AlbertTross

Sergent Simon 'Sid' Grace Escadrille C9 Epinal Caudron G4 2 confirmed victories 14th December 1915 The sorties continued throughout the middle of December with varying weather, ranging from cold sleet to relatively mild sun. Sid and Mondeme continued to complete the objectives with determination and skill. There were persistent attacks on the railyard across the lines from Nancy as there seemed to be a lot of freight heading west towards Verdun. On each occasion, Sid flew as low as possible and allowed Mondeme to drop the bombs accurately, causing considerable damage and delays to the flow of enemy troops and equipment. On the evening of the 18th, after a fine evening meal, Capitaine Larsy spoke to Sid and Mondeme. "Gentlemen, although I'd sooner not lose you at present, you are both due some leave. I'd sooner you take it sooner rather than later and you certainly deserve some. Arrange some over the coming days with the adjutant please." explained the Capitaine. "Oui Capitaine" confirmed both of them. Sid had been quite keen to carry on, but now that Capitaine Larsy had mentioned it, a few days in Paris sounded good. "Where will you go mon ami?" asked Sid. "I'll head down to St Etienne, go and see my family, especially if I can't be there at Christmas. What about you? You're welcome to come with me, my mère has plenty of room". replied Mondeme. "Thank you my friend, that's very kind of you, but I fancy a couple of days in Paris, my family are in England and I've not seen them since I joined the Légion." explained Sid. "That's too bad, but Paris will be fun. I'll come with you as far as Paris, I'll have to change trains there for St Etienne." confirmed Mondeme. The pair arranged 72 hour passes with the adjutant as well as transport and a hotel for Sid. They'd leave first thing on the 20th.

Albrecht - Well done to Jean-Fidele, 11 confirmed victories before 1916 is fine work indeed. More fine work is his paint scheme, the Germans will run a mile.

Seb - What an awful thing to happen to Cleaver, especially with everyone looking on. Runt is fortunate to have a lot of fine pilots around, Rod Dallas, Red Mullock and Noel Keeble. The sooner he is CO and can move Ackhart on the better.

Sergent Simon 'Sid' Grace Escadrille C9 Epinal Caudron G4 2 confirmed victories 01/12/1915 The rain continued to fall as December started and flying was cancelled for the day. Sid decided to speak to the ground crews about an idea he'd had to paint his aircraft. After checking they had some red, green and gold paints available. Thankfully they did and he gave them the design and left them to it. A few hours later and all was done, although it took a lot longer to dry thanks to the awful weather. The weather improved enough to allow flying on the 2nd although the skies remained grey with occasional spatters of rain. The sorties were still one a day at present as the front was relatively quiet, although the local French headquarters were always keen to keep the enemy on their toes. An attack on the front lines was followed by attacks on the airfield at Buhl-Lorraine in improving weather, alongside the routine reconnaissance patrols. On one of them, the Caudrons were escorted by a trio of Nieuport scouts from Escadrille N48. Sid watched them zooming around and was more than a bit envious. He was determined to get himself into a scout escadrille sooner rather than later. Sid hadn't seen any enemy aircraft for some time now although the increasing and accurate flak bursts were more than enough to contend with. On the evening of the 8th, Capitaine Larsy called Sid to his office. Sid entered and saluted, Larsy responded. "Please Sergent, take a seat." "Thank you Capitaine" responded Sid as he sat. "So, how are you mon ami? Glad to be back in the air I assume." asked Larsy. "I'm very good thank you Capitaine and yes, it's good to be able to take the attack to the Boche again." replied Sid. "Indeed and you've been doing plenty of that since your arrival. I never really had any doubts about your determination Sergent, three years in the Légion Étrangère proves that, but I obviously didn't know about your abilities until you started flying. I clearly needn't have worried on either account." smiled Larsy. "Thank you sir for those words. I was taught well, but yes, I'm very determined to do well." replied Sid. "Well, headquarters are very impressed, those two confirmed victories, especially in this quiet sector...that was really something." continued Larsy. "Keep it up Sergent, I see great things ahead for you if you can mon Ami." concluded the Capitaine. "Thank you sir, I fully intend to....." said Sid.

Hasse - That was a nasty blow learning of Schlumberger and Montezuma. Those early SPADs were not great although you can see where their later development would end up. Mfair - I'm glad to see Gallagher survived the hit and run attack, especially as he's the sole survivor from when he joined.

