Ron Hunwicks was just 19 and a flight engineer when the Lancaster he was flying in crashed on a night flight at the entrance to Hill Farm in Kirtling. Ron and two others survived the crash, though Ron lost a leg. The Lancaster was from No 75 (New Zealand) Squadron based in Mepal.
An aerial view of the site of the crash near Hill Farm, Kirtling
Who was in the crew
The crew included:
- Flight Lt. Doug Blewitt, New Zealander, who died at the site of the crash. He is buried in Cambridge cemetery (opposite Marshalls).
- Flight Sgt. Bryant Cornell, British, who died the next day. He is buried at Southgate cemetery, Middx.
- Flying Officer Johnny Wilson, New Zealander, who died at the site of the crash. He is buried in Cambridge cemetery.
- Warrant Officer John Smyrk, British, who survived and is now living in Margate.
- Sgt Ronald Hunwicks, British, who survived and is now living in Hadleigh.
- Sgt Ken Hollins, British, who survived but is now deceased.
- Sgt Bill Pridmore, British, who survived and is now living in Hemel Hempstead.
Next: One Year On