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Compilation Alan Storr 2008 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. This latter work is being progressively digitised by the AWM.

He has written and published eight books on RAAF fatalities in the eight RAAF Squadrons serving in RAF Bomber Command in WW2. The contents of these books have been digitised by the Australian War Memorial, and appear on the AWM Roll of Honour website.

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

RAAF WW2 FATALITIES BY CATEGORIES

CATEGORIES RAAF FATALITIES HOW ARRANGED

RAAF HQs, STATION HQs 317 BY CATEGORY THEN Personnel Depots, Recruit Centres, ALPHA NAME ORDER Reserve Sqns, Personnel pools, TMO’s, A/c Performance Unit, Civil Air Crew (RAAF Reserve)

RAAF BEAUFORT SQNS 458 BY SQNS & UNITS & SUPPORT UNITS THEN AIRCRAFT NO.

RAAF SQUADRONS

1 TO 9 450 BY SQNS THEN ALPHA NAME ORDER 11 TO 30 654 ” ” Vols 1 and 2 31 TO 70 251 ” ”

71 TO 107 207 ” ”

450 TO 486 370 ” ”

RNZAF Sqns 487, 489 3 ” ”

RAAF SUPPORT UNITS O T U’s 207 BY CATEGORY THEN FLYING SCHOOLS 444 ALPHA NAME ORDER GROUND TRAINING SCHOOLS 290 ” ”

Fighter Sectors, Flights, 95 ” ” Groups, Wings, Tactical, Reconnaissance

A/C Depots, RSU’s, Flying Boat 262 ” ” Repair Depots, Rescue & Com. Workshops & Maintenance

Survey Sqns/Wireless Stns, 197 ” ” Radar Stns, Air Ambulance, Airfield Construction, Defence Sqns, Base Units, Service Police, Canteens

NURSING SERVICE, WAAAF 62 ALPHA NAME ORDER

TOTAL CASUALTIES 3950 BY CATEGORIES LISTED (Alan Storr) 1/3/2010 REFERENCE SOURCES:

Australian War Memorial Roll of Honour print outs.

AWM 237 (65) RAAF WW2 Fatalities by Squadrons and Support Units.

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.

Veteran Affairs Nominal Roll 1939-1947 RAAF members.

Commonwealth War Graves records.

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, 062 RAAF fatalities in World War 2

comprising

5,450 fatalities in RAAF members attached to the RAF (primarily) or in some instances other Air Forces

and

5,612 RAAF fatalities in RAAF Squadrons and support units.

Sources: Australian War Memorial Fact sheet No19 AWM 237 (63) Airmen, (64) Officers: Register of Deaths and Burials of RAAF personnel who died on service 1939-1947. RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

6517 Aircraftsman Class 1 ALDERSON, Arthur Edward

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/87/108 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Narromine

Summary: On the 8th August 1940, FO Smales and AC1 Alderson were killed in an aircraft accident at Narromine NSW.

Crew: RAAF 603 FO Smales, H F (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 6517 AC1 A E Alderson, (Trainee Pilot)

FO Smales was cremated in the Rookwood Crematorium, Sydney. The Crematorium is within the Rookwood Necropolis, 11 miles west of Sydney. NSW. AC1 Alderson is buried in the Narromine War Cemetery, NSW.

1 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

439552 Leading Aircraftsman ALLAN, Ross Thompson

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/3/175 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 10th February 1944, LAC Allan, a Trainee Pilot, was injured when he fell from a building when on duty. He was with others, laying a tarpaulin over the roof of the Sergeants mess beer garden, and he fell at approx 1400 hours and struck the back of his head on the concrete floor below. He was admitted to the Bundaberg General hospital, but died of his injuries on the13th February 1944. LAC Allan is buried in the Bundaberg General Cemetery, Queensland.

2 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

408615 Flying Officer ALLEN, Alfred Jack

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/3/80 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: R6194 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 10th August 1943, Oxford R6194 and Oxford A7139 collided in the air in full flight, three were killed in the accident and two dangerously injured

Crew: R6194 RAAF 408615 FO Allen, A J (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 432525 LAC J G Leggoe, (Trainee Dual Pilot) Dangerously injured RAAF 20775 LAC A A Hughes, (Trainee Dual Pilot) Died of his Injuries

Crew: A7139 RAAF 271512 Flt Lt Howard, G H (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 432063 LAC D W Lynch, (Trainee Dual Pilot) Killed

Flt Lt Howard and LAC Lynch are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. FO Allen was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, Victoria LAC Hughes is buried in the Geelong Eastern Cemetery, Victoria.

3 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

407398 Flying Officer AMBROSE, David Searle

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/22/136 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-19 Radio call sign: Unit: Central Flying School Tamworth

Summary: On the 23rd May 1942, Wirraway A20-19 crashed at 1410 hours near Warral, NSW and both the crew were killed. The aircraft was seen to do a steeply banked turn at low altitude, when it flicked and crashed into the ground.

Crew: RAAF 407398 FO Ambrose, D S (Pilot) RAAF 403134 FO Fenly, L C (Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Tamworth General Cemetery, NSW

4 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

118367 Leading Aircraftsman ANDERSON, Charles William

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301 Barcode 4843662 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 7th May 1945, LAC Anderson, a Clerk General, was discharged from the RAAF being medically unfit for further service. He died on the 16th June 1947, and is buried in the Fawkner Memorial Park Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

5 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

401888 Sergeant ANDERSON, Finlay Emmerson

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/87/204 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2370 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 3rd June 1942, Anson W2370 crashed into Lake Albert near Meningie, Victoria when carrying out a forced landing at night. The four on board the aircraft lost their lives.

Crew: RAAF 403968 Sgt G Y Wadlow, (Pilot) RAAF 401888 Sgt F E Anderson, (Observer) RAAF 411254 Sgt J G Myers, (Wireless Air Gunner) RAAF 412898 LAC W S Butler, PAX

Sgt Wadlow is buried in the Adelaide (Centennial Park) Cemetery, South Australia.. Sgt Anderson is buried in the Benalla Cemetery, Victoria. Sgt Myers is buried in the Adelaide (West Terrace) Cemetery, South Australia. Sgt Butler is buried in the Young Cemetery, NSW.

6 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

408960 Leading Aircraftsman ANDERSON, Lancelot Murray

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/87/219 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-379 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 23rd January 1942, Wirraway A20-379 crashed at 1525 hours half a mile from the Deniliquin drome, and the two on board were killed. The aircraft was attempting a forced landing, when it spun in off a steep turn and dived into the ground, catching fire on impact.

Crew: RAAF 411753 Sgt F L Cunningham, (Safety Pilot) RAAF 408960 LAC L M Anderson, (2nd Pilot)

Sgt Cunningham is buried in the Northern Suburbs General Cemetery, Sydney, NSW. LAC Anderson is buried in the Deniliquin General Cemetery, NSW.

7 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

418784 Sergeant ANDERSON, William George

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/3/87 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Avro Cadet Trainer Serial number: A6-14 Radio call sign: Unit: CFS Tamworth

Summary: On the 3rd August 1943, an Avro Cadet Trainer A6-14 during a non operational training flight crashed at approx 1500 hours 13 miles south east of Tamworth, NSW. The crew of two were killed in the accident.

Crew: RAAF 419000 Sgt D T Green, (Pilot) RAAF 418784 Sgt W G Anderson, (2nd Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Tamworth Wear Cemetery, NSW.

8 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

5596 Leading Aircraftsman ANDREWS, Jack Clifford

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/87/66 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Narromine

Summary: On the 5th April 1941, LAC Andrews, a Flight Mechanic, was killed in a motor car accident, and two others were injured. The car overturned at 2000 hours, four miles from Trangie, NSW. LAC Andrews is buried in the Cheltenham Cemetery, Adelaide, South Australia.

9 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

38765 AircraftsmanClass 1 ANDREWS, Thomas Philip

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/87/114 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the3 14th October 1941, AC1 Andrews, a Storekeeper, died under an anaesthetic at approx 1410 hours, while undergoing an operation to remove a cartilage in the knee. He is buried in the Perth (Karakatta) General Cemetery, Western Australia.

10 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

2950 Squadron Leader ANNISON, Edward James DCM MM RVM

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/3/256 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: Advance Flyer & Refresher School Deniliquin

Summary: On the 27th June 1945, Sqn Ldr Annison (a CWO Eng) was admitted to No 6 RAAF Hospital, Heidelberg, suffering an Angina. He died at his home at 1550 hours on the 9th December 1945 of a coronary occlusion. He was cremated at the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, Victoria. Sqn Ldr Annison was born on 12th February 1891, and was 54 years of age when he died.

Citations: He served in WW1, and was awarded the Military Medal on 29th August 1918 serving as a Sgt with the Light Horse, 2nd Regiment. On the 25th February 1920 he was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal serving as a Sgt with the Light Horse, 4th Regiment. In 1927 he was awarded the RVM when serving as a Cpl in the RAAF as a Carpenter & Rigger, during the 1927 Royal Visit. (See Michael Maton: Page 101 Aust Recipients of Imperial Honours and Awards.)

11 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

295326 Flight Lieutenant ASHDOWN, Maxwell

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/4/248 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-182 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 2nd July 1945, Flt Lt Ashdown of 6SFTS was authorised by Sqn Ldr Stanley OC Flying control, Air Armament & Gas School, Nhill, to fly A20-182 from 1020 to 1130 hours on flying practice. With three other Trainee pilots from 6SFTS, Flt Lt Ashdown was present on the unit (A& G School, Nhill) for conversion to Wirraway aircraft.

At 1120 hours, Control received a phone call advising that A20-182 had crashed 1.5 miles east of Lorquon, Victoria, and the pilot was killed.

Crew: RAAF 295326 Flt Lt Ashdown, M (Pilot)

Flt Lt Ashdown is buried in the Nhill Public Cemetery, Victoria.

12 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

402271 Leading Aircraftsman ASPINALL, William Moore

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301 Barcode 5533779, Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 6 EFTS Tamworth

Summary: On the 9th October1940, LAC Aspinall, a Trainee Pilot died as a result of an aircraft accident. He is buried in the Northern Suburbs General Cemetery, Sydney NSW.

13 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

402429 Warrant Officer AVERILL, Kenneth

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/4//13 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-440 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 1st March 1943, Wirraway A20-440 and Wirraway A20-131 collided in the air during a formation break up, and two were killed in the accident.

A20-444 had been leading the formation. After the collision, A20-444 went into a dive. LAC Utting, the trainee in the aircraft, spoke to his instructor but got no reply. He recovered the machine to a normal attitude, and as the aircraft was vibrating badly he decided to make a forced landing. This he achieved successfully landing with the wheels retracted. On landing, he found WO Averill in the aircraft with fatal head injuries.

The crew of A20-131 baled out after the collision when the aircraft could not be recovered from a spin. FO Oberg landed safely, but LAC Rayner’s chute opened late and he was killed.

Crew: A20-440 RAAF 402429 WO K Averill, (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 426785 LAC W T Utting, (Trainee under Instruction) Safe

Crew: A20-131 RAAF FO Oberg, R (Instructor Pilot) Safe RAAF 426913 LAC L W Rayner, (Trainee under Instruction) Killed

Both WO Averill and LAC Rayner are buried in the Wagga Wagga General Cemetery, NSW.

14 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

28379 Aircraftsman Class 1 BALDOCK, Lionel Edward

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301 Barcode 4570118 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 9th August 1941, AC1 Baldock, a Flight Mechanic, died as a result of drowning in the Torrens River, Adelaide. He was endeavouring to rescue a little girl. Commonwealth War Graves do not record where AC1 Baldock is buried.

15 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

78991 Aircraftsman Class 1 BARKER, Herbert William

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/90/460 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 28th November 1942, AC1 Barker, a Storekeeper, lived out from the unit. He was taken ill at his residence in Bundaberg on the 27th November, and brought by Ambulance to SSQ. On the 28th November he was admitted to the Bundaberg General Hospital where he died of cerebra-spinal meningitis at 1550 hours that day.

AC1 Barker is buried in the Bundaberg General Cemetery, Queensland.

16 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

432300 Leading Aircraftsman BARNWELL, Jack Weston

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/5/238 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-150 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 1st August 1943, Wirraway A20-150 crashed one mile south east of the Uranquinty drome during a solo non-operational night training flight, and the pilot was killed. LAC Barnwell had received dual instruction in flying circuits and landings and was instructed to continue solo until 2200 hours. The weather was overcast but considered safe for trainee solo flying. At 2140 hours, the Flight commander decided to ground all aircraft for the night as the weather was deteriorating. All aircraft had been brought in from the flare path except A20-150 which was still in the air.

The Pilot made quite a good approach to the flare path until he reached an approx height of 50 feet, and adjacent to No 2 flare, when he opened the throttle and proceeded to go around again. This circuit was made very tight and at a height of some 3/400 feet. When turning from downwind into wind, for his approach, he made a very steep turn, the nose dropped, the turn continued, and the aircraft disappeared from view approx 1 miles south east of the drome. Two parties set out and found the crashed aircraft at 2210 hours with the pilot killed.

Crew: RAAF 432300 LAC J W Barnwell, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Barnwell is buried in the Wagga Wagga General Cemetery, NSW.

17 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

10056 Pilot Officer BAYLISS, Lenn

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: 32/10/3058 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-29 Radio call sign: Unit: 4 EFTS Mascot

Summary: On the 18th November 1940, at 1205 hours, when the aircraft was flying over Randwick, the pilot, PO Bayliss, fell out of A17-29 from the inverted position while doing a slow roll, and he was fatally injured.

Crew: RAAF 10056 PO Bayliss, L (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 404321 LAC A W Clark, (Trainee Pilot) Uninjured

PO Bayliss was cremated at the Sydney (Eastern Suburbs) Crematorium, NSW. His name is commemorated on the NSW Cremation Memorial, Sydney.

18 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

409885 Leading Aircraftsman BELL, John Douglas

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/91/602 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-8 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 27th October 1942, Wirraway A20-8 during a solo training flight, crashed at 1445 hours seven miles west of the Deniliquin drome, and the pilot was killed.

Crew: RAAF 409885 LAC J D Bell, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Bell is buried in the Ararat General Cemetery, Victoria.

19 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

7198 Laeding Aircraftsman BELL, Orten Clem

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301 Barcode 4555727 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 21st July 1941, LAC Bell, a Flight Mechanic, was discharged medically unfit from the RAAF, suffering from tuberculosis. On the 27th February 1946, he died from his illness and is buried in the Perth (Karrakatta) General Cemetery, W Aust.

20 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

18764 Leading Aircraftsman BELTZ, Eric Louis

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/91/97 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 10th July 1941, LAC Beltz was seriously injured in a ground accident, and suffered 2nd degree burns from which he died later that day. The cause of the accident was that an explosion followed the igniting of a four gallon tin of Duco thinner. The tin ignited when LAC Beltz poured the thinner on a Buffalo Blast forge in an attempt to relight the forge. Two other airmen were injured in the blast.

LAC Beltz is buried in the Geraldton War Cemetery, Western Australia.

21 2RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

411272 Flying Officer BENNETT, Richard Trevor

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/5/361 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A19-513 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Narromine

Summary: On the 2nd December 1943, Tiger Moth A19-513 during a non-operational cross country exercise, crashed at 0835 hours six miles north of Orange, NSW, and the pilot was killed. The flight commenced at 0720 hours and the Route was Narromine, Orange, Mudgee and Narromine. At approx 0930 hours a telephone call from the VOAC Orange reported that an aircraft had crashed on Mr McKay’s property six miles north of Orange, and one crew member was killed and another seriously injured in the crash.

Eye witnesses stated that “the aircraft appeared to have engine trouble and the pilot had attempted a forced landing. The aircraft made an approach to a field but overshot, and while making a further circuit and during a low turn into the field, the nose dropped and the aircraft dived into the ground.”

It was considered that “engine failure appeared to be a contributory factor, although there appeared to be sufficient power for the instructor to make a 2nd attempt at landing, and loss of flying speed in a turn close to the ground, would appear to be the cause of the accident.”

Crew: RAAF 411270 FO Bennett, R T (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 436202 FO Mahy, V E (Trainee Dual Pilot) Seriously injured

FO Bennett is buried in the Narromine War Cemetery, NSW.

22 2RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

426773 Leading Aircraftsman BERNDT, Thomas Desmond

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301 Barcode 5526120 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A11-113 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Narromine

Summary: On the 23rd December 1943, at 1920 hours, Tiger Moths A11-113 and A17-472 collided at a height of 800 feet in the circuit area of Narromine drome, and both pilots were killed in the accident. The aircraft crashed approx 1,5 miles NNE of the north eastern boundary of the drome.

Crew: A11-113 RAAF 426773 LAC T D Berndt, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: A17-472 RAAF 426590 LAC T J Hempenstall, (Trainee Pilot)

Both pilots are buried in the Narromine General Cemetery, NSW.

23 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

423599 Leading Aircraftsman BEVES, Norman Cecil

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/91/643 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-444 Radio call sign: Unit: 10 EFTS Temora

Summary: On the 8th December 1942, Tiger Moths A17-444 and A17-332 collided in mid air at 2010 hours during circuit and landings practice flight, and all the crews were killed. The collision occurred in mid air at a height of 1,000 feet, and the aircraft crashed in Brays paddock, one mile south east of the Temora drome.

Crew: A17-444 RAAF 423599 LAC N C Beves, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: A17-332 RAAF 411915 Sgt S L Jay, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 422405 LAC K B Bussell, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

The three members are buried in the Temora General Cemetery, NSW.

24 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

413515 Pilot Officer BINGHAM, Clive Frederick

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9300 Barcode 5387990, Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 30th September 1942, PO Bingham, a Pilot of 68 Reserve Squadron, Georgina, was killed in an aircraft accident at Pt Maud, Western Australia. He is buried in the Geraldton War Cemetery, Western Australia.

25 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

406823 Flying Officer BIRT, Lynton Vennell Howard

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/124/199 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2262 Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 9th October 1942, Anson W2262 was authorised to carry out a D/F exercise and ZZ approaches at Pearce, Western Australia. At approx 1242 hours the aircraft crashed near Clackline, WA, and all on board were killed. PO Sedunary, a crew member, was not in the aircraft at the time of the crash. The aircraft took off from Pearce and flew a course of 111 degrees true for approx 20 minutes on receipt of that baring from the No 1 D/F station at Pearce. After receiving permission to make a ZZ approach, the aircraft commenced a left hand turn. While in this turn, the aircraft went into a steep dive with its engines racing. As the dive continued the aircraft banked steeply to port, momentarily flattened out, and eventually side slipped into the ground.

Crew: RAAF 415294 G L Debenham, (Pilot) (No 4 SFTS Geraldton) RAAF 401823 L V H Birt, (Observer) ( “ “ ) RAAF 414073 N L Nixon, (Observer) ( “ “ ) RAAF 415255 Sgt K C Hugo, (Wireless Air Gunner) (of 68 Sqn)

All the crew are buried in the Perth War Cemetery and Annex, Western Australia.

26 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

426520 Sergeant BISHOP, Maurice Arthur

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/5/248 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: T 5412 Radio call sign: Unit: 10 EFTS Temora

Summary: On the 14th August 1943, Tiger Moth T5412 crashed at 1600 hours, during a non- operational instructional flight. The aircraft crashed 12 miles North West of the Temora main drome, and the crew of two were killed.

Crew: RAAF 426520 Sgt M A Bishop, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 433227 LAC K Mac A Rosser, (Trainee Pilot)

Both Sgt Bishop and LAC Rosser are buried in the Temora General Cemetery, NSW.

27 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

409376 Leading Aircraftsman BLACK, John Robert

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/92/129 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AT 439 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 12rh April 1942, Oxford AT439 when on a cross country flight, crashed at 1105 hours, three miles north east of Beech Forest, Victoria. The crew of three were killed.

Crew: RAAF 407908 Sgt T W Penn, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 409376 LAC J R Black, (Pupil Pilot) RAAF 408284 LAC R E Johnston, (Pupil Pilot)

Sgt Penn is buried in the Adelaide (Centennial Park) Cemetery, South Australia. LAC Black is buried in the Williamstown General Cemetery, Victoria. LAC Johnston was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium and his name is recorded on the Victorian Cremation Memorial.

28 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

558 Flying Officer BLACK, Patrick Adair

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/24/120 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-201 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 SFTS Amberley

Summary: On the 12th February 1941, Wirraways A20-201 and A20-1388 crashed at 1245 hours at 3SFTS Amberley in a collision on the ground. The aircraft collided head on, when one of the aircraft taking off struck the other aircraft taxing back after landing.

Crew: A0-201 RAAF 558 FO Black, P A (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 406250 LAC R A Humphry, (Trainee Pilot) Killed

Crew: A20-1388 RAAF 1945 Flt Sgt N Watson (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 406229 LAC B P Scott, (Trainee Pilot) Seriously Injured

FO Black and LAC Humphry are buried in the Ipswich General Cemetery, Queensland. Flt Sgt Watson was cremated in the Mt Thompson Crematorium, Brisbane, and his name is recorded on the Queensland Cremation Memorial, Brisbane.

29 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

407163 Sergeant BLACKER, Ian Bruce

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/92/87 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W 2254 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 14th October 1941, while flying with a pupil on the usual circuits in Anson W2254, the aircraft had reached a position to make a glide in to land, when it collided with another aircraft making a similar circuit. Both machines crashed at 8.30am and both crews were killed.

Crew: W2254 RAAF 407163 Sgt I B Blacker, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 408654 LAC B G Hutchins, (Pupil Pilot)

Crew: W2257 RAAF 402680 PO Somerville, C E (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 416356 LAC J G Maslen, (Pupil Pilot)

Sgt Blacker is buried in the Tumby Bay General Cemetery, South Australia. LAC Huchins is buried in the Burwood General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. PO Somerville was cremated in the Soth Aust Government Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the South Australian Cremation Memorial. LAC Maslen is buried in the Port Adelaide & Suburban Cemetery, South Australia.

30 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

423303 Leading Aircraftsman BLOOM, Lionel Leslie

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/5/141 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-582 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 23rd April 1943, Wirraway A20-582 crashed at 0845 hours seven miles north of Marrar, NSW near Murrrale Bale homestead, and the pilot was killed. During a solo cross country low level flight, the aircraft hit some trees and crashed, burning on impact.

Crew: RAAF 423303 LAC L L Bloom (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Bloom is buried in the Wagga Wagga General Cemetery, NSW.

31 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

165185 Aircraftsman 1 BOEKENSTEIN, Olaf Ruprecht

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/6/734 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 11 EFTS Benalla

Summary: On the 9th October 1944, at approx 1600 hours, AC1 Boekenstein (a Pilot trainee), together with AC1 Pauwels and AC1 Mullins were swimming in the Broken River, Benalla below the main bridge. Both Pauwels and Mullins left the water and Boekenstein was attempting to swim to the far bank, when they noticed he was in difficulties.

Pauwels the better swimmer immediately went to his assistance and Mullins went to the nearest phone 100 yards away and phoned the civil police. Boekenstein apparently held on to Pauwels for a time, but when Pauwels broke free, Boekenstein disappeared. Pauwels dived several times but the water was 25 feet deep, and as he was becoming exhausted he returned to the bank of the river. The police and an Air Force party arrived and dragging commenced. Boekensteins body was recovered at 1715 hours. The group were swimming in part of the river authorised for the purpose by the local Town Council.

AC1 Boekenstein is buried in the Benalla War Cemetery, Victoria.

32 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

26473 Leading Aircraftsman BOLAND, Milton Desmond

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/93/478 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AS694 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 7th April 1942, Oxford AS694 crashed at 1515 hours one miles south west of Point Cook, Victoria. The aircraft collided with another aircraft while carrying out formation flying practice. AS694 was struck by the aircraft following it in formation, and it dived into the ground. All the crew were killed in the accident.

Crew: RAAF 407311 FO Newall, L V (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 409286 LAC R W Bradford, (Pupil Pilot) RAAF 26473 LAC M D Boland, (Pupil Pilot)

FO Newall was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the Victoria Cremation Memorial. LAC Bradford is buried in the Springvale Necropolis, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Boland is buried in the Mitcham Cemetery, Adelaide, South Australia.

33 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

404011 Leading Aircraftsman BORAIN, James Oliver

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301, Barcode 5549117 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 6th September 1940, LAC Borain (a Trainee Pilot) was killed in an aircraft accident. He was cremated at the Mount Thompson Crematorium, Queensland. The Crematorium is at Mt Gravatt a suburb of Brisbane.

34 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

55153 Aircraftsman Class 1 BOWN, Sydney Keith

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/93/551 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 10 EFTS Temora

Summary: On the 20th June 1942, AC1 Bown, an aircraft hand, suffered an obscure collapse and died while travelling from Melbourne without an escort party (from AWL). He is buried in the Pine Ridge Memorial Park, Victoria.

35 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

Air Cadet BOWRON, Robin Overton

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/6/54 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 EFTS Parafield

Summary: On the 19th March 1940, Air Cadet Bowron and FO Cox of 1 EFTS Parafield were both killed in a cross country training flight, when the aircraft crashed three miles from Salisbury, South Australia.

Crew: RAAF FO Cox C, (Pilot) RAAF Air Cadet R O Bowron, (Trainee Pilot)

Both the crew were cremated at the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, and their names are recorded on the Victorian Cremation Memorial.

36 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

409286 Leading Aircraftsman BRADFORD, Robert Watson

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/93/478 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AS694 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 7th April 1942, Oxford AS694 crashed at 1515 hours one miles south west of Point Cook, Victoria. The aircraft collided with another aircraft while carrying out formation flying practice. AS694 was struck by the aircraft following it in formation, and it dived into the ground. All the crew were killed in the accident.

Crew: RAAF 407311 FO Newall, L V (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 409286 LAC R W Bradford, (Pupil Pilot) RAAF 26473 LAC M D Boland, (Pupil Pilot)

FO Newall was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the Victoria Cremation Memorial. LAC Bradford is buried in the Springvale Necropolis, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Boland is buried in the Mitcham Cemetery, Adelaide, South Australia.

37 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

431472 Flying Officer BRADSHAW, Donald Peter

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/6/80 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-696 Radio call sign: Unit: 10 EFTS Temora

Summary: On the 3rd March 1945, Tiger Moth A17-696 took off at 0715 hours, on a non-operational training flight. It crashed at 0750 hours; two miles west of the Temora drome, and the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 431472 FO Bradshaw, D P (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 449704, LAC R Swift (Trainee Dual Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Temora General Cemetery, NSW.

38 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

412891 Leading Aircraftsman BRADY, Patrick John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/93/651 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2373 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 7th September 1942, Anson W2373 had just taken off at about 2200 hours, from Mallala drome, prior to doing a night cross country flight, and had climbed to about 600 feet, when the aircraft commenced to turn. Immediately after, the aircraft was seen to be in difficulties, and eventually crashed to the ground with the pilot being killed.

Crew: RAAF 412891 LAC P J Brady, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Brady is buried in the Mallala War Cemetery, South Australia.

39 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

409021 Leading Aircraftsman BRESNAHAN, Daniel

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/93/395 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 11th January 1942 LAC Bresnahan, an Aircrew Trainee Pilot, cut his hand whilst swimming, and he reported to SSQ, Mallala on the 12th January to have it treated. The Medical Officer found it necessary to give an anti tetanus injection, which was done after first testing the patient and obtaining the required negative result. LAC Bresnahan collapsed almost immediately and in spite of all efforts to revive him, he failed to respond. He had recently qualified for the award of the flying badge, and had completed half the SFTS course at Mildura. LAC Bresnahan is buried in the Fawkner Memorial Park Cemetery.

40 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

416203 Sergeant BROADFOOT, Colin McDonald

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/93/585A Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A72-236 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 EFTS Parafield

Summary: On the 20th July 1942, Tiger Moth A72-236 crashed into an outgoing aircraft while coming in to land, and the Pilot was killed. A17-234 was taking off as A72-236 was coming into land. Both aircraft converged at approx 100 feet, and in an attempt to avoid an accident, A72-236 turned steeply climbing left, stalled and crashed.

Crew: A72-236 RAAF 416203 Sgt C McD Broadfoot, (Instructor Pilot) Killed

Crew: A17-234 RAAF 417194 LAC I McI Hunter, (Trainee Pilot) Seriously Injured * * Died of his injuries on 28th July1942.

Sgt Broadfoot is buried in the Mitcham Cemetery, Adelaide, South Australia. LAC Hunter is buried in the North Road Anglican Cemetery, Adelaide, South Australia.

41 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

407779 Leading Aircraftsman BROCK, Halcombe George

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/93/253 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-268 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 2nd August 1941, Wirraways A20-268 and A20-269 collided while changing position during formation flying. Both aircraft crashed at 0935 hours two miles east of the You Yangs, Victoria, and LAC Brock was killed in the accident

Crew: A20-268 RAAF 401137 LAC M McGuire, (Pupil Pilot) Injured RAAF 407779 LAC H G Brock, (Pupil Pilot) Killed

Crew: A20-269 RAAF 407785 LAC C Fallon, (Pupil Pilot) Injured RAAF 407792 LAC J D Hill, (Pupil Pilot) Injured

LAC Brock was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, Victoria. The other three baled out by parachute.

42 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

423614 Leading Aircraftsman BROOKER, Frank Lloyd

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/6/70 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-433 Radio call sign: Unit: 10 EFTS Temora

Summary: On the 10th March 1943, Tiger Moth A17-433 crashed at 1015 hours, approx seven miles south east of the Temora drome, in a paddock the property of Mr Vogele “Malkeith” Temora. Both the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 405960 Sgt C F Plisch, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 423164 LAC F L Brooker, (Trainee Pilot)

Both are buried in the Temora General Cemetery, NSW.

43 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

67268 Corporal BROWN, Robert William

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/6/867 Part 1 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 8 EFTS Narrandera

Summary: On the 27th December 1944, the body of Cpl Brown, a Carpenter General, was found by his wife in the garage at their home in Gladesville, Sydney. He died from a self inflicted gun shot wound. He was cremated at the Rookwood Crematorium, Sydney the Crematorium lies within the boundaries of the Rookwood Necropolis, 11 miles west of Sydney.

44 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

7186 Leading Aircraftsman BROWN, Sydney

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/’93/455 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 22nd March 1942, LAC Brown, a Cook, was admitted to AGH Hollywood, WA, dangerously ill with Anuria Pulmonary Oedema. He died at 1630 hours on the 23rd March 1942, and is buried in the Fremantle Cemetery, Western Australia.

45 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

422418 Leading Aircraftsman BRUCE, Robert Wallace

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9300 Barcode 5534772 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: A2336 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 29th March 1944, Oxford A2336 crashed at 0115 hours in an air accident at Point Cook and the Trainee Pilot was killed.

Crew: RAAF 422418 LAC R W Bruce, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Bruce is buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

46 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

118065 Leading Aircraftsman BUCKLEY, Robert Andrew

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/6/1494 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 11EFTS Benalla

Summary: On the 29th August 1946, LAC Buckley was admitted to No 6 RAAF Hospital suffering from Synonova of the forearm with Secondaries. He died at 0630 hours on the 22nd October 1946, and is buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

47 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

80925 Aircraftsman Class 1 BUHLER, Ivan Frederick

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/94/261 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 9 EFTS Cunderdin

Summary: AC1 Buhler, a Clerk Stores, was undergoing treatment at the Infectious Diseases Hospital, Subiaco, WA, for acute America Poliomyelitis. He died of the illness at 1015 hours on the 29th July 1942, and was cremated at the Perth (Karrakatta) Crematorium, Western Australia.

48 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

80389 Aircraftsman Class 1 BUNCE, Ernest Alfred

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/6/332 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 23 November 1943, AC1 Bunce, a Fitter 11E, was admitted to No 110 AGH Hollywood, seriously ill with concussion. At 1520 hours, he was proceeding home riding his motor cycle in Osborne Park, and was injured in an accident, and conveyed to hospital. He died later that evening and is buried in the Perth War Cemetery and Annex, W. Aust.

49 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

411993 Sergant BURKE, Bruce Clifford

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/94/266 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-333 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 26th August 1942, Wirraways A20-333 and A20-342 collided in mid air at 1345 hours. Both aircraft crashed five miles North West of Wanganella, NSW and both crews were killed.

Crew: A20-333 RAAF 411681 Sgt G B Willcocks, (Pilot) RAAF 411993 Sgt B C Burke, (Wireless Air Gunner)

Crew: A20-342 RAAF 405723 Sgt D N Cullen, (Pilot) RAAF 413812 Sgt A D Woods, (Wireless Air Gunner)

Sgt Cullen and Sgt Woods are buried in the Deniliquin General Cemetery, NSW. Sgt Willcocks is buried in the Glen Innes General Cemetery, NSW. Sgt Burke is buried in the Northern Suburbs General Cemetery, NSW.

50 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

408103 Flying Officer BURROWS, Donald Terence

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/6/296 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-216 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 8th October 1943, Wirraway A20-216 crashed at 0430 hours during a non- operational night circuits and landings practice, and both the crew were killed. The aircraft struck the ground at high speed in a vertical direction, five miles south west of the Uranquinty drome.

Crew: RAAF 408103 FO Burrows, D T (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 432979 LAC H N Slapp, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

51 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

136345 Leading Aircraftsman BUSH, John Barrister

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/6/868 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 27th December 1944, LAC Bush, an Electrician, was admitted to No 1 RAAF Hospital Wagga Wagga, suffering from acute Vicerative Endocarditis. He died at 1005 hours on the 11th January 1945, and is buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

52 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

422405 Leading Aircraftsman BUSSELL, Kent Bligh

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/91/643 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-444 Radio call sign: Unit: 10 EFTS Temora

Summary: On the 8th December 1942, Tiger Moths A17-444 and A17-332 collided in mid air at 2010 hours during circuit and landings practice flight, and all the crews were killed. The collision occurred in mid air at a height of 1,000 feet, and the aircraft crashed in Brays paddock, one mile south east of the Temora drome.

Crew: A17-444 RAAF 423599 LAC N C Beves, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: A17-332 RAAF 411915 Sgt S L Jay, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 422405 LAC K B Bussell, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

The three members are buried in the Temora General Cemetery, NSW.

