On 1st May 1944 a Miles Martinet from 771 Squadron at
HMS Tern, took off for a target towing exercise off the
east coast of Orkney, it is not clear as records have been
destroyed what really happened during that flight, but
according to locals the aircrafts engine was heard splutt-
ering suggesting fuel problems, and as it flew in low across
the east coast of Rousay, perhaps in an attempt to crash-land,
the aircraft hit the ground just below a hill and burst into
flames killing the two Royal Navy airmen instantly.
The serial number of the aircraft is at present not known
but from a process of elimination of Martinets that were
on charge with 771 at that time, it is likely to have been
MS617. S.o.C with 771 Sq 7/44.
Both crew are buried in St,Olaf`s cemetery, Nr Kirkwall,
Orkney.
PILOT: Petty Officer (A) George Herbert Abbott. RN.
TT Op: Leading Airman Alec Stuart Boar. RN.
Miles Martinet - Orkney
