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Posts 2023 |
30 December 2023, we received this message from Claire Louise Jr.
80 years ago today Sgt Lee and his crew were MIA on the operation to Berlin.
Lancaster DS 834 KO-F.
Four of the crew were killed on 29th December 1943, due to a crash at Tungelroij at the Nelehof farm near Weert before or after an attack on Berlin in Germany. Sgt Bell was spare and had replaced Jack Read on this op. The other fallen crew members were Sgt Laurence H. Jones RAFVR,
Sgt Wilkinson RCAF and
Sgt Graham Johnson RAFVR. The other crew members, all RAFVR: F/Sgt J.Y Lee and Sgt H.L. Pike survived the crash but were later captured and became
prisoners of war, Sgt A.F. Gunnell (1923-2018))managed to evade capture and eventually returned to England. I’m attaching photos of Keith Bell, taken from the Australian National Archives website where his service record is available to the public.
Also a course photo from 12 OTU in Oct 1943. Kind regards
Claire
28 December 2023, we received following post of Peter Schofield,
Hi
Many thanks for keeping your blog going and helping share the memories of everyone who fought for freedom and in particular those who flew with 115 Squadron.
We were at the Imperial War Museum North in Manchester yesterday and to my surprise there was this piece of nose art from 115 Squadron J for Jonnie.
From the flight records I think could have been Lancaster Mk II J.D.S.678 being flown by F/S Ernie Moon, with my Uncle Harry Durham as Navigator or J.L.L 650 which in January 1944 was being flown by PO D.Canning and crew to attack Berlin.
May be of interest to all your readers?
Very best wishes
Peter.
Mission 2 January 1944,
target Berlin.
From the flight records I think could have been Lancaster Mk II J.D.S.678 being flown by F/S Ernie Moon, with my Uncle Harry Durham as Navigator or J.L.L 650 which in January 1944 was being flown by PO D.Canning and crew to attack Berlin.
May be of interest to all your readers?
Very best wishesPeter.
Mission 2 January 1944, target Berlin.
26 December 2023, we received the following post from John Trippenzee,
Hi,
I am looking for more information about the crashed Wellington bomber X9910 KO-Y. This was shot down on September 29, 1941 over the Dollart in Germany and crashed in Blijham, Netherlands.
Of the crew, only the tail gunner survived and was taken to Poland as a POW. Do you have any more information? I am a veteran myself and have adopted their grave. I visited them yesterday and placed a candle.
Know more or less the whole story. But I'm looking for photos. It cannot be that there are no photos at all of certain crew members or the aircraft. But we won't give up,
I'll keep looking. In any case, thanks for your thoughts. Greetings John.
I am looking for more information about the crashed Wellington bomber X9910 KO-Y. This was shot down on September 29, 1941 over the Dollart in Germany and crashed in Blijham, Netherlands.
Of the crew, only the tail gunner survived and was taken to Poland as a POW. Do you have any more information? I am a veteran myself and have adopted their grave. I visited them yesterday and placed a candle.
Know more or less the whole story. But I'm looking for photos. It cannot be that there are no photos at all of certain crew members or the aircraft. But we won't give up,
I'll keep looking. In any case, thanks for your thoughts. Greetings John.
22 December 2023. Marham Aviation Heritage Centre - AHCV
To all our friends, supporters and visitors, the staff and volunteers at the RAF Marham
Aviation Heritage Centre wish you a very peaceful,
safe and happy Christmas and New Year and we look forward to seeing you and welcoming
you back in the New Year.
25 November 2023,
OBITUARY
Charles Sargeant Charles passed away on 13th November 2023, aged 98.
Lancaster Bomber ‘tail-end Charlie’ who was decorated for bravery after surviving a remarkable 56 operations
over Nazi Germany. source, the LlanhillethCommunity archive.
Photo via Mellissa Shepherd.
11 November 2023,
Lest we forget - Lancaster KO-Y DS 734. Sint-Katelijne-Waver, Belgium.
Photo above from hangarflying.
Photo above from hangarflying.
10 November 2023, Het gemeentebestuur van Sint-Katelijne-Waver organiseert samen met onze heemkundige/geschiedkundige verenigingen
Erf en Heem vzw en vzw Jozef van Rompay-Davidsfonds-Genootschap een tentoonstelling over de geschiedenis van Katelijne en Waver. Deze zal plaatvinden van 10 november tot 17 december 2023 in de exporuimte van het gemeentehuis. We beginnen in de prehistorie met de nabij school Dijkstein gevonden silex-spits, vervaardigd door een Neanderthaler (35.000 à 45.000 jaar geleden)
en eindigen met de fusie van 1977. Uiteraard komen beide wereldoorlogen ook aan bod. De tragische crash van de Lancaster bommenwerper KO-Y op 25 april 1944 zal te zien zijn met dank aan de Friends of 115 Squadron, RAF.