53 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

416928 Leading Aircraftsman BUSSENSCHUTT, Douglas Linden

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/94/240 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: A5687 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 28th June 1942, Oxford A5687 crashed 200 yards south east of the Werribee Satellite drome, Victoria; the aircraft collided with another aircraft when both were approaching to land.

Crew: A5687 RAAF 416928 LAC D L Bussenschutt, (Trainee Pilot) Killed

Crew: R6191 RAAF 410123 LAC A E Southern, (Trainee Pilot) Seriously Injured

LAC Bussenschutt is buried in the Kadina Cemetery, South Australia. Kadina is about 167kms North West of Adelaide.

54 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

412898 Leading Aircraftsman BUTLER, William Stanley

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/87/204 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2370 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 3rd June 1942, Anson W2370 crashed into Lake Albert near Meningie, Victoria when carrying out a forced landing at night. The four on board the aircraft lost their lives.

Crew: RAAF 403968 Sgt G Y Wadlow, (Pilot) RAAF 401888 Sgt F E Anderson, (Observer) RAAF 411254 Sgt J G Myers, (Wireless Air Gunner) RAAF 412898 LAC W S Butler, PAX

Sgt Wadlow is buried in the Adelaide (Centennial Park) Cemetery, South Australia.. Sgt Anderson is buried in the Benalla Cemetery, Victoria. Sgt Myers is buried in the Adelaide (West Terrace) Cemetery, South Australia. Sgt Butler is buried in the Young Cemetery, NSW.

55 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

416929 Leading Aircraftsman CADD, Leslie

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/95/331 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: R3542 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 4th August 1942 Anson R3542 and Anson W2165 collided at 0950 hours over Monteith, South Australia, when in full flight during formation flying. R3542 crashed into the Murray River in water 90 feet deep, and W2165 crashed on the river bank. All on board both aircraft lost their lives in the accident.

Crew: R3542 RAAF 2366 FO Wotzko, L V (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413187 Sgt G Cooper, (Observer) RAAF 416929 LAC L Cadd, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 416956 LAC N D Haines, (Trainee Pilot)

FO Wotzko and LAC Haines have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is located in the Sydney War Cemetery which is about 17kms west of Sydney. Sgt Cooper and LAC Cadd are buried in the Murray Bridge Cemetery, South Australia.

Crew: W2165 RAAF 406625 Sgt H G Phillips, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413018 Sgt M J Nichols, (Observer) RAAF 409484 LAC C McC Say, (Pupil Pilot) RAAF 420056 LAC J B Richardson, (Pupil Pilot)

Sgt Phillips was cremated at the South Aust Government Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the South Aust Cremation Memorial. Sgt Nichols is buried in the South Maitland (Kurri Kurri) Cemetery, NSW. LAC Richardson and LAC Say are buried in the Mallala War Cemetery, South Australia.

56 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

424963 Sergeant CAIGER, Victor Keith

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/7/158 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: BF983 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 4th August 1943, Oxford BF983 and Boomerang A46-103 collided in the air, the three in the Oxford were killed in the accident, and Sqn Ldr Harper, the pilot of the Boomerang was uninjured. Sgt Caiger a Pilot in the Oxford was under dual instruction for a beam approach exercise. The Oxford, (BF983) was flying on a southerly course 1.5 miles west of Laverton drome. Sqn Ldr Cuming was flying a Wirraway A20-526 and was overtaking the Oxford during the course of photographing the Boomerang, but was well clear on the starboard side of the Oxford. Apparently the Wirraway was obscuring Sqn Ldr Harper’s view of the Oxford, and just as the Wirraway drew level with the Oxford, Sqn Ldr Harper changed position from the starboard side to the port side of the Wirraway in order to place himself in the correct position re the camera and the sun.

His attention was momentarily focussed on the Wirraway, and he did not see the Oxford until his port wing tip was virtually hitting the tail of the Oxford. The wing cut through the rear fuselage of the Oxford causing it to spin to the ground. The Boomerang was badly damaged but Sqn Ldr Harper landed the aircraft back at the Laverton drome.

Crew: RAAF 411141 Flt Sgt T H Hart, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 424963 Sgt V K Caiger, (Pilot under dual instruction) RAAF 424859 Sgt K G Dawson

All the crew are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne. Victoria.

57 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

64456 Leading Aircraftsman CAMERON, James Graham

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/7/969 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-608 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 11th April 1944, Wirraway A20-608 was engaged in a solo night lying exercise. After a bad landing, the pilot attempted to go round again, and apparently lost control of the aircraft. It crashed at 1940 hours 2 miles south of the Uranquinty drome, and the pilot was killed.

Crew: RAAF 64456 LAC J G Cameron, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Cameron is buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

58 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

425831 Leading Aircraftsman CAMPBELL, Colin Arthur

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/7/111 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-337[ Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Narromine

Summary: On the 24th May 1943, LAC Campbell, a Trainee Pilot, was authorised to fly Tiger Moth A171-337 from 1445 to 1630 hours in a south westerly direction, and carry out medium turns, powered approach and landings, cautionary landings, steep turns, climbing turns, forced landings and aerobatics. At approx 1600 hours a phone call from Mr Gainsford of Backwater road reported that an aircraft had crashed adjacent to his home, and an ambulance and Medical Officer was despatched to the scene. Eye witnesses stated that the aircraft stalled at a low altitude and dived into the ground. It was apparently doing aerobatics at not less than the authorised height, after which the aircraft lost height quite normally down to approx 500/1000 feet. It then flew in a westerly direction across the house, turned through a normal of 180 degrees, when the aircraft appeared to lose height and crashed. It was considered that engine failure was not a contributory factor.

Crew: RAAF 425831 LAC C A Campbell, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Campbell is buried in the Narromine War Cemetery, NSW..

59 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

36981 Aircraftsman Class 1 CANTY, James Bernard

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/95/213 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: Central Flying School Tamworth

Summary: On the 27th January 1942, AC1 Canty, a Clerk Stores, died of Mediastinal Emphysema at the Camden District Hospital.He is buried in the Woronora General Cemetery, Sutherland, NSW.

60 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

6239 Leading Aircraftsman CAREW, Dominick Thomas

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 53/1/743 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Narromine

Summary: On the 6th September 1940, LAC Carew a Trainee Pilot, died from pneumonia, while on leave in Brisbane. Commonwealth War Graves does not record where LAC Carew is buried.

61 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

3123 Corporal CARROLL, Maurice Mannix

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/95/133 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 6th July 1941, Cpl Carroll, a boiler Attendant, was killed in a motor car accident at Wagga at 1800 hours. Others in the car were injured. Cpl Carroll is buried in the Boroondara General Cemetery, Victoria.

62 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

6732 Sergeant CASSIDY, Frederick Reginald

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/95/289 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2435 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: The Light House keeper at Cape Willoughby Light House, Kangaroo Island, South Aust, reported that at about 1815 hours on the 3rd June 1943, an aircraft flying low from the south east circled the Light House three or four times flashing a Morse lamp, and that it headed out to sea in a south east direction about 1835 hours. The aircraft alighted in the sea about 1907 hours, and in response to a Morse lamp signal requesting what was required, replied –“Boat” The Light House keeper had no boat. The aircraft was about half a mile south east of the Lighthouse, and was drifting to the south, and it was lost sight of about one mile south of the Tower. Extensive air and naval searches were conducted for the missing aircraft and crew but no trace was found. On the 7th June 1942, the search was abandoned.

Crew: RAAF 6732 Sgt F R Cassidy, (Pilot) RAAF 405840 Sgt K W Hailey, (Observer) RAAF 405506 Sgt D R Stewart, (Wireless Air Gunner) RAAF LAC L F Pickup, (Trainee Pilot) PAX

The missing crew have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial which stands in the Sydney War Cemetery. The Cemetery is 17kms west of Sydney.

63 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

411481 Sergeant CASSIDY, Ralph Beverley

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/140/113 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: DG819 Radio call sign: Unit: 67 Sqn

Summary: On the 2nd November 1942, Anson DG819 crashed at Mallacoota, Victoria, when the aircraft overran the runway, crashed into a quarry and 3 x 100 lb anti sub bombs exploded. All the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 401856 Sgt J H Sawrey, (Pilot) (of No 6 SFTS Mallala) RAAF 411481 Sgt R B Cassidy, (Observer) (of No 6 SFTS Mallala) RAAF 405485 Sgt L A Lupton, (Wireless Air Gunner) (of 67 Sqn)

Sgt Sawrey is buried in the Booroondara General Cemetery, Victoria. Both Sgt Lupton and Sgt Cassidy are buried in the Bairnsdale War Cemetery, Victoria.

64 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

425600 Leading Aircraftsman CAVILL, James Scott

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/7/35 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: DJ228 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 25th February 1943, Anson DJ228 took off at 1945 hours on a night training exercise. The two trainee Pilots on board were instructed to change duties as Pilot and Observer. The aircraft climbed to 3,500 feet, the weather was good, the night dark and moonless with broken cloud. The exercise was carried out satisfactorily and at 2050 hours, when a message was received from the aircraft stating the occupants were about to change over.

At about this time the weather deteriorated over portion of the training area with some cloud at the lower level. This cleared within 15 minutes and good conditions prevailed. Shortly after the above signal, the aircraft was observed entering cloud, after which it was not seen again from the drome. At 2105 hours a report was received that the aircraft had crashed some miles north of Bundaberg. The aircraft had crashed in a cane field on the property of Mr E Green “Meadowvald”, and both the trainee Pilots had been killed. Both were on no 27 (P) course and two weeks from completing their SFTS training.

Crew: RAAF 425600 LAC J S Cavill, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 418099 LAC J W Glew, (Trainee Pilot)

Both are buried in the Bundaberg General Cemetery, Queensland.

65 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

420143 Leading Aircraftsman CAWLEY, Patrick Joseph

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/95/295 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-379 Radio call sign: Unit: 10 EFTS Temora

Summary: On the 14th June 1942, Tiger Moth A17-379 crashed at 1100 hours at the Western Relief landing ground, Temora, and the trainee pilot was killed. A17-379 and A17-347 had collided in mid air at approx 40 feet when taking off and A17-379 dived into the ground and caught fire.

Crew: RAAF 420143 LAC P J Cawley, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Cawley is buried in the Lismore Cemetery, NSW.

66 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

422931 Leading Aircraftsman CHANTLER, John Christopher

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/7/161 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-584 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 8th August 1943, Tiger Moths A20-584 and A20-215 collided during formation flying instructional flight, and three were killed. The aircraft crashed two miles west of the Rock. A20-215 was seen to spin in and Sgt White an Instructor pilot parachuted to safety.

Crew: A20-584 RAAF 407450 WO F K Smith, (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 422931 LAC J C Chantler, (Trainee Dual Pilot Killed

Crew: A20-215 RAAF Sgt L E White, (Instructor Pilot) Safe RAAF 428633 LAC R T Cooper (Trainee Dual Pilot) Killed

The three killed are buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

67 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

436266 Leading Aircraftsman CHARTERS, Aubrey Bute

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/7/275 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-299 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 24th December 1943, Wirraway A20-299 crashed at 0225 hours after take off at night at Bradleys Field satellite drome, and the trainee pilot was killed. The aircraft was carrying out solo circuits and landings. The probable cause of the accident was that the tail passed over a stick, which threw up and damaged the tailplane of the aircraft.

Crew: RAAF 436266 LAC A B Charters, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Charters is buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

68 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

409511 Leading Aircraftsman CHECCHI, David Alwyen

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/96/130 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: R3561 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 13th May 1942, Anson R3561 crashed into a hill during a shower at Hoyleston, South Australia, and the trainee pilot was killed.

Crew: RAAF 409511 LAC D A Checchi, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Checchi is buried in the Willaura Cemetery, Victoria. Willaura is 150 miles WNW of Melbourne.

69 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

29693 Leading Aircraftsman CHESTER, Ivan Isadore

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/7/148 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: R3550 Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 21st July 1943, Anson R3550 crashed on a non-operational ferry flight on the southern boundary of the Georgina satellite drome. The aircraft struck a tree during take off and lost portion of the tail unit.

Crew: RAAF 407300 Flt Lt Nitschke, C F (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 29693 LAC I I Chester, (Trainee Pilot) Killed RAAF 427845 LAC L H Clarke, (Trainee Pilot) Killed RAAF 411751 FO Crawford, DM PAX Died of Injuries RAAF LAC J P Bird, (Trainee pilot) Slightly injured

The four that lost their lives are buried in the Geraldton War Cemetery, Western Australia.

70 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

416556 Sergeant CLARK, Tom Barnett

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/97/143 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W1608 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 5th June 1942, Anson W1608 during an operational patrol became lost due to bad weather and darkness, and due to lack of fuel it forced landed and crashed at 2020 hours, two miles north of Biggenden, Queensland. The crew of three were killed.

Crew: RAAF 407967 Sgt L W Hodges, (Pilot) RAAF 408813 Sgt S L Kilpatrick, (Observer) RAAF 416556 Sgt T B Clark, (Wireless Air Gunner)

Sgt’s Hodges and Clark are buried in the Bundaberg General Cemetery, Queensland. Sgt Kilpatrick is buried in the Shepparton Public Cemetery, Victoria.

71 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

422136 Pilot Officer CLARKE, Arthur Albert

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/7/74 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: Central Flying School Tamworth

Summary: On the 23rd April 1943, PO Clarke, a Pilot, was acting as Aerodrome Control Pilot for night flying at CFS Tamworth. He was struck by the undercarriage of A6-8 as it was landing from a non operational instructional flight. PO Clarke was admitted to No 102 AGH dangerously ill, with a compound fracture of the right femur. He died later that evening, and is buried in the Tamworth War Cemetery, NSW.

72 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

427845 Leading Aircraftsman CLARKE, Lawrence Henry

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/7/148 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: R3550 Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 21st July 1943, Anson R3550 crashed on a non-operational ferry flight on the southern boundary of the Georgina satellite drome. The aircraft struck a tree during take off and lost portion of the tail unit.

Crew: RAAF 407300 Flt Lt Nitschke, C F (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 29693 LAC I I Chester, (Trainee Pilot) Killed RAAF 427845 LAC L H Clarke, (Trainee Pilot) Killed RAAF 411751 FO Crawford, DM PAX Died of Injuries RAAF LAC J P Bird, (Trainee pilot) Slightly injured

The four that lost their lives are buried in the Geraldton War Cemetery, Western Australia.

73 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

444226 Sergeant CLOUGH, Roger Byron

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/7/1227 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: LW879 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 28th November 1945, Oxford LW879 crashed at 0943 hours, 300 yards north west of Port Parham, Lat 34.25S Long 138.15E, and the pilot was killed. The pilot was on a solo general flying practice, during which in breach of orders, he proceeded to shoot up the rest camp at Port Parham. The aircraft pulled out of a dive, took a steep turn to the right and slipped into the ground.

Crew: RAAF 444226 Sgt R B Clough, (Pilot)

Sgt Clough is buried in the Mallala War Cemetery, South Aust.

74 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

427848 Flying Officer COLLINS, William Edwards

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/1359 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: EC446 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 1st November 1945, Anson EC446 crashed during a non-operational instrument training flight; two miles north of the Moruya landing ground, and all on board were killed. Eye witnesses reported that one wing fell off the aircraft shortly after take off from Moruya.

Crew: RAAF 427848 FO Collins, W E (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413850 FO Fraser, A J (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 440045 Flt Sgt J Miller, (Instructor Pilot0 RAAF 71518 LAC A M Scott, (Fitter 11E) RAAF 134514 LAC D F Snow, (Fitter 11A) RAAF 49966 LAC Shade, T C (Flight Mechanic)

All on board are buried in the Moruya Cemetery, NSW.

75 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

68400 Aircraftsman Class 1 CONDON, Herbert James

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/98/697 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 2 Wing Air Training Corps

Summary: On the 29th September 1942, AC1 Condon, a Clerk General, was admitted to No 113 Aust General Hospital, seriously ill with a cerebral tumour. On the15th April 1943 he was removed from the seriously ill list. On the 17th November 1943 he died of his illness and is buried in the Glen Innes General Cemetery, NSW.

76 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

407571 Flying Officer CONNELLAN, Vincent Thomas

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/55 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: DH 82 Serial number: A17-174 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 EFTS Narrandera

Summary: On the 9th March 1943, DH 82’s A17-174 and A17-257 collided in full flight at 600 feet, during a forced landing practice, and all on board were killed. Eye witnesses stated: “One of the planes was on the last crosswind leg of a forced; landing approach, when it collided into the side of the second aircraft, which was on it’s into wind leg preparatory to landing.” It was considered that the airscrew of the first plane struck the oil tank of the second plane on the left hand side, and both aircraft crashed in a spin.

Crew: A17-174 RAAF 407571 FO Connellan, V T (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 422979 LAC P McL Phillips, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

Crew: A17-257 RAAF 401616 FO Croft, C E (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 423539 LAC G M Harding, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

All the four are buried in the Narrandera War Cemetery, NSW

77 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

22993 Leading Aircraftsman CONNOLLY, Francis

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301 Barcode 4585243 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 28th Nay 1943, LAC Connolly, a Fitter 11A, was discharged from the RAAF medically unfit for further service. He died on the 11th September 1946 and was cremated in the Sydney (Eastern Suburbs) Crematorium, NSW. His name is recorded on the NSW Cremation Memorial, Sydney.

78 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

427803 Leading Aircraftsman COOK, Colin Walter

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/172 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2256 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 21st July 1943, Anson W2256 took off at 2143 hours, from Mallala drome on a trainee solo night cross country exercise. At approx 2245 hours a dense fog, not predicted in the met forecast, rolled in very quickly over the drome to a height of about 300 feet, while there were still six aircraft out on the cross country exercise.

The Pilots all had difficulty finding the drome which could only be vaguely discovered by the glow of the emery lights below the fog, the flare path being invisible from 150 feet. Two aircraft including W2256 were missing all night. The Pilot of one of these aircraft was able to phone the unit the next day saying he had landed safely south east of the drome.

As soon as the fog lifted, searches for W2256 were carried out on the 22nd July, and it was located close to the drome and a total wreck. The Pilot, LAC Cook, was found suffering from a fractured left thigh, contusions to the face and head and shock, and he had been forced to spend the night jammed in a badly smashed cockpit. He was admitted to SSQ at 1100 hours on the 22nd July, but he developed a haemorrhage of the brain and died at 1335 hours that day.

Crew: RAAF 427803 LAC C W Cook, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Cook is buried in the Mallala War Cemetery, South Australia.

79 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

442489 Pilot Officer COOK, Robert James

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/1053 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-245 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 15th June 1945, Wirraway A20-245 during a non-operational general flying instruction flight, disintegrated in the air as a result of a suspected structural failure. The two on board were killed.

Crew: RAAF 419833 FO Reed, J V (Instructional Pilot) RAAF 442489 PO R J Cook, (Refresher Course Pilot)

Both crew members are buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

80 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

413187 Sergeant COOPER, Gordon

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/95/331 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: R3542 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 4th August 1942, Anson R3542 and Anson W2165 collided at 0950 hours, over Monteith, South Australia, when in full flight during formation flying.R3542 crashed into the Murray river in water 90 feet deep, and W2165 crashed on the river bank. All on board both aircraft lost their lives in the accident.

Crew: R3542 RAAF 2366 FO Wotzko, L V (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413187 Sgt G Cooper, (Observer) RAAF 416929 LAC L Cadd, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 416956 LAC N D Haines, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: W2165 RAAF 406625 Sgt H G Phillips, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413018 Sgt M J Nichols, (Observer) RAAF 409484 LAC C McC Say, (Pupil Pilot) RAAF 420056 LAC J B Richardson, (Pupil Pilot)

Crew: R3542 FO Wotzko and LAC Haines have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is located in the Sydney War Cemetery which is about 17kms west of Sydney. Sgt Cooper and LAC Cadd are buried in the Murray Bridge Cemetery, South Australia.

Crew: W2165 Sgt Phillips was cremated at the South Aust Government Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the South Aust Cremation Memorial. Sgt Nichols is buried in the South Maitland (Kurri Kurri) Cemetery, NSW. LAC Richardson and LAC Say are buried in the Mallala War Cemetery, South Australia.

81 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

434532 Leading Aircraftsman COOPER, John Findlay

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/231 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-358 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 22nd September 1943, Wirraway A20-358 crashed at 0030 hours, during a solo night flying cross country exercise, 25 miles north east of the Deniliquin drome, and the Pilot was killed.

Crew: RAAF 434531 LAC J F Cooper, (Pupil Pilot)

LAC Cooper is buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

82 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

428633 Leading Aircraftsman COOPER, Raymond Thomas

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/7/161 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-584 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 8th August 1943, Tiger Moths A20-584 and A20-215 collided during formation flying instructional flight, and three were killed. The aircraft crashed two miles west of the Rock. A20-215 was seen to spin in and Sgt White an Instructor pilot parachuted to safety.

Crew: A20-584 RAAF 407450 WO F K Smith, (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 422931 LAC J C Chantler, (Trainee Dual Pilot Killed

Crew: A20-215 RAAF Sgt L E White, (Instructor Pilot) Safe RAAF 428633 LAC R T Cooper (Trainee Dual Pilot) Killed

The three killed are buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

83 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

416325 Leading Aircraftsman COWELL, Douglas Bruce

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/98/405 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-394 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 24th December 1941, Wirraway A20-394 crashed at 1130 hours six miles south of Geelong, Victoria, and the both the crew were killed. The aircraft was engaged in general flying practice, when it became out of control, dived into the ground and caught fire.

Crew: RAAF 416325 LAC D B Cowell, (Pupil Pilot) RAAF 416370 LAC D A Shearer, (Pupil Pilot)

LAC Cowell is buried in the Footscray Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Shearer is buried in the Adelaide (Centennial Park) Cemetery, South Australia. .

84 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

Flying Officer COX, Charles

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/6/54 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 EFTS Parafield

Summary: On the 19th March 1940, Air Cadet Bowron and FO Cox of 1 EFTS Parafield were both killed in a cross country training flight, when the aircraft crashed three miles from Salisbury, South Australia.

Crew: RAAF FO Cox C, (Pilot) RAAF Air Cadet R O Bowron, (Trainee Pilot)

Both the crew were cremated at the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, and their names are recorded on the Victorian Cremation Memorial.

85 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

419848 Flying Officer CRANE, Noel Irvine

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/167 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AS900 Radio call sign: Unit: ! SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 19th July 1943, Oxfords AS900 and EB897 collided in the air during a formation training exercise, and crashed at 0850 hours near the Durdidwarrah Dam, seven miles east of Meredith, Victoria, and all were killed.

Crew: AS900 RAAF 419848 FO Crane, N I (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 34331 LAC D G Haig, (2nd Pilot)

Crew: EB897 RAAF 418266 LAC A I Gumley, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 428043 LAC A K Goyne, (2nd Pilot)

All four are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

86 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

408277 Leading Aircraftsman CRANSTON, Robert John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/98/499 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AT644 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 8th may 1942, Oxford AT644 crashed at 1350 hours ten miles north east of Werribee, Victoria, and the crew of three were killed. The aircraft was on a low level bombing practice exercise, and collided with a tree diving into the ground.

Crew: RAAF 407904 LAC J A McKenzie, (Staff Pilot) RAAF 408277 LAC R J Cranston, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 408281 LAC E K Gilbert, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC McKenzie is buried in the Port Adelaide and Suburban Cemetery, South Australia. LAC’s Cranston and Gilbert are buried in the Hobart (Cornelian Bay) Public Cemetery, Tasmania.

87 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

411751 Flying Officer CRAWFORD, David Maxwell

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/7/148 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: R3550 Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 21st July 1943, Anson R3550 crashed on a non-operational ferry flight on the southern boundary of the Georgina satellite drome. The aircraft struck a tree during take off and lost portion of the tail unit.

Crew: RAAF 407300 Flt Lt Nitschke, C F (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 29693 LAC I I Chester, (Trainee Pilot) Killed RAAF 427845 LAC L H Clarke, (Trainee Pilot) Killed RAAF 411751 FO Crawford, D M PAX Died of Injuries RAAF LAC J P Bird, (Trainee pilot) Slightly injured

The four that lost their lives are buried in the Geraldton War Cemetery, Western Australia.

88 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

35987 Leading Aircraftsman CREAMER, Aubrey Herbert

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/98/396 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 14th December 1941, LAC Creamer, a Dental Mechanic, drowned at 1300 hours when swimming in the Murrumbidgee River NSW. He is buried in the Newcastle (Sandgate) General Cemetery, NSW.

89 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

431041 Leading Aircraftsman CROCKFORD, Alfred Derrick

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/276 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-443 Radio call sign: Unit: 10 EFTS Temora

Summary: On the 29th October 1943, Tiger Moth A17-443 crashed during a training flight at 1200 hours, 8 miles WNW of the main drome at Temora, NSW, and both the crew were killed A17-443 collided in full flight with A17-179.

Crew: A17-443 RAAF 414138 PO Howard, V A (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 431041 LAC A D Crockford, (Trainee Pilot) Killed

Crew: A17-179 RAAF 430744 LAC P R Armstrong, (Trainee Pilot) Safe

Both PO Howard and LAC Crockford are buried in the Temora General Cemetery, NSW.

90 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

401616 Flying Officer CROFT, Charles Edward

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/55 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: DH 82 Serial number: A17-174 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 EFTS Narrandera

Summary: On the 9th March 1943, DH 82’s A17-174 and A17-257 collided in full flight at 600 feet, during a forced landing practice, and all on board were killed. Eye witnesses stated : “One of the planes was on the last crosswind leg of a forced ;landing approach, when it collided into the side of the second aircraft, which was on its into wind leg preparatory to landing.” It was considered that the airscrew of the first plane struck the oil tank of the second plane on the left hand side, and both aircraft crashed in a spin.

Crew: A17-174 RAAF 407571 FO Connellan, V T (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 422979 LAC P McL Phillips, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

Crew: A17-257 RAAF 401616 FO Croft, C E (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 423539 LAC G M Harding, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

All the four are buried in the Narrandera War Cemetery, NSW

91 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

415122 Flight Sergeant CROSS, Stanley William

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/277 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2072 Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 1st November 1943, Anson W2072 crashed at 11so hours 3 miles north of Greenough Township, Western Australia, and the crew were killed. The aircraft was on a non-operational dual instructional flight, and the crash was apparently caused by the pilot losing control of the aircraft when in a clod, and the starboard main plane disintegrated in a steep; dive.

Crew: RAAF 417287 Sgt R J Wilson, (Staff Pilot) RAAF 415122 Flt Sgt S W Cross, (Wireless Air Gunner) RAAF 437091 LAC W R Morley, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 436204 LAC E J Milstead, (Trainee Pilot)

All the crew are buried in the Geraldton War Cemetery, Western Australia.

92 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

405723 Sergeant CULLEN, David Neil

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/94/266 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-333 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 26th August 1942, Wirraways A20-333 and A20-342 collided in mid air at 1345 hours. Both aircraft crashed five miles North West of Wanganella, NSW and both crews were killed.

Crew: A20-333 RAAF 411681 Sgt G B Willcocks, (Pilot) RAAF 411993 Sgt B C Burke, (Wireless Air Gunner)

Crew: A20-342 RAAF 405723 Sgt D N Cullen, (Pilot) RAAF 413812 Sgt A D Woods, (Wireless Air Gunner)

Sgt Cullen and Sgt Woods are buried in the Deniliquin General Cemetery, NSW. Sgt Willcocks is buried in the Glen Innes General Cemetery, NSW. Sgt Burke is buried in the Northern Suburbs General Cemetery, NSW.

93 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

411753 Sergeant CUNNINGHAM, Francis Lindsay

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/87/219 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-379 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 23rd January 1942, Wirraway A20-379 crashed at 1525 hours half a mile from the Deniliquin drome, and the two on board were killed. The aircraft was attempting a forced landing, when it spun in off a steep turn and dived into the ground, catching fire on impact.

Crew: RAAF 411753 Sgt F L Cunningham, (Safety Pilot) RAAF 408960 LAC L M Anderson, (2nd Pilot)

Sgt Cunningham is buried in the Northern Suburbs General Cemetery, Sydney, NSW. LAC Anderson is buried in the Deniliquin General Cemetery, NSW.

94 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

264150 Flight Lieutenant CURTIS, Raymond Henry

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/979 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 10 EFTS Temora

Summary: On the 25th December 1944, Flt Lt Curtis, (A & SD) was admitted to the No 2 RAAF Hospital, suffering from acute gingivitis. On the 5th January 1945, he was taken to the operating theatre for dental examination under anaesthetic. During the operation indications of respiratory insufficiency became apparent, and he was transferred to the Royal Melbourne hospital for treatment on a mechanical respiratory, but he died at 1630 hours that day. Flt Lt Curtis is buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

95 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

415466 Leading Aircraftsman DAVIDSON, Kevin

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/100/219 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-370 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 24th June 1942, Wirraway A20-370 crashed at 1345 hours, at Stud Park, 16 miles north of Deniliquin, NSW, and both the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 406010 Flt Sgt E L Haffner, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 415466 LAC K Davidson, (Trainee Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Deniliquin General Cemetery, NSW.

96 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

400394 Flight Sergeant DAVIES, Ronald Campbell

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/100/206 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: AW902 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 1st June 1942, Anson AW902 crashed at sea at 1142 hours, at Bargara, Queensland, near Bundaberg, and all the crew were killed. The wreck of the aircraft was located about 1.5 miles off shore in 32 feet of water. Pieces of wreckage were found, but no trace of the missing crew was found.

Crew: RAAF 400394 Flt Sgt R C Davies, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 415485 LAC W J Regan, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 420765 LAC C J Lucas, (Trainee Pilot)

The three missing crew have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is located in the Sydney War Cemetery, which is situated about 17kms west of Sydney.

97 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

415 Flight Lieutenant DAWSON, Cedar Alfred

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/27/145 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-21 Radio call sign: Unit: Central Flying School Tamworth

Summary: On the 8th August 1942, Flt Lt Dawson expressed the intention of testing certain altitudes to which the Wirraway aircraft could climb, and as he had only recently been posted to the Wirraway Flight, he was taking every opportunity to become proficient with this type and check data.

At 1350 hours the aircraft took off, and the take off appeared normal. Observers stated that the control column was in position for dual in the rear seat. The aircraft was seen by the Flt Commander of the Wirraway flight at about 1425 hours at a height of 3000 feet to be in a steep spiral dive at very high speed and to crash behind a hill. Both the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 415 Flt Lt Dawson, C A (Pilot) RAAF 37142 LAC G Patterson, (Trainee Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Tamworth General Cemetery, NSW

98 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

424859 Sergeant DAWSON, Kenneth George

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/7/158 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: BF983 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 4th August 1943, Oxford BF983 and Boomerang A46-103 collided in the air, the three in the Oxford were killed in the accident, and Sqn Ldr Harper, the pilot of the Boomerang was uninjured. Sgt Caiger a Pilot in the Oxford was under dual instruction for a beam approach exercise. The Oxford, (BF983) was flying on a southerly course 1.5 miles west of Laverton drome. Sqn Ldr Cuming was flying a Wirraway A20-526 and was overtaking the Oxford during the course of photographing the Boomerang, but was well clear on the starboard side of the Oxford. Apparently the Wirraway was obscuring Sqn Ldr Harper’s view of the Oxford, and just as the Wirraway drew level with the Oxford, Sqn Ldr Harper changed position from the starboard side to the port side of the Wirraway in order to place himself in the correct position re the camera and the sun.

His attention was momentarily focussed on the Wirraway, and he did not see the Oxford until his port wing tip was virtually hitting the tail of the Oxford. The wing cut through the rear fuselage of the Oxford causing it to spin to the ground. The Boomerang was badly damaged but Sqn Ldr Harper landed the aircraft back at the Laverton drome.

Crew: RAAF 411141 Flt Sgt T H Hart, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 424963 Sgt V K Caiger, (Pilot under dual instruction) RAAF 424859 Sgt K G Dawson, (

All the crew are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne. Victoria.

99 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

405724 Sergeant DAWSON, Thomas Myles

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/9/9 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-45 Radio call sign: Unit: CFS Tamworth

Summary: On the 18th January 1943, Wirraway A20-45 was detailed to carry out low flying practice in the authorised low flying area. The aircraft crashed at 1050 hours, at Curralubula, which is 16 miles south west of Tamworth, NSW, an the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 261535 Flt Lt MacArthur-Onslow, A W (Pilot) RAAF 405724 Sgt T M Dawson, (Pilot)

Both are buried in the Tamworth War Cemetery, NSW.

100 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

435509 Leading Aircraftsman DAY, Kenneth Henry

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/9/208 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 30th November 1943, LAC Day, an Aircrew trainee Pilot, died of his injuries when a heavy tender overturned two miles south west of the main gate to the Bundaberg drome. Others on the tender were injured. LAC Day is buried in the Bundaberg General Cemetery, Queensland.

101 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

408057 Leading Aircraftsman DEAN, Geoffrey Reginald

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/101/57 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 11th January 1941, LAC’s Dean, Parry and Wright, all Pilot trainees, left Point Cook in a sailing dinghy, and failed to return. The Altona police later reported that a sailing dinghy badly damaged had been found washed up on the Altona Beach, Victoria, on Port Phillip Bay. This was the missing dinghy, and it was presumed that the three had drowned.

LAC Dean was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Parry is buried in the Footscray Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Wright has no known grave. His name is commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which stands in the Sydney War Cemetery, which is situated 17kms west of Sydney, NSW.

102 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

408038 Sergeant DEAN, Geoffrey Reginald

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/101/97 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: T5486 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 EFTS Western Junction

Summary: On the 4th February 1942, Tiger Moths T5486 and T5463 collided in full flight and crashed at approx 1000 hours, one mile west of Cressy, Tasmania. Three were killed.. The crew in T5486 were carrying out Instructors practice flying. LAC Hurley in T5463 was receiving dual instruction.

Crew: T5486 RAAF 408038 Sgt G R Dean, (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 408097 Sgt J H Rust, (Instructor Pilot) Baled out slightly injured

Crew: T5463 RAAF 2350 FO Scascighini, J (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 412965 LAC F L Hurley, (Trainee Pilot) Killed

Sgt Dean was cremated in the Carr Villa Crematorium, Launceston, Tasmania. FO Scascighini is buried in the Burwood Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Hurley is buried in the Carr Villa Cemetery, Launceston Tasmania. The Cemetery is about four miles from the Launceston GPO.

