Tribute to the 617 Sqn Dambusters Crew of Lancaster AJ-L by David Pentland. [Original Drawing]

DP0204P. Tribute to the 617 Sqn Dambusters Crew of Lancaster AJ-L by David Pentland.

The image shows Lancaster AJ-L lining up for the attack on the Eder dam. Alongside is the portrait of AJ-L pilot Flt Lt D J Shannon. The first aircraft to attempt an attack the Eder dam, AJ-L made several unsuccessful attempts at lining up to drop the bomb, hampered by the difficult approach to the dam. After allowing AJ-Z to drop its bomb, AJ-L made a final successful attack on the dam, its bomb exploding accurately, but failing to cause a breach. The aircraft returned to base safely.

Crew of L for Leather :

Pilot : Flt Lt D J Shannon
Flight Engineer : Sgt R J Henderson
Navigator : Flg Off D R Walker
Wireless Operator : Flg Off B Goodale
Bomb Aimer : Flt Sgt L J Sumpter
Front Gunner : Sgt B Jagger
Rear Gunner : Flg Off J Buckley.

Signed by Squadron Leader George L. Johnson DFM.

Original pencil drawing by David Pentland.

Paper size 17 inches x 12 inches (43cm x 31cm)