Hi, do you have any information on any B17’s from the 95th bomb Group, I am a committee member from this group and would like to research any information you have? Thank you Andy
Hello, one site after another has led me here. I don’t think this is the correct place because your dates are different, but I’m looking for more information about the crash where my great uncle lost his life, and I really don’t know where else to look. A family member recently received a letter from the Cambridge Cemetery. The pertinent part of the letter is as follows:
Please see below the information that we have on the crash which involved SSgt Logan.
His aircraft took off from Glatton at 14:19 hrs on an operational mission. Pilot was flying on instruments in clouds when the aircraft hit violent prop wash, throwing the aircraft into a dive. The pilot tried to recover too fast, causing too much stress on the tail section which broke off at the tail wheel. The aircraft crashed at 14:55 hrs at Park Farm, Hoxne, Suffolk. Seven from this crew were killed on this mission and 3 returned. They were all temporarily buried at the temporary cemetery in Cambridge, and 3 from this crew remain here in the permanent cemetery, 4 including SSgt Logan were repatriated back to the United States.
The info I have is that Uncle Roy died April 21, 1944. He was a SSGT in the 748 USAAF Bomb Squadron. My assumption is that the crash must have occurred the same day, but that may be wrong. I would most especially love to know the names of the three survivors, though they may be gone now. Any help would be most greatly appreciated.
That part of the country is not the geographical area I usually cover, but I will take a look at the resources and books I have this evening and will get back to you if I find anything. Will also have a think about where else you might be able to find the information you need.
Thank you so much. Any further information you could provide would be greatly appreciated. One other thing, in doing a basic computer search for the crash site, Park Farm, Hoxne, Suffolk, I was unable to find it. Do you know…is Park Farm an actual farm, a park, or a village?
Thank you very much for responding to my inquiry. I love being able to locate the pieces of the puzzle and watch the picture form.
I am unsure as to quite what info you have already but the details here were found on the internet. I have very few books detailing losses in that area, particularly US losses, but I knew of a few places to look online!
The aircraft was a B-17G Flying Fortress serial number 42-97236. It was with the 457th Bomb Group and was on a bombing raid to Merseberg near Leipzig in Germany on 21 April 1944, probably to attack the oil refinery there.
The bombers had been recalled due to bad weather but 42-97236 “while climbing into formation, encountered a heavy downdraft and the plane went into a dive. The pilot overcorrected in trying to pull out and the plane broke in half near the bomb bay. Parts of the plane fell in the vicinity of the field at Glatton. Four of the crew were able to bail out and survived. The remainder were killed.â€
Note that source, the 457th Bomb Group Association, mentions there being 4 survivors not 3. The extra survivor is listed as your uncle, so we can safely conclude that is incorrect and also that your uncle Roy died in the crash so the date you have is of both the crash and his death. It seems likely the survivors were wearing parachutes and were able to get out of the aircraft and open them.
The crew listing then is probably;
Lt Owen B. Coffman, pilot, killed.
Lt Stewart Barnes, co-pilot, killed
Lt Joseph J. Peacock, navigator, killed
Lt Lowell D. Baker, bombardier, killed
Sgt Leroy L. Logan, engineer / upper turret gunner, killed
Sgt Joseph T. Paddock, radio operator, killed
Sgt Morris R. Walker, left waist gunner, survived
Sgt Donald L. Moore, right waist gunner, killed
Sgt James C. Hilty, ball turret gunner, survived
Sgt John P. Medica, tail gunner, survived.
The American Air Museum in Britain has a different listing. Although it notes that Sergeant Logan was one of the fatalities, it lists the 3 survivors as including a radio operator called Lloyd Larson and yet makes no mention of Lt Peacock. However, Lt Peacock is certainly listed elsewhere as having been killed on 21 April 1944, so it is probable the museum has that detail incorrectly recorded but the detail about your uncle is correct. These sort of discrepancies are not that uncommon.
The aircraft crashed in farmland near Park Farm which is about one mile east of the village of Hoxne in Suffolk. Note also that the entry from the 457 Bomb Group Assn states that the aircraft broke up with bits falling in the fields near Glatton. This is bound to be a typo, as Hoxne is over 60 miles from Glatton, which was the bomb group’s base. RAF Glatton is about 6 miles south of the town of Peterborough.
Below; photo from the 457 Bomb Group Association showing some of the wreckage. The man is holding up part of the tail section. Looking at the ground rising beyond and the line of trees in the middle ground, the crash site may well be in the big field to the right of the farm, with this photo looking east. Maybe.
Aviation Archeological Research and Investigation On this page search by pressing (as you can on any page or document) Ctrl + F and in the search bar type 42-97236; it will take you to the entry for this aircraft.
Accident-Report.com Do the same as above. You should be able to purchase a full accident report from this site.
RAF Glatton with some photos from when 457 BG was based there.
Incidentally a couple of years ago I happened to be in a WW2 vintage aircraft flying over Cambridgeshire (RAF Glatton is just north of here) and the pilot took us over the American Cemetery. In this short video the pilot refers to it at about one and a half minutes in and we do a fly past. Though you can’t see the cemetery in this view you will get an idea of the country your uncle flew over during the war. I am in the front seat by the way.
Hope this answers your immediate questions and provides a basis for further research.
I can’t thank you enough. You’ve provided me with a wealth of information, and I’m eager to go through it more thoroughly. I could have searched for many more years and not found the wonderful sources you did. The footage of you flying was terrific as well. In some small way it’s comforting to see the area where he must have flown many times. I am so grateful that I’m nearly at a loss for words. This information means a great deal to me. It seems that my intuition led me to write the correct person after all.
Hi Sandy,
No problem, glad it has answered some questions for you. Sometimes the info is out there and it all opens up and its enjoyable to pirce the story together when it does (and there is more to be found I am sure, not least ironing out the discrepancies). Other times – such the as the request about the P-47 above – searches all end up pointing to the same very limited resource.
Ian
I did try to look up the three survivors, and I was very surprised to see that James C. Hilty (listed as a survivor) actually died on that day, too. I saw a picture of the headstone of his grave on findagrave.com. It even listed his rank and squadron number (748). That’s why I knew I had the correct person. Even though there is a wealth of information online, it’s always good, like you have mentioned, to note that there are mistakes to wade through as well. I’m eager to keep going.
Interesting to read that Sandy. If you find out any more you can add it here and then there will at least be a source of info for anyone else looking for it. Best of luck with your researches, hope to hear more. If ever I get down that part of the country I shall try to pin down the exact spot and add a photo of it.
Can you gie me any information on the crash of a USAAF P47 Razor back THunderbolt near the Blackbrook Reservoir (Shepshed Leicestershire)Around the end of the second world war) ? Thank you
Archiving the history of Walcott-on-Sea, North Norfolk, at present researching plane crashes during WW2 I have researched the following B24 Liberator 29/4/44 [one killed the pilot] a Mosquito Bomber 13/9/44 [ all crew survived] and Whitley Bomber4/7/41 [all crew survived] I am sure there are more if any one can assist would be grateful.