103 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

411295 Sergeant DEBENHAM, Geoffrey Lancaster

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/124/199 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2262 Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 9th October 1942, Anson W2262 was authorised to carry out a D/F exercise and ZZ approaches at Pearce, Western Australia. At approx 1242 hours the aircraft crashed near Clackline, WA, and all on board were killed. PO Sedunary, a crew member, was not in the aircraft at the time of the crash. The aircraft took off from Pearce and flew a course of 111 degrees true for approx 20 minutes on receipt of that baring from the No 1 D/F station at Pearce. After receiving permission to make a ZZ approach, the aircraft commenced a left hand turn. While in this turn, the aircraft went into a steep dive with its engines racing. As the dive continued the aircraft banked steeply to port, momentarily flattened out, and eventually side slipped into the ground.

Crew: RAAF 415294 G L Debenham, (Pilot) (No 4 SFTS Geraldton) RAAF 401823 L V H Birt, (Observer) ( “ “ ) RAAF 414073 N L Nixon, (Observer) ( “ “ ) RAAF 415255 Sgt K C Hugo, (Wireless Air Gunner) (of 68 Sqn)

All the crew are buried in the Perth War Cemetery and Annex, Western Australia.

104 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

11266 Sergeant DODSON, Cyril Ingram

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/10/63 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 11 EFTS Benalla

Summary: On the 14th May 1943, Sgt Dodson, a Nursing Orderly, was seriously ill at Wangaratta Base Hospital, Victoria, following an appendectomy, and it was necessary to perform a second operation on the 14th May, from which he did not recover. He is buried in the Benalla War Cemetery, Victoria.

105 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

710 Pilot Officer DODGSHUN,Ronad Charles

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/118/125, Series A9845 Wirraway crashes Part 1. Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-4 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 16th February 1941, Wirraway A20-4 crashed at Wagga Wagga drome, and the crew of two were killed.

Crew: RAAF 710 PO Dodgshun, R C (Pilot) RAAF 402657 LAC I S Gordon, (Trainee Pilot)

PO Dodgshun is buried in the Box Hill General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Gordon is buried in the Manly Cemetery, Sydney, NSW.

106 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

418740 Leading Aircraftsman DOW, Eric Francis

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/10/31 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-311 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 1st April 1943, Wirraway A20-311 crashed at 0959 hours during a solo navigation exercise, at Pine Lodge, 8 miles east of Shepparton, Victoria. The trainee pilot was killed in the accident. It appeared that the pilot stunted over the home of his fiancée and did a stall turn without allowing sufficient height for the recovery of the aircraft, before it hit the ground.

Crew: RAAF 418740 LAC E F Dow, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Dow is buried in the Shepparton Civil Cemetery, Victoria.

107 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

428625 Leading Aircraftsman DOWER, John Robert

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/10/80 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-96 Radio call sign: Unit: 11 EFTS Benalla

Summary: On the 15th June 1943, Tiger Moth A17-96 collided on take off with A17-537 approx 60 feet in the air, and LAC Dower was killed. A17-96 stalled, nose dived, crashed and burnt on impact.

Crew: A17--96 RAAF 428625 LAC J R Dower, (Trainee Pilot) Killed

Crew: A17-537 RAAF 429795 LAC A Gardiner, (Trainee Pilot) Seriously injured

LAC Dower is buried in the Benalla War Cemetery, Victoria.

108 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

68326 Leading Aircraftsman DRURY, Rupert Joseph Norman

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/10/88 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 15th April 1943, LAC Drury, a DMT, was under treatment at No 6 RAAF Hospital for a secondary spread of excised Melanoma. On the 3rd July 1943, he was transferred to No 3 RAAF Hospital and assessed seriously ill. On the 27th July he was assessed as dangerously ill and he died on the 3rd August 1943. He is buried in the Sydney War Cemetery, NSW. The Cemetery is about 17kms west of Sydney.

109 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

404329 Leading Aircraftsman EAGAR, Kingsley John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 53/1/783 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Narromine

Summary: On the 11th November 1940, LAC Eager, a Trainee Pilot, was killed in a ground accident at Narromine, NSW. He is buried in the Sydney (Waverley) General Cemetery, NSW.

110 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

9070 Aircraftsman Class 1 EDWARDS, Frederick Lister

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/105/51 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 EFTS Parafield

Summary: On the 18th April 1940, AC1 Edwards was killed in an accident on his way home from the Parafield aerodrome. He is buried in the Adelaide (West Terrace) Cemetery, South Australia.

111 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

407002 Sergeant EDWARDS, James

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/105/50 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: N9902 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 SFTS Amberley

Summary: On the 17th June 1941. Anson N9902 crashed at 1345 hours, near Dinmore, approx five miles east of Ipswich, and the crew were killed. The aircraft was engaged in an instrument flying exercise at 4,000 feet when the accident occurred.

Crew: RAAF 407002 Sgt J Edwards, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 404832 LAC H E Pym, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 404894 LAC B W Reynolds, (Trainee Pilot)

Sgt Edwards is buried in the Adelaide (Centennial Park) Cemetery, South Australia. LAC Pym is buried in the Brisbane General Cemetery, Queensland. LAC Reynolds is buried in the Clermont Cemetery, Queensland.

112 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

415243 Flying Officer ENGLISH, Francis Gregory

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/14/111 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-203 Radio call sign: Unit: 9 EFTS Cunderdin

Summary: On the 20th October 1943, Tiger Moths A17-203 and A17-150 collided in flight, and crashed at 1405 hours, one mile east of the main drome. Both crews were killed.

Crew: A17-203 RAAF 38597 LAC D J Fraser, (Trainee Solo Pilot)

Crew: A17-150 RAAF 415243 FO English, F G (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 29431 LAC D J McCaskill, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

All three are buried in the Perth War Cemetery and Annex, Western Australia.

113 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

75764 Corporal ERBACHER, Norman Louis

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/12/66 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 10th March 1944, Cpl Erbacher, a W/T Operator, died at 0030 hours at night in an accident when off duty. It as considered that he probably fell from a window at the Commercial hotel, Bundaberg, Queensland. He is buried in the Brisbane (Lutwyche) Cemetery, Queensland.

114 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

409791 Flight Lieutenant EVERETT, Norman Brewster

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/12/216 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-554 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 10th September 1945, Wirraway A20-554 on an instrument training flight, crashed during take off at the Uranquinty drome, as a result of engine failure, and the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 409791 Flt Lt Everett, N B (Instructor pilot) RAAF 438265 Sgt M Peck, (Pupil Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

115 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

2778 Warrant Officer FARLEY, JohnWilliam

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/110/73 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 7 EFTS Western Junction

Summary: On the 20th August 1942, WO Farley, an Engineer, attended sick parade. On the 23rd August he was admitted to SSQ Western Junction, suffering from Tuberculosis Meningitis. On the 27th August he was transferred by aircraft to Alfred Hospital, Melbourne and he died at that hospital on 6th September 1942. He is buried in the Springvale Necropolis, Melbourne, Victoria.

116 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

425292 Flying Officer FAWCETT, James Edgar Gerrard

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/13/1356 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-433 Radio call sign: Unit: 10 EFTS Temora

Summary: On the 27th September 1943, Tiger Moth A17-433 during an instructional flight, crashed at 1530 hours, seven miles north east of the Temora drome, and the pilot was killed. It as considered that a probable cause of the crash was that the aircraft was caught in very severe turbulence and a down draft on the windward side of a hill.

Crew: RAAF 425292 FO Fawcett, J E G (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 433667 LAC S C Sheesby (Trainee Pilot) Slightly Injured

FO Fawcett is buried in the Temora General Cemetery, NSW.

117 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

403134 Flying Officers FENLY, Leonard Charles

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/22/136 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-19 Radio call sign: Unit: Central Flying School Tamworth

Summary: On the 23rd May 1942, Wirraway A20-19 crashed at 1410 hours near Warral, NSW and both the crew were killed. The aircraft was seen to do a steeply banked turn at low altitude, when it flicked and crashed into the ground.

Crew: RAAF 407398 FO Ambrose, D S (Pilot) RAAF 403134 FO Fenly, L C (Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Tamworth General Cemetery, NSW

118 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

64932 Aircraftsman Class 1 FENNELL, Arthur James

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/13/79 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 3rd July 1943, AC1 Fennell, a General Hand, was killed by a civilian truck while walking along the road back to camp. He had a days stand down and went to The Rock. He returned to Uranquinty by train about 6pm, and had commenced to walk back to camp. He is buried in the Wagga Wagga General Cemetery, NSW.

119 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

254900 Flying Officer FITTON, Stewart

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/13/63 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-560 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 EFTS Western Junction

Summary: On the 11th June 1943, Tiger Moth A17-560 during a dual instruction flight, crashed at 1400 hours five miles south of the Western Junction drome, and the crew were killed. The main plane appeared to come off in mid air and the aircraft spun in and hit the ground.

Crew: RAAF 254900 FO Fitton, S (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 419788 LAC A B Lake, (Trainee Pilot)

The crew are buried in the Carr Villa General Cemetery, Launceston, Tasmania.

120 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

Flight Lieutenant FITZGERALD, Henry Parkes

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9300, Barcode 5381832 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 18th December 1939, Flt Lt Fitzgerald, was killed in a flying accident. He was cremated in the Hobart (Cornelian Bay) Crematorium, Tasmania.

121 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

432634 Sergeant FLEMING, Edwin William

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/13/207 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-583 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 24th March 1944, Wirraway A20-583 was carrying out Instrument flying practice, when the engine seized at 4,000 feet. In an attempted forced landing, the aircraft overshot the field, struck a telephone post and overturned, three miles east of Mangoplay, NSW, near the main Holbrook road. The Pilot was killed in the accident.

Crew: RAAF 432634 Sgt E W Fleming, (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 433616 LAC J M Nesbitt, (Trainee pilot) Not injured

Sgt Fleming is buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

122 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

408646 Leading Aircraftsman FLOYD, Charles Wilmott

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/112/90 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AR916 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 14th December 1941, Oxford AR916 took off at 2315 hours to carry out solo circuits and landings exercise. The take off was normal along the flare path, and the aircraft climbed to 200 feet. It then commenced a turn to the right and reached about 500 feet. The nose of the aircraft then dropped slightly, and it was then in the attitude of a diving turn to the right. It continued this attitude until approx 200 feet above the sea, and then commenced to climb gently reaching a height of 300 feet. It then made a diving turn to port and continued in that position until it struck the ground and the pilot was killed. The aircraft crashed three quarters of a mile from Station Headquarters

Crew: RAAF 408646 LAC C W Floyd, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Floyd is buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

123 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

422847 Leading Aircraftsman FLYNN, Brian Henry

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/13/19 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-451 Radio call sign: Unit: 10 EFTS Temora

Summary: On the 2nd March 1943, Tiger Moth A17-451 crashed at 0925 hours, one mile north of B Flight Satellite drome at 10 EFTS Temora, and the pilot was killed. The aircraft was detailed to carry out solo circuits and landings. The aircraft spun in off a gliding turn, when approaching to land.

Crew: RAAF 422847 LAC B H Flynn, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Flynn is buried in the Temora General Cemetery, NSW.

124 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

207682 Sergeant FOLEY, Bernard Edward

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/82/123 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 10 EFTS Temora

Summary: On the 14th August 1941, Sgt Foley of 10 EFTS Temora was killed in a car accident at 0415 hours, on the Barmedan side of West Wyalong on the Barmedan/Wagga Wagga road. Others were injured in the crash. Commonwealth War Graves does not record where Sgt Foley is buried.

125 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

430205 Leading Aircraftsman FOLEY, Martin John Frusher

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/14/114 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-307 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 1st November 1943, Wirraway A20-307 departed solo on an R/T exercise, and collided with Wirraway A20-363 at 1050 hours, and crashed 2.5 miles south east of the main runway at Deniliquin. LAC Foley was killed in the collision.

Crew: A20-307 RAAF 430205 LAC M J F Foley, (Trainee Pilot) Killed

Crew: A20-363 RAAF 430216 LAC E D Milliken, (Trainee Pilot) Slightly Injured

LAC Foley is buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

126 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

2877 Flying Officer FORSTER, Milton Melrose

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/32/72 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wackett Serial number: A3-24 Radio call sign: Unit: 11 EFTS Benalla

Summary: On the 15th May 1942, Wackett A3-24 collided on take off with a stationery aircraft Wackett A3-13, at 1140 hours, at Winton satellite landing ground, and FO Forster was killed.

Crew: A3-24 RAAF 2877 FO Forster, M M (Instructor Pilot) Died from Injuries RAAF 409821 LAC G A Dan, (Trainee Pilot) Injured

Crew: A3-13 RAAF 409440 LAC L J Phillips, (Trainee Pilot) Not Injured.

FO Foster is buried in the Melbourne General Cemetery, Carlton, Victoria.

127 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

417827 Leading Aircraftsman FOWLES, Graham Moseley

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 161/14/50 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-293 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 27th May 1943, Wirraway A20-293 crashed at 0800 hours, in an open paddock, ten miles off track, and the pilot was killed. The aircraft had been on a solo cross country exercise.

Crew: RAAF 417827 LAC G M Fowles, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Fowles is buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

128 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

413850 Flying Officer FRASER, Alan James

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/1359 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: EC446 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 1st November 1945, Anson EC446 crashed during a non-operational instrument training flight; two miles north of the Moruya landing ground, and all on board were killed. Eye witnesses reported that one wing fell off the aircraft shortly after take off from Moruya.

Crew: RAAF 427848 FO Collins, W E (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413850 FO Fraser, A J (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 440045 Flt Sgt J Miller, (Instructor Pilot0 RAAF 71518 LAC A M Scott, (Fitter 11E) RAAF 134514 LAC D F Snow, (Fitter 11A) RAAF 49966 LAC Shade, T C (Flight Mechanic)

All on board are buried in the Moruya Cemetery, NSW.

129 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

38597 Leading Aircraftsman FRASER, Donald Joseph

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/14/111 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-203 Radio call sign: Unit: 9 EFTS Cunderdin

Summary: On the 20th October 1943, Tiger Moths A17-203 and A17-150 collided in flight, and crashed at 1405 hours, one mile east of the main drome. Both crews were killed.

Crew: A17-203 RAAF 38597 LAC D J Fraser, (Trainee Solo Pilot)

Crew: A17-150 RAAF 415243 FO English, F G (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 29431 LAC D J McCaskill, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

All three are buried in the Perth War Cemetery and Annex, Western Australia.

130 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

32035 Aircraftsman Class 1 FRAZER, George McKinley

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/113/101 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-77 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 3rd August 1941, Wirraway A20-77 was carrying out an aeroplane test, when it crashed at 1430 hours, at Mangoplah, NSW, and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft went into spin deliberately at 4,000 feet, and did not come out of the spin.

Crew: RAAF 678 FO Prowd, S N (Pilot) RAAF 32035 AC1 G McK Frazer, (Fitter 11A)

FO Prowd is buried in the St Kilda General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. AC1 Frazer is buried in the Woronora General Cemetery, Sutherland, Sydney, NSW.

131 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

19923 Leading Aircraftsman FRIDAY, John Henry

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/14/96 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AS 615 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 13th September 1943, Oxfords AS615 and SN271 collided in full flight at 1155 hours, and crashed at Salt Lake, half a mile north east of the Point Cook drome. Both crews were killed in the accident.

Crew: AS615 RAAF 19923 LAC J H Friday, (Trainee Solo Pilot)

Crew: SN271 RAAF 430167 LAC N J Harper, (Trainee Solo Pilot) RAAF 432972 LAC V M Purkiss, (Trainee Solo Pilot) PAX

All three are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

132 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

409534 Flight Sergeant FULLER, Lloyd Deacon

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/14/113 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-607 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 30th October 1943, Wirraway A20-607 during non-operational instruction flight, crashed at 0841 hours at the Belfrayden Satellite drome near Uranquinty, NSW. Both the crew were killed. The aircraft was coming in to land and about 30 feet off the ground, when it flicked on its back and dived into the ground, bursting into flames on impact it was considered that the probable cause of the accident was a power stall.

Crew: RAAF 409534 Flt Sgt L D Fuller, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 432857 LAC A J Nilon, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Wagga Wagga War cemetery, NSW.

133 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

40749 Leading Aircraftsman GALE, Lionel Albert

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/115/90 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 11 EFTS Benalla

Summary: On the 26th April 1942, LAC Gale, a Messman, was injured in a car accident in the Benalla Township. He died of his injuries on the 28th April, 1942, and is buried in the Footscray Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. AC1 Green, an Aircraft hand, was killed in the same accident, and is buried in the Benalla Cemetery, Victoria.

134 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

409536 Leading Aircraftsman GANLEY, Daniel Joseph Francis

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/115/97 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: BF887 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On eh 11`th May 1942, Oxford BF887 crashed in the Bay at 1430 hours, two miles south west of Point Cook, and all on board were killed. The aircraft was out of control and dived into the sea.

Crew: RAAF 401381 PO Jolly, H K W (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 409536 LAC D J F Ganley, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 416394 LAC J E King, (Trainee Pilot)

FO Jolly was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC’s Ganley and King have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is located in the Sydney War Cemetery, 17kms west of Sydney, NSW.

135 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

78012 Leading Aircraftsman GARDEN, Harold Alexander

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/15/227 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2150 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 25th April 1944, LAC Garden, a Flight Mechanic, walked into an airscrew shortly after starting the engine, and was killed. He is buried in the Bundaberg General Cemetery, Queensland.

136 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

153045 Leading Aircraftsman GARDNER, Edward

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/15/610 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 28th December 1945, LAC Gardner, an Armourer, at 2200 hours died of injuries received in a motor cycle accident while on Xmas laeve. The motor cycle collided with a taxi in Rakes road, Enfield. South Australia. He is buried in the Adelaide (Centennial Park) Cemetery, South Australia.

137 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

414373 Leading Aircraftsman GERMAIN, Cecil

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/116/36 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-221 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 20th July 1942, Wirraway A20-221 crashed 15 miles east of Deniliquin, NSW, and the crew on board were killed in the accident.

Crew: RAAF 414447 LAC R J Hooper, (Safety Pilot) RAAF 414373 LAC C Germain, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Hooper is buried in the Tewantin Cemetery, Queensland. LAC Germain is buried in the Deniliquin General Cemetery, NSW.

138 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

11853 Pilot Officer GERRARD, John Ashton

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/15/270 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-576 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 22nd June 1944, Wirraway A20-576 crashed at 1550 hours, at Mundiwah station; four miles east of Deniliquin, NSW, and the crew were killed. The aircraft was on a test flight preparatory to night flying

Crew: RAAF 11853 PO Gerrad, J A (Pilot) RAAF 134833 LAC K G Williams, (Flight Mechanic)

Both are buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

139 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

408281 Leading Aircraftsman GILBERT, Eric Kenneth

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/98/499 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AT644 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 8th May 1942, Oxford AT644 crashed at 1350 hours ten miles north east of Werribee, Victoria, and the crew of three were killed. The aircraft was on a low level bombing practice exercise, and collided with a tree diving into the ground.

Crew: RAAF 407904 LAC J A McKenzie, (Staff Pilot) RAAF 408277 LAC R J Cranston, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 408281 LAC E K Gilbert, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC McKenzie is buried in the Port Adelaide and Suburban Cemetery, South Australia. LAC’s Cranston and Gilbert are buried in the Hobart (Cornelian Bay) Public Cemetery, Tasmania.

140 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

4785 Flight Sergeant GILES, William Arthur Mackie

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/117/223 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Pearce

Summary: On the 28th November 1945, Flt Sgt Giles, a Fitter Armourer, was admitted to No 110th AGH, seriously ill with a myocardial failure. He was removed from the seriously ill list on 16th December 1945. He died on the 4th February 1947 and was cremated in the Rookwood Crematorium, Sydney, NSW.

141 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

23027 Sergeant GILL, Harold Albert

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/117/219 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 24th November 1942, Sgt Gill, a Nursing Orderly, was injured in a road accident at Rockhampton, Queensland. He died of his injuries at approx 0330 hours at the First American Field Hospital. He is buried in the Rockhampton Cemetery, Queensland.

142 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

404052 Leading Aircraftsman GIRDLER, Eric Arthur

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 53/1/90 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W1535 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 SFTS Amberley

Summary: On the 4th March 1941, Ansons W1535 and W1533 collided at approx 2,500 feet, during a navigation cross country exercise, at 0940 hours, some 11 miles north west of Casino, NSW. LAC Girdler was killed in the accident.

W1533 damaged the tail of W1535 and W1535 went into an uncontrolled spin. Both aircraft were detailed to carry out individually the cross country exercise, but contrary to orders, the aircraft joined up and were flying in formation when the accident occurred. W1533 landed safely at the Casino drome.

Crew: W1535 RAAF LAC J J O,Brien, (Trainee Pilot) Baled out RAAF 404052 LAC E A Girdler, (Trainee Observer) Killed.

Crew: W1533 RAAF 404265 LAC P R Smith,(Trainee Pilot) Safe RAAF 404226 LAC R McD Beattie (Trainee Observer) Safe

LAC Girdler is buried in the Ipswich General Cemetery, Queensland.

143 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

418099 Leading Aircraftsman GLEW, John William

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/7/35 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: DJ228 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 25th February 1943, Anson DJ228 took off at 1945 hours on a night training exercise. The two trainee Pilots on board were instructed to change duties as Pilot and Observer. The aircraft climbed to 3,500 feet, the weather was good, the night dark and moonless with broken cloud. The exercise was carried out satisfactorily and at 2050 hours, when a message was received from the aircraft stating the occupants were about to change over.

At about this time the weather deteriorated over portion of the training area with some cloud at the lower level. This cleared within 15 minutes and good conditions prevailed. Shortly after the above signal, the aircraft was observed entering cloud, after which it was not seen again from the drome. At 2105 hours a report was received that the aircraft had crashed some miles north of Bundaberg. The aircraft had crashed in a cane field on the property of Mr E Green “Meadowvald”, and both the trainee Pilots had been killed. Both were on no 27 (P) course and two weeks from completing their SFTS training.

Crew: RAAF 425600 LAC J S Cavill, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 418099 LAC J W Glew, (Trainee Pilot)

Both are buried in the Bundaberg General Cemetery, Queensland.

144 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

415730 Leading Aircraftsman GOODING, Beaumont Ray

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/118/583 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 11 EFTS Benalla

Summary: On the 25th December 1942, LAC Gooding, a Trainee Pilot, dived into a swimming pool near Benalla during a stand down period, and was seriously injured suffering a fractured spine. He died of his injuries on the 27th December at No 6 RAAF Hospital, and is buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

145 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

402657 Leading Aircraftsman GORDON, Ian Samuel

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/118/125, Series A9845 Wirraway crashes Part 1. Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-4 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 16th February 1941, Wirraway A20-4 crashed at Wagga Wagga drome, and the crew of two were killed.

Crew: RAAF 710 PO Dodgshun, R C (Pilot) RAAF 402657 LAC I S Gordon, (Trainee Pilot)

PO Dodgshun is buried in the Box Hill General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Gordon is buried in the Manly Cemetery, Sydney, NSW.

146 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

428043 Leading Aircraftsman GOYNE, Alan Kenneth

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/167 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AS900 Radio call sign: Unit: ! SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 19th July 1943, Oxfords AS900 and EB897 collided in the air during a formation training exercise, and crashed at 0850 hours near the Durdidwarrah Dam, seven miles east of Meredith, Victoria, and all were killed.

Crew: AS900 RAAF 419848 FO Crane, N I (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 34331 LAC D G Haig, (2nd Pilot)

Crew: EB897 RAAF 418266 LAC A I Gumley, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 428043 LAC A K Goyne, (2nd Pilot)

All four are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

147 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

410543 Sergant GRAHAM, Frank

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/16/122 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: N9258 Radio call sign: Unit: 11 EFTS Benalla

Summary: On the 7th July 1943, Tiger Moth N9258 crashed at 0500 hours, half a mile east from the Benalla drome, and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft was carrying out a night dual instructional flying exercise, and was half way along the downwind leg of a circuit of the drome, when it dived vertically into the ground.

Crew: RAAF 410543 Sgt F Graham, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 429783 LAC V B O’Dowd, (Trainee Dual pilot)

Both are buried in the Benalla War Cemetery, Victoria.

148 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

407789 Leading Aircraftsman GRAHAM, Walter Osborne

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/118/170 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-220 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 20th June 1941, Wirraway A20-220 crashed at 1000 hours at Molebo, nine miles North West of Wagga, and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft had been on a dual cross country flight, and attempted a forced landing due to fog. It dived into the ground and burst into flames on impact.

Crew: RAAF 448 Flt Lt Woodhill AM (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 407789 LAC W O Graham, (Trainee Pilot Dual)

Both the crew are buried in the Wagga Wagga General Cemetery, NSW.

149 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

261513 Squadron Leader GRANT, George Beresford

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9300, Barcode 5260308 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: RAAF Staff College, Point Cook

Summary: On the 18th June 1944, Sqn Ldr Grant (A & SD) was admitted for treatment to No 3 RAAF Hospital. He was discharged from the RAAF on the 19th September 1944, medically unfit. He died on the 10th September 1946, and is buried in the Randwick General Cemetery, Sydney, NSW.

150 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

419000 Sergeant GREEN, Desmond Thomas

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/3/87 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Avro Cadet Trainer Serial number: A6-14 Radio call sign: Unit: CFS Tamworth

Summary: On the 3rd August 1943, an Avro Cadet Trainer A6-14 during a non operational training flight crashed at approx 1500 hours 13 miles south east of Tamworth, NSW. The crew of two were killed in the accident.

Crew: RAAF 419000 Sgt D T Green, (Pilot) RAAF 418784 Sgt W G Anderson, (2nd Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Tamworth Wear Cemetery, NSW.

151 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

407118 Flying Officer GREEN, Harry Thompson

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/34/145 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-392 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 19th November 1941, Wirraway A20-392 crashed at 1110 hours at Pt Cook drome, and the crew weer killed. During dual circuit and landings, the aircraft struck a steam roller stack on take off, and immediately dived into a tree on the western side of the northern drome.

Crew: RAAF 407118 FO Green, H T (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 412274 LAC J C Smail, (Dual Trainee Pilot)

FO Green is buried in the Adelaide (Centennial Park) Cemetery, South Australia. LAC Smail was cremated at the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, and his name is recorded on the Victoria Cremation Memorial.

152 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

441354 Flight Sergeant GREEN, James Alfred

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/16/750 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: Advanced Flying & Refresher Deniliquin

Summary: On the 15th August 1945, at approx 4.30pm, a Mr Gemmel was riding a horse in Harfleur St, towards the town of Deniliquin, when at the corner of Harfleur and Hughes St., he stopped to talk to Flt Sgt Green. After a conversation, Mr Gemmel took his left foot out of the strirrup, and Flt Sgt Green put his left foot in the stirrup, and got on the horse behind Mr Gemmel. Immediately he got on the horse, the horse plunged forward suddenly. Flt sgt green had his arms around Mr Gemmels waist, and the sudden movement caused Green to lose balance and fall to the roadway. He was knocked unconscious and bleeding from the nose and ear. Flt Sgt green was placed in a car and taken to hospital. He died on the 16th August from his injuries of concussion and a fractured skull. He is buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

153 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

31528 Aircraftsman Class 1 GREEN, James Tasman

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/115/90 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 11 EFTS Benalla

Summary: On the 26th April 1942, LAC Gale, a Messman, was injured in a car accident in the Benalla Township. He died of his injuries on the 28th April, 1942, and is buried in the Footscray Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. AC1 Green, an Aircraft hand, was killed in the same accident, and is buried in the Benalla Cemetery, Victoria.

154 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

418266 Leading Aircraftsman GUMLEY, Albert Ian

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/167 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AS900 Radio call sign: Unit: ! SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 19th July 1943, Oxfords AS900 and EB897 collided in the air during a formation training exercise, and crashed at 0850 hours near the Durdidwarrah Dam, seven miles east of Meredith, Victoria, and all were killed.

Crew: AS900 RAAF 419848 FO Crane, N I (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 34331 LAC D G Haig, (2nd Pilot)

Crew: EB897 RAAF 418266 LAC A I Gumley, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 428043 LAC A K Goyne, (2nd Pilot)

All four are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

155 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

36267 Aircraftsman Class 1 GUNNING, Milton Robert

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/119/23 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 19th November 1941, AC1 Gunning, a Trainee armourer, drowned in the surf at Nambucca Heads, NSW. He is buried in the Botany Cemetery, Sydney, NSW.

156 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

614 Flying Officer HACK, Lionel Barton

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705 53/1 /886 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-201 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 SFTS Amberley

Summary: On the 19th January 1941, Wirraway A30-201 crashed during a training flight near Murwillumbah NSW and the crew of two were killed.

Crew: RAAF 614 FO Hack, L B (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 402265 LAC L W Turner, (Pupil Pilot)

PO Hack is buried at the Ipswich General Cemetery, Queensland. LAC Turner was cremated at the Newcastle Crematorium, Beresfield and his name is recorded on the NSW Cremation Memorial, Sydney NSW.

157 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

437342 Sergeant HADDON, Leslie Raymond

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/17/469 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: X6805 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 3rs February 1944, Oxford X6805 crashed at 1430 hours, 5.5 miles south of Ballan, Victoria, during a beam approach exercise, and the crew of three were killed.

Crew: RAAF 437342 Sgt L R Haddon, (Staff Pilot/Beam Approach Instructor) RAAF 434577 Sgt R H Hooker, (Beam Approach course under Instruction) RAAF 430169 Sgt R J Harvey, (Beam Approach course under Instruction)

All three are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

158 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

406010 Flight Sergeant HAFFNER, Ernest Louis

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/100/219 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-370 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 24th June 1942, Wirraway A20-370 crashed at 1345 hours, at Stud Park; 16 miles north of Deniliquin, NSW, and both the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 406010 Flt Sgt E L Haffner, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 415466 LAC K Davidson, (Trainee Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Deniliquin General Cemetery, NSW.

159 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

261513 Squadron Leader GRANT, George Beresford

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9300 Barcode 5260308 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: RAAF Staff College Point Cook

Summary: On the 16th September 1944, Sqn Ldr Grant (A & SD) was discharged from the RAAF permanently medically unfit. He died on the 10th September 1946, and is buried in the Randwick General Cemetery, Sydney, NSW.

160 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

34331 LeadingAircraftsman HAIG, David George

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/167 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AS900 Radio call sign: Unit: ! SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 19th July 1943, Oxfords AS900 and EB897 collided in the air during a formation training exercise, and crashed at 0850 hours near the Durdidwarrah Dam, seven miles east of Meredith, Victoria, and all were killed.

Crew: AS900 RAAF 419848 FO Crane, N I (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 34331 LAC D G Haig, (2nd Pilot)

Crew: EB897 RAAF 418266 LAC A I Gumley, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 428043 LAC A K Goyne, (2nd Pilot)

All four are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

161 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

405840 Sergeant HAILEY, Kenneth Walter

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/95/289 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2435 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: The Light House keeper at Cape Willoughby Light House, Kangaroo Island, South Aust, reported that at about 1815 hours on the 3rd June 1943, an aircraft flying low from the south east circled the Light House three or four times flashing a Morse lamp, and that it headed out to sea in a south east direction about 1835 hours. The aircraft alighted in the sea about 1907 hours, and in response to a Morse lamp signal requesting what was required, replied –“Boat” The Light House keeper had no boat. The aircraft was about half a mile south east of the Lighthouse, and was drifting to the south, and it was lost sight of about one mile south of the Tower. Extensive air and naval searches were conducted for the missing aircraft and crew but no trace was found. On the 7th June 1942, the search was abandoned.

Crew: RAAF 6732 Sgt F R Cassidy, (Pilot) RAAF 405840 Sgt K W Hailey, (Observer) RAAF 405506 Sgt D R Stewart, (Wireless Air Gunner) RAAF LAC L F Pickup, (Trainee Pilot) PAX

The missing crew have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial which stands in the Sydney War Cemetery. The Cemetery is 17kms west of Sydney.

162 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

416956 Leading Aircraftsman HAINES, Norman Dudley

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/95/331 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: R3542 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 4th August 1942, Anson R3542 and Anson W2165 collided at 0950 hours, over Monteith, South Australia, when in full flight during formation flying.R3542 crashed into the Murray river in water 90 feet deep, and W2165 crashed on the river bank. All on board both aircraft lost their lives in the accident.

Crew: R3542 RAAF 2366 FO Wotzko, L V (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413187 Sgt G Cooper, (Observer) RAAF 416929 LAC L Cadd, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 416956 LAC N D Haines, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: W2165 RAAF 406625 Sgt H G Phillips, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413018 Sgt M J Nichols, (Observer) RAAF 409484 LAC C McC Say, (Pupil Pilot) RAAF 420056 LAC J B Richardson, (Pupil Pilot)

Crew: R3542 FO Wotzko and LAC Haines have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is located in the Sydney War Cemetery which is about 17kms west of Sydney. Sgt Cooper and LAC Cadd are buried in the Murray Bridge Cemetery, South Australia.

Crew: W2165 Sgt Phillips was cremated at the South Aust Government Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the South Aust Cremation Memorial. Sgt Nichols is buried in the South Maitland (Kurri Kurri) Cemetery, NSW. LAC Richardson and LAC Say are buried in the Mallala War Cemetery, South Australia.

163 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

121598 Leading Aircraftsman HALEY, Francis Olef

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/17/642 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-122 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 25th June 1944, Wirraway A20-122 crashed at 2330 hours during a night solo training flight, 9 miles ESE of Deniliquin, NSW. The trainee pilot was killed

Crew: RAAF 121598 LAC F O Haley, (Solo Trainee Pilot)

LAC Haley is buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

164 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

61077 Aircraftsman Class 1 HAMILTON, William McKenzie

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/17/30 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 31st January 1943, AC1 Hamilton, a Fitter 11E, and an emergency MT driver, was dangerously injured, when the tender he was driving collided with an aircraft, as it was landing at Bradleys Field satellite drome, 8 miles west of Deniliquin. He died of his injuries and is buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

165 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

423539 Leading Aircraftsman HARDING, Graham Murray

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/55 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: DH 82 Serial number: A17-174 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 EFTS Narrandera

Summary: On the 9th March 1943, DH 82’s A17-174 and A17-257 collided in full flight at 600 feet, during a forced landing practice, and all on board were killed. Eye witnesses stated: “One of the planes was on the last crosswind leg of a forced; landing approach, when it collided into the side of the second aircraft, which was on it’s into wind leg preparatory to landing.” It was considered that the airscrew of the first plane struck the oil tank of the second plane on the left hand side, and both aircraft crashed in a spin.

