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Men of the Battle of Britain
 9781473847675, 1473847672

Table of contents :
CONTENTS
Dedication
Foreword
Author’s Acknowledgments
Author’s Introduction
The Battle of Britain Memorial Trust’sIntroduction and Acknowledgements
The Men
The Memorials
The Squadron Rolls
Selected Bibliography
Glossary
Additional Images

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

A Biographical Directory of The Few

The Battle of Britain Memorial Trust is the custodian of the National Memorial to The Few on the cliffs between Folkestone and Dover. The Trust and the Memorial were founded by the late Wing Commander Geoffrey Page, who was shot down and terribly burned in 1940, becoming a founder member of the Guinea Pig Club. At the centre of the site is the Memorial itself – a seated airman looking out over the Channel with no indication visible of his rank or nationality. Another major feature is the Christopher Foxley-Norris Memorial Wall on which are listed the names of the aircrew who earned the Battle of Britain Clasp. In March 2015 Her Majesty the Queen, accompanied by His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh, visited the National Memorial and declared open The Wing, a new visitor centre in the shape of a Spitfire wing. A major feature of The Wing is The Scramble Experience, an interactive and atmospheric re-telling of the events of 1940. The Memorial is supported by the Friends of The Few, offering a range of benefits to members.

Frontline Books, an imprint of Pen & Sword Books Limited, 47 Church Street, Barnsley, S. Yorkshire, S70 2AS. Email: [email protected] www.frontline-books.com

Almost 3,000 Allied airmen flew in the Battle of Britain. Over 500 of them died during the Battle. First published in 1989 this seminal work has been extensively updated and expanded with many new photographs.

Men of

THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN A Biographical Directory of The Few

After its first publication in 1989 this book became the standard work of reference on the aircrew who took part in the Battle of Britain. Now Men of the Battle of Britain has been painstakingly revised, updated and many new photographs have been included for the 75th anniversary of the Battle. The book has more than 600 pages packed with information on ‘The Few’, much of it never previously published. Researchers from across the United Kingdom and overseas have combined to create this treasure chest of knowledge. This is an invaluable book for the historian, researcher, aviation enthusiast, medal collector or anyone with an interest in the men who fought against the Luftwaffe in the summer and autumn of 1940.

MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN A Biographical Directory of The Few

Published in association with The Battle of Britain Memorial Trust, PO Box 337, West Malling, Kent, ME6 9AA. www.battleofbritainmemorial.org Design by: Dave Cassan Front jacket: Pilots of 32 Squadron’s ‘B’ Flight resting between sorties at RAF Hawkinge, July 29th 1940. (ww2images; coloured by Jon Wilkinson)

£60

Frontline Books in association with

Kenneth G Wynn

Kenneth G Wynn www.frontline-books.com

The Battle of Britain Memorial Trust

Scan the QR code for more Frontline titles

Frontline Books in association with The Battle of Britain Memorial Trust

978-1-47384-767-5

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN A Biographical Directory of The Few

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The 1939-1945 Star with the clasp ‘Battle of Britain’ was issued to all aircrew from across the Empire and its allies who flew operationally with any of the squadrons listed below between the July 10th and October 31st 1940. The following squadrons and units were eligible for the Battle of Britain clasp: Squadrons 1, 1 (RCAF), 3, 17, 19, 23, 25, 29, 32, 41, 43, 46, 54, 56, 64, 65, 66, 72, 73, 74, 79, 85, 87, 92, 111, 141, 145, 151, 152, 213, 219, 222, 229, 232, 234, 235, 236, 238, 242, 245, 247, 248, 249, 253, 257, 263, 264, 266, 302, 303, 310, 312, 501, 504, 600, 601, 602, 603, 604, 605, 607, 609, 610, 611, 615 and 616. Flights 421, 422 and the Fighter Interception Unit Fleet Air Arm 804 and 808 Naval Air Squadrons Those pilots and other aircrew who may have been on the strength of any of the above units but who did not fly operationally, or those from other units who may have been in combat, did not receive the clasp.

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN A Biographical Directory of The Few

The pilots and other aircrew from throughout the British Empire and its allies who flew with the Royal Air Force, Fighter Command, between July 10th and October 31st 1940, and earned the ‘immediate’ award of the 1939-1945 Star with Battle of Britain Clasp. With a foreword by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales.

Kenneth G. Wynn

FRONTLINE BOOKS

In association with

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN A Biographical Directory of The Few First published in 1989 by Gliddon Books, Norwich, Norfolk. This edition published in 2015 by Frontline Books, an imprint of Pen & Sword Books Ltd, 47 Church Street, Barnsley, S. Yorkshire, S70 2AS. This edition published in association with The Battle of Britain Memorial Trust, PO Box 337, West Malling, Kent, ME6 9AA. www.battleofbritainmemorial.org The Battle of Britain Memorial Trust is the charity charged with caring for the National Memorial to the Few at Capel-le-Ferne in Kent. The Trust also works to preserve the memory of Churchill’s ‘Few’, the men who took part in the Battle of Britain and helped protect the United Kingdom from invasion in the summer and early autumn of 1940.

Copyright © The Battle of Britain Memorial Trust, 2015. The right of Kenneth G. Wynn to be identified as the author of this work has been asserted by him in accordance with the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988. ISBN: 978-1-47384-767-5. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the publisher. Any person who does any unauthorized act in relation to this publication may be liable to criminal prosecution and civil claims for damages. CIP data records for this title are available from the British Library. Printed and bound by CPI UK. Typeset in 8/9 point Garamond For more information on our books, please email: [email protected], write to us at the above address, or visit:

www.frontline-books.com

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CONTENTS

Dedication Foreword

vi vii

Author’s Acknowledgments Author’s Introduction

viii ix

The Battle of Britain Memorial Trust’s Introduction and Acknowledgements

x

The Men

1

The Memorials The Squadron Rolls Selected Bibliography Glossary Additional Images

586 587 601 603 604

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For Anah For her constant encouragement, unfailing support and invaluable commonsense

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AUTHOR’S ACKNOWLEDGMENTS My books on the Battle of Britain have always contained much information kindly supplied by people interested in this endlessly-fascinating subject. Their generosity in passing information on to me has always been a major factor in each subsequent edition. This one is no exception.

It is impossible to thank all who have helped, but the following people have all made such important contributions to this latest edition that I feel they merit a special mention:

Ron Durand. An unfailing supplier of obituaries from British newspapers over many years. Living as I do in New Zealand, the information contained therein would never have reached me otherwise.

The late Bruce Burton. His help over the years was invaluable. He was a researcher-extraordinaire, spending so much time at The National Archives and then sending me information gathered in instalments alphabetically. It was when he had reached the letter K that Bruce was told that he was very ill.

Laurie Chester. I thank him for information sent and questions answered immediately on the telephone. Always patient, ever helpful, and extremely knowledgeable, Laurie has always been there. Simon Muggleton. For the supply of information and photographs. Simon is very knowledgeable and so very willing to help.

When he realised how serious things were, he put all the information destined for me on to a CD and this disc, with an accompanying letter, was handed to me by his sister, Cherry, at Bruce’s funeral. I was leaving New Zealand for the United Kingdom on the Friday, intending to go and see Bruce soon after my arrival. On the Thursday evening, the day before I left, Cherry telephoned me to say that her brother had died earlier that day. It was such a shock for me.

Andy Saunders. For his pioneering work on aircraft excavation and recovery of pilots’ remains. The information he has brought to light over so many years has been invaluable. A good friend to me for a long time. Dean Sumner. For information on some of the participants but particularly for telling me about relatives of Battle of Britain men who also died on active service during the war.

The letter he left for me was particularly poignant. It began: ‘Dear Ken, I am not very well at present and I do not know what the future holds. I did not want to let you down, so I have been spending every possible moment in going through the remainder of the alphabet.’ The letter ended: ‘I wish you all the best for the future. It has been a pleasure helping you and I am only sorry that I cannot take it any further. With very best wishes, Bruce.’

Group Captain Patrick Tootal OBE, DL. Without whose instant enthusiasm for the project and rapid action, this edition would never have been published. To all those survivors of the Battle of Britain and widows and relatives of deceased participants who have been wonderfully helpful in providing me with records of service, photographs, information and, in many cases, hospitality over the past twenty years.

My memories of Bruce and knowing that he would have wished me to complete his work have been over-riding factors in the effort I have put into this updated version of Men of the Battle of Britain. I felt it was the very least I could do in his memory.

Last but by no means least, my dear wife, Anah, who has always been a major driving force and is always there for me with sound advice and help when I seem to need it most, which is quite frequently on a project like this.

Sam Cope. My friend and mentor in all things technological as far as data transfer and computers are concerned. His help was always given ungrudgingly and patiently whenever I asked for it. Without Sam I would not have been able to get it all down in a usable and reproducible state.

I thank all of the above people and I hope that the reader will find this updated edition of the book to be an informative and worthwhile addition to the literature of the Battle of Britain.

Gerry Burke. A veritable miracle worker where the supply of photographs for the book has been concerned. Gerry has been so involved in sending me so many, otherwise unobtainable, pictures. I am so grateful to him.

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AUTHOR’S INTRODUCTION This book does not give an account of the Battle of Britain, nor will it deal with the events leading up to it or with the technical details of the types of aircraft which took part. These aspects of the Battle have all been very adequately covered in hundreds of books over the past sixty years.

been included in previous books of mine. In other cases, where inclusion is questionable, I have left in the men concerned, on the basis of their long-time acceptance by the Battle of Britain Fighter Association.

‘The Few’ is a term that was immortalised by Winston Churchill in his speech to the House of Commons on August 20 1940. In fact the term is rather deceptive. ‘The Few’ numbers over 2,900 men who qualify for the Battle of Britain clasp to the 1939-1945 Star, a campaign medal. The clasp is a symbol which denotes that its wearer was a pilot or aircrew member in the Battle of Britain and who served in an eligible squadron or unit of Fighter Command, or to have served in one of the Coastal Command or Fleet Air Arm squadrons that were seconded to Fighter Command for periods between July 10 and October 31 1940. The minimum requirement for the award of the clasp was to have flown at least one authorised operational sortie between these dates, whilst serving with one of the 71 eligible units.

In this edition, new names have been added, which, as far as I know, have never previously appeared on the Roll. These inclusions are backed up by documentary evidence, again principally from The National Archives. Some have appeared in my previous editions as ‘unknowns’, about whom no information had been found. Identifying information has now come to light for them. Also included this time are some men from 263 and 616 Squadrons. The Operations Record Books of these two units are somewhat lacking, with the result that documentary evidence is not available to confirm the eligibility of the said men. However, I have made this quite clear in each man’s individual account. Until such time as confirmation or denial can be proven, they have been included.

The vast majority of ‘The Few’ were British. Many men served in the pre-war Royal Air Force, either as officers with permanent, non-permanent or short service commissions, or as NCO pilots, many of whom had originally joined asaircraft apprentices or had re-mustered from their basic technical trades or as Airmen aircrew, flying as air gunners or observers.

As far as illustrations are concerned, nearly 300 new ones have been added. The quality of some of the photographs still leaves much to be desired but this is inevitable with enlargements from copies of copies, many of which are from original photographs taken with what are now considered primitive box cameras.

Flying alongside these career airmen in the Battle were the ‘weekend fliers’ of the Auxiliary Air Force, the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve and men from the University Air Squadrons. These were men who had trained in their spare time and were mobilised shortly before the outbreak of war. In addition there were other men flying in the Battle, mainly in aircrew categories, who volunteered for aircrew in the early months of the war and then completed their training in time to be posted to operational units to take part in the Battle. Finally, there were more than 50 pilots of the Fleet Air Arm, some flying in the Battle with RAF fighter squadrons and the remainder serving with 804 and 808 Naval Air Squadrons on dockyard defence.

It is a source of satisfaction to me that this edition contains likenesses of so many of the men who flew in the Battle of Britain. I feel that it adds the human aspect of those involved. As a subject of interest, the Battle of Britain seems to be gaining momentum with each succeeding generation, rather than losing it. Its importance to the war’s final outcome cannot be over-stated, in spite of some opinions expressed in a few recently-published books.

From the Commonwealth came pilots from Australia, Canada, Rhodesia, South Africa and Ireland and pilots, observers and air gunners from New Zealand and one observer from Jamaica. Also in the cosmopolitan make-up of ‘The Few’ were pilots from Czechoslovakia, France, Poland and the United States and pilots and a few wireless operator/air gunners from Belgium. To complete the number of participants, there was one stateless man, who had been Austrian before 1938.

As ever, I continue to have an unbounded admiration for ‘The Few’, for the men who won the Battle of Britain. This new edition is a further attempt on my part to record those men for posterity, to tell who they were and to give some account of what became of the survivors after the Battle and their subsequent activities in every theatre of war.

Research on many of these airmen is ongoing and will continue to be so, at least for the foreseeable future. This edition includes the results of a further ten years’ research, undertaken since the publication of the previous, second, edition in 1999. The vast majority of individual write-ups have been amended, with varying amounts of new information.

I am very proud to have been in the Royal Air Force myself and to have trained for aircrew. Peter Townsend’s reference to the RAF being ‘the best flying club in the world’ would seem to be a very apt description.

There is a continuing discussion as to whether certain men on the Battle of Britain Roll should in fact be on it at all. In the light of documentary evidence, principally from The National Archives, I have omitted some men that have

Kenneth G. Wynn Auckland, New Zealand, 2015

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INTRODUCTION The Battle of Britain Memorial Trust is honoured to be instrumental in the publication of this third edition of Men of the Battle of Britain by Kenneth G. Wynn. Since it first appeared in 1989 this book has gained a deserved reputation as the foremost repository of information on the Allied airmen who qualified for the 1939-1945 Star with Battle of Britain Clasp, while fighting to save the United Kingdom from invasion. Now, through the enormous generosity of a supporter, the Trust owns the rights to the book and is able to present this new and greatly updated and expanded edition.

HRH The Prince of Wales has reminded us that ‘The Few’ must always be remembered. This edition of Kenneth G. Wynn’s Men of the Battle of Britain, so painstakingly masterminded by Geoff, will go a long way to ensure that this will happen.

Everybody with an interest in the events of the summer and autumn of 1940 owes a tremendous debt for the monumental task Ken Wynn has undertaken, over many years, in recording the lives of the airmen. We salute his achievement. This edition has been prepared for publication by Geoff Simpson, a Trustee of the Memorial Trust. ‘The Few’ themselves, and their relatives, were a vital source of information and photographs. Many other people have assisted Geoff and their invaluable help is identified below.

Air Chief Marshal Sir Michael Graydon, GCB, CBE President, The Battle of Britain Memorial Trust

THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN MEMORIAL TRUST’S ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Many people have assisted Geoff Simpson in the preparation of this edition. His immediate team consisted of Gerry Burke, Laurie Chester, Robin Green, Richard Hunting CBE, Martin Mace, Edward McManus, Wing Commander Andy Simpson, Margaret Simpson and Group Captain Patrick Tootal, OBE, DL.

Pitchfork MBE, Dr Jiri Rajlich, Fergus Read, Wing Commander Jim Routledge, Andy Saunders, Mark Sheridan, Colin Smith, Dean Sumner, John Sutton, John Sweeney, Justine Taylor, Cleland Thom, Victoria Thompson and Janet Tootal BEM.

Others who gave invaluable assistance and advice included: Kristen Alexander, Colonel Pierre-Alain Antoine, Bryan Badham, Craig Brandon, Ian Brentnall, David Brocklehurst MBE, Derek Broughton, Dr Stephen Bungay, Simon Butler, John Clarke, David Cook, Adrian Cork, Bob Cossey, Sebastian Cox, Dr Jeremy Crang, Hazel Crozier, Philip Curtis, Group Captain Alex Dickson OBE QVRM AE, Tom Dolezal, Andy Dunn, Alice Eckersley, Fik Geuens, Rt Hon Sir Martin Gilbert CBE, Gary Godel, Geoffrey Goodman CBE, Margaret Hobbs, Wing Commander ‘Jeff ’ Jefford MBE, Eileen Jones, David Long, Dr Tony Mansell, Barry M. Marsden, Sara Mitchell, Peter Moore, Wendy Mott, Geneviève Moulard, Simon Muggleton, Tim Pierce, Air Commodore Graham

Much help was also given by the archivists, librarians and historians of many schools, museums and other institutions, including the Air Historical Branch (RAF), RAF College Cranwell and the Imperial War Museum. Squadron associations have contributed their knowledge, including those associated with Nos. 74, 504 and 610 squadrons.

Websites consulted included: www.bbm.org.uk www.fcafa.wordpress.com www.oxforddnb.com www.themerseysidefew.com

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THE MEN

“What General Weygand called the Battle of France is over. I expect that the Battle of Britain is about to begin. The whole fury and might of the enemy must very soon be turned on us. Hitler knows that he will have to break us in this island or lose the War. If we can stand up to him, all Europe may be free and the life of the world may move forward to broad sunlit lands. But if we fail, then the whole world, including the United States, including all we have known and cared for, will sink into the abyss of a new Dark Age made more sinister and perhaps more protracted, by the lights of perverted science. Let us therefore brace ourselves to our duties and so bear ourselves that, if the British Empire and its Commonwealth last for a thousand years, men will still say ‘This was their finest hour’.” Winston Churchill, June 18 1940

“The gratitude of every home in our Island, in our Empire, and indeed throughout the world, except in the abodes of the guilty, goes out to the British airmen, who, undaunted by odds, unwearied in their constant challenge and mortal danger, are turning the tide of the world war by their prowess and devotion. Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few.” Winston Churchill, August 20 1940

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AUTHOR’S NOTES To clarify information given in the individual entries, the following notes will be of help in using this book:

2. Honours and awards for all men other than Polish or Czech personnel are followed by the date of The London Gazette in which they were announced.

1. The service details under each name heading are as follows: • The service number is the man’s final one. If he was in the ranks or an NCO during the Battle of Britain and was later commissioned, his officer’s number is given in the heading and his original airman’s number is provided in brackets in the text. If he was never commissioned, the man’s original airman’s number is listed in the heading. • The rank given is the highest gazetted rank attained during the Battle of Britain period. • The aircrew category is that in which the man was employed during the Battle of Britain period. In squadron ORBs of 1940, Radar Operators are described as Radio Operators. I have used the term Radar Operator throughout to avoid confusion. • The nationality given is that held at the time of the Battle of Britain. • The squadrons and units given in the headings are those in which the man served with or was attached to during the Battle of Britain period. Where an individual, such as a Station Commander, flew an operational sortie, the squadron given is that with which he flew the sortie, although he was neither on the strength of that squadron or attached to it. He qualified for the Battle of Britain clasp by flying such an authorised sortie.

3. For Polish and Czech personnel, the date given is that of their respective Air Force Orders which listed the awards. 4. Commissioned rank details are listed at the bottom of each entry. Once a man was on full-time service, no differentiation is made as to whether his commission is AAF, RAFVR, etc. The dates given are The London Gazette announcement dates. 5. Abbreviations which appear in the entries are explained in a glossary at the end of the book. 6. As an additional reference aid, a complete list of eligible squadrons and units appears at the end of the book, with all the men who served with or were attached to them during the Battle of Britain period. They are listed alphabetically and the rank given is, in the case of officers, the highest gazetted rank attained during the period. Acting ranks have not been taken into account because of their purely temporary nature.

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A HUBERT HASTINGS ADAIR 580088

Sgt

Pilot British

course. Over Dunkirk on June 2 Adams shot down a Ju 87 and probably destroyed a Bf 109. Flying from Ternhill on July 22, he made a forced-landing on the beach at Colwyn Bay, in Spitfire N 3062. The aircraft was towed on to the promenade by the Army, to escape the incoming tide. On September 21 Adams was sent up to investigate an unidentified aircraft over Liverpool and sighted a Do 215 of 2(F)/121 on photo-reconnaissance. He climbed to intercept and tried to turn the aircraft back to Hooton Park. The German pilot did not comply and Adams shot the aircraft down at Dolgelly, Merionethshire. It crash-landed at Trawsfynydd. One crew-member was killed and the other three captured, wounded. Adams joined 41 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 29 and three days later shared in destroying a Bf 109. On October 7 he was shot down by return fire from a Do 17 and baled out of Spitfire N 3267, landing at Douglas Farm, Postling. On October 30 he damaged a Bf 109. Adams was posted away from 41 Squadron in April 1941. He was in the RAF until 1943, when he was released as a Squadron Leader. He later went to live in South Africa and died there in 1995.

151 and 213 Squadrons

Adair, who was born in 1917, was educated at the City of Norwich School. He entered the RAF as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot in 1936. He reported for elementary flying training on January 6 and after successfully completing the course, he was sent to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on March 2 1936 for formal enlistment. Adair went to 3 FTS, South Cerney on March 16 for No 17 Course, which he completed on December 17 1936, passing out as a Sergeant-Pilot. He joined 35 Squadron at Worthy Down on the 20th, to fly Fairey Gordons. On September 25 1939 Adair joined 88 Squadron, equipped with Fairey Battles and then based at Mourmelon in France, with the AASF. The squadron returned to England in mid-June 1940 and in August Adair volunteered for Fighter Command and was sent to Digby on September 4, to join 151 Squadron. He moved to 213 Squadron at Tangmere on the 16th. After being involved in a night landing accident on November 5, Adair was back in action again the following afternoon and did not return from combat over the Southampton area. Adair is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 11. It is now believed that Hurricane, V 7602, which crashed at Pigeon House Farm, Widley, Hampshire was Adair’s. It was excavated on October 6 1979 and the pilot’s remains were found. They were later sent to the Portchester Crematorium for ‘disposal’. This aircraft was almost certainly shot down by Major Helmut Wick of JG 2.

APO (AAF) 11.10.38

FO

Pilot British

FO 3.9.40

FL 3.9.41

SL 1.7.44

ERIC HENRY ADAMS 742165

Sgt

Pilot British

236 Squadron

Adams joined the RAFVR in May 1938 and did his elementary flying training at 29 E&RFTS, Luton. Called up on September 1 1939, he went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on October 9, for No 42 Course. Adams completed his training on March 23 1940 and, after converting to Blenheims at the Coastal Command Landplane Pilots Pool at Silloth, he joined 236 Squadron at Filton in June. The squadron was with Fighter Command during the early months of the Battle of Britain and then returned to Coastal Command. Adams was posted with his flight to Aldergrove on November 19 1940, where it joined a flight of 235 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron. He flew his first operational sortie with 272 on December 1. Later in the month Adams was posted to 252 Squadron, recently reformed at Aldergrove. Early in 1941 Adams contracted a throat virus and was in hospital for four months. He was taken off operational flying and in September 1941 went to Henlow as a test pilot for newly-assembled Hurricanes, testing Packard-Merlin engines. In mid-1943 Adams did a flying control course and was afterwards posted to N’dola, Northern Rhodesia, a staging post on the South Africa/Egypt route. He returned to the UK in October 1944 and became an aircraft controller at RAF Carnaby. Adams was released in April 1946, as a Warrant Officer. He was a successful estate agent until his retirement in 1982. He died in 2003.

DENNIS ARTHUR ADAMS 90537

PO 26.8.39

611 and 41 Squadrons

Born in Banbury on May 6 1913, Adams was educated at Liskeard High School, Wallasey. He passed the entrance examination for Cambridge University but then decided to do an apprenticeship in the light leather industry. He finished his time at a tannery in Northampton and took a job with the firm there. On April 14 1936 he joined Class ‘F’ of the RAF Reserve, on a five year engagement and became a Sergeant u/t Pilot the next day. He began flying training at 7 E&RFTS, Desford. The course required nine weeks full-time training in the first six months, on Tiger Moths, and two weeks in the second six months on Harts, still at Desford. No uniform was given. After the RAFVR was formed, Adams transferred into it in early 1937, as a SergeantPilot, having qualified after his Hart training. The RAFVR flying weekends were spent at 28 E&RFTS at Meir in Staffordshire. In 1938 Adams applied to join 610 Squadron, AAF but there were no vacancies, so he applied to 611 Squadron at Speke in July 1938 and was accepted. He was commissioned and given L60 uniform allowance to spend at Gieves, Liverpool. The squadron went to camp at Duxford on August 13 1939 and was mobilised on to a war footing on the 24th. Adams was detached to RAF Locking on February 18 1940 for a week-long parachute

HUGH CHARLES ADAMS 85645

PO

Pilot British

501 Squadron

Adams, from Oxted, Surrey, joined the RAFVR in January 1938 (741254). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and was with 501 Squadron in early May 1940, as a Sergeant-Pilot. He was flown to France, with other squadron personnel, in a Bombay transport on May 11. The aircraft crashed, when it landed at Betheniville. Adams was among those injured and he was repatriated to England. He rejoined 501 on July 17 1940 and made his first flight on the 21st. Adams destroyed

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

He is buried in the churchyard at Noordwolde, Weststevllingwerf, The Netherlands, where the Halifax crashed.

a Bf 109 on September 2 and was then himself shot down in combat S of Ashford, in Hurricane V 7234. On the 6th he was shot down and killed in action over Ashford. His aircraft, Hurricane V6612, crashed at Clavertye, near Elham. His commission was gazetted on the day he was killed and in the casualty list he was down as ‘killed in action’ as a Sergeant.

WILLIAM NATHAN ADDISON 62268

Pilot British

29 Squadron

Adams was born on May 17 1911. He began his training with the RAF on January 27 1936, as a pupil pilot. Commissioned in March, he was posted to 2 FTS, Digby on May 2. On completion of the course, he joined 29 Squadron at Debden on January 10 1937. He was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on May 12 1939 and appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander. He was still with 29 in July 1940. During the night of August 19/20 1940 Adams sighted an enemy aircraft and chased it for fifty minutes before making contact off the South Coast. After attacking his quarry over the sea and having apparently destroyed it, Adams returned to Digby and landed with both fuel gauges reading nil. This action was mentioned in the citation when Adams was awarded the DFC (24.9.40). On October 28 he was posted to 303 Squadron at Leconfield, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. He was posted away on December 3 1940 and took command of 151 Squadron at Wittering two days later. He held this appointment until October 1941, when he was posted to staff duties at HQ 12 Group. Adams returned to operations in April 1942, taking command of 256 Squadron at Squires Gate, as an Acting Wing Commander. He remained with the squadron until October. On April 5 1943 he was posted to a staff job at the Air Ministry, in the Directorate of Operations (Air Defence). A further tour of operations followed in 1944, with 226 Squadron, for which Adams was awarded a Bar to the DFC (29.8.44). In 1945 he was CFI at the OTU at Mitchels. Adams stayed in the RAF after the war and retired on July 27 1958 as a Wing Commander, retaining the rank of Group Captain. In 1958 he was appointed Commander in the Order of Orange Nassau.

RAYMOND CHARLES ANDRE AEBERHARDT 42781

Air Gunner

British

Pilot British

19 Squadron

On May 10 1940 Aeberhardt arrived at 10 B&GS, Warmwell, with the Advanced Training Squadron of 6 FTS for armament training. He completed the course on May 17 and then moved to 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 18th. He converted to Spitfires and joined 19 Squadron at Duxford on June 9. On August 31 1940 the squadron intercepted an enemy force attacking Debden. In the ensuing combat, Aeberhardt’s Spitfire, R 6912, was hit and the glycol system damaged. He returned to Fowlmere and attempted a landing without flaps, which were not working. The aircraft went over on to its back and caught fire. Aeberhardt was killed.

REGINALD THOMAS ADAMS Sgt

PO

Aeberhardt, from Walton-on Thames, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying course on August 14 1939, as a pupil pilot. He moved on to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on November 6, on No 16 Course.

APO 30.3.36 PO 27.1.37 FO 27.10.38 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41 WC 1.7.44 WC 1.10.46

759300

23 Squadron

He volunteered for aircrew duties in mid-1940 and was sent on a short radar course at RAF Yatesbury. On August 18 Addison joined 23 Squadron at Wittering and served with it in the Battle of Britain. In early 1941 Addison was posted to 85 Squadron at Debden, with Havocs, and began what was to prove to be a long and highly successful partnership with a Canadian pilot, Flight Lieutenant Gordon Raphael. During the night of May 13/14 1941 Raphael and Addison destroyed a He 111 off the Thames Estuary and probably destroyed another near Gravesend. A Ju 88 was shot down at night on June 23/24 and the team destroyed another He 111 on the night of July13/14. Addison was awarded the DFM (15.7.41) and promoted to Sergeant. The team shot down a Ju 88 during the night of September 16/17 1941, damaged another on July 30/31 1942 and had their final victory together in a Mosquito on January 17/18 1943, destroying a Ju 88. Addison, who had been promoted to Warrant Officer on May 1 1942, was awarded the DFC (19.2.43). About this time he was posted away for a rest. In July 1944 Addison returned to operations, joining 488 Squadron at Colerne. He was to have flown with the CO but he was killed just prior to Addison’s arrival. So he was teamed up with Flying Officer Douglas Robinson and when Robinson went for a rest, Addison flew with Flight Lieutenant Cook until he returned. During his time with 488, Addison assisted in the destruction of a Ju 88. When 488 was disbanded on April 26 1945, Addison went with Robinson to 219 Squadron, where they stayed until the war ended. Addison was released in 1945, still a Warrant Officer.

JACK SYLVESTER ADAMS FL

British

Addison joined the RAF in October 1938 and trained as a Wireless Operator (Ground).

PO 6.9.40

37728

AC 1 Radar Operator

264 Squadron

Adams, from Marten in Wiltshire, joined the RAFVR on August 29 1939 at Southampton, in the Aircraft Crew Section, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG.

APO 23.10.39 PO 18.5.40 He went to 3 EFTS, Hamble on a wireless operator course. He was later called to full-time service and then sent to 4 ITW, Bexhill. Following a posting to Debden, Adams was sent to No 1 AAS Manby on July 27 1940, on No 12 Air Gunners Course. He passed out on August 10 1940, was promoted to Sergeant and posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 16th. Adams joined 264 Squadron, with Defiants, at Kirton-inLindsey on September 7. He was posted away from the squadron on December 16 1940 and joined 256 Squadron, then reforming at Catterick with Defiants. Adams crewed up with Flying Officer D R West, who was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant and appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander. Just before midnight on April 7 1941 West and Adams intercepted and shot down a Ju 88 of II/KG 54. It crashed at Banks Marsh, Southport, 256’s first victory. In the early hours of May 8 West and Adams shot down a He 111 that was raiding Liverpool. It crashed at Wrexham. During this action three of Adams’ four guns jammed. On September 15 1941 ‘A’ Flight of 256 Squadron was moved to Ballyhalbert, to form the nucleus of 153 Squadron. When the squadron converted to Beaufighters, the air gunners were posted away. Adams, then a Flight Sergeant, went to Bomber Command, joining 405 (RCAF) Squadron at Pocklington, equipped with Halifaxes. Adams failed to return from a raid on Bremen on June 30 1942. His Halifax, W 1113, was shot down by a night fighter and all the crew were lost. Adams was 21 years old.

NOEL le CHEVALIER AGAZARIAN 72550

FO

Pilot British

609 Squadron

Born on December 26 1916, he was the son of an Armenian father and a French mother. Agazarian was the third of four brothers to be educated at Dulwich College. A fine athlete, he left from the Modern VI and he went up to Wadham College, Oxford in 1935. He achieved an Honours degree in Jurisprudence in 1938. He was in the University Air Squadron and after coming down he joined the RAFVR and was granted a commission in February 1939. Called to full-time service on September 26 1939, Agazarian was posted to 3 ITW, Hastings in early October, where he met Richard Hillary, who described him as ‘cosmopolitan by nature, intelligent and a brilliant linguist’. In November both men were posted to 14 FTS, Kinloss, on No 4 Course, which ran from November 20 1939 to May 11 1940. With the course completed, they went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum on May 20 for further training, on No 7 Course. On June 23 Agazarian went to 5 OTU, Aston Down and after converting to Spitfires, he joined

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609 Squadron at Warmwell on July 8. On September15 he shared a Do 17 with Pilot Officer Curchin of 609, on the 25th he shared a He 111, destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged two Do 17s on the 26th, shot down a Bf 110 on the 27th and damaged a He 111 on the 30th. Another Bf 109 was destroyed on October 15. Agazarian’s final victory with 609 came on December 2, when he shared a Do 17 off Southampton with Flying Officer Nowierski of 609 Squadron. Having volunteered for the Middle East, Agazarian was posted there in late January 1941 and joined 274 Squadron on April 6 at Amriya in the Western Desert. He shot down a Bf 109 over Tobruk on May 1 1941 but on the 16th he was shot down and killed, when 274 was intercepted by Bf 109s over Gambut. Agazarian is buried in Knightsbridge War Cemetery, Acroma, Libya and he is remembered on a plaque at Dulwich College, unveiled on March 14 2002. His Spitfire from 1940, R 6915, is now in the Imperial War Museum in London. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in 1940. Agazarian’s brother, Flight Lieutenant J C S Agazarian was attached to the SOE in France, working as an agent. He was captured, interrogated and tortured by the Gestapo. After a long period of solitary confinement, he was executed by the SS on March 29 1945, aged 29. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial. Another brother served in the RAF and a sister, Monique, was a pilot in the ATA.

936218

Sgt

British

HENRY ALOYSIUS AITKEN 129498

Sgt

23 Squadron

enemy territory. Aitken turned towards the nearby sea, his engine cut out and he made a successful crash-landing on a beach. He then laid low until it was dark, before making his way eastwards. After some hours he saw figures against the skyline. He waited until dawn and was very relieved when he found them to be Australians. Aitken was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant and he died in 1993. PO 20.7.42 FO 20.1.43 FL 20.7.44

The Hon JOHN WILLIAM MAXWELL AITKEN 90128

23 Squadron

Ainge enlisted in the Aircraft Crew Section of the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. He was called up on September 1 1939 and with training completed, he joined 23 Squadron at Ford on October 3 1940. He flew only one operational sortie during the Battle of Britain period, on October 9. There is no further mention of him in the 23 Squadron ORB up to the end of 1940. No other service details traced. Ainge died on November 30 1979.

SIDNEY AINSWORTH 1002750 AC 1 Radar Operator

British

Pilot British

601 Squadron

Educated at Westminster School and Pembroke College, Cambridge, Aitken joined the Auxiliary Air Force in 1935 and was commissioned in September, with 601 Squadron. He was a noted member of the social set and a keen sportsman in the 1930s and his photograph was often in society magazines. Aitken was embodied for full-time service with 601 on August 26 1939. He took part in the squadron’s first operation on November 28, when six of its Blenheims joined with six from 25 Squadron to attack the German seaplane base at Borkum. They took off from Bircham Newton and all returned safely, landing at Debden. It was the first fighter attack of the war on a German target. Three He 115 floatplanes were destroyed and three damaged. Aitken received a Mention in Despatches. On May 18 1940 he flew to Merville in France with the Hurricanes of ‘B’ Flight of 601, to reinforce 3 Squadron. During the short period of his attachment he had some success, destroying one He 111 and probably another over Brussels on May 18, shooting down a He 111 and a Ju 87 on the 19th and probably destroying a second Ju 87 and a Bf 110 the same day and on the 23rd damaging a Bf 109. Aitken returned to England and on June 7 he was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader and given command of 601. He destroyed a He 111 off Brighton during the night of June 25/26. For this and his victories in France in May he was awarded the DFC (9.7.40). Aitken’s final victory with 601 came on July 7 1940, when he shared a Do 17 over the Channel with four other pilots. He was posted away on July 17 and went to the Air Ministry on the 20th, as a staff officer in the Directorate of Operational Training. He did not return to operations until February 1941, when he took command of 68 Squadron at Catterick, newly-formed with Blenheim 1fs for night-fighting. The squadron was declared operational in April 1941 but it was much later in the year before it achieved any success. On June 25 1941 Aitken, flying a Spitfire of 610 Squadron, shot down a Bf 109 during a sweep over the coast of France. Still commanding 68 Squadron, then flying from Coltishall mostly with Czech crews, Aitken destroyed a Do 217 at night on April 30/May1 1942, shot down another during the night of May 29/30 and also damaged a Ju 88 and on July 23/24 he destroyed a Ju 88 and a

ERIC DOUGLAS AINGE British

FL

Max Aitken was born in Montreal on February 15 1910, the elder son of William Maxwell Aitken, who was created 1st Baron Beaverbrook in 1917.

PO 30.10.43 FO 30.4.44 FL 30.10.45

Air Gunner

54 Squadron

On completion of his flying training, he joined 54 Squadron at Catterick from 7 OTU, Hawarden on October 6 1940 and remained with it into 1941. Aitken joined 213 Squadron in the Western Desert in May 1942. Commissioned on July 20, he damaged Bf 109s on July 3 and 15. On November 3 1942 Aitken was attacking a German lorry, when it exploded and threw his aircraft out of control. Hit by ground fire, his engine faltered and he prepared to make a forced-landing. He switched off his engine but restarted it when continuing ground fire showed that he was still over

He went to RAF Yatesbury for a short radar course, after which he was posted to 23 Squadron at Wittering in August. Aindow carried out his first operational sortie on the 25th and flew 26 night operations during the Battle of Britain, without success. In March 1941 he was posted to 85 Squadron at Debden but after a short navigation course at Cranage, he was transferred in July to Tangmere, on Turbinlite Bostons. The aircraft were each fitted with a searchlight in the nose. On patrols the Bostons were each accompanied by two fighters. When an enemy aircraft was located, approached and illuminated, the fighters would then attack and destroy it. The scheme was eventually abandoned. In early 1943 Aindow, then a Warrant Officer joined 157 Squadron at Castle Camps. He flew on Mosquito night intruder patrols over the Continent, patrolling German airfields and attacking trains. In November 1943 the squadron moved to Predannack, attached to Coastal Command and flying daylight patrols down to the Bay of Biscay. Aindow and his pilot, Flight Lieutenant Dyke, had great success early on. On November 20 they probably destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged another and on December 1 they shot down two Ju 88s. Commissioned in October 1943, Aindow was rested in February 1944 and became a navigation instructor. He was later with a Radar Ground-Controlled Approach Unit, as an Air Controller. The Unit went to Germany and he was released from there in December 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant.

Sgt

Pilot British

Aitken joined the RAFVR in about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754240). He was called up on September 1 1939.

Aindow volunteered for the RAFVR in September 1939. He was called up on June 4 1940 (1002660) and after his basic training he applied for aircrew duties.

751890

219 Squadron

He joined 219 Squadron at Catterick in July 1940 and flew his first operational sortie on the 29th. Aitken is last mentioned in the squadron ORB on September 19. No other service details traced. He died in 1989.

CHARLES ROBERT AINDOW AC 2 Radar Operator

British

Aitken enlisted in the RAFVR in September 1939 for the duration of hostilities at No 2 RAF Depot, Cardington. He was serving with 235 Squadron at North Coates on March 31 1940, as an AC 2 Air Gunner.

PO (RAFVR) 14.2.39 PO 26.9.39 FO 14.8.40

162980

Air Gunner

23 Squadron

Ainsworth enlisted in the RAFVR in May 1940 at No 3 RAF Depot, Padgate, for the duration of hostilities. After training, he joined 23 Squadron at Ford on September 20 1940, as a Radar Operator, and flew his first operational sortie on the 23rd. He flew eleven operational sorties with 23 during the Battle of Britain period, the last on October 20 1940. There is no further mention of him in the 23 Squadron ORB and no other service details have been traced. Ainsworth died on October 21 1975.

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Do 217. He was awarded the Czech Military Cross (11.8.42), the DSO (14.8.42) and the Air Efficiency Award (1.1.43). With his operational tour completed, Aitken was posted away in January 1943 and in February he was posted to HQ Eastern Mediterranean, to serve in the Fighter Tactics Branch. On March 5 1944, at night over the Aegean Sea in a Beaufighter of 46 Squadron, Aitken shot down two Ju 52s, probably destroyed a third and damaged a fourth. He later returned to the UK, to command the Banff Mosquito Strike Wing, operating in Norwegian waters against German shipping. After being released from the RAF in early 1946, as a Group Captain, Aitken again took command of 601 Squadron in June and held the appointment until 1948. He had been returned as Conservative Member of Parliament for Holborn in the 1945 General Election, holding the seat until 1950. He succeeded his father, as Lord Beaverbrook, in 1964 but on June 11 of that year he disclaimed the peerage. He retained his father’s Baronetcy and became Sir Max. In 1968 Aitken became Chairman of Beaverbrook Newspapers and was then President from 1977 until his death on May 1 1985. Aitken’s portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in 1940.

82708

Pilot British

152 Squadron

Born on September 6 1913, Akroyd joined the RAFVR in January 1937 (740043), as an Airman u/t Pilot, and was called up on September 1 1939. He became a flying instructor at Kinloss. He served with 152 Squadron at Warmwell during the Battle of Britain. On August 15 1940 Akroyd claimed a Ju 87 destroyed. On that day he returned in the afternoon, after a combat over Portland, his Spitfire, R 6910, damaged and the rudder jammed. He landed safely. In combat with German fighters over Lyme Regis in the afternoon of October 7, Akroyd was shot down. His Spitfire, N 3039, crashed and burned out at Nutmead, Shillingstone. He was severely burned and died the next day in Dorchester Hospital, with his wife Irene at his bedside. She stayed at the Frampton Arms, near Warmwell, and gave the landlady there, Mrs Miller, her late husband’s wings, as a keepsake. The wings, together with Akroyd’s medals, are now in the Military Aviation Museum at Tangmere. Akroyd is buried in the churchyard of Holy Trinity, Warmwell.

PO 27.7.40 FO 27.7.41

FREDERICK JOSEPH ALDRIDGE 42381

Pilot British

Pilot British

610 and 41 Squadrons

He was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on the 21st for intermediate and advanced training, on No 40 Course, which he completed on February 17 1940. It is almost certain that he did an Army Co-operation course before joining 4 (AC) Squadron in France on May 12 1940. Aldridge volunteered for Fighter Command and was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 22. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 610 Squadron at Acklington on September 3 1940 and went to 41 Squadron at Hornchurch on October 1. The squadron was heavily engaged at that time and Aldridge claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on October 17, another one on the 30th and on November 17 he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another. Aldridge is believed to have been posted to the recently-formed 308 (Polish) Squadron at Baginton on December 9 1940. He was posted away to the Middle East in early 1941 and he joined 250 Squadron, when it reformed at Aqir, Palestine on April 1. Later in 1941 Aldridge joined 238 Squadron in the Western Desert. On December 6 he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another. Early in 1942 he was posted to 274 Squadron and on February 6 he damaged a Ju 88 near El Adem. Aldridge was released from the RAF in 1947 as a Squadron Leader.

ANTONY VICTOR ALBERTINI Sgt

PO

Aldridge joined the RAF in 1939, as a candidate for a short service commission. He began his elementary flying training, as a pupil pilot, on June 12 1939 at 22 E&RFTS, Cambridge. Having successfully completed the course, he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on August 5 for a short induction course.

PO 26.9.40

119844

610 and 41 Squadrons

Aldous joined the RAFVR in September 1938 (745796). He was called up on September 1 1939. After completing his elementary flying training, he went to 9 FTS, Hullavington on April 11 1940, on No 18 Course, on completion of which he joined 610 Squadron at Biggin Hill on July 27 1940. Aldous was detached to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 29th to convert to Spitfires and he rejoined 610 on August 12 and flew his first operational sortie on the 22nd. In combat off Dover on August 24, Aldous probably destroyed a Bf 109. His Spitfire, R6641, was damaged but he returned safely to base. On the 29th he damaged a Do 17 and next day he shot down a He 111. Aldous joined 41 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 12 and on the 18th he damaged a Bf 109. On the 28th he was in action over Charing and made a crash-landing at Pluckley in Spitfire X 4345, slightly wounded. He was sent immediately on seven days sick leave. He was posted away from 41 on December 7 to 55 OTU, to instruct. On August 7 1941 Aldous joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick. Flying from Manston on October 16, he was shot down and killed during an attack on storage tanks at Flushing. He is buried in Vissingen Northern Cemetery, Flushing, Netherlands. At the time of his death, Aldous was an Acting Flight Lieutenant. He is remembered on a memorial plaque at Dulwich College, unveiled on March 14 2002.

HAROLD JOHN AKROYD PO

Pilot British

Born on January 1 1918, Aldous, of Sanderstead, Surrey, was at Dulwich College from 1931 to 1935 and afterwards went to work for Charrington’s, the coal merchants.

PO (AAF) 11.9.35 FO (AAF) 14.4.37 FO 26.8.39 FL 24.5.40 SL 3.5.41 WC 1.9.42 SL (AAF) 1.8.46

86360

PO

600 Squadron

Albertini was born at Baldwyn’s Park, Bexley, Kent on September 29 1920 and attended City of London School. He enlisted in the Auxiliary Air Force in 1938 for four years, (800544). He qualified as an Air Gunner and applied successfully for pilot training in the first half of 1939. He was called up on August 24 1939 and went to 5 EFTS, Hanworth on October 21, as an LAC u/t Pilot.

APO 5.8.39 PO 4.3.40 FO 4.3.41 FL 4.3.42 Albertini completed his elementary training and moved to 3 FTS, South Cerney on March 23 1940, for No 33 Course, which ended on July 11, with him passing out as a SergeantPilot. He rejoined 600 Squadron on the 14th. He was detached to RAF Uxbridge on July 26 for an R/T course and on August 3 he moved to 5 OTU, Aston Down for further training on Blenheims. He rejoined 600 Squadron on August 17 and flew his first operational sortie on the 20th. He was posted to 263 Squadron, flying Whirlwinds, on May 17 1941. On November 6 1941, while in the flying control room with several other airmen he received a serious injury to his right eye in an accident involving a shotgun. He was in hospital in Bath and a posting to 137 Squadron was cancelled. As a result of the injury he did not fly again. Albertini was commissioned in May 1942. During 1943 and 1944 he was a controller at several stations, including Coltishall. He served in Prague in 1945 and 1946 and was involved in the establishment and operation of flying control at the airport. He received the Czech Military Medal for Merit (1st Grade). Albertini was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in August 1992.

KEITH RUSSELL ALDRIDGE 91039

PO

Pilot British

501 Squadron

Born in April 1918, Aldridge was in the Auxiliary Air Force and joined 501 Squadron in 1937 and later underwent part-time flying training. He was embodied for full-time service and commissioned on August 24 1939. Aldridge was posted to 5 EFTS, Hanworth on October 21, completed his elementary flying and went on to 3 FTS, South Cerney for his intermediate and advanced flying training on March 25 1940, on No 33 Course, which ended on July 11. He rejoined 501 Squadron at Middle Wallop next day. On July 17 Aldridge was detached to RAF Uxbridge for an R/T course. From the 20th he was attached to the Biggin Hill Sector Training Flight for further training. On August 18 he was attached to 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill and he damaged a Do 17 on that day, on his first operational sortie. Next day he rejoined 501 Squadron, then based at Gravesend. In an engagement on August 24, Aldridge shot down a Ju 88 near Maidstone and damaged another but was

PO 13.5.42 FO 29.6.43 FL 13.5.44

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JOHN WILLIAM EDWARD ALEXANDER

himself shot down and he baled out, suffering burns and multiple fractures of an arm and shoulder. His Hurricane, L 1865, crashed near Pells Farm, West Kingsdown. After a spell in hospital, Aldridge was posted to RAF Kenley as non-effective sick on October 2 1940 and was transferred to RAF Hospital at Halton on December 5. On recovery, he was posted to the operations room at Rudloe Manor and he later went to Exeter, as a Controller. In early 1942 he did a refresher course at Hawarden, converted to Spitfires and then joined 33 Squadron in the Western Desert. Aldridge later went to 206 (Maintenance) Group as a test pilot and became Chief Test Pilot, Middle East, responsible for supplying pilots to units from Cyprus down to Khartoum. After his release from the RAF in 1946, Aldridge took up gliding, an interest he followed for the next forty years.

42178

Pilot British

151 Squadron

Alexander arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on December 28 and went to 2 Ferry Pilot Pool on January 26 1940. He was posted to No 1 Air Armament School at Manby on March 2, as a staff pilot. He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on June 17, converted to Hurricanes and then joined 151 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on July 1 1940. Flying from North Weald on August 28, Alexander’s aircraft was set alight in a combat over the Thames Estuary and he baled out, badly burned. The burning Hurricane, L 2005, crashed into a bungalow at Millthorpe, Godmersham at 4.30 pm. Alexander was admitted to hospital and was later transferred to the RAF Hospital at Halton. He returned to 151 Squadron, then at Digby, on November 21 and then seems to have been given two periods of sick leave before finally rejoining 151 on December 27 1940. Nothing further is known of Alexander’s service career but it would appear that he went on to the Reserve at the end of 1942 and was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant.

AYLMER JAMES MARTINUS ALDWINCKLE PO

Pilot British

Joining the RAF on a short service commission, Alexander began as a pupil pilot on May 1 1939 at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham. He moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill on July 10, on No 12 Course, and completed his training on December 9 1939.

APO 24 .8.39 PO 27.5.40 FO 27.5.41 FL 27.5.42

83288

PO

601 Squadron

Aldwinckle was born on March 29 1911 in Mendoza, Argentina, of British parents. He was educated in South Africa and then at the College of Aeronautical Engineering at Chelsea and Brooklands, qualifying as a Licensed Inspector on March 12 1936.

APO 24.6.39 PO 27.12.39 FO 27.12.40 FL 27.12.41 FL (RAFO) 1.1.43

GEOFFREY ALLARD 44551

His first job was with Imperial Airways, on DH 86s, Empire flying boats and DH and Bristol aero engines. On August 25th 1936 he joined Class ‘F’ of the RAF Reserve, as an Airman u/t Pilot (700659) and was with it until December 1937, when he transferred to the RAFVR, again as an Airman u/t Pilot (740909). He resumed his flying training at the Bristol Flying School at Filton, flew at 15 E&RFTS, Redhill from January 12 to December 3 1938 and then at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble from February 8 1939 until he was called to full-time service on September 4 1939. Aldwinckle was posted to 6 EFTS, Sywell on March 8 1940, moved on to 9 FTS, Hullavington on May 13 and on completion of the course there he went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 19. After converting to Hurricanes, Aldwinckle joined 601 Squadron at Exeter on September 11. In a squadron interception over Frome on the 25th he probably destroyed a Bf 110. On October 7 he claimed the probable destruction of a Do 215, which went down with both engines smoking. During a patrol on the 9th, Aldwinckle intercepted a He 111, which escaped into cloud. He was posted away from 601 on November 2 1940 and four days later joined 605 Squadron at Croydon. On the 15th he attacked a Bf 109, which dived through low cloud and was not seen again. Aldwinckle later learned that it landed in Kent and was captured. On another patrol later the same day, he probably destroyed a Bf 109. With his tour completed, Aldwinckle was posted to 55 OTU at Ouston on June 1 1941, as an instructor. In October 1941 he was sent to Calshot, to be in charge of the overhaul of Sunderland flying boats and self-sealing fuel tanks, for use on convoy patrol duties. This move came about because of his pre-war experience with Imperial Airways. In September 1942 Aldwinckle transferred to the Technical Branch (Engineering) and remained in it until his release from the RAF in 1946 as a Wing Commander. He returned to South Africa and took up civil flying. Aldwinckle formed the Swazi-Air Charter Company, which later became Swaziland’s national airline. On retirement, he returned to England to live. He died on April 5 2005.

PO

Pilot British

85 Squadron

Born in York on August 20 1912, Allard went to the Priory Higher Grade School there. He joined the RAF on September 3 1929, as an Aircraft Apprentice (563859). He passed out as an LAC Metal Rigger on August 19 1932 and he was posted to the maintenance staff at RAF College, Cranwell. He was there until March 3 1936, when he was posted to No 2 Armament Training Camp, North Coates. Allard later applied for pilot training. He was selected and on December 21 1936 he began his ab initio course at 2 E&RFTS, Filton. He was posted to 9 FTS, Thornaby on March 20 1937, moved with the unit to Hullavington on July 9, passed out as a Sergeant-Pilot on October 23 and then joined 87 Squadron

He was posted from 2 FTS, Brize Norton to 236 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on December 16 1939. He was still with 236 in July 1940 and served with it throughout the Battle of Britain. Alexander was commissioned in November 1940 and he was killed on February 25 1941, aged 22 and still with 236. He was flying a Blenheim on patrol from St Eval that was attacked and shot down by a Bf 109. The Blenheim fell into the sea and Sergeant E K Lindsay and Sergeant B M Mansfield were also lost. Alexander is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 31.

at Debden. On June 1 1938 Allard was posted to 85 Squadron, then being reformed with Gladiators at Debden. The squadron began receiving Hurricanes from September 1938. On September 9 1939 85 flew to France but saw little action before the blitzkrieg started on May 10 1940. On that first day Allard destroyed a He 111 and shared another, on the 11th he destroyed two He 111s, on the 12th he shot down two more, on the15th destroyed a He 111 and on the 16th another. He may have made further claims. After heavy losses, 85 was withdrawn to Debden on May 21.Allard was awarded the DFM (31.5.40). On July 8 he destroyed a He 111, on the 9th another and on the 30th he shared a Bf 110. Allard shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on August 6 with two other pilots, on the 24th he shot down a Bf 109, on the 26th he shared three Do 17s, on the 28th he destroyed two Bf 109s, on the 30th two He 111s, on the 31st a Bf 109 and probably two Do 17s and on September 1 he shot down a Bf 109 and shared a Do 17. Allard, who had been promoted to Flight Sergeant on July 10, was commissioned in August and in a squadron severely depleted by losses, he was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on September 6 and given command of ‘A’ Flight. He was awarded a Bar to the DFM (13.9.40) and the DFC (8.10.40). 85 Squadron was withdrawn from Croydon to Church Fenton on September 5, moving north for a rest. On the 22nd Allard, Flight Lieutenant J E Marshall and Flying Officer J A Hemingway flew a patrol over the western area of the Church Fenton sector. In poor weather conditions over Lancashire they ran low on fuel and each had to make a forced-landing, Allard near Clitheroe and Marshall and Hemingway near Burnley. All three aircraft were repairable. In November 1940 85 went to Gravesend to take on a night-fighting role. After returning to Debden in January 1941, the squadron began to convert from Hurricanes to Havocs in February. On March 13 Allard took off from Debden in a Havoc, with Pilot Officer W H Hodgson and Sergeant F R Walker-Smith as passengers. Shortly afterwards, the aircraft crashed at Mill Field Ley, just S of Wimbish. The three pilots were killed. It is believed that an insecurely-fastened nose panel flew off and jammed in the rudder, causing the aircraft to become uncontrollable. Allard is buried in Saffron Walden Borough Cemetery, Essex. His portrait was done by both Eric Kennington and Cuthbert Orde.

PO 27.11.40

PO 17.8.40

PO 17.8.40 FO 17.8.41 FL (T) (e) 1.9.42

SL (T) (e) 11.3.45

EDWARD ARISS ALEXANDER 88648

Sgt

Pilot British

236 Squadron

Alexander, of Steyning, joined the RAFVR as an Airman u/t Pilot (741595) in May 1938. He may have been one of the group of fifty RAFVR pilots who were attached to the RAF for six months of continuous training at 2 FTS, Brize Norton on July 15 1939.

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PETER OWEN DENYS ALLCOCK 42179

PO

Pilot British

the School of Naval Co-operation on flying duties and remained there until joining 151 Squadron at North Weald on February 13 1939. Allen went to France with other pilots of 151 on May 16 1940 to reinforce 87 Squadron, which had suffered heavy losses in the fighting. On the 19th he shared in the destruction of a Hs 126. He was wounded in his left arm by a bullet in the action and repatriated to England. He rejoined 151, then at Martlesham Heath, on June 5 1940. On the 30th he probably destroyed a Bf 109 over Vignacourt, Northern France. On July 12 the squadron was ordered off to protect a convoy, code-named ‘Booty’, from an approaching German formation. 151 attacked two staffeln of Do 17s about 20 miles E of Orfordness. Allen was caught in a withering cross-fire and his Hurricane, P 3275, was last seen gliding down with a dead engine. He is believed to have drowned. Allen is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 5.

229 Squadron

Allcock, from Herne Hill, London, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training on April 17 1939, as a pupil pilot. He completed his course at FTS, arrived at 6 OTU on April 28 1940 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 17 Squadron on May 12, moved soon afterwards to 213 Squadron and finished up joining 229 Squadron at Digby on May 20 1940. On September 23 he was shot down whilst acting as weaver on a squadron patrol. He baled out, wounded, and after landing at Westcliff he was admitted to Southend Hospital. His aircraft, Hurricane, P 2789, crashed on St Mary’s Marshes, Hoo. Allcock went with 229 to the Middle East in May 1941. On December 17 the squadron was part of the escort for Hurribombers of 80 Squadron, detailed to attack enemy vehicles near Mechili. The raid was frustrated when the British aircraft were attacked by Bf 109s and Mc 202s. Allcock was shot down and killed by Leutnant Hoffmann of 1/JG 27. With no known grave, Allcock is remembered on the Alamein Memorial, Column 240. He was 22 years old.

APO 9.8.37 PO 24.5.38 FO 24.12.39

JOHN LAURANCE ALLEN 70008

PO

Pilot British

54 Squadron

APO 10.6.39 PO 6.4.40 FO 6.4.41 Allen began his elementary flying training on May 31 1937, as a civilian. Commissioned for five years in Class ‘A’ of the RAFO, he reported to No1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on August 9 1937, as an Acting Pilot Officer.

HUBERT RAYMOND ALLEN 42582

PO

Pilot British

66 Squadron

He went to 8 FTS, Montrose on August 21.Whilst on a training flight on January 18 1938 he disappeared in fog over Forfarshire. Early next morning an RAF search plane spotted wreckage on Glen Dye Moor, Kincardineshire. Beside the wreck was a rescue party, laying down and spelling out the word ALIVE. An ambulance plane picked up Allen, badly injured. After a long stay in hospital, he finished his training and went on to the Reserve on September 18 1938. Allen applied for a short service commission and was granted one on December 5 1938. On this day he relinquished his RAFO commission and joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch. Allen was still with 54 in 1940. On May 21, between Dunkirk and Calais, Allen probably destroyed a Ju 88, 54 Squadron’s first victory. Two days later he and Alan Deere escorted Squadron Leader J Leathart, flying a Master, to Calais Marck airfield to pick up the CO of 74 Squadron, who was stranded there. Twelve Bf 109s attacked the Master but were engaged by Allen and Deere, who between them shot three down and badly damaged three, of which Allen destroyed one and damaged two others. On May 24 Allen shot down a Bf 109 in the Calais area, on the 25th he destroyed two Bf 110s and in the morning of the 26th another Bf 110 and probably a second. In this engagement his engine was hit by a cannon shell and he baled out over the Channel and was picked up by a corvette. Allen returned to his squadron later the same evening, dressed in a naval lieutenant’s uniform and carrying a kitbag. On the 27th he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 over the Dunkirk beach area. He was awarded the DFC (11.6.40) and received it from the King in a ceremony at Hornchurch on June 27, in company with Leathart and Deere, who were awarded the DSO and DFC respectively. Allen destroyed a Ju 88 on June 17 and shared in destroying a He 59 and probably a Bf 109 on July 9. His engine was damaged in combat with Bf 109s over Margate on July 24. He stalled while trying to reach Manston. He was then seen making for Foreness in a controlled descent with a dead engine, which suddenly restarted, causing him to again make for Manston. The engine stopped again and, trying to turn for Foreness a second time, he stalled and spun in and was killed, when his Spitfire, R 6812, crashed and burned out near the Old Charles Inn at Cliftonville. Allen was 24. He is buried in Margate Cemetery, Kent.

Born on March 19 1919, Allen joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 10 1939 at 11 E&RFTS, Perth. In late August he was posted to Hullavington for kittingout and a disciplinary course, after which he went to 15 FTS at Lossiemouth. After completing the course, Allen was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on April 6 1940. He converted to Spitfires and then joined 66 Squadron at Duxford on May 10. He damaged a Ju 88 on June 19. On August 30 Allen shared in destroying a Do 17, on September 9 he shared a He 111, on the 15th he shot down a He 111 and damaged a Do 17, on the 18th he destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another on the 30th. On October 11 Allen was concussed, when he made a forced-landing at Hawkinge, following combat, in which he got a probable Bf 109. He resumed operational flying on the 24th. On November 14 he destroyed a Ju 87 and damaged another. Over Edenbridge on the 28th, in Spitfire P 7492, Allen collided with Sergeant Willcocks in P 7491. Allen baled out and landed safely but Willcocks was killed. On December 11 Allen destroyed a Bf 109. He was wounded in the right arm on February 14 1941, after being jumped by Bf 109s. He crashed at Biggin Hill. Allen shot down a Bf 109 and shared another on June 20 and on August 20 he shared in the probable destruction of a Bf 109 off the Dutch coast. After being awarded the DFC (22.7.41), Allen was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader in October 1941 and given command of 66 Squadron. He was posted away in December 1941 to 286 Squadron, which carried out anti-aircraft co-operation duties. On August 19 1942, flying as a supernumerary with 131 Squadron, Allen damaged a Do 217 over the Channel. It was his last operational flight. Allen’s final war-time posting was as Officer i/c flying at a 2nd TAF airfield. After the war he remained in the RAF. He commanded No 1 Squadron from January to October 1946 and 43 Squadron from December 1949 to February 1952. He was a graduate of the RAF Staff College and retired on January 1 1965 as a Wing Commander. Allen died on May 31 1987. APO 2.9.39 PO 24.3.40 FO 24.3.41 FL 1.1.42 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.7.54

JAMES HENRY LESLIE ALLEN 39957

FO

Pilot New Zealander

APO (RAFO) 9.8.37 PO (RAFO) 18.9.38 PO 5.12.38 FO 5.7.40

151 Squadron

JOHN WATSON ALLEN

Born in Remuera, Auckland on November 13 1914, Allen was orphaned at four, when his parents both died in the 1918 influenza epidemic. He was brought up by his aunt and educated at Huntly School and Napier Boys’ High School.

135866

Sgt

Pilot British

266 Squadron

Allen joined the RAFVR in May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748321). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and joined 266 Squadron at Wittering from 7 OTU, Hawarden on October 7 1940. He was posted away to 64 Squadron at Hornchurch on November 27. On February 2 1941 Allen made a forced-landing at Stone, near Faversham, because of a lack of fuel, and was unhurt.

In 1931 Allen went to England for sea training and he joined HMS Conway in May. He won His Majesty’s Gold Medal in July 1933, as the most efficient cadet, and in August he joined the Blue Funnel Line, as a midshipman. In June 1936 Allen applied for a short service commission in the RAF. He was successful and began his ab initio training at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield on May 24 1937. After a short induction course at RAF Uxbridge, Allen was posted to 10 FTS, Dumfries. In March 1938, with his training completed, he was posted to

Allen was still with 64 on June 1 1941 but he disappears from the squadron ORB after this date. He was commissioned from Warrant Officer in November 1942 but no other service details have been traced. It is believed that Allen was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 23.11.42 FO 23.5.43 FL 23.11.44

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KENNETH MERVYN ALLEN 146710

F/Sgt Pilot British

The cause of the crash is unknown. Allgood is buried in St Mark’s Burial Ground, Grantchester, Cambridge. Allgood’s elder brother, Flight Sergeant-Pilot E A Allgood died on May 28 1942, whilst operating with 120 Squadron, flying in Liberators from Nutts Corner, Co Antrim, aged 30.

257, 43 and 253 Squadrons

Allen joined the RAFVR as an Airman u/t Pilot (754497) in May 1939. He was called up on September 1 and with training completed, he went from 5 OTU, Aston Down, to join 257 Squadron at Debden on September 1 1940.

JACK WHITWELL ALLISON 104382

He moved to 43 Squadron at Usworth on the 11th and to 253 at Kenley on the 28th. He was still with 253 in November 1940. Allen was commissioned from Warrant Officer in April 1943 and released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1984.

LESLIE HENRY ALLEN Sgt

Air Gunner

British

Pilot British

41, 611 and 92 Squadrons

Allison, of Eltham, London, joined the RAFVR in November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742613). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and was with 41 Squadron at Hornchurch by June 5 1940. On July 8 he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88.

P0 24.4.43 FO 24.10.43 FL 24.4.45

129967

Sgt

On October 12 Allison was posted to 611 Squadron at Digby but moved on to 92 Squadron, also at Digby, on October 27. He damaged a Bf 109 on November 17 1940. Commissioned in August 1941, Allison was killed on October 15 1942, serving with 32 MU, as a Flying Officer. His Mosquito broke up in the air. Flying Officer C M B Symons was also killed. Allison was 26 and was cremated at Pontypridd Crematorium, Glamorganshire.

141 Squadron

Allen was born in London on February 5 1921 and educated at Tottenham Grammar School. After leaving, he worked as a clerk in a solicitor’s office.

PO 15.8.41 FO 15.2.42 He joined the RAFVR in August 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (758116). Called to full-time service on September 1, Allen went on an elementary flying course at No 1 EFTS, Hatfield but failed on ground subjects. He re-mustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner on June 1 1940 and went to No 1 Air Armament School, Manby on the 22nd for No 9 Air Gunners’ Course. After completing this, he was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 6, to convert to Defiants. Allen joined 141 Squadron at Prestwick on August 6 1940 and served with it through the Battle of Britain. He remained with it until August 5 1941, when he was posted to 410 (RCAF) Squadron, then forming at Drem with Defiants. Whilst with the squadron, Allen went to CGS, Sutton Bridge for a Gunnery Leaders’ course. On March 5 1942 he joined 96 Squadron at Wrexham, again on night duties in Defiants. When the squadron was re-equipped with Beaufighters later in 1942 the air gunners were posted away and Allen went to 281 Squadron at Ouston, an ASR unit. Commissioned in August 1942, Allen applied for Pilot training, was accepted and in November he went to ITW at Torquay. In April 1943 he went to EFTS at Wolverhampton and in May he was posted to Canada. Allen was initially at Neepawa and in July moved to 33 FTS, Carberry, where he gained his wings on November 11 1943. After return to the UK, Allen served as a staff pilot at navigation training schools. Released from the RAF in February 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant, Allen went into cinema management, firstly at Southend-on-Sea and later in Sheffield. He retired in 1986 and died on December 16 2005 in Sheffield.

HAROLD GORDON LEACH ALLSOP 32184

SL

Pilot British

66 Squadron

Born on October 25 1909, Allsop joined the RAF on a short service commission in June 1932. He was posted to 4 FTS, Abu Sueir on August 26 and joined 84 Squadron at Shaibah, Iraq on August 25 1933. Allsop returned to Britain in 1936 and on November 30 he went to 608 Squadron, AAF at Thornaby, as Adjutant and Flying Instructor. He was granted a Permanent Commission on August 12 1938 and was still with 608 squadron, at the outbreak of war. In early 1940 Allsop was serving in France. He was posted back to England and arrived at RAF Digby on April 9 for Ops duties. On May 22 Allsop arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down for a refresher course and from June 5 he was attached to 66 Squadron at Coltishall, on administrative duties. He flew one operational sortie, a sector patrol on July 10. He was posted away to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on July 13, as CFI. He was posted from there on October 23 1941 for Air Staff duties. He retired from the RAF on October 25 1956 as a Wing Commander. Allsop died on January 12 1991. APO 12.8.32 PO 12.8.33 FO 12.3.35 FL 12 3.37 SL1.4.39 WC 1.3.41 WC 1.10.46

LESLIE CHARLES ALLTON 745436

Sgt

Pilot British

266 and 92 Squadrons

PO 21.8.42 FO 21.2.43 FL 21.8.44 Allton was born in Nuneaton in 1920, the son of a coal miner. He was at King Edward VI Grammar School from 1931 to 1937, where he was Captain of the school, as well as Captain of cricket football and hockey.

HAROLD HENRY ALLGOOD 565462

F/Sgt Pilot British

85 and 253 Squadrons

When he left, Warwickshire County Cricket Club wanted to sign him but he decided to join the more secure Midland Bank at Atherstone. On March 22 1939 Allton joined the RAFVR and began his weekend flying at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty. He was called to full-time service on September 1 and on October 7 he was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton. With training completed, Allton was posted to 12 OTU, Benson on March 25 1940, to convert to Battles. He joined 98 Squadron in France on May 18. After suffering heavy losses, the squadron withdrew to Gatwick on June 10. Allton was posted to 4 Ferry Pilot Pool at Kemble on August 1 1940. He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 3, converted to Spitfires and joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on the 16th. He moved to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill on the 30th. Allton was killed on October 19 1940, when he crashed at Tuesnoad Farm, Smarden, in Spitfire R 6922. The circumstances are not known but Allton’s name appeared in the casualty list as ‘Killed in Action’. He is buried in the Oaston Road Cemetery in Nuneaton. The site of the crash was excavated in the late 1970s and the engine, propeller and other items were recovered.

Born in Cambridge in 1915, Allgood went to the Central School there. He left school in July 1931, joined the RAF as an Aircraft Apprentice in September and passed out as a Metal Rigger in August 1934. He won the BarringtonKennett trophy for swimming in 1932. Allgood applied for pilot training and was recommended by the AOC on September 13 1938 but did not begin his ab initio course until July 1939. He went to 11 FTS, Shawbury on September 25 and completed the course on April 6 1940. He went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on April 19 and after converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 85 Squadron in France on May 14. When 85 was withdrawn to Debden on the 21st, Allgood was not with it. He was officially reported back on June 22 and was sent on leave because of a damaged collar bone, the result of being shot down during the latter stages of the campaign in France. He rejoined 85 Squadron for duty in July. On August 11 1940 Allgood claimed a Bf 110 destroyed in combat over a convoy off the east coast. He returned to base with his mainplane damaged by a Bf 110. He escaped unhurt from Hurricane P 2827, when he crashed making a dusk landing at Church Fenton on September 9. Allgood was posted to 253 Squadron at Kenley on September 28. He was killed on October 10, when his aircraft, Hurricane L 1928, crashed into houses at Albion Place, Maidstone. The aircraft hit No 63 but cut through the two adjoining houses, Nos 61 and 59. The Merlin engine was found in the cellar of No 59. Three women and five children were killed, from two families.

CHARLES FRANCIS AMBROSE 42583

PO

Pilot British

46 Squadron

Ambrose joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 10 1939, as a pupil pilot. He completed his training and was posted to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on February 23 1940.

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postings and command positions, he volunteered for pilot training and went to the Military Aviation Academy at Prostejov on June 1 1929. Upon completion of his pilot training Ambrus was assigned, as Co-Commander, to the 6th Air Regiment at Kbel, on November 15 1929. During the 1930s he distinguished himself as a skilled aerobatic pilot in national and international events including in Europe and Africa. Due to his skill as a pilot, Ambrus was appointed Commander of the 1st Experimental Squadron at Prague –Letnany airbase on April 30 1934. Here he was testing prototype aircraft for military use including the Zlin XIII. He was promoted to Major-Lieutenant on July 1 1935. During 1937 and 1938 he attended Military College for Staff Officers. He was, at this time, the highest ranking Slovak national in the Czechoslovak Air Force. When the Germans marched into Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939 Ambrus was stationed in Prague. Being a Slovak he was repatriated to the newly formed “puppet state” of Slovakia, promoted to Lieutenant Colonel, and appointed to a senior role in the Slovak Ministry of Defence. Due to poor, equipment, personnel and internal politics, Ambrus resigned on August 1 1939. On September 3 1939, with the assistance of the Yugoslav Consul General, in Bratislava, Ambrus escaped across the Slovak border and made his way to Yugoslavia from where he travelled on to France. On October 15 1939 he was posted to the Czechoslovak CSVS Department, in Paris. In April 1940 Ambrus enlisted in l’Armee de l’Air and on April 15 was posted to Chatres for retraining on to French equipment. Between May 16 1940 and June 13 1940, during the Battle of France, he flew operationally with l’Escadrille de Defense legere at Chatres. When France capitulated, Ambrus was evacuated, from Bordeaux, aboard the ship Ary Schaeffer, bound for Falmouth, England. He arrived in England in June 1940. Ambrus enlisted in the RAFVR and was commissioned, on July 12 1940, as a Pilot Officer with an acting rank of Squadron Leader. He joined 310 Squadron at Duxford, then serving as a receiving unit for Czech personnel. He was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 17. After converting to Hurricanes, Ambrus went to Duxford on September 9 to be joint Commanding Officer of the newlyformed 312 Squadron, sharing the command with Squadron Leader F H Tyson. On October 13 Ambrus, Flight Lieutenant Comerford and Sergeant Stehlik attacked a pair of Blenheim aircraft of 29 Squadron which they mistook for enemy aircraft. One L-6637 (RO-S) was shot down near Point of Ayr, Flintshire, with the crew not surviving. On the 15th Ambrus, Comerford and Pilot Officer Vybiral were flying as Yellow Section on a routine patrol. They lost their bearings and were soon low on fuel. Ambrus made a wheels up landing at Carnforth. His Hurricane, V6846, was slightly damaged. Vybiral baled out and Comerford made a forced landing in the same area. All three men were unhurt. After joining the Czech Inspectorate General, in London, on December 17 1940, Ambrus did no more operational flying. On March 7 1941 he was promoted to Wing Commander and, in June, was posted to Canada as a member of the Czechoslovak Military Mission which recruited amongst the Czechoslovak expatriate communities in Canada and neutral USA. When the Military Mission ceased, in 1943, Ambrus was appointed as Czechoslovak Military and Air Attaché for Canada, based in Ottawa. On January 24 1945 Ambrus was awarded the OBE. After the war, Ambrus returned to Czechoslovakia and, in December 1945, was promoted to Brigadier General in command of VO4 in Bratislava. Following the takeover of Czechoslovakia by the communists in February 1948, Ambrus requested his release from the Czechoslovak Air Force. On March 21 1948, assisted by the US military authorities he escaped from Czechoslovakia into the American zone in Germany. From there he travelled to England and then on to the USA. Ambrus died on January 2 1994, in Chicago, USA.

He converted to Hurricanes and joined 46 Squadron at Digby on April 1. Ambrose served in Norway with 46 in late May/early June and was evacuated by the Royal Navy on June 8. He rejoined the squadron when it was reformed at Digby on June 15 1940. Ambrose damaged three Bf 110s on August 18 and shot down a Bf 109 on September 2, which made a crash landing at Tile Lodge Farm, Hoath, with the pilot captured. Two days later Ambrose was shot down by Bf 109s, in combat over Rochford. He baled out of Hurricane P 3066, unhurt. On September 8 he probably destroyed a Bf 110 and a Bf 109 and damaged a Do 17, on October 7 he damaged a Bf 109 and on the 29th he destroyed another. He was flying with Pilot Officer P W Lefevre of 46 in the early afternoon of November 3 near Gravesend, when they intercepted a Do 17 of 8/KG 3, which was being fired on by anti-aircraft guns. They shot the bomber down and it crashed at Bexley, with four of the crew killed and one captured. This man died of his wounds the following day. On November 30 Ambrose had to bale out again when he was shot down in combat over Dungeness. He was awarded the DFC (24.12.40). In March 1941 Ambrose joined 71 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey but returned to 46 Squadron a few weeks later. On May 20 1941 46’s pilots sailed in HMS Ark Royal, ultimately bound for the Middle East. The carrier made for Malta, where the pilots flew off their Hurricanes, landing at Ta Kali airfield. 46’s ground crews had sailed earlier, through the South Atlantic, via the Cape, en route to the Middle East. As there would be no aircraft available when these personnel arrived at their destination, the pilots were retained in Malta. On June 28 1941, 126 Squadron was reformed at Ta Kali with the pilots of 46 Squadron and new ground crews. Ambrose was posted away from 126 on November 9 1941 and flew to Egypt in a Sunderland. He joined 112 Squadron at Sidi Barrani, as a Flight Commander, to fly Tomahawks. On December 5 he probably destroyed a Fiat G 50 in the Tobruk/El Adem area. In January 1942 Ambrose was posted to the newly-formed Air Fighting School at Edku, Egypt, remaining there until October, when he joined 73 Squadron in the Western Desert. After return to the UK in September 1943, he joined the staff of 53 OTU, Kirton-inLindsey. He did no more operational flying. Ambrose remained in the RAF after the war. He commanded 43 Squadron from March 1946 to May 1947, was awarded the AFC (29.10.48) and held staff appointments in Britain and overseas. He qualified on the Senior Officers’ War Course at the Royal Naval War College, was a graduate of the RAF College of Air Warfare and qualified in Staff Studies. Ambrose was made a CBE (8.6.68) and he retired on January 27 1972 as a Group Captain. He died in 1986. APO 2.9.39 PO 24.2.40 FO 24.2.41 FL 24.2.42 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.1.57 GC 1.1.62

RICHARD AMBROSE 73040 PO Pilot British 25 and 151 Squadrons Ambrose was educated at Ellesmere School. He went on to Imperial College, where he read Engineering at the School of Mines. He was a member of the London University Air Squadron. Commissioned in the RAFVR in June 1939, Ambrose was called up on October 21. With training completed, he joined the Autogiro Flight at Odiham on April 20 1940, which moved to France shortly afterwards to carry out communications duties. Ambrose was posted as a staff pilot to 5 Radio Maintenance Unit at Duxford on July 22, the duty of which was to provide calibration for the RDF stations. He left the unit on August 7 1940 to go to 5 OTU, Aston Down, where he converted to Blenheims. He joined 25 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on August 18 but moved to Stapleford on the 26th, to join 151 Squadron. He was 21 years old and is buried in Epping Cemetery, Essex.

PO 12.7.40 WC 7.3.41

CYRIL ANDERSON 47589

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

FIU

Born on July 15 1914, Anderson joined the RAF in August 1935, as an Aircraft hand (522682). At some time he re-mustered and trained as an Air Gunner.

PO (RAFVR) 20.6.39 PO 21.10.39 In October 1940 he was serving with the Fighter Interception Unit and he flew some operational sorties during the Battle of Britain. Anderson probably later had training in radar operation and became a Radio Observer. He was still a Sergeant when he was commissioned in the Technical Branch on October 21 1941. He received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.42). He was posted away from the FIU to 23 Squadron at Ford on January 31 1942. Anderson retired on October 27 1955, as a Flight Lieutenant.

JAN AMBRUS 81883

SL

Pilot Czechoslovakian

312 Squadron

Ambrus was born on May 19 1899 in Goma Mitropolia, Bulgaria. At the time of his birth his family were expatriate Slovaks living in Bulgaria. On completion of his schooling Ambrus joined the Austo-Hungarian army as a cadet and entered a 4 year training course at the Artillery College in Traiskirchen, near Vienna. He graduated on August 21 1919 and was assigned to 21 Mountain Artillery Regiment at Ruzomberk.

PO 21.10.41 FO 21.4.43 FL 1.9.45

DONALD JOHN ANDERSON 79739

PO

Pilot British

29 Squadron

Anderson was born in London on April 19 1919 and went to West Leigh School and Westcliff High School for Boys. He joined the RAFVR on April 5 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745607), and began his flying training at 34 E&RFTS, Rochford.

He volunteered for the newly formed Czechoslovak Air Force on March 31 1925 and was sent to the Military Aviation Academy at Chleb where he trained as an aerial artillery observer. Following training he was posted to the 1st Air Regiment at Prague-Kbely. Following several promotions, unit

Called up on September 1 1939, he went to 4 ITW, Bexhill at the end of October and

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to Sergeant in March 1942. Anderson applied for pilot training and was accepted in September 1942. In 1943 he was a deputy controller at a small radar station at Goldsborough, Yorkshire. In September 1943 Anderson began his pilot training but he had still not qualified when training was terminated in April 1945. Anderson was then posted to RAF Atherstone for a GCA course, after which he went to 10 GCA, RAF Hemswell in November 1945 as a Flight Sergeant. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in June 1955, Anderson retired from the RAF on January 31 1973 as a Squadron Leader. He then joined Customs and Excise and retired again on April 22 1984. Anderson died on April 25 2007.

then to 11 FTS, Shawbury on November 19. With the course completed, Anderson was commissioned and posted to No 2 School of Army Co-operation, Andover on June 15 1940 but a week later he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down for conversion to Blenheims, after which he joined 29 Squadron at Digby on July 7. He remained with the squadron until July 20 1941 and after an attachment to RAF Kirton-in-Lindsey he was posted to 89 Squadron, then forming at Colerne with Beaufighters. The squadron flew out to the Middle East in late November 1941 and began operating from Abu Sueir, Egypt in the night defence of the Delta. In early March 1942 Anderson was medically regraded A2B and posted to No 1 Section Aircraft Delivery Unit, Wadi Natrun. Six months later he lost his flying category and was posted to a ground radar unit. Over the next eighteen months he served at a number of units in the Middle East. From April 2 1944 Anderson was Camp Commandant at Makadini, a Catalina base on the coast of East Africa. In early September he returned to radar units and for a spell in October 1944 he was Fighter Direction Officer on HMS Ulster Queen, scanning the Greek Islands. After five months as a Station Adjutant, Anderson embarked for home on December 12 1945. He was at RAF Wartling until his release on June 28 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. Anderson died in 2000.

PO 8.6.55 FO 8.12.55 FL 18.11.58

MICHAEL FREDERIC ANDERSON 90206

Pilot British

253 Squadron

Anderson was born on November 22 1916 in Brockley, London. He worked for a time in the menswear cutting department of C&A, but then went into the RAF in the mid1930s, as a Boy Entrant (555829). In 1939 he began training as an Airman Pilot. He appears to have been involved in an accident on April 26 1940. Anderson joined 253 Squadron in early June 1940. On the 12th he was checked out in a Miles Master by the CO, Squadron Leader Gleave. The squadron had two old Fairey Battles for hack work. On August 3 Anderson was tasked to fly one from Northolt to |Turnhouse. Over Co Durham the aircraft caught fire. An airman passenger in the rear gunner’s well was too shaken to jump and Anderson, despite the flames, climbed along the fuselage trying to persuade the airman to do so. Unfortunately Anderson was blown off by the slipstream and landed by parachute after suffering some burns. The airman eventually pulled his rip-cord while still in the well and was snatched clear by the open parachute, breaking a leg on the main plane but otherwise landing safely. Anderson’s gallant action did not become known until much later. In the evening of September 14 he was shot down in combat with Bf 109s and crashed near Faversham, in Hurricane P 3804. Admitted to Faversham Hospital with severe burns, he was later moved to the Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, where he underwent plastic surgery, becoming a Guinea Pig in the process. Commissioned from Warrant Officer on July 8 1943, Anderson was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flying Officer. He worked as a specialist in the management of grain and root crops. He died, following illness, on May 28 1978.

PO (AAF) 4.11.30 FO (AAF) 4.5.32 FL (AAF) 6.6.35 FL 24.8.39 SL 1.3.40 WC 1.6.42

CHRISTOPHER JOHN DRAKE ANDREAE 70018

Pilot British

64 Squadron

Andreae was called to full-time service on December 15 1939 and completed his training at RAF College FTS, Cranwell, on No 8 Course, which ran from March 6 to June 22 1940. He went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 22, converted to Spitfires and joined 64 Squadron at Kenley on July 20. On August 11 he returned to base, in Spitfire N 3293, with damage caused by cannon fire from an enemy fighter engaged off Dover. Four days later Andreae failed to return from a combat with Bf 109s over the Channel. He was 23 years old. He was never heard of again and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 5.

JOHN DENIS ANDERSON British

FO

A Londoner, Andreae was educated at Shrewsbury School from 1930 to 1935 and then went to Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge, where he read Natural Science. He was with the University Air Squadron there, was commissioned into Class ‘AA’ of the RAFO on March 16 1937 and was commissioned in the RAFVR in January 1938.

PO 8.7.43 FO 22.3.45

1052185 AC2 Radar Operator

604 Squadron

In the pre-war years he attended camps and courses and was with 23 Squadron, at Biggin Hill in March 1935 and at Northolt in July 1937. Called to full-time service on August 24 1939, Anderson was then ‘A’ Flight Commander of 604. He was detached from the squadron to the AFDU at Northolt on February 5 1940, for a ten-day course. Anderson assumed command of 604 Squadron on March 28 1940 and led it throughout the Battle of Britain. On August 11 he shared in the destruction of a He 59 in mid-Channel. On October 30 he flew the first operational patrol in a Beaufighter and in the evening of November 28 he probably destroyed a Ju 88 off Warmwell. On December 20 1940 Anderson went to No 1 Blind Approach School at Watchfield, on No 9 Course, rejoining 604 on January 4 1941. During the evening of March 14 1941 Anderson shot down a He 111 into the sea off Beer Head, in Lyme Bay. He was awarded the DFC (25.3.41). The citation stated that he had carried out many night operational flights and that, in addition to the He 111, he had probably destroyed a Ju 88 at night and one enemy aircraft in daylight. In early April 1941 Anderson was posted to RAF High Ercall, to command. After three months he went to HQ 9 Group, Preston, then to the Middle East, to serve at HQ 250 Wing, Ismailia. A series of staff appointments followed, the last being at Air HQ, Levant. Anderson was released from the RAF on October 3 1945 as a Wing Commander. He died in 1993.

JOHN ANTHONY ANDERSON Sgt

Pilot British

A member of the Stock Exchange, Anderson joined 604 Squadron, AAF on October 4 1930 and was commissioned a month later.

PO 9.6.40 FO 9.6.41 FL 9.6.42

187307

SL

604 Squadron

Born on April 22 1922, Anderson joined the RAFVR at No 3 RAF Depot, Padgate on June 6 1940. At the end of the month he was posted to No 2 Electrical and Wireless School at RAF Yatesbury, for what he expected to be the start of a Wop/AG course. Instead, he found himself learning about airborne radar and in late July he was posted to 604 Squadron at Gravesend, never having flown.

PO (RAFO) 16.3.37 PO (RAFVR) 1.1.38 PO 15.12.39

FO 15.12.39

STANLEY ANDREW 740169

Anderson flew operationally with 604, firstly in Blenheims and then Beaufighters, until December 1940, when he was posted back to Yatesbury for another radar course. In these five months Anderson flew operationally without rank or brevet, receiving three shillings per day, which included one shilling flying pay. In January 1941 he was posted to a radar station at Saligo, Islay, Scotland. He went to No 1 Radio School at Cranwell in May, as an instructor. Then a Corporal, he was made up

Sgt

Pilot British

46 Squadron

Andrew, from Swanland, Yorkshire, joined the RAFVR in April 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Having reached the required high standard, Andrew was given the opportunity to have six months training with the regular RAF. He joined 46 Squadron at Digby in April 1939. Still with the squadron at the outbreak of war, he was retained.

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was ordered to the Middle East and embarked on the carrier HMS Argus. At Gibraltar pilots and aircraft were transferred to HMS Ark Royal and they flew off for Malta on November 12. On December 29 1941 he was shot down into the sea by a Bf 109 and rescued by an ASR launch. A detachment of 605 Squadron Hurricanes arrived at Hal Far, Malta on January 10 1942 and Andrews was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader and given command of it. The unit operated as 605, although the main body of the squadron was in the Far East. Andrews relinquished his command and acting rank on February 27 1942, when the 605 unit was disbanded. He was then posted to Egypt. On August 9 1942 Andrews was killed in a flying accident, whilst serving with 3 Aircraft Maintenance Unit. The engine of the Tomahawk he was flying failed while landing at Moascar, Egypt and the aircraft struck a building. He is buried in Ismailia War Memorial Cemetery, Egypt.

On May 18 1940 he sailed with the squadron for Norway in the carrier HMS Glorious. The Hurricanes flew off the carrier, landing at Skaanland on the 26th. The campaign was shortlived. On June 7 46’s surviving Hurricanes were flown back on to the Glorious, the first time such a landing had been attempted. The carrier was sunk next day, when it met the two German battleships Scharnhorst and Gneisenau. Only two of the squadron’s pilots were among the few survivors. Andrew was among other members of the squadron, evacuated from Norway by sea on June 8. Back at Digby, the squadron reformed on June 15 and was operational again on the 26th. On September 1 46 moved south to Stapleford Tawney. On the 8th Andrew shot down a Do 17 of 5/KG 2, which exploded over Leeds Castle, near Maidstone, killing the crew. In the same sortie he also damaged another Do 17. His own aircraft, Hurricane P 3525, was damaged by a Bf 109 over Sheppey but he got back safely to base. During an uneventful patrol on September 11, Andrew, flying the same aircraft, was killed when the Hurricane crashed and burned out. He is buried in the churchyard of All Saints, North Ferriby, Yorkshire. Andrew was 21 years old. He is remembered on a memorial plaque at Swanland Primary School.

PO 2.9.40 FO 2.5.41

TADEUSZ ANDRUSZKOW P 5125

Sgt

Air Gunner

New Zealander

He reported to the Air Observers’ School, Ohakea on March 11 1940, to train as an observer but soon afterwards he re-mustered to trainee air gunner. With the course completed he sailed for Britain on April 26. He arrived in early June and went to No 1 RAF Depot, at Uxbridge. On July 17 1940 Andrews was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down. After converting to Defiants, he joined 264 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on August 29. He served with the squadron in the Battle of Britain. Andrews was commissioned in early June 1942 and when the squadron converted to Mosquitos later in the month he was posted away, joining 277 (Air Sea Rescue) Squadron on July 15. When he left 264, Andrews had flown 122 operational sorties. Early in 1942 Andrews applied for pilot training and on August 22 he left 277 for 13 ITW. After completing his ground course he moved to 26 EFTS, thence to Heaton Park, Manchester, to await a posting overseas. He sailed for Canada in March 1943, completed his training at various flying schools and passed out as a twin-engine pilot in January 1944. Two months later he was repatriated to New Zealand. Andrews was posted as a staff pilot to the School of Navigation and Reconnaissance at New Plymouth, where he was eventually appointed a Flight Commander. He was transferred to the Reserve on December 24 1945 and returned to Hamilton, where he died on March 24 1971.

JAMES ANGUS 55202

Air Gunner

British 23

Squadron

At some time he trained as an Air Gunner and he was with 23 Squadron at Collyweston in early June 1940, as an LAC. He was a Sergeant by September 7 and was still with 23 in November 1940. Angus was commissioned in June 1943 and remained in the RAF after the war, serving in the Aircraft Control Branch. He retired on June 1 1965, as a Flight Lieutenant. Angus died on October 14 1984.

SYDNEY ERNEST ANDREWS Pilot British

Sgt

Born on May 21 1915, Angus enlisted in the RAF in June 1935, as an Aircrafthand (520663).

PO 3.6.42 FO 3.12.42 FL 3.6.44

PO

303 Squadron

He qualified as a fighter pilot at Krosno in 1939, was posted to the 6th Air Force Regiment, Lwow and joined 162 Fighter Squadron. After the fighting in September 1939, the unit went to Romania. He eventually reached France, where he trained on French fighter aircraft. When France fell, he escaped to England, arriving there in July 1940. Andruszkow then was sent to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. He joined 303 Squadron at Northolt on August 21. The squadron converted its own pilots to Hurricanes but some that were felt to be in need of further training were sent to 5 OTU, Aston Down. Andruszkow went there on August 27 1940 and rejoined 303 on September 10. He shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on the 15th. On the same day he was himself shot down in combat with Bf 109s over Dartford and he baled out, unhurt. His Hurricane, P 3939, is believed to be the one which crashed that day in Lower Stoke. Andruszkow destroyed a He 111 on September 26. On the following morning he was shot down over Horsham and killed when his aircraft, Hurricane V 7246, crashed in flames at Holywych Farm, Cowden. Andruszkow was 19 years old and he is buried in Northwood Cemetery, Middlesex. He was posthumously awarded the KW (1.2.41).

264 Squadron

At the outbreak of war Andrews was running a motor engineering and garage business in Hamilton. At 29, he was old by normal aircrew standards, when he volunteered for flying duties and was accepted.

44567

Pilot Polish

Born in Lwow on November 18 1920, Andruszkow entered the PAF NCOs Training School at Bydgoszcz in 1936.

MAURICE RAYMOND ANDREWS 40615

Sgt

32 and 257 Squadrons

Andrews joined the RAF as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot in 1936 (580319). He began his elementary flying training on August 24 and after having successfully completed the course, he was formally enlisted in the RAF on October 19.

P0 11.6.43 FO 11.12.43 FL 11.6.45 FL 11.12.47

ROBERT ALEXANDER ANGUS 748062

He was serving with 150 Squadron at Benson in August 1939, flying Battles, and went with it to France on the day before the outbreak of war, September 2 1939. During the Battle of France, the squadron suffered heavy losses and it was withdrawn to England on June 15 1940, to its new base at Abingdon. Andrews volunteered for Fighter Command and he was commissioned on September 2 1940, with effect from May 10. On September 9 he joined 32 Squadron at Acklington and moved to 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on the 22nd of the month. Andrews was awarded the DFM (5.11.40) for service in France. Both his regular crew members received the award as well. 257 Squadron had great success when it met the Italian Air Force, making its only raid on London, on November 11 1940. Andrews shared in the destruction of a Fiat BR 20. He was posted away on December 25 to 55 OTU, Aston Down, as an instructor. In October 1941 he was with 242 Squadron at Valley, as a Flight Commander. The unit

Sgt

Pilot British

611 and 41 Squadrons

Angus, of Edinburgh, joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot, in May 1939. He was called up for full-time service on September 1 1939. He did his elementary flying at 12 EFTS and was on No 49 Course at 5 FTS, Sealand from June 17 to September 7 1940, passing out as a Sergeant-Pilot. He converted to Spitfires at 7 OTU, Hawarden and then joined 611 Squadron at Ternhill on September 29. Angus damaged a Do 17 on October 11. He went to 41 Squadron at Hornchurch next day and on October 30 he damaged a Bf 109. On February 20 1941 Angus was shot down by Werner Mölders over Dover, in Spitfire P 7322. He was seen to bale out over the sea but was never found. He was 21 years old. Angus is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 38.

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MICHAEL JOHN APPLEBY 90962

PO

Pilot British

after the war and was commissioned in the RAFVR in October 1947. He died on September 1 1952.

609 Squadron

PO 22.8.43 FO 29.2.44 FL 30.8.45 FO (RAFVR) 31.10.47 FL (RAFVR) 31.12.48

Appleby went to The Leys School at Cambridge. He joined 609 Squadron, AAF in December 1938 and was called up on August 24 1939. He was placed on the strength of RAF Yeadon on the 27th.

PAUL WADE ARBON 41893

He was posted to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on October 9, on No 15 Course. He was at 10 B&GS, Warmwell on April 24 1940 with the Advanced Training Squadron of 6 FTS, for armament training. The course ended on the 27th and he rejoined 609 on May 5. Appleby claimed a Ju 87 shot down and shared in the probable destruction of two more on July 9 1940 and destroyed a Bf 110 on August 8. On this day his Spitfire was damaged in combat with Bf 110s over the Isle of Wight. On August 13 he got a probable Bf 109 and damaged a Ju 87, on September 15 he shared a Do 17 and damaged three others and on the 30th he destroyed a Bf 109. From November 26 to December 24 1940, Appleby was at CFS, Upavon, for an instructors’ course on Masters and Tutors. He served as an instructor at 11, 17 and 21 EFTS, from January 1941 until he was released from the RAF in September 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 2003. Appleby’s portrait was drawn by Cuthbert Orde in November 1940.

Pilot British

66 Squadron and 421 Flt

Appleford was born on September 16 1921, making him one of the youngest pilots in the Battle of Britain. As a candidate for a short service commission, he began his ab initio training at 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick on August 8 1939. After a short induction course at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge he was posted to 11 FTS, Shawbury on September 26. With his training completed, Appleford joined 66 Squadron at Duxford on May 13 1940. He was shot down over the Thames Estuary on September 4 and baled out, slightly wounded. His Spitfire, P 9316, crashed near Howe Green Farm, Purleigh. He was sent on seven days sick leave. Appleford was occasionally attached to 421 Flight. On October 17 1940 he carried out a W/T test and on November 9 he flew a patrol with 421. Posted from 66 Squadron on December 13 1940, Appleford went to 8 FTS, Montrose for an instructor’s course, after which he was posted to Southern Rhodesia, to instruct at 22 SFTS, Gwelo. He was hospitalised on November 3 1941, firstly in Nairobi and then Durban until midApril 1942. Appleford went north and joined the Aircraft Delivery Unit, Cairo on June 2, staying with it until January 10 1943, when he was posted to 274 Squadron, Benghazi, to fly Hurricanes on coastal defence. His tour completed, Appleford was posted to 71 OTU, Ismailia, as an instructor. After six weeks he returned to the Aircraft Delivery Unit and on November 15 1943 he went south again to the Central Flying School, Bloemfontein. From early February 1944 until May 1945 Appleford instructed at Air Schools in South Africa. He returned to Britain on July 1 1945 and joined 587 Squadron at Weston Zoyland on August 24. Robin Appleford was released from the RAF in August 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on April 17 2012.

APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41 SL 17.7.44

JOHN ARBUTHNOT 564104

Pilot British

Pilot British

1 and 229 Squadrons

He joined the RAF as an Aircraft Apprentice in January 1930 and passed out as a Metal Rigger in December 1932. He signed an engagement for twelve years on February 13 1932, his eighteenth birthday. Arbuthnot later applied for pilot training and was selected. He began his elementary flying training at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty on September 27 1937, as an LAC. He moved to 10 FTS, Ternhill on December 13, on No 7 Course. With this completed on September 27 1938, he joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere. On December 15th 1939 Arbuthnot baled out of Hurricane L 1725, after spinning in cloud. The aircraft crashed on peat moorland, burying itself deeply. It was dug out in 1978. On the evening of April 8 1940 a force of German bombers was sent to attack the naval base at Scapa Flow. 43 was scrambled from its base at Wick to intercept the raiders. Arbuthnot was one of the first of the squadron to make contact and he emptied his guns into a He 111, which dived into a layer of cloud. Posted to France, to join No 1 Squadron on May 16, Arbuthnot was soon in action. He returned to base at Boos after a combat on June 4, with his radiator shot away. He was with the squadron during the Battle of Britain and made his last flight with No 1 on October 1 1940 and then joined 229 Squadron at Northolt, flying his first operational sortie on the 5th. On February 4 1941 229 Squadron was ordered to provide an escort for an aircraft carrying the American politician Wendell Wilkie. Arbuthnot crashed and was killed during this duty, aged 26. His body was washed ashore on April 14 near Garston. He is buried in Wilton Cemetery, Carluke, Lanarkshire.

IVOR KENNETH ARBER Sgt

Sgt

Arbuthnot was born on February 13 1914 at Cobbinshaw, West Lothian. He went to Braehead and Carranshore schools.

APO 9.10.39 PO 18.5.40 FO 18.5.41 FL 18.5.42

156944

85 Squadron

After a short induction course at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, Arbon went to 6 FTS, Little Rissington, where he completed his flying training. On November 20 1939 he went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum for a short course, after which he joined the Pilots’ Pool at Andover in early January 1940. Arbon returned to Old Sarum on the 16th of the month and joined 16 Squadron. Equipped with Lysanders, the squadron went to France on April 8 but was withdrawn on May 19. Arbon volunteered for Fighter Command and went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 8. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 85 Squadron at Church Fenton on the 26th and served with it in the Battle of Britain. He left 85 Squadron on June 15 1942 and went soon afterwards to 54 OTU, Charter Hall, as an instructor. A return to operations came on January 31 1943, when Arbon joined 29 Squadron at West Malling, as a Flight Commander. He was awarded the DFC (14.4.44) and he took command of the squadron on April 29, as an Acting Wing Commander. With his tour completed, Arbon was posted to RAF Bradwell Bay on July 11 1944, as Station Commander. He moved to RAF Hunsdon, to command, on March 22 1945. A month later he was appointed to a staff job at HQ Transport Command. Arbon was posted to 216 Group, Heliopolis on June 11 1945, taking command of 249 Wing at Bari two weeks later. He returned to England at the end of the year and was released in 1946, as a Wing Commander. Arbon started an Auction and Estate Agency in Hertfordshire. In 1967 he was elected the first President of the National Association of Estate Agents. The Association’s HQ in Warwick is called Arbon House. He died on November 21 1968, after a car accident in France.

ALEXANDER NELSON ROBIN LANGLEY APPLEFORD PO

Pilot British

Born in Sydenham on February 8 1921, Arbon was educated at Brockley County School. He joined the RAF on a short service commission, went to 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham on January 23 1939 and finished his ab initio training at 11 E&RFTS, Scone.

APO 24.8.39 PO9.12.39 FO 9.12.40 FL 9.12.41

42736

PO

603 Squadron

Arber joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742741), in December 1938 and was called up on September 1 1939. He did his advanced flying training at 8 FTS, Montrose and completed the course in May 1940. He probably joined 603 Squadron at Dyce in the latter half of June.

HAROLD THORPE ARCHER

On July 3 Arber shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 off the east coast of Scotland and on the 12th he shared a He 111 with Pilot Officer Gilroy and Sergeant Caister, in an engagement over Aberdeen. The enemy aircraft, from 9/KG 26, crashed and burned out, killing the crew of four. On August 2 1940 Arber crashed at Inkhorn, Aberdeenshire, in Spitfire R 6717. The squadron ORB gives no details and there is no further mention of Arber therein. Commissioned in August 1943, Arber was awarded the AFC (1.1.45). He left the RAF

747939

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

23 Squadron

Archer joined the Aircraft Crew Section of the RAFVR in May 1939, as a u/t Wop/AG. He was called up on September 1. With training completed, he joined 23 Squadron at Ford on October 1 1940. In 1941 he

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JOSEPH FOX ARMITAGE

was with 7 Squadron, flying in Stirlings from Oakington, Cambridgeshire. Archer failed to return from an operation to Hamburg on June 30 1941, in Stirling N6001, shot down by a night fighter of 6/NJG 1. He is buried in Becklingen War Cemetery, Soltau, Germany.

741932

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

He went to 4 Ferry Pilot Pool on May 12 1940 but was posted to the AASF in France on the 29th. He had joined 242 Squadron before June 24 and may even have joined it in France before it was withdrawn from there to England on June 18 1940. The last reference to Armitage in the 242 Squadron ORB is on August 2 1940, after which he was, presumably, posted away. He was killed on June 17 1941, serving as a Flight Sergeant with 234 Squadron at Portreath. With no known grave, Armitage is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 35.

Archer was a member of the crew of Blenheim Z 5729, which was flying over Pembroke Dock on the afternoon of August 20, when it was damaged by anti-aircraft fire. The captain, Pilot Officer G Campbell, returned the aircraft safely back to base at St Eval. Archer was posted away with his flight to Aldergrove on November 19 1940, which was combined with a flight of 235 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron. He flew his first operational sortie with 272 on the 23rd. Some time later Archer was captured by the Germans. He was in Stalag Luft 7 at Bankau, near Kreulberg in Upper Silesia (PoW No 90105). When freed in May 1945 Archer was a Warrant Officer. He stayed in the RAF, becoming a Master Signaller on February 10 1956. Archer died in 1980.

WILLIAM ARMSTRONG 41812

Pilot British

PO

602 Squadron

On July 5 1940 Aries joined 602 Squadron, also at Drem. He went south with the squadron to Westhampnett in mid-August. On the 26th Aries claimed a Do 17 destroyed off Selsey Bill. He claimed a Do 17 shot down near Biggin Hill on September 7. His own aircraft, Spitfire K 9839, was damaged by return fire and Aries made a crash-landing at Wrotham, Kent. He only flew one more sortie with 602, an uneventful patrol on September 14, in Spitfire X 4269. He was then grounded and to use his own words, ‘I was put in charge of a room full of registered mail at Tangmere, as a supernumerary’. Aries eventually returned to flying and became an instructor. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.45) and at the end of the war he was at the Empire Central Flying School. Released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant, Aries was commissioned in the AAF in April 1947, as a Flying Officer serving with 604 Squadron on flying duties. He died in 1976.

APO 1.4.39 PO 23.10.39 FO 23.10.40 FL 23.10.41

STANLEY JOHN ARNFIELD 46253 Sgt Pilot British 610 Squadron Arnfield, born on October 3 1913, went to the Royal Masonic School, Bushey. He joined the RAF as an Aircraft Apprentice (564115) in January 1930. He passed out in December 1932, as a Fitter, Aero Engines. He signed on for twelve years on October 3 1931, his eighteenth birthday.

PO 2.6.40 FO 2.6.41 FL 2.6.42 FO (AAF) 1.4.47

DENNIS LOCKHART ARMITAGE PO

Pilot British

Arnfield later trained as a pilot. He joined 610 Squadron on September 24 1939 and was detached to Farnborough on March 20 1940 for an oxygen course. He shared in the destruction of an enemy aircraft with Flight Lieutenant John Ellis on June 12 1940, when they shot it down into the sea off Margate. On August 15 he damaged a Bf 109, on the 16th damaged another and claimed two Bf 109s destroyed on the 18th. On the 24th he baled out of Spitfire R 6686, after an attack by a Bf 109 off Ramsgate. He broke an ankle on landing and was admitted to Victoria Hospital, Deal. His stricken aircraft crashed in flames at Hammill, near Eastry. Arnfield was commissioned in July 1941. He later served with Bomber Command and was with 166 Squadron from September 1943, flying Lancasters from Kirmington. He was awarded the DFC (30.6.44), as a Flight Lieutenant with 166. He retired from the RAF on February 12 1951 as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. His post-war service was in the Secretarial Branch. Arnfield died of a heart attack on September 24 1954.

266 Squadron

Armitage learned to fly at the Lancashire Aero Club, gaining his ‘A’ licence. He joined the RAFVR at Hythe in December 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741076). Having reached the required standard, he was given the chance to train continuously with the regular RAF for six months, from July 15 1939. He accepted and went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton. At the end of the course, he was granted a commission and he joined 266 Squadron at Sutton Bridge on December 10 1939. Armitage was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on August 3 1940, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. On the 12th he probably destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged another and on the 15th, during the interception of an enemy formation off Folkestone, he shared in probably destroying another Ju 88; a cannon shell fired from below exploded between the cockpit and tail unit of Armitage’s aircraft, causing considerable damage, including to the rudder controls. Despite this, Armitage was able to return to Manston. Armitage was posted from 266 in May 1941 and was awarded the DFC (18.7.41) for service with the squadron. He was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader and took command of 129 Squadron on June 20 1941, forming with Spitfires at Leconfield. On September 21, on a Wing-escort for bombers attacking targets in France, he was shot down. He baled out and was captured (PoW No 3800). Armitage was released from the RAF in late 1945, as a Squadron Leader. He died on March 5 2004 and was privately cremated, after a funeral service at East Meon Church, Hampshire. PO 10.12.39 FO 4.11.40

54 and 74 Squadrons

With training completed he was posted to RAF Ringway, as a staff pilot. He went from there to 4 Ferry Pilot Pool on June11 1940. He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 3, converted to Spitfires and joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on the 23rd. Armstrong joined 74 Squadron at Biggin Hill on October 28 and on November 14 he was shot down off Dover after destroying two Ju 87s, whether by a Bf 109 or anti-aircraft fire is not known. He baled out and his aircraft, Spitfire P 7836, crashed on Dover Road, Sandwich. On February 5 1941 Armstrong shared in destroying a Do 17, with three other pilots, and on May 8 he destroyed a Bf 109. Armstrong died aged 21, on February 18 1943, as a Flight Lieutenant with the Ferry Pilots’ Pool at Gibraltar. He is buried in Dely Ibrahim War Cemetery, Algeria.

Aries joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741835), on July 23 1938. He was called up on September 1 1939. With his training completed, he was commissioned and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 10 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 263 Squadron at Drem on June 23, where it was reforming after losing most of its pilots when the carrier HMS Glorious was sunk, returning from Norway.

76573

Pilot British

Armstrong, who came from Darlington, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began flying, as a pupil pilot, on January 23 1939.

ELLIS WALTER ARIES PO

242 Squadron

236 Squadron

Archer enlisted before the war in 603 Squadron, AAF, as an Aircraft hand. Called up on August 24 1939, he later re-mustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. With his training completed, he joined 236 Squadron on July 19 1940.

79555

Pilot British

Armitage joined the RAFVR in August 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1 1939 and with training completed, he joined 7 B&GS, Stormy Down, as a staff pilot.

SAMUEL ARCHER 803473

Sgt

PO 26.7.41 FO 26.7.42 FL 26.7.43 FL 1.9.45

CHARLES IAN ROSE ARTHUR 41241

FO

Pilot Canadian

141 Squadron

Arthur was born in Fort Garry, Manitoba. He left for England in the Athenia on August 13 1938, to take up a short service commission in the RAF. He began his ab initio course at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham on August 29 and after a two week induction course at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, he went to 8 FTS, Montrose on November 12. With the course completed, Arthur went to 3 AOS, Aldergrove on June 25

FL 19.9.41

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at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge. Ash transferred to the General Duties Branch on October 30 1939, having volunteered for aircrew duties. He completed his gunnery training and was posted to 149 Squadron at Mildenhall, as Gunnery Leader. He requested a transfer to Defiants and visited the Central Gunnery School on June 19, in search of information on Boulton and Paul gun turrets. He joined 264 Squadron at Duxford next day. On the morning of August 28 1940 Ash was airborne in Defiant L 7021 with his pilot, Squadron Leader G D Garvin. They got into combat with Bf 109s and both baled out, when the aircraft was shot down, afterwards crashing in flames at Luddenham Marsh, Faversham. Garvin landed with minor injuries but Ash was dead on landing, from bullet wounds, probably machine-gunned as he floated down. He was 31 years old and is buried in the Western Cemetery, St Andrews, Fife.

1939, as a staff pilot. He joined 141 Squadron on October 10, then reforming at Turnhouse. In April 1940 the squadron received its first Defiants, as a day-fighter unit. On July 12 it flew south to Biggin Hill and on the 19th, in a disastrous action off Dover, lost six aircraft with most of their crews. 141 was withdrawn and shortly afterwards it returned to Scotland to begin training for night operations. On October 21 1940 Arthur was admitted to hospital with eye trouble. On October 25 he was sent to Gatwick, to join a 141 Squadron detachment, which was operating from there at night. Whilst there, he flew no operational sorties. Arthur was with the squadron until May 23 1941, when he was posted away to join 145 Squadron at Tangmere, as a Flight Commander. He destroyed a Bf 109 on June 25 and shared

PO 6.1.33 FO 6.1.34 FL 14.4.39

another on the 30th. With his tour completed, Arthur went to CFS, Upavon on October 18 1941, for an instructor’s course. He instructed at 5 (P) AFU, Ternhill from December 1941 to June 1942, when he moved to 7(P) AFU, Peterborough. Arthur returned to operations on November 2 1942, with a posting to 411(RCAF) Squadron at Digby, as a supernumerary Flight Lieutenant. He moved to 122 Squadron at Hornchurch on January 6 1943 but the stay was a short one and he joined 81 Squadron at Tingley in North Africa on March 1. Eight days later Arthur rejoined 242 Squadron, then at Souk-el-Khemis, as a Flight Commander. On June 1 1943 he took command of 232 Squadron at Protville, Tunisia. Four days later it was posted to Ta Kali, Malta. On June 29 Arthur shared in the destruction of a Bf 109. On July 17 he damaged a Bf 109 off Sicily and on August 12 he damaged a Mc 202. Arthur commanded 232 until December 25 1943. After a rest, on attachment to RAF Aleppo, Syria, Arthur was given command of 72 Squadron at Lago, Italy on April 12 1944. He destroyed a Bf 109 on May 7 and shared another on the 16th. He was awarded the DFC (9.6.44). He took the squadron to Sisteron, France on August 25 1944, to cover the landings in Southern France. 72 returned to Italy on October 2 and Arthur shared in the destruction of a Me 410 on the14th. He was promoted to Acting Wing Commander on November 21 and posted to command 5 Refresher Flying Unit at Perugia. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (29.12.44). On July 9 1945 Arthur was appointed Wing Leader 239 Mustang Wing at Lavariano. He returned to the UK and took command of 19 Squadron at Molesworth on April 26 1946, holding the command until August 5 1948. Arthur left the RAF on November 3 1954 as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. He returned to Canada to live.

ALFRED EDWARD ASHCROFT 112736

Pilot British

GLYNN ASHFIELD 36225

248 Squadron

ROBERT CLIFFORD VACY ASH British

Pilot British

FIU

Ashfield was then posted to 23 Squadron at Kenley, as an LAC. On July 30 1932 he was posted to 28 Squadron, which he joined at Ambala, India on October 25 1932. Whilst with the squadron in India Ashfield applied for pilot training. He was selected and posted away for training on March 6 1934. He began his flying at 4 FTS, Abu Sueir, Egypt on April 1 1934, as an Acting Sergeant. After completing the course on January 6 1935, he joined 30 Squadron in Iraq, as a Sergeant-Pilot. Ashfield returned to the UK in August 1937 and joined 79 Squadron at Biggin Hill on the 22nd, as a Flight Sergeant. He was granted a Permanent Commission on September 27 1939 and was posted to 14 FTS, Kinloss, as an instructor. Ashfield joined the Fighter Interception Unit at Tangmere on April 7 1940. At night on July 23 he was captain of an AI-equipped Blenheim, which shot down a Do 17 of 2/KG 3 off the Sussex coast. The other crew were Sergeant R H Leyland, radar operator, and Pilot Officer G E Morris, observer. It was the FIU’s first successful interception, leading to the destruction of an enemy aircraft at night. Ashfield was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on September 8 1940. He escaped unhurt when he made a forced-landing in Beaufighter R 2059 at Tangmere one night in September, after his cockpit roof flew off during a patrol, and he collided with an unlit truck on landing. For his work at FIU, Ashfield received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.41) and was awarded the AFC (17.3.41). During the night of June 25/26 1941 he destroyed a He 111. Ashfield was posted away to 157 Squadron at Castle Camps on February 22 1942, to be senior Flight Commander. The squadron was recently-reformed and was not yet fully equipped with Mosquitos. It became operational on April 27 1942. On the night of May 29/30 1942 Ashfield probably destroyed a Do 217 S of Dover, on July 27/28 he probably destroyed another and on October 19 he damaged a Ju 88 by day. He was awarded the DFC (4.12.42). Ashfield was killed on December 12 1942, with his radar operator, Pilot Officer D D Beale, when their Mosquito struck a tree during an Army co-operation exercise. He was 30 and he is buried in St Peter’s churchyard, Limpsfield, Surrey.

APO 13.5.39 PO 6.11.39

Air Gunner

FO

Ashfield, from Oxted, Surrey, joined the RAF in September 1928, as an Aircraft Apprentice (562411). He was at RAF Halton from September 5 to 26, at Flowerdown from September 27 1928 to August 1 1929 and at the Electrical and Wireless School, Cranwell from August 2 1929 to July 31 1931.

He began his elementary flying training on March 13 1939, as a pupil pilot. With his training completed, Arthur joined 248 Squadron on October 30 1939, at Hendon, where it was reforming. Arthur was attached to 92 Squadron on January 10 1940, to convert to Blenheims. A Coastal Command squadron, 248 was seconded to Fighter Command for part of the Battle of Britain. Arthur was lost on August 27 1940, when his Blenheim failed to return from a reconnaissance flight to the South Norwegian coast. The aircraft is known to have crashed into the sea. The body of the gunner, Sergeant R C R Cox, was washed up on the Swedish coast. The bodies of Arthur and his observer, Sergeant A E Ringwood, were never found. Their names are on the Runnymede Memorial, Panels 7 and 22 respectively. Arthur was 22 years old.

FL

141 Squadron

PO 26.11.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 26 11.43

Arthur, of Radyr, Glamorgan, joined the RAF on a short service commission.

31023

British

With training completed, he joined 141 Squadron in July 1940 and served with it in the Battle of Britain. When 141 got Beaufighters, he retrained as a Radio Observer. Early on May 7 1941, Ashcroft was flying with Squadron Leader E C Wolfe. They shot down a Ju 88 near Lennoxtown, Stirlingshire. When Wolfe took command of 456 (RAAF) Squadron in March 1942, he took Ashcroft with him. In the early hours of July 30 1942 they shot down a He 111. Ashcroft, who had been commissioned in November 1941, was with 29 Squadron in 1943. He was awarded the DFC (22.2.44). In the second half of 1944 Ashcroft was flying with 157 Squadron from Swannington, intruding over German night-fighter airfields. On October 6 he failed to return from a sortie. Ashcroft was 24 at the time of his death. He is buried in Brussels Town Cemetery, Belgium.

CHARLES JOHN ARTHUR PO

Air Gunner

Ashcroft, from Cobham, Surrey, joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745591). Called up on September 1, he re-mustered to Airman u/t Air Gunner.

APO 29.10.38 PO 29.8.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.42 SL 1.7.44

42090

Sgt

264 Squadron

Ash was granted a permanent commission in the Stores Branch of the RAF in January 1933 and in August went to Cranwell on Supply duties. On September 1 1934 he went overseas to the Aircraft Depot, Hinaidi, Iraq, moving to the Central Supplies Depot there on May 23 1936. In December 1938 Ash was serving at the Supplies Depot, Habbaniya but was back in England in 1939. He was posted on May 1 to the Equipment Branch, 24 (Training) Group

PO 27.9.39 FO 28.9.40 FL 27.9.41

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DENNIS GARTH ASHTON 76574

PO

Pilot British

posted on August 10 1940 to No 1 (Coastal) OTU, Silloth, from where he joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on September 23. He was a member of a Blenheim crew returning from an attack on two armed enemy merchant vessels on November 23. During the action the pilot, PO J T Davison, had been wounded and the aircraft sufficiently damaged to make necessary a crash-landing at base. Unbeknown to Davison, a bomb had remained on the rack and this exploded on impact of the landing, severely injuring Aslett and setting fire to the aircraft. Davison and his observer, Sergeant Brazier, jumped clear but on realising that Aslett was still in the blazing aircraft, they went back, regardless of their own safety, and dragged him out. They were both badly burned whilst doing so and their gallantry was recognised in March 1941, Davison being awarded the GM and Brazier the BEM. Aslett spent some time in Ely Hospital, eventually returning to Bircham Newton, where he was put on instruction duties. He later joined 279 (Air Sea Rescue) Squadron, was commissioned in December 1943 and, on finishing his tour in early February 1944, he was posted to No 1(Coastal) OTU at Turnberry, as an instructor. Later in the year Aslett went to 111 OTU, Nassau, Bahamas for Liberator crewing. He joined 224 Squadron on his return to Britain on January 9 1945 and remained with the squadron until the end of the year. Aslett was released in February 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant.

266 Squadron

Ashton joined the RAFVR in June 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741657). He was later given the opportunity of having six months continuous flying training with the regular RAF. Ashton accepted and went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on July 15 1939. At the outbreak of war he was retained for the duration and went on to complete the course there. He was commissioned on December 12 1939 and he joined 266 Squadron at Sutton Bridge on the 16th from 2 FTS. On July 18 Ashton, in Spitfire N 3170, collided with a stationary tractor at base but was unhurt. He lost two months’ seniority for this incident, gazetted after his death. In combat with enemy aircraft off Portsmouth on August 12, Ashton was reported ‘Missing’ when his aircraft, Spitfire P 9333, was shot down in flames. His body was recovered in September by the mine sweeper HMS Cedar and buried at sea. Ashton, who came from Keyworth, Nottinghamshire, was 20 years old. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial Panel 7. PO 10.12.39

PO 20.12.43 FO 20.6.44 FL 20.12.45

DENNIS KENNETH ASHTON 741212

Sgt

Pilot British

32 Squadron

DONALD JAMES ASLIN 102097

Ashton, of Carlton, Nottinghamshire, joined the RAFVR in January 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. In September 1939 the FAA was short of pilots and after Ashton was called up, he was posted to Donibristle and joined the Torpedo-Spotter-Reconnaissance Flight.

Air Gunner

British

PO 18.7.41 FO 18.7.42 FL 18.7.43 FO (RAFVR) 27.2.48

WILLIAM RADCLYFFE ASSHETON 41979

29 Squadron

PO 13.9.42 FO 13.3.43 FL 13.9.44

ARTHUR THOMAS RAYNER ASLETT Wop/AG

British

Pilot British

222 Squadron

Assheton went on to 14 FTS, Kinloss in mid-May, on No 1 Course, and after completing his intermediate and advanced training there on November 6, he joined 236 Squadron at Stradishall on the 8th. He was posted to 222 Squadron at Duxford on the 22nd of the month. The squadron was then equipped with Blenheims and began to receive its first Spitfires in March 1940. The squadron moved to Hornchurch in late May. On July 25 Assheton shared in the destruction of a He 111. On August 30 he crash-landed at Bekesbourne Aerodrome, in Spitfire R 6720, after combat over Canterbury. On September 11 he made a forced-landing on Parsonage Farm, Fletching, in Spitfire R 6638, after an action over the Maidstone area. On September 4 he probably destroyed two Bf 109s. Assheton’s third escape came on September 20 when he baled out with slight burns, after being shot down in a surprise attack by Bf 109s over the Thames Estuary. He landed at Latchington and was admitted to St Peter’s Hospital, Maldon. His aircraft, Spitfire K 9993, crashed and burned out at Linkhouse Farm, West Hanningfield. After returning to the squadron, Assheton’s next operational sortie was not until November 17. He was posted from 222 Squadron on December 13 1940 and joined 611 Squadron at Ternhill. On the 29th he was sent to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course. Assheton was awarded the DFC (10.4.45) for service with 540 Squadron, a Mosquito photographic-reconnaissance unit. He remained in the RAF after the war, graduated from the RAF Staff College and retired on November 22 1957 as a Squadron Leader.

By June 1 Ashworth had been promoted to Sergeant. He was still with 29 Squadron on December 8 1940. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in September 1942, Ashworth was released in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant.

Sgt

PO

Born on December 12 1917, Assheton joined the RAF with a short service commission. He began his elementary flying training on March 6 1939, as a pupil pilot. After being accepted as suitable, he was commissioned at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on April 29.

Ashworth joined the RAF, as an Aircraft hand (616585), in July 1938 and later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. He was posted to 29 Squadron at Digby, as an Aircraftsman, in early April 1940.

170758

32 and 257 Squadrons

He then went to 7 OTU, Hawarden and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on July 29 and on August 22 he damaged a Do 17. Aslin moved to 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on September 22. The following morning he was shot down during a patrol over the Thames Estuary and baled out, suffering from burns. Initially he was treated at Sick Quarters at RAF Detling, before being taken to Minster Hospital. His aircraft, Hurricane P 2960, crashed at Grove, near Eastchurch. Aslin was later moved to the Queen Victoria Hospital at East Grinstead, where he underwent plastic surgery by Archie McIndoe and became a Guinea Pig in the process. Commissioned in July 1941, Aslin was released in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. In February 1948 he was commissioned in the RAFVR. Aslin died on July 3 1988.

JACK ASHWORTH Sgt

Pilot British

Aslin joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745171). He was called up on September 1 1939 and carried out his intermediate and advanced training at 5 FTS, Sealand, on No 46 Course, from February 1 to June 26 1940.

He was later posted to 770 Squadron for deck-landing training on HMS Argus, in the Western Mediterranean. He was offered a transfer to the FAA but declined and was posted to 3 B&GS, Aldergrove, as a staff pilot. On May 4 1940 Ashton was recalled to the FAA and joined 759 (T) Squadron at Eastleigh for a refresher deck-landing course. By May 23 he had joined 804 Squadron at Hatston. By early June the RAF was short of pilots and Ashton was recalled and sent to 7 OTU, Hawarden on June 11. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on July 1 1940 and flew his first operational sortie on the 13th. Within two weeks Ashton was posted to RAF Uxbridge and became one of a group of nine sergeants and one officer. They went to Hullavington, picked up Hurricanes, flew them to Abbotsinch and were embarked on the carrier HMS Argus. They were joined by four more officers, told their destination was Malta and that they were now 418 Flight. The Argus sailed on July 23, arrived at Gibraltar and sailed for Malta on the 31st. At dawn on August 2 the pilots flew their Hurricanes off to Luqa. 418 Flight and the Malta Fighter Flight were amalgamated into 261Squadron on August 16 1940. Ashton was flying one of two Hurricanes which intercepted three Fiat CR 42s on November 26 1940. He shot one down and was then shot down himself into the sea by one of the others and killed. He was 26 years old. He is buried in Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Malta.

49946

Sgt

235 Squadron

Born in 1920, Aslett began work as an apprentice printer with a Kent newspaper in 1934. In early 1939 he joined the Aircraft Crew Section of the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (755648) at Rochester. Called up on September 5 1939, he completed his basic training and went to Air Service Training Ltd, Hamble for initial wireless theory and operation. This was followed by advanced wireless work and flying experience at Cranwell. After a three week course at 9 Bombing and Gunnery School, Penrhos, Aslett was

APO 29.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41 SL 1.7.45 SL 1.8.47

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FREDERICK PETER JOHN ATKINS

GORDON BARRY ATKINSON

903401

42091

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

141 Squadron

PO

Atkins joined the RAFVR at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge in September 1939 for the duration of hostilities. He volunteered for aircrew duties and trained as an Air Gunner.

On November 3 1940 he returned to Sumburgh, with a damaged oil cooler caused by return fire from a He 111, attacked over the North Sea. He and his crew were unhurt. In 1943 Atkinson was with 603 Squadron in the Mediterranean, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. Normally a fighter squadron, 603 was then operating as a Coastal Strike Unit, with Beaufighters. Atkinson was awarded the DFC (14.12.43), the citation stating that he had flown a large number of sorties, including many attacks on shipping. He remained in the RAF after the war, graduated from Staff College, was made an MBE (1.1.63) and retired on March 18 1976 as a Wing Commander.

ALLAN ARTHUR ATKINSON PO

Air Gunner

British

23 Squadron

Atkinson joined the RAFVR in April 1940 for the duration of hostilities, with a commission as a direct-entry Air Gunner. He was at 7 B&GS from May 6 to June 1 1940, on No 12 Air Gunner Course.

HAROLD DERRICK ATKINSON

He then joined 23 Squadron at Wittering later in June. In the early hours of the 29th he probably destroyed a He 111 SE of Norwich, flying in a Blenheim captained by Pilot Officer D A Willans. On October 30, operating from Ford, he was a member of the crew of Blenheim L 6721 on a routine night patrol. The aircraft crashed at Orchard Way Road, South Bersted after R/T failure in deteriorating weather conditions, searching for base. Atkinson, Flying Officer H J Woodward, pilot, and AC 2 H T Perry, radar operator, were all killed. Atkinson was 32. He is buried in St Mary’s churchyard, Clymping.

33418

Pilot British

151 Squadron

Born in Blyth, Northumberland on June 16 1915, Atkinson was educated at Blyth Secondary School and joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice (565476), on September 2 1931. He signed for a twelve-year engagement on June 16 1933, his eighteenth birthday. He trained as a Metal Rigger at No 1 S of TT, Halton, passed out on August 16 1934 and was posted to the staff at the RAF College, Cranwell. Atkinson was posted to No 4 Aircraft Park, Atbara, Sudan on September 4 1935 and joined 47 Squadron at Khartoum on August 13 1936. Whilst there, he applied for pilot training. He was selected and returned to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on July 13 1937. Atkinson did his elementary training at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley from September 26 to November 29 1937, after which he went back to Uxbridge and moved to 3 FTS, South Cerney on December 11. After passing out on July 7 1938 Atkinson was posted to No 1 AAS, Eastchurch, as a staff pilot. He joined 151 Squadron at North Weald on September 3 1939. On May 17 1940 the squadron went to France and on this day Atkinson shared in probably destroying a Ju 87. On the 18th he probably destroyed a He 111 and damaged another, on the 21st he shot down a Hs 126 and on the 22nd he shot down another Ju 87. On July 29 Atkinson damaged a Bf 110 and on August 14, flying in Hurricane P 3310, Atkinson was shot down into the sea off Margate during a combat with Bf 109s. He baled out, was picked up by a boat and then transferred to the Margate lifeboat. Taken to a hospital near Maidstone with shock, Atkinson returned to North Weald after three weeks, to find 151 was at Digby. The ground crews were still at North Weald, salvaging Hurricanes, and Atkinson spent two weeks collecting spares in a Magister and flying the almost-serviceable aircraft to Henlow. He was not declared fit for flying duties officially until September 24. He was awarded the DFM (7.3.41) and stayed with 151 until October 31 1941, when he went to 60 OTU, East Fortune, as an instructor. He was commissioned in November 1941 and joined 96 Squadron at Wrexham on March 26 1942, rejoining 151 Squadron at Wittering on April 15. He went to Canada in September 1943, again as an instructor. From October 15 1943 until June 30 1944 Atkinson was at 36 OTU, Greenwood, Nova Scotia. He moved to 8 OTU, also at Greenwood, on July 1 and was there until returning to the UK on December 31 1944. Atkinson was posted in mid-January 1945 to 54 OTU, Charter Hall, where he was killed in a flying accident in a Mosquito on March 1. He is buried in Blyth Cemetery. PO 24.11.41

Pilot British

213 Squadron

Atkinson joined 213 Squadron at Wittering on August 14 1939. He went with ‘B’ Flight to Merville, France on May 17 1940. The pilots flew their Hurricanes across the Channel and the ground crews flew over in an Ensign and a Bombay. The flight was attached to 79 Squadron at Merville and operated from there. On May 18 Atkinson destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged a Do 17, on the 19th he shared in the destruction of two Hs 126s and damaged a Do 17 and a He 111 and on the 20th he probably destroyed a Bf 110 and shared in destroying a Do 17 and a Hs 126. The stay in France was short, with 213 returning to England on the 21st, ‘A’ Flight going to Manston and ‘B’ Flight to Wittering. The squadron took part in the operations covering the evacuation from Dunkirk. On May 27 and 28 Atkinson shot down two Bf 109s and on the 29th he claimed a probable He 111 and shared in damaging a Ju 88. For his successes during May, Atkinson was awarded the DFC (25.6.40). 213 Squadron was based at Exeter in August 1940 and over a period of seven days Atkinson claimed the destruction of six enemy aircraft, on the 12th two Bf 110s, on the 13th a Bf 110 and on the 14th a He 111. In this last action he returned to Exeter, in Hurricane R 4099, damaged by return fire from a He 111 engaged over Lyme Bay. He was slightly wounded by shell splinters in the arm. On the 16th he claimed a Bf 109 and another two days later. He failed to return from a combat over Warmwell on August 25. His aircraft, Hurricane P 3200, is believed to have crashed into the sea and Atkinson’s body was recovered. He is buried in Market Weighton Cemetery, Yorkshire.

GEORGE ATKINSON Sgt

PO

Born at Wintringham, Yorkshire on August 19 1918, Atkinson was educated at Aysgarth Preparatory School, Yorkshire and then Shrewsbury School from 1932 to 1937, where he was a member of the First XI. He entered RAF College, Cranwell, as a Flight Cadet, in September 1937 and graduated on July 29 1939, with a Permanent Commission.

APO 12.4.40 PO 1.6.40

47413

248 Squadron

Born on July 7 1921, Atkinson entered the RAF as a candidate for a short service commission and began training as a pupil pilot on December 28 1938. With training completed, he joined 248 Squadron at Hendon on October 30 1939.

He was with 141 Squadron at Turnhouse in July 1940. He went south with the squadron to West Malling on July 12. Atkins was in one of the nine Defiants attacked by Bf 109s of III/JG 51 off Dover on July 19. His aircraft, Defiant L 7015, was shot down into the Channel. The pilot, Pilot Officer R Kidson, was never found but Atkins’ body was washed up on the French coast. He was 26 years old and is buried in Boulogne Eastern Cemetery, France.

78740

Pilot British

PO 29.7.39

MATTHEW RICHARD ATKINSON 39364

FL

Pilot British

3 Squadron

Atkinson, of Gosforth, Northumberland, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training as a pupil pilot on November 16 1936. He was posted to 11 FTS, Wittering on February 6 1937 and after completing his training, he joined 52 Squadron at Upwood, on September 4 1937. At that time 52 was using Audax and Hart light bombers and was re-equipped with Battles in 1939. On March 18 1939 Atkinson was detached to RAF Manston for a short navigation course. The squadron began acting as a training unit on April 1 1939. Atkinson was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on August 29 1939 and appointed Flight Commander of the newly-formed ‘C’ Flight. On April 8, 1940 52 and 63 Squadrons were amalgamated to form 12 OTU, remaining on their common base at Benson, Oxfordshire. Atkinson continued to serve as an instructor with 12 OTU until August 5 1940, when he relinquished his acting rank on being posted to 12 Squadron at Binbrook. He flew night operations against targets in France. After the start of the Battle of Britain on July 10 1940, Atkinson had volunteered for Fighter Command and he flew his last sortie with 12 Squadron on September 17, a night attack on barges in Boulogne Harbour, before leaving to join 43 Squadron at Usworth on the 20th. He was posted away from 43 on December 17 1940 to the Air Ministry on the Special Duties List. Atkinson was lost with his crew on June 26 1942, with 1481 Flight, Bomber Command, as a Squadron Leader. He was taking part in the “1000 Bomber” attack on

FO 1.10.42 FL 24.11.43

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Bremen. With no known grave, he is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 65. Atkinson was 26.

September 9 Austin was appointed temporary ‘B’ Flight Commander when Flight Lieutenant N W Burnett was hospitalised. He led the flight on sorties until October 30, when Burnett resumed flying duties. Austin was posted away from 46 on December 13 1940 to 8 FTS, Montrose, as an instructor. On March 17 1941 Austin was killed in a training accident off the Isle of Man, serving as a Flight Lieutenant at 5 B&GS, Manby. He is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Clevedon, Somerset.

APO 25.1.37 PO 16.11.37 FO 16.6.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

RONALD ATKINSON 79530

PO

Pilot British

242, 600, 111 and 213 Squadrons

Atkinson, from Gillingham, Kent, joined the RAFVR in February 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742854). He was called up on September 1 1939 and did his training at 5 FTS, Sealand, on No 44 Course, which ended on May 20 1940. Atkinson was commissioned on the 19th and he joined 242 Squadron at Biggin Hill on the 26th.

APO 3.5.37 PO 1.3.38 FO 1.11.39

SYDNEY AUSTIN 101002

ALBERT LAWRENCE AUSTIN Radar Operator

British

604 Squadron

Austin enlisted in the RAFVR at No 1 Depot, Uxbridge in March 1940 for the duration of hostilities. He was with 604 Squadron at the start of the Battle of Britain, having had some radar training.

Air Gunner

British 29

219 Squadron

DAVID HART AYERS 740696

Sgt

Pilot British

600 and 74 Squadrons

Ayers, from Herne Bay, Kent, was educated at Kent College, Canterbury from 1926 to 1931. He joined the RAFVR in July 1937 as an Airman u/t Pilot and was called up on September 1 1939, already a trained pilot. Ayers joined 600 Squadron from 11 Group Pool, St Athan on September 16. He was still with the squadron in July 1940 and made his last flight with it on the 29th of the month.

ANTHONY THOMAS AUSTIN Sgt

British

PO 14.7.41

On August 25 he was flying as a member of the crew of Blenheim L 6782, when the aircraft crashed near Witheredge, Exeter, whilst on an operational sortie. The cause of the crash is unknown. Sergeants J G B Fletcher, air gunner, and C Haigh, pilot, were both killed and Austin died the next day. Austin was 25 and is buried in Northwood Cemetery, Middlesex.

129122

Air Gunner

After completing No 11 Air Gunner course at 5 B&GS, Manby, from May 20 to June 15 1940, he joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on August 8. Austin was crewed with Sergeant H F Grubb. They had two lucky escapes in landing mishaps. On August 26 1940 their Blenheim undershot the runway at Catterick, landing in a sudden rainstorm at night. When landing at Redhill on October 16, they overshot the runway and hit the boundary fence. On November 22 1940 Austin was probably with Grubb, when he destroyed an enemy aircraft at night off Beachy Head. Austin retrained as a Radio Observer and in the evening of February 17 1941 he was flying with Squadron Leader J H Little in a Beaufighter. They shot down a Do 17, which crashed at Oakley Court, Bray. Austin was awarded the DFM (30.5.41), for assisting in the destruction of three enemy aircraft at night. Commissioned in July 1941, Austin joined 85 Squadron at Hunsdon. He was killed on October 30 1941, as a Flying Officer. With no known grave, Austin is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 29.

PO 19.5.40

LAC

Sgt

Austin joined the RAFVR at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge in September 1939 (903071) for the duration of hostilities.

He was with 242 when it went to Chateaudun on June 8, to cover the rearguard actions being fought by the Army on its retreat to the Atlantic coast. The squadron withdrew on the 16th, to Coltishall. Atkinson was posted to 600 Squadron at Manston on August 10 1940 but on the 24th he moved to 111 Squadron at Debden. On August 31 he damaged a Bf 110. He went to Tangmere on September 19, to join 213 Squadron. He damaged a Do 17 on the 25th, claimed the destruction of a Bf 109 on the 30th and damaged another Do 17 on October 10. Atkinson was killed on October 17 1940, shot down by Bf 109s in Hurricane P 3174, which crashed at Weeks Farm, near Pluckley. He was 19 and is buried in Woodlands Cemetery, Gillingham.

917258

FL 1.11.40

Squadron

Austin joined 600 Squadron, AAF in early 1939 (800675), as an Aircraft hand. He was called up on August 24, volunteered for Air Gunner training and with that completed, he joined 29 Squadron at Digby on July 1 1940, from 5 B&GS, Jurby, as an AC 2.

On August 3 Ayers was posted to 5 OTU and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 74 Squadron at Wittering on August 17 1940. He made his first flight with the squadron on the 22nd. Whilst on a routine patrol on September 23, in Spitfire P 7362, Ayers baled out into the sea SE of Southwold. His body was recovered on October 4. He was 26. Ayers is buried in Ipswich Cemetery, Suffolk.

When he flew his first operational sortie on July 21, he had already been promoted to Sergeant. Austin was commissioned in May 1942 and was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1994. PO 20.5.42 FO 20.11.42 FL 20.5.44

CHARLES ALBERT HENRY AYLING 561455

Sgt

Pilot British

43 and 66 Sqdns, 421 Flight

FREDERICK AUSTIN 39627

FO

Pilot British

46 Squadron

Ayling joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice, in September 1927. He passed out in August 1930 and later trained as a pilot.

Austin joined the RAF on a short service commission. He began as a pupil pilot on March 1 1937. He completed his ab initio course and was commissioned at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on May 3.

He was with 43 Squadron in September 1939. On June 7 1940 he crash-landed his badly-damaged Hurricane at RouenBoos in France. Ayling got away from Garnay aerodrome on the 10th, in a Hurricane with a punctured wing-tank, and reached Tangmere. On July 12 1940 Ayling shared a He 111 and on August 8 he damaged two Bf 109s. He went to 66 Squadron at Kenley on September 10 and then moved to 421 Flight at Gravesend on October 8. Three days later, in Spitfire P 7303, he was killed when he crashed at Newchurch, after combat with enemy aircraft over Hawkinge. He was 28. Ayling is buried in St Nicholas’ Cemetery at Monkton, Pembrokeshire, close to his wife’s home.

On May 8 he was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney and after passing out from the advanced training section of the course, he joined 3 Squadron at Kenley on November 27 1937. Austin went to CFS, Upavon on August 7 1938 for a course, after which he was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton, as an instructor. He was on the HQ staff at RAF Martlesham Heath by mid-June 1940. On July 27 he was appointed Officer i/c Parachute Section there and he relinquished this post on August 14 and joined 46 Squadron at Digby the next day. On

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B CYRIL FREDERICK BABBAGE 89298 Sgt Pilot British 602 Squadron

in early April to Chittagong. On April 9 1943 Bachmann was killed in action, aged 25. He is buried in Chittagong War Cemetery.

Babbage was born in Ludlow, Shropshire on June 25 1917. He joined the RAFVR in October 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742134).

PO 6.11.39

FO 6.11.40

FL 23.9.41

CHARLES HARVEY BACON 74324 FO Pilot British 610 Squadron

Called up on September 1 1939, he finished his training and was with 602 Squadron at Drem by June 1940. On August 18 Babbage claimed a Ju 87 destroyed, on the 19th he shared a Ju 88 and on the 25th destroyed a Do 17 and a Bf 110. After probably destroying a Bf 109 on the 26th over Selsey Bill, Babbage was himself shot down by Hauptmann Mayer of 1/JG 53. He baled out, was picked up by the Bognor lifeboat and then admitted to Bognor Hospital. His aircraft, Spitfire X 4188, crashed into the sea. Back with the squadron, Babbage was in combat with Bf 110s over Selsey Bill on September 11. He shot one down and returned to Westhampnett, in Spitfire X 4269, with a damaged starboard wing. On the 15th Babbage damaged a Do 17, on the 26th he shot down a He 111 and on the 27th, after destroying a Ju 88 off Dungeness, he returned to Westhampnett, in Spitfire X 4160, after himself being damaged by Bf 109s. In another engagement on the 27th, Babbage claimed a Bf 109 as being probably destroyed. Over the Channel on October 12, Babbage shared in destroying a Ju 88. His Spitfire, X 4541, was damaged by return fire and he overturned when he made a forced-landing at Iford Farm, near Lewes. He was unhurt. Babbage was awarded the DFM (25.10.40) and commissioned in late November. In June 1941 he was posted to 41 Squadron at Merston, which began ‘Rhubarb’ operations over the Continent. On September 18 Babbage shot down an unidentified aircraft, now known to be an early model FW 190. Its pilot, German ace Hauptmann Walter Adolph, was killed. On October 14 1941 Babbage damaged a Bf 109. Later in the war Babbage did an operational tour on Mosquitos, during the course of which he was twice shot down. He remained in the RAF after the war and was a Qualified A1 Instructor, having completed the course at CFS. Babbage retired from the RAF on June 25 1964 with the rank of Wing Commander. He died in 1977.

A Demi (Half Fellow) of Magdalen College, Oxford, Bacon was born on January 15 1919. He joined the Oxford University Air Squadron and transferred to the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754287). He was called up on September 1. Commissioned on September 26 1939, Bacon was on No 6 Course at RAF College FTS, Cranwell from November 6 1939 to May 9 1940. Bacon arrived at 10 B&GS, Warmwell with the Advanced Training Squadron from Cranwell FTS on April 26. With the course completed, he joined 98 Squadron in France in early May 1940, flying Battles. It was withdrawn to England in early June. It re-assembled at Gatwick on the 15th and in July it was preparing for a move to Iceland for coastal patrol duties. When 98 departed on July 27, Bacon stayed at RAF Gatwick, as a supernumerary. He joined 4(C) Ferry Pilot Pool on August 1. Along with other pilots with Merlin engine experience, he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 3. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 610 Squadron at Acklington on the 16th. On the 30th Bacon was killed when his Spitfire crashed on Alnmouth beach. He is buried in an extension to St Mary’s churchyard, Windermere. PO 26.9.39 FO 26.9.40

DOUGLAS HIRAM BADDELEY 814205 Sgt Air Gunner British

25 Squadron

Baddeley, from Dalton, Huddersfield, enlisted before the war for four years in 616 Squadron, AAF, for ground duties. Called up on August 24 1939, he later volunteered for Air Gunner training and with a gunnery course completed he joined 25 Squadron at North Weald on October 4 1940. He was a Flight Sergeant, when he was killed on June 26 1942, at the age of 25.

PO 29.11.40 FO 29.11.41 FL 29.11.42 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.7.55

JACK HENRY BACHMANN 76568 PO Pilot British 145 Squadron

Baddeley is buried in Kiel War Cemetery, North Germany. His unit at the time of his death is not known.

Bachmann joined the RAFVR in July 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740687). Called up on September 1 1939, he was sent on No 13 Course at 10 FTS, Ternhill on the 9th. He completed the course and joined 98 Squadron at Hucknall on November 6, flying Battles.

DOUGLAS ROBERT STEUART BADER 26151 SL Pilot British 242 Squadron

On April 16 1940 Bachmann went with the squadron to France. He moved to 88 Squadron at Mourmelon on May 12 1940. The squadron was withdrawn to England in June, arriving at Driffield on the 14th. After volunteering for Fighter Command, Bachmann was posted to 145 Squadron at Drem on August 18 1940. He damaged a He 111 on November 13. In June 1942 Bachmann was given command of 67 Squadron, then reforming at Alipore, India, with Hurricane IIcs. In February 1943 the squadron went to the Akyab front, moving

Probably the most widely-known participant in the Battle of Britain, Bader was born in St John’s Wood, London on February 21 1910. His early years were spent in India, where his father was in the Civil Service. Bader returned to England, where he attended a preparatory school at Temple Grove, Eastbourne.

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Badger was posted away from 151 to RAF Hendon on May 16 1940 and he joined 87 Squadron in France soon afterwards. He destroyed a Bf 109 on the 19th. The squadron was withdrawn to England and arrived at Debden on May 24. On August 11 1940 Badger claimed the destruction of a Bf 109 and damaged another. He damaged a Ju 88 and a Bf 109 on the 25th. In early 1941 Flight Lieutenant D H Ward of 87, who had flown with Badger in the 151 aerobatic team, thought it would be good for 87 Squadron morale if it had such a team. Badger was co-opted as a member, with Ward and Pilot Officer R P Beamont. It was apparently of great benefit to the squadron. Badger was commissioned in May and on the 19th he shot down an Arado Ar 196 floatplane off the Scilly Isles. He was posted to the Middle East in November 1941 and joined 94 Squadron in the Western Desert in December. In March 1942 he went to 73 Squadron and on the 20th he took part in an attack on Derna airfield, during which several enemy aircraft and an illuminated flarepath were destroyed. Badger took part in other successful attacks on enemy airfields and on July 11 1942 he destroyed a Bf 109. When his operational tour ended, he was awarded the DFC (18.9.42). Badger returned to Britain and in July 1944 he transferred to the Technical Branch (Engineering). He remained in the RAF after the war and retired on August 12 1961 as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. He died in 1995.

He later won a scholarship to St Edward’s School, Oxford. In 1928 he won a prize cadetship to RAF College, Cranwell and began the course there in September. After passing out in July 1930, Bader was granted a Permanent Commission and on August 25 he was posted to 23 Squadron at Kenley. In 1931 he represented 23 in the Pairs Aerobatic flying competition at the Hendon Air Display, when the squadron won for the third year running. On December 14 1931 Bader crashed in a Bulldog, after attempting a roll at very low level. Miraculously, he was not killed but lost his legs, the right one above the knee and the left below. After being fitted with artificial limbs, Bader remained in the RAF but most unhappily because he was not allowed to fly. He was retired by the Air Ministry on April 30 1933. He got a job with the Asiatic Petroleum Company, which later became Shell. Following the outbreak of war, Bader became increasingly insistent about rejoining the RAF in a flying capacity. Finally, on October 18 1939, he went to CFS, Upavon for a flying test, which was conducted by Squadron Leader RHA Leigh (qv). Bader passed the test and was re-employed as a regular officer on November 26, as a Flying Officer, with seniority of January 26 1932. After a refresher course at Upavon, Bader joined 19 Squadron at Duxford on February 7 1940. On March 12 he was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant and he was posted to 222 Squadron on April 16, also based at Duxford, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. On June 1 Bader scored his first victory, when he shot down a Bf 109 near Dunkirk and shared in the probable destruction of a He 111. On June 24 1940 Bader was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader and given command of 242 Squadron at Coltishall, a unit made up mainly of Canadian pilots. Morale was low and discipline was lax when Bader set himself the task of bringing 242 back to a good operational standard. On July 11 Bader shot down a Do 17 into the sea off Cromer. He was granted a Permanent Commission on July 26. He shot down another Do 17 into the sea near Yarmouth on August 21 and claimed two Bf 110s destroyed on the 30th. Bader claimed two Bf 110s and a Bf 109 destroyed on September 7, a Do 17 shot down and two others damaged on the 9th, another Do 17 destroyed and two more damaged on the 15th, a Ju 88 and a Do 17 destroyed on the 18th and a Bf 109 shot down and probably a second on the 27th. After receiving a Mention in Despatches (1.1.41), Bader’s final victory with 242 was a shared Ju 88 on January 22 1941, shot down into the North Sea, E of Yarmouth. He was promoted to Acting Wing Commander and posted to Tangmere as Wing Commander Flying on March 18 1941. In June he began to add to his victories in sweeps over France, on June 21 a Bf 109, on the 26th a Bf 109 and another shared and on July 2 another Bf 109 and one damaged. Bader shared another Bf 109 and damaged a second on July 21 and damaged another on the 23rd. He led the Wing on August 9, to escort bombers to Bethune. From the start things went wrong and he found himself alone and involved with several Bf 109s. In the ensuing combat, S of Le Touquet, he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and probably a second before he was downed in still unproven circumstances. Bader baled out and was captured on landing, minus his right artificial leg. For the Germans he was a difficult prisoner and he eventually finished up in Colditz. He was released from there on April 4 1945. After rest and recuperation, Bader was posted to Tangmere, as a Group Captain, to command the Fighter Leaders’ School. Many things had changed since 1941 and it was not a successful appointment. After a short period, Bader was given command of the North Weald Sector, from where he organised and led the Battle of Britain flypast in September 1945. Bader retired on July 21 1946, retaining the rank of Group Captain. He had received the following orders and decorations, DSO (1.10.40), Bar to the DSO (15.7.41), DFC (7.1.41), Bar to the DFC (9.9.41), Legion d’Honneur, Croix de Guerre and three Mentions in Despatches. After retiring, Bader rejoined Shell. In 1952 he was made Managing Director of the Shell aircraft fleet, an appointment which necessitated a lot of overseas travel. Somehow, he always found time to encourage disabled people, particularly children and young people. For his public service, Bader was made a CBE in 1956 and knighted in 1976. He flew his own aeroplane for the last time on June 4 1979, when he made a local flight from White Waltham. On September 5 1982, after attending a dinner in honour of Marshal of the RAF Sir Arthur Harris, Bader died in the car as his wife drove him back to their Berkshire home. PO 26.7.30 WC 1.7.45

FO 26.1.32

Retired 30.4.33

IVOR JAMES BADGER 45975 F/Sgt Pilot British

FO 26.11.39

FL 24.9.40

PO 8.5.41 FO 10.3.42 FL 10.3.43 FL (T) (e) 1.9.45

JOHN VINCENT CLARENCE BADGER 33046 SL Pilot British 43 Squadron Born in Lambeth, London in 1912, Badger was educated at the Belfast Academical Institute. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice (562677), in September 1928. He passed out in August 1931 and was awarded a flight cadetship at RAF College, Cranwell. He entered in September 1931, as a Flight Cadet. He graduated in July 1933, winning the Sword of Honour and granted a Permanent Commission. He was posted to 43 Squadron on the 15th. At this time the RAF was supplying pilots for the Fleet Air Arm and on October 3 1934 Badger went to the School of Naval Co-operation, Lee-on-Solent. He joined 821 (Fleet Spotter-Reconnaissance) Squadron on May 4 1935, shorebased at Eastleigh and at sea on the aircraft carrier HMS Courageous. Badger was posted to the Marine Aircraft Establishment at Felixstowe on October 25 1937. On July 24 1939 Badger was posted to the Air Staff 13 Group, which had just been formed, as Squadron Leader Intelligence. On January 5 1940 he went to 11 Group Pool, St Athan, for a flying refresher course. He was posted from there to France on the 13th. Badger arrived at Achicourt on the 18th, to take up duties as Squadron Leader Orginisation at HQ 14 Group. On June 21 1940 he went to 43 Squadron at Tangmere, as a supernumerary Squadron Leader, to gain operational and administrative experience. On July 9 the CO, Squadron Leader C G Lott, was shot down and badly wounded and Badger assumed command of 43. On the 12th he shared a He 111 and on August 8 Badger got a probable Bf 109, on the 13th damaged two Ju 88s, on the 14th and 15th destroyed two others, on the 16th shot down three Ju 87s and on the 26th destroyed a He 111 and shared a second. Badger was shot down by Bf 109s on August 30. He baled out but was grievously wounded when he landed in trees. His Hurricane, V 6458, crashed S of Woodchurch. He was taken to Ashford Hospital. He was posted to RAF Tangmere as non-effective sick. Badger was later moved to the RAF Hospital at Halton and he died there as a result of his injuries on June 30 1941. He is buried in the churchyard of St Michael and All Angels, Halton, Buckinghamshire. Badger was 28. He was awarded the DFC (6.9.40) and also received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.41).

SL 18.6.41 PO 15.7.33 FO 15.1.35 FL 15.1.37 SL 1.4.39

COLIN CYRIL BAILEY 102088 AC 2 Radar Operator

87 Squadron

Born on September 12 1912, Badger went to Shaftesbury Grammar School. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice in September 1929 (563629), and passed out in August 1932 as a Fitter, Aero Engines. He signed on for a twelve-year term on his 18th birthday, September 12 1930.

British

23 Squadron

Bailey joined the RAFVR at No 2 RAF Depot, Cardington in January 1940 for the duration of hostilities, as an Aircraft hand (947374). He later took a radar course and joined 23 Squadron at Wittering on July 23 1940. He later trained as a Radio Observer and was promoted to Sergeant after the Battle of Britain. Commissioned in July 1941, Bailey was awarded the DFC (30.11.43), as a Flight Lieutenant with 219 Squadron.

In the mid-thirties he applied for pilot training and in 1938 he was a Sergeant-Pilot in 151 Squadron at North Weald and a member of the squadron’s aerobatic team.

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JAMES RICHARD ABE BAILEY 74325 FO Pilot British 264 and 85 Squadrons

He was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 13.7.41 FO 14.7.42 FL 14.7.43

GEORGE JOHN BAILEY 106355 Sgt Pilot British

Bailey was born on October 23 1919, son of Sir Abe Bailey Bt. He was at Winchester College and Christ Church, Oxford, where he read Philosophy, Politics and Economics.

234 and 603 Squadrons Bailey was a member of the University Air Squadron and transferred to the RAFVR in June 1939 (754310). Called up on September 1, he went to No 1 ITW, Cambridge in November and on December 30 he was posted to RAF College FTS, Cranwell, on No 7 Course. Bailey completed his flying training at 5 FTS, Sealand and then went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum. On June 10 1940 he was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down and after he had converted to Defiants, Bailey joined 264 Squadron at Duxford on June 19. In late August Bailey took part in 264’s last day-fighting engagements. On the 28th his Defiant was severely damaged in combat with Bf 109s of JG 26. He made a forced-landing at Court Lodge Farm, Petham. Both he and his gunner, Sergeant O A Hardy, were unhurt. Before being shot down, they damaged a He 111. On October 22 Bailey joined 85 Squadron at Castle Camps, as it went over to nightfighting. He was with the squadron until July 1941, when he went to 1452 Flight, then forming at West Malling with Turbinlite Havocs. Soon afterwards, at his own request, he returned to 264 Squadron. On January 1 1942 Bailey moved to 125 Squadron at Fairwood Common, as a Flight Commander. Flying a Beaufighter on September 20 1942, he damaged a Ju 88 and on November 10 shot another down E of Montrose. When his tour was completed, Bailey was attached to the 415th Night Fighter Squadron, USAF on April 1 1943, as a Liaison Officer. In July he went to 54 OTU, Charter Hall as an instructor. He later moved to RAF Honiley, to help form 60 OTU for night-fighter pilots, and he was appointed CFI. Bailey was posted to Italy in November 1943 and he joined 600 Squadron at Monte Corvino on December 3. During the night of February 29/March 1 1944 he shot down a Ju 88 near Rome, on June 2/3 a Ju 87 and a Bf 110, on July 6/7 another Ju 88 and on the 10/11th another Ju 87. Bailey completed his tour and was awarded the DFC (8.9.44). He returned to Britain and was given a staff job at the Air Ministry. After release from the RAF, Bailey returned to Oxford, gaining a BA in 1947 and an MA in 1949. He returned to South Africa, where he went farming and later moved into publishing. Bailey died in 2000.

Bailey joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741820), on July 26 1938 and did his elementary flying training at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty and 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham. Called up in early October 1939, he was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on the 9th, for No 43 Course. With his training completed on April 27 1940, he joined 234 Squadron at Leconfield on May 4. Bailey shared Ju 88s on July 8 and 27, he damaged a Bf 109 on August 18 and he damaged two Bf 110s on September 4. He joined 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 10. He claimed a Bf 109 shot down on the 15th and another on October 2. In late October Bailey went to 7 FTS, Peterborough, as an instructor. He was posted to Canada on January 7 1941 and as an instructor at 31 SFTS, Kingston, Ontario, he taught FAA pilots dive-bombing, formation techniques and advanced flying. He was commissioned in May 1941. After his return to Britain in October 1943, Bailey was posted as an instructor to 15 (P) AFU on December 7, as an instructor. Bailey left Training Command on May 2 1944 and went to 105 (Transport) OTU, Bramcote, then to 107 OTU at Leicester East before joining 271 Squadron at Down Ampney. He left the RAF on November 25 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant, and he died in 2001. PO 27.5.41 FO 27.5.42 FL 27.5.43

GRAHAM GEORGE BAILEY 83987 PO Pilot British 257, 43, 79 and 56 Squadrons Bailey, of Henleaze, Gloucestershire, joined the RAFVR in July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748110). He was called up on September 1 1939 and with training completed, he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down, converted to Hurricanes and joined 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on September 8 1940.

PO 26.9.39 FO 26.9.40 FL 26.9.41 SL 1.7.45

He moved to 43 Squadron, Usworth on September 10, then to 79 Squadron at Pembrey on the 13th. Bailey’s final move came on October 15, when he joined 56 Squadron at Boscombe Down. Posted to Malta, Bailey flew off HMS Ark Royal on April 27 1941. He joined the newly-formed 185 Squadron at Hal Far on May 12. He shared in shooting down a SM 79 on July 27. On November 9 1941 two Hurricanes from 185 went out to patrol over a returning naval force. They intercepted a force of enemy torpedo-bombers, attempting to attack the ships. Bailey, in one of the Hurricanes, did not come back and was thought to have been hit by return fire. He may have destroyed one of the bombers before he was himself shot down. Bailey was 25 years old and is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 1, Column 1.

JOHN CYRIL LINDSAY DYSON BAILEY 74660 PO Pilot British 46 Squadron Born in March 1920, Bailey was the elder son of Air Commodore G C Bailey. He was educated at Tonbridge School from 1933 to 1937. He went on to Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, where he read Mechanical Sciences. Bailey was a member of the University Air Squadron and transferred to the RAFVR in June 1939 (754319). He was called up on September 1 1939 and completed his training at RAF College FTS, Cranwell, on No 8 Course, which began on March 6 1940. With the course completed, he went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 22 1940 and after converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 46 Squadron at Digby on July 20. On September 2, flying Hurricane P 3067 from Stapleford, he was shot down in an engagement over the Thames Estuary. He died of his injuries at Detling Aerodrome and was buried in Maidstone Cemetery on September 11. Bailey is remembered on a plaque at Tonbridge School, unveiled on November 26 2003.

PO 17.8.40 FO 11.8.41

HENRY NOEL DAWSON BAILEY 84957 PO Pilot British 54 Squadron

PO 3.10.39

Born on December 15 1917, Bailey joined the RAFVR in September 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742506), and did his weekend flying at Derby.

PAUL ABBOTT BAILLON 86331 PO Pilot British 609 Squadron

Called up on September 1 1939, he went to ITW, was then posted to 5 EFTS, Hanworth in March 1940 for elementary flying training, after which he was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand, on No 49 Course, from June 16 to September 7 1940. With his training completed, Bailey went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 7 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on the 28th. He remained with the squadron until September 1941, when, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant, he was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth as a Flight Commander instructor. Bailey joined an Air Ministry Unit attached to Rolls Royce, Derby and Hucknall for flying duties in January 1942 and remained there until March 1946, when he was released from the RAF, as a Squadron Leader. He continued flying for Rolls Royce, eventually becoming Chief Test Pilot. Bailey flew the first jet lift machine, the ‘Flying Bedstead’, in 1954.

