Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

The Ellington DV 800 Aircraft was detailed to carry out a day operational cross country flight.  The last message received was at 12.06 hours on 19th July 1942, since that time nothing further has been heard.  Weather at the time was considered fairly good.  The cause of the accident is unknown however it is believed that the wireless became unserviceable shortly after mid-day during the flight, and that the pilot decided to fly below the clouds to check his position.  The aircraft was off its course, and in coming down through the clouds it struck Mount Snowden.  All members of the crew were killed instantaneously.

Son of Oliver Ernest and Hilda Grace Longbottom, of Riverton, South Australia.

Educated at Riverton Public Shool and Riverton High School he was house captain and an accountancy student. Eric passed his Intermediate Certificate in November 1932 with subjects of English Literature, Arithmetic, Mathematics part II, Physics, Cheistry and Drawing but failed the sujects of Latin, and Mathematics part I. He enjoyed Athletics, Football, Cricket Tennis and Golf gaining valuable trophies.  A Methodist Church officer and Sunday School superintendent, he was also a 3rd degree officer in the Order of Knights.   In civilian life he was on the staff of the Riverton Stores and enlisted in March 1941.  Commencing training at Somers in March he then went to Western Junction in Tasmania and Point Cook.  He gained his 'Wings' in August and left for England in November 1941.

HONOURED AND REMEMBERED BY LOVED ONES AT HOME. IN GOD'S CARE