Can anyone help with the following?
I am keen to find out more about (& to properly initiate a memorial to) a heroic and (I believe) un-commemorated Polish pilot, who in 1944 I understand, attempted to save Uckfield from a V1 “Doodlebug” flying bomb and in so doing, made the ultimate sacrifice.
The V1’s engine had cut-out and was heading towards Uckfield East Sussex when the Polish pilot closed upon it. After emptying his guns in an unsuccessful attempt to blow it up, he took the dangerous decision to “tip” it with his wing. Whilst doing so, the V1 unexpectedly exploded.
It is understood that the wreckage of the fighter and the remains of its pilot, landed on the high ground to the South of Harcourt Road.
I would dearly like to make sure that a memorial to this brave young man is put in place within Uckfield in time for the 70th anniversary of VE day.
Can you help? Was this young Polish flyer one of those based at Chailey? All information gratefully and respectfully received.
By: Arabella-Cox - 3rd March 2014 at 21:32
Nice image, Gerry.
Thanks for posting.
By: hampden98 - 3rd March 2014 at 17:12
I thought that when a V1 engine cut out the aircraft would nose over into a dive?
Wasn’t there a mechanism that prevented the V1 overflying it’s target. So when the prop counter wound down to zero
a mechanism (guillotine) activated that cut the fuel lines and control wires causing the V1 to nose over?
By: gedburke3 - 3rd March 2014 at 14:52
Hi all,
I can help with a decent photograph of Eugene Seghers taken whilst he was with 46 squadron in 1940.
Gerry[ATTACH=CONFIG]226037[/ATTACH]
By: Arabella-Cox - 3rd March 2014 at 11:03
You are welcome to call me if I can help, Sewell01.
By: Sewell01 - 3rd March 2014 at 10:53
With just 4.5 months until the 70th anniversary of Seghers death, please can I ask all interested parties to join the following group….
https://www.facebook.com/groups/421564381267684/
I’m willing and able to do a lot to make this happen, I’ve been working away behind the scenes for the past 2 years, but at present it’s in the hands of Duncan Bennett.
If I do get permission to take over, I’d really appreciate any input that you guys can offer !!!!
By: Arabella-Cox - 13th March 2013 at 11:02
Emma
I will be delighted to help with this worthwhile project and am on the trail of Eugene Seghers family for you.
I may have news in a day or two.
By: Emma - 12th March 2013 at 13:47
Andy,
Email sent from a very snowy Sussex!
By: trumper - 11th March 2013 at 22:55
Was the brave pilot bought down by the v1 anti tipping explosive device?
By: Arabella-Cox - 11th March 2013 at 21:45
Emma
Look forward to hearing from you and will be pleased to help.
I am in a snow-bound little village near Battle. Only a few miles away, and often through Uckfield area.
By: Emma - 11th March 2013 at 11:18
D1556 – I will certainly keep you updated and hopefully a memorial picture will appear on here at some point 🙂
Andy – will send you an email in due course. I shouldn’t imagine I am that far from you – four miles outside Uckfield.
By: Arabella-Cox - 11th March 2013 at 07:24
Emma
If you click on the link at the bottom of my post you will find my e-mail address or you can PM me. I suspect we do not live too far away from each other?
D1566
Yes. I was slacking a bit….
By: D1566 - 11th March 2013 at 01:50
16 minutes Mr Saunders – losing your touch? 😀
Emma – wonderful that this pilot will not be forgotten, please keep us updated!
By: Emma - 10th March 2013 at 23:38
Andy,
Thanks so much! The original message was initiated by a local resident in Uckfield who wanted to find out more and attempt to have a memorial put up in memory of this pilot. It grabbed my attention as I am an avid amateur historian and was keen to learn more and help him where I can. Your information will be greedily and gratefully digested 😀
It would be wonderful if you could provide pics etc. Perhaps I could PM you my email address and chat that way?
Emma
By: Arabella-Cox - 10th March 2013 at 22:51
Emma. He was Belgian, not Polish. The date was 26 July 1944, Flt Lt Eugene Seghers of 91 Squadron in Spitfire RM743. I think it happened between East Hoathly and Ridgewood. I found the seat armour in an allotment at Ridgewood in about 1971. I will have the Police report on the incident somewhere and have other information including photographs of Eugene.
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March 10, 2013 at 10:35 pm