Information from WW2 Nominal Roll website
Name – Ronald Reginald TAYLOR
Service – Royal Australian Air Force
Service Number – 432346
Date of Birth – 26 December 1919
Place of Birth – Punchbowl, New South Wales
Date of Enlistment – 5 December 1942
Place of Enlistment – Sydney, NSW
Next of Kin – John Taylor
Date of Death – 10 April 1945
Rank – Warrant Officer
Posting at Death – 462 (RAAF) Squadron
Roll of Honour – Punchbowl, NSW
The following information is 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 been taken from M.J.Hibberd personal papers held by his Widow, and also from the Taylor and Montgomery family records.
22 July 1942 – Application for Air Crew at RAAF No. 2 Recruiting Centre (R.C.), Woolloomooloo, Sydney, NSW. Date of birth was 26 December 1919. His private address was 38 Dudley Street, Punchbowl NSW. Next of Kin listed was his father, John Benjamin Taylor, of the same address. His marital status was Single; and he was a British Subject, of pure European descent, with both parents having Australian nationality at their birth. From December 1931 to December 1932, his schooling was at Lakemba Primary School; and from January 1933 to May 1936 at Canterbury Boy’s High School. He studied for his Intermediate Certificate (NSW Education Dept.) with exams in November 1935. He received his Certificate with ‘A’ Passes in Maths I and Science; Passes in Maths II, Business Principles and French, but Fails in Geography, History & English. His occupation since leaving school was Clerical Duties, and he was engaged as a Cost Clerk in a large manufacturing company (unnamed). He had also studied Accountancy as a correspondence course for approximately 2½ years (November 1937 to March 1940) through the Blennerhassett Institute of Accountancy, 66 Pitt St., Sydney. He indicated that he was prepared to serve for the duration of the war and up to 12 months thereafter. He answered No to having any flying experience and No to prior Naval or Air Force Service. He had served 3 months with Eastern Command Signals in 1940, but had since been released. Regarding experience in Wireless Telegraphy & Telephony, he admitted to not having any practical experience, but these subjects had been included in the Signals Training Course. He had no prior applications to join RAAF or Active Citizens Force; and no prior medical examinations for Air Force or Civil Flying. He had an interest in most sports, but in recent years had concentrated on playing cricket and tennis. His height was 5 ft 5½ inches, his weight was 9 stone 3 pounds, and his chest was 33 inches normal & 34¾ inches expanded. He had no prior civil convictions. The application for Air Crew Form P/P.80 was signed by Ronald Reginald Taylor without Parent or Guardian signature as he was aged 22 years & 7 months at date of application.
29 September 1942 – Oath to Serve signed at No. 2 R.C., Sydney, NSW.
5 December 1942 – Medical examination for RAAF at No. 2 R.C., Medical category A3B – Fit Air Observer or Air Gunner.
5 December 1942 – Attestation for Air Crew of Citizen Air Force, at No. 2 R.C., Sydney, NSW, aged 22 years 11 months, born at Punchbowl, NSW on 26 December 1919. Most of the details are as per the Application for Aircrew in July 1942, and listed above. He was a British Subject and his current occupation was as a Clerk. His physical description (with slight differences from the Application for Aircrew) was: Height 5 feet 5 inches; Weight 123 lb (= 8 stone 11 pound); Chest Measurement 31 inches normal, 34 inches expanded; Vision 6/6 both eyes; Complexion Fair; Eye Colour Grey; Hair Colour Brown; Religious Denomination Church of England; Small scar dorsum 3rd R toe, very faint scar medial side R knee. Ron signed the Oath on 29 September 1942, and the Attesting Officer and Ron both signed the Declaration on 5 December 1942. (See photo above taken at enlistment.)
5 December 1942 – Posting to No. 2 R.C., Sydney, NSW
5 December 1942 – Classification Air Craftman 2 (A.C.2) on enlistment.
5 December 1942 – Mustering Aircrew V on enlistment.
5 December 1942 – Posting to No. 2 Initial Training School (I.T.S.), Bradfield Park, Sydney, NSW.
31 December 1942 – Assessment at Rank A.C.2, Mustering Aircrew V – Character V.G., Under Training.
25 January 1943 – Re-mustered Aircrew V (G) at 2 I.T.S.
27 January 1943 – Special Leave, 13 days to 3 February 1943 (error in these dates, or in days total – 8?)
29 January 1943 – Qualified with Pass result, 35 (G) Course at 2 I.T.S.
30 January 1943 – Promotion to Leading Air Craftman (L.A.C.), (listed as being at 3 W.A.G.S., so possibly backdated).
30 January 1943 – Mustering as Aircrew V (G).
1 February 1943 – Posting to No. 3 Wireless Air Gunnery School (W.A.G.S.), Maryborough, Queensland, Course 35 (one record has this date as 4 February 1943). (Photos in previous section.)
3 February 1943 – Assessment at Rank A.C.2, Mustering Aircrew V (G) – Character V.G., Under Training.
3 February 1943 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by F/O (Adjutant) of No. 2 I.T.S., RAAF Station, Bradfield Park, Sydney, NSW.
23 April 1943 – Special Leave, Mid-Term, 10 days to 2 May 1943, No. 3 W.A.G.S. (Photo in previous section.)
16 July 1943 – Special Leave, Term, 4 days to 20 July 1943, No. 3 W.A.G.S.
22 July 1943 – Re-mustered Aircrew II (G) at 3 W.A.G.S.
22 July 1943 – Posting to No. 1 Bombing Air Gunnery School (B.A.G.S.), Evans Head, NSW, Course 35 (one record dates this as 26 July 1943).
26 July 1943 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by F/Lt (Admin. Officer) of No. 3 W.A.G.S., Maryborough, Queensland.
26 July 1943 – Assessment at Rank L.A.C., Mustering Aircrew II (G) – Character V.G., Under Training.
18 August 1943 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by F/Lt (Adjutant) of No. 1 B.A.G.S.
19 August 1943 – Qualified with Pass result, 35 (G) Course at 1 B.A.G.S. from 22 July 1943 to 20 August 1943.
19 August 1943 – Awarded Air Gunner Badge after Passing Course 35 while at 1 B.A.G.S. (one record lists this as a Flying Badge.)
19 August 1943 – Re-mustered W.O.A.G. (II) at 1 B.A.G.S.
19 August 1943 – Promotion to Sergeant at 1 B.A.G.S.
20 August 1943 – Special Leave, pre-embarkation, 7 days from 1700 on 20th August, to 0800 on 28 August 1943, No. 1 B.A.G.S., Evans Head, NSW. (Photo in previous section.)
20 August 1943 – Posting to No. 2 Embarkation Depot (E.D.), Bradfield Park, Sydney, NSW.
1 September 1943 – Service Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by F/Lt, for Officer in Charge of Records, RAAF.
10 September 1943 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by Adjutant of No. 2 E.D., RAAF, Bradfield Park, Sydney, NSW.
10 September 1943 – Posting to O/S HQ (UK).
10 September 1943 – Embarked from Brisbane, Queensland, Australia for the UK. (Travel photos in previous section.)
19 October 1943 – Disembarked UK.
20 October 1943 – Posting to 11 Personnel Despatch & Reception Centre (P.D.R.C.), Brighton, UK. (Photos in previous section.)
4 November 1943 – Privilege Leave, 7 days to 10 Nov 1943 while at 11 P.D.R.C. (Photos in previous section.)
24 November 1943 – Attachment to Whitley Bay. (Photos in previous section.)
6 December 1943 – Attachment to Air Crew N.C.O. School at Whitley Bay. (Is this a Non Commissioned Officer School?)
22 December 1943 – Qualified with 52% result, Aircrew N.C.O.’s Course at Whitley Bay from 24 Nov 1943 to 22 December 1943, while posted to 11 P.D.R.C. (Is this a Non Commissioned Officer’s course?)
31 December 1943 – Assessment at Rank Sergeant – Character V.G., Under Training.
3 February 1944 – Posting to 10 (Observer) Advanced Flying Unit (10 (O) A.F.U.), Dumfries, Scotland (other records date this as 7 or 8 February 1944).
7 February 1944 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by F/Lt (Adjutant) of No. 11 P.D.R.C.
8 February 1944 – Admission to S.S.Q., and transferred to Dumfries Infirmary on the same date, while posted to 10 (O) A.F.U. (Does SSQ mean Squadron Sick Quarters?)
8 February 1944 – Admission to Dumfries Infirmary, Scotland, until discharge on 25 April 1944 (total period of 11 weeks) while posted to 10 (O) A.F.U. (Photos in previous section.)
19 February 1944 – Promotion to Flight Sergeant while posted to 10 (O) A.F.U.
11 March 1944 – Re-mustered WOP/Air while at 10 (O) A.F.U.
25 April 1944 – Discharged from Dumfries Infirmary. (23/09/10 – Anecdotal evidence from living relatives – RRT was riding his bicycle at night to or from the base, without lights due to blackout restrictions. He had an accident, ending up in a roadside ditch, and was rescued by a woman who found him when passing by. He was hospitalised with a broken leg. This explains the 11 weeks in Dumfries Infirmary.)
27 April 1944 – Sick Leave, 5 days to 1 May 1944, while at 10 (O) A.F.U.
31 May 1944 – Privilege Leave, 6 days to 5 June 1944 (Form 678B), Free Travel Warrant D716195 issued.
6 June 1944 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by F/O at 10 (O) A.F.U. Dumfries
6 June 1944 – Posting to 27 Operational Training Unit (O.T.U.) Lichfield (same date as M.J.Hibberd). 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, 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. (Photos in previous section, and also on the page for 27 O.T.U.)
19 August 1944 – Privilege Leave, 7 days to 25 August 1944 (Form 678B), Free Travel Warrant F492910 issued.
25 August 1944 – Assessment at Rank Fl/Sgt, Mustering WO/Air – Character V.G., On Strength for Training only.
25 August 1944 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by F/Lt at 27 O.T.U., Lichfield
25 August 1944 – Attachment to Air Crew Training School.
25 August 1944 – Posting to 41 Base, Acaster Malbis, Yorkshire, UK (same date as M.J.Hibberd, and the other members of the newly formed Crew).
16 September 1944 – Privilege Leave, 5 days to 20 September 1944 (Form 678B), Free Travel Warrant F974871 issued. (Photos of Scotland in previous section.)
27 October 1944 – Privilege Leave, 10 days to 5 November 1944 (Form 678B), Free Travel Warrant G506416 issued.
7 November 1944 – Posting to 74 Base, 1652 Heavy Conversion Unit (H.C.U.), Marston Moor, Yorkshire, UK (same date as M.J.Hibberd, and the other members of the Crew). Training flight information while posted to 1652 H.C.U. (extracted from the logbook of Rear Gunner Fl/Sgt M.J.Hibberd) can be read on the M.J.Hibberd Service History page. No logbook is currently available for R.R.Taylor but it is assumed that as members of a newly formed crew, their logbook details would have been the same. (Photos in previous section, and also on the page for 1652 H.C.U. Marston Moor.)
31 December 1944 – Assessment at Rank Fl/Sgt, Mustering WO/Air – 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 RAAF, 100 Group, Foulsham, Norfolk. (Same date as M.J.Hibberd and the other members of the Crew. One of Taylor’s service file records has this posting as being to 462 Sqdn No. 4 Group which was incorrect, because 462 Sqdn RAAF relocated to Foulsham to join 100 Group in late December 1944.)
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 36 of 52 pages)
462 Squadron – Air Crew Arrival Form (Filled out by Aircrew in his own handwritten block letters – transcription of original).
Date – 16.02.45 on posting from – 1652 Con. Unit. Marston Moor.
