American Spitfire Pilot World War II
Not seen before. The flight suit is unorthodox. The aircraft is a little unorthodox too. As Doug quickly surmised the aircraft and pilot are from the 7th Photo Reconnaissance Group based at Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. The flight suit was one of three obtained by pilots of the group at Wright Patterson and was reportedly an experimental design for high altitudes. It was not a g suit but was quite warm and was one piece thus being less bulky than the two piece standard issue American suit.

Lt Glenn Wiebe In F-5E (P-38) Cockpit
Wiebe was with the 13th Squadron of the 7th Photo Group based at Mount Farm, UK. My father went to grade school with him in Dallas Oregon. He was KIA on August 23, 1944 near Freiburg Germany flying F-5E 43-29030. He was reportedly intercepted by enemy aircraft. This was a day after he received his promotion to 1st Lieutenant. The pilots of the 7th Photo Group had no weapons and relied on their flying skill to evade intercepting enemy aircraft. Quite often they were not successful.

Lt Wendell W Blickensderfer in F-5 Cockpit
"Blick" as he was known for obvious reasons was a pilot with the 22nd Squadron of the 7th Photo Group based at Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was KIA (KLOD?) on January 19, 1944 near West Wycombe, UK due to bad weather. The A/C was F-5 42-51360. He was a good friend of my father who was also a 22nd Squadron pilot at that time.

Spitfire MkXI 7PRG Punkin II John S Blyth England 1944
That is Lt Arthur K Leatherwood on the left and my father Lt John S Blyth on the right. They were with the 14th Squadron of the 7th Photo Group based at Mt Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. The photo is from 1944 and I don't know the serial number of the A/C. Doug? Maybe it is Lil Punkin II or something like that. Leatherwood passed away on August 29, 2009.

Lt Charles JJ Goffin in Spitfire MkXI Cockpit
Lt Charles JJ Goffin was supposedly the only Belgian to serve with the USAAF in any capacity during WW II. I think that he lied about his age because he was born in 1913 rather than 1919 as is commonly reported. Before we entered the war Goffin shot down two 109s flying an Italian biplane. He was blind in one eye and I have no idea how he passed the physical. On September 8, 1944 he was sent on a mission to map the Siegfried Line. It was later confirmed that he was KIA near Mersch, Belgium which was very close to his hometown. He was flying Spitfire MK XI MB 952. Charlie was a good friend of my father and Belgium can be really proud of him.

Group Shot Mount Farm 7th Photo Group
Chapman and the famed RAF pilot Adrian Warburton took off together from Mount Farm on a mission on April 12, 1944. "Warbie" did not return and his remains were not discovered until 2002. Here is a link to part 1 of a five part segment about Warburton and his final mission. Chapman is part of the story.

Lt. Glenn E Miller 22nd Squadron 7th PRG
Miller was from Tacoma and was KIA June 29, 1944. Location and cause were listed as unknown. Sortie 2150 of the 7th PRG. He was flying F-5C 42-67111.

Lt John R Richards In Middle
Unidentified left and right. Richards served with the 13th and 14th Squadrons of the 7th Photo Group based at Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He flew 51 missions in F-5s, Spitfires and the P-38 ELINT Droop Snoot and was one of two members of the 7th PRG to receive a DSC.

Lt. Fabian J Egan 14th Squadron 7th PRG
There was flak damage to the wing, prop and horizontal stabilizer. He had just returned from Meresburg/Leuna bomb damage assesment. Most missions were flown unarmed and alone. Due to interceptions by ME 262s late in the war the 7th Group began assigning escorts on certain deep cover missions. Egan and Lt Bruce B Fish were accompanied by 8 P-51s from the 55th FG. This was December, 1944.

1-43-28972-F-5-Lightning-7PRG22FS-Robert-Carlgren-Mount-Farm-sep 1944 01
F-5 (P-38) 22nd Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm
Pilot is Lt Robert "Tubby" Carlgren with Major Walt Weitner on the right. He was downed by jets on December 23 or 26, 1944 near Magdeburg and became a POW. On September 13, 1944 he was being escorted by four P-51s when they were intercepted by two ME-262s. Carlgren managed to evade and completed his mission. One P-51 was damaged but they all returned to base. Serial # of this A/C is 43-28972.

1-42-51360-F-5-Lightning-7PRG22FS-Wendell-Blickensderfer-Mount-Farm-sep 1944 01
Lt Wendell W Blickensderfer 22nd Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK
"Blick" was KIA January 19, 1944 near West Wycombe, UK. He was flying F-5 42-51360. He bailed out too low. Is that his crew chief on the left?

Lt Robert Kraft In F-5 Cockpit
Lt Kraft served with the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. He was KIA while flying a courier mission in the 8th AF's only B-25 "Miss Nashville". He was downed by flak on October 26, 1944 near Mourmelon Le Grande, France. He had just dropped off Lorelle Hearst in Paris. She was the wife of William Randolph Hearst and was sent to Paris as a correspondent. B-25 42-53357.

FO Malcolm Doc Hughes After Bailout August 18 1943
"Doc" survived a harrowing bailout after the tail broke off his F-5 (P-38) at 35,000ft. His mask was ripped off and he was hit by hailstones. Pulling the ripcord at about 5,000ft he found himself hanging by his leg with his head downward. He managed to right himself and was rescued by two English girls. The full account can be found in "Eyes of the Eighth" by Patricia Fussell Keen. "Doc" served with the 7th Photo Group based at Mount Farm, UK.

Eagle Squadron Spitfire MkVb Mount Farm 1944
This "war weary" Spitfire MK Vb came from the Eagle Squadron and was assigned to the 7th Photo Group based at Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. It was used for training and personal use was also allowed. Notice the clipped wings for quicker roll rate. There is a 14th Squadron Spit MK XI visible in the distance.

