Family Card - Person Sheet
Family Card - Person Sheet
NameDouglas Victor SYMONDSON, 2C1R
Birth14 Jan 1917
Baptism4 Mar 1917
Death6 Apr 1977, Liverpool, Lancashire, England
FatherHenry Norman SYMONDSON (1890-1961)
MotherDora Gwendoline READ (1893-1975)
Notes for Douglas Victor SYMONDSON
Known as Victor.
In the January to March 1917 birth index Douglas V. Symondson, mother’s maiden name Read, Willisden district, Hertfordshire, volume 3a, page 477.
Parish Records - Saint Michael, Cricklewood, Saint Michael’s Road, Brent, London
Born January 14 1917, baptism March 4 1917 Douglas Victor Symondson, parents Henry Norman Symondson and Dora Gwendoline Symondson, abode 3 Gladstone Park Gardens, father is a clerk, ceremony b y Ivor Roberts
1939 England and Wales Register
150 Christchurch Avenue, Kenton, Harrow, Middlesex
1. Henry N. Symondson, born January 22 1890, married, manager towel supply company
2. Dora G. Symondson, born February 25 1893, married, unpaid domestic duties
3. Douglas V. Symondson, born January 14 1917, single, assistant storekeeper electrical equipment
4. Record Officially closed [Possibly Sydney Norman Symondson]
In the April to June 1942 marriage index Douglas V. Symondson and Elizabeth M. D. Morton, Hendon, Middlesex, volume 3a, page 1850
Distinguished Flying Medal WWII
No. 905674 Flight Sergeant, 114 Squadron Douglas Victor Symondson
L.G. February 26, 1943 Wireless Operator/Air Gunner\Press Release
Flight Sergeant Symondson has a meritorious record as a Wireless Operator/Air Gunner in three different theatres of war. He has taken part in all types of bombing operations including attacks on enemy shipping.;
London Gazette August 24 1943
Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
To be Pilot Officers on probation (emergency):
Flight Sergeants
905674 Douglas Victor Symondson D.F.M. (148812) 9th April 1943
British Air Force
Air Gunners and Wireless Operators (Air)
Flying Officers
D. V. Symondson, D.F.M. (w) October 9, 1943
London Electoral Registers 1946
150 Christchurch Avenue, Harrow
Dora G. Symondson
Henry N. Symondson
Douglas V. Symondson
Elizabeth Mary D. Symondson
London Electoral Registers 1949
22a Kenton Park Parade, Kenton Road, Harrow
Douglas V. Symondson
Elizabeth M Symondson
In the April to June 1977 death index Douglas Victor Symondson, Liverpool, Merseyside, volume 36, page 0785, born January 14 1917.
National Probate Calendar
Douglas Victor Symondson of Rosebank Greenbank Waterloo Liverpool died 6 April 1977 Administration Liverpool 26 August 1977
Excerpts from
UK Royal Air Force Operations Record Books
No. 101 Squadron
Nationality India? [Not sure what these means.]
West Raynham
July 10, 1940
enemy attack, 3 Avro Ansons and 1 Gladiator lost
Aircraft Type and Number, Crew, Duty, Time Up, Time Down, Details of Sortie or Flight
July 20, 1940
Blenheim IV L9419, P/O Dunnicliffe: Sgt. Miles: Sgt Symondson, not recorded, 1230, 1352, To attack aerodromes at INGLEVERT but returned owing to lack of cloud cover.
August 5, 1940
P6955, P/O Dunnicliffe: Sgt. Miles: Sgt Symondson, Le Bourget, 0525, 0655, This aircraft returned owing to lack of cloud cover.
September 18, 1940
N6141, S/L T.B. Morton: SGT. R.S. Miles: Sgt. D.B. [I think a typo] Symondson, Dunkirk Harbour Night, 2116, 2255, Target attacked with 2x250 and 12x40 lb bombs
October 10 1940
T2039, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. R.W. Rush: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, CC29, 2150, 0005, Primary target not located owing to cloud. Aircraft searched for A1P and located CC37 at 12,000 feet, glided to 7000 feet and bombed searchlights an CC37 area
October 12 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. R.W. Rush: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, CC24, 1833, 2215, Aircraft approached in a glide from 13000ft to 6000ft before releasing bombs.
