TRAGIC LOSS RAF officer killed in mountaineering accident unable to ask for help because he had no radio
AN RAF officer killed in a mountaineering accident was unable to call for help because he did not have a radio, a military inquiry has found.
Wing Commander Gordon Henderson, 40, gave it to colleagues who descended after developing High Altitude Illness.
It is believed to have also affected the Afghan veteran hours later on 26,000ft Broad Peak in Pakistan in July 2022.
The engineer, of Dunfermline, was heading to base camp when he fell, according to a witness from another expedition.
His body has never been recovered.
An inquiry concluded fatigue and high altitude likely contributed to the father of two’s death.Mountain guide Francois Cazzanelli was just yards away from Wg Cdr Henderson when he fell.
The guide said at the time: “He lost his balance and he was spun forward. He slid for just a moment, then he fell head first.
“He disappeared without even crying out. I was speechless, rooted to the spot.”
Mr Cazzanelli climbed down the mountain to try and find the officer but only came across pieces of his clothing and equipment.
When he arrived at the expedition’s base camp he informed Wg Cdr Henderson’s colleagues of the accident.
The guide added: “They showed me a photo to check that the man I saw fall was really him. It was Gordon.”
An MoD spokesperson said: “Our thoughts remain with Wg Cdr Gordon Henderson’s family, friends and colleagues. The MOD welcomes the comprehensive inquiry report and is working to implement the agreed recommendations as soon as practicable”
No comments: