Crash site Vickers Wellington War memorial

Slipping through time’s veil, we find ourselves at the Crash site Vickers Wellington War memorial. This memorial, unveiled on November 9, 2018, stands as a poignant reminder of a wartime incident. It commemorates the crash of not one, but two Vickers Wellington bombers. The Crash site Vickers Wellington War memorial marks the spot where a Wellington bomber met its end on September 29, 1941. This aircraft, returning from a bombing raid on Stettin, crashed under unknown circumstances. Thankfully, all six crew members survived the impact, though they became prisoners of war. Their names, etched in memory, are Sgt Harry Critchley, Sgt Jarvis Isted Burbridge, Sgt David Frederick Cooper, Sgt James William Barnes Follit, Sgt Leslie Hancock, and Sgt Albert Norman Jones. Adding another layer to the story, the Crash site Vickers Wellington War memorial also commemorates a different Wellington, T2879 of 99 Squadron. This bomber, damaged by anti-aircraft fire over Turin, was unable to return to base. The crew, believing they were over the North Sea, bailed out. Their fate remains uncertain. The aircraft, however, continued its ghostly flight. It was subjected to further anti-aircraft fire and ultimately brought down over Landsmeer. Incredibly, local residents, disregarding the dangers posed by occupying troops, rushed to the crash site hoping to find survivors. They found the plane empty, a silent testament to the chaos and uncertainty of war. The Crash site Vickers Wellington War memorial serves as a focal point for remembrance. Every year, a large contingent from 99 Squadron visits the Netherlands to pay their respects. Their ceremonies, held at De Nieuwe Ooster, the crash site memorial, and in Landsmeer, involve the parading of the Squadron Standard and the laying of poppy wreaths. These acts of remembrance, performed with solemnity and respect, ensure that the sacrifices of these airmen are never forgotten.