Appeal to Trace Family of Bradford Airman Ronald Williams, Lost in WWII Bomber Crash

A historian from Germany is seeking the help of Bradford residents to trace the family of Airman Ronald Williams from Wibsey, who died during World War II.

Ronald Williams, son of Joseph and Laura Williams, of Wibsey, was one of five RAF crew members tragically killed when their Vickers Wellington bomber (serial number BJ973) was shot down near Süderlügum in North Frisia, Germany, on the night of February 19, 1943. Ronald, aged just 22, was buried initially with military honours in Tondern, Denmark, before being reinterred at Kiel War Cemetery after the war.

Historian Maik Petersen, who discovered the crash site near his hometown of Dagebüll with the assistance of eyewitnesses, now plans to erect a memorial in honour of the crew. After locating wreckage at the site, including fragments clearly identifiable as parts of the Wellington aircraft, Maik wishes to inform Ronald Williams’ family about the memorial and invites them to participate in commemorating their relative’s sacrifice.

Mr Petersen said: “It would be wonderful if Ronald’s family could know about the memorial. It’s important to honour these young men who lost their lives so far from home.”

Anyone from Bradford or beyond who may have information about Ronald Williams, his family, or relatives still living in the Wibsey area is encouraged to get in touch directly with Maik Petersen at: maik.petersen@gmail.com

Additional details about Ronald Williams and the crash can be found on the International Bomber Command Centre’s website: View details here.

Any help, no matter how small, could play a crucial role in reconnecting a family with this poignant chapter of their history.