Born on April 1 1914 at Upton, near Northampton, Baillon was educated at Ratcliffe College. He was articled to a firm of solicitors in Northampton from 1933 and was admitted as a solicitor on July 1 1938. Baillon joined the RAFVR in September 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748022), and began his weekend flying at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell. Called up at the outbreak of war, he went to No 1 ITW, Hastings for about three months, followed by flying training at RAF College FTS, Cranwell, on No 11 Course, from June 8 1940. Baillon went to 7 OTU on September 7, converted to Spitfires and joined 609 Squadron at Middle Wallop on the

PO 7.9.40 FO 7.9.41 FL 7.9.42

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back in mid-June, on fighter patrols in the Montrose/Aberdeen area, in support of 603 Squadron. Baird was on a reconnaissance flight off the south-west coast of Norway on the morning of October 20 1940, in Blenheim P 6952. After engaging and shooting down a Do 17, the Blenheim was attacked by three Bf 109s. One engine was put out of action and the cockpit filled with smoke. Baird got down to low level, flying blind and skimming the sea, feeling for the surface at a speed of 150 mph. The aircraft struck and the silence was complete, as the fuselage filled with water. Baird freed himself and opened the hatch. He then managed to float out the unconscious Sergeant D L Burton but was unable to rescue Sergeant R Copcutt, also unconscious, before the aircraft sank. Further back the Wop/AG, Sergeant SV Wood, managed to get out and launch the dinghy. The three survivors were made PoW. Baird’s long captivity was spent in various camps and he returned to Britain on VE Day 1945. He was repatriated to New Zealand but in late 1947 applied to rejoin the RAF and was granted an extended commission. After refresher courses on Oxfords and Wellingtons, he converted to Lincolns and joined 35 Squadron at Mildenhall, as a Flight Commander. In February 1950 Baird went on an Air Traffic Control course. He served as a Controller at stations in the UK, the Far East and Germany and retired from the RAF on December 2 1963 as a Flight Lieutenant. He returned to New Zealand and settled back in Foxton.

29th. On October 27 his Spitfire, P 9503, was severely damaged by return fire from an enemy aircraft engaged over Andover. Baillon baled out near Upavon, unhurt. In combat with Bf 109s over the Channel in the late afternoon of November 28 1940, Baillon was shot down into the sea, in Spitfire R 6631. His body was later washed ashore on the French coast and he is buried in Bayeux War Cemetery. Baillon’s brother, Mark, was killed on December 28 1940, serving as a Flight Lieutenant with 42 Squadron, Coastal Command. PO 7.9.40

GEORGE STOBIE PRESTON BAIN 85647 PO Pilot British 111 Squadron Bain joined the RAFVR in Edinburgh in July 1939 (758205). He was called up in September and posted to 3 ITW, Hastings in November. He went to 12 EFTS, Prestwick for his elementary flying and on to 5 FTS, Sealand on No 47 Course, which began on April 29 1940. For some unknown reason, Bain completed his training on September 7, with No 49 Course. Bain was then posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down and after converting to Hurricanes he joined 111 Squadron at Drem on October 3 1940 and made his first flight next day, a formation practice. The squadron moved soon afterwards to Dyce and it was flying from there on May 8 1941 that Bain crashed, suffering injuries that barred him from further operational flying. While he was in hospital, 111 moved south to North Weald and Bain was able to arrange a posting there, as a trainee Operations Room Controller. He took over as Controller in September 1941 and continued there until February 1944, when he was posted to Tangmere as Deputy Controller. Bain received a Mention in Despatches for his work during the Invasion. He became Senior Controller at Tangmere and later at the joint Tangmere and Middle Wallop operations room at Middle Wallop. In early 1945 Bain was posted to HQ 11 Group, Uxbridge and in April he became CO at RAF Lerwick, Shetland. He closed the station in August 1945 and served as a Staff Officer at Group HQ, Inverness until released in November 1945 as a Squadron Leader. Bain died in 1996.

APO 13.5.39 PO 16.3.40 FO 6.11.41

AUBREY CYRIL BAKER 64892 Sgt Pilot British

FL 1.9.45

610 and 41 Squadrons

Baker joined 610 Squadron, AAF, as an Aircrafthand (810145), for four years before the war. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot. After being called up on August 24 1939, Baker was posted from 610 to 8 EFTS, Woodley on October 29, as an AC 2. He moved to 9 FTS, Hullavington, on No 18 Course, on April 18 1940 and on completion, he rejoined 610 at Biggin Hill on July 27. With no experience of Spitfires, Baker and three other new arrivals were sent to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 29th. After converting to Spitfires, they rejoined 610 on August 12. Baker claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on August 24, shot down another Bf 109 and also probably destroyed a Bf 110 and a Do 17 on the 29th and probably destroyed another Do 17 on the 30th. He was posted away to 41 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 29 1940. On October 20 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another on January 10 1941. Commissioned in April 1941, Baker later went to the Middle East and joined 112 Squadron in the Western Desert in February 1942. On June 6 Baker destroyed a Bf 109 and on July 19 he damaged a Ju 88. On completing his operational tour, he was awarded the DFC (4.12.42). Baker was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant and he died in 1978.

PO 7.9.40 FO 7.9.41 FL 7.9.42

CYRIL EDGAR JOSEPH BAINES 26152 SL Pilot British 238 Squadron Baines, who was born on November 24 1909, went to Haileybury College. He entered RAF College, Cranwell, as a Cadet, in September 1928. He represented the College at Rugby Union and graduated in July 1930, with a Permanent Commission, and joined 32 Squadron at Kenley on the 26th. He was sent to RAF Calshot on October 2 1932 for a Flying Boat course, after which he joined 209 (Flying Boat) Squadron at Plymouth. Posted to 24 (Communications) Squadron at Hendon on November 13 1934, Baines’ stay was short and he went to RAF College, Cranwell on March 11 1935, as a flying instructor. Baines joined the Administrative Staff at HQ Fighter Command on March 7 1938 and remained there until May 18 1940, when he was given command of 238 Squadron, then reforming at Tangmere. He was posted away on July 15 1940 and is believed to have sailed in the aircraft carrier HMS Argus, which left Greenock on July 23 for Malta. She docked at Gibraltar on the 30th and on August 2 two Sunderlands of 10 (RAAF) Squadron flew to Malta, carrying ground crews, to service the Hurricanes that Argus would shortly deliver there. Baines is believed to have been on one of the Sunderlands and possibly joined the Air Staff at RAF Mediterranean at Malta. A career officer, Baines retired from the RAF on March 1 1958 as a Group Captain. He was made CBE (1.6.53), was a graduate of the Joint Services Staff College, the Army Staff College and was a Qualified A1 Instructor, Central Flying School. He died on April 20 1992.

PO 24.4.41 FO 24.4.42 FL 24.4.43

BARRIE BAKER 935961 Sgt Air Gunner

British

264 Squadron

Baker, from Kings Norton, Birmingham, enlisted in the RAFVR for the duration of hostilities at 2 RAF Depot, Cardington in September 1939. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and after completing his gunnery training, he was with 264 Squadron at Kirton in-Lindsey by June 1940. After a period of night-fighting, following heavy losses over Dunkirk, 264 moved to Hornchurch on August 21 for daylight patrols.

PO 26.7.30 FO 26.1.32 FL 26.1.36 SL 1.10.38 WC 1.12.40 GC 1.1.44 GC 1.7.47

GEORGE MAURICE BAIRD 42094 PO Pilot New Zealander

FL 6.11.42

Five days later Baker was flying with Flight Lieutenant A J Banham in Defiant L 6985. They had just destroyed a Do 17 over Thanet, when they were attacked and shot down by Bf 109s. Their aircraft crashed two miles off Herne Bay. Banham baled out and was rescued from the sea but Baker was never found. He was 27 years old. With no known grave, Baker’s name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 11.

248 Squadron

Born in Foxton, North Island on October 28 1913, Baird applied for a short service commission in April 1938. Provisionally accepted, he sailed for the UK on February 1 1939 in the RMS Tainui. He began his ab initio course at 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury on March 16 1939. He moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand on May 30. With training completed, Baird joined 248 Squadron at Hendon on November 6 1939. It was moved from Fighter to Coastal Command in February 1940 but it was seconded

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CLIVE CONRAD MAHONEY BAKER 40499 FO Pilot British 23 Squadron

another Bf 109 and damaged another and a few days later Baker shared a Bf 109 and damaged another. Towards the end of 1940 he went on loan to 306 (Polish) Squadron at Ternhill, which had only recently become operational. On January 11 1941 421 Flight was renumbered 91 Squadron. Baker was posted away and joined 74 Squadron at Biggin Hill on the 23rd. On a ‘Rhubarb’ operation on May 26 he shot down a Bf 109. With his tour completed in late July 1941, Baker spent the next six months instructing at 51 OTU, Debden and later 52 OTU, Aston Down. After a period in hospital, followed by a convalescence at Torquay, Baker was posted to a fighter squadron in the Western Desert in May1942. Promoted to Acting Squadron Leader, Baker took command of 229 Squadron at Ta Kali, Malta in September. On October 12 and 13 he damaged two Bf 109s. In December 1942 Baker returned to the UK and in January 1943 he went to RAF HQ Northern Ireland, as OC Tactics and Training. In April he became an instructor at 55 OTU, Annan, Scotland but in May went to Gibraltar, to take part in ferrying 300 Hurricanes to Cairo. New pilots took them on to Teheran, where they were picked up by Russian pilots. Back in Britain in July 1943, Baker was posted to 118 Squadron, Coltishall, as a supernumerary Flight Lieutenant. In January 1944 he was based at Croydon, as a ferry pilot and in March he went to CFS, Montrose for an instructors’ course, following which he went to Wrexham as CFI. Baker’s next posting, in January 1945, was as CGI at 17 FTS, Cranwell and after another ground job at RAF Kimbolton later in the year, he was released from the RAF on January 1 1946 as a Squadron Leader. He worked on a tea estate in Ceylon and for the Peruvian Central Railway, returning to the UK in 1953 and developing a business career, particularly in shipping. He became a company Managing Director. Baker died on July 3 2013.

Born on October 7 1919, Baker was educated at Malvern College. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training on November 29 1937. Baker went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on February 19 1938 for a short disciplinary course, after which he was then posted to 9 FTS, Hullavington on March 5. With training completed, Baker joined 23 Squadron at Wittering on September 17 1938. The squadron was converted from Demons to Blenheims in January 1939 and at the outbreak of war was employed on North Sea shipping fighter-escort patrols. In April 1940 the squadron went over to night-fighting. Baker was with 23 throughout the Battle of Britain. He went with ‘B’ Flight to Ford on September 12 1940. From December 9 to 20 he was at No 1 Blind Approach School at Watchfield, on No 7 Course. At the end of the year Baker was posted to 2 CFS, Cranwell, for an instructors’ course, and in March 1941 he was sent to instruct at 3 FTS, South Cerney, as a Flight Commander. In March 1942 Baker was posted away to the newly-formed Empire Central Flying School, as a tutor. Later Baker did a Beaufighter refresher course at 54 OTU, Charter Hall. He was retained there as an instructor for a while and he then joined 25 Squadron at Church Fenton, on Mosquitos. In September 1943 Baker was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander. From June to September 1944 he attended RAF Staff College at Gerrards Cross and in October he was posted to HQ British Air Forces South East Asia, as Squadron Leader Ops. Promoted to Wing Commander in October 1944, Baker joined 224 Group, which reformed as Air HQ Malaya in August 1945. He returned to the UK in November 1945. Baker remained in the RAF. He was made an OBE (9.6.49) and subsequently he held many flying, staff and command appointments at home and overseas until he took an early retirement on July 31 1971 as an Air Commodore. He was a graduate of the Staff College, Joint Services Staff College, the RAF Flying College and was an ‘A’ category CFS instructor. Baker died on July 30 2005. APO 19.2.38 PO 29.11.38 FO 29.8.40 FL 29.8.41 AC 1.7.68

APO 17.9.38 PO 25.7.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.44

LOUIS VICTOR BAKER 157151 Sgt Observer British

236 Squadron

Baker joined the RAFVR as an Airman u/t Observer (749361) in December 1938. He was called up on September 1 1939 and with training completed, he joined 236 Squadron at St Eval in August 1940 and flew his first operational sortie on September 3. Baker was posted with his flight to Aldergrove on November 19 1940, where it was combined with one from 235 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron. He flew his first operational sortie with 272 on the 21st. He was commissioned from Warrant Officer in March 1943 and he was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant.

SL 1.7.43 WC 1.1.53 GC 1.1.62

PO 15.3.43 FO 15.9.43 FL 15.3.45

ERIC DEBNAM BAKER 740057 Sgt Pilot British

145 Squadron RONALD DAVID BAKER 518293 Sgt Pilot British

Baker was born in Finsbury Park, Middlesex on August 14 1911. He joined the RAFVR in January 1937 as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he went to 11 Group Pool, St Athan on the 2nd and after converting to Blenheims, he was posted to 145 Squadron on October 7, then about to reform at Croydon. From March 1940 it began to re-equip with Hurricanes.

56 Squadron

Baker joined the RAF in October 1934, as an Aircraft hand. He later successfully applied for pilot training and with that finished, he arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan from 7 FTS, Peterborough on September 9 1939.

On May 16 1940 Baker was posted from 145 Squadron to RAF Hendon, for allocation to a squadron in France. Apparently he was not called upon and he rejoined 145 on May 25. On August 8 1940 Baker was reported ‘Missing’ after a combat over the Channel, S of the Isle of Wight in Hurricane, P 3381. He was 28. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 11.

After converting to Hurricanes, Baker went to Digby on October 6 and he was with 56 Squadron at Martlesham Heath in early 1940. Over Dunkirk, he damaged a He 111 on May 27 and another one two days later. On July 13 he claimed the destruction of a Ju 87 and he made a forced-landing at Rodmersham, following damage to his Hurricane, P 2985, in a combat over the Channel. Baker was killed on August 11 1940. His Hurricane, N 2667, was said to have been shot down into the sea by a lone Spitfire during a convoy patrol. He baled out but was dead when picked up. He is buried in Letchworth Cemetery, Hertfordshire. Baker was 23.

HENRY COLLINGHAM BAKER 41146 FO Pilot British 41 Squadron and 421 Flight Baker was born on May 19 1920 at Clowne, Derbyshire and was a pupil at King’s College, Taunton. As a candidate for a short service commission, Baker began his flying training at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty on July 25 1938, as a pupil pilot. After a disciplinary course at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, he went to 9 FTS, Hullavington in September.

STANLEY BAKER 80811 PO Pilot British

600, 54 and 66 Squadrons

Baker went to the London Choir School, after which he went to Pitman’s College at Croydon. He joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754136). He was called up on September 1. With training completed, Baker was commissioned in June 1940 and went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 22. He converted to Blenheims and joined 600 Squadron at Manston on July 9.

With training completed, he was posted to No 1 Electrical and Wireless School, Cranwell in May 1939, as a staff pilot. After a spell with 616 Squadron at Doncaster from September 19, Baker went to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on October 17 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 19 Squadron at Duxford on December 15. Over Dunkirk on June 1 1940 he shot down a Bf 110 and damaged another. After being involved in a car accident, Baker spent two months in hospital. Fit again, he was posted to 41 Squadron in late August 1940 and flew his first operational sortie with the squadron on September 14. On the 15th he shared in the destruction of a He 111 and damaged another and on the 30th he claimed a Bf 109. On the 19th he force landed in Spitfire X4409 following combat with Bf 109s. On October 8 1940 Baker joined the newly-formed 421 Flight at Hawkinge. On November 1 he shot down a Bf 109 and damaged another, on the 24th he destroyed

Baker was detached to No 2 School of Army Co-operation, Andover on July 11, for night-flying training. He rejoined 600 on the 16th. On August 5 Baker went to 5 OTU, Aston Down. On the 7th he crashed in Spitfire P 9518 but was unhurt. After finishing the conversion course, he joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 18. He claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed on September 1 and shared a Bf 110 on the 3rd. Baker moved to 66 Squadron at Gravesend on September 19. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on the 27th, damaged a Bf 109 on October 11, probably destroyed one on the 13th and another on the 25th.

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School at Catfoss. Awarded a Bar to the DFC (14.11.44), he received it from the King at Buckingham Palace on July 3 1945. Released from the RAF in 1946, Bamberger returned to Lever Brothers and he rejoined 610 Squadron at Hooton Park, becoming its CO in 1950. When the Korean crisis came he was recalled to the RAF. In February 1951 he was granted a Permanent Commission and in May 1952 he moved to an Intelligence unit, assessing strike capabilities of the Chinese and Korean forces. Bamberger retired on January 29 1959 as a Squadron Leader and he became Managing Director of a small packaging materials company which he had started in 1954. On retirement, he had an antique shop in Hampshire. Bamberger died on February 3 2008. In 2011 a plaque in his honour was unveiled at St John Plessington Catholic College, Bebington, Cheshire.

Baker was reported ‘Missing’ on February 11 1941, after he was shot down by a Bf 109 of LG 2 off Boulogne. He was 21 and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 31. PO 9.6.40

GEORGE ERIC BALL 39842 FO Pilot British

242 Squadron

Ball, from Tankerton, Kent, was a candidate for a short service commission, when he began his elementary flying training on May 10 1937, as a pupil pilot.

PO 9.2.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 9.2.44 SL 1.1.47 SL (RAuxAF) 1.4.50 On July 17 he was posted to 7 FTS, Peterborough and on completion of the course, he joined 19 Squadron at Duxford on February 19 1938. Ball was still with 19 in May 1940. Over Dunkirk on the 26th, Ball destroyed a Bf 109 and was wounded himself. During the night of June 18/19 he shot down a He 111 N of Colchester. On June 24 Ball joined 242 Squadron at Coltishall, as ‘A’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. On August 30 he destroyed a He 111, shared another and damaged a Bf 110, on September 7 he destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged a Bf 109, on the 9th destroyed a Bf 109, on the 18th a Ju 88 and on the 27th he damaged another Bf 109. Ball was awarded the DFC (1.10.40), as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. Posted from 242 on January 29 1941, he joined 73 Squadron in the Western Desert, as a Flight Commander. On April 11 1941, very soon after his arrival, Ball flew into a sandstorm and was forced down and taken prisoner (PoW No 2319). At some time he was held in Stalag Luft 3. After his release and return to the RAF Ball was given command of 222 Squadron at Fairwood Common in October 1945. He was killed in a flying accident on February 1 1946, when his Meteor, EE 448, dived into the ground at Fairmile, Devon. Ball was 27. He is buried in Exeter Higher Cemetery.

JAMES JULIUS FREDERIC HENRY BANDINEL 74326 FO Pilot British 3 Squadron Bandinel was at Charterhouse School and went on to Oriel College, Oxford, where he read Law. He joined the University Air Squadron and then transferred to the RAFVR on June 15 1939 (754311) and was commissioned on September 26. He reported for full-time service in October 1939 and completed his training at RAF College FTS, Cranwell. On June 22 1940 Bandinel went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 3 Squadron at Wick on July 20. Bandinel served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. He was posted away to 260 Squadron at Castletown on December 3 1940. The squadron embarked for the Middle East on May 19 1941. On December 14 he failed to return from operations over the Gazala area. Bandinel is remembered on the Alamein Memorial, Column 240. PO (RAFVR) 26.9.39 FO 26.9.40 FL 26.9.41

ARTHUR JOHN BANHAM 37565 FL Pilot British 264 and 229 Squadrons

APO 5.7.37 PO 10.5.38 FO 10.2.40 FL 20.2.41

CYRIL STANLEY BAMBERGER 116515 Sgt Pilot British 610 and 41 Squadrons

Educated at The Perse School, Cambridge, Banham entered the RAF as a candidate for a short service commission and began his training at 7 E&RFTS, Desford on November 25 1935, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 11 FTS, Wittering on February 22 1936 and with training completed, he joined 19 Squadron at Duxford on August 24.

He was born in Port Sunlight on May 4 1919. After school he began a five-year electrical engineering apprenticeship at Lever Brothers in 1934. He joined 610 Squadron, AAF in 1936, as an Aircraft hand (810024).

By January 1 1939, Banham was ‘B’ Flight Commander and he was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on March 2 1939. He joined 611 Squadron, also at Duxford, on September 26 1939. He was posted to 12 Group Fighter Pool, Aston Down on January 18 1940, as Squadron Leader Flying, with the rank of Acting Squadron Leader. In March the unit was redesignated 5 OTU. Banham relinquished his acting rank on June 1 1940, when he joined 264 Squadron at Duxford, as ‘A’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Flight Lieutenant. He damaged a Ju 88 on August 24. On the 26th Banham was flying with Sergeant B Baker in Defiant L 6985. After destroying a Do 17 over Thanet, they were attacked and shot down by Bf 109s. The aircraft crashed two miles off Herne Bay. Having ordered Baker to bale out, Banham did so himself. He was rescued from the sea but Baker was never found. Banham was promoted on September 6 and given command of 229, a Hurricane squadron then at Wittering. It moved soon afterwards to Northolt. On September 15 he damaged a He 111, on the 27th he damaged two Ju 88s and on the 30th he damaged another. On October 15 Banham was shot down in flames, in Hurricane P 3124. He baled out, badly burned, and the aircraft crashed on to buildings at South Street Farm, Stockbury. Banham underwent plastic surgery by Archie McIndoe at Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead. He was posted to Air Ministry in January 1941 and apart from three months spent at Staff College in early 1942 he remained there until April 1943, when he was posted to Cranwell for a flying refresher course. Some short courses followed at Grantham and 51 OTU, Cranfield, after which Banham went to 604 Squadron, Scorton as a superrnumerary. He was posted to command 108 Squadron in Malta on December 22 1943. Banham took command of 286 Wing at Grottaglie, Italy on July 19 1944, served at No 1 Base Area, Naples for two months from October 13 and on December 13 1944 he took command of 287 Wing, Ancona, an appointment he held until returning to the UK for release in July 1945. Banham died in 1987. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in 1940.

He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot in April 1939. Bamberger was called to full-time service on August 24 1939 and on October 8 he was posted from 610 Squadron to 8 EFTS, Woodley. He later went to 9 FTS, Hullavington to complete his training and he rejoined 610 at Biggin Hill on July 27 1940. With no experience on Spitfires, he was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 30. After converting to Spitfires, Bamberger rejoined 610 on August 12. He claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed on August 28. He was posted to 41 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 17 and on the 23rd he damaged a Bf 109 and on October 5 he shot down another. After volunteering for Malta, Bamberger left 41 on October 19 1940. On the 21st he went to RAF Northolt, where he spent an hour flying one of 615 Squadron’s Hurricanes, his first experience in the aircraft. Bamberger then went direct to King George V Dock in Glasgow and reported to HMS Argus on the 23rd and then sailed for Malta. Luckily for him, he did not fly off for Malta with the twelve Hurricanes and two navigating Skuas that did. Only five of the fourteen aircraft reached their destination. Bamberger eventually reached Malta on November 28 on the destroyer HMS Hotspur and on arrival he joined 261 Squadron. On January 18 1941 he destroyed a Ju 87 and another the next day. 261 Squadron was disbanded on May 21 1941. Bamberger had moved on the 12th to the newly-formed 185 Squadron at Hal Far. He was posted back to England on June 12 and sent to Central Gunnery School at Sutton Bridge. Commissioned in February 1942, he was posted to Northern Ireland as a Gunnery Officer, with Americans who were converting to Spitfires. In March 1943 Bamberger volunteered for North Africa and he joined 93 Squadron at Hal Far, Malta in May. On July 13, operating over Sicily, he shot down a Ju 87. In August Bamberger joined 243 Squadron in Sicily, as a Flight Commander. He was awarded the DFC (28.9.43). On October 16 Bamberger damaged a Bf 109, his first success after 243 crossed to Italy. On May 25 1944 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and on June 15 a Mc 202 damaged. Bamberger came off operations in July for medical reasons and returned to the UK. He was sent on an instructors’ course and in early 1945 was posted to the Gunnery

APO 3.2.36 PO 25.11.36 FO 26.6.38 FL 18.4.40 SL 1.9.41 WC 1.7.43

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THOMAS HENRY BANISTER 48228 Sgt Air Gunner British

September 29. He did not fly his first operational sortie until October 28 1940. In August 1942 Baraldi was posted to 111 Squadron at Kenley, as a Flight Commander, and in October he went with it to Gibraltar and then to North Africa on November 11. He damaged a Ju 88 E of Bone on November 18. He was posted away from 111 on January 11 1943, having had some trouble with his eyes. He was then 30 years old. Baraldi was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1988.

219 Squadron

Banister joined the RAF in April 1934, as an Aircrafthand (517215). He later trained as an Air Gunner and he joined 219 Squadron at Catterick from 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 5 1940. On the 15th of the month he was flying in Blenheim L 8698, with Sergeant O A Dupee, when the aircraft was hit by return fire from a He 111, engaged off Scarborough. Dupee was wounded in the arm. Banister went forward, assisted Dupee from his seat and took control of the damaged aircraft. Dupee, although weak from loss of blood, directed Banister, who was thus enabled to make a forced-landing, with undercarriage retracted, at RAF Driffield. For this action, both men were awarded the DFM (24.9.40). Banister was commissioned in March 1942 and released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant.

PO 7.9.40 FO 7.9.41 FL 7.9.42

WIENCZYSLAW BARANSKI P 0249 FO Pilot Polish 607 Squadron Baranski was born on September 9 1908 at Solec, Wisla, Poland and joined the PAF in 1930. He was commanding 113 Eskadra in September 1939. On the 4th Baranski shared in the destruction of a Ju 87, destroyed one on the 5th and shared a He 111 on the 6th.

PO 20.3.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 20.3.44

WILLIAM HENRY BANKS 47102 Sgt Pilot British 245, 32 and 504 Squadrons

When Poland fell, Baranski escaped to Romania, then to France, where he joined l’Armée de l’Air. In early 1940 he commanded a flight of three Polish pilots in Groupe de Chasse III/6. They flew D 520 Dewoitine fighters from Coulommiers. During the fighting in June, he shared in the destruction of a Fiat BR 20. In the middle of the month the unit moved to Perpignan and a few days later flew to North Africa. Baranski escaped to England, via Gibraltar and went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 25. After converting to Hurricanes, Baranski joined 607 Squadron at Turnhouse on October 9 1940, for further training. On November 7 he was posted to 303 Squadron at Leconfield. He joined on the 12th, as a Flight Lieutenant. He was awarded the KW (1.2.41) and on February 22 1941 he went to the newly-formed 316 Squadron at Pembrey, as a Flight Commander. His first operational tour over, Baranski went to 316’s Operations Room on July 19 1941. A year later he moved to 308 Squadron’s Operations Room at Heston. Baranski returned to operations on May 16 1943, when he took command of 302 Squadron at Hutton Cranswick. He was awarded a Bar to the KW (7.7.43) and a second Bar (20.10.43), when he was posted away to be Polish Liaison Officer at HQ 12 Group. Baranski moved to HQ PAF at Blackpool on April 3 1944, was awarded the VM (5th Class) (15.5.44) and went to a course at Polish Staff College on November 28 1944. He was released from the PAF on November 20 1946.

Born on October 4 1916, Banks enlisted in the RAF in February 1936, as an Aircrafthand (528637). He later applied for pilot training and with training completed he was with 245 Squadron early in 1940. He flew with the squadron on patrols over Dunkirk and on June 14, on a patrol over France, his aircraft was damaged by anti-aircraft fire. Banks was attached to 32 Squadron at Acklington on September 19 1940 but five days later he moved to 504 Squadron at Filton. On the 30th of the month he made a forcedlanding in Hurricane P 3774, following a combat over the Yeovil area. Commissioned in October 1941, Banks remained in the RAF after the war, retiring on May 30 1958 as a Squadron Leader. He died on January 16 1980. PO 29.10.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 29.10.43 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.7.52

ERIC SAMUEL BANN 741589 Sgt Pilot British

238 Squadron

A native of Macclesfield, Cheshire, Bann was educated at Athey Street School and studied aeronautical engineering at Manchester College of Technology.

ROBERT HUGH BARBER 42385 PO Pilot British 46 Squadron

He joined the RAFVR in May 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot, and was called up at the outbreak of war. Bann completed his training at 6 FTS, Little Rissington, on No 16 Course, which began on November 6 1939. He went on to 10 B&GS, Warmwell, with the Advanced Training Squadron of 6 FTS, on May 10 1940, for armament training. The course ended on May 17 and Bann joined 253 Squadron at Kenley and he moved to 238 Squadron at Tangmere on the 21st. On July 13 he destroyed a Bf 110 and shared a Do 17, on August 11 he claimed the destruction of a He 111, on the 13th destroyed a He 111 and on September 21 he shared a Ju 88. Bann’s Hurricane, V 6776, was severely damaged in combat over Fareham on September 28 and he baled out over Brading Marshes but was killed when his parachute failed to open. Bann was 26. He is buried in Macclesfield Cemetery, Cheshire. His cousin, SergeantObserver Jack Bann, was lost on a patrol with 53 Squadron on August 28 1940, operating from Detling in Blenheims. He was 22 and he is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial. E S Bann’s brother served as groundcrew with 617 Squadron.

Barber was born on December 19 1915 at Hatfield, Hertfordshire. He moved to Lincolnshire as a child and was educated at Oakham School. He went into estate agency but in 1935 he went to London and joined the Metropolitan Police. Barber entered the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training at 22 E&RFTS, Cambridge on June 12 1939. After being accepted, he was posted to 12 FTS, Grantham in late August. In early 1940 Barber went to RAF Manby for an armament course and was then posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 29 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 46 Squadron on August 15 at Digby. On September 4, acting as weaver, Barber was jumped by a Bf 109 over Rochford. His glycol system was damaged and he was soaked in fluid. He dived from 15000 feet and made a belly-landing at Chigborough Farm, Heybridge. He was admitted to St Margaret’s Hospital, Epping, with three fractured vertebrae in his neck and his jaw broken in three places. He was in hospital for six months. Barber’s medical category barred him from further operational flying and he went to HQ 10 Group, as an assistant to the Controller. When Wing Commander AG Malan formed CGS at Sutton Bridge, Barber was one of his early pupils. After the course, Barber commanded Armament Practice Camps at Warmwell, Martlesham Heath and Southend. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.43). Early in 1944 Barber went to the Gun Research Unit at Exeter, flying with the new gyro gunsight. He was then given command of a non-operational Spitfire squadron at Southend, to train pilots on the new sight, including some Americans. Later in the year, the squadron moved to North Weald. Barber had to return to Southend to clear up some matters. He was to be flown there in an Oxford. The aircraft

FERDINAND HENRY RAPHAEL BARALDI 86332 PO Pilot British 609 Squadron A member of the RAFVR from July 1939 (754760), Baraldi was called up in September and after ITW, he was at No 1 EFTS, Hatfield from December 4 1939 to May 10 1940. He went to RAF College FTS, Cranwell on June 8, on No 11 Course. On completion, he was commissioned on September 7 and posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden. After converting to Spitfires, Baraldi joined 609 Squadron at Middle Wallop on

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crash-landing. At 500 feet the Bf 109 attacked again, this time setting the Defiant on fire. Before crashing, Barker shot the enemy fighter down and it crashed a short distance away. He and Thorn had only slight injuries. For this action they were each awarded a Bar to the DFM (11.2.41). They destroyed a He 111 at night on April 9 1941. The partnership broke up when Thorn was posted to 32 Squadron in October 1941. Barker remained with 264 until 1943. He was then posted to the Middle East, as an air gunnery instructor. He was commissioned in April 1944 and released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flying Officer.

swung on take-off and crashed. The pilot was killed and Barber was in hospital for several months. He returned to the APC at Warmwell and later joined a Disarmament Group, about to move to Germany. After a motor accident on a mined bridge and another spell in hospital, Barber was posted to Sylt, to set up an APC for Squadron training. Barber was released from the RAF in 1947 and did not live in the UK again. He eventually settled in New Zealand and died there in 2000. APO 5.8.39 PO 2.3.40 FO 2.3.41 FL 2.3.42

RICHARD GEORGE ARTHUR BARCLAY 74661 FO Pilot British 249 Squadron

PO 25.4.44 FO 25.10.44 Born at Upper Norwood, Surrey on December 7 1919, Barclay was a member of the banking family. He was educated at Stowe School and then went to Trinity College, Cambridge, to read Economics and Law.

GEORGE LEONARD BARKER 44571 PO Observer British 600 Squadron Barker, from Diss, Norfolk, joined the RAF in September 1934, as an Aircrafthand (517937), and served in Palestine, as an LAC, in the 1930s. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Observer, completed his training and passed out as a Sergeant-Observer.

In October 1938 he joined the University Air Squadron and enlisted in the RAFVR in June 1939 (754320), as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up in October, he went to 3 ITW on November 8. He began his flying training at RAF College FTS, Cranwell on January 1 1940. The course completed, he was then posted to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum on June 2 1940. Eight days later he went to 5 OTU, to convert to Hurricanes, and on June 23 he joined 249 Squadron at Leconfield. On September 2 1940 Barclay damaged a Bf 110, on the 7th he shot down a Bf 109 and damaged a Do 17 and a He 111, on the 15th he shot down a Do 17, probably destroyed two others and damaged another, on the 18th probably destroyed a He 111, on the 19th shared a Ju 88 and on the 27th claimed a Bf 109 and a Ju 88 destroyed. During an attack on Ju 88s on that day, Barclay, in Hurricane V 6622, was shot down S of London and made a forcedlanding at West Malling. He probably destroyed Bf 109s on October 14 and 15, two probable Bf 109s on November 7, shared a He 59 destroyed on the 11th and shared another Bf 109 on the 14th. He was awarded the DFC (26.11.40). On November 29 1940 Barclay was shot down by a Bf 109 and wounded in the ankle, legs and elbow. He spent two months in hospital and did not return to 249 until March 1941. He was posted to 52 OTU, Debden on May 7, as an instructor. Three months later he joined 611 Squadron at Hornchurch, as a Flight Commander. During a sweep over St Omer on September 20 1941, Barclay was attacked by Bf 109s and his engine was damaged. He made a forced-landing at Buyschoeure, after breaking high tension cables. With the help of the French Resistance, he crossed the Spanish frontier, arriving in Barcelona on November 7. He reached the British Embassy, left for Gibraltar on December 7 and arrived back in the UK two days later. After a short attachment to HQ Fighter Command, Barclay was posted to HQ 9 Group, as Tactics Officer. On April 4 1942 he was given command of 601 Squadron, then about to go to the Middle East. The squadron embarked at Liverpool on April 10 in HMT K6 (SS Rangitata) and reached Port Tewfik on June 4, having gone via South Africa. Barclay did not get a chance to lead 601. He went to command 238 Squadron at Amriya on July 2 1942. On the 16th he shot down a Bf 109. In the afternoon of the 17th he destroyed a Ju 87. In the evening 238 was on a patrol of the Alamein area, acting as top cover for 274 Squadron. As 238 went for some Ju 87s, it was jumped by Bf 109s and Barclay was shot down and killed, possibly by Leutnant Werner Schroer of III/JG 27. Barclay is buried in the El Alamein Cemetery and he is remembered on a plaque in Cromer Parish Church, where his father was vicar from 1939 to 1946. Barclay’s elder brother, Lieutenant G C Barclay, died serving with the 2nd Battalion, Royal Norfolk Regiment. He is buried in Kohima War Cemetery, India.

In early 1940 he was serving with 59 Squadron, Coastal Command. On July 6 Barker volunteered to fly with a new pilot on his first operational sortie. They were attacked by two Bf 109s for a period of 15 minutes. With great coolness, although the rear gun had been put out of action, Barker assisted the gunner by telling the pilot what tactics to employ. For this action he was awarded the DFM (13.9.40). Commissioned on September 7 1940, Barker was detached from 59 Squadron to 600 Squadron at Redhill on the 19th, for wireless duties. It seems that he made no flights with 600 before rejoining 59 on the 24th. Barker was again attached to 600 Squadron on September 28, this time for ‘specialist wireless and navigation duties’. He flew two operational sorties, on October 2, in a Blenheim, and October 6, in a Beaufighter. There is no record of Barker returning to 59 Squadron and at some point he did go on to the strength of 600. He was posted away from 600 on March 20 1941, to join 85 Squadron at Debden, to be AI operator to the CO, Squadron Leader P W Townsend. From November 8 1941, Barker was attached to 456 (RAAF) Squadron at Valley, to instruct the squadron’s radar operators. In August 1942 Barker was gazetted as a Flight Lieutenant. At some time after this he went for pilot training and qualified. In July 1944 he was attached to 51 OTU. During the evening of July 18 1944, Barker’s Beaufighter, R 2080, crashed into anti-V1 balloon cables over Kent. He was killed when the aircraft crashed at Weike Farm, Kingsdown. His navigator survived the crash. Barker was 30. He is buried in Diss Cemetery, Norfolk. PO 7.9.40 FO 28.8.41 FL 28.8.42

JOHN KEETH BARKER 566251 Sgt Pilot British

Barker joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice, in January 1933 and passed out, as a Wireless Operator, in December 1935. Barker later applied for pilot training and was accepted. He began his ab initio course on December 28 1938, as a Corporal. He went to 10 FTS, Ternhill on March 20 1939, on No 11 Course. With training completed, he joined 152 Squadron direct from 10 FTS on October 2 1939, on its reformation at Acklington. Barker was still a Corporal at that time. On August 18 1940 he claimed a Ju 87 destroyed and on the 25th a Bf 109. Barker did not return from a sortie on September 4 1940. He is believed to have been shot down by return fire from a Do 17, engaged 25 miles off Bognor, in Spitfire R 6909. He baled out but was killed. His body was washed up on the French coast and he is buried in Etaples Military Cemetery, France. Barker was 23.

PO 3.10.39 FO 3.10.40 FL 3.10.41

FREDERICK JAMES BARKER 178549 Sgt Air Gunner British

152 Squadron

264 Squadron

Born in Bow, London on March 16 1918, Barker went to Old Palace School and Coopers’ Company School.

ERIC CHARLES BARNARD 178934 Sgt Air Gunner British

He joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (747751). Called up on September 1, he joined 264 Squadron on its reformation on October 30. He teamed up with Sergeant E R Thorn. Over Dunkirk on May 28 1940 they destroyed three Bf 109s, on the 29th two Ju 87s and a Bf 110 and on the 31st a He 111 and shared another. Both men were awarded the DFM (14.6.40). When 264 moved to Hornchurch on August 21 1940, Thorn and Barker were again in action. On the 26th they destroyed two Do 17s and, as they went for a third, they were attacked by a Bf 109. With their aircraft damaged, Thorn spun down and prepared for a

600 Squadron

Barnard joined 601 Squadron, AAF on March 6 1936 for ground crew duties (801384) and later trained as an Air Gunner. He was called up on August 24 1939. In February 1940 601 exchanged its Blenheims for Hurricanes and he was posted to 600 Squadron at Manston on May 11 1940, as an AC 2 Air Gunner but was later promoted to Sergeant.

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WILKINSON BARNES 90294 FO Pilot British

Barnard was flying as a member of the crew of Blenheim L 1111 on September 8, when they became lost, following an R/T failure during a night patrol. With fuel exhausted, the crew, Barnard, Pilot Officer H B L Hough, pilot and Sergeant A Smith, radar operator, all baled out safely. The aircraft crashed near Odiham. On July 1 1941 Barnard went to 125 Squadron at Colerne, as an Air Gunner. He was with the squadron until January 28 1942, when he was posted to Training Command, for training as a Navigator. Barnard qualified at 2 Air Observers’ School, Edmonton Canada on April 16 1943. He returned to the UK and qualified as an Observer Radio at 62 OTU, Ouston on September 14 and finished as Navigator Radar at 63 OTU, after which he was posted to 25 Squadron at Acklington on January 18 1944. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in April 1944, Barnard was posted to 85 Squadron, Swannington on April 27 1945 and remained with the squadron until his release from the RAF on July 24 1946. Barnard died in 2002.

Born in Sunderland on July 13 1913, Barnes was educated at Tunstall Boys’ School, Sunderland and Durham School. He trained as a Chartered Surveyor and Auctioneer and joined the family firm, becoming a partner in 1937. Barnes joined 607 Squadron, AAF at Usworth in early 1938. He was mobilised on August 24 1939 and on October 7 was posted from 607 to 7 FTS, Peterborough, for No 12 Course. With his training completed, Barnes joined 615 Squadron on March 6 1940. He moved to 504 Squadron at Debden on the 17th, on a temporary posting, which apparently became permanent. On May 12 he flew to France with the squadron, which was withdrawn on the 22nd, after losing most of its aircraft. Barnes returned to England by boat from Boulogne, after dumping his logbook and kit in the harbour. 504 Squadron reformed at Wick, later moving to Castletown. On September 4 1940 it flew south, via Catterick, and arrived at Hendon on the 5th. The squadron was heavily involved in the Battle of Britain until moving to Filton on October 26. In late July 1941 ‘A’ Flight was re-numbered 81 Squadron, for service in Russia. ‘B’ Flight went to Ballyherbert, with Barnes as Flight Commander. In December 1941 he went to 55 OTU, Crosby-on-Eden, as an instructor. In January 1942 Barnes received a Mention in Despatches. He was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader in April 1942 and appointed CO at RAF Brunton. In October Barnes went to 1529 BAT Flight at Wittering, for a Beam Approach course. On the 28th he took off in Master AZ 803, with Pilot Officer Hay as instructor. There was a fog and the beam was taken to help a bomber in distress. The Master crashed. Hay was not strapped in and was killed. Barnes was severely injured and was in RAF Hospital, Ely until June 1943. He went to the Rehabilitation Unit at Loughborough in August, moving later to Newcastle. Barnes was invalided out in March 1944 as a Flight Lieutenant. He rejoined the family firm and retired in 1978. A well-known figure in Sunderland, Barnes died there on May 19 1980.

PO 24.4.44 FO 24.10.44 FL 24.4.46

JOHN GUY CARDEW BARNES 90101 FL Pilot British 600 Squadron Born on March 1 1911, Barnes was educated at Windlesham Preparatory School, Bradfield College and l’Ecole de Commerce, Lausanne, Switzerland. In 1930 Barnes went to New York and studied banking at Columbia University. Whilst in New York, he taught modern harmony piano playing and wrote songs on Broadway. In 1940 and 1941 his song ‘My ACW 2’ was published and broadcast on both sides of the Atlantic. In 1935 Barnes returned to London and in 1937 he joined 600 Squadron, AAF at Hendon. He went to camp at Manston in August 1937 and learned to fly. Barnes was called to full-time service on August 24 1939 and served with 600 throughout the Battle of Britain. On December 28 1940 he was posted to CFS, Cranwell, for an instructor’s course, after which he went to 14 EFTS at Elmdon, which is now Birmingham Airport. In early 1942 Barnes was promoted to Wing Commander and appointed OC Troops on the Queen Mary and in 1943 on the Queen Elizabeth. In April 1944 Barnes was attached to the Invasion Planning Committee at Southampton. His job was to supervise and command an RAF special communications group that would take over and control Fighter Air Cover in the event of HMS Bulolo, the HQ ship, being sunk. So, following the invasion on June 6 1944, Barnes spent a week on a destroyer half a mile off the French coast at Arromanches. Once the landings were fully established, the ship returned to Southampton. In 1945 Barnes was with a Disarmament Wing in Germany, moving with the Army, collecting documents and technical material before it could be destroyed by the Germans. Barnes was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Wing Commander. He died in 1998.

PO (AAF) 2.8.38 PO 24.8.39 FO 2.8.40 FL 2.8.41

RICHARD EDGAR BARNETT 26222 SL Pilot British 234 Squadron Barnett was at Cheltenham College and went to RAF College, Cranwell, as a Flight Cadet, in January 1930. He graduated in December 1931, with a Permanent Commission, and joined 54 Squadron on the 19th. Barnett joined 6 Squadron in Egypt on November 1 1932. He went to the RAF Depot at Aboukir in July 1935. In the Coronation Honours List, Barnett was made an MBE (11.5.37), for operations in Palestine from April to October 1936. After returning to the UK, he went to the A&AEE at Martlesham Heath on August 16 1938. When the CO of the newly-formed 234 Squadron was badly injured in a car accident on November 2 1939, Barnett took command on the 6th. He did not fly very often and after an interview with the AOC of 10 Group on August 12 1940 he relinquished his command next day. Barnett joined 111 Squadron at Dyce, as a supernumerary Squadron Leader. He resigned his commission on August 11 1941 and left the RAF. After the war Barnett worked in Kenya and died on January 2 1970.

PO (AAF) 17.8.37 FO (AAF) 17.2.39 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

LESLIE DENIS BARNES 60325 Sgt Pilot British

504 Squadron

615, 607 and 257 Squadrons

Barnes joined the RAFVR in August 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741915). Called up on September 1 1939, he was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on October 9, for No 42 Course. Having completed his flying training, he joined 103 Squadron in April 1940, flying Battles.

PO 19.12.31 FO 9.6.33 FL 7.9.36 SL 1.6.39

He volunteered for Fighter Command and was posted to 615 Squadron, joining it at Prestwick on September 4 1940. He moved to 607 Squadron at Tangmere on the 21st. On October 4 he shared in the probable destruction of a He111. Barnes went to 257 Squadron at North Weald on October 20 and took part in the engagement with the Italians on November 11 1940, probably destroying a Fiat CR 42. Commissioned in January 1941, Barnes was with 46 Squadron when it sailed for the Middle East in late May, in the carrier HMS Argus. At Gibraltar the pilots and aircraft were transferred on to HMS Ark Royal and Furious. They flew off to Hal Far, Malta on June 6 and were absorbed into 126 Squadron. Barnes was appointed a Flight Commander on January 1 1942. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on February 22, destroyed two Mc 200s in a combat over Ta Kali on June 27 and shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 over Luqa on December 30. Barnes was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant.

RUPERT VICTOR BARON 78741 PO Air Gunner British

219 Squadron

Baron, of Highbury, London, volunteered for aircrew duties. He was commissioned in April 1940, as a direct-entry Air Gunner. He was on No 12 Air Gunner Course at 7 B&GS, Manby from May 6. With training completed, Baron joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on June 1. He was detached to CGS on July 12 for a course, rejoining 219 on August 9 1940. On October 12 Baron was flying, as crew, in Blenheim L 1113 on a routine night patrol. Unexpected engine vibration was experienced and the pilot, Pilot Officer G M Head throttled back. This action caused a high speed stall. Both men baled out but Baron’s parachute failed to open. The aircraft crashed at Court Lodge Farm, Ewhurst. Baron was 40. He is buried in Sittingbourne and Milton Cemetery.

PO 15.1.41 FO 15.1.42 FL 15.1.43

APO 12.4.40 PO 1.6.40

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RONALD GEORGE VICTOR BARRACLOUGH 66487 Sgt Pilot British 266 Squadron

squadron ORB on August 17, when he flew his first operational sortie. He was still with 25 on November 1 1940. Barrett was awarded the DFM (29.12.42), serving as a Flight Sergeant with 207 Squadron at Langar, operating in Lancasters. He was with 83 Squadron at Wyton, when he was shot down and captured on March 11 1943. He was in Stalag 357 in 1945 (PoW No 886). Barrett was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Warrant Officer.

Barraclough joined the RAFVR in January 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741221). He was one of fifty VR Airmen u/t Pilots, who were offered six months continuous flying training with the regular RAF. He went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on July 15 1939. With the course completed, he joined 266 Squadron at Sutton Bridge from 2 FTS on December 16 1939.

NORMAN PERCY GERALD BARRON 88649 Sgt Pilot British 236 Squadron

He damaged a Ju 88 on August 12 1940, damaged a He 111 on September 11 and destroyed a Do 17 on December 26. Commissioned in May 1941, he left the squadron on July 19 1941. Barraclough commanded 137 Squadron on the Continent from December 1944 until March 1945. He left the RAF after the war. PO 1.5.41 FO 25.11.41

Born in 1918, Barron joined the RAFVR in January 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741255) and trained at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield. He was one of a group of fifty VR u/t Pilots who were offered six months continuous flying training with the regular RAF. He went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on July 15 1939 and with training completed, he joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on December 16 1939.

FL 25.11.42

STANLEY MICHAEL BARRACLOUGH 46029 Sgt Pilot British 92 Squadron

Barron served with 236 throughout the Battle of Britain. He was commissioned in November 1940 and on the 30th of the month he was involved in combat with a Blohm and Voss floatplane. His Blenheim was damaged and two of his crew wounded. Posted away on October 7 1941, Barron went to 19 Group, firstly to a drogue-towing unit at Roborough and later to an Armament Practice Camp at Carew Cheriton, where he flew Lysanders. On August 1 1942 Barron was posted to 172 Squadron at Chivenor, flying Leigh-Light Wellingtons on anti-submarine work. He went with a squadron detachment to Malta on June 9 1943. In early September he was sent to 22 PTC, Almaza, Cairo, from where he was posted to Southern Rhodesia. After an instructors’ course at 33 FIS, Norton, Barron went to 22 SFTS, Thornhill on January 9 1944. He instructed there on Harvards until returning to the UK in September 1945. Barron spent a further year instructing, firstly at 17 FTS, Spitalgate and then at 19 FTS, Cranwell before he was released in April 1947. He joined KLM in January 1948 and flew with the airline until 1978.

Barraclough was born in Livingstone, Northern Rhodesia on April 2 1917. His father was a senior civil servant. When Barraclough was three he returned to the UK with his mother and lived at Shoreham, Sussex, where his grandfather was vicar. They later moved to Chichester. After attending local schools, Barraclough went to the Training Ship Mercury at Hamble. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice (566190), in September 1932 and passed out in August 1935, as a Metal Rigger. He later applied for pilot training and was remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot on June 12 1939. His rank was Corporal when he did his ab initio course at 2 E&RFTS, Filton in July/August 1939. Barraclough went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on August 21, on No 40 Course. He completed training on February 17 1940 and was with 92 Squadron by mid-May. On May 23 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and a Bf 110 in the Boulogne/Dunkirk area. On July 10 he shared a Ju 88 and on August 14 he shared another. He flew his final sortie with 92 on September 3. He was then probably posted to CFS for a course, since he was a flying instructor at 15 FTS, Lossiemouth in February 1941. Commissioned in June 1941, Barraclough stayed in the RAF after the war, re-forming 604 Squadron in 1946, retiring on May 28 1958 as a Squadron Leader. He was a graduate of RAF Staff College and a Qualified A1 Instructor, Central Flying School. Barraclough worked in whisky exports amd as an administrator for a construction company. He died on April 27 2006.

PO 27.11.40

FL 27.11.42

HECTOR JACK RAYMOND BARROW 745659 Sgt Pilot British 43, 607 and 213 Squadrons Barrow, from Isleworth, Middlesex, joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1 and with training completed, he joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere in late July 1940.

PO 28.6.41 FO 28.6.42 FL 28.6.43 SL 1.8.47

He was attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge from August 3. After converting to Hurricanes, Barrow rejoined 43 on the 24th. He flew his first operational sortie on August 29. Barrow was detached to 607 Squadron, also at Tangmere, on September 15 and he flew an operational sortie on that day. He joined 213 Squadron, then also at Tangmere, on the 20th. On September 27 Barrow destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged another and on the 30th he damaged a Bf 110. He was reported ‘Missing’, following a Wing patrol with 602 Squadron over Tangmere on November 28. His aircraft, Hurricane V 6691, probably went into the sea and Barrow’s body was washed up on the French coast. He is buried in Colleville-sur-Mer churchyard, France. Barrow was 21.

PHILIP HENRY BARRAN 90323 FO Pilot British 609 Squadron Born at Chapel Allerton, Leeds on April 20 1909, Barran joined 609 Squadron, AAF in early 1937. He was then a trainee mining engineer and manager of a brickworks at a colliery owned by his family. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander early in 1939, called to full-time service on August 24 1939 and made up to Acting Flight Lieutenant on October 14 1939. Barran was detached to RAF Northolt on November 27 for a ten-day Air Fighting course. He went to RAF Farnborough on April 9 1940 for an oxygen course and on the 17th to RAF Turnhouse for instruction in Controller duties. Barran was to become one of the earliest casualties in the Battle of Britain. On July 11 1940 his aircraft, Spitfire L 1069, was severely damaged in a morning combat with Bf 109s of III/JG 27 over a convoy off Portland. He tried to reach the coast but was forced to bale out five miles off Portland Bill. He was picked up, wounded and badly burned, but he died before reaching land. Barran was 31. He is buried in Lawnswood Cemetery, Leeds.

NATHANIEL JOHN MERRIMAN BARRY 72514 FO Pilot South African 3 and 501 Squadrons Barry came from Keerweder, Franschhoek, South Africa. In 1938 he was an Engineering undergraduate at Pembroke College, Cambridge. He joined the University Air Squadron and was commissioned in the RAFVR in November 1938. Called up at the outbreak of war, Barry completed his flying training and was then posted as ADC to Air Vice Marshal de Crespigny. He requested a posting to fighters and was with 3 Squadron in June 1940. On September 26 Barry joined 501 Squadron at Kenley. Four days later he made a forced-landing at Pembury, in Hurricane L 1657, following a combat with Bf 109s over Maidstone. On October 7, Barry was shot down by a Bf 109 over Wrotham. He baled out but fell dead at Wilmington. His aircraft crashed at Lane End, Darenth. Barry was 22 years old. He is buried in the churchyard of St Andrew’s, Finghall, Yorkshire.

PO (AAF) 20.4.37 FO (AAF) 20.10.38 FO 24.8.39

WILLIAM ERIC BARRETT 751810 Sgt Air Gunner British

FO 27.11.41

25 Squadron

Barrett enlisted in the Aircraft Crew Section of the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. He was called up on September 1 and with training completed at a B&GS he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 21 1940 for further training on Blenheims. He joined 25 Squadron at Martlesham Heath in August and is first mentioned in the

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squadron went to North Africa in November. Bartlett destroyed a Ju 88 on January 10 1943. The squadron moved to Monte Corvino, Italy in October. Bartlett was posted away in January 1944 and he was awarded the DSO (3.3.44). Bartlett was appointed military commander of the island of Vis, in the Adriatic, where an airfield had been constructed. He was given the US Legion of Merit, for organising the rescue of USAAF crews, who had ditched in the Adriatic Sea. In 1945 Bartlett became Personal Staff Officer to the AOC Middle East. In 1965 he was one of the Battle of Britain veterans who took part in Sir Winston Churchill’s funeral procession. He retired from the RAF on June 20 1966 as a Group Captain.

On May 26 2007 a memorial, provided by the Shoreham Aircraft Museum, was unveiled at the site of Barry’s crash. PO (RAFVR) 15.11.38 PO 3.9.39 FO 15.5.40

PATRICK PETER COLUM BARTHROPP 41542 FO Pilot British 602 Squadron Barthropp was born in Dublin on November 9 1920. He was educated at St Augustine’s Abbey School, Ramsgate; St Joseph’s College, near Market Drayton and Ampleforth College, North Yorkshire, after which he went to Rover on an engineering apprenticeship.

PO 31.7.41 FO 11.5.42

FL 31.7.43

SL 30.4.44

SL 1.9.45 WC 1.7.53 GC 1.1.60

ANTHONY CHARLES BARTLEY 41816 PO Pilot British 92 Squadron

As a candidate for a short service commission, he began his elementary flying at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham on October 31 1938, as a pupil pilot. After a short induction course at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, he was posted to 7 FTS, Peterborough on January 31 1939 and completed his training in late July. After a month at No 1 Armament Training Camp, Catfoss, Barthropp went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum on the day the war started. On October 9 1939 he was posted to 613 (AC) Squadron at Odiham. Barthropp volunteered for Fighter Command in August 1940. On the 21st he was sent to 7 OTU, Hawarden, to convert to Spitfires, and on September 8 he joined 602 Squadron at Westhampnett. On the 21st he damaged a Do 17, on the 27th shared a He 111 and on October 2 shared a Ju 88. Barthropp joined 610 Squadron on January 7 1941 and on February 5 he went to 91 Squadron at Hawkinge. On April 27 Barthropp damaged a Do 17, on June 4 he probably destroyed a Bf 109, on the 9th he shot down a Bf 109 and on August 17 he shot down one Bf 109 and damaged another. On August 24 1941 Barthropp rejoined 610 Squadron, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. He was awarded the DFC (26.9.41) and posted to 61 OTU, Heston on October 23, as an instructor. He returned to operations on May 15 1942, joining 122 Squadron at Hornchurch. Two days later, on a Boston escort-operation, he was shot down over Audruicq, near St Omer, baled out and was captured on landing. From June 1942 until his release on May 2 1945, near Lübeck, Barthropp was in several PoW camps, (PoW No 759), including Stalag Luft 3. After the war, in early September 1945, he was sent to Norway, to locate graves of shotdown airmen and confirm their identities. On January 2 1946 Barthropp began a course at the Empire Test Pilots’ School, Cranfield, followed by a posting on May 23 to ‘A’ Fighter Test Squadron at the Aeroplane and Armament Experimental Establishment at Boscombe Down. In mid-1948 he was posted to HQ Fighter Command at Bentley Priory, as Ops Day. In March 1952 Barthropp went to RAF Waterbeach as Wing Commander Flying. In 1953 he led a formation of twenty-four Meteors in the Coronation Review Flypast. In March 1954 he went to Air HQ Hong Kong, as Staff Officer i/c Admin, in April 1955 to RAF Honiley, to command, in March 1957 to RAF Coltishall, as Wing Commander i/c Admin. He was awarded the AFC (10.6.54) for his work at Waterbeach. Barthropp retired on December 28 1957 as a Squadron Leader. He then started, what later became, a very successful chauffeur-driven car hire business in London. He died on April 16 2008.

The son of a District Judge, Bartley was born in Dacca, Bengal on March 28 1919. He was educated at Stowe School and learned to fly at the West Malling Flying Club in 1938. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and did his elementary flying at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell from January 23 1939, as a pupil pilot. Bartley went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on April 1 and he was posted to 13 FTS, Drem on the 15th. With his training completed, Bartley was posted to 92 Squadron at Tangmere on October 22 but went directly from 13 FTS to a Blenheim conversion course at RAF Hendon, on attachment from 92. He joined the squadron on November 20 1939. The squadron began to convert to Spitfires in March 1940. On May 23 Bartley claimed a Bf 109 and a Bf 110 shot down over Dunkirk, on the 24th two Bf 110s damaged and on June 2 four He 111s damaged. On July 10, when 92 was at Pembrey, Bartley may have shared in the destruction of a Ju 88. On September 8 the squadron moved to Biggin Hill. On the 14th Bartley damaged a Do 17 and a Bf 109, on the 15th he shot down a Do 17 and probably a second, on the 18th another Do 17 and on the 27th he claimed a Ju 88. He was awarded the DFC (25.10.40), the citation crediting him with at least eight enemy aircraft destroyed. On November 1 1940 Bartley shared a Bf 109, claimed two more on the 5th and 15th and shot down a He 111 on February 3 1941. He was posted to 74 Squadron in March 1941, as a Flight Commander. It was not a happy posting and he left the squadron in May, to go to 56 OTU, Sutton Bridge, moving soon afterwards to 53 OTU, Heston. In June he served briefly at 61 OTU, as an instructor. In July he was posted to Vickers-Supermarine as a production test pilot. Bartley returned to operations in February 1942, as a Flight Commander with 65 Squadron at Debden. On April 27 he damaged a FW 190 on a sweep over France. In early May he took command of 65 after the CO was killed. In July 1942 he went to CGS, Sutton Bridge for a course and in August he was given command of 111 Squadron at Kenley. The squadron was destined for overseas and on October 20 sailed for Gibraltar. Bartley led the squadron off on November 11 and flew to Algiers, moving to Bone three days later. On the 16th he claimed a Mc 202, on the 25th two Ju 87s probably destroyed, on the 29th and December 4 two Bf 109s and on the 28th one Bf 109 shot down and another damaged. In mid-January 1943 Bartley was posted from the squadron and on the 29th he left Gibraltar, in a Liberator, for the UK. Following the loss of two engines, the aircraft made a crash-landing on a Welsh airfield. Bartley was awarded a Bar to the DFC (16.2.43) and was posted in May to HQ 83 Group, Redhill, to help train squadrons in ground attack and army support. In early October he sailed for America, for a course at the Command and General Staff School at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, moving in February 1944 to the School of Air Tactics at Orlando, Texas. After returning to Britain in the Queen Elizabeth in April, he was posted, as Liaison Officer, to the 70th Fighter Wing of the US Ninth Air Force. On October 24 1944 he went to RAF Transport Command, to set up staging posts in Europe. Bartley volunteered for service in the Far East and sailed from Liverpool on the Mauretania on July 3 1945. He reached Sydney on August 8 and was posted a week later to the Palau Islands, to set up a Transport Command staging post. He requested repatriation, was granted leave, and returned home in a DC 4, which was returning to England for a major overhaul. On November 28 1945 Bartley married film actress Deborah Kerr. After release from the RAF in 1946, he joined Vickers Armstrong as a test pilot and sales executive. Bartley died in April 2001.

APO 14.1.39 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.44 SL 1.8.47

LEONARD HAROLD BARTLETT 102959 Sgt Pilot British 17 Squadron Bartlett, born in Muswell Hill, Middlesex on June 20 1916, joined the RAFVR in May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745808). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 1 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 17 Squadron at Debden on July 15. On August 21 Bartlett shared in the destruction of a Ju 88, on September 5 he shared a He111 and on the 19th he shared a Ju 88. On October 28 he damaged a Do 17, on November 8 he destroyed a Ju 87 and probably a second and on the 11th he shot down a Ju 87 and probably another. On March 17 1941 Bartlett was shot down over Chiddingly, Sussex, in Hurricane Z 2704. He baled out. The aircraft crashed at Stream Farm. Commissioned in July 1941, Bartlett was posted to 137 Squadron at Matlask in February 1942. On July 6 he damaged a Ju 88 off Yarmouth in a Whirlwind. In September 1942 he was given command of 253 Squadron at Hibaldstow. The

APO 1.4.39 PO 21.10.39 FO 21.10.40 FL 21.10.41 SL 1.7.45

ANTHONY RICHARD HENRY BARTON 81623 PO Pilot British 32 and 253 Squadrons Barton, of Oakleigh Park, Middlesex entered Royal Naval College, Dartmouth, as a cadet. He graduated on May 1 1931 and went into the RN Executive Branch as a midshipman. Promoted to Sub-Lieutenant in September 1935, he was granted a temporary commission in the RAF (30104) on May 17 1936, for service with the FAA, with the rank of Flying Officer and he was posted to No 1 FTS, Leuchars.

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December 1942 he went to HQ 9 Group for Air Staff duties, as a Wing Commander. Barton served in more non-flying staff appointments, although he did fly a few Mustang sorties in 1945. He was made an OBE (14.6.45) and remained in the RAF. He retired on February 27 1959, as a Wing Commander, and returned to Canada to live in 1965. He died in 2010.

On August 24 1937 he went to RAF Gosport, as a supernumerary and on October1 he joined 823 (Torpedo Spotter-Reconnaissance) Squadron. Barton relinquished his temporary RAF commission on July 26 1939 and went to the FAA in September. He was on HMS Warspite in December 1939; with HMS St Angelo, a depot ship at Malta in February 1940; back on Warspite in April and May and in June he was with HMS Daedalus. Barton’s RN commission was terminated on July 5 1940. He was commissioned in the RAFVR, as a Pilot Officer, and arrived at 6 OTU on July 6. After converting to Hurricanes he joined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on August 3. On the 11th he destroyed a Bf 109 and next day he was shot down, in Hurricane N 2596, in a combat over Dover, crashing near Hawkinge. Two days later he made a forced-landing at Hawkinge, after being attacked by Bf 109s. On August 16 he destroyed two Bf 109s, on the 18th a Ju 88, on the 24th Barton damaged a Bf 109 and on the 25th he shared in destroying a Hs 126. Barton was posted to 253 Squadron at Kenley on September 10. Next day he shared in the destruction of three Do17s and on the 15th he claimed a Do 17 shot down over the Thames Estuary. His aircraft, Hurricane V 6698, sustained damage in the engagement which necessitated a forced-landing at Hawkinge. On September 20 Barton was shot down and his Hurricane, R 2686, crashed and burned out. He was severely wounded and admitted to Ashford Hospital. On October 5, after discharge from the hospital, he was posted to RAF Kenley as non-effective sick and he did not return to operational flying until February 1941. Barton was later posted to 124 Squadron at Castletown, as a Flight Commander. He went to 126 Squadron in Malta in March 1942, flying the squadron’s first Spitfire off the carrier HMS Eagle on the 29th. On April 2 Barton damaged a Ju 88, on the 9th damaged two more, on the 22nd he destroyed a Ju 87 and probably another, on the 24th claimed a Ju 87 destroyed, shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 and damaged another and on the 30th damaged another Ju 88. In May 1942 Barton took command of 126 Squadron. He damaged a Mc 202 on the 9th and got probable Bf 109s on the 10th and 11th and on the 14th he destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another. He had been awarded the DFC (10.4.42) and then a Bar (7.7.42). Barton was posted back to the UK in August 1942. He was killed in a collision on the runway on April 4 1943, whilst serving as a Squadron Leader instructor at 53 OTU, Llandow. He was 29 years old. He is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Totteridge, Hertfordshire.

APO 23.3.36 PO 27.1.37 FO 27.10.38 FL 3.9.40

JINDRICH BARTOS 83220 PO Pilot Czechoslovakian

312 Squadron

Bartos was born on November 16 1911 at Lugansk, Ukraine. He joined the Military Academy at Hranice for his basic military training then transferred to the Military Aviation Academy at Prostejov for pilot training. He qualified as a field pilot in 1935 and then served with the Second Air Regiment at Prague-Kbely. Following the German occupation of Czechoslovakia in March 1938 Bartos was dismissed from the Czechoslovak Air Force, which was disbanded. Bartos escaped to Poland and then sailed from Gdynia to France where he was required to join the French Foreign Legion for five years, with an assurance that, should war be declared, he would be able to transfer to a French military unit. War having been declared Bartos was, on October 9 1939, transferred to CIC, Chartres, for retraining on French equipment which he completed on May 11 1940. He was posted to GC I/3 at Cannes, Maux-Esbly which was equipped with Dewoitine D.520 aircraft. Due to the rapid advance of the invading German Army, the unit moved quickly, on the following day, to Wex-Thuisy in north eastern France. On June 3, during the Battle of France, he damaged a He 111 over Paris, but, in the fight, his D.520 was shot down. He suffered light injuries in the resulting crash landing. Two weeks later the unit flew to Oran, Algeria, to avoid capture by the Germans. Bartos and other Czechoslovak airmen were released from French service and made their way to Casablanca, where they boarded a ship bound for Gibraltar. Here they transferred to the David Livingstone which took them to Cardiff where they arrived on August 5 1940. Bartos enlisted in the RAFVR and was commissioned in August 1940 for the duration of hostilities. He joined 312 Squadron at Duxford from the Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford on September 5 1940. He converted to Hurricanes on the squadron which moved to Speke, with a detachment at Penrhos, on September 26 1940. Bartos was promoted to Flying Officer on January 9 1941. On February 13 1941, whilst practising dog-fighting with Sgt Votruba, near Talagre, Prestatyn, Bartos’s Hurricane I (V 6885) was seen to go into a dive at about 5000 ft and, with a diving turn, crashed into the ground. Bartos was 29 and was buried, on February 18 1941, in Section 11 of West Derby Cemetery, Liverpool, in a joint grave with another Czech pilot, Sergeant Otto Hanzlicek (grave 392).

Midshipman 1.1.31 Acting Sub-Lt 1.5.34 Sub-Lt 9.9.35 FO 17.5.36 Lt (RN) 16.11.36 PO 6.7.40 FO 6.7.4 FL 30.7.42

ROBERT ALEXANDER BARTON 37664 FL Pilot Canadian 49 Squadron Barton was born in Kamloops, British Columbia on June 7 1916. He was a candidate for an RAF short service commission in 1936 and began his ab initio training on January 27, as a pupil pilot. Having been accepted, he moved on to 9 FTS, Thornaby on April 4.

PO 17.8.40 FO 9.1.41

ERIC GORDON BARWELL 77454 PO Pilot British 264 Squadron

With training completed, Barton joined 41 Squadron at Catterick on October 11 1936 and remained with it until posted to 249 Squadron at Church Fenton on its reformation on May 16 1940, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. He was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on the 24th. The squadron moved south to Boscombe Down on August 1. On the 15th Barton claimed a Bf 110 shot down and another damaged, on the 24th a Bf 109 shared, on September 2 a Do 17 shared, on the 11th a He 111 damaged, on the 15th two Do 17s probably destroyed, on the 18th a He 111 damaged and on the 27th a Bf 110 destroyed. After 249’s CO, Squadron Leader J Grandy was wounded on September 6 Barton led the squadron on operations for the remainder of the Battle of Britain. On October 29 he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged two more, on November 7 probably destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 11th shot a bomber down into the sea, probably an Italian BR 20. Barton was awarded the DFC (20.10.40) and was decorated by the King at Duxford in January 1941. He had been promoted to Acting Squadron Leader and given command of 249 on December 13 1940. On a convoy patrol on February 4 1941, Barton destroyed a Bf 110 and shared a second, his final victories in the UK. In mid-April 249 Squadron re-equipped with Hurricane IIs and in early May sailed from Liverpool in the carrier HMS Furious. At Gibraltar 249’s aircraft were transferred to HMS Ark Royal and on May 21 1941 they were flown off the carrier and, after some mishaps, eventually all reached Malta safely. The squadron was very successful over the next few months, with Barton destroying a SM 79 at night on June 3, a BR 20 at night on June 8, an Mc 200 on July 17 and another on the 25th, a probable Mc 200 and another damaged on September 4, a shared SM 81 on October 19 and an Mc 202 on November 22. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (31.10.41) and posted away for a rest on December 8 1941. In December 1941 Barton was posted to 52 OTU, Aston Down as OC Training. In

Born on August 6 1913 in Clare, Suffolk, Barwell was educated at Wellingborough School. He worked in the family business near Cambridge and in July 1938 he joined the RAFVR (741745), doing his elementary flying at 22 E&RFTS, Cambridge. Called up at the outbreak of war, Barwell was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on October 8 1939. He completed his training, was commissioned on December 12 and joined 264 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on the 21st. Barwell was sent to 11 Group Fighter Pool, St Athan on the 31st and after converting to Defiants, he rejoined 264 on February 5 1940.On May 12 1940 he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 and took part in the successful actions of the squadron over Dunkirk, destroying a Bf 110 and two Ju 87s on May 29 and a Bf 109 and a He 111 on the 31st. In the latter engagement, Barwell was hit by return fire and turned for home but was unable to maintain height and landed on the sea between two destroyers, some five miles from Dover. The aircraft broke up and Barwell and his gunner, Pilot Officer Williams, who had been knocked unconscious in the crash, were thrown into the sea. Barwell held up Williams until they were rescued. Credited with the destruction of a Bf 109 on August 24 1940, flying with Sergeant A Martin, Barwell was awarded the DFC (11.2.41). During the night of April 10/11 1941, again with Martin Barwell shot down a He 111 and probably a second. Promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on July 1 1941, he was posted to the newlyformed 125 Squadron at Colerne, as a Flight Commander. He took command of the

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On September 27 1940 he shared a Ju 88, on October 4 and 18 he damaged two more and on December 12 he shared in destroying a Bf 109. 229 Squadron was posted to the Middle East in May 1941 and sailed in HMS Furious. The pilots flew six Hurricanes off to Malta on May 21and after refueling they flew on to Mersa Matruh, Egypt. On arrival, Bary was attached to 274 Squadron in the Western Desert and on June 3 he destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 17th damaged a Ju 88. Bary was temporarily attached to the Ferry Pool at Takoradi, until September 1 1941, when 229 was brought together again and it began night-defence duties in the Mersa Matruh area. In early October 1941 Bary was posted to 250 Squadron at Sidi Heneish, as a Flight Commander. On November 20 he destroyed a Bf 109 and probably a Ju 87, on December 4 he probably destroyed a Bf 109, on the 5th damaged another, on the 9th shared a Bf 110 and on the 24th he destroyed a Ju 52 on the ground. He was awarded the DFC (7.4.42) and soon afterwards went to No 1 Middle East Training School at El Ballah, as an instructor. Bary took command of 80 Squadron at Bu Amoud, Libya on January 23 1943. In midJune he was given command of 239 Kittyhawk fighter-bomber wing, which he took to Malta on July 9 to take part in the invasion of Sicily on the following day. The Allies invaded Italy on September 3 1943 and 239 Wing flew in support of the Army, based initially in Sicily and later in Italy. In late January 1944, tour-expired, Bary returned to the UK. He was posted to the Fighter Leaders’ School at Milfield for a course and on July 27 he was appointed an instructor there. He later joined the staff of the Central Fighter Establishment at Milfield. Bary returned to operations, when he flew to Naples in December 1944 to take command of 244 Wing, Desert Air Force, flying in support of the Eighth Army. On April 12 1945 he took off with two Spitfires of 92 Squadron, to make a close-support bombing attack on a target NE of Imola. On reaching the area, Bary dived to drop his two 500 lb bombs. At somewhere between 4000 and 5000 feet, his aircraft exploded and disintegrated. There was no flak, no enemy aircraft were seen and it is assumed that the explosion was caused by a faulty fuse detonated when the bombs were released. Bary’s body was recovered and he is buried in the British Empire Cemetery at Faenza. He was awarded the DSO (12.2.46), with effect from the day prior to his death. The citation described him as ‘an outstanding Wing Leader’. Bary was 29.

squadron in December 1941 and held it until February 1942, when it became a Wing Commander post. The squadron began to receive Beaufighters from February 1942 and during the night of July 1/2 Barwell damaged a Do 217 near Cardiff. On September 6 he was posted to HQ 10 Group as Ops Night. Barwell returned to 125 Squadron, then at Fairwood Common, on March 31 1943, again as a Flight Commander. The Squadron re-equipped with Mosquitos from February 1944. Barwell shot down two Ju 88s during the nights of April 23/24 and June 24/25 and on August 10 1944 he shot down a V 1 flying bomb over the sea. On completing his tour, Barwell was awarded a Bar to the DFC (15.8.44). He was posted to the Fighter Interception Unit on August 18. A month later he went to the Main HQ 2nd TAF, as an Acting Wing Commander. He moved to 148 Wing on April 4 1945, as Wing Commander Flying, and took command of 264 Squadron at Rheine, Germany in late June. The squadron was disbanded there on August 25 and Barwell left the RAF on September 2 1945 as a Wing Commander. Barwell died on December 12 2007. He was the younger brother of Group Captain P R Barwell. PO 10.12.39 FO 10.12.40 FL 10.12.41 SL 20.12.44

PHILIP REGINALD BARWELL 22062 WC Pilot British 242 Squadron Born on July 2 1907 at Knowle Warwickshire, Barwell went to Perse and Wellingborough Schools. He was granted a short service commission in the RAF in September 1925 and posted to 19 Squadron at Duxford, under instruction, to gain his flying badge. On September 9 1929 Barwell went to a staff job at CFS, Upavon and on August 5 1930 he was posted to the Home Aircraft Depot, Henlow for an engineering course. With this completed, he went to the Aircraft Depot, Hinaidi, Iraq. Barwell was granted a Permanent Commission on September 1 1931. On June 1 1933 Barwell moved to the engineer section at Hinaidi, on the staff of Iraq Command. He returned to Britain in late 1934 and on January 7 1935 he was posted to CFS, Upavon as an instructor. Barwell took command of 46 Squadron at Digby on January 4 1937 and led it until October 28 1939. One of his last operational sorties with 46 was on October 21, when he led a flight of six Hurricanes to intercept German seaplanes approaching a British convoy, some thirty miles out. Barwell shot down a He 115 and shared in the destruction of a second. For this action he was awarded the DFC (28.11.39). In November 1939 Barwell was posted to command RAF Sutton Bridge, as a Wing Commander. He moved to HQ 12 Group, Watnall on June 14 1940, as Wing Commander Ops, and whilst there he flew three operational sorties with 242 Squadron on October 5 from Coltishall, in Hurricane R 4115, thus qualifying for the Battle of Britain clasp. On October 21 1940 Barwell was posted to HQ Fighter Command for Air Staff duties. He took command of RAF Biggin Hill in June 1941, as a Group Captain, and sometimes flew as No 2 to Sailor Malan on fighter sweeps. On July 4 1941 he shared a probable Bf 109 with Malan and on the 11th he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another. One day in early 1942 Barwell’s engine cut out on take-off and he crash-landed just beyond the runway and broke his back. Although he continued to fly, he took no part in operations whilst in his plaster cast. On July 1 1942 Barwell, in company with Squadron Leader R W Oxspring, took off from Biggin Hill an hour before sunset on a standing patrol between Dungeness and Beachy Head. Control at Biggin Hill warned of unidentified aircraft in the area, they proved to be two Spitfires from Tangmere, flown by inexperienced pilots. Barwell, apparently oblivious to the warning, was attacked by one and shot down into the sea. Although Oxspring saw him trying to open his hood, Barwell did not bale out. Despite intensive searches, no trace of him was found. Barwell’s body was later washed up on the French coast and he is buried in the Calais Canadian War Cemetery. He was the elder brother of E G Barwell.

APO 1.4.39 PO 23.10.39 FO 23.10.40 FL 23.10.41 SL 16.10.43

HENRY BASHFORD 141156 Sgt Observer

British

248 Squadron

Bashford joined the RAFVR about September 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742073). He later remustered as a u/t Observer and was called up on September 1 1939. With his training completed, he joined 248 Squadron in May 1940. On the 31st he was attached to No 1 (C) OTU at Silloth and, after training on Blenheims, he rejoined 248 on June 29 at Dyce and served with it throughout the Battle of Britain. Bashford was posted away in July 1941 to 404 (RCAF) Squadron at Skitten, a maritime reconnaissance and coastal strike unit. He served with it until April 1942. Commissioned in January 1943, Bashford was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He joined the RAFVR in September 1948. PO 14.1.43 FO 14.7.43 FL 14.1.44 FO (RAFVR) 27.9.48

FRANCIS BERNARD BASSETT 41982 PO Pilot British 222 Squadron Bassett, of Wembley Park, Middlesex, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his training on March 6 1939, as a pupil pilot.

PO 28.9.25 FO 28.3.27 FL 14.5.30 SL 1.12.36 WC 1.1.40

RONALD EDWARD BARY 41818 PO Pilot New Zealander

He served with 222 Squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. He flew only two operational sorties, on August 30 and September 5 1940. It is not known when he was posted away from 222. In 1942 Bassett was with 152 Squadron. In October it became non-operational, prior to going overseas. It went to Gibraltar and on November 14 1942 took off for Algiers, to take part in the invasion of North Africa. En route, Bassett’s engine failed and he baled out over the sea. His body was never found and he is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 2, Column 1. Bassett was 22.

229 Squadron

Born in New Plymouth on June 9 1915, Bary was employed as a law clerk at the Department of Justice in Palmerston North. He was accepted for an RAF short service commission and left New Zealand on December 16 1938 for the UK. Bary’s training began at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield on January 23 1939, as a pupil pilot. He completed his training at 11 FTS, Shawbury and joined the recently-reformed 229 Squadron at Digby on October 26 1939. Over Dunkirk on June 1 1940, Bary probably destroyed a Ju 87 and on the 27th he shared a Ju 88.

APO 29.4.39 PO 6.11.39

31

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GORDON HERBERT BATCHELOR 86343 PO Pilot British 54 Squadron

IAN NORMAN BAYLES 74327 FO Pilot Australian

Batchelor, of Higham, Kent, joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748532). He was called up on September 1 and with his training completed at RAF College FTS, Cranwell on September 20 1940, he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 23rd. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on October 14 1940.

Born in Melbourne on August 13 1918, Bayles went to England with his parents in 1923 and was educated at Winchester College. He returned to Australia in 1937 but when it was decided that he should read Law, he went back to England to study at Trinity College, Oxford, with the intention of returning to Melbourne to practise.

On October 27 he damaged a Ju 88. Batchelor was still with the squadron, when he was shot down near Lens on a Circus operation on July 9 1941. Batchelor died, as a PoW, on April 15 1942. He is buried in Hamburg Cemetery, Ohlsdorf, Germany. He was 23.

Bayles joined the University Air Squadron on October 19 1938 and then transferred to the RAFVR (754313) in June 1939. He was commissioned in the RAFVR on September 26, completed his flying training at RAF College FTS, Cranwell and joined 152 Squadron at Acklington on April 20 1940. The squadron had recently received its first Spitfires. Bayles was sent to 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 5, to convert to Spitfires. On May 29 he was posted to 249 Squadron at Leconfield but, following pressure from 152’s CO, he rejoined 152 Squadron on June 9 1940. Bayles damaged a Bf 110 on August 13, claimed a Ju 88 destroyed and a He 111 damaged on September 25, damaged a Bf 110 on the 27th and a He 111 on the 30th. He was posted away from 152 on August 18 1941, to instruct. In mid-1942 Bayles took a short gunnery course and was posted to 224 Group in India. He returned to operations on February 5 1943, when he was given command of 135 Squadron at George, operating along the Arakan coast in Hurricanes. Bayles led 135 until November 1943. He commanded 273 Squadron at Maunghnama and later Kyaukpyu from December 16 1944 until April 14 1945, when he was appointed Wing Commander Flying, 902 Wing. He was awarded the DFC (2.10.45). Bayles was posted back to the UK in late 1945. He was released from the RAF in July 1946 and returned to Australia with his family in 1947. He died in August 1998.

PO 21.9.40 FO 14.9.41

LESLIE GORDON BATT 145514 Sgt Pilot British

238 Squadron

Batt was born on November 27 1916 and educated at Bablake School and Coventry Technical College. He was an engineering apprentice at Daimler’s, when he joined the RAFVR in April 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741474). He did his flying at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty. Called up on September 1 1939, Batt was posted to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on October 9 1939, on No 15 Course. A rugby injury caused his transfer to No 16 Course. He went to 10 B&GS, Warmwell on May 10 1940, with the Advanced Training Squadron of 6 FTS, for armament training, the final part of the course. He joined 253 Squadron at Kenley on the 17th and moved to 238 Squadron on May 21. On July 13 Batt shared a Bf 110, on the 21st he shared a Do 17, on August 8 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and on the 13th he destroyed a He 111. On this day he made a forced-landing at Eartham, in Hurricane P 2989, after an attack by a Bf 109 S of the Isle of Wight. Batt went to Egypt with 238 in May 1941 and remained with the squadron until December. In January 1942 he had his first long leave since May 1940, in Cairo, and in February he joined the Aircraft Delivery Unit there. In August 1942 Batt was posted away and returned to the UK in November. He went to 55 OTU, Annan, as an instructor, in early December 1942 and was commissioned from Warrant Officer in March 1943. A return to operations came on August 11 1943, when Batt was posted to 198 Squadron, flying Typhoons from Martlesham Heath. He went for a course to 7 FIS, Upavon on November 24, after which he was posted to 15(P) AFU, Babdown, as an instructor, remaining there until his release in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde. Batt died on February 4 2004.

PO 26.9.39 FO 26.9.40 FL 26.9.41 SL 30.6.45

EDWARD ALAN BAYLEY 741004 Sgt Pilot British

British

32 and 249 Squadrons

Bayley was born in Rye, Sussex on March 27 1911. He was educated at Caterham School and Eastbourne Grammar School for Boys. He went to Canada and was at Agricultural College there in 1929/30. Back in the UK, Bayley ran a silver fox farm. He was later a service engineer for milking machines and then became Manager of Walsall Aerodrome. Bayley joined the RAFVR in December 1937. Having achieved a high standard of proficiency and the required number of flying hours, he was given the chance of six months of training with the RAF. On June 1 1939 Bayley joined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill. Still with the squadron at the outbreak of war, he was taken on to the squadron strength on September 6. He was ordered to RAF Hendon on May 17 1940, for onward posting to France, but he rejoined 32 on May 24 and there is no evidence that he ever served in France. Bayley destroyed a Bf 109 on June 8, shared a Do 17 on July 3, probably destroyed a Bf 110 on the 20th, damaged a Do 17 on August 12, damaged a Bf 110 on the 16th and claimed a Do 17 destroyed and a Bf 110 damaged on August 18. He was posted to 249 Squadron at North Weald on September 17. He was killed on October 10 1940 when his Hurricane, V 7537, crashed at Shades House, Cooling Marsh, during a routine patrol. The cause of the crash is not known and may have been the result of Bayley losing consciousness because of oxygen failure. However, it is more likely that he was shot down. Bayley is buried in St Luke’s Cemetery, Bromley, Kent.

PO 24.3.43 FO 24.9.43 FL 24.3.45

SIDNEY BAXTER 566388 Sgt Pilot

152 Squadron

222 Squadron

Baxter, from Chester le Street, Co Durham was educated at the secondary school there. He joined the RAF as an Aircraft Apprentice in January 1933 and passed out in December 1935, as a Fitter. He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot on March 6 1939 and began his training at 14 FTS, Kinloss on April 13 1939, on No 1 Course. With training completed, Baxter joined 236 Squadron at Stradishall on November 8 1939. He was posted away to 222 Squadron at Duxford on November 25 1939. Over Dunkirk on June 1 1940, Baxter shot down a Bf 110. On September 2 he probably destroyed a Bf 110, damaged another and a Do 17, on the 3rd he again probably destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 11th he destroyed a Ju 88 and probably destroyed a He 111. In the afternoon of September 14 1940 Baxter’s aircraft, Spitfire X 4275, was damaged in combat with Bf 109s. He was killed, attempting to land near Rochford. Baxter was cremated at West End Crematorium, Newcastle-upon-Tyne. He was 23 years old.

DEREK BAYLISS 42183 PO Pilot British

604 Squadron

Bayliss joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 6 1939, as a pupil pilot. With his flying training completed, he joined 601 Squadron at Biggin Hill in late 1939. He was posted away to 604 Squadron at Northolt on February 21 1940. On October 8 Bayliss crashed and wrecked Blenheim L 1281, when he overshot the flare path at Middle Wallop, coming in from a night patrol. He and his crew were unhurt. Bayliss came off flying in 1941 and was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. APO 10.6.39 PO 18.11.39

32

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ERNEST JOHN BAYLISS 581431 Sgt Observer British

Bayne went to 11 Group Pool, St Athan on June 27 1939, as an instructor. The unit moved to Sutton Bridge and became 6 OTU on March 9 1940. Bayne was made a Flight Commander on the 16th. He was posted to 17 Squadron on June 8, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. On July 29 he shared a He 111 on August 25 he claimed a Bf 109, a probable Bf 110 and shared another. On this day Bayne was himself shot down in combat. He baled and was rescued from the sea, unhurt. His Hurricane, V 7407, crashed off Portland. On the 27th Bayne shared another Bf 110, on the 31st claimed a Bf 109, on September 3 shared a Bf 110 and a Do 17, on the 5th claimed a Bf 109, on the 11th a Bf110 and on October 2 he shared a Do 17. On November 8 1940 Bayne led 17 Squadron against a force of heavily-escorted Ju 87s, which were attacking destroyers E of Clacton. In the action he shot down one Ju 87 and probably a second. Bayne claimed a Bf 110 shot down and one damaged on the 17th and a Do 17 damaged on the 21st. He was awarded the DFC (26.11.40). On July 7 1941 Bayne was given command of 132 Squadron, about to be formed at Peterhead with Spitfires. He relinquished this command in February 1942, when he was posted to the Far East. In May Bayne took command of 30 Squadron at Ratmalana, Ceylon and led it until February 1943, when he took over 136 Squadron at Chittagong. On March 15 Bayne claimed an Oscar and on April 14 he probably destroyed another. When his tour ended in May 1943 he was posted away. Bayne was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Wing Commander and he died on May 28 1963.

248 Squadron

Bayliss, of Christchurch, Hampshire, enlisted for four years in the RAF in July 1939, as a direct-entry Airman u/t Observer. He completed his training and joined 248 Squadron at Dyce in May 1940. He was attached to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth on the 31st and after training on Blenheims, he rejoined 248 on June 25 and served with it while it was seconded to Fighter Command during the Battle of Britain. On November 3 1940 Bayliss was a member of the crew of a Blenheim, which was last seen attacking a He 111 over the North Sea. It was presumed to have been shot down by return fire. Also lost were Sergeant W J Garfield, pilot and Sergeant A Kay, Wop/AG. Bayliss is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 11. He was 21 years old.

JAMES BAYLY 39899 Sgt Pilot

New Zealander

111 Squadron

Born at Waitara on March 18 1917, Bayly was educated at New Plymouth Boys’ High School. In 1934 he became an apprentice electrician. On September 1 1938 he joined the Civil Reserve of Pilots and gained his ‘A’ Licence at the Western Federated Aero Club. Called for full-time service at the outbreak of war, Bayly completed his ground training and then went to 2 EFTS, New Plymouth. In late January 1940 he was posted to 2 FTS, Woodbourne and gained his wings on May 2. He sailed for the UK on July 12, in the RMS Rangitane. After arriving on August 27 1940, Bayly went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge next day. He was posted from there to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 11 and, after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 111 Squadron at Drem on the 28th. Bayly was posted from 111 to 4 Ferry Pilot Pool, Kemble on December 11 1940. He became ill in January 1941, spending a month in hospital. In his absence, he was posted to RAF Kemble for a twin-engine conversion course, after which he went to an aircraft ferry and maintenance unit at St Athan. In February 1942 he converted to Hudsons at RAF Oulton and in March he was posted to India. He flew from Cornwall in a Hudson, via Gibraltar, Mersa Matruh, Iraq, Persia and Karachi to Delhi. Bayly’s first job was as a staff pilot at a paratroop training school, flying Vickers Valentias at 70 mph. He returned to operations on January 4 1943, going to 62 (Bomber) Squadron at Cuttack. On the night of March 16, he was detailed to attack Japanese positions at Magwe. The Hudson’s radio was knocked out and the port engine badly damaged by heavy anti-aircraft fire over the target. Bayly decided to switch off the engine and head for Chittagong. The starboard fuel tank ran low and it was impossible to switch to the port one because of damage to the fuel lines. He could not reach Chittagong on the little fuel left and, after some discussion with his crew, it was decided to turn inland and bale out before the now-faltering starboard engine stopped, a forced-landing in the jungle being out of the question. After they landed, it took the four men two days to find each other. Friendly Bengalis helped them to evade Japanese patrols and they eventually reached Chittagong. On return to Cuttack, the subsequent Court of Enquiry found that Bayly had made an error of judgement in switching off the port engine too soon. The finding resulted in Bayly having a heated verbal exchange with his CO and it was recommended that he be reduced in rank and disciplined. At an interview, the AOC told Bayly that he considered the right action had been taken in the Hudson but that Bayly’s insubordination could not be overlooked and he forfeited a year’s seniority. To his relief, Bayly did not return to 62 Squadron but he and his crew were posted to 31 (Transport) Squadron. After a short leave in Calcutta, Bayly remained behind to see the adjutant and his crew went ahead in a Dakota. The aircraft crashed soon after take-off and they were killed. Commissioned in October 1943, Bayly flew Dakotas with 31 until April 9 1944, carrying out supply drops to the Army, often in hazardous conditions. He returned to New Zealand and in September 1944 he became a staff pilot at the School of Navigation. In November Bayly became a Dakota captain, with 40 (Transport) Squadron at Whenuapai. He was released from the RNZAF in June 1945.

APO 24.8.36 PO 29.6.37 FO 29.3.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

DAVID WALTER BAYNE 26077 SL Pilot British

257 Squadron

Born on April 17 1908, Bayne went to Haileybury. He entered RAF College, Cranwell, as a Flight Cadet, in September 1926. On graduation, he was granted a Permanent Commission on December 15 1928 and posted to 12 Squadron at Andover. On January 21 1930 Bayne went overseas to 5 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Quetta, India, flying Bristol Fighters. He moved to 20 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Peshawar on September 1 1933. In 1935 Bayne had a flying accident and lost a leg. He returned to the UK and was non-effective sick at RAF Depot, Uxbridge for a long period. On July 1 1937 Bayne was appointed to the staff at Uxbridge and moved on to the HQ staff at Kenley on August 8 1938. He was Squadron Leader Admin on January 1 1939 and by November 1 1939 he was Sector Controller at Kenley. He was detached to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on January 28 1940 but returned to Kenley three days later. Although he had an artificial leg, he was given the task of forming 257 Squadron at Hendon from May 17 1940. Bayne was posted away on July 22 1940 to HQ Fighter Command but he had flown at least one operational sortie. No details are known of Bayne’s service during the remainder of the war. In 1948 he was Military and Air Attaché in Rio de Janeiro. He retired from the RAF on August 29 1955, as a Group Captain. PO 15.12.28 FO 15.6.30 FL 15.2.35 SL 1.8.38 WC 1.12.40 GC 1.7.43 GC 1.7.47

GEOFFREY THEODORE BAYNHAM 41518 FO Pilot British 234 and 152 Squadrons Baynham was born on December 15 1915 at Dartford, Kent. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 6 1938, as a pupil pilot. Baynham was posted to 4 (C) Ferry Pilot Pool, Kemble from 12 OTU, Benson on June 15 1940. From the Pool, he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 3 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 234 Squadron at St Eval on the 15th. He moved to 152 Squadron at Warmwell on October 9 and rejoined 234 Squadron, then also at Warmwell on December 16 1940. On May 19 1941 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and on July 17 another three, shot down over the Channel. At the end of his operational tour, he was posted to 53 OTU as an instructor. In April 1943 Baynham went overseas, rejoining 152 Squadron, then at Souk el Khemis, Tunisia, as a Flight Commander. On May 8 he shared in destroying a Bf 109 and on July 25 he shot down a Ju 52 and shared another, both over Sicily. Baynham was awarded the DFC (10.9.43). Released from the RAF in 1945, he later went to live in Rhodesia. He moved to South Africa and died in Cape Town in 1990.

PO 19.10.43 FO 19.4.44

ALFRED WILLIAM ALEXANDER BAYNE 39014 FL Pilot British 17 Squadron Bayne attended Malvern College. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 29 1936, as a pupil pilot. On September 5 he went to 10 FTS, Ternhill and after completing the course, he joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on April 24 1937.

APO 14.12.38 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.3.42

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JAMES MICHAEL BAZIN 90281 FL Pilot British 607 Squadron

When he was mobilised on September 1, he had flown almost fifty hours in Tiger Moths at 33 E&RFTS, Whitchurch, Bristol. Beake was posted to 3 ITW, Hastings but did not reach 15 EFTS, Redhill until March 26 1940. Two months later Beake went to 15 FTS, Middle Wallop, finishing the course at its Advanced Training Squadron at Chipping Norton. On August 31 Beake was commissioned and posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield on September 22. After the Battle of Britain, he was with the squadron at various stations, until posted to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill on June 27 1941. He damaged a Bf 109 on September 27. Beake left 92 and went to 601 Squadron at Duxford on December 29 1941. He came off operations in late March 1942 and went to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as an instructor. He did an instructor’s course at 7 FIS, Upavon in April/May 1942, after which he returned to Grangemouth, later moving to Balado Bridge. Returning to operations, Beake joined 193 Squadron, then forming at Harrowbeer, on December 22 1942, as a Flight Commander. He went to RAF Charmy Down on June 10 1943 for a short course at the Fighter Command School of Tactics, afterwards returning to his squadron. On February 8 1944 he destroyed a FW 190. Another short course at the Fighter Leaders’ School, Milfield came in March 1944 and after a short spell at 84 Ground Support Unit at Aston Down, Beake took command of 164 Squadron at Thorney Island on May 30 1944. Beake destroyed a FW 190 on D Day, June 6. The squadron moved to France in midJuly. He was posted back to the Fighter Leaders’ School on September 10 1944, this time as an instructor. He received a Mention in Despatches (8.6.44). Beake was awarded the DFC (5.9.44), the citation stating that he was credited with two enemy aircraft destroyed. He was released from the RAF on January 21 1946 as a Squadron Leader and went to work for an animal feed company.

Born in Kashmir, India on December 2 1913, Bazin was brought up in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. He joined 607 Squadron, AAF at Usworth in May 1935. He flew his first solo on November 11 1935 and he was commissioned in December. He was called for full-time service on August 28 1939. 607 Squadron was ordered to France in November, to join the Air Component of the BEF. On the 13th its Gladiators were flown from Acklington down to Croydon and two days later to Merville. On May 10 1940 Bazin shared a He 111 N of Douai and next day he destroyed another and shared a second near Brussels and on the 14th he destroyed an unidentified enemy aircraft. By this time 607 was equipped with Hurricanes. The squadron suffered heavy losses in the fighting in France and was withdrawn to England, re-assembling at Croydon on May 22. Both its Flight Commanders had been lost and by early June Bazin was commanding ‘B’ Flight, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. He claimed a He 111 probably destroyed on August 15, a Do 17 destroyed and another damaged on September 15 and on the 30th he claimed a Ju 88 shot down and probably a second. Bazin, who had been shot down once in France, crash-landed at Hurn on October 5, when his engine failed, in Hurricane P3668. Bazin was awarded the DFC (25.10.40). Although the citation stated that he had destroyed ten enemy aircraft, most were shot down in France and details are not known. He was posted away from 607 on December 15 1940 to RAF, Catterick, for Ops duties. At some time he served as a Controller in the 14 Group Operations Room at Inverness. He did a flying refresher course in November 1943, a Beam Approach Training course in December and in January 1944 Bazin was posted to16 (Bomber) OTU. He converted to Lancasters at 1660 Conversion Unit and, after Lancaster Finishing School he joined 49 Squadron at Fiskerton in May 1944. In late June he was given command of 9 Squadron at Bardney. By the end of the war, Bazin had carried out twenty-five operational sorties, including a raid on the German battleship Tirpitz. He was released from the RAF in May 1945, as a Wing Commander and was awarded the DSO (21.9.45). Bazin resumed his career as an engineer and rejoined 607 Squadron in November 1946, commanding it from late 1949 until 1951. Bazin died on January 9 1985. He was cremated at Randalls Park, Leatherhead and his ashes were scattered in Tangmere churchyard. PO (AAF) 9.12.35 SL (RAuxAF) 1.10.49

FO (AAF) 9.6.37

FO 24.8.39

FL 3.9.40

PO 31.8.40 FO 31.8.41 FL 31.8.42

FRANCIS VICTOR BEAMISH 16089 WC Pilot Irish 151, 56, 249 and 257 Squadrons Born at Dunmanway, Co Cork on September 27 1903, Beamish was educated at the Coleraine Academical Institute. He entered RAF College, Cranwell, as a Flight Cadet, on September 14 1921. After graduation in August 1923, with a Permanent Commission, he went to 4 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Farnborough on September 18. In January 1925 he was posted to the School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum. Beamish went overseas later in the year and joined 31 Squadron at Ambala on November 18 but stayed only four months before moving to 60 Squadron at Kohat. He was back in the UK in October 1926, for a course at CFS, Wittering. With this completed, he went to 5 FTS, Sealand as an instructor. On September 16 1927 Beamish went back to Cranwell, this time on the staff. He went to Canada on March 22 1929, on exchange with an RCAF officer. When he returned two years later, he was posted to 25 Squadron at Hawkinge, as a Flight Commander. In January 1932 Beamish was appointed as Personal Assistant to the AOC-in-C ADGB at Uxbridge. A year later he went into hospital, suffering from tuberculosis, and its effects caused him to retire on October 18 1933. Desperately unhappy, Beamish got a job as a civilian assistant at 2 FTS, Digby. He returned to Ireland in 1936 and became civilian Adjutant at RAF Aldergrove on May 18. This was a non-flying appointment in Class ‘C’ of the Air Force Reserve. Beamish was reinstated with full category as a Flight Lieutenant on January 27 1937 and was posted to command 2 Armament Training Camp and Met Flight at Aldergrove. His comeback was complete when he was given command of 64 Squadron at Church Fenton on December 8 1937. Beamish was awarded the AFC (1.1.38) for establishing the Met Flight. After a course at RAF Staff College, Andover, he took command of 504 Squadron at Digby on September 13 1939. He returned to Canada in mid-January 1940 on Air Staff duties but, back in the UK, he took over RAF North Weald on June 7 1940. Beamish flew operational sorties with his station squadrons whenever he could. On June 18 he claimed two Bf 109s destroyed, on July 9 a Bf 110 damaged, on the 12th a Do 17 shot down, on August 18 a probable Ju 88, on the 24th a Do 17 damaged and on the 30th two probable Bf 110s. On September 6 Beamish claimed two Ju 87s, on the 11th a probable He 111, on the 15th a share in a He 111 and on the 18th and 27th probable Bf 109s. He damaged a Bf 109 on October 12, probably destroyed one and damaged another on the 25th and probably shot down another on the 30th. Beamish was awarded the DSO (23.7.40) and the DFC (8.11.40). On November 7 1940 Beamish collided with Pilot Officer T F Neil of 249 Squadron whilst on patrol and made a forced-landing at Leeds Abbey. In all his sorties in 1940 he was damaged by enemy action three times, on each occasion getting his aircraft down safely. On November 11 1940, the day the Italians attempted a raid, Beamish got a probable

SL 1.12.41

SYDNEY HOWARTH BAZLEY 90359 FL Pilot British 266 Squadron A native of Southport, Lancashire, Bazley joined 611 Squadron, AAF in early 1937 and was commissioned in April of that year. He was called to full-time service on August 26 1939 and was temporary ‘A’ Flight Commander from September 4 to 26. Bazley was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on January 18 1940 and was made an Acting Flight Lieutenant on the 25th. He was temporarily detached from 611 on February 29 to 266 Squadron at Sutton Bridge and assumed command of ‘B’ Flight there. On March 19 1940 Bazley’s attachment ceased and he went on the 266 Squadron strength posted away from 611. On August 12 Bazley claimed a Bf 110 destroyed, another probably destroyed and another damaged. Four days later his aircraft was set alight in combat and he baled out over Canterbury. The Spitfire, P 9312, is believed to be that which crashed near Wickhambreux. Bazley suffered burns and minor injuries. His next operational sortie was not made until September 11 and on this day he claimed a Do 17 probably destroyed. Still with 266, Bazley was killed in a flying accident on March 2 1941, aged 27. He was cremated at Leicester City Crematorium. PO (AAF) 4.4.37 FO 26.8.39 FL 3.9.40

PERCIVAL HAROLD BEAKE 84923 PO Pilot Canadian 64 Squadron Beake, from Bristol, was born in Quebec in 1917. He was educated at Victoria Park School and Bristol Grammar School. He joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745864).

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Beamont was leading the Wing when he was shot down over France on October 12 1944 and taken prisoner. After being released from the Germans, he was finally released by the Russians on May 21 1945. He formed the first Tempest Wing for service in the Far East but was then appointed to command the Air Fighting Development Squadron at the Central Fighter Establishment. Beamont left the RAF in January 1946. He joined the RAuxAF and commanded 611 Squadron from 1949 to 1951. He went to Gloster Aircraft as No 3 Test Pilot. He left there for de Havilland, to be a demonstration pilot and in May 1947 he moved to English Electric as Chief Test Pilot. In this capacity Beamont established several records in Canberra and P 1 aircraft. In 1955 Beamont was made Manager of Flight Operations and then Special Director of English Electric Aviation in 1960. He became Director of Flight Operations, BAC Preston in November 1965, was made a CBE (1969) and later appointed Director of Flight Operations, Panavia Aircraft. In 1978 he resigned his BAC directorship to concentrate on development of the Tornado. Following the first flight of the production aircraft, Beamont retired on July 31 1979. Beamont was awarded the DFC (US) (14.6.46). He was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant for Lancaster in 1977. He died on November 19 2001.

CR 42 biplane fighter. Two days later he damaged a Bf 109 near Dover. On January 10 1941 he shot down a Bf 109 over the Channel. Beamish was posted to HQ 11 Group on March 17 1941. He did not claim again until August 9 1941, with a probable Bf 109 near Mardyck. He was awarded a Bar to the DSO (25.9.41). On January 25 1942 Beamish went to RAF Kenley to command and again flew with his squadrons. With Wing Commander R F Boyd, he took off on the morning of February 12 ‘to see what was happening on the other side’. After chasing two Bf 109s, they saw part of the German Fleet making its ‘Channel Dash’. The ships had been reported ten minutes earlier by two pilots of 91 Squadron but the news was received with complete incredulity at 11 Group. Beamish’s confirmation was enough to set in motion a series of uncoordinated attacks on the ships. On February 13 Beamish had a share in the destruction of a He 114 over the Channel. On March 9 he claimed a FW 190 destroyed and another on the 26th, as well as a Bf 109. Leading the Kenley Wing and flying with 485 (NZ) Squadron on March 28, Beamish saw a force of Bf 109s and FW 190s a few miles S of Calais. He turned the Wing towards them. In the ensuing engagement, Beamish was seen to be attacked and damaged by a Bf 109. He requested a vector over the R/T and was last seen entering a cloud near Calais. It is presumed that, possibly wounded and perhaps unconscious, he went into the Channel. Victor Beamish was one of that small band of near-legendary figures in the RAF. He was photographed by Cecil Beaton and his portrait was done by both Cuthbert Orde and Eric Kennington. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 64. PO 15.8.23 WC 1.3.40

FO 15.2.25

FL 12.12.28

RONALD BEAMISH 127044 Sgt Pilot British

FL (RAFO) 18.5.33

sFL 27.1.37

APO 1.4.39 PO 21.10.39 FO 21.10.40 FL 21.2.42 SL 17.5.44 SL (AAF) 1.9.47

JOHN MAURICE BENTLEY BEARD 89588 Sgt Pilot British 249 Squadron

SL 1.4.37

Born on December 20 1918 in Shoreham, Sussex, Beard went to Leamington College. He was working for the Midland Bank when he joined the RAFVR in June 1937 (740502). He began his flying at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty on July 10 and trained on Avro Cadets and Hawker Harts.

601 Squadron

Beamish joined the RAFVR in July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (758103). Called up on September 1, he went to No 1 EFTS, Hatfield for his elementary flying training. On May 13 1940 he went to 10 FTS, Ternhill, on No 20 Course.

Called up on September 2 1939, he went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on October 7. With the course completed, he joined 609 Squadron at Drem on December 15. From April 9 to 14 1940 he was detached to Farnborough for an oxygen course. Beard was posted to 249 Squadron on May 14 1940, when it was reforming at Church Fenton. On September 2 Beard damaged a Do 17, on the 6th destroyed a Bf 109, on the 18th a Bf 110, on the 27th two Bf 109s, a Bf 110 and another probable and a Do 17 damaged, on the 28th a Bf 109 destroyed and on October 12 a Bf 109 damaged. He was awarded the DFM (22.10.40). Beard was shot down by Bf 109s over North Kent on October 25. He baled out, wounded, and was admitted to Pembury Hospital. His Hurricane, P 3615, is believed to have crashed on Rankin’s Farm, Linton. He was posted from 249 to SHQ North Weald on November 6 as non-effective sick, date of rejoining 249 not known. Commissioned in December 1940, Beard was sent to RAF White Waltham for ferrying duties on February 6 1941, as 249 prepared to re-equip with Hurricane IIs. Next day he crashed, whilst flying a Spitfire, and went to hospital. On recovery, he went directly to 52 OTU at Debden on April 30 1941, as an instructor. He moved to CGS, Sutton Bridge on March 18 1942, as a founder-member of the Pilot Gunnery Wing there and took charge of the Live Firing Flight. The PGW later moved to Catfoss, to become part of the Central Gunnery School. Beard was a member of the Fighter Command Test Board and he made visits to the Gunnery Research Unit at Exeter, to carry out tests on new pieces of armament equipment. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.45). In May 1945 Beard went to Milfield, to take charge of a Tempest rocket-training unit. In July he moved to RAF Charter Hall to be Station Admin Officer. He was sent to HQ 229 Group, New Delhi in October 1945, as Air Training 2. His last job was to arrange the return of 120 Lease-Lend Expeditors to the Americans at Munich in early 1946. He flew the last one back himself. Beard was released from the RAF, on reaching the UK, as a Squadron Leader. He died on November 21 2000.

With training completed, Beamish arrived at 6 OTU on August 17 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 601 Squadron at Exeter on September 11. He may have moved to 213 Squadron at Tangmere in early November 1940. Beamish was commissioned from Warrant Officer in June 1942. Nothing further is known of his service in the RAF, from which he was released in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 26.6.42 FO 12.12.42 FL 26.6.44

ROLAND PROSPER BEAMONT 41819 FO Pilot British 87 Squadron Beamont was born in Chichester on August 10 1920. Educated at Eastbourne College, he entered the RAF on a short service commission and began as a pupil pilot on January 23 1939. After elementary flying training at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham and a short spell at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, for a short disciplinary course, he completed his training at 13 FTS, Drem. He arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on October 13 1939 and on November 20 Beamont joined 87 Squadron in France. On May 13 1940 he destroyed a Do 17, shot down a Bf 110 on the 14th, destroyed a Do 17 on the 15th, and a Ju 88 on the 17th. The squadron was withdrawn to England on May 22 and after a few days at Debden, it moved to Church Fenton. On July 5 it went south again, to Exeter, and on the 24th Beamont shared in the destruction of a Ju 88, on August 15 he shot down one Bf 110 and probably a second and on the 25th he claimed a Do 17 and a Bf 109 destroyed. Beamont damaged a Ju 88 on September 3 1940, damaged a Bf 110 on October 11 and probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 12th. In early 1941 Beamont was a member of the 87 Squadron Aerobatic team, with Fight Lieutenant D H Ward and Flight Sergeant I J Badger. He damaged a Ju 88 on April 5. He was awarded the DFC (6.6.41) and posted to 79 Squadron, as a Flight Commander. In December 1941, Beamont went to the Special Duties List, reporting to Hawker Aircraft as a test pilot. In May 1942 he went to 56 Squadron at Manston, as a supernumerary Flight Lieutenant. On June 29 he joined 609 Squadron at Duxford. During the night of September 4/5 1942 Beamont damaged a Ju 88 near Dover. He took command of 609 Squadron in October, was awarded a Bar to the DFC (29.1.43) and at the end of his tour, the DSO (6.5.43). A return to test flying came in May 1943 and Beamont went back to Hawker’s but in February 1944 he was asked to form the first Typhoon Wing, No 150, at Castle Camps. On June 18 he destroyed a Bf 109 and on October 2 an FW 190. Between June 16 and August 22 he destroyed 26 V 1 flying bombs and shared 5 more. Beamont was awarded a Bar to the DSO (25.7.44).

PO 18.12.40 FO 18.12.41 FL 18.12.42

ERIC WALTER BEARDMORE C 820 FO Pilot Canadian 1 (RCAF) Squadron Beardmore was born in Berlin on August 29 1911, He was commissioned in the Non-Permanent Active Air Force in Canada on September 1 1937, redesignated the Auxiliary Active Air Force on December 1 1938. He was with No 1 (RCAF) Squadron, when it arrived in the UK on June 20 1940. Beardmore was detached to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on July 10 1940 for a short R/T course. He was shot down in combat over the Thames Estuary on September 18. He baled out, slightly wounded, and he did not return to duty until October 1 and on the 5th he damaged a Bf 109.

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609, gaining his wings in August 1937. He was one of 609’s original Flight Commanders but in January 1939 he handed over to Flying Officer PH Barran, because of business and other commitments. Embodied on August 24 1939, he took ‘B’ Flight over after Barran was killed on July 11 1940. Beaumont served with 609 until he was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 2 1940, as an instructor. The unit was redesignated 57 OTU on November 1 1940. Beaumont was posted to the newly-formed 59 OTU, Turnhouse on December 22 1940. He was made an OBE (1.1.45) and was a Group Captain at 84 Group when he was released in 1945. Beaumont went on to hold a wide range of civilian appointments including Deputy Coroner for Wakefield. He died in September 1997.

He was posted away from the squadron on November 9 1940, en route for Canada, but was not repatriated until March 1941. Beardmore reformed 118 (RCAF) Squadron at Rockcliffe, Ottawa. He was released from the RCAF on October 18 1945 as a Wing Commander. He died on August 23 1966. PO 1.9.37 FO 8.12.38 FL 7.11.40

ROBERT ARTHUR BEARDSLEY 100607 Sgt Pilot British 610 and 41 Squadrons Born at Charlton, London on January 19 1920, Beardsley was educated at the Roan School, Blackheath. He joined the RAFVR (741411) on April 2 1938 and carried out his elementary flying training at 20 E&RFTS, Gravesend.

PO (AAF) 24.4.36 FO (AAF) 24.10.37 FO 24 8.39 FL 12.3.40 SL 1.6.41 WC 1.6.42

Called up on September 1 1939, he was sent to 3 ITW, Hastings, after which he was posted to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth moving later to Middle Wallop and Chipping Norton. With training completed, Beardsley went directly to 610 Squadron at Biggin Hill on July 27 1940. He was attached to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 30th and after converting to Spitfires, he rejoined 610 on August 12. Beardsley claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on the 25th, probably destroyed a Do 17 and a Bf 109 on the 29th and shot down a He 111 on the 30th. The next day the squadron flew north to Acklington but Beardsley went south again on September 18, to join 41 Squadron at Hornchurch. On this day he damaged two Bf 109s and on the 30th he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and a Do 17. On this sortie Beardsley was attacked by Bf 109s off Dungeness and, after his engine caught fire, he made a forced-landing at Hawkinge, unhurt. Again off Dungeness, on October 25 1940, Beardsley was in hectic combat with Bf 109s. After shooting one down, his Spitfire, P 7371, was hit and a cannon shell went through his starboard camshaft. He managed to make a forced-landing at Hawkinge, once again unhurt. Commissioned in June 1941, Beardsley remained with 41 Squadron On August 18 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another. From late July 1941 the squadron was based at Merston, as part of the Tangmere Wing. He was awarded the DFC (17.10.41) and posted from 41 Squadron on November 22 1941. A period was spent instructing at a Spitfire OTU, before going to Andreas, where 93 Squadron was being reformed in June 1942. Beardsley went with the squadron to the invasion of North Africa in November. On the 25th of the month he probably destroyed an FW 190. After returning to England in 1943, he again went instructing at an OTU. After the invasion of Europe, Beardsley joined 222 Squadron at Tangmere and went with it to France. He later had a staff job in Cairo and was released from the RAF on December 20 1945. Beardsley rejoined the RAF on April 19 1949 as a Flight Lieutenant and after a flying refresher course and conversion to jets, he served with 74 Squadron at Horsham St Faith, as a Flight Commander in 1950 and 1951. Afterwards, he transferred into Fighter Control, on trial and mobile convoys in Germany, Singapore and Borneo. He did two tours at the School of Fighter Control, the second as CO. When he retired on July 31 1970, Beardsley was stationed at HQ 11 Group, Bentley Priory. After retirement, he took a mature teacher-training course, afterwards joining the staff at Butley Middle School, Woodbridge Suffolk. Beardsley died on October 17 2003.

WALTER BEAUMONT 76308 PO Pilot British

152 Squadron

Beaumont was born in Dewsbury, Yorkshire. He went to Scout Road School, Mytholmroyd then Hebden Bridge Grammar School. He went on to study for a BSc at Goldsmiths’ College at the University of London. From January 1937 he was a member of the RAFVR (740000). This number would seem to indicate that Beaumont was the very first man to join the RAFVR. He was then living at Coulsdon, Surrey. He did some flying at the Blackburn Aircraft Flying School at Brough, whilst he was on a course at Leeds College of Physical Education. He obtained a teaching post at Enfield Grammar School and whilst there he married and had a son. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and joined 152 Squadron at Acklington on December 15 1939. On August 12 1940 Beaumont damaged two Ju 88s, on the 13th he damaged a Bf 110, on the 16th he claimed two Bf 109s destroyed, on the 18th two Ju 87s and a shared Bf 109, on the 22nd a Ju 88 shot down, on the 25th another Bf 109 and on the 27th he shared in the destruction of a He 111. On this day Beaumont was hit by return fire from a Ju 88 and baled out safely. His Spitfire, R 6831, crashed into the sea eight miles off Portland. On September 7 Beaumont damaged a Do 17. He failed to return from an operational sortie on September 23. His Spitfire, R 7016, is believed to have crashed into the Channel, cause unknown. He was awarded the DFC after his death (22.10.40). Beaumont is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 7. He was 26 years old. He is also remembered with a memorial plaque, presented to Calder High School, Mytholmroyd, unveiled on September 23 1999, on the anniversary of his death. His name was also used for Beaumont House, one of six school houses at Churchill School in Salisbury, Zimbabwe, which were named for Battle of Britain pilots. PO 10.12.39

HUGH JOHN SHERARD BEAZLEY 73023 PO Pilot British 249 Squadron The son of a judge, Beazley was born on July 18 1916. He was educated at Cheltenham College and Pembroke College, Oxford, where he read History. He was a member of the University Air Squadron and transferred to the RAFVR in December 1937 (741134).

PO 28.6.41 FO 28.6.42 FL 28.6.43 FL 13.2.48 SL 1.7.65

MARCUS ALFRED BEATTY 69455 Sgt Pilot British 266 Squadron

Beazley was called up on September 25 1939 and commissioned. He went to RAF College FTS, Cranwell on November 6, for No 6 Course. Beazley made a forced-landing, en route from Cranwell to 10 B&GS, Warmwell on April 26 1940, where he was going for armament training, the last phase of his course. With his training completed on May 9 1940, Beazley joined 249 Squadron, when it reformed at Church Fenton on May 16. On July 8 Beazley shared a Ju 88 and on the 15th he destroyed a Bf 110. On September 2 he probably destroyed a Bf 110 and was then himself shot down in flames over Rochester by a Bf 110 of 5/ZG 26. He baled out over Gillingham and landed in Boxleywood. His Hurricane, P 2988, crashed near Rainham, on Eccles Recreation Ground. On September 5 Beazley probably destroyed a Bf 109, on the 6th he got a probable Ju 88, on the 7th he shared a Do 17 and on the 15th he destroyed another. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on September 18, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. On the 19th he shared a Do17 and damaged another on the 26th. Beazley shared a Bf 110 on the 27th and received a bullet wound in the foot. On October 15 1940 he was posted from 249 to SHQ North Weald, as non-effective sick and did not fly for some time. In May 1941 249 Squadron sailed for Malta, arriving there on the 21st, having flown off HMS Ark Royal. On June 8 Beazley shared a probable Fiat BR 20, on December 21 he

Beatty joined the RAFVR in May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748226). Called up on September 1, he did his elementary training at 12 EFTS, Wick, after which he was at 5 FTS, Sealand, on No 49 Course, which ran from June 16 to September 7 1940. He converted to Spitfires at 7 OTU, Hawarden and joined 266 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on September 30 1940. Beatty was commissioned in June 1941 and released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He may have died in Cairo in 1959. PO 19.5.41 FO 3.6.42 FL 3.6.43

STEPHEN GERALD BEAUMONT 90319 FL Pilot British 609 Squadron Born in 1910, Beaumont learned to fly at West Riding Aero Club, Yeadon in 1935. He was junior partner in a firm of solicitors and was the first privately-trained pilot to join 609 Squadron, AAF, when it formed at Yeadon on February 10 1936. Beaumont was commissioned in April and was one of the first three pilots trained with

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in 1947 as a Flying Officer in the Aircraft Control Branch. The date of his leaving the RAF has not been traced. He died in November 1994.

damaged a Bf 109 and on December 26 he assumed command of 249, when the CO was wounded. On January 19 1942 Beazley’s Hurricane, BV 174, was hit by ground fire during a strike on Comiso airfield and he made a crash-landing back at Luqa. He was posted away from the squadron on February 16 1942. Beazley later served with 89 Squadron, as a Flight Commander, and was awarded the DFC (7.3.44). He was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Wing Commander. He worked for the family shipping business, spent 10 years in Nigeria with the Colonial Office, then became a Chartered Accountant. He was Treasurer and later a Life Vice President of the Battle of Britain Memorial Trust. Beazley Way at the National Memorial to The Few at Capelle-Ferne is named after him. John Beazley died on June 13 2011.

PO 1.12.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 1.12.43 FO 18.7.47

CYRIL SYDNEY FRANK BEER 751495 Sgt Wop/AG British 235 Squadron Beer, from Southend-on-Sea, joined the Aircraft Crew Section of the RAFVR in June 1939 as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1 and with training completed, he joined 22 Squadron.

PO 25.9.39 FO 25.9.40 FL 25.9.41 SL 13.6.44

ANTONI BEDA P 1900 Sgt Pilot

Polish

Beer was attached to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on August 23 1940, length of stay unknown. He was killed on September 10 1940, on an operational sortie with 22 Squadron. He was 22 years old and is buried in Den Burg General Cemetery, Texel, The Netherlands.

302 Squadron

Beda was in the PAF before the war. After the fall of Poland he escaped to France and joined l’Armée de l’Air. In May 1940 he was serving with Groupe de Chasse I/2. On the 10th he shared in probably destroying a He 111, on the 11th he shared in the probable destruction of two Ju 88s and on June 5 he shared a Hs 126.

HENRY WILLIAM BEGGS Sub-Lieutenant (FAA) Pilot British

A man of this name joined the RAF with a short service commission in November 1936. He was gazetted as an Acting Pilot Officer, completed his training and was posted to 115 (Bomber) Squadron on September 4 1937. For an unknown reason Beggs’ commission was terminated on December 28 1937, on cessation of duty.

After the French collapse Beda made his way to England. He was enlisted in the RAFVR (793548) and went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool. From there he joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield on August 20 1940. Beda was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 2 and after converting to Hurricanes, he rejoined 302 on the 26th. Awarded the KW and Bar (1.2.41), Beda was posted from 302 to 87 Squadron at Colerne on September 27 1941. He was with 307 Squadron at Exeter from April 22 1942 and was commissioned in June. Beda was awarded the C de G (Fr) (7.7.43) and on July 7 1943 he was posted to 3 FIS but rejoined 307 Squadron on September 15. Rested from operations, Beda moved to HQ 216 Group. He went on to transport duties, when he joined 301 Squadron on April 28 1945. On January 24 1946 he was posted to 304 Squadron. Beda left the PAF in December 1946 and went to the USA. He later moved to Canada, where he died in 1960.

Beggs entered the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on May 1 1939, with the rank of Acting Sub-Lieutenant. He carried out his elementary flying training at 24 EFTS, Sydenham Belfast and was at No 1 FTS, Leuchars from November 6 1939 to April 21 1940, on No 6 Course. He was attached to the RAF on June 15 1940, sent to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 17th, converted to Hurricanes and joined 151 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on July 1. Beggs probably destroyed a Ju 88 on August 5 and destroyed a Bf 109 of 4/JG 52 over Kent on August 14. The next day he was shot down, in Hurricane P 3605, in combat with Bf 109s over Dover and crashed at Shorncliffe, wounded. He was attached to RAF North Weald as non-effective sick. After recovery, Beggs joined 46 Squadron at North Weald in early December 1940. He moved to 29 Squadron on January 15 1941. He returned to the FAA shortly afterwards. In January 1942 Beggs was posted to 883 Squadron (FAA) and he was lost when HMS Avenger was sunk on November 15 1942. He was 25 and is remembered on the Fleet Air Arm, Lee-on-Solent Memorial, Bay 3, Panel 1.

PO 1.6.42 FO 1.6.43 FL 1.6.44

ERNEST HORACE BEE 751768 Sgt Air Gunner

British

29 Squadron

Bee joined the Aircraft Crew Section of the RAFVR in May 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1, he trained as an Air Gunner. He joined 29 Squadron on May 17 1940.

APO 25.1.37 Acting Sub-Lt 1.5.39 Sub-Lt 14.3.40 Lt 1.11.41

MARIAN BELC P 1901 Sgt Pilot

Just before midnight on June 18, flying in a Blenheim piloted by Pilot Officer J D Humphreys, Bee was involved in the destruction of a He 111 off the Norfolk coast. He was one of the crew of Blenheim K 7135, flying off the East Coast on October 13, when they were attacked at dusk by Hurricanes of 312 Squadron. Although the aircraft was damaged, the pilot returned to base at Ternhill. Another Blenheim of 29 was not so lucky. It was shot down and the crew killed. Bee was posted away from 29 Squadron on March 22 1941 and nothing further of his war service is known. He left the RAF after the war as a Warrant Officer and died in 1987.

ALFRED FRANCIS BEECHEY 113913 Sgt Air Gunner British

151 Squadron

Polish

303 Squadron

Born in Poland on January 27 1914, Belc was in the PAF before the war. He began flying training in 1935 and after qualifying in 1936, he joined 143 Eskadra at Mysliwska. When the unit was disbanded in 1937, he went to 152 Eskadra at Wilno. He was still with 152 in September 1939 and on the 3rd he destroyed a Bf 110. When Poland fell, he escaped to Romania and later to France. He joined l’Armée de l’Air and served with Groupe de Chasse II/ 1, flying Morane 406s. After the fall of France Belc escaped to England arriving there on June 22 1940 and was enlisted into the RAFVR (793344). He went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. Belc joined 303 Squadron, when it was formed at Northolt on August 2. After a routine training flight on the 8th, he crashed on landing, in Hurricane R 4100. Belc was taken off flying for a while. Belc’s first operational sortie was made on September 15 and his first victory was a Bf 109, claimed on the 26th. On October 5 he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and on the 7th a Bf 109. In late 1940 he was sent to the Cadet Officers’ School and after being commissioned in May 1941, he rejoined 303 Squadron. Belc was awarded the KW (1.2.41). He shared in damaging a Ju 52, taxying on an aerodrome near St Inglevert, on May 15 1941, and on the same sortie he damaged a minelayer and another vessel. He claimed a Bf 109 on June 24 1941 and another on the 28th. He was awarded a Bar to

141 Squadron

Beechey joined the Aircraft Crew Section of the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/ AG. (746873) He was called up on September 1. With his training completed, he joined 141 Squadron, as an Air Gunner, and served with it in the Battle of Britain. Beechey was posted away from 141 on August 2 1941, to 410 (RCAF) Squadron, newly-formed at Ayr. He was commissioned from Flight Sergeant in December 1941 and posted to Bomber Command in 1942. He was awarded the DFC (12.1.43) and at that time was acting as Gunnery Leader with 101 Squadron, operating in Lancasters from Holme-on-Spalding Moor, Yorkshire. Beechey was released from the RAF in 1946 but rejoined

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Bell flew his first operational sortie on October 5 and on the 9th he crashed on landing at St Eval, in Spitfire R 6621, following the destruction of a Do 17 off Newquay. On March 2 1941 Bell was reported ‘Missing’, still with 234. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 39.

the KW (15.7.41) and the VM (5th Class) (10.9.41). Belc’s final victory was a Bf 109, claimed on October 24 1941. He was posted away to 58 OTU, Grangemouth in late April 1942. Belc later went to 3 Flying Instructors’ School at Baladown, Gloucestershire for a course. On August 27 1942 he was flying dual with another trainee, in Master W 8664 when they made too low an approach. The plane crashed on Babdown Farm and both men were killed. Belc is buried in Northwood Cemetery. He was awarded the DFC (15.11.42) and a further two Bars to the KW (31.10.47).

DEREK BELL 621608 Sgt Air Gunner

British

23 Squadron

PO 21.5.41 Bell, of South Shields, Co Durham, joined the RAF in September 1938, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. After training, he joined 23 Squadron at Collyweston.

LAWRENCE GEORGE BELCHEM 26172 SL Pilot British 264 Squadron

In the early hours of June 18 1940 Bell, flying in a Blenheim piloted by Flight Lieutenant R M B D Duke-Woolley, was involved in the destruction of a He 111 near Sheringham, Norfolk. Bell was killed on December 27 1941, serving with 50 Squadron, operating in Hampden bombers from Skellingthorpe, Lincolnshire. His aircraft had taken off from Wick to support the Vaagso commando operation and was shot down by flak. The pilot was picked up by a British ship. Bell was 23 and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 39.

Belchem went to Crewkerne School. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1928, as a Flight Cadet. He graduated on December 20 1930, with a Permanent Commission, and was posted to 19 Squadron at Duxford. On June 4 1933 Belchem went to 204 (Flying Boat) Squadron at Plymouth. He moved to 3 FTS, Grantham on July 3 1934, as an instructor. He went for a course to RAF Gosport on September 1 1935 and on October 23 1936 Belchem joined 824 (Fleet SpotterReconnaissance) Squadron, based on HMS Hermes in the Far East. On December 9 1938 Belchem was flying a Magister from the station flight at Linton-onOuse when the aircraft suffered engine failure. It was wrecked in the resultant forcedlanding. Belchem went to 5 OTU on June 7 1940 for a refresher course. He flew only one operational sortie during the Battle of Britain period, a convoy patrol with 264 Squadron on July 18 1940, with Sergeant A Berry as gunner. Belchem was not on the squadron strength. He was killed on July 14 1942, as a Squadron Leader with 119 Squadron, operating in Catalinas from Lough Erne. Belchem is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial.

JOHN SWIFT BELL 90051 FO Pilot British

Bell was commissioned in the Special Reserve of the RAF Reserve on April 22 1935. He resigned his commission on conversion of the Special Reserve to the Auxiliary Air Force on May 1 1936 and was commissioned in 503 Squadron AAF at Waddington on the same day. On November 1 1938 503 was disbanded.

PO 20.12.30 FO 20.6.32 FL 1.4.36 SL 1.12.38

Bell relinquished his Special Reserve commission in 503 and was then commissioned in Class ‘A’ of the AAF Reserve of Officers. He joined 616 Squadron on being mobilised on August 24 1939. Over Dunkirk on June 1 1940, he destroyed a Bf 109 and was then himself shot down into the sea and picked up by the Royal Navy. In the late evening of the 19th Bell intercepted and probably damaged a He 115 near Hull, which jettisoned its bombs. On July 1 he shared in destroying a He 111 E of Spurn Head. On August 25 Bell probably destroyed a Bf 109. On the 30th he was shot down in a head-on attack on Bf 109s over West Malling. His Spitfire, X 4248, crashed and burned out and Bell was killed. He was 23 and is buried in St Peter’s Cemetery, Lincoln.

ROBERT WILFRED GARTH BELEY 43022 PO Pilot Canadian 151 Squadron Beley was born in Nelson, British Columbia on December 13 1919 and moved with his family to Rossland, British Columbia, in 1923. He was provisionally selected by an RCAF Board for a short service commission in the RAF in 1939. He began his flying training on September 25. He went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on March 25 1940, on No 46 Course. After completing his training, Beley joined 151 Squadron at North Weald from 2 FTS on July 14. He was attached to the North Weald Sector Training Flight, to convert to Hurricanes. He rejoined 151 and was declared operational on August 2, when, with three other pilots, he was sent on forward deployment to Rochford. They were not scrambled from there and later returned to North Weald. In an action with Bf 109s off Ramsgate on August 12, Beley was shot down, in Hurricane P 3304, and crashed into the sea. He was rescued but died of his wounds at RAF Manston. Beley was 20 and is buried in Margate Cemetery, Kent.

PO (RAFR) 22.4.35 FO (AAF) 24.8.39

PO (AAF) 1.5.36

RALPH BELL 565216 Sgt Air Gunner

British

FO (AAF) 20.7.37

FO (AAFRO) 1.11.38

219 Squadron

Bell joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice, in January 1931 and passed out in December 1933. He later remustered as an Air Gunner.

APO 23.3.40 PO 13.7.40

CHARLES ALGERNON BELL 76595 PO Air Gunner British

He was with 219 Squadron at Catterick in June 1940. On August 2 1940 he was crew in Blenheim L 8962, which overshot the runway at RAF Leeming during a practise landing, not using flaps. The pilot, Pilot Officer W G M Lambie, deliberately raised the undercarriage to avoid running on to the Great North Road. Both men were unhurt. Bell was still with 219 in November 1940. Nothing further is known of his RAF service. He died on September 17 2005.

29 Squadron

Bell was commissioned in the RAFVR in December 1939, as a direct-entry Air Gunner. With gunnery training completed, he had joined 29 Squadron at Digby before April 4 1940.

DAVID BASIL BELL-SALTER 41895 PO Pilot British 253 Squadron

On September 6 he was involved in a car accident, with Pilot Officers A S Steele and J R D Braham. There is no further information on Bell, except for the fact that his commission was terminated on December 9 1940, reason unknown.

Bell-Salter was granted a short service commission in the RAF. He began his ab initio course at 11 E&RFTS, Perth on February 6 1939, as a pupil pilot.

APO 30.12.39 PO 26.2.40

CHARLES HENRY BELL 754849 Sgt Pilot British

616 Squadron

He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on April 15 for a short induction course and moved on to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on May 1, on No 39 Course. With training completed, Bell-Salter joined the newlyformed 253 Squadron at Manston on November 6 1939. He became ill on the 27th and was admitted to Princess Mary’s RAF Hospital at Halton. On December 23 1939 Bell-Salter was posted from 253 to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, as non-effective sick, with effect

234 Squadron

Bell joined the RAFVR in August 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot, and was called up at the outbreak of war. He did his elementary flying training at 32 EFTS and moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand on June 16 1940, on No 49 Course. With training completed on September 7, Bell was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden, where he converted to Spitfires before joining 234 Squadron at St Eval on September 29.

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Home again in 1948, Benn was posted to a Radar/Signals Unit at Chicksands, to RAF Luqa, Malta in 1949, returned to the UK in 1952 and was discharged to pension on October 16 1954 as a Warrant Officer. He was employed by Orient Line. He died on February 2 2005.

from November 27. He rejoined 253 Squadron on January 13 1940. He was sent to France, with ‘A’ Flight of 253, on May 18, to Poix. On this day Bell-Salter destroyed a Fi 156 Storch. Later the same day he was reported ‘Missing’ and he rejoined the Flight on the 22nd. On the 24th he destroyed a Hs 126 and the Flight was withdrawn to Kirton-in-Lindsey. On September 2 1940 Bell-Salter was shot down in a combat over the Sussex coast. He attempted to get out of his cockpit but he was flying without gloves and, with his hood open, his hands were too cold to pull out the harness pin. Down to 1500 feet, he finally managed it and shot out by kicking his feet on the floor. The aircraft, being in a full-throttle dive, made the airflow such as to render him unconscious as he went through it. Bell-Salter came to at only 100 feet from the ground, hanging upside down by one leg with a single rigging line caught behind his knee. The parachute was torn across and flapping and his harness was completely off and hanging beside him. On hitting the ground Bell-Salter passed out again. He sustained several badly-crushed vertebrae, both shoulders were dislocated, one knee was broken and his right heel smashed. He was admitted to Rye Hospital. Bell-Salter was posted from 253 Squadron on October 5 1940 to RAF Kenley, as noneffective sick, with effect from September 2. He was in various hospitals for several months. In June 1941 Bell-Salter was instructing at 53 OTU, Heston. He was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1998. APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39

FO 6.11.40

CLARENCE CHARLES BENNETT 42097 PO Pilot Australian 248 Squadron Bennett was born at Mallala, South Australia on November 28 1916. He was educated at Kapunda High School and was employed by the railways as a junior clerk. He became interested in flying and in 1936 joined the Adelaide Gliding Club. He took flying lessons at Mount Gambier in 1937. After applying for an RAF short service commission, Bennett was provisionally accepted in December 1938. He sailed for England on February 2 1939 and began his ab initio training on March 13 1939, as a pupil pilot. With training completed, he joined 248 Squadron on November 6 1939, when it was reformed at Hendon. It was then a fighter squadron but in February 1940 it was transferred to Coastal Command. Bennett went to the Blind Approach Training Unit at Boscombe Down on May 13 1940, on No 18 Course. He rejoined 248 0n the 25th. On September 28 Bennett engaged and damaged a Do 18 flying boat over the North Sea. His aircraft was hit by return fire and Bennett and his observer, Sergeant G S Clarke, were slightly wounded. With a fuel tank damaged, Bennett headed rapidly for home. It transpired that the enemy aircraft landed on the sea and was abandoned by its crew before it sank. Bennett failed to return from a reconnaissance operation to the Norwegian coast on October 1 1940, in Blenheim R 3626. He and his crew, Sergeants Clarke and G B Brash, Wop/AG, were reported ‘Missing’. All three men are remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 12.

FL 6.11.41

HOWARD JOHN BELL-WALKER 103515 Sgt Pilot British 64 and 72 Squadrons Bell-Walker was born on August 7 1920 in Birmingham and educated at Rynaby School, Banbury and Bloxham School. He joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748216), and began training at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley. He was called up in November 1939 and went to 7 EFTS, Desford. On April 11 1940 he was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill, on No 19 Course. He was awarded his flying badge in June and the course ended on July 24 1940. Bell-Walker went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 3, converted to Spitfires and joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield on the 19th. He moved to 72 Squadron at Croydon on September 11. On the 14th he baled out, unhurt, following a combat over Ashford. His Spitfire, K 9960, crashed and burned out at Orlestone. Four days later Bell-Walker was shot down in a surprise attack by Bf 109s during a squadron patrol over Gravesend. He was seriously wounded and in hospital for some time. On November 25 1940 Bell-Walker rejoined 64 Squadron, at Kenley. In early 1941 he was posted to 602 Squadron at Prestwick and was commissioned in August. On August 12 1941 he took part in a Blenheim escort to Lille, flying as No 2 to the CO, Squadron Leader A C Deere. The squadron was surprised by Bf 109s and Bell-Walker was shot down, before he could break away. He baled out, wounded and was captured. At some time Bell-Walker was held in Stalag Luft 3 (Pow No 9664). He stayed on in the RAF after the war, transferred into the Engineering Branch and was made an MBE (30.4.54). Bell-Walker retired on December 1 1967 as a Squadron Leader. He later went to live in Canada.

APO 13.5.39 PO 6.11.39

HECTOR ERNEST BENNETT 758075 Sgt Pilot British 43 Squadron Bennett joined the RAFVR around July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1, did his elementary flying at No 1 EFTS, Hatfield and completed his training at 9 FTS, Hullavington, on No 20 Course, which ran from June 9 to September 7 1940. He went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 7 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 43 Squadron at Usworth on the 28th. Bennett moved to 249 Squadron at North Weald on November 10 1940 and then to 17 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on the 16th. He was posted to 257 Squadron, also at Martlesham, on the 28th and joined it on December 5. His final move was to 145 Squadron at Tangmere, which he joined on December 21 1940. Bennett was killed on February 4 1941, in Oxford P 1081 of CFS, when he crashed on approach to Alton Barnes. He was 22. Bennett was cremated at Arnos Vale Cemetery, Bristol.

PO 7.8.41 FO 7.8.42 FL 7.8.43 FL 30.5.48 SL 1.1.56

GORDON WILLIAM BENN 513418 Sgt Air Gunner British

219 Squadron GEOFFREY RYDING BENNETTE 42387 PO Pilot British 17 Squadron

Joined the RAF on October 16 1930 at the age of 18, as an Aircrafthand. After three months of training at Uxbridge, Benn was posted to a Vimy bomber squadron at Hawkinge.

Bennette was born on June 8 1917 in Birkenhead, the son of a dentist. He was educated at Birkenhead Preparatory School and went to Park High School in January 1930. The family moved south in July and Bennette completed his education at Wellington County School for Boys in Surrey.

In July 1931 he went to 423 Flight, HMS Furious, with Fairey Flycatchers. The unit was transferred in 1932 to HMS Courageous, Mediterranean Fleet. Benn left the FAA in 1933 and went to RAF Gosport, then on to HMS Hornet, a Repair Unit for Air-Sea Rescue vessels. In 1935 he was in 28 Squadron, Ambala, as a trainee air gunner. He served on the North-West Frontier and got the India General Service Medal in 1937. Benn returned to the UK in January 1938 and joined 217 Squadron as a Corporal Air Gunner, flying in Ansons. At the outbreak of war he was posted to 219 Squadron, then being reformed at Catterick. He flew with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain and on October 25 1940 he shot down a Do 17. After flying operationally for three years, Benn came off in 1942 and went to 53 MU, Charlwood, a depot supplying bombs to the squadrons on a 24 hour basis. In August 1945 Benn went to Singapore with 5353 Airfield Construction Wing, to build metal runways at Changi. After this he joined 314 MU at Seletar, where fourteen RAF men, with the aid of two hundred Japanese PoWs, were dismantling or disposing of Japanese bombs.

He entered the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio training on June 2 1939, as a pupil pilot. With training completed, Bennette arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on April 6 1940, converted to Hurricanes, and joined 17 Squadron at Debden on May 6. On July 9 he shared in the destruction of a He 111. He was posted away to 6 OTU on October 16 1940, as an instructor. Bennette was reported ‘Missing’ after operations over the English Channel on August 19 1942 as a Flight Lieutenant with 245 Squadron. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 65. APO 5.8.39 PO 6.4.40 FO 6.4.41 FL 6.4.42

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GEORGE HERMAN BENNIONS 43354 PO Pilot British 41 Squadron

With his tour completed, Bennison returned to the UK in October 1943, where he was posted to an instructor’s course at 62 OTU, Ouston. In January 1944 he went to 51 OTU, Cranfield, as an instructor, and was commissioned in February. Repatriated to New Zealand in early June, he went on to the Reserve on September 22 1944. He joined the Active Reserve at its inception in 1949, with his original number of 130806, and continued to do so until transferred to the General Reserve on December 31 1969. He was awarded the Air Efficiency Medal and two clasps. Bennison died on April 30 2011.

Born at Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent on March 15 1913, Bennions went to Longton High School. He joined the RAF at Halton in January 1929, as an Aircraft Apprentice (563057). He passed out as an LAC Engine Fitter in December 1931.

PO 26.2.44 FO 27.2.56

Later recommended for a cadetship at RAF College, Cranwell, Bennions did his ab initio flying training there but the cadetship did not materialise. Bennions later applied for pilot training, was accepted and in 1935 he continued his flying training at 3 FTS, Grantham. After qualifying in January 1936, he joined 41 Squadron at Khormaksar, Aden, as a Sergeant-Pilot. Promoted to Flight Sergeant in November 1938, Bennions was commissioned in April 1940. In June he was detached to the School of Air Navigation, St Athan, for a course. He rejoined 41, then based at Catterick, on the 30th. On July 28 and 29 1940 he claimed Bf 109s destroyed. On the 29th Bennions was himself shot down over Dover and he made a crash-landing at Manston with damaged flaps, in Spitfire N 3264. On August 15 Bennions claimed a Bf 110 and another damaged, on September 5 a Ju 88 destroyed, a Bf 109 probably destroyed and a Ju 88 damaged. On the 6th he claimed two Bf 109s shot down and on the 7th his undercarriage collapsed on landing at Rochford after combat, in which he probably destroyed a Bf 109. Another Bf 109 was claimed on the 9th and he damaged a Bf 110 on the 11th. On this day Bennions landed at Hornchurch, with a shell splinter in his heel. A Bf 109 was claimed as destroyed and a Do 17 damaged on the 15th, a Bf 109 shot down on the 17th and a Bf 109 destroyed, two more probably destroyed and one damaged on the 18th. Bennions destroyed another Bf 109 on the 23rd, probably two more on the 28th probably another on the 30th and his final victory, another Bf 109, came on October 1 1940. On this day, in combat with Bf 109s over Henfield, Bennions had a cannon shell explode in his cockpit, blinding him in one eye and wounding his right arm and leg. He baled out, landing at Dunstalls Farm, and after emergency treatment at Horsham Hospital, he was transferred to Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead. His Spitfire, X 4559, crashed on Heatenthorn Farm, Alborne. Bennions underwent plastic surgery by Archie McIndoe and became a Guinea Pig. His DFC (1.10.40) was gazetted on the day he was shot down. When fully recovered, Bennions was anxious to fly again and after a test at CFS he was given an A2B non-operational category, which allowed him to fly only by day and with a passenger, who could look out. In 1943 Bennions was posted to North Africa, where he was appointed Liaison Officer to an American Fighter Group, which had recently received Spitfires. In Sicily he flew Spitfires on convoy patrols but took no part in combat. In October 1943 Bennions was commanding a Ground Control Interception unit. He suffered shrapnel wounds, when the landing craft he was in, at Ajaccio, Corsica, was sunk by enemy action. He returned to the UK and was once again a patient at East Grinstead. After release from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader, Bennions became a school teacher. He died on January 30 2004.

JAMES GHILLIES BENSON 81365 PO Pilot British 141 Squadron Benson was born on July 17 1914 in London. He was educated at Westminster School and worked for Esso Petroleum Ltd in the years before the war. In early June 1939 Benson joined the RAFVR (754580) and did his weekend flying at 15 E&RFTS, Redhill. Called up on September 1, he went to No 1 ITW, Cambridge on the 18th, moving on to 6 EFTS, Sywell on October 21 and then to 8 FTS, Montrose on March 7 1940. With training completed, Benson was commissioned and posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 7 1940. He converted to Defiants and joined 141 Squadron at Prestwick on the 24th. The squadron was still recovering from its heavy daylight losses off Folkestone five days earlier. In a night-fighting role and operating from Gravesend, 141 was more successful and on December 23 1940 he destroyed a He 111 at 06.05 hrs, which crashed at Underwoods House, Etchingham. After being posted away from 141 early in 1941, Benson went to an Operational Conversion Unit in Scotland before joining 62 OTU, as an instructor. In October 1941 he rejoined 141 Squadron and teamed up with Lewis Brandon, to form a highly successful partnership which, except for a five month break in 1943, was to go on until they came off operations in January 1945. Their first victory was a Do 217 on February 15 1942 and on June 4 they probably destroyed a Do 217 and damaged another. On July 17 1942 both men were sent to 62 OTU, Usworth, as instructors. They were each awarded the DFC (2.10.42). They moved to 54 OTU, Charter Hall on October 27, to instruct. A return to operations for them came on February 16 1943, with a posting to 157 Squadron at Castle Camps. On April 15 Benson and Brandon destroyed a Do 217 at night and on an intruder patrol on July 3, over St Trond airfield, they shot down another Do 217. In early August 1943 Brandon was posted away but he rejoined 157, then at Predannack, in January 1944. Reunited, Benson and Brandon destroyed a Ju 188 on June 12 and in the next five weeks they shot down six V1s at night. In July Benson was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader and appointed a Flight Commander. The final months of 1944 were very successful, with two Ju 188s shot down on September 11/12, a Ju 88 damaged on the 13/14, a Ju 88 destroyed on November 10/11, a Ju 88 damaged on December 17/18, another damaged on the 23/24th and a Bf 110 destroyed on the 24/25th. Both men were awarded Bars to the DFC (20.10.44). Their final victory was a He 219 on January 5/6 1945. Benson was posted to Great Massingham on January 21 1945, as a Wing Commander, to form and command 1692 Bomber Support Training Unit. Brandon went with him as CGI with the rank of Squadron Leader. Benson was awarded the DSO (13.3.45) and released from the RAF in October. He returned to Esso, as an Aviation Manager. He served with 613 Squadron, RAuxAF and continued to fly with it and Esso in the 1950s. Benson died on July 12 1987.

PO 1.4.40 FO 1.4.41 FL 1.6.42

ALAN BENNISON 40601 Sgt Air Gunner

New Zealander

25 Squadron

Bennison was born in Ashburton on March 5 1918 and educated at the Hampstead School and the Technical School there. He volunteered for aircrew duties in early 1939 but was not called up until February 13 1940 (130806).

PO 6.7.40 FO 6.7.41 FL 6.7.42 SL 20.4.45 FO (AAF) 21.1.47

NOEL JOHN VICTOR BENSON 33485 PO Pilot British 603 Squadron

After completing his initial training, Bennison sailed for the UK, arriving on June 8. He was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 17, for further training and, after being awarded his Air Gunner’s badge, he joined 25 Squadron at North Weald on September 21 1940. From October the squadron began to receive Beaufighters, equipped with radar. Bennison remustered as a Radar Operator (Air) in late December 1940 and, after a navigation course at Cranage, he became a Navigator Radar in July 1941. Bennison was posted to 89 Squadron, then forming at Colerne, in October 1941. The squadron flew to the Middle East, as two flights, in November. As well as night defence of the Delta, 89 Squadron also flew long day patrols over the Mediterranean, searching for FW Kondors, which were preying on Allied shipping. In August 1942 Bennison was posted to India but he fell sick and remained at Air HQ Middle East, on Operations Room duties. He rejoined 89 in February 1943 but went to 46 Squadron at Edku on April 13.

Born on December 11 1918 at Great Ouseburn, Yorkshire, Benson went to Sedbergh School. He entered RAF College, Cranwell on April 28 1938, as a Flight Cadet. After the outbreak of war, Cranwell cadets who had not completed their courses were enlisted in the RAF on September 7 1939 as Airmen u/t Pilots and each given an airman number. Benson (581680) graduated at Cranwell on October 23, with a Permanent Commission. He immediately went to 11 Group Fighter Pool, St Athan, converted to Blenheims and joined 145 Squadron at Croydon on October 30. He joined ‘A’ Flight, 603 Squadron at Prestwick on December 16 1939. Benson was still with 603 in July 1940. On

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HUGH RICHARD ADEN BERESFORD 37150 FL Pilot British 257 Squadron

the 23rd he shared in the destruction of a Do 17. His Spitfire, N 3229, was hit by return fire and his starboard undercarriage leg collapsed on landing and the aircraft tipped up. On August 27 603 went south to Hornchurch. Next day Benson was shot down in combat with Bf 109s and killed, when he crashed in flames on Great Hay Farm, Leigh Green, Tenterden, Kent. He was 21 and is buried in the extension to St Mary’s churchyard, Great Ouseburn. Benson’s brother, Captain Brian Joseph Nodder Benson, Royal Corps of Signals, was killed on April 15 1945 and is buried in Becklingen War Cemetery, Germany.

Born at Ampthill, Bedfordshire in 1915, Beresford was the son of the Rector of Hoby, Leicestershire. He joined the RAF on a short service commission in February 1935 and after completing his training, he was posted to 3 Squadron at Port Sudan on March 6 1936. Beresford returned to the UK with the squadron in August 1936 and on April 1 1937 he was posted to the staff of No 1 Anti-Aircraft Co-operation Unit at Biggin Hill. On October 4 he was appointed Personal Assistant to the AOC 11 Group. On May 14 1940 Beresford was posted from 11 Group. He was briefly attached to CFS for a short refresher course, after which he joined the newly-reformed 257 Squadron at Hendon, as a Flight Commander, on May 17. Beresford probably destroyed a Bf 110 on August 12, shared in destroying a He 111 on the 18th and claimed a Bf 110 on the 31st. In Hurricane P 3049, Beresford was shot down in combat over the Thames Estuary on September 7 1940. The aircraft crashed at Elmley, Spitend Point, Sheppey and he was reported ‘Missing’. Excavations in 1979 revealed that his remains were still in the cockpit. He was buried at Brookwood Military Cemetery on November 16 1979 with full military honours. Beresford was 24 when he was killed.

PO 23.10.39

BENJAMIN BENT 52078 Sgt Radar Operator

British

25 Squadron

Bent was born on August 22 1919 at Coatbridge, Scotland. He joined the RAF on November 8 1937, as an Aircraft hand (545819) and began a Wireless Operator course at No 1 Electrical and Wireless School at Cranwell in February 1938. The course ended in November and Bent was posted to Biggin Hill on January 9 1939. In June 1940 he volunteered for aircrew duties and he joined 25 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on August 6. Bent was detached to 604 Squadron at Middle Wallop on the 31st, for AI training, after which he rejoined 25 Squadron. Bent began operational night-flying, as an LAC, but without a flying badge. On September 27 1940 he was promoted to Sergeant, with the category of Wireless Operator

APO 16.4.35 PO 16.4.36 FO 16.1.38 FL 16.1.40

VACLAV BERGMAN 81884 PO Pilot Czechoslovakian

(Air). On his first operational tour Bent assisted in five successful night interceptions, all with Squadron Leader H P Pleasance, in Beaufighters. On the night of May 4/5 1941 they intercepted and damaged an unidentified enemy aircraft, on the 7/8th and 8/9th two Do 17s were destroyed, on the 11/12th a He 111 was damaged and during the night of June 13/14 a Ju 88 was destroyed. Bent remustered as a Radio Observer on July 10 1941. Tour expired, he was posted to 54 OTU, Charter Hall on April 29 1942 as an instructor. On July 23 Bent was reclassified as a Navigator Radio and he rejoined 25 Squadron, then at Church Fenton, on September 8 1942 for his second tour. He was commissioned from Warrant Officer in April 1943. On March 21 1944 he assisted in destroying two Ju 88s and at 00.43 hrs on June 6 a Bf 110 over the North Sea, possibly the first enemy aircraft shot down on D-Day. Awarded the DFC (26.5.44), Bent finished his tour in July and then served as Night Fighter Liaison Officer in France, with P 61 Squadron, USAAF. Bent was released from the RAF on February 2 1947 as a Flight Lieutenant. He rejoined on October 4 1950, on a short service commission in the Fighter Control Branch. Granted a Permanent Commission on April 1 1952, Bent retired from the RAF at his own request on December 5 1970 as a Flight Lieutenant.

310 Squadron

Bergman was born on August 27 1915 at Domousice/Louny, in the Austro-Hungarian Empire. He was educated at Rakovnik Grammar School, and joined the Czech Air Force in 1935.

Benzie carried out further training there, on Hurricanes, was posted to 242 Squadron on January 26 1940 and joined it on February 3 at Church Fenton. He went to France with the squadron on May 16. On the 23rd he was attacked by Bf 109s near Ypres. He baled out S of Dunkirk, wounded, was evacuated to England by sea and admitted to the RAF Officers’ Hospital, Torquay. Benzie rejoined 242 on July 11. He did a short parachute course at 8 S of TT, Weeton, Lancashire from August 2. He failed to return from a combat over the Thames Estuary on September 7 1940. He was 25 and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 7. Benzie Lake, Manitoba, Canada, was named in his honour in 1953. Research led to an aircraft crash site being excavated more than once at Theydon Bois, Essex, which was thought to be his. An oxygen mask connector with “BENZIE” scratched on it was among items discovered. However, the evidence was officially ruled inconclusive and the human remains found were buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery as ‘An Unknown Pilot’.

With training completed at the Military Air School at Prostejov, he joined the Observation Flight of the 1st Air Regiment at Cheb on July 1 1936. Bergman underwent further training at the Military Academy at Hranice na Morave and graduated as a fighter pilot. On June 3 1938 he joined the Fighter Flight of the 4th Air Regiment at Prague/Kbely airfield. After the Germans marched into Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939, Bergman was demobilised on the 17th and went to work for the Avia Aircraft Company in Prague/Letnany. On June 17 he fled to Poland and reached France in July. After the outbreak of war, Bergman joined l’Armée de L’Air. He did a conversion course on to French fighter aircraft and was posted to the Escadrille Legere, flying in defence of Chartres. When France fell, he went to England on the MS Karanan, was commissioned in the RAFVR and on July 12 1940 he joined 310 Squadron, then being formed at Duxford. The squadron became operational on August 18. Bergman was shot down on the 26th, attacking Do 17s over Clacton. He baled out, slightly wounded. His Hurricane, P3960, crashed and burned out at Rumbolds Farm, Goldsands, Southminster. In September, Bergman destroyed a Bf 110 on the 9th and shared a Ju 88 on the 18th. He shared in probably destroying a Ju 88 on October 28. Bergman probably destroyed a Ju 88 on August 13 1941. He was appointed a Flight Commander in April 1942 and on June 5 he damaged a FW 190. He completed his tour in October 1942. On January 1 1943 Bergman joined 313 Squadron at Churchstanton, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. In September 1943 he was posted to Czech Air Force HQ in London. He rejoined 313 Squadron, then at Ibsley, on January 31 1944, as Commanding Officer. He was posted away on May 22 to 19 Sector, 2nd TAF. He was awarded the DFC (3.7.44). In February 1945 Bergman was sent for a course to the War College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, after which he returned to London in June and went to RAF Staff College at Gerrards Cross. Bergman returned to Czechoslovakia in February 1946 and was given command of the 2nd Air Regiment (Fighter) at Ceske Budejovice. He joined the Staff of the Czech Air Force on April 15 but, after the Communist coup in 1948, he was discharged on June 1. In September 1948 Bergman fled again to England and rejoined the RAF. He retrained as a flying boat pilot and joined 209 Squadron at Seletar, Singapore, flying Sunderlands. He flew operationally in Malaya and Korea and received a Mention in Despatches (21.3.52) for service in Malaya and was awarded a Bar to the DFC (24.4.53). He was in the Aircraft Control Branch, when he retired on April 30 1969 as a Squadron Leader. Bergman died in Dumbarton, Scotland on December 31 2002.

APO 24.6.39 PO 9.12.39

PO 12.7.40 SL 1.1.63

PO 24.4.43 FO 24.10.43 FL 24.4.45 FO 23.12.47 FL 27.5.54

JOHN BENZIE 42185 PO Pilot

Canadian

242 Squadron

Benzie was born in Winnipeg on March 14 1915 and graduated from St John’s Technical High School. He served in Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry before joining the RAF on a short service commission. He began his training on May 1 1939, as a pupil pilot, and on completion, he went to 11 Group Pool, Aston Down on December 28.

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THOMAS COLQHOUN EDMONDS BERKLEY 754377 Sgt Pilot British 85 Squadron

BRONISLAW BERNAS 76820 PO Pilot Polish

302 Squadron

Berkley, from Tullahogue, Co Tyrone, was in the RAFVR from about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1, went to ITW, then completed his elementary flying training and was posted to 14 FTS, Kinloss on April 28 1940, on No 7 Course.

Born in Lwow on August 6 1906, Bernas qualified for an engineering degree in the University there. In 1929 he learned to fly and from September 1931 to August 1932 Bernas was at the Polish Air Force Officers’ School at Deblin. He took part in annual exercises from 1932.

He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 3 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 85 Squadron at Croydon on September 2. In early 1941 the squadron was a night-fighter unit, equipped with Hurricanes, Defiants and Havocs. On the night of April 16, Berkley damaged a He 111, one of some 700 bombers attacking London. On a night sortie on June 14 1941, Berkley was shot down in a Havoc over the Thames Estuary. He and his radar operator were both reported ‘Missing’. Berkley was 23. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 35.

Bernas was called up on August 24 1939 and fought in Poland until September 17, escaping then and going to France. He finally reached England on April 9 1940 and he was commissioned in the RAFVR in early May. After spells at RAF Eastchurch and at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, Bernas was posted to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum on August 23. He was on the 5th Polish Pilots’ Course, for testing and grading. At the end of the short course, he was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 1, for conversion to Hurricanes. On the 23rd Bernas joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield. Over Selsey Bill on March 13 1941, he shared in damaging a Ju 88. He was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on April 15, as an instructor. Bernas joined the newly-formed 288 (Anti-Aircraft Co-operation) Squadron at Digby on November 24 1941. He remained with the unit until August 4 1943, when he came off flying and joined 5010 Airfield Construction Squadron. Bernas spent the rest of his RAF service with the Directorate of Works and Airfield Construction. He married and remained in Britain after the war. He died in Folkestone on September 1 1980.

