Cover Design by:
121Creative
Lower Ground Floor, Ethos House,
28-36 Ainslie Pl, Canberra ACT 2601
phone. (02) 6243 6012
email. [email protected]
www.121creative.com.au
Printed by:
Kwik Kopy Canberra
Lower Ground Floor, Ethos House,
28-36 Ainslie Pl, Canberra ACT 2601
phone. (02) 6243 6066
email. [email protected]
www.canberra.kwikkopy.com.au
Compilation Alan Storr 2006
The information appearing in this compilation is derived
from the collections of the Australian War Memorial and the
National Archives of Australia.
Author : Alan Storr
Alan was born in Melbourne Australia in 1921.
He joined the RAAF in October 1941 and served in the Pacific theatre of war.
He was an Observer and did a tour of operations with No 7 Squadron RAAF
(Beauforts), and later was Flight Navigation Officer of No 201 Flight RAAF
(Liberators). He was discharged Flight Lieutenant in February 1946.
He has spent most of his Public Service working life in Canberra – first arriving
in the National Capital in 1938. He held senior positions in the Department of
Air (First Assistant Secretary) and the Department of Defence (Senior Assistant
Secretary), and retired from the public service in 1975.
He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree (Melbourne University) and was a
graduate of the Australian Staff College, ‘Manyung’, Mt Eliza, Victoria.
He has been a volunteer at the Australian War Memorial for 21 years doing
research into aircraft relics held at the AWM, and more recently research work
into RAAF World War 2 fatalities.
He has written and published eight books on RAAF fatalities in the eight RAAF
Squadrons serving in RAF Bomber Command in WW2.
He is a member of Canberra Legacy.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The Author acknowledges and thanks Kerrie Leech, currently Curator, Private
Records, at the Australian War Memorial, for the great contribution she has
made ensuring compatibility between my laptop and an AWM computer, so that
research material on my laptop can be downloaded, and for her expertise in
solving any computer problem that has arisen during the project. Without her
contribution, the project would not have got off the ground.
Alan Storr. A WW2 photo of the Author
MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE
BY ALAN STORR.
PREFACE AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS.
These volumes are dedicated to the memory of some brave young members of the
Royal Australian Air Force, missing while serving on attachment with the Royal Air
Force or other Air Forces during the Second World War, and have no known grave.
The project was inspired by a letter that was published in the RAAF Association
magazine ‘Wings’ (Winter Edition 2002), written by a daughter appealing for
information about her father missing in WW2 when she was two years of age.
Not only are the volumes a record of some of the unsung heroes of WW2, but I hope
it will assist those who are still seeking information about the circumstances in which
their loved husband, father, son, brother or family member went missing and has no
known grave.
To Mark Whitmore the then Assistant Director, National Collection, Australian War
Memorial, Canberra, and now Director, Collections, at the Imperial War Museum,
London, and Carmel McInerny, the then Senior Curator, Published & Digitised
Records at the AWM and now Manager at the National Library, I extend my grateful
thanks for their ready endorsement and support of the project in January 2003 as a
worthwhile digitised “add on” to the AWM Honour Roll computer record of those
members concerned.
My particular thanks go to Kerri Leech, Assistant Curator, Published & Digitised
Records, at AWM for her expert and ready assistance in developing and testing the
necessary computer systems and providing computer short cuts designed to make the
task easier and help overcome my lack of computer skills. Kerri has also maintained
an oversight of and provided continuing advice on the project.
From an initial examination of the RAAF WW2 Registers of Deaths and Burials,
AWM 237 (63) Airmen and AWM 237 (64) Officers, with cross checks to
AWM237(62) and (65), it was established that there were 1423 RAAF members who
fitted the above project criteria of ‘missing with no known grave’ and comprised 511
Officers and 912 Airmen. The bulk of fatalities were among those serving on
attachment with the Royal Air Force.
To put the above number of fatalities in context, there were overall 11061 RAAF
fatalities in WW2, of which 5944 fatalities occurred in RAAF Squadrons and Support
Units, and 5117 fatalities were among RAAF members attached to the Royal Air
Force or other Air Forces. It is from this latter figure of 5117 that this project
identified the 1423 RAAF members missing with no known grave.
Also included in the project are a small number of Australians who enlisted directly in
the Royal Air Force either before or in the early stages of the war and are on the
AWM Commemorative Roll as missing with no known grave.
2.
With some 1500 RAAF Casualty files to be examined, much of the research of
necessity has taken place at Australian National Archives, East Block Canberra.
The work has now been completed, and the information incorporated in the AWM
Honour Roll computer record and is available for PDF purposes.
In addition to this digitised “add-on” to the Honour Roll, whereby the information can
be accessed on the AWM website www.awm.gov.au, a printout of this same
information for each member concerned is filed in alphabetical name order in
Volumes 1 to 2 (Officers) and 3 to 6 (Airmen) which are held for research purposes in
the AWM Research Centre. AWM Call Number R 940.544941 S886r V.1 to 6 refers.
As a volunteer at the Australian War Memorial it has been a personally rewarding
work and one that it has been a privilege to undertake. I always felt that there was a
story to be told, and I appreciate the opportunity given to me and the facilities
provided by the War Memorial to undertake the work.
Having completed the project there are two things that stand out in my mind.
One is the variety of aircraft types being flown in various theatres of war when
reported missing – from single or twin engine fighters, to multi-engine light, medium
or heavy bombers as well as multi-engine transports, flying boats or patrol aircraft.
The other is the ages of these men, how young they were – many just lads really.
One can only wonder at their skill and bravery, when one can see as an example, a
young RAAF lad who has completed his pilot training in Australia or Canada or
Rhodesia. He then proceeded to UK, is attached to the Royal Air Force, does various
Conversion and Operational Training Courses, and finds himself at the early age of 20
years and 8 months with the awesome responsibility of being Captain (Pilot) of an
RAF Lancaster bomber, responsible not only for his own life but that of the six other
crew members on board, taking off at night in UK mid-winter with a full load of
bombs and fuel, to undertake the hazardous trip of bombing Berlin or some other
daunting target, and on one of these missions the aircraft and crew did not return.
This project I trust honours and pays tribute to their memory.
Alan Storr (Volunteer), Published and Digitised Records.
Australian War Memorial, Canberra. 14 November 2004
3.
MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE
EXPLANATORY NOTES
VOLUME NO.
1
2
3
4
5
6
SUMMARIES OF MISSING CIRCUMSTANCES
(Filed in Aphabetical Name of Member order)
Officers Letters
Officers Letters
Airmen Letters
Airmen Letters
Airmen Letters
Airmen Letters
A to
L to
A to
F to
L to
Q to
K
Z
E
K
P
Y
OTHER AIR FORCES INCLUDED IN THE PROJECT
RAAF personnel serving on attachment with the Royal Air Force, Royal Canadian
Air Force, Royal New Zealand Air Force, South African Air Force, Indian Air Force
and US Army Air Force.
SOURCES.
AWM 237(63) Airmen and (64) Officers : Register of Deaths and Burials of RAAF
Personnel who died on service 1939-1947.
AWM 237 (62) and (65)
AWM Roll of Honour
AWM Commemoration Roll
RAAF Casualty files held by National Archives, Canberra. Series A705.
RAAF Service Record files held by Archives, Canberra Series A9300 or A9301.
AWM 65 Honours & Awards Citations
RAAF WW2 Nominal Roll
AWM Call No. RF 358.41310941 J45r : RAF Squadrons by Wg Cdr Jefford, C.G.
4.
MISSING INCLUDES
Missing in Action
Missing in Air Operations
Missing Lost at Sea
Missing in Flying Accident
SUMMARIES OF MISSING CIRCUMSTANCES : This information is as recorded
in the relevant RAAF Casualty File for the member concerned. This source covers
over 95% of the summaries which are filed in alphabetical name order in these
Volumes. In the remaining cases where no Casualty File exists, reference was then
made to the members Service Record file, where there is invariably only a one line
entry that the member is missing and the presumed date of death, but no information
as to the missing circumstances.
RANKS OF CREW MEMBERS : These are as recorded at time aircraft was
reported missing. It includes promotions which have been promulgated posthumously
but back dated with effect prior to the date the member was reported missing.
Rank abbreviations are as per the Honour Roll format.
MUSTERINGS OF CREW : These are shown only when recorded in the Casualty
File and appear in the order as recorded in the Circumstantial report.
PARENT AIR FORCE OF CREW MEMBERS : These are shown as and when
recorded in the Casualty file. If uncertain then left blank.
AIRCRAFT RADIO SIGNAL : These can comprise two components – the Squadron
Code letters and the Aircraft Individual Letter, eg UV-G . the Letters UV denotes
RAAF 460 Squadron and the letter G denotes G for George. In some instances the
Aircraft letter is only recorded in the Casualty file, in other cases only the Squadron
Identity code letters and in other cases no reference at all. The Aircraft Radio signal
where shown in the Summary is as recorded in the Casualty file.
CITATIONS : These are recorded in the Summaries where applicable. They are
extracted from the relevant AWM Citation file and the file reference noted as the
source.
REGIONAL AFFILIATIONS : an informal scheme under which some RAF
Squadrons were affiliated to towns in the UK or to cities or countries elsewhere. This
was intended to provide the unit with a territorial link and give the related region a
more personal stake in the war eg. 61 (City of Lincoln) Sqn RAF, 88 (Hong Kong)
Sqn RAF. Whilst these affiliations were never formalised in the Unit’s title, they were
consistently used and are included in the summary where applicable.
ACCESS TO MATERIAL :
AWM Website : www.awm.gov.au
AWM Call Number :R 940.544941 S886r V.1 to 6.
5.
RAAF MEMBERS ATTACHED TO THE ROYAL AIR FORCE
IN THE SECOND WORLD WAR
AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.
STATISTICS ;
FATALITIES BY THEATRE OF WAR OR COUNTRY.
FATALITIES
EUROPE
(France, Germany, Holland Denmark,
Belgium, Austria, Yugoslavia, Bulgaria)
316
NORWAY/SWEDEN/BALTIC
42
UNITED KINGDOM
(England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)
58
NORTH SEA
227
ENGLISH CHANNEL
67
ATLANTIC OCEAN
128
IRISH SEA
34
MIDDLE EAST
63
NORTH AFRICA
74
ITALY/SICILY/SARDINIA/GIBRALTAR/MALTA
63
MEDITTERANEAN (includes Aegean/Adriatic sea)
170
INDIA/CEYLON/INDIAN OCEAN/BAY OF BENGAL
35
BURMA
64
FAR EAST (Malaya, Singapore, NEI, New Guinea)
61
CANADA
21
TOTAL FATALITIES
1423
6.
RAAF MEMBERS ATTACHED TO THE ROYAL AIR FORCE
IN THE SECOND WORLD WAR
AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.
STATISTICS ;
FATALITIES BY AIRCRAFT TYPES.
AIRFCRAFT TYPE
LANCASTER
WELLINGTON
LIBERATOR
HALIFAX
STIRLING
MANCHESTER
MARAUDER
WHITLEY
HAMPDEN
BLENHEIM
HUDSON
BEAUFIGHTER
SPITFIRE
HURRICANE
MOSQUITO
SUNDERLAND
CATALINA
MITCHELL
MARYLAND
ANSON
DAKOTA
BALTIMORE
BEAUFORT
BOSTON
* OTHERA/C TYPES
(under 10 fatalities)
TOTAL : 51 A/C TYPES
FATALITIES
276
308
108
77
49
9
24
28
16
109
63
41
61
29
16
26
12
13
20
10
21
15
19
9
64
1423 FATALITIES.
*Includes Albacore, Albermarle, Beechcraft, Bisley, Bombay, Botha, Cnerlie,
Defiant, DH86, Flying Fortress, Harvard, Kittyhawk, Lerwick, Martinet, Mohawk,
Mustang, Oxford, Proctor, Tempest, Tomahawk, Thunderbolt, Typhoon, Ventura,
Vilderbeeste, Walrus, Warwick, Whirlibomber.
7
RAAF MEMBERS ATTACHED TO THE ROYAL AIR FORCE
IN THE SECOND WORLD WAR
AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.
STATISTICS ;
FATALITIES BY MUSTERINGS.
MUSTERING
FATALITIES
PILOT
549
OBSERVER, NAVIGATOR, BOMBAIMER,
AIR BOMBER, NAVIGATOR WIRELESS.
361
WIRELESS OPERATOR AIR GUNNER
WIRELESS OPERATOR AIR
386
AIR GUNNER
122
FLIGHT ENGINEER
4
FITTER MECHANIC
1
TOTAL FATALITIES
1423
REFERENCE SOURCES :
Australian War Memorial Roll of Honour Print Outs.
AWM 237 (65) RAAF WW2 Fatalities by Squadrons
AWM 237 (63) Airmen and (64) Officers : Register of Deaths and Burials of RAAF
Personnel who died on service 1939-1947
AWM 65 (
) Citations held by Australian War Memorial
(NAA) National Australian Archives at East Block, Canberra :: Series A705 RAAF
WW2 Casualty files. Series A9300 and A9301 RAAF Members WW2 Service
records files.
Micro Film No 463 OAFH ) Office of RAAF Air Force History.
Veteran Affairs Nominal Roll 1939-1947 RAAF members .
Commonwealth War Graves records.
RAAF WW2 POW Files held at the Australian War Memorial : File Ref Series A54
File 779/3/129, Parts 1 to 30.
W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses of the Second World War, Volumes
1939 to 1947.
Michael Maton : DFC’s for Australians in World War 2
Ian Tavender : DFM Registers for WW2 Volumes 1 and 2.
SECOND WORLD WAR OVERVIEW : ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE
The Royal Australian Air Force was expanding when war broke put, having 12
Squadrons formed, or in the process of forming. Most were located in Australia, but
Australian airmen would end up serving in every theatres of war.
At the outbreak of war, 10 Squadron RAAF was in Britain collecting Sunderland
flying boats purchased by the RAAF. The squadron was offered to Britain to serve as
part of the Royal Air Force Coastal Command, flying anti-submarine patrols over the
Atlantic Ocean for the duration of the war. 11 Squadron was stationed at Port
Moresby with Catalina flying boats, flying long-range reconnaissance patrols over
northern Australia and north of Papua New Guinea. In 1940, 3 Squadron was posted
to the Middle East as an army co-operation squadron with the Australian Imperial
Force, but became a fighter squadron.
Plans had been made to raise and send more squadrons overseas but the Australian
Government then signed up to the Empire Air Training Scheme (EATS), under which
the Royal Australian, New Zealand and Canadian Air Forces would train aircrews to
be loaned to the Royal Air Force. Most would serve in British squadrons, though
some would be posted to ‘Article XV’, or ‘400-series’squadrons. These squadrons
were raised by the RAF but with their nationality officially recognised – for instance
460 Squadron RAAF, to which the famous Lancaster G for George at the Australian
War Memorial belonged. Many aircrews who survived their tours of duty returned to
Australia to serve in RAAF Squadrons as instructors.
Training of EATS recruits took place in Australia, Canada, Rhodesia and Britain. By
war’s end almost 40,000 Australians had been sent overseas under this scheme.,
serving in Europe, the Middle East, Burma and other places. Many men in Australia
and overseas died in training accidents. Many who graduated from courses flew with
Bomber Command, which had the highest operational loss rate of any British
Commonwealth force in the war. The RAAF also sent ground crews to serve in most
of the Article XV squadrons (as well as 3 and 10 Squadrons), most serving up to four
years service overseas. Hundreds of RAAF members became prisoners of war in
Germany and Italy, as well as a smaller number in the Far East.
The majority of RAAF personnel remained in Australia. The massive expansion of
the forces required extensive administration, training, supply and maintenance
services, and there was also a strong commitment to ‘home defence’, so many men
and most women who volunteered for the RAAF never got a chance to serve
overseas. To assist in meeting the demand for manpower within Australia, the RAAF
formed the Women’s Australian Auxiliary Air Force in 1941, recruiting women to
serve in administrative roles and to perform routine maintenance on aircraft, serving
alongside men, in non-operational units (mostly training establishments) in Australia.
In 1940, the RAAF sent three squadrons to Malaya; in 1941 these were joined by an
Article XV squadron, 453, raised at Bankstown, New South Wales, along with some
EATS graduates posted to British squadrons. They were the first to see action against
Japanese forces.About 200 RAAF men, mostly ground staff, were taken prisoner by
the Japanese. By the end of 1942, RAAF squadrons also had seen extensive
operational service in northern Australia, the Netherlands East Indies and Papua New
2.
Guinea. Other squadrons flew anti-submarine patrols over the shipping lanes around
Australia. .
The majority of RAAF personnel who saw active service served in these campaigns
against Japan. A few had previously served in Europe or the Middle East. Along with
flying squadrons, RAAF members served in various supporting units including
headquarters, supply depots, communications flights, medical aerial evacuation units,
radar stations and airfield construction squadrons – some of the latter two types of
units serving in the Philippines in 1945 with American forces. The RAAF also played
a part in the repatriation of prisoners of war at the end of the war. The only RAAF
servicewomen to see active service were members of the RAAF Nursing Service.
Source : Veteran’s Affairs World War 2 Nominal Roll
Note : There were 11,061 RAAF fatalities in World War 2..
(Australian War Memorial Fact Sheet No 19 refers).*
comprising
5,117 fatalities in RAAF members attached to RAF (primarily) or in some
instances other Air Forces (Source : Count of fatalities in AWM 237 (62)
Register of Deaths.
and
5,944 fatalities in RAAF Squadrons and support units..
* Source AWM 148 Roll of Honour cards, RAAF, Second World War.
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400719 Sergeant LA GRUTA, Anthony Dominica Cyril
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/136/83
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Defiant
T 4042
60 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Sgt La Gruta flying Defiant T 4042 was authorised to carry out a local R/T and D/F
homing practice on 29 August 1941. He was instructed to remain in the locality of the
drome in view of the possibility of a decrease in visibility due to early morning mist. The
aircraft was authorised to leave at 0645 hours. At 0700 hours instructions were issued to
recall T 4042 on R/T. At 0730 the aircraft was reported as being overdue.
Subsequent searches located the wreck of the aircraft on a nearby mountain top. It would
appear that the aircraft became lost in cloud and crashed into the mountain. The site of
the accident was in the vicinity of Lauder, East Lothian, Scotland. Sgt La Gruta was later
recorded as having no known grave.
A Memorial constructed in the moors in an area known as Hunt Law Lammermuir about
7.5 miles north east of Lauder by the volunteer labour of local people, was dedicated at a
service conducted at the site on 2nd September 1951.
Crew:
RAAF
400719 Sgt La Gruta, A D C (Pilot)
1
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
416864 Flight Sergeant LACEY, Raymond George
Source:
NAA: A705, 166/24/161
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Baltimore
AH 111
75 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Baltimore AH 111 of No 75 Operational Training Unit RAF took off at 1425 hours on
14th August 1943 on a navigational exercise over the Mediterranean. The aircraft did not
return to base from this exercise.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
SAAF
9301 Sgt Yeates, I M Captain (Pilot)
416864 Flt Sgt Lacey, R G (Observer)
413657 Sgt Power, L J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
2nd Lieut Caine, K P (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
It was later established from Sgt Yeates who survived the crash that “ when over the sea
25 minutes after take off, white smoke emitted from the port engine. At 1513 hours a
course was set for base, and shortly after the port engine burst into flames. Yeates warned
the crew that he would ditch the aircraft. After ditching both the Pilot and Navigator (Flt
Sgt Lacey) climbed on to the wing of the aircraft. Lt Caine was still in the turret trying to
open the emergency escape window. Sgt Power was lying on the floor of the aircraft.
The aircraft sank very suddenly and both Caine and Power went down with the aircraft.
Both Yeates and Lacey wearing Mae wests stayed together in the vicinity by floating and
swimming to stay warm. During the night the breeze freshened and Flt Sgt Lacey
swallowed a fair amount of water. At 0700 hours it was decided to swim for the shore
which was in sight. Lacey was weak and delirious and progress was slow. At 1630 hours
he stopped talking and he was apparently dead.
An hour later Sgt Yeates was picked up by the Polish destroyer Salzac. The body of Flt
Sgt Lacey was also recovered and artificial respiration applied but without success. Flt
Sgt Lacey was then buried at sea. Although the pilot survived this accident, he later as
FO Yeates was reported missing on 14 July 1944 when serving with 459 Sqn RAAF.”
Sgt Power and 2nd Lt Caine have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the
Alamein Memorial. Egypt.
2
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
430373 Flight Sergeant LAIDLER, Gordon James Keith
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/24/529
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HE 444
21 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington HE 444 of No 21 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off from RAF
Moreton in the Marsh, to attack a diversionary “Bullseye” target, 58 miles from Borkum
in the Frisian Islands. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not
return to base. Other crews reported some ack ack fire from a flak ship near the target,
and also ack ack fire from a convoy 10 miles off Cromer on the return journey.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
429224 Flt Sgt Griffin, F I Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Kempthorne,, R D (Navigator)
Sgt Grego, G C (Air Bomber)
430373 Flt Sgt Laidler, G J K (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt McLachlan. D C (Air Gunner)
Sgt Whittle, R (Air Gunner)
Apart from an envelope being found in the sea of Cromer, with the service particulars of
Sgt Grego, no trace of the missing aircraft or crew were found and in 1949 it was
recorded that they had lost their lives at sea.
3
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403191 Sergeant LAING, Richard John
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/136/181
AWM 65 (3081)
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HX 399
40 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HX 399 of 40 Sqn RAF took off from Base at approx 10pm on 19 July 1942,
to carry out a night operation. It climbed to 3000 feet and after an hour arrived over Wadi
Natrun, in the Middle East. It then climbed a further 3000 feet but soon after an explosion
occurred in the starboard engine. The bombs were immediately jettisoned, the fire
extinguisher applied and the crew prepared to evacuate. The fire continued and the
Captain gave the order to evacuate. After four of the crew had baled out the Captain
decided to try and belly land the aircraft. Sgt Laing (RAAF) the Wireless Operator also
stayed in the aircraft and continued sending out SOS messages.
Crew:
RNZAF
RNZAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
Sgt Kingsford, P R Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Tovey, A J (2nd Pilot)
Sgt Clarke, J (Observer)
403191 Sgt Laing, R J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
407846 Sgt McTaggart, I (Front Gunner)
401211 Sgt Goss, I E (Rear Gunner)
Both Sgt Laing (RAAF) and Sgt Kingsford (RNZAF) were killed in the crash and Sgt
Laing was buried in an isolated grave in Egypt. Later searches could not locate the grave
site and he is recorded as having no known grave.
4
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
412150 Sergeant LAMB, Harold Victor
Source:
NAA: A705, 166/24/16
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Cherlie 87
Royal Air Force Ferry Command, RCAF.
Summary:
Sgt Lamb was a passenger in a Cherlie 87 Aircraft missing on an operational flight on 17
January, 1943. The aircraft departed from Accra, Africa, at 1130pm local time on a flight
to Natal on the east coast of Brazil, approx 158 miles north of Pernambuco, but failed to
reach its destination.
Crew:
The aircraft was crewed by US personnel of the US Transport Command, and carried
RCAF, RAAF and civilian passengers.
RAAF
RAAF
412730 FO Smithson, W T W (Navigator, (Pax))
412150 Sgt Lamb, H V (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, (Pax))
The body of one U.S.passenger, Major Mills, was found on a life raft in the vicinity of
Natal. But no trace of the other passengers or crew was found.
In 1948 it was recorded that the missing RAAF passengers had lost their lives at sea.
5
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
410349 Flight Sergeant LAMOND, Frank Raymond
Source:
NAA: A705, 166/24/412
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Marauder
B 117780
14 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Marauder B 117780 of 14 Sqn RAF took off at 0750 hours on 29 March 1944 to carry out
a low level recce of shipping in the north west Mediterranean area along the Spanish and
French coasts between Barcelona and Marseilles. The British Consul at Barcelona later
advised that at 1030 hours on 29 March 1944, the aircraft crashed in the sea about 3 miles
off Mataro, Barcelona district, a Spanish Mediterranean port.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
4505 FO McDonald, Captain (Pilot)
417089 FO Lewis, J W (2nd Pilot)
421620 Flt Sgt Peedom, C M (Navigator)
421990 Flt Sgt Lanham, R, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
421840 Flt Sgt Woods, M T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
410349 Flt Sgt Lamond, F R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
No trace was found of Flt Sgt Lamond, but the remains of the other five crew members
are buried in the Mataro Cemetery, Barcelona.
6
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404212 Sergeant LAMOND, Henry James
Source:
NAA: A705, 163/136/128
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
Z 7586
211 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim Z 7586 of 211 Sqn RAF was lost as a result of enemy action at approx
12.30pm on 6 February 1942. Three aircraft were operating on escort duty and two did
not return (Z 7586 and Z 9713), and the third aircraft was shot down on the way back to
Palembang. The escort duty was over a convoy from Berhala Straits to Banka Straits.
A survivor (Sgt Offard) from the third aircraft shot down, later stated that “he had seen
one Blenheim on fire, but he did not know what happened to the second aircraft missing”.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
400823 Sgt A.T.Bott, Pilot.
404212 Sgt H.J.Lamond, Observer.
406200 Sgt J.N.Lynas, Air Gunner.
Following post war enquiries and investigations the search for the above missing crew
was abandoned in 1950.
7
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
413617 Flight Sergeant LANCASTER, Eric Edward
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/24/64 Commonwealth War Graves Records.
W R Chorley RAF Bomber Command Losses of the Second\ World War, Page
95,Volume 1943.:
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
BK 299
ATTD 166 SQN RAF
Summary:
Wellington BK 299 of 166 Sqn RAF was one of twelves aircraft which took off from
RAF Kirmington, Lincolnshire on the night of 6/7th April 1943 to carry out mining
operations in specified areas off Lorient, France. Nothing was heard from the aircraft
after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Lt Brown, N S H (Pilot)
Sgt Lankaster, R (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
413617 Flt Sgt Lancaster, E E (Observer)
Sgt Lewis, M H V (Wireless Operator)
Sgt Caulton, I (Air Gunner)
Following post war investigations and enquiries it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the
Missing, Runnymede, UK.
8
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
421287 Flight Sergeant LANGLEY, Francis Thomas
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/24/393
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
LN 641
37 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington LN 641 of 37 Sqn RAF took off from Tortorella Landing Ground at 1821
hours on 24 February 1944 to carry out operations against the Steyr Aircraft Works in
Southern Austria. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return
to base. Steyr is approx 19 miles south east of Linz, Austria.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
421287 Flt Sgt Langley, F T Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Hutchinson, M A (Navigator)
Sgt Jeavons, S D (Wireless Operator Air)
FO Duncan, C S (Air Bomber)
Sgt Topple, J D (Air Gunner)
Post war investigations revealed that a single aircraft had bombed the Aircraft Works on
24 February 1944, and LN 641 was apparently returning from the mission when it
crashed. Extensive searches in the area and north west Yugoslavia, failed to find any
trace of the missing aircraft or crew, and they were recorded as having no known grave.
9
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
406531 Sergeant LANGOULANT, Thomas Bruce
Source:
NAA: A705, 163/136/180
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hudson
FH 378
48 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Hudson FH 378 of 48 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Wick, Caithness, Scotland, at
1150 hours on 15 July 1942 to carry out a “Trost” patrol. The ETA bask at base was 1810
hours, but nothing was heard from the aircraft and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAAF
Sqn Ldr Petersen, V A Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Dogue, G (Navigator)
406531 Sgt Langoulant, T B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
406543 Sgt Willis, T A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was established that the remains of
Sqn Ldr Petersen was recovered from the sea in the vicinity of the Island of Froya, and
interred in the Stavne Cemetery, Trondhiem, Norway. Froya is a small island off the
coast approx 104 miles of Bergen, Norway.
It was recorded in 1948 that the other missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.
10
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
409554 Flight Sergeant LARKINS, David Brian
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/24/267
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
JA 268
3 Overseas Aircraft – Delivery RAF
Summary:
Wellington JA 268 of No 3 Overseas Aircraft Delivery RAF, departed Hurn Transit
Flight at 0007 hours on 22 January 1944 for Rabat Sale, Morocco, via the Scilly Isles and
Finisterre.
At 0130 hours on 22 January, a Coastal Command Flying Fortress left its base in England
via the same route, and at 0307 hours when approx 145 miles due west of Brest, the
Flying Fortress flying in cloud at 5000 feet, collided with another aircraft. The Fortress
managed to return to its base in the UK, with the white trimming tab and rudder of a
Wellington aircraft wrapped around the leading edge of its port wing.
There was no doubt that the Fortress had collided with JA 268, as it was the only
Wellington aircraft reported missing in that area at the time.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
409554 Flt Sgt Larkins, D B (Pilot)
WO Miles, T (Navigator)
Sgt Stamper, H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
11
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402510 Sergeant LAUDER, Keith John
Source:
NAA: A705, 163/136/127
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hudson
AM 796
59 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Hudson AM796 of 59 Sqn RAF took off on a Reefer patrol over the North Sea from its
base at North Coates, Lincolnshire, UK, at 0855hrs on 2 March 1942. Since then nothing
further heard of either the aircraft or any member of the crew. Missing lost over the North
Sea.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
402510 Sgt Lauder, K J (Pilot)
404203 Sgt Rutherford, D R (Air Observer)
404638 FO Bain, D H (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
402999 Sgt Jones, W T (Wireless Operator)
12
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
425523 Warrant Officer LAWRENCE, James Goudie
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/24/592 Commonwealth war Graves record
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
MF 396
ATTD 172 SQN RAF
Summary:
Wellington MF396 of 172 Sqn RAF took off at 0148 hours on 14 November 1944, to
carry out an operational patrol over the sea at night in an area north west of Ireland..
Shortly after take off the Coast Guard at Ramoor Head at 0156 hours reported seeing an
aircraft coming from south of the River Foyle at a height of approx 1500 feet and heading
towards the sea. Intermittent flashes were coming from the tail of the aircraft and in less
than a minute the aircraft burst into flames, and crashed into the sea.8 to12 miles from
Portrush. Some wreckage washed up in Eire revealed evidence of extensive fire damage
in the fuselage. Salvage operations were conducted but no trace of the aircraft or the
missing crew was found.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Sgt Baxter, J R Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Jerrard, R (2nd Pilot)
422034 WO Weeks, G V (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
425523 WO Lawrence, J G (Wireless Operator Air)
Flt Sgt Hall, H G (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Pike, W (Wireless Operator Air)
WO Weeks body was recovered from the sea off Magilligan Point, Northern Ireland, and
he is buried at the Drumchose (Christ Church) Church of Ireland, Limavady ,
Londonderry, Northern Ireland. The remaining crew members have no known grave and
their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey,
UK.
13
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
414705 Flight Sergeant LAWTON, John
Source:
NAA : A9301, Barcode 5523433
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
70 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Flt Sgt Lawton flying a Wellington aircraft of No 70 Sqn RAF based at RAF Station
Tortorella, was reported missing on a sortie against Allesandria, Italy, on 2 May 1944.
Crew:
RAAF
414705 Flt Sgt Lawton, J (Pilot)
Details of other crew members are not recorded in the above file.
14
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
408724 Flight Sergeant LAY, Kenneth Laurence William
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/24/115 Micro Film No 463 OAFH
Commonwealth War Graves records W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses of
the Second World War, Page 177, Volume 1943.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
ED 935
GT ATTD 156 SQN RAF
Summary:
Lancaster ED 935 took off from RAF Warboys, Huntingdon, at 2338 hours on the night
of 11/12th June 1943, detailed to bomb Munster, Germany. Nothing was heard from the
aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
408724 Flt Sgt Lay, K L W Captain (Pilot)
FO Cowley, J A DFM (2nd Pilot)
411748 PO Bryant, R M (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
Sgt Drake, W J (Wireless Operator)
Sgt Ratcliffe, F E (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Bauman, D C (Bomb Aimer)
Sgt Curtis, J R (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Forster, W (Rear Gunner)
Four bodies were washed ashore in the Zuider Zee area, viz, FO Cowley (RAF) and PO
Bryant (RAAF) who are interred in the New East Cemetery, Amsterdam, and Sgt Drake
(RAF) and Sgt Curtis (RAF) who are buried in the Lemmer Cemetery which is located on
the west coast of the Zuider Zee, 15 miles north west of Vollenhorz.
The four remaining missing crew members are recorded as having lost their lives at sea.
Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey,
UK.
15
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
425679 Flight Sergeant LEAHY, William Joseph
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/24/401
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Liberator
BZ 776
224 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Liberator BZ 776 of 224 Sqn RAF took off from RAF St Eval, Cornwall, at 2015 hours
on 19 March 1944, to carry out an anti sub patrol in the Bay of Biscay. Nothing was
heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RCAF
RCAF
RNZAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Lt Dunn, R Captain (Pilot)
FO Cormack, R V (2nd Pilot)
425679 Flt Sgt Leahy, W J (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
Flt Sgt Stockwell, W F (Navigator)
Flt Sgt Penhale, H M (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Thornton, H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Souter, T P (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Jones, G K (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt McCartney, J C (Flight Engineer)
WO Cook, R H (Wireless Operator Mechanic/Air Gunner)
Following post ware enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the
missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
16
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
425861 Warrant Officer LEAMON, Francis Noel
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/24/746
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Spitfire
RK 884
332 Sqn Royal Air Force (Norwegian)
Summary:
Spitfire RK 884 (Yellow 2) of 332 Sqn Royal Air Force (Norwegian), took off at 1605
hours on 25 March 1945, as part of a squadron fighter sweep on Quackenbruck
aerodrome, Germany. The drome is about 40 miles north of Osnabruck. Nothing was
sighted until the formations arrived at the drome at 1648 hours. After dropping their tanks
all three sections made a surprise attack and strafed the drome where two enemy aircraft
were observed.
Yellow 3 stayed at 6000 feet as he could not jettison his tank. Light flak was encountered
He saw Yellow 2 go in after Yellow 1. Yellow 2 was hit by ack-ack fire when pressing
home the attack, and the aircraft hit the ground and exploded near the border of the
drome. Flames and thick black smoke were seen, and it was believed the pilot would
have been killed. Yellow 3 circled the drome a couple of times, but could only observe
pieces of burning wreckage.
Crew:
RAAF
425861 WO Leamon, F N (Pilot)
Although original German documents recorded that WO Leamon had been buried at
Quackenbruck Cemetery, his grave and a large number of graves located there could not
be identified. All RAAF and RAF members buried at Quackenbruck were subsequently
re-interred in the British Military Cemetery at Rheinberg, and WO Leamon was recorded
as having no known grave.
17
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404019 Sergeant LEE, Cyril Francis
Source:
NAA: A705, 163/137/83
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Maryland
69 Sqn RAF
Summary:
A Maryland aircraft of 69 Sqn RAF left Luqa, Malta on 15 July 1941 to carry out a photo
recce over Tripoli and the North African coast. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after
take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
404019 Sgt Lee, C F (Pilot)
RAAF
402026 Sgt Simpson, J McK ( Observer)
RAAF
404036 Sgt Neill, J C G (Air Gunner)
There are no other details of any other crew member recorded on above file.
In 1948 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
18
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400756 Sergeant LEE, Douglas Henry
Source:
NAA: A705, 163/137/230
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
W 5478
104 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington W 5478 of 104 Sqn RAF Middle East, took off at night on 29 October 1942
detailed to carry out attacks on troop concentrations in the battle area. Nothing was heard
from the aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RCAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
PO Martin, J.S., Pilot.
Sgt W.D.M.Embree, Pilot.
Sgt V.R.Pear, Observer.
400756 Sgt D.H.Lee, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
405039 Flt Sgt A.R.G.Hart, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
Sgt B.A.Beeney, Air Gunner.
Following post war investigations and enquiries when no trace of the missing aircraft or
crew could be found, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had no known grave.
19
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
421602 Sergeant LEE, Jack Stuart
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/24/116
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
BJ 672
27 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington BJ 672 of No 27 Operational Training Unit RAF took off from RAF Station
Lichfield, Staffordshire, at 1136 am on a non operational flight over the North Sea on 14
June 1943. Communications were received from the aircraft at 1141am and 1224pm
when the aircraft was near Boston, Lincolnshire on the outward journey. No other
messages were received and BJ 672 failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
15851 Flt Sgt W.D.Weir, Pilot
412024 Sgt V.C.Mcquade, Observer.
413373 Flt Sgt G.H.Gray, Observer.
410327 Sgt R.McL.Grieve, Wireless Operator Air Gunner
421602 Sgt J.S.Lee, Air Gunner.
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
20
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
406145 Sergeant LEFROY, John Mervyn
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/137/161
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Boston
Z 21Y6
24 Sqn (SAAF)
Summary:
Boston Z21Y6 of 24 Sqn SAAF was detailed to bomb the Derna Harbour, Libya, on 29
May 1942. Heavy ack ack guns were experienced on this mission and the aircraft failed
to return to base.
Crew:
SAAF
SAAF
RAAF
SAAF
Lt Murrow, L H (Pilot)
Lt Wakeling, E F (Observer)
406145 Sgt Lefroy, J M (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt King, E D (Air Gunner)
It was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
21
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400240 Flight Sergeant LESLIE, Kenneth McKenzie
Source:
NAA: A705, 163/137/197
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Whitley
58 Sqn RAF
Summary:
A Whitley aircraft of 58 Sqn RAF took off at 1440 hours on 17 August 1942, on an antisubmarine patrol in the Bay of Biscay. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off
and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RCAF
400240 Flt Sgt Leslie, K McK (Observer)
PO Uglton, C
PO Savage
Sgt Phillipson
Sgt Marshall
Sgt Metivier
Following post war enquiries and investigations it was established that Sgt Phillipson’s
body was recovered from the Bay of Biscay off Cape Ortegal, Corunna, Spain, and
interred in the Cedeira Public Cemetery. No trace of the other missing crew members was
found, and it was recorded that they had lost their lives at sea.
22
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
425173 Warrant Officer LESTER, Donald Joseph
Source:
AWM 237 (65)
NAA : A705, 166/24/514
Commonwealth War Graves records
Lancaster
Aircraft Type:
PB 140
Serial number:
OL – H
Radio call sign:
ATTD 83 SQN RAF
Unit:
Summary:
Lancaster PB 140 of 83 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Coningsby, Lincolnshire, at 0908
hours on 6 August 1944 to attack the flying bomb storage area at Bois de Cassan, France.
The aircraft reached the target and after bombing was completed it was attacked by three
Focke Wolfe aircraft. PB 140 was severely damaged in the attack, and with the aircraft
out of control the Captain ordered the crew to abandon the aircraft.
In the attack both the Rear Gunner and the Wireless Operator who had been injured,
informed the Captain that they would be unable to obey the order. The Captain cancelled
the abandon aircraft order and decided to try and bring the aircraft under control and
make a forced landing. Prior to the cancellation of the order however the Mid Upper
Gunner, WO Lester had abandoned the aircraft, and his parachute was seen to open
successfully. The position of the aircraft at that time was approx 15 miles north west of
Paris.
The Captain succeeded in gaining control of the aircraft, feathered the port inner engine,
and successfully flew the aircraft back to UK making a crash landing at Ford airfield,
Sussex at 1415 hours.
Crew:
RAF
Flt Lt Kelly, J A Captain (Pilot)
RCAF
FO Irwin, A K (Navigator)
RCAF
FO MacNeil, M (Air Bomber)
RAF
Flt Sgt Lambert, S R (Wireless Operator)
RAF
Flt Sgt Burleigh, S C Flight Engineer)
RAAF
425173 WO Lester D J (Mid Upper Gunner)
RAAF
417642 PO Duggin, G J (Rear Gunner)
RAAF
416947 WO Gallagher, R W F (Front Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, in the French Departments of the Seine
and Oust, and cemeteries in the L’Isle Adam area, it was recorded in 1948 that WO
Lester had no known grave. His name is commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing,
Runnymede, Surrey, UK.
23
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
418285 Flight Sergeant LEVER, Ernest James
Source:
NAA: A705, 166/24/379
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Whitley
LA 836
19 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Whitley LA 836 of No 19 Operational Training RAF took off from RAF Station, Kinloss,
Morayshire, at 2014 hours on 6 February 1944, on a night non-operational training flight.
The route was from Base – Stirling – Goole – 55.20N 02.00W – Inverurie – Base.
Contact was maintained with the aircraft until 0143 hours on the 7th February.
Information was then received from the Coast Guard in the vicinity of Lossiemouth that
an aircraft had come down in the sea. They had heard aircraft engines then saw a flash,
and heard an explosion. They reported the position as 3 miles offshore on a bearing of
085deg from Lossiemouth. As LA 836 was due in the vicinity at about that time and did
not return to base, it seemed certain that the aircraft was LA 836.
Searches on the following day revealed no trace of the missing aircraft or crew.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RCAF
RAF
Sgt Brooks, D A (Pilot)
Sgt Brown, J A (Navigator)
418285 Flt Sgt Lever, E J (Air Bomber)
Sgt Marling, J E (Wireless Operator)
Sgt Woods, R C (Air Gunner)
Sgt Saunders, A R (Mid Upper Gunner)
In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
24
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
412458 Flight Sergeant LEWIS, Alfred Edward
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/24/85
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Stirling
R 9290
75 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Stirling R 9290 of 75 (New Zealand) Sqn RAF took off from RAF Newmarket, Suffolk,
at 1841 hours on 28 April 1943 to carry out a mine laying operation. The aircraft failed to
return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RNZAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RNZAF
412458 Flt Sgt Lewis, A E Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Corin, H G (Navigator)
PO Bickham, C J N (Air Bomber)
Sgt Moulton, F A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Graham, A (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Whitehouse, J H (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Howes, V C (Rear Gunner)
Post war enquiries and investigations established that the aircraft exploded in mid air at
approx 0023 hours at a point west of Vesternas, over the water of the Osterso. There were
strong ack-ack batteries located at this point. No bodies were recovered but articles of
clothing and some remains were washed ashore, and in 1946 a Memorial Plaque was
erected.
25
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407123 Flight Sergeant LEWIS, Frank Herbert
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/137/104
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
T 2991
38 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington T 2991 of 38 Sqn RAF took off from Advanced Landing Ground 60 at 2045
hours on 19 November 1941 on a raid on Derna Landing Ground. The aircraft was due to
return to base at 0200 hours on 20th November.
At 0325 hours the aircraft was given a QDM bearing by ALG 09 of 025deg. At 0336
another bearing of 026deg was given. At 0440 hours T 2991 requested ALG 09 to fire
rockets to indicate its location. ALG fired the only rocket left the others having been used
earlier in the night to assist another aircraft. ALG 09 also flashed its Chance Light on/off.
The aircraft was heard flying above the clouds at 0445 hours a few miles away. There
was no communication orally or by W/T. The aircraft did not land at ALG 09.
At the time there was 9/10ths cloud cover with a base of 1500 feet.
The burnt out wreck of T 2991 was discovered the next day. It had crashed when making
a forced landing. There were no survivors.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
407123 Flt Sgt Lewis, F H Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Helmyer, J (2nd Pilot)
Sgt Fenn, P (Observer)
Sgt Sharp, H J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Hamilton, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Coombes, (Air Gunner)
In 1946 searches to locate the graves of the crew were abandoned.
26
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
406146 Sergeant LEWIS, Harold Victor
Source:
NAA: A705, 166/24/590
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
211 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Sgt Lewis a POW of the Japanese was missing lost at sea on 24 June 1944 when the
Japanese transport ship “Rakuyuo Maru” carrying 772 POW’s including 17 RAAF
members was torpedoed off the Japanese coast. Only 212 POWs survived the sinking.
In a statement by WO Barnes (RAAF) a survivor from the sunken ship he reported “ at
approx 1155 pm on 24 June 1944 en route to Japan from Java via Singapore, the Japanese
transport ship of 6000 tons was torpedoed and sank in 2 minutes. The location was about
60 miles from Nagasaki, Japan and not off Sumatra as originally reported.
Sgt Lewis was a Wireless Operator Air Gunner in the RAAF attached to 211 Sqn RAF,
Far East on 17 January 1942.
27
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
416972 Flight Sergeant LEWIS, John Owen
Source:
NAA: A705, 166/24/377.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Liberator
BZ 795
53 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Liberator BZ 795 of 53 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station St Eval near Wadebridge,
Cornwall, at 10.20pm on 3 February 1944 on an anti-sub patrol in the Atlantic Ocean. At
8.11am on the morning of 4 February a signal was received from the aircraft “U Boat
sighted”. This was in position 45.30N, 0700W in the Bay of Biscay area. Nothing further
was heard from the aircraft and it did not return to base. It was presumed that the aircraft
was shot down while attacking a U boat.
Crew:
RAAF
416972 Flt Sgt J.O.Lewis. Navigator Bombaimer.
RAAF
420791 FO Williams, N.J., Navigator.
RAAF
422557 Flt Sgt S.G.Hill. Wireless Operator (Air).
RAAF
422163 Flt Sgt E.J.Fowler. Wireless Operator (Air).
RAF crew members Sgt Patey, Sgt Churchman, Sgt Howard, Flt Lt Bell, Sgt Lidgitt.
Following post war enquiries and investigations it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
28
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
420759 Flight Sergeant LEWIS, Victor Kingsbury
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/24/405
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
L 7527
LS – A
15 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster L 7527 of 15 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Mildenhall, Suffolk, at 2010 hours
on 26 March 1944 to attack Essen. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and
it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RCAF
RAF
PO Marsh, T G Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Spicer, M C (Navigator)
420759 Flt Sgt Lewis, V K (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
Sgt Newall, A R (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Bland, E A (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Brophey, B O Rear Gunner)
Sgt Dean, W H (Flight Engineer)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
29
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407104 Sergeant LEWIS, Vivian
Source:
NAA: A705, 163/137/71
AWM 65 (3178)
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Sunderland
W 4025
201 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Sunderland W 2025 of 201 Sqn RAF was engaged on convoy escort duty in the North
Atlantic on 31 July 1942, when it was shot down by a ship of the convoy in position
55.23N, 14.13W. At the time the weather and visibility was bad.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Sgt Tomley, M J
Flt Sgt Collins, J A
Sgt Williams, N
Sgt Bluck, W
Sgt Goodings, J R
Sgt Scrace, H
407101 Sgt Fort, C G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
407104 Sgt Lewis, V (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
PO Allen, J
Flt Lt Traill, J R
Flt Lt Wakefield, W H
Sgt Wheatley, P S
The bodies of Flt Sgt Tomley. Flt Sgt Collins and Sgt Williams (all RAF members) were
recovered by a naval vessel and buried at sea. Sgt Wheatley (RAF) survived the crash and
was rescued. The remaining members could not be found and they were recorded as
having lost their lives at sea.
30
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407104 Sergeant LEWIS, Vivian
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/24/233
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Catalina
FP 240
131 Op Trg RAF
Summary:
Catalina FP 240 of 131 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off from RAF Station
Killades, near Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, on 22 November 1943
for a daylight operational flying exercise. Nothing was heard from FP240 after take off
and it did not return to base.
There was no evidence to show why the aircraft failed to reach Bowmore, the water field
for which it was bound. ASR searches were conducted but no trace was found of the
missing aircraft or crew.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
FO Graves, F P (1st Pilot)
Sgt Anderson, R M (2nd Pilot)
418039 Flt Sgt Hodgkison, O D (Navigator Bombaimer)
Sgt Barnes, A D (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Sutherland, A (Fitter Mechanic Engines)
Sgt Morrison, F (Wireless Operator Mechanic)
Sgt Warder, A G (Wireless Operator)
Sgt Williams, J (Wireless Operator)
Flt Sgt Whitley, J (Wireless Operator)
426623 Sgt Ley, J G (Fitter Mechanic Airframe)
In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
31
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
423018 Flight Sergeant L'GREEN, Neville Alfred
Source:
AWM 237 (65) AWM 54 779/3/129 Part 27 NAA : A705, 166/24/627
Commonwealth War Graves record
Lancaster
Aircraft Type:
HK 645
Serial number:
OJ – R
Radio call sign:
ATTD 149 SQN RAF
Unit:
Summary:
Lancaster HK 645 of 149 (East India) Sqn RAF took off from RAF Methwold, Norfolk,
at 1140 hours on 12 December 1944 to bomb Witten, West Germany. Nothing was heard
from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
FO Dorey, E H S Captain (Pilot)
RAF
Sgt Laird (Flight Engineer)
RAAF
426407 Flt Sgt D Wham, (Navigator Bombaimer)
RAAF
427575 PO Walter, J R (Navigator Bombaimer)
RAAF
423018 Flt Sgt N A L’Green, (Wireless Operator Air)
RAF
Sgt Taylor, (Air Gunner)
RAF
Sgt Hunt (Air Gunner)
Of the above crew, PO Walter (RAAF) and Sgt Laird (RAF) became POW’s. PO Walter
survived the war. FO Dorey, Flt Sgt l’Green and Sgt Taylor (RAF) are listed as missing.
German documents recorded that the bodies of Flt Sgt Wham and Flt Sgt L’Green
(RAAF) were buried at Dortmund cemetery. However post war doubts emerged about the
authenticity of German records for Dortmund Cemetery, and a thorough investigation
was made. The remains of Flt Sgt Wham (RAAF) were located at Dortmund, and
reinterred at Reichswald Forest British Military Cemetery. Also the graves of all Allied
servicemen buried at Dortmund were reinterred at Reichswald Forest War Cemetery
However as it was not possible to identify the remains of Flt Sgt L’Green (RAAF) and
Sgt Hunt (RAF) they are recorded as having no known grave. Their names are
commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey UK.
In a later POW report by the then FO Walter he stated “We were attacked by enemy
fighters. The first burst started a fire in the starboard wing. The Pilot and Engineer were
discussing the fire and the Captain stated he may have to abandon. All the crew
acknowledged I. tried to jettison the bombs but found the electrical circuit apparently
affected as the bombs would not go. The next attack put the port wing on fire, and there
was no answering fire from the Rear Gunner as the turret was U/S. I hear the Rear
Gunner cry out bur do not know what injuries he received. I was first to leave the aircraft
at 20000 feet. I am certain the Captain, Engineer and Navigator were still in the aircraft
but am not certain re the other three. The aircraft was under control but badly on fire. It
exploded as the Engineer followed me out. He was brought to the same POW Camp as I
was in at Dortmund. He stated that he had been taken to the aircraft and saw the bodies of
Wham and Hunt, and a German interrogator hsd stated that L’Green’s body had been
32
found and identified but did not say where. I wsa captured as soon as I landed. Released
by Russians 30/4/45 and repatriated UK 13/5/45”.. .
33
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
415668 Flight Sergeant LIGHTBODY, Robert Thomas
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/24/397
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
JW 890
614 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Halifax JW 890 of 614 Sqn RAF took off from Celone, Italy,at 11.11pm on 15 March
1944 to carry out a sortie against marshalling yards at Sofia. W/T silence was observed
until 03.46 am on 16 March when the aircraft signalled its ETA at base of 04.10am.
Nothing further was heard from JW 890 and it failed to return to base from the mission.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
Flt Sgt Jackson, D M (Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Templer, P W (Navigator)
Pridham, C F (Air Bomber)
Sgt Lee, W (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Hearn, W F (Flight Engineer)
415668 Flt Sgt Lightbody, R T (Air Gunner)
The body of Sgt Templer was recovered from the sea near Termoli on 16 May wearing a
parachute and Mae West. A thorough search of the Termoli district was made but no
trace of the remaining missing crew members was found. In 1947 it was recorded that
they had lost their lives at sea.
34
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
425326 Flight Sergeant LINDENBERG, Keith Rolard
Source:
NAA: A705, 166/24/372
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Stirling
EF 443
90 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Stirling EF 443 of 90 Sqn RAF, took off at 1832 hours from RAF Station Tuddenham,
near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, on the night of 28/29 January 1944 to carry out a mine
laying operation in Kiel Bay, Germany. Nothing further was heard of the aircraft or crew
after take off.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
420619 PO Greenwood, J D (Pilot)
Sgt Holland, G R (Navigator)
Sgt Seddon, J P (Air Bomber)
425326 Flt Sgt Lindenberg, K R (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
Sgt Dooley, V (Mid-upper gunner)
Sgt Royston, G (Rear gunner)
Sgt Harding, K L (Flight Engineer)
In 1948 there being no trace of the aircraft or crew it was concluded the crew were lost at
sea.
