The crash site of the ‘Maid of Harlech’ has become the first military aircraft site to be protected by Cadw for its national importance.

Cadw has decided to protect the Lockheed P-38 Lighting fighter aircraft, which crashed off the North Wales coast during the Second World War in September 1942, due to its historical and archaeological interest.

The American fighter plane, or the Maid of Harlech, is regarded as the best-preserved military aircraft site in Wales.

The aircraft is buried two metres under the sand and, while there are reports of sightings in the 1970s, it was discovered properly after emerging from the sand in 2007. It mainly remains covered by the sand, however, it was also uncovered in 2014.

The exact location of the aircraft remains confidential as it is covered by the Protection of Military Remains Act – disturbing the site in any way carries heavy penalties.

Second Lt Robert F Elliot, 24, was the pilot at the time of the incident. Originally from North Carolina, Robert was flying from Llanbedr on a gunner practice missions before he encountered difficulties and crash-landed.

The pilot survived, but was reported missing three months later after being involved in a flight attack above Tunisia.

Robert Elliot, nephew of the pilot, lives in Tennessee and is a retired US Navy serviceman and a member of the 49th Fighter Squadron Association. Robert made his first visit to Wales in 2016 and visited the site of the crash.

Of Cadw’s decision to protect the aircraft, he said: “I am honoured and delighted that Cadw has given official recognition of my uncle’s P38F as a scheduled Ancient Monument.

“My uncle was among those brave and expert fighters pilots who served with distinction during the Second World War.

“My visit to the site with my wife Cathy in 2016 was very moving and emotional. The 49th Fighter Squadron, to which this aircraft was assigned, has a rich and storied history dating back to 1941 and is still active today as the 49th Fighter Training Squadron.

“I look forward to returning to Wales and offer my support of this historic designation.”

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