The municipal council of Sint-Katelijne-Waver, together with our local/historical associations Erf en Heem vzw and vzw Jozef van Rompay-Davidsfonds-Genootschap, is organizing
an exhibition about the history of Katelijne and Waver. This will take place from November 10 to December 17, 2023 in the exhibition space of the town hall. We start in prehistory with the flint spire found near the Dijkstein school, made by a Neanderthal (35,000 to 45,000 years ago) and end with the merger of 1977.
Of course, both world wars are also discussed. The tragic crash of the Lancaster bomber KO-Y on April 25, 1944 will be on display. courtesy of the Friends of 115 Squadron, RAF.
Erf en Heem vzw en vzw Jozef van Rompay-Davidsfonds-Genootschap een tentoonstelling over de geschiedenis van Katelijne en Waver. Deze zal plaatvinden van 10 november tot 17 december 2023 in de exporuimte van het gemeentehuis. We beginnen in de prehistorie met de nabij school Dijkstein gevonden silex-spits, vervaardigd door een Neanderthaler (35.000 à 45.000 jaar geleden)
en eindigen met de fusie van 1977. Uiteraard komen beide wereldoorlogen ook aan bod. De tragische crash van de Lancaster bommenwerper KO-Y op 25 april 1944 zal te zien zijn met dank aan de Friends of 115 Squadron, RAF.
The municipal council of Sint-Katelijne-Waver, together with our local/historical associations Erf en Heem vzw and vzw Jozef van Rompay-Davidsfonds-Genootschap, is organizing an exhibition about the history of Katelijne and Waver. This will take place from November 10 to December 17, 2023 in the exhibition space of the town hall. We start in prehistory with the flint spire found near the Dijkstein school, made by a Neanderthal (35,000 to 45,000 years ago) and end with the merger of 1977.
Of course, both world wars are also discussed. The tragic crash of the Lancaster bomber KO-Y on April 25, 1944 will be on display. courtesy of the Friends of 115 Squadron, RAF.
9 November 2023, who can help Flt Lt Mike Wood (Ret'd)
Good afternoon,
This is a bit of a longshot but I hope you may be able to help, or possibly guide me to another possible source of help.
I went through IOT at Cranwell and pilot training at Linton and Valley in the late 70's with Jim Rooney, and I have been trying
to trace him now for some time. Unfortunately recent data protection laws make this more difficult than it used to be,
for understandable reasons. I know that Jim flew Andovers and I have found a reference that he was part of the 115 Sqn crew which delivered an airframe ,
to RAF Museum Cosford in 1994. So far, that is the limit of my endeavours. Can you help in any way, or suggest anywhere else I can try. I have put in a question on the RAF Mates Facebook site and all that ,
came back was to try the 115 Sqn Association. If anyone is in contact with Jim I would be delighted if you could let him have my email address. Thank you for your time, Kind regards,
Mike Wood Contact via our mail, friends115squadron@gmail.com
to trace him now for some time. Unfortunately recent data protection laws make this more difficult than it used to be,
for understandable reasons. I know that Jim flew Andovers and I have found a reference that he was part of the 115 Sqn crew which delivered an airframe ,
to RAF Museum Cosford in 1994. So far, that is the limit of my endeavours. Can you help in any way, or suggest anywhere else I can try. I have put in a question on the RAF Mates Facebook site and all that ,
came back was to try the 115 Sqn Association. If anyone is in contact with Jim I would be delighted if you could let him have my email address. Thank you for your time, Kind regards,
Mike Wood Contact via our mail, friends115squadron@gmail.com
15 October 2023,
We received a mail from Gerard Bell and Colin Jarrold to share following links, and thank them for the effort, much appreciated.
Please find a link to the new 115 Sqn Memorial Group that Colin and I have created. I have also
copied a link to the UK and Commonwealth Forces Memorial group I run. Thank you for your help in sharing our group. I would like to let you know that I have been creating the attached Poppy cards for the last 2½ years and
to date have created some 6500 plus cards. My current project is to create the 1200 plus cards for all those
who served on 115 Sqn in WW2 and were lost. I myself am ex Royal Air Force and was based at R.A.F Benson in Oxfordshire from 1989 to 1991 and worked on 115 Sqn Andovers from time to time. Kind Regards
Gerald Bell.
Please find a link to the new 115 Sqn Memorial Group that Colin and I have created. I have also copied a link to the UK and Commonwealth Forces Memorial group I run. Thank you for your help in sharing our group. I would like to let you know that I have been creating the attached Poppy cards for the last 2½ years and
to date have created some 6500 plus cards. My current project is to create the 1200 plus cards for all those
who served on 115 Sqn in WW2 and were lost. I myself am ex Royal Air Force and was based at R.A.F Benson in Oxfordshire from 1989 to 1991 and worked on 115 Sqn Andovers from time to time. Kind Regards
Gerald Bell.
