16 September 1940 and 2011

After his busy day on 15 September, John Crossman had a much quieter time of it on the 16th. ‘Went up on an interception today but no EA seen at all.’

Fast forward to 16 September 2011.

 

On that day, as part of Newcastle, New South Wales’ annual Battle of Britain commemoration, Hornets from RAAF Base Williamtown carried out a flypast over the city’s cenotaph. The ceremony in particular commemorated the death of John. For the first time, John’s nephew Peter and great-nephew Chris attended. As a personal tribute to John they brought along his service medals and impressed those present with the significance of the Battle of Britain clasp.