Crew: A17-174 RAAF 407571 FO Connellan, V T (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 422979 LAC P McL Phillips, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

Crew: A17-257 RAAF 401616 FO Croft, C E (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 423539 LAC G M Harding, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

All the four are buried in the Narrandera War Cemetery, NSW

166 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

411449 Sergeant HARIVEL, John Arthur

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/120/420 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AS357 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 11th April 1942, Oxford AS357 crashed in the sea at 0210 hours, one mile south east of the Point Cook pier, and the pilot was missing believed killed.

Crew: RAAF 411449 Sgt J A Harivel, (Instructor Pilot) Missing RAAF LAC G L Edwards, (Dual trainee Pilot) Slightly injured

Sgt Harivel has no known grave. His name is commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which stands in the Sydney War Cemetery, about 17kms west of Sydney, NSW.

167 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

433422 Leading Aircraftsman HARKNESS, Geoffrey Clyde

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/17/531 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-493 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 13th April 1944, Wirraway A20-493 crashed at 0500 hours, approx 1.5 miles west of the Uranquinty drome and the pilot was killed. The aircraft was engaged in a solo night flying exercise, and was making a circuit to land. It was seen to enter a small cloud above 1,000 feet, from which it emerged in a diving turn from which it did not recover, and it hit the ground.

Crew: RAAF 433422 LAC G C Harkness, (Trainee solo Pilot)

LAC Harkness is buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

168 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

430167 Leading Aircratsman HARPER, Noel James

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/14/96 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AS 615 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 13th September 1943, Oxfords AS615 and SN271 collided in full flight at 1155 hours, and crashed at Salt Lake, half a mile north east of the Point Cook drome. Both crews were killed in the accident.

Crew: AS615 RAAF 19923 LAC J H Friday, (Trainee Solo Pilot)

Crew: SN271 RAAF 430167 LAC N J Harper, (Trainee Solo Pilot) RAAF 432972 LAC V M Purkiss, (Trainee Solo Pilot) PAX

All three are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

169 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

411141 Flight Sergeant HART, Thomas Harley

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/7/158 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: BF983 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 4th August 1943, Oxford BF983 and Boomerang A46-103 collided in the air, the three in the Oxford were killed in the accident, and Sqn Ldr Harper, the pilot of the Boomerang was uninjured. Sgt Caiger a Pilot in the Oxford was under dual instruction for a beam approach exercise. The Oxford, (BF983) was flying on a southerly course 1.5 miles west of Laverton drome. Sqn Ldr Cuming was flying a Wirraway A20-526 and was overtaking the Oxford during the course of photographing the Boomerang, but was well clear on the starboard side of the Oxford. Apparently the Wirraway was obscuring Sqn Ldr Harper’s view of the Oxford, and just as the Wirraway drew level with the Oxford, Sqn Ldr Harper changed position from the starboard side to the port side of the Wirraway in order to place himself in the correct position re the camera and the sun.

His attention was momentarily focussed on the Wirraway, and he did not see the Oxford until his port wing tip was virtually hitting the tail of the Oxford. The wing cut through the rear fuselage of the Oxford causing it to spin to the ground. The Boomerang was badly damaged but Sqn Ldr Harper landed the aircraft back at the Laverton drome.

Crew: RAAF 411141 Flt Sgt T H Hart, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 424963 Sgt V K Caiger, (Pilot under dual instruction) RAAF 424859 Sgt K G Dawson, (

All the crew are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne. Victoria.

170 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

45752 Leading Aircraftsman HARTNELL, William Perryman

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/120/665 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 5th November 1942, LAC Hartnell, a Carpenter & Rigger, was admitted to SSQ dangerously wounded with a bullet wound in the head. He died of his wounds on the 7th November 1942, and is buried in the Perth (Karrakatta) General Cemetery, Western Australia.

171 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

406246 Leading Aircraftsman HARVEY, Reginald Victor

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/120/181 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-169 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 SFTS Amberley

Summary: On the 15th April 1941, Wirraway A20-169 crashed at 1600 hours, near Mutdapilly, about 10 miles south west of Amberley, and the crew were killed. The aircraft was carrying out air to ground gunnery practice, when it dived into the ground.

Crew: RAAF 407063 Sgt P B McLaughlan, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 406246 LAC R V Harvey, (Trainee Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Ipswich General Cemetery, Queensland.

172 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

430169 Sergeant HARVEY, Robert Joseph

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/17/469 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: X6805 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 3rs February 1944, Oxford X6805 crashed at 1430 hours, 5.5 miles south of Ballan, Victoria, during a beam approach exercise, and the crew of three were killed.

Crew: RAAF 437342 Sgt L R Haddon, (Staff Pilot/Beam Approach Instructor) RAAF 434577 Sgt R H Hooker, (Beam Approach course under Instruction) RAAF 430169 Sgt R J Harvey, (Beam Approach course under Instruction)

All three are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

173 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

265 Flight Lieutenant HAWDON, John Beresford

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/35/99 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-194 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 SFTS Amberley

Summary: On the 25th April 1941, Wirraway A20-194 crashed at 0011 hours near Amberley drome and the pilot was killed. The aircraft was on a night solo practice flight, and it dived into the ground.

Crew: RAAF 265 Flt Lt Hawdon, J B (Pilot)

Flt Lt Hawdon is buried in the Ipswich General Cemetery, Queensland.

174 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

408993 Leading Aircraftsman HAYTER, Keith Grant

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/120/372 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: A4-31 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 13th February 1942, Ansons A4-32 and A4-6 collided after take off a 6SFTS Mallala, and all on board were killed.

Crew: A4-31 RAAF 409005 LAC K A Mustow, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 408993 LAC K G Hayter, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: A4-6 RAAF 408920 LAC S L McFarlane, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 408472 LAC C T C Shoppee, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Mustow is buried in the Booroondara General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Hayter is buried in the Brighton General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC McFarlane is buried in the Fawkner Memorial Park Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Shoppee was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, Victoria.

175 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

426590 Leading Aircraftsman HEMPENSTALL, Terence John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301 Barcode 5526120 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A11-113 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Narromine

Summary: On the 23rd December 1943, at 1920 hours, Tiger Moths A11-113 and A17-472 collided at a height of 800 feet in the circuit area of Narromine drome, and both pilots were killed in the accident. The aircraft crashed approx 1.5 miles NNE of the north eastern boundary of the drome.

Crew: A11-113 RAAF 426773 LAC T D Berndt, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: A17-472 RAAF 426590 LAC T J Hempenstall, (Trainee Pilot)

Both pilots are buried in the Narromine General Cemetery, NSW.

176 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

420797 Flight Lieutenant HENRY, Lance Eric Gordon

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/17/940 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: HN318 Radio call sign: Unit: Central Flying School Point Cook

Summary: On the 11th January 1945, Oxford HN318 during a low flying exercise, crashed 500 yards North West of Little River satellite drome, Victoria, and the crew of two were killed.

Crew: RAAF 420797 Flt Lt Henry, L E G (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 419852 FO Kitchen, J E (Pupil Pilot)

Both are buried in the Geelong Eastern Cemetery, Victoria.

177 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

2151 Flying Officer HERBERT, William Valentine AFC

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/35/131 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 8 EFTS Narrandera

Summary: On the 21st September 1941, FO Herbert (A & SD) died as a result of fall from a cliff at Newport NSW, while on sick leave. He name is recorded on he NSW Cremation Memorial, which is located within the building which forms the entrance to the Sydney War Cemetery, NSW.

178 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

410195 Leading Aircraftsman HINSLEY, David James

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/178/505 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-344 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 24th December 1942, Wirraways A20-344 and A20-249 collided in mid air during formation flying practice; nine miles west of Mathoura, NSW, and both trainee pilots were killed.

Crew: A20-344 RAAF 410930 LAC G M Williams, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: A20-249 RAAF 410195 LAC D J Hinsley, (Trainee Pilot)

Both trainee pilots are buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW

179 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

403052 Leading Aircraftsman HODGE, Thomas Elliott Mays

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/123/84 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-254 Radio call sign: Unit: 4 EFTS Mascot

Summary: On the 5th April 1941, Tiger Moth A17-254 collided in the air with A17-252 and crashed on the Lakes Golf Links, Sydney. The crew in A17-254 were killed.

Crew: RAAF 3514 PO Holt, J (Pilot) RAAF 403052 LAC T E M Hodge, (Trainee Pilot)

The names of both the crew are recorded on the NSW Cremation Memorial, which is within the building which forms the entrance to the Sydney War Cemetery, NSW.

180 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

407967 Sergeant HODGES, Lyle William

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/97/143 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W1608 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 5th June 1942, Anson W1608 during an operational patrol became lost due to bad weather and darkness, and due to lack of fuel it forced landed and crashed at 2020 hours, two miles north of Biggenden, Queensland. The crew of three were killed.

Crew: RAAF 407967 Sgt L W Hodges, (Pilot) RAAF 408813 Sgt S L Kilpatrick, (Observer) RAAF 416556 Sgt T B Clark, (Wireless Air Gunner)

Sgt’s Hodges and Clark are buried in the Bundaberg General Cemetery, Queensland. Sgt Kilpatrick is buried in the Shepparton Public Cemetery, Victoria.

181 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

16946 Sergeant HOLDER, Harry

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301 Barcode 4562775 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Gorrie

Summary: On the 6th December 1944, Sgt Holder, a Fitter 11A, was discharged from the RAAF medically unfit for further service. He died on the 22nd November 1946. He was cremated in the Karrakatta Crematorium, Perth WA, and his name is recorded on the West Australian Cremation Memorial, Perth.

182 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

400225 Leading Aircraftsman HOLDER, Kenneth George

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 53/1/735 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Narromine

Summary: On the 21st September 1940, LAC Holder, a Pilot, at approx 10pm was struck by a motor lorry while he was walking along the road leading to the camp with two other airmen. He was admitted to the Dubbo District Hospital dangerously injured, and died on the 22nd September 1940. LAC Holder was cremated in the Fawkner Crematorium which is located within the grounds of the Fawkner Memorial Park Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

183 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

431775 Leading Aircraftsman HOLT, Eric James

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/39/213 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: T5411 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 EFTS Western Junction

Summary: On the 27th January 1944, Tiger Moths T5411 and A17-274 collided in full light during solo flying practices, and crashed at 0750 hours, two miles south west of Western Junction drome, Tasmania. Both the trainee pilots lost their lives.

Crew: T5411 RAAF 53567 LAC H R Taylor, (Trainee pilot) Killed

Crew: A17-274 RAAF 431775 LAC E J Holt, (Trainee Pilot) Died of Injuries

Both the trainee pilots are buried in the Carr Villa General Cemetery, Launceston, Tasmania.

184 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

3514 Pilot Officer HOLT, Jack

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/123/84 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-254 Radio call sign: Unit: 4 EFTS Mascot

Summary: On the 5th April 1941, Tiger Moth A17-254 collided in the air with A17-252 and crashed on the Lakes Golf Links, Sydney. The crew in A17-254 were killed.

Crew: RAAF 3514 PO Holt, J (Pilot) RAAF 403052 LAC T E M Hodge, (Trainee Pilot)

The names of both the crew are recorded on the NSW Cremation Memorial, which is within the building which forms the entrance to the Sydney War Cemetery, NSW.

185 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

434577 Sergeant HOOKER, Robert Hendry

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/17/469 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: X6805 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 3rs February 1944, Oxford X6805 crashed at 1430 hours, 5.5 miles south of Ballan, Victoria, during a beam approach exercise, and the crew of three were killed.

Crew: RAAF 437342 Sgt L R Haddon, (Staff Pilot/Beam Approach Instructor) RAAF 434577 Sgt R H Hooker, (Beam Approach course under Instruction) RAAF 430169 Sgt R J Harvey, (Beam Approach course under Instruction)

All three are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

186 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

414447 Leading Aircraftsman HOOPER, Ronald John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/116/36 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-221 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 20th July 1942, Wirraway A20-221 crashed 15 miles east of Deniliquin, NSW, and the crew on board were killed in the accident.

Crew: RAAF 414447 LAC R J Hooper, (Safety Pilot) RAAF 414373 LAC C Germain, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Hooper is buried in the Tewantin Cemetery, Queensland. LAC Germain is buried in the Deniliquin General Cemetery, NSW.

187 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

Flight Lieutenant HORNER, Hugh Vaughan

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9300 Barcode 5240542 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 18th December 1939, Flt Lt Horner and LAC King were killed in a flying accident, at Richmond, NSW.

Crew: RAAF Flt Lt Horner, H V (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 3891 LAC L J King, (W/T Operator)

Flt Lt Horner was cremated at the Rookwood Crematorium, Sydney, NSW. The Crematorium is within the boundary of the Rookwood Necropolis, which is 11 miles west of Sydney. LAC King was cremated in the Mt Thompson Crematorium, Brisbane, Queensland.

188 nAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

27786 Corporal HORRIGAN, James Denis

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/18/129 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2556 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 14th July 1943, Anson W2556 took off at 1430 hours, detailed to carry out a test flight after a 240 hourly inspection. The aircraft failed to return from the flight, and fragments of the missing aircraft were found washed ashore near Parham on the eastern side of St Vincents Gulf, South Australia, but no sign of the missing crew. It was presumed that they had lost their lives at sea.

Crew: RAAF 406662 FO Pettit, J F (Pilot) RAAF 27786 Cpl J D Horrigan, (Fitter 11E) RAAF 59315 LAC D B Tucker, (Electrician) RAAF 116182 AC1 D Whenan, (Instrument Repairer) RAAF 45971 AC1 J V C Matheson, (Fitter 11A)

All the crew have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is located in the Sydney War Cemetery, situated about 17kms west of Sydney.

189 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

271512 Flight Lieutenant HOWARD, George Hector

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/3/80 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: R6194 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 10th August 1943, Oxford R6194 and Oxford A7139 collided in the air in full flight, three were killed in the accident and two dangerously injured

Crew: R6194 RAAF 408615 FO Allen, A J (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 432525 LAC J G Leggoe, (Trainee Dual Pilot) Dangerously injured RAAF 20775 LAC A A Hughes, (Trainee Dual Pilot)Died of his Injuries

Crew: A7139 RAAF 271512 Flt Lt Howard, G H (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 432063 LAC D W Lynch, (Trainee Dual Pilot) Killed

Flt Lt Howard and LAC Lynch are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. FO Allen was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, Victoria LAC Hughes is buried in the Geelong Eastern Cemetery, Victoria.

190 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

414138 Pilot Officer HOWARD, Vivian Arthur

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/276 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-443 Radio call sign: Unit: 10 EFTS Temora

Summary: On the 29th October 1943, Tiger Moth A17-443 crashed during a training flight at 1200 hours, 8 miles WNW of the main drome at Temora, NSW, and both the crew were killed A17-443 collided in full flight with A17-179.

Crew: A17-443 RAAF 414138 PO Howard, V A (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 431041 LAC A D Crockford, (Trainee Pilot) Killed

Crew: A17-179 RAAF 430744 LAC P R Armstrong, (Trainee Pilot) Safe

Both PO Howard and LAC Crockford are buried in the Temora General Cemetery, NSW.

191 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

432 Flying Officer HUBBARD, Guy

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/36/74 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-32 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Narromine

Summary: On the 3rd December 1940, Tiger Moth A17-32 crashed just outside the eastern boundary of the Narromine drome at 1100 hours, and the pilot was killed. The aircraft stalled at a height of 50 feet while it was gliding into land. It was considered that the probable cause of the accident was that the pilot turned quickly to avoid a probable collision with another aircraft.

Crew: RAAF 432 FO Hubbard, G (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF LAC W C Bate, (Pupil Pilot) Seriously injured

FO Hubbard is buried in the Narromine General Cemetery, NSW.

192 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

423123 Flight Sergeant HUDSON, George Harold

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/18/204 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 8th September 1943, Flt Sgt Hudson, an airman Pilot, was admitted to SSQ Bundaberg, diagnosed with sub acute Bacterial Endocarditis. On the 1st October he was transferred to the 112th AGH Greenslopes and on 15th October to No 3 RAAF Hospital. He died on the 29th February 1944, and is buried in the Northern Suburbs General Cemetery, Sydney, NSW.

193 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

20775 Leading Aircraftsman HUGHES, Arthur Austin

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/3/80 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: R6194 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 10th August 1943, Oxford R6194 and Oxford A7139 collided in the air in full flight, three were killed in the accident and two dangerously injured

Crew: R6194 RAAF 408615 FO Allen, A J (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 432525 LAC J G Leggoe, (Trainee Dual Pilot) Dangerously injured RAAF 20775 LAC A A Hughes, (Trainee Dual Pilot)Died of his Injuries

Crew: A7139 RAAF 271512 Flt Lt Howard, G H (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 432063 LAC D W Lynch, (Trainee Dual Pilot) Killed

Flt Lt Howard and LAC Lynch are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. FO Allen was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, Victoria LAC Hughes is buried in the Geelong Eastern Cemetery, Victoria.

194 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

665 Flying Officer HUGHES, George Campbell

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/36/94 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: R3553 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 SFTS Amberley

Summary: On the 30th July 1941, Anson R3553 crashed at 0030 hours while night flying and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft hit trees on the boundary of the Amberley drome during an approach to land.

Crew: RAAF 665 FO Hughes, G C (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 416010 LAC H M White, (Trainee Pilot)

Both the crew were cremated at the Mt Thompson Crematorium, Brisbane, Queensland.

195 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

406250 Leading Aircraftsman HUMPHRY, Raymond Alexander

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/24/120 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-201 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 SFTS Amberley

Summary: On the 12th February 1941, Wirraways A20-201 and A20-1388 crashed at 1245 hours at 3SFTS Amberley in a collision on the ground. The aircraft collided head on, when one of the aircraft taking off struck the other aircraft taxying back after landing.

Crew: A0-201 RAAF 558 FO Black, P A (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 406250 LAC R A Humphry, (Trainee Pilot) Killed

Crew: A20-1388 RAAF 1945 Flt Sgt N Watson (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 406229 LAC B P Scott, (Trainee Pilot) Seriously Injured

FO Black and LAC Humphry are buried in the Ipswich General Cemetery, Queensland. Flt Sgt Watson was cremated in the Mt Thompson Crematorium, Brisbane, and his name is recorded on the Queensland Cremation Memorial, Brisbane.

196 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

29650 Leading Aircraftsman HUNT, Campbell Vernon

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/124/173 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 11th August 1942, LAC Hunt, a Fitter 11E, was killed accidentally at 2220 hours, when he was struck by an aircraft propeller when on duty. He was cremated at the West Terrace Cemetery, Adelaide, South Australia.

197 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

497 Flight Lieutenant HUNTER, Donald Harry

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/36/146 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Kittyhawk Serial number: P40E 183 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 SFTS Amberley

Summary: On the 4th February 1942, Kittyhawk 183 crashed near Nerang, 60 miles from Amberley, in heavily timbered country while engaged in running in the engine, and the pilot was killed.

Crew: RAAF 497 Flt Lt Hunter, D H (Pilot)

Flt Lt Hunter is buried in the Coonabarabran Cemetery, NSW. Coonabarabran is on the Oxley Highway about 130 miles west of Tamworth.

198 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

417194 Leading Aircraftsman HUNTER, Ian McIntyre

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/93/585A Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A72-236 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 EFTS Parafield

Summary: On the 20th July 1942, Tiger Moth A72-236 crashed into an outgoing aircraft while coming in to land, and the Pilot was killed. A17-234 was taking off as A72-236 was coming into land. Both aircraft converged at approx 100 feet, and in an attempt to avoid an accident, A72-236 turned steeply climbing left, stalled and crashed.

Crew: A72-236 RAAF 416203 Sgt C McD Broadfoot, (Instructor Pilot) Killed

Crew: A17-234 RAAF 417194 LAC I McI Hunter, (Trainee Pilot) Seriously Injured * * Died of his injuries on 28th July1942.

Sgt Broadfoot is buried in the Mitcham Cemetery, Adelaide, South Australia. LAC Hunter is buried in the North Road Anglican Cemetery, Adelaide, South Australia.

199 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

412965 Leading Aircraftsman HURLEY, Frank Louis

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/101/97 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: T5486 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 EFTS Western Junction

Summary: On the 4th February 1942, Tiger Moths T5486 and T5463 collided in full flight and crashed at approx 1000 hours, one mile west of Cressy, Tasmania. Three were killed. The crew in T5486 were carrying out Instructors practice flying. LAC Hurley in T5463 was receiving dual instruction.

Crew: T5486 RAAF 408038 Sgt G R Dean, (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 408097 Sgt J H Rust, (Instructor Pilot) Baled out slightly injured

Crew: T5463 RAAF 2350 FO Scascighini, J (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 412965 LAC F L Hurley, (Trainee Pilot) Killed

Sgt Dean was cremated in the Carr Villa Crematorium, Launceston, Tasmania. FO Scascighini is buried in the Burwood Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Hurley is buried in the Carr Villa Cemetery, Launceston Tasmania. The Cemetery is about four miles from the Launceston GPO.

200 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

408654 Leading Aircraftsman HUTCHINS, Bernard George

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/92/87 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W 2254 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 14th October 1941, while flying with a pupil on the usual circuits in Anson W2254, the aircraft had reached a position to make a glide in to land, when it collided with another aircraft making a similar circuit. Both machines crashed at 8.30am and both crews were killed.

Crew: W2254 RAAF 407163 Sgt I B Blacker, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 408654 LAC B G Hutchins, (Pupil Pilot)

Crew: W2257 RAAF 402680 PO Somerville, C E (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 416356 LAC J G Maslen, (Pupil Pilot)

Sgt Blacker is buried in the Tumby Bay General Cemetery, South Australia. LAC Huchins is buried in the Burwood General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. PO Somerville was cremated in the Soth Aust Government Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the South Australian Cremation Memorial. LAC Maslen is buried in the Port Adelaide & Suburban Cemetery, South Australia.

201 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

413204 Flight Sergeant JAY, Noel Swanston

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/20/56 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-68 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 EFTS Narrandera

Summary: On the 17th August 1943, Tiger Moth A17-68 during a training flight, crashed at 1440 hours five miles east of Leeton, NSW, and the Instructor pilot was killed. The aircraft failed to recover from a spin and crashed.

Crew: RAAF 413204 Flt Sgt Jay, (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 433398 LAC G A Staehli, (Trainee pilot) Dangerously injured

Flt Sgt Jay is buried in the Narrandera War Cemetery, NSW.

202 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

411915 Sergeant JAY, Stanley Laurence

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/91/643 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-444 Radio call sign: Unit: 10 EFTS Temora

Summary: On the 8th December 1942, Tiger Moths A17-444 and A17-332 collided in mid air at 2010 hours during circuit and landings practice flight, and all the crews were killed. The collision occurred in mid air at a height of 1,000 feet, and the aircraft crashed in Brays paddock, one mile south east of the Temora drome.

Crew: A17-444 RAAF 423599 LAC N C Beves, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: A17-332 RAAF 411915 Sgt S L Jay, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 422405 LAC K B Bussell, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

The three members are buried in the Temora General Cemetery, NSW.

203 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

408284 Leading Aircraftsman JOHNSTON, Russell Edward

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/92/129 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AT 439 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 12rh April 1942, Oxford AT439 when on a cross country flight, crashed at 1105 hours, three miles north east of Beech Forest, Victoria. The crew of three were killed.

Crew: RAAF 407908 Sgt T W Penn, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 409376 LAC J R Black, (Pupil Pilot) RAAF 408284 LAC R E Johnston, (Pupil Pilot)

Sgt Penn is buried in the Adelaide (Centennial Park) Cemetery, South Australia. LAC Black is buried in the Williamstown General Cemetery, Victoria. LAC Johnston was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium and his name is recorded on the Victorian Cremation Memorial.

204 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

123239 Aircraftsman Class 1 JOHNSTONE, John Edward

Source: AWM 237 (65), Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On 1 May 1943 AC1 Johnstone died of an illness and he is buried at Bundaberg General Cemetery, Queensland.

205 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

401381 Pilot Officer JOLLY, Harold Keith Wishart

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/115/97 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: BF887 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On eh 11`th May 1942, Oxford BF887 crashed in the Bay at 1430 hours, two miles south west of Point Cook, and all on board were killed. The aircraft was out of control and dived into the sea.

Crew: RAAF 401381 PO Jolly, H K W (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 409536 LAC D J F Ganley, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 416394 LAC J E King, (Trainee Pilot)

FO Jolly was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC’s Ganley and King have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is located in the Sydney War Cemetery, 17kms west of Sydney, NSW.

206 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

425 Flying Officer JONES, Basil Goodwin

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/39/52 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: R5186 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 EFTS Western Junction

Summary: On the 30th May 1941, Tiger Moth R5186 crashed at 1120 hours at Symonds Plains, five miles south east of Western Junction, Tasmania, and the Pilot was killed. The aircraft collided with another aircraft during forced landing instruction practice.

Crew: R5186 RAAF 425 FO Jones, B G (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 401489 LAC D S Brown, (Pupil Pilot) Injured

Crew: R5185 RAAF 401483 LAC K A Baxter, (Pupil Pilot) Uninjured.

FO Jones is buried in the Hobart (Cornelian Bay) Public Cemetery, Tasmania.

207 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

425858 Leading Aircraftsman JONES, Cedric Neville

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/21/50 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W1945 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 26th July 1943, Anson W1945 crashed at 1145 hours, eight miles SSE of Elliotts Heads, Queensland, and the crew were killed. The aircraft collided with Anson W1588 during a non-operational formation flying exercise at a height of 4,000 feet. Three aircraft participated in the exercise, each crewed by two trainee pilots, and all were required to change seats at the end of the first hour. The starboard wing of W1945 struck the fuselage of W1588 just below and to the rear of the gun turret. W1945 was leading the formation and W1588 was in the No 2 position. It was considered that the accident was due to disobedience of orders and/or lack of vigilance.

Crew: W1945 RAAF 434033 LAC K H Smith, (Trainee Pilot) Killed RAAF 425858 LAC C N Jones, (Trainee Pilot) Killed

Crew: W1588 RAAF 425925 LAC A G Field, (Trainee Pilot) Uninjured RAAF 432010 LAC M L Perex, (Trainee Pilot) Uninjured

LAC Smith and LAC Jones have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is situated in the Sydney War Cemetery, about 17kms west of Sydney, NSW.

208 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

407062 Pilot Officer JONES, William Hesketh

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/129/150 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-14 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 29th December 1941, Wirraway A20-14 crashed at 1100 hours at Wantabadgery near Junee, NSW, and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft collided with Tiger Moth A20-228, during the break up of an unauthorised formation, and in disobedience of orders and lack of vigilance on the part of the Instructors. Both Flt Sgt Weston and Flt Sgt Cumings, the pilot of an additional aircraft in the formation, were placed under close arrest. Both Weston and Oliver in A20-228 baled out and landed safely.

Crew: A20-14 RAAF 407062 PO Jones, W H (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 414106 LAC V Vickers, (Trainee Pilot) Killed

Crew: A20-228 RAAF 406087 Flt Sgt B Weston, (Instructor Pilot) Uninjured RAAF 414075 LAC J K Oliver, (Trainee pilot) Slightly injured

PO Jones is buried in the North Road Anglican Cemetery, Adelaide, South Australia. LAC Vickers is buried in the Mt Larcom Cemetery, Queensland. Mt Larcom is on the Bruce Highway, 84kms south of Rockhampton.

209 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

21391 Sergeant JULIAN, Harry Wilfed

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/130/3 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 4 EFTS Mascot

Summary: On the 29th December 1941, Sgt Julian, a Clerk Stores, was found in the Equipment Officers office shot with a bullet wound in his head. He died in the 113th Yaralla Hospital, Concord of his wounds. Commonwealth War Graves does not record where he is buried.

210 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

727 Flying Officer KEIG, Gordon Wilson

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/40/38 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-445 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 21st January 1942, Wirraway A20-445 took off at 1900 hours, detailed to carry out a W/T test. After take off the aircraft climbed to 4,000 feet and flew round the drome for five minutes. Then it was seen to go into a dive where it descended to 200 feet, at which height it rolled slowly. Apparently the Pilot was trying to return to normal flight, and the aircraft was seen to roll back violently, after which it lost height rapidly and crashed into some huts on the Uranquinty drome.

Crew: RAAF 727 FO Keig, G W (Pilot) Killed RAAF *26790 LAC J B Monfries, (W/T Operator) Died of injuries *(a member of No 1 Aircraft Depot Laverton)

Both the crew are buried in the Wagga Wagga General Cemetery, NSW.

211 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

79621 Aircraftsman Claass 1 KELLY, James John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/22/349 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 4th November 1944, AC1 Kelly, a Fitter 11A, dived into shallow water at Bargara Beach in Bundaberg, and was dangerously injured suffering a fractured Cervical Vertibrae. He was admitted to the Bundaberg General hospital and died of his injuries on the 5th November 1944. He is buried in the Bundaberg General Cemetery, Queensland.

212 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

417643 Leading Aircraftsman KIERSE, Peter Denis

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/22/36 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 2nd March 1943, LAC Kierse, a trainee Pilot, was detailed to proceed with other airmen to a sandpit approx four miles away, for the purpose of obtaining sand for work being carried out at the unit. They were travelling in the open back of a three ton tender being driven by ACW Trott. While travelling along Owen road, the truck was driven from the left hand side of the road to the centre and passed over a sharp rise, giving a sharp jolt, and causing LAC Kierse to lose balance. He fell from the truck and received injuries from which he died. He is buried in the Mallala War Cemetery, South Australia.

213 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

408813 Sergeant KILPATRICK, Stephen Leigh

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/97/143 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W1608 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 5th June 1942, Anson W1608 during an operational patrol became lost due to bad weather and darkness, and due to lack of fuel it forced landed and crashed at 2020 hours, two miles north of Biggenden, Queensland. The crew of three were killed.

Crew: RAAF 407967 Sgt L W Hodges, (Pilot) RAAF 408813 Sgt S L Kilpatrick, (Observer) RAAF 416556 Sgt T B Clark, (Wireless Air Gunner)

Sgt’s Hodges and Clark are buried in the Bundaberg General Cemetery, Queensland. Sgt Kilpatrick is buried in the Shepparton Public Cemetery, Victoria.

214 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

416394 Leading Aircraftsman KING, John Essery

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/115/97 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: BF887 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On eh 11`th May 1942, Oxford BF887 crashed in the Bay at 1430 hours, two miles south west of Point Cook, and all on board were killed. The aircraft was out of control and dived into the sea.

Crew: RAAF 401381 PO Jolly, H K W (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 409536 LAC D J F Ganley, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 416394 LAC J E King, (Trainee Pilot)

FO Jolly was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC’s Ganley and King have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is located in the Sydney War Cemetery, 17kms west of Sydney, NSW.

215 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

3891 Leading Aircraftsman KING, Leonard John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9300 Barcode 5240542 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 18th December 1939, Flt Lt Horner and LAC King were killed in a flying accident, at Richmond, NSW.

Crew: RAAF Flt Lt Horner, H V (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 3891 LAC L J King, (W/T Operator)

Flt Lt Horner was cremated at the Rookwood Crematorium, Sydney, NSW. The Crematorium is within the boundary of the Rookwood Necropolis, which is 11 miles west of Sydney. LAC King was cremated in the Mt Thompson Crematorium, Brisbane, Queensland.

216 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

410676 Leading Aircraftsman KIRKWOOD, Alfred Buckley

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/133/210 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-187 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 1st December 1942, Wirraway A20-187 on a solo training flight, crashed at 1215 seven miles east of Deniliquin and the trainee pilot was killed

Crew: RAAF 410676 LAC A B Kirkwood, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Kirkwood is buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

217 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

419852 Flying Officer KITCHEN, John Edward

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/17/940 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: HN318 Radio call sign: Unit: Central Flying School Point Cook

Summary: On the 11th January 1945, Oxford HN318 during a low flying exercise, crashed 500 yards North West of Little River satellite drome, Victoria, and the crew of two were killed.

Crew: RAAF 420797 Flt Lt Henry, L E G (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 419852 FO Kitchen, J E (Pupil Pilot)

Both are buried in the Geelong Eastern Cemetery, Victoria.

218 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

408032 Flying Officer KNIGHT, Lyn Geoffrey Reginald

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, A20-166 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-166 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 30th January 1943, Wirraway A20-166 on a circuit and landings exercise, failed to make a clear take off run and struck the top of trees when about 20 feet in the air. The crew of two were dangerously injured in the accident.

Crew: RAAF 408032 FO Knight, L G R (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 419346 LAC K F Slaweski, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

FO Knight died of his injuries on the 2ns February 1943. LAC Slaweski died of his injuries on the 5the February 1943. They are both buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

219 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

22316 Corporal LAMB, George

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/24/494 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 19th July 1944, Cpl Lamb, a Fitter 11A, at approx 1910 hours, was riding his motorcycle along Bourbong St Bundaberg. A pedestrian Sister Moyra Tibby was seen to step from the footpath on to the roadway, and the motorcycle struck her sideways and the cycle skidded to a stand still. Both were taken to the Bundaberg general hospital. Cpl Lamb was admitted, and Sister Tibby treated and then taken to her quarters. Lamb was unconscious when admitted, and died later that evening from a compound fracture of the skull, caused by a blow to the back of the head against the hard flat surface of the road. He is buried in the Bundaberg General Cemetery, Queensland.

220 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

12985 Corporal Le MESCAM, Alexander Bonaparte

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/24/250 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 5th January 1944, Cpl Le Mescam, a Fitter 11A, was admitted to Deniliquin General Hospital dangerously ill from an abdominal abscess, following an operation for an acute appendicitis. He died on the 6th January 1944, and is buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

221 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

419788 Leading Aircraftsman LEAKE, Alan Bruce

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/13/63 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-560 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 EFTS Western Junction

Summary: On the 11th June 1943, Tiger Moth A17-560 during a dual instruction flight, crashed at 1400 hours five miles south of the Western Junction drome, and the crew were killed. The main plane appeared to come off in mid air and the aircraft spun in and hit the ground.

