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[TALK:] A unique local take on the Dambusters raid of WW2

Monday 11 November 2019, 17:23
By John Baxter

One of Jerry Fray's photos

Janet Fray and Andrew Jenkins will be giving a talk on the Dambusters raid of World War II to the Wincanton Museum and History Society, on Friday 29th November at Wincanton Memorial Hall, 7pm.

“From a rugby game to the Dams.”
One man's story of aerial reconnaissance, including planning the raid.

Janet has lived locally for many years. She was married to Jerry, a retired RAF Squadron Leader and holder of the Distinguished Flying Cross, whose vital role related to the Dambusters raid was kept secret until 2001.

Now Janet, who will be assisted by author Andrew Jenkins who has researched Jerry’s story for his book Wheels Down, can tell us about his amazing war-time service in aerial reconnaissance and how, on his 36th mission, he flew his blue-painted Spitfire alone and unarmed over enemy territory.

As a result he brought back a dramatic set of photographs which clearly show the devastation caused. These were widely published in the press and raised war-time morale at a time when it was sorely needed.

This is the first time that Janet, who met and got to know many of the RAF survivors, has given this talk, so it should really be something special.

It will be in Wincanton Memorial Hall. Entry £5; members £2. Refreshments, included, at 7pm followed by the talk.




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