OBJECTIVE
460 SQUADRON (RAAF) PILOTS AND CREWS
By John Watson
The objective of this document is to set out the achievements of 460 Squadron (RAAF) in such a manner that future enquirers may be able to read and appreciate what a courageous and worthy contribution was made by the aircrew of the Squadron, but at what a grievous cost in lives and suffering. Over 3000 aircrew were posted to the Squadron and of these, 990 were killed in action, a great number were wounded, and 220 were taken prisoner after being shot down, or were interned after being forced to crash-land their damaged aircraft in neutral territory. The Squadron was formed on 15th November 1941, and commenced bombing operations on 12th March 1942, flying 538 Wellington sorties from Breighton,Yorkshire. It commenced conversion to four-engined bombers in October 1942 and re-commenced bombing, with Lancasters, in November 1942. It moved to Binbrook, Lincolnshire in May 1943,and operated from there until hostilities ceased. The Squadron completed 5709 Lancaster sorties over Europe, and dropped 24,232 tons of bombs, which figures exceeded those of any other Bomber Command squadron. 460 Squadron personnel were awarded 363 ecorations.("Strike and Return" - Peter Firkins). The groundcrew, which was augmented by more than an equal number of RAF Members, achieved and maintained the highest levels of service- ability in Bomber Command during the Squadron's period of continuous Active Duty.
Even after allowing that it was a three flight Squadron for most of its Operational Service, it is obvious that only through inspiring leadership and the devotion of its air and ground crews, could 460 Squadron (RAAF) have achieved such a meritorious Record Of Service in such splendid company as Bomber Command.
John Watson
460 Squadron (RAAF) -
Pilots and Crews
by John Watson
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This page first produced 11 June 2000
This page last updated 19 February 2020