Sergent Simon 'Sid' Grace Escadrille C9 Epinal Caudron G4 22nd November 1915 1 confirmed victory Simon, Mondeme and de Tonnac sat in the mess enjoying a glass of champagne. The celebrations following Simon and Mondeme's victory over the Aviatik had been long and the trio were rather the worse for wear. Capitaine Larsy had been good enough to buy several bottles of fine vintage for the pilots and Artilleurs. "So Simon, in your time in the Légion, did you have an.....anon....anony....ano...anonymat!" asked Mondeme rather slurringly. "Yes mon ami, I was Sid Charles." said Simon slowly. "Seed?" said Mondeme. Simon burst out laughing, "Sid, S. I. D. not Seed." replied Simon. "Ahh, Sid (it still sounded like he was saying seed). I think that should be your surnom!" said Mondeme. De Tonnac nodded his agreement and the three poured another drink. Eventually the three retired for the evening. The following day's sorties were straightforward, as much as attacks on enemy positions can be. A particular success was an attack on a newly built enemy camp on the edge of the front lines. The Germans had tried to conceal the camp using the hillside and trees but the Caudrons of C9 found it. A large attack was ordered by headquarters and although getting the bombs on target was hard, Simon and Mondeme did so with great effect. Capitaine Larsy commended the pair in the mission report to HQ. On 28th, a trio of Caudrons had been sent to attack the enemy railyard across the lines from Nancy. The attack went well although the aircraft became rather separated. As they made their way back Simon and Mondeme were some way behind the other two Caudrons and working to catch up. As they neared the lines, Simon saw two black dots above the other two Caudrons. The dots then descended down towards his comrades. The two Caudrons started switching and turning, clearly they were under attack. Simon raced towards them. As he approached he saw they were being attacked by a pair of Eindeckers. Simon raced towards the nearest attacker who was going after Sergent Gilles Villars' aircraft. Mondeme let rip with a burst from maximum range but it did the trick. The Eindecker dived and ran for home. Simon now went after the remaining Eindecker who was now chasing Capitaine Larsy. The Capitaine pulled the Eindecker further and further into French territory although the Eindecker seemed to be gaining on Larsy's aircraft. Larsy realised he was being caught and turned back towards Simon. The Eindecker came with him and Simon swung around and up towards the enemy aircraft as it passed. Mondeme poured bullets into the boche, seemingly taking the German by complete surprise. Simon now levelled out behind him and Mondeme hit him again. The Fokker slipped into a spiralling fall from which he didn't recover. The enemy aircraft smashed into the trees and exploded. Simon took a big breath and patted Mondeme on the back. The trio of Caudrons formed back up and made their way home. On landing, Capitaine Larsy made his way over to Simon and Mondeme. "Sergent, firstly thank you for coming to my aid. Secondly, that was some of the best flying I've seen in this war! I didn't think a Caudron could be flown like that!" said Larsy. "You're welcome mon Capitaine, I'm just glad I was able to get to you in time. Mondeme here was never going to miss." said Simon modestly, putting his arm on Mondeme's shoulder. "Well I can certainly confirm that victory for you both....two victories within three weeks! You're making names for yourselves mes amies." confirmed Larsy. More celebrations followed that evening and sorties continued until 30th November when the weather closed in again, making flying impossible. Simon and Mondeme were grateful of the day off.

Seb - An excellent tale with the squadron taking a real battering from those Aviatiks, if you get caught in the cross-fire you are in serious trouble. Arthur and Williams paid the ultimate price. Thankfully Runt and the CO survived. Hopefully his claim is confirmed. Paroni - If you press 'W' having dropped your bombs your view switches to 'bomb' view and you follow them down. You can also zoom in and out. If you pause it as they hit the ground you can catch some good pictures of the explosion/damage.

Paroni - That's a real shame about Henri he was doing well. It only takes a bullet, no matter how good he is.

