Information from WW2 Nominal Roll website
Army Service |
Air Force Service |
Name – Neil Vernon EVANS
Service – Australian Army
Service Number – WX29148
Date of Birth – 14 February 1923
Place of Birth – Lecton (sic *), New South Wales
Date of Enlistment – 14 August 1942 **
Locality of Enlistment – Victoria Park, WA
Place of Enlistment – Moora, WA
Next of Kin – George Evans
Date of Discharge – 10 November 1942
Rank – Private
Posting at Discharge – 121 Reserve Motor Transport Coy **
WW2 Honours and Gallantry – None for display
Prisoner of War – No
(* may be Leeton, NSW, which is near Barellan, NSW)
(** records differs with information on RAAF file, see later)
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Name – Neil Vernon EVANS
Service – Royal Australian Air Force
Service Number – 436113
Date of Birth – 14 February 1923
Place of Birth – Barellen (sic *), New South Wales
Date of Enlistment – 11 November 1942
Locality of Enlistment – Unknown
Place of Enlistment – Perth, WA
Next of Kin – George Evans
Date of Death – 10 April 1945
Rank – Flight Sergeant
Posting at Death – 462 (RAAF) Squadron
WW2 Honours and Gallantry – None for display
Prisoner of War – No
Roll of Honour – Perth, WA
(* may be Barellan, NSW, near Leeton)
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From the National Archives of Australia – Service File, Series A9301; Casualty File, Series A705; Loss of Aircraft File, Series A11385; 462 Squadron ORBs “Form 540 Summary of Events” and “Form 541 Detail of Work Carried Out”. Service File records sometimes vary by date – any discrepancies are recorded below. (Comments & corrections are bracketed in italics.) Various documents have been quoted in full because the quality of the original digital copies precludes their reproduction here. Some information has also been taken from M.J.Hibberd’s personal papers held by his Widow. The Army Service File of N.V.Evans in the NAA Series B883 "2nd Australian Imperial Forces Dossiers 1939 – 1947", has not been viewed, however some details were extracted from relevant sections of his RAAF Service File which referred to his prior military service.
15 June 1942 – Application for Air Crew while serving as WX29148 Transport Driver N.V.Evans, “C” Platoon, 138th General Transport Coy, 3rd Aust. Corps, Australian Military Forces. His home residence was with his parents at 15 Ashburton Street, Victoria Park. Next of kin listed was his father George Vernon Evans, Australian by birth. His mother was English. Education was 1929-1936 at Meckering State School; January to December 1937 at Bunbury High School; January to December 1938 at Perth Boys School. He had been examined for the Junior Certificate in November 1938 by the University of West Australia and had received his Certificate with passes in English, Maths A, Maths B, History, Geography, Drawing B, Woodwork, Science (Physics) but failed French. Further education was from January 1939 to December 1941 at Perth Technical School with night classes in Accountancy, Typing, and Leaving English. Since leaving school he had been employed as a Civil Servant (Clerk) in the West Australian Government Civil Service. He had no prior flying experience, nor any experience in wireless telegraphy or telephony, engineering, internal combustion engines, or fitting and turning. His sports were football, tennis, cricket, swimming and cycling. At application date he was 5 feet 9 inches tall, 11 st 7 lbs, chest 33/36. The application was signed on 15 June 1942 by Neil Vernon Evans, and because he was under age 21, also by his father George Vernon Evans.
1 July 1942 – Application for Air Crew approved by Man Power Officer RAAF Recruiting Centre Perth.
14 July 1942 – Will completed, Executor father, George Vernon Evans; Sole Beneficiary mother, Elizabeth Evans.
1 October 1942 – Air Crew Medical Examination at No. 4 Recruiting Centre (4 R.C.), age 19 years 7 months; Height 5 feet 8½ inches; Weight 168 lb (12 stone or 76.2 kg); Chest 35/38 inches with expansion of 3 inches; Vision 6/6 both eyes; Complexion Fresh; Eye colour Blue; Hair colour Fair; Religion Baptist; Tested for Aptitude; Interviewed; X-Rayed; Medical Classification “A3B to A1B”.
15 October 1942 – Agreement to Serve in, to be allotted to, or Enlist in the RAAF, 4 R.C. WA, age 19 years and 9 (sic) months, date of birth 14 February 1923, single, British subject, born Barellen, NSW, served 10 months and currently with 138th Aust. Gen. Transport Company, Service Address WX.29148 Pte Evans N.V., C Pltn, 138th Gen. Transport Coy. Private Address 15 Ashburton Street, Victoria Park. Business Address Public Works Dept., previous employment Clerk.
11 November 1942 – Enlistment in RAAF Citizen Air Force, 4 R.C. WA, date of birth 14 February 1923; born in Barellen NSW; British Subject; Religion Baptist; Profession Clerk, no Apprenticeship; single, no Civil convictions; no discharge from any Services for misconduct or felony or disgrace; no rejections from any Services as unfit; willing to serve under conditions in regulations of Air Force. He answered ‘No’ to question asking if he currently belonged to any Service including Air Force, but ‘Yes’ to question asking if had ever served in any Service including Air Force. He had served for 10 months as a Driver in the 138th Aust. Gen. Transport Company from 22 December 1941 to 10 November 1942, and had been discharged for enlistment in the RAAF, with discharge sighted by the enlisting Officer. He enlisted for the duration of the War and twelve months thereafter. Next of Kin was his father George Vernon Evans, of 15 Ashburton Street, Victoria Park, West Australia. Declaration signed and Oath taken by Neil Vernon Evans on 11 November 1942 at No. 4 Recruiting Centre, Perth, Official service number 436113. (Please refer to photograph above of Neil Vernon Evans at enlistment, in civilian clothes.)
11 November 1942 – Medical Certificate completed and signed at 4 R.C. by Examining Medical Officer. Age 19 years & 8 (sic) months; information almost identical to medical examination on 1 October except for changed Medical Classification. Height 5 feet 8½ inches; Weight 168 lb (12 stone or 76.2 kg); Chest 35/38 inches with expansion of 3 inches; Vision 6/6 both eyes; Complexion Fresh; Eye colour Blue; Hair colour Fair; Scars on right hip and right knee; Medical Classification “A3B only”.
11 November 1942 – Classification Air Craftman 2 (A.C.2 or A.C.II) on enlistment. (Please refer to photograph above of A.C.2 Neil Vernon Evans.)
11 November 1942 – Posting to No.4 Recruit Depot (4 R.D.), Busselton, WA from No. 4 R.C. (Pilot A.D.J.Ball’s file is stamped as No. 4 Recruit Depot Pearce in June 1942, however Evans’s file is stamped as No. 4 Recruit Depot Busselton. References on the internet indicate that 4 R.D. relocated from Pearce to Busselton in July 1942.)
11 November 1942 – Mustering Air Crew V (Clerk Signals) on enlistment.
12 November 1942 – Recruit Drill Course from 12 November to 10 December 1942.
15 November 1942 – Certificate at 4 R.D. stating Will dated 14 July 1942 was held by District Records Office, Perth WA.
10 December 1942 – Recruit Drill Course No. 197 at 4 R.D. – Pass.
31 December 1942 – Assessment at Rank A.C.2, Mustering Aircrew V (Clerk Signals) – Character V.G., Proficiency Category A Trade – Satisfactory.
30 January 1943 – Posting to No. 5 Initial Training School (5 I.T.S.), Clontarf, WA. (Pilot A.D.J. Ball had previously trained here from 11 October 1942 to 7 January 1943.)
2 February 1943 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by F/O (Adjutant), 4 R.D., Busselton, WA.
13 April 1943 – Official Identity Card issued, Number GM864.
20 April 1943 – Remustered as Air Crew V (Navigator) at 5 I.T.S., Clontarf, WA. (One record lists this mustering as Air Crew V (Navigator B.)
22 May 1943 – Promoted to Leading Air Craftman (L.A.C.) at 5 I.T.S.
22 May 1943 – Remustered as Air Crew II (Navigator B) at 5 I.T.S.
17 June 1943 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by Adjutant, No. 5 I.T.S., Clontarf, WA.
17 June 1943 – Assessment at Rank LAC, Mustering Aircrew (Nav B) – Character V.G., Under Training.
24 June 1943 – Posting to No. 2 Air Observers School (2 A.O.S.), Mount Gambier SA, Course 39.
16 September 1943 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by F/O (Adjutant), 2 A.O.S., RAAF Mount Gambier, SA.
16 September 1943 – Assessment at Rank LAC, Mustering Aircrew II (Nav) – Character V.G., Under Training, signed by W/CDR Commanding No. 2 A.O.S., Mount Gambier South Australia.