35
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
411109 Sergeant LINDSAY, David John
Source:
NAA: A705, 163/138/113
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
ED 316
1656 Conversion RAF
Summary:
Lancaster ED 316 of 1656 Conversion Unit, RAF, took off from RAF Station Lindholme,
Yorkshire, at 1648 hours on the night of 17/18th January 1943 to attack Berlin. Nothing
was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RNZAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAA
RAAF
Flt Lt Hood, S D L, Captain (Pilot)
416110 FO Walter, K B (Navigator/Bombaimer)
401259 PO Weaving, K A C (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
411109 Sgt Lindsay, D J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, (A/B))
Sgt Woodrow, H (Air Gunner)
22643 Sgt Logue, S E (Air Gunner)
26117 Sgt Muller, H F (Flight Engineer)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
36
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400058 Sergeant LINDSAY, Edmund Mailer
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/138/64
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
V 6291
55 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim V 6291 of 55 Sqn RAF on 13 December 1941, led a formation of 3 Blenheims
on a low level attack on a merchant vessel in Navarin Harbour. V 6291 led to a point
about 30 miles out to sea from Navarin. The formation then set course for Navarin, and
despite poor visibility it made a perfect landfall at the harbour.
The merchant vessel was at the jetty and close to two destroyers around which the
formation had to turn in order to carry out a beam attack against the merchant vessel.
Light ack-ack was encountered as the aircraft entered the harbour and became more
intense. No 2 aircraft was hit twice and No 3 once. V 6291 made the first attack and a
successful get away. Nos 2 and 3 swung away in different directions after their attacks.
V 9291 was not seen again and failed to return to base.
An indistinct W/T message at 1555 hours was thought to have come from V 6291 which
would position the aircraft about 150 miles from base. Searches the next day found no
trace of the missing aircraft or crew. It was thought that the aircraft may have crashed or
been forced down shortly after leaving the target.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
Flt Lt Pelling, G (Pilot)
PO Strong, J H (Observer)
400058 Sgt Lindsay, E M (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Post war searches failed to locate any unidentified graves that might be connected with
the missing crew.
37
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
410605 Flight Sergeant LINTON, Norman Royce
Source:
NAA: A705, 166/24/139
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
BJ 963
27 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington BJ 963 of No 27 Operational Training Unit, RAF, took off from RAF
Lichfield, Staffordshire, on a non operational cross country flight on 22 July 1943. The
route was from Base – Shrewsbury – Van Bardsley Island – Studwals – Baggors Park –
Base. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
It was presumed that the aircraft must have crashed at sea.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
Flt Sgt Clayton.
Flt Sgt Mack.
410382 Sgt H.J.Richardson, Observer.
410605 Flt Sgt N.R.Linton, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
408418 Sgt A.J.H.Bock, Air Gunner.
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
38
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
411634 Flight Sergeant LISTER, Donald Sydney
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A 705, 166/32/91
Commonwealth War Graves records
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Micro Film No 463
Hudson
AM 564
500 Sqn RAF
Summary:
On the evening of the 26th April1943, Hudson AM 564 was detailed to carry out a antisubmarine patrol over the Mediterranean in the vicinity of Cape Terres, Algeria. On the
evening of the 26th April 1943, AM564 at approx 6.30pm, during a heavy rainstorm, an
explosion was observed from the shore to take place in the aircraft, following which the
aircraft crashed in the sea, eight miles north of Cape Terriss, Algeria.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
404968 PO Phillips, G A Captain (Pilot)
404480 Fli Sgt E A M Deignan, (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
411634 Sgt D S Lister, (Wireless Air Gunner)
Sgt W F Swift, (Wireless Air Gunner)
All the crew were killed in the crash.
PO Phillips, Flt Sgt Deignan and Sgt Swift are buried in the El Alia Cemetery, Algeria.
The cemetery lles that 13kms south east of Algiers, on the road to El Harrash.
Sgt Lister has no known grave. His name is commemorated on the Malta Memorial,
Malta. The Memorial is in the district of Floriana, and can be easily identified by the
Golden Eagle which surmounts the column.
39
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
401070 Flight Sergeant LITTLEJOHN, Gordon Brefny
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/138/114
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
BJ 961
PH – T
12 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington BJ 961 of 12 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Binbrook at 0059 hours on
7 September 1942 to attack Duisberg, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft
after take off, and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RCAF
401070 Flt Sgt Littlejohn, G Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Marshall, G L (Navigator)
401575 Flt Sgt Marsden, S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Wilson, F H (Bomb Aimer)
Sgt Carruthers, F R (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded that the missing crew
had no known grave.
40
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
421540 Flight Sergeant LIVINGSTONE, David
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/24/175
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
JA 914
DX – O
57 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster JA 914 of 57 Sqn RAF took off at 0930 hours from RAF East Kirby,
Lincolnshire, on 3 September 1943 to attack Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft
after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
Flt Sgt Grindley, W Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Sutcliffe, A (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Carruthers, J T (Navigator)
Sgt Porteous, H M (Air Bomber)
Sgt Moore, A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Jones, H I (Air Gunner)
421540 Flt Sgt Livingstone, D (Air Gunner)
Post war examination of German documents revealed that the aircraft crashed near
Zessen in the early hours of 4 September. Zessen is approx 30 miles south of Berlin. The
remains of Sgts Sutcliffe and Jones (RAF), and Sgt Porteous (RCAF), were identified and
are interred in the Heerstrasse British War Cemetery, Berlin.
The remaining 4 missing members are recorded as having no known grave.
41
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
433115 Flight Sergeant LOCKE, Reginald Kingsley
Source:
NAA: A705, 166/25/283
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
LL 948
ZN – V
106 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster LL948 of 106Sqn RAF took off from RAF Stn. Metheringham, Lincoln, UK at
1705hrs on the night of 14 March 1945 to bomb oil refineries at Lutzkendorf, about 30
miles west of Leipzig. The aircraft was one of fifteen Squadron aircraft detailed to attack
the target. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft which did not return to base.
Crew member Sgt J. Hussey, (Rear Gunner) RAF, who survived the crash later reported:
“the aircraft was on the return journey just south of Karlsthur not far from the Rhine,
when hit by flak. The plane caught fire and flames spread rapidly with the plane breaking
up. Hussey in the rear turret was able to exit the plane but believed the others did not
have time to get out.”
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
437109 FO Barrow, B E, Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Castle, H (Flight Engineer)
Flt Sgt Bedford, H (Navigator)
426544 WO Cossart, J B (Air Bomber)
433115 Flt Sgt Locke, R K (Wireless Operator)
Sgt Armstrong, G S (Mid-upper Gunner)
Sgt Hussey, J S (Rear gunner - survived)
42
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
22643 Flight Sergeant LOGUE, Stanley Ernest
Source:
NAA: A705, 166/25/7
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
ED 316
1656 Conversion RAF
Summary:
Lancaster ED 316 of 1656 Conversion Unit, RAF, took off from RAF Station Lindholme,
Yorkshire, at 1648 hours on the night of 17/18th January 1943 to attack Berlin. Nothing
was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RNZAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
Flt Lt Hood, S D L, Captain (Pilot)
416110 FO Walter, K B (Navigator/Bombaimer)
401259 PO Weaving, K A C (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
411109 Sgt Lindsay, D J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, (A/B))
Sgt Woodrow, H (Air Gunner)
22643 Sgt Logue, S E (Air Gunner)
26117 Sgt Muller, H F (Flight Engineer)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
43
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404550 Flight Sergeant LONERGAN, Robert Neville
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/139/119
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
Z 8428
LQ – N
405 RCAF Sqn
Summary:
Wellington Z 8428 of No 405 (Vancouver) Sqn RCAF, took off from RAF Station
Pocklington, at 1945 hours on 10 March 1942 to carry out operations over Essen,
Germany.
At 2325 hours an SOS was received from the aircraft and the Air Sea Rescue service was
called out to carry out a search which was not successful.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RCAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
404453 FO Durbridge, R K, Captain (Pilot)
404550 Sgt Lonergan, R N (Pilot)
Sgt Garnett, F C
Sgt Broddy, J M
Sgt Wright, W
Sgt Tilley, G A
44
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
413622 Flight Sergeant LONGMORE, Kenneth William
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/25/67
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Stirling
EH 937
WP – S
90 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Stirling EH 937 of 90 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Wratting Common, Cambridgeshire,
at 2037 hours on 23 August 1943 to carry out an attack on Berlin. The ETA back at base
was 0330 hours on 24 August. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it
did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
413622 Flt Sgt Longmore, K W Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Purcell, C J (Navigator)
Sgt Stormer, L M (Air Bomber)
Flt Sgt Weaver, V A (Wireless Operator)
Sgt Lloyd, A E (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Jeffreys, G G (Rear Gunner)
Sgt James, R L (Flight Engineer)
The bodies of 2 RAF members of the crew were late recovered from the sea at Zuider
Zee, Holland.
45
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
406694 Sergeant LOONEY, Patrick Lawrence
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/139/168
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
DV 723
- H
26 Op Training RAF
Summary:
We4llington DV 723 of No 26 Operational Training Unit RAF took off at 2019 hours on
16 September 1942 to attack Essen, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after
take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
406694 Sgt Looney, P L Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Clayton, M J (Observer)
Sgt Pate, J T (Air Bomber)
Sgt Butler, A E W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Calcutt, C G (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
46
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
413624 Flight Sergeant LOVELLE-DRAPER, Adrian Mervyn
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/25/61 Commonwealth War Graves records.
W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses Operational Training Units, page 243,
Volume 7.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
BJ 587
12 OP TRAINING RAF
Summary:
Wellington BJ 587 No 12 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off from RAF Chipping
Warden, near Banbury Cross, on the night of 18/19th August 1943 on a non operational
“Bullseye” training exercise. The route was from Chipping Warden – Grantham –
Londonderry -56.10N, 20.10W – Rothsay – Belfast – Douglas – Honeybourne –
Chipping Warden. The aircraft did not return to base after the exercise.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
413624 Flt Sgt Lovelle-Draper, A M (Pilot)
422559 Sgt Hogan, A J (2nd Navigator)
417551 Sgt Worden, F E (Bomb Aimer)
415684 Sgt Russell, D (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt S W Wood
Sgt W D McDonald
The body of Sgt Russell (RAAF) was washed ashore at St Bees Head, and he is buried in
the Chester (Bacon) Cemetery, UK.
The body of Sgt Hogan (RAAF) was recovered from the sea at Port William,
Widtownshire.and he is buried in the Newton Stewart Cemetery, Scotland. .
It was recorded in 1949 that the remaining members of the crew had lost their lives at sea.
Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK
47
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
401349 Sergeant LOWE, Alan Craig
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/139/114
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Anson
DG 841
2 (O) Advanced Flying RAF
Summary:
Anson DG 841 of No 2 (Operational) Advanced Flying RAF, on an operational training
flight on 27 February 1942, was believed to have crashed into the sea about 25 miles
south of the Isle of Man. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not
return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
401076 Sgt McCracken, G (Observer)
401349 Sgt Lowe, A C (Observer)
PO Carleton
Sgt Robinson.
In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
48
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
411503 Flight Sergeant LUCAS, Kenneth Tudor Rodwell
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/25/54
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HE 756
37 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HE 756 of 37 Sqn RAF Middle East, took off from Kaircuan Tamarr at 2325
on 9 July 1943 to illuminate Syracuse between the hours of 0215 and 0245 on the 10th
July in order for other Wellington aircraft of the squadron to attack the target. The aircraft
carried fifty flares. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return
to base.
Other aircraft reported seeing an aircraft shot down over the target and since no other
Wellington was missing on the night it appears possible that HE 756 was shot down.
Crew:
RAF
RCAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
Sgt Ball, W L Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Tweedle, C M (2nd Pilot)
Sgt Lammin, J D (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
411503 Flt Sgt Lucas, K T R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Williams, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Kerr, T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
49
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
406200 Sergeant LYNAS, James Neville
Source:
NAA: A705, 163/140/68
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
Z 7586
211 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim Z 7586 of 211 Sqn RAF was lost as a result of enemy action at approx
12.30pm on 6 February 1942. Three aircraft were operating on escort duty and two did
not return (Z 7586 and Z 9713), and the third aircraft was shot down on the way back to
Palembang. The escort duty was over a convoy from Berhala Straits to Banka Straits.
A survivor (Sgt Offard) from the third aircraft shot down, later stated that “he had seen
one Blenheim on fire, but he did not know what happened to the second aircraft missing”.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
400823 Sgt A.T.Bott, Pilot.
404212 Sgt H.J.Lamond, Observer.
406200 Sgt J.N.Lynas, Air Gunner.
Following post war enquiries and investigations the search for the above missing crew
was abandoned in 1950.
50
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
420751 Sergeant LYNCH, Allan Spencer
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/25/46
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hampden
32 Op Training RCAF
Summary:
A Hampden aircraft of No 32 Operational Training Unit, RCAF, took off at 5.15am on
14th June 1943 to carry out a navigational, bombing and firing exercise over the Pacific
Ocean. The last message received from the aircraft was at 6am. The aircraft failed to
return from the exercise. Five other aircraft took off on the same exercise at approx the
same time, but all had returned to base about 6.45am due to bad weather.
The weather deteriorated further during the 14 June, and searches by aircraft could not
take place until the 15 June. Naval vessels sighted some wreckage, and on 16 June
wrecked parts of a Hampden aircraft were identified as belonging to the missing aircraft
but no survivors were found.
Crew:
RAAF
420751 Sgt Lynch, A S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
RAAF
421626 Sgt Ritchie, E R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
No other crew details are recorded on the above file.
51
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405109 Sergeant LYNCH, William Douglas
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/140/87
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
Z 7517
14 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim Z 7517 of 14 Sqn RAF crashed 8 miles south of Landing Ground C10 whilst
carrying out night landing practice on 14 June 1942. The cause of the crash is not known,
but a report states that it is presumed the attention of the pilot was distracted by flares and
searchlights which were brought into operation as a result of an air raid warning.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
407677 Sgt Highman, G F (Pilot)
405109 Sgt Lynch, W D (Observer)
407490 Sgt Carnie, W L (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war searches when the remains of the crew were not recovered from the
graves in which they were buried in the desert, the search was abandoned in 1949 and it
was recorded that the crew had no known grave.
52
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405080 Flight Sergeant MAC DONALD, Roderick Daniel
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/141/703
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
ES 989
37 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington ES 989 of 37 Sqn RAF in company with other squadron aircraft was detailed
to attack Tobruk on 7 September 1942. Nothing was heard from ES 989 after take off and
it did not return to base.
Crew:
RCAF
RCAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
WO Turner, S A Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Cameron, A B (2nd Pilot)
WO Clements, R B (Observer)
405080 Flt Sgt MacDonald, R D (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Rawbone, G D (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt McIntyre, P (Air Gunner)
Following post war searches and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that no trace of
the missing crew had been found.
53
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
432219 Sergeant MAC FARLANE, Murdo Donald Davidson
Source:
NAA: A705, 166/26/431
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
LN 878
21 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington LN 878 of No 21 Operational Training Unit RAF took off from RAF Station
Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, on a day cross country exercise on 24 April 1944.
The last known position of the aircraft was a fix which placed LN 878 80 miles east of
Hull. The aircraft failed to return to base after the exercise.
Subsequent reports show that the Wireless Operator had contacted numerous stations
during the trip and was well up to his job. He would have taken correct action in distress
had he had time. There was no evidence to show how the aircraft became lost. From the
way the plot faded suddenly there is a strong possibility that it had been shot down by
enemy fighters. Subsequent searches found no trace of the missing aircraft or crew.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
414456 Sgt J.G.Beilby, Pilot.
432219 Sgt M.D.D MacFarlane, Navigator.
Sgt J.M.Dunn, Air Bomber.
425885 Flt Sgt E.A.Naylor, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
Sgt W.Lane, Air Gunner.
Following post war enquiries and investigations it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
54
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
413883 Flight Sergeant MAC LEOD, John Ralph
Source:
NAA: A705, 166/26/313
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
LN 301
70 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington LN 301 of 70 Sqn RAF took off from Djedeida North landing ground, 15
miles north west of Tunis, at 1712 hours on 22 November 1943 to attack Ciampino
drome, Italy. Messages were received from the aircraft at 9.44pm and 10.29pm when LN
301 requested a bearing and course to return. An identification message believed to have
come from the aircraft at 11.15pm was received, but after that nothing further was heard,
and the aircraft did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
413883 Flt Sgt MacLeod, J R Captain (Pilot)
420178 Flt Sgt Fraser, I L (2nd Pilot)
Sgt Hamilton, W (Navigator)
422648 Sgt Madden, J F (Observer)
415779 Flt Sgt Gillett, G G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
422401 Flt Sgt Buckman J A (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
55
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
409162 Flight Sergeant MACDONALD, Leonard Howell
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/26/153
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
BK 843
27 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington BK 843 of No 27 Operational Training RAF, took off from RAF Station
Lichfield, Staffordshire, at approx 1.50pm on 14 June 1943 to carry out a non operational
flight over the North Sea. The route was Lichfield – Attenborough – 55.00N 00.00E –
Drem – Alconbury – Cannock – Return to base.
At 4.30pm a 1st class fix of 281 deg was obtained, but thereafter nothing was heard from
the aircraft and it failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
406977 Flt Sgt E.G. Holden. Pilot.
409542 Sgt R.A.Hatfield, Observer.
409162 Flt Sgt L.H.Macdonald, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
408382 Flt Sgt T.A.Belot, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
420141 Sgt P.L.Cashion. Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
56
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
420694 Flight Sergeant MACKRELL, Trevor
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/26/453
AWM 65 (3293)
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Marauder
FK 110
14 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Marauder FK 110 of 14 Sqn RAF, British North African Forces, was detailed to carry out
on 9 May 1944, a low level reconnaissance of enemy shipping in the vicinity of the
Ionian Island off the coast of Greece in the South Adriatic Sea. Nothing was heard from
the aircraft after take off and it failed to return from the mission. Subsequent ASR
searches failed to find the aircraft or any survivors.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
Flt Sgt Ross, J (Pilot)
Sgt Green, W N (Pilot)
420511 Flt Sgt Woods, A (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
420601 Flt Sgt Ryan, E J (Wireless Operator Air)
420694 Flt Sgt Mackrell, T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Andrews, H G (Wireless Operator Air)
57
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404107 Sergeant MACLENNAN, Hugh Alexander
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/141/511
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
R 3911
11 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim R 3911 of 11 Sqn RAF India, was detailed on 9 April 1942 to bomb enemy
shipping. It was lost at approx 12 midday as a result of enemy action.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
404107 Sgt MacLennan, H A (Pilot)
408017 Sgt Travers, A R (Observer)
400120 Sgt Nell, F J G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
58
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
406167 Sergeant MACLIVER, Thomas Scott
Source:
NAA: A705, 163/141/386
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
C 7510
45 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Six Blenheim aircraft of 45 Sqn RAF including C 7510, took off on 19 November 1941
to carry out a cloud cover bombing raid on Sidi Rezegh aerodrome. Two aircraft
including C 7510 failed to return. Four others reported unable to reach target on account
of lack of cloud cover.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
407329 PO Magor, E A (Pilot)
406167 Sgt Macliver, T S (Air Observer)
406138 FO Cain, A J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
In 1946 it was recorded that no trace of the missing crew could be found, and that the
search had been abandoned.
59
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
401133 Warrant Officer MACLURE, Alan Campbell
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/144/173 Digitised Commonwealth War Graves
records
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Baltimore
AG 852
ATTD 223 SQN RAF
Summary:
Baltimore AG 852 of 223 Sqn RAF Middle East, was one of a formation of aircraft in an
operation to bomb stores at Chazal Station on 2 November 1942. Over the target there
was heavy ack-ack fire, and AG 852 was hit, blew up and seen to leave the formation
going down in flames. One of the crew was seen to bale out, but it was impossible to state
who it was. There was no further news of the aircraft or crew which did not return to
base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
401133 Flt Sgt A C Maclure, (Pilot)
406400 Flt Sgt C S Middleton, (Observer)
407198 Flt Sgt C M Chenoweth, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
402006 Sgt T G Richards, (Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Middleton is buried in the El Alamein War Cemetery, Egypt. The search for the
graves of the remaining missing crew members was abandoned in 1946. They have no
known grave and their names are commemorated on the Alamein Memorial, which is
situated at the entrance to the El Alamein War Cemetery, Egypt.
.
60
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
422648 Flight Sergeant MADDEN, John Francis
Source:
NAA: A705, 166/27/301
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
LN 301
70 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington LN 301 of 70 Sqn RAF took off from Djedeida North landing ground, 15
miles north west of Tunis, at 1712 hours on 22 November 1943 to attack Ciampino
drome, Italy. Messages were received from the aircraft at 9.44pm and 10.29pm when LN
301 requested a bearing and course to return. An identification message believed to have
come from the aircraft at 11.15pm was received, but after that nothing further was heard,
and the aircraft did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
413883 Flt Sgt MacLeod, J R Captain (Pilot)
420178 Flt Sgt Fraser, I L (2nd Pilot)
Sgt Hamilton, W (Navigator)
422648 Flt Sgt Madden, J F (Observer)
415779 Flt Sgt Gillett, G G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
422401 Flt Sgt Buckman J A (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
61
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
422214 Sergeant MADDRELL, George Webb
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/27/140
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hampden
AN 100
32 Op Training RCAF
Summary:
Hampden AN 100 of 32 Operational Training RCAF, took off at 1140 hours on 4 June
1943 for a navigational exercise over the sea. The aircraft received a WT signal at 1200
hours, but after that nothing was heard from AN 100 and it did not return to base after the
exercise.
Searches later recovered some wreckage from AN 100 from the sea, but no trace of
survivors was found.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
Sgt Baker, W F (Pilot)
Sgt Ralph, J (Navigator)
422214 Sgt Maddrell, G W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
418185 Sgt Senger, G C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
62
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407946 Sergeant MADGE, Raymond Corlett
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/104/102, 163/120/384
Commonwealth War Graves records. W R Chorley: RAF Bomber Command Losses
Operational Training Units, 1940-1947, Page 101, Volume 7.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
X 9682
27 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington X9682 of No 27 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off from Valley
Anglesey, Wales, at night on 25 February 1942, on a cross country training flight. The
aircraft was last heard from in the vicinity of Squires Gate, Wales, at 1056 pm when an
SOS message was received over the Irish Sea between Valley and Liverpool. The aircraft
did not return to base, and subsequent air/sea rescue searches found no trace of the
missing aircraft or crew.
Crew:
RAAF 406351 Sgt Dyson, D H (Pilot)
RAAF 406335 Sgt Veal, C G (2nd Pilot)
RAAF 402302 Sgt Hargrave, A P R (Observer)
RAAF 404598 Sgt Parsons, S J R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
RAAF 407946 Sgt Madge, R C (Air Gunner)
RNZAF
Sgt Hawkins, R G (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the
Missing, Runnymede, UK.
63
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
420695 Warrant Officer MANNING, Charles Benjamin
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/27/487
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
NB 805
172 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington NB 805 of 172 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Chivenor, near Barnstaple,
Devon, at 2122 hours on 26 June 1944 to carry out an operational sortie in the area 15
miles either side of the line from the Schillies to Brest. Nothing was heard from the
aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Sq Ldr Thompson,, R H Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Lewin, M (2nd Pilot)
420695 WO Manning, C B (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
Flt Sgt Long, I G (Wireless Operator Air)
Flt Sgt Green, J W (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Wharton, R S D (Wireless Operator Air)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
64
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402826 Flight Sergeant MANTELL, John Martin
Source:
AWM 237 (65)
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
NAA : A705, 163/142/441
Commonwealth War Graves records
Whitley
Z 9461
77 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Whitley Z 9461 of 77 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Chivenor, Barnstaple, North Devon,
on 13 August 1942 to carry out an anti sub patrol and an aircraft search. At 1917 a
message was received from Z 9461 stating it was being attacked by 3 Arado enemy
aircraft in position 48deg north, 7deg west, approx 100 miles west of Brest, France, in the
Atlantic Ocean. Crews in a dinghy over which the Whitley was flying at the time of the
attack and were later rescued reported seeing an explosion in the distance. Nothing
further was heard from Z 9461 and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RCAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Lt Ralston, I Captain (Pilot)
PO Smith, C E
Flt Sgt R G Martin,
402826 Flt Sgt Mantell, J M (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
PO Dawkins, G
Sgt S T White,
In 1950 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey,
UK.
65
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
428729 Flight Sergeant MARKETO, Miro Peter
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/27/347
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
LN 515
150 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington LN 515 of 150 Sqn RAF, Central Mediterranean Forces, took off at 1717
hours on 23 January 1944 to bomb an aircraft factory at Maribor, north west Yugoslavia.
The aircraft failed to return from this mission. Severe icing conditions were experienced
by other aircraft on the same mission.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
417014 Flt Sgt Thyer, L J Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Walters, M F R (Navigator)
Sgt Cane, E G (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Williams, R (Air Bomber)
428729 Flt Sgt Marketo, M P (Air Gunner)
Following post war investigations and enquiries, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
66
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
401575 Flight Sergeant MARSDEN, Stanley
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/142/452
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
BJ 961
PH – T
12 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington BJ 961 of 12 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Binbrook at 0059 hours on
7 September 1942 to attack Duisberg, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft
after take off, and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RCAF
401070 Flt Sgt Littlejohn, G Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Marshall, G L (Navigator)
401575 Flt Sgt Marsden, S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Wilson, F H (Bomb Aimer)
Sgt Carruthers, F R (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded that the missing crew
had no known grave.
67
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
411504 Sergeant MARSH, Thomas
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/142/363
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Mitchell
41-12462
13 Bomber Sqn Usaaf
Summary:
Mitchell 41-12462 of No 13 Bomber Sqn USAAF departed Port Moresby on 23 May
1942 to bomb the Lae aerodrome, and was last seen off Salamau being attacked by two
Zeros, and losing latitude over the water.
In a statement by Sgt Murphy (a survivor) he reported “After dropping its bombs over
Lae drome, the aircraft was attacked by enemy fighters. It received a direct hit and the
starboard engine was out. The aircraft fell away from the formation and the enemy
continued to attack. The pilot decided to attempt landing on the water. This was
successfully accomplished and the dinghy launched.
The enemy then strafed the raft. The Captain ordered the crew to separate. Until then all
the crew were safe. Sgt Marsh swam away in the opposite direction to the other crew, and
was not seen again. He does not think any of the other crew were hit and they called one
another. The enemy aircraft circled and apparently signalled the position and he believes
that Murphy and the other crew may have been taken prisoner”.
Crew:
USAAF
RAAF
Lt Keel, Lt Reed, Sgt Benell, Sgt Murphy, Sgt Wilkins.
411504 Sgt Marsh, T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war searches and enquiries, no trace of Sgt Marsh (RAAF) was found.
68
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
409167 Flight Sergeant MARSHALL, James Wilfred
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/27/291
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
DV 664
7 (C) Op Trg RAF
Summary:
Wellington DV 664 o0f No 7 (C) Operational Training Unit RAF took off from RAF
Limavady, County Derry, Northern Ireland, on 28 November 1943 to carry out non
operational bombing practice. The aircraft was seen to bomb the target from a low level
at 1220 hours, carry out a turn to starboard at about 200 feet, straighten out and then dive
directly into the sea. It was considered that the aircraft had possibly stalled.
There were strong winds and heavy seas at the time.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
PO Waite
Sgt Bennet, G A
FO Knight, J B
409167 Flt Sgt Marshall, J W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
414859 Flt Sgt Woods, L (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Stout, C A
The bodies of Flt Sgt Woods (RAAF) and Sgt Stout (RAF) were recovered from the sea,
and in was recorded that the remaining missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.
69
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405260 Sergeant MARTIN, Alfred Henry
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/27/46
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
BK 160
12 Op Trg RAF
Summary:
Wellington BK 160 of No 12 Operational Training Unit RAF, was detailed to drop
pamphlets in the Orleans area, France. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after it took
off at 1907 hours on 19 February 1943 from RAF Chipping Warden, near Banbury,
Oxfordshire, and it did not return to base. Orleans is approx 72 miles south west on Paris.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
415090 Sgt Parkes, J E (Pilot)
405260 Sgt Martin, A H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
PO Sheppherd
Sgt York
Sgt Kee
Following post war investigations and enquiries it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
70
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
422221 Flight Sergeant MARTIN, Ian Errington
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/27/462
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Liberator
BZ 818
53 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Liberator BZ 818 of 53 Sqn RAF took off at 2130 hours from RAF Station, St Eval,
Cornwall, on 13 June 1944, to carry out an anti-submarine patrol in support of major
operations then in progress. A message was received from the aircraft late at night
indicating that a submarine had probably been sighted and was about to attack. Nothing
was subsequently heard from the aircraft which failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
Sqn Ldr Carmichael, DFC, Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Stevens, E E (2nd Pilot)
Flt Sgt McKeown, J T (1st Navigator)
408874 FO Peters, A O (2nd Navigator)
FO White, V R (Wireless Operator/Air)
422537 Flt Sgt Curner, R H (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
422425 Flt Sgt Campbell, K J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
Flt Lt Shaw, J W (Air Gunner)
422221 Flt Sgt Martin, I E (Air Gunner)
Sgt Lusher, V N (Flight Engineer)
With no trace of the missing aircraft or crew being found following post war enquiries
and investigations, it was concluded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at
sea.
71
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
430626 Flight Sergeant MARTIN, Kenneth Andrew
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/27/563, 166/5/692 Commonwealth War Graves
records. W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses of the Second World War,
Page 415, Volume 1944.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
ME 838
WP – D
ATTD 90 SQN RAF
Summary:
Lancaster ME 838 of 90 Sqn RAF Took off from RAF Tuddenham, Bury St Edmunds,
Suffolk, on the night of 11/12th September 1944 detailed to carry out a mining operation
in Stettin Bay, near Kristianstadt, Sweden. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take
off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
PO Perrett, A L Captain (Pilot)
FO Rose, G F (Navigator)
Flt Sgt Phillips, R C SW (Air Bomber)
427405 Flt Sgt Barrett-Lennard, F G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Noyes, F J (Mid Upper Gunner)
430626 Flt Sgt Martin, K A (Rear Gunner)
Sgt Thompson, P J (Flight Engineer)
It was presumed that the aircraft had crashed in the Baltic.
The body of Flt Sgt Barrett-Lennard (RAAF) was recovered from the sea near
Kristianstad, on the south east coast of Sweden, and buried at the Malmo Eastern
Municipal Cemetery, Sweden. The city of Malmo is on the south west coast of Sweden
opposite Copenhagen.
The remaining missing crew members are recorded as having lost their lives at sea. Their
names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.
72
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
406185 Sergeant MARTIN, Lionel Jeans
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/142/315
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Whitley
P 5051
3 (C) Op Training RAF
Summary:
Whitley P 5051 of No 3 (C) Operational Training Unit RAF, took off from RAF Station
Cranwell at 1027 hours on 13 March 1942 to carry out a navigational training exercise in
the North Sea. Apart from an initial signal soon after take off, nothing further was heard
from the aircraft and it failed to return to base.
Crew:
RCAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
PO Gorham, G R (1st Pilot)
Sgt Evans, E S (2nd Pilot)
406185 Sgt Martin, L J (Observer)
Sgt Walker, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Bell (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea, and they have no known grave. Their names are
commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede Surrey, UK.
73
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
424197 Flight Sergeant MASON, Lewis Harry
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/27/494
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Liberator
FL 931
86 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Liberator FL 931 of 86 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Tain, Ross-shire, Scotland,
at 0255 hours on 26 June 1944 to carry out an anti-submarine patrol in the North Sea.
Nothing further was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
411799 Fl Lt Moffitt, F D, Captain (Pilot)
434069 FO Whitby, S W (2nd Pilot)
FO Pearson, H (1st Navigator)
427942 Sgt Richardson, K I (2nd Navigator)
424197 Flt Sgt Mason, L H (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
419678 Sgt Williams, J G (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt O’Bierne (Wireless Operator/Air)
Sgt Leighton, G G (Wireless Operator Mechanic/Air Gunner)
Sgt Moffitt, I T (Flight Engineer)
With no trace of the missing aircraft or crew being found from post war investigations
and enquiries, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew were lost at sea.
74
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
411931 Sergeant MASTERS, John Ross
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/142/493
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
L 8613
54 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Blenheim L 8613 of 54 Operational Training Unit RAF took off on 5 October 1942 on a
non operational training flight together with Blenheim L 6788 to carry out camera gun
astern attacks, with L 8613 being the target aircraft. L 6788 in making an attack at 1000
feet overshot the target aircraft, its starboard airscrew striking the underside fuselage of
L 8613, causing the tail unit to tear away. Sgt Masters (RAAF) baled out and landed in
the sea and was reported missing believed drowned. Sgt Gracey (RAF) was killed in the
subsequent crash of the aircraft.
The Royal Observer Corps reported the approx position of the bale out parachute and
aircraft were diverted to the scene of the accident as well as a lifeboat from Dunbar.
There were heavy seas at the time.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
411931 Sgt Masters. J R (Pilot)
Sgt Gracey, J G (Observer)
In 1948 it was recorded that Sgt Masters had lost his life at sea.
75
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403940 Flight Sergeant MATHERS, James Bruce
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/142/390
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
R 1162
27 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington R 1162 of No 27 Operational Training Unit, RAF, took off shortly before
midnight on 25 June 11942, on a night operation against Bremen, Germany. Nothing was
heard from the aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base. Other crews reported
that the aircraft was possibly shot down over the target.
Crew:
RCAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
PO Lamb, T F Captain (Pilot)
405174 Sgt Cox, N H (Observer)
403940 Sgt Mathers. J B (Observer)
403786 Sgt Poynting, K H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
400442 Sgt Synnot, J M (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
76
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
410072 Warrant Officer MATHERS, Michael James
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/27/790
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Spitfire
EN 296
43 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Spitfire EN 296 of 43 (China-British) Sqn RAF was one of four aircraft which took off at
0900 hours on 21 February 1945 on a dive bombing mission. Flying at 5000 feet over
Lake Comacchio, Italy the formation led by Flt Lt King (RAF) observed 10 bursts of
40mm flak about 2 miles to the west.
Immediately after WO Mathers (White 3) peeled off and was heard by White 4 on R/T
saying ‘I’ve had it’ or ‘It has had it’. The aircraft was seen to give off brown smoke
which changed to a stream of white as the aircraft lost height and circled. When at 1500
feet a small burst of flame was seen but then went out. The white smoke continued and
the aircraft appeared to be making for a sandbar.
The aircraft was still carrying one 500lb bomb when it hit the water of the lake and
exploded some 20 yards from the sandbar at 0910 hours. The pilot was not seen to bale
out.
Crew:
RAAF
410072 WO Mathers, M J (Pilot)
It was later recorded that WO Mathers had lost his life at sea.
77
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
413628 Flight Sergeant MATHESON, Ross Henley
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/27/279
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HZ 129
15 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington HZ 129 of No 15 Operational Training Unit RAF took off on 19 November
1943 from RAF Portreath for Gibraltar, in transit for North Africa. The aircraft failed to
arrive at Gibraltar.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
413628 Flt Sgt Matheson, R H (Pilot)
419171 Flt Sgt Forbes, J R (Air Gunner)
423208 Flt Sgt Murray, J A McC (Air Gunner)
Sgt Robinson, E A
Sgt Deveney, P J
Sgt Harris, L S
Sgt Smith, L T
Sgt Wooldridge, F J
78
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
412166 Sergeant MATTHEWS, William Roy
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/27/52
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Stirling
R 9279
LS – J
15 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Stirling R 7279 of 15 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station, Bourn, Cambridgeshire, at
1918 on 27 February 1943 to attack Cologne, Germany. Nothing was heard from the
aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
Fl Lt Harris, Y H Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Ashdown, R (2nd Pilot)
Sgt Rogers, P (Navigator)
Sgt Shaw, W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Jones H R (Air Bomber)
Sgt Phillips, S (Mid Upper Gunner)
412166 Sgt Matthews, W R (Rear Gunner)
Sgt Wratten, J (Flight Engineer)
Following post war investigations and enquiries, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
79
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402531 Warrant Officer MATTRESS, Charles Alfred
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/27/155
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Commonwealth War Graves records
Wellington
HE 346
AS – M
ATTD 166 SQN RAF
Summary:
Wellington HE346 of 166 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Kirmington, near Ulgeby,
Lincolnshire, at 2338 hours on the night of 25/26th June 1943, being one of ten aircraft
detailed to attack Gelsenkirchen, Germany. Crews reported visibility good with much
fighter, ack-ack and searchlight opposition. Nothing was heard from HE346 after take off
and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
402531 WO Mattress, C A Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Mortimer, A (Navigator)
Sgt Priestley, J F (Bomb Aimer)
Sgt Parry, N R (Wireless Operator)
Sgt Ball, T (Air Gunner)
Following post war investigations and enquiries, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing
crew had no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the
Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.
80
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407294 Sergeant MCALLEN, William Albert
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/141/381
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
L 7873
LN – J
99 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington L 7893 of 99 (Madras Presidency) Sqn RAF, took off from RAF Waterbeach
at 1720 hours on 15 November 1941 to bomb Emden, Germany. A signal was received
from the aircraft at 2120 hours, but thereafter nothing was heard and the aircraft did not
return to base.
Crew:
RNZAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RCAF
RAAF
Sgt Patterson, T C
Sgt Hall, D E
Sgt Townsend, L R
Sgt Cooke. R R
Sgt Dermody, B J
407294 Sgt McAllen, W A (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
81
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402093 Sergeant MCAULEY, Lindsay Edward
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/141/512
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
Z 9574
11 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim Z 9574 of 11 Sqn RAF (Indian Command), was ordered by Ops 222 Group to
carry out operations against the Japanese fleet on the morning of 9 April 1942. Enemy
fighters were encountered and neither the aircraft nor crew were seen since. They were
missing believed killed.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
PO Knight, R O (Pilot)
406203 FO Evans, D H (Observer)
402093 Sgt Mcauley, A J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
In 1948 it was concluded that the crew had lost their lives at sea.
82
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400418 Sergeant MCCALMAN, Ian Russell
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/141/315
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
K 9763
40 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington K 9763 of 40 Sqn RAF was detailed to carry out on 2 November 1941,
operations against Tripoli in the Middle East. The aircraft left RAF Luqa, Malta, and was
due back at 2359 hours. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not
return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Sgt Colville, G D (Captain (Pilot)
400418 Sgt McCalman, I R (2nd Pilot)
Sgt Forth, H M (Navigator)
Sgt Spry, R D (1st Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Robson, P W (2nd Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Ackroyd, J T (Rear Gunner)
The bodies of Sgt Colville and Sgt Robson (RAF) are interred in the Tripoli Military
Cemetery. In 1948 it was recorded that the remaining missing crew members had lost
their lives at sea.
83
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
420029 Flight Sergeant MCCARTHY, Vincent Alwyn
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/26/374
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Spitfire
BR 430
682 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Spitfire BR 430 of 682 Sqn RAF took off from Tocra at 1330 hours on 14 February 1944
for a photo recce of two targets Candia and Pirasus. In view of the fact that strong winds
were forecast BR 430 was instructed to turn back to Tocra at 1545 hours irrespective of
the photo cover up to then. The aircraft was correctly on track to Candia at 1412 hours
and 164 miles from base. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft after that and it did
not return to base. At 1720 hours with the aircraft overdue, air sea rescue action was
initiated but no trace of the missing aircraft or pilot was found.
No distress calls were received from the aircraft.
Crew:
RAAF
420029 Flt Sgt McCarthy, V A (Pilot)
In 1949 it was recorded that the missing pilot had lost his life at sea.
84
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407560 Warrant Officer MCCORD, Donald Arthur
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/26/276
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HZ 603
38 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HZ 603 of 38 Sqn RAF Middle East, took off from Nicosia at 1827C hours
on 27 October 1943 to carry out an offensive operation in the Aegean Sea, and then
return to Berga 111. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not
return to base.
Crew:
RAF
SAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
Flt Sgt Dubery, C D Captain (Pilot)
Lt Garlick, G L (2nd Pilot)
FO Walton, D R (Navigator)
407651 Flt Sgt Slade, A B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
406324 Flt Sgt Barnes, V S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
407560 WO McCord, D A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
85
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
401076 Sergeant MCCRACKEN, Greig
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/141/480
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Anson
DG 841
2 (G) Advanced Flying RAF
Summary:
Anson DG 841 of No 2 (Operational) Advanced Flying RAF, on an operational training
flight on 27 February 1942, was believed to have crashed into the sea about 25 miles
south of the Isle of Man. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not
return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
401076 Sgt McCracken, G (Observer)
401349 Sgt Lowe, A C (Observer)
PO Carleton
Sgt Robinson.
In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
86
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
417587 Flight Sergeant MCCULLOCH, Robert William
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/26/738
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Liberator
EV 942
354 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Liberator EV 942 of 354 Sqn RAF took off on 30 December 1944 on an anti U Boat
patrol in the Indian area. It was last plotted off the south east coast of Ceylon in position
6.59N, 82.12E, when the aircraft was flying over the sea. The aircraft failed to return to
base from the mission.
Crew:
RCAF
RAAF
RCAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
FO Manyluk, W A Captain (Pilot)
417587 Flt Sgt McCulloch, R W (Pilot)
PO Maika, P J (Navigator Bombaimer)
Sgt Welburn, J K (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
429018 Flt Sgt Robinson, A W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
434942 Flt Sgt Gordon, M J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
15279 Flt Sgt Cain, L (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Sutcliffe, J (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and searches it was recorded in 1946 that the missing crew
had lost their lives at sea.
87
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402004 Sergeant MCCULLOUGH, Joseph Michael
Source:
NAA : A9301, Barcode 5538274
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Tomahawk
AK 554
250 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Tomahawk AK 554 of No 250 (Sudan) Sqn RAF was one of a formation of aircraft
detailed to patrol over shipping off Sidi Barrani on 18 August 1941. The formation was
engaged in combat with enemy aircraft and a simultaneous attack by two ME 109’s
caused one of the aircraft to burst into flames and it was last seen losing height and about
1000 feet off the water. On return of the formation AK 554 flown by Sgt McCullough
was the only aircraft of the Squadron that did not returned from this patrol.
Crew:
RAAF
402004 Sgt McCullough, J M (Pilot)
88
yRAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
420978 Sergeant MCDONAGH, John Henry William
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/13/22 Commonwealth War Graves records
W R Chorley :RAF Bomber Command Losses of the Second World War 1940-1947,
Page 207, Volume 7.
A ircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
DV 914
20 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington DV 914 of No 20 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off on 12 March 1943
on an operational training flight between the Mull of Kintyre and Scarpa Island, West
Scotland. The route was Base – Tiree – Mull of Kintyre – Scarpa – Base. No signals were
received from the aircraft and it failed to return to base from the exercise.
An aircraft was seen by ASR launches exercising in the vicinity of the Island of Tiree to
spin into the sea from a height of 10000 feet. It was also separately reported that an RAF
Corporal and a civilian had seen an aircraft crash into the sea off the West coast of
Scotland and this was considered by the unit to be DV 914.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
Sgt Morris, G E (Pilot)
414371 Sgt Wright, S R (Navigator)
414548 Sgt Fitzerald, P J (2nd Navigator)
420978 Sgt McDonagh, J H W(Bombaimer)
Sgt Robinson, T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
412744 Sgt Stockbridge, H S (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the
Missing, Runnymede, UK.
89
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400351 Sergeant MCDONALD, Kenneth Stewart
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/141/648
Wellington
Aircraft Type:
HX 364
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
70 Sqn RAF
Unit:
Summary:
Wellington HX 364 of 70 Sqn RAF failed to return from an operational mission in the
Middle East on the night of 27/28th July 1942.
Crew:
RAF
Sgt Osborne, H S Captain (Pilot)
RAAF
400709 Sgt Hearn, R M (2nd Pilot)
RAAF
404511 WO Osborn, R E S (Observer)
RAAF
400351 Sgt McDonald, K S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
RAAF
404635 Flt Sgt Jones, E A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
RAF
Sgt Hatch, B K (Air Gunner)
In a later statement by WO Osborn (RAAF) who survived and became a POW he
reported “The aircraft was shot down on the night of 27/28th July 1942 by flak over
Tobruk and crashed about 50 miles south of Tobruk. No member of the crew was injured,
and it was attempted to make our way back. We had covered about 100 miles, and were
forced to give up through lack of food and water. We were picked up and taken to Mersa
Matruh and interrogated. Then transported to Benghazi arriving at a POW camp on 8
August 1942.
We left Benghazi on 15 August 1942, and five members were placed on an Italian vessel
Lionbixo, with Sgt Hearn being on another vessel. Three of us were placed in the bottom
of the front hold, and the other two in middle section of the same hold. The vessel was
sunk by a British submarine off an island south of Greece when it was hit by two
torpedoes about 4pm on the 17 August 1942. One torpedo entered the bottom section of
the hold and the other hit the engine room. The front half filled with water. The ship was
towed to port on the east coast of Greece.
WO Osborn (RAAF) was injured but he stated that Sgt Hatch (RAF) had lost his life in
the explosion. Also he had not seen or heard of Sgt McDonald (RAAF) or Flt Sgt Jones
(RAAF) since the explosion and he assumed they were drowned or had lost their lives in
the explosion. Sgt Osborne (RAF) was also injured in the explosion.
90
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404298 Sergeant MCDONALD, Malcolm Dalton
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/141/520
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
211 Sqn RAF
Summary:
In a letter from RAAF London, it was reported that Flt Lt Stewart was classified as
missing near Java on 21 February 1942. He was a member of a crew of Sgt Burrage
which left Kiladjati, Java, in a Blenheim aircraft of 211 Sqn RAF to raid shipping in the
river near Palembang.
The crews of other aircraft engaged on the same raid stated that the formation ran into a
heavy storm before reaching Sumatra and was split up. Independent attacks were carried
out but nothing was seen or heard of Sgt Burrage’s aircraft after the formation parted
company.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
400643 Sgt Burrage, J A (Pilot)
400545 Flt Lt Stewart, D McL (Observer)
404298 Sgt McDonald, M D (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
91
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
418760 Sergeant MCDONALD, William Harold
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/26/226
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
BJ 967
29 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington BJ 967 of No 29 Operational Training Unit, RAF took off from RAF
Bruntingthorpe on 30 August 1943 to bomb an ammunition dump near St Omer, France.
The aircraft failed to return to base from the mission.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
Sgt Wildner, A T (Pupil Pilot)
Sgt Trotter, A B (Navigator)
Sgt Scott, J (Air Bomber)
Sgt Raggatt, A W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
418760 Sgt McDonald, W H (Air Gunner)
Sgt Oakes, A J (Air Gunner)
The pilot Sgt Wildner survived the crash and later reported “The starboard engine caught
fire when the aircraft was returning from the target. The fire was extinguished by
graviner. I feathered the prop and headed for home. The aircraft lost height and I had no
time to order the crew to ditching stations The aircraft crashed into the water on the
second touch down and crash landed in the water, the starboard wing striking a wave.
The aircraft broke up and sank immediately. The pilot found himself in the water near the
dinghy. He climbed in and was later rescued by a Walrus. He believed all the other crew
lost their lives at sea.”
The crash position was in the sea off Newhaven. Naval vessels recovered the body of Sgt
Trotter (RAF) and his body was buried at sea. The remaining 4 missing crew members
lost their lives at sea.
92
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
428340 Flight Sergeant MCDONELL, Jack James Lewis
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/26/770
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
PB 636
P4 – D
153 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster PB 636 of 153 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Scampton, Lincoln, on 22
January 1945 to bomb Duisberg, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take
off, and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Lt Jones, DFC.
Sgt S.S.James.
428340 Flt Sgt J.J.L.McDonell, Navigator Bombaimer.
Flt Sgt C.L.Cullen.
424283 WO J.E.Bateup, Wireless Operator (Air).
Sgt R.V.Trafford.
Sgt A.Simpson.
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
93
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
38449 Flight Sergeant MCDONOUGH, Frederick Noel
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/26/458
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
LL 894
CF – T
625 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster LL 894 of 625 Sqn RAF too off from RAF Kelstern, near Louth, Lincolnshire,
at 2208 hours on 15 May 1944 to carry out a mission on Kiel Bay Germany. Nothing was
heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RCAF
RAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
PO Beadle, Captain (Pilot)
FO Merrall, W R (Navigator)
Sgt Wilkinson, E (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Lawson, H R (Air Bomber)
Sgt Dix, A T (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Potter, J (Mid Upper Gunner)
38449 Flt Sgt McDonough, F N (Rear Gunner)
The body of Sgt Dix (RAF) was washed ashore on the Danish coast, and he is interred in
the Fourfeldt Cemetery, Esbjerg, located on the west coast of Denmark. It was recorded
in 1949 that the remaining missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.
94
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405060 Sergeant MCDOWALL, Robert Graham
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/141/694
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
Z 7847
8 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim Z 7847 of 8 Sqn RAF was detailed to carry out an convoy escort patrol on 4
September 1942, forty miles distant from its base in the Middle East. Nothing was heard
from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. The weather conditions were
good, but later aircraft on the same escort mission reported large areas of cloud with a
base down to 100 feet.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
404834 Sgt Williams, A S (Pilot)
405060 Sgt McDowall, R G (Observer)
406299 Sgt Green, G F (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
95
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
424303 Flight Sergeant MCFADDEN, Oscar Patrick
Source:
AWM 237 (65)
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
NAA : A705, 166/26/469
Commonwealth War Graves records
Lancaster
LL 916
AS – X
ATTD 166 SQN RAF
Summary:
Lancaster LL 916 of 166 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Kirmington, Lincolnshire, at 0005
hours on the night of 27/28th May 1944, being one of twenty aircraft detailed to attack
Aachen, Germany. Crews reported that opposition from air defences was fairly intense
with heavy flak and considerable fighter activity. There were nine sightings of enemy
aircraft reported two of which developed into combat. Nothing was heard from LL 916
after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
WO Mander, F A Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Evans, H J (Flight Engineer)
Flt Sgt Newell, V L J (Navigator)
Flt Sgt Overend, G J (Air Bomber)
424303 Flt Sgt McFadden, O P (Wireless Operator Air)
FO White, B A (Mid Upper Gunner)
WO Shaw, H (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the
Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.
96
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
10809 Flight Sergeant MCFARLANE, Alfred Hector
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/26/211
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Beaufighter
JM 221
9 (C) OpL Trg RAF
Summary:
Beaufighter JM 221 of No 9 (C) Operational Training Unit RAF took off on 16 August
1943, in company with a number of other aircraft, to carry out a night navigational
exercise over the northern portion of the Irish Sea. The route was from Crosby-on-Eden,
Cumberland, to Point of Ayr – Isle of Man- and return to Crosby-on-Eden. JM 221 failed
to return to base. Searches failed to find any trace of the missing aircraft or crew.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
10809 Flt Sgt McFarlane, A H (Pilot)
Sgt McGinnnity, G (Navigator)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
97
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
420980 Flight Sergeant MCGILVRAY, George Alphonsus
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/3/166
Commonwealth War Graves records
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Micro Film No463 OAFH
Wellington
HF 194
ATTD 179 SQN RAF
Summary:
Wellington HF 194 of 179 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station North Front, Gibraltar,
on the evening of 16 January 1944, to carry out an anti-sub patrol in the vicinity of Cape
St Vincent. The aircraft was due back at 8am the next day, but it did not return to base.
