SAAF SQ 34 Liberator KL 367 F

In the annals of aviation history, few aircraft have stories as compelling and personal as the Consolidated B-24 Liberator, KL367 F of 34 Squadron SAAF. This article is a heartfelt tribute to that plane, a plane that not only made history but also a machine that ultimately “caused me to be born”…

In May 1945, the world was rejoicing the end of World War II with the arrival of Victory in Europe (VE) Day. Amidst this global celebration, the indomitable Liberator KL367 F, under the command of Major Roy Crampton, embarked on a journey that would etch itself into the history of aviation history. On 8 May 1945, the aircraft took off from Celone, Italy, making its way to Cairo West, then to Khartoum and Kisumu, finally touching down on 10 May at Zwartkops, South Africa (SAZ).

This wasn't just another mission, it was a homecoming for Brigadier Jimmy Durrant, the Officer Commanding 205 Group RAF. Accompanying him on this historic flight were an esteemed crew: Captains Val Andries, Sissing, and Coley, Warrant Officer Clarry Land, Lieutenant Roden, and Flight Sergeant Henneberger. Their journey exemplified the reliability of the Liberator and the steadfast dedication of its crew.

Now, allow me a personal aside. As the grandson of Wannie, the beam gunner on KL367 F during 1944/1945, this story holds a special place in my heart. My quest to uncover the history of this plane has been a long one. I recently discovered that, after its notable service, KL367 F was returned to the RAF and, like many great warriors of its time, was scrapped on March 12, 1947.

Reflecting on its fate, I can't help but feel a pang of nostalgia and gratitude—grateful that this “flying fortress¹” brought my grandfather home safely. After all, without KL367 F, I wouldn't exist to write this tribute. (On 17 July 2024, Wannie would have turned 99 years old. Here's to you, Grandpa!)

By September 1945, 34 Squadron had closed its operations at Celone, and all Liberators were returned to the RAF under the lend-lease agreement. Some were repurposed for troop and cargo transport, while others, like KL367 F, were struck off charge. Yet, the story of KL367 F was far from over.

The Liberator conducted a test flight on 31 May and another on 14 July 1945. It wasn't until 16/17 July 1945 that KL367 F departed SAZ, retracing its journey through Bulawayo, Nairobi, Khartoum, Cairo West, and finally back to Foggia (Celone). The steadfast crew, under Major Crampton, included Lieutenant van Rensburg, Captains Sissing and Coley, Warrant Officer Land, Lieutenant Roden, and Flight Sergeant Henneberger.

The full aircrew of SQ 34 SAAF Liberator KL 367 F, during its wartime service, was a remarkable assembly:

• Capt Val Andries - Pilot

• Lt Puxley (Pux) - 2nd Pilot

• Lt Clarry Land - Wireless Operator

• Pilot Officer Jeff Willis RAF - Bomb Aimer

• Lt Andy Anderson - Mid Upper Gunner

• Lt Bill Holden - Navigator

• WOII Wilbur Wannenburg (Wannie) - Beam Gunner

• Sgt Paddy Walsh RAF - Rear Gunner

Additionally, the ground crew, whose efforts were indispensable, included:

• Cpl Euverard Coetzee - Crew Chief

• Els - Engine Fitter

• Philips - Engine Fitter

• Van Niekerk - Engine Fitter

• Dodds - Engine Fitter

• Armourer and Ground Crew - Unknown

KL367 F's journey is more than a historical footnote, it is a tribute to the enduring spirit of the Liberator and the brave souls who flew her. This aircraft, the only SAAF Liberator to ever visit South African soil, symbolizes a remarkable era of aviation and serves as a proud chapter in South Africa's rich aviation heritage. Cheers to KL367 F, the plane that not only made history but ensured my existence!

Anton Wannenburg

1. I didn't mean "Flying Fortress" in a literal sense (this is why they are not written in capitals), such as the Boeing B-17. Instead, I used the term metaphorically. Referring to a plane as a "fortress" suggests that the aircraft is extremely strong, well-defended, and capable of withstanding significant challenges or attacks. It conveys a sense of robustness, protection, and durability. This metaphorical use implies that the plane is like a "fortress" in the sky, offering safety and security to those on board.
   
   So while the historical specifics are indeed important, my intention was to express a general sense of gratitude and admiration for the AIRCRAFT'S ROLE in safely bringing my grandfather and many others home from WAR...