In Memory Of

NORMAN-SMITH, PETER IAN

Service Details
Age:
29
Date of Birth:
-0001-11-30
Service No:
P1/35007
Rank:
Lieutenant
Unit:
2 Sqdn.
Regiment:
South African Air Force
Date of Death:
1951-12-03
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.
Commemoration
Grave Reference:
Panel 13
Cemetery:
UNITED NATIONS PUSAN MEMORIAL
Country:
South Korea
Additional Information
Name misspelled on Memorial as Morman-Smith. ref. 85 years of SAAF