7th Reconnaissance Group Photographic Missions

http://www.flickr.com/photos/24554019@N06/sets/72157623296582738/

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Berlin-Diesel-Motor-Works-August-6 1944 01

Berlin-Mariendorf: Berlin August 6, 1944. Per SgML12 the photo shows Berlin-Mariendorf with the Trabrennbahn horse racing track in the upper left half.
Berlin 4: Diesel Motor Works Berlin August 6, 1944.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Brux-Czech-Republic-August-24 1944 01

Brux Czech Republic: Brux (now Most) Czech Republic August 24, 1944. This was for bomb damage assessment of synthetic oil refinery.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Dessau Airfield Germany May 30 1944 01

Dessau Airfield Germany May 30, 1944: Luftwaffe factory airfield May 30, 1944. This was a Junkers factory airfield. It is possible that there is a captured B-24 at the far left of the airfield lower center. A B-24 undercarriage was reportedly used in a prototype of the JU 287 jet bomber. Numerous other aircraft are visible including a possible JU-290. JV has suggested the other aircraft may be JU 252s or 352s, an HE 111, JU-88s or 188s and a possible HE 177. Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron 7th Photo Group Mount Farm UK. He was flying Spitfire Mark XI PA841. Best viewed in original size. Photo taken from about 30,000ft.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Halberstadt Airfield Germany July 7 1944 01

Halberstadt Airfield Germany July 7, 1944: Luftwaffe airfield Halberstadt Germany. Lots of aircraft on the ground July 7, 1944 including a Heinkel 111Z or Zwilling glider tug. There were a total of 12 built. Best viewed in original size. Photo by Lt. John S. Blyth flying a Spitfire MK XI. Photo was taken from about 30,000ft.

Halberstadt Airfield Germany Crop: Rare Heinkel 111Z glider tug at Halberstadt Airfield. Possibly some fighters as there was a big air battle that day July 7, 1944. Several of them landed here to rearm and refuel.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Koethen Airfield Germany Aug 24 1944 01

Koethen Airfield Germany 1: Luftwaffe Airfield Kothen Germany August 24, 1944 with many aircraft visible in pens. There are also a number of flak batteries if I am not mistaken. This was sortie 3065 of the 7th Photo Group. Photo was taken from about 30,000ft by my father Lt John S Blyth. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA944.
Koethen Airfield Germany 2: Luftwaffe airfield Kothen Germany August 24, 1944. There are a number of aircraft visible in the lower left near the hangars. Photo was taken from about 30,000ft.
Koethen Airfield Germany 3: Luftwaffe airfield Kothen Germany August 24, 1944.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Laon-Athies Airfield France-Apr-23 1944 01

Laon Athies Airfield Occupied France: Luftwaffe airfield occupied France April 23, 1944. This was supposed to be for bomb damage assessment purposes. Did they bomb the wrong airfield? The bombing mission was reportedly flown by 136 P-38 "droop snoots".

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Laupheim Airfield Germany August-11 1944 01

Laupheim Airfield Germany August 11, 1944: Luftwaffe airfield August 11, 1944. Bomb damage assessment. Sortie 2833 of the 7th Photo Group. My father Lt John S Blyth was the pilot. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PL866 and the altitude was approximately 30,000ft.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Angers France June 12 1944 01

Angers France June 12, 1944: Angers France June 12, 1944. Mission that day was high altitude coverage of the Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours. Photo by Lt John S Blyth flying a Spitfire MK XI. Best viewed in original size. The Chateau was occupied by the Germans at the time hence the military buildings visible within the walls of the Chateau.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Oschersleben Airfield Germany May 30 1944 01

Oschersleben Airfield Germany May 30, 1944: Luftwaffe airfield Germany May 30, 1944 bomb damage assessment. This was a Focke Wulf factory airfield producing primarily FW 190s after 1941. Many aircraft are visible on ground a number of which are destroyed. There seem to be a number of flak batteries as well and some mysterious poofy things casting shadows just above the upper half of the leftmost runway. Whatever they are they are in the air and not on the ground. Mission by Lt. John S Blyth 14th Squadron 7th PRG, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK flying Spitfire MK XI PA841. Best viewed in original size.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Reims France May 1 1944 01

Reims France May 1, 1944: Glad to report that most of the buildings are still there including the Surrender Room, Porte Roma, Reims Cathedral, etc. Photo by Lt John S Blyth flying a Spitfire MK XI. Best viewed in original size. Altitude 6 miles or 9 kilometers. Best viewed in original size.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Stendal Airfield Germany August-6 1944 01

Stendal Airfield Germany: Stendal Airfield near Berlin August 6, 1944. The mission over Berlin lasted approximately 30 minutes which was a long time during that period. Hope you don't mind me taking a few pictures of your airfield from my Spitfire MK XI PA944.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron V-2-Site-Wizernes France August-4 1944 01

V-2 Site Wizernes France 1: This was a bomb damage assessment mission on August 4, 1944. The targets were Watten, Marquise/Mimoyecques and Wizernes. Pilot was Lt. John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron 7th Photo Group Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK flying Spitfire MK XI PA 842. Altitude approximately 15,000 feet. Sortie 2669.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron D-Day-Beach-Mulberry-Harbor-June 12 1944 01

D-Day Beach Mulberry Harbor: Photo of a portion of one of the Mulberry Harbors on June 12, 1944. This was a souvenir photo as my father's primary mission that day was the Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours plus the Nantes airfied. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 of the 14th Squadron of the 7th Photo Group based at Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK.

D-Day Beach Mulberry Harbor 3: June 12, 1944.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Juno-Beach France June 12 1944 01

Juno Beach June 12, 1944 View 1: June 12, 1944. Souvenir photo. My father was sent on a mission to photograph the Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours. He was flying Spitifire MK XI PA841 of the 14th Squadron of the 7th Photo Group based at Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. Click on all sizes above and original size to view the high res version. A number of barrage balloons are visible.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Montdidier Airfield France-July 17 1944 01

Montdidier Airfield France Montdidier Airfield on July 17, 1944.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Orleans France June 7 1944 01

LW Aircraft Near Orleans France: Photo was taken on June 7, 1944 from Spitfire MK XI MB948 from the 7th PRG. There are a number of aircraft visible including some which appear to be camoflauged. There also appear to be some bomb hits near the various buildings. JV thinks the AC are JU 88s and/or JU 188s. Woods known as Bois de l'Alleu near Orleans-Bricy AF. The pilot was my father Lt. John S Blyth

