Bristol Beaufighter T.F. Mk.X NE309 of No.304 Ferry Training Unit, RAF, flew into high ground on Sunderland Hill near Bruichladdich on the Isle of Islay on the 1st January 1944.
|
Crew / Passengers |
Rank - If Applicable |
Position e.g. Pilot |
Status |
|
Archibald Neville Book |
Flying Officer (RCAF) |
Pilot |
Killed |
|
Francis Edward Osbaldeston |
Flying Officer | Observer | Injured |
The two crew of NE309 were carrying out a local flying exercise from RAF Port Ellen when their aircraft struck the ground on the boggy low moorland of Sunderland Hill near Bruichladdich. The pilot was killed but the Observer was able to escape with only abrasions and shock.
Four days later the Pilot was buried at Bowmore Parish Churchyard with full military honours, it was reported that a number of local civilians also attended the funeral service.
Myself with the largest remaining piece of the aircraft, as can be seen the crash site lies on a fairly flat area.
Nearby there is a suspiciously rectangular depression which looks as though it could be the work of the Salvage party who may have buried the burnt remains.