In the autumn of 1944, as the Allied air campaign over northern Italy intensified, Sergeant Ernest Finney of the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve took part in one of the most dangerous aspects of aerial warfare.

Born in Oldham, Lancashire, he was the son of Herbert and Elsie Finney. At twenty four years of age, he served as an Air Gunner, a role that required vigilance, courage and readiness to face the constant threat of enemy attack. Assigned to No 178 Squadron, he flew aboard the Consolidated B 24 Liberator, a long range heavy bomber engaged in night operations across the Mediterranean theatre. From airfields in southern Italy, his squadron carried out missions against enemy supply lines, infrastructure and strategic targets supporting German forces along the Gothic Line.

On the night of 4 October 1944, Sergeant Finney departed from Amendola airfield with his crew on a mission to attack a pontoon crossing on the River Po near San Benedetto. This objective was of critical importance, allowing enemy forces to move troops and supplies under cover of darkness. As the formation approached the target, it encountered intense anti aircraft fire. Despite the heavy resistance, the bombers pressed on and successfully carried out their attack.

During the return flight, Finney aircraft sustained severe damage as a result of enemy fire. The Liberator soon began to lose altitude and was seen descending in flames. Despite the efforts of the crew to maintain control, the situation worsened rapidly. The aircraft continued for a short distance before crashing into the village of Saletto, where the impact and explosion caused widespread destruction and loss of civilian life. There were no survivors.

In the aftermath of the crash, Finney and his fellow crew members were buried locally by those who had witnessed the tragedy. After the war, they were identified and reinterred in the Padua War Cemetery, where they now rest together in a collective grave.

As an Air Gunner, Sergeant Finney held a vital position within the crew, defending the aircraft against enemy fighters and remaining constantly alert in one of the most exposed roles aboard a bomber. On his final mission, he fulfilled his duty with courage and determination, alongside his comrades. Sergeant Ernest Finney was one of many young airmen who flew into danger and did not return. Though his life was cut short, his service contributed to the wider effort that helped bring the war in Europe to its conclusion.

He is remembered with honour.