Pilot  P/O Anthony Thomas Ruskin-Rowe, 411389 (KIA)
Crashed  June 20, 1943

Aircraft History
Arrived in Australia on SS Hoperidge on Octiber 23, 1942. Delivered to RAAF during November 1942.

Mission History
Took off from Darwin Airfield at 09:10 on June 20, 1943 to intercept an incoming Japanese bombing raid. P/O Ruskin-Rowe was flying as Troppo Blue 2 to F/O Bisley (Troppo Blue Leader) and remained with his leader until the bomber force was attacked.

F/O Bisley led P/O Ruskin-Rowe into attack at 22,000', 10 miles North of Cape Hotham. P/O Ruskin-Rowe was last seen on the port side of F/O Bisley, making an attack on the bombers. After taking evasive action from attacking A6M Zeros, F/O Bisley found he was alone. It is assumed that Spitfire BS174 was shot down while making his attack. 45 Spitfires from No 1 Fighter Wing were also involved in this engagement.

Wreckage
Crashed 9 miles SE of Koolpinyah Station, and was converted to components.

Recovery of Remains
P/O Ruskin-Rowe was buried at the Adelaide River War Cemetery, Northern Territory, Australia.

References
Thanks to Daniel Leahy for this research
ADF Serials for aircraft history

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