Sergent Simon Grace Escadrille C9 Epinal Caudron G4 12th November 1915 Having finally arrived at Epinal, shook the rain from his cape and introduced himself to the adjutant on the desk, Simon was taken into see the CO Capitaine Victor Larsy. Capitaine Larsy was a relatively small but swarthy looking man from Gap, in the Hautes Alpes. He was 28 and had been a Chasseurs Alpin before the war when he joined the French Air Service. Simon saluted and the Capitaine responded, "Bonjour Sergent, how was your trip?" asked Larsy. "Not too bad thank you sir. Despite the weather." responded Simon. "Ahh this is normal for Epinal Sergent, but don't worry, we will still be flying, as long as it doesn't get much worse." said Larsy, who now perused Simon's papers. "Ahh you're English! Your french is very good. You were a member of the Légion Étrangère I see. Well, you must have had your reasons. Marseille, Casablanca and Algiers, so you have travelled Sergent and clearly you did well, as your promotions show." said the Capitaine. "How did you end up in the Air Service?" asked Larsy. "Well sir, as you say, I was stationed in Algiers and other than sentry duty there was little to do. I've always took an interest in aviation and machines, so I decided to apply. Thankfully I was successful." explained Simon. "Your training record is good, and I can hardly question your allegiances after three years in the Legion" Larsy smiled as he spoke. "Thank you mon Capitaine. I will not let you down." said Simon. "I'm sure you won't Sergent Grace. Well go and get yourself sorted in your billet and get some refreshment. We have a sortie this afternoon which you can take part in. Before that I will introduce you to the other men, including your Artilleur." concluded the Capitaine. "Yes sir, thank you." responded Simon. "One last thing, what was your 'anonymat'? May I ask?" asked the Capitaine. "Sid Charles, mon Capitaine, but I was able to use my own name after a year" said Simon. "Ahh, bon. See you in a short while Sergent" finished Larsy. After sorting himself out in his very basic dwelling and getting some lunch, he made his way over to the briefing room. Capitaine Larsy introduced Simon to the others. If there was some hesitation, Capitaine Larsy cut through it, "Sergent Grace has spent three years in the Légion Étrangère and attained his current rank some while ago, I think that should tell you all you need to know about his loyalty to France." One by one the others said hello. Simon was introduced to his artilleur, Adjutant Isaac Mondeme. Mondeme was 27 and from St Etienne. After the introductions, the Capitaine went through the afternoon's planned sortie. Four Caudrons were to make their way north east to the lines east of Luneville and attack them. Larsy encouraged Simon to take note of local landmarks, such as the Ëtang Mansuy to the west. A short while later Simon was throttling up the pair of Gnome Rhone engines on his Caudron and heading down the airfield. The weather was not great, steady rain fell and huge clouds abound as he took off. They headed off north east after forming up and climbing and having reached the lines. Simon set the Caudron up on course for Mondeme to drop the bombs. They hit their targets with a loud and powerful roar and after forming back up, they headed home. Over the next few days Simon took part in similar sorties, recons, bombing runs and artillery spotting and got used to the landscape around about. Mondeme was an excellent bomb aimer and the pair did considerable damage to the enemy railyard across the lines and an army camp further east. The pair got on well, spending time in the evening in the mess. Mondeme had been in the infantry and served on the Marne in 1914 before transferring to the air service in early 1915. The weather continued to worsen and by the 17th, flying was impossible. This remained the case until the 20th. Mondeme and Simon took advantage and arranged a pass for the day on the 19th. They travelled the short distance into Epinal itself. The town was full of military personnel and the pair struggled to find somewhere with room to eat. They eventually found somewhere that Mondeme knew about. The pair talked about their pasts and travels. Mondeme had been to London as a child and had spent time in Marseille, so the pair talked about the centre of Marseille which both knew well. They returned later that night, rather the worse for wear, but as there was no flying on the 20th they were able to sleep it off. The weather cleared enough for flying to resume on the 21st and the pair completed an early morning recon of the lines. As they returned, Simon spotted something off to his left. There it was again, white against the dark brown of the cratered front. He headed over there and saw what it was, a trio of enemy Aviatiks swarming around the French lines. Simon shouted to Mondeme to get himself ready and he came up behind and beneath the enemy aircraft. Mondeme chose the rightmost of the trio and put several good bursts into him. The Aviatik swung away to the right, separating itself from the others. Simon swung around after it and closed in again. Mondeme fired again and the Aviatik wobbled. A stream of smoke started pouring out of the boche aircraft. Suddenly it burst into flames and rolled over, heading straight down into the ground near the lines. The other two Aviatiks had ran and Simon let them go. Another Caudron appeared, Sergent Henryk de Tonnac waved at Simon, and gave a thumbs up. On landing Simon and Mondeme were warmly congratulated on their victory which de Tonnac was happy to confirm. If there had been any ice towards their 'Rôti de bœuf' the downing of the enemy aircraft well and truly melted it and a celebration was held in the mess that evening. It had been an action packed ten days for Simon and Capitaine Larsy was impressed.

Paroni - I'm very glad Henri survived his clash with the Eindeckers even if damage was considerable. Seb - Runt needs to forget about Monique and concentrate on his flying, the last thing we want is for him to pay the ultimate price for having ties to the ground, but I do agree with Paroni.....she's a looker.

