Operation: Training

Date: 26th May 1942 (Tuesday)

Unit: No. 616 Squadron (motto: Nulla Rosa Sine Spina - 'No rose without a thorn') 12 Group

Type: Spitfire VI

Serial: BR172

Code: YQ-?

Base: RAF Kings Cliffe, Northamptonshtre

Location: Dunholme, Lincolnshire

Pilot: P/O. Leicester Bond Ware NZ/404007 RNZAF Age 24. Killed

REASON FOR LOSS:

Taking part in an interception exercise with 303 Polish Squadron when, during a steep dive at high speed the wings broke away.

The aircraft crashed at Dunholme, Lincolnshire and burnt out. The young New Zealand pilot was killed instantly.

Burial details:

Buried at Scampton cemetery on Saturday the 30th May 1942.

P/O. Leicester Bond Ware. Scampton Cemetery. (St John the Baptist). New Part. Grave 6. Born on the 14th May 1918 at Christchurch. Prior to service worked as a clerk for the Public Works Department. Enlisted on the 27th October, 1940 at Levin. Promoted to sergeant and awarded his wings on the 12th April 1941. Commissioned to P/O. on the 3rd December 1941. Son of Basil George Ware and of Edith Ellen Ware (née Ashworth), of Addington, Canterbury, New Zealand. Previously served with 132 Squadron. Credited with damaging 1 enemy aircraft. 476 flying hours logged and completed 48 operational sorties.

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
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