CWGC commemorates RAF crewmen in remote Pyrenees site

Image: The new CWGC headstones at Pic de Douly (© Julian Baker)

CWGC headstones have been installed at the graves of a Halifax bomber crew buried in the Pyrenees.

The new CWGC headstones were installed as part of the 80th Anniversary commemorations of seven fallen RAF crewmen buried in Pic-de-Douly Remote Burial.

The 624 Squadron RAF aircrew were on a mission to deliver important supplies to resistance fighters in the South of France. 

Facing treacherous conditions, the Halifax crashed in thick fog, resulting in the death of 6 British and 1 Canadian airmen:

• Flying Officer Charles Spencer Goble
• Flying Officer Albert John Baythorp
• Pilot Officer Leslie Arthur Peers
• Sergeant Harry Clark
• Sergeant Jack Brooke
• Sergeant William Ronald Wharmby
• Sergeant James Edward Walsh

Offering a point of permanent commemoration to these seven airmen, the CWGC headstones replace existing stone crosses previously installed at Pic-de-Douly.

Image: The ceremony at Pic de Douly (© Julian Baker)

The headstones were delivered by RAF personnel of 4624 (Count of Oxford Movements Squadron from RAF Brize Norton.

Pic-de-Douly has recently undergone a meticulous renovation reflecting the dignity and respect of the fallen airmen buried here. Locals from Haut-Nistos have been tending to the aircrew’s graves since 1944.

Representatives of the Royal Air Force, local French officials, family members of the fallen, and veterans were in attendance.

Xavier Puppinck, France Area Director Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC), said:

“We are profoundly privileged to soon be installing new headstones for the aircrew of 624 (Special Duties) Squadron who lost their lives at Pic de Douly in the Pyrenees when their Halifax aircraft crashed due to low cloud cover while attempting to resupply the local French Resistance. Thanks to the RAF, the new headstones will be making their way toward the Pyrenees in time for the 80th anniversary service of commemoration at the remote location.  The legacy of the 624 Squadron and their brave aircrew will live on, immortalised in the hallowed stones cared for by the CWGC. Their sacrifice remains a testament to courage, duty, and the indomitable spirit of those who fought for our liberty.”

Wing Commander Rich Evans, Officer Commanding 4624 (County of Oxford) Movements Squadron, said:

"It’s an absolute privilege for the Squadron to be invited back to attend the memorial of the aircrew of 624 (Special Duties) Squadron who lost their lives when their Halifax aircraft crashed.  This year is particularly significant as it not only marks the 80th anniversary of the Halifax crash and D Day, it is also the 100th Anniversary of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force, which played a vital role during World War II and continues to deliver essential support within the Royal Air Force today.”