Introducing..... Sergent Simon Charles Grace, he's actually an Englishman, born in Liverpool in 1892. After High School he learns mechanics and works at a car workshop. He is all set to join the Royal Engineers in 1910 but is caught up in a stink when he is suspected of voicing support for Irish home rule. His joining up is cancelled and he is ostracised from his job. He ends up travelling Europe, spending time in Amsterdam, Köln and Paris before ending up in Marseille in 1912. Whilst there he meets up and befriends an American and both decide to join the French Foreign Legion. He serves in Africa through 1913 and into 1914 reaching the rank of Caporal. When the war starts, his company is sent to Algiers. He is a good soldier and is made Sergent in January 1915. In March 1915 he applies to join the Service Aéronautique and is accepted. After training he is assigned to Escadrille C9, flying the Caudron G4 joining on 12th November 1915. This is his story...........

Congratulations to the award winners, very well deserved. I'll be starting a new chap shortly.

Vizeflugmeister Leopold Doll Marine Kampfeinsitzerkommando Nieuwmunster airfield Eindecker EI 1 confirmed victory 7th November 1915 Leopold woke to hear the rain on the window of his quarters. It wasn't enough to cancel flying though and after breakfast he and Leutnant Kagelmann undetook a sortie down towards Passchendaele. The thick clouds made visibility awful as they gained height and headed southwards. They'd reached about halfway when suddenly, bullets ripped into Leo's wing. He instinctively rolled and saw two Nieuports tearing out of a cloud formation towards him. He pulled the tightest turn and fired at one of his attackers as it flew by. The other Nieuport went after Kagelmann and Leo went to help. Just as he managed to swat away the attacker, bullets hit from the other Nieuport. Leo's controls went limp, several wires had been cut. The Eindecker spiralled down. There was nothing he could do......the ground grew nearer........

Raine - It was a shame as Kenneth must have been due to get a Fee soon. As it is, Leo has an Eindecker EI, there also seem to be a lot of Nieuports about already in the north of Flanders, so it is going to be very tough. As for Hawkwood, a change of scene for him with his move but it seems to be tough going wherever they are, especially for Observers it seems. Paroni - Henri keeps battling away. Those C types are no pushovers but at least it was the aircraft getting hit. It's all about positioning, staying below the tail and popping up to get some shots in, but not too much. Albrecht - Yes firing from the Nupes takes practice, but if you can master it I'd sooner fly the Lewis armed N17 then the early synchronised one with it's "putt, putt, putt" rate of fire.

Vizeflugmeister Leopold Doll Marine Kampfeinsitzerkommando Nieuwmunster airfield Fokker EI 4th November 1915 There was only so much map reading anyone can do and Leo spent a few hours in the kasino in the evening of the 3rd. He, Pretzner and Karl Horn seemingly putting the world to rights over a beer and a schnapps. Horn was only 19 and from Sande near Wilhelmshaven and was full of youthful exuberance and vigour. He argued with the more stoic and pragmatic Pretzner about the direction of the war. Leo, used to barrack room politics from his time on board ships, listened to them both. Although the rain had stopped overnight, there was no chance of flying in the morning of the 4th. The ground crews worked ceaselessly to get the airfield usable in time for the afternoon and just about managed it. This was fortunate as the airfield alarm sounded and nearby flak began to open up. The Fokkers were started up and Leo jumped into his. He looked upwards and saw several aircraft high above the airfield. As he climbed away he glanced upwards again and saw enemy scouts hurtling down. Pretzner and Huhne were also airborne as the Nieuports arrived. Leo dodged the attack and swung around to try to get after one of his attackers. A glancing shot was all that was possible but Leo got hits. One of the Nieuports went after Huhne and Pretzner went to help. Leo found himself with two enemy scouts after him. He flew skillfully and kept them at bay. He got a bead on one as it flew past and fired an accurate burst into him. The Frenchman rolled away and ran for home. Leo left him and stayed with his other assailant. The Frenchman was skilled and worked to stay above Leo, who kept the stick to his chest and pulled as tight a turn as possible. All this was taking place well into German territory and eventually the Frenchman's nerve broke and he tried to run. Leo saw his chance and took it, he had to be quick as the Nieuport pulled away. He fired a good burst which hit the Nieuport hard. The Frenchman turned about and came at Leo. Leo fired into the enemy and stayed with him as it tried to climb away. The Nieuport's engine faltered and he lost power and height. Leo looked below him as the floundering Nieuport wobbled and then fell into the trees south east of Oostende. The third Nieuport had ran, so Leo set himself up to land. Pretzner had already set down, Huhne had fallen however. A flaming pile was ablaze in the next field, marking where his Fokker had smashed into the ground. On landing Pretzner came across to congratulate Leo. "Gut gemacht! Du hast ihn erwischt!" exclaimed Pretzner as he reached Leo. "Danke meine freund. I'm glad you got back down ok" said Leo. Leo's claim was a formality, the whole airfield had seen him down his foe. Huhne was done for, his body was recovered later in the evening. The bad news about Huhne did not deter the others celebrating Leo's success in the Kasino later. Leutnant Kagelmann led the goings-on and presented Leo with an Ehrenbecker commemorating his first victory. On the morning of the 5th, Huhne was buried in the field next to the main office. He was only 19 and from Baiersbronn in the Black Forest. The next couple of days passed quietly enough. The weather held and the sorties passed without incident.

