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Compilation Alan Storr 2006 The information appearing in this compilation is derived from the collections of the Australian War Memorial and the National Archives of Australia.

Author : Alan Storr Alan was born in Melbourne Australia in 1921. He joined the RAAF in October 1941 and served in the Pacific theatre of war. He was an Observer and did a tour of operations with No 7 Squadron RAAF (Beauforts), and later was Flight Navigation Officer of No 201 Flight RAAF (Liberators). He was discharged Flight Lieutenant in February 1946.

He has spent most of his Public Service working life in Canberra – first arriving in the National Capital in 1938. He held senior positions in the Department of Air (First Assistant Secretary) and the Department of Defence (Senior Assistant Secretary), and retired from the public service in 1975.

He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree (Melbourne University) and was a graduate of the Australian Staff College, ‘Manyung’, Mt Eliza, Victoria.

He has been a volunteer at the Australian War Memorial for 21 years doing research into aircraft relics held at the AWM, and more recently research work into RAAF World War 2 fatalities.

He has written and published eight books on RAAF fatalities in the eight RAAF Squadrons serving in RAF Bomber Command in WW2.

He is a member of Canberra Legacy.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT The Author acknowledges and thanks Kerrie Leech, currently Curator, Private Records, at the Australian War Memorial, for the great contribution she has made ensuring compatibility between my laptop and an AWM computer, so that research material on my laptop can be downloaded, and for her expertise in solving any computer problem that has arisen during the project. Without her contribution, the project would not have got off the ground.

Alan Storr. A WW2 photo of the Author

MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE

BY ALAN STORR.

PREFACE AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS.

These volumes are dedicated to the memory of some brave young members of the Royal Australian Air Force, missing while serving on attachment with the Royal Air Force or other Air Forces during the Second World War, and have no known grave.

The project was inspired by a letter that was published in the RAAF Association magazine ‘Wings’ (Winter Edition 2002), written by a daughter appealing for information about her father missing in WW2 when she was two years of age.

Not only are the volumes a record of some of the unsung heroes of WW2, but I hope it will assist those who are still seeking information about the circumstances in which their loved husband, father, son, brother or family member went missing and has no known grave.

To Mark Whitmore the then Assistant Director, National Collection, Australian War Memorial, Canberra, and now Director, Collections, at the Imperial War Museum, London, and Carmel McInerny, the then Senior Curator, Published & Digitised Records at the AWM and now Manager at the National Library, I extend my grateful thanks for their ready endorsement and support of the project in January 2003 as a worthwhile digitised “add on” to the AWM Honour Roll computer record of those members concerned.

My particular thanks go to Kerri Leech, Assistant Curator, Published & Digitised Records, at AWM for her expert and ready assistance in developing and testing the necessary computer systems and providing computer short cuts designed to make the task easier and help overcome my lack of computer skills. Kerri has also maintained an oversight of and provided continuing advice on the project.

From an initial examination of the RAAF WW2 Registers of Deaths and Burials, AWM 237 (63) Airmen and AWM 237 (64) Officers, with cross checks to AWM237(62) and (65), it was established that there were 1423 RAAF members who fitted the above project criteria of ‘missing with no known grave’ and comprised 511 Officers and 912 Airmen. The bulk of fatalities were among those serving on attachment with the Royal Air Force.

To put the above number of fatalities in context, there were overall 11061 RAAF fatalities in WW2, of which 5944 fatalities occurred in RAAF Squadrons and Support Units, and 5117 fatalities were among RAAF members attached to the Royal Air Force or other Air Forces. It is from this latter figure of 5117 that this project identified the 1423 RAAF members missing with no known grave. Also included in the project are a small number of Australians who enlisted directly in the Royal Air Force either before or in the early stages of the war and are on the AWM Commemorative Roll as missing with no known grave.

2.

With some 1500 RAAF Casualty files to be examined, much of the research of necessity has taken place at Australian National Archives, East Block Canberra.

The work has now been completed, and the information incorporated in the AWM Honour Roll computer record and is available for PDF purposes.

In addition to this digitised “add-on” to the Honour Roll, whereby the information can be accessed on the AWM website www.awm.gov.au, a printout of this same information for each member concerned is filed in alphabetical name order in Volumes 1 to 2 (Officers) and 3 to 6 (Airmen) which are held for research purposes in the AWM Research Centre. AWM Call Number R 940.544941 S886r V.1 to 6 refers.

As a volunteer at the Australian War Memorial it has been a personally rewarding work and one that it has been a privilege to undertake. I always felt that there was a story to be told, and I appreciate the opportunity given to me and the facilities provided by the War Memorial to undertake the work.

Having completed the project there are two things that stand out in my mind.

One is the variety of aircraft types being flown in various theatres of war when reported missing – from single or twin engine fighters, to multi-engine light, medium or heavy bombers as well as multi-engine transports, flying boats or patrol aircraft.

The other is the ages of these men, how young they were – many just lads really.

One can only wonder at their skill and bravery, when one can see as an example, a young RAAF lad who has completed his pilot training in Australia or Canada or Rhodesia. He then proceeded to UK, is attached to the Royal Air Force, does various Conversion and Operational Training Courses, and finds himself at the early age of 20 years and 8 months with the awesome responsibility of being Captain (Pilot) of an RAF Lancaster bomber, responsible not only for his own life but that of the six other crew members on board, taking off at night in UK mid-winter with a full load of bombs and fuel, to undertake the hazardous trip of bombing Berlin or some other daunting target, and on one of these missions the aircraft and crew did not return.

This project I trust honours and pays tribute to their memory.

Alan Storr (Volunteer), Published and Digitised Records. Australian War Memorial, Canberra. 14 November 2004

3.

MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE

EXPLANATORY NOTES

VOLUME NO. SUMMARIES OF MISSING CIRCUMSTANCES (Filed in Aphabetical Name of Member order)

1 Officers Letters A to K 2 Officers Letters L to Z 3 Airmen Letters A to E 4 Airmen Letters F to K 5 Airmen Letters L to P 6 Airmen Letters Q to Y

OTHER AIR FORCES INCLUDED IN THE PROJECT

RAAF personnel serving on attachment with the Royal Air Force, Royal Canadian Air Force, Royal New Zealand Air Force, South African Air Force, Indian Air Force and US Army Air Force.

SOURCES.

AWM 237(63) Airmen and (64) Officers : Register of Deaths and Burials of RAAF Personnel who died on service 1939-1947.

AWM 237 (62) and (65)

AWM Roll of Honour

AWM Commemoration Roll

RAAF Casualty files held by National Archives, Canberra. Series A705.

RAAF Service Record files held by Archives, Canberra Series A9300 or A9301.

AWM 65 Honours & Awards Citations

RAAF WW2 Nominal Roll

AWM Call No. RF 358.41310941 J45r : RAF Squadrons by Wg Cdr Jefford, C.G.

4.

MISSING INCLUDES Missing in Action Missing in Air Operations Missing Lost at Sea Missing in Flying Accident

SUMMARIES OF MISSING CIRCUMSTANCES : This information is as recorded in the relevant RAAF Casualty File for the member concerned. This source covers over 95% of the summaries which are filed in alphabetical name order in these Volumes. In the remaining cases where no Casualty File exists, reference was then made to the members Service Record file, where there is invariably only a one line entry that the member is missing and the presumed date of death, but no information as to the missing circumstances.

RANKS OF CREW MEMBERS : These are as recorded at time aircraft was reported missing. It includes promotions which have been promulgated posthumously but back dated with effect prior to the date the member was reported missing. Rank abbreviations are as per the Honour Roll format.

MUSTERINGS OF CREW : These are shown only when recorded in the Casualty File and appear in the order as recorded in the Circumstantial report.

PARENT AIR FORCE OF CREW MEMBERS : These are shown as and when recorded in the Casualty file. If uncertain then left blank.

AIRCRAFT RADIO SIGNAL : These can comprise two components – the Squadron Code letters and the Aircraft Individual Letter, eg UV-G . the Letters UV denotes RAAF 460 Squadron and the letter G denotes G for George. In some instances the Aircraft letter is only recorded in the Casualty file, in other cases only the Squadron Identity code letters and in other cases no reference at all. The Aircraft Radio signal where shown in the Summary is as recorded in the Casualty file.

CITATIONS : These are recorded in the Summaries where applicable. They are extracted from the relevant AWM Citation file and the file reference noted as the source.

REGIONAL AFFILIATIONS : an informal scheme under which some RAF Squadrons were affiliated to towns in the UK or to cities or countries elsewhere. This was intended to provide the unit with a territorial link and give the related region a more personal stake in the war eg. 61 (City of Lincoln) Sqn RAF, 88 (Hong Kong) Sqn RAF. Whilst these affiliations were never formalised in the Unit’s title, they were consistently used and are included in the summary where applicable.

ACCESS TO MATERIAL : AWM Website : www.awm.gov.au AWM Call Number :R 940.544941 S886r V.1 to 6.

5.

RAAF MEMBERS ATTACHED TO THE ROYAL AIR FORCE IN THE SECOND WORLD WAR AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

STATISTICS ; FATALITIES BY THEATRE OF WAR OR COUNTRY.

FATALITIES

EUROPE 316 (France, Germany, Holland Denmark, Belgium, Austria, Yugoslavia, Bulgaria)

NORWAY/SWEDEN/BALTIC 42

UNITED KINGDOM 58 (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)

NORTH SEA 227

ENGLISH CHANNEL 67

ATLANTIC OCEAN 128

IRISH SEA 34

MIDDLE EAST 63

NORTH AFRICA 74

ITALY/SICILY/SARDINIA/GIBRALTAR/MALTA 63

MEDITTERANEAN (includes Aegean/Adriatic sea) 170

INDIA/CEYLON/INDIAN OCEAN/BAY OF BENGAL 35

BURMA 64

FAR EAST (Malaya, Singapore, NEI, New Guinea) 61

CANADA 21

TOTAL FATALITIES 1423

6.

RAAF MEMBERS ATTACHED TO THE ROYAL AIR FORCE IN THE SECOND WORLD WAR AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

STATISTICS ; FATALITIES BY AIRCRAFT TYPES.

AIRFCRAFT TYPE FATALITIES

LANCASTER 276 WELLINGTON 308 LIBERATOR 108 HALIFAX 77 STIRLING 49 MANCHESTER 9 MARAUDER 24 WHITLEY 28 HAMPDEN 16 BLENHEIM 109 HUDSON 63 BEAUFIGHTER 41 SPITFIRE 61 HURRICANE 29 MOSQUITO 16 SUNDERLAND 26 CATALINA 12 MITCHELL 13 MARYLAND 20 ANSON 10 DAKOTA 21 BALTIMORE 15 BEAUFORT 19 BOSTON 9 * OTHERA/C TYPES 64 (under 10 fatalities)

TOTAL : 51 A/C TYPES 1423 FATALITIES.

*Includes Albacore, Albermarle, Beechcraft, Bisley, Bombay, Botha, Cnerlie, Defiant, DH86, Flying Fortress, Harvard, Kittyhawk, Lerwick, Martinet, Mohawk, Mustang, Oxford, Proctor, Tempest, Tomahawk, Thunderbolt, Typhoon, Ventura, Vilderbeeste, Walrus, Warwick, Whirlibomber.

7

RAAF MEMBERS ATTACHED TO THE ROYAL AIR FORCE IN THE SECOND WORLD WAR AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

STATISTICS ; FATALITIES BY MUSTERINGS.

MUSTERING FATALITIES

PILOT 549

OBSERVER, NAVIGATOR, BOMBAIMER, AIR BOMBER, NAVIGATOR WIRELESS. 361

WIRELESS OPERATOR AIR GUNNER WIRELESS OPERATOR AIR 386

AIR GUNNER 122

FLIGHT ENGINEER 4

FITTER MECHANIC 1

TOTAL FATALITIES 1423

REFERENCE SOURCES :

Australian War Memorial Roll of Honour Print Outs.

AWM 237 (65) RAAF WW2 Fatalities by Squadrons

AWM 237 (63) Airmen and (64) Officers : Register of Deaths and Burials of RAAF Personnel who died on service 1939-1947

AWM 65 ( ) Citations held by Australian War Memorial

(NAA) National Australian Archives at East Block, Canberra :: Series A705 RAAF WW2 Casualty files. Series A9300 and A9301 RAAF Members WW2 Service records files.

Micro Film No 463 OAFH ) Office of RAAF Air Force History.

Veteran Affairs Nominal Roll 1939-1947 RAAF members .

Commonwealth War Graves records.

RAAF WW2 POW Files held at the Australian War Memorial : File Ref Series A54 File 779/3/129, Parts 1 to 30.

W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses of the Second World War, Volumes 1939 to 1947.

Michael Maton : DFC’s for Australians in World War 2

Ian Tavender : DFM Registers for WW2 Volumes 1 and 2.

SECOND WORLD WAR OVERVIEW : ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE

The Royal Australian Air Force was expanding when war broke put, having 12 Squadrons formed, or in the process of forming. Most were located in Australia, but Australian airmen would end up serving in every theatres of war.

At the outbreak of war, 10 Squadron RAAF was in Britain collecting Sunderland flying boats purchased by the RAAF. The squadron was offered to Britain to serve as part of the Royal Air Force Coastal Command, flying anti-submarine patrols over the Atlantic Ocean for the duration of the war. 11 Squadron was stationed at Port Moresby with Catalina flying boats, flying long-range reconnaissance patrols over northern Australia and north of Papua New Guinea. In 1940, 3 Squadron was posted to the Middle East as an army co-operation squadron with the Australian Imperial Force, but became a fighter squadron.

Plans had been made to raise and send more squadrons overseas but the Australian Government then signed up to the Empire Air Training Scheme (EATS), under which the Royal Australian, New Zealand and Canadian Air Forces would train aircrews to be loaned to the Royal Air Force. Most would serve in British squadrons, though some would be posted to ‘Article XV’, or ‘400-series’squadrons. These squadrons were raised by the RAF but with their nationality officially recognised – for instance 460 Squadron RAAF, to which the famous Lancaster G for George at the Australian War Memorial belonged. Many aircrews who survived their tours of duty returned to Australia to serve in RAAF Squadrons as instructors.

Training of EATS recruits took place in Australia, Canada, Rhodesia and Britain. By war’s end almost 40,000 Australians had been sent overseas under this scheme., serving in Europe, the Middle East, Burma and other places. Many men in Australia and overseas died in training accidents. Many who graduated from courses flew with Bomber Command, which had the highest operational loss rate of any British Commonwealth force in the war. The RAAF also sent ground crews to serve in most of the Article XV squadrons (as well as 3 and 10 Squadrons), most serving up to four years service overseas. Hundreds of RAAF members became prisoners of war in Germany and Italy, as well as a smaller number in the Far East.

The majority of RAAF personnel remained in Australia. The massive expansion of the forces required extensive administration, training, supply and maintenance services, and there was also a strong commitment to ‘home defence’, so many men and most women who volunteered for the RAAF never got a chance to serve overseas. To assist in meeting the demand for manpower within Australia, the RAAF formed the Women’s Australian Auxiliary Air Force in 1941, recruiting women to serve in administrative roles and to perform routine maintenance on aircraft, serving alongside men, in non-operational units (mostly training establishments) in Australia.

In 1940, the RAAF sent three squadrons to Malaya; in 1941 these were joined by an Article XV squadron, 453, raised at Bankstown, New South Wales, along with some EATS graduates posted to British squadrons. They were the first to see action against Japanese forces.About 200 RAAF men, mostly ground staff, were taken prisoner by the Japanese. By the end of 1942, RAAF squadrons also had seen extensive operational service in northern Australia, the Netherlands East Indies and Papua New 2.

Guinea. Other squadrons flew anti-submarine patrols over the shipping lanes around Australia. .

The majority of RAAF personnel who saw active service served in these campaigns against Japan. A few had previously served in Europe or the Middle East. Along with flying squadrons, RAAF members served in various supporting units including headquarters, supply depots, communications flights, medical aerial evacuation units, radar stations and airfield construction squadrons – some of the latter two types of units serving in the Philippines in 1945 with American forces. The RAAF also played a part in the repatriation of prisoners of war at the end of the war. The only RAAF servicewomen to see active service were members of the RAAF Nursing Service.

Source : Veteran’s Affairs World War 2 Nominal Roll

Note : There were 11,061 RAAF fatalities in World War 2.. (Australian War Memorial Fact Sheet No 19 refers).*

comprising 5,117 fatalities in RAAF members attached to RAF (primarily) or in some instances other Air Forces (Source : Count of fatalities in AWM 237 (62) Register of Deaths. and 5,944 fatalities in RAAF Squadrons and support units..

* Source AWM 148 Roll of Honour cards, RAAF, Second World War.

RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400719 Sergeant LA GRUTA, Anthony Dominica Cyril

Source: NAA : A705, 163/136/83

Aircraft Type: Defiant Serial number: T 4042 Radio call sign: Unit: 60 Op Training RAF

Summary: Sgt La Gruta flying Defiant T 4042 was authorised to carry out a local R/T and D/F homing practice on 29 August 1941. He was instructed to remain in the locality of the drome in view of the possibility of a decrease in visibility due to early morning mist. The aircraft was authorised to leave at 0645 hours. At 0700 hours instructions were issued to recall T 4042 on R/T. At 0730 the aircraft was reported as being overdue.

Subsequent searches located the wreck of the aircraft on a nearby mountain top. It would appear that the aircraft became lost in cloud and crashed into the mountain. The site of the accident was in the vicinity of Lauder, East Lothian, Scotland. Sgt La Gruta was later recorded as having no known grave.

A Memorial constructed in the moors in an area known as Hunt Law Lammermuir about 7.5 miles north east of Lauder by the volunteer labour of local people, was dedicated at a service conducted at the site on 2nd September 1951.

Crew: RAAF 400719 Sgt La Gruta, A D C (Pilot)

1 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

416864 Flight Sergeant LACEY, Raymond George

Source: NAA: A705, 166/24/161

Aircraft Type: Baltimore Serial number: AH 111 Radio call sign: Unit: 75 Op Training RAF

Summary: Baltimore AH 111 of No 75 Operational Training Unit RAF took off at 1425 hours on 14th August 1943 on a navigational exercise over the Mediterranean. The aircraft did not return to base from this exercise.

Crew: RAAF 9301 Sgt Yeates, I M Captain (Pilot) RAAF 416864 Flt Sgt Lacey, R G (Observer) RAAF 413657 Sgt Power, L J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) SAAF 2nd Lieut Caine, K P (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

It was later established from Sgt Yeates who survived the crash that “ when over the sea 25 minutes after take off, white smoke emitted from the port engine. At 1513 hours a course was set for base, and shortly after the port engine burst into flames. Yeates warned the crew that he would ditch the aircraft. After ditching both the Pilot and Navigator (Flt Sgt Lacey) climbed on to the wing of the aircraft. Lt Caine was still in the turret trying to open the emergency escape window. Sgt Power was lying on the floor of the aircraft. The aircraft sank very suddenly and both Caine and Power went down with the aircraft.

Both Yeates and Lacey wearing Mae wests stayed together in the vicinity by floating and swimming to stay warm. During the night the breeze freshened and Flt Sgt Lacey swallowed a fair amount of water. At 0700 hours it was decided to swim for the shore which was in sight. Lacey was weak and delirious and progress was slow. At 1630 hours he stopped talking and he was apparently dead.

An hour later Sgt Yeates was picked up by the Polish destroyer Salzac. The body of Flt Sgt Lacey was also recovered and artificial respiration applied but without success. Flt Sgt Lacey was then buried at sea. Although the pilot survived this accident, he later as FO Yeates was reported missing on 14 July 1944 when serving with 459 Sqn RAAF.” Sgt Power and 2nd Lt Caine have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Alamein Memorial. Egypt.

2 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

430373 Flight Sergeant LAIDLER, Gordon James Keith

Source: NAA : A705, 166/24/529

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HE 444 Radio call sign: Unit: 21 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington HE 444 of No 21 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off from RAF Moreton in the Marsh, to attack a diversionary “Bullseye” target, 58 miles from Borkum in the Frisian Islands. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. Other crews reported some ack ack fire from a flak ship near the target, and also ack ack fire from a convoy 10 miles off Cromer on the return journey.

Crew: RAAF 429224 Flt Sgt Griffin, F I Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Kempthorne,, R D (Navigator) RAF Sgt Grego, G C (Air Bomber) RAAF 430373 Flt Sgt Laidler, G J K (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt McLachlan. D C (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Whittle, R (Air Gunner)

Apart from an envelope being found in the sea of Cromer, with the service particulars of Sgt Grego, no trace of the missing aircraft or crew were found and in 1949 it was recorded that they had lost their lives at sea.

3 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403191 Sergeant LAING, Richard John

Source: NAA : A705, 163/136/181 AWM 65 (3081)

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HX 399 Radio call sign: Unit: 40 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HX 399 of 40 Sqn RAF took off from Base at approx 10pm on 19 July 1942, to carry out a night operation. It climbed to 3000 feet and after an hour arrived over Wadi Natrun, in the Middle East. It then climbed a further 3000 feet but soon after an explosion occurred in the starboard engine. The bombs were immediately jettisoned, the fire extinguisher applied and the crew prepared to evacuate. The fire continued and the Captain gave the order to evacuate. After four of the crew had baled out the Captain decided to try and belly land the aircraft. Sgt Laing (RAAF) the Wireless Operator also stayed in the aircraft and continued sending out SOS messages.

Crew: RNZAF Sgt Kingsford, P R Captain (Pilot) RNZAF Sgt Tovey, A J (2nd Pilot) RAF Sgt Clarke, J (Observer) RAAF 403191 Sgt Laing, R J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 407846 Sgt McTaggart, I (Front Gunner) RAAF 401211 Sgt Goss, I E (Rear Gunner)

Both Sgt Laing (RAAF) and Sgt Kingsford (RNZAF) were killed in the crash and Sgt Laing was buried in an isolated grave in Egypt. Later searches could not locate the grave site and he is recorded as having no known grave.

4 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

412150 Sergeant LAMB, Harold Victor

Source: NAA: A705, 166/24/16

Aircraft Type: Cherlie 87 Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: Royal Air Force Ferry Command, RCAF.

Summary: Sgt Lamb was a passenger in a Cherlie 87 Aircraft missing on an operational flight on 17 January, 1943. The aircraft departed from Accra, Africa, at 1130pm local time on a flight to Natal on the east coast of Brazil, approx 158 miles north of Pernambuco, but failed to reach its destination.

Crew: The aircraft was crewed by US personnel of the US Transport Command, and carried RCAF, RAAF and civilian passengers.

RAAF 412730 FO Smithson, W T W (Navigator, (Pax)) RAAF 412150 Sgt Lamb, H V (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, (Pax))

The body of one U.S.passenger, Major Mills, was found on a life raft in the vicinity of Natal. But no trace of the other passengers or crew was found.

In 1948 it was recorded that the missing RAAF passengers had lost their lives at sea.

5 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

410349 Flight Sergeant LAMOND, Frank Raymond

Source: NAA: A705, 166/24/412

Aircraft Type: Marauder Serial number: B 117780 Radio call sign: Unit: 14 Sqn RAF

Summary: Marauder B 117780 of 14 Sqn RAF took off at 0750 hours on 29 March 1944 to carry out a low level recce of shipping in the north west Mediterranean area along the Spanish and French coasts between Barcelona and Marseilles. The British Consul at Barcelona later advised that at 1030 hours on 29 March 1944, the aircraft crashed in the sea about 3 miles off Mataro, Barcelona district, a Spanish Mediterranean port.

Crew: RAAF 4505 FO McDonald, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 417089 FO Lewis, J W (2nd Pilot) RAAF 421620 Flt Sgt Peedom, C M (Navigator) RAAF 421990 Flt Sgt Lanham, R, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 421840 Flt Sgt Woods, M T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 410349 Flt Sgt Lamond, F R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

No trace was found of Flt Sgt Lamond, but the remains of the other five crew members are buried in the Mataro Cemetery, Barcelona.

6 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404212 Sergeant LAMOND, Henry James

Source: NAA: A705, 163/136/128

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Z 7586 Radio call sign: Unit: 211 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim Z 7586 of 211 Sqn RAF was lost as a result of enemy action at approx 12.30pm on 6 February 1942. Three aircraft were operating on escort duty and two did not return (Z 7586 and Z 9713), and the third aircraft was shot down on the way back to Palembang. The escort duty was over a convoy from Berhala Straits to Banka Straits.

A survivor (Sgt Offard) from the third aircraft shot down, later stated that “he had seen one Blenheim on fire, but he did not know what happened to the second aircraft missing”.

Crew: RAAF 400823 Sgt A.T.Bott, Pilot. RAAF 404212 Sgt H.J.Lamond, Observer. RAAF 406200 Sgt J.N.Lynas, Air Gunner.

Following post war enquiries and investigations the search for the above missing crew was abandoned in 1950.

7 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

413617 Flight Sergeant LANCASTER, Eric Edward

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/24/64 Commonwealth War Graves Records. W R Chorley RAF Bomber Command Losses of the Second\ World War, Page 95,Volume 1943.:

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: BK 299 Radio call sign: Unit: ATTD 166 SQN RAF

Summary: Wellington BK 299 of 166 Sqn RAF was one of twelves aircraft which took off from RAF Kirmington, Lincolnshire on the night of 6/7th April 1943 to carry out mining operations in specified areas off Lorient, France. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Lt Brown, N S H (Pilot) RAF Sgt Lankaster, R (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAAF 413617 Flt Sgt Lancaster, E E (Observer) RAF Sgt Lewis, M H V (Wireless Operator) RAF Sgt Caulton, I (Air Gunner)

Following post war investigations and enquiries it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK.

8 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

421287 Flight Sergeant LANGLEY, Francis Thomas

Source: NAA : A705, 166/24/393

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: LN 641 Radio call sign: Unit: 37 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington LN 641 of 37 Sqn RAF took off from Tortorella Landing Ground at 1821 hours on 24 February 1944 to carry out operations against the Steyr Aircraft Works in Southern Austria. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. Steyr is approx 19 miles south east of Linz, Austria.

Crew: RAAF 421287 Flt Sgt Langley, F T Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Hutchinson, M A (Navigator) RAF Sgt Jeavons, S D (Wireless Operator Air) RAF FO Duncan, C S (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Topple, J D (Air Gunner)

Post war investigations revealed that a single aircraft had bombed the Aircraft Works on 24 February 1944, and LN 641 was apparently returning from the mission when it crashed. Extensive searches in the area and north west Yugoslavia, failed to find any trace of the missing aircraft or crew, and they were recorded as having no known grave.

9 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

406531 Sergeant LANGOULANT, Thomas Bruce

Source: NAA: A705, 163/136/180

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: FH 378 Radio call sign: Unit: 48 Sqn RAF

Summary: Hudson FH 378 of 48 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Wick, Caithness, Scotland, at 1150 hours on 15 July 1942 to carry out a “Trost” patrol. The ETA bask at base was 1810 hours, but nothing was heard from the aircraft and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Sqn Ldr Petersen, V A Captain (Pilot) RCAF Sgt Dogue, G (Navigator) RAAF 406531 Sgt Langoulant, T B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 406543 Sgt Willis, T A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was established that the remains of Sqn Ldr Petersen was recovered from the sea in the vicinity of the Island of Froya, and interred in the Stavne Cemetery, Trondhiem, Norway. Froya is a small island off the coast approx 104 miles of Bergen, Norway. It was recorded in 1948 that the other missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

10 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

409554 Flight Sergeant LARKINS, David Brian

Source: NAA : A705, 166/24/267

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: JA 268 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 Overseas Aircraft – Delivery RAF

Summary: Wellington JA 268 of No 3 Overseas Aircraft Delivery RAF, departed Hurn Transit Flight at 0007 hours on 22 January 1944 for Rabat Sale, Morocco, via the Scilly Isles and Finisterre.

At 0130 hours on 22 January, a Coastal Command Flying Fortress left its base in England via the same route, and at 0307 hours when approx 145 miles due west of Brest, the Flying Fortress flying in cloud at 5000 feet, collided with another aircraft. The Fortress managed to return to its base in the UK, with the white trimming tab and rudder of a Wellington aircraft wrapped around the leading edge of its port wing.

There was no doubt that the Fortress had collided with JA 268, as it was the only Wellington aircraft reported missing in that area at the time.

Crew: RAAF 409554 Flt Sgt Larkins, D B (Pilot) RAF WO Miles, T (Navigator) RAF Sgt Stamper, H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

11 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402510 Sergeant LAUDER, Keith John

Source: NAA: A705, 163/136/127

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: AM 796 Radio call sign: Unit: 59 Sqn RAF

Summary: Hudson AM796 of 59 Sqn RAF took off on a Reefer patrol over the North Sea from its base at North Coates, Lincolnshire, UK, at 0855hrs on 2 March 1942. Since then nothing further heard of either the aircraft or any member of the crew. Missing lost over the North Sea.

Crew: RAAF 402510 Sgt Lauder, K J (Pilot) RAAF 404203 Sgt Rutherford, D R (Air Observer) RAAF 404638 FO Bain, D H (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 402999 Sgt Jones, W T (Wireless Operator)

12 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

425523 Warrant Officer LAWRENCE, James Goudie

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/24/592 Commonwealth war Graves record

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: MF 396 Radio call sign: Unit: ATTD 172 SQN RAF

Summary: Wellington MF396 of 172 Sqn RAF took off at 0148 hours on 14 November 1944, to carry out an operational patrol over the sea at night in an area north west of Ireland.. Shortly after take off the Coast Guard at Ramoor Head at 0156 hours reported seeing an aircraft coming from south of the River Foyle at a height of approx 1500 feet and heading towards the sea. Intermittent flashes were coming from the tail of the aircraft and in less than a minute the aircraft burst into flames, and crashed into the sea.8 to12 miles from Portrush. Some wreckage washed up in Eire revealed evidence of extensive fire damage in the fuselage. Salvage operations were conducted but no trace of the aircraft or the missing crew was found.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Baxter, J R Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Jerrard, R (2nd Pilot) RAAF 422034 WO Weeks, G V (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAAF 425523 WO Lawrence, J G (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Flt Sgt Hall, H G (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Pike, W (Wireless Operator Air)

WO Weeks body was recovered from the sea off Magilligan Point, Northern Ireland, and he is buried at the Drumchose (Christ Church) Church of Ireland, Limavady , Londonderry, Northern Ireland. The remaining crew members have no known grave and their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

13 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

414705 Flight Sergeant LAWTON, John

Source: NAA : A9301, Barcode 5523433

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 70 Sqn RAF

Summary: Flt Sgt Lawton flying a Wellington aircraft of No 70 Sqn RAF based at RAF Station Tortorella, was reported missing on a sortie against Allesandria, Italy, on 2 May 1944.

Crew: RAAF 414705 Flt Sgt Lawton, J (Pilot) Details of other crew members are not recorded in the above file.

14 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

408724 Flight Sergeant LAY, Kenneth Laurence William

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/24/115 Micro Film No 463 OAFH Commonwealth War Graves records W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses of the Second World War, Page 177, Volume 1943.

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: ED 935 Radio call sign: GT - Unit: ATTD 156 SQN RAF

Summary: Lancaster ED 935 took off from RAF Warboys, Huntingdon, at 2338 hours on the night of 11/12th June 1943, detailed to bomb Munster, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 408724 Flt Sgt Lay, K L W Captain (Pilot) RAF FO Cowley, J A DFM (2nd Pilot) RAAF 411748 PO Bryant, R M (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAF Sgt Drake, W J (Wireless Operator) RAF Sgt Ratcliffe, F E (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Bauman, D C (Bomb Aimer) RAF Sgt Curtis, J R (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Forster, W (Rear Gunner)

Four bodies were washed ashore in the Zuider Zee area, viz, FO Cowley (RAF) and PO Bryant (RAAF) who are interred in the New East Cemetery, Amsterdam, and Sgt Drake (RAF) and Sgt Curtis (RAF) who are buried in the Lemmer Cemetery which is located on the west coast of the Zuider Zee, 15 miles north west of Vollenhorz.

The four remaining missing crew members are recorded as having lost their lives at sea. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

15 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

425679 Flight Sergeant LEAHY, William Joseph

Source: NAA : A705, 166/24/401

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: BZ 776 Radio call sign: Unit: 224 Sqn RAF

Summary: Liberator BZ 776 of 224 Sqn RAF took off from RAF St Eval, Cornwall, at 2015 hours on 19 March 1944, to carry out an anti sub patrol in the Bay of Biscay. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Lt Dunn, R Captain (Pilot) RAF FO Cormack, R V (2nd Pilot) RAAF 425679 Flt Sgt Leahy, W J (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAF Flt Sgt Stockwell, W F (Navigator) RCAF Flt Sgt Penhale, H M (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RCAF Flt Sgt Thornton, H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RNZAF Flt Sgt Souter, T P (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Jones, G K (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt McCartney, J C (Flight Engineer) RAF WO Cook, R H (Wireless Operator Mechanic/Air Gunner)

Following post ware enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

16 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

425861 Warrant Officer LEAMON, Francis Noel

Source: NAA : A705, 166/24/746

Aircraft Type: Spitfire Serial number: RK 884 Radio call sign: Unit: 332 Sqn Royal Air Force (Norwegian)

Summary: Spitfire RK 884 (Yellow 2) of 332 Sqn Royal Air Force (Norwegian), took off at 1605 hours on 25 March 1945, as part of a squadron fighter sweep on Quackenbruck aerodrome, Germany. The drome is about 40 miles north of Osnabruck. Nothing was sighted until the formations arrived at the drome at 1648 hours. After dropping their tanks all three sections made a surprise attack and strafed the drome where two enemy aircraft were observed.

Yellow 3 stayed at 6000 feet as he could not jettison his tank. Light flak was encountered He saw Yellow 2 go in after Yellow 1. Yellow 2 was hit by ack-ack fire when pressing home the attack, and the aircraft hit the ground and exploded near the border of the drome. Flames and thick black smoke were seen, and it was believed the pilot would have been killed. Yellow 3 circled the drome a couple of times, but could only observe pieces of burning wreckage.

Crew: RAAF 425861 WO Leamon, F N (Pilot)

Although original German documents recorded that WO Leamon had been buried at Quackenbruck Cemetery, his grave and a large number of graves located there could not be identified. All RAAF and RAF members buried at Quackenbruck were subsequently re-interred in the British Military Cemetery at Rheinberg, and WO Leamon was recorded as having no known grave.

17 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404019 Sergeant LEE, Cyril Francis

Source: NAA: A705, 163/137/83

Aircraft Type: Maryland Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 69 Sqn RAF

Summary: A Maryland aircraft of 69 Sqn RAF left Luqa, Malta on 15 July 1941 to carry out a photo recce over Tripoli and the North African coast. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 404019 Sgt Lee, C F (Pilot) RAAF 402026 Sgt Simpson, J McK ( Observer) RAAF 404036 Sgt Neill, J C G (Air Gunner) There are no other details of any other crew member recorded on above file.

In 1948 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

18 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400756 Sergeant LEE, Douglas Henry

Source: NAA: A705, 163/137/230

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: W 5478 Radio call sign: Unit: 104 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington W 5478 of 104 Sqn RAF Middle East, took off at night on 29 October 1942 detailed to carry out attacks on troop concentrations in the battle area. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF PO Martin, J.S., Pilot. RCAF Sgt W.D.M.Embree, Pilot. RAF Sgt V.R.Pear, Observer. RAAF 400756 Sgt D.H.Lee, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAAF 405039 Flt Sgt A.R.G.Hart, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAF Sgt B.A.Beeney, Air Gunner.

Following post war investigations and enquiries when no trace of the missing aircraft or crew could be found, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had no known grave.

19 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

421602 Sergeant LEE, Jack Stuart

Source: NAA : A705, 166/24/116

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: BJ 672 Radio call sign: Unit: 27 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington BJ 672 of No 27 Operational Training Unit RAF took off from RAF Station Lichfield, Staffordshire, at 1136 am on a non operational flight over the North Sea on 14 June 1943. Communications were received from the aircraft at 1141am and 1224pm when the aircraft was near Boston, Lincolnshire on the outward journey. No other messages were received and BJ 672 failed to return to base.

Crew: RAAF 15851 Flt Sgt W.D.Weir, Pilot RAAF 412024 Sgt V.C.Mcquade, Observer. RAAF 413373 Flt Sgt G.H.Gray, Observer. RAAF 410327 Sgt R.McL.Grieve, Wireless Operator Air Gunner RAAF 421602 Sgt J.S.Lee, Air Gunner.

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

20 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

406145 Sergeant LEFROY, John Mervyn

Source: NAA : A705, 163/137/161

Aircraft Type: Boston Serial number: Z 21Y6 Radio call sign: Unit: 24 Sqn (SAAF)

Summary: Boston Z21Y6 of 24 Sqn SAAF was detailed to bomb the Derna Harbour, Libya, on 29 May 1942. Heavy ack ack guns were experienced on this mission and the aircraft failed to return to base.

Crew: SAAF Lt Murrow, L H (Pilot) SAAF Lt Wakeling, E F (Observer) RAAF 406145 Sgt Lefroy, J M (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) SAAF Sgt King, E D (Air Gunner)

It was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

21 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400240 Flight Sergeant LESLIE, Kenneth McKenzie

Source: NAA: A705, 163/137/197

Aircraft Type: Whitley Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 58 Sqn RAF

Summary: A Whitley aircraft of 58 Sqn RAF took off at 1440 hours on 17 August 1942, on an anti- submarine patrol in the Bay of Biscay. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 400240 Flt Sgt Leslie, K McK (Observer) RAF PO Uglton, C RCAF PO Savage RAF Sgt Phillipson RAF Sgt Marshall RCAF Sgt Metivier

Following post war enquiries and investigations it was established that Sgt Phillipson’s body was recovered from the Bay of Biscay off Cape Ortegal, Corunna, Spain, and interred in the Cedeira Public Cemetery. No trace of the other missing crew members was found, and it was recorded that they had lost their lives at sea.

22 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

425173 Warrant Officer LESTER, Donald Joseph

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/24/514 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: PB 140 Radio call sign: OL – H Unit: ATTD 83 SQN RAF Summary: Lancaster PB 140 of 83 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Coningsby, Lincolnshire, at 0908 hours on 6 August 1944 to attack the flying bomb storage area at Bois de Cassan, France. The aircraft reached the target and after bombing was completed it was attacked by three Focke Wolfe aircraft. PB 140 was severely damaged in the attack, and with the aircraft out of control the Captain ordered the crew to abandon the aircraft.

In the attack both the Rear Gunner and the Wireless Operator who had been injured, informed the Captain that they would be unable to obey the order. The Captain cancelled the abandon aircraft order and decided to try and bring the aircraft under control and make a forced landing. Prior to the cancellation of the order however the Mid Upper Gunner, WO Lester had abandoned the aircraft, and his parachute was seen to open successfully. The position of the aircraft at that time was approx 15 miles north west of Paris.

The Captain succeeded in gaining control of the aircraft, feathered the port inner engine, and successfully flew the aircraft back to UK making a crash landing at Ford airfield, Sussex at 1415 hours. Crew: RAF Flt Lt Kelly, J A Captain (Pilot) RCAF FO Irwin, A K (Navigator) RCAF FO MacNeil, M (Air Bomber) RAF Flt Sgt Lambert, S R (Wireless Operator) RAF Flt Sgt Burleigh, S C Flight Engineer) RAAF 425173 WO Lester D J (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 417642 PO Duggin, G J (Rear Gunner) RAAF 416947 WO Gallagher, R W F (Front Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, in the French Departments of the Seine and Oust, and cemeteries in the L’Isle Adam area, it was recorded in 1948 that WO Lester had no known grave. His name is commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

23 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

418285 Flight Sergeant LEVER, Ernest James

Source: NAA: A705, 166/24/379

Aircraft Type: Whitley Serial number: LA 836 Radio call sign: Unit: 19 Op Training RAF

Summary: Whitley LA 836 of No 19 Operational Training RAF took off from RAF Station, Kinloss, Morayshire, at 2014 hours on 6 February 1944, on a night non-operational training flight. The route was from Base – Stirling – Goole – 55.20N 02.00W – Inverurie – Base.

Contact was maintained with the aircraft until 0143 hours on the 7th February. Information was then received from the Coast Guard in the vicinity of Lossiemouth that an aircraft had come down in the sea. They had heard aircraft engines then saw a flash, and heard an explosion. They reported the position as 3 miles offshore on a bearing of 085deg from Lossiemouth. As LA 836 was due in the vicinity at about that time and did not return to base, it seemed certain that the aircraft was LA 836. Searches on the following day revealed no trace of the missing aircraft or crew.

Crew: RAF Sgt Brooks, D A (Pilot) RAF Sgt Brown, J A (Navigator) RAAF 418285 Flt Sgt Lever, E J (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Marling, J E (Wireless Operator) RCAF Sgt Woods, R C (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Saunders, A R (Mid Upper Gunner)

In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

24 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

412458 Flight Sergeant LEWIS, Alfred Edward

Source: NAA : A705, 166/24/85

Aircraft Type: Stirling Serial number: R 9290 Radio call sign: Unit: 75 Sqn RAF

Summary: Stirling R 9290 of 75 (New Zealand) Sqn RAF took off from RAF Newmarket, Suffolk, at 1841 hours on 28 April 1943 to carry out a mine laying operation. The aircraft failed to return to base.

Crew: RAAF 412458 Flt Sgt Lewis, A E Captain (Pilot) RNZAF Sgt Corin, H G (Navigator) RAF PO Bickham, C J N (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Moulton, F A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Graham, A (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Whitehouse, J H (Mid Upper Gunner) RNZAF Sgt Howes, V C (Rear Gunner)

Post war enquiries and investigations established that the aircraft exploded in mid air at approx 0023 hours at a point west of Vesternas, over the water of the Osterso. There were strong ack-ack batteries located at this point. No bodies were recovered but articles of clothing and some remains were washed ashore, and in 1946 a Memorial Plaque was erected.

25 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407123 Flight Sergeant LEWIS, Frank Herbert

Source: NAA : A705, 163/137/104

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: T 2991 Radio call sign: Unit: 38 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington T 2991 of 38 Sqn RAF took off from Advanced Landing Ground 60 at 2045 hours on 19 November 1941 on a raid on Derna Landing Ground. The aircraft was due to return to base at 0200 hours on 20th November.

At 0325 hours the aircraft was given a QDM bearing by ALG 09 of 025deg. At 0336 another bearing of 026deg was given. At 0440 hours T 2991 requested ALG 09 to fire rockets to indicate its location. ALG fired the only rocket left the others having been used earlier in the night to assist another aircraft. ALG 09 also flashed its Chance Light on/off.

The aircraft was heard flying above the clouds at 0445 hours a few miles away. There was no communication orally or by W/T. The aircraft did not land at ALG 09. At the time there was 9/10ths cloud cover with a base of 1500 feet.

The burnt out wreck of T 2991 was discovered the next day. It had crashed when making a forced landing. There were no survivors.

Crew: RAAF 407123 Flt Sgt Lewis, F H Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Helmyer, J (2nd Pilot) RAF Sgt Fenn, P (Observer) RAF Sgt Sharp, H J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Hamilton, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Coombes, (Air Gunner)

In 1946 searches to locate the graves of the crew were abandoned.

26 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

406146 Sergeant LEWIS, Harold Victor

Source: NAA: A705, 166/24/590

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 211 Sqn RAF

Summary: Sgt Lewis a POW of the Japanese was missing lost at sea on 24 June 1944 when the Japanese transport ship “Rakuyuo Maru” carrying 772 POW’s including 17 RAAF members was torpedoed off the Japanese coast. Only 212 POWs survived the sinking.

In a statement by WO Barnes (RAAF) a survivor from the sunken ship he reported “ at approx 1155 pm on 24 June 1944 en route to Japan from Java via Singapore, the Japanese transport ship of 6000 tons was torpedoed and sank in 2 minutes. The location was about 60 miles from Nagasaki, Japan and not off Sumatra as originally reported.

Sgt Lewis was a Wireless Operator Air Gunner in the RAAF attached to 211 Sqn RAF, Far East on 17 January 1942.

27 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

416972 Flight Sergeant LEWIS, John Owen

Source: NAA: A705, 166/24/377.

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: BZ 795 Radio call sign: Unit: 53 Sqn RAF

Summary: Liberator BZ 795 of 53 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station St Eval near Wadebridge, Cornwall, at 10.20pm on 3 February 1944 on an anti-sub patrol in the Atlantic Ocean. At 8.11am on the morning of 4 February a signal was received from the aircraft “U Boat sighted”. This was in position 45.30N, 0700W in the Bay of Biscay area. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft and it did not return to base. It was presumed that the aircraft was shot down while attacking a U boat.

Crew: RAAF 416972 Flt Sgt J.O.Lewis. Navigator Bombaimer. RAAF 420791 FO Williams, N.J., Navigator. RAAF 422557 Flt Sgt S.G.Hill. Wireless Operator (Air). RAAF 422163 Flt Sgt E.J.Fowler. Wireless Operator (Air). RAF crew members Sgt Patey, Sgt Churchman, Sgt Howard, Flt Lt Bell, Sgt Lidgitt.

Following post war enquiries and investigations it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

28 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

420759 Flight Sergeant LEWIS, Victor Kingsbury

Source: NAA : A705, 166/24/405

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: L 7527 Radio call sign: LS – A Unit: 15 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster L 7527 of 15 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Mildenhall, Suffolk, at 2010 hours on 26 March 1944 to attack Essen. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF PO Marsh, T G Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Spicer, M C (Navigator) RAAF 420759 Flt Sgt Lewis, V K (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAF Sgt Newall, A R (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Bland, E A (Mid Upper Gunner) RCAF Sgt Brophey, B O Rear Gunner) RAF Sgt Dean, W H (Flight Engineer)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

29 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407104 Sergeant LEWIS, Vivian

Source: NAA: A705, 163/137/71 AWM 65 (3178)

Aircraft Type: Sunderland Serial number: W 4025 Radio call sign: Unit: 201 Sqn RAF

Summary: Sunderland W 2025 of 201 Sqn RAF was engaged on convoy escort duty in the North Atlantic on 31 July 1942, when it was shot down by a ship of the convoy in position 55.23N, 14.13W. At the time the weather and visibility was bad.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Tomley, M J RAF Flt Sgt Collins, J A RAF Sgt Williams, N RAF Sgt Bluck, W RAF Sgt Goodings, J R RAF Sgt Scrace, H RAAF 407101 Sgt Fort, C G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 407104 Sgt Lewis, V (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF PO Allen, J RAF Flt Lt Traill, J R RAF Flt Lt Wakefield, W H RAF Sgt Wheatley, P S

The bodies of Flt Sgt Tomley. Flt Sgt Collins and Sgt Williams (all RAF members) were recovered by a naval vessel and buried at sea. Sgt Wheatley (RAF) survived the crash and was rescued. The remaining members could not be found and they were recorded as having lost their lives at sea.

30 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407104 Sergeant LEWIS, Vivian

Source: NAA : A705, 166/24/233

Aircraft Type: Catalina Serial number: FP 240 Radio call sign: Unit: 131 Op Trg RAF

Summary: Catalina FP 240 of 131 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off from RAF Station Killades, near Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, on 22 November 1943 for a daylight operational flying exercise. Nothing was heard from FP240 after take off and it did not return to base.

There was no evidence to show why the aircraft failed to reach Bowmore, the water field for which it was bound. ASR searches were conducted but no trace was found of the missing aircraft or crew.

Crew: RAF FO Graves, F P (1st Pilot) RAF Sgt Anderson, R M (2nd Pilot) RAAF 418039 Flt Sgt Hodgkison, O D (Navigator Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Barnes, A D (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Sutherland, A (Fitter Mechanic Engines) RAF Sgt Morrison, F (Wireless Operator Mechanic) RAF Sgt Warder, A G (Wireless Operator) RAF Sgt Williams, J (Wireless Operator) RAF Flt Sgt Whitley, J (Wireless Operator) RAAF 426623 Sgt Ley, J G (Fitter Mechanic Airframe)

In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

31 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE. 423018 Flight Sergeant L'GREEN, Neville Alfred Source: AWM 237 (65) AWM 54 779/3/129 Part 27 NAA : A705, 166/24/627 Commonwealth War Graves record Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: HK 645 Radio call sign: OJ – R Unit: ATTD 149 SQN RAF Summary: Lancaster HK 645 of 149 (East India) Sqn RAF took off from RAF Methwold, Norfolk, at 1140 hours on 12 December 1944 to bomb Witten, West Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. Crew: RAF FO Dorey, E H S Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Laird (Flight Engineer) RAAF 426407 Flt Sgt D Wham, (Navigator Bombaimer) RAAF 427575 PO Walter, J R (Navigator Bombaimer) RAAF 423018 Flt Sgt N A L’Green, (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Taylor, (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Hunt (Air Gunner) Of the above crew, PO Walter (RAAF) and Sgt Laird (RAF) became POW’s. PO Walter survived the war. FO Dorey, Flt Sgt l’Green and Sgt Taylor (RAF) are listed as missing. German documents recorded that the bodies of Flt Sgt Wham and Flt Sgt L’Green (RAAF) were buried at Dortmund cemetery. However post war doubts emerged about the authenticity of German records for Dortmund Cemetery, and a thorough investigation was made. The remains of Flt Sgt Wham (RAAF) were located at Dortmund, and reinterred at Reichswald Forest British Military Cemetery. Also the graves of all Allied servicemen buried at Dortmund were reinterred at Reichswald Forest War Cemetery However as it was not possible to identify the remains of Flt Sgt L’Green (RAAF) and Sgt Hunt (RAF) they are recorded as having no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey UK. In a later POW report by the then FO Walter he stated “We were attacked by enemy fighters. The first burst started a fire in the starboard wing. The Pilot and Engineer were discussing the fire and the Captain stated he may have to abandon. All the crew acknowledged I. tried to jettison the bombs but found the electrical circuit apparently affected as the bombs would not go. The next attack put the port wing on fire, and there was no answering fire from the Rear Gunner as the turret was U/S. I hear the Rear Gunner cry out bur do not know what injuries he received. I was first to leave the aircraft at 20000 feet. I am certain the Captain, Engineer and Navigator were still in the aircraft but am not certain re the other three. The aircraft was under control but badly on fire. It exploded as the Engineer followed me out. He was brought to the same POW Camp as I was in at Dortmund. He stated that he had been taken to the aircraft and saw the bodies of Wham and Hunt, and a German interrogator hsd stated that L’Green’s body had been

32 found and identified but did not say where. I wsa captured as soon as I landed. Released by Russians 30/4/45 and repatriated UK 13/5/45”.. .

33 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

415668 Flight Sergeant LIGHTBODY, Robert Thomas

Source: NAA : A705, 166/24/397

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: JW 890 Radio call sign: Unit: 614 Sqn RAF

Summary: Halifax JW 890 of 614 Sqn RAF took off from Celone, Italy,at 11.11pm on 15 March 1944 to carry out a sortie against marshalling yards at Sofia. W/T silence was observed until 03.46 am on 16 March when the aircraft signalled its ETA at base of 04.10am. Nothing further was heard from JW 890 and it failed to return to base from the mission.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Jackson, D M (Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Templer, P W (Navigator) RAF Pridham, C F (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Lee, W (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Hearn, W F (Flight Engineer) RAAF 415668 Flt Sgt Lightbody, R T (Air Gunner)

The body of Sgt Templer was recovered from the sea near Termoli on 16 May wearing a parachute and Mae West. A thorough search of the Termoli district was made but no trace of the remaining missing crew members was found. In 1947 it was recorded that they had lost their lives at sea.

34 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

425326 Flight Sergeant LINDENBERG, Keith Rolard

Source: NAA: A705, 166/24/372

Aircraft Type: Stirling Serial number: EF 443 Radio call sign: Unit: 90 Sqn RAF

Summary: Stirling EF 443 of 90 Sqn RAF, took off at 1832 hours from RAF Station Tuddenham, near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, on the night of 28/29 January 1944 to carry out a mine laying operation in Kiel Bay, Germany. Nothing further was heard of the aircraft or crew after take off.

Crew: RAAF 420619 PO Greenwood, J D (Pilot) RAF Sgt Holland, G R (Navigator) RAF Sgt Seddon, J P (Air Bomber) RAAF 425326 Flt Sgt Lindenberg, K R (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Dooley, V (Mid-upper gunner) RAF Sgt Royston, G (Rear gunner) RAF Sgt Harding, K L (Flight Engineer)

In 1948 there being no trace of the aircraft or crew it was concluded the crew were lost at sea.

35 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

411109 Sergeant LINDSAY, David John

Source: NAA: A705, 163/138/113

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: ED 316 Radio call sign: Unit: 1656 Conversion RAF

Summary: Lancaster ED 316 of 1656 Conversion Unit, RAF, took off from RAF Station Lindholme, Yorkshire, at 1648 hours on the night of 17/18th January 1943 to attack Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RNZAF Flt Lt Hood, S D L, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 416110 FO Walter, K B (Navigator/Bombaimer) RAAF 401259 PO Weaving, K A C (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 411109 Sgt Lindsay, D J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, (A/B)) RAF Sgt Woodrow, H (Air Gunner) RAA 22643 Sgt Logue, S E (Air Gunner) RAAF 26117 Sgt Muller, H F (Flight Engineer)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

36 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400058 Sergeant LINDSAY, Edmund Mailer

Source: NAA : A705, 163/138/64

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: V 6291 Radio call sign: Unit: 55 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim V 6291 of 55 Sqn RAF on 13 December 1941, led a formation of 3 Blenheims on a low level attack on a merchant vessel in Navarin Harbour. V 6291 led to a point about 30 miles out to sea from Navarin. The formation then set course for Navarin, and despite poor visibility it made a perfect landfall at the harbour.

The merchant vessel was at the jetty and close to two destroyers around which the formation had to turn in order to carry out a beam attack against the merchant vessel. Light ack-ack was encountered as the aircraft entered the harbour and became more intense. No 2 aircraft was hit twice and No 3 once. V 6291 made the first attack and a successful get away. Nos 2 and 3 swung away in different directions after their attacks. V 9291 was not seen again and failed to return to base.

An indistinct W/T message at 1555 hours was thought to have come from V 6291 which would position the aircraft about 150 miles from base. Searches the next day found no trace of the missing aircraft or crew. It was thought that the aircraft may have crashed or been forced down shortly after leaving the target.

Crew: RAF Flt Lt Pelling, G (Pilot) RAF PO Strong, J H (Observer) RAAF 400058 Sgt Lindsay, E M (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Post war searches failed to locate any unidentified graves that might be connected with the missing crew.

