Operation: Training
Date: 20th October 1941 (Sunday)
Unit: No. 61 Operational Training Unit 81 Group
Type: Spitfire I
Serial: R6765
Code: -
Base: RAF Heston, Middlesex
Location: Near Heston, Middlesex
Pilot: Sgt. Charles Francis McCullough NZ/403977 RNZAF Age 21. Killed
REASON FOR LOSS:
Taking off on a camera gun exercise together with Spitfire I X4540.
During a simulated attack and breaking away the two aircraft collided - killing both pilots.
Sadly we have been unable to identify the pilot of X4540.
Burial details:
Sgt. Charles Francis McCullough. Hounslow Cemetery. Plot D Row E Grave 3. Born on the 07th May 1920 at Auckland. Enlisted 27th October 1940. Son of Horace Haines and Ada McCullough (née Hawke) of Epsom, Auckland. Stepson of Jessie Eileen Helen McCullough (née Gendall). 221 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:
