"Green Island Tragedy" Survivor dies

[Dave Homewood]

I'm sad to see that one of the few surviving participants in what was an attempt to rescue Corsair pilot Frank Keefe from Simpson Harbour, Rabaul, has died.

The incident where Frank Keefe was shot down and the members of No's 2, 6, 14 and 16 Squadrons mounted a disastrous rescue effort is well documented, particularly by Bryan Cox, and has become known as the Green Island Tragedy or Green island Affair due to the fact the squadrons were based there.

Ron Lindsey, then a Warrant Officer, flew a No. 2 (BR) Squadron Lockheed Venturas during the rescue bid, flying at wave top level lead in by Sqn ldr Paul Green in his Corsair, and the Ventura crew dropped Keefe two liferafts accurately. However Keefe no longer had the strength to reach them.

Ron has passed away aged 89. Here is his New Zealand Herald death notice. RIP

LINDSEY Ronald Fredrick. Pilot Officer, RNZAF. Service No. NZ421381 WWII. On December 30, 2009 peacefully in his 90th year. Much loved and cherished husband of Joan and loving and loved father and fatherinlaw of Judy and Clive, Diana and Warren. Granddad of Jason and Tori. The complete service for Ronald will be held on Tuesday January 5 at the Romaleigh Funeral Home, 31 Ocean View Road, Northcote at 2pm, followed by private cremation. H Morris Funeral Services.

• Published Friday, January 01 2010
• First Published Friday, January 01 2010

[John L]

Slowly, but surely, they are going..........All we can do is record as much information as possible whilst they are still with us (people like you Dave, keep up the good work), and mourn their passing.

[Luther Moore]

I had no idea he was still Alive,I wish I ccould of met him before he past away.

[Dave Homewood]

There are others still alive who flew on that day Luther, such as Bryan Cox and Leyton Stephenson, both of No. 16 Squadron.

[Luther Moore]

Thanks, Im keen to speak to 14 squadron vets.