Memorial service for WW2 pilot held in Derby park Quote:
A MEMORIAL service organised by the Evening Telegraph to recognise the heroism of a Second World War pilot has begun.
Pilot Officer Aston Maurice Cooper-Key sacrificed his life for a group of young boys when he diverted his failing plane to avoid them.
The 21-year-old crashed into the railway embankment near Pear Tree station and died, 68 years ago today.
Witnesses to the event have gathered at Sherwood Recreation Ground, close to the scene of the crash, for a service led by the RAF.
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Name: COOPER-KEY, ASTON MAURICE
Initials: A M
Nationality: United Kingdom
Rank: Pilot Officer (Pilot)
Regiment/Service: Royal Air Force
Unit Text: 46 Sqdn.
Age: 21
Date of Death: 24/07/1940
Service No: 40802
Additional information: Son of Maj. Astleigh Langrishe Cooper-Key and Kathleen Juliette Cooper-Key, of Hythe, Kent.
Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead
Grave/Memorial Reference: Row 2. Grave 32.
Cemetery: SCOPWICK CHURCH BURIAL GROUND