30 September 2023, We received photos via Paul Marham regarding the crew of Wellington BJ688 KO-R, they were lost on a
mission to Nuremberg, 28/29 August 1942. There were no survivors. on this mission 115 Squadron lost four crews, Wellington Mk III X3464 KO-B - 5 POW
Wellington Mk III X3647 KO-A - 4 KIA, 1 POW
Wellington Mk III X3675 KO-D - 3 KIA, 1 POW, 1 Evd Hello In 19 OTU, RAF Kinloss Course photographs I have found three men of this crew: PAFFORD, LAIDLAW and FOLLETT. IBCC Losses Database updated for each man. Tragically, P/O Pafford's older Brother F/Lt Frederick George Pafford (29),
a Flying Instructor, was also killed in a flying accident on 8 June 1942 and is buried in Chippenham, Wiltshire. Lest we forget Paul Markham
77 Squadron Association
mission to Nuremberg, 28/29 August 1942. There were no survivors. on this mission 115 Squadron lost four crews, Wellington Mk III X3464 KO-B - 5 POW
Wellington Mk III X3647 KO-A - 4 KIA, 1 POW
Wellington Mk III X3675 KO-D - 3 KIA, 1 POW, 1 Evd Hello In 19 OTU, RAF Kinloss Course photographs I have found three men of this crew: PAFFORD, LAIDLAW and FOLLETT. IBCC Losses Database updated for each man. Tragically, P/O Pafford's older Brother F/Lt Frederick George Pafford (29),
a Flying Instructor, was also killed in a flying accident on 8 June 1942 and is buried in Chippenham, Wiltshire. Lest we forget Paul Markham
77 Squadron Association
27 September 2023, Thanks to Nigel Cunliffe we have a new face for the Roll of Honour page of crew Wellington X3597 KO-Q who all lost their life on 16/17 November 1942. Please find attached a photograph of Sgt. Clarke, which I have obtained from Sgt. Clarke’s sister (my mother),
who is now aged 95 years and lives in Bolton, England (Sgt. Clarke’s birthplace). I did once visit Sgt. Clarke’s grave in La Baule, about 30 years ago, and I am hoping to visit again next year. I am currently reading through about 25 letters that Sgt. Clarke sent to my mum from where he was stationed,
in the two years before he died. Many thanks again for your important work in helping to maintain the memory of 115 Squadron. Best wishes,
Nigel Cunliffe
Liberation celebrations Mechelen, Belgium 02/09/2023.
Every year, a liberation celebration with accompanying commemoration ceremony for the allied troops is organized by the municipality of Mechelen. Also this year, to commemorate the 79th year, and to add splendor to the remembrance with an allied flag ceremony.
For this purpose, an annual static show with WWII period vehicles, a medical field post, a music stage with live atmospheric music from the 1940s to 1945, and other possible temporary exhibitions are held on the city's Grote Markt (Market Square). This year, the friends of the 115 Squadron RAF participated with an exhibition stand with the complete history of the Lancaster DS 734 KO-Y of the 115 Squadron RAF, with some excavated pieces of the Lancaster that crashed on April 24/25 1944, in special display boxes.
The monument, erected in 2004, near the crash site, has now also become a very recognizable beacon for the local population.
That generated general interest in what happened on that dark night in the war, in which 7 young crew members made the ultimate sacrifice. Never forgotten.
18 August 2023,
Hello and I hope you are well.I am a historian and novelist in Canada who has taken on the task of writing historical vignettes for all 125 students from my high school who gave their lives in the war.
No. 50 is Milt Pope, who died with his 115 Squadron crew in
Lancaster HK 624 IL-J, over Cologne. You can find it on my SPROG Facebook site. Thanks so much.
Malcolm Kelly
Hello and I hope you are well.I am a historian and novelist in Canada who has taken on the task of writing historical vignettes for all 125 students from my high school who gave their lives in the war.
No. 50 is Milt Pope, who died with his 115 Squadron crew in Lancaster HK 624 IL-J, over Cologne. You can find it on my SPROG Facebook site. Thanks so much.
Malcolm Kelly
12 August 2023,
Who can help Shane Brown from Canada?
Hi guys,
I am currently researching my granddad Gordon Brown and wondered if there was a database or any where i could go to look into the names
of the people he flew with? My nan, Audrey Brown, had a thank you posted in 2005 in the August Tiller. I believe my dad, Michael Brown, had contacted you as well as he was referred to as well. The Tiller August 2005. My granddad passed away in 2006 or 2007, my nan in 2018 and my dad in 2019.
My uncle died in 2021 so there is no one left to ask questions. All I have to go on are these old photos attached and a letter someone sent in reply after reading the Tiller. He provided that copy of the sortie and said his wifes uncle, a William Frank had flown with my Granddad. I did write to his address last year but he would be 83 now and the return address was sold in 2016 so not sure if he is still alive. I have a list of names as well that he provided. best regards, SHANE BROWN
UX/UI DESIGNER/DEVELOPER
of the people he flew with? My nan, Audrey Brown, had a thank you posted in 2005 in the August Tiller. I believe my dad, Michael Brown, had contacted you as well as he was referred to as well. The Tiller August 2005. My granddad passed away in 2006 or 2007, my nan in 2018 and my dad in 2019.