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Brandenburg Airfield Germany August-6 1944 01

Brandenburg Airfield Germany August 6, 1944: Portion of a Luftwaffe airfield in a photo taken on August 6, 1944 from Spitfire MK XI PA944 flown by Lt. John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron of the 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Luxembourg-May 12 1944 01

Luxembourg, Luxembourg: Luxembourg City in a photo taken from a Spitfire MK XI of the 7th PRG on May 12, 1944.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Nantes Airfield France-June 12 1944 01

Nantes Airfield France: Luftwaffe airfield at Nantes on June 12, 1944. This was a bomb damage assesment mission conducted by a Spitfire MK XI of the 7th PRG.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Kassel Germany 1944 01

Kassel Germany: Henschel Factory Kassel Germany. Photo was taken from a Spitfire MK XI of the 7th PRG. A number of flak batteries are visible. Henschel Flugmotorenbau G.m.b.H Werk Kassel-Altenbauna.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Spandau Germany 1944 01

Spandau Berlin: Photo taken August 6, 1944 from a Spitfire MK XI of the 7th PRG.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Kassel-Waldau Airfield Germany 1944 01

Kassel-Waldau Airfield Germany 1944: Bomb damage assesment photo taken from a Spitfire MK XI of the 7th PRG.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Angers France July 24 1944 01

Angers France: Photo taken from a Spitfire MK XI of the 7th PRG on July 24, 1944.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Wurzburg Germany Sept-10 1944 01

Wurzburg Germany September 10, 1944: Photo taken September 10, 1944 by Lt. John S. Blyth from Spitfire MK XI PA944 of the 14th Squadron, 7th PRG, Mt Farm UK. Targets were Mannheim-Wurzburg-Schweinfurt. Most of the visible buildings were destroyed in an RAF bomber attack in March, 1945.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Zwickau Germany Aug 24 1944 01

Zwickau Germany August 24, 1944: Sortie 3065 of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. The pilot was Lt John S Blyth flying Spitfire PA944 at an altitude of approximately 30,000'. Mission that day was Freital, Ruhland, Brux, Plauen, Kothen A/Fs: Lonnewitz, Preytzch. Thanks to Christian for the ID.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Oil-Shale-Field Germany May 30 1944 01

Oil Shale Field Near Bitterfeld, Germany: Photo taken May 30, 1944. Photo By Lt. John S Blyth, 14th Squadron, 7th PRG from Spitfire MK XI PA 841. Altitude was approximately 30,000sf.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron BMW-Aero-Engine-Plant-Allach Germany 1944 01

BMW Aero Engine Plant in Allach: August 11, 1944. Per JV this is the BMW AeroEngine Plant in Allach which is a suburb of NW Munich. The factory is still in use and is owned by the Man Company. Two of the buildings have unique camouflage. I am not an expert in such matters but would suspect that the sub camp or out camp Allach must be in this photo. It was part of Dachau. Be sure to view in original high resolution size. Photo taken by Lt. John S Blyth pilot from 14th Squadron of the 7th Photo Group USAAF based at Mount Farm, UK. He was flying Spitfire Mk XI PL866 and altitude was approximately 5 miles.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Freital Germany Aug 24 1944 01

Freital Germany August 24, 1944: August 24, 1944. Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron of the 7th Photo Group took this photo. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 944. Altitude was approximately 30,000ft.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Bitterfeld-5 Germany May 30 1944 01

Bitterfeld5: May 30, 1944.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Bitterfeld-3 Germany May 30 1944 01

Bitterfeld3: May 30, 1944.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Bitterfeld-2 Germany May 30 1944 01

Bitterfeld2: May 30, 1944.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Bitterfeld-1 Germany May 30 1944 01

Bitterfeld1: May 30, 1944.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Halberstadt Germany May 30 1944 01

Halberstadt May 30, 1944: May 30, 1944. According to Chiquitaman this is not Bitterfeld although the photo has Bitterfeld written on the back.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Lille France June 22 1944 01

Lille France June 22, 1944: Photo taken on June 22, 1944 from a Spitfire MK XI of the 7th PRG.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Sint-Denijs-Westrem-AF-Belgium-July 19 1944 01

Sint-Denijs-Westrem Airfield July 19, 1944: Photo was taken July 19, 1944 by a Spitfire MK XI of the 14th Squadron of the 7th PRG. Pilot was Lt John S Blyth and altitude was approximately 30,000ft. Here is a link to a trailer about the pilot:

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Bridges France July 17 1944 01

Bridges France: Sortie 2336 of the 7th PRG flown in Spitfire MK XI MB 948 July 17, 1944.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Triere Germany May 30 1944 01

Triere Germany: Sortie 1453 of the 7th PRG flown in a Spitfire MK XI May 12, 1944.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Saarbrucken Germany Aug 11 1944 01

Saarbrucken Germany: Sortie 2833 of the 7th PRG flown in Spitfire MK XI PL 866 on August 11, 1944.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Bruges-Belgium-July 21 1944 01

Bruges Belgium: Sortie 2422 of the 7th PRG flown July 21, 1944 in Spitfire MK XI MB 948.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Bruges Belgium-July 17 1944 01

Bruges Belgium 2: Sortie 2422 of the 7th PRG flown in Spitfire MK XI MB 948 on July 17, 1944.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Laon Athies Airfield France-April-23 1944 01

Laon Athies Airfield France: Sortie BB157 of the 7th PRG flown on April 23, 1944 in a Spitfire MK XI.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Halberstadt Germany May 30 1944 01

Halberstadt May 30, 1944: May 30, 1944. According to Chiquitaman this is not Bitterfeld although the photo has Bitterfeld written on the back.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Siegen Germany Sep-13 1944 01

Siegen Germany: September 13, 1944 Siegen Germany. Apparently the railroad yard was the most important target.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron D-Day+6 France June 12 1944 01

D-Day+6: June 12, 1944. Souvenir photos of activity off the D-Day beachhead. Sortie 1841 of the 7th PRG flown in Spitfire MK XI PA 841. Pilot was Lt John S Blyth who served with the 22nd and then the 14th Squadron. He was returning from a mission to the Loire bridges.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Angers France June 12 1944 01