Extensive searches were carried out but no trace of the missing aircraft or crew were
found. This was the first operational trip for the newly formed crew.
Crew:
RCAF
RAAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
PO McNeil, W Y Captain (Pilot)
420980 Flt Sgt G.A.McGilvray, (Pilot).
Flt Sgt P W H Crickmay, (Navigator)
416856 Flt Sgt S.R.Hore, (Wireless Air Gunner).
422529 Flt Sgt R.D.Anthony, (Wireless Air Gunner.
425577 Flt Sgt T.M.Andersen, (Wireless Air Gunner)
All the crew have no known grave and their names are commemorated on the Malta
Memorial, Malta. The Malta Memorial is situated in an area of Floriana and is easily
identified by the Golden Eagle which surmounts the column.
.
98
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402386 Sergeant MCGOWAN, Hunter Rutledge
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/141/730
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
Z 7418
224 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim Z 7418 of 224 Sqn RAF took off at 0630 hours from Sharjah on the 17
September 1942, to carry out an anti sub patrol in the Gulf of Oman. At 0814 the aircraft
called requesting its signal strength and acknowledged the reply. Nothing further was
heard from the aircraft and it did not return to base.
Extensive searches were carried out until 26 September by aircraft and surface craft. Only
small pieces of wreckage and evidence of fire was found, but no trace of any survivors.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
402386 Sgt McGowan, H R (Pilot)
PO Pontious, A H (Observer)
Sgt Jenny, A H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
In 1948 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
99
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
428401 Flight Sergeant MCGUIGAN, John Harrie
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/26/878
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
PB 374
EA – N
49 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster PB 374 of 49 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Fulbeck, near Grantham,
Lincolnshire, at 1826 hours on 8 April 1945 to bomb Lutdzkendorf, Germany. Nothing
was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
FO Cluer, R Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Lipp, (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Jackson, (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
428401 Flt Sgt McGuigan, J H (Wireless Operator Air)
FO McKay, (Air Bomber)
Sgt MacLennan (Mid Upper Gunner)
Flt Sgt Wilkins (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
100
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400353 Sergeant MCKEAN, Harold Gregory
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/141/468
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
X 9830
150 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington X 9830 of 150 Sqn RAF took off at 2004 hours on 21 February, 1942, from
RAF Station Snaith, Yorkshire, being one of 12 aircraft detailed to attack Darmstadt,
Germany. The weather conditions were good. The aircraft did not return to base and
efforts to trace the missing aircraft and crew after the war were unsuccessful.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
PO Green, Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Jobling (2nd Pilot)
404092 FO Courtney, J G (Observer)
Sgt Fiske (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
Sgt Evans (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
400353 Sgt McKean H G (Air Gunner)
101
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400061 Sergeant MCKELL, David Alcorn
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/141/389
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Maryland
LB 427
Mediterranean Command Me Sqn RAF
Summary:
Maryland LB 427 took off from Ta Kali drome, Malta at 1304 hours on 24 November
1941 to carry out a sea patrol. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did
not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
Sgt Hutt, J K (Pilot)
Sgt Batchelor, H B (Observer)
400061 Sgt McKell, D A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
It was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
102
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403201 Sergeant MCKENDRICK, Fletcher
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/26/1
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hudson
AM 689
500 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Hudson AM 689 of 500 (County of Kent) Sqn RAF took off at 0900 hours on 27
February 1942 to carry out an anti-sub patrol. Its ETA back at base was 1530 hours.
When the aircraft became overdue aircraft searches were conducted for several days but
no trace of the missing aircraft or crew were found.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
403201 Sgt McKendrick, F (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
FO Arian
Sgt Southcott
Sgt Walker
In 1948 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
103
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402387 Sergeant MCLEAN, Alan Maxwell
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/141/349
Aircraft Type:
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
215 Sqn RAF
Summary:
A Wellington of 215 Sqn RAF on an operational flight on 10 June 1942, was destroyed
by an explosion 4 miles south east of Chafaagoan, India.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
402387 Sgt A.M. McLean, Pilot.
404549 Sgt A.C.Honeyman, 2nd Pilot.
400321 PO Gregory, G.R., Observer.
4044428 Sgt L.M.Bensted, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
Sgt G.W.Hill, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
Sgt G.L.G.Fuller, Air Gunner.
It was reported that the remains of PO Gregory and other crew members were buried with
full military honours by local police in three graves, with further remains buried in one
grave. All graves were subsequently covered by flood waters and no marking or removal
of remains to cemetery was impossible due to remoteness of location.
In a 1948 report it was stated that after searching no trace of the graves could be found,
and the remains could not be located for transfer to a British Military cemetery.
Chafaagoan which is 52 miles north of Dacca, is in a remote locality and subject to
flooding from the Brahmaputra river.
104
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404112 Sergeant MCLEAN, Oliver Wiley
Source:
NAA : A9301, Barcode 5533768
RAF Bomber Command losses in WW2 by W.R.Chorley, page 86, 1941 Vol 1941
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Whitley
Z 6555
EY 78 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Whitley Z 6555 of No 78 Sqn RAF took off at 2303 hours on 8 July 1941 from RAF
Station Middleton St George, to bomb Hamm, Germany. The last message was received
from the aircraft at 3.30am on 9 July 1941, then nothing further was heard from Z 6555
and it failed to return to base, The aircraft was reported to have crashed in the North Sea.
Crew:
RAAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
404112 Sgt McLean, O W Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Martin, C Mack
PO Mountain, H H
Sgt Noddle, K
Sgt Byrne, L
It was late established that Sgt Noddle (RAF) was buried in the Kirkeby Cemetery on the
Danish Island of Romo, and the names of the other missing members of the crew
commemorated on the Runneymede Memorial.
105
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
426666 Flight Sergeant MCLEAN, Robert Hudson
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/26/559
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
ND 331
ZN – G
106 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster ND 331 of 106 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Metheringham,
Lincolnshire, at 2040 hours on 29 August 1944 to bomb Konigsberg, Germany. The
aircraft was one of eighteen squadron aircraft on the mission. Nothing was heard from
ND 331 after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
FO Boivin, L C W Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Bell, S (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Bryson, W S (Navigator)
Flt Sgt Nicol, J P (Air Bomber)
426666 Flt Sgt McLean, R H (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Parker, G E L (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Hargill, A (Rear Gunner)
Post war examination of German documents established that the aircraft crashed on 30
August in the vicinity of Gut Tarpienen, approx 12 miles north east of Neuhausen, near
Koningsberg in East Prussia.
Both Sgt Bell and Flt Sgt Nicol (RAF) became POW’s. The remains of two RAF
members and one unidentified were interred in the New Cemetery, Neuhausen, but it was
not possible for investigating teams to visit the area which was the Russian controlled
zone of occupation to verify the position. The five missing members are recorded as
having no known grave.
106
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404056 Flight Sergeant MCMANUS, Ian Frank
Source:
NAA : A 705, 163/141/235
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
X 3179
- U
20 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington X 3179 of No 20 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off from RAF
Edgehill drome at 2229 hours on 25 June 1942 to bomb Bremen, Germany. Nothing was
heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
404056 Flt Sgt McManus, I F Captain (Pilot)
WO Simpkin, J G (Observer)
Flt Sgt Cross, P (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt O’Quinn, P A (Front Air Gunner)
Sgt Poulton, N P (Rear Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
107
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403873 Sergeant MCPHERSON, Cameron Charles
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/141/647
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HF 844
108 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HF 844 of 108 Sqn RAF took off at 1750 hours on 25 July 1942 from
Advanced Base IG 86. It later took off froman Advanced Landing Ground at 2152 hours
to carry out a night raid on Heraklion, an island to the south east of Greece. Nothing was
heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. The opposition
encountered at Heraklion was fairly severe.
Certain lights were reported by other aircraft as being green verey lights fired up from the
sea in a position 100 miles from the Egyptian coast and on track. It was considered
unlikely that it would be from a crew in a dinghy. ASR searches failed to find any trace
of the missing aircraft or crew.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
PO Clement, O H Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Smith, D (2nd Pilot)
PO Russell, H M (Navigator)
405103 Sgt Wilson, J L (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
403873 Sgt McPherson, C C (Front Gunner)
Sgt Condron, R G (Rear Gunner)
108
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
412024 Flight Sergeant MCQUADE, Victor Carl
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/26/154
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
BJ 672
27 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington BJ 672 of No 27 Operational Training Unit RAF took off from RAF Station
Lichfield, Staffordshire, at 1136 am on a non operational flight over the North Sea on 14
June 1943. Communications were received from the aircraft at 1141am and 1224pm
when the aircraft was near Boston, Lincolnshire on the outward journey. No other
messages were received and BJ 672 failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
15851 Flt Sgt W.D.Weir, Pilot
412024 Sgt V.C.Mcquade, Observer.
413373 Flt Sgt G.H.Gray, Observer.
410327 Sgt R.McL.Grieve, Wireless Operator Air Gunner
412602 Sgt J.S.Lee, Air Gunner.
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
109
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
408014 Sergeant MCQUITTY, William Morrison
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/141/293
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Whitley
T 4209
EY – W
78 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Whitley T 24209 took off from RAF Station Middleton St George, County Durham, at
2300 hours on 8 July 1941 to attack Hamm, Germany.
Crew :
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
408014 Sgt McQuitty, W M (Pilot)
PO Scott, E A (Pilot)
Sgt Haffenden, J P (Observer)
Sgt Clow, D T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Forster, W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
In a later statement by the sole survivor, Sgt Haffenden (RAF) he reported :
When over the target, heavy flak broke the nose perspex, and later flak fire put the
starboard engine out of action. The aircraft set course for base with the pitot head shot
away. Immediately after crossing the coast at Texel, T 4209 was attacked by two ME
110’s at 0300 hours on 9 July. After being followed for 5 minutes the Air Gunner put in a
long burst into an enemy aircraft and it went into a steep dive.
Sometime later the aircraft lost height to 400 feet, and with the other engine cut out due
to overheating, the aircraft crashed into the sea at 0429 hours. The crew got into the
dinghy which was inflated, but it immediately became water logged. Sgt Haffenden
(RAF) swam ashore to the English coast some 8/9 miles, walked two miles to the Coast
Guard station to raise the alarm, and was taken to Bircham Newton.
Subsequent searches failed to reveal any trace of the other missing crew members other
than that of Sgt Foster (RAF) whose body was washed ashore on the 9th July. On 20 July
the body of PO Scott (RAF) was found and was interred in England.
It was later recorded that the remaining missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.
110
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
412563 Sergeant MCROBERTS, Bruce Oliver Kingsley
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/141/808
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Spitfire
P 8692
53 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Spitfire P 8692 flown by Sgt McRoberts on a training flight on 3 November 1942, was
last seen at 1140 hours approx one mile south of Llandough near Cardiff, Wales. The
weather at the time was fair with a slight ground haze. When last seen the aircraft which
was one of four Spitfires flying in formation did not appear in difficulties.
The formation led by the instructor in charge of the practice was proceeding towards the
coast and entered cloud at 3000 feet. Whilst climbing through the cloud P 8692 was
observed to become unsteady and lose height. When the other aircraft emerged from the
cloud, P 8692 was not seen and attempts at RT communication were unsuccessful.
Crew:
RAAF
412563 Sgt McRoberts, B O K (Pilot)
In 1949 it was recorded that Sgt McRoberts had lost his life at sea.
111
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
425345 Flight Sergeant MCROSTIE, Herbert
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/26/477
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
JP 167
58 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Halifax JP 167 of 58 Sqn RAF took off from RAF St Davids, Haverfordwest,
Pembrokeshire, at 2135 hours on 10 June 1944 to carry out an anti submarine patrol south
of the Brest peninsular. The last signal received from the aircraft was at 0022 hours on
the 11 June. Nothing further was heard and the aircraft did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Lt Hopkin-Hill, J J Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Wiles, E (2nd Pilot)
Flt Lt Ash, C G (Navigator)
Sgt Farquarson, W (Flight Engineer)
425345 Flt Sgt McRostie, H (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Preston, T B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Douglas, P H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Chadwick, (Wireless Operator M/Air Gunner)
It was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
112
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405094 Sergeant MEARS, Ashleigh Thomas
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/143/102
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
R 5639
VN 50 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster R 5639 of 50 Sqn RAF Took off from RAF Station Swinderby, at 2135 hours
on 17 August 1942 to attack Osnebruk, Germany. Nothing further was heard from the
aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
FO Bunbury, J S, Captain (Pilot)
400476 FO MacDonald, A G (Navigator)
Sgt Mitchell, S R (Air Bomber)
405094 Sgt Mears, A T (Wireless Operator/Air)
Sgt Gallagher, M P (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Simpson, P (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Phillips, G (Rear Gunner)
Following extensive searches and enquiries by the Missing Research and Enquiry service
which failed to find any trace of the missing aircraft or crew, in 1949 it was recorded that
the missing crew had no known grave.
113
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405758 Flight Sergeant MELLERSH, John Hubert
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/143/94 Commonwealth War Graves records
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Sunderland
DD 839
4 (C) Op Training RAF
Summary:
Sunderland DD 839 of No 4 (C) Operational Training Unit, RAF, on 27 November 1943,
detailed to carry out a night flying practice non-operational flight, crashed at 1930 hours,
whilst landing in Cromarty Firth, at Alness, Ross Shire, Scotland. The crash was
considered to be an error of judgement by the Pilot.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
421266 FO Gloor, A V (Pilot)
416342 Flt Sgt Jorgensen, D M (Pilot)
405758 Flt Sgt Mellersh, J H (Observer)
410219 FO Davidson, G H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
425290 FO Evers, A E (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
419924 Sgt Bell, A F (Air Gunner)
427042 Sgt Patterson, R G (Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Wilson, H J
Both FO Davidson and Sgt Bell (RAAF) are buried in the Rosskeen Parish Churchyard
Extension (or Burial Grounds) Invergordon, Scotland, whilst Flt Sgt Mellersh (RAAF)
who was missing lost his life at sea. He has no known grave and his name is
commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.
The remaining four RAAF crew members were injured but survived the crash.
114
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
421360 Warrant Officer MELLON, John
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/33/253
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Commonwealth War Graves records
Liberator
BZ 943
ATTD 86 SQN RAF
Summary:
Liberator BZ 943 of 86 Sqn RAF took off at night on 18th November 1944 from RAF
Station Tain, Scotland, on a non-operational training flight using the Leigh Light. The
aircraft crashed in the sea about 11 miles north east of Banff, Scotland. Continuous
searches for any survivors were made by aircraft and rescue launches.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RNZAF
414079 PO Pordage, H (Navigator)
420389 WO Hough, G F (Navigator Bombaimer)
422349 WO Noble, I R S (Wireless Operator Air)
420786 WO Peck, R J (Wireless Operator Air)
421360 WO Mellon, J (Wireless Operator Air)
411302 FO Easterbrook, S D (Navigator Bombaimer)
Flt Lt Gates
Flt Sgt McCabe
PO Humphreys, J A (Wireless Operator Air)
FO Norrie
The remains of FO Easterbrook (RAAF) and Flt Sgt Humphreys (RAF) were recovered,
but the remaining crew members were listed as having lost their lives at sea.
FO Easterbrook is buried in the Bellie Burial Ground, Moray shire, Scotland.
PO Humphries is buried in the Livgerpool (Anfield) Cemetery, Lancashire, UK.
The other missing crew members have no known grave, and their names are
commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.
115
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
413876 Flight Sergeant MENERE, Douglas
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/27/267
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Stirling
EF 453
199 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Stirling EF 453 of 199 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Lakenheath, Bradon, Suffolk
at 1558 hours on the night of 4/5th November 1943, to carry out mining operations in the
Kattegat area. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not
return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RCAF
412627 PO Moore, D F, Captain (Pilot)
FO Welsh, D C (Navigator)
Sgt Jones, V (Air Bomber)
Sgt Richmond, A (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
Sgt Southgate, V J (Flight Engineer)
413876 Flt Sgt Menere, D (Mid Upper Gunner)
Flt Sgt Watson, P (Rear Gunner)
With no trace of the missing aircraft or crew being found from post war investigations
and enquiries, it was recorded that the missing crew were lost at sea.
116
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400417 Sergeant MENZIES, Stewart Keith
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/143/69
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
Z 9713
211 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim Z 9713 of 211 Sqn RAF was lost as a result of enemy action at approx
12.30pm on 6 February 1942. Three aircraft were operating on escort duty and two did
not return (Z 7586 and Z 9713), and the third aircraft was shot down on the way back to
Palembang. The escort duty was over a convoy from Berhala Straits to Banka Straits.
A survivor (Sgt Offard) from the third aircraft shot down, later stated that “he had seen
one Blenheim on fire, but he did not know what happened to the second aircraft missing”.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
407810 Sgt Steele, G M (Pilot)
400417 Sgt Menzies, S K (Observer)
402033 Sgt Gornall, G H (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations the search for the above missing crew
was abandoned in 1950.
117
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
409566 Flight Sergeant MEYER, Donnelly Coombe
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/27/238
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HZ 811
150 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HZ 811 of 150 Sqn RAF was one of a number of Squadron aircraft to attack
barges and harbour installations at Leghorn, Italy. HZ 811 took off at 1845 hours on 24
September 1943. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return
to base. Leghorn is located on the North West coast of Italy.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
409340 FO Williams, E O S (Pilot)
410198 FO West, J D (Navigator)
415521 Flt Sgt Godfrey, R R (Navigator)
409566 Flt Sgt Meyer, D G (Navigator Acting Bombaimer)
421059 Flt Sgt Veale, N J (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations when no trace of the missing aircraft or
crew was located, it was recorded in 1948 that the crew had lost their lives at sea.
118
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
401848 Flight Sergeant MILLER, Colin McDowell
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/27/20
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
IW 4789
PH – E
12 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster IW 4789 of 12 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Wickenby, at 1626 hours
on the 17 January 1943 to bomb Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off
and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
406573 Flt Sgt D.C.Morphett, Captain (Pilot).
401848 Flt Sgt C.McD.Miller, Navigator.
412099 Flt Sgt J.K.Bond, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
Sgt J.Corke.
Sgt L.E.Austin.
Sgt D.B.Pollitt.
Sgt W.B.Maunder.
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
119
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
426133 Sergeant MILLER, Raymond
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/17/427
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
LN 661
-E
11 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington LN 661 of No 11 Operational Training Unit took off from RAF Westcott,
Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, at 1120pm on a night cross country navigation training
flight. Part of the flight was over the North Sea. The last known position of the aircraft
was 52.55N 10.58W. Then nothing was heard from LN 661 which failed to return to
base. ASR searches found no trace of the missing aircraft or crew.
Crew:
RNZAF
RAAF
RAAF
RNZAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Sgt Blackwood, H W A Captain (Pilot)
426133 Sgt Miller, R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
419992 Flt Sgt Hare, W H (Air Gunner)
PO Willis, H R
Sgt Jaeger, J H
Sgt May, L D
Sgt Body, J J
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the
Missing, Runnymede, UK.
120
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404783 Flight Sergeant MILLER, Sydney Frederick
Source:
NAA : A9301, Barcode 5522640
No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
58 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Flt Sgt Miller was reported missing as a result of air operations from the UK on 1 June
1943.
Crew:
RAAF
404783 Flt Sgt Miller, S R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
No other crew details are available from the above file.
121
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
406306 Warrant Officer MINCHAM, Ernest Arthur
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/27/247
AWM 65 (3646)
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Liberator
FK 923
120 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Liberator FK 923 of 120 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Reykjavik on an anti sub patrol
over an Atlantic convoy, on 4 October 1943. At 1130 am a signal from the aircraft was
received stating ‘about to carry out an attack’. The signal faded and nothing further was
heard from the aircraft which did not return to base. It was considered that the aircraft
may have been shot down by flak. Searches were carried out the next day and aircraft
were warned to keep a lookout, but no trace of the missing aircraft or crew were found.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RCAF
Wg Cdr Longmore, R M OBE, Captain (Pilot)
FO Tait, R W
Flt Lt Bruce
Flt Sgt Parsons
Flt Sgt Furr
407563 WO Stott, W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
406306 WO Mincham, E A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
PO Webber
It was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
122
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
436054 Flight Sergeant MINCHIN, Vernon Harold
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/27/616
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
PD 326
VN 50 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster PD 326 of 50 Sqn RAF took off form RAF Station Skellingthorpe
Lincolnshire, at 2220 hours on 28 October 1944 to attack U boat pens at Bergen, Norway.
Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
423391 FO Wonders, R R, Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Fearnley, J (Flight Engineer)
436054 Flt Sgt Minchin, V H (Navigator)
417821 Flt Sgt Earle, H M (Air Bomber)
Sgt Chaloner, G (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
Sgt Foster, D R (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Kenyon, R (Rear Gunner)
With no trace of the missing aircraft or crew being found following post war enquiries
and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.
123
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
29132 Flight Sergeant MITCHELL, David Sneddon
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/27/463
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
MX 592
LK – G
578 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Halifax MX 592 of 578 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Burn, near Selby,
Yorkshire, at 2338 hours on 12 June 1944, to attack a target at Amiens, France. Nothing
was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
FO Wilden, R F Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Currums, W N (Flight Engineer)
423896 Flt Sgt Robin, P R A (Navigator)
Sgt Askwith, P (Air Bomber)
Sgt Hocking, J C (Wireless Operator)
429375 Flt Sgt Griffith, J B DeB (Mid Upper Gunner)
29132 Flt Sgt Mitchell, D S (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was established that the aircraft was
hit by flak and crashed at Mailly Raineval (Somme), 5 miles south west of Moreuil. FO
Wilden and one unidentified crew member are buried in the Parish cemetery at Mailly
Raineval, but no trace of the remaining 5 crew members could be found.
124
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
406812 Flight Sergeant MITCHELL, Phillip Rossiter
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/144/214
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
BJ 776
12 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington BJ 776 of 12 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Wickenby, at 7.30pm on
26 September 1942 to carry out a sea mining mission in German territorial waters in the
Kiel Bay area. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to
base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
402989 FO Ward, J S, Captain (Pilot)
401864 Sgt Thompson, H C (Navigator)
411320 Sgt Harden, J B (Air Bomber)
403375 Sgt Rich, A C (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
406812 Flt Sgt Mitchell, P R (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
125
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
442280 Flight Sergeant MITCHELL, Ronald Walter
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/27/727
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HE 853
30 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington HE 853 of No 30 Operational Training unit RAF took off at 1200 hours on 8
January 1945, to carry out a solo cross country exercise. The aircraft acknowledged a 3rd
class fix from Bristol at 1416 hours. At that stage HE 853 was on track and ETA in
position 51.53N 04.43W. Bombing practice should have been carried out at 1615 hours
but no messages were received from the aircraft after that and there was no response to
calls sent out by Group Operations. The aircraft was reported overdue at 1750 hours.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Sgt Lewis, R K H (Pilot)
442280 Flt Sgt Mitchell, R W (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
Sgt Woods, C W (Air Bomber)
Sgt McLoughlin, T S (Wireless Operator)
Sgt Vincent, T R W (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
126
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
414587 Warrant Officer MOFFAT, Raymond William
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/28/553
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Mosquito
HR 632
‘Q’
248 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Mosquito ‘Q’ HR 632 of 248 Sqn RAF located at RAF Station, Banff, Scotland, was one
of a formation of aircraft detailed to carry out an anti-shipping sweep in the Skaggerak
and Kattagat on the afternoon of 12 March 1945.
The patrol had been completed without incident, and the formation was 50 nautical miles
south-west of Lister (Norway), when an interception was carried out by enemy fighter
aircraft.
Reports of other aircrew suggest that aircraft ‘Q’ HR 632 had been straggling up to this
time – Position in formation No 2 in starboard section – rear squadron.
One pilot of No 333 Squadron – acting as fighter crew to the formation – saw an enemy
aircraft attacking and apparently scoring hits on a Mosquito at the rear of the formation.
He shot the enemy aircraft down but saw nothing further of this Mosquito HR 632.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
414587 WO Moffatt, R W (Pilot)
422360 FO Abbott, B A S (Navigator (W))
127
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400019 Sergeant MOHR, Reginald Daly DFM
Source:
NAA : A9300, Barcode 5245215 No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives.
AWM 65 (3665)
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
211 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Sgt Mohr was reported missing believed killed in air operations in Java on 1 March 1942.
Crew:
RAAF
400019 Sgt Mohr, R D, DFM (Observer)
No other details area available from the above file.
Citation :
DFM : Sgt R D Mohr of 39 Squadron RAF, was the observer in an aircraft which carried
out a long distance reconnaissance over enemy territory. In the course of the flight the
pilot became incapacitated and fell over the controls. The aircraft went into a dive and
Sergeant Mohr, with great coolness and initiative, fitted the auxiliary control and
succeeded in regaining control of the aircraft after it had lost height for some 4000 feet.
He then flew the aircraft back to base handing over the controls to his pilot who had
recovered sufficiently to land the aircraft safely. By his initiative and promptitude,
Sergeant Mohr saved the aircraft and crew from becoming a loss.
128
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
410168 Flight Sergeant MONCRIEFF, Edwin Douglas
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/28/224
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
DS 777
A4 - C
105 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster DS 777 of 105 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Witchford, Cambridgeshire, at
2019 hours on 20 January 1944 to attack Madgeburg, Germany. Nothing was heard from
the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
410168 Flt Sgt Moncrieff, E D Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Becker, R B (Navigator)
423667 Flt Sgt Davison, A G (Bomb Aimer)
Sgt Baxter, K W J (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Shelton, G W (Air Gunner)
Sgt Lynch, P (Air Gunner)
Sgt Luck, C V (Flight Engineer)
German documents examined post war record that the aircraft was shot down in the
vicinity of Sommersdorf, some 40 miles west of Madgeburg. As Madgeburg was located
in the Soviet Occupied Zone of Germany it was not possible for investigating teams to
visit the crash site. Flt Sgt Davison (RAAF), Flt Sgt Becker (RCAF) and Sgt Luck (RAF)
survived the crash and became POW’s. Sgt Shelton (RAF) is interred in the Berlin
Heerstrasse Cemetery. The remaining three missing members of the crew are recorded as
having no known grave.
129
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403063 Sergeant MOONEY, Landon Pleasents
Source :
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/145/216
Commonwealth War Graves records
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Spitfire
AD 209
ATTD 118 SQN RAF
Summary:
Spitfire AD209 as Black No 2 was part of a formation of Spitfires detailed to provide
close escort to six Bostons detailed to attack the docks at Cherbourg, France. At
approximately 0930 hours when the formation was returning and some 30 miles from the
Needles, Black section who were on the right of the bombers were attacked from above
and behind by several ME109’s. Black 1 took violent evasive action and did not see
Black 2 again. Black 1 called up Black 2 and heard a very distracted transmission which
he took to be Black 1. Ibsley D/F station heard Black 2 ask for a homing, and Ibsley
continued to give homings for some time without reply from Black 2. No transmissions
were made by Black 2 for an ASR frequency.
It was presumed that Black 2 was shot down by the ME109’s about 25 miles south of the
Needles. A search by aircraft and boats were made that day but no trace of the missing
pilot or aircraft were found.
Crew :
RAAF
403063 Sgt LP Mooney, (Pilot)
It was later recorded that Sgt Mooney had lost his life at sea. His name is commemorated
on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.
130
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
410555 Sergeant MOORE, Cyril James
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/28/110
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Stirling
BS 436
75 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Stirling BS 436 of 75 (New Zealand) Sqn RAF, took off from RAF Mepal, near Ely,
Cambridgeshire on 5 July 1943 to lay mines in the Friesian Islands area. Nothing was
heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RNZAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
Sgt Thomas, M Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Stobbs, W E (Navigator)
Sgt Taylor, D A A (Air Bomber)
Sgt McLoughlin, J B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Lackenby, A (Flight Engineer)
410555 Sgt Moore, C J (Air Gunner)
Sgt Lavington. L O (Air Gunner)
131
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
423171 Flight Sergeant MOORE, Walter William
Source:
AWM 237 (65)
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
NAA : A705, 166/35/272
Commonwealth War Graves records
Liberator
BZ 873
ATTD 53 SQN RAF
Summary:
Liberator BZ873 took off from St Eval near Wadebridge, Cornwall at 2050 hours on the
night of 20/21st May 1944 to carry out a Leigh Light anti sub patrol over the Atlantic. At
0120 hours on 21st May a signal was received from the aircraft ‘investigating possible U
boat’. The signal was cancelled a few minutes later and since then nothing further was
heard. The aircraft failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
FO Bowman, G A Captain (Pilot)
8934 Flt Sgt J K Richards, (2nd Pilot)
Flt Sgt R D Christie, (1st Navigator)
423171 Flt Sgt W W Moore, (2nd Navigator)
Sgt G Harrison, (Wireless Operator Air)
420313 FO Watkins, H W (Wireless Air Gunner)
425024 Flt Sgt J T Kerr, (Wireless Air Gunner)
425311 Flt Sgt A F Johnson, (Wireless Air Gunner)
WO F W Atherton (Wireless Air Gunner)
FO McTaggart, W (Flight Engineer)
The patrol was down the French coast then out to sea down the Spanish coast to Gibraltra
and back. The aircraft was expected back about 8am 21st May. It left base at 6pm the day
before. Sgt Harrison body was washed ashore on the north coast of Spain. Atherton’s
body was found floating at sea by a fisherman who established the identity but did not
recover the body.
Sgt Harrison is buried in the Bilbao British Cemetery, Spain. Bilbao is a seaport in the
north of Spain.
All the remaining nine crew members have no known grave and their names are
commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.
132
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403874 Sergeant MOREY, Monte Ralph
Source:
NAA : A9301, Barcode 5523247
No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives.
But see NAA : A705, 163/175/101
Wellington
Aircraft Type:
Z 8568
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
104 Sqn RAF
Unit:
Wellington
Aircraft Type:
Z 8568
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
104 Sqn RAF
Unit:
Summary:
Wellington Z 8568 of 104 Sqn RAF took off at 2308 hours on 24 July 1942 from Kabrit,
Middle East to carry out night operations. On the 25 July the following signals were
received from Z 8568 :
0238 hours “serious engine trouble may be forced to land”
0246 hours “Ht 1500 feet, course 105deg airspeed 100 mph”.
0308 hours “position 31.02 N 27.30 E”.
The operator then changed frequency to Burg-el-Arab H/F D/F who worked the aircraft
until 0420 hours. By this time the aircraft should have reached Burg-el-Arab or the
vicinity thereof, but the aircraft did not land. Searches the next day found no trace of the
missing aircraft.
Sgt Stokes (RAF) a member of the crew who became a POW later stated “the aircraft
crashed near Fuka Egypt. Four airmen were killed in the crash in the Western desert on
25 July. Sgt Eke (RAF) was still alive and badly injured on the 26th. Stokes set out to
seek aid and was taken POW on 28 July. He told the Italians the whereabouts of the
aircraft and of Sgt Eke, and had not heard anything further.”
Crew:
RAF
Sgt Milner, R A Captain (Pilot)
RAF
Sgt Eke, G L (2nd Pilot)
RAF
Sgt Porter, D C (Observer)
RAAF
404662 Flt Sgt Vinnicombe, T L (1st Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
RAAF
403874 Sgt Morey, M R (2nd Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
RAF
Sgt Stokes, H M (Air Gunner)
Following post war searches and enquiries, when no trace of the five missing crew was
found the case was closed.
133
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402451 Sergeant MORGAN, Henry Blanchard
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/145/145
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
V 6324
17 Op Trg Unit RAF
Summary:
Blenheim V 6324 of No 17 Operational Training Unit RAF was flying in formation with
two other aircraft on 12 October 1941. When approx 60 miles out to sea east of Filey,
Yorkshire, the rear gunner of one of the aircraft reported V 6324 appeared to be in
trouble emitting black smoke from an engine with the airscrew loosing revolutions. The
aircraft executed a wide movement and then returned to the formation flying above and
behind. The aircraft then attempted to gain height, but as it turned the engine apparently
stalled and V 6324 dived into the sea. The other aircraft circled the position but no trace
of wreckage or survivors was seen other than an oil patch.
ASR rescue boats and aircraft searched the area but nothing was found.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
400482 Sgt Paul, M W E (Pilot)
402451 Sgt Morgan, H B (Observer)
Sgt Hamer, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
It was later recorded that the missing crew ha lost their lives at sea.
134
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
425719 Flight Sergeant MORLEY, Daniel Charles
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/28/192
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
DS 782
KO – K
115 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster DS 782 of 115 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Wichfield, Cambridge at 1737
hours on 22 November 1943 to bomb Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after
take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RCAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
Sgt Harris, J Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Hughes, D H
Sgt Boole, M
PO Smith, J M
Sgt Wilson, A
425719 Flt Sgt Morley, D C (Air Gunner)
Sgt Hurn, H A R
Following post war investigations and enquiries, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
135
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
406573 Flight Sergeant MORPHETT, Douglas Clarke
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/28/7
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
IW 4789
PH – E
12 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster IW 4789 of 12 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Wickenby, at 1626 hours
on the 17 January 1943 to bomb Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off
and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
406573 Flt Sgt D.C.Morphett, Captain (Pilot).
401848 Flt Sgt C.MacD.Miller, Navigator.
412099 Flt Sgt J.K.Bond, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
Sgt J.Corke.
Sgt L.E.Austin.
Sgt D.B.Pollitt.
Sgt W.B.Maunder.
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
136
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407093 Sergeant MORPHETT, Henry Leslie Benjamin
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/145/138
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Whitley
Z 6574
DY – B
102 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Whitley Z 6574 of 102 (Ceylon) Sqn RAF took off from RAF Topcliffe at 2035 hours on
6 September 1941 to carry out an operational mission against Huls. Whilst returning from
the mission, Z 6574 transmitted an SOS at 0135 hours on 7 September, to say it was
forced landing in the North Sea. A fix positioned the aircraft some 60 miles east of
Bircham Newton, Norfolk. Subsequent searches could not locate any wreckage or find
any survivors from the forced landing.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RCAF
RCAF
PO Croucher, J R
Sgt Tugman, J R
407063 Sgt Morphett, H L B (Observer)
Flt Sgt Halsey, A C
Glover, J
137
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
401242 Flight Sergeant MORTON, Lindsay Herbert
Source:
AWM 237 (65)
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
NAA : A705, 163/145/326 Commonwealth War Graves records
Lancaster
R 5673
OL – L
83 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster R 5673 of 83 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Wyton, Huntingdon, at
2205 hours on 6 November 1942 to bomb Genoa, Italy. Nothing was heard from the
aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RCAF
RAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
WO Long, V R Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Waite, J L G (Flight Engineer)
Flt Sgt Roberts, M L (Navigator)
401242 Flt Sgt Morton, L H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Chapman, W G (Air Bomber)
Sgt Mackay, E (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Hayward, P (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the
Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.
138
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
410845 Flight Sergeant MOXHAM, Bernard
Source:
AWM237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/28/291
Commonwealth War Graves records.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Micro Film No 463 OAFH
Lancaster
ED 847
PM – R
ATTD 166 SQN RAF
Summary:
Lancaster ED847 of 166 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Elsham Wolds, Barnetby,
Lincolnshire, at 2304 hours on the night of 26/27th April 1944, to attack Essen, Germany.
Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAF
RCAF
PO Sheppard, F Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Greenfield, A (Flight Engineer)
Flt Sgt Nichols, A L (Navigator)
Flt Sgt Leask, D G (Air Bomber)
410845 Flt Sgt Moxham, B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Bell, D H (Mid Upper Gunner)
Flt Sgt Quinn, (Rear Gunner)
Following post war investigations, it was established that the aircraft had exploded in mid
air and crashed at Buderich near Dusseldorf
Flt Sgt Moxham (RAAF) has no known grave and his name is commemorated on the
Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.
The remaining six crew members are interred at the Rheinberg War Cemetery, Locality
Kamp Lintfort, Nordrhein-Westfal, Germany. Rheinberg is 24kms north of Krefeld and
13kms south of Wesel.
139
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403875 Warrant Officer MUDIE, Reginald Edward
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/28/107
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Marauder
FK 129
TPT Commd ATT RCAF
Summary:
Marauder FK 129 of Transport Command attached to the RCAF crashed at sea at 1530
hours on 22 June 1943, 35 miles west of Borinqhon and 15 miles north west of Deschow
Island. Searches were made over many days but no trace of the missing crew or items of
equipment was found, but an oil slick was reported.
Crew:
RAAF
Mr Millar, H C Captain (US Civil employee)
Mr Burchfield, L (1st Officer) (US Civil employee)
403875 WO Mudie, R E (Observer)
Mr Vickeroy, P A (Canadian Radio Operator)
In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
140
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400480 Flight Sergeant MUELLER, Phillip John Otto
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/146/230
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Beaufighter
T 5278
248 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Beaufighter T 5278 of 248 Sqn RAF was one of three Beaufighters detailed on 1st
December 1942 to search for a Beaufighter missing from an intercept patrol on the
previous day. After taking off soon after 8am from RAF Talbenny, Pembrokeshire,
nothing was heard from the aircraft and all three search aircraft failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
400480 Flt Sgt Mueller, P J O (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Whitcombe, R (Navigator wireless)
In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
141
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405640 Warrant Officer MULLER, Frank Esbert
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/28/258
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HF 170
612 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HF 170 of 612 (County of Aberdeen) Sqn RAF took off from RAF Chivenor,
North Devon at 2149 hours on 17 March 1944 to carry out a 10 hour anti-submarine
patrol. At 03203 hours on 18 March 91 Group sent out a message to all aircraft to return
to base immediately. This was acknowledged by HF 170. No 19 Group subsequently
called HF 170 and received no reply. At 1030 hours on 18 March the aircraft had not
returned to base, and overdue action was taken.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Sgt Verdon, A Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Smith, R C (2nd Pilot)
405640 WO Muller, F E (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
Sgt Nash, R (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Crabb, G (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Clewer, R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
142
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
26117 Sergeant MULLER, Harold Frederick
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/28/6
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
ED 316
1656 Conversion RAF
Summary:
Lancaster ED 316 of 1656 Conversion Unit, RAF, took off from RAF Station Lindholme,
Yorkshire, at 1648 hours on the night of 17/18th January 1943 to attack Berlin. Nothing
was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RNZAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
Flt Lt Hood, S D L, Captain (Pilot)
416110 FO Walter, K B (Navigator/Bombaimer)
401259 PO Weaving, K A C (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
411109 Sgt Lindsay, D J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, (A/B))
Sgt Woodrow, H (Air Gunner)
22643 Sgt Logue, S E (Air Gunner)
26117 Sgt Muller, H F (Flight Engineer)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
143
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
424785 Flight Sergeant MULLINS, Raymond James
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/28/387
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Liberator
EV 899
53 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Liberator EV 899 of 53 Sqn RAF took off from RAF St Eval, near Wadebridge Cornwall,
at 1915 hours on 26 August 1944 to carry out an anti-sub patrol in the Channel area. At
0229 hours on the 27 August, suspicious contacts were made off the Les Sept Isles, flares
were dropped and two runs made on the Leigh Light. The night was very dark and
moonless. The Captain manouvred the aircraft for an attack at 100 feet.
The radio altimeter was flickering Amber/Red and the aircraft struck the sea. The Captain
came to the surface and found an inflated dinghy beside the fuselage. He and Sgt
Coombes and Sgt Steer made contact before the fuselage sank. They searched for the
others with torches and flame floats without success. The next morning an aircraft located
the three survivors, boats rescued them and landed them at Cherbourg.
Crew:
RAF
RNZAF
RAF
RAAF
RNZAF
RNZAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Lt Forbes, G M Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Reay, H C (2nd Pilot)
Flt Lt Hood ( 1st Navigator)
424785 Flt Sgt Mullins, R J ( 2nd Navigator Bomb Aimer)
Flt Sgt Barnes, W H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Falconer J C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Taak, W C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Ashworth, H R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Steer (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Coombes (Flight Engineer)
In 1949 it was recorded that the remaining seven missing crew members had lost their
lives at sea.
144
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405276 Flight Sergeant MUNDAY, Neville Richardson
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/28/198
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Sunderland
W 6060
4 ( C ) Training RAF
Summary:
Sunderland W 6060 of No 4 Conversion Training Unit from RAF Station Alness, Rossshire Scotland, took off at 2145 hours on 27 November 1943, to carry out non operational
training. The aircraft made five unsuccessful attempts to land. On the sixth attempt the
aircraft throttled down by No 3 flare, bounced twice, attempted to go around again, and
crashed into the flat calm sea in Cromarty Firth.
Crew:
RCAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
FO Hill, J Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Goudie, M (2nd Pilot)
405276 Flt Sgt Munday, N R (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
FO Forbes, J (Signaller Instructor)
Sgt Bannbiere, F (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Bromley, W W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Bridges, W (Wireless Operator Maintenance)
Sgt Bowen, W (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Linden. G (Fitter Maintenance Engines)
Sgt Limbrick, L (Air Gunner)
Sgt Keeping, E (Air Gunner)
It was later recorded that the five missing crew members Flt Sgt Munday (RAAF) and
Sgts Bridges, Bowen, Linden, Limbrick (all of the RAF) had no known grave. The other
six members were injured but survived.
145
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
413007 Warrant Officer MURPHY, Jack Donald
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/28/84
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Spitfire
MJ 151
111 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Spitfire MJ 151 of 111 Sqn RAF was one of 12 aircraft detailed to patrolling the Anzio
beachhead Italy, at 18,000 feet from 0650 hours on 20 March 1944. Two formations of
enemy aircraft 5000 feet below were sighted and the Spitfire formation dived to attack.
During combat the formation split up in the area between the beachhead and the River
Tiber. As the aircraft were returning from the patrol, MJ 151 called on the R/T that he
would have to bale out. He was not seen to bale out and MJ 151 did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
413007 WO Murphy, J D (Pilot)
It was later recorded that the aircraft had crashed into the sea, and that WO Murphy had
no known grave.
146
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407094 Flight Sergeant MURRAY, Geoffrey Hillam Gurr
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/141/117
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
R 9496
35 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Halifax R 9496 of No 35 (Madras Presidency) Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station
Linton-on-Ouse at 1909 hours on the night of 30/31 March 1942 to attack Trondheim,
Norway. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Sgt Archibald
Sgt Nelmes
407094 Flt Sgt Murray, G H G (Observer)
Sgt McLaren
Sgt Staff
Sgt Francis
Sgt Palmer
Following post war enquiries and investigations it was established that the aircraft
crashed 15kms north west of Drontheim, Norway on the 30 March. This is a point in the
sea a short distance from the north shore of Trondheim Fiord.
The bodies of Flt Sgt Archibald, Sgt McLaren and Sgt Francis (RAF) are interred in the
Military Cemetery at Drontheim. It was concluded that the remaining four missing crew
members had lost their lives at sea.
147
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
423208 Flight Sergeant MURRAY, John Ambrose McCormack
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/28/189
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HZ 129
15 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington HZ 129 of No 15 Operational Training Unit RAF took off on 19 November
1943 from RAF Portreath for Gibraltar, in transit for North Africa. The aircraft failed to
arrive at Gibraltar.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
413628 Flt Sgt Matheson, R H (Pilot)
419171 Flt Sgt Forbes, J R (Air Gunner)
423208 Flt Sgt Murray, J A McC (Air Gunner)
Sgt Robinson, E A
Sgt Deveney, P J
Sgt Harris, L S
Sgt Smith, L T
Sgt Wooldridge, F J
148
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
406149 Sergeant MUSTO, Clifford William
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/146/85
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
R 5499
EM – O
207 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster R 5499 of 207 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Bottesford, Nottinghamshire, at
2350 hours on 10 August 1942 to lay mines in the ‘Silverthorn’ area. The aircraft carried
5 x 1500 lb mines. Other aircraft reported that the weather was very bad with 10/10th
cloud to all heights down to 800 feet base, and very dark. Nothing was heard from the
aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RCAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
FO Spiers, J G Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Cladis, L G (2nd Pilot)
PO Easley, C (Observer)
Sgt Atkins, M W (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
FO Glazebrook, S DFM (Air Gunner)
406149 Sgt Musto, C W (Air Gunner)
PO Hatwell, R R (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
149
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
406030 Sergeant MUTTON, George
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/146/112
163/46/56 (Enclosure 5b)
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
9726
84 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim 9726 of No 84 Sqn RAF took off on 12 February 1942 from Palembang, Java,
to carry out a night raid. The aircraft got off the ground did a half circuit to come in to
land, attempted to turn around the flare path and passed right through the orderly room.
The aircraft was wrecked but did not catch fire.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
404144 Sgt Hyatt, J M (Pilot)
406030 Sgt Mutton, GT (Observer)
Sgt Irvine (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Irvine was injured, but he rejoined the Squadron after treatment. Both Sgt’s Hyatt
and Mutton were killed instantly and were buried on the drome at Palembang 11, with
Chaplain McWilliams conducting the burial service.
Following post war searches the graves of Sgt’s Hyatt and Sgt Mutton could not be
located as the area was overgrown with tropical vegetation. In 1951 it was recorded that
they have no known grave.
150
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
415174 Flight Sergeant NAILE, Leslie Jack
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/29/26
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
ED 988
HW – J
100 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster ED 988 of 100 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Grimsby, Lincolnshire at 1123
hours on 25 June 1943 together with 15 other aircraft to bomb Geksenkirchen, Germany.
Nothing was heard from ED 988 after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RNZAF
RAF
415174 Flt Sgt Naile, L J Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Connah, C (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Mepsted, R W (Navigator)
PO Reynolds, C P (Air Bomber)
Sgt Dillon, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Perritt, L G (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Bennett, L (Rear Gunner)
It was established post war that the aircraft had crashed at Middenbeemster, about 7 miles
north west of Edam, Holland, about 0100 hours on the 26 June 1943, and that all the crew
were killed instantly. The bodies of three of the crew were buried by the Germans at New
East Cemetery, Amsterdam, one identified as Sgt Bennett (RAF) and the other two
unidentified. It was found impossible to establish the whereabouts of the other crew
members, and they have no known grave and a Memorial plaque was erected at the New
Cemetery in 1946.
151
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403647 Flight Sergeant NASH, Joseph Herbert Graham
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/29/51 (a pension file)
A9301, Bar code 5522647
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
DV 569
37 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington DV 569 took off at 2100 hours on 22 February 1943 to attack a target at
Palermo, Sicily. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to
base.
Crew:
RAAF
403647 Flt Sgt Nash, J H G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
No other crew details are recorded in the above files.
152
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
425885 Flight Sergeant NAYLER, Edward Allan
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/29/113
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
LN 878
21 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington LN 878 of No 21 Operational Training Unit RAF took off from RAF Station
Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, on a day cross country exercise on 24 April 1944.
The last known position of the aircraft was a fix which placed LN 878 80 miles east of
Hull. The aircraft failed to return to base after the exercise.
Subsequent reports show that the Wireless Operator had contacted numerous stations
during the trip and was well up to his job. He would have taken correct action in distress
had he had time. There was no evidence to show how the aircraft became lost. From the
way the plot faded suddenly there is a strong possibility that it had been shot down by
enemy fighters. Subsequent searches found no trace of the missing aircraft or crew.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
414456 Sgt J.G.Beilby, Pilot.
432219 Sgt M.D.MacFarlane, Navigator.
Sgt J.M.Dunn, Air Bomber.
425885 Flt Sgt E.A.Nayler, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
Sgt W.Lane, Air Gunner.
Following post war enquiries and investigations it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
153
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
401528 Flight Sergeant NEALE, Alan Frank
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/29/2
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
W 4372
PH – G
12 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster W 4372 of 12 Sqn RAF took off at 1634 hours on 17 January 1943 from RAF
Station Wickenby, UK, to bomb Berlin. No further news received of the aircraft or crew.
Crew:
RNZAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Sgt Withell, E B Captain, (Pilot)
411739 PO Burrows, W G (Navigator)
411595 PO Mullinger, R B (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
401528 Flt Sgt Neale, A F (Air Bomber)
Sgt Hunter, J B (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Mitchell, A (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Richardson, L H (Rear Gunner)
The body of Sgt Mitchell, RAF was washed ashore at Nymindegab, on the south west
coast of Denmark, and buried at Esbjerg, Denmark.
154
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
410557 Flight Sergeant NEESON, Andrew John
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/29/88
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
ME 587
UM – Z2
626 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster ME 587 of 626 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Wickenby, Lincoln, at 1718 hours
on 31 January 1944 to attack Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off
and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RCAF
FO Wilkinson, J Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Noad, C A (Navigator)
Flt Sgt Lafferty, A E (Air Bomber)
410557 Flt Sgt Neeson, A J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Anderson, W A M (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Pomeroy, J S (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Allen, R N (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
155
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404036 Sergeant NEILL, Jack Carson Grayson
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/147/120
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Maryland
69 Sqn RAF
Summary:
A Maryland aircraft of 69 Sqn RAF left Luqa, Malta on 15 July 1941 to carry out a photo
recce over Tripoli and the North African coast. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after
take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
404019 Sgt Lee, C F (Pilot)
RAAF
402026 Sgt Simpson, J McK Observer)
RAAF
404036 Sgt Neill, J C G (Air Gunner)
There are no other details of any other crew member recorded on above file.
In 1948 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
156
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400120 Flight Sergeant NELL, Frederick John Gordon
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/147/211
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
R 3911
11 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim R 3911 of 11 Sqn RAF India, was detailed on 9 April 1942 to bomb enemy
shipping. It was lost at approx 12 midday as a result of enemy action.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAFR
404107 Sgt MacLennan, H A (Pilot)
408017 Sgt Travers, A R (Observer)
400120 Flt Sgt Nell, F J G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
157
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
423854 Flight Sergeant NELSON, John Arthur
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/29/158
Liberator
Aircraft Type:
BZ
978
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
159 Sqn RAF
Unit:
Summary:
Liberator BZ 978 of 159 Sqn RAF took off on 5 October 1944 together with 15 other
aircraft, on a low level attack on the Bangkok – Lampang railway line from Uttardit to
Bhanpajii. Locomotives were the primary target with opportunity targets along the
railway line secondary.
An SOS was received from BZ 978, and another 35 minutes later saying “Trying
Chittagong, two engines U/s, height 5000 feet, air speed 140 mph.” twenty four minutes
later another message was received “ unable to receive due to heavy interference”.
Eleven minutes later a final message to Base Control said “attacked by two enemy
fighters over target, one dead and two wounded” This was the last message received from
the aircraft which did not return to base.
ASR and air searches were carried out over the area the aircraft was thought to have
ditched. These reported on the night of 6/7th October that flashing lights and pyrotechnics
were seen in position 18.30N, 92.50E. No dinghy was seen.
On 7 October a dinghy was seen in position 18.55N, 92.22E.
On 9 October a dinghy was again sighted, but there was doubt whether this was the unit’s
dinghy. Nothing further was seen of the crew or dinghy.
Crew:
RAF
WO McKinnon, J Captain (Pilot)
RAF
Flt Sgt Roper, L J (2nd Pilot)
RAAF
416627 WO Swan, C S (Navigator)
RAAF
420172 WO Ford, E P Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
RAF
Sgt Hill, F E
RAAF
423854 Flt Sgt Nelson, J A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
RAF
Flt Sgt Paterson, W N (Air Gunner)
RCAF
Flt Sgt Richardson, H F (Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Richardson (RAF) reached the shore in a dinghy, but subsequently died in
Rangoon jail on 28 October 1944. Flt Sgt Roper and Sgt Hill (RAF) successfully reached
shore in a dinghy, survived and returned to the UK safe. It was established that WO Ford
(RAAF) was killed in the air by gun fire from enemy aircraft, and his body was not
158
recovered. Also the four other missing crew members were not seen to leave the aircraft
after ditching and their bodies were not recovered.
