Avro Lancaster Rear Turret
The Lancaster's Last Line of Defence
The rear turret was one of the most important defensive positions aboard the Avro Lancaster bomber. Equipped with four .303-inch Browning machine guns, the turret gave crews protection against enemy aircraft approaching from behind.
Each gun was supplied with 2,500 rounds of ammunition, creating a total combat load of 10,000 rounds. Because the ammunition supply was too large to fit within the turret itself, the storage and feeding system was built into the aircraft fuselage, extending forward toward the upper turret.
Operating from this position required incredible skill, focus and courage. Exposed to the coldest and most vulnerable area of the aircraft, rear gunners played a vital role in protecting their crews during missions over Europe.
Warrant Officer (Ret’d) Ronald “Shorty” Moyes
At only 18 years old, Ronald “Shorty” Moyes took on the dangerous role of tail gunner aboard Halifax and Lancaster bombers during the Second World War.
The son of an immigrant farmer from Coquitlam, British Columbia, Moyes was responsible for watching the skies behind the aircraft, identifying enemy fighters and communicating urgent commands to pilots to help avoid attacks.
From his isolated position in the rear turret, he faced extreme conditions and constant danger, yet carried out his duties with courage and determination.
Warrant Officer (Ret’d) Ronald “Shorty” Moyes represents the thousands of Canadian aircrew members whose bravery and sacrifice helped shape the story of aviation history. His service and experiences ensure that the legacy behind artifacts like the Lancaster rear turret continues to be remembered.
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