The Catalina IVa (JX201 AX-) of 202 Squadron struck high ground shortly after a night take off from the Rock of Gibraltar for an anti-submarine patrol over the Mediterranean Sea. The crash site was in the mountains to the rear of Cadiz at Punta Acebuche, Tarifa, Carnero.
The entire crew were killed.
Included is the official telegram sent to the then Mrs Bowles confirming that her husband had been killed on operations.
Also with the group are various personal & RAF group photos.
The official Royal Condolence letter, addressed to Mrs L.N. BOWLES who is believed to be the mother of F/O Bowles. The mailing box of issue with its Medal & Air Council condolence slip with issue list & serial number ticket is addressed to Mrs W.E. GUSSMAN which was the second married name of the previous Mrs W.E. Bowles.
As was the case with all casualties sustained in Gibraltar, due to the unavailability of burial grounds, Military interments were made at sea just off the coast, in this case with the bodies being taken to the committal area by two RAF motor launches.
A full photographic record of the sea committal service was made with eight pictures being sent to the families of the lost men. The photo set which was sent to the then Mrs Bowles is included here along with a six page letter from the RAF chaplain who conducted the service.
A Highly Unusual & Fully Documented Coastal Command Assembly.
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