Page 12 - Alan John Leslie Ridge

Avro Lancaster T-Tare2

There were two Lancaster’s that served with the squadron at both Elsham
Wolds and Fiskerton with this call sign. The first is JA 868 then PD 271.
Records indicate JA 868 was last flown operationally with 576 Squadron on
th
26 August 1944. The first Operation with PD271 was on the
th
29 August 1944.
No loss is shown of JA 868 so it is assumed this Lancaster was removed from
th
the squadrons Order of Battle after the operation on 26 August.
The picture shown was probably taken at Elsham Wolds as the back ground
indicates a summer’s day. The squadron moved to Fiskerton at the end of
October 1944.

The crew consisted of:

Pilot Officer J.H. Ridge - Pilot - R.A.F.V.R
Sergeant L.A. Payne - Flight Engineer - R.A.F.V.R
Sergeant G.W. Brinksworth - Air Bombardier - R.C.A.F
Flying Officer H. Jolly - Navigator - R.A.F.V.R
Flight Sergeant J.W. Roberts - Wireless Operator - R.A.A.F
Sergeant N.T. Shier - Mid Upper Gunner - R.A.F.V.R
Sergeant V.C. Mattocks - Rear Gunner - R.A.F.V.R