Date: 5th July 1941
Time: 1.25 a.m.
Unit: 7 Staffel/Kampfgeschwader 26
Type: Heinkel He 111H-5
Werke/Nr. 4087
Code: 1H + FR
Location: Vallis Farm, Murdercombe Hill, near Frome, Somerset.
Pilot: Leutnant Siegfried Baden POW
Observer: Feldwebel Ernst Witt POW
Radio/Op: Gefreiter Ludwig Kugel POW
Gunner: Obergefreiter Eduard Köppl Killed
REASON FOR LOSS:
This aircraft was shot down by F/Lt Patten & F/Sgt Moody in a Beaufighter of No. 604 Squadron. Aircraft crashed at Vallis Farm, Murdercombe Bottom, near Frome Somerset. The tail of the aircraft was found two and a half miles away from the main wreck. This crash site was investigated by Philippa Hodgkiss and engine parts, labels, and other sundry items were recovered.
This aircraft took off from its base at 23.08 hours to attack Bristol aerodrome. One large bomb and a number of 50 kg bombs carried. The aircraft flew North-westwards and shortly after making landfall near Bournemouth was attacked by a night fighter which opened fire with cannon from astern. The crew of the Heinkel were taken completely by surprise, and no evasive action was taken though the radio operator replied to the fire with two short bursts. The Heinkel was hit in several places and the port engine burst into flames. The bombs were jettisoned and the pilot gave orders to bale out. The observer and radio operator landed safely, but the pilot sustained a broken leg. The gunner is missing, but it is probable that he perished in the aircraft, which was badly smashed and burnt out. (Source: A.I.1.(k) Report No. 345/1941).
Death notice in remembrance of Eduard Köppl (via Neil Webster), Eduard's shared grave at Cannock Chase, Staffs (ARS)
Burial details:
Eduard Köppl rests in a shared grave at the Deutsche Soldatenfriedhof Cannock Chase. Block 8. Grave 57.
Researched by Melvin Brownless (ARS) February 2009
