Cause of Death: |
Died in Aircraft Accident, North American F-51 Mustang #341. Lt P. I. Norman-Smith was leader of four "A" Flight Mustangs returning to base, following a successful mission. After becoming disorientated due to cloud encountered, Lt Norman-Smith contacted Control and requested a course to steer to K-46. He was told to stand by, as Control was busy with another emergency. He then tried to contact K-14 and K-16 airfields, without success, but at an altitude of 1000 feet he noticed the Han River below them. The flight proceeded to follow the river, intending to land at K-16 Seoul. While approaching Seoul in clear weather, Lt Norman-Smith's aircraft was suddenly rammed by the No.3 aircraft in his flight, piloted by 2Lt K.R. Whitehead. Both aircraft promptly crashed into the Han River, their pilots being killed. |