Reason for Loss |
On Monday 20th September, 2 x 1000lb bombs exploded accidentally some 150 yards from the squadron dispersal and several of the squadron’s aircraft were damaged. The damage to most was very slight but one aircraft WK133 received more significant damage. One airman from the squadron, LAC Hopkins, together with two airmen from 115 Squadron, distinguished themselves by rescuing chief technician Bawley, the tractor driver. The three airmen were approximately 200 yards from the scene of the accident but within 30 seconds they had chief technician Bawley clear of the tractor, this regardless of the fact that there were four more unexploded 1000lb bombs lying on the peritrack and that shrapnel was falling about them whilst they were running towards the tractor.In spite of their efforts, chief technician Bawley died after being admitted to King’s Lynn Hospital. |