Site last updated 1st February 2012

Peak District Air Accident Research

Martin Baltimore Mk.I AG689 of the Empire Central Flying School, crashed shortly after take off from Rednal Airfield near Oswestry at Tedsmore Hall on the 16th September 1944.

Crew / Passengers	Rank - if applicable	Position e.g. Pilot	Status
David Scott Sherman Wilkerson	Wing Commander	Passenger	Killed
A. Packard	Lieutenant Commander (USN)	?	Injured
Frederick William Westley AFC	Squadron Leader	Pilot	OK
Jeffery	Squadron Leader (RCAF)	?	Injured
James Wilfred Cross	Major (SAAF)	Passenger	Killed

All the crew were as far as I know all qualified pilots

This memorial was placed close to the crash site of the Baltimore. The aircraft crashed in the woods behind the memorial

This is the plaque that is fixed to the cross, it reads:

WING COMMANDER D.S.S WILKERSON DSO, DFC, RAFVR

DIED HERE FOR HIS COUNTRY ON 16 SEPTEMBER 1944 AGED 27 YEARS

A survivor of 46 hazardous operations against the enemy as pilot of a Halifax bomber, he was tragically killed when travelling as passenger in a Baltimore aircraft on a domestic flight which crashed into this hillside, after taking off from Rednal airfield. He was an inspired leader who possessed the qualities of humanity, good humour and understanding, which endeared him to everybody who had the privilege of knowing him. The United States Navy posthumously awarded him the Silver Star for Gallantry

HUGH CAWDRON MADE AND ERECTED THIS CROSS IN MEMORY OF HIS FRIEND AND BROTHER SCOUT

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