37 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

410605 Flight Sergeant LINTON, Norman Royce

Source: NAA: A705, 166/24/139

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: BJ 963 Radio call sign: Unit: 27 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington BJ 963 of No 27 Operational Training Unit, RAF, took off from RAF Lichfield, Staffordshire, on a non operational cross country flight on 22 July 1943. The route was from Base – Shrewsbury – Van Bardsley Island – Studwals – Baggors Park – Base. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. It was presumed that the aircraft must have crashed at sea.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Clayton. RAF Flt Sgt Mack. RAAF 410382 Sgt H.J.Richardson, Observer. RAAF 410605 Flt Sgt N.R.Linton, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAAF 408418 Sgt A.J.H.Bock, Air Gunner.

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

38 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

411634 Flight Sergeant LISTER, Donald Sydney

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A 705, 166/32/91 Micro Film No 463 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: AM 564 Radio call sign: Unit: 500 Sqn RAF

Summary: On the evening of the 26th April1943, Hudson AM 564 was detailed to carry out a anti- submarine patrol over the Mediterranean in the vicinity of Cape Terres, Algeria. On the evening of the 26th April 1943, AM564 at approx 6.30pm, during a heavy rainstorm, an explosion was observed from the shore to take place in the aircraft, following which the aircraft crashed in the sea, eight miles north of Cape Terriss, Algeria.

Crew: RAAF 404968 PO Phillips, G A Captain (Pilot) RAAF 404480 Fli Sgt E A M Deignan, (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAAF 411634 Sgt D S Lister, (Wireless Air Gunner) RAF Sgt W F Swift, (Wireless Air Gunner)

All the crew were killed in the crash. PO Phillips, Flt Sgt Deignan and Sgt Swift are buried in the El Alia Cemetery, Algeria. The cemetery lles that 13kms south east of Algiers, on the road to El Harrash.

Sgt Lister has no known grave. His name is commemorated on the Malta Memorial, Malta. The Memorial is in the district of Floriana, and can be easily identified by the Golden Eagle which surmounts the column.

39 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

401070 Flight Sergeant LITTLEJOHN, Gordon Brefny

Source: NAA : A705, 163/138/114

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: BJ 961 Radio call sign: PH – T Unit: 12 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington BJ 961 of 12 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Binbrook at 0059 hours on 7 September 1942 to attack Duisberg, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 401070 Flt Sgt Littlejohn, G Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Marshall, G L (Navigator) RAAF 401575 Flt Sgt Marsden, S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Wilson, F H (Bomb Aimer) RCAF Sgt Carruthers, F R (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded that the missing crew had no known grave.

40 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

421540 Flight Sergeant LIVINGSTONE, David

Source: NAA : A705, 166/24/175

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: JA 914 Radio call sign: DX – O Unit: 57 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster JA 914 of 57 Sqn RAF took off at 0930 hours from RAF East Kirby, Lincolnshire, on 3 September 1943 to attack Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RCAF Flt Sgt Grindley, W Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Sutcliffe, A (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Carruthers, J T (Navigator) RCAF Sgt Porteous, H M (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Moore, A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Jones, H I (Air Gunner) RAAF 421540 Flt Sgt Livingstone, D (Air Gunner)

Post war examination of German documents revealed that the aircraft crashed near Zessen in the early hours of 4 September. Zessen is approx 30 miles south of Berlin. The remains of Sgts Sutcliffe and Jones (RAF), and Sgt Porteous (RCAF), were identified and are interred in the Heerstrasse British War Cemetery, Berlin.

The remaining 4 missing members are recorded as having no known grave.

41 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

433115 Flight Sergeant LOCKE, Reginald Kingsley

Source: NAA: A705, 166/25/283

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: LL 948 Radio call sign: ZN – V Unit: 106 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster LL948 of 106Sqn RAF took off from RAF Stn. Metheringham, Lincoln, UK at 1705hrs on the night of 14 March 1945 to bomb oil refineries at Lutzkendorf, about 30 miles west of Leipzig. The aircraft was one of fifteen Squadron aircraft detailed to attack the target. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft which did not return to base.

Crew member Sgt J. Hussey, (Rear Gunner) RAF, who survived the crash later reported: “the aircraft was on the return journey just south of Karlsthur not far from the Rhine, when hit by flak. The plane caught fire and flames spread rapidly with the plane breaking up. Hussey in the rear turret was able to exit the plane but believed the others did not have time to get out.”

Crew: RAAF 437109 FO Barrow, B E, Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Castle, H (Flight Engineer) RAF Flt Sgt Bedford, H (Navigator) RAAF 426544 WO Cossart, J B (Air Bomber) RAAF 433115 Flt Sgt Locke, R K (Wireless Operator) RAF Sgt Armstrong, G S (Mid-upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Hussey, J S (Rear gunner - survived)

42 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

22643 Flight Sergeant LOGUE, Stanley Ernest

Source: NAA: A705, 166/25/7

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: ED 316 Radio call sign: Unit: 1656 Conversion RAF

Summary: Lancaster ED 316 of 1656 Conversion Unit, RAF, took off from RAF Station Lindholme, Yorkshire, at 1648 hours on the night of 17/18th January 1943 to attack Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RNZAF Flt Lt Hood, S D L, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 416110 FO Walter, K B (Navigator/Bombaimer) RAAF 401259 PO Weaving, K A C (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 411109 Sgt Lindsay, D J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, (A/B)) RAF Sgt Woodrow, H (Air Gunner) RAAF 22643 Sgt Logue, S E (Air Gunner) RAAF 26117 Sgt Muller, H F (Flight Engineer)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

43 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404550 Flight Sergeant LONERGAN, Robert Neville

Source: NAA : A705, 163/139/119

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: Z 8428 Radio call sign: LQ – N Unit: 405 RCAF Sqn

Summary: Wellington Z 8428 of No 405 (Vancouver) Sqn RCAF, took off from RAF Station Pocklington, at 1945 hours on 10 March 1942 to carry out operations over Essen, Germany.

At 2325 hours an SOS was received from the aircraft and the Air Sea Rescue service was called out to carry out a search which was not successful.

Crew: RAAF 404453 FO Durbridge, R K, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 404550 Sgt Lonergan, R N (Pilot) RCAF Sgt Garnett, F C RCAF Sgt Broddy, J M RAF Sgt Wright, W RAF Sgt Tilley, G A

44 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

413622 Flight Sergeant LONGMORE, Kenneth William

Source: NAA : A705, 166/25/67

Aircraft Type: Stirling Serial number: EH 937 Radio call sign: WP – S Unit: 90 Sqn RAF

Summary: Stirling EH 937 of 90 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Wratting Common, Cambridgeshire, at 2037 hours on 23 August 1943 to carry out an attack on Berlin. The ETA back at base was 0330 hours on 24 August. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 413622 Flt Sgt Longmore, K W Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Purcell, C J (Navigator) RCAF Sgt Stormer, L M (Air Bomber) RAF Flt Sgt Weaver, V A (Wireless Operator) RAF Sgt Lloyd, A E (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Jeffreys, G G (Rear Gunner) RAF Sgt James, R L (Flight Engineer)

The bodies of 2 RAF members of the crew were late recovered from the sea at Zuider Zee, Holland.

45 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

406694 Sergeant LOONEY, Patrick Lawrence

Source: NAA : A705, 163/139/168

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: DV 723 Radio call sign: - H Unit: 26 Op Training RAF

Summary: We4llington DV 723 of No 26 Operational Training Unit RAF took off at 2019 hours on 16 September 1942 to attack Essen, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 406694 Sgt Looney, P L Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Clayton, M J (Observer) RAF Sgt Pate, J T (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Butler, A E W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Calcutt, C G (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

46 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

413624 Flight Sergeant LOVELLE-DRAPER, Adrian Mervyn

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/25/61 Commonwealth War Graves records. W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses Operational Training Units, page 243, Volume 7.

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: BJ 587 Radio call sign: Unit: 12 OP TRAINING RAF

Summary: Wellington BJ 587 No 12 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off from RAF Chipping Warden, near Banbury Cross, on the night of 18/19th August 1943 on a non operational “Bullseye” training exercise. The route was from Chipping Warden – Grantham – Londonderry -56.10N, 20.10W – Rothsay – Belfast – Douglas – Honeybourne – Chipping Warden. The aircraft did not return to base after the exercise.

Crew: RAAF 413624 Flt Sgt Lovelle-Draper, A M (Pilot) RAAF 422559 Sgt Hogan, A J (2nd Navigator) RAAF 417551 Sgt Worden, F E (Bomb Aimer) RAAF 415684 Sgt Russell, D (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt S W Wood RAF Sgt W D McDonald

The body of Sgt Russell (RAAF) was washed ashore at St Bees Head, and he is buried in the Chester (Bacon) Cemetery, UK. The body of Sgt Hogan (RAAF) was recovered from the sea at Port William, Widtownshire.and he is buried in the Newton Stewart Cemetery, Scotland. . It was recorded in 1949 that the remaining members of the crew had lost their lives at sea. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK

47 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

401349 Sergeant LOWE, Alan Craig

Source: NAA : A705, 163/139/114

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: DG 841 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 (O) Advanced Flying RAF

Summary: Anson DG 841 of No 2 (Operational) Advanced Flying RAF, on an operational training flight on 27 February 1942, was believed to have crashed into the sea about 25 miles south of the Isle of Man. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 401076 Sgt McCracken, G (Observer) RAAF 401349 Sgt Lowe, A C (Observer) RAF PO Carleton RAF Sgt Robinson.

In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

48 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

411503 Flight Sergeant LUCAS, Kenneth Tudor Rodwell

Source: NAA : A705, 166/25/54

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HE 756 Radio call sign: Unit: 37 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HE 756 of 37 Sqn RAF Middle East, took off from Kaircuan Tamarr at 2325 on 9 July 1943 to illuminate Syracuse between the hours of 0215 and 0245 on the 10th July in order for other Wellington aircraft of the squadron to attack the target. The aircraft carried fifty flares. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Other aircraft reported seeing an aircraft shot down over the target and since no other Wellington was missing on the night it appears possible that HE 756 was shot down.

Crew: RAF Sgt Ball, W L Captain (Pilot) RCAF Flt Sgt Tweedle, C M (2nd Pilot) RAF Sgt Lammin, J D (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAAF 411503 Flt Sgt Lucas, K T R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Williams, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Kerr, T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had no known grave.

49 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

406200 Sergeant LYNAS, James Neville

Source: NAA: A705, 163/140/68

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Z 7586 Radio call sign: Unit: 211 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim Z 7586 of 211 Sqn RAF was lost as a result of enemy action at approx 12.30pm on 6 February 1942. Three aircraft were operating on escort duty and two did not return (Z 7586 and Z 9713), and the third aircraft was shot down on the way back to Palembang. The escort duty was over a convoy from Berhala Straits to Banka Straits.

A survivor (Sgt Offard) from the third aircraft shot down, later stated that “he had seen one Blenheim on fire, but he did not know what happened to the second aircraft missing”.

Crew: RAAF 400823 Sgt A.T.Bott, Pilot. RAAF 404212 Sgt H.J.Lamond, Observer. RAAF 406200 Sgt J.N.Lynas, Air Gunner.

Following post war enquiries and investigations the search for the above missing crew was abandoned in 1950.

50 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

420751 Sergeant LYNCH, Allan Spencer

Source: NAA : A705, 166/25/46

Aircraft Type: Hampden Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 32 Op Training RCAF

Summary: A Hampden aircraft of No 32 Operational Training Unit, RCAF, took off at 5.15am on 14th June 1943 to carry out a navigational, bombing and firing exercise over the Pacific Ocean. The last message received from the aircraft was at 6am. The aircraft failed to return from the exercise. Five other aircraft took off on the same exercise at approx the same time, but all had returned to base about 6.45am due to bad weather.

The weather deteriorated further during the 14 June, and searches by aircraft could not take place until the 15 June. Naval vessels sighted some wreckage, and on 16 June wrecked parts of a Hampden aircraft were identified as belonging to the missing aircraft but no survivors were found.

Crew: RAAF 420751 Sgt Lynch, A S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 421626 Sgt Ritchie, E R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) No other crew details are recorded on the above file.

51 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405109 Sergeant LYNCH, William Douglas

Source: NAA : A705, 163/140/87

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Z 7517 Radio call sign: Unit: 14 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim Z 7517 of 14 Sqn RAF crashed 8 miles south of Landing Ground C10 whilst carrying out night landing practice on 14 June 1942. The cause of the crash is not known, but a report states that it is presumed the attention of the pilot was distracted by flares and searchlights which were brought into operation as a result of an air raid warning.

Crew: RAAF 407677 Sgt Highman, G F (Pilot) RAAF 405109 Sgt Lynch, W D (Observer) RAAF 407490 Sgt Carnie, W L (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war searches when the remains of the crew were not recovered from the graves in which they were buried in the desert, the search was abandoned in 1949 and it was recorded that the crew had no known grave.

52 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405080 Flight Sergeant MAC DONALD, Roderick Daniel

Source: NAA : A705, 163/141/703

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: ES 989 Radio call sign: Unit: 37 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington ES 989 of 37 Sqn RAF in company with other squadron aircraft was detailed to attack Tobruk on 7 September 1942. Nothing was heard from ES 989 after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RCAF WO Turner, S A Captain (Pilot) RCAF Flt Sgt Cameron, A B (2nd Pilot) RCAF WO Clements, R B (Observer) RAAF 405080 Flt Sgt MacDonald, R D (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Rawbone, G D (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt McIntyre, P (Air Gunner)

Following post war searches and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that no trace of the missing crew had been found.

53 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

432219 Sergeant MAC FARLANE, Murdo Donald Davidson

Source: NAA: A705, 166/26/431

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: LN 878 Radio call sign: Unit: 21 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington LN 878 of No 21 Operational Training Unit RAF took off from RAF Station Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, on a day cross country exercise on 24 April 1944. The last known position of the aircraft was a fix which placed LN 878 80 miles east of Hull. The aircraft failed to return to base after the exercise.

Subsequent reports show that the Wireless Operator had contacted numerous stations during the trip and was well up to his job. He would have taken correct action in distress had he had time. There was no evidence to show how the aircraft became lost. From the way the plot faded suddenly there is a strong possibility that it had been shot down by enemy fighters. Subsequent searches found no trace of the missing aircraft or crew.

Crew: RAAF 414456 Sgt J.G.Beilby, Pilot. RAAF 432219 Sgt M.D.D MacFarlane, Navigator. RAF Sgt J.M.Dunn, Air Bomber. RAAF 425885 Flt Sgt E.A.Naylor, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAF Sgt W.Lane, Air Gunner.

Following post war enquiries and investigations it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

54 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

413883 Flight Sergeant MAC LEOD, John Ralph

Source: NAA: A705, 166/26/313

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: LN 301 Radio call sign: Unit: 70 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington LN 301 of 70 Sqn RAF took off from Djedeida North landing ground, 15 miles north west of Tunis, at 1712 hours on 22 November 1943 to attack Ciampino drome, Italy. Messages were received from the aircraft at 9.44pm and 10.29pm when LN 301 requested a bearing and course to return. An identification message believed to have come from the aircraft at 11.15pm was received, but after that nothing further was heard, and the aircraft did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 413883 Flt Sgt MacLeod, J R Captain (Pilot) RAAF 420178 Flt Sgt Fraser, I L (2nd Pilot) RAF Sgt Hamilton, W (Navigator) RAAF 422648 Sgt Madden, J F (Observer) RAAF 415779 Flt Sgt Gillett, G G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 422401 Flt Sgt Buckman J A (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

55 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

409162 Flight Sergeant MACDONALD, Leonard Howell

Source: NAA : A705, 166/26/153

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: BK 843 Radio call sign: Unit: 27 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington BK 843 of No 27 Operational Training RAF, took off from RAF Station Lichfield, Staffordshire, at approx 1.50pm on 14 June 1943 to carry out a non operational flight over the North Sea. The route was Lichfield – Attenborough – 55.00N 00.00E – Drem – Alconbury – Cannock – Return to base.

At 4.30pm a 1st class fix of 281 deg was obtained, but thereafter nothing was heard from the aircraft and it failed to return to base.

Crew: RAAF 406977 Flt Sgt E.G. Holden. Pilot. RAAF 409542 Sgt R.A.Hatfield, Observer. RAAF 409162 Flt Sgt L.H.Macdonald, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAAF 408382 Flt Sgt T.A.Belot, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAAF 420141 Sgt P.L.Cashion. Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

56 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

420694 Flight Sergeant MACKRELL, Trevor

Source: NAA : A705, 166/26/453 AWM 65 (3293)

Aircraft Type: Marauder Serial number: FK 110 Radio call sign: Unit: 14 Sqn RAF

Summary: Marauder FK 110 of 14 Sqn RAF, British North African Forces, was detailed to carry out on 9 May 1944, a low level reconnaissance of enemy shipping in the vicinity of the Ionian Island off the coast of Greece in the South Adriatic Sea. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it failed to return from the mission. Subsequent ASR searches failed to find the aircraft or any survivors.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Ross, J (Pilot) RAF Sgt Green, W N (Pilot) RAAF 420511 Flt Sgt Woods, A (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAAF 420601 Flt Sgt Ryan, E J (Wireless Operator Air) RAAF 420694 Flt Sgt Mackrell, T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Flt Sgt Andrews, H G (Wireless Operator Air)

57 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404107 Sergeant MACLENNAN, Hugh Alexander

Source: NAA : A705, 163/141/511

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: R 3911 Radio call sign: Unit: 11 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim R 3911 of 11 Sqn RAF India, was detailed on 9 April 1942 to bomb enemy shipping. It was lost at approx 12 midday as a result of enemy action.

Crew: RAAF 404107 Sgt MacLennan, H A (Pilot) RAAF 408017 Sgt Travers, A R (Observer) RAAF 400120 Sgt Nell, F J G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

58 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

406167 Sergeant MACLIVER, Thomas Scott

Source: NAA: A705, 163/141/386

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: C 7510 Radio call sign: Unit: 45 Sqn RAF

Summary: Six Blenheim aircraft of 45 Sqn RAF including C 7510, took off on 19 November 1941 to carry out a cloud cover bombing raid on Sidi Rezegh aerodrome. Two aircraft including C 7510 failed to return. Four others reported unable to reach target on account of lack of cloud cover.

Crew: RAAF 407329 PO Magor, E A (Pilot) RAAF 406167 Sgt Macliver, T S (Air Observer) RAAF 406138 FO Cain, A J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)

In 1946 it was recorded that no trace of the missing crew could be found, and that the search had been abandoned.

59 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

401133 Warrant Officer MACLURE, Alan Campbell

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/144/173 Digitised Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Baltimore Serial number: AG 852 Radio call sign: Unit: ATTD 223 SQN RAF

Summary: Baltimore AG 852 of 223 Sqn RAF Middle East, was one of a formation of aircraft in an operation to bomb stores at Chazal Station on 2 November 1942. Over the target there was heavy ack-ack fire, and AG 852 was hit, blew up and seen to leave the formation going down in flames. One of the crew was seen to bale out, but it was impossible to state who it was. There was no further news of the aircraft or crew which did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 401133 Flt Sgt A C Maclure, (Pilot) RAAF 406400 Flt Sgt C S Middleton, (Observer) RAAF 407198 Flt Sgt C M Chenoweth, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 402006 Sgt T G Richards, (Air Gunner)

Flt Sgt Middleton is buried in the El Alamein War Cemetery, Egypt. The search for the graves of the remaining missing crew members was abandoned in 1946. They have no known grave and their names are commemorated on the Alamein Memorial, which is situated at the entrance to the El Alamein War Cemetery, Egypt. .

60 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

422648 Flight Sergeant MADDEN, John Francis

Source: NAA: A705, 166/27/301

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: LN 301 Radio call sign: Unit: 70 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington LN 301 of 70 Sqn RAF took off from Djedeida North landing ground, 15 miles north west of Tunis, at 1712 hours on 22 November 1943 to attack Ciampino drome, Italy. Messages were received from the aircraft at 9.44pm and 10.29pm when LN 301 requested a bearing and course to return. An identification message believed to have come from the aircraft at 11.15pm was received, but after that nothing further was heard, and the aircraft did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 413883 Flt Sgt MacLeod, J R Captain (Pilot) RAAF 420178 Flt Sgt Fraser, I L (2nd Pilot) RAF Sgt Hamilton, W (Navigator) RAAF 422648 Flt Sgt Madden, J F (Observer) RAAF 415779 Flt Sgt Gillett, G G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 422401 Flt Sgt Buckman J A (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

61 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

422214 Sergeant MADDRELL, George Webb

Source: NAA : A705, 166/27/140

Aircraft Type: Hampden Serial number: AN 100 Radio call sign: Unit: 32 Op Training RCAF

Summary: Hampden AN 100 of 32 Operational Training RCAF, took off at 1140 hours on 4 June 1943 for a navigational exercise over the sea. The aircraft received a WT signal at 1200 hours, but after that nothing was heard from AN 100 and it did not return to base after the exercise.

Searches later recovered some wreckage from AN 100 from the sea, but no trace of survivors was found.

Crew: RAF Sgt Baker, W F (Pilot) RAF Sgt Ralph, J (Navigator) RAAF 422214 Sgt Maddrell, G W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 418185 Sgt Senger, G C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

62 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407946 Sergeant MADGE, Raymond Corlett

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/104/102, 163/120/384 Commonwealth War Graves records. W R Chorley: RAF Bomber Command Losses Operational Training Units, 1940-1947, Page 101, Volume 7.

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: X 9682 Radio call sign: Unit: 27 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington X9682 of No 27 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off from Valley Anglesey, Wales, at night on 25 February 1942, on a cross country training flight. The aircraft was last heard from in the vicinity of Squires Gate, Wales, at 1056 pm when an SOS message was received over the Irish Sea between Valley and Liverpool. The aircraft did not return to base, and subsequent air/sea rescue searches found no trace of the missing aircraft or crew.

Crew: RAAF 406351 Sgt Dyson, D H (Pilot) RAAF 406335 Sgt Veal, C G (2nd Pilot) RAAF 402302 Sgt Hargrave, A P R (Observer) RAAF 404598 Sgt Parsons, S J R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 407946 Sgt Madge, R C (Air Gunner) RNZAF Sgt Hawkins, R G (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK.

63 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

420695 Warrant Officer MANNING, Charles Benjamin

Source: NAA : A705, 166/27/487

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: NB 805 Radio call sign: Unit: 172 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington NB 805 of 172 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Chivenor, near Barnstaple, Devon, at 2122 hours on 26 June 1944 to carry out an operational sortie in the area 15 miles either side of the line from the Schillies to Brest. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Sq Ldr Thompson,, R H Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Lewin, M (2nd Pilot) RAAF 420695 WO Manning, C B (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAF Flt Sgt Long, I G (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Flt Sgt Green, J W (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Wharton, R S D (Wireless Operator Air)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

64 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402826 Flight Sergeant MANTELL, John Martin

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/142/441 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Whitley Serial number: Z 9461 Radio call sign: Unit: 77 Sqn RAF

Summary: Whitley Z 9461 of 77 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Chivenor, Barnstaple, North Devon, on 13 August 1942 to carry out an anti sub patrol and an aircraft search. At 1917 a message was received from Z 9461 stating it was being attacked by 3 Arado enemy aircraft in position 48deg north, 7deg west, approx 100 miles west of Brest, France, in the Atlantic Ocean. Crews in a dinghy over which the Whitley was flying at the time of the attack and were later rescued reported seeing an explosion in the distance. Nothing further was heard from Z 9461 and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Lt Ralston, I Captain (Pilot) RCAF PO Smith, C E RAF Flt Sgt R G Martin, RAAF 402826 Flt Sgt Mantell, J M (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF PO Dawkins, G RAF Sgt S T White,

In 1950 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

65 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

428729 Flight Sergeant MARKETO, Miro Peter

Source: NAA : A705, 166/27/347

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: LN 515 Radio call sign: Unit: 150 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington LN 515 of 150 Sqn RAF, Central Mediterranean Forces, took off at 1717 hours on 23 January 1944 to bomb an aircraft factory at Maribor, north west Yugoslavia. The aircraft failed to return from this mission. Severe icing conditions were experienced by other aircraft on the same mission.

Crew: RAAF 417014 Flt Sgt Thyer, L J Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Walters, M F R (Navigator) RAF Sgt Cane, E G (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Williams, R (Air Bomber) RAAF 428729 Flt Sgt Marketo, M P (Air Gunner)

Following post war investigations and enquiries, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had no known grave.

66 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

401575 Flight Sergeant MARSDEN, Stanley

Source: NAA : A705, 163/142/452

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: BJ 961 Radio call sign: PH – T Unit: 12 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington BJ 961 of 12 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Binbrook at 0059 hours on 7 September 1942 to attack Duisberg, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 401070 Flt Sgt Littlejohn, G Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Marshall, G L (Navigator) RAAF 401575 Flt Sgt Marsden, S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Wilson, F H (Bomb Aimer) RCAF Sgt Carruthers, F R (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded that the missing crew had no known grave.

67 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

411504 Sergeant MARSH, Thomas

Source: NAA : A705, 163/142/363

Aircraft Type: Mitchell Serial number: 41-12462 Radio call sign: Unit: 13 Bomber Sqn Usaaf

Summary: Mitchell 41-12462 of No 13 Bomber Sqn USAAF departed Port Moresby on 23 May 1942 to bomb the Lae aerodrome, and was last seen off Salamau being attacked by two Zeros, and losing latitude over the water.

In a statement by Sgt Murphy (a survivor) he reported “After dropping its bombs over Lae drome, the aircraft was attacked by enemy fighters. It received a direct hit and the starboard engine was out. The aircraft fell away from the formation and the enemy continued to attack. The pilot decided to attempt landing on the water. This was successfully accomplished and the dinghy launched.

The enemy then strafed the raft. The Captain ordered the crew to separate. Until then all the crew were safe. Sgt Marsh swam away in the opposite direction to the other crew, and was not seen again. He does not think any of the other crew were hit and they called one another. The enemy aircraft circled and apparently signalled the position and he believes that Murphy and the other crew may have been taken prisoner”.

Crew: USAAF Lt Keel, Lt Reed, Sgt Benell, Sgt Murphy, Sgt Wilkins. RAAF 411504 Sgt Marsh, T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war searches and enquiries, no trace of Sgt Marsh (RAAF) was found.

68 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

409167 Flight Sergeant MARSHALL, James Wilfred

Source: NAA : A705, 166/27/291

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: DV 664 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 (C) Op Trg RAF

Summary: Wellington DV 664 o0f No 7 (C) Operational Training Unit RAF took off from RAF Limavady, County Derry, Northern Ireland, on 28 November 1943 to carry out non operational bombing practice. The aircraft was seen to bomb the target from a low level at 1220 hours, carry out a turn to starboard at about 200 feet, straighten out and then dive directly into the sea. It was considered that the aircraft had possibly stalled. There were strong winds and heavy seas at the time.

Crew: RAF PO Waite RAF Sgt Bennet, G A RAF FO Knight, J B RAAF 409167 Flt Sgt Marshall, J W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 414859 Flt Sgt Woods, L (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Stout, C A

The bodies of Flt Sgt Woods (RAAF) and Sgt Stout (RAF) were recovered from the sea, and in was recorded that the remaining missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

69 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405260 Sergeant MARTIN, Alfred Henry

Source: NAA : A705, 166/27/46

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: BK 160 Radio call sign: Unit: 12 Op Trg RAF

Summary: Wellington BK 160 of No 12 Operational Training Unit RAF, was detailed to drop pamphlets in the Orleans area, France. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after it took off at 1907 hours on 19 February 1943 from RAF Chipping Warden, near Banbury, Oxfordshire, and it did not return to base. Orleans is approx 72 miles south west on Paris.

Crew: RAAF 415090 Sgt Parkes, J E (Pilot) RAAF 405260 Sgt Martin, A H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF PO Sheppherd RAF Sgt York RAF Sgt Kee

Following post war investigations and enquiries it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had no known grave.

70 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

422221 Flight Sergeant MARTIN, Ian Errington

Source: NAA : A705, 166/27/462

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: BZ 818 Radio call sign: Unit: 53 Sqn RAF

Summary: Liberator BZ 818 of 53 Sqn RAF took off at 2130 hours from RAF Station, St Eval, Cornwall, on 13 June 1944, to carry out an anti-submarine patrol in support of major operations then in progress. A message was received from the aircraft late at night indicating that a submarine had probably been sighted and was about to attack. Nothing was subsequently heard from the aircraft which failed to return to base.

Crew: RAF Sqn Ldr Carmichael, DFC, Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Stevens, E E (2nd Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt McKeown, J T (1st Navigator) RAAF 408874 FO Peters, A O (2nd Navigator) RAF FO White, V R (Wireless Operator/Air) RAAF 422537 Flt Sgt Curner, R H (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 422425 Flt Sgt Campbell, K J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAF Flt Lt Shaw, J W (Air Gunner) RAAF 422221 Flt Sgt Martin, I E (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Lusher, V N (Flight Engineer)

With no trace of the missing aircraft or crew being found following post war enquiries and investigations, it was concluded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

71 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

430626 Flight Sergeant MARTIN, Kenneth Andrew

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/27/563, 166/5/692 Commonwealth War Graves records. W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses of the Second World War, Page 415, Volume 1944.

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: ME 838 Radio call sign: WP – D Unit: ATTD 90 SQN RAF

Summary: Lancaster ME 838 of 90 Sqn RAF Took off from RAF Tuddenham, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, on the night of 11/12th September 1944 detailed to carry out a mining operation in Stettin Bay, near Kristianstadt, Sweden. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF PO Perrett, A L Captain (Pilot) RAF FO Rose, G F (Navigator) RAF Flt Sgt Phillips, R C SW (Air Bomber) RAAF 427405 Flt Sgt Barrett-Lennard, F G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Noyes, F J (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 430626 Flt Sgt Martin, K A (Rear Gunner) RAF Sgt Thompson, P J (Flight Engineer)

It was presumed that the aircraft had crashed in the Baltic. The body of Flt Sgt Barrett-Lennard (RAAF) was recovered from the sea near Kristianstad, on the south east coast of Sweden, and buried at the Malmo Eastern Municipal Cemetery, Sweden. The city of Malmo is on the south west coast of Sweden opposite Copenhagen. The remaining missing crew members are recorded as having lost their lives at sea. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

72 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

406185 Sergeant MARTIN, Lionel Jeans

Source: NAA : A705, 163/142/315

Aircraft Type: Whitley Serial number: P 5051 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 (C) Op Training RAF

Summary: Whitley P 5051 of No 3 (C) Operational Training Unit RAF, took off from RAF Station Cranwell at 1027 hours on 13 March 1942 to carry out a navigational training exercise in the North Sea. Apart from an initial signal soon after take off, nothing further was heard from the aircraft and it failed to return to base.

Crew: RCAF PO Gorham, G R (1st Pilot) RCAF Sgt Evans, E S (2nd Pilot) RAAF 406185 Sgt Martin, L J (Observer) RAF Sgt Walker, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Bell (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea, and they have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede Surrey, UK.

73 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

424197 Flight Sergeant MASON, Lewis Harry

Source: NAA : A705, 166/27/494

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: FL 931 Radio call sign: Unit: 86 Sqn RAF

Summary: Liberator FL 931 of 86 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Tain, Ross-shire, Scotland, at 0255 hours on 26 June 1944 to carry out an anti-submarine patrol in the North Sea. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 411799 Fl Lt Moffitt, F D, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 434069 FO Whitby, S W (2nd Pilot) RAF FO Pearson, H (1st Navigator) RAAF 427942 Sgt Richardson, K I (2nd Navigator) RAAF 424197 Flt Sgt Mason, L H (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 419678 Sgt Williams, J G (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAF Flt Sgt O’Bierne (Wireless Operator/Air) RAF Sgt Leighton, G G (Wireless Operator Mechanic/Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Moffitt, I T (Flight Engineer)

With no trace of the missing aircraft or crew being found from post war investigations and enquiries, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew were lost at sea.

74 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

411931 Sergeant MASTERS, John Ross

Source: NAA : A705, 163/142/493

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: L 8613 Radio call sign: Unit: 54 Op Training RAF

Summary: Blenheim L 8613 of 54 Operational Training Unit RAF took off on 5 October 1942 on a non operational training flight together with Blenheim L 6788 to carry out camera gun astern attacks, with L 8613 being the target aircraft. L 6788 in making an attack at 1000 feet overshot the target aircraft, its starboard airscrew striking the underside fuselage of L 8613, causing the tail unit to tear away. Sgt Masters (RAAF) baled out and landed in the sea and was reported missing believed drowned. Sgt Gracey (RAF) was killed in the subsequent crash of the aircraft.

The Royal Observer Corps reported the approx position of the bale out parachute and aircraft were diverted to the scene of the accident as well as a lifeboat from Dunbar. There were heavy seas at the time.

Crew: RAAF 411931 Sgt Masters. J R (Pilot) RAF Sgt Gracey, J G (Observer)

In 1948 it was recorded that Sgt Masters had lost his life at sea.

75 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403940 Flight Sergeant MATHERS, James Bruce

Source: NAA : A705, 163/142/390

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: R 1162 Radio call sign: Unit: 27 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington R 1162 of No 27 Operational Training Unit, RAF, took off shortly before midnight on 25 June 11942, on a night operation against Bremen, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base. Other crews reported that the aircraft was possibly shot down over the target.

Crew: RCAF PO Lamb, T F Captain (Pilot) RAAF 405174 Sgt Cox, N H (Observer) RAAF 403940 Sgt Mathers. J B (Observer) RAAF 403786 Sgt Poynting, K H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 400442 Sgt Synnot, J M (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

76 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

410072 Warrant Officer MATHERS, Michael James

Source: NAA : A705, 166/27/790

Aircraft Type: Spitfire Serial number: EN 296 Radio call sign: Unit: 43 Sqn RAF

Summary: Spitfire EN 296 of 43 (China-British) Sqn RAF was one of four aircraft which took off at 0900 hours on 21 February 1945 on a dive bombing mission. Flying at 5000 feet over Lake Comacchio, Italy the formation led by Flt Lt King (RAF) observed 10 bursts of 40mm flak about 2 miles to the west.

Immediately after WO Mathers (White 3) peeled off and was heard by White 4 on R/T saying ‘I’ve had it’ or ‘It has had it’. The aircraft was seen to give off brown smoke which changed to a stream of white as the aircraft lost height and circled. When at 1500 feet a small burst of flame was seen but then went out. The white smoke continued and the aircraft appeared to be making for a sandbar.

The aircraft was still carrying one 500lb bomb when it hit the water of the lake and exploded some 20 yards from the sandbar at 0910 hours. The pilot was not seen to bale out.

Crew: RAAF 410072 WO Mathers, M J (Pilot)

It was later recorded that WO Mathers had lost his life at sea.

77 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

413628 Flight Sergeant MATHESON, Ross Henley

Source: NAA : A705, 166/27/279

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HZ 129 Radio call sign: Unit: 15 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington HZ 129 of No 15 Operational Training Unit RAF took off on 19 November 1943 from RAF Portreath for Gibraltar, in transit for North Africa. The aircraft failed to arrive at Gibraltar.

Crew: RAAF 413628 Flt Sgt Matheson, R H (Pilot) RAAF 419171 Flt Sgt Forbes, J R (Air Gunner) RAAF 423208 Flt Sgt Murray, J A McC (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Robinson, E A RAF Sgt Deveney, P J RAF Sgt Harris, L S RAF Sgt Smith, L T RAF Sgt Wooldridge, F J

78 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

412166 Sergeant MATTHEWS, William Roy

Source: NAA : A705, 166/27/52

Aircraft Type: Stirling Serial number: R 9279 Radio call sign: LS – J Unit: 15 Sqn RAF

Summary: Stirling R 7279 of 15 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station, Bourn, Cambridgeshire, at 1918 on 27 February 1943 to attack Cologne, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RCAF Fl Lt Harris, Y H Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Ashdown, R (2nd Pilot) RAF Sgt Rogers, P (Navigator) RAF Sgt Shaw, W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Jones H R (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Phillips, S (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 412166 Sgt Matthews, W R (Rear Gunner) RAF Sgt Wratten, J (Flight Engineer)

Following post war investigations and enquiries, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing crew had no known grave.

79 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402531 Warrant Officer MATTRESS, Charles Alfred

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/27/155 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HE 346 Radio call sign: AS – M Unit: ATTD 166 SQN RAF

Summary: Wellington HE346 of 166 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Kirmington, near Ulgeby, Lincolnshire, at 2338 hours on the night of 25/26th June 1943, being one of ten aircraft detailed to attack Gelsenkirchen, Germany. Crews reported visibility good with much fighter, ack-ack and searchlight opposition. Nothing was heard from HE346 after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 402531 WO Mattress, C A Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Mortimer, A (Navigator) RAF Sgt Priestley, J F (Bomb Aimer) RAF Sgt Parry, N R (Wireless Operator) RAF Sgt Ball, T (Air Gunner)

Following post war investigations and enquiries, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing crew had no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

80 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407294 Sergeant MCALLEN, William Albert

Source: NAA : A705, 163/141/381

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: L 7873 Radio call sign: LN – J Unit: 99 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington L 7893 of 99 (Madras Presidency) Sqn RAF, took off from RAF Waterbeach at 1720 hours on 15 November 1941 to bomb Emden, Germany. A signal was received from the aircraft at 2120 hours, but thereafter nothing was heard and the aircraft did not return to base.

Crew: RNZAF Sgt Patterson, T C RAF Sgt Hall, D E RAF Sgt Townsend, L R RAF Sgt Cooke. R R RCAF Sgt Dermody, B J RAAF 407294 Sgt McAllen, W A (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

81 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402093 Sergeant MCAULEY, Lindsay Edward

Source: NAA : A705, 163/141/512

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Z 9574 Radio call sign: Unit: 11 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim Z 9574 of 11 Sqn RAF (Indian Command), was ordered by Ops 222 Group to carry out operations against the Japanese fleet on the morning of 9 April 1942. Enemy fighters were encountered and neither the aircraft nor crew were seen since. They were missing believed killed.

Crew: RAF PO Knight, R O (Pilot) RAAF 406203 FO Evans, D H (Observer) RAAF 402093 Sgt Mcauley, A J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)

In 1948 it was concluded that the crew had lost their lives at sea.

82 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400418 Sergeant MCCALMAN, Ian Russell

Source: NAA : A705, 163/141/315

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: K 9763 Radio call sign: Unit: 40 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington K 9763 of 40 Sqn RAF was detailed to carry out on 2 November 1941, operations against Tripoli in the Middle East. The aircraft left RAF Luqa, Malta, and was due back at 2359 hours. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Sgt Colville, G D (Captain (Pilot) RAAF 400418 Sgt McCalman, I R (2nd Pilot) RAF Sgt Forth, H M (Navigator) RAF Sgt Spry, R D (1st Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Robson, P W (2nd Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Ackroyd, J T (Rear Gunner)

The bodies of Sgt Colville and Sgt Robson (RAF) are interred in the Tripoli Military Cemetery. In 1948 it was recorded that the remaining missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

83 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

420029 Flight Sergeant MCCARTHY, Vincent Alwyn

Source: NAA : A705, 166/26/374

Aircraft Type: Spitfire Serial number: BR 430 Radio call sign: Unit: 682 Sqn RAF

Summary: Spitfire BR 430 of 682 Sqn RAF took off from Tocra at 1330 hours on 14 February 1944 for a photo recce of two targets Candia and Pirasus. In view of the fact that strong winds were forecast BR 430 was instructed to turn back to Tocra at 1545 hours irrespective of the photo cover up to then. The aircraft was correctly on track to Candia at 1412 hours and 164 miles from base. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft after that and it did not return to base. At 1720 hours with the aircraft overdue, air sea rescue action was initiated but no trace of the missing aircraft or pilot was found. No distress calls were received from the aircraft.

Crew: RAAF 420029 Flt Sgt McCarthy, V A (Pilot)

In 1949 it was recorded that the missing pilot had lost his life at sea.

84 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407560 Warrant Officer MCCORD, Donald Arthur

Source: NAA : A705, 166/26/276

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HZ 603 Radio call sign: Unit: 38 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HZ 603 of 38 Sqn RAF Middle East, took off from Nicosia at 1827C hours on 27 October 1943 to carry out an offensive operation in the Aegean Sea, and then return to Berga 111. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Dubery, C D Captain (Pilot) SAAF Lt Garlick, G L (2nd Pilot) RAF FO Walton, D R (Navigator) RAAF 407651 Flt Sgt Slade, A B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 406324 Flt Sgt Barnes, V S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 407560 WO McCord, D A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

85 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

401076 Sergeant MCCRACKEN, Greig

Source: NAA : A705, 163/141/480

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: DG 841 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 (G) Advanced Flying RAF

Summary: Anson DG 841 of No 2 (Operational) Advanced Flying RAF, on an operational training flight on 27 February 1942, was believed to have crashed into the sea about 25 miles south of the Isle of Man. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 401076 Sgt McCracken, G (Observer) RAAF 401349 Sgt Lowe, A C (Observer) RAF PO Carleton RAF Sgt Robinson.

In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

86 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

417587 Flight Sergeant MCCULLOCH, Robert William

Source: NAA : A705, 166/26/738

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: EV 942 Radio call sign: Unit: 354 Sqn RAF

Summary: Liberator EV 942 of 354 Sqn RAF took off on 30 December 1944 on an anti U Boat patrol in the Indian area. It was last plotted off the south east coast of Ceylon in position 6.59N, 82.12E, when the aircraft was flying over the sea. The aircraft failed to return to base from the mission.

Crew: RCAF FO Manyluk, W A Captain (Pilot) RAAF 417587 Flt Sgt McCulloch, R W (Pilot) RCAF PO Maika, P J (Navigator Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Welburn, J K (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 429018 Flt Sgt Robinson, A W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 434942 Flt Sgt Gordon, M J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 15279 Flt Sgt Cain, L (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Sutcliffe, J (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and searches it was recorded in 1946 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

87 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402004 Sergeant MCCULLOUGH, Joseph Michael

Source: NAA : A9301, Barcode 5538274

Aircraft Type: Tomahawk Serial number: AK 554 Radio call sign: Unit: 250 Sqn RAF

Summary: Tomahawk AK 554 of No 250 (Sudan) Sqn RAF was one of a formation of aircraft detailed to patrol over shipping off Sidi Barrani on 18 August 1941. The formation was engaged in combat with enemy aircraft and a simultaneous attack by two ME 109’s caused one of the aircraft to burst into flames and it was last seen losing height and about 1000 feet off the water. On return of the formation AK 554 flown by Sgt McCullough was the only aircraft of the Squadron that did not returned from this patrol.

Crew: RAAF 402004 Sgt McCullough, J M (Pilot)

88 yRAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

420978 Sergeant MCDONAGH, John Henry William

Source: NAA : A705, 166/13/22 Commonwealth War Graves records W R Chorley :RAF Bomber Command Losses of the Second World War 1940-1947, Page 207, Volume 7.

A ircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: DV 914 Radio call sign: Unit: 20 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington DV 914 of No 20 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off on 12 March 1943 on an operational training flight between the Mull of Kintyre and Scarpa Island, West Scotland. The route was Base – Tiree – Mull of Kintyre – Scarpa – Base. No signals were received from the aircraft and it failed to return to base from the exercise. An aircraft was seen by ASR launches exercising in the vicinity of the Island of Tiree to spin into the sea from a height of 10000 feet. It was also separately reported that an RAF Corporal and a civilian had seen an aircraft crash into the sea off the West coast of Scotland and this was considered by the unit to be DV 914.

Crew: RAF Sgt Morris, G E (Pilot) RAAF 414371 Sgt Wright, S R (Navigator) RAAF 414548 Sgt Fitzerald, P J (2nd Navigator) RAAF 420978 Sgt McDonagh, J H W(Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Robinson, T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 412744 Sgt Stockbridge, H S (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK.

89 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400351 Sergeant MCDONALD, Kenneth Stewart

Source: NAA : A705, 163/141/648

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HX 364 Radio call sign: Unit: 70 Sqn RAF Summary: Wellington HX 364 of 70 Sqn RAF failed to return from an operational mission in the Middle East on the night of 27/28th July 1942. Crew: RAF Sgt Osborne, H S Captain (Pilot) RAAF 400709 Sgt Hearn, R M (2nd Pilot) RAAF 404511 WO Osborn, R E S (Observer) RAAF 400351 Sgt McDonald, K S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 404635 Flt Sgt Jones, E A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Hatch, B K (Air Gunner)

In a later statement by WO Osborn (RAAF) who survived and became a POW he reported “The aircraft was shot down on the night of 27/28th July 1942 by flak over Tobruk and crashed about 50 miles south of Tobruk. No member of the crew was injured, and it was attempted to make our way back. We had covered about 100 miles, and were forced to give up through lack of food and water. We were picked up and taken to Mersa Matruh and interrogated. Then transported to Benghazi arriving at a POW camp on 8 August 1942.

We left Benghazi on 15 August 1942, and five members were placed on an Italian vessel Lionbixo, with Sgt Hearn being on another vessel. Three of us were placed in the bottom of the front hold, and the other two in middle section of the same hold. The vessel was sunk by a British submarine off an island south of Greece when it was hit by two torpedoes about 4pm on the 17 August 1942. One torpedo entered the bottom section of the hold and the other hit the engine room. The front half filled with water. The ship was towed to port on the east coast of Greece.

WO Osborn (RAAF) was injured but he stated that Sgt Hatch (RAF) had lost his life in the explosion. Also he had not seen or heard of Sgt McDonald (RAAF) or Flt Sgt Jones (RAAF) since the explosion and he assumed they were drowned or had lost their lives in the explosion. Sgt Osborne (RAF) was also injured in the explosion.

90 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404298 Sergeant MCDONALD, Malcolm Dalton

Source: NAA : A705, 163/141/520

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 211 Sqn RAF

Summary: In a letter from RAAF London, it was reported that Flt Lt Stewart was classified as missing near Java on 21 February 1942. He was a member of a crew of Sgt Burrage which left Kiladjati, Java, in a Blenheim aircraft of 211 Sqn RAF to raid shipping in the river near Palembang.

The crews of other aircraft engaged on the same raid stated that the formation ran into a heavy storm before reaching Sumatra and was split up. Independent attacks were carried out but nothing was seen or heard of Sgt Burrage’s aircraft after the formation parted company.

Crew: RAAF 400643 Sgt Burrage, J A (Pilot) RAAF 400545 Flt Lt Stewart, D McL (Observer) RAAF 404298 Sgt McDonald, M D (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)

91 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

418760 Sergeant MCDONALD, William Harold

Source: NAA : A705, 166/26/226

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: BJ 967 Radio call sign: Unit: 29 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington BJ 967 of No 29 Operational Training Unit, RAF took off from RAF Bruntingthorpe on 30 August 1943 to bomb an ammunition dump near St Omer, France. The aircraft failed to return to base from the mission.

Crew: RAF Sgt Wildner, A T (Pupil Pilot) RAF Sgt Trotter, A B (Navigator) RAF Sgt Scott, J (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Raggatt, A W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 418760 Sgt McDonald, W H (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Oakes, A J (Air Gunner)

The pilot Sgt Wildner survived the crash and later reported “The starboard engine caught fire when the aircraft was returning from the target. The fire was extinguished by graviner. I feathered the prop and headed for home. The aircraft lost height and I had no time to order the crew to ditching stations The aircraft crashed into the water on the second touch down and crash landed in the water, the starboard wing striking a wave. The aircraft broke up and sank immediately. The pilot found himself in the water near the dinghy. He climbed in and was later rescued by a Walrus. He believed all the other crew lost their lives at sea.”

The crash position was in the sea off Newhaven. Naval vessels recovered the body of Sgt Trotter (RAF) and his body was buried at sea. The remaining 4 missing crew members lost their lives at sea.

92 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

428340 Flight Sergeant MCDONELL, Jack James Lewis

Source: NAA : A705, 166/26/770

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: PB 636 Radio call sign: P4 – D Unit: 153 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster PB 636 of 153 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Scampton, Lincoln, on 22 January 1945 to bomb Duisberg, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Lt Jones, DFC. RAF Sgt S.S.James. RAAF 428340 Flt Sgt J.J.L.McDonell, Navigator Bombaimer. RAF Flt Sgt C.L.Cullen. RAAF 424283 WO J.E.Bateup, Wireless Operator (Air). RAF Sgt R.V.Trafford. RAF Sgt A.Simpson.

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing crew had no known grave.

93 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

38449 Flight Sergeant MCDONOUGH, Frederick Noel

Source: NAA : A705, 166/26/458

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: LL 894 Radio call sign: CF – T Unit: 625 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster LL 894 of 625 Sqn RAF too off from RAF Kelstern, near Louth, Lincolnshire, at 2208 hours on 15 May 1944 to carry out a mission on Kiel Bay Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF PO Beadle, Captain (Pilot) RCAF FO Merrall, W R (Navigator) RAF Sgt Wilkinson, E (Wireless Operator Air) RCAF Sgt Lawson, H R (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Dix, A T (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Potter, J (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 38449 Flt Sgt McDonough, F N (Rear Gunner)

The body of Sgt Dix (RAF) was washed ashore on the Danish coast, and he is interred in the Fourfeldt Cemetery, Esbjerg, located on the west coast of Denmark. It was recorded in 1949 that the remaining missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

94 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405060 Sergeant MCDOWALL, Robert Graham

Source: NAA : A705, 163/141/694

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Z 7847 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim Z 7847 of 8 Sqn RAF was detailed to carry out an convoy escort patrol on 4 September 1942, forty miles distant from its base in the Middle East. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. The weather conditions were good, but later aircraft on the same escort mission reported large areas of cloud with a base down to 100 feet.

Crew: RAAF 404834 Sgt Williams, A S (Pilot) RAAF 405060 Sgt McDowall, R G (Observer) RAAF 406299 Sgt Green, G F (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

95 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

424303 Flight Sergeant MCFADDEN, Oscar Patrick

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/26/469 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: LL 916 Radio call sign: AS – X Unit: ATTD 166 SQN RAF

Summary: Lancaster LL 916 of 166 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Kirmington, Lincolnshire, at 0005 hours on the night of 27/28th May 1944, being one of twenty aircraft detailed to attack Aachen, Germany. Crews reported that opposition from air defences was fairly intense with heavy flak and considerable fighter activity. There were nine sightings of enemy aircraft reported two of which developed into combat. Nothing was heard from LL 916 after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF WO Mander, F A Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Evans, H J (Flight Engineer) RAF Flt Sgt Newell, V L J (Navigator) RCAF Flt Sgt Overend, G J (Air Bomber) RAAF 424303 Flt Sgt McFadden, O P (Wireless Operator Air) RAF FO White, B A (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF WO Shaw, H (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

96 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

10809 Flight Sergeant MCFARLANE, Alfred Hector

Source: NAA : A705, 166/26/211

Aircraft Type: Beaufighter Serial number: JM 221 Radio call sign: Unit: 9 (C) OpL Trg RAF

Summary: Beaufighter JM 221 of No 9 (C) Operational Training Unit RAF took off on 16 August 1943, in company with a number of other aircraft, to carry out a night navigational exercise over the northern portion of the Irish Sea. The route was from Crosby-on-Eden, Cumberland, to Point of Ayr – Isle of Man- and return to Crosby-on-Eden. JM 221 failed to return to base. Searches failed to find any trace of the missing aircraft or crew.

Crew: RAAF 10809 Flt Sgt McFarlane, A H (Pilot) RAF Sgt McGinnnity, G (Navigator)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

97 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

420980 Flight Sergeant MCGILVRAY, George Alphonsus

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/3/166 Micro Film No463 OAFH Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HF 194 Radio call sign: Unit: ATTD 179 SQN RAF

Summary: Wellington HF 194 of 179 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station North Front, Gibraltar, on the evening of 16 January 1944, to carry out an anti-sub patrol in the vicinity of Cape St Vincent. The aircraft was due back at 8am the next day, but it did not return to base. Extensive searches were carried out but no trace of the missing aircraft or crew were found. This was the first operational trip for the newly formed crew.

Crew: RCAF PO McNeil, W Y Captain (Pilot) RAAF 420980 Flt Sgt G.A.McGilvray, (Pilot). RCAF Flt Sgt P W H Crickmay, (Navigator) RAAF 416856 Flt Sgt S.R.Hore, (Wireless Air Gunner). RAAF 422529 Flt Sgt R.D.Anthony, (Wireless Air Gunner. RAAF 425577 Flt Sgt T.M.Andersen, (Wireless Air Gunner)

All the crew have no known grave and their names are commemorated on the Malta Memorial, Malta. The Malta Memorial is situated in an area of Floriana and is easily identified by the Golden Eagle which surmounts the column. .

98 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402386 Sergeant MCGOWAN, Hunter Rutledge

Source: NAA : A705, 163/141/730

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Z 7418 Radio call sign: Unit: 224 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim Z 7418 of 224 Sqn RAF took off at 0630 hours from Sharjah on the 17 September 1942, to carry out an anti sub patrol in the Gulf of Oman. At 0814 the aircraft called requesting its signal strength and acknowledged the reply. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft and it did not return to base.

Extensive searches were carried out until 26 September by aircraft and surface craft. Only small pieces of wreckage and evidence of fire was found, but no trace of any survivors.

Crew: RAAF 402386 Sgt McGowan, H R (Pilot) RAF PO Pontious, A H (Observer) RAF Sgt Jenny, A H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

In 1948 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

99 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

428401 Flight Sergeant MCGUIGAN, John Harrie

Source: NAA : A705, 166/26/878

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: PB 374 Radio call sign: EA – N Unit: 49 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster PB 374 of 49 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Fulbeck, near Grantham, Lincolnshire, at 1826 hours on 8 April 1945 to bomb Lutdzkendorf, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF FO Cluer, R Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Lipp, (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Jackson, (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAAF 428401 Flt Sgt McGuigan, J H (Wireless Operator Air) RCAF FO McKay, (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt MacLennan (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Flt Sgt Wilkins (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

100 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400353 Sergeant MCKEAN, Harold Gregory

Source: NAA : A705, 163/141/468

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: X 9830 Radio call sign: Unit: 150 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington X 9830 of 150 Sqn RAF took off at 2004 hours on 21 February, 1942, from RAF Station Snaith, Yorkshire, being one of 12 aircraft detailed to attack Darmstadt, Germany. The weather conditions were good. The aircraft did not return to base and efforts to trace the missing aircraft and crew after the war were unsuccessful.

