a GERMAN Air Gunner with Bomber Command

[MerchantSeaman]

Now if I were a young German living in the UK before and during WW2 I'd expect life to be difficult, especially if I'd been named Hans Heinz Schwarz and my parents also had very Germanic names like Erich & Elli Schwarz, even if they had lived in Cricklewood, North West London for a few years.

I cant imagine what sort of guts it took for young Hans Heinz Schwarz to join the RAF and in 1944 for him to fly missions over Germany as a 19 year old Sergeant (Air Gunner) on a Lancaster bomber. I dont know how he managed it for one, when most Germanic types were interned.

On the night 12/13 Aug 1944 he was flying as a Gunner and as operator of a special radar navigational aid aboard Lancaster PB258 (V for Victory) when it was shot down by a nightfighter over Belgium on a raid to Braunschweig where the SS Officers Academy was based. He was one of the 2 crewmen killed.

Somewhere out there in a medal collection (because it has been sold) is a boxed WW2 group 1939/45 Star, France & Germany Star, Defence Medal, War Medal with condolence slip and his Flying Log Book. The book had the name BLAKE on the front cover, presumably that was his attempt to try to cover himself just in case he was shot down and taken prisoner. The thought is nasty and the courage beggars belief.

[SHEARING-CROSS]

hiya ,
thanks again for another interesting post .......what do you think would have been the outcome if he had been captured alive
regards ,Michael.

[Adrian Stevenson]

Hi Pete, an interesting post. I can add a little light on Germans/Austrians, often of Jewish background, serving in the British forces as I have the privillage of knowing several who are still alive. One sadly passed away this year.

All were interned on the outbreak of war. Later the Govt relented to their constant requests to take part in the war, and allowed enlistment in the Pioneer Corps. This was a welcome first step but most wanted to fight and not just build Nissen huts! All the Vets I know served in the XXI Indep. Para. Coy. They were allowed to volunteer for the airborne forces as it was finally realised that native German speakers might be useful in a unit that was to be deployed behind enemy lines. Most joined in what was called the "language draft" in late 1942 /early 1943. All had to change their names for obvious reasons. Capture would mean a bullet in the back of the neck... Most retain their Anglisied names today. There is a myth that Scots names were chosen, some were, but not all by any means.

I have not heard of any RAF aircrew before of "German" background, but I do not see why not, as it is no more dangerous than being a Pathfinder?

Cheers, Ade.