On the Authority of – (blank)
1. Number – 432346 2. Surname – TAYLOR
2. Christian Names – RONALD REGINALD
3. Substantive Rank – W/O Date – 19.02.45
4. Acting Rank – Nil Date – (blank)
5. Decorations – Nil Date – (blank)
6. Type of Service – AIRCREW
7. Aircrew Category (in full) – WIRELESS OPERATOR AIR GUNNER
8. Types of Aircraft Flown – WACKETT, FAIREY BATTLE, ANSON, WELLINGTON, HALIFAX.
9. Courses Attended – NONE OTHER THAN AIR CREW TRAINING FOR W/OP AG
10. Date of Birth – 26th December 1919
11. If Married – NO Date – (blank)
12. Next of Kin a) Relationship – FATHER
b) Full Name – JOHN BENJAMIN TAYLOR
c) Address – 38 DUDLEY ST., PUNCHBOWL, SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
13. Additional Person to be Informed a) Relationship / NIL
b) Full Name / (blank)
c) Address / (blank)
15. Religion – C of E.
16 Medical Category (blank)
Operations while at 462 Squadron – please refer to the page for Rear Gunner Fl/Sgt M.J.Hibberd's Service History, which details logbook and Squadron ORB information for the Crew during their posting to 462 Squadron. No logbook is available for R.R.Taylor but it is assumed that as members of a newly formed crew, their logbook details would have been the same. A Group Photo of Wireless Operators, including R.R.Taylor may be seen on the page for 462 Squadron Foulsham.
19 February 1945 – Promotion to Warrant Officer while posted to 462 Squadron, Foulsham.
3 April 1945 – SLSA Privilege Leave, 7 days to 9 April 1945 (Form 678B), No Free Travel Warrant issued. (Leave for the same period is recorded in the RAAF Service Files for Pilot Ball & Bomb Aimer Frank 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. What does ‘SLSA’ mean? If you can assist with this abbreviation, or any of those above, please advise using the Contact page.)
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Casualty Details
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 – W/O R.R.Taylor Posted as Missing (one record dates this as 11 April 1945).
10 April 1945 – Death of W/O R.R.Taylor presumed on this date (see 12 December 1945 entry below).
11 April 1945 – 462 Sqdn ORB Form 540 – "............................. 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".
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 Australia & 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 – W/O R.R.Taylor posted to War Cas. N/E Accts (one record dates this as 14 April 1945).
11 April 1945 – Cable Signal PCX9 AUSCAS 571, from Air Min Kingsway to RAAF HQ, & RAAFLO OTTOWA. For IMMEDIATE transmission ..... (quote)
“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 file the following is underlined “AUS432346 W/O RONALD REGINALD TAYLOR (FATHER) JB TAYLOR 38 DUDLEY STREET PUNCHBOWL SYDNEY”.
(Target was Leipzig.)
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. 9450), initialled as being checked for Rank.
13 April 1945 – Telegram from Air Force, Melbourne, lodged Melbourne 5:30pm on 13th, and delivered at 9:30am on 14th April 1945 to Mr. J.B.Taylor, 38 Dudley St., Punchbowl, NSW, advising ……. (quote)
“432346 Warrant Officer R.R. Taylor missing stop regret to inform you that your son Warrant Officer Ronald Reginald Taylor 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.”
14 April 1945 – Letter from Squadron Leader L.G.Scharer of 462 Squadron to Mr J.B.Taylor of 38 Dudley Street, Punchbowl, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, confirming the Air Board telegram of notification of his son being missing ....... (quote)
Dear Mr Taylor
When you receive this letter, you will have already been notified by Air Board, Melbourne, that your Son, Warrant Officer Ronald Reginald Taylor, was reported missing from an operational flight from this country.
It is with deep regret that I have to confirm this, and I would like you to accept my profound sympathy in your great anxiety. The Squadron and myself held your Son in great esteem, both for his cheery and keen personality and for the efficiency and devotion to duty he displayed at all times. He has shown a great example to the Squadron and his absence is sorely missed by us.
On the night of the 10th April 1945, the aircraft, of whose crew your Son was Wireless Operator, took off for operations on enemy territory. This flight was one of the many courageous efforts called for from the Royal Australian Air Force and I know that it was undertaken with the efficiency and determination for which your Son and his crew were an inspiration to us all. Unfortunately the aircraft did not return.
Every possible enquiry has been made through all channels and so far nothing has been heard but as you will no doubt realise, it will take some time for possible information to reach this country from enemy sources. In the meantime, we can only hope that your Son and the other members of his crew are either in safe hands or prisoners of war.
All your Son’s personal belongings have been carefully gathered together by a committee of officers known as the “Standing Committee of Adjustment” and they will be forwarded to the Central Depositary of the Royal Air Force. In due course, you will be hearing from Air Board, Melbourne, concerning them.
Before I conclude, I would like once again to convey to you my deepest concern and sympathy for you in your great trial and the hope that the future will bring much better news.
Yours Very Sincerely
L.G.Scharer
Squadron Leader.
16 April 1945 – Letter from MR J.B.Taylor to the Secretary, Department of Air, Casualty Section, Melbourne ………………. (quote)
Dear Sir
Re 432346 W/O Taylor, R.R. reported missing on 11.4.45
The Service your Department has rendered on the above matter is appreciated and I am grateful for your kindly message of sympathy in my anxiety.
It would be appreciated if you would advise of the names and addresses of the next of kin of the rest of the crew.
The following is the last information received by me from my son regarding the names and ranks of the crew.
F/O Frank, Murray Bombardier
P/O A.Ball Pilot
F/Sgt M.J.Hibberd Gunner
do N.V.Evans Navigator
do J.M.Tait Other Gunner
Sgt F Brook Engineer
Yours Faithfully
Jno B. Taylor
25 April 1945 – Letter from The Secretary, Casualty Section, Department of Air, Melbourne to Mr J.B.Taylor, reference RAAF.166/39/540(6A) acknowledging receipt of his letter of the 16th April requesting names of next of kin of the other members of the crew. The letter went on to advise the Service number, current rank, names & initials of the other five RAAF Crew members, along with their Next of Kin, and the addresses of the Next of Kin (5 fathers, 1 wife, I fiancée). It also advised that the Department was unable to give the addresses of the Next of Kin of the 2 RAF members of the crew because that information was not held by the Department. However if Mr Taylor wished to correspond with them, it was suggested that he send letters to the Department together with the necessary instructions, and they would be forwarded through official channels.
