Operation: Training

Date: 10th September 1941 (Wednesday)

Unit: No. 61 Operational Training Unit. 81 Group

Type: Spitfire Ia

Serial: X4552

Code: -

Base: RAF Heston, Middlesex

Location: Burghfield, Berkshire

Pilot: Sgt. Hector Lawrence Craw NZ/404902 RNZAF Age 25. Killed

REASON FOR LOSS:

During camera gun practice whilst attempting nofollow the target aircraft which was trying to break away in a climbing turn, stalled and spun into the ground at 09:55 hrs The pilot was killed when it crashed at Burghfield.

Burial details:

Sgt. Hector Lawrence Craw. Hounslow Cemetery. Grave Plot D. Row C. Grave 3. Born at Tokomaru on the 08th September 1916. Worked as a watersider at the Port of Bluff prior to service. Enlisting at Levin on the 01st December 1940. Trained at No. 6 Flying Trains School at Dunnville, Ontario, Canada. Gained his rank and wings on the 03rd July 1941. Son of Robert and Elizabeth Craw (née Scarlett), of St. Albans, Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand. 165 flying hours logged.

Researched and dedicated to the relatives of this pilot with thanks to Jenifer Lemaire and to the extensive research by Errol Martyn and his publications: “For Your Tomorrow Vols. 1-3”, Auckland Library Heritage Collection, AWMM, Weekly News of New Zealand, other sources as quoted below:

At the going down of the sun, and in the morning we will remember them. - Laurence Binyon
All site material (except as noted elsewhere) is owned or managed by Aircrew Remembered and should not be used without prior permission.
© Aircrew Remembered 2012 - 2024 Last Modified: 09 April 2021, 12:29