F/Sgt Mal Russell (442507) was a Policeman at Renmark when he enlisted in RAAF Aircrew, completing his training at Victor Harbour, Parafield and Deniliquin. Posted to Operational training at Mildura, his Kittyhawk A29-130 crashed during a night take-off to the South on August 17, 1945.

According to F/Sgt Alan Banks, it was a pitch black night and F/Sgt Russell’s aircraft made a descending turn to the right before crashing. He was 22 years of age and about to be married.

Acknowledgement – F/Sgt Ken Wright (RAAF Comrade at 1EFTS Parafield)