26 April 1945 – Casualty Notification and Discharge Advice No. 396, Missing Air Operations, Target Leipzig Germany, 11 April 1945 (sic).
1 May 1945 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by F/Lt D.G.Highman (Adjutant) of 462 Squadron, RAAF (Foulsham).
1 May 1945 – Assessment at Rank F/Sgt, Mustering W/O/Air – Character V.G., Proficiency “A” WO/Air – Satisfactory; Proficiency “B” – Satisfactory. Recommended for promotion or re-classification. Signed Wing Commander P.M.Paull, of 462 Squadron. (Promotion to Warrant Officer had been received as at 19 February 1945.)
2 May 1945 – Cypher Message from OHQ RAAF Kingsway to RAAF HQ Australia ….. (quote)
AL107 CAS985 MAY2 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 –“Taylor R.R. member same crew”. The letter to Tait's Next of Kin had the incorrect date of 10 March 1945, however the letter to Taylor’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.
(Taylor R.R. underlined in file)
16 May 1945 – Lettergram from Air Force, Melbourne to Mr J.B.Taylor …………. (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 WARRANT OFFICER RONALD TAYLOR OR REMANDER OF CREW”
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 – “Taylor R.R.” and is included in his Casualty File.)
6 June 1945 – Lettergram from Air Force Melbourne to Mr J.B.Taylor 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 WARRANT OFFICER RONALD REGINALD TAYLOR OR REMAINDER OF CREW.”
7 June 1945 – Cable from RAAF Overseas HQ London to RAAF HQRS ………. (quote in part)
AL S CAS 426 JUN 7 UNCLASSIFIED STOP FOLLOWING BULKY ARTICLES HELD STOP BICYCLES BELONGING ………………………WARRANT OFFICERS ………. 432346 TAYLOR RR …………ALL MISSING STOP…………….
(Deleted are items and the names of their deceased or missing owners not relevant to Taylor’s file; the words bicycle, his rank and name Taylor underlined on copy in his file.)
11 June 1945 – Details of Will of Casualty recorded, with Category of casualty “Missing on 11 April 1945” The Will was dated 29 December 1942 and the Executors were his Father John Benjamin Taylor and his Mother Ruby Taylor, both of 38 Dudley St., Punchbowl NSW. The Beneficiaries listed were his Father, Mother, Brother, two Sisters and Friend. (No copy of the Will was included.)
15 June 1945 – Letter from The Secretary, Casualty Section, Department of Air, Melbourne to Mr J.B.Taylor regarding his Son’s bicycle in the UK ………… (quote)
Dear Sir
RAAF.166/39/540(15A)
With reference to the Service affairs of your son, Warrant Officer Ronald Reginald Taylor, who is reported to be missing as the result if air operations on the 11th April, 1945, I have to advise that a bicycle 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 approximately three months 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 and Mrs. Taylor, should you so wish, to nominate a person in the United Kingdom to take delivery of the bicycle instead of selling same.
It is pointed out that once the bicycle 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 7th July, 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
18 June 1945 – Letter from Mr John B.Taylor to The Secretary, Casualty Section, Department of Air, Melbourne in response to a letter dated 25 April 1945 supplying him with the names & addresses of the crew’s Next of Kin ………………. (quote)
Dear Sir
RAAF 166/39/540(6A) (W/O R.R.TAYLOR REPORTED MISSING)
I am grateful to your Department for the prompt attention and helpful information already given to matters in connection with the report that my son is missing. However I would deem a favour if you could supply me with the following information –
The present address of Flight lieutenant BARKLA.
Flight Lieutenant Barkla was in charge of the Wireless Operators of Squadron No. 462 (RAAF) Royal Air Force and according to a letter received from my son (written on 25/3/45) he is now in Australia. My son had a photograph taken just before his last flight and probably Flight Lieutenant Barkla would be able to give me the name and address of the Photographer who took my son’s photograph.
If you will be good enough, therefore, to advise me of F/Lt Barkla’s address it would be appreciated.
Yours sincerely
Jno B.Taylor
(Please see photo of Wireless Operators on the 462 Squadron page, with W/O R.R.Taylor in the back row and F/Lt Max Barkla DFC Signals Leader in the front row, approximately March 1945. It is not known for sure, but this may be the photo referred to in the letter above.)
25 June 1945 – Letter from Mr John B.Taylor to The Secretary, Casualty Section, Department of Air, Melbourne in response to a letter dated 15 June ………………….. (quote)
Dear Sir
RAAF 166/39/540 (15A)
The receipt of your letter of 15th June is acknowledged.
In reference to the disposal of the bicycle owned by my son, Warrant Officer Ronald Reginald Taylor, it is requested that it be despatched to the person named hereunder:
Mrs Wilson,
11 Cromer Street,
RUCHILL, GLASGOW, SCOTLAND.
Yours faithfully
Jno B.Taylor
(Refer to entry of 25 April 1944 above, and 23/09/10 Taylor Family anecdote – this Mrs Wilson is the lady who rescued him after his accident off his bicycle, which caused him to spend 11 weeks in the Dumfries Infirmary with a broken leg.)
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 – “Taylor R.R.” and is included in his Casualty File.)
29 June 1945 – Cypher Message from RAAF Overseas HQ, Kodak House, Kingsway, London to RAAF HQ Melbourne ….. (quote)
AL625 CAS689 29 JUNE RESTRICTED
AUS430788 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 – “Taylor R.R.” 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 R.R.Taylor Casualty File, but without any accompanying official letter, memo or cable. In F/Sgt J.M.Tait’s Casualty File this same statement has a covering Letter from RAAF Overseas HQ, Kodak House, Kingsway, London to The Secretary, Dept of Air Victoria Barracks, Melbourne.