FRANTISEK ANTONIN BERNARD 120209 Sgt Pilot Czechoslovakian

310, 601 & 238 Sqdns

Bernard was born on July 23 1914 at Stary Ehrenberk, Sluknov, Czechoslovakia. He joined the NCO Military School at Chleb for training to become an aircraft mechanic in 1936. The following year he transferred to the Military Aviation Academy at Prostejov for elementary flying training. He was selected for fighter pilot training and sent to the Military Academy at Hradce Hralove. When the Germans took over the country on March 15 1939 the Czech Air Force was disbanded and Bernard was demobilised on the 17th. On June 6 he fled to Poland and with other Czechoslovak airmen he sailed on the Kastelholm from Gdynia to France arriving on August 24 1939. In France he was required to enlist in the French Foreign Legion for five years, with the assurance that should war be declared he would be transferred to a French military unit. After war broke out he was transferred to l’Armée de l’Air and assigned to the Chartres airbase for retraining on French equipment. He was posted to GC II/2, at Chissey, on May 13 1940, which was equipped with ME406C aircraft. The rapid advance of German forces during the Battle of France caused the unit to move constantly to avoid capture; to Feurs on June 15 1940, St Etienne-Bouteon on June 16 1940, St Symphoroen d’Ozen on June 17 1940 and Montpellier-Frejorques on June 23 1940 followed by Perpignan. With the capitulation of France imminent, Bernard was released from service with l’Armee d l’Air and, with other Czechoslovak airmen, he made his way to Port Vendres from where he sailed on the General Chanza to Oran, Algeria. He then travelled by train to Casablanca, Morocco from where he sailed to Gibraltar. He changed ships and then arrived in England on July 12 1940 and joined the RAFVR (787543) on July 26 1940. Initially he was posted to the Czechoslovak Transit Camp at Cholmondeley with the rank of Sergeant from where he was transferred to the Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford. He joined 310 Squadron, newly-formed at Duxford, on August 6 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 17, with 19 other Czech pilots from Duxford for re-training on to Hurricane aircraft. After completing his training, Bernard joined 601 Squadron at Exeter on September 10. He moved to 238 Squadron at Chilbolton on October 28. He shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 with Flight Lieutenant E J Morris on March 23 1941. Whilst returning from a night patrol in Hurricane Z 5 222 on August 25 1941 he was unable to land at his home airfield at Fairwood Common due to the weather and was diverted to Angle airfield at Pembrey. The flarepath at Angle was still under construction and on landing in the dark his aircraft hit a steamroller which had been parked very close to the edge of the runway. No blame was attached to Bernard for this incident. Bernard was commissioned on April 9 1942 and, in December, having completed his operational tour, he was posted to 56 OTU as an instructor. On June 8 1942 he was posted to 3EFTS at Shellingford. He returned to operational duties on August 6 1942 with 313 Squadron. On June 22 1943 he was posted to 1648 Flight where he remained until March 1944 when he went to the Czechoslovak Inspectorate General (CIG). On May 22 1944 he was posted to 310 Squadron as Commander of ‘B’ Flight. He remained in this post until the end of the war. Bernard was released after the war and returned to Czechoslovakia in August 1945. Following the Communist takeover in February 1948, he escaped to the American Zone of Germany and travelled to England where he rejoined the RAF in 1950. He received a Mention in Despatches (6.3.56) for distinguished service in Kenya and was awarded the AFC (1.1.57). He retired on July 23 1964 as a Flight Lieutenant. In the same month Bernard emigrated to New Zealand where he died on June 17 1990.

PO 3.5.40

HORACE WALTER WILLIAM BERRIDGE 115634 Sgt Air Gunner British 219 Squadron Born in 1912, Berridge was in the printing business before the war. He joined the Aircraft Crew Section of the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (747743), and was called up on September 1. With training completed, he joined 219 Squadron at Catterick in September 1940. Next month the squadron began to convert to Beaufighters and he retrained as a Radar Operator, later becoming a Radio Observer. In late 1940 Berridge teamed up with Flying Officer J G Topham and so began a long and successful night-fighting partnership. On the night of March 13/14 1941 they destroyed a He 111, on June 13/14 they shot down an unidentified enemy aircraft over Worthing and on July 17/18 a Ju 88 over Tangmere. Berridge was commissioned in January 1942. During the night of April 25/26 he and Topham shot down a Do 17, on May 7/8 they destroyed a He 111 and on June 8/9 a Ju 88, which crashed into the sea at Nettlestone Point, Isle of Wight. Awarded the DFC (23.6.42), Berridge assisted in the destruction of a Do 217 on July 6/7, two more on the 25/26th and another on September 19/20, which crashed into the sea off Tynemouth. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (20.10.42). Topham and Berridge were rested after completing their first operational tour. In January 1943 Berridge was posted to 157 Squadron at Predannack and flew with the CO, Wing Commander V J Wheeler. In October 1943 Topham was given command of 125 Squadron at Exeter and he took Berridge with him, as his navigator. On the night of April 26/27 1944 they destroyed a Ju 188, two nights later a Ju 88, on May 27/28 they damaged a Me 410 off the Cherbourg Peninsula and on the night of June 18/19 they destroyed two Ju 88s, the team’s final victories. Berridge was awarded the DSO (17.8.45), being then credited with assisting in the destruction of at least twelve enemy aircraft. Berridge was released from the RAF in late 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1958. PO 5.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 5.1.44

ALAN BERRY 968035 Sgt Air Gunner

British

264 Squadron

Berry came from Longsight, Manchester. He joined the RAFVR at No 3 RAF Depot, Padgate in September 1939. He later volunteered for training as an Air Gunner. With training completed, he was with 264 Squadron in July 1940. The squadron, which had sustained heavy losses over Dunkirk, moved to Hornchurch on August 21 1940 for another try at day operations. On August 24 the squadron was refuelling at Manston when a force of enemy bombers

PO 9.04.42 FO ? FL 18.5.56

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He was awarded the DFC (25.10.40). On November 7 Berry shared a Bf 110, on the 8th damaged a Bf 109, on the 17th destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 23rd he shot down an Italian CR 42 and probably another. These biplane fighters were escorting bombers attacking coastal shipping. By January 1941 Berry was ‘A’ Flight Commander, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. When his operational tour ended in April, Berry went to Turnhouse on the 25th, as a Fighter Controller. In January 1942 he was given command of 81 Squadron. The pilots had just returned from Russia, leaving their aircraft there. In October the squadron sailed for Gibraltar, where it picked up tropical Spitfire Mark Vcs. On November 8 1942, the day of the landings in North Africa, 81 put in at Maison Blanche, probably the first Allied squadron to land. Next day Berry destroyed a Ju 88 and shared in destroying a Ju 88 and a He 111, on the 11th he damaged another Ju 88, on the 14th damaged a Mc 200, on the 26th damaged two Bf 109s and on the 28th shared another. Berry shared a FW 190 on December 3, destroyed another on the 6th and shot down a SM 79 on the 10th. He was promoted and appointed Wing Leader, 322 Wing on January 23 1943. The Wing was made up of 81, 152, 154, 232 and 242 Squadrons. He destroyed Bf 109s on January 31 and February 25, got a probable Bf 109 on March 2, damaged a FW 190 on April 3, damaged a Ju 87 on the 5th, probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 13th, damaged Bf 109s on the 25th and 26th, destroyed a Ju 52 on the ground on May 6 and six Bf 109s on the ground next day. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (2.3.43), took command of 322 Wing on March 13 1943 and at the end of his operational tour he was awarded the DSO (1.6.43). Berry returned to the UK and on June 29 1943 he joined 53 OTU, Kirton-in-Lindsey, as OC Training Wing. He went to HQ ADGB in April 1944 and later took a course at the Army Staff College at Camberley. He commanded RAF Acklington in 1945/46, graduated from the Joint Services Staff College in 1955 and held a series of staff appointments in Fighter and Bomber Commands before his retirement on January 29 1969 as an Air Commodore. In 1965 he had taken part in Sir Winston Churchill’s funeral procession. Berry was made an OBE (1.1.46) and a CBE (1965). He died in September 2000.

was reported. The Defiants took off as the first bombs fell. Before they could form up, three were shot down by the fighter escort, Bf 109s from JG3. Berry’s aircraft, Defiant, L 7027, was one of the victims and he and his pilot, Flying Officer I G Shaw, were reported ‘Missing’. Berry was 23. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 12.

FREDERICK GEORGE BERRY 563426 F/Sgt Pilot British 1 Squadron Born on January 4 1914 at Fort William, Calcutta, Berry was the son of a physical training instructor of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers. Mr Berry took up a post at the Victoria Boys’ School, set up in the hills to provide an English public school type of education for children in India with a British background. Berry was educated at the School. His father applied successfully for him to become an Aircraft Apprentice in the RAF and Berry sailed for England, reporting to the No 1 S of TT, Halton on August 27 1929. On completion of the course, Berry passed out, as an AC 1 Metal Rigger on August 19 1932. On his 18th birthday, January 4 1932, Berry had signed on for a 12 year engagement in the RAF. He was then posted to 5 FTS, Sealand, promoted to LAC in August 1933 and on March 27 1934 he went to ‘C’ Flight, 24 Squadron at Hendon. On January 21 1935 Berry returned to RAF Halton for further training and was remustered as a Fitter I on May 11 1936. He had earlier volunteered for pilot training, was selected and on July 6 1936 Berry was posted to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, moving to 9 FTS, Thornaby on the 18th for flying training. After qualifying, Berry was posted to 43 Squadron at Tangmere on February 21 1937 as a Sergeant-Pilot. He joined No 1 Squadron on August 29 1939 and went with it to France at the outbreak of war. Promoted to Flight Sergeant on April 1 1940, Berry probably destroyed a Bf 109 on April 20, destroyed a Bf 110 on June 4 and a He 111 on the 5th. On No 1’s final operational patrol in France on June 17 1940, Berry was leading a section over the docks at St Nazaire when He 111s came in at low level to attack troopships loading there. Berry led his section to attack but could not stop the leading bomber from scoring direct hits on the Lancastrian, setting it on fire and causing it to sink later with heavy casualties amongst the 4000 troops on board. Berry shot the He 111 down in flames into the river. For this action he was awarded the DFM (20.8.40). On August 16 1940 Berry probably destroyed two He 111s in the Portsmouth area. He was shot down and killed on September 1, in combat with Bf 109s. His Hurricane, P 3276, crashed at Brisley Farm, Ruckinge. He received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.41). Berry is buried in Pinner New Cemetery, Harrow, Middlesex.

RONALD BERRY 78538 PO Pilot British

PO 1.12.39 FO 1.12.40 FL 1.12.41 SL 23.2.43 SL 1.9.45 WC 1.7.52 GC 1.7.59 AC 1.1.66

ROBERT CHARLES BERWICK 745915 Sgt Wop/AG British 25 Squadron Berwick, from Manor Park, Essex, joined the Aircraft Crew Section of the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. With training completed, he was with 25 Squadron by April 11 1940, as an LAC. He was promoted to Sergeant in June and served in the Battle of Britain. In early 1941 he was posted to 78 Squadron at Dishforth, as a Flight Sergeant, to fly in Whitleys. His aircraft failed to return from a bombing operation to Bremen on June 19 1941. Berwick was 22. He is buried in Reichswald Forest War Cemetery.

CHARLES BEVERIDGE 54030 Sgt Air Gunner British

219 Squadron

Beveridge was born on June 7 1915. He joined the RAF, as an Aircrafthand, in August 1935 (522807). He later remustered for training as an Air Gunner. With training completed, he joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on August 1 1940.

603 Squadron Five days later the Magister he was flying in, P2385, collided with high tension cables and crashed into the River Tees at Pierce Bridge, near Darlington, during a searchlight cooperation flight. Both he and the pilot, Flying Officer J C Carriere, escaped but both suffered injuries. Beveridge was treated for facial injuries and returned to duty but Carriere was non-effective sick for several weeks. Awarded the AFM (1.1.43), Beveridge was commissioned in August 1943 as a Flight Engineer. He was given an extended commission and he retired from the RAF on September 1 1952 as a Flight Lieutenant.

Born in Hull on May 3 1917, Berry was educated at Riley High School and Hull Technical School. After leaving he was employed in the department of the City Treasurer. He joined the RAFVR (740170) in April 1937 and did his weekend flying training at 4 E&RFTS, Brough. In February 1939 he spent three weeks with the RAF. He was attached to 66 Squadron at Duxford, to fly Spitfires. Called up at the outbreak of war, Berry spent a short time at a Gunnery School before joining 603 Squadron at Turnhouse on October 17 1939. In November he was one of a detachment sent to Montrose to protect the airfield there. On December 7 the 603 pilots drove off a formation of He 111s and damaged at least two. On June 30 1940 Berry damaged a Ju 88, on July 3 he shared a Ju 88, on the 23rd and 30th shared a Do 17 and a He 111 respectively, on August 28 probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another and on the 31st he destroyed three Bf 109s. On September 2 he destroyed a Bf 109, on the 11th damaged a Bf 109, on the 15th probably destroyed two Bf 109s and shared a Do 17, on the 17th he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 27th he destroyed two Bf 109s, probably a third and shared a probable fourth. On the 29th Berry probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another, on the 30th destroyed a Bf 109 and shared another, on October 8 probably destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 27th and 28th he damaged Bf 109s.

PO 22.8.43 FO 22.2.44 FL 22.8.45 FL 22.2 47

MICHAEL LEO ffRENCH BEYTAGH 39057 FL Pilot British 73 Squadron Beytagh was born in Shanghai in 1916, the son of a prosperous Irish business man. When his parents separated, Beytagh, his brother and sister were put in the care of Miss Esylt Newbery, who eventually became their guardian. After very unsettled schooldays, Beytagh was adopted at 13 by a Mr Morton, a wealthy American, and taken to the US. They did not get on and later he returned to Miss Newbery. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course at 5 E&RFTS, Hanworth on June 29 1936. He went for a short induction course at 24 (T) Group on August 24 and moved on to 8 FTS, Montrose on September 5.

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completed, Bicknell was posted to 29 Squadron at Debden in late September 1938. He moved to 23 Squadron at Wittering on September 9 1939 and was still with it in July 1940. The last mention of Bicknell in the 23 Squadron ORB is on September 4 1940. No further service details of Sergeant Bicknell have been traced.

With training completed, he joined 23 Squadron at Northolt on April 24 1937. Beytagh had a landing accident in Blenheim L 1424 on October 8 1939. He was unhurt but the aircraft was seriously damaged. Two days later he was taken off flying duties, on orders from HQ 12 Group. Beytagh was posted to 7 B&GS, Manby on December 13 1939, on flying duties. He moved to 10 B&GS on January 10 1940 and was still with the unit on July 1, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. He was posted to 73 Squadron at Church Fenton on July 24 1940 as ‘B’ Flight Commander. On September 5 he damaged a Ju 88, on the 6th he probably destroyed a Bf 109, on the 7th he claimed a Bf 110 shot down and on the 11th another damaged. From September 15 to 26 Beytagh took temporary command of the squadron, whilst the CO, Squadron Leader M W S Robinson, was recovering from wounds received when he was shot down on the 14th. In November 1940, 73 Squadron sailed for the Middle East, in the aircraft carrier HMS Furious. It flew off to Takoradi on December 1, to fly the ferry route north to Heliopolis. In December the pilots of 73 were attached to 274 Squadron in the Western Desert. In early January 1941 the squadron began to operate on its own account from Sidi Heneish. On the 5th Beytagh destroyed a CR 42 and on April 5 he got a Ju 87. In Takoradi for a rest, Beytagh and four other pilots were ordered to fly a Blenheim and two Hurricanes to Freetown on June 21 1941. Bad weather necessitated a forcedlanding in the jungle. Unable to take off again, they walked 72 miles in two days and three nights and arrived at the Firestone Rubber Plantation, 35 miles from Monrovia, Liberia. Beytagh returned to the UK in September 1941 and was posted to 52 OTU, Aston Down on December 17, as an instructor. He moved to 53 OTU, Llandow on December 31, as CFI. He went to 55 OTU, Annan on January 18 1942, again as CFI. On October 2 1942 Beytagh took command of 602 Squadron at Skeabrae, stationed there for the defence of Scapa Flow. In January 1943 602 flew south to Perranporth. On August 19 Beytagh damaged a FW 190 over Amiens/Glisy airfield. He received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.43) and was awarded the DFC (1.10.43), the citation crediting him with five enemy aircraft destroyed. On October 25 1943 Beytagh was posted to Air Ministry, in the Directorate of Air Transport Policy and Operations. On January 8 1945 he went for a course to RAF Staff College and on July 9 1945 he returned to Air Ministry as Deputy Director Plans. Beytagh left the RAF on January 10 1946 and in April went to Uganda, as an Administrative Officer in the Colonial Service. In March 1949 he was posted to Pemba, Tanganyika as District Commissioner. In 1950 he was moved to Zanzibar and later back to Pemba. He died there on August 12 1952 and was buried at sea.

LESLIE CHARLES BICKNELL 33131 SL Pilot British 23 Squadron Born on April 9 1913, Bicknell joined the RAF in January 1930, as an Apprentice (564112). He signed an engagement for 12 years on April 9 1931, his 18th birthday. Bicknell entered RAF College, Cranwell on a cadetship in January 1933. On his graduation on December 15 1934, with a Permanent Commission, he joined 29 Squadron at North Weald on the same day. He was posted to 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on December 30 1936, as a Flight Commander. In April 1938 Bicknell collided with Pilot Officer R R S Tuck, whilst they were practising aerobatics, and although his tail unit was sheared off, he managed to land safely. Bicknell went to the School of Photography at Farnborough on January 1 1939, as a supernumerary. He joined 23 Squadron at Wittering from HQ 6 Group on January 20 1940 and assumed command on the 23rd. He held the appointment until August 12 1940, when he was posted away to Fighter Sector, Wick, for Ops Room duties. Bicknell later graduated from RAF Staff College. He retired from the RAF on June 20 1949 as a Wing Commander, retaining the rank of Group Captain. He later went to live in South Africa and died there in 1991. PO 15.12.34 FO 15.6.36 FL 15.6.38 SL 1.8.39 WC 1.3.42 WC 1.10.46

ERIC GEORGE BIDGOOD 42098 PO Pilot British 229 and 85 Squadrons A Devonshire man, Bidgood joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his training on March 13 1939, as a pupil pilot. With training completed, he joined 266 Squadron at Sutton Bridge on November 6 1939.

APO 24.8.36 PO 29.6.37 FO 29.1.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.3.42

JOHN LAURANCE BICKERDIKE 36266 PO Pilot New Zealander

He moved to 229 Squadron at Digby on the 25th of the month and served with it in the Battle of Britain until September 1940, flying his last operational sortie on September 11. Bidgood then joined 85 Squadron at Church Fenton but appears not to have flown any operational sorties with the squadron before being posted to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on October 19 1940, en route to Malta. In fact he did not go to Uxbridge but reported direct to the aircraft carrier HMS Argus at King George V Dock in Glasgow on October 23. In mid-November the Argus sailed from Gibraltar with Hurricanes for Malta. Bidgood was one of six pilots who flew off the carrier on November 16 1940, in the second flight of Hurricanes, led by an FAA Skua. A series of mishaps saw the Hurricanes run out of fuel and fall, one by one, into the sea, with the loss of all six pilots. At the time of Bidgood’s death, his father was vicar of the Parish Church at Arkengarthdale in Yorkshire. With another local airman, lost in 1942, he is commemorated by a lectern and altar table in the church, dedicated to their memory. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 5.

85 Squadron

The son of a policeman, Bickerdike was born on February 11 1919, in Christchurch. He was educated at King’s Preparatory School and King’s College, Auckland excelling in athletics. He got a job as a radio announcer in Christchurch. He was accepted for an RNZAF short service commission in June 1939. He did his flying training at Wigram, completed the course, and sailed for England in early March 1940. He relinquished his RNZAF commission and transferred to the RAF in April 1940. Bickerdike went to No 1 Flying Practice Unit at Meir on April 28 and then to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 14. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 85 Squadron at Debden on May 24 1940. Bickerdike was with a section of the squadron, ordered off on July 12 to help protect convoy ‘Booty’ against an approaching raid by a large force of Do 17s and He 111s. The section intercepted the bombers before they could disperse. In this action, his first encounter with the Luftwaffe, Bickerdike shared in destroying a He 111. On July 22 1940 he was killed when he crashed near Debden during an aerobatic exercise. His funeral was held on the 26th and he is buried in Wimbish Parish Church cemetery, Essex.

APO 13.5.39 PO 6.11.39

IVOR KENNETH JACK BIDGOOD 748111 Sgt Pilot British 213 Squadron Bidgood, from Bristol, joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1 and was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on November 6 1939, on No 44 Course.

PO (RNZAF) 12.2.40 PO 13.4.40

N BICKNELL No unknown Sgt

Pilot

British

With training completed, he arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 18 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 213 Squadron at Wittering on the 25th. He flew his last operational sortie with the squadron on August 21 1940. Bidgood was killed on June 2 1941, aged 23, serving as a Flight Sergeant at 56 OTU at Sutton Bridge. His aircraft, Hurricane P 3162 collided with a Hurricane flown by Flight Sergeant J T Craig (qv) over Terrington St John, near King’s Lynn. Bidgood is buried in Canford Cemetery, Bristol.

23 Squadron

Bicknell was serving as an LAC in the regular RAF in 1937. He applied for pilot training and was selected. He did his ab initio course at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley in January and February 1938. He moved on to 9 FTS, Hullavington on March 5 1938. With his flying training

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ARTHUR JAMES BIGGAR 32168 SL Pilot British 111 Squadron

COLIN NORMAN BIRCH 41519 FO Pilot British 1 Squadron

Born on April 20 1914, Biggar joined the RAF on a short service commission in early 1932. On April 16 he was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham. He went on a further course at 2 FTS, Digby on March 21 1933, after which he joined 16 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Old Sarum.

Birch was born on November 27 1918 and joined the RAFVR in December 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741184). He joined the RAF on a short service commission in September 1938 and completed his flying training at 2 FTS, Brize Norton. In June 1939 Birch was posted to No 1 Squadron at Tangmere and he went with it to France at the outbreak of war. He returned to England on May 24 1940, reason unknown. No1 was not withdrawn until June 18. On August 19 Birch blundered into the London balloon barrage during a night patrol. He baled out and landed on the roof of a house. It took him a long time to convince the local people that he was British. His Hurricane crashed and burned out in Chatterton Road, Finsbury Park. Birch claimed a He 111 destroyed on August 30 and a Bf 109 on September 1. He was posted from No 1 to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on October 18 1940. The unit was redesignated 56 OTU in November. In 1941 Birch did an instructors’ course at CFS, Upavon. The unit moved to RAF Tealing in March 1942. He was at HQ Fighter Command in 1942 and the Fighter Leaders’ School at Aston Down in 1943. Awarded the AFC (8.6.44), Birch was posted to ADGB, Bentley Priory, moving in 1945 to the Central Fighter Establishment, West Raynham. In 1946 Birch served on the staff at Air HQ Northern Italy. He was Commandant of No 2 RAFVR Centre in 1947 and in 1948 he was granted a Permanent Commission. From 1949 until he retired on March 28 1958, Birch held a number of appointments, the final one being at Air Ministry on Intelligence duties. He retired on March 28 1958 as a Squadron Leader. Birch died on November 2 2005.

Biggar was posted to India, to join 20 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Peshawar on October 18 1933. Back in the UK in 1936, he was appointed to the staff of No 1 Armament Training Camp at Catfoss on September 27. A move to the permanent staff of 604 Squadron, AAF at Hendon came on July 31 1937. He was granted a Permanent Commission on April 1 1938. Biggar was posted away to HQ 13 Group on August 6 1939, as Squadron Leader Training and Auxiliary Liaison Officer. He left 13 Group for 6 OTU on September 18 1940, for a refresher course. After converting to Hurricanes, Biggar joined 111 Squadron at Drem on October 3 and took command two days later, staying with it until February 1941. He received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.41). Biggar remained in the RAF after the war, graduating from the Joint Services Staff College and the Army Staff College. He was made a CBE (2.1.56) and retired from the RAF on June 1 1958 as a Group Captain. He died in 1975. APO 1.4.32 PO 1.4.33 FO 1.10.34 FL 1.10.36 SL 1.4.39 WC 1.3.41 GC 1.7.44 GC 1.7.50

JOHN EDWARD BIGNELL 616568 Sgt Air Gunner British

25 Sqdn and FIU APO 14.11.38

Bignell, of Romford, Essex, joined the RAF, as an Aircrafthand, in July 1938. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. With training completed, he was with 25 Squadron in 1939.

PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.44 SL 1.8.47

RONALD ARTHUR BIRD Lieutenant (FAA) Pilot British

He took part in the attack on the Luftwaffe seaplane base at Borkum on November 28 1939. Twelve Blenheims took off from Bircham Newton, six from 25 Squadron and six from 601 Squadron. All aircraft returned safely and landed at Debden. Three He 115s were destroyed and another three damaged. It was the first fighter attack of the war on a German target. Bignell was still with 25 in July 1940 and flew his last operational sortie with the squadron on August 10. He later joined the Fighter Interception Unit and flew operationally with it in October 1940. He was still serving with the Unit, when he was killed on September 4 1941, as a Flight Sergeant. Bignell and his pilot, Flying Officer D M Lake, crashed in Beaufighter R 2335 at Eastergate, Sussex. Both men were killed. Bignell is buried in Romford Cemetery.

804 Squadron

Bird was born on May 7 1916 in North Witchford, March, Cambridgeshire. After leaving school, he worked as a clerk until joining the Royal Navy on November 1 1931, for boy service. On his 18th birthday, May 7 1934, he signed on for a regular engagement, as a Seaman Gunner (JX138002). Bird served on HMS Valiant, Ramilles and Curlew and, after some shore postings, he was commissioned from Acting Petty Officer to Acting Sub-Lieutenant on September 1 1937, in the Executive Branch of the Royal Navy. From June 6 1939 Bird was on the minesweeper HMS Niger. He was attached to the Fleet Air Arm on October 9 1939. He did his elementary flying course at 14 EFTS, Elmdon and went on to 7 FTS, Peterborough on December 11, on No 7 (FAA) Course. With training completed on May 27 1940, Bird did fighter courses with 759 and 769 (FAA) Squadrons, after which he was posted to 804 Squadron at Hatston on July 20 1940. The squadron was seconded to Fighter Command and its Sea Gladiators were used on dockyard defence. 804 was reformed as a Catapult Fighter Unit in March 1941, with Fulmars and Sea Hurricanes, Bird was assigned to the SS Ariguani. He was launched in a Fulmar twice, on April 30 and May 20 1941, landing each time at Sydenham, Northern Ireland. On October 4 1941 Bird was launched in a Hurricane from the Ariguani against a FW Kondor, which he intercepted and damaged. He baled out and was picked up by the ship’s boat 50 minutes later. In January 1942 he joined 881 Squadron on HMS Illustrious, from which he took part in operations in Madagascar. On May 6 1942 he shared in destroying a Potez 63. From March 1943 Bird commanded 881 Squadron, then on HMS Furious. On July 8 1943 he shared in the destruction of a BV 138. In November 1943 he took up a staff posting at Largs, Scotland. In November 1944 Bird was given command of 882 Squadron, then on HMS Formidable and later on HMS Searcher. On March 26 1945 he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another. He was awarded the DSC (26.6.45) for ‘courage, daring and tenacity in air strikes whilst serving with HMS Searcher off Norway’. He was awarded a Bar to the DSC (7.8.45) for ‘outstanding courage in air attacks against U-boat bases at Kilbotn, Norway’. On April 10 1946 Bird was killed in a flying accident in a Seafire whilst serving as CFI of 794 Squadron in HMS Garnet, an OTU at Eglinton, Northern Ireland. Bird was 29. His name is on the Fleet Air Arm Memorial at Lee-on-Solent.

ARTHUR EDWARD BINHAM 161311 Sgt Pilot British 64 Squadron Binham joined the RAFVR on January 2 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741204), and did his flying at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley. Called up on September 1 1939, he went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on October 8. After completing his training, he joined 64 Squadron at Church Fenton on December 18 1939. He operated over Dunkirk in June 1940. On July 13 Binham’s Spitfire, K 9795, was hit by anti-aircraft fire during combat with Bf 109s over Dover. He made a belly-landing at Hawkinge, unhurt. On the 29th his Spitfire, R 6643, was damaged by return fire from a Ju 87 over the Channel. Binham was escorted back to the coast by Pilot Officer J A A Gibson of 501 Squadron. Binham made a forced-landing near St Margaret’s Bay, again unhurt. Binham flew his last sortie with 64 on August 15 and then seems to have been attached to the Kenley Station Flight on the 19th. He was posted to 15 FTS, Chipping Norton on September 24 1940, as an instructor. He was sent to CFS, Upavon for an instructors’ course in January 1941, returning to 15 FTS in March. Binham was posted to 15 (P) AFU, Leconfield on February 10 1942. He was later sent as an instructor to 24 Air School, Nigel, South Africa, remaining there until August 1945. He was commissioned in October 1943 and awarded the AFC (14.6.45). He was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant.

Acting Sub-Lt 1.9.37 Sub-Lt 26.1.39 Acting Lt 1.4.39 Acting Lt-Cdr 1943

PO 24.10.43 FO 24.4.44 FL 24.10.45

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HAROLD ARTHUR COOPER BIRD-WILSON 40335 FO Pilot British 17 Squadron

Beaufighter crashed in daylight near Edenbridge and he and his air gunner, Sergeant C E P Castle, were killed. Birkett was 26 and is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, near his home at Chew Magna, Somerset.

Bird-Wilson was born at Prestatyn on November 20 1919, the son of a Bengal tea-planter. He started at an English boarding school at the age of four and a half, whilst his parents stayed in India. He went on to Liverpool College.

PO 10.10.40

MAURICE ANDREW BIRRELL Midshipman (FAA) Pilot British

He joined the RAF on a short service commission in 1937. His elementary flying began at 7 E&RFTS, Desford on September 27 1937, as a pupil pilot. He completed his training at 3 FTS, South Cerney. In August 1938 Bird-Wilson joined 17 Squadron at Kenley. He was immediately sent to Brough on a navigation course. On September 19, flying back to Brough in a BA Swallow, he ran into a storm and made for Cranwell. In bad weather he crashed and his pilot-passenger was killed. Bird-Wilson had severe facial injuries and was operated on four times by Archie McIndoe, the last time in October 1939, making him one of the first “Guinea Pigs”. Bird-Wilson arrived at 12 Group Pool on December 28 and after converting to Hurricanes he rejoined 17 Squadron on February 24 1940. He went to France with a squadron detachment on May 17. On the 18th he shared in the destruction of a Do 17, on the 19th damaged a Bf 109 and on the 21st shared a Hs 126. The 17 Squadron Hurricanes were withdrawn to England on the 23rd and then took part in operations over Dunkirk. Bird-Wilson damaged a Ju 87 on the 25th and shared a Ju 88 on the 26th. 17 Squadron returned to France on June 5 and operated from Le Mans and Dinard. Withdrawn on the 17th, via Jersey, it reached Tangmere on the 19th. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on June 14. Bird-Wilson shared in destroying a He 111 and damaging a Bf 110 on July 29 1940, he shared a Ju 88 on August 21, shot down a Bf 109 on the 25th, destroyed another and probably a second on the 31st, shared a Do 17 on September 3 and probably destroyed another on the 15th. Bird-Wilson was awarded the DFC (24.9.40). He was shot down by Adolf Galland on September 24. He baled out, burned, and was rescued from the sea by an MTB and admitted to the Royal Naval Hospital, Chatham. His Hurricane, P3878, crashed into the sea off Chatham. He returned to 17 Squadron on October 1and was posted to 56 OTU, Sutton Bridge in November, 1940, as an instructor. On January 17 1941 Bird-Wilson was posted to 55 OTU, Aston Down, then joined 234 Squadron at Warmwell on March 10, as a Flight Commander and on May 11 he got a probable Bf 109. He left the squadron and went to 52 OTU, Aston Down on August 9 1941 and on December 16 took command of ‘A’ Squadron there. In April 1942 he was given command of 152 Squadron at Eglinton, Northern Ireland. On November 17 1942 he took command of 66 Squadron at Zeals. In May 1943 Bird-Wilson was appointed Wing Leader 122 Wing. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (29.10.43) and rested in January 1944. He was sent to a Command and General Staff Course at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. He returned to the UK in April and was posted to 85 Group, Uxbridge, as Wing Commander Training, but on June 9 he was appointed to lead the Harrowbeer Spitfire Wing, moving later to lead the Bentwaters Mustang Wing. On August 11 1944 he shot down a Bf 109. For his Wing activities, Bird-Wilson was awarded the DSO (9.1.45). In February 1945 he was posted to 11 Group, Uxbridge and in May 1945 he took command of 1335 Jet Conversion Unit, Colerne. In 1945 he was awarded the Czechoslovak Medal of Merit 1st Class and the Dutch DFC. In a long post-war career, Bird-Wilson held many responsible appointments He was awarded the AFC (1.1.46) and a Bar (1.1.55) and was made a CBE in 1962. Bird-Wilson retired on June 1 1974, as an Air Vice-Marshal and he died on December 27 2000.

Birrell joined the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on July 1 1939, rated as a Midshipman (A). He did his elementary flying training at 14 EFTS, Elmdon and went on to 7 FTS, Peterborough on December 11, on No 7 (FAA) Course. He completed his training on May 27 1940. In response to Churchill’s request to the Admiralty for pilots, Birrell was one of those attached to the RAF on June 15 1940. He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 17th, converted to Hurricanes, and joined 79 Squadron at Biggin Hill on July 1. When the squadron was sent to Acklington for a rest on July 13, Birrell had flown only one operational sortie, on July 9, during which he damaged a Bf 109. He did not stay with 79 but returned to the Fleet Air Arm on July 20. He carried out fighter training with 760 Squadron at Eastleigh, before joining 804 Squadron at Hatston on August 31 1940. Birrell was slightly injured on active service on October 28 1940. After a short spell with 802 (FAA) Squadron, he returned to 804 when it became a Catapult Fighter Unit in March 1941. Birrell was the first pilot to be catapulted from a CAM ship. He sailed in the Michael E on May 28 1941, bound for New York. Five days out from Belfast, the ship was torpedoed by U 108 on June 2 in the Central North Atlantic and Birrell was among the survivors picked up after twenty hours in the boats. His next ship was the Ariguani. On August 26 he was shot off in a Fulmar to deal with a FW Kondor. He fired one burst before it vanished into cloud. Birrell headed for Northern Ireland, landed on a beach but, on enquiry, found that it was neutral Donegal. He took off again and reached Eglinton, almost out of fuel. In late October 1941 he survived when the Ariguani was torpedoed 300 miles off Lisbon on the 26th. Birrell was awarded the DSC (3.10.52) for service in HMS Glory in Korea. He retired in 1972 as a Commander and he died in 1990. Midshipman 1.7.39 Sub-Lt 23.4.42 Lt 25.5.43 Acting Lt-Cdr 1944 Cdr 31.12.56

JOHN DEREK BISDEE 76575 PO Pilot British

Lt-Cdr 25.5.51

609 Squadron

Born at Weston-super-Mare on November 20 1915, Bisdee was educated at Marlborough College and Corpus Christi College, Cambridge. A member of the RAFVR from July 1937 (741770), he was called up on September 1 1939, completed his training and was commissioned in December. He joined 609 Squadron on the 26th. Bisdee was with 609 at the start of the Battle of Britain. On July 18 he shared in damaging a He 111, on August 11 he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed, on the 25th another damaged, on September 7 a Bf 110 destroyed and one damaged, on the 26th a He 111 probably destroyed, on the 27th a Bf 110 shared, on the 30th a Bf 109 probably destroyed and on October 7 Bf 110 destroyed. In sweeps over France, Bisdee shared a Bf 109 on May 21 1941, shot down Bf 109s on June 17 and 22, probably destroyed another on the 24th and destroyed one on July 9. He was awarded the DFC (11.7.41) and went to 61 OTU, on July 31, as a Flight Commander. He was given command of 601 Squadron at Acaster Malbis on March 10 1942. On April 20 he led twelve 601 Spitfires off the US aircraft carrier Wasp, off Algiers, to fly to Malta. The next day, flying from Malta, Bisdee destroyed a Ju 88 but was then jumped by Bf 109s and he was shot down. He baled out and paddled ashore in a dinghy. On May 10 1942 Bisdee shot down a Cant 1007 and next day he probably destroyed a Bf 109. 601 Squadron left Malta on June 23 1942 for the Western Desert. Bisdee damaged a Me 210 on July 5 near Aboukir. On August 21 he was posted to HQ Middle East, as Fighter Training Officer, as Squadron Leader. He later went to Tunisia, as Wing Commander Day Fighters. In July 1943 Bisdee was appointed Military Governor of Lampedusa and in 1944 he commanded 323 Wing at Bone. He later took the Wing to Foggia, in Italy, where he was responsible not only for his Spitfire squadrons but also a Welligton anti-shipping squadron, 225 (Night fighter) Squadron and an ASR squadron. Bisdee was made an OBE (14.6.45) and released from the RAF in 1945 as a Group Captain. He had a successful post-war business career. He died on October 21 2000 and his ashes are buried in St Luke’s churchyard, Milland, Sussex.

APO 30.11.37 PO 27.9.38 FO 27.6.40 FL 27.6.41 SL 1.7.43 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.1.53 GC 1.1.58 AC 1.1.63 AVM 1.1.70

THOMAS BIRKETT 87634 PO Pilot British

79 and 804 Sqdns

219 Squadron

Birkett joined the RAFVR about July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741782). Having reached a high standard of training, he was one of the fifty VR pilots, who were offered six months of continuous training with the regular RAF. He took the opportunity and went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on July 15 1939. With training completed, Birkett joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on December 17 1939. He was pilot of a Blenheim, which made a belly-landing at Catterick on July 30 1940, when its undercarriage could not be lowered. The propellers and the under-fuselage were damaged but Birkett and his passenger, Sergeant E R Lacey, were both unhurt. Birkett was commissioned in October. On November 13 1940 his

PO 10.12.39 FO 10.12.40 FL 10.12.41 SL 18.6.43 WC 10.6.45

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DOUGLAS LEONARD BISGOOD 41896 PO Pilot British 3 Squadron

crashed into the sea off Land’s End following an engine failure during a patrol. He attempted to bale out but the canopy jammed and he was unable to leave the aircraft. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial.

Bisgood joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training at 11 E&RFTS, Perth on February 6 1939, as a pupil pilot. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on April 15 for a short induction course and moved to 2 FTS, Brize Norton in June. Training completed, he joined the newly-formed 253 Squadron at Manston on November 6 1939.

APO 16.3.34 PO 16.3.35 FO 16.9.36 FL 16.9.38 SL1.6.40 WC 1.12.41 WC 1.10.46

ALLAN BLACK 107476 Sgt Pilot British

54 Squadron

Black joined the RAFVR about October 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740809). He was called up on September 1 1939 and after completing his training, he joined 4 (C) Ferry Pilot Pool on May 12 1940 from 7 B&GS, Stormy Down.

Bisgood, together with Pilot Officers C G St D Jefferies and J B Hobbs, flew Hurricanes to France on May 13 1940 from Kenley, via Manston. The three pilots were taken on to the strength of 3 Squadron at Merville on the 14th. Bisgood shared a Do 17 on the15th and is believed to have had another victory before the squadron was withdrawn to Kenley on May. At Wick on July 23 1940 he collided with a Hudson of 269 Squadron, which was taking off downwind. Bisgood was taking off into the wind and they crashed head-on. He was seriously injured and the four members of the Hudson’s crew were killed. His Hurricane, P 2862, was written off. In early 1941 Bisgood was posted to 1403 Met Flight at Bircham Newton. On one occasion in April 1941, flying a Blenheim, he saw three Ju 88s heading back from a raid. He is believed to have shot one down into the sea. No further details known. Bisgood was awarded the DFC (2.1.42) for carrying out a large number of met flights, often in unfavourable weather conditions. At the time of the award, he was credited with three enemy aircraft destroyed. Bisgood was killed on April 18 1947 as a Squadron Leader with 202 Squadron, a Halifax unit, based at Aldergrove and carrying out meteorological flights over the Atlantic. With no known grave, Bisgood is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 286. He was 27.

He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 7, converted to Spitfires and joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on the 29th and made his first flight with it next day. Commissioned in September 1941, Black was killed on February 1 1944 as a Squadron Leader with 239 Squadron. He was 30 and is buried near his home in Knadgerhill Cemetery, Irvine, Ayrshire. PO 24.9.41 FO 6.7.42 FL 6.7.43

HERBERT ERNEST BLACK 740749 Sgt Pilot British 32, 257 and 46 Squadronss Black was born in Measham, Leicestershire. He joined the RAFVR (740749) about August 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1 1939 and was posted to 7 FTS, Peterborough on October 9, on No 12 Course. With training completed, he joined 226 Squadron in France on March 6 1940, to fly Fairey Battles. After the squadron was withdrawn to England on June 16, Black volunteered for Fighter Command. He was posted to OTU and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 32 Squadron at Acklington on September 3 1940. On the 17th he went to 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath and he made his last operational sortie wth the squadron on October 15. Black probably joined 46 Squadron at Stapleford Tawney on the 22nd. On October 29 Black was shot down in combat with Bf 109s and is believed to have crashed in Hothfield Park, near Ashford. He was wounded and badly burned. His wife was at his bedside when he died in Ashford Hospital on November 9 1940. Black was 26 and is buried in St Denys’ churchyard, Ibstock.

APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41

ERNEST RALPH BITMEAD 34139 SL Pilot British 29, 310, 229, 266 and 611 Sqdns Bitmead was born in 1913 in Cholsey, Berkshire. He joined the RAF on a short service commission in March 1934. On April 3 he was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand and on completion of his flying training, Bitmead joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on March 4 1935. He went as an instructor to 6 FTS, Netheravon on November 5 1936 and on July 16 1938 he went to 501 Squadron, AAF at Filton, on the permanent staff. He was posted to CFS, Upavon on January 9 1939, to instruct.

WILLIAM FRANCIS BLACKADDER 90282 FL Pilot British 607 Squadron

On July 8 1940 he took command of 29 Squadron at Digby but was posted away, non-effective sick, to SSQ, Digby on the 10th. He was transferred to RAF Hospital, Rauceby on the 11th and he was reposted to 29 Squadron on July 16, as a supernumerary, non effective sick. Bitmead was attached to HQ 12 Group at Duxford on August 22 1940 and on the 29th he joined 310 Squadron, also at Duxford, as CO, but this was cancelled by Air Ministry on the same day. He left Duxford on September 2 and joined 229 Squadron at Wittering, as a supernumerary. He flew one operational sortie with 266 Squadron from Wittering on September 15, patrolling Duxford. On the 16th Bitmead was posted from 229 to RAF Wittering, for Ops duties. On September 30 he went to Duxford, to take charge of the station, in the absence of Wing Commander A B Woodhall. Whilst there he flew seven sorties with 310 Squadron, between October 5 and 12. Bitmead left Duxford on October 16, on being posted to 611 Squadron at Digby. He assumed command on the 19th and flew his first operational sortie with 611 on November 10 1940. On December 21 Bitmead damaged a Do 17 and in January 1941 he destroyed a Bf 109 and a Do 215. In May, after an engagement over the Channel, his aircraft was damaged and he made a forced-landing in a field near East Grinstead. An insecure hood fractured the base of his skull. Bitmead was posted from 611 and on August 14 1941 he was given command of 71 (Eagle) Squadron at North Weald. After a week, he felt that he was not fit enough and relinquished his command. Bitmead was awarded the DFC (21.11.44) as an Acting Group Captain. He stayed on in the RAF after the war. He died of natural causes on December 17 1955, whilst still serving. He was cremated at Headington (Oxford) crematorium. Bitmead’s two brothers also died whilst serving with the RAF. Flying Officer P A Bitmead was killed on November 16 1941 when a Wellington of 148 Squadron was shot down by flak whilst attacking Benghazi. He is commemorated on the Alamein memorial. Flight Lieutenant E W Bitmead was killed on May 1 1943 with 65 Squadron. His Spitfire

Blackadder went to Edinburgh University. He joined 607 Squadron, AAF in early 1936. He was embodied for fulltime service on August 24 1939 and then flew to France with the squadron on November 15 1939 in a Gladiator. He was an Acting Flight Lieutenant and ‘A’ Flight Commander by April 1940. On May 11, the day after the Blizkrieg began, Blackadder shared in destroying a He 111 and claimed another destroyed, which was not confirmed. On the 18th Blackadder claimed a Do 17 destroyed but his Hurricane was hit by return fire and he made a crash-landing near Denais. The squadron suffered heavy losses in the fighting. It was withdrawn to England on the 20th and re-assembled at Croydon on May 22. Blackadder was awarded the DSO (4.6.40), the citation stating that he had shot down three enemy aircraft and carried out several very important reconnaissances of bridges and roads, at a time when information was hard to come by. At the start of the Battle of Britain, 607 was in the North, stationed at Usworth. On August 14 Blackadder damaged two He 111s and next day he destroyed one near Seaham. On both days the Germans were attempting to raid targets on the North East Coast. The squadron moved south to Tangmere on September 7 1940. On the 9th Blackadder shared in the destruction of a Do 17, on the 13th he damaged a Ju 88, on the 14th he shared two Ju 88s, on the 26th he shot down a He 111 and on October 4 he shared a probable He 111. On October 24 1940 Blackadder was detached to RAF Turnhouse, as Sector Controller in the Operations Room. This was made a permanent posting on November 6. He later did the same job at Usworth, Ouston, Prestwick and Ayr. He received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.41). He commanded 245 Squadron at Aldergrove from June 1941 to July 13 1942, when he was posted to 10 Group, as Controller at Rudloe Manor. Blackadder went for a course to the Army Staff College, Camberley on January 1 1943, after which he was posted to HQ Fighter Command, as Wing Commander Tactics, on May 7 1943. He moved to HQ Allied

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KENNETH HUGHES BLAIR 39704 FL Pilot British 151 Squadron

Expeditionary Forces on September 28. Blackadder’s final wartime posting was as CO of the Air Fighting Development Unit at Wittering. He was made an OBE (1.1.45) and was released from the RAF on November 19 1945. He rejoined 607 Squadron at Ouston in September 1946 and served with it until December 1948, after which he became CO of the Northumberland Wing, ATC until February 1951. Blackadder died in 1997.

Blair was born on February 15 1918 at Heaton Moor, Stockport. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his flying training on March 15 1937, as a pupil pilot. On June 5 he went to 11 FTS, Wittering and on June 1 1938, with training completed, he joined 85 Squadron at Debden.

PO (AAF) 1.6.36 FO (AAF) 1.12.37 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41 FL (AAF) 26.9.46

GEORGE DOUGLAS MORANT BLACKWOOD 32181 FL Pilot British 213 and 310 Squadrons

He went to France with the squadron at the outbreak of war. On May 10 1940 Blair destroyed a He 111 and shared another and on the 13th he destroyed two more. He was awarded the DFC (31.5.40). After the squadron’s return to Debden on May 22, Blair was posted away to 151 Squadron at Martlesham Heath. He was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant and made ‘B’ Flight

Educated at Eton, Blackwood was commissioned in Class ‘AA’ of the RAFO on June 26 1930. He relinquished this commission when he was granted a five year short service commission in the RAF on April 25 1932.

Commander on the 26th. Blair claimed a Bf 110 probably destroyed on July 29 1940, a Bf 109 destroyed on August 5, a Bf 110 shot down and another damaged on the 18th, a He 111 probably destroyed on the 24th, a He 111 destroyed on the 30th and a Do 17 destroyed, a Bf 109 probably destroyed and a Do 17 damaged on the 31st. On September 30 he shared a Ju 88. Blair and Sergeant P Copeland intercepted a Do 17 on a pre-dawn sortie over the East Coast on November 9, off Skegness. Although they claimed it as destroyed, it managed to reach Gilze-Rijen, with two of the crew wounded. On January 15 1941 Blair claimed a Ju 88 probably destroyed. On July 10 1941 Blair took command of 1453 Flight at Wittering, operating with Turbinlite Havocs and 151 Squadron Hurricanes. He was posted away on September 4 1942. In June 1943 Blair returned to operations, as a Flight Commander with 25 Squadron at Church Fenton. In October 1943, he was given command of 613 Squadron, at that time just transferred to 2 Group as a light bomber squadron, with Mosquito VIs, to specialise in low-level daylight attacks on particular buildings. The first operational sortie was made by Blair on December 19 1943. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (23.5.44) at the end of his tour. Blair stayed in the RAF and was serving at RAF Lindholme when he died on October 31 1953. He is buried at Hatfield Cemetery, South Yorkshire.

He did his flying training at 2 FTS, Digby. On August 26 1933, with training completed, he was posted to 25 Squadron, Hawkinge and took part in the 1934 Hendon Air Display, flying one of the tied-together Furies. In September 1934 Blackwood was seconded from the squadron to be Personal Assistant to the AOC Coastal Area, Lee-on-Solent. He returned to Hawkinge on July 1 1935. Six months later Blackwood was posted to 600 Squadron, AuxAF at Hendon, as Assistant Adjutant and Flying Instructor. After being granted an extension of service on April 25 1937, he went to Class ‘AA’ of the RAFO on April 25 1938 and joined the family publishing business. Recalled on September 1 1939, Blackwood was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand, as an instructor. He was serving on the staff at HQ 23 Group in January 1940. On May 20 he was posted from there to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, for a refresher course, after which he requested an operational flying posting. Blackwood went to Fighter Sector, Dyce on June 5 1940, as Squadron Leader Ops. On the 7th he was posted to 213 Squadron at Wittering, as a supernumerary. He made his last flight with it on July 16. Blackwood was posted to Duxford on the 18th, to form and command 310, the first Czech fighter squadron. It became operational on August 17 1940 and on the 26th Blackwood destroyed a Do 17. He was himself shot down and baled out, unhurt. His Hurricane, P3887, crashed at Maldon. On October 28 he damaged a Do 17. He was awarded the Czech Military Cross (24.12.40) and posted away to HQ 12 Group on December 31 1940. Blackwood went to Northern Ireland for a year, commanded a station in 10 Group and then formed 134 Wing in preparation for the invasion of Normandy. He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Wing Commander. Blackwood died in March 1997. PO (RAFO) 26.6.30 APO 25.4.32 PO 25.4.33 FL (RAFO) 25.4.38 FL 1.9.39 SL 1.12.40 WC1.3.42

CHARLES EDWARD BLAIR 78743 PO Air Gunner British

FO 25.10.34

APO 18.5.37 PO 15.3.38 FO 15.10.39 FL 15.10.40 SL 1.12.40 SL 1.12.41 WC 1.1.52

PIERRE MICHEL BLAIZE 30490 Adjudant Pilot French

111 Squadron

Blaize was born at Sainte Leocadie on November 1 1915. When the Armistice was signed on June 22 1940, he was a instructor at Meknes, in North Africa. Seeing that the continuation of the war was a vain hope, Blaize and Georges Perrin (qv) decided to escape to England. They took the personal aircraft of the base commandant, a Caudron Goeland, and flew it to Gibraltar on June 30. They sailed from there on July 3, in the French armed trawler President Houduce, and reached Liverpool on the 13th. They were sent to a Receiving Centre at Olympia, London on the 19th. Blaize moved to 4 S of TT, St Athan on July 27 1940 and on the 29th he was posted to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum, for testing and grading. He went to RAF Odiham on August 10, where he spent a week flying in Tiger Moths and Hectors, before going to 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 18th. After converting to Hurricanes, Blaize joined 111 Squadron at Drem on October 10 1940. In mid-March 1941 he was posted to 615 Squadron at Kenley, to replace Bouquillard (qv). On April 15, during a patrol over the Pas de Calais, Blaize fell behind the squadron because of some unknown technical reason. He was attacked from the rear by two Bf 109s and, with his aircraft badly damaged. He baled out some ten miles from the English coast. His descent was covered right down to the sea by one of his squadron. Blaize was seen to release himself from his parachute before a shortage of fuel forced the 615 aircraft to return to base. When rescue craft came, the parachute was there but Blaize had disappeared, never to be seen again.

FL 25.10.36

600 Squadron

Blair, from Wallington, Surrey, was educated at Whitgift School, Croydon. He volunteered for aircrew duties in the RAF at the outbreak of war. He was commissioned in April 1940, as a direct-entry Air Gunner. He was at 7 B&GS, Manby on No 12 Air Gunner Course from May 6 to June 1 1940. He joined 600 Squadron at Manston in early June and made his last flight with the squadron, an operational sortie, on July 15. Blair was posted away soon afterwards and joined 98 Squadron at Newton, a Fairey Battle unit, which was soon to leave for Iceland. He flew from Wick to Kaldadarnes, in Battle P 6570, on September 14. He was slightly injured, when the pilot made a forcedlanding on arrival in Iceland. Blair returned to Britain in the SS Antonia on October 26 1940 and was at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge by November 8. From there he was later posted to 218 Squadron at Oakington. He was killed on April 25 1941, serving with 218 Squadron, based at Marham, Norfolk. Blair was rear gunner in Wellington R 1507, which took off from Marham at 20.54 hrs on an operation to Kiel. A W/T call from the aircraft was picked up at 23.56 hrs, asking for assistance, and a bearing taken from the transmission placed the Wellington 80 miles off the Dutch coast. Blair was 33 and with no known grave, he is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 31 and on a memorial plaque at Whitgift School, unveiled on November 10 2006.

ARTHUR GILES BLAKE Sub-Lieutenant (FAA) Pilot

British

19 Squadron

Blake was born in 1917 and educated at Slough Grammar School. After leaving, he worked for Naylor Brothers, Slough. In 1938 he successfully applied for a commission in the Royal Navy, with a view to gaining entry to the Fleet Air Arm. Blake entered the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on May 1 1939, as a Midshipman (A), and went to Greenwich Naval College for basic training, on Pilots’ Course No 6, from May 2.

APO 12.4.40 PO 1.6.40

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JOHN WELLBURN BLAND 90895 PO Pilot British 601 and 501 Squadrons

In late August 1939 he went to 14 E&RFTS, Elmdon and then moved on to No 1 FTS, Leuchars on November 6 1939, on No 6 Course. Awarded his wings in March 1940, Blake went to HMS Raven at Southampton, for deck-landing training, with 759 and 760 Squadrons. After completing his training, Blake went into Fleet Air Arm service. On June 15 1940 he was attached to the RAF and posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden, to convert to Spitfires. On July 1 he joined 19 Squadron at Duxford. On September 3 Blake damaged a Bf 110, on the 9th destroyed a He 111, on the 15th he destroyed a Bf 109, shared a He 111 and damaged a Do 17 and on the 27th he destroyed two more Bf 109s. Blake was acting as weaver during a patrol over South London on October 29 1940, when he was shot down and killed, probably picked off by a Bf 109. His Spitfire, P 7423, crashed in London Road, Chelmsford. Before his death, he had been recommended for the DFC. He is buried in St Mary’s churchyard, Langley, Buckinghamshire.

Bland was born on May 9 1910, the son of the Vicar of St Matthew’s, Cotham Park, Bristol. He was educated at Monkton Coombe School, near Bath, after which he went on to Bristol University. It is believed that he later qualified as an accountant. He joined 501 Squadron, AAF before the war and was granted a commission in June 1939. Called to full-time service on August 24, Bland was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on October 9 1939, on No 43 Course. He completed his training on April 27 1940 and joined 601 Squadron at Tangmere. Bland made his first flight with the squadron on May 14, Hurricane experience. He flew his first operational sortie on the 22nd and claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on June 7, shot down E of Treport. On July 11 he shared a Do 17. On July 12 Bland was posted back to his old squadron, 501, then based at Middle Wallop. He rejoined it there on the 20th. He claimed a Ju 87 shot down over Dover on the 29th. His own port mainplane was hit by return fire but Bland got back to base. On August 18 he was shot down and killed, by Oberleutnant Schoepfel of JG 26. His Hurricane, P 3208, crashed at Calcot Hill, Sturry, Kent. Bland was 26. He is buried in Gravesend Cemetery.

Midshipman 1.5.39 Acting Sub-Lt 16.9.39 Sub-Lt 14.6.40

MINDEN VAUGHAN BLAKE 36095 SL Pilot New Zealander

238 and 234 Sqdns

Blake was born on February 13 1913 at Eketehuna and was educated at Southland Boys’ High School and Canterbury University. He graduated in 1934 with an MSc and he gained Honours in mathematics. In 1935 he was appointed a lecturer in Physics at Canterbury.

APO (AAF) 12.6.39 APO 24.8.39 PO 4.5.40

WILLIAM HIGGINS BLANE 1052333 AC 2 Radar Operator

After just missing a Rhodes Scholarship two years running, Blake applied to join the RAF as a University Entrant. Against stiff competition, he was accepted, possibly because of an outstanding athletic record. Blake sailed for England in November 1936 and on December 21 he began an elementary flying course at the Civil Reserve Flying School at Brough. Having proved his aptitude for flying, he was granted a Permanent Commission on March

British

604 Squadron

Blane joined the RAFVR in June 1940 at 3 RAF Depot, Padgate, as an Aircrafthand. After a short radar course at RAF Yatesbury, he was posted to 604 Squadron at Gravesend on July 20, as aircrew but with no flying training, rank or brevet. He flew at least one operational sortie during the Battle of Britain period, on September 5 1940, with Flight Lieutenant C D E Skinner as pilot. Blane was still with 604 in November 1940. No further service details traced.

9 1937. In late March he was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand and with the course completed on October 20, he joined 17 Squadron at Kenley. Blake was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander in June 1938. On September 8 1939 Blake was approaching Croydon to land, when, realising that he was going to overshoot, he opened his throttle and his engine stopped. At 300 feet, he slowed to stalling speed, hit the chimney of a nurses’ home and flipped on to his back into the foundations of the new Purley Hospital. The cause of the engine failure was found to be hay in the air intake, the result of parking aircraft in the open at Croydon for the first time. A small modification by Rolls Royce stopped any further occurrence. Blake escaped with a cut head. On April 10 1940 he was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill, as an instructor, but on August 11 he went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge for a refresher course and took temporary command of 238 Squadron at St Eval on the 16th, as a Flight Lieutenant, when the CO, Squadron Leader H A Fenton was hospitalised after being shot down on August 8. On the 21st Blake destroyed a Ju 88, shared a Do 17 on the 27th, destroyed a Ju 88 on September 11 and a He 111 on the 15th. Blake relinquished his command when Fenton returned on the 13th and he left 238 on September 21, to take command of 234 Squadron, also at St Eval. He shared a Do 215 on November 24 and two Do 17s on the 29th, when 234 escorted the damaged destroyer HMS Javelin into Plymouth. On December 20 he damaged a Do 17. He was awarded the DFC (20.12.40). Blake shared a Bf 110 on March 11 1941, destroyed a Ju 88 on May 8 and a Bf 109 four days later. On July 10 234 escorted Blenheims to attack shipping at Cherbourg. After shooting down two Bf 109s and probably another, Blake was hit and ditched in the sea seven miles from the French coast. In twelve hours, with a favourable wind, he paddled his dinghy to within two miles of the Isle of Wight and was picked up. In late July 1941 Blake was appointed Wing Leader of the Polish Wing at Exeter and two months later he went as Wing Leader to Portreath. He was awarded the DSO (27.7.42). Over Dieppe on August 19 1942, Blake destroyed a FW 190 but was then himself shot down into the sea. After paddling all day and the following night, he was picked up by a German launch, when only five miles from Dover. Blake spent his long captivity working on a new kind of rotary engine, which in post-war years proved to be too expensive to develop. Released in May 1945, Blake remained in the RAF, holding staff appointments at home and overseas. He retired in January 1958 as a Wing Commander. He died in England on November 30 1981.

HOWARD PETER BLATCHFORD 37715 FL Pilot Canadian 17 and 257 Squadrons Blatchford, from Edmonton, Alberta, was born on February 25 1912. He was educated at Concordia College and Eastwood High School. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his training on February 3 1936, as a pupil pilot. On April 18 he was posted to 6 FTS, Netheravon and on January 10 1937, with training completed, he joined 41 Squadron at Catterick. On October 17 1939 Blatchford gained the first Canadian victory of the war, when he shared in the destruction of a He 111 25 miles E of Whitby. Blatchford joined 234 Squadron at Leconfield on November 1 1939, as a Flight Commander. This proved to be an administrative error and he rejoined 41 Squadron on the 4th. In April 1940 he went to 212 Squadron at Heston. Blatchford went to France to photograph bridges, concentrations of troops and movements. He flew back to Heston in early June. The squadron was disbanded on the 18th and absorbed by the Photographic Development Unit. On July 1 1940 Blatchford moved to St Eval, with ‘B’ Flight of the PDU. The Flight was redesignated the Photographic Reconnaissance Unit on July 8. Blatchford returned to Heston on August 17 and on September 30 1940 he joined 17 Squadron at Debden. He shared in destroying a Do 17 on October 2 and then had to make a forced-landing near Bacton, out of fuel. On October 4 Blatchford was posted to 257 Squadron at North Weald, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. The squadron met the Italian Air Force on November 11 1940 and Blatchford destroyed a Fiat BR 20 and shared another and damaged a Fiat CR 42 by ramming it with his propeller, he being out of ammunition. On November 17 he shot down a Bf 109 into the sea. He was awarded the DFC (6.12.40). On March 19 1941 he got a probable Ju 88 and on the night of May 11/12 he shot down a He111. Blatchford took command of 257 in July, when Squadron Leader R R S Tuck left to lead the Duxford Wing. n September Blatchford was promoted, to lead the Canadian Wing at Digby. On February 18 1942 he damaged a Do 217 and on April 25 shot down a FW 190. Soon after this Blatchford was rested. A return to operations, as Wing Leader of the Coltishall Wing, came on February 5 1943.

PO 9.3.37 FO 9.9.37 FL 9.9.39 SL 1.9.40 WC 1.10.46

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Netheravon from November 1941 to late January 1942. He was at 17 AFU, Watton until mid-March 1942, when he moved to 60 OTU, East Fortune. In July 1942 he joined 287 Squadron at Croydon, an AACU, equipped with Defiants. In January 1943 Blomeley went to 51 OTU, Cranfield, to convert to Mosquitos and in early April he joined 605 Squadron at Castle Camps, flying Mosquitos on night-intruder operations. During the night of August 17/18 1943 he destroyed a Bf 109 E of Schleswig. On September 21 Blomeley shot down two Ju 88s near the entrance of the Skagerrak and on November 9 he shot down a Bf 110 W of Aalborg. He was awarded the DFC (26.10.43). At this time Blomeley’s Mosquito had 14 swastikas painted on the nose, 9 of which he claimed as ‘confirmed’. Posted away in February 1944, he went to 60 OTU, High Ercall, as CFI. In mid-April he moved to 13 OTU, as Gunnery Leader and instructor. In July 1945 he carried out trials of the Tempest II at Middleton St George. Blomeley was released from the RAF in March 1946 and began training as a forester at the Forest of Dean Foresters’ School. He rejoined the RAF in early 1950, held several instructing posts and took part in the Coronation Review Flypast in 1953. Blomeley received the Queen’s Commendation in 1953 and was awarded the AFC (10.6.54). He was in 40 Squadron, flying Canberras at Wittering in 1954 and joined 138 Squadron at Gaydon in February 1955. The squadron’s Valiants took part in the Suez operations in October 1956, carrying out bombing raids on airfields at Fayid and Almanza, flying from a base in Malta. The squadron returned to Marham in December. Blomeley retired on February 20 1958 as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. He lived in New Zealand for many years and was at some time working in the Forest Service. He retired to England in 1985 and died there on June 17 1991.

He destroyed two Fw 190s on March 18, damaged another on April 4 and probably another on May 2. The Wing escorted bombers to attack the power station at Amsterdam on May 3 1943. Blatchford was shot down and ditched in the sea forty miles off the English coast. Searches failed to find any trace of him. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 118. APO 30.3.36 PO 3.2.37 FO 3.11.38 FL 3.9.40

SL 1.12.41

ADOLF JARVIS BLAYNEY 90538 FO Pilot British 609 Squadron Blayney was educated at Stowe School. He joined the RAFVR on January 25 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740001). In 1938 Blayney transferred to 609 Squadron, AAF and was commissioned on November 20. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939. On July 11 1940 Blayney destroyed a Bf 109. On July 29 he blacked out at 12000 feet, came to at 1000 feet and landed at Boscombe Down. Taken off operational flying, he went from 609 to 4 Ferry Pilot Pool on August 16. Blayney went to CFS on August 25 for an instructor’s course, after which he was posted to Training Command, remaining with it until his release from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. For his services as an instructor, Blayney was awarded the AFC (2.4.43). He died in 1997.

APO 7.5.38 PO 7.3.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.1.44 FL 21.5.46 APO (AAF) 20.11.38 PO 24.8.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

FRANK BLENKHARN 1002007 Sgt Radar Operator

ERNEST BLOOR 564830 Sgt Pilot British

British

46 Squadron

25 Squadron Bloor went to Cockburn High School, Leeds. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice, in September 1930 and passed out in August 1933, as a Fitter, Aero Engines. He later applied for pilot training and was selected.

Born on April 28 1920, Blenkharn joined the RAFVR in May 1940 at 3 RAF Depot, Padgate for the duration of hostilities. After a short radar course, he was posted to 25 Squadron at Martlesham Heath in September. He flew three operational sorties in October.

Bloor was with 46 Squadron by June 25 1940. On July 22 he shared a Do 17, on September 2 he destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 3rd he damaged a Do 17 but was himself shot down in combat over Canewdon and baled out, with burns on his face. His Hurricane, P 3024, crashed into the sea wall at Beckney Farm, South Fambridge. There is no further mention of Bloor in the squadron ORB up to the end of 1940, so his burns may have been serious enough to keep him off operations. He was killed on August 27 1941, when his Hurricane, Z 3843, crashed near Horsham, whilst on a searchlight cooperation flight. At the time of his death he was 27 and serving with No 1 Squadron. Bloor was buried near his home, in Stamford Cemetery, Lincolnshire. In the 1990s the site of Bloor’s fatal crash was included in a housing development and a road was named after him.

In the evening of December 7 1940 Blenkharn was one of the crew of a Blenheim, detailed to check the black-out over Peterborough. During the patrol the weather deteriorated and a bad storm developed. In very bad visibility the Blenheim collided with an aircraft which had been training pilots in night landings at Peterborough aerodrome. Blenkharn’s pilot, Flight Lieutenant J McC M Hughes and the gunner, Sergeant J R Friend, were both killed and six men from the other aircraft also lost their lives. Blenkharn himself spent three weeks in Peterborough Hospital and then four months in RAF Hospital, Rauceby. He did not fly again but went on to Flying Control duties, serving in various parts of Britain. He spent his last six months of service at Dum Dum in India. He was released from the RAF in early 1947. Blenkharn died in 1996.

DAVID HENRY BLOMELEY 40665 FO Pilot British 151 Squadron

KENNETH LESLIE OWEN BLOW 751684 Sgt Observer British 235 Squadron

Blomeley was born on May 12 1916, son of a headmaster. He was at King Edward’s School, Stafford in 1933/34. He applied for a short service commission in the RAF in December 1937 and was provisionally accepted.

Blow joined the Aircraft Crew Section of the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer. He was called to full-time service on September 1. With training completed, he joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton from 4 B&GS, West Freugh on March 26 1940 and was with it throughout the Battle of Britain.

He began his ab initio flying at 7 E&RFTS, Desford on March 7 1938 and was posted to 11 FTS, Shawbury on May 7 1938. With training completed, he joined No 1 Squadron at Tangmere on December 17 1938 and he was still with it when it went to France in September 1939. Blomeley moved to 92 Squadron at Croydon on March 8 1940, then to 25 Squadron on the 21st and finally to 151 Squadron at North Weald on April 13 1940. He was attached to 607 Squadron in France from May 13 to 26, during which time he claimed to have destroyed five enemy aircraft. After rejoining 151 on May 27, Blomeley claimed a Bf 110 destroyed over Dunkirk on May 29. On June 8 1940 he was shot down by flak over Amiens and baled out. Evading capture, he escaped from Cherbourg in late June, with survivors from the 51st Highland Division. Back with 151, he damaged a Bf 110 on July 29. Blomeley made his last flight with the squadron on August 16, an uneventful one, from North Weald to Rochford. He was posted away to 9 FTS, Hullavington, as an instructor. Blomeley later took an instructors’ course at CFS, Upavon and instructed at No 1 FTS,

On November 19 1940 Blow was posted with his flight to RAF Aldergrove, where it combined with a flight from 236 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron. He flew his first operational sortie with 272 on the 24th. In 1943 Blow was with 487 Squadron, as a Warrant Officer, flying in Mosquitos. Awarded the DFC (15.6.43), he was lost on December 10 1943 when his aircraft failed to return to Sculthorpe from a sweep over Germany. Blow was 22. He is buried in Den Ham General Cemetery, Netherlands. The pilot, Flight Sergeant Thomas Mair was also killed and is buried in the same cemetery.

MICHAEL CHRISTOPHER BINDLOSS BODDINGTON 88017 Sgt Pilot British 234 Squadron Boddington, who was born at Hawkshead in Lancashire, joined the RAFVR in 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740604). Called up on September 1 1939, he was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on the 9th, on No 13 Course, for advanced training only, which he completed on November 6 1939.

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he commanded 152 from November 14 1940 to June 17 1941, when he was posted to 59 OTU, Crosby-on-Eden. On September 18 1941 Boitel-Gill was killed, when he dived into the fuel dump at Crosby-on-Eden. He was then Wing Commander Flying at 59 OTU. He was 30. Boitel-Gill was cremated at West Norwood Crematorium.

His whereabouts until he arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 6 1940 are unknown. He converted to Spitfires and then joined 249 Squadron on May 29. Boddington was posted to 234 Squadron at Church Fenton on June 9 1940. He claimed a Do 17 destroyed on August 12, he shot down a Ju 88 on the 14th, two Bf 110s on September 4 and destroyed BF 109s on the 5th and 6th. Boddington destroyed a Ju 88 on October 28, damaged a He 111 on November 2, damaged a Ju 88 on the 29th and destroyed a Do 17 on December 5. He was commissioned in November and awarded the DFM (26.11.40). Boddington damaged a Ju 88 on February 15 1941. Soon afterwards he was posted to 118 Squadron at Filton, as a Flight Commander. With his operational tour completed in September 1941, he went to HQ 10 Group and towards the end of the year he joined 286 Squadron at Filton, on anti-aircraft co-operation duties. In September 1942 Boddington was given command of 19 Squadron at Perranporth and led it until December. In May 1943 he was posted to North Africa, to command 242 Squadron. He took it to Malta in June and to Lentini East in Sicily in July. Boddington claimed a Bf 109 and a He 111 destroyed on July 10, shared a Ju 88 the next day and destroyed a Bf 110 on the 13th. He was awarded the DFC (10.9.43). He commanded 242 until its disbandment at Gragnano on November 4 1944. Boddington was released from the RAF in February 1946 as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1977, possibly in New Guinea. PO 11.11.40

PO 13.9.29 FO 13.3.31 FO (RAFO) 13.9.34 FL 22.4.40 SL 1.12.40

HENRY ALBERT BOLTON 754530 Sgt Pilot British 79 Squadron Bolton, of West Hartlepool, joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1 and after his elementary training, he moved to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on March 25 1940, on No 46 Course. With training completed on July 11, Bolton joined 79 Squadron at Acklington two days later. The squadron moved south on the 27th, to Biggin Hill. On August 30 Bolton probably destroyed a Bf 109. Next day he was shot down in combat over Kenley, in Hurricane V 7200. He was killed, whilst attempting to make a forced -landing at Haliloo Farm, Warlingham. Bolton was 21. He is buried in Stranton Cemetery, Hartlepool.

FO 21.5.41 FL 21.5.42

CRELIN ARTHUR WALFORD BODIE 42790 PO Pilot British 66 Squadron

CAMILLE ROBESPIERRE BONSEIGNEUR 42791 PO Pilot Canadian 257 Squadron

Bodie was born at Kirton in 1920, and went to Ipswich School. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training on August 14 1939.

Bonseigneur was born in Gull Lake, Saskatchewan on May 27 1918. He joined the Royal Canadian Signals on September 28 1937 and was discharged by purchase on June 13 1939.

He went on to 9 FTS, Hullavington on November 6, on No 15 Course. With training completed, Bodie was posted to 66 Squadron at Duxford on May 13 1940. On July 8 he claimed a He 111 destroyed, on August 8 shared a He 111, on the 19th shared a probable He 111 and on the 20th he shared in destroying two Bf 110s. On the 31st Bodie shared a Do 17, on September 2 shared a He 111, on the 4th got a probable Bf 109, on the 6th damaged two Bf 109s, on the 11th destroyed a He 111 and on the 15th destroyed two Do 17s and shared in the destruction of two others. Bodie claimed a He 111 destroyed on September 18, a Bf 109 probably destroyed on the 24th, a Ju 88 damaged on October 5, a Bf 109 destroyed on the 11th, two more probably destroyed and two others damaged on the 12th and three probably destroyed on the 13th, 25th and November 14. He was awarded the DFC (8.11.40). In March 1941 Bodie was posted to 310 Squadron at Duxford, as a Flight Commander. He moved to 152 Squadron at Portreath in June 1941. He was killed in a flying accident on February 24 1942, possibly whilst performing aerobatics. He was 21. Bodie is buried in the churchyard of St Canice, Eglinton, Co Antrim.

Interviewed in Canada for an RAF short service commission, he was provisionally granted one. He went to England and began his elementary flying training on August 14 1939, as a pupil pilot. With his training completed, Bonseigneur was posted to 257 Squadron, at its reformation at Hendon on May 17 1940. He shared in the destruction of a Do 17, shot down into the sea off Brighton, on July 19. Shot down by Bf 109s over Essex on September 3 1940, Bonseigneur baled out but fell dead at The Grove, Ingatestone. His Hurricane, P 3518, crashed at Lodge Farm, Galleywood, Essex. He was 22 and is buried in Saffron Walden Cemetery, Essex. APO 23.10.39 PO 11.5.40

PETER VICTOR BOOT 76455 PO Pilot British

1 Squadron

Boot was born in Walsall on September 12 1916 and he was educated at Bishop’s Heath School, Sutton Coldfield. He joined the RAFVR in July 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740531), and he was called up on September 1 1939.

APO 23.10.39 PO 18.5.40 FO 18.5.41

DEREK PIERRE AUMALE BOITEL-GILL 28142 FL Pilot British 152 Squadron

He was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on the 9th, on No 13 Course, for advanced flying training only. After completing his training, Boot joined 235 Squadron at Manston on November 6 1939. He arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on February 1 1940. The unit was redesignated 6 OTU on March 6. Boot converted to Hurricanes and was posted to No 1 Squadron on March 23. He joined the squadron in France on the 30th. Boot claimed a Bf 109 damaged on May 12, shared a Bf 110 on the 14th and destroyed a Do 17 on the 16th. On June 5 Boot forced a He 111 to land in a field near Rouen. Having expended all his ammunition in combat, he made diving passes on the straggling bomber until it went down. Boot also shot down a Do 17 on the same day. He flew back to England with the squadron on June 17. On August 31 1940 Boot damaged a Bf 110 and on September 1 he destroyed a Bf 109. Awarded the DFC (1.10.40), he was posted to 5 OTU on October 18, as an instructor. He was posted to CFS on February 22 1941. On September 8 1941 Boot joined 4 SFTS in Canada, as an instructor. There is a possibility that he may have returned to operations towards the end of the war. Released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant, Boot joined the family quarry

Boitel-Gill was born in 1911 at Thames Ditton and educated at Milbourn Lodge School and Steyne School, Worthing. He joined the RAF in 1929, went to 5 FTS, Sealand and joined 3 Squadron at Upavon on September 9 1930. He went on to the RAFO in 1934. Sometime personal pilot to the Nizam of Hyderabad, Boitel-Gill was a pilot with Imperial Airways. He was recalled to the RAF in April 1940 and on the 12th he joined 152 Squadron as a Flight Commander. On May 5 1940 Boitel-Gill was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down. After he had converted to Spitfires, he was retained to assist in instructing new pilots on Defiants and rejoined 152 Squadron on July 27 1940. Boitel-Gill destroyed a Ju 88 on August12. On this day he took command of ‘A’ Flight, after Flight Lieutenant L C Withall was posted ‘Missing’. On the 15th Boitel-Gill destroyed two Bf 110s and a Ju 87, on the 18th another Ju 87, on September 25 a Ju 88 and a Bf 109, on the 26th a Ju 88 and on October 19 he damaged a Ju 88. Awarded the DFC (22.10.40),

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JAN BOROWSKI P 0250 FO Pilot

and mining business. When some of it was nationalised by the Labour Government, he went into property development and management. He died in September 1984. PO 1.12.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41

FRED BOOTH 1002642 AC 2

Radar Operator

British

23 Squadron

Borowski arrived in England, probably from France after that country fell in June 1940. On September 25 Borowski went to 5 OTU, Aston Down and converted to Hurricanes and joined 302 Squadron at Northolt on October 17. The next day, in deteriorating weather conditions, Borowski was in Green Section of ‘B’ Flight, which became lost returning to Northolt from a patrol of the Maidstone area. Borowski was killed, when his Hurricane, P 3930, went into a steep dive, then crashed and burned out on Kempton Park racecourse, whilst attempting a forced-landing. Pilot Officer P E G Carter, also of Green Section 302, crashed and was killed within 200 yards of Borowski, on the racecourse. Two other 302 pilots, Pilot Officers S Wapniarek and A Zukowski were also killed in the same incident but crashed in other locations. Borowski was 28. He is buried in Northwood Cemetery, Middlesex.

He flew his first operational sortie on the 24th and continued to operate with 23 Squadron for the remainder of the Battle of Britain period. He was still serving with the squadron in November 1940. No further service details traced.

GLENDON BULMAR BOOTH 748586 Sgt Pilot British 85 Squadron Booth, of Sydenham, was educated at Brockley County School and worked for the County of London Electricity Company. He joined the RAFVR in May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1 1939.

REGINALD ARTHUR BOSWELL 742295 Sgt Pilot British 266 and 19 Squadrons

With training completed, he joined 85 Squadron at Debden from 7 OTU on July 15 1940. He damaged a Bf 109 in combat on August 29. The pilot managed a forced-landing at Pevensey and was captured. On the 30th Booth damaged a Bf 110 and on the 31st he probably destroyed another. On September 1 Booth was shot down by Bf 109s over Tunbridge Wells. He baled out, with burns and his parachute alight and was further injured in a heavy landing. His Hurricane, L 2071, crashed at Kingswoosd,

Boswell joined the RAFVR about October 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1 1939, completed his flying training and was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on September 16 1940. Boswell flew no operational sorties with 266 and he went to 19 Squadron at Fowlmere on September 28. He flew his first operational sortie on October 9 and was still with the squadron in November 1940. No further service details traced.

Sanderstead. Booth died from his injuries on February 7 1941. He is buried in Crystal Palace Cemetery. He was 20 years old.

British

302 Squadron

Borowski was in the Polish Air Force before the war and in September 1939 he was serving with 113 Eskadra. He destroyed a Bf 109 on September 1 and shared in the destruction of Ju 87s on the 4th and 5th. He also probably destroyed a He 111 around the same time.

Booth joined the RAFVR at Padgate in June 1940, probably as an Airman u/t Wireless Operator. He later went to RAF Yatesbury for a short radar course, after which he joined 23 Squadron at Wittering on August 22.

JOHN JAMES BOOTH 171689 Sgt Air Gunner

Polish

600 Squadron

ROGER JOHN ERIC BOULDING 41249 FO Pilot British 74 Squadron

Booth joined 600 Squadron, AAF for four years before the war, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (800271). Called up on August 24 1939, he completed his training and had rejoined 600 Squadron at Northolt prior to June 1940.

Born on November 19 1919, Boulding joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell on August 29 1938, as a pupil pilot. He went to 8 FTS, Montrose and finished training at 11 FTS, Shawbury in June 1939.

He flew his first operational sortie on July 19 and continued to fly regularly throughout the Battle of Britain period and was still with 600 Squadron in November 1940. Booth later served in the Middle East and Malta. Commissioned in January 1944, he was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flying Officer. He died in 1995.

With training completed, he joined 41 Squadron at Catterick on March 2 1940. His father, Air Commodore J A Boret, had commanded the squadron from May 1933 to February 1937. On August 15 1940 Boret probably destroyed a Ju 88 and on October 5 he damaged a Bf 109. On October 19 Boret was posted away from 41 to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, for service in Malta. Boret did not go to Uxbridge but may have gone to RAF Northolt with Sergeant C S Bamberger (qv) on October 21, for Hurricane experience in a 615 Squadron aircraft. Boret went direct to King George V Dock in Glasgow and reported to HMS Argus on the 23rd and then sailed for Malta. He was one of six pilots who flew off on November 16, in a flight of Hurricanes, led by an FAA Skua. A series of mishaps saw the Hurricanes run out of fuel and fall, one by one, into the sea, with the loss of all six pilots. Boret was 20. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 7.

After a month at the Armament Training Camp at Penrhos, Boulding joined 52 Squadron at Upwood on July 27. Posted to 98 Squadron at Hucknall in October, he was sent to France, where he joined 142 Squadron at Berry-au-Bac on November 29 1939. The squadron was withdrawn to England on June 15 1940. In August Boulding volunteered for Fighter Command and joined 74 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on the 21st. He damaged a Ju 88 on September 14 and damaged a Do 17 on the 24th. He shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on October 5 1940, destroyed a Bf 109 on December 5, probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another on May 7 1941 and shot down a He 111 at night on May 10/11, which crash-landed, wheels up, in a field near Ashford, Kent. On a sweep over the French coast on June 17 1941, Boulding was shot down in Spitfire W 3251 by a Bf 109. He baled out and was taken prisoner. At some time he was in Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 1353). Released in May 1945, Boulding went to 6(P) AFU on September 25, was posted to 10 OTU, Abingdon on February 12 1946, converted on to Lancasters at 1553 Heavy Conversion Unit at North Luffenham and took command of 35 Squadron at Stradishall on January 30 1947. He was posted away to HQ Bomber Command on October 22 1948. Boulding went to 203 AFT, Driffield in May 1950, followed by two months at the Central Fighter Establishment at West Raynham. He then took command of 249 Squadron on October 24 1950 at Deversoir, Egypt, with Vampires. He commanded the squadron until May 2 1953. He retired from the RAF on November 29 1966 as a Wing Commander. Boulding died on March 2 1993.

APO 19.8.39 PO 2.3.40

APO 29.10.38 PO 29.8.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.44 WC 1.1.54

PO 21.1.44 FO 22.7.44

ROBERT JOHN BORET 42554 PO Pilot British

41 Squadron

Boret joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary training on June 26 1939, as a pupil pilot.

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JOHN CLIFFORD BOULTER 37757 FL Pilot British 603 Squadron

which he was posted to Marrakesh, in Morocco. After the French Armistice in June 1940, Bouquillard and other pilots boarded a British ship at Casablanca that was transporting Polish troops to Britain. After arriving in London on July 19, the French pilots were sent to 4 S of TT St Athan. Eleven of them were posted to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum on July 29 for testing and grading, including Bouquillard. On August 10 he went to RAF Odiham, where he flew Tiger Moths and Hectors with No 1 Fighter Training Squadron of the Free French Air Force. On the 18th he was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 245 Squadron at Aldergrove on September 12, moved to 615 Squadron at Prestwick on the 18th and to 249 Squadron at North Weald on October 1. Bouquillard damaged a Do 17 on October 16 and two days later he made a forcedlanding at Padfields Farm, Church Road, Thornwood Common, after running out of fuel on the landing circuit. He was shot down by a Bf 109 over North Kent on October 25 and made a forced-landing at Rochester. Seriouly wounded, Bouquillard was admitted to the Royal Naval Hospital at Chatham. He was posted from 249 to SHQ North Weald on November 6, as non-effective sick. After a short convalescence, he rejoined 249 in late November 1940. Bouquillard rejoined 615 Squadron, then at Northolt, on December 4. He was the oldest pilot on the squadron. Commissioned in February 1941, Bouquillard was appointed Compagnon de la Liberation. He was shot down by two Bf 109s on March 11 1941 and was killed when he dived into the ground. He was buried on the 15th. Bouquillard later became the first member of the Free French Air Forces to be appointed Membre du Conseil de l’Ordre de la Liberation. His remains were repatriated to France after the war.

Boulter was born in Barnes, London in 1912. He was commissioned in Class ‘AA’ (section ii) of the RAFO on March 20 1933 for five years. He relinquished his commission in April 1936, on being granted a short service commission in the RAF. On April 18 he went to 7 FTS, Peterborough and on completion of his course he joined No 1 Squadron at Tangmere on October 25. Boulter moved to 72 Squadron at Church Fenton on its being reformed there on March 23 1937. By September 2 1939 he was serving in the Ops Room at RAF Usworth. On October 6 he was posted to 603 Squadron, Turnhouse, for flying duties, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. On October 16 1939 he fired on a He 111 E of Aberdour. On March 20 1940 Boulter collided with a stationary Airspeed Oxford when landing at Montrose, in Spitfire l 1022. He was admitted to hospital, injured. His attachment to 603 ceased on May 27 1940 and Boulter was put on the squadron strength. On August 27 603 moved south to Hornchurch. Next day Boulter shot down a Bf 109 and he regained base, slightly wounded. On September 11 he damaged a He 111 and on the 14th he destroyed a Bf 109. Boulter was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on the 15th. On the 17th he shared a Bf 109, on the 23rd destroyed one and on the 30th damaged another. Boulter probably destroyed a Bf 109 on October 2 and damaged another on the 12th, shared a Bf 110 on November 7, shot down a Bf 109 on November 17 and probably destroyed a Fiat CR 42 over the Channel on the 23rd. He was awarded the DFC (6.12.40). On February 17 1941, Boulter had just landed, when his Spitfire was struck by a Spitfire taking off. He died next day from his injuries and is buried in Dirleton Cemetery, East Lothian. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in February 1941. His brother, SergeantPilot H H Boulter, was killed in an accident taking off from 11 OTU on August 13 1940. He is buried in Bassingbourn Cemetery. PO (RAFO) 20.3.33 FL 3.9.40

FO (RAFO) 20.9.34

APO 6.4.36

PO 10.2.37

CHARLES EARLE BOWEN 39488 FL Pilot British 607 Squadron

FO 10.11.38 Bowen was born at Chapel-en-le-Frith, Derbyshire in May 1916 of Anglo-Spanish parents. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began training on December 21 1936, as a pupil pilot.

JOHN ERIC BOULTON 40362 FO Pilot British

310 Squadron

He went to 9 FTS, Thornaby on March 20 1937 and with training completed, he joined 77 Squadron at Honington on October 23. On May 2 1938 he was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill, as an instructor. Bowen joined 145 Squadron at Croydon on November 16 1939 from Training Command and on the 29th he went to 2 Ferry Pilot Pool at Filton. He joined 615 Squadron at Vitry-en-Artois in France on December 17 but moved to 607 Squadron the same day, based on the same aerodrome. On May 10 1940 Bowen shared in the probable destruction of a He 111 and damaged another. The squadron was withdrawn to England on May 22 and on July 1 1940 Bowen was detached from 607 to AFDU, Northolt, for a course. He rejoined 607 on the 13th. On August 15 he claimed a He 111 destroyed, another probably destroyed and another damaged, on September 15, flying from Tangmere, he claimed a Do 17 destroyed, a Bf 110 shared and a Ju 88 damaged. On the 26th he was shot down in a combat over the Isle of Wight. Bowen baled out over Calbourne and landed unhurt. On the 30th he damaged a Bf 110. On October 1 1940 Bowen was reported ‘Missing’, after a combat with Bf 110s over the Isle of Wight. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 4. He was 24 years old.

Boulton was born at Bosham, Sussex on November 24 1919. His father had been a Warrant Officer in the XIth Hussars before the Great War and he was later commissioned in the Sussex Yeomanry, serving in Gallipoli, Egypt and Palestine. He died in a car crash in 1929. Boulton was educated at Hastings Grammar School. He worked for the Buick Motor Company in London. He joined the RAF on a short service commission in October 1937. He began his flying training at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield on the 25th, as a pupil pilot. Boulton was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on January 22 1938. With training completed, he joined 29 Squadron at Debden on August 20 and moved to CFS, Upavon on October 23, for an instructors’ course. He returned to 2 FTS on December 23 1938, as a Qualified Flying Instructor. Boulton was attached to 310 Squadron at Duxford from 2 FTS on July 14 1940, to check the newly-arrived Czech pilots and help their conversion to Hurricanes. When 310 became operational in mid-August, Boulton, still only on attachment, asked if he could fly on operational sorties and was given consent by the Air Ministry. He flew his first one on August 20. He shared in destroying a He 111 on September 7. In an engagement over Croydon on the 9th, Boulton collided with Flight Lieutenant Sinclair of 310, lost control and struck a Bf 110. He did not bale out. The Hurricane, P 3888, crashed and burst into flames in Woodmansterne Lane, Woodmansterne. Sinclair, in Hurricane R 4084, baled out and sprained his ankle landing in a wood at Caterham. Boulton is buried in Bandon Hill Cemetery, Beddington, Surrey. He was awarded the Czech Military Cross (10.1.41).

APO 8.3.37 PO 21.12.37 FO 21.7.39 FL 3.9.40

NIGEL GREENSTREET BOWEN 41984 PO Pilot British 266 Squadron The elder son of the Rector of St Mary’s, Wallingford, Berkshire, Bowen was educated at Christ Church Cathedral School, Oxford and afterwards at St Edward’s School, Oxford. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 6 1939, as a pupil pilot. On completion of training, he joined 266 Squadron at Sutton Bridge on November 6 1939, one week after its being reformed. Over Dunkirk on June 2 Bowen damaged a Bf 109. On August 12 he claimed a Ju 88 destroyed and another damaged. He was shot down and killed during a combat with Bf 109s on August 16 1940, in Spitfire N 3095, crashing in flames at

APO 9.1.38 PO 25.10.38 FO 25.4.40

HENRI JACQUES BOUQUILLARD 30495 Adjudant Pilot French 245, 615 and 249 Sqdns Bouquillard was born at Nevers on June 14 1908. A member of a well-to-do family, he had his own aeroplane in the 1930s. He was a Sergeant in the Reserve of the Chasseurs Alpin before the war. His interest in flying enabled him to transfer to l’Armée d l’Air, to carry out pilot training.

Adisham, Kent. Bowen was 20. He is buried in Wallingford Cemetery. APO 29.4.39 PO 6.3.40

Called up at the outbreak of war, Bouquillard went on an instructor’s course, after

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PETER DUNCAN BOWEN 42481 PO Pilot British 264 Squadron

then went to the Aircraft Delivery Unit at Takoradi. In July 1942 he was posted to 260 Squadron in the Western Desert and moved to 601 Squadron at LG 92 in October. He was killed on October 24 1942 when he crashed, after being seen to spin during a turn. Bowerman, aged 26, was a Warrant Officer. He is remembered on the Alamein Memorial, Column 249.

Bowen, from Ashford, Kent, joined the RAF as a candidate for a short service commission. He began his elementary flying training, as a pupil pilot, at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham on May 1 1939. He went on to 10 FTS, Ternhill on September 9 1939, on No 14 Course, which he completed on January 27 1940.

LEONARD DOUGLAS BOWMAN 174743 Sgt Air Gunner British 141 Squadron

He arrived at 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on March 8 1940. The unit was redesignated 5 OTU one week later. After converting to Defiants he joined 504 Squadron at Debden on April 13. Bowen was posted to 264 Squadron at Duxford on May 22 and served with it throughout the Battle of Britain. On March 18 1941 Bowen was seriously injured when, as he was taking off, he hit another Defiant, which had just landed and was taxying down the flare path instead of turning off it. In January 1944 Bowen was serving with 169 Squadron at Little Snoring. The unit was equipped with Mosquitos and carrying out intruder operations against enemy night fighters, ahead of heavy bomber raids on German targets. Bowen was reported ‘Missing’ after a night operation on February 13 1944. He was 23. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 201.

Born in Camberwell, London on October 19 1917, Bowman was the last of ten children, three boys and seven girls. One brother was killed in France, just before he was born and the other, originally in the London Scottish, volunteered for the RFC and qualified as a pilot. Bowman enlisted in the RAFVR at No 2 RAF Depot, Cardington in September 1939, for the duration of hostilities. He could not get on a pilots’ course but was accepted for Air Gunner duties (937487). He did a three week gunnery course at No 1 AAS, Manby from July 7 1940 and then joined 141 Squadron at Grangemouth on August 8. When the squadron converted to Beaufighters in August 1941 Bowman was posted to 410 (RCAF) Squadron on the 7th, recently formed at Ayr with Defiants. He went on a Gunnery Leaders’ Course on April 17 1942, after which he joined 159 Squadron on May 10. The squadron flew its Liberators to the Middle East, where it carried out long-range daylight raids. Bowman also served with 160 Squadron, which was later absorbed into 178 Squadron. Whilst with 178, he was awarded the DFM (27.4.43). Bowman had flown many operational sorties, including eight daylight attacks on targets in the Middle East. He returned to the UK in 1943 and instructed for a while at RAF Jurby, Isle of Man. Back in the Middle East, Bowman served with 31 (SAAF) Squadron on Liberators. Commissioned in April 1944, he went to Southern Rhodesia and instructed at Moffat. Bowman returned to the UK in 1945, spent some time as Adjutant at Boreham, near Chelmsford and was released in November 1945, as a Flying Officer. He died on July 4 1995.

APO 19.8.39 PO 1.5.40 FO 1.2.41 FL 1.2.42

HUGH BOWEN-MORRIS 758084 Sgt Pilot British

74, 66, 64, 616 & 92 Sqdns

Bowen-Morris joined the RAFVR in June 1939 and began flying training at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty. He was called up on September 1, went to 3 ITW at Hastings and then to 3 E&RFTS, Hamble in November. He went to 14 FTS, Kinloss, on No 7 Course. The FTS moved to Cranfield in April 1940.With training completed on August 3, he arrived at 7 OTU next day. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 74 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on the 26th but stayed only one day, moving on to 66 Squadron at Coltishall on the 28th. After being posted to 64 Squadron on September 10, Bowen-Morris moved to 616 Squadron two days later. He is last mentioned in 616 Squadron’s ORB on September 20, an aerobatics exercise. Bowen-Morris finally went to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill and flew his first operational sortie there on September 27, during which he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 and damaged a Do 17 and then made a crash-landing back at Biggin Hill, damaging Spitfire, R 6760. On October 29 he probably destroyed a Bf 110. Still with 92, Bowen-Morris shared a Ju 87 on February 5 1941, destroyed a Bf 109 on May 9 and another on June 16. He was shot down during a fighter sweep over Northern France on June 23 1941. He was captured, seriously wounded and had his right arm amputated. In an exchange of prisoners in October 1943, Bowen-Morris was repatriated. He was discharged from the RAF in November 1943 as a Warrant Officer. He was a director of john brown shipbuilders and died in 1991.

PO 5.4.44 FO 5.10.44

BENJAMIN HARVEY BOWRING 90105 FO Pilot British 600 and 111 Squadrons Born in April 1918, Bowring was educated at Uppingham School and learned to fly at the Brooklands Flying Club in 1937. He joined 600 Squadron, AAF in 1938 and was commissioned in July. Called up to full-time service on August 24 1939, he served with 600 until August 24 1940, when he was posted to 111 Squadron at Debden. On August 30 he damaged a Bf 110, on the 31st probably destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged another, on September 2 he probably destroyed a He 111 and damaged a Bf 110, on the 4th destroyed a Bf 109, on the 5th destroyed a Bf 109, probably destroyed another and damaged a hird and on the 6th destroyed a Ju 88. Bowring was wounded in the arm on the 6th and did not return to the squadron until October 24. He was shot down in early November and admitted to hospital, wounded. After recovery, he joined 260 Squadron at Skitten on December 7 1940, recentlyreformed at Castletown, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. In May 1941 the squadron embarked on the carrier HMS Victorious. At Gibraltar it transferred on to HMS Ark Royal and on June 14 flew off to Malta. After refuelling, it went on to Egypt and eventually arrived in Haifa to take part in the Syrian campaign. Bowring served with the squadron detachment at Beirut. He returned to the UK in October 1941 and was posted to an Armament Officer’s course. He later took command of 278 (ASR) Squadron at Coltishall. Bowring led the squadron until its disbandment in September 1945. By that time it had rescued 998 men from the sea. Bowring was released in 1945 as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1994.

OSWALD ROBERT BOWERMAN 741649 Sgt Pilot British 222 Squadron Bowerman, of Ealing, Middlesex, joined the RAFVR about May 1938. In September 1939 the FAA was short of pilots and after Bowerman was called up, he was posted to Donibristle and joined the Torpedo-Spotter-Reconnaissance Flight. He was later posted to 770 Squadron for deck-landing training on HMS Argus, in the Western Mediterranean. He was offered a transfer to the FAA but declined and was posted to 3 B&GS, Aldergrove as a staff pilot. On May 4 1940 Bowerman was recalled to the FAA and joined 759 (T) Squadron at Eastleigh, for a refresher deck-landing course. He was with 804 Squadron at Hatston by May 23. By June the RAF was short of pilots and Bowerman was recalled on the 11th and posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 17th. After converting to Spitfires he joined 222 Squadron at Hornchurch on July 1 1940. He flew his first, and only, operational sortie with the squadron on July 15, a convoy patrol. On July 18 Bowerman was detached and told to report to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, where he became one of a group of nine sergeants and one officer. They were flown to Hullavington, picked up Hurricanes, flew them to Abbotsinch and were embarked on the carrier HMS Argus. They were joined by four more officers, told their destination was Malta and they were now 418 Flight. The Argus sailed on July 23, arrived at Gibraltar and left for Malta on the 31st. At dawn on August 2 the Hurricanes flew off to Luqa. On August 3 Bowerman was formally posted to 418 Flight. The Flight and the Malta Fighter Flight were amalgamated into 261 Squadron on August 16 1940. Bowerman left Malta for Egypt on April 7 1941. He ferried a Hurricane to Greece and

PO (AAF) 18.7.38 PO 24.8.39 FO 18.1.40 FL 15.1.41 SL 1.3.42

WALTER STAFFORD BOWYER 39607 FL Pilot South African 257 Squadron Bowyer was born in Durban on April 16 1914 and went to Durban High School. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty on March 1 1937.

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Called up in September 1939, Boyd was posted in October to 2 FTS, Brize Norton, on No 42 Course, which began on October 9 and ended on March 23 1940. With training completed, he arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on April 6 1940 and, after converting to Blenheims, he joined 604 Squadron on May 8 and moved to 600 Squadron at Manston on May 11. On September 30 1940 Boyd flew 600’s first Beaufighter patrol, with Pilot Officer R C Haine. In November 1940 Boyd teamed up with Pilot Officer A J Glegg, forming another of those long and successful night-fighting partnerships. From December 16 to 28 1940 Boyd was at No 1 Blind Approach School at Watchfield, on No 8 Course. On May 16 1941 Boyd and Glegg destroyed a Ju 88, on October 10 a He 111, on December 2 another He 111 and on January 25 1942 a He 111. They were both awarded the DFC (9.1.42). On March 7 they shot down a He 115 within sight of the airfield at Predannack. Boyd was posted to HQ Fighter Command, as Squadron Leader Night Training in September 1942. He took command of 219 Squadron at Scorton in March 1943, again flying with Glegg. The squadron went to North Africa in early June 1943, became operational at Algiers on June 30 and on that day Boyd and Glegg shot down two Ju 88s. On August 25 they destroyed another, on September 6 a He 111 and on the 18th another. Boyd was awarded the DSO (3.3.44). The squadron returned to the UK in February 1944 and Boyd commanded it until August, when he went to HQ Fighter Command, as Wing Commander Night Operations. In May 1945 he was appointed Air Attaché in Dublin. He was released from the RAF in February 1946 and went to work for Vickers-Armstrong in March. Boyd died in 2014.

He went on to 3 FTS, South Cerney. Training completed, he was posted to 3 Squadron at Kenley in late November 1937. Bowyer was detached to 3 Armament Training Station, Sutton Bridge on February 6 1939, to take an Air Firing Instructor’s course. He rejoined 3 Squadron on March 1 and was still with it at the outbreak of war. He went to France with the squadron on May 10 1940, to Merville. On the 12th he destroyed two Ju 87s near Louvain and on the 14th he shared in destroying a Bf 110. The squadron was withdrawn to Kenley on May 20. When 257 Squadron was reformed at Hendon on May 17 1940, Bowyer joined it on the 19th, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant and ‘B’ Flight Commander. He relinquished this post on June 4, on the arrival of Flight Lieutenant N M Hall. Bowyer flew one operational sortie before becoming non-effective sick with jaundice on July 17. After returning to the squadron from sick leave, he went down with appendicitis and after more sick leave, Bowyer was posted away to 2 AACU, Gosport on October 4 1940. He was killed on January 24 1942, as a Squadron Leader with 2 AACU. In Gladiator K 7935, he collided with a balloon cable and crashed at Fort Grange, Gosport. Bowyer is buried in Ocklynge Cemetery, Eastbourne, Sussex. APO 3.5.37 PO 1.3.38 FO 1.9.39 FL 3.9.40

ADRIAN HOPE BOYD 39101 FL Pilot British

145 Squadron Born on January 1 1913 in Sialkot, India, Boyd enlisted in the Royal Navy as a cadet in 1926. He passed out at Naval College on May 1 1930 and was commissioned as a Midshipman in the Executive Branch of the Royal Navy on January 1 1931. In 1933 he became an Acting Sub-Lt and on May 3 1934 he resigned.

PO (RAFVR) 18.10.38 FO 18.4.40 FL 18.4.41 SL 1.6.42

ROBERT FINDLAY BOYD 90165 FL Pilot British 602 Squadron

He entered the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio training on July 13 1936, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 2 FTS, Digby on September 19 and with his training completed, he joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on May 22 1937. Boyd went to 145 Squadron at Croydon on October 22 1939, as ‘B’ Flight Commander and he was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant. In May 1940 145 was operating over Northern France. Boyd destroyed two Ju 87s and probably another on May 22 and two Bf 110s and probably another on the 27th. Next day he was shot down into the sea near Dunkirk and was picked up. On June 1 he destroyed a Bf 109 and a Bf 110 and damaged another Bf 110. For the actions of these ten days, he was awarded the DFC (21.6.40). He took temporary command of 145 on June 15 and 16th. On July 3 Boyd shared in destroying a He 111, on the 11th he claimed a Bf 110 shot down, on the 18th he shared a He 111, on the 22nd he shared a Do 17 and on August 8 destroyed two Bf 109s, two Bf 110s, a Ju 87 and damaged another Ju 87. He again took temporary command of 145 from August 12 to 25. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (20.8.40) and attended an investiture at Buckingham Palace on September 3. During the night of August 26/27 Boyd damaged a He 111 off St Abb’s Head. He took command of 145 Squadron, with effect from September 16 1940, as an Acting Squadron Leader, in the absence of Squadron Leader J R A Peel.He shared in the destruction of an Arado Ar 196 S of St Catherine’s Point on October 12 and on the 15th shot down a Bf 109 off the Isle of Wight. Boyd relinquished his command on November 18, when Peel returned. He was posted away to A & AEE, Boscombe Down on November 25. In December 1940 Boyd was posted to an OTU, as an instructor, but returned to operations when he took command of 501 Squadron at Ibsley in mid-June 1941. On July 7 he destroyed a Ju 88 at night and on the 24th he claimed two Bf 109s. Boyd was appointed Wing Leader at Middle Wallop on August 2 1941 and on October 13 he damaged a Bf 109. When he was awarded the DSO (2.12.41), he was credited with sixteen enemy aircraft destroyed. In 1944 Boyd commanded 281 Wing in Italy, as an Acting Group Captain. He left the RAF in 1947 as a Wing Commander and died on January 21 1975. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in October 1940. Midshipman 1.5.30 Acting Sub-Lt 1.5.33 FL 3.9.40 SL 2.11.41 WC 1.1.44

APO 7.9.36

PO 13.7.37

Born in East Kilbride, Scotland on June 8 1916, Boyd joined 602 Squadron, AAF in 1935 and was commissioned in November. He was called to full-time service in early September 1939. On November 30 Boyd was on an afternoon flight from Markinch when he saw an enemy aircraft going into cloud. He closed and fired a two second burst from 400 yards but the enemy aircraft disappeared with no apparent sign of damage. On May 20 1940 Boyd was attached to RAF Turnhouse from 602 for Ops Room duties. He rejoined the squadron on June 3. On July 7 1940 he shared in destroying a Ju 88 off St Abb’s Head. The squadron moved south in August to Westhampnett. On the 15th Boyd shared a Do 17, on the 16th he shot down a Ju 87 and shared a He 111 and on the 18th he destroyed a Bf 109, a Ju 87 and damaged another. Boyd shared a Ju 88 on August 19, destroyed two Bf 109s on the 25th, another Bf 109 and a Do 17 on September 4, got a Bf 109 on the 11th and damaged another. On the 21st he shared a Ju 88, on the 26th shot down a Bf 109 and probably another, on October 2 he shared a Ju 88 and on November 13 he shared a Ju 88. Boyd was awarded the DFC (24.9.40) and a Bar (25.10.40). On December 21 1940 Boyd took command of 54 Squadron at Catterick. He destroyed a Bf 110 on April 17 1941, probably destroyed a Bf 109 on June 22, shot down a Bf 109 on the 26th, destroyed one and damaged another on July 8 and destroyed two more on July 10 and 17. Soon afterwards Boyd was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, then moved to 57 OTU, Hawarden in October, remaining there until December 1941, when he was appointed Wing Leader at Kenley. Boyd was flying with Victor Beamish on February 12 1942, when they spotted the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau in the Channel. On February 19 Boyd damaged a Bf 109, on the 28th he got a probable FW 190 and on April 12 he damaged two FW 190s. The citation for Boyd’s DSO (10.4.42) stated that he had destroyed a total of twentytwo enemy aircraft. In June 1942 Boyd was posted to the Far East and at some time commanded 293 Wing in Burma. Boyd received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.45). He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Group Captain. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in October 1940. In the post-war years Boyd flew charter flights for Scottish Aviation, later tried pig farming and herring fishing. He then moved to Skye, where he kept the Ferry Inn at Uig. Boyd died suddenly on February 22 1975 at the home of his old RAF friend George Pinkerton.

FO 13.1.39

ARCHIBALD DOUGLAS McNEILL BOYD 72461 FO Pilot British 600 Squadron Born in Sheffield in 1918, Boyd went to Harrow School and then Trinity College, Oxford, where he read Engineering. He learned to fly there with the University Air Squadron in 1938. Boyd was commissioned into the RAFVR in October 1938 and he continued his flying at 18 E&RFTS, Fairoaks.

PO (AAF) 2.11.35 FO (AAF) 2.5.37 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.40 WC 1.3.42

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CYRIL BOYLE 143495 Sgt Observer

British

Awarded the DSO (9.10.42), Braham was promoted to Acting Wing Commander in January 1943 and he took command of 141 Squadron at Ford, taking Gregory with him. During the night of the 20/21st they destroyed a Do 17, on June 14/15 a Bf 110, on the 16/17th they damaged a Ju 88 and on the 24/25th they shot down a Bf 110. Gregory left the squadron soon after. On August 9/10 Braham, again flying with Jacobs, shot down a Bf 110, on the 17/18th two more Bf 110s, on September 27/28 a Do 217 and on the 29/30th he destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged a Ju 88. Braham was awarded a second Bar to the DFC (15.6.43) and a Bar to the DSO (24.9.43). He led 141 Squadron until October 1943, when he was sent for a course at the Army Staff College at Camberley. In February 1944 Braham was posted to a staff job at 2 (Light Bomber) Group, to assist in the work of night interdiction. He was joined by Gregory and Jacobs. Braham had been given the AOC’s permission to fly occasional sorties. On March 5 1944 he shot down a He 177, on the 24th a Ju 52 and a Ju W-34 and on April 4 a Bu 131. On each sortie he flew in a Mosquito of 613 Squadron. On April 13 Braham shot down a He 111 and a FW 58 and on the 29th a FW 190. Both sorties were in a Mosquito of 305 Squadron. Using one from 21 Squadron, Braham destroyed a Ju 88 N of Copenhagen on May 7 1944 and on the 12th, in a 107 Squadron Mosquito, he destroyed a FW 190 near Aalborg; then, damaged and out of fuel, he crash-landed on the sea and was picked up by a Royal Navy trawler. It was Braham’s twenty-ninth and final victory. Braham’s 1944 victories on March 5, April 4, 13 and 29 and May 12 were all partnered by Gregory. Braham was awarded a second Bar to the DSO (13.6.44) and on June 25 1944 he was shot down by Leutnant Robert Spreckels in a FW 190. He crashed at Ringköbing Fiord and he and his Australian navigator were captured. Braham was sent to Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan (PoW No 6623). He was later moved to Marlag Milag Nord, near Bremen and, after a forced march to Lübeck, he was released there on May 2 1945. As well as his other awards, Braham had the C de G (Belg), with Palm and the Belgian Order of the Crown, with Palm. Granted a Permanent Commission after the war, he was awarded the AFC (1.1.51) and he resigned in May 1952 to take up an appointment in the RCAF. In 1954 he commanded 432 Squadron, an all-weather jet fighter unit at North Bay, N of Toronto. In 1960 he was posted to the staff of SHAPE HQ, Paris. Braham retired from the RCAF in 1970 as a Group Captain. He settled in Nova Scotia and died there on February 7 1974.

236 Squadron

Boyle joined the Aircraft Crew Section of the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (755315). He was called up on September 1 1939 and went to 4 ITW. He was on No 1 Air Observer Course at 11 Air Observer Navigation School, Hamble from November 20 1939 to March 9 1940, after which he was posted to a B&GS to complete his training. Boyle joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island on July 31 1940 and flew his first operational sortie on August 3. He was posted with his flight to RAF Aldergrove on November 19, where it combined with a flight from 235 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron. He flew his first sortie with 272 on the 20th. Commissioned in January 1943, Boyle was released in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on July 6 1971. PO 24.1.43 FO 24.7.43 FL 24.1.45

JOHN GREER BOYLE 40204 FO Pilot Canadian

41 Squadron

The son of a doctor, Boyle was born on March 27 1914 in Castlemain, Ontario. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his flying training on August 23 1937, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 9 FTS, Hullavington on October 24 and after completing his training, he went as a staff pilot to No 1 Air Observers’ School at North Coates on August 15 1938. Boyle joined 41 Squadron at Catterick on May 5 1940. He was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 22, where he converted to Spitfires. He ceased to be attached on June 9 and joined 611 Squadron at Digby on the 11th. He rejoined 41 Squadron at Catterick on June 15. On August 11 Boyle shared in the destruction of a Ju 88, on September 5 he destroyed a Bf 109, on the 9th a He 111, on the 15th destroyed a Bf 109 and shared a He 111 and on the 17th he destroyed two Bf 109s. On September 28 1940 Boyle was shot down and killed in combat over Charing. His Spitfire, X 4426, crashed and burned out at Erriotts Farm, Dadmans, Lynstead. Boyle was 26. He is buried in Lynstead New Churchyard, Kent.

APO 7.5.38 PO 7.3.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 22.3.43 SL 1.8.47

HENRY GEORGE KENELM BRAMAH Sub-Lieutenant (FAA) Pilot British 213 Squadron Bramah entered the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on March 13 1939, with the rating of Midshipman (A).

APO 24.10.37 PO 23.8.38 FO 23.3.40

JOHN RANDALL DANIEL BRAHAM 40667 FO Pilot British 29 Squadron

He did his elementary flying training at 20 E&RFTS from June 26 1939 and moved on to No 1 FTS, Leuchars on September 4, on No 5 Course, which ended on January 13 1940. Bramah was one of the pilots attached to the RAF on June 15 1940. He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on June 17, where he converted to Hurricanes and then joined 213 Squadron at Exeter on July 1. Bramah flew three times on July 15. On the first sortie, a scramble, he destroyed a Do 17. The second was a convoy patrol. On the third, another scramble, he was shot down by return fire from a Do17 over Old Mill Creek, near Dartmouth. He baled out, badly wounded and was rescued from the sea by the destroyer HMS Scimitar. He refused to have his arm amputated. His recovery was slow and he did not return to 213 Squadron. In 1945 Bramah was Flight Deck Officer on HMS Glasgow. He stayed on in the Navy, retired in 1955 and died in 1973.

Braham was born in Bath on April 6 1920, the son of a vicar. He was educated at Taunton Grammar School, left there in late 1936 and went to work as a boy clerk for the Lancashire County Police at Wigan. Braham applied for an RAF short service commission in December 1937 and began his ab initio course at 7 E&RFTS, Desford on March 7 1938, as a pupil pilot. He moved on to 11 FTS, Shawbury on May 7. At the end of the course he joined 29 Squadron at Debden on December 17 1938. Braham’s first victory came on the night of August 24 1940, flying with Sergeant A A Wilsdon, with a He 111 shot down in the Humber area. On September 6 Braham and two others were injured in a car accident. He was admitted to RAF Hospital Rauceby, with a badly lacerated back. He was discharged on the 27th and sent on sick leave. Braham returned to duty in October and flew his next operational sortie on the 11th. He was on No 7 Course at No 1 Blind Approach School, Watchfield from December 9 to 20 1940. He was awarded the DFC (17.1.41) and decorated by the King in a ceremony at RAF Waddington. On March 13 1941 Braham destroyed a Do 17 and on May 8 a He 111. In June 1941 he teamed up with Sergeant W J Gregory. It was the start of a long and successful partnership. During the night of June 23/24 they probably destroyed a He 111, on July 6/7 they shot down a Ju 88, on September 12/13 a He 111, on the 28/29th they damaged a He 111, on October 19/20 destroyed a Do 17 and on the 24/25th another He 111. Braham was awarded a Bar to the DFC (25.10.41) and rested from operations, going to 51 OTU, Cranfield as an instructor in January 1942. During the night of June 6/7 1942, flying in a Beaufighter of 29 Squadron, Braham shot down a Do 217 into the sea off Sandwich. Later in the month he rejoined 29 at West Malling, as a Flight Commander. Braham, again flying with Gregory, shot down a Do 217 during the night of August 9/10. He got a probable Ju 88 on the 24/25th and destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged another on the 28/29th, these three flying with Flight Lieutenant H Jacobs. Braham, flying with Gregory, damaged a Do 217 in daylight on October 19 and destroyed a Do 217 during the night of October 31/November 1. He shot down a Ju 88 in daylight on October 26, flying with Sergeant Heywood.

Midshipman 13.3.39 Acting Sub-Lt 13.1.40 Sub-Lt 14.6.40 Lt 13.7.42 Lt-Cdr 13.7.49 Cdr 31.12.52

GUY RAUSTROM BRANCH 90137 FO Pilot British 145 Squadron Educated at Eton, Branch went to Balliol College, Oxford. He joined 601 Squadron, AAF in late 1936 and was commissioned in May 1937. On February 11 1938 he was on an instructional crosscountry flight in a Demon, with Flying Officer Crawley. After refuelling at RAF Netheravon, they took off in poor weather, just missed the hangars and crashed in flames on the road nearby. Branch extricated himself from the wreckage, but finding Crawley still trapped, he went back into the flames and pulled him out. For this act he was awarded the Empire Gallantry Medal (25.3.38). Branch went to France with ‘A’ Flight of 601Squadron on May 17 1940. On the 20th he destroyed a Do 17. The flight

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convert to Hurricanes. On October 2 he made a forcedlanding in Hurricane L 1581, following engine failure. On October 10 Brejcha joined 43 Squadron at Usworth. During November 1940 he was posted to 257 Squadron at Coltishall. On February 4, flying Hurricane P 3705 he shot down a Do 17, which had probably already been damaged by anti-aircraft fire and fire from Pilot Officer Barnes of 257 Squadron.. It crashed off shore, near Corton, Lowestoft. On June 19 1941, while flying Tiger Moth N 6825, from Farnborough, Brejcha crashed into the sea between Southwold and Lowestoft. He baled out and his body was washed ashore. Brejcha is buried in Scottow Cemetery, Norfolk.

rejoined the squadron at Tangmere on May 22. Branch was posted to 145 Squadron, also based at Tangmere, on June 1. On July 15 1940 Branch shared in the probable destruction of a Do 17 and on August 8 he claimed the destruction of two Ju 87s. He failed to return from a combat S of Swanage on August 11. His Hurricane, P 2951, crashed into the sea and his body was later washed up on the French coast. He was 26 and is buried in the churchyard at Quiberville in France. PO (AAF) 7.5.37 FO (AAF) 29.1.39 FO 24.8.39

GEORGE BROWN BRASH 639109 Sgt Wop/AG British

248 Squadron

Brash, from Edinburgh, joined the RAF in March 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. With training completed, Brash was posted to 248 Squadron at Dyce in July 1940. He flew his first operational sortie on August 9.

JACK STEPHEN BRENNAN 391875 Sgt Air Gunner New Zealander

23 Squadron

Brennan was born in Auckland on July 18 1918. He volunteered for aircrew duties in September 1939 and reported for ground training at Weraroa on December 18, moving to Ohakea in mid-January 1940 for gunnery training.

On September 28 Brash was one of the crew of a Blenheim which engaged and damaged a Do 18 over the North Sea. His aircraft was hit by return fire and the pilot, Pilot Officer C C Bennett, and the observer Sergeant G S Clarke were slightly wounded. With his fuel tanks damaged, Bennett headed rapidly for home. It transpired that the enemy aircraft had to land on the sea and was abandoned by its crew before it sank. Brash failed to return from a reconnaissance operation to the Norwegian coast on October 1 1940, in Blenheim R 3626. He, Pilot Officer Bennett and Sergeant Clarke were all reported ‘Missing’. They are remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 12.

On March 23 Brennan sailed for England in the SS Akaroa and arrived at Tilbury on May 9. He was posted to 5 OTU, firstly at Chivenor and then Aston Down. Brennan joined 23 Squadron at Collyweston on July 6 1940. In the evening of August 21, on flarepath duty, Brennan was struck by a Blenheim coming in to land and he was killed. He is buried in All Saints’ churchyard, Wittering, Cambridgeshire (formerly Northamptonshire).

REGINALD ARTHUR BREEZE 54089 Sgt Pilot British 266 and 222 Squadrons COLIN PETER NOEL BRETT 39850 FO Pilot British 17 Squadron

Breeze joined the RAF in September 1933, as an Aircrafthand (516456). He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot on August 8 1939, as a Corporal.

Brett was born on September 5 1912 in Norwich and grew up in the city. His father served in the Royal Flying Corps in the First World War. C P N Brett joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 10 1937, as a pupil pilot.

He did his elementary flying training at 12 E&RFTS, Wick, and moved on to 3 FTS, South Cerney on October 23, on No 30 Course, which ended on April 27 1940. He went to No 1 B&GS, Pembrey, as a Sergeant-Pilot. Breeze was attached to No 4 (C) Ferry Pilot Pool on May 15 1940. On the 28th he made a forced-landing at Tangmere, in Hurricane P 3590, when the port wheel would not retract. On June 7 he crashed into telephone wires in poor visibility at St Cyrus, whilst ferrying a Tiger Moth from Cambridge to Lossiemouth. He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2, converted to Spitfires, joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on the 16th and went to 222 Squadron at Hornchurch on October 1. On November 8 Breeze’s Spitfire, N 3164, was damaged in combat and he landed at Martlesham Heath. As he took off again, the aircraft caught fire and crashed and burned out at Oakley Poultry Farm, Mundersley Heath. Breeze escaped unhurt. He was posted from 266 to 611 Squadron on December 13 1940 and he joined it at Rochford on the 14th. He was commissioned in September 1943 and was killed on January 28 1945, serving with 151 Repair Unit (Aircraft). Breeze is buried in Calais Southern Cemetery, France.

He was posted to 7 FTS, Peterborough on July 17 and with training completed, he joined 29 Squadron at Debden on February 19 1938. On August 2 he and Leading Aircraftman Miller abandoned a Hawker Demon near High Wycombe owing to ground mist and lack of petrol. Both landed by parachute uninjured. The aircraft crashed near the Old Plow Inn at Speen. On July 1 1940 Brett was posted away from 29 to 5 OTU, Aston Down and, after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 17 Squadron at Debden on the 12th. He was posted away to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 16, possibly as a flying instructor. On September 21 he was caught in an air raid in London, near Shepherd Market, Mayfair and was buried in rubble from a building, but seems to have suffered no significant injury. He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. Brett worked as an advertising account executive for a time. Brett died in 1984. APO 5.7.37 PO 31.5.38 FO 31.1.40 FL 31.1.41

PO 3.9.43 FO 3.3.44

JOHN BREWSTER 90995 PO Pilot British

VACLAV BREJCHA 787506 Sgt Pilot Czechoslovakian

Brewster was born, on March 16 1916 at his parents’ house, Winsley Hurst, Hartwith, Yorkshire and was educated at Repton and St John’s College, Cambridge. He trained as a land agent.

43 Squadron

Brejcha was born in Zivotice on April 13 1915. He was in the Czech Air force before the war. When the Germans took over the country on March 15 1939 the Czech Air Force was disbanded and Brejcha was demobilised. He fled to Poland and, with other Czechoslovak airmen, he sailed from Gdynia to France.

616 and 615 Squadrons

He joined 616 Squadron, AAF at Doncaster before the war. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939. On September 22 Brewster was slightly injured as a passenger in Hind K 6757 which stalled on take off for an instructional flight due to incorrect assembly of elevator controls. On October 7 Brewster was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton, on No 42 Course. With training completed went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on April 28, where he converted to Hurricanes. On May 15 Brewster and others were posted to PDC, Uxbridge, for allocation to a squadron in France. Instead, on June 2, he returned to 616 Squadron at Rochford.On July 1, with the Squadron now at Leconfield, Brewster shared in destroying a He 111 over the Yorkshire coast. On August 19 he went south with the squadron to Kenley. On August 25 Brewster was

On arrival in France he enlisted in l’Armee de l’Air and was initially assigned to CIB at Pau and on October 6 1939 he transferred to CIC Chartres for retraining on French equipment. On May 27 1940 he was posted, with the rank of Sergeant, to GCIII/10 and then on June 4 1940 to GCI/4, equipped with Curtiss H-75Cs. With the French capitulation imminent he was released from service with l’Armee de l’Air and evacuated to England. Brejcha was accepted into the RAFVR with the rank of Sergeant and he arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge from the Czechoslovak Depot, Cosford, on September 20 1940, to

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MICHAEL FEATHERSTONE BRIGGS 86346 PO Pilot British 234 Squadron

attached to 615 Squadron, also stationed at Kenley. During the afternoon of the 26th, he claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed over the Thames estuary, during one of three sorties he flew that day. By September 1 Brewster was back with 616 and claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and two others damaged on that day. On November 5 he crashed in a Spitfire at Kirton-inLindsey, landing in bad visibility and adverse weather conditions. He was unhurt. On January 5 1941 Brewster attacked a Dornier Do 17 but made no claim. On February 24 he was posted, as an experienced pilot, to 118 Squadron which had re-formed at Filton four days previously. He immediately applied to be returned to 616 and his CO

Briggs, from Cookham, Berkshire, went to Oundle School. He joined the Test Section of the Fairey Aviation Company in 1939. Briggs joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (758115). He was called up on September 1, completed his flying training and was then commissioned. He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 22 1940 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 234 Squadron at St Eval on October 6. Briggs joined 41Squadron at Hornchurch on November 4 1940. He was killed in a flying accident at Washington, near Richmond, Yorkshire on April 2 1941, in Spitfire P 8049. He was still with 41 Squadron. Briggs was 20. He is buried in Cookham Cemetery.

asked for him back. Brewster was killed on April 6 1941, still serving with 118 Squadron. He was involved in a mid-air collision during a practice attack. He was 25 and is buried in St Giles’ churchyard extension, Stanton St Quintin, Wiltshire next to Pilot Officer H A Williams who was killed in the same incident. In 2014 a local memorial to the two pilots was unveiled.

PO 22.9.40

APO (AAF) 23.7.39 PO 3.12.39 FO 3.12.40

VERNON MAXWELL BRIGHT 41250 FO Pilot British 229 Squadron

YVES BRIÈRE 30500 Adjudant

Bright joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his training on August 29 1938, as a pupil pilot. With training completed, he joined a fighter squadron, possibly 213 at Wittering.

Pilot

French

232 Squadron

Brière was born on August 12 1919. He joined l’Armée de l’Air as a pupil-pilot at Istres in 1938. When the Armistice was signed in June 1940, Brière was on a course on Morane 406s at Oran.

On May 21 1940 Bright was posted to 229 Squadron at Digby. Over Dunkirk on the 29th he destroyed a Bf 109 and two days later he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and a Bf 109 probably destroyed. On September 11 he shared in the destruction of a He 111, on the 15th he shared another He 111 and on the 27th he destroyed another, probably destroyed a Bf 109 and shared a Ju 88 and on the 29th he probably destroyed a Do 17. On October 15 Bright damaged a Bf 109, on the 18th damaged a Ju 88 and on December 12 he shared in the destruction of a Bf 109. He was posted away to 55 OTU, Aston Down in March 1941, as an instructor. Bright was killed on September 24 1942, as a Squadron Leader with the A&AEE, Boscombe Down. He died in a crash, testing prototype Beaufighter EL 329, equipped with eight 3.5 inch rockets. He was 26 and was cremated at Southampton Crematorium.

After deciding to go to England, he flew to Casablanca and boarded a ship, which reached England on June 29. Brière was posted from 4 S of TT, St Athan to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum on July 29 for testing and grading. He went to RAF Odiham on August 10, where he flew 15 hours on Tiger Moths and Hectors with No 1 Fighter Training Squadron of the Free French Air Force. On the 18th Brière, with other French pilots, was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down, where he converted to Hurricanes. Brière and Adjudant C P Guerin were posted to RAF Castletown on September 10, to join 232 Squadron. They arrived at Castletown on the 17th and the squadron flew in next day. On December 17 1940 Brière was posted to 615 Squadron at Kenley. On May 13 1941 he was lost, when his Hurricane crashed into the sea, possibly because of engine failure.

CARL E BRIESE C1591 FO Pilot

Canadian

APO 29.10.38 PO 29.8.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

GEORGE WILLIAM BRIMBLE 745431 Sgt Pilot British 242 Squadron Brimble, from Ward End, Birmingham, joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1, completed his flying training and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on April 28 1940.

1 (RCAF) Squadron

After converting to Hurricanes, he went to PDC, Uxbridge on May 15, for allocation to a squadron in France. He joined a detachment of 242 Squadron there soon afterwards. The detachment was withdrawn on June 16, to Coltishall. On August 30 Brimble claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and probably another, on September 5 he damaged a He 111 and on the 18th he destroyed a Do 17. On November 6 he was posted to 73 Squadron and embarked on the carrier HMS Furious. Brimble flew off on November 29 to Takoradi, to fly the Middle East ferry route to Heliopolis. En route, on December 1 1940, he was killed in a flying accident. He is buried in Khartoum War Cemetery, Sudan.

Briese, of New Westminster, joined the RCAF Special Reserve, as an Aircrafthand, on August 22 1935. He learned to fly in 1937 and he was later commissioned as a pilot. He arrived in the UK with 1 (RCAF) Squadron on June 20 1940. He served with it in the Battle of Britain and was still with it in February 1941. He was repatriated to Canada in 1942. Briese was given command of 128 (RCAF) Squadron at Sydney, Nova Scotia on August 27, using Hurricanes on East Coast defence. He was posted away on April 18 1943. Briese retired from the RCAF on August 20 1962 as a Wing Commander. He died in Canada on November 20 1983.

JOHN JOSEPH BRIMBLE 741563 Sgt Pilot British 73 Squadron Brimble, of Knowle, Bristol, joined the RAFVR in May 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called to full-time service on September 1 1939 and with training completed he was posted to 10 B&GS, as a staff pilot. From there he joined 4 Ferry Pilot Pool on May 16 1940. Brimble was posted to the AASF, France on May 29 and he joined 73 Squadron at Gaye on the 31st. Still with 73, Brimble was shot down in combat with Bf 109s over the Tonbridge area and killed on September 14. His Hurricane, P 2542, crashed at Parkhouse Farm, Chart Sutton, Kent. Brimble was 23. As, apparently, he had no known grave, his name appears on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 12.

DENNIS RUSHWORTH BRIGGS 580535 Sgt Observer British 236 Squadron Briggs, from Bradford, Yorkshire, joined the RAF for four years in August 1938, as a direct-entry Airman u/t Observer. After completing his training, he joined 236 Squadron on July 24 1940. He failed to return from a reconnaissance sortie over Brest on December 21 1940. Briggs was 24 and he is buried, with the other two members of his crew, in Bayeux War Cemetery, France.

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HENRY WILFRED ARTHUR BRITTON 42458 PO Pilot British 17 Squadron

However, when his aircraft was excavated on September 14 1980, Brimble’s remains were still in the cockpit. He was buried with full military honours in Brookwood Cemetery, Surrey, on October 16 1980.

FRANCIS NOEL BRINSDEN 40338 FO Pilot New Zealander

Britton was born at Crowborough on July 8 1921, the son of a Major in the Royal Corps of Signals. His education began in an Army School in Egypt and continued at others in Aldershot and Catterick.

19 Squadron

He later went to Bedford Modern School and finished at George Heriot’s School in Edinburgh and was there from 1935 to 1938. After leaving, Britton worked with his father in a civilian job with the Royal Corps of Signals. He successfully applied for an RAF short service commission and began his ab initio training at 11 E&RFTS, Perth on May 30 1939, was later at 30 E&RFTS and moved to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on August 21, for No 40 Course. With training completed on February 17 1940, Britton arrived at 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on the 23rd. The unit became 5 OTU in March. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 229 Squadron and joined it at Digby on March 25. Britton moved to 27 MU at Shawbury on April 26 but rejoined 229 from RAF Turnhouse on May 5 1940. He was posted away on the 25th and joined 17 Squadron at Kenley. He was killed on August 6, when his Hurricane, N 2456, crashed and burned out in Debden Park shortly after take-off on a routine air test, from an unknown cause. Britton is buried in All Saints’ churchyard, Wimbish, Essex. He is remembered on a memorial plaque at George Heriot’s School, unveiled on November 11 2005.

Born in Auckland on March 27 1919, Brinsden was educated at Takapuna Grammar School and after leaving he worked as a bank clerk. He applied for a short service commission in 1937. He was provisionally accepted and sailed for England in the RMS Arawa in mid-August. Brinsden began his elementary flying at 7 E&RFTS, Desford on September 27 1937, as a pupil pilot. In midDecember he was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney and on July 9 1938, with training completed, he joined 19 Squadron at Duxford. Over Dunkirk on May 26 1940 Brinsden destroyed a Ju 87 and shared another and on the 27th he shared in destroying a Hs 126 over Ypres. On August 31 Brinsden was late taking off. Trying to catch up with the squadron, he met a Bf 110 head-on at 22000 feet. The German pilot fired first and his Spitfire, R 6958, went into a dive. Brinsden baled out at 5000 feet and landed unhurt. On September 9 he shared in probably destroying a probable He 111. On November 6 1940 he was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant and posted from 19 Squadron to RAF Leconfield. He joined 303 Squadron there the next day, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. Brinsden was appointed British Liaison Officer with 303 from January 1 1941, when Polish officers took command of the squadron.He returned to operations on March 26 1941, when he joined the newly-formed 485 Squadron at Driffield, as a Flight Commander. He went to the MSFU at Speke on July 22 1941, as Port Loading Officer. Brinsden took command of 3 ADU at High Ercall in mid-August 1942. He was posted to 54 OTU, Charter Hall in February 1943, for a night-fighting conversion course, after which he joined 25 Squadron at Church Fenton. On August 17 1943 Brinsden was captain of Mosquito HX 826, supporting bombers raiding Peenemunde. He decided to bomb Sylt airfield and successfully attacked the hangars at rooftop height. He was then picked up and blinded by searchlights. With vision almost lost, he headed out to sea but struck the surface of the water and broke both airscrews. Brinsden ditched the aircraft. He and the navigator got into their dinghy and attempted to sail out of the bay under an offshore breeze. Dawn brought a wind change and at midday on the 18th they were blown ashore into the arms of German troops, who had been watching them for six hours. Eventually, Brinsden found himself in Stalag Luft 3. He was released on May 9 1945, went on a pilot refresher course and then took command of No 3 Missing Research and Enquiry Unit, tracing Allied aircrew. After a leave in New Zealand in March 1947, Brinsden was given a Permanent Commission in June. He served in a number of ground and flying appointments before his retirement on December 31 1966 as a Wing Commander. He went to live in Western Australia and he died there in 1993.

APO 8.8.39

HARRY BROADHURST 24035 WC Pilot British

1 Squadron

Born on October 28 1905 at Frimley, Surrey, Broadhurst went to Portsmouth Grammar School. He joined the Territorial Army on May 21 1925, in the Hampshire Heavy Brigade, RA (TA) and was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant in the Royal Artillery. In 1926 he transferred to the RAF and on October 1 was posted to 11 (Bomber) Squadron at Netheravon, under instruction. The squadron went out to India and Broadhurst received a Mention in Despatches for service on the NorthWest Frontier (26.6.31). Back in Britain, he was posted to 41 Squadron at Northolt on September 16 1931. He received a medium service commission on October 1 1931. Broadhurst went to RAF Calshot, under instruction, on September 18 1933, moved to 19 Squadron at Duxford on November 26 and was awarded the AFC (1.2.37). He was granted a Permanent Commission on June 1 1936. Broadhurst joined the Personnel Staff of 2 (Bomber) Group at Andover on September 2 1937, leaving there on January 24 1938, for a course at RAF Staff College, Andover. In January 1939 Broadhurst took command of 111 Squadron at Northolt. He was awarded the DFC (2.1.40) for taking off alone on November 29 1939, in very bad weather conditions, to intercept an approaching enemy aircraft. He found it and attacked, causing it to dive into cloud very close to sea level, so close that he almost went into the sea himself. Broadhurst left 111 on January 24 1940 and went to HQ 11 Group, as an Acting Wing Commander. He was posted from HQ 11 Group to RAF Coltishall on May 10 1940, as a Squadron Leader. He joined 60 Wing in France on May 18 and on the 20th he destroyed a Bf 110 near Arras. Broadhurst returned to England on May 29, after being appointed Station Commander at RAF Wittering. During the Battle of Britain he flew occasional operational sorties with No 1 Squadron, thus qualifying for the clasp. On December 23 1940 Broadhurst took command of RAF Hornchurch and, apart from a few weeks in October/November 1941, he held it until May 1942. On February 25 1941, flying with the Hornchurch Wing, Broadhurst destroyed a Bf 109 and probably a second, on March 5 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another, on June 17 destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another, on the 21st destroyed two Bf 109s, on the 24th damaged two more, on the 25th probably destroyed another two Bf 109s, on July 3 shot down a Bf 109 and probably a second, on the 4th destroyed two Bf 109s, on the 7th destroyed two more and probably a third, on September 24 shot down a Bf 109 and on October 1 damaged another. He was awarded the DSO (4.7.41) and a Bar (19.12.41), the citation for the latter crediting him with twelve Bf 109s destroyed and four probables. Broadhurst’s tally of German fighters continued to increase in 1942. On February 12, the day of the Channel Dash by the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau, Broadhurst got a probable Bf 109, on April 27 he damaged a Bf 109 and a FW 190 and on August 19, during the Dieppe Raid, he destroyed a FW 190 and damaged three others. Broadhurst had been Deputy SASO at 11 Group since May 1942 and returned to Hornchurch to lead the Wing to Dieppe. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (29.9.42). Posted to the Middle East as SASO to the AOC Western Desert in late 1942, he took over as AOC Allied Air Forces, Western Desert in 1943. He commanded 83 Group Allied Expeditionary Air Force in 1944-45. On October 1 1956 Broadhurst was the co-pilot and one of two survivors when an Avro Vulcan crashed at Heathrow airport returning from a round-the-world tour.

APO 30.11.37 PO 27.9.38 FO 27.3.40 FL 27.3.41 SL 1.6.42 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.1.54

ALLAN WALTER NAYLOR BRITTON 72033 FO Pilot British 263 Squadron Britton, of Wallasey, Cheshire, went to Fettes School. He was at Trinity College, Cambridge, where he got an Honours degree in Classics. Britton was a member of the University Air Squadron and was commissioned in the RAFVR in November 1937. Called up on September 25 1939, he went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on October 9, on No 42 Course. He completed his flying training on March 23 1940 and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 24th. He converted to Hurricanes and joined 263 Squadron at Filton on April 21 but does not appear to have been with it on either of its two expeditions to Norway in April and May 1940. Britton served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. He was killed on December 12 1940, when his Whirlwind crashed into the sea off Burnham. He was 23 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 5. PO (RAFVR) 23.11.37

PO 24.2.40

PO 25.5.39 FO 3.12.39

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Broadhurst retired from the RAF on March 1 1961, as an Air Chief Marshal, after a most distinguished career, spanning thirty-five years. As well as his gallantry awards, he was made a CB (1944), KBE (1945), KCB (1955), GCB (1960), Knight Grand Cross of Order of Orange Nassau, and Legion of Merit (US). Broadhurst’s portrait was undertaken by Captain Cuthbert Orde in 1941. Broadhurst died in August 1995.

by a Sea Otter. He led the Wing until July 1944. He was awarded the DSO (1.12.44). He returned to operations in January 1945, to lead 122 Wing, Volkel. He damaged a Bf 109 on February 22. Brooker was shot down and killed on April 16 1945, leading 486 Squadron on a Wing operation. Brooker was awarded a Bar to the DSO (12.2.46), which was given with effect from the day before his death. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 264.

PO 1.10.26 FO 1.4.28 FL 1.6.32 SL 1.6.37 WC 1.6.40 AC 1.7.47 AVM 1.7.49 AM 1.1.54 ACM 14.2.57

APO 12.7.37 PO 5.4.38 FO 5.1.40 FL 5.1.41 SL 1.3.42

GC 1.6.42

AC 31.1.44

RICHARD WALLER BROOKMAN NZ 40186 Sgt Observer New Zealander

JOHN WILLIAM BROADHURST 41898 PO Pilot British 222 Squadron

235 Sqdn

Born at Waitara on November 24 1912, Brookman was educated at New Plymouth Boys’ High School and Wellington College.

Broadhurst, from Crayford, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his training on February 6 1939, as a pupil pilot. He did his ab initio course at 11 E&RFTS, Perth and in April he went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton.

A commercial traveller, Brookman volunteered for aircrew duties at the end of September 1939 and was accepted as a trainee Observer. He completed the ground course at Weraroa and did his flying training at the Air Observers’ School, Ohakea. Brookman sailed for the United Kingdom in the RMS Rangitata on June 6 1940. Soon after arrival, he was posted to 17 OTU, Upwood and on October 2 he joined 106 (Bomber) Squadron at Finningley but after ten days he was posted to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton. On February 22 1941 Brookman was in a Blenheim on a patrol over the coast of Denmark. After attacking an enemy aircraft thirty miles W of Borkum, the Blenheim was seen to crash into the sea and the crew were reported ‘Missing’. Brookman is named on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 63.

Broadhurst was posted to 222 Squadron, at its reformation at Duxford on October 5 1939. Initially flying Blenheims, the squadron began receiving Spitfires in March 1940. On May 29, after a patrol over Dunkirk, Broadhurst failed to find Hornchurch in bad visibility, ran out of fuel and made a crash landing. On August 31 Broadhurst claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and another damaged, on September 4 a Bf 109 destroyed and another damaged, on the 7th a Bf 109 destroyed, on the 9th a Bf 109 damaged, on the 11th a Ju 88 probably destroyed, on the 15th a Bf 110 damaged and on the 27th a Bf 109 destroyed. He was shot down on October 7 1940, during an attack on enemy bombers. He baled out but fell dead at Longhurst. His Spitfire, P 9469, crashed and burned out at Baileys Reed Farm, Hurst Green, Salehurst. Broadhurst was 23. He is buried in Hornchurch Cemetery, Essex.

PHILIP WILLIAM BROOM 50924 Sgt Air Gunner British

25 Squadron

APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39 Broom joined the RAF in June 1938, as an Aircrafthand (613534), and later volunteered for aircrew training. He was with 25 Squadron at North Weald by April 11 1940, as an Aircraftsman.

RICHARD EDGAR PETER BROOKER 39931 FO Pilot British 56 Squadron

He was an LAC by May 25 and a Sergeant by June 21 1940. He was still with 25 Squadron in November 1940. Broom was promoted to Warrant Officer on March 1 1942, commissioned in December 1942 and released from the RAF in 1949 as a Flight Lieutenant.

Born in Chessington, Surrey in 1918, Brooker was at the Royal Masonic School, Bushey, Hertfordshire. After leaving, he trained as a school master.

PO 15.12.42 FO 15.6.43 FL 15.12.44 FL 16.6.46

Brooker joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his training on April 5 1937, as a pupil pilot. On July 17 he was posted to 9 FTS, Hullavington and with training completed, he joined 56 Squadron at North Weald on February 19 1938. Brooker was posted to No 1 Recruit Centre, Uxbridge for duty on May 8 1940. He rejoined 56 from HQ 11 Group on the 21st. On July 13 1940 Brooker claimed a Ju 87 destroyed, on the 25th he damaged a Bf 109, on August 16 he damaged a Do 17 and on the 21st he shared a Do 17. In this engagement he was shot down by return fire and slightly injured, when he made a forced-landing at Flowton Brook, Bramford. His Hurricane, P3153, burned out. Brooker was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on September 1, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. On September 30 he damaged a Do 17, on October 7 he claimed a Bf 110 and a Do 17, both probably destroyed. In late 1940 Brooker was posted to CGS, Sutton Bridge, as an instructor. A return to operations came in late April 1941, when Brooker was given command of No 1 Squadron. During the night of May 11/12 he shot down a He 111 over London and attacked three more. Brooker damaged a Bf 109 on May 21 and destroyed another on June 21. He was awarded the DFC (30.5.41). Brooker was posted to the Far East on November 3 1941. He took command of 232 Squadron at Singapore on January 20 1942, after the CO was killed. On the 26th Brooker shot down a Kawasaki Ki 27 and on February 13 a Ki 48. During the retreat in late February, 232 Squadron reached Java, where it combined with the ground staff of 242 Squadron, whose pilots and aircraft had remained in Malta. On March 4 Brooker destroyed a Japanese fighter. It was decided to destroy the squadron‘s remaining Hurricanes, after which Brooker and some pilots flew in a Lodestar to Australia. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (27.3.42). Whilst in Australia, Brooker helped form and then commanded 77 (RAAF) Squadron, flying Kittyhawks. He was posted back to the UK and commanded No 1 SLAIS and later he temporarily commanded 59 OTU, Milfield. After a spell on the staff of the Fighter Leaders’ School there, Brooker was appointed Wing Leader of 123 Wing in May 1944, which he did until July. He had been flying the Typhoon MN 143, which he had brought with him from Milfield. On May 23 Brooker had to abandon this aircraft and bale out into the sea. He was picked up

PETER MALAM BROTHERS 37668 FL Pilot British 32 and 257 Squadrons Brothers, from Prestwich, was born on September 30 1917 and educated at North Manchester School. He learned to fly at 16 and joined the RAF on a short service commission, beginning as a pupil pilot on January 27 1936. He was posted to 9 FTS, Thornaby on April 4 and joined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on October 11 1936, becoming a Flight Commander in late 1938. He was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on March 2 1939. Still with 32 Squadron in 1940, Brothers claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on May 18, a Bf 110 on the 23rd, Bf 109s on July 19, 20 and 29, a Bf 110 on August 16, a Bf 109 and a Do 17 on the 18th and Bf 109s on the 22nd and 24th. Brothers was posted to 257 Squadron at Debden on September 9, as ‘B’ Flight Commander, and on the 15th he destroyed a Do 17 and a Ju 88. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on October 22. He was awarded the DFC (13.9.40).Brothers was posted to 55 OTU, Aston Down on December 16 1940 and he moved to 52 OTU, Debden in February 1941, as an instructor. He was sent to CFS, for a course. Brothers was posted to Baginton in June 1941, to form 457 (RAAF) Squadron, with Australian pilots and RAF ground crews. On March 26 1942 he destroyed a Bf 109 and on April 29 a probable FW 190. He took command of 602 Squadron at Redhill in June 1942 and on the 26th he damaged two FW 190s, on August 18 he destroyed a FW 190 and on the 19th damaged another. In October 1942 Brothers was appointed Wing Leader at Tangmere. He destroyed a FW 190 on January 26 1943 and was awarded a Bar to the DFC (15.6.43). On July 29 Brothers was posted to 61 OTU, Rednal and moved to a staff job at HQ 10 Group on November 22. He destroyed a FW 190 on January 12 1944.

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attachment to fly off, penetrate the fuselage and hole the main fuel tank. Brown jettisoned his two bombs and turned back, making a forced-landing on Herne Bay golf course. He volunteered for Fighter Command in August 1940 and went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 22nd. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 610 Squadron at Acklington on September 3 1940. Brown moved to 72 Squadron at Biggin Hill on the 20th. Three days later he was shot down by a Bf 109 over Gravesend. Wounded, with no control over the aircraft, Brown baled out and landed on marshy ground near Eastchurch, wounded in one leg and an elbow by cannon shell splinters. He was admitted to Minster Hospital and later transferred to Maidstone. Brown was posted from 72 to RAF Biggin Hill, as non-effective sick. On recovery, he went to 8 FTS, Montrose on November 29 1940, for an instructors’ course, after which he was posted to Rhodesia, subsequently instructing at Cumalo near Bulawayo. Brown returned to England in early 1943 and did a Transport Command course at Bramcote. He became a ferry pilot, flying between the United Kingdom and the Middle East. On January 1 1944 he transferred to the RNZAF and at the end of the year was flying Halifaxs on ferrying duties. He was released in 1945 to be a first officer on Dakotas with BOAC. Brown later joined BEA and flew with the airline until his retirement in 1972. He then returned to New Zealand to live.

A return to operations came in April 1944, when Brothers was appointed Wing Leader at Exeter. There were six squadrons in the Wing, scattered over various airfields and difficult to control. Brothers split the Wing into two parts. He continued as Culmhead Wing Leader and Wing Commander H A C Bird-Wilson took over the Harrowbeer Wing. On August 7 Brothers destroyed a FW 190. In October 1944 he was posted away and awarded the DSO (3.11.44). Brothers went to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas for a course at the Command and General Staff School. After returning to Britain, he was posted to the Central Fighter Establishment, where he stayed until leaving the RAF in March 1947. In September 1945 Brothers took part in the first Battle of Britain flypast over London, led by Douglas Bader. He joined the Colonial Service and served in Kenya, where he flew his own aircraft. Brothers rejoined the RAF in 1949, was posted to Bomber Command and given command of 57 Squadron. He took it to Singapore on March 15 1950, the first bomber squadron to participate in the Malayan campaign He returned to Britain on July 11. A long and distinguished career in the RAF followed, ending with Brothers’ retirement on April 4 1973, as an Air Commodore. He was made a CBE in 1964 and in the following year was one of The Few who took part in Sir Winston Churchill’s funeral procession. He was Chairman of the Battle of Britain Fighter Association from 2003 until his death, which occurred on December 18 2008. APO 23.3.36 PO 27.1.37 FO 27.10.38 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41 WC 1.7.45 SL 5.8.46 WC 1.1.53 GC 1.1.59 AC 1.7.66

APO 13.1.39 PO 15.11.39

ARCHIBALD WILKINSON BROWN 78744 PO Air Gunner British 25 Squadron

FO 3.9.40 FL 15.11.41

CHARLES WALTER DRYBURGH BROWN 902211 Sgt Air Gunner British 236 Squadron

Brown was commissioned as a direct-entry Air Gunner in April 1940. He was on No 12 Air Gunner Course at 7 B&GS at Manby from May 6 to June 1.

Brown, of Ightham Common, Kent, enlisted in the RAFVR in September 1939 at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner.

On completion, he was posted to 25 Squadron at North Weald. Brown was attached to CGS from July 15 to August 9. On September 14 1940 he was flying with Pilot Officer MJ Herrick in a night sortie over London. They intercepted and shot down a He 111, which crashed at Newmans End, near Sheering, Essex. No further details are known of Brown’s time in the RAF. He was released in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1997.

With training completed, he joined 236 Squadron in 1940. He was posted to Bomber Command in early 1941and joined 7 Squadron, based at Oakington. Brown failed to return from an operation to Hamburg on June 30 1941. His aircraft, Stirling N 3664, was shot down by a night-fighter of 6/NJG 1 36 kilometres NE of Bremen. At the time of his death Brown was a Flight Sergeant. He is buried in Becklingen War Cemetery, Soltau, Germany.

APO 12.4.40 PO 1.6.40 FO 1.6.41 FL 1.6.42

CYRIL BOB BROWN 109525 Sgt Pilot British

ARTHUR EDGAR BROWN 112389 Sgt Pilot British 234 Squadron

Brown, who was born on January 17 1921, was educated at Southend Grammar School. He joined the RAFVR in May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745065), and did his elementary flying at 34 E&RFTS, Rochford.

Brown enlisted in 611 Squadron, AAF for four years in mid-1935, as an Aircrafthand (811139). He later applied for pilot-training and had already begun flying tuition before being called to full-time service on August 24 1939.

Called up at the outbreak of war, Brown completed his training at 11 FTS, Shawbury and RAF College FTS, Cranwell, converted to Hurricanes at 5 OTU and then joined 245 Squadron at Aldergrove on October 4 1940. Brown was posted to 253 at Kenley in late November 1940. He was commissioned in October 1941 and in early 1942 he joined 616 Squadron at King’s Cliff. On May 25 1942 Brown attacked a Do 17 over Leicester. Return fire shattered his hood and a splinter of perspex entered his right eye. He managed to land at North Luffenham. The eye was removed and Brown went back to 616 to continue his tour. He was checked in a dual trainer and then soloed in a Spitfire. He stayed on operations due to the intercession of Basil Embry. Brown was later posted to 532 Turbinlite Havoc Squadron at Wittering. In 1943 he became a test pilot at the Aircraft and Armament Experimental Establishment at Boscombe Down. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.46). In late 1946 he went on a course at the Empire Test Pilots’ School at Cranfield, after which he returned to Boscombe Down. In 1948 he was appointed as a tutor at the Empire Test Pilots’ School. Brown held a number of appointments and commands, including 220 (Maritime Reconnaissance) Squadron in 1954-56, before he retired on January 17 1972 as an Air Commodore. He was made CBE in 1966. He died on November 1 2003.

Brown was posted to 11 EFTS, Perth from 611 on October 21. He moved on to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on April 28 1940, on No 47 Course. He completed his course on August 3. Brown was posted back to 611 Squadron on the 10th. He was immediately attached to 7 OTU, Hawarden, to convert to Spitfires. On September 6 it was learned at 611 Squadron that Brown had been posted from 7 OTU to 234 Squadron at Middle Wallop, instead of returning to 611. It would seem that he was posted to 234 on or about September 2 1940. He did not return to 611. Brown was posted away to 2 CFS from 234 on January 12 1941, for an instructor’s course. He was commissioned in October 1941. No other service details traced. PO 24.10.41

BERNARD WALTER BROWN 41548 PO Pilot New Zealander

245 Squadron

610 and 72 Sqdns

Born at Stratford, New Zealand on December 6 1917, Brown was educated at Stratford Technical High School and subsequently worked for the Post Office. He applied for a short service commission in February 1938, was accepted and left for England on September 22 in the RMS Rangitane.

PO 11.10.41 FO 11.10.42 FL 11.10.43 SL 1.7.50 WC 1.7.56 GC 1.7.60 AC 1.1.67

De PEYSTER BROWN C 1094 PO Pilot American

Brown began his training at 5 E&RFTS, Hanworth on October 31 1938, as a pupil pilot. In late January 1939 he was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand. At the end of August, with training completed, he went to No 1 School of Army Co-Operation at Old Sarum, for a course on Lysanders, and joined 613 Squadron at Odiham on October 6 1939. In May 1940 the squadron was made operational and moved to Hawkinge. On the 26th Brown was flying one of six Hectors detailed to dive-bomb gun emplacements near Calais. En route, he test-fired his forward gun but the omission of a split pin caused the muzzle

1 (RCAF) Squadron

Brown was commissioned in the Auxiliary Active Air Force, as a Pilot Officer, on September 9 1939. He was with 112 (RCAF) Squadron in May 1940, when it was based at Rockcliffe, Ontario. The squadron left Canada on June 9 and arrived in the UK on the 20th, where it became a holding unit for Canadian pilots.

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He was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 19, to convert to Hurricanes, after which he joined No 1 (RCAF) Squadron at Northolt on August 31. On September 27 Brown claimed a Ju 88 destroyed and shared another and on the 30th he damaged a Bf 109. He was still with No 1 (RCAF) in November 1940. He transferred to the USAAF on May 25 1942.

Brown was 28 years. He was buried in Neuer Friedhof Cemetery, Lingen (Ems). He was later reinterred in Reichswald Forest War Cemetery, Cleves, Germany. PO 27.5.43

MARK HENRY BROWN 37904 FL Pilot Canadian

FREDERICK SYDNEY BROWN 46784 F/Sgt Pilot British 79 Squadron

Brown was born on October 9 1911 at Portage la Prairie, Manitoba. After leaving school, he worked for the Bank of Montreal, in Saskatchewan.

Brown, who was born on November 27 1912, joined the RAF as an Apprentice Clerk on April 24 1929 (590264). He passed out on April 28 1931. He signed a twelve-year engagement on November 27 1930, his 18th birthday.

He left Saskatoon for England in early 1936. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began training on May 11 1936, as a pupil pilot. He went to 9 FTS, Thornaby on July 18 and after completing the course, he joined No 1 Squadron at Tangmere on February 21 1937. Brown went to France with the squadron soon after the outbreak of war. On November 23 1939 he shared in destroying a Do 17, on March 2 1940 he shared a Do 17 and on April 20 destroyed a Bf 109. On May 10 Brown shared a Do 17, on the 11th destroyed two Bf 110s, on the 14th a Bf 109 and a Ju 87, on the 15th a Bf 110, on the 17th another Bf 110 , on the 18th a Hs 126, on the 19th a He 111 and on the 21st another. He was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant and appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on May 31. On June 1 Brown damaged a Bf 109, on the 5th he destroyed a Do 17 and on the 14th a He 111 and a Bf 109. He was shot down on June 15 and baled out over France. He managed to get a lift to Brest and then got on a boat to Southampton. The squadron pilots flew their Hurricanes from France to Tangmere on the 18th and Brown arrived there that evening. For his efforts in France, Brown was awarded the DFC (30.7.40). No 1 was fully operational again by the end of July. On August 11 Brown claimed a Bf 110 destroyed. Four days later he was shot down and baled out, slightly injured, into the sea and was rescued by a trawler. On September 6 he damaged a Ju 88 and on October 24 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17. Brown took command of the squadron on November 10 1940, when the CO was killed in a flying accident. On February 8 1941 he damaged a Bf 109 on the ground, when he led No 1 Squadron on a ‘Rhubarb’ to Arques. At the end of April Brown was promoted and posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as Squadron Leader Flying. Promoted again on July 1, he went to 57 OTU, Hawarden, as CO Training Wing. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (23.5.41). In late October 1941 Brown was posted to Malta, as Wing Commander Flying. On November 12 he was leading 249 Squadron over Sicily on his first Wing operation. Hit by flak, he was last seen gliding down. On the night of December 6 the Italians dropped a note, saying that Brown had crashed and been killed and that he was buried with military honours in Catania War Cemetery, Italy.

He later applied for pilot training and was accepted. Brown was with 79 Squadron at the outbreak of war. On November 21 1939 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17 S of Hawkinge, which crashed into the Channel. On July 4 1940 Brown damaged a Do 17. Brown was commissioned in September 1941 from Warrant Officer and retired on December 9 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on December 14 1956. PO 30.9.41 FO 30.9.42 FL 30.9.43

GEORGE ALFRED BROWN 39851 FO Pilot British 253 Squadron Born in India on July 6 1912, Brown joined the RAF on a short service commission and began training at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham on May 10 1937, as a pupil pilot, and flew his first solo on the 31st. On July 17 he went to 5 FTS, Sealand. On completion of the course, Brown was posted to SHQ Duxford. He flew his first Spitfire on November 24 1938, details unknown. He joined 66 Squadron at Duxford on January 30 1939. The squadron went on a sortie to Holland on May 12 1940, to attack German bombers over Rotterdam. Brown shot down a Ju 87 and damaged another. Hit by return fire, he landed at Knocke, Belgium to assess damage and refuel. One of his tyres had been punctured by a bullet and he swerved on landing and ended up in a bomb crater, upside down. The Belgians issued Brown with a travel permit but suspicious French authorities detained him for two days at the border. He was freed after consultation with an RAF liaison officer, who sent him on to Dunkirk, where he embarked on HMS Codrington, which was taking Princess Juliana and Prince Bernhardt to England. Brown was posted to 253 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on May 26 1940, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant, ‘A’ Flight Commander. He was shot down on August 30 in combat with Bf 109s, and made a forced-landing near Maidstone, in Hurricane P 3802. Brown, wounded in the shoulder and with shell splinters in the legs, was admitted to Preston Hall Hospital. On October 1 1940 Brown was posted to 71 (Eagle) Squadron, recently-reformed at Church Fenton, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. He was with the squadron until August 1 1941, when he left to command 133 (Eagle) Squadron, then forming at Coltishall. In November 1941 he went to a staff job at HQ Fighter Command and was awarded the DFC (26.12.41). Brown was posted to command 257 Squadron at Exeter on September 23 1942. In April 1943 he went to 55 OTU, Annan, as CFI. He was later on the staff at HQ Eastern Mediterranean at Alexandria, commanded RAF Gaza from March 22 1945 and later commanded RAF Nicosia. Brown retired from the RAF on July 6 1962 as a Group Captain. From 1962 to 1967 he was Regional Liaison Officer, ATC, Wales and from 1967 to 1977 he was Commandant, ATC, Wales. Brown died in 1998. His ashes were buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Tangmere.

APO 6.7.36 PO 11.5.37

FO 11.12.38

FL 3.9.40

MARVIN KITCHENER BROWN 42101 PO Pilot Canadian 242 Squadron Brown, of Kincardine, Ontario, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 13 1939, as a pupil pilot. After completing his flying training, he was posted to 242 Squadron at Church Fenton on November 6. Brown was sent to France on May 16 1940 and attached to 85 Squadron. Two days later he was shot down and suffered bullet wounds in the right leg. He was evacuated to England and rejoined 242 on July 13. Brown was on a local flight in Hurricane N 2476 on February 21 1941, when he crashed at Grange Farm, Alderton and was killed. He is buried in Ipswich Cemetery.

APO 5.7.37 PO 10.5.38 FO 10.12.39 FL 10.12.40 SL 1.3.42 WC 1.10.46 GC 1.7.53

JAMES WOOD BROWN 144933 Sgt Air Gunner British

1 Squadron

600 Squadron

Brown, of Broadmayne, Dorset, joined 600 Squadron AAF for four years in 1936, as an Aircrafthand (800416). He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner.

APO 13.5.39 PO 6.11.39

Called up on August 24 1939, he completed his training and had rejoined 600 Squadron at Northolt by June 1 1940. During the Battle of Britain, Brown flew sixteen operational sorties. He later retrained as a pilot. He was commissioned in May 1943, possibly on completion of his pilot training. Brown was killed on November 22 1943 as a Pilot Officer with 158 Squadron, operating in Halifaxs from Lissett, Yorkshire. On an operation to Berlin, his Halifax, HR 977, was shot down and crashed near Klein Berssen, 13 Km E of Meppen.