Bursts observed between Bassin D’ and Bassin Bellot.
October 15 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. R.W. Rush: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, CC24, 1910, 2228, Primary target not located owing to 10/10 cloud. Aircraft followed French coast to Cap Grisnez and bombed gun positions. Results not observed. Intense Flak fire and searchlight activity before and after release of bombs.
October 20, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. R.W. Rush: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, CC7, 1824, 2032, Aircraft did not locate target after a search lasting 20 minutes. A/C set course for base and jettisoned bombs safely in sea on return flight.
October 24, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. R.W. Rush: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, H. of H., 0310, 0525, Target approached at 10,000ft and located after 20 minutes flying in the area. A/C bombed from 9,500 ft, stick seemed to fall along quay. Fire observed in Quay.
October 26, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. D.B. Clifford: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, Z57 0215, 0443, Target located and bombed from 10,000ft. Results not observed
October 27, 1940
West Raynham attacked - 6 Blenheims, 1 Battle and 1 Tutor damaged. The Satellite also attacked 1 Blenheim destroyed, 11 damaged, 4 killed 3 seriously hurt, 4 minor injuries. 1 hut destroyed, 1 damaged
November 8, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.C. Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, Gelson Kuchen (oil), 2009, 0030, Primary target attacked from 13,000 ft. Burst of one bomb observed.
November 15, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.C. Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, A.S., 1720, 1954, Task abandoned owing to heavy cloud and icing up of aircraft. Bombs jettisoned in sea and aircraft returned to base.
November 20, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.C. Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, Antwerp, 0855, 1025, Task abandoned - no cloud cover [6 aircraft with the same details]
November 24, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.C. Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, M434, 2011, 0035, Primary target reached, bombed from 15,000 ft at 2146 hrs. Results not observed.
November 25, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.C. Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, D1 1650, 2145, Target attacked from 15,000ft at 1921 hrs. Four bursts observed in target area.
December 3, 1940
P/O A.D. McLaren promoted to Flying Officer.
December 5, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.C. Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, E6, 0348, 0639, Primary target not located owing to intense cloud. Unable to locate any alternative or last resort target so bombs brought back.
December 7, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.E. [Typo?] Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, A376, 1933, 2232, Task abandoned owing to failure of W/T operators telephone. Bombs brought back.
December 20, 1940
T2234, F/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.C. Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, Gelson-Kerchen, 0417, 0754, Primary attacked from 14,000 feet at 0620 one burst in target area. Nickels dropped in areas A71 and M435.
also
T2234, F/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.C. Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, Enemy Aerodromes, 1716, 2004, Flarepath lights on Lille Nord bombed from 1,000’ By incorrect bomb selection 4 flares 1 delay 250 lb and 6 forty lb bombs dropped. Aircraft seen dispersed around perimeter of aerodrome.
January 1, 1941
T2234, F/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.C. Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, Z.162, 0835, 1224, Target not reached owing to encounter with ME110 just inland of Cape de Flamanville, about 6 miles SW of Cherbourg. Our aircraft evaded into cloud. Bombs brought back.
February 4, 1941
No aircraft number given, F/L A.D. McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Aerodromes Beat 2, 1745, 2045, This aircraft attacked Lille Nord aerodrome from 1100ft and observed bursts.
February 14, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, A73, 1810, 2145, Primary target not seen owing to cloud and ground haze. Bombed on E.T.A. from 12000ft. Flashes of bursts observed
February 15, 1942
T2234, F/L Hill: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, A73, 1856?, 2226, Attacked primary target from 10,000 feet and saw bursts and a glow in the target area.
[Note change of pilot]
February 28, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Kipper, 2145, 0155, Target attacked from 10,000 ft. No results seen owing to 9/10 cloud.
