Improbable Victory by Tim Fisher [Original Painting]

1st June 1940 - Pete Peters fights off an overwhelming attack over Dunkirk and destroys three fighters. Anson MKV flown by pilot officer Phillip Peters was leading a patrol of three Ansons of No.500 Royal Auxiliary Air Force Squadron over Dunkirk at the time the British Expeditionary Force was evacuating from the beaches. He was flying at around 50ft when his mid upper gunner reported that nine Bf109s were attacking. Dropping to wave-top height the slow obsolescent twin engined aircraft tried to shake off their pursuers. Two planes were severely damaged and Peters sent them home, leaving his own aircraft at the mercy of the enemy fighters. It was at this point that Peters was grateful for his 'secret weapons'. In addition to the Anson's nose gun and mid upper turret, guns had been fitted projecting out of the sides of the aircraft's long 'greenhouse' cabin. The extra guns were manned by the co-pilot and wireless operator. By throttling back and executing a number of skid turns Peters was able to out manoeuvre the enemy and allow his crew to fire on the attackers. The first Bf109 was finished off with the nose gun as it did a stall turn in front off the aircraft. The second was shot down into the sea. A third attacker sustained heavy damage and turned tail with the other pursuers. Peters set course for Detling. The news of the battle went on ahead of his arrival and he was greeted by applause and cheering of the squadron personnel. When the aircraft was inspected, only one bullet hole was found. It wasn't until later when he had his parachute repacked that another armour piercing bullet was found lodged in the silk. For the attack and morale boosting effect for the rest of the squadron, Peters was awarded the DFC. The remaining crew, Sergeant Spencer, Corporal Smith, Leading Aircraftsman Dillnutt and Leading Aircraftsman Cunningham all received the Distinguished Flying Medal.

Original painting by Tim Fisher.

Image size 36 inches x 24 inches (91cm x 61cm)