Lancaster KB704 squadron ID VR-Y took off at 2135 for an attack on Cambrai France. At somepoint before or after the target was reached the aircraft was brought down at Courcelette 10 km NE of Albert just North of the main road to Bapaume. All the members of the crew were killed. It was very costly raid for 419 squadron, with the loss of 3 aircraft and 12 killed. Six members of other crews also became evaders and two others became POWs. Aircraft lost were KB731 with five killed and KB726 which was the Lancaster in which P/O Mynarski was awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions in the damaged aircraft. It has been noted the mission was a limited success with costly results. But looking at the date of the raid being seven days after "D"Day the distruction or disabling of the railyards may have saved the lives of ground forces; by slowing down movement of men and supplies to German defences.