A RARE Dambusters photograph has resulted in a Second World War veteran's memories flooding back.

Royal Air Force No. 617 Squadron used a purpose-built bouncing bomb to carry out an attack on German dams in May 1943.

This month marks 75 years since 133 airmen, led by Wing Commander Guy Gibson, took part in the Dambusters raid. Fifty-three of those brave men made the ultimate sacrifice.

And Bernard Mabey, who enjoyed a lengthy stint within the Royal Air Force's Bomber Command, is still in touch with a surviving member of those that carried out the attack.

The 92-year-old, of Arlington Road, Southend, said: “I joined the squadron two years after the Dambusters raid took place, but I’m full of praise for the work they did.

“I have met Johnny Johnson, who was involved in the Dambusters, a number of times since.

“We sign books together and I was with him again just last weekend.

“Pictures of veterans and anniversaries of events during the Second World War result in my memories flooding back."

The rare photograph has been revealed by Sergeant Ian ‘Alfie’ Garnett, an Aircraft Technician.

When his grandmother passed away in September 2017, Alfie was left one of her most treasured possessions - a black and white photograph taken by his great grandmother's brother, Frederick Waller, who was stationed at RAF Scampton at the time.

The photograph captures 12 airmen who returned safely from the daring raid.

The young members of 617 Squadron line up smiling, after returning from the raid which saw 19 specially-adapted Lancasters take off on 16 May 1943, with eight not returning.

Alfie said: “One of my earliest memories is looking at the black and white photographs displayed on my Nanna’s sideboard in her house when I was about eight years old.

"I remember my Grandad showing me the photo of the 12 men in uniform and recounting their story.

“As a serving Sergeant in the Royal Air Force myself, I can’t help but think back to the men and women who put their lives on the line to secure our freedom during the Second World War.

“The bravery of the men in 617 Squadron is something you can’t put into words. They were prepared to, and so many did, make the ultimate sacrifice for the defence of not only our nation, but other nations throughout the world.

“Their courage and bravery must never be forgotten.”