Crew: RAF PO Green, Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Jobling (2nd Pilot) RAAF 404092 FO Courtney, J G (Observer) RAF Sgt Fiske (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Evans (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 400353 Sgt McKean H G (Air Gunner)

101 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400061 Sergeant MCKELL, David Alcorn

Source: NAA : A705, 163/141/389

Aircraft Type: Maryland Serial number: LB 427 Radio call sign: Unit: Mediterranean Command Me Sqn RAF

Summary: Maryland LB 427 took off from Ta Kali drome, Malta at 1304 hours on 24 November 1941 to carry out a sea patrol. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Sgt Hutt, J K (Pilot) RAF Sgt Batchelor, H B (Observer) RAAF 400061 Sgt McKell, D A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

It was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

102 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403201 Sergeant MCKENDRICK, Fletcher

Source: NAA : A705, 166/26/1

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: AM 689 Radio call sign: Unit: 500 Sqn RAF

Summary: Hudson AM 689 of 500 (County of Kent) Sqn RAF took off at 0900 hours on 27 February 1942 to carry out an anti-sub patrol. Its ETA back at base was 1530 hours. When the aircraft became overdue aircraft searches were conducted for several days but no trace of the missing aircraft or crew were found.

Crew: RAAF 403201 Sgt McKendrick, F (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF FO Arian RAF Sgt Southcott RAF Sgt Walker

In 1948 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

103 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402387 Sergeant MCLEAN, Alan Maxwell

Source: NAA : A705, 163/141/349

Aircraft Type: Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 215 Sqn RAF

Summary: A Wellington of 215 Sqn RAF on an operational flight on 10 June 1942, was destroyed by an explosion 4 miles south east of Chafaagoan, India.

Crew: RAAF 402387 Sgt A.M. McLean, Pilot. RAAF 404549 Sgt A.C.Honeyman, 2nd Pilot. RAAF 400321 PO Gregory, G.R., Observer. RAAF 4044428 Sgt L.M.Bensted, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAF Sgt G.W.Hill, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAF Sgt G.L.G.Fuller, Air Gunner.

It was reported that the remains of PO Gregory and other crew members were buried with full military honours by local police in three graves, with further remains buried in one grave. All graves were subsequently covered by flood waters and no marking or removal of remains to cemetery was impossible due to remoteness of location.

In a 1948 report it was stated that after searching no trace of the graves could be found, and the remains could not be located for transfer to a British Military cemetery.

Chafaagoan which is 52 miles north of Dacca, is in a remote locality and subject to flooding from the Brahmaputra river.

104 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404112 Sergeant MCLEAN, Oliver Wiley

Source: NAA : A9301, Barcode 5533768 RAF Bomber Command losses in WW2 by W.R.Chorley, page 86, 1941 Vol 1941

Aircraft Type: Whitley Serial number: Z 6555 Radio call sign: EY - Unit: 78 Sqn RAF

Summary: Whitley Z 6555 of No 78 Sqn RAF took off at 2303 hours on 8 July 1941 from RAF Station Middleton St George, to bomb Hamm, Germany. The last message was received from the aircraft at 3.30am on 9 July 1941, then nothing further was heard from Z 6555 and it failed to return to base, The aircraft was reported to have crashed in the North Sea.

Crew: RAAF 404112 Sgt McLean, O W Captain (Pilot) RCAF Sgt Martin, C Mack RAF PO Mountain, H H RAF Sgt Noddle, K RAF Sgt Byrne, L

It was late established that Sgt Noddle (RAF) was buried in the Kirkeby Cemetery on the Danish Island of Romo, and the names of the other missing members of the crew commemorated on the Runneymede Memorial.

105 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

426666 Flight Sergeant MCLEAN, Robert Hudson

Source: NAA : A705, 166/26/559

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: ND 331 Radio call sign: ZN – G Unit: 106 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster ND 331 of 106 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Metheringham, Lincolnshire, at 2040 hours on 29 August 1944 to bomb Konigsberg, Germany. The aircraft was one of eighteen squadron aircraft on the mission. Nothing was heard from ND 331 after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF FO Boivin, L C W Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Bell, S (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Bryson, W S (Navigator) RAF Flt Sgt Nicol, J P (Air Bomber) RAAF 426666 Flt Sgt McLean, R H (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Parker, G E L (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Hargill, A (Rear Gunner)

Post war examination of German documents established that the aircraft crashed on 30 August in the vicinity of Gut Tarpienen, approx 12 miles north east of Neuhausen, near Koningsberg in East Prussia.

Both Sgt Bell and Flt Sgt Nicol (RAF) became POW’s. The remains of two RAF members and one unidentified were interred in the New Cemetery, Neuhausen, but it was not possible for investigating teams to visit the area which was the Russian controlled zone of occupation to verify the position. The five missing members are recorded as having no known grave.

106 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404056 Flight Sergeant MCMANUS, Ian Frank

Source: NAA : A 705, 163/141/235

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: X 3179 Radio call sign: - U Unit: 20 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington X 3179 of No 20 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off from RAF Edgehill drome at 2229 hours on 25 June 1942 to bomb Bremen, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 404056 Flt Sgt McManus, I F Captain (Pilot) RAF WO Simpkin, J G (Observer) RAF Flt Sgt Cross, P (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt O’Quinn, P A (Front Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Poulton, N P (Rear Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

107 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403873 Sergeant MCPHERSON, Cameron Charles

Source: NAA : A705, 163/141/647

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HF 844 Radio call sign: Unit: 108 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HF 844 of 108 Sqn RAF took off at 1750 hours on 25 July 1942 from Advanced Base IG 86. It later took off froman Advanced Landing Ground at 2152 hours to carry out a night raid on Heraklion, an island to the south east of Greece. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. The opposition encountered at Heraklion was fairly severe.

Certain lights were reported by other aircraft as being green verey lights fired up from the sea in a position 100 miles from the Egyptian coast and on track. It was considered unlikely that it would be from a crew in a dinghy. ASR searches failed to find any trace of the missing aircraft or crew.

Crew: RAF PO Clement, O H Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Smith, D (2nd Pilot) RAF PO Russell, H M (Navigator) RAAF 405103 Sgt Wilson, J L (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 403873 Sgt McPherson, C C (Front Gunner) RAF Sgt Condron, R G (Rear Gunner)

108 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

412024 Flight Sergeant MCQUADE, Victor Carl

Source: NAA : A705, 166/26/154

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: BJ 672 Radio call sign: Unit: 27 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington BJ 672 of No 27 Operational Training Unit RAF took off from RAF Station Lichfield, Staffordshire, at 1136 am on a non operational flight over the North Sea on 14 June 1943. Communications were received from the aircraft at 1141am and 1224pm when the aircraft was near Boston, Lincolnshire on the outward journey. No other messages were received and BJ 672 failed to return to base.

Crew: RAAF 15851 Flt Sgt W.D.Weir, Pilot RAAF 412024 Sgt V.C.Mcquade, Observer. RAAF 413373 Flt Sgt G.H.Gray, Observer. RAAF 410327 Sgt R.McL.Grieve, Wireless Operator Air Gunner RAAF 412602 Sgt J.S.Lee, Air Gunner.

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

109 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

408014 Sergeant MCQUITTY, William Morrison

Source: NAA : A705, 163/141/293

Aircraft Type: Whitley Serial number: T 4209 Radio call sign: EY – W Unit: 78 Sqn RAF

Summary: Whitley T 24209 took off from RAF Station Middleton St George, County Durham, at 2300 hours on 8 July 1941 to attack Hamm, Germany.

Crew : RAAF 408014 Sgt McQuitty, W M (Pilot) RAF PO Scott, E A (Pilot) RAF Sgt Haffenden, J P (Observer) RAF Sgt Clow, D T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Forster, W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

In a later statement by the sole survivor, Sgt Haffenden (RAF) he reported : When over the target, heavy flak broke the nose perspex, and later flak fire put the starboard engine out of action. The aircraft set course for base with the pitot head shot away. Immediately after crossing the coast at Texel, T 4209 was attacked by two ME 110’s at 0300 hours on 9 July. After being followed for 5 minutes the Air Gunner put in a long burst into an enemy aircraft and it went into a steep dive.

Sometime later the aircraft lost height to 400 feet, and with the other engine cut out due to overheating, the aircraft crashed into the sea at 0429 hours. The crew got into the dinghy which was inflated, but it immediately became water logged. Sgt Haffenden (RAF) swam ashore to the English coast some 8/9 miles, walked two miles to the Coast Guard station to raise the alarm, and was taken to Bircham Newton.

Subsequent searches failed to reveal any trace of the other missing crew members other than that of Sgt Foster (RAF) whose body was washed ashore on the 9th July. On 20 July the body of PO Scott (RAF) was found and was interred in England. It was later recorded that the remaining missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

110 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

412563 Sergeant MCROBERTS, Bruce Oliver Kingsley

Source: NAA : A705, 163/141/808

Aircraft Type: Spitfire Serial number: P 8692 Radio call sign: Unit: 53 Op Training RAF

Summary: Spitfire P 8692 flown by Sgt McRoberts on a training flight on 3 November 1942, was last seen at 1140 hours approx one mile south of Llandough near Cardiff, Wales. The weather at the time was fair with a slight ground haze. When last seen the aircraft which was one of four Spitfires flying in formation did not appear in difficulties.

The formation led by the instructor in charge of the practice was proceeding towards the coast and entered cloud at 3000 feet. Whilst climbing through the cloud P 8692 was observed to become unsteady and lose height. When the other aircraft emerged from the cloud, P 8692 was not seen and attempts at RT communication were unsuccessful.

Crew: RAAF 412563 Sgt McRoberts, B O K (Pilot)

In 1949 it was recorded that Sgt McRoberts had lost his life at sea.

111 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

425345 Flight Sergeant MCROSTIE, Herbert

Source: NAA : A705, 166/26/477

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: JP 167 Radio call sign: Unit: 58 Sqn RAF

Summary: Halifax JP 167 of 58 Sqn RAF took off from RAF St Davids, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, at 2135 hours on 10 June 1944 to carry out an anti submarine patrol south of the Brest peninsular. The last signal received from the aircraft was at 0022 hours on the 11 June. Nothing further was heard and the aircraft did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Lt Hopkin-Hill, J J Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Wiles, E (2nd Pilot) RAF Flt Lt Ash, C G (Navigator) RAF Sgt Farquarson, W (Flight Engineer) RAAF 425345 Flt Sgt McRostie, H (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Preston, T B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Douglas, P H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Chadwick, (Wireless Operator M/Air Gunner)

It was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

112 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405094 Sergeant MEARS, Ashleigh Thomas

Source: NAA : A705, 163/143/102

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: R 5639 Radio call sign: VN - Unit: 50 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster R 5639 of 50 Sqn RAF Took off from RAF Station Swinderby, at 2135 hours on 17 August 1942 to attack Osnebruk, Germany. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF FO Bunbury, J S, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 400476 FO MacDonald, A G (Navigator) RAF Sgt Mitchell, S R (Air Bomber) RAAF 405094 Sgt Mears, A T (Wireless Operator/Air) RAF Sgt Gallagher, M P (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Simpson, P (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Phillips, G (Rear Gunner)

Following extensive searches and enquiries by the Missing Research and Enquiry service which failed to find any trace of the missing aircraft or crew, in 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had no known grave.

113 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405758 Flight Sergeant MELLERSH, John Hubert

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/143/94 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Sunderland Serial number: DD 839 Radio call sign: Unit: 4 (C) Op Training RAF

Summary: Sunderland DD 839 of No 4 (C) Operational Training Unit, RAF, on 27 November 1943, detailed to carry out a night flying practice non-operational flight, crashed at 1930 hours, whilst landing in Cromarty Firth, at Alness, Ross Shire, Scotland. The crash was considered to be an error of judgement by the Pilot.

Crew: RAAF 421266 FO Gloor, A V (Pilot) RAAF 416342 Flt Sgt Jorgensen, D M (Pilot) RAAF 405758 Flt Sgt Mellersh, J H (Observer) RAAF 410219 FO Davidson, G H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 425290 FO Evers, A E (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 419924 Sgt Bell, A F (Air Gunner) RAAF 427042 Sgt Patterson, R G (Air Gunner) RAF Flt Sgt Wilson, H J

Both FO Davidson and Sgt Bell (RAAF) are buried in the Rosskeen Parish Churchyard Extension (or Burial Grounds) Invergordon, Scotland, whilst Flt Sgt Mellersh (RAAF) who was missing lost his life at sea. He has no known grave and his name is commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK. The remaining four RAAF crew members were injured but survived the crash.

114 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

421360 Warrant Officer MELLON, John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/33/253 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: BZ 943 Radio call sign: Unit: ATTD 86 SQN RAF

Summary: Liberator BZ 943 of 86 Sqn RAF took off at night on 18th November 1944 from RAF Station Tain, Scotland, on a non-operational training flight using the Leigh Light. The aircraft crashed in the sea about 11 miles north east of Banff, Scotland. Continuous searches for any survivors were made by aircraft and rescue launches.

Crew: RAAF 414079 PO Pordage, H (Navigator) RAAF 420389 WO Hough, G F (Navigator Bombaimer) RAAF 422349 WO Noble, I R S (Wireless Operator Air) RAAF 420786 WO Peck, R J (Wireless Operator Air) RAAF 421360 WO Mellon, J (Wireless Operator Air) RAAF 411302 FO Easterbrook, S D (Navigator Bombaimer) RAF Flt Lt Gates RAF Flt Sgt McCabe RAF PO Humphreys, J A (Wireless Operator Air) RNZAF FO Norrie

The remains of FO Easterbrook (RAAF) and Flt Sgt Humphreys (RAF) were recovered, but the remaining crew members were listed as having lost their lives at sea.

FO Easterbrook is buried in the Bellie Burial Ground, Moray shire, Scotland. PO Humphries is buried in the Livgerpool (Anfield) Cemetery, Lancashire, UK. The other missing crew members have no known grave, and their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

115 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

413876 Flight Sergeant MENERE, Douglas

Source: NAA : A705, 166/27/267

Aircraft Type: Stirling Serial number: EF 453 Radio call sign: Unit: 199 Sqn RAF

Summary: Stirling EF 453 of 199 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Lakenheath, Bradon, Suffolk at 1558 hours on the night of 4/5th November 1943, to carry out mining operations in the Kattegat area. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 412627 PO Moore, D F, Captain (Pilot) RAF FO Welsh, D C (Navigator) RAF Sgt Jones, V (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Richmond, A (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Southgate, V J (Flight Engineer) RAAF 413876 Flt Sgt Menere, D (Mid Upper Gunner) RCAF Flt Sgt Watson, P (Rear Gunner)

With no trace of the missing aircraft or crew being found from post war investigations and enquiries, it was recorded that the missing crew were lost at sea.

116 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400417 Sergeant MENZIES, Stewart Keith

Source: NAA : A705, 163/143/69

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Z 9713 Radio call sign: Unit: 211 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim Z 9713 of 211 Sqn RAF was lost as a result of enemy action at approx 12.30pm on 6 February 1942. Three aircraft were operating on escort duty and two did not return (Z 7586 and Z 9713), and the third aircraft was shot down on the way back to Palembang. The escort duty was over a convoy from Berhala Straits to Banka Straits.

A survivor (Sgt Offard) from the third aircraft shot down, later stated that “he had seen one Blenheim on fire, but he did not know what happened to the second aircraft missing”.

Crew: RAAF 407810 Sgt Steele, G M (Pilot) RAAF 400417 Sgt Menzies, S K (Observer) RAAF 402033 Sgt Gornall, G H (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations the search for the above missing crew was abandoned in 1950.

117 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

409566 Flight Sergeant MEYER, Donnelly Coombe

Source: NAA : A705, 166/27/238

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HZ 811 Radio call sign: Unit: 150 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HZ 811 of 150 Sqn RAF was one of a number of Squadron aircraft to attack barges and harbour installations at Leghorn, Italy. HZ 811 took off at 1845 hours on 24 September 1943. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. Leghorn is located on the North West coast of Italy.

Crew: RAAF 409340 FO Williams, E O S (Pilot) RAAF 410198 FO West, J D (Navigator) RAAF 415521 Flt Sgt Godfrey, R R (Navigator) RAAF 409566 Flt Sgt Meyer, D G (Navigator Acting Bombaimer) RAAF 421059 Flt Sgt Veale, N J (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations when no trace of the missing aircraft or crew was located, it was recorded in 1948 that the crew had lost their lives at sea.

118 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

401848 Flight Sergeant MILLER, Colin McDowell

Source: NAA : A705, 166/27/20

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: IW 4789 Radio call sign: PH – E Unit: 12 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster IW 4789 of 12 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Wickenby, at 1626 hours on the 17 January 1943 to bomb Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 406573 Flt Sgt D.C.Morphett, Captain (Pilot). RAAF 401848 Flt Sgt C.McD.Miller, Navigator. RAAF 412099 Flt Sgt J.K.Bond, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAF Sgt J.Corke. RAF Sgt L.E.Austin. RAF Sgt D.B.Pollitt. RAF Sgt W.B.Maunder.

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

119 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

426133 Sergeant MILLER, Raymond

Source: NAA : A705, 166/17/427

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: LN 661 Radio call sign: - E Unit: 11 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington LN 661 of No 11 Operational Training Unit took off from RAF Westcott, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, at 1120pm on a night cross country navigation training flight. Part of the flight was over the North Sea. The last known position of the aircraft was 52.55N 10.58W. Then nothing was heard from LN 661 which failed to return to base. ASR searches found no trace of the missing aircraft or crew.

Crew: RNZAF Flt Sgt Blackwood, H W A Captain (Pilot) RAAF 426133 Sgt Miller, R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 419992 Flt Sgt Hare, W H (Air Gunner) RNZAF PO Willis, H R RAF Sgt Jaeger, J H RAF Sgt May, L D RAF Sgt Body, J J

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK.

120 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404783 Flight Sergeant MILLER, Sydney Frederick

Source: NAA : A9301, Barcode 5522640 No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives.

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 58 Sqn RAF

Summary: Flt Sgt Miller was reported missing as a result of air operations from the UK on 1 June 1943.

Crew: RAAF 404783 Flt Sgt Miller, S R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) No other crew details are available from the above file.

121 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

406306 Warrant Officer MINCHAM, Ernest Arthur

Source: NAA : A705, 166/27/247 AWM 65 (3646)

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: FK 923 Radio call sign: Unit: 120 Sqn RAF

Summary: Liberator FK 923 of 120 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Reykjavik on an anti sub patrol over an Atlantic convoy, on 4 October 1943. At 1130 am a signal from the aircraft was received stating ‘about to carry out an attack’. The signal faded and nothing further was heard from the aircraft which did not return to base. It was considered that the aircraft may have been shot down by flak. Searches were carried out the next day and aircraft were warned to keep a lookout, but no trace of the missing aircraft or crew were found.

Crew: RAF Wg Cdr Longmore, R M OBE, Captain (Pilot) RAF FO Tait, R W RAF Flt Lt Bruce RAF Flt Sgt Parsons RAF Flt Sgt Furr RAAF 407563 WO Stott, W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 406306 WO Mincham, E A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RCAF PO Webber

It was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

122 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

436054 Flight Sergeant MINCHIN, Vernon Harold

Source: NAA : A705, 166/27/616

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: PD 326 Radio call sign: VN - Unit: 50 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster PD 326 of 50 Sqn RAF took off form RAF Station Skellingthorpe Lincolnshire, at 2220 hours on 28 October 1944 to attack U boat pens at Bergen, Norway. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 423391 FO Wonders, R R, Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Fearnley, J (Flight Engineer) RAAF 436054 Flt Sgt Minchin, V H (Navigator) RAAF 417821 Flt Sgt Earle, H M (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Chaloner, G (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Foster, D R (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Kenyon, R (Rear Gunner)

With no trace of the missing aircraft or crew being found following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

123 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

29132 Flight Sergeant MITCHELL, David Sneddon

Source: NAA : A705, 166/27/463

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: MX 592 Radio call sign: LK – G Unit: 578 Sqn RAF

Summary: Halifax MX 592 of 578 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Burn, near Selby, Yorkshire, at 2338 hours on 12 June 1944, to attack a target at Amiens, France. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF FO Wilden, R F Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Currums, W N (Flight Engineer) RAAF 423896 Flt Sgt Robin, P R A (Navigator) RAF Sgt Askwith, P (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Hocking, J C (Wireless Operator) RAAF 429375 Flt Sgt Griffith, J B DeB (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 29132 Flt Sgt Mitchell, D S (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was established that the aircraft was hit by flak and crashed at Mailly Raineval (Somme), 5 miles south west of Moreuil. FO Wilden and one unidentified crew member are buried in the Parish cemetery at Mailly Raineval, but no trace of the remaining 5 crew members could be found.

124 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

406812 Flight Sergeant MITCHELL, Phillip Rossiter

Source: NAA : A705, 163/144/214

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: BJ 776 Radio call sign: Unit: 12 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington BJ 776 of 12 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Wickenby, at 7.30pm on 26 September 1942 to carry out a sea mining mission in German territorial waters in the Kiel Bay area. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 402989 FO Ward, J S, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 401864 Sgt Thompson, H C (Navigator) RAAF 411320 Sgt Harden, J B (Air Bomber) RAAF 403375 Sgt Rich, A C (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 406812 Flt Sgt Mitchell, P R (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

125 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

442280 Flight Sergeant MITCHELL, Ronald Walter

Source: NAA : A705, 166/27/727

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HE 853 Radio call sign: Unit: 30 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington HE 853 of No 30 Operational Training unit RAF took off at 1200 hours on 8 January 1945, to carry out a solo cross country exercise. The aircraft acknowledged a 3rd class fix from Bristol at 1416 hours. At that stage HE 853 was on track and ETA in position 51.53N 04.43W. Bombing practice should have been carried out at 1615 hours but no messages were received from the aircraft after that and there was no response to calls sent out by Group Operations. The aircraft was reported overdue at 1750 hours.

Crew: RAF Sgt Lewis, R K H (Pilot) RAAF 442280 Flt Sgt Mitchell, R W (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAF Sgt Woods, C W (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt McLoughlin, T S (Wireless Operator) RAF Sgt Vincent, T R W (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

126 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

414587 Warrant Officer MOFFAT, Raymond William

Source: NAA : A705, 166/28/553

Aircraft Type: Mosquito Serial number: HR 632 Radio call sign: ‘Q’ Unit: 248 Sqn RAF

Summary: Mosquito ‘Q’ HR 632 of 248 Sqn RAF located at RAF Station, Banff, Scotland, was one of a formation of aircraft detailed to carry out an anti-shipping sweep in the Skaggerak and Kattagat on the afternoon of 12 March 1945.

The patrol had been completed without incident, and the formation was 50 nautical miles south-west of Lister (Norway), when an interception was carried out by enemy fighter aircraft.

Reports of other aircrew suggest that aircraft ‘Q’ HR 632 had been straggling up to this time – Position in formation No 2 in starboard section – rear squadron.

One pilot of No 333 Squadron – acting as fighter crew to the formation – saw an enemy aircraft attacking and apparently scoring hits on a Mosquito at the rear of the formation. He shot the enemy aircraft down but saw nothing further of this Mosquito HR 632.

Crew: RAAF 414587 WO Moffatt, R W (Pilot) RAAF 422360 FO Abbott, B A S (Navigator (W))

127 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400019 Sergeant MOHR, Reginald Daly DFM

Source: NAA : A9300, Barcode 5245215 No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives. AWM 65 (3665)

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 211 Sqn RAF

Summary: Sgt Mohr was reported missing believed killed in air operations in Java on 1 March 1942.

Crew: RAAF 400019 Sgt Mohr, R D, DFM (Observer)

No other details area available from the above file.

Citation : DFM : Sgt R D Mohr of 39 Squadron RAF, was the observer in an aircraft which carried out a long distance reconnaissance over enemy territory. In the course of the flight the pilot became incapacitated and fell over the controls. The aircraft went into a dive and Sergeant Mohr, with great coolness and initiative, fitted the auxiliary control and succeeded in regaining control of the aircraft after it had lost height for some 4000 feet. He then flew the aircraft back to base handing over the controls to his pilot who had recovered sufficiently to land the aircraft safely. By his initiative and promptitude, Sergeant Mohr saved the aircraft and crew from becoming a loss.

128 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

410168 Flight Sergeant MONCRIEFF, Edwin Douglas

Source: NAA : A705, 166/28/224

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: DS 777 Radio call sign: A4 - C Unit: 105 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster DS 777 of 105 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Witchford, Cambridgeshire, at 2019 hours on 20 January 1944 to attack Madgeburg, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 410168 Flt Sgt Moncrieff, E D Captain (Pilot) RCAF Flt Sgt Becker, R B (Navigator) RAAF 423667 Flt Sgt Davison, A G (Bomb Aimer) RAF Sgt Baxter, K W J (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Shelton, G W (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Lynch, P (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Luck, C V (Flight Engineer)

German documents examined post war record that the aircraft was shot down in the vicinity of Sommersdorf, some 40 miles west of Madgeburg. As Madgeburg was located in the Soviet Occupied Zone of Germany it was not possible for investigating teams to visit the crash site. Flt Sgt Davison (RAAF), Flt Sgt Becker (RCAF) and Sgt Luck (RAF) survived the crash and became POW’s. Sgt Shelton (RAF) is interred in the Berlin Heerstrasse Cemetery. The remaining three missing members of the crew are recorded as having no known grave.

129 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403063 Sergeant MOONEY, Landon Pleasents

Source : AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/145/216 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Spitfire Serial number: AD 209 Radio call sign: Unit: ATTD 118 SQN RAF

Summary: Spitfire AD209 as Black No 2 was part of a formation of Spitfires detailed to provide close escort to six Bostons detailed to attack the docks at Cherbourg, France. At approximately 0930 hours when the formation was returning and some 30 miles from the Needles, Black section who were on the right of the bombers were attacked from above and behind by several ME109’s. Black 1 took violent evasive action and did not see Black 2 again. Black 1 called up Black 2 and heard a very distracted transmission which he took to be Black 1. Ibsley D/F station heard Black 2 ask for a homing, and Ibsley continued to give homings for some time without reply from Black 2. No transmissions were made by Black 2 for an ASR frequency.

It was presumed that Black 2 was shot down by the ME109’s about 25 miles south of the Needles. A search by aircraft and boats were made that day but no trace of the missing pilot or aircraft were found.

Crew : RAAF 403063 Sgt LP Mooney, (Pilot)

It was later recorded that Sgt Mooney had lost his life at sea. His name is commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

130 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

410555 Sergeant MOORE, Cyril James

Source: NAA : A705, 166/28/110

Aircraft Type: Stirling Serial number: BS 436 Radio call sign: Unit: 75 Sqn RAF

Summary: Stirling BS 436 of 75 (New Zealand) Sqn RAF, took off from RAF Mepal, near Ely, Cambridgeshire on 5 July 1943 to lay mines in the Friesian Islands area. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RNZAF Sgt Thomas, M Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Stobbs, W E (Navigator) RAF Sgt Taylor, D A A (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt McLoughlin, J B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Lackenby, A (Flight Engineer) RAAF 410555 Sgt Moore, C J (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Lavington. L O (Air Gunner)

131 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

423171 Flight Sergeant MOORE, Walter William

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/35/272 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: BZ 873 Radio call sign: Unit: ATTD 53 SQN RAF

Summary: Liberator BZ873 took off from St Eval near Wadebridge, Cornwall at 2050 hours on the night of 20/21st May 1944 to carry out a Leigh Light anti sub patrol over the Atlantic. At 0120 hours on 21st May a signal was received from the aircraft ‘investigating possible U boat’. The signal was cancelled a few minutes later and since then nothing further was heard. The aircraft failed to return to base.

Crew: RAF FO Bowman, G A Captain (Pilot) RAAF 8934 Flt Sgt J K Richards, (2nd Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt R D Christie, (1st Navigator) RAAF 423171 Flt Sgt W W Moore, (2nd Navigator) RAF Sgt G Harrison, (Wireless Operator Air) RAAF 420313 FO Watkins, H W (Wireless Air Gunner) RAAF 425024 Flt Sgt J T Kerr, (Wireless Air Gunner) RAAF 425311 Flt Sgt A F Johnson, (Wireless Air Gunner) RAF WO F W Atherton (Wireless Air Gunner) RAF FO McTaggart, W (Flight Engineer)

The patrol was down the French coast then out to sea down the Spanish coast to Gibraltra and back. The aircraft was expected back about 8am 21st May. It left base at 6pm the day before. Sgt Harrison body was washed ashore on the north coast of Spain. Atherton’s body was found floating at sea by a fisherman who established the identity but did not recover the body.

Sgt Harrison is buried in the Bilbao British Cemetery, Spain. Bilbao is a seaport in the north of Spain. All the remaining nine crew members have no known grave and their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

132 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403874 Sergeant MOREY, Monte Ralph Source: NAA : A9301, Barcode 5523247 No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives. But see NAA : A705, 163/175/101 Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: Z 8568 Radio call sign: Unit: 104 Sqn RAF

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: Z 8568 Radio call sign: Unit: 104 Sqn RAF Summary: Wellington Z 8568 of 104 Sqn RAF took off at 2308 hours on 24 July 1942 from Kabrit, Middle East to carry out night operations. On the 25 July the following signals were received from Z 8568 : 0238 hours “serious engine trouble may be forced to land” 0246 hours “Ht 1500 feet, course 105deg airspeed 100 mph”. 0308 hours “position 31.02 N 27.30 E”. The operator then changed frequency to Burg-el-Arab H/F D/F who worked the aircraft until 0420 hours. By this time the aircraft should have reached Burg-el-Arab or the vicinity thereof, but the aircraft did not land. Searches the next day found no trace of the missing aircraft. Sgt Stokes (RAF) a member of the crew who became a POW later stated “the aircraft crashed near Fuka Egypt. Four airmen were killed in the crash in the Western desert on 25 July. Sgt Eke (RAF) was still alive and badly injured on the 26th. Stokes set out to seek aid and was taken POW on 28 July. He told the Italians the whereabouts of the aircraft and of Sgt Eke, and had not heard anything further.” Crew: RAF Sgt Milner, R A Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Eke, G L (2nd Pilot) RAF Sgt Porter, D C (Observer) RAAF 404662 Flt Sgt Vinnicombe, T L (1st Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 403874 Sgt Morey, M R (2nd Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Stokes, H M (Air Gunner)

Following post war searches and enquiries, when no trace of the five missing crew was found the case was closed.

133 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402451 Sergeant MORGAN, Henry Blanchard

Source: NAA : A705, 163/145/145

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: V 6324 Radio call sign: Unit: 17 Op Trg Unit RAF

Summary: Blenheim V 6324 of No 17 Operational Training Unit RAF was flying in formation with two other aircraft on 12 October 1941. When approx 60 miles out to sea east of Filey, Yorkshire, the rear gunner of one of the aircraft reported V 6324 appeared to be in trouble emitting black smoke from an engine with the airscrew loosing revolutions. The aircraft executed a wide movement and then returned to the formation flying above and behind. The aircraft then attempted to gain height, but as it turned the engine apparently stalled and V 6324 dived into the sea. The other aircraft circled the position but no trace of wreckage or survivors was seen other than an oil patch.

ASR rescue boats and aircraft searched the area but nothing was found.

Crew: RAAF 400482 Sgt Paul, M W E (Pilot) RAAF 402451 Sgt Morgan, H B (Observer) RAF Sgt Hamer, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

It was later recorded that the missing crew ha lost their lives at sea.

134 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

425719 Flight Sergeant MORLEY, Daniel Charles

Source: NAA : A705, 166/28/192

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: DS 782 Radio call sign: KO – K Unit: 115 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster DS 782 of 115 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Wichfield, Cambridge at 1737 hours on 22 November 1943 to bomb Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Sgt Harris, J Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Hughes, D H RAF Sgt Boole, M RCAF PO Smith, J M RAF Sgt Wilson, A RAAF 425719 Flt Sgt Morley, D C (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Hurn, H A R

Following post war investigations and enquiries, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing crew had no known grave.

135 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

406573 Flight Sergeant MORPHETT, Douglas Clarke

Source: NAA : A705, 166/28/7

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: IW 4789 Radio call sign: PH – E Unit: 12 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster IW 4789 of 12 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Wickenby, at 1626 hours on the 17 January 1943 to bomb Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 406573 Flt Sgt D.C.Morphett, Captain (Pilot). RAAF 401848 Flt Sgt C.MacD.Miller, Navigator. RAAF 412099 Flt Sgt J.K.Bond, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAF Sgt J.Corke. RAF Sgt L.E.Austin. RAF Sgt D.B.Pollitt. RAF Sgt W.B.Maunder.

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

136 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407093 Sergeant MORPHETT, Henry Leslie Benjamin

Source: NAA : A705, 163/145/138

Aircraft Type: Whitley Serial number: Z 6574 Radio call sign: DY – B Unit: 102 Sqn RAF

Summary: Whitley Z 6574 of 102 (Ceylon) Sqn RAF took off from RAF Topcliffe at 2035 hours on 6 September 1941 to carry out an operational mission against Huls. Whilst returning from the mission, Z 6574 transmitted an SOS at 0135 hours on 7 September, to say it was forced landing in the North Sea. A fix positioned the aircraft some 60 miles east of Bircham Newton, Norfolk. Subsequent searches could not locate any wreckage or find any survivors from the forced landing.

Crew: RAF PO Croucher, J R RAF Sgt Tugman, J R RAAF 407063 Sgt Morphett, H L B (Observer) RCAF Flt Sgt Halsey, A C RCAF Glover, J

137 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

401242 Flight Sergeant MORTON, Lindsay Herbert

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/145/326 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: R 5673 Radio call sign: OL – L Unit: 83 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster R 5673 of 83 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Wyton, Huntingdon, at 2205 hours on 6 November 1942 to bomb Genoa, Italy. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RCAF WO Long, V R Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Waite, J L G (Flight Engineer) RCAF Flt Sgt Roberts, M L (Navigator) RAAF 401242 Flt Sgt Morton, L H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Chapman, W G (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Mackay, E (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Hayward, P (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

138 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

410845 Flight Sergeant MOXHAM, Bernard

Source: AWM237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/28/291 Micro Film No 463 OAFH Commonwealth War Graves records.

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: ED 847 Radio call sign: PM – R Unit: ATTD 166 SQN RAF

Summary: Lancaster ED847 of 166 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Elsham Wolds, Barnetby, Lincolnshire, at 2304 hours on the night of 26/27th April 1944, to attack Essen, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF PO Sheppard, F Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Greenfield, A (Flight Engineer) RAF Flt Sgt Nichols, A L (Navigator) RCAF Flt Sgt Leask, D G (Air Bomber) RAAF 410845 Flt Sgt Moxham, B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Flt Sgt Bell, D H (Mid Upper Gunner) RCAF Flt Sgt Quinn, (Rear Gunner)

Following post war investigations, it was established that the aircraft had exploded in mid air and crashed at Buderich near Dusseldorf Flt Sgt Moxham (RAAF) has no known grave and his name is commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK. The remaining six crew members are interred at the Rheinberg War Cemetery, Locality Kamp Lintfort, Nordrhein-Westfal, Germany. Rheinberg is 24kms north of Krefeld and 13kms south of Wesel.

139 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403875 Warrant Officer MUDIE, Reginald Edward

Source: NAA : A705, 166/28/107

Aircraft Type: Marauder Serial number: FK 129 Radio call sign: Unit: TPT Commd ATT RCAF

Summary: Marauder FK 129 of Transport Command attached to the RCAF crashed at sea at 1530 hours on 22 June 1943, 35 miles west of Borinqhon and 15 miles north west of Deschow Island. Searches were made over many days but no trace of the missing crew or items of equipment was found, but an oil slick was reported.

Crew: Mr Millar, H C Captain (US Civil employee) Mr Burchfield, L (1st Officer) (US Civil employee) RAAF 403875 WO Mudie, R E (Observer) Mr Vickeroy, P A (Canadian Radio Operator)

In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

140 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400480 Flight Sergeant MUELLER, Phillip John Otto

Source: NAA : A705, 163/146/230

Aircraft Type: Beaufighter Serial number: T 5278 Radio call sign: Unit: 248 Sqn RAF

Summary: Beaufighter T 5278 of 248 Sqn RAF was one of three Beaufighters detailed on 1st December 1942 to search for a Beaufighter missing from an intercept patrol on the previous day. After taking off soon after 8am from RAF Talbenny, Pembrokeshire, nothing was heard from the aircraft and all three search aircraft failed to return to base.

Crew: RAAF 400480 Flt Sgt Mueller, P J O (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Whitcombe, R (Navigator wireless)

In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

141 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405640 Warrant Officer MULLER, Frank Esbert

Source: NAA : A705, 166/28/258

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HF 170 Radio call sign: Unit: 612 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HF 170 of 612 (County of Aberdeen) Sqn RAF took off from RAF Chivenor, North Devon at 2149 hours on 17 March 1944 to carry out a 10 hour anti-submarine patrol. At 03203 hours on 18 March 91 Group sent out a message to all aircraft to return to base immediately. This was acknowledged by HF 170. No 19 Group subsequently called HF 170 and received no reply. At 1030 hours on 18 March the aircraft had not returned to base, and overdue action was taken.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Verdon, A Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Smith, R C (2nd Pilot) RAAF 405640 WO Muller, F E (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAF Sgt Nash, R (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Crabb, G (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Clewer, R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

142 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

26117 Sergeant MULLER, Harold Frederick

Source: NAA : A705, 166/28/6

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: ED 316 Radio call sign: Unit: 1656 Conversion RAF

Summary: Lancaster ED 316 of 1656 Conversion Unit, RAF, took off from RAF Station Lindholme, Yorkshire, at 1648 hours on the night of 17/18th January 1943 to attack Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RNZAF Flt Lt Hood, S D L, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 416110 FO Walter, K B (Navigator/Bombaimer) RAAF 401259 PO Weaving, K A C (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 411109 Sgt Lindsay, D J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, (A/B)) RAF Sgt Woodrow, H (Air Gunner) RAAF 22643 Sgt Logue, S E (Air Gunner) RAAF 26117 Sgt Muller, H F (Flight Engineer)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

143 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

424785 Flight Sergeant MULLINS, Raymond James

Source: NAA : A705, 166/28/387

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: EV 899 Radio call sign: Unit: 53 Sqn RAF

Summary: Liberator EV 899 of 53 Sqn RAF took off from RAF St Eval, near Wadebridge Cornwall, at 1915 hours on 26 August 1944 to carry out an anti-sub patrol in the Channel area. At 0229 hours on the 27 August, suspicious contacts were made off the Les Sept Isles, flares were dropped and two runs made on the Leigh Light. The night was very dark and moonless. The Captain manouvred the aircraft for an attack at 100 feet.

The radio altimeter was flickering Amber/Red and the aircraft struck the sea. The Captain came to the surface and found an inflated dinghy beside the fuselage. He and Sgt Coombes and Sgt Steer made contact before the fuselage sank. They searched for the others with torches and flame floats without success. The next morning an aircraft located the three survivors, boats rescued them and landed them at Cherbourg.

Crew: RAF Flt Lt Forbes, G M Captain (Pilot) RNZAF Flt Sgt Reay, H C (2nd Pilot) RAF Flt Lt Hood ( 1st Navigator) RAAF 424785 Flt Sgt Mullins, R J ( 2nd Navigator Bomb Aimer) RNZAF Flt Sgt Barnes, W H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RNZAF Flt Sgt Falconer J C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Taak, W C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Ashworth, H R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Steer (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Coombes (Flight Engineer)

In 1949 it was recorded that the remaining seven missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

144 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405276 Flight Sergeant MUNDAY, Neville Richardson

Source: NAA : A705, 166/28/198

Aircraft Type: Sunderland Serial number: W 6060 Radio call sign: Unit: 4 ( C ) Training RAF

Summary: Sunderland W 6060 of No 4 Conversion Training Unit from RAF Station Alness, Ross- shire Scotland, took off at 2145 hours on 27 November 1943, to carry out non operational training. The aircraft made five unsuccessful attempts to land. On the sixth attempt the aircraft throttled down by No 3 flare, bounced twice, attempted to go around again, and crashed into the flat calm sea in Cromarty Firth.

Crew: RCAF FO Hill, J Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Goudie, M (2nd Pilot) RAAF 405276 Flt Sgt Munday, N R (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAF FO Forbes, J (Signaller Instructor) RAF Sgt Bannbiere, F (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Bromley, W W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Bridges, W (Wireless Operator Maintenance) RAF Sgt Bowen, W (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Linden. G (Fitter Maintenance Engines) RAF Sgt Limbrick, L (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Keeping, E (Air Gunner)

It was later recorded that the five missing crew members Flt Sgt Munday (RAAF) and Sgts Bridges, Bowen, Linden, Limbrick (all of the RAF) had no known grave. The other six members were injured but survived.

145 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

413007 Warrant Officer MURPHY, Jack Donald

Source: NAA : A705, 166/28/84

Aircraft Type: Spitfire Serial number: MJ 151 Radio call sign: Unit: 111 Sqn RAF

Summary: Spitfire MJ 151 of 111 Sqn RAF was one of 12 aircraft detailed to patrolling the Anzio beachhead Italy, at 18,000 feet from 0650 hours on 20 March 1944. Two formations of enemy aircraft 5000 feet below were sighted and the Spitfire formation dived to attack. During combat the formation split up in the area between the beachhead and the River Tiber. As the aircraft were returning from the patrol, MJ 151 called on the R/T that he would have to bale out. He was not seen to bale out and MJ 151 did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 413007 WO Murphy, J D (Pilot)

It was later recorded that the aircraft had crashed into the sea, and that WO Murphy had no known grave.

146 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407094 Flight Sergeant MURRAY, Geoffrey Hillam Gurr

Source: NAA : A705, 163/141/117

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: R 9496 Radio call sign: Unit: 35 Sqn RAF

Summary: Halifax R 9496 of No 35 (Madras Presidency) Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Linton-on-Ouse at 1909 hours on the night of 30/31 March 1942 to attack Trondheim, Norway. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Archibald RAF Sgt Nelmes RAAF 407094 Flt Sgt Murray, G H G (Observer) RAF Sgt McLaren RAF Sgt Staff RAF Sgt Francis RAF Sgt Palmer

Following post war enquiries and investigations it was established that the aircraft crashed 15kms north west of Drontheim, Norway on the 30 March. This is a point in the sea a short distance from the north shore of Trondheim Fiord.

The bodies of Flt Sgt Archibald, Sgt McLaren and Sgt Francis (RAF) are interred in the Military Cemetery at Drontheim. It was concluded that the remaining four missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

147 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

423208 Flight Sergeant MURRAY, John Ambrose McCormack

Source: NAA : A705, 166/28/189

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HZ 129 Radio call sign: Unit: 15 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington HZ 129 of No 15 Operational Training Unit RAF took off on 19 November 1943 from RAF Portreath for Gibraltar, in transit for North Africa. The aircraft failed to arrive at Gibraltar.

Crew: RAAF 413628 Flt Sgt Matheson, R H (Pilot) RAAF 419171 Flt Sgt Forbes, J R (Air Gunner) RAAF 423208 Flt Sgt Murray, J A McC (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Robinson, E A RAF Sgt Deveney, P J RAF Sgt Harris, L S RAF Sgt Smith, L T RAF Sgt Wooldridge, F J

148 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

406149 Sergeant MUSTO, Clifford William

Source: NAA : A705, 163/146/85

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: R 5499 Radio call sign: EM – O Unit: 207 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster R 5499 of 207 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Bottesford, Nottinghamshire, at 2350 hours on 10 August 1942 to lay mines in the ‘Silverthorn’ area. The aircraft carried 5 x 1500 lb mines. Other aircraft reported that the weather was very bad with 10/10th cloud to all heights down to 800 feet base, and very dark. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RCAF FO Spiers, J G Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Cladis, L G (2nd Pilot) RAF PO Easley, C (Observer) RCAF Sgt Atkins, M W (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAF FO Glazebrook, S DFM (Air Gunner) RAAF 406149 Sgt Musto, C W (Air Gunner) RAF PO Hatwell, R R (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

149 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

406030 Sergeant MUTTON, George

Source: NAA : A705, 163/146/112 163/46/56 (Enclosure 5b)

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: 9726 Radio call sign: Unit: 84 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim 9726 of No 84 Sqn RAF took off on 12 February 1942 from Palembang, Java, to carry out a night raid. The aircraft got off the ground did a half circuit to come in to land, attempted to turn around the flare path and passed right through the orderly room. The aircraft was wrecked but did not catch fire.

Crew: RAAF 404144 Sgt Hyatt, J M (Pilot) RAAF 406030 Sgt Mutton, GT (Observer) RAAF Sgt Irvine (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Sgt Irvine was injured, but he rejoined the Squadron after treatment. Both Sgt’s Hyatt and Mutton were killed instantly and were buried on the drome at Palembang 11, with Chaplain McWilliams conducting the burial service.

Following post war searches the graves of Sgt’s Hyatt and Sgt Mutton could not be located as the area was overgrown with tropical vegetation. In 1951 it was recorded that they have no known grave.

150 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

415174 Flight Sergeant NAILE, Leslie Jack

Source: NAA : A705, 166/29/26

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: ED 988 Radio call sign: HW – J Unit: 100 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster ED 988 of 100 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Grimsby, Lincolnshire at 1123 hours on 25 June 1943 together with 15 other aircraft to bomb Geksenkirchen, Germany. Nothing was heard from ED 988 after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 415174 Flt Sgt Naile, L J Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Connah, C (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Mepsted, R W (Navigator) RAF PO Reynolds, C P (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Dillon, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RNZAF Flt Sgt Perritt, L G (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Bennett, L (Rear Gunner)

It was established post war that the aircraft had crashed at Middenbeemster, about 7 miles north west of Edam, Holland, about 0100 hours on the 26 June 1943, and that all the crew were killed instantly. The bodies of three of the crew were buried by the Germans at New East Cemetery, Amsterdam, one identified as Sgt Bennett (RAF) and the other two unidentified. It was found impossible to establish the whereabouts of the other crew members, and they have no known grave and a Memorial plaque was erected at the New Cemetery in 1946.

151 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403647 Flight Sergeant NASH, Joseph Herbert Graham

Source: NAA : A705, 166/29/51 (a pension file) A9301, Bar code 5522647

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: DV 569 Radio call sign: Unit: 37 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington DV 569 took off at 2100 hours on 22 February 1943 to attack a target at Palermo, Sicily. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 403647 Flt Sgt Nash, J H G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) No other crew details are recorded in the above files.

152 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

425885 Flight Sergeant NAYLER, Edward Allan

Source: NAA : A705, 166/29/113

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: LN 878 Radio call sign: Unit: 21 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington LN 878 of No 21 Operational Training Unit RAF took off from RAF Station Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, on a day cross country exercise on 24 April 1944. The last known position of the aircraft was a fix which placed LN 878 80 miles east of Hull. The aircraft failed to return to base after the exercise.

Subsequent reports show that the Wireless Operator had contacted numerous stations during the trip and was well up to his job. He would have taken correct action in distress had he had time. There was no evidence to show how the aircraft became lost. From the way the plot faded suddenly there is a strong possibility that it had been shot down by enemy fighters. Subsequent searches found no trace of the missing aircraft or crew.

Crew: RAAF 414456 Sgt J.G.Beilby, Pilot. RAAF 432219 Sgt M.D.MacFarlane, Navigator. RAF Sgt J.M.Dunn, Air Bomber. RAAF 425885 Flt Sgt E.A.Nayler, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAF Sgt W.Lane, Air Gunner.

Following post war enquiries and investigations it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

153 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

401528 Flight Sergeant NEALE, Alan Frank

Source: NAA : A705, 166/29/2

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: W 4372 Radio call sign: PH – G Unit: 12 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster W 4372 of 12 Sqn RAF took off at 1634 hours on 17 January 1943 from RAF Station Wickenby, UK, to bomb Berlin. No further news received of the aircraft or crew.

Crew: RNZAF Sgt Withell, E B Captain, (Pilot) RAAF 411739 PO Burrows, W G (Navigator) RAAF 411595 PO Mullinger, R B (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 401528 Flt Sgt Neale, A F (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Hunter, J B (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Mitchell, A (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Richardson, L H (Rear Gunner)

The body of Sgt Mitchell, RAF was washed ashore at Nymindegab, on the south west coast of Denmark, and buried at Esbjerg, Denmark.

154 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

410557 Flight Sergeant NEESON, Andrew John

Source: NAA : A705, 166/29/88

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: ME 587 Radio call sign: UM – Z2 Unit: 626 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster ME 587 of 626 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Wickenby, Lincoln, at 1718 hours on 31 January 1944 to attack Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF FO Wilkinson, J Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Noad, C A (Navigator) RCAF Flt Sgt Lafferty, A E (Air Bomber) RAAF 410557 Flt Sgt Neeson, A J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Anderson, W A M (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Pomeroy, J S (Mid Upper Gunner) RCAF Sgt Allen, R N (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

155 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404036 Sergeant NEILL, Jack Carson Grayson

Source: NAA : A705, 163/147/120

Aircraft Type: Maryland Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 69 Sqn RAF

Summary: A Maryland aircraft of 69 Sqn RAF left Luqa, Malta on 15 July 1941 to carry out a photo recce over Tripoli and the North African coast. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 404019 Sgt Lee, C F (Pilot) RAAF 402026 Sgt Simpson, J McK Observer) RAAF 404036 Sgt Neill, J C G (Air Gunner) There are no other details of any other crew member recorded on above file.

In 1948 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

156 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400120 Flight Sergeant NELL, Frederick John Gordon

Source: NAA : A705, 163/147/211

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: R 3911 Radio call sign: Unit: 11 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim R 3911 of 11 Sqn RAF India, was detailed on 9 April 1942 to bomb enemy shipping. It was lost at approx 12 midday as a result of enemy action.

Crew: RAAF 404107 Sgt MacLennan, H A (Pilot) RAAF 408017 Sgt Travers, A R (Observer) RAAFR 400120 Flt Sgt Nell, F J G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

157 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

423854 Flight Sergeant NELSON, John Arthur Source: NAA : A705, 166/29/158

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: BZ 978 Radio call sign: Unit: 159 Sqn RAF Summary: Liberator BZ 978 of 159 Sqn RAF took off on 5 October 1944 together with 15 other aircraft, on a low level attack on the Bangkok – Lampang railway line from Uttardit to Bhanpajii. Locomotives were the primary target with opportunity targets along the railway line secondary. An SOS was received from BZ 978, and another 35 minutes later saying “Trying Chittagong, two engines U/s, height 5000 feet, air speed 140 mph.” twenty four minutes later another message was received “ unable to receive due to heavy interference”. Eleven minutes later a final message to Base Control said “attacked by two enemy fighters over target, one dead and two wounded” This was the last message received from the aircraft which did not return to base.

ASR and air searches were carried out over the area the aircraft was thought to have ditched. These reported on the night of 6/7th October that flashing lights and pyrotechnics were seen in position 18.30N, 92.50E. No dinghy was seen. On 7 October a dinghy was seen in position 18.55N, 92.22E. On 9 October a dinghy was again sighted, but there was doubt whether this was the unit’s dinghy. Nothing further was seen of the crew or dinghy. Crew: RAF WO McKinnon, J Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Roper, L J (2nd Pilot) RAAF 416627 WO Swan, C S (Navigator) RAAF 420172 WO Ford, E P Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Hill, F E RAAF 423854 Flt Sgt Nelson, J A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Flt Sgt Paterson, W N (Air Gunner) RCAF Flt Sgt Richardson, H F (Air Gunner)

Flt Sgt Richardson (RAF) reached the shore in a dinghy, but subsequently died in Rangoon jail on 28 October 1944. Flt Sgt Roper and Sgt Hill (RAF) successfully reached shore in a dinghy, survived and returned to the UK safe. It was established that WO Ford (RAAF) was killed in the air by gun fire from enemy aircraft, and his body was not

158 recovered. Also the four other missing crew members were not seen to leave the aircraft after ditching and their bodies were not recovered.

159 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

401529 Flight Sergeant NICHOLAS, William James

Source: NAA : A705, 163/147/251

Aircraft Type: Marauder Serial number: FK 155 Radio call sign: Unit: 14 Sqn RAF

Summary: Marauder FK 155 of 14 Sqn RAF, British North African Forces, took off from Bone at 0510 hours on 9 May 1943, to carry out a shipping reconnaissance. Repeated requests for weather reports were not answered by FK 155, and the aircraft did not return to base after the mission.

Crew: RAAF 400940 Flt Sgt Russell, T G Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Fennell, P (2nd Pilot) RAAF 401007 WO Dyson, F V (Navigator) RAAF 401529 Flt Sgt Nicholas, W G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Armstrong, J W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Ayton, W H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it as recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

160 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403677 Warrant Officer NICKALLS, William

Source: NAA : A705, 166/29/28

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HZ 874 Radio call sign: Unit: 70 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HZ 874 of 70 Sqn RAF took off at 2042 hours on 2 July 1943 to attack Olcia. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 403677 WO Nickalls, W Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt McCarry, J P (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAF Sgt Bennett, G H (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Haywood, E J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Smith, G A (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries among the locals at La Maddalena, it was established that the aircraft was shot down and crashed in the sea between Palau and La Maddalena. Palau is on the north eastcoast of Sardinia, and La Maddalena is a small island off the coast approx 3 miles north of Palau.

As no trace of the missing aircraft or crew was found, it was recorded that the crew had lost their lives at sea.

161 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

428122 Flight Sergeant NICOLSON, Donald Tofft

Source: NAA : A705, 166/29/251

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: KH 210 Radio call sign: Unit: 355 Sqn RAF

Summary: Liberator KH 210 of 355 Sqn RAF was detailed on 2 May 1945 to bomb gun emplacements at Rangoon, Burma. The aircraft took off at 0051 hours on 2nd May from Sanbani, and at 0330 hours a message was received “position 20.52N, 89.33E, height 3000 feet, air speed 135mph”. From this it was assumed that the aircraft was returning with engine trouble and would have arrived at Sabani at 0630 hours, but the aircraft failed to arrive.

A search Catalina sighted wreckage and observed two crew clinging to the wreck badly injured.

