The forgotten story of an Australian airman, lost for over eight decades, has reached its final, dignified conclusion in the Scottish capital. The remains of Sergeant William (Bill) Fisher, discovered by a homeowner in an Edinburgh garden, have been formally identified and laid to rest with full military honours.
The mystery began when the resident of Davidson's Mains unearthed human remains while carrying out landscaping work. This triggered a major investigation, combining modern forensic science with meticulous historical research to piece together the identity of the fallen serviceman.
A Painstaking Investigation
Authorities from the MOD's Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), also known as the 'MOD War Detectives', embarked on a complex mission. Through dental records, analysis of material evidence found at the site, and extensive archival research, they were able to confirm the identity as Sergeant William Fisher of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).
Fisher was just 25 years old when his Hampden bomber, based at RAF Kinloss, crashed in the area on the night of 28th October 1940. The aircraft was on a training mission when it is believed to have struck the ground, killing all four crew members onboard instantly. While three of the airmen were recovered and buried at the time, Sgt Fisher's remains lay undiscovered for 84 years.
A Final Farewell with Full Honours
In an emotionally charged ceremony at Edinburgh's Commonwealth War Graves Commission section of Seafield Cemetery, Sgt Fisher was finally laid to rest. Personnel from the Royal Australian Air Force proudly carried the coffin, which was draped in the Australian National Flag.
The service, organised by the JCCC, was attended by surviving family members who travelled from Australia to be there, finally providing a long-overdue sense of closure. A headstone, bearing his name and dedicated with honour, now marks his final resting place alongside his comrades.
This solemn event closes a poignant chapter from World War II, underscoring the enduring promise that no soldier is ever truly forgotten.