Crew: RAAF 254900 FO Fitton, S (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 419788 LAC A B Lake, (Trainee Pilot)

The crew are buried in the Carr Villa General Cemetery, Launceston, Tasmania.

222 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

421343 Leading Aircraftsman LEARMONT, John Patrick Bruce

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/137/200 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wackett Trainer Serial number: A3-92 Radio call sign: Unit: 11 EFTS Benalla

Summary: On the 5th September 1942, Wackett Trainer A3-92 stalled after a blind take off at 1520 hours, and crashed at the Warbreccan Relief landing ground, near Benalla. LAC Learmont was killed in the accident.

Crew: RAAF 400808 Sgt S J Landy, (Instructor Pilot) Seriously injured RAAF 421343 LAC J P B Learmont, (Trainee Pilot) Killed.

LAC Learmont is buried in the Rookwood Necropolis, Sydney, NSW. The Necropolis is 11 miles west of Sydney.

223 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

400371 Leading Aircraftsman LEMON, John Gray

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 53/1/913 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 17th December 1940, LAC Lemon, a trainee Pilot, died of injuries when the aircraft he was piloting crashed near Brucedale near Wagga Wagga, Mitchell Shire, NSW. He is buried in the Donald Public Cemetery, Victoria.

224 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

419836 Leading Aircraftsman LEWIS, Cyril Markham

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/24/183 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2095 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 23rd September 1943, Anson W2095 took off at 2130 hours, detailed to carry out a night dual cross-country flight. Four aircraft were engaged in the nights exercise. The weather report was favourable, and other pilots reported favourable weather en route. Each Pilot Instructor was told to return to base if the weather deteriorated. .

At 2220 hours the weather at the Mallala drome deteriorated, and the flying was cancelled, but in the absence of wireless equipment on the aircraft, they could not be contacted instructing them to return to base. Of the four aircraft in the exercise, two returned to base when the weather deteriorated, and two of them, including W2095 continued with the exercise. Eye witnesses later said that the weather was extremely bad, and they saw an aircraft circling in the cloud above and emerge from it in a fairly steep dive and crash. W2095 crashed on Mr Sandens property at Tarlee, South Australia, and all the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 29990 Sgt J P Rice, (Staff Pilot) RAAF 284999 FO Weston, I D (Navigator Instructor) RAAF 419836 LAC C M Lewis, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 429980 LAC D N McDonald, (Trainee Pilot)

All the crew are buried in the Mallala War Cemetery, South Australia.

225 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

443782 Leading Aircraftsman LEYSLEY, Leonard Darrell

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/24/558 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-230 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 15th October 1944, Wirraway A20-230 crashed four miles North West of the Rock and the crew were killed. The aircraft was on a night non-operational ferry flight from Belfrayden satellite to the main drome at Uranquinty, and crashed in a dust storm

Crew: RAAF 410404 FO Williams, L H (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 443782 LAC L D Leysley, (Trainee Pilot)

Both are buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

226 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

8969 Leading Aircraftsman LOCK, Allan Frederick

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301 Barcode 4556149 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 25th July 1940, LAC Lock, a Flight Rigger, died of an illness at Fairfield, Melbourne, Victoria, and he is buried in the Box Hill General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

227 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

3402 Flying Officer LOFT, Clarence James Harold

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/43/66 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: BM712 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 23rd January 1943, Oxford BM712 during a non-operational formation flight crashed at 1420 hours, west of the You Yangs near Werribee, Victoria, and the crew of three were killed. BM712 in turning left collided with the tail fin of Oxford X7115 and went into a spin the accident was believed to be an error of judgement by LAC Venn was piloting BM712 at the time.

Crew: BM712 RAAF 3402 FO Loft C J H (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 422769 LAC G S Venn, (Trainee Dual Pilot) Killed RAAF 418494 LAC J S Walker, (Trainee Dual Pilot) Killed

Crew: X7115 RAAF Flt Lt Campbell, (Instructor Pilot) Uninjured

The three who lost their lives are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

228 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

409419 Warrant Officer LOFTUS, Lloyd Morrison

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/25/288 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-208 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 26th March 1945, Wirraway A20-208 crashed at 0906 hours at the gunnery range at Belfraydon during a gunnery training flight, and the crew of two were killed. The accident was considered to be in disobedience of orders followed by poor technique, causing a stall from a steep climbing turn, which was commenced at twenty feet after completion of the gunnery detail.

Crew: RAAF 409613 WO J D Tamlyn, (Pilot Instructor) RAAF 409419 WO L M Loftus, (Refresher Pupil Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

229 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

420765 Leading Aircraftsman LUCAS, Clifford James

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/100/206 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: AW902 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 1st June 1942, Anson AW902 crashed at sea at 1142 hours, at Bargara, Queensland, near Bundaberg, and all the crew were killed. The wreck of the aircraft was located about 1.5 miles off shore in 32 feet of water. Pieces of wreckage were found, but no trace of the missing crew was found.

Crew: RAAF 400394 Flt Sgt R C Davies, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 415485 LAC W J Regan, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 420765 LAC C J Lucas, (Trainee Pilot)

The three missing crew have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is located in the Sydney War Cemetery, which is situated about 17kms west of Sydney.

230 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

432063 Leading Aircraftsman LYNCH, Dallas William

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/3/80 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: R6194 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 10th August 1943, Oxford R6194 and Oxford A7139 collided in the air in full flight, three were killed in the accident and two dangerously injured

Crew: R6194 RAAF 408615 FO Allen, A J (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 432525 LAC J G Leggoe, (Trainee Dual Pilot) Dangerously injured RAAF 20775 LAC A A Hughes, (Trainee Dual Pilot)Died of his Injuries

Crew: A7139 RAAF 271512 Flt Lt Howard, G H (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 432063 LAC D W Lynch, (Trainee Dual Pilot) Killed

Flt Lt Howard and LAC Lynch are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. FO Allen was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, Victoria LAC Hughes is buried in the Geelong Eastern Cemetery, Victoria.

231 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

414247 Leading Aircraftsman LYNCH, Kevin

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/140/110 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: AX656 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 5th October 1942, Anson AX656 took off from Bundaberg for a 1hr 40mts instrument flying exercise. The aircraft failed to return from the exercise. When the aircraft was overdue 20 aircraft searched the area with nil result. On the 11th October 1042, wreckage from the aircraft was washed ashore at Wreck Rock. Also on the 17th October, a back pad of a parachute harness was found on the beach at Moore Park. It was considered possible that parachutes were worn by the crew, as the one found was one of three chutes missing from Z Flight at 8SFTS. It was considered that the aircraft had crashed into the sea, and all the crew had been killed.

Crew: RAAF 273754 PO Turner, G W (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 414247 LAC K Lynch, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 413261 LAC G L Russell, (Trainee Pilot)

The three crew have no known grave, and their names have been commemorated on the Sydney Memorial., NSW. The Memorial is located in the Sydney War Cemetery, which is 17kms west of Sydney.

232 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

261535 Flight Lieutenant MACARTHUR-ONSLOW, Andrew William

AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/9/9 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-45 Radio call sign: Unit: CFS Tamworth

Summary: On the 18th January 1943, Wirraway A20-45 was detailed to carry out low flying practice in the authorised low flying area. The aircraft crashed at 1050 hours, at Curralubula, which is 16 miles south west of Tamworth, NSW, an the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 261535 Flt Lt MacArthur-Onslow, A W (Pilot) RAAF 405724 Sgt T M Dawson, (Pilot)

Both are buried in the Tamworth War Cemetery, NSW.

233 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

Air Cadet MACRAE, Stanley Calvert

Source: AWM 237 (65) Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 9th May 1940, Air Cadet Macrae was killed in an accident at Point Cook. He was cremated at the Springvale Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the Victorian Cremation Memorial.

234 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

52048 Aircraftsman Class 1 MacTAGGART, Robert Alexander

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/141/634 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 18th July 1942, AC1 MacTaggart, a Clerk General, died in a motor cycle accident when the tyre of the machine blew out. Ac1 Langford a passenger was slightly injured. The accident occurred 3 miles North West of Deniliquin.AC1 MacTaggart is buried in the Albury General Cemetery, NSW.

235 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

18686 Leading Aircraftsman MADEN, John Lord

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/141/530 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 11 EFTS Benalla

Summary: On the 23rd March 1942, LAC Maden, a Fitter 11A, was admitted to No 115 Heidelberg Hospital dangerously ill. On the 12th November he was operated on for the reconstruction of the bile duct. And removed from the dangerously ill to seriously ill. He was taken off the seriously ill list on 23rd December 1942. He died on the 22nd February 1945, and is buried in the Yea Public Cemetery, Victoria.

236 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

403354 Sergeant MAGRATH, William Armour

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/142/261 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-258 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 15th December 1941, Wirraway A20-258 crashed at 0920 hours; 3 miles west of Tumut NSW, and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft had been doing low aerobatics over Tumut, and hit trees on a hillside and crashed.

Crew: RAAF 403354 Sgt W A MaGrath, (Test Pilot) RAAF 15281 LAC W J Werner, (Mechanic)

Sgt Magrath is buried in the Emu Plains (St Paul) Anglican Cemetery, NSW. Emu Plains is 1.5 miles west of Penrith, NSW. LAC Werner is buried in the Penrith General Cemetery, NSW.

237 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

404653 Leading Aircraftsman MAHONY, Martin Butler

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/142/124 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-137 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 EFTS Narrandera

Summary: On the 25th March 1941, Tiger Moth A17-137 during a solo practice flight, crashed at 0730 hours two miles north of Matong NSW, and the Pilot was dangerously injured. He was admitted to the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney and died of his injuries at 1440 hours on the 26th March 1941. The aircraft was apparently flying low and struck trees with the port lower main plane and crashed.

Crew: RAAF 404653 LAC M B Mahony, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Mahony is buried in the Field of Mars Cemetery, Rhyde, NSW. Ryde is13 miles north west of Sydney.

238 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

16039 Sergant MARCHANT, Francis Albert

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/27/49 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 19th February 1943, Sgt Marchant, a Fitter 11A, was killed at approx 1830 hours, when he was riding his motor cycle, and it collided with an Army truck at the corner of the Great Western Highway and William St. Geraldton. He is buried in the Geraldton War Cemetery, Western Australia.

239 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

438000 Leading Aircraftsman MARKS, William Elliott

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/27/426 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-55 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 11th may 1944, Wirraway A20-55 during a non-operational training flight, crashed at 1001 hours 1.5 miles south west of the Yarragundry Satellite drome, NSW, and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft appeared to spin out of cloud with a base of 1500 feet, while carrying out a dual general flying check.

Crew: RAAF 406406 Flt Lt O’Sullivan, G J (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 438000 LAC W E Marks, (Trainee Pilot)

Both are buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

240 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

412164 Leading Aircraftsman MARSH, Edward Neville

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/142/226 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Narromine

Summary: On the 13th October 1941, LAC Marsh, a Trainee Pilot, was admitted to the Australian General hospital, suffering from anaemia and assessed dangerously ill. He died of the illness on the 1st January, 1942, and is buried in the Mudgee General Cemetery, NSW.

241 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

416356 Leading Aircraftsman MASLEN, John Gordon

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/92/87 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W 2254 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 14th October 1941, while flying with a pupil on the usual circuits in Anson W2257, the aircraft had reached a position to make a glide in to land, when it collided with another aircraft making a similar circuit. Both machines crashed at 8.30am and both crews were killed.

Crew: W2254 RAAF 407163 Sgt I B Blacker, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 408654 LAC B G Hutchins, (Pupil Pilot)

Crew: W2257 RAAF 402680 PO Somerville, C E (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 416356 LAC J G Maslen, (Pupil Pilot)

Sgt Blacker is buried in the Tumby Bay General Cemetery, South Australia. LAC Huchins is buried in the Burwood General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. PO Somerville was cremated in the Soth Aust Government Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the South Australian Cremation Memorial. LAC Maslen is buried in the Port Adelaide & Suburban Cemetery, South Australia.

242 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

439492 Leading Aircraftsman MASSEY, Kevin Kenneth

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/27/381 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-590 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 21st February 1944, Wirraway A20-590 crashed during a solo night circuits and landings practice, and the trainee pilot was killed. On the first approach, the aircrafts wheels touched the ground and the pilot proceeded to go round again. At a height of about 300 feet, it turned across wind and then down wind, and immediately lost height and crashed about 1.75 miles from the drome.

Crew: RAAF 439492 LAC K K Massey, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Massey is buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

243 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

416593 Leading Aircraftsman MASTERS, James Walter

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/142/330 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-265 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 4th April 1942, A20-265 crashed in the mountains south of Benalla during a non- operational cross country flight, and the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 416593 LAC J W Masters, (Pilot) RAAF 408213 Sgt N W Sowter, (Observer)

LAC Masters is buried in the North Brighton General Cemetery, Adelaide, South Australia. Sgt Sowter is buried in the Benalla Cemetery, Victoria.

244 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

45971 Aircraftsman Class 1 MATHESON, John Vincent Colin

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/18/129 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2556 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 14th July 1943, Anson W2556 took off at 1430 hours, detailed to carry out a test flight after a 240 hourly inspection. The aircraft failed to return from the flight, and fragments of the missing aircraft were found washed ashore near Parham on the eastern side of St Vincent’s Gulf, South Australia, but no sign of the missing crew. It was presumed that they had lost their lives at sea.

Crew: RAAF 406662 FO Pettit, J F (Pilot) RAAF 27786 Cpl J D Horrigan, (Fitter 11E) RAAF 59315 LAC D B Tucker, (Electrician) RAAF 116182 AC1 D Whenan, (Instrument Repairer) RAAF 45971 AC1 J V C Matheson, (Fitter 11A)

All the crew have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is located in the Sydney War Cemetery, situated about 17kms west of Sydney.

245 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

79982 Leading Aircraftsman MATHIS, Donald Frank

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/27/565 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-354 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 EFTS Tamworth

Summary: On the 12th September 1944, Tiger Moth A17-354 took off from the main drome at Tamworth at 1430 hours, on his ‘ab initio” solo training flight. He was detailed to practice spinning, side slipping, steep turns, forced landings and aerobatics, with the flying confined to the training area and duration of 1.5 hours.

At approx 1540 hours, the aircraft was observed by a group of Army defaulters working on the Goonoo Goonoo Station, approx 17 miles south of Tamworth, and two miles outside the training area. The aircraft circled the area at low altitude, and when directly over a motor truck, it seemed to pause in the air, turn rather violently and crash vertically into the ground bursting into flames. It was considered that the aircraft stalled during the low right hand turn, and struck the ground before any corrective action could be taken.

Crew: RAAF 79982 LAC D F Mathis, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Mathis is buried in the Tamworth War Cemetery, NSW.

246 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

426464 Aircraftsman Class 2 MATHISON, Edwin John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/142/451 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 4th September 1942, AC2 Mathison, a DMT, was admitted to Bundaberg General Hospital, Queensland, dangerously ill. He was injured in a collision with a truck and a railway engine at a level crossing adjacent to the Bundaberg railway station. Two other RAAF men in the truck were also injured. AC2 Mathison died of his injuries on the 5th September 1942, and he is buried in the Bundaberg General Cemetery, Queensland.

247 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

53931 Leading Aircraftsman MATTHEWS, Eric John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/142/585 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 29th December 1942, LAC Matthews, a Fitter DMT, was killed when his motor cycle collided with a lorry when he was returning from leave. He is buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

248 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

407004 Squadron Leader MATTHEWS, Daniel Kerr

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/44/109 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-116 Radio call sign: Unit: School of Army Co-operation Canberra

Summary: On the 16th September 1943, Wirraway A20-116 crashed at 1550 hours, eleven miles south east of Araluen, NSW, in the vicinity of the Jura River, and the crew were killed. The aircraft had been carrying out a photo recce of the area.

Crew: RAAF 407004 Sqn Ldr Matthews, D K (Pilot) RAAF 1247 FO Sebastian, W H (Photo duties)

Both the crew are buried in the Canberra (Woden) Public Cemetery, ACT.

249 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

56139 Leading Aircraftsman McCANN, William Charles

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/26/203 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 6th August 1943, LAC McKay, a Flight Mechanic and LAC McCann, a Flight Rigger, were killed when a utility was returning to Deniliquin from a forced landing, overturned at Echuca, Victoria. Others in the utility were injured. Both LAC McKay and LAC McCann are buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

250 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

421998 Leading Aircraftsman McCARTHY, John Thomas

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/26/6 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-585 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranqinty

Summary: On the 8th January 1943, Wirraway A20-585 collided at 1010 hours, with Wirraway A20- 613 and LAC McCarthy was killed. A20-585 was taking off from the Belafrayden Satellite drome to carry out instrument flying take off practice, when it collided with A20-613 which was stationery. The accident was considered to be due to the failure of the Staff pilot of A20-585 to keep an adequate lookout, and/or failure to prevent the aircraft swinging during take off.

Crew: A20-585 RAAF 205784 Sgt M J Conway, (Staff Pilot) Slightly Injured RAAF 421998 LAC J T McCarthy, (Trainee dual Pilot) Killed

Crew: A20-613 RAAF 421948 LAC C W Wannan, (Trainee Pilot) Uninjured

LAC McCarthy is buried in the Wagga Wagga General Cemetery, NSW.

251 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

29431 Leading Aircraftsman McCASKILL, Donald John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/14/111 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-203 Radio call sign: Unit: 9 EFTS Cunderdin

Summary: On the 20th October 1943, Tiger Moths A17-203 and A17-150 collided in flight, and crashed at 1405 hours, one mile east of the main drome. Both crews were killed.

Crew: A17-203 RAAF 38597 LAC D J Fraser, (Trainee Solo Pilot)

Crew: A17-150 RAAF 415243 FO English, F G (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 29431 LAC D J McCaskill, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

All three are buried in the Perth War Cemetery and Annex, Western Australia.

252 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

414066 Leading Aircraftsman McCLYMONT, Archibald Murray

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/148/208 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-79 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 7th April 1942, Wirraway A20-79 crashed at 1330 hours at the Air to Ground Gunnery range, Uranquinty, NSW, and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft was authorised to carry out an instrument flying training exercise. A civilian witness stated that the aircraft dived several times on a gunnery target and it failed to come out of its last dive. It was considered that the crash resulted from a disobedience of orders.

Crew: RAAF 412025 LAC R A Oppy, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 414066 LAC A M McClymont, (Safety Trainee Pilot)

LAC Oppy is buried in the Wagga Wagga General Cemetery, NSW. LAC McClymont is buried in the Inverell Cemetery, NSW.

253 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

413010 Leading Aircraftsman McCREDIE, Bruce Sidney

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/141/615 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-552 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 3rd July 1942, Wirraway A20-552 crashed at 1240 hours, in Mangoplan Road, 42 miles south east of Uranquinty, NSW, and the crew were killed. The aircraft had been on an instrument flying exercise, and had apparently spun in out of control.

Crew: RAAF 413010 LAC B S McCredie, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 405945 LAC C Teys, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC McCredie was cremated in the Eastern Suburbs Crematorium, Sydney, and his name is recorded on the NSW Cremation Memorial. LAC Teys is buried in the Wagga Wagga General Cemetery, NSW.

254 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

409980 Leading Aircraftsman McDONALD, Donald Neil

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/24/183 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2095 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 23rd September 1943, Anson W2095 took off at 2130 hours, detailed to carry out a night dual cross-country flight. Four aircraft were engaged in the nights exercise. The weather report was favourable, and other pilots reported favourable weather en route. Each Pilot Instructor was told to return to base if the weather deteriorated. .

At 2220 hours the weather at the Mallala drome deteriorated, and the flying was cancelled, but in the absence of wireless equipment on the aircraft, they could not be contacted instructing them to return to base. Of the four aircraft in the exercise, two returned to base when the weather deteriorated, and two of them, including W2095 continued with the exercise. Eye witnesses later said that the weather was extremely bad, and they saw an aircraft circling in the cloud above and emerge from it in a fairly steep dive and crash. W2095 crashed on Mr Sandens property at Tarlee, South Australia, and all the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 29990 Sgt J P Rice, (Staff Pilot) RAAF 284999 FO Weston, I D (Navigator Instructor) RAAF 419836 LAC C M Lewis, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 429980 LAC D N McDonald, (Trainee Pilot)

All the crew are buried in the Mallala War Cemetery, South Australia.

255 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

406942 Flying Officer McDONALD, Irwin Hector

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9300 Barcode 5243736 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 EFTS RAAF Parafield

Summary: On the 25th June 1943, the appointment of FO McDonald, a Pilot, was terminated on medical grounds. He died on the 17th June 1946, and is buried in the Gnowangerup Public Cemetery, Western Australia. Gnowangerup is 90 miles by road north eats of Albany, WA.

256 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

408920 Leading Aircraftsman McFARLANE, Stanley Livingstone

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/120/372 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: A4-31 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 13th February 1942, Ansons A4-32 and A4-6 collided after take off a 6SFTS Mallala, and all on board were killed.

Crew: A4-31 RAAF 409005 LAC K A Mustow, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 408993 LAC K G Hayter, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: Anson A4-6 RAAF 408920 LAC S L McFarlane, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 408472 LAC C T C Shoppee, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Mustow is buried in the Booroondara General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Hayter is buried in the Brighton General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC McFarlane is buried in the Fawkner Memorial Park Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Shoppee was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, Victoria.

257 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

442296 Flight Sergeant McGEE, Maurice Patrick

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/26/867 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-39 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 4th April 1945, Wirraways A20-39 and A20-415 collided in mid-air and crashed at Sandy Creek, approx 7 miles north east of Uranquinty drome, with one being killed in the accident. The aircraft took off about 1pm from the Uranquinty drome, and had been engaged in a solo line astern chase when they collided at 1345 hours at a height of between 4/5000 feet. A20-39 dived steeply to the ground and caught fire on impact. A20- 415 also crashed and the Instructor Pilot baled out safely, but Flt Sgt McGee left his aircraft too late, and was killed.

Crew: A20-39 RAAF 442296 Flt Sgt M P McGee, (Refresher Pupil) Killed

Crew: A20-415 RAAF 438604 Sgt S B McDowell, (Instructor Pilot) Uninjured

Flt Sgt McGee is buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

258 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

Flight Lieutenant McINNES, Malcolm Musgrave

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/26/1242 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 18th December 1939, Flt Lt McInnes, a Pilot, was killed in an aircraft accident at Kensington, NSW. He was originally an Air Cadet in the Permanent Air Force, and at some stage was with the Seaplane Squadron at Rathmines. Flt Lt McInnes was cremated in the Rookwood Crematorium, Sydney, and his name is recorded on the NSW Cremation Memorial.

259 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

412258 Leading Aircraftsman McKAY, Robert Wallace

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/141/530 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-34 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 30th April 1942, Wirraway A20-34 during a training practice flight, crashed at 1145 hours, five miles south west of Deniliquin, and the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 412258 LAC R W McKay, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 409325 LAC L G Simmons (Trainee Pilot)

LAC McKay is buried in the South Head Cemetery, Sydney, NSW. LAC Simmons is buried in the Fawkner Memorial Park Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

260 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

120605 Leading Aircraftsman McKAY, William Ronald

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/26/203 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 6th August 1943, LAC McKay, a Flight Mechanic and LAC McCann, a Flight Rigger, were killed when a utility was returning to Deniliquin from a forced landing, overturned at Echuca, Victoria. Others in the utility were injured. Both LAC McKay and LAC McCann are buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

261 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

407904 Leading McKENZIE, John Albert

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/98/499 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AT644 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 8th May 1942, Oxford AT644 crashed at 1350 hours ten miles north east of Werribee, Victoria, and the crew of three were killed. The aircraft was on a low level bombing practice exercise, and collided with a tree diving into the ground.

Crew: RAAF 407904 LAC J A McKenzie, (Staff Pilot) RAAF 408277 LAC R J Cranston, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 408281 LAC E K Gilbert, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC McKenzie is buried in the Port Adelaide and Suburban Cemetery, South Australia. LAC’s Cranston and Gilbert are buried in the Hobart (Cornelian Bay) Public Cemetery, Tasmania.

262 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

407063 Sergeant McLAUGHLAN, Peter Blair

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/120/181 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-169 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 SFTS Amberley

Summary: On the 15th April 1941, Wirraway A20-169 crashed at 1600 hours, near Mutdapilly, about 10 miles south west of Amberley, and the crew were killed. The aircraft was carrying out air to ground gunnery practice, when it dived into the ground.

Crew: RAAF 407063 Sgt P B McLaughlan, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 406246 LAC R V Harvey, (Trainee Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Ipswich General Cemetery, Queensland.

263 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

433390 Leading Aircraftsman McMAHON, Edward Dale

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/26/247 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: R4886 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 EFTS Narrandera

Summary: On the 16th September 1943, Tiger Moth R4886 crashed at 1330 hours approx eight miles north east of Griffith, NSW, and the trainee pilot died of his injuries. The aircraft took off at 1230 hours, authorised to carry out a solo exercise within the training area, in which low flying was not authorised. When the aircraft crashed it was flow flying over property owned by his sister and brother in law, which was outside the training area.

Crew: RAAF 433390 LAC E D McMahon, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC McMahon is buried in the Griffith Cemetery, NSW.

264 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

428483 Leading Aircraftsman McMURRICH, John Vernon

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/6/68 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-172 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 EFTS Narrandera

Summary: On the 24th March 1943, Tiger Moth A17-192 took off at 1320 hours on a solo cross country exercise from Narrandera to Wagga to Junee and return to Narrandera. The aircraft crashed on the second leg of the journey, about one mile west of Old Junee, NSW, and the trainee Pilot was killed. It was considered that that the pilot lost control of the aircraft and it crashed and caught fire on impact.

Crew: RAAF 428483 LAC J V McMurrich, (Trainee Pilot Solo)

LAC McMurrich is buried in the Narrandera War Cemetery, NSW.

265 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

439490 Leading Aircraftsman McNAMARA, Lance Alexander

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/26/422 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-452 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 18th April 1944, Wirraway A20-452 crashed at 1130 hours, south of Forbes, NSW, and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft was on a triangular cross country navigation exercise at medium level.

Crew: RAAF 439490 LAC L A McNamara, (Trainee Pilot Navigator) RAAF 439507 LAC Williams, A F (Trainee Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Parkes General Cemetery, NSW.

266 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

405868 Flying Officer MIDDLETON, Maurice St George

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/27/275 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Avro Trainer Serial number: A6-4 Radio call sign: Unit: Central Flying School Tamworth

Summary: On the 14th November 1943, Avro Trainer A6-4 during a training flight, crashed five miles south of Tamworth, and the crew of two were killed.

Crew: RAAF 411509 FO Mutton, H Captain (Pilot) RAAF 405868 FO Middleton, M St G (2nd Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Tamworth War Cemetery.NSW.

267 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

440045 Flight Sergeant MILLER, Jack

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/1359 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: EC446 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 1st November 1945, Anson EC446 crashed during a non-operational instrument training flight; two miles north of the Moruya landing ground, and all on board were killed. Eye witnesses reported that one wing fell off the aircraft shortly after take off from Moruya.

Crew: RAAF 427848 FO Collins, W E (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413850 FO Fraser, A J (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 440045 Flt Sgt J Miller, (Instructor Pilot0 RAAF 71518 LAC A M Scott, (Fitter 11E) RAAF 134514 LAC D F Snow, (Fitter 11A) RAAF 49966 LAC Shade, T C (Flight Mechanic)

All on board are buried in the Moruya Cemetery, NSW.

268 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

33516 Pilot Officer MILNE, Francis Debenham

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/45/208 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Douglas Serial number: C47-41-18601 Radio call sign: Unit: Attd 6 Troop Carrier Squadron 1 Administrative Wing USAAF

Summary: On the 26th November 1942, PO Milne was Co Pilot in Douglas 41-18601 which left Dobadura for Port Moresby at approx 1000L hours. Shortly after take off. The aircraft was attacked by two Zeros and shot down south of Popandetta. The aircraft burst into flames at a low altitude before crashing, and all on board were killed.

Crew: USAAF Lt E B Lattier, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 33516 PO Milne, F D (Co-Pilot) USAAF Sgt J E Paul, (Engineer) Mr A Believe, (Radio Operator)

PO Milne is buried in the Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia, USA.

269 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

436204 Leading Aircraftsman MILSTEAD, Edward John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/277 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2072 Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 1st November 1943, Anson W2072 crashed at 11so hours 3 miles north of Greenough Township, Western Australia, and the crew were killed. The aircraft was on a non-operational dual instructional flight, and the crash was apparently caused by the pilot losing control of the aircraft when in a clod, and the starboard main plane disintegrated in a steep; dive.

Crew: RAAF 417287 Sgt R J Wilson, (Staff Pilot) RAAF 415122 Flt Sgt S W Cross, (Wireless Air Gunner) RAAF 437091 LAC W R Morley, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 436204 LAC E J Milstead, (Trainee Pilot)

All the crew are buried in the Geraldton War Cemetery, Western Australia.

270 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

412174 Flight Lieutenant MONTGOMERY-MORTIMER, John Walter

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/28/296 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-428 Radio call sign: Unit: 11 EFTS Benalla

Summary: On the 14th May 1944, Tiger Moth A17-428 crashed at 1445 hours, while carrying out instrument tests, five miles north of the Benalla drome, and the pilot was killed. The aircraft spun to the right, and failed to recover.

Crew: RAAF 412174 Flt Lt Montgomery-Mortimer, J W (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 428616 LAC R A F Braham, (Trainee Pilot) Seriously Injured

Flt Lt Montgomery-Mortimer is buried in the Benalla War Cemetery, Victoria.

271 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

437091 Leading Aircraftsman MORLEY, William Robert

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/277 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2072 Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 1st November 1943, Anson W2072 crashed at 11so hours 3 miles north of Greenough Township, Western Australia, and the crew were killed. The aircraft was on a non-operational dual instructional flight, and the crash was apparently caused by the pilot losing control of the aircraft when in a clod, and the starboard main plane disintegrated in a steep; dive.

Crew: RAAF 417287 Sgt R J Wilson, (Staff Pilot) RAAF 415122 Flt Sgt S W Cross, (Wireless Air Gunner) RAAF 437091 LAC W R Morley, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 436204 LAC E J Milstead, (Trainee Pilot)

All the crew are buried in the Geraldton War Cemetery, Western Australia.

272 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

12205 Corporal MORRIS, Godfrey Eustace

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/145/251 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: CFS Camden

Summary: On the 11th July 1942, Cpl Morris, a Fitter 11A, was missing in flood waters when on duty at Tamworth. Part of the drome at Tamworth and adjacent paddocks were covered with flood water from the Peel River which had overflowed its banks due to heavy rains. Cpl Morris had been endeavouring to release some horses on one of the flooded paddocks, and was swept away by the flood waters and drowned. His body was later recovered. He is buried in the Tamworth General Cemetery, NSW.

273 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

37530 Aircraftsman Class 1 MORRISON, Oliver Hugh

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/145/147 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 18th October 1941, AC1 Morrison, a Fitter General, was operated on for goitre at the 113 AGH Concord, and assessed as dangerously ill. He died at 1330 hours on the 19th October 1941, as a result of a post operative Thyroid crisis, and is buried in the Rookwood Necropolis, Sydney, NSW.

274 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

20106 Corporal MORROW, William Kendall

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/145/202 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTSWagga

Summary: At 1545 hours on the 14th March 1942, Cpl Morrow, a Guard, died of pulmonary embolism. He is buried in the South Grafton Cemetery, NSW.

275 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

400006 Leading Aircraftsman MULLER, Rodney Elmore

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 53/1/744 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 3rd October 1940, LAC Muller, a Trainee Pilot, was killed in an aircraft crash at Werribee, Victoria. He is buried in the St Kilda General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

276 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

409005 Leading Aircraftsman MUSTOW, Keith Allan

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/120/372 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: A4-31 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 13th February 1942, Ansons A4-32 and A4-6 collided after take off a 6SFTS Mallala, and all on board were killed.

Crew: A4-31 RAAF 409005 LAC K A Mustow, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 408993 LAC K G Hayter, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: Anson A4-6 RAAF 408920 LAC S L McFarlane, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 408472 LAC C T C Shoppee, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Mustow is buried in the Booroondara General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Hayter is buried in the Brighton General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC McFarlane is buried in the Fawkner Memorial Park Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Shoppee was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, Victoria.

277 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

411509Flying Officer MUTTON, Hessel

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/27/275 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Avro Trainer Serial number: A6-4 Radio call sign: Unit: Central Flying School Tamworth

Summary: On the 14th November 1943, Avro Trainer A6-4 during a training flight, crashed five miles south of Tamworth, and the crew of two were killed.

Crew: RAAF 411509 FO Mutton, H Captain (Pilot) RAAF 405868 FO Middleton, M St G (2nd Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Tamworth War Cemetery.NSW.

278 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

411254 Sergeant MYERS, Joseph Gray

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/87/204 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2370 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 3rd June 1942, Anson W2370 crashed into Lake Albert near Meningie, Victoria when carrying out a forced landing at night. The four on board the aircraft lost their lives.

Crew: RAAF 403968 Sgt G Y Wadlow, (Pilot) RAAF 401888 Sgt F E Anderson, (Observer) RAAF 411254 Sgt J G Myers, (Wireless Air Gunner) RAAF 412898 LAC W S Butler, PAX

Sgt Wadlow is buried in the Adelaide (Centennial Park) Cemetery, South Australia.. Sgt Anderson is buried in the Benalla Cemetery, Victoria. Sgt Myers is buried in the Adelaide (West Terrace) Cemetery, South Australia. Sgt Butler is buried in the Young Cemetery, NSW.

279 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

407322 Flying Officer NEWALL, Leslie Vyvyen

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/93/478 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AS694 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 7th April 1942, Oxford AS694 crashed at 1515 hours one miles south west of Point Cook, Victoria. The aircraft collided with another aircraft while carrying out formation flying practice. AS694 was struck by the aircraft following it in formation, and it dived into the ground. All the crew were killed in the accident.

