Lt M Liffen RN 737 Sqn, FAA

[alex crawford]

Hi,

On 6th April 1943 a Walrus, V2743, stalled and crashed near to Dunino in Fife killing the pilot, Lt M Liffen.

On checking the CWGC I found an entry for a Lt Maurice Robert Liffen, but he died on 10th September 1943. His unit is given as HMS Merlin, which was the RNAS at Donibristle, Fife.

Would anyone know if this is the same person? Did he actually survive the crash but later died of his injuries?

Any help appreciated.

Alex

[Atcham Tower]

Looks like your date is wrong, Alex. FAA Aircraft 39-45 says that Walrus W (not V) 2743 spun in on approach and crashed 1 mile from Dunino at Balkaith Ley Farm, St Andrews, Fife. Lt MT Liffen killed. 10 Sept 43.

[alex crawford]

Hi,

Thanks for the correction. The info I have comes from Scottish Airfields in the Second World War, Vol 2 Fife and Central Region by Martyn Chorlton.

The farm is called Balkaithly Farm and is about 3m SE of St Andrews and 1m E of Dunino.

I'm still trying to find a copy of FAA Aircraft 1939-45 as I have a number of FAA accidents that occured in Fife.

Thanks again,

Alex

[Atcham Tower]

Alex, PM me and add your email address if you want to me to look up any others for you.

Dave Smith

[Atcham Tower]

I've just looked on abebooks and am horrified to see that there are secondhand copies available from £245 up to about £350!

[alex crawford]

Hi,

I don't mind buying books to aid my research but there is a limit to what I'm prepared, or allowed , to spend.

I'll drop you a PM later tonight our guests have just arrived.

Alex