AA38404 Corgi Bristol Blenheim MK I The Bish, Greece

In April 1938, 211 Sqn embarked for the Middle East. It undertook its first operations in June 1940 against Italian targets in Libya and continued until November 1940 when the squadron was sent to assist the Greeks following the Italian invasion of that country. The CO was Sqn Ldr J. Gordon-Finlayson (“The Bish”) flying Blenheim L8511. This aircraft was badly damaged in action and made a forced landing. The crew were reported missing, but were in fact marooned on an island. Days later after an eventful journey they returned. For this action “The Bish” was awarded the DFC. Very soon he was back in the air in L6670, a replacement aircraft transferred from 84 Sqn. Shortly afterwards, on 2nd December, he flew L6670 to attack Valona harbour and returned safely despite damage to the aircraft caused by defending enemy fighters. He continued to fly throughout the winter in what were extremely difficult weather conditions, over mountainous terrain. In March 1941 “The Bish” was awarded the DSO and promoted to Wing Commander.