Crew: RAF Sqn Ldr De Souza, G A Captain (1st Pilot) RAF Sqn Ldr Nicholson, J B VC DFC (Passenger) RAAF 434840 Flt Sgt Pullen, MH (2nd Pilot) RAF WO Spillard, J (Navigator) RAAF 428122 Flt Sgt Nicolson, D T (Wireless Operator Air) RCAF Flt Sgt Doherty, S A (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Flt Sgt Cameron, D U (Flight Engineer) RAF FO Hill, B (Air Gunner) RAF FO Calland, J (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Bell, R T (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Helsby, L (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Knightley, E L (Air Gunner)

Both Flt Sgt Pullen (RAAF) and Sgt Knightley (RAF) were rescued, and the body of Flt Sgt Doherty (RCAF) recovered. It was recorded that the remaining 9 crew members had lost their lives at sea.

162 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

409578 Sergeant NIXON, James Edwin

Source: NAA : A705, 166/29/55

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: LW 287 Radio call sign: Unit: 51 Sqn RAF

Summary: Halifax LW 287 of 51 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Snaith, near Goole, Yorkshire, at 1757 hours on 2 October 1943, to carry out mine laying operations in enemy shipping waters in the Baltic. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 409578 Sgt Nixon, J E Captain (Pilot) RCAF FO Colner, J G (Navigator) RAF Sgt MacLean, D (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Kent, E C (Wireless Operator) RAF Sgt Austin, G F (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Simpson, A F (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Nelson, G S (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

163 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405135 Sergeant NIXON, John Joseph

Source: NAA : A705, 163/147/235

Aircraft Type: Manchester Serial number: R 5833 Radio call sign: VN - Unit: 50 Sqn RAF

Summary: Manchester R 5833 of 50 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Skellingthorpe, Lincolnshire, at 2225 hours on 5 June 1942, detailed to carry out a “gardening” in the Gorse area. The aircraft failed to return to base.

Crew: RAF PO Garland, D W Captain (Pilot) RAAF 405135 Sgt Nixon, J J (2nd Pilot) RAF Sgt Moth, A (Observer) RAAF 402670 Sgt Ogilvie, R W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF PO Gill, R J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Gray, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt West, W R (Air Gunner)

PO Gill (RAF) who became a POW later reported that “the aircraft was shot down on 6th June and crashed into the sea off the French coast near Lorient. It hit the water and I remember nothing until I came to the surface and find blazing petrol on the water. No one else was to be seen. The Germans told me there was only one survivor”.

German documents stated that all were killed on 6 June, but the location of any graves was not stated. In 1948 it was concluded that the missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

164 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

422349 Warrant Officer NOBLE, Ian Richard Steele

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/33/253 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: BZ 943 Radio call sign: Unit: ATTD 86 SQN RAF

Summary: Liberator BZ 943 of 86 Sqn RAF took off at night on 18th November 1944 from RAF Station Tain, Scotland, on a non-operational training flight using the Leigh Light. The aircraft crashed in the sea about 11 miles north east of Banff, Scotland. Continuous searches for any survivors were made by aircraft and rescue launches.

Crew: RAAF 414079 PO Pordage, H (Navigator) RAAF 420389 WO Hough, G F (Navigator Bombaimer) RAAF 422349 WO Noble, I R S (Wireless Operator Air) RAAF 420786 WO Peck, R J (Wireless Operator Air) RAAF 421360 WO Mellon, J (Wireless Operator Air) RAAF 411302 FO Easterbrook, S D (Navigator Bombaimer) RAF Flt Lt Gates RAF Flt Sgt McCabe RAF PO Humphreys, J A (Wireless Operator Air) RNZAF FO Norrie

The remains of FO Easterbrook (RAAF) and Flt Sgt Humphreys (RAF) were recovered, but the remaining crew members were listed as having lost their lives at sea.

FO Easterbrook is buried in the Bellie Burial Ground, Moray shire, Scotland. PO Humphries is buried in the Livgerpool (Anfield) Cemetery, Lancashire, UK. The other missing crew members have no known grave, and their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

165 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400864 Sergeant NODRUM, Eric Charles

Source: NAA : A705, 163/147/172

Aircraft Type: Vilderbeest Serial number: K 4599 Radio call sign: Unit: 36 Sqn RAF

Summary: Vilderbeest K 4599 of 36 Sqn RAF was reported lost in enemy action over Endau, Malaya, on 26 January 1942. Other crew reported seeing K 4599 shot down by Japanese carrier borne fighter aircraft and crash in flames.

Crew: RAF Sgt Lyell, E (Pilot) RAAF 400864 Sgt Nodrum, E C (Observer) RAF Sgt Haggan, (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and searches it was recorded in 1951 that the missing crew had no known grave.

166 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

409215 Flight Sergeant NOONAN, Francis Arthur

Source: NAA : A705, 166/30/25

Aircraft Type: Beaufighter Serial number: V 8187 Radio call sign: Unit: 255 Sqn RAF

Summary: Beaufighter V 8187 off 255 Sqn RAF Middle East, took off from RAF Blida on 27 August 1943 to carry out a calibration flight of the Palermo RDF Station, Sicily. The aircraft was attacked some 5 miles east of Scotella by two Spitfires of an American Squadron who mistook the Beaufighter for a German JU88. Hits were seen on V 8187, and Flt Noonan a member of 40 Sqn RAF and who was a passenger in V 8187, was seen slumped in the cockpit.

The pilot attempted to make for land and covered about 40 miles to shore when one engine caught fire and he attempted to ditch in the sea but crashed. An empty rubber dinghy was sighted, but no trace of the missing crew was found.

Crew: RAAF 420086 Flt Sgt Waddell, R R (Pilot) RAAF 409215 Flt Sgt Noonan, F A (Pilot – Pax)

167 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

412176 Flight Sergeant NORMAN, Ernest Edward

Source: NAA : A705, 166/30/20

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: W 4893 Radio call sign: Unit: 1662 Conversion RAF

Summary: Lancaster W 4893 of No 1662 Conversion Unit RAF, took off from RAF Blyton near Gainsborough Lincolnshire, on 20 July 1943 to carry out a daytime training flight over the UK. The route was Blyton – Alston – St John – Isle of Man – Bardsey Island – Aberdovey – Thane – Binbrook – Maplethorpe – return to Blyton. Part of the flight was over the sea. The aircraft was to be at Binbrook at 1630 hours to carry out air firing.

Nothing was heard from the aircraft and it did not return to base. Despite extensive searches no trace was found of the missing aircraft or crew. It was thought possible that it had crashed in the Welsh mountains.

Crew: RAAF 412176 Flt Sgt Norman, E E Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Head, (Navigator) RAF Sgt Raisbeck, (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Haworth (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Lysaght (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt McCullock, (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Pearce, (Air Gunner)

In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

168 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402279 Sergeant NORTH, Hunter Arthur Aubrey

Source: NAA : A705, 163/147/124

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: Z 8868 Radio call sign: Unit: 57 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington Z 8868 of 57 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Feltwell, at 1920 hours on 29 September 1941 to attack military objectives at Genoa, Italy. At 0006 hours on 30 September a message was received from Z 8868 stating NAP. At 0341 hours a further message stated NOZ, and also requested a QDM and was given a bearing of 314 degrees. At 0409 hours at further QDM of 314 degrees was given, and later QDM’s at 0420 and 0502 hours of 315 degrees. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft after this, and it failed to return to base.

Crew: RAF Sgt Paul, J W Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Greenwood, A H (2nd Pilot) RAAF 402279 Sgt North, H A A (Observer) RCAF Sgt Postans, R (1st Wireless Operator) RAF Sgt Hudson, C E (2nd Wireless Operator) RCAF Sgt Chapman, G L (Air Gunner)

It was later recorded that a photograph had been recovered some time before 28 November 1941 near Schiermonnik Island, one of the Friesian Group of Islands off the north coast of Holland. A message on the photo stated that Sgt North (RAAF) and Sgt Postans (RCAF) had been in a dinghy for two days. No trace of the aircraft or missing crew was found, and it was assumed that the crew had lost their lives at sea.

169 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407180 Warrant Officer NOURSE, Arthur George Myers

Source: NAA : A705,163/147/147

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: BA 494 Radio call sign: Unit: 113 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim BA 494 of 113 Sqn RAF India, was reported missing on 25 May 1943. Parts of the wreckage of BA 494 was later found on the beach in Bahir Char district near Fenni, and also a revolver of one of the crew. The wreck was located on the riverside at Charkhandakir, which is about 6 miles south east of P.S.Sonagazi, and about 12 miles south sou’ west of Fenni. A body was also found but before it could be recovered, it was washed out by the tide.

Crew: RAF Sgt Lancaster, A N (Pilot) RAAF 407108 WO Nourse, A G M (Observer) RAF Sgt Anderson, G E (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

170 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

423174 Flight Sergeant O'BRIEN, George John Patrick

Source: NAA : A705, 166/31/336

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: RA 503 Radio call sign: Unit: 106 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster RA 503 of 106 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Metheringham, Lincoln, at 1330 hours on 12 March 1945 to attack Dortmund, Germany. RA 503 was one of fourteen squadron aircraft on the mission. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF WO Baker, F E Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Carter, D Y (Flight Engineer) RAF Flt Sgt Harding, H G (Navigator) RAF Flt Sgt Cooper W J (Air Bomber) RAAF 423174 Flt Sgt O’Brien, G J P (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Haw, K R (Mid Upper Gunner) RCAF Sgt Gillander, R H (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing crew had no known grave.

171 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403876 Sergeant O'BRIEN, John Ormond

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/87/224. Commonwealth War Graves records Micro Film 463 OAFH, W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses of the Second World War, Page 128, Volume 1942

Aircraft Type: Manchester Serial number: L 7387 Radio call sign: EA - Unit: ATTD 49 SQN RAF

Summary: Manchester L7387 of 49 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Scampton, Lincolnshire, at 1000 hours on 20 June 1942, to carry out a search in an area 53.40N to 53.50N and 01.40E to 3deg east. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 403876 Sgt J.O.O’Brien. (Pilot) RAAF 405162 Sgt T.F.B.McKenna. (Navigator) RAAF 401359 Sgt K.Allen, (Air Bomber) RAAF 402539 Sgt H.W.Price. Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAF Sgt Goldring. RAF Sgt H.J.Rogers. RAF Sgt CA.Garos.

The bodies of Sgts McKenna and Price, ( RAAF), were recovered from the sea. Sgt McKenna is buried in the Kviberg Cemetery, Sweden. Sgt Price is buried on the Island of Schiermonnikoog, (Vredenhof), Netherlands.

The remaining crew members were presumed to have lost their lives at sea and have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

172 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403761 Sergeant O'CONNELL, Peter

Source: NAA : A705, 163/148/275

Aircraft Type: Spitfire Serial number: AB 120 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 Photo Reconnaissance RAF

Summary: Spitfire AB 120 of No 1 Photo Reconnaissance Unit, RAF Benson, Oxford, took off from Mt Farm on the afternoon of 11 August 1942, to carry out an operational photo recce of the Wilhelmshaven and Kiel areas, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 403761 Sgt O’Connell, P (Pilot)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing pilot had lost his life at sea.

173 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

416697 Flight Sergeant O'DONNELL, John Patrick

Source: AWM 237(65) NAA : A705, 166/31/134 166/39/194 Commonwealth War Graves records. W R Chorley:RAF Bomber Command Losses Operational Training Units, 1940-1947. Page 268, Volume 7.

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: X 3805 Radio call sign: - H Unit: 20 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington X 3805 of No 20 Operational Training Unit RAF took off from RAF Losiemouth, Morayshire, Scotland, on 28 December 1943, for an operational training flight. The aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff when first the port and then the starboard engines failed. The aircraft crashed into the sea about 3 miles from land and north of Dallachy, Scotland. Rescue operations began immediately and four bodies were recovered but no survivors were found.

Crew: RAAF 426823 PO Boyd, H W Captain (Pilot) RAAF 416697 Flt Sgt O’Donnell, J P, (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAAF 417903 Sgt Thomas, J E (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAF Sgt W M Bridge RAF Sgt R Summers RAF Sgt K Dunkerly

The bodies of PO Boyd, Sgt’s Thomas, Bridge, and Summers are buried at Lossiemouth Burial Ground, Scotland. Both Flt Sgt O’Donnell and Sgt Dunkerly are listed as having lost their lives at sea, and have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK.

174 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

416784 Warrant Officer O'DONOGHUE, Desmond Pius

Source: NAA : A705, 166/31/183

Aircraft Type: Beaufighter Serial number: NE 664 Radio call sign: Unit: 236 Sqn RAF

Summary: Beaufighter NE 664 of 236 Sqn RAF took off from RAF North Coates, near Grimsby, Lincolnshire, together with three other squadron aircraft to carry out operations off the Dutch coast. At 2336 hours an attack was made by all the aircraft on enemy shipping, and after this nothing was seen or heard from ‘J’ for Johnny, NE 664, and the aircraft did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 416784 WO O’Donoghue, D P (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Allen, (Navigator Wireless)

In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

175 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402670 Sergeant OGILVIE, Robert William

Source: NAA : A705, 163/148/233

Aircraft Type: Manchester Serial number: R 5833 Radio call sign: VN - Unit: 50 Sqn RAF

Summary: Manchester R 5833 of 50 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Skellingthorpe, Lincolnshire, at 2225 hours on 5 June 1942, detailed to carry out a “gardening” in the Gorse area. The aircraft failed to return to base.

Crew: RAF PO Garland, D W Captain (Pilot) RAAF 405135 Sgt Nixon, J J (2nd Pilot) RAF Sgt Moth, A (Observer) RAAF 402670 Sgt Ogilvie, R W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF PO Gill, R J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Gray, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt West, W R (Air Gunner)

PO Gill (RAF) who became a POW later reported that “the aircraft was shot down on 6th June and crashed into the sea off the French coast near Lorient. It hit the water and I remember nothing until I came to the surface and find blazing petrol on the water. No one else was to be seen. The Germans told me there was only one survivor”.

German documents stated that all were killed on 6 June, but the location of any graves was not stated. In 1948 it was concluded that the missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

176 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

416071 Sergeant O'KEEFE, Geoffrey Aldysius

Source: NAA : A705, 166/31/1

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: W 5401 Radio call sign: Unit: 104 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington W 5401 of 104 Sqn RAF Middle East took off at 1754 hours on 6 January 1943 together with 7 other aircraft to bomb the docks at Tunis. As a result of bad weather over the target area, the formation changed course for Sousse. Heavy ack-ack fire was encounterwed at Sousse, and two aircraft reported seeing an explosion at 7000 feet at 2130 hours, and immediately after saw an aircraft on fire on the ground 3 to 5 miles SSW of Sousse. W 5401 failed to return to base.

Crew: RAF Sqn Ldr Strutt, L C DFC Captain (Pilot) RCAF Flt Sgt Yudell, I N (2nd Pilot) RAF PO Lonsdale, T (Observer) RAF Sgt Redmond, J J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 416071 Sgt O’Keefe, G A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Kellett, J J (Air Gunner)

The bodies of Sqn Ldr Strutt (RAF) and Flt Sgt Yudell (RCAF) were reported to have been recovered but the place of recovery and burial was not stated. Post war searches failed to find any trace of any burial site or graves nor any trace of the remaining missing crew members.

177 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405061 Sergeant O'KEEFFE, Claude Edward John

Source: NAA : A705, 163/148/292

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: L 7822 Radio call sign: Unit: 78 Sqn RAF

Summary: Halifax L 7822 of 78 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Linton-on-Ouse, Yorkshire, at night at 2009 hours on 26 September 1942 to carry out an operational mission. At 2302 hours a message was received ‘may be forced to land without further signal, both outer engines U/S, attacked by fighters, petrol shortage.’ The aircraft was known to be flying over the sea west of the Danish coast when the message was received. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft and it failed to return to base,

Crew: RAF PO Atkinson, R E Captain (Pilot) RCAF Sgt Gray, S (2nd Pilot) RCAF Sgt Ernst, L S (Observer) RAF Sgt Thomas, A (Air Bomber) RAAF 405061 Sgt O’Keefe, C E J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Crofton, W (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Bath, P J (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Lister, F (Air Gunner)

In 1948 it was concluded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

178 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402749 Sergeant OLDHAM, Edward Murray

Source: NAA : A705, 163/148/206

Aircraft Type: Spitfire Serial number: BL 249 Radio call sign: Unit: 131 Sqn RAF

Summary: Spitfire BL 249 of 131 (County of Kent) Sqn RAF took off at 1405 hours on 27 March 1942 to carry out a convoy patrol. The aircraft was returning to base after the patrol in company with another aircraft. Whilst over the sea in the vicinity of the Isle of Man, BL 249 broke away from its leader when both were trying to establish R/T communications with base. BL 249 was not seen again and it did not return to base.

It was thought that a contributory reason was that it may have been given an incorrect vector to steer back to base from its last known position, and that the aircraft may have been given a course to steer which directed it towards the middle of the Irish Sea.

Crew: RAAF 402749 Sgt Oldham, E M (Pilot)

179 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

412664 Flight Sergeant O'LOGHLEN, Patrick Francis

Source: NAA : A705, 166/31/92

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 142 Sqn RAF

Summary: A Wellington aircraft of 142 Sqn RAF, British North African Force took off from RAF Kairouan at 0030 hours on 7 August 1943 to attack Messina Beaches. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Sqn Ldr Thompson, A E Captain (Pilot) RAF PO Playfair, P J (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAF Sgt Marsh, W W (Bomb Aimer) RAF Sgt Elderson, W K (Wireless Telegraphist/Air Gunner) RAAF 412664 Flt Sgt O’Loghlen, P F (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

It was concluded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

180 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402604 Sergeant O'NEILL, James Cornelius

Source: NAA : A705, 163/148/340

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: W 4382 Radio call sign: VN - Unit: 50 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster W 4382 of 50 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Skellingthorpe, Lincolnshire, at 1705 hours on the night of 17/18th December 1942 to attack a target at Soltau, Germany. The aircraft failed to return to base and the loss was attributed to enemy action.

Crew: RAF Flt Lt Atkinson, J C, Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Martin, F (Flight Engineer) RAAF 401287 FO Rowling, P W (Navigator) RAAF 404622 PO Smith, H W J, DFM (Air Bomber) RAAF 402604 Sgt O’Neill, J C (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 407956 FO Walker, C W (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Reilly, J M (Air Gunner)

Post war investigations and enquiries failed to reveal any trace of the missing aircraft or crew, and in 1950 it was recorded that the crew had lost their lives with no known grave.

181 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

415949 Flight Sergeant O'NEILL, Richard Glassen

Source: NAA : A705, 166/31/159

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: LK 763 Radio call sign: EY – K Unit: 78 Sqn RAF

Summary: Halifax LK 763 of 78 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Brighton, near Selby, Yorkshire, at 0011 hours on 20 February 1944 to attack Leipzig, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Sgt Smith, J Captain (Pilot) RCAF Flt Sgt Coulter, R (Navigator) RAF Flt Sgt Douglas-Pulleyne, J (Bomb Aimer) RAF Sgt Reynolds, G (Wireless Operator) RAF Sgt Beal, G (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Mears, L E (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 415949 Flt Sgt O’Neill, R G (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing crew had no known grave.

182 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400354 Sergeant OPAS, Athol Louis

Source: NAA : A705, 163/148/267

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: AD 629 Radio call sign: Unit: 108 Sqn RAF.

Summary: Wellington AD 629 of 108 Sqn RAF took off at 1946 hours on 12 August 1942 to carry out an operational sortie against Tobruk. Nothing further was heard of the aircraft or crew after take off.

Crew: RAAF 402425 Sgt Watts, D.M., Captain, (Pilot) RAAF 402864 FO Gengos, W 2nd Pilot PO Harris, R, Navigator. RAAF 400354 Sgt Opas, A L Wireless Operator RAAF 402596 Sgt Hart, M.D. Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAF Sgt Taylor, J W. Rear Gunner

In 1948 it was recorded that all the crew lost their lives and have no known grave.

183 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407374 Flight Sergeant OSBORN, Stanley Albert

Source: NAA : A705, 166/31/25

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Z 7927 Radio call sign: Unit: 11 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim Z 7927 of 11 Sqn RAF took off at 1130 hours on 14 March 1943, together with 2 other Blenheims to drop incendiaries on enemy positions in Burma. At 1245 hours the formation was attacked by 9 enemy fighters. Z 7927 broke formation with its starboard engine smoking and crashed near the village of Hparabyn, Burma. The village is located about 25 miles north of Akyab, Burma.

Crew: RAAF 406409 PO Richardson, F H (Pilot) RAAF 401018 FO Williams, M G (Navigator Bombaimer) RAAF 407374 Flt Sgt Osborn, S A (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)

It was later established that FO Williams managed to extricate himself from the wreckage but was burned. He was taken by villagers to hospital and thence to Maungdaw hospital where he died of injuries. He was buried in the cemetery at Maungdaw. The villagers stated that both PO Richardson and Flt Sgt Osborn were killed instantly in the crash, and they were buried on high ground near the wreck of the aircraft and the grave marked with a wooden cross.

In 1949 a search party visited the scene of the crash which was located about half a mile from the village of Hparabyn, Burma at 20.41N, 92.34E. However the search party could not locate the grave of the two missing crew members and it was recorded that they had no known grave.

184 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400287 Sergeant PAINTER, Ernest George

Source: NAA : A705, 163/149/129

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: T 9381 Radio call sign: Unit: 6 Op Trg RAF

Summary: Hudson T 9381 of No 6 Operational Training Unit RAF was detailed to carry out daytime local flying practice in the vicinity of the drome on 29 October 1941. The local weather at the time was suitable for local flying. There was however a poor weather forecast and the crews were warned to keep a close watch on the weather.

About an hour after take off a snow storm developed over the drome. T 9381 was not seen again after the first take off, and intensive searches could not locate the missing aircraft or crew. All other aircraft in the air at the same time landed safely.

Crew: RAAF 400287 Sgt Painter, E G (Pilot) RAF Sgt Lloyd, B M

185 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403951 Flight Sergeant PARADISE, Reginald William

Source: NAA : A705, 166/32/6

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: V 9031 Radio call sign: Unit: 279 Sqn RAF

Summary: Hudson V 9031 of 279 Sqn RAF was detailed to carry out an ASZR search off the Lizzard. The aircraft took off at 0820 hours on 7 January 1943 from RAF Station St Eval, but nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 416140, Flt Sgt W.M.Arnold, Pilot. RNZAF Sgt J.D.Slater, Navigator Bombaimer. RAAF 403951 Flt Sgt.R.W.Paradise, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAF Sgt R.Bannister, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

186 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400599 Sergeant PARKER, Graham Burford

Source: NAA : A705, 163/149/166

Aircraft Type: Maryland Serial number: 1639 Radio call sign: Unit: 69 Sqn RAF

Summary: Maryland 1639 of 69 Sqn RAF was returning to Malta on 18 March 1942 from a recce patrol. When some 4 miles southwest of Filfola in the Malta area, it was attacked by enemy fighters and shot down into the sea. ASR searches were carried out but no trace of the aircraft or crew were found.

Crew: RAAF 400599 Sgt G.B.Parker, Pilot. RAAF 402275 Sgt R.K.Grimley, Observer. RAAF 402196 Sgt W.E.Anderson, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAF Sgt G.J.Relemaunt, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

187 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402391 Sergeant PARKER, Thomas Dudley

Source: NAA : A9301, Barcode 5049050

Aircraft Type: Hurricane Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 3 Sqn RAF

Summary: Sgt Parker of No 3 Sqn RAF based at RAF Station Hunsdon, with detachments at Manston and Shoreham, was reported missing on air operations on 12 October 1941. It is believed he parachuted from his Hurricane aircraft, was fired on and shot out of his parachute.

Crew: RAAF 402391 Sgt Parker, T D (Pilot)

188 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

415090 Sergeant PARKES, Jack Elliott

Source: NAA : A705, 166/32/36

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: BK 160 Radio call sign: Unit: 12 Op Trg RAF

Summary: Wellington BK 160 of No 12 Operational Training Unit RAF, was detailed to drop pamphlets in the Orleans area, France. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after it took off at 1907 hours on 19 February 1943 from RAF Chipping Warden, near Banbury, Oxfordshire, and it did not return to base. Orleans is approx 72 miles south west on Paris.

Crew: RAAF 415090 Sgt Parkes, J E (Pilot) RAAF 405260 Sgt Martin, A H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF PO Sheppherd RAF Sgt York RAF Sgt Kee

Following post war investigations and enquiries it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had no known grave.

189 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

408089 Flight Sergeant PARSONS, Charles James Silas

Source: NAA : A705, 163/149/180

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Z 7902 Radio call sign: Unit: 203 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim Z 7902 of 203 Sqn RAF took off at 0930 hours on 14 April 1942 from Bu Amud to carry out an operational recce over the Mediterranean. The aircraft was due back at base at 1530 hours, but it failed to return to base.

Crew: SRAF Flt Lt Bowker, M B (Pilot) RAAF 400518 Sgt Hayes, H J (Observer) RAAF 408089 Flt Sgt Parsons, C J S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

190 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

411372 Sergeant PATERSON, Frederick Harley

Source: NAA : A705, 166/32/32

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: W 4313 Radio call sign: SR – G Unit: 101 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster W 4313 of 101 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Holme-on-Spalding Moor, Yorkshire, at 1731 hours on 11 February 1943 to bomb Wilhelmshaven, Germany. The aircraft was due back at base at 2254 hours. Nothing was heard from W 4313 after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 405586 Flt Sgt Hiley, A E Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Spivey, E T (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Collins, R A (Navigator) RAAF 411372 Sgt Paterson, F H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Teviotdale, T (Bomb Aimer) RAF Sgt Bozier, R T (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 411259 Sgt Quinlan, S G (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was established that the aircraft crashed and exploded on impact on the edge of a sandbank near the Isle of Juist at approx 8pm on 11 February 1943. Juist is one of the Friesian Island group of islands off the German coast near the border with Holland. German documents had recorded that Sgt Paterson had been buried at Dunes cemetery Juist, but this had been found to be incorrect, and although it had been reported that six bodies of the crew had been recovered from the sea and buried on the island, exhaustive searches and exhumations had failed to establish the identity of any member of the crew.

It was subsequently recorded that the missing crew members had no known grave.

191 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

414825 Flight Sergeant PATERSON, James Everest

Source: NAA : A705, 166/32/160

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HE 657 Radio call sign: Unit: 104 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HE 657 of 104 Sqn RAF Middle East, took off from Hani West Landing Ground at 2108 hours on the night of 7 August 1943 to attack Cape Palmi, Italy. Cape Palmi is on the south west coast of Italy, approx 20 miles north east of Reggio. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Sgt Hall, K Captain (Pilot) RAAF 414825 Flt Sgt Paterson, J E (Navigator) RAF Sgt Garner, W (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Chauncy, P A R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 413679 Sgt Spalding, N W (Air Gunner)

Following intensive post war searches of the Cape {Palmi area, no trace of the missing aircraft or crew were found, and it was concluded that the crew had lost their lives at sea.

192 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405646 Sergeant PATTON, John Crockett

Source: NAA : A9301, Barcode 5524738 No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives

Aircraft Type: Mitchell Serial number: 41-12499 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 BOMB Group USAAF

Summary: Mitchell 41-12499 of No 13 Bombing Sqn, 3rd Bombardment Group, USAAF was reported missing on a combat mission to Milne Bay, New Guinea, on 25 August 1942. It had left Port Moresby on an unaccompanied flight.

Crew: RAAF 405646 Sgt Patton, J C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) No other crew details is available from the above file.

193 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400482 Sergeant PAUL, Maxwell William Elliot

Source: NAA : A705,163/149/116

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: V 6324 Radio call sign: Unit: 17 Op Trg Unit RAF

Summary: Blenheim V 6324 of No 17 Operational Training Unit RAF was flying in formation with two other aircraft on 12 October 1941. When approx 60 miles out to sea east of Filey, Yorkshire, the rear gunner of one of the aircraft reported V 6324 appeared to be in trouble emitting black smoke from an engine with the airscrew loosing revolutions. The aircraft executed a wide movement and then returned to the formation flying above and behind. The aircraft then attempted to gain height, but as it turned the engine apparently stalled and V 6324 dived into the sea. The other aircraft circled the position but no trace of wreckage or survivors was seen other than an oil patch.

ASR rescue boats and aircraft searched the area but nothing was found.

Crew: RAAF 400482 Sgt Paul, M W E (Pilot) RAAF 402451 Sgt Morgan, H B (Observer) RAF Sgt Hamer, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

It was later recorded that the missing crew ha lost their lives at sea.

194 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

416280 Flight Sergeant PEARCE, Allan Edgar

Source: NAA : A705, 166/32/31

Aircraft Type: Spitfire Serial number: BS 318 Radio call sign: Unit: 611 Sqn RAF

Summary: At 1520 hours on 11 February 1943, White Section with Flt Sgt Pearce (White 1) Leader flying Spitfire BS 318, and Sgt Davren, RAF (White 2), took off from Biggin Hill for a low level operational patrol. When patrolling at zero feet about ten miles off Beachy Head, White 2 saw his Leader’s aircraft touch the water and immediately disappear. White 2 gave a mayday and began a search followed immediately by an organised search but no trace of Flt Sgt Pearce was found. There was no enemy aircraft in the vicinity at the time.

Crew: RAAF 416280 Flt Sgt Pearce, A E (Pilot)

In 1948 it was recorded that Flt Sgt Pearce had lost his life at sea.

195 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

432969 Flight Sergeant PEARCE, Stanley David

Source: NAA : A705, 166/32/740

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: LM 177 Radio call sign: PM – Z Unit: 103 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster LM 177 of 103 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Elsham Wolds, Barnetby, Lincolnshire, was detailed to lay mines in enemy waters in the Aarhus Bay, Denmark. LM 177 took off at the appointed on the night of 4/5th April 1945 but nothing further was heard and the aircraft did not return to base.

Four other 103 Squadron aircraft took part in the mission, and when homeward bound from the Danish coast, members of another crew saw three aircraft shot down behind them but were unable to identify any individual aircraft. Two of the aircraft appeared to crash into the sea and one on the land. In each case the mines would have been already laid.

Crew: RAAF 414031 FO Hole, L, Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Kelly, E (Flight Engineer) RAAF 430123 Flt Sgt Jeffrey, S A (Air Bomber) RAAF 437854 Flt Sgt Hodge, C J (Navigator) RAAF 432969 Flt Sgt Pearce, S D (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 437300 FO Vallentine, V L (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 435489 Flt Sgt Shannon, E F (Rear Gunner)

In 1949 it was reported that all efforts to find any trace of the aircraft or crew had been unsuccessful and the crew had been recorded as missing lost at sea.

196 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

420786 Warrant Officer PECK, Reginald John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA: A705, 166/33/253 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: BZ 943 Radio call sign: Unit: ATTD 86 SQN RAF

Summary: Liberator BZ 943 of 86 Sqn RAF took off at night on 18th November 1944 from RAF Station Tain, Scotland, on a non-operational training flight using the Leigh Light. The aircraft crashed in the sea about 11 miles north east of Banff, Scotland. Continuous searches for any survivors were made by aircraft and rescue launches.

Crew: RAAF 414079 PO Pordage, H (Navigator) RAAF 420389 WO Hough, G F (Navigator Bombaimer) RAAF 422349 WO Noble, I R S (Wireless Operator Air) RAAF 420786 WO Peck, R J (Wireless Operator Air) RAAF 421360 WO Mellon, J (Wireless Operator Air) RAAF 411302 FO Easterbrook, S D (Navigator Bombaimer) RAF Flt Lt Gates RAF Flt Sgt McCabe RAF PO Humphreys, J A (Wireless Operator Air) RNZAF FO Norrie

The remains of FO Easterbrook (RAAF) and Flt Sgt Humphreys (RAF) were recovered, but the remaining crew members were listed as having lost their lives at sea.

FO Easterbrook is buried in the Bellie Burial Ground, Moray shire, Scotland. PO Humphries is buried in the Livgerpool (Anfield) Cemetery, Lancashire, UK. The other missing crew members have no known grave, and their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

197 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

408873 Flight Sergeant PEKIN, Stanley Thomas

Source: NAA : A705, 166/32/168

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: JD 458 Radio call sign: VR – C Unit: 419 Sqn Royal Canadian Air Force

Summary: Halifax JD 458 of No 419 (Moose) Sqn RCAF, took off from Middelton, St George, on 18 August 1943 to bomb Peenemunde, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 408873 Flt Sgt Pekin, S T Captain (Pilot) RAF FO Sparkes, P J (Navigator) RAF Sgt Gilvary, J K (Bomb Aimer) RAF Sgt Price, H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Baker, H C (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Davis, P P (2nd Gunner) RAF Sgt Ramm, E C (Rear Gunner)

The bodies of Sgt Ramm and Sgt Baker (RAF) were washed ashore at Rugen Island in the Baltic sea close to the north coast of Germany, and are interred in the Berlin (Heerstrasse) British Military Cemetery. It was later recorded that the remaining missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

198 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400182 Sergeant PENDER, Joseph James

Source: NAA : A705, 163/150/103

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Z 7418 Radio call sign: Unit: 55 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim Z 7418 of 55 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Fuka, at 1800Z hours in formation with a Blenheim flown by PO Downer, to carry out a sea sweep against enemy shipping reported off the coast of Cyrenaica, and return to Sidi Barrani. The sweep was carried out as ordered. As it became dark the formation leader put his formation keeping lights on for the 2nd aircraft to keep formation, which it did. It also switched on his navigation lights.

As they were still over enemy territory, the leader instructed 2nd Lt Murphy to switch off his navigation lights. He failed to comply with this order. The message was flashed by Aldis lamp. While passing Derna the 2nd aircraft disappeared from sight at approx 1700z hours. The leader continued on his flight and landed at Sidi Barrani at 1805Z. At approx 1835Z an aircraft circled Sidi Barrani and fired off the correct recognition signal cartridge. The aircraft did not attempt to land but made off in an easterly direction. It failed to re-appear. A search next day by 2 Blenheims from the Squadron failed to find any trace of the missing aircraft.

Crew: SAAF 2nd Lt Murphy (Pilot) RAAF 404282 PO MacDonald, J C (Observer) RAAF 400182 Sgt Pender, J J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)

In 1948 the search for the missing aircraft was abandoned, the crew being registered as having no known grave.

199 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

23113 Flight Sergeant PEPPERRELL, Archibald James

Source: NAA : A9301, 4513154. No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives.

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: JB 149 Radio call sign: SR - R2 Unit: 101 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster JB 149 of 101 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Market Rasen, Lincoln, at 1947 hours on 3 September 1943 to attack Berlin. The ETA back at base was 0430 hours on 4 September. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Hammond, F J Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Paddon, F D (Flight Engineer) RAAF 420651 Flt Sgt Fairbairn, G S (Navigator) RAAF 421134 Flt Sgt Singer, R J (Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Sedman, K W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Southwell, W A (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 23113 Flt Sgt Pepperrell, A J (Rear Gunner)

Both Flt Sgt Hammond (RAF) and Flt Sgt Singer (RAAF) became POW’s. In a statement by Flt Sgt Hammond, he reported “owing to the circumstances of the destruction of the aircraft, I was unable to see or contact my Navigator. I believe he was killed, although I did not see him or hear him at all, before I finally was able to leave the very damaged aircraft.”

Flt Sgt Singer reported “the aircraft crashed in the Berlin area. I baled out and was the first to leave the aircraft. The only knowledge of the other crew members is of the Pilot who was repatriated. I have never seen or heard of the other members.”

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing crew members had no known grave.

200 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

416698 Flight Sergeant PETCH, Robert Geoffrey

Source: NAA : A705, 166/32/136

Aircraft Type: Beaufighter Serial number: EL 273 Radio call sign: Unit: 27 Sqn RAF

Summary: Beaufighter EL 273 of No 27 Sqn RAF India, took off from Agartala on 29 June 1943 to carry out operations over enemy territory. EL 273 was last seen flying perfectly at about 1000/1500 feet, between the ferry south of Satthwa situated on the west coast of Burma (approx 17.48N) and Zigon approx 9 miles south and 3 to 4 miles inland. The aircraft failed to return to base.

Crew: RAAF 416698 Flt Sgt Petch, R G (Pilot) RAF Sgt Thomas, (Navigator Wireless)

It was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

201 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400355 Flight Sergeant PETERS, Albert Alfred Charles

Source: NAA : A705, 163/150/221

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: Z 8522 Radio call sign: Unit: 104 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington Z 8522 of 104 Sqn RAF took off on 9 October 1942 to attack Landing Grounds Nos 17 and 18 on night operations in Libya. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 402632 Flt Sgt E.L.Anderson, Captain (Pilot). RAF FO Newman, A.J., 2nd Pilot. RAAF 401347 Flt Sgt L.J.R.Govett, Observer. RAAF 400355 Flt Sgt A.A.C.Peters, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAAF 400348 Flt Sgt T.H.Howlett, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAF Sgt M.A.Ball, Wireless Operator/Air.

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had no known grave.

202 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

437562 Flight Sergeant PETSCHEL, Victor Edward

Source: NAA : A9301, Barcode 554 2095 No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives.

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: PA 973 Radio call sign: OF – C Unit: 97 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster PA 973 of No 97 (Strait Settlements) Sqn RAF, took off at 2335 hours from RAF Station Coningsby, Lincoln, UK, on 20 March 1945 to bomb a target at Bohlen. Weather clear. Visibility good. Flak over target moderate to intense. Aircraft did not return to base and no evidence as to loss or whether aircraft shot down over target. No messages received from aircraft.

Crew: RAAF 418813 Flt Lt Cottman, J D, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 432022 PO Murray, A G (Navigator) RAAF 428596 WO Arney, H J (Wireless Operator) RAAF 430103 Flt Sgt Coster, J S (Air Bomber) RAAF 437562 Flt Sgt Petschel, V E (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 430011 Flt Sgt Bull, L J (Rear Gunner) RAF Sgt Cross, J W (Flight Engineer)

With no trace of the aircraft or crew being found following post war investigations and enquiries, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

203 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

412679 Flight Sergeant PETTITT, Eric Noel

Source: NAA : A705, 166/32/196

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: AM 710 Radio call sign: Unit: 608 Sqn RAF

Summary: Hudson AM 710 of 608 Sqn RAF took off from its base in Sicily at 0252 hours on 14 September 1943 to conduct a U-Boat hunt. After takeoff the aircraft made two circuits of the drome. On the second circuit the ACP stated that he saw a ‘vapour trail’ from the starboard engine. Thinking the aircraft would land immediately the ACP gave it a green. The aircraft then left the circuit area on a course of 290 degrees at an approx height of 1000-1500 feet and was not seen again.

At approx 0310 hours a pilot of 235 Sqn stated that he saw flames on the surface of the water in position 3802N 1222E, approx four miles from the coast of Sicily. No trace of wreckage or the crew was found.

Crew: RAAF 411736 FO Bradley, B G S (Pilot) RAAF 412679 Flt Sgt Pettitt, E N (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 412721 Flt Sgt Sheldon, L T (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RCAF FO Cherer (Navigator)

204 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405800 Sergeant PHAIR, Robert Leslie Dunlop

Source: NAA : A705, 163/150/277

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: R 1163 Radio call sign: Unit: 11 Op Trg RAF

Summary: Wellington R 1163 of No 11 Operational Training Unit RAF took off at 1100 hours on 20 November 1942 to carry out a cross country training exercise. The crew were detailed to carry out line overlaps, simulation bombing and air firing over the sea. A message was received from the aircraft 15 minutes after take off, but nothing further was heard from R 1163 which failed to return to base. An ASR search found no trace of the missing aircraft or crew.

The route was Base – Market Raisen, Lincoln, - Maplethorpe – position 53.20N 01.35E – Maplethorpe - Market Raisen – Base.

Crew: RAAF 405800 Sgt Phair, R L D Captain (Pilot) RNZAF PO Clarke, C W (Navigator) RAF Sgt Connot, T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF PO Booth, A (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Flynn, R J (Air Gunner)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea off the Lincolnshire coast.

205 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407107 Warrant Officer PHELPS, Kenneth Ross

Source: NAA : A705, 166/32/27

Aircraft Type: Dakota Serial number: MA 929 Radio call sign: Unit: 31 Sqn RAF

Summary: Dakota MA 929 of 31 Sqn RAF, at Palam India, took off from Dinjun en route to Fort Hertz, Burma, at 1330 hours on 31 January 1943. The aircraft failed to arrive at its destination, and has not been located. It was last seen by a Hudson pilot at 1400 hours, flying at 7000 feet near Kamku and heading for Fort Hertz.

Crew: RAAF 401101 FO Campbell, H J M (1st Pilot) RAF Sgt Nicholls, J O (2nd Pilot) RCAF Sgt Sasoubon, J F (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 407107 WO Phelps, K R (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAF AC1 Williamson, T G (Fitter 11E) RAF Flt Lt Baugh, M C (Passenger)

WO Phelps has no known grave and his name is commemorated on the Singapore Memorial.

206 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

401394 Warrant Officer PHILLIPS, Douglas Frederick

Source: NAA : A705, 166/32/365

Aircraft Type: Spitfire Serial number: MK 935 Radio call sign: Unit: 131 Sqn RAF

Summary: Spitfire MK 935 of No 131 (County of Kent) Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Harrowbeer, Yelverton, South Devon, at 1700 hours on 23 April 1944 on a defensive sortie near the coast. After patrolling for some time over the Channel on vectors given by Control, the section was ordered to investigate ‘something’ at 5 miles ahead and nought feet. At this time the Section was flying at 1600 feet and above 10/10ths cloud.

WO Crawford (Section Leader) RAF ordered WO Phillips to remain above the clouds while he went down in an attempt to get below the cloud. Being unsuccessful, he returned above to find that WO Phillips had disappeared. Receiving no reply as to the position of his No 2, and deeming an immediate air search impossible due to the cloud, WO Crawford returned to base. An ASR search was conducted that evening, but searches by aircraft that evening or the next morning was not possible. It was presumed that the aircraft had crashed into the sea 30 miles south east of Bolt Head, UK.

Crew: RAAF 401394 WO Phillips, D F (Pilot)

It was recorded in 1949 that WO Phillips had lost his life at sea.

207 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407873 Sergeant PHILLIPS, Harold Arthur

Source: NAA ; A705, 163/150/213

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: R 5909 Radio call sign: VN - Unit: 50 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster R 5909 of 50 Sqn RAF took off From RAF Station, Swinderby, Lincolnshire, at 2302 hours on 22 September 1942 to attack Weimar, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Dickenson, G K Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Trottier, W H (Flight Engineer) RAAF 400981 Sgt Gotts, R A (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAAF 403161 Sgt Carnley, J W (Air Bomber) RAF Flt Sgt Wade, H J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 401258 Sgt Watson, C F Air Gunner) RAAF 407873 Sgt Phillips, H A (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was established that the aircraft had exploded in the air and crashed in the Baltic Sea off the Isle of Laaland, Denmark. The bodies of Sgt Carnley and Sgt Watson (RAAF) were washed ashore on the Isle of Laaland and are buried in the Svin Churchard Cemetery, Denmark. It was recorded in 1949 that the remaining crew members had lost their lives at sea.

208 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407590 Flight Sergeant PIERSON, Cedric Howie

Source: NAA : A705, 163/151/65

Aircraft Type: Baltimore Serial number: AG 843 Radio call sign: Unit: 223 Sqn RAF

Summary: Baltimore AG 843 of 223 Sqn RAF when attacking a target in the Middle East on 1st September 1942 was shot down by heavy ack-ack fire. After dropping its bomb load, the aircraft was seen to receive a direct hit, the port engine was seen to fall away, and the aircraft went straight down and crashed on the ground in flames. One member of the crew baled out.

Crew: RAF WO Carruthers, PW (Pilot) - became POW. RAAF 407590 Flt Sgt Pierson, C H (Observer) RAF Sgt Hargreaves, E W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Cherrington, R A (Air Gunner)

It was recorded in 1948 that any graves of the three missing crew members could not be located.

209 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

423255 Warrant Officer PINKERTON, Harrie Irwin

Source: NAA : A705, 166/32/306

Aircraft Type: Spitfire Serial number: LZ 915 Radio call sign: Unit: 253 Sqn RAF

Summary: Spitfire LZ 915 of 253 Sqn RAF was one of a section of four squadron aircraft detailed to attack enemy gun positions on the northern tip of Rab Island approx 40 miles SSE of Fiume, Italy, on 17 March 1945 in position 14.50E, 44.45N.

The first three aircraft of the Section over the target experienced no flak, but as No 3 broke away he was called up by LZ 915 at No 4 position, and on looking back saw the aircraft was at 150 feet and streaming white smoke. WO Pinkerton said he was going to bale out, but was ordered to climb first. LZ 915 appeared unable to gain sufficient height, and commenced a gentle glide towards the sea.

There was no further R/T conversation with LZ 915 which entered the sea slightly tail down, travelled a few yards on the water and then stood on its nose before disappearing a few seconds later. The other aircraft carried out a thorough search of the area, but WO Pinkerton was not seen again. Nothing more was seen of the LZ 915 apart from a long range fuel tank which came to the surface and then disappeared after ten minutes.

Crew: RAAF 423255 WO Pinkerton, H I (Pilot)

It was later recorded that WO Pinkerton had lost his life at sea.

210 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

411604 Warrant Officer PIVOTT, Victor William Arthur

Source: NAA : A705, 166/32/480

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: EV 867 Radio call sign: Unit: 159 Sqn RAF

Summary: Liberator EV 867 of 159 Sqn RAF, India, was detailed to lay mines in the approaches to Port Blair anchorage on Andaman Islands in the Bay of Bengal, on 28 August 1944. The operation was timed to be carried out immediately after dark at 2000 hours. The aircraft failed to return to base.

Crew: RAF FO Garden, Q Captain (Pilot) RAF FO Robinson, C (2nd Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Lockwood, C E (Navigator Bombaimer) RAAF 411604 WO Pivott, V W A (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Hall, L (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Towers, K (Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt King, J (Spare Gunner) RAF Flt Sgt Maude, A H (Tail Gunner)

After post war searches and investigations, it was recorded that the missing crew had no known grave.

211 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

8651 Flight Sergeant PLANTE, Robert Erskine

Source: NAA : A9301 Barcode 4555874 No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives.

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: LM 175 Radio call sign: Unit: 1656 Conversion 71 Base RAF

Summary: Lancaster LM 175 of No 1656 Conversion Unit RAF took off from RAF Station Lindholme, Doncaster, Yorkshire, after 11pm on 5 February 1945 on a night cross country non operational training flight. The route was from Base – Benson – Shrewsbury – The Skerries – Strumble Head – Bury St Edmunds – Whittlesey and return to Base. The aircraft would have been over the sea for approx half an hour.

Contact was maintained until 12.55am on the 6 February, when the plane was in the vicinity of Shrewsbury, Shropshire. Nothing further was heard from LM 175 and the aircraft did not return to Base.

Crew: RAAF 8651 Flt Sgt R.E.Plante, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 428116 Flt Sgt L.C.Barrett, Navigator Bombaimer. RAF Sgt Skail RAF Sgt McKie. RAF Sgt Ralph. RAF Sgt Macfarlane. RAF Sgt Side.

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

212 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400122 Sergeant POTT, John Henry

Source: NAA : A705, 163/152/141

Aircraft Type: Bombay Serial number: L 5447 Radio call sign: Unit: 216 Sqn RAF

Summary: Bombay L 5447 of 216 Sqn RAF, was detailed to drop parachute troops in the Tmimi-El Gazala area in the Middle East on the night of 16/17th November 1941. The aircraft was due back at base at 3.30am on the 17th .

The aircraft was heard over the Fuka satellite drome at that time but it did not land. A message at 4.30am from the aircraft stated it had made a forced landing, was undamaged and requested a bearing to fix its location. This was given and a dawn search by other aircraft was made. A further message was then received from L 5447 saying it was ‘in the air’. Then another message saying ‘stand by will call you later.’

A report from the Army confirmed that an aircraft was heard to land but it took off while the Army were trying to locate it. At dawn a flight of Hurricanes searched in the Sidi Barrani area to Tobruk, but failed to locate the missing aircraft, which failed to return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt West, C E Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Martin, D S (Pilot) RAF Sgt Heard, R P (Observer) RAAF 400122 Sgt Pott, J H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF LAC Gowing, R W (Flight Rigger) RAF AC1 Humphries, W (Flight Mechanic) Army Passengers : 1 Officer plus 11 other ranks.

Later information established that the aircraft was shot down by a German night fighter over El Gazala. It crashed 10 miles east of El Gazala approx 500 yards from the coast. All of the crew and passengers became POW’s, with the exception of Sgt Pott (RAAF) missing with no known grave, PO Martin (RAF) buried in the Acroma cemetery, and AC1 Humphries (RAF) buried in the Benghazi Military cemetery.

213 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402822 Flight Sergeant POTTER, Frederick George

Source: NAA : A705, 163/152/88

Aircraft Type: Hurricane Serial number: BP 499 Radio call sign: Unit: 213 Sqn RAF

Summary: No 213 (Ceylon) Sqn RAF was brought to a state of readiness at 1800 hours on 1st September 1942 at Edou and ordered to fly over Burg-el-Arab, when they sighted and engaged enemy aircraft. BP 499 flown by Flt Sgt Potter took part in the engagement and was last seen flying west. Nothing further was seen or heard from BP 499 which failed to return to base.

The body of Flt Sgt Potter was later found by the 10th Hussars, identified and buried in the El Alamein area in the Middle East. Post war searches could not locate the grave of Flt Sgt Potter and it was recorded that he has no known grave.

Crew: RAAF 402822 Flt Sgt Potter, F G (Pilot)

214 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

424680 Flight Sergeant POULSON, Leslie William

Source: NAA : A705, 166/33/260

Aircraft Type: Stirling Serial number: LK 143 Radio call sign: Unit: 138 Sqn RAF

Summary: Stirling LK 143 of 138 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Tempsford at 0035 hours on 3 December 1944, together with other aircraft of the squadron, on a special mission to drop supplies and containers over Denmark. The drop positions were 56.26N, 10.35E, and 56.33N, 10.12E. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF FO Nichols, G F Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Golding, J A (Navigator Bombaimer) RAF Flt Sgt Harris, J G (Air Bomber) RAAF 424680 Flt Sgt Poulson, L W (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Filer, A W (Air Gunner) RAF Flt Sgt Terrell, C E (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Butler, A C (Flight Engineer)

Following post war searches and investigations which could find no trace of the missing aircraft or crew, it was considered probable that the aircraft came down in the North Sea, and that the crew had lost their lives at sea.

215 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404656 Sergeant POWELL, Lance Sydney

Source: NAA : A705, 163/152/177

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: 27899 Radio call sign: Unit: 45 Sqn RAF

Summary: On 14March 1942, Blenheim 27899 from 45 Sqn RAF piloted by Sgt Powell was detailed to carry out a low level offensive recce of the Lower Irrawaddy – Mingaladon – Himawbi Road area, Burma. The aircraft took off from Magwe drome at approx 1530 hours but did not return to base.

The following day one aircraft went out on a search, but owing to low cloud and general weather conditions being bad, they found no trace of the missing aircraft or crew.

Crew: RAAF 404656 Sgt Powell, L S (Pilot) RAAF 400526 Sgt Connor, L W H (Observer) RAAF 407496 PO Eden, J J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner)

In 1953 following searches by the British Far Eastern Graves Service, it was reported that “the aircraft crashed in the Lower Irrawaddy area of southern Burma about half a mile from the Mingaladon – Hmawbi road. The aircraft exploded on impact and all three would have been killed instantaneously. Their bodies were thrown from the aircraft and later cremated by the local villagers who witnessed the crash and gave the information to the search party”. All crew recorded as missing with no known grave.

216 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

401148 Warrant Officer POWER, James Renton

Source: NAA : A705, 166/33/96

Aircraft Type: Beaufighter Serial number: LZ 142 Radio call sign: Unit: 39 Sqn RAF

Summary: Beaufighter LZ 142 of 39 Sqn RAF took off from Grottaglie Landing Ground, South Italy, at 1125 hours on 6 November 1943, on a transit flight to Sisi Amer, Tunisia. Bad weather was encountered on the trip. The aircraft was last seen heading in a south easterly direction from Grottaglie.The last report which was picked up by other aircraft of the squadron, was at approx 1230 hours. This reported that the aircraft was crossing the coast (presumably the Italian or Sicilian coast) and steering a course of 187deg.

This last report was apparently from LZ 142, although the last letter in the call sign was that of another aircraft of the Squadron.

Crew: RAAF 401148 WO Power, J R (Pilot) RAF Sgt Paul, W D (Navigator Wireless)

Nothing was found from post war searches in Sicily and Southern Italy, and it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

217 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402806 Sergeant POWER, John

Source: NAA : A705, 163/152/197

Aircraft Type: Kittyhawk Serial number: AK 917 Radio call sign: Unit: 250 Sqn Royal Air Force (SOUDAN

Summary: Kittyhawk AK 917 of No 250 (Soudan) Sqn RAF, on 10 July 1942 was engaged on a fighter sweep in the Middle East. AK 917 was acting as escort to Sqn Ldr Hayson, whose aircraft was damaged in an attack on enemy Landing Ground 21 and was flying at low speed. Enemy aircraft were encountered and it was believed that AK 917 was shot down by an ME 109.

Crew: RAAF 402806 Sgt Power, J (Pilot)

Post war searches and investigations did not find any trace of the missing aircraft or pilot and in 1948 it was recorded that Sgt Power had no known grave.

218 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

413657 Sergeant POWER, Linsay Joseph

Source: NAA : A705, 166/33/63

Aircraft Type: Baltimore Serial number: AH 111 Radio call sign: Unit: 75 Op Training RAF

Summary: Baltimore AH 111 of No 75 Operational Training Unit RAF took off at 1425 hours on 14th August 1943 on a navigational exercise over the Mediterranean. The aircraft did not return to base from this exercise.

Crew: RAAF 9301 Sgt Yeates, I M Captain (Pilot) RAAF 416864 Flt Sgt Lacey, R G (Observer) RAAF 413657 Sgt Power, L J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) SAAF 2nd Lieut Caine, K P (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

It was later established from Sgt Yeates who survived the crash that “ when over the sea 25 minutes after take off, white smoke emitted from the port engine. At 1513 hours a course was set for base, and shortly after the port engine burst into flames. Yeates warned the crew that he would ditch the aircraft. After ditching both the Pilot and Navigator (Flt Sgt Lacey) climbed on to the wing of the aircraft. Lt Caine was still in the turret trying to open the emergency escape window. Sgt Power was lying on the floor of the aircraft. The aircraft sank very suddenly and both Caine and Power went down with the aircraft.

