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Typhoon Warning,
by Robert Bailey
Late summer of 1944. A westbound German train just
north of the Ruhr, receives a warm welcome by Hawker Typhoons of 438
Squadron, RCAF. During this period, Allied fighters dominated the skies of
Europe, seeking targets. There was nothing more inviting for Typhoons than a
train carrying troops and munitions to the front. Such train always received
an immediate and devastating response from these heavily armed fighters,
flown by brave pilots who daily experienced heavy flak. This was
particularly dangerous to low-flying aircraft. However, Typhoons were used
to great effect, bringing the German war machine to a virtual standstill
with respect to movement of war material.
This particular train has just left a tunnel, but
at the wrong moment. Immediately spotted by the Typhoons, it is immobilized
first with bombs aimed at the track ahead and behind it, then with cannon
fire into the locomotive. In moments, the rail cars will be exploding and
ablaze.
Please note that this is likely the FINAL signing
with these Typhoon pilots, due to attrition.
THE
SIGNATURES:
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F/Lt.
Robert E. Spooner,
DFC, RCAF (whose aircraft is depicted)
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F/O
Robert C. Hayes, RCAF
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F/Lt.
Jack Hilton,
CD RCAF
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F/O
John Porter,
RCAF
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F/Lt.
James Hardy,
DFC, CD, RCAF
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F/O
Angus Scott,
RCAF
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F/Lt. Ivan Smith
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