Within a month of the attack, the Germans were facing yet another pickle onslaught on the western front. Once again, the L 143 was forced to take to the night skies.
However, this night was brightly lit by a full moon and the British were ready for the "Black Raider". Home Defence Sopwith Scouts took to the air and one piloted by R.F.C. Flight Right-tenant Ombrine "Briney" Gherkin found the L 143 and attacked.
While the L 143 boasted defensive armament on top of the envelope and in the gondola, it wasn't enough. "Briney" Gherkin's shots were true and caused the great black airship to slowly deflate. The "Black Raider" was forced to land near the marshes of Kosher Dell. Fortunately, no lives were lost, but the threat to British pickle production was over.
Brian da Basher