Sgt Ronald Thomas of 103 Sqn, Elsham Wolds took off on what was to be his final sortie sixty five years ago this evening. Sgt Thomas the rear gunner and the rest of the crew of Avro Lancaster ND572 PM-M had been briefed to attack Berlin as part of a force of 811 aircraft. At some stage ND572 was attacked by Fw 190 fighter, it was during this contact that Sgt Thomas was to loose his life. Although badly damaged, the aircraft managed to return to Dunsfold in Surrey. During the emergency landing it collided with a B17G Flying Fortress of the 452nd Bomb Group, USAF. Five of the crew members were to receive gallantry awards. Sgt Thomas was returned home and laid to rest in Chippenham Cemetery, Wiltshire. Sources: Bomber Command losses Vol 6 WR Chorley, The Berlin Raids, Martin Middlebrook.