My uncle died in 2021 so there is no one left to ask questions. All I have to go on are these old photos attached and a letter someone sent in reply after reading the Tiller. He provided that copy of the sortie and said his wifes uncle, a William Frank had flown with my Granddad. I did write to his address last year but he would be 83 now and the return address was sold in 2016 so not sure if he is still alive. I have a list of names as well that he provided. best regards, SHANE BROWN
UX/UI DESIGNER/DEVELOPER
3 August 2023. Post from the The New Zealand Bomber Command Association.
Yesterday, our most senior veteran , Jack Marshall DFC, celebrated his 103 rd birthday. Jack was born in the UK and prewar his family moved to NZ. With a string family tradition of service to King and country,
Jack enlisted in the RNZAF training as a gunner. He flew a total of 46 operations, firstly on Wellingtons with 115 squadron then straight
onto 7 PFF squadron flying Stirlings. His skipper there was NZ famous bomber captain, Fraser Barron DSO* DFC, DFM. (+2002) Post war Jack settled in Christchurch and continues to live there. Always in great health and spirits, Jack has had a setback lately but true to form is coming right. Happy Birthday jack from all of us. Jack Marshall's Biography (PDF) and photobook (PDF).
Jack enlisted in the RNZAF training as a gunner. He flew a total of 46 operations, firstly on Wellingtons with 115 squadron then straight
onto 7 PFF squadron flying Stirlings. His skipper there was NZ famous bomber captain, Fraser Barron DSO* DFC, DFM. (+2002) Post war Jack settled in Christchurch and continues to live there. Always in great health and spirits, Jack has had a setback lately but true to form is coming right. Happy Birthday jack from all of us. Jack Marshall's Biography (PDF) and photobook (PDF).
3 August 2023, Who can help Brian Sadler?
I am looking/researching a Sgt. C. D. Tavener who was the Wireless Operator on Wellington T2563 of 115 Squadron which force landed on
return from Essen on the Night of 12/13th August 1941. He carried out at least 33 Ops.as a Wireless Operator. One of his two of the pilots he flew with were shot down and Killed and two were killed in Accidents while with OTU’s. Sgt. Tavener Retrained as a Pilot being promoted to a F/O. and leaving the RAF IN 1946. After looking at your Great Web Site. After this incident involving the Intruder I can’t seem to find anything about him or his Crew, could you help.
Would you by any chance have a Photograph of him or his Crew. From your site the Crew were slightly injured But the Unfortunate Rear Gunner was killed in the attack.
With the hope that you can help?Very Best Regards.
return from Essen on the Night of 12/13th August 1941. He carried out at least 33 Ops.as a Wireless Operator. One of his two of the pilots he flew with were shot down and Killed and two were killed in Accidents while with OTU’s. Sgt. Tavener Retrained as a Pilot being promoted to a F/O. and leaving the RAF IN 1946. After looking at your Great Web Site. After this incident involving the Intruder I can’t seem to find anything about him or his Crew, could you help.
Would you by any chance have a Photograph of him or his Crew. From your site the Crew were slightly injured But the Unfortunate Rear Gunner was killed in the attack.
With the hope that you can help?Very Best Regards.
27 July 2023.
Thanks to research from Paul Makham, 77 Squadron Association, we have 3 more faces for our Roll of Honour pages.
Nav Sgt. Norman William PROCTER,
MUG Sgt. Arthur Anthony RUSH
and Rear Gunner F/Sgt Frederick CUFFEY. Just MUSTCHIN missing from this crew now. All crew members on Lancaster Mk II - DS652 KO-B, shot down by a night fighter (Claim by Hptm Hans-Joachim Jabs 11/NJG1)
and crashed on 13/14 June 1943 at 0211 in the Waddenzee 15 km NE of Den Oever, Netherlands. There were no survivors. Lest we forget Paul Makham,
77 Squadron Association
MUG Sgt. Arthur Anthony RUSH
and Rear Gunner F/Sgt Frederick CUFFEY. Just MUSTCHIN missing from this crew now. All crew members on Lancaster Mk II - DS652 KO-B, shot down by a night fighter (Claim by Hptm Hans-Joachim Jabs 11/NJG1)
and crashed on 13/14 June 1943 at 0211 in the Waddenzee 15 km NE of Den Oever, Netherlands. There were no survivors. Lest we forget Paul Makham,
77 Squadron Association
15 July 2023. Marham Aviation Heritage Centre - AHC
On Saturday 29th July, Mark Every and Ken Delve will be in the Centre to offer advice and help to those of you wishing to research a relative who has served in the Royal Air Force.
Please be aware groundcrew are very difficult to track but not impossible. If you are just beginning your journey into military research or if you would just like us to help you out
with the information you already have, this is a perfect opportunity to come chat, utilise our resources or learn some skills that will help you in your
future research.
We will be running our session from 1000 - 1300 although this may extend if we have a good response. Please feel free to just drop in but if you have someone in mind it would be appreciated if you let us know some details prior so that we can prepare materials prior to your visit.
