Families gather to open new AJ-A memorial

Members of the families of the crew of AJ-A join with Jan and Macy van Dalen and John Bell of the 617 Squadron Association after the unveiling of the memorial at Castricum aan Zee on the Dutch coast. This was the aircraft piloted by Sqn Ldr Melvin Young on the night of the Dams Raid. It was the fourth to attack the Mohne Dam and caused the initial breach which led to its collapse.

The monument was unveiled by Belinda Brown, cousin of front gunner Gordon Yeo, the youngest member of the crew and Geoffrey Sturr, nephew of Melvin Young, the pilot.

Two Dambuster daughters. Left, Jill Owen (née Nichols), daughter of Sgt Laurie Nichols, and Angela McDonnold (née MacCausland) daughter of Flg Off Vincent MacCausland.

The Young and Ibbotson families in the cemetery in the nearby town of Bergen where the crew is buried.

Len and Sandra Brown, representing the family of Charles Roberts.

The family of Gordon Yeo.

Angela McDonnold (née MacCausland)

Photos: 617 Squadron Netherlands Aircrew Memorial Foundation/Dambusters Blog

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6 thoughts on “Families gather to open new AJ-A memorial

  1. Georgina Murray May 19, 2018 / 9:14 am

    what a fabulous occasion it was, so exciting and moving to be a part of it. Thanks to all those involved in making it happen – the service, the memorial, the speakers, flyover and the lunch. Georgina and Jill Owen

  2. viv challice May 19, 2018 / 6:20 pm

    What a special day this was ,just wish i could have been there i am just so glad that Len and Sandra Brown were there to represent Charles,all of these men will never be forgotten

    • Michaela Davies May 17, 2020 / 4:18 pm

      Dear viv, I have just seen the postings of the Aj-A plane and noted a sam and len brown. They are related to Charlie Roberts. So was my grandmother, they were cousins.

      • Scott Williams May 8, 2021 / 7:47 pm

        Michaela, I am Viv’s brothers (Derek) grandson, therefore I am the great nephew of Charles Walpole Roberts. Len is related to Charles mother, whereas Viv and my grandfather shared the same father as Charles. If you want any info on our side then give me an email Scott.lee.williams@live.com

    • David Russell November 25, 2021 / 8:53 pm

      Need to make contact with Len and Sandra Brown regarding Flt Sgt Charles Walpole Roberts regarding a Dambuster AJA Lancaster model being made. David Russell Sheringham and District RAFA

      • Scott Williams November 26, 2021 / 4:42 pm

        What do you need to know? Charles Walpole was my grandfathers brother.

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