March 14 (or 15), 1941
T2234, Sgt. Burrows: Sgt. Birdsell: Sgt. Symondson, Perch, 2020, 0035, Primary target bombed from 13000 ft at 2240 hrs results not observed on account of a bright flare which was shot up to just below the aircraft.
[Note change of crew]
March 18, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Wilhelmshaven, 1931, 0015, Target attacked from 15000 - 10000’. Small fires started and one fire seen burning 70 miles from target.
March 23, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Hanover 1955, 0145, Primary target attacked from 12000 - 15000’. Results unobserved owing to fact that big fires were already burning.
April 6, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Patrol of Enemy Aerodromes in Occupied Territory, Schipol, Soesterberg Gilze, 2015, 2235, The task was abandoned by these aircraft owing to bad weather conditions the five sorties which were ordered in addition to these were cancelled.
also [perhaps replacing the original sortie.]
Blenheim Mark IV. T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, AERODROMES, 2014, 2232, Primary Target Area abandoned owing to bad weather. Flare Path TLJK 2532 attacked with full bomb load at 2123 hours from 600 ft. Flare Path and all lights extinguished.
April 7, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Bremerhaven, 2040, 0030, Primary target attacked from S to N at 2248 hrs from 12000 feet. Bursts were observed just south of fire already burning.
April 8, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Bremerhaven, 2035, 0030, Primary target attacked from 12000 ft. Results unobserved owing to FLAK.
[Seems to have been entered twice, slightly differently]
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Attack of Bremerhaven, 2041, 0031, Primary attacked between 2237 hours and 2237 hours from 9000’ to 13000’. Results unobserved owing to Flak.
April 11, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, CC49, 0140, 0510, Target attacked from 13,000 feet at 0405 hours. Bombs dropped in centre of FLAK barrage. No results observed through 10/10 cloud.
April 15, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Patrol of Beat 13, 1239, 1331, Returned. Unable to contact remainder of Formation.
April 17, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Cherbourgh, 1435, 1755,
The total sorties for to-days operations ie 12, A/C from 101 Squadron and 6 A/C from 18 Squadron in 3 boxes of 6 and protected by strong fighter escort attacked CHERBOURGH.
The operation was highly successful. All Aircraft except one bombed, and bursts were observed on Nos 4 and 5 Docks. Smoke and several fires were seen as Aircraft left. Height of attack 13000 feet from 1633 to 1635 hours.
The pilot whose bombs failed to release remained with the formation and brought his bombs back to BASE. A;; A/C returned safely.
[Note the attack seemed to be lead by W/Comm Mc Dougall.]
April 19, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Sweep on BEAT 9, 0852, 1046, Attacked two camouflaged Ships of about 2,500 Tons at 31 degs 46’ N. 03 degs 34’ E. with 4x250 G.P. 11 seconds delay bombs. Near misses observed.
[Another entry added.]
Attacked two camouflaged ships of about 2,500 tons at 5146 N. 03ยบ34’ E steaming N.E. at 10 knots in line astern. P6906 observed near misses. Gunned ship, and gun crews believed hit.
April 21, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, L218, A, 0630, 1023, This formation [6 planes - seemingly lead by S/Ldr Cree]] did not locate primary target owing to it being obscured by cloud. Small Ships in the Harbour at QUETTEHOU, were attacked at 0855 hours with 24x250 lb and 24x40 lb bombs from 7000 feet. Bombs were seen to overshoot the Harbour, but were observed to burst along the railhead beside the Docks.
April 25, 1941
F/Lt Mc Laren. 744949 Sgt, a/obs, A. Meadows. 905674 Sgt, W.op/ A. G. Symondson. posted to 13, O.T.U.