159
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
401529 Flight Sergeant NICHOLAS, William James
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/147/251
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Marauder
FK 155
14 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Marauder FK 155 of 14 Sqn RAF, British North African Forces, took off from Bone at
0510 hours on 9 May 1943, to carry out a shipping reconnaissance. Repeated requests for
weather reports were not answered by FK 155, and the aircraft did not return to base after
the mission.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
400940 Flt Sgt Russell, T G Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Fennell, P (2nd Pilot)
401007 WO Dyson, F V (Navigator)
401529 Flt Sgt Nicholas, W G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Armstrong, J W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Ayton, W H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it as recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
160
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403677 Warrant Officer NICKALLS, William
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/29/28
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HZ 874
70 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HZ 874 of 70 Sqn RAF took off at 2042 hours on 2 July 1943 to attack Olcia.
Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
403677 WO Nickalls, W Captain (Pilot)
Sgt McCarry, J P (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
Sgt Bennett, G H (Air Bomber)
Sgt Haywood, E J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Smith, G A (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries among the locals at La Maddalena, it was established that
the aircraft was shot down and crashed in the sea between Palau and La Maddalena.
Palau is on the north eastcoast of Sardinia, and La Maddalena is a small island off the
coast approx 3 miles north of Palau.
As no trace of the missing aircraft or crew was found, it was recorded that the crew had
lost their lives at sea.
161
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
428122 Flight Sergeant NICOLSON, Donald Tofft
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/29/251
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Liberator
KH 210
355 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Liberator KH 210 of 355 Sqn RAF was detailed on 2 May 1945 to bomb gun
emplacements at Rangoon, Burma. The aircraft took off at 0051 hours on 2nd May from
Sanbani, and at 0330 hours a message was received “position 20.52N, 89.33E, height
3000 feet, air speed 135mph”. From this it was assumed that the aircraft was returning
with engine trouble and would have arrived at Sabani at 0630 hours, but the aircraft failed
to arrive.
A search Catalina sighted wreckage and observed two crew clinging to the wreck badly
injured.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Sqn Ldr De Souza, G A Captain (1st Pilot)
Sqn Ldr Nicholson, J B VC DFC (Passenger)
434840 Flt Sgt Pullen, MH (2nd Pilot)
WO Spillard, J (Navigator)
428122 Flt Sgt Nicolson, D T (Wireless Operator Air)
Flt Sgt Doherty, S A (Wireless Operator Air)
Flt Sgt Cameron, D U (Flight Engineer)
FO Hill, B (Air Gunner)
FO Calland, J (Air Gunner)
Sgt Bell, R T (Air Gunner)
Sgt Helsby, L (Air Gunner)
Sgt Knightley, E L (Air Gunner)
Both Flt Sgt Pullen (RAAF) and Sgt Knightley (RAF) were rescued, and the body of Flt
Sgt Doherty (RCAF) recovered. It was recorded that the remaining 9 crew members had
lost their lives at sea.
162
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
409578 Sergeant NIXON, James Edwin
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/29/55
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
LW 287
51 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Halifax LW 287 of 51 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Snaith, near Goole,
Yorkshire, at 1757 hours on 2 October 1943, to carry out mine laying operations in
enemy shipping waters in the Baltic. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off
and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
409578 Sgt Nixon, J E Captain (Pilot)
FO Colner, J G (Navigator)
Sgt MacLean, D (Air Bomber)
Sgt Kent, E C (Wireless Operator)
Sgt Austin, G F (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Simpson, A F (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Nelson, G S (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
163
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405135 Sergeant NIXON, John Joseph
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/147/235
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Manchester
R 5833
VN 50 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Manchester R 5833 of 50 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Skellingthorpe, Lincolnshire, at
2225 hours on 5 June 1942, detailed to carry out a “gardening” in the Gorse area.
The aircraft failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
PO Garland, D W Captain (Pilot)
405135 Sgt Nixon, J J (2nd Pilot)
Sgt Moth, A (Observer)
402670 Sgt Ogilvie, R W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
PO Gill, R J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Gray, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt West, W R (Air Gunner)
PO Gill (RAF) who became a POW later reported that “the aircraft was shot down on 6th
June and crashed into the sea off the French coast near Lorient. It hit the water and I
remember nothing until I came to the surface and find blazing petrol on the water. No one
else was to be seen. The Germans told me there was only one survivor”.
German documents stated that all were killed on 6 June, but the location of any graves
was not stated. In 1948 it was concluded that the missing crew members had lost their
lives at sea.
164
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
422349 Warrant Officer NOBLE, Ian Richard Steele
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/33/253
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Commonwealth War Graves records
Liberator
BZ 943
ATTD 86 SQN RAF
Summary:
Liberator BZ 943 of 86 Sqn RAF took off at night on 18th November 1944 from RAF
Station Tain, Scotland, on a non-operational training flight using the Leigh Light. The
aircraft crashed in the sea about 11 miles north east of Banff, Scotland. Continuous
searches for any survivors were made by aircraft and rescue launches.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RNZAF
414079 PO Pordage, H (Navigator)
420389 WO Hough, G F (Navigator Bombaimer)
422349 WO Noble, I R S (Wireless Operator Air)
420786 WO Peck, R J (Wireless Operator Air)
421360 WO Mellon, J (Wireless Operator Air)
411302 FO Easterbrook, S D (Navigator Bombaimer)
Flt Lt Gates
Flt Sgt McCabe
PO Humphreys, J A (Wireless Operator Air)
FO Norrie
The remains of FO Easterbrook (RAAF) and Flt Sgt Humphreys (RAF) were recovered,
but the remaining crew members were listed as having lost their lives at sea.
FO Easterbrook is buried in the Bellie Burial Ground, Moray shire, Scotland.
PO Humphries is buried in the Livgerpool (Anfield) Cemetery, Lancashire, UK.
The other missing crew members have no known grave, and their names are
commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.
165
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400864 Sergeant NODRUM, Eric Charles
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/147/172
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Vilderbeest
K 4599
36 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Vilderbeest K 4599 of 36 Sqn RAF was reported lost in enemy action over Endau,
Malaya, on 26 January 1942. Other crew reported seeing K 4599 shot down by Japanese
carrier borne fighter aircraft and crash in flames.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAF
Sgt Lyell, E (Pilot)
400864 Sgt Nodrum, E C (Observer)
Sgt Haggan, (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and searches it was recorded in 1951 that the missing crew
had no known grave.
166
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
409215 Flight Sergeant NOONAN, Francis Arthur
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/30/25
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Beaufighter
V 8187
255 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Beaufighter V 8187 off 255 Sqn RAF Middle East, took off from RAF Blida on 27
August 1943 to carry out a calibration flight of the Palermo RDF Station, Sicily. The
aircraft was attacked some 5 miles east of Scotella by two Spitfires of an American
Squadron who mistook the Beaufighter for a German JU88. Hits were seen on V 8187,
and Flt Noonan a member of 40 Sqn RAF and who was a passenger in V 8187, was seen
slumped in the cockpit.
The pilot attempted to make for land and covered about 40 miles to shore when one
engine caught fire and he attempted to ditch in the sea but crashed.
An empty rubber dinghy was sighted, but no trace of the missing crew was found.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
420086 Flt Sgt Waddell, R R (Pilot)
409215 Flt Sgt Noonan, F A (Pilot – Pax)
167
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
412176 Flight Sergeant NORMAN, Ernest Edward
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/30/20
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
W 4893
1662 Conversion RAF
Summary:
Lancaster W 4893 of No 1662 Conversion Unit RAF, took off from RAF Blyton near
Gainsborough Lincolnshire, on 20 July 1943 to carry out a daytime training flight over
the UK. The route was Blyton – Alston – St John – Isle of Man – Bardsey Island –
Aberdovey – Thane – Binbrook – Maplethorpe – return to Blyton. Part of the flight was
over the sea. The aircraft was to be at Binbrook at 1630 hours to carry out air firing.
Nothing was heard from the aircraft and it did not return to base. Despite extensive
searches no trace was found of the missing aircraft or crew. It was thought possible that it
had crashed in the Welsh mountains.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
412176 Flt Sgt Norman, E E Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Head, (Navigator)
Sgt Raisbeck, (Air Bomber)
Sgt Haworth (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Lysaght (Flight Engineer)
Sgt McCullock, (Air Gunner)
Sgt Pearce, (Air Gunner)
In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
168
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402279 Sergeant NORTH, Hunter Arthur Aubrey
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/147/124
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
Z 8868
57 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington Z 8868 of 57 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Feltwell, at 1920 hours on
29 September 1941 to attack military objectives at Genoa, Italy. At 0006 hours on 30
September a message was received from Z 8868 stating NAP. At 0341 hours a further
message stated NOZ, and also requested a QDM and was given a bearing of 314 degrees.
At 0409 hours at further QDM of 314 degrees was given, and later QDM’s at 0420 and
0502 hours of 315 degrees. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft after this, and it
failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RCAF
RAF
RCAF
Sgt Paul, J W Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Greenwood, A H (2nd Pilot)
402279 Sgt North, H A A (Observer)
Sgt Postans, R (1st Wireless Operator)
Sgt Hudson, C E (2nd Wireless Operator)
Sgt Chapman, G L (Air Gunner)
It was later recorded that a photograph had been recovered some time before 28
November 1941 near Schiermonnik Island, one of the Friesian Group of Islands off the
north coast of Holland. A message on the photo stated that Sgt North (RAAF) and Sgt
Postans (RCAF) had been in a dinghy for two days. No trace of the aircraft or missing
crew was found, and it was assumed that the crew had lost their lives at sea.
169
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407180 Warrant Officer NOURSE, Arthur George Myers
Source:
NAA : A705,163/147/147
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
BA 494
113 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim BA 494 of 113 Sqn RAF India, was reported missing on 25 May 1943. Parts of
the wreckage of BA 494 was later found on the beach in Bahir Char district near Fenni,
and also a revolver of one of the crew. The wreck was located on the riverside at
Charkhandakir, which is about 6 miles south east of P.S.Sonagazi, and about 12 miles
south sou’ west of Fenni. A body was also found but before it could be recovered, it was
washed out by the tide.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAF
Sgt Lancaster, A N (Pilot)
407108 WO Nourse, A G M (Observer)
Sgt Anderson, G E (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
170
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
423174 Flight Sergeant O'BRIEN, George John Patrick
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/31/336
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
RA 503
106 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster RA 503 of 106 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Metheringham, Lincoln, at 1330
hours on 12 March 1945 to attack Dortmund, Germany. RA 503 was one of fourteen
squadron aircraft on the mission. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it
did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RCAF
WO Baker, F E Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Carter, D Y (Flight Engineer)
Flt Sgt Harding, H G (Navigator)
Flt Sgt Cooper W J (Air Bomber)
423174 Flt Sgt O’Brien, G J P (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Haw, K R (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Gillander, R H (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
171
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403876 Sergeant O'BRIEN, John Ormond
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/87/224. Commonwealth War Graves records
Micro Film 463 OAFH, W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses of the Second
World War, Page 128, Volume 1942
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Manchester
L 7387
EA ATTD 49 SQN RAF
Summary:
Manchester L7387 of 49 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Scampton, Lincolnshire, at 1000
hours on 20 June 1942, to carry out a search in an area 53.40N to 53.50N and 01.40E to
3deg east. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
403876 Sgt J.O.O’Brien. (Pilot)
405162 Sgt T.F.B.McKenna. (Navigator)
401359 Sgt K.Allen, (Air Bomber)
402539 Sgt H.W.Price. Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
Sgt Goldring.
Sgt H.J.Rogers.
Sgt CA.Garos.
The bodies of Sgts McKenna and Price, ( RAAF), were recovered from the sea.
Sgt McKenna is buried in the Kviberg Cemetery, Sweden.
Sgt Price is buried on the Island of Schiermonnikoog, (Vredenhof), Netherlands.
The remaining crew members were presumed to have lost their lives at sea and have no
known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing,
Runnymede, Surrey, UK.
172
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403761 Sergeant O'CONNELL, Peter
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/148/275
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Spitfire
AB 120
1 Photo Reconnaissance RAF
Summary:
Spitfire AB 120 of No 1 Photo Reconnaissance Unit, RAF Benson, Oxford, took off from
Mt Farm on the afternoon of 11 August 1942, to carry out an operational photo recce of
the Wilhelmshaven and Kiel areas, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after
take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
403761 Sgt O’Connell, P (Pilot)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
pilot had lost his life at sea.
173
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
416697 Flight Sergeant O'DONNELL, John Patrick
Source:
AWM 237(65)
NAA : A705, 166/31/134 166/39/194
Commonwealth War Graves records. W R Chorley:RAF Bomber Command Losses
Operational Training Units, 1940-1947. Page 268, Volume 7.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
X 3805
-H
20 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington X 3805 of No 20 Operational Training Unit RAF took off from
RAF Losiemouth, Morayshire, Scotland, on 28 December 1943, for an operational
training flight. The aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff when first the port and then the
starboard engines failed. The aircraft crashed into the sea about 3 miles from land and
north of Dallachy, Scotland. Rescue operations began immediately and four bodies were
recovered but no survivors were found.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
426823 PO Boyd, H W Captain (Pilot)
416697 Flt Sgt O’Donnell, J P, (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
417903 Sgt Thomas, J E (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
Sgt W M Bridge
Sgt R Summers
Sgt K Dunkerly
The bodies of PO Boyd, Sgt’s Thomas, Bridge, and Summers are buried at Lossiemouth
Burial Ground, Scotland. Both Flt Sgt O’Donnell and Sgt Dunkerly are listed as having
lost their lives at sea, and have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the
Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK.
174
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
416784 Warrant Officer O'DONOGHUE, Desmond Pius
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/31/183
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Beaufighter
NE 664
236 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Beaufighter NE 664 of 236 Sqn RAF took off from RAF North Coates, near Grimsby,
Lincolnshire, together with three other squadron aircraft to carry out operations off the
Dutch coast. At 2336 hours an attack was made by all the aircraft on enemy shipping, and
after this nothing was seen or heard from ‘J’ for Johnny, NE 664, and the aircraft did not
return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
416784 WO O’Donoghue, D P (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Allen, (Navigator Wireless)
In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
175
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402670 Sergeant OGILVIE, Robert William
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/148/233
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Manchester
R 5833
VN 50 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Manchester R 5833 of 50 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Skellingthorpe, Lincolnshire, at
2225 hours on 5 June 1942, detailed to carry out a “gardening” in the Gorse area.
The aircraft failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
PO Garland, D W Captain (Pilot)
405135 Sgt Nixon, J J (2nd Pilot)
Sgt Moth, A (Observer)
402670 Sgt Ogilvie, R W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
PO Gill, R J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Gray, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt West, W R (Air Gunner)
PO Gill (RAF) who became a POW later reported that “the aircraft was shot down on 6th
June and crashed into the sea off the French coast near Lorient. It hit the water and I
remember nothing until I came to the surface and find blazing petrol on the water. No one
else was to be seen. The Germans told me there was only one survivor”.
German documents stated that all were killed on 6 June, but the location of any graves
was not stated. In 1948 it was concluded that the missing crew members had lost their
lives at sea.
176
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
416071 Sergeant O'KEEFE, Geoffrey Aldysius
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/31/1
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
W 5401
104 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington W 5401 of 104 Sqn RAF Middle East took off at 1754 hours on 6 January
1943 together with 7 other aircraft to bomb the docks at Tunis. As a result of bad weather
over the target area, the formation changed course for Sousse. Heavy ack-ack fire was
encounterwed at Sousse, and two aircraft reported seeing an explosion at 7000 feet at
2130 hours, and immediately after saw an aircraft on fire on the ground 3 to 5 miles SSW
of Sousse. W 5401 failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
Sqn Ldr Strutt, L C DFC Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Yudell, I N (2nd Pilot)
PO Lonsdale, T (Observer)
Sgt Redmond, J J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
416071 Sgt O’Keefe, G A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Kellett, J J (Air Gunner)
The bodies of Sqn Ldr Strutt (RAF) and Flt Sgt Yudell (RCAF) were reported to have
been recovered but the place of recovery and burial was not stated. Post war searches
failed to find any trace of any burial site or graves nor any trace of the remaining missing
crew members.
177
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405061 Sergeant O'KEEFFE, Claude Edward John
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/148/292
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
L 7822
78 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Halifax L 7822 of 78 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Linton-on-Ouse, Yorkshire, at
night at 2009 hours on 26 September 1942 to carry out an operational mission. At 2302
hours a message was received ‘may be forced to land without further signal, both outer
engines U/S, attacked by fighters, petrol shortage.’ The aircraft was known to be flying
over the sea west of the Danish coast when the message was received. Nothing further
was heard from the aircraft and it failed to return to base,
Crew:
RAF
RCAF
RCAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
PO Atkinson, R E Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Gray, S (2nd Pilot)
Sgt Ernst, L S (Observer)
Sgt Thomas, A (Air Bomber)
405061 Sgt O’Keefe, C E J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Crofton, W (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Bath, P J (Air Gunner)
Sgt Lister, F (Air Gunner)
In 1948 it was concluded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
178
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402749 Sergeant OLDHAM, Edward Murray
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/148/206
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Spitfire
BL 249
131 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Spitfire BL 249 of 131 (County of Kent) Sqn RAF took off at 1405 hours on 27 March
1942 to carry out a convoy patrol. The aircraft was returning to base after the patrol in
company with another aircraft. Whilst over the sea in the vicinity of the Isle of Man, BL
249 broke away from its leader when both were trying to establish R/T communications
with base. BL 249 was not seen again and it did not return to base.
It was thought that a contributory reason was that it may have been given an incorrect
vector to steer back to base from its last known position, and that the aircraft may have
been given a course to steer which directed it towards the middle of the Irish Sea.
Crew:
RAAF
402749 Sgt Oldham, E M (Pilot)
179
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
412664 Flight Sergeant O'LOGHLEN, Patrick Francis
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/31/92
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
142 Sqn RAF
Summary:
A Wellington aircraft of 142 Sqn RAF, British North African Force took off from RAF
Kairouan at 0030 hours on 7 August 1943 to attack Messina Beaches. Nothing was heard
from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
Sqn Ldr Thompson, A E Captain (Pilot)
PO Playfair, P J (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
Sgt Marsh, W W (Bomb Aimer)
Sgt Elderson, W K (Wireless Telegraphist/Air Gunner)
412664 Flt Sgt O’Loghlen, P F (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
It was concluded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
180
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402604 Sergeant O'NEILL, James Cornelius
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/148/340
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
W 4382
VN 50 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster W 4382 of 50 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Skellingthorpe,
Lincolnshire, at 1705 hours on the night of 17/18th December 1942 to attack a target at
Soltau, Germany. The aircraft failed to return to base and the loss was attributed to
enemy action.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
Flt Lt Atkinson, J C, Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Martin, F (Flight Engineer)
401287 FO Rowling, P W (Navigator)
404622 PO Smith, H W J, DFM (Air Bomber)
402604 Sgt O’Neill, J C (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
407956 FO Walker, C W (Air Gunner)
Sgt Reilly, J M (Air Gunner)
Post war investigations and enquiries failed to reveal any trace of the missing aircraft or
crew, and in 1950 it was recorded that the crew had lost their lives with no known grave.
181
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
415949 Flight Sergeant O'NEILL, Richard Glassen
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/31/159
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
LK 763
EY – K
78 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Halifax LK 763 of 78 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Brighton, near Selby, Yorkshire, at
0011 hours on 20 February 1944 to attack Leipzig, Germany. Nothing was heard from the
aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
Sgt Smith, J Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Coulter, R (Navigator)
Flt Sgt Douglas-Pulleyne, J (Bomb Aimer)
Sgt Reynolds, G (Wireless Operator)
Sgt Beal, G (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Mears, L E (Mid Upper Gunner)
415949 Flt Sgt O’Neill, R G (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
182
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400354 Sergeant OPAS, Athol Louis
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/148/267
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
AD 629
108 Sqn RAF.
Summary:
Wellington AD 629 of 108 Sqn RAF took off at 1946 hours on 12 August 1942 to carry
out an operational sortie against Tobruk. Nothing further was heard of the aircraft or crew
after take off.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
402425 Sgt Watts, D.M., Captain, (Pilot)
402864 FO Gengos, W 2nd Pilot
PO Harris, R, Navigator.
400354 Sgt Opas, A L Wireless Operator
402596 Sgt Hart, M.D. Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
Sgt Taylor, J W. Rear Gunner
In 1948 it was recorded that all the crew lost their lives and have no known grave.
183
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407374 Flight Sergeant OSBORN, Stanley Albert
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/31/25
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
Z 7927
11 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim Z 7927 of 11 Sqn RAF took off at 1130 hours on 14 March 1943, together with
2 other Blenheims to drop incendiaries on enemy positions in Burma. At 1245 hours the
formation was attacked by 9 enemy fighters. Z 7927 broke formation with its starboard
engine smoking and crashed near the village of Hparabyn, Burma. The village is located
about 25 miles north of Akyab, Burma.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
406409 PO Richardson, F H (Pilot)
401018 FO Williams, M G (Navigator Bombaimer)
407374 Flt Sgt Osborn, S A (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
It was later established that FO Williams managed to extricate himself from the wreckage
but was burned. He was taken by villagers to hospital and thence to Maungdaw hospital
where he died of injuries. He was buried in the cemetery at Maungdaw. The villagers
stated that both PO Richardson and Flt Sgt Osborn were killed instantly in the crash, and
they were buried on high ground near the wreck of the aircraft and the grave marked with
a wooden cross.
In 1949 a search party visited the scene of the crash which was located about half a mile
from the village of Hparabyn, Burma at 20.41N, 92.34E. However the search party could
not locate the grave of the two missing crew members and it was recorded that they had
no known grave.
184
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400287 Sergeant PAINTER, Ernest George
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/149/129
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hudson
T 9381
6 Op Trg RAF
Summary:
Hudson T 9381 of No 6 Operational Training Unit RAF was detailed to carry out daytime
local flying practice in the vicinity of the drome on 29 October 1941. The local weather
at the time was suitable for local flying. There was however a poor weather forecast and
the crews were warned to keep a close watch on the weather.
About an hour after take off a snow storm developed over the drome. T 9381 was not
seen again after the first take off, and intensive searches could not locate the missing
aircraft or crew. All other aircraft in the air at the same time landed safely.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
400287 Sgt Painter, E G (Pilot)
Sgt Lloyd, B M
185
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403951 Flight Sergeant PARADISE, Reginald William
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/32/6
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hudson
V 9031
279 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Hudson V 9031 of 279 Sqn RAF was detailed to carry out an ASZR search off the
Lizzard. The aircraft took off at 0820 hours on 7 January 1943 from RAF Station St Eval,
but nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RNZAF
RAAF
RAF
416140, Flt Sgt W.M.Arnold, Pilot.
Sgt J.D.Slater, Navigator Bombaimer.
403951 Flt Sgt.R.W.Paradise, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
Sgt R.Bannister, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
186
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400599 Sergeant PARKER, Graham Burford
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/149/166
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Maryland
1639
69 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Maryland 1639 of 69 Sqn RAF was returning to Malta on 18 March 1942 from a recce
patrol. When some 4 miles southwest of Filfola in the Malta area, it was attacked by
enemy fighters and shot down into the sea. ASR searches were carried out but no trace of
the aircraft or crew were found.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
400599 Sgt G.B.Parker, Pilot.
402275 Sgt R.K.Grimley, Observer.
402196 Sgt W.E.Anderson, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
Sgt G.J.Relemaunt, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
187
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402391 Sergeant PARKER, Thomas Dudley
Source:
NAA : A9301, Barcode 5049050
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hurricane
3 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Sgt Parker of No 3 Sqn RAF based at RAF Station Hunsdon, with detachments at
Manston and Shoreham, was reported missing on air operations on 12 October 1941. It is
believed he parachuted from his Hurricane aircraft, was fired on and shot out of his
parachute.
Crew:
RAAF
402391 Sgt Parker, T D (Pilot)
188
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
415090 Sergeant PARKES, Jack Elliott
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/32/36
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
BK 160
12 Op Trg RAF
Summary:
Wellington BK 160 of No 12 Operational Training Unit RAF, was detailed to drop
pamphlets in the Orleans area, France. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after it took
off at 1907 hours on 19 February 1943 from RAF Chipping Warden, near Banbury,
Oxfordshire, and it did not return to base. Orleans is approx 72 miles south west on Paris.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
415090 Sgt Parkes, J E (Pilot)
405260 Sgt Martin, A H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
PO Sheppherd
Sgt York
Sgt Kee
Following post war investigations and enquiries it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
189
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
408089 Flight Sergeant PARSONS, Charles James Silas
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/149/180
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
Z 7902
203 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim Z 7902 of 203 Sqn RAF took off at 0930 hours on 14 April 1942 from Bu
Amud to carry out an operational recce over the Mediterranean. The aircraft was due
back at base at 1530 hours, but it failed to return to base.
Crew:
SRAF
RAAF
RAAF
Flt Lt Bowker, M B (Pilot)
400518 Sgt Hayes, H J (Observer)
408089 Flt Sgt Parsons, C J S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
190
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
411372 Sergeant PATERSON, Frederick Harley
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/32/32
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
W 4313
SR – G
101 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster W 4313 of 101 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Holme-on-Spalding Moor,
Yorkshire, at 1731 hours on 11 February 1943 to bomb Wilhelmshaven, Germany. The
aircraft was due back at base at 2254 hours. Nothing was heard from W 4313 after take
off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
405586 Flt Sgt Hiley, A E Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Spivey, E T (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Collins, R A (Navigator)
411372 Sgt Paterson, F H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Teviotdale, T (Bomb Aimer)
Sgt Bozier, R T (Mid Upper Gunner)
411259 Sgt Quinlan, S G (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was established that the aircraft
crashed and exploded on impact on the edge of a sandbank near the Isle of Juist at approx
8pm on 11 February 1943. Juist is one of the Friesian Island group of islands off the
German coast near the border with Holland. German documents had recorded that Sgt
Paterson had been buried at Dunes cemetery Juist, but this had been found to be
incorrect, and although it had been reported that six bodies of the crew had been
recovered from the sea and buried on the island, exhaustive searches and exhumations
had failed to establish the identity of any member of the crew.
It was subsequently recorded that the missing crew members had no known grave.
191
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
414825 Flight Sergeant PATERSON, James Everest
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/32/160
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HE 657
104 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HE 657 of 104 Sqn RAF Middle East, took off from Hani West Landing
Ground at 2108 hours on the night of 7 August 1943 to attack Cape Palmi, Italy. Cape
Palmi is on the south west coast of Italy, approx 20 miles north east of Reggio. Nothing
was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
Sgt Hall, K Captain (Pilot)
414825 Flt Sgt Paterson, J E (Navigator)
Sgt Garner, W (Air Bomber)
Sgt Chauncy, P A R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
413679 Sgt Spalding, N W (Air Gunner)
Following intensive post war searches of the Cape {Palmi area, no trace of the missing
aircraft or crew were found, and it was concluded that the crew had lost their lives at sea.
192
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405646 Sergeant PATTON, John Crockett
Source:
NAA : A9301, Barcode 5524738
No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Mitchell
41-12499
3 BOMB Group USAAF
Summary:
Mitchell 41-12499 of No 13 Bombing Sqn, 3rd Bombardment Group, USAAF was
reported missing on a combat mission to Milne Bay, New Guinea, on 25 August 1942. It
had left Port Moresby on an unaccompanied flight.
Crew:
RAAF
405646 Sgt Patton, J C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
No other crew details is available from the above file.
193
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400482 Sergeant PAUL, Maxwell William Elliot
Source:
NAA : A705,163/149/116
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
V 6324
17 Op Trg Unit RAF
Summary:
Blenheim V 6324 of No 17 Operational Training Unit RAF was flying in formation with
two other aircraft on 12 October 1941. When approx 60 miles out to sea east of Filey,
Yorkshire, the rear gunner of one of the aircraft reported V 6324 appeared to be in
trouble emitting black smoke from an engine with the airscrew loosing revolutions. The
aircraft executed a wide movement and then returned to the formation flying above and
behind. The aircraft then attempted to gain height, but as it turned the engine apparently
stalled and V 6324 dived into the sea. The other aircraft circled the position but no trace
of wreckage or survivors was seen other than an oil patch.
ASR rescue boats and aircraft searched the area but nothing was found.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
400482 Sgt Paul, M W E (Pilot)
402451 Sgt Morgan, H B (Observer)
Sgt Hamer, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
It was later recorded that the missing crew ha lost their lives at sea.
194
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
416280 Flight Sergeant PEARCE, Allan Edgar
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/32/31
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Spitfire
BS 318
611 Sqn RAF
Summary:
At 1520 hours on 11 February 1943, White Section with Flt Sgt Pearce (White 1) Leader
flying Spitfire BS 318, and Sgt Davren, RAF (White 2), took off from Biggin Hill for a
low level operational patrol. When patrolling at zero feet about ten miles off Beachy
Head, White 2 saw his Leader’s aircraft touch the water and immediately disappear.
White 2 gave a mayday and began a search followed immediately by an organised search
but no trace of Flt Sgt Pearce was found. There was no enemy aircraft in the vicinity at
the time.
Crew:
RAAF
416280 Flt Sgt Pearce, A E (Pilot)
In 1948 it was recorded that Flt Sgt Pearce had lost his life at sea.
195
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
432969 Flight Sergeant PEARCE, Stanley David
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/32/740
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
LM 177
PM – Z
103 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster LM 177 of 103 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Elsham Wolds, Barnetby,
Lincolnshire, was detailed to lay mines in enemy waters in the Aarhus Bay, Denmark.
LM 177 took off at the appointed on the night of 4/5th April 1945 but nothing further was
heard and the aircraft did not return to base.
Four other 103 Squadron aircraft took part in the mission, and when homeward bound
from the Danish coast, members of another crew saw three aircraft shot down behind
them but were unable to identify any individual aircraft. Two of the aircraft appeared to
crash into the sea and one on the land. In each case the mines would have been already
laid.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
414031 FO Hole, L, Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Kelly, E (Flight Engineer)
430123 Flt Sgt Jeffrey, S A (Air Bomber)
437854 Flt Sgt Hodge, C J (Navigator)
432969 Flt Sgt Pearce, S D (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
437300 FO Vallentine, V L (Mid Upper Gunner)
435489 Flt Sgt Shannon, E F (Rear Gunner)
In 1949 it was reported that all efforts to find any trace of the aircraft or crew had been
unsuccessful and the crew had been recorded as missing lost at sea.
196
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
420786 Warrant Officer PECK, Reginald John
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/33/253
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Commonwealth War Graves records
Liberator
BZ 943
ATTD 86 SQN RAF
Summary:
Liberator BZ 943 of 86 Sqn RAF took off at night on 18th November 1944 from RAF
Station Tain, Scotland, on a non-operational training flight using the Leigh Light. The
aircraft crashed in the sea about 11 miles north east of Banff, Scotland. Continuous
searches for any survivors were made by aircraft and rescue launches.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RNZAF
414079 PO Pordage, H (Navigator)
420389 WO Hough, G F (Navigator Bombaimer)
422349 WO Noble, I R S (Wireless Operator Air)
420786 WO Peck, R J (Wireless Operator Air)
421360 WO Mellon, J (Wireless Operator Air)
411302 FO Easterbrook, S D (Navigator Bombaimer)
Flt Lt Gates
Flt Sgt McCabe
PO Humphreys, J A (Wireless Operator Air)
FO Norrie
The remains of FO Easterbrook (RAAF) and Flt Sgt Humphreys (RAF) were recovered,
but the remaining crew members were listed as having lost their lives at sea.
FO Easterbrook is buried in the Bellie Burial Ground, Moray shire, Scotland.
PO Humphries is buried in the Livgerpool (Anfield) Cemetery, Lancashire, UK.
The other missing crew members have no known grave, and their names are
commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.
197
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
408873 Flight Sergeant PEKIN, Stanley Thomas
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/32/168
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
JD 458
VR – C
419 Sqn Royal Canadian Air Force
Summary:
Halifax JD 458 of No 419 (Moose) Sqn RCAF, took off from Middelton, St George, on
18 August 1943 to bomb Peenemunde, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft
after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
408873 Flt Sgt Pekin, S T Captain (Pilot)
FO Sparkes, P J (Navigator)
Sgt Gilvary, J K (Bomb Aimer)
Sgt Price, H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Baker, H C (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Davis, P P (2nd Gunner)
Sgt Ramm, E C (Rear Gunner)
The bodies of Sgt Ramm and Sgt Baker (RAF) were washed ashore at Rugen Island in
the Baltic sea close to the north coast of Germany, and are interred in the Berlin
(Heerstrasse) British Military Cemetery. It was later recorded that the remaining missing
crew members had lost their lives at sea.
198
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400182 Sergeant PENDER, Joseph James
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/150/103
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
Z 7418
55 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim Z 7418 of 55 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Fuka, at 1800Z hours in formation
with a Blenheim flown by PO Downer, to carry out a sea sweep against enemy shipping
reported off the coast of Cyrenaica, and return to Sidi Barrani. The sweep was carried out
as ordered. As it became dark the formation leader put his formation keeping lights on for
the 2nd aircraft to keep formation, which it did. It also switched on his navigation lights.
As they were still over enemy territory, the leader instructed 2nd Lt Murphy to switch off
his navigation lights. He failed to comply with this order. The message was flashed by
Aldis lamp. While passing Derna the 2nd aircraft disappeared from sight at approx 1700z
hours. The leader continued on his flight and landed at Sidi Barrani at 1805Z. At approx
1835Z an aircraft circled Sidi Barrani and fired off the correct recognition signal
cartridge. The aircraft did not attempt to land but made off in an easterly direction. It
failed to re-appear. A search next day by 2 Blenheims from the Squadron failed to find
any trace of the missing aircraft.
Crew:
SAAF
RAAF
RAAF
2nd Lt Murphy (Pilot)
404282 PO MacDonald, J C (Observer)
400182 Sgt Pender, J J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
In 1948 the search for the missing aircraft was abandoned, the crew being registered as
having no known grave.
199
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
23113 Flight Sergeant PEPPERRELL, Archibald James
Source:
NAA : A9301, 4513154.
No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
JB 149
SR - R2
101 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster JB 149 of 101 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Market Rasen, Lincoln, at 1947
hours on 3 September 1943 to attack Berlin. The ETA back at base was 0430 hours on 4
September. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to
base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
Flt Sgt Hammond, F J Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Paddon, F D (Flight Engineer)
420651 Flt Sgt Fairbairn, G S (Navigator)
421134 Flt Sgt Singer, R J (Bombaimer)
Sgt Sedman, K W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Southwell, W A (Mid Upper Gunner)
23113 Flt Sgt Pepperrell, A J (Rear Gunner)
Both Flt Sgt Hammond (RAF) and Flt Sgt Singer (RAAF) became POW’s.
In a statement by Flt Sgt Hammond, he reported “owing to the circumstances of the
destruction of the aircraft, I was unable to see or contact my Navigator. I believe he was
killed, although I did not see him or hear him at all, before I finally was able to leave the
very damaged aircraft.”
Flt Sgt Singer reported “the aircraft crashed in the Berlin area. I baled out and was the
first to leave the aircraft. The only knowledge of the other crew members is of the Pilot
who was repatriated. I have never seen or heard of the other members.”
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing
crew members had no known grave.
200
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
416698 Flight Sergeant PETCH, Robert Geoffrey
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/32/136
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Beaufighter
EL 273
27 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Beaufighter EL 273 of No 27 Sqn RAF India, took off from Agartala on 29 June 1943 to
carry out operations over enemy territory. EL 273 was last seen flying perfectly at about
1000/1500 feet, between the ferry south of Satthwa situated on the west coast of Burma
(approx 17.48N) and Zigon approx 9 miles south and 3 to 4 miles inland. The aircraft
failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
416698 Flt Sgt Petch, R G (Pilot)
Sgt Thomas, (Navigator Wireless)
It was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.
201
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400355 Flight Sergeant PETERS, Albert Alfred Charles
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/150/221
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
Z 8522
104 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington Z 8522 of 104 Sqn RAF took off on 9 October 1942 to attack Landing
Grounds Nos 17 and 18 on night operations in Libya. Nothing was heard from the
aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
402632 Flt Sgt E.L.Anderson, Captain (Pilot).
FO Newman, A.J., 2nd Pilot.
401347 Flt Sgt L.J.R.Govett, Observer.
400355 Flt Sgt A.A.C.Peters, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
400348 Flt Sgt T.H.Howlett, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
Sgt M.A.Ball, Wireless Operator/Air.
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
202
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
437562 Flight Sergeant PETSCHEL, Victor Edward
Source:
NAA : A9301, Barcode 554 2095
No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
PA 973
OF – C
97 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster PA 973 of No 97 (Strait Settlements) Sqn RAF, took off at 2335 hours from
RAF Station Coningsby, Lincoln, UK, on 20 March 1945 to bomb a target at Bohlen.
Weather clear. Visibility good. Flak over target moderate to intense. Aircraft did not
return to base and no evidence as to loss or whether aircraft shot down over target. No
messages received from aircraft.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
418813 Flt Lt Cottman, J D, Captain (Pilot)
432022 PO Murray, A G (Navigator)
428596 WO Arney, H J (Wireless Operator)
430103 Flt Sgt Coster, J S (Air Bomber)
437562 Flt Sgt Petschel, V E (Mid Upper Gunner)
430011 Flt Sgt Bull, L J (Rear Gunner)
Sgt Cross, J W (Flight Engineer)
With no trace of the aircraft or crew being found following post war investigations and
enquiries, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.
203
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
412679 Flight Sergeant PETTITT, Eric Noel
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/32/196
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hudson
AM 710
608 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Hudson AM 710 of 608 Sqn RAF took off from its base in Sicily at 0252 hours on 14
September 1943 to conduct a U-Boat hunt. After takeoff the aircraft made two circuits of
the drome. On the second circuit the ACP stated that he saw a ‘vapour trail’ from the
starboard engine. Thinking the aircraft would land immediately the ACP gave it a green.
The aircraft then left the circuit area on a course of 290 degrees at an approx height of
1000-1500 feet and was not seen again.
At approx 0310 hours a pilot of 235 Sqn stated that he saw flames on the surface of the
water in position 3802N 1222E, approx four miles from the coast of Sicily. No trace of
wreckage or the crew was found.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RCAF
411736 FO Bradley, B G S (Pilot)
412679 Flt Sgt Pettitt, E N (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
412721 Flt Sgt Sheldon, L T (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
FO Cherer (Navigator)
204
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405800 Sergeant PHAIR, Robert Leslie Dunlop
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/150/277
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
R 1163
11 Op Trg RAF
Summary:
Wellington R 1163 of No 11 Operational Training Unit RAF took off at 1100 hours on 20
November 1942 to carry out a cross country training exercise. The crew were detailed to
carry out line overlaps, simulation bombing and air firing over the sea.
A message was received from the aircraft 15 minutes after take off, but nothing further
was heard from R 1163 which failed to return to base.
An ASR search found no trace of the missing aircraft or crew.
The route was Base – Market Raisen, Lincoln, - Maplethorpe – position 53.20N 01.35E –
Maplethorpe - Market Raisen – Base.
Crew:
RAAF
RNZAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
405800 Sgt Phair, R L D Captain (Pilot)
PO Clarke, C W (Navigator)
Sgt Connot, T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
PO Booth, A (Air Bomber)
Sgt Flynn, R J (Air Gunner)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea off the Lincolnshire
coast.
205
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407107 Warrant Officer PHELPS, Kenneth Ross
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/32/27
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Dakota
MA 929
31 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Dakota MA 929 of 31 Sqn RAF, at Palam India, took off from Dinjun en route to Fort
Hertz, Burma, at 1330 hours on 31 January 1943. The aircraft failed to arrive at its
destination, and has not been located. It was last seen by a Hudson pilot at 1400 hours,
flying at 7000 feet near Kamku and heading for Fort Hertz.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
401101 FO Campbell, H J M (1st Pilot)
Sgt Nicholls, J O (2nd Pilot)
Sgt Sasoubon, J F (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
407107 WO Phelps, K R (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
AC1 Williamson, T G (Fitter 11E)
Flt Lt Baugh, M C (Passenger)
WO Phelps has no known grave and his name is commemorated on the Singapore
Memorial.
206
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
401394 Warrant Officer PHILLIPS, Douglas Frederick
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/32/365
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Spitfire
MK 935
131 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Spitfire MK 935 of No 131 (County of Kent) Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station
Harrowbeer, Yelverton, South Devon, at 1700 hours on 23 April 1944 on a defensive
sortie near the coast. After patrolling for some time over the Channel on vectors given by
Control, the section was ordered to investigate ‘something’ at 5 miles ahead and nought
feet. At this time the Section was flying at 1600 feet and above 10/10ths cloud.
WO Crawford (Section Leader) RAF ordered WO Phillips to remain above the clouds
while he went down in an attempt to get below the cloud. Being unsuccessful, he returned
above to find that WO Phillips had disappeared. Receiving no reply as to the position of
his No 2, and deeming an immediate air search impossible due to the cloud, WO
Crawford returned to base. An ASR search was conducted that evening, but searches by
aircraft that evening or the next morning was not possible. It was presumed that the
aircraft had crashed into the sea 30 miles south east of Bolt Head, UK.
Crew:
RAAF
401394 WO Phillips, D F (Pilot)
It was recorded in 1949 that WO Phillips had lost his life at sea.
207
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407873 Sergeant PHILLIPS, Harold Arthur
Source:
NAA ; A705, 163/150/213
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
R 5909
VN 50 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster R 5909 of 50 Sqn RAF took off From RAF Station, Swinderby, Lincolnshire,
at 2302 hours on 22 September 1942 to attack Weimar, Germany. Nothing was heard
from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
Flt Sgt Dickenson, G K Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Trottier, W H (Flight Engineer)
400981 Sgt Gotts, R A (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
403161 Sgt Carnley, J W (Air Bomber)
Flt Sgt Wade, H J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
401258 Sgt Watson, C F Air Gunner)
407873 Sgt Phillips, H A (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was established that the aircraft had
exploded in the air and crashed in the Baltic Sea off the Isle of Laaland, Denmark. The
bodies of Sgt Carnley and Sgt Watson (RAAF) were washed ashore on the Isle of
Laaland and are buried in the Svin Churchard Cemetery, Denmark. It was recorded in
1949 that the remaining crew members had lost their lives at sea.
208
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407590 Flight Sergeant PIERSON, Cedric Howie
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/151/65
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Baltimore
AG 843
223 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Baltimore AG 843 of 223 Sqn RAF when attacking a target in the Middle East on 1st
September 1942 was shot down by heavy ack-ack fire. After dropping its bomb load, the
aircraft was seen to receive a direct hit, the port engine was seen to fall away, and the
aircraft went straight down and crashed on the ground in flames. One member of the crew
baled out.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
WO Carruthers, PW (Pilot) - became POW.
407590 Flt Sgt Pierson, C H (Observer)
Sgt Hargreaves, E W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Cherrington, R A (Air Gunner)
It was recorded in 1948 that any graves of the three missing crew members could not be
located.
209
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
423255 Warrant Officer PINKERTON, Harrie Irwin
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/32/306
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Spitfire
LZ 915
253 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Spitfire LZ 915 of 253 Sqn RAF was one of a section of four squadron aircraft detailed to
attack enemy gun positions on the northern tip of Rab Island approx 40 miles SSE of
Fiume, Italy, on 17 March 1945 in position 14.50E, 44.45N.
The first three aircraft of the Section over the target experienced no flak, but as No 3
broke away he was called up by LZ 915 at No 4 position, and on looking back saw the
aircraft was at 150 feet and streaming white smoke. WO Pinkerton said he was going to
bale out, but was ordered to climb first. LZ 915 appeared unable to gain sufficient height,
and commenced a gentle glide towards the sea.
There was no further R/T conversation with LZ 915 which entered the sea slightly tail
down, travelled a few yards on the water and then stood on its nose before disappearing a
few seconds later. The other aircraft carried out a thorough search of the area, but WO
Pinkerton was not seen again. Nothing more was seen of the LZ 915 apart from a long
range fuel tank which came to the surface and then disappeared after ten minutes.
Crew:
RAAF
423255 WO Pinkerton, H I (Pilot)
It was later recorded that WO Pinkerton had lost his life at sea.
210
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
411604 Warrant Officer PIVOTT, Victor William Arthur
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/32/480
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Liberator
EV 867
159 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Liberator EV 867 of 159 Sqn RAF, India, was detailed to lay mines in the approaches to
Port Blair anchorage on Andaman Islands in the Bay of Bengal, on 28 August 1944. The
operation was timed to be carried out immediately after dark at 2000 hours. The aircraft
failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
FO Garden, Q Captain (Pilot)
FO Robinson, C (2nd Pilot)
Flt Sgt Lockwood, C E (Navigator Bombaimer)
411604 WO Pivott, V W A (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Hall, L (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Towers, K (Upper Gunner)
Sgt King, J (Spare Gunner)
Flt Sgt Maude, A H (Tail Gunner)
After post war searches and investigations, it was recorded that the missing crew had no
known grave.
211
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
8651 Flight Sergeant PLANTE, Robert Erskine
Source:
NAA : A9301 Barcode 4555874
No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
LM 175
1656 Conversion 71 Base RAF
Summary:
Lancaster LM 175 of No 1656 Conversion Unit RAF took off from RAF Station
Lindholme, Doncaster, Yorkshire, after 11pm on 5 February 1945 on a night cross
country non operational training flight. The route was from Base – Benson – Shrewsbury
– The Skerries – Strumble Head – Bury St Edmunds – Whittlesey and return to Base.
The aircraft would have been over the sea for approx half an hour.
Contact was maintained until 12.55am on the 6 February, when the plane was in the
vicinity of Shrewsbury, Shropshire. Nothing further was heard from LM 175 and the
aircraft did not return to Base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
8651 Flt Sgt R.E.Plante, Captain (Pilot)
428116 Flt Sgt L.C.Barrett, Navigator Bombaimer.
Sgt Skail
Sgt McKie.
Sgt Ralph.
Sgt Macfarlane.
Sgt Side.
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
212
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400122 Sergeant POTT, John Henry
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/152/141
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Bombay
L 5447
216 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Bombay L 5447 of 216 Sqn RAF, was detailed to drop parachute troops in the Tmimi-El
Gazala area in the Middle East on the night of 16/17th November 1941. The aircraft was
due back at base at 3.30am on the 17th .
The aircraft was heard over the Fuka satellite drome at that time but it did not land. A
message at 4.30am from the aircraft stated it had made a forced landing, was undamaged
and requested a bearing to fix its location. This was given and a dawn search by other
aircraft was made. A further message was then received from L 5447 saying it was ‘in the
air’. Then another message saying ‘stand by will call you later.’
A report from the Army confirmed that an aircraft was heard to land but it took off while
the Army were trying to locate it. At dawn a flight of Hurricanes searched in the Sidi
Barrani area to Tobruk, but failed to locate the missing aircraft, which failed to return to
base.
Crew:
RAF
Flt Sgt West, C E Captain (Pilot)
RAF
Sgt Martin, D S (Pilot)
RAF
Sgt Heard, R P (Observer)
RAAF
400122 Sgt Pott, J H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
RAF
LAC Gowing, R W (Flight Rigger)
RAF
AC1 Humphries, W (Flight Mechanic)
Army Passengers : 1 Officer plus 11 other ranks.
Later information established that the aircraft was shot down by a German night fighter
over El Gazala. It crashed 10 miles east of El Gazala approx 500 yards from the coast.
All of the crew and passengers became POW’s, with the exception of Sgt Pott (RAAF)
missing with no known grave, PO Martin (RAF) buried in the Acroma cemetery, and
AC1 Humphries (RAF) buried in the Benghazi Military cemetery.
213
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402822 Flight Sergeant POTTER, Frederick George
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/152/88
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hurricane
BP 499
213 Sqn RAF
Summary:
No 213 (Ceylon) Sqn RAF was brought to a state of readiness at 1800 hours on 1st
September 1942 at Edou and ordered to fly over Burg-el-Arab, when they sighted and
engaged enemy aircraft. BP 499 flown by Flt Sgt Potter took part in the engagement and
was last seen flying west. Nothing further was seen or heard from BP 499 which failed to
return to base.
The body of Flt Sgt Potter was later found by the 10th Hussars, identified and buried in
the El Alamein area in the Middle East. Post war searches could not locate the grave of
Flt Sgt Potter and it was recorded that he has no known grave.
Crew:
RAAF
402822 Flt Sgt Potter, F G (Pilot)
214
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
424680 Flight Sergeant POULSON, Leslie William
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/33/260
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Stirling
LK 143
138 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Stirling LK 143 of 138 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Tempsford at 0035 hours on
3 December 1944, together with other aircraft of the squadron, on a special mission to
drop supplies and containers over Denmark. The drop positions were 56.26N, 10.35E,
and 56.33N, 10.12E. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not
return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
FO Nichols, G F Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Golding, J A (Navigator Bombaimer)
Flt Sgt Harris, J G (Air Bomber)
424680 Flt Sgt Poulson, L W (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Filer, A W (Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Terrell, C E (Air Gunner)
Sgt Butler, A C (Flight Engineer)
Following post war searches and investigations which could find no trace of the missing
aircraft or crew, it was considered probable that the aircraft came down in the North Sea,
and that the crew had lost their lives at sea.
215
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404656 Sergeant POWELL, Lance Sydney
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/152/177
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
27899
45 Sqn RAF
Summary:
On 14March 1942, Blenheim 27899 from 45 Sqn RAF piloted by Sgt Powell was
detailed to carry out a low level offensive recce of the Lower Irrawaddy – Mingaladon –
Himawbi Road area, Burma. The aircraft took off from Magwe drome at approx 1530
hours but did not return to base.
The following day one aircraft went out on a search, but owing to low cloud and general
weather conditions being bad, they found no trace of the missing aircraft or crew.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
404656 Sgt Powell, L S (Pilot)
400526 Sgt Connor, L W H (Observer)
407496 PO Eden, J J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
In 1953 following searches by the British Far Eastern Graves Service, it was reported that
“the aircraft crashed in the Lower Irrawaddy area of southern Burma about half a mile
from the Mingaladon – Hmawbi road. The aircraft exploded on impact and all three
would have been killed instantaneously. Their bodies were thrown from the aircraft and
later cremated by the local villagers who witnessed the crash and gave the information to
the search party”. All crew recorded as missing with no known grave.
216
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
401148 Warrant Officer POWER, James Renton
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/33/96
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Beaufighter
LZ 142
39 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Beaufighter LZ 142 of 39 Sqn RAF took off from Grottaglie Landing Ground, South
Italy, at 1125 hours on 6 November 1943, on a transit flight to Sisi Amer, Tunisia. Bad
weather was encountered on the trip. The aircraft was last seen heading in a south
easterly direction from Grottaglie.The last report which was picked up by other aircraft of
the squadron, was at approx 1230 hours. This reported that the aircraft was crossing the
coast (presumably the Italian or Sicilian coast) and steering a course of 187deg.
This last report was apparently from LZ 142, although the last letter in the call sign was
that of another aircraft of the Squadron.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
401148 WO Power, J R (Pilot)
Sgt Paul, W D (Navigator Wireless)
Nothing was found from post war searches in Sicily and Southern Italy, and it was
recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
217
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402806 Sergeant POWER, John
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/152/197
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Kittyhawk
AK 917
250 Sqn Royal Air Force (SOUDAN
Summary:
Kittyhawk AK 917 of No 250 (Soudan) Sqn RAF, on 10 July 1942 was engaged on a
fighter sweep in the Middle East. AK 917 was acting as escort to Sqn Ldr Hayson, whose
aircraft was damaged in an attack on enemy Landing Ground 21 and was flying at low
speed. Enemy aircraft were encountered and it was believed that AK 917 was shot down
by an ME 109.
Crew:
RAAF
402806 Sgt Power, J (Pilot)
Post war searches and investigations did not find any trace of the missing aircraft or pilot
and in 1948 it was recorded that Sgt Power had no known grave.