Thank you for your email earlier in the year. I had starred it so I would be certain to get back to it, but you see how effective that was. I just replied to Mike above, and I would gladly pose those same questions to you. I would really like to see newspaper or local archival accounts. Have you ever seen the wreckage or heard stories about this particular crash? Anything would be most appreciated. Thank you again so much for responding!
Hi there I grew up 1/4 of a mile away from the crash site in Hoxne and still shoot on the land regularly if I can be of any help there are plenty of local story’s about the crash!
Thanks so much for your email. Ian had posted a picture of some of the wreckage from my great uncle’s plane crash. I’ve heard that some of the planes are still located where they fell. I thought perhaps this crash occurred in an area that is far more populated now, and therefore, it may have been moved? Do you know where it may be currently? And you said there are many local stories about the crash? Would the area newspapers have an account of it? Where might I find that info? Thanks so much for writing. Obviously, I don’t check my email daily, but I’ll try to be better now. Thank you again. I’m eager to hear from you again.
Just came across your website….Park Farm, Hoxne. Myself and a colleague have been metal detecting at Park Farm Hoxne for 15 years, in the early days we unearthed numerous fragments from the crashed aircraft, also included were many complete,bent and broken rounds of admonition. Each time we retrieved these items they were handed to the landowner who was aware of the crash site. Because there was a vast amount of small fragments we decided to cease detecting on that field.
Derrick, thank you for your reply. Would you happen to know the name of the landholder where you found the pieces of the plane? Do you know what they did with them? Do you know if there was more than one plane that went down there? Also, would you happen to know the name of the local newspaper there, or a source that may have more documentation of the actual crash? Again, thank you so much for replying. Do you live in this area now?
Have left a previous message which have all been sorted, however need any info re a B17 which crashed off the North Norfolk coast at Walcott-on-Sea, during the WW2
My dad has been talking about the crash that occurred at Curry Wood as he lived in Halstead and remembers it occurring. I have been trying to find information for him but keep drawing a blank. Can anyone help?
I was living in Orpington and in the winter of 1943 / 4 was taken to see a crashed B17 but not near Curry Wood. It was N. of the Halstead- Badgers Mount roundabout road and east of Station Road. It was pointing north. From looking at what records were available of USAAF raids at that approx date (In ? The Mighty 8th ?) I had a hunch that the plane might have come from Podington in Beds, now the site of the race track Santa Pod.I Corresponded with Dearborn about this,but there was no way of getting to the site.
When my grandfather, Rev. Frank Towler and I reached the plane, the guns had been removed. It was possible for me aged 5 to walk on the wing roots. Later I lived in Stonehouse Road and occasionally attended Evensong at St.Margaret’s.
Thank you, John. Unfortunately, my father passed away two years ago so I’m unable to check whether this was the crash to which he was referring. As is often the case, we left it too late to check out what he was saying. Thanks for taking the time to respond to my initial inquiry. Sarah
That’s him! He did a lot of coppicing in that area and had woodland in Halstead. He lived there all his life – literally born and died in the village. He had so many stories about growing up there. What a coincidence that you remember him.
Sarah! This is more about local history than anything else, as an ancestor of mine , name of Atkins, was
in service at Halstead Place in the early nineteenth century. Somewhere we have documentary evidence.
I visited Halstead on Thursday by bus.
I know, isn’t it strange how one link leads to another! Wasn’t Halstead Place owned/built by Barnaby Atkins? My mother used to work there in the 1950s and 60s. My friends’s dad was the headmaster – Norman Sampson. It looks very different nowadays.
Well done for all of this. I thought you might enjoy a different take on a crashlanding site and how it’s flying along now.
When you have time, look at http://www.thanksgivingfield.org and open up the Uplifting Guide and Mission 115Z PDFs. On Facebook.com/ukthanksgivingfield has some additions.
Early next month, the family of our B17s tailgunner will be getting their historic cartridge, in a cheery ceremony at the USAF Academy in Colorado Springs.
Looking for information and photos of the crash(es) that took place Mar. 8, 1944 at Bracon Ash.
Involved 3 P-47’s from the 352nd FG colliding in the overcast. Mostly concerned with the site of the pilot who died, Lt. Earl H. Bond
i am looking for info of 2 b17,s colliding over Braintree Essex around 1945 as i live not far from were the tail section fell the other B17 got back ok .I am looking for any info of details were the tail fell.
I am looking into a crash that occurred during WW2 that happened near Kirkham village. NOT the B24 that crashed on Freckleton school near what is now Bae Warton. Anyone have any details?
Kind regards
Does anyone have any info on the crash of Liberator B24 j “Shazam” at Carr’s Wood Costessey Norfolk on 7th March 1945. It had just taken off from Hethel Airfield on a mission to Germany. I am doing research on the incident and I have a fair amount of material lncluding the names of the crew but any other info would help with my project.
Richard Storr
Sorry I cannot help Richard Storr but I am replying as I live in Walcott on North Norfolk coast and as local historian I researched the crash at 1329hrs on Sat 29th April 1944 of a B24 at Walcott the pilot 2nd Lt John Warner REED aged 26 was killed, all of the crew of 9 bailed out and survived. There is now a memorial to Reed in Walcott. Have you contacted the Neatishead Museum in Norfolk? You state you have a ‘fair amount of material’ re your crash would that include a pic of the crash site ? if so I would like to know your source as I do not have a pic of my site despite many enqs,thanks.
Hi Roger
Thank you for responding to my enquires. I have not contacted the museum at Neatshead although I have visited the Hethel air museum where “Shazam” was based. I do have seven pictures of the crash site which were obtained from the website called To Honor Our Fallen. If you are interested you will find said photos under the name of Shazam’s Navigator Lt Richard Angert. I did a brief enquiry into the Ancestry Website and I see that Lt Reed’s body was repatriated to the USA in 1948 and is buried at Benton Harbor Michigan but you may well know that. I hope to visit the American Air Force part of Norwich library at the Forum this month in the hope that I may get further info on the crew of Shazam I have six crew photos and am still hopeful of obtaining the other four including the pilot 1st Lt Dale E Williams. You live in a very nice part of the Norfolk coast.I am a Norfolk Dumpling myself although I now live in exile at Peterborough. Good luck with your research and I will Keep Lt Reed in mind when I am doing work ok on my Shazam project
Kind Regards
Richard
Thanks for your comments Richard I have checked out that web site ‘Honor the Fallen’ no trace of Lt Reed, so I’ve messaged them asking why as he was awarded the Purple Heart posthumously.Saw your ‘Shazam’ site, any particular reason you are researching the Costessy crash? I am sure every USAAF crash site was photographed.
