TARGET: LEUNA SYNTHETIC OIL PLANT
MERSEBURG, GERMANY
8 November, 1944

Although three squadrons were dispatched to attack the Leuna synthetic oil plant at Merseburg, difficulty in assembling caused the Group to be recalled.

Several attempts to assemble at various altitudes proved useless. With four craft in formation and weather conditions unfavorable for assembly, it was decided to proceed to the first Control Point, where it was believed the weather would improve.

The four aircraft arrived at the Control Point on time and on course. On the Division Assembly Line, the Group Leader was in proper position; however, the other aircraft were unable to assemble. The Group was then recalled.

The low squadron, having a full complement of aircraft, went across the border of Germany in a futile attempt to bomb with another group. They then returned to base.

At 18,000 feet over the Channel, two aircraft collided in thick haze. The craft piloted by Lt. Amet L. Furr broke into two pieces and went down with all of the crew lost.

The fore part of the plane went into a steep glide and disappeared. The aft section likewise went into a glide. The aircraft was noteworthy as having been rebuilt from two other planes, one part being silver and the other camouflage green. It was appropriately named “Arf ‘N Ar?’, partly because of its hybrid make-up from two planes, and partly in recognition of a favorite British beverage.
The other airplane, “Bad Time, Inc. II”, limped back to England and made an emergency landing.