Controlled explosion used to dispose of bombs found at Danish Halifax crash site

Following the disturbance by a local amateur historical group of a Second World War crash site, Danish Military authorities have carried out an operation to destroy unexploded ordnance.

The bomb crater left after the controlled explosion. (Photos: courtesy Rune Dyrholm and Forsvaret (Danish Defence Command))

The crash site in Kær Hestehave, Als, belonged to Halifax II HR940, RAF 51 Squadron, RAF Snaith, Yorkshire lost on the night of the 24/25 July 1943, shot down by a German night fighter. Its crew were Sgt. William J. Murray (pilot), Sgt. Douglas C. Ford (Fl/Eng), Sgt. Thomas McLaughlin (Nav), Sgt. Ronald A. Fleming (Air/Bmr), Sgt. Reginald E. Livermore (W/Op/Air/Gnr), Sgt. Harry Cousin (Air/Gnr), Sgt Bernard T. Walsh (Air/Gnr). All are buried in CWGC graves at Aabenraa Cemetery, Denmark. A local memorial to the crew was also established by the Danish people in the area.

The bomb load was recorded as 5 x 1000 lb (454 kg) General Purpose and 2 x 1000lb (454kg) Medium Capacity high explosive.

The area cordoned off during the operation. (Photos: courtesy Rune Dyrholm and Forsvaret (Danish Defence Command))

The Danish military operation involved a large area being cordoned off and patrolled by the Danish Home Guard during the search for any additional unexploded ordnance or items from the aircrew found in the process.  Due to the unstable nature of the munitions that they found, a large safety zone was established and local people evacuated. A controlled explosion took place on the morning of 16 November 2022, before residents were able to return home.

Dr Stephan Naji, Head of CWGC’s Recovery Unit said: “In this case the Danish authorities were able to respond quickly and professionally to deal with the danger presented by the disturbance of the crash site. We’re glad that the people of Kær Hestehave are safe and have been able to return home. It’s a reminder to everyone of the dangers of unauthorized excavations on sites which haven’t been searched by de-mining teams before works start.”

Halifax Mk.II (Photo: IWM (CH 011324))