MAURICE PETER BROWN 40796 FO Pilot British 611 and 41 Squadrons Brown was born in London on June 17 1919 and was educated at Holloway School. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his flying training on April 4 1938, as a pupil pilot. In mid-June Brown went to 5 FTS, Sealand and gained his wings in September. At the end of the course he went to No 1 Electrical and Wireless

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went out of control and he and the air gunner were ordered to bale out, which they did and landed safely. The pilot regained control of the Blenheim and returned to Middle Wallop. Brown flew operationally with 604, firstly in Blenheims amd then Beaufighters until December 1940, when he was posted back to Yatesbury for another radar course. In these five months he flew without rank or brevet, receiving three shillings a day, including one shilling flying pay. After completing the radar mechanic course and gaining practical experience, Brown was attached to RAE, Farnborough, where he remained until his release in February 1946.

School at Cranwell in January 1939, as a staff pilot. On September 21 Brown joined 611 Squadron at Duxford. During the winter of 1939/40 the squadron flew convoy patrols, losing several pilots because of atrocious weather conditions. Over Dunkirk on June 2 1940, in an action with a large formation of Bf 109s, Brown’s Spitfire was damaged and he landed back at base with a burst tyre. He shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on August 21, over the sea, off Mabelthorpe. During September 611 flew as part of the Duxford Wing. On the 15th Brown destroyed a He 111 and shared a probable Do 17. On September 29 1940 Brown went to 41 Squadron at Hornchurch. Next day he damaged a Do 17. He shot down a Bf 109 on October 20 and the pilot baled out near Ashford. Brown landed at West Malling and collected the German pilot’s lifejacket, as confirmation of his victory. The squadron jumped a formation of forty Bf 109s on the 25th. Brown attacked one and claimed it as a probable, when it disappeared into cloud, streaming glycol. This aircraft was later confirmed as destroyed. In January 1941 Brown was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander. He was posted away on June 28 to 61 OTU, Heston, as a Flight Commander. On July 15 1942 he was transferred to the Empire Flying School at Hullavington and qualified as a flying instructor in October. Brown was then posted to 56 OTU, Tealing, again as a Flight Commander. From July 21 1943 Brown was attached to 17 FTS at Cranwell, where he trained Turkish pilots on Spitfires to operational level. On January 1 1944 he was posted to Training Command, as Squadron Leader Flying and OC Satellite at 5, 9 and 14 AFUs, flying Harvards and Oxfords. Awarded the AFC (1.1.46), Brown was released from the RAF later in the year, as a Squadron Leader. He entered the plastics industry and in 1965 gained a Fellowship of the Plastics Institute. After retirement, Brown continued as a management consultant. For many years he was busy as a healer, working with cancer patients and in a healing clinic. Brown died on January 20 2011.

RONALD CLIFFORD BROWN 41822 FO Pilot British 229 Squadron Brown was educated at Dulwich College. He joined the RAF on January 23 1939, as a candidate for a short service commission. He did his ab initio course, as a pupil pilot, and with flying training completed, he joined 229 Squadron at Digby on October 23 1939. Over Dunkirk on May 29 1940 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and on October 15 he claimed another. Brown later served with 111 Squadron. He damaged a FW 190 over Dunkirk on April 25 1942. He was in hospital early in 1945, after injuring his knee, playing for the RAF in a rugby match. Brown was released from the RAF later in 1945, as a Squadron Leader, and died on March 19 1988, aged 67. He is remembered on a plaque at Dulwich College, unveiled on March 14 2002. APO 1.4.39 PO 23.10.39 FO 23.10.40 FL 23.10.41

APO 4.6.38 PO 4.4.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.1.44

RONALD JOHN WALKER BROWN 44925 PO Pilot British 111 Squadron NORMAN McHARDY BROWN 84958 PO Pilot British 611 and 41 Squadrons

Born on March 9 1914, Brown went to John Ruskin Central School, Croydon. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice (563611), in September 1929 and passed out in August 1932. After an Engine Fitter course, he was posted to the Flying Wing at RAF College, Cranwell, as an AC 1.

Brown was born in Edinburgh on July 27 1919 and educated at South Morningside Primary School and George Heriot’s School. He joined the RAFVR in August 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (758257).

He received many ‘unofficial’ hours dual training on Tutor and Atlas aircraft there. He applied for pilot training and was selected in late 1935. In December 1935 Brown joined 10 (Bomber) Squadron at Boscombe Down, solely on the strength of his soccer prowess as an RAF football representative. He went to 9 E&RFTS, Ansty in May 1936, then to 9 FTS, Thornaby in July, received his wings in November and joined 111 Squadron at Northolt on February 22 1937. The squadron was the first to be equipped with Hurricanes, in December 1938, and was used a great deal in tactical trials. In May 1940, 111 Squadron carried out daily patrols over France, sometimes operating from French airfields, returning to Northolt in the evening. On May 31 over Dunkirk, Brown got a probable Bf 109. On June 6 he was shot down by a Bf 109, when escorting Blenheims in the Abbeville area. He baled out and luckily was picked up by a Guards unit moving south, taken to a field hospital, put on a train and then sent in a hospital ship back to England. Brown rejoined his squadron on August 15 1940. Three days later he shared a Do 17, which crashed and burned out at Leaves Green, near Biggin Hill. On August 24 he damaged a Bf 109 and on September 2 he shared in destroying a He 111 and damaging another Bf 109. Commissioned in September, Brown was posted to 260 Squadron at Castletown on December 7 1940, to train new pilots. On February 2 1941 he went to the AFDU at Duxford, where he flew many types of enemy and American aircraft. In October 1941 Brown was posted to the Ministry of Aircraft Production and transferred to the RAF Engineering Branch, closely involved with aircraft development and much later with the Martin Baker ejector seat. Brown retired from the RAF on May 12 1947, as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. He joined Percival Aircraft as Technical Sales Manager. In 1962 he moved to BAC and retired from British Aerospace in April 1979, as Executive Director (Marketing and Sales). He was made an MBE for services to exports. He died on November 9 2003.

Called up on September 1, Brown went to 3 ITW, Hastings, until April 1940, when he moved to 16 EFTS, Shoreham. He went to 5 FTS, Sealand on No 49 Course, which ran from June 15 to September 6. He was commissioned next day. On the 7th Brown arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden, to convert to Spitfires. He was posted from there on September 28 to 611 Squadron at Digby. He moved to 41 Squadron at Hornchurch on October 12 1940. Brown was one of a flight of Spitfires that overshot Hornchurch in poor visibility on November 1 and went into the London Barrage Balloon area. He struck a cable, seriously damaging his aircraft. He made a forced-landing on a small piece of open ground in the built-up area of Dagenham. This incident was a contributing factor to his being posted away from the squadron in late February 1941 and discharged from the RAF in April. After leaving, Brown worked for the Forestry Commission in Scotland and continued this career after the war, becoming a senior manager. He was District Commissioner for the West of Scotland. Brown died on December 16 2013 PO 7.9.40

ROBERT SYDNEY BROWN 1003565 AC 2 Radar Operator

British

604 Squadron

Brown was born on October 2 1915 in Gateshead and was educated at Shipcote School and Gateshead Secondary School. He joined the RAFVR in early June 1940 at 3 RAF Depot, Padgate. After initial training, he volunteered for flying duties. At the end of June he went to RAF Yatesbury for a short course on airborne radar and on July 20 he was posted to 604 Squadron at Gravesend, never having flown. On the night of November 1 Brown was in a Blenheim on a fighter patrol. The aircraft

PO 26.9.40 FO 25.4.41 FL 25.4.42 SL 22.4 45 SL 1.7.45

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CHARLES BROWNE 127561 Sgt Air Gunner

British

destroyed and probably a Hs 126 and on the 11th he claimed two Bf 109s destroyed and a Ju 88 damaged. Bruce was detached to the School of Air Navigation, St Athan on July 2 1940, for a navigation course. He rejoined the squadron on August 25, was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant and given command of ‘B’ Flight. Next day he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and on September 2 he shared a He 111 and damaged a Bf 110. Bruce was reported ‘Missing’ on September 4, after being shot down by Bf 109s. His Hurricane, R 4172, is believed to have crashed into the Channel five miles E of Folkestone. He was 22. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 4.

219 Squadron

Browne enlisted in the RAFVR on September 8 1939 at 2 RAF Depot, Cardington, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner (936385), for the duration of hostilities. He went to 3 B&GS, Aldergrove on January 8 1940. On completion of a gunnery course, he was posted to 235 Squadron at Manston on February 25. He was still an AC 2 on March 31 1940. He moved to 219 Squadron at Catterick on May 23 1940. Browne crash-landed in a Blenheim on August 2, baled out of another on October 19, when ordered to do so by the pilot, who later made a successful crash-landing, and on December 12 Browne was involved in a crash-landing in a Beaufighter. He was posted to 77 Squadron on June 3 1941, flying in Whitleys from Topcliffe in Yorkshire. Browne left the squadron on August 21 and was graded as medically unfit for flying in January 1942. He was commissioned in the RAF Regiment in August 1942 and posted to the Middle East. Browne was released from the RAF on October 26 1945 as a Flying Officer. He died in 1993.

APO 5.7.37 PO 10.5.38 FO 10.12.39

NORMAN BRUMBY 742228 Sgt Pilot British

615 and 607 Squadrons

Born in Kingston-upon-Hull, Brumby was educated at Thoresby Primary School and Boulevard Secondary School. He joined the RAFVR in October 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1 1939, completed his training and joined 103 Squadron, flying Battles.

PO (RAF Regt) 28.8.42 FO (RAF Regt) 28.8.43

DENNIS OWEN MATTHEW BROWNE 41234 PO Pilot British 1 Squadron

Brumby was in France with the squadron. He was shot down on June 14 1940 and made a forced-landing near Laval. He rejoined the squadron the same day. He volunteered for Fighter Command and joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick on September 4 1940. He moved to 607 Squadron at Tangmere on the 21st. He was shot down and killed on October 1, in combat with Bf 109s over the Isle of Wight. Brumby was 20. He is buried in Hull Northern Cemetery, Yorkshire.

Browne was born on November 6 1918 in Willesden, Middlesex. His family moved to Hove and he was educated at Hove College and then Xaverian College, Mayfield, from 1928 to 1934. His first job was as a clerk at a motor engineering company in Hove and from 1937 he was a sales representative with another Hove company. Browne joined the RAFVR on December 5 1937 as an Airman u/t Pilot (740894). He began his flying training at 16 E&RFTS, Shoreham. He then successfully applied for a short service commission in the RAF, was discharged from the RAFVR on October 16 1938 and posted to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on the 17th. Browne was awarded his flying badge on February 24 1939 and after completing his advanced flying training, he joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on April 15. During the last months of 1939, Browne was involved in a series of crashes. On October 29 he crashed in Spitfire K 9951, from which he escaped uninjured and with only slight damage to the aircraft. On November 7, piloting Magister P 6345, he hit high tension cables and on the 17th Browne crashed in Spitfire K 9875, again escaping without injury and with only slight damage to the aircraft. On December 1 Browne was posted to No 1 AACU at Farnborough. He later flew Henleys from Penrhos, towing drogues. Browne was posted to No 1 Squadron in France on May 21 1940. The squadron moved westwards as the Germans advanced and the pilots flew their Hurricanes back to Tangmere on June 18. After reorganising, the squadron was declared operational again on July 3 1940. On the 19th Browne was one of a section which intercepted a He 111 over the South Downs. The three pilots expended all their ammunition, without any apparent result. Browne continued to pursue the Heinkel until his Hurricane was set alight by return fire, causing him to make a crash-landing near Brighton. He got clear before the fuel tanks exploded. The He 111 was shot down by Hurricanes of 145 Squadron five miles off Shoreham. Browne failed to return from an afternoon engagement with Bf 109s and 110s on August 15 1940, off Harwich. His Hurricane, R 4075, is believed to have gone down into the sea. He was 22. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 7.

GEOFFREY CLIFFORD BRUNNER 43941 PO Pilot British 43 Squadron Born on April 7 1911, Brunner went to Bridgnorth Grammar School. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice, in September 1926 (560535) and passed out in August 1929, as a Fitter, Aero Engines. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot and began his flying at 2 FTS, Digby in July 1932. Brunner joined 17 Squadron at Upavon in August 1933, as a Sergeant-Pilot. In November 1936 Brunner went to 66 Squadron at Duxford. He took part in the Hendon Air Displays in 1935, 1936 and 1937, in converging dive-bombing attacks on a set piece and formation aerobatics with smoke. In October 1937 Brunner was appointed as a test pilot in the Performance Testing Section at the Aircraft and Armament Experimental Establishment, then at Martlesham Heath, but from September 1939 at Boscombe Down. From May 13 to 25 1940 he was on No 18 Course at the Blind Approach Training and Development Unit at Boscombe Down, detached from the A&AEE. Commissioned in June 1940, Brunner arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 2, for a refresher course. Seven days later he joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere. On July 7 he damaged a Do 17 in a low-level chase across the Channel, which ceased only when his ammunition was exhausted. Brunner was taken off operational flying on July 10, pending a posting back to the A&AEE but when it did not come, he returned to operations on August 24. Two days later 43 was deployed against a large raid on Portsmouth. After probably destroying a He 111, Brunner was hit and badly damaged by a Bf 109. Wounded in the ankle, he made a wheels-up landing at Tangmere and was admitted to the Royal West Sussex Hospital at Chichester. He was posted to RAF Tangmere, as non-effective sick on August 26. He was discharged from hospital on September 10. Brunner returned to duty with 43 Squadron on October 19. He was posted back to the A&AEE at Boscombe Down on October 30 1940. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.42) and Bar (21.7.43), the latter for successfully landing the prototype Westland Welkin, after engine and structural failure whilst on a test flight. On January 8 1945 Brunner went to RAF Staff College. He transferred to the Aircraft Control Branch in September 1945. In 1965 he took part in Sir Winston Churchill’s funeral procession. He retired on July 1 1966 as a Group Captain. Brunner died in 1989.

APO 17.10.38 PO 17.10.39

DAVID CAMPBELL BRUCE 39853 FO Pilot British 111 Squadron Bruce joined the RAF as a candidate for a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 10 1937, as a pupil pilot. On July 17 he was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand and after completing his training, he joined 111 Squadron at Northolt.

PO 21.6.40 FO 2.5.41 FL 2.5.42 SL 1.7.49 WC 1.1.58 GC 1.7.63

On April 8 1940 Bruce shared in probably destroying a He 111 off Scapa Flow. After the German onslaught on May 10, the squadron operated over France, sometimes from French airfields, returning to Northolt in the evening. Over Dunkirk on May 18 and 31 he claimed Bf 109s destroyed, on June 2 he possibly shot down a He 111 and damaged a Bf 109 and a Hs 126, on the 6th he claimed a Bf 109

Bryant was born on August 15 1920 and attended Solihull School, Warwickshire. He entered the Royal Navy in 1938, opting for the FAA. On June 25 1940 he was attached to Fighter Command and went to 5 OTU, Aston Down, where he flew Spitfires.

REGINALD FRANK BRYANT Midshipman (FAA) Pilot 245 Squadron

On July 6 he was posted to 263 Squadron at Grangemouth, moving to 219 Squadron, based at Catterick, on July 10. Another move, this time to 245 Squadron at Turnhouse, came on July 12. With 245 Bryant flew Hurricanes for the first time. He made two local flights on July 13 in Hurricane P 3549. Bryant took part in a patrol on the morning of July 15 and on

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STANISLAW BRZEZINA 76782 FL Pilot Polish 74 Squadron

the evening of that day he was involved in an action in which a Do 17 was damaged. On July 20 Bryant moved to 760 Naval Air Squadron at Eastleigh. He later served with 807 Squadron (Fulmars) aboard HMS Furious and at HMS Wara, Takoradi, Gold Coast, where aircraft were assembled and flown to Egypt via Sudan. He went on to serve with various squadrons in Egypt, Crete and the UK. From July 1944 to early 1945 he was in Ceylon. Bryant took command of 808 Squadron on HMS Khedive in June 1945 and flew in attacks on Sumatra and the liberation of Malaya. Bryant remained in the Navy after the war, transferring to the Ordnance Department in 1946. He was second in command of the gunnery range at Pendine Sands, south Wales. Later service included spells at Bath, Fort Halstead and the Royal Arsenal, Woolwich. He retired from the Navy in 1960, with the rank of Commander and became a senior executive or director with a number of companies including Ford and Mercedes Benz. Bryant died in 1974 following a coronary thrombosis.

Born in Poland on March 5 1904, Brzezina was in the Polish Air Force before the war. He arrived in England in early 1940 and was commissioned in the RAFVR in February. He was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down in July 1940, converted to Spitfires and joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 5. The next day Brzezina was transferred to the Polish Air Force but he continued to serve with 74. On August 13 he shot down a Do 17 and damaged another over the Thames Estuary but his own aircraft was hit by return fire. There was an explosion in the cockpit and Brzezina baled out unhurt, and landed safely. On September 25 he was posted away to take joint command of 308 Squadron, then being formed at Baginton. This was an administrative error and Brzezina went to HQ 12 Group on October 24, for staff duties. He returned very briefly to 308 on November 9 1940, on attachment, but went to HQ 9 Group two days later, also on attachment. Brzezina returned to HQ 12 Group on November 19 and then reported to RAF Leconfield on temporary duty. Brzezina went back to HQ 9 Group on January 12 1941. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (1.2.41.) He took command of 317 Squadron at Colerne in June 1941. On July 10 he destroyed a Bf 109. In August 1941 he was appointed Wing Leader of No 2 Polish Wing at Exeter, made up of 302, 316 and 317 Squadrons. Brzezina was awarded the KW (10.9.41). On December 22 he became Deputy Senior Liaison Officer at HQ Fighter Command. He took command of RAF Heston in October 1942, holding the post until March 1943, when he was appointed a lecturer at the Polish Staff College. On September 19 1945 Brzezina was posted to HQ BAFO, for liaison duties, as a Group Captain. He was killed in a flying accident en route from Germany to England on February 13 1946, in a Dakota of 435 Squadron. Brzezina is buried in St Mary Cray Cemetery, Orpington, Kent.

LEOFRIC TREVOR BRYANT-FENN 40985 FO Pilot British 79 Squadron Born on April 9 1917, Bryant-Fenn was at Cranleigh School from 1930 to 1934. He became a student apprentice at the General Aircraft Company at Feltham in 1936 and remained there until June 1938, when he joined the RAF on a short service commission. He began his ab initio training on June 27 1938, as a pupil pilot. In early September he went to 11 FTS, Shawbury. With his flying training completed, Bryant-Fenn was posted to 9 Air Observer School, Penrhos on September 27 1939, as a staff pilot. The unit was redesignated 9 B&GS on December 1 1939. Bryant-Fenn joined 79 Squadron at Biggin Hill from there on June 29 1940. On August 28 1940 he shared in the destruction of a He 59 floatplane, on the 30th he damaged a Bf 109 and on the 31st he probably destroyed another. In combat over Biggin Hill on September 1, his aircraft was severely damaged by Bf 109s. Bryant-Fenn baled out, wounded in one leg, landed at Dunton Green and was admitted to Sevenoaks Hospital. He did not return to the squadron until 1941. In late 1942 he was a Flight Commander with 264 Squadron at Colerne. When his operational tour finished, he was awarded the DFC (3.9.43). In 1944 Bryant-Fenn was on staff duties at the Air Ministry and was sent on a course at RAF Staff College in 1945. He was then posted overseas and served in Burma, Siam and India until 1948, when he returned to the UK. He joined the Forecasting and Planning Staff at Air Ministry and was later Air Attaché in Prague and Rome. Bryant-Fenn retired from the RAF on October 19 1968 as a Group Captain. He died on February 28 1988. APO 20.8.38 GC 1.1.61

PO 27.6.39

JOHN BRYSON 41823 PO Pilot

FO 3.9.40

Canadian

FL 3.9.41

SL 1.1.44

SL 1.8.47

PO 20.2.40

MICHAL BRZEZOWSKI P 5122 Sgt Pilot Polish

303 Squadron

Brzezowski was born in Dawidgrodek, Poland on February 26 1920. He entered the Polish Air Force NCOs’ Training School at Bydgoszcz in 1936. He qualified as a fighter pilot at Krosno in 1939. Brzezowski was posted to the 5th Air Force Regiment at Lida and joined 151 Fighter Eskadra. After the fighting in early September his unit went to Romania on the 18th. Brzezowski made his way to France, where he joined l’Armée de l’Air. In June 1940 he was serving with Groupe de Chasse II/ 6. On the 15th he shared in the destruction of a Hs 126. When France collapsed, Brzezowski headed for England, reaching there on July 7 1940. He joined 303 Squadron at Northolt from the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool on August 21 1940. Brzezowski claimed the destruction of two He 111s on September 11. Four days later he failed to return from a combat with Bf 109s over the Thames, off Gravesend. His Hurricane, P 3577, is presumed to have crashed into the Estuary. Brzezowski is remembered on the Polish War Memorial at Northolt. He was awarded the KW (23.12.40).

WC 1.8.55

92 Squadron

Bryson, of Westmount, Quebec and formerly of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, joined the RAF in January 1939, on a short service commission.

JACK BUCHANAN 79735 PO Pilot British

He began his ab initio training on January 23 and moved on to 13 FTS, Drem on April 15, on No 1 Course. After completing his training on October 21, he joined the recentlyreformed 92 Squadron at Tangmere on the 22nd. Bryson was posted to 604 Squadron at Northolt in March 1940 but rejoined 92, then at Croydon, on April 1. On May 23 Bryson destroyed a Bf 109 in the Boulogne/Dunkirk area and over Dunkirk on June 2 he destroyed a He 111 and probably another. Bryson was reprimanded by the AOC on July 18, for low flying. On July 24 he shared in shooting down a Ju 88 that was bombing shipping in the Bristol Channel. It crashed on Martinhoe Common, Devon. Bryson was shot down and killed on September 24 1940. His Spitfire, X 4037, crashed and burned out near North Weald. He was 27 and is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, North Weald Bassett, Essex.

29 Squadron

Buchanan, of Sandsend, joined the RAFVR in May 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741542). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training, was commissioned on June 2 1940, and went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 10th. After converting to Blenheims, he joined 29 Squadron at Digby on June 23. Buchanan was on a patrol on September 28, when his starboard wing was hit by British anti-aircraft fire but he returned safely to Digby. Still with 29 Squadron, Buchanan was killed on February 15 1941. He was 23 and is buried in Easington Cemetery, Yorkshire. PO 2.6.40

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JAMES RICHEBOURG BUCHANAN 77033 PO Pilot British 609 Squadron

GEORGE OLIVER BUDD 90209 FL Pilot British 604 Squadron

Buchanan, of Iden, Sussex, joined the RAFVR in December 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741117). He was fully trained when called up on September 1 1939. He was commissioned in December and he joined 609 Squadron at Drem on the 30th.

Born at Reigate in 1911, Budd joined 604 Squadron, AAF at Hendon and was commissioned for five years on June 15 1935. He was called for full-time service on August 24 1939 and remained with the squadron. On May 22 1940 Budd damaged a He 111 over Dunkirk and on June 16 he damaged two more. On the night of April 10/11 1941 he destroyed a He 111 and damaged another, on May 2/3 he destroyed a Ju 88, on June 11/12 he damaged a He 111 and on the 13/14th he destroyed another. He was awarded the DFC (4.7.41), the citation crediting him with three enemy aircraft destroyed at night and four more damaged. On July 11 1941 Budd was posted to 54 OTU, Church Fenton, as OC ‘D’ Squadron. He was posted away on January 26 1942, to command 1455 Turbinlite Flight at Tangmere, which he did until August 1942. Thereafter, until the end of the war, he had a series of staff jobs, including Senior Air Liaison Officer with Anti-Aircraft Command from September 1943 until 1944. He was OC 141 Wing in 1944, at HQ 46 Group 1944 to 1945 and at HQ 111 Wing in 1945. Budd was released from the RAF on September 8 1945 as a Wing Commander.

Flying from Drem on February 27 1940, Buchanan shared in the destruction of a He 111, attacking a convoy near St Abb’s Head. On May 31 he destroyed a He 111 and damaged a Bf 109. On July 27 1940 Buchanan was reported ‘Missing’, after being shot down by Oberleutnant Framm of 1/JG 27, in combat over a convoy off Weymouth. Buchanan’s Spitfire, N 3023, crashed into the sea. He was 25. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 7. PO 10.12.39

PO (AAF) 15.6.35 FO (AAF) 11.4.37 FO 24.8.39

MAURICE SIMON HENRI CHARLES BUCHIN 81626 PO Pilot Belgian 213 Squadron

JAN BUDZINSKI 780665 Sgt Pilot

An instructor in the Belgian Air Force, Buchin escaped to France in May 1940 and was employed by l’Armée de l’Air there, ferrying aircraft.

145 and 605 Squadrons

Budzinski was born in Poland in 1916. He served in the Polish Air Force and was with 141 Eskadra in September 1939. He reached England in January 1940 and was sent to RAF Eastchurch, where he was enlisted in the RAFVR.

In mid-June he sailed from Bayonne in a cargo ship bound for Britain, which arrived on the 23rd. He was commissioned in the RAFVR and went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 12 1940. After Buchin converted to Hurricanes, he joined 213 Squadron at Exeter on the 22nd, making his first flight next day. Buchin shot down a Ju 88 on August 11 and four days later he was reported ‘Missing’. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 7 and has a memorial grave at the Pelouse d’Honneur Cemetery of Brussels at Evre. Buchin was 34.

JAMES ALAN BUCK 742235 Sgt Pilot British

Polish

He was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool from June 1 1940. He was on the 3rd Polish Pilots’ Course at No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum from July 22 to 29, for testing and grading. Budzinski was then sent to 7 OTU, Hawarden and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 145 Squadron at Westhampnett on August 12 and went to 605 Squadron at Drem on the 31st. The squadron went south to Croydon on September 7 and on the 11th Budzinski claimed a Bf 109 destroyed, on the 27th a Bf 110 and on October 7 he shared another Bf 109. He was non-effective sick, with meningitis, from December 31 1940. He was awarded the KW (1.2.41) and on April 27 1941 he was posted to 302 Squadron at Kenley. Budzinski received a Bar to the KW (15.7.41). On August 8 he was posted to No 2 Air Observers’ School, as a staff pilot. One month later he went to 2 AGS at Dalcross. Budzinski was posted to 2 FIS, Montrose on July 28 1942 and at the end of the course he went as an instructor to 16 (Polish) FTS, Newton. He remained there until November 20 1945, when he went to 3 PHU for release, as a Warrant Officer.

43 Squadron

Buck, from Chorltonville, Manchester, joined the RAFVR in October 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and then joined 43 Squadron at Acklington on February 5 1940. On patrol over France on June 7, he landed at Rouen-Boos with a burst tyre but he returned to Tangmere the next day. On July 7 he shared a Do 17. On the 19th Buck was shot down in combat with Bf 109s of III/JG 27 off Selsey. He baled out, wounded, but drowned. His Hurricane, P 3531, crashed into the sea. Buck was 24. He is buried in Stretford Cemetery, Lancashire. His brother, Flight Lieutenant H A Buck, a pilot, died in unknown circumstances on April 27 1945, aged 31. He is buried in Stretford Cemetery.

CECIL HALFORD BULL 37594 FO Pilot British

25 Squadron

Bull was born in India, the son of a Commissioner in the Indian Civil Service. The family returned to the UK in 1926. Bull joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his training on January 6 1936, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham in March. After completing his training, he was posted to No 1 Anti-Aircraft Co-operation Unit at Biggin Hill on April 26 1937, as a staff pilot. He went on a course to the School of Air Navigation, Manston on November 14 1938. He commanded RAF Flimstone training camp in Pembrokeshire. At some time Bull joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge. He was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on April 13 1939 and appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander. He took part in the attack on the Luftwaffe seaplane base at Borkum on November 28 1939. Twelve Blenheims took off from Bircham Newton, six from 25 Squadron and six from 601 Squadron. All aircraft returned safely, landing at Debden. Three He 115s were destroyed and another three damaged. It was the first fighter attack of the war on a German target. Bull received a Mention in Despatches. In early July 1940 Bull was still with 25 Squadron, then at North Weald. He was killed in a shooting incident near Orielton, Pembrokeshire, close to his wife’s family home, on August 8 1940, whilst on leave. A verdict of accidental death was recorded at the inquest. Bull was 24 years old. He is buried in St David’s churchyard, Hindleton, Pembrokeshire.

JOHN STANLEY BUCKNOLE 745402 Sgt Pilot British 54 Squadron Bucknole joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1 and did his elementary flying at 16 EFTS, Shoreham. He went on to 5 FTS, Sealand on June 16 1940, on No 49 Course. With training completed on September 7, Bucknole went to 7 OTU, Hawarden and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on the 29th. He was posted away in October, making his last flight with the squadron on the 13th. In 1941 he was serving with 103 Squadron, flying in Wellingtons from Elsham Wolds. He failed to return from an operation to Brest on July 24 1941 and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 40.

APO 2.3.36 PO 6.1.37 FO 6.9.38

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JOHN CECIL BULL 79227 PO Air Gunner

British

DOUGLAS CAMPBELL BUNCH 115674 Sgt Air Gunner British

600 Squadron

Bull was born on April 5 1905. He joined the RAF in May 1940 and was commissioned as a direct-entry Air Gunner. After a short gunnery course, he was posted to 600 Squadron at Manston in June and served with the squadron in the Battle of Britain. He was still with 600 in November 1940.

219 Squadron

Born on February 1 1920, Bunch joined 615 Squadron, AAF in March 1938, as an Aircrafthand (819020). He was called up on August 24 1939. He remustered as an Air Gunner and with training completed he went to 219 Squadron at Catterick on August 2 1940.

Bull stayed on in the RAF and transferred to the Secretarial Branch in 1946. He retired on November 19 1962 as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. He went to live in Jamaica and died there in 1965.

Bunch retrained as a Radar Operator in late 1940 and flew his first sortie in a Beaufighter on January 7 1941. He was still with 219 Squadron when he was commissioned in January 1942. Late in the year he teamed up with Flight Lieutenant J E Willson and they had their first victory, a Do 217, on February 3 1943. They destroyed two Do 217s and probably another on March 11 and a Do 217 and an unidentified enemy aircraft on March 15. Bunch and Willson went with a squadron detachment to Malta in May 1943. During the night of June 29/30 they shot down a He 111 into the sea off Sicily and on July 3/4 they destroyed a Ju 88 in the same area. Soon afterwards Bunch returned to the UK and was awarded the DFC (13.7.43). In 1944 Bunch was posted to 157 Squadron at Swannington. In September he teamed up with Flight Lieutenant R D Doleman. During the night of the 12/13th they destroyed a Bf 110 on a high-level support patrol over the Frankfurt area. On October 19/20 they shot down a Ju 88 and damaged another, on November 6/7 they destroyed two Bf 110s and a Ju 88 and in three nights from December 22 to 24 they claimed three Bf 110s and a Ju 88 destroyed and another Ju 88 probably destroyed. Their final victory came during the night of March 14/15 1945, with another Ju 88 destroyed. Bunch was awarded a Bar to the DFC (9.3.45) and the DSO (21.9.45). He stayed on in the RAF and retired on May 1 1968 as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. He died in 1972.

APO 18.5.40 PO 15.6.40 FO 15.6.41 FL 15.9.42 FL 18.5.46

GEOFFREY GORDON ROBSON BULMER Sub-Lieutenant (FAA) Pilot British 32 Squadron Born on January 5 1920, Bulmer entered the Air Branch of the Royal Navy for seven years on July 1 1939, as a Midshipman (A). He served with HMS President at Greenwich and later with HMS Frobisher and HMS St Vincent. On October 9 1939 he was posted to HMS Pembroke and he did his elementary flying training at 24 E&RFTS, Sydenham Belfast. Bulmer went on to 7 FTS, Peterborough on December 11 1939, gained his wings there on March 14 1940 and on May 26 he was posted to Eastleigh for fighter and deck-landing courses with 759 and 760 Squadrons. He was one of the naval pilots attached to the RAF on June 15 1940. After converting to Hurricanes at 7 OTU, Hawarden, Bulmer joined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hilll on July 1. On the 10th he shared in destroying a Do 17. He was shot down by Oberleutnant Priller in combat off Dover on July 20 1940. He baled out into the sea but was drowned. His Hurricane, N 2670, may have crashed at Lydden. Bulmer is remembered on the Fleet Air Arm Memorial at Lee-on-Solent, Bay 1, Panel 3.

PO 5.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 5.1.44 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.1.51

SAMUEL HOSKIN BUNCH Sub-Lieutenant (FAA) Pilot British

804 Squadron

Midshipman (A) 1.7.39 Acting Sub-Lt 14.3.40 Bunch, of Roehampton, Surrey, entered the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on May 1 1939, rated as Midshipman (A). He did his elementary flying training at 14 EFTS, Elmdon, then went on to No 1 FTS, Leuchars on November 6 1939, on No 6 Course, which ended on April 21 1940.

RONALD FREDERICK BUMSTEAD 53138 Sgt Pilot British 17 and 111 Squadrons He was born at Goudhurst, Kent on August 7 1915. Bumstead joined the RAF, as an Airman u/t Rigger (Airframes), in September 1935 (523725).

Bunch joined 804 Squadron at Hatston on June 20 1940, flying Sea Gladiators on dockyard defence. He was still with 804 in November 1940. He was killed in a night-flying collision with a Swordfish on June 11 1941, serving at the RNAS station, Arbroath. He was 22. Bunch is buried in Arbroath Western Cemetery, Fife, Scotland.

He was posted to 74 Squadron at Hornchurch in September 1936, as an AC1 Rigger. In February 1937 he went to 64 Squadron at Martlesham Heath for flying and ground duties, as a Rigger/Air Gunner. He applied for pilot training and was selected in May 1938. On August 10 1939 he was sent to 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick, as an LAC, and then moved on to 3 FTS, South Cerney on October 23, on No 30 Course, which ended on April 27 1940. Bumstead went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 3, converted to Blenheims and then joined 29 Squadron at Debden on June 8. He was posted to 6 OTU on July 16 for conversion to Hurricanes, after which he joined 17 Squadron at Debden on the 18th. Bumstead moved to 111 Squadron, also at Debden, on August 26 1940. He was detached to RAF Kenley, possibly to the Kenley Sector Training Flight, until September 14, when he rejoined the squadron, which had moved north to Drem. Bumstead was posted from 111, then at Dyce, on December 21 1940 to 605 Squadron at Croydon. On the 28th he was posted to 57 OTU, Hawarden, as an instructor. He went to 60 (Night Fighter) OTU at Leconfield on June 13 1941 and joined the recently-formed 409 (RCAF) Squadron at Coleby Grange on July 18. In mid-September 1941 he was posted to 1451 Turbinlite Flight at Hunsdon and on December 9 Bumstead went to 287 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Croydon. He was commissioned from Warrant Officer in October 1943 and on December 15 he joined 525 Squadron, newly-formed with Warwicks. Bumstead’s last posting was on September 5 1944, to 147 Squadron, then being reformed at Croydon, for transport duties with Dakotas. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.46), released in June 1946 and he joined Sabena Airlines in December. In May 1953 he became an Inspector of Air Accidents and in June 1955 he joined the Goodyear Tyre Company, in the Aviation Division. Bumstead died on October 1 1977.

Midshipman 1.5.39 Acting Sub-Lt 14.3.40 Sub-Lt 28.6.40

ROBERT WILTON BUNGEY 40042 FL Pilot Australian 79 and 145 Squadrons Bungey was born at Fullarton, South Australia on October 4 1914. He was educated at Glenelg Primary School and Adelaide High School and after leaving, he was employed as an insurance clerk. He joined the RAAF and trained at Point Cook from July 1936. With flying training completed, he sailed for England on July 22 1937 and after arrival, he transferred to the RAF in August with a short service commission. Bungey joined 226 Squadron at Harwell on November 27 1937. The squadron took its Battles to France on September 2 1939, as part of the AASF. It was in action throughout the Battle of France and was withdrawn to England on June 16 1940 from Brest. Bungey had been serving as ‘A’ Flight Commander but he relinquished this on July 9 1940. In August he responded to a call for volunteers for Fighter Command and he joined 79 Squadron at Acklington from 226 on August 19 and moved to 145 Squadron at Dyce on September 19 1940. Bungey was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on the 24th. He was shot down on November 7 and baled out into the sea near the Isle of Wight, with an injured knee. He damaged a Ju 88 on the 9th and shared in the probable destruction of a He 111 on December 11 1940. He shared a Ju 88 over the Channel on March 10 1941. With his knee still giving trouble, Bungey was posted from the squadron

PO 24.10.43 FO 24.1.44 FL 24.7.45

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rank of Private and dismissed from the Czechoslovak Air Force. He was then only permitted to do menial work until his retirement. Burda died on February 23 1988 in Brno, Czechoslovakia.

on March 30 1941, to go into hospital for an operation. He took command of the recently-formed 452 (RAAF) Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on June 10 1941. Bungey was awarded the DFC (7.10.41) and he destroyed a Bf 109 on December 6. He was posted away from the squadron on January 25 1942. During 1942 Bungey had some staff postings. He transferred back into the RAAF in January 1943 and he and his English wife, Sybil, went to Australia. She died suddenly, after giving birth to a baby son. Bungey was distraught and took his own life on June 10 1943. He and his wife are buried at St Jude’s Church, Brighton, South Australia. He was 28. A Spitfire flown by Bungey is in The Australian War Memorial in Canberra.

PO 2.8.40

ALAN GEORGE BURDEKIN 143405 Sgt Air Gunner British

Born on June 26 1917, Burdekin joined the RAFVR at Derby on March 29 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (746828). He was called up on September 1 and was posted to 266 Squadron at Sutton Bridge on October 31. The squadron was then equipped with Fairey Battles.

PO 26.8.37 FO 26.5.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.2.41

FRANTISEK BURDA 82540 PO Pilot Czechoslovakian

600 Squadron

Burdekin was posted to 9 Air Observers’ School, Penrhos on November 28. After qualifying as an LAC Air Gunner, he rejoined 266 on January 9 1940. He moved to 264 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on February 1 and he spent eight weeks in an Experimental Flight in April and May. He was promoted to Sergeant on June 6 and then posted from 264 on the 13th to 5 OTU, Aston Down, to convert to Blenheims. On July 7 1940 Burdekin joined 600 Squadron at Manston. He was posted to 10 Signals School at Blackpool on September 21, for a wireless course. He completed this at 2 Electrical and Wireless School at Yatesbury, from January 4 to March 31 1941, qualifying as a wireless operator. He then rejoined 600 Squadron and remained with it until July 16, when he joined 125 Squadron at Colerne. On October 13 1941 Burdekin went to 278 (ASR) Squadron. He was commissioned in January 1943 and remained with the squadron until March 18 1944. He then went to 577 (AA Co-op) Squadron. Burdekin was released from the RAF on December 29 1945, as a Flying Officer. He emigrated with his family to New Zealand in October 1947. Burdekin was in the RNZAF Active Reserve from 1953 to 1958 and then served in the 1st Battalion, Nelson, Marlborough, West Coast Regiment, as a captain, from April 1958 to October 1962. Burdekin died in June 2008.

310 Squadron

Burda was born on January 21 1915 in Osicky. On October 1 1935 he joined the Military Aviation Academy at Prostejov for military service where he did his basic training and was trained to be an aerial-observer. In June 1936 he was assigned to the 1st Air Regiment at Prague-Kbely. He decided that he wanted to remain in the Czechoslovak Air Force following his military service and. On October 1 1936, he was posted for further training to the Military Academy at Hranic. In October 1937, with the rank of Pilot Officer, he returned to the Military Aviation Academy at Prostejov for pilot training. In June 1938 he was posted to the 40th Squadron of the 4th Air Regiment. When the Germans occupied Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939 his unit was based at Dolni Mecholupy but it was quickly disbanded and Burda was demobilised. In June he travelled to Ostrave and, with the assistance of the underground movement, he was smuggled on to a freight train which took him to Poland. He reported for duty to the Czechoslovak Consulate, in Krakow and was then sent to a transit camp at nearby Maly Bronowice. In late July, along with other Czech airmen, he travelled to Gdynia, Poland, and boarded the Kastelholm which took him to France, arriving on August 24 1939. In France he was required to enlist in the French Foreign Legion for five years, with the assurance that should war be declared he would be transferred to a French military unit. On October 9 1939 he joined l’Armée de l’Air and was assigned to the Chartres airbase for retraining on French equipment. On May 27 1940 he was posted to GCI/4, equipped with Curtiss H-75s. During the Battle of France he made his first sortie on June 3 and achieved success on the 5th, when he shared in the destruction of a Bf 109. He had to make a forced landing following this success due to shortage of fuel. With the rapid advance of the German forces, CGI/4 were constantly retreating south through France and eventually was forced to fly to Oran, Algeria. The Czech airmen on the unit were released from l’Armee de l’Air service and they travelled to Casablanca where they boarded a ship bound for Gibraltar. Here they changed ships and sailed to England, arriving in Liverpool on July 16. On July 24 Burda was accepted into the RAFVR with the rank of Pilot Officer. In late September he was posted to 6 OTU, at Sutton Bridge, for retraining on Hurricanes. He was posted to 310 Squadron, at Duxford, on October 15 and flew five sorties during the closing days of the Battle of Britain. He completed his first operational tour on August 20 1941 and, during the required break from operational flying, he was detached to an air-gunnery instructors’ course at 8 OTU at Sutton Bridge and a VHF Blind Approach Course at West Malling. He returned to 310 Squadron on October 9 1942 and was appointed Commander ‘B’ Flight in the next month. On February 27 1943, whilst escorting US Liberator bombers on an air raid on Brest, Burda was shot down in his Spitfire Vb, RP 287, by flak, near the island of Vierge. He baled out and landed safely but was captured and spent the remainder of the war as a Prisoner of War (PoW 245). He was held in a number of different prison camps, Schubin, Stalag Luft II and Barth before finishing up at Colditz from where he was liberated by the Americans on April 16 1945. Burda returned to Britain on April 20 1945 and was at the Czechoslovak Depot, Cosford for convalescence and rest until June 29 when he returned to 310 Squadron at Manston. He returned to Czechoslovakia, with 310 Squadron, on August 24 1945. The Squadron became the 310st Squadron of the 10th Air Regiment of the Czechoslovak Air Force and Burda was appointed as its Commander. On July 1 1946 he was appointed Staff Captain at the Operational Department of the Czechoslovak Air Force HQ in Prague. Following the communist takeover in February 1948 Burda was transferred to the 7th Air Regiment, as Commander and, on October 24 1948, he was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel. However, within a year, because of his service with the RAF, he was demoted to the

PO 3.2.43 FO 3.8.43

JOHN HENRY BATEMAN BURGESS 67601 Sgt Pilot British 222 Squadron Burgess, born in 1920, was at Leyton County High School for Boys and worked for an insurance company before the war. He joined the RAFVR on July 23 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741839), and did his ab initio training at 21 E&RFTS, Stapleford. Called up on September 1 1939 he went to No 1 ITW, Cambridge on November 15. He was posted to 11 FTS, Shawbury on February 1 1940. He went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 6, converted to Spitfires and then joined 222 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on July 29. Burgess claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on September 7, shared a Bf 109 on October 15, probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 17th and shared another on the 29th. In the latter engagement his Spitfire, P 9318, received damage to the glycol system and he made a forced-landing on a dummy aerodrome at Lenham. The Bf 109 crashed on Sheerlands Farm, Pluckley. Burgess damaged a Ju 88 on April 27 1941. Commissioned in May, he probably destroyed a Bf 109 on August 21 and damaged a Bf 109 on September 17. He was posted to 129 Squadron at Westhampnett on October 18, as a Flight Commander. On December 27 he went to 53 OTU, Llandow, as an instructor. In midFebruary 1942 Burgess was sent on a course at CFS, Upavon, returning in mid-March to Llandow. Burgess joined 66 Squadron at Ibsley on August 6 1942 but three weeks later he sailed in the MV Leinster to Gibraltar, where he was put in charge of a defence flight of six Spitfires and six Hurricanes. He was posted to Luqa, Malta on October 26 1942, as a Flight Commander with 1435 Squadron. On November 5 he damaged a Bf 109. On a sweep across Sicily on the 25th, to attack Comiso aerodrome, Burgess was attacked by FW 190s. His Spitfire caught fire and he crashed into the sea, just offshore from the beach at Gela and he was captured. After being entertained by the pilots of JG 2 at Santa Pietra, Burgess was handed over to the Italians and imprisoned at Chieti. He was later in Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 2588). After repatriation to Britain in May 1945, Burgess was released from the RAF on November 23 1945. He returned to insurance but moved to a successful career in banking. He retired in 1980. Burgess died on August 10 1988. PO 27.5.41 FO 16.1.42 FL 16.1.43

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ERIC BURGOYNE 42796 PO Pilot British

Called up on October 16, he went to CFS, on No 61 instructor’s course, after which he went to 7 FTS, Peterborough, to instruct. Burnell-Phillips joined 607 Squadron at Croydon, soon after its return from France on May 22 1940. He made his first flight with the squadron on May 28. He claimed two He 111s destroyed on August 15 and he shot down a Do 17 on September 9. In the latter engagement, his engine seized and he made a forced-landing near Knockholt, in Hurricane P 2912. Burnell-Phillips was slightly wounded by a bullet in the ankle. On September 26 he forced a Do 17 to crash into the sea by making mock attacks, his ammunition having been exhausted. He also claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on September 30 and shared a He 111 on October 4. Burnell-Phillips was awarded the DFM (1.11.40), credited with at least five victories. He was commissioned in November and was killed in a flying accident on February 9 1941 at Haddington, East Lothian, aged 24. He is buried in Dirleton Cemetery, Peebleshire. Burnell-Phillips’ portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in February 1941.

19 Squadron

Burgoyne joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his flying training on May 18 1939, as a pupil pilot. Training completed, he joined 19 Squadron at Duxford in mid-May 1940. S of Chichester on August 31, Burgoyne shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 and on September 5 he probably destroyed a Do 17. He was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 109s over Canterbury on September 27 1940. His Spitfire, X 4352, crashed at Coldred, Kent. Burgoyne was 25. He is buried in St Mary’s churchyard, Burghfield, Berkshire.

APO 18.5.36 PO 9.3.37 PO 14.11.40

NORMAN WHITMORE BURNETT 70101 FO Pilot British 266 and 46 Squadrons

APO 23.10.39 PO 18.5.40

PETER SLATER BURLEY 551809 Sgt Radar Operator

British

Burnett was commissioned in the RAFO, in Class AA (section ii), in August 1934. He transferred to the RAFVR in January 1938. Called up on September 7 1939, he joined 266 Squadron at Sutton Bridge from 5 FTS, Sealand on December 16 1939.

600 Squadron

Burley joined the RAF as a Boy Entrant in 1937. He must have volunteered for flying duties and then susequently done a radar course, probably at RAF Yatesbury.

On August 1 1940 Burnett was posted to 46 Squadron at Digby. On that day he was made ‘B’ Flight Commander, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. He crashed at Hollingbourne on September 8, following a combat over Sheppey. He was admitted to hospital, wounded. His Hurricane, V 6631, was a write-off. He did not resume operational flying until November 1 1940, although he continued to command ‘B’ Flight on the ground. On November 7 Burnett damaged a Bf 110, on the 11th he probably destroyed a CR 42 and on the 13th he destroyed a Bf 109. On May 20 1941, 46 Squadron sailed for the Middle East in the aircraft carrier HMS Argus. At Gibraltar pilots and aircraft were transferred to the carriers HMS Ark Royal and Furious. On June 6 they flew off to Hal Far, Malta. Five days later Burnett was flying one of seven Hurricanes that were scrambled to meet a heavily-escorted Italian reconnaissance aircraft. In the ensuing combat, Burnett was shot down. A search to within sight of the coast of Sicily failed to find any trace of him. Burnett is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 1, Column 1. Burnett’s younger brother, Pilot Officer W H Burnett, a pilot, failed to return from an operation to Nuremburg on March 31 1944. He was serving with 166 Squadron, operating in Lancasters from Kirmington in Lincolnshire. He is buried in Rheinberg War Cemetery.

He was with 600 Squadron at Manston by June 28 1940, as an Aircraftsman. Burley flew seven operational sorties during the Battle of Britain. He was promoted to Sergeant in early October. He was still with 600 Squadron in November 1940. No other service details traced.

FRED PERCY BURNARD 45461 F/Sgt Pilot British

616 and 74 Squadrons

Burnard was born on March 9 1915 in Scarborough. He went to the Friarhoe Senior Boys’ School in the town. He joined the RAF in January 1930 as an Aircraft Apprentice (564553). He passed out in December 1932, as a Metal Rigger. He served in Iraq and Egypt. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. With training completed, he passed out as a Sergeant-Pilot. He was with 616 Squadron at Leconfield in June 1940. On July 3 he shared in destroying a Do 17 and on September 1 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another. Burnard joined 74 Squadron on October 27 1940. Surprised by Bf 109s over Dover on November 1, he returned to base damaged, in Spitfire P 7501. He was posted to 85 Squadron on November 15. Commissioned in March 1941, Burnard went to 54 OTU, Church Fenton from 85 Squadron on November 24 1941, as an instructor. Burnard served in India and was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Squadron Leader. He trained as a teacher and worked in the East Riding of Yorkshire, becoming deputy head teacher at Hilderthorpe Junior School. He died on April 27 2007 in Newtonmore in the Scottish Highlands, having lived at Laggan in retirement. He was buried in Laggan churchyard.

PO (RAFO) 13.8.34 FO (RAFO) 13.2.36 FO (RAFVR) 1.1.38 FO 7.9.39 FL 16.12.40

OWEN VALENTINE BURNS 146278 Sgt Wop/AG British

235 Squadron

Burns was born in Birkenhead on November 20 1915 and was educated at St Francis Xavier’s College, Liverpool. He joined the RAFVR at 3 RAF Depot, Padgate on October 3 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (969385). With his training completed, Burns joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton in June 1940.

PO 5.3.41 FO 5.3.42 FL 5.3.43

PETER ANTHONY BURNELL-PHILLIPS 88212 Sgt Pilot British 607 Squadron

The squadron mainly carried out aerodrome protection duties and escorted aircraft that were attacking the French ports and German shipping. On an offensive sweep on November 18 he shot down a Do 18 flying boat. Returning from a dusk patrol over the North Sea on February 14 1941, Burns’ Blenheim hit a tree as it was about to land at Langham, when the flarepath lights were put out because of enemy aircraft in the vicinity. The observer was killed, the pilot was seriously injured and Burns escaped with a broken collarbone. After a spell of Aerodrome Control duties, Burns joined 279 (ASR) Squadron in December 1941, flying Hudsons carrying the 24 feet long airborne lifeboat. Commissioned in February 1943, Burns was posted to 5(C) OTU in December, for instructor duties. In 1944 he did specialised gunnery courses and in December went to 16 Group in Edinburgh, where he was one of a small team, re-writing gunnery instructions for all aircrew. Burns was appointed Gunnery Officer at 19 Group, Plymouth in January 1945 and in February he became PA to the AOC, AVM C B S Spackman.

Born in Richmond, Surrey, Burnell-Phillips was educated at St George’s School, Weybridge. He joined the RAF on a short service commission (37848). He began his ab initio training on March 9 1936, as a pupil pilot at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty. On June 5 he moved to 11 FTS, Wittering. Training completed, Burnell-Phillips was posted to 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on January 10 1937, later moving to 65 Squadron, also at Hornchurch. Burnell-Phillips was obliged to resign his commission on February 1 1939 for infringement of flying discipline, when, for a bet, he flew at rooftop height along the main thoroughfare of Crowborough, Sussex. He joined the RAFVR on April 20 1939 (745892) and he began a flying instructors’ course on the 25th. In June 1939 he was posted to 32 E&RFTS, West Hartlepool.

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With training completed, Burtenshaw went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 7 and after converting to Spitftres, he joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on the 29th. He was shot down and killed on March 12 1941, still with 54 Squadron, aged 21. Burtenshaw is buried in Snodland Cemetery, Kent.

When a new AOC arrived in November 1947, Burns was posted to RAF West Kirby as OC SHQ Unit. He left the RAF in March 1948. PO 19.2.43 FO 19.8.43 FL 19.2.45 FL 19.8.46

WILLIAM RICHARD BURNS NZ 40202 Sgt Air Gunner New Zealander

CYRIL GEORGE BURTON 45730 F/Sgt Pilot British 23 Squadron 236 Sqdn Burton went to Paston School, Norfolk. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice (565499), in September 1931 and passed out on August 16 1934 as a Metal Rigger. He later successfully applied for pilot training.

Born in Devonport, England on June 10 1912, Burns went to New Zealand in 1929 and worked on sheep and dairy farms. He joined the RNZAF in January 1940 and after training at Weraroa and Ohakea, he sailed in the SS Akaroa on March 23, arriving at Tilbury on May 9.

He was with 23 Squadron at Collyweston as a Flight Sergeant pilot in June 1940 and served with it throughout the Battle of Britain and was still with the squadron in November 1940. Commissioned in May 1941, he was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant.

After gunnery instruction at 5 OTU, Aston Down, he was posted to 236 Squadron at Thorney Island on July 6 1940. He moved to 282 Squadron on November 14 and then went to 221 Squadron in mid-December. Burns came off operations on March 26 1941, to operate and maintain the searchlight on the first Wellington to be equipped with the Leigh Light for anti-submarine work. On July 10 1941 Burns went to the Coastal Command Development Unit, to instruct on the Light. In late January 1942 he joined a searchlight development unit, 1417 Flight, which became 172 Squadron on March 8 and by June was fully operational. Burns was posted to 210 Squadron on January 15 1943, later moving to 59 Squadron and 279 Squadron. Commissioned in December 1943, Burns was with 279 until November 1944, when he went to 5 (Coastal) OTU at Turnberry. He was repatriated to New Zealand in September 1946 and released in December, as a Flight Lieutenant. Burns died on May 23 1949.

PO 8.5.41 FO 8.5.42 FL 8.5.43

DOUGLAS LAWRENCE BURTON NZ 40187 Sgt Observer New Zealander

248 Sqdrn

Born in Opunake on December 14 1916, Burton was working as a salesman in Sydney at the outbreak of war. He returned to New Zealand and joined the RNZAF as a trainee Observer on January 15 1940. With ground training at Weraroa and flying at the Air Observers’ School at Ohakea completed, Burton sailed for the UK in the RMS Rangitata on June 7 1940. On July 30 he was posted to 17 OTU, Upwood and he joined 106 Squadron at Finningley on October 2. He was then posted to Sumburgh in the Shetlands, where he joined 248 Squadron on October 19 1940. On October 20 Burton was a member of a Blenheim crew, captained by Pilot Officer G M Baird, on a flight off the south-west coast of Norway. After engaging and shooting down a Do 215, they were themselves shot down by Bf 109s. Baird and Burton were captured. Burton was wounded and he was sent to hospital in Stavanger. He was later a prisoner in Stalag Luft 1 and Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 423), where he worked in the Red Cross Store. He was promoted to Warrant Officer in May 1943. Burton arrived back in New Zealand in January 1946, spent some time in hospital and went on to the reserve in December. He became a partner in a sports-outfitting business in Wanganui. He died there on November 20 1974.

PO 5.12.43 FO 5.6.44 FL 5.12.45

ALFRED DENMARK BURT 49994 Sgt Pilot British 611 and 603 Squadrons Born on July 27 1916, Burt was educated at Brockenhurst County School. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice (566159), at Halton on September 7 1932, to train as a Fitter II (Airframes and Aero Engines). He passed out on July 26 1935 and was posted to 4 (AC) Squadron, as an LAC. Burt applied for pilot training and on January 18 1938 he began flying at 2 E&RFTS, Filton, moving on to 10 FTS, Ternhill on March 27. With training completed, he was posted to No 1 Electrical and Wireless School, Cranwell on October 30 1938, as a staff pilot. At the outbreak of war, Burt joined 46 Squadron at Kenley but on September 16 1939 he moved to 611 Squadron at Digby. On August 21 1940 he shared in shooting down two Do 17s off the Lincolnshire coast and on September 11 he probably destroyed a He 111. Burt was posted to 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on October 4 and he was slightly wounded in action on November 14. On December 17 he was sent to CFS, Upavon for an instructors’ course, after which he went to 15 FTS, Kidlington. Burt was posted overseas on October 22 1941, going to 24 Air School, Nigel, South Africa, as an instructor. He was commissioned from Warrant Officer in August 1942. In September 1944 Burt returned to the UK and joined No 1 ADU, Redhill, as a ferry pilot. On February 28 1945 Burt was posted to 512 Squadron at Broadwell. He was awarded the AFC (14.6.45). A year later he went to 271 Squadron, also at Broadwell, as a pilot and Squadron Training Officer. 271 was disbanded on December 1 1946 and re-numbered 77 Squadron. Burt went to 241 OCU, North Luffenham on January 27 1948 and later took part in the Berlin Air Lift. He was awarded a Bar to the AFC (1.1.55). Burt held a number of staff appointments prior to his retirement on July 27 1958 as a Squadron Leader. He died on March 17 1980.

HOWARD FRIZELLE BURTON 33227 FL Pilot British 66 and 616 Squadrons Burton was born in Letchworth in 1916 and educated at Bedford School. He entered RAF College, Cranwell, as a Flight Cadet, in January 1935. He was awarded the Sword of Honour at his graduation in December 1936 and granted a Permanent Commission. On December 19 he joined 46 Squadron at Digby. On March 2 1939 Burton was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant and perhaps also appointed a Flight Commander. Burton was posted away to HQ 12 Group on June 26 1939, for Ops duties. He joined 66 Squadron at Duxford on September 7, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. On May 12 1940 he shared a He 111, on June 2 he got a probable He 111 over Dunkirk, on the 19th Burton damaged a Ju 88 and on July 29 he shared in the destruction of a He 111. Promoted to Acting Squadron Leader on September 3, he was given command of 616 Squadron at Kenley. Burton had no further victories until June 21 1941, when he shared a Bf 109. On July 21 he shared another and on the 23rd he damaged one. Awarded the DFC (19.9.41), Burton was posted away in September for a rest from operations. In early 1942 Burton was posted to the Middle East and later became Wing Leader of 239 (Kittyhawk) Wing. On January 18 1943 he destroyed a Bf 109 and shot down another on February 26. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (23.2.43) and at the end of his tour he got the DSO (6.4.43). He also held the C de G. At the conclusion of the Tunisian campaign, Burton and other unit commanders were

PO 24.8.42 FO 24.2.43 FL 24.8.44 SL 1.1.51

ALLAN ANTHONY BURTENSHAW 745616 Sgt Pilot British 54 Squadron Burtenshaw was born in Windsor on February 23 1920. The family went to live in Snodland, Kent where he played cricket for a local team. He was awarded a choral scholarship to Eton. He joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1 and after completing his elementary flying training at 23 EFTS, Rochester, he was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on June 16 1940, on No 49 Course.

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On September 7 Bush made a forced-landing at Eastchurch, after a cannon shell went through his cockpit hood and petrol tank during a combat over the Thames Estuary with Bf 109s. On September 12 he destroyed a Bf 110, on the 17th a Bf 109 and on the 30th he damaged a He 111. On this day Bush was shot down, in an action over the South-West coast and crash-landed near Yeovil. Both incidents were in Hurricane P 3021. Commissioned in July 1941, Bush went with ‘A’ Flight of 504 when it was formed into 81 Squadron and posted to Leconfield. The personnel were kitted out for an unknown overseas destination.They flew to Abbotsinch in Harrows and embarked for Russia on the aircraft carrier HMS Argus, which carried crated Hurricanes. On September 1 1941 the squadron flew off in sixes for Vaenga airfield, near Murmansk. The squadron began operations, including bomber escorts, and carried on until midNovember, when 81’s pilots started converting Russian pilots to Hurricanes. They left Russia on November 29, leaving all equipment behind, and returned in HMS Kenya, landing at Rosyth on December 7. After return to the UK, Bush spent a period instructing Army glider pilots. He then converted to Mosquitos and joined 139 Squadron at Upwood. He was later with a Spitfire Flight, training Lancaster crews to cope with attacking fighters. Bush was awarded the DFC (23.3.45), serving with 128 Squadron in 8 (Pathfinder) Group, Bomber Command, in Mosquitos. Bush was released from the RAF in late 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 2002.

flown home to England in May 1943, on leave. On June 3 they took off in a Hudson of 117 Squadron, to return to North Africa. Over the Bay of Biscay the aircraft was intercepted by a Ju 88 and shot down. Burton was among those lost. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 118. PO 19.12.36 FO 19.6.38 FL 19.6.40 SL 1.9.41

LESLIE GILBERT BURTON 78081 PO Observer British

236 Squadron

Burton joined the Aircraft Crew Section of the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (755058). He was called up on September 1 and on completion of his training, he was commissioned in March 1940. He joined 236 Squadron at North Coates on March 11 1940. After a period away from the squadron, probably at No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth, Burton rejoined it on July 19. He was the first observer to fly on operations with the squadron, on July 21 1940. Burton was posted away to 431 Flight at Bircham Newton on October 26 1940. He was killed on December 24 1940, aged 26. He is buried in St Peter’s churchyard, Harborne, Birmingham. PO 10.3.40

PERCIVAL ROSS-FRAMES BURTON 74348 FO Pilot South African 249 Squadron Burton was born in 1917 in Cape Province. He joined the South African Coast Garrison and Citizen Forces in 1935.

PO 12.7 41 FO 12.7.42 FL 12.7.43

He later went to Britain, to Christ Church, Oxford, where he read Jurisprudence. In 1938 he was reserve cox for the Oxford crew in the University Boat Race on the River Thames. Burton learned to fly with the University Air Squadron and was commissioned in the RAFVR on September 26 1939. Called up in October, he completed his training at RAF College FTS, Cranwell. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 22 1940, to convert to Hurricanes, and he joined 249 Squadron at Church Fenton on July 21. On September 2 Burton probably destroyed a Do 17 and on the 26th he damaged another. On the morning of September 27 the squadron engaged a formation of Bf 110s of V/LG 1. The Hurricanes broke the Germans’ defensive circles and the enemy aircraft went south at low level, heading for the Channel. Burton pursued one of the Bf 110s for about forty miles, often at little more than treetop height, but the German pilot, the Gruppe Kommandeur of V/LG 1, Hauptmann Horst Liensberger, was unable to shake him off. Just N of Hailsham, Burton’s guns stopped firing and the two aircraft skimmed over the rooftops. The Hurricane, V 6883, was above and behind the Bf 110. Burton suddenly banked and made what appeared to be an attack. Both machines lurched and an object spun away. The tail unit of the Bf 110 dropped into a field, followed by the rest of the aircraft. The falling object was the wingtip of Burton’s Hurricane. His aircraft crashed into a huge oak tree on New Barn Farm, throwing its dead pilot clear and burning itself out in a field. The German crew were buried in Hailsham Cemetery but were exhumed after the war and buried elsewhere. Burton is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Tangmere. Eye-witness reports indicate strongly that he deliberately rammed the Bf 110. A letter from Fighter Command to the Hailsham ARP Chief said that Burton was to be recommended for a posthumous gallantry award. This could only have been the VC but in fact he only received a Mention in Despatches. In 1980 a road on a housing estate near to the site of the crash site was named ‘Burton Walk’ in his memory. Burton’s elder brother, Flight Lieutenant W W Burton, a pilot, died on August 20 1941. He did not return from an operation to Kiel, in a Wellington of 104 Squadron, based at Driffield. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial.

CHARLES ROY BUSH 42691 PO Pilot New Zealander

Born in Wellington on February 7 1918, Bush was educated at Wellington College and then went to work for an insurance company. Early in 1939 he applied for an RAF short service commission and he was provisionally accepted. He left New Zealand on June 15 1939 and on July 27 he began his ab initio training at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley. Bush went on to 3 ITW at Hastings and moved to 10 FTS, Dumfries on October 9 1939, on No 15 Course. Bush arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on April 20 1940, where he converted to Gladiators and then Spitfires. On May 14 he joined 615 Squadron at Abbeville and flew Gladiators on aerodrome defence until the 21st, when 615’s remaining aircraft were withdrawn to Kenley. On June 6 Bush joined 242 Squadron at Biggin Hill. Two days later he flew back to France with the squadron, to provide cover for the Army, falling back on St Nazaire. After several days patrolling the port, 242 was withdrawn to Coltishall on the 18th. On September 7 Bush damaged a He 111 and a Bf 110, on the 9th he destroyed a Bf 110, on the 18th he got a probable Ju 88 and on the 27th he destroyed a Bf 109. Bush joined 258 Squadron at Drem on December 5 1940. On June 16 1941 he claimed a probable Bf 109. He was posted to 610 Squadron at Tangmere on July 19 but moved on a month later to 41 Squadron at Merston, as a Flight Commander. He destroyed a Bf 109 on August 22, shared a Hs 126 on September 18 and damaged a Bf 109 on the 21st. He was awarded the DFC (30.9.41). Posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on October 22, Bush was there until March 1942, when he was detached for special duties with the RNZAF. He arrived back in New Zealand on July 13 and was posted to the newly-formed 11 (Fighter) OTU at Ohakea. He joined 15 (Kittyhawk) Squadron in late October 1943 and went with it to New Georgia on December 16, as a Flight Commander. Bush returned to New Zealand on February 16 1944 and on May 1 he was given command of 21 Squadron, about to be formed at Ardmore with Corsairs.The squadron pilots flew in a transport to Santos on June 19 and got their Corsairs next day. Tour-expired, Bush returned to Whenuapai on September 20 and after a rest, went to Guadalcanal for a second tour with 21 Squadron, which he finished in February 1945. Bush returned to the UK in July and was attached to No 1 AFDU at Andrews Field, Essex. He took part in the first Battle of Britain flypast over London on September 15 1945. In late March 1946 Bush transferred to the RNZAF and arrived back in New Zealand in early November. He was given command of the Communications Flight at Ohakea. On November 30 1948 Bush was carrying out a photographic reconnaissance of the Gisborne area, in an Oxford. He landed at Napier, took off again for Ohakea but never arrived. The crashed aircraft was finally located in the Ruahine Range. It is believed to have broken up in the air. Bush and his crew of two were all killed.

PO 26.9.39 FO 26.9.40

BASIL MARTIN BUSH 101038 Sgt Pilot British

242 Squadron

504 Squadron

Bush joined the RAFVR in Cambridge in July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (758076). He had carried out some flying training at 22 E&RFTS there, before being called to fulltime service on September 1. He completed his training at 8 FTS, Montrose and after he had converted to Hurricanes at 7 OTU, he joined 504 Squadron at Castletown in early July 1940.

APO 18.9.39 PO 20.4.40 FO 24.4.41 FL 24.4.42

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GORDON DOWNS BUSHELL 745584 Sgt Pilot British 213 Squadron

On July 17 1940 3 Squadron was notified that one flight was to move to Sumburgh, to form 232 Squadron. On the 21st Butterick flew there with ‘B’ Flight of 3 Squadron from their base at Wick to Sumburgh. The eight Hurricanes were redesignated as 232 Squadron. On the 23rd he ditched off the Shetlands, in Hurricane P 3861, after his engine failed. In early October 1940 Butterick was posted to PDC Uxbridge for a move overseas. After embarkation leave, he was one of a group of pilots assembled at Uxbridge on October 19 for service in Malta. When the proposed posting had not materialised by November 11, Butterick was recalled to 232 Squadron. He went to Egypt in early 1941 and was posted to 33 Squadron in Greece on April 18. He was shot in the knee in hand-to hand fighting with German paratroops on Crete in May 1941 and captured. He was flown to Athens, as a PoW, where his leg was amputated. Commissioned in September 1945, Butterick stayed on in the RAF for a while after the war and was released as a Flying Officer.

Bushell, of Fenny Stratford, joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand, on No 44 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 18 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 18th and after converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 213 Squadron on the 25th. On August 12 he claimed two Bf 110s destroyed, on the 13th he probably destroyed a Bf 109, and on the 15th he claimed another Bf 110 destroyed. He damaged a Bf 109 on October 15 and probably destroyed one on the 17th. He was killed on December 31 1940, when he crashed in a snowstorm at Risby Park, Suffolk, in Hurricane P 3267. Bushell was 24 years old. He is buried in Bletchley Cemetery, Buckinghamshire.

PO 5.9.45 FO 5.3.46 FO 5.9.46

SAMUEL LESLIE BUTTERFIELD 563441 Sgt Pilot British 213 Squadron

KENNETH BUTTERWORTH 1050688 AC 2 Radar Operator

Born in Leeds in 1913, Butterfield went to Watford Boys’ Grammar School. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice, in September 1929 and passed out on August 19 1932, as a Metal Rigger. He later applied for pilot training and was selected.

Butterworth joined the RAFVR in June 1940 at 3 RAF Depot, Padgate, as an Aircrafthand. After a short radar course at RAF Yatesbury, he joined 23 Squadron at Collyweston and served with it in the Battle of Britain. He was still with the squadron in November 1940. No further service details traced.

Butterfield was with 213 Squadron at Wittering at the outbreak of war. On May 17 1940 he went with ‘B’ Flight to France. The pilots flew their Hurricanes and the ground crews flew over in an Ensign and a Bombay. The flight was attached to 79 Squadron at Merville and carried out defensive patrols, bomber escorts and army support operations from there. Over two days, May 19 and 20, Butterfield shared in the destruction of two Hs 126s. The squadron was withdrawn to Wittering on the 21st but it continued to operate over France daily, from Biggin Hill. On May 28, over Dunkirk, 213 engaged a large force of German aircraft. Butterfield shot down two Bf 109s and a Ju 88. He was then attacked by a Bf 110, which he destroyed, but he himself then suffered hits from attacking Bf 109s, which set his Hurricane on fire. He baled out and was picked up by the passing paddle steamer Sundown, which landed him at Margate. On the 31st Butterfield destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another. He was awarded the DFM (14.6.40). He failed to return from a combat over Portland on August 11 1940. His body was washed up on the French coast and he is buried in Boulogne Eastern Cemetery. Butterfield was 27. His Hurricane, P 3789, was subsequently found on the seabed two miles off Lulworth, Dorset.

PERCY BYNG-HALL 79224 PO Air Gunner

British

Canadian

23 Squadron

29 Squadron

Byng-Hall was born in England but went to Canada as a child. In late 1939 he went to England with the West Nova Scotia Regiment. He transferred to the RAF in May 1940 as an Air Gunner. He went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 18 and joined 29 Squadron at Digby on July 7 and served with it until November 18 1940, when he was posted to 218 Squadron, to fly in Wellingtons. He transferred to the Administrative Branch in July 1942 and was released from the RAF in early 1946. Byng-Hall is believed to have died in Halifax, Nova Scotia on May 21 1948. APO 18.5.40 PO 15.6.40 FO 15.6.41 FL 15.6.42

EDWARD LAWRENCE BYRNE 621878 Sgt Radar Operator British

ALEC FRANK BUTTERICK 202121 Sgt Pilot British 3 and 232 Squadrons

FIU

Byrne, of Portsmouth, joined the RAF on October 4 1938, for nine years, as an Aircrafthand. He trained as a Wireless Operator and was one of the original radar operators in FIU from April/May 1940.

Butterick joined the RAFVR in April 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741431). He was one of fifty VR pilots, who were given the opportunity of having six months’ continuous training with the regular RAF.

At that time there was no official role for them and most were LACs. The CO arranged for them to be trained as air gunners, so that they could become Sergeants and draw flying pay. On September 13 1940 Byrne was in a Blenheim which failed to return from a night patrol. He, Flight Lieutenant R G Ker-Ramsey, pilot, and Sergeant G Dixon, observer, baled out and were captured. The Blenheim, Z 5721, crashed into the Channel, off Calais. At some time Byrne was held in Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan (PoW No 266). He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Warrant Officer.

He joined 3 Squadron at Kenley on April 4 1939, on attachment. On August 29 Butterick crashed in Hurricane L 1928, landing at night at Biggin Hill, unhurt. Still with the squadron at the outbreak of war, he was later taken on to the strength, when his attachment was completed. On September 10 1939 he crashed his Hurricane, L 1939, returning from Manston to Croydon in bad visibility. He was admitted to Faversham Cottage Hospital, with a broken ankle and some injuries to the spine.

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C ANTHONY RICHARD CAIN 755057

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

THOMAS MORROW CALDERWOOD 235 Squadron

106757

Cain, of Harpenden, Hertfordshire, joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. He was called up on September 1 and after completing his training, he joined 235 Squadron.

Pilot

British

British

85 Squadron

Commissioned in July 1941, Calderwood was released from the RAF in 1946. He died on September 28 1957. PO 26.7.41 FO 26.7.42 FL 26.7.43

JAMES RUSSELL CAISTER PO

Pilot

In June 1939 Calderwood joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754372). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 8 FTS, Montrose, on No 20 Course, which ran from June 10 to August 31 1940. He converted to Hurricanes at 6 OTU and then joined 85 Squadron at Church Fenton on September 23.

He served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain and was still with 235 when he was killed on June 15 1941, aged 21. Cain is buried in Kriberg Cemetery, Gothenburg, Sweden.

44826

Sgt

603 Squadron

FRANCIS WALTER CALE Born on October 19 1906, Caister joined the RAF, as an Aircrafthand (358860), about January 1925. He later applied for pilot-training and was selected. He served in Palestine in the 1930s, as a Sergeant-Pilot.

42104

PO

Pilot

Australian

266 Squadron

Cale, from Western Australia, was educated at Guilford Grammar School, Perth.

Caister joined 603 Squadron at Turnhouse on October 29 1939. On January 19 1940 he damaged a He 111 off Aberdeen, on March 7 he shared in the destruction of a He 111 70 miles E of Aberdeen and on April 16 he shared a Do 17. Caister shared a Ju 88 on July 3, shared a Do 17 on the 6th, shared a He 111 on the 12th and attacked a Ju 88 10 miles off Aberdeen in the late evening of the 19th, which crashed at Aalborg, in Denmark. Commissioned in August, Caister claimed a He 111 destroyed on the 30th and a Bf 109 on

He was provisionally accepted by an RAAF Board for an RAF short service commission. Cale sailed for England on February 2 1939 and began his training on March 13 1939. With training completed, Cale joined 266 Squadron at Sutton Bridge on November 6 1939. On June 2 1940 Cale probably destroyed a Bf 109 over Dunkirk. On August 15 he was shot down by Bf 109s over Maidstone. He baled out and landed in the River Medway. His body was recovered from the river the following day. His Spitfire, N 3168, crashed in flames on the bank of the Medway, at Teston. Cale was 25. He is buried in the Westminster City

September 3. Three days later he was shot down over the Channel off Manston. He landed his damaged Spitfire, X 4260, in France and was captured. He had only been married for one week and did not see his wife again until May 1945. Caister was awarded the DFM (13.9.40). At some time he was in Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 242). He was released from captivity in early May 1945 and left the RAF on June 8 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. Caister died in 1994.

Cemetery, Ealing. APO 13.5.39 PO 6.11.39

WILLIAM PERCIVAL CAMBRIDGE PO 24.8.40 FO 21.8.41 FL 21.8.42

37791

PO

Pilot

British

Pilot

British

253 Squadron Cambridge was born in India in 1912, the son of a civil servant.

GEORGE DOUGLAS CALDERHEAD 86333

FL

54 Squadron He was educated at Bromsgrove School and then returned to India, where he worked in the sugar industry. He joined the RAF in February 1936, as a candidate for a short service commission. He began his ab initio course on March 9 1936, as a pupil pilot. Cambridge was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on May 16 and with training completed, he joined 29 Squadron at Debden on December 25 1936. At the end of 1938 he was ‘B’ Flight Commander. He was detached to HQ 11 Group on June 28 1939, on Air Intelligence duties. He was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on

Calderhead, from Glasgow, joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748842). He was called up on September 1 and after completing his training at RAF College FTS, Cranwell on September 6 1940, he was commissioned. He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 7, converted to Spitfires and joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on the 28th. Calderhead was posted away to 3 School of General Reconnaissance on December 12 1940. He was with 31 (General Reconnaissance) Squadron in Newfoundland, when he was killed in a flying accident on January 12 1942, aged 23. He is buried in Sherwood Cemetery, Newfoundland.

September 6 1939. Cambridge was posted from 11 Group on May 24 1940 to 253 Squadron, then re-

PO 7.9.40 FO 7.9.41

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September 6 flew off to Vaenga airfield. Some operations were flown in Russia and Cameron got a probable Ju 88 and damaged another on October 6 1941 but the main task was to convert and train Russian pilots on Hurricanes. The squadron left Russia on November 28 and reached Rosyth on December 6. It was given Spitfires and sent to Eglinton, Northern Ireland. In April 1942 134 sailed for the Middle East, arriving at Tewfik on June 6. In early July the CO and the most experienced pilots were attached to 213 Squadron in the Western Desert, while the remainder of the squadron went to Palestine. Cameron joined 213 on August 28. He destroyed a SM 79 on November 14 1942. He was posted to 335 (Hellenic) Squadron at Mersa Matruh on April 3 1943, for advisory and training duties. He received a Mention in Despatches (2.6.43). On October 5 Cameron went to 224 Group, Burma, as a Staff Officer, and on February 1 1944 he was given command of 258 Squadron. He was awarded the DFC (21.11.44) and on February 11 1945 he shared in the destruction of a Tony over Rangoon. Cameron left the Squadron on August 8 1945, returned to the UK and was awarded the DSO (2.10.45). He was granted a Permanent Commission on September 1 1945. Cameron went on to a most distinguished career in the RAF, despite losing his full flying capacity through illness soon after the war. Amongst other appointments, Cameron instructed at the Staff College, commanded the London University Air Squadron, was Personal Staff Officer to the Chief of the Air Staff, commanded RAF Abingdon, was Deputy Commandant at Cranwell and Air Member Personnel. He became Chief of the Air Staff in 1976, but, in the following year, on the death of Sir Andrew Humphrey (q.v.) he was appointed Chief of the Defence Staff, holding the appointment until 1979. He was created a life peer, Baron Cameron of Balhousie, on January 1 1983. Cameron died on January 30 1985 in the Middlesex Hospital. At the time of his death, he was Principal of King’s College, London. He is buried in St Michael’s churchyard, Halton, Buckinghamshire. In addition to his gallantry awards, Cameron was created CBE (1967), CB (1971), KCB (1975), GCB (1976) and KT (1983).

equipping at Kirton-in-Lindsey, after being in the heavy fighting in France. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander. He was detached to the AFDU at RAF Northolt on June 4, for a ten-day course on Air Fighting. On August 30 1940 he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed. The next day, after Squadron Leaders Starr and Gleave were killed and badly burned respectivly, Cambridge, as Senior Flight Commander, assumed command of 253 Squadron. On September 1 he damaged two Bf 110s and on the 4th he destroyed another. During a routine squadron patrol on September 6 1940, Cambridge’s aircraft gave trouble. He baled out but was killed. The Hurricane, P 3032, crashed at Kingsnorth. Cambridge is buried in Henley Road Cemetery, Reading, Berkshire. APO 4.5.36 PO 9.3.37 FO 9.9.38 FL 3.9.40

JAMES DOUGLAS CAMERON 747925

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

604 Squadron

Cameron, of Edinburgh, joined the RAFVR around April 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. He was called up on September 1 and after completing his training, he was posted to 604 Squadron and served with it during the Battle of Britain. Later posted to Bomber Command, Cameron was killed on May 9 1942, serving as a Flight-Sergeant with 9 Squadron at Honnington, Suffolk. His crew failed to return from a raid on WarnemŸnde, in Wellington X 3369. Cameron was 23. He is buried in the 1939-1945 War Cemetery in Berlin.

MATTHEW CAMERON 45540

F/Sgt

Pilot

British

66 Squadron

Cameron joined the RAF around July 1934, as an Aircrafthand (517583). He later applied for, and was selected for pilot training.

APO 31.7.41 FO 4.3.42 FL 4.3.43 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.1.50 WC 1.1.56 AC 1.7.64 AVM 1.7.68 AM 1.7.74 ACM 1.11.75 MRAF 31.7.77

In January 1940 he was a pilot with 66 Squadron at Duxford and on the 11th he shared in destroying a He 111 off Cromer. In May 1940 the squadron flew covering patrols over Dunkirk and on the 13th Cameron probably destroyed a Ju 88 E of Rotterdam. On August 19 he shared in a probable He 111, on the 20th shared in destroying a Bf 110 and probably a second, on September 9 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another and on the 15th he damaged a He 111. On September 27 Cameron destroyed a Ju 88, on October 13 probably a Bf 109 and on the 21st he was promoted to Flight Sergeant. On November 14 he probably destroyed a Ju 87 and damaged another. On December 17 he was posted away to CFS, Upavon, for an instructors’ course. Commissioned in March 1941, Cameron was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He must have been re-commissioned as the London Gazette shows him resigning his commission as a Flying Officer on September 20 1969. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde.

ALAN CAMPBELL 391857

Pilot

British

Air Gunner

New Zealander

264 Squadron

He volunteered for the RNZAF in November 1939 and reported to the Ground Training School at Weraroa on December 18. After completing a gunnery course at the Air Observers’ School, Ohakea, he left for the UK at the end of March 1940 in the SS Akaroa, arriving on May 9. Campbell was posted to 264 Squadron at Duxford, and in the course of continuing his training he flew two operational sorties, as an LAC and without his Air Gunner’s badge. He was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 27, where he qualified and received his brevet. After rejoining 264 on September 17 he was promoted to Sergeant. In early November 1940 he was posted to 75 Squadron at Feltwell. He made thirty operational flights in Wellingtons and at the end of his tour he went to 23 OTU, Pershore, as an instructor. He returned to operations at the end of April 1942 and joined the recently-reformed 156 Squadron at Alconbury. At his own request, he went back to 75 Squadron on May 19, to do his second tour. Campbell was front gunner in a Wellington, which failed to return from a raid on Hamburg on the night of July 28/29 1942. German evidence revealed that it had received a direct hit from ground guns at 2.10 am on the 29th and crashed at Stade. It was Campbell’s fifty-second operation. Campbell was 22. He was buried in Stade Cemetery but was later re-interred in Soltau Military Cemetery.

NEIL CAMERON Sgt

Sgt

Campbell was born in Nelson, Lancashire on January 23 1920 and he was taken to New Zealand as a baby.

PO 26.3.41 FO 26.3.42 FL 26.3.43

102585

GC 1.7.60

1 and 17 Squadrons

Cameron was born in Perth, Scotland on July 8 1920. He was educated at Perth Academy and after leaving, he went to work as a clerk for the Royal Bank of Scotland. He joined the RAFVR on May 13 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748176) and learned to fly at 11 E&RFTS, Perth. Called up at the outbreak of war, Cameron went to 3 ITW, Hastings on October 1 and on March 26 1940 to 15 EFTS, Redhill. On June 8 he was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose and after completing the course, he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 31, to convert to Hurricanes. He joined No 1 Squadron at Wittering on September 26 1940. Cameron joined 17 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on October 15. He destroyed a Ju 87, shared another and probably shared in the destruction of a third on November 8 1940 and claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on the 17th. He was one of the 17 Squadron personnel, who were transferred to 134 Squadron, formed at Leconfield on July 31 1941 for service in Russia. Cameron was commissioned at this time. The squadron sailed on August 19 in the carrier HMS Argus from Abbotsinch and on

ALAN ROBERTS McLEOD CAMPBELL 42393

PO

Pilot

Canadian

54 Squadron

Campbell, of Sorrento, British Columbia, was a candidate for an RAF short service commission when he began his flying training with the RAF on June 2 1939, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney on September 25, on No 29 Course, which ended on April 13 1940. With training completed, Campbell joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch. He was detached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on April 27. After converting to Spitfires, he

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DONALD CAIRNIE OGILVIE CAMPBELL

was posted to PDC Uxbridge on May 15, for allocation to a squadron in France. Instead, he rejoined 54 Squadron on May 25. On July 7 he made a forced-landing at Deal, slightly wounded, after an attack by Bf 109s. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and a Do 17 damaged on August 18. On the 24th he was slightly wounded, in Spitfire X 4019. He did not fly again until September 11, when he made a non-operational flight of 40 minutes. Campbell shot down a Bf 109 on March 3 1941, which crashed at Brenzett. In May 1941 Campbell was with the MSFU at Speke. He sailed for Halifax, Nova Scotia on June 10 in the Empire Moon, the second ship to sail, which was equipped with a

741676

Sgt

Pilot

British

66 Squadron

In June 1938 Campbell joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1 1939 and after completing his flying training he was serving with 66 Squadron at Coltishall by June 8 1940. Campbell was posted to RAF Biggin Hill on September 20 1940, as non-effective sick. He was admitted to Station Sick Quarters with a throat infection. He did not rejoin 66 Squadron until November 24 1940. No further service details traced.

GILLIAN LORNE CAMPBELL

catapult Hurricane. Campbell later served with 80, 123 and 234 Squadrons. He was released from the RAF on October 30 1945, joined the RCAF in August 1951, retired in 1964 and died in September 1979.

81680

PO

Pilot

British

236 Squadron

Campbell, of Bromley, Kent, joined the RAFVR in July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754786). He was called up on September 1 and on completion of his training he was commissioned on July 13 1940. He went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on that day.

APO 5.8.39 PO 6.4.40 FO 6.4.41 FL 6.4.42 After converting to Blenheims, Campbell joined 236 Squadron on August 5. 236 was a Coastal Command unit, seconded to Fighter Command for the Battle of Britain. On August 20 1940 Campbell’s Blenheim was damaged by anti-aircraft fire over Pembroke Dock but he returned safely to St Eval. On November 19 1940 Campbell was posted with his flight to Aldergrove, where it combined with a flight from 235 Squadron, to reform 272 Squadron. He flew his first operational sortie with 272 on the 21st. In May 1941 272 Squadron was posted to the Middle East The first six Beaufighters flew out from RAF Chivenor on the 24th, reaching Abu Sueir, Egypt on the 28th. 272 was operational the next day, providing fighter cover for the evacuation of Crete. Campbell damaged a Ju 88 on June 1, S of Crete. On July 24 he claimed two Ju 87s destroyed over a convoy E of Malta and on the 30th he damaged a four-engined transport between Sardinia and Malta and damaged three SM 79s on the ground at Elmas airfield, Sardinia. On November 19 1941 Campbell destroyed a Ju 87 on the ground at Timini airfield, Libya, on the 23rd shared in the destruction of four SM 79s on the ground at Barce airfield and on the 26th he shared in destroying a Caproni 311 and damaging a Fiat CR 42 on Jedaby airfield. On December 6 1941, again strafing Timini airfield, Campbell’s aircraft was hit by flak and he had to make a forced-landing 40 miles S of the airfield. A fellow pilot, Flying Officer D H Hammond, landed alongside, picked up Campbell and his navigator and took off again. Before leaving, Hammond destroyed Campbell’s aircraft with cannon fire. Campbell was awarded the DFC (30.1.42). He was still with 272, when it went to Malta on November 6 1942. He was killed on December 23 1942, flying a Spitfire in a test. He was 23, a son of Sir Edward Campbell Bt, and is buried in Durrington Cemetery, Wiltshire.

ALEXANDER MIDDLETON CAMPBELL 34932

FL

Pilot

British

29 Squadron

Born on October 16 1917, Campbell joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his training on November 16 1936, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 2 FTS, Digby on February 6 1937 and with training completed, he joined 29 Squadron at Debden on January 8 1938. On May 21 1940 was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant and appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander. Campbell was posted away on December 1 1940 and he joined 258 Squadron, recently reformed at Leconfield, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. He stayed in the RAF after the war and retired on October 17 1956, as a Wing Commander. Campbell died in 1979. APO 31.1.37 PO 8.1.38 FO 8.1O.39 FL 9.10.40 SL 1.12.41 SL 1.9.45 WC 1.1.52

DAVID BAILLIE CAMPBELL NZ 40604

Sgt

Air Gunner

New Zealander

23 Squadron

Campbell was born at Te Kopuru on June 8 1920, educated at Dargaville High School and after leaving he became a postman. He joined the Territorial Army in 1936 and in January 1940 was serving on Home Defence at Fort Takapuna, Auckland, in the 15th North Auckland Regiment.

PO 13.7.40 FO 4.7.41

NORMAN NEIL CAMPBELL

He volunteered for the RNZAF and began training as an air gunner at Weraroa on February 13 1940. He gained air experience and had gunnery training at the Air Observers’ School at Ohakea, after which he sailed for the UK in the RMS Rangitiki on April 24 and arrived there on June 8. Campbell was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 17 and he joined 23 Squadron at Ford on September 28. He remained with the squadron, carrying out night intruder operations, until March 1942, when he went to 116 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Hooton Park. In May 1942 Campbell moved to 1653 Conversion Unit at Polebrook, to crew up and convert to Liberators. On June 24 1942 Campbell’s crew flew a Liberator of 159 Squadron, en route for India, via the Middle East. They were retained in the Middle East for operations and were initially based at St Jean, Palestine, from where they carried out long-distance day and night raids against targets in Crete and Tobruk. The squadron moved to Aqir on August 12 and made attacks on enemy convoys and targets along the South Mediterranean coast, as far away as Benghazi. 159 was merged with 160 Squadron in September 1942 and went to Shandur, in Egypt. Campbell’s tour finished in March 1943 and he returned to the UK, where he was awarded the DFM in April. At the end of May 1943 Campbell left for New Zealand, via America and Australia. After arriving on August 1 he spent a short while at No 1 OTU, Ohakea and then went to ITW at Rotorua, as an instructor. In mid-January 1944 Campbell was posted back to flying, joining 3 (General Reconnaissance) Squadron at Ohakea but he was found to be medically unfit for aircrew duties and took his discharge on April 8 1944, as a Warrant Officer. Campbell had a number of businesses in the postwar years and was working for the Ministry of Works in Whangarei, when he retired in 1980. He died in June 1984.

41824

PO

Pilot

Canadian

242 Squadron

Campbell was born in St Thomas, Ontario, son of Isabel and Alex Campbell. The latter worked for the Michigan Central Railroad. N N Campbell went to Myrtle Street Public School and later the Arthur Voaden Technical School. After graduation he went on to St Thomas Collegiate School. His first job was driving cars from the factory at Windsor to the St Thomas showrooms of Disbrowe Motor Sales. In 1938 Campbell began flying at the London, Ontario Flying Club and obtained his civil pilot’s license. He applied for a short service commission in the RAF in late 1938. After provisional acceptance, he sailed for England on January 14 1939 in the Duchess of Athol. Campbell began his ab initio course on January 23 1939, as a pupil pilot. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on April 1, for a two week induction course, after which he was posted to 11 FTS, Shawbury. With training completed, Campbell arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on April 5 1940, converted to Hurricanes and went to PDC Uxbridge on May 15 1940, for allocation to a squadron in France. It is not clear whether Campbell ever got to France but he joined 32 Squadron at Wittering on May 24. On June 3 he moved to 242 Squadron at Biggin Hill. Five days later he flew to France with the squadron, to help cover the rearguard actions being fought by the British Army as it retreated to the Atlantic coast. Campbell flew back on June 18. With no maps, he ran out of fuel and made a forced-landing on a beach near Minehead. By mid-July 242 was operational again and on September 15 Campbell damaged a Do 17 and on the 18th he claimed two Ju 88s destroyed, shared in shooting down another and damaged a fourth.

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Cannon was one of those who flew operationally, without rank or brevet, receiving three shillings per day, which included one shilling flying pay. When other Radar Operators were posted away as surplus in December 1940, Cannon was flying with the CO, Squadron Leader M F Anderson, and was retained on the squadron. In March 1941 Cannon was teamed up with Flying Officer K I Geddes. During the night of the 12/13th they shot down a Ju 88, engaged in a raid on Portsmouth, on the 14/15th a He 111 was destroyed and on the 16/17th they damaged a He 111. In the early hours of June 5 1941 Cannon and Geddes shot down another He 111, into the sea off Ventnor, Isle of Wight. Soon after midnight on the 15th another He 111 was destroyed. The team’s final victory came during the night of July 8/9 1941, when a Ju 88 was shot down over Dorset. Cannon was awarded the DFM (24.6.41). He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Warrant Officer. Cannon died on September 17 1983.

On October 17 1940 Campbell was in Hurricane V 6575, which crashed into the sea after, presumably, after being hit by return fire from a Do 17 engaged off Yarmouth. His body was later recovered and he was buried on October 31 in Scottow Cemetery, Norfolk. Campbell was 27. APO 1.4.39 PO 23.10.39

ERNEST WILLIAM CAMPBELL-COLQUHOUN 39301

FL

Pilot

British

66 and 264 Squadrons Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his training on October 12 1936, as a pupil pilot. CampbellColquhoun was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on January 16 1937 and with training completed, he joined 66 Squadron at Duxford on August 7.

BERNARD CAPEL 902479

On May 12 1940 he shared in the destruction of a He 111 3 miles E of The Hague, on June 2 he probably destroyed a Bf 109, on July 29 he destroyed a He 111 and on August 2 he damaged a Bf 109. On August 21 he was posted to 264 Squadron at Kirtonin-Lindsey, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. On the 26th CampbellColquhoun damaged a Do 17. He was posted away from the squadron on November 14 1940. He went to 145 Squadron on October 24 1941, to 4 Delivery Flight on April 6 1942 and later he was with 165 Squadron at Gravesend. He shared in destroying a Do 217 and probably a FW 190 during the Dieppe operation on August 19 1942. Campbell-Colquhoun was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader. He died on February 16 1989.

Air Gunner

British

25 Squadron

Candy was commissioned in May 1940 as a direct-entry Air Gunner. After completing his gunnery training, he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 18, for training on the Blenheim. He joined 25 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on July 6. He flew only one operational sortie with 25, on July 12.

42741

British

Pilot

British

257 Squadron

In July 1937 he went to work at Bobby’s, Eastbourne to learn the retail trade. Weekends were spent flying with the Civil Air Guard. In 1939 Capon applied for a short service commission in the RAF and he was provisionally accepted. He began his ab initio course at 19 E&RFTS, Gatwick on August 8 1939. He went to 11 FTS, Shawbury on October 21 and with training completed, Capon joined 257 Squadron, when it was reformed at Hendon on May 17 1940. He claimed a He 111 destroyed on August 12 and shared a Ju 88 the next day. On October 12 he was shot down in combat with Bf 109s over Dungeness and baled out, slightly wounded. His Hurricane, V 7298, crashed at High House Farm, Stone. Squadron Leader R R S Tuck took command of 257 in September 1940. Capon always flew as his No 2. On January 1 1941, after flying a night patrol, Capon was killed, landing in a blizzard at Coltishall. He was 20 years old and is buried in Marsh Lane Cemetery, Surbiton. Capon’s sister, Yvonne, died on April 5 1942, serving in the Wrens as a writer. She was 19 years old and is also buried in Surbiton Cemetery.

ARTHUR WILLIAM CANHAM Air Gunner

PO

Capon was born in Surbiton, Surrey on August 1 1920. He was educated at Arundel House Preparatory School, Surbiton and Kingston Grammar School.

APO 18.5.40 PO 15.6.40 FO 15.6.41 FL 15.6.42

Sgt

23 Squadron

CARDALE FREDERICK ALEXANDER CAPON

On the 15th Candy was posted to 98 Squadron at Gatwick. The squadron, equipped with Battles, was preparing to move to Iceland. On July 27 the squadron moved to Newton and the ground personnel left for Iceland next day. The aircraft took off from Wick for Kaldadarnes on August 27 1940. Candy was posted away in October 1940 and left Iceland for the UK on October 26 on the SS Antonia. He was at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge by November 8 1940. He was posted to 264 Squadron on December 10 1940 and later served with 12 Squadron. He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant.

939269

British

After a spell at RAF North Coates, Capel remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. On December 30 he was posted to a gunnery course at 5 B&GS, Jurby. With his training completed, Capel was posted to 235 Squadron at North Coates on March 27 1940. He joined 23 Squadron at Collyweston on May 29 and served with the squadron in the Battle of Britain. With the advent of the Beaufighter and airborne radar many Air Gunners were posted to Bomber Command. Capel was serving with 7 Squadron at Oakington in 1941 when he was awarded the DFM (15.8.41). The citation stated that he was rear gunner of an aircraft attacking the German battleship Scharnhorst at La Pallice. His Stirling was engaged by six enemy fighters. With accurate and well-controlled fire, he shot down the first two that attempted to attack and the others flew away. He was decorated by the King at Buckingham Palace on December 2 1941. Capel did not fly again after September 1941. He later retrained as a photographic technician. He was serving in Germany prior to his release from the RAF on January 14 1946. He died in Wales on March 17 1976.

ROBERT JOHN CANDY PO

Air Gunner

Capel was born on March 15 1919 at Crewkerne. After leaving school, he worked for an insurance company. He joined the RAFVR on September 8 1939, as an Aircrafthand, and reported to RAF Uxbridge.

APO 21.12.36 PO 12.10.37 FO 12.7.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.7.44

79229

Sgt

600 Squadron

Canham enlisted in the RAFVR on October 25 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He later applied for aircrew duties and remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. After a gunnery course at 5 B&GS, Jurby, he joined 600 Squadron at Manston in May 1940 and served with it in the Battle of Britain. With the advent of the Beaufighter and airborne radar, the Air Gunners were posted away from the squadron in January 1941. Canham was sent to 11 OTU, Bassingbourn and afterwards joined 9 Squadron at Honington, flying as a rear gunner in Wellingtons. In August 1942 the squadron converted to Lancasters. Canham was discharged from the RAF on February 9 1943, following an operation at RAF Hospital, Ely, for the removal of splintered bone from his head and a badly-perforated ear drum. After the war Canham emigrated to New Zealand. He died there in 1990.

APO 9.10.39 PO 11.5.40

HERBERT CAPSTICK 79176

PO

Observer

Jamaican

236 Squadron

BERNARD CANNON 1052310

AC 2

Radar Operator

British

604 Squadron

Capstick was born on November 19 1920. His father was a senior Civil Servant. Capstick attended Cressbrook School, Kirkby Lonsdale and Sedbergh School, where he was a house prefect in Evans House, leaving in 1937. He joined the RAFVR in May 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (751809). He was called to full-time service on September 1 and was sent to 4 ITW. He was posted to No 11 Air Observer Navigation School, Hamble on November 20 1939, on No 1 Air Observer Course, as an LAC.

Born in Bolton in 1915, Cannon joined the RAFVR in June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. He volunteered for flying duties and at the end of June he was at RAF Yatesbury for an airborne radar course and on July 20 he joined 604 Squadron at Gravesend, never having flown.

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With the course completed on March 9 1940 Capstick went to 9 B&GS, Penrhos for gunnery training. Commissioned in May 1940, he joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island on July 15. Capstick served with the squadron in the Battle of Britain. On November 19 1940 he was posted with his flight to RAF Aldergrove, where it combined with a flight of 235 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron. Capstick flew his first operational sortie with 272 on the 23rd. On April 12 1941 he was posted to 254 Squadron at Sumburgh. A posting as an instructor in September 1941 was almost immediately cancelled. On November 11 1941 he went to 228 Squadron, operating Sunderlands from Stranraer. He was attached to 202 Squadron at Gibraltar between January 11 and February 11 1942, before returning to 228 Squadron. From mid-April to early May he was at No 1 AAS, Manby on No 37 bombing leaders’ course. On May 21 he was a member of the crew of a Sunderland that attacked a U-boat in the Atlantic, probably causing damage. In late May Capstick was posted to Canada to a specialist navigation course at Port Albert. Other postings in Canada followed. He was released from the RAF on December 27 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant with 1068 flying hours. He qualified as a solicitor in London in 1947, becoming a solicitor in Hong Kong in 1948. He returned to Jamaica in 1951 and was admitted as a solicitor there. It is believed that Capstick died before 1961.

After converting to Spitfires, he joined 263 Squadron at Drem on June 23. He went to 603 Squadron at Turnhouse on July 3 and he joined ‘B’ Flight, which was then detached to Montrose, for aerodrome defence and convoy protection duties. The squadron went south to Hornchurch on August 27 1940. On September 11 Cardell damaged a He 111. On September 27 he was in combat with Bf 109s over the Channel. He destroyed one but it is believed that he was wounded in the engagement. He attempted to get back to the English coast but had to bale out at 500 feet a quarter of a mile off Folkestone. His parachute failed to open but he surfaced again very quickly. His friend, Pilot Officer P G Dexter, who had been flying with him, kept making low passes over Folkestone Harbour, trying to attract people’s attention to Cardell’s plight. When he failed to do so, he made a forced-landing on Folkestone beach. Hastily casting off his flying gear, he ran to where a group of men were trying to launch two boats. He helped launch the first and jumped into the second. Cardell was still afloat, but dead, when they reached him. His death certificate stated ‘Died from multiple injuries received due to war service’, probably caused by hitting the sea after such a long fall. Cardell was 23. He is buried in Holy Trinity churchyard, Great Paxton.

PO 5.5.40 FO 5.5.41 FL 5.5.42

PO 10.6.40

BRIAN JOHN GEORGE CARBURY

CHARLES FREDERICK CARDNELL

40288 FO

80807

Pilot

New Zealander

603 Squadron

The son of a veterinary surgeon, Carbury was born in Wellington on February 27 1918. He was educated at New Lynn and King’s College, Auckland and was a fine athlete.

PO

British

23 Squadron

PO 2.6.40

FRANK REGINALD CAREY 43132

PO

Pilot

British

43 Squadron

Born in Brixton, South London on May 7 1912, Carey was educated at Belvedere School, Haywards Heath. He joined the RAF in September 1927, as an Aircraft Apprentice (561516), at Halton and passed out in August 1930, as a Metal Rigger. Carey went to 43 Squadron at Tangmere as an AC1. In 1933 he returned to Halton for a conversion course, to be a Fitter II (Airframes). In 1934 he was posted to Worthy Down, as an LAC, and served there with 7 and 58 Squadrons. He had applied for pilot training and was selected in 1935. He passed out as a Sergeant-Pilot from 6 FTS, Netheravon and joined 43 Squadron in September 1936. He was still with the squadron at the outbreak of war and on January 30 1940 he shared in destroying a He 111, which was attempting to bomb fishing boats. On February 3 Carey shared in the destruction of a He 111 and on the 12th he shared another. He was awarded the DFM (1.3.40) and promoted to Flight Sergeant. On March 28 Carey shared in the destruction of a He 111 E of Wick. He was commissioned on April 1 1940. On the 10th he was posted to 3 Squadron at Kenley. Carey’s section was sent to France on May 10. On that day he claimed four He 111s destroyed and another shared, on the 11th another He 111 destroyed and on the 12th he shot down a He 111 and a Ju 87 and probably a second Ju 87. On the 13th Carey claimed one Do 17 destroyed, a He 111 shared and possibly a Bf 110. On the 14th he claimed a Do 17 shot down S of Louvain. His Hurricane, L 1932, was hit by return fire and he made a crash-landing SE of Brussels. After being picked up by a Belgian patrol, Carey was admitted to hospital, with a leg wound. He was eventually evacuated to England in early June, only to learn that, officially, he was ‘Missing, believed killed’. Carey was awarded the DFC and Bar, both being gazetted on the same day (31.5.40). He rejoined 43 Squadron at Tangmere on June 24. On July 9 he destroyed a Bf 110 and shared two others, on the 19th he shot down a Bf 109 and damaged two others. On this day Flight Lieutenant J W C Simpson was wounded and Carey was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant.

PO 27.9.38 FO 27.4.40 FL 27.4.41

Pilot

British

Flying a night patrol on August 8, Cardnell’s Blenheim crashed near Peterborough, from an unknown cause but it was believed to be from a temporary loss of control. He and his gunner, Sergeant C Stephens, were both killed. Cardnell was 22. He is buried in Highgate Cemetery, London.

PHILIP MELVILLE CARDELL 80818

Pilot

Cardnell joined the RAFVR in November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742645). He was called up on September 1 1939 and with flying training completed, he was commissioned and went to 5 OTU on June 10 1940, for conversion to Blenheims. He joined 23 Squadron at Collyweston on the 23rd.

Tiring of working as a footwear salesman, he went to England in 1937 and applied successfully for an RAF short service commission. He began his ab initio training on September 27, as a pupil pilot. After completing his flying training in June 1938, he joined 41 Squadron at Catterick. On September 1 1939 Carbury was attached to RAF Turnhouse, as Ops Officer ‘B’ in the Sector Operations Room. On October 6 he was detached from RAF Turnhouse to 603 Squadron, which was based there. This attachment ceased and became a posting to 603 on October 24 1939. Carbury damaged a He 111 N of Arbroath on December 17 and on March 7 1940 he shared in the destruction of another He 111 70 miles E of Aberdeen. On July 3 1940 Carbury shared in the destruction of a Ju 88. 603 Squadron flew south to Hornchurch on August 27 and on the 28th he damaged a Bf 109 and in the three days from the 29th to the 31st he claimed seven Bf 109s destroyed. On the 31st he was slightly wounded. On September 2 he shot down a Bf 109, on the 7th two more and probably a third, on the 11th a probable He 111 and on the 14th another Bf 109. On October 2 Carbury destroyed a Bf 109, on the 5th he damaged another, on the 7th he shot one down, on the 10th two more and on the 14th he damaged a Ju 88. Carbury’s tally during the Battle of Britain of 15 enemy aircraft destroyed, 2 probables, 1 shared and 3 damaged placed him among the five top-scoring pilots of Fighter Command in the Battle. He is one of the few pilots who were awarded the DFC (24.9.40) and Bar (25.10.40) during the Battle. On November 29 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17 with eight other pilots, in an engagement 8 miles E of Ramsgate. 603 returned to Scotland in December and on the 25th, flying from Drem, Carbury damaged a Ju 88 N of St Abb’s Head. On December 30 1940 he was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as an instructor. He did not fly operationally again. On October 1 1941, having been convicted of fraud, he was dismissed the service by General Court Martial. Carbury remained in England after the war and died there in July 1962. APO 28.11.37

PO

603 Squadron

Cardell was born in 1917 in Great Paxton, Huntingdonshire. He joined the RAFVR in May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748036). He was called up on September 1 and was posted to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on December 29 1939, on No 6 Course, which ended on June 10 1940. He was then commissioned and went to 5 OTU, Aston Down.

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WILLIAM FLEMING CARNABY

On August 8 he damaged a Bf 109, on the 12th probably destroyed a Ju 88, on the 13th he probably destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged two others, on the 15th shot down another Ju 88, on the 16th destroyed two Ju 87s and damaged two more and on the 18th destroyed another Ju 87. On the 18th Carey was himself shot down and he crashed at Holme Street Farm, Pulborough, in Hurricane R 4109, wounded in the right knee. He was sent to the Royal West Sussex Hospital, Chichester and did not return to the squadron until October 5, with the rank of Pilot Officer. In November 1940 Carey was posted to 52 OTU, as an instructor, but returned to operations in February 1941, as a Flight Commander with 245 Squadron at Aldergrove. He was back at 52 OTU not long afterwards and was posted away on July 25 1941. Carey went to Baginton on August 15, to form and command 135 Squadron. It sailed on December 6 for the Far East and arrived at Rangoon on January 19 1942. Ten days later he destroyed a Nakajima Ki 27 over the city and damaged another. Carey was promoted on February 12 1942 and became Wing Commander Flying of 267 Wing. On the 23rd he destroyed a Ki 51, on the 24th a Ki 27 and a transport aircraft and on the 26th three Ki 27s. He was awarded a second Bar to the DFC (24.3.42). His final victory was on October 25, when he got a possible Oscar. Later in the year he was appointed to command RAF Alipore and at the end of 1942 Carey was posted to Air HQ Bengal. In February 1943 he was given command of the Air Fighting Training Unit, Amarda Road. Carey was posted to 73 OTU, Abu Sueir in November 1944 to command, as a Group Captain. For his work in India he was awarded the AFC (1.1.45). He returned to England in July 1945 and was granted a Permanent Commission. Carey held various staff appointments until finally; in 1958 he was made Air Adviser to the British High Commission in Australia. He retired on June 2 1960, as a Group Captain, and was made a CBE (11.6.60). Carey was also awarded the Silver Star (US). Carey went to work at the Rolls Royce Aero Division in Australia and returned to live in the UK on retirement. He died on December 6 2004. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde.

90157

FO

Pilot

British

264 and 85 Squadrons

Born at Dulwich, London on November 21 1914, Carnaby was educated at Uppingham School and Christ’s College, Cambridge, reading Economics and Law. Carnaby learned to fly with the University Air Squadron. After leaving Cambridge, he went to London to study for a Chartered Surveyor qualification, with a view to joining his father’s firm, Marten and Carnaby. He joined 601 Squadron, AAF at Hendon in late 1935 and he was commissioned in January 1936. Carnaby relinquished this commission on March 1 1938 for a four-year commission in the AAFRO. He was called to full-time service on August 31 1939 and later rejoined 601 Squadron. Carnaby joined 264 Squadron on May 19 1940. His engine failed on June 7 and he baled out of Defiant L 7004, injured. Admitted to Duxford Station Sick Quarters, he was later transferred to Littleport Hospital. He took part in the squadron’s last spell of day-fighting, from Hornchurch in late August. On the 28th Carnaby returned to base, having destroyed a He 111 over Dover, and then had his Defiant severely damaged by return fire. On October 22 1940 he joined 85 Squadron at Castle Camps, as it went over to night-fighting. On February 5 1943 Carnaby was killed, as a Flight Lieutenant with 25 Squadron. His Mosquito, HJ 918, broke up in cloud near Church Fenton. His navigator, Flying Officer J H L Kemp, was also killed. Carnaby is buried in Newmarket Cemetery, Suffolk. PO (AAF) 3.1.36 PO (AAFRO) 1.3.38 PO 31.8.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

RALPH CARNALL PO 1.4.40 FO 1.4.41 FL 23.11.41 SL 6.5.43 WC 6.5.45 WC 1.7.47 GC 1.7.56

48169

Sgt

Pilot

British

Born on August 23 1913, Carnall went to Longton School in the Potteries. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice (563058), in January 1929 and passed out in December 1931, as a Fitter.

SYDNEY CARLIN 81942

PO

Air Gunner

British

111 Squadron

264 Squadron

Carlin was born on March 24 1889. He was at St Bede’s School, Hornsea from 1901 to 1906, when he went to Kingston College of Engineering from 1907 to 1909. He enlisted in the 18th Hussars in Autumn 1909 but bought himself out on December 3 of that year.

He applied for pilot training, was selected in 1935 and began flying in 1936. With the course completed at 9 FTS, Hullavington, he was posted to 111 Squadron at Northolt on February 22 1937. Carnall was still with the squadron in 1940 and was in action over Dunkirk. On July 10 he crashed on landing at Hawkinge, after his port wing was damaged during a combat off Folkestone, in which he damaged a Do 17. On the 25th Carnall damaged a Bf 109 and on the 31st he shared a Ju 88. On August 16 he was shot down over Kent and crashed in Hurricane P 3029 at Palmers Green Farm, Brenchley, badly burned. He spent a year in hospital, during which time he underwent plastic surgery by Archie McIndoe at East Grinstead and became a Guinea Pig. After rehabilitation, Carnall went on a flying instructor’s course, qualifying in February 1942. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in March, he spent two years instructing on Tiger Moths. In Spring 1944 Carnall did a conversion course on to PR Mosquitos. He and his navigator were posted to 684 Squadron in Calcutta. They picked up a reinforcement Mosquito in the UK and flew eastwards. The flight was an eventful one, fraught with many difficulties, and ended with Carnall making a crash-landing in the jungle. 684 Squadron remained in Calcutta until October 1945. It then moved to Tan Son Nhut airfield, near Saigon. Shortly after its arrival there was a special parade, on which a number of Japanese officers were required to formally surrender their swords to selected British officers. Carnall received a sword from a Lieutenant Sato. This sword is now held by the RAF Museum. Carnall stayed on in the RAF, in the Fighter Control Branch. He retired on August 24 1963 as a Squadron Leader and died in 1984.

Before the Great War he was farming near Hull. On August 8 1914 he rejoined the 18th Hussars, understating his age and not declaring his previous service with the Regiment. He went to France on August 28. He was promoted to Lance Corporal on May 17 1915 and was awarded the DCM (6.8.15). He was commissioned in the Royal Engineers on September 15 1915, as a 2nd Lieutenant. Promoted to Lieutenant on May 21 1916, he received wounds on July 18, which resulted in his losing a leg. For this action he was awarded the MC (20.10.16). On July 1 1917, Carlin known ever after as ‘Timbertoes’ because of his wooden leg, managed to transfer to the RFC. After completing his flying training, he was posted to CFS as an instructor. Carlin joined 74 Squadron in France on May 26 1918, claimed his first victory on June 13 and in July he was a Flight Commander. Before being shot down and captured on September 21 1918, Carlin had destroyed four German aircraft, probably a fifth and had also destroyed five enemy balloons. He was awarded the DFC (2.11.18). In 1922 Carlin went to Kenya and took up farming. In the early thirties he was managing a farm there for a German baron. Carlin was an expert rider and organised a polo team. He was a Staff Officer in the Kenya Defence Force from 1930 to 1935. Back in England, Carlin was commissioned in the Army Officers’ Emergency Reserve on August 30 1939, as a Captain. In February 1940 he was in the 7th Anti-Aircraft Regiment, Royal Artillery in Malta, when he was accepted for transfer to the RAF VR, for training as an Air Gunner. Carlin returned to England and on July 6 he was posted to No 1 AAS, Manby, on No 10 Air Gunnery Course. He completed his training there on No 11 Course on July 27, was commissioned and joined 264 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey. He was detached to CGS, Warmwell on September 8 1940 for a course, He retuned to 264 on October 8. Carlin went to 151 Squadron on January 5 1941. On May 9, running to his Defiant turret, to fire at German aircraft attacking the aerodrome, he was killed by their machine-gun fire. He was cremated at Hull Crematorium. Carlin was almost certainly the oldest holder of the Battle of Britain clasp and one of the very few men entitled to wear RFC pilot’s wings and an RAF air gunner’s brevet.

PO 16.3.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 16.3.44 FL 16.9.45 SL 1.1.57

JACK CONWAY CARPENTER Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

Pilot

Canadian

229 and 46 Sqdns

Carpenter was born at Bexhill, Sussex on March 6 1919, son of Noel and Ida Carpenter, formerly of Toronto. The family returned to Canada later in 1919 and resettled in Toronto. J C Carpenter was educated at Upper Canada College and in 1938 he was Cadet Captain in the College Corps. The family returned to the United Kingdom in June 1938. From their new home in Anglesey, Wales, Carpenter applied for admission to Greenwich Naval College. Being six

2nd Lt (RE) 15.9.15 Lt (RE) 21.5.16 PO 27.7.40

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WILLIAM JOSEPH CARR

months too old for normal entry as a Midshipman, he joined the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on July 1 1939, rated as Midshipman (A). He did his elementary flying training at 14 EFTS, Elmdon and moved on to 7 FTS, Peterborough on December 11 1939, on No 7 (FAA) Course, which ended on May 27 1940. In response to Churchill’s request to the Admiralty for pilots, Carpenter was one of those attached to the RAF on June 15 1940. He was seconded from HMS Daedalus. He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on June 17, on No 1 Course. After converting to Hurricanes, Carpenter joined 229 Squadron at Wittering on July 1 and moved to 46 Squadron at Digby on the 23rd. Carpenter destroyed a Bf 110 near North Weald on September 3 and two days later he shot down a Bf 109 in the

36127

FL

Pilot

British

235 Squadron

Carr went to Morning Lane LCC Elementary School. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice (563438), on August 27 1929 and passed out on August 19 1931, as a Fitter, Aero Engines. He later applied for pilot training and was a Sergeant-Pilot when he was granted a Permanent Commission on February 24 1938. Four days later Carr was posted to the Aeroplane and Armament Experimental Establishment at Martlesham Heath. He was posted to 235 Squadron at Detling on June 2 1940 and damaged a Do 17 on July 1. He was posted back to the A&AEE on July 21 1940, as a staff pilot. He was awarded the AFC (1.7.41). Carr remained with the A&AEE and was involved in five major aircraft accidents before the one in which he lost his life on August 26 1942. He was one of four men killed when Warwick BV 214 crashed 2 miles SW of Shrewton, Wiltshire, after fabric detached from the port mainplane. Carr was 29. He is buried in St Paul’s churchyard, Mill Hill, Middlesex.

Southend area. On September 8 he was shot down, during an attack on enemy aircraft over Sheppey. He baled out but fell dead. His Hurricane, P 3201, crashed at Bearsted, near Maidstone. Carpenter’s body was taken to the Royal Navy Dockyard at Chatham, from whence it was returned to his family at Llanfaethlu, Anglesey. He was buried at sea, off Borthwen Beach, on September 16 1940. He was 21 years old.

PO 24.2.38 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

ROBERT ALBERT CARR-LEWTY Midshipman (A) 1.7.39 Acting Sub-Lt 14.3.40 Sub-Lt 5.7.40

46026

Sgt

Pilot British

Born at Bradford, Yorkshire on July 6 1911, Carr-Lewty was educated at Carlton Grammar School, Bradford and Edinburgh University. In January 1936 he joined the RAF on a direct-entry pilot scheme (580095).

JOHN MICHAEL VOWLES CARPENTER 42191

PO

Pilot

British

41 Squadron

222 Squadron

Carpenter was born on April 9 1921 in Rhos-on-Sea. He was educated at Clifton College and on leaving there he joined the RAF on a short service commission.

He began his flying training at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell on January 6 1936 and, after completing his ab initio course, he was enlisted in the RAF on March 2 1936. He completed his training at 4 FTS, Abu Sueir, Egypt. He passed out as a Sergeant-Pilot/ Navigator in August 1936 and was then posted to 107 Squadron at Andover in December. He moved to 41 Squadron at Catterick in October 1937. During Dunkirk and the Battle of Britain Carr-Lewty flew over 100 operational sorties, claiming a Bf 109 destroyed and a Ju 87 damaged on July 29 and probably destroyed another on September 5. In December 1940 he was posted to 15 EFTS, Kingstown, as an instructor, commissioned in June 1941 and in December he went to the staff at 5 FIS, Scone, moving to 10 FIS, Woodley in August 1942. Carr-Lewty was recategorised A1 on all types in November 1943. He was offered the post of CFI to the Royal Turkish Air Force in 1944 and CFI of the Free French Flying Instructors’ School in 1946 but he declined both. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.45) and left the RAF in 1946. He became Principal of the Teeside Flying Club and later owned a bakery in Hull. He sold this enterprise to finance his studies as a doctor. In 1958 Carr-Lewty went to Edinburgh University Medical School. He qualified as MB, Ch B in July 1964. He was a GP in Scarborough, where he was the doctor on call for the Grand Hotel. He acted as Medical Officer for RAF Topcliffe and RAF Fylingdales. He died on March 4 1994. Carr-Lewty was an avid birdwatcher and wrote magazine articles on the subject of birds.

He began his ab initio course at 15 E&RFTS, Redhill on May 1 1939, as a pupil pilot. After a short induction course at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, Carpenter went to 10 FTS, Ternhill on July 10, on No 12 Course, which ended on December 9 1939. Carpenter arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on December 28, converted to Gladiators and joined 263 Squadron at Filton on January 25 1940. On April 21 the squadron embarked on HMS Furious for Norway, flying off three days later, to land on frozen Lake Lesjaskog. By the 26th all Gladiators were either destroyed or unserviceable, so 263 returned to the UK in the carrier. In May 1940 the squadron was involved again in Norway. From the 21st, when it landed at Bardufoss, until it re-embarked on HMS Glorious on June 6, 263, it gave a good account of itself, covering the evacuation of the Army and flying offensive patrols. The carrier was sunk by enemy action soon after sailing and nearly all 263’s pilots were lost. Carpenter did not fly on to the carrier and returned to the UK in the MV Arandora Star. He joined 222 Squadron in late June 1940 and flew his first sortie on July 2. On August 31 he claimed a probable Bf 109, on September 1 he destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 3rd a Bf 110. On September 4 Carpenter destroyed a Bf 109 over Maidstone. His Spitfire, P 9378, was then hit, possibly by anti-aircraft fire. He baled out, wounded and the aircraft crashed at Boughton, Kent. He rejoined the squadron on October 24 1940 and on the 30th he damaged a Bf 109. Carpenter stayed with 222 until April 22 1941, when he was posted to 46 Squadron at Sherburn-in-Elmet. The squadron was preparing to leave for the Middle East. On May 20 it embarked on HMS Argus. At Gibraltar pilots and aircraft were transferred to the carriers HMS Ark Royal and Furious. On June 6 they flew off to Hal Far, Malta. 46 was kept in Malta and re-numbered 126 Squadron. On June 30 Carpenter shot down a Mc 200, on September 4 he claimed another, on November 8 a Mc 202, on the 12th another Mc 202 and on the 22nd he damaged another. On December 27 he shot a Ju 88 down into the sea. Carpenter, who had been a Flight Commander since early October 1941, was awarded the DFC (2.1.42). He damaged a Ju 88 on January 14 1942 and was soon afterwards posted to 112 Squadron in the Western Desert. In May 1942 he went to 92 Squadron at Heliopolis. Carpenter completed his tour and was posted to South Africa, where he instructed at 66 and 42 Air Schools. In June 1943 he returned to the Middle East, where he was briefly with 417 Squadron, before rejoining 92 Squadron in Italy, as a Flight Commander. In November 1943 Carpenter was with 145 Squadron in Italy and in January 1944 he was given command of 72 Squadron at Lago. On April 11 he was posted away, received a Bar to the DFC (7.7.44) and returned to the UK. He went to Hawker’s as a production test pilot. Carpenter was granted a Permanent Commission in September 1945 and he retired on December 31 1959, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. Carpenter died in Devon on February 11 2005.

PO 26.6.41 FO 26.6.42 FL 26.6.43

JOHN CHARLES CARRIERE 41825

FO

Pilot

Canadian

219 Squadron

Born in Quebec in 1915, Carriere joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on January 23 1939, as a pupil pilot. With flying training completed, he was posted to 219 Squadron when it was reformed at Catterick on October 4 1939. He went to 229 Squadron at Digby on October 23 and rejoined 219 Squadron, then at Redhill, on December 9 1939. Carriere was on a searchlight co-operation flight in a Blenheim on August 6 1940, when he collided with high tension cables and crashed into a river. The aircraft was written off but Carriere and his gunner, Sergeant C Beveridge, survived. Beveridge was treated for facial injuries and returned to duty but Carriere was admitted to hospital with facial injuries and was non effective sick for a month. He did not fly again until September 12. In January 1944 Carriere transferred to the RCAF and he was released in Canada on November 28 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant.

APO 1.5.39 PO 27.12 39 FO 27.12.40 FL 23.12.41 FL 1.9.45

APO 1.4.39 PO 23.10.39 FO 23.10.40

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MALCOLM KEITH CARSWELL 39780

FL

Pilot

New Zealander

He went to 43 Squadron, also at Tangmere, on August 24 1939. He was later with 605 Squadron at Wick. On April 10 1940 he shared in destroying a He 111 over the North Sea. Carter was posted to France on May 16. He joined 73 Squadron at Gaye on the 21st. On the 24th he destroyed a Bf 110 SW of Cambrai. 73 was withdrawn to Church Fenton on June 18. Carter was posted to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on July 13, for posting abroad. He arrived there to find the posting was cancelled and that he was temporarily attached to RAF Uxbridge for Special Duties. He rejoined 73 Squadron on July 23 and on August 15 1940 he claimed two Ju 88s destroyed and probably another, off Flamborough Head. Carter was attached to 302 (Polish) Squadron at Leconfield on August 24, as a Section Leader. He went to Duxford with a 302 detachment on September 18, to operate from there with the Bader Big Wing. The attachment ceased on the 25th and they returned to Leconfield. Carter was with a squadron patrol on October 18 1940. It became lost over the Surrey hills because of fog. The leader caught a glimpse of Kempton Park racecourse and ordered his pilots to make forced-landings. Carter was one of four pilots killed in the attempt, when he tried to bale out at 50 feet. His Hurricane, P 3931, crashed on the racecourse. Flying Officer J Borowski was killed nearby, attempting a forced-landing on the racecourse. Pilot Officers S Wapniarek and A Zukowski were also killed, crashing in other places. Carter was 21 and is buried in Queen’s Road Cemetery, Croydon. The squadron was represented at his funeral by Flight Lieutenant J A Thomson and Flight Lieutenant J N W Farmer.

43 Squadron

Carswell was born in Invercargill on July 25 1915 and educated at Southland Boys’ High School. He was apprenticed to a chemist and began a course in pharmacy. In 1936 he began having flying lessons at the Invercargill Flying Club and in June his instructor arranged for an interview for an RNZAF short service commission. At that time there were no immediate vacancies so Carswell made his own way to the UK in early 1937. He applied on arrival and was provisionally accepted. On March 30 he began his ab initio training at 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick and in June was posted to 6 FTS, Netheravon. After completing the course, he joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere in January 1938. On February 3 1940 Carswell damaged a He 111 near the Farne Islands. On the 9th he was one of a section chasing a He 111, that was attacking a cargo ship off the coast between Acklington and Rosyth. His engine suddenly failed and, being too low to bale out, he decided to ditch the Hurricane close to the ship. The aircraft went straight down but Carswell managed to extricate himself. He could not inflate his life jacket and tried to swim through the freezing choppy sea to the ship, about a mile away. He passed out and came to in the ship, now docked at Rosyth. His life had been saved by the crew giving him artificial respiration. Carswell was off flying for three months but arrived back just in time to fly south to Tangmere on May 31. The next day he was shot down in flames over Dunkirk and baled out. He landed very near the front line and, after convincing French soldiers that he was an ally, he was taken to an emergency hospital in Dunkirk. He boarded a destroyer under Stuka attack and finally reached England, where he was taken to hospital, arriving there in the evening of the same day he had taken off from Tangmere. Carswell returned to 43 on August 24. On September 2, in a combat over Ashford, his Hurricane was hit and caught fire. He baled out, burned on legs, arms, hands and face and with cannon shell splinters in chest and thigh. After leaving hospital, Carswell was grounded for medical reasons and took up control duties. In October 1940 he went to Exeter as a Fighter Controller, moving in November to Orkney on Defence of Scapa Flow. In March 1941 he went to Peterhead as Chief Fighter Controller and in May 1942 moved to Biggin Hill. He had several Controller postings over the next three years. Carswell transferred to the RNZAF in January 1944. He regained his flying category in April 1945 and went to 17 SFTS for a combined refresher and twin-engined conversion course for night fighters. Towards the end of the year Carswell applied for discharge in the UK and was released on January 26 1946. After a long working life in Italy, he retired to Australia. Carswell died in Sydney in 2005.

APO 14.12.38 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40

VICTOR ARTHUR CARTER 84966

Pilot

British

British

615 and 607 Squadrons

He went to 10 FTS, Ternhill, on No 21 Course, which ran from June 10 to September 6 1940. Carter was commissioned on the 7th and went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, to convert to Hurricanes. He joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick on September 30 and to 607 Squadron at Tangmere on October 9. He was posted away to 258 Squadron at Drem on December 6 1940. In 1942 Carter transferred to the Administrative Branch and was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. He is remembered on a plaque at Dulwich College, which was unveiled on March 14 2002.

LESLIE RAYMOND CARTER Sgt

Pilot

Carter was born in 1917 and educated at Dulwich College. He joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745884). Called up on September 1, he did his elementary flying training at No 1 EFTS, Hatfield.

APO 30.5.37 PO 5.4.38 FO 5.10.39 FL 5.10.40 SL 1.12.41

754236

PO

74, 66, 610 and 41 Squadrons PO 7.9.40 FO 7.9.41 FL 7.9.42

Carter, from Hertfordshire, joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 14 FTS, Cranfield, on No 7 Course, which ran from April 28 to August 3 1940. He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 10 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 74 Squadron at Kirton-inLindsey on the 26th. Three days later he joined 66Squadron at Coltishall. When the squadron moved to Kenley that day, Carter remained behind for further training. He rejoined 66 at Kenley on September 7. The stay was again short and Carter was posted to 610 Squadron at Acklington on the 10th. He moved on again on October 1 1940, joining 41 Squadron at Hornchurch. On the 11th Carter, whilst climbing to engage Bf 109s, collided with Flying Officer D H O’Neill. Both pilots baled out but O’Neill’s parachute failed to open and he was killed. Carter’s Spitfire, X 4554, crashed and burned out at South Ash Manor, West Kingsdown. His last sortie with 41 Squadron was made on October 22 but he remained with the squadron. In early 1941 Carter rejoined 74 Squadron at Manston. He was reported ‘Missing’ on July 6 1941. Carter was 21 and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 35.

GERALD CHARLES TREWALLA CARTHEW 42484

PO

Pilot British

Pilot Canadian

53, 85 and 145 Squadrons

Carthew was born on April 16 1921 at Mountain Park, Alberta, where his father was working as a surveyor in mines. Carthew’s mother returned to the UK when he was very young. Carthew and his sister accompanied her. Carthew attended Southdown College, Eastbourne and Hastings Grammar School. He never went back to Canada but retained Canadian citizenship throughout his life. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began training on June 26 1939. With training completed, he arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on April 5 1940, converted to Hurricanes and then joined 17 Squadron at Hawkinge on May 12. He moved briefly to 213 Squadron at Biggin Hill, then joined 229 Squadron on May 20, went to 85 Squadron at Debden on the 25th and finally to 253 Squadron at Kirton-inLindsey on June 6. Carthew shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on September 11. He returned to 85 Squadron at Castle Camps on the 24th, for further training. He went to 145 Squadron at Tangmere on October 14. He flew his last sortie with the squadron on October 16. There is no further mention of Carthew in the 145 Squadron ORB. Transferred to the Administrative Branch in 1942, Carthew was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He worked as an accountant. Carthew died in July 2013. An uncle, Lieitenant William Morden Carthew, was killed on June 3 1916, serving with the 49th Battalion, Canadian Infantry and is buried at La Brique Military Cemetery No 2. Mount Carthew near Pincher Creek, Alberta was named after W M Carthew.

PETER EDWARD GEORGE CARTER 41375

PO

73 and 302 Squadrons

Carter joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his flying training on October 6 1938, as a pupil pilot. He completed his training and joined No 1 Squadron at Tangmere in mid-1939.

APO 19.8.39 PO 28.2.40 FO 28.2.41 FL 28.2.42

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JOHN CHAMPION CARVER 72396

FO

Pilot

British

Malta convoys with Hurricanes from HMS Victorious. He was awarded the DSC (10.11.42) for his services, during which he shot down at least two Ju 88s. In 1945 he was Air Group Commander in the 21st Aircraft Carrier Squadron in the Indian Ocean and received a Mention in Despatches for an air strike on Sumatra from HMS Khedive on June 30. He was made a CBE (13.6.59) and was at that time on loan to the Government of India. Carver was ADC to the Queen in the late 1950s. He retired on March 1 1966, as a Captain. Carver died on December 23 1983.

87 Squadron

Born on January 30 1916, Carver was educated at Winchester College and later Christ Church, Oxford, where he read Chemistry. He was a member of the University Air Squadron and he joined and was commissioned in the RAFVR in August 1938.

Midshipman 1.5.34 Acting Sub-Lt 1.9.36 FO (RAF) 12.9.37 Lt 1.9.38 Lt-Cdr 1.12.45 Cdr 31.12.49 Capt 30.6.56

He worked at ICI Singapore before the war and did some flying with the VR in Malaya in 1939. Carver was called up at the outbreak of war. With training completed, he went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge from the Air Ministry on September 11 1940. He joined 87 Squadron at Church Fenton from 6 OTU on September 30 and was still serving with the squadron in November 1940. He was a Flight Commander in 247 Squadron at Portreath in June 1941 and on July 31 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17. In September Carver was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader and posted to HQ 10 Group. He returned to operations in January 1942, when he was given command of 118 Squadron at Predannack. Carver took part in the attack on the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau on February 12. On March 13 he baled out after his Spitfire was hit by return fire from a Ju 88. As he left the aircraft he struck his face against the hood and was stunned. His parachute opened and he came to in the sea. After some difficulty in disentangling himself from the shrouds, he inflated his dinghy and set out to paddle the seventy miles to the English coast. After 57 hours, in wintry conditions, Carver was within seven miles of his objective, when he was picked up by a Royal Navy vessel, the attention of which he attracted by blowing his whistle. Carver was awarded the DFC (10.4.42). He was reported ‘Missing’ on June 6 1942, in action over Cherbourg. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 65.

HERBERT ROBERT CASE 83272

Pilot

British

29 and 229 Squadrons

Carver joined the RAFVR about September 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742080), and did his pre-war training at 7 E&RFTS, Desford. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill, on No 17 Course, which ran from December 9 1939 to May 25 1940.

ERNEST CASSIDY 40507

Pilot

British

25 and 249 Squadrons

On the night of July 19/20 1940 Cassidy probably destroyed a He 115 12 miles E of Walton soon after midnight. On September 3 Cassidy’s Blenheim was attacked in error by a Hurricane of 46 Squadron, flown by Flight Lieutenant A C Rabagliati. Cassidy made a forced-landing at Hatfield Heath,

RODNEY HAROLD POWER CARVER British

FO

Born on October 25 1916, Cassidy joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his training at 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury on November 29 1937, as a pupil pilot. After a short induction course at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge from February 19 1938, he was posted to 7 FTS, Peterborough on March 5. With training completed, he then joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge on September 17 1938.

PO 26.5.40 FO 26.5.41 FL 26.5.42

Pilot

64 and 72 Squadrons

PO 10.8.40

He was commissioned on the 26th and went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 27th. After converting to Blenheims, he joined 29 Squadron at Digby on June 16. Carver was attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 16, to convert to Hurricanes. The attachment ceased on the 18th and he was posted to 229 Squadron at Wittering. In an engagement over Maidstone on September 11, Carver damaged two He 111s. His Hurricane, N 2466, was set alight. He baled out and landed near Flimwell, wounded and burned. The aircraft crashed in Goudhurst Road, Horsmonden. He spent four weeks at Rumwood Court Hospital, near Maidstone and was then moved to RAF Hospital, Wendover. Carver rejoined 229 and was with the squadron in 1941. He was with 605 Squadron in 1944 and was awarded the DFC (21.11.44). Released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader, he died in 1996.

Lieutenant (FAA)

British

Case was commissioned and he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 10 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield on the 28th. He flew his first operational sortie on September 3 and his last on the 14th. He moved to 72 Squadron at Biggin Hill about September 15. Case was killed on October 12, when he fell out of formation and crashed in a field off Winehouse Lane at Capel-le-Ferne, near Folkestone, in Spitfire P 9338. He was buried in St Nicholas’ churchyard, near his home in Withycombe, where a small display in the church now commemorates him. Case was 24 years old. An Army officer’s wife wrote to Case’s mother saying that she had witnessed his aircraft being attacked by Bf 109s immediately before he crashed. Other witnesses gave similar accounts.

KENNETH MALTBY CARVER PO

Pilot

Case, the son of a farmer at Withycombe, Somerset, was educated locally and became an apprentice with Metropolitan Vickers in Manchester. He enlisted in the class ‘F’ Reserve, as an Airman u/t Pilot, about June 1936 (700690). He was called to full-time service on September 1 1939 and completed his flying training at 2 FTS, Brize Norton, on No 47 Course, which ran from Aprl 28 to August 3 1940.

PO (RAFVR) 16.8.38 PO 7.9.39 FO 16.2.40 FL 16.2.41

79730

PO

crew unhurt. Cassidy was posted to 249 Squadron at North Weald on October 21 1940. In May 1941 the squadron was ordered to the Middle East. It sailed in the carrier HMS Furious on the 12th. At Gibraltar the Hurricanes were transferred to HMS Ark Royal, which then sailed into the Mediterranean. On May 21 249 flew off to Malta and, once there, it was told that it would be staying. On July 9 Cassidy shot a SM 79 down into the sea. At the end of the month he was posted, as a Flight Commander, to the Malta Night Fighter Unit, then about to be formed. On the night of August 5/6 he destroyed a Fiat BR 20, on the 26th he shared in damaging two more and on November 9 he damaged another. Cassidy was awarded the DFC (2.1.42) and returned to the UK, becoming a Flight Commander at 61 OTU, Rednal. He was at Rednal until September 1942, when he was posted to 56 OTU, Tealing. In May 1943 Cassidy went to 64 Squadron at Ayr as a supernumerary Squadron Leader. In June he was attached to 16 Squadron at Middle Wallop, as a Fighter Tactics instructor. In July 1943 Cassidy went to 222 Squadron at Hornchurch, again as a supernumerary. After a short spell at the Fighter Leaders’ School at Aston Down in August, he returned to 222 Squadron, as CO. On September 5 he shared in probably destroying a FW 190. Cassidy was posted away in November 1943, to take command of 64 Squadron at Coltishall. On November 23 he shared in the destruction of a Bf 109. In April 1944 he was posted to HQ 13 Group. In November 1944 Cassidy went to HQ RAF Middle East, remaining there until April

804 Squadron

Born on June 8 1916, Carver joined the Navy in 1935 and entered the Royal Naval College, Dartmouth. In the 1930s the RAF supplied pilots for the Fleet Air Arm and occasionally trained Naval pilots. Carver was granted a temporary RAF commission on September 12 1937, as a Flying Officer. He relinquished this commission on July 26 1939. Carver joined 804 Squadron at Hatston on November 30 1939 and was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on March 29 1940. He embarked on the carrier HMS Glorious with a detachment of 804 Squadron Gladiators on April 22 and they transferred to HMS Furious on May 9. The pilots of the detachment ferried 263 Squadron Gladiators from Prestwick to Furious on May 12. The detachment flew off Furious on May 23 and returned to Hatston, where 804 reassembled and was put under Fighter Command control. The Gladiators operated from Hatston on dockyard defence. On September 5 1940 ‘A’ Flight of 804 embarked by air on to Furious, disembarked three days later and returned to Hatston. Carver again embarked on Furious, with one section of ‘A’ Flight, on October 11 1940, for operations against Tromso, Norway. Bad weather prevented flying and the section returned to Hatston on the 19th. On June 29 1942 Carver was given command of 885 Squadron, operating in defence of

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On January 16 1937 he was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose and after completing his training, he joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge on August 7 1937. Cave was still with the squadron in August 1939 and was then ‘B’ Flight Commander. On August 30 he took command of a flight of four experimental AI Blenheim IVs, on attachment to 25 Squadron. He resumed command of ‘B’ Flight on September 4. On January 31 1940 Cave was posted to RAF Halton, as non-effective sick and admitted to hospital there. He joined 600 Squadron at Manston on March 29 1940. He was posted to 242 Squadron at Coltishall on August 11 but flew no operations with it before being posted away on October 3 1940. Late in the war, Cave went into Aircraft Control and when he died in 1962 he was the senior Squadron Leader in the Aircraft Control Branch.

1945, when he was briefly with 92 Squadron in Italy, as a supernumerary, before taking command of 72 Squadron in Austria. After holding a wide range of flying and non-flying appointments, Cassidy retired on June 1 1958, as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. He was awarded the AFC (5.6.52). He died in 1995. APO 19.2.38 PO 29.11.38

FO 29.8.40 FL 29.8.41

SL 1.7.43 SL 1.9.45

LIONEL HARWOOD CASSON 91000

PO

Pilot

British

616 Squadron APO 21.12.36 PO 12.10.37 FO 12.5.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.9.42 FL 1.3.45 SL 1.8.47

Born in Sheffield on January 6 1915, Casson was educated at Birkdale School and the King’s School, Ely. He went to work in the steel industry.

FREDERICK NORMAN CAWSE 80543

He joined 616 Squadron AAF at Doncaster on April 6 1939. He was called for full-time service on August 24, posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on October 7 and after training he rejoined 616 Squadron at Leconfield on April 6 1940. Casson was sent to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on April 28, after which he went to PDC Uxbridge on May 15, from where he was posted to 501 Squadron in France. On his way to Arras, the train was bombed at Amiens and the next day he lost all his kit, when the train was heavily bombed at St Roche junction. He walked to the outskirts of Rouen and met an RAF vehicle going to Cherbourg. From there he got a ship to Southampton. On May 27 Casson joined 79 Squadron at Biggin Hill but managed to get back to 616 at Leconfield on July 7. On August 15 he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88. On the 25th Casson, Pilot Officer T Murray and Pilot Officer J Brewster were loaned to 615 Squadron. On August 30 Casson probably destroyed a He 111 and damaged another and on September 1 he claimed the destruction of a Do 17. The squadron was withdrawn to Kirton-in-Lindsey on the 4th. Casson was scrambled on February 26 1941, with Flying Officer R Marples. They attacked a Ju 88, killing the rear gunner. Casson’s engine began to overheat and the cockpit filled with glycol fumes. He headed for Tangmere but crossing the coast at 1200 feet he feared the aircraft was on fire, so he baled out. The Spitfire, P 7753, crashed at Priors Leas, N of Littlehampton. On May 5 he attacked a Ju 88 at dusk, was hit by return fire and he baled out over Littlehampton. Casson shared in destroying a Bf 109 on June 22, damaged another on the 24th, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 26, probably destroyed another on July 19 and destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another on the 23rd. On this day he was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander. On a sweep over France on August 9 1941 Casson was attacked by a Bf 109 and shot down. He was captured. Wing Commander D R S Bader (qv) was also captured as a result of this engagement and there has been unproven post-war speculation that he was accidentally hit by fire fron Casson’s aircraft. Soon afterwards Casson was awarded the DFC (16.9.41). At some time Casson was held in Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan (PoW No 3725). Released from captivity, Casson was demobilised in the UK on November 12 1945. He went back to work in the steel industry. He rejoined 616 Squadron on May 10 1946, when it was reformed at RAF Finningley, as part of the AAF. He rejoined as a Flying Officer. On October 2 1950 Casson was promoted and took command of 616. He was awarded the AFC (1.6.53) and was released again in November 1954. He died on October 8 2003.

PO Pilot

British

238 Squadron Cawse joined the RAFVR around March 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745188). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 11 FTS, Shawbury, on No 17 Course, which ran from November 20 1939 to June 1 1940.

He was commissioned on June 8 1940 and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, to convert to Hurricanes. Cawse joined 238 Squadron at Middle Wallop on July 7. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on August 8 1940. He was killed on August 11, when he was shot down by a Bf 109 in a combat off Weymouth. His aircraft, Hurricane P3222, crashed into the sea. It was reported in the 238 ORB on December 13 that Cawse’s body had been washed up on the French coast. He was 25 years old and is buried in the Cayeux-sur-Mer Communal Cemetery, France. PO 8.6.40

ARSEN CEBRZYNSKI P 1416

FO

Pilot

Polish

303 Squadron

Born on March 2 1912, Cebrzynski was in the PAF before the war. In September 1939 he was with III/1 Dyon. On the 3rd he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and on the 6th he shared in the destruction of a Ju 87 and a Bf 110. After the fall of Poland he escaped to France and he joined l’Armée de l’Air. In May 1940 he commanded a flight of three Polish pilots in Groupe de Chasse II/6 at Chateauroux, with Bloch MB 152s. On June 5 Cebrzynski destroyed a He 111 and shared another and on the 15th he shared a Hs 126. Cebrzynski arrived in England on July 7 1940 and went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. From there, he joined 303 Squadron at Northolt on August 21. He probably shot down a Do 17 on September 11 but was himself shot down in combat S of London. His Hurricane, V 6665, crashed at Hitchens Farm, Pembury. Cebrzynski was severely injured and died on the 19th. He was buried in Northwood Cemetery, Middlesex. He was awarded the KW & Bar (23.12.40) and a second Bar (31.10.47).

APO (AAF) 23.7.39 APO 24.8.39 PO 6.4.40 FO 3.12.40 FL 3.12.41 FO (AAF) 31.1.47 SL (RAAF) 2.10.50

COLIN EWART PATRICK CASTLE 966825

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

FRANTISEK CHABERA

219 Squadron

115117 Castle joined the RAFVR in September 1939. He remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and after completing his gunnery course, he was on 235 Squadron by March 31 1940, as an AC 2 Air Gunner.

Pilot

British

Czechoslovakian

312 Squadron

In 1930 he was admitted to the Military Aviation Academy at Prostejov. Following graduation in 1932 he was assigned for pilot training on twin-engined aircraft and also to a night fighter course. On completion of this training he was posted, as a pilot, to the 2nd Air Regiment at Olomouc (1932 – 1934) and then to the 4th Air Regiment at Hradec Kralovelove (1934 – 1935). He was then posted to the Military Aviation Academy at Letnany. When the Germans took over Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939, the Czech Air Force was disbanded and Chabera was demobilized. He escaped to Poland, in June 1939, and, with other escaped Czechoslovak airmen sailed from Gdynia to France where he joined l’Armée de l’ Air.

JOHN GEOFFREY CAVE FL

Pilot

Chabera was born on January 5 1912 in Lansberg, Germany.

He was with 219 Squadron at Catterick in June 1940 and served with it in the Battle of Britain. On November 13 1940 Castle and his pilot, Pilot Officer T Birkett, were killed when their Beaufighter crashed in daylight near Edenbridge, cause unknown. At that time Castle was still an Air Gunner. He is buried in Cathcart Cemetery, Renfrewshire.

39271

Sgt

600 and 242 Squadrons

Born in Britain, Cave was educated in Calgary from 1927 to 1932 and worked there in 1934/35. In October 1936 he joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his training on the 12th, as a pupil pilot.

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on No 31 Course, which ran from November 20 1939 to May 19 1940, on which day he was commissioned. Chaffe joined 245 Squadron at Drem on May 21 1940. He was posted to 43 Squadron at Usworth on September 18 but returned to 245 Squadron, then at Aldergrove, on December 20 1940. In late 1941 Chaffe was in Malta, serving with 1435 Flight. He took command of 185 Squadron at Hal Far in February 1942. He was killed on March 22 1942, aged 27. Chaffe is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 2, Column 1.

On September 11 1939 he was posted to CIC Chartres for retraining on French equipment. On December 2, in the rank of Caporel Chef, he was posted as an operational pilot to GC II/5, equipped with Curtiss H-75 aircraft. During the Battle of France, on May 11, he destroyed a He 111 and shared another, on the 14th he shared a Bf 110, on the 24th shared a Bf 109, on June 5 shared another and on the 8th claimed another Bf 109 destroyed and also a Hs 126. His unit, now at Perpignan, moved to Algiers on June 20 and then to Oran. With other Czechoslovak airmen in his unit, he was released from l’Armée de l’Air service on July 2 1940 and he went to Casablanca where he sailed on the Royal Scotsman to Gibraltar. There, he transferred to the David Livingstone and sailed to Britain, arriving in Cardiff on August 4 1940. On arrival he was accepted into the RAFVR (787698). He was at the RAF Czechoslovak Depot, Cosford, when he was posted to 312 Squadron at Duxford on September 5 1940. He was still with the squadron on November 1 1940. He volunteered for night fighters on March 24 1941 and was posted to 96 Squadron equipped with Hurricanes and Defiants. On September 20 he was posted to the Czechoslovak Flight at 68 Squadron, who were equipped with Beaufighters. His next posting was on May 26 1942, to the Czechoslovak Inspectorate General where he remained until August 1 1942 after which he returned to 312 Squadron, now equipped with Spitfires, where he remained until February 1 1944. He was commissioned in the RAFVR in December 1941. In the autumn of 1943 Chabera had volunteered for service in Russia. With 20 other Czechoslovak RAF pilots, he left Britain on February 21 1944, aboard the Riena del Pacifico and sailed via the Mediterranean to Russia. On arrival he flew to the Ivanovo airbase NE of Moscow, for retraining on La-5FN aircraft. On May 3 1944 he was assigned to the 128 Czechoslovak Independent Fighter Squadron, based at Kubinka airbase. Following reorganisation the unit was renamed the 1st Czechoslovak Air Regiment and on October 28 1944 Chabera was appointed its Commander. During his service in Russia, Chabera achieved a Ju88 ‘probable’ on October 18 1944 and destroyed nine trucks, two cars and one tank. At the end of the war Chabera was released from the RAFVR as a Flight Lieutenant and returned to Czechoslovakia. He was posted to Letnany airbase with the rank of Captain and was later promoted to Lieutenant-Major. Following the communist takeover of Czechoslovakia, in February 1948, Chabera was arrested, with two former RAF colleagues, on April 6 1948 at Prague Ruzyne, accused of starting an aircraft in an attempt to escape to Germany. He was sentenced to five years hard labour, the time being served in Bory (1949 – 1950) and Pribram high security prisons and then in the uranium camps of Bytiz, Vojna and Jachymov. He was released in December 1953 and until September 1954 was only permitted to do menial work. In September he found work as an electrician at an electrical plant at Bystfany where he remained until his retirement. Chabera died on October 21 1999 at Litomeric, Czech Republic.

PO 19.5.40 FO 19.5.41

HARRY HUTCHINSON CHALDER 43691

PO

Pilot

British

266 and 41 Squadrons

Chalder joined the RAF on August 26 1935, as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot (580049). His service after the completion of his training is not known but he was with 66 Squadron at Duxford on April 1 1940, when he was commissioned. Chalder was posted to 266 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on April 15 1940. On August 12 the squadron moved temporarily to Eastchurch to carry out possible anti-shipping operations. Early the next morning the Germans attacked Eastchurch, using thirty Do 17s. Severe damage to buildings and hangars was inflicted and six aircraft were destroyed on the ground. Five Do 17s were destroyed. Chalder was injured in the foot by a bomb. On September 15 he went to 41 Squadron at Hornchurch. On the 17th his Spitfire, N 3266, was badly damaged by a Bf 109 off Dover. Chalder was shot down in a combat over Charing on September 28 1940 and baled out, seriously wounded, landing near Garlinge Green. His Spitfire, X 4409, was possibly that which exploded over East Stour Farm, Chilham He was admitted to Chartham Hospital and died there on November 10, aged 25. Chalder is buried in St Nicholas’ Cemetery, Newcastle-upon-Tyne. PO 1.4.40

STANISLAW JOZEF CHALUPA P 1300

PO

Pilot

Polish

302 Squadron

Born in 1915 in Zaraz, in the Kracow region, Chalupa went to the Artillery Reserve Cadet Officers’ School after leaving school.

Sgt 1940 PO 19.12.41 FO 1943

DENNIS FREDERICK CHADWICK 101519

Sgt

Pilot

British

64 Squadron

In January 1936 he moved to the Air Force Flying School at Deblin and was commissioned in 1938. He was with 123 Eskadra of the Pursuit Brigade in September 1939 and on the 3rd he shared in destroying a Bf 110. After the fall of Poland, Chalupa escaped to France, via Romania, and joined l’Armée de l’Air. In May 1940 he was a member of Groupe de Chasse I/2. On the 11th he shared in the probable destruction of two Ju 88s, on June 2 he destroyed a He 111 and on the 8th he destroyed a Ju 87 and shared a second Ju 87 and a Bf 109. After the French collapse, Chalupa escaped to England. He joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield on July 23. He claimed the probable destruction of a Ju 88 and the later damaging of another on August 21. After the latter engagement, Chalupa’s engine began to malfunction and started smoking. He throttled back and began a gliding descent towards base but just failed to reach it. He made a wheels-up landing outside the Leconfield boundary. The aircraft, Hurricane P 3934, was repairable and he was unhurt. Chalupa went to Duxford on September 13 1940, with a 302 Squadron detachment, which flew operationally as part of the Bader Big Wing. On the 15th he claimed a Do 17 destroyed and another probably destroyed. The attachment ceased on the 25th and the detachment rejoined 302. In November 1940 Chalupa was still with 302, then based at Northolt. On the 10th he was posted to RAF Northolt, as non-effective sick. On recovery, he rejoined 302. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (1.2.41). Rested from operations on July 30 1942, Chalupa was posted to the Operations Room of 302, remaining there until June 24 1944, when he went to 16 SFTS, Newton for an instructor’s course on Masters, after which he became an instructor there. On January 30 1945 Chalupa was posted to 3 (O) AFU for No 1 Pilot Navigation Course and he returned to Newton, as a Navigation Instructor.

Chadwick joined the RAFVR in May 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740294). He was called up on September 1 1939 and with training completed, he was posted to 5 B&GS, Jurby on February 10 1940, as a staff pilot. On May 18 Chadwick was attached to 4 (C) Ferry Pilot Pool from 5 B&GS. The attachment ceased on the 20th and he returned to 5 B&GS. He was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield on the 17th. He flew his first sortie on the 19th. On November 11 1940 Chadwick damaged a Bf 109 and on December 5 he made a forced-landing at Faversham, after being attacked by a Bf 109. Commissioned in July 1941, he transferred to the Administrative Branch in 1943 and was released in 1945, as a Squadron Leader. Chadwick died in 1973. PO 17.7.41 FO 17.7.42 FL 17.7.43

RONALD IVOR CHAFFE 79528

PO

Pilot

British

245 and 43 Squadrons

Chaffe, from Bristol, joined the RAFVR in January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742850), and did his pre-war flying training at 2 E&RFTS, Filton. He was called up on September 1 and completed his training at 3 FTS, South Cerney,

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Course, which ended on March 23 1940. On leaving 2 FTS, he probably rejoined 610 for a short spell before going to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on April 28. After he had converted to Hurricanes, he went to PDC Uxbridge on May 15, for allocation to a squadron in France. It would seem that Chandler joined 501 Squadron at Anglure. The squadron was withdrawn from France on June 18 1940, operated from Jersey on the 19th, covering the withdrawal of the BEF, and then re-assembled at Croydon on the 21st. Chandler was posted back to 610 Squadron, then at Gravesend, on June 30. On July 24 Chandler shot down two aircraft S of Dover, a Bf 109 and a Blackburn Skua of the Fleet Air Arm, attacked in error. On July 25 he destroyed a Bf 109, on August 12 he damaged a Bf 109, on the 14th shot down a Bf 109. On the 18th he destroyed a Do 17 and damaged another. On the 29th he damaged another Do 17 and on the 30th he shot down a Bf 109 and probably destroyed a Bf 110. Chandler was awarded the DFM (22.10.40). He was detached from 610 to RAF Acklington on December 14 1940, when the squadron moved from Acklington to Westhampnett, until December 30, when Chandler was posted to 2 CFS, Cranwell. Commissioned in June 1941, he later served with 65 and 615 Squadrons. Chandler was awarded the AFC (2.4.43). He was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant, and recommissioned as a Pilot Officer in the RAFVR Training Branch in June 1946.

On September 25 1946 he was posted away to a Holding Unit, went to 6 RU on November 9 and was released from the PAF on December 30 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He was awarded the KW (31.10.47). Chalupa settled in Canada but later returned to Poland. PO -.7.40 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.9.42

GEORGE PHILIP CHAMBERLAIN 16168

WC

Pilot

British

FIU

Born on August 18 1905, Chamberlain was educated at Denstone College. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1923 and on graduating, he joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge on July 30 1925. On April 14 1927 Chamberlain went to India, joining 5 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Risalpur, flying Bristol Fighters. He returned to the UK in August 1930 and went to the Electrical and Wireless School at Cranwell, for a course. Chamberlain went to Upavon on July 21 1931 as Station Signals Officer, moving on September 26 1932 to the staff of HQ ADGB and a year later to the SHQ Staff at RAF Netheravon. It was back to flying in 1934, with a posting to 17 Squadron at Kenley on March 14, as a Flight Commander. In January 1936 Chamberlain went to RAF Staff College, Andover and a year later was appointed to the Signals Staff at HQ 16 Group, Coastal Command at Lee-on-Solent. He moved to 18 Group, Donibristle, as Officer i/c Signals, on November 7th 1938. In April 1940 Chamberlain was serving on the Night Interception Committee at Air Ministry, which acceded to Dowding’s request for a night unit. Chamberlain was given the job and he formed the Fighter Interception Unit at Tangmere, with Blenheims. He was posted to HQ Coastal Command on July 17 1941, made an OBE (24.9.41), posted on January 4th 1943 to No 1 Radio School, Cranwell and in August 1943 he went on a year’s attachment to the RAAF in Melbourne. Chamberlain retired from the RAF on September 25 1960, as an Air Vice-Marshal CB OBE. He died in November 1995. PO 30.7.25 FO 30.1.27 FL 5.11.30 AVM 1.7.55

SL 1.2.37

PO 26.6.41 FO 26.6.42 FL 26.6.43 PO (RAFVR) 1.6.46

VICTOR RONALD CHAPMAN 754146

PO Pilot

British

ALAN KINGSLEY CHAPPELL 80808

Pilot

Pilot

British

236 Squadron

In December 1937 Chappell joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741187), and began his weekend flying at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham. He was called to full-time service on September 1 1939 and was posted to No 1 ITW, Cambridge on November 10. Chappell moved to 12 FTS, Grantham on December 30 and on completion of the course he went to No 1 (C) OTU at Silloth, to convert to Blenheims. He joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on August 15 1940, a Coastal Command squadron, operating with Fighter Command on long-range fighter and reconnaissance sorties, in Blenheim Mk IVs. Chappell was posted to 413 Squadron at Stranraer on July 7 1941 but he left on August 5. He joined the AACU at Gibraltar on September 14 1941 and was with it until August 28 1942, when he returned to England. On September 12 Chappell joined the staff at 3 School of General Reconnaissance at Squires Gate. He did a Beam Approach course at No 1 BATS, Watchfield in late October and returned to Squires Gate. He was there until June 13 1943, when, in preparation for his second tour of operations, he was posted to 3 (Coastal) OTU at Haverfordwest, to convert to Wellington Mk XIVs. Chappell joined 612 Squadron at Chivenor, to carry out night anti-submarine and antishipping operations. With his tour completed, he left the squadron on February 27 1944 to take a staff job at the Directorate of Accident Prevention at the Air Ministry. Chappell was released from the RAF in November 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1993.

FL 11.7.42

British

PO

Chappell was born on May 23 1914 at Ainsdale, near Southport, Lancashire. He was educated at Marlborough College and pre-war worked for a London advertising agency, doing market research.

HORATIO HERBERT CHANDLER Sgt

264 Squadron

235 Squadron

With training completed, Chamberlain went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 13, to convert to Blenheims, and on August 5 1940 he joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton and served with it in the Battle of Britain. Returning from a dusk patrol over the North Sea on February 14 1941, Chamberlain prepared to land at Bircham Newton. Suddenly the lights were put out because of enemy aircraft. He flew on to the satellite at Langham, 15 miles away, and as he was about to touch down, the lights there went out. The aircraft hit a tree. The navigator was killed and the air gunner slightly injured. Chamberlain was seriously injured and spent the next eight months receiving treatment at Ely and Torquay. In October 1941 he went to a ground job at RAF Langham. On May 11 1942 he was attached to 2 Armament Practice Camp at Thorney Island, on flying duties. He was posted on administrative duties at the Air Ministry on May 1 1943 and remained there until his release from the RAF in 1946. Chamberlain died on September 21 2011.

106245

British

After completing his gunnery training, Chapman joined 264 Squadron in July 1940. On August 28 he was gunner in Defiant L 6957 which had its petrol tank holed during an attack on a He 111 over Folkestone. Chapman and his pilot, Sergeant A J Lauder, returned safely to Hornchurch. Chapman was still with 264 Squadron in November 1940. No further service details traced.

WC 1.3.40 GC 1.3.42 AC 1.7.50

Chamberlain joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754042). He began his flying training at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell. He was called up at the outbreak of war and on October 23 went to No 1 EFTS, Hatfield, remaining there until March 18 1940, when he was posted to 6 FTS, Little Rissington.