Paroni - Henri too is getting to grips with his new mount. Congratulations on his first confirmed victory. Albrecht - Enjoyable reading! Jean-Fidelle's tales are like 'boys own' stuff and the pictures make it even more so. That landing with only the top wing left must have been terrifying. 8 confirmed victories already, I think a visit is in order.

Vizeflugmeister Leopold Bertram Doll Marine Kampfeinsitzerkommando Nieuwmunster airfield Flanders 30th October 1915 - 6pm Leo alighted the car he'd been travelling in from Brussels. The car pulled away and left him standing in front of the main building at the airfield. The weather was not good, wind and rain whipped his overcoat lapels, but he'd been in northern Flanders for 12 months now and was used to it's weather. He entered the building and approached the adjutant, Feldwebel Richter. "Good evening Vizeflugmeister, wait here please and I'll see if the CO can see you now." said Richter. He entered the office behind him before reappearing and announcing "Leutnant Kagelmann will see you now". Leo entered the office and saluted. Leutnant Kagelmann responded. "At ease Vizeflugmeister" he said. Leutnant-zur-See Georg Kagelmann was 25 and from Bad Iburg. He'd been with the Marine Feldfliegers since 1913 and was very well thought of. Kagelmann perused Leo's papers. "6 years in the navy eh? What made you join the fliegers?" he asked. "I was just sitting around Herr Leutnant, it's not what I wanted when I joined up. Aircraft have always interested me and memos had come around asking for volunteers for the Marine Feldfliegers." replied Leo. "Interesting, it beats being a submariner...eh Vizeflugmeister." said Kagelmann. "Indeed Herr Leutnant." said Leo. "I see you spent time at the Fokkerschule at Schwerin. Excellent." continued Kagelmann. "Yes Herr Leutnant, I managed several hours in Fokker types, I'm well aware of their capabilities." "Glad to hear it, we have eight Fokker Eindeckers in our inventory and with you we now have six pilots. Our role is to protect our forces in the area from enemy incursions and to protect our two seaters." stated Kagelmann. "We have strict instructions.....in fact....orders, not to cross the lines. You should bear that in mind if you should find yourself chasing an enemy aircraft Vizeflugmeister." he continued. "Aye aye sir" confirmed Leo. "Good. Now, go and get yourself sorted, see the adjutant. We'll be having food shortly so you can join us and I can introduce you to your fellow pilots." confirmed Kagelmann. Once Leo was settled in his quarters he went through to the kasino and had a very reasonable dinner with the others. After dinner he had a few drinks with them and seemed to get on well. Flugmeister Eduard Pretzner was particularly good company. He was 25 and from Neuhofen near Mannheim. The following morning, Leo woke bright and early. The previous evening had been enjoyable but he'd kept it in check. After breakfast he sat in the meeting room with the other pilots. Leutnant Kagelmann went through the general situation, the allied attack to the south had slowed but probes were still occuring. Activity here in the north had been consistent with enemy raids on various installations on a regular basis. He confirmed that this morning's sortie would be to cover the Roulers railyard. Kagelmann would lead with Leo and Oberflugmaat Kurt Brand with him. The weather was still not good at all, but as Kagelmann had put it, "this is the channel coast, if we stopped flying due to inclement weather, we'd never be in the air". Leo sat in his Fokker EI as the engine heated up. Shortly after, they headed off and climbed up to 7000 feet. They reached Roulers and patrolled around. They saw nothing and landed safely an hour later. Another sortie in the afternoon took Leo down to the lines to the north of the Ypres salient, again it passed quietly enough although the weather made visibility poor at best. The following days went similarly, the weather did not improve and the low lying land was taking a battering. On the 2nd of November, Leo, Kagelmann and Pretzner were on a patrol of the lines south of Nieuwpoort. The weather was still woeful but they climbed above the rain clouds and proceeded west. As they approached the front Leo saw something over to the right, it was above them and flak bursts told him it was probably enemy. The 80hp engined Eindecker climbed slowly, even more so in the buffeting wind. He was catching the aircraft up though, now visible as a BE2. The Englander ran once he'd seen the Fokkers but Leo kept after him. He eventually got within range but the wind made accurate aiming impossible. He still managed to get some good bursts away but increasing flak told him he'd crossed the lines. He reluctantly turned and flew back. He landed safely and Leutnant Kagelmann spoke to him shortly afterwards. "You did well out there Vizeflugmeister, it was virtually impossible to get at that Englander before it crossed the lines but you did it. In better weather, who knows maybe you would have got him. Either way, your determination does you credit. You also followed orders by turning back once across the lines. I know that was tough but you did it." said Kagelmann. "Thank you Herr Leutnant. Yes I'd have got him but for the winds. There'll be other occasions." said Leo philosophically. Two more sorties took place on the 2nd November but the airfield was becoming completely waterlogged. It came as no surprise when operations were cancelled for the 3rd, Leo spent most of the day map reading and talking with Flugmeister Pretzner and Oberflugmaat Brand.

