WWII Australian Bomber

WWII Australian Bomber Discovered by Greek Technical Divers Near Antikythera

WWII Australian Bomber. A team of experienced Greek technical divers has uncovered the remains of a World War II-era bomber aircraft belonging to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), submerged off the coast of Antikythera in southern Greece. The wreck, identified as a Martin Baltimore bomber, was found at a depth of approximately 61 meters and is believed to have crashed in December 1943 during a reconnaissance mission over the Aegean Sea.

The discovery was made by AegeanTec, a diving team that specializes in deep technical dives. Although the find took place in the summer of 2023, it was only recently confirmed by the Australian Department of Defence, following months of research and verification by the Air Force’s History & Heritage Branch.

Initial clues from the wreckage led divers to suspect the aircraft’s origins and its World War II history. However, official identification came in December, when historical experts traced the aircraft to the RAAF’s 454 Squadron. Operating out of the Middle East, the squadron carried out anti-submarine and anti-shipping missions across the eastern Mediterranean.

On December 3, 1943, the bomber, with the designation FW282, came under heavy attack by German fighter aircraft while returning from a mission. Severely damaged, the pilot—Flight Lieutenant William Horsley—was forced to ditch the aircraft in the sea. Despite the crash, Horsley managed to escape the cockpit and swam to shore, where he was captured by German forces and remained a prisoner of war until the end of the conflict.

Tragically, the remaining crew members did not survive. They included RAF navigator Flight Sergeant Leslie Row, RAAF wireless operator and gunner Flying Officer Colin Walker, and RNZAF wireless operator and gunner Pilot Officer John Gartside. Their fate remained unknown until now, as they were previously listed as missing in action.

In response to the discovery, the heads of the air forces of Australia, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand have decided against recovering the wreck, citing both preservation concerns and respect for the site as a maritime war grave. However, a commemorative service to honor the fallen crew is being planned by the RAAF.

RAAF Chief Air Marshal Stephen Chappell emphasized the significance of the find, noting that it offers closure to families and serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made. UK Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the enduring bonds between the allied air forces and paying tribute to the bravery of the multinational crew.

WWII Australian Bomber

WWII