Author Russell Margerison (centre) in front of a Halifax bomber during training before the crew are ready to move over to Lancasters for their deadly missions over Germany.

 

From left to right: Gilbert McElroy (rear gunner), Taff Hutchins (bomb aimer), Max Dowden (pilot), Russell Margerison (mid-upper gunner), Cyril Leverett (navigator), Dick Reeves (wireless
operator) and Frank Moody (engineer).