Page 35 - Cadet Review Autumn 2024

UNVEILING
OF MEMORIAL
IN KIRTON IN
LINDSEY TO
HONOUR SIX
AIRMEN OF
WWII HALIFAX
BOMBER
CRASH
By Civilian Instructor Chris Wood
24th August 2024 – In a solemn and poignant ceremony, a memorial was unveiled in Kirton in Lindsey, Lincolnshire, to commemorate the tragic loss of six airmen who perished when their Halifax bomber crashed near the village during World War II. The event, attended by local dignitaries, residents, and cadets from 2222 (Brigg) Squadron, served as
a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom.
The tragedy occurred in 1944 when the bomber, returning from an ‘Operation Bullseye’ mission, started experiencing engine failure, possibly due to being low on fuel. Despite the crew's best efforts, the bomber clipped a local police house and crashed in a field nearby field, claiming the lives of six of
the seven brave aircrew. The newly unveiled, but
The memorial serves as a lasting tribute to the bravery of the crew.
long-overdue memorial, features a plaque with the names of the fallen airmen and a model of the Halifax bomber.
The ceremony began with a parade by 2222(Brigg) Squadron, a fitting tribute to the discipline and dedication of the fallen airmen. The cadets, CWO Louis Byrne, Sergeant Libby Napier, Corporal Erin Porter, with Cadets Willow Chappell and Meredith Porter, proudly revealed the memorial by removing the Union Jack that draped it. They laid a poppy for each of the airmen and stood during a moment of silence as they represented the next generation of young people committed to upholding the values of the Royal Air Force.
The memorial serves as a lasting tribute to the bravery of the crew and a reminder of the cost of war. It ensures that their story will be remembered by the Kirton, North Lincolnshire community and beyond.
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