20 September 1943 – Posting to No. 2 Bombing and Gunnery School (2 B.A.G.S.), RAAF Port Pirie, SA, Course 39.
11 November 1943 – Awarded Navigator’s Badge at 2 B.A.G.S. (on one record the date of Award of Nav. Badge was 9.12.43 but overwritten with 11.11.43, however several other records all list the badge award as being on 11 November 1943. It is noted that he was promoted to Sergeant on 9 December 1943, so this later date may be the correct one for the Award of the Navigator’s badge.)
11 November 1943 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by Adjutant, 2 B.A.G.S., Port Pirie, SA.
11 November 1943 – Assessment at Rank LAC, Mustering Aircrew II (Nav) – Character V.G., Under Training.
Undated Addition to Service File – “Person to be informed of casualties” in addition to next of kin; Fiancée Nurse Joy Belle Mary RICHARDS (S/N 6317), “Roanake” (sic) Box 1, Narridy, South Australia; and c/- Nursing Staff, Public Hospital, Port Pirie, South Australia. (It is possible that Neil and Joy met during Neil’s posting to 2 B.A.G.S. Port Pirie, so Joy’s details may have been added to his Service File during or after his posting there. Address was “Roanoke”.)
14 November 1943 – Posting to No. 2 Air Navigation School (2 A.N.S.), Nhill, Victoria, Course 39 from 15 November to 9 December 1943. (Posting date also recorded as 15.11.43; please refer to photograph above of Neil Vernon Evans at Nav. Course.)
9 December 1943 – Navigator’s Course No. 39 at 2 A.N.S. – Pass.
9 December 1943 – Remustered as Air Crew I (Navigator B) at 2 A.N.S.
9 December 1943 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by Adjutant, 2 A.N.S., Nhill, NSW.
9 December 1943 – Assessment at Rank LAC, Mustering Aircrew II (Nav) – Character V.G., Under Training, signed by Wing Cmdr Commanding No. 2 A.N.S., Nhill.
9 December 1943 – Promoted to Sergeant at 2 A.N.S.
10 December 1943 – Posting to No. 5 Embarkation Depot (5 E.D.), Subiaco, Perth WA (also listed in a 2nd record as 27 December 1943.)
10 December 1943 – Special Leave, Pre-Embarkation, 6 days, to 15 December 1943.
31 December 1943 – Assessment at Rank Sgt, Mustering Navigator – Character V.G., Under Training.
31 December 1943 – Assessment at Rank Sgt. Mustering Navigator (B) – Character V.G., Proficiency Category A Trade – Satisfactory; Category C (Admin, drill, discipline) – Satisfactory. (These 2 Assessment entries both dated 31 December are on different record sheets.)
10 January 1944 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by F/O (Adjutant), 5 E.D.
15 January 1944 – Posting to No. 1 Embarkation Depot (1 E.D.), Ascot Vale, Melbourne, Victoria.
28 January 1944 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by Adjutant, 1 E.D.
29 January 1944 – Embarked from Melbourne Australia for the UK.
22 February 1944 – Service Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by F/O, for Officer in Charge of Records, RAAF.
12 March 1944 – Disembarked UK.
12 March 1944 – Attachment to RAF.
13 March 1944 – Posting to No. 11 Personnel Despatch & Reception Centre (11 P.D.R.C.), Brighton UK. (also listed in records as 12 and 14 March 1944)
8 May 1944 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by Adjutant 11 P.D.R.C.
8 May 1944 – Posting to No. 8 (Observers) Advanced Flying Unit (8 (O) A.F.U.), at RAF Mona, (Heneglwys) Anglesey Wales, (also listed as 9 May) training in Anson aircraft, course 39 from 9 May to 5 June 1944. (He had been in Course 39 at all postings to 2 A.O.S., 2 A.N.S., 2 B.A.G.S. and 8 (O) A.F.U.)
5 June 1944 – Course No. 39 at 8 (O) A.F.U. – Pass.
6 June 1944 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by Adjutant 8 (O) A.F.U.
6 June 1944 – Assessment at Rank Sgt, Mustering Navigator B – Character V.G., Under Training.
6 June 1944 – Posting to No. 27 Operational Training Unit (27 O.T.U.) Lichfield. After their posting to Lichfield, the Crew of 6 RAAF airmen was formed – Pilot A.D.J.Ball, Air Bomber M.Frank, Navigator N.V.Evans, Wireless Operator R.R.Taylor, Air Gunner J.M.Tait, Rear Air Gunner M.J.Hibberd. They trained in Wellington Bombers and were based at the nearby satellite air field at Church Broughton. They remained as a crew through their further postings. (Please view photos on the 27 O.T.U. Church Broughton page).
6 June 1944 – Assessment at Rank Sgt, Mustering Nav. B – Character V.G., On strength for training only.
9 June 1944 – Promotion to Flight Sergeant at 27 O.T.U.
19 August 1944 – Privilege leave, 7 days, to 25 August 1944, 27 O.T.U. with Free Travel Warrant F492909.
25 August 1944 – Assessment at Rank F/Sgt, Mustering Navigator B – Character V.G., Under Training.
25 August 1944 – Assessment at Rank F/Sgt, Mustering Nav B – Character V.G., On strength for training only. (These last 2 Assessments on separate documents.)
25 August 1944 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by W/O (Adjutant), 27 O.T.U. Lichfield.
25 August 1944 – Attachment to Aircrew Training School.
25 August 1944 – Posting to 41 Base, Acaster Malbis, Yorkshire UK. (Same date as posting of M.J.Hibberd, and the other members of the newly formed Crew).
16 September 1944 – Privilege leave, 5 days, to 20 September 1944 with Free Travel Warrant F974872.
27 October 1944 – Privilege leave, 10 days to 5 November 1944 with Free Travel Warrant G506320.
7 November 1944 – Posting to 74 Base, No. 1652 Heavy Conversion Unit (1652 H.C.U.), Marston Moor, Yorkshire, UK training in Halifax Bombers, with the addition of Flight Engineer Sgt Frederick Brookes. (Same date as posting of M.J.Hibberd and the other members of the Crew from 27 O.T.U. – please see photos on 1652 H.C.U. page).
31 December 1944 – Assessment at Rank F/Sgt, Mustering Navigator – Character V.G., Under Training.
31 December 1944 – Assessment at Rank F/Sgt, Mustering Navigator – Character V.G., On strength for training only.
16 February 1945 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by F/Lt, RAF Base Station Marston Moor.
16 February 1945 – Posting to 462 Squadron, 100 Group, Bomber Command based at Foulsham Norfolk UK for Operations. (Same date as posting of M.J.Hibberd and the other members of the Crew, who were assigned to ‘B’ Flight for this First Tour of Duty. 462 Squadron was a Special Duties Squadron carrying out Radio Counter Measures, flying in Halifax III Bombers modified for carrying special equipment. Special Duties Officers were assigned to each operational flight to form a Crew of 8, and in some instances a crew of 9. The Special Duties Operator for this crew’s last 2 operations was German-speaking Flying Officer John Heggarty.)
462 Squadron – Air Crew Arrival Form – Information from National Archives of Australia "Loss of Aircraft Halifax III "V" NA240 10/11 April 1945" Series A11385, Digital Copy of item 3552009, page 34 of 52 pages. (Form to be filled out by Aircrew in his own handwritten block letters – transcription of original).
Date – 16/2/45 On posting from – 1652 CU MARSTON MOOR
On the Authority of ……. (blank)
1. Number…. 436113 ….. 2. Surname…. EVANS
2. Christian Names…… NEIL VERNON
3. Substantive Rank… FLIGHT SGT …… Date… 9:6:44
4. Acting Rank…. NIL … Date…. (blank)
5. Decorations…. NIL … Date…. (blank)
6. Type of Service ….. AIRCREW
7. Aircrew Category (in full) …… NAVIGATOR B
8. Types of Aircraft Flown ….. ANSON, BATTLE, WELLINGTON, HALIFAX
9. Courses Attended ….. AIRCREW NAVIGATION
10. Date of Birth …. 14th FEBRUARY 1923
11. If Married …. (blank) ….. Date …. (blank)
12. Next of Kin a) Relationship …. FATHER
b) Full Name …. GEORGE VERNON EVANS
c) Address …. 15 ASHBURTON ST., VICTORIA PARK, WESTERN AUSTRALIA
13. Additional Person to be Informed a) Relationship …. FIANCEE
b) Full Name …. MISS JOY BELLE MARY RICHARDS
c) Address …. “ROANOKE” BOX 1, NARRIDY, SOUTH AUSTRALIA
15. Religion …. BAPTIST.
16 Medical Category …. (blank)
Operations 462 Squadron – Please refer to the 462 Squadron page to see a photo of the Squadron Navigators in February 1945, including F/Sgt N.V.Evans who is in the back row, far right.