Crew: RAAF 407311 FO Newall, L V (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 409286 LAC R W Bradford, (Pupil Pilot) RAAF 26473 LAC M D Boland, (Pupil Pilot)

FO Newall was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the Victoria Cremation Memorial. LAC Bradford is buried in the Springvale Necropolis, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Boland is buried in the Mitcham Cemetery, Adelaide, South Australia.

280 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

421819 Leading Aircraftsman NEWBIGGING, Robert John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/147/348 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-393 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 1st December 1942, LAC Newbigging, a trainee Pilot was about to take his 2nd solo night flying practice flight at the Forest Hill drome, in Wirraway A20-393. The aircraft after take off, reached a height of 50/100 feet above the flare path, when it did a slight turn to the right, which the pilot corrected momentarily, and immediately the aircraft went into a turn to the left, which developed into a diving turn and it struck the ground near the drome boundary, and the pilot was killed.

Crew: RAAF 421819 LAC R J Newbigging, (Trainee solo Pilot)

LAC Newbigging is buried in the Wagga Wagga General Cemetery, NSW.

281 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

413018 Sergeant NICHOLS, Mervyn John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/95/331 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: R3542 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 4th August 1942, Anson R3542 and Anson W2165 collided at 0950 hours, over Monteith, South Australia, when in full flight during formation flying.R3542 crashed into the Murray river in water 90 feet deep, and W2165 crashed on the river bank. All on board both aircraft lost their lives in the accident.

Crew: R3542 RAAF 2366 FO Wotzko, L V (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413187 Sgt G Cooper, (Observer) RAAF 416929 LAC L Cadd, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 416956 LAC N D Haines, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: W2165 RAAF 406625 Sgt H G Phillips, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413018 Sgt M J Nichols, (Observer) RAAF 409484 LAC C McC Say, (Pupil Pilot) RAAF 420056 LAC J B Richardson, (Pupil Pilot)

Crew: R3542 FO Wotzko and LAC Haines have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is located in the Sydney War Cemetery which is about 17kms west of Sydney. Sgt Cooper and LAC Cadd are buried in the Murray Bridge Cemetery, South Australia.

Crew: W2165 Sgt Phillips was cremated at the South Aust Government Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the South Aust Cremation Memorial. Sgt Nichols is buried in the South Maitland (Kurri Kurri) Cemetery, NSW. LAC Richardson and LAC Say are buried in the Mallala War Cemetery, South Australia.

282 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

432857 Leading Aircraftsman NILON, Arthur James

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/14/113 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-607 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 30th October 1943, Wirraway A20-607 during non-operational instruction flight, crashed at 0841 hours at the Belfrayden Satellite drome near Uranquinty, NSW. Both the crew were killed. The aircraft was coming in to land and about 30 feet off the ground, when it flicked on its back and dived into the ground, bursting into flames on impact it was considered that the probable cause of the accident was a power stall.

Crew: RAAF 409534 Flt Sgt L D Fuller, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 432857 LAC A J Nilon, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Wagga Wagga War cemetery, NSW.

283 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

407300 Flight Lieutenant NITSCHKE, Clemence Friedrich

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/7/148 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: R3550 Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 21st July 1943, Anson R3550 crashed on a non-operational ferry flight on the southern boundary of the Georgina satellite drome. The aircraft struck a tree during take off and lost portion of the tail unit.

Crew: RAAF 407300 Flt Lt Nitschke, C F (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 29693 LAC I I Chester, (Trainee Pilot) Killed RAAF 427845 LAC L H Clarke, (Trainee Pilot) Killed RAAF 411751 FO Crawford, D M PAX Died of Injuries RAAF LAC J P Bird, (Trainee pilot) Slightly injured

The four that lost their lives are buried in the Geraldton War Cemetery, Western Australia.

284 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

414073 Sergeant NIXON, Noel Louis

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/124/199 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2262 Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 9th October 1942, Anson W2262 was authorised to carry out a D/F exercise and ZZ approaches at Pearce, Western Australia. At approx 1242 hours the aircraft crashed near Clackline, WA, and all on board were killed. PO Sedunary, a crew member, was not in the aircraft at the time of the crash. The aircraft took off from Pearce and flew a course of 111 degrees true for approx 20 minutes on receipt of that baring from the No 1 D/F station at Pearce. After receiving permission to make a ZZ approach, the aircraft commenced a left hand turn. While in this turn, the aircraft went into a steep dive with its engines racing. As the dive continued, the aircraft banked steeply to port, momentarily flattened out, and eventually side slipped into the ground.

Crew: RAAF 415294 G L Debenham, (Pilot) (No 4 SFTS Geraldton) RAAF 401823 L V H Birt, (Observer) ( “ “ ) RAAF 414073 N L Nixon, (Observer) ( “ “ ) RAAF 415255 Sgt K C Hugo, (Wireless Air Gunner) (of 68 Sqn)

All the crew are buried in the Perth War Cemetery and Annex, Western Australia.

285 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

Air Cadet NORBURY, Ralph Vardon

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A6769 (2002/05135599) Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 6th December 1939, Air Cadet Norbury was killed in an aircraft accident at Point Cook, Victoria. He is buried in the Williamstown General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

286 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

401460 Leading Aircraftsman NORTHWAY, William Thomas

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/147/92 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-272 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 20th June 1941, Wirraway A20-272 crashed at 1630 hours at Moroco West; 232 miles south east of Deniliquin, NSW, and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft was on a cross country training flight.

Crew: RAAF 850 FO Woods, M G (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 401460 LAC W T Northway, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Northway is buried in the White Hills Cemetery, Bendigo, Victoria. Commonwealth War Graves does not record where FO Woods is buried.

287 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

429783 Leading Aircraftsman O’DOWD, Vincent Brendan

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/16/122 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: N9258 Radio call sign: Unit: 11 EFTS Benalla

Summary: On the 7th July 1943, Tiger Moth N9258 crashed at 0500 hours, half a mile east from the Benalla drome, and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft was carrying out a night dual instructional flying exercise, and was half way along the downwind leg of a circuit of the drome, when it dived vertically into the ground.

Crew: RAAF 410543 Sgt F Graham, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 429783 LAC V B O’Dowd, (Trainee Dual pilot)

Both are buried in the Benalla War Cemetery, Victoria.

288 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

405877 Leading Aircraftsman O’GORMAN, Shane Anthony Vernon

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/148/197 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-248 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 26th February 1942, Wirraway A20-248 crashed at the Springs Bombing range, 15 miles south west of the Wagga drome, and the trainee solo pilot was killed. The aircraft was on an air to ground gunnery exercise, and it failed to pull out of a dive.

Crew: RAAF 405877 LAC S A V O’Gorman, (Trainee solo Pilot)

LAC O’Gorman is buried in the Wagga Wagga General Cemetery, NSW.

289 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

88061 Leading Aircraftsman O’NEILL, Alfred Daniel

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/31/68 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 5th June 1943, LAC O’Neill, a Messman, reported at 1130 hours at the SSQ Deniliquin, and he died later that day of Septicaemic Meningitis. He is buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

290 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

412025 Leading Aircraftsman OPPY, Robert Alexander

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/148/208 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-79 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 7th April 1942, Wirraway A20-79 crashed at 1330 hours at the Air to Ground Gunnery range, Uranquinty, NSW, and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft was authorised to carry out an instrument flying training exercise. A civilian witness stated that the aircraft dived several times on a gunnery target and it failed to come out of its last dive. It was considered that the crash resulted from a disobedience of orders.

Crew: RAAF 412025 LAC R A Oppy, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 414066 LAC A M McClymont, (Safety Trainee Pilot)

LAC Oppy is buried in the Wagga Wagga General Cemetery, NSW. LAC McClymont is buried in the Inverell Cemetery, NSW.

291 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

449012 Leading Aircraftsman O’RORKE, Hugh

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/31/376 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-7 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 12th June 1945, LAC O’Rorke, a Trainee Solo Pilot, was detailed to carry out a night non-operational patrol between Forest Hill and The Rock NSW, and briefed to fly at 3,000 feet. The aircraft crashed six miles west of The Rock and LAC O’Rorke was killed. It was considered that the cause of the accident was loss of control of the aircraft during night flying.

Crew: RAAF 449012 LAC O’Rorke, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC O’Rorke is buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

292 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

410010 Leading Aircraftsman ORRELL, George Stanley

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/148/236 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: A5702 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 19th June 1942, Oxford A5702 crashed at 1530 hours when it hit high tension wires 3 miles south west of Rockbank Wireless Station, Victoria, and the Pupil Pilot was killed.

Crew: RAAF 410010 LAC G S Orrell, (Pupil Pilot)

LAC Orrell is buried in the Springvale Necropolis, Melbourne, Victoria.

293 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

406406 Flight Lieutenant O’SULLIVAN, George Joseph

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/27/426 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-55 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 11th may 1944, Wirraway A20-55 during a non-operational training flight, crashed at 1001 hours 1.5 miles south west of the Yarragundry Satellite drome, NSW, and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft appeared to spin out of cloud with a base of 1500 feet, while carrying out a dual general flying check.

Crew: RAAF 406406 Flt Lt O’Sullivan, G J (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 438000 LAC W E Marks, (Trainee Pilot)

Both are buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

294 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

430329 Leading Aircraftsman O’SULLIVAN, Kenneth John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301 Barcode 5546493 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 2nd January, 1944, LAC O’Sullivan, a trainee Pilot, was injured when on duty, as a result of a revolver being discharged accidentally by LAC Walsh a guard. He died on the 3rd January 1944, and is buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

295 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

433129 Leading Aircraftsman PAGE, Frederick St John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/32/237 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-478 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 23rd November 1943, Wirraway A20-478 crashed at 0030 hours, three miles north of the Uranquinty drome, and the solo Trainee Pilot was killed. The accident occurred during a solo night flying practice.

Crew: RAAF 433129 LAC F St J Page, (Trainee solo Pilot)

LAC Page is buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

296 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

406059 Leading Aircraftsman PARRY, Harold Leslie

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/101/57 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 11th January 1941, LAC’s Dean, Parry and Wright, all Pilot trainees, left Point Cook in a sailing dinghy, and failed to return. The Altona police later reported that a sailing dinghy badly damaged had been found washed up on the Altona Beach, Victoria, on Port Phillip Bay. This was the missing dinghy, and it was presumed that the three had drowned.

LAC Dean was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Parry is buried in the Footscray Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Wright has no known grave. His name is commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which stands in the Sydney War Cemetery, which is situated 17kms west of Sydney, NSW.

297 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

49999 Leading Aircraftsman NEEDS, Frank

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301, Barcode 4977659 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: RAAF Advanced Flying Training Refresher Unit

Summary: On the 12th February 1946 LAC Needs, a cook, was discharged from the RAAF on demobilisation. He died on the 2nd April 1946. Commonwealth War graves do not record where he is buried.

298 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

37142 Leading Aircraftsman PATTERSON, Gordon

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/27/145 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-21 Radio call sign: Unit: Central Flying School Tamworth

Summary: On the 8th August 1942, Flt Lt Dawson expressed the intention of testing certain altitudes to which the Wirraway aircraft could climb, and as he had only recently been posted to the Wirraway Flight, he was taking every opportunity to become proficient with this type and check data.

At 1350 hours the aircraft took off, and the take off appeared normal. Observers stated that the control column was in position for dual in the rear seat. The aircraft was seen by the Flt Commander of the Wirraway flight at about 1425 hours at a height of 3000 feet to be in a steep spiral dive at very high speed and to crash behind a hill. Both the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 415 Flt Lt Dawson, C A (Pilot) RAAF 37142 LAC G Patterson, (Trainee Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Tamworth General Cemetery, NSW

299 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

431208 Leading Aircraftsman PAYNE, Graham Stanley

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/32/31 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-318 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 21st June 1944, Wirraway A20-318 during a solo training flight, crashed at 0610 hours at Boonook Station, 20 miles north east of Deniliquin, and the Trainee Pilot was killed.

Crew: RAAF 431208 LAC G S Payne, (Trainee Solo Pilot)

LAC Payne is buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

300 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

416454 Flying Officer PEARCE, Maxwell John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/51/180 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-419 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 EFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 10th December 1942, Tiger Moth A17-419 crashed at approx 1140 hours nine miles WNW from the main drome at Parafield, South Australia, and the Instructor Pilot died of his injuries. The accident occurred when the aircraft had been on a blind take off from a satellite landing ground.

Crew: RAAF 416454 FO Pearce, M J (Instructor Pilot) Died of injuries RAAF 418733 LAC V C Austin, (Trainee Dual Pilot) Slightly injured

FO Pearce is buried in the Salisbury (St Johns) Church Cemetery, South Australia. Salisbury is 24kms north of Adelaide.

301 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

438265 Sergeant PECK, Maxwell

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/12/216 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-554 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 10th September 1945, Wirraway A20-554 on an instrument training flight, crashed during take off at the Uranquinty drome, as a result of engine failure, and the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 409791 Flt Lt Everett, N B (Instructor pilot) RAAF 438265 Sgt M Peck, (Pupil Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

302 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

20338 Leading Aircraftsman PEDLER, Rex Angus Arthur

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301 Barcode 4582915 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS RAAF Uranquinty

Summary: On the 15th September 1942, LAC Pedler, a WT Operator, was discharged from the RAAF being medically unfit for further service suffering from tuberculosis. He died on the 24th January 1943, and was cremated in the Rookwood Crematorium, Sydney. His name is recorded on the NSW Cremation Memorial.

303 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

433621 Leading Aircraftsman PENFOLD, Page Herbert

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/32/290 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-461 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 30th January 1944, Wirraway A20-461 crashed at 0850 hours at Marrar, NSW, and the Trainee Solo Pilot was killed. The pilot had been detailed to carry out a medium height solo cross country flight, but he proceeded direct 27 miles off course to the town of Marrow. Whilst indulging in low flying, the aircraft hit a tree approx 100 yards from the home of his cousin, and crashed.

Crew: RAAF 433621 LAC P H Penfold, (Trainee Solo Pilot)

LAC Penfold is buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

304 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

407908 Sergeant PENN, Theodore William

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/92/129 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AT 439 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 12rh April 1942, Oxford AT439 when on a cross country flight, crashed at 1105 hours, three miles north east of Beech Forest, Victoria. The crew of three were killed.

Crew: RAAF 407908 Sgt T W Penn, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 409376 LAC J R Black, (Pupil Pilot) RAAF 408284 LAC R E Johnston, (Pupil Pilot)

Sgt Penn is buried in the Adelaide (Centennial Park) Cemetery, South Australia. LAC Black is buried in the Williamstown General Cemetery, Victoria. LAC Johnston was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium and his name is recorded on the Victorian Cremation Memorial.

305 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

406662 Flying Officer PETTIT, John Frederick

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/18/129 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2556 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 14th July 1943, Anson W2556 took off at 1430 hours, detailed to carry out a test flight after a 240 hourly inspection. The aircraft failed to return from the flight, and fragments of the missing aircraft were found washed ashore near Parham on the eastern side of St Vincent’s Gulf, South Australia, but no sign of the missing crew. It was presumed that they had lost their lives at sea.

Crew: RAAF 406662 FO Pettit, J F (Pilot) RAAF 27786 Cpl J D Horrigan, (Fitter 11E) RAAF 59315 LAC D B Tucker, (Electrician) RAAF 116182 AC1 D Whenan, (Instrument Repairer) RAAF 45971 AC1 J V C Matheson, (Fitter 11A)

All the crew have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is located in the Sydney War Cemetery, situated about 17kms west of Sydney.

306 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

860 Squadron Leader PHILLIPPS, Roy Cecil, MC DFC

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/51/67 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Civil Aircraft Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 2 EFTS Archerfield

Summary: On the 21st May 1941, a civil aircraft, flown by Flt Lt Collins, (a ground Instructor), crashed at 8.30pm at night, after take off from the Archerfield drome, and the two on board were killed.

Crew: RAAF * 5611 Flt Lt Collins, J W F (Civilian Pilot) RAAF 860 Sqn Ldr Phillipps, R C MC DFC (A & SD) PAX * a member of Station Headquarters Archerfield

Flt Lt Collins is buried in the Mundoolun Private Cemetery located on the Mundoolun Cattle Station, 16kms west of Beaudesert, and about 48kms south of Brisbane.

Sqn Ldr Collins was cremated at the Mt Thompson Crematorium, Brisbane, and his name is recorded on the Queensland Cremation Memorial located in the Brisbane, (Lutwyche) Cemetery, Brisbane, Queensland.

Citation: The Citation for the DFC awarded to the then Captain Phillipps, MC, of No 2 Sqn Aust Flying Corps is as follows: “While on an offensive patrol, this officer destroyed personally four enemy aeroplanes: He has also shown the greatest gallantry during recent operations in attacking enemy troops and transports on the roads, and dropping bombs from a very low altitude.” (CAG 191-12/12/1918)

307 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

406625 Sergeant PHILLIPS, Hugh Godfrey

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/95/331 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: R3542 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 4th August 1942, Anson R3542 and Anson W2165 collided at 0950 hours, over Monteith, South Australia, when in full flight during formation flying.R3542 crashed into the Murray river in water 90 feet deep, and W2165 crashed on the river bank. All on board both aircraft lost their lives in the accident.

Crew: R3542 RAAF 2366 FO Wotzko, L V (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413187 Sgt G Cooper, (Observer) RAAF 416929 LAC L Cadd, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 416956 LAC N D Haines, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: W2165 RAAF 406625 Sgt H G Phillips, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413018 Sgt M J Nichols, (Observer) RAAF 409484 LAC C McC Say, (Pupil Pilot) RAAF 420056 LAC J B Richardson, (Pupil Pilot)

Crew: R3542 FO Wotzko and LAC Haines have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is located in the Sydney War Cemetery which is about 17kms west of Sydney. Sgt Cooper and LAC Cadd are buried in the Murray Bridge Cemetery, South Australia.

Crew: W2165 Sgt Phillips was cremated at the South Aust Government Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the South Aust Cremation Memorial. Sgt Nichols is buried in the South Maitland (Kurri Kurri) Cemetery, NSW. LAC Richardson and LAC Say are buried in the Mallala War Cemetery, South Australia.

308 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

422979 Leading Aircraftsman PHILLIPS, Philip McLean

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/55 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: DH 82 Serial number: A17-174 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 EFTS Narrandera

Summary: On the 9th March 1943, DH 82’s A17-174 and A17-257 collided in full flight at 600 feet, during a forced landing practice, and all on board were killed. Eye witnesses stated: “One of the planes was on the last crosswind leg of a forced; landing approach, when it collided into the side of the second aircraft, which was on it’s into wind leg preparatory to landing.” It was considered that the airscrew of the first plane struck the oil tank of the second plane on the left hand side, and both aircraft crashed in a spin.

Crew: A17-174 RAAF 407571 FO Connellan, V T (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 422979 LAC P McL Phillips, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

Crew: A17-257 RAAF 401616 FO Croft, C E (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 423539 LAC G M Harding, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

All the four are buried in the Narrandera War Cemetery, NSW

309 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

402879 Leading Aircraftsman PHIPPS, Henry James

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/150/71 163/158/138 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-172 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 20th June 1941, Wirraway A20-172 crashed at 1015 hours, in Murraguldrie Pine Forest, approx 30 miles south east of Wagga, NSW, towards Turramburry Weir, and the crew of two were killed. The accident occurred on a flying practice flight, when due to a sudden deterioration in the weather conditions with low cloud and fog, the aircraft in attempting a forced landing, dived through cloud and burst into flames on impact.

Crew: RAAF 402879 LAC H J Phipps, (Pupil Pilot) RAAF 403076 LAC N H Rogers (Pupil Pilot)

LAC Phipps was cremated in the Sydney (northern Suburbs) Crematorium and his name is recorded on the NSW Crematorium Memorial, Sydney. LAC Rogers is buried in the Woronora General Cemetery, Sutherland, NSW.

310 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

413419 Leading Aircraftsman PICKUP, Laurence Francis

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/95/289 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2435 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: The Light House keeper at Cape Willoughby Light House, Kangaroo Island, South Aust, reported that at about 1815 hours on the 3rd June 1943, an aircraft flying low from the south east circled the Light House three or four times flashing a Morse lamp, and that it headed out to sea in a south east direction about 1835 hours. The aircraft alighted in the sea about 1907 hours, and in response to a Morse lamp signal requesting what was required, replied –“Boat” The Light House keeper had no boat. The aircraft was about half a mile south east of the Lighthouse, and was drifting to the south, and it was lost sight of about one mile south of the Tower. Extensive air and naval searches were conducted for the missing aircraft and crew but no trace was found. On the 7th June 1942, the search was abandoned.

Crew: RAAF 6732 Sgt F R Cassidy, (Pilot) RAAF 405840 Sgt K W Hailey, (Observer) RAAF 405506 Sgt D R Stewart, (Wireless Air Gunner) RAAF LAC L F Pickup, (Trainee Pilot) PAX

The missing crew have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial which stands in the Sydney War Cemetery. The Cemetery is 17kms west of Sydney.

311 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

405960 Sergeant PLISCH, Cyril Frans

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/6/70 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-433 Radio call sign: Unit: 10 EFTS Temora

Summary: On the 10th March 1943, Tiger Moth A17-433 crashed at 1015 hours, approx seven miles south east of the Temora drome, in a paddock the property of Mr Vogele “Malkeith” Temora. Both the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 405960 Sgt C F Plisch, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 423164 LAC F L Brooker, (Trainee Pilot)

Both are buried in the Temora General Cemetery, NSW.

312 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

444034 Leading Aircraftsman PONTEY, Edward Francis

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/33/263 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: DJ236 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 8th December 1944, Anson DJ236 crashed at 1530 hours, near Woodgate, approx 16 miles south east of Bundaberg, Queensland, and the crew were killed. The accident occurred during a non-operational air to air camera gunnery exercise, when structural failure of the port main plane, resulted in the aircraft diving vertically to the ground from 3,000 feet.

Crew: RAAF 444034 LAC E F Pontey, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 444041 LAC R N Rose, (Trainee Pilot) PAX

Both the crew are buried in the Bundaberg General Cemetery, Queensland.

313 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

115396 Leading Aircraftsman POTTER, Wilfred Glen

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/33/100 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 17th November 1943, LAC Potter, a Flight Rigger, died of the toxic effects of decicaine. He is buried in the Adelaide (Centennial Park) Cemetery, Springbank, South Australia.

314 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

12127 Sergeant PRETTY, Edward George

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/33/6 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Narromine

Summary: On the 24th January 1943, Sgt Pretty, a Fitter 11E, was killed when a motor car overturned on the road at 2am at night. The accident occurred on the road two miles west of Trangie, NSW. Three other passengers in the car were injured. Sgt Pretty is buried in the Narromine War Cemetery, NSW.

315 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

678 Flying Officer PROWD, Stanley Norman

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/113/101 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-77 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 3rd August 1941, Wirraway A20-77 was carrying out an aeroplane test, when it crashed at 1430 hours, at Mangoplah, NSW, and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft went into spin deliberately at 4,000 feet, and did not come out of the spin.

Crew: RAAF 678 FO Prowd, S N (Pilot) RAAF 32035 AC1 G McK Frazer, (Fitter 11A)

FO Prowd is buried in the St Kilda General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. AC1 Frazer is buried in the Woronora General Cemetery, Sutherland, Sydney, NSW.

316 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

432972 Leading Aircraftsman PURKISS, Vincent Martin

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/14/96 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AS 615 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 13th September 1943, Oxfords AS615 and SN271 collided in full flight at 1155 hours, and crashed at Salt Lake, half a mile north east of the Point Cook drome. Both crews were killed in the accident.

Crew: AS615 RAAF 19923 LAC J H Friday, (Trainee Solo Pilot)

Crew: SN271 RAAF 430167 LAC N J Harper, (Trainee Solo Pilot) RAAF 432972 LAC V M Purkiss, (Trainee Solo Pilot) PAX

All three are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

317 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

404832 Leading Aircraftsman PYM, Herbert Edgar

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/105/50 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: N9902 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 SFTS Amberley

Summary: On the 17th June 1941. Anson N9902 crashed at 1345 hours, near Dinmore, approx five miles east of Ipswich, and the crew were killed. The aircraft was engaged in an instrument flying exercise at 4,000 feet when the accident occurred.

Crew: RAAF 407002 Sgt J Edwards, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 404832 LAC H E Pym, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 404894 LAC B W Reynolds, (Trainee Pilot)

Sgt Edwards is buried in the Adelaide (Centennial Park) Cemetery, South Australia. LAC Pym is buried in the Brisbane General Cemetery, Queensland. LAC Reynolds is buried in the Clermont Cemetery, Queensland.

318 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

40960 Pilot Officer QUIRK, Albert Victor

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/35/367 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-96 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 27th September 1944, Wirraway A20-96 crashed at 1045 hours; two miles north of the Narrandera road, 11 miles from Wagga, and the crew were killed. The aircraft crashed during a non-operational instrument flying training flight.

Crew: RAAF 432264 PO Raftery, B A (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 49060 LAC A V Quirk, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

Both are buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

319 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

432264 Pilot Officer RAFTERY, Brian Augustus

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/35/367 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-96 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 27th September 1944, Wirraway A20-96 crashed at 1045 hours; two miles north of the Narrandera road, 11 miles from Wagga, and the crew were killed. The aircraft crashed during a non-operational instrument flying training flight.

Crew: RAAF 432264 PO Raftery, B A (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 49060 LAC A V Quirk, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

Both are buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

320 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

412268 Leading Aircraftsman RAVELL, Maxwell David

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/163/313 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-237 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 20th February 1942, Wirraway A20-237 crashed at 0820 hours at Pools Creek near Ladysmith, NSW, and both the crew were killed. The aircraft had been engaged in formation flying practice, and when on the leaders signal they broke formation, A20-237 crashed with full engine when returning to the drome.

Crew: RAAF 412734 LAC A W Sparks, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 412268 LAC M D Ravell, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Sparks is buried in the South Head General Cemetery, Sydney, NSW LAC Ravell was cremated in the Rookwood Crematorium and his name is recorded on the NSW Cremation Memorial.

321 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

426913 Leading Aircraftsman RAYNER, Leslie William

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/4//13 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-440 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 1st March 1943, Wirraway A20-440 and Wirraway A20-131 collided in the air during a formation break up, and two were killed in the accident.

A20-444 had been leading the formation. After the collision, A20-444 went into a dive. LAC Utting, the trainee in the aircraft, spoke to his instructor but got no reply. He recovered the machine to a normal attitude, and as the aircraft was vibrating badly he decided to make a forced landing. This he achieved successfully landing with the wheels retracted. On landing, he found WO Averill in the aircraft with fatal head injuries.

The crew of A20-131 baled out after the collision when the aircraft could not be recovered from a spin. FO Oberg landed safely, but LAC Reiner’s chute opened late and he was killed.

Crew: A20-440 RAAF 402429 WO K Averill, I(Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 426785 LAC W T Utting, (Trainee under Instruction) Safe

Crew: A20-131 RAAF FO Oberg, R (Instructor Pilot) Safe RAAF 426913 LAC L W Rayner, (Trainee under Instruction) Killed

Both WO Averill and LAC Rayner are buried in the Wagga Wagga General Cemetery, NSW.

322 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

419833 Flying Officer REED, John Verney

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/1053 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-245 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 15th June 1945, Wirraway A20-245 during a non-operational general flying instruction flight, disintegrated in the air as a result of a suspected structural failure. The two on board were killed.

Crew: RAAF 419833 FO Reed, J V (Instructional Pilot) RAAF 442489 PO R J Cook, (Refresher Course Pilot)

Both crew members are buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

323 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

415485 Leading Aircraftsman REGAN, Walter James

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/100/206 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: AW902 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 1st June 1942, Anson AW902 crashed at sea at 1142 hours, at Bargara, Queensland, near Bundaberg, and all the crew were killed. The wreck of the aircraft was located about 1.5 miles off shore in 32 feet of water. Pieces of wreckage were found, but no trace of the missing crew was found.

Crew: RAAF 400394 Flt Sgt R C Davies, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 415485 LAC W J Regan, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 420765 LAC C J Lucas, (Trainee Pilot)

The three missing crew have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is located in the Sydney War Cemetery, which is situated about 17kms west of Sydney.

324 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

413325 Leading Aircraftsman RENFREW, Jack

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/156/125 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 12 EFTS Lowood

Summary: On the 19th March 1942, LAC Renfrew, a Trainee Pilot, was admitted to No 113 AGH Concord, of acute nephritis, and died later that day. He was cremated in the Newcastle Crematorium, Beresfield, NSW. His name is recorded on the NSW Cremation Memorial.

325 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

404894 Leading Aircraftsman REYNOLDS, Barnard William

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/105/50 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: N9902 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 SFTS Amberley

Summary: On the 17th June 1941. Anson N9902 crashed at 1345 hours, near Dinmore, approx five miles east of Ipswich, and the crew were killed. The aircraft was engaged in an instrument flying exercise at 4,000 feet when the accident occurred.

Crew: RAAF 407002 Sgt J Edwards, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 404832 LAC H E Pym, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 404894 LAC B W Reynolds, (Trainee Pilot)

Sgt Edwards is buried in the Adelaide (Centennial Park) Cemetery, South Australia. LAC Pym is buried in the Brisbane General Cemetery, Queensland. LAC Reynolds is buried in the Clermont Cemetery, Queensland.

326 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

29990 Sergeant RICE, Julian Patrick

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/24/183 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2095 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 23rd September 1943, Anson W2095 took off at 2130 hours, detailed to carry out a night dual cross-country flight. Four aircraft were engaged in the nights exercise. The weather report was favourable, and other pilots reported favourable weather en route. Each Pilot Instructor was told to return to base if the weather deteriorated. .

At 2220 hours the weather at the Mallala drome deteriorated, and the flying was cancelled, but in the absence of wireless equipment on the aircraft, they could not be contacted instructing them to return to base. Of the four aircraft in the exercise, two returned to base when the weather deteriorated, and two of them, including W2095 continued with the exercise. Eye witnesses later said that the weather was extremely bad, and they saw an aircraft circling in the cloud above and emerge from it in a fairly steep dive and crash. W2095 crashed on Mr Sandens property at Tarlee, South Australia, and all the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 29990 Sgt J P Rice, (Staff Pilot) RAAF 284999 FO Weston, I D (Navigator Instructor) RAAF 419836 LAC C M Lewis, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 429980 LAC D N McDonald, (Trainee Pilot) ` All the crew are buried in the Mallala War Cemetery, South Australia.

327 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

420056 Leading Aircraftsman RICHARDSON, James Brignall

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/95/331 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: R3542 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 4th August 1942, Anson R3542 and Anson W2165 collided at 0950 hours, over Monteith, South Australia, when in full flight during formation flying.R3542 crashed into the Murray river in water 90 feet deep, and W2165 crashed on the river bank. All on board both aircraft lost their lives in the accident.

Crew: R3542 RAAF 2366 FO Wotzko, L V (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413187 Sgt G Cooper, (Observer) RAAF 416929 LAC L Cadd, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 416956 LAC N D Haines, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: W2165 RAAF 406625 Sgt H G Phillips, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413018 Sgt M J Nichols, (Observer) RAAF 409484 LAC C McC Say, (Pupil Pilot) RAAF 420056 LAC J B Richardson, (Pupil Pilot)

Crew: R3542 FO Wotzko and LAC Haines have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is located in the Sydney War Cemetery which is about 17kms west of Sydney. Sgt Cooper and LAC Cadd are buried in the Murray Bridge Cemetery, South Australia.

Crew: W2165 Sgt Phillips was cremated at the South Aust Government Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the South Aust Cremation Memorial. Sgt Nichols is buried in the South Maitland (Kurri Kurri) Cemetery, NSW. LAC Richardson and LAC Say are buried in the Mallala War Cemetery, South Australia.

328 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

121027 Leading Aircraftsman ROBERTS, Vincent Clifford Hastings

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/36/115 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: At approx 0720 hours, on the 15th September 1943, LAC Roberts, an Electrician, was at the eastern end of the southern tarmac at RAAF Station Point Cook, and whilst in the vicinity of Oxford aircraft R6186, was struck by the port airscrew and received a fractured skull. He died of his injuries on the 16th September 1943 in No 6 RAAF Hospital Heidelberg. He is buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

329 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

420583 Leading Aircraftsman ROBERTSON, David Maxwell Lefroy

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/158/282 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 10 EFTS Temora

Summary: On the 15th May 1942, LAC Robertson, a Pupil Pilot, was admitted to the Temora District Hospital, dangerously ill suffering from meningitis. He died on the 19th May 1942, and is buried in the Northern Suburbs General Cemetery, NSW.

330 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

411952 Leading Aircraftsman RODDA, Stephen Hunter

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/158/194 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AR917 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 27th October 1941, Oxford AR917 stalled at 150 feet and spun into the ground immediately after take off at Point Cook drome, and the trainee pilot was killed. At 1745 hours, the aircraft took off tail down and climbed steeply to 150 feet where it stalled.

Crew: RAAF 411952 LAC S H Rodda, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Rodda is buried in the Canberra (Woden) Public Cemetery, ACT.

331 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

403076 Leading Aircraftsman Rogers, Norman Hollis

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/150/71 163/158/138 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-172 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 20th June 1941, Wirraway A20-172 crashed at 1015 hours, in Murraguldrie Pine Forest, approx 30 miles south east of Wagga, NSW, towards Turramburry Weir, and the crew of two were killed. The accident occurred on a flying practice flight, when due to a sudden deterioration in the weather conditions with low cloud and fog, the aircraft in attempting a forced landing, dived through cloud and burst into flames on impact.

Crew: RAAF 402879 LAC H J Phipps, (Pupil Pilot) RAAF 403076 LAC N H Rogers (Pupil Pilot)

LAC Phipps was cremated in the Sydney (northern Suburbs) Crematorium and his name is recorded on the NSW Crematorium Memorial, Sydney. LAC Rogers is buried in the Woronora General Cemetery, Sutherland, NSW.