Angers France June 12, 1944: This is Sortie 1841 of the 7th PRG. Targets were the Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours. Photos taken from Spitfire MK XI 841 piloted by Lt John S Blyth (USAAF).
Angers France June 12, 1944: Sortie 1841 flown in Spitfire MK XI PA 841. Targets were the Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours. Pilot was Lt. John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group based at Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Juno-Beach France June 12 1944 01

Juno Beach June 12, 1944 View 2 Crop: June 12, 1944. Souvenir photo. Lt John S Blyth was sent on a mission to photograph the Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours. He was flying Spitifire MK XI PA841 of the 14th Squadron of the 7th Photo Group based at Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK.
Juno Beach June 12, 1944 View 2: June 12, 1944. Souvenir photo. Lt John S Blyth was sent on a mission to photograph the Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours. He was flying Spitifire MK XI PA841 of the 14th Squadron of the 7th Photo Group based at Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Reims-Champagne Airfield France-May 1 1944 01

Luftwaffe Airfield Reims Champagne May 1, 1944: Photo taken May 1, 1944. Several damaged aircraft are visible on the ground. Per JV this airfield is still in use and is called Reims-Champagne. Sortie 1303 flown by Lt John S Blyth, 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. Altitude was approximately 30,000ft and he was flying a Spitfire MK XI. This was a damage assessment mission and several aircraft are visible on the airfield.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Stendal Airfield Germany Aug 6 1944 01

Stendal Airfield Germany August 6, 1944: Photo taken August 6, 1944 by Lt John S Blyth 14th Squadron 7th Photo Group USAAF based at Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA944 and photo was taken from about 30,000'. Best viewed in original size.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Dessau Airfield Germany May 30 1944 01

Dessau Airfield Crop May 30, 1944

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Stendal Airfield Germany Aug 6 1944 01

Stendal Airfield Germany August 6, 1944: Photo taken August 6, 1944 by Lt John S Blyth 14th Squadron 7th Photo Group USAAF based at Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA944 and photo was taken from about 30,000'. Best viewed in original size.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Augsburg Airfield Germany Aug 11 1944 01

Composite Augsburg Airfield Haunstetten August 11, 1944: Photo taken August 11, 1944 from a Spitfire MK XI of the 14th Squadron of the 7th PRG. Sortie 2833 of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. The pilot was Lt John S Blyth flying Spitfire MK XI PL866. Altitude was approximately 30,000ft.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Brux Oil Refinery Germany 1944 01

Brux Oil Refinery Composite

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Oschersleben Airfield Germany 1944 01

Oschersleben Airfield 2: Scan of a scan so the resolution is not so good. Still it shows more of the runway and additional aircraft.

7th Photo Group 22nd Fighter Squadron Basdorf Germany Aug 6 1944 01

Basdorf Germany: Sortie 2732 of the 7th PRG flown on August 6, 1944 in Spitfire MK XI PA 944. This supposedly shows extensive bomb damage to the Basdorf BMW engine plant.

V Weapons Noball Aerial Photos

These photos show various V-weapons sites in France taken in 1944 by pilots from the 7th PRG USAAF based at Mt Farm, UK. The cutouts visible in some of the photos were required by military censors. These cutouts originally read Noball which was the codename used by the 7th PRG as well as the various 8th and 9th AF bomb groups for V-Weapons sites. These photos were taken as part of Operation Dilly. Some of the higher altitude photos were taken by my father John S. Blyth flying a Spitfire MK XI. The oblique photos were I believe taken by other pilots of the 7th PRG flying F-5s which was a P-38 variant.

Web Reference: http://www.flickr.com/photos/24554019@N06/sets/72157610565917649/

7PG22FS Flers V Weapons Noball France Aug 6 1944 01

Flers V Weapons Site: V weapons site France July 6, 1944. Pilot was from 7th PRG, Mt Farm, UK.

7PG22FS Blangermont V Weapons Noball France Aug 6 1944 01

Blangermont V Weapons Site: V weapons site France July 7, 1944. Pilot was from 7th PRG, Mt Farm, UK flying a Spit MK XI.

7PG22FS Chateau De Bosmelet V Weapons Noball France Aug 6 1944 01

Chateau De Bosmelet V-1 Site: V Weapons site France with great old chateau.

7PG22FS Chateau De Bosmelet V Weapons Noball France Aug 6 1944 02

Chateau De Bosmelet DA: Sorry to say someone came in and blew some things up. The chateau was repaired however and is as good as new.

7PG22FS Prouville V Weapons Noball France Aug 6 1944 01

Prouville V-1 Weapons Site: Mission flown by a pilot of the 7th PRG Mt Farm, UK. P=launch ramp. Q=nonmagnetic building. R=assembly building.

7PG22FS Bois-De-Harel V Weapons Noball France July 7 1944 01

Bois De Harel V Weapons Site: Mission flown July 7, 1944 by a pilot of the 7th PRG, Mt Farm, UK. This was an active V-1 site as evidenced by the skid spray pattern in the field in line with the launch pad (P) to the Northwest. Q is the non magnetic building where they would 'swing the compass' which aligned the V-1 to the target. They performed this job by hammering the bomb with wooden mallets.

7PG22FS Chateau de Bosmelet V Weapons Noball France July 7 1944 01

V-1 Weapons Site Chateau de Bosmelet France: Per JV shows the BCP or Battery Command Post of this V-1 buzzbomb site

7PG22FS Villers L'Hopital V Weapons Noball France July 7 1944 01

Villers L'Hopital: V Weapons site France July 4, 1944. This was the first successful day for Operation 'Dilly' which targeted the Noball sites.

7PG22FS Beauvoir V Weapons Noball France July 7 1944 01

Beauvoir: Per JV photo shows portion of the Beauvoir Airfield and a portion of the nearby V-1 site both heavily damaged. According to Laurent this is German site No. 654 with 3 V-1 rocket sites.

7PG22FS Mimoyecques V Weapons Noball France July 7 1944 01

V-3 Site Mimoyecques France: Photo taken August 4, 1944 by a Spitfire MK XI of the 7th PRG, Mt Farm, UK.

