Recently got to know about this and being an RAF Brat wished to share with the group.
The memorial stone is placed on Slieve an Orra, Irish for Orra Mountain. The ground is mainly bogland and in the wilderness. It is in County Antrim 40 miles NW of Belfast.The story goes that a Flying Fortress B17, took off from Gander, and was either heading for Prestwick, Scotland or RAF Bassingbourn, Cambridgeshire in England. The crew on board were on what was termed a “ferry flight” from 401st Bombing Squadron, 91st group.
Prestwick was home to a transatlantic ferry terminal. The crash happened 3rd October 1942. 8 of the 10 men on-board, sadly lost their lives. Wondering if any names are of relevance to anyone perhaps, grandfather, father or relative. So pleased this sad event has been recognised with a memorial stone.
On another historical note, Orra means “Hill of Battle” supposedly being the site of the Battle of Aura where Sorley Boy MacDonnell defeated the McQuillans and the O’Neil in the 16th century. The small wooden cross, with poppy has been laid by a thoughtful person.
Remembrance Cross from British Legion.
Anne Toledo
From the Frontlines to the Homefront 