218
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
413657 Sergeant POWER, Linsay Joseph
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/33/63
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Baltimore
AH 111
75 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Baltimore AH 111 of No 75 Operational Training Unit RAF took off at 1425 hours on
14th August 1943 on a navigational exercise over the Mediterranean. The aircraft did not
return to base from this exercise.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
SAAF
9301 Sgt Yeates, I M Captain (Pilot)
416864 Flt Sgt Lacey, R G (Observer)
413657 Sgt Power, L J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
2nd Lieut Caine, K P (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
It was later established from Sgt Yeates who survived the crash that “ when over the sea
25 minutes after take off, white smoke emitted from the port engine. At 1513 hours a
course was set for base, and shortly after the port engine burst into flames. Yeates warned
the crew that he would ditch the aircraft. After ditching both the Pilot and Navigator (Flt
Sgt Lacey) climbed on to the wing of the aircraft. Lt Caine was still in the turret trying to
open the emergency escape window. Sgt Power was lying on the floor of the aircraft.
The aircraft sank very suddenly and both Caine and Power went down with the aircraft.
Both Yeates and Lacey wearing Mae wests stayed together in the vicinity by floating and
swimming to stay warm. During the night the breeze freshened and Flt Sgt Lacey
swallowed a fair amount of water. At 0700 hours it was decided to swim for the shore
which was in sight. Lacey was weak and delirious and progress was slow. At 1630 hours
he stopped talking and he was apparently dead.
An hour later Sgt Yeates was picked up by the Polish destroyer Salzac.
The body of Flt Sgt Lacey was also recovered and artificial respiration applied but
without success. Flt Sgt Lacey was then buried at sea.
Although the pilot survived this accident, he later as FO Yeates was reported missing on
14 July 1944 when serving with 459 Sqn RAAF.
219
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403786 Sergeant POYNTING, Kenneth Hastings
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/33/48
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
R 1162
27 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington R 1162 of No 27 Operational Training Unit, RAF, took off shortly before
midnight on 25 June 11942, on a night operation against Bremen, Germany. Nothing was
heard from the aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base. Other crews reported
that the aircraft was possibly shot down over the target.
Crew:
RCAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
PO Lamb, T F Captain (Pilot)
405174 Sgt Cox, N H (Observer)
403940 Sgt Mathers. J B (Observer)
403786 Sgt Poynting, K H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
400442 Sgt Synnot, J M (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
220
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403485 Sergeant PRIESTLEY, Samuel Albert Gaston
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/152/201
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HX 489
15 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington HX 489 of No 15 Operational Training Unit RAF, was in transit from RAF
Portreath to the Middle East. It took off from North Front, Gibraltar en route to Malta at
1501 hours on 24 July 1942. Approx 4 hours after departure an SOS was received from
the aircraft, but nothing further was heard and HX 489 did not arrive at its destination.
Two Wellingtons and two Hudson aircraft which left Gibraltar for Malta on 25 July were
instructed to keep a look out for the missing HX 489, but no trace of the missing aircraft
or crew was seen.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
PO Champion Jones, P S Captain (Pilot)
403485 Sgt Priestley, S A G (2nd Pilot)
Sgt Kennedy, J R (Observer)
PO Grundy, E W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Dolan, R G H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Thomas, P E (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
221
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
425549 Flight Sergeant PRONGER, Harold William
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/33/144
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
EE 176
61 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster EE 176 of 61 Sqn RAF of RAF Station Conningsby, was detailed along with
other aircraft of the Squadron to attack Nurnberg, Germany on the night of 30/31st March
1944. EE 176 had successfully attacked the target and on nearing the English coast on the
return journey at about 5.30am on the 31st March, a violent electrical storm was
encountered. The pilot did his best to avoid the storm, but finally had to fly through the
storm of snow and sleet.
Th\e aircraft was struck by a flash of vivid blue lightning, and the pilot and other crew
members were temporarily blinded. As a result of this the aircraft rolled out of control
and with the pilot helpless for the time being, he ordered abandon aircraft by parachute.
When the aircraft had fallen to a height of 1000 feet over the sea, the pilot’s eyesight
commenced to come back, and he regained control.
On checking over the crew he found that Flt Sgt Pronger (RAAF) plus one other crew
member had baled out with chute and Mae West. The others were too stunned and
blinded to obey the order. A message was passed to ASR and at first light searches were
conducted but no trace of the two missing crew members were found.
The aircraft landed at 0600 hours at Little Snoring.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
415635 FO Forrest, J S Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Davies, A H (Flight Engineer)
Flt Sgt Wood, J R S (Navigator)
Sgt Newman, D C (Air Bomber)
Sgt Darben, L G (Wireless Operator Air) : Missing.
425549 Flt Sgt Pronger, H W (Air Gunner) : Missing
Sgt Macgie, J (Air Gunner)
It was recorded in 1949 that the two missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.
222
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
416998 Warrant Officer PUGH, John Halstead
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/33/174
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Typhoon
MN 456
175 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Typhoon MN 456 of 175 Sqn RAF flown by WO Pugh at 0845 hours on 5 June 1044
when returning from an operational sortie on a target west of Cherbourg Harbour, France,
reported that his engine had cut out and efforts to pick it up were of no avail. Losing
height he baled out at 3000 feet about 15 miles north of Cherbourg Harbour. The
parachute drifted and he struck the water south east of a patch of oil caused by the aircraft
crash.
The seven accompanying aircraft of the squadron orbited the spot. The sea was very
rough and the pilot and chute were lost sight of soon after he entered the water. The pilot
was still attached to the chute once he hit the water. No dinghy was seen. The squadron
remained over the spot for some time, several maydays and fixes were obtained, and the
last aircraft left the scene after 20 minutes. Another Squadron of Typhoons stayed over
the spot until 1330 hours when the search was called off with no trace of the missing pilot
being seen. There was no evidence that the aircraft had been hit by flak.
Crew:
RAAF
416998 WO Pugh, J H (Pilot)
223
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405878 Warrant Officer QUINE, Robert
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/34/5
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Spitfire
JK 511
152 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Spitfire JK 511 of 152 (Hyderabad) Sqn RAF, was Red 4 in a formation of 8 aircraft
detailed to cover Sicilian beaches on 12 July 1943. Enemy opposition was encountered
and the formation broke up into sections. JK 511 and it’s No 1 were last seen
immediately before combat ensued.
At the end of the patrol the formation Leader instructed Red section to rendezvous at
7000 feet over Gela, and an acknowledgement to this order was given by Red 3. There
was no acknowledgement by JK 511 and nothing was seen of the aircraft leaving the
target area.
Crew:
RAAF
405878 WO Quine, R (Pilot)
It was later recorded that it was assumed that WO Quine had lost his life at sea.
224
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
411259 Sergeant QUINLAN, Sydney George
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/34/1
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
W 4313
SR – G
101 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster W 4313 of 101 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Holme-on-Spalding Moor,
Yorkshire, at 1731 hours on 11 February 1943 to bomb Wilhelmshaven, Germany. The
aircraft was due back at base at 2254 hours. Nothing was heard from W 4313 after take
off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
405586 Flt Sgt Hiley, A E Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Spivey, E T (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Collins, R A (Navigator)
411372 Sgt Paterson, F H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Teviotdale, T (Bomb Aimer)
Sgt Bozier, R T (Mid Upper Gunner)
411259 Sgt Quinlan, S G (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was established that the aircraft
crashed and exploded on impact on the edge of a sandbank near the Isle of Juist at approx
8pm on 11 February 1943. Juist is one of the Friesian Island group of islands off the
German coast near the border with Holland. German documents had recorded that Sgt
Paterson had been buried at Dunes cemetery Juist, but this had been found to be
incorrect, and although it had been reported that six bodies of the crew had been
recovered from the sea and buried on the island, exhaustive searches and exhumations
had failed to establish the identity of any member of the crew.
It was subsequently recorded that the missing crew members had no known grave.
225
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407648 Sergeant RAMSEY, John Edward
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/155/105
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hudson
FH 427
48 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Hudson FH 427 of 48 Sqn RAF took off at 1401 hours on 10 August 1942 from
Lossiemouth, Scotland, to carry out a ‘North Bert’ patrol which was extended
northwards. The ETA of FH 427 back at Base was 2000 hours. No message was received
from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAAF
400838 PO Watts, G.R., Captain (Pilot).
Sgt G.R.Ash, Navigator.
407648 Sgt J.E.Ramsey, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
407817 Sgt R.K.Bannear, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
PO Watts (RAAF) body was recovered near Vigra Island on 18 August 1942 and was
buried in Stavne cemetery, Trondheim, Norway. The remaining missing crew members
were recorded as having no known grave.
226
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
416702 Warrant Officer RAYNER, Dudley Royce
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/35/228
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Beaufighter
EL 505
177 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Beaufighter EL 505 of 177 Sqn RAF, India, took off at 0750 hours on 23 February 1944
together with three other squadron aircraft to attack oil installations in Burma, as well as
attack Japanese road and rail communications in Central Burma.
EL 505 was last seen at 0930 hours during an attack by the whole formation on an oil
pipe line at Kanhla, Burma in position 19.35N 95.11E. The aircraft was seen to draw
away and is thought to have carried out an individual attack upon objectives which had
been noticed. At this time, two other aircraft were compelled to take violent evading
action against ack-ack fire from the ground. EL 505 was not seen again and it did not
return to base after the mission.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
416702 WO Rayner, D R (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Dinham, G A (Navigator Wireless)
After post war searches and enquiries, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had
no known grave.
227
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
417118 Flight Sergeant READ, Graham Sydney
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/35/160
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
JB 120
LQ – D
405 Sqn Royal Canadian Air Force
Summary:
Lancaster JB 120 of 405 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Gransden Lodge,
Bedfordshire at 1945 hours on the night of 27/28th September 1943, to attack Hannover,
Germany. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft take off and it did not return to
base.
Crew:
RCAF
RCAF
RCAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
FO St Louis, B A Captain (Pilot)
PO Long, S N (Navigator)
PO Trippe, T P (Bombaimer)
Flt Sgt Lowther, J C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
417118 Flt Sgt Read, G S (Air Gunner)
WO Goldspink, W E (Air Gunner)
PO Slade, S J (Flight Engineer)
Following post war searches and investigations, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
228
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407277 Sergeant READ, Lindley Russell
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/156/87
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
Z 9619
203 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim Z 9619 of 302 Sqn RAF took off at 0700 hours on 13 October 1941 to carry
out a routine reconnaissance patrol over the Mediterranean. Nothing further was heard
from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAF
PO Washington, G (Pilot)
407277 Sgt Read, L R (Observer)
Sgt Bremner, C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
229
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
427548 Flight Sergeant READER, Gordon Sydney
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/35/360
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
MZ 289
-J
102 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Halifax MZ 289 took off at 1755 hours on 17 September 1944 to carry out an operational
training flight over the North Sea and drop bombs at position 53.30N, 02.10 E about 55
miles from the east coast. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft which did not
return to base.
When the aircraft was overdue 30 minutes, Control (Pocklington) informed No 42 Base
at 1910 hours. Two Warwicks were sent out by RAF Chatham with flares but with no
result. Further aircraft searches the next day from Group 4 and Group 6 were
unsuccessful.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Capt Thompson, R C Captain (Pilot)
427548 Flt Sgt Reader, G S (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
Sgt White, R L (Air Bomber)
WO Locke, H L (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Gibson, G B (Air Gunner)
Sgt Greening, G V (Air Gunner)
Sgt Atkinson, R (Flight Engineer)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
230
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407877 Warrant Officer REED, Raymond George
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/35/97
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Baltimore
FA 331
55 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Baltimore FA 331 of 55 Sqn RAF, Middle East, was flying no five in the Leading Box of
a formation of 24 Baltimores attacking the Trapani Milo drome, Sicily at 1057 hours on
9th July 1943 from 9500 feet.
Heavy ack-ack was encountered over the target. FA 331 was seen to shoot vertically
upwards for at least 2000 feet, and slowly commence a spin which continued until the
aircraft was lost sight of by the lead formation. One of the following aircraft thought a
parachute opened from the aircraft but this was unconfirmed. The aircraft was not seen to
hit the ground.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
Flt Sgt Baines, A W (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Jefferson, T (Navigator Bombaimer)
407877 WO Reed, R G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Whitfield, C (Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Jefferson (RAF) who became a POW, in a later statement said that “he believed
WO Reed had been killed. He did not bale out but crashed with the aircraft. I was
informed by the German and Italian authorities that Reed was dead and had been buried
near the crashed aircraft.”
Following post war enquiries and investigations re. the place of burial, it was recorded
that WO Reed and the other two missing crew members, had no known grave.
231
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405084 Sergeant REES, Alun Griffiths
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/156/211
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Sunderland
E 6029
422 Sqn Royal Canadian Air Force
Summary:
Sunderland E 6029 of No 422 (Flying Yachtsman) RCAF, was engaged in a transit flight
on 19 December 1942, and on landing at Oban, Firth of Lorne, Scotland, in moderately
rough seas, the aircraft struck a wave considerably larger than the average, and broke in
two. Rescue launches were immediately on the scene and 15 survivors were rescued, but
there was no trace of Sgt Rees (RAAF) and two other members. Two further bodies were
later recovered.
Crew:
RAF
Flt Lt Reed, J T
RCAF
WO Burt-Gorrans, H F (1st Pilot)
RCAF
FO Potter, J E (Observer)
RCAF
PO Goggin, H A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
RCAF
Sgt Channey, C E (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
RCAF
Sgt Currie, B B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
RAF
Sgt Tait, J H R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
RAF
Sgt Webster, R J (Flight Engineer)
RAF
Sgt Luke, J (Flight Engineer)
RCAF
LAC Allen, W A (Rigger)
Plus 10 Passengers including 405084 Sgt Rees A G (RAAF)
It was later recorded that Sgt Rees (RAAF) had lost his life at sea.
232
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
409448 Flight Sergeant REGAN, George Frederick
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/35/99
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
N 6183
11 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim N 6183 of 11 Sqn RAF, India, was on of 6 aircraft which took off on 9 July
1943 to carry out an operational raid on the Taungup Road between Yegauk and
Shaukpin, Burma. The aircraft was last seen at a height of 500 feet with smoke pouring
out of the port engine, which then burst into flames. It crashed into a hillside about 10
miles north west of Yegauk.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
409448 Flt Sgt Regan, G F (Pilot)
Sgt Smith, M K (Navigator)
Sgt Rowan, G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded that the missing crew
had no known grave.
233
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400261 Sergeant REID, John Ruskin
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/156/148
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
84 Sqn RAF
Summary:
On 1 March 1942, RAAF Flt Sgt Reid an Air Gunner of 84 Sqn RAF was in a Mr
Jackson’s house at Soebang. He left in a car accompanied by an RAF Sgt and a
Dutchman with the intention of returning to Kaladjate. The Japanese arrived a few
minutes later and some firing was heard. The above group did not arrive at their
destination of Kaladjate.
A Sgt Sayer, G W who was subsequently killed stated that Reid drove from Mr Jackson’s
house to the nearest garage for fuel. Japanese armoured cars approached the garage and
Reid was seen to fall to the ground wounded. It was not at the time whether Sgt Sayer
was there at the time or his story was repeating hearsay.
Sgt Reid was a regular member of Sgt Geappen’s crew. Sgt Geappen and crew were
killed in the crash of a Blenheim aircraft on 16 February 1942 which had left Palembang
to proceed to Bandoeng, Java. It encountered bad weather and was forced to return to
Palembang, and crashed into the hillside at Lahat. At the time it was thought that Flt Sgt
Reid was in this aircraft but it was later established that Flt Sgt Reid had travelled in
another plane from Palembang which had been forced to return to Palembang. Reid was
later killed on 1 March 1942 by advancing Japanese troops. (A705, 163/116/31 refers).
234
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404045 Sergeant RHODES, Leslie Colin
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/156/89
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
V 6228
55 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim V 6228 of 55 Sqn RAF was detailed on 20th October 1941 to carry76 out a high
level formation bombing attack on Gambut drome. The formation was led by 2nd Lt
Haarhoff and Sgt Askew in ‘V’ formation and took off at 0525 GMT. A formation of five
aircraft from 113 Sqn also participated in the attack.
The run up to the target was from 40 miles out to sea, height 15000 feet, and the bombs
were dropped at 0714GMT. S/Ldr Blackmore turned to the right and headed out to sea in
a gradual dive. The formation was then attacked from astern by four ME109’s. V 6228
was hit in the port engine by cannon shell and machine gun bullets just forward of the
gun turret. The aircraft lost speed and height and as he went down he waved on Haarhoff
and Askew. V 6228 was seen to land on water approx 40 miles north of Gambut with two
ME 109’s circling overhead at 2/300 feet. Nothing further was seen of the aircraft or
crew.
Crew:
RAF
RNZAF
RAAF
Sqn Ldr Blackmore, H G P (Pilot)
Sgt Cole, W D (Observer)
404045 Sgt Rhodes, L C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
235
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404598 Sergeant PARSONS, Sidney John Rex
Source:
NAA : BAQ705,
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
M 9682
27 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington M 9682 of No 27 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off from Valley
Anglesey, Wales, at night on 25 February 1942, on a cross country training flight. The
aircraft was last heard from in the vicinity of Squires Gate, Wales, at 1056 pm when an
SOS message was received over the Irish Sea between Valley and Liverpool. The aircraft
did not return to base, and subsequent air/sea rescue searches found no trace of the
missing aircraft or crew.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RNZAF
406351 Sgt Dyson, D H (Pilot)
406335 Sgt Veal, C G (2nd Pilot)
402302 Sgt Hargrave, A P R (Observer)
404598 Sgt Parsons, S J R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
407946 Sgt Madge, R C (Air Gunner)
Sgt Hawkins, R G (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
236
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
433648 Flight Sergeant RHODES, Robert Craven
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/35/490
Lancaster
Aircraft Type:
RF
145
Serial number:
CF – Z
Radio call sign:
625 Sqn RAF
Unit:
Summary:
Lancaster RF 145 of 625 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Kelstern, near Louth,
Lincolnshire on 16 March 1945 to attack the target Nurnberg, Germany. Nothing further
was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
424322 FO Rolls, P M, Captain (Pilot)
RAF
Sgt Jones, D B (Pilot/Engineer)
RAAF
436573 Flt Sgt Ryan, T M (Air Bomber)
RAAF
433648 Flt Sgt Rhodes, R C (Navigator)
RAAF
435192 Flt Sgt Teague, T W (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
RAAF
437369 Flt Sgt Tarrant, C J (Mid Upper Gunner)
RAF
Sgt Clark, G A (Rear Gunner)
In a later statement by Flt Sgt Ryan (RAAF) who became a POW he reported “I assume
the other 6 members of the crew were in the aircraft when I baled out. I have no definite
information regarding their probable fate. I saw no parachutes nor did I receive any
information regarding these men after my descent. Approx 5 minutes before reaching the
target, the aircraft was hit by a night fighter. The aircraft burst into flames somewhere aft
of my compartment. The Captain ordered bale out and I baled out at 16,000 feet. The
aircraft appeared under control but evidently badly in flames. Assuming that the aircraft
crashed soon after my leaving, that would be 5 minutes before Nurnberg. We were on a
north east heading and carrying a full bomb load when hit, and there may have been a
mid-air explosion.”
Following post war enquiries and investigations, the remains of Sgt Jones (RAF) were
identified as that which fell at Burglein on the night of 16 March 45, and were interred at
Durnbach War Cemetery, Germany. Burglein is approx 14 miles south west of Nurnbach.
No trace of the aircraft or of other members of the crew was found, and in 1949 it was
recorded that the missing members have no known grave Their names are commemorated
on the Memorial o the Missing, Runnymede, UK.
237
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403375 Flight Sergeant RICH, Alwyn Charles
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/157/205
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
BJ 776
12 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington BJ 776 of 12 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Wickenby, at 7.30pm on
26 September 1942 to carry out a sea mining mission in German territorial waters in the
Kiel Bay area. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to
base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
402989 FO Ward, J S, Captain (Pilot)
401864 Sgt Thompson, H C (Navigator)
411320 Sgt Harden, J B (Air Bomber)
403375 Sgt Rich, A C (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
406812 Sgt Mitchell, P R (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
238
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
416007 Sergeant RICHARDS, Bruce William
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/87/234 Commonwealth War Graves records
W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses Operational Training Units, 1940-1947,
Page 136, Volume 7..
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
P 9285
27 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington P 9285 of No 27 Operational Training RAF, took off from RAF Lichfield,
Staffordshire, UK, at 1043 hours on 16 July 1942 to carry out a cross country training
exercise. The route was RAF Lichfield - Bassingbourne - Church Fenton Flamborough Head - 54deg north 02deg east - 53deg north 02 deg east - Finningley Base. There was nil air firing involved, but 15 x 11.5 lb smoke bombs were carried. The
weather was fair with 5 tenths cloud at 2000 feet and visibility moderate. The aircraft was
due back at 1630 hours.
At 1230 hours the RDF plot on P 9285 faded out, and the aircraft did not return to base
from the exercise. There were four other aircraft on the same exercise and they struck no
adverse weather on the trip.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
416007 Sgt B.H.Richards, Pilot.
Sgt D.S.Large, Observer.
Sgt W.B.Barr, Observer/Bombaimer.
Sgt R.Brooke, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
407886 Sgt J.A.Alcorn, Air Gunner.
It was later recorded that the missing crew had no known grave. Their names are
commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK.
239
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
8934 Flight Sergeant RICHARDS, Jack Kenneth
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/35/272
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Liberator
BZ 873
53 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Liberator BZ 873 of 53 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station St.Eval, near Wadebridge,
Cornwall, on 21 May 1944 to carry out an anti-submarine patrol off the French coast near
Bordeaux. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF 8934 Flt Sgt Richards, J K (2nd Pilot)
RAAF 423171 Flt Sgt Moore, W W (2nd Navigator)
RAAF 420313 FO Watkins, H W (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
RAAF 425024 Flt Sgt Kerr, J T (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
RAAF 425311 Flt Sgt Johnson, A F (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
No details of the other 5 crew members (RAF members) are available.
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was established that the remains of Flt
Sgt Harrison (an RAF member of the crew) was washed ashore on the north coast of
Spain, and interred at the British Cemetery, Bilbao, Spain. Also that fisherman had found
the body of another crew member WO Atherton (RAF) floating in the sea, but it had not
been bought ashore by the fishermen.
It was later recorded that the nine missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.
240
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
413254 Flight Sergeant RICHARDS, Robert Edward Duncan
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/35/190
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
W 4337
UL – R2
576 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster W 4337 of 576 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Elsham Wolds, Barnetby,
Lincolnshire, on 3 December 1943 to bomb Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft
after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
420334 Flt Sgt Booth, J M Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Kaye, G H (Flight Engineer)
418387 Flt Sgt Godfrey, L W L, (Observer)
413254 Flt Sgt Richards, R E D (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
420836 Flt Sgt Jennings, M N (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
417959 Sgt Jones, N W (Air Gunner)
418584 Flt Sgt Taskis, D R G (Air Gunner)
Post war efforts to establish the circumstances of the crash and its location were
unsuccessful. The bodies of Flt Sgt Booth, Flt Sgt Jennings, Sgt Jones and Flt Sgt
Taskis (RAAF) are interred in the Rheinberg War cemetery, Germany, whilst the remains
of both Flt Sgt Godfrey and Sgt Richards (RAAF) could not be found and they are
recorded as having no known grave.
241
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
413428 Warrant Officer RICHARDS, Ronald
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/35/384
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
NC 627
Loran Trg Unit RAF
Summary:
Wellington NC 627 of Loran Training Unit RAF Mullaghmore, near Ballymoney,
County Antrim, North Ireland, took off at 0021 hours on 13 November 1944 on a Loran
training exercise. The route was Mullaghmore – 53.30N 06.48W – 54.33N 12.25W and
return by reciprocal track. After take off nothing further was heard from the aircraft.
An aircraft day & night search was carried out with nil result. It was assumed aircraft and
crew were lost at sea.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
Students
RAF
RCAF
RCAF
Flt Lt Dravers, P C (Pilot)
FO Goodacre, J C (Navigator)
30523 FO Delaney, M R (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
413428 WO Richards, R (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
Flt Lt O’Connor C P
FO Deakin, A K
PO Ross, E B
242
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
415550 Warrant Officer RICHARDS, Stephen Eddy
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/157/171
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Mitchell
AD 380
98 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Mitchell AD 380 of 98 Sqn RAF took off from RAF airfield, Marsbrook, at 0845 hours
on 6 February 1945 to bomb a railway bridge at Deventer, Holland. At5 va height of
between 10500 to 14000 feet, the box in which AD 380 was flying reached the target and
AD 380 was making a target run but the bombs doors would not open.
Flames were seen in the rear part of the fuselage directly after the order to release bombs
was given by the box leader and almost immediately AD 380 went into a vertical dive,
minus its tail. Nothing more was seen of AD 380 which disappeared into cloud and was
not seen to strike the ground.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
415550 WO Richards, S E (Pilot)
Sgt Quick, J A (Navigator Bombaimer)
Sgt Locke, H C Air Gunner flying as Wireless Operator)
Sgt Ward, J (Air Gunner)
It was established post war that the aircraft had been hit by ack-ack fire near the target,
exploded and caught fire. The remains of Sgts Quick and Locke (RAF) were identified
and interred, with the other two crew members listed as missing. A memorial plaque was
erected in the General cemetery at Deventer, Holland to perpetuate the memory of the
crew members.
243
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402006 Flight Sergeant RICHARDS, Theodore George
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/144/173 Digitised Commonwealth War Graves
records
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Baltimore
AG 852
ATTD 223 SQN RAF
Summary:
Baltimore AG 852 of 223 Sqn RAF Middle East, was one of a formation of aircraft in an
operation to bomb stores at Chazal Station on 2 November 1942. Over the target there
was heavy ack-ack fire, and AG 852 was hit, blew up and seen to leave the formation
going down in flames. One of the crew was seen to bale out, but it was impossible to state
who it was. There was no further news of the aircraft or crew which did not return to
base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
401133 Flt Sgt A C Maclure, (Pilot)
406400 Flt Sgt C S Middleton, (Observer)
407198 Flt Sgt C M Chenoweth, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
402006 Sgt T G Richards, (Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Middleton is buried in the El Alamein War Cemetery, Egypt. The search for the
graves of the remaining missing crew members was abandoned in 1946. They have no
known grave and their names are commemorated on the Alamein Memorial, which is
situated at the entrance to the El Alamein War Cemetery, Egypt.
.
244
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402252 Sergeant RICHARDSON, Frank
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/157/93
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
W 5362
EP – J
104 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington W 5362 of 104 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Driffield at 2034 hours on 8th
September 1941 to bomb Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it
did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
402252 Sgt Richardson, F Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Barrett, F GT
Sgt Anderson, W H
Sgt Robbens, B W
Flt Sgt Craig, A D F
Sgt Mountier, R J
Following post war investigations and enquiries it was recorded in 1950 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
245
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
410382 Sergeant RICHARDSON, Harold James
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/35/110
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
BJ 963
27 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington BJ 963 of No 27 Operational Training Unit, RAF, took off from RAF
Lichfield, Staffordshire, on a non operational cross country flight on 22 July 1943. The
route was from Base – Shrewsbury – Van Bardsley Island – Studwals – Baggors Park –
Base. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
It was presumed that the aircraft must have crashed at sea.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
Flt Sgt Clayton.
Flt Sgt Mack.
410382 Sgt H.J.Richardson, Observer.
410605 Flt Sgt N.R.Linton, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
408418 Sgt A.J.H.Bock, Air Gunner.
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
246
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
427942 Flight Sergeant RICHARDSON, Keith
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/35/300
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Liberator
FL 931
86 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Liberator FL 931 of 86 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Tain, Ross-shire, Scotland,
at 0255 hours on 26 June 1944 to carry out an anti-submarine patrol in the North Sea.
Nothing further was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
411799 Fl Lt Moffitt, F D, Captain (Pilot)
434069 FO Whitby, S W (2nd Pilot)
FO Pearson, H (1st Navigator)
427942 Sgt Richardson, K I (2nd Navigator)
424197 Sgt Mason, L O H (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
419678 Sgt Williams, J G (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt O’Bierne (Wireless Operator/Air)
Sgt Leighton, G G (Wireless Operator Mechanic/Air Gunner)
Sgt Moffitt, I T (Flight Engineer)
With no trace of the missing aircraft or crew being found from post war investigations
and enquiries, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew were lost at sea.
247
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
411187 Flight Sergeant RIDING, Edward Havelock
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/157/201
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
Z 1728
12 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington Z 1728 of 12 Sqn RAF took off at 0035 Hours on 14 September 1942 from
RAF Station Binbrook, to attack Bremen, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft
after take off, and it did not return to base.
The weather was fine over the target, with moderate flak.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
Sgt Harrison, A E Captain (Pilot)
PO Thomas, E F (Navigator)
Sgt Lunn, B P (Air Bomber)
411187 Flt Sgt Riding, E H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
403512 Flt Sgt Higson, W F (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
248
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
421626 Sergeant RITCHIE, Elton Roy
Source:
NAA : 166/35/81
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hampden
32 Op Training RCAF
Summary:
A Hampden aircraft of No 32 Operational Training Unit, RCAF, took off at 5.15am on
14th June 1943 to carry out a navigational, bombing and firing exercise over the Pacific
Ocean. The last message received from the aircraft was at 6am. The aircraft failed to
return from the exercise. Five other aircraft took off on the same exercise at approx the
same time, but all had returned to base about 6.45am due to bad weather.
The weather deteriorated further during the 14 June, and searches by aircraft could not
take place until the 15 June. Naval vessels sighted some wreckage, and on 16 June
wrecked parts of a Hampden aircraft were identified as belonging to the missing aircraft
but no survivors were found.
Crew:
RAAF
420751 Sgt Lynch, A S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
RAAF
421626 Sgt Ritchie, E R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
No other crew details are recorded on the above file.
249
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403390 Sergeant RITCHIE, Malcolm Jack
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/157/142
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Spitfire
P 7363
66 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Spitfire P 7363 of 66 Sqn RAF on 20 March 1942 was detailed to carry out air to sea
firing against sea markers, being under instruction not to continue to dive below 700 feet.
The weather at the time was excellent and the sea calm. Eye witnesses reported that each
time the aircraft pulled out of a dive it appeared to do so quite sharply.
The last time the aircraft pulled out of the dive, it rose from about 100 feet before it
crashed into the sea. This seemed to indicate a high speed stall at a low altitude with the
pilot being unable to recover in time. The location was one mile north west off Gull
Rock, Portreath
Crew:
RAAF
403390 Sgt Ritchie, M J (Pilot)
250
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
423896 Flight Sergeant ROBIN, Philip Rollo Aloysius
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/36/290
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
MX 592
LK – G
578 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Halifax MX 592 of 578 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Burn, near Selby,
Yorkshire, at 2338 hours on 12 June 1944, to attack a target at Amiens, France. Nothing
was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
FO Wilden, R F Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Currums, W N (Flight Engineer)
423896 Flt Sgt Robin, P R A (Navigator)
Sgt Askwith, P (Air Bomber)
Sgt Hocking, J C (Wireless Operator)
429375 Flt Sgt Griffith, J B DeB (Mid Upper Gunner)
29132 Flt Sgt Mitchell, D S (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was established that the aircraft was
hit by flak and crashed at Mailly Raineval (Somme), 5 miles south west of Moreuil. FO
Wilden and one unidentified crew member are buried in the Parish cemetery at Mailly
Raineval, but no trace of the remaining 5 crew members could be found.
251
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
436254 Flight Sergeant ROBINS, Alfred Arthur
Source:
NAA : A9301 Barcode 5545020
No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
MP 792
78 Operational Trg RAF
Summary:
Wellington MP 792 of No 78 OTU RAF took off from RAF Station Ein Shemer, Middle
East Force, at approx 6pm on 8 January 1945 to carry out a non operational training
exercise over the sea, and the aircraft failed to return to base.
Normal radio contact was kept with the aircraft for a time but after 6.35pm no further
messages were received, and base could not regain contact. A little later information was
received that an aircraft had crashed in the sea. A launch was despatched to carry out a
search, and although some aircraft wreckage similar to the missing aircraft type was
located, it could not be established if it came from the missing aircraft. Also no trace of
the crew could be found.
It was believed that the aircraft came down in the sea approx 3 miles west of Jaffa,
Palestine, and that the crew were lost at sea.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
10963 FO Williams, A.H., Pilot.
428417 FO Fong, G., 2nd Pilot.
433709 Flt Sgt C.E.H. Barnfield, Navigator Bombaimer.
435057 Flt Sgt A.B.Tunnock, Wireless Operator/Air.
436254 Flt Sgt A.A.Robins, Wireless Operator/Air.
430970 Flt Sgt N.G.Sandlant, Wireless Operator/Air.
252
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
429018 Flight Sergeant ROBINSON, Arthur Willmott
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/36/430
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Liberator
EV 942
354 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Liberator EV 942 of 354 Sqn RAF took off on 30 December 1944 on an anti U Boat
patrol in the Indian area. It was last plotted off the south east coast of Ceylon in position
6.59N, 82.12E, when the aircraft was flying over the sea. The aircraft failed to return to
base from the mission.
Crew:
RCAF
RAAF
RCAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
FO Manyluk, W A Captain (Pilot)
417587 Flt Sgt McCulloch, R W (Pilot)
PO Maika, P J (Navigator Bombaimer)
Sgt Welburn, J K (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
429018 Flt Sgt Robinson, A W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
434942 Flt Sgt Gordon, M J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
15279 Flt Sgt Cain, L (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Sutcliffe, J (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and searches it was recorded in 1946 that the missing crew
had lost their lives at sea.
253
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405771 Sergeant RODGERS, Leslie Lindsay
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/36/14
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
BK 173
AL – H
429 Sqn Royal Canadian Air Force
Summary:
Wellington BK 173 of 419 (Bison) Sqn RAF took from RAF East Moor at 1717 hours
ton 26th January 1943 to raid L’Orient, France. The aircraft carried 2 x 1000 lb GP and 3
x 500 lb bombs. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to
base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
405771 Sgt Rodgers, L L Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Davies, C (Navigator)
Sgt Lewis, D (Bombaimer)
Sgt Allen, A F (Wireless Operator)
Sgt Amos, G (Air Gunner)
In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
254
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400209 Sergeant ROGERS, Colin Lindsay
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/158/175
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hurricane
V 7106
33 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Hurricane V 7106 of 33 Sqn RAF was detailed on 14 September 1941 along with other
squadron aircraft to escort bombers on a raid in enemy territory. On the return journey
enemy aircraft were encountered over a forward area, and in the ensuing engagement V
7106 was shot down. Sgt Rogers body was found five days later by troops of the 7th
Armoured Division, some 50 miles away from the scene of the engagement.
The Army reported that on September 19th during a halt about 12 noon, “I went over to a
circular cairn about 75 yards away. The cairn had an RAF helmet and goggles sticking up
on one side. Inside the cairn was the body of an aircrew member. The body was identified
and an identity disc and pocket knife removed. There was a revolver in one hand with
three empty chambers. The RAF member had been wounded and apparently only been
dead for some hours”.
Crew:
RAAF
400209 Sgt Rogers, C L (Pilot)
Sgt Rogers grave was considered lost in a mined area. He has no known grave and his
name is commemorated on the El Alamein Memorial, Egypt.
255
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404042 Flight Sergeant ROGERS, Herbert
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/158/269
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Maryland
AH 298
203 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Maryland AH 298 of 203 Sqn RAF took off at 0700 hours on 15 April 1942, to shadow
an enemy convoy in the Mediterranean. During this patrol an enemy convoy was sighted
near Malta and shadowed until 1245 hours, when a message was received from the
aircraft giving an ETA Malta of 1315 hours.
Nothing further was heard from the aircraft which did not return to base. It is possible
that it was shot down into the sea as a large number of enemy aircraft were operating in
the area at the time.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
406006 FO Halbert, J B (Pilot)
402069 FO Somerville, E N (Observer)
404042 Flt Sgt Rogers, H (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Gordon, N (Air Gunner)
It was concluded that the aircraft and crew were lost at sea.
256
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400156 Leading Aircraftman ROSS, Claude Murray
Source:
NAA : A705, 53/1/880
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Harvard
2704
1 Service Flg Trg School RCAF
Summary:
Harvard 2704 of No. 1 Service Flying Training School, RCAF, crashed on a detached ice
floe on 4 February 1941, 1.5 to 2 miles off-shore in Nottawasaga Bay, Ontario. Small
parts of the aircraft apparently the wings, were spread over a large area, but the engine
and main body of the aircraft appeared to have gone through the ice to the bottom of the
lake.
The above was observed from the air and it was impossible to reach the spot on the
surface. Due to bad weather and a heavy southerly gale the ice flow completely
disappeared on 8 February 1941, and salvage operations were suspended until the spring.
In mid May 1941 salvage operations located the wreckage approx 3 miles north west
from the Nottawasaga River in the Georgian Bay in approx 60 feet of water. By mid June
a major portion of the wreck was brought to the surface. Divers searched the lake bottom
but no bodies were found in the water or in the wreck. The search was subsequently
abandoned.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
400156 LAC C.M.Ross. Trainee Pilot
407110 LAC C.T.Arthur, Trainee Pilot.
257
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407019 Sergeant ROSS, Maxwell Robert
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/158/142
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
R 1794
DX 57 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington R 1794 of 57 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Fetwell, at 2300 hours on
26th June 1941 to attack Bremen, Germany. The last W/T message was received at 0130
hours on the 27 June, but nothing further was received and the aircraft failed to return to
base.
Crew:
RAAF
RCAF
RAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
407019 Sgt Ross, M R Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Toulson, F
Sgt Asher, C
Sgt Tett G
Sgt Shepherd, B
Sgt O’Donnell, J
Following post war enquiries and investigations no trace was found of the missing
aircraft or crew.
258
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404642 Flight Sergeant ROSS, William Charles Henry
Source:
NAA : A9301 Barcode 5538537
No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
W 4116
EA 49 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster W 4116 of 49 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Scampton, at 1745pm on
the night of 12/13th October 1942, detailed to attack a target at Wismar, Germany.
Nothing further was heard from the aircraft or of the crew after take off.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
400890 PO Laidlaw, G L (Observer)
404642 Flt Sgt Ross, W H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
404779 Sgt Cullen, J K (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
FO Elliott, R F
Sgt Hodge, G
Sgt Hendrie, A R
FO Horne, J W H
In a 1949 report by the Missing Research and Enquiry Unit it stated that searches failed
to reveal any trace of the aircraft or crew. The crew were recorded as missing with no
known grave.
259
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
421128 Flight Sergeant ROWAN, Douglas John
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/36/130 Micro Film NO 463 OAFH,
Commonwealth war Graves records. W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses of
the Second World War Page 346, Volume 1943.
AWM 54 779/3/129 Part 18..
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
LW 292
NP – V
ATTD 158 SQN RAF
Summary:
Halifax LW292 of 158 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Lissett at 1807 hours on the night of
3/4th October 1943, detailed to bomb Kassel, Germany. Nothing was heard from the
aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
414426 Flt Sgt Price, J Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Perides, C C (Navigator)
Sgt Whittaker, R D (Air Bomber)
Sgt Hands, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Stevenson, R (Flight Engineer)
415646 WO Grey, R C (Mid Upper Gunner)
421128 Flt Sgt Rowan, D J (Rear Gunner)
Following post war investigations it was established that the aircraft crashed at
Altengamme, 5 miles south east of Hamburg, and that Sgt Grey (RAAF) Sgt Whittaker
and Sgt Hands (RAF) were POW’s. Flt Sgt Price (RAAF) is buried at Bergdorf Cemetery
at Hamburg and from German sources it was ascertained that two RAF members of the
crew were buried. No information was obtained re. Flt Sgt Rowan and he is listed as
having no known grave. His name is commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing,
Runnymede, Surrey, UK.
In his POW report the then WO Grey stated “ Flak caused great damage Captain gave
order jump, jump heard. Acknowledged. I baled out first at 12,000 feet Aircraft partly in
control but three motors were useless with one on fire. Skipper hit in chest by flak and
chute fouled the escape hatch causing his death. Aircraft could only turn one way.” .
260
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
408739 Flight Sergeant RUBENS, Norbert Albert
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/159/108
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hudson
VI 711
608 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Hudson VI 711 of No 608 (North Riding) Sqn RAF, British North African Force, was
reported missing from an operational sortie on 12 July 1943. The aircraft failed to return
to base at 0130 hours on 13 July 1943. No further news was received of aircraft or crew,
which was assumed lost at sea.
Crew:
RAAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
411303 FO Ellis, D W, Captain (Pilot)
FO Belecky (Navigator)
411618 Flt Sgt Van Waning, K (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
408739 Flt Sgt Rubens, N A (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
LAC Vaneta, H (Meteorologist)
261
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
425759 Flight Sergeant RUSSELL, John Gordon
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/36/208
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
MP 743
38 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington MP 743 of 38 Sqn RAF, Middle East, took off in the evening of 1 March
1944 to carry out a night shipping strike in the Aegean Sea. An alternative target was that
of bombing Melos. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return
to base.
Crew:
RCAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
PO Boyd, W D C Captain (Pilot)
FO Easson, A G C (2nd Pilot)
425759 Flt Sgt Russell, J G (Navigator Bombaimer)
Sgt Driscoll, D (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Reeve, N W (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Brosnan, P (Wireless Operator Air)
Following post war searches and investigations it was later recorded hat the missing crew
had no known grave.
262
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
410789 Warrant Officer RUSSELL, Reginald Worland
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/36/306
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
MF 375
524 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington MF 375 of 524 Sqn RAF took off from RAFR Station Docking, Norfolk, at
0018 hours on 9 July 1944 to carry out an armed recce off the Dutch coast, from 10 miles
south of Imuiden flying northwards. The aircraft failed to return to base.
At 0159 hours a sighting report was received giving the position of four unknown vessels
at 53.24N, 04.55E. This was the last signal received, but at 0200 hours intense flak was
seen in this position from two aircraft of 415 Sqn who were on the same patrol. Flak from
the land and from ships was seen.
Crew:
RAF
RCAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
FO Reen, D G Captain (Pilot)
FO Belanger, (2nd Pilot)
PO Abbott, G E (Navigator Bombaimer)
410789 WO Russell, R W (Navigator Bombaimer)
PO Cochran, J A (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Howitt, W I (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Brock, F H (Wireless Operator Air)
It was later established that the body of Sgt Howiit (RAF) had been washed ashore on
Schiermonnikoog Island and interred locally. It was recorded in 1949 that the remaining
missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.
263
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400940 Flight Sergeant RUSSELL, Thomas Geoffrey Notcutt
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/159/86
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Marauder
FK 155
14 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Marauder FK 155 of 14 Sqn RAF, British North African Forces, took off from Bone at
0510 hours on 9 May 1943, to carry out a shipping reconnaissance. Repeated requests for
weather reports were not answered by FK 155, and the aircraft did not return to base after
the mission.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
400940 Flt Sgt Russell, T G Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Fennell, P (2nd Pilot)
401007 WO Dyson, F V (Navigator)
401529 Flt Sgt Nicholas, W G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Armstrong, J W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Ayton, W H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it as recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
264
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404203 Sergeant RUTHERFORD, Douglas Robert
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/159/61
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hudson
AM 796
59 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Hudson AM796 of 59 Sqn RAF took off on a Reefer patrol over the North Sea from its
base at North Coates, Lincolnshire, UK, at 0855hrs on 2 March 1942. Since then nothing
further heard of either the aircraft or any member of the crew. Missing lost over the North
Sea.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
402510 Sgt Lauder, K J (Pilot)
404203 Sgt Rutherford, D R (Air Observer)
404638 FO Bain, D H (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
402999 Sgt Jones, W T (Wireless Operator)
265
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
425551 Flight Sergeant RYALLS, Cornelius Dominick
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/36/’295
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HZ 703
8 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HZ 703 of 8 Sqn RAF, British Forces Aden, took off at 10.30pm at night on
27 June 1944 on a convoy escort patrol. At 0205 hours on 28 June, SS Highland Prince
reported that a twin engine aircraft had crashed in the sea, caught fire and exploded. The
reported position was 12.20N, 44.03E. The ship and the Navy searched for two hours but
no trace of any survivors was found. It was established that no other aircraft apart from
HZ 703 was in the vicinity at the time.
Crew:
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
FO Ferguson, G W (Captain (Pilot)
FO Davis, H H G ((2nd Pilot)
Flt Lt Moeseley, E F (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
422296 Flt Sgt Reid, R A L (Wireless Operator Air) (ASVG)
418486 Flt Sgt Walker, G M (Wireless Operator Air) (ASVG)
425551 Flt Sgt Ryalls, C D (Wireless Operator Air) (ASVG)
It was later concluded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
266
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
416459 Flight Sergeant RYAN, Edward John
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/159/46
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
LM 164
WP – V
90 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster LM 164 of 90 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Tuddenham, Bury St
Edmunds, Suffolk, at 2153 hours on 7 August 1944 to bomb strong points in the
Normandy battle zone at Mare De Magne. LM 164 was due to return to base at 0103
hours on 8 August but it failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
FO Brooks, A G Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Tomlinson, H P (Navigator)
FO Riley, F G (Air Bomber)
416459 Flt Sgt Ryan, E J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Barber, J T (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Cairns, T D S (Rear Gunner)
Sgt Wiggin, J C (Flight Engineer)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
267
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
420601 Flight Sergeant RYAN, Edward Joseph
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/36/265
AWM 65 (4520)
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Marauder
FK 110
14 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Marauder FK 110 of 14 Sqn RAF, British North African Forces, was detailed to carry out
on 9 May 1944, a low level reconnaissance of enemy shipping in the vicinity of the
Ionian Island off the coast of Greece in the South Adriatic Sea. Nothing was heard from
the aircraft after take off and it failed to return from the mission. Subsequent ASR
searches failed to find the aircraft or any survivors.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
Flt Sgt Ross, J (Pilot)
Sgt Green, W N (Pilot)
420511 Flt Sgt Woods, A (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
420601 Flt Sgt Ryan, E J (Wireless Operator Air)
420694 Flt Sgt Mackrell, T (Wireless Operator Air)
Flt Sgt Andrews, H G (Wireless Operator Air)
All the crew have no known grave and their names are commemorated on the Malta
Memorial. The Memorial is situated in the area of Floriana and is easily identified by the
Golden Eagle which identified the column. It stands outside the main entrance at Valletta,
Malta.
268
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
413446 Warrant Officer RYAN, William Barry
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/36/141
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
LN 928
104 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington LN 928 of 104 Sqn RAF, Central Mediterranean Force, took off from Foggia
drome at 2307 hours on 16 April 1944 to attack a target at Leghorn Italy. The following
messages were received from the aircraft :
0130 hours : Landing at Borgo with engine trouble.
0206 hours Preparing to ditch.
0209 hours Now ditching. Position 42.20N, 0937E.
The position was in the sea near Corsica.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
421900 FO Gilleland, W C Captain (Pilot)
422484 Flt Sgt French, G C (Navigator Bombaimer)
Sgt Fox (Navigator)
418224 FO Denison, L A (Navigator Bombaimer)
Sgt Adams, S E (Wireless Operator Air)
413446 WO Ryan, W B (Air Gunner)
When the aircraft ditched, FO Gilleland (RAAF) the pilot, was forced out of the escape
hatch by the inrush of water. No other survivors were seen. He reached a dinghy and later
saw a light being shone upside of the dinghy. He was rescued when a Catalina was
sighted and attracted that same afternoon on 17 April 44.
It was later recorded that the 5 missing members had lost their lives at sea.
269
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
417420 Warrant Officer SANDERCOCK, William James
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/37/695
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Warwick
HG 209
279 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Warwick HG 209 of 279 Sqn RAF took off at 1330 hours on 11 January 1945 from a
Squadron detachment at RAF Station Braserburgh, to provide ASR cover for an anti
shipping strike off the Norwegian coast. Enemy fighters were encountered, and HG 209
failed to return to base. HG 209 was last seen to be flying over a ditched strike aircraft ,
and believed to be followed by an ME 109.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RCAF
RAF
Flt Lt Moreton, J H Captain (Pilot)
417420 WO Sandercock, W J (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
FO Galloway, G C (Wireless Operator Air)
WO Mansfield, G W
Flt Sgt Bryan, W (Air Gunner)
WO Bentley, F E
WO Goodall, A F
It was later recorded that the missing crew had been lost at sea.
270
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
430970 Flight Sergeant SANDLANT, Noel George
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/37/684
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
MP 792
78 Operational Trg RAF
Summary:
Wellington MP 792 of No 78 OTU RAF took off from RAF Station Ein Shemer, Middle
East Force, at approx 6pm on 8 January 1945 to carry out a non operational training
exercise over the sea, and the aircraft failed to return to base.
Normal radio contact was kept with the aircraft for a time but after 6.35pm no further
messages were received, and base could not regain contact. A little later information was
received that an aircraft had crashed in the sea. A launch was despatched to carry out a
search, and although some aircraft wreckage similar to the missing aircraft type was
located, it could not be established if it came from the missing aircraft. Also no trace of
the crew could be found.
It was believed that the aircraft came down in the sea approx 3 miles west of Jaffa,
Palestine, and that the crew were lost at sea.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
10963 FO Williams, A.H., Pilot.
428417 FO Fong, G., 2nd Pilot.
433709 Flt Sgt C.E.H. Barnfield, Navigator Bombaimer.
435057 Flt Sgt A.B.Tunnock, Wireless Operator/Air.
436254 Flt Sgt A.A.Robins, Wireless Operator/Air.
430970 Flt Sgt N.G.Sandlant, Wireless Operator/Air.
271
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402064 Flight Sergeant SANDS, Alwyn Harold
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/160/167
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hurricane
BN 282
73 Sqn RAF
Summary:
On 27 May 1942, Flt Sgt Sands was detailed to fly BN 282 from El Adem to Gambut
West. He did not leave with the rest of the Squadron as the aircraft was temporarily
unserviceable. He left at a later time but BN 282 did not arrive at its destination.
Although initially reported as missing, Flt Sgt Sands remains was found in the SollumTobruk area by the 2nd Cameroons, identified by a pay book and buried withy bthe grave
being marked by a cross.
Following post war searches when the grave could not be located, the search was
abandoned in 1946.
Crew:
RAAF
402064 Flt Sgt Sands, A H (Pilot)
272
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
406736 Sergeant SCANLAN, William Llewellyn
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/160/343
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Marauder
1529
2 (B) Sqn (USAAF)
Summary:
Marauder 1529 of No 2 Bomber Squadron, USAAF, 22nd Bomber Group, together with
two other B26’s took off at 11am from Laloki on 17 December 1942, on a bombing
mission to Buna, New Guinea, but 1529 failed to return. Pilots of the accompanying
aircraft reported that about 20 minutes after take off, the aircraft were approaching the
mountains about 15 miles from the Kokada Gap. The Flight Leader made a gentle turn to
port, still climbing to gain altitude. After the turn Sgt Scanlan’s aircraft which was in
number 3 position, was not seen again. Both the accompanying aircraft called over the
R/T but no reply was received.
Crew:
USAAF
RAAF
USAAF
USAAF
USAAF
USAAF
USAAF
Lt Anderson, F J (Pilot)
406736 Sgt Scanlan, W L (Pilot)
1st Lt Hansen, E H
2nd Lt Willoughby, S K
Sgt Powell, T R
Sgt Whitley jr, G W
Sgt McLean. J H
Searches were carried out over the next four days but no trace of the missing plane or
crew was found. RAAF search parties conducted further searches after the war but were
unsuccessful. It was recorded that Sgt Scanlan had lost his life on 17 December 1942.
273
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
433034 Flight Sergeant SCHAFER, William Mathew
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/37/571
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
MF 698
30 Operational Trg RAF
Summary:
Wellington MF 698 of 30 Operational Training Unit RAF took off from RAF Seighford
satellite drome at 0300 hours on 12 October 1944, on a night cross country exercise.