March and April 1945 – No logbook is available for N.V.Evans however it is assumed that as members of a newly formed crew, the crew’s individual logbook details would have been the same. On Pilot F/O A.D.J.Ball’s page are the complete actual entries from Log Book of Rear Gunner F/Sgt M.J.Hibberd, and actual Squadron ORB information, extracted from monthly reports using “Form 540 Summary of Events” and “Form 541 Detail of Work Carried Out”. Information there has been transcribed as originally recorded with all spelling and other errors. Log book information is also on the Service History page for Rear Gunner Fl/Sgt M.J.Hibberd, however a summary of the Rear Gunner’s logbook follows. (Comments & corrections in italics.)
4 March 1945 – R/AG Log Book “Halifax III Z5-S, Pilot F/O Ball, Day cross country training exercise. Flight time of 4 hours 25 minutes.” (Possibly 3 March)
5 March 1945 – R/AG Log Book “Halifax III Z5-V, Pilot F/O Ball, Day cross country training exercise. Flight time of 25 minutes.”
6 March 1945 – R/AG Log Book “Halifax III Z5-S, Pilot F/O Ball, Day cross country training exercise. Flight time of 3 hours 5 minutes.”
8 March 1945 – R/AG Log Book “Halifax III Z5-V, Pilot F/O Ball, Night cross country training exercise. Flight time of 3 hours.”
9 March 1945 – R/AG Log Book “Halifax III Z5-M, Pilot F/O Ball, Day cross country training exercise. Flight time of 2 hours 10 minutes.”
10 March 1945 – R/AG Log Book “Ops No 1 – Halifax III Z5-P, Pilot F/O Ball, Munster (sic), “Spoof” Special Duties. Engine Failure. Returned. Flight time 4 hours and 5 minutes.” (Incomplete Op not counted in Tour of Duty).
13 March 1945 – R/AG Log Book “Ops No 1 – Halifax III Z5-N Pilot F/O Ball, Frankfurt, Special Duties. Saw 2 fighters. No Flak. Quiet Trip. Flight time 5 hours 50 minutes.”
14 March 1945 – R/AG Log Book “Ops No 2 – Halifax III Z5-N, Pilot F/O Ball, Weisbaden (sic), Special Duties. Fighter Decoy. No Fighter. Good Trip. Flight time 6 hours and 5 minutes.” (Current spelling is Wiesbaden, near Frankfurt.)
16 March 1945 – R/AG Log Book “Ops No 3 – Halifax III Z5-V, Pilot F/O Ball, Hanua (probably Hanau?), Special Duties with Special Operator. Severe Icing. Landed Away. Flight time 7 hours 45 minutes.”
16 March 1945 Sqdn ORB Form 540 – “The serviceability had dropped considerably today, and only four aircraft were available for operations. Four crews were briefed, but MZ308 “S”/462 (Captain – F/O M.R.Marchant) was a non-starter owing to a magneto drop in the inner starboard engine. On the return journey NA240 “V”/462 (Captain – P/O A.D.Ball) landed at Watton aerodrome after having been off course, and PN442 “H”/462 (captain – F/S Sharp, G.C.) was diverted to Woodbridge landing field, as his brakes were unserviceable.”
22 March 1945 – R/AG Log Book “Halifax III Z5-B2, Pilot F/O Ball, Fighter Affiliation – night training exercise. Flight time 1 hour 25 minutes.”
24 March 1945 – R/AG Log Book “Ops No 4 – Halifax III Z5-S, Pilot F/O Ball, Köln (= Cologne) Special Duties with Special Operator. Spoof. No Flak. Fighter FW190 Attacked & Followed. Fired 800 Rounds & Claimed Hits. Evasive Action carried out. Flight time 5 hours and 10 minutes.”
26 March 1945 – R/AG Log Book “Halifax III Z5-P, Pilot F/O Ball, Day cross country training exercise. Flight time 2 hours and 25 minutes.”
26 March 1945 Sqdn ORB Form 540 – “A maximum fighter affiliation programme was arranged, but owing to rapid deterioration in the weather, the detail was later cancelled. One cross country flight was flown during the afternoon by a crew that had returned a poor navigational effort, during an operational sortie.” (Refers to this crew’s Op No 3 on 16/03/45, landing away at Watton. Note that the Rear Gunner also records “Severe icing” – would this have contributed to their “landing away”?)
3 April 1945 – SLSA Privilege leave, 7 days to 9 April 1945, but no Free Travel Warrant issued. (Leave for the same period is recorded in the RAAF Service Files for Bomb Aimer Frank & Pilot Ball as 7 days Privilege Leave, but for Navigator Evans & Wireless Operator Taylor as 7 days SLSA Privilege Leave. No UK leave information is included in the Service Files for Gunners Hibberd or Tait. I have assumed that all members of a crew would generally be issued leave for the same periods. Anecdotal evidence is that Rear Gunner F/Sgt M.J.Hibberd was dancing at the Trocadero in London the night before he was shot down on their final flight on 10 April 1945 – Ref: L.Lazarides.) In 1945 Good Friday was the 30 March, and Easter Monday was the 2nd April. Their leave from 3 April was therefore commenced on the Tuesday after Easter. Later correspondence in the Casualty File refers to F/Sgt Evans “He came to see us on Easter Monday and stayed for a couple of days.” However it would appear that the date of that visit had been confused.)
10 April 1945 – R/AG Log Book “Ops No 5 – Halifax III Z5-V, Pilot F/O Ball, Special Duties Operation Leipzig. (R/AG) Baled Out.”
10 April 1945 – Last flight in Halifax III NA240 Z5-V, on a Special Duties Operation to Leipzig.
10 April 1945 – 462 Sqdn ORB Form 541 – "Halifax NA240: up at 1910, missing; SDO F/O J.Heggarty RAF (VR) 179888. This aircraft took off on a Protective Patrol with the Main Force to Leipzig and failed to return from that Operation. There has been no news since taking off, and the crew has been reported Missing".
10 April 1945 – Bomber Command “Departed at 1910 from Foulsham on Bomber Support (BS) Radio Counter Measure (RCM) duties in support of 5 Group Operations. 76 Lancasters and 19 Mosquitos of Bomber Command’s 5 Group and 8 Group attacked the Wahren railway yards, Leipzig. The eastern half of the yards was destroyed. 7 Lancaster Bombers were lost. 1 RCM Halifax was lost, that being Halifax III NA240 Z5-V of Ball and Crew.”
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Casualty details (File Number 166/12/174 opened 13 April 1945, RAAF HQ, D.P.S. Casualty Section.)
10 April 1945 – Neil Vernon Evans officially listed as “Missing Air Operations, target Leipzig, Germany”. (Also dated as 11 April 1945 in one record.)
10 April 1945 – Posting to War Cas. N/E Accts (backdated from 26 April 1945; a 2nd record lists this posting as 14 April 1945).
10 April 1945 – Official Presumption of Death by O.H.Q. (backdated from decision conveyed in a letter to next-of-kin on 20 November 1945; also Daily Casualty Report Serial No. 635/45 dated 4 January 1946).
11 April 1945 – Sqdn ORB Form 540 – “The crews of TWO of the A.B.C. Aircraft were briefed to accompany 5 Group with the Main Force and the remaining Crews for a Window mission to the PLOUEN (sic) area. When the crews were in the Aircraft read to take off, the Operation was cancelled. No news has been received of the Aircraft “V”/462 – Captain – P/O A.D.Ball missing from Operations on the night of the 10th.” (Assume Plouen should be Plauen.)
11 April 1945 – Cable Signal P51 SECRET for immediate transmission, from 462 (RAAF) Squadron to – Air Ministry Kingsway; No. 100 Group; Records Gloucester; H.Q.B.C.; 43 Group; RAAF Overseas Headquarters Kingsway; and repeated to – Senior Accountant; Officer Station Adjutant; C.T.O.; Committee of Adjustment. The cable advised of the loss of Halifax III NA-240 Z5-V, listing the engine details, Operation details, Crew by service number, rank and full names; bomb load; special equipment; next of kin already informed (those in the UK), and those yet to be informed (in Aus & Canada) – Cable was signed by Flight Lieutenant D.G.Highman, Adjutant of 462 Squadron, for the Squadron Leader.
