No 5310, 25 Jan 1941, Page 8, HMS Illustrious
Cited from Illustrated London News
Illustrated London News, No 5310, 25 Jan 1941, Page 8, HMS Illustrious
Transcription
Protected by H.M.S. Illustrious," H.M.S. Southampton," and other war-vessels a valuable convoy was passing through the Sicilian Channel in the early hour of January 10. Suddenly there appeared some thirty German dive-bombers flying in perfect formation. Greeted with a terrific barrage from the Fleet ant aircraft guns, the attack-which was to last until dusk-began. Successive wave of German "Stukas" swept over the British ships, and launched on the "Illustrious herself what has been described as the heaviest assault yet made " on a British warship. Despite this, and although struck by a bomb of particu- larly heavy calibre, which ripped open some of her plates, the aircraft-carrier reached port under her own steam. H.M.S. "Southampton " was badly damaged, and, after being abandoned, was sunk by our own forces. At least twelve Junkers dive-bombers were brought down, others damaged, and an Italian destroyer sunk.
Full Citation
Illustrated London News; No 5310, 25 Jan 1941, Page 8, HMS Illustrious.