29 June 1945 – Cable from Department of Air Melbourne to RAAF HQ Kingsway ....... (quote)
RESTRICTED 432346 W/O TAYLOR R.R. MISSING (.) MRS WILSON 11 CROMER STREET RUCHILL GLASGOW SCOTLAND NOMINATED TAKE POSSESSION BICYCLE REFERRED YOUR AL 278 CAS 426 JUN 7 (.)
3 July 1945 – Lettergram from Air Force Melbourne to Mr J.B.Taylor advising the contents of the Cypher Message of 29 June 1945 (please see entry above)
19 July 1945 – Letter from The Secretary, Casualty section, Department of Air, Melbourne to Mr J.B.Taylor ………………. (quote)
Dear Sir
I acknowledge receipt of your letter dated the 18th June 1945, concerning your son, Warrant Officer Ronald Reginald Taylor, who is missing as a result of air operations.
In reply I have to advise you that 407924, Flight Lieutenant F.M.Barkla is at present at 4 Personnel Depot, Springbank, Adelaide, and his home address is 10 Lyndock Road, Gawler.
I trust the above information will be of some assistance to you.
Yours faithfully
Secretary
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 R.R.Taylor casualty file, but without any accompanying official letter, memo or cable. In F/Sgt J.M.Tait’s casualty file 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)
…. NEXT OF KIN TAIT PRESSING FOR DETAILS AND DESIRED PERSONALLY INTERROGATE HIBBERD”…..
30 August 1945 – Copy of statement by M.J.Hibberd after his 4th official interrogation on that day, forwarded from Forward Echelon, Air Force Headquarters, Brisbane to Air Force Headquarters, Casualty Section, Melbourne, with covering letter.
7 September 1945 – Letter from RAAF Overseas HQ, Kodak House London to The Secretary, Department of Air, Melbourne ..... (quote)
NON-URGENT Aus.432346 Warrant Officer Taylor R.R. Missing.
With reference to your Headquarters’ signal L 62 PA dated 19th June, 1945, it is advised that the above mentioned member’s bicycle has now been delivered to Mrs. Wilson and that her receipt is held.
Signed Air Officer Commanding.
19 September 1945 – Letter from Officer Commanding 462 Squadron D.G.Highman, RAF Foulsham, to the Under Secretary of State, Air Ministry (Archives), Hayes, Middlesex ….…….. (quote)
“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
(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).
21 September 1945 – Letter from Mr J.B.Taylor to The Secretary, Casualty Section, Department of Air, Melbourne …….. (quote)
Dear Sir
432346 W/O R.R.Taylor – Reported missing.
Reference RAAF 166/39/540 (22A)
On 3rd July, 1945 I received a telegram from your Board stating, inter alia, that Flight Sergeant Hibbard (sic) “had embarked for Australia and arrangements will be made for him to be further interrogated when he reaches Australia”.
Flight Sergeant Hibbard (sic) returned to Australia on 28th July, 1945. As no further information concerning my son W/O R.R.Taylor has been received by me from your Board, and it is considered that sufficient time has elapsed to interview Flight Sergeant Hibbard, (sic) it would be appreciated if you would advise me of the result of such interview.
No doubt, you will realise how important any news of my son is to Mrs. Taylor and myself, and we have tried to be as patient as possible, knowing the great amount of increased work which has been placed upon the officers of your Department.
Yours faithfully
Jno B.Taylor
5 October 1945 – Letter from The Secretary, Casualty Section, Department of Air, Melbourne to Mr J.B.Taylor (RAAF 166/39/540(25A) ....... (quote)
Dear Sir
Receipt is acknowledged of your letter dated the 21st September,1945, concerning your son, Warrant Officer Ronald Reginald Taylor.
In reply it is advised that Flight Sergeant M.J.Hibberd has been interviewed and a statement has been obtained from him. It is not possible, however, to release the contents of this statement at present.
Your anxiety to know the circumstances of the casualty to your son is fully appreciated in this Department and you may be assured that the information obtained from Flight Sergeant Hibberd will be made available as soon as possible.
Yours faithfully
Secretary
19 October 1945 – Letter from The Secretary, Casualty Section, Department of Air, Melbourne to Mr J.B.Taylor (RAAF 166/39/540(29A)
This quite lengthy letter detailed information obtained from the 4 interrogations of ex-PoW F/Sgt M.J.Hibberd. In the letter Mr Taylor 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 undamaged identity card of R.R.Taylor on the table in the interrogation room (as well as other items 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 member 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.”
12 November 1945 – Letter from The Secretary, Casualty Section, Department of Air, Melbourne to Mr J.B.Taylor (RAAF 166/39/540(31A) 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 Taylor was to be advised of this date by letter and his son’s name would be published in a casualty list in the Press.
13 November 1945 – General Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ by S/L (Adjutant), of War Casualty (N.E.) Accts Dept.
16 November 1945 – Letter from The Secretary, Casualty Section, Department of Air, Melbourne to Mr J.B.Taylor (RAAF 166/39/540(32A) advising that for official purposes, the death of his son was presumed to have occurred on 10 April 1945.
3 December 1945 – Casualty File Minute Sheet “Considered an appropriate case for the issue of a Royal message of Condolence, and message despatched”.
12 December 1945 – Casualty Notification and Discharge Advice Serial No. 614 – previously reported missing and now presumed dead by O.H.Q., with Presumption of Death on 10 April 1945.
17 December 1945 – Service Conduct Sheet, certified ‘No Entry’ W/O, for Air Officer in Charge of Records, RAF.
7 January 1946 – Department of Air Minute from the Officer in Charge Casualty Section, to Officer in Charge Records, regarding an attached Application for Personal Particulars (Death Certificate) relating to 432345 W/O Taylor, Ronald Reginald Dec’d) for completion in duplicate, with original to be forwarded to the Applicant, The M.L.C. Assurance Co. and Duplicate to be returned to D.P.S. Casualty Section. (Stamped 14.1.46 Death Certificate despatched).
