Signatures
Please note that this is likely the FINAL signing with these Typhoon pilots, due to attrition.
- F/Lt. Robert E. Spooner, DFC, RCAF (whose aircraft is depicted)
- F/O Robert C. Hayes, RCAF
- F/Lt. Jack Hilton, CD RCAF
- F/O John Porter, RCAF
- F/Lt. James Hardy, DFC, CD, RCAF
- F/O Angus Scott, RCAF
- F/Lt. Ivan Smith
- F/Lt. Fred H. Sproule, RCAF (signed A/P's and Remarques)
The Story
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
