A Collection of Medals to Second World War Royal Air Force Casualties

Three: Sergeant (Wireless Operator / Air Gunner) R. Burnett, 61 Squadron, Royal Air Force, who was killed in action when his Hampden was shot down by flak whilst on a bombing raid over Geestacht, on 29-30 June 1940

1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star; War Medal 1939-45, with named Air Council enclosure, in card box of issue, addressed to ‘Mrs. Burnett, 3 Mona Terrace, Hunslet Hall Road, Leeds 11, Yorks.’, extremely fine (3) £300-£400

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, A Collection of Medals to Second World War Royal Air Force Casualties.

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Ralph Burnett served during the Second World War as a Wireless Operator / Air Gunner with 61 Squadron from the outbreak of War. His operational duties appear to have begun in April 1940 when his crew participated in a sweep for German warships in the Skagerrak. He took part in 16 missions, including in the support operations for the Dunkirk evacuation.

Burnett was killed in action when Hampden P4356, piloted by Flying Officer G. M. Wyatt, was shot down after being hit by very heavy flak over the target area whilst on a bombing raid on the communications targets in Geestacht, on 29-30 June 1940. His captain was also killed, with the remaining two crew members being taken Prisoner of War

Burnett is buried in Becklingen War Cemetery, Germany. His medals were sent to his mother, Mrs. Mabel Burnett.

Sold with copied research.