PO 13.7.40 FO 11.7.41

Air Gunner

Chapman joined the RAFVR in July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner.

JOSEPH THOMAS RONALD CHAMBERLAIN 81677

Sgt

610 Squadron

Chandler, born in 1917 in Bexhill on-Sea, joined 610 Squadron, AAF on March 10 1936, as an Aircrafthand (810021). In April 1939 he went into a new NCO pilot-training scheme and had already carried out some flying training before being called up on August 24 1939.

PO 2.6.40 FO 2.6.41 FL 2.6.42

Chandler was posted from 610 on October 7 1939 to 2 FTS, Brize Norton, on No 42

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CHARLES GORDON CHAPPELL 40672

FO

Pilot

British

destroyed five Bf 109s, probably six others and shared in the probable destruction of two more. He was awarded the DFC (15.7.41) and he was posted away from 54 Squadron in early October to CFS, for an instructors course, after which he instructed at 9 FTS, 9(P) AFU and 5(P) AFU. In December 1942 Charles went on a refresher course to 52 OTU and in January 1943 he joined 64 Squadron. On March 12 he damaged a FW 190. He moved to 611 Squadron on March 27 1943, as a Flight Commander and on April 22 he was given command of the squadron. On May 4 he damaged a FW 190 and on the 7th he damaged a Bf 109. On the 14th he destroyed a FW 190 and the next day two more. Commandant Mouchotte of 341 Squadron shot down a FW 190 simultaneously with Charles’ second one. Thus the two pilots shared the honour of shooting down Biggin Hill’s 1000th victim and a prize, each getting £90. Charles claimed a FW 190 destroyed on May 17 and another on June 23. On this day his own aircraft was damaged and, after gliding down from 10,000 to 1000 feet, he baled out into the sea and was picked up by an ASR launch. On July 5 Charles damaged a FW 190 and on the 25th he shot down another and damaged a Bf 109. On August 9 1943 Charles was promoted to lead the Middle Wallop Wing. He claimed a FW 190 on August 31, was posted to Portreath on September 16, to command the Wing there, and on the 24th he claimed his final victory, a Bf 110. Charles was awarded a Bar to the DFC (16.7.43), the US Silver Star (20.7.43) and the DSO (29.10.43). He went to staff duties at HQ 10 Group and in April 1944 he transferred to the RCAF. After a lecture tour of Canada, Charles was on the staff of HQ Allied Expeditionary Air Forces. After the war he was repatriated to Canada and stayed in the RCAF. He had a mental breakdown in 1949 and was diagnosed with acute schizophrenia, probably caused by wartime stress. He appeared to have recovered but after suffering a relapse, he was pronounced incurable. He was released from the RCAF in 1951 and spent the rest of his life in the Shaughnessy Veterans’ Hospital in Vancouver. Charles died there on November 5 1986.

65 and 609 Squadrons

Chappell joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his training on March 7 1938, as a pupil pilot. After completing his training, he went to 2 AOS, Acklington on December 17 1938, as a staff pilot. On September 1 1939 he joined 52 Squadron at Alconbury, equipped with Fairey Battles. On the night of November 3 he took off from Benson on a night training exercise and crashed through some trees, injuring himself and the other crew member. Chappell probably volunteered for Fighter Command in August 1940 and on the 5th he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 65 Squadron at Turnhouse on the 19th. He carried out four operational sorties with the squadron, on September 4, 12 and 14 and October 7. It is believed that he moved to 609 Squadron at Middle Wallop on October 9 1940 but there is no mention in the squadron ORB. Chappell was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Squadron Leader. He died on January 25 2006. APO 7.5.38 PO 7.3.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.1.44

DOUGLAS WILLIAM ERNEST CHAPPLE 902225

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

236 Squadron

Chapple, of Plymouth, enlisted in the RAFVR in September 1939. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. After completing his training, he joined 236 Squadron on July 19 1940. He was still with the squadron in November 1940. He was with 7 Squadron at Oakington in 1941. Chapple was killed on a daylight operation to Bremen on June 28. His Stirling, N 6007, was shot down into the North Sea, after a running fight with Bf 109s. Chapple was a Flight Sergeant at the time of his death. He was 24. Chapple is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 35.

PO 15.5.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

GERARD CHARNOCK 1002641

AC2

Radar Operator

British

25 Squadron

WILFRED THOMAS CHARD 746805

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

Charnock joined the RAFVR about June 1940 to train as a Wireless Operator. He probably had done a course in radar before joining 25 Squadron at North Weald in late September.

141 Squadron

Chard joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Aircrew. Called up on September 1, he completed his gunnery training and had joined 141 Squadron at Turnhouse by June 1940.

In the early hours of June 5 1941 Charnock, then a Sergeant, was in a Beaufighter of 25 Squadron, flown by Sergeant H Gigney. They shot down a He 111 over the Wash. It crashed at South Reston, Alford, Lincolnshire. No further service details traced.

Flying with Sergeant G Laurence, he shot down a Ju 88 at night on September 17 1940. It crashed at St Andrews Close, Maidstone. Chard flew sixteen operational sorties during the Battle of Britain. In July 1943 Chard, then a Warrant Officer Radar Operator, was with 219 Squadron in North Africa. He was again crewed with his 1940 pilot, George Laurence (qv), by then a Flight Lieutenant. On the night of July 5/6 1943 they destroyed a Ju 88 over Bizerta, Tunisia, in Beaufighter V 8875. On January 7 1944 they took off from Bizerta on a test flight, with a trainee radar operator aboard. Turning over the airfield boundary, the aircraft’s port wingtip clipped a car and the Beaufighter somersaulted and crashed. Chard and the trainee were thrown clear but Laurence was killed. Chard was released from the RAF, as a Warrant Officer. He died on May 17 1947 and is buried in Sutton Road Cemetery, Southend-on-Sea.

HARRY WALPOLE CHARNOCK 147902

FO

Pilot

Canadian

Pilot

British

64 and 19 Squadrons

Born in 1905, Charnock was educated at Harrow. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1924 and was commissioned in December 1925, joining 32 Squadron at Kenley on the 16th. He was posted to No 1 Squadron at Tangmere on August 18 1930. Charnock was cashiered by order of General Court Martial on December 12 1930 for a low-flying offence. On September 5 1939 he rejoined the RAF. With training completed, he went to 64 Squadron at Church Fenton, as a Sergeant-Pilot (901005). On September 6 1940, on his first operational sortie with the squadron, he crashed in Spitfire K 9903 during a routine patrol. Although the aircraft was written off, he was unhurt. On the 12th Charnock was posted to 19 Squadron at Fowlmere. He scored his first victory on November 5 1940, when he claimed a Bf 109. He claimed Bf 109s destroyed on July 21 and August 7 1941. At the end of his tour with 19 Squadron, he was awarded the DFM (7.4.42). Charnock was posted to 72 Squadron in early August 1942. In November 72 moved to Gibraltar and on the 16th it flew to Algiers and began patrols the next day. Between November 25 and December 18 he claimed a FW 190, four Bf 109s and another Bf 109 probably destroyed. On December 18 he was himself shot down and landed in enemy territory. Charnock bribed an Arab to lead him to the British lines. Once there, he went to a base hospital. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in January 1943, he was awarded the DFC (26.2.43) and rejoined the squadron on March 17 1943. Posted away, Charnock returned to the UK and was posted to 57 OTU, Eshott in November 1943. He was later at 61 OTU, Rednal and he went to AFDU, Wittering in January 1944. He joined 222 Squadron at Funtington in July 1944. Two days after joining the squadron, he was injured in a car accident and did not return to operations until early 1945, when he was posted to 41 Squadron at Volkel, as a Flight Commander.Charnock was released from the RAF on November 24 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. He was awarded the Croix de Guerre and was created a Chevalier of the Order of Leopold II avec Palme by the Belgians. He died on May 24 1974.

EDWARD FRANCIS JOHN CHARLES 36198

Sgt

54 Squadron

The son of an RFC pilot, Charles was born in Coventry, England on February 6 1919. He was taken to Canada as a child and lived in Lashburn, Saskatchewan. In June 1937 he joined a territorial unit, the 16th/22nd Saskatchewan Horse. Charles joined the RCAF, as an Officer Cadet, on January 3 1938 and transferred to the RAF in May 1939. On December 20 he was posted to 81 (Communications) Squadron. When it was disbanded on June 15 1940, Charles joined 2 (Army Cooperation) Squadron. In August Charles volunteered for Fighter Command and on the 21st he was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden, to convert to Spitfires, after which he joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 3. On October 24 1940 Charles baled out of Spitfire P 9558, when the engine malfunctioned. The resultant clouds of black smoke gave him the mistaken impression that the aircraft was on fire. Charles claimed no victories until April 7 1941, when he shot down a Bf 110 E of Manston. In sweeps over France between June 17 and the end of September 1941, Charles

PO 16.12.25 FO 16.6.27 PO 12.1.43 FO 12.7.43 FL 12.1.45

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GEORGE FREDERICK CHATER 34230

SL

Pilot

South African

Airfield (Northolt) and on August 31 he took command of 317 Squadron at Plumetot in France. On January 1 1945 he destroyed a FW 190. At the end of his tour he went back to HQ 131 Airfield and was awarded the VM (5th Class) (25.6.45). Chelmecki was posted on November 9 1945 to the Ferry Pool of the Enemy Aircraft Salvage and Service Unit at Hamburg-Fühlsbuttel, for flying duties. He was released on August 8 1946, returned to Poland in 1948 and died there on March 28 1988.

247 and 3 Squadrons

Chater joined the RAF on a short service commission in September 1934. He completed his flying training at 3 FTS, Grantham and joined 23 Squadron on September 16 1935.

PO 3.5.40 PO 6.8.40 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.9.42

Chater was posted overseas on February 21 1936, to 100 (Torpedo bomber) Squadron at Seletar, Straits Settlements. In late 1939 Chater was a flying instructor at Cranwell. On January 5 1940 a detached section of 152 Squadron Gladiators at Sumburgh was designated ‘Fighter Flight, RAF Sumburgh’. Chater joined it on January 9, as CO. Three days later the Flight was transferred from Fighter Command to 18 Group, Coastal Command. Chater was still commanding, when the Flight rejoined Fighter Command on July 21 1940. On July 28 the unit moved south to Roborough and on August 1 he reformed 247 Squadron from the Gladiators of the Sumburgh Fighter Flight, for the defence of the Plymouth dockyards. Chater was awarded the DFC (13.9.40) and on September 23 he took command of 3 Squadron at Turnhouse. He was posted away to RAF Castletown on November 12 1940, as non-effective sick. He commanded 30 Squadron in Ceylon from February to May 1942 and a Hurricane Wing in Burma in 1944. Chater was released from the RAF in 1949, as a Group Captain. APO 14.9.34 PO 8.3.35 FO 8.11.36

FL 8.11.38

PETER CHESTERS 84960

Sgt

Pilot

British

Pilot

British

74 Squadron

Chesters, of Thorpe Bay, Essex, was born on April 29 1919 and was at Haileybury College from 1933 to 1935. He represented the College in shooting at Bisley in 1935. After leaving he joined his father in the silk trade in the City of London. He spoke German and he visited Germany on business. Chesters became interested in flying and he joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot, around June 1939 (754228). Called up on September 1, he did his elementary training at 5 EFTS, Hanworth. He moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand, on No 49 Course, which ran from June 16 to September 6 1940. Chesters was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 7 and, after converting to Spitfires, he joined 74 Squadron at Coltishall on September 28 1940 and flew his first operational sortie on October 2. He shot down a Bf 109 on October 27, which made a forced-landing at Penshurst Aerodrome, Kent. Chesters landed there, supervised the capture of the pilot and then took off with trophies he had acquired from the 109. On November 27 Chesters’ aircraft was damaged in combat over Chatham and he baled out, wounded in the leg. He stayed at the controls long enough to steer his stricken aircraft away from a village. Chesters was admitted to Orpington Hospital. His Spitfire, P 7306, crashed at Blacketts Marshes, near Sittingbourne. On February 5 1941 Chesters shared in the destruction of a Do 215 near Dover. He shot down a Bf 109 of JG 51 over Kent on April 10. So delighted was he with his success, that he attempted a victory roll over 74’s base at Manston, misjudged his height and crashed on the parade ground. Chesters was killed instantly. He is buried in Sutton Road Cemetery, Southend-on-Sea.

SL 1.9.40 WC 1.12.41

JOHN COWPER CHEETHAM 46208

PO

23 Squadron

Cheetham, of Dunbar, East Lothian, joined the RAF as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot (580031) on August 26 1935. He was with 23 Squadron at Wittering on January 1 1940 but there is no record of him making any flights until April 5, when he was pilot on an anti-aircraft co-operation flight. Cheetham’s next recorded flight was an operational sortie on July 24 1940, on which he acted as Air Gunner, with 23’s CO, Squadron Leader L C Bicknell flying the Blenheim. After this sortie there is no further mention of Cheetham in the squadron ORB. He was with 9 Ferry Pilot Pool in late 1940 and on December 29 made a forced-landing at Squires Gate in poor visibility, in Spitfire L 1045. Commissioned in July 1941, Cheetham was killed on July 15 1944, as a Flight Lieutenant, aged 35. His unit at the time of his death is not known. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 201.

PO 7.9.40

CHARLES ARTHUR COPELAND CHETHAM 82946

PO

Pilot

British

1 Squadron

PO 26.7.41 FO 26.7.42 FL 26.7.43 Chetham, from Newton Abbot, joined the RAFVR in September 1938 as an Airman u/t Pilot (742089) and did his pre-war training at 7 E&RFTS, Desford. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill, on No 17 Course, which ran from December 9 1939 to May 25 1940.

MARIAN CHELMECKI 76690

PO

Pilot

Polish

56 and 17 Squadrons

Born on August 2 1916, Chelmecki was in the PAF before the war. He graduated from the Air Force Flying School, Deblin and was posted to 122 Fighter Eskadra of the 2nd Air Regiment. In 1939 he was transferred to Deblin, as an instructor.

Chetham was commissioned on May 26 and went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 27th. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to RAF Hendon for onward posting to France. Chetham probably joined No 1 Squadron in France before it was withdrawn to Northolt on June 18 and damaged another the next day. Chetham went on leave on December 11 1940, pending a posting from No 1 Squadron to overseas. In early 1941 Chetham was with 33 Squadron in Greece. He was killed there on April 15, aged 21. He is buried in Phaleron War Cemetery, Athens.

After Poland collapsed, he escaped to Romania, then to France and arrived in England in early 1940. He was commissioned in the RAFVR on May 3 and transferred to the Polish Air Force on August 6. In mid-July 1940 Chelmecki was posted from the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool to 15 EFTS, Carlisle. On August 6 1940 he went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 56 Squadron at North Weald on the 31st, moving to 17 Squadron at Debden on September 11. Chelmecki was detached to 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on the 17th and rejoined 17 on September 24. He destroyed a Ju 87 on November 8, shared in damaging a Do 17 on the 9th and destroyed a Bf 109 on the 11th. Chelmecki was posted from 17 to RAF Debden on November 27, as non-effective sick. He was awarded the KW (1.2.41) and a Bar (1.4.41). He went to 55 OTU, Annan on March 20 1941 and for the next eight months instructed at 55, 56 and 61 OTUs. On November 5 1941 Chelmecki joined 308 Squadron at Northolt and moved to 302 at Heston on June 13 1942, as a Flight Commander. Chelmecki was appointed Deputy Squadron Commander on January 14 1943. From May 17 to September 21 1943, he served on the staff of 2 Polish Wing at Hutton Cranswick, after which he joined 317 Squadron at Northolt.He was awarded a second Bar to the KW (7.7.43). In January 1944 Chelmecki was posted to HQ 18 Sector, on July 12 he went to HQ 131

PO 26.5.40

JOSEPH ARMAND JACQUES CHEVRIER C 856

PO

Pilot

Canadian

1 and 1 (RCAF) Squadrons

Born in St Lambert, Province of Quebec on October 7 1917, Chevrier joined the RCAF on July 4 1938. He was with 110 (RCAF) Squadron when it arrived in England from Canada on February 25 1940. Chevrier was posted to No 1(RCAF) Squadron at Northolt on September 14 1940 and went on attachment to 5 OTU, Aston Down on the same day. He converted to Hurricanes and was then attached to No 1 Squadron, RAF, at Wittering on October 3, making his first flight next day.

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the carrier HMS Illustrious and he commanded 1843 Squadron on the escort carrier HMS Arbiter in the Far East. In late 1945 Chilton commanded the School of Naval Air Warfare and 748 Squadron at St Merryn. He became senior naval test pilot in the UK and spent two years on test duties with the US Navy. He commanded 806 Squadron, became CFI at the Fighter School at Lossiemouth, commanded the Flying Wing at Bedford and was Commandant of the Empire Test Pilots’ School at Boscombe Down from 1968 until he retired on April 5 1971, as a Captain. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.59). Chilton died in September 1995.

He rejoined No 1(RCAF) Squadron at Prestwick on October 24 1940. Chevrier was repatriated to Canada on January 9 1941. He was appointed ADC to His Excellency the Governor-General, the Earl of Athlone on August 8 and served in that capacity until March 31 1942. Posted to 130 (RCAF) Squadron, Chevrier was reported ‘Missing, presumed Killed’ in a flying accident on July 6 1942, as a Squadron Leader, aged 25. He is remembered on the Ottawa Memorial, Panel 1, Column 4.

CLIFFORD ARCHIBALD CHEW 116439

Sgt

Pilot

British

17 Squadron Midshipman 13.3.39 Acting Sub-Lt 13.7.40 Sub-Lt 15.2.42 Lt 13.1.43 Lt-Cdr 13.1.51 Cdr 30.6.56 Capt 31.12.65

From Eton Wick, Berkshire, Chew joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748557). He was called up on September 1 and completed his flying training. He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 1 1940, converted to Hurricanes and then joined 17 Squadron at Debden on July 15. On August 21 he claimed a share in the destruction of a Ju 88 and on September 5 shared in destroying a He 111, with Flying Officer M B Czernin of 17. Chew was posted away to CFS, Upavon on September 22 1940, for an instructors’ course. He was commissioned from Warrant Officer in January 1942. One day in June 1944 Chew was captain of an aircraft on an instructional flight, making night landings. On the fifth one the starboard engine began to give trouble. Chew took over the controls and managed to climb to 800 feet, a very difficult feat on one engine. Excessive vibration made it impossible to maintain height. As the aircraft came down, the starboard engine caught fire and the propellor flew off. The undercarriage mechanism did not work. Chew decided to land on the runway, to avoid crashing into other aircraft. He brought the crippled and burning aircraft down. The whole fuselage was blazing by this time and only Chew’s promptitude and presence of mind enabled the pupils to jump clear without injury. For this action he was awarded the AFC (25.8.44). Chew was killed on March 24 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant with 512 Squadron, a Dakota unit. He is buried in Hotton War Cemetery, Belgium.

DOUGLAS JAMES CHIPPING

PO 2.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 2.1.44

RODERICK AENEAS CHISHOLM

67603

Pilot

British

Pilot

British

604 Squadron

He joined 604 Squadron, AAF in 1930 and was commissioned in March 1931.Whilst on his final ‘Wings’ test on July 28 1931, with the AOC, Air Commodore McNeece Foster, as his passenger, Chisholm was involved in a landing accident at Tangmere, in Wapiti K1379. The aircraft was wrecked but both men escaped serious injury. In January 1935 Chisholm went on to the Reserve and in 1936 he went to Persia, to work in the oilfields there. At the outbreak of war Chisholm was passed as fit for flying at HQ RAF Iraq. He left Teheran in January 1940 and on February 23 was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney for a refresher course and for conversion to twins. Chisholm rejoined 604 Squadron at Northolt on June 22. On the 30th he was detached to 11 Group, Uxbridge for short R/T procedure and elementary attacks courses. He returned to 604 on July 4 and served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. In 1941, with Sergeant W G Ripley as his Radar Operator, he had a run of success. On March 13 they destroyed two He 111s at night, on April 9 another two and Chisholm was awarded the DFC (11.4.41). On the night of April 11 they shot down a He 111 and a probable Ju 88, on the 29th a He 111 and on July 8 destroyed a He 111 and damaged another. At the end of his tour in January 1942, Chisholm was posted as a controller to Middle Wallop and was awarded a Bar to the DFC (10.2.42). He had been a Flight Commander in 604 since August 1941. Chisholm went to HQ 81 Group in March 1942, to organise the training of night fighter crews at OTUs but in June he was posted to RAF Ford, to command the Fighter Interception Unit. During the night of July 2/3 1943 Chisholm destroyed a Ju 88 over the Channel S of Bognor. Over Mannheim on the night of November 18/19 1943 he shot down a Bf 110. In late 1943 Chisholm went to a staff job at 100 Group Bomber Command, to develop radio counter-measures and fighter support for the bombers raiding Germany by night. He was awarded the DSO (14.1.44), credited with nine enemy aircraft destroyed. Chisholm was stationed in Germany immediately after the war, with an RAF interrogation team, to investigate German radio and radar measures taken against Allied bombers. He was made a CBE (1.1.46) and had received two Mentions in Despatches (1.1.45 and 14.6.45). He was released from the RAF on January 1 1946, as an Air Commodore. Chisholm returned to the oil industry. He retired in 1970 and took up carpentry and

PO 9.12.27 FO 9.6.29 FL 1.2.34 SL 1.12.37 WC 1.9.40

PATRICK CHARLES STUART CHILTON British

FO

Chisholm was born at Bridge of Allan, Scotland on November 23 1911 and educated at Ampleforth College and the Imperial College of Science and Technology.

145 Squadron

He was posted to 444 (Fleet Spotter-Reconnaissance) Squadron at Lee-on-Solent on January 29 1930, moving to the School of Naval Co-operation in March 1932. At the end of the year Chignell went to SHQ RAF Calshot. He was posted to RAF Seletar, in the Straits Settlements, on March 25 1937 and was put in charge of a detachment at Trincomalee. Chignell returned to Britain and went to SHQ Biggin Hill on July 10 1938. He commanded 32 Squadron there from October 30 1939 to May 6 1940. He arrived at Dyce on May 12, to take up the post of Fighter Sector Commander and Senior Controller in the Dyce Ops Room. Whilst at Dyce, Chignell flew two operational sorties with ‘B’ Flight of 145 Squadron, on September 2nd and 6th, thus qualifying him for the Battle of Britain clasp. On October 6, he was posted to HQ 14 Group. Posted to the Far East on December 26 1940, Chignell was killed at Kallang on February 14 1942, as a Wing Commander, aged 36. In recognition of gallant conduct in operations against the Japanese in early 1942, Chignell received a Mention in Despatches (1.10.46). His name is on the Singapore Memorial in Kranji War Cemetery.

Pilot

222 Squadron

PO 27.5.41 FO 27.5.42 FL 27.5.43

Chignell joined the RAF on a short service commission in December 1927. He went to 2 FTS, Digby on January 14 1928 and after completing his training, he joined 12 Squadron at Andover on December 15.

Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

British

He flew his first operational sortie on July 2. Chipping probably destroyed a Bf 109 on September 4 and probably another on the 5th. On this day his aircraft was hit by antiaircraft fire over Dover and he baled out, wounded. His Spitfire, X 4057, crashed near Pineham. Chipping was commissioned in May 1941. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.46) and released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. Chipping later went to live in the USA and died there in 1985.

ROBERT ALEXANDER CHIGNELL WC

Pilot

Chipping joined the RAFVR in February 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742935). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 222 Squadron at Hornchurch in late June 1940.

90233 24171

Sgt

804 Squadron

Born on February 15 1921, Chilton was educated at Blundell’s School. He joined the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on March 13 1939, rated as a Midshipman (A). He did his elementary flying at 20 E&RFTS and moved on to No 1 FTS, Leuchars, on No 5 Course, which ran from September 4 1939 to January 13 1940. Chilton joined 804 Squadron at Hatston from Fighter School on June 11, to fly Gladiators on dockyard defence. On October 19 1940 he was posted to 771 Squadron. Later Chilton served with 805 Squadron in the Western Desert, with 881 Squadron on

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Free French Air Force. On August 18 Choron moved to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. He converted to Spitfires and joined 64 Squadron at Biggin Hill on September 11. Choron probably destroyed a He 115 on November 1 1940 and shared in destroying a Do 17 on December 21. In July 1941 Choron was posted to 609 Squadron at Gravesend, under the command of Squadron Leader M L Robinson. On August 7 he damaged a Bf 109 and on the 9th he probably destroyed a Bf 109. Flying as Robinson’s No 2 on August 27, Choron destroyed a Bf 109 off Dunkirk and on September 17 another. On October 21 1941, W of Boulogne, in Spitfire W 3236, Choron was attacked and damaged by Bf 109s of JG 26. He managed to cross the Channel and made a crash-landing at Rye. On October 27 he probably destroyed a FW 190 and damaged another. Then, at the end of his tour, Choron was awarded the C de G (Fr) and posted to 53 OTU, Heston, as an instructor. Choron returned to operations on April 8 1942, when he joined 340 (French) Squadron at Redhill. Two days later the squadron went on its first offensive sweep, as part of the Tangmere Wing. Wing Commander M L Robinson was leading the Wing at the head of 340 Squadron, with Choron as his No 2. The Wing was attacked by a large force of FW 190s. Neither Choron nor Robinson returned to base and both were reported ‘Missing’. A report on Paris radio said that Choron had been picked up dead in his dinghy but this was never confirmed. His rank at the time of his death was Lieutenant de Reserve. Choron was later appointed a Compagnon de la Liberation.

furniture-making. His book on his wartime experiences, Cover of Darkness, was published in 1953. He died on December 7 1994. PO (AAF0) 16.3.31 FO (AAF) 16.9.32 FO (AAFRO) 24.1.35 FO 23.2.40 Fl 22.6.41 SL 16.12.42 WC 3.6.44 GC 14.12.44

TADEUSZ PAWEL CHLOPIK 76691

FL

Pilot

Polish

302 Squadron Chlopik was born on June 18 1908 and served in the prewar PAF. He arrived in England in early 1940 and was commissioned into the RAFVR on May 3.

He went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum from the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool on July 5 1940, for testing and grading. Chlopik moved on to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 14th and, after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 302 Squadron on August 3. He transferred to the Polish Air Force on August 6. On September 13 Chlopik went to Duxford with a 302 detachment, to operate with the Bader Big Wing. On the 15th he destroyed a Do 17 and then shared another but on this day he was shot down in a surprise attack by enemy aircraft over North Weald. He baled out but is believed to have injured himself doing so and he fell dead at Rawreth. His Hurricane, P 2954, crashed at Marks Farm, Woodham Road, Battlesbridge. Chlopik is buried in Sutton Road Cemetery, Southend-on-Sea. He was awarded the KW and Bar (1.2.41).

GEORGE PATTERSON CHRISTIE 40081

FO

Pilot

Canadian

242 and 66 Squadrons

Christie was born on October 1 1917 at Westmount, Quebec and joined the RAF on a short service commission in June 1937. He began his training at 4 E&RFTS, Brough on July 12 1937, as a pupil pilot.

PO 3.5.40 He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on September 7 for a short induction course and moved on to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on the 20th. With the course completed on May 5 1938, he joined 43 Squadron at Henlow next day. On April 10 1940 he shared in the destruction of a He 111 over Scapa Flow, in Hurricane L 1608. Christie was posted away to 212 Squadron at Heston on April 20 1940, flying unarmed high-altitude Spitfires on photo-reconnaissance sorties. On June 13, although unarmed, he forced a Fiat BR 20 down into the Mediterranean, whilst on a photographic sortie over Southern France. The squadron was disbanded on June 18 and was absorbed by the Photographic Development Unit and he stayed with the PDU, which continued to operate from Heston. For his photographic work, Christie was awarded the DFC (21.8.40). He joined 242 Squadron at Coltishall on July 22, probably destroyed a He 111 on August 1 and shot down a Bf 110 on the 30th. Posted to 66 Squadron at Kenley on September 3, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant and ‘B’ Flight Commander, Christie destroyed a Bf 109 on the 4th and probably another. His Spitfire, X 4502, was damaged in the combat and he made a forced-landing near Canterbury, slightly wounded, with splinters in left arm and right leg. Next day Christie was shot down by Bf 109s, wounded, and was admitted to the Royal Naval Hospital, Gillingham. He was declared non-effective sick and posted to RAF Kenley. He rejoined 66 Squadron on November 12, as a Flying Officer. On the 14th he claimed a Ju 87 destroyed, another probably destroyed and a Bf 109 damaged. On the 26th and 27th he shot down Bf 109s and on December 20 he flew one of two Spitfires in an attack on the airfield at Le Touquet, one of the RAF’s first offensive actions. On the 29th Christie damaged a Do 17. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (14.1.41), being then credited with at least seven enemy aircraft destroyed. On January 3 1941 Christie was posted to Ferry Command. He returned to Canada and in March he joined Ferry Command at Dorval. He was killed near Pointe Claire, Quebec on July 5 1942, in a flying accident in a Hudson, as a Squadron Leader. Christie is buried in Lake View Memorial Garden, Pointe Claire.

JOHN ALLISON GEORGE CHOMLEY 84668

PO

Pilot

Rhodesian

257 Squadron

Chomley, who was born on June 6 1920 in Southern Rhodesia, entered RAF College, Cranwell on April 27 1939, as a flight cadet. As he had not completed his course at the outbreak of war, he was enlisted in the RAFVR on September 7 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (581693). For some reason, unknown, he was withdrawn from RAF College FTS, Cranwell in early 1940, before graduation. Chomley did complete his flying training and he was commissioned in the RAFVR on June 8 1940, instead of receiving a Permanent Commission. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 8 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 257 Squadron at Northolt on July 7. He crashed on landing at Hendon on the 23rd, in Hurricane P 3641, but was unhurt. Chomley was reported ‘Missing’ after a combat with enemy aircraft off Portsmouth on August 12 1940. His Hurricane is believed to have crashed into the sea. He was 20 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 7. PO 8.6.40

MAURICE PHILIPE CESAR CHORON 30501

Adjudant

Pilot

French

64 Squadron

APO 5.9.37 PO 12.7.38 FO 12.2.40 FL 12.2.41 SL 1.3.42

Choron was born on November 7 1911 at Bethisy-St Pierre. He made his first flight at the new L’Oise Aero Club at Crepy-en-Valois and was the first pupil to be instructed there.

JOHN McBEAN CHRISTIE 741898 Sgt

After gaining his pilot’s licence, Choron did his military service with l’Armée de l’Air and was released to the Reserve as a trained pilot. He decided upon a career in aviation and became an instructor at several aero clubs in Eastern France and Corsica. As Chief Pilot of the club at Bastia, Choron met and became a friend of Michael Lister Robinson (qv), on leave from the RAF. They were to serve together in 1941. Choron was called up at the outbreak of war. After the French collapse he left France, from Port Vendres on June 24 1940, catching a passing British convoy and he embarked on the SS Apapa, bound for Britain. He landed on July 7 and after a stay at RAF St Athan, he was posted to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum on July 29, for testing and grading. He moved to Odiham on August 10 and flew Tiger Moths and Hectors with No 1 Fighter Training Squadron of the

Pilot British

152 Squadron

Christie joined the RAFVR in July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1 1939 and did his elementary flying training at 12 EFTS, Wick. He moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand, on No 48 Course, which ran from May 27 to August 10 1940. Christie arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 10th and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 152 Squadron at Warmwell on August 22. On September 26 Christie was shot down by Bf 109s in combat over the Channel, off Swanage. His Spitfire, K 9882, crashed into the sea and he was picked up dead. Christie was 22 and is buried in Arkleston Cemetery, Renfrew.

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BEVERLEY EVANS CHRISTMAS C 925

FO

Pilot

Canadian

After a further operation, Chrystall was fitted with an artificial limb. He was awarded the DFC (15.1.45), transferred to the RNZAF on July 1 1945, returned to New Zealand in June 1946 and he was released on July 20. Chrystall became a successful farmer. On July 28 1961 he and a contractor were at the bottom of a ten feet deep hole when the sides caved in. Both men were killed.

1 (RCAF) Squadron

Christmas, of Rouville, Quebec, joined the RCAF on January 1 1939 and he was with No 1 (RCAF) Squadron, when it arrived in the UK on June 20 1940. Christmas was detached to RAF Uxbridge on July 5 for a short R/T procedure course. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on August 31, damaged a Do 17 on September 1, damaged a He 111 on the 11th, shared a Ju 88 on the 27th and claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on October 5. Christmas was posted away to 110 (RCAF) Squadron later in October. An Army Cooperation unit, 110 was renumbered 400 (RCAF) Squadron on March 1 1941. Some time later Christmas joined 403 (RCAF) Squadron, remaining with it until September 12 1941, when he was repatriated to Canada. Back in Canada, Christmas commanded 133 (RCAF) Squadron at Boundary Bay, flying Kittyhawks on West Coast defence. In March 1942 he was posted to the Middle East, where he briefly joined 14 (SAAF) Squadron, as a supernumerary Squadron Leader, before moving to 260 Squadron. Christmas did little flying and in August 1942 he returned to Canada, where he was appointed to the command of the Fighter Wing at Patricia Bay, British Columbia. In November 1942 Christmas went to RCAF Staff College in Toronto, where he remained until late June 1944. He commanded No 4 Wing (No 1 Air Division, Europe) from April 1955 to July 1957. He retired on January 1973, as a Colonel, and died on May 17 1988 at Victoria, British Columbia.

PO 3.8.41 FO 3.8.42 FL 3.8.43

EDWARD WALTER GILLES CHURCHES 39900

Wop/AG

New Zealander

New Zealander

74 Squadron

At the age of 15 Churches made his first application for an RNZAF short service commission. When he was finally successful, the scheme lapsed before he was called. He went to the Ground Training School at Weraroa on October 26 1939, moved on to 2 EFTS, Taieri in November and on January 16 1940 he was posted to 2 FTS, Woodbourne. Training completed, he was commissioned and then sailed for the UK in the RMS Rangitata on June 7. Churches first went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on arrival, then to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 4, to convert to Spitfires. He joined 74 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on August 21 1940. Churches collided with Sergeant W M Skinner on August 30. Skinner baled out and got down safely and Churches managed to land his aircraft. On September 11 he probably destroyed a He 111, on the 14th he damaged a Ju 88, on the 24th he damaged a Do 17, on October 29 he probably destroyed another He 111, on November 1 shot down a Bf 109 and on the 14th he destroyed another. Churches shared in the destruction of a Bf 109 on February 22 1941 and shot down a Bf 109 on March 18. He was shot down and killed on April 19 1941 by a Bf 109 of JG 53, in Spitfire P 7381. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 63.

COLIN CHRYSTALL Sgt

Pilot

One of the youngest participants in the Battle of Britain, Churches was born in Auckland on July 17 1921. Educated at Onehunga Primary and Auckland Grammar Schools, he went to work as a telegraph messenger and postman.

FO 26.10.39

46538

PO

235 Squadron

Chrystall was born at Foxton on November 21 1916 and educated at Foxton High School. Afterwards he went farming with his father. Unsuccessful in his attempts to obtain an RAF short service commission, Chrystall sailed for England in the RMS Rangitata on April 7 1938. In July he joined the RAF, as an Airman u/t Wireless Operator (614569), and passed out in April 1939. He remustered as an Airman u/t Wireless Operator (Air) on May 1.Training completed, he was posted to 23 Squadron at Wittering and flew his first operation on September 201939. Chrystall then remustered as an Airman u/t Wireless Operator /Air Gunner and went to No 1 Air Armament School, Manby, for a gunnery course, on October 7 and passed out with the rank of LAC. He returned to 23 Squadron and began North Sea patrols. On November 29 his Blenheim had engine failure and the crew baled out. The aircraft, L 1452, crashed at Owlet Plantation, East Stockwith, near Gainsborough. In March 1940 Chrystall applied for pilot training, had a selection board in May and was accepted for training at some future date. In late May he joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton and was promoted to Sergeant. The squadron flew patrols over Dunkirk and operated in support of Fighter Command during the Battle of Britain. When Chrystall was posted away for pilot training on May 10 1941, he had flown 133 operational sorties, involving 450 flying hours. After completing ITW, Chrystall went to 9 EFTS, Ansty, where he was commissioned in August and received a Mention in Despatches (24.9.41) for services with 235 Squadron. He was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose on November 1. Chrystall completed the course on April 15 1942 and then went to 59 OTU, Crosbyon-Eden, to convert to Spitfires. He joined 485 (NZ) Squadron in June 1942 and flew his first operational sortie, as a pilot, on July 3. He destroyed a FW 190 over Dieppe on August 19. In mid-September 1942 Chrystall was posted away for service in the Middle East, arriving at El Ballah for a course on Hurricanes on November 23, after which he joined 123 Squadron at Mehrabad, Persia. In April 1943 the squadron returned to Egypt. In July Chrystall went to 322 Wing Training Flight at Sorman and on August 10 he flew a Spitfire to Lentini, Sicily, to join 243 Squadron at Pachino. In February 1944 he was posted to 206 Group, as a test pilot, but soon rejoined 243, then in Egypt. In April 1944 it moved to Corsica and then to the Italian mainland. On June 6 1944 Chrystall was leading his section in a low-level attack on enemy transport E of Cencina. His propeller was damaged by flak and he made a forced-landing behind enemy lines. With the help of peasants, he avoided capture for two weeks. On his way to a pick-up point on the coast, Chrystall was skirting a German gun emplacement when he stepped on a mine and lost the lower half of his right leg. German soldiers treated him kindly and after hospital treatment, he was sent to Stalag XIIID in Germany. He was repatriated to the UK in September 1944.

PO 28.5.40

WALTER MYERS CHURCHILL 90241

SL

Pilot

British

605 Squadron Churchill was born in Amsterdam on November 24 1907 and was a Cambridge University BA. He joined 605 Squadron, AAF in 1931 and he was commissioned in January 1932.

He was granted an extension of service in the AAF on January 11 1937 and then transferred to Class ‘A’ of the AAF Reserve of Officers on January 11 1939. He was recalled to fulltime service with 605 on August 24 1939. Churchill was posted from 605 to 3 Squadron at Croydon on October 24 1939, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. On May 10 1940 the squadron was attached at short notice to 63 Wing in France and Churchill was given command of the squadron when the CO was killed. He shared in the destruction of a Hs 126 on May 12, shared a He 111 on the 13th, destroyed three Ju 87s and possibly a fourth on the 14th and shot down a Bf 109 and possibly a second on the 15th. After ten days of fighting, 3 Squadron was withdrawn to Kenley. Churchill was awarded the DSO and the DFC (31.5.40). On June 18 he rejoined 605 Squadron, then at Drem, as Commanding Officer. On September 11 1940 Churchill suffered a flesh wound in one arm and was nonoperational until the 25th. He was posted away on September 29 1940, to form 71 (Eagle) Squadron at Church Fenton. In late 1940 Churchill was suffering from sinus trouble. On January 23 1941 he handed over command of 71 Squadron and came off flying. He later commanded RAF Valley. By July 1942 Churchill was again fit for flying and he was posted to command RAF Ta Kali, Malta. He flew a Spitfire off the aircraft carrier HMS Furious on August 11 1942 and landed on Malta. He planned the first offensive sweeps over Sicily and led the first one on August 23 1942. Four days later, leading the second one, his Spitfire crashed in flames after being hit by flak and Churchill was killed, aged 35, as a Group Captain. He is buried in Syracuse War Cemetery. His portrait was done by Eric Kennington and Cuthbert Orde. PO (AAF) 11.1.32 FO (AAF) 11.7.33 FL 11.1.37 SL 1.6.40 WC 1.12.41

89

FL (AAFRO) 11.1.39

FL 24.8.39

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EVZEN CIZEK 85921

PO

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

He joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on August 22. On the 26th 219 formed a temporary Training Flight and Clandillon trained with it until it was disbanded on September 14. He was declared operational on that day. He attended an AI course at Debden and rejoined 219 on December 6 1940. In the evening of March 13 1941 Clandillon and his radar operator, Sergeant C W Dodge, were on patrol in a Beaufighter. They shot down a He 111 that was raiding Southampton. It crashed at Smokehall Farm, Shipley, Sussex. Clandillon was commissioned in March 1942 and was killed on February 18 1943, as a Flying Officer. The unit he was serving with at the time of his death is not known. He was 28 and is buried in Littlehampton Cemetery, Sussex.

1 Squadron

Cizek was born in Slexska on December 10 1904. Following graduation from High School he enlisted in the Czech Army in 1922 at the Army Academy at Hranice from where he graduated in 1924. He was then assigned to the Infantry School at Milovice. On graduation he served in several infantry regiments until, in 1928, he transferred to the newly formed Czechoslovak Air Force. Initially he flew as an observer but, in 1932, he was assigned to the Military Aviation School, at Prostejov, for fighter pilot training after which he was posted to the 1st Air Regiment at Prague-Kbely. In 1934 he was appointed Commander of the Regiment’s 43rd Fighter Squadron and, on March 31 1937, with the rank of Staff Captain, he was appointed Commander of the 44th Fighter Squadron, which was later redesignated the 32nd Fighter Squadron. When the Germans took over Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939, the Czech Air Force was disbanded and Cizek was demobilized. He escaped to Poland in June 1939. On July 31 1939, he boarded the Chroby at Gdynia which took him to France. Cizek was commissioned in l’Armée de l’Air as a Lieutenant and was posted to CIC at Chartres for retraining on to French equipment. On December 2 1939, he was posted to GCIII/3 as an operational pilot. At this time GCIII/3 was equipped with MS-406 aircraft but later re-equipped with Dewoitine D-520s. He destroyed a Bf 109 on the May 11 1940, shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on the 14th and a Do 17 and a Hs 126 on the 19th and on June 16 he destroyed another. Due to the imminent French capitulation, GCIII/3 evacuated to North Africa. L’Armee de l’Air released its Czechoslovak airmen so that they could be evacuated to England. As he was the senior Czechoslovak airman of the group, Cizek acted as their liaison officer in Casablanca during their evacuation, however, due to contracting pleurisy, his own departure was delayed until August 13, when he sailed on the Nereida, bound for Lisbon, Portugal. On arrival in Lisbon he boarded the last civilian flight to depart for England, landing at Hendon on August 17. Following recovery from his illness, Cizek was commissioned in the RAFVR on August 20 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge from the RAF Czechoslovak Depot, Cosford, on September 28, to convert to Hurricanes. On October 5 he crashed in Hurricane N2341, after engine failure. He was unhurt. This training was completed on October 14 1940 and Cizek joined No 1 Squadron at Wittering. On the 29th he crashed on landing after a combat with a Do 17. On December 12 1940 he was promoted to Squadron Leader and given command of 312 Squadron, at Speke, as joint CO with Squadron Leader F H Tyson. In April 1941 Tyson was posted away and Cizek took sole command. He was now aged 37 and still suffering from the effects of the pleurisy he had contracted in North Africa. He was posted to the Czechoslovak Inspectorate General, in London, on May 27 1941 for an administrative role. On November 26 1942, Cizek was serving as a Group Captain with the Inspectorate of the Czech Air Force when he was required to go, as Czechoslovak Liaison Officer for RAF Fighter Command, to Llanwit to attend the funeral of Sgt Frantisek Remes who had been killed in a training accident with 53 OTU. With Squadron Leader Josef Jaske (qv) at the controls the pair flew in a Foster-Wickner Warferry aircraft, ES947 in poor visibility. Over the port of Cardiff, the aircraft hit a barrage balloon cable and crashed into the harbour. Cizek was killed and Jaske suffered a broken spine. Cizek is buried in Grave 28 B1 in the Czechoslovak section at Brookwood Military Cemetery, Surrey.

PO 2.3.42 FO 1.10.42

COLIN ANTHONY GORDON CLARK 42192

Pilot

British

South African

FIU

With training completed, he joined 266 Squadron at Sutton Bridge on December 10. Clark was posted away to the Fighter Interception Unit at Tangmere on June 24 1940. On the 26th Clark was detached to 5 OTU, Aston Down, for Blenheim training. He returned to FIU next day. He was appointed Acting Flying Officer on September 8 1940. On October 13 Clark was flying Blenheim L 6805, operating as a target aircraft for an AI-equipped Boston. Due to an error in the use of the fuel cocks, he experienced engine failure and made a crashlanding near Lancing College. The aircraft was written off but he was unhurt. On January 16 1941 Clark attacked a He 111, without result. On May 16 he shot down a Ju 88. He was posted away from FIU on September 22 1941 and joined 263 Squadron at Charmy Down. Clark was killed on October 30 1941, as a Flight Lieutenant with 137 Squadron. Newlyformed and equipped with Whirlwinds, the squadron flew its first operational sortie on October 24. Clark was lost when he went into the sea whilst on an operational flight. He was 28. He is buried in St Michael’s churchyard, Geldeston, Norfolk. APO 24.6.39 PO 9.12.39 FO 9.12.40

DAVID de BRASSEY CLARK 90086

SL

Pilot

British

600 Squadron

Clark joined 600 Squadron, AAF in 1935 and was commissioned in May. On January 15 1939 he was made ‘A’ Flight Commander. He was embodied for full-time service on August 24 1939 and took command of the squadron on May 10 1940, when the CO, Squadron Leader Wells, was reported ‘Missing’. On that day Clark led ‘A’ Flight on a daylight attack on Middlekerck-Zeebrugge-Flushing, during which he shared in the destruction of a He 111 on the ground. Clark was posted from 600 in September 1940, after being hospitalised with broken foot-bones, following a fall into a trench on the 14th. He relinquished command of 600 Squadron two days later. He was made a CBE (1.1.45) and released from the RAF later in 1945, as a Group Captain.

DAVID LAURENCE CLACKSON FL

Pilot

Clark, from Johannesburg, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his training on May 1 1939. After successfully completing his ab initio course, he went to 8 FTS, Montrose, on No 12 Course, which ran from July 10 to December 9 1939.

PO 20.8.40 SL 12.12.40 WC 1941 GC 27.05.42

90087

PO

600 Squadron

Clackson joined 600 Squadron, AAF at Hendon in 1935 and was embodied for fulltime service on August 24 1939. By June 1940 he was an Acting Flight Lieutenant and ‘B’ Flight Commander in 600 Squadron.

PO (AAF) 27.5.35 WC 1.3.42

He served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain and was posted away on January 8 1941, to form and command 68 Squadron at Catterick, which became operational on April 7, as a night fighter unit. Made an MBE (14.6.45), Clackson was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Wing Commander. He died in 1989.

GODFREY PERCIVAL CLARK 144706

Pilot

British

British

FL 24.8.39

SL 1.9.40

604 Squadron

After the squadron went over to Beaufighters in the later months of 1940, Clark and other air gunners were posted to Bomber Command. Commissioned in March 1943, he was awarded the DFC (13.10.44), serving with 102 Squadron and flying in Halifaxs from Pocklington. Clark was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1995.

JAMES ALBERT CLANDILLON Sgt

Air Gunner

FL (AAF) 15.1.39

Clark joined the RAFVR in November 1939 (906080). He volunteered for aircrew duties and trained as an Air Gunner. He joined 604 Squadron at Middle Wallop on August 16 1940.

PO (AAF) 10.7.35 FO (AAF) 10.1.37 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

117778

Sgt

FO (AAF) 27.11.36

219 Squadron

Clandillon, of Ilford, Essex, joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745726). He was called up on September 1 and after completing his training, he arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 3 1940, to convert to Blenheims.

PO 29.3.43 FO 29.9.43 FL 29.3.45

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HUGH DESMOND CLARK 33382

FO

Pilot

British

1940, which became 5 OTU on the 15th. He converted to Hurricanes and joined 504 Squadron on April 13. He was shot down on September 11, in combat over the Kent coast, in Hurricane P 3770, and reported ‘Missing’. Clarke is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 7. However, an investigation of an aircraft which crashed and burned out S of Rookelands, near Newchurch on Romney Marsh, proved beyond any doubt that it was Hurricane P 3770. Items found confirmed the pilot’s identity as being Pilot Officer A W Clarke and also that he had not left the cockpit. Next-of-kin decided that his remains should be left undisturbed and that a memorial should be erected close to the crash site. This memorial was dedicated on September 11 1986.

213 Squadron

Born on March 30 1919, Clark was at Wellington College from 1933 to 1936 and entered RAF College, Cranwell, as a Flight Cadet, in January 1937 and later became a King’s Cadet. On graduation he was granted a Permanent Commission in December 1938. Clark joined 213 Squadron at Wittering in early 1939. He was detached to the School of Air Navigation at Manston on March 11 1939, for a short navigation course. He was posted from 213 to 85 Squadron in France on May 13 1940. Clark was shot down and wounded on the 16th and after recovery from his wounds, he rejoined 213 Squadron, then at Exeter, on August 19. Clark was wounded in combat over Portland on August 26 and he did not fly again until November 1 1940, when he made a local flight. No further service details have been traced. Clark retired from the RAF on October 1 1960, as a Wing Commander.

APO 19.8.39 PO 1.2.40

GORDON STUART CLARKE 747818

Sgt

Observer

British

248 Squadron

PO 17.12.38 FO 17.6.40 FL 17.6.41 SL 1.7.43 Clarke, of Bedford, joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer. He was called up on September 1, completed his training and joined 248 Squadron at Gosport in May 1940. On the 31st he was sent to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth and he rejoined 248 on June 25.

WILLIAM TERENCE CLARK 126026

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

219 Squadron

On September 28 1940 Clarke was one of the crew of a Blenheim which engaged and damaged a Do 18 over the North Sea. His aircraft was hit by return fire and the pilot, Pilot Officer C C Bennett, and Clarke were slightly wounded. With fuel tanks damaged, Bennett headed rapidly for home. It was heard later that the Do 18 had to land on the sea and was abandoned by its crew before it sank. Clarke, Bennett and Sergeant G B Brash, Wop/AG, failed to return from a reconnaissance operation to the Norwegian coast on October 1. They were reported ‘Missing’. All three are remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 12.

Clark was born in Croydon on April 11 1919. He joined 615 Squadron, AAF at Kenley in March 1938, as an Aircrafthand (819004). He trained and flew as an Air Gunner in Hawker Hectors on Army co-operation duties. Called to full-time service on August 24 1939, Clark remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. He completed his training and joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on July 12 1940. With the advent of the Beaufighter and airborne radar some of the air gunners of 219 were trained on radar with the squadron as Radio Observers. Clark qualified in this category. On the night of April 16/17 1941 Clark flew with 219’s CO, Wing Commander T G Pike, when his own navigator was taken ill. They intercepted and destroyed a Ju 88 and a He 111, in the Guildford area. During the night the night of April 27/28, flying with Flying Officer D O Hobbis, his regular pilot, Clark assisted in the destruction of an unidentified enemy aircraft, on June 1/2 and on June 13/14 they shot down He 111s. Clark was awarded the DFM (8.7.41). In July 1941 he was posted to 1455 Flight, then forming at Tangmere with Turbinlite Havocs. In May 1942 he went to 1451 Flight at Hunsdon on the same duties, locating enemy aircraft by radar in the Havoc, for accompanying fighters to attack and destroy. The scheme was not a success and was eventually abandoned. Commissioned in May 1942 from Warrant Officer, Clark moved to 60 OTU in October 1942, as a Navigation/Radar Instructor. In May 1943 he was posted to 488 (NZ) Squadron at Ayr, as Navigator to the newly-arrived ‘A’ Flight Commander, Squadron Leader D O Hobbis, his original pilot from 219 Squadron and 1455 and 1451 Flights. On December 20 1943 Clark was flying with Pilot Officer D Robinson, when they destroyed a Me 410 over Sussex. At the end of his tour in March 1944, Clark went to North Weald Sector Operations, where he trained as a Controller. Whilst there, he was given leave to visit 488, then at Colerne. He went to dispersal to see Robinson, now a Flying Officer. His navigator was unfit to fly and Clark offered to take his place. On this sortie, a Beach-Head patrol on the night of July 28/29, they destroyed a Ju 188. Clark returned to North Weald next day. He rejoined 488 in August 1944 but two months later went to RAF Honiley Ground Approach School, after which he took No 1 GCA Unit to Prestwick, as second-in-command. Clark was released from the RAF in November 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant.

GORDON THOMAS CLARKE 748034

Sgt

Pilot

British

151 Squadronn

Clarke joined the RAFVR around April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1 and, after completing his training, he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 1 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 151 Squadron at North Weald on July 15 1940. He was shot down by Bf 109s over Ramsgate on August 24. Clarke crashed in Hurricane P3273 at Plumford Farm, Ospringe, wounded, and was admitted to hospital. He returned to the squadron on October 6. He was posted away to CFS on December 30 1940. Awarded the AFC (7.9.45), as a Warrant Officer, Clarke was a Master Pilot in October 1949 and was commissioned in March 1953. He was killed on August 11 1953, when flying Harvard KF329 of No 107 Maintenance Unit, which he abandoned after being unable to recover from a spin near Geneifa, Egypt. He was too low and his parachute failed to open. Clarke is buried in Fayid Military Cemetery. SAC R Jackson was also killed in the accident and is buried in the same cemetery. PO 5.3.53

HENRY REGINALD CLARKE 102587

Sgt

Pilot

British

74, 66 and 610 Squadrons

Clarke joined the RAFVR in Belfast in May/June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754383). He made his first solo at 24 E&RFTS in July. Called up on September 1, he went to 3 ITW, Hastings on October 1, moving on to 4 EFTS, Brough on December 18.

PO 18.5.42 FO 18.11.42 FL 18.5.44

ARTHUR WILLIAM CLARKE 42485

PO

Pilot

British

Clarke was posted to 14 FTS, Kinloss on April 10 1940. With his training completed, he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 10, converted to Spitfires, and joined 74 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on the 26th. He moved on to 66 Squadron at Coltishall on the 28th. It was again a short stay and on September 11 Clarke joined 610 Squadron at Acklington. On September 30 1940 Clarke had an amazing escape from death. During a practice dog-fight he collided head-on with another Spitfire. Their wings hit and Clarke’s propeller probably struck the other aircraft’s wing. His engine became so rough, he throttled back immediately. He trimmed his nose down, opened the hood, undid his harness and let go. After leaving his cockpit, Clarke was probably struck by the tailplane. He passed out and when he came to he was hanging upside down, suspended by one strap, which was fastened, very insecurely, round one leg. Clarke managed to pull himself up and got hold of the rest of the harness but just before reaching the ground he fainted again.

504 Squadron

Clarke was born in Altrincham on December 26 1919. In January 1931 he and his sister went to Cheadle Hulme (Manchester Warehousemen and Clerks’ Orphan) School, their father having died. Clarke became a House Captain and then School Captain in 1937. He left in March 1938, having been awarded the ‘John Rylands’ Gold Watch, and took up a post in the Meteorological Department at the Air Ministry. He left to join the RAF on a short service commission in June 1939. Clarke began his ab initio course at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell on June 26 1939, moving on to 10 FTS, Ternhill on September 9, on No 14 Course. With training completed on January 27 1940, Clarke went to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on March 8

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November 24 1939, Cleaver went to Merville in France on May 17 1940, with ‘A’ Flight of 601, to support 3 Squadron, but the stay was short. On the 18th he shared a Do 17 and on the 19th his Hurricane was struck by debris from a damaged He 111 and Cleaver made a crash-landing S of Lille. The flight returned to Tangmere on May 22. On the 27th, he destroyed two Bf 110s in the Dunkirk area, on July 11 Cleaver claimed a Ju 87 destroyed and a probable He 111and on July 26 a Bf 109 destroyed. On August 11 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and a Bf 110 and on the 13th he probably destroyed a Bf 110, shared another probable and damaged a third. On the 15th Cleaver shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 in a combat over Winchester. He was then himself shot down in the same engagement. His hood was shattered by a cannon shell, Cleaver’s eyes were filled with perspex splinters. He managed to return to Tangmere and was rushed to hospital, where his sight was saved but his operational flying days were over. Cleaver was awarded the DFC (13.9.40). On May 27 1941 Cleaver transferred to the Administrative Branch. In early 1942 he was Ops III at HQ 10 Group. He was released from the RAF in late 1943, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1994.

His only injury was a deep cut on the chin, caused by his helmet being wrenched off as he left the cockpit, and some bruises. His parachute pack must have caught on some part of the cockpit and been pulled off, breaking the harness straps, one of which pulled itself tight round one of Clarke’s legs when the buckle caught in the loop. The parachute must have pulled open when the pack was wrenched off. He did not remember pulling the rip-cord. The other plane went straight into the ground from 14,000 feet, possibly with Flying Officer C H Bacon at the controls. Clarke went to 602 Squadron at Prestwick on December 16 1940, moved to 266 Squadron at Wittering on the 22nd and finally joined 255 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on January 3 1941, initially flying Defiants and later Beaufighters. Commissioned in August 1941, he stayed with 255 until December 1942, finishing up in North Africa from mid-November. With his tour completed, Clarke returned to the UK. He became a test pilot and was posted to 23 MU, Aldergrove on April 18 1943, where he remained until released from the RAF on May 2 1947, as a Flight Lieutenant. Clarke died on July 26 2010. PO 2.8.41 FO 2.8.42 FL 2.8.43

RAYMOND WALKER CLARKE 70849

FO

Pilot

British

PO (AAF) 8.4.37 FO (AAF) 8.10.38 FO 24.11.39 FL 24.11.40

SL 1.3.42

79 and 238 Squadrons

IAN CHARLES COOPER CLENSHAW

Clarke began training with the RAFO on January 17 1938, as a pupil pilot and was granted an RAFO commission in March 1938. He relinquished this on being given an RAF short service commission in January 1939.

745067

Sgt

Pilot

British

253 Squadron

Joined the RAFVR in February 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot, and made his first flight in a Tiger Moth on February 19 at 34 E&RFTS, Rochford.

On completion of his training, he was posted to 226 Squadron at Harwell, equipped with Battles. The squadron flew to France at the outbreak of war, as part of the AASF. Clarke was posted back to the UK on September 14 1939, to go to HQ 6 Group. He returned to France on November 29 1939, this time joining 88 Squadron at Mourmelon. After suffering heavy losses, the squadron was withdrawn to Driffield on June 14 1940. In August Clarke volunteered for Fighter Command. Posted to 79 Squadron at Acklington on August 18, he moved on to 238 Squadron at Chilbolton on October 3. He was posted away on October 19, with instructions to report to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, for duty with 261 Squadron in Malta. In mid-November Clarke sailed in the aircraft carrier HMS Argus from Gibraltar, which was carrying Hurricanes for Malta. Clarke was one of six pilots who flew off on November 16 1940 in the second flight of Hurricanes, led by an FAA Skua. A series of mishaps saw the Hurricanes run out of fuel and fall, one by one, into the sea, with the loss of all six pilots. Clarke is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 5.

Called up on September 1 1939, Clenshaw went to 3 FTS, South Cerney on November 20 1939, on No 31 Course, which ended on May 25 1940. In early June 1940 Clenshaw was with 253 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey. On the 7th he crashed in Hurricane N 2436 and was slightly burned. On July 10, flying in bad visibility on a dawn patrol, he lost control and was killed when he crashed near the Humber coast, in Hurricane P 3359. Clenshaw was 22. He was the first Fighter Command aircrew casualty in the Battle of Britain. He is buried in St Mary’s churchyard extension, Kelvedon, Essex. A memorial plaque was unveiled on July 10 2000, the 60th anniversary of his death, at Clenshaw’s former home in Shaftesbury Avenue, Southend.

RUPERT FRANCIS HENRY CLERKE APO (RAFO) 26.3.38 PO 17.1.39 FO 3.9.40

36108

RONALD NEVILLE CLARKE

Clerke was born on April 13 1916 and educated at Eton. He went on to Magdalene College, Cambridge, where he read Mechanical Sciences. Whilst there, he was a member of the University Air Squadron.

29063

SL

Pilot

British

235 Squadron Clarke joined the RAF in April 1930 with a short service commission. He went to 3 FTS, Grantham on April 26. With his training completed, he joined the School of Naval Cooperation, at Lee-on-Solent on February 24 1933.

FO 13.10.31 FL 13.10.35

SL 1.10.38

GORDON NEIL SPENCER CLEAVER 90135

FO

Pilot

British

Pilot

British

32 and 79 Squadrons

In October 1937 Clerke was granted a Permanent Commission in the RAF, as a Univeristy Entrant. He was posted to 5 FTS Sealand on October 25 and with training completed, he joined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill in June 1938. Clerke was posted to 79 Squadron at Acklington on July 25 1940, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. He shared in the destruction of a He 111 off Sunderland on August 9. He shared in the destruction of a probable Do 17 and a confirmed Bf 110 on the 15th, destroyed a He 59 and probably a Bf 109 on the 28th, probably destroyed a Ju 88 on September 6 and shared in shooting down one He 111 and probably another on the 27th. Clerke was posted to No 1 PRU at Heston on December 11 1940 and was still with it at Benson on July 13 1941, when the first Mosquito, W 4051, arrived. On September 17 he flew the first Mosquito operational sortie, to photograph Brest and the Spanish-French frontier. In October he demonstrated the Mosquito to the King and Queen at Watton, in mock combat with a Spitfire. On the 15th Clerke made a record-breaking flight from Wick to Benson in a Mosquito in 1hr 32 minutes and on November 4 he made one of the first Mosquito flights overseas, making the trip to Malta in 4 hrs 45 minutes, using a camera as he crossed Italy. In early 1942 Clerke was posted to 157 Squadron at Castle Camps, as a Flight Commander. On September 30 he had the first Mosquito day combat when he shot down a Ju 88 thirty miles off the Dutch coast. Clerke was given command of 125 Squadron at Fairwood Common in December 1942, as an Acting Wing Commander. He destroyed a Do 217 on February 17 1943 and a Ju 88 on June 13, both at night. Awarded the DFC (23.7.43), he was then credited with four enemy aircraft destroyed and three shared. Clerke was posted from 125 in October 1943. He commanded the Bomber Support Development Unit from its formation in April 1944. On July 4 he flew the unit’s first operational sortie, with Flight Lieutenant J R Wheldon. He commanded RAF Manston from September 1945 to October 1946 and he retired on August 9 1965, as a Group Captain. Clerke died in 1988.

Clarke joined 217 (General Reconnaissance) Squadron at Tangmere on March 28 1937. In May 1940 Clarke took command of 235 Squadron, with one flight at Thorney Island and the other at Bircham Newton. He led the squadron during its secondment to Fighter Command. Clarke was awarded the DFC (17.1.41). He changed his name to Neville-Clarke in early 1941. He was killed on March 4 1941, when a Hudson of 224 Squadron crashed at Loch Bradan, Ayrshire, on a flight to Aldergrove. Neville-Clarke was then a Wing Commander, aged 36. He is buried in St Peter’s churchyard, Little Aston, Warwickshire. His portrait was done by Sir William Rothenstein on January 11 1941. Neville-Clarke’s brother, Lieutenant S N Clarke, died on November 21 1940, aged 35. He was serving with the Royal Artillery and the circumstances of his death are unknown. He is remembered on the Dunkirk Memorial. PO 11.4.30

FL

601 Squadron

Cleaver, who was born in Stanmore, Middlesex, was educated at Harrow School. He became a noted skier and skied for Britain in the years before the war. In 1931 he won the Hahnenkame competition at Kitzbuhel, the only time it was ever won by a Briton.

PO 25.10.37 FO 25.4.38 FL 25.4.40 SL 1.3.41 WC 1.9.42 WC 1.1.49 GC 1.1.58

He joined 601 Squadron, AAF in 1937 and was commissioned in April. Mobilised on

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DOUGLAS GERALD CLIFT 41828

FO

Pilot

British

breaking long-distance flights. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.38) for his work at the RAE, testing the effects of barrage balloon cables on aircraft. Recalled to the RAF at the outbreak of war, Clouston was appointed to the Experimental Section at Farnborough to carry on with his testing work. The aircraft at RAE were unarmed and pilots took cover when the air raid sirens sounded. This irked Clouston, never more so than when his brother, Falcon, was killed over Dunkirk. Shortly after his death, Clouston chased a He 111, intending to chew into it with his propeller. The enemy aircraft escaped into cloud and although he flew above and below the cloud as far as the coast, Clouston lost him. His CO was angry and Clouston was grounded, although a few weeks later an order came through for RAE aircraft to be armed and the first pilots to reach aircraft after the warning sounded were to patrol the airfield. Clouston was generally one of the first off. Tiring of uneventful patrols, when the next siren went he took off, circled the airfield and headed for Guildford, where he could see shell-bursts in the sky. Some He 111s, with a Bf 110 escort, were returning from a raid on London. A Bf 110 dived , pulled out at low level and headed for the coast. Clouston gave chase and had almost caught up when a He 111 flew across his path. A long burst from Clouston sent it crashing into a field. He resumed his pursuit of the Bf 110, silenced the rear gunner and set the starboard engine on fire. More bursts exhausted Clouston’s ammunition and he veered away to let a Hurricane finish the job but he too must have been out of ammunition and the Bf 110 limped away across the Channel. Clouston returned to Farnborough and did two victory rolls. Again he was grounded by an irate CO. From October 18 1940 Clouston was attached, at his own request, to 219 Squadron at Redhill, flying Beaufighters at night but without success. He returned to Farnborough on November 17 and in early December he was posted to the Directorate of Armament Development, to work on airborne searchlight equipment. On May 12 1941 he was given command of 1422 Flight at Heston, to test the Helmore 40 KW Light. For this work he was awarded a Bar to the AFC (1.1.42). In late 1942 Clouston began pressing for a transfer to an operational squadron. He was given command of 224 Squadron at Beaulieu on March 19 1943. Equipped with Liberators, the Squadron was on anti submarine duties and for his part in their operations; Clouston was awarded the DFC (1.10.43). With his tour completed, he was posted in late February 1944 to RAF Langham to command and he was awarded the DSO (14.4.44). He received a Mention in Despatches (14.6.45). Granted a Permanent Commission in September 1945, Clouston was seconded for two years to the RNZAF in July 1947. He returned to the UK in 1949 and went for a Senior War Course at The Royal Naval College, Greenwich. In July 1950 Clouston was appointed Commandant of the Empire Test Pilots’ School. He retired from the RAF on April 7 1960, as an Air Commodore CB.

79 Squadron

Clift was born on March 15 1919 and joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio training at 5 E&RFTS on January 23 1939. He completed his training at 11 FTS, Shawbury and arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on October 24 1939. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 79 Squadron at Manston on November 17. On May 10 the squadron went to France. On the 16th Clift destroyed a Fw 189 over Wavre and on the 17th he shared a Do 17. The squadron returned to Biggin Hill on the 20th. Clift destroyed a Bf 110 over Dunkirk on May 27. On August 15 1940 he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed, on the 30th he shared in the destruction of a He 111 and on September 1 he probably destroyed a Bf 110. His final victory with 79 was on March 24 1941, when he probably destroyed a He 111. Clift was posted to CFS, Upavon in July 1941, for an instructors’ course. He later volunteered for the MSFU and served with it until October 1942. He remained on flying duties for the rest of the war, finishing up in South-East Asia with the RIAF. After the war Clift served with 34 Squadron until its disbandment in August 1947. He went later to Germany and Singapore, spent some years at the Royal Radar Establishment at Malvern and after a year spent as Adviser to the Imperial Iranian Air Force, his last posting was to West Drayton on the ‘Linesman’ project. Clift retired on July 2 1974, as a Squadron Leader. APO 1.4.39 PO 23.10.39 FO 23.10.40 FL 10.1.42 FL 10.7.45 FL 10.1.48

JOHN KENNETH GRAHAME CLIFTON 41902

PO

Pilot

British

253 Squadron

Clifton was born in Plymouth on October 20 1918. The family moved to Taunton in 1928 and he was educated at Taunton School. In 1939 Clifton joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course at 11 E&RFTS, Perth on February 6 1939, as a pupil pilot. He moved on to 2 FTS, Brize Norton in June and on completion of the course, he joined the newly-reformed 253 Squadron at Manston on November 6 1939. When ‘A’ Flight of the squadron went to France on May 17 1940, to support the fighter squadrons there, Clifton was with it. He destroyed a Do 17 on the 18th and probably a Bf 109 on the 19th. The flight withdrew to Kirton-in-Lindsey on May 24. On August 31 he claimed the destruction of a He 111. Clifton was shot down and killed the next day, in combat with Do 17s and Bf 110s over Dungeness. His Hurricane, P 5185, crashed into the road at Grave Lane, Staplehurst. Clifton is buried in St John’s churchyard, Staplegrove, Somerset.

APO 10.10.31 APO 10.10.30 PO 10.10.31 WC 1.9.44 GC 1.7.47 AC 1.7.54

39223

Pilot

New Zealander

SL 1.6.41

FO

Pilot

New Zealander

19 Squadron

Clouston was born in Auckland on January 15 1916 and learned to fly privately at Rongotai in 1935. After being provisionally accepted for a short service commission, he sailed for the UK in June 1936. He began his ab inito training on August 31 1936. Clouston was posted to 7 FTS, Peterborough in October and with training completed, he joined 19 Squadron at Duxford in June 1937. He became squadron adjutant in late 1938 and on October 1 1939 he was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant and appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander. On March 11 1939 Clouston was detached from 19 to Sutton Bridge, for an Air Firing Instructors’ course. He returned to his squadron a week later. On May 11 1940 Clouston shared in the destruction of a Ju 88, on the23rd he destroyed a Bf 109, on the 26th two Ju 87s, on the 27th a Do 17 and shared another probable and on June 1 a Bf 109 and another shared. He was awarded the DFC (24.6.40). As part of the Duxford Wing, 19 Squadron took an increasingly active role in August. On the 2nd Clouston damaged a He 111, on the 31st shared a Bf 110, on September 9 destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another, on the 15th destroyed two Bf 110s and a Do 17 and on the 18th a Ju 88. On November 19 1940 Clouston was given command of 258 Squadron, then reforming at Leconfield. On August 22 1941 he was appointed to command 488 Squadron, then being formed at Rongotai, New Zealand. He went out to Singapore, to prepare for the arrival of its pilots and ground staff. They arrived on October 10 and the inexperienced pilots were sent to an OTU at Kluang, to convert to Buffalos. The ground staff, based at Kallang, tried to make serviceable the twenty-one Buffalos left behind by 67 Squadron, which had moved up to Burma. Clouston’s orders were to get the squadron operational as soon as possible but lack of tools and spares, coupled with the aircraft’s poor performance, made 488 a weak opponent for the Japanese. Out-flown and out-manoeuvred, the squadron dwindled in numbers in spite of being strengthened by nine Hurricanes on January 24 1942. A week later its aircraft

ARTHUR EDMUND CLOUSTON SL

FL 3.9.39

WILFRID GREVILLE CLOUSTON

APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39

29162

FO 10.4.32

219 Squadron

Born on April 7 1908 at Motueka, Clouston had an early ambition to go to sea but found that he suffered from apparently incurable sea-sickness. He started a garage and secondhand car business in Westport, which flourished. Inspired by the famed flights of Kingford-Smith, Clouston learned to fly at the Marlborough Aero Club. He sold his business in 1930 and sailed for England. He applied for an RAF short service commission and in the meantime he took a job with the Fairey Aviation Company. After some blood pressure problems, Clouston was accepted by the RAF and began his ab initio flying in early September 1930 and in late October he moved to 3 FTS, South Cerney. With training completed, he joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge on April 7 1931. Clouston was posted to 24(Communications) Squadron at Northolt in early 1934 and when his commission ended in September 1935, Clouston considered returning to New Zealand. However, the Air Ministry offered him an appointment, as a civilian test pilot, at the Royal Aircraft Establishment at Farnborough in October 1935 and he accepted. Clouston made his mark in civil aviation in the years before the war in races and record-

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Clyde was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on September 7 1940. He destroyed a Bf 110 on October 7. He was posted from 601 to HQ 10 Group on December 13 1940. He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Group Captain, and returned to Mexico. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde.

evacuated to Sumatra and in mid-February those that remained were handed over to 605 Squadron and 488 ceased to exist. Clouston was posted to HQ RAF Singapore on January 23 and he was captured when the Japanese occupied the city. Freed in September 1945, he returned to the UK and was granted a Permanent Commission. He held a number of commands and appointments before retiring on March 20 1957, as a Wing Commander. After his return to New Zealand, Clouston took up farming in Hawke’s Bay. The privations he suffered as a prisoner of the Japanese almost certainly contributed to the deterioration of his health in the late 1970s. In May 1980 he was admitted to hospital in Waipukurau following a fall. He appeared to be making a good recovery but died suddenly on May 24. APO 31.8.36 PO 30.6.37 FO 30.1.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.6.44

PO (AAF) 30.7.35 FO (AAF) 14.4.37 SL 21.11.41 WC 1.1.44

PO

Pilot

British

FO 8.9.39

FL 8.9.40

JAMES PATRICK COATES Lieutenant (RN)

Pilot

British

808 Squadron

Joined the Royal Navy in 1931. Coates was commissioned in the Engineer Branch in 1934. He was attached to the Fleet Air Arm on October 9 1939.

WC 1.7.50

ARTHUR VICTOR CLOWES 44780

FO (AAFRO) 11.2.38

Coates did his elementary flying training at 24 EFTS, Sydenham. On December 11 1939 he moved to 7 FTS, Peterborough, on No 7 (FAA) Course, which ended on May 27 1940. He joined 808 Squadron at Castletown on July 11 1940, flying Fulmars on dockyard defence. Coates was killed on November 26 1940, serving with the carrier HMS Ark Royal in the Mediterranean. He undertook an air test in a Fulmar of 808 Squadron and stalled and crashed into the sea while landing-in. The aircraft sank in 35 seconds. Coates was reported missing, presumed drowned. His name appears on the Fleet Air Arm Memorial, Lee-onSolent, Bay 1.

1 Squadron

Clowes was born in New Sawley, Derbyshire and educated at Long Eaton Council Elementary School. He joined the RAF in January 1929, as an Aircraft Apprentice (563046), and passed out in December 1931, as a Metal Rigger. He later applied for pilot-training and was selected. He completed his training and passed out as a Sergeant-Pilot.

Midshipman 1.1.32(E) Sub-Lt 1.12.34 Lt 1.2.37 He was serving with No 1 Squadron at Tangmere at the outbreak of war. The squadron was immediately sent to France. On November 23 1939, whilst sharing in the destruction of a He 111, Clowes’ Hurricane was struck by a French Curtiss Hawk 75A, losing one of his elevators and most of the rudder. He managed to make a successful landing back at Vassincourt. He was promoted to Flight Sergeant on April 1 1940. On March 29 1940 Clowes destroyed two Bf 110s, on May 14 a Bf 109 and a Ju 87, on the 15th a Bf 110, on the 23rd he shared a He 111, on June 4 he destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 14th he shot down a He 111. The squadron was withdrawn to Tangmere on the 18th and was fully operational again by the end of July. Clowes received a Mention in Despatches (11.7.40). He claimed a He 111 and a Ju 88 destroyed on August 16, a Bf 110 and a He 111 damaged on the 30th, two Do 17s and a Bf 110 probably destroyed on the 31st, a Bf 110 shot down on September 7 and a Do 17 shared on October 24. Awarded the DFM (20.8.40) for his work in France, Clowes was commissioned in September. He was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant and given command of ‘A’ Flight on October 10. He led No 1’s first offensive sortie on January 1 1941, strafing German installations between Calais and Boulogne with two other pilots. Clowes was posted to 53 OTU, Heston on April 29 1941 and was awarded the DFC (13.5.41). He commanded 79 Squadron at Baginton from December 1941 to February 1942 and 601 Squadron in the Western Desert from August 21 to November 22 1942. In May 1943 Clowes did a short refresher course at No 1 METS at El Ballah before taking command of 94 Squadron at El Gamil. He relinquished his command in September 1943 after being accidentally blinded in one eye and taken off operational flying. Granted a Permanent Commission in the Secretarial Branch in September 1945, Clowes later went to RAF Staff College. He died of cancer of the liver on December 7 1949, whilst still serving. Clowes is buried in Brampton, Cambridgeshire.

DONALD GORDON COBDEN 41552

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

74 Squadron

Born in Christchurch on August 11 1914, Cobden was educated at Christchurch Boys’ High School from 1927 to 1931. He was a fine rugby player and played for the All Blacks against the Springboks in 1937. He went to England in late 1937 and in early 1938 he was playing for the Catford Bridge Club. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio training on August 29 1938. After two weeks at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, he was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on January 28 1939. With training completed, Cobden joined 3 Squadron on September 2 1939, moved to 615 Squadron at Croydon on the 8th and on October 6 he was posted to 74 Squadron at Hornchurch. The squadron began patrols over France and Belgium on May 10 1940. On the 24th Cobden destroyed a Do 17, on the 26th shared a probable Hs 126 and on the 27th he probably destroyed a Do 17. Officially the first day of the Battle of Britain, July 10 saw 74 Squadron sent to protect a convoy in the Dover area. In the engagement which followed, Cobden got a probable Bf 109 and damaged a Do 17. On the 24th he shared in the destruction of a Do 17 off Dover. On August 11 74 took off to patrol convoy ‘Booty’, twelve miles E of Clacton. In the combat between the Spitfires and forty Bf 110s, Cobden was shot down and killed. It was his twenty-sixth birthday. His body was recovered by the Germans and he is buried in Ostende Community Cemetery, Belgium.

PO 25.9.40 FO 3.2.41 FL 10.12.41 SL 1.9.45

APO 13.1.39 PO 13.11.39

WILLIAM PANCOAST CLYDE

ARTHUR CHARLES COCHRANE

90154

42915

FL

Pilot

British

601 Squadron Clyde was born in Sevenoaks and went to Eton College and Oxford University. He was a stockbroker for a time, an assistant to the Governor of the Bahamas and worked for Johnson and Johnson. He skied for Britain. He joined 601 Squadron AAF in 1935 and went on to the Reserve of Officers in February 1938. He rejoined 601 Squadron in early September 1939.

PO

Pilot

Canadian

257 Squadron

Cochrane was born in Vernon, British Columbia on April 27 1919 and was educated at Vernon High School. He began an ab initio course at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble on May 1 1939, as a pupil pilot and a candidate for a short service commission. With training completed at 8 FTS, Montrose and 14 FTS, Kinloss, Cochrane joined 263 Squadron at Filton on April 13 1940. He did not go to Norway with the squadron on April 20. He was posted from RAF Filton on May 20 and joined 257 Squadron at Hendon on the 23rd, where it was being reformed after returning from France. The squadron became operational on July 1 and moved to Northolt. On August 8 Cochrane claimed a Bf 109 destroyed, on the 12th he damaged a He 111, on the 18th he probably destroyed a Do 17 and damaged another, on the 31st shot down a Bf 110, on September 7 he claimed a Do 17 destroyed and on the 15th he destroyed a Do 17 and shared a He 111.

Clyde went to France on May 17 1940, with ‘A’ Flight of 601, but the stay was a short one. On May 19 he destroyed a He 111. The flight returned to Tangmere on the 22nd. On the 27th Clyde claimed two Bf 110s destroyed in the Gravelines/Dunkirk area. He was awarded the DFC (31.5.40). On June 6 Clyde claimed a Do 17, on the 7th he destroyed a Bf 110, on July 7 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17, on August 13 he claimed three Bf 110s destroyed, a Ju 88 probably destroyed and a Bf 110 damaged, on the 15th a probable Ju 88 and another shared, on the 16th a Ju 87 destroyed and another damaged and on the 31st a Do 17 destroyed.

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The 804 detachment flew off Furious on May 23 to Hatston, where the squadron reassembled and was put under Fighter Command control. The squadron served on dockyard defence under RAF command for a time during the Battle of Britain. Cockburn was mainly engaged with testing the Brewster Buffalo, from its arrival on July 24 1940 until September 5, when he embarked by air on HMS Furious, with ‘A’ Flight of 804 Squadron. The flight disembarked on the 8th and returned to Hatston. On June 1 1941 Cockburn took command of 881 Squadron and in 1942 he was Commander (Flying) on HMS Argus. In 1943 he held the same appointment on HMS Stalker, which was part of Force V in the assault on Salerno. He led 26 Seafires of the Naval Fighter Wing to the airfield at Paestum on September 9 1943, to operate from there until the RAF squadrons arrived in Sicily. The Wing then moved to Asa to operate alongside 324 Wing of the RAF, which it did for six days before returning to its own ships. Cockburn was awarded the DSC (23.5.44) for his part in the action. From December 1944 Cockburn commanded the Royal Naval Air Station at Puttalam, Ceylon. In 1955 he was Naval Attaché, Rio and he retired in 1960, as a Captain.

On September 15 Cochrane was badly injured in a car accident and he was posted away to RAF Debden on the 16th, as non-effective sick. He spent some months in hospital. Cochrane joined 87 Squadron at Charmy Down in August 1942, as a Flight Commander. He went to North Africa with the squadron in November 1942. On January 22 1943 Cochrane was scrambled from Djidelli in the early morning. Although it was still dark, he found and shot down a SM 79 into the sea. Awarded the DFC (30.3.43), Cochrane failed to return from a patrol on March 31 1943 and was reported ‘Missing’. He was 24 years old and is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 6, Column 1. APO 24.6.39 PO 10.4.40 FO 10.4.41 FL 10.4.42

JOHN REYNOLDS COCK 40674

FO

Pilot

Australian

87 Squadron

Midshipman 15.9.26 Sub-Lt 28.4.30 Lt 1.3.31 FO 18.1.31 FL 1.7.35 Lt-Cdr 1.3.39 Cdr 31.12.46 Cdr 31.12.50

Born in Renmark, South Australia on March 3 1918, Cock was educated at Renmark High School, Prince Alfred College, Adelaide and Roseworth Agricultural College. He learned to fly privately and went to England in early 1938 and joined the RAF on a short service commission in March.

RICHARD COCKBURN COCKBURN Lieutenant (FAA)

He began his ab initio flying on March 7 1938, as a pupil pilot. He completed his training at 6 FTS, Little Rissington, after which he joined 87 Squadron at Debden from 6 FTS on December 17 1938. Cock went to France with the squadron at the outbreak of war. On April 10 1940 Cock destroyed a He 111 off Le Touquet. On May 10 he shared a He 111 and damaged two Do 17s, on the 12th destroyed a He 111, on the 13th destroyed a Bf 109, on the 16th probably destroyed a Ju 88, on the 18th destroyed a Ju 87 and damaged another and on the 19th he shared a Hs 126. The squadron was withdrawn to Debden on the 24th, moving to Church Fenton a few days later, to refit. On July 5 1940, 87 Squadron moved to Exeter. Soon after midnight on the 26th Cock shot down a He 111, which crashed at Smeatharpe, near Honiton. On August 11 he shot down a Ju 88 and a Bf 109 and probably shot down a Bf 110 and another Ju 88. In this engagement Cock’s Hurricane, V 7233, was hit by a Bf 109 and he baled out, slightly wounded. He landed in the sea off Portland Bill, swam ashore at Chesil Beach and was admitted to hospital. Cock rejoined 87 on September 11 1940. On the 26th he claimed a Ju 88 destroyed and a Bf 109 damaged, on the 30th a Ju 88 destroyed and probably a Bf 109 and on October 10 he claimed another probable Bf 109. After his engine cut out on patrol on October 24, Cock was unable to avoid colliding with Pilot Officer D T Jay. Cock managed to make a forced-landing but Jay was killed, attempting to bale out. Cock suffered shock in this incident and was posted to RAF Exeter on November 24, (w.e.f. October 24), as non-effective sick. He rejoined 87 Squadron on December 3 1940. Awarded the DFC (25.10.40), Cock was posted away from 87 to 2 CFS on December 8, for an instructors’ course. In September 1941 he was instructing at 9 FTS, Hullavington. On July 15 1942 Cock was posted to 453 Sqaudron, recently reformed at Drem, as a Flight Commander. Cock left the squadron on August 30, for a course as a pilot gunnery instructor. After a short attachment to 222 Squadron at Ayr in November, he returned to Australia, where he was attached to the Spitfire Wing at Darwin, as a supernumerary. Cock later went to the Gunnery School at Mildura and lectured at various units. In April 1944 he returned to the UK and did a tour with 3 Squadron in France, flying Tempests, after which he went back to England. Cock was released from the RAF in February 1948, as a Squadron Leader. Later for a time he was the Secretary of what was then the Australian Division of the Battle of Britain Fighter Association He returned to the UK, to be present when the wreckage of Hurricane, V 7233, in which he had been shot down on August 11 1940, was salvaged from the sea on August 30 1983. For a time Cock organized an Australian branch of the Battle of Britain Fighter Association. He died in Australia on August 20 1988.

British

808 Squadron

Cockburn learned to fly at the Lympne Flying Club in 1937. He took part in air races and made his last flight as a civilian on August 28 1939. He volunteered for the RNVR on the day war was declared. After training he instructed at Lee-on-Solent until late August 1940. He joined 808 Squadron at Castletown on August 28 flying Fulmars on dockyard defence. On October 22 1940 he embarked with the squadron on HMS Ark Royal. He was awarded the DSO (25.11.41), for an action in which he was flying one of two aircraft from Ark Royal that forced twelve enemy aircraft to turn away from a Malta bound convoy. Two of the enemy machines were destroyed and others damaged. Both FAA aircraft were shot down. Cockburn was rescued from the sea by an Australian destroyer. On May 1 1942 Cockburn was appointed to HMS Daedalus and commanded 734 (Engine Handling Unit) Squadron at Worthy Down from February 14 1944 to December 5 1945. Cockburn was released from the Royal Navy in January 1946, as a Lieutenant Commander. He had flown 18 aircraft types but never flew again. Cockburn lived in Kent and died on December 8 2013, aged 99. He was a cousin of J C Cockburn (qv) and also of Wing Commander R A B Learoyd, VC. Sub-Lt 3.10.39 Lt 3.10.40

JOHN COGGINS 44458

PO

Pilot

British

235 Squadron

Coggins, of Nacton, Suffolk, went to Nacton Voluntary School. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice, in September 1929 (563631) and passed out on August 19 1932 as a Fitter, Aero Engines. He later applied for pilot training and became a Sergeant-Pilot. Coggins served in Palestine in the 1930s and was awarded the DFM (22.11.38) and Bar (14.4.39) for gallant and distinguished services there. He joined 235 Squadron on June 2 1940 and was commissioned in August. In September an aircraft carrying a full load of bombs crashed among other aircraft and burst into flames. Coggins, Flying Officer J H Laughlin and another officer immediately ran to these aircraft, started the engines and taxied them away. During this time two of the bombs exploded. Three aircraft were taken to safety without damage and a fourth sustained only minor damage. The courage of Coggins and Laughlin was recognised with an MBE each (21.1.41). Coggins would never receive his. On December 16 1940 he was captain of Blenheim Z 5754, on a minesweeper escort operation. He and his crew, Pilot Officer N A Sadler, observer, and Sergeant P R Prosser, air gunner, were lost when the aircraft crashed into the sea, cause unknown. Coggins was 27 years old. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 7.

JOHN CLAYTON COCKBURN Pilot

British

Cockburn was born on June 14 1914 and educated at Wellington College from 1928 to 1932. He then went to the Royal Military College, Sandhurst and was commissioned in the Highland Light Infantry in February 1934. He subsequently took a course at the Small Arms School, Hythe. Cockburn did not find Army life congenial and resigned from the Army in 1936.

APO 7.4.38 PO 7.3.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.1.44 FL 1.12.42

Lieutenant-Commander (FAA)

Pilot

804 Squadron

Joined the Navy in 1926 and attached to the RAF in January 1931, when he received a temporary commission in the RAF, as a Flying Officer, on attachment. He became a Flight Lieutenant in July 1935 and relinquished his RAF commission on July 26 1939.

PO 12.8.40

JOHN HUNTER COGHLAN 37719

Cockburn commanded 718 (Catapult) Squadron from March 29 1939 until December 9 1939. He took command of 804 Squadron on December 16. On the 28th he collided with another aircraft whilst flying in Gladiator N5504. He baled out, unhurt. He embarked on the carrier HMS Glorious on April 22 1940, with a detachment of 804, which transferred to HMS Furious on May 9. From the 12th the 804 pilots were engaged in ferrying 263 Squadron’s Gladiators to Furious for service in Norway.

FO

Pilot British

56 Squadron

Coghlan, of Southsea, was born in Shanghai and joined the RAF in January 1936 on a short service commission and he began his elementary flying on February 3, as a pupil pilot. He went to 7 FTS, Peterborough on April 18 and with his training completed, he joined No 1 Squadron at Tangmere on October 25.

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Cole flew on his first operational sortie on the 6th. He was still with 236 in November 1940. No further service details traced.

When 72 Squadron was reformed at Church Fenton in 1937, Coghlan joined it but in March 1938 he returned to No 1. After the outbreak of war, he went to 56 Squadron at North Weald. In mid-May 1940 ‘A’ Flight of 56 was operating from Lille by day and returning to North Weald at night. Coghlan destroyed a Bf 109 and shared in the probable destruction of a He 111 on the 18th and damaged a He 111 on the 19th. On May 23 he took command of ‘A’ Flight, shared a He 111 on the 27th and damaged two Ju 88s on the 29th. The squadron withdrew to Digby on May 31 for a rest. Coghlan was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on June 1. The squadron returned to North Weald on June 5. He claimed a Do 17 destroyed on July 3, possibly destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged two Bf 109s on the 10th and probably destroyed a Ju 87 and a Bf 109 on the 13th. On this day his Hurricane, N2402, was damaged in an attack by Oberleutnant Fšzš of 4/JG 51, whilst engaging Ju 87s of II/StG 1 over the Channel, off Calais. Coghlan was slightly wounded. He was awarded the DFC (30.7.40) and posted to the Central Landing School, RAF on August 7, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. He was lost in a Lysander of the Parachute Practice Unit during the night of August 17/18 1940. The aircraft, which had probably taken off from North Weald, was lost over the English Channel whilst on a sortie to land an agent in France. Coghlan’s body was washed up at Boulogne on September 23 1940 and buried next day in Boulogne Eastern Cemetery. He was 25 years old. Another version of the events of August 17/18 1940 is that Coghlan was on his first clandestine operation, detailed to land an agent in France. On landing, both men were captured and shot.

CHRISTOPHER COLEBROOK 86344

Pilot

British

British

54 Squadron

After converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on October 14. Colebrook was killed on April 20 1941, still serving with the squadron. He was shot down off Clacton in Spitfire P 7383 and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 31. PO 21.9.40

EDWARD JACK COLEMAN 42800

PO

Pilot

British

54 Squadron

Coleman was born on October 9 1914 and was at Dulwich College from 1926 to 1933. After leaving, he went to work for Beese & Co, shipping agents, and he was later posted to their branch office in Aden. Coleman returned to England in April 1939 and joined the RAF on a short service commission. He began his ab initio flying course on August 14 1939. He was posted to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on December 29 1939, on No 6 Course, which ended on June 10 1940. Coleman arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 10th and, after converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron at Rochford on June 24. On July 7 Coleman made a forced-landing near Deal after an attack by Bf 109s, slightly wounded. His next flight was made on July 14. He claimed two Bf 109s probably destroyed on the 24th. Coleman was posted to RAF Hornchurch on August 28, as non effective sick, with malaria. He rejoined the squadron on October 16. He was killed on February 17 1941, when he crashed whilst carrying out a weather test. Coleman was cremated at the South London Crematorium at Mitcham, Surrey. He is remembered on a memorial plaque at Dulwich College, unveiled on March 14 2002.

The Hon DAVID ARTHUR COKE FO

Pilot

Colebrook joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754796). Called up in September, he completed his training, was commissioned on September 21 1940 and he arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on that day.

APO 30.3.36 PO 3.2.37 FO 3.9.38

73042

PO

257 Squadron

Son of the Fourth Earl of Leicester, Coke, of Holkham Hall, Norfolk, was born on December 4 1915. He was educated at Eton and Trinity College, Cambridge, where he read Mechanical Sciences. He learned to fly with the University Air Squadron and transferred to the RAFVR in June 1939. Called up on September 1, Coke completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on April 20 1940. He converted to Hurricanes and was posted on May 14 to 257 Squadron, then about to reform at Hendon. On August 12 Coke’s Hurricane, P 3776, was severely damaged in combat over Portsmouth. Slightly wounded, he made a crash-landing and was admitted to the Royal Naval Hospital, Haslar, where one of his fingers was amputated. He remained with 257 Squadron, as non-effective sick. Coke was posted to RAF Debden on September 12, again as non-effective sick, and did not rejoin 257 until September 27. Coke destroyed a Bf 109 over the Channel on October 22, probably destroyed a Bf 109 over Cranbrook on the 25th and probably destroyed a Do 17 on December 8. He was detached from 257 to 46 Squadron at Digby on December 29 1940. In Spring 1941 Coke was posted to the Middle East and he joined 33 Squadron in Greece. On April 15 he destroyed a Bf 109 N of Athens. At the end of April the squadron’s last four Hurricanes covered Army convoys leaving Greece and joined up with the remnants of 80 Squadron, to put up a fighter defence. They then withdrew to Crete, operating from there until withdrawn to Egypt about May 20 1941. On June 1 80 Squadron reformed at Aqir in Palestine and Coke joined it, later becoming a Flight Commander. On June 14 1941 he damaged a Frernch MS 406 off the Syrian coast. The squadron returned to the Western Desert at LG 103 on October 22 and on November 24 Coke damaged a Bf 110 NW of Maddalena. On December 9 1941 Coke led a formation of Hurricanes to attack enemy transport on the El Adem-Acroma road. They were intercepted by Bf 109s and Coke and three others were shot down and killed. He is buried in Knightsbridge War Cemetery, Acroma, Libya. Coke was awarded the DFC (26.12.41) for an attack on enemy transport on the El Adem-Acroma road one day in November 1941. A large number of vehicles, tanks and mechanised transport were bombed and machine-gunned and the damage inflicted played a large part in blocking the road.

APO 23.10.39 PO 10.6.40

PETER COLLARD 90402

FO

Pilot

British 615 Squadron Born in London, Collard joined 615 Squadron, AAF at Kenley in late 1937. Called to full-time service on August 24 1939, he was detached from 615 to 11 Group Pool, St Athan on September 9, for a Hurricane conversion course. He rejoined 615 on September 12.

Collard flew with the squadron to Merville in France on November 15, in a Gladiator. 615 received its first Hurricanes in April 1940. On May 15 Collard damaged a Hs 126 and another unidentified enemy aircraft. The squadron was withdrawn to Kenley on the 21st. Collard claimed a He 111 probably destroyed on June 22, a Ju 87 destroyed on July 14 and he shared in the destruction of a He 59 over the Channel on the 27th. He failed to return from a combat off Dover on August 14 1940. His Hurricane, P 3109, crashed into the sea. Collard was 24 and he is buried in Oye-Plage Communal Cemetery, France. He was awarded the DFC (23.8.40), the citation crediting him with six enemy aircraft destroyed.

PO (RAFVR) 27.6.39 PO 1.9.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

PO (AAF) 4.2.38 FO 24.8.39

CHARLES FREDERICK JOHN COLE

GEORGE RICHARD COLLETT

745971

745500

Sgt

Observer

British

236 Squadron

Cole joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer. He was called up on September 1 and after completing his training, he joined 236 Squadron at Bircham Newton on September 3 1940.

Sgt

Pilot

British

54 Squadron

Collett joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1 and with training completed, he arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 1 1940.

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BASIL GORDON COLLYNS

After converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron at Rochford on July 15. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on the 24th. On that day he ran out of fuel pursuing an enemy aircraft and made a forcedlanding on the beach at Dunwich. Spifire N 3192 was a writeoff. Collett was killed in combat with enemy fighters on August 22 1940. His Spitfire, R 6078, crashed into the Channel off Deal. He was 24 years old and is buried in Bergen-op-Zoom War Cemetery, Netherlands.

391342

PO

Pilot

British

Pilot

New Zealander

238 Squadron

Collyns was born in Greymouth on February 24 1913 and educated at Nelson College from 1925 to 1930. He spent two years at Lincoln Agricultural College and then he went sheep farming at Kaikoura. In June 1939 Collyns joined the Civil Reserve of Pilots and began flying at the Marlborough Aero Club. Called for full-time service, he went to the Ground Training School at Weraroa on November 19 1939. Collyns did his elementary flying at No 1 EFTS, Taieri and 2 EFTS, New Plymouth, before going on to 2 FTS, Woodbourne. Collyns qualified as a pilot and was commissioned at the end of June 1940. He sailed in the RMS Rangitane on July 12 for the UK. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge from No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on September 10. After he had converted to Hurricanes, he joined 238 Squadron at Middle Wallop on September 30. He did not become operational until October 26. Collyns was detached from 238 to 601 Squadron at Exeter on November 6, for further training, after which he rejoined 238, then at Chilbolton, on the 27th. He was posted to No 1 Squadron at Redhill on May 3 1941. On June 21 he shot a Bf 109 down into the sea. At the end of his tour he was posted to 60 OTU, East Fortune on November 17, as an instructor. Collyns joined the newly-formed 243 Squadron at Ouston in late June 1942, moved on to 222 Squadron at Drem on September 2, became a Flight Commander in October and was posted to 485 Squadron at Kings Cliffe on November 11 1942. Four weeks later Collyns went, as a supernumerary Flight Lieutenant, to the AFDU at Duxford, remaining there until June 7 1943, when he went to 1493 Flight, Eastchurch, as a gunnery instructor. Collyns returned to operations on January 15 1944, with a posting to 65 Squadron at Gravesend, newly-equipped with Mustangs. He damaged a Ju 52 and a Bf 109 on the ground on April 19 and destroyed a Bf 109 in the air on June 10. Four days later Collyns was posted to 19 Squadron at Ford, as a Flight Commander. On June 20 he shot down a FW 190. On the 22nd he was attacking gun positions at low level when he was hit by flak. Collyns pulled up sharply to 3000 feet, hoping to reach the American lines but his engine began to spurt flames, so he baled out, was picked up by American troops and flew back to England, to rejoin his squadron. On August 9 1944 Collyns destroyed a FW 190 and shared another, on the 14th he got a probable Bf 109 and damaged two FW 190s, on the 20th he destroyed a Fw 190 but was then himself shot down. He crashed about one kilometre from Rouvres and was killed instantly, his body being thrown about twenty metres from his aircraft. Collyns’ body was taken to the Mayor’s house and he was buried on the 22nd in the presence of the entire village. There were so many flowers that the Germans protested. After the war his remains were re-interred in the Villeneuve St George Communal Cemetery. Collyns was awarded the DFC (16.10.44).

LEON WILLIAM COLLINGRIDGE 42196

PO

66 Squadron

Born on August 25 1920, Collingridge joined the de Havilland Aircraft Co, as an apprentice, in 1938. On May 1 1939 he went into the RAF as a candidate for a short service commission. After completing his elementary flying training at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell, he was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose on July 8 1939, on No 12 Course, which ended on December 9 1939. He went to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on the 28th, converted to Spitfires, and joined 66 Squadron at Duxford on February 3 1940. The squadron moved to Coltishall on May 29 1940. On June 19 Collingridge shared in the probable destruction of a Ju 88 NE of Yarmouth. In combat with He 111s on July 29, he shared in destroying one before his Spitfire, N 3402, was hit by return fire, causing engine failure, and he crashed on the beach at Orfordness, sustaining injuries. He was admitted to Ipswich Hospital. Collingridge rejoined 66 Squadron on August 26. He was immediately posted to RAF Biggin Hill, as non-effective sick. Two days later he was transferred to the RAF Officers’ Hospital, Torquay. He finally rejoined 66, then at West Malling, on January 6 1941. On November 16 1941 Collingridge was posted to CFS, Upavon for an instructor’s course. He instructed on Masters and Tutors at 9 FTS, Hullavington from January 12 to March 22 1942 and then at 5 FTS, Ternhill until August 26 1943, when he was posted to Canada. Collingridge instructed at 41 SFTS, Weyburn; 37 SFTS, Calgary and 34 SFTS, Medicine Hat. In December 1944 he did a course at 2 FIS, Pearce and then instructed at 10 SFTS, Dauphin and 18 SFTS, Gimli. He returned to the UK in October 1945 and was posted to the staff of 17 Reserve Centre, Rattlesden, moving later to 16 RC, Sudbury. From June 1946 to April 1949 Collingridge was with 607 Squadron at Ouston. He served in a number of flying and instructional appointments before his retirement on August 25 1963, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. Collingridge was made an MBE (2.6.62). He died in 1993.

PO 28.6.40 FO 28.6.41 FL 28.6.42

ERIC COMBES APO 24.6.39 PO 9.12.39 FO 9.12.40 FL 27.3.42 FL 1.9.45

808380

ANTHONY ROLAND COLLINS

Combes joined 608 Squadron, AAF at Thornaby in 1938, as an Aircrafthand, for four years.

29088 SL

Pilot

British

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

219 Squadron

72 and 46 Squadrons With his training completed, Coombes was posted to 219 Squadron at Catterick on August 1 1940. He was still with the squadron in November 1940. As a Flight Sergeant Combes was killed on November 20 1941, serving with 38 Squadron, when Wellington lC T 2991 crashed and exploded as it made a forced landing at El Imayid, Egypt, following a raid on the airfields at Derna and Bardia. Also lost were: Sergeant P Fenn, Sergeant J V Hamilton, Sergeant G H Hellyer, Sergeant F H Lewis, RAAF and Sergeant N J Sharpe. Combes was aged 23 and is remembered on the Alamein Memorial.

Collins was born on June 22 1908 and entered the RAF in late June 1930, on a short service commission. He did his flying training at 2 FTS, Digby, afterwards joining 3 Squadron at Upavon on June 23 1931. He was posted to 30 Squadron at Mosul, Iraq on February 28 1933. Back in the UK, Collins went to No 1 Armament Training Camp at Catfoss on February 28 1935 and on August 10 1936 he was appointed Personal Assistant to the AOC 25 (Armament) Group, Eastchurch. On January 2 1938 Collins was sent to the School of Photography, Farnborough, under instruction. On October 28 he was appointed Officer i/c Photography at Coastal Command, Lee-on-Solent. On June 18 1940 Collins went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge for a refresher course. He joined 72 Squadron at Acklington on July 19 and assumed command on the 25th. On September 2 1940 he was slightly wounded and his aircraft damaged in combat with Bf 110s over Herne Bay. In that engagement he probably destroyed a Bf 110 and a Do 17. Collins flew no sorties between September 2 and September 21, when he was posted to RAF Biggin Hill, as non-effective sick. He was given command of 46 Squadron at Stapleford Tawney on October 6 1940. He held the appointment for a very brief period, being posted to the Middle East on November 4. Collins retired from the RAF on June 22 1955, as a Wing Commander. He died on February 21 1976.

PETER WOODRUFF COMELY 41831

PO

Pilot

British

87 Squadron

Comely joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying on January 23 1939. He completed his training at 11 FTS, Shawbury, on No 12 Course, which ran from April 15 to October 23 1939. He joined 145 Squadron at Croydon from 11 FTS on the 23rd, two weeks after the squadron had been reformed. On May 16 1940 Comely was posted to RAF Hendon, for service in France. He and five other pilots delivered Hurricanes to 87 Squadron at Lille-Seclin. They stayed and flew operationally with 87. The last two survivors, Comely and Flying Officer D H Ward, had been placed on the squadron strength by May 19. The squadron was withdrawn from France to Debden on

PO 27.6.30 FO 27.2.32 FL 27.2.36 SL 1.12.38 WC 1.6.41 WC 1.10.46

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Unit, Connell joined 401 (RCAF) Squadron in 83 Group, 2nd TAF. On November 21 1944 he shared a FW 190, on December 25 he shared a Bf 109 and on January 23 1945 he shared in destroying an Ar 234. Connell was posted away from 401 on April 9 1945 and returned to Canada in May. He was released from the RCAF on June 16 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1994.

May 20. On that day Comely claimed two Ju 88s destroyed. From Debden, the squadron went to Church Fenton. At the end of July ‘B’ Flight of 87 went south to try night-fighting. During the night of August 7/8 Comely shot down a He 111 into the sea. He claimed a Ju 88 destroyed on August 11. He shot down a Bf 110 in a combat off Portland on the 15th but was himself shot down and killed, crashing into the sea in Hurricane P 2872. Comely was 19 years old and he is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 19. APO 1.4.39 PO 23.10.39

Aircraftman Connolly is recorded, without initials, in the logbook of Flight Sergeant Lingard of 25 Squadron as having flown patrols with him on September 5 and September 26 1940. No other information has been discovered.

HARRY ALFRED GEORGE COMERFORD 24051

FL

Pilot

British

312 Squadron

FRANCIS HEBBLETHWAITE POWELL CONNOR

Comerford joined the RAF on a short service commission in January 1927 and was posted to 2 FTS, Digby for flying training. Having qualified, he joined 16 Squadron at Old Sarum on December 19 1927, equipped with Bristol Fighters.

39857

FO

Pilot

British

Connor was born in 1917. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 10 1937. On July 17 he was posted to 9 FTS, Hullavington and, with training completed, he joined 22 (TorpedoBomber) Squadron at Thorney Island on June 12 1938.

On October 20 1928 Comerford was posted to 28 Squadron at Ambala, India. He served on the North-West Frontier in 1930/31. He moved to 31 Squadron at Quetta on March 18 1932 and became Adjutant. On December 20 1932 Comerford went to the UK on leave. He returned to India and was then posted back to the UK on November 22 1933. Comerford joined 40 Squadron at Abingdon on March 15 1934 and with his term of service completed he went on to the RAFO on October 7 1934. He was recalled on January 13 1940 and posted to 7 FTS, Peterborough, as a Flying Instructor and ‘C’ Flight Commander. He was remanded for Court Martial on July 5 1940, on a charge of becoming unfit for duty due to excessive consumption of alcohol. He was tried by General Court Martial on July 24 1940 and acquitted. Comerford was posted from 7 FTS to 6 EFTS, Sywell and it was from there that he joined 312 Squadron at Speke on October 1 1940, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. He flew a few operational sorties on the 11th, 12th and 13th. On the 13th Comerford, Squadron Leader Ambrus and Sergeant J Stehlik attacked and badly damaged a Blenheim of 29 Squadron, the crew of which fortunately survived. On the 15th Comerford, together with Squadron Leader J Ambrus and Pilot Officer T Vybiral, were flying as Yellow Section on a routine patrol. They lost their bearings and were soon low on fuel. Comerford, in Hurricane V 6542, made a forced-landing near Carnforth, writing off the aircraft. Ambrus crashed near Dalton-in-Furness and Vybiral baled out in the same area. Comerford was posted non-effective sick on October 20 and declared fit for light duty only on the 26th. He did not fly again operationally. On November 13 1940 Comerford was posted away to Air Ministry, for attachment to Vickers at Weybridge. He was awarded the AFC (30.9.41) and left the RAF when he resigned his commission on April 19 1943.

Connor went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 22 1940, converted to Spitfires and joined 234 Squadron at St Eval on July 6. He shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 on July 27 and was shot down on August 16 during a combat with Bf 109s off Portsmouth. He baled out and was rescued by a Royal Navy launch and taken to Haslar Naval Hospital, remaining there for two months. His Spitfire, X 4016, crashed into the sea. Connor did not fly operationally again. On November 3 1940 he was posted to CFS, Upavon for an instructor’s course. From May 14 1941 until the end of the war he was a flying instructor in the UK and Canada. Connor’s final posting was to the Air Staff at HQ 50 Group, Reading. He was released in July 1946, as a Squadron Leader. APO 5.7.37 PO 10.5.38 FO 10.12.39 FL 10.12.40 SL 1.9.42

STANLEY DUDLEY PIERCE CONNORS 40349

FO

Pilot

British

JOHN WILLIAM COMPTON AC

Radar Operator

British

25 Squadron He received a five-year commission in 500 Squadron, AAF in May 1936. He relinquished this on being granted an RAF short service commission in December 1937. He was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on the 20th and with training completed Connors joined 111 Squadron at Northolt on June 27 1938. The squadron began flying patrols over France on May 18 1940 and on that day Connors destroyed a Ju 88 and a Bf 109. On the 19th he claimed three He 111s and a Ju 88 destroyed and on the 31st he possibly shot down another Bf 109. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on May 25, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant, and awarded the DFC (31.5.40). On June 2 Connors had an unconfirmed He 111 over Dunkirk and on the 7th he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed, on July 19 he claimed a Bf 109, on the 25th another damaged and on the 31st he shared in the probable destruction of a Ju 88. Connors destroyed a Bf 109 on August 11, destroyed a Ju 88 and a Bf 110 and damaged another of each on the 15th, damaged a Do17 on the 16th and probably shot down a Do 17 on the 18th. In this last engagement Connors was shot down by anti-aircraft fire whilst attacking Do 17s bombing Kenley. He was killed and his Hurricane, R 4187, is believed to be that which crashed at The Oaks, Wallington. Connors is buried in North Berwick Cemetery. After his death, the award of a Bar to the DFC was announced (6.9.40), the citation crediting him with twelve enemy aircraft destroyed.

Compton enlisted in the RAF for the duration of hostilities in June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. He went on a radar course at Yatesbury, after which he was posted to 25 Squadron at North Weald about October 10. He flew his first operational sortie on the 21st and been promoted to Sergeant by November 7 1940. No further service details traced.

WILLIAM CHARLES CONNELL C 1159

PO

Pilot

Canadian

111 Squadron

Connors was born on April 8 1912 and educated at St Paul’s School, Darjeeling, India. He was commissioned in the Special Reserve of the RAFR in March 1936. He resigned this commission when the Special Reserve was converted to the AAF.

PO 15.1.27 FO 30.8.28 FL 1.6.32 FL (RAFO) 7.10.34 FL 1.9.39

1157050

234 Squadron

32 Squadron

Born in Tisdale, Saskatoon on November 6 1917, Connell joined the RCAF on October 1 1939 and began his training at Vancouver Aero Club in November, continued at Trenton from February 1940 and at Camp Borden from March. He arrived in England and joined 112 (RCAF) Squadron, a holding unit, on September 8 1940. He went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 21st to convert to Hurricanes. Connell joined 32 Squadron at Acklington on October 6. He joined No 1 (RCAF) Squadron from 32 on December 1 1940. In February 1942 he was posted to Malta, flying there in a Sunderland on the 21st. He joined 126 Squadron at Ta Kali, as a Flight Commander. When the first Spitfires arrived on March 8, Connell joined 249 Squadron, also at Ta Kali. On the 11th he damaged a Bf 109, on the 15th he probably destroyed a Ju 88 and on the 26th he destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged another. On April 21 1942 Connell and six other pilots were flown to El Ballah, Egypt in a Wellington, to ferry back new Hurricanes for 229 Squadron. They arrived back in Malta on May 5. Connell damaged a Ju 88 on May 7 and on the 8th he was wounded by a Ju 87 gunner and was evacuated and repatriated to Canada. After serving with 135 (RCAF) and 133 (RCAF) Squadrons, he was posted back to the UK in May 1944. After a refresher course at 61 OTU, Rednal and further training at No 1 Tactical Exercise

PO (RAFR) 26.3.36 PO (AAF) 25.5.36 APO 20.12.37 PO 19.2.38 FO 19.8.39

BRIAN BERTRAM CONSIDINE 79728

PO

Pilot

Irish

238 Squadron

Considine joined the RAFVR in December 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742748). He did his early flying at 20 E&RFTS, Gravesend. Called up on September 1 1939, he was posted to No 1 ITW at Selwyn College, Cambridge in October.

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Commander and given command of 604 Squadron. He was awarded the DFC (18.5.43). During the night of July 25/26 Constable Maxwell and Quinton damaged a Do 217 over Yorkshire and on August 23 they destroyed a Ju 88 in daylight over the North Sea. Their next victory, a Ju 188, did not come until March 21 1944. During the night of May 15/16 they destroyed another Ju 188, on July 2/3 a Ju 88 and, finally, during the night of July 8/9 a Ju 88 was shot down and a Do 217 probably destroyed. Constable Maxwell went to HQ 85 Group at Uxbridge on July 19 1944, was awarded the DSO (22.9.44) and posted back to 54 OTU, to command the Training Wing. With the war in Europe over, Constable Maxwell asked to be sent to the Far East. He was given command of 84 Squadron at Charra, Bengal but the Japanese surrendered before he led the squadron on operations. With the disbandment of 84 in December 1946, he took command of 60 Squadron in Singapore. Constable Maxwell was posted to England on December 8 1947. On arrival, he took four months of leave and on April 27 1948 he entered Ampleforth Monastery, as a novice, with a leave of absence from the RAF. He stayed at Ampleforth for four years and once having decided to leave, he rejoined the RAF in November 1952. In January 1953 he did a flying refresher course at 22 FTS, Syerston, moved to 209 AFS at Weston Zoyland in March, where he learned to fly Meteors. In July Constable Maxwell was posted to 228 OTU, Leeming, on Meteor NF 11s. After OTU, he was appointed OC Flying at Coltishall, remaining there until January 1956, when he did an instructors’ refresher course at CFS, South Cerney. In April he took command of the Oxford University Air Squadron. In March 1960 Constable Maxwell was given command of RAF Gan, in the Indian Ocean. At the end of the year he returned to the UK, to be Air Liaison Officer to the GOC, Chester, Western Command. In April 1962 Constable Maxwell was posted to Scottish Command, an appointment he held until he retired on June 3 1964, as a Wing Commander. Constable Maxwell died in August 2000. John Quinton left the RAF after the war as a Squadron Leader, but rejoined as a Flight Lieutenant in 1951. On August 13 that year he was a passenger in a Wellington on a training exercise when a mid-air collision occurred over Yorkshire. As the Wellington broke up Quinton clipped the only available parachute to a 16-year-old ATC cadet, Derek Coates and pushed him out of the aircraft. Coates was the only survivor from the two aircraft involved in the collision. Quinton was awarded a posthumous George Cross.

Considine went to 3 FTS, Grantham on November 20 1939, on No 31 Course, which ended on May 10 1940. He joined 238 Squadron direct from 3 FTS on May 14, as it was being reformed at Tangmere. On July 11 Considine shared a Bf 110, on the 13th he destroyed a Bf 110 and shared in the probable destruction of another and on the 21st he probably destroyed a Bf 110. On August 27 he shared a Do 17. He was himself shot down by Bf 109s over Bournemouth on November 5 1940. He baled out, wounded, and his Hurricane, V 6792, crashed at Crab Farm, Shapwick. Considine volunteered for service in Greece on December 6 and he rejoined 238 Squadron, after fully recovering from his wounds, on December 10. In May 1941 238 Squadron was posted to the Middle East. It flew off the aircraft carrier HMS Victorious on June 14 to Malta, refuelled and then flew on to LG 07 in Egypt the next day. Considine himself went by troopship from the UK to Takoradi and on arrival there he was detailed to ferry a Hurricane north, for squadron use in the Western Desert. In January 1942 Considine was posted to 73 OTU, Aden. He later returned to Egypt and then went to a Met Flight in Palestine, flying twice daily in Gladiators to record weather information. He joined 74 Squadron at Mehrabad on January 30 1943, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. He joined 111 Squadron in Malta in June 1943 and moved to Sicily after the invasion. He later joined 173 (Communications) Squadron at Cairo and was with it until December 1944, when he returned to the UK. Considine was posted to 48 Squadron and flew a Dakota, towing a glider, in the Rhine crossing. The squadron flew out to India on February 15 1945 and carried out supply drops in Burma. After his return to the UK in December 1945, Considine was released from the RAF. He flew with Aer Lingus for four years and later went into advertising. Considine died in 1996. PO 12.5.40 FO 12.5.41 FL 12.5.42

MICHAEL HUGH CONSTABLE MAXWELL 36219

FO

Pilot

British

56 Squadron

PO 7.10.39 FO 7.1 40 FL 7.1.41

Constable Maxwell was born at Beauly, Invernessshire on June 3 1917. He was educated at Ampleforth College, Yorkshire and went to Hertford College, Oxford, where he read Modern History.

SL 1.3.42

SL 10.11.46 WC 1.1.52

ALEXANDER NOEL CONSTANTINE 40893

He was a member of the University Air Squadron, as well as being a commissioned officer in the 4th Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders, a territorial unit. In the years preceding the war, Constable Maxwell attended both Army and OUAS camps. In March 1939 he had applied for a Permanent Commission in the RAF as a University Entrant. On August 28 he heard that he had been accepted. Called up at the outbreak of war, he spent a month as an Army Officer but then resigned his commission and reported to 9 FTS, Hullavington on October 10 1939. Constable Maxwell completed his training and was posted to 7 B&GS at Stormy Down in March 1940, for a gunnery course, after which he joined 56 Squadron at North Weald on April 20. On May 27 he shared in the destruction of a He 111 over Dunkirk and was then hit by Belgian anti-aircraft fire. He baled out, was taken to Ostend and returned to England in a trawler. Constable Maxwell was wounded in the leg and foot by cannon shell splinters on June 8, when he was jumped by Bf 109s whilst on a bomber-escort operation. A tyre burst on landing and the aircraft slewed round. He was admitted to Epping Hospital. He rejoined 56 Squadron on July 9. On August 28 1940 he claimed a probable Bf 109, on September 27 he shot down a Do 17 and shared a Bf 110 and on the 30th he made a crash-landing on Chesil Bank, after being in combat with Do 17s and Bf 110s over Portland. The Hurricane, L 1764, was a writeoff but Constable Maxwell was unhurt. On October 7 he probably destroyed a Bf 109. He was posted to 52 OTU, Debden on February 21 1941. In late March he went to CFS for an instructors’ course and then returned to Debden. At the end of July he moved to 60 OTU, East Fortune, to do more instructing but on October 8 he was posted to 604 Squadron at Middle Wallop. He was teamed with Sergeant J Quinton. In March 1942 Constable Maxwell was promoted to Squadron Leader and posted to command the AI Flight at 60 OTU, taking Quinton with him. They were to remain together for over four years. At the end of August 1942 they went to 54 OTU, Charter Hall, where Constable Maxwell was to command ‘B’ Squadron. A return to operations came on December 12 1942, with a posting to 264 Squadron at Colerne, as a Flight Commander. During the night of January 21/22 1943 Constable Maxwell, with Sergeant Quinton as his radar operator, damaged a Do 217 over Deelen airfield and on March 30 a He 111 was shot down in daylight. On April 23 Constable Maxwell was promoted to Acting Wing

FO

Pilot

Australian

141 Squadron

Constantine was born at Moama, New South Wales on December 13 1914. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying on May 16 1938, as a pupil pilot, at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty. He completed his training at 8 FTS, Montrose in March 1939 and was posted to No 1 Air Observers’ School at North Coates, as a staff pilot. He moved to 4 AOS, West Freugh in September, as a staff pilot. Constantine had a period in hospital in October/November 1939 and on recovery, he went to 10 B&GS, Warmwell, again as a staff pilot. He then joined the recently-reformed 141 Squadron at Grangemouth on December 11 1939. He served with 141 throughout the Battle of Britain and was posted away to 23 Squadron at Ford on April 28 1941, to fly Havocs. Constantine did a course at No 1 Blind Approach School at Watchfield in May, after which he was posted to 61 OTU, Heston, as an instructor. In October 1941 he joined 264 Squadron at West Malling, on Defiants. In November 1941 he went to 125 Squadron at Fairwood Common, again on Defiants and in December 1941 he joined 87 Squadron at Colerne, this time to fly Hurricanes. In January 1942 Constantine was posted to India, travelling by sea. He went to Air HQ, New Delhi on arrival, where he was given command of 273 Squadron in Ceylon, defending the ports there. In June 1943 he took command of 136 Squadron at Baigachi, India. On January 15 1944 Constantine destroyed a Mitsubishi A6M-3 and he damaged another, on the 20th destroyed a Nakajima Ki 43, on February 15 another A6M-3 and in March a Nakajima Ki 44. He was posted away soon afterwards to HQ ACSEA, as Wing Commander, Tactics. Constantine returned to the UK in June 1944, to attend the Fighter Leaders’ School at Milfield. He went back to HQ ACSEA in October. In June 1945 he returned to Australia and was briefly at HQ RAAF Airboard, Melbourne before returning to HQ ACSEA, Kandy on August 3 1945. Released from the RAF in December 1946, Constantine returned to Australia and began flying in the former Dutch East Indies area. He was killed on on July 29 1947, during the conflict between Indonesian nationalists and the Dutch colonial power. He was in a Dakota, purchased by supporters of the new Indonesian republic and carrying medicines from Singapore, which crashed on approach to Maguwo. The aircraft had been intercepted by a Dutch Kittyhawk, but the Dutch denied that the Dakota had been fired on and also denied claims that it was carrying Red Cross markings. There was one survivior. Constantine’s wife was amongst those killed. APO 9.7.38 PO 16.5.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.1.44

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ARTHUR WILLSON COOK 131140

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

Promoted to Warrant Officer in June, he returned to operations on October 26, when he joined 264 Squadron at Colerne as Radio Observer to 264’s CO, Wing Commander H M Kent. On May 6 1943 Cook went to Fairwood Common to be RO to the Station Commander, Group Captain Heber-Percy, who had full use of a Mosquito of 307 (Polish) Squadron, stationed there at that time. Cook was posted to 1692 Flight at Drem on October 1 1943, which moved later to Little Snoring.He was injured in an incident on February 15 1944, when his aircraft was shot at by British anti-aircraft guns, after entering a gun-defended area. In August 1944 Cook began training as an Airfield Controller. He was released from the RAF in June 1946, as a Warrant Officer. Cook went into Aircraft Control in civilian life and was on the staff at Heathrow Airport for many years. He retired on January 1 1981. He died in 2004.

604 Squadron

Cook enlisted in the RAFVR at Hartlepool in July 1939, as an Airman u/t Aircrew (758186) and was called up in December. Posted to 3 ITW, Hastings, he was there until April 1940. In June he went on a gunnery course at 5 B&GS, Jurby, Isle of Man, then to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 20, to convert to Blenheims, after which he joined 604 Squadron at Middle Wallop on August 20 1940. Cook remained with the squadron until February 20 1941, when he went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum. He was posted to the Overseas Air Delivery Flight, Kemble on April 26 and from July 14 to September 12 1941 Cook served with 216 Squadron at Heliopolis and 223 Squadron at Shandur. After a short spell with 69 (General Reconnaissance) Squadron in Malta, he joined 1437 Strategical Reconnaissance Unit in Libya on November 30 1941, later serving with it in Sicily, Italy and Persia. Cook was awarded the DFM (2.6.42) for a sortie over Benghazi. His Baltimore was attacked by six enemy fighters. Although his gun was rendered useless by icing conditions and he was in grave danger from enemy fire, Cook gave cool and skilful instructions to his pilot and endeavoured to take photographs of the enemy aircraft. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in July 1942, Cook returned to the UK in November 1943 and after a Specialist Armament Course at Manby, he became an Armament Officer at Morpeth in May 1944. He was appointed Station Armament Officer at RAF Dalcross in January 1945. Cook was released from the RAF in December 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1990.

CHARLES ALFRED COOKE 43634

Pilot

British

British

66 Squadron

Cooke was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney on August 22 1936 and with training completed, he joined 213 Squadron at Northolt on April 25 1937. He was commissioned on April 1 1940 and joined 66 Squadron at Duxford on the 8th. On May 13 1940 six Spitfires of the squadron, with six Defiants of 264 acting as rear cover, were to assist in the evacuation of Queen Wilhelmina from Rotterdam. After a dawn take-off, the Spitfires arrived at Rotterdam without incident, just as a force of Ju 87s, escorted by Bf 109s, began dive-bombing the city. The pre-arranged plan with the Defiants was quickly forgotten and the Spitfires went for the Ju 87s. Cooke shot one down in flames and damaged another. He pursued a third one down to ground level and it crashed into a haystack and blew up. Cooke climbed back up to 12000 feet and joined what he thought were two Spitfires but on discovering that they were Bf 109s, Cooke, low on fuel and out of ammunition, climbed into cloud and headed for base. As he broke cloud over the Thames Estuary, the anti-aircraft guns opened up on him, fortunately without result. On July 10 Cooke shared in destroying a Do17 and on August 20 he destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 21st he damaged a Do 17. On September 4 Cooke claimed to have probably destroyed three Bf 109s. On this day, in combat with a Bf 109 over Ashford, Cooke was shot down. He baled out at 20,000 feet, with burns to face and hands. His abandoned aircraft exploded almost immediately afterwards. Cooke made a delayed drop to 8000 feet, finally landing in the top of a poplar tree in a wood at Ham Street. The Spitfire, R 6689, crashed on the crossroads at Chequertree Farm, Aldington. After rejoining the squadron on September 21, Cooke assumed command of ‘B’ Flight on October 5 and was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on the 18th. On October 13 Cooke probably destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 27th he damaged two Bf 110s. He was posted away to 312 Squadron at Speke on November 30 1940 and took command of ‘A’ Flight. In December 1941 Cooke took command of 264 Squadron at Colerne. He destroyed a Ju 88 in the early hours of July 31 1942, which crashed at Malvern Wells, Worcestershire. At the end of his tour, he was awarded the DFC (13.10.42). After the war Cooke stayed in the RAF, in the Secretarial Branch. He was a graduate of the Staff College and retired on July 11 1958, as a Squadron Leader. He died on January 28 1985 in Douglas, Isle of Man and was cremated.

HARRY COOK Sgt

Pilot

Cooke was born on June 7 1912. He joined the RAF about May 1936, as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot (580219). He began his elementary training on June 8 1936, as a pupil pilot. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on August 4, where he was formally enlisted.

PO 16.7.42 FO 16.1.43 FL 16.7.44

126096

PO

266 and 66 Squadrons

In July 1939 Cook joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754199). He began his elementary flying training on August 6. Called up on September 1, he was posted to 3 ITW, Hastings in October, after which he continued his training at 3 EFTS, Hamble and 14 FTS, at Kinloss and Cranfield, on No 7 Course, which ran from April 28 to August 3 1940. Cook was awarded his flying badge on June 21 1940, completed the course and went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 4. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on August 26. He moved to 66 Squadron at Kenley on September 12. Cook shared a He 111 on the 15th, claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on the 24th, a Bf 110 destroyed and another damaged on the 27th, another Bf 109 on the 30th and a Bf 109 damaged on October 8. He made a crash-landing at Hornchurch on October 13, following a combat with Bf 109s over Maidstone. His Spitfire, X 4543, was written off but Cook was unhurt. On October 11 Cook damaged a Bf 109 and on November 26 he claimed another Bf 109 destroyed. In early 1941 Cook was posted to 7 OTU, as an instructor. Later in the year he was with 234 Squadron at Ibsley, served as a pilot with the MSFU in 1942 and in 1943 he was with 41 Squadron. On one early morning patrol, Cook surprised a German destroyer, which, after one burst of cannon fire, turned and ran on to rocks. Commissioned in June 1942, Cook had three confirmed victories, three probables and four damaged. He also destroyed a V1, a train, two armoured vehicles and twenty other types of vehicle. He was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 18.6.42 FO 18.12.42 FL 18.6.44

PO 1.4.40 FO 5.1.41 FL 5.1.42 SL 1.8.47

ROBERT VINCENT COOK 755328

Sgt

Air Gunnerv British

HERBERT REGINALD COOKE

219 Squadron

161352 Cook was born on January 2 1921. He joined the RAFVR at Southend on March 10 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. He was called up at the outbreak of war and posted to RAF Jurby on November 13, for an air gunnery course.

Sgt Air Gunner

British

23 Squadron

Cooke joined 601 Squadron, AAF in October 1938, as an Aircrafthand (801516) for four years. He was called up on August 24 1939 and later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner.

On May 20 1940 Cook joined 219 Squadron at Catterick and served with it throughout the Battle of Britain. When the squadron was re-equipped with Beaufighters, Cook retrained as a Radio Observer. On November 22 1941 his aircraft attacked and damaged a Do 217 in the late evening. Cook was posted away from 219 to the Telecom Flying Unit at Hurn/Defford on February 25 1942.

He was with 23 Squadron at Collyweston in June 1940 and served with the squadron in the Battle of Britain. Commissioned in March 1943, Cooke was awarded the DFC (10.12.43), as a Warrant Officer with 619 Squadron, operating in Lancasters, from Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire. The citation stated that he had taken part in a very large number of sorties. During an

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

He was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham for flying training and with the course completed he joined 33 Squadron at Bicester on March 27 1932. In October 1933 he went to the School of Naval Co-operation. In April 1935 Coope was given a staff job at No 1 Air Defence Group, London. He became Assistant Air Attaché in Berlin on November 12 1935 and held the post until January 1939, when he went as a supernumerary to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge. Coope commanded 87 Squadron from April 4 1939 and took the squadron to France at the outbreak of war. On November 14 1939 Coope and Pilot Officer R L Glyde of 87, in two Hurricanes, made a forced-landing in Belgium and they were interned. They escaped on the 24th and, with the help of the British Consulate, made their way back to France in civilian clothes and rejoined 87 Squadron on the 27th. Coope was posted to 52 Wing in France on December 12 1939. He later returned to England and he joined A 13 of the Directorate of Intelligence at the Air Ministry on May 30 1940. He was a friend of 17 Squadron’s CO, Squadron Leader C W Williams, and he spent a week or so with the squadron from August 25 1940 ‘for some flying practice’. Between the 26th and 31st Coope flew thirteen operational sorties with the squadron. Williams had been killed in action on the afternoon of the 25th, the day Coope arrived at the squadron. Coope wrote a personal tribute to him that was published in The Times on October 8. In this he said how he and Williams had sat and chatted on that fateful day until 17 Squadron was scrambled. It seems that Coope took the decision to fly operationally only after Williams’ death. At no time, on any sortie, did he lead the squadron, a flight or a section. His motivation may have been to avenge his friend. In early 1941 Coope became Wing Commander Flying at Wittering. On a Channel patrol on April 15, he was shot down in Spitfire P 7901 by Adolf Galland of JG 26. Coope was killed on June 4 1941, leading 266 Squadron on a sweep. Ten miles SE of Dover his Spitfire, P 8034, suddenly broke away, turned on to its back and spun down. No parachute was seen and it was presumed that Coope had lost consciousness due to oxygen failure. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 28.

attack on Kassel Cooke saw an aircraft being attacked by a fighter. He informed his captain and they were able to shoot the enemy aircraft down. Cooke was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flying Officer, and he died in 1994. PO 29.3.43 FO 23.3.44

ROBERT JOHNSON COOMBS 60324

Sgt

Pilot

British

600 Squadron

Coombs was born at Brockley, London in 1912 and educated at the secondary school there. He went to work for Shell. He later worked for Armstrong-Whitworth and in 1939 he was a planning engineer with Folland Aircraft. In May 1932 Coombs joined 600 Squadron, AAF at Hendon, as a fitter-armourer (800278). He completed his four year term of service and he then joined the RAFVR on January 25 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740029). Coombs went for a two-month ab initio course at 12 E&RFTS at Prestwick, from January 25 to March 26 1937. He continued his training afterwards at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham from May 1 to August 4 1937 and when he moved to Southampton in August 1937 he did his flying at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble from August 5 to September 4 1937. Called up at the outbreak of war, Coombs was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on October 8 1939 and after completing his training on January 26 1940 he rejoined his old Squadron, 600, at Manston on February 10. He was with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. Commissioned in January 1941, he was posted away on August 14, to be an instructor at 51 OTU, Cranfield. Coombs returned to operations on April 8 1943, when he joined 151 Squadron at Wittering, moving to 157 Squadron at Hunsdon on November 1 1943. With another Mosquito, Coombs carried out a patrol from Predannack to Cape Ortegal and Ferrol on February 19 1944. Over the Bay of Biscay they encountered a Ju 290 transport, which they attacked and shot down into the sea. Debris from the enemy aircraft hit Coombs’ port radiator and his engine seized, leaving him to return hundreds of miles across the sea on one engine, with both wings damaged by return fire. On March 12 1944 Coombs was posted to 487 Squadron at Hunsdon. On a night antirail sortie on August 5 to Nantes/La Roche/La Rochelle, his aircraft was hit in the starboard engine by flak. Unable to jettison his bombs and with his starboard engine overheating, he and his Navigator, Flying Officer W Judson, baled out at 8000 feet. Sheltered by local people and aided by the French Resistance, they eventually reached the American lines at Nantes on October 1 and returned to England on the 6th. His tour completed, Coombs joined No 1 Ferry Unit at Pershore on October 17 1944, engaged in ferrying four-engined aircraft. He remained with the unit until August 20 1945, was awarded the DFC (29.6.45) and was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Flight Lieutenant. Coombs rejoined the RAFVR, serving at 18 FTS, Fair Oaks from December 2 1947 to November 8 1952. He was Secretary of the 600 Squadron Association until his death in December 1957.

PO (RAFO) 21.3.30 PO 24.10.31 FO 24.4.32 FL 24.10.35 SL 1.10.38

CHARLES FREDERICK COOPER 1003497

Pilot

British

56 Squadron

Cooney was born in Warwick on April 10 1914 and educated at Birmingham Junior Technical School. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice, in January 1930 and passed out in December 1932, as a Metal Rigger.

155877

Pilot

British

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

235 Squadron

Cooper was born in Hockley, Essex on July 28 1917 and educated at Hockley Council School. After leaving, he went to work as a butcher. In April 1939 he joined the Aircraft Crew Section of the RAFVR at Southend, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (747756). Called up on September 1, Cooper joined 235 Squadron at Manston in October. In February 1940 he was sent for further training to No 2 Electrical and Wireless School and he rejoined 235, then at Bircham Newton, on August 13. Cooper went to 272 Squadron on November 26 1940. When the squadron was re-equipped with Beaufighters, the air gunners were posted away and Cooper joined 240 Squadron at Stranraer on March 22 1941, a Catalina unit. On September 1 1942 he went to 205 Squadron, again on Catalinas, and completed his first tour. Commissioned in June 1943, Cooper returned to operations on May 9 1944, posted to 230 Squadron, equipped with Sunderland flying boats, as Signals Leader. He left the squadron on December 10 1945 and on May 6 1946 he went to 4 (Coastal) OTU, again as Signals Leader. Cooper later served with 206 and 99 Squadrons and when he retired from the RAF in

WILLIAM EDWIN COOPE SL

600 Squadron

DOUGLAS CLIFFORD COOPER

Cooney later successfully applied for pilot training and he passed out as a SergeantPilot. He was with 56 Squadron at North Weald by September 1 1939. On January 29 1940 Cooney made a forced-landing at Playford, Suffolk in Hurricane L 1984. He was admitted to East Suffolk and Ipswich Hospital, with injuries. The squadron operated for short periods from French airfields during the Battle of France. On May 22 1940 Cooney shared in the probable destruction of an Hs 126 over Hesdin, with Pilot Officer B J Wicks, and over Dunkirk on the 27th he claimed a probable Bf 110. On July 29 1940 Cooney was shot down and killed by a Bf 109. His Hurricane, P 3879, crashed and exploded in the Channel off Dover. He was 26 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 10.

05201

British

He was a member of the crew of Blenheim L 4905, which had engine failure during a routine patrol in the early hours of October 3 1940. It crashed into trees on high ground at Broadstone Warren, Forest Row, Sussex in heavy rain. The pilot, Pilot Officer C A Hobson, Sergeant D E Hughes, gunner and Cooper were killed. Cooper is buried in Holy Trinity churchyard, Heath Town, Wolverhampton. He was 20 years old. He was one of a number of aircrew, who flew operationally in the Battle of Britain without rank or flying badge.

CECIL JOHN COONEY F/Sgt

Radar Operator

Cooper, of Wolverhampton, joined the RAF in June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. He volunteered for aircrew and after a short radar course he was posted to 600 Squadron at Redhill on September 26 1940.

PO 15.1.41 FO 15.1.42 FL 15.1.43 FO (RAFVR) 2.12.47

564567

AC2

17 Squadron

Coope was educated at Manchester Grammar School and went on to Oriel College, Oxford, where he read Modern Languages. He was a member of the University Air Squadron in 1930 and was commissioned in the RAFO in March 1930. Coope relinquished this when he was granted a Permanent Commission in thr RAF, as a University Entrant, on October 24 1931.

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1954 he was a Flight Lieutenant, Signals leader with 192 Squadron at Watton. Cooper settled in Western Australia. He died there on August 7 2006.

Commissioned from Warrant Officer in March 1945, Cooper was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flying Officer.

PO 9.6.43 FO 9.12.43 FL 9.6.45 FL 9.12.46

PO 3.3.45 FO 3.9.45

JOHN ENERTON COOPER

ASTON MAURICE COOPER-KEY

745777

40802

Sgt

Pilot

British

610 Squadron

PO

Pilot

British

46 Squadron

Cooper, of Luton, joined the RAFVR in April 1939 and did his weekend flying at 29 E&RFTS, Luton. Called to full-time service on September 1, he was posted to 4 ITW, Bexhill in November.

Cooper-Key went to Sherborne School and joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on April 4 1938, as a pupil pilot. He went to 5 FTS, Sealand on June 18, for No 37 Course.

On April 30 1940 Cooper went to 15 EFTS, Redhill. He moved to 15 FTS, Brize Norton on June 17 and then to 15 AFTS, Chipping Norton on August 11. On September 23 Cooper went to 7 OTU, Hawarden, to convert to Spitfires. On October 6 He joined 610 Squadron, Acklington. On October 27 Cooper became separated from his section on an evening flight and in failing light and bad conditions, he went down low to get his bearings. He lost R/T contact, climbed, then went into a spin. He baled out and landed unhurt. Cooper was posted from 610 to 602 Squadron at Westhampnett on December 14 1940 and joined it on the 16th. He was killed on September 9 1941, as a Sergeant with 91 Squadron. His Spitfire dived into the sea off Dungeness while escorting a Walrus on an ASR exercise. Cooper is buried in Luton Church Burial Ground.

With training completed on January 14 1939, he was posted to 23 Squadron at Wittering on January 14. He was detached to RAF Locking on October 22 1939 for a parachute course, rejoining his squadron on the 29th. Cooper-Key was posted away to 46 Squadron at Digby on June 20 1940. On July 24 he was on an AA co-operation flight over Derby. He was killed when he crashed on a railway embankment W of Peartree Station, attempting a forcedlanding in Hurricane P 2685. Cooper-Key was thrown clear and killed instantly. The aircraft burned out. He was 21 and he is buried in Scopwick Church Burial Ground, Lincolnshire. APO 4.6.38 PO 4.4.39

THOMAS PAUL MICHAEL COOPER-SLIPPER 41555

FO

Pilot

British

605 Squadron

ROY NORMAN COOPER 188171

Sgt

Pilot

British

610 and 65 Squadrons

Cooper-Slipper was born on January 11 1921 at Kinver, Staffordshire, grandson of the vicar. He was at King Edward VI School at Stourbridge and was a candidate for an RAF short service commission after leaving school in September 1938.

Cooper, of Portsmouth, joined the RAFVR in July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (758092). Called up on September 1, he completed his flying training and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 23 1940.

He began his ab initio course at 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick on October 31, as a pupil pilot. Cooper-Slipper went to No 1 RAF Depot; Uxbridge for a short disciplinary course on January 14 1939 and on the 28th was posted to 9 FTS, Hullavington. With training completed, he went to No 5 Armament Training Station, Penrhos on September 4 1939 and he joined 74 Squadron on the 7th. Cooper-Slipper was detached from 74 on September 19 to 11 Group Pool, St Athan, for further training. He rejoined 74 on October 24 1939. He was posted to 2 Ferry Pilot Pool, Filton on December 11 he was with it until March 9 1940, when he went to 605 Squadron, Wick. On May 21 1940 the squadron went south to Hawkinge. On the 22nd Cooper-Slipper shared a He 111, on the 25th he destroyed a Ju 87 and on the 26th a Ju 88. The squadron then went up to Drem and was there until September 7, when it moved to Croydon. On the 8th Cooper-Slipper destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged a Do 17, on the 11th he damaged a He 111, on the 12th shared a Do 17 and on the 15th he destroyed a Do 17 by ramming. His aircraft had been hit by return fire during the attack on German bombers. He lost control and collided amidships with the Do 17 over Marden, losing his own port wing. Cooper-Slipper baled out and was slightly injured landing at Church Farm, Marden. His Hurricane, L 2012, crashed at The Leas, Yalding. On September 27 he damaged a Bf 109. He was awarded the DFC (26.11.40). On November 13 1940 he was posted away to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course. In February 1941 he was posted to a Naval Flying School, as an instructor, and in July he went to 60 OTU, East Fortune. In September 1941 Cooper-Slipper was posted to 96 Squadron at Cranage, as a Flight Commander. He moved to 74 Squadron at Acklington in October and in November joined 135 Squadron, then preparing to go to Burma. When the squadron reached Singapore, Cooper-Slipper and several other pilots were held back, to fly with 232 Squadron against the Japanese. On January 22 1942 he destroyed two G3M bombers. After a few days in hospital, he flew a number of sorties, during which he probably destroyed three more Japanese bombers. When Singapore fell Cooper-Slipper escaped via Palembang, was a prisoner of the Japanese for one day, eventually reached Batavia, where he was severely injured by a bomb. He went by hospital ship to Ceylon, then to Bombay. He spent six months in hospital in Poona and Pietermaritzburg. South Africa. Fit again, he was posted to the Middle East as Chief Test Pilot at 103 MU at RAF Aboukir and CO of the Special Performance Spitfire Flight. This entailed local development of the Spitfire for PR work, low-altitude high speed Tac R for 40 (SAAF) Squadron, high-altitude interception of Ju 88 photographic aircraft and latterly Ju 188s at high speed at 30,000 feet. Cooper-Slipper had two combats, at 44,100 feet and 30,000 feet, damaging a Ju 188. He returned to the UK at the end of 1944 and became Chief Test Pilot at RAF Lichfield.

After converting to Spitfires, he joined 610 Squadron at Acklington on October 6 1940. He moved to 65 Squadron at Turnhouse on the 12th. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in July 1944, Cooper was killed on October 28 1945, as a Flying Officer with the Anti-Locust Flight. He was 29 and is buried in the European Cemetery, Jinja Road, Kampala, Uganda. PO 18.7.44 FO 18.1.45

SYDNEY FREDERICK COOPER 174121

Sgt

Pilot

British

253 Squadron

Cooper was born on July 14 1916. He joined the RAFVR in July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741840) and was fully-trained when called up on September 1 1939. With other VR pilots, Cooper was attached to the FAA at Donibristle, where he did a deck-landing course with Gladiators on HMS Furious. The pilots were offered the chance to transfer to the FAA but most declined and were posted back to the RAF, Cooper among them. He arrived at 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on October 30 1939, converted to Hurricanes and then joined 253 Squadron at Manston on December 12. Cooper was shot down in combat on August 30. His Hurricane, P 2631, crashed near Biddenden and was written off but he was unhurt. He damaged a Do 17 over Brooklands on December 3 1940. Commissioned from Warrant Officer on June 28 1943, Cooper stayed on in the RAF, was awarded the AFC (10.6.48) and retired on June 29 1958, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1994. PO 28.6.43

FO 28.12.43

FL 28.6.45 FL 28.12.46

THOMAS ARTHUR COOPER 196692

Sgt

Pilot

British

266 and 92 Squadrons

Cooper was born in 1920. He joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748252). Called up on September 1, he carried out his elementary flying at 29 EFTS. He completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand, on No 49 Course, which ran from June 16 to September 7 1940. Cooper arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 7th and, after converting to Spitfires, he joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on September 30. He was posted to 92 Squadron on October 13.

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PERCY COPELAND

He was released from the RAF in mid-1946, emigrated to Canada in 1947 and became a Test Pilot with Avro Canada in 1948. In 1949 Cooper-Slipper was Captain on development of the Avro Jet Liner, in 1950 Captain of the Orenda Lancaster and he started flying the Orenda-engined F86 Sabre, in 1951 he started flying the CF 100 fighter and in 1955 was made Chief Test Pilot of Orenda Engines. In 1957 Cooper-Slipper completed the USAF Commanders’ Course on B 47 aircraft and then did several hundred hours’ development flying of the Iroquois engine on a B 47 loaned to the RCAF. Cooper-Slipper finished his flying career in 1959. He died in Canada on February 23 2004. APO 14.1.39 PO 3.9.39

108956

Sgt

British

British

616, 66 and 73 Squadrons

Over Dunkirk on June 1 he damaged a He 111. On August 26 he was shot down in a surprise attack by a Bf 109. He made a forced-landing in Spitfire K 9827 and it burned out at Crundale House Farm, Wye. Copeland was wounded and admitted to Ashford Hospital. On September 27 he claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed and two others damaged. On October 14 1940 he was posted to 66 Squadron at West Malling, moving ten days later to 73 Squadron at Castle Camps. Copeland joined 151 Squadron at Digby on November 7. On the 9th he and Flying Officer K H Blair intercepted a Do 17 on a pre-dawn sortie over the east coast, off Skegness. Although they claimed it as destroyed, it reached Gilze-Rijen, with two of the crew wounded. On the night of May 10/11 1941 Copeland destroyed a He 111, in a Defiant of 151. The enemy aircraft crashed at Upchurch, Kent. Commissioned in November 1941, Copeland was posted to the Middle East in early 1942 and he served with 250 Squadron from April 8 1942, as a Flight Commander. On May 15 Copeland’s aircraft was damaged by flak and he was obliged to make a forced-landing in the desert. He rejoined the squadron next day. On June 15 he destroyed two SM 79s 130 miles N of Gambut. They were attacking a convoy, en route to Malta. On June 26 he was flying one of three Kittyhawks of the squadron, as part of an escort for Bostons W of Matruh. The Kittyhawks were attacked by Mc 202s. Copeland failed to return from this operation. He was then a Flight Lieutenant. He was awarded the DFC (27.7.43). He was 25 and his name is on the Alamein Memorial, Column 247.

FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.44

Radar Operator

Pilot

Copeland joined the RAFVR about July 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740491). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and joined 616 Squadron at Leconfield in early 1940.

LEONARD EDWARD MORGAN COOTE 138415

Sgt

600 Squadron

Coote, of Chiswick, joined the RAFVR in May/June 1940, as an Aircrafthand (1002930). He volunteered for aircrew duties and after a short radar course at Yatesbury, he joined 600 Squadron at Manston on July 18 1940, as an Aircraftsman. He was a Sergeant by October 28 1940. Commissioned in October 1942, he was killed on October 3 1943, as a Flying Officer with 46 Squadron, then operating in the Middle East. He was in a Beaufighter lost during an attack on a convoy off Kos. W A Cuddie (qv) was lost in the same aircraft. Coote is remembered on the Alamein Memorial, Column 267. At some time he had undergone plastic surgery at the Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead.

PO 10.11.41

PO 13.10.42 FO 13.3.43

JACK HARRY HAMILTON COPEMAN 41257

RICHARD COPCUTT 581146

Sgt

Observer

British

PO

Pilot

248 Squadron

He damaged a Bf 109 on July 19 1940 and shared in destroying a Ju 88 on the 31st. Copeman was shot down and killed in a combat off Margate on August 11. His Hurricane, P 3105, crashed into the Channel. He was 27 and is buried in Middlekerke Cemetery, Belgium.

He was a member of the crew of Blenheim P 6952, detailed to carry out a reconnaissance off the South-West coast of Norway on October 20 1940. After engaging and shooting down a Do 215, the Blenheim was attacked by three Bf 109s. One engine was knocked out and the cockpit filled with smoke. The captain, Pilot Officer G M Baird, got down to low level, flying blind and skimming the sea, feeling for the surface, at a speed of 150 mph. The aircraft struck the sea and the silence was complete, as the fuselage filled with water. Baird freed himself and opened the hatch. He then managed to float out the unconscious Sergeant D L Burton but was unable to rescue Copcutt, also unconscious, before the aircraft sank. Copcutt was 20. His death was confirmed on November 4 1940. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 13.

APO 29.10.38 PO 29.8.39

GEORGE HENRY CORBETT 81366

PO

Wop/AG

British

Pilot

Canadian

66 Squadron

Corbett was born in Saskatchewan on November 4 1919. His parents emigrated from Britain in 1914. The family moved to British Columbia in 1929. Corbett graduated from High School in 1935 and soon afterwards went with his family to England.

NORMAN DOWNEY COPELAND Sgt

111 Squadron

Copeman joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying on August 29 1938, as a pupil pilot. With training completed, he was with 111 Squadron at Northolt at the outbreak of war.

Copcutt, of Whetstone, Middlesex, joined the RAF about March 1939, as a direct-entry Airman u/t Observer. He completed his training and joined 248 Squadron at North Coates, probably in mid-March 1940. He was posted to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth on May 21 and after receiving further training, he rejoined 248, then at Dyce, on June 25.

54595

British

235 Squadron

Joined the RAF on March 16 1938, as an Aircrafthand (610168). After initial training, Copeland was posted to No 1 Electrical and Wireless School at Cranwell for a wireless operators’ course, after which he joined 23 Squadron at Wittering. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. Copeland was sent to RAF Manby for an air gunnery course and after qualifying, he returned to the squadron. On May 23 1940 Copeland was posted to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton. He went with his flight to Aldergrove on November 19, where it combined with a flight from 236 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron. Copeland joined 404 (RCAF) Squadron at Thorney Island on May 25 1941. He was posted to Canada on April 7 1942, to be an instructor at 31 OTU, Wibert, Nova Scotia. He returned to the UK in late November 1943 and went to 12 AGS, Bishopscourt, Northern Ireland. Commissioned in December 1943, Copeland was posted to 13 AGS, Ballah, Egypt in late May 1944 but soon after arriving, he was sent to Quastina, Palestine. After the end of the war, he went to Pamanzi Island in the Comoro Islands group in the Indian Ocean. Copeland was repatriated from there in December 1945 and released in January 1946.

He was enrolled in the de Havilland Aircraft Construction School at Hatfield. Corbett joined the RAFVR about November 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740859). When war broke out he was in Canada on a two months’ visit, which he cut short and returned to England. He went to 9 FTS, Hullavington, for No 17 Course, which ran from March 7 to June 29 1940. Corbett went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 6 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 66 Squadron at Coltishall on the 26th. After probably destroying a Bf 109 on September 9, Corbett was himself shot down by Bf 109s over East Grinstead. His Spitfire, N 3049, is believed to have crashed at Cowden after he baled out, slightly injured. He was sent on seven days sick leave next day. On September 27 Corbett claimed a Ju 88 destroyed. During the action, his aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire and he made a crash-landing near Orpington, unhurt. Corbett was killed on October 8 1940, shot down by Bf 109s. His Spitfire, R 6779, crashed and burned out on Bayford Marshes, Upchurch. He is buried in St Mary’s churchyard extension, Upchurch, Kent.

PO 29.12.43 FO 29.6.44 FL 29.12.45

PO 6.7.40

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VAUGHAN BOWERMAN CORBETT

HORACE ARTHUR CORDELL

C 299

100598

FL

Pilot

Canadian

1 (RCAF) Squadron

Sgt

Pilot

British

64 and 616 Squadrons

Born on March 24 1911 at Toronto, Corbett joined the RCAF Auxiliary on December 30 1935. He arrived in the UK with No 1 (RCAF) Squadron on June 20 1940. On July 5 he was detached to RAF Uxbridge for an R/T course. He rejoined the squadron on the 9th.

Cordell was born on March 23 1915 in London and worked in his father’s bakery business. He joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (758227) and flew at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield.

On August 26 he damaged a Do 17. Corbett was shot down in combat with Bf 109s over Cranbrook on August 31. He baled out, with burns, and landed near Wittersham level crossing. His Hurricane, P 3869, crashed and burned out at Biddenden. He was declared non-effective sick and posted to 112 (RCAF) Squadron, which served as a holding unit. He did not rejoin his own squadron until November 18 1940. On January 1 1941 Corbett was posted to 2 (RCAF) Squadron at Digby, as a Flight Commander. He took command of the unit in April 1941. It had been re-numbered as 402 (RCAF) Squadron on March 1 1941. On a Blenheim-escort to raid the power station at Mazingarbe on September 27 1941, Corbett shared in destroying a Bf 109. When his tour ended, he was awarded the DFC (13.2.42) and on July 16 1942 he was repatriated to Canada. Corbett was killed in a flying accident on February 20 1945, as a Group Captain. He is buried in St James’ Cemetery, Toronto.

Called up on September 1, Cordell continued his training at No 1 EFTS, Hatfield from March 29 1940, moved to 9 EFTS, Ansty on June 10 and then went to 8 FTS, Montrose on June 20. With training completed, he arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 20 1940, to convert to Spitfires. He joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield on the 30th. Cordell moved to 616 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on October 13 and remained with it until November 18 1940, when he joined 602 Squadron at Westhampnett. Next day Cordell escaped injury, when his Spitfire overturned after landing on a muddy area of the airfield. On March 16 1941 he joined 54 Squadron at North Weald and on June 22 Cordell went to 74 Squadron at Gravesend. He was posted to 56 OTU on July 7, as an instructor, and was commissioned there. Cordell joined 91 Squadron at Lympne on December 9 1942 and then went to the MSFU at Speke on January 21 1943. He made no operational launchings during his time at sea. He was posted away to CGS, Sutton Bridge on August 8 1943, for a Pilot Gunnery Instructors’ course, after which he went to 10 Group Practice Camp on September 30. Cordell was posted to RAF Castletown on March 29 1944, as Sector Gunnery Officer. He was at 5 (P) AFU at Chetwynd and Ternhill from July 4 1944, as a Gunnery Instructor and was then attached to 11 (P) AFU at Wrexham from March 7 to April 7 1945. Cordell was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on July 24 1998 and is buried in South Petherton Cemetery, Somerset.

WILLIAM JAMES CORBIN 126536

Sgt

Pilot

British

74, 66 and 610 Squadrons

Corbin was born in Kent on August 5 1920 and was educated at St Michael’s School, Maidstone. He joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754013) and did his weekend flying at 23 E&RFTS, Rochester. Called up on September 1, he completed his elementary training and then moved to 14 FTS, Kinloss, for No 7 Course, which ran from April 28 to August 3 1940. On the 10th Corbin arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden, for conversion to Spitfires. He joined 74 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on the 26th but on the 29th moved to 66 Squadron at Coltishall. When the squadron went south to Kenley soon afterwards, Corbin remained behind, to complete his training. He rejoined 66 at Kenley on September 7 but three days later he was posted to 610 Squadron at Acklington. Six weeks later, on October 24, Corbin was posted back to 66 Squadron, then at Gravesend. He remained with 66 until September 21 1941, when he went to 53 OTU, Llandow, as an instructor in the Gunnery Flight. During his operational tour, Corbin probably destroyed a He 111, damaged two Bf 109s and damaged aircraft and installations on the ground during daylight sweeps over Northern France. Promoted to Warrant Officer in May 1942, Corbin was commissioned in June. He returned to operations in September 1942, joining 72 Squadron at Ayr. The squadron was about to go to North Africa. On November 8 it was at Gibraltar and on the 16th flew to Maison Blanche, Algiers. He was posted away on June 8 1943, the end of his second tour. Whilst with 72 he claimed two Bf 109s probably destroyed and two others and a FW 190 damaged in the air; two Bf 109s and two Mc 202s destroyed or damaged on the ground, 14 lorries destroyed or damaged and an MTB sunk in Tunis Bay and another two badly damaged. He was awarded the DFC (27.7.43). Corbin reached the UK in July 1943 and in August he was posted to the Gunnery Flight at 57 OTU, Eshott. In April 1944 he was appointed Chief Instructor at 11 Armament Practice Camp, Fairwood Common. Released from the RAF in December 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant, Corbin rejoined the RAFVR in March 1948 and served until 1952. Corbin was a teacher after the war and a prominent Freemason. The Corbin Business Park, Maidstone was named in his honour in 2008. He died on December 8 2012.

PO 19.6.41 FO 19.6.42 FL 19.6.43

DOUGLAS FREDERICK CORFE 810075

Air Gunner

British

British

73, 610 and 66 Squadrons

In 1936 Corfe joined the AAF (810075), to serve on the ground staff of the newly-formed 610 Squadron at Hooton Park. When the AAF introduced its own scheme to train NCO pilots in October 1938, Corfe remustered as an LAC Airman u/t Pilot with 610 Squadron. He was mobilised on August 24 1939 and posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on October 7, on No 42 Course, which ran from October 9 1939 to March 23 1940. Corfe completed his training and rejoined 610 Squadron, then at Wittering, as a Sergeant-Pilot. He was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on April 28 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he went to PDC, Uxbridge on May 15, for allocation to a squadron in France. He joined 73 Squadron at Gaye. On July 25 he rejoined 610 Squadron, then based at Biggin Hill. Corfe claimed a Bf 109 damaged on August 14, he damaged another on the 15th and he was shot down in flames on the 22nd, during a combat with Bf 109s over Folkestone and baled out. His Spitfire, R 6995, crashed and burned out at Hawkinge. He was unhurt. Corfe was posted to 66 Squadron at Kenley on September 10. He destroyed a Bf 109 on the 14th. He was again shot down by Bf 109s on the 18th, this time over the Canterbury area, in Spitfire R 6603. Corfe baled out and was admitted to Chartham Hospital, with injuries. The aircraft crashed at Denge Wood, Petham. He was posted from 66 Squadron to RAF Biggin Hill on the 18th, as non-effective sick. He did not rejoin the squadron for several months. In April 1941 Corfe was with 229 Squadron at Speke. The squadron embarked on the carrier HMS Furious in May, en route for the Middle East. On the 21st six Hurricanes were flown to Malta, leaving for Mersa Matruh later the same day. The Furious could not dispatch the remaining Hurricanes of 229, having been too long in hostile waters. It returned to Gibraltar, sailed again in early June and 229 flew off to Malta on the 6th. The Hurricane IIs were left in Malta and the 229 pilots took Mark Is on to Mersa Matruh the next day. Pending the arrival of squadron ground crews, the 229 pilots were attached to 73, 6 and 208 Squadrons in the Western Desert for operations. On April 19 1942 Corfe flew one of six Hurricanes IIcs from Gambut the 720 miles across the sea to Malta, to join the nineteen other Hurricanes of 229, which had arrived in two groups, on March 27 and April 6. On April 25 1942 Corfe, with five other Hurricanes, was sent to intercept Ju 88s, Ju 87s and Bf 109s over St Paul’s Bay. He became separated from the other Hurricanes and was attacked by four Bf 109s. Corfe broke away and raced for cover between some hills. He was then hit by local ground fire, losing part of his wing. The Hurricane, BE 708, crashed into rocks and exploded on impact, killing Corfe. At the time of his death, Corfe was a Warrant Officer. He is buried in Capuccini Naval

HENRY CORCORAN Sgt

Pilot

Corfe, of Hoylake, Cheshire, was born on August 24 1918. From Rock Ferry Higher Grade School he went to Park High School, Birkenhead in September 1929. He gained his School Certificate in 1934 and left on April 4 1935, to begin work as a clerk with the Mersey Docks and Harbour Board in Liverpool, where his father was employed in a similar capacity.

PO 16.6.42 FO 16.12.42 FL 16.6.44 FO (RAFVR) 19.3.48

519958

Sgt

236 Squadron

Corcoran, of Higher Openshaw, Manchester, joined the RAF about May 1935, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/tAir Gunner and after completing his training, he joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island on July 19 1940. The next day he was flying with Sergeant E E Lockton on an escort operation in Blenheim L 1300. They were shot down by Hauptmann Neumann of JG 27. Both men were reported ‘Missing’, after their aircraft crashed into the Channel off Cherbourg. Corcoran was 27. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 13.