I would be very grateful if you have the time to look up the crash at Walcott when you go to the Forum,I do have pics of the B24 [Alfred 11] of Reed and all his crew, 8 ejected over Beccles and the co pilot over Ingham.
Hi Roger
I am researching Shazam on behalf of the Costessey Memories Group which is attached to the Costessey general library. They are collating memories from us older residents (or in my case ex-resident) so that these may be recorded for posterity and provide a reminder to future generation of what life was like in the village. As I can recall the accident( I was 5 years old at the time) I thought it would be appropriate to ensure that the sacrifice made by the 10 aircrew should not be forgotten. I have looked up the Walcott crash and I should be more than pleased to see if I can find more info. when I visit the Forum. I was pleased to see that you had photos of all the crew of Alfred 11. Did you obtain these from any particular source? Regarding photos of crash sites there ought to be a central source but I understand that the official pictures of the Shazam crash have been lost and this may have happened to many others.
Richard
Hello Richard,
Thanks for your reply…I obtained all my pics and info from web site B24.net a very good site. My research re 2nd Lt Reed is complete re the crash except for a pic of the crash scene, I have a ongoing enq in the States re a possible nephew which I am waiting on. Best of luck in your research.
Footnote 1] Have a brother who lives in Costessey Michael Wright [ I was adopted ] ever come across him ? 2] Was a police officer in Cambs, Cambridge area, duty at Peterborough Football Club many times I retired in 95.
Hi Roger
I will check the B24 web site and see what I can find. I had an email yesterday from a contact in the states who will send me a picture of one of Shazams crew members so reducing the ones where I haven’t got a photo to three. I will let you know when I have been to the Forum. The name of your brother is familiar to me but I don’t think I knew him. I moved from Norwich in 1964 although I have been going back on a regular basis as most of my remaining family and some friends live there.
Kind regards
Richard
Was the B24 crash site opposite Rookery Farm, Walcott? I lived there from 1955 – 70 and small pieces of aircraft were constantly being unearthed when the field just opposite the farm entrance was ploughed. The recollections of some of the farm workers who worked on the farm at the time of the crash were that the plane crashed on a Saturday lunchtime just as they were finishing work, 29/04/1944 was a Saturday.
There was no mention by them of a fatality. Heavy parts of the plane were said to be deeply embedded in the ground and were not recovered.
have picture of dad with lt. Harold saviers crew,305thbomb group,365th squad,40th wing,1st bomb div,chelverston. dad was a tailgunner and radio operator from 9-1-44to 10-45.best mom remembers he was shot down over dewey france and the French resistance got them back to England. since dad was assigned to different crews when their gunner was unable to fly cant really find imformation. va said records were water damaged so thy were no help. have paperwork and two oakclusters but cant decipher without plane or crewnames the missions he flew dads name William f. Ireland . any help appreciated
Please does anyone have information concerning the aircraft crash in wetheringsett approx 1944. American plane coming into mendlesham airfield was shot down by following German plane. Several of crew were killed. Still unearthing bits of plane from around crash site but would like to know exact crash site if possible and any photos.
Several years ago had a visit from 3 of the surviving crew members who found quite a few bits of their plane on our land that adjoins the crash site.
Just read ‘American Hero’ the biography of Tommy Hitchcock who was instrumental in the development of the P51B Mustang equipped with the Rolls Royce Merlin engine. He was killed testing this aircraft on 18 April 1944 having taken off from an airfield near Salisbury heading for a dive bombing range. Can anyone tell me which was the airfield in question (Boscombe Down, Ibsley?) and which test area (Larkhill, Fordingbridge?). Thanks.
Hi
Do you have any info on B17 crash at Bovingdon herts 1942-3 on a weather check flight, Visited site years ago and found some parts. Believe there may be a memorial there now. Also B24 at cow roast nr Tring Herts 1944.
Hi Roger Bean
I visited the Forum in Norwich on Saturday and made some enquiries about the crash at Walcot but without any success. I did find two pictures of Alfred 11 but there were no photos of the crash site. I am going to the American Cemetery at Madingley this coming weekend and I hope they may be able to suggest where they might be obtained. Unfortunately I didn’t find any thing new about ” Shazam ” at the Forum, but still hopeful that I will get photos of the crew which I need
Richard Storr
Hi Roger. I visited madingly on the 20th May and had a chat with the Superintendent there. He put me in touch with a colleague of his at the War Graves Commission who he felt sure would be able to help me. However I am afraid she was unable to add to the info I have about about Shazam nor did she have any suggestions as to where any photos may be obtained in regards the crash of Alfred 11. It looks as though we have come to the end of the road regarding our research although I will continue to check the internet from time to time just in case any further info. Comes to light. If you have not been to Madingly a visit is highly recommended
Kind regards
Richard
Hi Richard, Thanks for your efforts much appreciated, I was a police officer in the Cambridge area which covered Madingly [ retired 1995 ] and I spent many duties on Madingly Day, and used to call in at various times,very impressive place.
Hi Richard, Thanks for your efforts much appreciated, as a police officer done many duties at Madingly, very impressive place. If ever this way look us up.
Hi again Roger
When I contacted the American Battle Monuments Commission I was told of some books that had been written about American aircraft losses during the war. One was called” Losses of the US 8th and 9th Airforces Volume 5 April 1944 to June 1944 written by Stan D Bishop.It may be worth checking to see if the crash of Alfred 11 is recorded. Sorry I didn’t mention this before.
Regards
Richard
Re; B-24 crash Swansea, South Wales area.
I am following up a story of a B-24 that crashed near Swansea during the war with the loss of all hands. Running short of fuel and in poor visibilty, they headed for what seemed to be an airstrip. As they got there, the fuel eventually ran out. When they attempted to land, they realised that the apparent airstrip was a sandbank and crashed.
I’m sorry that I do not have more information to go with this story. Can you help?
Thanks,
Roger
I’m trying to locate the site of a B17 crash in West Norfolk. The parents of the crew had a wooden church built on the crash site. Its close to a river and is in a small wood. I have walked past it a few years ago so its also close to a public right of way. Has any body got any ideas?
When I was a schoolboy in the 40’s (I,m in my eighties now) and attended Margaretting C E school in Essex. I remember walking home when an American plane in trouble and just at tree hight.Crashed by the A12 near where Ivy Hill hotel is now situated. Ammunition was flying everywhere. I believe the plane was a Dakota with a crew of 5 who sadly all perished. I remember the exceedingly brave firemen breaking into the blazing fuselarge armed with axes in an attempt to save there colleagues. Any information you may have I would be pleased to receive. Regards Mike Farley
I am trying to find out any information about a B-17 Flying Fortress plane crash May 31, 1945. I believe it crashed shortly after take off near Barningham, UK. I read 14 killed and I’d like to know if it included my great uncle Mathew Vinkovich. He was a TEC 5 and died in a plane crash, Killed On Duty but Not In Battle, in England on that date. But I cannot find a list of the crew. Thank you.
