Log book of an RAF Air Gunner

F. Satherley of 462 Squadron's log book to be sold in September

RAF 462 Squadron log book

Gunner Frederick George Satherley of RAF 462 Squadron's Logbook to be sold September 2021.

WWII era logbooks make for fascinating reading and one example along with related items previously belonging to air gunner Frederick George Satherley, of RAF 462 Squadron has arrived at the saleroom to be sold as part of our 9th September 2021 arms and militaria sale.

Click here to preview the 9th September 2021 Arms and Militaria sale. 

The logbook begins on May 13th 1944 and runs through to February 1946, recording over forty flights over enemy territory in the Halifax III bomber piloted by Andy Anderson. Satherley records bombing runs, flak, and fighter sightings, ‘Hagen (Railway Centre) 9000lbs light flak, 1 attack (JU88)’ also ‘Mannhaim, heavy flak, hit on bomb bay, 2 – 500 lbs, and ‘Essen, Industrial Centre, plenty of flak, large fires, and fighters, 9000lbs’

RAF 462 Squadron log book

One of the most significant entries to the log book is on the 14th April 1945 when the Halifax III Satherley was flying in had to crash land near Liege after the starboard outer engine failed forty-five minutes from target and the starboard inner engine cut out over the target as the bomb doors closed. For landing his plane and saving his crew skipper Andy Anderson was awarded the D.F.C.

RAF 462 Squadron log book

Alongside the logbook are Frederick Satherley’s Defence medal, 1939-1945 medal, 1939-1945 star, and France and Germany Star all in the original postage box. Also his RAF Service and Release book, a photograph of Satherley (top left) with aircrew, a later air gunner badge, copper plaque and patch. The lot also accompanied by typed research of Squadron 462 B Flight skipper Andy Anderson, compiled by Bill Johnson.

RAF 462 Squadron log book

Frederick Satherley of RAF 462 Squadron. 

Frederick George Satherley was born in Gloucestershire on the 28th August 1920. During his air gunnery training in 1944 he met Jennie Armstrong whilst stationed in Whitley Bay and married on the 27th September 1945 after the conclusion of WWII. Following his RAF service Frederick Satherley worked as an HGV driver for the Esso Company serving the company for 30 years and then briefly for North Tyneside Metropolitan Borough Council before retiring. They lived in Monkseaton, just outside Whitley Bay throughout their working lives before retiring to Spain where Frederick passed away on the 13th February 1996 after a short illness.

The logbook and related items go on sale with a presale estimate of £250 – 450. Should you have any items you would like to add to this auction we would be pleased to hear from you. Please contact Chris Large on 01270 623878 or email chris@wilson55.com

 

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