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at Elgin. With his tour completed, Corkett went as an instructor to 53 OTU in October 1941, initially at Llandow but later at Roose, Glamorgan. In January 1943 he was posted to 64 Squadron at Hornchurch and in May was given command of 197 Squadron at Tangmere. In early July 1943 Corkett was shot down, taken prisoner and sent to Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 1710). Repatriated to the UK, he went on to the RAFO on September 1 1945. Corkett rejoined the RAF in September 1952 and was posted to CFS, South Cerney, for an instructors’ course. In April 1953 he went to 2 FTS, then at Cluntoe, Northern Ireland but later at Hullavington and Syerston, as an instructor on Jet Provosts, until September 1958. Corkett had two non-flying staff jobs, firstly at RAF Pitreavie Castle and finally at RAF Scampton, prior to his retirement on January 15 1962, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. He died in 2003.

War Cemetery, in a collective grave with eight other airmen, all of whom died between April 21 and 26 1942.

RICHARD JOHN CORK Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

Pilot

British

242 Squadron

Cork was born in London on April 4 1917 and educated at Slough Grammar School. In 1938 he successfully applied for a commission in the Royal Navy, with a view to joining the Fleet Air Arm. He entered the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on May 1 1939, as a Midshipman (A), and went to Greenwich Naval College for basic training, on Pilots’ Course No 6, from May 2. In late August 1939 he went to the RAF’s 14 E&RFTS, Elmdon and then to No 1 FTS, Leuchars, on No 6 Course, which began on November 6. Awarded his wings in March 1940, Cork went to HMS Raven at Southampton, for deck training with 759 and 760 Squadrons. After completing his training, Cork went into FAA service. On June 15 1940 he was attached to the RAF and posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden. He converted to Spitfires but on July 1 he joined a Hurricane squadron, 242, at Coltishall. On August 30 Cork destroyed a Bf 110 and shared a He 111 and on September 7 he destroyed a Do 17 and a Bf 110 and on this day he was slightly injured in action. On the 15th he destroyed two Do 17s and damaged three Bf 109s. Cork was recommended for the DFC and it was approved on the 24th but was replaced with the DSC by the Admiralty (18.10.40). On December 8 1940 Cork was posted to 252 Squadron, Coastal Command but on January 6 1941 he went to RNAS Yeovilton, for Fleet Air Arm duties. Cork joined 880 Squadron in HMS Indomitable in the Mediterranean. He served in the carrier until September 1941, when he joined another carrier, which went to the Indian Ocean. Its Hurricanes flew secretly to Ceylon and, operating from there, they surprised the Japanese and foiled the air attack intended as a prelude to invasion, which subsequently never took place. In early May 1942 Cork took part in the operations which neutralised the French fighters in Madagascar, clearing the way for British troops to occupy the island and prevent it falling to the Japanese. On May 5, in attacks on Diego Suarez airfield, Cork destroyed three Morane MS 406s and three Potez 63s on the ground. In early August 1942 Cork was back with 880 Squadron in HMS Indomitable, taking part in Operation Pedestal, re-supplying Malta. On August 11 he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88. The following day, in three sorties, Cork destroyed a Ju 88 and shared another and destroyed a Bf 110 and two SM 79s. Cork was awarded the DSO (10.11.42). In early 1944 Cork was appointed Wing Leader of 15 Fighter Wing, made up of two Corsair squadrons operating from HMS Illustrious. On April 14 1944 Cork took off in a Corsair before dawn from the carrier, to investigate whether the poor weather would allow a planned exercise to take place. He radioed back that it would not and also said that he could not land back on the carrier because of aircraft taking off. Cork went to the airfield at China Bay, flew over to see if the runway was clear, as it would normally have been at that time of day. Seeing the flarepath lit, he landed but collided head-on with an unlit Corsair, just about to take off to join the Illustrious. Both pilots were killed and the aircraft burned out. Cork was a Lieutenant Commander at the time of his death. He is buried in the cemetery at Trincomalee.

APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41 FL 1.9.52

MALCOLM CHARLES CORNER 78746

Pilot

British

Canadian

264 Squadron

Corner joined 141 Squadron at Gatwick on October 2 but flew no operational sorties with it up to December 31 1940. He transferred to the Administrative and Special Duties Branch on June 5 1941 and died on April 23 1945 at Ambala, India, as a Squadron Leader. Corner is buried in Delhi War Cemetery. APO 12.4.40 PO 29.5.40 FO 29.8.41 FL 1.9.42

NOEL HENRY CORRY 80544

PO

Pilot

British

25 Squadron

Corry was born in December 1918. He joined the RAFVR on February 22 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745106), and did his elementary flying at 24 E&RFTS, Sydenham, Belfast. Called up after the outbreak of war, he was posted to ITW at Bexhill-on-Sea. Corry later went to 11 FTS, Shawbury, on No 17 Course, which started on November 20 1939. With his flying training completed, he was commissioned and posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 8 1940, to convert to Blenheims. Corry joined 25 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on June 26 1940 and was with it until January 29 1941, when he was posted away to the Special Duties Flight, 72 Group, initially at Northolt and later at Denham and Eastchurch. On February 19 1942 he joined 8 (P) AFU, training in precision night landings, then on to 2 FIS, Montrose on April 14 1942, for a flying instructors’ course, after which he was posted to 14(P) AFU, Banff, as a Flight Commander Flying Instructor, on Oxfords. On March 14 1944 Corry went to 30 OTU, Hixon, on Wellingtons, to prepare for operational flying in heavy bombers. He moved to 1656 Heavy Conversion Unit, Lindholme, where he joined a crew, who had lost their skipper. After two weeks at the No 1 Lancaster Finishing School at Hemswell, the crew then joined 12 Squadron at Wickenby, Corry as a Squadron Leader and ‘A’ Flight Commander. As he was on his second tour, Corry was required to do only 20 operations but his crew, on their first tour, had to complete 30. Keen to stay with them, Corry continued after his quota was up and he was posted away when it was discovered that he had done 24. He was awarded the DFC (8.12.44). He later went to HQ Bomber Command Air Staff, attached to HQ No 1 Group, Bawtry, as Air Crew Safety and Rescue Officer. His final posting was to No 1 Parachute School. Corry was released from the RAF on November 27 1945, as a Squadron Leader. He died on March 27 2006.

ALAN HENRY CORKETT PO

Air Gunner

Corner was born in 1907 at Westmount, Quebec. He volunteered for RAF aircrew and was commissioned in April 1940, as a direct-entry Air Gunner. After training, he was with 264 Squadron at Duxford in June 1940. He flew with the squadron in the Battle of Britain and his last operational sortie with it was made on August 24 1940.

Midshipman 1.5.39 Sub-Lt 14.3.40 Lt 1.11.41

41903

PO

253 Squadron

Born on August 9 1917 in Finchley, Middlesex, Corkett was educated at the City of London School. He was a stockbroker’s clerk before joining the RAF on a short service commission. He began his training on February 6 1939, as a pupil pilot, at 11 E&RFTS, Perth. In June he was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton. With training completed, he joined the newlyreformed 253 Squadron at Manston on November 6 1939. In mid-May 1940 the squadron, along with others, was alerted to fly to France. Gathered for an early morning takeoff, the Hurricanes were sent back to their bases, presumably as a result of Dowding’s letter to Churchill, requesting that ‘not one more fighter will be sent across the Channel, however urgent and insistent the appeals may be’. On September 4 1940 Corkett claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and on October 5 he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88. On the 19th Corkett was posted to RAF Kenley, as noneffective sick. He did not rejoin the squadron until December 4 1940. He remained with the squadron until August 1941, when he was posted to 17 Squadron

PO 8.6.40 FO 8.6.41 FL 8.6.42

GUY WEBSTER CORY 40677

FO

Pilot

British

41 Squadron

Cory was born on September 2 1916 and joined the RAF on a short service commission and began training on March 7 1938, as a pupil pilot. He continued his flying training at 11 FTS, Shawbury, on No 9 Course, which ran from May 19 to December 17 1938. With training completed, he joined 41 Squadron at Catterick in January 1939. He was still with it at the start of the Battle of Britain.

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On September 7 1940 Cory damaged a Bf 109 and a Do 17, on the 23rd he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and on October 25 he damaged two Bf 109s. In early 1941 Cory was posted to CFS, Upavon, for an instructors’ course, after which he joined the staff at 6 FTS, Little Rissington. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.43). After the war he went to Oxford, to read English. At some period he commanded the University Air Squadron there. In January 1952 Cory was Admin Officer at Kai Tak, Hong Kong. He retired from the RAF on July 24 1954, as a Wing Commander. Cory died on June 20 1981.

1946 he joined 98 Squadron, flying Mosquitos. Granted a Permanent Commission in August 1947, he had a long post-war career, holding various staff appointments and commands, including 151 Squadron and RAF Aldergrove, before retiring on August 19 1974, as a Wing Commander. He died in September 1994. Cosby’s portrait was drawn by Cuthbert Orde in the mess at Biggin Hill in October 1940. Younger brother of E T Cosby.

APO 7.5.38 PO 7.3.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.1.44 SL 1.9.45 WC 1.7.53

DIGBY VAWDRE CARTMEL COTES-PREEDY

APO 8.7.39 PO 1.2.40 FO 1.2.41 FL 1.2.42 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.7.55

41987

PO

Pilot

British

ERIC THOMAS COSBY 157403

Sgt

Pilot

British

Cotes-Preedy joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his training on March 6

3 and 615 Squadrons

Born on November 1 1916, Cosby joined the RAFVR in May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745834). He began his weekend flying at 8 E&RFTS, Reading, continuing later at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble.

1939, as a pupil pilot at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley. He went on to 14 FTS, Kinloss, on No 1 Course, which ran from April 13 to November 6 1939. With training completed, he joined 236 Squadron at Stradishall on November 8. Cotes-Preedy served with the squadron in the Battle of Britain. On August 21 1940 he was detached to Farnborough for a High Altitude Flying Course. Back with 236 Squadron on November 6 1940, he claimed a He 115 floatplane destroyed, which was actually a Breguet 11 of the Luftwaffe SNFIKdo, the German air-sea rescue service. On January 29 1941 Cotes-Preedy was pilot of an aircraft which crashed shortly after a pre-dawn take-off. The aircraft burst into flames on impact and the observer was thrown out. Cotes-Preedy forced his way out and found his observer lying in burning petrol. He dragged him clear, rolled him in the grass to extinguish his burning clothing and then returned to the aircraft, to look for the Air Gunner. Finding the gunner’s escape hatch jammed, he ripped the side of the fuselage and dragged the gunner out by his head. Although injured and suffering from burns himself, he had saved the life of the gunner and also probably the observer’s. Cotes-Preedy was awarded the George Medal (5.5.41). In June 1941 he was posted to 59 OTU, Crosby-on-Eden, as an instructor. He moved to 61 OTU, Heston in February, was briefly with 610 Squadron at Hutton Cranswick in March 1942, before joining 609 Squadron at Digby later in the month, as a Flight Commander. Posted away to the Air Ministry in September 1942, Cotes-Preedy served in the Directorate of Fighter Operations until November, when he went to the Gloster Aeroplane Company, as a production test pilot. In June 1943 he joined 193 Squadron at Harrowbeer, staying with it until November, when he was posted to 52 OTU, (Fighter Command School of Tactics) at Aston Down. In December he joined 263 Squadron at Ibsley but then rejoined 193 Squadron five weeks later. When his third operational tour ended in February 1944, Cotes-Preedy went to the Napier Aero Engine Company, Luton, as a test pilot. He joined 56 Squadron at Newchurch in June 1944. On July 3 and 12 he destroyed two V 1 flying bombs. Cotes-Preedy took command of the squadron at Grimbergen, Belgium in September and on the 29th he destroyed a FW 190 in the Emmerich area. He was awarded the DFC (3.11.44) and was posted away to 83 Group Control Centre in the Netherlands in February 1945. From early June Cotes-Preedy was with 616 Squadron at Lübeck, until he was sent to the BAFO School of Offensive Air Support in August 1945. He returned to the UK in October and was briefly at HQ Fighter Command before going to the Central Fighter Establishment at West Raynham. He was released from the RAF on January 28 1946, as a Squadron Leader, and returned to work for the Gloster Aeroplane Company as a test pilot. Cotes-Preedy died in 1972.

Called to full-time service at the outbreak of war, Cosby was posted to 3 ITW, Hastings on November 20 1939, moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill on March 6 1940 and finished his course there on June 14. Cosby then went to 5 OTU, Aston Down, converted to Hurricanes and joined 3 Squadron at Wick on July 31. He moved to 615 Squadron at Northolt on October 14. He destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged a Ju 88 on the 29th. Cosby was posted away to CFS, Upavon on December 29 1940 for an instructors’ course. He went to RAF Hamilton, Ontario on July 2 1941, remaining there until November 21 1942, when he was posted back to the UK. From January 28 1942 Cosby instructed at 3(P) AFU, Lulsgate Bottom, 62 OTU and 12(P) AFU, Grantham. On August 3 1943 he went to 60 OTU, High Ercall for conversion to night intruder Mosquitos. Commissioned in September, Cosby joined 605 Squadron at Bradwell Bay on November 2. He flew with the squadron until July 14 1944, returning then to 60 OTU, as an instructor, moving on September 4 to 54 OTU, Charter Hall. Cosby was released from the RAF on October 28 1945. He rejoined in September 1949 and retired on March 3 1967, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on April 26 1978. Elder brother of I H Cosby. PO 5.9.43 FO 5.3.44 FO 13.5.48 FL 7.5.59

IVOR HENRY COSBY 42293

PO

Pilot

British

236 Squadron

610, 72 and 222 Squadrons

Cosby was born in London on August 19 1919 and educated at Bournemouth School. He learned to fly in 1938 at Air Service Training Ltd at Hamble and joined the RAFVR as an Airman u/t Pilot. He went into the RAF on a short service commission in May 1939. With flying training completed, he joined 13 (Army Co-operation) Squadron in France in April 1940. After the heavy fighting from May 10, the depleted squadron withdrew by road in late May to Cherbourg, to England by sea, then to Hooton Park to reform. In August 1940 Cosby volunteered for Fighter Command. He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 23 and, after converting to Spitfires, he joined 610 Squadron on September 3. On the 20th Cosby moved to 72 Squadron, also at Biggin Hill. On the 23rd he shared in destroying a Bf 109. In October, when 72 went to Leconfield to reform, Cosby was posted to 222 Squadron at Hornchurch on November 4 1940. When the squadron went to Coltishall on November 11, he joined 602 Squadron at Westhampnett. On December 28 Cosby was posted to 141 Squadron and he joined it at Gravesend on January 6 1941. During the night of February 15/16 1942 he damaged a Do 217 and on August 25, with Pilot Officer L A Komaroff (q.v.) as radar operator, he destroyed a Ju 88 S of the Isle of Wight. Cosby remained with 141 until January 1943, when he went to 51 OTU, Cranfield, as an instructor. After an air gunnery course at CGS, Sutton Bridge, he went as Chief Gunnery Officer at 60 (Night Intruder) OTU at High Ercall in March 1943. A return to operations came in September 1943, with Cosby going as a Flight Commander to 264 Squadron at Fairwood Common. He had a run of night successes. On June 13/14 1944 he destroyed a He 177, on the 17/18th a FW 190, on July 3/4th a Ju 188, on the 11/ 12th a Do 217 damaged and on August 3/4 a Ju 88 destroyed. He was awarded the DFC (4.8.44), being then credited with four enemy aircraft destroyed. In 1945 Cosby was made OC Admin 6502 Air Disarmament Wing in Germany and in

APO 29.4.39 PO 6.11.39

FO 6.11.40

FL 6.11.41

SL 1.7.45

GERALD COTTAM 1050685

AC 2

Radar Operator

British

25 Squadron

Cottam joined the RAFVR in June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. He volunteered for flying duties and was sent to Yatesbury for a short radar course. He joined 25 Squadron at North Weald in early October 1940 and flew his first operational sortie on the 7th. No further service details traced.

HUBERT WEATHERBY COTTAM 77790

PO

Pilot

British

213 Squadron

Cottam, of Sunderland, joined 607 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand (807327). He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot, when the opportunity for pilot training was extended to non-commissioned members of the Auxiliary Air Force.

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HERBERT WILLIAM COUSSENS

Called up on August 24 1939, Cottam was posted from 607 to 7 FTS, Peterborough, on No 12 Course, which ran from October 9 1939 to March 6 1940. He was commissioned on March 7 and joined 610 Squadron on the 17th. Cottam was posted from 610 on May 8 1940 and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 18th. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 213 Squadron at Wittering on the 25th, and joined it on June 2. On August 12 1940 Cottam destroyed a Bf 110, on September 11 he damaged a Bf 110 and on the 15th he destroyed another Bf 110 and damaged a Do 17. He was killed on December 5 1941, whilst serving as a flying instructor at 23 SFTS in Southern Rhodesia. Cottam was 22 and he is buried in Bulawayo Cemetery, Zimbabwe.

120161

Sgt

Pilot

British

601 Squadron

He was born on May 18 1920 and joined the RAFVR in March 1939 as an Airman u/t Pilot (745488). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 9 FTS, Hullavington, on No 19 Course, which ran from May 13 to August 17 1940. Coussens arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 18, converted to Hurricanes and joined 601 Squadron at Exeter on September 11. He went to 73 Squadron in November 1940 and was with it when it moved from Debden to Birkenhead on the 9th, to embark for the Middle East. Commissioned in March 1942, Coussens was with 607 Squadron in Burma in June 1944. He was released from the RAF in 1946, rejoined the RAFVR in 1947 and went back into the RAF in 1949 in the Aircraft Control Branch. Coussens retired on May 18 1963, as a Flight Lieutenant.

PO 7.3.40 FO 7.3.41 PO 19.3.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 19.3.44

FO (RAFVR) 11.12.47 FL 21.11.49

JACK BURRALL COURTIS 391343

Sgt

Pilot

New Zealander

111 Squadron

GEORGE WALTER COUZENS 44823

PO

Pilot

Born at Bluff on October 1 1914, Courtis was educated at Waihopai School and Southland Boys’ High School. He worked as a clerk for the Vacuum Oil Co at Invercargill.

British

54 Squadron

Born on May 31 1909 in Attleborough, Norfolk, Couzens was as an apprentice carpenter after leaving school. He joined the RAF in 1927, as an Aircrafthand (507983) and trained as a Rigger.

In June 1939 Courtis joined the Civil Reserve of Pilots and began elementary flying training with the Southland Aero Club. He volunteered for the RNZAF at the outbreak of war and reported to the Ground Training School at Weraroa on November 19 1939. Courtis did his ab initio training at No 1 EFTS, Taieri and then went to No 1 FTS, Wigram on January 13 1940. Being injured in a forced-landing in April put him in hospital for four weeks. He completed the course and sailed for the UK in the RMS Rangitane, arriving at Liverpool on August 27. Courtis went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge and was posted from there to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 11 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 111 Squadron at Drem on the 29th. He was killed on December 5 1940, when his Hurricane crashed into a hill in bad weather in Scotland. Courtis is buried in Sleepyhillock Cemetery, Montrose.

He later became an Air Gunner and in the mid-1930s he applied for pilot training and was accepted and trained. As a Sergeant-Pilot, he served for two years on the aircraft carrier HMS Courageous before the war. Couzens joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch from 80 Squadron on March 24 1938. He was a Flight Sergeant by September 1 1939. Commissioned in April 1940, Couzens served with 54 in the Battle of Britain. He was detached to 41 Squadron at Hornchurch for ten days from September 18 1940. Couzens was posted from 54 to 8 FTS, Montrose on October 1 1940, as a flying instructor. He instructed for the rest of the war and was awarded the AFC (14.6.45). He retired from the RAF on September 8 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. He died in June 1978. PO 1.4.40 FO 1.4.41 FL 1.4.42

RONALD NOEL HAMILTON COURTNEY 70852

FO Pilot

British

151 Squadron

WILLIAM HUGH COVERLEY 70142

FO

Pilot

Courtney was born on December 25 1919 and joined the RAFO and began his elementary training on January 17 1938. He was granted a five-year commission on March 26 and carried out his flying training at 8 FTS, Montrose, on No 9 Course, which ran from April 9 to October 29 1938. With training completed, he joined 151 Squadron at North Weald. He relinquished his RAFO commission on being granted an RAF short service commission in January 1939.

PO 17.1.39

FO 3.9.40

FL 3.9.41

SL 1.1.41

602 Squadron

Coverley was born at Loudham, near Nottingham. He began his training in the RAFO on October 12 1936, as a pupil pilot. He was commissioned in December 1936 and was called to full-time service at the outbreak of war. He joined No 3 Air Observer School at Aldergrove from the Reserve on September 3 1939. He was posted away on November 27, to 602 Squadron at Drem. On January 13 1940 Coverley damaged a He 111 over the Firth of Forth. On July 7 he shared in destroying a Ju 88. He was shot down by enemy fighters over Dorchester on August 25 and baled out, unhurt. His Spitfire, P 9381, crashed and burned out on Galton Heath. On the 31st he probably destroyed a Bf 109. Coverley was shot down over the Biggin Hill area on September 7. He baled out, badly burned, but his descent was not seen and his body was not found until September 16. His Spitfire, N3198, crashed in flames at Fosters Farm, Haysden Lane, near Tonbridge. Coverley was 23. He is buried in Dean Road Cemetery, Scarborough. His father, Private T C Coverley, died in France on December 2 1917, serving in the 8th Battallion, Royal Fusiliers. He is remembered on the Cambrai Memorial.

Courtney was posted to France, via Manston, on May 13 1940 and was attached to 607 Squadron at Vitry-en-Artois. On the 14th he destroyed an unidentified enemy aircraft, on the 17th he destroyed two Ju 88s and on the 22nd he destroyed another Ju 88. He rejoined 151 Squadron at North Weald on May 27. On the 29th Courtney was attacked by Bf 109s over Dunkirk and baled out, wounded in the back of the neck and the right leg. He was picked up by the corvette HMS Shearwater and taken to Ramsgate Hospital. He returned to 151 on July 18 1940 but did not fly again until September 4. On December 13 1940 Courtney is believed to have been posted to the Middle East but no service details have been found. In February 1942 he was posted to 610 Squadron at Hutton Cranswick. On May 15 1942 he damaged a Do 17 and on June 4 he damaged a Ju 88. Courtney was later posted to the Far East. He was given command of 261 Squadron at Chittagong and later Chiringa from July to December 1943. He took command of 113 Squadron in January 1944 at Dimapur and later Tulihal and Palel, India. Courtney was awarded the DFC (8.9.44), the citation stating that he had taken a prominent part in the squadron’s operations in the Imphal Valley and had destroyed three enemy aircraft. He was posted away from 113 in September 1944. Courtney was awarded a Bar to the DFC (29.1.46). He commanded 130 Squadron at Odiham from July 1946 to January 1947, 72 Squadron, also at Odiham, from February1947 to February 1949 and 32 Squadron at Shallufa, Egypt from November 1951 to May 1952. Awarded the AFC (1.1.54), Courtney led the 1954 Battle of Britain flypast. A graduate of the Joint Services Staff College and the RAF College of Air Warfare, Courtney was made a CB (1.1.67) and retired from the RAF on January 6 1968, as a Group Captain. He died in 1986. APO (RAFO) 26.3.38 WC 1.1.53 GC 1.7.59

British

APO (RAFO) 21.12.36 PO (RAFO) 12.10.37 FO (RAFO) 12.4.39 FO 3.9.39

AUBREY RICHARD COVINGTON 42591

PO

Pilot

British

238 Squadron

Born on January 22 1921, Covington was granted an RAF short service commission and began his elementary training on July 10 1939, as a pupil pilot. He completed his training and was posted to 226 Squadron, flying Fairey Battle light bombers. He was still with the squadron on June 15 1940, when 226 embarked for the UK from France.

SL 1.8.47 Covington volunteered for Fighter Command and joined 238 Squadron at St Eval on

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Cowley had completed his flying training and was on 87 Squadron at Debden on January 1 1939, as a Sergeant-Pilot. He was still with the squadron at the start of the Battle of Britain. On August 15 Cowley made a forced-landing at Symondsbury, near Bridport, after a combat over Portland, in which he destroyed a Bf 110. His Hurricane, P 3465, was written off and Cowley went to Bridport Hospital, slightly wounded. He rejoined 87 Squadron on discharge from hospital but did not fly operationally with it again. On October 14 1940 Cowley was posted away to RAF Exeter. He was commissioned in July 1942 and released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant.

August 20 1940. He destroyed a Bf 110 on September 15. His Hurricane, P 3833, was damaged in this combat over Kenley and he made a forced-landing, out of fuel, at Gulledge Farm, Imberhorne, Sussex. On October 1 he destroyed two Bf 110s and damaged a Bf 109 but on this day he was himself shot down by Bf 109s W of Poole and is believed to have baled out at Sherborne. On the 7th he was shot down over Blandford. Covington baled out, slightly wounded, and was admitted to Blandford Hospital. His Hurricane, V 6777, crashed at Meriden Wood Down, Winterbourne Houghton. He was posted from 238 on October 12, as non-effective sick, and did not rejoin until December 2 1940. Covington volunteered for service in Greece on December 6. He was posted away on the 9th, to 307 (Polish) Squadron at Jurby. He joined it there on the 13th. On the 21st Covington was pilot of a Magister, with Pilot Officer Proctor, 307’s Engineer Officer, as passenger. He had to make a forced-landing in Ireland and he and Proctor were taken and interned at Curragh Camp, Dublin. In the early hours of June 29 1941, Covington was one of a group of ten internees, led by Flying Officer P F Mayhew (qv), who made a successful escape attempt. Four were later recaptured but Covington and the other five men reached Northern Ireland. Covington stayed on in the RAF after the war, latterly in the Fighter Control Branch. He retired on January 22 1964, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1994.

PO 2.7.42 FO 2.1.43 FL 2.7.44

JAMES ROY COWSILL 741936

Sgt Pilot British

56 Squadron

APO 2.9.39 PO 6.4.40 FO 6.4.41 FL 6.4.42 FL 1.9.45 Cowsill joined the RAFVR about August 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He carried out his pre-war training at 4 E&RFTS, Brough. Called up on September 1 1939, he was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney on November 20 1939, for No 31 Course, which he completed on May 25 1940.

JAMES BAIRD COWARD 39412 FL

Pilot

British

19 Squadron Coward was born in Teddington, Middlesex on May 18 1915 and educated at Sutton High School. He joined the RAF as a candidate for a short service commission and began his ab initio course on November 16 1936, at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty.

After converting to Hurricanes, Cowsill joined 56 Squadron at North Weald in June. On July 13 he damaged a Ju 87, which crash-landed on the beach at Cap Griz Nez. Following this action, Cowsill was shot down off Calais by Feldwebel John of 4/JG 51. Cowsill’s aircraft, N 2432, came down into the Channel, about two miles from St Margaret’s Bay. An MTB immediately proceeded to the area, but found no trace of the pilot and only a small piece of wreckage bearing the aircraft number. Cowsill was never heard of again and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 13. He was 20 years old.

He did his intermediate and advanced flying training at 2 FTS, Digby from mid-February to September1937. With training completed, he joined 19 Squadron. On November 6 1939 Coward was posted to 266 Squadron, then reforming at Sutton Bridge, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. Over Dunkirk on June 2 1940 he probably destroyed a Bf 109. Coward rejoined 19 Squadron, then at Fowlmere, from hospital on June 27. He flew his first sortie on July 6. He fell ill soon afterwards and did not fly operationally again until August 28. On August 31 he was shot down during an attack on Do 17s ten miles E of Duxford. He baled out, badly wounded, and landed on the Royston-Newmarket Road. Coward was taken to Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge, where his left leg was amputated below the knee. Fit again, Coward was posted to Mr Churchill’s personal staff, in charge of roof-spotting at Chequers and Chartwell. In early January 1942 he went on a three month refresher course at Hullavington, after which he was posted to 52 OTU, Aston Down, to command a squadron. In October 1942 Coward went as CFI to 55 OTU, Annan. On November 21 1943 he took command of No 1 ADU at Croydon. Coward was sent on a course at RAF Staff College on June 17 1944, following which he was posted to the Air Ministry, in charge of Fighter Operational Training. After the war he held a series of staff appointments and commands. Coward was awarded the AFC (1.1.54). He retired from the RAF on September 8 1969, as an Air Commodore. He died on July 25 2012

DAVID GEORGE SAMUEL RICHARDSON COX 101041

Radar Operator British

25 Squadron

Cowen joined the RAFVR about June 1940 as an Aircrafthand. It is possible that he was an Airman u/t Radio Operator who volunteered for flying duties and was sent to Yatesbury on a short radar course. He joined 25 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on August 25 1940. He flew his first operational sortie on September 1 and his last with 25 Squadron on October 29. No further service details traced.

JAMES COWLEY 49664

Sgt

Pilot

British

British

19 Squadron

Cox joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745136), and began his flying training at 19 E&RFTS, Gatwick. Called up on September 1 1939, he was posted to 10 FTS, Tern Hill and was on No 16 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 11 1940. He joined 19 Squadron at Duxford on May 23. On August 19 Cox shared in the destruction of a Bf 110, on the 31st he probably destroyed a Bf 110, on September 9 he shot down a Bf 109, on the 11th he got a probable Do 17 and on the 15th he destroyed another Bf 109. Cox was himself shot down on the 27th in an engagement over the Canterbury area, in Spitfire X 4237. The aircraft was written off after crashing at Wye Court Farm, Wye and Cox was wounded. He was admitted to hospital and was in there for three months. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on June 27 1941but in the engagement his Spitfire was badly damaged and he made a crash-landing at Dungeness. Cox probably got another Bf 109 on August 12. He was commissioned in July 1941 and posted away from 19 Squadron on September 12, to instruct at 57 OTU, Hawarden. He went to CFS, Upavon for two weeks in October, on an instructor’s course. In May 1942 Cox joined 72 Squadron at Biggin Hill. He damaged a FW 190 on July 26 W of Calais. The squadron was posted to North Africa in November 1942. On the 8th it was in Gibraltar and on the 16th it flew in to Maison Blanche airfield, Algeria. Cox got a probable Bf 109 on the 25th, shot one down on the 26th, probably got one on the 27th, destroyed a Ju 88 on the 29th, a He 111 on the ground on December 2 and shot down a Bf 109 on the 4th. On January 2 1943 Cox damaged a Bf 109. He was made a Flight Commander and awarded the DFC (16.2.43). He damaged a Bf 109 on March 26, shot one down and damaged another on April 3, probably destroyed a FW 190 on the 12th and damaged another on the 19th. Cox’s tour expired on April 26 1943 and he was posted back to the UK on May 15. From June 21 to August 3 1943 he gave talks at factories, after which he became a Tactics Liaison Officer, instructing American pilots. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (9.7.43). In early January 1944 Cox was briefly with 130 Squadron at Scorton but moved to 504 Squadron at Hornchurch on the 20th, as a Flight Commander. On March 12 1944 he went to 84 Group Support Unit, Aston Down, remaining there until June 5, when he was posted to command 222 Squadron at Selsey. Cox rejoined 84 GSU, then at Thruxton, on July 17 and stayed until October 2 1944,

WILLIAM COWEN AC

Pilot

Cox was born on April 18 1920 at Southsea, Hampshire and educated at Bournemouth Collegiate School. After leaving, he worked as a clerk in a solicitor’s office. After failing an RAF medical, he worked for some months at Billingsgate Market to build himself up.

APO 28.1.37 PO 16.11.37 FO 16.6.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.7.52 GC 1.7.58 AC 1.7.62

1050707

Sgt

87 Squadron

Cowley went to the Royal High School, Greenwich. He joined the RAF as an Aircraft Apprentice in January 1931 (565084) and passed out in December 1933, as a Metal Rigger. He later applied for pilot training, was selected and he was remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot.

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His Spitfire, P 9511, hit a house at Stelling Minnis. Cox was 24. He was cremated at Birmingham Municipal Crematorium and his ashes were scattered at Old Castle Bromwich aerodrome.

when he was posted to No 1 Squadron at Detling. He received the C de G (Fr) in September. Cox was given command of No 1 Squadron on January 1 1945. He was posted away on April 5 to HQ 221 Group, Burma. He led 909 (Spitfire) Wing from May 21 to September 26 1945, when he went to HQ RAF Siam. He was released from the RAF on March 11 1946, when he resigned his Permanent Commission. Cox died on January 20 2004.

PO 6.7.40

PHILIP ANTHONY NEVILLE COX 33184

PO 17.7.41 FO 17.7.42 FL 17.7.43

FO

Pilot British

Cox, of Brighton went to Brighton, Hove and Sussex Grammar School. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice at No 1 S of TT, Halton in September 1932 (566096) and passed out in August 1935 as a Fitter.

GILBERT PARISH COX 580644

Sgt

Observer

British

236 Squadron

Cox joined the RAF in February 1939, as a direct-entry Airman u/t Observer. He was posted to 236 Squadron at St Eval on September 20 1940 and flew his first operational sortie on the 29th.

He won a place at RAF College, Cranwell and started there in September 1935, as a Flight Cadet. He was awarded the R M Groves Memorial Prize in 1937. After graduating in July 1937, with a Permanent Commission, Cox was posted to 43 Squadron at Tangmere. On January 17 1939 he went to 11 Group Pool, St Athan, as an instructor, and was made OC ‘C’ Flight on August 25. Cox was made an Acting Flight Lieutenant on September 24 1939. 11 Group Pool became 6 OTU on March 9 1940. Cox went to AFDU, Northolt on May 7, for instruction in air tactics. He was posted from 6 OTU to Hendon on June 6, for posting to France, where he joined 501 Squadron at Le Mans, as a Flight Commander. 501 withdrew on the 18th from Dinard. It operated on the 19th from Jersey, covering the BEF evacuation from Cherbourg, and re-assembled at Croydon on the 21st. Cox claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and shared in the destruction of another on July 20. In combat over Dover Harbour on the 27th, Cox was shot down in Hurricane P 3808 by Feldwebel Fernsebner of III/JG 52 and reported ‘Missing’. At the time Cox was thought to have been a victim of the Dover anti-aircraft guns. He was 25. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 5.

All sorties flown by Cox in October 1940 were with Pilot Officer A K Chappell as pilot and Sergeant H G Matthews as Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. No other service details traced.

GRAHAM JAMES COX 41668

FO

Pilot

British

501 Squadron

152 Squadron

Born in Sparkhill, Birmingham in 1919, Cox joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio training at 23 E&RFTS, Rochester on December 28 1938.

PO 31.7.37 FO 31.1.39 He was on No 11 Course at 10 FTS, Tern Hill, which ran from March 20 to October 14 1939. Cox probably joined 152 Squadron at Acklington directly from 10 FTS at the end of his course. On August 12 1940 he shared a Ju 88, on the 13th got a probable Bf 110, on the 18th shared a Bf 109 and on the 21st shared a Ju 88. Cox claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on September 27, one damaged on the 30th and Ju 88s damaged on October 7 and the 19th. He destroyed a He 111 on May 27 1941 and with his tour completed, he was posted away and awarded the DFC (17.10.41). Returning to operations in September 1942, Cox went to 501 Squadron at Middle Wallop, as a Flight Commander. In May 1943 he was posted to 43 Squadron at Mateur, Tunisia. The squadron moved to Malta on June 8. On a bomber-escort to Gerbini, Sicily on July 4, Cox destroyed a Bf 109. On the way back he decided to fly at low level and he and his No 2 attacked a train at Vizzini station and blew up the engine. On the 5th he was promoted and took command of 229 Squadron at Krendi. On July 10 he destroyed three Mc 200s. In October 1943 he was posted away for a rest. He returned to operations in February 1944, when he took command of 92 Squadron at Marcianise in Italy. Cox destroyed a FW 190 and damaged another on May 13 and destroyed a Ju 188 on July 21. Posted away in August 1944, Cox was awarded the DSO (10.10.44). In 1945 he served as a Forward Controller in Italy. He was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader. Cox is believed to have been killed in a civil flying accident. One source states that the Cessna, in which he was flying, crashed in Canada’s Northern Territory, after it became uncontrollable because of icing in bad weather conditions.

RALPH CYRIL RUPERT COX 747819

Sgt

Observer

He was posted from 248 to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth on May 31, rejoining the squadron on June 25. On August 27 1940 Cox was a member of the crew of a Blenheim, which failed to return from a sortie to reconnoitre the Southern coast of Norway. The aircraft crashed into the sea, reason unknown. The pilot, Pilot Officer C J Arthur, and the gunner, Sergeant E A Ringwood, were reported ‘Missing’. Cox’s death was confirmed on September 28 1940, after his body was washed up on the Swedish coast. Cox was 30. He is buried in Kriberg Cemetery, Gothenburg.

WALTER EDWARD COX 747745

Sgt

Air Gunner

Pilot

British

British

264 Squadron

Cox joined the RAFVR about April 1939 in the Aircraft Crew Section, as an Airman u/t Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. Cox was called to full-time service on September 1, he completed gunnery training and he was with 264 Squadron at Duxford by May 12 1940. He rejoined the squadron on May 17 after being shot down. No details are known of this incident. Cox was killed on February 23 1953 flying in a Bristol Brigand of 238 OCU, which crashed on approach to Colerne. The pilot and two trainee navigators were also killed. Cox is buried at St John the Baptist, Colerne.

KENNETH HENRY COX PO

248 Squadron

Cox joined the RAFVR about April 1939 as an Airman u/t Observer. He was called up on September 1, completed his training and joined 248 Squadron in the Spring of 1940.

APO 4.3.39 PO 2.10.39 FO 2.10.40 FL 2.10 41

81367

British

610 Squadron

Cox joined the RAFVR about December 1937 as an Airman u/t Pilot (741176). He was called up on September 1 1939 and completed his training on No 18 Course at 11 FTS, Shawbury, which ran from January 31 to June 29 1940.

JOHN HARRY COXON 749430

He was commissioned on July 6 and posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down. After converting to Spitfires, Cox joined 610 Squadron at Biggin Hill on the 27th. On August 12 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and another probably destroyed, on the 15th probably another and on the 18th another one destroyed and also probably a Do 17. On August 28 1940 Cox was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 109s over Dover.

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

141 Squadron

Coxon joined the RAFVR about May 1939 in the Aircraft Crew Section, as an Airman u/t Aircrew. He was called up on September 1, completed training as an Air Gunner and he joined 141 Squadron at Dyce on August 20 1940.

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JOHN TEASDALE CRAIG

He moved to 410 (RCAF) Squadron at Ayr from 141 on August 2 1941. In 1942 Coxon was with Bomber Command, flying with 103 Squadron from Elsham Wolds, Lincolnshire. He failed to return from a raid on Essen on June 6 1942, in Wellington DV 699. He was then a Flight Sergeant. Coxon was 33. He is buried in Reichswald War Cemetery, Germany.

564573

Sgt

Pilot

Sgt

Pilot

British

501 Squadron

Craig successfully applied for pilot training and he was a Sergeant-Pilot with 111 Squadron at Northolt by December 31 1938. On May 18 1940 Craig destroyed a Bf 110 over Douai. His Hurricane was badly damaged and he made a crash-landing N of Vimy. Over Dunkirk on the 24th he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and on the 31st a Bf 109. On July 10 Craig probably destroyed two Do 17s, on the 25th damaged a Bf 109, on August 13 claimed a Do 17 shot down, on August 15 a Bf 110 destroyed, three Ju 88s and a Do 17 probably destroyed and three Do 17s damaged. Craig shot down a Do 17 on the 16th, damaged another on the 18th and damaged a Bf 110 on the 30th. Craig was shot down in combat with Bf 110s over Felixstowe on August 31. He baled out, injured, and was admitted to Epping Hospital. He was awarded the DFM (6.9.40), being then credited with at least eight enemy aircraft destroyed. He was posted to 56 OTU, Sutton Bridge on January 21 1941, as an instructor. He was killed on June 2 1941, when his Hurricane, W 9114, was in a mid-air collision with a Hurricane flown by Flight Sergeant I K J Bidgood (qv). Craig was 27. He is buried in Wittonle-Wear Cemetery, Co Durham.

Crabtree, from Sowerby Bridge, Yorkshire, joined the RAFVR about July 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740434). He was attached to 43 Squadron for training. Called up on September 1 1939, he joined 501 Squadron at Filton. The squadron flew to France on May 10 1940 but Crabtree followed next day with the rear party, in Bombay L 5813. As it prepared to land at Bétheniville, the aircraft’s nose went up. The pilot went round again. On the second approach the same thing happened, the pilot appeared to lose control and the Bombay went into a tail-slide and crashed. Three passengers were killed and six injured, including Crabtree. He was treated at the Casualty Clearing Station at Epernay and sent back to hospital in England. After recovering from his injuries, Crabtree next flew with 501 on September 24 1940, having previously acted briefly as a controller. He flew his one and only operational sortie on the 25th and made no further flights with 501 Squadron. He was declared non-effective sick on September 30. Crabtree was posted away to 57 OTU, Hawarden soon afterwards and made his first flight there on October 15 1940, as an instructor. In 1941 he was with 616 Squadron and on July 3 he was shot down over Lille, in Spitfire P 7980. He was captured by a German patrol, but escaped. He was sheltered by a French family and returt returned to England after several months, taking back with him detailed drawings of an arms factory, on cigarette papers. He received a Mention in Despatches. Crabtree was commissioned in June 1942 from Warrant Officer. He served with 600 Squadron (Beaufighters) and 216 Squadron (Dakotas). He was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. Crabtree was killed in a civil flying accident on June 24 1950. He was the pilot of a Percival Proctor that crashed at Tosside, Yorkshire. The aircraft was on a flight from West Hartlepool to Blackpool when it landed in a field at Brockthorn Farm, Tosside in mist. Witnesses reported that the pilot said he had lost his bearings and had a faulty radio. While attempting to take off about an hour after landing the aircraft hit a dry stone wall and exploded. All three passengers were also killed. The inquest, held at Settle, recorded a verdict of misadventure. At the time Crabtree was manager and an instructor at Greatham Airport, West Hartlepool.

EDWARD WILLIAM CRANWELL 141532

Pilot

British

607 Squadron Born on September 13 1914, Craig was educated at Winchester College and Pembroke College, Cambridge, where he obtained a BA in Law in 1936 and an MA in 1940. Before the war he was practising as a solicitor.

He joined 607 Squadron, AAF at Usworth in 1937 and was commissioned in May. He was embodied on August 24 1939. Craig was one of a section of three Gladiators that sighted a Do 18 flying boat 25 miles out to sea on October 16 1939. Their attacks inflicted such damage as to cause it to crash 50 miles out from the coast. The crew were picked up by a trawler and made PoWs. On November 13 1939 607 Squadron flew from Acklington to Croydon, going two days later to Merville in France. Craig was attached to 13 Squadron, based at Mons-en-Chaussee with Lysanders, on January 2 1940. He rejoined 607 three days later. On May 11 1940 Craig shared in the destruction of a Ju 87. The squadron was withdrawn to England on May 20 and re-assembled at Croydon on the 22nd. Craig served with 607 Squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. On August 15 1940 he probably destroyed a He 111 and a Bf 110. He was posted to RAF Turnhouse on December 18 1940, as a supernumerary on Ops duties. He took command of the squadron in March 1941. Craig was shot down whilst making a low-level attack on Le Touquet airfield on November 4 1941 and captured. In 1942 he attempted to walk out of Stalag Luft 3, disguised as a German guard, but was unsuccessful. At Oflag XXIB Craig was one of thirty-six officers who tunnelled their way out. With a companion, he walked south towards Gneisen but was recaptured by military police after three days. After returning to England in May 1945, Craig was released from the RAF later in the year. He received a Mention in Despatches (28.12.45) and was made an MBE (26.7.46), for distinguished service whilst a PoW. Craig returned to his law practice, later becoming a partner. He rejoined the AAF in 1947, firstly in the Secretarial Branch but later in the Fighter Control Branch. He died in 1974. PO (AAF) 28.5.37 FL (RAAF) 6.2.50

FO (AAF) 28.11.38

FO 24.8.39

FL 3.9.40

Pilot

British

610 Squadron

He was called up in late 1939, went to 3 ITW, Hastings and then to 11 EFTS, Perth. On June 15 1940 Cranwell went to 15 FTS, Brize Norton on No 10 Course, which moved in August to Chipping Norton and ended on September 23. On the 24th he was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 610 Squadron at Acklington on October 6. Cranwell was detached from 610 to RAF Acklington on December 14 1940, when the squadron moved to Westhampnett. In early 1941 he was injured in a crash and spent several months in hospital, after which he was posted to No 1 AACU, initially at Weston Zoyland and later at Aberporth. In June 1942 Cranwell volunteered for Bomber Command and did some training on Oxfords at Little Rissington. In July he converted to Wellingtons at 15 OTU, Harwell and in October he joined 102 Squadron at Pocklington on Halifaxes. Cranwell was commissioned from Warrant Officer in February 1943, finished his tour in July and was awarded the DFC (13.8.43). From July 1943 until February 1944 he was at 82 OTU, Ossington, as a Flight Commander, on fighter affiliation. In March he moved to 26 OTU, Wing on similar duties. In February 1945 Cranwell went to 17 OTU, Turweston, to convert to Wellingtons. In May he went to 1652 Heavy Conversion Unit, Acaster Malbis, to convert to Halifaxs and in June to the Glider Towing Training Unit at Matching. From July to October 1945 he served with 190 Squadron at Great Dunmow, flying Halifaxes on general transport duties. Cranwell was released from the RAF in late 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1993.

GEORGE DUDLEY CRAIG FL

Sgt

Cranwell joined the RAFVR in August 1938 (741969) and did his weekend flying at 21 E&RFTS, Stapleford Abbots.

PO 4.6.42 FO 4.12.42 FL 4.6.44

90285

111 Squadron

Craig was born in Newcastle-on-Tyne. He went to Wolsingham Grammar School, joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice, in January 1930 and passed out in December 1932, as a Fitter, Aero Engines.

DOUGLAS BARKER CRABTREE 125730

British

PO 6.2.43 FO 1.8.43 FL 1.2.45

HECTOR HUGH CRAWFORD 39904

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

235 Squadron

Born at Hawera on August 25 1916, Crawford went to New Plymouth Boys’ High School and he afterwards worked as a clerk until joining the Customs in 1937. Crawford learned to fly privately in early 1938 and in May 1939 he joined the Civil Reserve of Pilots. He was called up for the RNZAF at the outbreak of war. On October 26 he went to the Ground Training School at Weraroa, was posted to 2 EFTS, New Plymouth in late November and on December 18 1939 he went to 2 FTS, Woodbourne. After gaining his flying badge and being promoted to Sergeant, Crawford completed the course and was commissioned in early May 1940. He sailed in the SS Mataroa

FO (AAF) 30.5.47

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On May 8/9 another He 111 was damaged and on July 7/8 a Ju 88 and a He 111 were destroyed. Crew was awarded the DFC (29.7.41). Guthrie was posted away from 604 but Crew continued to find enemy aircraft at night. During the night of April 2/3 1942 he destroyed a He 111, on the 26/27th damaged another and on May 3/4 and 4/5th he destroyed Do 217s. Crew, who was made ‘A’ Flight Commander in May 1942, was awarded a Bar to the DFC (16.6.42). In October 1942 Crew became OC of the Radio Development Flight, conducting radio and radar anti-jamming trials and training. In March 1943 he joined 85 Squadron at Hunsdon, as a Flight Commander, and during the night of April 23/24 he damaged a Do 217 and on May 21/22 he shot down a FW 190. Crew took command of 96 Squadron at Church Fenton in June 1943. On January 4/5 1944 he shot down a Me 410 and damaged another, on February 13/14 destroyed a Ju 188 and on April 18/19 another Me 410. Between June and early August 1944 Crew shot down 21 V1s at night. He was awarded the DSO (26.9.44), credited with 13 enemy aircraft destroyed. 96 Squadron was disbanded on December 12 1944 and Crew went to RAF Staff College in January 1945 and was later granted a Permanent Commission. Between July 1948 and February 1950 Crew led 45 Squadron in operations against the terrorists in Malaya. He was awarded a Bar to the DSO (10.3.50). He held a series of appointments and commands prior to his retirement on March 3 1973, as an Air Vice-Marshal. Crew was made a CB (1.1.73). He died in August 2002.

for the UK on the 24th. After arriving on July 10, he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge. From there he was posted to No1 (Coastal) OTU, Silloth, from where he was sent on detachment to Prestwick on July 23, on No 2 Blenheim Course. On August 17 Crawford, with the course completed, returned to Silloth and was posted to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton next day. With ninety operational sorties carried out and a Do 18 shared on November 18 1940, Crawford was posted to 143 Squadron at Thornaby on July 14 1941. He moved to 272 Squadron at Kemble on August 19 and on the 30th took off in his Beaufighter from Portreath, bound for Gibraltar and then the Middle East, via Malta. After arriving at Edku in Egypt, Crawford was immediately attached to 252 Squadron and flew back to Malta to carry out operational sorties from Luqa against targets in Sicily and Sardinia. Crawford rejoined 272 Squadron in Egypt on October 8 1941 and began operations. On November 12 1941 he damaged a Ju 52, on the 16th damaged a Ju 87 and on the 18th he shared in the destruction of two Ju 52s. On December 19 he took off to strafe the Barce-Tocra road. His Beaufighter was damaged by ground fire and after coaxing it along, he finally made a crash-landing in the desert 50 miles northwest of El Mechili. Another pilot, whom Crawford had picked up in a similar plight, saw him and landed a mile away. After setting fire to their aircraft, Crawford and his navigator ran towards their would-be rescuer. As they came over a rise, they heard machine-gun fire. The Beaufighter took off and the two men were captured by a convoy of German armoured cars. They travelled for two days but at dawn on the third Crawford escaped after a sentry left him alone for a few minutes. The Germans chased him for half an hour but he eluded them by hiding next to a dead camel. Having injured his ankle, Crawford was soon unable to walk but he was found by some Bedouin tribesmen, who fed and cared for him. He met some British troops on the 27th and rejoined 272 Squadron four days later. On February 6 1942 Crawford was shot down by ground fire whilst making a low-level attack on enemy vehicles near Martuba. He attempted to land but crashed on uneven ground and the aircraft caught fire. Some time later his Navigator returned to the squadron. Although wounded, he had managed to get clear after the crash. He could see Crawford lying amongst the wreckage but because of his own wound, the intense heat and danger from exploding ammunition, he could not reach him. He was then unconscious or already dead. Crawford was reported by the Red Cross to have been buried in a military cemetery near Barce. After the war his remains were re-interred in Benghazi Military Cemetery.

PO 3.10.39 FO 3.10.40 FL 3.10.41 SL 29.9.43 SL 1.9.45 WC 1.7.52 GC 1.1.59 AC 1.7.65 AVM 1.7.69

JOHN LAWRENCE CRISP 112450

Air Gunner

British

141 Squadron

Cresswell, of Wollaton, Nottinghamshire, joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. He was called up on September 1 and after completing his gunnery course, he joined 141Squadron at Drem on September 10 1940. He was posted to 410(RCAF) Squadron at Ayr on July 13 1941and he was killed on August 30 1941, as a Flight Sergeant, operating in Defiants from Drem. Cresswell was 23. He was cremated at Nottingham Crematorium, West Bridgford.

EDWARD DIXON CREW 74700

FO

Pilot British

British

43 Squadron

On November 1 Crisp moved to 11 FTS, Wittering and completed his training at No 1 Armament Training Camp at Catfoss, from March 27 to April 28 1936. He then joined 18 Squadron at Upper Heyford. Crisp was posted to 49 Squadron at Bircham Newton on June 1 1936. He was dismissed from the RAF on June 8 1937 by sentence of a General Court Martial. Crisp joined the RAFVR at Portsmouth on May 28 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748440). He was called up on September 1 and reported to 3 ITW, Hastings on October 3. He moved on to 9 FTS, Hullavington on January 1 1940 and with the course completed, he went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 3. After converting to Hurricanes, Crisp joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere on July 6 1940 and made his first operational sortie three days later. During an action off Selsey on July 19 Crisp’s Hurricane, P 3468, was damaged in an attack by Feldwebel Blazytko of III/JG 27 but he returned to base, unhurt. Crisp damaged a Bf 110 on August 13. He was shot down by Bf 109s in an engagement off Bognor on August 16, in Hurricane L 1736. He baled out and broke his thigh in a heavy landing. He was posted to RAF Tangmere as non-effective sick. Crisp was sent to Princess Mary’s Hospital, Halton. on September 6 and was at No 1 Airmens’ Convalescent Depot, Blackpool from November 30 1940 to March 28 1941. He rejoined 43 Squadron, then at Drem, on May 22 1941. He was posted away to 122 Squadron at Ouston on July 21. Commissioned in November 1941, Crisp was killed with 122 on June 8 1942. He was 25 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 68.

DENIS GEORGE CRESSWELL Sgt

Pilot

Crisp joined the RAF on a short service commission in August 1935 (37387). He went to 2 E&RFTS, Filton on August 25 and afterwards to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on October 17, for a short disciplinary course.

PO 4.5.40 FO 4.5.41

751880

Sgt

604 Squadron Crew was born on December 24 1917 at Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire. He was educated at Felsted School and he went on to Downing College, Cambridge, where he obtained an MA in Anthropology and English Literature. He was a member of the University Air Squadron and was commissioned in the RAFVR in early October 1939.

APO 21.10.35

PO 26.8.36

PO 21.11.41

RONALD FREDERICK CROCKETT 79177

Crew was called to full-time service on November 8 1939. He was posted to 3 ITW, Hastings in November and moved on to RAF College FTS, Cranwell in January 1940. With training completed, he converted to Blenheims, firstly at Andover and later at 5 OTU, Aston Down, from June 22. Crew joined 604 Squadron at Gravesend on July 8 1940. He was detached to 11 Group from the 14th to the 19th for short R/T and elementary fighter attacks courses. By day on August 11 Crew shared in the destruction of a He 59 floatplane 30 miles from Cherbourg and on September 11 he shared in destroying a Do 18 flying boat, as it was being towed by an E-boat. In December 1940 Crew teamed up with Sergeant N H Guthrie, as his radar operator, and they had some success. During the night of April 4/5 1941 they destroyed a He 111, on the 8th damaged another, on the nights of the 24/25th and the 28/29th they shot down He 111s.

PO

Observer

British

236 Squadron

Crockett, of Acton, London, joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (755291). He was called up on September 1 and began his training at 4 ITW. He was posted to No 11 Air Observer Navigation School, Hamble on November 20, as an LAC. Crockett was on No 1 Air Observer Course, which ended on March 9 1940, after which he went to a B&GS. With training, completed, he was commissioned on May 5 1940 and joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island on July 15, probably from No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth. He was still with 236 in November 1940. Crockett was killed on September 7 1942, as a Flight Lieutenant with 230 Squadron, a flying boat unit based at Aboukir. He was 25 and is buried in Hadra War Memorial Cemetery, Alexandria, Egypt. PO 5.5.40 FO 5.5.41 FL 5.5.42

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PETER GUERIN CROFTS 33381

FO

Pilot

British

He rejoined 609 Squadron, then at Drem, on May 5 1940. Crook tore a ligament in his left knee on May 12. He had an operation on the 16th at Peebles Hydro Military Hospital. He resumed flying on the 30th. On July 9 Crook shared in the destruction of two Ju 87s and probably destroyed another, on the 13th he damaged a Do 17, on August 11 destroyed a Bf 110, on the 12th he destroyed two Bf 109s and probably destroyed a Bf 110, on the 13th shot down a Bf 109, on the 14th shared a He 111 and a Do 17, on September 27 shared a Bf 110 and on the 30th destroyed two Bf 109s and probably another. He was awarded the DFC (1.11.40). On November 10 1940 Crook was posted to CFS, Upavon for an instructors’ course, after which he went to 15 EFTS, Carlisle on December 15 1940, remaining there until April 25 1944, when he moved to 21 AFU at Wheaton Aston. On July 5 1944 Crook was posted to 5 AFU, Tern Hill, on September 5 to 41 OTU, Hawarden and on December 1 to 8 (Coastal) OTU, Dyce. On December 18 1944 Crook took off in a Spitfire IX, EN 662, to fly a mid-morning high-level photographic sortie. At 10.52 am HQ 13 Group reported to Dyce that a Spitfire had been seen to dive into the sea near Aberdeen from 20,000 feet. A search of the area picked up some of Crook’s flying clothing but he was never found. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 202. Crook wrote of his experiences in Spitfire Pilot, published in 1942. His portrait was drawn by Cuthbert Orde in November 1940.

615 and 605 Squadrons

Crofts was born in St George’s Square, London on January 2 1918. He was educated in Sevenoaks and at Wellington College and entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1937 as a Flight Cadet. He did not complete the course for some reason but was granted a short sevice commission in May 1938.He completed his flying training and joined the SHQ Staff at Gosport in September 1938. In mid-July 1940 Crofts was with 150 Squadron, flying Blenheims and he may have been in France when the squadron was with the AASF in France. Crofts probably volunteered for Fighter Command in August 1940. He went from 150 Squadron to 615 Squadron at Prestwick on September 3, then to 605 Squadron on the 18th. He was shot down by Bf 109s over Ticehurst on September 28. Crofts baled out but fell dead at Red Pale, a mile and a half from Dallington. He was probably machine-gunned as he floated down. His Hurricane, V 6699, crashed in a paddock at Earls Down and exploded. Crofts is buried in All Saints’ churchyard, Tilford, Surrey. There is a memorial cross on the spot where he fell, a few yards from Red Pale. APO 11.5.38 PO 17.9.38 FO 17.3.40

APO 25.8.39 PO 4.5.40 FO 9.12.40 FL 9.12.41

ERIC EUGENE CROKER 391826

Sgt

Pilot

New Zealander

HAROLD KAY CROOK

111 Squadron

63789

Sgt

Pilot

Born in Auckland on January 1 1917, Croker was educated at Henderson Valley Primary School and Mt Albert Grammar School. He went to work as an electrical apprentice with the Auckland Harbour Board.

He joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on June 17 and served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. Commissioned in April 1941, Crook went on to the RAFO in August 1947, with the rank of Squadron Leader. He died on March 20 1988. PO 9.4.41 FO 9.4.42 FL 9.10.43 SL (RAFO) 1.8.47

VALTON WILLIAM JAMES CROOK NZ 40203

Air Gunner

British

141 Squadron

The squadron went south to West Malling on July 12 and Crombie was in one of nine Defiants attacked by Bf 109s of III/JG 51 off Dover on July 19. His aircraft, L 6974, was shot down into the Channel. The pilot, Pilot Officer J R Kemp, and Crombie were both reported ‘Missing’. Crombie was 29. With no known grave, he is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 13.

DAVID MOORE CROOK Pilot

British

Air Gunner

Australian

264 Squadron

After the outbreak of war, he volunteered for aircrew duties and began his ground training at Weraroa on January 15 1940. After a Lewis gunnery course at the Air Observers’ School, Ohakea, he sailed for the UK in the SS Akaroa on March 23, arriving on May 9. Crook was at Uxbridge for a month before being posted to 264 Squadron at Duxford for further training. On July 26 1940 he was sent to 5 OTU, Aston Down, where he was awarded his air gunner’s badge and promoted to Sergeant. He then rejoined 264 Squadron on September 15 1940. Posted away on March 20 1941, Crook went to 3 Group Training Flight at Stradishall, leaving there for the Middle East in early April. He joined 37 Squadron at Shallufa, Egypt, to fly in Wellingtons. In June Crook’s aircraft was shot down into the sea and he was not picked up for 38 hours. With his tour completed in early September 1941, Crook returned to the UK and went to HQ 25 Group at Stormy Down, as an instructor. He received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.42). After a course at CGS, Sutton Bridge, he was posted to 7 AGS, Manby, to instruct. In late June 1942 Crook went to 1653 Conversion Unit at Polebrook and after a month moved to the Aircrew Pool at Snaith. With his crew, he flew from Lyneham in a Liberator, to join 160 Squadron at Aqir, Palestine.The squadron later moved to Egypt and in January 1943 became part of 178 Squadron at Shandur. Crook completed his third tour in June 1943, returned to the UK and was repatriated to New Zealand in September. He was with No 1 (RNZAF) Squadron at Whenuapai in early 1944 but transferred to the RAAF and left for Melbourne in June. He was discharged in mid-February 1945, as a Warrant Officer, for medical reasons. On December 22 1950 he died through drowning at Hawkesbury River, New South Wales, aged 37.

Crombie, of Lightwater, Surrey, joined the RAF in September 1939, mustered as a u/t Air Gunner. He completed his training and then joined 141 Squadron at Turnhouse in 1940.

90478 PO

Sgt

Born in Orange, New South Wales on May 11 1913, Crook went to New Zealand in 1937, to take part in a Government Building Scheme.

ROBERT CROMBIE Sgt

219 Squadron

Crook joined the RAFVR about July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741859). He was called up on September 1 1939, completed his training and was at 5 OTU in early June 1940.

In August 1938 he joined the Civil Reserve of Pilots. He was called up by the RNZAF at the outbreak of war and reported to the Ground Training School at Weraroa on December 18 1939. Croker went to No 1 EFTS, Taieri in mid-January 1940 and moved to No 1 FTS, Wigram on March 11. With his training completed, he sailed for the UK on July 12 in the RMS Rangitane, arriving on August 27. Croker arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge from No 1 RAF Depot; Uxbridge on September 11. He was unhurt when the undercarriage of his Hurricane, L 1789, collapsed on landing on September 24. He joined 111 Squadron at Drem on the 29th. He had flown fourteen operational sorties before being posted to 260 Squadron at Skitten on December 12 1940. Croker went to 41 Squadron at Catterick in May 1941. On a training flight on June 1, he crashed into the side of a hill and suffered severe head injuries. He was taken to Catterick Hospital. He died next day. Croker is buried in Catterick Cemetery, Yorkshire.

903506

British

609 Squadron

Crook, from Shrewsbury, was born in Huddersfield in 1914. He was at The Leys School, Cambridge and then Cambridge University. In July 1938 he joined 609 Squadron, AAF at Yeadon and made his first flight on August 2. He was called up on August 25 1939. Crook was posted to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on October 7 and was on No 15 Course, which began on the 9th. He arrived at 10 B&GS, Warmwell on April 24 1940 with the Advanced Training Squadron of 6 FTS, for the final stage of his course, which ended on April 27.

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MICHAEL ERNEST CROSKELL 124118

Sgt

Pilot

British

Later he was an assistant director at Elstree Film Studios. In 1935 Crossley joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio training on November 25, as a pupil pilot. On February 15 1936 he was posted to 11 FTS, Wittering and after completing the course he joined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on August 24. Immediately preceding the war Crossley spent some time as ADC to the Governor of Aden. He rejoined 32 in 1939 and on August 31 he was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander and made an Acting Flight Lieutenant on September 9 1939. From May 18 1940 the squadron used Abbeville as a forward base. On the 19th Crossley shot down a Bf 109, on the 22nd another, on the 23rd two more, on the 26th a Ju 88 and on June 8 he destroyed two He 111s on a patrol over France from Biggin Hill. Awarded the DFC (21.6.40), Crossley received it from the King at Biggin Hill. On July 20 1940 Crossley claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and shared a Bf 110, on the 25th he got a probable Bf 109, on August 12 two Bf 109s destroyed, on the 15th two Ju 88s, a Do 17 and another Do 17 shared, on the 16th a Bf 109, a Bf 110 and a Ju 88 destroyed, on the 18th a Bf 109 and a Ju 88 destroyed and a Do 17 damaged and on the 25th a Bf 109 and a Do 17 destroyed. Crossley was shot down twice in the Battle of Britain. On August 18 he baled out after being shot down by Bf 109s and landed at Gillingham. His Hurricane, N 2461, crashed at Wigmore. On August 24 he crashed at Lyminge after a combat over Folkestone. The Hurricane, P 3481, was written off but Crossley was unhurt. On August 16 1940 Crossley had been promoted to Acting Squadron Leader and given command of 32, when Squadron Leader J Worrall was posted away. He was awarded the DSO (20.8.40) and remained with the squadron until April 1941, when he was sent to America, as a test pilot with the British Air Commission. Back in the UK, Crossley led the Detling Wing in 1943. He contracted tuberculosis and was restricted to non-operational flying. Crossley was made an OBE (1.1.46) and released from the RAF in 1946, as a Wing Commander. He later went to South Africa, to manage a family business, growing trees to produce pit props. He died in his garden, suddenly, in December 1987 at White River, East Transvaal.

213 Squadron

Croskell joined the RAFVR in June 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741693). Awarded his flying badge in August 1939, he was called up on September 1. He went to 11 FTS, Shawbury on September 27 1939, for No 14 (RAFVR) Course, which ended on November 18. Croskell arrived at 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on December 31 1939, converted to Hurricanes and joined 213 Squadron at Wittering on February 3 1940. He was in ‘A’ Flight of the squadron. On May 17 1940 the flight flew down from Wittering to Biggin Hill and in the afternoon it escorted a Bombay transport of 271 Squadron across the Channel to Abbeville. Later in the afternoon the Hurricanes landed at Merville to refuel, taking off again at 17.45 hours to patrol Brussels and Verde-Brain. At 19.50 the flight returned to Biggin Hill, having seen no enemy aircraft all day. On May 18, 19, 20, 21 and 22 ‘A’ Flight flew to France from Biggin Hill each day, mounted patrols from Lille Marcq or Merville and returned to Biggin Hill each evening.The flight returned to Wittering on May 23. During this period ‘B’ Flight of 213 had been operating in France, attached to 79 Squadron at Merville. It also returned to Wittering on May 23. Over Dunkirk on May 29, Croskell probably destroyed a Ju 87. At the start of the Battle of Britain 213 Squadron was based at Exeter. On August 11 Croskell claimed the destruction of a Ju 88, a Bf 109 and probably a second Ju 88, on the 26th he damaged a Bf 110 and on September 11, flying from Tangmere, he destroyed a Bf 110. Croskell was shot down near Maidstone on September 15, in Hurricane P 3113, and baled out. This was the aircraft formerly used by 213’s CO, Squadron Leader D S MacDonald (qv), and carried the code letters AK-!!!. The three exclamation marks indicated enemy aircraft claimed by MacDonald. Croskell was posted to CFS Upavon for an instructors’ course in February 1941, after which he joined the instructing staff at 6 FTS, Little Rissington in April. In February 1942 he moved to No 1 Beam Approach School at Watchfield. Commissioned in May 1942, he remained there, instructing, until released from the RAF in March 1947. Croskell was commissioned in the RAFVR in December 1947 and instructed, as a civilian, until 1951, when he joined BEA, from which he retired in 1976. He died on January 15 2015. PO 27.5.42 FO 27.11.42

FL 27.5.44

APO 3.2.36 PO 25.11.36 FO 25.5.38 FL 25.5.40

JOHN DALLAS CROSSMAN

FO (RAFVR) 10.12.47

43282 PO

Pilot Australian

JAMES TERENCE CROSSEY 42805

PO

Pilot

British

In early 1939 Crossman unsuccessfully applied for a short service commission. A second attempt six months later went better and on August 12 1939 he sailed for Britain. Crossman arrived at 9 EFTS, Ansty on October 16 for his ab initio training, as a pupil pilot. He moved to RAF College FTS at Cranwell on April 10 1940. At the end of the course, he was posted direct to 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on July 14. He was detached on the 19th to Uxbridge, for a short R/T course, rejoining the squadron on the 22nd. After monoplane flying experience in a Magister back at the Sector Training Flight at Biggin Hill, the CO decided to send Crossman to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 3 for further training and conversion to Hurricanes. However, this was cancelled. Instead Crossman went on August 3 to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, driving himself in a car he had bought that had belonged to Pilot Officer G I Cherrington, killed in the Battle of France. Crossman rejoined 32 Squadron on August 26. He went north with it to Acklington but on September 12 was posted to 46 Squadron at Stapleford Tawney. On the 15th he probably destroyed a Do 17, in an engagement SE of London. On September 30 46 Squadron was jumped by Bf 109s and Crossman was shot down and killed, crashing in flames at Tablehurst Farm, Forest Row. He is buried in Chalfont St Giles churchyard, Buckinghamshire.

After completing his training, he went to 7 B&GS, Porthcawl on April 29 1940 and on to 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 13. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 249 Squadron at Leconfield on June 10 and served with it in the Battle of Britain. On September 15 1940 he probably destroyed a Do 17. The squadron sailed in the carrier HMS Furious on May 10 1941. At Gibraltar they transferred on to HMS Ark Royal on the 18th and three days later flew off to Ta Kali, Malta. On November 22 1941 Crossey claimed a Mc 202 destroyed and on December 24 he shared a Ju 88. In February 1942 Crossey left 249 and went to Cairo, from where he was posted to South Africa, as an instructor. He served at various Air Schools until August 21 1944, when he was posted back to the UK. He joined the Aircraft Delivery Flight at Redhill on October 15 but three weeks later went to 105 OTU, Bramcote, to convert to Dakotas. Crossey was posted to 216 Squadron at Cairo West on February 17 1945 and served with 26 Squadron at Akyab from March 28 until August 1 1945, when he returned to 216, then at Almaza, Egypt. Crossey was released in 1946 and later went to live in Malta, where he was Manager of Malta Airlines.

APO 10.4.40 PO 14.7.40

RICHARD GEORGE CROSSMAN

APO 23.10.39 PO 18.5.40 FO 18.5.41 FL 18.5.42

746701

MICHAEL NICHOLSON CROSSLEY FL

Pilot

British

32 and 46 Squadrons

Crossman was born on March 20 1919 at Mossman, Queensland. He was educated at Cook’s Hill Primary School and Newcastle Boys’ High School in New South Wales.

249 Squadron

Born in Johannesburg on January 24 1918, Crossey joined the RAF on a short service commission and he began his elementary flying training at 5 E&RFTS, Hanworth on August 14 1939, as a pupil pilot. Crossey was posted to 3 ITW, Hastings on October 24 and went on to 9 FTS, Hullavington on November 6.

37554

SL 11.8.41 WC 1.9.42

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

25 Squadron

Crossman, of Watford, Hertfordshire, joined the RAFVR about March 1939 as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. He was called up on September 1, completed his training and joined 25 Squadron at Debden in early October 1940. He later trained as a Radar Operator.

32 Squadron

Crossley was born on May 29 1912 at Halford, Warwickshire. He was educated at Eton. Afterwards he studied at the College of Aeronautical Engineering at Chelsea. After graduating in 1933, he was employed by the Aero Club, Brooklands.

During the night of May 5/6 1941, flying with Sergeant K B Hollowell in Beaufighter R 2156, Crossman was involved in the destruction of an unidentified enemy aircraft and probably a second N of the Wash.

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a CBE (1.1.63), KCB (1973) and appointed Gentleman Usher of the Scarlet Rod to the Order of the Bath in 1979. He died on December 1 1996.

Flying again with Hollowell on May 16/17 in R 2156, a He 111 was destroyed over the sea near Cromer and on June 4/5 they destroyed another He 111 over West Runton, in Beaufighter R 2154. Still with 25 Squadron, Crossman was killed on July 8 1941, as a Flight Sergeant, in Beaufighter R 2245. The pilot, Pilot Officer D W Thompson, was also killed. Crossman is buried in Watford Cemetery.

PO 11.4.40 FO 11.4.41 FL 11.4.42 AC 1.1.64 AVM 1.7.6 AM 1.1.73

SL 11.7.43

SL 1.8.47

WC 1.7.54

GC 1.7.59

IAN JAMES ALEXANDER CRUICKSHANKS HAROLD REGINALD CROWLEY 42971

PO

Air Gunner

British

80819

PO

Pilot British

Cruickshanks joined the RAFVR about September 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740646). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on No 6 Course, which ran from December 29 1939 to June 10 1940. He was commissioned and posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 66 Squadron at Coltishall on June 23.

Born on June 19 1915, Crowley joined the RAF as an Aircraft Apprentice in January 1931 (565409) and he passed out in December 1933. Crowley later remustered as an Air Gunner and was flying in Harts with 12 Squadron at Andover.

On August 20 Cruickshanks shared a Bf 110 and probably shared a second one and on September 9 he shared a He 111. Two days later he made a forced-landing NE of Ashford after being damaged in a combat and was slightly injured. He was posted away on September 29 1940 and joined 4 Ferry Pilot Pool on October 8. Cruikshanks was killed on June 8 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant, but the unit he was serving with is not known. He is is buried in Milverton Cemetery, Leamington Spa.

In September 1939 Crowley was with 64 Squadron at Church Fenton. When the squadron began to receive Spitfires in exchange for its Blenheims in April 1940, Crowley, then a Pilot Officer, moved to 219 Squadron at Catterick on May 22. With the advent of airborne radar and the Beaufighter, Crowley retrained as a Radar Operator. In early October 1940 he went on a short attachment to 600 Squadron at Redhill with a 219 Beaufighter, to test out the new radar equipment

PO 10.6.40 FO 10.6.41 FL 10.6.42

operationally. He later transferred to the Technical Branch, as a signals specialist. He stayed in the RAF after the war, holding responsible staff appointments in signals and communication. Crowley retired on July 1 1965, as a Wing Commander, retaining the rank of Group Captain. He died in 1984.

JOHN CRUTTENDEN 40895

PO

Pilot

British

With training completed, he was posted to No 1 AACU. He was on ‘Z’ Flight of the unit when it moved from Henlow to Watchet on May 1 1939. Cruttenden was posted from No 1 AACU to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 28 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere on June 9. On July 7 Cruttenden shared in the destruction of a Do 17. On this day he baled out after a glycol leak caused his engine to catch fire. He was shot down in combat with enemy aircraft ten miles S of the Isle of Wight on August 8 1940 and reported ‘Missing’. He was 20. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 7.

DENIS CROWLEY-MILLING PO

Pilot

British

43 Squadron

Cruttenden joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training on May 16 1938.

PO 17.1.40 FO 17.1.41 FL 1.12.41 SL 1.7.45 SL 1.9.45 WC 1.1.56

78274

66 Squadron

219 and 600 Squadrons

242 Squadron

Born at St Asaph, Flintshire on March 22 1919, CrowleyMilling was educated at Malvern College. He was an apprentice at Rolls Royce and he joined the RAFVR in November 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740885). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training, was commissioned in April 1940 and arrived at 5 OTU on the 20th. After converting to Gladiators and Spitfires, he was posted to 615 Squadron in France on May 14. After the squadron was withdrawn, Crowley-Milling was posted to 242 Squadron at Biggin Hill on June 6 1940. He went with it to France on June 8, to help cover the retreat of the Army to the Atlantic ports. The last of the 242 pilots left France on the 18th and went to their new base at Coltishall. On August 31 1940 Crowley-Milling claimed a He 111 destroyed and on September 7 a Bf 110. On this day his Hurricane, P 3715, was damaged in combat over the Thames Estuary and he made a forced-landing on an old aerodrome at Stow-St Maries. On September 15 Crowley-Milling destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 17th he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88. On February 8 1941 he shared a Do 17 off Clacton, on the 15th he damaged a Ju 88 and on April 1 he probably destroyed another. He was awarded the DFC (11.4.41). On June 13 1941 Crowley-Milling was posted to 610 Squadron at Westhampnett, as a Flight Commander. He was soon in action, sharing a Bf 109 on June 21 and probably destroying another four days later. On August 21 Crowley-Milling was shot down over France. With the help of the French underground, he evaded capture and eventually reached Spain, where he was interned for three months, during which time he contracted paratyphoid. After being released, he recovered in a Madrid hospital and arrived back in the UK in December 1941. Crowley-Milling returned to 610 and took over his old flight. Over Dieppe on August 19 1942, he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged a Bf 109 and a FW 190. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (22.9.42). On September 1 1942 Crowley-Milling was promoted and posted to Duxford, to form and command 181 Squadron, which he did until August 1943. He then briefly led 16 Typhoon Bomber Wing but came off operations in October to go to HQ USAAF at High Wycombe, to coordinate fighter operations with B 17 daylight attacks. He was awarded the DSO (24.12.43). When he came off operational flying, he had made 431 sorties. In June 1944 Crowley-Milling was posted to Air Ministry, Operational Requirements. He was granted a Permanent Commission in 1945 and took part in the first Battle of Britain flypast in that year. He commanded 6 Squadron from November 1947 to July 1950 and led the Odiham Meteor Wing in the 1953 Coronation flypast. Crowley-Milling retired from the RAF on July 29 1975, as an Air Marshal. He was made

APO 9.7.38 PO 16.5.39

LAWRENCE ELWOOD CRYDERMAN 41674

FO

Pilot

Canadian

242 Squadron

Cryderman, a school teacher from Islington, Ontario, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio flying course at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty on December 28 1938. He went to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 11 Course, which ran from March 20 to October 14 1939. Cryderman joined 242 Squadron at Coltishall from No 2 School of Army Co-operation Andover on August 31 1940. Completely lacking in Hurricane experience, he was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 5, to get some. He rejoined 242 on the 26th and flew his first sortie on October 5 1940. Cryderman was scrambled on February 8 1941, with two other pilots, to search for an enemy aircraft E of Clacton. They found it and an attack was made, damaging one of its engines. Soon afterwards, Cryderman called up, saying he was returning to base, then that he was landing on the sea. Despite searches, he was not found. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 30. APO 4.3.39 PO 2.10.39 FO 2.10.40

WILLIAM ARTHUR CUDDIE 42806

PO

Pilot

British

141 Squadron

Cuddie, of Regina, Canada, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio flying on August 3 1939. He completed his training at 6 FTS, Little Rissington, on No 19 Course, which ran from April 27 to August 3 1940.

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to Cooper. In 1959 he emigrated to New Zealand. Cukr (Cooper) died in Christchurch, New Zealand on October 24 1989.

He then went to 5 OTU, Aston Down and after converting to Defiants, he joined 141 Squadron at Turnhouse on August 19. He was killed on October 3 1943, as a Squadron Leader with 46 Squadron, then based in the Middle East. Cuddie was flying a Beaufighter in an attack on a convoy off Kos. L E M Coote (qv) was lost in the same aircraft. With no known grave, Cuddie is remembered on the Alamein Memorial, Column 267.

Sgt 6.8.40 PO 1940 F/L 1/7/42

REGINALD WALKER CULLEN APO 23.10.39 PO 3.8.30 FO 3.8.41 FL 3.8.42

752429

VACLAV ERIC CUKR

Cullen was born in Northampton on June 2 1919. He joined the RAFVR in May 1939, as an Aircrafthand. Called up on September 1 1939, he was sent to RAF Wittering, where he joined 23 Squadron.

107245

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

310, 43 and 253 Sqdns

Cukr was born on October 16 1913 in Prague. On leaving school he trained as an electrician but on October 1 1932 joined the Military Aviation Academy at Prostejov. He graduated on June 15 1934 and was posted to the 2nd Squadron of the 1st Air Regiment, based at Prague-Kbely. On September 15 1935 he was assigned to the Military Aviation College, based at the same site. On July 1 1937 he was posted to 85 Bomber Squadron of the 6th Air Regiment, also based at the same airfield and also at Havlickuv Brod.

AC

Air Gunner

British

23 Squadron

He remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and on September 4 Cullen began gunnery training with the squadron. In March 1940 embarkation orders came for the Middle East and then Finland but both were cancelled. In June 1940 the squadron moved to Ford and began flying night patrols from Tangmere. By November 1940 23 was intruding by night over the French airfields, often dropping anti-personnel bombs. Late in 1940 Cullen was posted to Bomber Command, as a Sergeant, and joined 35 Squadron at Linton-on-Ouse. On January 9 1941 he was captured by the Germans after baling out over Alderney in the Channel Islands. Cullen was sent to Dulag Luft for interrogation. Two weeks later he went to Stalag Luft 1. During his captivity he was confined in the PoW camps at Stalag Luft 1, 3, 4 and 6. (PoW No 425). The final four months of the war were spent on the road and the last camp was vacated ahead of the Russian advance. Cullen was liberated in early June 1945 by the 6th Airborne Division He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Warrant Officer.

When the Germans took over Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939, the Czech Air Force was disbanded and Cizek was demobilized. With other former airmen, on the night of June 13 1939, he smuggled himself aboard a coal train near Kuncice, Ostrava, which took them over the border into Poland. There he reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate in Krakow which arranged for onward travel to France. He sailed, from F, on July 27 1939, aboard the Kastelholm. He was accepted into l’Armée de l’Air and on October 6 1939 was assigned to CIC Chartres for retraining on French equipment. On March 8 1940, after completing an airgunnery course, at Montpelier, he was posted as an operational pilot, with the rank of Caporel Chef, to GCII/3 which was equipped with MS-406 aircraft and later with Dewoitine D-520s. On May 20 Cukr claimed the probable destruction of a Do 17, on the 22nd a Ju 87 destroyed and a Hs 126 shared, on the 24th and 26th he shared in the destruction of two Do 17s and on June 4 he destroyed a Bf 109 and shared a He 111. On June 8, during an attack on a Ju 87B, he received a head wound which nearly blinded him. He had to abort the attack and make a belly-landing in a field near Vailly, an area already being overrun by advancing forward units of the German Wehrmacht. He managed to evade capture and crossed back into French held territory where he collapsed unconscious. He was found by French soldiers who took him to the hospital at Chateau-Thierry. After treatment he left to avoid capture by the advancing Germans. During the Battle of France Cukr was credited with the destruction of eight Luftwaffe aircraft, making him the 3rd most successful Czechoslovak pilot of that Battle. With the fall of France imminent, Cukr, with other Czechoslovak airmen, was released from l’Armée de l’Air service and made his way to Port Vendres from where he was evacuated by ship to North Africa on June 24. He then boarded a ship bound for Gibraltar where he transferred to the Neuralia which arrived in Liverpool on July 12 1940. He was accepted into the RAFVR on August 6 and on the following day he joined 310 Squadron at Duxford from the Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford. He was sent to 6 OTU on August 17, converted to Hurricanes and joined 43 Squadron at Usworth on September 12. During combat on September 23 his aircraft was badly damaged and he had to make an emergency landing at Biggin Hill. He went to 253 Squadron at Kenley on or about September 28. He made his first operational sortie on the 29th. Commissioned in early 1941, Cukr remained with 253 but the injuries he had received in France started to affect his flying. Following medical tests he had to cease operational flying and, on March 12 1941, he was posted to 52 OTU at Debden as an instructor. During 1942 Cukr was posted to the Test Unit at Kemble, where he went on a conversion course to become a test pilot on multi-engined aircraft and on January 15 1943 he was posted to 20 MU at Aston Down as a test pilot for the SOA technical unit. He also commanded a small flight which converted multi-engined pilots to singleengined fighters. O July 4 1943, during a test flight in a special Mustang I (AG489) Cukr was in collision with a Spitfire flown by a pupil from 52 OTU. He managed to bale out but was at low altitude and the parachute failed to fully deploy. He landed in some tree-tops but was seriously injured. He was admitted to the RAF Hospital at Wroughton and then spent the remainder of the war in the RAF Rehabilitation Unit at Loughborough. He was invalided out of the RAF on August 13 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant and returned to Czechoslovakia. Initially he remained in the Czechoslovak Air Force, with the rank of Major, but, because of his injuries he was, eventually, invalided out. In October 1945 he became Vice-Chairman of Svazu Lectu (the Airmen’s Association of Czechoslovakia). Following the communist takeover of Czechoslovakia in February 1948 Cukr was aware that he was going to be arrested because of his RAF service. Despite the difficulties caused by his injuries, he escaped, with the assistance of five former RAF colleagues, over the border into the American Zone of Germany in May 1948. In Germany Cukr joined the Czechoslovak Intelligence Office (CIO) which was a news organisation working against the communists. He remained with the CIO until 1957 when it was disbanded due to infiltration by communist agents. Cukr returned to England where he obtained British Nationality and changed his name

JAMES DOUGLAS CULMER 177211

Sgt Air

Gunner

British

25 Squadron

Culmer was born on March 15 1913. He joined 600 Squadron, AAF, as an Aircrafthand, about October 1938 (800632). Called to full-time service on August 24 1939, he remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and completed his training. He was with 600 Squadron until May 1940, when he was posted to 25 Squadron at North Weald, serving with it throughout the Battle of Britain. On the night of November 15/16 1940, Culmer was gunner in a Blenheim, patrolling over Essex, with Sergeant S V Holloway, pilot, and AC F Fildes, radar operator. A He 111 was suddenly illuminated by a searchlight about 50 yards astern of Culmer’s aircraft. He opened fire, causing the Heinkel to break up. He was awarded the DFM (24.12.40). Culmer was with 25 Squadron until 1942. He was commissioned from Warrant Officer in August 1944 and stayed on in the RAF after the war, in the Aircraft Control Branch. He retired on March 15 1963, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1990. PO 24.8.44 FO 24.2.45 FO 24.8.46 FL 18.5.56

JOHN HENRY CULVERWELL 529270

Sgt Pilot

British

87 Squadron

Born in London on September 30 1914, Culverwell joined the RAF on February 18 1936, as an Aircrafthand. He was posted to 3 S of TT on May 8, went to 2 Wing, Henlow on July 3 and after passing out as a Flight Rigger, he returned to 3 S of TT and also qualified as a Metal Rigger. Culverwell was then posted, as an AC 1, to the School of Air Gunnery, on the maintenance staff. He applied for pilot training and was remustered as a Metal Rigger u/t Pilot on June 26 1939. His rank was then Corporal. He did his elementary flying training at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham. On September 2 1939 he moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 14 Course for intermediate and advanced flying training. The course ended on January 27 1940 and Culverwell went to the 11 Group Pool, St Athan for further training and conversion to Hurricanes.He joined 87 Squadron in France on March 29 1940. The squadron was withdrawn to Debden on May 24. Culverwell was killed in a night-flying accident at RAF Exeter on July 25 1940. He took off and appeared to climb too steeply, stalled and crashed back into the ground, in

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Hurricane P 3596. He is buried in Cathays Cemetery, Cardiff. In 1988 his widow died and was buried in the same grave.

In January 1943 Cunningham was given command of 85 Squadron at Hunsdon and Rawnsley went with him, as Navigation Leader. During the night of June 13/14 1943 they shot down a FW 190 and on August 23/24 and September 8/9 two more. The team’s final successes came in early 1944, with an Me 410 destroyed during the night of January 2/3, a Ju 188 damaged on February 20/21 and a Ju 88 probably destroyed on the 23/24th. Cunningham was posted in March 1944 to 11 Group, Uxbridge as Group Captain Night Ops. He was awarded a second Bar to the DSO (3.3.44) and released from the RAF in 1945, as a Group Captain. In addition to his British awards, he received the Order of Patriotic War 1st Class (USSR) and the Silver Star (US) (14.6.46). Cunningham rejoined de Havilland and had a most distinguished career involving the development and testing of new aircraft, particularly the Comet. He rejoined the AAF and commanded 604 Squadron from July 1946 until 1948. His portrait was done by Eric Kennington in 1941. He was made an OBE in 1951 and a CBE in 1963. Cunningham died on July 21 2002. His name is on a memorial plaque at Whitgift School.

ALFRED BERNARD CUMBERS 118713

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

141 Squadron

Born in Southend in 1908, Cumbers joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (746780). He was called up on September 1 and with his training as an air gunner completed, he joined 141 Squadron at West Malling on July 14 1940. During the night of September 16 Cumbers was in Defiant N 1552 with Flying Officer J Waddingham. They destroyed a He 111 and probably shot down another into the sea. Cumbers was awarded the DFM (18.3.41). He later retrained as a Navigator Radar and was commissioned from Warrant Officer in March 1942. Cumbers was with 89 Squadron in 1942, in the Middle East, still flying with Waddingham. On the night of July 4/5 they destroyed a Ju 88 NE of Port Said, in Beaufighter X 7719. They were with an 89 Squadron detachment in Malta in September 1942. On the 26th they crashed in Beaufighter V 8268 because of engine failure. Both men were pulled from the burning aircraft but Waddingham died from his injuries next day. Cumbers was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on December 28 1985.

PO (AAF) 7.5.36 FO (AAF) 5.12.37 FO 24.8.39

JOHN LAURENCE GILCHRIST CUNNINGHAM 90194

FL

Pilot

British

603 Squadron

Cunningham was born at Burntisland, Fife in 1917. He was educated at Edinburgh Academy and joined 603 Squadron, AAF in 1935. He was embodied on August 23 1939 and was detached from 603 to RAF Leuchars on November 4 1939, on experimental work.

PO 17.3.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 17.3.44

JAMES CUNNINGHAM 1052182

LAC

Radar Operator

British

29 Squadron

He returned to 603 on November 12 and he damaged a He 111 on December 7, when he was with a 603 detachment protecting Montrose airfield. Cunningham was detached from 603 to RAF Turnhouse in June 1940, for controller duties. He rejoined the squadron on July 15 and on the 20th he shared in shooting down a Do 17 into the sea thirty miles E of Aberdeen. He failed to return from a combat over Dover on August 28 1940 and was reported ‘Missing’. He was 23. Cunningham is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 4.

Cunningham joined the RAFVR in June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. It is probable that he volunteered for flying duties and was sent on a short radar course at RAF Yatesbury, after which he joined 29 Squadron at Digby on September 26, as an LAC Radar Operator. He is known to have flown two operational sorties, with Pilot Officer D J Anderson, pilot, and Pilot Officer P Byng-Hall, gunner, on September 28 1940 and with Flying Officer L G H Kells, pilot, and Sergeant R Lilley, gunner, on October 8 1940. No further service details traced.

PO (AAF) 6.5.35 FO (AAF) 6.11.36 FO 23.8.39 FL 12.3.40

WALLACE CUNNINGHAM JOHN CUNNINGHAM 90216 FL

Pilot

British

80545

PO

Pilot British

19 Squadron

604 Squadron Cunningham was born in Glasgow on December 4 1916. He joined the RAFVR in September 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741899).

Cunningham was born at Addington on July 27 1917 and educated at Whitgift School, Croydon. In 1935 he became an apprentice at the de Havilland Aircraft Co.

Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 11 FTS, Shawbury on No 17 Course, which ran from November 20 1939 to June 8 1940. He was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 10 and after sconverting to Spitfires, he joined 19 Squadron at Fowlmere on June 25. On August 16 Cunninhgam claimed a Bf 110 destroyed, on September 7 a He 111 destroyed and another damaged, on the 9th a Bf 109 destroyed, on the 15th a Bf 109 destroyed and a Bf 110 shared, on the 18th a Ju 88 shared and on November 15 a Bf 110 shared. He was awarded the DFC

He joined 604 Squadron AAF in November 1935 and after learning to fly, he was asked by de Havilland’s to test light aircraft. He was soon appointed to be a full-time assistant test pilot under Geoffrey de Havilland. On August 24 1939 he was mobilised and in September was made ‘B’ Flight Commander. He was detached from 604 to AFDU, Northolt on May 17 1940 and then to RAF Tangmere on the 20th and later to the Royal Aircraft Establishment at Farnborough. These detachments appear to have been in connection with trials of a bomb, designed to be dropped on enemy bombers. Cunningham rejoined 604 on July 8 1940. His first victory was destroying a Ju 88 on the night of November 19/20 1940, with Sergeant J R Phillipson as radar operator. On December 2 Cunningham was detached to No 1 Blind Approach School, Watchfield, on No 6 Course. He returned to 604 on the 16th and destroyed a He 111 on the night of December 23/24 and on January 3/4 1941 he probably destroyed another, both with Phillipson. Cunningham then teamed up with Sergeant C F Rawnsley and they were to become the best-known British night-fighting partnership of the war. During the night of January 12/13 1941 they damaged a He 111, on February 15/16 destroyed a He 111, on March 12/13 damaged a Ju 88 and a He 111, on April 3/4 and 7/8th destroyed He 111s, on the 9/10th shot down a He 111 and damaged another, on the 11/12th shot down a He 111 and probably another and on the 15/16th shot down three He 111s. On May 3/4 1941 and the 7/8th Cunningham and Rawnsley destroyed He 111s, on May 31/June 1 another He 111, on August 22/23 they shot down a He 111 and damaged another and on September 1/2 they shot down a Ju 88. Cunningham was awarded the DFC (28.1.41), the DSO (29.4.41) and a Bar to the DFC (19.9.41). He was given command of 604 Squadron in August 1941. On April 4 1942 Cunningham and Rawnsley damaged a He 111 in a daylight engagement and destroyed another on May 23, also by day. The two men were rested in July 1942 and they were posted to 81 Group, to direct the work of night-fighter OTUs. Cunningham handed over command of 604 and was awarded a Bar to the DSO (24.7.42).

(8.10.40). On July 21 1941 he damaged a Bf 109 on a sweep over France. About this time Cunningham was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant. On August 28 1941 the squadron was escorting Blenheims on a low-level attack on shipping in Rotterdam harbour. Cunningham was shot down by ground fire and taken prisoner. He was in several different camps in Germany until freed by the Russians near Berlin. He was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant, and went into engineering. Cunningham later became vice-president of a Glasgow engineering company. He died on October 4 2011 in Scotland. PO 8.6.40 FO 1.6.41 FL 1.6.42

WILLIAM GEORGE CUNNINGTON 740754

Sgt

Pilot

British

607 Squadron

Cunnington joined the RAFVR about October 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1 1939, completed his training and was at 7 B&GS, Stormy Down in May 1940, possibly as a staff pilot. He was attached to 4 Ferry Pilot Pool on May 17 but returned to 7 B&GS on the 20th.

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CHRISTOPHER FREDERICK CURRANT

He joined 607 Squadron at Usworth in early June 1940. He shared in the destruction of a He 111 off Sunderland on August 15 and on September 15 Cunnington shared in destroying two Ju 88s. He was posted from 607 to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on October 19 1940, to join the carrier HMS Argus on the 23rd. Cunnington did not go to Uxbridge but reported direct to the carrier at King George Dock, Glasgow. In mid-November he was one of thirteen pilots in the carrier, heading for Malta. At dawn on November 17 1940 the first six Hurricanes took off, Cunnington amongst them. Led by a FAA Skua, they reached their first landfall, Galite Island, safely but nearly half an hour late and running low on fuel. They took off on the final leg led by a Sunderland. One of the Hurricanes ran out of fuel, the pilot baled out and was picked up by the Sunderland, which then hurried on to catch up with the others. By this time Cunnington had run out of fuel. He baled out but the Sunderland failed to find him. Cunnington is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 13.

43367

Sgt

Radar Operator

British

29 Squadron

No further service details traced.

JOHN CURCHIN PO

Pilot

British

British

605 Squadron

He was with 46 Squadron at Kenley in 1937 and with 151 Squadron at North Weald in 1939. Commissioned on April 1 1940, Currant joined 605 Squadron the same day. On May 22 he shot down a He 111, on a patrol S of Arras. His Hurricane was hit by return fire and he made a crash-landing. After burning his aircraft, he made his way to Calais on foot and returned to England by sea. Currant rejoined his squadron at Hawkinge, with a broken nose. On August 15 1940 Currant claimed two He 111s destroyed and probably another, on September 8 a Bf 109 and a Do 17 damaged, on the 9th he shared in the destruction of a Bf 109 and a Bf 110, on the 11th he claimed a He 111 destroyed and four others damaged. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on September 5 and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on the 13th. On September 12 Currant shared a Do 17, on the 15th he claimed a Bf 109 and two Do 17s destroyed and a He 111 and three Do 17s damaged, on the 27th a Bf 110 destroyed and a Bf 109 damaged and on the 28th another Bf 109 destroyed. On October 4 and 8th he shared Ju 88s and on October 15 he damaged two Bf 109s. Currant was awarded the DFC (8.10.40) and Bar (15.11.40).When Squadron Leader McKellar was killed on November 1, Currant took temporary command of 605. He destroyed a Bf 109 on November 15. Currant relinquished his temporary command of the squadron on November 29, when the new CO came. He got a Bf 109 on December 1. In early 1941 Currant was posted to 52 OTU, Debden and in July he was CFI. A return to operations came on August 14 1941, when he took command of 501 Squadron at Ibsley. He appeared briefly, as himself in the film ‘The First of the Few’, filmed at Ibsley. Currant damaged a Bf 109 on November 8 and destroyed another on April 17 1942. He was promoted to Acting Wing Commander in June and appointed to lead the Ibsley Wing. He was awarded the DSO (7.7.42). From February 15 1943 until July 24 1944 Currant commanded 122 Wing TAF. He was awarded the C de G (Belg) (9.4.43) and a Mention in Despatches (14.1.44). He stayed in the RAF and was a graduate of the Joint Services Staff College and the RAF Staff College. Currant retired on January 11 1959, as a Wing Commander. He died on March 12 2006.

Cupitt joined the RAFVR in June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. It is probable that he volunteered for flying duties and was sent on a short radar course to RAF Yatesbury, after which he joined 29 Squadron at Digby in September, as a radar operator.

42396

Pilot

Born in Luton on December 14 1911, Currant joined the RAF in 1936 as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot (580097). He began training on January 6 1936, as a pupil pilot.

THOMAS CUPITT 1052312

PO

609 Squadron

Curchin’s father was a British naval architect who was sent to Australia in 1917 in connection with the building of shipping to counteract the 1917 U-Boat campaign. Mrs Curchin accompanied him and their son, John, was born in Hawthorn, near Melbourne, on January 20 1918. The family returned to England after the war and settled in Enfield. John Curchin went to Merchant Taylors’ School. In 1939 he joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying on June 12 1939 at 30 E&RFTS, Air Schools Ltd. at Burnaston, near Derby, as a pupil pilot. Curchin was at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge from August 7 to the 28th for a short induction course. He went on to 3 FTS; South Cerney for his intermediate and advanced training, the course began on September 23. With the course completed on March 26 1940, Curchin went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on April 6. He converted to Blenheims and was posted to 600 Squadron on May 4 and joined the squadron at Manston on the 8th. He moved to 609 Squadron at Northolt on June 11. He shared a He 111 on July 12 and crashed on landing from a routinepatrol on the 15th, in Spitfire P 9467, unhurt. Curchin shot down a Bf 110 and damaged another on August 8, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 25th and destroyed a Bf 109 and probably a Do 17 on September 7. He shared in the destruction of two Do 17s on the 15th, he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on the 24th, destroyed a He 111 and shared another on the 25th and destroyed another He 111 on the 26th. Curchin was awarded the DFC (1.11.40) and decorated by the King in February 1941. Appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on April 3, he destroyed a Bf 109 and shared another on May 8. On June 4 1941 609 Squadron was ordered to search for Flying Officer D G Gribble of 54 Squadron, who had baled out into the sea during a sweep of the Calais/Dunkirk/Boulogne area. The squadron was surprised by Bf 109s and Curchin crashed into the sea off Dover, after colliding with a Bf 109 of Stab/JG 53, piloted by Feldwebel H Ruhl. Curchin’s body was never found. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 13.

PO 1.4.40 FO 5.12.40 FL 23.6.41 SL 23.9.42 WC 1.7.47

FRANK WILLIAM CURTIS 746769

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

25 Squadron

Curtis joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. Called up on September 1, he completed his training as an Air Gunner and was with 25 Squadron by May 25 1940. Curtis retrained as a radar operator. On the night of April 9 1941 Curtis was in Beaufighter R 2122 of 25 Squadron, piloted by Flying Officer B D Bennett. They destroyed a Ju 88 of NJG 2 near Cottesmore, Rutland. In 1942 Curtis was a Navigator Radar with 89 Squadron in the Middle East. In October he teamed up with Warrant Officer H F W Shead. On December 21 they destroyed a He 111, a Ju 88 and probably a second, on January 8 1943 they shot down a He 111, on the 21st they damaged a Ju 88 and on March 16 destroyed a Ju 88. Curtis was awarded the DFM (16.2.43). In February 1943 he was promoted to Warrant Officer. On June 6 1943 the aircraft crewed by Shead and Curtis crashed in the desert. Shead was severely injured and it may be that injuries sustained in this incident prevented Curtis from flying again. His logbook contains no entries after that date. No further service details traced.

APO 5.8.39 PO 6.4.40 FO 6.4.41

ALBERT GEORGE CURLEY 747968

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

141 Squadron

JOHN WINTRINGHAM CUTTS 40804

FO

Pilot

British

222 Squadron

Curley, of Bushey, Hertfordshire, joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed training as an Air Gunner and was with 141 Squadron in June 1940.

Cutts, of Felpham, Sussex, joined the RAF in 1938 on a short service commission and began his training on April 4 1938, as a pupil pilot.

The squadron went south in July and Curley was in one of the nine Defiants attacked by Bf 109s of III/JG 51 off Dover on July 19. His aircraft, L 6995, was shot down into the Channel. The pilot, Pilot Officer R A Howley, and Curley were both reported ‘Missing’. Curley was 33 years old and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 13.

He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on June 17 1940 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 222 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on the 28th. Cutts made his first operational sortie on July 5. On the 25th he made a forced-landing four miles N of base after an engagement with He 111s off Mablethorpe, during which he shared in the probable destruction of one.

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Czernin was at Oundle School from 1923 to 1930. After leaving, he worked at an engineering firm for a year and then in September 1931 went to Southern Rhodesia, to work on a tobacco plantation. Czernin joined the RAF on a short service commission in April 1935, using the name Beckett. He did his flying training at 6 FTS, Netheravon and on February 24 1936 joined 57 Squadron at Upper Heyford. He moved to 83 Squadron on December 5 1936 and on August 16 1937 he went on to the Class ‘A’ Reserve. Czernin was recalled at the outbreak of war and was posted to No 1 Ferry Pilots’ Pool, Hucknall on September 22 1939. He arrived at 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on December 10, converted to Hurricanes and was posted to 504 Squadron at Debden on January 12 1940, joining the squadron on the 23rd. He moved to 213 Squadron at Wittering on February 6 and on May 13 joined 85 Squadron in France. On the 16th his Hurricane was hit by return fire from a Bf 109 and he made a forcedlanding, returning on foot to Lille-Seclin. On the 19th Czernin claimed two Do 17s and a He 111 destroyed and a He 111 damaged and on the 20th a Hs 126 destroyed. He and other pilots arrived at RAF Northolt from France on the 20th. Czernin left 85 Squadron on the 27th and was posted to 17 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on June 8 1940. He flew a Hurricane out to France on the 9th, to join the squadron at Le Mans. Czernin destroyed a He 111 on June 12 and probably a Bf 109 on the 14th. The squadron was withdrawn to England on the 19th. On July 12 he claimed a Do 17 destroyed, on the 24th and August 8 two Ju 88s damaged, on the 18th a Bf 109 damaged, on the 21st a Ju 88 damaged and on the 25th two Bf 110s destroyed and another damaged. On September 3 Czernin claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and probably a second, on the 5th a Bf 109, a He 111 and probably another, on the 11th a Bf 110 destroyed, on the 19th a Ju 88 shared, on the 24th a probable Bf 109 and on the 27th a Bf 110 destroyed. He was awarded the DFC (1.10.40). Czernin damaged a Do 17 on October 14, shared in the destruction of a Do 215 on the 24th, shared a probable Do 17 on the 28th and got a probable Bf 109 on the 30th. Czernin was shot down by Adolf Galland on November 17 1940, whilst engaged with Bf 110s attacking Wattisham. He baled out, slightly wounded, and his Hurricane, V 7500, crashed and burned out just W of Bradfield Church. In the engagement Czernin damaged a Bf 110, which crashed into the sea off Aldeburgh. Appointed as ‘A’ Flight Commander on March 23 1941, Czernin was posted away to 52 OTU, Debden on May 31, as OC ‘A’ Squadron. Promoted to Acting Squadron Leader in mid-December, he commanded 65 Squadron for a few days, was then posted to command 222 Squadron on December 22, he left that to be attached to 41 Squadron on January 19 and then on February 28 1942 he was posted to India. Initially at 301 MU, he took command of 146 Squadron at Dinjan on March 16. Czernin built the squadron up to a good operational standard before he was posted to HQ 224 Group as a Staff Officer in Operations. He returned to the UK in April 1943 and went to HQ 28 Group at Uxbridge. On September 30 Czernin was officially transferred to an Air Ministry Unit but in fact had gone to the Special Operations Executive. For the next eight months he trained for warfare behind enemy lines and on June 13 1944 he was parachuted into enemy-occupied Northern Italy, near the Austrian frontier. Czernin operated secretly until returning to the UK in late 1944. He was awarded the MC (1.12.44). On March 21 1945 he went on a second mission and was dropped just south of the Swiss border. His work there culminated in the surrender of the German forces at Bergamo. After a short time at Bentley Priory, Czernin went for a flying refresher course at Tangmere. He was released from the RAF on October 2 1945, as a Squadron Leader and was awarded the DSO (2.11.45). Czernin did a variety of jobs in the post-war years, his final one being Sales Manager for Fiat in England. He died in his sleep on October 6 1962. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in September 1940.

The squadron moved to Hornchurch on August 29 and on the 30th Cutts shared in the destruction of a He 111. On the 31st he claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed and September 3 he destroyed another. On September 4 Cutts was shot down by Bf 109s over Maidstone. His Spitfire, X 4278, crashed and burned out on Amberfield Farm, Chart Sutton and Cutts was reported ‘Missing’. He was 20. He was remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 5. His remains were eventually identified and he is buried in Sittingbourne Cemetery in a grave originally marked as “unknown airman”. APO 4.6.38 PO 4.4.39 FO 3.9.40

FRANCISZEK CZAJKOWSKI 76692

PO

Pilot

Polish

151 Squadron

Born in Poland on September 20 1916, Czajkowski was in the PAF before the war. He escaped to England and was commissioned in the RAFVR in April 1940. He was posted from the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool on July 22 to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum, for testing and grading. From there Czajkowski then went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 29th. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 151 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on August 12 and flew his first sortie on the 16th. On the 18th Czajkowski destroyed a Bf 110 over the Crouch Estuary, on the 24th he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and on August 31 he destroyed a Bf 109 but was himself shot down in combat over the Thames Estuary, in Hurricane P3301. He made a forced-landing at Foulness, wounded in the right shoulder and was admitted to Shoeburyness Hospital. Czajkowski returned to 151 from hospital on November 14 1940, before going on sick leave. He rejoined 151 on December 25, to await a Medical Board, pending a posting to 43 Squadron. He joined 43 Squadron at Drem on February 16 1941. Czajkowski made a forcedlanding at Longtown aerodrome, near Carlisle, on April 19 1941, after his engine blew up when he was climbing on high boost. He was badly injured on June 2 1941 in another crash. He died on October 25 1942 from injuries received when his hospital at Torquay was bombed. He is buried in the Higher Exeter Cemetery. Czajkowski was awarded the KW (10.9.41) and a Bar (20.2.43). PO 2.4.40 F0 1.3.41

JERZY MICHAL CZERNIAK P 1283

PO

Pilot

Polish

302 Squadron

Czerniak was born on March 21 1913 and joined the PAF on January 2 1936, as a cadet. In September 1939 he was serving with 123 Eskadra and during the brief fighting in Poland he destroyed a Bf 110, shared in the probable destruction of another and also shared in destroying a He 111. After the fall of Poland, Czerniak went to France and joined l’Armée de l’Air. In June 1940 he was with Groupe de Chasse I/145 and on the 10th he destroyed two Do 17s. When France capitulated, Czerniak made his way to England. He joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield on August 20 from the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool. He was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 2 and after converting to Hurricanes, he rejoined the squadron on the 26th. Awarded the KW (23.12.40), Czerniak moved to the newly-formed 315 Squadron at Leconfield on January 25 1941. He was killed over France on August 9 1941, shot down in combat three miles from the French coast, in Spitfire P 8506. Czerniak is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt. He was awarded two Bars to the KW (31.10.47).

APO 16.4.35 PO 16.4.36 PO (RAFO) 16.8.37

FO 28.3.40

JAN TADEUSZ CZERNY 76789

FL

Pilot

Polish

302 Squadron

FO 1.3.41 Born in Poland in 1908, Czerny was in the PAF before the war. He joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield on August 20 1940 from the Polish Wing of 3 S of TT, Blackpool.

Count MANFRED BECKETT CZERNIN 37148

FO

Pilot

British

17 Squadron

He was attached to 5 OTU on September 2 and after converting to Hurricanes, he rejoined 302 on the 26th. On October 29 Czerny collided with Flight Lieutenant J A Thomson during a routine patrol over Brooklands. He baled out, slightly injured. His Hurricane, P 3085, crashed at Penny-Pot Hill, Chobham.

Born in Berlin on January 18 1913, Czernin was the son of an Austrian diplomat and his English wife, the daughter of Baron Grimthorpe. The couple separated in 1914 and the mother took her son to live in Rome.

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Wing. On the 15th he claimed a Do 17 destroyed. The 302 detachment returned to Leconfield on the 25th. Awarded the KW and Bar (1.2.41), Czerwinski was posted to 55 OTU, Usworth on May 3 1941, as an instructor. He moved to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on November 19. Czerwinski took command of 306 (Polish) Squadron at Church Stanton on April 14 1942. He shot down a FW 190 SE of Calais on April 26. The squadron attacked St Omer airfield and Longuenesse on August 22 1942 and encountered heavy ground fire. Czerwinski was last seen in an uncontrolled climb, in Spitfire EN 836 and did not return to base. He is buried in Souvenir-Longuenesse Cemetery, St Omer France. Czerwinski was awarded a second Bar to the KW (20.9.42) after his death.

He was posted to No 1 (Polish) FTS on December 19 1940. Czerny went to CFS, Upavon for an instructor’s course in mid1941. On October 27 1941 Czerny was posted to 25 EFTS, Hucknall and instructed there until November 15 1945, going then to 16 FTS, Newton. Czerny came off flying in September 1946 and was repatriated to Poland in February 1947. He got the KW (29.5.43) and the AFC (9.2.45). PO 20.2.40 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.3.42 SL 1.3.44

PO —.7.40 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.3.42

STANISLAW CZTERNASTEK TADEUSZ CZERWINSKI P 1290

PO

Pilot Polish

76693

PO

Pilot

Polish

32 Squadron

302 Squadron Born on May 6 1916, Czternastek made his way to England after the fall of Poland.

Czerwinski was born on February 17 1910 and was in the PAF before the war. On September 1 1939 he was an instructor at the Polish Air Force College at Deblin, from where he led a fighter section of instructors, defending Deblin.

He was commissioned in the RAFVR on January 24 1940. He probably carried out a testing and grading course at 15 EFTS in September 1940. Czternastek went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 25 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 32 Squadron at Acklington on October 10. He moved to 46 Squadron at North Weald on November 28 and then to 615 Squadron at Northolt on December 12 1940. Czternastek was returning from operations on February 5 1941, when he collided with another aircraft. He was killed, when he crashed at Appleton Farm, Marlen, near Dover, in HurricaneV 7598. Czternastek is buried in Hawkinge Cemetery.

When Poland fell, Czerwinski made his way to France and joined l’Armée de l’Air. In June 1940 he was with Groupe de Chasse I/145. On the 3rd he claimed a He 111 destroyed and on the 10th a Do 17. After the fall of France he went to England. Czerwinski converted to Hurricanes and he joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield on July 23 1940. He went to Duxford with a 302 detachment on September 13, to operate with the Bader Big

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D ROBERT CHIPPINDALL DAFFORN 81674

PO

Pilot

British

very low level, the port wing tip touching the ground. The Spitfire crashed and Dafforn was killed. He is buried in St Mary’s churchyard, White Waltham, Berkshire. His brother-in-law, Flight Lieutenant J R Talbot RAFO, was killed in a take-off crash in a prototype of the Hermes on December 2 1945, aged 35. He was Chief Test Pilot at Handley Page. He is also buried in the churchyard at White Waltham.

501 Squadron

Dafforn was born at Horton near Windsor on March 2 1916. He was at Harrow School 1929-1934 and afterwards worked at the Bank of England, in the Exchange Department.

PO 25.4.40 FO 25.4.41 FL 25.4.42 In 1936 Dafforn applied to join the RAFVR but was turned down, because, at over 6 feet 6 inches tall, the doctors considered him too thin. He underwent a course of fitness work, applied again and was accepted as an Airman u/t Pilot (740804). He began at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley in October 1937. In June 1939 he was selected for four months training with the RAF and posted to the Air Fighting School, at 11 Group Pool, St Athan. The war started and on September 14 1939 he joined 501 Squadron at Filton. Commissioned in April 1940, Dafforn went with the squadron to Bethienville in France on May 10. He claimed a Do 17 destroyed on the 11th, a He 111 on the 14th, a probable Bf 110 on the 19th, a probable He 111 on the 20th and on the 27th a He 111 destroyed and another shared. On June 18 501 Squadron flew from Dinard to St Helier, Jersey, from where it operated on the 19th, covering the evacuation of the BEF from Cherbourg. It re-assembled at Croydon on the 21st. Dafforn claimed a Ju 87 destroyed on August 12, a Do 17 destroyed and two Ju 87s damaged on the 15th and a Do 17 damaged on the 16th. He was shot down by Bf 110s on the 18th, in an action over Biggin Hill and baled out, unhurt, landing in an orchard near Sevenoaks. His Hurricane, R 4219, crashed at Cronks Farm, East Seal. On August 24 Dafforn claimed a Ju 88 destroyed, on September 11 a shared Do 17 and on October 30 a Bf 109 destroyed. He was wounded on December 2 in an attack by Bf 109s and made a forced-landing at Detling, wrecking his Hurricane, V 6919. In the combat he had damaged a Bf 109. Dafforn was awarded the DFC (17.1.41). Dafforn was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander in late April 1941. On October 26 he was posted to 56 OTU, Sutton Bridge, as an instructor. He was the last of the original 501 pilots. In early January 1942 he was posted to the Middle East. He went to Takoradi and on March 1 took off on the multi-stage ferry route to Cairo, in a Hurricane II. On April 1 1942 Dafforn was attached to the Air Fighting School and Conversion and Refresher School at El Ballah, to accustom himself to desert conditions. Instead of being sent to the Western Desert, Dafforn was posted to 229 Squadron at Hal Far, Malta. He flew from El Ballah on April 19, via Gambut. Two days after arriving, he was made Acting Squadron Leader and took command of a badly-depleted squadron. On the 26th, on his second patrol, he was shot down and crash-landed at Hal Far, with cannon shell fragments in the right leg, lower back and arm. Although his wounds were slight, Dafforn was in hospital for fourteen weeks, with undulant fever. He flew out in a Hudson to Gibraltar on August 2 1942 and then on to Hendon on the 9th. After two months’ convalescence at Torquay, Dafforn was posted to 52 OTU, Aston Down as OC Night Flying Squadron. He went to CGS, Sutton Bridge in December 1942 for a course. In March 1943 he joined 504 Squadron at Ibsley, as a supernumerary Squadron Leader. On June 23 1943 he was posted to CGS as CFI. On the morning of September 9 1943 Dafforn was flying Spitfire P 7289 in an air-firing exercise. He was returning to the airfield when the aircraft was seen to do a steep turn at

PETER ALAN DALE 45550

Sgt

Pilot

British

141 Squadron

Dale joined the RAF as an Aircrafthand about July 1935 (522011). He later applied for pilot-training and was selected. With training completed, he arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan in October 1939. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 111 Squadron at Acklington on November 17 1939. He was with 141 Squadron in early 1940 and on March 14 he crashed through a barbed wire fence at Grangemouth, slightly damaging his Blenheim. Dale flew 18 operational sorties with 141, including 13 in the Battle of Britain period. These were mostly with Sergeant J S A Hodge as his gunner. On December 15 1940 Dale was posted to 255 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey. Commissioned in April 1941, Dale shot down a He 111 in the early hours of May 9, during a free-lance over Hull in Hurricane V 7222. On December 13 1941 Dale was killed when his Beaufighter, R 2309, hit some trees, coming in to land at Coltishall. His radar operator, Pilot Officer Friend was severely injured. Dale is buried in Scottow Cemetery, Norfolk. PO 7.4.41

RONALD WILLIAM DALTON 115715

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

604 Squadron

Dalton was born on August 24 1918. He joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Aircrew (751588). Called up on September 1, he was at No 1 Air Observers’ Navigation School at Prestwick in January 1940. However, in July 1940 Dalton was at No 1 AAS, Manby on a gunnery course, on completion of which he was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down. He joined 604 Squadron at Middle Wallop in late August but his first two operational patrols were not made until October 26, the first with Sergeant Brown and the second with Flight Lieutenant P C F Lawton. When the squadron converted completely from Blenheims to Beaufighters after the Battle of Britain, Dalton was one of the air gunners who were retrained as radar operators on the squadron. During the night of May 5/6 1941 Dalton was flying with Flight Lieutenant I K S Joll, when they destroyed a Ju 88 near Chawleigh, Devon, on June 6/7 they destroyed a Ju 88, which crashed into the sea off Poole, on June 8/9 they damaged a He 111 near Botley, Hampshire and in the early hours of July 5 they shot down a He 111 near Oakford, Devon. On October 28 1941 Dalton was involved in the destruction of a Ju 88, possibly flying with a Flight Lieutenant Lee. Dalton was awarded the DFM (2.12.41) for displaying great skill in night operations. Commissioned in January 1942, Dalton was still with 604 when he and Flight Lieutenant W Hoy shot down a He 111 W of Land’s End just after midnight on July 29 1942. They

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

ALBERT McDONALD SMITH DARGIE

destroyed a He 177 S of Beachy Head during the night of March 7/8 1943. In July 1943, with his tour completed, Dalton was posted away to 62 OTU, as an instructor, later moving to 51 OTU. He returned to operations on June 24 1944, when he joined 25 Squadron at Coltishall and once again flew with Hoy, then a Squadron Leader. They flew anti-V 1 patrols and shot one down on July 9. They also flew night patrols, high-level bomber-support and low-level intruder patrols but had no further success. Dalton stayed on in the RAF after the war. He received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.46). From September 1952 to November 1954 he was on exchange duty with the US Marine Corps in North Carolina and later California. He was later with 29 Squadron at Tangmere and made his last flight in December 1956. Dalton retired from the RAF on March 31 1958, as a Squadron Leader. He died on June 29 2004.

966123

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

23 Squadron

Dargie, of Dundee, joined the RAF in September 1939, as an Aircrafthand but remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. He completed his training and was with 23 Squadron at Wittering on March 31 1940, as an AC2 Air Gunner. He served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain and was posted away in late 1940 to Bomber Command. Dargie was killed on July 13 1941, as a Flight Sergeant with 38 Squadron, operating in Wellingtons from Shallufa, Egypt. He was 24 and his name is on the Alamein Memorial, Column 242.

HORACE STANLEY DARLEY 32191

SL

Pilot

British

609 Squadron

PO 27.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 27.1.44 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.4.56 Born on November 3 1913 at Wandsworth, Darley was educated at Emanuel School, Wandsworth Common, where he excelled at rugby, rowing, swimming, fives and shooting at Bisley.

JOHN J DALY 751318

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

141 Squadron He joined the RAF on a short service commission in August 1932. He carried out his training at 2 FTS, Digby and then joined 207 Squadron at Bircham Newton on August 20 1933. Darley was posted overseas on February 9 1935, to 8 Squadron at Khormaksar, Aden. He returned to the UK later the same year. On January 2 1937 Darley went to CFS, Upavon for an instructor’s course, after which he was posted to 7 FTS, Peterborough, as a Flight Commander. On June 6 1938 he was appointed Adjutant and Flying Instructor at 602 Squadron, AAF at Abbotsinch, moving on December 2 1938 to 611 Squadron, AAF at Speke, on the same duties. He was granted a Permanent Commission on August 12 1938. At the outbreak of war, September 3 1939, Darley was posted to RAF Catterick, for administrative duties. He went to HQ 12 Group on September 11 and was sent to Debden next day for controller duties. On May 9 1940 he was posted to Merville in France, as Controller with 63 Wing of the Air Component of the BEF. After returning to England in late May, he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down for a refresher course. Darley went to 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on June 5, as a supernumerary Squadron Leader, and on the 26th he joined 609 Squadron at Northolt and took command on the 28th. On August 8 he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed, on the 15th a probable Ju 88, on the 25th a Bf 109 and a Bf 110, on September 15 he damaged a Do 17, on the 25th got a probable Bf 110 and damaged a Do 17 and on the 26th he probably destroyed a Do 17 and damaged another. Darley was posted on October 4 1940 to be Station Commander at RAF Exeter and promoted to Acting Wing Commander on the 6th. He was awarded the DSO (22.10.40). He went to Air HQ Singapore on May 17 1941, on Fighter Defence. He was made Station Commander at RAF Kuala Lumpur on December 11, returned to 224 Group, Singapore on January 8 1942 as Ops 1, moved to 226 Group, Sumatra on February 3 and after the inevitable collapse caused by the Japanese advance, he arrived at RAF Depot, Karachi on March 16 and was posted to command 151 OTU at Risalpur, on the NW Frontier. Darley was appointed Station Commander at RAF Risalpur on October 7 1942. He was there until February 7 1943, when he was posted to 221 Group, Calcutta. On June 11 he returned to Risalpur, again to command 151 OTU there. Darley returned to the UK in July 1944 and was given command of 62 OTU, Ouston. He was made Station Commander at RAF Cranfield on June 15 1945 and went to RAF Staff College for a course. He held a series of appointments and held various commands before he retired from the RAF on June 15 1959, as a Group Captain. Darley was working on Special Duties at the Air Ministry, as a civilian, until his final retirement in 1973. He died in November 1999.

Daly joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Aircrew. Called up on September 1, he completed his training as an air gunner and probably joined 141 Squadron at Grangemouth in June 1940. During the Battle of Britain, Daly flew four operational sorties, on July 14, 15, 28 and 29 1940, all with Sergeant A S Wickins as pilot. No further details traced. He died in 1986.

JAMES EDWIN DANN 50772

Sgt

Pilot

British

23 Squadron

Dann joined the RAF as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot on January 20 1935 (580070). He began his flying training, as a pupil pilot at 4 Civil Flying Training School at Brough on November 25 1935. He was on No 1 Course at 10 FTS, Ternhill, which ran from February 1 to August 8 1936. With his training completed, he joined 23 Squadron at Biggin Hill and he was still with it during the Battle of Britain. Dann was posted away in 1941. He was commissioned in June 1942 and was awarded the DFC (23.3.45), as a Flight Lieutenant with 192 Squadron, based at Foulsham and employed on radar counter-measures, using Halifaxes and Mosquitos. He left the RAF in 1949 and died in 1986. PO 16.6.42 FO 16.12.42 FL 15.6.44 FL 16.12.45

ALEXANDER GEORGE DANNATT 1003513

AC

Radar Operator

British

29 Squadron

Dannatt joined the RAF, as an Aircrafthand, in June 1940. It is probable that he volunteered for flying duties and was sent on a short radar course at Yatesbury, after which he joined 29 Squadron at Digby in September. He flew four sorties during the Battle of Britain period, on October 11, 12, 18 and 19. He was still on 29 Squadron on December 8 1940 but he was on non-operational duties. No further service details traced. Dannatt died on December 16 1982.

APO 12.8.32 PO 12.8.33 FO 12.3.35 FL 12.3.37 SL 1.4.39 WC 1.6.41 WC 1.10.46 GC 1.7.51

BRIAN WILLIAM JESSE D’ARCY-IRVINE 72500

FO

Pilot

British

257 Squadron

ANDREW SMITTON DARLING 740544

D’Arcy-Irvine’s parents lived in Serdang, Kedah, Malaya. He was educated at Stowe School and went on to Trinity College, Cambridge, where he read Archaeology. He was a member of the University Air Squadron in 1938 and was commissioned in the RAFVR in October.

Sgt

Pilot

British

611 and 603 Squadrons

Darling, of Auchterarder, Perthshire, joined the RAFVR about August 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and went to 12 Group Pool, Sutton Bridge. From there he joined 611 Squadron at Digby on February 3 1940.

Called up for full-time service at the outbreak of war, D’Arcy-Irvine completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on April 22 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted on May 14 to 257 Squadron, then about to be formed at Hendon. On August 8 1940 D’Arcy-Irvine was reported ‘Missing’ after a combat with Bf 109s of III/JG 27 off St Catherine’s Point, in Hurricane P 3058. D’Arcy-Irvine was 22 and he is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 5.

On August 21 1940 Darling shared in the destruction of two Do 17s off the Lincolnshire coast. He was posted to 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 27. On the 30th he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another, on October 5 and 20 he probably destroyed Bf 109s and on the 28th he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another. Darling destroyed two CR 42s over the Straits of Dover on November 23 1940 and on the 29th he shared in the destruction of a Do 17 E of Ramsgate. On March 3 1941 he was posted to 611 Squadron at Hornchurch.

PO (RAFVR) 25.10.38 FO 25.4.40

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When Poland collapsed, Daszewski escaped to France and joined l’Armée de l’Air. In the fighting of May 1940 he served with ECD 1/55 and on June 1 he destroyed a He 111. After France fell, he escaped to England. He joined 303 Squadron at Northolt at its formation on August 2 1940, from the Polish Wing of 3 S of TT, Blackpool. Daszewski converted to Hurricanes on the squadron. He claimed a Do 215 destroyed and probably another on September 7 but was then shot down himself by Bf 109s over the Thames Estuary. Daszewski baled out, severely wounded in the thigh, and was admitted to Waldershire Hospital. His Hurricane, P 3890, crashed near Canterbury Gate, Selsted. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (23.12.40). Out of action for months, he rejoined 303 in early 1941. On April 20 he claimed a probable Bf 109. He was awarded the KW (30.10.41). On April 4 1942 303 joined up with 316 and 317 Squadrons, to provide an escort for Bostons detailed to bomb St Omer railway station. The Spitfires were intercepted by Bf 109s and FW 190s and a general combat ensued. Daszewski, ‘B’ Flight Commander, sent out a distress call but was not heard from again. He was in Spitfire AD 455. He is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial, Northolt. He was awarded a Bar to the KW (20.8.42) and two more Bars (31.10.47).

He was killed on April 26 1941, as a Flight Sergeant with 91 Squadron. Darling was shot down by Oberleutnant Schumann of II/JG 52, whilst on a shipping reconnaissance, in Spitfire P 7615. He was 28 and is buried in Auchterarder Cemetery.

EDWARD VIVIAN DARLING 65979

Sgt

Pilot

British

41 Squadron

Darling was born in 1914 at Wellington, Madras, India but later he lived at Wembley, Middlesex. He joined the RAFVR about August 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740608). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and joined 41 Squadron at Catterick on December 17 1939. He went to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on December 31 for further training. After converting to Hurricanes, Darling rejoined 41 Squadron on January 26 1940. He took part in the operations over Dunkirk. On August 11 1940 Darling shared in the destruction of a Ju 88, on September 6 he got a probable Bf 109, on the 9th claimed two Bf 109s destroyed, on the 15th shot down a He 111 and damaged a Do 17, on the 18th he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged a Ju 88 and on the 23rd he damaged a Bf 109. Darling was himself shot down over the Channel on the 24th, in Spitfire R 6604. He made a crash-landing outside Dover, unhurt. Three days later he was shot down over West Malling. He baled out, wounded, and was admitted to Preston Hall Hospital. Back with the squadron, Darling’s first operational sortie was made on November 26 1940. He shared a Bf 109 on the 27th. Commissioned in January 1941, he went to 602 Squadron in June but was promoted in August and then moved to 616 Squadron at Westhampnett, as a Flight Commander. He was awarded the DFC (17.10.41). Tour-expired, Darling was posted to 53 OTU, Llandow on November 27 1941, as an instructor. He returned to operations on May 9 1942, then joining 403 (RCAF) Squadron at Rochford, as a Flight Commander. He failed to return from a sweep on June 2 and was reported ‘Missing’. He was seen to bale out off the French coast. Darling is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 65.

BRIAN DAVEY 79537

British

504, 32 and 257 Squadrons

Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 2 FTS, Brize Norton, on No 44 Course, which ended on May 18 1940. He was commissioned and was possibly at 12 OTU, Benson in June before joining 150 Squadron at Snaith. Flying Battles, it had been in France and was withdrawn in mid-June. Davey probably volunteered for Fighter Command and was posted from 150 to 504 Squadron, based at Catterick, on September 3, moved to 32 Squadron at Acklington on the 16th and to 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on the 28th. He shared in destroying a Fiat BR 20 on November 11 1940. Davey was killed on June 12 1941, as a Flying Officer with 52 OTU. He was 22 and is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Rochford, Essex.

CHRISTOPHER WILLIAM WHARTON DARWIN Pilot British

Pilot

Davey joined the RAFVR in February 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742988). He did his pre-war flying at 34 E&RFTS, Rochford.

PO 15.1.41 FO 10.11.41

42050 PO

PO

87 Squadron PO 19.5.40 FO 19.5.41 Darwin, of Elston, Nottingham, was born on July 30 1918, son of Major C J W Darwin, who formed and commanded 87 Squadron at Upavon on September 1 1917.

JOHN ARTHUR JOSEPH DAVEY 44182

He was educated at Winchester College and Ecole Lemania, Lausanne. In 1939 Darwin joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his training on March 27 1939, as a pupil pilot. With training completed, he arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on November 20. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 2 Ferry Pilot Pool in December 1939. Darwin was posted to 87 Squadron in France on March 6 1940. On May 10 he probably destroyed a He 111 and on the 18th he destroyed another. The squadron was withdrawn to Debden on May 24. On July 28 1940, Darwin was taking off from Exeter at dawn in poor visibility, in Hurricane P 2855. He struck a parked Hurricane and crashed. He was admitted to hospital with head injuries. On recovery, he was posted to HQ 14 Group on November 20 1940, as PA to the AOC. In 1942 Darwin was with 274 Squadron in the Western Desert. On August 7 he was shot down by two Bf 109s. Darwin baled out but was dead when picked up. He is buried in the El Alamein War Cemetery. Darwin’s father, Squadron Leader C J W Darwin, died in unknown circumstances on December 26 1941, aged 47. He was cremated at Golders Green.

PO

Pilot

British

1 Squadron

Davey, of Leamington, Warwickshire, joined the RAF as an Aircraft Apprentice in August 1936 (569676) and passed out in July 1939. He was awarded a cadetship to RAF College, Cranwell and began the course there. The scheme was suspended at the outbreak of war and Davey remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot. He began his elementary flying training at 9 EFTS, Ansty in October 1939. Davey went on to RAF College FTS, Cranwell on April 10 1940. With the course completed on July 14, he was granted a Permanent Commission and he joined No 1 Squadron at Tangmere on the 15th. Davey was attached to the Northolt Sector Training Flight and he made his first flight in a Hurricane on July 19 and flew his first operational sortie with No 1 Squadron on the 26th. On the 31st he shared a Do 17. Shot down by Bf 110s on August 11, Davey was killed when he crashed, in Hurricane P3172, attempting a forced-landing on Sandown golf course. Davey was 20. He is buried in Sandown Cemetery, Isle of Wight. PO 14.7.40

APO 27.5.39 PO 18.11.39

FO 18.11.40

FL 18.11.41

WILLIAM DENNIS DAVID JAN KASIMIERZ MICHAL DASZEWSKI P 1503

PO

Pilot

Polish

40805

FO

Pilot

British

87 and 213 Squadrons

303 Squadron Born in Surbiton, Surrey on July 25 1918, David spent his early childhood at Tongwynlais, a village near Cardiff. The family moved again and he went to Surbiton County School. He left school at 14 and went to work for his uncle, in his footwear and clothing business.

Born on April 5 1916, Daszewski was in the PAF before the war. In September 1939 he was with 112 Eskadra. On the 5th he destroyed a Ju 87 and on the 6th shared in destroying a Do 17.

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ALFRED ERIC DAVIES

David joined the RAFVR in April 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot. (740180). He joined the RAF, as a candidate for a short service commission and began his elementary flying training at 5 E&RFTS, Hanworth on April 4 1938, as a pupil pilot. After a short induction course at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, David was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand. In late 1938 David was in the Fighter Pool at RNAS, Ford, awaiting a posting. In early 1939 he joined 87 Squadron at Debden and flew to France on September 9 1939. Still with 87 David damaged a He 111 on November 2. The German blitzkrieg was launched on May 10 1940. On this day David claimed a He 111 and a Do 17 destroyed and shared in another Do 17, on the 11th he shot down a Ju 87 and a Do 17, on the 12th a He 111, on the 14th a He 111 and shared another, on the 16th he shared a Bf 109, on the 18th he damaged two Bf 109s and on the 19th a probable Bf 109, shot down a Bf 110, probably another and shared a He 111. 87 Squadron was withdrawn to Debden on the 22nd and then went to Church Fenton to refit. David was awarded the DFC (31.5.40) and Bar (4.6.40), the citations crediting him with eleven enemy aircraft destroyed. On August 11 he claimed a Bf 109 and a Ju 88 destroyed, on the13th a Ju 87 destroyed, on the 15th a Ju 87 destroyed and a Bf 110 probably destroyed, on the 25th two Ju 88s destroyed and on September 15 a He 111. David was posted to 213 Squadron at Tangmere on September 16 as ‘B’ Flight Commander. He destroyed a Ju 88 on October 19. He rejoined 87 Squadron on October 23. He went to 152 Squadron at Warmwell on November 13, as a Flight Commander. Tour-expired, David was posted to 55 OTU, Usworth on March 24 1941, as CFI. He moved to 59 OTU, Crosby-on-Eden on June 19 1941, as Assistant CFI and returned to 55 OTU on November 23 1941, as Wing Commander Training. Awarded the AFC (1.1.43), David was posted to the Middle East in February 1943, as SASO 209 Group. On July 19 1943 he took command of 89 Squadron, a Beaufighter night-fighter unit. He led the squadron to Ceylon on October 15. David was appointed Sector Commander at Trincomalee on March 4 1944; he became Base Commander at Minneriya on May 5 and Base Commander at Kankesanturai on August 30. Later in 1944 David was promoted to Acting Group Captain and appointed Air Adviser to the Commander of the 15th Indian Corps at Arakan, Burma. He was SASO 224 Group from January 6 1945 to November 16, when he became SASO Air HQ Dutch East Indies at Batavia. David, who had been granted a Permanent Commission in September 1945, returned to the UK in April 1946. He held a series of appointments and commands in the post-war RAF, including Honorary Aide to Viscount Trenchard until his death and Air Attaché in Budapest during the unsuccessful Hungarian uprising in 1956, during which time he assisted many to flee the country. David was made a CBE (1.1.60) and retired on May 26 1967, as a Group Captain. In 1991 he was made a Freeman of the City of London. He died on August 25 2000, while driving his car. APO 4.4.38 GC 1.1.60

PO 4.4.39

FO 3.9.40

FL 3.9.41

SL 25.2.42

SL 1.9.45

90963

Sgt

Pilot

British

Pilot

British

610 and 222 Squadrons

A member of 604 Squadron, AAF at Hendon before the war, Davies was commissioned in June 1939. He was called to full-time service on August 24. With his flying training completed, he joined the staff of No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum. From there he joined 26 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at West Malling on June 7 1940. Davies was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 22 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 610 Squadron at Acklington on September 3, moving to 222 Squadron at Hornchurch on the 28th. On October 25 he probably destroyed a Bf 109. He was killed on October 30 1940, when his wing was shot off in combat with Bf 109s. His Spitfire, N 3119, crashed and burned out at Upper Wilting Farm, Crowhurst. Davies was 23 and is buried in St Mary Magdalene churchyard extension, Tanworth-in-Arden, Warwickshire. APO 18.6.39 APO 24.8.39 PO 17.3.40

GRAHAM GORDON AYERST DAVIES 41989

PO

Pilot

British 222 Squadron The son of a journalist, Davies was born on March 6 1919 and lived in Paris as a young child. He was sent to school in Folkestone, afterwards working as an engineer with Imperial Airways, flying between Croydon and Amsterdam.

Davies joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying at 7 E&RFTS, Desford on March 6 1939, as a pupil pilot. In May he was posted to 14 FTS, Kinloss and with training completed, he joined 236 Squadron on November 8 at Stradishall, going to 222 Squadron at Duxford on November 29. Davies was over Dunkirk on May 31 1940, when his engine gave trouble. He decided to land on a beach, with the hope that the sand would be hard. He landed safely in spite of being fired at by French soldiers, who thought his Spitfire was a Stuka. He was driven into Dunkirk, then told to go back and burn his aircraft, which he did, and was then taken back and returned to England in a paddle steamer. On August 30 Davies shared in the destruction of a He 111 and damaged a Do 17. Next day he was shot down in flames by a Bf 109 over Ashford. He baled out, burned on the hands and face. His Spitfire, P 9337, probably crashed near Huntbourne St Michaels, Tenterden. He rejoined the Squadron on December 10, after undergoing plastic surgery. Davies damaged a He 111 on May 14 1941. In November he was posted to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course, after which he went to 5 FTS, Ternhill in January 1942 and moved to 5(P) AFU, Peterborough in June. Posted to India in April 1943, Davies was initially at No 1 SFTS, Ambala but in August 1943 he was posted to 225 Group, Bangalore, then to RAF Cholavarum, Madras. In December he moved to the AFTU Armarda Road, went to 136 Squadron at Rumkhapalong in February 1944 and he then took command of 607 Squadron at the same base in March. The squadron was involved in the heavy fighting at Imphal and when the siege was lifted, Davies flew back to the UK for a Fighter Leader’s course at Milfield. He rejoined 607 Squadron in November 1944 and led it until May 1945, when he was posted to 73 OTU, Fayid, Egypt. In October he took command of 294 Squadron, an air-sea rescue unit. Davies stayed in the RAF. From 1946 to 1948 he was Air Attaché in Paris, he later served at HQ Middle East Air Force, as a liaison officer, commanded 73 Squadron in Malta, was OC 7 Wing British Air Force in Belgium and was serving with NATO in London when he retired on June 17 1959, as a Squadron Leader. Davies died in 1986.

WC 1.7.53

HENRY JOHN DAVIDSON 61945

PO

249 Squadron

Davidson, of Stretford, Manchester, joined the RAFVR about February 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741340). He did his pre-war training at 17 E&RFTS, Barton. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 2 FTS, Brize Norton, on No 44 Course, which ran from December 11 1939 to May 18 1940. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 19th. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 249 Squadron at Leconfield on June 9. On August 7 Davidson claimed a Do 17 destroyed and a Bf 109 damaged, on August 15 and September 2 he shared in the destruction of Bf 110s, on the 5th got a probable Bf 109, on the 7th claimed a Do 17 destroyed and a Bf 109 damaged, on the 27th shot down a Ju 88 and shared a Bf 110 and on October 29 destroyed a Bf 109. Commissioned in March 1941, Davidson went to the newly-formed MSFU at Speke on May 9. He made the first experimental launch from the SS Empire Rainbow on May 31. After launching, the Hurricane dropped below the ship’s bow and the port wing touched the sea but Davidson regained control and landed at Abbotsinch. With modified equipment and changes in pilot technique, Davidson sailed for Nova Scotia on June 8 in the Empire Rainbow but he saw no action on the voyage. Davidson was killed on October 6 1942, as a Flying Officer with 285 Squadron, an antiaircraft co-operation unit. He was 27 and was cremated at Manchester Crematorium.

APO 29.4.39 PO 6.11.39

FO 6.11.40

FL 6.11.41

FL 1.9.45

JOHN ALFRED DAVIES 90212

SL

Pilot

British

604 Squadron

In the early 1930s Davies, the son Sir Alfred and Lady Davies, was a 2nd Lieutenant in the 1st City of London Regiment (Royal Fusiliers) (TA). He resigned his commission on October 1 1934 and joined 604 Squadron, AAF at Hendon in March 1935. Davies was embodied on August 24 1939 and was with 604 as ‘B’ Flight Commander. He was detached to AFDU, Northolt on July 30 1940, for an Air Fighting Course. He rejoined 604 on August 9. He was attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 7 1940, converted to Hurricanes and was posted on the 18th to command 308 (Polish) Squadron, then being formed at Squires Gate. On October 16 1940 Davies was killed after striking a barrage balloon cable above Coventry, when it was obscured by cloud, His Hurricane, P 3999, dived into the ground at Whitley Stadium. Davies is buried in St Nectan’s churchyard, Hartland, Devon.

PO 5.3.41 FO 5.3.42

PO (AAF) 10.3.35 FO (AAF) 11.4.37

123

FL (AAF) 25.4.39 FL 24.8.39 SL 1.9.40

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LEONARD DAVIES 143088

Sgt

Pilot

British

He remained with the squadron until December 26 1940, when he was posted to 23 Squadron at Ford. He joined 51 OTU, Debden from 23 on August 4 1941, for navigation duties. Davies was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1972.

151 Squadron

Davies was born on November 17 1920 went to school in Stockton on Tees. He joined 608 Squadron, AAF about July 1939, as an Aircrafthand (808429). Called up on August 24, he remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot.

APO 20.8.38 PO 27.6.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

PAUL JOHN DAVIES-COOKE 36167

With training completed, he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 1 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 151 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on July 15. He made a crash-landing at Eastchurch on August 28, following a combat over the Thames Estuary. He was wounded and did not fly with 151 again until November 6 1940.On December 13 Davies was posted to the Middle East. He arrived at Malta in a Sunderland from the Middle East on January 30 1941 and joined 261 Squadron at Ta Kali. On February 4 he damaged a Ju 88 and on May 9 a Ju 87. He returned to the Middle East later in the month. Commissioned in December 1942, Davies was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on March 31 2014

Pilot

British

British

610 and 72 Squadrons

He relinquished this commission on March 18 1939, when he joined the RAF on a direct-entry Permanent Commission, as a University Entrant. He completed his training and probably went to 10 B&GS, as a staff pilot. On January 8 1940 Davies-Cooke joined 613 Squadron at Odiham from Annan, which was a satellite landing ground for 10 B&GS. In August 1940 Davies-Cooke volunteered for Fighter Command. He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden, on August 22 and after converting to Spitfires, he rejoined 610 Squadron at Biggin Hill on September 3 and moved to 72 Squadron, also at Biggin Hill, on the 20th. Davies-Cooke was shot down by a Bf 109 over Sevenoaks on September 27. He baled out but fell dead near Hayes Station. His Spitfire, N 3068, crashed into Nos 70 and 72 Queensway, West Wickham. Davies-Cooke was 23 years old. He is buried in St John’s churchyard, Rhyd-y-mwyn, Cilcain, Flintshire.

MAURICE PETER DAVIES Sgt

Pilot

Davies-Cooke was at Shrewsbury School from 1930 to 1935 and then at Trinity College, Cambridge. He joined 610 Squadron, AAF in 1937 and was commissioned in July.

PO 2.12.42 FO 2.6.43 FL 2.12.44

119872

FO

1 and 213 Squadron

Davies was born on April 6 1914. He joined the RAFVR about April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748026). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 17 1940.

PO (AAF) 1.7.37 PO 18.3.39 FO 18.8.39

After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to No 1 Squadron at Northolt on September 1. On October 9 he damaged a Ju 88. Davies moved to 213 Squadron at Tangmere on October 14 1940. On the 17th he damaged a Bf 109. Commissioned in January 1942, Davies was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He may have rejoined the RAFVR and was killed on July 22 1953, flying a Chipmunk of the Leeds University Air Squadron that crashed at Park House Farm, Birkin, near Knottingly, Yorkshire, having failed to recover from a spin. Davies is buried in the churchyard at Kirkby Wharfe, near Tadcaster.

ALFRED STEWART DAVIS 744961

Sgt

Observer

British

235 Squadron

Davis joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Aircrew. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 235 Squadron on July 18 1940. He flew his first sortie on July 21.

PO 13.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 13.1.44 He was posted with his flight to Aldergrove on November 19 1940, where it combined with a flight from 236 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron. He flew his first sortie with 272 on November 28. No further service details traced.

PETER FREDERICK McDONALD DAVIES 40088

FO

Pilot

British

56 Squadron

CARL RAYMOND DAVIS

Davies was born on August 11 1919 and joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary training on July 12 1937, as a pupil pilot. On September 18 he was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton, and after his course he joined the RAF Ferry Flight at Cardington.

90131

ROY BLACKBURNE DAVIES Pilot

British

American

601 Squadron

In 1936 Davis joined 601 Squadron, AAF at Hendon and was commissioned in August. He was called to full-time service on August 27 1939. He took part in an attack on the Luftwaffe seaplane base at Borkum on November 28 1939. Twelve Blenheims took off from Bircham Newton, six from 25 Squadron and six from 601 Squadron. All aircraft landed safely back at Debden. Three He 115s were destroyed and three damaged. It was the first fighter attack of the war on a German target. 601 Squadron was re-equipped with Hurricanes in March 1. Davis claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on July 11 1940, a Bf 109 damaged on the 26th, two Bf 110s probably destroyed and one damaged on August 11, a Bf 110 destroyed, three probably destroyed, a Ju 88 destroyed and another shared and a Bf 110 damaged on the 13th. He claimed Ju 88s destroyed on the 15th and 16th, shot down a Bf 109, a Ju 87 and shared another on the 18th, probably destroyed a Bf 110 on the 31st and destroyed another on September 4. Davis was awarded the DFC (30.8.40). He was shot down and killed on September 6 1940. His Hurricane, P 3363, crashed, inverted, and burned out in the back garden of Canterbury Cottage at Matfield, Brenchley, near Tunbridge Wells. Davis was 29. He is buried in St Mary’s churchyard in Storrington, Sussex, where his parents were then living. Davis was married to Anne, sister of Sir Archibald Hope Bt of 601 Squadron.

APO 5.9.37 PO 12.7.38 FO 12.4.40 FL 12.4.40 SL 1.7.44 SL 1.8.47

FO

Pilot

Davis was born in South Africa, of American parents. He was sent to Britain at the age of 13, to go to Sherborne School. He later went to Trinity College, Cambridge and McGill University, Montreal, where he qualified as a mining engineer. He lived in London in the thirties.

From Hucknall on July 28 1939, Davies joined 56 Squadron at North Weald and was still with the squadron at the start of the Battle of Britain. On August 13 1940 he was shot down in combat with Bf 109s. His Hurricane, N 2429, was set on fire and he baled out at 20,000 feet over Kent, with burns on hands, arms and legs and minor burns on the face. This resulted in his being recategorised for nonoperational flying only. Davies went on ferry pilot duties in December 1940. In April 1941 he was posted to 29 MU, High Ercall as Senior Test Pilot and, apart from a six month illness, he served as a test pilot until August 1945. He was then sent on a Signal Officers’ Long War Course at RAF Cranwell, after which he held various appointments in Signals and Radar. In 1948 Davies served as Group Movements Officer at 205 Group, Abyad, Egypt. Back in the UK in early 1951, he became CGI at the Advanced Jet Training School at Valley. In October 1953 Davies was appointed to command the Armament Practice Squadron. His last appointment was in December 1955, with a posting to the Ministry of Supply, to work on Research and Development of Flight Simulators. Davies resigned his commission on August 11 1958, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1993.

40995

FL

29 Squadron

Davies joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 27 1938 and completed his flying training in the Spring of 1939. He went to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on February 1 1940, converted to Blenheims and was posted to 29 Squadron at Debden on April 6.

PO (AAF) 7.8.36 FO (AAF) 6.10.38

124

FO 27.8.39 FL 3.9.40

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CHARLES TREVOR DAVIS

PETER EDGAR DAVIS

33563

551875

PO

Pilot

British

238 Squadron

Davis was born in Cardiff in 1920 and educated at Whitby County School, North Yorkshire, though at the end of the war his parents appear to have been living in Grindleford, Derbyshire and the name of C T Davis appears on the war memorial there. Davis entered RAF College, Cranwell on April 27 1939, as a Flight Cadet. After the outbreak of war, the cadets who had not completed their courses were enlisted in the RAF on September 7 1939, as Airmen u/t Pilots, and each given an Airman number.

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

236 Squadron

Davis joined the RAF as a Boy Entrant. He later volunteered for flying duties, did his training and joined 236 Squadron on October 24 1940. He flew three operational sorties before the end of the Battle of Britain, on October 29, 30 and 31. There is no further mention of him in the 236 Squadron ORB. On June 2 1942 Davis was a member of the crew of a Halifax of 35 Squadron returning to Linton-on-Ouse after an attack on Essen. The aircraft was shot down by night fighters and the pilot, Sergeant P A Hilton, brought it down near St Leonards, Brecht, Belgium. All the crew were taken prisoner. Davis was held in Stalag Luft 6 at Heydekrug (PoW No 496). Freed in 1945, as a Warrant Officer, he was released from the RAF later in the year.

Davis (581702) was on a course at Cranwell, which ended on March 7 1940. However, he was delayed, either by illness or injury, and was put back on to No 6 Course, which began on November 6 1939. He arrived at 10 B&GS, Warmwell on April 26 1940, with the Advanced Training Squadron of RAF College FTS, for Armament training. Davis’ course ended on May 9 and he was granted a Permanent Commission on the 12th. He joined 238 Squadron, then reforming at Tangmere, on May 13. On July 13 Davis shared in the destruction of two Bf 110s and a Do 17, on the 20th he shared a Bf 109 and also probably another, on the 21st he shared a Bf 110 and a Do 17 and on the 27th destroyed a Ju 87. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on August 8, two Bf 110s on the 13th, damaged a Ju 88 on September 12, probably destroyed a He 111 on the 15th and damaged a Ju 88 on the 21st. He was awarded the DFC (25.10.40). Davis was killed on March 26 1941, when he flew into a hill coming down through cloud near Winchester. He was 20 years old. He was cremated at St John’s Crematorium, Woking, Surrey. His brother, Michael Harburn Davis, was a Lieutenant in HM Submarine Rainbow. This was lost with all hands in the Adriatic in October 1940. It is believed to have collided with an Italian freighter. M H Davis was 26 and is commemorated on the Portsmouth Naval Memorial.

PHILLIP OSCAR DAVIS 115138

Sgt

Pilot

British

54 and 222 Squadrons

Davis, who came from Ramsey, Huntingdonshire, attended the Abbey School there. He joined the RAFVR about April 1939 as an Airman u/t Pilot (745846). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and joined 222 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 25 1940. On October 26 Davis crashed on Purleigh Barns Farm, Latchingden, when his engine caught fire during a patrol. The Spitfire, R 6773, was wrecked but Davis was unhurt. Commissioned in January 1942, Davis was killed on August 10 1943, serving with 511 Squadron, an Albemarle transport unit. Davis was then a Flying Officer, aged 22. He is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 6, Column 2. PO 15.1.42 FO 1.10.42

PO 12.5.40

WILLIAM LANCE DAVIS JACK DAVIS 50555

Sgt

Pilot

61459 British

Sgt

Pilot

British

249 Squadron

54 Squadron Davis was born in Spondon, Derby, in March 1919. He joined the RAFVR about October 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742243). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand. on No 46 Course, which ran from February 1 to June 26 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 6, converted to Hurricanes and joined 249 Squadron at Church Fenton on August 5.

Davis joined the RAF as an Aircraft Apprentice on January 25 1933 (590709) and passed out on January 30 1935, as a Clerk. He later applied for pilot training. Davis joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 9 1940. On the 31st Davis, Deere and Edsall of 54 were caught in a bombing attack on Hornchurch as they took off. Davis got off, just cleared the boundary fence and then crashed in the River Ingrebourne. His wrecked Spitfire was seen but he had gone. He turned up some time later carrying his parachute. Having found no gap in the boundary fence, he walked right round and came back in at the main gate. Commisioned in October 1942, Davis was awarded the AFC (3.4.45) and retired from the RAF on June 6 1959, as a Squadron Leader.

Davis damaged a Do 17 on September 5 and on the 11th he destroyed a Ju 88 but was himself shot down over the East London docks, in Hurricane V 6682. He baled out, wounded. Although non-operational, Davis remained on the strength of 249 Squadron until October 15, when he was posted to RAF North Weald, as non-effective sick. He rejoined 249 in December 1940. Commissioned in February 1941, Davis was shot down and wounded by Bf 109s on the 10th of the month, in Hurricane V 7171, and made a PoW. He had been taking part in Circus 4, a Blenheim escort to Dunkirk. His injured leg was troublesome for the rest of his life. He died in 1984.

PO 28.10.42 FO 28.4.43 FL 28.1044 FL 28.4.46 SL 1.7.52

PO 7.2.41

JOHN NORMAN DAVIS

JOHN TREGONWELL DAVISON

581208

Sgt

Observer

British

600 Squadron

70020 th

Davis was with 600 Squadron in May 1940. On the 10 he was a member of the crew of Squadron Leader J Wells who led an attack by six aircraft on Waalhaven airfield. A fighter escort failed to arrive at the RV point. Over Rotterdam five of the Blenheims were shot down by Bf110s, including that flown by Wells. Davis baled out with a head injury and minor burns and was the only survivor from his aircraft. He later said that his pilot had, “practically kicked me through the escape hatch”.

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

235 Squadron

Born at Ashburton on January 7 1914, Davison applied for a short service commission in the RNZAF in March 1939 and was accepted in July. Before he was called, the war broke out and he did not report to the Ground Training School at Weraroa until October 17. In late November Davison moved to No 1 EFTS, Taieri and on to No 1 FTS, Wigram on January 16 1940. He passed out as a Sergeant-Pilot and was then commissioned soon afterwards. Davison left for the UK in the Mataroa on May 24, arriving on July 10. He was posted to No 1 (C) OTU at Silloth, Cumberland on July 27 and was detached from there to RAF Prestwick for No 2 Blenheim Course. After converting to Blenheims, he returned to Silloth on August 17 and was posted to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton next day. On November 23 Davison was captain of a Blenheim, which took part in a bombing attack on two heavily-armed enemy merchant vessels. During the action he was wounded in the foot and the thigh.

Davis evaded capture, was helped by Dutch troops and sailed from the Hook of Holland to Harwich on the 13th in the destroyer HMS Hereward, which was carrying the Dutch Royal family. He re-joined 600 Squadron at Manston. During the Battle of Britain he flew 13 operational sorties. His subsequent postings are unknown. He was commissioned from Warrant Officer on June 22 1943 (52004). PO 22.6.43 FO 5.10.43

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on June 27. In Hurricane P 3677, Daw made a forced-landing near Dover on July 25 after a combat with Bf 109s. Slightly injured, he was admitted to hospital and discharged on August 8. He flew no further sorties with 32. He was posted to RAF Biggin Hill on September 19 1940, as non effective sick. Daw was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose on October 29, to instruct. In late 1940 he was with 145 Squadron and on July 17 1941 he went to 242 Squadron at North Weald but was posted away on August 8. Awarded the AFC (1.1.45), Daw stayed on in the RAF. He was killed in a flying accident on March 24 1953, as a Flight Lieutenant. Daw was flying a Meteor of the Day Fighter Leaders’ School during a “rat and terrier” sortie involving four aircraft sent out at low level to be bounced by another aircraft so that low level breaks could be practised. Daw’s aircraft probably came down in The Wash and his body was not found.

He regained his base but damage to the aircraft’s hydraulic system necessitated that he make a crash-landing. Unbeknown to Davison, a bomb remained on the rack and this exploded on impact, severely wounding the Wop/AG, Sergeant A T R Aslett, and setting fire to the aircraft. Davison and his observer, Sergeant Brazier, jumped clear but on realising that Aslett was still in the blazing aircraft, they went back, regardless of their own safety and dragged him out. They were both badly burned. Brazier got the BEM and Davison the GM (13.3.41). On May 5 1941 Davison was posted away to form the Nottingham University Air Squadron at Newton, as Flying Instructor and Adjutant. He was appointed Chief Instructor to the Cambridge University Air Squadron at Duxford on January 1 1942. Davison was posted to the Empire CFS, Hullavington in February 1943 for a CGI course. On completing it in June, he went to Uxbridge to await an overseas posting. He was picked for a CGI post in Rhodesia but the RNZAF requested that he return to New Zealand. On September 4 1943 Davison became CGI at the ITW at Rotorua, moving to a similar appointment at RNZAF Delta on July 17 1944. He was posted to Melbourne for an RAAF War Staff Course on October 1 1944 and on his return Davison was made Deputy Director of Personnel Services on February 10 1945, at the Air Department, Wellington. He was recalled to the UK for special duties in November 1945 and on the 20th he became CGI at the Empire CFS. Davison was made an OBE (1.1.48), returned with his family to New Zealand in late 1948 and retired from the RNZAF on June 24 1951, as a Wing Commander. He died at Matamata on October 9 1981.

APO 14.1.39 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.44 SL 1.8.47

PETER LESLIE DAWBARN 41905

PO

Pilot

British

17 Squadron

Dawbarn was born on April 5 1921 in Shropshire. He was educated at Adams’ Grammar School, Newport, Shropshire. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio training at 11 E&RFTS, Perth on February 6 1939. He did his intermediate and advanced flying at 2 FTS, Brize Norton, after which he joined 253 Squadron in November.

PO 4.5.40 FO 6.5.41 FL 6.5.42 SL 1.1.44 WC 1.10.47

THOMAS DANIEL HUMPHREY DAVY 41383

FO

Pilot

British

266 and 72 Squadrons

Dawbarn spent a short period in France with ‘B’ Flight from May 16 to 19 1940. On June 8 he went to 17 Squadron, then operating in Brittany. It was withdrawn to Debden on June 19, returning via the Channel Islands. Dawbarn was involved in a flying accident on July 15, crashing during a routine patrol, and was seriously injured. After six months in hospitals, he was posted to 59 OTU, Crosby-on-Eden, to instruct. He did an instructor’s course at CFS, Upavon and was posted in June 1941 to an EFTS near Derby. In 1943 he returned to operations, flying with a Hurricane squadron at Warmwell. In late 1943 Dawbarn joined No 1 ADF and served at various stations in the London area until posted to India in February 1945, to command No 1 AACU. Dawbarn was released in 1946, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 2009.

Davy was born in Shanghai on May 3 1920, the son of a manager with the North China Daily News. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio training on October 6 1938. On completion of his course, he joined 35 Squadron at Cottesmore on July 22 1939. Later in the year he joined 98 Squadron at Hucknall, equipped with Fairey Battles. On December 28 1939 Davy was posted to 150 Squadron in France. He was attached to 12 Squadron at Amifontaine on January 6 1940, operating in Fairey Battles. He was taken on to the strength of the squadron on March 31. On May 12 the squadron was ordered to bomb bridges over the Albert Canal at Maastricht. The attack was carried out in the face of intense ground fire. After making a dive-bombing attack, Davy’s aircraft was attacked by a Bf 109, which was fought off by his gunner, LAC G H Patterson. The port fuel tank of the Battle was thought to be on fire and Davy ordered the crew to bale out. He stayed with the aircraft and was eventually compelled to make a forcedlanding eight miles short of base, his Battle bursting into flames on landing. It was the sole survivor of the six aircraft which set out. Davy was awarded the DFC (31.5.40) and Patterson the DFM for the action. Davy’s last operation with 12 Squadron was on the night of July 25/26, to Evere, Belgium, but he returned because of bad weather. After volunteering for Fighter Command, Davy was posted to 12 OTU, Benson on August 12 and joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on August 28 1940 and then 72 Squadron, Biggin Hill on September 28. He served with 315 Squadron before joining the MSFU on June 28 1941, completed three sea trips and took charge of the MSFU detatchment in Gibraltar for six months. He returned to the UK. Davy was killed on September 13 1942, as a Flight Lieutenant with the MSFU. He had been detailed as a bomber aircraft in an interception exercise flying Hurricane P 3868. As his aircraft was approached by the fighters, it was seen to carry out a steep turn to the right at about 2,000 feet and a few seconds later was seen to be spinning. The aircraft crashed into the Old Racecourse, Babell, Flintshire and caught fire. The accident was considered to have been caused by failing to recover from a flat spin after a high speed stall induced by the steep turn. Davy was 22 and is buried in Anfield Cemetery, Liverpool.

APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39

391828

Pilot

British

Sgt

Pilot

New Zealander

111 Squadron

Born in Palmerston North on August 21 1916, Dawick worked as a printer from 1933 until he joined the RNZAF. In 1938 he learned to fly privately at the Middle Districts Aero Club and early in 1939 he joined the Civil Reserve of Pilots. He was called for full-time service in November 1939 and reported to the Ground Training School, Weraroa on December 18. Dawick did his elementary flying at No 1 EFTS, Taieri, moved to No 1 FTS, Wigram in March 1940 and after completing the course he sailed for the UK in the RMS Rangitane in July. After a short spell at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, Dawick was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 11, for conversion to Hurricanes. He joined 111 Squadron at Drem on the 30th. He went to 605 Squadron at Croydon on December 23 1940, remaining with it until August 19 1941, when he was posted to 55 OTU, Usworth as an instructor. In October Dawick was sent overseas to 73 OTU, Aden, where he arrived on January 4 1942. Commissioned in February, he instructed until the OTU was disbanded in October. Dawick then went to the Middle East and joined 238 Squadron at Burg-el-Arab, flying in support of the Eighth Army. Dawick sailed for New Zealand on November 19 1943. He went on a CFS course on Harvards at Tauranga, after which he was posted to 2 SFTS, Woodbourne. He moved to No 1 SFTS, Wigram in October 1944 and was released from the RNZAF on November 14 1945. After trying floriculture, Dawick went on to the nursing staff at the Kimberley Hospital, Levin, moving in later years on to administrative duties. He retired in December 1977. Dawick died on March 22 2005.

VICTOR GEORGE DAW FO

FL 6.11.41

KENNETH DAWICK

APO 14.12.38 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

41561

FO 6.11.40

32 Squadron

Daw, who was born in Portsmouth, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 31 1938, as a pupil pilot. He went to 9 FTS, Hullavington on January 28 1939, for No 9 Course, which ended on September 2 1939. He joined 32 Squadron at Kenley on September 5. On May 18 1940 the squadron began using Abbeville as a forward base, returning to Biggin Hill each evening. On the 19th Daw destroyed a Bf 110, on the 22nd a Bf 109, on June 8 two He 111s and a Bf 109 and on the 11th a Hs 126. Awarded the DFC (26.6.40), Daw was decorated by the King at a ceremony at Biggin Hill

PO 7.2.42 FO 7.11.42 FL 7.2.44

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THOMAS DAWSON 629727

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

Initial Training Squadron. He moved to the Advanced Training Squadron on November 7 1939. He was posted away to 11 Group Fighter Pool, St Athan on January 27 1940. On March 12 1940 Deacon joined 85 Squadron in France. On May 13 he destroyed a Bf 109, on the 14th destroyed a Do 17 and probably a He 111, on the 16th destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 19th two more. The squadron was withdrawn on the 20th to Debden. On August 17 Deacon joined 111 Squadron at Croydon. Next day he claimed the destruction of a Ju 88. He also claimed the destruction of a low-flying Do 17, as it was bombing Kenley. This aircraft was credited as destroyed by the ground defences. After this engagement, Deacon was coming in to land at Croydon, when he came under fire from the aerodrome defences. Wounded in the legs, he baled out from 200 feet. He was admitted to hospital and posted to RAF Kenley, as noneffective sick. He did not rejoin 111 Squadron until October 3 1940, at Drem. He was not allowed to fly until the 26th. Deacon was posted away from 111 for overseas on December 9 1940 and later flew on to the aircraft carrier HMS Furious at Liverpool, in Hurricane V 7798. On January 9 1941 Deacon flew off at Takoradi, Gold Coast. On the 10th, in Hurricane V 7770, he and five other pilots took off for the Middle East, led by a Blenheim. Deacon’s aircraft had a fuel pump fault and he took off late from Khartoum and flew the last three stages to Abu Sueir alone. On the 29th six Hurricanes flew from Tobruk to Ta Kali, Malta, Deacon in V 7771. He joined 261 Squadron there. On April 11 1941 Deacon destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged two others and on the 13th he shot down a Bf 109, which crashed into the sea. On return to Ta Kali, he was driven off by ground fire. He later returned to Ta Kali, where his undercarriage collapsed on landing. Deacon was injured. Taken off operational flying on May 5 1941, he was posted to 102 MU in Egypt on July 1. He was there until February 22 1942, when he went to 23 Air School, Waterkloof, South Africa, as an instructor. Commissioned in May 1942, Deacon did not leave South Africa until late December 1945. He stayed in the RAF on an extended commission and was released in 1948, as a Flight Lieutenant. Deacon died in 1992.

235 Squadron

Dawson joined the RAF about December 1938, as an Aircrafthand. He later volunteered for flying duties and after completing gunnery training he joined 235 Squadron. He was a Corporal, when he flew his first operational sortie as an Air Gunner with 235, on May 24 1940. Dawson was promoted to Sergeant between June 5 and 12 1940. He was still with 235 in November 1940. No futher service details traced.

FRANK SAMUEL DAY 123055

Sgt

Observer

British

248 Squadron

Day, of Chesham, Buckinghamshire, joined the RAFVR about August 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (759128). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 248 Squadron in Spring 1940. He was posted from 248 to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth on May 31 1940 and after converting to Blenheims, he rejoined the squadron on June 29 and served with it throughout the Battle of Britain. Commissioned in May 1942, Day was killed on July 24, aged 28. He was then with 86 Squadron at Skitten, Caithness, a general reconnaissance unit. Day was a member of the crew of a Bristol Beaufort that had taken off from Portreath on a ferry flight to Malta, but crashed into Roscroggan Chapel, near Camborne. All four on board were killed. A plaque was placed at the crash site in 2004. Day is buried in St Illogan’s churchyard, Illogan, Cornwall. PO 4.5.42

ROBERT LIONEL FRANK DAY 41263

FO

Pilot

British

141 Squadron

Day, of Herne Bay, was educated at Belvedere School there and The King’s School, Canterbury. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his training on August 29 1938, as a pupil pilot.

PO 1.5.42

HENRY GEORGE DEADMAN 902541

With training completed, Day was with 111 Squadron at Northolt on August 31 1939. He moved to 54 Squadron on September 2, then to 604 Squadron on September 5. He was admitted to hospital on September 19. On discharge, he rejoined 111 Squadron from RAF Uxbridge on October 13. Day was posted to 11 Group Pool, St Athan on November 20 1939, for training. From there he joined 141 Squadron at Grangemouth on December 9 1939. He flew his first operational sortie on July 9 1940 and was with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. During the night of May 6/7 1941 Day, flying with Pilot Officer F C A Lanning as his gunner, shot down a He 111 and on a later patrol the same night a Ju 88, which made a forced-landing on Holy Island, Northumberland. The aircraft was burned by the crew, who were all made PoW. Day and Lanning were both awarded the DFC (6.6.41). When 141 was being re-equipped with Beaufighters, they were posted to 410 (RCAF) Squadron at Ayr on July 14 1941. Day was serving with 132 Squadron at Ford in mid-June 1944, as a Flight Lieutenant, flying Spitfire IXs. On June 18 he was shot down and killed by flak near Evreux whilst chasing a FW 190, in Spitfire ML 120. He is buried in Connelles Cemetery, France. At some point he had qualified to become a member of the Guinea Pig Club.

Pilot British

Wop/AG

British

236 Squadron

He joined 236 Squadron late in 1939 and was a Wop/AG by June 1940. He was promoted to Sergeant from LAC between June 12 and 16. Deadman was still on 236 in November 1940. No further service details traced. He later changed his name by deed poll to Stewart.

EDWARD CHRISTOPHER DEANESLY 90251

FL

Pilot

British

152 Squadron Deanesly was born on January 27 1910 in Wolverhampton and educated at Wellington College. He was commissioned in the 6th Battalion of the South Staffordshire Regiment (TA) on December 31 1930, as a 2nd Lieutenant.

He resigned this commission and joined 605 Squadron, AAF in early 1937 and he was then commissioned on March 18. Embodied on August 24 1939, Deanesly was posted to 152 Squadron, when it was reformed at Acklington on October 1. He was still with the squadron in early July 1940. On the 25th he shared a Do 17 and a Ju 87. His Spitfire, K 9901, was damaged by return fire from a Ju 87, which punctured his glycol tank.He ditched in the Channel S of Portland, was picked up by the SS Empire Henchman, landed at Lyme Regis and admitted to hospital, wounded. He was operational again by August 25. Deanesly was shot down again on September 26, during a combat with Bf 109s twelve miles S of the Needles and baled out, wounded. He was rescued by a Royal Navy launch and landed at Swanage. His Spitfire, K 9982, crashed into the Channel.

ALBERT HENRY DEACON Sgt

Sgt

Deadman was born in Motherwell on July 4 1913. He was educated at Commercial School, Dunfermline and Queen Anne Secondary School. He was a musician before the war and joined the RAFVR on September 3 1939.

APO 29.10.38 PO 29.8.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

49756

FO 1.11.42 FL 1.5.44 FL 1.5.46

85 and 111 Squadrons

Deacon joined the RAF in July 1935, as an Aircrafthand (521323). He was posted to 2 Squadron at Manston on August 17, moved to the Home Aircraft Depot, Henlow on November 1, to 101 Squadron at Bicester on July 7 1936, then to 90 Squadron, also at Bicester, on May 1 1937. On October 12 1937 Deacon was posted to No 2 AAS, North Coates. He had earlier applied for pilot training, was selected and went to 12 E&RFTS, Ayr on January 15 1938, making his first flight in a DH 82 two days later. Deacon moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill on April 21. With the course completed, he was posted to CFS, Upavon for a flying instructor’s course. On December 29 1938 Deacon went to11 FTS, Shawbury and began instructing on the

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ORLANDO JOHN DEE

After a spell in hospital, Deanesly arrived at St Eval Fighter Sector HQ on December 15 1940 from 152 Squadron at Warmwell, on temporary duty as a Fighter Controller. On November 23 1940, 256 Squadron had been reformed at Catterick as a night-fighter unit and Deanesly joined it in early 1941, as a Flight Commander. Over the Birmingham area during the night of April 10/11 1941, Deanesly, with Sergeant W J Scott as his gunner, destroyed a He 111, on May 3/4, they shot down a Ju 88 over Merseyside and a Do 17, which crashed in North Wales and on May 7/8 they downed a He 111 over Manchester, which fell at Hazel Grove, Cheshire, with the crew baling out and becoming PoWs. Deanesly was awarded the DFC (30.5.41) and Scott the DFM. They were decorated by the King in October. Deanesly took command of 256 in September 1941 and led it until April 1942. He commanded RAF Castle Camps until October, being then posted to West Africa, where he was involved with maintaining the aircraft ferry route from Takoradi to Egypt. After commanding 298 Wing in the Middle East from January to August 1943, Deanesly took over 114 Wing until March 1944, when he was posted back to the UK. He became CFI at 107 OTU, Leicester East, training pilots on Dakotas, for paratroop and glider-towing operations. Deanesly took command of 575 Squadron in December 1944, a Dakota unit. He took part in the Rhine crossings in March 1945, towing a glider. He was released from the RAF in September 1945, as a Wing Commander. He began a plastics company in Birmingham and eventually employed around 150 people. Deanesly died in 1998.

906581

Pilot

British

40370

151 Squadron

ROGER EMILE de CANNAERT d’HAMALE Belgian

Pilot

New Zealander

54 Squadron

On October 28 1937 he began his training at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham, moved to 6 FTS, Netheravon in late January 1938, completed his training and joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 20 1938. The squadron began to receive Spitfires in March 1939 and on a flight in May Deere was overcome by anoxia and lost consciousness. His aircraft dived and he came to just in time to pull out but he suffered a broken ear drum and was off flying for three months. On May 23 1940 Deere and Pilot Officer J L Allen escorted Flight Lieutenant J A Leathart, who flew a Master to Calais/Marck airfield to pick up the CO of 74 Squadron, Squadron Leader F L White, who had made a forced-landing there. The rescue was effected and Deere shot down two Bf 109s and damaged another. Later the same day he destroyed a third. On May 24 Deere shot down a Bf 110 and on the 26th two more. On this day he was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant. Deere was leading 54 on a dawn patrol on the 28th, as part of a Wing of three squadrons. With poor visibility, he lost visual contact with the other two Hornchurch squadrons. The Spitfires of 54 crossed the Belgian coast alone. Sighting a Do 17, Deere gave chase with three members of his flight. He damaged the bomber but was hit by return fire and, with his glycol tank holed and producing smoke, he decided to make a forced-landing on a beach. He was knocked unconcsious as the Spitfire ploughed through the sand. After coming to, he got out of the now-burning aircraft and was taken by a soldier to OostDunkerke, where he had his head injury dressed. Deere decided to make for Dunkirk, commandeered a bicycle and was eventually picked up by British soldiers, heading for Dunkirk in a lorry. They abandoned it on the outskirts of the town because of congestion on the road. Deere got on a boat back to Dover, caught a train to London, went by Underground to Elm Park station and arrived back at Hornchurch some nineteen hours after he had taken off. He was carrying his parachute. He was awarded the DFC (12.6.40), which was presented to him by the King in a ceremony at Hornchurch on the 27th. Deere shared in the unconfirmed destruction of a Ju 88 on June 17. He destroyed a Bf 109 on July 9 and after colliding with another, he made a crash-landing in a cornfield, escaping with minor injuries. On July 24 he probably destroyed a Bf 109, on August 12 he destroyed two Bf 109s and a Bf 110, on the 15th he destroyed two Bf 109s, probably a third and damaged another but had to bale out at a very low level after being chased back across the Channel by two German fighters. He escaped with a slight fracture of the wrist and after an overnight stay at the Queen Victoria Cottage Hospital, East Grinstead, he returned to Hornchurch. Deere probably destroyed a Bf 109 and was then shot down by a Spitfire on August 28 and baled out. On the 30th he probably shot down a Do 17. The next day he was the pilot of one of three Spitfires caught in a bombing attack as they were taking off from Hornchurch. Deere’s aircraft was thrown on to its back and he was left suspended in his harness. He was released by one of the other two pilots involved, Pilot Officer E F Edsall, who, despite leg injuries, crawled across and released Deere, who then took his rescuer to Station Sick Quarters. On September 3 Deere probably destroyed a Bf 110. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (6.9.40). On January 8 1941 he was posted to SHQ Catterick and was made Operations Room Controller there. His portrait was done by Orde in February. Deere joined 602 Squadron at Ayr on May 7, as a Flight Commander. On June 5 he crash-landed on the clifftop at the Heads of Ayr, after his engine seized. On August 1 1941 he took command of 602 and on the same day he destroyed a Bf 109 over Gravelines. He was posted away in January 1942 and sent to America to lecture on fighter tactics. Deere returned to operations on May 1, taking command of 403 (RCAF) Squadron at North Weald. In August he was posted to HQ 13 Group on staff duties. He went for a course at RAF Staff College and returned to 13 Group. In February 1943, desperate to return to operations, Deere went as a supernumerary to 611 Squadron at Biggin Hill. Whilst there he destroyed a FW 190. He was given command of the Kenley Wing but the posting was changed and he went as Wing Leader to Biggin Hill. Deere was awarded the DSO (15.7.43). He led the Wing until September 15 1943, when

PO 29.6.40 FO 29.6.41 FL 29.6.42

Pilot

FO

Deere was born in Auckland on December 12 1917. In April 1937 he applied for a short service commission in the RAF and he sailed for the UK on September 23 in the RMS Rangitane.

He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 1, converted to Hurricanes, and joined 151 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on July 16. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on August 15 and shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 on the 18th. Debenham was shot down on the 24th, in combat with Bf 109s over Ramsgate, and was seriously injured, when his Hurricane, R 4183, crashed and burned out. He was admitted to Ramsgate Hospital and later underwent plastic surgery at the Queen Victoria Cottage Hospital, East Grinstead, making him a member of the Guinea Pig Club. Debenham was later in Malta, with 185 Squadron. Early in March 1943 he was posted to 249 Squadron, also based in Malta, as a Flight Commander. He moved with it to Grottaglie in Italy on October 27 1943. He was given command of 126 Squadron, part of the same Wing at Grottaglie, in November 1943. Debenham failed to return from a sortie over the Yugoslavian coast on December 16 1943. He and Wing Commander E N Woods were flying together and neither returned. It was thought that they had been shot down by Bf 109s or had collided with each other. With no claims being made by the Luftwaffe in that area on that day, the collision theory may be correct but it is most unlikely that it will ever be confirmed. Debenham’s name is on the Malta Memorial, Panel 6, Column 1.

Sgt

235 Squadron

ALAN CHRISTOPHER DEERE

Debenham, of Cambridge, joined the RAFVR about April 1939 as an Airman u/t Pilot (748037). Called up on September 1, he did his training and he was commissioned on June 29 1940.

1299998

British

He was killed on May 28 1941, aged 20 and still with 235. Dee is buried in Hamburg Cemetery, Ohlsdorf, Germany.

KENNETH BARRY LEMPRIERE DEBENHAM PO

Wop/AG

Dee joined the RAFVR in November 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. He completed his training and joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on September 13 1940.

PO (AAF) 18.3.37 FO (AAF) 21.11.38 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

81656

Sgt

46 Squadron

R E de Cannaert d’Hamale arrived in England on June 20 1940 and joined the RAFVR. He was a trained pilot from the Aviation Militaire Belge. He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 29 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 46 Squadron at Digby on August 13. On September 3 he damaged a Bf 110. He was shot down in combat over Kent on September 11 and baled out, landing at Court Lodge, Bodiam, with an injured forehead. His Hurricane, V 6549, crashed at School Fields, Sandhurst. On October 17 1940 de Cannaert d’Hamale made a bellylanding at Parkers Farm, Woodend, Abbess Roding because of bad visibility and lack of fuel. He was killed on November 1 1940, shot down by Bf 109s over Hawkinge. His Hurricane, V 7616, crashed at Smersole Farm, Swingfield. He was 19. He was buried in Folkestone New Cemetery. His body was repatriated to Belgium after the war and he is now buried in the Pelouse d’Honneur Cemetery of Brussels, at Evere.

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he became ill and was admitted to hospital. He then had 22 confirmed victories, 10 probables and a further 18 enemy aircraft damaged. Deere went to CGS, Sutton Bridge, to command the Fighter Wing. In March 1944 he got a staff job at 11 Group and in early May he took command of 145 (French) Airfield, 2nd TAF at Merston. He led the Wing over the invasion bridgehead early on the morning of D Day. The Wing moved to the Continent later in June and Deere was posted soon afterwards to HQ 84 Group Control Centre, as Wing Commander Plans. In July 1945 he was appointed Station Commander at Biggin Hill. He was granted a Permanent Commission in August and posted to command the Polish Mustang Wing at Andrews Field, Essex. When the Wing was disbanded in October 1945, he became Station Commander at Duxford. Deere held a series of appointments and commands in the post-war RAF prior to his retirement on December 12 1967, as an Air Commodore. He received the DFC (US), the C de G (Fr), was made an OBE (1.6.45) and was ADC to the Queen in 1962. He died on September 21 1995. In 1959 Deere’s book of his wartime experiences ‘Nine Lives’ was published in London.

He did not rejoin 32 Squadron but was sent on a special mission to Lisbon, to find out what German intentions were in North Africa. In April 1941he joined the Belgian Flight of 609 Squadron at Biggin Hill.He was killed on May 21 1941, when 609 escorted Blenheims to raid Bethune. He was jumped by a Bf 109 and baled out into the sea. A rescue boat went out from Ramsgate but no trace of him was found. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 32.

APO 9.1.38 PO 28.10.38 FO 28.7.40 FL 28.7.41 SL 14.6.43 SL 1.9.45 WC 1.7.51 GC 1.1.58 AC 1.7.64

He was at 5 OTU from July 12 and after converting to Blenheims, he joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island on August 5 1940. The squadron moved to St Eval on the 8th and Dejace was in ‘B’ Flight there. He joined ‘A’ Flight on detachment to Aldergrove, on October 17. ‘A’ Flight was posted from St Eval to Aldergrove on November 19 1940, where it combined with a flight from 235 Squadron, to reform 272 Squadron. Dejace flew his first operational sortie with 272 on November 21. He failed to return from a meteorological flight over enemy-occupied territory on July 26 1942. He was then a Flight Lieutenant and flying a Mosquito of 1401 Flight. Dejace was 33. He is buried in Liege (Robermont) Cemetery.

PO 19.7.40

LEONARD JOSEPH DEJACE 81632

PO

Pilot

Belgian

145 Squadron

Born in Ghent, Belgium on November 9 1909, de Hemptinne served with the Aviation Militaire Belge. At the outbreak of war he was a Lieutenant flying instructor. After the Germans attacked on May 10 1940, he moved with his unit to France and then on to French Morocco. After France fell, de Hemptinne went to England, via Gibraltar. He was commissioned in the RAFVR on July 30 1940 and went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on that day. After converting to Hurricanes, de Hemptinne joined 145 Squadron at Drem on August 17. He shared in the destruction of a He 115 over a convoy SE of Kinnairds Head on October 2. It landed on the sea and the crew were rescued from their dinghy. The aircraft had already

Pilot

Belgian

236 Squadron

FRANCOIS HENRI EDMOND JOSEPH ANDRE de LABOUCHERE 30593

Adjudant

Pilot

French

85 Squadron

F H E J A de Labouchere was born on September 18 1917 at the Chateau d’Hauterive, in the Aisne. In 1938 he joined l’Armée de l’Air, as a pupil at the flying school at Istres. He finished his training as a fighter pilot as the Armistice was signed by the French on June 22 1940. His father, an artillery officer, was killed on June 6 during the Battle of France. After being refused permission to fly to England, de Labouchere went with his flying school to Morocco. From there he boarded a ship carrying Polish troops to Britain and arrived on July 17. In late July de Labouchere went to RAF St Athan and moved to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum on July 29, for testing and grading and to Odiham on August 10, where he put in some 15 hours on Tiger Moths and Hectors with the No 1 Fighter Training Squadron of the Free French Air Force. On the 18th de Labouchere was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 85 Squadron at Castle Camps on September 13 1940. He was posted to 145 Squadron on December 3 1940, went to 249 Squadron at North Weald on the 5th and joined 242 Squadron at Stapleford Tawney on April 26 1941. He claimed his first victory on June 23, a Bf 109 shot down during a Blenheim escort. On September 13 1941 de Labouchere was posted to 615 Squadron at Manston and on the 18th he shot down a Bf 109 and he damaged two others. In November 1941 the first Free French fighter unit was formed, 340 Squadron at Turnhouse and de Labouchere joined it on the 7th, as a Flight Commander. During the Dieppe operation on August 19 1942 de Labouchere shot down a Do 217, shared another and damaged two more. Over Rouen on September 5 1942 he was leading Yellow section, when it was jumped by FW 190s out of the sun with de Labouchere and two of the section pilots being shot down and killed, only one pilot managing to regain his base. Awards held by de Labouchere were the Croix de la Liberation and the DFC (1.8.42).

Comte RUDOLPHE GHISLAIN CHARLES de HEMRICOURT de GRUNNE PO

Belgian

PO 12.7.40

been hit by anti-aircraft fire. On October 25 de Hemptinne made a forced-landing at High Beeches on Haywards Heath golf course, with engine failure. He got out, unhurt, before his Hurricane exploded. He suffered slight shock and was taken off flying for seven days by the Medical Officer. He was posted to the Belgian Flight of 609 Squadron at Biggin Hill on June 17 1941 and awarded the C de G (Belg)(21.7.41). On August 15 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed. On September 10 1941 de Hemptinne moved to 64 Squadron at Turnhouse and four days later he joined 122 Squadron at Catterick, as a Flight Commander. He was killed on May 5 1942, as a Flight Lieutenant with 122 Squadron. On a Boston escort to Lille, his Spitfire, BM 321, was shot down near Ypres by FW 190s of JG 26. He was buried at Ypres but his body was repatriated to Belgium after the war and reinterred in the Pelouse d’Honneur Cemetery of Brussels at Evere.

82158

Pilot

Dejace, of Liege, was in the Aviation Militaire Belge before the war. He escaped to England after the collapse of France and he was commissioned in the RAFVR on July 12 1940.

BAUDOUIN MARIE GHISLAIN de HEMPTINNE 82516

PO

32 Squadron

Born in Brussels on November 18 1911 de Hemricourt de Grunne did his military training in the cavalry and learned to fly privately in the early 1930s. In September 1936 he went to the war in Spain, as a volunteer for the Nationalist forces, as a soldier. He was wounded in November 1936 and once out of hospital, he was accepted for flying training. He subsequently flew He 51 and Fiat CR 32 fighters and was reputed to have destroyed fourteen Republican aircraft before returning to Belgium in June 1939. Mobilised into the Belgian infantry in September 1939, de Hemricourt de Grunne transferred into the Air Force and flew Hurricanes with 2/I/2 Groupe. After Belgium was overrun, he went to France. On June 22 the French signed an Armistice with the Germans and the Belgians were told to stay put. With other pilots, he reached Port Vendres, where, with the help of a British destroyer and the support of the Belgian Embassy in London, they caught a passing convoy and embarked on the SS Apapa on the 24th. After arriving in Liverpool on July 7, they were commissioned in the RAF VR on the 19th and de Hemricourt de Grunne converted to Hurricanes at 7 OTU, Hawarden, joining 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on August 9. On the 16th he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed, on the 17th a Bf 109 damaged and on the 18th he shared a Do 17. He was shot down by Bf 109s on this day and baled out, badly burned, and was admitted to hospital. His Hurricane, V 6535, possibly crashed at Ruckinge.

VICTOR BRETON de la PERELLE 36211

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

245 Squadron

Born on May 7 1919 at Winton, Southland, de la Perelle was educated at Southland Boys’ High School. In October 1938 he learned to fly at the Otago Aero Club and in November joined the RNZAF on a short service commission. Awarded his wings on April 19 1939, he completed his training and left for the UK in the Tamaroa on July 14. On the voyage he developed pneumonia and was grounded. He was posted to RAF Uxbridge for administrative duties and he later went to RAF Padgate.

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7/JG 27. Both men were killed; de Mancha was 23 years old. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 8.

Once again fit for flying, de la Perelle went to 9 FTS for a refresher course and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 9 1940, to convert to Hurricanes. He was posted to 245 Squadron at Aldergrove on the 28th and joined it on the 30th. He went to 258 Squadron on November 25 1940 and was made a Flight Commander in August 1941. The squadron was posted overseas in October and on the 30th the pilots, without aircraft, went to Abbotsinch and sailed in HMS Athene for Gibraltar, where they spent five weeks before sailing again. They finally reached Takoradi on January 1 1942. The pilots were flown to Port Sudan and there embarked on the carrier HMS Indomitable. After sailing south for nearly three weeks, they flew Hurricanes off on January 28 to Kemajoran, Java, moving on to Palembang, Sumatra, after refuelling. The same afternoon de la Perelle led his flight to Seletar airfield, Singapore to face the Japanese. After a few days the order came to withdraw and the serviceable remnants of 258 Squadron returned to Palembang. de la Perelle temporarily commanded the airfield in mid-February until a Japanese invasion drove 258 away to Java, leaving six pilots behind to help reform a very much-depleted 605 Squadron at Tjillitan. On February 21 1942 de la Perelle was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader and appointed Liaison Officer with the Dutch Air Force in Java. The situation deteriorated rapidly as he went into the hills with RAF and Dutch personnel, moving from one tea plantation to the next. On March 20 they were forced to surrender and were sent to a prison in Batavia, with de la Perelle in charge, he was the only senior officer left. He was moved to Amboina, where he remained until September 1944, when he went to Bandung in Java. He was released from a prison camp in Jakarta on September 17 1945. The first aircraft to arrive was a New Zealand one and the first person off was a nurse, who accepted the surrender of the Japanese. She was carrying 400 cigarettes for de la Perelle from his brother. Flown back to New Zealand, via Singapore and Australia, de la Perelle spent three months recuperating before returning to the UK and rejoining the RAF in February 1946. After a refresher course, he was given command of 165 Squadron at Duxford. He continued to serve in the RAF, retiring in 1958, as a Squadron Leader. In the Korean War he was seconded to the USAF and was awarded the Bronze Star (US) for secret work carried out in Korea. After retirement, de la Perelle lived in England and was Company Secretary for a business in Cambridge. He died there on June 11 1983. APO 28.11.38

PO 8.6.40

RICHARD STEPHEN DEMETRIADI 90145

Sgt

British

British

601 Squadron

He was detached from 601 to go to France on May 13 1940 and attached to 607 Squadron there. He had returned to 601 by May 22. Demetriadi was shot down into the Channel and killed on August 11 1940, during a combat off Portland, in Hurricane R 4092. The son of Sir Stephen Demetriadi KBE and brother-in-law of Flying Officer W H Rhodes-Moorhouse, Demetriadi was 21. He is buried in Cayeux-sur-Mer Communal Cemetery, France. His father gave land at Ditchling Beacon, Sussex to the National Trust, in memory of his son. PO (AAF) 25.7.38 PO 25.8.39 FO 25.1.40

XAVIER de CHERADE de MONTBRON 30610

Adjudant

Pilot

French

64 and 92 Squadrons

X de C de Montbron was born at Forsac on August 18 1916. When the Armistice was signed by the French on June 22 1940, he was at Avord. He escaped from France with fifteen others, boarding a Swedish boat at Bayonne that was bound for Casablanca. From there he sailed in a British cargo boat that was carrying Polish troops. He landed in Britain on July 17 1940 and went to RAF St Athan. On the 29th de Montbron and other French pilots moved to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum, for testing and grading. He went to RAF Odiham on August 10, where he flew about 15 hours on Tiger Moths and Hectors with the No 1 Fighter Training Squadron of the Free French Air Force before being posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 19, where he converted to Spitfires. He joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield on September 11 and moved to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill on October 2. He shared in the destruction of a Bf 109 on November 1, shared a Ju 88 on the 9th and probably destroyed a Bf 109 on December 1. Commissioned in March 1941, de Montbron went down over France on July 3 and was captured. He passed himself off to the Germans as a French-Canadian. He died following a flying accident in a Vampire at Mont-de-Marsan on April 2 1955. He was a Compagnon de la Liberation.

PO 16.8.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 17.8.41 SL 1.8.47

Pilot

Pilot

Demetriadi joined 601 Squadron, AAF in 1938, was commissioned in July and called to full-time service on August 25 1939.

ALAN LAWRENCE MARTIN DELLER 156643

FO

43 Squadron

Deller joined the RAFVR about October 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742160). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 46 Course, which ran from February 1 to June 26 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 6 1940, converted to Hurricanes and was posted to 43 Squadron at Northolt on August 3. Deller made a forced-landing at Tangmere on the 12th, after an action over the Channel and on the 13th he probably destroyed a Ju 88. On September 7 he baled out, unhurt, following a combat over Ashford. His Hurricane, V 7309, crashed and burned out at Babylon Farm, Sutton Valence. He made his last flight with 43 Squadron on September 15 1940. Deller was commissioned from Warrant Officer in February 1943, and was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant.

PO 16.3.41

RENE JEAN GHISLAIN DEMOULIN 116107

Sgt

Pilot

Belgian

235 Squadron

Demoulin, of Comblain-au-Pont, Liege, was born there on May 25 1920. He began his training with the Aviation Militaire Belge on June 1 1939 and qualified as a pilot on April 29 1940.His unit was withdrawn to France on May 15 and he left St Jean de Luz for England on June 23 1940.

PO 27.2.43 FO 27.8.43 FL 27.2.45

RICARDO ADRIANI de MANCHA 80546

PO

Pilot

British

43 Squadron

Demoulin joined the RAFVR on July 1 (1300000) and he went to the Belgian Depot at Gloucester. After being confirmed as a Sergeant-Pilot, he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 13. After he had converted to Blenheims, he joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on August 5 1940 and served with it in the Battle of Britain. On November 19 1940 Demoulin was posted to Aldergrove, where one flight each from 235 and 236 Squadrons were combined to reform 272 Squadron. He flew his first sortie with 272 on November 24. The squadron left for the Middle East on May 24 1941, arriving at Abu Sueir on the 28th. On July 19 the squadron flew from Edku, Egypt to Malta for a period. On the 28th Demoulin shared in damaging four Cant Z 501s in an attack on the seaplane base at Marsala.

The son of an Italian father and an English mother, de Mancha joined the RAFVR about July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741812). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 11 FTS, Shawbury on No 17 Course, which ran from November 20 1939 to June 1 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 8, converted to Hurricanes, and then joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere on July 6.He shared in the destruction of He 111s on July 12 and 13. In a combat ten miles S of the Needles on the 21st, de Mancha collided with a Bf 109, flown by Leutnant Kroker of

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completed his flying training at 12 FTS, Grantham on No 7 Course, which ran from January 1 to June 9 1940. He was commissioned and then posted to 2 School of Army Co-operation, Andover on June 15. He moved to 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 22nd and after converting to Blenheims, he joined 600 Squadron at Northolt on July 9. Denby was detached back to Andover on the 11th, for night flying training. He rejoined 600 on the 24th. Denby probably destroyed a Ju 88 during the night of September 27/28, which disappeared into cloud, on fire. In the evening of March 13 1941 Denby, with Pilot Officer G Guest as his radar operator, shot down a He 111 raiding Glasgow. It crashed at Dunure, Ayrshire. Denby was awarded the DFC (22.4.41), credited with one enemy aircraft destroyed and two probables. He damaged a Ju 88 during the night of May 8/9 near Watchet, Somerset, again with Guest. In May 1942 Denby was posted away to HQ 12 Group, to be Squadron Leader Night Ops. He returned to operations in July 1942, when he joined 125 Squadron at Fairwood Common, as a Flight Commander. On October 13 he probably destroyed a He 111. Denby was killed on December 10 1942, as a Squadron Leader with 125. He crashed into the sea off the Shetlands, when his Beaufighter developed engine trouble. Denby is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 65 and on a memorial plaque at Dulwich College, unveiled on March 14 2002.

Commissioned in August 1941, Demoulin shared in damaging two Ju 52s over the Gulf of Bomba on September 24. On November 16 1941 he damaged a Ju 87 near Derna, on the 18th destroyed a Ju 52 at Timimi airfield, on the 23rd shared in destroying four SM 79s on the ground at Barce airfield and on December 23 1941 he destroyed a Ju 52 on Agedabia airfield. In July 1942 Demoulin returned to the UK. After being briefly at 2 OTU, Montrose, he joined No 3 Delivery Flight, remaining with it until November 1942, when he was posted to 171 Squadron at Gatwick, where Belgian pilots were being trained on Tomahawks, to carry out tactical reconnaissance duties. In January 1943 Demoulin was posted to 349 Squadron, recently formed in Nigeria, with Tomahawks. In June 1943 he rejoined 272 Squadron, then at Takali, Malta. On July 22 he shared a Ju 52 near Greece. In August he was promoted to Flight Lieutenant and in February 1944 to Acting Squadron Leader and given command of a flight. De Moulin was killed on April 6 1944, as a Squadron Leader with 272 Squadron. His Beaufighter, LZ 488, crashed into the sea four miles off the French coast near Port-Vendres, whilst attacking shipping. He was 23 and is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 12, Column 2. He held the Croix de Chevalier de l’Ordre de Leopold avec Palme and the Croix de Guerre avec Palme et Lion. PO 16.8.41

JEAN DEMOZAY FR 297

2nd Lt

Pilot

French

1 Squadron

PO 9.6.40 FO 9.6.41 FL 9.6.42

Demozay was born in Nantes on March 21 1916. He joined l’Armée de l’Air in 1936 but was invalided out on medical grounds and became a pilot with a civil airline.

HERBERT DAVID DENCHFIELD 748168

Pilot

British

British

610 Squadron

In May 1939 Denchfield joined the RAFVR at Luton, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748168) and did his weekend flying at 29 E&RFTS there. Called to full-time service on September 1, he was posted to 4 ITW, Bexhill in November. On April 30 1940 Denchfield went to 15 EFTS, Redhill. He moved to 15 FTS, Brize Norton on June 17, then to 15 AFTS, Chipping Norton on August 11, for advanced flying training. From September 23 he was at 7 OTU, Hawarden, converting to Spitfires, and he joined 610 Squadron at Acklington on October 7 1940. On a Blenheim-escort to St Omer on February 2 1941 the squadron was attacked by Bf 109s and Denchfield’s aircraft was hit. Unable to regain control, he baled out at 5000 feet and after landing in a field he was captured by the Germans. He was photographed shortly afterwards. Denchfield (PoW No 426) went first to Dulag Luft at Frankfurt and was subsequently in Stalag Luft I at Barth, Stalag 8B at Lamsdorf, Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan, Stalag Luft 6 at Heydekrug, Stalag 355 at Thorn in Poland and finally Stalag 357 at Fallingbostel, near Hanover. Released on May 1 1945, Denchfield was flown back to the UK a few days later in a Lancaster of 617 Squadron. He was released from the RAF on December 12 1945, as a Warrant Officer. Denchfield joined A V Roe in February 1946, as a Design Draughtsman/Engineer. On July 23 1949 he rejoined the RAFVR, as a Flight Sergeant, and later instructed as a P1 at 6 RFS, Sywell. He served until 1953, when 6 RFS was disbanded and the RAFVR became defunct. When he retired in November 1984, Denchfield was with British Aerospace, Hatfield, overseeing electrical and avionics installations. He died in December 2012.

GEORGE LOVELL DENHOLM 90190

SL

Pilot

British

603 Squadron Denholm was born at Bo’ness, West Lothian on December 20 1908. He was educated at Fettes School and went on to St John’s College, Cambridge, where he read Economics. After a short spell in the Territorial Army, Denholm joined 603 Squadron, AAF in June 1933. He qualified as a Flying Instructor in July 1937. He was embodied on August 23 1939. Over the Firth of Forth on October 16, Denholm shared in the destruction of a He 111, the first enemy aircraft shot down over British territory in the war. He was detached from 603 to RAF Northolt on October 23, for a ten-day Air Fighting course. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on November 18 1939. On January 10 1940 Denholm and three other pilots were attached to RAF

GORDON ALFRED DENBY PO

Pilot

Denchfield was born on November 2 1919 at Eckington, near Staveley, Derbyshire. He finished his education at Hemel Hempstead Grammar School and after leaving, he worked as a clerk.

In September 1939 he was a liaison officer at HQ RAF Rheims. He transferred to the Operations Room at 67 Wing, DussyLacoge in December. In January 1940 Demozay was appointed official interpreter to No 1 Squadron and was with them until the squadron was withdrawn to England on June 18. He was left on the airfield at Nantes with sixteen groundcrew, who were to go to La Rochelle in a truck. A Bristol Bombay stood on the airfield with full fuel tanks but had been left there because it had a broken tail-wheel. This defect was swiftly put right and Demozay flew himself and the airmen out of France, heading for Tangmere, but at the request of his passengers he put down at Sutton Bridge. At Free French HQ he requested to join the RAF and went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 9 1940, converted to Hurricanes and then joined No 1 Squadron at Wittering on October 16 1940. He damaged a Ju 88 on November 8 and destroyed a Bf 109 a few days later. Demozay claimed a Bf 109 on March 24 1941, a He 111 at night on May 10 and a Bf 110, shot down into the sea on the 25th. Demozay was posted to 242 Squadron at North Weald on June 21 1941. The next day he destroyed a Bf 109 and another on the 23rd. He left 242 on the 29th and joined 91 Squadron at Hawkinge, as a Flight Commander. On July 10 Demozay probably destroyed a Hs 126 on the ground and damaged another, on the 16th he got a probable Bf 109 and on the 17th he strafed and sank a German minesweeper. Between July 26 1941 and January 2 1942 Demozay claimed eleven Bf 109s destroyed, including one on the ground; one probably destroyed and another four damaged, including two on the ground. Posted then to HQ 11 Group for a rest, he returned to 91 Squadron on June 25 1942, to command. Demozay destroyed a FW 190 on September 23 and two more on October 31. In February 1943 he was posted to North Africa, to form a flying school for Free French pilots. Recalled to London in April 1944, he was sent on a mission to the USSR and on August 9 1944 he took command of a Free French bomber group. Demozay was made Deputy Commander of all flying training schools in France on October 24 1945. He was killed on December 19 1945. The aircraft in which he was returning from London crashed at Le Duc. He was credited with 21 confirmed victories in over 400 operational sorties and received many honours and awards; the DFC (Nov 1941) and Bar (July 1942), the DSO (Dec 1942), Ordre de Liberation (May 1941), C de G (Fr), C de G (Belg), Legion d’Honneur (Dec 1944), the DFC (US) and the Czech Military Cross. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in February 1941, using Demozay’s nom-de-guerre ‘Moses Morlaix’.

80812

Sgt

600 Squadron

Born on February 27 1915, Denby, of Herne Hill was at Dulwich College from 1928 to 1932. He went to work for the Imperial Tobacco Co and later Roneo Ltd. In November 1938 Denby joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742433) and began weekend flying at 15 E&RFTS, Redhill. Called up at the outbreak of war, Denby was posted to No 1 ITW, Cambridge. He

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JOHN MONTAGUE DERBYSHIRE

Montrose, for convoy protection duties. On March 12 1940 Denholm damaged a Do 17 off Aberdeen. He was detached to RAF Turnhouse on April 22, for Ops Room duties and he rejoined 603 on May 6. On June 5 1940 he was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader and appointed CO of 603 Squadron. On the 26th Denholm claimed the probable destruction of a He 111, on July 3 he shared a Ju 88 and on August 28 he destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another. Two days later he was shot down himself, in combat with Bf 110s over Deal. He baled out, unhurt, and his Spitfire, L 1067, crashed at Hope Farm, Snargate. On September 2 Denholm damaged a Bf 109 and on the 15th he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and two Do 17s damaged. In this latter engagement he was hit by return fire and baled out, unhurt. His Spitfire, R 7019, crashed on Warren Farm, Fairlight, Hastings. On the 18th Denholm damaged a Bf 109, probably destroyed another and shared another probable, on October 20 he damaged a Bf 109, on November 11 destroyed another and on the 29th he shared in the destruction of a Bf 110. Denholm was awarded the DFC (22.10.40). He relinquished command of 603 in April 1941 and became a Controller in the Operations Room at Turnhouse. On December 15 1941 he took command of 1460 Flight, then forming at Acklington with Turbinlite Havocs. He left the unit in March 1942 and took command of 605 Squadron at Ford from Peter Townsend in August. On March 11 1943 Denholm shot down an unidentified enemy aircraft on a night-intruder operation over Gilze-Rijen, Netherlands. Denholm was posted away from 605 in May 1943. He received a Mention in Despatches in 1945 and was relesed from the RAF in 1947, as Group Captain. He died in July 1997.

42110

PO

Pilot

British

236 Squadron

Derbyshire was born in Worcester on June 5 1920. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his flying training at 7 E&RFTS, Desford in January 1939, as a pupil pilot. After a short induction course at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, Derbyshire was posted to 9 FTS, Hullavington on March 27. With training completed, he joined 236 Squadron at Stradishall on November 6 1939. He was detached to RAF Locking on December 10, for a parachute course, and rejoined the squadron on the 17th. Derbyshire served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain He crashed at St Eval on November 3 1940, when he ran out of fuel and hit high tension cables. He was admitted to Truro Hospital and spent the next eighteen months in various hospitals. After recovery, Derbyshire went to a desk job at the Ministry of Aircraft Production. He later went as an instructor to 18 E&RFTS, Fair Oaks but whilst there he lost his flying category. Posted to India, Derbyshire became Senior Admin Officer at HQ RAF Calcutta. He was released from the RAF in May 1946, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 2000. APO 13.3.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41

CHARLES JEAN MARIE PHILIPPE de SCITIVAUX de GREISCHE PO (AAF) 27.6.33 FO (AAF) 27.12.34 FL 23.8.39 SL 1.9.40 WC 1.3.42

30653

Captain

FL

Pilot

Canadian

236 Squadron

Born in London, Denison was brought up in Vernon, British Columbia. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on January 6 1936, as a pupil pilot.

JEAN-PAUL JOSEPH DESLOGES C 788

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

FO

Pilot

Canadian

1 (RCAF) Squadron

Born in Hull, Quebec on April 25 1913, Desloges joined the RCAF on October 1 1937. He arrived in the UK on June 2 1940, with No 1 (RCAF) Squadron He was detached from the squadron on July 5 to RAF Uxbridge for a short R/T course.

FO 6.8.38 FL 6.8.40 SL 1.9.41 WC 1.1.44

DENIS AUSTIN DENTON 650890

245 Squadron

In hospital at Boulogne, hearing that the arrival of the Germans was imminent, he made his way to the port area, gathered together some sailors and then convinced a tug master to take them all to England. They landed at Hastings, where de Scitivaux collapsed. When he was better, he returned to France but when capitulation came he took a transport plane and flew it to Gibraltar. Flown back to England, he was made ADC to Admiral Muselier. When his arm was finally healed, he went into the RAF, reporting to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 29 1940. After conversion to Hurricanes, de Scitivaux joined 245 Squadron at Aldergrove on October 16. He went to 253 Squadron at Kenley on November 29, to 249 at North Weald on March 29 1941, to 242 at Stapleford on April 27 and finally to 615 Squadron on September 19. He was posted on November 10 1941 to 340 Squadron, then forming at Drem, as a Flight Commander. He took command in January 1942. On April 10 he was shot down near St Omer, baled out, landed in a tree and was captured, wounded in both legs and both arms. His fiancé, who took eighteen months to reach England, via Algeria, Portugal, South America and Bermuda, arrived two days later. de Scitivaux, who was described by Mouchotte as ‘an excellent pilot, alive with grand aggressive spirit, supported by long experience’ escaped five times whilst a prisoner of the Germans (PoW No 39631), the last successful one just before the end of the war. He was a Vice-Admiral d’Escadre, Compagnon de la Liberation, Grand Officer de la Legion d’Honneur and had the DFC, C de G with six palms and the Grand Croix du Merite National. He died in Toulon on August 10 1986.

On March 14 he was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham and after completing his training, he joined 213 Squadron at its formation at Northolt on March 8 1937. It went to Church Fenton on July 1. Denison was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on November 6 1939 and posted from 213 to the recentlyreformed 236 Squadron at Stradishall. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on the 7th. Denison was detached from 236 to RAF Northolt on June 4 1940, for an Air Fighting course, rejoining his squadron on the 12th. He was recalled from leave after 236’s CO, Squadron Leader P E Drew, was reported ‘Missing’ on August 1. Denison took temporary command of the squadron from the 4th to the 15th, when Squadron Leader G W Montagu arrived and took over. On October 27 Denison went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, for night flying training. He was posted to 87 Squadron at Colerne on November 29 and moved to 79 Squadron at Pembrey on December 16 1940, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. He commanded 80 Squadron in the Western Desert from April to September 1942 and commanded 46 Squadron at Idku from June to August 1944 and again in November/December 1944. Denison was awarded the AFC (1.1.45). He returned to Canada after release from the RAF. In 1946 Denison joined Trans-Canada Airlines, but moved shortly afterwards to Canadian Pacific Airlines. He later joined Yellowknife Airways. He was killed in a flying accident at Yellowknife on February 6 1951. He was the pilot of an Avro Anson on a charter cargo flight which took of from Yellowknife but failed to gain height and struck a tall building in the town. Both Denison and his passenger were killed. A subsequent enquiry found that the aircraft was overloaded and had been standing in the open for six days before the flight. Accumulations of frost and snow had not been cleared from the wings, affecting lift. APO 2.3.36 PO 6.1.37

French

Born on August 2 1911 at Rosnay, de Scitivaux joined the Navy and went into the French Naval Air Service. In action, as a fighter pilot on May 10 1940, he shot down an enemy aircraft and was then wounded in one arm.

RICHARD WARREN DENISON 37596

Pilot

236 Squadron Desloges reported to RAF Duxford after making a forcedlanding due to enemy action on August 26 1940. His Hurricane, P 3872, was damaged in an action against Dorniers NW of North Weald. He was unhurt and his aircraft was repairable. He was shot down on August 31, during an attack on Do 215s and baled out, severely burned. His Hurricane,N 2530, crashed and burned out at Gravesend. He was posted away to 112 (RCAF) Squadron, a holding unit, on September 2, as non-effective sick. Desloges was promoted to Flight Lieutenant on September 24 1940 and on November 7 he was

Denton, from Lancashire, joined the RAF in July 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He volunteered for flying duties, trained as a Wop/AG and joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island on July 24 1940 and served with it during the Battle of Britain. He was posted away to Aldergrove on November 19 1940, where 272 Squadron was about to be reformed from one flight each from 235 and 236 Squadrons. He flew his first sortie with 272 on November 21. Denton was killed on August 30 1944, as a Warrant Officer with 502 Squadron, operating from St David’s in Halifaxes. He is buried in Escoublac-la-Baule War Cemetery, France.

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He relinquished his commission in 600 Squadron and was granted a commission in Class ‘A’ of the AAFRO on August 13 1938. Called for full-time service on August 24 1939, Devitt rejoined 600 Squadron at Hendon. He was posted to the Operations Room at Tangmere on September 1, for Ops Room duties. On March 8 1940 Devitt joined 152 Squadron at Martlesham Heath, as CO, with the rank of Acting Squadron Leader. On July 25 1940 he damaged a Bf 109 and on September 25 he damaged a Ju 88 S of Bristol. On this day his petrol tank was hit by return fire from a He 111 engaged W of Bristol and he made a forced-landing at Skew Bridge, Newton St Loe, near Bath. On September 30 he damaged two He 111s. On November 14 1940 Devitt relinquished command of 152 and was posted to HQ 9 Group, as a Controller. In April 1941 he went to HQ 14 Group, as Senior Controller. In December 1941 he was posted to HQ 221 Group, Rangoon, leading the final withdrawal of troops out of Burma to Assam on May 8 1942. Devitt was Wing Commander Training at HQ 224 Group, Calcutta until June 1943, when he became Station Commander at RAF Ranchi. In January 1944 he was given command of 189 Wing at Silchar and in September he was promoted to Group Captain, as Ops, SEAC, Barrackmore, Calcutta. Invalided home in November 1944, Devitt went to Air Ministry, London until released in 1945. He commanded 615 Squadron RAuxAF from 1949 to 1950. He died in 1997.

notified of his impending posting to Canada. He was killed in a flying accident in North Africa on May 8 1944, as a Wing Commander. Desloges is buried in Dely Ibrahim War Cemetery, Algeria.

FRANCOIS XAVIER EGENOFF de SPIRLET 82163

PO

Pilot

Belgian

87 Squadron

F X E de Spirlet was born at Ayeneux, near Liege, Belgium on December 3 1916. He studied for a BA at the University of Turin. Called up on September 24 1936, he joined the Aviation Militaire Belge, trained as an Observer and went on Reserve on June 24 1937. He was recalled on May 2 1938 and placed on indefinite leave. However, he applied for pilot training, returned of his own accord, with the rank of Sergeant, and he began his flying training at Wevelghem in September 1938. After completing his course in August 1939, he was posted to No 7 Flight of the 3rd Regiment of Aeronautics at Evere, flying Fairey Foxes. Commissioned in November 1939, he joined No 1 Flight, No 1 Group of the 3rd Regiment and was still with this unit when the Germans invaded on May 10 1940. On the 12th the unit moved into France but never became operational. After the French collapse, de Spirlet and other Belgian pilots made their way to Gibraltar, where they embarked in the SS Apapa for England, arriving at Liverpool on July 7 1940. Commissioned in the RAFVR on July 19, de Spirlet went to 7 OTU, Hawarden. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 87 Squadron at Exeter on August 12. He moved to 56 Squadron at Middle Wallop on November 29 1940 and on April 15 1941 de Spirlet joined 609 Squadron at Biggin Hill. He shot a Bf 109 down into the sea on June 17 and was himself shot down on the 22nd, baling out into the Channel. He was picked up by an ASR launch, admitted to Ramsgate Hospital and rejoined 609 two days later. He was awarded the C de G (Belge) and Palm on July 21 1941 and appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander in August. On the 25th he shot down a Bf 109 inland from Gravelines. He was awarded a second Palm on August 29. He was still with 609 Squadron in June 1942. On the 26th he was piloting one of four Typhoons taking off in formation from Duxford. One of his tyres burst and his aircraft swung across the runway into one of the other Typhoons. He died from his injuries. He was buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery. He was posthumously awarded a third Palm to his C de G on July 3 1942. His remains were repatriated to Belgium on October 29 1949 and re-interred in Brussels Town Cemetery at Evere.

PO (RAFO) 14.3.32 PO (AAF) 13.7.33 FO (AAF) 13.1.35 FL (AAF) 13.7.36 FL 24.8.39 SL 1.6.40 WC 1.7.44 SL (RAuxAF) 1.4.49

JOHN MICHAEL FIRTH DEWAR 72462

Pilot

British

British

229 Squadron

Dewar was called to full-time service on March 6 1940. He completed his training at RAF College FTS, Cranwell and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 22, to convert to Hurricanes. He joined 229 Squadron at Wittering on July 20 1940. On September 11 Dewar probably destroyed a He 111 and damaged a Ju 88, on the 15th he damaged a He 111, on the 25th destroyed a Bf 110, on the 26th destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 27th he damaged a He 111. On October 4 he damaged a Ju 88, on the 24th damaged a Do 17 and on November 14 probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another. He was killed on March 30 1941, still with 229 Squadron. Dewar and Pilot Officer R A L Du Vivier (qv) both failed to return from a patrol. It was thought that they had probably collided and crashed into the sea, in Hurricanes V 6872 and W 9307 respectively. Dewar was 24 years old. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 30.

DERRICK CANUT DEUNTZER Sgt

Pilot

Dewar, of Hitchin, Herts, was born on May 2 1917 and educated at Rugby School and Trinity College, Cambridge, where he read Mechanical Sciences. He was a member of the University Air Squadron and was commissioned in the RAFVR in September 1938.

PO 20.7.40

111486

FO

79 and 247 Squadrons PO (RAFVR) 27.9.38 PO 6.3.40 FO 11.5.40

Deuntzer was born in Greenford, Middlesex on September 21 1919. He joined the RAFVR about December 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741172).Called up on September 1 1939, he did his elementary training at 4 EFTS, Brough.

JOHN SCATLIFFE DEWAR 26029

He completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 21 Course, which ran from June 10 to September 7 1940. Deuntzer arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 7th and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 79 Squadron at Pembrey on the 30th. He moved to 247 Squadron at Roborough on October 26 1940. Still with 247 in September 1941, Deuntzer was flying as No 2 to his Flight Commander, Flight Lieutenant K W MacKenzie, when the latter was shot down and captured during a dusk attack on Lannion airfield, Brittany on the 29th. Commissioned on October 29 1941, Deuntzer went to 56 OTU, Sutton Bridge, as an instructor. He joined 43 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on September 28 1942. The squadron left for Gibraltar on October 28, arriving there on November 5 and reaching Maison Blanche, Algeria on the 8th. On April 18 1943 Deuntzer destroyed a Me 210. He served with 43 Squadron in Tunisia, Malta, Sicily and Italy until January 9 1944, when his tour ended and he was posted away. Deuntzer was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in New Zealand on December 14 2010.

Pilot

British

British

87 and 213 Squadrons

He was posted to the School of Naval Co-operation, Leeon-Solent on July 18 1929. Dewar joined 822 Squadron on the carrier HMS Furious on May 6 1933 and was posted to 801 (Fleet Fighter) Squadron, also on the Furious, on July 10 1934. On one occasion, whilst serving in Furious, Dewar was washed overboard in a gale in the Bay of Biscay but was quickly rescued. Dewar went to the Aircraft and Armament Experimental Establishment at Martlesham Heath, as a test pilot, on June 23 1936. He was posted to SHQ Thorney Island on March 26 1938. He was leader of No 12 Delivery Flight, which took off from Thorney Island on June 7 1939 and arrived at Ismailia on June 10. On November 20 1939 Dewar was detached from Thorney Island and arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan, for a Hurricane refresher course. He was posted to 60 Wing in France on the 25th and on December 2 1939 he took command of 87 Squadron at Lille/Seclin. He broke his shoulder in a flying accident on May 6 1940 but continued to fly regularly. The squadron destroyed more than sixty enemy aircraft during its stay in France. Dewar

PETER KENNETH DEVITT SL

Pilot

Dewar was born at Mussoori, Lahore Province, India in 1907. He was educated at The King’s School, Canterbury, where he was a member of the OTC and played in the Cricket Xl and Rugby XV. He entered RAF College, Cranwell, as a Flight Cadet, in January 1926. He was a brilliant student with ‘exceptional’ ratings. Dewar graduated in December 1927 and on the 17th of the month he joined 13 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Andover.

PO 29.10.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 29.10.43

90080

WC

152 Squadron

Devitt learned to fly privately at West Malling in 1931. He was commissioned in the RAFO in March 1932 and learned to fly in Bristol Fighters at Filton, Bristol. He relinquished this commission when he was granted one in 600 Squadron, AAF at Hendon in July 1933.

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On May 21 Dexter was flying a tactical reconnaissance of the Arras/Cambrai/Amiens area when he was attacked by Bf 109s. In the ensuing engagment Dexter shot one down with his forward-firing gun and AC Webb, the gunner, shot down a second. The Lysander, L 4793, was badly damaged but Dexter managed to return to base. For this action he was awarded the DFC (23.7.40). The squadron withdrew to Redhill on June 3 1940. On August 22 Dexter was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden, converted to Spitfires and joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on September 3. He had made five operational sorties, before moving to 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on the 16th. Dexter claimed a Bf 109 destroyed over the Channel on the 27th. After this action he flew back with Pilot Officer P M Cardell of 603, when the latter, after being wounded in combat over the Channel, tried to reach the English coast. Cardell was forced to bale out just off-shore at Folkestone. Dexter tried to draw attention to Cardell’s plight but having failed to do so he made a forced-landing on Folkestone beach and got into a boat, going to his friend’s rescue, but Cardell was dead when they reached him. On September 30 Dexter probably destroyed a Bf 109, on October 2 he shot down a Bf 109 S of Canterbury but was then himself shot down. He started to bale out, wounded in the leg. His leg was trapped as he attempted to abandon the aircraft and it had fallen 15,000 feet before he managed to wrench his foot free of his flying boot, dislocating his knee. Dexter was just high enough for his parachute to open. He was admitted to Croydon Hospital and later moved to Torquay. Dexter returned to the squadron in April 1941. On June 26 he was posted to 611 Squadron at Hornchurch. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on that day and he destroyed another and probably a second on July 7. The squadron was part of the escort for bombers attacking the marshalling yards at Hazebrouck on July 14 1941. Over Boulogne, Dexter collided with Sergeant Panter of 54 Squadron and was reported ‘Missing’. The Red Cross later reported that Dexter had been picked up dead in his parachute. Panter also baled out and was captured. Dexter is buried in the Samer Communal Cemetery, France.

was credited with five, among them two Ju 87s destroyed on May 11 and another destroyed on the 12th. He was one of the first four officers to receive the double award of DSO and DFC (31.5.40). The squadron was withdrawn to England on May 22 and after a few days at Debden it moved to Church Fenton to refit. On July 5 87 Squadron moved to Exeter. On the 6th Dewar assumed command of the station, although he was not posted from 87 Squadron until the 12th. On July 11 he claimed two Bf 110s destroyed and probably another. Dewar was appointed Acting Wing Commander on July 28, with effect from the 5th. He continued to fly occasional operational sorties, generally with 213 Squadron. On August 13 he shared a Ju 88 and on the 25th he destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged a Bf 109. Dewar failed to arrive at Tangmere on a routine flight from Exeter on September 11 1940, in 213 Squadron Hurricane V 7306, and was reported ‘Missing’. His body was washed up at Kingston Gorse, Sussex on September 30. He is buried in St John the Baptist churchyard, North Baddesley, Hampshire. PO 17.12.27 FO 17.6.29 FL 1.2.34 SL 1.2.38 WC 1.9.40

ROBERT BASIL DEWEY 42815

PO

Pilot

British

611 and 603 Squadrons

Dewey, from Portsmouth, joined the RAF on a short service commission in August 1939 and began his elementary flying training on August 8, as a pupil pilot. He moved on to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on November 6 for No 16 Course. He went to 10 B&GS, Warmwell on May 10 1940 with the Advanced Training Squadron of 6 FTS, for armament training, the final part of the course, finishing on May 17. Next day Dewey went to 5 OTU, Aston Down and after converting to Spitfires, he was posted to 611 Squadron at Digby on June 9 1940. Dewey moved to 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 27. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 30th. This may be the one that crashed and burned out at Kentwyns, Nutfield. On October 20 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and another damaged. On October 27 Dewey was shot down in a surprise attack by Bf 109s S of Maidstone. He was killed, when his Spitfire, P 7365, hit a tree at Apple Tree Corner, Chartham Hatch, as he attempted a forced-landing. Dewey was 19 and is buried in Hornchurch Cemetery, Essex. APO 23.10.39 PO 18.5.40

APO 4 3 39 PO 30.9.39 FO 30.9.40

KENNETH SHORTLAND DEWHURST 41907

PO

Pilot

British

ROBERT GEORGE ELPHINSTON DIAMANT

234 Squadron

78349 Born on March 24 1914 in Birmingham, Dewhurst went into the RAF on a short service commission in January 1939. He began his ab initio course on February 6. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on April 15 for a short induction course and moved on to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on May 1 for No 12 Course.

PO 8.4.40

ROLAND HAROLD DIBNAH 42675

British

PO

Pilot

Canadian

1 and 242 Squadrons

Dibnah, of Winnipeg, joined the RAF on a short service commission in June 1939 and began his elementary training on July 10, as a pupil pilot. After completing his training, he arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, converted to Hurricanes and was posted to No 1 Squadron in France on April 27 1940. On May 29 Dibnah was wounded in the thigh in a combat over Ochamps and made a forced-landing at Nancy. He rejoined No 1 Squadron, then based at Tangmere, on July 19. On August 31 1940 he damaged a Bf 110 near Chelmsford and on September 6 he destroyed a Bf 110 in the Kenley/Tunbridge Wells area. Dibnah was posted to 242 Squadron at Coltishall on September 21 and remained with the squadron until December 30 1940, when he was posted to CFS, Upavon, probably for an instructors’ course. In January 1944 Dibnah joined 91 Squadron at Tangmere. He transferred to the RCAF on January 18 1945 and was released on October 21 1947, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in Canada in 1990.

PETER GRENFELL DEXTER Pilot

600 Squadron

He flew for the first time in a Blenheim on June 3, apparently trying out the AI apparatus. He made further flights on June 5, 19 and July 2. Diamant flew on an operational sortie on July 17, with Flying Officer J G Cave as pilot and Pilot Officer J R Juleff as Air Gunner. He made no further operational sorties. No further service details traced. It is suggested that Diamant was in Malta for a spell during the war and, at some point in his RAF service, received injuries in an aircraft crash, which affected him for the rest of his life. He died in 1989.

APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41 SL 1.7.45 FL 18.11.45

FO

British

Diamant was born on November 23 1909 and spent time in Egypt in his youth. He was commissioned in the RAFVR on April 8 1940, in the Administrative and Special Duties Branch. He joined 600 Squadron at Northolt on June 1, as Intelligence Officer.

With the course completed on November 6 1939, Dewhurst joined the recently-reformed 234 Squadron at Leconfield. On July 7 1940 he damaged a Ju 88, on the 28th Dewhurst shared in the destruction of a Ju 88, shot down into the sea SE of Plymouth and on August 14 he damaged a Bf 109 and on the 15th he probably destroyed a Bf 109. On the 16th he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed in the Isle of Wight area. On this day, following an attack by another Bf 109 over Gosport, Dewhurst’s engine was set alight and he baled out, landing near Widley. His Spitfire, R 6967, crashed at Widley Farm, between Southwick and Widley. He was unhurt. On September 7 Dewhurst probably destroyed a Bf 109. He was appointed temporary ‘B’ Flight Commander on September 11 and probably relinquished this command when Flight Lieutenant J S Young arrived on 234 on September 18. Dewhurst shared in the probable destruction of a Bf 110 on September 29 S of Exmouth and he shared in destroying a Ju 88 on October 28 SE of the Lizard. He re-assumed command of ‘B’ Flight when Young was posted away on November 23 1940. Awarded the AFC (3.4.45), Dewhurst was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader.

41680

PO

54 and 603 Squadrons

Dexter was born in Durban, South Africa on June 5 1918. He joined the RAF on a short service commission in December 1938, beginning his ab initio course on the 28th. With flying training completed, Dexter joined 16 Squadron at Old Sarum on January 3 1940, to fly Lysanders on Army Co-operation duties. In April the squadron was posted to France, to join 50 Wing.

APO 2.9.39 PO 28.2.40 FO 28.2.41 FL 28.5.42

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WILLIAM GORDON DICKIE

MAXWELL PAUL DIGBY-WORSLEY

80541

649007

PO

Pilot British

601 Squadron

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

248 Squadron

Dickie, of Dundee, joined the RAFVR about January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742910) and did his pre-war training at 11 E&RFTS, Perth. Called up on September 1, he went to 10 FTS, Ternhill on December 9 1939 for No 17 Course.

Digby-Worsley, from Hornsey, Middlesex, enlisted in the RAF in June 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG and after completing his training, he joined 248 Squadron in July 1940. He flew his first operational sortie on August3, with Pilot Officer SR Gane as pilot and Pilot Officer M D Green as observer.

With training completed, he was commissioned and arrived at 6 OTU on May 27 1940. Dickie converted to Hurricanes, joining 601Squadron at Middle Wallop on June 8. On July 11 Dickie probably destroyed a He 111. He was reported ‘Missing’ on August 11, following an action over the Channel off Portland. Dickie was 24. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 8.

He was reported ‘Missing’ on August 19, when the Blenheim he was in failed to return from a reconnaissance of the South Norwegian coast. The other two crew members were Sergeant J H Round, pilot, and Sergeant W H Want, observer. Digby-Worsley was 18. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 13.

JOHN WILLIAM DITZEL 122553

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

25 Squadron

Born in London on March 26 1920, Ditzel joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (746913). He was called to full-time service at the outbreak of war and joined 29 Squadron at Debden in October 1939.

PO 27.5.40

JOHN HOLT DICKINSON 740861

Sgt

Pilot

British

253 Squadron

Ditzel was posted to 25 Squadron at North Weald in April 1940 and flew with the squadron until February 1941, when he went to 1417 Flight for a few weeks before being put on ferry duties. In April 1941 Ditzel was posted to 46 MU, Lossiemouth, where he took part in testing overhauled aircraft before their return to squadrons. In September 1941 Ditzel joined 125 Squadron at Fairwood Common. Initially equipped with Defiants, the squadron began to receive Beaufighters in February 1942. Commissioned in May 1942, Ditzel began the process of retraining as a Navigator Radar in June and was posted away from 125. He went to 6 AOS, Staverton in August for a course, moved on to 62 OTU, Cranfield in October, then to 51 OTU there in March 1943. In June Ditzel flew to Gibraltar on his way to North Africa. He joined 600 Squadron at Monte Corvino, Sicily in September 1943. On the night of January 29 1944, Ditzel picked up a Do 217 over the Anzio beaches. After a running fight, his Beaufighter was shot down by anti aircraft fire over Civitavecchia and he was captured. Ditzel was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1995.

Dickinson joined the RAFVR about November 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 27 1940. He converted to Hurricanes and was posted to 253 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on June 8. Dickinson was shot down on August 30 by Feldwebel Kock of II/JG 26 over Dungeness. He baled out but is believed to have been killed by a Bf 109 on the way down. His Hurricane, P 3213, may be the one which crashed at Cuckolds Corner, Plurenden Manor, near Woodchurch. Dickinson was 21. He is buried in St Mary’s churchyard, Egton-with-Newland, Lancashire.

GIOVANNI DIEU 81633

PO

Pilot

Belgian

236 Squadron PO 4.5.42

An instructor in the Belgian Air Force, Dieu left Belgium in May 1940 and was employed in ferrying French aircraft. When France collapsed, he flew to Bayonne and sailed in a Dutch cargo ship to England, arriving at Plymouth on June 23 1940.

FO 4.11.42

FL 4.5.44.

CHRISTOPHER ALEXANDER WILFRED DIXON 124628

Sgt

Pilot

British

601 Squadron

Dixon joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754162). He was called up on September 1, completed his training and probably went to 7 OTU, Hawarden in mid-August 1940.

Dieu was commissioned in the RAFVR on July 12 and on that day he arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down. After converting to Blenheims, he joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island on August 5. He was posted away on October 14 1940, to instruct Belgian and French pilots at No 1 Fighter Training Squadron of the Free French Air Force at RAF Odiham. Dieu went to the Belgian Flight of 609 Squadron at Gravesend on August 4 1941. He was awarded the AFC and released from the RAF after the war, as a Squadron Leader.

He converted to Hurricanes and joined 601 Squadron at Debden on September 4, making his first flight next day, a local one. He was still on 601 in November 1940 and may have been the Sergeant Dixon who was with 213 Squadron at Tangmere on November 5. Commissioned in April 1942, Dixon left the RAF in early 1944, as a Flying Officer. He died in 1977. PO 9.4.42 FO 9.10.42

PO 12.7.40

FREDERICK JOHN POWELL DIXON 742124

Sgt

Pilot

British

501 Squadron

IVOR BENISON DIFFORD 39865

FO

Pilot

South African

85 and 607 Squadrons

Dixon joined the RAFVR about October 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 26 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, Dixon went to Hendon on June 6, for onward posting to France, where he joined 501 Squadron.

Difford, of Johannesburg, joined the RAF on a short service commission in April 1937 and began his elementary flying training on May 10, as a pupil pilot. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on July 5 for a short disciplinary course. For intermediate and advanced training, Difford was posted on July 17 to 4 FTS, Abu Sueir, Egypt. With the course completed on March 6 1938, he went to a job at SHQ RAF Kai Tak, Hong Kong. Back in the UK Difford was based at the Air Ministry. He was posted from there to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 11 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 85 Squadron at Church Fenton on the 23rd, moving to 607 Squadron at Tangmere on October 2. He was killed on October 7 1940, when he crashed at Eartham Farm, Slindon, in Hurricane L 1728. Difford was 30 years old and is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Tangmere.

On June 18 the squadron left from Dinard and flew to St Helier, Jersey, from where they operated on the 19th, covering the evacuation of the BEF from Cherbourg. 501 re-assembled at Croydon on the 21st. On July 11 Dixon was shot down in an action over a convoy ten miles SE of Portland Bill, by Oberleutnant Franziket of III/JG 27. He baled out of Hurricane N 2485 and fell into the sea. An extensive search by the Weymouth lifeboat failed to find him. Dixon’s body was later recovered by the Germans and he is buried in Abbeville Communal Cemetery Extension.

APO 5.7.37 PO 10.5.38 FO 10.12.39

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GEORGE DIXON 59384

Sgt

Observer

NICHOLAS ROBERT DOBREE British

FIU

75018

Dixon, of Shrewsbury, was born on October 12 1912. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice (562081), in January 1928 and passed out in December 1930. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Observer. He completed his training and joined the Fighter Interception Unit, when it was formed at Tangmere in April 1940.

FO

Air Gunner

British

264 Squadron

Dobree was commissioned in the Administrative and Special Duties Branch of the RAF in October 1939. He was on the staff of BAFF in Paris, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant Intelligence Officer in the Spring of 1940. He remustered as a u/t Air Gunner and transferred to the General Duties Branch (Air Gunners) on July 29 1940 and was posted to No 1 AAS, Manby for training. With the course completed, he arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 25 for further training and conversion to Defiants. He was posted to 264 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on September 4 1940 and flew his first operational sortie on the 21st. Dobree was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Group Captain.

He was in a Blenheim, which failed to return from an operational patrol on the night of September 13 1940. Dixon and the other two men on board, Flight Lieutenant R G KerRamsay and Sergeant E L Byrne, baled out and were captured. The aircraft, Z 5721, crashed into the Channel off Calais. Dixon was held in Stalag Luft 6 at Heydekrug (PoW No 272). Freed in May 1945, Dixon was commissioned from Warrant Officer in June 1946. He retired from the RAF on June 5 1948.

PO 2.10.39 FO 6.2.40 FL 6.2.41 SL 14.2.42 WC 1.3.44

PO 26.6.46 FO 26.6.47

JOHN DODGSON DODD 84322

PO

Pilot

British

248 Squadron

JOHN ANTONY DIXON 41683

FO

Pilot

British

1 Squadron

A chartered accountant from East Horsley, Surrey, Dodd joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745504). He was called up on September 1, completed his training, was commissioned on August 24 1940 and sent to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth. From there he joined 248 Squadron at Sumburgh on September 29.

Dixon was born on March 23 1919. He joined the RAF on a short service commission in December 1938 and began his ab initio course on the 28th at 23 E&RFTS, Rochester. He moved to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on March 4, for a short induction course.

He was reported ‘Missing’ on December 13 1940. Detailed to fly to Wick for operations, Dodd collided with another Blenheim whilst they were formating. Both aircraft crashed into the sea and sank and Dodd and his crew of two, Pilot Officer A H Pettet, observer, and Sergeant A Hook, air gunner, were lost. The five men in the other Blenheim also died. Dodd was 27 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 8.

He went to 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 11 Course, which ran from March 20 to October 2 1939. With the course completed, Dixon joined 263 Squadron, then being reformed at Filton. On February 20 1940 the OC 263 Squadron reported that Dixon was unsuitable as a fighter pilot. He was posted to No 1 AAS, Manby on March 18 1940, as a staff pilot. On April 28 Dixon overshot in Gauntlet K 7879, when landing at Manby and collided with an instructional

PO 24.8.40

CHARLES WILLIAM DODGE 507141

Boulton Paul Overstrand. He was with No 1 Squadron at Northolt in July 1940 and possibly was one of the fourteen pilots who joined No 1 in France, to replace pilots who had returned to England on May 24. Dixon was posted away from No 1 on August 7 to 4 Ferry Pilot Pool. On October 2, on a delivery flight from 37 MU, Burtonwood, he had to make a forced-landing at Warrington, when the engine of his Spitfire, P 7438, failed soon after take-off. Dixon was dismissed by sentence of a General Court Martial on September 2 1941 but later rejoined the RAF. He became a Master Pilot on March 1 1948 and was awarded the AFC (6.9.49). He was commissioned again in March 1960 and retired on May 3 1973, as a Flight Lieutenant.

Radar Operator

British

600 Squadron

Dixon joined the RAFVR in June 1940, as an Aircrafthand (1127357). He volunteered for aircrew and made his first flight with 600 Squadron on June 28, on an RDF trial.

219 Squadron

ROBERT FRANCIS THOMAS DOE

He went on a short radar course at Yatesbury and then rejoined 600 Squadron at Manston on July 25 1940, as a radar operator. He made his first operational sortie on August 28, a patrol, with Flying Officer T N Hayes as pilot and Sergeant H S Imray as Air Gunner. Commissioned in November 1941, Dixon was with 125 Squadron in 1942 at Colerne and later Fairwood Common. In October he teamed up with Squadron Leader F D Hughes and they shared in the daylight destruction of a Ju 88 on November 4. They were posted overseas on January 13 1943, to 600 Squadron at Maison Blanche, Algeria. They destroyed two Ju 88s during the night of January 23/24 1943, claimed a Cant Z 1007 on February 13, a Ju 88 on April 25/26, a He 111 destroyed on July 12/13, a Ju 88 on the 20/21st, three Ju 88s on August 11/12 and a Ju 87 on the 17/18th. Dixon was awarded the DFC (13.4.43) and a Bar (28.9.43). On July 19 1944 Dixon joined 604 Squadron at Colerne, to fly again with Hughes, who had just taken command of the squadron. On August 6/7 they destroyed a Ju 88 and, finally, on January 13/14 1945 a Ju 188 near Rotterdam. Dixon was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Squadron Leader. He died in October 1998. PO 21.11.41

British

The squadron was re-equipped with Spitfires in April 1940 and 64’s gunners were posted away. Dodge and others went to 219 Squadron. Dodge served with the squadron during the Battle of Britain. With the advent of airborne radar and the Beaufighter replacing the Blenheim, Dodge was one of the gunners who retrained as Radar Operators. In the evening of March 13 1941 he was on patrol in a Beaufighter with Sergeant J A Clandillon. They shot down a He 111 that was raiding Southampton. It crashed at Smokehall Farm, Shipley, Sussex. On March 1 1942 Dodge was promoted to Warrant Officer. In 1942 he was an instructor at the night-fighter OTU at Cranfield. Dodge was released from the RAF in 1945. He died in 1982.

LAWRENCE DIXON AC

Air Gunner

Born about 1910, Dodge joined the RAF in 1927, as an Aircrafthand. At some time he remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and completed his training. At the outbreak of war he was with 64 Squadron, flying in Blenheims.

APO 4.3.39 FO 2.10.39 FO2.10.40 FO 31.3.60 FL 31.3.63

116698

Sgt

41908

PO

Pilot

British

234 and 238 Squadrons

Born on March 10 1920 at Reigate, Surrey, Doe started work as an office boy at the News of the World. In March 1938 he joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741616) and began training at 5 E&RFTS Hanworth, soloing on June 4. Doe applied for a short service commission, was successful and joined the RAF in January 1939. He began his elementary flying training at 15 E&RFTS, Redhill on March 20, as a pupil pilot. He moved on to 6 FTS, Little Rissington for No 12 Course, which ran from May 1 to November 6 1939. With the course completed, he joined 234 Squadron, then reforming at Leconfield. Doe was still with 234 at the start of the Battle of Britain. On August 15 1940 he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and shared another, on the 16th he destroyed a Bf 109 and a Do 18, on the 18th he shot down a Bf 109 and damaged another, on the 21st he shared a Ju 88 and on the 26th destroyed another Bf 109. On September 4 Doe claimed three Bf 109s destroyed, on the 5th shot down another,

FO 1.10.42 FL 21.11.43

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313 Squadrons, now based at Exeter. On May 3 1943, flying Spitfire EP461, he destroyed an Fw190 near Ile de Batz. On March 28 1944 he was awarded the DSO. Later, Dolezal was appointed as Senior Czechoslovak Liaison Officer for 19 Fighter Wing, at North Weald and this was followed by a short period with the Czechoslovak Inspectorate General in London. In August 1944 he went to the USA where he attended the Command and General Staff School at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. One of his projects whilst there was a feasibility study into the invasion of the Philippines. The invasion was eventually carried out utilising this study. Dolezal returned to London on December 23 1944 and was again assigned to the Inspectorate General. On March 3 1945 he was released from RAF service. He returned to Czechoslovakia on May 17 1945, to rejoin the Czech forces, on the first aircraft to arrive in Prague from England, following the end of the war in Europe. The aircraft was also carrying the members of the Czechoslovak Government in exile. Dolezal was killed in an accident on October 4 1945, when flying as a passenger in a Su204 aircraft which crashed near Bucovice in Moravia.

on the 6th destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged three Do 17s and on the 7th he destroyed a He 111. Doe was posted to 238 Squadron at Middle Wallop on September 29, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. He claimed a He 111 destroyed on the 30th, a Bf 109 on October 1 and a Ju 88 on the 7th. He was awarded the DFC (22.10.40) and a Bar (26.11.40). He was shot down on October 10 over Warmwell and baled out, wounded in the shoulder and leg, and after landing at Brownsea Island, he was admitted to Poole Hospital. His Hurricane, P 3984, crashed near Corfe Castle Viaduct. Doe rejoined 234 on December 21 1940. On January 3 1941 he was up at night when the oil in the cooler froze. Doe headed for Warmwell. At 6000 feet his engine stopped and he glided down to make a rapid landing on the snow-covered airfield. His harness broke and Doe was thrown forward, breaking his arm and smashing his face against the reflector sight. He went eventually to Park Prewitt Hospital and into the care of Sir Harold Gillies, a distinguished plastic surgeon from New Zealand. After twenty-two surgical operations Doe went to 66 Squadron at Perranporth on May 15 1941, as a Flight Commander, but moved to 130 Squadron at Portreath on August 18. With his tour completed, Doe was posted to 57 OTU, Hawarden on October 22 1941, as an instructor. On June 9 1943 he went to the Fighter Leaders’ School, Milfield and in July to 118 Squadron at Coltishall, as a supernumerary. From August to October 1943 Doe was with 613 Squadron, was then posted to Burma and in December 1943 was given the job of forming 10 (IAF) Squadron. He commanded the squadron throughout the Burma campaign and was awarded the Indian DSO (2.10.45), one of the only two men to be so honoured. After leaving 10 Squadron in April 1945 Doe went to the Army Staff College, Quetta and in August joined the planning staff at Delhi. He returned to the UK in September 1946. He held a number of staff appointments and commands before his retirement on April 1 1966, as a Wing Commander. Doe went into the garage business in the Tunbridge Wells area. He died on February 21 2010. APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40

PO 2.8.40 FO 27.12.40 FL ? SL 7.4.42 WC 1.4.43

MARIAN BOGUSLAW DOMAGALA P 1904

Sgt

Pilot

PO

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

238 Squadron

Domagala was born on March 23 1909 and was in the prewar PAF. He was in England in February 1940 and on the 20th he enlisted in the RAFVR (780671). He held the rank of Corporal when he arrived at No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum on July 5, for the 1st Polish Pilots’ Course, for testing and grading. He went on to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge and after converting to Hurricanes, Domagala joined 238 Squadron at Middle Wallop on August 5. On the 8th he destroyed a Bf 109 and probably destroyed a Bf 110and on the 11th destroyed another Bf 109. He was awarded the KW (23.12.40) and a Bar (1.2.41). He was made non-effective sick on September 14 and although he remained on the squadron he was still non-

FL 6.11.41 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.1.49 WC 1.1.56

FRANTISEK DOLEZAL 82593

Polish

310 and 19 Squadrons

Dolezal was born on September 19 1909 at Ceska Trebova.

effective in November. He was flying again in March 1941 and on the 20th he made a forced-landing at Wimborne, after he became lost when his wireless failed. On April 6 1941 Domagala was posted to 302 Squadron at Westhampnett. On April 29 Hurricanes of 302 encountered Bf 109s over the Channel coast. Domagala’s engine died over Dungeness at 27000 feet and he attempted to glide towards Biggin Hill, the nearest airfield. He stalled and crashed just before reaching the runway. He was unhurt. Domagala moved on September 15 to 317 Squadron at Exeter. With his tour completed, Domagala went to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on February 4 1942, as an instructor. He was sent to 2 FIS, Montrose for an instructor’s course and did further training courses at 10 FIS, Woodley and 25 EFTS, Hucknall. He was commissioned in June 1942. On March 12 1943 Domagala was appointed as an instructor at 25 EFTS. He was posted to 16 SFTS, Newton on December 18 1944 for a twin-engine conversion course, after which he was a staff pilot there. Posted away in November 1945, Domagala was released in December 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He was awarded a further two Bars to the KW (31.10.47). Domagala settled in Scotland. He died there on January 27 1991.

In 1933 he joined the Czechoslovak Army for military service and between 1934 and 1936 was at the Military Academy, Hranice. On graduation he went to the Military Aviation Academy, Prostejov where he undertook training as an aerial observer and pilot. In 1937 he graduated and was posted to the 36th Fighter Squadron of the 2nd Air Regiment at Olomouc. After Czechoslovakia was taken over by the Germans on March 15 1939, the Czech Air Force was disbanded and Dolezal was demobilised on the 17th. He escaped to Poland on June 20 1939 and, with other Czech airmen, sailed from Gdynia on board the Kastelholm bound for France. On October 10 1939 Dolezal was assigned to l’Armee de l’Air, at Chartres, for retraining to French equipment and on May 17 1940 was posted, as an operational pilot to Groupe de Chasse II/2. On May 21 he shared in the probable destruction of a Bf 110, on June 1 he destroyed a He 111, on the 8th shared a Hs 126 and on the 15th shared a Do 17. Following the capitulation of France, Dolezal and the other Czechoslovak airmen were released from service with l’Armee de l’Air. They flew to Perpignan, in Southern France, and then went by car to Port Vendres from where, on June 24 1940, they boarded the General Chanzy bound for Oran, Algeria. From there they went by train to Casablanca, Morocco. Here they boarded the Gib-el-Ders which took them to Gibraltar where they transferred to the Neuralia which took them to Liverpool, where they arrived on July 12 1940. Dolezal went first to the Czechoslovak transit camp at Cholmondeley prior to being commissioned in the RAFVR in early August 1940 at the RAF Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford. He joined 310 Squadron at Duxford on August 6 and converted to Hurricanes. Due to an excess of pilots on the Squadron he was ‘loaned’ to 19 Squadron, at Fowlmere on the 24th. He re-trained to the Squadron’s Spitfires and was one of the first Czechoslovak pilots to fly this type. On September 5, flying Spitfire L1018, he claimed a probable Bf 109, on the 7th, flying Spitfire K9851, destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged a He 111. On the 11th, flying Spitfire N3046, he probably destroyed a Bf 109 but, during this combat, was wounded in the leg and his aircraft severely damaged, in combat over London. On the 18th, flying Spitfire X4173, Dolezal claimed a Ju88 destroyed. On 29 October 1940 Dolezal returned to 310 Squadron at Duxford and was appointed as commander of ‘A’ Flight. He commanded the squadron from 7 April 1942 and achieved further combat success. He damaged a Fw190 on June 6 when flying Spitfire AD338 and claimed a probable Do217e over Dieppe on August 19 when flying Spitfire EP452. On the same day and in the same aircraft he damaged a Fw190e also over Dieppe. On August 28 1942, in Spitfire A495, he destroyed a Bf109e near Exmouth. He was awarded the DFC on September 1 1942. On April 1 1943 he was promoted to lead the Czech Wing, comprising 310, 312 and

PO 1.6.42 FO 1.12.42 FL 1.6.44

RALPH STIDSTON DON 81348

PO

Pilot

British

501 Squadron

Don, of Ferndown, Dorset, joined the RAFVR about June 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741645). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training, was commissioned and went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 26 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, Don was sent to Hendon on June 6 for onward posting to France and he joined 501 Squadron there. In mid-June the squadron prepared to evacuate France. Don was flown to Caen, then to Dinard and two days later to Jersey, from where he sailed in a coal boat, with Pilot Officer E G Parkin, to Weymouth, arriving there on the 17th. 501 re-assembled at Croydon on June 21. On July 31 the squadron was using Hawkinge as a forward operating base. Don was returning from there to 501’s base at Gravesend in the evening, when the engine of his Hurricane caught fire and he baled out. He was seriously injured and admitted to Canterbury Hospital. The

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Demons that were caught by a dense fog, which descended suddenly over a wide area of England on August 7. They were routed over Digby and then all pilots and air gunners were ordered to bale out. Donald joined 141 Squadron at Grangemouth on October 27 1939. On November 29 he was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant and appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander. On July 12 1940 the squadron moved south to West Malling. Donald was flying one of nine Defiants attacked by Bf 109s of III/JG 51 off Dover on the 19th. He was killed in the aircraft and his gunner, Pilot Officer A C Hamilton, baled out but was drowned in the sea. Their aircraft, L 7009, crashed at Elmsvale Road, Dover. Donald is buried in All Saints’ churchyard, Tilford, Surrey. He is remembered on a plaque at Dulwich College, unveiled on March 14 2002.

aircraft, P 3646, crashed and burned out on Lydden Marsh. He returned to operations on October 10. From November 26 to December 24 1940 Don was at CFS, Upavon, on an instructor’s course on Masters and Tutors. He did not return to operations until October 1944, when he was given command of 142 Squadron, on its reformation with Mosquito PR 16s for photographic-reconnaissance duties. Don was reported ‘Missing’ on January 22 1945. He was 25 and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 264. He was awarded the DFC (11.12.45) for his work with 142 Squadron. PO 26.5.40 FO 26.5.41 FL 26.5.42

ARTHUR GERALD DONAHUE 81624

PO

Pilot

American

64 Squadron

PO 18.12.37 FO 18.6.39

Born in St Charles, Minnesota on January 29 1913, Donahue was educated at the High School there. He learned to fly privately and had his private and commercial pilot’s licenses before he was 19. For some years he instructed trainee pilots, barnstormed and gave pleasure flights. In between times he worked on the family farm.

EDWARD MORTLOCK DONALDSON 32043

WC

Pilot

British

151 Squadron

The son of a judge, Donaldson was born in Negri Sembilan, Federated Malay States on February 22 1912. He went to England at the age of six and was educated at King’s School, Rochester, Christ’s Hospital and McGill University, Canada.

In 1938 Donahue flew to Laredo, Texas, to join a friend in starting a business to train pilots and do aerial taxi work. He worked in Texas in the winter and did similar work in Wisconsin in the summer. In Mid-June 1940 he heard that pilots were being enlisted in Canada for the RAF. Donahue went up, was accepted and ten days later sailed for the UK, arriving there on June 30. He signed forms at the Air Ministry for a direct-entry RAFVR commission and was fitted for a uniform. Seven days after landing, Donahue was at 5 OTU, Aston Down. He joined 64 Squadron at Kenley on August 3 1940. Two days later he landed at Hawkinge with serious damage following a combat with Bf 109s off the French coast. On the 12th Donahue was shot down during an engagement off the South Coast. He baled out, with injuries to the right leg and burns. His Spitfire, X 4018, crashed and burned out at Sellinge. After some time in hospital, he rejoined 64 on September 25. On the 29th he was posted to 71 Squadron, newly-reformed at Church Fenton from American volunteers. With no operations being flown, Donahue was posted away on October 23 at his own request and he rejoined 64. On November 11 he damaged a Bf 109 NE of North Foreland. In late February 1941 he was posted to 91 Squadron at Hawkinge. Donahue went home to America on leave in March and arrived back in London on April 17 and rejoined 91. On May 7 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another, on August 17 he shot down a Bf 109 and on September 26 he destroyed a Klemm trainer over France. In October 1941 Donahue was posted to 258 Squadron, then about to go overseas. The squadron sailed in HMS Athene for Gibraltar, where they spent five weary weeks before sailing again. They finally reached Takoradi on January 1 1942. The pilots were then flown to Port Sudan and there they embarked on the carrier HMS Indomitable. After sailing south for nearly three weeks, the pilots flew Hurricanes off on January 28 to Kemajoran, Java, moving on to Palembang, Sumatra after refuelling. In the afternoon of the same day they flew on to Seletar airfield, Singapore to face the Japanese. After a few days of heavy fighting and heavy losses the squadron withdrew to Palembang. Donahue remained in Singapore and flew with 232 Squadron. When the Japanese invaded Singapore Island, he just managed to escape in a Buffalo and landed at a jungle airfield 55 miles SW of Palembang and next morning he rejoined 258 Squadron. On February 16 1942 Donahue was badly wounded in the left leg whilst strafing boats carrying Japanese troops. He got back to Palembang and was flown out in a Hudson to the Dutch military hospital at Bandoeng, Java. He was evacuated in a hospital ship to India and eventually rejoined 258 in Ceylon in April 1942. Donahue was awarded the DFC (27.3.42). He returned to the UK and in August was back with 91 Squadron at Lympne. On an early morning weather reconnaissance over the French coast on September 11 1942, Donahue probably shot down a Ju 88 but his Spitfire was damaged by return fire. He radioed back that his engine was overheating and that he was ditching in the Channel. The weather conditions were severe and ASR launches could not find him. Donahue is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 65.

He joined the RAF on a short service commission on June 26 1931 and did his flying training at 2 FTS, Digby. On June 20 1932 Donaldson was posted to 3 Squadron at Upavon. He won the Brooke-Popham Air Firing Trophy in 1933 and 1934 and led the aerobatic displays at Hendon in 1935 and 1937 and at the International Rally at Zurich in 1937. Donaldson went to No 1 Squadron at Tangmere on July 2 1936, as a Flight Commander. He was granted a Permanent Commission on March 29 1938. In August he joined the staff at 7 FTS, Peterborough and on November 14 he took command of 151 Squadron at North Weald. In May 1940 151 took part in the fighting in France, using Vitry as an advanced landing ground. On the 17th Donaldson destroyed two Ju 87s, the next day a Bf 110 and on the 22nd a Ju 87 destroyed and probably a second. Over Dunkirk he shared a Ju 88 on May 29, probably destroyed a Ju 88 on June 1 and destroyed a Bf 110 on the 2nd and two Bf 109s on the 8th. He was awarded the DSO (31.5.40). On July 14 Donaldson claimed a Bf 109 destroyed. He was appointed Acting Wing Commander and posted from 151 on August 5 to be CFI at 5 FTS, Sealand. In 1941 he went to the USA, to organise gunnery schools and teach combat techniques. He was awarded the AFC (30.9.41). In 1944, after a period at the Empire Central Flying School, Donaldson was given command of RAF Colerne, the first permanent base for jet fighters in the UK. He later commanded RAF Milfield. Donaldson took command of the RAF High Speed Flight in early 1946 and on September 7 he gained the World’s Speed Record in a Meteor at 616 mph. He was awarded the Britannia Trophy and received a Bar to the AFC (12.6.47) and the US Legion of Merit (1948). He retired from the RAF on March 21 1961, as an Air Commodore. He was made a CBE (1.6.53) and a CB (1.1.60). After his retirement, he was Air Correspondent for the Daily Telegraph until 1979. Donaldson died on June 2 1992 in the Royal Naval Hospital, Haslar and is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Tangmere. PO 26.6.31 FO 26.6.33 FL 1.4.36 SL 1.12.38 WC 1.3.40 GC 1.1.44 AC 1.7.55

WILLIAM STANLEY DOSSETT 49697

P0 7.7.40

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

29 Squadron

Dossett was born on November 1 1919. He joined the RAF about December 1938, as an Aircrafthand (629792). He remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG and was with 29 Squadron by May 1 1940, as an Aircraftsman. He was promoted to Sergeant in June.

IAN DAVID GRAHAME DONALD 33306

FO

Pilot

British

141 Squadron

On July 26 1940 Dossett was posted to 105 Squadron at Watton, a Blenheim day-bomber unit. In 1942 he was with 107 Squadron, operating in Bostons from Great Massingham, Norfolk. He was awarded the DFM (22.9.42), as a Flight Sergeant. Commissioned in August 1942, Dossett retired from the RAF on May 22 1954, as a Flight Lieutenant. He later went to live in Australia.

A son of Air Marshal Sir D G Donald, Donald was born on September 3 1917. He was at Dulwich College from 1931 to 1935 and entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1936, as an Honorary King’s Cadet. After graduation, Donald joined 64 Squadron at Church Fenton on December 18 1937. During the 1938 Air Exercises, he was pilot of one of a formation of 64 Squadron Hawker

PO 10.8.42 FO 10.2.43 FL 10.8.44 FL 10.2.46

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NEVILLE ANTHONY RICHARD DOUGHTY

WILLIAM ANDERSON DOUGLAS

72477 FO

90896

Pilot

British

247 Squadron

PO

Pilot

British

610 Squadron

Doughty was born in Raynes Park, London on April 5 1919. He lived in Bournemouth until 1930, when he was sent to board at Douai School at Woolhampton, Berkshire. He left in 1933 and went to Caterham School, Surrey until 1936, when he gained a place at University College, London, where he read Engineering.

Born in Edinburgh in 1921, Douglas joined 603 Squadron, AAF on April 23 1939 and was commissioned in June. He had done some flying training before being called up on August 24 1939.

He joined the University Air Squadron in early 1937 and received flying instruction at Northolt. After leaving the University later in 1937, with an Intermediate BSc in Engineering, Doughty went to work for British Thomson Houston, Rugby. He continued training with the RAFVR and was commissioned in September 1938. He applied for an RAF short service commission, was provisionally accepted and carried out his elementary flying training at 7 E&RFTS, Desford between December 28 1938 and March 4 1939. He relinquished his RAFVR commission and went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge for a two-week induction course. Doughty was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose on March 20 1939, was awarded his flying badge on June 24 and on completion of the course on September 30 he was posted to 152 Squadron at Acklington. He joined it on October 3, to fly Harts and Gladiators. On November 24 1939 Doughty baled out of Gladiator N 5640 over Denton Burn, Northumberland, when his engine stalled. Next day Blue Section of ‘B’ Flight of 152, was detached to Sumburgh for fighter defence of the Shetlands. It was designated Fighter Flight Shetlands in December 1939, part of 18 Group, Coastal Command. Doughty joined the Flight from 152 on January 5 1940. One week later the Flight ceased to be attached to 152 Squadron and was redesignated Fighter Flight RAF Sumburgh. Before the Flight was posted down to Roborough, Devon in July 1940, it had carried out convoy patrols, AA Co-operation and RDF flights and interceptions. These latter had resulted in two enemy aircraft claimed as destroyed, two more probably destroyed and two others damaged. The Gladiators flew south on July 21, stopping overnight at Turnhouse. At Roborough the Flight was brought to full squadron strength and renumbered 247 Squadron on August 1 1940, as part of 10 Group. Doughty flew operational patrols on October 28 and 29, when twelve JU 88s of 1/LG raided Portsmouth. In December 1940 247 began to convert to Hurricanes and on February 9 1941 he was posted to 601 Squadron at Northolt. In April Doughty went to Hendon for a special duty. He did 130 hours practicing takeoffs, getting airborne before reaching a white line across the runway one hundred yards away. His Hurricane was fitted with two 45 gallon long-range tanks and all take-offs were made with 15 degrees of flap. Doughty was eventually told that he and twenty-three other pilots had been selected to deliver Hurricanes to Malta, flying off the aircraft carrier, HMS Ark Royal. On April 27 1941 they flew off the carrier to Malta, landing at Takali airfield, where the Hurricanes were attached to 261 Squadron, which was disbanded in May. Doughty was posted from Malta on July 6 1941 to join 127 Squadron at Tahoune Guemac, Syria, to fly Hurricanes on defensive patrols. On July 12 127 was absorbed into 261 Squadron, which was then reforming at Habbaniya. Doughty was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on August 8 1941 and appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on the 17th. 261 took part in the occupation of Iran and flew standing patrols over the oil ports of Abadan and Khorramshar. Doughty was posted away on January 30 1942 to Air HQ Libya, as a flying instructor. He returned to operations on February 24 1942, joining 94 Squadron in the Western Desert, flying Kittyhawks from Gambut. On April 21 1942 Doughty went to 71 OTU at Gordon’s Tree, Sudan, as a test pilot, and in September he moved to108-109 MU on similar duties. He was appointed Staff Officer (Operational Training) to the AOC 209 Group on March 22 1943. He moved to 212 Group on July 6 on staff duties, as a Squadron Leader, remaining there until March 1944. He went to 336 (Hellenic) Squadron at Mersa Matruh on May 17, in an advisory capacity. Doughty returned to the UK on November 10 1944 and was posted to the Air Ministry to serve in the Mechanical Transport and Marine Craft section of the Directorate of Organisation. He was released from the RAF in September 1946 and worked with the Foreign Office in Germany until December 19 1947, when he rejoined the RAF and was appointed Adjutant at RAF Guterslöh, as a Squadron Leader. He held a series of appointments and commands at home and overseas until his retirement on January 6 1958, with the rank of Squadron Leader. He became owner of the Hayfield Hotel, Ormskirk, Lancashire and later twenty years as Managing Director of Berkeley Wine Cellar Ltd. Doughty and his second wife went to live in Jersey, where he ran the Old Court House Hotel at Gorey. They retired briefly to Dinan in Brittany and finally settled in Poole, Dorset after he became ill in 2002. He died on November 12 2002 and was cremated at Poole Crematorium. In accordance with Doughty’s wishes, his ashes were scattered in the New Forest.

Douglas was posted to 7 FTS, Peterborough on October 7 and after completing his training, he rejoined 603 Squadron at Montrose on March 17 1940. He was posted away to 3 BGS, Aldergrove as a staff pilot, on May 7, moved to 8 BGS, Evanton on July 3 and on September 5 he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden. He converted to Spitfires and was posted to 610 Squadron at Acklington on September 16. Douglas was posted back to 603 Squadron, then at Drem, on February 27 1941. He damaged a Bf 109 on June 14, destroyed another on the 21st and was wounded on the 23rd by cannon shell splinters, on a patrol near Calais. He was off operations until November 1941 and became a Guinea Pig, after being in the Queen Victoria Cottage Hospital, East Grinstead. In April 1942 603 was posted overseas and pilots and aircraft were embarked on the USS Wasp on the 12th. They flew off to Ta Kali, Malta on the 20th. Douglas destroyed a Ju 88 on the 25th, a Bf 109 on got a probable Ju 87, shared another and damaged two more on the 10th, destroyed a Bf 109 May 9, he on the 11th, damaged a Mc 202 on July 6 and damaged a Ju 88 on the 13th. Douglas took command of the squadron on July 20 1942. It was disbanded on August 3 and he was given command of a new unit, reformed as 229 Squadron. With his tour completed, he flew back to the UK on September 23 and on October 2 was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as an instructor. Douglas was awarded the DFC (4.12.42). He was attached to 453 (RAAF) Squadron at Hornchurch on May 7 1943 and got a probable Ju 87 on the 10th. He went as an instuctor to the Fighter Command School of Tactics at Charmy Down on July 7. On August 18 he was given command of 611 Squadron at Kenley. On June 10 1944 he destroyed a Ju 88 and four days later a Bf 109.He destroyed a Ju 88 in September and received a Bar to the DFC (26.9.44). After a spell at 57 OTU, Eshott, Douglas was appointed Wing Commander Flying at Coltishall in April 1945. Douglas was released on December 17 1945, as a Wing Commander.

PO (RAFVR) 13.9.38 SL 1.8.47

APO 4.3.39

PO 30.9.39

FO 30.9.40

FL 30.9.41

APO (AAF) 11.6.39 APO 24.8.39 PO 1.12.39 FO 1.12.40 FL 1.12.41 SL 3.7.45

MICHAEL DUKE DOULTON 90235

FO

Pilot

British

601 Squadron

Reputed to be the tallest pilot in the RAF in his day, Doulton, a mechanical engineer, joined 604 Squadron, AAF in September 1931. He went on to the Reserve in 1936 and he was recalled on August 24 1939. Doulton was posted from 604 Squadron to 601 on June 11 1940. On July 11he shared a Do 17 and on the 20th he shared a He 59 and damaged a Do 17. On August 13, on an early patrol, Doulton shared in the destruction of a Ju 88. In a later combat he damaged a Bf 110. His Hurricane, P 3884, was damaged in combat over Portland and he returned to Tangmere, unhurt. On the 15th he shared a Ju 88 and next day he claimed a Ju 87 destroyed and two others damaged. On August 31 1940 Doulton was shot down in action over the Thames Estuary and reported ‘Missing’. He was 31 years and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 5. However, an aircraft excavated near Wennington Church, near Romford on April 27 1984 proved to be R 4215 and Doulton’s remains were still in the cockpit. He was cremated in a private ceremony in June 1984 at Hastings and his ashes were interred in Salehurst churchyard, East Sussex. PO (AAF) 29.9.31 FO (AAF) 29.3.33 FO (AAFRO) 29.9.36

FO 24.8.39

BASIL DOUTHWAITE 44928

PO

Pilot

British

72 Squadron

Douthwaite was born on April 12 1914 at Stocksfield, east of Hexham, Northumberland. He joined the RAF, as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot (580259), in June 1936. He began his elementary flying training on June 29. Having proved his aptitude, he was formally enlisted in the RAF on August 24.

SL 1.7.45

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He moved to 11 EFTS, Perth on April 29 1940, went on to 15 FTS, Brize Norton on June 15 and on September 21 he arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden, where he converted to Spitfires. Down joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield on October 6. He moved to 616 Squadron, Kirton-in-Lindsey on the 13th and flew two operational sorties before the end of the month, on the 20th and 26th. He was posted to 611 Squadron on December 13 and then to 91 Squadron at Hawkinge on February 20 1941. Whilst with 91, Down damaged two German aircraft. He was posted to 52 OTU, Aston Down on November 15 1941 and was sent to CFS, Upavon in January 1942 for an instructors’ course, after which he continued to instruct at 52 OTU until August 1, when he rejoined 91 Squadron. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in September 1942, Down joined 1696 Flight, AFDU at Bourn in August 1943. He went to HQ ADGB, Kenley in May 1944 and was later with the Communications Squadron at Northolt. He was posted to the Indian Air Force at Karachi in February 1945, later returning to the UK, where he was demobilised at RAF, Rugeley on November 30 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. Back in civilian life, Down returned to the family business of importing fruit and vegetables.

With training completed, he qualified as a Sergeant-Pilot. He was with 72 Squadron at Leconfield on October 15 1939 and was still with it at the start of the Battle of Britain. On September 1 1940 Douthwaite destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 2nd he probably destroyed a Do 17 and damaged two Bf 110s over the Dungeness/Herne Bay area. He was wounded on the 11th and returned to Croydon following an action over Gravesend. His Spitfire, R 6710, was badly damaged. Commissioned in September, Douthwaite probably destroyed a Do 17 on the 27th and shared in destroying a He 111 on November 9. He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. He went to live in Canada and died in Cambridge, Ontario, on May 9 1996. PO 17.9.40 FO 21.8.41 FL 21.8.42

GEORGES LOUIS JOSEPH DOUTREPONT 82157

PO

Pilot

Belgian

229 Squadron

After leaving Belgium in May 1940, Doutrepont went to France. On June 22 the French signed an Armistice with the Germans and the Belgians were told to stay put. With other pilots, Doutrepont reached Port Vendres, where, with the help of a British destroyer and the support of the Belgian Embassy in London, they caught a passing convoy and boarded the SS Apapa on the 24th.

PO 18.9.42 FO 18.3.43 FL 18.9.44

PETER DERRICK MacLEOD DOWN 39934

After reaching Liverpool on July 7, Doutrepont was commissioned in the RAFVR on the 19th and posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 24th. He converted to Hurricanes and joined 229 Squadron at Wittering on August 4. He flew his first sortie on the 11th. Doutrepont destroyed a Do 17, shared a He 111 and damaged a Bf 110 on September 11. On the 15th he was shot down and killed by German fighters over the Sevenoaks area. His Hurricane, N 2537, crashed on Staplehurst Station. A Southern Railway emplpyee, Charles Ashdown was also killed.Doutrepont was 27. His remains were exhumed on October 20 1949 and re-interred in the Pelouse d’Honneur Cemetery of Brussels at Evere. He posthumously received Belgian awards Doutrepont and Ashdown are remembered on a plaque at Staplehurst Station, unveiled on September 15 2003, the result of much effort by Ted Sergison, a resident of Staplehurst and a member of the Battle of Britain Historical Society.

FO

Pilot

British

56 Squadron

Down joined the RAF on a short service commission in May 1937. He began his elementary flying training on the 18th. He was posted to 9 FTS, Hullavington on July 17 and joined 56 Squadron at North Weald on February 19 1938. He was in the squadron’s aerobatic team before the war. On May 16 1940 Down went with ‘B’ Flight to Vitry-enArtois to support the squadrons in France. He destroyed a He 111 E of Cambrai on the 17th and damaged another. The flight was withdrawn to England after four days. On August 18 Down claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and a Bf 109 on the 28th. He was posted away from 56 on September 20, to instruct at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. Down went to the Middle East in December 1941 and he commanded 112 Squadron at Gambut in April/May 1942. He returned to the UK in mid1943, was later at 2 FIS, Montrose and became CFI at 5 ATS, Ternhill in November 1943. He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Squadron Leader.

PO 19.7.40

DEREK HUGH TREMENHEERE DOWDING 33422

FO

Pilot

British

74 Squadron

APO 12.7.37 PO 18.5.38 FO 18.8.40 FL 18.8.4

Dowding was born on January 9 1919, the son of Brigadier General H C T Dowding, later Air Chief Marshal Lord Dowding. He was educated at Winchester College and entered RAF College, Cranwell, as a Flight Cadet in September 1937. On graduation on July 29 1939, Dowding was granted a Permanent Commission. He joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 14 1939.

T DRABY No unknown

AC 1

Radar Operator

British

25 Squadron

Draby served as a radar operator with 25 Squadron during the Battle of Britain. He flew two operational sorties only and there is no further mention of him in the 25 Squadron ORB.

The squadron flew patrols over France from May 20 1940 and later covered the evacuation from Dunkirk. On May 24 Dowding probably destroyed a Do 17 and a Ju 88 and on the 27th destroyed a Do 17, after chasing it for 20 miles into France before being forced to break off by intense anti-aircraft fire. On July 6 1940 Dowding damaged a He 111 and two days later he shared in the destruction of another. He was posted away to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 6, to be an instructor. He did not take up the post until October 10. He was still instructing in 1941 but became a Flight Commander with 135 Squadron later in the year. He served as a test pilot in the Middle East from 1942 to 1945 and held a number of appointments and commands before retiring on November 17 1956, as a Wing Commander. Dowding died on November 22 1992.

On October 1 1940, in the early hours, he flew with Pilot Officer E W J Monk as pilot and Pilot Officer A T Sword-Daniels as air gunner. In the evening of October 26 he flew with Flying Officer H S Lusk as pilot and Sergeant A Bennison as Air Gunner. No further service details traced.

BILLY DRAKE 39095

FL

Pilot

British

No 1 and 213 Squadrons and 421 Flight Drake was born in London on December 20 1917 and he was educated in Switzerland. He joined the RAF on a short service commission in July 1936 and he began his ab initio course on July 13.

PO 29.7.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.10.46 WC 1.7.51 Drake was posted to 6 FTS, Netheravon on September 19 and with training completed, he joined No 1 Squadron at Tangmere on May 22 1937. He went to France with the squadron in September 1939. On April 20 1940 he destroyed a Bf 109 and possibly another, on May 10 he destroyed a He 111 and on May 13 he shot down a Do 17 and probably another but he was then jumped by Bf 110s and shot down. He baled out, wounded, and was taken to a French

JOHN KNIGHT DOWN 133043

Sgt

Pilot

British

64 and 616 Squadrons

Down was born on May 26 1917 at Failand, near Bristol. He joined the RAFVR on July 5 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754572) and began his flying at 39 E&RFTS, WestonSuper-Mare. Called up on September 1, he was posted to 5 ITW, Hastings on November 29.

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BRYAN VINCENT DRAPER

hospital and later flown back to an RAF hospital in England. Drake arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 20 1940 for flying instructor duties. He flew a patrol with No 1 Squadron on August 15 and was posted to 213 Squadron at Tangmere on October 2. He was appointed OC ‘A’ Flight on the 7th. His last flight with the squadron was on the 21st and he probably joined 421 Flight at Hawkinge on the 23rd. On November 20 he damaged a Do 17 near Calais. On December 7 and 27 Drake shared in the probable destruction of two Do 17s and on January 7 1941 he damaged two Ju 88s. He was awarded the DFC (7.1.41). 421 Flight was redesignated 91 Squadron on January 11 and Drake was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on the 20th. He was posted to 53 OTU, Heston in February, as an instructor. He went overseas in early October, to form and command 128 Squadron at Hastings in West Africa. On December 13 Drake shot down a Vichy French M-167F near Freetown. Drake went to Air HQ Middle East in April 1942 and was given command of 112 Squadron at Gambut on May 24. He claimed a probable Bf 109 on June 6. In ground attacks on June 12, 14 and 17 he claimed four Bf 109s destroyed and another damaged. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on July 2, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 8th, damaged a Ju 88 on the ground on the 19th, destroyed a Bf 109 in the air and a Bf 109 and a Bf 110 on the ground on the 24th, two Ju 87s on September 1 and a Bf 109 destroyed and one damaged on the 13th. Drake shared a Ju 87 and probably destroyed another on October 1 1942, got a probable Bf 109 on the 22nd, a Mc 202 on the 27th, a He 111 and a Bf 109 destroyed on the ground and another damaged and a Ju 87 destroyed on the 31st. He destroyed two Ju 52s and a Bf 109 on the ground on November 2, destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another on the 5th, destroyed two Bf 109s on the ground and damaged another on the 11th, destroyed a He 111 and damaged a Bf 109 on the 15th, destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged another on the 19th, destroyed a Mc 202 and a Bf 109 on December 11 and he finally shared a Bf 109 on the 13th. Drake was awarded a Bar to the DFC (28.7.42) and the DSO (4.12.42). In January 1943 he was promoted to Wing Commander and posted to HQ RAF Cairo. He took command of the Krendi Spitfire Wing in Malta in June 1943 and before returning to the UK he was credited with another six enemy aircraft destroyed. He received the DFC (US) (22.10.43). Drake was appointed Wing Leader 20 Wing, Typhoons, in late November 1943 and in May 1944 he was sent to America on special duties. Back in the UK, he was made Deputy Station Commander at Biggin Hill and later went to HQ SHAEF, to serve in the Operations Room. He took part in the first Battle of Britain flypast in September 1945. Drake retired from the RAF on July 1 1963, as a Wing Commander, retaining the rank of Group Captain. He pursued various business interests and died on August 28 2011.

76309

PO

Pilot

British

74 Squadron

Draper, from Barry, South Wales, was educated at Whitgift School, Croydon. He joined the RAFVR about April 1938 as an Airman u/t Pilot (741507). Called up on September 1 1939, he was commissioned in December and he arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on the 28th. After converting to Spitfires, he was posted to No 2 Ferry Pilot Pool on January 25 1940. He moved to 74 Squadron on February 12. Draper shared a Do 17 on May 25, damaged a Do 17 and a Bf 109 on July 10, destroyed a Ju 88 on September 14 and destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another on October 17. The confirmed Bf 109 made a belly-landing at Manston. The pilot was captured, unhurt. On the 20th Draper’s Spitfire, P 7355, was severely damaged in a combat over South London, during which he claimed the probable destruction of a Bf 109. Draper made a crash-landing with a seized engine. He claimed three Ju 87s destroyed and a Bf 109 damaged on November 14 and a Bf 109 destroyed next day. Draper was awarded the DFC (24.12.40) and posted away to CFS, Upavon on December 30 1940 for an instructor’s course. Draper was killed on February 28 1945, as a Squadron Leader with 45 Squadron. His Mosquito, HR 457, was seen to break up in the air during a shallow glide bomb run 40 miles south east of Mandalay. Warrant Officer P R James was also killed. Drapere was 28 and is buried in Taukkyan War Cemetery, Rangoon. He is remembered on a memorial plaque at Whitgift School, unveiled on November 10 2006. PO 10.12.39 FO 10.12.40 FL 10.3.42

GILBERT GRAHAM FAIRLEY DRAPER 42742

PO

Pilot

British

610 and 41 Squadrons

Born in December 1920, Draper was at Uppingham School from 1934 to 1937. He joined the RAF on a short service commission in August 1939 and began his elementary flying at 19 E&RFTS, Gatwick on August 8 and finished it at 18 E&RFTS, Fair Oaks.

APO 7.9.36 PO 13.7.37 FO 13.4.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41 SL 1.9.45 WC 1.1.53 On October 23 1939 Draper was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney for No 30 Course, which ran until April 27 1940. Draper then went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum and on May 28 he joined 2 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Bekesbourne. He was detached from the squadron back to Old Sarum for an Artillery Reconnaissance Course on July 14 1940. Draper volunteered for Fighter Command in August and was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 22nd. He converted to Spitfires and joined 610 Squadron at Acklington on September 3 and moved to 41 Squadron at Hornchurch on the 29th. During a combat over Ashford on October 30, Draper was shot down in Spitfire P 7282. He crashed at New Barn Farm, Postling, slightly injured, and went to Willesborough Hospital. On August 7 1941 Draper was shot down over Fruge, near Lille, and captured. At some time he was held in Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan and Belaria (PoW No 3669). Freed in early May 1945, he went on to the RAFO on September 1 1945. Draper died in 1997.

GEORGE JAMES DRAKE 42398

PO

Pilot

South African

607 Squadron

Drake was born in Kroonstad, Orange Free State on July 27 1920, the son of a stationmaster. He matriculated at Paarl Boys’ High School in 1938 and tried to enlist in the SAAF but was unsuccessful. He went to England and was given an RAF short service commission in June 1939 and began his ab initio course on June 12. With his training completed, Drake arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on March 23 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 263 Squadron at Filton on April 21 1940. On the 25th he left with a 263 draft for Edinburgh. Later that day they embarked on the SS Ulster Monarch in the Firth of Forth. The ship sailed for Norway but after two days at sea the draft was landed at Scapa Flow and they were accommodated in huts. On May 1 they again embarked, this time on the SS Orion, for an unknown destination. Two days later they had been returned to shore in a lighter and then sent to RAF Turnhouse, to await further posting instructions. On May 19 the draft left and embarked again on the Ulster Monarch, then anchored at Greenock with other ships. On the 26th the 263 draft disembarked and returned to Turnhouse. On June 5 Drake was attached to RAF Acklington, for firing range duties. The attachment ceased on June 13 and he was posted to 607 Squadron at Usworth. The squadron moved south to Tangmere on September 1 and Drake was shot down in combat over the Mayfield area on the 9th and reported ‘Missing’. His Hurricane, P 2728, crashed at Bockingfold Farm, Goudhurst. Drake is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 8.When the aircraft at Bockingfold Farm was excavated on May 21 1972, Drake’s remains were still in the cockpit. He was buried with full military honours at Brookwood Military Cemetery on November 22 1972.

APO 9.10.39 PO 28.4.40 FO 28.4.41 FL 28.4.42

ROY ALFRED DRAPPER 130467

Sgt

Pilot

British

232 Squadron

Drapper joined the RAFVR in July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754822). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 1 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 232 Squadron at Castletown on August 8. He was involved in an accident with a loaded pistol in the crew-room on September 5 and was admitted to Gilbert Barn Hospital, Lerwick with a bullet wound in the left foot. Drapper was with 289 Squadron, an AACU, when it was formed at Kirknewton on November 20 1941. He was posted from there to CFS, Upavon on December 14, as a Flight Sergeant. Commissioned from Warrant Officer on July 23 1942, Drapper joined 4 Squadron at Odiham, a photographic-reconnaissance unit, in June 1944. He was killed on August 9

APO 5.8.39 PO 24.3.40

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BOLESLAW DROBINSKI

1944, when Spitfire PR XI PL 831 crashed after taking off from Odiham, on a PR sortie to Evreux. Drapper was 23. He was cremated at St John’s Crematorium, Woking.

76731

PO

Pilot

ALLAN SYDNEY DREDGE Sgt

Pilot

British

253 Squadron

Dredge joined the RAFVR about July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741870), and did his pre-war training at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty. Called up on September 1 1939, he went to 3 FTS, South Cerney for No 31 Course, which ran from November 20 1939 to May 25 1940.

In mid-September Drobinski was ordered to go to Romania and he was interned there. He escaped, went to the Polish consulate in Bucharest and was given money and papers to enable him to reach France, via Yugoslavia and Italy. Upon reaching France, he went to Cherbourg and then Southampton, arriving in January 1940. He was commissioned in the RAFVR on the 27th and was posted to RAF Eastchurch for an induction course and tuition in English. He moved to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool on June 1 1940. Drobinski went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum on July 22 on the 3rd Polish Pilots’ Course, for testing and grading. He moved to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 29th and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 22. The squadron moved north to Turnhouse on the 28th of the month. Drobinski was posted to 303 Squadron at Northolt on March 2 1941. On a sweep on May 15 he damaged a Ju 52 on the ground, between June 18 and July 3 he claimed six Bf 109s destroyed, on July 6 shared a probable Bf 109 and on October 24 he destroyed a Bf 109. Drobinski was awarded the KW and Bar (15.7.41), the VM (5th Class) (10.9.41) and the DFC (30.10.41). His final victory was a Bf 109 on March 13 1942. Five days later he was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as an instructor. He rejoined 303 Squadron on August 9 1942, was awarded a second Bar to the KW (20.8.42) and returned to 58 OTU on April 9 1943. Drobinski was posted to 317 Squadron at Northolt on October 18 1943, as a Flight Commander. He was appointed ADC to the Polish Minister of Defence on April 3 1944. He was given command of 303 Squadron at Coltishall on September 26 1944. He was awarded a third Bar to the KW (5.1.46) and posted away from the squadron on February 1 1946 to 61 OTU at Keevil. Drobinski went to HQ 11 Group on March 20 1946, as Polish Liaison Officer. He was released in 1948, as a Squadron Leader, and settled in England. He died on July 26 1995.

He completed his training and it is possible that he joined 253 Squadron direct from FTS, there being no trace of him at an OTU. In a combat S of Biggin Hill on August 30, he fired at a Bf 109, which then collided with another and both went down. After capture, the two German pilots would not speak to each other.On September 4 Dredge claimed a Bf 110 destroyed, on the 14th a Bf 109, which exploded over Beacon Hill, Stone and on the 15th he probably destroyed a Do 17 and damaged another. On November 5 Dredge damaged a Bf 109 and on the 9th he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 N of Beachy Head. Commissioned in March 1941, Dredge went to Malta in April, flying off HMS Ark Royal on the 27th and joining 261 Squadron. He was shot down in flames on May 6 and made a crash-landing on Ta Kali airfield, suffering severe burns. He was posted back to the UK in mid-July and was treated at Queen Victoria Cottage Hospital, East Grinstead, becoming one of Archie McIndoe’s Guinea Pigs. In 1943 Dredge served with 183 Squadron and was awarded the DFC (27.7.43). He took command of 3 Squadron at Manston in October 1943 and led it until August 1944. During this time he destroyed five V 1 flying bombs over South-east England. He was awarded the DSO (5.12.44). Dredge was killed on May 18 1945 flying in Meteor III EE 238 of 1335 CU, which struck the ground while demonsrating a roll, at low level and high speed, at Farnborough. He was a Wing Commander, aged 27, and is buried at Coventry (St Paul’s) Cemetery. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde. PO 12.3.41 FO 12.3.42 FL 12.3.43

NIGEL GEORGE DREVER 42339

PO

Pilot

British

PO 27.1.40

610 Squadron

JOHN FRASER DRUMMOND

Drever joined the RAF on a short service commission in May 1939 and he began his ab initio course on June 12, as a pupil pilot.

40810

PETER EDWARD DREW Pilot

British

Pilot

British

46 and 92 Squadrons

After completing his intermediate and advanced training, Drummond joined 46 Squadron at Digby on January 14 1939. In November he and other pilots were presented to the King for their part in an action over a convoy in the North Sea on October 21. Eight or nine He 115s were seen in the vicinity of the convoy and three were shot down and another was damaged, causing it to land on the sea. He was with the squadron when it went to Norway in late May 1940. Drummond flew a Hurricane off the carrier HMS Glorious on the 26th. On the 29th he destroyed a He 111, on June 2 a Ju 87 and on June 7 he destroyed two He 111s and damaged two more. He did not fly on to the Glorious when the squadron was withdrawn and thus escaped the fate of most of 46’s pilots, who were lost when the carrier was sunk. He was evacuated by sea by the Royal Navy on June 8. For service in Norway, Drummond was awarded the DFC (26.7.40). He rejoined 46 Squadron when it was reformed at Digby on June 15. Drummond was posted to 92 Squadron at Pembrey on September 5. On the 11th he got a probable Bf 109, on the 23rd claimed a Bf 109 destroyed, on the 24th got a probable Bf 109 and damaged a Ju 88 and a Bf 109, on the 27th he destroyed a Ju 88 and shared a Bf 110, on the 30th got another probable Bf 109 and on October 5 he destroyed a Bf 109 and a Hs 126. During an attack on a Do 17 over Tangmere on October 10, Drummond collided with Pilot Officer D G Williams of 92. He baled out, wounded in an arm and a leg, but was too low for his parachute to open and he died shortly after landing in the arms of a priest who

APO 5.8.39 PO 24.3.40 FO 24.3.41 FL 24.3.42

SL

FO

Drummond, of Blundellsands, Liverpool, was born on October 19 1918. His father has served in the King’s Regiment (Liverpool) in the Great War. J F Drummond was educated at Deythur Grammar School, Llansantffraid, north Wales and Wellington School, Somerset, where he was a member of the OTC. He later worked for Vincent Murphy & Co, timber merchant, the same firm that employed his father. He joined the RAF on a short service commission in early April 1938 and began his ab initio flying training on the 4th, as a pupil pilot.

He completed his training and joined 98 Squadron, a Fairey Battle light bomber unit. Drever was posted to 4 Ferry Pilot Pool on July 22 1940 and then to 7 OTU on September 3. After converting to Spitfires, Drever joined 610 Squadron at Acklington on September 22. He was still serving with 610 when he was shot down over the Channel on March 15 1941, while taking part in Circus 6. He was captured by the Germans and at some time was held in Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan (PoW No 575). Drever was released from the RAF in 1946, with the rank of Flight Lieutenant.

26199

65 Squadron

Drobinski was born at Ostrog on October 23 1918 and educated at Dubno High School. He joined the PAF on January 1 1938 and finished training on August 31 1939. Next day Drobinski and other pilots went to South-east Poland, expecting to pick up Hurricanes that were being sent from the UK to Romania. This did not eventuate.

PO 23.7.42 FO 23.1.43

63785

Polish

236 Squadron

The son of Air Commodore B C H Drew, Drew was born on July 16 1910 and was at Marlborough College from 1924 to 1929. He entered RAF College, Cranwell, as a Flight Cadet, in September 1929 and graduated with a Permanent Commission on July 25 1931. He joined No 1 Squadron at Tangmere. Drew was posted to the staff at SHQ Heliopolis on February 28 1933, returned to the UK in June 1935 and went on to 6 FTS, Netheravon on March 30 1936, as an instructor. He was posted to the staff of CFS, Upavon on March 24 1937 and on October 31 1939 he was given the task of reforming and then commanding 236 Squadron at Stradishall. Although a Coastal Command squadron, 236 was placed under Fighter Command control from April 23 1940. On August 1 1940 Drew was shot down and killed, leading a strafing operation on Querqueville aerodrome, possibly by the ground defences. He is buried in Biville churchyard in France. PO 25.7.31 FO 25.1.33 FL 1.4.36 SL 1.12.38

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aircraft’s nose went up and the pilot went round again. On the second approach the same thing happened, the pilot appeared to lose control and the Bombay, L 5813, went into a tail-slide and crashed. Three passengers were killed and six injured, including Duckenfield. He was treated at the Casualty Clearing Station at Epernay and sent back to Roehampton Hospital. He was posted to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge as noneffective sick. After convalescence, Duckenfield rejoined 501, then at Middle Wallop, on July 23 1940. On the 29th he claimed a share in a Ju 87 destroyed, on August 16 damaged a Do 17, on the 28th destroyed a Bf 109 and on September 8 a Bf 110. Duckenfield was posted away to AFDU, Northolt on September 15 1940 on instructional duties and he was awarded the AFC (24.9.41). In October 1941 he took command of 66 Squadron at Perranporth and in February 1942 615 Squadron at Fairwood Common. Duckenfield took the squadron to the Far East in March 1942. He failed to return from an attack on Magwe airfield on December 27 1942. His engine failed over the target, he forced-landed in a creek and was captured by the Japanese. While a prisoner he learned Japanese and created a Japanese/English dictionary. He was released from captivity in Burma in May 1945. He later served in the occupation force in Japan and attended the School of Oriental Studies. He commanded 19 Squadron with Meteors. He received the Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service in the Air. “Ron” Duckenfield retired from the RAF on June 28 1969, as a Group Captain. He spent much time promoting Anglo/Japanese relations. Duckenfield died on November 19 2010.

had administered last rites. His Spitfire, R 6616, crashed and burned out in Jubilee Field, Portslade. Drummond was 21 years old. He is buried in Thornton Garden of Rest, Lancashire. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde. APO 4.6.38 PO 4.4.39 FO 3.9.40

JOHN HOWARD DUART 77352

PO

Air Gunner

British

219 Squadron

Duart was born in Mathon, Herefordshire on September 30 1905. He was at Mrs Cook’s School, Gloucester from 1909 to 1911, at Wadham House School, Hove from 1912 to 1920, Brighton College in 1920/21 and at De Beer’s School in 1922 for book keeping and typing. From 1920 Duart operated a small egg and poultry business. He went to Iquique, Chile in 1923 and worked in the offices of Nitrate Agencies Ltd. He returned to England in 1926 and later in the year went to Maracaibo, Venezuela where he worked for the Caribbean Petroleum Co. In 1931 Duart returned to England and began farming at Broad Oak Farm, Chiddingly. He became an articled clerk with a chartered accountant in 1938. Duart obtained his pilot’s ‘A’ License in 1938 and joined the Civil Air Guard in 1939. After the outbreak of war he volunteered for aircrew duties and was commissioned as a direct-entry Air Gunner in February 1940. After completing a gunnery course at No 1 AAS, Manby, Duart was posted to 219 Squadron at Catterick on March 18. He was detached to CGS, Warmwell on May 14, for a Gunnery Leaders’ course, and rejoined the squadron on June 17. Duart served with it during the Battle of Britain. In April 1942 he went on a Senior Armament Officers’ course at Manby, after which he became Station Armament Officer at RAF Turnberry and later at Long Kesh. In October 1943 he was posted to Canada and went to Penfield Ridge, as Senior Armament Instructor. In 1944 Duart returned to the UK and was with the Ministry of Defence in London until he was released from the RAF on November 23 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. He completed his articles and in May 1948 qualified as a Chartered Accountant. For some years up to 1978 Duart was Hon Secretary and Treasurer of the Battle of Britain Fighter Association. He died at the age of 101 on January 24 2007.

PO 1.4.40 FO 1.4.41 FL 17.3.42 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.1.49 WC 1.7.59

JOSEF DUDA 83224

RONALD EDWIN DUBBER Petty Officer (FAA)

Pilot

British

808 Squadron

Dubber remustered as a Rating Airman u/t Pilot in August 1939. He did his elementary flying training at 24 EFTS, Sydenham, Northern Ireland, with the rank of Leading Airman.

Sub-Lt 1.1.43 Lt 1.7.44

BYRON LEONARD DUCKENFIELD PO

Pilot

British

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

312 Squadron

On June 8 1939 he escaped to Poland and reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate at Krakow and, on the 17th, with 138 other escaped Czechoslovak airmen, he sailed from Gdynia, on the Sobieski, to France After a short time in Paris, Duda was poated to l’Armee de l’Air training airbase at Chartres for re-training to French equipment. He was commissioned in l’Armée de l’Air in late 1939 and, on May 15 1940, was posted to GCII/5 which was equipped with Curtiss H-75c aircraft. On the June 7 he shared in the probable destruction of a Do 17 and on the 14th he destroyed a He 111. With the French capitulation imminent, GCII/5 left the airbase at Perpignan and flew to Oran in Algeria. Duda, with the other Czech airmen, was released from service with l’Armee de l’Air. He left Casablanca on July 8 in the Royal Scotsman and was taken to Gibraltar. He transferred to the David Livingstone and landed at Cardiff on August 20. He was commissioned in the RAFVR in August 1940. Duda was initially at the RAF Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford and from there he joined 312 Squadron at Duxford on September 5. He was appointed Commander, B Flight. He was posted away to 4 Ferry Pilot Pool, at Kemble, on November 17 1940. On February 2 1941 he was posted to the Maintenance Unit at Little Rissington as a staff pilot. On February 8 1941 he was posted as an instructor to 55 OTU but only stayed until February 14. He was then assigned to the Bristol Flying School for Instructors (BFSI) at Yatesbury where, with the exception of a few days at 32 MU, he remained until December 1941. On December 15 1941 Duda was posted to the Czechoslovak Inspectorate General (CIG), London, as Training Officer. He remained in this post until June 22 1943 although he did carry out a few test flights for 32 MU at the end of 1942 and in the spring of 1943. On June 22 1943 Duda was appointed as Commander of the Czechoslovak Fighter Air Force in the rank of Group Captain and designated as Czechoslovak Liaison Officer between CIG and ADGB-HQFC at Bentley Priory. From March 9 to May 9 1945 Duda was CO of the Czechoslovak Fighter Wing based at Manston. Duda was made CBE on January 15 1947 and held the Czech Military Cross. After the end of the war he returned to Czechoslovakia, remained in the Czech Air Force and was

He did his intermediate and advanced training at No 1 FTS, Leuchars on No 6 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to April 21 1940. Dubber joined 808 Squadron, when it was formed at Worthy Down on July 1 1940. It moved north to Castletown on September 8, where it came under Fighter Command, flying Fulmars on dockyard defence. 808 returned to Admiralty control on October 2 and was moved to Donibristle. Dubber embarked with the squadron in HMS Ark Royal on October 22 1940 and took part in actions in the Mediterranean in 1941. He was commissioned in January 1943 and stayed in the FAA after the war. Dubber died on September 10 1951 while serving in 807 Squadron on HMS Ocean in the Mediterranean. His Sea Fury torque-stalled on landing, the starboard oleo leg collapsed, the aircraft hit the deck, skidded over the side and sank.

43368

PO

Duda was born on August 19 1905 in Prague. He entered the Military Academy at Hranice in 1923, graduated in 1925 as an artillery officer and then joined the 111 Artillery Regiment at Kosice. During 1929 /30 he trained as an aerial observer at the Military Academies at Olomouc and Prostejov and was then assigned to 7 Observation Squadron of 3 Air Regiment at Kosice and later at Olomouc. On March 1 1933 he was sent for pilot training to Prostejov which was followed by fighter pilot training at Chleb. On November 31 1933 he returned to Olomouc and was assigned to 35 Fighter Squadron. For the next five years he had postings at Piestany, Kosice, Olomouc, Prostejov and Vajnory. On November 11 1938 Duda was appointed Commander of 45 Fighter Squadron at Spisska Nova Ves, Slovakia. After the Germans took over Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939 he was demobilised on the 17th.

APO 3.2.40 PO 16.3.40 FO 16.3.41 FL 16.3.42

FX 82261

GC 1.1.66

501 Squadron

Duckenfield was born on April 15 1917 in Sheffield. He joined the RAF on November 25 1935 as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot (580071). He did his elementary flying training at the Civil Flying Training School at Brough, 4 E&RFTS. Having proved his aptitude, he was formally enlisted for four years in the RAF on January 20 1936. Duckenfield moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 1 Course, which ran from February 1 to August 8 1936. He was posted to 32 Squadron and was still serving with the squadron on the outbreak of war. Commissioned on April 1 1940, he joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on the 6th and then moved to 501 Squadron at Tangmere on May 5. The squadron flew to France on May 10 and Duckenfield followed with the rear party the next day, in a Bombay transport. As it prepared to touch down at Bétheniville the

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Duke-Woolley relinquished his temporary command on November 16 and was awarded the DFC (24.12.40). He was posted away in January 1941 and in May went to RAF Castletown, to form and command 124 Squadron. He claimed the squadron’s first victory, a Ju 88 shot down on December 17 1941. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (29.5.42). In June 1942 Duke-Woolley was made Wing Leader of the Debden Wing. He flew four sorties with 71 Squadron over Dieppe on August 19. On the 27th he destroyed a FW 190 and on the 29th probably another. After the Eagle squadrons of the Debden Wing were taken into the USAF as the 4th Fighter Group in September 1943, Duke-Woolley flew with it on October 2 and shared in the destruction of a FW 190. He was awarded the DSO (8.1.43) and posted away in January 1943 to HQ 8th USAF Bomber Command, as Fighter Liaison Officer. He was awarded the DFC (US) (5.3.43), the first time it was ever given to a non-American. In July 1943 Duke-Woolley was given the job of forming and working up a Mobile Group Control Centre in 84 Group. He went to Normandy in June 1944, as second-in-command. He returned to England in January 1945, to go to RAF Staff College. Duke-Woolley retired from the RAF on January 30 1961, as a Group Captain. He worked for a life insurance company until his retirement. He was Yeoman Usher of Black Rod in the House of Lords from 1973 to 1979. Duke-Woolley died in Sussex on October 10 1991. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde.

appointed as Commander of the Military Aviation School at Prostejov in the rank of Colonel. On September 1 1948, following the communist takeover, Duda was placed on ‘waiting leave’ and on August 19 1949 he was demoted to the rank of Private and dismissed from the Air Force. Duda died on December 7 1977 at Prostejov, Czechoslovakia. PO 17.8.40 FL 1.3.41 SL 12.41 WC 1942 GC 22.6.43

STANLEY SUTHERLAND DUFF 42340

PO

Pilot

British

23 Squadron

Duff joined the RAF on a short service commission in April 1939 and began his ab initio course on May 30, as a pupil pilot at 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick. He was posted to 11 FTS, Shawbury on July 22 1939 for No 13 Course, which ended on January 27 1940. He went to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on February 9. For unknown reasons he rejoined 12 Group Pool on March 11. The unit was redesignated 5 OTU on March 15 and Duff remained there until June 23, when he joined 23 Squadron, Wittering. He served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain but his first encounter with the Luftwaffe was on December 12 1940. Duff made contact with a Ju 88 just after midnight. He attacked from dead astern, saw strikes on the fuselage but his quarry escaped into cloud. In April 1941 Duff went on No 1 Blind Approach Course at Watchfield, on Ansons. On an intruder patrol in the Lille area in the early hours of May 5 he shot down a He 111, which crashed at Vitry. On June 19 he went to 1451 Flight at Hunsdon, recently-formed with Turbinlite Havocs. He was posted to 141 Squadron at Acklington on February 10 1942, flying Beaufighters on night operations. Shortly afterwards he was involved in an incident where a Beaufighter swerved off the runway. In late May Duff was posted to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course, returning to 141 Squadron in mid-June. On August 14 1942 he shot down a Ju 88 in an evening scramble from Ford. The action was 10 miles N of St Alban’s Head.Duff was posted to RAF Lyneham on January 2 1943. On the 23rd he took off for the Reinforcement Pool at Setif, North Africa, flying via Portreath, Gibraltar and Maison Blanche, Algeria. He arrived at Setif on the 26th. From there he joined 153 Squadron at Maison Blanche on February 13. During the night of April 20/21 1943 Duff destroyed a Ju 88, in Beaufighter EL 169, with Sergeant Perfect as radar operator. On May 13 he destroyed a Ju 88 and on the 15th he destroyed another, on a scramble from Bone, both sorties with Sergeant Perfect. From June 17th 1943 Duff and Perfect acted as support during King George VI’s tour of Tunis, Tripoli and Malta, taking Air Chief Marshal Tedder with them. For his work with the squadron in the night defence of Algiers and Bone, Duff was awarded the DFC (20.8.43). He returned to the UK in July 1943 and was posted to No 1 ADU at Croydon on August 8. When the unit moved to North Weald on July 4 1944, Duff was appointed CO, remaining with it until January 16 1945. He was attached to HQ Fighter Command on January 26 1945, went on a course to 2 FIS, Montrose on April 4, moved to 5(P) AFU at Ternhill on July 5, as an instructor, until November 30 1945. Duff was released from the RAF at Uxbridge on December 1 1945, as a Squadron Leader.

PO 19.12.36 FO 19.6.38 FL 19.6.40 SL 1.9.41 WC 1.7.43 WC 1.7.47 GC 1.1.54

WILLIAM HOWARD DULWICH 751992

British

235 Squadron

PATRICK JAMES DUNCAN No unknown

PO

Radar Operator

British

29 Squadron

Few service details traced. Duncan was bor on December 16 1911. He was a radar operator who had been trained on a short radar course at Yatesbury in June/July 1940. He was commissioned on August 18 1940. It is not known when he joined 29 Squadron but he only flew one recorded operational sortie with the squadron, on September 28 1940. He flew with Flight Sergeant W S Munn as pilot and Sergeant J Ashworth as Air Gunner. Duncan subsequently qualified as a pilot. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.44) and, while serving with 128 Squadron with Mosquitos, the DFC, as an acting Squadron Leader (22.5.45). Duncan was still serving in the RAF when he was killed on September 27 1948 while based at Hullavington. Harvard FT 402 of the Empire Flying School was seen to dive out of cloud while engaged on instrument flying practice. A wing broke off when the pilot attempted to recover.

HUGH SPENCER LISLE DUNDAS

RAYMOND MYLES BEECHAM DUKE DUKE-WOOLLEY Pilot

British

In August he was with 22 Squadron at North Coates. The squadron was non-operational at that time and from mid-August some of its Wop/ AGs were detached to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton. Dulwich joined 235 there on August 24 1940. He flew his first operational sortie with 235 on September 1 and his last on September 9. He rejoined 22 Squadron soon afterwards and was killed on August 2 1941, as a Flight Sergeant, still with 22 Squadron. Dulwich was 21 and he is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 36.

91001 FL

Wop/AG

Dulwich, of Southend-on-Sea, joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Aircrew. With training completed, he was on 206 Squadron by May 1940.

APO 22.7.39 PO 10.2.40 FO 10.2.41 FL 10.2.42

33241

Sgt

FO

Pilot

British

616 Squadron

The son of a colliery director, Dundas was born at Doncaster on July 22 1920, educated at Aysgarth School, Yorkshire and Stowe School. After leaving, he was a trainee solicitor.

23 and 253 Squadrons Born in Manchester on August 18 1916, Duke-Woolley was educated at Marlborough College and entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1935, as a Flight Cadet. He graduated on December 18 1936, with a Permanent Commission, and he joined 23 Squadron at Northolt.

He joined 616 Squadron, AAF in May 1939 and had carried out some training before called to full-time service on August 24 1939. Dundas was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton from 616 Squadron on October 10 1939. He began No 41 Course but was transferred to the Advanced Training Squadron of No 40 Course, which ended on February 17 1940. He flew with 616 Squadron over Dunkirk in late May and early June 1940. On July 3 he shared a Do 17 over the North Sea and damaged one and on August 15 he shared two Ju 88s E of Flamborough Head. On the 22nd Dundas was shot down by Bf 109s over Dover. He baled out and was admitted to Kent and Canterbury Hospital with arm and leg wounds. On January 15 1941 Dundas damaged a Do 17. On May 8 he was shot down by Oberstleutnant Werner Mölders, his 68th victory. Dundas made a forced-landing at Hawkinge. On May 17 he destroyed a Bf 109, on the 25th damaged another, on July 10 destroyed

Made ‘B’ Flight Commander in April 1940, Duke-Woolley destroyed a He 111 in the early hours of June 19. When his night-flying tour was completed, he asked for a posting to a day-fighter squadron. After his second request, he went to 253 Squadron at Kenley on September 12 1940. He claimed a Do 17 probably destroyed on the 15th. Duke-Woolley was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on the 24th and took temporary command of 253 on the 27th, after the CO was shot down and wounded. He shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on October 6, damaged a Ju 88 on the 21st, destroyed a Ju 88 on November 9 and shared a Do 17 and damaged another on the 22nd.

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destruction of a Bf 109 on the 15th but had to make a forced-landing at Hawkinge, having suffered some damage, as well as running low on fuel. He shared another Bf 109 on the 17th. He was badly injured on May 7 1941 when flying Miles Marster T 8780 of 58 OTU. The aircraft dived into the ground three miles N of Falkirk, killing pupil pilot, Pilot Officer V C Arnold, RCAF. Flight Sergeant Dunmore was admitted to Larbert Military Hospital. He died on the 17th and is buried in the churchyard of the Annunciation, Chislehurst, Kent.

a Bf 109, shared a Bf 109 on the 19th, shared one and damaged another on the 21st and destroyed one on the 23rd. He was awarded the DFC (5.8.41) and in September he went to 610 Squadron. Dundas was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader in December 1941 and given command of 56 Squadron. In November 1942 he was posted to Duxford to form the first Typhoon Fighter-Bomber Wing. He was granted an RAF commission on December 1 1942. He went to Tunisia in January 1943, to lead 324 Spitfire Wing and took it to Malta in June. On July 4 Dundas shared a Bf 109. He took the Wing to Sicily on July 7 and he destroyed a Mc 202 on the 13th. The Wing moved to an airfield in the Salerno beach-head in September and on the 24th he shared a Ju 88. In January 1944 Dundas went on to the personal staff of AVM H Broadhurst in the Advanced HQ Desert Air Force in Italy. He was awarded the DSO (3.3.44). In June he was made Wing Leader 244 Wing and in October was promoted to Group Captain and given command of the Wing. He was awarded a Bar to the DSO (20.3.45). Dundas returned to the UK in September 1946 and retired from the RAF on January 25 1947, as a Wing Commander, retaining the rank of Group Captain. He became Air Correspondent for the Daily Express. Dundas joined 601 Squadron (AAF) in 1946 and commanded the squadron from 1948 to 1950. He was Managing Director and later Chairman of Rediffusion, then Managing Director of the parent company BET. He was a council member of the RAF Benevolent Fund. He became a Deputy Lieutenant for Surrey in 1969, was made CBE (1977), knighted in 1987 and became High Sheriff of Surrey in 1989. Dundas died in 1995. He was the younger brother of J C Dundas. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde. APO (AAF) 23.7.39 APO 24.8.39 PO 2.10.39 FO 2.10.40 FL 2.10.41 WC 1.5.45 FO (AAF) 23.4.47

IAN LOVE DUNN 49222

FO

Pilot

British

SL 11.2.43

609 Squadron

PO 11.6.42

90543

FL 11.6.44

FL 11.12.45

SL 1.7.53 WC 1.1.60

PO

Pilot

British

145 Squadron

In August 1938 he joined 601 Squadron, AAF at Hendon and made his first flight there in an Avro Tutor on August 5. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939 and posted later to 6 FTS, Little Rissington. He went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 6 1940 and, after converting to Blenheims, he joined 29 Squadron at Drem on the 27th. Dunning-White was attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 28, ostensibly on a refresher course but it was clearly a conversion course on Hurricanes. Whilst there he was posted from 29 to 145 Squadron on July 2 and he joined the squadron at Tangmere on the 5th. On July 18 he shared a He 111, on the 22nd shared a Do 17, on August 8 destroyed a Ju 87 and a Bf 110 and damaged a Bf 109, on the 11th probably destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another on October 29. On January 10 1941 Dunning-White shared in the probable destruction of a Ju 88. He went to 615 Squadron at Kenley on March 13, as a Flight Commander. After shooting down a Bf 109 over Dungeness on April 15, Dunning-White’s aircraft was severely damaged and he baled out over Dymchurch and was picked up by an ASR launch. In early May 1941 he was posted to 59 OTU, Crosby-on-Eden, as an instructor. DunningWhite was awarded the DFC (6.6.41) and was decorated by the King at Buckingham Palace on July 17 1941. He was attached to 409 (RCAF) Squadron in early 1942 for night-flying experience and in March he went to 255 Squadron at High Ercall. In November the squadron went to North Africa and in March 1943 Dunning-White was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader and made a Flight Commander. He returned to the UK in September 1943 and was posted to the staff at HQ Fighter Command. Dunning-White moved to 100 Group Bomber Command in July 1944 and was released from the RAF on October 8 1945, as a Wing Commander. He was re-commissioned in the AAF in 1946. He died on December 27 2008.

JACK TOWNLEY DUNMORE British

FO 11.12.42

Born at Hadley Wood on April 16 1915, the son of a wealthy industrialist, Dunning-White went to Harrow School, 1929 to 1933, and Jesus College, Cambridge. He was in the University Golf Team in 1935. He learned to fly whilst at University.

PO (AAF) 18.7.38 PO 24.8.39 FO 18.1.40

Pilot

235 Squadron

PETER WILLIAM DUNNING-WHITE

Dundas joined 609 Squadron, AAF in 1938. He was then a journalist on the Yorkshire Post. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939. Over Dunkirk Dundas destroyed a He 111 and shared a Do 17 on May 31 1940 and damaged a He 111 on June 1. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on July 13, another on the 19th, two more Bf 110s on August 11 and 12, a Ju 87 and another shared on the 13th, a Do 17 destroyed and a He 111 shared on the 14th, a probable Bf 110 on the 25th, a Do 17 shared and another damaged on September 15 and a Bf 110 destroyed and a Do 17 damaged on the 24th. Dundas destroyed a Do 17 on the 25th, destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged a Do 17 on the 26th and destroyed a Bf 110 on the 27th. On October 6 Dundas was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander. Next day he shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 and was slightly wounded in the leg. On the 15th he destroyed a Bf 110. Dundas was awarded the DFC (22.10.40). He was made Acting Flight Lieutenant on November 6. On November 27 he probably destroyed a Ju 88 and on the 28th he destroyed a Bf 109, flown by Major Helmut Wick. Almost immediately Dundas was himself attacked by Wick’s No 2 and shot down after being chased out to sea. He apparently crashed three miles off shore. Dundas was 24. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 4. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (7.1.41). Dundas is also remembered on a memorial at Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight, unveiled on November 28 2000, the 60th anniversary of his last flight. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde.

Sgt

British

After training, Dunn joined 29 Squadron at Debden on September 6 1939. Before he was posted to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on May 22, Dunn had qualified as a Gunnery Leader at CGS, Warmwell. He served with 235 throughout the Battle of Britain. On November 19 1940 Dunn’s flight was posted to Aldergrove, where it combined with a flight from 236 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron for anti-shipping operations. Dunn went to 254 Squadron at Sumburgh on April 11 1941 and on July 14 he was posted to 2 (Coastal) OTU, Catfoss. He was commissioned in June 1942 and remained at Catfoss until December 4 1942, when he joined 201 (Flying Boat) Squadron, operating in Sunderlands from Lough Erne. On October 30 1943 he went on to Catalinas, joining 190 Squadron at Sollum Voe, which became 210 in January 1 1944. He was posted to RAF Chivenor on April 4 1944 and spent his time on short attachments to various squadrons until seconded to BOAC in July 1945 and becoming a Qualified 1st Class Civil Air Navigator. Dunn was granted a Permanent Commission in 1945, the first navigator to be awarded one after the war. He was a graduate of RAF Staff College, RAF Flying College and held various staff appointments in Coastal Command before his retirement on December 23 1964, as a Wing Commander. An LL B (Hons), Dunn settled in Australia and became a partner in a law firm, continuing to as a consultant after retiring. He died on March 2 2004.

The son of a colliery director and the older brother of H S L Dundas, Dundas went to Stowe School on a scholarship. He gained an exhibition to Oxford when he was 17 and gained a First in Modern History at Christ Church. He won an award, which took him to the Sorbonne and Heidelberg. He worked as a journalist for the Yorkshire Post, was in Czecholslovakia at the time of the Munich crisis and covered the meeting in Rome between Mussolini, British Prime Minister, Neville Chamberlain and Foreign Secretary, Lord Halifax.

741448

Observer

Born on June 5 1920, Dunn joined the RAF as a direct-entry Airman u/t Observer (580747) on February 6 1939. He was posted to No 1 AOS on June 20, moving to 9 AOS, Penrhos on August 1.

JOHN CHARLES DUNDAS 90334

Sgt

266 and 222 Squadrons

Dunmore, of Egham, Surrey, joined the RAFVR on April 15 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training, and was at 10 B&GS by June 1940, as a staff pilot. He was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2, converted to Spitfires and joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on the 16th. Dunmore moved to 222 Squadron at Hornchurch on October 1. He shared in the

APO (AAF) 27.11.38 FL (AAF) 28.11.46

145

APO 24.8.39

PO 4.5.40

FO 9.12.40

FL 9.12.41 SL 4.11.44

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RAYMOND DOUGLAS DUNSCOMBE 87403

Sgt

Pilot

British

Technical Branch (Signals). On April 30 1968 he joined the Engineering Staff, Strike Command. He died in Greenwich, London in 1969.

213 Squadron

5.42 FO 9.11.42

Born in Croydon on November 11 1918, Dunscombe worked at the London Stock Exchange before the war. He joined the RAFVR in July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741772).

NZ 40605

British

66 and 54 Squadrons

With his training completed, he joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge on October 8 1930. Dunworth was appointed Personal Assistant to the AOC Fighting Area, Uxbridge on April 24 1933. With his service completed, he went on to the RAFO on October 11 1934, becoming a civilian instructor at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield. Recalled on September 1 1939, Dunworth was appointed a flying instructor at 11 FTS, Shawbury. On August 11 1940 he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 66 Squadron at Coltishall on the 23rd, as a supernumerary. Dunworth was slightly wounded on September 4, in a combat over the Thames Estuary and made a forced-landing at Great Cowbridge Farm, near Billericay, in Spitfire N 3044. He was posted to 54 Squadron at Catterick on September 7, again as a supernumerary. He was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader and given command of the squadron on the 18th. He was posted away to 5 FTS, Sealand on January 8 1941. Dunworth was awarded the AFC (3.4.45) and released from the RAF in 1946, as a Wing Commander. FO 14.4.31

FO (RAFO) 11.10.34

FL (RAFO) 1.4.37

Sgt

Pilot

British

New Zealander

23 Squadron

PO 10.6.42

MARIAN DURYASZ 76750

FO

Pilot

Polish

213 Squadron

Duryasz was born on December 14 1911, at BudyPobytkowskie, near Warsaw. He joined the PAF in 1932. After the fall of Poland, he made his way to England and went to RAF Eastchurch in early January 1940. After arrival he was granted a commission in the RAFVR. He was later posted to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool. On July 4 1940 he went to 15 EFTS, Redhill for a testing and grading course. He was sent to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 18. He converted to Hurricanes and joined 213 Squadron at Exeter on August 17. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on September 11, a Do 17 on the 15th and he probably destroyed a He 111 on the 26th. On October 14 1940 Duryasz crashed at Tangmere in Hurricane V 6541, after his windscreen was covered in ice and his undercarriage collapsed after a heavy landing. Duryasz was posted away on November 20 to 302 (Polish) Squadron’s Operations Room at Northolt. He was awarded the KW (23.12.40) and a Bar (1.2.41). He moved to 317 (Polish) Squadron’s Operations Room at Exeter on January 31 1942. Duryasz returned to operations on March 20, with a posting as a Flight Commander to 317 Squadron at Exeter. He destroyed a FW 190 on April 28. He was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on June 1 1942 and went to Polish Staff College on June 14. He joined 316 (Polish) Squadron at Northolt on June 1 1943, moved to 302 (Polish) Squadron at Llandbedr on January 14 1944, was posted as a supernumerary to 303 (Polish) Squadron at Horne on May 22 and took command of 302, then at Appledram on July 5. Duryasz was awarded the DFC. On January 30 1945 he was appointed to the Polish Staff at HQ 2nd TAF and in February he was posted to RAF Wick. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (1.6.45). He was released in December 1946 and returned to Poland, where he joined the military service. Discharged after the Communists took over in 1950, Duryasz was allowed to rejoin the Air Force in 1957. He died in Warsaw on March 21 1993.

FL 1.9.39

OSWALD ARTHUR DUPEE 123298

Air Gunner

training. He joined 23 Squadron at Ford on September 21 1940. Durrant was with the squadron until early March 1942, when he was posted to 116 Squadron at Hooton Park, flying in Lysanders on radar calibration duties. In May 1942 he went to 1653 Conversion Unit, Polebrook for conversion to Liberators. Commissioned in June, Durrant joined 1445 Flight, Ferry Command at Lyneham and flew in a Liberator on a delivery flight to Egypt, returning as a passenger in various civil aircraft, including a Boeing Clipper. On arrival back he went to hospital, with malaria. He returned to duty in early October and was posted to 160 Squadron at Aqir, Palestine. Durrant flew there in a Liberator on October 19 1942. Eight days later he took off on a night operational flight to Crete. Radio contact was lost in the early hours of the 28th and the crew is officially presumed to have been lost on this date. Another member of the crew was New Zealander Pilot Officer C C Reilly. He and Durrant had been together from the day they joined up. After the war Durrant’s remains were re-interred in the Suda Bay Military Cemetery, Crete.

Dunworth joined the RAF on a short service commission in October 1929 and began his flying training at 3 FTS, Grantham on October 26.

PO 11.10.29 SL 1.12.41

Sgt

Durrant reported to the Ground Training School, Weraroa on that day, going a month later to the Air Observers’ School, Ohakea for a gunnery course. He sailed for the UK in the RMS Rangitiki on April 26. After landing in the UK on June 8, he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge. Durrant was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 17, where he was awarded his air gunner’s badge after further

FELIX PATRICK RAPHAEL DUNWORTH Pilot

SL 1.1.56

Born in Wellington on April 5 1919, Durrant was educated at Rongotai College and worked as a monotype operator at the Government Printing Office. He was in the Territorial Army for 2 years prior to his volunteering for aircrew duties in November 1939. He was released from the Army and enlisted in the RNZAF on February 13 1940.

PO 7.11.40

FL

FL 20.12.48

CARROLL RONALD DURRANT

Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and then was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 26 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 213 Squadron at Biggin Hill on June 9. Dunscombe claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on August 15. On September 17 his aircraft was damaged in combat and he baled out, sustaining serious injuries when he landed in a tree. His Hurricane crashed at Paley Farm, Folly Hill, near Cranbrook. Dunscombe rejoined 213, then at Tangmere, in early November. He was commissioned on the 7th and made his first flight after rejoining the squadron on the 10th. The last mention of him in the squadron ORB was made on December 5 1940. At some time Dunscombe underwent plastic surgery at Queen Victoria Cottage Hospital, East Grinstead and was a Guinea Pig. He was killed in Crete on May 31 1941, as a Pilot Officer with 33 Squadron. His name is on the Alamein Memorial, Column 241 and on the 33 Squadron panel of the RAF Memorial near Maleme in Crete.

28185

FL 9.5.44

219 Squadron

Dupee joined Class ‘F’ of the RAF Reserve about September 1934, as an Airman u/t Pilot (700102). He was called up on September 1 1939 and was on No 5 Course at 12 FTS, Grantham from September 25 to April 10 1940. He joined 219 Squadron at Catterick direct from 12 FTS on April 20. On August 15 Dupee was flying in Blenheim L 8698 with Sergeant T H Banister as his gunner, when their aircraft was hit by return fire from a He 111 they engaged off Scarborough. Dupee was wounded in the arm. Banister went forward, assisted Dupee from his seat and took control of the damaged aircraft. Dupee, although weak from loss of blood, directed Banister, who was thus enabled to make a forced-landing at Driffield aerodrome, with undercarriage retracted. For this action both men were awarded the DFM (24.9.40). Dupee rejoined 219 Squadron on November 26 1940 but was declared fit for nonoperational flying only on December 6 by a Medical Board. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in May 1942, Dupee was awarded the DFC (21.1.44), as a Flying Officer with 684 Squadron, a Mosquito photographic-reconnaissance unit in the Far East. Dupee was released from the RAF after the war but rejoined in December 1948 in the

PO 27.1.40 F0 1.3.41 FL 28.4.42 SL 1.9.44

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STANISLAW DUSZYNSKI 780764

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

He commanded 525 Squadron at Lyneham and Membury from June 15 1945 to March 28 1946. He held various appointments and commands in the post-war years. He was ADC to the Queen, was made a CBE, went to Moscow as a Defence and Air Attaché in May 1968 and retired on December 3 1970, as a Group Captain, retaining the rank of Air Commodore. Dutton died on September 14 1988 and is buried in St Luke’s churchyard, Whyteleafe, Surrey.

238 Squadron

Duszynski was born on October 28 1915. After the fall of Poland he made his way to England and was enlisted in the RAFVR at RAF Eastchurch on February 20 1940. He moved to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool on June 1. Duszynski was posted to 15 EFTS, Redhill on July 18, for testing and grading, after which he went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 1 1940, to convert to Hurricanes. Duszynski joined 238 Squadron at St Eval on September 2. He failed to return from a combat with Ju 88s pursued over Romney Marsh on September 11 and was reported ‘Missing’. A Hurricane excavated at Little Scotney Farm, Lydd in 1973 proved to be R 2682, flown by Duszynski on his last flight. The aircraft was 15 feet deep in boggy land. A shoe, pieces of uniform and some notes were found but no human remains. A further examination of the site many years later showed that among the fragments of metal scattered around were pieces of human bone, thrown up and reburied by the plough each year. Duszynski was no longer ‘Missing’.