I am contacting you as I am currently working on a WWII series and would love to ask you some specific questions about plane crashes from the US Eighth air force.
My father told me about how he met my mother. During the war a stricken plane was coming in to land at Parham Suffolk and crashed just short of the runway. My dad cycled from Great Glemham and my mum cycled from Saxmundham and that is how they met. Do you have any details of this crash?. Thank You
I worked at Glemham House (not Hall) for Lord and Lady Cranbroke and if I recall correctly there is a propellor blade embedded in the ground at the site where a plane crashed as a memorial ( On private land just inside the perimeter wall beside New Road) approx grid reference TM 34193 61657.
This may be the same crash. Runway is approx 1km south east of that point.
Does anyone know anything about a 409th Bomb Squadron, 93rd Bomb Group (Heavy)B-24H-25-FO Liberator ‘Gypsy Queen’ Serial# 42-95024 – possibly crashed on the afternoon of 5 November 1944 at Shipmeadow, Suffolk (between Beccles and Bungay. The plane was returning from a raid on the Karlsruhe railway marshalling yards.
3 of the crew were killed in the crash:
1st Lt Leo F. Baumann – Pilot
2nd Lt Edward T. Dunne – Co-Pilot
Staff Sergeant Leo L. Henry – Nose Gunner
To Sarah Rushen
Ilse and I walked along Beldam Haw on Monday and I looked N. across the crash field which is divided into blocks by barbed wire. and occupied by sheep. Both Halstead pubs shut.
My ancestor Sarah Atkins is no known relative of the Burnaby Atkinses who have a large memorial tombslab in the churchyard. She married a Packman from Knockholt. Mary Packman,s daughter was my Grandma,Janet Towler who studied at Homerton College,Cambridge, and died in 1966 in a house in Stonehouse Road, Halstead.
I remember Grosvenor Aslachsen being Rector. And heard talk of Douglas Blundell, and the people who lived at Colgates.
So many names from the past! Dad used to talk frequently about the Packmans but I cannot recall why, I’m assuming some of your family also lived in Halstead? Dad lived in Beldam Haw in the 1930s and 40s, firstly in no. 36 then no. 1. In fact my grandad had a wood yard at the bottom of the hill and dad had another yard behind Lamberhurst House at the top of the hill. I think it was called Hudds Hill? They were both fencing/wood contractors. I’m afraid I don’t know Stonehouse Road very well. My stepmother lived in Stud Farm opposite St Margaret’s and, apart from a couple of long standing families in Church Road, don’t remember much beyond that. I’m sure you notice the changes in that area.
Colgates is very different to what I remember – a farming residence – but is now much upgraded. The church has had a few incumbents since Ashlachsen, we were married in 1991 by Malcolm Bury but he has sadly died.
Going back to the air crash, dad used to talk about growing up in the war years, I think our children would be taken away from us if we allowed them to do some of the things he and his friends got up to!! His godson still lives in Curry Wood – Gerald Brooks – another well known and long-established Halstead family.
Anyway, I have digressed away from the point of this site but it is interesting to catch up with people associated with the area.
My Uncle and Aunt, Geoffrey and Mollie Pain, and I lived at “Edgehill” Stonehouse Road,Halstead, 1954 – 1968. Before that they were at “oakdene” on Rushmore Hill,Knockholt. Your father worked in the woods at Randles Lane,and my aunt told me his name. Granpa and Granma also lived at Edgehill. Granpa Towler sometimes officiated at Evensong at the Otford Lane Mission., after 1954. I used to have to walk to the pharmacy at Halstead to get Granma’s prescriptions. Dr Wigram was our GP. She lived in Knockholt. My aunt was active in Knockholt WI. She and Geoffrey went to services at Knockholt Parish Church regularly.
During WW2 my aunt had had a colleague in the Day Nursery in Orpington, called Walton, whose father had the corn merchant business in Halstead. ? shop at Park Corner which now sells logs and venison). Walton rang my aunt in Orpington, one night to say the plane had come down …(hinT: I’d be interested!).
B17 ‘Buttercup’ 306th Bomb Group based at Thurleigh crashed Latchford Oxon Nov 13th 1943, no survivors of 10 crew (all names known). Seeking any official details of wreckage site, location, photos. Have been to 306th Museum but no details held. Just starting quest to contact any living relatives and invite to memorial plaque unveiling in our village.
The details you have provided don’t match anything in ‘The Mighty eighth War Diary’ book. If you have the tail number of the aircraft that would be helpful in identifying the wreck details.
The weather was very thundery which brought down several aircraft including 42-31038, also from 306BG, which came down nr. Princess Risborough.
here’s the link. https://aircrewremembrancesociety3.com/Aircraft-Losses/USAAF-Losses/U.S.A.A.F.Losses-1943/page-49/
Best wishes,
Roger
Could you please advise me if 2 USAAF bombers collided in foggy weather in approx 1942 near to the village of Earls Barton Northamptonshie. My late Mother remembered being at infant school and the explosion and my late Grandfather helped clear the wreckage. 16. Or 18 air crew lost their lives. My mother had a ring incorporating the plexiglass that my grandfather had made for her in memory of these men. Thank you
Hi, do you have any information on any B17’s from the 95th bomb Group, I am a committee member from this group and would like to research any information you have? Thank you Andy
Hi Andy, sorry for late reply, have just returned from holiday. Will have a look and drop you a line if I find anything.
Ian
Hello, one site after another has led me here. I don’t think this is the correct place because your dates are different, but I’m looking for more information about the crash where my great uncle lost his life, and I really don’t know where else to look. A family member recently received a letter from the Cambridge Cemetery. The pertinent part of the letter is as follows:
Please see below the information that we have on the crash which involved SSgt Logan.
His aircraft took off from Glatton at 14:19 hrs on an operational mission. Pilot was flying on instruments in clouds when the aircraft hit violent prop wash, throwing the aircraft into a dive. The pilot tried to recover too fast, causing too much stress on the tail section which broke off at the tail wheel. The aircraft crashed at 14:55 hrs at Park Farm, Hoxne, Suffolk. Seven from this crew were killed on this mission and 3 returned. They were all temporarily buried at the temporary cemetery in Cambridge, and 3 from this crew remain here in the permanent cemetery, 4 including SSgt Logan were repatriated back to the United States.
The info I have is that Uncle Roy died April 21, 1944. He was a SSGT in the 748 USAAF Bomb Squadron. My assumption is that the crash must have occurred the same day, but that may be wrong. I would most especially love to know the names of the three survivors, though they may be gone now. Any help would be most greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Sandy
Hi Sandy,
That part of the country is not the geographical area I usually cover, but I will take a look at the resources and books I have this evening and will get back to you if I find anything. Will also have a think about where else you might be able to find the information you need.
