In memory of the crew of LM475

[kookabat]

Seventy years ago tonight the crew of LM475, B for Baker of 467 Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force, took off from Waddington for what would turn out to be their final flight. They failed to return from a raid on Lille, one of twelve aircraft lost that night.

Killed in action were these six airmen:

Bomb Aimer, Sergeant Jerry Parker, RAFVR:


Flight Engineer, Sergeant Ken Tabor, RAFVR:


Navigator, Warrant Officer Jack Purcell, RAAF:


Wireless Operator, Flight Sergeant Dale Johnston, RAAF:


Mid-Upper Gunner, Sergeant Eric Hill, RAFVR:


Rear Gunner, Flight Sergeant Gil Pate, RAAF:


The only survivor of the crew - and indeed the only survivor from the twelve aircraft lost that night - was the pilot, Squadron Leader Phil Smith, who evaded capture and returned to the UK and eventually Australia. Phil died in 2003:



We WILL remember them.

Adam

[ME453]

And well done Adam for all the effort that you have put into making sure the sacrifice of these brave chaps is never forgotten.

Max

[PAFG]

Thank you, Adam. A very quiet and moving tribute. We will remember them.

Richard