11 April 1945 – Letter from Squadron Leader L.G.Scharer of 462 Squadron to The Under-Secretary of State, Air Ministry, London confirming signal P.51 of the same date. This letter gave information about the missing Halifax, the Pilot, target, ammunition and bomb load, fuel, and crew by name, rank, service number and crew position.
11 April 1945 – Cable Signal PCX9 AUSCAS 571, from Air Min Kingsway to RAAF HQ INFO & RAAFLO OTTOWA. For IMMEDIATE transmission –
“HALIFAX NA240, 462 RAAF SQUADRON, MISSING FROM OPERATIONS TARGET LEOPZIG (sic) NIGHT 10/11 APRIL” It then listed the Service No., Rank & Names of all of the Crew, and the names & addresses of all of the Next of Kin. In this Casualty File the following is underlined “……. AUS436113 F/SGT NEIL VERNON EVANS (FATHER) GV EVANS 15 ASHBURTON STREET VICTOR (sic) PARK WESTERN AUSTRALIA ALSO (FIANCEE) MISS JBM RICHARDS ROANAKE (sic) BOX 1 ARRIDY (sic) SOUTH AUSTRALIA……”
(Corrections – Target was Leipzig; home address was Victoria Park; fiancée’s address was “Roanoke”, Narridy.)
13 April 1945 – Casualty Notification form with service details raised by D.P.S. (Cas); stamped as recorded on Casualty Index on 17 April 1945 (Finance Serial No. 9451), initialled as being checked for Rank with confirmation of rank of F/Sgt as of 9 June 1944.
13 April 1945 – Telegram from Air Force, Melbourne, to Mr. G.V. EVANS, 15 ASHBURTON STREET VICTORIA PARK WA, lodged Melbourne 5:35pm on 13th, and delivered at 9:30pm on 13th April 1945 ……. (quote)
“436113 FLIGHT SERGEANT N.V. EVANS MISSING STOP REGRET TO INFORM YOU THAT YOUR SON FLIGHT SERGEANT NEIL VERNON EVANS IS MISSING AS RESULT AIR OPERATIONS ON 11th (sic) APRIL 1945 STOP KNOWN DETAILS ARE HE WAS MEMBER OF CREW HALIFAX AIRCRAFT DETAILED TO ATTACK ENEMY TARGET AT LEIPZIG GERMANY WHICH FAILED TO RETURN TO BASE STOP THE MINISTER FOR AIR JOINS WITH AIR BOARD IN EXPRESSING SINCERE SYMPATHY IN YOUR ANXIETY STOP WHEN ANY FURTHER INFORMATION IS RECEIVED IT WILL BE CONVEYED TO YOU IMMEDIATELY.”
13 April 1945 – Telegram from Air Force, Melbourne, to MISS J.B.M. RICHARDS ROANAKE (sic) BOX 1 NARRIDY SA, lodged Melbourne 5:35pm on 13th, and delivered at 5.00pm on 16th April 1945 to Port Pirie Hospital …… (wording almost identical to that used in the telegram to Mr Evans.)
14 April 1945 – Postal letter from Squadron Leader L.G.Scharer of 462 Squadron to Mr G.V. Evans, 15 Ashburton Street, Victoria Park, Western Australia. ………… (quote)
Ref 462S/C.1714/18/P1
Dear Mr Evans,
Before you receive this letter, you will have been notified by the Air Board, Melbourne, that your Son, Flight Sergeant Neil Vernon Evans, was reported missing from an operational flight from this country.
It is with the deepest regret that I am writing to confirm this unhappy news, and to convey to you the heartfelt sympathy of the Squadron in your great anxiety.
On the night of the 10th April, 1945 the aircraft in which your Son was Navigator, took off to carry out an attack on enemy territory. This flight represented one of the very courageous efforts called for from the Royal Australian Air Force in this war, and it was undertaken with efficiency and resolution, for which your Son and his crew were an inspiration to us all. Unfortunately the aircraft did not return.
The most searching enquires through all possible channels have so far revealed nothing, but naturally it will take some time for possible information to reach this country from enemy sources. Meanwhile we can only hope that Flight Sergeant Evans and the other members of his crew are either in safe hands or prisoners of war.
A committee of officers, known as the “Standing Committee of Adjustment” has gathered all your Son’s personal belongings together and they will be forwarded to the Central Depositary of the Royal Air Force. In due course you will receive a further communication concerning them from the Australian Air Board.
May I again express my personal sympathy and profound regret that it should fall to my lot to convey to you tidings such as these, knowing as I do, what an anxious time it will mean to you.
Yours Very Sincerely
L.G.Scharer
Squadron Leader.
(There is no copy of any similar letter to Fiancée Miss J.B.M. Richards in the Casualty File, so it is not known if one was sent to her. However Miss Richards had received the Telegram sent on the 13 April, then redirected to and received by her at the Hospital on 16 April, which had informed her that her fiancé was missing.)
20 April 1945 – Letter from Nurse Joy B.M. Richards c/- Nursing Staff, Public Hospital, Pt. Pirie to Air Force Headquarters, Melbourne ………… (quote)
Dear Sir
I wish to inform you that I have changed my address from “Roanoke” Box 1, Narridy, Sth Australia to the above address, so as you can notify me if you hear further word of Flight Sgt. Evans, N.V., RAAF "AUSPO” London.
Thanking you,
I am,
Yours in anticipation
(Nurse) Joy B.M. Richards
25 April 1945 – Casualty File records amended with new address at Port Pirie Hospital for Fiancée Nurse Richards.
1 May 1945 – Assessment at Rank F/Sgt, Mustering Navigator – Character V.G., Proficiency Category A Trade Skill – ‘Mod’; Category B (as NCO supervisor in his trade) – Satisfactory; not recommended for reclassification; signed by W/Cmdr P.M.Paull.
2 May 1945 – Cypher Message from OHQ RAAF Kingsway to RAAF HQ Australia ….. (quote)
AL 107 CAS 985 MAY 2 RESTRICTED
AUS 430788 F/SGT TAIT JM MISSING. COMMANDING OFFICERS LETTER SYMPATHY FORWARDED YOU 23 APRIL STATES CASUALTY OCCURRED NIGHT MARCH 10. REQUEST AMEND READ 10 APRIL.
(Message has handwritten annotation across it –“Evans, N.V. member same crew” however the letter to Evans’s Next of Kin had the correct casualty date 10 April 1945 – see transcription dated 14 April 1945 above.)
12 May 1945 – Cable from RAAF Overseas HQ London to RAAF HQ Melbourne …. (quote)
AL 696 CAS 117 12 MAY UNCLASSIFIED.
MISSING MEMBERS (.) FOLLOWING 27 (sic) MEMBERS REPORTED SAFE THIS COUNTRY NOW AT 11 PDRC BRIGHTON AUS 435342 HIBBERD M.J., ORIGINAL SIGNAL ON FILE 32/6/16 OTHER MEMBERS OF CREW MISSING: TAIT J.M., FRANK M., BALL A.D.J., EVANS N.V., TAYLOR R.R.
(Evans N.V. underlined in file, with additional handwritten annotation “missing”.)
16 May 1945 – Lettergram from Air Force, Melbourne to Mr G.V. Evans …………. (quote)
“INFORMATION RECEIVED THAT ONE AUSTRALIAN MEMBER OF YOUR SON’S CREW FLIGHT SERGEANT M.J.HIBBARD (sic) IS NOW SAFE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM STOP CREW CONSISTED OF EIGHT MEMBERS STOP REGRET NO NEWS OF YOUR SON FLIGHT SERGEANT NEIL VERNON EVANS OR REMANDER OF CREW”
16 May 1945 – Lettergram from Air Force, Melbourne to Miss J.B.M. Richards c/- Nursing Staff Public Hospital Port Pirie SA …. (wording similar to lettergram to Mr Evans).
Following is sequence of correspondence between Miss Ruby Stephens and 462 Squadron at Foulsham. (Neil Vernon Evans’s English mother was formerly Elizabeth STEPHENS before her marriage to George Vernon EVANS – more information is included in the genealogy section later.)
3 June 1945 – Letter from Miss R. Stephens, 42 Church Hill Road, Thurmaston, Leicester, no addressee on typewritten file copy made of the original ……. (quote)
Dear Sir
I wonder if you could please give us any information regarding F/Sgt Evans N.V. Aus.436113 as he is my cousin and he spends most of his leave at our home, and we have just received news from Australia that he is missing and we are anxiously wondering if there is any news of him. We would be very grateful to you if you could give us any news of him.
Thanking you very much,
Yours Faithfully,
Ruby Stephens.
