The Crew of: HR720

Pilot: F/S George Robert James Duthie (CWGC Page) RNZAF KIA Aged 21
Sgt J.N. Hempstead Flight Engineer Evd
Sgt F.D. Granger Navigator PoW
Sgt T.E.F. Carr Bomber Aimer PoW
Sgt G.H. King Wirewless Operator PoW
Sgt J.R. Grey Gunner RAAF PoW
Sgt T. Pinkney Gunner PoW

HR720 got airborne at 23.44 on the 13th Jul 1943 from Lissett.
Avoided being hit by a night fighter over Holland on the outward journey, but 15 mins later was hit in the port inner engine during a second interception by night-fighter Lt Werner Baake, 1./NJG1. The engine caught fire and an explosion occured between it and the fuselage. HR720 crashed 01.30 on land belonging to Mr Van Uden at Vorstenbosch (Noord Brabant), 18 km ESE of _s-Hertogenbosch, Holland.

F/S Duthie who was unable to leave the stricken aircraft is buried in Uden War Cemetery.

Sgt Hempstead, who was the last to leave the stricken bomber, reached England 4 Nov 1943.
Sgt T.E.F.Carr successfully evaded until captured in Commercy 28 Jul 1943 and interned in Camp 4B. PoW No.222490. Sgt F.D.Granger (promoted to WO2 during captivity) in Camps L6/357. PoW No.391, with Sgt J.R.Grey (also initialled J.L.R.) PoW No.393, Sgt T.Pinkney, PoW No.422 and F/S G.H.King, PoW No.405.

If you hit the photo to the right it will open a web page showing the unveiling of a memorial at Lissett Airfield to the men who gave their lives as part of 158 Squadron. Hit the one below for a larger version of the photo.