Hindolveston Wellington Memorial
2.7 miles away
Norfolk
Foulsham (mid-air collision) Eagle" Memorial
Foulsham (mid-air collision), Norfolk
Partial Record
The Memorial
It is maintained by Foulsham Parish Council.
Type
Memorial stone
Inscription
Could you help us fill in the inscription?
LocationApproximate Location
Foulsham (mid-air collision), Norfolk, Norfolk
what3words: ///graced.wager.callers
What Happened
Operating over Norfolk on 31 August 1943, the B-17 Flying Fortress *Eager Eagle* (42-5376) of the 305th Bombardment Group, based at Chelveston, and a Beaufighter (V.8715) of 75 Squadron, based at Church Fenton, collided in mid-air above Foulsham. The collision destroyed both aircraft. Eleven men from the combined crews were killed; two survived.
Community Connection
Every memorial has a story — why it was built, who campaigned for it, and what it means to the local community. If you know the story behind this memorial, we would love to hear it.
Share this memorial's storyRemembrance
Do you know of any commemorative events or annual services held at this memorial? We would love to hear from local communities who remember.
Share remembrance informationAircraft & Operation Details
Aircraft Type
Beaufighter V.8715 and B-17 42-5376 "Eager Eagle"
Squadron
75 Sqdn Church Fenton / 305th BG Chelveston
Date of Loss
1943-08-31
Crew
11 killed; 2 survived
Memorial Care
parish council
Organisation
Foulsham Parish Council
Local Contacts
These local organisations are connected to this memorial and may be able to help with information or visits.
Reepham & District Royal British Legionbritish legion
Local remembrance and memorial support
Foulsham Parish Councilparish council
Local authority responsible for memorial upkeep
Further Reading
American Air Museum in BritainRetrieved 2026-03-23
Record for B-17 42-5376 'Eager Eagle' of the 305th Bomb Group, Chelveston. On 31 August 1943, the aircraft collided mid-air with Beaufighter V8715 over Foulsham, Norfolk, while both were flying without navigation lights during a red air-raid alert.
What you'll find: Detailed account of B-17 'Eager Eagle' mid-air collision at Foulsham, Norfolk in 1943.
Both aircraft were flying without lights due to a red alert. Collision at approximately 7,000 feet at 23:30 hours. Eight USAAF crew and one RAF passenger killed; two USAAF waist gunners survived. Both Beaufighter crew killed.
Heroes of Our TimeRetrieved 2026-03-23
Detailed account of the Foulsham mid-air collision and the story behind a memorial plaque erected at the crash site. The Beaufighter's steep turn brought it into the path of the B-17, severing a wing and tearing away two engines from the Fortress.
What you'll find: Explore detailed account of Foulsham mid-air collision and memorial plaque story behind it.
The Beaufighter was split in half by the collision. B-17 pilot Floyd Truesdell and co-pilot Allan McDaniel were among those killed. Bombardier Robert Barrall DSC was one of the most decorated men in the 305th BG.
Nearby Memorials
Sources
American Air Museum in Britain (retrieved 2026-03-23)
Heroes of Our Time (retrieved 2026-03-23)
Geograph Norfolk (website)
Credits & Acknowledgements
Record compiled by
Keith Binley
Last updated 2026-03-21
Do you have additional information, photographs, or corrections for this record? We welcome contributions from researchers, families, and local communities.
Suggest a correction or additionCan You Help Complete This Record?
This record for Foulsham (mid-air collision) Eagle" Memorial is partially complete. We’re looking for additional details such as crew information, photographs, narrative history, or source references.
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