Approx 30 minutes after take off the first position report was received from the aircraft,
but after that nothing was heard and MF 698 did not return to base. The route of the
exercise was over the Cardigan Bay area.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
427966 PO White, D G (Pilot)
426094 WO Gibson, J R (Navigator)
419758 Sgt Kingsley, R G (Air Bomber)
437884 Flt Sgt Telford, A R (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
433034 Flt Sgt Schafer, W M (Air Gunner)
Sgt Glasper, N (A/C)
FO Woodley, W (Flying Instructor)
FO Pegrum, A (Flying Instructor)
In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
274
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
406153 Sergeant SCHOFIELD, Albert Charles
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/37/20
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
W 7699
35 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Halifax W 7699 of No 35 (Madras Presidency) Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station
Linton-on-Ouse, Yorkshire, at 2329 hours on the 8th June 1942, to bomb Essen,
Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RNZAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
PO MacKenzie, A C
Sgt Bottomley, J E
Sgt Elliott, H R G
Flt Sgt Sharman, J G
Sgt Evans, E E C
406153 Sgt Scholfield, A C (Air Gunner)
275
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404859 Sergeant SCHULTZ, Harold Henry
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/160/162, 163/169/104, Micro Film No 463 OAFH
Commonwealth War Graves records.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hudson
V 8993
ATTD 279 SQN RAF
Summary:
Hudson V 8993 of 279 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Docking, Norfolk at 0830 hours on
13 February 1942 to carry out a sea patrol off the east coast of UK bounded by an area
52.25N 03.30E and 52.35N 03.30E. Visibility was good with patchy mist and low cloud.
The icing index was high. The aircraft was due to return at 1130 hours but it failed to
return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
Sgt G R M Gerrard, (Pilot)
Sgt J H Redhead, (Observer)
404859 Sgt H H Schultz, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
403165 Sgt J Logan, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
The body of Sgt Logan (RAAF) was washed ashore on the shoe at Palling, Norfolk, some
14 miles north west of Yarmouth. He is buried in the Scottow Cemetery, Coltishall.
It was recorded in 1948 that the three missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.
Their names are recorded on the Memorial to the Missing Runnymede, UK.
276
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
411532 Sergeant SCHULTZ, Lancelot Hood
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/37/52
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Beaufighter
XD 8132
272 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Beaufighter X 8132 of 272 Sqn RAF took off from Takali with other aircraft of the
Squadron to act as an escort to Beauforts engaged on a shipping strike. Over the target
many combats took place with enemy aircraft of different types, and it was possible that
X 8132 was shot down as it did not return to base. It was not seen to return from the
target area after combat.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
411532 Sgt Schultz, L H (Pilot)
Sgt Wainwright, W A (Observer)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
277
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
423335 Flight Sergeant SCOTT, John Symms
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/37/354
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
MZ 507
MH – P2
51 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Halifax MZ 507 of 51 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Snaith, near Goole,
Yorkshire, at 1843 hours on 24 March 1944 to attack Berlin. Nothing was heard from the
aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Lt Curtis, R Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Willson, W V (Navigator)
423335 Flt Sgt Scott, J S (Air Bomber)
Sgt Sidebotham,, A Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Hepworth, R (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Midlane, (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Taylor, L (Rear Gunner)
Both Sgts Sidebotham and Midlane became POW’s. The Germans reported that the
bodies of Sgts Willson and Taylor were identified, and that Flt Sgt Scott had lost his life,
but no burial details were given. It was later recorded that Flt Sgt Scott had no known
grave.
278
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
416618 Flight Sergeant SEDGLEY, Bryant Frederick
Source:
NAA : A705, 166t/37/185
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HF 688
40 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HF 688 of 40 Sqn RAF, Middle East, took off on the night of 19/20th August
1943, on an operational flight over Scalea on the south west coast of Italy, approx 108
miles south east of Naples. HF 688 did not return to base after the mission. At the time it
was presumed that the missing aircraft might have been shot down by enemy action over
the target, as two crews of accompanying aircraft reported seeing an aircraft crash in
flames on the beach near Scalea at approx 1240am on 20 August. No member of the crew
was seen to bale out and it was not possible to state if the aircraft was HF 688.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
Sgt Field, C S Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Boyd, B C L (Navigator)
416618 Flt Sgt Sedgley, B F (Air Bomber)
Sgt Facey, R S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Taylor, C L (Air Gunner)
Following post war investigations and interrogations of local residents it was established
that the above aircraft was not HF 688 but another lost on the same raid. Searches could
not locate HF 688 or crew, and it was recorded that the aircraft had crashed into the sea
and the crew had no known grave.
279
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
418185 Sergeant SENGER, Grant Charles
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/37/108
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hampden
AN 100
32 Op Training RCAF
Summary:
Hampden AN 100 of 32 Operational Training RCAF, took off at 1140 hours on 4 June
1943 for a navigational exercise over the sea. The aircraft received a WT signal at 1200
hours, but after that nothing was heard from AN 100 and it did not return to base after the
exercise.
Searches later recovered some wreckage from AN 100 from the sea, but no trace of
survivors was found.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
Sgt Baker, W VF (Pilot)
Sgt Ralph, J (Navigator)
422214 Sgt Maddrell, G W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
418185 Sgt Senger, G C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
280
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
435489 Flight Sergeant SHANNON, Evan Frederick
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/37/1019
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
LM 177
PM – Z
103 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster LM 177 of 103 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Elsham Wolds, Barnetby,
Lincolnshire, was detailed to lay mines in enemy waters in the Aarhus Bay, Denmark.
LM 177 took off at the appointed on the night of 4/5th April 1945 but nothing further was
heard and the aircraft did not return to base.
Four other 103 Squadron aircraft took part in the mission, and when homeward bound
from the Danish coast, members of another crew saw three aircraft shot down behind
them but were unable to identify any individual aircraft. Two of the aircraft appeared to
crash into the sea and one on the land. In each case the mines would have been already
laid.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
414031 FO Hole, L, Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Kelly, E (Flight Engineer)
430123 Flt Sgt Jeffrey, S A (Air Bomber)
437854 Flt Sgt Hodge, C J (Navigator)
432969 Flt Sgt Pearce, S D (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
437300 FO Vallentine, V L (Mid Upper Gunner)
435489 Flt Sgt Shannon, E F (Rear Gunner)
In 1949 it was reported that all efforts to find any trace of the aircraft or crew had been
unsuccessful and the crew had been recorded as missing lost at sea.
281
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400357 Flight Sergeant SHAPIR, Morris William
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/161/147
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
DV 676
108 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington DV 676 of 108 Sqn RAF was returning from a mission over Tobruk on 15
August 1942, when its engines cut out and it made a forced landing in the desert at night
in the Quattara depression, Egypt. The aircraft hit a hill was badly damaged and all the
crew seriously injured.
The crew were rescued by a tank patrol of the 4th Hussars. Flt Sgt Shapir’s body was
removed from the aircraft and buried nearby and the wrecked aircraft destroyed. The
location was 15 miles due south of Minqar Zahr El Himar, and approx 48 miles SSW of
Alem el Gill. One other member of the crew Sgt Beavan (RAF) later died of his injuries.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
400690 Sgt Bond, J C Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Beavan, A R (2nd Pilot)
PO Smith, F H (Navigator)
400357 Flt Sgt Shapir, M W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Rodden, D (Wireless Operator)
404306 Sgt Taylor, A A (Rear Gunner)
Post war searches failed to locate the grave of Flt Sgt Shapir.
282
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
432885 Flight Sergeant SHARP, Jack Wallace
Source:
NAA : A9301, Barcode 5536291
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
NG 222
1654 Heavy Conversion RAF
Summary:
Lancaster NG 222 of 1654 Heavy Conversion Unit RAF, took off from RAF Station
Wigsley at 1125am on 12 April 1945, on a cross country training flight in England,
finishing up with an air sea firing exercise over the Wash off the east coast of England.
At 2.15pm a message was received from the aircraft requesting a weather report, which
was cloudy with slight haze, visibility 4 miles. The report was acknowledged at 2.15pm.
There was no further contact however with the aircraft which failed to reply to a signal
from base sent at 3.40pm for a report on its position and an ETA.
Searches were subsequently made and the body of Flt Sgt Darby (RAF) was recovered
from the sea at Northclates, near Grimsby, Lincoln. There was however no trace found of
the missing aircraft or remaining crew members.
Crew:
RAAF
35027 Flt Sgt Wedd, C W Captain (Pilot)
RAAF
428057 FO Smith, B P (Observer)
RAAF
124764 FO Rolston, A G (Bombaimer)
RAAF
432885 Flt Sgt Sharp, J W (Wireless Operator Air)
RAF
Flt Sgt Baker
RAF
Sgt Chapman
RAF
Sgt Hope
RAF
Flt Sgt Darby
RAF Flt Sgt Hardman
It was later recorded that the eight missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.
283
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
428510 Warrant Officer SHEARER, John Garnet
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/37/1020
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Boston
BZ 489
18 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Boston BZ 489 of 18 (Burma) Sqn RAF, Central Mediterranean Force, took of from Foeli
airfield at 2304 hours on 6 April 1943 to attack ferry terminals east of Pontelaggoscuro.
When the aircraft was returning to base after the attack, a considerable amount of flak
was encountered near Porto Gariboldi which the aircraft avoided by flying out to sea, but
experiencing flak all the time. Shortly after an explosion occurred and the aircraft crashed
into the sea from 1000 feet.
On impact, the pilots hatch flew off and he (WO Whitwell RAF) climbed out. He swam
around the tail of the aircraft the only part being visible the rest of the aircraft being
under water. At that moment the dinghy inflated and he climber into it, by which time the
aircraft had sunk. The pilot was in the dinghy until 0230 hours on 8 April, and found he
was within swimming distance of land. He swam ashore and local Army personnel took
him to SSQ Headquarters 324 Wing and then 22MFH. He saw no trace of the other
members of the crew after the crash at 0020 hours on 7 April 1943.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
WO Whitwell, R W J Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Lake, H G (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
428510 WO Shearer, J G (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgtt Cowe, J (Air Gunner)
It was later recorded that the three missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.
284
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
411394 Flight Sergeant SHEARMAN, David John
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/37/83
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Kittyhawk
53 Repairy Salvage 239 Wing Trg Flight RAF
Summary:
Flt Sgt Shearman was authorised to fly a Kittyhawk from Bu-Grara landing ground on
2nd May 1943 to carry out aerobatics for one hour at 12000 feet. The aircraft took off at
0915 hours.
At 10.15 hours the Flight Commander leading four aircraft in formation practice
observed Flt Sgt Shearman flying in the aerodrome circuit at 1000 feet heading in a south
west direction, and that the aircraft seemed under complete control. At 1115 hours when
the endurance of the aircraft had expired, the Flight Commander searched the area but no
trace of the missing aircraft or pilot was found. Extensive searches were then carried out
but were unsuccessful. The weather at the time was visibility of 3/4 miles at 2000 feet
and deteriorating.
Crew:
RAAF
411394 Flt Sgt Shearman, D J (Pilot)
In 1948 it was recorded that the missing pilot had no known grave.
285
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
410014 Flight Sergeant SHEEAN, Lorin James
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/37/279
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
LK 926
MP – C
76 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Halifax LK 926 of 76 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Holme on Spalding Moor
Yorkshire, at 1639 hours on 21 December 1943 being one of a number of aircraft detailed
to bomb Frankfurt, Germany. The last message received from LK 926 was at 2153 hours
when in position 5148N, 0344E. Nothing further was heard and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RNZAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RCAF
RAAF
Flt Sgt Matthews, C W Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Lamb, J A (Navigator)
Flt Sgt Gillingham, L F (Air Bomber)
Sgt Cohen, H C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Taylor, R F (Flight Engineer)
Sgt McClelland , D S (Mid Upper Gunner)
410014 Flt Sgt Sheean, L J (Rear Gunner)
The body of Flt Sgt Matthews (RAF) was washed ashore and is buried at Bergen-opZoom British Military Cemetery. The remains of Flt Sgt Lamb (RNZAF) are buried at
Castricum Par Cemetery. It was later recorded that the remaining missing crew members
had lost their lives at sea.
286
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
412721 Flight Sergeant SHELDON, Leslie Thomas William
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/37/314
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hudson
AM 710
608 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Hudson AM 710 of 608 Sqn RAF took off from its base in Sicily at 0252 hours on 14
September 1943 to conduct a U-Boat hunt. After takeoff the aircraft made two circuits of
the drome. On the second circuit the ACP stated that he saw a ‘vapour trail’ from the
starboard engine. Thinking the aircraft would land immediately the ACP gave it a green.
The aircraft then left the circuit area on a course of 290 degrees at an approx height of
1000-1500 feet and was not seen again.
At approx 0310 hours a pilot of 235 Sqn stated that he saw flames on the surface of the
water in position 3802N 1222E, approx four miles from the coast of Sicily. No trace of
wreckage or the crew was found.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RCAF
411736 FO Bradley, B G S (Pilot)
412679 Flt Sgt Pettitt, E N (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
412721 Flt Sgt Sheldon, L T (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
FO Cherer (Navigator)
287
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
411958 Warrant Officer SHEPHERD, Onslow Harold Maxwell
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/37/309
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Spitfire
MA 636
93 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Spitfire MA 636 of 93 Sqn RAF was one of eight aircraft of the Squadron detailed to
carry out a patrol over the Anzio beach head area, on the west coast of Italy about 32
miles south east of Rome.
The aircraft took off at 1315 hours on 27th January 1944. At approx 1345 hours flying
north west at 17000 feet the formation sighted eight ME 109’s flying south east at 15000
feet. Also reported were several FW190’s in the area. The formation engaged the enemy,
and MA 636 which failed to return to base was last seen as it went into attack.
Crew:
RAAF
411958 WO Shepherd, O H M (Pilot)
Following post war searches and enquiries it was recorded that WO Shepherd had no
known grave.
288
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
411265 Sergeant SHEPHERD, Trevor Douglas
Source:
NAA : A9301 Barcode 5528880
No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
Z 1651
150 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington Z 1651 of 150 Sqn RAF was one of 9 aircraft which took off from RAF
Station Snaith, Yorkshire, to attack Bremen, Germany. The weather en route was cloudy,
but fine over the target which was obscured by smoke haze. Moderate to heavy flak was
encountered over the north west and south east of Bremen. Nothing was heard from
Z1651 aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
404963 Flt Sgt H.F.Grace, Captain (Pilot).
Sgt J.C.Chamers, Observer.
405588 Sgt H.W.Holgate, Bombaimer.
Sgt C.Mackenzie, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
411265 Sgt T.D.Shepherd, Air Gunner.
Following post war enquiries and investigations when no trace of the missing aircraft or
crew was found, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing crew had no known grave.
289
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
406493 Flight Sergeant SHERWOOD, Leslie Roy
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/161/311
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Beaufort
DD 881
5 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Beaufort DD 581 of No 5 Operational Training Unit, RAF, was detailed to carry out a
night navigational training exercise on 27 October 1942. The route was Base – Ayr –
Mull of Kintyre – Rathlin East Maidens – Mull of Galloway – Corsewell – Base. DD881
ran out of fuel and it presumably crashed in the Irish Sea at approx 2339 hours on the
27th October.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
406493 Flt Sgt Sherwood, L R (Pilot)
Sgt Ellis, R A (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
Sgt Hancock, G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Newman, C W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
290
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
406412 Sergeant SHINER, Jack Marawa
Source:
NAA : A9301, Bar Code 5540607
No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives, but see A705, 163/123/93
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
ATTD Royal Air Force Hq Royal Air Force (Mid East)
Summary:
A Blenheim aircraft in transit from the UK to the Middle East took off from RAF Luqa,
Malta at 0110 hours on 30 March 1942, but failed to arrive at its destination in the Middle
East. It was presumed that the aircraft was lost at sea.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
406396 Sgt Janney, H (Pilot)
406412 Sgt Shiner, J M (Observer)
406301 Sgt Johnson, C E (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
291
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400840 Flight Sergeant SILLCOCK, Ronald Rasleigh
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/162/513
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hudson
V 9253
53 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Hudson V 9253 of 53 Sqn RAF took off from Edinburgh Field, Trinidad at 0945 hours on
10 November 1942 to carry out a routine anti-submarine patrol south east of Trinidad.
The aircraft made a routine signal before it was due to return to base at 1600 hours GMT.
At 1700 hours an attempt was made at W/T communication but no acknowledgement
was received. Subsequent searches found no trace of the missing aircraft or crew.
Crew:
RAAF
RNZAF
RAF
RAF
US Navy
400840 Flt Sgt Sillcock, R R (Pilot)
Sgt Nelson, P G (Observer)
Sgt Millar, R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Skinner, W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Seaman 1st Class Drew, H I (Passenger)
292
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402026 Sergeant SIMPSON, James McKenzie
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/162/201
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Maryland
69 Sqn RAF
Summary:
A Maryland aircraft of 69 Sqn RAF left Luqa, Malta on 15 July 1941 to carry out a photo
recce over Tripoli and the North African coast. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after
take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
404019 Sgt Lee, C F (Pilot)
RAAF
402026 Sgt Simpson, J McK (Observer)
RAAF
404036 Sgt Neill, J C G (Air Gunner)
There are no other details of any other crew member recorded on above file.
In 1948 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
293
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
408784 Flight Sergeant SIMPSON, Lloyd Garnet
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/37/178
AWM 65 (4695)
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HZ 351
547 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HZ 351 of 547 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Davidston Moore,
Camelford, Cornwall, at 1410 hours on 15 August 1943 to carry out an operational sortie
in the Bay of Biscay. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not
return to base. The enemy claimed to have destroyed four British aircraft in the area that
day, but it is not known if it included HZ 351.
Crew:
RNZAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
PO White, J Captain (Pilot)
PO Blunt, J (2nd Pilot)
PO Fisher, (Navigator)
12168 WO Bathurst, A L (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
408784 Flt Sgt Simpson,, L G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
408788 Flt Sgt Taylor, R J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
294
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
415187 Warrant Officer SINCLAIR, Kenneth Arthur
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/37/419
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
ND 695
630 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster ND 695 of 630 Sqn RAF took off from East Kirkby airfield near Spilsby,
Lincolnshire, at 2238 hours on 22 May 1944 to attack a target at Brunswick, Germany.
Nothing further was heard of the aircraft or crew.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
414903 PO Brown, V W, Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Haig, D B (Flight Engineer)
415187 WO Sinclair, K A (Navigator)
Sgt Connor, T W (Air Bomber)
Sgt Saxby, W J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
Sgt Binne, J (Air Gunner)
434558 Flt Sgt Taylor, W I (Air Gunner)
295
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407651 Warrant Officer SLADE, Alfred Byrne
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/37/229
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HZ 603
38 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HZ 603 of 38 Sqn RAF Middle East, took off from Nicosia at 1827C hours
on 27 October 1943 to carry out an offensive operation in the Aegean Sea, and then
return to Berga 111. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not
return to base.
Crew:
RAF
SAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
Flt Sgt Dubery, C D Captain (Pilot)
Lt Garlick, G L (2nd Pilot)
FO Walton, D R (Navigator)
407651 W O Slade, A B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
406324 Flt Sgt Barnes, V S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
407560 WO McCord, D A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
296
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407594 Sergeant SMALL, James Thomson
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/162/294
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
3872
11 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blemheim 3872 of 11 Sqn RAF was missing on 19 February 1942, from an operational
flight to Landing Ground 121 in Sidi Barrani area, Egypt. The aircraft took off from Bade
at 1130 hours on 19 February.
The wreck of the aircraft was founhd on 31 March 1942, 68 miles west of Mersa Matruh,
1.5 miles north of the railway in the Sidi Barrani area. The identities of the missing crew
were established and the remains of the crew were buried.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
407594 Sgt Small, J T (Pilot)
404025 Sgt Clements, R H (Observer)
400684 Sgt Wheeler, W R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war searches and investigations when no trace of the graves were found,
it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had no known grave.
297
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
401397 Sergeant SMART, Mervyn Goulbourne
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/162/469
AWM 65(4728)
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HF 846
40 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HF 846 of 40 Sqn RAF took off at 2000 hours on 25 September 1942, to
attack Tobruk defences. No W/T messages were received from the HF 846, but other
aircraft on the same mission reported seeing an aircraft crash and burst into flames in
position 1 miles south of Gubbi satellite drome at approx 0005 hours.
Crew:
RNZAF
RNZAF
RNZAF
RNZAF
RAAF
RAF
Sgt Langham, G F Captain (Pilot)
PO Adams, B A (2nd Pilot)
Sgt Welsh, J M (Observer)
Sgt Cook, R H (Wireless Operator)
401397 Sgt Smart, M G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner – Front Gunner)
Sgt Price, W G CD (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was later recorded that the missing
crew had no known grave.
298
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
411953 Warrant Officer SMITH, Daryl Hamilton
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/227
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HE 613
104 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HE 613 of 104 Sqn RAF took off from Hani West Landing Ground at night
on 7 August 1943 to attack Cape Palami, Italy. The aircraft failed to return from this
mission. Cape Palami is on the south west coast of Italy approx. 20 miles north east of
Reggio.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
411953 W O Smith, D H Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Bristow, K F (2nd Pilot)
421140 Sgt Veale, R S (Navigator)
416554 Flt Sgt Ellis, R A (Bombaimer)
Sgt Holmes, F C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Barriskill, W J (Air Gunner)
Following post war instructions and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the
missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
299
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
414974 Warrant Officer SMITH, Egbert
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/770
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Spitfire
F 466
92 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Spitfire F 466 of 93 (East India) Sqn RAF, Central Mediterranean Force, took off from
landing ground 25 on 12 November 1944 to carry out a recce over Fiume, Yugoslavia.
The mission was led by PO lane (RAF) who reported by R/T 25 minutes after take off
that he and WO Smith were carrying on with the mission. Nothing further was heard
from the aircraft and both failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
414974 WO Smith, E (Pilot)
300
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403537 Sergeant SMITH, Frank Raymond
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/162/426
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
DV 663
40 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington DV 663 of 40 Sqn RAF took off at 1945 hours on the 7th August 1942 to
attack shipping in Tobruk Harbour Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and
it did not return to base.
Crew:
RNZAF
RAF
RNZAF
RAAF
RAAF
RCAF
Sgt Kerr, L F Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Hainey, K K (2nd Pilot)
Sgt Thomson, J I (Observer)
403537 Sgt Smith, F R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
404712 Sgt Gowdie, R StC (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Wolstenholme, D (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
301
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405027 Flight Sergeant SMITH, Jack Lindsay
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/162/483
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
Z 8594
104 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington Z 8594 of 104 Sqn RAF took off at night on 14/15th October 1942 to attack
Tobruk. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RNZAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
Sgt Baldwin, E W Captain (Pilot)
WO Keane, D M (2nd Pilot)
Flt Sgt Elliott, R J (Observer)
405027 Flt Sgt Smith, J L (2nd Observer)
Sgt Clark, H R (Wireless Operator)
405548 Flt Sgt Gannon, R D (Air Gunner)
The names of Sgt Gannon and Sgt Smith (RAAF) are commemorated on the Alamein
Missing Memorial
302
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407934 Warrant Officer SMITH, John James
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/206
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Dakota
FD 774
267 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Dakota FD 774 of 267 Sqn RAF left El Aquina on a non operational flight on 9 July
1943. The aircraft was forced to make a crash landing in rough seas in the sea in position
35.20N, 12.00E.
The pilot (Flt Sgt Cargill RNZAF) drifted ashore in a dinghy near Sfax, and informed the
nearest air unit, 15th Fighter Squadron, USAAF, who undertook searches which were
called off on 10 July. FD 774 experienced double engine failure when flying over the sea
at 2000 feet. The cause pointed to petrol starvation. The aircraft was last refuelled at
Castel Benito where previous trouble had arisen with contaminated fuel.
Crew:
RNZAF
RAAF
RNZAF
Flt Sgt Cargill, R W (Pilot)
407934 WO Smith, J J (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
Flt Sgt Hannan, D J A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
It was later recorded that the missing two crew members had most their lives at sea.
303
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
423098 Sergeant SMITH, Mervyn Charles Bruce
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/307
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hampden
No 6 Operational Trg RAF
Summary:
A Hampden aircraft of No 6 Operational Trg RAF on a night navigation training exercise
on 16 October 1943, but the aircraft did not return to base from this exercise. The last
radio contact was at 1949 hours on the 16 October. All emergency measures were taken
to make contact with the aircraft but were unsuccessful. Searches were conducted for five
days, but no trace could be found of the missing aircraft or crew.
Crew:
RAAF
21526 PO Porter, R R G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
RAAF
423098 Sgt Smith, M C B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Plus 2 members of the RAF.
In 1945, the wreckage of a Hampden aircraft and the remains of 4 crew were located
north of Maggie Lake on Vancouver Island, Canada. The crash occurred on a hill in
mountainous and wooded country, with access being too difficult to bring out the
unidentifiable remains. A burial party including an RCAF Chaplain proceeded to the
scene of the crash on Monday 30 July 1945, to conduct a funeral service and effect burial.
In 1949 the Imperial War Graves Commission advised that it was not possible for the
grave to be registered and to place a permanent headstone over the grave, and that the
304
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
413709 Flight Sergeant SMITH, Raymond Douglas-Crowley
Source:
NAA : A9301, Barcode 5539693
See also A705, 166/42/30
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Albermarle
P 1433
511 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Albermarle P1433 of 511 Sqn RAF on an operational flight on 10 August 1943 sent out
an SOS from position 3538N, 0734W. This placed it out to sea approx 105 miles west of
Tarifa, Spain. Three days of searching did not reveal any trace of the missing aircraft or
crew.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RCAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
403245 FO Valder, J C R (Wireless Operator)
413709 Flt Sgt Smith, R D C (Pilot – Passenger)
FO Clark, D C W
FO Little, A W
Sgt McLellan, W J W
Cpl Alexander, R K
Sgt Oxley, J
Sgt Flower, A J
Sgt Woods
Sgt Charnok
PO Davies
Sgt Clarkson
In 1948 it was recorded that the crew and passengers of P1433 had lost their lives at sea
and had no known grave.
305
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
423365 Flight Sergeant SMITH, Ronald Alfred
Source:
NAA : A9301, Barcode 5530105.
See also A705, 166/20/194
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hudson
FK 752
251 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Hudson FK 752 of 251 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Reykjavik, Iceland, at 1230
hours on 9 November 1944, to carry out a normal meteorological flight. Clear icing
conditions were encountered on the outward leg. The return journey was carried out
under similar conditions, until an SOS was received at 2057 hours when the aircraft was
approx 75 miles south west of Reykjavik. The trouble being encountered was not stated.
At 2105 hours the aircraft key was held down enabling the D/F station to get a bearing.
After that there was no further contact with the aircraft which did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
FO Lambert, B F Captain (Pilot)
423365 Flt Sgt Smith, R A (Wireless Operator Air)
423132 Flt Sgt Jenner, J D, (Wireless Operator Air)
Flt Sgt Syms, H J E
LAC Martin, I B
Considerable air and sea searches were carried out but no trace of the missing aircraft or
crew was found. It was believed that the aircraft had become loaded with ice to such an
extent that it was forced down into the sea.
306
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
415743 Flight Sergeant SNOOK, Graham Ernest
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/283
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
JD 156
138 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Halifax JD 156 of 138 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Temsford, near Sandy, Bedfordshire
at 1827 hours on 16 September 1943 along with other aircraft of the Squadron, to carry
out a special mission in Poland. Nothing was heard from JD 156 after take off and it did
not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
415368 Flt Sgt Trotter, L A (Pilot)
FO Bradley, J R (Navigator)
Flt Sgt Jones, G T (Air Bomber)
Sgt Johnston, H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
415743 Flt Sgt Snook, G E (Air Gunner)
422007 Flt Sgt Quinlivan, D R (Air Gunner)
Sgt Francis, S (Flight Engineer)
Flt Sgt Trotter (RAAF), Flt Sgt Quinlivan (RAAF), Flt Sgt Jones (RAF) and Sgt Francis
(RAF) became POW’s. In a later statement by Flt Sgt Trotter he reported that “Flt Sgt
Snook was alive and uninjured up to the time the aircraft ditched in the Baltic.Trotter and
the other three who became POW’s escaped from the aircraft and were two hours in the
water before being taken prisoners. No others were seen to escape from the aircraft and
he believed that Flt Sgt Snook and the other two crew members had lost their lives when
the aircraft ditched.”
It was later established that the body of Sgt Johnston was washed ashore in Denmark and
is buried at Frederikshaven on the east coast of Jutland while that of FO Bradley is
interred at Randers. It was recorded that Flt Sgt Snook had lost his life at sea.
307
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
415189 Flight Sergeant SOMERVELL, David Edward
Source:
NAA : A9301 Barcode 5531227
No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Beaufighter
235 Sqn RAF
Summary:
RAAF Flt Sgt Somervell (Pilot) of 235 Sqn RAF was reported missing on 28 March 1943
when flying a Beaufighter aircraft on air operations from UK.
308
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
408059 Warrant Officer SOUNDY, John Trevor
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/9
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Mitchell
41-12483
13 (B) Sqn (USAAF)
Summary:
Mitchell 41-12483 of No 13 Bomber Sqn USAAF left its base at Charters Towers at
9.30am on 7 January 1943 to fly to Port Moresby, New Guinea and return. Nothing was
heard from the aircraft after take off and it failed to arrive at Port Moresby.
Crew:
RAAF
USAAF
USAAF
USAAF
\USAAF
408059 WO Soundy, J T (Pilot)
1st Lt Doolan (Co-Pilot)
T/Sgt Butler, J P
T/Sgt Cooper, K A
S/Sgt Whimsett, M S
309
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400605 Sergeant SPACKMAN, Peter
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/163/240 Commonwealth War Graves records
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lerwick
L 7268
4 (C) Op Trg RAF
Summary:
Lerwick L7268 of No 4 (C) Operational Training Unit RAF took off at 1100 hours on 14
October 1941 but crashed into the sea six miles ENE off Tarbatness, Scotland, due to
engine failure. The flying boat port engine commenced to pop and the pilot experienced
difficulty, and at 800 feet the aircraft went into a dive and crashed. It was believed that
the port engine failed and the aircraft stalled, with the pilot unable to correct due to lack
of height.
Crew:
FFF
RCAF
RAAF
RNZAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
WO Bette, R D (Pilot) (Free French Forces) .
PO Gilmore, G D
PO Hall, A G (Observer)
400605 Sgt Spackman, P (Observer)
Sgt Johnston J A
Sgt Ballard, R W
AC1 J K Kidd,
AC2 G Kidd,
AC2 S O Wainwright,
PO Marshall, V (survived)
Sgt Cole H F (survived)
There were two survivors from the crash and the bodies of PO Hall and Sgt Ballard were
recovered. The remaining missing members including Sgt Spackman (RAAF) lost their
lives at sea. Their names are commemorated on he Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede,
UK.
PO Hall is buried in the Barshill Cemetery, UK.
Sgt Ballard is buried in the Badsey (St James) Churchyard, UK.
310
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
413679 Flight Sergeant SPALDING, Norman Wilkie
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/225
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HE 657
104 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HE 657 of 104 Sqn RAF Middle East, took off from Hani West Landing
Ground at 2108 hours on the night of 7 August 1943 to attack Cape Palmi, Italy. Cape
Palmi is on the south west coast of Italy, approx 20 miles north east of Reggio. Nothing
was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
Sgt Hall, K Captain (Pilot)
414825 Flt Sgt Paterson, J E (Navigator)
Sgt Garner, W (Air Bomber)
Sgt Chauncy, P A R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
413679 Flt Sgt Spalding, N W (Air Gunner)
Following intensive post war searches of the Cape {Palmi area, no trace of the missing
aircraft or crew were found, and it was concluded that the crew had lost their lives at sea.
311
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
416799 Sergeant SPARROW, Norman Thomas
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/145
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Beaufort
DW 995
5 (C) Op Training RAF
Summary:
Beaufort DW 995 of No 5 Conversion Operational Training Unit RAF was detailed to
carry out a night navigational exercise on 22 May 1943. The weather was good when the
aircraft crashed into the sea off Port Rush, Northern Ireland at 0115 hours on 23 May.
Crew:
RCAF
RAAF
RNZAF
RAF
PO Post W (Pilot)
416799 Sgt Sparrow, N T (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
Sgt Brumy, C H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Booth, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
312
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402411 Sergeant SPENCE, Harold Menzies
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/163/391
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Commonwealth War Graves records
Lancaster
R 5636
OL – K
83 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster R 5636 of 83 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Scampton, Lincoln, at 2214
hours on 11 June 1942 for a mining operation in the vicinity of the Friesian Islands.
Nothing further was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAF
PO Mackay, P S, Captain (Pilot)
Sgt O’Day, D N (2nd Pilot)
401086 FO Williams, W K (Navigator/Bombaimer)
Sgt Monk, D J (1st Wireless Operator)
Sgt Clark, T H (2nd Wireless Operator)
402411Sgt Spence, H M (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Melhuissh, T W (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded that the missing crew
had lost their lives at sea. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the
Missing, Runnymede, Surrey,UK.
313
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402412 Flight Sergeant STACK, Edward Francis
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/163/124
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
W 4176
44 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster W 4176 of No 44 (Rhodesia) Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Waddington
at 1751 hours on 9 January 1943 to carry out a mine laying operation in the Baltic Sea,
Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
PO Shattock N C Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Barrett, W (Flight Engineer)
402412 Flt Sgt Stack, E F (Navigator Bombaimer)
Sgt Crowley, M J (Air Bomber)
Flt Sgt Morton, H W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Bell, J (Air Gunner)
Sgt Gladwish, R E (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
314
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR
FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND
MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.
411543 Flight Sergeant STANFORD, Bertram James
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/143
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
LA 908
215 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington LA 908 of 215 Sqn RAF India, took off at 2004 hours on 18 May 1943 from
Jessore, on night operations to bomb military objectives in Burma. Crews of other aircraft
on the mission saw flares dropped in the Praee-Baungua road area at 0036 hours on the
19 May, which was assumed to come from LA 908. Nothing was heard from LA 908
after take off and it did not return to base from the mission.
A Japanese broadcast claimed to have shot down a Wellington in the area in question on
that night but no mention was made of the crew.
Crew:
RNZAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
WO Clarke, R J Captain (Pilot)
411543 Flt Sgt Stanford, B J (2nd Pilot)
407076 WO Ising, G E (Navigator Bombaimer)
Sgt Murray, J A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Smithson, H T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Nice, B R (Air Gunner.
Following post war investigations and enquiries the search was abandoned for the
missing crew in 1946.
315
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407810 Sergeant STEELE, Geoffrey Moore
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/163/325
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
Z 9713
211 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim Z 9713 of 211 Sqn RAF was lost as a result of enemy action at approx
12.30pm on 6 February 1942. Three aircraft were operating on escort duty and two did
not return (Z 7586 and Z 9713), and the third aircraft was shot down on the way back to
Palembang. The escort duty was over a convoy from Berhala Straits to Banka Straits.
A survivor (Sgt Offard) from the third aircraft shot down, later stated that “he had seen
one Blenheim on fire, but he did not know what happened to the second aircraft missing”.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
407810 Sgt Steele, G M (Pilot)
400417 Sgt Menzies, S K (Observer)
402033 Sgt Gornall, G H (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations the search for the above missing crew
was abandoned in 1950.
316
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
430067 Flight Sergeant STENHOUSE, Hugh
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/666
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
NE 123
MG – F
7 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster NE 123 of 7 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Oakington, Cambridge at 2224 hours
on 25 August 1944 to carry out an attack on coastal batteries at Brest, France. Nothing
further was heard from the aircraft and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
Sqn Ldr Chopping, R G DFC Captain (Pilot)
FO Bolt, W T (Navigator)
FO Munsey, R H (Air Bomber)
Flt Sgt Ross, W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Cherry, A G (Flight Engineer)
430067 Flt Sgt Stenhouse, H (Mid Upper Gunner)
FO Marchand, G J (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
317
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
420294 Warrant Officer STENNING, Bruce
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/163/333
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Albermarle
P 1501
296 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Albermarle P 1501 of 296 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Brise Norton, at 2230
hours on the night of 8th August 1944, to carry out a small arms supply drop to the
Maquis at position 47.00.14secs N, 0.40.39 secs E. The aircraft failed to return from this
mission.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
420294 WO Stenning, B Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Abell, E R (Navigator)
Flt Sgt Elwood, A F (Wireless Operator Air)
Flt Sgt Hammond, G A (Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Manton, F N (Air Gunner)
Sgt Cowhan, R (Wireless Operator Air) attached from ORTU Hamstead.
It was established post war that the aircraft had been shot down by a German night fighter
and crashed about 0300 hours on 9 August 1944 at Val D’ize near Vitre (Ille et Vilaine).
The Mayor stated that it was not possible for any member of the crew to escape, with the
aircraft crashing in flames and disintegrating.
The body of Sgt Cowhan (RAF) had been recovered along with the remains of one
unidentified member and both are buried at Bayeaux, France. A memorial plaque has also
been installed in the cemetery to commemorate the missing members of the crew.
318
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
9037 Flight Sergeant STEPHENS, Lindsay John
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/38/430 Commonwealth War Graves records
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HF 168
ATTD 172 SQN RAF
Summary:
Wellington HF168 of 172 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Chivenor, Barnstaple, North
Devon, at 1945 hours on 19 February 1944 to carry out a night navigation exercise, and
practice descents from 1000 feet to 50 feet at intervals along the track making use of the
Leigh Light for attacks on flame floats. The aircraft was fitted with a radio altimeter.
Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RCAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RCAF
PO Meech, L R J Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Poore, E F 2nd Pilot)
9037 Flt Sgt Stephens, L J (Navigator Bombaimer)
Flt Sgt Torcher, J W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Richardson, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Cohen, B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea. Their names are
commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.
319
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
429247 Flight Sergeant STEPHENS, William Arthur
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/718
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
PB 412
UM – Z2
626 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster PB 412 of 626 Sqn RAF took off from Raf Station Wickenby, Lincoln, at 1716
hours on 4 October 1944, on a mine laying operation in enemy waters in the
“Silverthorn” area. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return
to base.
Crew:
RNZAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
FO Green, G A Captain (Pilot)
429247 Flt Sgt Stephens, W A (Navigator)
FO Taylor, K E F (Air Bomber)
423079 Flt Sgt Dickson, W A (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Farley, C F (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Norman, W (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Cohen, L (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded that the missing crew
had lost their lives at sea.
320
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404418 Sergeant STEPHENSON, Robert Worrall
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/163/242
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
X 9677
218 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington X 9677 of No 218 (Gold Coast) Sqn RAF was returning from an operational
mission on 11 October 1941, when due to a petrol shortage it was force landed into the
sea near St Albans Head, Hampshire.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
404428 Sgt Bensted, L M
404549 Sgt Honeyman
402387 Sgt McLean, A M
404418 Sgt Stephenson, R W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Pugh, J B
Sgt Ireland, E W
Sgts Bensted, Honeyman and McLean were all slightly injured, but Sgt Stephenson
drowned.
321
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
422312 Flight Sergeant STEVENS, Baden Henry
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/38/399 Commonwealth War Graves records
W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses of thye Second World War, Page 37,
Volume 1944.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
HR 946
KN – X
77 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Halifax HR 946 of 77 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Elvington, near York, at 1637
hours on the 20/21st January 1944 to bomb Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft
after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
Flt Lt Surplice, V H DFC Captain (Pilot)
Sgt L Ashton, (2nd Pilot) (attached from 663 Com Unit)
Sgt A A Timson, (Flight Engineer)
Sgt J L Duffy, DFM (Navigator)
Sgt H P Hopkins, (Air Bomber)
Sgt T King, DFM (Wireless Operator)
Sgt K Emeny (Air Gunner)
422312 Flt Sgt Stevens, B H (Rear Gunner)
Sgt Duffy (RAF) who became a POW, later stated that the Germans had told him that all
the remaining members of the crew had lost their lives. Following post war searches and
enquiries it was recorded that the seven missing crew members had no known grave.
Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey,
UK.
322
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
409330 Warrant Officer STEVENSON, Clement Robert
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/515
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Spitfire
MJ 483
43 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Spitfire MJ 483 of No 43 (China-British) Sqn RAF was airborne at 1208 hours on 4th
May 1944 to travel from Lago to Nettuno, Italy, a distance of about 60 miles including a
short distance over the sea. The aircraft failed to arrive at its destination. Searches failed
to find any trace of the missing aircraft or pilot.
Crew:
RAAF
409330 WO Stevenson, C R (Pilot)
It was recorded in 1948 that the missing pilot had no known grave.
323
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407083 Warrant Officer STEVENSON, Noel Lindsay
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/163/353
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
Z 7803
11 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim Z 7803 of 11 Sqn RAF, Indian Command, was detailed on 9 April 1942 along
with other Blenheim aircraft to bomb elements of the Japanese fleet operating in the
Trincomalee area Ceylon. Enemy fighters were encountered, and Z 7803 failed to return
to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
407083 WO Stevenson, N L (Pilot)
FO Donald, A W (Observer)
Sgt Bell, J O W (Air Gunner)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
324
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
412744 Sergeant STOCKBRIDGE, Howard Sydney
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/66
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
DV 914
20 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington DV 914 of No 20 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off on 12 March 1943
on an operational training flight between the Mull of Kintyre and Scarpa Island, West
Scotland. The route was Base – Tiree – Mull of Kintyre – Scarpa – Base. No signals were
received from the aircraft and it failed to return to base from the exercise.
An aircraft was seen by ASR launches exercising in the vicinity of the Island of Tiree to
spin into the sea from a height of 10000 feet. It was also separately reported that an RAF
Corporal and a civilian had seen an aircraft crash into the sea off the West coast of
Scotland and this was considered by the unit to be DV 914.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
Sgt Morris, G E (Pilot)
414371 Sgt Wright, S R (Navigator)
414548 Sgt Fitzerald, P J (2nd Navigator)
420978 Sgt McDonagh, J H (Bombaimer)
Sgt Robinson, T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
412744 Sgt Stockbridge, H S (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
325
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405656 Flight Sergeant STONE, John Maynard
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/124
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hurricane
KX 107
Royal Air Force Stn Maison Blanche
Summary:
Hurricane KX 107 took off at 1300 hours on 25 April 1943 from RAF Maison Blanche
for Goubrine, Tunisia, on a press courier service carrying despatches. The aircraft arrived
at Euston Souk El-Khemis on 26 April. The aircraft left Euston presumably to return to
Maison Blanche at 1245 hours on 27 April 1943, but it failed to arrive at its destination.
Maison Blanche is about 10 miles ESE of Algiers, and Goubrine 30 miles south east of
Kairwan in Tunisia. Euston is 15 miles south of Beja, Tunisia.
Crew:
RAAF
405656 Flt Sgt Stone, J M (Pilot)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
pilot had no known grave.
326
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400070 Flight Sergeant STONE, Wilfrid
Source:
NAA : A9301, Barcode 5549069
AWM 65 (4872)
Whitley
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
58 Sqn RAF
Unit:
Summary:
A Whitley aircraft of No 58 Sqn RAF based at St Eval with a detachment at Wick,
Scotland, was reported missing on an operational mission in the Bay of Biscay on 10 July
1942.
Crew:
RAAF
400070 Flt Sgt Stone, W (Observer)
No other crew details are available on above file.
327
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407563 Warrant Officer STOTT, William
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/301
AWM 65 (4883)
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Liberator
FK 923
120 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Liberator FK 923 of 120 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Reykjavik on an anti sub patrol
over an Atlantic convoy, on 4 October 1943. At 1130 am a signal from the aircraft was
received stating ‘about to carry out an attack’. The signal faded and nothing further was
heard from the aircraft which did not return to base. It was considered that the aircraft
may have been shot down by flak. Searches were carried out the next day and aircraft
were warned to keep a lookout, but no trace of the missing aircraft or crew were found.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RCAF
Wg Cdr Longmore, R M OBE, Captain (Pilot)
FO Tait, R W
Flt Lt Bruce
Flt Sgt Parsons
Flt Sgt Furr
407563 WO Stott, W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
406306 WO Mincham, E A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
PO Webber
It was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
328
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
421767 Flight Sergeant STYLES, William Thomas Collins
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/360
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Oxford
W 6637
3 (P) Advanced Flying RAF
Summary:
Oxford W 6637 of 3 (P) Advanced Flying RAF was detailed for local flying on the
afternoon of 3 December 1943. The aircraft took off from RAF Station South Cerney,
Cirencester, Gloucester, at 1455 hours. FO Perry was the instructor with Sgt Styles the
pupil pilot. The aircraft failed to return to base.
The aircraft was without IFF and RT when flying in the doubtful weather on 3 December.
There was a rapid deterioration in the weather after take off although another instructor
succeeded in landing at South Cerney an hour and 25 minutes after FO Perry took off
from Southrop. A series of Observer Corps plots were received extending from
Worcester area at 1807 hours and the Chepstow Filton area at 1839hrs.
No trace of W 6637 or of the crew could be found, it being considered that the aircraft
must have crashed either in the Bristol Channel or the Welsh Hills.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
414508 FO Perry, L C (Instructor Pilot)
421767 Sgt Styles, W T C (Pupil Pilot)
329
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402891 Flight Sergeant SULLIVAN, John Bernard
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/51
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Baltimore
AG 796
69 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Baltimore AG 796 of 69 Sqn RAF Malta, took off at 1025 hours on 23 February 1943 on
an operational reconnaissance. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it
did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
Flt Sgt Oldrieve, F R (Pilot)
FO Heywood, R A (Observer)
403686 Flt Sgt Chandler, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
402891 Flt Sgt Sullivan, J B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
330
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400359 Sergeant SULLIVAN, Maurice Anthony GM
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/164/81
AWM, G H File RAAF 1. (London Gazette of 24/3/1942 Page 1327 refers)
Stirling
Aircraft Type:
N 3680
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
7 Sqn RAF
Unit:
Summary:
Stirling N3680 of 7 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Oakington at 0940 hours on 18
December 1941 detailed to attack Brest. The aircraft which was last seen over the target,
failed to return to base. It was believed that it was shot down by ME 109’s over the
French coast.
Crew:
RAF
Flt Lt Parnell, B MID Captain (Pilot)
RNZAF Sgt Taylor, K R
RAF
Sgt Pulford, J H M
RCAF
PO Dorban, H F
RAF
Flt Sgt Wheatley, R
RAF
Flt Sgt Wright, T P
RAAF
400359 Sgt Sullivan, M A GM (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
On the 18th November 1941 Sgt Sullivan was rear gunner in a Stirling aircraft detailed to
attack Brest in France. The aircraft NG087 took off from RAF Station Oakington,
Cambridgeshire at 1458 hours, and on the return trip from the target the port outer engine
caught fire, and the pilot Flt Lt J T O’Brien (RAF) decided to make an emergency
landing. The aircraft flew into telegraph wires and crashed at West Bluntisham, 12 miles
north west of Cambridge. UK. The Citation itself now takes up the story.
Citation GM : “Sgt M A Sullivan (RAAF) was awarded the George Medal for
gallantry of the highest order when the aircraft he was rear gunner in crashed and burst
into flames in November 1941. Sgt Sullivan got out of his rear turret and finding no
other crew member clear of the crash, he clambered along the blazing wing and despite
having a burnt hand, continued into the fuselage to rescue other members of the crew.
With the assistance of two soldiers who had since arrived on the scene he was able to
remove to safety a member of the crew who had a broken leg. He returned to the crash
and again entering the fuselage succeeded, with the assistance of one of the soldiers in
removing another member of the crew who also had a broken leg. Despite the growing
intensity of the fire he entered the fuselage for a third time to make sure that no other
331
member of the crew was present. He noticed through the tangled wreckage that one of the
soldiers was working frantically to extricate the navigator who had been trapped in the
forward part of the compartment. He therefore ran around to assist him and together they
succeeded in removing the navigator who had serious head injuries. He then helped the
soldiers remove the remaining three members of the crew and as soon as these had been
extricated there was a violent explosion from a bomb. Sergeant Sullivan showed the
highest degree of gallantry throughout and his example was undoubtedly a source of
inspiration to the other rescuers.”
His brother 409250 Sgt L G Sullivan RAAF, was awarded the DFM on 30 November
1943 (London Gazette Page 5243). At the time he was a pilot attached to 150 Sqn RAF
based in North Africa and flying Wellingtons On 10 January 1945 the then Flt Lot L G
Sullivan lost his life when flying a Mosquito NS891 from RAF Station Fersfield in
Norfolk UK on a low level cross country exercise. His navigator FO D E Ball (RAAF)
DFC was also killed in the accident.
332
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404465 Sergeant SUMMERVILLE, Kent Oswald Thompson
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/164/135
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
R 5902
VN – T
50 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster R 5902 of 50 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Swinderby, Lincolnshire, at 1805
hours on the night of 12 October 1942, to attack Wismar, Germany. Nothing was heard
from the aircraft after take off, and it failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Sgt Rawlins, M H Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Hacker, R A W (Flight Engineer)
402528 Sgt McKerrow, T (Navigator)
404465 Sgt Summerville, K O T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Dabbs, A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Dacey, F V (Air Gunner)
Sgt Parker, S H (Air Gunner)
In a later statement by Sgt McKerrow (RAAF) who became a POW, he reported that “he
had no information re. the fate of the six other crew members other than the body of Sgt
Hacker had been washed up in Lubeck Bay in November 1942, and that to the best of his
knowledge all other members were killed. After the plane was hit it went into a tight spin,
with the pilot trying to pull it out. The inter com was U/S and he put on his chute and was
bending down for the chutes of the pilot and engineer, when there was as explosion.
He blacked out, and can’t remember anything more until he came to falling in the air. He
pulled the rip cord, landed in the sea, and a German launch picked him up. A search of
the area failed to find any other survivors. He believed the aircraft had blown up.”
It was later established that the aircraft had crashed in Lubeck Bay at 9.45pm on 12th
October, some 10 miles from the east coast and approx 34 miles south east of Kiel and
Lubeck. The body of Sgt Hacker is buried in Hamburg Cemetery, Ohlsdorf, while the
other missing crew members have no known grave.
333
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403769 Leading Aircraftman SUTTON, Bede Bernard
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/164/85
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Anson
1 Air Observers School RCAF
Summary:
An Anson of No 1 Air Observers School RCAF departed St John’s Quebec at 1800 hours
on 8 January 1942, on a routine night training flight to Malton a distance of 323 miles,
and then return. The aircraft reported from Montreal as setting course for Malton but it
failed to reach its destination.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RCAF
Mr Rutherdord, C B (Staff Pilot Civilian)
411569 LAC Witts, J (Trainee Air Observer)
403769 LAC Sutton, B B (Trainee Air Observer)
LAC Morgan, A M (Trainee)
In subsequent searches an aircraft fuselage was located on the shore of Lake Ontario near
Watertown, New York, but was not identified. No trace of any survivors was found.
334
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
416627 Warrant Officer SWAN, Clive Symes
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/474
Liberator
Aircraft Type:
BZ 978
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
159 Sqn RAF
Unit:
Summary:
Liberator BZ 978 of 159 Sqn RAF took off on 5 October 1944 together with 15 other
aircraft, on a low level attack on the Bangkok – Lampang railway line from Uttardit to
Bhanpajii. Locomotives were the primary target with opportunity targets along the
railway line secondary.
An SOS was received from BZ 978, and another 35 minutes later saying “Trying
Chittagong, two engines U/s, height 5000 feet, air speed 140 mph.” twenty four minutes
later another message was received “ unable to receive due to heavy interference”.
Eleven minutes later a final message to Base Control said “attacked by two enemy
fighters over target, one dead and two wounded” This was the last message received from
the aircraft which did not return to base.
ASR and air searches were carried out over the area the aircraft was thought to have
ditched. These reported on the night of 6/7th October that flashing lights and pyrotechnics
were seen in position 18.30N, 92.50E. No dinghy was seen.