5 June 1945 – Letter from Officer Commanding, No. 462 (RAAF) Squadron, R.A.F. Station, Foulsham, Norfolk to Miss R. Stephens, 42 Church Hill Road, Thurmaston, Leicester …… (quote)
Dear Miss Stephens
In reply to your letter dated the 3rd June, 1945, it is with regret that I have to inform you that no news has as yet been received by me regarding your cousin, F/S N.V. Evans.
I have however, forwarded your letter to R.A.A.F. Overseas Headquarters, London and if any further news comes to hand, they will, no doubt, communicated with you.
Yours very sincerely
? (Illegible initials)
5 June 1945 – Memo from F/Lt D.G.Highman for Officer Commanding, No. 462 (RAAF) Squadron, RAF Station, Foulsham, Norfolk, to The Air Officer Commanding, R.A.A.F. Overseas Headquarters ……. (quote)
Ref 462S/C.1714/18/P1
Crew of P/O A.D. Ball (Aus/427182) – Missing
Forwarded herewith is a letter received from Miss R. Stephens, who is enquiring re Flight Sergeant N.V. Evans (Aus/436113) who was reported missing from operations on the night of the 10th of April, 1945.
2. A copy of the letter forwarded to Miss Stephens is enclosed herewith and it is requested that any further action deemed necessary may be taken by your Headquarters.
Initialled by D.G.Highman
6 June 1945 – Letter from Miss R. Stephens, 42 Church Hill Road, Thurmaston, Leicester, no addressee on typewritten file copy made of the original ……. (quote)
Dear Sir
I have been in touch with the Red Cross regarding my cousin F/Sgt Evans N.V. Aus/436113 who was reported missing. They have told me that it would help them very much if I wrote to you and asked you on which day he was reported missing and if any other of the crew are missing as well, then they would get in touch with the Australian Red Cross and see if there is any news of him.
I would be very gratefull (sic) if you could supply me with any information regarding him.
Thanking you very much.
Yours Faithfully
Ruby Stephens.
15 June 1945 – Letter from Officer Commanding, No. 462 (RAAF) Squadron, R.A.F. Station, Foulsham, Norfolk to Miss R. Stephens, 42 Church Hill Road, Thurmaston, Leicester …… (quote)
Dear Miss Stephens
In reply to your letter dated the 6th June, 1945, I very much regret that I am unable to give you the information you require regarding Flight Sergeant Evans.
However, your letter has been forwarded to the A.O.C., R.A.A.F. Overseas Headquarters, Kingsway, London, from whom, no doubt, you will be hearing in the near future.
Yours
(no signature on file copy)
Following is sequence of correspondence between Miss J.M. Selvey and 462 Squadron at Foulsham.
4 June 1945 – Letter from Miss J.M. Selvey of 56 Duncan Road, Derby, no addressee on typewritten file copy made of the original ……. (quote)
Dear Sir
I would be very much obliged if you could give me some details as to the where abouts of an Australian Airman who was at your Station.
He came to see us on Easter Monday and stayed for a couple of days and we have not heard of him since. I was going to write before, but thought I would wait in case he had returned to his own country, but I am afraid we are worried now with not hearing anything and as you can well imagine we have wondered if he is missing from operations as he had just started his first tour. So I am writing in the hope that you will be able to enlighten us. I will put his number, rank & name at the end of this letter.
Hoping this will not cause you any inconvenience.
I remain
Yours Sincerely
(Miss) J.M. Selvey.
Aus/436113 F/S N.V. Evans, R.A.F. Station, Foulsham, Norfolk.
(See Leave Entry for 3 April – F/Sgt Evans’s leave commenced on the Tuesday after Easter, not Easter Monday.)
7 June 1945 – Letter from Officer Commanding, No. 462 (RAAF) Squadron, R.A.F. Station, Foulsham, Norfolk to Miss J.M. Selvey, 56 Duncan Road, Normanton, Derby …… (quote)
Dear Miss Selvey
In reply to your letter dated the 4th June, 1945, it is with regret that I have to inform you that Flight Sergeant Evans was reported missing from operations on the night of 10th April, 1945 and no further news of his whereabouts has as yet come to hand.
I have however, forwarded your letter to R.A.A.F. Overseas Headquarters, London and if any further news has been received by them, they will no doubt, communicate with you in the near future.
Yours very sincerely
? (Illegible initials)
7 June 1945 – Memo from F/Lt D.G.Highman for Officer Commanding, No. 462 (RAAF) Squadron, R.A.F. Station, Foulsham, Norfolk, to The Air Officer Commanding, R.A.A.F. Overseas Headquarters ……. (quote)
Ref 462S/C.1714/18/P1
Crew of P/O A.D. Ball (Aus/427182) – Missing
Forwarded herewith is a letter received from Miss J.M. Selvey, who is enquiring re Flight Sergeant N.V. Evans (Aus/436113) who was reported missing from operations on the night of the 10th of April, 1945.
2. A copy of the letter forwarded to Miss Selvey is enclosed herewith and it is requested that any further action deemed necessary may be taken by your Headquarters.
Initialled by D.G.Highman
9 June 1945 – Letter from Miss J.M. Selvey of 56 Duncan Road, Derby, no addressee on typewritten file copy made of the original ……. (quote)
Dear Sir
May I first thank you for your letter. I am afraid I expected the worst and I most certainly got it and my only hope is that there will be some news of him.
I am afraid I am rather a trouble to you, but I wondered if you could possibly let me have his home address, as I would like to write to his parents.
Once again let me thank you and say how very gratefull (sic) I am to you for the service you have rendered me.
I remain,
Yours Sincerely
J.M. Selvey.
15 June 1945 – Letter from Officer Commanding, No. 462 (RAAF) Squadron, R.A.F. Station, Foulsham, Norfolk to Miss J.M. Selvey, 56 Duncan Road, Normanton, Derby …… (quote)
Dear Miss Selvey
In reply to your letter dated the 9th June, 1945, I very much regret that I am unable to give you the information you desire regarding the parents of Flight Sergeant Evans.
I have however forwarded your letter to the A.O.C., R.A.A.F. Overseas Headquarters, Kingsway, London, from whom you will no doubt be hearing in the near future.
Yours
(no signature on file copy)
15 June 1945 – Memo from F/Lt D.G.Highman for Officer Commanding, No. 462 (RAAF) Squadron, R.A.F. Station, Foulsham, Norfolk, to The Air Officer Commanding, R.A.A.F. Overseas Headquarters ……. (quote)
Ref 462S/C.1714/18/P1
Crew of P/O A.D. Ball (Aus/427182) – Missing
Attached hereto are two letters received from Miss J.M. Selvey and Miss Ruby Stephens concerning Flight Sergeant N.V. Evans (Aus/436113) Navigator, who was reported missing from operations on the night of 10th April, 1945.
2. A copy of the letters forwarded to Miss Selvey and Miss Stephens are enclosed herewith and it is requested that any further action deemed necessary may be taken by your Headquarters.
Initialled by D.G.Highman.
(No further correspondence from or to Miss Ruby Stephens is mentioned in the files after this date. Later correspondence from Miss J.M. Selvey is mentioned on 27 June 1945.)
5 June 1945 – Cable from RAAF OHQ London to RAAF Melbourne …….. (quote)
“AL 50 CAS 391 5 JUNE STOP UNCLASSIFIED STOP AUS 430788 F/SGT TAIT J M MISSING STOP REQUEST ADVISE MR G W TAIT WHO HAS CABLED SQUADRON THAT AUS 435342 F/SGT HIBBERD M J CAN GIVE NO NEWS”
(Message has handwritten annotation across it – “Evans N.V.” and is included in his Casualty File.)
6 June 1945 – Lettergram from Air Force Melbourne to Mr G.V. Evans advising the detail of the cable received by them on 5 June 1945………. (quote)
“ADVICE HAS NOW BEEN RECEIVED THAT FLIGHT SERGEANT HIBBERD CAN GIVE NO NEWS CONCERNING YOUR SON FLIGHT SERGEANT NEIL VERNON EVANS OR REMAINDER OF CREW.”
6 June 1945 – Lettergram from Air Force Melbourne to Miss J.B.M. Richards at Port Pirie Public Hospital …. (wording similar to lettergram to Mr Evans).
27 June 1945 – Air Mail Letter from the Air Officer Commanding, RAAF Overseas Headquarters, Kodak House, Kingsway, London to The Secretary, Department of Air, Melbourne, marked BY AIR MAIL – IMPORTANT
Aus.436113. Flight Sergeant EVANS, N.V.
Forwarded herewith is a letter received by this Headquarters from Miss I.M. Selvey (sic) of Derby, with a request that same be passed to the next-of-kin of the above-named member.