7PG22FS Freval V Weapons Noball France July 7 1944 01

Freval

7PG22FS Bois de Radinghem V Weapons Noball France July 7 1944 01

V-1 Site Bois de Radinghem France: Not Bois de Coupelle per JV.

7PG22FS Wizernes V Weapons Noball France July 7 1944 01-02

V-2 Site Wizernes France 1: This was a bomb damage assessment mission on August 4, 1944. The targets were Watten, Marquise/Mimoyecques and Wizernes. Pilot was Lt. John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron 7th Photo Group Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK flying Spitfire MK XI PA 842. Altitude approximately 15,000 feet. Sortie 2669.
V-2 Site Wizernes France 2: Photo taken August 4, 1944 from a Spitfire MK XI of the 7th PRG, Mt Farm, UK. Altitude was approximately 15,000sf.

7PG22FS Flottemanville-Hague V Weapons Noball France July 7 1944 01

V Weapons Site Flottemanville Hague II: V-1 site after bombing (strafing?). This oblique photo was taken on August 1, 1944 at 14:30 hours by a pilot of the 7th PRG flying an F-5 which was a P-38 variant.

7PG22FS Fleury V Weapons Noball France July 6 1944 01

V-1 Weapons Site Fleury:Photo taken July 6, 1944 by Spitfire MK XI PA944 of the 7th PRG. Altitude was approximately 15,000 feet. This appears to be an active V-1 site as there are skid marks in line with the launch ramp to NW.

7PG22FS V-Weapons Noball Area France Aug 4 1944 01

V-Weapons Site France August 4, 1944: Sortie 2669 of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. Targets were V-Weapons sites at Watten, Marquise/Mimoyecques, Wizernes (Aphrodite Targets). Pilot was Lt John S Blyth flying Spitfire MK XI PA842. Altitude was approximately 15,000ft.

7PG22FS St-Pol-Siracourt V Weapons Noball France July 7 1944 01

V-1 Site St Pol/Siracourt France July 7, 1944: Low oblique photo by Lt Col Norris E Hartwell of the 7th Photo Group based at Mount Farm, UK. He was flying an F-5 (P-38 variant).

7PG22FS Ferme V Weapons Noball France July 4 1944 01

Mont Louis Ferme V-1 Site July 4 1944: Sortie 2180 of the 7th Photo Group flown on July 4, 1944 by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron flying Spitfire MK XI MB948 'Oh Johnnie.' Altitude was about 15,000ft. The pointer in the upper right is pointing north. The launch ramp 'P' is oriented in a northwesterly direction probably towards London. Take a look at the ramp in original size. Targets that day were Gorensfield ? area, woods south of Domleger and Domvast.

7PG22FS Fleury Pas de Calais V Weapons Noball France July 6 1944 01

Active V-1 Site Fleury Pas de Calais July 6, 1944: Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA944 at about 15,000ft. Top of photo is roughly North.

Juno Beach June 12 1944

Sortie 1841 of the 14th Squadron of the 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. Mission was flown by Lt John S Blyth flying Spitfire MK XI PA841. These were souvenir photos as the primary targets were the Loire bridges between Nantes and Tours.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/24554019@N06/sets/72157623523601445/

7PG22FS South-of Juno Beach area France June 12 1944 01-03

Somewhere South of Juno Beach 1 June 12 1944: Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 and altitude was about 30,000'. The actual targets that day were Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours, La Huichetiere, Nantes Airfield, Le Port Boulet Bridge DA. He returned via Juno Beach and took some souvenir photos along the way. He had no idea what was on the ground in this photo.

Somewhere South of Juno Beach 2 June 12 1944: Lots of barrage balloons visible. Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 and altitude was about 30,000'. The actual targets that day were Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours, La Huichetiere, Nantes Airfield, Le Port Boulet Bridge DA. He returned via Juno Beach and took some souvenir photos along the way. He had no idea what was on the ground in this photo

Somewhere South of Juno Beach 3 June 12 1944: Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 and altitude was about 30,000'. The actual targets that day were Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours, La Huichetiere, Nantes Airfield, Le Port Boulet Bridge DA. He returned via Juno Beach and took some souvenir photos along the way. He had no idea what was on the ground in this photo.

7PG22FS Southwest-of Juno Beach area France June 12 1944 01

Somewhere Southwest of Juno Beach June 12 1944: Check out the barrage balloons. I count at least 12. June 12, 1944. Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 and altitude was about 30,000'. The actual targets that day were Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours, La Huichetiere, Nantes Airfield, Le Port Boulet Bridge DA. He returned via Juno Beach and took some souvenir photos along the way. He had no idea what was on the ground in this photo.

7PG22FS ALG-B3-Sainte-Croix-sur-Mer-France-June-12-1944 01

ALG B3 (Advanced Landing Ground) Sainte Croix sur Mer June 12, 1944: According to JV this is ALG B3 at Sainte Croix sur Mer. The aircraft visible on the ground are therefore from the RCAF. The aircraft at this field may have included Spitfire MK IXs, Photo recce Mustangs and Typhoons. The A/C on the ground appear to have invasion stripes. The celebrated British ace 'Johnnie' Johnson served with the RCAF 144th Wing here. Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 and altitude was about 30,000'. The actual targets that day were Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours, La Huichetiere, Nantes Airfield, Le Port Boulet Bridge DA. He returned via Juno Beach and took some souvenir photos along the way. He had no idea what was on the ground in this photo.

ALG B3 (Advanced Landing Ground) Sainte Croix sur Mer June 12, 1944 crop 1: According to JV this is ALG B3 at Sainte Croix sur Mer. The aircraft visible on the ground are therefore from the RAF or RCAF since the B designation referrred to RAF advanced landing grounds. The aircraft at this field may have included Spitfire MK IXs, Photo recce Mustangs and Typhoons. The A/C on the ground appear to have invasion stripes. The celebrated British ace 'Johnnie' Johnson served with the 144th Wing here. Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 and altitude was about 30,000'. The actual targets that day were Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours, La Huichetiere, Nantes Airfield, Le Port Boulet Bridge DA. He returned via Juno Beach and took some souvenir photos along the way. He had no idea what was on the ground in this photo.

