This is a detail from a recently purchased photograph which may help to identify the individual aircraft and Squadron. There are no serial numbers or Squadron codes visible in the photograph. However, this aircraft appears to have taken part in 57 missions over enemy territory, two of which are symbolised by the representation of the medal ribbons of the DFC and DFM. Another mission is represented by a key between the number 22. There is also some nose art in the form of Pegasus with the motto, Nocte Volamus (We fly by night). Is it possible that someone can identify this aircraft please?
Many thanks for uploading your Halifax photograph. The key makes perfect sense to represent the 21st mission and I suspect that the key in my photograph actually has 21 rather than 22, but it is very difficult to see due to the size of the photograph. There were three other photographs that came with this one, they show ground crew 'bombing up' the Halifax. They may be a Rugby or Coventry connection with the original owner of the photographs.
This one is the most interesting in that the message on the bomb could give a clue as to the Squadron. The message reads: Reprisals. From Chain Garage. This one for the smashed window. 45.
I can show it around for you to see if some of the Bomber boys on Fb can identify it for you! Let me know! Cheers Geoff
The 2 blue oblong shapes you highlighted in photo 1, I have seen a photo of a Lancaster with the same oblong shape on the side of the fuselage,along with its bombing sorties. Lancaster 111 ED731 AS-T2 (166 squadron) This aircraft completed more than 70 sorties, before being lost 24/25 March 1944. I will try and find the photo. Graham.
No 9 Squadron had the motto "Per noctem volamus" but flew Wellingtons then Lancasters, NOT Halifaxes.... As the motto isn't exactly the same, I suspect someone used a similar motto for their individual aircraft