| Day: A major difference in tactics sees the introduction
of 'stepped' raids, with successive formations of aircraft at different
altitudes from low level fighter-bomber groups to high-level bombers at
24,000 ft. As one formation sets off so another builds up behind Calais,
and the raiders split off into feint attacks as they proceeded, making
interception most difficult at all levels and positions. Dover and Ramsgate
are attacked while Manston was put completely out of action. High-altitude
assault on the Thames Estuary. Hornchurch escapes major damage, but North
Weald is badly hit with damage to the station buildings the stores, two
of the messes and the married quarters. A similar multilevel force attacks
other Southern areas, including Southampton and Portsmouth. Airfields in
South East-Manston, Ramsgate, Hornchurch, North Weald. A heavy raid took
place on Portsmouth.
Night: At night, the heaviest force yet sent out heads for Rochester and Thameshaven, they then split into groups which range the country. East and the Central London are attacked successively with high explosive and incendiaries, causing widespread fires. At a quarter past midnight the first bomb since 1918 hits Central London. Widespread raids and minelaying. Losses: Luftwaffe 38: Fighter Command 22 Weather: Mainly fine in south with drizzle in north. |