ALG B3 (Advanced Landing Ground) Sainte Croix sur Mer June 12, 1944 crop 2: According to JV this is ALG B3 at Sainte Croix sur Mer. The aircraft visible on the ground are therefore from the RCAF. The aircraft at this field may have included Spitfire MK IXs, Photo recce Mustangs and Typhoons. The A/C on the ground appear to have invasion stripes. The celebrated British ace 'Johnnie' Johnson served with the RCAF 144th Wing here. Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 and altitude was about 30,000'. The actual targets that day were Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours, La Huichetiere, Nantes Airfield, Le Port Boulet Bridge DA. He returned via Juno Beach and took some souvenir photos along the way. He had no idea what was on the ground in this photo.

7PG22FS Juno Beach area France June 12 1944 01

Juno Beach June 12, 1944 View 1: June 12, 1944. Souvenir photo. My father was sent on a mission to photograph the Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours. He was flying Spitifire MK XI PA841 of the 14th Squadron of the 7th Photo Group based at Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. Click on all sizes above and original size to view the high res version. A number of barrage balloons are visible.

Juno Beach June 12, 1944 View 2 Crop: June 12, 1944. Souvenir photo. Lt John S Blyth was sent on a mission to photograph the Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours. He was flying Spitifire MK XI PA841 of the 14th Squadron of the 7th Photo Group based at Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK.

Juno Beach June 12, 1944 View 2: June 12, 1944. Souvenir photo. Lt John S Blyth was sent on a mission to photograph the Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours. He was flying Spitifire MK XI PA841 of the 14th Squadron of the 7th Photo Group based at Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK.

7PG22FS Barrage Balloons Juno Beach area France June 12 1944 01-02

Juno Beach Barrage Balloon Crop June 12 1944: At least 8 barrage balloons and their shadows. Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 and altitude was about 30,000'. The actual targets that day were Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours, La Huichetiere, Nantes Airfield, Le Port Boulet Bridge DA. He returned via Juno Beach and took some souvenir photos along the way. He had no idea what was on the ground in this photo.

Near Juno Beach Barrage Balloon and Vehicles June 12 1944 Crop: Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 and altitude was about 30,000'. The actual targets that day were Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours, La Huichetiere, Nantes Airfield, Le Port Boulet Bridge DA. He returned via Juno Beach and took some souvenir photos along the way. He had no idea what was on the ground in this photo

Near Juno Beach/Village With Balloon Crop June 12 1944: Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 and altitude was about 30,000'. The actual targets that day were Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours, La Huichetiere, Nantes Airfield, Le Port Boulet Bridge DA. He returned via Juno Beach and took some souvenir photos along the way. He had no idea what was on the ground in this photo.

7PG22FS Vehicles Juno Beach area France June 12 1944 01-02

Near Juno Beach Vehicles on Ground June 12 1944: Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 and altitude was about 30,000'. The actual targets that day were Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours, La Huichetiere, Nantes Airfield, Le Port Boulet Bridge DA. He returned via Juno Beach and took some souvenir photos along the way. He had no idea what was on the ground in this photo.

7PG22FS near Juno Beach area France June 12 1944 01-02

Near Juno Beach June 12 1944:Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 and altitude was about 30,000'. The actual targets that day were Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours, La Huichetiere, Nantes Airfield, Le Port Boulet Bridge DA. He returned via Juno Beach and took some souvenir photos along the way. He had no idea what was on the ground in this photo

Near Juno Beach June 12 1944: Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 and altitude was about 30,000'. The actual targets that day were Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours, La Huichetiere, Nantes Airfield, Le Port Boulet Bridge DA. He returned via Juno Beach and took some souvenir photos along the way. He had no idea what was on the ground in this photo.

7PG22FS downed aircraft Juno Beach area France June 12 1944 01

Juno Beach June 12 1944 Hello Down There Crop: Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 and altitude was about 30,000'. The actual targets that day were Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours, La Huichetiere, Nantes Airfield, Le Port Boulet Bridge DA. He returned via Juno Beach and took some souvenir photos along the way. He had no idea what was on the ground in this photo.

7PG22FS strange-objects Juno Beach area France June 12 1944 01

Juno Beach 4 Strange Objects June 12 1944:Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 and altitude was about 30,000'. The actual targets that day were Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours, La Huichetiere, Nantes Airfield, Le Port Boulet Bridge DA. He returned via Juno Beach and took some souvenir photos along the way. He had no idea what was on the ground in this photo.

7PG22FS Mulberry Harbor Juno Beach area France June 12 1944 01

D-Day Beach Mulberry Harbor: Photo of a portion of one of the Mulberry Harbors on June 12, 1944. This was a souvenir photo as my father's primary mission that day was the Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours plus the Nantes airfied. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 of the 14th Squadron of the 7th Photo Group based at Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK.

D-Day Beach Mulberry Harbor 3

7th Reconnaissance Group some mission photographs

Aerial Photos WW II High Res

http://www.flickr.com/photos/24554019@N06/sets/72157623404746901/

7PG22FS aerial photo Luftwaffe-Airfield-Reims-Champagne-May-1 1944 01

Luftwaffe Airfield Reims Champagne May 1, 1944 View 2: Sortie 1303 flown by Lt John S Blyth, 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. Altitude was approximately 30,000ft and he was flying a Spitfire MK XI. This was a damage assessment mission and several aircraft are visible on the airfield. Thanks JV for IDing View 1 of this airfield as seen below.

7PG22FS aerial photo Ypres-Vlamertinge-Airfield-Belgium-1943-01

Ypres/Vlamertinge Airfield Belgium 1943 or 1944: Photo by pilot of the 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK flying an F-5 (P-38). Thanks to JV for IDing the airfield.

7PG22FS aerial photo Spandau-Citadel-Germany-Aug-6 1944 01

Spandau Citadel Germany August 6, 1944: Sortie 2732 of the 7th Photo Group. The pilot was Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron flying Spitfire MK XI PA944.

7PG22FS aerial photo Ghent-Belgium-July-19 1944 01

Gent July 19, 1944: Photo by Lt John S Blyth, 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK flying a Spitfire MK XI.

