Today, the 19th of June 2015, saw the South Essex Amateur Radio Society (SEARS) commemorate a historic and tragic event from World War II, and a further event is planned for this coming Sunday.
71 years ago, on the 19th of June 1944, two B17 aircraft were on their way back home from a bombing raid over France when over the Thames Estuary two of the bombers collided. One crashed over at Allhallows, the other at Canvey Point. Thirteen crew died that day, and some of the remains of the aircraft were on display at a service at the Canvey Island Yacht Club today. Members of South Essex Amateur Radio Society were at the service recreating the mode of communications that was in use at that time CW/Morse code. Dave G4AJY was on the key and made 102 contacts, and were playing videos of B17s, and wartime radios. An information board was erected near the sea wall, and 30 dignitaries and local groups were present including people that have been involved in the recovery of artifacts over the years.
SEARS has released the following video of today’s activities:
Bay Museum Sunday 21 June
A further event to commemorate the Heavenly Body II crash takes plan on Sunday the 21st of June. South Essex Amateur Radio Society will be operating from The Bay Museum on Canvey Island for Museums on the Air.
SEARS operate this event each year around the middle of June, from the Bay Museum – callsign for the event will be GB2BM. Visitors are always welcome at SEARS field events, so if you’re able to come along, please do.
Location: Bay Museum, Western Esplanade, Canvey Island SS8 0AY
Well done to SEARS for supporting today’s commemmoration.
Related Links
- SEARS Heaven Body II Info
- Bay Museum website
