On 23 May 2019, personnel from Number LXX (70) Squadron, family and friends gathered outside the Squadron Headquarters, RAF Brize Norton, to remember the crew of Hercules C-130K XV193, who lost their lives in a fatal crash whilst training over Scotland in 1993. Wing Commander Lee Roberts, Officer Commanding No. LXX Squadron, led the tributes as a tree was planted in their memory.
The Royal Air Force Hercules, XV193, was one of three Hercules aircraft engaged in formation and low-level navigation training over Scotland. Having completed the formation element of the sortie, the three-aircraft separated for individual exercises, which, for the crew of XV193, included a simulated drop of a small cargo pack onto a dummy drop zone in a valley, eight miles north of Pitlochry. Having completed the simulated drop exercises and turned north to begin their egress from the drop zone, a rocky outcrop forced the crew to continue the left turn. After avoiding this obstacle, the crew elected to reverse their turn to enter the narrow valley of Glen Loch and regain the original route. In performing this manoeuvre, at low-level and low-speed, the aircraft crashed.
The planting and dedication of the memorial tree for the crew of XV193 was to promote the history and ethos of No. LXX Squadron and the RAF. It was organised to pass on the memory of those directly involved and affected by the accident to the next generation of No. LXX Squadron members and the wider force at RAF Brize Norton. It also acted as the final element of the move of No. LXX Squadron from RAF Lyneham to RAF Brize Norton.
“Today we remember the crew of XV193. Nine of our fellow airmen lost their lives on that fatal day. Today as we near the anniversary, it seems a fitting tribute to the crew and their families that we unveil this memorial in what is now our new home here at RAF Brize Norton.”
Wing Commander Lee Roberts
Officer Commanding No. LXX Squadron
The C-130 Hercules, affectionately known as ''Fat Albert'', is used as a tactical transport aircraft.