[D. V. Symondson was a Wireless Operator/Air Gunner]
By June 101 Squadron was flying Vickers Wellingtons
end of excerpts from 101 squadron
See wikipedia 101 squadron https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/No._101_Squadron_RAF
also Britol Blenheim https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bristol_Blenheim
The 114 Squadron Operations book don’t seen to give information about individual flights
By May 1943 D.V. Symondson was with 13 Squadron
Excerpts 13 Squadron Record Books
Blida, Algeria, 323 Wing, 242 Group
June 8, 1943
Blenheim V BB.149 O, F/O W.A.L. Swan: F/O F. W. Mason: F/SGT. Symondson D. E. [I think a typo] DFM, U-Boat Hunt, 0705, 1106, unveventful
June 13, 1943
Blenheim V T BB.184, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, Convoy Escort, 0759, 1157, uneventful
June 20, 1943
Blenheim V X BB.998, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, U-Boat Hunt, 1728, 2058, uneventful
June 22, 1943
M BA.987, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, U-Boat Hunt, 1028, 1440, Uneventful
June 23, 1943
K BH.353, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, U-Boat Hunt, 0959, 1415, Uneventful
June 27, 1943
X BA.998F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, U-Boat Hunt, 1729, 2105, uneventful
June 29, 1943
T BB.184, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, Convoy Escort, 0757, 1128, uneventful
July 2, 1943
T BB.184, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, Convoy Escort, 0930, 1340, uneventful
July 16, 1943
C BB.165, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, Convoy Escort, 0728, 1130, uneventful
July 21, 1943
F BB.172, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, U-Boat Hunt, 0700, 1100, uneventful
August 2, 1943
K EH.553, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, Convoy Escort, Uneventful
August 8, 1943
K EH.353, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, U-Boat Hunt, 1028, 1429, Uneventful
August 17, 1943
C BB.165, S/Ldr J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, Convoy Escort, 0920, 1325, uneventful
August 21, 1943
C BB.165, S/Ldr J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, Convoy Escort, 1005, 1420, uneventful
August 26, 1943
H EH.322, S/Ldr J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, Convoy Escort, 1015, 1430, uneventful
August 28, 1943
H EH.322, S/Ldr J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, U Boat Hunt, 0845, 1245, Nothing seen
September 6, 1943
S/Ldr. J.B. Coates DFC and crew posted to H.Q. N.A.C.A.F. [Northwest African Coastal Air Force]
Another source says Douglas Symondson was with 114 Squadron in North Africa from November 1942 to May 1943 and with 13 Squadron May 43 to August 1943.
In the January to March 1917 birth index Douglas V. Symondson, mother’s maiden name Read, Willisden district, Hertfordshire, volume 3a, page 477.
Parish Records - Saint Michael, Cricklewood, Saint Michael’s Road, Brent, London
Born January 14 1917, baptism March 4 1917 Douglas Victor Symondson, parents Henry Norman Symondson and Dora Gwendoline Symondson, abode 3 Gladstone Park Gardens, father is a clerk, ceremony b y Ivor Roberts
1939 England and Wales Register
150 Christchurch Avenue, Kenton, Harrow, Middlesex
1. Henry N. Symondson, born January 22 1890, married, manager towel supply company
2. Dora G. Symondson, born February 25 1893, married, unpaid domestic duties
3. Douglas V. Symondson, born January 14 1917, single, assistant storekeeper electrical equipment
4. Record Officially closed [Possibly Sydney Norman Symondson]
In the April to June 1942 marriage index Douglas V. Symondson and Elizabeth M. D. Morton, Hendon, Middlesex, volume 3a, page 1850
Distinguished Flying Medal WWII
No. 905674 Flight Sergeant, 114 Squadron Douglas Victor Symondson
L.G. February 26, 1943 Wireless Operator/Air Gunner\Press Release
Flight Sergeant Symondson has a meritorious record as a Wireless Operator/Air Gunner in three different theatres of war. He has taken part in all types of bombing operations including attacks on enemy shipping.;
London Gazette August 24 1943
Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
To be Pilot Officers on probation (emergency):
Flight Sergeants
905674 Douglas Victor Symondson D.F.M. (148812) 9th April 1943
British Air Force
Air Gunners and Wireless Operators (Air)
Flying Officers
D. V. Symondson, D.F.M. (w) October 9, 1943
London Electoral Registers 1946
150 Christchurch Avenue, Harrow
Dora G. Symondson
Henry N. Symondson
Douglas V. Symondson
Elizabeth Mary D. Symondson
London Electoral Registers 1949
22a Kenton Park Parade, Kenton Road, Harrow
Douglas V. Symondson
Elizabeth M Symondson
In the April to June 1977 death index Douglas Victor Symondson, Liverpool, Merseyside, volume 36, page 0785, born January 14 1917.
