Short Stirling & RAF Bomber Command Forum

I am a third generation aviator flying long haul and I have just inherited my fathers and grandfathers logs books.

My grandfather operated as a Flight Engineer on Stirlings during the latter part of WW2. From his log book I have learnt that he was forced down in LJ 986, 295 Squadron resupplying Arnheim, landing near Ghent. I believe I have discovered an image (below) taken shortly after the event. The crew were recovered from Brussels the next day. On further reading of my grandfathers log book I find he was also involved in operation Varsity, operating on PW403, B Flight, 299 Squadron.

I'm trying to find out all I can about my grandfathers war and in particular LJ 986 & PW403, accurate details of their configuration and markings, crew and stations during the period he was flying. Any information would be most gratefully received.If there are images in existence, I would be fascinated to see them.

Many thanks
Mark

Further to my earlier post/request. I've made some very pleasing progress in my research for information regarding the two aircraft mentioned. I've learnt that PW403 - 299 Squadron identity letters were X9Q. (LJ 986, 295 Squadron was 8ZY).
I'm very much hoping to find some more images, especially of PW403 configured for Operation Varsity.
There is a very interesting recording, made by Squadron Leader Hugh Grant-Dalton my grandfathers pilot during Operation Varsity, on the IWM website.

I remain very interested to hear from anyone who has any information on this subject.

Many thanks
Mark