Both Yeates and Lacey wearing Mae wests stayed together in the vicinity by floating and swimming to stay warm. During the night the breeze freshened and Flt Sgt Lacey swallowed a fair amount of water. At 0700 hours it was decided to swim for the shore which was in sight. Lacey was weak and delirious and progress was slow. At 1630 hours he stopped talking and he was apparently dead.

An hour later Sgt Yeates was picked up by the Polish destroyer Salzac. The body of Flt Sgt Lacey was also recovered and artificial respiration applied but without success. Flt Sgt Lacey was then buried at sea. Although the pilot survived this accident, he later as FO Yeates was reported missing on 14 July 1944 when serving with 459 Sqn RAAF.

219 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403786 Sergeant POYNTING, Kenneth Hastings

Source: NAA : A705, 166/33/48

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: R 1162 Radio call sign: Unit: 27 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington R 1162 of No 27 Operational Training Unit, RAF, took off shortly before midnight on 25 June 11942, on a night operation against Bremen, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base. Other crews reported that the aircraft was possibly shot down over the target.

Crew: RCAF PO Lamb, T F Captain (Pilot) RAAF 405174 Sgt Cox, N H (Observer) RAAF 403940 Sgt Mathers. J B (Observer) RAAF 403786 Sgt Poynting, K H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 400442 Sgt Synnot, J M (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

220 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403485 Sergeant PRIESTLEY, Samuel Albert Gaston

Source: NAA : A705, 163/152/201

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HX 489 Radio call sign: Unit: 15 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington HX 489 of No 15 Operational Training Unit RAF, was in transit from RAF Portreath to the Middle East. It took off from North Front, Gibraltar en route to Malta at 1501 hours on 24 July 1942. Approx 4 hours after departure an SOS was received from the aircraft, but nothing further was heard and HX 489 did not arrive at its destination.

Two Wellingtons and two Hudson aircraft which left Gibraltar for Malta on 25 July were instructed to keep a look out for the missing HX 489, but no trace of the missing aircraft or crew was seen.

Crew: RAF PO Champion Jones, P S Captain (Pilot) RAAF 403485 Sgt Priestley, S A G (2nd Pilot) RAF Sgt Kennedy, J R (Observer) RAF PO Grundy, E W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Dolan, R G H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Thomas, P E (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

221 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

425549 Flight Sergeant PRONGER, Harold William

Source: NAA : A705, 166/33/144

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: EE 176 Radio call sign: Unit: 61 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster EE 176 of 61 Sqn RAF of RAF Station Conningsby, was detailed along with other aircraft of the Squadron to attack Nurnberg, Germany on the night of 30/31st March 1944. EE 176 had successfully attacked the target and on nearing the English coast on the return journey at about 5.30am on the 31st March, a violent electrical storm was encountered. The pilot did his best to avoid the storm, but finally had to fly through the storm of snow and sleet.

Th\e aircraft was struck by a flash of vivid blue lightning, and the pilot and other crew members were temporarily blinded. As a result of this the aircraft rolled out of control and with the pilot helpless for the time being, he ordered abandon aircraft by parachute. When the aircraft had fallen to a height of 1000 feet over the sea, the pilot’s eyesight commenced to come back, and he regained control.

On checking over the crew he found that Flt Sgt Pronger (RAAF) plus one other crew member had baled out with chute and Mae West. The others were too stunned and blinded to obey the order. A message was passed to ASR and at first light searches were conducted but no trace of the two missing crew members were found. The aircraft landed at 0600 hours at Little Snoring.

Crew: RAAF 415635 FO Forrest, J S Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Davies, A H (Flight Engineer) RAF Flt Sgt Wood, J R S (Navigator) RAF Sgt Newman, D C (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Darben, L G (Wireless Operator Air) : Missing. RAAF 425549 Flt Sgt Pronger, H W (Air Gunner) : Missing RAF Sgt Macgie, J (Air Gunner)

It was recorded in 1949 that the two missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

222 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

416998 Warrant Officer PUGH, John Halstead

Source: NAA : A705, 166/33/174

Aircraft Type: Typhoon Serial number: MN 456 Radio call sign: Unit: 175 Sqn RAF

Summary: Typhoon MN 456 of 175 Sqn RAF flown by WO Pugh at 0845 hours on 5 June 1044 when returning from an operational sortie on a target west of Cherbourg Harbour, France, reported that his engine had cut out and efforts to pick it up were of no avail. Losing height he baled out at 3000 feet about 15 miles north of Cherbourg Harbour. The parachute drifted and he struck the water south east of a patch of oil caused by the aircraft crash.

The seven accompanying aircraft of the squadron orbited the spot. The sea was very rough and the pilot and chute were lost sight of soon after he entered the water. The pilot was still attached to the chute once he hit the water. No dinghy was seen. The squadron remained over the spot for some time, several maydays and fixes were obtained, and the last aircraft left the scene after 20 minutes. Another Squadron of Typhoons stayed over the spot until 1330 hours when the search was called off with no trace of the missing pilot being seen. There was no evidence that the aircraft had been hit by flak.

Crew: RAAF 416998 WO Pugh, J H (Pilot)

223 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405878 Warrant Officer QUINE, Robert

Source: NAA : A705, 166/34/5

Aircraft Type: Spitfire Serial number: JK 511 Radio call sign: Unit: 152 Sqn RAF

Summary: Spitfire JK 511 of 152 (Hyderabad) Sqn RAF, was Red 4 in a formation of 8 aircraft detailed to cover Sicilian beaches on 12 July 1943. Enemy opposition was encountered and the formation broke up into sections. JK 511 and it’s No 1 were last seen immediately before combat ensued.

At the end of the patrol the formation Leader instructed Red section to rendezvous at 7000 feet over Gela, and an acknowledgement to this order was given by Red 3. There was no acknowledgement by JK 511 and nothing was seen of the aircraft leaving the target area.

Crew: RAAF 405878 WO Quine, R (Pilot)

It was later recorded that it was assumed that WO Quine had lost his life at sea.

224 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

411259 Sergeant QUINLAN, Sydney George

Source: NAA : A705, 166/34/1

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: W 4313 Radio call sign: SR – G Unit: 101 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster W 4313 of 101 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Holme-on-Spalding Moor, Yorkshire, at 1731 hours on 11 February 1943 to bomb Wilhelmshaven, Germany. The aircraft was due back at base at 2254 hours. Nothing was heard from W 4313 after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 405586 Flt Sgt Hiley, A E Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Spivey, E T (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Collins, R A (Navigator) RAAF 411372 Sgt Paterson, F H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Teviotdale, T (Bomb Aimer) RAF Sgt Bozier, R T (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 411259 Sgt Quinlan, S G (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was established that the aircraft crashed and exploded on impact on the edge of a sandbank near the Isle of Juist at approx 8pm on 11 February 1943. Juist is one of the Friesian Island group of islands off the German coast near the border with Holland. German documents had recorded that Sgt Paterson had been buried at Dunes cemetery Juist, but this had been found to be incorrect, and although it had been reported that six bodies of the crew had been recovered from the sea and buried on the island, exhaustive searches and exhumations had failed to establish the identity of any member of the crew.

It was subsequently recorded that the missing crew members had no known grave.

225 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407648 Sergeant RAMSEY, John Edward

Source: NAA : A705, 163/155/105

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: FH 427 Radio call sign: Unit: 48 Sqn RAF

Summary: Hudson FH 427 of 48 Sqn RAF took off at 1401 hours on 10 August 1942 from Lossiemouth, Scotland, to carry out a ‘North Bert’ patrol which was extended northwards. The ETA of FH 427 back at Base was 2000 hours. No message was received from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 400838 PO Watts, G.R., Captain (Pilot). RCAF Sgt G.R.Ash, Navigator. RAAF 407648 Sgt J.E.Ramsey, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAAF 407817 Sgt R.K.Bannear, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner.

PO Watts (RAAF) body was recovered near Vigra Island on 18 August 1942 and was buried in Stavne cemetery, Trondheim, Norway. The remaining missing crew members were recorded as having no known grave.

226 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

416702 Warrant Officer RAYNER, Dudley Royce

Source: NAA : A705, 166/35/228

Aircraft Type: Beaufighter Serial number: EL 505 Radio call sign: Unit: 177 Sqn RAF

Summary: Beaufighter EL 505 of 177 Sqn RAF, India, took off at 0750 hours on 23 February 1944 together with three other squadron aircraft to attack oil installations in Burma, as well as attack Japanese road and rail communications in Central Burma.

EL 505 was last seen at 0930 hours during an attack by the whole formation on an oil pipe line at Kanhla, Burma in position 19.35N 95.11E. The aircraft was seen to draw away and is thought to have carried out an individual attack upon objectives which had been noticed. At this time, two other aircraft were compelled to take violent evading action against ack-ack fire from the ground. EL 505 was not seen again and it did not return to base after the mission.

Crew: RAAF 416702 WO Rayner, D R (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Dinham, G A (Navigator Wireless)

After post war searches and enquiries, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

227 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

417118 Flight Sergeant READ, Graham Sydney

Source: NAA : A705, 166/35/160

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: JB 120 Radio call sign: LQ – D Unit: 405 Sqn Royal Canadian Air Force

Summary: Lancaster JB 120 of 405 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Gransden Lodge, Bedfordshire at 1945 hours on the night of 27/28th September 1943, to attack Hannover, Germany. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RCAF FO St Louis, B A Captain (Pilot) RCAF PO Long, S N (Navigator) RCAF PO Trippe, T P (Bombaimer) RCAF Flt Sgt Lowther, J C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 417118 Flt Sgt Read, G S (Air Gunner) RAF WO Goldspink, W E (Air Gunner) RAF PO Slade, S J (Flight Engineer)

Following post war searches and investigations, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing crew had no known grave.

228 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407277 Sergeant READ, Lindley Russell

Source: NAA : A705, 163/156/87

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Z 9619 Radio call sign: Unit: 203 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim Z 9619 of 302 Sqn RAF took off at 0700 hours on 13 October 1941 to carry out a routine reconnaissance patrol over the Mediterranean. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF PO Washington, G (Pilot) RAAF 407277 Sgt Read, L R (Observer) RAF Sgt Bremner, C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

229 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

427548 Flight Sergeant READER, Gordon Sydney

Source: NAA : A705, 166/35/360

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: MZ 289 Radio call sign: - J Unit: 102 Sqn RAF

Summary: Halifax MZ 289 took off at 1755 hours on 17 September 1944 to carry out an operational training flight over the North Sea and drop bombs at position 53.30N, 02.10 E about 55 miles from the east coast. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft which did not return to base.

When the aircraft was overdue 30 minutes, Control (Pocklington) informed No 42 Base at 1910 hours. Two Warwicks were sent out by RAF Chatham with flares but with no result. Further aircraft searches the next day from Group 4 and Group 6 were unsuccessful.

Crew: RAF Capt Thompson, R C Captain (Pilot) RAAF 427548 Flt Sgt Reader, G S (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAF Sgt White, R L (Air Bomber) RAF WO Locke, H L (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Gibson, G B (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Greening, G V (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Atkinson, R (Flight Engineer)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

230 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407877 Warrant Officer REED, Raymond George

Source: NAA : A705, 166/35/97

Aircraft Type: Baltimore Serial number: FA 331 Radio call sign: Unit: 55 Sqn RAF

Summary: Baltimore FA 331 of 55 Sqn RAF, Middle East, was flying no five in the Leading Box of a formation of 24 Baltimores attacking the Trapani Milo drome, Sicily at 1057 hours on 9th July 1943 from 9500 feet.

Heavy ack-ack was encountered over the target. FA 331 was seen to shoot vertically upwards for at least 2000 feet, and slowly commence a spin which continued until the aircraft was lost sight of by the lead formation. One of the following aircraft thought a parachute opened from the aircraft but this was unconfirmed. The aircraft was not seen to hit the ground.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Baines, A W (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Jefferson, T (Navigator Bombaimer) RAAF 407877 WO Reed, R G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Flt Sgt Whitfield, C (Air Gunner)

Flt Sgt Jefferson (RAF) who became a POW, in a later statement said that “he believed WO Reed had been killed. He did not bale out but crashed with the aircraft. I was informed by the German and Italian authorities that Reed was dead and had been buried near the crashed aircraft.”

Following post war enquiries and investigations re. the place of burial, it was recorded that WO Reed and the other two missing crew members, had no known grave.

231 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405084 Sergeant REES, Alun Griffiths

Source: NAA : A705, 163/156/211

Aircraft Type: Sunderland Serial number: E 6029 Radio call sign: Unit: 422 Sqn Royal Canadian Air Force

Summary: Sunderland E 6029 of No 422 (Flying Yachtsman) RCAF, was engaged in a transit flight on 19 December 1942, and on landing at Oban, Firth of Lorne, Scotland, in moderately rough seas, the aircraft struck a wave considerably larger than the average, and broke in two. Rescue launches were immediately on the scene and 15 survivors were rescued, but there was no trace of Sgt Rees (RAAF) and two other members. Two further bodies were later recovered.

Crew: RAF Flt Lt Reed, J T RCAF WO Burt-Gorrans, H F (1st Pilot) RCAF FO Potter, J E (Observer) RCAF PO Goggin, H A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RCAF Sgt Channey, C E (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RCAF Sgt Currie, B B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Tait, J H R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Webster, R J (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Luke, J (Flight Engineer) RCAF LAC Allen, W A (Rigger) Plus 10 Passengers including 405084 Sgt Rees A G (RAAF)

It was later recorded that Sgt Rees (RAAF) had lost his life at sea.

232 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

409448 Flight Sergeant REGAN, George Frederick

Source: NAA : A705, 166/35/99

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: N 6183 Radio call sign: Unit: 11 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim N 6183 of 11 Sqn RAF, India, was on of 6 aircraft which took off on 9 July 1943 to carry out an operational raid on the Taungup Road between Yegauk and Shaukpin, Burma. The aircraft was last seen at a height of 500 feet with smoke pouring out of the port engine, which then burst into flames. It crashed into a hillside about 10 miles north west of Yegauk.

Crew: RAAF 409448 Flt Sgt Regan, G F (Pilot) RAF Sgt Smith, M K (Navigator) RAF Sgt Rowan, G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded that the missing crew had no known grave.

233 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400261 Sergeant REID, John Ruskin

Source: NAA : A705, 163/156/148

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 84 Sqn RAF

Summary: On 1 March 1942, RAAF Flt Sgt Reid an Air Gunner of 84 Sqn RAF was in a Mr Jackson’s house at Soebang. He left in a car accompanied by an RAF Sgt and a Dutchman with the intention of returning to Kaladjate. The Japanese arrived a few minutes later and some firing was heard. The above group did not arrive at their destination of Kaladjate.

A Sgt Sayer, G W who was subsequently killed stated that Reid drove from Mr Jackson’s house to the nearest garage for fuel. Japanese armoured cars approached the garage and Reid was seen to fall to the ground wounded. It was not at the time whether Sgt Sayer was there at the time or his story was repeating hearsay.

Sgt Reid was a regular member of Sgt Geappen’s crew. Sgt Geappen and crew were killed in the crash of a Blenheim aircraft on 16 February 1942 which had left Palembang to proceed to Bandoeng, Java. It encountered bad weather and was forced to return to Palembang, and crashed into the hillside at Lahat. At the time it was thought that Flt Sgt Reid was in this aircraft but it was later established that Flt Sgt Reid had travelled in another plane from Palembang which had been forced to return to Palembang. Reid was later killed on 1 March 1942 by advancing Japanese troops. (A705, 163/116/31 refers).

234 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404045 Sergeant RHODES, Leslie Colin

Source: NAA : A705, 163/156/89

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: V 6228 Radio call sign: Unit: 55 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim V 6228 of 55 Sqn RAF was detailed on 20th October 1941 to carry76 out a high level formation bombing attack on Gambut drome. The formation was led by 2nd Lt Haarhoff and Sgt Askew in ‘V’ formation and took off at 0525 GMT. A formation of five aircraft from 113 Sqn also participated in the attack.

The run up to the target was from 40 miles out to sea, height 15000 feet, and the bombs were dropped at 0714GMT. S/Ldr Blackmore turned to the right and headed out to sea in a gradual dive. The formation was then attacked from astern by four ME109’s. V 6228 was hit in the port engine by cannon shell and machine gun bullets just forward of the gun turret. The aircraft lost speed and height and as he went down he waved on Haarhoff and Askew. V 6228 was seen to land on water approx 40 miles north of Gambut with two ME 109’s circling overhead at 2/300 feet. Nothing further was seen of the aircraft or crew.

Crew: RAF Sqn Ldr Blackmore, H G P (Pilot) RNZAF Sgt Cole, W D (Observer) RAAF 404045 Sgt Rhodes, L C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

235 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404598 Sergeant PARSONS, Sidney John Rex

Source: NAA : BAQ705,

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: M 9682 Radio call sign: Unit: 27 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington M 9682 of No 27 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off from Valley Anglesey, Wales, at night on 25 February 1942, on a cross country training flight. The aircraft was last heard from in the vicinity of Squires Gate, Wales, at 1056 pm when an SOS message was received over the Irish Sea between Valley and Liverpool. The aircraft did not return to base, and subsequent air/sea rescue searches found no trace of the missing aircraft or crew.

Crew: RAAF 406351 Sgt Dyson, D H (Pilot) RAAF 406335 Sgt Veal, C G (2nd Pilot) RAAF 402302 Sgt Hargrave, A P R (Observer) RAAF 404598 Sgt Parsons, S J R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 407946 Sgt Madge, R C (Air Gunner) RNZAF Sgt Hawkins, R G (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

236 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

433648 Flight Sergeant RHODES, Robert Craven

Source: NAA : A705, 166/35/490

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: RF 145 Radio call sign: CF – Z Unit: 625 Sqn RAF Summary: Lancaster RF 145 of 625 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Kelstern, near Louth, Lincolnshire on 16 March 1945 to attack the target Nurnberg, Germany. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. Crew: RAAF 424322 FO Rolls, P M, Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Jones, D B (Pilot/Engineer) RAAF 436573 Flt Sgt Ryan, T M (Air Bomber) RAAF 433648 Flt Sgt Rhodes, R C (Navigator) RAAF 435192 Flt Sgt Teague, T W (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 437369 Flt Sgt Tarrant, C J (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Clark, G A (Rear Gunner)

In a later statement by Flt Sgt Ryan (RAAF) who became a POW he reported “I assume the other 6 members of the crew were in the aircraft when I baled out. I have no definite information regarding their probable fate. I saw no parachutes nor did I receive any information regarding these men after my descent. Approx 5 minutes before reaching the target, the aircraft was hit by a night fighter. The aircraft burst into flames somewhere aft of my compartment. The Captain ordered bale out and I baled out at 16,000 feet. The aircraft appeared under control but evidently badly in flames. Assuming that the aircraft crashed soon after my leaving, that would be 5 minutes before Nurnberg. We were on a north east heading and carrying a full bomb load when hit, and there may have been a mid-air explosion.”

Following post war enquiries and investigations, the remains of Sgt Jones (RAF) were identified as that which fell at Burglein on the night of 16 March 45, and were interred at Durnbach War Cemetery, Germany. Burglein is approx 14 miles south west of Nurnbach. No trace of the aircraft or of other members of the crew was found, and in 1949 it was recorded that the missing members have no known grave Their names are commemorated on the Memorial o the Missing, Runnymede, UK.

237 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403375 Flight Sergeant RICH, Alwyn Charles

Source: NAA : A705, 163/157/205

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: BJ 776 Radio call sign: Unit: 12 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington BJ 776 of 12 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Wickenby, at 7.30pm on 26 September 1942 to carry out a sea mining mission in German territorial waters in the Kiel Bay area. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 402989 FO Ward, J S, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 401864 Sgt Thompson, H C (Navigator) RAAF 411320 Sgt Harden, J B (Air Bomber) RAAF 403375 Sgt Rich, A C (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 406812 Sgt Mitchell, P R (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

238 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

416007 Sergeant RICHARDS, Bruce William

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/87/234 Commonwealth War Graves records W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses Operational Training Units, 1940-1947, Page 136, Volume 7..

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: P 9285 Radio call sign: Unit: 27 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington P 9285 of No 27 Operational Training RAF, took off from RAF Lichfield, Staffordshire, UK, at 1043 hours on 16 July 1942 to carry out a cross country training exercise. The route was RAF Lichfield - Bassingbourne - Church Fenton - Flamborough Head - 54deg north 02deg east - 53deg north 02 deg east - Finningley - Base. There was nil air firing involved, but 15 x 11.5 lb smoke bombs were carried. The weather was fair with 5 tenths cloud at 2000 feet and visibility moderate. The aircraft was due back at 1630 hours.

At 1230 hours the RDF plot on P 9285 faded out, and the aircraft did not return to base from the exercise. There were four other aircraft on the same exercise and they struck no adverse weather on the trip.

Crew: RAAF 416007 Sgt B.H.Richards, Pilot. RAF Sgt D.S.Large, Observer. RAF Sgt W.B.Barr, Observer/Bombaimer. RAF Sgt R.Brooke, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAAF 407886 Sgt J.A.Alcorn, Air Gunner.

It was later recorded that the missing crew had no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK.

239 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

8934 Flight Sergeant RICHARDS, Jack Kenneth

Source: NAA : A705, 166/35/272

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: BZ 873 Radio call sign: Unit: 53 Sqn RAF

Summary: Liberator BZ 873 of 53 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station St.Eval, near Wadebridge, Cornwall, on 21 May 1944 to carry out an anti-submarine patrol off the French coast near Bordeaux. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 8934 Flt Sgt Richards, J K (2nd Pilot) RAAF 423171 Flt Sgt Moore, W W (2nd Navigator) RAAF 420313 FO Watkins, H W (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 425024 Flt Sgt Kerr, J T (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 425311 Flt Sgt Johnson, A F (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) No details of the other 5 crew members (RAF members) are available.

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was established that the remains of Flt Sgt Harrison (an RAF member of the crew) was washed ashore on the north coast of Spain, and interred at the British Cemetery, Bilbao, Spain. Also that fisherman had found the body of another crew member WO Atherton (RAF) floating in the sea, but it had not been bought ashore by the fishermen.

It was later recorded that the nine missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

240 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

413254 Flight Sergeant RICHARDS, Robert Edward Duncan

Source: NAA : A705, 166/35/190

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: W 4337 Radio call sign: UL – R2 Unit: 576 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster W 4337 of 576 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Elsham Wolds, Barnetby, Lincolnshire, on 3 December 1943 to bomb Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 420334 Flt Sgt Booth, J M Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Kaye, G H (Flight Engineer) RAAF 418387 Flt Sgt Godfrey, L W L, (Observer) RAAF 413254 Flt Sgt Richards, R E D (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAAF 420836 Flt Sgt Jennings, M N (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 417959 Sgt Jones, N W (Air Gunner) RAAF 418584 Flt Sgt Taskis, D R G (Air Gunner)

Post war efforts to establish the circumstances of the crash and its location were unsuccessful. The bodies of Flt Sgt Booth, Flt Sgt Jennings, Sgt Jones and Flt Sgt Taskis (RAAF) are interred in the Rheinberg War cemetery, Germany, whilst the remains of both Flt Sgt Godfrey and Sgt Richards (RAAF) could not be found and they are recorded as having no known grave.

241 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

413428 Warrant Officer RICHARDS, Ronald

Source: NAA : A705, 166/35/384

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: NC 627 Radio call sign: Unit: Loran Trg Unit RAF

Summary: Wellington NC 627 of Loran Training Unit RAF Mullaghmore, near Ballymoney, County Antrim, North Ireland, took off at 0021 hours on 13 November 1944 on a Loran training exercise. The route was Mullaghmore – 53.30N 06.48W – 54.33N 12.25W and return by reciprocal track. After take off nothing further was heard from the aircraft.

An aircraft day & night search was carried out with nil result. It was assumed aircraft and crew were lost at sea.

Crew: RAF Flt Lt Dravers, P C (Pilot) RAF FO Goodacre, J C (Navigator) RAAF 30523 FO Delaney, M R (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 413428 WO Richards, R (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) Students RAF Flt Lt O’Connor C P RCAF FO Deakin, A K RCAF PO Ross, E B

242 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

415550 Warrant Officer RICHARDS, Stephen Eddy

Source: NAA : A705, 163/157/171

Aircraft Type: Mitchell Serial number: AD 380 Radio call sign: Unit: 98 Sqn RAF

Summary: Mitchell AD 380 of 98 Sqn RAF took off from RAF airfield, Marsbrook, at 0845 hours on 6 February 1945 to bomb a railway bridge at Deventer, Holland. At5 va height of between 10500 to 14000 feet, the box in which AD 380 was flying reached the target and AD 380 was making a target run but the bombs doors would not open.

Flames were seen in the rear part of the fuselage directly after the order to release bombs was given by the box leader and almost immediately AD 380 went into a vertical dive, minus its tail. Nothing more was seen of AD 380 which disappeared into cloud and was not seen to strike the ground.

Crew: RAAF 415550 WO Richards, S E (Pilot) RAF Sgt Quick, J A (Navigator Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Locke, H C Air Gunner flying as Wireless Operator) RAF Sgt Ward, J (Air Gunner)

It was established post war that the aircraft had been hit by ack-ack fire near the target, exploded and caught fire. The remains of Sgts Quick and Locke (RAF) were identified and interred, with the other two crew members listed as missing. A memorial plaque was erected in the General cemetery at Deventer, Holland to perpetuate the memory of the crew members.

243 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402006 Flight Sergeant RICHARDS, Theodore George

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/144/173 Digitised Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Baltimore Serial number: AG 852 Radio call sign: Unit: ATTD 223 SQN RAF

Summary: Baltimore AG 852 of 223 Sqn RAF Middle East, was one of a formation of aircraft in an operation to bomb stores at Chazal Station on 2 November 1942. Over the target there was heavy ack-ack fire, and AG 852 was hit, blew up and seen to leave the formation going down in flames. One of the crew was seen to bale out, but it was impossible to state who it was. There was no further news of the aircraft or crew which did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 401133 Flt Sgt A C Maclure, (Pilot) RAAF 406400 Flt Sgt C S Middleton, (Observer) RAAF 407198 Flt Sgt C M Chenoweth, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 402006 Sgt T G Richards, (Air Gunner)

Flt Sgt Middleton is buried in the El Alamein War Cemetery, Egypt. The search for the graves of the remaining missing crew members was abandoned in 1946. They have no known grave and their names are commemorated on the Alamein Memorial, which is situated at the entrance to the El Alamein War Cemetery, Egypt. .

244 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402252 Sergeant RICHARDSON, Frank

Source: NAA : A705, 163/157/93

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: W 5362 Radio call sign: EP – J Unit: 104 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington W 5362 of 104 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Driffield at 2034 hours on 8th September 1941 to bomb Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 402252 Sgt Richardson, F Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Barrett, F GT RAF Sgt Anderson, W H RAF Sgt Robbens, B W RAF Flt Sgt Craig, A D F RAF Sgt Mountier, R J

Following post war investigations and enquiries it was recorded in 1950 that the missing crew had no known grave.

245 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

410382 Sergeant RICHARDSON, Harold James

Source: NAA : A705, 166/35/110

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: BJ 963 Radio call sign: Unit: 27 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington BJ 963 of No 27 Operational Training Unit, RAF, took off from RAF Lichfield, Staffordshire, on a non operational cross country flight on 22 July 1943. The route was from Base – Shrewsbury – Van Bardsley Island – Studwals – Baggors Park – Base. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. It was presumed that the aircraft must have crashed at sea.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Clayton. RAF Flt Sgt Mack. RAAF 410382 Sgt H.J.Richardson, Observer. RAAF 410605 Flt Sgt N.R.Linton, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAAF 408418 Sgt A.J.H.Bock, Air Gunner.

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

246 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

427942 Flight Sergeant RICHARDSON, Keith

Source: NAA : A705, 166/35/300

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: FL 931 Radio call sign: Unit: 86 Sqn RAF

Summary: Liberator FL 931 of 86 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Tain, Ross-shire, Scotland, at 0255 hours on 26 June 1944 to carry out an anti-submarine patrol in the North Sea. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 411799 Fl Lt Moffitt, F D, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 434069 FO Whitby, S W (2nd Pilot) RAF FO Pearson, H (1st Navigator) RAAF 427942 Sgt Richardson, K I (2nd Navigator) RAAF 424197 Sgt Mason, L O H (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 419678 Sgt Williams, J G (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAF Flt Sgt O’Bierne (Wireless Operator/Air) RAF Sgt Leighton, G G (Wireless Operator Mechanic/Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Moffitt, I T (Flight Engineer)

With no trace of the missing aircraft or crew being found from post war investigations and enquiries, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew were lost at sea.

247 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

411187 Flight Sergeant RIDING, Edward Havelock

Source: NAA : A705, 163/157/201

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: Z 1728 Radio call sign: Unit: 12 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington Z 1728 of 12 Sqn RAF took off at 0035 Hours on 14 September 1942 from RAF Station Binbrook, to attack Bremen, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base. The weather was fine over the target, with moderate flak.

Crew: RAF Sgt Harrison, A E Captain (Pilot) RAF PO Thomas, E F (Navigator) RAF Sgt Lunn, B P (Air Bomber) RAAF 411187 Flt Sgt Riding, E H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 403512 Flt Sgt Higson, W F (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing crew had no known grave.

248 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

421626 Sergeant RITCHIE, Elton Roy

Source: NAA : 166/35/81

Aircraft Type: Hampden Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 32 Op Training RCAF

Summary: A Hampden aircraft of No 32 Operational Training Unit, RCAF, took off at 5.15am on 14th June 1943 to carry out a navigational, bombing and firing exercise over the Pacific Ocean. The last message received from the aircraft was at 6am. The aircraft failed to return from the exercise. Five other aircraft took off on the same exercise at approx the same time, but all had returned to base about 6.45am due to bad weather.

The weather deteriorated further during the 14 June, and searches by aircraft could not take place until the 15 June. Naval vessels sighted some wreckage, and on 16 June wrecked parts of a Hampden aircraft were identified as belonging to the missing aircraft but no survivors were found.

Crew: RAAF 420751 Sgt Lynch, A S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 421626 Sgt Ritchie, E R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) No other crew details are recorded on the above file.

249 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403390 Sergeant RITCHIE, Malcolm Jack

Source: NAA : A705, 163/157/142

Aircraft Type: Spitfire Serial number: P 7363 Radio call sign: Unit: 66 Sqn RAF

Summary: Spitfire P 7363 of 66 Sqn RAF on 20 March 1942 was detailed to carry out air to sea firing against sea markers, being under instruction not to continue to dive below 700 feet. The weather at the time was excellent and the sea calm. Eye witnesses reported that each time the aircraft pulled out of a dive it appeared to do so quite sharply.

The last time the aircraft pulled out of the dive, it rose from about 100 feet before it crashed into the sea. This seemed to indicate a high speed stall at a low altitude with the pilot being unable to recover in time. The location was one mile north west off Gull Rock, Portreath

Crew: RAAF 403390 Sgt Ritchie, M J (Pilot)

250 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

423896 Flight Sergeant ROBIN, Philip Rollo Aloysius

Source: NAA : A705, 166/36/290

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: MX 592 Radio call sign: LK – G Unit: 578 Sqn RAF

Summary: Halifax MX 592 of 578 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Burn, near Selby, Yorkshire, at 2338 hours on 12 June 1944, to attack a target at Amiens, France. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF FO Wilden, R F Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Currums, W N (Flight Engineer) RAAF 423896 Flt Sgt Robin, P R A (Navigator) RAF Sgt Askwith, P (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Hocking, J C (Wireless Operator) RAAF 429375 Flt Sgt Griffith, J B DeB (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 29132 Flt Sgt Mitchell, D S (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was established that the aircraft was hit by flak and crashed at Mailly Raineval (Somme), 5 miles south west of Moreuil. FO Wilden and one unidentified crew member are buried in the Parish cemetery at Mailly Raineval, but no trace of the remaining 5 crew members could be found.

251 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

436254 Flight Sergeant ROBINS, Alfred Arthur

Source: NAA : A9301 Barcode 5545020 No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives.

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: MP 792 Radio call sign: Unit: 78 Operational Trg RAF

Summary: Wellington MP 792 of No 78 OTU RAF took off from RAF Station Ein Shemer, Middle East Force, at approx 6pm on 8 January 1945 to carry out a non operational training exercise over the sea, and the aircraft failed to return to base.

Normal radio contact was kept with the aircraft for a time but after 6.35pm no further messages were received, and base could not regain contact. A little later information was received that an aircraft had crashed in the sea. A launch was despatched to carry out a search, and although some aircraft wreckage similar to the missing aircraft type was located, it could not be established if it came from the missing aircraft. Also no trace of the crew could be found.

It was believed that the aircraft came down in the sea approx 3 miles west of Jaffa, Palestine, and that the crew were lost at sea.

Crew: RAAF 10963 FO Williams, A.H., Pilot. RAAF 428417 FO Fong, G., 2nd Pilot. RAAF 433709 Flt Sgt C.E.H. Barnfield, Navigator Bombaimer. RAAF 435057 Flt Sgt A.B.Tunnock, Wireless Operator/Air. RAAF 436254 Flt Sgt A.A.Robins, Wireless Operator/Air. RAAF 430970 Flt Sgt N.G.Sandlant, Wireless Operator/Air.

252 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

429018 Flight Sergeant ROBINSON, Arthur Willmott

Source: NAA : A705, 166/36/430

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: EV 942 Radio call sign: Unit: 354 Sqn RAF

Summary: Liberator EV 942 of 354 Sqn RAF took off on 30 December 1944 on an anti U Boat patrol in the Indian area. It was last plotted off the south east coast of Ceylon in position 6.59N, 82.12E, when the aircraft was flying over the sea. The aircraft failed to return to base from the mission.

Crew: RCAF FO Manyluk, W A Captain (Pilot) RAAF 417587 Flt Sgt McCulloch, R W (Pilot) RCAF PO Maika, P J (Navigator Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Welburn, J K (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 429018 Flt Sgt Robinson, A W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 434942 Flt Sgt Gordon, M J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 15279 Flt Sgt Cain, L (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Sutcliffe, J (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and searches it was recorded in 1946 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

253 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405771 Sergeant RODGERS, Leslie Lindsay

Source: NAA : A705, 166/36/14

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: BK 173 Radio call sign: AL – H Unit: 429 Sqn Royal Canadian Air Force

Summary: Wellington BK 173 of 419 (Bison) Sqn RAF took from RAF East Moor at 1717 hours ton 26th January 1943 to raid L’Orient, France. The aircraft carried 2 x 1000 lb GP and 3 x 500 lb bombs. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 405771 Sgt Rodgers, L L Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Davies, C (Navigator) RAF Sgt Lewis, D (Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Allen, A F (Wireless Operator) RAF Sgt Amos, G (Air Gunner)

In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

254 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400209 Sergeant ROGERS, Colin Lindsay

Source: NAA : A705, 163/158/175

Aircraft Type: Hurricane Serial number: V 7106 Radio call sign: Unit: 33 Sqn RAF

Summary: Hurricane V 7106 of 33 Sqn RAF was detailed on 14 September 1941 along with other squadron aircraft to escort bombers on a raid in enemy territory. On the return journey enemy aircraft were encountered over a forward area, and in the ensuing engagement V 7106 was shot down. Sgt Rogers body was found five days later by troops of the 7th Armoured Division, some 50 miles away from the scene of the engagement.

The Army reported that on September 19th during a halt about 12 noon, “I went over to a circular cairn about 75 yards away. The cairn had an RAF helmet and goggles sticking up on one side. Inside the cairn was the body of an aircrew member. The body was identified and an identity disc and pocket knife removed. There was a revolver in one hand with three empty chambers. The RAF member had been wounded and apparently only been dead for some hours”.

Crew: RAAF 400209 Sgt Rogers, C L (Pilot)

Sgt Rogers grave was considered lost in a mined area. He has no known grave and his name is commemorated on the El Alamein Memorial, Egypt.

255 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404042 Flight Sergeant ROGERS, Herbert

Source: NAA : A705, 163/158/269

Aircraft Type: Maryland Serial number: AH 298 Radio call sign: Unit: 203 Sqn RAF

Summary: Maryland AH 298 of 203 Sqn RAF took off at 0700 hours on 15 April 1942, to shadow an enemy convoy in the Mediterranean. During this patrol an enemy convoy was sighted near Malta and shadowed until 1245 hours, when a message was received from the aircraft giving an ETA Malta of 1315 hours.

Nothing further was heard from the aircraft which did not return to base. It is possible that it was shot down into the sea as a large number of enemy aircraft were operating in the area at the time.

Crew: RAAF 406006 FO Halbert, J B (Pilot) RAAF 402069 FO Somerville, E N (Observer) RAAF 404042 Flt Sgt Rogers, H (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAF Flt Sgt Gordon, N (Air Gunner)

It was concluded that the aircraft and crew were lost at sea.

256 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400156 Leading Aircraftman ROSS, Claude Murray

Source: NAA : A705, 53/1/880

Aircraft Type: Harvard Serial number: 2704 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 Service Flg Trg School RCAF

Summary: Harvard 2704 of No. 1 Service Flying Training School, RCAF, crashed on a detached ice floe on 4 February 1941, 1.5 to 2 miles off-shore in Nottawasaga Bay, Ontario. Small parts of the aircraft apparently the wings, were spread over a large area, but the engine and main body of the aircraft appeared to have gone through the ice to the bottom of the lake.

The above was observed from the air and it was impossible to reach the spot on the surface. Due to bad weather and a heavy southerly gale the ice flow completely disappeared on 8 February 1941, and salvage operations were suspended until the spring.

In mid May 1941 salvage operations located the wreckage approx 3 miles north west from the Nottawasaga River in the Georgian Bay in approx 60 feet of water. By mid June a major portion of the wreck was brought to the surface. Divers searched the lake bottom but no bodies were found in the water or in the wreck. The search was subsequently abandoned.

Crew: RAAF 400156 LAC C.M.Ross. Trainee Pilot RAAF 407110 LAC C.T.Arthur, Trainee Pilot.

257 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407019 Sergeant ROSS, Maxwell Robert

Source: NAA : A705, 163/158/142

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: R 1794 Radio call sign: DX - Unit: 57 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington R 1794 of 57 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Fetwell, at 2300 hours on 26th June 1941 to attack Bremen, Germany. The last W/T message was received at 0130 hours on the 27 June, but nothing further was received and the aircraft failed to return to base.

Crew: RAAF 407019 Sgt Ross, M R Captain (Pilot) RCAF Sgt Toulson, F RAF Sgt Asher, C RCAF Sgt Tett G RAF Sgt Shepherd, B RAF Sgt O’Donnell, J

Following post war enquiries and investigations no trace was found of the missing aircraft or crew.

258 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404642 Flight Sergeant ROSS, William Charles Henry

Source: NAA : A9301 Barcode 5538537 No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives.

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: W 4116 Radio call sign: EA - Unit: 49 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster W 4116 of 49 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Scampton, at 1745pm on the night of 12/13th October 1942, detailed to attack a target at Wismar, Germany. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft or of the crew after take off.

Crew: RAAF 400890 PO Laidlaw, G L (Observer) RAAF 404642 Flt Sgt Ross, W H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 404779 Sgt Cullen, J K (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF FO Elliott, R F RAF Sgt Hodge, G RAF Sgt Hendrie, A R RAF FO Horne, J W H

In a 1949 report by the Missing Research and Enquiry Unit it stated that searches failed to reveal any trace of the aircraft or crew. The crew were recorded as missing with no known grave.

259 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

421128 Flight Sergeant ROWAN, Douglas John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/36/130 Micro Film NO 463 OAFH, Commonwealth war Graves records. W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses of the Second World War Page 346, Volume 1943. AWM 54 779/3/129 Part 18..

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: LW 292 Radio call sign: NP – V Unit: ATTD 158 SQN RAF

Summary: Halifax LW292 of 158 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Lissett at 1807 hours on the night of 3/4th October 1943, detailed to bomb Kassel, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 414426 Flt Sgt Price, J Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Perides, C C (Navigator) RAF Sgt Whittaker, R D (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Hands, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Stevenson, R (Flight Engineer) RAAF 415646 WO Grey, R C (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 421128 Flt Sgt Rowan, D J (Rear Gunner)

Following post war investigations it was established that the aircraft crashed at Altengamme, 5 miles south east of Hamburg, and that Sgt Grey (RAAF) Sgt Whittaker and Sgt Hands (RAF) were POW’s. Flt Sgt Price (RAAF) is buried at Bergdorf Cemetery at Hamburg and from German sources it was ascertained that two RAF members of the crew were buried. No information was obtained re. Flt Sgt Rowan and he is listed as having no known grave. His name is commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

In his POW report the then WO Grey stated “ Flak caused great damage Captain gave order jump, jump heard. Acknowledged. I baled out first at 12,000 feet Aircraft partly in control but three motors were useless with one on fire. Skipper hit in chest by flak and chute fouled the escape hatch causing his death. Aircraft could only turn one way.” .

260 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

408739 Flight Sergeant RUBENS, Norbert Albert

Source: NAA : A705, 163/159/108

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: VI 711 Radio call sign: Unit: 608 Sqn RAF

Summary: Hudson VI 711 of No 608 (North Riding) Sqn RAF, British North African Force, was reported missing from an operational sortie on 12 July 1943. The aircraft failed to return to base at 0130 hours on 13 July 1943. No further news was received of aircraft or crew, which was assumed lost at sea.

Crew: RAAF 411303 FO Ellis, D W, Captain (Pilot) RCAF FO Belecky (Navigator) RAAF 411618 Flt Sgt Van Waning, K (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 408739 Flt Sgt Rubens, N A (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAF LAC Vaneta, H (Meteorologist)

261 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

425759 Flight Sergeant RUSSELL, John Gordon

Source: NAA : A705, 166/36/208

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: MP 743 Radio call sign: Unit: 38 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington MP 743 of 38 Sqn RAF, Middle East, took off in the evening of 1 March 1944 to carry out a night shipping strike in the Aegean Sea. An alternative target was that of bombing Melos. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RCAF PO Boyd, W D C Captain (Pilot) RAF FO Easson, A G C (2nd Pilot) RAAF 425759 Flt Sgt Russell, J G (Navigator Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Driscoll, D (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Reeve, N W (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Brosnan, P (Wireless Operator Air)

Following post war searches and investigations it was later recorded hat the missing crew had no known grave.

262 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

410789 Warrant Officer RUSSELL, Reginald Worland

Source: NAA : A705, 166/36/306

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: MF 375 Radio call sign: Unit: 524 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington MF 375 of 524 Sqn RAF took off from RAFR Station Docking, Norfolk, at 0018 hours on 9 July 1944 to carry out an armed recce off the Dutch coast, from 10 miles south of Imuiden flying northwards. The aircraft failed to return to base.

At 0159 hours a sighting report was received giving the position of four unknown vessels at 53.24N, 04.55E. This was the last signal received, but at 0200 hours intense flak was seen in this position from two aircraft of 415 Sqn who were on the same patrol. Flak from the land and from ships was seen.

Crew: RAF FO Reen, D G Captain (Pilot) RCAF FO Belanger, (2nd Pilot) RAF PO Abbott, G E (Navigator Bombaimer) RAAF 410789 WO Russell, R W (Navigator Bombaimer) RAF PO Cochran, J A (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Howitt, W I (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Brock, F H (Wireless Operator Air)

It was later established that the body of Sgt Howiit (RAF) had been washed ashore on Schiermonnikoog Island and interred locally. It was recorded in 1949 that the remaining missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

263 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400940 Flight Sergeant RUSSELL, Thomas Geoffrey Notcutt

Source: NAA : A705, 163/159/86

Aircraft Type: Marauder Serial number: FK 155 Radio call sign: Unit: 14 Sqn RAF

Summary: Marauder FK 155 of 14 Sqn RAF, British North African Forces, took off from Bone at 0510 hours on 9 May 1943, to carry out a shipping reconnaissance. Repeated requests for weather reports were not answered by FK 155, and the aircraft did not return to base after the mission.

Crew: RAAF 400940 Flt Sgt Russell, T G Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Fennell, P (2nd Pilot) RAAF 401007 WO Dyson, F V (Navigator) RAAF 401529 Flt Sgt Nicholas, W G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Armstrong, J W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Ayton, W H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it as recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

264 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404203 Sergeant RUTHERFORD, Douglas Robert

Source: NAA : A705, 163/159/61

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: AM 796 Radio call sign: Unit: 59 Sqn RAF

Summary: Hudson AM796 of 59 Sqn RAF took off on a Reefer patrol over the North Sea from its base at North Coates, Lincolnshire, UK, at 0855hrs on 2 March 1942. Since then nothing further heard of either the aircraft or any member of the crew. Missing lost over the North Sea.

Crew: RAAF 402510 Sgt Lauder, K J (Pilot) RAAF 404203 Sgt Rutherford, D R (Air Observer) RAAF 404638 FO Bain, D H (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 402999 Sgt Jones, W T (Wireless Operator)

265 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

425551 Flight Sergeant RYALLS, Cornelius Dominick

Source: NAA : A705, 166/36/’295

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HZ 703 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HZ 703 of 8 Sqn RAF, British Forces Aden, took off at 10.30pm at night on 27 June 1944 on a convoy escort patrol. At 0205 hours on 28 June, SS Highland Prince reported that a twin engine aircraft had crashed in the sea, caught fire and exploded. The reported position was 12.20N, 44.03E. The ship and the Navy searched for two hours but no trace of any survivors was found. It was established that no other aircraft apart from HZ 703 was in the vicinity at the time.

Crew: RCAF FO Ferguson, G W (Captain (Pilot) RAF FO Davis, H H G ((2nd Pilot) RAF Flt Lt Moeseley, E F (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAAF 422296 Flt Sgt Reid, R A L (Wireless Operator Air) (ASVG) RAAF 418486 Flt Sgt Walker, G M (Wireless Operator Air) (ASVG) RAAF 425551 Flt Sgt Ryalls, C D (Wireless Operator Air) (ASVG)

It was later concluded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

266 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

416459 Flight Sergeant RYAN, Edward John

Source: NAA : A705, 163/159/46

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: LM 164 Radio call sign: WP – V Unit: 90 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster LM 164 of 90 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Tuddenham, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, at 2153 hours on 7 August 1944 to bomb strong points in the Normandy battle zone at Mare De Magne. LM 164 was due to return to base at 0103 hours on 8 August but it failed to return to base.

Crew: RAF FO Brooks, A G Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Tomlinson, H P (Navigator) RAF FO Riley, F G (Air Bomber) RAAF 416459 Flt Sgt Ryan, E J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Barber, J T (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Cairns, T D S (Rear Gunner) RAF Sgt Wiggin, J C (Flight Engineer)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

267 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

420601 Flight Sergeant RYAN, Edward Joseph

Source: NAA : A705, 166/36/265 AWM 65 (4520)

Aircraft Type: Marauder Serial number: FK 110 Radio call sign: Unit: 14 Sqn RAF

Summary: Marauder FK 110 of 14 Sqn RAF, British North African Forces, was detailed to carry out on 9 May 1944, a low level reconnaissance of enemy shipping in the vicinity of the Ionian Island off the coast of Greece in the South Adriatic Sea. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it failed to return from the mission. Subsequent ASR searches failed to find the aircraft or any survivors.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Ross, J (Pilot) RAF Sgt Green, W N (Pilot) RAAF 420511 Flt Sgt Woods, A (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAAF 420601 Flt Sgt Ryan, E J (Wireless Operator Air) RAAF 420694 Flt Sgt Mackrell, T (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Flt Sgt Andrews, H G (Wireless Operator Air)

All the crew have no known grave and their names are commemorated on the Malta Memorial. The Memorial is situated in the area of Floriana and is easily identified by the Golden Eagle which identified the column. It stands outside the main entrance at Valletta, Malta.

268 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

413446 Warrant Officer RYAN, William Barry

Source: NAA : A705, 166/36/141

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: LN 928 Radio call sign: Unit: 104 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington LN 928 of 104 Sqn RAF, Central Mediterranean Force, took off from Foggia drome at 2307 hours on 16 April 1944 to attack a target at Leghorn Italy. The following messages were received from the aircraft : 0130 hours : Landing at Borgo with engine trouble. 0206 hours Preparing to ditch. 0209 hours Now ditching. Position 42.20N, 0937E. The position was in the sea near Corsica.

Crew: RAAF 421900 FO Gilleland, W C Captain (Pilot) RAAF 422484 Flt Sgt French, G C (Navigator Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Fox (Navigator) RAAF 418224 FO Denison, L A (Navigator Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Adams, S E (Wireless Operator Air) RAAF 413446 WO Ryan, W B (Air Gunner)

When the aircraft ditched, FO Gilleland (RAAF) the pilot, was forced out of the escape hatch by the inrush of water. No other survivors were seen. He reached a dinghy and later saw a light being shone upside of the dinghy. He was rescued when a Catalina was sighted and attracted that same afternoon on 17 April 44.

It was later recorded that the 5 missing members had lost their lives at sea.

269 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

417420 Warrant Officer SANDERCOCK, William James

Source: NAA : A705, 163/37/695

Aircraft Type: Warwick Serial number: HG 209 Radio call sign: Unit: 279 Sqn RAF

Summary: Warwick HG 209 of 279 Sqn RAF took off at 1330 hours on 11 January 1945 from a Squadron detachment at RAF Station Braserburgh, to provide ASR cover for an anti shipping strike off the Norwegian coast. Enemy fighters were encountered, and HG 209 failed to return to base. HG 209 was last seen to be flying over a ditched strike aircraft , and believed to be followed by an ME 109.

Crew: RAF Flt Lt Moreton, J H Captain (Pilot) RAAF 417420 WO Sandercock, W J (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAF FO Galloway, G C (Wireless Operator Air) RAF WO Mansfield, G W RAF Flt Sgt Bryan, W (Air Gunner) RCAF WO Bentley, F E RAF WO Goodall, A F

It was later recorded that the missing crew had been lost at sea.

270 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

430970 Flight Sergeant SANDLANT, Noel George

Source: NAA : A705, 166/37/684

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: MP 792 Radio call sign: Unit: 78 Operational Trg RAF

Summary: Wellington MP 792 of No 78 OTU RAF took off from RAF Station Ein Shemer, Middle East Force, at approx 6pm on 8 January 1945 to carry out a non operational training exercise over the sea, and the aircraft failed to return to base.

Normal radio contact was kept with the aircraft for a time but after 6.35pm no further messages were received, and base could not regain contact. A little later information was received that an aircraft had crashed in the sea. A launch was despatched to carry out a search, and although some aircraft wreckage similar to the missing aircraft type was located, it could not be established if it came from the missing aircraft. Also no trace of the crew could be found.

It was believed that the aircraft came down in the sea approx 3 miles west of Jaffa, Palestine, and that the crew were lost at sea.

Crew: RAAF 10963 FO Williams, A.H., Pilot. RAAF 428417 FO Fong, G., 2nd Pilot. RAAF 433709 Flt Sgt C.E.H. Barnfield, Navigator Bombaimer. RAAF 435057 Flt Sgt A.B.Tunnock, Wireless Operator/Air. RAAF 436254 Flt Sgt A.A.Robins, Wireless Operator/Air. RAAF 430970 Flt Sgt N.G.Sandlant, Wireless Operator/Air.

271 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402064 Flight Sergeant SANDS, Alwyn Harold

Source: NAA : A705, 163/160/167

Aircraft Type: Hurricane Serial number: BN 282 Radio call sign: Unit: 73 Sqn RAF

Summary: On 27 May 1942, Flt Sgt Sands was detailed to fly BN 282 from El Adem to Gambut West. He did not leave with the rest of the Squadron as the aircraft was temporarily unserviceable. He left at a later time but BN 282 did not arrive at its destination. Although initially reported as missing, Flt Sgt Sands remains was found in the Sollum- Tobruk area by the 2nd Cameroons, identified by a pay book and buried withy bthe grave being marked by a cross.

Following post war searches when the grave could not be located, the search was abandoned in 1946.

Crew: RAAF 402064 Flt Sgt Sands, A H (Pilot)

272 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

406736 Sergeant SCANLAN, William Llewellyn

Source: NAA : A705, 163/160/343

Aircraft Type: Marauder Serial number: 1529 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 (B) Sqn (USAAF)

Summary: Marauder 1529 of No 2 Bomber Squadron, USAAF, 22nd Bomber Group, together with two other B26’s took off at 11am from Laloki on 17 December 1942, on a bombing mission to Buna, New Guinea, but 1529 failed to return. Pilots of the accompanying aircraft reported that about 20 minutes after take off, the aircraft were approaching the mountains about 15 miles from the Kokada Gap. The Flight Leader made a gentle turn to port, still climbing to gain altitude. After the turn Sgt Scanlan’s aircraft which was in number 3 position, was not seen again. Both the accompanying aircraft called over the R/T but no reply was received.

Crew: USAAF Lt Anderson, F J (Pilot) RAAF 406736 Sgt Scanlan, W L (Pilot) USAAF 1st Lt Hansen, E H USAAF 2nd Lt Willoughby, S K USAAF Sgt Powell, T R USAAF Sgt Whitley jr, G W USAAF Sgt McLean. J H

Searches were carried out over the next four days but no trace of the missing plane or crew was found. RAAF search parties conducted further searches after the war but were unsuccessful. It was recorded that Sgt Scanlan had lost his life on 17 December 1942.

273 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

433034 Flight Sergeant SCHAFER, William Mathew

Source: NAA : A705, 166/37/571

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: MF 698 Radio call sign: Unit: 30 Operational Trg RAF

Summary: Wellington MF 698 of 30 Operational Training Unit RAF took off from RAF Seighford satellite drome at 0300 hours on 12 October 1944, on a night cross country exercise. Approx 30 minutes after take off the first position report was received from the aircraft, but after that nothing was heard and MF 698 did not return to base. The route of the exercise was over the Cardigan Bay area.

Crew: RAAF 427966 PO White, D G (Pilot) RAAF 426094 WO Gibson, J R (Navigator) RAAF 419758 Sgt Kingsley, R G (Air Bomber) RAAF 437884 Flt Sgt Telford, A R (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 433034 Flt Sgt Schafer, W M (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Glasper, N (A/C) RAF FO Woodley, W (Flying Instructor) RAF FO Pegrum, A (Flying Instructor)

In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

274 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

406153 Sergeant SCHOFIELD, Albert Charles

Source: NAA : A705, 166/37/20

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: W 7699 Radio call sign: Unit: 35 Sqn RAF

Summary: Halifax W 7699 of No 35 (Madras Presidency) Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Linton-on-Ouse, Yorkshire, at 2329 hours on the 8th June 1942, to bomb Essen, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RNZAF PO MacKenzie, A C RAF Sgt Bottomley, J E RAF Sgt Elliott, H R G RAF Flt Sgt Sharman, J G RAF Sgt Evans, E E C RAAF 406153 Sgt Scholfield, A C (Air Gunner)

275 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404859 Sergeant SCHULTZ, Harold Henry

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/160/162, 163/169/104, Micro Film No 463 OAFH Commonwealth War Graves records.

