No. 404 Squadron, Royal Canadian Air Force, Coastal Command with Coastal Special Duties Scheme
In 1945, No. 404 Squadron, Royal Canadian Air Force was a part of the Royal Air Force's Coastal Command, stationed at RAF Thorney Island in England. At that time, the squadron was equipped with the Handley Page Halifax, a four-engine heavy bomber, and was primarily engaged in anti-submarine warfare missions.
Throughout the year, the squadron carried out numerous patrols and sorties over the Atlantic Ocean, searching for and attacking German U-boats. On April 16, 1945, the squadron was involved in a successful attack on a U-boat, resulting in the submarine's sinking.
During this time, the squadron also carried out reconnaissance missions, providing information on enemy naval activity and weather conditions. In addition, they provided air support for Allied naval convoys, helping to protect them from U-boat attacks.
In August 1945, following the end of the war, the squadron continued to operate from RAF Thorney Island, but their focus shifted to transport and communication duties, as well as carrying out coastal patrols.