The Application from The Mutual Life and Citizens’ Assurance Company, Limited, also dated 7 January 1945, states ………… (quote)
Re Policy No. 3138131 & 3277025 – No. 432346 – W/O Ronald R., Dec’d.
We have a claim in hand relative to the abovenamed who lost his life whilst a member of the services. We should be glad if you would kindly forward us a certificate of Death on War Service, together with the following additional particulars of identity:-
1. Date & place of Birth
2. Name & address of Next of Kin
Thanking you in anticipation of an early reply on the subjoined form.
Yours faithfully
General Secretary & Actuary
(The form has been completed and signed on 17 January 1946, with the details required:- 1. 26/Dec/1919, Punchbowl, and 2. Father Mr J.B.Taylor, 38 Dudley Street, Punchbowl, NSW.)
15 January 1946 – Casualty File Minute Sheet “1 copy of Death Certificate 8378 dated 15/01/46 despatched to The MLC Assurance Co. Ltd. Sydney.”
30 January 1946 – “Application for the Issue of a Certificate of Death on War Service” (RAAF Form P/P 116) from Mr J.B.Taylor to The Secretary, Department of Air, Melbourne, requesting the issue of four copies of a Death Certificate, for the purpose of (quote) “finalising matters in connection with my deceased son’s Estate.”
20 February 1946 – Casualty File Minute Sheet “4 copies of death Certificate 8378 dated 19/02/46 despatched to Mr J.B.Taylor, Punchbowl.”
12 March 1946 – Department of Air Minute Paper from the Deceased Personnel Section, for Area Finance Officer, Melbourne …….. (quote)
Subject 432346 W/O Taylor R.R.
Hereunder are particulars for the assistance of the authorized person in determining, under the provisions of War Service estates Act 1942-1945 and the Regulations thereunder, the person properly entitled to the private effects of the abovenamed.
Executor or Administrator – John Benjamin Taylor (Father) and Ruby Taylor (Mother) of 38 Dudley Street, Punchbowl, NSW.
Date of last Will – 29th December 1942
16 March 1946 – Letter from Mr J.B.Taylor to The Area Finance Officer, Department of Air, Melbourne …………………. (quote)
Dear Sir
Re Later 432346 – Warrant Officer Taylor, R.R.
Reference No. D.432346
Attached you will please find authority for payment of moneys in connection with the above Estate, which I trust you will find in order.
Will you kindly advise me whether or not the amount of War Gratuity will be paid together with my late son’s Air Force Estate?
And also can you advise me what action has been taken to forward my son’s personal effects from England to us.
Yours faithfully
J.B.Taylor
16 April 1946 – Disposal of Casualty Effects, signed by Officer in Charge, Casualty Section ............ (quote)
Zone of Casualty ….. UK
No. …. 432346 Rank ….. W/O Name ……… Taylor Ronald Reginald
Deceased: …… Presumed Death with effect from 10/4/45; Single
Casualty effects held at Repository Store: ……. West Melbourne
Next of Kin: ….. J.B.Taylor Relationship: ….. Father
Last known address: …… 38 Dudley Street, Punchbowl, NSW
WILL POSITION AS AT: 3 January 1946
Will: 29th December 1942
Executors: Father John Benjamin Taylor and Mother Ruby Taylor, both of 38 Dudley Street, Punchbowl, NSW
Beneficiaries: …. “All clothing, jewellery and other personal effects of a like nature” to father and mother equally. Residue to executors to divide into 10 shares and distribute such shares as follows:
3 shares to Father
3 shares to Mother
1 share to older brother (name withheld at Family request)
1 share to older sister (name withheld at Family request)
1 share to younger sister (name withheld at Family request)
1 share to friend Boyd Geoffrey Bowa (sic).
RECOMMEND THAT EFFECTS BE FORWARDED TO: ……. Co-executor and one of beneficiaries – father John Benjamin Taylor, 38 Dudley Street, Punchbowl, NSW.
DISPOSAL AUTHORISED: ……… As recommended above
Signed by Adjustments Officer on 15 April 1946, counter-signed by Officer in Charge, Casualty Section on 16 April 1046.
(23/09/10 anecdote from Taylor Family – friend listed as beneficiary in the Will was Geoffrey BOYD (not Boyd Geoffrey BOWA), who was a work colleague and good friend of R.R.Taylor, prior to his enlistment. No actual copy of the original Will is in the Casualty File, so it is not possible to check for transcription errors between it & the Disposal Document of 16 April 1946 above.)
23 April 1946 – Deposit Receipt 21172 for 2 suitcases of effects belonging to R.R.Taylor, signed by RAAF Central Kit Store.
The list is headed – S.S.”Clan Farquhar” Case 1036, 2 brown suitcases. The list is considerable & includes ‘2 wrist watches unserviceable, and 2 wrist watch straps; a Kodak Jiffy Camera; Kodak lens in red box; 2 films; cycle pump, cycle repair outfit, cycle front lamp, steel mirror, 2 hand grips, cycle spanner (cycle items all no doubt belonging to the bicycle mentioned previously which was forwarded to Mrs Wilson in Scotland – see entries in June 1945).
The following articles had been extracted and forwarded to RAAF O/S HQ London (most likely for checking by the official Censors) –
6 Notebooks used as diaries, packet of negatives, photo album, packet photographs, snaps.
The handwritten list also notes that a bundle of correspondence had also been extracted.
Additional Note – 1 Cycle retained at Unit pending disposal instructions (see previous comments re bicycle).
Post Office Savings Bank Book, Cannon Place, Kings Road 8488 extracted by Unit and forwarded to RAAF O/S HQ London.