National Probate Calendar
Douglas Victor Symondson of Rosebank Greenbank Waterloo Liverpool died 6 April 1977 Administration Liverpool 26 August 1977
Excerpts from
UK Royal Air Force Operations Record Books
No. 101 Squadron
Nationality India? [Not sure what these means.]
West Raynham
July 10, 1940
enemy attack, 3 Avro Ansons and 1 Gladiator lost
Aircraft Type and Number, Crew, Duty, Time Up, Time Down, Details of Sortie or Flight
July 20, 1940
Blenheim IV L9419, P/O Dunnicliffe: Sgt. Miles: Sgt Symondson, not recorded, 1230, 1352, To attack aerodromes at INGLEVERT but returned owing to lack of cloud cover.
August 5, 1940
P6955, P/O Dunnicliffe: Sgt. Miles: Sgt Symondson, Le Bourget, 0525, 0655, This aircraft returned owing to lack of cloud cover.
September 18, 1940
N6141, S/L T.B. Morton: SGT. R.S. Miles: Sgt. D.B. [I think a typo] Symondson, Dunkirk Harbour Night, 2116, 2255, Target attacked with 2x250 and 12x40 lb bombs
October 10 1940
T2039, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. R.W. Rush: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, CC29, 2150, 0005, Primary target not located owing to cloud. Aircraft searched for A1P and located CC37 at 12,000 feet, glided to 7000 feet and bombed searchlights an CC37 area
October 12 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. R.W. Rush: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, CC24, 1833, 2215, Aircraft approached in a glide from 13000ft to 6000ft before releasing bombs.
Bursts observed between Bassin D’ and Bassin Bellot.
October 15 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. R.W. Rush: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, CC24, 1910, 2228, Primary target not located owing to 10/10 cloud. Aircraft followed French coast to Cap Grisnez and bombed gun positions. Results not observed. Intense Flak fire and searchlight activity before and after release of bombs.
October 20, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. R.W. Rush: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, CC7, 1824, 2032, Aircraft did not locate target after a search lasting 20 minutes. A/C set course for base and jettisoned bombs safely in sea on return flight.
October 24, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. R.W. Rush: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, H. of H., 0310, 0525, Target approached at 10,000ft and located after 20 minutes flying in the area. A/C bombed from 9,500 ft, stick seemed to fall along quay. Fire observed in Quay.
October 26, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. D.B. Clifford: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, Z57 0215, 0443, Target located and bombed from 10,000ft. Results not observed
October 27, 1940
West Raynham attacked - 6 Blenheims, 1 Battle and 1 Tutor damaged. The Satellite also attacked 1 Blenheim destroyed, 11 damaged, 4 killed 3 seriously hurt, 4 minor injuries. 1 hut destroyed, 1 damaged
November 8, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.C. Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, Gelson Kuchen (oil), 2009, 0030, Primary target attacked from 13,000 ft. Burst of one bomb observed.
November 15, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.C. Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, A.S., 1720, 1954, Task abandoned owing to heavy cloud and icing up of aircraft. Bombs jettisoned in sea and aircraft returned to base.
November 20, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.C. Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, Antwerp, 0855, 1025, Task abandoned - no cloud cover [6 aircraft with the same details]
November 24, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.C. Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, M434, 2011, 0035, Primary target reached, bombed from 15,000 ft at 2146 hrs. Results not observed.
November 25, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.C. Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, D1 1650, 2145, Target attacked from 15,000ft at 1921 hrs. Four bursts observed in target area.
December 3, 1940
P/O A.D. McLaren promoted to Flying Officer.
December 5, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.C. Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, E6, 0348, 0639, Primary target not located owing to intense cloud. Unable to locate any alternative or last resort target so bombs brought back.