Kind regards,
Ian
Ian,
Thank you so much. Any further information you could provide would be greatly appreciated. One other thing, in doing a basic computer search for the crash site, Park Farm, Hoxne, Suffolk, I was unable to find it. Do you know…is Park Farm an actual farm, a park, or a village?
Thank you very much for responding to my inquiry. I love being able to locate the pieces of the puzzle and watch the picture form.
Eagerly awaiting your response,
Sandy
Hi Sandy,
I am unsure as to quite what info you have already but the details here were found on the internet. I have very few books detailing losses in that area, particularly US losses, but I knew of a few places to look online!
The aircraft was a B-17G Flying Fortress serial number 42-97236. It was with the 457th Bomb Group and was on a bombing raid to Merseberg near Leipzig in Germany on 21 April 1944, probably to attack the oil refinery there.
The bombers had been recalled due to bad weather but 42-97236 “while climbing into formation, encountered a heavy downdraft and the plane went into a dive. The pilot overcorrected in trying to pull out and the plane broke in half near the bomb bay. Parts of the plane fell in the vicinity of the field at Glatton. Four of the crew were able to bail out and survived. The remainder were killed.â€
Note that source, the 457th Bomb Group Association, mentions there being 4 survivors not 3. The extra survivor is listed as your uncle, so we can safely conclude that is incorrect and also that your uncle Roy died in the crash so the date you have is of both the crash and his death. It seems likely the survivors were wearing parachutes and were able to get out of the aircraft and open them.
The crew listing then is probably;
Lt Owen B. Coffman, pilot, killed.
Lt Stewart Barnes, co-pilot, killed
Lt Joseph J. Peacock, navigator, killed
Lt Lowell D. Baker, bombardier, killed
Sgt Leroy L. Logan, engineer / upper turret gunner, killed
Sgt Joseph T. Paddock, radio operator, killed
Sgt Morris R. Walker, left waist gunner, survived
Sgt Donald L. Moore, right waist gunner, killed
Sgt James C. Hilty, ball turret gunner, survived
Sgt John P. Medica, tail gunner, survived.
The American Air Museum in Britain has a different listing. Although it notes that Sergeant Logan was one of the fatalities, it lists the 3 survivors as including a radio operator called Lloyd Larson and yet makes no mention of Lt Peacock. However, Lt Peacock is certainly listed elsewhere as having been killed on 21 April 1944, so it is probable the museum has that detail incorrectly recorded but the detail about your uncle is correct. These sort of discrepancies are not that uncommon.
The aircraft crashed in farmland near Park Farm which is about one mile east of the village of Hoxne in Suffolk. Note also that the entry from the 457 Bomb Group Assn states that the aircraft broke up with bits falling in the fields near Glatton. This is bound to be a typo, as Hoxne is over 60 miles from Glatton, which was the bomb group’s base. RAF Glatton is about 6 miles south of the town of Peterborough.
Hoxne and Park Farm on Ordnance Survey mapping
And Park Farm on Google maps
Below; photo from the 457 Bomb Group Association showing some of the wreckage. The man is holding up part of the tail section. Looking at the ground rising beyond and the line of trees in the middle ground, the crash site may well be in the big field to the right of the farm, with this photo looking east. Maybe.
American Air Museum
457 Bomb Group Association
Aviation Archeological Research and Investigation On this page search by pressing (as you can on any page or document) Ctrl + F and in the search bar type 42-97236; it will take you to the entry for this aircraft.
Accident-Report.com Do the same as above. You should be able to purchase a full accident report from this site.
RAF Glatton with some photos from when 457 BG was based there.
Incidentally a couple of years ago I happened to be in a WW2 vintage aircraft flying over Cambridgeshire (RAF Glatton is just north of here) and the pilot took us over the American Cemetery. In this short video the pilot refers to it at about one and a half minutes in and we do a fly past. Though you can’t see the cemetery in this view you will get an idea of the country your uncle flew over during the war. I am in the front seat by the way.
Hope this answers your immediate questions and provides a basis for further research.
Best regards,
Ian
Ian,
I can’t thank you enough. You’ve provided me with a wealth of information, and I’m eager to go through it more thoroughly. I could have searched for many more years and not found the wonderful sources you did. The footage of you flying was terrific as well. In some small way it’s comforting to see the area where he must have flown many times. I am so grateful that I’m nearly at a loss for words. This information means a great deal to me. It seems that my intuition led me to write the correct person after all.
Thank you from the US!
Sandy
Hi Sandy,
No problem, glad it has answered some questions for you. Sometimes the info is out there and it all opens up and its enjoyable to pirce the story together when it does (and there is more to be found I am sure, not least ironing out the discrepancies). Other times – such the as the request about the P-47 above – searches all end up pointing to the same very limited resource.
Ian
Ian,
I did try to look up the three survivors, and I was very surprised to see that James C. Hilty (listed as a survivor) actually died on that day, too. I saw a picture of the headstone of his grave on findagrave.com. It even listed his rank and squadron number (748). That’s why I knew I had the correct person. Even though there is a wealth of information online, it’s always good, like you have mentioned, to note that there are mistakes to wade through as well. I’m eager to keep going.
Thanks again,
Sandy
Interesting to read that Sandy. If you find out any more you can add it here and then there will at least be a source of info for anyone else looking for it. Best of luck with your researches, hope to hear more. If ever I get down that part of the country I shall try to pin down the exact spot and add a photo of it.
Best of luck!
Ian
Can you gie me any information on the crash of a USAAF P47 Razor back THunderbolt near the Blackbrook Reservoir (Shepshed Leicestershire)Around the end of the second world war) ? Thank you
Hi John, I’m afraid I have nothing more than what is in this thread;
http://forum.keypublishing.com/showthread.php?73936-P-47-Thunderbolt
Ian
Archiving the history of Walcott-on-Sea, North Norfolk, at present researching plane crashes during WW2 I have researched the following B24 Liberator 29/4/44 [one killed the pilot] a Mosquito Bomber 13/9/44 [ all crew survived] and Whitley Bomber4/7/41 [all crew survived] I am sure there are more if any one can assist would be grateful.
Hi. My father grew up in Hoxne, Suffolk and I still live in the area. Can I help?
Claire,
Thank you for your email earlier in the year. I had starred it so I would be certain to get back to it, but you see how effective that was. I just replied to Mike above, and I would gladly pose those same questions to you. I would really like to see newspaper or local archival accounts. Have you ever seen the wreckage or heard stories about this particular crash? Anything would be most appreciated. Thank you again so much for responding!
Hi there I grew up 1/4 of a mile away from the crash site in Hoxne and still shoot on the land regularly if I can be of any help there are plenty of local story’s about the crash!
Mike,
Thanks so much for your email. Ian had posted a picture of some of the wreckage from my great uncle’s plane crash. I’ve heard that some of the planes are still located where they fell. I thought perhaps this crash occurred in an area that is far more populated now, and therefore, it may have been moved? Do you know where it may be currently? And you said there are many local stories about the crash? Would the area newspapers have an account of it? Where might I find that info? Thanks so much for writing. Obviously, I don’t check my email daily, but I’ll try to be better now. Thank you again. I’m eager to hear from you again.
