Can anyone give me a description for 2nd A/B noted alongside crew member of Lancaster on ORB , whom I knew to be bomb aimer? as ever my thanks in advance. Paul
Went thru all my books ( glossary of terms ) and found nil. I then put some feelers out on other forums and came up with this.
"I am no expert on the Lancaster, but isnt the 2nd A/B the Air Navigator Bombardier. I think the Canadians had a 2nd Air Navigators Bombardier."
From Goose, on the Flight Global Airspace Forum.
Regards, John
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I think that from early/mid 1944, some PFF crews had what was known as a 2nd bomb aimer (a.k.a. Air Bomber). I suspect that he was concerned primarily with the task of 'blind bombing', or bombing with aid only of the H2S radar.
Hopefully someone else can provide a more comprehensive answer.
Hi Mike, Spot on. I've been looking through orbs for 35 squadron PFF (Graveley) for 1944. My father flew as a w/op, but I noticed that the bomb aimer had 2nd A/B after his listing. Out of interest are you connected to pathfinders? Anything that I can get to increase my knowledge about my late father's ww2 activities are always welcome. regards Paul. (about 5 miles from RAF Graveley)
The first husband of my grandmother was an Air Bomber with 156 Sqn PFF. Arrived at Warboys at the start of Jan 1944 and was killed on the 24th of February 1944. I don't think that the policy of 2 Air Bombers was in operation during this time though his crew certainly were involved in the various roles assigned to PFF crews e.g. supporters, blind markers, backers-up etc. I have a copy of the Warboys ORB for the stated period that describes the marking plan for each raid. I can send if required.
Hi Mike, thanks for your reply-yes I would love to see copies of warboys orb's. My father spent a few months there between postings prior to becoming operational at Graveley. I'll put my e-mail address on your whiteboard. many thanks, Paul