December 7, 1940
T2234, P/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.E. [Typo?] Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, A376, 1933, 2232, Task abandoned owing to failure of W/T operators telephone. Bombs brought back.
December 20, 1940
T2234, F/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.C. Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, Gelson-Kerchen, 0417, 0754, Primary attacked from 14,000 feet at 0620 one burst in target area. Nickels dropped in areas A71 and M435.
also
T2234, F/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.C. Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, Enemy Aerodromes, 1716, 2004, Flarepath lights on Lille Nord bombed from 1,000’ By incorrect bomb selection 4 flares 1 delay 250 lb and 6 forty lb bombs dropped. Aircraft seen dispersed around perimeter of aerodrome.
January 1, 1941
T2234, F/O A.D. McLaren: Sgt. A.C. Meadows: Sgt. D.V. Symondson, Z.162, 0835, 1224, Target not reached owing to encounter with ME110 just inland of Cape de Flamanville, about 6 miles SW of Cherbourg. Our aircraft evaded into cloud. Bombs brought back.
February 4, 1941
No aircraft number given, F/L A.D. McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Aerodromes Beat 2, 1745, 2045, This aircraft attacked Lille Nord aerodrome from 1100ft and observed bursts.
February 14, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, A73, 1810, 2145, Primary target not seen owing to cloud and ground haze. Bombed on E.T.A. from 12000ft. Flashes of bursts observed
February 15, 1942
T2234, F/L Hill: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, A73, 1856?, 2226, Attacked primary target from 10,000 feet and saw bursts and a glow in the target area.
[Note change of pilot]
February 28, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Kipper, 2145, 0155, Target attacked from 10,000 ft. No results seen owing to 9/10 cloud.
March 14 (or 15), 1941
T2234, Sgt. Burrows: Sgt. Birdsell: Sgt. Symondson, Perch, 2020, 0035, Primary target bombed from 13000 ft at 2240 hrs results not observed on account of a bright flare which was shot up to just below the aircraft.
[Note change of crew]
March 18, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Wilhelmshaven, 1931, 0015, Target attacked from 15000 - 10000’. Small fires started and one fire seen burning 70 miles from target.
March 23, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Hanover 1955, 0145, Primary target attacked from 12000 - 15000’. Results unobserved owing to fact that big fires were already burning.
April 6, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Patrol of Enemy Aerodromes in Occupied Territory, Schipol, Soesterberg Gilze, 2015, 2235, The task was abandoned by these aircraft owing to bad weather conditions the five sorties which were ordered in addition to these were cancelled.
also [perhaps replacing the original sortie.]
Blenheim Mark IV. T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, AERODROMES, 2014, 2232, Primary Target Area abandoned owing to bad weather. Flare Path TLJK 2532 attacked with full bomb load at 2123 hours from 600 ft. Flare Path and all lights extinguished.
April 7, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Bremerhaven, 2040, 0030, Primary target attacked from S to N at 2248 hrs from 12000 feet. Bursts were observed just south of fire already burning.
April 8, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Bremerhaven, 2035, 0030, Primary target attacked from 12000 ft. Results unobserved owing to FLAK.
[Seems to have been entered twice, slightly differently]
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Attack of Bremerhaven, 2041, 0031, Primary attacked between 2237 hours and 2237 hours from 9000’ to 13000’. Results unobserved owing to Flak.
April 11, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, CC49, 0140, 0510, Target attacked from 13,000 feet at 0405 hours. Bombs dropped in centre of FLAK barrage. No results observed through 10/10 cloud.
April 15, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Patrol of Beat 13, 1239, 1331, Returned. Unable to contact remainder of Formation.
April 17, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Cherbourgh, 1435, 1755,
The total sorties for to-days operations ie 12, A/C from 101 Squadron and 6 A/C from 18 Squadron in 3 boxes of 6 and protected by strong fighter escort attacked CHERBOURGH.
The operation was highly successful. All Aircraft except one bombed, and bursts were observed on Nos 4 and 5 Docks. Smoke and several fires were seen as Aircraft left. Height of attack 13000 feet from 1633 to 1635 hours.
