Sir:
Despite 2Lt. Kane-Brittain's obvious skill as a pilot, I thought it best to escort him in the ordered dawn patrol this morning. We took off in a thunderstorm, passed over Albert at 1000 feet (an altitude maintained throughout the operation), and crossed the lines west of Cambrai. The weather began improving north of Cambrai. We turned to the north, passing east of Doui and Beaumont. By the time we were approaching Lens, we were attacked in overcast skies by four German scouts, two Albatros D2's, an Albatros D3, and a Halberstadt D3. Kane-Brittain's machine was hit on their first pass. As we dodged around trees and buildings, I got one clear shot at a German on Kane-Brittain's tail, but my gun jammed. Both Kane-Brittain and I ended up in separate turning-contests shortly before the Germans gave up on us.
Kane-Brittain's aircraft could barely be controlled, so we headed to the North Advanced Landing Field by way of Lens and Vimy. Fortunately, I was able to clear my jam — even more fortunately, it wasn't necessary. My machine was hit by ground fire over Vimy, but no serious damage was done.
Kane-Brittain lost control of his aircraft while attempting to land. He was able to set it down relatively gently, however. I considered landing with him, but I wanted to be on hand to meet 2Lt. Woodhurst, who was to arrive at Corbie later this morning. So, I made my way by the "back route" without incident until I was within sight of the aerodrome. At that point I developed some serious engine trouble, but was able to land safely.
(signed) Major Benjamin Wagner
Commanding Officer, No. 54 Sqdn RFC
April 19, 1917
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