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: V 8993 Radio call sign: Unit: ATTD 279 SQN RAF

Summary: Hudson V 8993 of 279 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Docking, Norfolk at 0830 hours on 13 February 1942 to carry out a sea patrol off the east coast of UK bounded by an area 52.25N 03.30E and 52.35N 03.30E. Visibility was good with patchy mist and low cloud. The icing index was high. The aircraft was due to return at 1130 hours but it failed to return to base.

Crew: RAF Sgt G R M Gerrard, (Pilot) RAF Sgt J H Redhead, (Observer) RAAF 404859 Sgt H H Schultz, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 403165 Sgt J Logan, (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

The body of Sgt Logan (RAAF) was washed ashore on the shoe at Palling, Norfolk, some 14 miles north west of Yarmouth. He is buried in the Scottow Cemetery, Coltishall. It was recorded in 1948 that the three missing crew members had lost their lives at sea. Their names are recorded on the Memorial to the Missing Runnymede, UK.

276 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

411532 Sergeant SCHULTZ, Lancelot Hood

Source: NAA : A705, 166/37/52

Aircraft Type: Beaufighter Serial number: XD 8132 Radio call sign: Unit: 272 Sqn RAF

Summary: Beaufighter X 8132 of 272 Sqn RAF took off from Takali with other aircraft of the Squadron to act as an escort to Beauforts engaged on a shipping strike. Over the target many combats took place with enemy aircraft of different types, and it was possible that X 8132 was shot down as it did not return to base. It was not seen to return from the target area after combat.

Crew: RAAF 411532 Sgt Schultz, L H (Pilot) RAF Sgt Wainwright, W A (Observer)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

277 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

423335 Flight Sergeant SCOTT, John Symms

Source: NAA : A705, 166/37/354

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: MZ 507 Radio call sign: MH – P2 Unit: 51 Sqn RAF

Summary: Halifax MZ 507 of 51 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Snaith, near Goole, Yorkshire, at 1843 hours on 24 March 1944 to attack Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Lt Curtis, R Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Willson, W V (Navigator) RAAF 423335 Flt Sgt Scott, J S (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Sidebotham,, A Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Hepworth, R (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Midlane, (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Taylor, L (Rear Gunner)

Both Sgts Sidebotham and Midlane became POW’s. The Germans reported that the bodies of Sgts Willson and Taylor were identified, and that Flt Sgt Scott had lost his life, but no burial details were given. It was later recorded that Flt Sgt Scott had no known grave.

278 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

416618 Flight Sergeant SEDGLEY, Bryant Frederick

Source: NAA : A705, 166t/37/185

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HF 688 Radio call sign: Unit: 40 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HF 688 of 40 Sqn RAF, Middle East, took off on the night of 19/20th August 1943, on an operational flight over Scalea on the south west coast of Italy, approx 108 miles south east of Naples. HF 688 did not return to base after the mission. At the time it was presumed that the missing aircraft might have been shot down by enemy action over the target, as two crews of accompanying aircraft reported seeing an aircraft crash in flames on the beach near Scalea at approx 1240am on 20 August. No member of the crew was seen to bale out and it was not possible to state if the aircraft was HF 688.

Crew: RAF Sgt Field, C S Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Boyd, B C L (Navigator) RAAF 416618 Flt Sgt Sedgley, B F (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Facey, R S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Taylor, C L (Air Gunner)

Following post war investigations and interrogations of local residents it was established that the above aircraft was not HF 688 but another lost on the same raid. Searches could not locate HF 688 or crew, and it was recorded that the aircraft had crashed into the sea and the crew had no known grave.

279 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

418185 Sergeant SENGER, Grant Charles

Source: NAA : A705, 166/37/108

Aircraft Type: Hampden Serial number: AN 100 Radio call sign: Unit: 32 Op Training RCAF

Summary: Hampden AN 100 of 32 Operational Training RCAF, took off at 1140 hours on 4 June 1943 for a navigational exercise over the sea. The aircraft received a WT signal at 1200 hours, but after that nothing was heard from AN 100 and it did not return to base after the exercise.

Searches later recovered some wreckage from AN 100 from the sea, but no trace of survivors was found.

Crew: RAF Sgt Baker, W VF (Pilot) RAF Sgt Ralph, J (Navigator) RAAF 422214 Sgt Maddrell, G W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 418185 Sgt Senger, G C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

280 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

435489 Flight Sergeant SHANNON, Evan Frederick

Source: NAA : A705, 166/37/1019

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: LM 177 Radio call sign: PM – Z Unit: 103 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster LM 177 of 103 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Elsham Wolds, Barnetby, Lincolnshire, was detailed to lay mines in enemy waters in the Aarhus Bay, Denmark. LM 177 took off at the appointed on the night of 4/5th April 1945 but nothing further was heard and the aircraft did not return to base.

Four other 103 Squadron aircraft took part in the mission, and when homeward bound from the Danish coast, members of another crew saw three aircraft shot down behind them but were unable to identify any individual aircraft. Two of the aircraft appeared to crash into the sea and one on the land. In each case the mines would have been already laid.

Crew: RAAF 414031 FO Hole, L, Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Kelly, E (Flight Engineer) RAAF 430123 Flt Sgt Jeffrey, S A (Air Bomber) RAAF 437854 Flt Sgt Hodge, C J (Navigator) RAAF 432969 Flt Sgt Pearce, S D (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 437300 FO Vallentine, V L (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 435489 Flt Sgt Shannon, E F (Rear Gunner)

In 1949 it was reported that all efforts to find any trace of the aircraft or crew had been unsuccessful and the crew had been recorded as missing lost at sea.

281 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400357 Flight Sergeant SHAPIR, Morris William

Source: NAA : A705, 163/161/147

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: DV 676 Radio call sign: Unit: 108 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington DV 676 of 108 Sqn RAF was returning from a mission over Tobruk on 15 August 1942, when its engines cut out and it made a forced landing in the desert at night in the Quattara depression, Egypt. The aircraft hit a hill was badly damaged and all the crew seriously injured.

The crew were rescued by a tank patrol of the 4th Hussars. Flt Sgt Shapir’s body was removed from the aircraft and buried nearby and the wrecked aircraft destroyed. The location was 15 miles due south of Minqar Zahr El Himar, and approx 48 miles SSW of Alem el Gill. One other member of the crew Sgt Beavan (RAF) later died of his injuries.

Crew: RAAF 400690 Sgt Bond, J C Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Beavan, A R (2nd Pilot) RAF PO Smith, F H (Navigator) RAAF 400357 Flt Sgt Shapir, M W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Rodden, D (Wireless Operator) RAAF 404306 Sgt Taylor, A A (Rear Gunner)

Post war searches failed to locate the grave of Flt Sgt Shapir.

282 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

432885 Flight Sergeant SHARP, Jack Wallace

Source: NAA : A9301, Barcode 5536291

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: NG 222 Radio call sign: Unit: 1654 Heavy Conversion RAF

Summary: Lancaster NG 222 of 1654 Heavy Conversion Unit RAF, took off from RAF Station Wigsley at 1125am on 12 April 1945, on a cross country training flight in England, finishing up with an air sea firing exercise over the Wash off the east coast of England.

At 2.15pm a message was received from the aircraft requesting a weather report, which was cloudy with slight haze, visibility 4 miles. The report was acknowledged at 2.15pm. There was no further contact however with the aircraft which failed to reply to a signal from base sent at 3.40pm for a report on its position and an ETA.

Searches were subsequently made and the body of Flt Sgt Darby (RAF) was recovered from the sea at Northclates, near Grimsby, Lincoln. There was however no trace found of the missing aircraft or remaining crew members.

Crew: RAAF 35027 Flt Sgt Wedd, C W Captain (Pilot) RAAF 428057 FO Smith, B P (Observer) RAAF 124764 FO Rolston, A G (Bombaimer) RAAF 432885 Flt Sgt Sharp, J W (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Flt Sgt Baker RAF Sgt Chapman RAF Sgt Hope RAF Flt Sgt Darby RAF Flt Sgt Hardman

It was later recorded that the eight missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

283 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

428510 Warrant Officer SHEARER, John Garnet

Source: NAA : A705, 166/37/1020

Aircraft Type: Boston Serial number: BZ 489 Radio call sign: Unit: 18 Sqn RAF

Summary: Boston BZ 489 of 18 (Burma) Sqn RAF, Central Mediterranean Force, took of from Foeli airfield at 2304 hours on 6 April 1943 to attack ferry terminals east of Pontelaggoscuro. When the aircraft was returning to base after the attack, a considerable amount of flak was encountered near Porto Gariboldi which the aircraft avoided by flying out to sea, but experiencing flak all the time. Shortly after an explosion occurred and the aircraft crashed into the sea from 1000 feet.

On impact, the pilots hatch flew off and he (WO Whitwell RAF) climbed out. He swam around the tail of the aircraft the only part being visible the rest of the aircraft being under water. At that moment the dinghy inflated and he climber into it, by which time the aircraft had sunk. The pilot was in the dinghy until 0230 hours on 8 April, and found he was within swimming distance of land. He swam ashore and local Army personnel took him to SSQ Headquarters 324 Wing and then 22MFH. He saw no trace of the other members of the crew after the crash at 0020 hours on 7 April 1943.

Crew: RAF WO Whitwell, R W J Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Lake, H G (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAAF 428510 WO Shearer, J G (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgtt Cowe, J (Air Gunner)

It was later recorded that the three missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

284 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

411394 Flight Sergeant SHEARMAN, David John

Source: NAA : A705, 166/37/83

Aircraft Type: Kittyhawk Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 53 Repairy Salvage 239 Wing Trg Flight RAF

Summary: Flt Sgt Shearman was authorised to fly a Kittyhawk from Bu-Grara landing ground on 2nd May 1943 to carry out aerobatics for one hour at 12000 feet. The aircraft took off at 0915 hours.

At 10.15 hours the Flight Commander leading four aircraft in formation practice observed Flt Sgt Shearman flying in the aerodrome circuit at 1000 feet heading in a south west direction, and that the aircraft seemed under complete control. At 1115 hours when the endurance of the aircraft had expired, the Flight Commander searched the area but no trace of the missing aircraft or pilot was found. Extensive searches were then carried out but were unsuccessful. The weather at the time was visibility of 3/4 miles at 2000 feet and deteriorating.

Crew: RAAF 411394 Flt Sgt Shearman, D J (Pilot)

In 1948 it was recorded that the missing pilot had no known grave.

285 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

410014 Flight Sergeant SHEEAN, Lorin James

Source: NAA : A705, 166/37/279

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: LK 926 Radio call sign: MP – C Unit: 76 Sqn RAF

Summary: Halifax LK 926 of 76 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Holme on Spalding Moor Yorkshire, at 1639 hours on 21 December 1943 being one of a number of aircraft detailed to bomb Frankfurt, Germany. The last message received from LK 926 was at 2153 hours when in position 5148N, 0344E. Nothing further was heard and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Matthews, C W Captain (Pilot) RNZAF Flt Sgt Lamb, J A (Navigator) RAF Flt Sgt Gillingham, L F (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Cohen, H C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Taylor, R F (Flight Engineer) RCAF Sgt McClelland , D S (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 410014 Flt Sgt Sheean, L J (Rear Gunner)

The body of Flt Sgt Matthews (RAF) was washed ashore and is buried at Bergen-op- Zoom British Military Cemetery. The remains of Flt Sgt Lamb (RNZAF) are buried at Castricum Par Cemetery. It was later recorded that the remaining missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

286 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

412721 Flight Sergeant SHELDON, Leslie Thomas William

Source: NAA : A705, 166/37/314

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: AM 710 Radio call sign: Unit: 608 Sqn RAF

Summary: Hudson AM 710 of 608 Sqn RAF took off from its base in Sicily at 0252 hours on 14 September 1943 to conduct a U-Boat hunt. After takeoff the aircraft made two circuits of the drome. On the second circuit the ACP stated that he saw a ‘vapour trail’ from the starboard engine. Thinking the aircraft would land immediately the ACP gave it a green. The aircraft then left the circuit area on a course of 290 degrees at an approx height of 1000-1500 feet and was not seen again.

At approx 0310 hours a pilot of 235 Sqn stated that he saw flames on the surface of the water in position 3802N 1222E, approx four miles from the coast of Sicily. No trace of wreckage or the crew was found.

Crew: RAAF 411736 FO Bradley, B G S (Pilot) RAAF 412679 Flt Sgt Pettitt, E N (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 412721 Flt Sgt Sheldon, L T (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RCAF FO Cherer (Navigator)

287 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

411958 Warrant Officer SHEPHERD, Onslow Harold Maxwell

Source: NAA : A705, 166/37/309

Aircraft Type: Spitfire Serial number: MA 636 Radio call sign: Unit: 93 Sqn RAF

Summary: Spitfire MA 636 of 93 Sqn RAF was one of eight aircraft of the Squadron detailed to carry out a patrol over the Anzio beach head area, on the west coast of Italy about 32 miles south east of Rome.

The aircraft took off at 1315 hours on 27th January 1944. At approx 1345 hours flying north west at 17000 feet the formation sighted eight ME 109’s flying south east at 15000 feet. Also reported were several FW190’s in the area. The formation engaged the enemy, and MA 636 which failed to return to base was last seen as it went into attack.

Crew: RAAF 411958 WO Shepherd, O H M (Pilot)

Following post war searches and enquiries it was recorded that WO Shepherd had no known grave.

288 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

411265 Sergeant SHEPHERD, Trevor Douglas

Source: NAA : A9301 Barcode 5528880 No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives.

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: Z 1651 Radio call sign: Unit: 150 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington Z 1651 of 150 Sqn RAF was one of 9 aircraft which took off from RAF Station Snaith, Yorkshire, to attack Bremen, Germany. The weather en route was cloudy, but fine over the target which was obscured by smoke haze. Moderate to heavy flak was encountered over the north west and south east of Bremen. Nothing was heard from Z1651 aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 404963 Flt Sgt H.F.Grace, Captain (Pilot). RAF Sgt J.C.Chamers, Observer. RAAF 405588 Sgt H.W.Holgate, Bombaimer. RAF Sgt C.Mackenzie, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAAF 411265 Sgt T.D.Shepherd, Air Gunner.

Following post war enquiries and investigations when no trace of the missing aircraft or crew was found, it was recorded in 1950 that the missing crew had no known grave.

289 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

406493 Flight Sergeant SHERWOOD, Leslie Roy

Source: NAA : A705, 163/161/311

Aircraft Type: Beaufort Serial number: DD 881 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 Op Training RAF

Summary: Beaufort DD 581 of No 5 Operational Training Unit, RAF, was detailed to carry out a night navigational training exercise on 27 October 1942. The route was Base – Ayr – Mull of Kintyre – Rathlin East Maidens – Mull of Galloway – Corsewell – Base. DD881 ran out of fuel and it presumably crashed in the Irish Sea at approx 2339 hours on the 27th October.

Crew: RAAF 406493 Flt Sgt Sherwood, L R (Pilot) RAF Sgt Ellis, R A (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAF Sgt Hancock, G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Newman, C W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

290 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

406412 Sergeant SHINER, Jack Marawa

Source: NAA : A9301, Bar Code 5540607 No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives, but see A705, 163/123/93

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: ATTD Royal Air Force Hq Royal Air Force (Mid East)

Summary: A Blenheim aircraft in transit from the UK to the Middle East took off from RAF Luqa, Malta at 0110 hours on 30 March 1942, but failed to arrive at its destination in the Middle East. It was presumed that the aircraft was lost at sea.

Crew: RAAF 406396 Sgt Janney, H (Pilot) RAAF 406412 Sgt Shiner, J M (Observer) RAAF 406301 Sgt Johnson, C E (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

291 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400840 Flight Sergeant SILLCOCK, Ronald Rasleigh

Source: NAA : A705, 163/162/513

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: V 9253 Radio call sign: Unit: 53 Sqn RAF

Summary: Hudson V 9253 of 53 Sqn RAF took off from Edinburgh Field, Trinidad at 0945 hours on 10 November 1942 to carry out a routine anti-submarine patrol south east of Trinidad. The aircraft made a routine signal before it was due to return to base at 1600 hours GMT. At 1700 hours an attempt was made at W/T communication but no acknowledgement was received. Subsequent searches found no trace of the missing aircraft or crew.

Crew: RAAF 400840 Flt Sgt Sillcock, R R (Pilot) RNZAF Sgt Nelson, P G (Observer) RAF Sgt Millar, R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Skinner, W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) US Navy Seaman 1st Class Drew, H I (Passenger)

292 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402026 Sergeant SIMPSON, James McKenzie

Source: NAA : A705, 163/162/201

Aircraft Type: Maryland Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 69 Sqn RAF

Summary: A Maryland aircraft of 69 Sqn RAF left Luqa, Malta on 15 July 1941 to carry out a photo recce over Tripoli and the North African coast. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 404019 Sgt Lee, C F (Pilot) RAAF 402026 Sgt Simpson, J McK (Observer) RAAF 404036 Sgt Neill, J C G (Air Gunner) There are no other details of any other crew member recorded on above file.

In 1948 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

293 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

408784 Flight Sergeant SIMPSON, Lloyd Garnet

Source: NAA : A705, 166/37/178 AWM 65 (4695)

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HZ 351 Radio call sign: Unit: 547 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HZ 351 of 547 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Davidston Moore, Camelford, Cornwall, at 1410 hours on 15 August 1943 to carry out an operational sortie in the Bay of Biscay. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. The enemy claimed to have destroyed four British aircraft in the area that day, but it is not known if it included HZ 351.

Crew: RNZAF PO White, J Captain (Pilot) RAF PO Blunt, J (2nd Pilot) RAF PO Fisher, (Navigator) RAAF 12168 WO Bathurst, A L (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 408784 Flt Sgt Simpson,, L G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 408788 Flt Sgt Taylor, R J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

294 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

415187 Warrant Officer SINCLAIR, Kenneth Arthur

Source: NAA : A705, 166/37/419

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: ND 695 Radio call sign: Unit: 630 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster ND 695 of 630 Sqn RAF took off from East Kirkby airfield near Spilsby, Lincolnshire, at 2238 hours on 22 May 1944 to attack a target at Brunswick, Germany. Nothing further was heard of the aircraft or crew.

Crew: RAAF 414903 PO Brown, V W, Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Haig, D B (Flight Engineer) RAAF 415187 WO Sinclair, K A (Navigator) RAF Sgt Connor, T W (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Saxby, W J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Binne, J (Air Gunner) RAAF 434558 Flt Sgt Taylor, W I (Air Gunner)

295 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407651 Warrant Officer SLADE, Alfred Byrne

Source: NAA : A705, 166/37/229

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HZ 603 Radio call sign: Unit: 38 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HZ 603 of 38 Sqn RAF Middle East, took off from Nicosia at 1827C hours on 27 October 1943 to carry out an offensive operation in the Aegean Sea, and then return to Berga 111. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Dubery, C D Captain (Pilot) SAAF Lt Garlick, G L (2nd Pilot) RAF FO Walton, D R (Navigator) RAAF 407651 W O Slade, A B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 406324 Flt Sgt Barnes, V S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 407560 WO McCord, D A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

296 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407594 Sergeant SMALL, James Thomson

Source: NAA : A705, 163/162/294

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: 3872 Radio call sign: Unit: 11 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blemheim 3872 of 11 Sqn RAF was missing on 19 February 1942, from an operational flight to Landing Ground 121 in Sidi Barrani area, Egypt. The aircraft took off from Bade at 1130 hours on 19 February.

The wreck of the aircraft was founhd on 31 March 1942, 68 miles west of Mersa Matruh, 1.5 miles north of the railway in the Sidi Barrani area. The identities of the missing crew were established and the remains of the crew were buried.

Crew: RAAF 407594 Sgt Small, J T (Pilot) RAAF 404025 Sgt Clements, R H (Observer) RAAF 400684 Sgt Wheeler, W R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war searches and investigations when no trace of the graves were found, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had no known grave.

297 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

401397 Sergeant SMART, Mervyn Goulbourne

Source: NAA : A705, 163/162/469 AWM 65(4728)

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HF 846 Radio call sign: Unit: 40 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HF 846 of 40 Sqn RAF took off at 2000 hours on 25 September 1942, to attack Tobruk defences. No W/T messages were received from the HF 846, but other aircraft on the same mission reported seeing an aircraft crash and burst into flames in position 1 miles south of Gubbi satellite drome at approx 0005 hours.

Crew: RNZAF Sgt Langham, G F Captain (Pilot) RNZAF PO Adams, B A (2nd Pilot) RNZAF Sgt Welsh, J M (Observer) RNZAF Sgt Cook, R H (Wireless Operator) RAAF 401397 Sgt Smart, M G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner – Front Gunner) RAF Sgt Price, W G CD (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was later recorded that the missing crew had no known grave.

298 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

411953 Warrant Officer SMITH, Daryl Hamilton

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/227

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HE 613 Radio call sign: Unit: 104 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HE 613 of 104 Sqn RAF took off from Hani West Landing Ground at night on 7 August 1943 to attack Cape Palami, Italy. The aircraft failed to return from this mission. Cape Palami is on the south west coast of Italy approx. 20 miles north east of Reggio.

Crew: RAAF 411953 W O Smith, D H Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Bristow, K F (2nd Pilot) RAAF 421140 Sgt Veale, R S (Navigator) RAAF 416554 Flt Sgt Ellis, R A (Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Holmes, F C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Barriskill, W J (Air Gunner)

Following post war instructions and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

299 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

414974 Warrant Officer SMITH, Egbert

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/770

Aircraft Type: Spitfire Serial number: F 466 Radio call sign: Unit: 92 Sqn RAF

Summary: Spitfire F 466 of 93 (East India) Sqn RAF, Central Mediterranean Force, took off from landing ground 25 on 12 November 1944 to carry out a recce over Fiume, Yugoslavia. The mission was led by PO lane (RAF) who reported by R/T 25 minutes after take off that he and WO Smith were carrying on with the mission. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft and both failed to return to base.

Crew: RAAF 414974 WO Smith, E (Pilot)

300 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403537 Sergeant SMITH, Frank Raymond

Source: NAA : A705, 163/162/426

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: DV 663 Radio call sign: Unit: 40 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington DV 663 of 40 Sqn RAF took off at 1945 hours on the 7th August 1942 to attack shipping in Tobruk Harbour Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RNZAF Sgt Kerr, L F Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Hainey, K K (2nd Pilot) RNZAF Sgt Thomson, J I (Observer) RAAF 403537 Sgt Smith, F R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 404712 Sgt Gowdie, R StC (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RCAF Sgt Wolstenholme, D (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

301 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405027 Flight Sergeant SMITH, Jack Lindsay

Source: NAA : A705, 163/162/483

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: Z 8594 Radio call sign: Unit: 104 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington Z 8594 of 104 Sqn RAF took off at night on 14/15th October 1942 to attack Tobruk. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Sgt Baldwin, E W Captain (Pilot) RNZAF WO Keane, D M (2nd Pilot) RCAF Flt Sgt Elliott, R J (Observer) RAAF 405027 Flt Sgt Smith, J L (2nd Observer) RAF Sgt Clark, H R (Wireless Operator) RAAF 405548 Flt Sgt Gannon, R D (Air Gunner)

The names of Sgt Gannon and Sgt Smith (RAAF) are commemorated on the Alamein Missing Memorial

302 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407934 Warrant Officer SMITH, John James

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/206

Aircraft Type: Dakota Serial number: FD 774 Radio call sign: Unit: 267 Sqn RAF

Summary: Dakota FD 774 of 267 Sqn RAF left El Aquina on a non operational flight on 9 July 1943. The aircraft was forced to make a crash landing in rough seas in the sea in position 35.20N, 12.00E.

The pilot (Flt Sgt Cargill RNZAF) drifted ashore in a dinghy near Sfax, and informed the nearest air unit, 15th Fighter Squadron, USAAF, who undertook searches which were called off on 10 July. FD 774 experienced double engine failure when flying over the sea at 2000 feet. The cause pointed to petrol starvation. The aircraft was last refuelled at Castel Benito where previous trouble had arisen with contaminated fuel.

Crew: RNZAF Flt Sgt Cargill, R W (Pilot) RAAF 407934 WO Smith, J J (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RNZAF Flt Sgt Hannan, D J A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

It was later recorded that the missing two crew members had most their lives at sea.

303 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

423098 Sergeant SMITH, Mervyn Charles Bruce

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/307

Aircraft Type: Hampden Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: No 6 Operational Trg RAF

Summary: A Hampden aircraft of No 6 Operational Trg RAF on a night navigation training exercise on 16 October 1943, but the aircraft did not return to base from this exercise. The last radio contact was at 1949 hours on the 16 October. All emergency measures were taken to make contact with the aircraft but were unsuccessful. Searches were conducted for five days, but no trace could be found of the missing aircraft or crew.

Crew: RAAF 21526 PO Porter, R R G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 423098 Sgt Smith, M C B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) Plus 2 members of the RAF.

In 1945, the wreckage of a Hampden aircraft and the remains of 4 crew were located north of Maggie Lake on Vancouver Island, Canada. The crash occurred on a hill in mountainous and wooded country, with access being too difficult to bring out the unidentifiable remains. A burial party including an RCAF Chaplain proceeded to the scene of the crash on Monday 30 July 1945, to conduct a funeral service and effect burial.

In 1949 the Imperial War Graves Commission advised that it was not possible for the grave to be registered and to place a permanent headstone over the grave, and that the

304 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

413709 Flight Sergeant SMITH, Raymond Douglas-Crowley

Source: NAA : A9301, Barcode 5539693 See also A705, 166/42/30

Aircraft Type: Albermarle Serial number: P 1433 Radio call sign: Unit: 511 Sqn RAF

Summary: Albermarle P1433 of 511 Sqn RAF on an operational flight on 10 August 1943 sent out an SOS from position 3538N, 0734W. This placed it out to sea approx 105 miles west of Tarifa, Spain. Three days of searching did not reveal any trace of the missing aircraft or crew.

Crew: RAAF 403245 FO Valder, J C R (Wireless Operator) RAAF 413709 Flt Sgt Smith, R D C (Pilot – Passenger) RCAF FO Clark, D C W RCAF FO Little, A W RAF Sgt McLellan, W J W RAF Cpl Alexander, R K RAF Sgt Oxley, J RAF Sgt Flower, A J RAF Sgt Woods RAF Sgt Charnok RAF PO Davies RAF Sgt Clarkson

In 1948 it was recorded that the crew and passengers of P1433 had lost their lives at sea and had no known grave.

305 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

423365 Flight Sergeant SMITH, Ronald Alfred

Source: NAA : A9301, Barcode 5530105. See also A705, 166/20/194

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: FK 752 Radio call sign: Unit: 251 Sqn RAF

Summary: Hudson FK 752 of 251 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Reykjavik, Iceland, at 1230 hours on 9 November 1944, to carry out a normal meteorological flight. Clear icing conditions were encountered on the outward leg. The return journey was carried out under similar conditions, until an SOS was received at 2057 hours when the aircraft was approx 75 miles south west of Reykjavik. The trouble being encountered was not stated. At 2105 hours the aircraft key was held down enabling the D/F station to get a bearing. After that there was no further contact with the aircraft which did not return to base.

Crew: RAF FO Lambert, B F Captain (Pilot) RAAF 423365 Flt Sgt Smith, R A (Wireless Operator Air) RAAF 423132 Flt Sgt Jenner, J D, (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Flt Sgt Syms, H J E RAF LAC Martin, I B

Considerable air and sea searches were carried out but no trace of the missing aircraft or crew was found. It was believed that the aircraft had become loaded with ice to such an extent that it was forced down into the sea.

306 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

415743 Flight Sergeant SNOOK, Graham Ernest

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/283

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: JD 156 Radio call sign: Unit: 138 Sqn RAF

Summary: Halifax JD 156 of 138 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Temsford, near Sandy, Bedfordshire at 1827 hours on 16 September 1943 along with other aircraft of the Squadron, to carry out a special mission in Poland. Nothing was heard from JD 156 after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 415368 Flt Sgt Trotter, L A (Pilot) RCAF FO Bradley, J R (Navigator) RAF Flt Sgt Jones, G T (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Johnston, H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 415743 Flt Sgt Snook, G E (Air Gunner) RAAF 422007 Flt Sgt Quinlivan, D R (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Francis, S (Flight Engineer)

Flt Sgt Trotter (RAAF), Flt Sgt Quinlivan (RAAF), Flt Sgt Jones (RAF) and Sgt Francis (RAF) became POW’s. In a later statement by Flt Sgt Trotter he reported that “Flt Sgt Snook was alive and uninjured up to the time the aircraft ditched in the Baltic.Trotter and the other three who became POW’s escaped from the aircraft and were two hours in the water before being taken prisoners. No others were seen to escape from the aircraft and he believed that Flt Sgt Snook and the other two crew members had lost their lives when the aircraft ditched.”

It was later established that the body of Sgt Johnston was washed ashore in Denmark and is buried at Frederikshaven on the east coast of Jutland while that of FO Bradley is interred at Randers. It was recorded that Flt Sgt Snook had lost his life at sea.

307 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

415189 Flight Sergeant SOMERVELL, David Edward

Source: NAA : A9301 Barcode 5531227 No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives.

Aircraft Type: Beaufighter Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 235 Sqn RAF

Summary: RAAF Flt Sgt Somervell (Pilot) of 235 Sqn RAF was reported missing on 28 March 1943 when flying a Beaufighter aircraft on air operations from UK.

308 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

408059 Warrant Officer SOUNDY, John Trevor

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/9

Aircraft Type: Mitchell Serial number: 41-12483 Radio call sign: Unit: 13 (B) Sqn (USAAF)

Summary: Mitchell 41-12483 of No 13 Bomber Sqn USAAF left its base at Charters Towers at 9.30am on 7 January 1943 to fly to Port Moresby, New Guinea and return. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it failed to arrive at Port Moresby.

Crew: RAAF 408059 WO Soundy, J T (Pilot) USAAF 1st Lt Doolan (Co-Pilot) USAAF T/Sgt Butler, J P USAAF T/Sgt Cooper, K A \USAAF S/Sgt Whimsett, M S

309 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400605 Sergeant SPACKMAN, Peter

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

Aircraft Type: Lerwick Serial number: L 7268 Radio call sign: Unit: 4 (C) Op Trg RAF

Summary: Lerwick L7268 of No 4 (C) Operational Training Unit RAF took off at 1100 hours on 14 October 1941 but crashed into the sea six miles ENE off Tarbatness, Scotland, due to engine failure. The flying boat port engine commenced to pop and the pilot experienced difficulty, and at 800 feet the aircraft went into a dive and crashed. It was believed that the port engine failed and the aircraft stalled, with the pilot unable to correct due to lack of height.

Crew: FFF WO Bette, R D (Pilot) (Free French Forces) . RCAF PO Gilmore, G D PO Hall, A G (Observer) RAAF 400605 Sgt Spackman, P (Observer) RNZAF Sgt Johnston J A RAF Sgt Ballard, R W RAF AC1 J K Kidd, RAF AC2 G Kidd, RAF AC2 S O Wainwright, RAF PO Marshall, V (survived) RAF Sgt Cole H F (survived)

There were two survivors from the crash and the bodies of PO Hall and Sgt Ballard were recovered. The remaining missing members including Sgt Spackman (RAAF) lost their lives at sea. Their names are commemorated on he Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK. PO Hall is buried in the Barshill Cemetery, UK. Sgt Ballard is buried in the Badsey (St James) Churchyard, UK.

310 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

413679 Flight Sergeant SPALDING, Norman Wilkie

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/225

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HE 657 Radio call sign: Unit: 104 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HE 657 of 104 Sqn RAF Middle East, took off from Hani West Landing Ground at 2108 hours on the night of 7 August 1943 to attack Cape Palmi, Italy. Cape Palmi is on the south west coast of Italy, approx 20 miles north east of Reggio. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Sgt Hall, K Captain (Pilot) RAAF 414825 Flt Sgt Paterson, J E (Navigator) RAF Sgt Garner, W (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Chauncy, P A R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 413679 Flt Sgt Spalding, N W (Air Gunner)

Following intensive post war searches of the Cape {Palmi area, no trace of the missing aircraft or crew were found, and it was concluded that the crew had lost their lives at sea.

311 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

416799 Sergeant SPARROW, Norman Thomas

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/145

Aircraft Type: Beaufort Serial number: DW 995 Radio call sign: Unit: 5 (C) Op Training RAF

Summary: Beaufort DW 995 of No 5 Conversion Operational Training Unit RAF was detailed to carry out a night navigational exercise on 22 May 1943. The weather was good when the aircraft crashed into the sea off Port Rush, Northern Ireland at 0115 hours on 23 May.

Crew: RCAF PO Post W (Pilot) RAAF 416799 Sgt Sparrow, N T (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RNZAF Sgt Brumy, C H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Booth, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

312 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402411 Sergeant SPENCE, Harold Menzies

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/163/391 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: R 5636 Radio call sign: OL – K Unit: 83 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster R 5636 of 83 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Scampton, Lincoln, at 2214 hours on 11 June 1942 for a mining operation in the vicinity of the Friesian Islands. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF PO Mackay, P S, Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt O’Day, D N (2nd Pilot) RAAF 401086 FO Williams, W K (Navigator/Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Monk, D J (1st Wireless Operator) RCAF Sgt Clark, T H (2nd Wireless Operator) RAAF 402411Sgt Spence, H M (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Melhuissh, T W (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey,UK.

313 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402412 Flight Sergeant STACK, Edward Francis

Source: NAA : A705, 163/163/124

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: W 4176 Radio call sign: Unit: 44 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster W 4176 of No 44 (Rhodesia) Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Waddington at 1751 hours on 9 January 1943 to carry out a mine laying operation in the Baltic Sea, Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF PO Shattock N C Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Barrett, W (Flight Engineer) RAAF 402412 Flt Sgt Stack, E F (Navigator Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Crowley, M J (Air Bomber) RAF Flt Sgt Morton, H W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Bell, J (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Gladwish, R E (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

314 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

411543 Flight Sergeant STANFORD, Bertram James

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/143

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: LA 908 Radio call sign: Unit: 215 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington LA 908 of 215 Sqn RAF India, took off at 2004 hours on 18 May 1943 from Jessore, on night operations to bomb military objectives in Burma. Crews of other aircraft on the mission saw flares dropped in the Praee-Baungua road area at 0036 hours on the 19 May, which was assumed to come from LA 908. Nothing was heard from LA 908 after take off and it did not return to base from the mission.

A Japanese broadcast claimed to have shot down a Wellington in the area in question on that night but no mention was made of the crew.

Crew: RNZAF WO Clarke, R J Captain (Pilot) RAAF 411543 Flt Sgt Stanford, B J (2nd Pilot) RAAF 407076 WO Ising, G E (Navigator Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Murray, J A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Smithson, H T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Nice, B R (Air Gunner.

Following post war investigations and enquiries the search was abandoned for the missing crew in 1946.

315 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407810 Sergeant STEELE, Geoffrey Moore

Source: NAA : A705, 166/163/325

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Z 9713 Radio call sign: Unit: 211 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim Z 9713 of 211 Sqn RAF was lost as a result of enemy action at approx 12.30pm on 6 February 1942. Three aircraft were operating on escort duty and two did not return (Z 7586 and Z 9713), and the third aircraft was shot down on the way back to Palembang. The escort duty was over a convoy from Berhala Straits to Banka Straits.

A survivor (Sgt Offard) from the third aircraft shot down, later stated that “he had seen one Blenheim on fire, but he did not know what happened to the second aircraft missing”.

Crew: RAAF 407810 Sgt Steele, G M (Pilot) RAAF 400417 Sgt Menzies, S K (Observer) RAAF 402033 Sgt Gornall, G H (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations the search for the above missing crew was abandoned in 1950.

316 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

430067 Flight Sergeant STENHOUSE, Hugh

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/666

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: NE 123 Radio call sign: MG – F Unit: 7 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster NE 123 of 7 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Oakington, Cambridge at 2224 hours on 25 August 1944 to carry out an attack on coastal batteries at Brest, France. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Sqn Ldr Chopping, R G DFC Captain (Pilot) RAF FO Bolt, W T (Navigator) RAF FO Munsey, R H (Air Bomber) RAF Flt Sgt Ross, W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Cherry, A G (Flight Engineer) RAAF 430067 Flt Sgt Stenhouse, H (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF FO Marchand, G J (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

317 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

420294 Warrant Officer STENNING, Bruce

Source: NAA : A705, 163/163/333

Aircraft Type: Albermarle Serial number: P 1501 Radio call sign: Unit: 296 Sqn RAF

Summary: Albermarle P 1501 of 296 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Brise Norton, at 2230 hours on the night of 8th August 1944, to carry out a small arms supply drop to the Maquis at position 47.00.14secs N, 0.40.39 secs E. The aircraft failed to return from this mission.

Crew: RAAF 420294 WO Stenning, B Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Abell, E R (Navigator) RAF Flt Sgt Elwood, A F (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Flt Sgt Hammond, G A (Air Gunner) RAF Flt Sgt Manton, F N (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Cowhan, R (Wireless Operator Air) attached from ORTU Hamstead.

It was established post war that the aircraft had been shot down by a German night fighter and crashed about 0300 hours on 9 August 1944 at Val D’ize near Vitre (Ille et Vilaine). The Mayor stated that it was not possible for any member of the crew to escape, with the aircraft crashing in flames and disintegrating. The body of Sgt Cowhan (RAF) had been recovered along with the remains of one unidentified member and both are buried at Bayeaux, France. A memorial plaque has also been installed in the cemetery to commemorate the missing members of the crew.

318 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

9037 Flight Sergeant STEPHENS, Lindsay John

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/38/430 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HF 168 Radio call sign: Unit: ATTD 172 SQN RAF

Summary: Wellington HF168 of 172 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Chivenor, Barnstaple, North Devon, at 1945 hours on 19 February 1944 to carry out a night navigation exercise, and practice descents from 1000 feet to 50 feet at intervals along the track making use of the Leigh Light for attacks on flame floats. The aircraft was fitted with a radio altimeter. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RCAF PO Meech, L R J Captain (Pilot) RCAF Flt Sgt Poore, E F 2nd Pilot) RAAF 9037 Flt Sgt Stephens, L J (Navigator Bombaimer) RAF Flt Sgt Torcher, J W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Richardson, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RCAF Sgt Cohen, B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

319 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

429247 Flight Sergeant STEPHENS, William Arthur

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/718

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: PB 412 Radio call sign: UM – Z2 Unit: 626 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster PB 412 of 626 Sqn RAF took off from Raf Station Wickenby, Lincoln, at 1716 hours on 4 October 1944, on a mine laying operation in enemy waters in the “Silverthorn” area. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RNZAF FO Green, G A Captain (Pilot) RAAF 429247 Flt Sgt Stephens, W A (Navigator) RAF FO Taylor, K E F (Air Bomber) RAAF 423079 Flt Sgt Dickson, W A (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Farley, C F (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Norman, W (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Cohen, L (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

320 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404418 Sergeant STEPHENSON, Robert Worrall

Source: NAA : A705, 163/163/242

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: X 9677 Radio call sign: Unit: 218 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington X 9677 of No 218 (Gold Coast) Sqn RAF was returning from an operational mission on 11 October 1941, when due to a petrol shortage it was force landed into the sea near St Albans Head, Hampshire.

Crew: RAAF 404428 Sgt Bensted, L M RAAF 404549 Sgt Honeyman RAAF 402387 Sgt McLean, A M RAAF 404418 Sgt Stephenson, R W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Pugh, J B RAF Sgt Ireland, E W

Sgts Bensted, Honeyman and McLean were all slightly injured, but Sgt Stephenson drowned.

321 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

422312 Flight Sergeant STEVENS, Baden Henry

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/38/399 Commonwealth War Graves records W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses of thye Second World War, Page 37, Volume 1944.

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: HR 946 Radio call sign: KN – X Unit: 77 Sqn RAF

Summary: Halifax HR 946 of 77 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Elvington, near York, at 1637 hours on the 20/21st January 1944 to bomb Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Lt Surplice, V H DFC Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt L Ashton, (2nd Pilot) (attached from 663 Com Unit) RAF Sgt A A Timson, (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt J L Duffy, DFM (Navigator) RAF Sgt H P Hopkins, (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt T King, DFM (Wireless Operator) RAF Sgt K Emeny (Air Gunner) RAAF 422312 Flt Sgt Stevens, B H (Rear Gunner)

Sgt Duffy (RAF) who became a POW, later stated that the Germans had told him that all the remaining members of the crew had lost their lives. Following post war searches and enquiries it was recorded that the seven missing crew members had no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

322 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

409330 Warrant Officer STEVENSON, Clement Robert

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/515

Aircraft Type: Spitfire Serial number: MJ 483 Radio call sign: Unit: 43 Sqn RAF

Summary: Spitfire MJ 483 of No 43 (China-British) Sqn RAF was airborne at 1208 hours on 4th May 1944 to travel from Lago to Nettuno, Italy, a distance of about 60 miles including a short distance over the sea. The aircraft failed to arrive at its destination. Searches failed to find any trace of the missing aircraft or pilot.

Crew: RAAF 409330 WO Stevenson, C R (Pilot)

It was recorded in 1948 that the missing pilot had no known grave.

323 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407083 Warrant Officer STEVENSON, Noel Lindsay

Source: NAA : A705, 163/163/353

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Z 7803 Radio call sign: Unit: 11 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim Z 7803 of 11 Sqn RAF, Indian Command, was detailed on 9 April 1942 along with other Blenheim aircraft to bomb elements of the Japanese fleet operating in the Trincomalee area Ceylon. Enemy fighters were encountered, and Z 7803 failed to return to base.

Crew: RAAF 407083 WO Stevenson, N L (Pilot) RAF FO Donald, A W (Observer) RAF Sgt Bell, J O W (Air Gunner)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

324 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

412744 Sergeant STOCKBRIDGE, Howard Sydney

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/66

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: DV 914 Radio call sign: Unit: 20 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington DV 914 of No 20 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off on 12 March 1943 on an operational training flight between the Mull of Kintyre and Scarpa Island, West Scotland. The route was Base – Tiree – Mull of Kintyre – Scarpa – Base. No signals were received from the aircraft and it failed to return to base from the exercise. An aircraft was seen by ASR launches exercising in the vicinity of the Island of Tiree to spin into the sea from a height of 10000 feet. It was also separately reported that an RAF Corporal and a civilian had seen an aircraft crash into the sea off the West coast of Scotland and this was considered by the unit to be DV 914.

Crew: RAF Sgt Morris, G E (Pilot) RAAF 414371 Sgt Wright, S R (Navigator) RAAF 414548 Sgt Fitzerald, P J (2nd Navigator) RAAF 420978 Sgt McDonagh, J H (Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Robinson, T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 412744 Sgt Stockbridge, H S (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

325 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405656 Flight Sergeant STONE, John Maynard

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/124

Aircraft Type: Hurricane Serial number: KX 107 Radio call sign: Unit: Royal Air Force Stn Maison Blanche

Summary: Hurricane KX 107 took off at 1300 hours on 25 April 1943 from RAF Maison Blanche for Goubrine, Tunisia, on a press courier service carrying despatches. The aircraft arrived at Euston Souk El-Khemis on 26 April. The aircraft left Euston presumably to return to Maison Blanche at 1245 hours on 27 April 1943, but it failed to arrive at its destination.

Maison Blanche is about 10 miles ESE of Algiers, and Goubrine 30 miles south east of Kairwan in Tunisia. Euston is 15 miles south of Beja, Tunisia.

Crew: RAAF 405656 Flt Sgt Stone, J M (Pilot)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing pilot had no known grave.

326 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400070 Flight Sergeant STONE, Wilfrid

Source: NAA : A9301, Barcode 5549069 AWM 65 (4872) Aircraft Type: Whitley Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 58 Sqn RAF

Summary: A Whitley aircraft of No 58 Sqn RAF based at St Eval with a detachment at Wick, Scotland, was reported missing on an operational mission in the Bay of Biscay on 10 July 1942.

Crew: RAAF 400070 Flt Sgt Stone, W (Observer) No other crew details are available on above file.

327 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407563 Warrant Officer STOTT, William

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/301 AWM 65 (4883)

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: FK 923 Radio call sign: Unit: 120 Sqn RAF

Summary: Liberator FK 923 of 120 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Reykjavik on an anti sub patrol over an Atlantic convoy, on 4 October 1943. At 1130 am a signal from the aircraft was received stating ‘about to carry out an attack’. The signal faded and nothing further was heard from the aircraft which did not return to base. It was considered that the aircraft may have been shot down by flak. Searches were carried out the next day and aircraft were warned to keep a lookout, but no trace of the missing aircraft or crew were found.

Crew: RAF Wg Cdr Longmore, R M OBE, Captain (Pilot) RAF FO Tait, R W RAF Flt Lt Bruce RAF Flt Sgt Parsons RAF Flt Sgt Furr RAAF 407563 WO Stott, W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 406306 WO Mincham, E A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RCAF PO Webber

It was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

328 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

421767 Flight Sergeant STYLES, William Thomas Collins

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/360

Aircraft Type: Oxford Serial number: W 6637 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 (P) Advanced Flying RAF

Summary: Oxford W 6637 of 3 (P) Advanced Flying RAF was detailed for local flying on the afternoon of 3 December 1943. The aircraft took off from RAF Station South Cerney, Cirencester, Gloucester, at 1455 hours. FO Perry was the instructor with Sgt Styles the pupil pilot. The aircraft failed to return to base.

The aircraft was without IFF and RT when flying in the doubtful weather on 3 December. There was a rapid deterioration in the weather after take off although another instructor succeeded in landing at South Cerney an hour and 25 minutes after FO Perry took off from Southrop. A series of Observer Corps plots were received extending from Worcester area at 1807 hours and the Chepstow Filton area at 1839hrs.

No trace of W 6637 or of the crew could be found, it being considered that the aircraft must have crashed either in the Bristol Channel or the Welsh Hills.

Crew: RAAF 414508 FO Perry, L C (Instructor Pilot) RAAF 421767 Sgt Styles, W T C (Pupil Pilot)

329 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402891 Flight Sergeant SULLIVAN, John Bernard

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/51

Aircraft Type: Baltimore Serial number: AG 796 Radio call sign: Unit: 69 Sqn RAF

Summary: Baltimore AG 796 of 69 Sqn RAF Malta, took off at 1025 hours on 23 February 1943 on an operational reconnaissance. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Oldrieve, F R (Pilot) RAF FO Heywood, R A (Observer) RAAF 403686 Flt Sgt Chandler, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 402891 Flt Sgt Sullivan, J B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

330 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400359 Sergeant SULLIVAN, Maurice Anthony GM Source: NAA : A705, 163/164/81 AWM, G H File RAAF 1. (London Gazette of 24/3/1942 Page 1327 refers) Aircraft Type: Stirling Serial number: N 3680 Radio call sign: Unit: 7 Sqn RAF Summary: Stirling N3680 of 7 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Oakington at 0940 hours on 18 December 1941 detailed to attack Brest. The aircraft which was last seen over the target, failed to return to base. It was believed that it was shot down by ME 109’s over the French coast. Crew: RAF Flt Lt Parnell, B MID Captain (Pilot) RNZAF Sgt Taylor, K R RAF Sgt Pulford, J H M RCAF PO Dorban, H F RAF Flt Sgt Wheatley, R RAF Flt Sgt Wright, T P RAAF 400359 Sgt Sullivan, M A GM (Rear Gunner) Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

On the 18th November 1941 Sgt Sullivan was rear gunner in a Stirling aircraft detailed to attack Brest in France. The aircraft NG087 took off from RAF Station Oakington, Cambridgeshire at 1458 hours, and on the return trip from the target the port outer engine caught fire, and the pilot Flt Lt J T O’Brien (RAF) decided to make an emergency landing. The aircraft flew into telegraph wires and crashed at West Bluntisham, 12 miles north west of Cambridge. UK. The Citation itself now takes up the story.

Citation GM : “Sgt M A Sullivan (RAAF) was awarded the George Medal for gallantry of the highest order when the aircraft he was rear gunner in crashed and burst into flames in November 1941. Sgt Sullivan got out of his rear turret and finding no other crew member clear of the crash, he clambered along the blazing wing and despite having a burnt hand, continued into the fuselage to rescue other members of the crew. With the assistance of two soldiers who had since arrived on the scene he was able to remove to safety a member of the crew who had a broken leg. He returned to the crash and again entering the fuselage succeeded, with the assistance of one of the soldiers in removing another member of the crew who also had a broken leg. Despite the growing intensity of the fire he entered the fuselage for a third time to make sure that no other

331 member of the crew was present. He noticed through the tangled wreckage that one of the soldiers was working frantically to extricate the navigator who had been trapped in the forward part of the compartment. He therefore ran around to assist him and together they succeeded in removing the navigator who had serious head injuries. He then helped the soldiers remove the remaining three members of the crew and as soon as these had been extricated there was a violent explosion from a bomb. Sergeant Sullivan showed the highest degree of gallantry throughout and his example was undoubtedly a source of inspiration to the other rescuers.”

His brother 409250 Sgt L G Sullivan RAAF, was awarded the DFM on 30 November 1943 (London Gazette Page 5243). At the time he was a pilot attached to 150 Sqn RAF based in North Africa and flying Wellingtons On 10 January 1945 the then Flt Lot L G Sullivan lost his life when flying a Mosquito NS891 from RAF Station Fersfield in Norfolk UK on a low level cross country exercise. His navigator FO D E Ball (RAAF) DFC was also killed in the accident.

332 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404465 Sergeant SUMMERVILLE, Kent Oswald Thompson

Source: NAA : A705, 163/164/135

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: R 5902 Radio call sign: VN – T Unit: 50 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster R 5902 of 50 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Swinderby, Lincolnshire, at 1805 hours on the night of 12 October 1942, to attack Wismar, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off, and it failed to return to base.

Crew: RAF Sgt Rawlins, M H Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Hacker, R A W (Flight Engineer) RAAF 402528 Sgt McKerrow, T (Navigator) RAAF 404465 Sgt Summerville, K O T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Dabbs, A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Dacey, F V (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Parker, S H (Air Gunner)

In a later statement by Sgt McKerrow (RAAF) who became a POW, he reported that “he had no information re. the fate of the six other crew members other than the body of Sgt Hacker had been washed up in Lubeck Bay in November 1942, and that to the best of his knowledge all other members were killed. After the plane was hit it went into a tight spin, with the pilot trying to pull it out. The inter com was U/S and he put on his chute and was bending down for the chutes of the pilot and engineer, when there was as explosion. He blacked out, and can’t remember anything more until he came to falling in the air. He pulled the rip cord, landed in the sea, and a German launch picked him up. A search of the area failed to find any other survivors. He believed the aircraft had blown up.”

It was later established that the aircraft had crashed in Lubeck Bay at 9.45pm on 12th October, some 10 miles from the east coast and approx 34 miles south east of Kiel and Lubeck. The body of Sgt Hacker is buried in Hamburg Cemetery, Ohlsdorf, while the other missing crew members have no known grave.

333 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403769 Leading Aircraftman SUTTON, Bede Bernard

Source: NAA : A705, 163/164/85

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 Air Observers School RCAF

Summary: An Anson of No 1 Air Observers School RCAF departed St John’s Quebec at 1800 hours on 8 January 1942, on a routine night training flight to Malton a distance of 323 miles, and then return. The aircraft reported from Montreal as setting course for Malton but it failed to reach its destination.

Crew: Mr Rutherdord, C B (Staff Pilot Civilian) RAAF 411569 LAC Witts, J (Trainee Air Observer) RAAF 403769 LAC Sutton, B B (Trainee Air Observer) RCAF LAC Morgan, A M (Trainee)

In subsequent searches an aircraft fuselage was located on the shore of Lake Ontario near Watertown, New York, but was not identified. No trace of any survivors was found.

334 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

416627 Warrant Officer SWAN, Clive Symes Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/474 Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: BZ 978 Radio call sign: Unit: 159 Sqn RAF Summary: Liberator BZ 978 of 159 Sqn RAF took off on 5 October 1944 together with 15 other aircraft, on a low level attack on the Bangkok – Lampang railway line from Uttardit to Bhanpajii. Locomotives were the primary target with opportunity targets along the railway line secondary. An SOS was received from BZ 978, and another 35 minutes later saying “Trying Chittagong, two engines U/s, height 5000 feet, air speed 140 mph.” twenty four minutes later another message was received “ unable to receive due to heavy interference”. Eleven minutes later a final message to Base Control said “attacked by two enemy fighters over target, one dead and two wounded” This was the last message received from the aircraft which did not return to base.

ASR and air searches were carried out over the area the aircraft was thought to have ditched. These reported on the night of 6/7th October that flashing lights and pyrotechnics were seen in position 18.30N, 92.50E. No dinghy was seen. On 7 October a dinghy was seen in position 18.55N, 92.22E. On 9 October a dinghy was again sighted, but there was doubt whether this was the unit’s dinghy. Nothing further was seen of the crew or dinghy. Crew: RAF WO McKinnon, J Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Roper, L J (2nd Pilot) RAAF 416627 WO Swan, C S (Navigator) RAAF 420172 WO Ford, E P Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Hill, F E RAAF 423854 Flt Sgt Nelson, J A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Flt Sgt Paterson, W N (Air Gunner) RCAF Flt Sgt Richardson, H F (Air Gunner)

Flt Sgt Richardson (RAF) reached the shore in a dinghy, but subsequently died in Rangoon jail on 28 October 1944. Flt Sgt Roper and Sgt Hill (RAF) successfully reached shore in a dinghy, survived and returned to the UK safe. It was established that WO Ford (RAAF) was killed in the air by gun fire from enemy aircraft, and his body was not recovered. Also the four other missing crew members were not seen to leave the aircraft after ditching and their bodies were not recovered.

335 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

421867 Flight Sergeant SWANBURY, William George

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/486

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: BZ 913 Radio call sign: Unit: 547 Sqn RAF

Summary: Liberator BZ 913 of 547 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station St Eval, Wadebridge, Cornwall, at 0602 hours on 12 April 1944 on an anti-sub patrol in the Bay of Biscay.