Look forward to seeing you.
events.marhamahc@gmail.com
1 July 2023. Posted by Tony Hibberd on RAF Bomber Command Memorials following post.
Wichmond, Gelderland Province, the Netherlands.
In a rural location a new information board remembers the crew of 115 Sqn Wellington X3604 KO-Y who were killed when their aircraft
crashed at this location on 27/03/43. The aircraft had departed Marham at 1952 on 26/03/42 for Ops Essen. It was intercepted 1.5km E of Wichmond by a Nightfighter captained
by Lt Manfred Meurer (9/NJG1) and shot down at 0010 on 27/03/42) for his 1st Abschuss. The aircraft crashed near Dieren with the loss of all six crew. RAF loss info source; Chorley's BCL Vol 4 - Nachtjagd claim info source; Boiten's NCA 1943 Part 1.
Images taken by and reproduced with the kind permission of Robert de Vries.
In a rural location a new information board remembers the crew of 115 Sqn Wellington X3604 KO-Y who were killed when their aircraft
crashed at this location on 27/03/43. The aircraft had departed Marham at 1952 on 26/03/42 for Ops Essen. It was intercepted 1.5km E of Wichmond by a Nightfighter captained
by Lt Manfred Meurer (9/NJG1) and shot down at 0010 on 27/03/42) for his 1st Abschuss. The aircraft crashed near Dieren with the loss of all six crew. RAF loss info source; Chorley's BCL Vol 4 - Nachtjagd claim info source; Boiten's NCA 1943 Part 1.
Images taken by and reproduced with the kind permission of Robert de Vries.
Good evening
I am wondering if you can help me. My father was E. H. Noxon and served with 115, flying in Wellingtons and Mark 2 Lancasters.
I am the proud owner of many of his things, and whilst I have pictures of him in uniform I have none of him with his aircraft and crew.
Is there an archive of such pictures? I have scrolled though so many random pictures hoping that I might eventually find one, but to no avail.
Are you able to help? I have included 1 page from his log book that mentions the name of the crew which I am particularly interested in as they stayed the same for
most of this tour of duties including the Hamburg raids which the exception of one, when dad had to turn around anyway due to a faulty aircraft. Please find attached Pics of dad in his uniform Pic of dad asleep ( most telling I think)
I am lucky to be the holder of this medal (DFC) along with others,
and his wings, flight jacket and boots. Lots of other stuff too. Which I recently had valued for insurance. My dad was younger than my own two sons when he carried out these brave Challenges, he adored the Lancaster bomber, and told me it would always
take the whole runway to get off the ground with the payload they were carrying! It is so sad that only in recent years that bombers contributions have been recognised their losses were so great. He didn’t generally talk about things unless asked, but then always gave straight answers. I would also like to say that he was in awe of the marines who risked being torpedoed, he never had a op cancelled due to lack of fuel. He used to go to the reunions where he would regularly see Aubrey Howell and Frank Wolfson. Hoping that you might strike lucky with a picture. Any help would be very great fully received
Roz Ross
I am the proud owner of many of his things, and whilst I have pictures of him in uniform I have none of him with his aircraft and crew.
Is there an archive of such pictures? I have scrolled though so many random pictures hoping that I might eventually find one, but to no avail.
Are you able to help? I have included 1 page from his log book that mentions the name of the crew which I am particularly interested in as they stayed the same for
most of this tour of duties including the Hamburg raids which the exception of one, when dad had to turn around anyway due to a faulty aircraft. Please find attached Pics of dad in his uniform Pic of dad asleep ( most telling I think)
I am lucky to be the holder of this medal (DFC) along with others,
and his wings, flight jacket and boots. Lots of other stuff too. Which I recently had valued for insurance. My dad was younger than my own two sons when he carried out these brave Challenges, he adored the Lancaster bomber, and told me it would always
take the whole runway to get off the ground with the payload they were carrying! It is so sad that only in recent years that bombers contributions have been recognised their losses were so great. He didn’t generally talk about things unless asked, but then always gave straight answers. I would also like to say that he was in awe of the marines who risked being torpedoed, he never had a op cancelled due to lack of fuel. He used to go to the reunions where he would regularly see Aubrey Howell and Frank Wolfson. Hoping that you might strike lucky with a picture. Any help would be very great fully received
Roz Ross
17 May 2023.
Dear Sir
can anyone identify the crew in this photo.One person is Flight Sgt C. F. Trott. I am wondering if one of the others is a pilot Plum.
best wishesTony Trott (Plum Frank Norman, DFC and Bar - 12.03.1923 – 12.02.2009.
