576 Squadron

1 Group embarked on an expansion programme in the autumn of 1943 just as ACM Harris was preparing to resume his offensive against Berlin, the seat and symbol of Nazi power and the key, in his eyes, to ultimate victory. 576 Squadron was one of four to be spawned by existing 1 Group units when it was formed at RAF Elsham Wolds from 103 Squadron in November. It hit the ground running and was ever-present on major operations during the remainder of the Berlin/winter offensive. Thereafter it participated in the pre- and post-invasion campaigns in 1944 and those against oil, communications and V-weapons during 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 war in April 1945.