Google Earth Community: World War II - First German aircraft to crash land

World War II - First German aircraft to crash land on British Soil

On 28th October 1939, 602 (City of Glasgow) and 603 (City of Edinburgh) Squadrons together brought down the first enemy aircraft of World War II to crash on British soil, a Heinkel HE 111 which force landed only 10 miles from Drem beside the village of Gifford

This first "kill" is officially credited to Flight Lieutenant Archibald Ashmore McKellar DSO DFC and Bar

McKeller of No. 602 (City of Glasgow) Squadron based at nearby RAF Drem attacked the Heinkel He-111. After he had caused it considerable damage, he was then interrupted by the arrival of three Spitfires from No. 603 (City of Edinburgh) Squadron. Although argument rages to this day as to which squadron let alone pilot was the victor, the 'kill' was credited to McKellar. The day's efforts were a kill each for 602 and 603 Squadrons and the first victories for the Supermarine Spitfire in combat.

Air Chief Marshall Sir Hugh Dowding, Commander-in-Chief Fighter Command sent the following message to both squadrons the next day: "Well done. First blood to the Auxiliaries"

The shooting down of the "Humbie Heinkel" HE111 by John Spencer-Churchill, nephew of Sir Winston. Jonnie was visiting Lady Tweedale at Yester house in Gifford when he witnessed 602 and 603 Squadrons attacking the German bomber which came down five miles away in the foothills of the Lammermuirs.

Story and Photo credits
http://www.vord.net/609/drem.htm
http://www.eastlothianatwar.co.uk/drem.html

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Edited by carmedic (02/02/08 10:06 PM)