See post from 13 April 2023.28 August 2023, Dear Sir Please find attached a photo of my father Charles Frank Trott and the crew of a Lancaster. I PRESUME THIS WAS HIS REGULAR crew not the crew that was with him when he was shot down. Lancaster Mk II - DS668 KO-R CAN ANYONE IDENTIFY THE OTHER PEOPLE IN THE PHOTO. Best Wishes
TONY
3 May 2023. Posted by Reginald Bayly on RAF Bomber Command Crews and Aircraft Pictures following post.
Bomber Command 115 squadron crew out of RAF Witchford 1943.
back row L to R
Sgt E. Martin - WOP/Air.
Sgt F. Rutter - Flt. Eng.
F/O P. Frankland - skipper/pilot
P/O H. Skinner - Nav. Front row L to R F/Sgt D. Stewart-Smith - A/B.
Sgt J. Doering - Mid/Up -RCAF
Sgt R. Bayly - Rear Gunner - (my father)
Below, Mission 5/6 June 1944. Target Quistreham, France.
back row L to R
Sgt E. Martin - WOP/Air.Sgt F. Rutter - Flt. Eng.
F/O P. Frankland - skipper/pilot
P/O H. Skinner - Nav. Front row L to R F/Sgt D. Stewart-Smith - A/B.
Sgt J. Doering - Mid/Up -RCAF
Sgt R. Bayly - Rear Gunner - (my father)
Below, Mission 5/6 June 1944. Target Quistreham, France.
May 2nd 2023.
Dear Sirs,
I am writing to you after noticing an error on your Web site concerning Squadron 115 Wellington Mk III – X3593 – KO-C ;
you state that the aircraft crashed in Bièvres which is incorrect : The Île-de-France Branch of the Royal Air Forces Association has participated in the ceremony commemorating the lives of the
crew members of Squadron 115 Wellington Mk III – X3593 – KO-C and Squadron 57 Wellington Mk III – X3640 -DX since the
creation of our branch in 1946. The crash resulted from a mid-air collision of these aircraft on 29th of April 1942 over the town of Maisons-Laffitte, France.
It is thought that X3640 was hit by flak and then collided with X3593. Both aircraft fell in the area known as the "Parc de Maisons-Laffitte" and the debris was spread in 3 or 4 areas –
see the map attached. Crash Site Location The bodies of the crew of X3640 were severely charred but those of X3593 were intact.
All were collected by the personnel of the German HQ, which was also in the Park, and were laid out on the ground before being
transferred for burial to Bièvres.
On the 2nd of May the residents in the Park placed two small flags, one French and one British, at each spot where a body was found and laid a
bouquet of branches of Lilac bearing a tri-colour ribbon. The ceremony always takes place at the monument in Avenue Eglé, situated nearby the crash site in the Park, on the last Sunday of April
each year and is organised by the Mayor of the town, currently Jacques MYARD. He usually makes a very moving speech recalling the history of the laying of the bouquets of lilac. The monument unfortunately bears an error in the inscription, as it cites 157 Squadron instead of 57 Squadron. The monument was modified later to commemorate the crew of an American B-26 Marauder 42-96127 of the USAAF that crashed in the Park
on the 24th of June 1944, a short distance away in Avenue La Fontaine. I have attached some photos showing the monument, taken last Sunday after the ceremony. Kind regards,
Michael CLOSE – RAFA Île-de-France Events Organiser.
you state that the aircraft crashed in Bièvres which is incorrect : The Île-de-France Branch of the Royal Air Forces Association has participated in the ceremony commemorating the lives of the
crew members of Squadron 115 Wellington Mk III – X3593 – KO-C and Squadron 57 Wellington Mk III – X3640 -DX since the
creation of our branch in 1946. The crash resulted from a mid-air collision of these aircraft on 29th of April 1942 over the town of Maisons-Laffitte, France.
It is thought that X3640 was hit by flak and then collided with X3593. Both aircraft fell in the area known as the "Parc de Maisons-Laffitte" and the debris was spread in 3 or 4 areas –
see the map attached. Crash Site Location The bodies of the crew of X3640 were severely charred but those of X3593 were intact.
All were collected by the personnel of the German HQ, which was also in the Park, and were laid out on the ground before being
transferred for burial to Bièvres.
On the 2nd of May the residents in the Park placed two small flags, one French and one British, at each spot where a body was found and laid a
bouquet of branches of Lilac bearing a tri-colour ribbon. The ceremony always takes place at the monument in Avenue Eglé, situated nearby the crash site in the Park, on the last Sunday of April
each year and is organised by the Mayor of the town, currently Jacques MYARD. He usually makes a very moving speech recalling the history of the laying of the bouquets of lilac. The monument unfortunately bears an error in the inscription, as it cites 157 Squadron instead of 57 Squadron. The monument was modified later to commemorate the crew of an American B-26 Marauder 42-96127 of the USAAF that crashed in the Park
on the 24th of June 1944, a short distance away in Avenue La Fontaine. I have attached some photos showing the monument, taken last Sunday after the ceremony. Kind regards,
Michael CLOSE – RAFA Île-de-France Events Organiser.
24 April 2023, following mail was sent by Klaas Visser, from the Netherlands,
Vorige woensdag is er een nabestaande overgekomen met haar man om een bezoek te brengen
aan het graf op de begraafplaats van Winkel. Zij is een achternicht van Donald Larkman, van het 115 Squadron,
k.i.a 17 November 1940.