Mfair - A courageous attack on Bertancourt but then some awful news about Captain Goon. Hasse - Good to see your fellow getting to grips with the Nieuport. Seb - That Ackhart seems a right little charmer, moving in on Monique. Runt took it out on his liver in response. It didn't make any difference in the air it seems, some excellent maneuvers against those Fokkers. That Davies is a brave chap. Introducing............. Vizeflugmeister Leopold Bertram Doll, he's 24 and from Krefeld in the Ruhr. After school and a short period working in his father's tailoring business, he joined the navy. He serves on several vessels but once the war started and the Belgian coast captured he was posted to admin duties in Knokke-Heist. This inactivity didn't last long as he applied for pilot training in early 1915 and was accepted. He takes to flying like the proverbial duck to water. He is sent to Schwerin in September to learn rotary engine flying with the Fokker company. He is then ordered to the Marine Feldfliegers at Nieuwmunster. This is his story..........

It was certainly an unpleasant surprise. With the ground fire set to hard and the Archie mod active I guess it's bound to happen sooner or later. I've a new pilot lined up and waiting for the go ahead from the chaps in charge.

Damn....and it was going well too. Sergeant Kenneth Hardie 6 Squadron RFC Abeele airfield BE2C 1 confirmed victory 1st November 1915 Major Shephard took the briefing and explained that the mission today would be an attack on Phalempin airfield. The weather was good as Kenneth cranked up the throttle and the BE rumbled across the airfield. The journey went quietly until they crossed the lines. From that moment on the flak grew thicker and thicker. Kenneth's BE was thrown about the sky as the bursts threw metal everywhere. Just as they approached Phalempin and Kenneth was about to nose down on the bombing run, something blew directly in front of him. Wood and metal flew around and Kenneth buckled as he took the full brunt. He was groggy and blooded and as he tried to get control of the aircraft again he realised he couldn't. The wires were wrecked and the stricken BE began a spiralling fall. As the ground grew nearer, Kenneth kicked the rudder to try and level out and it worked a little but the aircraft nosed into the ground and skidded to a halt. Kenneth was out cold as flames burst out around them........he felt nothing anymore.......

Raine - Yes I've been to Fort William myself a couple of times, lovely place, with one of the best whisky shops I've frequented. Sergeant Kenneth Hardie 6 Squadron RFC Abeele airfield BE2C 1 confirmed victory 25th October 1915 After the previous evening's celebrations for Kenneth and Barnard's confirmed victory, Kenneth awoke with a raging thirst and a bursting bladder. After relieving both and breathing some early morning fresh air, he at least felt brighter. A thick bacon butty and two steaming cups of tea completed the recovery. The sorties were still one a day and included reconnaissance, bombings and spotting. Targets ranged from Lille, Lens and Douai in the south upto Ghistelles in the north. The flak was booming throughout. However it wasn't just the enemy causing the problems. On the 28th, Kenneth and Barnard had taken off and reached about 300 feet when a loud bang was heard in the engine and then a thick oily steam came billowing out. The revs halved straight away and continued dropping. Kenneth kept his cool, shut the engine down and dipped the nose slightly to keep her from stalling. As per his training, he didn't try to turn back towards the airfield and instead looked for the best field ahead to land in. The one directly in front had a thick fence through the middle of it so Kenneth aimed for the one behind but the BE was dropping steadily. There was virtually inches to spare as the wheels just cleared the far hedge and the aircraft landed with a thump. The pair shook themselves down and awaited the squadron lorry to arrive and roughly 20 minutes later it did. It turned out one of the oil filters had ruptured and the aircraft was ready for the next day's work. On the 31st October, Kenneth was part of a quintumvirate of aircraft sent to attack the lines south of the Ypres salient. The weather had turned, wind and rain swept the bombers, however the attack went well. As they turned to form back up, Captain Barnard shouted and pointed to the left. Kenneth looked as directed and saw a gaggle of enemy Aviatiks approaching, having come out of a thick bank of clouds. The enemy had height and as they flew passed Kenneth, machine guns raked Kenneth's aircraft. He instinctively rolled beneath his attackers and the Aviatiks ran for the lines. There was no serious damage done and Kenneth flew home and landed safely. He inspected the holes in the wing from the bullets as he dismounted. Barnard was livid, "Those damn Boche! That was pure chance put us in front of them! If we'd had a Fee I'd have given them it back with interest!", he exclaimed. "At least we got back in one piece." said Kenneth calmly. It had been a busy and eventful first month for Kenneth but he'd aquitted himself very well. Major Shephard was very happy with his performance.

