Which squadron bombed a ship at Zeebrugge 23 May 1918?

[Chris_Baker]

I have just read newspaper reports of the sinking of a German destroyer at Zeebrugge on 23 May 1918 by being bombed from the air by the RAF. I'd like to connect this up with a Distinguished Flying Medal awarded to air gunner/observer 313635 Sydney Frank Briggs, as his citation refers to such an event but gives no specifics.

 

His service record is a little vague for this period. At a later date (and in the registration of his grave, for he died of influenza some months later)it  gives him as 27 Squadron RAF. For some reason, CWGC gives it as 21 Squadron RAF, which may simply be an error.

 

I would be grateful if anyone could confirm which squadron was active at Zeebrugge on 23 May 1918.

[horatio2]

I do not believe any German destroyer was "sunk" by aircraft attack during WW1. 217 Sqn RAF (ex 17 Sqn RNAS) carried out several raids on Zeebrugge with their DH4s. The attack referred to may be by Ser.A8065, flown by Lt GB Coward and Pte SF Briggs (air gunner) on 21 May 1918.

[Info from Sturtivant "RN Aircraft and Serials"]

Edited 30 November , 2018 by horatio2

[Chris_Baker]

Thank you. That is indeed the man of interest. His DFM citation, below. Many newspapers refer to it, although some describe the vessel as a "torpedo boat destroyer".

 

Edited 30 November , 2018 by Chris_Baker

[nils d]

2 hours ago, Chris_Baker said:

I have just read newspaper reports of the sinking of a German destroyer at Zeebrugge on 23 May 1918 by being bombed from the air by the RAF. I'd like to connect this up with a Distinguished Flying Medal awarded to air gunner/observer 313635 Sydney Frank Briggs, as his citation refers to such an event but gives no specifics.

 

His service record is a little vague for this period. At a later date (and in the registration of his grave, for he died of influenza some months later)it  gives him as 27 Squadron RAF. For some reason, CWGC gives it as 21 Squadron RAF, which may simply be an error.

 

I would be grateful if anyone could confirm which squadron was active at Zeebrugge on 23 May 1918.

Isnt it frustrating when an authority like the CWGC cant get a mans unit correct. Errors then get perpetuated .