![[F/O RJ Conti]](../../metz/choloy/pcholoy/choloy501.jpg)
F/O RJ Conti
Details:
1 Jul 1952 - F/O RJ Conti
F/O RJ Conti was was assigned with 439 Squadron at North Luffenham. He was killed when he experienced fuel exhaustion in Sabre 19187 and crashed into the sea.
Extracts from North Luffenham Daily Diary
1 Jul 52
F/O RJ Conti flying aircraft 19187 failed to return from a GCA practice flight and was reported missing.
2 Jul 52
No sign yet of F/O R Conti who parachuted dived into the North Sea off Flanborough Head yesterday at 1415 hrs. Search parties of the RAF have been busily engaged in trying to find some trace of the missing pilot or aircraft with no success.
4 Jul 52
F/O Conti of 439 Squadron not found and presumed dead. Search and Rescue units of the Royal Air Force have ceased action to affect his recovery.
7 Jul 52
Memorial Service conducted for Late F/O R Conti of 439 Sqn in the RC Chapel. OC attended and Adjutant were official representatives.
Additional detail from Michael Melnick
The son of John L Conti of Ladysmith, British Columbia. While stationed at North Luffenham, England, 15036 F/O Raymond "Digger" Conti of Ladysmith, British Columbia was killed when his Canadian F-86 Mark II Sabre Serial Number 19187 crashed into the North Sea while on a training exercise.
The following is extracted from the 439 Squadron Dairy:
The first of July 1952 was a black day. Flying Officer Raymond "Digger" Conti reported his compass was unserviceable, low on fuel and that he was preparing to abandon his aircraft. No trace has been found of either him or his aircraft.
F/O RJ Conti