In een korte ceremonie werd door de burgemeester enz. stilgestaan bij deze gebeurtenis. Met vrgr.
Klaas Visser. Last Wednesday, a relative came over with her husband to visit the grave at the cemetery of Winkel.
She is a grandniece of Donald Larkman, of the 115 Squadron, k.i.a 17 November 1940.
In a short ceremony, the mayor etc. reflected on this event. Greetings.
Klaas Visser. Sgt. Larkman Donald - Pilot, and his crew lost their lives 16/17 November 1940 during a mission on Hamburg. 115 Squadron lost 4 Wellington's that night.
aan het graf op de begraafplaats van Winkel. Zij is een achternicht van Donald Larkman, van het 115 Squadron,
k.i.a 17 November 1940.
In een korte ceremonie werd door de burgemeester enz. stilgestaan bij deze gebeurtenis. Met vrgr.
Klaas Visser. Last Wednesday, a relative came over with her husband to visit the grave at the cemetery of Winkel.
She is a grandniece of Donald Larkman, of the 115 Squadron, k.i.a 17 November 1940.
In a short ceremony, the mayor etc. reflected on this event. Greetings.
Klaas Visser. Sgt. Larkman Donald - Pilot, and his crew lost their lives 16/17 November 1940 during a mission on Hamburg. 115 Squadron lost 4 Wellington's that night.
13 April 2023, Dear Sir,
Please see the announcement about Pilot P/O. Frank Norman PLUM, RAFVR,
a pilot who served with 115 Squadron; and later with 692 Squadron in No 8 Group.
Yours faithfully,
Norman Wells. Plum Frank Norman, DFC and Bar - 12.03.1923 – 12.02.2009. On 12th February peacefully at Blackbrook Care Home, Dedham, Norman of Frinton-on-Sea, aged 85 years.
Much loved husband of Audrey, a dear father of Melvin and Beverly and a loving grandad and great grandad.
A Thanksgiving Service will be held at St. Mary's Parish Church, Frinton-on-Sea on Wednesday, 25th February at 12 noon.
Family flowers only please but donations if so desired to RAFA Benevolent Fund c/o P.G. Oxley Ltd., 43/47 High Street,
Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex, CO14 8BE, Tel. 01255 675549. Source: gazette-news.co.uk. His missions with 115 Squadron.
Norman Wells. Plum Frank Norman, DFC and Bar - 12.03.1923 – 12.02.2009. On 12th February peacefully at Blackbrook Care Home, Dedham, Norman of Frinton-on-Sea, aged 85 years.
Much loved husband of Audrey, a dear father of Melvin and Beverly and a loving grandad and great grandad.
A Thanksgiving Service will be held at St. Mary's Parish Church, Frinton-on-Sea on Wednesday, 25th February at 12 noon.
Family flowers only please but donations if so desired to RAFA Benevolent Fund c/o P.G. Oxley Ltd., 43/47 High Street,
Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex, CO14 8BE, Tel. 01255 675549. Source: gazette-news.co.uk. His missions with 115 Squadron.
24/25 April 2023, Lets we forget, we remember the crew of Lancaster KO-J HK 542.
Today we remembered the crew of the crashed Lancaster HK542, in the night of 24th to 25th of April 1944 in Alken.
How better do that, then with friends!
We started with a short moment of remembrance by calling the crews names and end with the Last Post.
Then we left Alken for a trip through Haspengouw with our ww2 vehicles. It was a great day among friends!
Bart Smets.
We started with a short moment of remembrance by calling the crews names and end with the Last Post.
Then we left Alken for a trip through Haspengouw with our ww2 vehicles. It was a great day among friends!
Bart Smets.
24/25 April 2023, Lets we forget, we remember the crew of Lancaster KO-Y DS 734. Photos by Doc Holmes.
28 March 2023. Marham Aviation Heritage Centre - AHC
Come and join us this Saturday 1st April for our Op TELIC event and our 10th Anniversary at theRAF Marham Aviation Heritage Centre.
28 February 2023.
F/S. Sayce Stanley Walter RAFVR, Serv. Nr. 1318013 lost his life on 6 April 1944 on
Lancaster ME685 during a mission with 207 Squadron on the Montaudran factory, Toulouse area. He was married with Jessie for about one year. The crew is buried at Toulouse (La Fourguette) Communal Cemetery.