Just came across your website….Park Farm, Hoxne. Myself and a colleague have been metal detecting at Park Farm Hoxne for 15 years, in the early days we unearthed numerous fragments from the crashed aircraft, also included were many complete,bent and broken rounds of admonition. Each time we retrieved these items they were handed to the landowner who was aware of the crash site. Because there was a vast amount of small fragments we decided to cease detecting on that field.
Derrick, thank you for your reply. Would you happen to know the name of the landholder where you found the pieces of the plane? Do you know what they did with them? Do you know if there was more than one plane that went down there? Also, would you happen to know the name of the local newspaper there, or a source that may have more documentation of the actual crash? Again, thank you so much for replying. Do you live in this area now?
Hi
One B17 certainly crashed at Home Farm Hoxne. Engine and parts at Parham Airfield Museum.
Have left a previous message which have all been sorted, however need any info re a B17 which crashed off the North Norfolk coast at Walcott-on-Sea, during the WW2
Would any one have any info on a B-17 that came down and crashed landed near curry wood Halstead kent.
My dad has been talking about the crash that occurred at Curry Wood as he lived in Halstead and remembers it occurring. I have been trying to find information for him but keep drawing a blank. Can anyone help?
I was living in Orpington and in the winter of 1943 / 4 was taken to see a crashed B17 but not near Curry Wood. It was N. of the Halstead- Badgers Mount roundabout road and east of Station Road. It was pointing north. From looking at what records were available of USAAF raids at that approx date (In ? The Mighty 8th ?) I had a hunch that the plane might have come from Podington in Beds, now the site of the race track Santa Pod.I Corresponded with Dearborn about this,but there was no way of getting to the site.
When my grandfather, Rev. Frank Towler and I reached the plane, the guns had been removed. It was possible for me aged 5 to walk on the wing roots. Later I lived in Stonehouse Road and occasionally attended Evensong at St.Margaret’s.
John Towler
Thank you, John. Unfortunately, my father passed away two years ago so I’m unable to check whether this was the crash to which he was referring. As is often the case, we left it too late to check out what he was saying. Thanks for taking the time to respond to my initial inquiry. Sarah
I remember Mr Rushen, who coppiced the wood by Randles Lane. He was someone I saw when I was staying in Knockholt. It was sad to hear of his death.
That’s him! He did a lot of coppicing in that area and had woodland in Halstead. He lived there all his life – literally born and died in the village. He had so many stories about growing up there. What a coincidence that you remember him.
Sarah! This is more about local history than anything else, as an ancestor of mine , name of Atkins, was
in service at Halstead Place in the early nineteenth century. Somewhere we have documentary evidence.
I visited Halstead on Thursday by bus.
John
I know, isn’t it strange how one link leads to another! Wasn’t Halstead Place owned/built by Barnaby Atkins? My mother used to work there in the 1950s and 60s. My friends’s dad was the headmaster – Norman Sampson. It looks very different nowadays.
Well done for all of this. I thought you might enjoy a different take on a crashlanding site and how it’s flying along now.
When you have time, look at http://www.thanksgivingfield.org and open up the Uplifting Guide and Mission 115Z PDFs. On Facebook.com/ukthanksgivingfield has some additions.
Early next month, the family of our B17s tailgunner will be getting their historic cartridge, in a cheery ceremony at the USAF Academy in Colorado Springs.
Happy landings!
Hi Hugh, yeah that’s lovely. Used to work not that far from you at Heathrow.
I found a detailed reference to 42-3351 though there are not many! I take it you know of this page? Has crew list and an account of the crash.
Hi i would like to know a little more.about the 2 B17 that collided over Braintree Essex UK 1945 10 march
Looking for information and photos of the crash(es) that took place Mar. 8, 1944 at Bracon Ash.
Involved 3 P-47’s from the 352nd FG colliding in the overcast. Mostly concerned with the site of the pilot who died, Lt. Earl H. Bond
Did you find out about crash site?never heard of this one……paul
i am looking for info of 2 b17,s colliding over Braintree Essex around 1945 as i live not far from were the tail section fell the other B17 got back ok .I am looking for any info of details were the tail fell.
I am looking into a crash that occurred during WW2 that happened near Kirkham village. NOT the B24 that crashed on Freckleton school near what is now Bae Warton. Anyone have any details?
Kind regards
Does anybody know of any record of a B17 stationed at Parham crashing near Framlington Castle?
Does anyone have any info on the crash of Liberator B24 j “Shazam” at Carr’s Wood Costessey Norfolk on 7th March 1945. It had just taken off from Hethel Airfield on a mission to Germany. I am doing research on the incident and I have a fair amount of material lncluding the names of the crew but any other info would help with my project.
Richard Storr
Sorry I cannot help Richard Storr but I am replying as I live in Walcott on North Norfolk coast and as local historian I researched the crash at 1329hrs on Sat 29th April 1944 of a B24 at Walcott the pilot 2nd Lt John Warner REED aged 26 was killed, all of the crew of 9 bailed out and survived. There is now a memorial to Reed in Walcott. Have you contacted the Neatishead Museum in Norfolk? You state you have a ‘fair amount of material’ re your crash would that include a pic of the crash site ? if so I would like to know your source as I do not have a pic of my site despite many enqs,thanks.
Hi Roger
Thank you for responding to my enquires. I have not contacted the museum at Neatshead although I have visited the Hethel air museum where “Shazam” was based. I do have seven pictures of the crash site which were obtained from the website called To Honor Our Fallen. If you are interested you will find said photos under the name of Shazam’s Navigator Lt Richard Angert. I did a brief enquiry into the Ancestry Website and I see that Lt Reed’s body was repatriated to the USA in 1948 and is buried at Benton Harbor Michigan but you may well know that. I hope to visit the American Air Force part of Norwich library at the Forum this month in the hope that I may get further info on the crew of Shazam I have six crew photos and am still hopeful of obtaining the other four including the pilot 1st Lt Dale E Williams. You live in a very nice part of the Norfolk coast.I am a Norfolk Dumpling myself although I now live in exile at Peterborough. Good luck with your research and I will Keep Lt Reed in mind when I am doing work ok on my Shazam project
Kind Regards
Richard
Thanks for your comments Richard I have checked out that web site ‘Honor the Fallen’ no trace of Lt Reed, so I’ve messaged them asking why as he was awarded the Purple Heart posthumously.Saw your ‘Shazam’ site, any particular reason you are researching the Costessy crash? I am sure every USAAF crash site was photographed.
I would be very grateful if you have the time to look up the crash at Walcott when you go to the Forum,I do have pics of the B24 [Alfred 11] of Reed and all his crew, 8 ejected over Beccles and the co pilot over Ingham.
