There are very few, if any, words that adequately describe the loss of the last member of Dad's aircrew. Flight Sergeant T.J.K. Merchant the WAG of the Sumner crew passed away on Sunday, June 26, 2011 - 86 years of age.
With Ken's passing the last of five Ontario boys who crewed up together to form what Pilot Bill Sumner told me was "the best damn crew in the RCAF" is now gone. Bill said it was at OTU where he quote "got lucky- not in the vernacular of today ... but in the real sense of the word" because he felt that he had drawn and selected the best airmen and crew there was to offer.
Ken himself told me he was flattered when three Officers approached him and asked him to join them as their Wireless Air Gunner (but never to tell them!). I know they were just as proud to have Ken on the crew as he was to have them.
Ken and my Dad were the closest of friends on the crew because they were both NCO's and shared more than rank and quarters together.
Ken was always especially well liked by everyone maybe because his sense of humour, spirit and individuality helped to bond everyone together and cemented the team. He was always known by them affectionately as "Yogi" and throughout their lives they all recalled him with the greatest of affection. Bill always said that he wouldn't have traded anyone of the five original members for anyone else.
In the years since my own father's passing (9 years ago this July 7th) I have managed to assemble a fair bit of the crew's service history much through the memories and recollections Ken sent me throughout that time. With the aid of Linda Ibrom and Matt's terrific site this is preserved for family and generations to follow. In some aspect it provides an insight to the lives of all the young men (and women) who volunteered for service. The sacrifice they made (or were prepared to make) is part of the contribution so many expended in preserving and standing up for those ideals, the way of life and the freedoms we all value today. It is, as so many say, the passing of the greatest generation.
From their crewing up at OTU in the Fall of '44, the training process from Wellingtons at OTU through the Halifax at HCU and to the Lancaster they were seen safely through the War to V-E Day. For this they considered themselves some of the lucky ones because they knew of so many who were lost.
If there is a pub awaiting in the realm that comes after this one, I expect there are now five former flyboys who are hoisting a pint together in a happy reunion of crewmates.
Per Ardua Ad Astra - "Through Struggle to the Stars"
Bob-So sorry to hear the sad news of Ken's passing. Bought a lump to my throat. Having followed their journey via my research and the wonderful photo's and stories of the crew that you have provided,it really is sad to hear that another "last of the best" has gone. A sad time for his family and for you,as I know your dad's ex crew were a last link to him also.
Thank-you for your kind words Linda. I am so very grateful that through your efforts (and Matt's) the crew's "history" was able to be posted and preserved in this format. I know that the families have all been amazed and touched (as have so many others) that this site exists as both lasting memorial and a tribute to those that served and sacrificed their youth.
A friend and coworker recently vacationed in Scotland not a half hour's drive from the old aerodrome of RAF Elgin and on my request ventured and explored the country side for some time until after stopping at a local museum in Lossiemouth was provided directions to the old satellite airfield at Bogs O'Mayne. There in the fading light of what is now a farm field he took pictures of the beautifully preserved and maintained plinth and placque for No. 20 O.T.U. When I explained the significance of the memorial he told me it was his honour to do so. When I have the opportunity I will forward some of those shots to you as they are very nice.
Although I was not home at the time, my wife received a very nice phone call from Ken's son who informed us of the news and of the gratitude his Dad had for my maintaining frequent contact throughout the years and how much enjoyment that brought him. That, too, was my honour.
Memoriam Eorum Retinebimus - We Will Remember Them
Thank-you for that Matt. I am very grateful that two of the crew were around to see their profiles aboard your wonderful tribute website. They were both very much amazed at this and it never would have happened if not for you & Linda. I hope you continue the marvellous work.
Linda R Ibrom
