Abbotsbury — Backpacking Dorset
The Bouncing Bomb

In 1942 this lagoon was used to test an early prototype of the "Bouncing Bomb", designed by Dr. Barnes Wallis, and eventually used to destroy German dams on the Ruhr. The bomb was designed to skip across the surface of the water to avoid torpedo nets, and then sink down the face of the dam wall where it would explode. The delivery called for absolute precision. The bomb had to be dropped sixty feet from the dam wall, and at a specific speed.

The 617 Squadron was formed as a special squadron to conduct the mission. The airmen represented nationalities including Australians, New Zealanders, Canadians and an American, as well as British air crew.

On 16 May 1943, nineteen aircraft from the 617 Squadron departed for Operation Chastise. Of the 19 Lancasters, five crashed or were shot down en route to the target at low level in the dark. A sixth was badly damaged and had to return home. One aircraft was unable to find a dam in the misty weather. However, five crews led by Wing Commander Gibson successfully breached the Mohne Dam, in the face of significant anti-aircraft fire. Gibson, his own bomb already used, then led three other crews to attack the Eder Dam, which was also breached. Three aircraft bombed the Sorpe and Schwelme Dams, but were unable to breach them. On the way home, three more Lancasters were lost. In total, 8 of the 19 Lancasters were lost, with 53 air crew killed and three captured. Gibson was awarded the Victoria Cross, and 38 other air crew were decorated for their courage.

Our route continues to the parking lot at (442). There are public restrooms near (443). From (443) our route follows the paved road to the northwest.

For more information about Abbotsbury, visit www.abbotsbury.org