Hi Roger
I am researching Shazam on behalf of the Costessey Memories Group which is attached to the Costessey general library. They are collating memories from us older residents (or in my case ex-resident) so that these may be recorded for posterity and provide a reminder to future generation of what life was like in the village. As I can recall the accident( I was 5 years old at the time) I thought it would be appropriate to ensure that the sacrifice made by the 10 aircrew should not be forgotten. I have looked up the Walcott crash and I should be more than pleased to see if I can find more info. when I visit the Forum. I was pleased to see that you had photos of all the crew of Alfred 11. Did you obtain these from any particular source? Regarding photos of crash sites there ought to be a central source but I understand that the official pictures of the Shazam crash have been lost and this may have happened to many others.
Richard
Hello Richard,
Thanks for your reply…I obtained all my pics and info from web site B24.net a very good site. My research re 2nd Lt Reed is complete re the crash except for a pic of the crash scene, I have a ongoing enq in the States re a possible nephew which I am waiting on. Best of luck in your research.
Footnote 1] Have a brother who lives in Costessey Michael Wright [ I was adopted ] ever come across him ? 2] Was a police officer in Cambs, Cambridge area, duty at Peterborough Football Club many times I retired in 95.
Hi Roger
I will check the B24 web site and see what I can find. I had an email yesterday from a contact in the states who will send me a picture of one of Shazams crew members so reducing the ones where I haven’t got a photo to three. I will let you know when I have been to the Forum. The name of your brother is familiar to me but I don’t think I knew him. I moved from Norwich in 1964 although I have been going back on a regular basis as most of my remaining family and some friends live there.
Kind regards
Richard
Hello Roger,
Was the B24 crash site opposite Rookery Farm, Walcott? I lived there from 1955 – 70 and small pieces of aircraft were constantly being unearthed when the field just opposite the farm entrance was ploughed. The recollections of some of the farm workers who worked on the farm at the time of the crash were that the plane crashed on a Saturday lunchtime just as they were finishing work, 29/04/1944 was a Saturday.
There was no mention by them of a fatality. Heavy parts of the plane were said to be deeply embedded in the ground and were not recovered.
Brian Farrow
have picture of dad with lt. Harold saviers crew,305thbomb group,365th squad,40th wing,1st bomb div,chelverston. dad was a tailgunner and radio operator from 9-1-44to 10-45.best mom remembers he was shot down over dewey france and the French resistance got them back to England. since dad was assigned to different crews when their gunner was unable to fly cant really find imformation. va said records were water damaged so thy were no help. have paperwork and two oakclusters but cant decipher without plane or crewnames the missions he flew dads name William f. Ireland . any help appreciated
Please does anyone have information concerning the aircraft crash in wetheringsett approx 1944. American plane coming into mendlesham airfield was shot down by following German plane. Several of crew were killed. Still unearthing bits of plane from around crash site but would like to know exact crash site if possible and any photos.
Several years ago had a visit from 3 of the surviving crew members who found quite a few bits of their plane on our land that adjoins the crash site.
Forgot to say crash site was in the village of Wetheringsett, Suffolk
Just read ‘American Hero’ the biography of Tommy Hitchcock who was instrumental in the development of the P51B Mustang equipped with the Rolls Royce Merlin engine. He was killed testing this aircraft on 18 April 1944 having taken off from an airfield near Salisbury heading for a dive bombing range. Can anyone tell me which was the airfield in question (Boscombe Down, Ibsley?) and which test area (Larkhill, Fordingbridge?). Thanks.
Hi
Do you have any info on B17 crash at Bovingdon herts 1942-3 on a weather check flight, Visited site years ago and found some parts. Believe there may be a memorial there now. Also B24 at cow roast nr Tring Herts 1944.
Have full info on B17 at Cow Roast
Hi Roger Bean
I visited the Forum in Norwich on Saturday and made some enquiries about the crash at Walcot but without any success. I did find two pictures of Alfred 11 but there were no photos of the crash site. I am going to the American Cemetery at Madingley this coming weekend and I hope they may be able to suggest where they might be obtained. Unfortunately I didn’t find any thing new about ” Shazam ” at the Forum, but still hopeful that I will get photos of the crew which I need
Richard Storr
Thanks Richard for your time and efforts..please keep me informed. Roger Bean
Hi Roger. I visited madingly on the 20th May and had a chat with the Superintendent there. He put me in touch with a colleague of his at the War Graves Commission who he felt sure would be able to help me. However I am afraid she was unable to add to the info I have about about Shazam nor did she have any suggestions as to where any photos may be obtained in regards the crash of Alfred 11. It looks as though we have come to the end of the road regarding our research although I will continue to check the internet from time to time just in case any further info. Comes to light. If you have not been to Madingly a visit is highly recommended
Kind regards
Richard
Hi Richard, Thanks for your efforts much appreciated, I was a police officer in the Cambridge area which covered Madingly [ retired 1995 ] and I spent many duties on Madingly Day, and used to call in at various times,very impressive place.
Hi Richard, Thanks for your efforts much appreciated, as a police officer done many duties at Madingly, very impressive place. If ever this way look us up.
Hi again Roger
When I contacted the American Battle Monuments Commission I was told of some books that had been written about American aircraft losses during the war. One was called” Losses of the US 8th and 9th Airforces Volume 5 April 1944 to June 1944 written by Stan D Bishop.It may be worth checking to see if the crash of Alfred 11 is recorded. Sorry I didn’t mention this before.
Regards
Richard
Thanks Richard will make enqs re the book you mention.
Hi Richard, Made contact with Stan Bishop, the only info he has is what I have
already, no pictures.
Re; B-24 crash Swansea, South Wales area.
I am following up a story of a B-24 that crashed near Swansea during the war with the loss of all hands. Running short of fuel and in poor visibilty, they headed for what seemed to be an airstrip. As they got there, the fuel eventually ran out. When they attempted to land, they realised that the apparent airstrip was a sandbank and crashed.
I’m sorry that I do not have more information to go with this story. Can you help?
Thanks,
Roger
I’m afraid I have nothing on that one Roger, maybe someone else has?
Thanks. I will keep looking.
Roger
I’m trying to locate the site of a B17 crash in West Norfolk. The parents of the crew had a wooden church built on the crash site. Its close to a river and is in a small wood. I have walked past it a few years ago so its also close to a public right of way. Has any body got any ideas?
