In the second mission of the day, 36 B-26 plus 2 spares were dispatched to attack an enemy Marshaling Yard at Arras, France. Each aircraft was loaded with 4x1000LB General Purpose bombs, with RAF Spitfires providing fighter escort.

This mission was unusual because the group was instructed to bomb by 3 boxes consisting of flights of 4 instead of the usual 6 aircraft. 3 aircraft returned to base before reaching the enemy coast with severe mechanical problems.

Weather conditions were hazy over the English Channel and 30 miles inland of the enemy coast. Shortly after crossing the French coast; Heavy, Moderate, Accurate FLAK was encountered over the Dieppe area. Lt. Aldridge's aircraft was hit in the right wing and soon after left the formation. Perhaps 4 parachutes were seen before the aircraft hit the ground and exploded. It was later established that 4 of the 6 crew had survived.

Later, as the formation crossed Londinieres and over the target area, the formation again experienced Heavy, Moderate, Accurate FLAK. No crew members were wounded but 20 aircraft received battle damage. The records show 10 enemy aircraft were destroyed, but the lack of supporting paperwork suggest that perhaps these aircraft were shot down by the escorting fighters.

135 bombs were dropped on the primary target with results judged as very good.

The usual complaints continue, with Lt. Danforth commenting after both of today's missions that the crew want "Liberty Runs into Romford". We can only wonder what delights this large, market town in Essex held for his crew !