Cash amounting to £3.9.3d and stamps to the value of 3/2d found among the personal effects had been credited to his Service Account.
24 April 1946 – Letter from Officer in Charge, Central Repository Kit Store, West Melbourne to Mr J.B.Taylor …………….. (quote)
Ref RAAF 166/39/540 (40A)
With reference to the Service affairs of your late son. Warrant Officer Ronald Reginald Taylor, I desire to inform you that his personal effects as shown on the attached inventory have been received by the 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.
26 April 1946 – Casualty File Minute Sheet – Personal effects despatched by Rail from Spencer Street, Melbourne to J.B.Taylor, Punchbowl, NSW, Rail Consignment Note No. 230273.
26 April 1946 – Inventory signed by Jno B. Taylor. Headed S.S.”Clan Farquhar” Case 1036, 2 brown suitcases. Included are the Kodak Camera, Kodak lens, film, and bundle of photos, View, Greeting Cards, Postcards; cycle parts; and the watches as mentioned in the 23 April 1946 entry above.
29 April 1946 – Letter from Mr J.B.Taylor to Officer in Charge, Central Repository Kit Store, West Melbourne ……………. (quote)
Dear Sir
RAAF 166/39/540 (40A)
A receipt for a list of property belonging to my late son, W/O R.R.Taylor, 432346 is attached. The list has been amended on account of a watch belonging to the late F/Sgt. J.M.Tait, No. 430788 being included therein. I have forwarded the watch to the late F/Sgt. Tait’s father and have asked him to advise you of the receipt thereof.
Yours faithfully
Jno B.Taylor
3 May 1946 – Receipt of additional Personal Effects of the late 432346 W/O Taylor, R.R., signed for as being received at the Central Repository Kit Store, West Melbourne.
4 May 1946 – Receipt by Mr G.W. Tait for the watch forwarded by Mr J.B. Taylor was acknowledged on this date – please also see entry in the page for F/Sgt John Mickle Tait.
10 May 1946 – Letter from Officer in Charge, Central Repository Kit Store, West Melbourne to Mr J.B.Taylor ……………….. (quote)
RAAF 166/39/540 (42A)
Dear Sir
Receipt is acknowledged of your letter dated 29th April, 1946, concerning the effects of your late son, Warrant Officer Ronald Reginald Taylor, and I wish to advise that the effects forwarded to you were received by this Repository as belonging to your son.
Your action in forwarding the watch to Mr. Tait is appreciated and the inconvenience caused you is regretted.
Thanking you,
Yours faithfully
4 June 1946 – Letter from Officer in Charge, Central Repository Kit Store, West Melbourne to Mr J.B.Taylor ………….. (quote)
RAAF 166/39/540 (43A)
Dear Sir
With reference to the Service affairs of your late son, Warrant Officer Ronald Reginald Taylor, I desire to inform you that his further 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
5 June 1946 – Casualty File Minute Sheet – Additional Personal Effects sent for delivery by registered post to Mr J.B.Taylor.
12 June 1946 – Mr J.B. Taylor signed for the receipt of additional Personal Effects of the late 432346 W/O Taylor, R.R.
These items had previously been extracted and sent to RAAF O/S HQ London (most likely for checking by the official Censors).
1 photograph album containing photos,
6 small diaries,
1 pkt. negatives,
1 pkt. snapshots.
9 December 1946 – Communication from Officer in Charge of Records, Air Board, Air Force Headquarters, Melbourne to Mr J.B.Taylor regarding Log Book belonging to W/O R.R.Taylor. (This correspondence is missing from the Casualty File of R.R.Taylor, but is referred to in the next entry.)
20 January 1947 – Letter from Mr J.B.Taylor to Officer in Charge of Records, Air Board, Air Force Headquarters, Melbourne ……… (quote)
Dear Sir
163/66/534 (206634)
I am in receipt of your communication of 9th December 1946, regarding the flying log book of my late son (432346) W/O Taylor R.R.
Will you be good enough to forward it to me.
I take this opportunity to express my appreciation for the courtesy, prompt attention and kindly expressions of sympathy in all matter in connection with my deceased son’s affairs.
The services rendered by the administrative staff of the Air Force have been the means of helping Mrs. Taylor and me to bear the sorrow and shock we have sustained in the loss of our dear son. Please accept our grateful thanks.
Yours faithfully
J.B. Taylor
24 January 1947 – Handwritten annotation “Log Book fwd” on the letter above, however there is no official correspondence in the casualty file recording whether or not the log book was despatched to Mr Taylor.
28 January 1947 – Handwritten annotation “Copy placed on Appreciation File” added to the above letter from Mr J.B.Taylor.
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, RAF Germany – this report details the location, exhumation, identification and reburial of the crew. Body 4 was identified as that of W/O R.Taylor by his “form 1250 (R) with name F/S Taylor”, and allocated Grave 10 in Plot IV, Row Z. The other crew members were also individually identified and allocated individual graves. (Note – RAF Form 1250 (R) was the ‘Identity Card for all Ranks of the Royal Air Force, Women’s Auxiliary Air Force and the Dominion Air Forces’ with personal description of holder & photo inside.)
1 March 1948 – Graves Registration Form 135670 W/O R.R. Taylor, Aus/432346 462 Squadron 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. 10 on 2 Oct 1947.
(W/O Taylor’s grave 4.Z.10 lies between that of Pilot – Flying Officer A.D.J.Ball, 427182 RAAF, Grave reference 4.Z.9, and Flight Engineer – Sergeant F.Brookes, 546437 RAF, Grave reference 4.Z.11).
12 April 1948 – Letter from the Casualty Section to Mr J.B. Taylor advising that a report of his son’s burial had been received from the War Office in London. The letter advised that as a result of investigations, it was established that the remains of his son and other members of the crew had been interred in the Zaasch cemetery. His body had been retrieved and re-interred in the Berlin (Heerstrasse) British Military Cemetery, Germany in Plot IV, Row Z, Grave No. 10 adjacent to the graves of his comrades. The Grave had been marked with a temporary cross inscribed with his son’s name & service particulars. Later correspondence would ascertain the Family’s wishes concerning the inscription on the permanent headstone. It concludes ……….. (quote)
“Permit me to assure you of the constant sympathy of this Department in the great loss which you have suffered.”