When I was a schoolboy in the 40’s (I,m in my eighties now) and attended Margaretting C E school in Essex. I remember walking home when an American plane in trouble and just at tree hight.Crashed by the A12 near where Ivy Hill hotel is now situated. Ammunition was flying everywhere. I believe the plane was a Dakota with a crew of 5 who sadly all perished. I remember the exceedingly brave firemen breaking into the blazing fuselarge armed with axes in an attempt to save there colleagues. Any information you may have I would be pleased to receive. Regards Mike Farley
I am trying to find out any information about a B-17 Flying Fortress plane crash May 31, 1945. I believe it crashed shortly after take off near Barningham, UK. I read 14 killed and I’d like to know if it included my great uncle Mathew Vinkovich. He was a TEC 5 and died in a plane crash, Killed On Duty but Not In Battle, in England on that date. But I cannot find a list of the crew. Thank you.
see
https://www.aviationarchaeology.com/src/AARmonthly/May1945O.htm
Shows
31st may 1945 B-17G 43-38919 561BS 388BG station 136 8AF KCR(killed in crash) Pilot Metz, Walter B ENGland Barningham/ 1mi SE
can order crash report from site that will probably list crew and likely other casulties
My Uncle Jack Anderson, who was a TEC 5 appears to have died in that same crash. Have found following info:
https://b17flyingfortress.de/en/b17/43-38919/
This is a british site and the link has a photo of the aircraft in question. (Pre-Crash):
http://www.americanairmuseum.com/aircraft/12924
I have been to the Aviation Archaeology web site mentioned and will probably order the crash report.
Hello,
I am contacting you as I am currently working on a WWII series and would love to ask you some specific questions about plane crashes from the US Eighth air force.
Would you be able to get in touch?
Many thanks!
Marion
My father told me about how he met my mother. During the war a stricken plane was coming in to land at Parham Suffolk and crashed just short of the runway. My dad cycled from Great Glemham and my mum cycled from Saxmundham and that is how they met. Do you have any details of this crash?. Thank You
Sorry, I don’t have any books which cover that part of the world,Paul, but someone viewing this page might.
I worked at Glemham House (not Hall) for Lord and Lady Cranbroke and if I recall correctly there is a propellor blade embedded in the ground at the site where a plane crashed as a memorial ( On private land just inside the perimeter wall beside New Road) approx grid reference TM 34193 61657.
This may be the same crash. Runway is approx 1km south east of that point.
Museum may be able to help http://www.parhamairfieldmuseum.co.uk/
pictures of that crash here
http://www.parhamairfieldmuseum.co.uk/390th-bomb-group/interesting-information-and-facts/
Does anyone know about a P38 that crashed in Water Lane, Cobham, Surrey on 16th March 1944?
Does anyone know anything about a 409th Bomb Squadron, 93rd Bomb Group (Heavy)B-24H-25-FO Liberator ‘Gypsy Queen’ Serial# 42-95024 – possibly crashed on the afternoon of 5 November 1944 at Shipmeadow, Suffolk (between Beccles and Bungay. The plane was returning from a raid on the Karlsruhe railway marshalling yards.
3 of the crew were killed in the crash:
1st Lt Leo F. Baumann – Pilot
2nd Lt Edward T. Dunne – Co-Pilot
Staff Sergeant Leo L. Henry – Nose Gunner
Any information will be useful.
Thanks!
I have to inform you that my Husband, Richard Storr died in April 2020 and therefore can no longer give you any more information for your research.
Very sorry to hear of your loss, Hazel. Thank you for letting us know.
Ian
To Sarah Rushen
Ilse and I walked along Beldam Haw on Monday and I looked N. across the crash field which is divided into blocks by barbed wire. and occupied by sheep. Both Halstead pubs shut.
My ancestor Sarah Atkins is no known relative of the Burnaby Atkinses who have a large memorial tombslab in the churchyard. She married a Packman from Knockholt. Mary Packman,s daughter was my Grandma,Janet Towler who studied at Homerton College,Cambridge, and died in 1966 in a house in Stonehouse Road, Halstead.
I remember Grosvenor Aslachsen being Rector. And heard talk of Douglas Blundell, and the people who lived at Colgates.
So many names from the past! Dad used to talk frequently about the Packmans but I cannot recall why, I’m assuming some of your family also lived in Halstead? Dad lived in Beldam Haw in the 1930s and 40s, firstly in no. 36 then no. 1. In fact my grandad had a wood yard at the bottom of the hill and dad had another yard behind Lamberhurst House at the top of the hill. I think it was called Hudds Hill? They were both fencing/wood contractors. I’m afraid I don’t know Stonehouse Road very well. My stepmother lived in Stud Farm opposite St Margaret’s and, apart from a couple of long standing families in Church Road, don’t remember much beyond that. I’m sure you notice the changes in that area.
Colgates is very different to what I remember – a farming residence – but is now much upgraded. The church has had a few incumbents since Ashlachsen, we were married in 1991 by Malcolm Bury but he has sadly died.
Going back to the air crash, dad used to talk about growing up in the war years, I think our children would be taken away from us if we allowed them to do some of the things he and his friends got up to!! His godson still lives in Curry Wood – Gerald Brooks – another well known and long-established Halstead family.
Anyway, I have digressed away from the point of this site but it is interesting to catch up with people associated with the area.
My Uncle and Aunt, Geoffrey and Mollie Pain, and I lived at “Edgehill” Stonehouse Road,Halstead, 1954 – 1968. Before that they were at “oakdene” on Rushmore Hill,Knockholt. Your father worked in the woods at Randles Lane,and my aunt told me his name. Granpa and Granma also lived at Edgehill. Granpa Towler sometimes officiated at Evensong at the Otford Lane Mission., after 1954. I used to have to walk to the pharmacy at Halstead to get Granma’s prescriptions. Dr Wigram was our GP. She lived in Knockholt. My aunt was active in Knockholt WI. She and Geoffrey went to services at Knockholt Parish Church regularly.
During WW2 my aunt had had a colleague in the Day Nursery in Orpington, called Walton, whose father had the corn merchant business in Halstead. ? shop at Park Corner which now sells logs and venison). Walton rang my aunt in Orpington, one night to say the plane had come down …(hinT: I’d be interested!).
B17 ‘Buttercup’ 306th Bomb Group based at Thurleigh crashed Latchford Oxon Nov 13th 1943, no survivors of 10 crew (all names known). Seeking any official details of wreckage site, location, photos. Have been to 306th Museum but no details held. Just starting quest to contact any living relatives and invite to memorial plaque unveiling in our village.
The details you have provided don’t match anything in ‘The Mighty eighth War Diary’ book. If you have the tail number of the aircraft that would be helpful in identifying the wreck details.
The weather was very thundery which brought down several aircraft including 42-31038, also from 306BG, which came down nr. Princess Risborough.
here’s the link.
https://aircrewremembrancesociety3.com/Aircraft-Losses/USAAF-Losses/U.S.A.A.F.Losses-1943/page-49/
Best wishes,
Roger
Could you please advise me if 2 USAAF bombers collided in foggy weather in approx 1942 near to the village of Earls Barton Northamptonshie. My late Mother remembered being at infant school and the explosion and my late Grandfather helped clear the wreckage. 16. Or 18 air crew lost their lives. My mother had a ring incorporating the plexiglass that my grandfather had made for her in memory of these men. Thank you