7PG22FS aerial photo Sankt-Niklaas-Airfield-near-Ghent-Belgium-July-18 1944 01

Sankt Niklaas Airfield Near Gent (Ghent) July 18, 1944: Sortie 2374 of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. Targets that day were Ghent to Antwerp, RR Ghent to Terneuzen. Pilot was Lt John S Blyth flying Spitfire MK XI MB948 at altitude of approximately 30,000ft.

7PG22FS aerial photo Luftwaffe-Airfield-Laon-Athies-April-23 1944 01

Luftwaffe Airfield Laon Athies April 23, 1944: Sortie BB157 of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. This was a DA mission flown in a Spitfire MK XI at about 30,000'. The pilot was Lt. John S Blyth and this was his first mission in a Spitfire. I previously posted another view from this same run. Best viewed in original size.

7PG22FS aerial photo Brandenburg-Neuendorf-Airfield-August-6 1944 01

Brandenburg Neuendorf Airfield August 6, 1944: Portion of the Arado factory airfield in a photo taken on August 6, 1944 from Spitfire MK XI PA944 flown by Lt. John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron of the 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. Lots of aircraft are visible including possible HE 177s. The field was heavily defended with several flak batteries visible in the photo. Thanks to Andy for iding the Arado Factory. For more on the aircraft and pilot:

7PG22FS aerial photo Zwickau-Luftwaffe-Airfield-and-Marshaling-Yard-Aug-24 1944 01

Zwickau Luftwaffe Airfield, Factory and Marshaling Yard Germany August 24, 1944: Sortie 3065 of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. The pilot was Lt John S Blyth flying Spitfire PA944 at an altitude of approximately 30,000'. Numerous destroyed aircraft are visible in the photo. There may also be a camo tent over 3 splitter pens. Mission that day was Freital, Ruhland, Brux, Plauen, Kothen A/Fs: Lonnewitz, Preytzch. Thanks to Christian for the ID.

7PG22FS aerial photo Kassel-Rothwesten-Airfield-May-9 1944 01

Kassel Rothwesten Airfield May 9, 1944 View 2: Sortie 1365 of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. Pilot was Lt John S Blyth flying a Spitfire MK XI at about 30,000'.

7PG22FS aerial photo Factory-Berlin-Basdorf-August-6 1944 01

Factory Berlin Basdorf August 6, 1944: Sortie 2732 of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. Pilot was Lt John S Blyth flying Spitfire MK XI PA944. This looks like a nice cheery place.

7PG22FS aerial photo Bridge-near-Nantes-June-24 1944 01

Bridge Near Nantes June 24, 1944: Sortie 2102 of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. Pilot was Lt John S Blyth flying Spitfire MB948 'Oh Johnnie.'

7PG22FS aerial photo Halberstadt-Luftwaffe-Airfield-May-30 1944 01

Halberstadt Luftwaffe Airfield May 30, 1944: Sortie 1670 of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. Pilot was Lt John S Blyth flying Spitfire MK XI PA841 at an altitude of approximately 30,000ft.

7PG22FS aerial photo Dunkerque-Dunkirk-1943-01

Dunkerque (Dunkirk) 1943 or 1944: Photo taken by Lt John S Blyth, 22nd Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK probably in 1943. He was flying an F-5 (P-38). This was probably a practice mission.

7PG22FS aerial photo ALG-B3-Sainte-Croix-sur-Mer-June-12 1944 01

ALG B3 (Advanced Landing Ground) Sainte Croix sur Mer June 12, 1944: According to JV this is ALG B3 at Sainte Croix sur Mer. The aircraft visible on the ground are therefore from the RCAF. The aircraft at this field may have included Spitfire MK IXs, Photo recce Mustangs and Typhoons. The A/C on the ground appear to have invasion stripes. The celebrated British ace 'Johnnie' Johnson served with the RCAF 144th Wing here. Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 and altitude was about 30,000'. The actual targets that day were Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours, La Huichetiere, Nantes Airfield, Le Port Boulet Bridge DA. He returned via Juno Beach and took some souvenir photos along the way. He had no idea what was on the ground in this photo.

ALG B3 Saint Croix sur Mer June 12, 1944: According to JV this is ALG B3 at Sainte Croix sur Mer. The aircraft visible on the ground are therefore from the RCAF. The aircraft at this field may have included Spitfire MK IXs, Photo recce Mustangs and Typhoons. The A/C on the ground appear to have invasion stripes. The celebrated British ace 'Johnnie' Johnson served with the RCAF 144th Wing here. Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 and altitude was about 30,000'. The actual targets that day were Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours, La Huichetiere, Nantes Airfield, Le Port Boulet Bridge DA. He returned via Juno Beach and took some souvenir photos along the way. He had no idea what was on the ground in this photo.

ALG B3 (Advanced Landing Ground) Sainte Croix sur Mer June 12, 1944 Crop 1: According to JV this is ALG B3 at Sainte Croix sur Mer. The aircraft visible on the ground are therefore from the RAF or RCAF since the B designation referrred to RAF advanced landing grounds. The aircraft at this field may have included Spitfire MK IXs, Photo recce Mustangs and Typhoons. The A/C on the ground appear to have invasion stripes. The celebrated British ace 'Johnnie' Johnson served with the 144th Wing here. Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, Oxfordshire, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841 and altitude was about 30,000'. The actual targets that day were Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours, La Huichetiere, Nantes Airfield, Le Port Boulet Bridge DA. He returned via Juno Beach and took some souvenir photos along the way. He had no idea what was on the ground in this photo.

7PG22FS aerial photo Dessau-Junkers-Factory-Airfield-May-30 1944 01

Dessau Junkers Factory Airfield May 30, 1944 2: Luftwaffe factory airfield May 30, 1944. This was a Junkers factory airfield. Numerous aircraft are visible including possible JU-290s and a 390. Photo by Lt John S Blyth flying Spitfire Mark XI PA841. Best viewed in original size. Photo taken from about 30,000ft. Here is the original photo from this run. One aircraft is in motion and another one appears out of nowhere in this 2nd photo above. Junkers Flugzeugwerke Dessau.

