3 Group Bomber Command: An Operational Record

Ward, Chris & Smith, Steve

ISBN 10: 1844157962 / ISBN 13: 9781844157969

Published by Pen & Sword Books, Barnsley, UK, 2008

About this Item

History of the Second World War incarnation of the Group which consisted of approximately eleven squadrons flying Wellingtons, Sterlings and then Lancasters. Includes numerous b/w photographs. 318pp.

Seller Inventory # B50542

Bibliographic Details

• Title: 3 Group Bomber Command: An Operational Record
• Publisher: Pen & Sword Books, Barnsley, UK
• Publication Date: 2008
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1844157962
• ISBN 13: 9781844157969
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition: 1st Edition
• Condition: Very Good
• Dust Jacket Condition: Very Good
• Weight: 850 grams
• Seller catalogs:
  • WW2: Unit Histories
  • WW2: Aircraft and Aerial Warfare

About this title

Synopsis

During the immediate period before World War Two, the RAF modified its command structure to rationalize for rapid expansion. Bomber Command was divided into six operational groups, each flying the same type of aircraft.

3 Group had almost completely re-equipped with the Wellington by 4 September 1939 to carry out the second bombing operation of the war which was against German warships off Brunsbüttel. In 1940 the first of the new four-engined bombers, the Short Stirling, came into service with the Group, being followed in 1942 by the Avro Lancaster. On 3rd/4th November 1943, No. 3 Group played a leading part in the first bombing attack in which heavy bombers made use of the radar bombing aid known as G-H. The target was Düsseldorf; bombs were dropped "blind" and good results were obtained. In July and August 1944, aircraft of this Group equipped with G-H maintained an all-weather attack against flying-bomb sites. Through the D-Day build-up, the liberation of France and conquest of Germany, formations of No. 3 Group attacked railway junctions, marshalling yards, troop concentrations, etc.

During the week ending 25th March 1945, Bomber Command made numerous attacks to prepare for the crossing of the Rhine.

About the Author

Chris Ward is a respected historian who has specialised in Bomber Command history, especially 5 Group, of which 617 was a member. He has had access to wartime records and ex-squadron personnel. He lives in Lutterworth, Leicestershire.