The original letter received by Mr J.B. Taylor has been kept by the Taylor Family, and a photograph of it is included as follows. The letter may seem a little impersonal in that it has no hand-written signature.
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 1 March 1948 entry above). It also added that Air Ministry had accepted Graves 11 and 12 respectively for Sergeant Brookes & Flying Officer Heggarty.
26 July 1948 – Letter from The Secretary, Air Board Melbourne to Mr J.B.Taylor informing him of the Report No. 4 (see previous entry) and confirming that following exhumation, the remains of his son had been re-interred in Plot IV, Row Z, Grave No. 10 in the Berlin (Heerstrasse) British Military Cemetery. It concludes ……………… (quote)
“It is sincerely hoped that you will derive some small comfort from this more definite information concerning the sad loss of your son.”
5 August 1948 – Letter from The Secretary, Air Board Melbourne to Mr J.B.Taylor referring to previous correspondence dated 12 April 1948 (see above). This letter is very similar to that of the 26 July 1948 and finishes …………. (quote)
“You are again assured of the constant sympathy of this Department in your great loss.”
1 Oct 1948 – Death of Mr John Benjamin TAYLOR, after a short illness (Reference – personal correspondence included with a Christmas Card from Mrs Ruby Taylor to F/Sgt M.J.Hibberd, December 1950.)
25 October 1949 – Letter from The Secretary, Air Board Melbourne addressed to Mr J.B.Taylor enclosing a photo of his son’s grave in the Berlin (Heerstrasse) British Military Cemetery. (Sadly Mr Taylor was already deceased so did not see the photo of his son’s final resting place. This letter and photo would have received by his wife, Mrs Ruby Taylor, who lived until 1968.)
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Headstone Inscription for Wireless Operator – Warrant Officer R.R.Taylor, 432346 RAAF,
Grave reference 4.Z.10
(see photo on page for graves in Berlin)
(RAAF logo)
432346 WARRANT OFFICER
R.R. TAYLOR
ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE
10 APRIL 1945 AGE 25
†
Commonwealth War Graves Commission Casualty Details
Name: Ronald Reginald Taylor
Nationality: Australian
Rank: Warrant Officer
Regiment: Royal Australian Air Force
Age: 25
Date of Death: 10/04/1945
Service No: 432346
Additional information: Son of John Benjamin and Ruby Taylor, of Punchbowl, New South Wales.
Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead
Grave reference: 4.Z.10
Cemetery: Berlin 1939-1945 War Cemetery
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Medals & Badges
Air Gunners Badge (19 August 1943)
1939-45 Star
France and Germany Star
Defence Medal
War Medal 1939-45
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Australian War Memorial
Roll of Honour – Ronald Reginald Taylor
Service number: 432346
Rank: Warrant Officer (WO)
Unit: 462 Squadron
Service : RAAF
Conflict: 1939-1945
Date of Death: 10 April 1945
Place of Death: Germany
Cause of Death: Flying Battle
Source: AWM148 Roll of Honour Cards, 1939-1945 War, Air Force
Ronald Reginald Taylor’s name is located at Panel 109 in the Commemorative Area at the Australian War Memorial.
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Taylor Family Genealogy
Genealogy References:
Microfiche – NSW Pioneers Index Federation series 1889-1918 (No 156 Tate to Tenzer), Registry of Births, Deaths, and Marriages NSW;
CD – NSW Pioneers Index (Pioneers) 1788-1888
CD – NSW Pioneers Index (Federation Series) 1889-1918
CD – NSW Between the Wars Index 1919-1945
NSW bdm registry online.
Some information on family members has been kept private.
Summary as follows:
Paternal Grandparents of Ronald Reginald Taylor (RRT):
John Bonyge TAYLOR (variations in the spelling of his middle name) m. 1875
Harriet Jane TAYLOR (née HOOKER) m. 1875
Son: John Benjamin b. 1888
Maternal Grandparents of RRT:
Ralph POWELL m. 1887
Clara Lucy POWELL (née BARNETT) m. 1887
Daughter: Ruby b. 1888
Parents of RRT:
Father: John Benjamin TAYLOR b. 1888; m. 1914; d. 1948
Mother: Ruby Taylor (née POWELL) b. 1888; m. 1914; d. 1968
RRT and Siblings:
Brother b. 1914 (deceased)
Sister b. 1917 (living)
Ronald Reginald Taylor b. 26 Dec 1919; d. 10 April 1945.
Sister b. 1921 (living)
(Names withheld by Family request.)
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Connections with M.J.Hibberd
Ronald Reginald Taylor (RRT) was posted to 3 W.A.G.S. Maryborough, Queensland from 1 February 1943 to 22 July 1943 in Course No. 35. Maxwell James Hibberd (MJH) was posted to 3 W.A.G.S. from 22 June 1943 to 12 December 1943 in Course No. 40. They may have met at 3 W.A.G.S. during their overlapping posting period between 22 June and 22 July 1943.
RRT then trained as a Wireless Operator Air Gunner, to take the crew position of Wireless Operator, whereas MJH trained as an Air Gunner, taking the crew position of Rear Air Gunner.
RRT & MJH were both posted to 27 Operational Training Unit (O.T.U.) Lichfield on 6 June 1944, where they formed their crew based at Church Broughton satellite airbase. From then on, their records match with dates and places. Perhaps having met previously while training at 3 W.A.G.S., this was the basis for RRT and MJH to join the same crew.
They crewed together for just 10 months from after the 6 June 1944 at 27 O.T.U., until the crash of 462 Squadron Halifax NA240 Z5-V on the night of 10 April 1945 while on a Protective Patrol with the Main Force to Leipzig.
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