Honouring The Hudson Bomber Crew

The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch has ensured an important piece of wartime history will never be forgotten with the unveiling of a bronze plaque dedicated to the Hudson Bomber crew who crashed in the Hinchinbrook Channel on May 4, 1942, during the Battle of the Coral Sea.

The project, a year in the making, received strong community backing with thanks extended to the Fletcher family, the Far Northern District RSL, Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood and Councillor Chris Littlemore, who officially attended the ceremony in support. Along with Far Northern District RSL Secretary, Julie Tepaz, travelled from Cairns to attend the commemoration, and unveiled the plaque with Cr Littlemore.

The plaque serves as a reminder of how close the war came to Australia’s shores and of the sacrifices made by four young RAAF servicemen. The Hudson Bomber A16-162, caught in a tropical storm while searching for Japanese ships, crash-landed in the channel before being towed ashore at Cardwell’s main beach. Co-pilot Sgt James East tragically lost his life and was later laid to rest in Tully. Sgt Geoff Fletcher displayed remarkable bravery, rescuing his surviving crewmates from the wreckage in waters teeming with sharks and crocodiles. His legacy extends beyond the war, with his son Ken and grandson Dustin together playing a total of 664 VFL/AFL games for the Essendon Football Club (the Bombers).

The Hudson Bomber plaque now stands as a lasting tribute to courage, sacrifice and service. For more information, visit the Battle of the Coral Sea Memorial Park at 4 Coral Sea Drive, Cardwell.

Lest we forget.

Contributed with thanks by Robert Lang, President of the Cardwell RSL Sub-Branch.