Ockynge Cemetery, Eastbourne, East Sussex, UK. 21st December, 2017. On 20th December 1917 two British airships collided near Willington in East Sussex. Both vessels were attempting to return to their local base when they encountered thick fog. The collision caused Z7, Captained by Flight Sub Lt Richard Swallow, to burst into flame. Two of the crew managed to leap from the burning craft and despite terrible injuries survived. Tragically Richard Swallow was unable to escape and died in the ensuing crash and fire. He was buried on Christmas Eve 1917. Credit: Alan Fraser/Alamy Live News
The CWGC maintained Grave of Flt Lft Richard Swallow, the pilot of a 1914-18 war anti submarine and coastal patrol airship who died in collision with another vessel whilst trying to land in poor weather. Given his actions other members of his crew survived the incident.
Size: 3314px × 3006px
Location: Ocklynge Cemetery, Willingdon Road, Eastbourne, United Kingdom
Photo credit: © Alan Fraser / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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