Albrecht - So Jean-Fidelle has his hands on a new Nieuport and has brought his total to three, I see a bright future if he can stay with us....and a kiss on the cheek from a French officer in the offing too Mfair - I do hope so, these BE's are fun but give me a Fee any day of the week. Raine - So David's squadron is suffering some attritional losses, inevitable with these cumbersome machines. Poor Lieutenant Bliss though, how does the CO even begin to write that letter home.

Sergeant Kenneth Andrew Hardie 6 Squadron RFC Abeele airfield BE2c 15/10/1915 Two sorties took place on the 15th and Kenneth flew both. On the first, the squadron attacked Lens railyard. The weather was good although large clouds made visibility hit and miss. Thankfully, as Kenneth descended down towards the railyard, the clouds cleared enough for Captain Barnard to drop his coopers right onto the massed rolling stock. The afternoon sortie was a routine recce over the lines at Ypres. It was passing quietly until Barnard rapped Kenneth on the head and pointed down. Kenneth saw four enemy Aviatiks a few hundred feet below. Captain Barnard pointed towards Kenneth and down towards the enemy aircraft and Kenneth got the message clearly. He throttled back and swung the BE around and down towards the Huns. He came up behind one of them and ducked underneath, slowing to a crawl and started swinging the rudder. Barnard started firing at the Aviatik and scored several good hits. The BE was on the edge of stalling so Kenneth throttled up again. The group of four Aviatiks broke up and Kenneth came around again underneath his target. Holding his position with skill. Barnard fired again and the Aviatik began to lose power and height. The enemy aircraft was trying to make it back towards Houplin airfield. Kenneth and Barnard watched as the engineless enemy landed in the field next to the airfield. Once they'd returned and reported in, Major Shephard asked if they wished to file a claim. Barnard said no, the aircraft had landed safely, in one piece and next the airfield. It would probably be airborne again tomorrow. On the 16th, the weather closed in, and flying was obviously going to be impossible. All reports stated the 17th was going to be a wash out too. Kenneth, Jem Barnes and Randy Wimund asked the CO if they could have some leave in St Omer. The squadron had been flying non-stop for two weeks so the CO agreed and had the adjutant, Reid, issue the Sergeants with a 24 hour pass. The men hitched a ride with the squadron supply wagon to St Omer. The town was bustling and full of troops. They ended up in Le Cygne, a hotel and restaurant in the center. The bar was full, men, women, English and French, pilots, soldiers and nurses. The three Sergeants were popular it seemed with the ladies, "The lassies love a pilot" stated Barnes. Kenneth's blonde hair and blue eyes drew several looks but it was Randy Wimund who was the center of attention. His north american accent had the local ladies in awe. The three pilots enjoyed themselves although the rain never ceased. Eventually the leave was over and the three Sergeants made their way back to Abeele. The 18th was still a washout and Kenneth spent a lot of it in conversation with Captain Barnard. "If we meet up with those Aviatiks again this is how we should play it......." said the Captain and together they worked out the best way to bring one down. The weather relented on the 19th and the sorties began again in earnest, although with the offensive stalling down to a standstill, only one sortie a day was needed for the next week or so. More recces and attacks on the front line positions, airfields and railyards were accomplished without loss and Kenneth continued to show his prowess and skills. Then on the 24th, Kenneth and Barnard were sent to attack the railyard at Lens once more, together with the rest of the squadron. The bombs landed where they were intended and did considerable damage. On their way back Kenneth spotted more aircraft coming towards them from across the lines. It was a foursome of Aviatiks again and again Kenneth was a few hundred feet above. He swung his bird around and down and throttled right back. He moved towards the leftmost aircraft and used the last of his excess speed to slide underneath. Barnard raked the Aviatik with bullets as Kenneth skillfully used the throttle to maintain his position. Kenneth them came around once more as the Aviatik lost height. Kenneth now parked above and to the left of the Aviatik so that Barnard could fire again. He blasted the Hun who now side slipped to the right and descended down. This time Kenneth watched as the stricken enemy aircraft crashed into the trees on the edge of a field. Barnard let out a whoop of delight. The other three Aviatiks had ran so Kenneth formed back up with the other BE2s and they headed home. Once they were back all talk was of their victory. Randy Wimund was able to confirm he'd seen the Aviatik fall and Major Shephard confirmed the victory. A celebration was held that evening in the Officer's Mess with the Sergeants in attendance and Kenneth was congratulated by one and all. The next morning, just prior to the morning briefing, Kenneth was passing the briefing room when he heard voices. Major Shephard was in conversation with Captain Barnard. Kenneth couldn't help but overhear. "Take it from me Shep he's a natural, the way he coaxes that cumbersome BE around. If he had a Fee, now that would be something. We could really take the attack to the enemy." said Barnard. "Every squadron out here is after FE2b's Charles. Can you imagine the stink if I let one of our Sergeants have one!" said Shephard. "Then make him a Lieutenant for god's sake! He's been a Sergeant since February." added Barnard. "Well, time will tell on that one Charles. Careful what you wish for." finished Major Shephard.

