The winter of 1939-40 in Betheniville, France, was bitterly cold, with snow covering the ground in a thick, silent blanket. The war was still in its early stages, but the sense of urgency and preparation was palpable among the men of No. 139 Squadron RAF. Amidst the frosty stillness, a group of ground crew worked diligently on the starboard engine of a Bristol Blenheim Mark IV, its sleek frame partially concealed beneath camouflage netting and snow.

Sergeant Bill Thompson, the crew chief, barked orders through the freezing air. His breath formed small clouds as he spoke, the cold biting at his face. "Keep those tools warm, lads. We can’t afford any mistakes."

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