7PG22FS aerial photo Loire-Bridge-France-June-12 1944 01

Loire Bridge June 12, 1944: Bridge at Chalonnes sur Loire. Mission that day was high altitude coverage of the Loire bridges from Nantes to Tours. Photo by Lt John S Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group flying Spitfire MK XI PA 841. Best viewed in original size.

7PG22FS aerial photo Lille-France-June-22 1944 01

Lille France June 22, 1944 #2: Lille wa apparently bombed that day and the smoke plume is possibly a target marker dropped by a B-17 or Pathfinder. Photo was taken at about 30,000ft by Lt John S Blyth, 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. He was flying Spitfire MK XI MB948. In addition to Lille his targets that day included V-weapons sites.

7PG22FS aerial photo Kassel-Rothwesten-Luftwaffe-Airfield-Germany-May-9 1944 01

Kassel-Rothwesten Luftwaffe Airfield Germany May 9, 1944: Sortie 1365 of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. Pilot was Lt John S Blyth. He was flying a Spitfire MK XI at about 30,000ft. Targets that day were airfields at Fulda and Kassel Rothwesten. Some of the aircraft on the field appear to be quite tiny.

7PG22FS aerial photo Luftwaffe-Airfield-Germany-August-12 1944 01

Luftwaffe Airfield Germany August 12, 1944: Sortie 3272 of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. Targets were reportedly Hanau-Eisenach? Pilot was Lt John S Blyth flying a Spitfire MK XI at about 30,000ft. There do not seem to be many aircraft on the field.

7PG22FS aerial photo Alt-Lonnewitz-Luftwaffe-Factory-Airfield-August-24 1944 01

Alt Lonnewitz Luftwaffe Factory Airfield August 24, 1944: Sortie 3065 of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. Targets were Freital, Ruhland, Brux, Plauen, Kothen A/Fs; Lonnewitz, Preytzch. Photo by Lt John S Blyth flying Spitfire MK XI PA944. Seems to be pretty heavily defended. The Arado 234 jet was manufactured here.

7PG22FS aerial photo Luftwaffe-Airfield-Laon-Athies-France-April-23 1944 01

Luftwaffe Airfield Laon Athies France April 23, 1944: Bomb damage assessment flown by Lt John Blyth, 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. He was flying a Spitfire MK XI at about 30,000ft. It doesn't seem like there is a lot of DA work to be done.

7PG22FS aerial photo Ruhland-Synthetic-Oil-Refinery-August-24 1944 01

Ruhland Synthetic Oil Refinery August 24, 1944: Bomb damage assessment mission flown by Lt John S. Blyth, 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. This was sortie 3065 and he was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 944. Altitude was approximately 30,000ft.

7PG22FS aerial photo Brux-Oil-Refinery-August-24 1944 01

Brux (Most) Oil Refinery August 24, 1944: Bomb damage assessment mission flown by Lt John S. Blyth, 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. This was sortie 3065 and he was flying Spitfire MK XI PA 944. Altitude was approximately 30,000ft.

7PG22FS aerial photo Trier-Pfalzel-May-12 1944 01

Trier-Pfalzel May 12, 1944: Sortie 1453 flown by Lt John S. Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. Photo was taken from about 30,000' and he was flying an unspecified Spitfire MK XI. The place is well defended with what appear to be some very large flak guns or maybe dummies?

7PG22FS aerial photo Konz-Karthaus-May-12 1944 01

Konz-Karthaus May 12, 1944: Sortie 1453 flown by Lt John S. Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. Photo was taken from about 30,000' and he was flying an unspecified Spitfire MK XI. Several important bridges are seen as well as marshaling yard and bombed out factory of some type.

7PG22FS aerial photo Ehrang-May-12 1944 01

Ehrang May 12, 1944: Sortie 1453 flown by Lt John S. Blyth of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. Photo was taken from about 30,000' and he was flying an unspecified Spitfire MK XI. Several important bridges are seen as well as marshaling yard.

7PG22FS aerial photo Troyes-France-May-1 1944 01

Troyes France May 1, 1944: Sortie 1303 flown by Lt John S Blyth, 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. He was at about 30,000' and was flying a Spitfire MK XI.

Arnimswalde: This was one of the missions from the rare dossier.

Bremen: Photo taken soon after the war's end.

Giebelstadt: Photo taken soon after the war's end.

Loire Bridges: Loire Bridge mission flown June 2, 1944 accompanied by 16 P-38 fighters. From the dossier. F-5B serial number 42-67342 named "Double Trouble" from the 27th PRS.

Oberpfaffenhofen Do-335s: Dornier 335s after the war ended. These photos were probably from the "trolley" missions. From the 7th Photo Recon Group's book "Now It Can Be Told". As far as I know it is not copyrighted. Some appear to be A-1s and others appear to be A-6s.

Schwabisch Hall 2: After the end of the war.

Volkswagen Factory Fallersleben: Various targets including the Volkswagenwerke GMBE at Fallersleben. Photos taken from Spitfire MK XI MB 956.

Cologne (Koln)

Heavy Flak Battery

Villacoublay Airfield: Villacoublay Airfield France after the war's end.

V2 Site France: Siracourt (Special Military Construction) July 7, 1944

Sortie 2263 flown by Lt Col Norris E Hartwell Jr of the 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK. Special Military Construction = V-Weapons site. He was flying F-5B 42-68213. Hartwell was subsequently shot down at low level by flak at the Pas de Calais flying an oblique v-1 weapons mission. This was on August 12, 1944 and he was flying F-5B 42-67319. He survived a harrowing low level bailout and became a POW. This is a page from a secret bulletin which was distributed to the pilots of the group during the war.

Schwabisch Hall ME 262: Destroyed ME 262 after the end of the war.

Lt John R Richards Mission August 6, 1944: Sortie 2734 of the 14th Squadron, 7th Photo Group, Mount Farm, UK flown in Sptifire MK XI MB 956. Targets were Halberstadt, Magdeburg, Fallersleben, Brunswick and Dollbergen. Richards was one of only two pilots from the group to receive a DSC. This is a page from a secret bulletin which was distributed to the pilots of the group during the war.