Some of you have asked why the Allied Air Forces painted the unmistakable black and white 'D-Day Recognition Stripes' on their aircraft.
The reason goes back to July 1943, when Allied Airborne Forces took part in Operation Husky, the invasion of Sicily. Due to high winds and continuous enemy air attacks, the armada of troop carriers and gliders were either thrown off course or mistaken for enemy planes by Naval and ground forces. Many were shot down and it remains the largest friendly-fire incident in modern history.
To ensure there was nor repeat of this disaster, all aircraft designated to take part in Operation Overlord were painted with D-Day Stripes. To ensure this was kept as secret an operation as possible, the planes were only painted a day or two beforehand and many ground staff were 'roped in' to help.
*A lot of the planes were hand painted only hours before they took off and, as you can see in the picture below, they were not all perfect. However, they did their job and allowed the bombers, fighters, troop carriers, spotter planes and gliders to fly over the vast allied armada unmolested.
You can find an album of 'D-Day Striped' planes by Aviation Photographer, Jim Lucas here
This year, show your recognition for all the people involved, Armed Forces and Civilian, by wearing your 'D-Day Stripes' . Here are some examples of how you can show your support > http://ddaystripes.com/ideas.html
Thank you all
Richard & Sarah
@ddaystripes
The reason goes back to July 1943, when Allied Airborne Forces took part in Operation Husky, the invasion of Sicily. Due to high winds and continuous enemy air attacks, the armada of troop carriers and gliders were either thrown off course or mistaken for enemy planes by Naval and ground forces. Many were shot down and it remains the largest friendly-fire incident in modern history.
To ensure there was nor repeat of this disaster, all aircraft designated to take part in Operation Overlord were painted with D-Day Stripes. To ensure this was kept as secret an operation as possible, the planes were only painted a day or two beforehand and many ground staff were 'roped in' to help.
*A lot of the planes were hand painted only hours before they took off and, as you can see in the picture below, they were not all perfect. However, they did their job and allowed the bombers, fighters, troop carriers, spotter planes and gliders to fly over the vast allied armada unmolested.
You can find an album of 'D-Day Striped' planes by Aviation Photographer, Jim Lucas here
This year, show your recognition for all the people involved, Armed Forces and Civilian, by wearing your 'D-Day Stripes' . Here are some examples of how you can show your support > http://ddaystripes.com/ideas.html
Thank you all
Richard & Sarah
@ddaystripes
