Operation Bowler facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Operation Bowler |
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| Part of strategic bombing during World War II | |
George Westlake, responsible for the success of Bowler, carrying a cask of wine
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| Type | Aerial bombardment |
| Location | Venice, Italy |
| Commanded by | George Westlake |
| Target |  Germany |
| Date | 21 March 1945 |
| Executed by |  United Kingdom |
| Outcome | Success |
Operation Bowler was a special air attack on the Venice harbour during World War II. It happened on March 21, 1945, as part of the Italian campaign. This important mission was led by George Westlake, a brave leader in the Royal Air Force.
Contents
Operation Bowler: A Precise Air Attack
Why Venice Was Attacked
By early 1945, many roads and railways in northern Italy were badly damaged. This made it hard for the Germans to move supplies. So, they started using ships to bring goods into Venice. From Venice, they would move supplies along rivers and canals.
The Allied forces knew they had to stop these shipments. An attack on Venice's harbour was necessary. However, Venice is famous for its beautiful buildings and art. There was a big risk of damaging these treasures. This had happened in other battles, like the Battle of Monte Cassino.
The leaders planned this operation to be super precise. They wanted to avoid any damage to the city itself. Air Vice-Marshal Robert Foster named it "Operation Bowler." This name was a reminder to everyone involved. It meant they would be in serious trouble if Venice was harmed. They could even be "bowler hatted," which meant being sent home from the military.
How the Attack Was Carried Out
George Westlake checked the weather carefully. He then led the attack in his Curtiss P-40 Warhawk plane. His squadron, No. 250 Squadron RAF, was part of No. 239 Wing RAF. This group was known for its "dive-bombing" skills. Dive-bombing means flying down steeply to drop bombs very accurately.
First, fighter planes attacked the enemy's gun defenses around the docks. Once those guns were taken care of, the bombers moved in. They dived almost straight down to hit their targets with great accuracy. People living in Venice felt safe enough to climb onto their rooftops to watch the attack. The only damage to the city was a few broken windows.
What Happened During the Attack
The attack was a big success. It sank a German torpedo boat called TA42. This boat used to be an Italian ship named Alabarda. Two other merchant ships, which carry goods, were also sunk. Several smaller naval escort ships were destroyed too.
A large cargo ship was badly damaged. Five warehouses were completely destroyed. An enemy mine stockpile also blew up, leaving a huge 100-yard hole in the quayside. Other important harbour buildings were hit. This included a special training place for frogmen and human torpedoes, which are underwater divers and small submarines used for attacks.
A Hero's Recognition
George Westlake was recognized for his amazing leadership. He received the Distinguished Service Order award. This award was given for his "excellent leadership, great tactical ability and exceptional determination." He had already won the Distinguished Flying Cross in 1942. That award was for his bravery in about 300 flying missions.