On 7 October a dinghy was seen in position 18.55N, 92.22E.
On 9 October a dinghy was again sighted, but there was doubt whether this was the unit’s
dinghy. Nothing further was seen of the crew or dinghy.
Crew:
RAF
WO McKinnon, J Captain (Pilot)
RAF
Flt Sgt Roper, L J (2nd Pilot)
RAAF
416627 WO Swan, C S (Navigator)
RAAF
420172 WO Ford, E P Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
RAF
Sgt Hill, F E
RAAF
423854 Flt Sgt Nelson, J A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
RAF
Flt Sgt Paterson, W N (Air Gunner)
RCAF
Flt Sgt Richardson, H F (Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Richardson (RAF) reached the shore in a dinghy, but subsequently died in
Rangoon jail on 28 October 1944. Flt Sgt Roper and Sgt Hill (RAF) successfully reached
shore in a dinghy, survived and returned to the UK safe. It was established that WO Ford
(RAAF) was killed in the air by gun fire from enemy aircraft, and his body was not
recovered. Also the four other missing crew members were not seen to leave the aircraft
after ditching and their bodies were not recovered.
335
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
421867 Flight Sergeant SWANBURY, William George
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/486
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Liberator
BZ 913
547 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Liberator BZ 913 of 547 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station St Eval, Wadebridge,
Cornwall, at 0602 hours on 12 April 1944 on an anti-sub patrol in the Bay of Biscay.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
421867 Flt Sgt E.G.Swanbury, Pilot.
410579 Flt Sgt K.W.Webb, Navigtator Bombaimer
417634 Flt Sgt M.R.Goldney, Navigator Bombaimer.
421846 Flt Sgt K.R.Foster, Wireless Operator Air.
422141 Flt Sgt E.Daniels, Wireless Operator Air.
Flt Sgt Sutton.
Sgt Wood.
Sgt Crosbie.
FO Ryer.
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
336
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
427959 Flight Sergeant SWEENEY, Francis Raymond
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/18/367 Commonwealth War Graves records
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
LP 120
ATTD 40 SQN RAF
Summary:
Wellington LP 120 of 40 Sqn RAF, Central Mediterranean Force, took off at 2141 hours
on the night of 2nd June 1944 from Foggia, Italy, to attack Giurgiu, Romania. The aircraft
failed to return to base after the mission.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
415462 Flt Sgt F R Hughes, Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt K Shaw, (Navigator)
Sgt W E Samler, (Wireless Operator Air)
Flt Sgt A S Millar, (Air Bomber)
427959 Flt Sgt F R Sweeney, (Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Shaw who survived the crash later reported “ the aircraft crashed approx 15 miles
south of Pirot in Yugoslavia. The aircraft was at 13000 feet when the pilot requested a
course to base and when turning there was an explosion and both engines failed. The
order to bale out was given and that he and both Sgt Millar and Flt Sgt Sweeney left the
aircraft. At the time both Samler and Hughes were still in the aircraft. Hughes was
uninjured and the aircraft was under control. The aircraft was over rough country 40
miles west of Sofia. Shaw saw 2 parachutes on the ground next morning and assumed
they belonged to both Sweeney and Millar.”
The other four members of the crew have no known grave and their names are
commemorated on the Malta Memorial. The Memorial is situated in the area of Floriana
and is easily identified by the Golden Eagle which surmounts the column. It stands
outside the entrance to Valletta.
337
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
424572 Warrant Officer SYMONDS, Leslie James
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/857
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
ND 728
PG – N
619 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster ND 728 of 619 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Strubby, Alford
Lincolnshire, at 0122 hours on 5 January 1945 to attack Royan, France. Nothing further
was heard of the aircraft or crew after take off.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
417746 FO Gray, D, Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Johnson, A (Flight Engineer)
Flt Sgt Morley, E A (Navigator)
Flt Sgt Insley, H (Air Bomber)
424572 WO Symonds, L F (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
Sgt Brown, R (Mid upper gunner)
Sgt Bartholomew, W B (Rear gunner)
In 1948 it was established that Sgt Bartholomew was washed ashore on the French coast
and buried at Soulac des Olives Communal cemetery, France, which is located six miles
south of the mouth of the Gironde River. It was also recorded that the remaining six crew
members were lost at sea.
338
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400442 Sergeant SYNNOT, James Murray
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/38/53
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
R 1162
27 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington R 1162 of No 27 Operational Training Unit, RAF, took off shortly before
midnight on 25 June 11942, on a night operation against Bremen, Germany. Nothing was
heard from the aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base. Other crews reported
that the aircraft was possibly shot down over the target.
Crew:
RCAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
PO Lamb, T F Captain (Pilot)
405174 Sgt Cox, N H (Observer)
403940 Sgt Mathers. J B (Observer)
403786 Sgt Poynting, K H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
400442 Sgt Synnot, J M (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
339
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
12414 Sergeant DAWSON, Peter Hamilton
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/100/252
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hudson
AM 676
1 (C) Op Training RAF
Summary:
Hudson AM 676 on No 1 (C) Operational Training Unit, took off from RAF Silloth,
Scotland, on 25 August 1942 on a bombing range exercise. At 1610 hours a message was
received from the aircraft confirming that the bombs had been dropped. Soon after at
1620 hours it was reported that an aircraft had crashed in the sea beyond the bombing
range into the Solway Firth. ASR searches recovered the bodies of three RCAF crew
members, and the tunic of Sgt Dawson (RAAF) was recovered.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RCAF
RCAF
RCAF
12414 Sgt Dawson, P H (Pilot)
Sgt Cowie, A
Sgt McMillan, K R
Sgt Randall, C L
Sgt McKenzie, R D
Sgts McMillan and Randall are buried in the Annan Cemetery on the north coast of
Solway Firth, and Sgt McKenzie at Silloth Cemetery on the south coast of Solway Firth.
Both Sgt Dawson (RAAF) and Sgt Cowie (RAF) are listed as missing and had lost their
lives at sea.
340
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402010 Sergeant TARANTO, Thomas
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/165/63
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
Z 8330
148 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington Z 8330 of 148 Sqn RAF took off on the night of 28th/29 October 1941 on a
routine patrol over the Eastern Mediterranean. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after
take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
402010 Sgt Taranto T Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Warner, D H (2nd Pilot)
PO Elliot, D MJ (Observer)
Sgt Ray, S C (Wireless Operator)
Sgt Gonley, D F (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Bramwell, D (Air Gunner)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea
341
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
437369 Flight Sergeant TARRANT, Cecil James
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/39/513
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
RF 145
CF – Z
625 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster RF 145 of 625 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Kelstern, near Louth,
Lincolnshire on 16 March 1945 to attack the target Nurnberg, Germany. Nothing further
was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
424322 FO Rolls, P M, Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Jones, D B (Pilot/Engineer)
436573 Flt Sgt Ryan, T M (Air Bomber)
433648 Flt Sgt Rhodes, R C (Navigator)
435192 Flt Sgt Teague, T W (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
437369 Flt Sgt Tarrant, C J (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Clark, G A (Rear Gunner)
In a later statement by Flt Sgt Ryan (RAAF) who became a POW he reported “I assume
the other 6 members of the crew were in the aircraft when I baled out. I have no definite
information regarding their probable fate. I saw no parachutes nor did I receive any
information regarding these men after my descent. Approx 5 minutes before reaching the
target, the aircraft was hit by a night fighter. The aircraft burst into flames somewhere aft
of my compartment. The Captain ordered bale out and I baled out at 16,000 feet. The
aircraft appeared under control but evidently badly in flames. Assuming that the aircraft
crashed soon after my leaving, that would be 5 minutes before Nurnberg. We were on a
north east heading and carrying a full bomb load when hit, and there may have been a
mid-air explosion.”
Following post war enquiries and investigations, the remains of Sgt Jones (RAF) were
identified as that which fell at Burglein on the night of 16 March 45, and were interred at
Durnbach War Cemetery, Germany. Burglein is approx 14 miles south west of Nurnbach.
No trace of the aircraft or of other members of the crew was found, and in 1949 it was
recorded that the missing members have no known grave.
342
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
19183 Flight Sergeant EVANS, Thomas
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/112/173
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
WD 639
1667 Conversion Aircrew School RAF
Summary:
Lancaster WD 639 of 1667 Conversion Aircrew School, RAF took off from RAF
Sandtoft, near Doncaster, Yorkshire, at 0258 hours on the morning of 5 April 1945, to
carry out a non operational training flight. The aircraft dived into the ground in a field
about three quarters of a mile from Crowle, Lincolnshire.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
434588 PO Grayson, J E Captain (Pilot)
437422 Flt Sgt Kilsby, M B (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
434240 Flt Sgt Castor, E J (Air Bomber)
432937 Flt Sgt Bennett, W S Wireless Operator Air)
429952 Flt Sgt Hayes, D L (Mid Upper Gunner)
19183 Flt Sgt Evans, T (Rear Gunner)
Sgt Crawhall, (Flight Engineer)
A major portion of the aircraft was buried in soft earth, and after five bodies were
recovered, digging was suspended owing to a crater falling in. The bodies of Flt Sgt
Hayes (RAAF) and Flt Sgt Evans (RAAF) were not recovered, and their names are
recorded on a Special Memorial at RAF Cemetery, Yorkshire.
343
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402417 Flight Sergeant TAYLOR, Archie William
Source:
NAA : A9301, Barcode 5538569
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Beaufighter
236 Sqn RAF
Summary:
A Beaufighter aircraft of No 236 Sqn RAF based at RAF Wattisham, was reported
missing on air operations over the English Channel, on 28 March 1942.
Crew:
RAAF
402417 Flt Sgt Taylor, A W (Pilot)
Detail of the other crew member are not recorded on the above file.
344
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
408788 Flight Sergeant TAYLOR, Roy John
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/39/114
AWM 65 (4991)
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HZ 351
547 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HZ 351 of 547 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Davidston Moore,
Camelford, Cornwall, at 1410 hours on 15 August 1943 to carry out an operational sortie
in the Bay of Biscay. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not
return to base. The enemy claimed to have destroyed four British aircraft in the area that
day, but it is not known if it included HZ 351.
Crew:
RNZAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
PO White, J Captain (Pilot)
PO Blunt, J (2nd Pilot)
PO Fisher, (Navigator)
12168 WO Bathurst, A L (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
408784 Flt Sgt Simpson,, L G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
408788 Flt Sgt Taylor, R J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
345
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
434558 Flight Sergeant TAYLOR, William Irving
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/39/240
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
ND 695
630 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster ND 695 of 630 Sqn RAF took off from East Kirkby airfield near Spilsby,
Lincolnshire, at 2238 hours on 22 May 1944 to attack a target at Brunswick, Germany.
Nothing further was heard of the aircraft or crew.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
414903 PO Brown, V W, Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Haig, D B (Flight Engineer)
415187 WO Sinclair, K A (Navigator)
Sgt Connor, T W (Air Bomber)
Sgt Saxby, W J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
Sgt Binne, J (Air Gunner)
434558 Flt Sgt Taylor, W I (Air Gunner)
346
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
435192 Flight Sergeant TEAGUE, John William
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/39/514
Lancaster
Aircraft Type:
RF
145
Serial number:
CF – Z
Radio call sign:
625 Sqn RAF
Unit:
Summary:
Lancaster RF 145 of 625 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Kelstern, near Louth,
Lincolnshire on 16 March 1945 to attack the target Nurnberg, Germany. Nothing further
was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
424322 FO Rolls, P M, Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Jones, D B (Pilot/Engineer)
436573 Flt Sgt Ryan, T M (Air Bomber)
433648 Flt Sgt Rhodes, R C (Navigator)
435192 Flt Sgt Teague, T W (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
437369 Flt Sgt Tarrant, C J (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Clark, G A (Rear Gunner)
In a later statement by Flt Sgt Ryan (RAAF) who became a POW he reported “I assume
the other 6 members of the crew were in the aircraft when I baled out. I have no definite
information regarding their probable fate. I saw no parachutes nor did I receive any
information regarding these men after my descent. Approx 5 minutes before reaching the
target, the aircraft was hit by a night fighter. The aircraft burst into flames somewhere aft
of my compartment. The Captain ordered bale out and I baled out at 16,000 feet. The
aircraft appeared under control but evidently badly in flames. Assuming that the aircraft
crashed soon after my leaving, that would be 5 minutes before Nurnberg. We were on a
north east heading and carrying a full bomb load when hit, and there may have been a
mid-air explosion.”
Following post war enquiries and investigations, the remains of Sgt Jones (RAF) were
identified as that which fell at Burglein on the night of 16 March 45, and were interred at
Durnbach War Cemetery, Germany. Burglein is approx 14 miles south west of Nurnbach.
No trace of the aircraft or of other members of the crew was found, and in 1949 it was
recorded that the missing members have no known grave.
347
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
437884 Flight Sergeant TELFORD, Angus Reginald
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/39/373
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
MF 698
30 Operational Trg RAF
Summary:
Wellington MF 698 of 30 Operational Training Unit RAF took off from RAF Seighfo
satellite drome at 0300 hours on 12 October 1944, on a night cross country exercise.
Approx 30 minutes after take off the first position report was received from the aircraft,
but after that nothing was heard and MF 698 did not return to base. The route of the
exercise was over the Cardigan Bay area.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
427966 PO White, D.G., Pilot.
426094 WO J.R.Gibson, Navigator.
419758 Sgt R.G.Kingsley, Air Bomber
437884 Flt Sgt A.R.Telford, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
433034 Flt Sgt W.M.Schafer, Air Gunner.
Sgt N.Glasper, A/c.
FO Woodley, W., Flying Instructor.
FO Pegrum, A., Flying Instructor.
In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
348
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404698 Flight Sergeant THOMAS, Thomas Naunton
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/166/267
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
DV 520
148 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington DV 520 of 148 Sqn RAF, Middle East, took off at 2010 hours on the night of
27/28th September 1942 to bomb harbour installations at Tobruk Harbour. Nothing was
heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. The bomb load carried
was 3 x 250lb GP and 36 x 40lb GP bombs.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Sgt Beale, N G Captain (Pilot)
404698 Flt Sgt Thomas, T N (2nd Pilot)
Flt Sgt Williams, R J (Observer)
Sgt Weir, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Noble, J (Front Gunner)
Sgt Moir, J M S (Rear Gunner)
Following post war searches and enquiries it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew
had lost their lives at sea.
349
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
401199 Sergeant THOMPSON, Arthur Alan
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/166/188
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Whitley
P 5083
3 (C) Op Trg RAF
Summary:
Whitley P 5083 of No 3 Operational Training Unit RAF, was detailed on 9 March 1942,
along with 4 other aircraft to carry out a navigational training exercise over the sea, to a
position in the North Sea 300 miles east of Brora on the east coast of Scotland.
P5083 took off at 1045 hours from RAF Cranwell which is 13 miles south east of
Lincoln, and a message was received from the aircraft at 1237 hours. At about 1600
hours the weather at RAF Cranwell deteriorated, and P5083 could not be contacted by
base. The other aircraft returned to base independently between 1700 and 1730 hours.
Crew:
RAF
RCAF
RAAF
RCAF
RCAF
PO Gill, F C Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Mosey, J W (2nd Pilot)
401199 Sgt Thompson, A A (Observer)
Sgt Anger, F H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Galloway, A J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
350
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
401864 Flight Sergeant THOMPSON, Harold Classen
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/166/262
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
BJ 776
12 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington BJ 776 of 12 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Wickenby, at 7.30pm on
26 September 1942 to carry out a sea mining mission in German territorial waters in the
Kiel Bay area. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to
base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
402989 FO Ward, J S, Captain (Pilot)
401864 Sgt Thompson, H C (Navigator)
411320 Sgt Harden, J B (Air Bomber)
403375 Sgt Rich, A C (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
406812 Sgt Mitchell, P R (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
351
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403437 Flight Sergeant THOMPSON, Jack Irvine
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/166/239
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Marauder
FK 150
14 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Marauder FK 150 of 14 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Shallufa at 1045 hours on 15
February 1943 together with Marauder FK 142 to carry out an offensive sweep with
torpedo’s in the Aegean Sea. No message was received from FK 150 after take off and it
did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RNZAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
402766 PO Truman, C C, Captain (Pilot)
403437 Flt Sgt Thompson, J I (2nd Pilot)
FO Connell, B T (Navigator)
407363 Flt Sgt Hope, R E H (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
Sgt Firth, K (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
Sgt Semple, W J (Air Gunner)
Marauder FK 142 subsequently made a forced landing in Turkey, and the crew were
interned in Ankara. They were later released and rejoined the Squadron. In a statement
made by this crew they reported that “they last saw FK 150 in the Euboean Sea heading
north east about 1600 hours and it did not appear to be in trouble. FK 150 was in
W/T/communication with the accompanying aircraft until 1630 hours, and then nothing
further was heard.”
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
352
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404044 Flight Sergeant THOMSON, John Lidsay Matthews
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/166/298
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
AD 637
148 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington AD 637 of 148 Sqn RAF was detailed to attack enemy stores in Benghazi
Harbour on the night of 13/14th November 1942. Nothing was heard from the aircraft
after it took off at 1933 hours, and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAF
400638 PO Sharpe, W G (Pilot)
PO Davidson, I G E (Pilot)
Sgt Jones, J M (Observer)
Sgt Lane (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
404044 Flt Sgt Thomson, J L M (Air Gunner)
Sgt Swift (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
353
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
410107 Flight Sergeant THORNTON, Lewis
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/39/217
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hudson
FK 804
608 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Hudson F|K 804 of 608 Sqn RAF took off on from Gaudo (Salerno Bay) at 1420 hours
on the 27th January 1944 to carry out an anti sub patrol south east of the bridgehead
south of Rome. The weather was fine and the visibility 10/15 miles.
The aircraft was due back at 2030 hours, but wireless silence was maintained until 2020
hours when a bearing from Malta was requested. This was passed and acknowledged at
2025 hours. Then a distress call was received at 2043 hours and the aircraft received
several first class bearings from Malta between 2043 and 2100 hours. After this the
aircraft transmitted “may be forced to land engine trouble”, with a final SOS being sent at
2110 hours. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft and it failed to return to base.
The bearings indicated that FK 804 had force landed near the western tip of Sicily. ASR
searches did not locate the missing aircraft or crew.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RCAF
RAF
Sgt Cox, R G (Pilot)
410107 Flt Sgt Thornton, L (Navigator Bombaimer)
WO Ferris, W K (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Trasler, J R (Wireless Operator Air)
Post war searches established that Sgt Cox (RAF) had been buried in the Catania British
Cemetery. The body of WO Ferris was washed ashore at Sidi Barrani in June 1944 and
was buried in an isolated grave. It was recorded that the two missing crew members had
lost their lives at sea.
354
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
414102 Sergeant THUREGHT, Norman Ray
Source:
NAA : A9301 Bar Code 5540696
No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
W 4894
GT - T
156 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster W4894 of 156 Sqn RAF of RAF Station Wyton, Huntingdon, took off from
Warboys drome at 1948 hours on 3 April 1943 to attack Essen, Germany. Nothing was
heard from the aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RCAF
RAF
416410 Flt Sgt Byass, R A Captain (Pilot)
409519 FO Black, G J (Navigator)
414102 Sgt Thurecht, N R (Bombaimer)
415000 Sgt Trigwell, R S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Minns, G R (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Robertson, D L (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Crooks, S E (Rear Gunner)
Sgt Crooks body was washed ashore on 8 November 1943 at Oosterland, Wieringen,
Holland and is buried at the Military cemetery, Helder. In 1947 it was recorded that the
remaining missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.
In the 1990’s wreckage of the aircraft was found in the Waddenzee and it is believed the
aircraft was shot down by a German night fighter east of Texel Island, Holland.
355
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
417014 Flight Sergeant THYER, Leon John
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/39/221
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
LN 515
150 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington LN 515 of 150 Sqn RAF, Central Mediterranean Forces, took off at 1717
hours on 23 January 1944 to bomb an aircraft factory at Maribor, north west Yugoslavia.
The aircraft failed to return from this mission. Severe icing conditions were experienced
by other aircraft on the same mission.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
417014 Flt Sgt Thyer, L J Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Walters, M F R (Navigator)
Sgt Cane, E G (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Williams, R (Air Bomber)
428729 Flt Sgt Marketo, M P (Air Gunner)
Following post war investigations and enquiries, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
356
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
401162 Sergeant TIPPETT, Arthur James
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/167/50
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hampden
N 9106
415 RCAF Sqn
Summary:
Hampden N 9106 of 415 (Swordfish) Sqn RCAF, took off at 0100 hours on 21st
November 1942 to carry out a night torpedo attack. The weather was adverse with low
cloud. A W/T message was received from the aircraft at 7hours 35 minutes after take off
when the aircraft was near the limit of its endurance, but the aircraft could not be
contacted again nor a bearing or fix obtained. The aircraft was new and in excellent
condition.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RNZAF
RNZAF
401162 Sgt Tippett, A J (Pilot)
PO Lynn, J (Observer)
Sgt Sleep, R T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Millar, D I G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
The bodies of PO Lynch, Sgt Sleep and Sgt Millar were washed ashore in the vicinity of
Wissant on the French coast 8 miles south west of Calais. They are interred in the Pihen
Les Guines New British Cemetery 8 miles east of Wissant.
In 1949 it was recorded that Sgt Tippett had lost his life at sea.
357
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402758 Warrant Officer TOOHEY, Brian Aloysius
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/168/132
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
100 Sqn RAF
Summary:
WO Toohey (RAAF) an Observer of No 100 Sqn RAF who was listed as missing in the
Far East, was mentioned as a POW in a Japanese broadcast from Batavia, Java. He lost
his life when a Japanese transport carrying POW’s to Japan, was sunk 60 miles from
Nagasaki, Japan, at approx 1155 pm on 24 June 1944.
358
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404786 Sergeant TOOHILL, Noel Messines
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/168/110 Commonwealth War Graves records
W R Chorley: RAF Bomber Command Losses of the Second World War, Page 17,
Volume 1942.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Manchester
L 7322
EM – Q
ATTD 207 SQN RAF
Summary:
Manchester L 7322 of 207 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Bottesford, Nottingham
at 0359 hours on 9 January 1942, in company with other aircraft to attack the Scharnhorst
and Gneissnau at Brest. L 7322 carried 4 x 2000 lb A P bombs. Other aircraft on the
mission reported that the weather and visibility en route was poor, and over the target
there was 8-10/10ths cloud and a half moon. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after
take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
PO Bayley, G R Captain (Pilot)
404786 Sgt Toohill, N M (2nd Pilot)
Sgt Harris, A G (Observer)
Flt Sgt Jones, J E DFM (1st Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Griffiths, R V (2nd Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
407806 Sgt Seymour, W E (Air Gunner)
406450 Sgt Goldie, P C H (Air Gunner)
Post war enquiries and investigations established that the aircraft crashed in the sea near
Crozon (Finistere), France, at approx 6am on 9 January 1942. There were no survivors.
The bodies of PO Bayley (RAF), Sgt Seymour and Sgt Goldie (RAAF) were washed
ashore and are interred in the Crozon Local Cemetery, France.
In 1948 it was recorded that the remaining missing crew members lost their lives at sea.
Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK.
359
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
413287 Sergeant TORRENS, Arthur Williams
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/40/56
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Mitchell
CFR 382
111 Op Training RCAF
Summary:
Mitchell CFR 382 of No 111 Operational Training Unit, RCAF, took off at 1445 hours
on 28 June 1943, to carry out an operational air exercise at sea in the vicinity of Nassau,
Bahamas. Wireless communication ceased at 1515 hours and the aircraft failed to return
to base from the exercise.
In later searches an empty dinghy and an oleo leg from the aircraft were recovered from
the sea in position 25.09N, 77.53W, but no trace of any survivors was found.
Crew:
RCAF
RAAF
RAAF
RCAF
RCAF
RCAF
RAF
PO Stinson, W L Captain (Pilot)
413287 Sgt Torrens, A W (2nd Pilot)
421283 Sgt Keayes, J B (Navigator – Pupil)
Sgt Wallace, T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner – Pupil)
Sgt Orgen, C E (Wireless Operator Air Gunner – Pupil)
Sgt Beaultie, A J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner – Pupil)
Sgt Smart, C L (Wireless Operator Air Gunner – Pupil)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
360
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
29856 Warrant Officer TOVEY, Brian Douglas
Source:
NAA : A9301, Barcode 4426645
No RAAF Casualty file if held by Archives
See A705, 166/38/956
Stirling
Aircraft Type:
LK 272
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
138 Sqn RAF
Unit:
Summary:
Stirling LK 272 of 138 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Tempsford, near Sandy,
Bedfordshire, at 1939 hours on 26 February 1945, together with other Squadron aircraft
on a special mission to drop containers at a point in Norway, 3kms north of Flintiseter
and 23kms south east of Torpe. Nothing was heard from LK 272 after take off and it did
not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Lt Cornwallis, Captain (Pilot)
PO Pepworth, S A (Navigator)
422817 FO Stanton, J E (Air Bomber)
29856 WO Tovey, B D (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Hagarty, S S (Air Gunner)
Sgt Cory (Air Gunner)
FO Cornall, L J, DFC (Flight Engineer)
Following post war enquiries and investigations it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
361
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
406964 Sergeant TOWNSEND, Charles Richard
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/40/16
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HZ 263
EX – E
199 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HZ 263 of 199 Sqn RAF took off from a satellite drome at Ingham at 1938
hours on the night of 12/13th March 1943 to attack Essen, Germany. Nothing was heard
from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RCAF
Flt Lt King, W J Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Nunn, D A (Navigator)
406964 Sgt Townsend, C R (Air Bomber)
Sgt White, C F (Wireless Operator)
Sgt Edwards, R I (Air Gunner)
The body of Sgt Edwards (RCAF) was washed ashore the coast of Holland, some 20
miles north of Haarlem, and is interred in the Bergen General Cemetery. It was recorded
in 1949 that the remaining missing member of the crew had lost their lives at sea.
362
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
408017 Sergeant TRAVERS, Archibald Richard
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/168/127
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
R 3911
11 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim R 3911 of 11 Sqn RAF India, was detailed on 9 April 1942 to bomb enemy
shipping. It was lost at approx 12 midday as a result of enemy action.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
404107 Sgt MacLennan, H A (Pilot)
408017 Sgt Travers, A R (Observer)
400120 Sgt Nell, F J G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
363
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402893 Sergeant TREGEAR, Frank Webster
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/168/130
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Kittyhawk
AK 966
260 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Kittyhawk AK 966 of 260 Sqn RAF, Middle East was strafing an enemy motor transport
column on 24 April 1942 near Cyrenaica, Libya. While passing over the target after the
attack a lorry blew up and the aircraft was seen to crash in flames.
Crew:
RAAF
402893 Sgt Tregear, F W (Pilot)
Following post war searches and investigations when no trace of the aircraft or the
missing pilot was found, it was recorded in 1949 that Sgt Tregear had no known grave.
364
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407554 Sergeant TRELOAR, Colin Burns
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/168/103
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Catalina
W 84178
205 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Catalina W84178 of 205 Sqn RAF took off from Singapore shortly before dawn on 7
December 1941, detailed to intercept a convoy in the China Sea near Siam. The enemy
claimed to have attacked with fighters and destroyed a flying boat in the Gulf of Siam on
7th December 1941. W84178 failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Sgt Webb, W B
Sgt Bailey, E A
407554 Sgt Treloar, C B (Observer)
FO Bedell, P E
Sgt Abram, S
Sgt Eaton, P
LAC Chapman,
AC1 Burnett, W D
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
365
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
415000 Sergeant TRIGWELL, Russell Seymour
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/40/25
Aircraft Type:
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
W 4894
GT - T
156 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster W4894 of 156 Sqn RAF of RAF Station Wyton, Huntingdon, took off from
Warboys drome at 1948 hours on 3 April 1943 to attack Essen, Germany. Nothing was
heard from the aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RCAF
RAF
416410 Flt Sgt Byass, R A Captain (Pilot)
409519 FO Black, G J (Navigator)
414102 Sgt Thurecht, N R (Bombaimer)
415000 Sgt Trigwell, R S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Minns, G R (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Robertson, D L (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Crooks, S E (Rear Gunner)
Sgt Crooks body was washed ashore on 8 November 1943 at Oosterland, Wieringen,
Holland and is buried at the Military cemetery, Helder. In 1947 it was recorded that the
remaining missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.
In the 1990’s wreckage of the aircraft was found in the Waddenzee and it is believed the
aircraft was shot down by a German night fighter east of Texel Island, Holland.
366
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
417766 Flight Sergeant TUCKER, Lawrence Stanley
Source:
AWM 235 (65) NAA : A705, 166/40/341 Micro Film No 463 OAFH,
Commonwealth War Graves records.
W R Chorley : RAF Losses of the Second World
War, Page 74 Volume 1945.
Stirling
Aircraft Type:
LK 279
Serial number:
NF – L
Radio call sign:
138 SQN RAF
Unit:
Summary:
Stirling LK279 of 138 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Tempsford, Sandy, Bedfordshire
along with other aircraft of the Squadron at 2114 hours on the night of 9/10th February
1945, to carry out Operation Tablejam 190 and the formation set course for Denmark.
Nothing was heard from Srirling LK279 after take off and it failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
417766 Flt Sgt Tucker, L S Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Toss, G O (Navigator)
FO Mercer, G E (Air Bomber)
424752 Flt Sgt French, R Y (Wireless Operator)
WO Bell, B J (Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Carthew, W J (Air Gunner)
Sgt Harrigan, W M (Flight Engineer)
The aircraft crashed in a blizzard over Gamborg Fiord east of Sonderskov and south of
Faend Island. All of the crew were killed.
Flt Sgt French is buried in the Fredericia Northern Cemetery Churchyard, Denmark.
Fredericia is a town on the east coast of Jutland, 88kms by rail east of Esbjerg and about
5kms from the road-rail bridge connecting Jutland with the island of Fyn.
Flt Sgt Carthew whose body was washed ashore from the Baltic on 5th June 1945 is
buried in the Middlefart Sondre Cemetery, Denmark. Middlefart is at the north west
corner of Fyn on the main railway from Copenhagen to Jutland, 240kms by rail from
Copenhagen.
The other five crew members including Flt Sgt Tucker (RAAF) have no known grave and
their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing,. Runnymede, Surrey,
UK.
367
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
424479 Flight Sergeant TUDEHOPE, Reginald Joseph
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/40/182
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Anson
DJ 639
10 Radio School RAF
Summary:
Anson DJ 639 of 10 Radio School RAF took off from Carew Cherington, at 1357 hours
on a three hour W/T training flight over the Irish Sea. At 1500 hours a fix was obtained in
position 52.10N, 0603W. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft and it failed to
return to base.
An unconfirmed report from Eire authorities reported that an aircraft was seen to dive
into the sea from 4000 feet at 1516 hours some four miles south east of Greenore Point
and one mile north of Tusker Rock. The aircraft was a total loss and no parts were
recovered. The body of one crew member AC2 Carr (RAF) was picked up by launch at
1530 hours.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
FO Johnson, R I (1st Pilot)
424479 Flt Sgt Tudehope (1st Pupil Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
424503 Flt Sgt Young, S J H (2nd Pupil Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
AC2 Carr, R R (Passenger)
It was later recorded that the three missing crew members had lost their lives at sea. Their
names are recorded on the Memorial to the Missing Runnymede, UK.
AC2 Carr is buried in the Morval (St Wenna) Church Cemetery, UK.
368
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
435057 Flight Sergeant TUNNOCK, Alan Bruce
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/40/321
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
MP 792
78 Operational Trg RAF
Summary:
Wellington MP 792 of No 78 OTU RAF took off from RAF Station Ein Shemer, Middle
East Force, at approx 6pm on 8 January 1945 to carry out a non operational training
exercise over the sea, and the aircraft failed to return to base.
Normal radio contact was kept with the aircraft for a time but after 6.35pm no further
messages were received, and base could not regain contact. A little later information was
received that an aircraft had crashed in the sea. A launch was despatched to carry out a
search, and although some aircraft wreckage similar to the missing aircraft type was
located, it could not be established if it came from the missing aircraft. Also no trace of
the crew could be found.
It was believed that the aircraft came down in the sea approx 3 miles west of Jaffa,
Palestine, and that the crew were lost at sea.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
10963 FO Williams, A H (Pilot)
428417 FO Fong, G (2nd Pilot)
433709 Flt Sgt Barnfield, C E H (Navigator Bombaimer)
435057 Flt Sgt Tunnock, A B (Wireless Operator/Air)
436254 Flt Sgt Robins, A A (Wireless Operator/Air)
430970 Flt Sgt Sandlant, N G (Wireless Operator/Air)
369
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400945 Flight Sergeant TURNER, Eric Claude
Source:
NAA : A9301, Barcode 5549022
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
104 Sqn RAF
Summary:
A Wellington aircraft of No 104 Sqn RAF based at Landing Ground 237 with a
detachment at Luqa, Malta, was reported missing on air operations in the Middle East on
28 December 1942.
Crew:
RAAF
400945 Flt Sgtt Turner, E C (Navigator Bombaimer)
No other crew details are recorded on the above file.
370
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402474 Sergeant TWEEDIE, Norman
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/169/54
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
R 1038
75 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington R 1038 of No 75 (New Zealand) Sqn RAF took off from RAF Fetwell,
Thetford, Norfolk, at 2117 hours on the 11 September 1941, to carry out a mission
against a target in North Germany. Apart from a 3rd class fix at 0101 hours on 12
September, which placed the aircraft north of the target but not far off track, nothing
further was heard from R 1038 which failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RCAF
Sgt Roe, K Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Tomlinson, K A (2nd Pilot)
Sgt McVety, M W S (Observer)
Sgt Dunlop, D F (1st Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
402474 Sgt Tweedie, N (2nd Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Hopkins, T E (Air Gunner)
Following post war searches and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
371
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
411080 Flight Sergeant TWIGG, Gordon Edward
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/169/131
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Beaufighter
EL 360
248 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Beaufighter EL 360 of 248 Sqn RAF flown by Flt Sgt Twigg, (RAAF) along with T 5197
and T 5278, were detailed on 1 December 1942 to search for Beaufighter JL 434 missing
from an intercept patrol the previous day.
Nothing was heard from the three search aircraft after they took off at approx 8am in the
morning from RAF Station Talbenny, Pembrokeshire, South Wales, and they failed to
return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
411080 Flt Sgt Twigg, G E (Pilot)
Sgt Brook, J (Navigator Wireless)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
372
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
411618 Flight Sergeant VAN-WANING, Kendall
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/42/27
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hudson
VI 711
608 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Hudson VI 711 of No 608 (North Riding) Sqn RAF, British North African Force, was
reported missing from an operational sortie on 12 July 1943. The aircraft failed to return
to base at 0130 hours on 13 July 1943. No further news was received of aircraft or crew,
which was assumed lost at sea.
Crew:
RAAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
411303 FO Ellis, D W, Captain (Pilot)
FO Belecky (Navigator)
411618 Flt Sgt Van Waning, K (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
408739 Flt Sgt Rubens, N A (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
LAC Vaneta, H (Meteorologist)
373
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
406335 Sergeant VEAL, Colin Geoffrey
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/104/102, 163/120/384
Commonwealth War Graves records. W R Chorley: RAF Bomber Command Losses
Operational Training Units, 1940-1947, Page 101, Volume 7.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
X 9682
27 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington X9682 of No 27 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off from Valley
Anglesey, Wales, at night on 25 February 1942, on a cross country training flight. The
aircraft was last heard from in the vicinity of Squires Gate, Wales, at 1056 pm when an
SOS message was received over the Irish Sea between Valley and Liverpool. The aircraft
did not return to base, and subsequent air/sea rescue searches found no trace of the
missing aircraft or crew.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RNZAF
406351 Sgt Dyson, D H (Pilot)
406335 Sgt Veal, C G (2nd Pilot)
402302 Sgt Hargrave, A P R (Observer)
404598 Sgt Parsons, S J R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
407946 Sgt Madge, R C (Air Gunner)
Sgt Hawkins, R G (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the
Missing, Runnymede, UK.
374
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
421059 Flight Sergeant VEALE, Neville James Ninnes
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/42/40
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HZ 811
150 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HZ 811 of 150 Sqn RAF was one of a number of Squadron aircraft to attack
barges and harbour installations at Leghorn, Italy. HZ 811 took off at 1845 hours on 24
September 1943. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return
to base. Leghorn is located on the North West coast of Italy.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
409340 FO Williams, E O S (Pilot)
410198 FO West, J D (Navigator)
415521 Flt Sgt Godfrey, R R (Navigator)
409566 Flt Sgt Meyer, D G (Navigator Acting Bombaimer)
421059 Flt Sgt Veale, N J N (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations when no trace of the missing aircraft or
crew was located, it was recorded in 1948 that the crew had lost their lives at sea.
375
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
421140 Sergeant VEALE, Richard Samuel
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/42/29
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HE 613
104 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HE 613 of 104 Sqn RAF took off from Hani West Landing Ground at night
on 7 August 1943 to attack Cape Palami, Italy. The aircraft failed to return from this
mission. Cape Palami is on the south west coast of Italy approx. 20 miles north east of
Reggio.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
411943 Sgt Smith, D H Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Bristow, K F (2nd Pilot)
421140 Sgt Veale, R S (Navigator)
416554 Flt Sgt Ellis, R A (Bombaimer)
Sgt Holmes, F C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Barriskill, W J (Air Gunner)
Following post war instructions and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the
missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
376
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404662 Flight Sergeant VINNICOMBE, Thomas Leslie
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/175/101
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
Z 8568
104 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington Z 8568 of 104 Sqn RAF took off at 2308 hours on 24 July 1942 from Kabrit,
Middle East to carry out night operations. On the 25 July the following signals were
received from Z 8568 :
0238 hours “serious engine trouble may be forced to land”
0246 hours “Ht 1500 feet, course 105deg airspeed 100 mph”.
0308 hours “position 31.02 N 27.30 E”.
The operator then changed frequency to Burg-el-Arab H/F D/F who worked the aircraft
until 0420 hours. By this time the aircraft should have reached Burg-el-Arab or the
vicinity thereof, but the aircraft did not land. Searches the next day found no trace of the
missing aircraft.
Sgt Stokes (RAF) a member of the crew who became a POW later stated “the aircraft
crashed near Fuka Egypt. Four airmen were killed in the crash in the Western desert on
25 July. Sgt Eke (RAF) was still alive and badly injured on the 26th. Stokes set out to
seek aid and was taken POW on 28 July. He told the Italians the whereabouts of the
aircraft and of Sgt Eke, and had not heard anything further.”
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
Sgt Milner, R A Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Eke, G L (2nd Pilot)
Sgt Porter, D C (Observer)
404662 Flt Sgt Vinnicombe, T L (1st Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
403874 Sgt Morey, M R (2nd Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Stokes, H M (Air Gunner)
Following post war searches and enquiries, when no trace of the five missing crew was
found the case was closed.
377
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
412217 Sergeant WADDELL, Harold Theodore
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/57
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
W 4832
104 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster W 4832 took off from RAF Station Waddington at 1800 hours on 30/10/1943
to attack Lorient, France. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not
return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Sgt Skinner, D Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Hunter, J (Flight Engineer)
412217 Sgt Waddell, H T (Navigator)
Sgt Vincent, G T (Air Bomber)
403519 Sgt Knight, A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Howells, A (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Walton, F (Rear Gunner)
The body of Flt Sgt Skinner (RAF) was washed ashore on the French coast, 7 miles north
west of Lorient on the south coast of Brittany Peninsula. He is buried in the Guidel
Communal Cemetery. Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in
1949 that the remaining missing crew member had lost their lives at sea.
378
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
420086 Flight Sergeant WADDELL, Robert Reginald
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/341
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Beaufighter
V 8187
255 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Beaufighter V 8187 off 255 Sqn RAF Middle East, took off from RAF Blida on 27
August 1943 to carry out a calibration flight of the Palermo RDF Station, Sicily. The
aircraft was attacked some 5 miles east of Scotella by two Spitfires of an American
Squadron who mistook the Beaufighter for a German JU88. Hits were seen on V 8187,
and Flt Noonan a member of 40 Sqn RAF and who was a passenger in V 8187, was seen
slumped in the cockpit.
The pilot attempted to make for land and covered about 40 miles to shore when one
engine caught fire and he attempted to ditch in the sea but crashed.
An empty rubber dinghy was sighted, but no trace of the missing crew was found.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
420086 Flt Sgt Waddell, R R (Pilot)
409215 Flt Sgt Noonan, F A (Pilot – Pax)
379
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
28053 Sergeant WADE, James Christopher
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/74
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Stirling
BF 450
HA – X
218 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Stirling BF 450 of 218 (Gold Coast) Sqn RAF, from RAF Station Downham Market,
Norfolk, took off at 6.40pm on 25/2/1943 to bomb the Rheinau Power Station at
Nurnberg, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not
return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RCAF
RCAF
Sgt White,
28053 Sgt Wade, J C (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Werner,
Sgt Stuart,
Sgt Hearn,
Flt Sgt Mathews,
Sgt Young,
Following post war investigations it was established that the aircraft was shot down by
enemy aircraft and fell partly on the bank and in the river of the Rhine. Captured German
documents revealed that Flt Sgt Mathews and Sgt Young were buried in Mannheim
Cemetery. They were later re-interred in Bad Toelz (Durnbach) War Cemetery, Germany.
The documents also revealed that Sgt Wade (RAAF) and Sgt Stuart were buried in
Ludwigshafen Cemetery, but their graves could not be identified and they are recorded as
having no known grave.
380
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
409259 Flight Sergeant WALKER, Donald Foster
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/137
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Beaufighter
JL 818
235 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Beaufighter JL 818 of 235 Sqn RAF in company with one other aircraft took off from RAF Leuchars,
Scotland, at 11 am on 8 April 1943, to carry out a day time recce of the Norwegian coast. The two aircraft
parted company on diverting tracks soon after take off, and nothing was seen or heard from JL 818 and if
failed to return to base. The other aircraft completed its recce and landed.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
409259 Flt Sgt Walker, D F (Pilot)
PO Dowles, R O (Navigator Wireless)
In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
381
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
418486 Flight Sergeant WALKER, George Maxwell
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/137
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HZ 703
8 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HZ 703 of 8 Sqn RAF, British Forces Aden, took off at 10.30pm at night on
27 June 1944 on a convoy escort patrol. At 0205 hours on 28 June, SS Highland Prince
reported that a twin engine aircraft had crashed in the sea, caught fire and exploded. The
reported position was 12.20N, 44.03E. The ship and the Navy searched for two hours but
no trace of any survivors was found. It was established that no other aircraft apart from
HZ 703 was in the vicinity at the time.
Crew:
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
FO Ferguson, G W (Captain (Pilot)
FO Davis, H H G ((2nd Pilot)
Flt Lt Moeseley, E F (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
422296 Flt Sgt Reid, R A L (Wireless Operator Air) (ASVG)
418486 Flt Sgt Walker, G M (Wireless Operator Air) (ASVG)
425551 Flt Sgt Ryalls, C D (Wireless Operator Air) (ASVG)
It was later concluded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
382
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400072 Sergeant WALLER, Harold Gough
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/176/146
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Maryland
AH 361
39 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Maryland AH 361 of 39 Sqn RAF took off from Fuka satellite (Malta), at 0558 hours on
22 August 1941 on a recce over the Tobruk-Bardia road area and landing grounds. The
aircraft did not return to base after this mission. It was originally reported that the
aircraft was missing believed to have forced landed, but there was no definite evidence to
confirm this, and it was considered that its loss was due to enemy action.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
402102 Sgt C.K.Berriman, Pilot.
400072 Sgt H.G.Waller, Observer.
Sgt G.M.Halstead, Wireless operator/Air Gunner.
Sgt Crothers, Gunner.
Following post war enquiries and investigations it was recorded in 1948 that the crew had
lost their lives at sea.
383
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403100 Sergeant WARREN, Frederick Ernest Sydney
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/176/250 1633/98/469 Commonwealth War Graves
records
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
L 1125
2 (C) Op Training RAF
Summary:
Blenheim L 1125 of No 2 Conversion Operational Training Unit RAF carrying out an
operational training flight on 4 April 1942, collided in mid-air with another aircraft at
1930 hours during formation flying. The accident occurred 1 mile north of Skipsea, in the
County of Yorkshire (later rezoned into the County of Humberside). L1125 crashed on
the shore, and L 6795 the other aircraft crashed approx 500 yards out to sea.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RCAF
Sgt G A Edmonds Captain (Pilot)
PO Mair, J D (Observer)
Sgt Eart
404855 Sgt V G H Copas, (Wireless Air Gunner)
403100 Sgt Warren, F E S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt W T Braun (
Sgt Copas (RAAF) is interred in the Brandesburton (St Mary’s) Church Yard Yorkshire.
It was recorded in 1949 that Sgt Warren (RAAF) and Sgt Braun (RCAF) had lost their
lives at sea, and they have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the
Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK.
PO Mair was cremated in the Hull Crematorium, UK.
384
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404899 Sergeant WARREN, Ralph Ernest
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/176/273
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Manchester
L 7418
106 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Manchester L &418 of 106 Sqn RAF took off at 1455 hours on 19 May 1942 on a day
cross country exercise. The last message received from the aircraft was at 1703 hours
asking if there were any instructions. They did not appear in any difficulty. At the time
the estimated position was off Land’s End, Cornwall.The aircraft failed to return to base,
and after it became overdue the air sea rescue was informed.
The route was Base – Aberystwyth – Lands End – Hurn - Base
Crew:
RAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
Sgt McHardy, A J Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Post, R A (2nd Pilot)
404899 Sgt Warren, R E (Navigator Bombaimer)
Sgt Chapman, F (Wireless Operator)
Sgt Gill, G K (Air Gunner)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
385
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
427175 Flight Sergeant WASHBOURNE, Gordon
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/707
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
HK 548
KO – W
115 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster HK 548 of 115 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Witchford on the night of
7/8th June 1944 to carry out an attack against Massy Paliseau, Chevreusse, France.
Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew :
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
42207 PO Law E A Captain (Pilot)
427175 Flt Sgt Washbourne, G (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
427540 Flt Sgt Nurse, J R
Sgt Parkinson
Sgt Newton
Sgt Russell
Sgt Murphy
PO Law, Flt Sgt Nurse (RAAF) and Sgts Parkinson, Russell and Murphy (RAF) became
POW’s In a statement Flt Sgt Nurse said “ the aircraft was attacked by two fighters when
commencing the run into the target. The port engine caught fire but was extinguished.
The starboard inner engine was also hit and a fire started in the starboard wing. Efforts to
extinguish were ineffective. The abandon order was given. I baled out at 6000 feet. I later
made contact with PO Law and he informed me that Sgt Parkinson Sgt Russell and Flt
Sgt Washbourne had baled out.” PO Law later stated that all the crew had baled out.
German documents recorded that Flt Sgt Washbourne had been shot as he tried to escape
capture on 8 June 1944. No trace of his grave has been found and his name is
commemorated on the Runnymede Missing Memorial UK. Sgt Newton (RAF) is buried
in the Massy Communal Cemetery, 10 miles south of Paris.
386
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
420327 Flight Sergeant WATKINS, Marcel Alfred Barnard
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/43/159 Commonwealth War Graves records.
W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses of the Second World War, Page 120,
Volume 1943.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
ED 709
HW – S
ATTD 100 SQN RAF
Summary:
Lancaster ED 709 of 100 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Grimsby, Lincolnshire, at
2159 hours on 20 April, 1943 to attack Stettin, Germany. Nothing was heard from the
aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
Wg Cdr Swain, J G W Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Carter, T (Flight Engineer)
411043 Flt Lt Myers, B F (Navigator Bombaimer)
PO Wellard, (Bombaimer)
Sgt Sidwell, R S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
420327 Flt Sgt Watkins, M A B (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Whellhams, R A (Rear Gunner)
Post war it was established that after the attack on the target, the aircraft was hit by ackack fire and crashed in Ringkobing Bay about one mile from Velling, Denmark. Two
bodies were washed ashore and one was recovered from the sea. Both Flt Lt Myers and
PO Wellard are buried in Lemvig Vester Cemetery and Wg Cdr Swain is buried in
Esbjerg (Fourfelt) Cemetery.
The remaining four missing crewmen including Flt Sgt Watkins have no known grave.
Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey,
UK.
387
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
425560 Flight Sergeant WATSON, Leroy Anwyll
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/524
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
JA 713
MG – V
7 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster JA &13 of 7 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Oakington, Cambridge, at 2012
hours on 3 September 1943 to attack Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after
take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
FO Crockford, A Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Robinson, E
Sgt Vardy, G
Sgt Barnsley, P
Sgt Easton, H A
425560 Flt Sgt Watson, L A (Air Gunner)
Sgt Wood, W C
It was later established that the aircraft was shot down by a night fighter and crashed at
0230 hours in the sea south of the Danish island of Tuno. FO Crockford and Sgt
Robinson are buried in the Asrhus West Cemetery, Denmark, and Sgt Barnsley interred
in the Fourfeldt Gravland, Esbjerg. The remaining four missing crew members including
Flt Sgt Watson were recorded as having lost their lives at sea.
388
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
412327 Warrant Officer WATSON, Wallace Arthur
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/453
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
JA 853
MG – L
ATTD 7 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster JA 853 of 7 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Oakington, Cambridge, at
1624 hours on 16 December 1943 to bomb Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft
after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
412327 WO Watson, W A Captain (Pilot)
415061 Flt Sgt Waterman, W M (Navigator)
412270 Flt Sgt Robinson, G N (Air Bomber)
408306 Flt Sgt Butterworth, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Hurst, J (Mid Upper Gunner)
414876 Sgt McWha, R D (Rear Gunner)
Flt Sgt Hedges, R E (Flight Engineer)
Captured German documents and post war investigations in the Follega area (Holland)
and at Lemmar Cemetery, established that JA 853 exploded in mid air and crashed at
Follega, which one and a half miles north of Lemmar on the north coast of Zuider Zee,
Holland. Five bodies were recovered by the Germans who identified those of Flt Sgt
Waterman (RAAF), Flt Sgt Robinson (RAAF) and Flt Sgt Hedges (RAF) with two being
unidentified. The 5 were interred by the Germans in Lemmar cemetery.
Exhumation later identified the two unidentified as Sgt McWha (RAAF) and Sgt Hurst
(RAF), and they were reinterred in the Lemmar cemetery.
In 1948 it was recorded that the two missing crew members WO Watson (RAAF) and Flt
Sgt Butterworth (RAAF) had no known grave.
389
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402425 Flight Sergeant WATTS, David Maitland
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/176/187
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
AD 629
108 Sqn RAF.
Summary:
Wellington AD 629 of 108 Sqn RAF took off at 1946 hours on 12 August 1942 to carry
out an operational sortie against Tobruk. Nothing further was heard of the aircraft or crew
after take off.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
402425 Flt Sgt Watts, D M Captain (Pilot)
402864 FO Gengos, W (2nd Pilot)
PO Harris, R (Navigator)
400354 Sgt Opas, A L (Wireless Operator)
402596 Sgt Hart, M. (Front Gunner)
Sgt Taylor, J W (Rear Gunner)
In 1948 it was recorded that all the crew lost their lives and have no known grave.
390
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
401176 Warrant Officer WEBB, Gordon Russell
Source:
NAA 166/43/155
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HZ 146
40 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HZ 146 of 40 Sqn RAF, Middle East, took off at 1746 hours on the night of
19th/20th April 1943, to attack Landing Grounds at Soliman South. Nothing was heard
from the aircraft after take off and it failed to return to base in the morning. Other aircraft
on the mission reported seeing two aircraft shot down in flames at 2055 and 2105 hours.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
401176 W O G.R.Webb, Captain (Pilot).
Sgt M.F.McKeon, Pilot.