Signed F/Lt R.S. Pitcher for A.O.C.
(File copy has handwritten annotation “Letter Sympathy Only – Forwarded 31/7/45”, so it must have been checked for content by the Censors. It is assumed that the person referred to was Miss J.M. Selvey who wrote two letters to the Squadron in early June 1945.)
28 June 1945 – Cable from RAAF HQ Melbourne to Overseas HQ RAAF Kingsway ……… (quote)
“UNCLASSIFIED AUS 430788 F/SGT. TAIT J.M. MISSING (.) SIGNAL URGENTLY PRECIS AMPLIFIED STATEMENT BY HIBBERD INCLUDING DETAILS HIBBERD’S ESCAPE AND AIR MAIL FULL STATEMENT EARLIEST (.) NEXT OF KIN PRESSING MINISTER”
(Message has handwritten annotation across it – “IMPORTANT” and is included in Evans’s Casualty File.)
29 June 1945 – Cypher Message from RAAF Overseas HQ, Kodak House, Kingsway, London to RAAF HQ Melbourne ……… (quote)
AL 625 CAS 689 29 JUNE RESTRICTED
AUS 430788 F/SGT JM TAIT MISSING. HIBBARD (sic) STATES “BELIEVE REST OF CREW KILLED WHEN AIRCRAFT CRASHED IN TARGET AREA. REST OF CREW PROBABLY UNABLE TO LEAVE AIRCRAFT OWING SPECIAL EQUIPMENT” NO OTHER INFORMATION IN STATEMENT RE TAIT. HIBBARD (sic) NOW EMBARKED FOR AUSTRALIA SUGGEST HE BE INTERVIEWED ON HIS ARRIVAL. COPY STATEMENT BEING FORWARDED FAST AIR MAIL”.
(Message has handwritten annotation across it – “Evans N.V.” and is included in his Casualty File.)
29 June 1945 – A copy of the 1st ex-PoW statement made by F/Sgt M.J.Hibberd before his embarkation from the UK is included in the Casualty File for N.V. Evans, but without any accompanying official letter, memo or cable. In other Crew members’ Casualty Files, this same statement has a covering Letter from RAAF Overseas HQ, Kodak House, Kingsway, London to The Secretary, Dept of Air Victoria Barracks, Melbourne.
3 July 1945 – Lettergram from Air Force Melbourne to Mr G.V. Evans advising the contents of the Cypher Message of 29 June1945 (please see entry above).
3 July 1945 – Lettergram from Air Force Melbourne to Miss J.B.M. Richards advising the contents of the Cypher Message of 29 June1945 (wording similar to lettergram to Mr Evans).
13 August 1945 – Cable from RAAF Overseas HQ London to RAAF HQ Melbourne ………. (quote)
AL956 CAS135 13 AUG (.) UNCLASSIFIED (.) WIRELESS HELD BELONGING 436113 F/SGT N.V. EVANS MISSING (.)
(Name, Rank and Service Number have been underlined on the copy in his file.)
21 August 1945 – Details of Will of Casualty recorded, with Category of Casualty “Missing on 11 April 1945” The Will was held by the District Records Office, Perth, WA, according to ‘Certificate’ dated 15 November 1942.
(No copy of the Will was included, only the details as listed herewith. The ‘Certificate’ had been filed at 4 R.D. on 15 November 1942, stating that his Will dated 14 July 1942 was held by District Records Office, Perth WA. See also previous entries on those dates.)
24 August 1945 – Air mail letter from The Secretary, Casualty Section, Department of Air, Melbourne to Mr G.V. Evans regarding his Son’s wireless in the UK ………… (quote)
Dear Sir
RAAF.166/12/174(26A)
With reference to the Service affairs of your son, Flight Sergeant Neil Vernon Evans, who is reported to be missing as the result if air operations on the 11th April, 1945, I have to advise that a wireless set owned by him is held at his former unit.
In view of the difficulty experienced in storing articles of this nature, and of the fact that it is not practicable to return them to Australia, the procedure adopted is to hold them for a given period from the date on which the member became missing. If he is then still posted as missing, such articles are sold and the proceeds are held on his behalf.
However, an opportunity is given to you, should you so wish, to nominate a person in the United Kingdom to take delivery of the wireless set instead of selling same.
It is pointed out that once the wireless set is delivered to a nominated person, this Department is unable to accept responsibility for any subsequent disposal action with regard to it. Should, for example, later sale or delivery to some other person be wished, any such action will be a matter for private arrangement between you and your nominee.
If it is desired to make such a nomination, it is important that this Department receive advice not later than the 13th September, 1945, as to the name and address of the person nominated. If a nomination is not received by that date, sale will be effected as abovementioned.
It should be understood that the procedure described above applies only to the specific item mentioned, and that all remaining effects will be retained in safe custody until your son’s fate is determined.
Yours faithfully
Secretary
(No copy of any reply from Mr Evans is included in the Casualty File, so it is not known whether the wireless set was transferred to someone in the UK, or sold by the Unit.)
30 July 1945 – A copy of the Statement by M.J.Hibberd taken on board H.M.T.S. “Andes” on 28th July 1945 prior to his disembarkation, is included in the Casualty File for N.V. Evans, but without any accompanying official letter, memo or cable. In other Crew members’ Casualty Files, this same statement has a covering Letter from RAAF Casualty & Repository Section, Sydney to RAAF HQ Melbourne.
28 August 1945 – Cable from RAAF HQ to 3 MRU requesting another interrogation of Casualty F/SGT M.J.Hibberd, and advising that (quote in part) …. “NEXT OF KIN TAIT PRESSING FOR DETAILS AND DESIRED PERSONALLY INTERROGATE HIBBERD” …..
(Copy of cable included in Casualty File of N.V.Evans.)
30 August 1945 – Letter from Wing Commander, Forward Echelon, Air Force Headquarters, Brisbane to Air Force Headquarters, Casualty Section, Melbourne
Ref: – 688/4/P1 INTERROGATION OF 435342 F/SGT HIBBERD M.J. REPATRIATED PRISONER OF WAR
The letter advised that F/Sgt M.J.Hibberd had made his statement at the RAAF Section of 112 AGH Greenslopes, Brisbane and a copy of the written statement was forwarded. The statement was signed by M.J.Hibberd at Greenslopes on 30/Aug/45 after his 4th official interrogation. (Copy of Letter and Statement included in Casualty File of N.V.Evans.)
19 September 1945 – Letter from F/Lt D.G.Highman, Officer Commanding, 462 (RAAF) Squadron, R.A.F. Foulsham, to the Under Secretary of State, Air Ministry (Archives), Hayes, Middlesex ….…….. (quote)
Sir
I have the honour to refer to the flying accident on the night of the 10th April, 1945 in which Halifax III aircraft serial number NA.240 was reported missing and to enclose flying log books in respect of the undermentioned members of its crew.
F/O A.D.Ball (Aus/427182) – Pilot.
F/O M.Frank (Aus/409523) – A/B. (error in service number – actually 409532)
F/S N.V.Evans (Aus 436113) – Nav.
W/O R.R.Taylor (Aus/432346) – W/Op. (Air).
F/S J.M.Tait (Aus/430788) – A/G.
Sgt F.Brookes (546437) – F/Eng.
P/O J.Heggarty (179888) – A/G. Spec. Operator.
I have the honour to be, Sir,
Your Obedient Servant
D.G.Highman, Officer Commanding, 462 Squadron, RAF Station, Foulsham
(It is not known if Mr & Mrs Evans claimed their son’s logbook. Survivor and ex-PoW Rear Air Gunner F/Sgt M.J.Hibberd (Aus/435342) had reclaimed his log book which is still with his family.)
19 October 1945 – Air Mail letter from The Secretary, Casualty Section, Department of Air, Melbourne to Mr G.V. Evans
RAAF 166/12/174(32A)
This quite lengthy letter detailed information obtained from the 4 interrogations of ex-PoW F/Sgt M.J.Hibberd. In the letter Mr Evans was advised that F/Sgt Hibberd did not see any member of the crew after the aircraft was hit and did not see any wreckage of the aircraft. However after he had been taken PoW, and while being questioned in captivity, he had observed the round identity disc of N.V. Evans on the table in the interrogation room (as well as undamaged identity cards belonging to three other members of the crew). The letter goes on to relate in detail, the various comments made by F/Sgt Hibberd over time at his four ex-PoW interrogations. The letter finishes …….. (quote)
“Enquiries are proceeding in Europe into the fate of all aircrews reported missing in operations, and if any trace of the aircraft or members of the crew is discovered the information will be conveyed to you. It is regretted that more definite information as to your son’s fate is not available.”
