Albert "Mushroom" Ward, RFC-56, Baizieux

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• published: 27 Jan 2016
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24 Jan 1918 @ 08h05 Bomb Briastre aerodrome south of Couroir The briefing today indicated we would have scattered cumulous from 2000 to 9000 ft with winds of 8 kn from the north. I lead “B” flight composed of Duston on wing and Parry. McCudden flew for “A” flight providing top cover. Our flight to Bapaume on the first leg was very quiet and we maintained an altitude of 9100 ft. Crossing the lines we began to experience some flak, which became increasingly intense as we made our way to Bertry East/West Aerodrome. Arriving there I noted three enemy 2 seaters coming in to land and 7 scouts on the ground. We promptly turned NE descending to 3500 ft. to get out of the flak and prepare ourselves for the coming attack. We skirted Neuvilly aerodrome which looked quiet with no aircraft on the ground. Shortly later we approached Briastre and loosed our loads quite successfully taking out a hanger and many storage sheds and huts. Flak was intense here as well and I quickly sent the signal to return to base. On the way back I diverted slightly from our intended path in order to scout out the conditions at Boistrancourt aerodrome. Things seemed quiet there but they sent us a note that we were not welcome, in the form of more flak. We experienced many close calls with flak on this mission and I was not in any hurry to repeat it. We climbed well above 9000 ft., crossed the lines and made our way back to Baizieux safely with no injuries, losses or damage to our kites. We made our way to the RO and gave our reports, then headed to the mess for some breaky!