Donald Swain Lewis and Thoughts on Method

[Graham Broad]

My latest project is producing an edited and annotated version of a fascinating WW1 diary of a Canadian who served in the signals in the First Canadian Division. The diarist, then Private Leslie Miller, often describes aerial activity when he sees it.

For example, on 10 April 1916, he recorded in his diary, "A British plane was blown to pieces by a direct hit from a German anti-aircraft shell and the occupants killed."

This was a Morane Parasol piloted by 2 Wing's commanding officer, Lt. Col. Donald Swain Lewis, D.S.O., the highest ranking member of the RFC to be killed in action in WW1. The other occupant was Captain Arthur Gale, officer commanding the Trench Mortars of 3rd Division.

A thought: in the case of controversial claims, this is the kind of corroborating evidence that might yet come to light and help to settle disputes. There are still lots of unpublished diaries and memoirs out there, sitting in attics and archives, holding onto their secrets even after a century. Perhaps, somewhere out there, there is a German one describing a bold dawn raid on a nearby aerodrome in April 1917, for instance. Who knows.

[MASTIFF]

Originally Posted by Graham Broad

... Perhaps, somewhere out there, there is a German one describing a bold dawn raid on a nearby aerodrome in April 1917, for instance. Who knows.

Even if one were found for 2 June 1917, there are those here who would still find a way to deny it.

Tony

[Barry Hickson]

Originally Posted by MASTIFF

Even if one were found for 2 June 1917, there are those here who would still find a way to deny it.

Tony

Come on Tony! All us Bishop "doubters" would welcome a German report/diary etc to confirm Billy's effort.