Dead Kiwi airmen get reed cross tribute

Ten Kiwi airmen killed in World War II and laid to rest 21,000km from home are to be specially honoured.

Many of the airmen, who were aged 18 to 28, were stationed with the Operational Training Unit in Cumbria, northern England.

All were killed while serving, and their bodies were buried in cemeteries across the county.

Now former RAF bomb disposal expert Fred Knox has arranged a moving tribute - the placing of crosses made from New Zealand reeds on the men's graves.

The tribute coincides with events across the UK to mark the anniversary of the Battle of Britain, regarded by historians as a turning point in the war.

Knox said it was "an honour and a privilege" to be asked to arrange the tribute.

"During the war 55,000 people from Bomber Command lost their lives. They should be remembered, no matter where they served.

"The New Zealand air crew who are buried in Cumbria found resting places a long way from their homes, so it seemed only right they should have a little bit of home - that's how the idea of these New Zealand reed crosses came about."

New Zealand airmen buried in Carlisle Cemetery are: Sgt William Brownlie, Sgt Donald Fraser, Warrant Officer John Harvey, Sgt George Hillier, Sgt Bristow Tully, Pilot Officer Alexander Wicks and Flight Sgt Bernard Williams.

Flight Sgt Owen Louden and Flying Officer (FO) Denis Mann were laid to rest at Silloth's Causeway Head Cemetery.

FO Andrew Gardiner is buried at Long Marton Churchyard, Eden Valley.

A New Zealand reed cross will also be placed on the grave of Private Norman White who died during World War I and is buried in Carlisle.

Every year, the RAF Association Wings Appeal raises about £2 million ($4.4m). The money pays for welfare support for those in need from World War II through to today's serving RAF personnel.

For more information visit www.wingsappeal.org.uk.