Crew: RAAF 421867 Flt Sgt E.G.Swanbury, Pilot. RAAF 410579 Flt Sgt K.W.Webb, Navigtator Bombaimer RAAF 417634 Flt Sgt M.R.Goldney, Navigator Bombaimer. RAAF 421846 Flt Sgt K.R.Foster, Wireless Operator Air. RAAF 422141 Flt Sgt E.Daniels, Wireless Operator Air. RAF Flt Sgt Sutton. RAF Sgt Wood. RAF Sgt Crosbie. RAF FO Ryer.

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

336 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

427959 Flight Sergeant SWEENEY, Francis Raymond

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/18/367 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: LP 120 Radio call sign: Unit: ATTD 40 SQN RAF

Summary: Wellington LP 120 of 40 Sqn RAF, Central Mediterranean Force, took off at 2141 hours on the night of 2nd June 1944 from Foggia, Italy, to attack Giurgiu, Romania. The aircraft failed to return to base after the mission.

Crew: RAAF 415462 Flt Sgt F R Hughes, Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt K Shaw, (Navigator) RAF Sgt W E Samler, (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Flt Sgt A S Millar, (Air Bomber) RAAF 427959 Flt Sgt F R Sweeney, (Air Gunner)

Flt Sgt Shaw who survived the crash later reported “ the aircraft crashed approx 15 miles south of Pirot in Yugoslavia. The aircraft was at 13000 feet when the pilot requested a course to base and when turning there was an explosion and both engines failed. The order to bale out was given and that he and both Sgt Millar and Flt Sgt Sweeney left the aircraft. At the time both Samler and Hughes were still in the aircraft. Hughes was uninjured and the aircraft was under control. The aircraft was over rough country 40 miles west of Sofia. Shaw saw 2 parachutes on the ground next morning and assumed they belonged to both Sweeney and Millar.”

The other four members of the crew have no known grave and their names are commemorated on the Malta Memorial. The Memorial is situated in the area of Floriana and is easily identified by the Golden Eagle which surmounts the column. It stands outside the entrance to Valletta.

337 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

424572 Warrant Officer SYMONDS, Leslie James

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/857

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: ND 728 Radio call sign: PG – N Unit: 619 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster ND 728 of 619 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Strubby, Alford Lincolnshire, at 0122 hours on 5 January 1945 to attack Royan, France. Nothing further was heard of the aircraft or crew after take off.

Crew: RAAF 417746 FO Gray, D, Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Johnson, A (Flight Engineer) RAF Flt Sgt Morley, E A (Navigator) RAF Flt Sgt Insley, H (Air Bomber) RAAF 424572 WO Symonds, L F (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Brown, R (Mid upper gunner) RAF Sgt Bartholomew, W B (Rear gunner)

In 1948 it was established that Sgt Bartholomew was washed ashore on the French coast and buried at Soulac des Olives Communal cemetery, France, which is located six miles south of the mouth of the Gironde River. It was also recorded that the remaining six crew members were lost at sea.

338 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400442 Sergeant SYNNOT, James Murray

Source: NAA : A705, 166/38/53

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: R 1162 Radio call sign: Unit: 27 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington R 1162 of No 27 Operational Training Unit, RAF, took off shortly before midnight on 25 June 11942, on a night operation against Bremen, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base. Other crews reported that the aircraft was possibly shot down over the target.

Crew: RCAF PO Lamb, T F Captain (Pilot) RAAF 405174 Sgt Cox, N H (Observer) RAAF 403940 Sgt Mathers. J B (Observer) RAAF 403786 Sgt Poynting, K H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 400442 Sgt Synnot, J M (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

339 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

12414 Sergeant DAWSON, Peter Hamilton

Source: NAA : A705, 163/100/252

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: AM 676 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 (C) Op Training RAF

Summary: Hudson AM 676 on No 1 (C) Operational Training Unit, took off from RAF Silloth, Scotland, on 25 August 1942 on a bombing range exercise. At 1610 hours a message was received from the aircraft confirming that the bombs had been dropped. Soon after at 1620 hours it was reported that an aircraft had crashed in the sea beyond the bombing range into the Solway Firth. ASR searches recovered the bodies of three RCAF crew members, and the tunic of Sgt Dawson (RAAF) was recovered.

Crew: RAAF 12414 Sgt Dawson, P H (Pilot) RAF Sgt Cowie, A RCAF Sgt McMillan, K R RCAF Sgt Randall, C L RCAF Sgt McKenzie, R D

Sgts McMillan and Randall are buried in the Annan Cemetery on the north coast of Solway Firth, and Sgt McKenzie at Silloth Cemetery on the south coast of Solway Firth. Both Sgt Dawson (RAAF) and Sgt Cowie (RAF) are listed as missing and had lost their lives at sea.

340 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402010 Sergeant TARANTO, Thomas

Source: NAA : A705, 163/165/63

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: Z 8330 Radio call sign: Unit: 148 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington Z 8330 of 148 Sqn RAF took off on the night of 28th/29 October 1941 on a routine patrol over the Eastern Mediterranean. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 402010 Sgt Taranto T Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Warner, D H (2nd Pilot) RAF PO Elliot, D MJ (Observer) RAF Sgt Ray, S C (Wireless Operator) RAF Sgt Gonley, D F (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Bramwell, D (Air Gunner)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea

341 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

437369 Flight Sergeant TARRANT, Cecil James

Source: NAA : A705, 166/39/513

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: RF 145 Radio call sign: CF – Z Unit: 625 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster RF 145 of 625 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Kelstern, near Louth, Lincolnshire on 16 March 1945 to attack the target Nurnberg, Germany. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 424322 FO Rolls, P M, Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Jones, D B (Pilot/Engineer) RAAF 436573 Flt Sgt Ryan, T M (Air Bomber) RAAF 433648 Flt Sgt Rhodes, R C (Navigator) RAAF 435192 Flt Sgt Teague, T W (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 437369 Flt Sgt Tarrant, C J (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Clark, G A (Rear Gunner)

In a later statement by Flt Sgt Ryan (RAAF) who became a POW he reported “I assume the other 6 members of the crew were in the aircraft when I baled out. I have no definite information regarding their probable fate. I saw no parachutes nor did I receive any information regarding these men after my descent. Approx 5 minutes before reaching the target, the aircraft was hit by a night fighter. The aircraft burst into flames somewhere aft of my compartment. The Captain ordered bale out and I baled out at 16,000 feet. The aircraft appeared under control but evidently badly in flames. Assuming that the aircraft crashed soon after my leaving, that would be 5 minutes before Nurnberg. We were on a north east heading and carrying a full bomb load when hit, and there may have been a mid-air explosion.”

Following post war enquiries and investigations, the remains of Sgt Jones (RAF) were identified as that which fell at Burglein on the night of 16 March 45, and were interred at Durnbach War Cemetery, Germany. Burglein is approx 14 miles south west of Nurnbach. No trace of the aircraft or of other members of the crew was found, and in 1949 it was recorded that the missing members have no known grave.

342 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

19183 Flight Sergeant EVANS, Thomas

Source: NAA : A705, 166/112/173

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: WD 639 Radio call sign: Unit: 1667 Conversion Aircrew School RAF

Summary: Lancaster WD 639 of 1667 Conversion Aircrew School, RAF took off from RAF Sandtoft, near Doncaster, Yorkshire, at 0258 hours on the morning of 5 April 1945, to carry out a non operational training flight. The aircraft dived into the ground in a field about three quarters of a mile from Crowle, Lincolnshire.

Crew: RAAF 434588 PO Grayson, J E Captain (Pilot) RAAF 437422 Flt Sgt Kilsby, M B (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAAF 434240 Flt Sgt Castor, E J (Air Bomber) RAAF 432937 Flt Sgt Bennett, W S Wireless Operator Air) RAAF 429952 Flt Sgt Hayes, D L (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 19183 Flt Sgt Evans, T (Rear Gunner) RAF Sgt Crawhall, (Flight Engineer)

A major portion of the aircraft was buried in soft earth, and after five bodies were recovered, digging was suspended owing to a crater falling in. The bodies of Flt Sgt Hayes (RAAF) and Flt Sgt Evans (RAAF) were not recovered, and their names are recorded on a Special Memorial at RAF Cemetery, Yorkshire.

343 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402417 Flight Sergeant TAYLOR, Archie William

Source: NAA : A9301, Barcode 5538569

Aircraft Type: Beaufighter Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 236 Sqn RAF

Summary: A Beaufighter aircraft of No 236 Sqn RAF based at RAF Wattisham, was reported missing on air operations over the English Channel, on 28 March 1942.

Crew: RAAF 402417 Flt Sgt Taylor, A W (Pilot) Detail of the other crew member are not recorded on the above file.

344 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

408788 Flight Sergeant TAYLOR, Roy John

Source: NAA : A705, 166/39/114 AWM 65 (4991)

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HZ 351 Radio call sign: Unit: 547 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HZ 351 of 547 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Davidston Moore, Camelford, Cornwall, at 1410 hours on 15 August 1943 to carry out an operational sortie in the Bay of Biscay. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. The enemy claimed to have destroyed four British aircraft in the area that day, but it is not known if it included HZ 351.

Crew: RNZAF PO White, J Captain (Pilot) RAF PO Blunt, J (2nd Pilot) RAF PO Fisher, (Navigator) RAAF 12168 WO Bathurst, A L (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 408784 Flt Sgt Simpson,, L G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 408788 Flt Sgt Taylor, R J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

345 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

434558 Flight Sergeant TAYLOR, William Irving

Source: NAA : A705, 166/39/240

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: ND 695 Radio call sign: Unit: 630 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster ND 695 of 630 Sqn RAF took off from East Kirkby airfield near Spilsby, Lincolnshire, at 2238 hours on 22 May 1944 to attack a target at Brunswick, Germany. Nothing further was heard of the aircraft or crew.

Crew: RAAF 414903 PO Brown, V W, Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Haig, D B (Flight Engineer) RAAF 415187 WO Sinclair, K A (Navigator) RAF Sgt Connor, T W (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Saxby, W J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Binne, J (Air Gunner) RAAF 434558 Flt Sgt Taylor, W I (Air Gunner)

346 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

435192 Flight Sergeant TEAGUE, John William

Source: NAA : A705, 166/39/514 Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: RF 145 Radio call sign: CF – Z Unit: 625 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster RF 145 of 625 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Kelstern, near Louth, Lincolnshire on 16 March 1945 to attack the target Nurnberg, Germany. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 424322 FO Rolls, P M, Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Jones, D B (Pilot/Engineer) RAAF 436573 Flt Sgt Ryan, T M (Air Bomber) RAAF 433648 Flt Sgt Rhodes, R C (Navigator) RAAF 435192 Flt Sgt Teague, T W (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 437369 Flt Sgt Tarrant, C J (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Clark, G A (Rear Gunner)

In a later statement by Flt Sgt Ryan (RAAF) who became a POW he reported “I assume the other 6 members of the crew were in the aircraft when I baled out. I have no definite information regarding their probable fate. I saw no parachutes nor did I receive any information regarding these men after my descent. Approx 5 minutes before reaching the target, the aircraft was hit by a night fighter. The aircraft burst into flames somewhere aft of my compartment. The Captain ordered bale out and I baled out at 16,000 feet. The aircraft appeared under control but evidently badly in flames. Assuming that the aircraft crashed soon after my leaving, that would be 5 minutes before Nurnberg. We were on a north east heading and carrying a full bomb load when hit, and there may have been a mid-air explosion.”

Following post war enquiries and investigations, the remains of Sgt Jones (RAF) were identified as that which fell at Burglein on the night of 16 March 45, and were interred at Durnbach War Cemetery, Germany. Burglein is approx 14 miles south west of Nurnbach. No trace of the aircraft or of other members of the crew was found, and in 1949 it was recorded that the missing members have no known grave.

347 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

437884 Flight Sergeant TELFORD, Angus Reginald

Source: NAA : A705, 166/39/373

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: MF 698 Radio call sign: Unit: 30 Operational Trg RAF

Summary: Wellington MF 698 of 30 Operational Training Unit RAF took off from RAF Seighfo satellite drome at 0300 hours on 12 October 1944, on a night cross country exercise. Approx 30 minutes after take off the first position report was received from the aircraft, but after that nothing was heard and MF 698 did not return to base. The route of the exercise was over the Cardigan Bay area.

Crew: RAAF 427966 PO White, D.G., Pilot. RAAF 426094 WO J.R.Gibson, Navigator. RAAF 419758 Sgt R.G.Kingsley, Air Bomber RAAF 437884 Flt Sgt A.R.Telford, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAAF 433034 Flt Sgt W.M.Schafer, Air Gunner. RAF Sgt N.Glasper, A/c. RAF FO Woodley, W., Flying Instructor. RAF FO Pegrum, A., Flying Instructor.

In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

348 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404698 Flight Sergeant THOMAS, Thomas Naunton

Source: NAA : A705, 163/166/267

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: DV 520 Radio call sign: Unit: 148 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington DV 520 of 148 Sqn RAF, Middle East, took off at 2010 hours on the night of 27/28th September 1942 to bomb harbour installations at Tobruk Harbour. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. The bomb load carried was 3 x 250lb GP and 36 x 40lb GP bombs.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Beale, N G Captain (Pilot) RAAF 404698 Flt Sgt Thomas, T N (2nd Pilot) RCAF Flt Sgt Williams, R J (Observer) RAF Sgt Weir, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Noble, J (Front Gunner) RAF Sgt Moir, J M S (Rear Gunner)

Following post war searches and enquiries it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

349 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

401199 Sergeant THOMPSON, Arthur Alan

Source: NAA : A705, 163/166/188

Aircraft Type: Whitley Serial number: P 5083 Radio call sign: Unit: 3 (C) Op Trg RAF

Summary: Whitley P 5083 of No 3 Operational Training Unit RAF, was detailed on 9 March 1942, along with 4 other aircraft to carry out a navigational training exercise over the sea, to a position in the North Sea 300 miles east of Brora on the east coast of Scotland.

P5083 took off at 1045 hours from RAF Cranwell which is 13 miles south east of Lincoln, and a message was received from the aircraft at 1237 hours. At about 1600 hours the weather at RAF Cranwell deteriorated, and P5083 could not be contacted by base. The other aircraft returned to base independently between 1700 and 1730 hours.

Crew: RAF PO Gill, F C Captain (Pilot) RCAF Sgt Mosey, J W (2nd Pilot) RAAF 401199 Sgt Thompson, A A (Observer) RCAF Sgt Anger, F H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RCAF Sgt Galloway, A J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

350 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

401864 Flight Sergeant THOMPSON, Harold Classen

Source: NAA : A705, 163/166/262

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: BJ 776 Radio call sign: Unit: 12 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington BJ 776 of 12 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Wickenby, at 7.30pm on 26 September 1942 to carry out a sea mining mission in German territorial waters in the Kiel Bay area. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 402989 FO Ward, J S, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 401864 Sgt Thompson, H C (Navigator) RAAF 411320 Sgt Harden, J B (Air Bomber) RAAF 403375 Sgt Rich, A C (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 406812 Sgt Mitchell, P R (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

351 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403437 Flight Sergeant THOMPSON, Jack Irvine

Source: NAA : A705, 163/166/239

Aircraft Type: Marauder Serial number: FK 150 Radio call sign: Unit: 14 Sqn RAF

Summary: Marauder FK 150 of 14 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Shallufa at 1045 hours on 15 February 1943 together with Marauder FK 142 to carry out an offensive sweep with torpedo’s in the Aegean Sea. No message was received from FK 150 after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 402766 PO Truman, C C, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 403437 Flt Sgt Thompson, J I (2nd Pilot) RNZAF FO Connell, B T (Navigator) RAAF 407363 Flt Sgt Hope, R E H (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Firth, K (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Semple, W J (Air Gunner)

Marauder FK 142 subsequently made a forced landing in Turkey, and the crew were interned in Ankara. They were later released and rejoined the Squadron. In a statement made by this crew they reported that “they last saw FK 150 in the Euboean Sea heading north east about 1600 hours and it did not appear to be in trouble. FK 150 was in W/T/communication with the accompanying aircraft until 1630 hours, and then nothing further was heard.”

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

352 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404044 Flight Sergeant THOMSON, John Lidsay Matthews

Source: NAA : A705, 163/166/298

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: AD 637 Radio call sign: Unit: 148 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington AD 637 of 148 Sqn RAF was detailed to attack enemy stores in Benghazi Harbour on the night of 13/14th November 1942. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after it took off at 1933 hours, and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 400638 PO Sharpe, W G (Pilot) RAF PO Davidson, I G E (Pilot) RAF Sgt Jones, J M (Observer) RCAF Sgt Lane (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 404044 Flt Sgt Thomson, J L M (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Swift (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

353 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

410107 Flight Sergeant THORNTON, Lewis

Source: NAA : A705, 166/39/217

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: FK 804 Radio call sign: Unit: 608 Sqn RAF

Summary: Hudson F|K 804 of 608 Sqn RAF took off on from Gaudo (Salerno Bay) at 1420 hours on the 27th January 1944 to carry out an anti sub patrol south east of the bridgehead south of Rome. The weather was fine and the visibility 10/15 miles.

The aircraft was due back at 2030 hours, but wireless silence was maintained until 2020 hours when a bearing from Malta was requested. This was passed and acknowledged at 2025 hours. Then a distress call was received at 2043 hours and the aircraft received several first class bearings from Malta between 2043 and 2100 hours. After this the aircraft transmitted “may be forced to land engine trouble”, with a final SOS being sent at 2110 hours. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft and it failed to return to base.

The bearings indicated that FK 804 had force landed near the western tip of Sicily. ASR searches did not locate the missing aircraft or crew.

Crew: RAF Sgt Cox, R G (Pilot) RAAF 410107 Flt Sgt Thornton, L (Navigator Bombaimer) RCAF WO Ferris, W K (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Trasler, J R (Wireless Operator Air)

Post war searches established that Sgt Cox (RAF) had been buried in the Catania British Cemetery. The body of WO Ferris was washed ashore at Sidi Barrani in June 1944 and was buried in an isolated grave. It was recorded that the two missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

354 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

414102 Sergeant THUREGHT, Norman Ray

Source: NAA : A9301 Bar Code 5540696 No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: W 4894 Radio call sign: GT - T Unit: 156 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster W4894 of 156 Sqn RAF of RAF Station Wyton, Huntingdon, took off from Warboys drome at 1948 hours on 3 April 1943 to attack Essen, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 416410 Flt Sgt Byass, R A Captain (Pilot) RAAF 409519 FO Black, G J (Navigator) RAAF 414102 Sgt Thurecht, N R (Bombaimer) RAAF 415000 Sgt Trigwell, R S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Minns, G R (Flight Engineer) RCAF Sgt Robertson, D L (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Crooks, S E (Rear Gunner)

Sgt Crooks body was washed ashore on 8 November 1943 at Oosterland, Wieringen, Holland and is buried at the Military cemetery, Helder. In 1947 it was recorded that the remaining missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

In the 1990’s wreckage of the aircraft was found in the Waddenzee and it is believed the aircraft was shot down by a German night fighter east of Texel Island, Holland.

355 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

417014 Flight Sergeant THYER, Leon John

Source: NAA : A705, 166/39/221

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: LN 515 Radio call sign: Unit: 150 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington LN 515 of 150 Sqn RAF, Central Mediterranean Forces, took off at 1717 hours on 23 January 1944 to bomb an aircraft factory at Maribor, north west Yugoslavia. The aircraft failed to return from this mission. Severe icing conditions were experienced by other aircraft on the same mission.

Crew: RAAF 417014 Flt Sgt Thyer, L J Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Walters, M F R (Navigator) RAF Sgt Cane, E G (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Williams, R (Air Bomber) RAAF 428729 Flt Sgt Marketo, M P (Air Gunner)

Following post war investigations and enquiries, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had no known grave.

356 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

401162 Sergeant TIPPETT, Arthur James

Source: NAA : A705, 163/167/50

Aircraft Type: Hampden Serial number: N 9106 Radio call sign: Unit: 415 RCAF Sqn

Summary: Hampden N 9106 of 415 (Swordfish) Sqn RCAF, took off at 0100 hours on 21st November 1942 to carry out a night torpedo attack. The weather was adverse with low cloud. A W/T message was received from the aircraft at 7hours 35 minutes after take off when the aircraft was near the limit of its endurance, but the aircraft could not be contacted again nor a bearing or fix obtained. The aircraft was new and in excellent condition.

Crew: RAAF 401162 Sgt Tippett, A J (Pilot) RAF PO Lynn, J (Observer) RNZAF Sgt Sleep, R T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RNZAF Sgt Millar, D I G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

The bodies of PO Lynch, Sgt Sleep and Sgt Millar were washed ashore in the vicinity of Wissant on the French coast 8 miles south west of Calais. They are interred in the Pihen Les Guines New British Cemetery 8 miles east of Wissant. In 1949 it was recorded that Sgt Tippett had lost his life at sea.

357 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402758 Warrant Officer TOOHEY, Brian Aloysius

Source: NAA : A705, 163/168/132

Aircraft Type: Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 100 Sqn RAF

Summary: WO Toohey (RAAF) an Observer of No 100 Sqn RAF who was listed as missing in the Far East, was mentioned as a POW in a Japanese broadcast from Batavia, Java. He lost his life when a Japanese transport carrying POW’s to Japan, was sunk 60 miles from Nagasaki, Japan, at approx 1155 pm on 24 June 1944.

358 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404786 Sergeant TOOHILL, Noel Messines

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/168/110 Commonwealth War Graves records W R Chorley: RAF Bomber Command Losses of the Second World War, Page 17, Volume 1942.

Aircraft Type: Manchester Serial number: L 7322 Radio call sign: EM – Q Unit: ATTD 207 SQN RAF

Summary: Manchester L 7322 of 207 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Bottesford, Nottingham at 0359 hours on 9 January 1942, in company with other aircraft to attack the Scharnhorst and Gneissnau at Brest. L 7322 carried 4 x 2000 lb A P bombs. Other aircraft on the mission reported that the weather and visibility en route was poor, and over the target there was 8-10/10ths cloud and a half moon. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF PO Bayley, G R Captain (Pilot) RAAF 404786 Sgt Toohill, N M (2nd Pilot) RAF Sgt Harris, A G (Observer) RAF Flt Sgt Jones, J E DFM (1st Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Flt Sgt Griffiths, R V (2nd Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 407806 Sgt Seymour, W E (Air Gunner) RAAF 406450 Sgt Goldie, P C H (Air Gunner)

Post war enquiries and investigations established that the aircraft crashed in the sea near Crozon (Finistere), France, at approx 6am on 9 January 1942. There were no survivors. The bodies of PO Bayley (RAF), Sgt Seymour and Sgt Goldie (RAAF) were washed ashore and are interred in the Crozon Local Cemetery, France. In 1948 it was recorded that the remaining missing crew members lost their lives at sea. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK.

359 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

413287 Sergeant TORRENS, Arthur Williams

Source: NAA : A705, 166/40/56

Aircraft Type: Mitchell Serial number: CFR 382 Radio call sign: Unit: 111 Op Training RCAF

Summary: Mitchell CFR 382 of No 111 Operational Training Unit, RCAF, took off at 1445 hours on 28 June 1943, to carry out an operational air exercise at sea in the vicinity of Nassau, Bahamas. Wireless communication ceased at 1515 hours and the aircraft failed to return to base from the exercise.

In later searches an empty dinghy and an oleo leg from the aircraft were recovered from the sea in position 25.09N, 77.53W, but no trace of any survivors was found.

Crew: RCAF PO Stinson, W L Captain (Pilot) RAAF 413287 Sgt Torrens, A W (2nd Pilot) RAAF 421283 Sgt Keayes, J B (Navigator – Pupil) RCAF Sgt Wallace, T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner – Pupil) RCAF Sgt Orgen, C E (Wireless Operator Air Gunner – Pupil) RCAF Sgt Beaultie, A J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner – Pupil) RAF Sgt Smart, C L (Wireless Operator Air Gunner – Pupil)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

360 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

29856 Warrant Officer TOVEY, Brian Douglas

Source: NAA : A9301, Barcode 4426645 No RAAF Casualty file if held by Archives See A705, 166/38/956 Aircraft Type: Stirling Serial number: LK 272 Radio call sign: Unit: 138 Sqn RAF

Summary: Stirling LK 272 of 138 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Tempsford, near Sandy, Bedfordshire, at 1939 hours on 26 February 1945, together with other Squadron aircraft on a special mission to drop containers at a point in Norway, 3kms north of Flintiseter and 23kms south east of Torpe. Nothing was heard from LK 272 after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Lt Cornwallis, Captain (Pilot) RAF PO Pepworth, S A (Navigator) RAAF 422817 FO Stanton, J E (Air Bomber) RAAF 29856 WO Tovey, B D (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RCAF Flt Sgt Hagarty, S S (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Cory (Air Gunner) RAF FO Cornall, L J, DFC (Flight Engineer)

Following post war enquiries and investigations it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

361 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

406964 Sergeant TOWNSEND, Charles Richard

Source: NAA : A705, 166/40/16

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HZ 263 Radio call sign: EX – E Unit: 199 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HZ 263 of 199 Sqn RAF took off from a satellite drome at Ingham at 1938 hours on the night of 12/13th March 1943 to attack Essen, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Lt King, W J Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Nunn, D A (Navigator) RAAF 406964 Sgt Townsend, C R (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt White, C F (Wireless Operator) RCAF Sgt Edwards, R I (Air Gunner)

The body of Sgt Edwards (RCAF) was washed ashore the coast of Holland, some 20 miles north of Haarlem, and is interred in the Bergen General Cemetery. It was recorded in 1949 that the remaining missing member of the crew had lost their lives at sea.

362 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

408017 Sergeant TRAVERS, Archibald Richard

Source: NAA : A705, 163/168/127

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: R 3911 Radio call sign: Unit: 11 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim R 3911 of 11 Sqn RAF India, was detailed on 9 April 1942 to bomb enemy shipping. It was lost at approx 12 midday as a result of enemy action.

Crew: RAAF 404107 Sgt MacLennan, H A (Pilot) RAAF 408017 Sgt Travers, A R (Observer) RAAF 400120 Sgt Nell, F J G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

363 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402893 Sergeant TREGEAR, Frank Webster

Source: NAA : A705, 163/168/130

Aircraft Type: Kittyhawk Serial number: AK 966 Radio call sign: Unit: 260 Sqn RAF

Summary: Kittyhawk AK 966 of 260 Sqn RAF, Middle East was strafing an enemy motor transport column on 24 April 1942 near Cyrenaica, Libya. While passing over the target after the attack a lorry blew up and the aircraft was seen to crash in flames.

Crew: RAAF 402893 Sgt Tregear, F W (Pilot)

Following post war searches and investigations when no trace of the aircraft or the missing pilot was found, it was recorded in 1949 that Sgt Tregear had no known grave.

364 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407554 Sergeant TRELOAR, Colin Burns

Source: NAA : A705, 163/168/103

Aircraft Type: Catalina Serial number: W 84178 Radio call sign: Unit: 205 Sqn RAF

Summary: Catalina W84178 of 205 Sqn RAF took off from Singapore shortly before dawn on 7 December 1941, detailed to intercept a convoy in the China Sea near Siam. The enemy claimed to have attacked with fighters and destroyed a flying boat in the Gulf of Siam on 7th December 1941. W84178 failed to return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Webb, W B RAF Sgt Bailey, E A RAAF 407554 Sgt Treloar, C B (Observer) RAF FO Bedell, P E RAF Sgt Abram, S RAF Sgt Eaton, P RAF LAC Chapman, RAF AC1 Burnett, W D

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

365 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

415000 Sergeant TRIGWELL, Russell Seymour

Source: NAA : A705, 166/40/25

Aircraft Type: Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: W 4894 Radio call sign: GT - T Unit: 156 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster W4894 of 156 Sqn RAF of RAF Station Wyton, Huntingdon, took off from Warboys drome at 1948 hours on 3 April 1943 to attack Essen, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off, and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 416410 Flt Sgt Byass, R A Captain (Pilot) RAAF 409519 FO Black, G J (Navigator) RAAF 414102 Sgt Thurecht, N R (Bombaimer) RAAF 415000 Sgt Trigwell, R S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Minns, G R (Flight Engineer) RCAF Sgt Robertson, D L (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Crooks, S E (Rear Gunner)

Sgt Crooks body was washed ashore on 8 November 1943 at Oosterland, Wieringen, Holland and is buried at the Military cemetery, Helder. In 1947 it was recorded that the remaining missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

In the 1990’s wreckage of the aircraft was found in the Waddenzee and it is believed the aircraft was shot down by a German night fighter east of Texel Island, Holland.

366 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

417766 Flight Sergeant TUCKER, Lawrence Stanley

Source: AWM 235 (65) NAA : A705, 166/40/341 Micro Film No 463 OAFH, Commonwealth War Graves records. W R Chorley : RAF Losses of the Second World War, Page 74 Volume 1945.

Aircraft Type: Stirling Serial number: LK 279 Radio call sign: NF – L Unit: 138 SQN RAF Summary: Stirling LK279 of 138 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Tempsford, Sandy, Bedfordshire along with other aircraft of the Squadron at 2114 hours on the night of 9/10th February 1945, to carry out Operation Tablejam 190 and the formation set course for Denmark. Nothing was heard from Srirling LK279 after take off and it failed to return to base.

Crew: RAAF 417766 Flt Sgt Tucker, L S Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Toss, G O (Navigator) RAF FO Mercer, G E (Air Bomber) RAAF 424752 Flt Sgt French, R Y (Wireless Operator) RAF WO Bell, B J (Air Gunner) RAF Flt Sgt Carthew, W J (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Harrigan, W M (Flight Engineer)

The aircraft crashed in a blizzard over Gamborg Fiord east of Sonderskov and south of Faend Island. All of the crew were killed.

Flt Sgt French is buried in the Fredericia Northern Cemetery Churchyard, Denmark. Fredericia is a town on the east coast of Jutland, 88kms by rail east of Esbjerg and about 5kms from the road-rail bridge connecting Jutland with the island of Fyn.

Flt Sgt Carthew whose body was washed ashore from the Baltic on 5th June 1945 is buried in the Middlefart Sondre Cemetery, Denmark. Middlefart is at the north west corner of Fyn on the main railway from Copenhagen to Jutland, 240kms by rail from Copenhagen.

The other five crew members including Flt Sgt Tucker (RAAF) have no known grave and their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing,. Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

367 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

424479 Flight Sergeant TUDEHOPE, Reginald Joseph

Source: NAA : A705, 166/40/182

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: DJ 639 Radio call sign: Unit: 10 Radio School RAF

Summary: Anson DJ 639 of 10 Radio School RAF took off from Carew Cherington, at 1357 hours on a three hour W/T training flight over the Irish Sea. At 1500 hours a fix was obtained in position 52.10N, 0603W. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft and it failed to return to base.

An unconfirmed report from Eire authorities reported that an aircraft was seen to dive into the sea from 4000 feet at 1516 hours some four miles south east of Greenore Point and one mile north of Tusker Rock. The aircraft was a total loss and no parts were recovered. The body of one crew member AC2 Carr (RAF) was picked up by launch at 1530 hours.

Crew: RAF FO Johnson, R I (1st Pilot) RAAF 424479 Flt Sgt Tudehope (1st Pupil Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 424503 Flt Sgt Young, S J H (2nd Pupil Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF AC2 Carr, R R (Passenger)

It was later recorded that the three missing crew members had lost their lives at sea. Their names are recorded on the Memorial to the Missing Runnymede, UK. AC2 Carr is buried in the Morval (St Wenna) Church Cemetery, UK.

368 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

435057 Flight Sergeant TUNNOCK, Alan Bruce

Source: NAA : A705, 166/40/321

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: MP 792 Radio call sign: Unit: 78 Operational Trg RAF

Summary: Wellington MP 792 of No 78 OTU RAF took off from RAF Station Ein Shemer, Middle East Force, at approx 6pm on 8 January 1945 to carry out a non operational training exercise over the sea, and the aircraft failed to return to base.

Normal radio contact was kept with the aircraft for a time but after 6.35pm no further messages were received, and base could not regain contact. A little later information was received that an aircraft had crashed in the sea. A launch was despatched to carry out a search, and although some aircraft wreckage similar to the missing aircraft type was located, it could not be established if it came from the missing aircraft. Also no trace of the crew could be found.

It was believed that the aircraft came down in the sea approx 3 miles west of Jaffa, Palestine, and that the crew were lost at sea.

Crew: RAAF 10963 FO Williams, A H (Pilot) RAAF 428417 FO Fong, G (2nd Pilot) RAAF 433709 Flt Sgt Barnfield, C E H (Navigator Bombaimer) RAAF 435057 Flt Sgt Tunnock, A B (Wireless Operator/Air) RAAF 436254 Flt Sgt Robins, A A (Wireless Operator/Air) RAAF 430970 Flt Sgt Sandlant, N G (Wireless Operator/Air)

369 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400945 Flight Sergeant TURNER, Eric Claude

Source: NAA : A9301, Barcode 5549022

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 104 Sqn RAF

Summary: A Wellington aircraft of No 104 Sqn RAF based at Landing Ground 237 with a detachment at Luqa, Malta, was reported missing on air operations in the Middle East on 28 December 1942.

Crew: RAAF 400945 Flt Sgtt Turner, E C (Navigator Bombaimer) No other crew details are recorded on the above file.

370 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402474 Sergeant TWEEDIE, Norman

Source: NAA : A705, 163/169/54

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: R 1038 Radio call sign: Unit: 75 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington R 1038 of No 75 (New Zealand) Sqn RAF took off from RAF Fetwell, Thetford, Norfolk, at 2117 hours on the 11 September 1941, to carry out a mission against a target in North Germany. Apart from a 3rd class fix at 0101 hours on 12 September, which placed the aircraft north of the target but not far off track, nothing further was heard from R 1038 which failed to return to base.

Crew: RAF Sgt Roe, K Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Tomlinson, K A (2nd Pilot) RAF Sgt McVety, M W S (Observer) RAF Sgt Dunlop, D F (1st Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 402474 Sgt Tweedie, N (2nd Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RCAF Sgt Hopkins, T E (Air Gunner)

Following post war searches and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

371 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

411080 Flight Sergeant TWIGG, Gordon Edward

Source: NAA : A705, 163/169/131

Aircraft Type: Beaufighter Serial number: EL 360 Radio call sign: Unit: 248 Sqn RAF

Summary: Beaufighter EL 360 of 248 Sqn RAF flown by Flt Sgt Twigg, (RAAF) along with T 5197 and T 5278, were detailed on 1 December 1942 to search for Beaufighter JL 434 missing from an intercept patrol the previous day.

Nothing was heard from the three search aircraft after they took off at approx 8am in the morning from RAF Station Talbenny, Pembrokeshire, South Wales, and they failed to return to base.

Crew: RAAF 411080 Flt Sgt Twigg, G E (Pilot) RAF Sgt Brook, J (Navigator Wireless)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

372 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

411618 Flight Sergeant VAN-WANING, Kendall

Source: NAA : A705, 166/42/27

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: VI 711 Radio call sign: Unit: 608 Sqn RAF

Summary: Hudson VI 711 of No 608 (North Riding) Sqn RAF, British North African Force, was reported missing from an operational sortie on 12 July 1943. The aircraft failed to return to base at 0130 hours on 13 July 1943. No further news was received of aircraft or crew, which was assumed lost at sea.

Crew: RAAF 411303 FO Ellis, D W, Captain (Pilot) RCAF FO Belecky (Navigator) RAAF 411618 Flt Sgt Van Waning, K (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 408739 Flt Sgt Rubens, N A (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAF LAC Vaneta, H (Meteorologist)

373 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

406335 Sergeant VEAL, Colin Geoffrey

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/104/102, 163/120/384 Commonwealth War Graves records. W R Chorley: RAF Bomber Command Losses Operational Training Units, 1940-1947, Page 101, Volume 7.

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: X 9682 Radio call sign: Unit: 27 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington X9682 of No 27 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off from Valley Anglesey, Wales, at night on 25 February 1942, on a cross country training flight. The aircraft was last heard from in the vicinity of Squires Gate, Wales, at 1056 pm when an SOS message was received over the Irish Sea between Valley and Liverpool. The aircraft did not return to base, and subsequent air/sea rescue searches found no trace of the missing aircraft or crew.

Crew: RAAF 406351 Sgt Dyson, D H (Pilot) RAAF 406335 Sgt Veal, C G (2nd Pilot) RAAF 402302 Sgt Hargrave, A P R (Observer) RAAF 404598 Sgt Parsons, S J R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 407946 Sgt Madge, R C (Air Gunner) RNZAF Sgt Hawkins, R G (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK.

374 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

421059 Flight Sergeant VEALE, Neville James Ninnes

Source: NAA : A705, 166/42/40

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HZ 811 Radio call sign: Unit: 150 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HZ 811 of 150 Sqn RAF was one of a number of Squadron aircraft to attack barges and harbour installations at Leghorn, Italy. HZ 811 took off at 1845 hours on 24 September 1943. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. Leghorn is located on the North West coast of Italy.

Crew: RAAF 409340 FO Williams, E O S (Pilot) RAAF 410198 FO West, J D (Navigator) RAAF 415521 Flt Sgt Godfrey, R R (Navigator) RAAF 409566 Flt Sgt Meyer, D G (Navigator Acting Bombaimer) RAAF 421059 Flt Sgt Veale, N J N (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations when no trace of the missing aircraft or crew was located, it was recorded in 1948 that the crew had lost their lives at sea.

375 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

421140 Sergeant VEALE, Richard Samuel

Source: NAA : A705, 166/42/29

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HE 613 Radio call sign: Unit: 104 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HE 613 of 104 Sqn RAF took off from Hani West Landing Ground at night on 7 August 1943 to attack Cape Palami, Italy. The aircraft failed to return from this mission. Cape Palami is on the south west coast of Italy approx. 20 miles north east of Reggio.

Crew: RAAF 411943 Sgt Smith, D H Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Bristow, K F (2nd Pilot) RAAF 421140 Sgt Veale, R S (Navigator) RAAF 416554 Flt Sgt Ellis, R A (Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Holmes, F C (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Barriskill, W J (Air Gunner)

Following post war instructions and investigations, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

376 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404662 Flight Sergeant VINNICOMBE, Thomas Leslie

Source: NAA : A705, 163/175/101

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: Z 8568 Radio call sign: Unit: 104 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington Z 8568 of 104 Sqn RAF took off at 2308 hours on 24 July 1942 from Kabrit, Middle East to carry out night operations. On the 25 July the following signals were received from Z 8568 : 0238 hours “serious engine trouble may be forced to land” 0246 hours “Ht 1500 feet, course 105deg airspeed 100 mph”. 0308 hours “position 31.02 N 27.30 E”.

The operator then changed frequency to Burg-el-Arab H/F D/F who worked the aircraft until 0420 hours. By this time the aircraft should have reached Burg-el-Arab or the vicinity thereof, but the aircraft did not land. Searches the next day found no trace of the missing aircraft.

Sgt Stokes (RAF) a member of the crew who became a POW later stated “the aircraft crashed near Fuka Egypt. Four airmen were killed in the crash in the Western desert on 25 July. Sgt Eke (RAF) was still alive and badly injured on the 26th. Stokes set out to seek aid and was taken POW on 28 July. He told the Italians the whereabouts of the aircraft and of Sgt Eke, and had not heard anything further.”

Crew: RAF Sgt Milner, R A Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Eke, G L (2nd Pilot) RAF Sgt Porter, D C (Observer) RAAF 404662 Flt Sgt Vinnicombe, T L (1st Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 403874 Sgt Morey, M R (2nd Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Stokes, H M (Air Gunner)

Following post war searches and enquiries, when no trace of the five missing crew was found the case was closed.

377 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

412217 Sergeant WADDELL, Harold Theodore

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/57

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: W 4832 Radio call sign: Unit: 104 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster W 4832 took off from RAF Station Waddington at 1800 hours on 30/10/1943 to attack Lorient, France. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Skinner, D Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Hunter, J (Flight Engineer) RAAF 412217 Sgt Waddell, H T (Navigator) RAF Sgt Vincent, G T (Air Bomber) RAAF 403519 Sgt Knight, A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Howells, A (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Walton, F (Rear Gunner)

The body of Flt Sgt Skinner (RAF) was washed ashore on the French coast, 7 miles north west of Lorient on the south coast of Brittany Peninsula. He is buried in the Guidel Communal Cemetery. Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the remaining missing crew member had lost their lives at sea.

378 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

420086 Flight Sergeant WADDELL, Robert Reginald

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/341

Aircraft Type: Beaufighter Serial number: V 8187 Radio call sign: Unit: 255 Sqn RAF

Summary: Beaufighter V 8187 off 255 Sqn RAF Middle East, took off from RAF Blida on 27 August 1943 to carry out a calibration flight of the Palermo RDF Station, Sicily. The aircraft was attacked some 5 miles east of Scotella by two Spitfires of an American Squadron who mistook the Beaufighter for a German JU88. Hits were seen on V 8187, and Flt Noonan a member of 40 Sqn RAF and who was a passenger in V 8187, was seen slumped in the cockpit.

The pilot attempted to make for land and covered about 40 miles to shore when one engine caught fire and he attempted to ditch in the sea but crashed. An empty rubber dinghy was sighted, but no trace of the missing crew was found.

Crew: RAAF 420086 Flt Sgt Waddell, R R (Pilot) RAAF 409215 Flt Sgt Noonan, F A (Pilot – Pax)

379 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

28053 Sergeant WADE, James Christopher

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/74

Aircraft Type: Stirling Serial number: BF 450 Radio call sign: HA – X Unit: 218 Sqn RAF

Summary: Stirling BF 450 of 218 (Gold Coast) Sqn RAF, from RAF Station Downham Market, Norfolk, took off at 6.40pm on 25/2/1943 to bomb the Rheinau Power Station at Nurnberg, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Sgt White, RAAF 28053 Sgt Wade, J C (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Werner, RAF Sgt Stuart, RAF Sgt Hearn, RCAF Flt Sgt Mathews, RCAF Sgt Young,

Following post war investigations it was established that the aircraft was shot down by enemy aircraft and fell partly on the bank and in the river of the Rhine. Captured German documents revealed that Flt Sgt Mathews and Sgt Young were buried in Mannheim Cemetery. They were later re-interred in Bad Toelz (Durnbach) War Cemetery, Germany. The documents also revealed that Sgt Wade (RAAF) and Sgt Stuart were buried in Ludwigshafen Cemetery, but their graves could not be identified and they are recorded as having no known grave.

380 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

409259 Flight Sergeant WALKER, Donald Foster

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/137

Aircraft Type: Beaufighter Serial number: JL 818 Radio call sign: Unit: 235 Sqn RAF

Summary: Beaufighter JL 818 of 235 Sqn RAF in company with one other aircraft took off from RAF Leuchars, Scotland, at 11 am on 8 April 1943, to carry out a day time recce of the Norwegian coast. The two aircraft parted company on diverting tracks soon after take off, and nothing was seen or heard from JL 818 and if failed to return to base. The other aircraft completed its recce and landed.

Crew: RAAF 409259 Flt Sgt Walker, D F (Pilot) RAF PO Dowles, R O (Navigator Wireless)

In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

381 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

418486 Flight Sergeant WALKER, George Maxwell

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/137

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HZ 703 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HZ 703 of 8 Sqn RAF, British Forces Aden, took off at 10.30pm at night on 27 June 1944 on a convoy escort patrol. At 0205 hours on 28 June, SS Highland Prince reported that a twin engine aircraft had crashed in the sea, caught fire and exploded. The reported position was 12.20N, 44.03E. The ship and the Navy searched for two hours but no trace of any survivors was found. It was established that no other aircraft apart from HZ 703 was in the vicinity at the time.

Crew: RCAF FO Ferguson, G W (Captain (Pilot) RAF FO Davis, H H G ((2nd Pilot) RAF Flt Lt Moeseley, E F (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAAF 422296 Flt Sgt Reid, R A L (Wireless Operator Air) (ASVG) RAAF 418486 Flt Sgt Walker, G M (Wireless Operator Air) (ASVG) RAAF 425551 Flt Sgt Ryalls, C D (Wireless Operator Air) (ASVG)

It was later concluded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

382 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400072 Sergeant WALLER, Harold Gough

Source: NAA : A705, 163/176/146

Aircraft Type: Maryland Serial number: AH 361 Radio call sign: Unit: 39 Sqn RAF

Summary: Maryland AH 361 of 39 Sqn RAF took off from Fuka satellite (Malta), at 0558 hours on 22 August 1941 on a recce over the Tobruk-Bardia road area and landing grounds. The aircraft did not return to base after this mission. It was originally reported that the aircraft was missing believed to have forced landed, but there was no definite evidence to confirm this, and it was considered that its loss was due to enemy action.

Crew: RAAF 402102 Sgt C.K.Berriman, Pilot. RAAF 400072 Sgt H.G.Waller, Observer. RAF Sgt G.M.Halstead, Wireless operator/Air Gunner. RAF Sgt Crothers, Gunner.

Following post war enquiries and investigations it was recorded in 1948 that the crew had lost their lives at sea.

383 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403100 Sergeant WARREN, Frederick Ernest Sydney

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/176/250 1633/98/469 Commonwealth War Graves records

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: L 1125 Radio call sign: Unit: 2 (C) Op Training RAF

Summary: Blenheim L 1125 of No 2 Conversion Operational Training Unit RAF carrying out an operational training flight on 4 April 1942, collided in mid-air with another aircraft at 1930 hours during formation flying. The accident occurred 1 mile north of Skipsea, in the County of Yorkshire (later rezoned into the County of Humberside). L1125 crashed on the shore, and L 6795 the other aircraft crashed approx 500 yards out to sea.

Crew: RAF Sgt G A Edmonds Captain (Pilot) RAF PO Mair, J D (Observer) RAF Sgt Eart RAAF 404855 Sgt V G H Copas, (Wireless Air Gunner) RAAF 403100 Sgt Warren, F E S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RCAF Sgt W T Braun (

Sgt Copas (RAAF) is interred in the Brandesburton (St Mary’s) Church Yard Yorkshire. It was recorded in 1949 that Sgt Warren (RAAF) and Sgt Braun (RCAF) had lost their lives at sea, and they have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK. PO Mair was cremated in the Hull Crematorium, UK.

384 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404899 Sergeant WARREN, Ralph Ernest

Source: NAA : A705, 163/176/273

Aircraft Type: Manchester Serial number: L 7418 Radio call sign: Unit: 106 Sqn RAF

Summary: Manchester L &418 of 106 Sqn RAF took off at 1455 hours on 19 May 1942 on a day cross country exercise. The last message received from the aircraft was at 1703 hours asking if there were any instructions. They did not appear in any difficulty. At the time the estimated position was off Land’s End, Cornwall.The aircraft failed to return to base, and after it became overdue the air sea rescue was informed. The route was Base – Aberystwyth – Lands End – Hurn - Base

Crew: RAF Sgt McHardy, A J Captain (Pilot) RCAF Sgt Post, R A (2nd Pilot) RAAF 404899 Sgt Warren, R E (Navigator Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Chapman, F (Wireless Operator) RAF Sgt Gill, G K (Air Gunner)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

385 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

427175 Flight Sergeant WASHBOURNE, Gordon

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/707

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: HK 548 Radio call sign: KO – W Unit: 115 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster HK 548 of 115 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Witchford on the night of 7/8th June 1944 to carry out an attack against Massy Paliseau, Chevreusse, France. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew : RAAF 42207 PO Law E A Captain (Pilot) RAAF 427175 Flt Sgt Washbourne, G (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAAF 427540 Flt Sgt Nurse, J R RAF Sgt Parkinson RAF Sgt Newton RAF Sgt Russell RAF Sgt Murphy

PO Law, Flt Sgt Nurse (RAAF) and Sgts Parkinson, Russell and Murphy (RAF) became POW’s In a statement Flt Sgt Nurse said “ the aircraft was attacked by two fighters when commencing the run into the target. The port engine caught fire but was extinguished. The starboard inner engine was also hit and a fire started in the starboard wing. Efforts to extinguish were ineffective. The abandon order was given. I baled out at 6000 feet. I later made contact with PO Law and he informed me that Sgt Parkinson Sgt Russell and Flt Sgt Washbourne had baled out.” PO Law later stated that all the crew had baled out.

German documents recorded that Flt Sgt Washbourne had been shot as he tried to escape capture on 8 June 1944. No trace of his grave has been found and his name is commemorated on the Runnymede Missing Memorial UK. Sgt Newton (RAF) is buried in the Massy Communal Cemetery, 10 miles south of Paris.

386 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

420327 Flight Sergeant WATKINS, Marcel Alfred Barnard

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/43/159 Commonwealth War Graves records. W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses of the Second World War, Page 120, Volume 1943.

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: ED 709 Radio call sign: HW – S Unit: ATTD 100 SQN RAF

Summary: Lancaster ED 709 of 100 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Grimsby, Lincolnshire, at 2159 hours on 20 April, 1943 to attack Stettin, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Wg Cdr Swain, J G W Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Carter, T (Flight Engineer) RAAF 411043 Flt Lt Myers, B F (Navigator Bombaimer) RAF PO Wellard, (Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Sidwell, R S (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 420327 Flt Sgt Watkins, M A B (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Whellhams, R A (Rear Gunner)

Post war it was established that after the attack on the target, the aircraft was hit by ack- ack fire and crashed in Ringkobing Bay about one mile from Velling, Denmark. Two bodies were washed ashore and one was recovered from the sea. Both Flt Lt Myers and PO Wellard are buried in Lemvig Vester Cemetery and Wg Cdr Swain is buried in Esbjerg (Fourfelt) Cemetery. The remaining four missing crewmen including Flt Sgt Watkins have no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

387 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

425560 Flight Sergeant WATSON, Leroy Anwyll

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/524

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: JA 713 Radio call sign: MG – V Unit: 7 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster JA &13 of 7 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Oakington, Cambridge, at 2012 hours on 3 September 1943 to attack Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF FO Crockford, A Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Robinson, E RAF Sgt Vardy, G RAF Sgt Barnsley, P RAF Sgt Easton, H A RAAF 425560 Flt Sgt Watson, L A (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Wood, W C

It was later established that the aircraft was shot down by a night fighter and crashed at 0230 hours in the sea south of the Danish island of Tuno. FO Crockford and Sgt Robinson are buried in the Asrhus West Cemetery, Denmark, and Sgt Barnsley interred in the Fourfeldt Gravland, Esbjerg. The remaining four missing crew members including Flt Sgt Watson were recorded as having lost their lives at sea.

388 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

412327 Warrant Officer WATSON, Wallace Arthur

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/453

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: JA 853 Radio call sign: MG – L Unit: ATTD 7 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster JA 853 of 7 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Oakington, Cambridge, at 1624 hours on 16 December 1943 to bomb Berlin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 412327 WO Watson, W A Captain (Pilot) RAAF 415061 Flt Sgt Waterman, W M (Navigator) RAAF 412270 Flt Sgt Robinson, G N (Air Bomber) RAAF 408306 Flt Sgt Butterworth, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Hurst, J (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 414876 Sgt McWha, R D (Rear Gunner) RAF Flt Sgt Hedges, R E (Flight Engineer)

Captured German documents and post war investigations in the Follega area (Holland) and at Lemmar Cemetery, established that JA 853 exploded in mid air and crashed at Follega, which one and a half miles north of Lemmar on the north coast of Zuider Zee, Holland. Five bodies were recovered by the Germans who identified those of Flt Sgt Waterman (RAAF), Flt Sgt Robinson (RAAF) and Flt Sgt Hedges (RAF) with two being unidentified. The 5 were interred by the Germans in Lemmar cemetery.

Exhumation later identified the two unidentified as Sgt McWha (RAAF) and Sgt Hurst (RAF), and they were reinterred in the Lemmar cemetery.

In 1948 it was recorded that the two missing crew members WO Watson (RAAF) and Flt Sgt Butterworth (RAAF) had no known grave.

389 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402425 Flight Sergeant WATTS, David Maitland

Source: NAA : A705, 163/176/187

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: AD 629 Radio call sign: Unit: 108 Sqn RAF.

Summary: Wellington AD 629 of 108 Sqn RAF took off at 1946 hours on 12 August 1942 to carry out an operational sortie against Tobruk. Nothing further was heard of the aircraft or crew after take off.

Crew: RAAF 402425 Flt Sgt Watts, D M Captain (Pilot) RAAF 402864 FO Gengos, W (2nd Pilot) PO Harris, R (Navigator) RAAF 400354 Sgt Opas, A L (Wireless Operator) RAAF 402596 Sgt Hart, M. (Front Gunner) RAF Sgt Taylor, J W (Rear Gunner)

In 1948 it was recorded that all the crew lost their lives and have no known grave.

390 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

401176 Warrant Officer WEBB, Gordon Russell

Source: NAA 166/43/155

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HZ 146 Radio call sign: Unit: 40 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HZ 146 of 40 Sqn RAF, Middle East, took off at 1746 hours on the night of 19th/20th April 1943, to attack Landing Grounds at Soliman South. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it failed to return to base in the morning. Other aircraft on the mission reported seeing two aircraft shot down in flames at 2055 and 2105 hours.

Crew: RAAF 401176 W O G.R.Webb, Captain (Pilot). RAF Sgt M.F.McKeon, Pilot. RAAF 409157 Sgt H.W.E.Liley, Air Bomber. RAF Sgt A.G.Quick, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAF Sgt I.W.Sanderson, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAAF 408232 Flt Sgt L.N.Bain, Air Gunner.

In 1943 the Germans and the Italian Red Cross confirmed that Sgt Webb and Flt Sgt Bain had been killed on 19 April 1943, but no burial details were given.

Sgt Liley and Sgt Quick became POW’s, and in a later statement by Sgt Liley he reported “the aircraft was shot down on 19 April 1943 and he baled out. He believes that Sgt Bain and one other were killed when the aircraft crashed 20 miles east of Tunis, but that he had no definite confirmation that Bain was killed.”

In 1947 following post war enquiries and investigations it was recorded that the graves of Sgt Webb and Flt Sgt Bain could not be located.

391 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

410579 Flight Sergeant WEBB, Kenneth Wilfred

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/605

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: BZ 913 Radio call sign: Unit: 547 Sqn RAF

Summary: Liberator BZ 913 of 547 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station St Eval, Wadebridge, Cornwall, at 0602 hours on 12 April 1944 on an anti-sub patrol in the Bay of Biscay. The aircraft failed to return to base.