Yours faithfully
12 November 1945 – Air Mail letter from The Secretary, Casualty Section, Department of Air, Melbourne to Mr G.V. Evans
RAAF 166/12/174(34A) advising that no further news was available regarding his son reported as Missing in air operations. Official presumption of death was being considered, and would be advised at an early date. Mr Evans was to be advised of this date by letter and his son’s name would be published in a Casualty list in the Press.
20 November 1945 – Air Mail letter from The Secretary, Casualty Section, Department of Air, Melbourne to Mr G.V. Evans
RAAF 166/12/174(35A) advising that for official purposes, the death of his son was presumed to have occurred on 10 April 1945.
20 November 1945 – Letter from The Secretary, Casualty Section, Department of Air, Melbourne to Miss J.B.M. Richards C/- Nursing Staff, Public Hospital, Port Pirie SA reference RAAF 166/12/174(36A) advising that for official purposes, the death of her Fiancé was presumed to have occurred on 10 April 1945.
(Wording was similar to letter to Mr Evans. A handwritten annotation on the file copy of this letter states that the letter was returned on 4 January 1946 as “Not known at this address”. The original returned letter and envelope is also included in the Casualty File, with the envelope marked “Unclaimed” and “Not known at this address”. It is not known if Miss Richards was ever made aware of the official presumption her Fiancé’s death.)
26 November 1945 – “Application for the Issue of a Certificate of Death on War Service” (RAAF Form P/P 116) from Mr Geo. V. Evans to The Secretary, Department of Air, Melbourne, requesting the issue of one copy of a Death Certificate of 436113 Flight Sergeant Neil Vernon Evans for the purpose of “Collecting Life Insurance Policy”.
12 December 1945 – Casualty File Minute Sheet Entry 6. (Previous Minute Sheet Entries 1-5 relate to internal RAAF actions.)
“1 copy of Death Certificate 8126 dated 12/12/45 issued and despatched to Mr G.V.Evans, Victoria Park, WA.”
17 December 1945 – Service Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry From Records’ by Air Officer in Charge of Records, RAF.
21 December 1945 – Casualty File Minute Sheet Entry 9.
“Considered an appropriate case for the issue of a Royal message of Condolence, and message 8636 despatched to Mr G.V.Evans, Victoria Park on 21 December.”
4 January 1946 – Daily Casualty Report, Serial No. 635/45, F/Sgt N.V.Evans 436113, Mustering Nav B, Attached to RAF, now presumed dead by OHQ with effect from 10 April 1945.
4 February 1946 – Minute sheet recording Will information (Date of Will, and names of Executor and Sole Beneficiary).
30 May 1946 – Disposal of Casualty Effects, signed by Officer in Charge, Casualty Section.
Zone of Casualty …..UK
No. …. 436113 .. Rank….. F/Sgt … Name ……… EVANS, Neil Vernon
Deceased: …… Presumed Death with effect from 10/4/45; Single
Casualty effects held at Repository Store at: … W. Melbourne
Next of Kin: ….. Mr G.V. Evans … Relationship: ….. Father
Last known address: …… 15 Ashburton Street, Victoria Park, W.A.
WILL POSITION AS AT: 29 December 1945
“Certificate dated 15th November 1942 states Will held by District Records Office Perth.”
LATER WILL INFORMATION (if any) ….. Will dated 14/7/1942
Executor – …. George Vernon Evans, 15 Ashburton St., Victoria Park, WA.
Sole Beneficiary – …. Elizabeth Evans, above address.
RECOMMENDED THAT EFFECTS BE FORWARDED TO: ……. Sole Beneficiary, Mother, Elizabeth Evans, 15 Ashburton St., Victoria Park, WA.
DISPOSAL AUTHORISED: ……… As recommended above
Signed by Adjustments Officer on 25 July 1946, and counter-signed by Officer in Charge, Casualty Section on 31 July 1946.
24 June 1946 – Letter from Mr G.V. Evans to The Officer in Charge, Casualty Section ……. (quote)
Dear Sir
Would you please send me two copies of the death Certificate of my late Son Flight Sergeant Neil Vernon Evans, No, 436113.
As I am executor of his Will & need them to settle up his affairs.
Thanking you I remain
G.V.Evans.
27 June 1946 – Casualty File Minute Sheet Entry 11.
“2 copies of Death Certificate 8126 dated 27/6/46 issued and despatched to Mr G.V.Evans, Victoria Park, WA.”
28 June 1946 – Deposit Receipt 13585 for effects belonging to F/S N.V. Evans 436113, signed by RAAF Central Kit Store. The personal effects list was countersigned as being checked on 28 June 1946.
The list is headed – “Suffolk” 1089 1 Brown Suitcase” and is as follows …………. (condensed from original)
1 Brownie Reflex camera in box;
1 pr binoculars/field – glasses in leather case;
1 cycle chain in linen bag, 2 cycle pedals, 1pr cycle clips, 1 cycle pump, 1 cycle pump connection, 1 screwdriver, 2 padlocks, 2 locking-bars, 3 leather straps, 1 metal chain;
1 toilet case containing 13 articles (not itemised), and 4 small bandages;
toiletry items of 1 Valet safety razor in case, 2 razor strops (1 Valet);
various personal items including 2 coat hangers, 4 brushes, 1 electric iron & cable,1 leather money belt, 1 small travelling clock (broken), 1 travel first aid kit, 1 chipped bakelite torch & torch case, 2 metal mirrors, 1 pr sunglasses, 1 reading magnifying glass, 2-way electric socket, 2 electric fittings, 2 kit bag handles,1 table tennis ball, 1 black leather wallet, 3 darts, 6 coins;
1 linen bag containing 2 wrist watch (Coronet, broken), 1 leather wrist watch case/cover, 1 watch chain, 2 nail scissors, 1 compass in black leather case, 2 studs, 1 pocket knife, 5 Fountain Pens (2 Parker, 1 Arnold, 1 Conway Stewart and 1 green), 1 thimble, 2 Navigator’s brevet/badges, 1 identity disc, 1 metal name stamp;
1 linen bag containing 8 clothes pegs, 1 spoon, 1 broken knife;
clothing items – 1 grey wool pullover, 1 pr swim trunks, 4 prs socks, 4 handkerchiefs, 2 pr braces, 1 pr leather slippers, 1 vest/sports-shirt, 1pr trunks/drawers;
13 Books – Atlantic Meeting, Origin of Oxford, Modern Reading, The Greater Victory, Thomas Glasson, Baptists of Britain, Songs & Solos, Golden Thoughts, The Greatest Thing in the World, Intermediate Topic Book, Wayfarer’s Daily Message, Being & Doing, 2 RAF-RAAF;
1 Diary (addresses only), 1 World Pocket Atlas, 1 Australian Soldiers Pocket Book, 2 New Testaments, 1 Bible, 1 package/envelope of religious booklets;
1 Driver’s Licence;
1 loose leaf cover with group photos;
Additional Notes – 1 Utility radio set forwarded by Unit to R.A.A.F. Overseas Headquarters. (see previous correspondence re wireless).
P.O. Savings Bank Book, Cannon Pl., Kings Road No. 10201 extracted by Unit and forwarded to R.A.A.F. Overseas Headquarters.
Cash amounting to £1.3.9d and stamps value 2/2d. found amongst the personal effects has been credited to his service account, also U.S. $5.
Items extracted from the personal effects & despatched R.A.A.F. Overseas H.Q. London:-
1 exposed film
1 package photos, snaps & negatives.
(Note: there are 3 separate effects lists in the Casualty File –
1. an original handwritten list possibly taken when the effects were gathered by the “Standing Committee of Adjustment” soon after navigator Evans was posted as Missing – The handwritten list also noted that a folder of photos & negatives had also been extracted & marked “Security Mail”, most likely for checking by the official Censors;
2. A typewritten list with the “Additional Notes” as listed in the 28 June 1946 entry above;
3. A re-typed list, with carbon copy which was sent to Mr Evans for receipt and return. This list included those items detailed on the 2nd list, but without the “Additional Notes”. It included a folder of photos and negatives, so it seems they had passed the Censor.)
7 August 1946 – Letter from Officer in Charge, Central Repository Kit Store, West Melbourne to Mrs E. Evans, 15 Ashburton Street, Victoria Park, Western Australia ……. (quote)
RAAF 166/12/174(43A)
Dear Madam
With reference to the Service Affairs of your late son, Flight Sergeant Neil Vernon Evans, I desire to inform you that his personal effects as shown on the attached inventory have been received by Royal Australian Air Force Central Repository, West Melbourne, from the United Kingdom, and are being forwarded to you under separate cover.