332 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

439522 Leading Aircraftsman ROLFE, Maxwell Leonard

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/36/746 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 31st January 1946, LAC Rolfe, a trainee technician, was admitted to No 3 RAAF Hospital seriously ill with Subacute Nephritis and Pneumonia. He was assessed dangerously ill on 22nd June 1946 and died of his illness on the 21st September 1946. He is buried in the Sydney War Cemetery, NSW, which is located in the grounds of the Rookwood Necropolis,

333 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

444041 Leading Aircraftsman ROSE, Ronald Norman

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/33/263 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: DJ236 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 8th December 1944, Anson DJ236 crashed at 1530 hours, near Woodgate, approx 16 miles south east of Bundaberg, Queensland, and the crew were killed. The accident occurred during a non-operational air to air camera gunnery exercise, when structural failure of the port main plane, resulted in the aircraft diving vertically to the ground from 3,000 feet.

Crew: RAAF 444034 LAC E F Pontey, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 444041 LAC R N Rose, (Trainee Pilot) PAX

Both the crew are buried in the Bundaberg General Cemetery, Queensland.

334 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

29877 Leading Aircraftsman ROSENBERG, Lewis Conway

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/158/253 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 EFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 17th March 1942, LAC Rosenberg, a Fitter 11E, died of his injuries when he was struck by an airscrew when on duty at Parafield, South Australia. He is buried in the Adelaide (West Terrace) Cemetery, South Australia.

335 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

433256 Leading Aircraftsman ROSS, Russell Neil

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/36/150 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-364 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 29th November 1943, Wirraway A20-364 crashed at 0808 hours, 18 miles north east of Moulamein, NSW, and the trainee pilot was killed. The aircraft took off at 0745 hours, detailed to carry out solo navigation exercise No 6 on a route Deniliquin to Balranald to Dubbo and return to Deniliquin.

The wreck of the aircraft was discovered at 1645 hours on the same day, and the pilot’s body was found two miles away from the aircraft, and his chute was found unopened and intact, approx 250 yards from his body.

Crew: RAAF 433256 LAC R N Ross, (Pupil Pilot)

LAC Ross is buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

336 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

433227 Leading Aircraftsmand ROSSER, Kevin Mac Allister

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/5/248 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: T 5412 Radio call sign: Unit: 10 EFTS Temora

Summary: On the 14th August 1943, Tiger Moth T5412 crashed at 1600 hours, during a non- operational instructional flight. The aircraft crashed 12 miles North West of the Temora main drome, and the crew of two were killed.

Crew: RAAF 426520 Sgt M A Bishop, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 433227 LAC K Mac A Rosser, (Trainee Pilot)

Both Sgt Bishop and LAC Rosser are buried in the Temora General Cemetery, NSW.

337 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

413261 Leading Aircraftsman RUSSELL, George Lindon

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/140/110 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: AX656 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 5th October 1942, Anson AX656 took off from Bundaberg for a 1hr 40mts instrument flying exercise. The aircraft failed to return from the exercise. When the aircraft was overdue 20 aircraft searched the area with nil result. On the 11th October 1042, wreckage from the aircraft was washed ashore at Wreck Rock. Also on the 17th October, a back pad of a parachute harness was found on the beach at Moore Park. It was considered possible that parachutes were worn by the crew, as the one found was one of three chutes missing from Z Flight at 8SFTS. It was considered that the aircraft had crashed into the sea, and all the crew had been killed.

Crew: RAAF 273754 PO Turner, G W (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 414247 LAC K Lynch, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 413261 LAC G L Russell, (Trainee Pilot)

The three crew have no known grave, and their names have been commemorated on the Sydney Memorial., NSW. The Memorial is located in the Sydney War Cemetery, which is 17kms west of Sydney.

338 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

421468 Leading Aircraftsman RYAN, Gerald Francis

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/159/95 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-125 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Narrandera

Summary: On the 8th September 1942, Tiger Moth A17-125 took odd from Grong Grong Satellite drome shortly after 1555k hours, together with two other aircraft, to return to the main drome at Narrandera, NSW. After crossing the upwind boundary of the satellite drome, A17-125 turned left away from the other aircraft and was lost to view by them.

At 1600k hours A17-125 dived towards motor transport C8505 which was then leaving the satellite drome, and after levelling off, the aircraft struck the tender practically head on. The engine cowling struck the cabin top of the tender and glanced upwards, and the airframe structure lifted the tender canopy and deposited it about 20 yards behind the tender. The aircraft apparently struck the ground in an inverted position, and came to rest on its starboard side, the starboard main plane having been broken off.

LAC Ryan a Pupil Pilot, and passenger in the tender, were killed instantly, and the two crew members in the aircraft were seriously injured. Eight other members in the tender were seriously injured, and 14 others were uninjured. The aircraft was being piloted by LAC Pickworth at the time of the accident.

Crew: RAAF 405406 Sgt K N Gregor, (Instructor Pilot) Seriously Injured RAAF 421122 LAC C R Pickworth, (Pupil Pilot) Seriously Injured

LAC Ryan is buried in the Castle Hill Cemetery, NSW.

339 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

416616 LeadingAircraftsman SAMPSON, Kingsley Holman

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/160/154 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: AF841 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 21st January 1942, Oxford AF841 crashed into Port Phillip Bay, at 0110 hours, 400 yards south east of Point Cook drome, and the pilot was killed. The aircraft had been carrying out night circuits and landings, when it dived into the sea.

Crew: RAAF 416616 LAC K H Sampson, (Pupil Pilot)

LAC Sampson is buried in the Mitcham Cemetery, Adelaide, South Australia. Mitcham is 8kms south of Adelaide.

340 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

401856 Sergeant SAWREY, John Hueston

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/140/113 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: DG819 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 2nd November 1942, Anson DG819 crashed at Mallacoota, Victoria, when the aircraft overran the runway, crashed into a quarry and 3 x 100 lb anti sub bombs exploded. All the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 401856 Sgt J H Sawrey, (Pilot) (of No 6 SFTS Mallala) RAAF 411481 Sgt R B Cassidy, (Observer) (of 6 SFTS Mallala) RAAF 405485 Sgt L A Lupton, (Wireless Air Gunner) (of 67 Sqn)

Sgt Sawrey is buried in the Booroondara General Cemetery, Victoria. Both Sgt Lupton and Sgt Cassidy are buried in the Bairnsdale War Cemetery, Victoria.

341 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

409484 Leading Aircraftsman SAY, Colin McCall

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/95/331 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: R3542 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 4th August 1942, Anson R3542 and Anson W2165 collided at 0950 hours, over Monteith, South Australia, when in full flight during formation flying.R3542 crashed into the Murray river in water 90 feet deep, and W2165 crashed on the river bank. All on board both aircraft lost their lives in the accident.

Crew: R3542 RAAF 2366 FO Wotzko, L V (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413187 Sgt G Cooper, (Observer) RAAF 416929 LAC L Cadd, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 416956 LAC N D Haines, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: W2165 RAAF 406625 Sgt H G Phillips, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413018 Sgt M J Nichols, (Observer) RAAF 409484 LAC C McC Say, (Pupil Pilot) RAAF 420056 LAC J B Richardson, (Pupil Pilot)

Crew: R3542 FO Wotzko and LAC Haines have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is located in the Sydney War Cemetery which is about 17kms west of Sydney. Sgt Cooper and LAC Cadd are buried in the Murray Bridge Cemetery, South Australia.

Crew: W2165 Sgt Phillips was cremated at the South Aust Government Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the South Aust Cremation Memorial. Sgt Nichols is buried in the South Maitland (Kurri Kurri) Cemetery, NSW. LAC Richardson and LAC Say are buried in the Mallala War Cemetery, South Australia.

342 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

38163 Leading Aircraftsman SCANLAN, Robert Joseph

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/37/390 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 23rd April 1944, LAC Scanlan, a Fitter 11E, attended sick parade and was admitted to SSQ. He was transferred to No 7 RAAF Hospital, Adelaide, on the 25th April, and died on the 30th April 1944 of a blood disorder, caused by a general breakdown of the circulatory system. Following an investigation, it appeared that fatal illnesses were caused by poisonous benzol fumes which are given off certain liquids used in the performance of their duties in the RAAF, by men in the late LAC Scanlan’s mustering of Fitter 11E.

LAC Scanlan is buried in the Adelaide (Centennial Park) Cemetery, South Australia.

343 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

2350 Flying Officer SCASCIGHINI, James Edgar

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/101/97 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: T5486 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 EFTS Western Junction

Summary: On the 4th February 1942, Tiger Moths T5486 and T5463 collided in full flight and crashed at approx 1000 hours, one mile west of Cressy, Tasmania. Three were killed.. The crew in T5486 were carrying out Instructors practice flying. LAC Hurley in T5463 was receiving dual instruction.

Crew: T5486 RAAF 408038 Sgt G R Dean, (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 408097 Sgt J H Rust, (Instructor Pilot) Baled out slightly injured

Crew: T5463 RAAF 2350 FO Scascighini, J (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 412965 LAC F L Hurley, (Trainee Pilot) Killed

Sgt Dean was cremated in the Carr Villa Crematorium, Launceston, Tasmania. FO Scascighini is buried in the Burwood Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Hurley is buried in the Carr Villa Cemetery, Launceston Tasmania. The Cemetery is about four miles from the Launceston GPO.

344 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

123798 Leading Aircraftsman SCELLS, Evan Vincent

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/37/241 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 13th November 1943, LAC Scells, a Cook, together with two other RAAF members were surfing at Bargara near Bunaberg, when they noticed some people in difficulty with the undertow.. After assisting these people, it was noticed that Scells was some 30 yards out further than the rest, and was in difficulties himself. Several people went to his aid and when they reached him, he appeared to collapse. He was taken to the beach and artificial respiration was applied for half an hour, without result. LAC Scells died through asphyxiation by drowning, having been carried out too far.

LAC Scells is buried in the Bundaberg General Cemetery, Queensland.

345 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

71418 Leading Aircraftsman SCOTT, Allan Murray

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/1359 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: EC446 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 1st November 1945, Anson EC446 crashed during a non-operational instrument training flight; two miles north of the Moruya landing ground, and all on board were killed. Eye witnesses reported that one wing fell off the aircraft shortly after take off from Moruya.

Crew: RAAF 427848 FO Collins, W E (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413850 FO Fraser, A J (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 440045 Flt Sgt J Miller, (Instructor Pilot0 RAAF 71518 LAC A M Scott, (Fitter 11E) RAAF 134514 LAC D F Snow, (Fitter 11A) RAAF 49966 LAC Shade, T C (Flight Mechanic)

All on board are buried in the Moruya Cemetery, NSW.

346 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

406229 Leading Aircraftsman SCOTT, Douglas Porter

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301, Barcode 5531888 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 3 SFTS Amberley

Summary: On the 12th February 1941, LAC Scott, a trainee Pilot, was killed in an aircraft accident. He was cremated in the Mt Thompson Crematorium, Brisbane, and his name is recorded on the Queensland Cremation Memorial.

347 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

1247 Flying Officer SEBASTIAN, William Harold

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/44/109 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-116 Radio call sign: Unit: School of Army Co-operation Canberra

Summary: On the 16th September 1943, Wirraway A20-116 crashed at 1550 hours, eleven miles south east of Araluen, NSW, in the vicinity of the Jura River, and the crew were killed. The aircraft had been carrying out a photo recce of the area.

Crew: RAAF 407004 Sqn Ldr Matthews, D K (Pilot) RAAF 1247 FO Sebastian, W H (Photo duties)

Both the crew are buried in the Canberra (Woden) Public Cemetery, ACT.

348 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

49966 Leading Aircraftsman SHADE, Thomas Cecil

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/1359 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: EC446 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 1st November 1945, Anson EC446 crashed during a non-operational instrument training flight; two miles north of the Moruya landing ground, and all on board were killed. Eye witnesses reported that one wing fell off the aircraft shortly after take off from Moruya.

Crew: RAAF 427848 FO Collins, W E (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413850 FO Fraser, A J (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 440045 Flt Sgt J Miller, (Instructor Pilot0 RAAF 71518 LAC A M Scott, (Fitter 11E) RAAF 134514 LAC D F Snow, (Fitter 11A) RAAF 49966 LAC Shade, T C (Flight Mechanic)

All on board are buried in the Moruya Cemetery, NSW.

349 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

416370 Leading Aircraftsman SHEARER, Douglas Albert

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/98/405 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-394 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 24th December 1941, Wirraway A20-394 crashed at 1130 hours six miles south of Geelong, Victoria, and the both the crew were killed. The aircraft was engaged in general flying practice, when it became out of control, dived into the ground and caught fire.

Crew: RAAF 416325 LAC D B Cowell, (Pupil Pilot) RAAF 416370 LAC D A Shearer, (Pupil Pilot)

LAC Cowell is buried in the Footscray Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Shearer is buried in the Adelaide (Centennial Park) Cemetery, South Australia. .

350 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

408472 Leading Aircraftsman SHOPPEE, Charles Tilley Collett

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/120/372 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: A4-31 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 13th February 1942, Ansons A4-32 and A4-6 collided after take off a 6SFTS Mallala, and all on board were killed.

Crew: A4-31 RAAF 409005 LAC K A Mustow, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 408993 LAC K G Hayter, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: Anson A4-6 RAAF 408920 LAC S L McFarlane, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 408472 LAC C T C Shoppee, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Mustow is buried in the Booroondara General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Hayter is buried in the Brighton General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC McFarlane is buried in the Fawkner Memorial Park Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Shoppee was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, Victoria.

351 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

409325 Leading Aircraftsman SIMMONS, Lloyd George

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/141/530 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-34 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 30th April 1942, Wirraway A20-34 during a training practice flight, crashed at 1145 hours, five miles south west of Deniliquin, and the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 412258 LAC R W McKay, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 409325 LAC L G Simmons (Trainee Pilot)

LAC McKay is buried in the South Head Cemetery, Sydney, NSW. LAC Simmons is buried in the Fawkner Memorial Park Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

352 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

432979 Leading Aircraftsman SLAPP, Herbert Nelson

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/6/296 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-216 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 8th October 1943, Wirraway A20-216 crashed at 0430 hours during a non- operational night circuits and landings practice, and both the crew were killed. The aircraft struck the ground at high speed in a vertical direction, five miles south west of the Uranquinty drome.

Crew: RAAF 408103 FO Burrows, D T (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 432979 LAC H N Slapp, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

353 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

404995 Leading Aircraftsman SLATYER, Allan

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/162/190 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-251 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 29th August 1941, Wirraway A20-251 crashed at 1540 hours, at Harefield near Wagga NSW, and both the crew were killed. The aircraft was engaged in an instrument flying exercise. LAC Slatyer was in the pilot’s cockpit covered by a hood. He could raise this hood or lower it at will, and he was carrying out specific practices by use of his blind flying instruments.

LAC Wilkinson the occupant in the rear cockpit was a safety pilot or lookout for other aircraft. The rear cockpit was fitted with dual controls, which could be used by the safety pilot in an emergency. The aircraft was at a height of 3,500 feet, when it went into a left hand turn, which developed into a spin showing that the aircraft had stalled. It commenced to spin for four turns, then recovered, but immediately began to spin the other way in a reverse direction, and hit the ground while recovering from the spin.

Crew: RAAF 404995 LAC A Slatyer, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 405336 LAC G C H Wilkinson, (Trainee pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Wagga Wagga General Cemetery, NSW.

354 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

419346 Leading Aircraftsman SLAWESKI, Kevin Francis

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, A20-166 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-166 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 30th January 1943, Wirraway A20-166 on a circuit and landings exercise, failed to make a clear take off run and struck the top of trees when about 20 feet in the air. The crew of two were dangerously injured in the accident.

Crew: RAAF 408032 FO Knight, L G R (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 419346 LAC K F Slaweski, (Trainee Dual Pilot)

FO Knight died of his injuries on the 2ns February 1943. LAC Slaweski died of his injuries on the 5the February 1943. They are both buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

355 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

412274 Leading Aircraftsman SMAIL, John Cochrane

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/34/145 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-392 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 19th November 1941, Wirraway A20-392 crashed at 1110 hours at Pt Cook drome, and the crew weer killed. During dual circuit and landings, the aircraft struck a steam roller stack on take off, and immediately dived into a tree on the western side of the northern drome.

Crew: RAAF 407118 FO Green, H T (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 412274 LAC J C Smail, (Dual Trainee Pilot)

FO Green is buried in the Adelaide (Centennial Park) Cemetery, South Australia. LAC Smail was cremated at the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, and his name is recorded on the Victoria Cremation Memorial.

356 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

603 Flying Officer SMALES, Herbert Frederick

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/87/108 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Narromine

Summary: On the 8th August 1940, FO Smales and AC1 Alderson were killed in an aircraft accident at Narromine NSW.

Crew: RAAF 603 FO Smales, H F (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 6517 AC1 A E Alderson, (Trainee Pilot)

FO Smales was cremated in the Rookwood Crematorium, Sydney. The Crematorium is within the Rookwood Necropolis, 11 miles west of Sydney. NSW. AC1 Alderson is buried in the Narromine War Cemetery, NSW.

357 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

15525 Aircraftsman Class 1 SMITH, Albert John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301 Barcode 4561494 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS RAAF Wagga

Summary: On the 28th January 1941, LAC Smith, a Messman, was discharged from the RAAF being medically unfit for further service. He died on the 26th August 1946, and is buried in the Rookwood Necropolis, Sydney, NSW.

358 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

34110 Pilot Officer SMITH, Arthur Lloyd Bernard

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/169/117 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-182 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 EFTS Narrandera

Summary: On the 4th January 1941, Tiger Moth A17-182 stalled in a climbing turn when low flying and crashed at Grong Grong, NSW. PO Smith was killed in the crash.

Crew: RAAF 291266 PO Everett, D T ((Pilot) RAAF 34110 PO Smith, A L B (Pilot)

PO Smith is buried in the South Head General Cemetery, Sydney, NSW.

359 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

407450 Warrant Officer SMITH, Frank Kenneth

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/7/161 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-584 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 8th August 1943, Tiger Moths A20-584 and A20-215 collided during formation flying instructional flight, and three were killed. The aircraft crashed two miles west of the Rock. A20-215 was seen to spin in and Sgt White an Instructor pilot parachuted to safety.

Crew: A20-584 RAAF 407450 WO F K Smith, (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 422931 LAC J C Chantler, (Trainee Dual Pilot Killed

Crew: A20-215 RAAF Sgt L E White, (Instructor Pilot) Safe RAAF 428633 LAC R T Cooper (Trainee Dual Pilot) Killed

The three killed are buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

360 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

434033 Leading Aircraftsman SMITH, Kenneth Hall

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/21/50 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W1945 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 26th July 1943, Anson W1945 crashed at 1145 hours, eight miles SSE of Elliotts Heads, Queensland, and the crew were killed. The aircraft collided with Anson W1588 during a non-operational formation flying exercise at a height of 4,000 feet. Three aircraft participated in the exercise, each crewed by two trainee pilots, and all were required to change seats at the end of the first hour. The starboard wing of W1945 struck the fuselage of W1588 just below and to the rear of the gun turret. W1945 was leading the formation and W1588 was in the No 2 position. It was considered that the accident was due to disobedience of orders and/or lack of vigilance.

Crew: W1945 RAAF 434033 LAC K H Smith, (Trainee Pilot) Killed RAAF 425858 LAC C N Jones, (Trainee Pilot) Killed

Crew: W1588 RAAF 425925 LAC A G Field, (Trainee Pilot) Uninjured RAAF 432010 LAC M L Perex, (Trainee Pilot) Uninjured

LAC Smith and LAC Jones have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is situated in the Sydney War Cemetery, about 17kms west of Sydney, NSW.

361 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

134514 Leading Aircraftsman SNOW, Darrell Francis

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/1359 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: EC446 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 1st November 1945, Anson EC446 crashed during a non-operational instrument training flight; two miles north of the Moruya landing ground, and all on board were killed. Eye witnesses reported that one wing fell off the aircraft shortly after take off from Moruya.

Crew: RAAF 427848 FO Collins, W E (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413850 FO Fraser, A J (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 440045 Flt Sgt J Miller, (Instructor Pilot0 RAAF 71518 LAC A M Scott, (Fitter 11E) RAAF 134514 LAC D F Snow, (Fitter 11A) RAAF 49966 LAC Shade, T C (Flight Mechanic)

All on board are buried in the Moruya Cemetery, NSW.

362 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

402680 Pilot Officer SOMERVILLE, Charles Edwards

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/92/87 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W 2254 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 14th October 1941, while flying with a pupil on the usual circuits in Anson W2257, the aircraft had reached a position to make a glide in to land, when it collided with another aircraft making a similar circuit. Both machines crashed at 8.30am and both crews were killed.

Crew: W2254 RAAF 407163 Sgt I B Blacker, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 408654 LAC B Hutchins, (Pupil Pilot)

Crew: W2257 RAAF 402680 PO Somerville, C E (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 416356 LAC J G Maslen, (Pupil Pilot)

Sgt Blacker is buried in the Tumby Bay General Cemetery, South Australia. LAC Huchins is buried in the Burwood General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. PO Somerville was cremated in the South Aust Government Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the South Australian Cremation Memorial. LAC Maslen is buried in the Port Adelaide & Suburban Cemetery, South Australia.

363 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

408213 Sergeant SOWTER, Noel Wilson

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/142/330 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-265 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 4th April 1942, A20-265 crashed in the mountains south of Benalla during a non- operational cross country flight, and the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 416593 LAC J W Masters, (Pilot) RAAF 408213 Sgt N W Sowter, (Observer)

LAC Masters is buried in the North Brighton General Cemetery, Adelaide, South Australia. Sgt Sowter is buried in the Benalla Cemetery, Victoria.

364 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

412734 Leading Aircraftsman SPARKS, Albert William

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/163/313 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-237 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 20th February 1942, Wirraway A20-237 crashed at 0820 hours at Pools Creek near Ladysmith, NSW, and both the crew were killed. The aircraft had been engaged in formation flying practice, and when on the leaders signal they broke formation, A20-237 crashed with full engine when returning to the drome.

Crew: RAAF 412734 LAC A W Sparks, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 412268 LAC M D Ravell, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Sparks is buried in the South Head General Cemetery, Sydney, NSW LAC Ravell was cremated in the Rookwood Crematorium and his name is recorded on the NSW Cremation Memorial.

365 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

406190 Flight Lieutenant SPICER, Robert Cecil

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/38/45 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2129 Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 9th February 1943, LAC Betts a pupil pilot, took off at approx 1530 hours in Anson W1938 detailed to carry out a solo practice flight consisting of climbing turns, steep turns, single engine approaches, and precision landings. At approx 1630 hours Anson W2129 took off to test the aircraft speed indicator and give the pupil pilot some revisionary dual instruction.

At approx 1655 hours, LAC Betts was doing a single engine approach using his port engine, in which he apparently carried out the normal procedure and later claimed no other aircraft was visible. At a height of 200 feet, and approaching the northern end of the boundary of the Geraldton drome, he became aware of portion of an aircraft (W2129) right underneath the nose of his aircraft, and slightly to starboard, and at the same time heard a loud tearing noise. LAC Betts did not see the other aircraft again and landed straight ahead just inside the drome.

Eye witnesses said that W2129 was making a normal approach when it was overtaken from above and behind by W1938, causing a collision and damage to the tail unit of W2129. W2129 immediately climbed sharply for about 40 feet, stalled and executing a peculiar half rolling manoeuvre, struck the ground vertically, and both the occupants were killed.

Crew: W2129 RAAF 406190 Flt Lt Spicer, R C(Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 427368 LAC C C H Wright, (Pupil Pilot Killed

Crew: W1938 RAAF 427287 LAC L J Betts, (Pupil Pilot) Uninjured

Both Flt Lt Spicer and LAC Wright are buried in the Geraldton War Cemetery, Western Australia.

366 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

429410 Leading Aircraftsman, STARMER, Sydney Hogarth

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301, Barcode 5528309 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-569 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 19th August 1943, Wirraway A20-569 crashed at the Collingullie Bombing and Gunnery range, NSW, and the trainee pilot was killed in the crash. The aircraft was seen to be in a spin.

Crew: RAAF 429410 LAC S H Starmer, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Starmer is buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

367 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

37570 Leading Aircraftsman STEELE, Lloyd George

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301 Barcode 4591682, Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS RAAF Parkes

Summary: On the 6th January 1943, LAC Steele, a DMT, was discharged from the RAAF being medically unfit for further service. He died on the 22nd November1945, and is buried in the Goulburn General Cemetery, NSW.

368 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

416292 Sergeant STEVENS, Raymond Stanley

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/163/390 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 9th June 1942, Sgt Stevens, a Wireless Air Gunner, was admitted to the 112 AGH Greenslopes, assessed seriously ill with acute nethritis. He became dangerously ill on the 22nd June, and died at 1900 hours on the 24th June 1942. He is buried in the Pinaroo Cemetery, South Australia.

369 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

405506 Sergeant STEWART, David Roderick

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/95/289 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2435 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: The Light House keeper at Cape Willoughby Light House, Kangaroo Island, South Aust, reported that at about 1815 hours on the 3rd June 1943, an aircraft flying low from the south east circled the Light House three or four times flashing a Morse lamp, and that it headed out to sea in a south east direction about 1835 hours. The aircraft alighted in the sea about 1907 hours, and in response to a Morse lamp signal requesting what was required, replied –“Boat” The Light House keeper had no boat. The aircraft was about half a mile south east of the Lighthouse, and was drifting to the south, and it was lost sight of about one mile south of the Tower. Extensive air and naval searches were conducted for the missing aircraft and crew but no trace was found. On the 7th June 1942, the search was abandoned.

Crew: RAAF 6732 Sgt F R Cassidy, (Pilot) RAAF 405840 Sgt K W Hailey, (Observer) RAAF 405506 Sgt D R Stewart, (Wireless Air Gunner) RAAF LAC L F Pickup, (Trainee Pilot) PAX

The missing crew have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial which stands in the Sydney War Cemetery. The Cemetery is 17kms west of Sydney.

370 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

408711 Leading Aircraftsman STIRLING, James Malcolm Alexander

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301 Barcode 5535619 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 3 SFTS Amberley.

Summary: On the 15th February 1942, LAC Stirling, a Trainee Pilot, was killed in an aircraft accident at the Amberley drome. He allowed the wing of an aircraft on the side of an engine which had failed, to stall. It was considered that the cause of the accident was the failure to observe the correct procedure for draining petrol tanks. LAC Stirling is buried in the Canberra (Woden) Public Cemetery, ACT.

371 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

407341 Leading Aircraftsman STRATFORD, Robert Henry

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/163/215 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wapiti Serial number: A5-21 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 10th February 1941, Wapiti A5-21 and Wapiti A5-39 collided in mid air during an instrument training flight, and both aircraft crashed one mile east of Werribee, Victoria

Crew: A5-21 RAAF 2931 Sgt R J Barker, (Instructor Pilot) Slightly injured RAAF 407341 LAC R H Stratford, (Trainee Pilot) Killed

Crew: A5-39 RAAF Flt Lt A E Robertson, (Instructor Pilot) Slightly injured RAAF 400629 LAC R S Osment, (Trainee Pilot) `Uninjured

LAC Stratford is buried in the Burwood General Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

372 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

39106 Leading Aircraftsman SULZMAN, Gilbert Alfred

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301 Barcode 4433937 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 6 EFTS RAAF Mallala

Summary: On the 1st July 1942, LAC Sulzman, a Flight Mechanic, was discharged from the RAAF Medically unfit for further service, suffering from tuberculosis. He died on the 26th April 1945, and is buried in the Adelaide (Centennial Park) Cemetery, South Australia.

373 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

449704 Leading Aircraftsman SWIFT, Ronald

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/6/80 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-696 Radio call sign: Unit: 10 EFTS Temora

Summary: On the 3rd March 1945, Tiger Moth A17-696 took off at 0715 hours, on a non-operational training flight. It crashed at 0750 hours; two miles west of the Temora drome, and the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 431472 FO Bradshaw, D P (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 449704, LAC R Swift (Trainee Dual Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Temora General Cemetery, NSW.

374 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

409613 Warrant Officer TAMLYN, John David

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/25/288 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-208 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 26th March 1945, Wirraway A20-208 crashed at 0906 hours at the gunnery range at Belfraydon during a gunnery training flight, and the crew of two were killed. The accident was considered to be in disobedience of orders followed by poor technique, causing a stall from a steep climbing turn, which was commenced at twenty feet after completion of the gunnery detail.

Crew: RAAF 409613 WO J D Tamlyn, (Pilot Instructor) RAAF 409419 WO L M Loftus, (Refresher Pupil Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

375 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

19557 LeadingAircraftsman TAYLOR, Geoffrey Neville

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/165/83 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 7 EFTS Western Junction

Summary: On the 21st March 1942, LAC Taylor, a Flight Rigger, was killed in a motor car accident at Fingal Tasmania, at 2100 hours. He is buried in the Henty Cemetery, NSW.

376 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

53567 Leading Aircraftsman TAYLOR, Harold Reginald

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/39/213 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: T5411 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 EFTS Western Junction

Summary: On the 27th January 1944, Tiger Moths T5411 and A17-274 collided in full light during solo flying practices, and crashed at 0750 hours, two miles south west of Western Junction drome, Tasmania. Both the trainee pilots lost their lives.

Crew: T5411 RAAF 53567 LAC H R Taylor, (Trainee pilot) Killed

Crew: A17-274 RAAF 431775 LAC E J Holt, (Trainee Pilot) Died of Injuries

Both the trainee pilots are buried in the Carr Villa General Cemetery, Launceston, Tasmania.

377 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

407084 Leading Aircraftsman TAYLOR, Leslie Robert

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301 Barcode 5541145 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 6th September 1940, LAC Taylor, a trainee Pilot, was killed in an aircraft accident. He is buried in the North Road Anglican Cemetery, Nailsworth, Adelaide, South Australia.

378 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

419236 Flight Sergeant TEDGE, John Lewis

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/39/222 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-403 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Narromine

Summary: On the 3rd February 1944, Tiger MothA17-403 crashed at 0945 during a night low flying exercise, and the Instructor Pilot was killed. The aircraft flown by Flt Sgt Tedge was flying low at a height of 50 feet, in the low flying area on an authorised flight, when he attempted to make a steep climbing turn to the right, but the aircraft stalled in the turn and it dived into the ground.

Crew: RAAF 419236 Flt Sgt J L Tedge, (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 439752 LAC C B Webber, (Trainee Dual Pilot) Slightly injured

Flt Sgt Tedge is buried in the Narromine War Cemetery, NSW.

379 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

405945 Leading Aircaftsman TEYS, Cecil

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/141/615 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-552 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 3rd July 1942, Wirraway A20-552 crashed at 1240 hours, in Mangoplan Road, 42 miles south east of Uranquinty, NSW, and the crew were killed. The aircraft had been on an instrument flying exercise, and had apparently spun in out of control.

Crew: RAAF 413010 LAC B S McCredie, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 405945 LAC C Teys, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC McCredie was cremated in the Eastern Suburbs Crematorium, Sydney, and his name is recorded on the NSW Cremation Memorial. LAC Teys is buried in the Wagga Wagga General Cemetery, NSW.

380 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

210011 Corporal THOMAS, John Allen

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/166/76 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 12th April 1941, Cpl Thomas, a Clerk General, was struck by a motor car while walking on the right side (correct) of Main Terrace road, with his wife and child. A car swerved on to the incorrect side of the road and struck down the whole family. Cpl Thomas and his child were killed in the accident, and his wife was injured. Commonwealth War Graves does not record where Cpl Thomas is buried.

381 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

421946 Leading Aircraftsman THOMPSON, Harold Vivian

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/43/88 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-602 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 8th March 1943, Wirraways A20-602 and A20-68 collided in mid air while on unauthorised low flying and both trainee Pilots were killed. The aircraft crashed at Banandera, 15 miles west of Yanco at 1730 hours. The pilots had been authorised to carry out a solo cross-country flight individually, with A20-68 taking off at 1620 hours and A20-602 at 1625 hours. Eye witnesses said that the two aircraft weer flying in close proximity with each other, when the pilot of A20-602 executed a beam attack on A20-68 misjudged his close speed and caused the collision.

Crew: A20-602 RAAF 418587 LAC R C Walker, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: A20-68 RAAF 421946 LAC H V Thompson, (Trainee Pilot)

Both Pilots are buried in the Narrandera War Cemetery, NSW.

382 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

42606 Aircraftsman Class 1 THOMPSON, Hubert George

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/166/125 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: CFS Camden

Summary: On the 1st October 1941, AC1 Thompson, an aircraft hand, was admitted to RAAF Richmond Hospital dangerously ill from cerebo spinal meningitis. He was transferred to the Prince Henry hospital in Sydney on the 3rd October where he died later that day. AC1 Thompson is buried in the Kaniva and Lillimur Cemetery, Victoria. Kaniva is 258 miles North West of Melbourne.

383 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

430588 Leading Aircraftsman THORBURN , Murray Percival

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/39/152 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-144 Radio call sign: Unit: 11 EFTS Benalla

Summary: On the 20th October 1943, Tiger Moth A17-144 crashed ten miles west of Benalla drome at 0910 hours, and the trainee pilot was killed. The aircraft was on a solo day flying exercise, when it dived into the ground.

Crew: RAAF 430588 LAC M P Thorburn, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Thorburn is buried in the Benalla War Cemetery, Victoria.

384 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

40495 Aircraftsman Class 1 TIPPETT, Francis William

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/167/26 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 12th February 1942, AC1 Tippett, an Instrument Repairer, drowned as a result of rescue work in flooded area. He was assisting in the evacuation of people from their homes during floods in Bundaberg. AC1 Tippett is buried in the Bundaberg General Cemetery, Queensland.

385 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

59315 Leading Aircraftsman TUCKER, Donald Beresford

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/18/129 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2556 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 14th July 1943, Anson W2556 took off at 1430 hours, detailed to carry out a test flight after a 240 hourly inspection. The aircraft failed to return from the flight, and fragments of the missing aircraft were found washed ashore near Parham on the eastern side of St Vincent’s Gulf, South Australia, but no sign of the missing crew. It was presumed that they had lost their lives at sea.

Crew: RAAF 406662 FO Pettit, J F (Pilot) RAAF 27786 Cpl J D Horrigan, (Fitter 11E) RAAF 59315 LAC D B Tucker, (Electrician) RAAF 116182 AC1 D Whenan, (Instrument Repairer) RAAF 45971 AC1 J V C Matheson, (Fitter 11A)

All the crew have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is located in the Sydney War Cemetery, situated about 17kms west of Sydney.