Crew: RAAF 421867 Flt Sgt E.G.Swanbury, Pilot. RAAF 410579 Flt Sgt K.W.Webb, Navigator Bombaimer RAAF 417634 Flt Sgt M.R.Goldney, Navigator Bombaimer. RAAF 421846 Flt Sgt K.R.Foster, Wireless Operator Air. RAAF 422141 Flt Sgt E.Daniels, Wireless Operator Air. RAF Flt Sgt Sutton. RAF Sgt Wood. RAF Sgt Crosbie. RAF FO Ryer.

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

392 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

432605 Flight Sergeant WEBBER, Athol Grant

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/820

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: HK 556 Radio call sign: A4 – F Unit: 115 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster HK 556 of 115 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Witchford at 2019 hours on the night of 26/27 August 1944 to attack Kiel, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RNZAF FO Holder, D F Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Hartley, (Navigator) RAF Flt Sgt Swannell, J N (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Clatworth, (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Pearson (Flight Engineer) RAAF 434791 Flt Sgt Jackson, A S (Air Gunner) RAAF 432605 Flt Sgt Webber, A G (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had no known grave.

393 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

425084 Flight Sergeant WEBSTER, Francis Llewellyn

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/555

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: HX 225 Radio call sign: Unit: 58 Sqn RAF

Summary: Halifax HX 225 of 58 Sqn RAF from RAF Station St Davids, Pembrokeshire, took off from RAF Brawly at 1755 hours on 11 March 1944 to carry out an anti sub patrol in the Bay of Biscay. At 0117 hours on 12 March a signal was received from the aircraft which broke off before completion. Nothing further was heard from HX 225 and it failed to return to base. It was believed that the aircraft was attacking and was shot down by a U boat.

Crew: RAF FO Hayward, L A Captain (Pilot) RAF FO Rice, W J (2nd Pilot) RCAF WO McCormick, R J (Navigator) RAF Sgt Potter, R A (Flight Engineer) RAF FO Wilson, J (1st Wireless Operator Air) RAAF 425084 Flt Sgt Webster, F L (2nd Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Parkes, S T (3rd Wireless Operator Air) RAF WO Bonar, R J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

394 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

426418 Warrant Officer WEBSTER, Ralph

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/1087

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HZ 644 Radio call sign: Unit: 524 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HZ 644 of No 524 Sqn RAF, took off from RAF Station Langham at 1546 hours of 13 January 1945 to carry out an armed recce against enemy shipping off the Frisian Islands. The patrol was to commence at 5400N 0700E and after covering an area up to 5350N 0815E to follow the inner convoy route to Borkum, and from thence to make for base due at 1946 hours. No messages were received from the aircraft which did not return to base. No reports were received from later aircraft on similar mission other than heavy flak from Nordernay to Borkum. Beaufighters and a Warwick aircraft made searches during daylight, but no trace of the aircraft or crew were found. It was assumed that the crew were lost at sea. The crew were on their 29th mission when they failed to return.

Crew: RAF Flt Lt MacGregor, R H, DFC, Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Sarsons, G A (2nd Pilot) RAAF 420468 PO Ham, G W, DFC (Navigator) RAAF 426418 WO Webster, R (Wireless Operator/Air) RAAF 426552 WO Datson, E J (Wireless Operator/Air) RAF Sgt Sayers, D J H (Wireless Operator/Air) RAF WO Kirtley, D (Wireless Operator/Air)

395 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

35027 Flight Sergeant WEDD, Clifton Warwick Frank

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/1293

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: NG 222 Radio call sign: Unit: 1654 Heavy Conversion RAF

Summary: Lancaster NG 222 of 1654 Heavy Conversion Unit RAF, took off from RAF Station Wigsley at 1125am on 12 April 1945, on a cross country training flight in England, finishing up with an air sea firing exercise over the Wash off the east coast of England.

At 2.15pm a message was received from the aircraft requesting a weather report, which was cloudy with slight haze, visibility 4 miles. The report was acknowledged at 2.15pm. There was no further contact however with the aircraft which failed to reply to a signal from base sent at 3.40pm for a report on its position and an ETA.

Searches were subsequently made and the body of Flt Sgt Darby (RAF) was recovered from the sea at Northclates, near Grimsby, Lincoln. There was however no trace found of the missing aircraft or remaining crew members.

Crew: RAAF 35027 Flt Sgt Wedd, C W Captain (Pilot) RAAF 428057 FO Smith, B P (Observer) RAAF 124764 FO Rolston, A G (Bombaimer) RAAF 432885 Flt Sgt Sharp, J W (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Flt Sgt Baker RAF Sgt Chapman RAF Sgt Hope RAF Flt Sgt Darby RAF Flt Sgt Hardman

It was later recorded that the eight missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

396 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

15851 Flight Sergeant WEIR, William David

Source: NAA : A705/166/43/229

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: BJ 672 Radio call sign: Unit: 27 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington BJ 672 of No 27 Operational Training Unit RAF took off from RAF Station Lichfield, Staffordshire, at 1136 am on a non operational flight over the North Sea on 14 June 1943. Communications were received from the aircraft at 1141am and 1224pm when the aircraft was near Boston, Lincolnshire on the outward journey. No other messages were received and BJ 672 failed to return to base.

Crew: RAAF 15851 Flt Sgt W.D.Weir, Pilot RAAF 412024 Sgt V.C.Mcquade, Observer. RAAF 413373 Flt Sgt G.H.Gray, Observer. RAAF 410327 Sgt R.McL.Grieve, Wireless Operator Air Gunner. RAAF 421602 Sgt J.S.Lee, Air Gunner.

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

397 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400763 Sergeant WELCH, Arnold Gregory

Source: NAA : A705, 163/177/272

Aircraft Type: Manchester Serial number: L 7429 Radio call sign: EA - Unit: 49 Sqn RAF

Summary: Manchester L 7429 of 49 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Scampton at 2300 hours on 30 May 1942 to attack Cologne, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Carter, Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Ash, M S RAAF 400763 Sgt Welch, A G (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Ramsey, L J RAF Sgt Yeates, L J RAF Sgt Haynes, G C RAF Sgt Block, D

Post war enquiries and investigations established from German sources that the aircraft crashed on the island of Ouddorp, Holland, but no bodies were recovered. It was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

398 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405370 Flight Sergeant WELLESLEY, Charles John Jay

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/68

Aircraft Type: Stirling Serial number: BF 378 Radio call sign: LS – T Unit: 15 Sqn RAF

Summary: Stirling BF 378 of 15 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Bourn, Cambridgeshire, at 1755 hours on 19 February 1943 to bomb Wilhelmshaven, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RNZAF FO Crawford, B V Captain (Pilot) RCAF FO Long, C R (Navigator) RAF PO Howson, P T (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Keeble, K S (1st Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 405370 Flt Sgt Wellesley, C J J (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 406769 Sgt Borrett, A H (Rear Gunner) RAF Sgt Macklin, W H (Flight Engineer)

The bodies of FO Long (RCAF) and Sgt Borrett were washed ashore on the island of Texel off the coast of Holland. Sgt Borret is buried at Schiermonnikoog (Vredenhof) Cemetery. The small island of Schiermonnikoog is the most northerly of the Frisian Islands lying about 11kms north of the Dutch mainland. Sgt Wellesley has no known grace and his name is commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

399 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

427274 Flight Sergeant WEST, Ian Albert

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/1139

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: PB 570 Radio call sign: Unit: 1669 Conversion Royal Air Force 72

Summary: Lancaster PB 570 of No 1669 Conversion Unit RAF, took off from RAF Langar, near Barnstone, Nottingham, to carry out a night cross country operational training flight. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. The route was Base – Basenstoke – Barnstaple – Bude – St Marys – Bardsey – Aberystwyth – Northhampton – Base.

Crew: RAAF 427274 Flt Sgt West, I A Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Holmes, R (Navigator) RAF Sgt Drawbridge, H W N (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Tannen, L M (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Clapton, G F A (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Voller, P H (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Kerling, E D (Rear Gunner)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

400 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

417917 Flight Sergeant WESTERN, Malcolm George

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/454 Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: DV 382 Radio call sign: UL - G2 Unit: 576 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster DV 382 of 576 Sqn RAF was detailed to operate against Berlin on the night of 16/17 December 1943. The aircraft left RAF Station Elsham Wolds, Barnetby, Lincolnshire, UK, at the appointed time, but nothing further was heard of the aircraft or crew.

In 1947, a report from No 4 MREU, RAF (Germany) established that the aircraft crashed in the vicinity of Berlin-Lichtenberg, Map Ref N53 Z9253. Investigations were carried out in the Berlin area and at Doeberitz-Elsgrund cemetery, about 10 miles west of Berlin. Despite exhaustive searches and interrogations of local authority, it was not possible to obtain any information of actual location of crash.

Exhumations at the Doeberitz-Elsgrund cemetery located 2 members of the crew buried there viz Chapman & Russom (both RAF members), but it could not be established whether the remainder of the crew were buried there.

Crew: RAF FO McAra, R S, Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Barrett, J L (Flight Engineer) RAAF 422388 FO Blackmore, G L (Navigator) RAF Flt Sgt Chapman, C (Air Bomber. Body interred) RAF Sgt Russom, E (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. Body interred) RAAF 417917 Flt Sgt Western, M G (Air Gunner) RAAF 417837 Flt Sgt Harris, A A (Air Gunner)

401 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400245 Sergeant WESTON, Neville Jack

Source: NAA : A705, 163/177/169

Aircraft Type: Manchester Serial number: LZ 466 Radio call sign: OF – N Unit: 97 Sqn RAF

Summary: Manchester LZ 466 of No 97 (Straits Settlements) Sqn RAF, took off from RAF Station Coningsby, Lincolnshire, at 1320 hours on 8 November 1941 to carry out air sea rescue work in the North Sea searching for crews reported missing from the previous nights operations. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Fl Lt Price, C P D DFC Captain (Pilot) RAF PO Bickering, G H J (2nd Pilot) RAAF 400245 Sgt Weston, N J (Observer) RAF Flt Sgt Stanley, C DFM (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Dexter, A R A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Manners, F W (Air Gunner) RCAF Sgt Bronson, C R (Air Gunner)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

402 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400575 Sergeant WHEELER, Frederick Walter

Source: NAA : A705, 163/177/187

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: E 7628 Radio call sign: Unit: 72 Op Trg RAF

Summary: Blenheim E 7628 of No 72 Operational Training Unit RAF took off at 2115 hours on 17 December 1941 on a cross country training flight in the Red Sea Hills area in the Middle East. Messages were received from the aircraft at 2149, 2201 and 2235 hours, but the aircraft ceased to transmit after that and failed to return to base.

The cross country flight was from Wadi Gazouza to Sollum Junction to Ras Asis and back to Wadi Gazouza.

Crew: RAF Sgt Freeman, C (Pilot) RCAF PO Smith (Observer) RAF Sgt Hussey, P P (Observer) RAAF 400575 Sgt Wheeler, F W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Armour, W (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded that the missing crew had no known grave.

403 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400684 Sergeant WHEELER, William Robert

Source: NAA : A705, 163/177/222

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: 3872 Radio call sign: Unit: 11 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blemheim 3872 of 11 Sqn RAF was missing on 19 February 1942, from an operational flight to Landing Ground 121 in Sidi Barrani area, Egypt. The aircraft took off from Bade at 1130 hours on 19 February.

The wreck of the aircraft was found on 31 March 1942, 68 miles west of Mersa Matruh, 1.5 miles north of the railway in the Sidi Barrani area. The identities of the missing crew were established and the remains of the crew were buried.

Crew: RAAF 407594 Sgt Small, J T (Pilot) RAAF 404025 Sgt Clements, H A (Observer) RAAF 400684 Sgt Wheeler, W R (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war searches and investigations when no trace of the graves were found, it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had no known grave.

404 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

422822 Flight Sergeant WHITBY, John Downton

Source: NAA : A9301, Barcode 5535350 No RAAF Casualty file is held by Archives. But see NAA : A705, 166/18/372 Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: BZ 915 Radio call sign: Unit: 224 Sqn RAF

Summary: Liberator BZ 915 of 224 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station St.Eval, Cornwall, in the early hours of 7 June 1944. The aircraft was detailed to patrol the coast of Ushant, France but failed to return to base. The last signal received from the aircraft at 0207 hours stated that they were attacking the enemy, the position of the aircraft then was off the French coast near Ushant. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft.

Crew: RAAF 414988 FO Buchan-Hepburn, R H, Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Fairs, G H J (2nd Pilot) RAAF 420386 PO Hogan, P W (Navigator Bombaimer) RAAF 422822 Flt Sgt Whitby, J D (Navigator) RAAF 422512 Flt Sgt Hands, B A (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 408388 Flt Sgt Dickenson, M E (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 422464 Flt Sgt Earl, H J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 418506 Flt Sgt Kennedy, A A (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAF Flt Sgt Barnes, L J (Wireless Operator Mechanic/Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Collins, A (Flight Engineer)

In a 1949 report it was stated that all efforts to find any trace of the aircraft or crew were unsuccessful, and the crew had been recorded as missing lost at sea.

405 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400377 Sergeant WHITE, Alfred Guthrie

Source: NAA : A705, 163/177/148

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: V 6222 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim V 6222 of 8 Sqn RAF on 25 September 1941 was engaged in the Western Desert area, Egypt, on an exercise which involved flying over the sea at about 500 feet and about 40 miles from land. About 0720Z hours the aircraft crashed into the sea about 40 miles due south of Aden. Subsequent air searches found petrol tanks and small pieces of wreckage which indicated that the aircraft crashed at high speed. No survivors were found.

Crew: RAAF 400377 Sgt White, A G (Pilot) RAF Sgt Stoddard, T E RAF Sgt Message, E V

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

406 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

410758 Warrant Officer WHITE, Frederick William

Source: NAA B: A705, 166/43/830

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: ED 327 Radio call sign: BH – R Unit: 300 Sqn Royal Air Force (Polish)

Summary: Lancaster ED 327 of 300 Sqn RAF (Polish) took off from RAF Faldingworth, Lincoln, at 2115 hours on 29 August 1944 to attack Stettin, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF PO Lupton, R Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Hamilton, J B (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Jewell,, K J (Navigator) RAF Sgt Baron, D K (Air Bomber) RAAF 410758 WO White, F W (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Flt Sgt Vaughan, I C (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Barnett, S S (Rear Gunner)

The body of Sgt Baron (RAF) was washed up on the west coast of Sweden, and is interred at Falkenberg, approx 19 miles north west of Halmstad in the province of Halland, Sweden. It was recorded in 1949 that the remaining six missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

407 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

401355 Sergeant WHITE, Nathaniel

Source: NAA : A705, 163/177/253

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: AM 782 Radio call sign: Unit: 59 Sqn RAF

Summary: Hudson AM 782 of 59 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station North Coates Lincolnshire, at 1220 hours on 21 April 1942 on a practice flight over the North Sea with other Squadron aircraft. At 1405 hours a message was received from one of the aircraft that it was being attacked by enemy aircraft. AM 782 failed to return to base and it was presumed that it had been shot down by the enemy aircraft.

Crew: RAF PO Boggon, M G (Pilot) RAAF 401355 Sgt White, N (Observer) RCAF PO St Ours, J A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Howell, J E (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sqn Ldr Thompson, J StJ (Passenger)

The bodies of PO Boggon and PO St Ours were washed ashore at Hemsby Gap, Norfolk England. No trace was found of the other three missing crew members and it was recorded that they had lost their lives at sea.

408 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

407631 Sergeant WHITING, Peter Robert Alfred Stewart

Source: NAA : A705, 163/177/334

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: R 5563 Radio call sign: Unit: 61 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster R 5563 of 61 Sqn RAF took off from St Eval drome, Cornwall, at 1128 hours on 19 August 1942 to carry out an anti sub patrol in the Bay of Biscay off the north coast of Spain. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RCAF Flt Sgt Shriner C P Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt McNeary, J (Flight Engineer) RAAF 407631 Sgt Whiting, P R A S (Observer) RCAF Flt Sgt Jackson, K R (Air Bomber) RAF Flt Sgt Monk, F J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Melville, G A (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Temple, E (Air Gunner)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

409 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404473 Warrant Officer WHYTE, Jack Barnard

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/200

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: BB 456 Radio call sign: Unit: 215 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington BB 456 of 215 Sqn RAF India, left base at 6pm on 17 May 1943 to carry out bombing operations on a target at 20.52N, 95.51E,in the vicinity of Meiktila, Burma. The aircraft failed to return from this mission. The crew of other aircraft on the same mission reported seeing what they thought was an aircraft hit by flak and crash.

Crew: RCAF Flt Lt Guest, J.A. Pilot. RCAF Flt Sgt J.W.Wilmore, Pilot. RAAF 404238 WO C.L.Edwards, Navigator. RAAF 404473 WO J.B.Whyte, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAAF 404541 WO A. Barnes, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAF Flt Sgt R.Cross, Air Gunner.

Following post war enquiries and investigations, the aircraft was discovered outside the village of Kyubobin. The headman indicated an open common grave. Villagers stated that they saw the plane approaching them unsteadily from the east of Meiktila near the airfield. They saw two descending by parachute, then the plane dived and hit a paddy field mound and exploded.

In 1950, six unidentified bodies were found at Kalaw, but there was no evidence to link the bodies with the above aircraft.

In 1954 it was recorded that after further searches the remains of the crew of BB 456 were unlocated.

410 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

408448 Flight Sergeant WILKEN, Charles Leslie

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/916

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: 42 – 110120 Radio call sign: Unit: 530 Sqn USAAF

Summary: On the night of 28 October 1944 Liberator 42-110120 of 530 Sqn, 380 Bomb Group USAAF, 5th Air Force, failed to return from a mission to Macassar, NEI. The aircraft took off from Darwin at 1751 hours, manned by a RAAF crew of eleven. The following sequence of messages was received by Ops room No 380 (B) Group: 281420Z No 3 out, Position 06.25S 120.50E course 120deg true. 281555Z 2 engines out, posn 0800S 123.35E. 281628Z Not likely to reach base. No 4 giving trouble. Preparing to ditch. Darwin obtained a bearing of 340deg at 281604Z. Search ships and 4 B24’s immediately began search, and B24’s, B25’s and Catalinas on subsequent days were unable to locate missing aircraft or crew.

Crew: RAAF 408190 FO Harrison, A L, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 413969 WO Davidson, S H (2nd Pilot) RAAF 416078 Flt Lt Cropley, A A (Navigator) RAAF 408590 FO O’Dea, D J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 416861 WO Killen, K L J (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 423587 Flt Sgt Barber, W R (Navigator/Bombaimer) RAAF 408448 Flt Sgt Wilken, C L (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 36474 Sgt Jamieson, S H (Armament/Gunner) RAAF 429432 Sgt Cook, J E (Air Gunner) RAAF 62526 Sgt Bird, W J (Fitter 11A/Gunner) RAAF 116993 LAC (Agt Flt Sgt) Anstey, F W (Flight Engineer) ARMY VX21828 Major Latrelle, H R, AIF, Intel. Officer (Observer)

In 1949 it was recorded that the aircraft and crew were lost at sea.

411 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

419430 Flight Sergeant WILKS, Geoffrey Talbot

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/631

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: ME 742 Radio call sign: PG – Q Unit: 619 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster ME 742 of 619 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Dunholme Lodge, Lincoln, at 2100 hours on 23 April 1944 to carry out a non operational night training flight. The training was a fighter and searchlight affiliation exercise. At about 2300 hours the aircraft was seen to be flying on track and illuminated by searchlight beams at 12/13000 feet. It was held for 2 to 3 minutes during which time it carried out defensive manoeuvres and then disappeared for about 10 seconds in cloud. As it reappeared there was an orange flash and the aircraft was heard to dive at high speed. The dive continued until it crashed into the sea some 2/3 miles off Hornsea on the Yorkshire coast.

Crew: RAF Sgt Broomfield, P Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Veal, F E W (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Kersley, D F A (Navigator) RAF Sgt Hunt, K W (Air Bomber) RAAF 419430 Flt Sgt Wilks, G T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Emsley, E G (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Tucker, F L (Rear Gunner)

The bodies of Sgt Veal and Sgt Emsley (RAF) were recovered. It was recorded that the remaining five missing crew members including Flt Sgt Wilks had lost their lives at sea.

412 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402427 Sergeant WILLIAMS, Alan Neal

Source: NAA : A705, 163/178/267

Aircraft Type: Whitley Serial number: Z 9305 Radio call sign: EY - Unit: 78 Sqn RAF

Summary: Whitley Z 9305 of 78 Sqn RAF was detailed for operations against Rotterdam on the night of 28 January 1942. The aircraft failed to return to base. It was reported that the aircraft was hit by ack-ack fire from trawlers off the Essex coast and crashed at 1905 hours into the sea near the Cork Lightship off Harwich.

Crew: RAAF 402427 Sgt Williams, A N Captain (Pilot) RCAF Sgt Campbell, RAF PO Williams, RAF Sgt Curnick RAF Sgt Dobson,

The body of Sgt Campbell (RCAF) was recovered by HMS Lorna Doone and buried at sea. It was recorded that he remaining missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

413 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404834 Sergeant WILLIAMS, Albert Soffi

Source: NAA : A705, 163/178/400

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Z 7847 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim Z 7847 of 8 Sqn RAF was detailed to carry out an convoy escort patrol on 4 September 1942, forty miles distant from its base in the Middle East. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. The weather conditions were good, but later aircraft on the same escort mission reported large areas of cloud with a base down to 100 feet.

Crew: RAAF 404834 Sgt Williams, A S (Pilot) RAAF 405060 Sgt McDowall, R G (Observer) RAAF 406299 Sgt Green, G F (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations it was recorded in 1948 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

414 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

421484 Warrant Officer WILLIAMS, Arthur Roland

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/1140

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: BZ 938 Radio call sign: Unit: 159 Sqn RAF

Summary: Liberator BZ 938 of 159 Sqn RAF on 31 January 1945 crashed near the village of Letpanbin Burma, whilst on a special signals flight mission in the areas of Yosange Isle, Rangoon River, Bassein, Ywangyaung, Meiktila, Ywathet, Moulmein, Bankok, Tavey and Diamond Isle.

Crew: RAF Sqn Ldr Bradley, J W Captain (Pilot) RAF Flt Sgt Bellingan, A (2nd Pilot) RAF FO Jeffrey, A G (Navigator) RAF FO Lowery, W J J (Wireless Operator) RAF Flt Sgt Woodage, J D (Wireless Operator) RAF Flt Sgt Woodbridge, S J (Wireless Operator) RAAF 421484 WO Williams, A R (Wireless operator Air) RAF Flt Sgt Snelling, R J (Flight Engineer) RAF Flt Sgt Adams, L (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, local witnesses advised that their were only six survivors from the crash. Sqn Ldr Bradley and FO Jeffrey (RAF) were POW’s and later released. Flt Sgt Bellingan, Flt Sgt Woodage, Flt Sgt Woodbridge and Flt Sgt Snelling (all RAF members) lost their lives whilst POW’s of the Japanese. The bodies of WO Williams (RAAF), FO Lowery (RAF) and Flt Sgt Adams (RAF) could not be found and they are recorded as having no known grave.

415 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405459 Sergeant WILLIAMS, Cecil Alfred

Source: NAA : A705: 163/178/391

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: R 1345 Radio call sign: Unit: 21 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington R 1345 of No 21 Operational Training Unit RAF took off at 2020 hours on 18 August 1942, on a night training flight. A third class fix was obtained by Sealand at 0031 hours which placed the aircraft about 18 miles west of the point where it should approx have been at the time. No other contact or messages were received from the aircraft and it failed to return to base. It was considered that the aircraft may have crashed into the Irish Sea.

Crew: RCAF Sgt Derrick, M R (Pilot) RAF Sgt Drake, N (2nd Pilot) RAF Sgt Pogrel, A (Observer) RAAF 405459 Sgt Williams, C A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF PO Castell, R A (Air Gunner)

416 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

419678 Flight Sergeant WILLIAMS, John Gray

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/734

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: FL 931 Radio call sign: Unit: 86 Sqn RAF

Summary: Liberator FL 931 of 86 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Tain, Ross-shire, Scotland, at 0255 hours on 26 June 1944 to carry out an anti-submarine patrol in the North Sea. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 411799 Fl Lt Moffitt, F D, Captain (Pilot) RAAF 434069 FO Whitby, S W (2nd Pilot) RAF FO Pearson, H (1st Navigator) RAAF 427942 Sgt Richardson, K I (2nd Navigator) RAAF 424197 Sgt Mason, L O H (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAAF 419678 Sgt Williams, J G (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAF Flt Sgt O’Bierne (Wireless Operator/Air) RAF Sgt Leighton, G G (Wireless Operator Mechanic/Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Moffitt, I T (Flight Engineer)

With no trace of the missing aircraft or crew being found from post war investigations and enquiries, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew were lost at sea.

417 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403246 Sergeant WILLIAMS, Leonard Stanley

Source: NAA : A705, 163/178/378

Aircraft Type: Whitley Serial number: Z 9525 Radio call sign: Unit: 58 Sqn RAF

Summary: Whitley Z 9525 of 58 Sqn RAF of RAF Station St Eval, near Wadebridge, Cornwall, took off from the detachment at Wick, Scotland, at 1215 hours on 6 August 1942 to carry out a “Flora” anti sub patrol. The aircraft was due back at 2230 hours, but it failed to return to base.

Crew: RCAF Flt Sgt Strutt, G D DFM Captain (Pilot) RAAF 403246 Sgt Williams, L S (2nd Pilot) RAF Sgt Morgan, G A (Observer) RAF Sgt Prior, E T (1st Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Griffiths, E W (2nd Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Hooper, A (3rd Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

418 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

414531 Flight Sergeant WILLIAMS, Walter Vincent

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/255

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HE 707 Radio call sign: Unit: 40 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HE 707 of 40 Sqn RAF was detailed on the night of the 8 July 1943 along with other squadron aircraft to attack Catania drome Sicily. At 2320 hours one aircraft in the Catania area while over the sea was seen to explode. At 2327 hours a second aircraft was seen to explode in mid air and fall in flames following air to air firing. No parachutes were seen to bale out from either aircraft.

As both HE 707 and HZ 144 failed to return from the mission it could not be determined as to which aircraft the above explosions applied.

Crew: RAF Sgt Hart, S H L Captain (Pilot) RAAF 414531 Flt Sgt Williams, W V (Navigator Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Howatson, J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Dryden, G S (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Sharpe, H H (Air Gunner)

It was recorded in 1947 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

419 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

403087 Flight Sergeant WILLIAMS, William Bedlington Knox

Source: NAA : A9301 Barcode 5533851

Aircraft Type: Spitfire Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: ATTD 1435 Sqn RAF

Summary: A Spitfire of No 1435 Sqn RAF based at Luqa, Malta, was reported missing from air operations on 14 October 1942.

Crew: RAAF 403087 Flt Sgt Williams, W B K (Pilot)

420 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

406543 Sergeant WILLIS, Roy Allen

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/255

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: FH 378 Radio call sign: Unit: 48 Sqn RAF

Summary: Hudson FH 378 of 48 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Wick, Caithness, Scotland, at 1150 hours on 15 July 1942 to carry out a “Trost” patrol. The ETA bask at base was 1810 hours, but nothing was heard from the aircraft and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Sqn Ldr Petersen, V A Captain (Pilot) RCAF Sgt Dogue, G (Navigator) RAAF 406531 Sgt Langoulant, T B (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 406543 Sgt Willis, T A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was established that the remains of Sqn Ldr Petersen was recovered from the sea in the vicinity of the Island of Froya, and interred in the Stavne Cemetery, Trondhiem, Norway. Froya is a small island off the coast approx 104 miles of Bergen, Norway. It was recorded in 1948 that the other missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

421 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402898 Sergeant WILLS, Thomas Colin

Source: NAA : A705, 163/178/284

Aircraft Type: Hudson Serial number: T 9333 Radio call sign: Unit: 60 Op Training RAF

Summary: Hudson T 9333 of No 60 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off at 8.4pm on 8 March 1942, on a night training exercise over the sea, from which the aircraft failed to return. Although an unknown aircraft was heard over the W/T, this was not however identified with T 9333.

Crew: RAAF 402898 Sgt T.C.Wills, Pilot. RAF Sgt I.S.Woolf, Navigator. RAAF 403473 Sgt D.M.Hall,, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. RAAF 403441 Sgt P.C.Bucknell, Air Gunner.

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

422 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

432927 Warrant Officer WILMITH, Jack Edmund

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/1554

Aircraft Type: Liberator Serial number: KL 671 Radio call sign: Unit: 159 Sqn RAF

Summary: Liberator KL 671 of 159 Sqn RAF Far East Command, was detailed on 3 August 1945 for special duties in the Toungoo area north east of Rangoon. The aircraft took off at 0820 hours and was due over the drop zone at 1200 hours and then return at 1630 hours. The aircraft failed to return to base from the mission.

The wreck of the aircraft was subsequently located on the west bank of the Irrawady River near Bigaing at 19.47 N, 95.04 E. Six bodies were found, but they could not be identified and were buried at the scene of the crash. The aircraft appears to have broken up in flight.

Crew: RNZAF WO Gallagher, D J Captain (Pilot) RAAF 432927 WO Wilmith, J E (2nd Pilot) RNZAF FO Finlayson, D C (Navigator) RAF Flt Sgt Taylor, V G (Bomb Aimer) RAF Flt Sgt Jobson, J (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Hughes, E F (Flight Engineer) RNZAF WO McCarthy, C W (Nose Gunner) RAF Flt Sgt Alexander, S (Tail Gunner)

423 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405103 Sergeant WILSON, James Leslie

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/129 also 163/178/371

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HF 844 Radio call sign: Unit: 108 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HF 844 of 108 Sqn RAF took off at 1750 hours on 25 July 1942 from Advanced Base IG 86. It later took off froman Advanced Landing Ground at 2152 hours to carry out a night raid on Heraklion, an island to the south east of Greece. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. The opposition encountered at Heraklion was fairly severe.

Certain lights were reported by other aircraft as being green verey lights fired up from the sea in a position 100 miles from the Egyptian coast and on track. It was considered unlikely that it would be from a crew in a dinghy. ASR searches failed to find any trace of the missing aircraft or crew.

Crew: RAF PO Clement, O H Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Smith, D (2nd Pilot) RAF PO Russell, H M (Navigator) RAAF 405103 Sgt Wilson, J L (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 403873 Sgt McPherson, C C (Front Gunner) RAF Sgt Condron, R G (Rear Gunner)

424 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400130 Sergeant WILSON, Norman Paterson McKirdy

Source: NAA : A9301, Barcode 5549057

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 14 Sqn RAF

Summary: A Blenheim aircraft of No 14 Sqn RAF based at Landing Ground 21, Egypt, was reported missing on a mission to Crete on 26 May 1941.

Crew: RAAF 400130 Sgt Wilson, N P McK (Wireless Operator Air Gunner). No details are available on the above file re other crew members.

425 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405008 Sergeant WILSON, Ralph Alexander

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 163/178/369 Commonwealth War Graves records.

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: R 5619 Radio call sign: OL – S Unit: 83 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster R 5619 of 83 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Scampton, Lincoln, at 0032 hours on the 26 July, 1942 to bomb Duisberg, Germany. The route was via Skegness, Leiden, Corinchen, Duisberg. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF PO Whitehead, H H DFM Captain (Pilot) RAAF 405008 Sgt Wilson, R A (2nd Pilot) RCAF FO Barber, H B (Navigator) RAF Flt Sgt Corfield, J W DFM (1st Wireless Operator) RAF Sgt Rudge, E A (2nd Wireless Operator) RAF Sgt McCarton, J (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Brash, R H (Rear Gunner)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had no known grave. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, Surrey, UK.

426 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400265 Sergeant WILSON, Robert Houston

Source: NAA : A705, 163/178/215

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Z 7683 Radio call sign: Unit: 55 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim Z 7683 of 55 Sqn RAF took off at 1655 hours on 29 October 1941 to carry out a high level night attack on dumps in the Timini area, Libya. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: SAAF Lt Blair, D H (Pilot) RAAF 402121 Sgt Hoad, B P (Observer) RAAF 400265 Sgt Wilson, R H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

In 1948 it was recorded that the missing crew had no known grave.

427 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

402081 Sergeant WILSON, Stanley Maurice

Source: NAA : A705, 163/178/248

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: L 9615 Radio call sign: MP – X Unit: 76 Sqn RAF

Summary: Halifax L 9615 of 76 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Middleton St George, near Barlington Hampshire at 1122 hours on 30 December 1941 to attack the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau at Brest, France. The aircraft was last seen after attacking the target 20 miles from the French coast with smoke coming from the starboard outer and loosing height rapidly.

Crew: RCAF PO King, D S Captain (Pilot) RCAF Sgt Gates, W W (2nd Pilot) RAAF 402081 Sgt Wilson, S M (Observer) RAF Sgt Blair L (1st Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Tosk, H J (2nd Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Randall, F G (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Eaton, F J (Rear Gunner)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

428 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

412789 Flight Sergeant WILTSHIRE, Alfred Charles

Source: NAA : A705, 166/43/283

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HK 629 Radio call sign: Unit: 142 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HK 629 of 142 Sqn RAF, British North African Forces, took off from RAF Kairouan at 2005 hours on 5 August 1943 to attack the Messina beaches. The route was from Base – Ustica – Vulcano Island – Target – and return the same route. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 412789 Flt Sgt Wiltshire, A C Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Howard, R R E (Navigator Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Perkins, M T (Bombaimer) RAF Sgt StClaire, A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 410471 Flt Sgt Eaton, R L (Air Gunner)

429 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

411569 Leading Aircraftman WITTS, John

Source: NAA : A705, 163/178/255

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: Radio call sign: Unit: 1 (RCAF) Air Observers School

Summary: An Anson of No 1 RCAF Air Observers School departed St John’s Quebec at 1800 hours on 8 January 1942, on a routine night training flight to Malton a distance of 323 miles, and then return. The aircraft reported from Montreal as setting course for Malton but it failed to reach its destination.

Crew: Mr Rutherdord, C B (Staff Pilot Civilian) RAAF 411569 LAC Witts, J (Trainee Air Observer) RAAF 403769 LAC Sutton, B B (Trainee Air Observer) RCAF LAC Morgan, A M (Trainee)

In subsequent searches an aircraft fuselage was located on the shore of Lake Ontario near Watertown, New York, but was not identified. No trace of any survivors was found.

430 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

426850 Warrant Officer WOOD, Albert Ernest

Source: NAA : A705, 166/44/245

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: NG 230 Radio call sign: EM – F Unit: 207 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster NG 230 of 207 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Spilsby, Lincolnshire, at 1716 hours on 5 March 1945 for a bombing raid on Bohlen, Germany. It carried 1 x 1000lb and 12 x 500lb bombs. The aircraft did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 437120 FO De Garis, W S, Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Burt, A S (Flight Engineer) RAF FO Morris, C (Navigator) RAF Flt Sgt Giles, S F (Air Bomber) RAAF 426850 WO Wood, A E (Wireless Operator/Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Drysdale, W (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Edge, W H (Air Gunner)

A 1950 report by the Missing Research & Enquiry Service advised that after prolonged search and investigation to ascertain details as to how the member lost his life and to recover the body for burial were unsuccessful and no news could be obtained of the aircraft or any member of the crew.

431 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

411625 Warrant Officer WOODEY, Jack Edward

Source: NAA : A705, 166/44/141

Aircraft Type: Spitfire Serial number: MB 883 Radio call sign: Unit: 131 Sqn RAF

Summary: Spitfire MB 383 of No 131 (County of Kent) Sqn RAF, from RAF Culmbead, near Taunton, Somerset, was last seen on a Squadron mission east of Morlaix, France.

In a statement by Flt Lt Beadman (RAF) he reported : “On the morning of 7 June 1944 I was flying in a section of 4 aircraft as No 3 with WO Woodey flying No 4. The formation was flying east to west between St Briens and Morlaix, France, with the object of shooting up railway engines and other military targets. Woodey was flying quite close to my port side, and was in view except on occasions when an attack was made and then the section was in loose line astern, Woodey being the last to attack. During an attack on a train I noticed tracer coming up from the ground which passed under my wings. The Flight Commander called up on R/T as a safety check for myself and Woodey but there was no reply from Woodey. This was the last occasion I saw him. During a later attack on a train, I noticed return fire at someone behind me but whether or not it was Woodey I am unable to say. I heard nothing on the radio to say he had been hit”.

Crew: RAAF 411625 WO Woodey, J E (Pilot)

In 1949 it was recorded that WO Woodey had no known grave.

432 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404274 Sergeant WOODHEAD, Keith Moore

Source: NAA : A705,163/179/96

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: W 5416 Radio call sign: EP - Unit: 104 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington W 5416 of 104 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Driffield at 2240 hours on 19 August 1941 to bomb Kiel, Germany. The aircraft was last heard on W/T at 0318 hours on 20 August trying to raise Bircham Newton. Nothing further was heard from W 5416 and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 404274 Sgt Woodhead, K M (Pilot) RAF PO Burton, W W RAF Sgt Haney, J RAF Sgt Johnson, H E RCAF Sgt Marshall, D C RCAF Sgt Rodgers, J G

The body of Sgt Haney (RAF) was washed ashore at Busum and was interred at Kiel War Cemetery. Busum is on the north-west coast of Germany, 72 miles north of Bremen. It was later recorded that the remaining missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

433 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404047 Sergeant WOODROFFE, Gordon Burrows

Source: NAA : A705, 163/179/92

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: AC 5990 Radio call sign: Unit: 113 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim AC 5990 of 113 Sqn RAF was shot down into the sea on 9 August 1941during a night air mission at Mersa Matruh Hollow, Middle East.

Crew: RAAF 406037 Sgt Sands, W R (Pilot) RAAF 404047 Sgt Woodroffe, G B (Observer) RAF Sgt Greenless, A (Wireless Operator Air Gunner)

Sgt Sands who baled out of the aircraft was in the water for eight hours before being rescued. He formed the opinion that both Woodroffe and Greenless could not have survived the crash. It was later recorded that the two missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

434 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

420511 Flight Sergeant WOODS, Alfred

Source: NAA : A705, 166/44/131

Aircraft Type: Marauder Serial number: FK 110 Radio call sign: Unit: 14 Sqn RAF

Summary: Marauder FK 110 of 14 Sqn RAF, British North African Forces, was detailed to carry out on 9 May 1944, a low level reconnaissance of enemy shipping in the vicinity of the Ionian Island off the coast of Greece in the South Adriatic Sea. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it failed to return from the mission. Subsequent ASR searches failed to find the aircraft or any survivors.

Crew: RAF Flt Sgt Ross, J (Pilot) RAF Sgt Green, W N (Pilot) RAAF 420511 Flt Sgt Woods, A (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAAF 420601 Flt Sgt Ryan, E J (Wireless Operator Air) RAAF 420694 Flt Sgt Mackrell, T (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Flt Sgt Andrews, H G (Wireless Operator Air)

All the crew have no known grave and their names are commemorated on the Malta Memorial. The Memorial is situated in the area of Floriana and is easily identified by the Golden Eagle which identified the column. It stands outside the main entrance at Valletta, Malta.

435 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

400611 Warrant Officer WOODS, Clive Alfred

Source: NAA : A705, 163/179/216

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HX 402 Radio call sign: Unit: 38 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HX 402 of 38 Sqn RAF, Middle East, took off from RAF Giancles on the night of 23 September 1942 to carry out a torpedo operation against a target in a position approx 60 miles north of Cape El Tin. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 400273 Flt Sgt Flanagan, R V Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Archer, J F (2nd Pilot) RAAF 400611 WO Woods, C A (Observer) RAF Sgt Young, V (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Brogden, A C J (Air Gunner)

Flt Sgt Flanagan (RAAF) who became a POW later made this statement “ Woods was drowned when the plane crashed in the sea one and a half hours after take off and before attacking the target. Both engines cut out at 1200 feet. He had just handed over the controls to the 2nd Pilot and was discussing the course with Woods. He immediately ordered crash landing stations, and moved aft to the wobble pump and petrol cocks. While aft he removed the astro hatch, turned all the petrol cocks on and operated the wobble pump for a short time. He then moved forward and stood in the 2nd pilot’s position. From there he advised the 2nd pilot on the best method to make a safe landing. The aircraft crashed approx 50 miles NNW of Mersa Matruh. He was knocked unconscious and became entangled in wreckage. He managed to free himself and saw a dinghy 50 yard away. The only members to survive the crash were Sgt Archer, Sgt Brogden and himself.”

It was later recorded that WO Woods and Sgt Young had lost their lives at sea.

436 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

417551 Sergeant WORDEN, Frank Elliott

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A705, 166/25/61 Commonwealth War Graves records. W R Chorley : RAF Bomber Command Losses Operational Training Units, page 243, Volume 7.

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: BJ 587 Radio call sign: Unit: 12 OP TRAINING RAF

Summary: Wellington BJ 587 No 12 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off from RAF Chipping Warden, near Banbury Cross, on the night of 18/19th August 1943 on a non operational “Bullseye” training exercise. The route was from Chipping Warden – Grantham – Londonderry -56.10N, 20.10W – Rothsay – Belfast – Douglas – Honeybourne – Chipping Warden. The aircraft did not return to base after the exercise.

Crew: RAAF 413624 Flt Sgt Lovelle-Draper, A M (Pilot) RAAF 422559 Sgt Hogan, A J (2nd Navigator) RAAF 417551 Sgt Worden, F E (Bomb Aimer) RAAF 415684 Sgt Russell, D (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt S W Wood RAF Sgt W D McDonald

The body of Sgt Russell (RAAF) was washed ashore at St Bees Head, and he is buried in the Chester (Bacon) Cemetery, UK. The body of Sgt Hogan (RAAF) was recovered from the sea at Port William, Widtownshire.and he is buried in the Newton Stewart Cemetery, Scotland. . It was recorded in 1949 that the remaining members of the crew had lost their lives at sea. Their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK

437 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

401333 Sergeant WOTHERSPOON, Alexander

Source: NAA : A705, 163/179/196

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: IR 5605 Radio call sign: Unit: 61 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster IR 5605 of 61 Sqn RAF of RAF Station Syverston, Newark, Nottinghamshire, took off from St Eval drome at 0808 hours on 19 August 1942 to carry out an anti sub patrol in the Bay of Biscay. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RNZAF Flt Sgt Haynes, O Captain (Pilot) RAAF 401333 Sgt Wotherspoon,, A (2nd Pilot) RCAF WO Smith, G H (Navigator) RCAF Flt Sgt Sheppard, E E (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RCAF Sgt Shepherd, A (2nd Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RCAF Flt Sgt Taylor, H G (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt King, D J (Air Gunner)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

438 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

416012 Sergeant WRENCH, Horace

Source: NAA : A705, 166/44/12

Aircraft Type: Hampden Serial number: L 4037 Radio call sign: Unit: 489 Sqn Royal New Zealand Air Force

Summary: Hampden L 4037 of No 489 Sqn RNZAF crashed into the sea off Staxigoe, near Wick, Scotland at 11am on 13 February 1943. The aircraft had taken off on a non operational acceptance test to determine the flying qualities of the aircraft. After a few minutes the aircraft was seen to crash for no apparent reason. At a subsequent Court of Inquiry it was found that there was loss of control of the aircraft when one engine caught fire.

Crew: RAAF 416012 Sgt Wrench, H (Pilot) RAF Sgt Burt, R E (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF LAC Richardson, A (Fitter M/A)

It was later recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

439 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

30881 Flight Sergeant WRIGHT, Frederick John

Source: NAA : A9301, Barcode 4586444

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HX 744 Radio call sign: Unit: 1 Op Trg RAF

Summary: Wellington HX 744 of No 1 Operational Training Unit RAF, based at RAF Station Turnberry, at 0434 hours on 7 August 1943, was flying over the sea in northerly direction about 600 yards south west of the airfield. The height was approx 100 feet and the aircraft appeared to be losing height rapidly.

The target ship “Heliopolis” contacted base and stated that they believed an aircraft had crashed into the sea. The body of Flt Sgt Wright was not recovered.

Crew: RAAF 30881 Flt Sgt Wright, F J (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) Details of other crew members are not recorded in the above file.

440 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

414371 Sergeant WRIGHT, Stuart Ronald

Source: NAA : A705, 166/13/22 Commonwealth War Graves records W R Chorley :RAF Bomber Command Losses of the Second World War 1940-1947, Page 207, Volume 7.

A ircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: DV 914 Radio call sign: Unit: 20 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington DV 914 of No 20 Operational Training Unit RAF, took off on 12 March 1943 on an operational training flight between the Mull of Kintyre and Scarpa Island, West Scotland. The route was Base – Tiree – Mull of Kintyre – Scarpa – Base. No signals were received from the aircraft and it failed to return to base from the exercise. An aircraft was seen by ASR launches exercising in the vicinity of the Island of Tiree to spin into the sea from a height of 10000 feet. It was also separately reported that an RAF Corporal and a civilian had seen an aircraft crash into the sea off the West coast of Scotland and this was considered by the unit to be DV 914.

Crew: RAF Sgt Morris, G E (Pilot) RAAF 414371 Sgt Wright, S R (Navigator) RAAF 414548 Sgt Fitzerald, P J (2nd Navigator) RAAF 420978 Sgt McDonagh, J H W(Bombaimer) RAF Sgt Robinson, T (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 412744 Sgt Stockbridge, H S (Air Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was recorded in 1949 that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea. Their names have been commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK.

441 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

432329 Flight Sergeant YABSLEY, Raymond

Source: NAA : A705, 166/45/68

Aircraft Type: Whitley Serial number: Z 6739 Radio call sign: Unit: 19 Op Base RAF

Summary: Whitley Z 6739 was detailed on the night of 27 August 1944 to carry out a bombing exercise at Burghead and then a cross country operational training exercise from Base – Benbecula – Cape Wrath – 58deg N 1 deg W – Inverurie – Base. On return to carry out an air firing exercise at Spey Bay.

The aircraft took off at 2139 hours from RAF Kinloss, Scotland, completed the bombing exercise and carried on with the cross country exercise. All early contacts were in order. At 0140 hours on the 28th August Z6739 requested a fix from Leuchars and received a first class bearing. Good contacts were maintained with the aircraft until 0231 hours, but then nothing further was heard from the aircraft which did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 432340 Flt Sgt Caddy, P G (Pilot) RAF Sgt Finch W A B (Navigator) RAF Sgt Crawford, J (Air Bomber) RAAF 432329 Flt Sgt Yabsley, (Wireless Operator Air) RAF Sgt Truffet, F (Mid Upper Gunner) RAF Sgt Tibbles, R E (Rear Gunner)

Searches were carried out over the following days but no trace of the missing aircraft or crew was found. In 1949 it was recorded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

442 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

420098 Flight Sergeant YORK, Leslie Bennett

Source: NAA : A705, 166/45/21

Aircraft Type: Halifax Serial number: HR 749 Radio call sign: Unit: 51 Sqn RAF

Summary: Halifax HR 749 of 51 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Snaith, near Goole, Yorkshire at 2246 hours on the night of 25 July 1943 to attack Essen, Germany. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF Sgt Jones, E J (Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Wallace, W C (Navigator) RAF Sgt Huddy, L W A (Air Bomber) RAF Sgt Reid, W (Wireless Operator) RAF Sgt Crowther, J (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Ritchie, J B (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 420098 Flt Sgt York, L B (Rear Gunner)

Following post war searches and enquiries it was recorded in 1950 that the missing crew had no known grave.

443 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

414148 Warrant Officer YOUNG, Henry Kenneth

Source: NAA : A705, 166/45/52

Aircraft Type: Spitfire Serial number: JB 383 Radio call sign: Unit: 615 Sqn RAF

Summary: Spitfire JB 383 of No 615 (County of Surrey) RAF, India, took off at 0500Z on 29 May 1944 from Patel to intercept Japanese aircraft. WO Young was flying No 2 in a Section led by Flt Sgt McKay. The Section climbed to 8000 feet and saw nine aircraft flying in a north westerly direction at the same height.

The Section then climbed to the west to 11000 feet when they were jumped by three Oscars (Army 01) diving down from the 5 o’clock position. WO Young in JB 383 was last seen taking evasive action by diving down steeply to port. Flt Sgt McKay called him on R/T a few minutes later but there was no response.

Crew: RAAF 414148 WO Young, H K (Pilot)

It was later established that the aircraft crashed very close to the village of Wangu approx. 10 miles south west of Patel, Burma. Young was buried by Military authorities on 31 May 1944. His unidentified remains were later reinterred in the Imphal military cemetery.

444 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

404130 Sergeant YOUNG, Roland John

Source: NAA : A705, 163/181/44

Aircraft Type: Blenheim Serial number: Z 6645 Radio call sign: Unit: 203 Sqn RAF

Summary: Blenheim Z 6645 of 203 Sqn RAF took off at 0600 hours on 29 September 1941, to carry out a routine patrol in the Eastern Mediterranean. Nothing was heard from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAF PO Hurton, (Pilot) RAAF 404130 Sgt Young, R J (Observer) RAF Sgt Billingsley-Dooley, W (Wireless Operator air gunner)

The body of PO Hurton is buried at Haifa Khayat Beach Military Cemetery, Palestine. It was recorded in 1948 that the two missing crew members had lost their lives at sea.

445 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

424503 Flight Sergeant YOUNG, Sydney James Herbert

Source: NAA : A705, 166/40/182

Aircraft Type: Anson Serial number: DJ 639 Radio call sign: Unit: 10 Radio School RAF

Summary: Anson DJ 639 of 10 Radio School RAF took off from Carew Cherington, at 1357 hours on a three hour W/T training flight over the Irish Sea. At 1500 hours a fix was obtained in position 52.10N, 0603W. Nothing further was heard from the aircraft and it failed to return to base.

An unconfirmed report from Eire authorities reported that an aircraft was seen to dive into the sea from 4000 feet at 1516 hours some four miles south east of Greenore Point and one mile north of Tusker Rock. The aircraft was a total loss and no parts were recovered. The body of one crew member AC2 Carr (RAF) was picked up by launch at 1530 hours.

Crew: RAF FO Johnson, R I (1st Pilot) RAAF 424479 Flt Sgt Tudehope (1st Pupil Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAAF 424503 Flt Sgt Young, S J H (2nd Pupil Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF AC2 Carr, R R (Passenger)

It was later recorded that the three missing crew members had lost their lives at sea. Their names ar recorded on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK AC2 Carr is buried in the Morval (St Wenna0 Church Cemetery, UK.

446 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

422296 Flight Sergeant REID, Ronald Arthur Lloyd

Source: NAA : A705, 166/35/301

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HZ 703 Radio call sign: Unit: 8 Sqn RAF

Summary: Wellington HZ 703 of 8 Sqn RAF, British Forces Aden, took off at 10.30pm at night on 27 June 1944 on a convoy escort patrol. At 0205 hours on 28 June, SS Highland Prince reported that a twin engine aircraft had crashed in the sea, caught fire and exploded. The reported position was 12.20N, 44.03E. The ship and the Navy searched for two hours but no trace of any survivors was found. It was established that no other aircraft apart from HZ 703 was in the vicinity at the time.

Crew: RCAF FO Ferguson, G W (Captain (Pilot) RAF FO Davis, H H G ((2nd Pilot) RAF Flt Lt Moeseley, E F (Navigator Bomb Aimer) RAAF 422296 Flt Sgt Reid, R A L (Wireless Operator Air) (ASVG) RAAF 418486 Flt Sgt Walker, G M (Wireless Operator Air) (ASVG) RAAF 425551 Flt Sgt Ryalls, C D (Wireless Operator Air) (ASVG)

It was later concluded that the missing crew had lost their lives at sea.

447 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

419171 Flight Sergeant FORBES, John Ronald

Source: AWM 237 (65) NAA : A9301, Barcode 5534504 See also A705, 166/27/279 and 166/14/126 Commonwealth War Graves records.

Aircraft Type: Wellington Serial number: HZ 129 Radio call sign: Unit: 15 Op Training RAF

Summary: Wellington HZ 129 of No 15 Operational Training Unit RAF took off on 19 November 1943 from RAF Portreath for Gibraltar, in transit for Rabat Sali, North Africa. The aircraft failed to arrive at Gibraltar.

Crew: RAAF 413628 Flt Sgt Matheson, R H (Pilot) RAAF 419171 Flt Sgt Forbes, J R (Air Gunner) RAAF 423208 Flt Sgt Murray, J A McC (Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Robinson, E A RAF Sgt Deveney, P J RAF Sgt Harris, L S RAF Sgt Smith, L T RAF Sgt Wooldridge, F J

All the crew have no known grave, and their names are commemorated on the Memorial to the Missing, Runnymede, UK.

448 RAAF PERSONNEL SERVING ON ATTACHMENT IN ROYAL AIR FORCE SQUADRONS AND SUPPORT UNITS IN WORLD WAR 2 AND MISSING WITH NO KNOWN GRAVE.

405586 Flight Sergeant HILEY, Alan Ernest

Source: NAA : A705, 166/17/39

Aircraft Type: Lancaster Serial number: W 4313 Radio call sign: SR – G Unit: 101 Sqn RAF

Summary: Lancaster W 4313 of 101 Sqn RAF took off from RAF Station Holme-on-Spalding Moor, Yorkshire, at 1731 hours on 11 February 1943 to bomb Wilhelmshaven, Germany. The aircraft was due back at base at 2254 hours. Nothing was heard from W 4313 after take off and it did not return to base.

Crew: RAAF 405586 Flt Sgt Hiley, A E Captain (Pilot) RAF Sgt Spivey, E T (Flight Engineer) RAF Sgt Collins, R A (Navigator) RAAF 411372 Sgt Paterson, F H (Wireless Operator Air Gunner) RAF Sgt Teviotdale, T (Bomb Aimer) RAF Sgt Bozier, R T (Mid Upper Gunner) RAAF 411259 Sgt Quinlan, S G (Rear Gunner)

Following post war enquiries and investigations, it was established that the aircraft crashed and exploded on impact on the edge of a sandbank near the Isle of Juist at approx 8pm on 11 February 1943. Juist is one of the Friesian Island group of islands off the German coast near the border with Holland. German documents had recorded that Sgt Paterson had been buried at Dunes cemetery Juist, but this had been found to be incorrect, and although it had been reported that six bodies of the crew had been recovered from the sea and buried on the island, exhaustive searches and exhumations had failed to establish the identity of any member of the crew.

It was subsequently recorded that the missing crew members had no known grave.

449