News / Bristol
Memorial service to Bristol RAF pilots killed in World War Two
Thursday, June 6 2019 not only marks the 75th Anniversary of the D-Day landings but also the unveiling of a memorial in honour of two RAF pilots from Bristol.
At 9:40am on June 6 1944, Harold Henry Victor Roots was training Peter Marshall Cadman DFC at the RAF Lulsgate Bottom site when a fire engulfed the plane, sending the two war pilots to their deaths. Peter was a decorated veteran, having completed missions in Dusseldorf and Harold was an esteemed pilot and training officer.
Harold Henry Victor Roots in his uniform.
In their honour, Simon Roots, Harold’s cousin, has organised a memorial where a plaque and memorial stone will be unveiled. He said of the Harold and Peter: “They’ve been forgotten. They died serving king and country and deserve to be recognised.”
is needed now More than ever
Simon discovered the story after being inspired to research his family war history following a visit to Belgium and Ypres and members of the public are invited to honour their deaths on Thursday, June 6 that members of the RAF Association, Royal British Legion, local parish councillors and staff from RAF Abbey Wood will be attending.
The memorial will be located near the entrance to Freeman’s Quarry in Potters Hill and attendees will be directed by flags and RAF emblems. The service begins at 12pm and will last around half an hour and people are welcome to attend from 11.30am.
Photographs provided by Simon Roots. In the main image, Peter Cadman is second from the left.
Read more: Sikh War Memorial & Remembrance Garden officially opened
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