386 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

273754 Flying Officer TURNER, George William

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/140/110 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: AX656 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 SFTS Bundaberg

Summary: On the 5th October 1942, Anson AX656 took off from Bundaberg for a 1hr 40mts instrument flying exercise. The aircraft failed to return from the exercise. When the aircraft was overdue 20 aircraft searched the area with nil result. On the 11th October 1042, wreckage from the aircraft was washed ashore at Wreck Rock. Also on the 17th October, a back pad of a parachute harness was found on the beach at Moore Park. It was considered possible that parachutes were worn by the crew, as the one found was one of three chutes missing from Z Flight at 8SFTS. It was considered that the aircraft had crashed into the sea, and all the crew had been killed.

Crew: RAAF 273754 PO Turner, G W (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 414247 LAC K Lynch, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 413261 LAC G L Russell, (Trainee Pilot)

The three crew have no known grave, and their names have been commemorated on the Sydney Memorial., NSW. The Memorial is located in the Sydney War Cemetery, which is 17kms west of Sydney.

387 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

402265 Leading Aircraftsman, TURNER, Leonard Watson

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705 53/1 /886 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-201 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 SFTS Amberley

Summary: On the 19th January 1941, Wirraway A30-201 crashed during a training flight near Murwillumbah NSW and the crew of two were killed.

Crew; RAAF 614 FO Hack, L B (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 402265 LAC L W Turner, (Pupil Pilot)

PO Hack is buried at the Ipswich General Cemetery, Queensland. LAC Turner was cremated at the Newcastle Crematorium, Beresfield and his name is recorded on the NSW Cremation Memorial, Sydney. NSW.

388 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

20160 Sergeant TURNER, Leston George

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301 Barcode 4582764 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 24th October 1944, Sgt Turner, a Fitter 11E, was discharged from the RAAF medically unfit for further duty. He died on the 23rd March 1945, and is buried in the Tamworth General Cemetery, NSW.

389 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

404067 Leading Aircraftsman TWEEDIE, Thomas

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301 Barcode 5539251 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 30th August 1940, LAC Tweedie, a trainee Pilot, died as a result of an aircraft accident. He is buried in the Brisbane General Cemetery, Queensland.

390 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

404316 Leading Aircraftsman VEITCH, Donald Anderson

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/175/36 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-163 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 SFTS Amberley

Summary: On the 18th January 1941, Wirraway A20-163 crashed eight miles south of Goodna, Queensland, and the trainee pilot was killed. The pilot had been engaged on a solo night test when the aircraft crashed.

Crew: RAAF 404316 LAC D Veitch, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Veitch is buried in the South Brisbane Cemetery, Queensland.

391 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

422769 Leading Aircraftsman VENN, Geoffrey Samuel

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/43/66 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: BM712 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 23rd January 1943, Oxford BM712 during a non-operational formation flight crashed at 1420 hours, west of the You Yangs near Werribee, Victoria, and the crew of three were killed. BM712 in turning left collided with the tail fin of Oxford X7115 and went into a spin the accident was believed to be an error of judgement by LAC Venn was piloting BM712 at the time.

Crew: BM712 RAAF 3402 FO Loft C J H (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 422769 LAC G S Venn, (Trainee Dual Pilot) Killed RAAF 418494 LAC J S Walker, (Trainee Dual Pilot) Killed

Crew: X7115 RAAF Flt Lt Campbell, (Instructor Pilot) Uninjured

The three who lost their lives are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

392 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

414106 Leading Aircraftsman VICKERS, Vivian

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/129/150 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-14 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 29th December 1941, Wirraway A20-14 crashed at 1100 hours at Wantabadgery near Junee, NSW, and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft collided with Tiger Moth A20-228, during the break up of an unauthorised formation, and in disobedience of orders and lack of vigilance on the part of the Instructors. Both Flt Sgt Weston and Flt Sgt Cumings, the pilot of an additional aircraft in the formation, were placed under close arrest. Both Weston and Oliver in A20-228 baled out and landed safely.

Crew: A20-14 RAAF 407062 PO Jones, W H (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 414106 LAC V Vickers, (Trainee Pilot) Killed

Crew: A20-228 RAAF 406087 Flt Sgt B Weston, (Instructor Pilot) Uninjured RAAF 414075 LAC J K Oliver, (Trainee pilot) Slightly injured

PO Jones is buried in the North Road Anglican Cemetery, Adelaide, South Australia. LAC Vickers is buried in the Mt Larcom Cemetery, Queensland. Mt Larcom is on the Bruce Highway, 84kms south of Rockhampton.

393 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

Pilot Officer VINCENT, Robert Trevor

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 53/1/576 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A9-62 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 FTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 29th November 1939, Tiger Moth A7-62 crashed near Point Cook, and the crew of two were killed.

Crew: RAAF PO Vincent, R T (Instructor Pilot) RAAF PO Whitford, J R (Trainee Pilot)

PO Vincent is buried in the Barrabool Hills Cemetery, Victoria. Highton is a small township about 4 miles from Geelong, and the cemetery is about half a mile west of Highton Post Office. PO Whitford was cremated in the Rookwood Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the NSW Cremation Memorial

394 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

403968 Sergeant WADLOW, Graeme Yeoman

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/87/204 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2370 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 3rd June 1942, Anson W2370 crashed into Lake Albert near Meningie, Victoria when carrying out a forced landing at night. The four on board the aircraft lost their lives.

Crew: RAAF 403968 Sgt G Y Wadlow, (Pilot) RAAF 401888 Sgt F E Anderson, (Observer) RAAF 411254 Sgt J G Myers, (Wireless Air Gunner) RAAF 412898 LAC W S Butler, PAX

Sgt Wadlow is buried in the Adelaide (Centennial Park) Cemetery, South Australia.. Sgt Anderson is buried in the Benalla Cemetery, Victoria. Sgt Myers is buried in the Adelaide (West Terrace) Cemetery, South Australia. Sgt Butler is buried in the Young Cemetery, NSW.

395 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

418494 Leading Aircraftsman WALKER, John Stanley

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/43/66 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: BM712 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 23rd January 1943, Oxford BM712 during a non-operational formation flight crashed at 1420 hours, west of the You Yangs near Werribee, Victoria, and the crew of three were killed. BM712 in turning left collided with the tail fin of Oxford X7115 and went into a spin the accident was believed to be an error of judgement by LAC Venn was piloting BM712 at the time.

Crew: BM712 RAAF 3402 FO Loft C J H (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 422769 LAC G S Venn, (Trainee Dual Pilot) Killed RAAF 418494 LAC J S Walker, (Trainee Dual Pilot) Killed

Crew: X7115 RAAF Flt Lt Campbell, (Instructor Pilot) Uninjured

The three who lost their lives are buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

396 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

418587 Leading Aircraftsman WALKER, Roy Cameron

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/43/88 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-602 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 8th March 1943, Wirraways A20-602 and A20-68 collided in mid air while on unauthorised low flying and both trainee Pilots were killed. The aircraft crashed at Banandera, 15 miles west of Yanco at 1730 hours. The pilots had been authorised to carry out a solo cross-country flight individually, with A20-68 taking off at 1620 hours and A20-602 at 1625 hours. Eye witnesses said that the two aircraft weer flying in close proximity with each other, when the pilot of A20-602 executed a beam attack on A20-68 misjudged his close speed and caused the collision.

Crew: A20-602 RAAF 418587 LAC R C Walker, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: A20-68 RAAF 421946 LAC H V Thompson, (Trainee Pilot)

Both Pilots are buried in the Narrandera War Cemetery, NSW.

397 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

19288 Leading Aircraftsman WALLACE, John Bernard

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/43/719 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: R6184 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 20th June 1944, Oxford R6184 crashed at approx 1115 hours, three miles from Little River Township, Victoria, and the trainee pilot was killed. The pilot took off from Point Cook at 1040 hours, on a one hour flight, detailed to carry out a general solo revision which consisted of precautionary landings and gliding, when the aircraft spun into the ground and crashed. At 1115 hours, the pilot of another aircraft noticed a yellow Oxford in a spin at 2,000 feet and saw the aircraft crash.

Crew: RAAF 19288 LAC J B Wallace, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Wallace is buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

398 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

409639 Leading Aircraftsman WALLACE, Roy Neil

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/176/320 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-610 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 31st July 1942, LAC Wallace, a pupil Pilot, in Wirraway A20-610 was authorised to carry out air to gunnery exercises at the Big Springs Gunnery range. During the exercises, signals were placed against him, owing to his recovery being too low. The Pupil then carried out a low run in front of the targets, and in doing so, the port main plane of the aircraft struck the ground, and the aircraft crashed at approx 1225 hours, and LAC Wallace was killed.

Crew: RAAF 409639 LAC R N Wallace, (Pupil Pilot)

LAC Wallace is buried in the Bendigo Civil Cemetery, Victoria.

399 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

33191 Aircraftsman Clas 1 WANT, Donald Clarence

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 53/1/874 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 8 EFTS Narrandera

Summary: On the 17th February 1942, AC1 Want body drowned in a river, and his body was recovered on the 19th February. He is buried in the Maclean Cemetery, NSW. Maclean is 477 miles north of Sydney.

400 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

409353 Leading Aircraftsman WARREN, Charles Raymond

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/176/261 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-331 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 21st April 1942, Wirraway A20-331 Crashed at 0140 hours, one mile south of the Deniliquin drome, and the trainee pilot was killed. The aircraft was on solo a night flying exercise and it dived into the ground after take off.

Crew: RAAF 409353 LAC C R Warren, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Warren is buried in the Deniliquin General Cemetery, NSW.

401 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

Flight Lieutenant WATKINS, Arthur Moorhouse

Source: AWM 237 (65) Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 18th December 1939, Flt Lt Watkins, a pilot, was killed in an accident at Richmond, NSW. He was cremated at the Northern Suburbs Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the NSW Cremation Memorial, Sydney.

402 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

411417 Flying Officer WATSON, Baxter

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/63/186 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: AW849 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 14th October 1942, Anson AW849 was returning from a sea operational flight when it crashed and burnt at 2115 hours, five miles west of Tantanoola, South Australia. The aircraft belonged to No 2AOS Mt Gambia, and the crew were from 6SFTS Mallala. AW849 was engaged in a search following a report of an enemy submarine, but due to errors in navigation during the flight, the aircraft crashed through lack of fuel.

Crew: RAAF 411417 FO Watson, B (Pilot) Killed RAAF 416243 Sgt J H Carroll, (Observer) Baled out safe RAAF 409014 Sgt R L Ayres, (Wireless Air gunner) Baled out but injured

FO Watson is buried in the French’s Forest General Cemetery, NSW.

403 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

1945 Flight Sergeant WATSON, Nigel

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/24/120 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-201 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 SFTS Amberley

Summary: On the 12th February 1941, Wirraways A20-201 and A20-1388 crashed at 1245 hours at 3SFTS Amberley in a collision on the ground. The aircraft collided head on, when one of the aircraft taking off struck the other aircraft taxying back after landing.

Crew: A0-201 RAAF 558 FO Black, P A (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 406250 LAC R A Humphry, (Trainee Pilot) Killed

Crew: A20-1388 RAAF 1945 Flt Sgt N Watson (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 406229 LAC B P Scott, (Trainee Pilot) Seriously Injured

FO Black and LAC Humphry are buried in the Ipswich General Cemetery, Queensland. Flt Sgt Watson was cremated in the Mt Thompson Crematorium, Brisbane, and his name is recorded on the Queensland Cremation Memorial, Brisbane.

404 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

1613 Sergeant WATT, George

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/66/276 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 23rd December 1940, Sgt Watt was killed on his motorcycle when it collided with a Ford van on the Melbourne Geelong road near Laverton, Victoria. WO Park a passenger on the motorcycle was inured. Sgt Watt is buried in the Footscray Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

405 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

1565 Flight Lieutenant WAY, Arthur Hamilton

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/63/151 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A1713 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Narromine

Summary: On the 3rd June 1942, Tiger Moth A1713 crashed at Medlow Bath, NSW and the two on board were killed. The aircraft became lost in bad weather when on a ferrying flight, and crashed in Bathurst road in the vicinity of Lithgow.

Crew: RAAF 1565 Flt Lt Way, A H (Pilot) Mr V H Bragg, PAX Department of Home Security.

Flt Lt Way is buried in the Sydney War Cemetery, NSW. Commonwealth War Graves does not record where Mr Bragg is buried.

406 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

426201 Leading Aircraftsman WELLINGTON, Stanley William

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/177/396 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A17-342 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 EFTS Narromine

Summary: On the 2nd December 1942, Tiger Moth A17-342 was detailed to carry out a dual cross country exercise, from Narromine to Mudgee and return to Narromine. Having refuelled at Mudgee, A17-342 took off from Mudgee drome at 1410 hours. Approx 14 miles north west of Mudgee, the aircraft developed violent vibrations, and the next thing Sgt Stephens the Instructor pilot saw was the starboard lower main plane collapse. He instructed the Pupil Pilot, LAC Wellington, to abandon the aircraft three times but he could not say whether the pupil did actually abandon the aircraft.

The aircraft went into a tight spin and the only way that Sgt Stephens could abandon it was by pulling himself up by the central struts and going out over the engine, which would point to the fact that the propeller had come adrift from the aircraft. From evidence obtained it appeared that neither of the occupants abandoned the aircraft until it was at an approx height of 400 feet from the ground. Stephens chute opened just before he reached the ground safely. It was considered that LAC Wellington failed to pull the ripcord and undid the quick release of his parachute and was killed. .

Crew: RAAF 32524 Sgt A C Stephens, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 426201 LAC S W Wellington, (Pupil Pilot Dual)

LAC Wellington is buried in the Narromine General Cemetery, NSW.

407 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

15281 Leading Aircraftsman WERNER, William Joseph

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/142/261 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-258 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 15th December 1941, Wirraway A20-258 crashed at 0920 hours; 3 miles west of Tumut NSW, and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft had been doing low aerobatics over Tumut, and hit trees on a hillside and crashed.

Crew: RAAF 403354 Sgt W A MaGrath, (Test Pilot) RAAF 15281 LAC W J Werner, (Mechanic)

Sgt Magrath is buried in the Emu Plains (St Paul) Anglican Cemetery, NSW. Emu Plains is 1.5 miles west of Penrith, NSW. LAC Werner is buried in the Penrith General Cemetery, NSW.

408 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

284999 Flying Officer WESTON, Ian Duncan

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/24/183 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2095 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 23rd September 1943, Anson W2095 took off at 2130 hours, detailed to carry out a night dual cross-country flight. Four aircraft were engaged in the nights exercise. The weather report was favourable, and other pilots reported favourable weather en route. Each Pilot Instructor was told to return to base if the weather deteriorated. .

At 2220 hours the weather at the Mallala drome deteriorated, and the flying was cancelled, but in the absence of wireless equipment on the aircraft, they could not be contacted instructing them to return to base. Of the four aircraft in the exercise, two returned to base when the weather deteriorated, and two of them, including W2095 continued with the exercise. Eye witnesses later said that the weather was extremely bad, and they saw an aircraft circling in the cloud above and emerge from it in a fairly steep dive and crash. W2095 crashed on Mr Sandens property at Tarlee, South Australia, and all the crew were killed.

Crew: RAAF 29990 Sgt J P Rice, (Staff Pilot) RAAF 284999 FO Weston, I D (Navigator Instructor) RAAF 419836 LAC C M Lewis, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 429980 LAC D N McDonald, (Trainee Pilot)

All the crew are buried in the Mallala War Cemetery, South Australia.

409 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

252 Flying Officer WESTON, John Francis Durban

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9300 Barcode 5402107 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 6th September 1940, FO Weston, a Pilot, was killed in an aircraft accident at Wagga NSW. He was an Air Cadet on the 17th February 1938. He was cremated in the Rookwood Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the NSW Cremation Memorial, Sydney.

410 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

64689 AircraftsmanClass 1 WHAITE, Lionel Harry

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/177/395 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: Central Flying School Tamworth

Summary: On the 3rd December 1942, AC1 Whaite, a Trainee Group V, at 0815 hours, during manual refuelling operations, was run over by a petrol tanker and died of his injuries. He is buried in the Botany General Cemetery, Sydney, NSW.

411 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

61171 Aircraftsman Class 1 WHATSON, Harold William

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/177/295 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: AC1 Whatson, an Electrician, who was slightly wounded by a bullet wound, when shot by a sentry in the course of his duty, was admitted to No 1 RAAF Hospital Wagga, dangerously ill, when he developed pneumonia. He died on the11th July 1942 from fulminating gangrene infection of the left leg following the gunshot wound. He is buried in the Wagga Wagga General Cemetery, NSW.

412 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

116182 Aircraftsman Class 1 WHENAN, Desmond

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/18/129 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2556 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 14th July 1943, Anson W2556 took off at 1430 hours, detailed to carry out a test flight after a 240 hourly inspection. The aircraft failed to return from the flight, and fragments of the missing aircraft were found washed ashore near Parham on the eastern side of St Vincents Gulf, South Australia, but no sign of the missing crew. It was presumed that they had lost their lives at sea.

Crew: RAAF 406662 FO Pettit, J F (Pilot) RAAF 27786 Cpl J D Horrigan, (Fitter 11E) RAAF 59315 LAC D B Tucker, (Electrician) RAAF 116182 AC1 D Whenan, (Instrument Repairer) RAAF 45971 AC1 J V C Matheson, (Fitter 11A)

All the crew have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is located in the Sydney War Cemetery, situated about 17kms west of Sydney.

413 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

400522 Flying Officer WHITE, Alaric Rupert Samuel

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/177/221 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: X7111 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 8th November 1942, Oxford X7111 on a solo night training flight, ground looped while taking off at 2145 hours from the Werribee Satellite drome, and the aircraft struck and killed FO White. X7111 had received a signal to taxi out and take off from the aerodrome Control officer, who was standing with FO White and other instructors.

Crew: RAAF 421096 LAC F Stephens, (Trainee Solo Pilot) Uninjured.

FO White is buried in the Diamond Creek (Nillumbik) Cemetery, Victoria. Diamond Creek is 16 miles northeast of Melbourne.

414 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

416010 Leading Aircraftsman WHITE, Hawtrey Montague

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/36/94 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: R3553 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 SFTS Amberley

Summary: On the 30th July 1941, Anson R3553 crashed at 0030 hours while night flying and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft hit trees on the boundary of the Amberley drome during an approach to land.

Crew: RAAF 665 FO Hughes, G C (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 416010 LAC H M White, (Trainee Pilot)

Both the crew were cremated at the Mt Thompson Crematorium, Brisbane, Queensland.

415 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

Pilot Officer WHITFORD, James Richard

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 53/1/576 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Tiger Moth Serial number: A7-62 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 FTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 29th November 1939, Tiger Moth A7-62 crashed near Point Cook, and the crew of two were killed.

Crew: RAAF PO Vincent, R T (Instructor Pilot) RAAF PO Whitford, J R (Trainee Pilot)

PO Vincent is buried in the Barrabool Hills Cemetery, Victoria. Highton is a small township about 4 miles from Geelong, and the cemetery is about half a mile west of Highton Post Office. PO Whitford was cremated in the Rookwood Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the NSW Cremation Memorial

416 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

437960 Leading Aircraftsman WICKS, Derek Goldsworthy

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/43/516 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: BM782 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 27th March 1944, Oxford BM782 on a solo training flight, crashed at 1105 hours two miles southwest of Dublin, South Australia, and the trainee pilot was killed.

Crew: RAAF 437960 LAC D G Wicks, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Wicks is buried in the Mallala War Cemetery, South Australia.

417 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

14027 Corpral WILKINSON, Donald

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/178/163 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 6 EFTS Tamworth

Summary: On the 12th July 194`1, Cpl Wilkinson, a Carpenter General, was killed in a motor car accident at Armidale, NSW. Commonwealth War Graves do not record where he is buried.

418 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

405336 Leading Aircraftsman WILKINSON, George Christian Hale

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/162/190 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-251 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 29th August 1941, Wirraway A20-251 crashed at 1540 hours, at Harefield near Wagga NSW, and both the crew were killed. The aircraft was engaged in an instrument flying exercise. LAC Slatyer was in the pilot’s cockpit covered by a hood. He could raise this hood or lower it at will, and he was carrying out specific practices by use of his blind flying instruments.

LAC Wilkinson the occupant in the rear cockpit was a safety pilot or lookout for other aircraft. The rear cockpit was fitted with dual controls, which could be used by the safety pilot in an emergency. The aircraft was at a height of 3,500 feet, when it went into a left hand turn, which developed into a spin showing that the aircraft had stalled. It commenced to spin for four turns, then recovered, but immediately began to spin the other way in a reverse direction, and hit the ground while recovering from the spin.

Crew: RAAF 404995 LAC A Slatyer, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 405336 LAC G C H Wilkinson, (Trainee pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Wagga Wagga General Cemetery, NSW.

419 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

411681 Sergeant WILLCOCKS, Gordon Balmoral

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/94/266 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-333 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 26th August 1942, Wirraways A20-333 and A20-342 collided in mid air at 1345 hours. Both aircraft crashed five miles North West of Wanganella, NSW and both crews were killed.

Crew: A20-333 RAAF 411681 Sgt G B Willcocks, (Pilot) RAAF 411993 Sgt B C Burke, (Wireless Air Gunner)

Crew: A20-342 RAAF 405723 Sgt D N Cullen, (Pilot) RAAF 413812 Sgt A D Woods, (Wireless Air Gunner)

Sgt Cullen and Sgt Woods are buried in the Deniliquin General Cemetery, NSW. Sgt Willcocks is buried in the Glen Innes General Cemetery, NSW. Sgt Burke is buried in the Northern Suburbs General Cemetery, NSW.

420 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

439507 Leading Aircraftsman WILLIAMS, Arthur Edward

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/26/422 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-452 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 18th April 1944, Wirraway A20-452 crashed at 1130 hours, south of Forbes, NSW, and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft was on a triangular cross country navigation exercise at medium level.

Crew: RAAF 439490 LAC L A McNamara, (Trainee Pilot Navigator) RAAF 439507 LAC Williams, A F (Trainee Pilot)

Both the crew are buried in the Parkes General Cemetery, NSW.

421 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

410930 Leading Aircraftsman WILLIAMS, Graeme Marwick

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/178/505 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-344 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 24th December 1942, Wirraways A20-344 and A20-249 collided in mid air during formation flying practice; nine miles west of Mathoura, NSW, and both trainee pilots were killed.

Crew: A20-344 RAAF 410930 LAC G M Williams, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: A20-249 RAAF 410195 LAC D J Hinsley, (Trainee Pilot)

Both trainee pilots are buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW

422 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

418031 Leading Aircraftsman WILLIAMS, Horace George

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/178/506 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 24th December 1942, LAC Williams, a Trainee pilot, drowned while swimming in the Edwards River at Deniliquin, at 1.30pm. He is buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

423 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

134833 Leading Aircraftsman WILLIAMS, Kevin George

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/15/270 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-576 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 22nd June 1944, Wirraway A20-576 crashed at 1550 hours, at Mundiwah station; four miles east of Deniliquin, NSW, and the crew were killed. The aircraft was on a test flight preparatory to night flying

Crew: RAAF 11853 PO Gerrad, J A (Pilot) RAAF 134833 LAC K G Williams, (Flight Mechanic)

Both are buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

424 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

410404 Flying Officer WILLIAMS, Lewis Henry

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/24/558 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-230 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 SFTS Uranquinty

Summary: On the 15th October 1944, Wirraway A20-230 crashed four miles North West of the Rock and the crew were killed. The aircraft was on a night non-operational ferry flight from Belfrayden satellite to the main drome at Uranquinty, and crashed in a dust storm

Crew: RAAF 410404 FO Williams, L H (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 443782 LAC L D Leysley, (Trainee Pilot)

Both are buried in the Wagga Wagga War Cemetery, NSW.

425 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

423964 Leading Aircraftsman WILSHER, George Fenton

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/43/93 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: X6973 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 16th March 1943, Oxford X6973 crashed 4 miles south east of Werribee, Victoria, during a first solo night training flight, and the Trainee Pilot was killed. The aircraft dived into the ground and crashed.

Crew: RAAF 423964 LAC G F Wilsher (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Wilsher is buried in the Springvale War Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria.

426 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

52169 Leading Aircraftsman WILSON, Keith Stillwell

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/178/507 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 29th December 1942, LAC Wilson, a Flight Rigger, died of his injuries received in a motor car accident. The car which was driven by Cpl Delves, struck a tree at 9.45pm, in Cemetery Avenue, adjoining the Deniliquin station grounds. LAC Wilson is buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

427 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

417287 Sergeant WILSON, Robert John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/8/277 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2072 Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 1st November 1943, Anson W2072 crashed at 11so hours 3 miles north of Greenough Township, Western Australia, and the crew were killed. The aircraft was on a non-operational dual instructional flight, and the crash was apparently caused by the pilot losing control of the aircraft when in a cloud, and the starboard main plane disintegrated in a steep; dive.

Crew: RAAF 417287 Sgt R J Wilson, (Staff Pilot) RAAF 415122 Flt Sgt S W Cross, (Wireless Air Gunner) RAAF 437091 LAC W R Morley, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 436204 LAC E J Milstead, (Trainee Pilot)

All the crew are buried in the Geraldton War Cemetery, Western Australia.

428 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

153660 Leading Aircraftsman WILSON, Stanley Bevan

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301 Barcode 5361512, Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS RAAF Mallala

Summary: On the 4th December 1945, LAC Wilson, an Armourer, was demobilised from the RAAF. He died on the 16th March 1947 and is buried in the Dudley Park Cemetery, Adelaide, South Australia. NOTE: Commonwealth War Graves record his date of death as 16th March 1946. AWM Roll of Honour records date of death as 16th March 1947.

429 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

407598 Flying Officer WISHART, James Malcolm

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/164/139 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-338 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 27th February 1942, Wirraway A20-338 crashed at 1300 hours at the bombing range Deniliquin, and the Instructor Pilot was killed.

Crew: RAAF 407598 FO Wishart, J M (Instructor Pilot) Killed. RAAF 416343 LAC W A Knight, (Trainee Pilot) Dangerously injured

PO Wishart is buried in the Deniliquin General Cemetery, NSW.

430 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

418034 Leading Aircraftsman WOODBURY, William Joseph

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/179/253 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-312 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 1st December 1942, Wirraway A20-312 crashed at 2150 hours three miles south east of the Deniliquin and the trainee pilot was killed. The aircraft had been on a night solo training flight when it crashed.

Crew: RAAF 418034 LAC W J Woodbury, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Woodbury is buried in the Deniliquin War Cemetery, NSW.

431 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

448 Flight Lieutenant WOODHILL, Alan Murchison

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/118/170 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-220 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 SFTS Wagga

Summary: On the 20th June 1941, Wirraway A20-220 crashed at 1000 hours at Molebo, nine miles North West of Wagga, and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft had been on a dual cross country flight, and attempted a forced landing due to fog. It dived into the ground and burst into flames on impact.

Crew: RAAF 448 Flt Lt Woodhill AM (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 407789 LAC W O Graham, (Trainee Pilot Dual)

Both the crew are buried in the Wagga Wagga General Cemetery, NSW.

432 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

413812 Sergeant WOODS, Alan Donald

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/94/266 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-333 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 SFTS Deniliquin

Summary: On the 26th August 1942, Wirraways A20-333 and A20-342 collided in mid air at 1345 hours. Both aircraft crashed five miles North West of Wanganella, NSW and both crews were killed.

Crew: A20-333 RAAF 411681 Sgt G B Willcocks, (Pilot) RAAF 411993 Sgt B C Burke, (Wireless Air Gunner)

Crew: A20-342 RAAF 405723 Sgt D N Cullen, (Pilot) RAAF 413812 Sgt A D Woods, (Wireless Air Gunner)

Sgt Cullen and Sgt Woods are buried in the Deniliquin General Cemetery, NSW. Sgt Willcocks is buried in the Glen Innes General Cemetery, NSW. Sgt Burke is buried in the Northern Suburbs General Cemetery, NSW.

433 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

850 Flying Officer WOODS, Maurice Garnet

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/147/92 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wirraway Serial number: A20-272 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 20th June 1941, Wirraway A20-272 crashed at 1630 hours at Moroco West; 232 miles south east of Deniliquin, NSW, and the crew of two were killed. The aircraft was on a cross country training flight.

Crew: RAAF 850 FO Woods, M G (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 401460 LAC W T Northway, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Northway is buried in the White Hills Cemetery, Bendigo,Victoria. Commonwealth War Graves does not record where FO Woods is buried.

434 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

16969 Sergant WOOLLEY, Gordon Ormsby

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A9301Barcode 4562795 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS RAAF Pearce

Summary: On the 19th February 1945, Sgt Woolley, an Equipment Assistant, was discharge from the RAAF being medically unfit for further service. He died on the 31st March 1945, and is buried in the Fremantle Cemetery, Western Australia.

435 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

416054 Sergeant WORRALL, John Ottwell Rowse

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/179/228 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 17th October 1942, Sgt Worrall, an Observer, was admitted to RAAF Wing, Royal Adelaide hospital, seriously ill with Lymphosarcoma. He died of his illness on the 21st October 1942, and is buried in the Moonta Cemetery, South Australia. Moonta is on the coast of Spencers Gulf, about 196kms North West of Adelaide.

436 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

2366 Flying Officer WOTZKO, Laurence Vivian

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/95/331 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: R3542 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 4th August 1942, Anson R3542 and Anson W2165 collided at 0950 hours, over Monteith, South Australia, when in full flight during formation flying.R3542 crashed into the Murray river in water 90 feet deep, and W2165 crashed on the river bank. All on board both aircraft lost their lives in the accident.

Crew: R3542 RAAF 2366 FO Wotzko, L V (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413187 Sgt G Cooper, (Observer) RAAF 416929 LAC L Cadd, (Trainee Pilot) RAAF 416956 LAC N D Haines, (Trainee Pilot)

Crew: W2165 RAAF 406625 Sgt H G Phillips, (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 413018 Sgt M J Nichols, (Observer) RAAF 409484 LAC C McC Say, (Pupil Pilot) RAAF 420056 LAC J B Richardson, (Pupil Pilot)

Crew: R3542 FO Wotzko and LAC Haines have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which is located in the Sydney War Cemetery which is about 17kms west of Sydney. Sgt Cooper and LAC Cadd are buried in the Murray Bridge Cemetery, South Australia.

Crew: W2165 Sgt Phillips was cremated at the South Aust Government Crematorium, and his name is recorded on the South Aust Cremation Memorial. Sgt Nichols is buried in the South Maitland (Kurri Kurri) Cemetery, NSW. LAC Richardson and LAC Say are buried in the Mallala War Cemetery, South Australia.

437 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

1524 Sergeant WRIGHT, Albert Edward

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 53/1 684 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 18th February 1940, Sgt Wright died of an illness at Caulfield, Victoria, and he is buried in the Fawkner Memorial Park Cemetery, Victoria.

438 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

427368 Leading Aircraftsman WRIGHT, Colin Charles Horton

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/38/45 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: W2129 Radio call sign: Unit: 4 SFTS Geraldton

Summary: On the 9th February 1943, LAC Betts a pupil pilot, took off at approx 1530 hours in Anson W1938 detailed to carry out a solo practice flight consisting of climbing turns, steep turns, single engine approaches, and precision landings. At approx 1630 hours Anson W2129 took off to test the aircraft speed indicator and give the pupil pilot some revisionary dual instruction.

At approx 1655 hours, LAC Betts was doing a single engine approach using his port engine, in which he apparently carried out the normal procedure and later claimed no other aircraft was visible. At a height of 200 feet, and approaching the northern end of the boundary of the Geraldton drome, he became aware of portion of an aircraft (W2129) right underneath the nose of his aircraft, and slightly to starboard, and at the same time heard a loud tearing noise. LAC Betts did not see the other aircraft again and landed straight ahead just inside the drome.

Eye witnesses said that W2129 was making a normal approach when it was overtaken from above and behind by W1938, causing a collision and damage to the tail unit of W2129. W2129 immediately climbed sharply for about 40 feet, stalled and executing a peculiar half rolling manoeuvre, struck the ground vertically, and both the occupants were killed.

Crew: W2129 RAAF 406190 Flt Lt Spicer, R C (Instructor Pilot) Killed RAAF 427368 LAC C C H Wright, (Pupil Pilot Killed

Crew: W1938 RAAF 427287 LAC L J Betts, (Pupil Pilot) Uninjured

Both Flt Lt Spicer and LAC Wright are buried in the Geraldton War Cemetery, Western Australia.

439 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

406158 Leading Aircraftsman WRIGHT, Leslie Newman-Samuel

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 163/101/57 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 SFTS Point Cook

Summary: On the 11th January 1941, LAC’s Dean, Parry and Wright, all Pilot trainees, left Point Cook in a sailing dinghy, and failed to return. The Altona police later reported that a sailing dinghy badly damaged had been found washed up on the Altona Beach, Victoria, on Port Phillip Bay. This was the missing dinghy, and it was presumed that the three had drowned.

LAC Dean was cremated in the Springvale Crematorium, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Parry is buried in the Footscray Cemetery, Melbourne, Victoria. LAC Wright has no known grave. His name is commemorated on the Sydney Memorial, which stands in the Sydney War Cemetery, which is situated 17kms west of Sydney, NSW.

440 RAAF FATALITIES IN SECOND WORLD WAR IN RAAF SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS

437246 Leading Aircraftsman YOUNG, Gordon Rex

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/45/19 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: R3518 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 SFTS Mallala

Summary: On the 1st July 1943, Anson R3518 crashed at 1105 hours, nine miles south of Angaston, South Australia, and the Trainee Pilot was killed. The trainee plot had been engaged on a solo cross country exercise, and lost control of the aircraft while flying in cloud, contrary to orders and crashed into a hillside. The aircraft came out of the cloud in a steep diving turn and struck the ground.

Crew: RAAF 437246 LAC G R Young, (Trainee Pilot)

LAC Young is buried in the Mallala War Cemetery, South Australia.

441