I shall be glad if you will kindly acknowledge receipt of the effects referred to by signing the form of receipt endorsed on the duplicate copy of the inventory and returning same to this Headquarters in due course.
Yours faithfully
Officer in Charge, Central Repository.
8 August 1946 – Casualty File Minute Sheet Entry 12 from RAAF Central Repository Kit Store.
“Personal effects ref. to encl 43A sent to Spencer St., for del. by Goods Rl. to c/o 5 P.D. W.A. for onward del. to Mrs E. Evans WA, DD3446, P/N S814548 on 7 August 1946.”
Undated 1946 – Inventory receipt signed by Geo. V. Evan
Inventory – 1 suitcase containing those items as detailed in the 28 June 1946 entry above, including the folder of photos and negatives, but excluded those other items listed under the “Additional Notes” category.
30 September 1947 – Exhumation of bodies of crew from cemetery at Zaasch.
2 October 1947 – Re-burial of bodies in British War Cemetery, Heerstrasse, Berlin, Plot IV, Row Z, Graves 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13.
14 October 1947 – Investigation Report from Berlin Detachment, No.4 Missing Research and Enquiry Unit, R.A.F. Germany – this report details the location, exhumation, identification and reburial of the crew. Body 1 was identified as that of F/S N.V. Evans by his “Navigator’s brevet” and allocated Grave 8 in Plot IV, Row Z. The other crew members were also individually identified and allocated individual graves.
28 February 1948 – Graves Registration Form 135672 F/Sgt N.V. EVANS, Aus/436113 462 Sqn RAAF, date of death presumed 10/04/1945, re-interred in the British War Cemetery (Heerstrasse), in the city of Berlin, Germany, Plot IV, Row Z, Grave No. 8 on 2 Oct 1947. The receipt for the Registration Form is signed and dated 30 March 1948 with notation “No previous burial information passed to N.O.K.”
(Navigator F/Sgt Evans’s grave 4.Z.8 lies between that of Bomb Aimer Flying Officer Murray Frank, 409532 RAAF, Grave reference 4.Z.7; and Pilot Flying Officer Alfred Desmond John Ball, 427182 RAAF, Grave reference 4.Z.9. The seven graves of Pilot Ball and his crew are located side by side in plots 4.Z.7 to 4.Z.13 – please visit the Berlin Graves page.)
12 April 1948 – Letter from The Secretary, Casualty Section to Mr G.V. Evans …… (quote)
RAAF 166/12/174(47A)
Dear Sir
I refer to previous communications concerning your late son, Flight Sergeant Neil Vernon Evans, and now advise that a report of his burial has been received from War Office, London.
The report states that as a result of investigations carried out in the Zaasch Cemetery it was established that the remains of your son and the other members of his crew who lost their lives were interred there. Zaasch is situated approximately 14 miles north east of Halle, Germany.
The remains of your son and his comrades have now been re-interred in the Berlin (Heerstrasse) British Military Cemetery, Germany. Your son is buried in Plot IV, Row Z, Grave No. 8 which is adjacent to the graves of his comrades. The re-interment was carried out by the British Graves Registration Service in accordance with the policy of concentrating the graves of service personnel into permanent British Military Cemeteries to allow better facilities for their perpetual care and maintenance by the Imperial War Graves Commission.
Your son’s grave has been marked with a temporary cross inscribed with his name and service particulars. At a later date the Imperial War Graves Commission will write to you in order to ascertain your wishes concerning the inscription upon the headstone to be erected to your son’s memory.
It is advised that no details have been received concerning the circumstances surrounding the crash of the aircraft and the subsequent recovery and burial of the bodies of your son and the deceased members of the crew. However, should any further information be received it will be conveyed to you without delay.
Permit me to assure you of the constant sympathy of this Department in the great loss which you have suffered.
Yours faithfully
12 April 1948 – Letter from The Secretary, Casualty Section to Miss J.B.M. Richards, c/- nursing Staff, Public Hospital, Pt. Pirie S.A. reference RAAF 166/12/174(46A) ……. (Wording was similar to letter of same date to Mr Evans).
(Sadly, and similar to correspondence of 20 November 1945, this letter and envelope was also returned to the Casualty Section, and annotated “No Action” on 10 May 1948. The envelope had been overwritten with 3 addresses (Unley, Woodville, and Adelaide) in an attempt to locate Miss Richards. It is not known if Miss Richards was ever aware of her Fiancé’s final resting place.)
5 July 1948 – Letter from RAAF Overseas Headquarters, Canberra House, London to The Secretary, Air Board, Melbourne forwarding a copy of Report No.4 Missing Research and Enquiry Unit dated 14 Oct 1947 relating to the recovery of the remains of the crew and means of identification. The letter also confirmed the receipt of the final graves registration forms as per the report (see 14 Oct 1947 entry, and 28 February 1948 entry above). It also added that Air Ministry had accepted Graves 11 and 12 respectively for Sergeant Brookes & Flying Officer Heggarty.
27 July 1948 – Letter from The Secretary, Air Board Melbourne to Mr G.V. Evans ……………… (quote)
RAAF 166/12/174(50A)
Dear Sir
I refer to this Department’s letter dated 12th April, 1948, concerning your late son, Flight Sergeant Neil Vernon Evans, and now advise that a report has been received from the Missing, Research and Enquiry Service operating in Germany.
The report, which is based on interrogation of local residents and investigations carried out at the Zaasch Cemetery, states that your son’s aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire, exploded in the air and crashed at Zaasch. The severity of the explosion was such that wreckage was scattered over a wide area.
The report adds, that the bodies of your son and the other six members of the crew who lost their lives were recovered from the wreckage by the Germans, and interred in a communal grave in the Zaasch Cemetery.
Following exhumation, it was possible to establish the individual identification of your son and the other six members, and their remains were re-interred in adjacent graves in the Berlin (Heerstrasse) British Military Cemetery. It is confirmed that your son is now buried in Plot IV, Row Z, Grave No. 8.
It is sincerely hoped that you will derive some small comfort from this more definite information concerning the sad loss of your son.
Yours faithfully
5 August 1948 – Letter from The Secretary, Air Board, Melbourne to Mr G.V. Evans
RAAF 166/12/174
The letter refers to previous correspondence dated 12 April 1948 (as above). This letter is almost identical to that of 27 July 1948 (as above) and concludes …………. (quote)
“You are again assured of the constant sympathy of this Department in your great loss.”
20 September 1949 – Letter from The Secretary, Air Board Melbourne to Mr G.V. Evans …… (quote)
RAAF 166/12/174(52A)
Dear Sir
I refer to previous communications concerning your late son, Flight Sergeant Neil Vernon Evans, who was laid to rest in the Berlin (Heerstrasse) British Military Cemetery, Germany.
A photograph of his grave is enclosed herewith.
The cross depicted in this photograph is of a temporary nature only, and is to be replaced later by a permanent headstone to be erected by the Imperial War Graves Commission which is responsible for the maintenance in perpetuity of the graves of deceased servicemen.
Yours faithfully
(A copy of the photo of the original temporary cross is shown below, and is similar to that of the crew’s Flight Engineer, Sergeant Frederick Brookes, which may be seen on the Brookes page.)
26 July 1950 – Letter from Public Trustee, Public Trust Office, Perth WA, to Department of Air, Melbourne ….. (quote)
re Estate of Isaac STEPHENS, deceased.
For administrative purposes, will you please forward a certificate of death of Neil Vernon Evans, formerly of this State, who died while on war service with the R.A.A.F.
Yours truly
Public Trustee
7 August 1950 – Certificate of Death on War Service No. 8126 issued by Director of Personal Services, RAAF Melbourne to The Public Trustee Perth, WA ...... (quote)
NATIONAL SECURITY (WAR DEATHS) REGULATIONS
CERTIFICATE OF DEATH ON WAR SERVICE.
I IVAN STANLEY PODGER, being the person for the time being holding the office of the Director of Personal Services, Royal Australian Air Force, a person duly authorised by the Minister of State for Air to issue certificates of death on war service for the purposes of National Security (War Deaths) Regulations, HEREBY CERTIFY that No. 436113 Flight Sergeant Neil Vernon Evans, while engaged on war service within the meaning of those Regulations became missing on the tenth day of April one thousand nine hundred and forty five, and for official purposes presumed to be dead.
DATED the seventh day of August 1950.
Wing Commander I.S. Podger
8 August 1950 – Casualty File Minute Sheet Entry 13
“1 copy of Death Certificate 8126 dated 7/8/50 issued and despatched to The Public Trustee Perth.”
There are no further documents in the Casualty File.
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