A MEMBER of the Dambuster squadron who lived and grew up in Chepstow is to be commemorated to mark 75 years since the famous raid.

Flight Sergeant Bill Townsend CGM DFM, who as part of 617 Squadron flew Lancaster ED-886 codenamed AJ-0 in the famous dambuster raid of May 1944, is to be remembered, with a commemorative plaque to be unveiled next month outside his former home in Hardwick Avenue, Chepstow.

Born on 12th January 1921, Flt Sgt Townsend lived and grew up in Chepstow, and went to Monmouth School. Shortly after the start of the Second World War he joined the army, transferring into the RAF in May 1941.

After serving a tour as a pilot with 49 Squadron, he was posted to 617 Squadron, and later flew his bomber and crew in the third wave of the raid on the night of 16th and 17th May, with AJ-O tasked to attack the Ennepe Dam. With no anti-aircraft firing at them, they had time to do three trial runs before they released their bomb, but it failed to damage the dam. Forced to fly back at tree top level by enemy action, his Lancaster was the last to return. It limped home short of one engine.

He was awarded the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal and the Distinguished Flying Medal for his actions, and was later promoted to Flight Lieutenant.

A blue plaque, designed, made and donated by former mayor of Chepstow Councillor Ned Heywood MBE, is to be unveiled at the event, which will be held on Thursday 17th May.

The event will be open to members of the public, and a Lancaster bomber is set to fly over at 6.40pm.

On Tuesday 15th May, a free showing of the Dambusters film will be shown at the Drill Hall at 7.30pm, following the showing of a documentary at 6pm.