409157 Sgt H.W.E.Liley, Air Bomber.
Sgt A.G.Quick, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
Sgt I.W.Sanderson, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
408232 Flt Sgt L.N.Bain, Air Gunner.
In 1943 the Germans and the Italian Red Cross confirmed that Sgt Webb and Flt Sgt Bain
had been killed on 19 April 1943, but no burial details were given.
Sgt Liley and Sgt Quick became POW’s, and in a later statement by Sgt Liley he reported
“the aircraft was shot down on 19 April 1943 and he baled out. He believes that Sgt Bain
and one other were killed when the aircraft crashed 20 miles east of Tunis, but that he had
no definite confirmation that Bain was killed.”
In 1947 following post war enquiries and investigations it was recorded that the graves of
Sgt Webb and Flt Sgt Bain could not be located.
391
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
410579 Flight Sergeant WEBB, Kenneth Wilfred
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/605
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Liberator
BZ 913
547 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Liberator BZ 913 of 547 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station St Eval, Wadebridge,
Cornwall, at 0602 hours on 12 April 1944 on an anti-sub patrol in the Bay of Biscay. The
aircraft failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
421867 Flt Sgt E.G.Swanbury, Pilot.
410579 Flt Sgt K.W.Webb, Navigator Bombaimer
417634 Flt Sgt M.R.Goldney, Navigator Bombaimer.
421846 Flt Sgt K.R.Foster, Wireless Operator Air.
422141 Flt Sgt E.Daniels, Wireless Operator Air.
Flt Sgt Sutton.
Sgt Wood.
Sgt Crosbie.
FO Ryer.
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
392
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
432605 Flight Sergeant WEBBER, Athol Grant
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/820
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
HK 556
A4 – F
115 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster HK 556 of 115 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Witchford at 2019 hours on the
night of 26/27 August 1944 to attack Kiel, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft
after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RNZAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
FO Holder, D F Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Hartley, (Navigator)
Flt Sgt Swannell, J N (Air Bomber)
Sgt Clatworth, (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Pearson (Flight Engineer)
434791 Flt Sgt Jackson, A S (Air Gunner)
432605 Flt Sgt Webber, A G (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had no known grave.
393
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
425084 Flight Sergeant WEBSTER, Francis Llewellyn
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/555
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
HX 225
58 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Halifax HX 225 of 58 Sqn RAF from RAF Station St Davids, Pembrokeshire, took off
from RAF Brawly at 1755 hours on 11 March 1944 to carry out an anti sub patrol in the
Bay of Biscay. At 0117 hours on 12 March a signal was received from the aircraft which
broke off before completion. Nothing further was heard from HX 225 and it failed to
return to base. It was believed that the aircraft was attacking and was shot down by a U
boat.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
FO Hayward, L A Captain (Pilot)
FO Rice, W J (2nd Pilot)
WO McCormick, R J (Navigator)
Sgt Potter, R A (Flight Engineer)
FO Wilson, J (1st Wireless Operator Air)
425084 Flt Sgt Webster, F L (2nd Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Parkes, S T (3rd Wireless Operator Air)
WO Bonar, R J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
394
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
426418 Warrant Officer WEBSTER, Ralph
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/1087
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HZ 644
524 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HZ 644 of No 524 Sqn RAF, took off from RAF Station Langham at 1546
hours of 13 January 1945 to carry out an armed recce against enemy shipping off the
Frisian Islands. The patrol was to commence at 5400N 0700E and after covering an area
up to 5350N 0815E to follow the inner convoy route to Borkum, and from thence to
make for base due at 1946 hours. No messages were received from the aircraft which did
not return to base. No reports were received from later aircraft on similar mission other
than heavy flak from Nordernay to Borkum.
Beaufighters and a Warwick aircraft made searches during daylight, but no trace of the
aircraft or crew were found. It was assumed that the crew were lost at sea.
The crew were on their 29th mission when they failed to return.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Lt MacGregor, R H, DFC, Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Sarsons, G A (2nd Pilot)
420468 PO Ham, G W, DFC (Navigator)
426418 WO Webster, R (Wireless Operator/Air)
426552 WO Datson, E J (Wireless Operator/Air)
Sgt Sayers, D J H (Wireless Operator/Air)
WO Kirtley, D (Wireless Operator/Air)
395
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
35027 Flight Sergeant WEDD, Clifton Warwick Frank
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/1293
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
NG 222
1654 Heavy Conversion RAF
Summary:
Lancaster NG 222 of 1654 Heavy Conversion Unit RAF, took off from RAF Station
Wigsley at 1125am on 12 April 1945, on a cross country training flight in England,
finishing up with an air sea firing exercise over the Wash off the east coast of England.
At 2.15pm a message was received from the aircraft requesting a weather report, which
was cloudy with slight haze, visibility 4 miles. The report was acknowledged at 2.15pm.
There was no further contact however with the aircraft which failed to reply to a signal
from base sent at 3.40pm for a report on its position and an ETA.
Searches were subsequently made and the body of Flt Sgt Darby (RAF) was recovered
from the sea at Northclates, near Grimsby, Lincoln. There was however no trace found of
the missing aircraft or remaining crew members.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
35027 Flt Sgt Wedd, C W Captain (Pilot)
428057 FO Smith, B P (Observer)
124764 FO Rolston, A G (Bombaimer)
432885 Flt Sgt Sharp, J W (Wireless Operator Air)
Flt Sgt Baker
Sgt Chapman
Sgt Hope
Flt Sgt Darby
Flt Sgt Hardman
It was later recorded that the eight missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.
396
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
15851 Flight Sergeant WEIR, William David
Source:
NAA : A705/166/43/229
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
BJ 672
27 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington BJ 672 of No 27 Operational Training Unit RAF took off from RAF Station
Lichfield, Staffordshire, at 1136 am on a non operational flight over the North Sea on 14
June 1943. Communications were received from the aircraft at 1141am and 1224pm
when the aircraft was near Boston, Lincolnshire on the outward journey. No other
messages were received and BJ 672 failed to return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
15851 Flt Sgt W.D.Weir, Pilot
412024 Sgt V.C.Mcquade, Observer.
413373 Flt Sgt G.H.Gray, Observer.
410327 Sgt R.McL.Grieve, Wireless Operator Air Gunner.
421602 Sgt J.S.Lee, Air Gunner.
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
397
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400763 Sergeant WELCH, Arnold Gregory
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/177/272
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Manchester
L 7429
EA 49 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Manchester L 7429 of 49 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Scampton at 2300 hours on 30
May 1942 to attack Cologne, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off
and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Sgt Carter, Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Ash, M S
400763 Sgt Welch, A G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Ramsey, L J
Sgt Yeates, L J
Sgt Haynes, G C
Sgt Block, D
Post war enquiries and investigations established from German sources that the aircraft
crashed on the island of Ouddorp, Holland, but no bodies were recovered. It was recorded
in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
398
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405370 Flight Sergeant WELLESLEY, Charles John Jay
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/68
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Stirling
BF 378
LS – T
15 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Stirling BF 378 of 15 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Bourn, Cambridgeshire, at
1755 hours on 19 February 1943 to bomb Wilhelmshaven, Germany. Nothing was heard
from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RNZAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
FO Crawford, B V Captain (Pilot)
FO Long, C R (Navigator)
PO Howson, P T (Air Bomber)
Sgt Keeble, K S (1st Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
405370 Flt Sgt Wellesley, C J J (Mid Upper Gunner)
406769 Sgt Borrett, A H (Rear Gunner)
Sgt Macklin, W H (Flight Engineer)
The bodies of FO Long (RCAF) and Sgt Borrett were washed ashore on the island of
Texel off the coast of Holland. Sgt Borret is buried at Schiermonnikoog (Vredenhof)
Cemetery. The small island of Schiermonnikoog is the most northerly of the Frisian
Islands lying about 11kms north of the Dutch mainland.
Sgt Wellesley has no known grace and his name is commemorated on the Memorial to
the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.
399
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
427274 Flight Sergeant WEST, Ian Albert
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/1139
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
PB 570
1669 Conversion Royal Air Force 72
Summary:
Lancaster PB 570 of No 1669 Conversion Unit RAF, took off from RAF Langar, near
Barnstone, Nottingham, to carry out a night cross country operational training flight.
Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. The route
was Base – Basenstoke – Barnstaple – Bude – St Marys – Bardsey – Aberystwyth –
Northhampton – Base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
427274 Flt Sgt West, I A Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Holmes, R (Navigator)
Sgt Drawbridge, H W N (Air Bomber)
Sgt Tannen, L M (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Clapton, G F A (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Voller, P H (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Kerling, E D (Rear Gunner)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
400
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
417917 Flight Sergeant WESTERN, Malcolm George
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/454
Lancaster
Aircraft Type:
DV 382
Serial number:
UL - G2
Radio call sign:
576 Sqn RAF
Unit:
Summary:
Lancaster DV 382 of 576 Sqn RAF was detailed to operate against Berlin on the night of
16/17 December 1943. The aircraft left RAF Station Elsham Wolds, Barnetby,
Lincolnshire, UK, at the appointed time, but nothing further was heard of the aircraft or
crew.
In 1947, a report from No 4 MREU, RAF (Germany) established that the aircraft crashed
in the vicinity of Berlin-Lichtenberg, Map Ref N53 Z9253.
Investigations were carried out in the Berlin area and at Doeberitz-Elsgrund cemetery,
about 10 miles west of Berlin. Despite exhaustive searches and interrogations of local
authority, it was not possible to obtain any information of actual location of crash.
Exhumations at the Doeberitz-Elsgrund cemetery located 2 members of the crew buried
there viz Chapman & Russom (both RAF members), but it could not be established
whether the remainder of the crew were buried there.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
FO McAra, R S, Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Barrett, J L (Flight Engineer)
422388 FO Blackmore, G L (Navigator)
Flt Sgt Chapman, C (Air Bomber. Body interred)
Sgt Russom, E (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. Body interred)
417917 Flt Sgt Western, M G (Air Gunner)
417837 Flt Sgt Harris, A A (Air Gunner)
401
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400245 Sergeant WESTON, Neville Jack
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/177/169
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Manchester
LZ 466
OF – N
97 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Manchester LZ 466 of No 97 (Straits Settlements) Sqn RAF, took off from RAF Station
Coningsby, Lincolnshire, at 1320 hours on 8 November 1941 to carry out air sea rescue
work in the North Sea searching for crews reported missing from the previous nights
operations. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RCAF
Fl Lt Price, C P D DFC Captain (Pilot)
PO Bickering, G H J (2nd Pilot)
400245 Sgt Weston, N J (Observer)
Flt Sgt Stanley, C DFM (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Dexter, A R A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Manners, F W (Air Gunner)
Sgt Bronson, C R (Air Gunner)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
402
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400575 Sergeant WHEELER, Frederick Walter
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/177/187
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
E 7628
72 Op Trg RAF
Summary:
Blenheim E 7628 of No 72 Operational Training Unit RAF took off at 2115 hours on 17
December 1941 on a cross country training flight in the Red Sea Hills area in the Middle
East. Messages were received from the aircraft at 2149, 2201 and 2235 hours, but the
aircraft ceased to transmit after that and failed to return to base.
The cross country flight was from Wadi Gazouza to Sollum Junction to Ras Asis and
back to Wadi Gazouza.
Crew:
RAF
RCAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
Sgt Freeman, C (Pilot)
PO Smith (Observer)
Sgt Hussey, P P (Observer)
400575 Sgt Wheeler, F W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Armour, W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded that the missing crew
had no known grave.
403
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400684 Sergeant WHEELER, William Robert
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/177/222
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
3872
11 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blemheim 3872 of 11 Sqn RAF was missing on 19 February 1942, from an operational
flight to Landing Ground 121 in Sidi Barrani area, Egypt. The aircraft took off from Bade
at 1130 hours on 19 February.
The wreck of the aircraft was found on 31 March 1942, 68 miles west of Mersa Matruh,
1.5 miles north of the railway in the Sidi Barrani area. The identities of the missing crew
were established and the remains of the crew were buried.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
407594 Sgt Small, J T (Pilot)
404025 Sgt Clements, H A (Observer)
400684 Sgt Wheeler, W R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war searches and investigations when no trace of the graves were found,
it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had no known grave.
404
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
422822 Flight Sergeant WHITBY, John Downton
Source:
NAA : A9301, Barcode 5535350
No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives.
But see NAA : A705, 166/18/372
Liberator
Aircraft Type:
BZ 915
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
224 Sqn RAF
Unit:
Summary:
Liberator BZ 915 of 224 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station St.Eval, Cornwall, in the
early hours of 7 June 1944. The aircraft was detailed to patrol the coast of Ushant, France
but failed to return to base. The last signal received from the aircraft at 0207 hours stated
that they were attacking the enemy, the position of the aircraft then was off the French
coast near Ushant. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
414988 FO Buchan-Hepburn, R H, Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Fairs, G H J (2nd Pilot)
420386 PO Hogan, P W (Navigator Bombaimer)
422822 Flt Sgt Whitby, J D (Navigator)
422512 Flt Sgt Hands, B A (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
408388 Flt Sgt Dickenson, M E (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
422464 Flt Sgt Earl, H J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
418506 Flt Sgt Kennedy, A A (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Barnes, L J (Wireless Operator Mechanic/Air Gunner)
Sgt Collins, A (Flight Engineer)
In a 1949 report it was stated that all efforts to find any trace of the aircraft or crew were
unsuccessful, and the crew had been recorded as missing lost at sea.
405
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400377 Sergeant WHITE, Alfred Guthrie
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/177/148
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
V 6222
8 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim V 6222 of 8 Sqn RAF on 25 September 1941 was engaged in the Western
Desert area, Egypt, on an exercise which involved flying over the sea at about 500 feet
and about 40 miles from land. About 0720Z hours the aircraft crashed into the sea about
40 miles due south of Aden. Subsequent air searches found petrol tanks and small pieces
of wreckage which indicated that the aircraft crashed at high speed. No survivors were
found.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
400377 Sgt White, A G (Pilot)
Sgt Stoddard, T E
Sgt Message, E V
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
406
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
410758 Warrant Officer WHITE, Frederick William
Source:
NAA B: A705, 166/43/830
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
ED 327
BH – R
300 Sqn Royal Air Force (Polish)
Summary:
Lancaster ED 327 of 300 Sqn RAF (Polish) took off from RAF Faldingworth, Lincoln, at
2115 hours on 29 August 1944 to attack Stettin, Germany. Nothing was heard from the
aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
PO Lupton, R Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Hamilton, J B (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Jewell,, K J (Navigator)
Sgt Baron, D K (Air Bomber)
410758 WO White, F W (Wireless Operator Air)
Flt Sgt Vaughan, I C (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Barnett, S S (Rear Gunner)
The body of Sgt Baron (RAF) was washed up on the west coast of Sweden, and is
interred at Falkenberg, approx 19 miles north west of Halmstad in the province of
Halland, Sweden. It was recorded in 1949 that the remaining six missing crew members
had lost their lives at sea.
407
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
401355 Sergeant WHITE, Nathaniel
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/177/253
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hudson
AM 782
59 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Hudson AM 782 of 59 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station North Coates Lincolnshire,
at 1220 hours on 21 April 1942 on a practice flight over the North Sea with other
Squadron aircraft. At 1405 hours a message was received from one of the aircraft that it
was being attacked by enemy aircraft. AM 782 failed to return to base and it was
presumed that it had been shot down by the enemy aircraft.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
PO Boggon, M G (Pilot)
401355 Sgt White, N (Observer)
PO St Ours, J A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Howell, J E (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sqn Ldr Thompson, J StJ (Passenger)
The bodies of PO Boggon and PO St Ours were washed ashore at Hemsby Gap, Norfolk
England. No trace was found of the other three missing crew members and it was
recorded that they had lost their lives at sea.
408
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
407631 Sergeant WHITING, Peter Robert Alfred Stewart
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/177/334
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
R 5563
61 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster R 5563 of 61 Sqn RAF took off from St Eval drome, Cornwall, at 1128 hours
on 19 August 1942 to carry out an anti sub patrol in the Bay of Biscay off the north coast
of Spain. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RCAF
RAF
RAAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Sgt Shriner C P Captain (Pilot)
Sgt McNeary, J (Flight Engineer)
407631 Sgt Whiting, P R A S (Observer)
Flt Sgt Jackson, K R (Air Bomber)
Flt Sgt Monk, F J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Melville, G A (Air Gunner)
Sgt Temple, E (Air Gunner)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
409
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404473 Warrant Officer WHYTE, Jack Barnard
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/200
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
BB 456
215 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington BB 456 of 215 Sqn RAF India, left base at 6pm on 17 May 1943 to carry out
bombing operations on a target at 20.52N, 95.51E,in the vicinity of Meiktila, Burma.
The aircraft failed to return from this mission. The crew of other aircraft on the same
mission reported seeing what they thought was an aircraft hit by flak and crash.
Crew:
RCAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
Flt Lt Guest, J.A. Pilot.
Flt Sgt J.W.Wilmore, Pilot.
404238 WO C.L.Edwards, Navigator.
404473 WO J.B.Whyte, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
404541 WO A. Barnes, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
Flt Sgt R.Cross, Air Gunner.
Following post war enquiries and investigations, the aircraft was discovered outside the
village of Kyubobin. The headman indicated an open common grave. Villagers stated
that they saw the plane approaching them unsteadily from the east of Meiktila near the
airfield. They saw two descending by parachute, then the plane dived and hit a paddy
field mound and exploded.
In 1950, six unidentified bodies were found at Kalaw, but there was no evidence to link
the bodies with the above aircraft.
In 1954 it was recorded that after further searches the remains of the crew of BB 456
were unlocated.
410
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
408448 Flight Sergeant WILKEN, Charles Leslie
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/916
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Liberator
42 – 110120
530 Sqn USAAF
Summary:
On the night of 28 October 1944 Liberator 42-110120 of 530 Sqn, 380 Bomb Group
USAAF, 5th Air Force, failed to return from a mission to Macassar, NEI. The aircraft
took off from Darwin at 1751 hours, manned by a RAAF crew of eleven. The following
sequence of messages was received by Ops room No 380 (B) Group:
281420Z No 3 out, Position 06.25S 120.50E course 120deg true.
281555Z 2 engines out, posn 0800S 123.35E.
281628Z Not likely to reach base. No 4 giving trouble. Preparing to ditch.
Darwin obtained a bearing of 340deg at 281604Z. Search ships and 4 B24’s immediately
began search, and B24’s, B25’s and Catalinas on subsequent days were unable to locate
missing aircraft or crew.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
ARMY
408190 FO Harrison, A L, Captain (Pilot)
413969 WO Davidson, S H (2nd Pilot)
416078 Flt Lt Cropley, A A (Navigator)
408590 FO O’Dea, D J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
416861 WO Killen, K L J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
423587 Flt Sgt Barber, W R (Navigator/Bombaimer)
408448 Flt Sgt Wilken, C L (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
36474 Sgt Jamieson, S H (Armament/Gunner)
429432 Sgt Cook, J E (Air Gunner)
62526 Sgt Bird, W J (Fitter 11A/Gunner)
116993 LAC (Agt Flt Sgt) Anstey, F W (Flight Engineer)
VX21828 Major Latrelle, H R, AIF, Intel. Officer (Observer)
In 1949 it was recorded that the aircraft and crew were lost at sea.
411
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
419430 Flight Sergeant WILKS, Geoffrey Talbot
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/631
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
ME 742
PG – Q
619 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster ME 742 of 619 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Dunholme Lodge, Lincoln, at
2100 hours on 23 April 1944 to carry out a non operational night training flight. The
training was a fighter and searchlight affiliation exercise. At about 2300 hours the aircraft
was seen to be flying on track and illuminated by searchlight beams at 12/13000 feet. It
was held for 2 to 3 minutes during which time it carried out defensive manoeuvres and
then disappeared for about 10 seconds in cloud. As it reappeared there was an orange
flash and the aircraft was heard to dive at high speed. The dive continued until it crashed
into the sea some 2/3 miles off Hornsea on the Yorkshire coast.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
Sgt Broomfield, P Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Veal, F E W (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Kersley, D F A (Navigator)
Sgt Hunt, K W (Air Bomber)
419430 Flt Sgt Wilks, G T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Emsley, E G (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Tucker, F L (Rear Gunner)
The bodies of Sgt Veal and Sgt Emsley (RAF) were recovered. It was recorded that the
remaining five missing crew members including Flt Sgt Wilks had lost their lives at sea.
412
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402427 Sergeant WILLIAMS, Alan Neal
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/178/267
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Whitley
Z 9305
EY 78 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Whitley Z 9305 of 78 Sqn RAF was detailed for operations against Rotterdam on the
night of 28 January 1942. The aircraft failed to return to base. It was reported that the
aircraft was hit by ack-ack fire from trawlers off the Essex coast and crashed at 1905
hours into the sea near the Cork Lightship off Harwich.
Crew:
RAAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
402427 Sgt Williams, A N Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Campbell,
PO Williams,
Sgt Curnick
Sgt Dobson,
The body of Sgt Campbell (RCAF) was recovered by HMS Lorna Doone and buried at
sea. It was recorded that he remaining missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.
413
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404834 Sergeant WILLIAMS, Albert Soffi
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/178/400
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
Z 7847
8 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim Z 7847 of 8 Sqn RAF was detailed to carry out an convoy escort patrol on 4
September 1942, forty miles distant from its base in the Middle East. Nothing was heard
from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. The weather conditions were
good, but later aircraft on the same escort mission reported large areas of cloud with a
base down to 100 feet.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
404834 Sgt Williams, A S (Pilot)
405060 Sgt McDowall, R G (Observer)
406299 Sgt Green, G F (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations it was recorded in 1948 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
414
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
421484 Warrant Officer WILLIAMS, Arthur Roland
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/1140
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Liberator
BZ 938
159 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Liberator BZ 938 of 159 Sqn RAF on 31 January 1945 crashed near the village of
Letpanbin Burma, whilst on a special signals flight mission in the areas of Yosange Isle,
Rangoon River, Bassein, Ywangyaung, Meiktila, Ywathet, Moulmein, Bankok, Tavey
and Diamond Isle.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
Sqn Ldr Bradley, J W Captain (Pilot)
Flt Sgt Bellingan, A (2nd Pilot)
FO Jeffrey, A G (Navigator)
FO Lowery, W J J (Wireless Operator)
Flt Sgt Woodage, J D (Wireless Operator)
Flt Sgt Woodbridge, S J (Wireless Operator)
421484 WO Williams, A R (Wireless operator Air)
Flt Sgt Snelling, R J (Flight Engineer)
Flt Sgt Adams, L (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, local witnesses advised that their were
only six survivors from the crash. Sqn Ldr Bradley and FO Jeffrey (RAF) were POW’s
and later released. Flt Sgt Bellingan, Flt Sgt Woodage, Flt Sgt Woodbridge and Flt Sgt
Snelling (all RAF members) lost their lives whilst POW’s of the Japanese. The bodies of
WO Williams (RAAF), FO Lowery (RAF) and Flt Sgt Adams (RAF) could not be found
and they are recorded as having no known grave.
415
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405459 Sergeant WILLIAMS, Cecil Alfred
Source:
NAA : A705: 163/178/391
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
R 1345
21 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington R 1345 of No 21 Operational Training Unit RAF took off at 2020 hours on 18
August 1942, on a night training flight. A third class fix was obtained by Sealand at 0031
hours which placed the aircraft about 18 miles west of the point where it should approx
have been at the time. No other contact or messages were received from the aircraft and it
failed to return to base. It was considered that the aircraft may have crashed into the Irish
Sea.
Crew:
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
Sgt Derrick, M R (Pilot)
Sgt Drake, N (2nd Pilot)
Sgt Pogrel, A (Observer)
405459 Sgt Williams, C A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
PO Castell, R A (Air Gunner)
416
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
419678 Flight Sergeant WILLIAMS, John Gray
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/734
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Liberator
FL 931
86 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Liberator FL 931 of 86 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Tain, Ross-shire, Scotland,
at 0255 hours on 26 June 1944 to carry out an anti-submarine patrol in the North Sea.
Nothing further was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
411799 Fl Lt Moffitt, F D, Captain (Pilot)
434069 FO Whitby, S W (2nd Pilot)
FO Pearson, H (1st Navigator)
427942 Sgt Richardson, K I (2nd Navigator)
424197 Sgt Mason, L O H (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
419678 Sgt Williams, J G (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt O’Bierne (Wireless Operator/Air)
Sgt Leighton, G G (Wireless Operator Mechanic/Air Gunner)
Sgt Moffitt, I T (Flight Engineer)
With no trace of the missing aircraft or crew being found from post war investigations
and enquiries, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew were lost at sea.
417
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403246 Sergeant WILLIAMS, Leonard Stanley
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/178/378
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Whitley
Z 9525
58 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Whitley Z 9525 of 58 Sqn RAF of RAF Station St Eval, near Wadebridge, Cornwall,
took off from the detachment at Wick, Scotland, at 1215 hours on 6 August 1942 to carry
out a “Flora” anti sub patrol. The aircraft was due back at 2230 hours, but it failed to
return to base.
Crew:
RCAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Flt Sgt Strutt, G D DFM Captain (Pilot)
403246 Sgt Williams, L S (2nd Pilot)
Sgt Morgan, G A (Observer)
Sgt Prior, E T (1st Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Griffiths, E W (2nd Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Hooper, A (3rd Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
418
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
414531 Flight Sergeant WILLIAMS, Walter Vincent
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/255
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HE 707
40 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HE 707 of 40 Sqn RAF was detailed on the night of the 8 July 1943 along
with other squadron aircraft to attack Catania drome Sicily. At 2320 hours one aircraft in
the Catania area while over the sea was seen to explode. At 2327 hours a second aircraft
was seen to explode in mid air and fall in flames following air to air firing. No parachutes
were seen to bale out from either aircraft.
As both HE 707 and HZ 144 failed to return from the mission it could not be determined
as to which aircraft the above explosions applied.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
Sgt Hart, S H L Captain (Pilot)
414531 Flt Sgt Williams, W V (Navigator Bombaimer)
Sgt Howatson, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Dryden, G S (Air Bomber)
Sgt Sharpe, H H (Air Gunner)
It was recorded in 1947 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
419
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
403087 Flight Sergeant WILLIAMS, William Bedlington Knox
Source:
NAA : A9301 Barcode 5533851
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Spitfire
ATTD 1435 Sqn RAF
Summary:
A Spitfire of No 1435 Sqn RAF based at Luqa, Malta, was reported missing from air
operations on 14 October 1942.
Crew:
RAAF
403087 Flt Sgt Williams, W B K (Pilot)
420
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
406543 Sergeant WILLIS, Roy Allen
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/255
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hudson
FH 378
48 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Hudson FH 378 of 48 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Wick, Caithness, Scotland, at
1150 hours on 15 July 1942 to carry out a “Trost” patrol. The ETA bask at base was 1810
hours, but nothing was heard from the aircraft and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAAF
Sqn Ldr Petersen, V A Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Dogue, G (Navigator)
406531 Sgt Langoulant, T B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
406543 Sgt Willis, T A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was established that the remains of
Sqn Ldr Petersen was recovered from the sea in the vicinity of the Island of Froya, and
interred in the Stavne Cemetery, Trondhiem, Norway. Froya is a small island off the
coast approx 104 miles of Bergen, Norway.
It was recorded in 1948 that the other missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.
421
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402898 Sergeant WILLS, Thomas Colin
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/178/284
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hudson
T 9333
60 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Hudson T 9333 of No 60 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off at 8.4pm on 8 March
1942, on a night training exercise over the sea, from which the aircraft failed to return.
Although an unknown aircraft was heard over the W/T, this was not however identified
with T 9333.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
402898 Sgt T.C.Wills, Pilot.
Sgt I.S.Woolf, Navigator.
403473 Sgt D.M.Hall,, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.
403441 Sgt P.C.Bucknell, Air Gunner.
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea.
422
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
432927 Warrant Officer WILMITH, Jack Edmund
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/1554
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Liberator
KL 671
159 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Liberator KL 671 of 159 Sqn RAF Far East Command, was detailed on 3 August 1945
for special duties in the Toungoo area north east of Rangoon. The aircraft took off at
0820 hours and was due over the drop zone at 1200 hours and then return at 1630 hours.
The aircraft failed to return to base from the mission.
The wreck of the aircraft was subsequently located on the west bank of the Irrawady
River near Bigaing at 19.47 N, 95.04 E. Six bodies were found, but they could not be
identified and were buried at the scene of the crash. The aircraft appears to have broken
up in flight.
Crew:
RNZAF
RAAF
RNZAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RNZAF
RAF
WO Gallagher, D J Captain (Pilot)
432927 WO Wilmith, J E (2nd Pilot)
FO Finlayson, D C (Navigator)
Flt Sgt Taylor, V G (Bomb Aimer)
Flt Sgt Jobson, J (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Hughes, E F (Flight Engineer)
WO McCarthy, C W (Nose Gunner)
Flt Sgt Alexander, S (Tail Gunner)
423
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405103 Sergeant WILSON, James Leslie
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/129 also 163/178/371
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HF 844
108 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HF 844 of 108 Sqn RAF took off at 1750 hours on 25 July 1942 from
Advanced Base IG 86. It later took off froman Advanced Landing Ground at 2152 hours
to carry out a night raid on Heraklion, an island to the south east of Greece. Nothing was
heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. The opposition
encountered at Heraklion was fairly severe.
Certain lights were reported by other aircraft as being green verey lights fired up from the
sea in a position 100 miles from the Egyptian coast and on track. It was considered
unlikely that it would be from a crew in a dinghy. ASR searches failed to find any trace
of the missing aircraft or crew.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
PO Clement, O H Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Smith, D (2nd Pilot)
PO Russell, H M (Navigator)
405103 Sgt Wilson, J L (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
403873 Sgt McPherson, C C (Front Gunner)
Sgt Condron, R G (Rear Gunner)
424
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400130 Sergeant WILSON, Norman Paterson McKirdy
Source:
NAA : A9301, Barcode 5549057
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
14 Sqn RAF
Summary:
A Blenheim aircraft of No 14 Sqn RAF based at Landing Ground 21, Egypt, was reported
missing on a mission to Crete on 26 May 1941.
Crew:
RAAF
400130 Sgt Wilson, N P McK (Wireless Operator Air Gunner).
No details are available on the above file re other crew members.
425
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405008 Sergeant WILSON, Ralph Alexander
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/178/369
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Commonwealth War Graves records.
Lancaster
R 5619
OL – S
83 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster R 5619 of 83 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Scampton, Lincoln, at 0032 hours
on the 26 July, 1942 to bomb Duisberg, Germany. The route was via Skegness, Leiden,
Corinchen, Duisberg. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not
return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
PO Whitehead, H H DFM Captain (Pilot)
405008 Sgt Wilson, R A (2nd Pilot)
FO Barber, H B (Navigator)
Flt Sgt Corfield, J W DFM (1st Wireless Operator)
Sgt Rudge, E A (2nd Wireless Operator)
Sgt McCarton, J (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Brash, R H (Rear Gunner)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had no known grave. Their names are
commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.
426
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400265 Sergeant WILSON, Robert Houston
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/178/215
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
Z 7683
55 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim Z 7683 of 55 Sqn RAF took off at 1655 hours on 29 October 1941 to carry out
a high level night attack on dumps in the Timini area, Libya. Nothing was heard from the
aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
SAAF
RAAF
RAAF
Lt Blair, D H (Pilot)
402121 Sgt Hoad, B P (Observer)
400265 Sgt Wilson, R H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
In 1948 it was recorded that the missing crew had no known grave.
427
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
402081 Sergeant WILSON, Stanley Maurice
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/178/248
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
L 9615
MP – X
76 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Halifax L 9615 of 76 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Middleton St George, near Barlington
Hampshire at 1122 hours on 30 December 1941 to attack the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau
at Brest, France. The aircraft was last seen after attacking the target 20 miles from the
French coast with smoke coming from the starboard outer and loosing height rapidly.
Crew:
RCAF
RCAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
PO King, D S Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Gates, W W (2nd Pilot)
402081 Sgt Wilson, S M (Observer)
Sgt Blair L (1st Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Tosk, H J (2nd Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Randall, F G (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Eaton, F J (Rear Gunner)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
428
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
412789 Flight Sergeant WILTSHIRE, Alfred Charles
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/43/283
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HK 629
142 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HK 629 of 142 Sqn RAF, British North African Forces, took off from RAF
Kairouan at 2005 hours on 5 August 1943 to attack the Messina beaches. The route was
from Base – Ustica – Vulcano Island – Target – and return the same route. Nothing was
heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
412789 Flt Sgt Wiltshire, A C Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Howard, R R E (Navigator Bombaimer)
Sgt Perkins, M T (Bombaimer)
Sgt StClaire, A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
410471 Flt Sgt Eaton, R L (Air Gunner)
429
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
411569 Leading Aircraftman WITTS, John
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/178/255
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Anson
1 (RCAF) Air Observers School
Summary:
An Anson of No 1 RCAF Air Observers School departed St John’s Quebec at 1800 hours
on 8 January 1942, on a routine night training flight to Malton a distance of 323 miles,
and then return. The aircraft reported from Montreal as setting course for Malton but it
failed to reach its destination.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RCAF
Mr Rutherdord, C B (Staff Pilot Civilian)
411569 LAC Witts, J (Trainee Air Observer)
403769 LAC Sutton, B B (Trainee Air Observer)
LAC Morgan, A M (Trainee)
In subsequent searches an aircraft fuselage was located on the shore of Lake Ontario near
Watertown, New York, but was not identified. No trace of any survivors was found.
430
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
426850 Warrant Officer WOOD, Albert Ernest
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/44/245
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
NG 230
EM – F
207 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster NG 230 of 207 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Spilsby, Lincolnshire, at
1716 hours on 5 March 1945 for a bombing raid on Bohlen, Germany. It carried 1 x
1000lb and 12 x 500lb bombs. The aircraft did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
437120 FO De Garis, W S, Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Burt, A S (Flight Engineer)
FO Morris, C (Navigator)
Flt Sgt Giles, S F (Air Bomber)
426850 WO Wood, A E (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)
Sgt Drysdale, W (Air Gunner)
Sgt Edge, W H (Air Gunner)
A 1950 report by the Missing Research & Enquiry Service advised that after prolonged
search and investigation to ascertain details as to how the member lost his life and to
recover the body for burial were unsuccessful and no news could be obtained of the
aircraft or any member of the crew.
431
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
411625 Warrant Officer WOODEY, Jack Edward
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/44/141
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Spitfire
MB 883
131 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Spitfire MB 383 of No 131 (County of Kent) Sqn RAF, from RAF Culmbead, near
Taunton, Somerset, was last seen on a Squadron mission east of Morlaix, France.
In a statement by Flt Lt Beadman (RAF) he reported :
“On the morning of 7 June 1944 I was flying in a section of 4 aircraft as No 3 with WO
Woodey flying No 4. The formation was flying east to west between St Briens and
Morlaix, France, with the object of shooting up railway engines and other military
targets. Woodey was flying quite close to my port side, and was in view except on
occasions when an attack was made and then the section was in loose line astern,
Woodey being the last to attack. During an attack on a train I noticed tracer coming up
from the ground which passed under my wings. The Flight Commander called up on R/T
as a safety check for myself and Woodey but there was no reply from Woodey. This was
the last occasion I saw him. During a later attack on a train, I noticed return fire at
someone behind me but whether or not it was Woodey I am unable to say. I heard
nothing on the radio to say he had been hit”.
Crew:
RAAF
411625 WO Woodey, J E (Pilot)
In 1949 it was recorded that WO Woodey had no known grave.
432
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404274 Sergeant WOODHEAD, Keith Moore
Source:
NAA : A705,163/179/96
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
W 5416
EP 104 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington W 5416 of 104 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Driffield at 2240 hours
on 19 August 1941 to bomb Kiel, Germany. The aircraft was last heard on W/T at 0318
hours on 20 August trying to raise Bircham Newton. Nothing further was heard from W
5416 and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RCAF
RCAF
404274 Sgt Woodhead, K M (Pilot)
PO Burton, W W
Sgt Haney, J
Sgt Johnson, H E
Sgt Marshall, D C
Sgt Rodgers, J G
The body of Sgt Haney (RAF) was washed ashore at Busum and was interred at Kiel War
Cemetery. Busum is on the north-west coast of Germany, 72 miles north of Bremen. It
was later recorded that the remaining missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.
433
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404047 Sergeant WOODROFFE, Gordon Burrows
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/179/92
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
AC 5990
113 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim AC 5990 of 113 Sqn RAF was shot down into the sea on 9 August 1941during
a night air mission at Mersa Matruh Hollow, Middle East.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
406037 Sgt Sands, W R (Pilot)
404047 Sgt Woodroffe, G B (Observer)
Sgt Greenless, A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Sands who baled out of the aircraft was in the water for eight hours before being
rescued. He formed the opinion that both Woodroffe and Greenless could not have
survived the crash. It was later recorded that the two missing crew members had lost their
lives at sea.
434
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
420511 Flight Sergeant WOODS, Alfred
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/44/131
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Marauder
FK 110
14 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Marauder FK 110 of 14 Sqn RAF, British North African Forces, was detailed to carry out
on 9 May 1944, a low level reconnaissance of enemy shipping in the vicinity of the
Ionian Island off the coast of Greece in the South Adriatic Sea. Nothing was heard from
the aircraft after take off and it failed to return from the mission. Subsequent ASR
searches failed to find the aircraft or any survivors.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
Flt Sgt Ross, J (Pilot)
Sgt Green, W N (Pilot)
420511 Flt Sgt Woods, A (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
420601 Flt Sgt Ryan, E J (Wireless Operator Air)
420694 Flt Sgt Mackrell, T (Wireless Operator Air)
Flt Sgt Andrews, H G (Wireless Operator Air)
All the crew have no known grave and their names are commemorated on the Malta
Memorial. The Memorial is situated in the area of Floriana and is easily identified by the
Golden Eagle which identified the column. It stands outside the main entrance at Valletta,
Malta.
435
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
400611 Warrant Officer WOODS, Clive Alfred
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/179/216
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HX 402
38 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HX 402 of 38 Sqn RAF, Middle East, took off from RAF Giancles on the
night of 23 September 1942 to carry out a torpedo operation against a target in a position
approx 60 miles north of Cape El Tin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off
and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
400273 Flt Sgt Flanagan, R V Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Archer, J F (2nd Pilot)
400611 WO Woods, C A (Observer)
Sgt Young, V (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Brogden, A C J (Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Flanagan (RAAF) who became a POW later made this statement “ Woods was
drowned when the plane crashed in the sea one and a half hours after take off and before
attacking the target. Both engines cut out at 1200 feet. He had just handed over the
controls to the 2nd Pilot and was discussing the course with Woods. He immediately
ordered crash landing stations, and moved aft to the wobble pump and petrol cocks.
While aft he removed the astro hatch, turned all the petrol cocks on and operated the
wobble pump for a short time. He then moved forward and stood in the 2nd pilot’s
position. From there he advised the 2nd pilot on the best method to make a safe landing.
The aircraft crashed approx 50 miles NNW of Mersa Matruh. He was knocked
unconscious and became entangled in wreckage. He managed to free himself and saw a
dinghy 50 yard away. The only members to survive the crash were Sgt Archer, Sgt
Brogden and himself.”
It was later recorded that WO Woods and Sgt Young had lost their lives at sea.
436
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
417551 Sergeant WORDEN, Frank Elliott
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/25/61 Commonwealth War Graves records.
W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses Operational Training Units, page 243,
Volume 7.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
BJ 587
12 OP TRAINING RAF
Summary:
Wellington BJ 587 No 12 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off from RAF Chipping
Warden, near Banbury Cross, on the night of 18/19th August 1943 on a non operational
“Bullseye” training exercise. The route was from Chipping Warden – Grantham –
Londonderry -56.10N, 20.10W – Rothsay – Belfast – Douglas – Honeybourne –
Chipping Warden. The aircraft did not return to base after the exercise.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
413624 Flt Sgt Lovelle-Draper, A M (Pilot)
422559 Sgt Hogan, A J (2nd Navigator)
417551 Sgt Worden, F E (Bomb Aimer)
415684 Sgt Russell, D (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt S W Wood
Sgt W D McDonald
The body of Sgt Russell (RAAF) was washed ashore at St Bees Head, and he is buried in
the Chester (Bacon) Cemetery, UK.
The body of Sgt Hogan (RAAF) was recovered from the sea at Port William,
Widtownshire.and he is buried in the Newton Stewart Cemetery, Scotland. .
It was recorded in 1949 that the remaining members of the crew had lost their lives at sea.
Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK
437
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
401333 Sergeant WOTHERSPOON, Alexander
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/179/196
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
IR 5605
61 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster IR 5605 of 61 Sqn RAF of RAF Station Syverston, Newark, Nottinghamshire,
took off from St Eval drome at 0808 hours on 19 August 1942 to carry out an anti sub
patrol in the Bay of Biscay. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did
not return to base.
Crew:
RNZAF
RAAF
RCAF
RCAF
RCAF
RCAF
RAF
Flt Sgt Haynes, O Captain (Pilot)
401333 Sgt Wotherspoon,, A (2nd Pilot)
WO Smith, G H (Navigator)
Flt Sgt Sheppard, E E (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Shepherd, A (2nd Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Flt Sgt Taylor, H G (Air Gunner)
Sgt King, D J (Air Gunner)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
438
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
416012 Sergeant WRENCH, Horace
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/44/12
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Hampden
L 4037
489 Sqn Royal New Zealand Air Force
Summary:
Hampden L 4037 of No 489 Sqn RNZAF crashed into the sea off Staxigoe, near Wick,
Scotland at 11am on 13 February 1943. The aircraft had taken off on a non operational
acceptance test to determine the flying qualities of the aircraft. After a few minutes the
aircraft was seen to crash for no apparent reason. At a subsequent Court of Inquiry it was
found that there was loss of control of the aircraft when one engine caught fire.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
416012 Sgt Wrench, H (Pilot)
Sgt Burt, R E (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
LAC Richardson, A (Fitter M/A)
It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
439
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
30881 Flight Sergeant WRIGHT, Frederick John
Source:
NAA : A9301, Barcode 4586444
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HX 744
1 Op Trg RAF
Summary:
Wellington HX 744 of No 1 Operational Training Unit RAF, based at RAF Station
Turnberry, at 0434 hours on 7 August 1943, was flying over the sea in northerly
direction about 600 yards south west of the airfield. The height was approx 100 feet and
the aircraft appeared to be losing height rapidly.
The target ship “Heliopolis” contacted base and stated that they believed an aircraft had
crashed into the sea. The body of Flt Sgt Wright was not recovered.
Crew:
RAAF
30881 Flt Sgt Wright, F J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Details of other crew members are not recorded in the above file.
440
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
414371 Sergeant WRIGHT, Stuart Ronald
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/13/22 Commonwealth War Graves records
W R Chorley :RAF Bomber Command Losses of the Second World War 1940-1947,
Page 207, Volume 7.
A ircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
DV 914
20 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington DV 914 of No 20 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off on 12 March 1943
on an operational training flight between the Mull of Kintyre and Scarpa Island, West
Scotland. The route was Base – Tiree – Mull of Kintyre – Scarpa – Base. No signals were
received from the aircraft and it failed to return to base from the exercise.
An aircraft was seen by ASR launches exercising in the vicinity of the Island of Tiree to
spin into the sea from a height of 10000 feet. It was also separately reported that an RAF
Corporal and a civilian had seen an aircraft crash into the sea off the West coast of
Scotland and this was considered by the unit to be DV 914.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAAF
Sgt Morris, G E (Pilot)
414371 Sgt Wright, S R (Navigator)
414548 Sgt Fitzerald, P J (2nd Navigator)
420978 Sgt McDonagh, J H W(Bombaimer)
Sgt Robinson, T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
412744 Sgt Stockbridge, H S (Air Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing
crew had lost their lives at sea. Their names have been commemorated on the Memorial
to the Missing, Runnymede, UK.
441
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
432329 Flight Sergeant YABSLEY, Raymond
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/45/68
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Whitley
Z 6739
19 Op Base RAF
Summary:
Whitley Z 6739 was detailed on the night of 27 August 1944 to carry out a bombing
exercise at Burghead and then a cross country operational training exercise from Base –
Benbecula – Cape Wrath – 58deg N 1 deg W – Inverurie – Base. On return to carry out
an air firing exercise at Spey Bay.
The aircraft took off at 2139 hours from RAF Kinloss, Scotland, completed the bombing
exercise and carried on with the cross country exercise. All early contacts were in order.
At 0140 hours on the 28th August Z6739 requested a fix from Leuchars and received a
first class bearing. Good contacts were maintained with the aircraft until 0231 hours, but
then nothing further was heard from the aircraft which did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
432340 Flt Sgt Caddy, P G (Pilot)
Sgt Finch W A B (Navigator)
Sgt Crawford, J (Air Bomber)
432329 Flt Sgt Yabsley, (Wireless Operator Air)
Sgt Truffet, F (Mid Upper Gunner)
Sgt Tibbles, R E (Rear Gunner)
Searches were carried out over the following days but no trace of the missing aircraft or
crew was found. In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
442
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
420098 Flight Sergeant YORK, Leslie Bennett
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/45/21
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Halifax
HR 749
51 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Halifax HR 749 of 51 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Snaith, near Goole, Yorkshire
at 2246 hours on the night of 25 July 1943 to attack Essen, Germany. Nothing was heard
from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
Sgt Jones, E J (Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Wallace, W C (Navigator)
Sgt Huddy, L W A (Air Bomber)
Sgt Reid, W (Wireless Operator)
Sgt Crowther, J (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Ritchie, J B (Mid Upper Gunner)
420098 Flt Sgt York, L B (Rear Gunner)
Following post war searches and enquiries it was recorded in 1950 that the missing crew
had no known grave.
443
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
414148 Warrant Officer YOUNG, Henry Kenneth
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/45/52
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Spitfire
JB 383
615 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Spitfire JB 383 of No 615 (County of Surrey) RAF, India, took off at 0500Z on 29 May
1944 from Patel to intercept Japanese aircraft. WO Young was flying No 2 in a Section
led by Flt Sgt McKay. The Section climbed to 8000 feet and saw nine aircraft flying in a
north westerly direction at the same height.
The Section then climbed to the west to 11000 feet when they were jumped by three
Oscars (Army 01) diving down from the 5 o’clock position. WO Young in JB 383 was
last seen taking evasive action by diving down steeply to port. Flt Sgt McKay called him
on R/T a few minutes later but there was no response.
Crew:
RAAF
414148 WO Young, H K (Pilot)
It was later established that the aircraft crashed very close to the village of Wangu
approx. 10 miles south west of Patel, Burma. Young was buried by Military authorities
on 31 May 1944. His unidentified remains were later reinterred in the Imphal military
cemetery.
444
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
404130 Sergeant YOUNG, Roland John
Source:
NAA : A705, 163/181/44
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Blenheim
Z 6645
203 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Blenheim Z 6645 of 203 Sqn RAF took off at 0600 hours on 29 September 1941, to carry
out a routine patrol in the Eastern Mediterranean. Nothing was heard from the aircraft
after take off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAF
PO Hurton, (Pilot)
404130 Sgt Young, R J (Observer)
Sgt Billingsley-Dooley, W (Wireless Operator air gunner)
The body of PO Hurton is buried at Haifa Khayat Beach Military Cemetery, Palestine. It
was recorded in 1948 that the two missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.
445
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
424503 Flight Sergeant YOUNG, Sydney James Herbert
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/40/182
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Anson
DJ 639
10 Radio School RAF
Summary:
Anson DJ 639 of 10 Radio School RAF took off from Carew Cherington, at 1357 hours
on a three hour W/T training flight over the Irish Sea. At 1500 hours a fix was obtained in
position 52.10N, 0603W. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft and it failed to
return to base.
An unconfirmed report from Eire authorities reported that an aircraft was seen to dive
into the sea from 4000 feet at 1516 hours some four miles south east of Greenore Point
and one mile north of Tusker Rock. The aircraft was a total loss and no parts were
recovered. The body of one crew member AC2 Carr (RAF) was picked up by launch at
1530 hours.
Crew:
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
FO Johnson, R I (1st Pilot)
424479 Flt Sgt Tudehope (1st Pupil Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
424503 Flt Sgt Young, S J H (2nd Pupil Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
AC2 Carr, R R (Passenger)
It was later recorded that the three missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.
Their names ar recorded on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK
AC2 Carr is buried in the Morval (St Wenna0 Church Cemetery, UK.
446
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
422296 Flight Sergeant REID, Ronald Arthur Lloyd
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/35/301
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HZ 703
8 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Wellington HZ 703 of 8 Sqn RAF, British Forces Aden, took off at 10.30pm at night on
27 June 1944 on a convoy escort patrol. At 0205 hours on 28 June, SS Highland Prince
reported that a twin engine aircraft had crashed in the sea, caught fire and exploded. The
reported position was 12.20N, 44.03E. The ship and the Navy searched for two hours but
no trace of any survivors was found. It was established that no other aircraft apart from
HZ 703 was in the vicinity at the time.
Crew:
RCAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
FO Ferguson, G W (Captain (Pilot)
FO Davis, H H G ((2nd Pilot)
Flt Lt Moeseley, E F (Navigator Bomb Aimer)
422296 Flt Sgt Reid, R A L (Wireless Operator Air) (ASVG)
418486 Flt Sgt Walker, G M (Wireless Operator Air) (ASVG)
425551 Flt Sgt Ryalls, C D (Wireless Operator Air) (ASVG)
It was later concluded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.
447
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
419171 Flight Sergeant FORBES, John Ronald
Source:
AWM 237 (65) NAA : A9301, Barcode 5534504 See also A705, 166/27/279 and
166/14/126 Commonwealth War Graves records.
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Wellington
HZ 129
15 Op Training RAF
Summary:
Wellington HZ 129 of No 15 Operational Training Unit RAF took off on 19 November
1943 from RAF Portreath for Gibraltar, in transit for Rabat Sali, North Africa. The
aircraft failed to arrive at Gibraltar.
Crew:
RAAF
RAAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
RAF
413628 Flt Sgt Matheson, R H (Pilot)
419171 Flt Sgt Forbes, J R (Air Gunner)
423208 Flt Sgt Murray, J A McC (Air Gunner)
Sgt Robinson, E A
Sgt Deveney, P J
Sgt Harris, L S
Sgt Smith, L T
Sgt Wooldridge, F J
All the crew have no known grave, and their names are commemorated on the Memorial
to the Missing, Runnymede, UK.
448
RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE
SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH
NO KNOWN GRAVE.
405586 Flight Sergeant HILEY, Alan Ernest
Source:
NAA : A705, 166/17/39
Aircraft Type:
Serial number:
Radio call sign:
Unit:
Lancaster
W 4313
SR – G
101 Sqn RAF
Summary:
Lancaster W 4313 of 101 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Holme-on-Spalding Moor,
Yorkshire, at 1731 hours on 11 February 1943 to bomb Wilhelmshaven, Germany. The
aircraft was due back at base at 2254 hours. Nothing was heard from W 4313 after take
off and it did not return to base.
Crew:
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
RAF
RAF
RAAF
405586 Flt Sgt Hiley, A E Captain (Pilot)
Sgt Spivey, E T (Flight Engineer)
Sgt Collins, R A (Navigator)
411372 Sgt Paterson, F H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)
Sgt Teviotdale, T (Bomb Aimer)
Sgt Bozier, R T (Mid Upper Gunner)
411259 Sgt Quinlan, S G (Rear Gunner)
Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was established that the aircraft
crashed and exploded on impact on the edge of a sandbank near the Isle of Juist at approx
8pm on 11 February 1943. Juist is one of the Friesian Island group of islands off the
German coast near the border with Holland. German documents had recorded that Sgt
Paterson had been buried at Dunes cemetery Juist, but this had been found to be
incorrect, and although it had been reported that six bodies of the crew had been
recovered from the sea and buried on the island, exhaustive searches and exhumations
had failed to establish the identity of any member of the crew.
It was subsequently recorded that the missing crew members had no known grave.
449