Ward, Chris RAF Bomber Command Profiles. 576 Squadron

The 1st Group launched an expansion programme in autumn 1943, just as ACM Harris was preparing to resume his offensive against Berlin, the seat and symbol of Nazi power and, in his eyes, the key to ultimate victory. The 576th Squadron was one of four squadrons formed from existing units of the 1st Group when it was formed in November from the 103rd Squadron at RAF Elsham Wolds. It got off to a flying start and was involved in all major operations for the remainder of the Berlin/Winter Offensive. It then took part in the campaigns before and after the invasion in 1944, as well as in operations against oil, communication routes and V-weapons in the summer, the liberation of the Channel ports and the second Ruhr campaign in the autumn and winter. The squadron remained at the forefront of 1 Group operations until the end of the bombing campaign in April 1945.