F/S. Bruce, F .T. R. – Mid Upper Gunner - R.A.A.F. - 423780. Age 32
F/S. Sayce, S. W. - Navigator - RAFVR. - 1318013. Age 25
F/S. Read, J. T. - Air Bomber - RAFVR - 1601667. Age 21
W/O. Senior, J. R. - Pilot - RAFVR. - 1057241. Age 23
W/O. Waycott, W. J. - Wireless, Air Gunner - R.A.A.F. - 415706. Age 21
Sgt. Wilson, H. - Air Gunner - RAFVR. - 1852344. Age
Sgt. Woolley, A. F. – Flight Engineer – RAFVR. – 1819373. Age 21. He became part of 115 Squadron and flew following missions from Witchford,
03/11/'43 – mission Mine laying – area West Frisians
18/11/'43 – target Berlin. Unable to reach target, bombed Bad Freienwalde
22/11/'43 – target Berlin, aircraft was hit by heavy Flak
23/11/'43 – target Berlin
On 18 December 1943, he was promoted to rank of temp. F/Sgt.17th January 1944, he write a letter from Newport; mentioning he is now based in Suffolk 20 miles from Cambridge.
With thanks to Claire J. R. cousin of F/S. Sayce currently researching the Crew.
F/S. Sayce Stanley Walter RAFVR, Serv. Nr. 1318013 lost his life on 6 April 1944 on Lancaster ME685 during a mission with 207 Squadron on the Montaudran factory, Toulouse area. He was married with Jessie for about one year. The crew is buried at Toulouse (La Fourguette) Communal Cemetery.
F/S. Bruce, F .T. R. – Mid Upper Gunner - R.A.A.F. - 423780. Age 32
F/S. Sayce, S. W. - Navigator - RAFVR. - 1318013. Age 25
F/S. Read, J. T. - Air Bomber - RAFVR - 1601667. Age 21
W/O. Senior, J. R. - Pilot - RAFVR. - 1057241. Age 23
W/O. Waycott, W. J. - Wireless, Air Gunner - R.A.A.F. - 415706. Age 21
Sgt. Wilson, H. - Air Gunner - RAFVR. - 1852344. Age
Sgt. Woolley, A. F. – Flight Engineer – RAFVR. – 1819373. Age 21. He became part of 115 Squadron and flew following missions from Witchford,
03/11/'43 – mission Mine laying – area West Frisians
18/11/'43 – target Berlin. Unable to reach target, bombed Bad Freienwalde
22/11/'43 – target Berlin, aircraft was hit by heavy Flak
23/11/'43 – target Berlin
On 18 December 1943, he was promoted to rank of temp. F/Sgt.
17th January 1944, he write a letter from Newport; mentioning he is now based in Suffolk 20 miles from Cambridge.
With thanks to Claire J. R. cousin of F/S. Sayce currently researching the Crew.
16 Februari 2024.
Dear friends,
hereby a link to the dairy of F/O Bruce Johnston, a website from Bruce Johnston, Mark Johnston, Scott Johnston in memory of their father, very interesting with a lot of infinformation, enjoy.
11 January 2023 posted Malcolm Sweeney on RAF Bomber Command Crews and Aircraft Pictures following post.
A while back I took my Father’s log book to the International Bomber Command Centre nr. Lincoln.
Theyve now digitalised it and it may be of interest to some on here as he was a pilot in 115 Sqn, based at RAF Witchford during the war. It records his missions plus crew names. Ive atatched a copy of the page covering DDay and the link to the log book ( all 300 plus pages, as it covers 1940- 1960 ) whist his name was Alfred Sweeney he was known as Todd Sweeney.
Theyve now digitalised it and it may be of interest to some on here as he was a pilot in 115 Sqn, based at RAF Witchford during the war. It records his missions plus crew names. Ive atatched a copy of the page covering DDay and the link to the log book ( all 300 plus pages, as it covers 1940- 1960 ) whist his name was Alfred Sweeney he was known as Todd Sweeney.
January 9th 2023, we received from our friend Peter-Jan van der Giezen from Papendrecht, Netherlands, following message and photos, see PDF.
Dear Filip and Geert,
This morning I went to the Freedom Museum at Groesbeek. There was a book with all the losses in the Netherlands of the RAF.
The 115th was also included.
I have attached photos of this.
Assume that this information is known to you, but I wanted to share it with you anyway.
Beste Filip en Geert,
Vanmorgen ben ik in het Vrijheidsmuseum in Groesbeek geweest. Daar lag een boek met alle verliezen in Nederland van de RAF.
Ook het 115e stond daarin. Hiervan heb ik bijgevoegde foto's gemaakt. Neem aan dat deze gegevens bekend zijn bij jullie maar wilde het in ieder
geval even delen met jullie. Met vriendelijke groet,
Peter-Jan.
This morning I went to the Freedom Museum at Groesbeek. There was a book with all the losses in the Netherlands of the RAF.
The 115th was also included.
I have attached photos of this.
Assume that this information is known to you, but I wanted to share it with you anyway.
Beste Filip en Geert,
Vanmorgen ben ik in het Vrijheidsmuseum in Groesbeek geweest. Daar lag een boek met alle verliezen in Nederland van de RAF. Ook het 115e stond daarin. Hiervan heb ik bijgevoegde foto's gemaakt. Neem aan dat deze gegevens bekend zijn bij jullie maar wilde het in ieder
geval even delen met jullie. Met vriendelijke groet,
Peter-Jan.