The pilot whose bombs failed to release remained with the formation and brought his bombs back to BASE. A;; A/C returned safely.
[Note the attack seemed to be lead by W/Comm Mc Dougall.]
April 19, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, Sweep on BEAT 9, 0852, 1046, Attacked two camouflaged Ships of about 2,500 Tons at 31 degs 46’ N. 03 degs 34’ E. with 4x250 G.P. 11 seconds delay bombs. Near misses observed.
[Another entry added.]
Attacked two camouflaged ships of about 2,500 tons at 5146 N. 03ยบ34’ E steaming N.E. at 10 knots in line astern. P6906 observed near misses. Gunned ship, and gun crews believed hit.
April 21, 1941
T2234, F/L McLaren: Sgt. Meadows: Sgt. Symondson, L218, A, 0630, 1023, This formation [6 planes - seemingly lead by S/Ldr Cree]] did not locate primary target owing to it being obscured by cloud. Small Ships in the Harbour at QUETTEHOU, were attacked at 0855 hours with 24x250 lb and 24x40 lb bombs from 7000 feet. Bombs were seen to overshoot the Harbour, but were observed to burst along the railhead beside the Docks.
April 25, 1941
F/Lt Mc Laren. 744949 Sgt, a/obs, A. Meadows. 905674 Sgt, W.op/ A. G. Symondson. posted to 13, O.T.U.
[D. V. Symondson was a Wireless Operator/Air Gunner]
By June 101 Squadron was flying Vickers Wellingtons
end of excerpts from 101 squadron
See wikipedia 101 squadron https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/No._101_Squadron_RAF
also Britol Blenheim https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bristol_Blenheim
The 114 Squadron Operations book don’t seen to give information about individual flights
By May 1943 D.V. Symondson was with 13 Squadron
Excerpts 13 Squadron Record Books
Blida, Algeria, 323 Wing, 242 Group
June 8, 1943
Blenheim V BB.149 O, F/O W.A.L. Swan: F/O F. W. Mason: F/SGT. Symondson D. E. [I think a typo] DFM, U-Boat Hunt, 0705, 1106, unveventful
June 13, 1943
Blenheim V T BB.184, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, Convoy Escort, 0759, 1157, uneventful
June 20, 1943
Blenheim V X BB.998, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, U-Boat Hunt, 1728, 2058, uneventful
June 22, 1943
M BA.987, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, U-Boat Hunt, 1028, 1440, Uneventful
June 23, 1943
K BH.353, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, U-Boat Hunt, 0959, 1415, Uneventful
June 27, 1943
X BA.998F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, U-Boat Hunt, 1729, 2105, uneventful
June 29, 1943
T BB.184, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, Convoy Escort, 0757, 1128, uneventful
July 2, 1943
T BB.184, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, Convoy Escort, 0930, 1340, uneventful
July 16, 1943
C BB.165, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, Convoy Escort, 0728, 1130, uneventful
July 21, 1943
F BB.172, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, U-Boat Hunt, 0700, 1100, uneventful
August 2, 1943
K EH.553, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, Convoy Escort, Uneventful
August 8, 1943
K EH.353, F/L J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, U-Boat Hunt, 1028, 1429, Uneventful
August 17, 1943
C BB.165, S/Ldr J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, Convoy Escort, 0920, 1325, uneventful
August 21, 1943
C BB.165, S/Ldr J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, Convoy Escort, 1005, 1420, uneventful
August 26, 1943
H EH.322, S/Ldr J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, Convoy Escort, 1015, 1430, uneventful
August 28, 1943
H EH.322, S/Ldr J.B. Coates DFC: P/O F.W. Mason: F/S Symondson D.E. DFM, U Boat Hunt, 0845, 1245, Nothing seen
September 6, 1943
S/Ldr. J.B. Coates DFC and crew posted to H.Q. N.A.C.A.F. [Northwest African Coastal Air Force]
Another source says Douglas Symondson was with 114 Squadron in North Africa from November 1942 to May 1943 and with 13 Squadron May 43 to August 1943.