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Bombs on Aunt Dainty: A Haunting Relic of the Hitler Time

Shane Blair

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Bombs on Aunt Dainty (Out of the Hitler Time 2)

Bombs on Aunt Dainty (Out of the Hitler Time Book 2)

by Judith Kerr

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	980 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	245 pages

In the tranquil town of Launceston, Tasmania, amidst rolling hills and serene waterways, lies a poignant reminder of a forgotten tragedy: the wreckage of the "Bombs on Aunt Dainty," an abandoned aircraft left behind from the darkest days of World War II. This enigmatic relic, frozen in time, evokes memories of unimaginable horrors and offers a sobering glimpse into the devastating consequences of war.

The History of the "Bombs on Aunt Dainty"

In the summer of 1943, as the war raged across continents, a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Lockheed Hudson bomber, affectionately known as "Aunt Dainty," embarked on a perilous mission. The aircraft, piloted by Flight Lieutenant George Appleton, carried a crew of seven and a deadly cargo of bombs.

Their mission was to intercept and attack a Japanese submarine lurking in the treacherous waters of Bass Strait, the narrow channel separating Tasmania from the mainland. However, tragedy struck when the submarine's anti-aircraft fire struck Aunt Dainty, crippling the plane and forcing the crew to abandon ship.

With no time to deploy their parachutes, the airmen plunged into the unforgiving sea below. Miraculously, six of the seven crew members survived the ordeal, swimming ashore to safety. Sadly, the seventh airman, Sergeant William "Bill" Birtchnell, lost his life in the crash.

The Wreckage and Its Discovery

The battered wreckage of Aunt Dainty drifted aimlessly for days until it washed ashore on a remote beach in Tasmania. The plane, riddled with bullet holes and its fuselage torn apart, lay silently on the sand, bearing witness to the horrors it had endured.

In the years that followed, the wreckage became a place of pilgrimage for locals and war enthusiasts alike. Gradually, it was covered by sand and vegetation, disappearing from view and fading into the realm of forgotten memories.

Rediscovery and Preservation

In 2015, a dedicated group of volunteers, driven by a desire to preserve and honor the memory of the "Bombs on Aunt Dainty," embarked on a mission to rediscover the wreckage. Guided by historical accounts and aerial photographs, they meticulously searched the shoreline for any trace of the lost plane.

After days of tireless searching, they made a breakthrough: the wreckage of Aunt Dainty was located, partially buried beneath the shifting sands. With great care and reverence, the team began the delicate process of excavation and restoration.

The Impact of the Tragedy

The "Bombs on Aunt Dainty" tragedy profoundly impacted the people of Tasmania and beyond. The loss of Sergeant William Birtchnell sent shockwaves through his family and the local community. The incident also served as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by Australian servicemen and women during the war.

The rediscovery of the wreckage in 2015 reignited interest in the tragedy and sparked a renewed sense of gratitude for the sacrifices made by the crew of Aunt Dainty. It also highlighted the importance of preserving war relics and memorials as a way to honor the past and educate future generations about the horrors of war.

Preservation and Future Plans

The "Bombs on Aunt Dainty" project is a testament to the power of community collaboration and the importance of preserving our heritage. The dedicated team of volunteers has worked tirelessly to restore the wreckage and create an interpretive display that provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the history and significance of the site.

The preserved wreckage of Aunt Dainty now stands as a poignant memorial to Sergeant William Birtchnell and his fellow crew members. It is a reminder of the fragility of life, the devastating consequences of war, and the indomitable spirit of those who served their country.

The "Bombs on Aunt Dainty" is a haunting relic of the Hitler Time, a somber reminder of a forgotten tragedy. It is a poignant symbol of the sacrifices made during war and a powerful testament to the importance of preserving our history. Through its rediscovery and preservation, the wreckage of Aunt Dainty continues to serve as a touchstone of memory, inspiring reflection and gratitude in the hearts of all who encounter it.

Bombs on Aunt Dainty (Out of the Hitler Time Book 2)

by Judith Kerr

4.6 out of 5