WIX Archives
and a beau ditching.....
Posted by Tony on Wed Jan 30, 2002 10:44:12 AM
In reply top null posted by null on null
Date: 29th January 1945
Aircraft: Bristol Beaufighter TF Mk. X NT927 /J
Unit: 144 Squadron based at Dallachy, part of 18 Group Coastal Command
Crew: Flight Sergeants L.A. Holland (pilot) & J. Maillan (navigator)
Location: Ditched in the sea 5 miles south-west of Sumburgh
While involved in an anti-shipping strike one engine of the Beaufighter had failed. After making two attempts to land at Sumburgh the pilot decided that there was a danger of causing damage or injury on the airfield and ditched the aircraft. He was knocked unconscious in the ditching and went down with the aircraft, which sank within 8 seconds of coming to rest. Regaining consciousness under the water, he was able to kick himself free. Both crewmembers were able to climb into their dinghy. A Lindholme dinghy was dropped for them but landed upside down. They lay on it until being picked up by a rowing boat.