Avro Anson LV153 crashed in Legnacoppage Glen, Mullaghclogha Mountain in the Sperrin Mountains, Co. Tyrone at 0030hrs on 6th March 1945. The Mark I plane with RAF No. 1 (O) Advanced Flying Unit took off from RAF Wigtown, Wigtownshire, Scotland at 2130hrs on 5th March 1945.
The flight was a non-operational night navigation training exercise. Of the 5 occupants, 4 died in the crash. Sergeant Michael Shaxson suffered serious injuries but survived the incident.
Locals who arrived at the scene brought him to Donaghy’s farmhouse for emergency treatment. hey took the remaining men’s bodies from the mountain wrapped in parachutes. Authorities declared the plane as written off.
Remembering the crew of Avro Anson LV153
| Last Name | First Name(s) | Rank | Role | Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| McFadyen | Ian Lachlan | Pilot Officer | Pilot | RCAF J/36483. Killed. |
| Gillian | Robert Hugh | Flight Sergeant | Navigator | RAAF 37399. Killed. |
| Shaxson | Thomas Michael David | Sergeant | Air Bomber | RAF. Injured. |
| Pennack | Jack | Warrant Officer | Wireless Operator/Air Gunner | RAF. Killed. |
| Button | Richard Arthur | Sergeant | Wireless Operator/Air Gunner | RAF. Killed. |
On 6th March 2011, Glenelly Historical Society erected a memorial at the crash site in Co. Tyrone. Sergeant Shaxton’s widow and other family members attended the ceremony.