End of month stats Sergeant Kenneth Andrew Hardie 6 Squadron RFC Abeele airfield BE2c 22 missions 28 hours No claims

Sergeant Kenneth Hardie 6 Squadron RFC Abeele airfield BE2c 02/10/1915 Kenneth arose sheepishly, moved towards the entrance to his tent and opened it up. He was greeted with a glorious sunrise and virtually cloudless blue skies. "That's more like it!" he said to no-one in particular. Following breakfast, Major Shephard took a briefing and explained that the allied offensive around Loos and Vimy Ridge was continuing and all our efforts would be supporting the push. To that end, the squadron would be mounting multiple sorties per day. This morning's jaunt would be to the lines near Ypres to recon the enemy positions and spot any attempt to move forces from there down towards Loos. Kenneth could feel the adrenaline building as he sat in his BE2c as the engine ticked over. Captain Barnard loaded up his Lewis gun and put the spare drums away. A few moments later they were airborne and climbing away. Two Fees, two other BE2s and a Bristol Scout made up the rest of the flight. As they climbed and moved away, Kenneth saw straight away that the BE simply couldn't keep up with the Fees and Scout who fairly raced away. Kenneth formed up with the other BE2s flown by Sergeants Wimund and Barnes. It was a glorious autumn morning and yesterday's rain had cleared the air, so visibility was excellent. The front loomed up ahead of Kenneth as he reached 8000 feet. Flak bursts told Kenneth he'd reached the lines and Captain Barnard started getting his camera ready. The recon went well, eventually Captain Barnard signalled for Kenneth to take the aircraft down. He pointed down towards the ground and Kenneth looked over the side. He caught sight of a long convoy of lorries moving towards the enemy positions. Captain Barnard got his Cooper bombs ready. Kenneth swung the BE around and levelled out along the road. Flak was booming all around but he held his nerve. Barnard threw the bombs down at regular intervals and Kenneth swung the aircraft so the results could be seen. They clearly saw several of the enemy transports in flames and some had come off the road. Kenneth climbed back up and formed up with the others. The Fees had also closed in and together they headed home. Over the next days, Kenneth flew similar sorties, recons around Loos, attacks on Lens railyard and Houplin airfield as well as attacks on the enemy lines themselves. Barnard was clearly an old hand and didn't bat an eyelid at the flak bursts their exploits brought. If he was nervous, Kenneth got used to them too. On one occasion Barnard tapped Kenneth on the head and pointed directly up. Kenneth looked up and saw three enemy aircraft some way above them. They were Aviatiks thankfully, not Eindeckers. With two sorties each day, Kenneth was tired by the evening but spent time in the Sergeant's Mess. He got on well with all of them but particularly with Jem Barnes. The two Scots talked endlessly about their respective areas. Jem had worked on Aberdeen docks prewar and was an avid climber. With Kenneth coming from Fort William he obviously had an interest in the mountains too. The pair promised to meet up after the war and spend time amongst the Monros. By the middle of the second week in October the weather had changed again. Winds and rain made the sorties far more trying. Kenneth however took it all in his stride. He and Barnard were proving a formidable partnership with the Observer's experience coupled with Kenneth's flying skills. Major Shephard was very pleased with Kenneth's performance over those first two weeks. By 15th October, Kenneth already had more than 20 sorties and 25+ hours in the logbook and was hungry for more.