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Lady Jane crash: remembering a tragic event that marked Norwich's history

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Lady Jane crash: remembering a tragic event that marked Norwich's history
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A US Army Air Corps B-24 Liberator, known as Lady Jane, crashed in Norwich, England on November 13, 1944. The aircraft was returning from a bombing mission when it encountered mechanical issues. Weather conditions that night were poor with clouds and low visibility reported near the airfield.

Lt. William Duffy piloted the plane back to its base at Hethel, Norfolk under deteriorating weather conditions. As they flew over Norwich at a low altitude, the crew failed to see St. Philip's Church steeple. The right wing and horizontal stabilizer struck the church and detached from the aircraft. Witnesses observed the plane flying about 1,000 yards before it banked sharply and crashed into the old Corporation Depot.

The crash resulted in the deaths of nine out of ten crew members and one civilian on the ground. Derek James from EDP24 described how "the aircraft struck houses and then exploded, creating a scene of devastation."

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Debris scattered across residential neighborhoods made rescue operations challenging due to intense fires from the burning bomber. Local residents assisted emergency personnel in their efforts to save lives. This incident highlighted both the dangers faced by aircrews during wartime missions and risks posed to nearby communities.

The B-24 Liberator was crucial for Allied forces during World War II due to its long-range capabilities and large payload capacity. According to the National Museum of the United States Air Force, it was "one of the most produced heavy bombers of the conflict," with over 18,000 units manufactured.

Lt. Duffy reportedly attempted to steer away from densely populated areas after realizing his plane's condition but ultimately lost control resulting in a fatal crash. Sgt. Leon Alford survived after being ejected upon impact; local emergency responders saved his life despite serious injuries.

"The sacrifices of the crew remind us of perils faced by airmen in wartime," noted by American Air Museum honors those who did not return home after WWII.

The Evening News recounted how this crash "shattered relative calm Norwich had enjoyed" post-Blitz years while emphasizing high risks bomber crews faced during WWII aerial battles across Europe.

In memory of Lady Jane’s fallen crew members:

- 2nd Lt Ralph J Dooley (Pilot in Command)

- 2nd Lt Arthur Akin Jr

- 2nd Lt Paul Gorman

- SSGT John Jones

- SSGT Paul Wadsworth

- SSGT Oscar Nelson

- SSGT John Phillips

- SSGT Don Qupek

- SSGT Ralph Von Bergen

Memorials mark where Lady Jane crashed as annual ceremonies continue commemorating its impact on Norwich eight decades later.

Organizations Included in this History
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