RE Kevin Casey
Hello mate,
I was on 846 with Kev (we knew him as Ben). I was a PO Tiff at the time of the accident - in fact Ben slept in the bunk above me in the mess on HMS Hermes.
The aircraft was Victor Papa, Pilot was Sqn Ldr Bob Grundy.
The squadron was a close unit, and Kev was a well respected and liked by everyone.
It is a day that is probably seared in the memory of the whole squadron.
The aircraft had been moving stores between various ships in the fleet (vertreping - vertical replenishment). The aircraft was returning to pick up another pilot when the accident occurred. We only ever got the 2 stubwings and the floatation gear back - it was in deep water and it was not possible to carry out a full investigation of the wreckage.
There are theories (probably accurate) about what happened but no one could be certain. Maybe the other aircrew could give you more guidance.
The CO was Simon Thorniwell.
Regards
Andy