APO 24.8.36 PO 29.6.37 WC 1.7.50 GC 1.7.57

LAC

Radar Operator

British

FL 3.9.40

SL 1.12.41

WC 1.7.44

REGINALD ALBERT LLOYD DU VIVIER 79370

PO

Pilot

British

229 Squadron

Du Vivier attended Malvern College and joined the RAFVR in January 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741241), carrying out his elementary flying training at 17 E&RFTS, Barton. Called up on September 1 1939, he was on No 44 Course at 2 FTS, Brize Norton from December 11 1939 to May 18 1940. On completion of the course he was commissioned and joined 229 Squadron at Digby. On September 27 he probably destroyed a Ju 88 and on December 12 he shared in the destruction of a Bf 109. Du Vivier was killed on March 30 1941, still with 229. He and Flying Officer J M E Dewar both failed to return from a patrol. It was thought probable that they had collided with one another. Du Vivier was 26. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 32 and on the Battle of Britain Memorial at Malvern College.

GEORGE WINTON DUTTON 199289

FO 21.3.39

604 Squadron

Dutton enlisted at RAFVR Padgate about February 1940 (979834). No details have been found of his training but he is first mentioned in the 604 Squadron ORB on July 7 1940. Dutton flew one operational sortie with 604, on July 24 1940. The last mention of him in the ORB was made on August 23 1940. He was commissioned in August 1945. Nothing further known.

PO 19.5.40

ALOIS DVORAK 787672

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

310 Squadron

PO 1.8.45 Dvorak was born in Plumlov on May 23 1916. On October 1 1935 he enrolled into the Military Aviation Academy at Prostejov for pilot training. On graduation he was posted to 5 Squadron of 2 Aviation Regiment at Olomouc. After the Germans took over Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939 he was demobilised on the 17th. On July 9 1939, with Jaroslav Sala, he left Olomouc by train .hiding in a toilet until it had crossed into Poland. On the 21st he arrived in Krakow and reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate and, on the 27th he went to Gdynia and boarded the Chroby bound for Boulogne, France where he arrived on the 31st. After the fall of Poland he joined the l’Armée de l’Air in September 1939.

ROY GILBERT DUTTON 39072

FL

Pilot

British

145 Squadron

Dutton was born at Hatton, Ceylon on March 2 1917. He joined the RAF in June 29 1936 on a short service commission and began his flying training. On September 5 he was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose and on completion of his training, he joined 111Squadron at Northolt on April 24 1937. In early 1940 Dutton was still with 111. On January 13 he shared a He 111 and on March 8 destroyed another. He was posted to 145 Squadron on April 3 and appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander next day. He was promoted Acting Flight Lieutenant on the 16th, with effect from the 4th. E of Brussels on May 18, Dutton destroyed a He 111 and shared another and on the 19th and 22nd destroyed another two He 111s. Off Dunkirk on the 31st, Dutton destroyed a Bf 109 and shared another and on June 1 he destroyed two Bf 109s and a Bf 110. He was awarded the DFC (31.5.40). Dutton shared a Do 17 on July 1, claimed a He 111 destroyed on the 11th, damaged a Ju 88 on the 17th, shared a He 111 on the 19th, damaged a Ju 88 on August 1, claimed three Ju 87s probably destroyed and a Bf 110 damaged on the 8th, got two probable Bf 110s and damaged two more on the 11th and destroyed a Ju 88 on the 12th. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (20.8.40). Dutton was posted from the squadron to RAF Drem on August 28 1940, as non-effective sick. He was posted from Drem to RAF Hornchurch on September 16. He returned to 145 Squadron, then at Tangmere, on December 22 1940, as non-operational, and was immediately posted to RAF Tangmere, as non-effective sick. On April 12 1941 Dutton went to Kirton-in-Lindsey, to form and then command 452, the first RAAF fighter squadron. He left to command 19 Squadron at Fowlmere on June 15, damaged a Bf 109 on the 23rd but went to a staff job at Air Ministry on July 16. In preparation for a return to operations, Dutton was posted to 54 OTU, Church Fenton on March 3 1942. After converting to Beaufighters, he joined 141 Squadron on April 17, as a Flight Commander. Tour-expired, Dutton was attached to No 1 ADF, Croydon on November 26 1942 and soon afterwards joined the Overseas Staff. In early May 1943 he was posted to HQ Middle East and on September 9 took command of 4 Ferry Control at Habbaniya, Iraq. Dutton was appointed SASO 249 Wing on April 1 1944. He returned to the UK later in the year and on December 12 he went to HQ 46 Group, as Wing Commander Ops. In January 1945 Dutton took command of 512 Squadron at Broadwell and in March was detailed to lead a glider train, comprising well over 400 tug and glider combinations, conveying an airborne division to a point between Weser and Emmerich. Dutton was first to reach the area and his tug and glider combination came under heavy fire but he pressed on to the landing zone, several miles behind enemy lines. He only gave the order for the glider to be released when he was sure it would reach its objective. For this action Dutton was awarded the DSO (8.6.45).

On September 11 he was sent to Avord, near Bourges, for retraining to French equipment and then to Istres, on December 11 1939. On January 16 1940 Dvorak went to Chartres for fighter pilot training and then, on May 23 1940, to Cazaux, near Bordeaux. During his time with l’Armee de l’Air, Dvorak did not fly operationally. When France fell, Dvorak went to England. He sailed from Bordeaux on June 19 1940, on the Robur III, and arrived in Falmouth on the 22nd. He was enlisted in the RAFVR in August. and was posted from the Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 28. He converted to Hurricanes and he joined 310 Squadron at Duxford on October 15 1940. Apart from a short detachment to 257 Squadron, in May 1941, Dvorak remained with 310 Squadron for his time with the RAF. Dvorak crashed in Hurricane P 2795 at Debden on November 5 after being attacked by Bf 109s over the Thames Estuary. He was unhurt. On September 24 1941, still with 310 Squadron, Dvorak was flying from Dyce to Montrose, when he crashed, in bad weather and poor visibility, on Leachie Hill, W of Stonehaven, in Hurricane MkIIa Z2766 NN-V, and was killed. Dvorak is buried in Dyce Old Churchyard, Aberdeen.

BERTRAM ERNEST DYE 47873

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

219 Squadron

Dye, of Stakeford, joined the RAF, as an Aircrafthand (620298), in September 1938. He later trained as an Air Gunner and was with 219 Squadron at Catterick in June 1940. With the advent of AI equipment and the Beaufighter, Dye and other 219 air gunners retrained as radar operators. In January 1941 he teamed up with Pilot Officer A J Hodgkinson and they had great success. During the night of February 26/27 they damaged a He 111, on March 13/14 they destroyed a Do 17, on April 7/8 a He 111, on the 10/11th probably a Ju 88, on April 30/ May 1 a He 111 destroyed and another unidentified aircraft damaged, on May 9/10 and 16/17th two He 111s destroyed, on June 25/26 a He 111 and on July 27/28 a Ju 88.

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land with the flaps in the wrong position and, following an air drill on the 30th, he crashed on landing and wrote off Hurricane P 5187. He was sent for further training to CFS, Upavon, on November 27, and rejoined No 1 Squadron from there on December 6. In three separate sorties in Hurricane, Z2687, in the early hours of the morning of May 11 1941, Dygryn shot down two He 111s and a Ju 88 attacking London. On the 16th he destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 21st damaged another over the Channel. On June 16 shared in destroying a He 59 and on the 17th he shot down a Bf 109 into the sea off Boulogne. Awarded the Czech Military Cross and Medal for Gallantry in late May 1941, Dygryn was posted to 310 Squadron at Dyce on September 23 1941. In November he was a pall bearer at the funeral of Sergeant Alois Dvorak (qv). Dygryn was awarded the DFM in March 1942 and on May 20 returned to No 1 Squadron, then at Tangmere, as a Warrant Officer. On June 3/4 Dygryn took off on his first night intruder operation, to patrol airfields around Evreux, in Hurricane Z 3183. He failed to return and may have been hit by flak as he crossed back over the French coast. Three months later, on September 8 1942, a body was washed up at Worthing which was identified as Dygryn. He had married Doris Reeves at Caterham, Surrey, on September 7 1941. She was a member of the WAAF, stationed at Kenley, but contracted tuberculosis and died at a sanatorium at Lenham, Kent. She was buried in an unmarked grave at Westwell Burial Ground, Kent and Dygryn was buried there, in proximity to his wife’a grave, on September 14 1942.

Dye was awarded the DFM (2.5.41) and a Bar (6.6.41). Commissioned in December 1941, Dye returned to operations in March 1942, going with Hodgkinson to 264 Squadron at Colerne. During the night of June 28/29 they damaged a Do 217 SE of Portland Bill. Dye was killed on August 31 1943, as a Flight Lieutenant with 96 Squadron. He was 23 and is buried in St Peter’s New Burial Ground, Cambois, Northumberland. Dye’s brother-in-law, Sergeant G Turner, RAF, died on August 12 1942, aged 21. He was serving with 461 (RAAF) Squadron. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial. PO 17.12.41 FO 1.10.42

HENRY DAVID PATRICK DYER NZ 4075

Sgt

Air Gunner

New Zealander

600 Squadron

The son of a policeman, Dyer was born at Paeroa on May 4 1919. In March 1939 he applied for a short service commission but was unsuccessful. He volunteered for aircrew at the outbreak of war.

LESLIE ARTHUR DYKE

Dyer reported to the Ground Training School, Weraroa on March 12 1940 and moved to 2 EFTS, New Plymouth on April 8. He did not settle to pilot training and he remustered as a trainee air gunner. After a gunnery course at the Air Observers’ School, Ohakea, Dyer sailed for the UK in the RMS Rangitata on June 7 1940. After arrival, he was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 30 and after completing his training and being awarded his air gunner’s badge, he joined 600 Squadron at Redhill on September 21. With the advent of airborne radar and the arrival of Beaufighters, the air gunners were flying less and less. In late 1940 those not wishing to retrain, Dyer among them, were transferred to Bomber Command. He was posted to 11 OTU, Bassingbourn on February 6 1941. He was crewed-up, converted to Wellingtons and joined 218 Squadron at Marham, Norfolk on April 19. The aircraft, in which he was flying as a gunner, failed to return from operations on the night of July 15/16 1941 and the crew was posted as ‘Missing’. It was later learned from a German source, through the International Red Cross, that Dyer had been killed and was buried in Venlo Cemetery, Holland. After the war he was re-interred in the Jonkerbosch British Cemetery, Holland.

754831

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

Pilot

British

64 Squadron

Dyke, of Sutton, Surrey, joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield in September 1940. On the 27th he failed to return from a routine sector patrol, in Spitfire X 4032, cause unknown. It was his first operational sortie. Dyke was 22. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 13.

WILLIAM LAWRENCE DYMOND 580059

Sgt

Pilot

British

111 Squadron

Born on November 11 1917, Dymond was educated at Richmond County School, Surrey. He provisionally joined the RAF in September 1935, as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot. He began his elementary flying training at 3 Civil Flying Training School at Hamble on November 25 1935. After proving his aptitude, he was formally enlisted in the RAF on January 20 1936. Dymond was on No 1 Course at 10 FTS, Ternhill from February 1 to August 8 1936. With training completed, he joined 111 Squadron at Northolt soon afterwards, as a Sergeant-Pilot. He was still with 111 and was presented to the King, when George VI visited the squadron at Drem in

JOSEF DYGRYN 787678

Sgt

85 and 1 Squadrons

Dygryn was born in Prague on March 6 1918. He joined the Czechoslovak Air Force and attended the Air Force training base, at Prostejov, in 1937/8 where he took a course in instrument flying. After the Germans marched into Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939 he was demobilised on the 17th. On June 14 1939 he escaped, on foot, to Poland and reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate at Krakow. On July 26 he boarded the Kastelholm, at Gdynia, bound for Calais, where he arrived on July 30. He joined l’Armée de l’Air, retrained on the French equipment and flew with CIC at Chartres.

February 1940. On April 10 Dymond shared in the destruction of a He 111.During a patrol over France on May 18, he shot down two Do 17s. Over Dunkirk on May 31 he destroyed two He 111s and on June 11 he destroyed a Bf 109. In August 1940 the squadron was heavily engaged, flying from Croydon and then Debden. Dymond destroyed a Do 17 and damaged another on August 13, destroyed a Bf 110 and a Do 17, probably another Do 17 and damaged two Bf 110s on the 15th, damaged another Do 17 on the 16th, destroyed another Do 17 and damaged another on the 18th, shared a He 111 on the 24th and damaged a Bf 110 on the 30th.At some time during August Dymond was interviewed on BBC radio and the text of the broadcast appears in the book ‘Winged Words’, published in 1941. In a combat over the Thames Estuary on September 2, Dymond was shot down and killed, in Hurricane P 3875. With no known grave, he is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 13. Four days after his death the London Gazette announced the award of the DFM (6.9.40) to Sergeant W L Dymond.

When France fell Dygryn escaped to Bordeaux and boarded the Ary Schaeffer on June 19 1940, which took him to Falmouth, arriving on the 23rd. He joined the RAFVR in August and was posted from the Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 28. On October 9 the undercarriage of Dygryn’s Hurricane, N 2367, collapsed whilst taxying in a strong wind at Sutton Bridge. He joined 85 Squadron at Church Fenton on October 14 and went on to No 1 Squadron at Wittering on the 22nd. On the 29th he wrote off Hurricane N 2433 when attempting to

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E ARTHUR WILLIAM EADE 563253

Sgt

Pilot

British

16 to December 24 1936. No details are known of his pre-war postings but he was with 46 Squadron at Digby in early May 1940. On May 9 the squadron embarked on the carrier HMS Glorious, bound for Norway. She sailed for Harstad but the airfield there was found to be unusable and the carrier retuned to Scapa Flow. The carrier sailed again a few days later and on May 26 ten Hurricanes, one piloted by Earp, flew off to Skaanland, where two crashed on landing because of soft ground. The other eight flew on to Bardufoss, from where they flew patrols, covering the operation in the Narvik area. On June 7 the squadron flew its still-serviceable aircraft back on to the Glorious. Earp was among those evacuated by sea by the Royal Navy on June 8. He rejoined 46 Squadron when it came together and was reformed at Digby on June 15 1940. Earp damaged a Ju 88 N of Southend on September 3 and destroyed a Do 17 N of Dungeness. In February 1941 he was instructing at 2 CFS, when his Oxford was attacked on the 16th by German aircraft. He and his pupils escaped unhurt. Promoted to Warrant Officer on October 1 1941, Earp was commissioned in August 1953 in the Engineer Branch. He retired on January 4 1967, as a Flight Lieutenant. His death date is not known. He is remembered on a memorial plaque at St Thomas Botelier School.

266 and 602 Squadrons

Eade was born in 1912. He attended Midhurst Grammar School between 1926 and 1928 and joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice, in January 1929. He passed out in December 1931, as a Fitter, Aero Engines. He applied for Observer training, was selected and then remustered as an Airman u/t Observer. He reported to the Air Observers’ School at North Coates on March 13 1937. With the course completed, Eade was posted to 90 Squadron at Bicester on July 13 1937, as a Corporal-Observer. He later applied for pilot training and was again selected. On March 13 1939 he began training at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Two months later Eade was posted to 12 FTS, Grantham for his intermediate and advanced training. On November 5 1939, with the course completed, he joined 266 Squadron, then reforming at Sutton Bridge. The squadron was to be equipped with Blenheims but this never happened and all training was carried out in Battles. From January 1940 the squadron received Spitfires. On August 15 Eade destroyed a He 115 twelve miles E of Deal and later that day he shared in the probable destruction of a Ju 88. Eade was posted to 602 Squadron at Westhampnett on September 13 1940 and on November 8 he shared in damaging a Ju 88 off Cherbourg. He moved to 610 Squadron at Acklington on December 16 1940. During a sweep off Calais on March 19 1941, Eade was jumped by a Bf 109 and shot down, with shrapnel wounds to a shoulder and an arm. He turned and made a forcedlanding near Hailsham. Eade was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on April 14 1941, as an instructor. He was promoted to Warrant Officer on October 1 and joined 65 Squadron at Westhampnett on November 3 1941. He had been with the squadron for more than a year when he returned to 58 OTU, to serve in the Maintenance Wing. In July 1944 Eade went to 61 OTU, as an instructor. He was awarded the AFC (2.6.43). He was released from the RAF in September 1947, as a Warrant Officer. He died in 1971. Eade is remembered on a plaque at Midhurst Rother College, formerly Midhurst Grammar School.

FO 20.8.53 FL 20.8.56

DAVID ALBERT EASTON 129240

Sgt

Pilot

British

248 Squadron

Easton joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745141). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and then moved to No 1 (C) OTU at Silloth, where he was on No 5 Blenheim course from September 3 to 21 1940. He joined 248 Squadron at Sumburgh on September 25. Easton was commissioned in July 1942 and later served with 201 Squadron, flying Sunderland flying boats. In 1945 Easton joined BOAC and flew with the airline until 1972, after which he flew with Olympic Airways and PIA. PO 19.7.42 FO 19.1.43 FL 19.7.44

Sergeant HARRY EARLY flew operational sorties with 25 Squadron during the Battle. No other information has been discovered.

ALAN FRANCIS ECKFORD 41563

FO

Pilot

British

242, 32 and 253 Squadrons

RICHARD LLEWELLYN EARP 562541

Sgt

Pilot

British

46 Squadron

Eckford, who attended King Edward VI Grammar School, Birmingham, entered the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training on October 31 1938, as a pupil pilot.

Born on January 3 1912, Earp was educated at Botelier Grammar School, Warrington and joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice, in September 1928. He passed out in August 1931, as a Fitter.

He went on to 9 FTS, Hullavington, where he was on No 9 Course, from January 30 to August 28 1939. With training completed, he did a short course at No 1 AAS, Manby, after which he joined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on September 5. Eckford was detached from 32 to the School of Air Navigation at St Athan, for a course, on May 5 1940. He rejoined 32 on the 17th. On the 19th he probably destroyed a Bf 109 near Cambrai, on a patrol over Northern France. The squadron went to Wittering on the 26th.

He applied for Pilot training, was selected and remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot on March 9 1936. Earp carried out his ab initio course at 10 Civil Flying Training School at Yatesbury. He moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill, where he was on No 2 Course, which ran from May

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Embodied on August 24 1939, Edge was with 605 at Wick when it saw its first action, in defence of Scapa Flow. On April 10 1940 he damaged three He 111s E of the Flow and on May 9 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17. The squadron moved south to Hawkinge on May 21 for operations over France. On the 22nd Edge claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed and possibly another damaged, on the 23rd he damaged a He 111 and two Bf 109s, on the 25th three Ju 87s and a Bf 109 destroyed and a Ju 87 damaged, on the 26th a Ju 88 destroyed, another possibly destroyed and a Bf 110 damaged and on the 27th one Do 17 destroyed and another shared. 605 returned north, to Drem, on the 28th. Edge was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on June 21. Promoted to Acting Squadron Leader he went to Kenley on September 5 1940, to command 253 Squadron. On the 7th Edge claimed two He 111s destroyed and another damaged, on the 9th he claimed four Ju 88s destroyed and on the 11th a Bf 109 and two He 111s destroyed and probably another. He was awarded the DFC (13.9.40). On the 15th he destroyed a Do 17 and a Ju 88. Edge was himself shot down in an action over the Channel on the 26th. He baled out, was picked up by a boat and admitted to Willsborough Hospital, Ashford. Edge was posted to RAF Kenley on October 5, as non-effective sick, with effect from September 29. He rejoined 253 Squadron on November 14, as a supernumerary for flying duties. He relinquished his rank of Acting Squadron Leader on again being non-effective sick. On December 5 1940 Edge returned to 605 Squadron, then at Croydon, to take command. He led the squadron until September 1941, when he was posted overseas to form and command 73 OTU at Aden, as Wing Commander CFI. He later went to Egypt, becoming SASO at the Western Desert Air Force Control Centre. In July 1943 Edge went back to the UK and took command of 84 Group Control Centre, moving later to France, as a Group Captain. Edge was made an OBE (1.1.45) and took up an appointment at the Air Ministry. He was released from the RAF later in the year, as a Group Captain. He went farming in Kenya but returned to England to live in retirement. He died in 2000. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde.

On June 3 Eckford was posted to 242 Squadron at Biggin Hill. Five days later it flew to Le Mans, to reinforce No 1, 73 and 501 Squadrons, but on arrival it moved immediately to Chateaudun. Eckford destroyed a Bf 109 at Seine-Rouen on June 14. The squadron was withdrawn to England on the 18th. It became operational again on July 9 at Coltishall and next day Eckford damaged a He 111. He rejoined 32 at Biggin Hill on July 24. He claimed a Ju 88 and a Bf 109 destroyed on August 18, shared a Hs 126 on the 25th and damaged a He 111 on the 26th. Eckford was posted to 253 Squadron on September 9 and joined it at Kenley on the 12th. On the 27th he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed, on October 30 and November 5 he destroyed two Bf 109s, on the 22nd shared a Do 17 and damaged another and on the 23rd he destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another. Eckford was awarded the DFC (24.12.40). In early 1941 he was appointed a Flight Commander. In May 1941 253 was stationed at Skeabrae, in the Orkneys. On the 5th Eckford engaged a FW Kondor fifty miles out to sea. He raked it with gunfire but seeing no appreciable damage, he made no claim. In November 1941 he was posted to 55 OTU, Usworth, as an instructor. Eckford went to 64 Squadron at Southend in April 1942 and in June he joined 154 Squadron at Hornchurch. He damaged a Do 17 and a FW 190 during the operations over Dieppe on August 19 and probably destroyed a FW 190 on the 27th. Eckford went with 154 to North Africa in early November 1942. On the 12th he shared a Do 217 and destroyed a Ju 88 next day and shared another. He was slightly injured by flying debris during an attack by Bf 109 fighterbombers on the airfield at Djidelli. After a rest, Eckford was given command of 242 Squadron at Souk-el-Khemis on March 9 1943. He was posted away in May and released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1990. APO 14.1.39 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.44

ALEXANDER ROTHWELL EDGE 90325

FL

Pilot

British

609 Squadron PO (AAF) 11.7.36 Born in 1908 Edge trained up to ‘A’ Licence standard at the Yorkshire Aero Club in a scheme sponsored by the Daily Mail, as part of Amy Johnson’s ‘Get Air-Minded’ campaign, after her solo flight to Australia.

ALWYN EDGLEY 135393

British

British

601 and 253 Squadrons

PO 4.4.42 FO 4.10.42 FL 4.4.44

GUY ARTHUR FOWNES EDMISTON 84955

PO

Pilot

British

151 Squadron

Born in Liverpool on March 18 1918, Edmiston was at Uppingham School from 1931 to 1935. After leaving he went to work as an office boy at a Lloyd’s broking firm. He joined the RAFVR on October 13 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742241). Called up on September 1 1939, he continued his flying training at 9 EFTS, Ansty. Edmiston went on to 12 FTS, Grantham, where he was on No 11 Course, which ran from June 9 to September 6 1940. On completion, Edmiston was commissioned and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 10. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 151 Squadron at Digby on September 29. He flew some operational sorties in late October. In November 1940 the squadron began to receive Defiants. In the early hours of May 3 1941 Edmiston, with Sergeant A G Beale as his gunner,

GERALD RICHMOND EDGE Pilot

Pilot

His first flight with 601 was made on the 5th, a local one, and his last was made on the 15th, a section patrol. Soon afterwards Edgley moved to 253 Squadron at Kenley, flying his first operational sortie with it on September 24, an interception patrol. On the 29th he was shot down by a Bf 109, baled out, wounded in the shoulder, landing at South Heighton and was admitted to Horton Hospital. His Hurricane, P 2677, crashed in flames at New Road, Denton, near Newhaven. His next operational sortie was made on November 13. In 1941 Edgley went on an instructor’s course and was later posted to Canada. Commissioned in April 1942, he returned to the UK in late 1943 and subsequently transferred to the Administrative Branch. Edgley was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant.

PO (AAF) 22.6.37 FO (AAF) 22.12.38 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

FL

Sgt

Edgley joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754036). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 601 Squadron at Tangmere from 7 OTU on September 4 1940.

He joined 609 Squadron, AAF in 1936 and was commissioned in June 1937. Edge was called to full-time service on August 24 1939. On January 29 1940 he and two other pilots were sent to intercept a He 111, bombing a merchant ship off the mouth of the Tay. They inflicted damage but it is known that the enemy aircraft regained its base. Over Dunkirk on June 1, Edge claimed a Bf 110 destroyed. On July 12 he shared in the destruction of a He 111, on the 18th, in an engagement off Swanage, he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 with two other pilots. In the action his glycol system was damaged by return fire from a Ju 88 and Edge made a forced-landing on Studland Beach, which was mined. He was taken off by sea by the Navy. On August 15 he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed. His last sortie with 609 was made on August 24, a patrol over St Catherine’s Point, during which enemy aircraft were intercepted. Soon afterwards Edge was posted away to Training Command and went to 9 FTS, Hullavington, as an instructor. On November 6 1940 he was posted to 55 OTU, Aston Down, as an instructor. For these services, Edge was later awarded the AFC (1.1.43). In late 1942 he went to North Africa and became a Liaison Officer between Group HQ and the operational squadrons. When Edge returned to the UK in 1943, he acted as escort for Leutnant Hubertus von Greim, son of General Ritter von Greim, an extremely important figure in the Luftwaffe. The young von Greim, of 6 JG/53, had crash-landed at Tabarka after his Bf 109’s cooling system was damaged in combat with RAF fighters on December 31 1942. After a spell at an OTU, Edge was appointed Wing Commander Flying Training at HQ 12 Group. In March 1945 he was posted to SEAC HQ, Delhi, as OC Accident Investigation. Edge was released from the RAF on September 15 1945, as a Wing Commander. He died in 1985.

90249

FO (AAF) 16.1.38 FO 24.8.39 FL 1.6.40 SL 1.9.41 WC 1.1.44

605 and 253 Squadrons

Born at Codsall, Staffordshire on September 24 1913, Edge was at Oundle School from 1927 to 1931, after which he went into the family metal business. In 1936 he joined 605 Squadron, AAF and was commissioned in July.

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On June 12 he set off on a ground-strafing flight. He was attacked by a Bf 109, which he managed to shake off. The German then climbed and attacked a nearby Kittyhawk from below. The pilot baled out and Edmunds circled him protectively but soon decided he was dead. He then went down to attack a column of German vehicles. On his second run, he was hit by ground fire, crash-landed and was captured. Edmunds was handed over to the Italians two days later. He was in Italian PoW camps for a year, moved to Germany in 1943 and ended up in Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 3093). He was liberated on May 2 1945. After leave, Edmunds went on a refresher course to Wittering and was then posted to 9 PDC, Regents Park as an Admin Officer. He declined a Permanent Commission and transferred into the RNZAF. He arrived back in New Zealand on October 22 1946 and was released from the RNZAF soon afterwards.

shot down a Ju 88, which crashed on the beach at Weybourne, Norfolk. At night on May 16 they claimed three enemy aircraft probably destroyed, two Do 17s and a He 111, on June 22 they claimed an enemy aircraft shot down, that may have been the He 111 which went into the sea off Brightstone Bay, Isle of Wight. Their final victory came on July 4 1941, a He 111 probably destroyed on a night patrol. In August 1941 Edmiston went to Russia with 81 Squadron. The Hurricanes flew off the carrier HMS Argus on September 1 and landed at Vaenga airfield, to help in the defence of Murmansk. On September 26 Edmiston destroyed two Bf 109s. The squadron left Russia on November 29 1941, leaving their aircraft behind for use by the Russians. Edmiston went on to Control duties on March 21 1942 and was a Sector Controller at North Weald and Hornchurch. His final posting was to the Air Staff at HQ Fighter Command. He was released from the RAF in 1946 and returned to Lloyd’s, as a Broker. He was a member of the Chelsea Borough Council and a City Magistrate for twenty years. Edmiston was Honorary National Treasurer of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, a post he held for twenty-five years, up to his retirement in 1983. He died in 1989.

APO 8.10.39 PO 20.5.40 FO 20.5.41 FL 20.5.42

HILARY PATRICK MICHAEL EDRIDGE 41836

FO

Pilot

British

222 Squadron

PO 7.9.40 FO 7.9.41 FL 7.9.42 Edridge joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training on January 23 1939, as a pupil pilot.

NORMAN DOUGLAS EDMOND 41564

FO

Pilot

Canadian

615 Squadron With training completed, he possibly joined 222 Squadron at Duxford on October 21 1939. Over Dunkirk on June 1 1940 he probably destroyed a Bf 110. On August 30 Edridge was shot down by Bf 109s. He baled out, with burns to the face, and landed at Broome Park. His Spitfire, K 9826, crashed and burned out at Marley, near Barham, Kent. Edridge’s next operational sortie was not made until September 21. He made a forced-landing at Tillingham Hall, near Horndon on October 15, due to engine failure. He shared in destroying a Bf 110 on the 20th. After his aircraft was severely damaged in combat with Bf 109s on October 30 1940, Edridge crashed in flames, attempting to land at Longwood Farm, Ewhurst. He was rescued from the wreckage but died of his injuries. Edridge was 21. He is buried in the Roman Catholic Cemetery, Perrymead, Widcombe, Bath.

Born in Winnipeg and brought up in Calgary, Edmond joined the RAF on a short service commission in 1938. He began his flying training on October 31 1938, as a pupil pilot. With training completed, he joined 614 Squadron at Odiham from 22 Group there on October 8 1939. On June 8 1940 the squadron moved to Grangemouth. He was posted away from 614 to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 5 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick on September 24. Edmond joined 242 Squadron at Duxford on November 22. The squadron took off for a patrol over the Channel on April 20 1941. Close to North Foreland the CO, Squadron Leader W P F Treacy, sighted some aircraft and began a steep turn towards them. In so doing he collided with his No 2, Edmond. Both Hurricanes went down into the sea. Edmond’s body was recovered and he is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, North Weald Bassett, Treacy was never found. APO 14.1.39 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40

ERIC RALPH EDMUNDS 42744

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

APO 1.4.39 PO 21.10.39 FO 21.10.40

245 and 615 Squadrons

ERIC FRANK EDSALL

Born in Wellington on March 5 1920, Edmunds went to Palmerston North Boys’ High School.

81368

PO

Pilot

British

54 and 222 Squadrons

Edsall was born in Wimbledon, Surrey on June 16 1918. He worked as a caterer before the war. He joined the RAFVR about January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742783). Called up on September 1, he completed his elementary flying training and moved on to 9 FTS, Peterborough, where he was on No 17 Course, from March 6 to June 29 1940.

In April 1939 Edmunds sailed for the UK in the RMS Rimutaka, accepted provisionally for an RAF short service commission. He began his ab initio flying at 19 E&RFTS, Gatwick on August 8 1939, as a pupil pilot, and later went to 18 EFTS, Fair Oaks. After two weeks at 3 ITW, Hastings, he was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney for further training. Edmunds was on No 30 Course, which began on October 23 1939. He was transferred from No 30 to No 31 Course. In February 1940 he went to Porthcawl for a high-dive bombing and gunnery course on Hawker Harts. Edmunds completed No 31 Course on May 19 1940 and he joined 245 Squadron at Drem next day. He served with it until early October, when he was posted to 615 Squadron at Prestwick. The squadron went south to Northolt on October 9 and three days later Edmunds was flying as weaver, when he was attacked by a Bf 109. With his engine damaged by a cannon shell, he made a forced-landing at Chiddingfold. On October 29, having been separated from the squadron in an earlier action, Edmunds met three Bf 109s at 29000 feet over the Channel, mid-way between England and France. A cannon shell exploded inside his cockpit, severely wounding him and causing him to be drenched in hot coolant fluid. As the Hurricane, V 6785, went down towards the English coast, he lost consciousness but came to in time to make a crash-landing in the Romney Marsh area. Edmunds was taken to Shorncliffe Field Dressing Station, with a fractured skull and other head injuries, shell fragments in the lungs, back, head and legs and also a bullet in the right leg, which he believed came from a Bf 109 firing at him whilst he was unconscious. Edmunds did not rejoin 615 but in February 1941 he went to 258 Squadron at Jurby, recently reformed and with a large number of New Zealand pilots. He was posted away to CFS, Upavon in April for an instructors’ course, after which he went to 8 FTS, Montrose to instruct. At the end of July 1941 Edmunds sailed for South Africa, where he instructed at 24 and 22 Air Schools until posted to the Middle East in March 1942. He joined 213 Squadron in the Western Desert.

He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 6 and was commissioned next day. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on July 27. Edsall made his first flight with the squadron on August 1. He made a further seventeen training flights between August 2 and 7. The squadron moved south to Hornchurch on the 8th and Edsall became operational on the 10th. Edsall’s Spitfire, N 3160, was damaged by a Bf 109 on the 12th, whilst he was carrying out a front gun exercise on a ditched enemy pilot in mid-Channel, and he made a forcedlanding near Dartford. On August 18 Edsall claimed a Bf 110 destroyed, on the 24th a Bf 109, on the 26th he probably destroyed another and on the 30th he shared a Do 215. On the 31st Edsall was pilot of one of three Spitfires caught in a bombing attack as they were taking off from Hornchurch. Edsall’s aircraft finished the right way up and he managed to extricate himself but his legs were so badly injured that he could not walk. He crawled over to Alan Deere’s Spitfire, which was upside down, with Deere suspended by his harness straps. Edsall wrenched off the cockpit door and freed Deere, who then helped his rescuer to Sick Quarters. Fit again, Edsall was posted on September 19 to 222 Squadron, also at Hornchurch. The next day his aircraft was badly damaged in a surprise attack by Bf 109s over the Thames Estuary and he crashed through the perimeter fence on landing. He destroyed a Bf 109 and probably a second on September 30. On October 25 Edsall probably destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 27th, in combat with Bf 109s, Edsall ran out of fuel and made a crash-landing at Pattenden’s Farm, Battle Road, Hailsham, after crashing through high tension cables. He was badly injured and admitted to Hellingly Hospital. Edsall returned to operations with 602 Squadron. On January 1 1942 he shared two He 114s, biplane floatplanes, off Le Tréport. He was awarded the DFC (16.1.42).

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He joined 234 Squadron at St Eval on September 18 1940. He claimed a Ju 88 destroyed off the Cornish coast on November 29 and a Bf 110 destroyed in the Portsmouth area on the 30th. He was posted away to CFS, Upavon on December 14 1940, for an instructor’s course. Later with 19 Squadron, Edwards was awarded the DFC (22.9.42), having then destroyed at least two enemy aircraft, damaged several more and participated with distinction in the combined operations at Dieppe on August 19 1942. Edwards went on to serve with 59 OTU and 587 Squadron. Edwards was released in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant.

He later went to 261 Squadron in Ceylon. On April 9 1942 Edsall was unable to take part in an interception of Japanese naval aircraft raiding Trincomalee airfield, when his aircraft was commandeered by the Airfield Commander. Edsall managed to rescue the pilot of a Hurricane, that had made a crash-landing on the airfield and was being strafed by Zero fighters. He then tried to reach a fuel bowser, which was under attack, and drive it to safety. Edsall was hit in the back by one of the Zeros and was mortally wounded. He died in hospital on April 12 1942. Edsall was 24. He is buried in Trincomalee War Cemetery, Sri Lanka. PO 6.7.40 FO 6.7.41

A J EDWARDS 561233

AC

Radar Operator

British

604 Squadron

PO 30.4.40 FO 30.4.41 FL 30.4.42

Edwards was on 604 by June 30 1940. He made one operational sortie with the squadron on July 31, flying with Flight Lieutenant J Cunningham. No further service details traced.

KENNETH CHARLES EDWARDS 84680

PO

Air Gunner

AC 1

Radar Operator

British

29 Squadron

Edwards joined the RAFVR, as an Aircrafthand, about December 1939 and after some training, he served as a radar operator with 29 Squadron. He flew only one operational sortie in the Battle of Britain, on August 3 1940. No further service details traced.

Commissioned in August 1940, Edwards served with 600 until January 1941, when he was posted to 150 Squadron at Newton. Still with 150 Squadron, then based at Snaith, Edwards was in Wellington, R 1495, on an operation to Hamburg on the night of July 16/17 1941. It was shot down over Germany. He was the sole survivor of his crew and was captured. At some time Edwards was in Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan and Belaria (PoW No 3645). Freed in May 1945, he was released from the RAF in August.

HAROLD HARDING EDWARDS 128104

Sgt

Observer

British

600 Squadron

Edwards was born at Sidcup on November 15 1910 and educated at Brockley Road School. He joined 600 Squadron, AAF in early 1936, as an Aircrafthand (800408), and began gunnery training in April. Promoted to Sergeant in 1939 he was called up on August 24 1940.

FREDERICK EDWARDS 910834

British

248 Squadron

Edwards joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (745930). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 248 Squadron in May 1940. He was posted to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth on May 31 and rejoined 248 from there on June 25 1940.

PO 19.8.40 FO 8.8.41 FL 8.8.42 Edwards flew as observer with Flight Lieutenant R E G Morewood, ‘B’ Flight Commander. In April 1941 he was detached and sent to join 404 (RCAF) Squadron, then being formed at Thorney Island. Commissioned in May 1942, Edwards was posted to an ASR Squadron, after which he went to Blackpool, to instruct on navigation for air-sea rescue. He requested pilot training, was accepted and at the end of the war he was in the Bahamas on Flying Fortresses. Edwards was released in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 12.5.42 FO 12.11.42

MALCOLM FINNEY EDWARDS 745861

PO

Pilot

FL 12.5.44

Canadian

Pilot

British

247 Squadron

Edwards was born in Poole on August 4 1917. He attended agricultural college and assisted on the family farm of his wife at Churchill, Somerset. He joined the RAFVR on April 8 1939 and began his training at Whitchurch. In August 1940 he was posted to 609 Squadron, but spent only eight days with the squadron before he joined 247 Squadron at Roborough on September 1 1940. He flew his first operational sortie on the 8th, a patrol with Sergeant R I Fowler. He flew two further sorties on September 14 and 15. Edwards was posted to St Eval as non-effective sick on November 2 and to 9 SFTS, Hullavington on November 30. Edwards later served at various units including 57 and 55 OTUs. On October 9 1943 he was posted to 3 Squadron, flying Typhoons from Manston. On March 7 1944 his section was bounced by Bf 109s and Edwards, his aircraft badly damaged, crash landed at Manston. The squadron re-equipped with Tempests and began operating from the Newchurch advanced landing ground on Romney Marsh. Edwards was credited with seven V1 flying bombs destroyed and five shared. He spent some time in the RAF Hospital, Halton, after being injured while helping with the harvest at Newchurch. On October 2 1944 Edwards was posted to 587 Squadron, on target towing duties. He was posted back to 3 Squadron on December 6. On the morning of December 29 Flight Lieutenant Edwards was in one of four Tempests taking part in an armed reconnaissance north of Rheine, Germany. The Tempests were attacked by 20 plus Bf 109s and FW 190s. Flight Lieutenant Edwards was flying Tempest JF-V (EJ 803), which was shot down by a Bf 109, falling next to a railway line just outside Spelle at 11.30 am. Edwards was killed.His body was taken for burial by local people in the Catholic churchyard where it remained until May 20 1947. On this date a British burial unit reinterred him at the Reichswald Forest War Cemetery. On the sortie on which Edwards was killed, his close friend Flying Officer Kenneth Slade-Betts, DFC was also lost.

HARRY DAVIES EDWARDS 41837

Sgt

92 Squadron

Edwards, of Winnipeg, joined the RAF on January 23 1939 on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training, as a pupil pilot. He moved to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on April 1, for a short induction course, after which he went to 13 FTS, Drem. He was on No 1 Course, which ran from April 15 to October 21 1939. With his training completed, he joined 92 Squadron at Tangmere on October 22. Edwards was in action over France and Dunkirk in May 1940. On the 23rd he claimed a Ju 88 destroyed and probably two Bf 109s and a Bf 110, on the 24th he got another probable Bf 109 and on June 2 he claimed a He 111 destroyed. On July 4 Edwards shared in the destruction of a He 111. He was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 109s on September 11 1940. His Spitfire, P 9464, crashed into a wood at Evegate Manor Farm, Smeeth. The wreck was not discovered until October 7. Edwards was 24. He is buried in Folkestone New Cemetery, Kent. APO 1.4.39 PO 21.10.39

IVOR HERBERT EDWARDS 78978

PO

Pilot

British

ROBERT LESLEY EDWARDS

234 Squadron

C 903 Edwards joined the RAFVR about April 1937 as an Airman u/t Pilot (740129). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and was commissioned. He served with No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum before going to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940, to convert to Spitfires.

FO

Pilot

Canadian

1 (RCAF) Squadron

Edwards, from Halifax, Nova Scotia, arrived in the UK on June 20 1940. He joined No 1 (RCAF) Squadron in early July and was detached to RAF, Uxbridge on the 5th, for a short R/T course.

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joined 602 Squadron at Westhampnett on September 8 1940. He claimed a Do 17 destroyed on the 15th and probably destroyed a He 111 on the 26th. Edy was awarded the DFC (5.11.40) for his services with 613 Squadron, with the AASF in France. He was shot down by Bf 109s near Folkestone on December 12 1940 and crash-landed at Shorncliffe, unhurt, in Spitfire X 4658. Edy was posted to 315 (Polish) Squadron, when it was formed at Acklington on January 21st 1941. He moved to 457 (RAAF) Squadron, when it was formed at Baginton on June 16 1941. He was killed on December 5 1941, when his aircraft caught fire. He baled out but was too low and his parachute failed to open. Edy was 25. He is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Andreas, Isle of Man.

He was shot down by return fire from a Do 17 attacking Debden on August 26 1940. In Hurricane P 3874, he crashed at The Hydes, Little Bardfield, Essex and was killed. He is buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery.

ROBERT SYDNEY JAMES EDWARDS 33242

FL

Pilot

Irish

56 Squadron

Born on February 12 1916, Edwards went to Brentwood School. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1935, as a Flight Cadet, and graduated in December 1936, with a Permanent Commission.

APO 14.1.39 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40 He joined 79 Squadron on March 22 1937. He was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on March 7 1939 and appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander. Edwards relinquished this post and his acting rank on June 28 1939. He was re-appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on September 12 1939 and was again promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on December 8, with effect from September 11. On February 4 1940 Edwards went on attachment to RAF Northolt for an Air Fighting course. He was with 79 Squadron when it was sent to France on May 10. He was shot down on the 11th, in action against He 111s. He baled out, with burns to one arm. The squadron returned to Biggin Hill from France on May 20. Edwards, was posted from 79 Squadron to join the Admin Staff at HQ 11 Group on May 18 and reported there for duty on the 23rd. He returned to operations on September 10 1940, then joining 56 Squadron at Boscombe Down, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. He was shot down on September 30, in combat with Do 215s and Bf 110s over Portland, in Hurricane P 3088. He is believed to have baled out and presumably was wounded or injured because Pilot Officer FW Higginson took temporary command of ‘B’ Flight on October 1. In 1941 Edwards moved to Bomber Command and was awarded the DFC (21.11.41), serving with 9 Squadron at Honington. Edwards retired from the RAF on February 12 1963, as a Wing Commander. He died on May 2 1974.

HENRY EELES 26177

Pilot

British

46 Squadron

Born in 1915, Edworthy was educated at Teignmouth Secondary School. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice, in September 1930 and passed out in August 1933, as a Fitter, Aero Engines. In the 1930s Edworthy served in Africa including Egypt. He later applied for and was selected for pilot training and in early 1940 he was probably with 263 Squadron at Filton. In early May 1940 he was with 46 Squadron at Digby. On May 9 the squadron embarked on the carrier HMS Glorious, bound for Norway. She sailed for Harstad but the airfield there was found to be unusable and the carrier retuned to Scapa Flow. It sailed again a few days later and on May 26 ten Hurricanes, one piloted by Edworthy, flew off to Skaanland, where two crashed on landing because of soft ground. The other eight flew on to Bardufoss, to fly patrols, covering the Narvik area. On June 7 the squadron flew its still-serviceable aircraft back on to the Glorious. Edworthy was among those evacuated by sea by the Royal Navy on June 8. He rejoined 46 Squadron when it came together and was reformed at Digby on June 15 1940. Edworthy shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on July 22, thirty miles off Skegness in the early morning. He failed to return from a combat over the Essex coast on September 3 1940. His Hurricane, P 3604, is believed to be that which crashed at Redwood Creek, River Crouch. He was reported ‘Missing’. Edworthy is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 13, and by a memorial plaque at Teignmouth College.

FO

Pilot

Canadian

263 Squadron

PO 20.12.30 FO 20.6.32 FL 1.4.36 SL 1.12.38 WC 1.3.41 GC 1.1.44 GC 1.1.49 AC 1.5.55

EDWARD JAMES EGAN 742787

Sgt

Pilot

British

600, 615 and 501 Squadrons

Egan, of East Dulwich, London, was born in Farningham, Kent. After leaving school, he became an apprentice with the London Passenger Transport Board. The company had a flying club and Egan went solo when he was 17. He joined the RAFVR about January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed training at 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on No 6 Course, which ran from December 29 1939 to June 10 1940. Egan then went to 5 OTU, Aston Down. After he had converted to Blenheims, Egan was posted to 600 Squadron at Manston on the 24th. He was detached to 2 School of Army Co-operation, Andover on July 11, for night-flying training. He rejoined 600 on July 16. He moved to 615 Squadron at Prestwick on August 27 and then to 501 Squadron at Kenley on September 3. When he arrived at the squadron he had never flown a singleengine fighter and the CO sent him away to 5 OTU, where he converted to Hurricanes. Egan rejoined 501, underwent further training and was certainly operational by September 15, when he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed. He was killed on the 17th, shot down in flames in a surprise attack by a Bf 109 over Ashford. His Hurricane, P 3820, crashed in Daniels Wood, Tuesnoad Farm, Bethersden. Egan was reported ‘Missing’. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 14. He was 19 years old. The crash site was excavated on September 11 1976. The pilot’s remains could not be identified and he was buried as ‘an unknown airman’ in Brookwood Military Cemetery, with full military honours. When the site was investigated again in November 1978, evidence was found to prove that it was Egan’s aircraft. The grave marker at Brookwood was changed to his name.

ALLEN LAIRD EDY 41566

British

On October 1 1932 he was posted to HQ RAF Middle East, as PA to the AOC. Eeles returned to the UK in early 1934 and on February 11 he went to the Air Armament School at Eastchurch for a course. He joined the staff of 5 FTS, Sealand on January 19 1935, on armament duties. Eeles was appointed PA to the Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Cyril Newall on September 1 1937. He was attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge from Air Ministry on June 24 1940, for a refresher course and conversion to Hurricanes. He took command of 263 Squadron on July 6, flying the squadron’s first Whirlwind from Martlesham Heath to Grangemouth on that day. 263 initially had three of these aircraft and fourteen Hurricanes. During the Battle of Britain the squadron flew some operational sorties with its Hurricanes. Eeles is not shown in the squadron ORB as having flown operationally during the Battle of Britain period but correspondence between him and the Air Ministry in 1960 confirmed his eligibility for the Battle of Britain clasp. He is reported as having declined it because his squadron did not operate in southern England but only from Grangemouth and later Drem. No precise details are known of Eeles’ postings after he was posted from 263 on December 16 1940, to become Station Commander at Drem. He received two Mentions in Despatches, the CBE (1943) and the CB (1956). Eeles remained in the RAF after the war and was AOC and Commandant of RAF College, Cranwell from August 25 1952. He retired from the RAF on January 29 1959, as an Air Commodore. He died in 1992.

GERALD HENRY EDWORTHY Sgt

Pilot

Eeles was born on May 12 1910 and was educated at Harrow School. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1929, as a Flight Cadet. After graduating in December 1930, with a Permanent Commission, Eeles joined 41 Squadron at Northolt.

PO 19.12.36 FO 19.6.38 FL 19.6.40 SL 1.9.41 WC 1.7.53

564606

SL

602 Squadron

Edy, from Winnepeg, joined the RAF on October 31 1938 on a short service commission and began his elementary flying, as a pupil pilot. On January 14 1939 Edy arrived at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, for a short induction course, after which he went to 5 FTS, Sealand for No 39 Course, which ran from January 30 to September 2 1939. Edy was attached to 613 Squadron at Odiham from 22 Group Pool on October 6 1939. On November 7 he joined 613. When the call came in August 1940 for more pilots for Fighter Command, Edy volunteered and he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 27, to convert to Spitfires. He afterwards

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WILLIAM THORPE EIBY 391347

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

53 OTU, Kirton-in-Lindsey on January 20 1944, as an instructor, and went to HQ 12 Group, Watnall on January 1 1945, as a staff officer. Ekins made his last flight in a Spitfire on August 25 1945. He was made an MBE (1.1.46), released from the RAF in January 1946, as a Squadron Leader and rejoined the family surveying business. He died in 1993.

245 Squadron

Eiby was born in Christchurch on November 23 1914. He obtained his ‘A’ license at Masterton and joined the Civil Reserve of Pilots. After the outbreak of war, the RNZAF made up courses of short service commission candidates and Civil Reserve pilots. Eiby reported to the Ground Training School at Weraroa on November 20 1939.

PO 2.4.41 FO 17.11.41 FL 20.8.42

DOUGLAS WILLIAM ELCOME 740713

He moved to 2 EFTS, New Plymouth on December 18 and was posted to 2 FTS, Woodbourne on March 8 1940. Eiby was awarded his flying badge on May 14 and commissioned in late June. He sailed for the UK in the RMS Rangitane on July 12 and arrived there on August 27. Eiby was at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge until September 10, when he was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 245 Squadron at Aldergrove on the 30th. He moved to 73 Squadron on November 6 1940 and soon afterwards he embarked on the carrier HMS Furious for the Middle East. The squadron flew off at Takoradi on the 29th and then flew in easy stages to Heliopolis, via Lagos, Accra, Kano, Maiduguri, Khartoum, Wadi Halfa and Abu Sueir. During December the pilots were attached to 274 Squadron in the Western Desert. On March 5 1941 Eiby destroyed an enemy aircraft. He was posted away to No 1 ADU, Cairo in early May and returned to 73 Squadron on December 1. Eiby was shot down near Tobruk on February 13 1942 by Oberfeldwebel Schulz of JG 27. He made a forced-landing in the desert, escaping with a few shell splinter scratches. On February 28 1942 Eiby left 73 and returned to No 1 ADU. Before he was posted back to New Zealand on January 19 1943, he had made sixteen ferry flights across Africa, each averaging four days, starting at Takoradi and ending at Cairo. This was an easier way to get aircraft to the Western Desert than through the Mediterranean or round the Cape, avoiding the risk of sinkings at sea. The aircraft generally flew in groups of six or eight, this having been found to be the best number as far as refuelling and navigational arrangements were concerned. Eiby reached New Zealand in early March 1943. He did a series of staff jobs until November 8, when he was posted to the Catalina Conversion Flight at Lauthia Bay, Fiji. He joined 6 (Flying Boat) Squadron at Halavo Bay, Florida Island on December 23 1943. Eiby returned to New Zealand in early July 1944 and in mid-December he joined 40 (Transport) Squadron at Whenuapai, flying C 47s. By 1946 the squadron was on civil work and service operations. Eiby was released from the RNZAF on February 12 1947 and joined the National Airways Corporation when it was formed later in the year. He retired in 1970.

Pilot

British

British

602 Squadron

He apparently joined 602 Squadron at Drem on the 21st, directly from 14 FTS. On August 13 1940 602 moved south to Westhampnett. Elcome claimed a Bf 109 destroyed over Dungeness on the 31st. He landed at Ford following this action with a damaged glycol tank. On September 7 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 in the Biggin Hill area. On the 10th he crashed on to Felpham golf course during night-flying practice, wrecking Spitfire L 1040. Elcome failed to return from a routine patrol on October 26, in Spitfire R 6839. He was reported ‘Missing’, aged 21. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 14.

FREDERICK WILLIAM ELEY 745677

Sgt

Pilot

British

74 Squadron

Eley was born in 1919. After his father’s dairy farming business failed and his mother died, he lived with relatives in the village of Aston, Cheshire. He attended Nantwich and Acton Grammar School. On leaving, he worked for Lloyd’s Bank at Church Stretton, Shropshire and Burslem in the Potteries. Eley joined the RAFVR about April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He did his pre-war elementary flying at 28 E&RFTS, Meir. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 14 Course, which ran from September 9 1939 to January 27 1940. Eley joined 74 Squadron at Rochford on February 10 1940, direct from 10 FTS. He was detached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on March 15, for conversion to Spitfires. The date of his rejoining 74 Squadron is not known. Eley was killed on July 31 1940, when he was shot down in flames off Folkestone Pier. Troops, sailors and boatmen pulled the Spitfire, P 9398, ashore and Eley’s body was recovered. Eley is buried in a family grave at St Margaret’s churchyard, Wrenbury-cum-Frith, Cheshire, with an incorrect date of death on the headstone. His name is on a memorial stained-glass window in the church and in a book of remembrance. He was 21.

VICTOR HOWARD EKINS Sgt

Pilot

Elcome, of Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, joined the RAFVR about September 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his flying training at 14 FTS, Cranfield on No 5 Course, which ran from February 12 to June 15 1940.

PO 28.6.40 FO 28.6.41 FL 28.6.42

63073

Sgt

111 and 501 Squadrons

Born at St Neots in 1914, Ekins qualified as a chartered surveyor before the war. He joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745414) and began weekend flying training at 16 E&RFTS, Shoreham. Called up on September 1, Ekins went to 3 ITW, Hastings, then to 4 EFTS, Brough, to complete his ab initio training. He went on to 8 FTS, Montrose on No 17 Course, from March 6 to June 26 1940. With training completed, Ekins was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 1, converted to Hurricanes and joined 111 Squadron at Croydon on the 15th. He was detached to the Kenley Sector Training Flight on the 17th, for further training. Two weeks later he returned to Croydon to rejoin the

FRANK RICHARD CHARLES ELGER 42114

PO

Pilot

British

248 Squadron

Elger joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training on March 13 1939.

squadron. On September 2 Ekins damaged a Do 17 and on the 5th he claimed a Bf 109 as probably destroyed. Three days later 111 went north to Drem but Ekins was posted back to Kenley on the 21st, to join 501 Squadron. He was shot down in combat by a Bf 110 over Godstone on the 27th, in Hurricane V 6672. He baled out, wounded, at 19000 feet, landed in woods on a Canadian Ambulance Unit. He went to Sevenoaks Hospital. Ekins returned to the squadron, then at Filton, on November 26 1940. He was commissioned in April 1941 and remained with 501, as a Flight Commander, until April 1942, when he was posted to HQ 10 Group, Box, as Squadron Leader Ops. On May 19 1942 Ekins went to 286 Squadron at Colerne on anti aircraft co-operation duties. He was awarded the DFC (23.6.42), posted as a supernumerary to 66 Squadron at Zeals on September 29 and then given command of 19 Squadron at Perranporth on November 27 1942. The squadron destroyed its 100th enemy aircraft on November 11 1943 and Ekins made his last operational flight on December 5, escorting Fortresses to Lille. He was posted to

He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on May 13 for a short induction course, after which he was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand. He was on No 40 Course, which ran from May 30 to November 5 1939. With training completed, Elger was posted on November 6 1939 to 248 Squadron, reforming at Hendon for Fighter Command. In February 1940 248 moved to Coastal Command but from mid-May onwards it was seconded back to Fighter Command at various periods during the Battle of Britain, to take on long-range fighter duties. Elger went on attachment to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton. The date of his rejoining 248 is not known. On November 28 1940 Elger was posted to 55 OTU, Aston Down, presumably as an instructor.

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On April 10 1941 Elkington was posted to 55 OTU at Usworth, as an instructor. He joined 601 Squadron in late May at Manston. In late July he joined 134 Squadron, then reforming at Leconfield for service in Russia. The squadron embarked on HMS Argus on August 12 and on September 7 it flew off to the airfield at Vaenga, near Murmansk. During September and early October 134 took part in bomber escorts and airfield defence. In mid-October it began training Russian pilots on Hurricanes which were handed over at the end of the month. Whilst in Russia Elkington shared in the destruction of a Ju 88. In mid-November 1941 the squadron pilots began the journey home, making their way in three minesweepers to Archangel, sailing from there in HMS Berwick on December 1. Elkington himself returned in the MV Empire Baffin, escorting injured pilot, Vic Berg. 134 reformed at Eglinton in January 1942. Elkington joined the MSFU at Speke in April, remaining with it until August, when he rejoined No 1 Squadron then at Acklington. He was posted to 539 Squadron there in September, a Turbinlite Havoc unit. When 539 was disbanded on January 25 1943, Elkington was posted to the newlyformed 197 Squadron at Drem, equipped with Typhoons. He was warned for overseas in September 1943 and in December joined 67 Squadron at Alipore, India. He was appointed CO of the Tactical Weapons Development Unit at Ranchi and was later CO of 22 Armament Practice Camp. Elkington returned to the UK on October 27 1946. He had a long post-war career in the RAF and retired on December 23 1975, as a Wing Commander. In 2014 Elkington received the Ushakov Medal from the Russian Ambassador in London.

Elger was released from the RAF in 1946 and later settled in Canada. He had his own company of marine underwriters in Toronto and became a Canadian citizen. APO 13.5.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41

HUGH WILLIAM ELIOT 42490

PO

Pilot

British

73 Squadron

Eliot, of Bromley, Kent, was born on April 16 1921. He was educated at St Dunstan’s College, Catford and worked for Lloyd’s Bank. He entered the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell on June 28 1939. With his intermediate and advanced training completed, Eliot went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, to convert to Hurricanes. Eliot was posted to 73 Squadron from 6 OTU on April 27 1940. He joined it in France on May 5. On the 11th he damaged a Bf 110, on the 16th he claimed two enemy aircraft destroyed, on June 3 destroyed a Bf 110 and on June 13 he shared two He 111s. He received a Mention in Despatches

PO 14.7.40 F0 14.7.41 FL 14.10.42 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.7.61

(22.7.40). On September 6 Eliot was shot down in combat over the Thames Estuary. He baled out, burned, and was taken to hospital. He rejoined 73 Squadron, then at Castle Camps on September 29 1940. Eliot was posted away to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on October 19, to go to Malta. On October 23 he embarked on the aircraft carrier HMS Argus. He was in the first group of six Hurricanes which flew off on a 400 sea miles flight to Malta on November 17. Eliot joined 261 Squadron at Hal Far. On February 26 1941 he claimed a Ju 87 destroyed and probably another. On May 12 261 was disbanded and Eliot went into a new unit, 185 Squadron, becoming a Flight Commander in July. He was awarded the DFC (26.9.41) and returned to the UK, where he joined 242 Squadron at Valley on September 24. He was rested on October 10 1941. In late 1942 Eliot was posted to 255 Squadron at Honiley, as a Flight Commander. He went to North Africa with the squadron and was given command in August 1943. During the night of September 9/10 he shot down a Me 210 and on January 30/31 1944 a Do 217. Eliot was posted away in February 1944. He returned to operations in late September, to command 256 Squadron at Foggia, Italy. On October 4/5 he destroyed a Ju 52 and two nights later a Do 24. Attacking a bridge in Northern Italy during the night of March 4/5 1945, his Mosquito was shot down by flak and Eliot was killed, as was the Navigator, Flight Lieutenant W T Cox. He is buried in Argenta Gap War Cemetery, Italy. An award of the DSO (23.5.45) was gazetted after his death. Eliot was 23. APO 19.8.39 PO 28.2.40 FO 28.2.41 FL 28.2.42

JOHN LAWRENCE WEMYSS ELLACOMBE 43031

PO

Pilot

British

151 Squadron

Ellacombe was born in Livingstone, Northern Rhodesia on February 28 1920. He went to Diocesan College, Rondebosch, South Africa. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training on September 20 1939. He was on No 46 Course at 2 FTS, Brize Norton from March 25 to July 11 1940. Ellacombe was posted directly to 151 Squadron at North Weald on July 14. Having no experience of the Hurricane, he carried out further training with the North Weald Sector Training Flight until July 31. He was converted to Hurricanes, in the Station Flight Miles Master, by Pilot Officer F B Sutton of 56 Squadron, who was slightly wounded and non-operational. Ellacombe became operational on August 1, on the 15th he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and on the 24th he shot down a He 111 over Hornchurch. On the 30th he made a forcedlanding in his damaged Hurricane, P 3119, near Hunsdon, just before the He 111 he had shot down crashed in the adjoining field. The next day Ellacombe’s aircraft was hit by return fire from a Ju 88 and he baled out as the gravity tank exploded. He was admitted to Southend General Hospital with burns. His Hurricane, P 3312, crashed at Eastwood, Southend. On this day he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged two others. Ellacombe rejoined the squadron on December 25 1940, to await a Medical Board. He stayed with 151 throughout 1941 and in February 1942 he was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant and posted to 253 Squadron at Hibaldstow, as a Flight Commander. Awarded the DFC (7.4.42), Ellacombe probably destroyed a Do 217 during the night of July27/ 28, co-operating with a Turbinlite Havoc of 1459 Flight, flown by Flight Lieutenant C V Winn (q v). During the Dieppe Raid on August 19 1942, Ellacombe’s aircraft was hit by flak on a ground attack sortie. He parachuted into the sea and was picked up. In July 1943 Ellacombe rejoined 151 Squadron, then at Colerne. He completed his third operational tour with 487 (RNZAF) Squadron, in 2 Group, and was awarded a Bar to the DFC (29.12.44). Ellacombe remained in the RAF after the war, including a tour in Aden, various appointments in Fighter Command from 1949 to 1957 and Officer Commanding, RAF Linton on Ouse in the early 1960s. In 1965 he marched in Sir Winston Churchill’s funeral procession. He was made a CB (1970) and retired on April 16 1973 as an Air Commodore. He became Director of Scientific Services at St Thomas’ Hospital, London in 1973 and was appointed Administrator to the Special Trustees there in 1980. Ellacombe died on May 11 2014.

SL 5.11.43

JOHN FRANCIS DURHAM ELKINGTON (Known from birth as “Tim”) 44184 PO Pilot British 1 Squadron Elkington was born on December 23 1920 in Warwickshire. He was educated at Old Ride Prep School, Bournemouth, Packwood Haugh Prep School, Hockley Heath and Bedford School. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1939, as a Flight Cadet. After the outbreak of war, those cadets, who had not yet started the course, were enlisted in the RAFVR in October 1939 as Airmen u/t Pilots and each given an Airman number. Elkington (905527) carried out his elementary flying training at 9 EFTS, Ansty from October 1939 to April 1940, when he went to RAF College FTS, Cranwell, for intermediate and advanced training. On completion of the course on July 14 Elkington was granted a Permanent Commission and the next day he joined No 1 Squadron at Northolt. He underwent further training with the Northolt Sector Training Flight between July 19 and 26. He made his first operational sortie on July 27. He destroyed a Bf 109 on August 15. On the 16th Elkington was in Flight Sergeant Berry’s section, when the squadron was ordered off to patrol Portsmouth. A large force of German aircraft was met and in the ensuing engagement Elkington’s Hurricane, P 3173, was hit by a cannon shell in the starboard fuel tank and burst into flames. He baled out near the Nab light. Berry followed him and with his slipstream he blew Elkington on to land at West Wittering. Elkington was taken to the Royal West Sussex Hospital at Chichester. His aircraft crashed and burned out at Manor Farm, Chidham. After sick leave, Elkington rejoined No 1 Squadron, then at Wittering, on October 1 1940. He probably destroyed a Ju 88 on the 9th and shared in the destruction of a Do 215 on the 27th.

APO 23.3.40 PO 13.7.40 FO 13.7.41 FL 13.7.42 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.7.49 WC 1.7.55 GC 1.1.61 AC 1.7.68

CYRIL CHARLES ELLERY 78747

PO

Air Gunner

British

264 Squadron

Ellery joined the RAFVR in April 1940, with a commission as a direct-entry Air Gunner. He completed his training and joined 264 Squadron at Duxford on May 29 1940. On June 7 he was flying with Pilot Officer W F Carnaby, in Defiant L 7004, when the engine failed and they baled out. Ellery was injured and admitted to RAF Duxford Sick

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Ellis flew one operational sortie with 64 Squadron, on July 22. There is no further mention of Ellis in the 64 Squadron ORB. He relinquished his commission on February 1 1941 because of ill-health and was released from the RAF.

Quarters. He was later transferred to Littleport Hospital. He rejoined 264 on June 18. Ellery was again flying as gunner with Pilot Officer Carnaby on August 28, when their Defiant, N 1576, returned to base severely damaged by return fire from a He 111 over Dover. Both men were unhurt. Ellery was posted to 150 Squadron at Newton on October 7 1940 but rejoined 264 on November 9. He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Squadron Leader, and died on March 20 1977.

APO 29.4.39 PO 6.11.39

FO 6.11.40

JOHN ELLIS 37850

FL

Pilot

British

610 Squadron

APO 12.4.40 PO 29.5.40 FO 29.5.41 FL 1.6.42 Born in Deal on February 28 1917, Ellis joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training on March 23 1936, as a pupil pilot.

GEORGE JAMES ELLIOTT C 1349

PO

Pilot

Canadian

615 and 607 Squadrons He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on May 18 for a short induction course, after which he was posted to 11 FTS, Wittering on June 2 1936 for intermediate and advanced training. With the course completed, he joined 66 Squadron at Duxford but he soon moved to 213 Squadron when it was reformed at Northolt on March 8 1937. On September 16 1939 Ellis was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant and on the 18th he went to 610 Squadron at Wittering, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. On May 27 1940 he damaged a Bf 110, over Dunkirk on the 29th he destroyed a Bf 109 and on 31st a Bf 110. He destroyed another Bf 109 on June 7 and shared in destroying a He 111 on the 12th. Ellis shared a Do 17 on July 3, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 24th, destroyed two Bf 109s and probably a third on the 25th, destroyed two Bf 109s and probably another on August 12, damaged a Ju 88 on the 16th, destroyed a He 111 on the 18th, shot down a Bf 109 on the 26th and a He 111 on the 27th. Ellis had been promoted to Acting Squadron Leader on July 26 and given command of 610 Squadron. He was awarded the DFC (13.8.40), receiving it from the King on September 3. He destroyed a He 111 at night on March 10 1941. In early May Ellis was posted away to 55 OTU, as an instructor, and was awarded a Bar to the DFC (2.5.41). He went to the Middle East at the end of 1941, served as Wing Commander Flying at 71 OTU, Khartoum and also served with the Desert Air Force. In April 1943 Ellis was appointed to lead the Krendi Wing in Malta. He was reported ‘Missing’ on June 13 1943, when his was one of three Spitfires shot down whilst escorting American B-24s to attack Gerbini airfield in Sicily. He was later reported to be a PoW and was at some time in Stalag Luft 3. He helped plan the Great Escape. (PoW No 1495). Back in the UK in 1945, he took part in the first Battle of Britain flypast in September. Ellis was made an OBE (31.5.56) and a CBE (11.6.60) and retired from the RAF on February 28 1967, as a Group Captain. He died on November 19 2001. An apartment block, built in Wirral, Cheshire in 2006, was named Ellis Court in his honour.

Elliott was commissioned in the RCAF Special Reserve on November 6 1939. He arrived in England on September 8 1940 and joined 112 (RCAF) (Army Co-operation) Squadron, a holding unit. On September 21 Elliott and eight other pilots from the squadron arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. After converting to Hurricanes, Elliott was posted to 615 Squadron at Prestwick on October 5 and moved to 607 Squadron at Tangmere on the 9th. He remained with 607 until February 1941, when he was posted to No 1 (RCAF) Squadron. He was released from the RCAF on June 4 1946, as a Squadron Leader.

ROBERT DEACON ELLIOTT 76311

PO

Pilot

British

72 Squadron

Elliott was born on November 20 1914 at Church Brampton, Northampton. He joined the RAFVR about August 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740582). Called to fulltime service on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 6 FTS, Little Rissington, on No 14 Course, which ran from October 9 to December 9 1939. He was commissioned on the 10th and joined 72 Squadron at Drem on the 16th. Elliott took part in operations over Dunkirk in late May 1940. On August 15 he was at 20,000 feet, when his oxygen supply failed. He blacked out and his Spitfire went into a dive and he did not come round until he was at 1000 feet. On September 4 1940 he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed, on the 6th a Bf 109, on the 9th a Bf 110 and on the 11th a He 111. He was shot down on September 6, in a head-on attack on a Bf 109 over Maidstone and baled out, unhurt. His Spitfire, N 3070, crashed at Wanshurst Green. Posted to a staff job at HQ Fighter Command in October 1941, Elliott was awarded the DFC (17.10.41) and received a Mention in Despatches. He was at RAF Staff College in 1943 and with 84 Group 2nd TAF in 1944. He later commanded a Wing in Cyprus and the Armament Practice Camp on the island. He was made an OBE (1954) and a CB (1967). Elliott was a graduate of the Joint Services Staff College and the RAF College of Air Warfare. He held a number of appointments and commands, including Commandant at Biggin Hill, prior to his retirement on September 27 1968, as an Air Commodore, retaining the rank of Air Vice-Marshal. After his retirement he was known as Deacon-Elliott. He died on June 5 1997. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde during the war.

APO 18.5.36 PO 23.3.37 FO 23.9.38 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41 WC 1.7.44 WC 1.1.51 GC 1.1.59

JOHN HUGH MORTIMER ELLIS 742068

Pilot

British

British

85 Squadron

Posted to 4 ITW, Bexhill on October 10, Ellis moved to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on December 9. On completion of the course, he went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 18 1940 and after converting to Hurricanes he joined 85 Squadron at Debden six days later. Ellis shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on August 6, claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and a Bf 110 damaged on the 18th and destroyed a Do 17 on the 26th. In combat over the Channel on the 29th, his aircraft was set on fire and Ellis glided back before baling out over land, unhurt. His Hurricane, L 1915, crashed at Brigden Hill Farm, Ashburnham. On September 1 1940 Ellis failed to return from a combat with Bf 109s over the Kenley area. His Hurricane, P 2673, crashed at Chelsfield. Although Ellis is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 14, as having no known grave, it is now known that he was buried as ‘an unknown airman’ at St Mary Cray, Orpington. Excavation of his Hurricane in 1992 confirmed his identity and he was re-interred in Brookwood Military Cemetery in October 1993. Ellis was 21 years old. In 2008 the Shoreham Aircraft Museum placed a memorial close to the crash site.

GORDON ERIC ELLIS PO

Pilot

Ellis joined the RAFVR on September 28 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He had finished his elementary flying training at 22 E&RFTS, Cambridge before he was called to full-time service on September 1, 1939.

PO 10.12.39 FO 10.12.40 FL 10.12.41 SL 1.9.45 WC 1.7.48 GC 1.1.57 AC 1.7.62

41993

Sgt

64 Squadron

Born in 1915, Ellis joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training on March 6 1939, as a pupil pilot. In April he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge for a short course. On April 29 1940 Ellis moved to 14 FTS, Kinloss and joined No 1 Course there, which had begun on April 13. His late arrival may have been the result of health problems which he had been experiencing. With the completion of the course on November 6 1939, Ellis joined 264 Squadron at Sutton Bridge direct from 14 FTS on November 9. He was sent to RAF Halton for interview by the Central Medical Board on March 27 1940. Some time later he appears to have joined 229 Squadron at Digby. Ellis was sent on attachment from 229 to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 19. He was there for an unusually long period, possibly for health reasons. However he must have converted to Spitfires whilst there because he joined 64 Squadron at Kenley on July 20 1940. Presumably his attachment from 229 Squadron was terminated.

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RONALD VERNON ELLIS 47416

F/Sgt

Pilot

British

Elsdon damaged a He 115 on October 21 1939 and shared in the destruction of two He 111s on December 7. He received a Mention in Despatches (20.2.40). Over Dunkirk Elsdon probably destroyed a Ju 87 on June 2 1940. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed E of the Farne Islands on August 15, two Bf 109s destroyed in the Ashford area on September 1 and two Bf 110s destroyed on the 4th. On this day Elsdon baled out, when his Spitfire, X 4262, was attacked and set on fire on the way back to Croydon, possibly by a lone Bf 109. On September 7 Elsdon was leading the squadron. They intercepted a formation of Do 17s, escorted by Bf 109s. With not enough height to engage the enemy fighters, 72 went for the bombers, contrary to the usual practice for Spitfires. Leading the attack, Elsdon’s aircraft was hit and he was severely wounded in the left knee and right shoulder. He decided not to bale out and headed for Biggin Hill, could not lower his undercarriage and made a crash-landing. He possibly shot down a Bf 109 in the action. Awarded the DFC (8.10.40), Elsdon was out of action until July 15 1941, when he joined 257 Squadron at Coltishall, as a supernumerary. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on July 24 and was again wounded, but not seriously. On August 25 1941 Elsdon was posted to Kirton-in-Lindsey, to form and command 136 Squadron. It became operational in September and in November left the UK for India. ‘A’ Flight was detached to Singapore and Elsdon and a dozen or so pilots picked up Hurricanes in Cairo and flew them out to Rangoon, to fight the Japanese on the retreat through Burma. The rest of the squadron went to Colombo. The squadron came together again in Calcutta in April 1942. It later saw action in Akyab, Calcutta, Chittagong, Imphal and Arakan. On August 21 he damaged a Japanese aircraft in the Bay of Bengal. Elsdon was made Wing Leader 165 Wing, Dum Dum on September 8 1942. He moved to Alipore on October 10, to lead 293 Wing, took command of 169 Wing, Agartala on February 10 1943, was posted to 185 Wing, Feni on October 8 and returned to 165 Wing, then at Arakan, to command, on November 22 1943. Elsdon was posted to HQ Eastern Air Command, Calcutta on July 12 1944. He returned to the UK in September. His first posting was to Transport Command and on April 13 1945 he became OC RAF Boreham. Elsdon was made an OBE (14.6.45). He held various appointments and commands before his retirement on October 22 1959, as a Wing Commander, retaining the rank of Group Captain. His son, Wing Commander Nigel Elsdon, was killed on January 18 1991, leading RAF Tornados against an Iraqi target in the Gulf. At the time of his death, he was commanding 27 Squadron. He received two Mentions in Despatches. Elsdon died on September 9 2003.

73 Squadron

Ellis was born on February 22 1917 and educated at Chatham Junior Technical School. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice, in January 1933 (566445) and passed out in December 1935, as a Fitter. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. With training completed, Ellis arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 27 1940, to convert to Hurricanes. On June 6 he went to Hendon for onward posting to France and joined 73 Squadron there on the 7th. Ellis piloted the aircraft which carried General de Gaulle to England after the collapse of France. On September 11 Ellis shared in destroying a Bf 110, on the 15th he shared a He 111 and on the 27th he shared another Bf 110. In November 1940, 73 Squadron was posted to the Middle East and sailed in the carrier HMS Furious. They flew off at Takoradi on December 2 and then, in stages, flew overland to Heliopolis. In December the 73 pilots were attached to 274 Squadron in the Western Desert. In early January 1941 the squadron began to operate as a unit on its own account, from Sidi Heneish. Ellis destroyed three Ju 87s over Tobruk on April 14 1941. He was commissioned in October 1941 and posted to 127 Squadron at Hurghada, on ferrying duties. He was awarded the DFM (2.1.42) and he rejoined 73 Squadron in late September 1942, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. In November 1942 Ellis was commanding a detachment at Bu Amoud and from February 1943 he commanded the squadron. In July he returned to the UK. Ellis was later senior test pilot at Vickers Armstrong and was awarded the AFC (1.1.46) for his services there. He was released from the RAF in 1946 but later rejoined. He was a Qualified Instructor, CFS and retired from the RAF on October 11 1966, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. He died on June 3 1988. PO 14.10.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 16.5.43 FL 2.3.50

WALTER THOMAS ELLIS 110331

Sgt

Pilot

British

266 and 92 Squadrons

Born on September 8 1919, Ellis joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754513). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 12 1940, to convert to Spitfires. Ellis joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on the 26th. He moved to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill on September 21. Three days later he made a crash-landing on Higham Marshes, in Spitfire X 4356. His aircraft had a damaged starboard wing and glycol system, sustained in an action over Maidstone with Bf 109s. On October 10 1940 Ellis probably destroyed a Do 17 E of Brighton. On this day he made a crash-landing near Poynings Station, after being damaged by return fire from a Do 17 engaged over Tangmere. His Spitfire, X 4552, was a write-off. On November 5 Ellis made a forced-landing at Gravesend after a combat with Bf 109s. He was unhurt. On December 1 1940 he got a probable Bf 109 and damaged another. Ellis was commissioned in October 1941 and stayed in the RAF. He was awarded the AFC (2.1.50) and retired on June 8 1963, as a Wing Commander.

PO 18.12.37 FO 18.6.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.1.41 WC 1.1.49

PETER ELSE 741332

Air Gunner

British

236 Squadron

Elsdon, of Southend-on-Sea, joined the RAFVR about February 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 236 Squadron at Stradishall in November 1939. On July 18 1940 he was reported ‘Missing’ when his Blenheim, L 6779, captained by Flying Officer C R D Thomas, failed to return from a photo-reconnaissance sortie over Le Havre. The weather was bad and intense anti-aircraft fire was met over Cap de la Hague. It is believed the Blenheim was shot down by Major Schellmann of JG 2. Elsdon was 28. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 14.

THOMAS ARTHUR FRANCIS ELSDON 33308

FL

Pilot

British

British

610 Squadron

He began his flying training at 22 E&RFTS, Cambridge. At that time Else was working there, as an engineer at Marshall’s Flying School, the operators. Called up on September 1 1939, Else went to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on October 7 1939 for advanced training. At the end of the course he was posted direct to 72 Squadron at Church Fenton on December 16 1939. On June 6 1940 Else was attached to 610 Squadron at Gravesend because of a pilot shortage in the squadron. On July 3 he damaged a Do 17, on the 8th damaged another and on the 25th he destroyed a Bf 109 off Folkestone. On August 14 Else damaged a Bf 109 and on the 18th he damaged two Do 17s. On August 26, whilst attacking a Bf 109 over the Dover/Folkestone area, Else was hit from behind and set on fire. As he tried to bale out, he was hit by another burst, which shattered his left forearm. He left the burning aircraft at 20,000 feet and landed on Hawkinge aerodrome, about 200 yards from the point from which he had taken of. He was taken to the Kent and Canterbury Hospital at Canterbury, where his left arm was amputated just above the elbow and he was treated for burns to face and right hand. Else was discharged on medical grounds on April 2 1941 and returned to Marshall’s, as an aircraft inspector at 22 EFTS. On May 24 1944 Else began test flying of Tiger Moths and Auster IIIs after repairs or overhauls, using a special attachment in place of the hand on his artificial left arm. He made his last flight as pilot-in-command on October 1 1946 and let his ‘A’ Licence lapse, to concentrate on engineering. He was made Chief Engineer in April 1974 and retired on April 11 1987. He died in 1991.

HARRY DONALD BUCHANAN ELSDON Sgt

Pilot

Else was born on February 28 1917. He joined the RAFVR on February 23 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot.

PO 15.10.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 15.10.43 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.7.51 WC 1.1.57

743044

Sgt

72 Squadron

Born at Broughty Ferry on January 22 1917, Elsdon went to Unthank College, Norwich. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1936, as a Flight Cadet. He graduated on December 17 1937, was granted a Permanent Commission, and he joined 72 Squadron at Church Fenton.

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CLIFFORD STANLEY EMENY NZ 40204

Sgt

Air Gunner

New Zealander

Emmett served with the squadron in the Battle of Britain. On September 26 1940 he went on attachment, with a Beaufighter, to 600 Squadron at Redhill, for operations. He rejoined 25 on the 30th. He was posted away from 25 Squadron on December 31 1940 to SRT Catterick. On April 5 1941 Emmett went to 54 OTU, Church Fenton, as an instructor. He returned to operations on August 17 1941, joining 68 Squadron at High Ercall, flying Beaufighters. He moved to 409 (RCAF) Squadron at Coleby Grange on April 2 1942. In February 1943 Emmett was posted to 51 OTU, as an instructor. He was briefly at 60 OTU from mid-May 1943 before going as a liaison officer with 416 Squadron (USAAF). On August 10 1943 Emmett went to RAF Nutts Corner, as Squadron Leader Admin. In January 1944 he was posted to 105 (Transport) OTU for a conversion course and then seconded to BOAC on April 26 1944. Emmett was released from the RAF in April 1946 but rejoined in July 1949, retiring on April 30 1958, as a Squadron Leader. He is remembered on a plaque at Dulwich College, unveiled on March 14 2002.

264 Squadron

Emeny was born in Wellington on January 11 1920. He volunteered for aircrew in September 1939 and went to the Ground Training School, Weraroa on January 15 1940. He was posted to the Air Observers’ School, Ohakea on February 9, for a Lewis gunnery course and air experience, and passed out as an LAC. Emeny sailed for the UK in the SS Akaroa on March 23 and arrived on May 9 and was sent to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting. He went to 264 Squadron at Duxford on June 3 1940, for further training. He was awarded his air gunner’s badge on July 26, promoted to Sergeant the next day and served with the squadron until February 1941, when he was posted to join 255 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey. On May 9 Emeny was credited with destroying a German bomber at night over Hull. He also had a probable to his credit, when he left the squadron on June 26 1941, to join 409 (RCAF) Squadron at Digby. After the squadron converted to Beaufighters later in the year, Emeny retrained as a Radio Observer. He was commissioned in late November. In January 1942 he was accepted for pilot training and posted to 13 ITW, Torquay. Emeny did a grading course at 22 EFTS, Cambridge and left for Canada in late May. He carried out his flying training at 37 SFTS, Calgary and 39 SFTS, Swift Current. Qualified as a pilot, he embarked at Halifax for the UK on February 3 1943. After further training at 12(P) AFU, Grantham, Emeny converted to Blenheims at 60 OTU there and then went to High Ercall for a night intruder course on Mosquitos. He was posted to India on November 29 1943 and on January 5 1944 he joined 27 Squadron, Agartala. Emeny went to 45 Squadron at Yelahanka, India on March 20 1944. On November 9 Emeny led six Mosquitos in a dawn raid on the Japanese airfield at Meiktila. After destroying a bomber as it was taking off, his aircraft was hit by ground fire, which set it alight and stopped one engine. He was then attacked by fighters and crashed in flames in the jungle. Trapped by his feet, Emeny protected himself from the fire by covering himself with his parachute and putting on his oxygen mask. He struggled free and was pulled out of the wreckage by his navigator. The two men were betrayed to the Japanese by villagers and taken to Rangoon, where they were separated. Emeny was taken to the University and interrogated at great length and with extreme cruelty, receiving no medical treatment for his burns and injuries. He was eventually put into the prison at Rangoon and at one point was put on trial and sentenced to death. Emeny was freed in early May 1945 and flown out of Calcutta, weighing 6st 10lb. He returned to New Zealand in July and was released from the RNZAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 2000.

APO 18.5.37 PO 15.3.38 FO 15.10.39 FL 15.10.40 SL 1.3.42 SL 1.7.51

CHARLES EDWARD ENGLISH 77791

PO

Pilot

British 85 and 605 Squadrons Born in Newcastle-on-Tyne in 1912, English joined 607 Squadron, AAF, in the mid-1930s, as an Aircrafthand (807209).

When the AAF introduced a scheme to train NCO Pilots in October 1938, English applied and was selected. Called up on August 24 1939, he was posted from 607 Squadron to 7 FTS, Peterborough for No 12 Course, which began on October 7 1939. On completion of the course on March 6 1940, English was commissioned and he joined 610 Squadron at Wittering on March 17. He moved to 213 Squadron, also at Wittering, on May 8. English was sent to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 18 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 85 Squadron at Debden on May 26. On August 18 1940 English damaged a Bf 110, on the 26th he damaged two Do 17s, on the 30th he destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged a He 111 and on September 1 he claimed a Do 17 destroyed. English was posted to 605 Squadron at Croydon on September 12. He was shot down over Westerham on October 7 1940 and killed when his Hurricane, P 3677 crashed and burned out at Park Farm, Brasted. His brother Sergeant-Pilot R H English, died on May 5 1941, aged 23, serving with 3 Squadron. Both brothers are buried in St Andrew’s and Jesmond Cemetery.

PO 29.11.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 29.11.43 PO 7.3.40

GEOFFREY EMMETT 148765

Sgt Observer British

PHILIP STEPHEN BADDESLEY ENSOR

236 Squadron

41003 Emmett joined the RAFVR on May 5 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (747941). Called up at the outbreak of war, he went to 3 ITW, Hastings on November 10 1939 and moved to 4 AONS, Coventry on January 1 1940. He was posted to 8 B&GS, Evanton on June 3, went to No 1 (C) OTU at Silloth on July 28 and 236 Squadron at St Eval on August 16.

FL

Pilot

British

British

23 Squadron

He completed his training and at the outbreak of war he was with ‘D’ Flight of No 2 AACU at Eastchurch. Ensor joined 229 Squadron at Digby from Eastchurch on December 4 1939. Six days later he went to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down, for further training. He rejoined 229 on January 12 1940 at Digby. Ensor joined 610 Squadron at Wittering on January 23.but was with it only until March 1 1940, when he was posted to 23 Squadron. During the night of October 15/16 1940 he destroyed a He 111, on the night of the 18/19 he probably destroyed another He 111 and on the 19/20th he damaged another. Ensor was successful on night intruder operations over French airfields. On January 2/3 1941 he got a probable He 111 and he was awarded the DFC (18.2.41). During the night of March 3/4 he destroyed a He 111 over Merville airfield, on the 11/12th he destroyed a bomber on the ground at Beauvais airfield, on May 3/4 a Ju 88 and probably a He 111 over Le Bourget airfield, on the 4/5th a He 111 probably destroyed and two others damaged over Caen airfield, on the 7/8th a He 111 destroyed in the Arras area and on the 10/11th a Ju 88 destroyed over Beauvais airfield. Ensor was lost on September 8 1941, as a Flight Lieutenant, aged 21. He was flying Havoc l BB 905 of 23 Squadron on an intruder operation to Lannion, Brittany. He is buried in Kerfautras Cemetery, Brest. Flight Sergeant P A Roberts, DFM was also killed.

FL 18.5.45

WILLIAM ALEXANDER COOTE EMMETT 39723

Pilot

Ensor was born in Beckenham, Kent in 1920 and educated at Bradfield College. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his flying training on June 27 1938, as pupil pilot.

Emmett was posted to ferry duties in Canada on February 2 1941. He returned to the UK and joined 140 Squadron at Hendon on August 27 1941. Promoted to Warrant Officer on October 1 1942, Emmett was commissioned in May 1943. He remained with 140 until September 1944, when he was posted to HQ 34 Group, based on the Continent, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. Emmett was with the Group until it returned to the UK on March 19 1945. He went to HQ 85 Group at Ghent on September 21 1945 and finally to 5352 Airfield Construction Wing at Lübeck. He was released on November 23 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. Emmett received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.46) and was awarded the C de G (Fr) (5.6.46) for his services in taking photographs of German troop concentrations during the campaign in Normandy. He died in 1990. PO 18.5.43 FO 18.11.43

FO

25 Squadron

Born on July 7 1916 in London, Emmett was educated at Dulwich College. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training on March 15 1937, as a pupil pilot at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley. He was posted to 2 FTS, Digby on June 5 and with training completed, he joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge on January 1 1938.

APO 28.8.38 PO 27.6.39 FO 3.9.40

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WILFRED JOHN ETHERINGTON 48899

Sgt

Pilot

British

On September 13, 1940 Evans was posted to 607 Squadron at Tangmere. He was shot down in combat with Bf 109s over Swanage on October 5 and baled out, landing at Broom Farm, near Fareham. Evans went to 257 Squadron at North Weald on October 16 and then to 85 Squadron at Kirton -in-Lindsey on November 18 1940. He damaged a He 111 at night on April 26/27 1941 and on the night of May 10/11 he destroyed a He 111. Evans received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.43). He was killed on May 28 1943, as a Squadron Leader with 25 Squadron. He was carrying out an air test in Mosquito DZ 264 and stalled whilst making a single engined approach at Church Fenton. Evans is buried St Andrew’s churchyard, Bebington, Cheshire.

17 Squadron

Etherington was born in Bromley, Kent in 1911. After losing his job when the company he worked for failed in the depression, he joined the RAF on December 15 1931, as an Aircrafthand (515486). He took part in the Royal Tournament in 1932, as a member of the display team. He was later posted to 111 Squadron at Hornchurch, on general ground duties. Determined to make progress, he went on to an equipment course at Cranwell, after which he was posted as an ACI Storekeeper to 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill. He later went to 47 Squadron, Khartoum. Whilst there, he applied for pilot training, was selected and was sent to 4 FTS, Abu Sueir for flying training and passed out as a Sergeant-Pilot. Back in the UK, Etherington joined 17 Squadron at Kenley in April 1936. He served with the squadron through the France and Dunkirk periods and for most of the Battle of Britain. On October 6 1940 he was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill, as an instructor on Ansons. In December he went with the unit to Moose Jaw in Canada. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in February 1942, Etherington was posted to Lethbridge, Alberta, to join 133 (RCAF) Squadron, then being formed there. He later went to Bagotville to help form No 1 OTU. In March 1943 Etherington returned to the UK and was posted to 59 OTU, Milfield. In late January 1944 he was sent to RAF Woodvale, as a trainee Ops Officer, a non-flying job. In late 1944 Etherington moved to Ternhill, where he spent a period as unit test pilot with 5(P) AFU. He went to 2 FIS, Montrose in March 1945 for a course, after which he was posted to Cranwell, as an instructor. Etherington was released from the RAF in August 1945, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1994.

APO 19.8.39 PO 1.2.40 FO 1.2.41 FL 1.2.42

GEORGE JOHN EVANS 123995

Pilot

British

235 Squadron

Evans, of Kingston-on-Thames, Surrey, joined the RAFVR about January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 2 FTS, Brize Norton on No 47 Course, which ran from April 28 to August 3 1940.

APO 1.5.42 FO 1.11.42

79178

Pilot

British

FL 1.5.44

PO

Observer British

236 Squadron

Evans joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (751791). Called up on September 1, he was at 4 ITW, Bexhill until November 20 1939, when he was posted to 11 Air Observers’ Navigation School on No 1 Air Observer Course. The course ran from November 20 1939 to March 9 1940, after which Evans was posted to a B&GS, number unknown. He was commissioned in early May 1940 and served as a navigator in Wellingtons of 3 GRU, on mine-sweeping operations. Evans joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island on July 15 and was still with the squadron on November 8 1940. His regular pilot was Pilot Officer A R de L Inniss. Evans went to Canada in early 1941and trained in the US on Boeing B 17s, after which he returned to Canada and did an astro-navigation course. He acted as navigator on the first Hudson aircraft to make the crossing from Gander to Prestwick, an 18 hour flight. Evans was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Flight Lieutenant, and he died in 1984.

DAVID EVANS PO

604 Squadron

HAROLD ARTHUR CHARLES EVANS

With training completed, he went to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth on August 12 and was on No 4 Blenheim course there, after which he joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton in mid-September. He flew his first operational sortie on September 26 1940. Evans was killed on March 23 1941, still with 235, aged 20. Sergeant G S M McLeod was lost at the same time. Both men are remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Evans on Panel 43 and McLeod on Panel 47.

42491

British

This was a formality because Evans was a trained air gunner before the outbreak of war and operated in that capacity, firstly as an LAC and later as a Sergeant. With the advent of AI equipment and the Beaufighter, he retrained as a Radio Observer and was awarded the DFM (4.7.41), having then assisted in the destruction of three enemy aircraft. On July 14 1941 Evans was posted to 54 OTU, Church Fenton, as an instructor, remaining there until January 29 1942, when he went to 1455 Flight at Tangmere. Commissioned in May 1942, Evans joined 96 Squadron on August 17 1942 and was with it until being posted to North Africa in April 1943, to join 153 Squadron. He returned to the UK in October 1943 and was posted to HQ 9 Group for Sector Controller training. He became a Controller at 21 (BD) Wing in April 1944. Evans was released from the RAF on December 17 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 2002.

CECIL ROY EVANS Sgt

Air Gunner

Evans was born in London in August 1918. He joined 604 Squadron, AAF on June 28 1937, as an Aircrafthand (804274). Called up on August 24 1939, he remustered as an Air Gunner in January 1940.

PO 21.2.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 21.2.44

745506

Sgt

615, 607 and 257 Squadrons

Born in Liverpool on November 21 1919, Evans was educated at Oulton High School. He went to work for Duncan Fox and Co and in 1938 he joined the Territorial Army, in the 38th (AA) Battalion of the King’s Regiment. Evans joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty on June 26 1939, as a pupil pilot. On January 31 1940 Evans completed his course at FTS and then went to 11 Group Pool at St Athan for further training. However, the arrival of twelve Finnish pilots there resulted in Evans and other pilots being posted away. Evans seems to have joined 56 Squadron at Martlesham Heath, where, presumably, he converted to Hurricanes. On May 13 1940 Evans was posted to 615 Squadron in France. The squadron was withdrawn to Kenley on the 20th, after suffering heavy losses. On May 23 Evans was one of six pilots, who made up the newly-formed ‘G’ Flight, equipped with Gladiators. The Flight was sent immediately to Manston, where it was attached to 604 Squadron for operations. The plan seems to have been unsuccessful and the Flight returned to Kenley on May 30 and was disbanded. On June 8 615 Squadron took off from Hawkinge, to patrol over the Le Tréport/Aumale area of Northern France. It landed at Dreux to refuel. The propeller of Evans’ Hurricane, P3380, was damaged on the aerodrome and he was left behind when the squadron took off. He finally returned to Kenley on June 14, having flown via Jersey and Yatesbury. Evans’ aircraft was damaged on August 15, in combat with Bf 109s off Folkestone and he landed at Hawkinge, unhurt. The next day he damaged a Bf 110 and on the 24th he destroyed a He 111.

PO 5.5.40 FO 5.5.41 FL 5.5.42

WALTER REGINALD EVANS 67607

Sgt

Pilot

British

85 and 249 Squadrons

Evans joined the RAFVR in January 1939 as an Airman u/t Pilot (742820). He began his weekend flying at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble in May and continued it at 10 E&RFTS, Portsmouth in August. Called up on September 2, Evans was posted to 4 ITW at Bexhill and in December he went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton for No 44 Course, which ran from December 11 1939 to May 18 1940. Evans was then posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 85 Squadron at Debden on May 25. He shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on August 6, damaged a Do 17 on the 31st, and claimed a Bf 109 and a Bf 110 destroyed on September 1.

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He completed his training at 11 FTS, Shawbury on No 12 Course, which ran from April 15 to October 23 1939. With training completed he joined 92 Squadron at Tangmere on October 23. Over Dunkirk on June 2 1940, Eyles probably destroyed a He 111. He claimed a He 111 destroyed on September 11 over Dungeness. He was shot down on the 20th by Major Mölders of JG 51. His Spitfire, N 3248, went down into the sea off Dungeness and Eyles was reported ‘Missing’. He was 24. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 14.

Evans was posted to 249 Squadron at North Weald on September 11 and was airborne on a scramble within one hour of arriving. He damaged a Do 17 on September 15. Evans was posted to 55 OTU, Aston Down on December 28 1940, as an instructor. After a course at CFS, Upavon, he instructed at 9 FTS, Hullavington. He was commissioned in June and posted to 71 OTU, Gordon’s Tree, Sudan in October 1941. He spent two months at Air HQ Levant from September 1942, went to 138 MU in Iran, as Liaison Officer and Instructor to the Iranian Air Force. In February 1943 he joined 74 Squadron at Mehrabad, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. After service in the Western Desert, Evans went to South Africa in September 1943, to instruct. He was at CFS, Bloemfontein and 4 EFTS, Benoni until September 1944, when he was posted back to the UK. He instructed at 61 OTU, Rednal until February 1945, was at HQ Fighter Command, Uxbridge until April, did a Staff Navigation Course at the Empire Air Navigation School, Shawbury and then went to HQ 12 Group, Watnall as a Staff Navigation Officer. Evans’ last posting was in the Research Office of Air Traffic Control from January until September 1946, when he was released, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1992.

ANTHONY EYRE 90408

ALFRED DOUGLAS EVERETT Sgt

Observer

GEOFFREY CHARLES EVERITT Air Gunner

British

29 Squadron

Everitt, of Westminster joined the RAFVR about June 1939 as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and was with 29 Squadron at Digby by June 1940 and was still with it in November 1940. He was posted away from the squadron to 6 Beam Approach Training Flight on February 1 1941. He was killed on August 6 1942, as a Flight Sergeant with 207 Squadron, operating in Lancasters from Bottesford, Leicestershire. He failed to return from an operation to Essen. His Lancaster, R 5761, was shot down by a night-fighter flown by Oberleutnant Gerhard Loos of 1/NJG 1. The aircraft crashed at Altforat. Everitt was 25 years old. He is buried in Oden War Cemetery, Netherlands. At some time Everittt was awarded a Military Medal by the Polish authorities.

PETER RAOUL EYLES 560889

Sgt

Pilot

615 Squadron

He was attached to 11 Group Pool on September 18, converted to Hurricanes and he rejoined 615 on the 27th. He was detached to RAF Kenley on October 5. 615 Squadron went to France on November 15 1939 but Eyre did not join it there until February 7 1940. He was in action in May 1940 and claimed two Bf 109s probably destroyed on the 19th. The squadron was withdrawn from France to Kenley on the 21st and was operational again in early June. On the 11th Eyre claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and a Bf 110 damaged, on the 22nd a Bf 110 destroyed and three damaged and on July 20 a Bf 109 destroyed and another damaged. Eyre claimed a Ju 87 destroyed and another shared on August 14, on the 15th he shared a Bf 109, on the 20th he claimed a Do 17 destroyed, on the 26th a Bf 109 destroyed and a Ju 88 and a Bf 109 damaged and on the 28th a Do 17 destroyed, a probable Bf 109 and another damaged. Eyre was awarded the DFC (30.8.40). On October 31 1940 he was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on November 5. On February 28 1941 he took command of the squadron after the CO, Wing Commander Holmwood, was killed when his parachute caught fire and failed to open. In May 1941 Eyre was posted for a rest and he was at HQ 9 Group, Preston until January 1942. He returned to operations when he was appointed to lead the North Weald Wing in early March. He led his first sortie on the 8th, in Spitfire W 3276. Between Gravelines and Dunkirk a lone FW 190 dived through the Wing and shot Eyre down. He crash-landed just S of Mardyck aerodrome and was captured. At some time Eyre was held in Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 4). Freed in early May 1945, he became OC, Fairwood Common. Eyre was killed on February 16 1946 in a flying accident during a practice flight in Tempest NV 787. His engine gave trouble and he decided to land at St Athan as a precaution. On approach the engine cut out and the aircraft struck a large oak tree, killing Eyre instantly. He is buried in St Cennydd’s churchyard, Llangennith, Glamorganshire.

No further service details traced. Everett was released from the RAF as a Warrant Officer and he died in 1953.

Sgt

British

British 235 Squadron

Everett joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer. Called up on September 1, he was on 235 Squadron at Detling by June 20 1940 and was still with it on November 1 1940.

751919

Pilot

Born in Lowestoft, Eyre was educated at Whitgift School, Croydon and was studying Law before the war. He joined 615 Squadron, AAF in 1938 and was mobilised on August 24 1939.

PO 5.6.41 FO 5.6.42 FL 5.6.43

751702

FO

British

92 Squadron

Eyles, of Basingstoke, joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice, in January 1932 and passed out in December 1934. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. Eyles remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot on January 23 1939 and was at E&RFTS until March 31.

PO (AAF) 26.7.38 PO 24.8.39 FO 26.1.40 FL 26.1.41 SL 1.12.41

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F FRANTISEK FAJTL 82544

PO

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

awards. In 2003 President Vaclav Klaus invested him with the Order of the White Lion. Fatjl died on October 4 2006.

310, 1 and 17 Squadrons

PO 2.8.40 FO 27.12.40

Born on August 20 1912 at Donin, Fajtl spent two years in a military academy and was commissioned as a LieutenantPilot in 1935. He was serving in the Czech Air Force when Czechoslovakia was taken over by the Germans on March 15 1939. He was demobilised on the 17th and later went to Poland.

JAN PAWEL FALKOWSKI P 0493

FO

Pilot

Polish

32 Squadron

He was born in Pochulanka, Latvia on June 26 1912. In May 1932 he went to Lwow for a university students’ pilot course. In 1934 he was attached to the PAF Officers’ School and finished his training as a fighter pilot there.

Fajtl and other Czech pilots made their way to France, arriving there in mid-1939 and they joined the only unit open to foreigners, the French Foreign Legion. After the outbreak of war, Fajtl was seconded to l’Armée de l’Air and was commissioned in late 1939. He served in III/7 and III/9 Groupes de Chasse. After the French collapse in June 1940, Fajtl went to North Africa and eventually reached

Commissioned in Autumn 1936, Falkowski served in the Torun Fighter Squadron for two years and was then posted to the Flying School at Deblin, as an aerobatics instuctor. After the fighting in September 1939, Falkowski left Poland, drove to Bucharest, then went via Yugoslavia and Italy to Paris, arriving there on October 9. In late January 1940 he was posted to an instructor’s school in preparation for future training of Polish pilots at Lyon. After the German attack in May, Falkowski was transferred to Cognac airfield, in charge of aerodrome defence. When France collapsed, he left for England on June 23 in the Polish liner Batory. Falkowski went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 25 1940, converted to Hurricanes and joined 32 Squadron at Acklington on October 12. On an evening patrol on January 16 1941, he intercepted and shot down a He 111 returning from a raid on Portsmouth. His aircraft was seriously damaged by return fire and Falkowski baled out and broke his leg in a heavy landing on Hayling Island. He rejoined the squadron at the end of March 1941. On July 29 1941 Falkowski was posted to 315 Squadron at Northolt. He claimed Bf 109s destroyed on August 14, 19 and 21, September 16 and October 24. He destroyed one of the first-seen Fw 190s on September 21. He was awarded the KW (10.9.41) and two Bars (30.10.41). Appointed a Flight Commander on September 22 1941, Falkowski stayed with the squadron into 1942. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (19.2.42) and on June 20 was posted for a course to the Polish Army Staff College in Scotland. He was awarded the DFC (15.11.42). In April 1943 Falkowski was at Polish HQ, London, he went to 316 Squadron at Northolt on May 18 and on July 3 was given command of 303 Squadron, also at Northolt. He claimed FW 190s destroyed on August 22 and September 6 and he probably destroyed another on September 23. Falkowski was posted to HQ 11 Group on November 22 1943, as Polish Liaison Officer. He was awarded a third Bar to the KW (20.12.43). He went to HQ 84 Group on February 15 1944 and moved with it to Normandy on June 20. In late November Falkowski was promoted to lead the Peterhead Wing, which moved to Coltishall on January 30 1945. Escorting bombers attacking V2 sites in Holland on March 9, Falkowski was hit by flak and baled out. He was wounded in the leg by small arms fire as he came down and was captured on landing. He escaped and was hidden by the Dutch Resistance. He eventually met the American Army and was flown back to England, where he rejoined the Wing. Falkowski went to Canada in February 1948. He began farming there but later started a flying school. He died in 2003.

England. At the RAF Czech Depot at Cosford, he was commissioned in the RAFVR and he joined 310 Squadron at Duxford on August 6 1940 but after ten days he was sent to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, to convert to Hurricanes. On September 12 Fajtl joined No 1 Squadron at Wittering and then moved to 17 Squadron at Debden on the 25th. He shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on October 2, shared another on the 24th and damaged another Do 17 on November 13. He was posted to RAF Debden on the 18th as non-effective sick. The date oh his rejoining the squadron is not known. Fajtl was posted to 313 (Czech) Squadron at Catterick on May 25 1941 and served with it until April 1942. On April 10 he damaged a Bf 109 and on the 12th he shared in destroying a Bf 109. He took command of 122 Squadron at Hornchurch on April 27 1942. He failed to return from a sortie over France on May 5, during which he destroyed a Bf 109. He evaded capture and returned to England, via Spain, on August 21 1942. He was awarded the DFC. On September 25 1942 Fajtl was posted to the Inspectorate of the Czech Air Force and attached to HQ 11 Group as Liaison Officer. He moved to HQ 10 Group on October 2 and remained there until May 15 1943, when he went on attachment to HQ Fighter Command on liaison duties. Fajtl was made Station Commander at RAF Church Stanton on June 15, was attached to RAF Skeabrae, as Station Commander, on June 28 and moved to RAF Ibsley as Station Commander on September 19. A week later Fajtl took command of 313 Squadron at Ibsley, leading it until December 31 1943. He volunteered for service in Russia and in February 1944 took twenty-one Czech pilots with him. Fajtl formed and became CO of the 128th Czech squadron, which operated in the Carpathians and Slovakia with the Russian Air Force, flying Lavochkin aircraft. The unit was later redesignated the 1st Czechoslovak Fighter Air Regiment and eventually became part of the Czech Air Force. Fajtl returned to Czechoslovakia after the war. He went on a course to the War College in Prague in late 1945. Promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel on March 1 1946, Fajtl served as temporary commander of the 1st Division and later as an instructor at the War College. When the Communists took over the country in February 1948, Fajtl was dismissed from the service. Arrested on January 10 1950, he was reduced to the rank of Private and imprisoned until July 1951. He then worked as a labourer until 1964, when he was partially rehabilitated and appointed a Colonel of the Reserve. When the Communist regime collapsed in 1990 he was reinstated in the rank of Brigadier-General, retired. In addition to the DFC, Fajtl held four Czech War Crosses and numerous foreign

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WALTER RONALD FARLEY 29089

FL

Pilot

British

Farnes baled out and was rescued from the sea, uninjured. Only two of the nine aircraft got safely back to base. On December 5 1940 Farnes was attached to 307 Squadron at Jurby, a Polish unit, recently formed with Defiants. Farnes was released from the RAF in 1947 as a Squadron Leader. He died on September 23 1985.

151 and 46 Squadrons

Farley, of Knightsbridge, London, joined the RAF on a short service commission on July 7 1930. This was terminated on July 9 and he was granted another on December 29 1930.

APO 5.2.40 PO 16.3.40 FO 16.3.41 FL 16.3.42

He was posted to 2 FTS, Digby on January 10 1931 and with training completed, he joined 13 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Netheravon on December 29 1931. He moved to 2 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Manston on April 3 1933. Farley was posted to the staff of 2 FTS, Digby on March 11 1935 and on September 30 1936 he went on to Class ‘A’ of the RAFO. Recalled on September 1 1939, Farley was appointed Chief Pilot of 11 Air Observer Navigation School at Hamble on February 5 1940. The Unit moved from Hamble to Watchfield on July 20. Farley was posted away to be CO of 419 (Special Duties) Flight at North Weald on August 21 1940. The Flight, part of 11 Group, was responsible for ferrying MI 6 and SOE agents in and out of Occupied Europe. No operations were flown by 419 whilst it was at North Weald. However, during the last week of August Farley flew two operational fighter sorties with 151 Squadron, on August 31 and September 1. In September he flew sorties with 46 Squadron, on September 4, 6 and 28. It is believed he flew more sorties in early October but no ORB details for 46’s activities in October 1940 are available. All these sorties were flown from Stapleford. On October 9 1940 419 Flight moved to Stradishall and during the night of the 19/20th Farley flew 419’s first operational sortie, picking up an MI 6 agent from France. At the end of October Farley went on leave, during which he flew further operational sorties with 46 Squadron. On November 8 he was attacked by a Bf 109 and baled out, breaking a leg on landing. His Hurricane, V 6922, crashed and burned out. Farley was awarded the DFC (7.3.41) for services with 419 Flight, which became 138 Squadron on August 25 1941. He was killed on April 21 1942, as a Wing Commander with 138. Farley was 38 and is buried in Durnbach War Cemetery, Germany.

PAUL CASWELL POWE FARNES 88437

Pilot

British

302 Squadron Born on March 11 1915, Farmer was at Shrewsbury School from 1928 to 1933. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying on August 6 1935, as a pupil pilot. On October 19 he went to 5 FTS, Sealand, to complete his training, after which he joined 57 Squadron at Upper Heyford on June 28 1936.

Farmer was posted to RAF Upwood on October 1 1938, on the SHQ Staff. Farmer was granted a Permanent Commission on August 6 1939. He was attached to the newly-formed 302 Squadron at Leconfield from 14 FTS on July 15 1940, as Chief Flying Instructor. Although attached as a flying instructor, Farmer regularly flew operational sorties. On September 15 he joined the pilots of 302 who had been operating from Duxford with the “Big Wing” since September 13. He damaged a Ju 88 on the 18th. Farmer returned to Leconfield on September 25 with the 302 detachment from Duxford. Awarded the DFC (7.3.41), he was posted away in April 1941 to join 610 Squadron at Westhampnett, as a Flight Commander. Farmer stayed on in the RAF and retired on February 6 1960 as a Group Captain, retaining the rank of Air Commodore. He died on December 5 1999. APO 30.9.35 GC 1.1.54

PO 6.8.36

FO 6.3.38

FL 6.3.40

SL 1.6.41

WC 1.6.42

PO 27.11.40

PO

Air Gunner

British

501 Squadron

FO 27.11.41

FL 26.7.42

SL 1.5.44

SL 1.9.45

ANDREW DOUGLAS FARQUHAR 90158

WC

Pilot

British

257 Squadron

Farquhar joined 602 Squadron, AAF in 1927. He took command of the squadron on October 6 1937. He was called for full-time service on August 24 1939. On October 16 Farquhar shared in the destruction of a He 111 and damaged another, part of an enemy force attacking naval vessels in the Firth of Forth. On patrol on February 9 1940 Farquhar engaged a He 111 twenty miles out to sea and put both its engines out of action. The pilot turned landwards and crash-landed near North Berwick. On February 22 Farquhar shared in shooting down a He 111 at Coldingham, Berwickshire. He followed it down and, seeing that the enemy crew were about to set their aircraft on fire, he landed in the same field. Unfortunately his Spitfire cartwheeled and went on to its back and Farquhar was pulled out by the Germans he had just shot down. He was awarded the DFC (1.3.40), promoted to Wing Commander and posted to RAF Martlesham Heath on April 4 1940, as a supernumerary Wing Commander. Farquhar took command of the station on April 11. Whilst there he flew sorties with 257 Squadron, on September 1 and 18, thus qualifying for the Battle of Britain clasp. He also destroyed two Ju 87s on November 8 1940 whilst flying with 17 Squadron. On March 15 1941 Farquhar became Wing Commander Flying Hornchurch Wing. He

WC 1.7.47

ERIC FARNES 77374

British

On September 14 1939 Farnes joined 501 Squadron at Filton. The squadron flew to Bétheniville in France on May 10 1940. Farnes destroyed a He 111 and shared another on the 12th and shared a Do 17 on the 14th and got a possible He 111 on the 27th. After being withdrawn on June 17, the squadron regrouped at Croydon and Middle Wallop and on July 26 moved to Gravesend. On August 12 Farnes claimed a Ju 87 destroyed, on the 15th two more, on the 18th a Do 17, on the 28th a Bf 109, and on the 30th he damaged a He 111. He damaged two Bf 109s on September 2, damaged a Bf 110 on the 3rd, damaged Do 17s on the 14th and 27th, destroyed a Ju 88 on the 30th and got probable Bf 109s on October 29 and November 8. He was awarded the DFM (22.10.40). Commissioned in November 1940, Farnes was posted to 57 OTU, Hawarden on February 13 1941, as an instructor. He went out to 73 OTU, Aden on November 9 1941, from where he was posted on February 27 1942 to 229 Squadron at El Firdan, as a Flight Commander. The squadron went to Hal Far, Malta in late March 1942 and whilst there, on April 2 Farnes damaged a Ju 88, on the 4th and 8th damaged two unidentified enemy aircraft, on May 6 damaged a Ju 88 and on the 9th damaged a Bf 109. The squadron had been officially disbanded on April 29 1942 and Farnes and other pilots of 229 returned to Egypt on May 27. Farnes was posted to Air HQ Iraq, Habbaniya on July 3 1942 and apart from seven months spent in Baghdad in 1943 he remained there until January 19 1945, when he returned to the UK. After a short refresher course at 53 OTU, Kirton-in-Lindsey, Farnes went to 124 Squadron at Hawkinge for a month. He spent two months at the CFE, Tangmere and then took command of 611 Squadron at Peterhead on July 7 1945. He was given command of 164 Squadron at Turnhouse on August 14 and led the squadron until August 31 1946, when it was disbanded and renumbered as 63 Squadron. In the post-war years Farnes held a series of appointments prior to his retirement on June 27 1958 as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander.

JAMES NIGEL WATTS FARMER FL

Pilot

Farnes, who was born at Boscombe, Hampshire on July 16 1918, joined the RAFVR in April 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741447) and did his flying training at 19 E&RFTS, Gatwick. In July 1939 he took the opportunity of spending six months with the regular RAF and went to the 11 Group Pool at St Athan, where he converted to Hurricanes.

PO 29.12.30 FO 29.7.32 FL 1.4.36 FL 1.9.39 SL 1.12.40 WC 1.3.42

37316

Sgt

141 Squadron

Farnes joined the RAF in February 1940, with a direct-entry commission as an Air Gunner. He was with 141 Squadron at Grangemouth by June 19 1940. The squadron went south to West Malling on July 12. On the morning of the 19th twelve Defiants were ordered forward to Hawkinge. At 12.23 hrs they were ordered off to patrol twenty miles S of Folkestone but three dropped out with engine trouble. At about 12.45 hrs they were surprised by Bf 109s of III/JG 51, attacking from a higher altitude out of the sun. Farnes’ Defiant, L 7001, was badly damaged and crashed near Hawkinge due to engine failure, with the pilot, Flight Lieutenant M J Loudon wounded.

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Tangmere on December 3 and then to 249 Squadron at North Weald two days later. He damaged a Bf 110 on April 13 1941. On April 26 he joined 242 Squadron at Stapleford Tawney. On a patrol over London on May 10 Fayolle shot down a He 111and on August 17 damaged a Bf 109. On October 14 Fayolle moved to 611 Squadron at Hornchurch and three weeks later went to Turnhouse, to join 340 Squadron, the first all- French fighter unit, then being . formed there. On May 3 1942 Fayolle shared in destroying a FW 190 and on the 11th he shot down a Ju 88. At the end of July 1942 Fayolle took command of 174 Squadron at Warmwell. On the Dieppe operation on August 19, his first one as CO, he was killed, when his Hurricane, HV 557, collided with a FW 190, whether deliberately or otherwise is not known. Both aircraft crashed. Fayolle was a Compagnon de la Liberation and had the DFC.

was posted away on June 2 to command the Training Wing at 53 OTU, Heston. He moved on to 58 OTU, at Grangemouth on August 4 1941. Farquhar was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Group Captain. He later went to South Africa and became a farmer. He died in the 1960s. PO (AAF) 17.8.27 FO (AAF) 17.2.29 FL (AAF) 6.5.31 SL (AAF) 26.10.37 SL 24.8.39 WC 1.3.40

JOHN ROBINSON FARROW 745091

Sgt

Pilot

British

1 and 229 Squadrons

Farrow, of Eastleigh, joined the RAFVR about February 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot.

ALAN NORMAN FEARY

Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 9 FTS, Hullavington on No 19 Course, which ran from May 13 to August 17 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU on August 17, for conversion to Hurricanes. He joined No 1 Squadron at Wittering on September 11 1940 and flew his first sortie with the squadron on the 15th and his last on the 27th. He was posted to 229 Squadron at Northolt on September 28 and flew his first operational sortie with it on the 30th. On October 8 1940 Farrow lost formation in cloud and fell out of control over Bovingdon. The Hurricane, V 6820, disintegrated at 200 feet and he was killed, aged 24. Farrow is buried in Northwood Cemetery, Middlesex.

742301

Sgt

Pilot

British

Feary was born in Derby in 1912, educated at Derby Municipal Secondary School and worked in the Borough Treasurer’s Department. Feary joined Class ‘F’ of the RAF Reserve, as an Airman u/t Pilot (700193), in July 1936 and he transferred to the RAFVR in October 1938, gaining his wings on November 18 1938. Feary was called up on September 1 1939. He was posted to 9 FTS at Hullavington for No 12 Course, which ran from October 9 to December 9. On April 6 1940 Feary went to 5 OTU, Aston Down, converted to Blenheims and then joined 25 Squadron at North Weald on May 4. He was posted to 600 Squadron at Manston on May 10 and finally to 609 Squadron at Northolt

JOHN FARTHING 562114

Sgt

Pilot

British

235 Squadron

on June 11. Feary shared in destroying a Ju 88 on July 18, destroyed a Bf 109 on August 12 and destroyed a Ju 87 and damaged a Bf 110 on the 13th. The next day Feary shot down a Ju 88, which had just bombed Middle Wallop, killing some airmen who were trying to close the doors of one hangar. The bomb went through the roof, blew the doors off, which fell on the airmen, crushing them. Feary, already airborne, shot the enemy aircraft down about thirty seconds later. On August 25 he destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged another, on September 7 he got a probable Bf 109 and damaged a Ju 88, on September 24 shot down a Do 17, on the 25th damaged another and on the 26th damaged a Bf 109. Feary was killed on October 7 1940, when he was shot down in a surprise attack by Bf 109s over Weymouth. He baled out but was too low. His Spitfire, N 3238, crashed at Watercombe Farm, S of Warmwell. Feary is buried in Holy Trinity churchyard, Warmwell. In 1987 a permanent exhibition in tribute to him was opened at Derby Industrial Museum.

Farthing went to Brentwood School. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice, in January 1928 and passed out in December 1930, as a Metal Rigger. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. With training completed, Farthing passed out as a Sergeant-Pilot. Farthing joined 235 Squadron on June 2 1940. He flew operational sorties on July 14, 15 and 18. On July 21 he was posted to A&AEE, Boscombe Down for flying duties. He left A&AEE for the Gunnery Research Unit on August 20 1940. Farthing was made an MBE (1.1.46), as a Warrant Officer. No other service details traced.

DEREK P FAWCETT 755949

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

609 Squadron

29 Squadron

Fawcett joined the RAFVR about August 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1, he completed his gunnery training and joined 29 Squadron at Wellingore on October 5 1940.

JOHN LESLIE FEATHER 641705

He flew his first operational sortie on the 10th and remained with 29 Squadron until February 1 1941, by which time 29 was operating almost exclusively with Beaufighters and its air gunners were gradually being posted away. He joined 9 (BAT) Flight in early February 1941 and later went to 75 Squadron at Mildenhall, operating in Wellingtons. Fawcett was killed on operations on September 15/16 1941. His Wellington, X 9759, failed to return from a night operation to Hamburg. He is buried in Ohlsdorf Cemetery, Germany.

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

235 Squadron

Feather, of Liverpool, joined the RAF about May 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG and with training completed he joined 22 Squadron at North Coates in May 1940. He was promoted to Sergeant on June 2. He was attached to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton, probably in August, when 22 Squadron was non-operational. Back with 22 Squadron, he flew his first operational sortie with it on September 14 1940. Feather was killed on operations four days later. He is buried in the Bayeux War Cemetery, France.

EMILE FRANCOIS MARIE LEONCE FAYOLLE 30516

Adjudant

Pilot

French

85 Squadron

EMIL FECHTNER 81887

Fayolle was born on September 8 1916, the son of an Admiral in the Naval Engineering Branch and the grandson of a Marshal in the Army.

PO Pilot

Czechoslovakian

310 Squadron

Fechtner was born on September 16 1916 in Prague. He began his military service on October 1 1935 and was assigned to 10 Regiment of the Czechoslovak Army. He completed his service on September 30 1936 and volunteered to enroll at the Military Aviation School at Olomouc from where he graduated on August 29 1937.

In September 1938 Fayolle joined l’Armée de l’Air. When the Armistice came in June 1940 he was at the Fighter School in Oran. On June 30 he took an aircraft and with another pilot flew to Gibraltar, from where they sailed on July 3 in the armed trawler President Houduce, arriving in Liverpool on the 13th. With other French pilots, Fayolle went to RAF St Athan in late July. He moved to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum on the 29th, for testing and grading. He went to Odiham on August 10, where he flew Tiger Moths and Hectors with No 1 Fighter Training Squadron, Free French Air Force. Fayolle was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 18 to convert to Hurricanes and he joined 85 Squadron at Church Fenton on September 13. He moved to 145 Squadron at

He was sent, as a junior officer, to 38 Fighter Squadron of 3 Aviation Regiment at Piestany, flying Avia B-534 aircraft. On October 4 1937 he went to the Military Aviation Academy, Prostejov, for a fighter pilots’ course and, following graduation, he returned to 38 Fighter Squadron on October 1 1938. After the Germans took over Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939, he was demobilised on the 17th. He escaped to Poland on June 19 1939, and, with

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d’Honneur, held the Czech War Cross, with two bars, and two other Czech gallantry awards.

other Czech airmen sailed from Gdynia, Poland, to Calais, France, where he arrived on August 1 1939. Fechtner joined the French Foreign Legion, the only unit open to foreigners at the time but at the outbreak of war he was seconded to l’Armée de l’Air. On October 3 1939 he went to CIC Chartres for training to French equipment and later he went to Tarbes for further training. After the French collapse in June 1940, Fechtner escaped to England via Bordeaux and arrived at Falmouth on June 21 1940. He went to 7 S of TT, Innsworth, to await a posting. He was commissioned in the RAFVR on July 12 1940 and joined 310 Squadron, then being formed at Duxford. Fechtner stalled and crashed on August 1. He collided with Pilot Officer A Navratil at 25,000 feet on the 15th and landed at Upwood with engine switched off, unhurt. On the 26th Fechtner claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and on the 31st a Do 17. His Hurricane was damaged in this combat over the Thames Estuary but Fechtner returned safely to base. On September 3 and 7 he claimed Bf 110s destroyed, on the 18th, a Do 17 destroyed and on the 27th a Do 17 probably destroyed. He was awarded the DFC (28.10.40). He was killed in a flying accident when he crashed at Whittlesford, near Duxford on October 29 1940, in Hurricane P3708, after colliding with Pilot Officer J M Maly during a Wing patrol. Fechtner was buried at Royston on November 2, but was later re-interred in the Czechoslovak Section of Brookwood Military Cemetery.

PO 2.8.40 FO .5.41 FL 7.41

STANLEY ALLEN FENEMORE 745110

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

British

219, 245 and 501 Squadrons

Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 2 FTS, Brize Norton on No 44 Course, which ran from December 11 1939 to May 18 1940. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 19th, converted to Hurricanes and joined 263 Squadron at Drem, probably on June 10, where it was reforming after losses suffered when HMS Glorious was sunk, returning from Norway. Fenemore was posted from 263 to 219 Squadron at Catterick on July 9 1940 and moved on to 245 Squadron at Hawkinge on July 13. He made his first operational sortie on July 21 and his last with the squadron on September 26. Fenemore moved to 501 Squadron at Kenley by September. 30 1940 and flew his first operational sortie with it on October 7. In an action with Bf 109s over Redhill on October 15 1940, Fenemore was shot down and killed. His Hurricane, V 6722, crashed at Postern Gate Farm, Godstone. He is buried in a family grave at Allerton Cemetery, Liverpool. A memorial stands close to his crash site and Fenemore Road, Kenley Park Estate, built on part of the former airfield was named in his honour.

STANISLAV FEJFAR PO

Pilot

Fenemore, of Whitewell, Co Antrim, joined the RAFVR in February 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot, and carried out his pre-war elementary flying training at 24 E&RFTS, Sydenham, Northern Ireland.

PO 12.7.40

82545

Sgt

310 Squadron

Born in Stikov on November 25 1912, Fejfar volunteered to join the Czech Air Force and train to become a pilot. Between 1931 and 1935 he attended the Military Aviation Academies at Prostejov and Hranice and, following graduation in 1935, was posted to 1 Aviation Regiment as an aerial observer and later to 38 and 37 Fighter Squadrons of 3 Air Regiment in Slovakia. In 1938, during mobilization, he was appointed as Commander of 45 Fighter Squadron, flying Avia B-534s, which was stationed in southern Moravia and later in Spisska Nova Ves, Slovakia where it remained until March 1939.

CECIL FRANCIS FENN 126029

Sgt

Observer

British

248 Squadron

Fenn was born in Worcester on December 26 1911 and educated in Selkirk and Gloucester. Before the war he worked in the aircraft industry at Brockworth.

After the Germans marched into Czechoslovakia, on March 15 1939, Fejfar was demobilised on the 17th. With a group of other Czech airmen he escaped to Poland on June 8 1939 and then made his way to France on board the Sobieski. Prior to the outbreak of war the only way for a foreigner to join the French armed forces was to enlist in the Foreign Legion and Fejfar signed on for five years and was sent to the Legion Depot at Sidi-Bel-Abbes, Algeria, joining the 1st Regiment. After the outbreak of war, he was transferred to l’Armée de l’Air and, after training at the north African bases at Blida and Oran, he joined Groupe de Chasse 1/6, flying Ms 406s, on December 12 1939, based at Oran. The unit later transferred to France once the Battle of France had started. On May 20 1940 he destroyed a Bf 109, on the 25th shared in the destruction of a He 111, on the 29th he destroyed a He 111 and on June 5 he destroyed a Hs 123. After the French collapse, Fejfar was released from service with l’Armee de l’Air and went to Port Vendres in North Africa. He went to Casablanca and boarded the Gib-el-Ders bound for Gibraltar. He then boarded the Neuralia which sailed to Liverpool arriving on July 12. He was commissioned in the RAFVR on August 2 at the Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford and then, four days later, joined 310 Squadron at Duxford. He was attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 17, to convert to Hurricanes. On September 3 he crashed in a field near the aerodrome after his engine failed. Fejfar rejoined 310 Squadron on the 8th. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on the 9th, a Do 17 on the 15th and shared a Do 17 on the 18th. In late October he became ill and suffered blackouts whilst flying. He was sent to Ely Hospital on November 1 for treatment for inflamed sinuses. He was released from the hospital on April 1 1941. Fejfar then went to a staff job at the Inspectorate of the Czech Air Force, in London on April 15 1941. On July 21 he was posted to 313 Squadron at Leconfield, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. The squadron was involved in offensive sorties over France with both the Portreath and Hornchurch Wings. On February 27 1942 he damaged a FW 190, on March 12 he damaged a Bf 109, on April 25 he damaged another FW 190 and on May 5 he claimed a FW 190 destroyed and the probable destruction of another FW 190. Between March 20 and April 13 Fejfar was on sick leave with a recurrence of his sinus problem. On May 17 Fejfar was flying with the Squadron on a bomber escort mission which was attacking a radio-location station at Freya, near Wissant. They were approached by 15 FW 190 aircraft. Fejfar and Sgt Borkovec broke formation to attack the FW 190s and in the subsequent combat both were shot down. Fejfar, who had again been flying Spitfire Vb BL 973, crashed between Guines and Audembert. Fejfar was killed and is buried in Pihen-les-Guines Communal Cemetery, France. He was awarded the Cde G (Fr) with two palms and a star, was a Chevalier of the Legion

He joined the RAFVR in August 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (755859). With training completed, Fenn joined 248 Squadron at Dyce, probably in early May 1940. He went to No 1(C) OTU at Silloth on May 31 and rejoined 248 on June 25 1940. On October 3 1940 Fenn was wounded by perspex splinters in his face and eyes, after return fire, during an attack on a Do 215 over the North Sea. His pilot, Pilot Officer A L Fowler, was awarded the DFC for the action. Fenn served with 248 Squadron until June 1941. He was commissioned from Warrant Officer in May 1942, and was released from the RAF in late 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 20.5.42 FO 20.11.42

FL 20.5.44

FO (RAuxAF) 20.5.50

HAROLD ARTHUR FENTON 27127

SL

Pilot

British

238 Squadron Born in Gallegos, Patagonia, Argentina on February 9 1909, he graduated from Trinity College, Dublin in 1927 and joined the RAF in September 1928 on a short service commission.

He began his flying training at 5 FTS, Sealand on October 1. With his training completed, he joined 4 (Army Cooperation) Squadron at Farnborough in June 1929 and in March 1930 was posted to India to join 5 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Kohat, to take part in operations against the Afridis. Fenton returned to the UK in 1933 and went target-towing at Sutton Bridge. He went on to Class ‘A’ of the RAFO on September 14 1933 and became a civilian flying instructor at Air Service Training, Hamble. Before he was recalled on January 1 1940, Fenton was CFI at 3 EFTS, Hamble, instructing RAFVR trainees. From January 29 to February 10 1940 Fenton was detached from 3 EFTS to the Blind Approach Training and Development Unit at Boscombe Down, on No 8 Course. Soon afterwards Fenton went 8 FTS, Montrose, as a Flight Commander in the Advanced Training Squadron.

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By June 1941 604 was equipped with Beaufighters. On August 1 Fenton was posted to 3 Group Training Flight, for a gunnery conversion course, after which he joined 75 Squadron at Mildenhall, operating with Wellingtons. Commissioned in January 1942, Fenton completed his tour in June and went to CGS, Sutton Bridge, as an instructor. He moved to 28 OTU, Wymeswold in August 1942 and in June 1943 returned to New Zealand. Fenton was posted to Ohakea on instructional duties but in October a medical board found him to be unfit and he was invalided out of the RNZAF on November 15 1943. He returned to farming and died in 1992.

He was promoted to Squadron Leader in June and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 25th for a refresher course. Fenton was posted to 238 Squadron at Middle Wallop on July 13, as a supernumerary. He took command of the squadron two days later. On the 21st he shared in the destruction of a Do 17 and on August 8 he ditched in the Channel, in Hurricane P 2947, after he destroyed a He 59, during a search operation for earlier squadron losses. He was picked up by HMS Bassett and admitted to Haslar Naval Hospital, Gosport. Fenton rejoined the squadron on September 13 and on the 25th he damaged a He 111 and on the 26th he made a forced-landing at Lee-on-Solent after a combat with Bf 110s over Southampton, during which he damaged three. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on October 7. In May 1941 238 was posted to the Middle East. It sailed in HMS Victorious, flew off near Majorca on June 14 for Malta, refuelled there and then went on to Egypt. Fenton was appointed Wing Leader 243 Wing, Western Desert in September 1941. He destroyed a CR 42 over the sea fifteen miles E of Gazala on January 15 1942. He was awarded the DFC (28.7.42). In July 1942 he was promoted to Acting Group Captain and given command of 212 Group, which had twelve squadrons of Hurricanes. Awarded the DSO (16.2.43), Fenton returned to the UK in February 1943 and was made CO of the Kenley Sector. In August 1943 he became Group Captain Ops at 2nd TAF, Bracknell and in December took command of 84 Group Control Centre, moving in early 1944 to 83 Group Control Centre. Fenton was the first senior RAF officer to land in France on D Day. He remained on the Continent and was promoted to Acting Air Commodore, as SASO 83 Group. At the end of the war he was at Luneberg. Offered a Permanent Commission, Fenton declined and did not stay on but was released from the RAF in late 1945. He was made a CBE (1.1.46) and was three times Mentioned in Despatches. Fenton was Managing Director of Deccan Airways from 1946 to 1947, General Manager BOAC 1949 to 1952 and Managing Director of Peter Jones from 1952 until his retirement in 1958. Fenton moved to St Brelade, Jersey and he died in December 1995. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde. He is buried in St Brelade’s churchyard. PO 14.9.28 FO 14.3.30 GC 26.10.45

FO (RAFO) 14.9.33

FL 1.1.40

SL 1.6.40

PO 1.1.42 FO 1.10.42

CHARLES RAYMOND FENWICK 85648

PO

Pilot

British

601 and 610 Squadrons

Fenwick joined the RAFVFR in May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748345). Called up on September 1, he first went to 18 EFTS, Fair Oaks and completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 49 Course, which ran from June 16 to September 7 1940. He was commissioned and sent to 7 OTU, Hawarden. Fenwick converted to Spitfires and he was posted to 610 Squadron at Acklington on the 29th. An administrative error sent him instead to a Hurricane squadron, 601 at Exeter. Fenwick flew some operational sorties before it was discovered that he was overdue at 610. He arrived at Acklington on October 17 and was taken on to the strength of 610 Squadron next day. Fenwick was one of the first MSFU pilots. He joined the Empire Franklyn on July 3 1941 and was reserve pilot on the Empire Tide in the ill-fated convoy PQ 17, sailing for Russia in late June 1942. The Empire Tide was one of only eleven ships that survived German attacks to reach Archangel on July 24, its Hurricane still on the catapult. Fenwick was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Squadron Leader.

WC 1.12.41

PO 7.9.40 FO 7.12.41 FL 7.12.42

JOHN OLLIS FENTON 81679

PO

Pilot

British

235 Squadron

ROY FREDERICK FERDINAND 80817

Fenton, of Sevenoaks, Kent, joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748279). He began his elementary flying training at 2 E&RFTS, Filton and after being called up on September 1 1939, he continued to train there.

WALTER GORDON FENTON Air Gunner

New Zealander

British

263 Squadron

He was commissioned on the 9th and then, after converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 263 Squadron at Drem on the 23rd. The squadron was reforming after most of its original pilots were lost when the aircraft carrier HMS Glorious was sunk earlier in June, returning from Norway. In September 1940 Ferdinand was on ‘B’ Flight which was operational with Hurricanes. He was still with the squadron when he was killed on June 12 1941. Ferdinand was 21. He is buried in Chesham Bois Burial Ground, Buckinghamshire.

PO 11.7.40

Sgt

Pilot

Ferdinand, of Chesham Bois, joined the RAFVR about June 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741661). Called to full-time service on September 1 1939, he completed his training and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 3 1940.

He went to 3 FTS, South Cerney for No 33 Course, which ran from March 25 to July 11 1940. With training completed, he was commissioned and then arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 13. After converting to Blenheims, Fenton joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on August 5. He shared in the destruction of a He 59 off Cherbourg on October 8, in a Blenheim captained by Pilot Officer H A C Gonay of 235. Fenton was killed on May 28 1941, aged 21 and still serving with 235 Squadron. The members of his crew, Sergeant O J Dee (qv) and Sergeant R H Johnson, were also lost. They were flying in Blenheim Z 5968. Fenton is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 32.

391858

PO

PO 9.6.40

604 Squadron

ERIC HANNAH FERGUSON

The son of a farmer, Fenton was born in Gisborne on May 3 1916. Too late for a short service commission, he volunteered for war service in 1939 and reported to the Ground Training School, Weraroa, on December 18, as a trainee air gunner.

116529

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

141 Squadron

Ferguson joined the RAFVR in September 1939, as an Aircrafthand. (969589). He later remustered to an Airman u/t Air Gunner. After completing his training, he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down, to convert to Defiants.

In mid-January 1940 Fenton did a Lewis gun course at AOS, Ohakea and got ten hours flying experience. He left for the UK on March 23 in the SS Akaroa. Fenton arrived on May 9 and he then went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting. On May 29 he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down, where he was awarded his gunner’s badge and promoted to Sergeant. Fenton joined 604 Squadron at Northolt on July 6. Returning from Gravesend to Middle Wallop on August 15, Fenton was in a Blenheim, which suddenly encountered a force of German bombers. Before any action could be taken a lone Spitfire, flown by Pilot Officer D M Crook of 609, came from behind and riddled the Blenheim with bullets. The 604 pilot made a crash-landing at Middle Wallop and Fenton was taken to hospital with flesh wounds.

He was posted to 141 Squadron at Drem on September 15 1940. He remained with 141 until August 7 1941, when he joined 410 (RCAF) Squadron, also at Drem. Commissioned in February 1942, Ferguson was killed on April 11 1943, as a Flying Officer with 515 Squadron, a unit which flew ahead of Bomber Command raids to jam German radar. The Defiant, AA 417, in which he was flying was shot down W of Den Helder, Netherlands by a Bf 110 flown by Uffz Georg Kraft. On June 14 Ferguson’s body was found washed ashore at Aaberg Forstrand near Husby Klit, Denmark. The body of the Defiant’s pilot, Pilot Officer Bartholomew McKeon, was found two days later. Ferguson and McKeon are buried in Lemvig Cemetery, Denmark. PO 9.2.42 FO 1.10.42

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PETER JOHN FERGUSON 90167

FL

Pilot

British

and damaged two others on the 18th, a Bf 110 damaged on the 19th, a Bf 109 destroyed on the 31st, a Bf 109 destroyed and probably another on June 2 and another two Bf 109s destroyed on the 6th. Ferriss was awarded the DFC (21.6.40). He destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged a Do 17 on July 10 and shared a He 59 on the 28th. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on August 7 1940, destroyed a Do 17 and damaged another on the 13th, was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on the 14th and probably destroyed another Do 17 on the 15th. In a head-on attack over Marden on August 16, Ferriss collided with a Do 17 of 7/KG 76 and was killed. He crashed on Sheephurst Farm, in Hurricane R 4193. The Do 17 crashed at Moatlands, Paddock Wood. Ferriss is buried in St Mary’s churchyard, Chislehurst, Kent.

602 Squadron Ferguson joined 602 Squadron AAF on July 16 1936 and was commissioned. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939 and shared in the destruction of a He 111 and damaged another on October 16 1939. Ferguson shared a Do 17 on August 15 1940, and a Ju 87 destroyed and another damaged on the 18th. He was then attacked by one of the Bf 109 escort and hit in the port wing, elevator and fuel tank. Wounded and shocked, he did not bale out, crash-landing at Norway Farm, Rustington, after breaking through power lines. He was taken to Chichester Hospital, with a badly-strained back. On September 4 Ferguson probably destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 6th destroyed a He 111, probably a Bf 110 and

APO 5.9.37 PO 12.7.38 FO 12.1.40

damaged a Ju 88. In early November 1940 Ferguson was appointed Personal Assistant to the Duke of Kent. With recurring pain and periodic blackouts, he was not allowed to fly and lost his flying category. The problem defied diagnosis and the Duke arranged for him to visit his personal physician. It proved to be a small shell splinter lodged between two bones and pressing against the spinal column. This was removed by a successful operation. Whilst Ferguson was being treated, the Duke of Kent was killed, when his Sunderland crashed in Scotland in 1942. Ferguson was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Wing Commander.

FRANK FILDES 1050691

AC

Radar Operator British

25 Squadron

Fildes enlisted in the RAFVR at Padgate about June 1940. He must have volunteered for aircrew duties and been sent on a short radar course. With his brief training completed, he joined 25 Squadron at Debden in October 1940 and flew his first operation on the 25th.

PO (AAF) 16.7.36 FO (AAF) 16.1.38 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41 During the night of November 15/16 1940, Fildes was in a Blenheim, with Sergeant S V Holloway, pilot and Sergeant J D Culmer, gunner. They sighted and destroyed a Do 17 near Harlow, Essex, just before midnight. No further service details traced.

MIROSLAW FERIC P 1387

PO

Pilot

Polish

303 Squadron

Feric was born on June 17 1915 at Travnik, near Sarajevo, Bosnia. The family moved to Poland in 1919. He entered Cadet School in 1935 and was commissioned on October 15 1938, when he joined 111 Eskadra in Warsaw.

DONALD OSBORNE FINLAY 36031 SL Pilot British 54 and 41 Squadrons Born in Bournemouth on May 27 1909, with Osborne as his surname and Finlay as a given name, he was a wellknown Olympic hurdler before and after the war, winning a Bronze Medal in Los Angeles in 1932 and a Silver Medal in Berlin in 1936. He captained the British athletics team at the 1936 games and also competed in the London games of 1948.

In September 1939 he flew with the Pursuit Brigade and was credited with sharing in the destruction of two German aircraft, a Bf 110 on the 6th and a Hs 126 on the 8th. In one combat he baled out of his severely-damaged aircraft. After the fall of Poland, Feric escaped to Romania and then made his way to France, where he joined l’Armée de l’Air. He converted to Morane 406 fighters and joined the fighter section, commanded by Kapt Kazimierz Kuzius, flying from airfields at Tours, Nantes and La Rochelle. When France collapsed in June 1940, Feric escaped to England and went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. He joined 303 Squadron, when it was formed at Northolt on August 2 1940 and he converted to Hurricanes on the squadron. On August 31 he destroyed a Bf 109, on September 2 a probable Bf 109, on the 6th a Bf 109 and probably another, on the 15th a Bf 109 and a Bf 110, on the 27th a Bf 109 and a He 111 and on October 5 a Bf 110. Feric was awarded the VM (5th Class) (18.9.40), the DFC (27.10.40) and the KW (1.2.41). He destroyed a Bf 109 on June 22 1941 and on the 27th damaged a Bf 109 in the air and destroyed another on the ground. He was awarded a Bar to the KW (10.9.41). Between October 1941 and January 1942 Feric was still with 303, on non-operational instructional duties. He was killed on February 14 1942, with 303. On a training flight, his Spitfire, BL 432, broke up in the air and fell on Northolt aerodrome. The cause is unknown. Feric is buried in Northwood Cemetery. He was awarded two more Bars to the KW (31.10.47).

He was educated at Taunton’s Secondary School, Southampton from 1920 to 1925 and joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice (366278), in September 1925, passing out in August 1928 as a Fitter, Aero Engines. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot and with training completed, he was granted a Permanent Commission, having graduated from Cranwell, where he was captain of athletics, on April 30 1935; he was posted to 17 Squadron at Kenley on May 13. Finlay played football and rugby for the RAF and was the RAF long jump champion. He went to 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on March 16 1936 and on August 29 1937 Finlay was posted to the RAF School of Aeronautical Engineering at Henlow, for a course. He was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 11 1940, for a refresher course. He converted to Spitfires and joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 27, as a supernumerary. Next day Finlay was shot down by Bf 109s over Ramsgate and baled out, wounded. His Spitfire, X 4053, may have crashed at Westbere Lake, near Canterbury. On September 14 he took command of 41 Squadron, at Hornchurch. On the 23rd he destroyed a Bf 109, on October 1 damaged a Bf 109, on the 7th shared a Do 17, on the 9th and 20th damaged Bf 109s, shared a Bf 109 on the 27th and destroyed Bf 109s on November 23 and 27. In August 1941 Finlay was promoted to Acting Wing Commander and posted to HQ 11 Group, as Engineering Officer. He destroyed a Bf 109 on March 3 1942, with 485 Squadron. Finlay was awarded the DFC (10.4.42). He damaged a FW 190 on July 30 1942. Posted to the Mediterranean, Finlay took temporary command of 608 Squadron at Montecorvino on April 1 1944. He was promoted to Acting Group Captain soon afterwards and posted to be SASO at 210 Group, British North African Forces. He was awarded the AFC (1.9.44). In 1945 Finlay commanded 906 Wing in Burma. He stayed on in the RAF in the Engineering Branch and retired on February 23 1959. He then went into business. In 1966 Finlay suffered severe back injuries in a car accident and was in a wheel chair until his death in Wycombe General Hospital on April 19 1970. He is buried in St Michael’s churchyard, Halton, Buckinghamshire.

FO 1.3.41

HENRY MICHAEL FERRISS 40099

FO

Pilot

British

111 Squadron

Born at Lee, London on February 27 1918, Ferriss was educated at St Joseph’s, Blackheath and Stoneyhurst College. He was a medical student at St Thomas’s Hospital and was a member of the London University Air Squadron from January 20 1936 to July 4 1937, before he joined the RAF on a short service commission. Ferriss began his ab initio training on July 12 1937, as a pupil pilot. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on September 5 for a short induction course, after which he went to 6 FTS, Netheravon on the 18th. With training completed on May 7 1938, Ferriss joined 111 Squadron at Northolt. He shared in the probable destruction of a He 111 on April 8 1940 and shared another on the 10th. During squadron patrols over France in May, Ferriss destroyed two Bf 110s

PO 30.4.35 FO 30.10.36 FL 30.10.38 SL 1.6.40 WC 1.12.41 WC 1.10.46 GC 1.1.50

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ARCHIBALD FINNIE 79158

PO

Pilot

British

convalesce at Torquay. He rejoined 452, at Kenley, on January 19 1942. One week later Finucane took command of 602 Squadron at Redhill. He was wounded on February 20, in an engagement with FW 190s over the Channel. He destroyed a FW 190 and shared another on March 13, shared a probable Ju 88 on the 14th, destroyed a FW 190 on the 26th, got a probable FW 190 and a probable Bf 109 and shared another on the 28th, damaged FW 190s on April 2, 10 and 16, shared a FW 190 on the 26th, damaged another on the 28th, probably destroyed one on the 30th, shot another FW 190 down on May 17 and probably another on June 8. Finucane was appointed Wing Commander Flying at Hornchurch on June 21 1942. After attacking ships at Ostend and strafing a German airfield on July 15, the Wing reformed to return to Hornchurch. As it passed at low level over the beach at Pointe du Touquet, Finucane’s Spitfire, BM 308, was hit by machine gun fire from the ground and his radiator was damaged. His engine began to overheat and Finucane apparently prepared to bale out but was too low. The engine stopped and he crashed into the sea, never to be seen again. Finucane’s last words over the R/T before hitting the water were ‘This is it chaps’. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 64. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in October 1941.

54 Squadron

Finnie joined the RAFVR in November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742432) and carried out his pre-war training at 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick. Called up on September 1 1939, he went to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 16 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 11 1940. Finnie was commissioned and arrived at No 1 School of Army Cooperation, Old Sarum for No 7 Course, from May 20 to June 22. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 23 1940, to convert on to Spitfires. Finnie joined 54 Squadron at Rochford on July 8. On the 24th he made a forced-landing at Great Bainden Farm, Mayfield, after sustaining damage attacking Do 17s bombing a convoy in the Channel off Dover. He later returned to Rochford. Finnie was shot down and killed the next day, during combat with Bf 109s off Dover. He was 24 and he is buried in Margate Cemetery, Kent.

APO 20.10.38 PO 29.8.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

PO 12.5.40

ANTONY GEORGE ANSON FISHER 73708

FO

Pilot

British

111 Squadron

JOHN FREDERICK FORTESCUE FINNIS 80035

FL

Pilot

British

Fisher was born on June 28 1915 in Kensington, the son of a civil servant and Army officer. A G A Fisher was educated at St Michael’s School, Uckfield and Eton. His father was killed by a Turkish sniper when Fisher was an infant. He read Engineering at Trinity College, Cambridge, served with the University Air Squadron and was commissioned in the RAFVR in August 1939. Before the war he set up a company intended to manufacture sports cars and then a car rental business.

1 and 229 Squadrons Finnis was an elementary flying instructor in 1938 in what then was the Southern Rhodesian Air Unit, which became the Southern Rhodesian Air Force on September 6 1939. He was with a draft of Southern Rhodesian personnel, who sailed for Britain on July 6 1940. Finnis transferred to the RAFVR and was given a commission for the duration of hostilities. He was gazetted as a Pilot Officer/Temporary Flight Lieutenant on August 1 1940, with seniority from January 1 1940. He probably went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 2 1940 and after converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to No 1 Squadron at Northolt on August 31. He made his first flight on September 3, local flying. On the 7th he damaged a Do 17

He was called to full-time service at the outbreak of war and after completing his training, he joined 111 Squadron at Wick in March 1940. On August 15 he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 near Thorney Island, with his younger brother, Flying Officer B M Fisher. Antony Fisher was posted away from 111 Squadron on August 24 1940. At some time later, in 1942, Fisher devised an air gunnery attachment for the Link Trainer, which came to the attention of ‘Sailor’ Malan, then commanding the CGS at Sutton Bridge. He arranged for Fisher to be posted there, to develop his idea. Awarded the AFC (1.9.44), Fisher was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Squadron Leader. He worked in the City of London and had a spell as a dairy farmer, going on to set up the Buxted Chicken Company. In 1955 he founded the Institute of Economic Affairs, which greatly influenced Britain’s economic policy under Mrs Thatcher. Fisher was knighted in June 1988 and he died in San Francisco on July 8 of that year. He was the elder brother of B M Fisher.

in the Sevenoaks area. He was posted to 229 Squadron at Northolt on October 17 1940. The squadron embarked on the carrier HMS Furious on May 10 1941 for the Middle East. On June 9 1942 Finnis was posted to 127 Squadron in the Western Desert as a flight commander, but was given command of 33 Squadron at LG 154 on July 20, an appointment he held until October 31 1942. Finnis returned to the SRAF on September 8 1945. FL (SRAF) 5.12.39 PO/FL 1.8.40 SL 1.3.41

BRENDAN EAMONN FERGUS FINUCANE 41276

FO

Pilot

Irish

PO (RAFVR) 1.8.39 PO 25.9.39 FO 25.9.40 FL 25.9.41 SL 1.7.45

65 Squadron Born on October 16 1920 in Dublin, Finucane was educated at the Christian Brothers O’Connel School there. The family moved from Ireland to Richmond, Surrey in the mid-1930s. He was working in an office when he successfully applied for a short service commission in the RAF in 1938.

BASIL MARK FISHER 73282

FO

Pilot

British

111 Squadron

Born on October 8 1916, Fisher was educated at Eton and read Modern Languages and History at Trinity College, Cambridge. He served in the University Air Squadron and was commissioned in the RAFVR in July 1938, being called to full-time service in October 1939. He was then working for the Board of Customs and Excise.

On August 29 1938 Finucane began his elementary flying training at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell, as a pupil pilot. He moved to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on October 29, for a short disciplinary course, and then went to 8 FTS, Montrose on November 12. After qualifying and being commissioned, he went to 13 MU, Henlow on June 26 1939, in the Practice and Test Flight. He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on June 28 1940 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on July 15. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed, another probably destroyed and one damaged on August 12 and a Bf 109 destroyed and probably another on the 13th. In June 1941 he claimed a Bf 110 on the 4th, on the 19th he shared a Ju 88, on February 4 destroyed a Bf 109 and on April 15 another. He was awarded the DFC (13.5.41). On April 14 Finucane was posted to 452 (RAAF) Squadron, then forming at Kirton-inLindsey, as a Flight Commander. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on July 11, the squadron’s first victory. Between August 3 and October 13 1941 Finucane claimed sixteen Bf 109s destroyed, two probably destroyed, two shared and two damaged. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (9.9.41), a second Bar (26.9.41) and the DSO (21.10.41). After breaking an ankle in the blackout, Finucane entered RAF Hospital, Halton on November 14 and left a week later to

Fisher completed his training at 6 FTS, Little Rissington on No 15 Course, which ran from October 9 1939 to April 27 1940. He was with the Advanced Training Squadron of 6 FTS, when it arrived at 10 B&GS, Warmwell on April 24, for Armament training, the final part of No 15 Course. He joined 111 Squadron at Croydon on May 12 1940. Fisher probably destroyed a Bf 109 on June 6 and shared in the destruction of a He 59 W of Cherbourg on July 28. On August 15, in an action with Ju 88s and Bf 110s over Selsey, Fisher was shot down in flames. He baled out but was killed. His Hurricane, P 3944, crashed at Greenwoods Farm, Sidlesham. During this final action, Fisher shared in damaging a Ju 88 with his elder brother, Pilot Officer A G A Fisher, who witnessed the Hurricane’s demise. Fisher was 23 and he is buried in St John’s Church Cemetery, Eton. PO (RAFVR) 26.7.38 PO 10.10.39 FO 26.1.40

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GERALD FISHER 41570

FO

Pilot

British

In his next action two days later, Fitzgerald shot down two Bf 109s, which attacked him at 4000 feet. Wounded in the shoulder and left hand, he managed to make a forced-landing among French troops, without injury to his crewman. He returned to England in a hospital ship. For these two actions, Fitzgerald was awarded the DFC (13.6.40). He volunteered for Fighter Command and on August 11 he joined 141 Squadron at Turnhouse, as ‘B’ Flight Commander, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. He joined 23 Squadron at Ford in late April 1941 and when his tour ended in mid-July, Fitzgerald went to 54 OTU. Whilst there he converted to Hurricanes and in September was posted to 607 Squadron at Martlesham Heath, as a Flight Commander, moving in November to 41 Squadron at Merston. In late February 1942, at the end of his third tour, Fitzgerald was placed on the Special Duties List and went to Hawker Aircraft at Langley, as a test pilot. On August 23 1942 Fitzgerald was flying the original prototype Hurricane, then camouflaged and with a threebladed propeller, when he was fired on by a Do 17, which he then attacked and damaged. Other fighters shot it down into the sea. Fitzgerald returned to New Zealand in late January 1943, was attached to the RNZAF and given command of 14 (RNZAF) Squadron, which went to Santo in the Solomon Islands in early April. He returned to New Zealand in June, to go to Staff College at Palmerston North. On October 2 1943 his attachment ceased. He returned to the UK and in mid-November went to De Havilland’s, as a test pilot. In June 1944 Fitzgerald spent several weeks at the AFDU, Wittering, flying Bf 109s and FW 190s. He returned to operations on June 11, when he was made Wing Leader at Coltishall. At the end of his fifth tour, Fitzgerald was posted to HQ 2nd TAF in January 1945. He transferred to the RNZAF in February 1946, returned to New Zealand in March 1947 and was released on December 15 1947. Fitzgerald died on August 16 2006.

602 Squadron

Fisher joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course, as a pupil pilot, on October 31 1938 at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham. He moved on to 7 FTS, Peterborough for No 11 Course, which ran from January 31 to August 28 1939. Fisher was then posted to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum for a course, on completion of which he joined 614 Squadron at Odiham on October 7 1939. He moved from 614 to 613 Squadron at Netherthorpe on July 12 1940. Fisher volunteered for Fighter Command and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 22 1940. He converted to Spitfires and joined 602 Squadron at Westhampnett on September 8. Fisher claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed on September 26, shared a probable Ju 88 on October 12 and destroyed a Bf 109 on the 29th. He joined 610 Squadron at Acklington on December 17 1940. 421 Flight at Hawkinge was renumbered 91 Squadron on January 11 1941 and Fisher joined it about this time. On March 12 he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another off Dungeness. Fisher was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1973. APO 14.1.39 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.45

WILLIAM MEADE LINDSLEY FISKE 78092

PO

Pilot

American

601 Squadron

The son of an international banker, Fiske was born in Chicago on June 4 1911 and educated at private schools in the USA and France, to where his family moved in1922. He was at Cambridge University in the early 1930s. In the Winter Olympics, Fiske set a record for the Cresta Run and was in the US teams that won gold medals in the bobsled event at St Moritz in 1928 and at Lake Placid in 1932. Fiske drove the first Stutz car to be in the Le Mans 24 hour race, when he was 19. At one time he held the Cambridge University to London record in his 8 litre Bentley. He learned to fly privately in the mid-1930s and obtained his ‘A’ Licence. In 1938 he married the former Countess of Warwick and they returned to the USA. He sailed for Britain on September 1 1939 in the Aquitania, arriving on the 9th.Two weeks after the outbreak of war, Fiske volunteered for the RAF, and a behind-the-scenes arrangement was made and he was enlisted in the RAF on September 18. His place of birth was recorded as Montreal, Canada. In late October 1939 Fiske began his flying training at 10 EFTS, Calne. He was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on March 20 1940 and was commissioned in the RAFVR on the 23rd and was on No 46 Course, which ran from March 25 to July 11 1940. He passed out, with an ‘above average’ rating and joined 601 Squadron at Tangmere on the 13th. Fiske had never flown a Hurricane before making his first flight with 601 on July 14. With less than eleven hours on Hurricanes, he flew his first patrol on the 20th. He claimed a Ju 88 destroyed on August 13. Three days later Fiske was shot down over Tangmere. His aircraft caught fire but he thought it was only a glycol leak and instead of baling out, he came in to land in spite of being warned by ground control. The moment he touched down the Hurricane went up in flames. Fiske was grievously burned. He was taken to hospital but died of shock and injuries the next day, August 17 1940. He was 29 and he is buried in Sts Mary and Blaise Churchyard, Boxgrove Priory, Sussex. A bronze memorial plaque was unveiled in St Paul’s Cathedral on July 4 1941. Beneath his name are the words ‘An American citizen who died that England might live’.

PO (RNZAF) 8.6.37 PO 1.6.38 FO 1.1.40 FL 1.1.41 SL 1.3.42

JOSEPH FRANCIS FIZEL 1002702

AC 1

Radar Operator

British

29 Squadron

Fizel joined the RAFVR about June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. He probably volunteered for flying duties and was sent to Yatesbury for a short radar course. He was posted to 29 Squadron at Wellingore in early August 1940. He flew his first operational sortie on August 12. On October 13 Fizel was one of the crew in Blenheim K 7135, with Flying Officer J D Humphreys, pilot and Sergeant E H Bee, air gunner. The aircraft was attacked in error by Hurricanes of 312 Squadron off the East coast. Although damaged, Humphreys managed to regain his base at Ternhill. All three of the crew were unhurt. It was Fizel’s last sortie with the squadron. No further service details traced. Fizel is believed to have left the RAF during the war. He died on August 29 1976.

JOHN FLEMING 36195

FO

Pilot

New Zealander

605 Squadron

Born in Scotland on July 29 1915, Fleming was taken to New Zealand as a child. He graduated as a Bachelor of Commerce in 1935 from Victoria College, Wellington and got his Master’s degree there two years later.

APO 23.3.40 PO 13.7.40 In 1938 Fleming was nominated for one of the few directentry Permanent Commissions in the RAF, offered each year to graduates of British and Commonwealth universities. He was accepted and sailed for the UK on May 6 1939. Fleming began his flying training at 5 E&RFTS, Hanworth on June 12, moving on August 19 to 2 FTS, Brize Norton for No 40 Course, which ran from August 21 1939 to February 17 1940. With the course completed, Fleming was posted to No 1 Air Armament School, Manby, for a Specialist Armament Course, which ended on July 6. Fleming then went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, for conversion to Hurricanes, after which he joined 605 Squadron at Drem on August 5. The squadron moved south to Croydon on September 7. The following morning they were ordered off and met a force of enemy bombers, escorted by Bf 109s, over Tunbridge Wells. In the ensuing combat Fleming was shot down in flames. He baled out, made a delayed drop of 20,000 feet and landed, badly burned and shocked. Fleming was taken to Wrotham Cottage Hospital, at that time housing twelve expectant

THOMAS BERNARD FITZGERALD 40783

FO

Pilot

New Zealander

141 Squadron

Fitzgerald was born at Temuka, South Canterbury on July 11 1919 and was educated at Timaru Boys’ High School, after which he went farming with his father. He joined the RNZAF on a short service commission on June 8 1937 and carried out his flying training at Wigram. On April 23 1938 Fitzgerald sailed for the UK in the SS Tamaroa and on arrival, he transferred to the RAF and joined 103 Squadron at Usworth on June 15. At the end of the year the squadron converted to Fairey Battles. It flew to France on September 2 1939, as part of the Advanced Air Striking Force. On May 12 1940 Fitzgerald was leading a section of three Battles, as part of a bomber force attacking bridges and roads near Sedan. Attacked by Bf 110s, they went down to low level, flew along the Meuse and bombed from twenty feet while their gunners fired at German troops.

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JOHN DENYS FLETCHER

mothers. He was transferred to RAF Hospital, Halton, where he was put aside as a hopeless case, after refusing to have both his legs amputated at the hip. With burned eyeballs, lying blindfolded in a small room, having injections of morphine every four hours, he was, in his own words, ‘left to rot’. He was found by Archie McIndoe. The surgeon suggested that as he was far too badly burned for plastic surgery, he might like to go to Queen Victoria Hospital at East Grinstead, to try the Saline Bath treatment. McIndoe pointed out that the treatment was still largely experimental but by then Fleming had nothing to lose. He transferred from Halton in October and within ten days of starting the bath treatment, microscopic dots of skin began to grow, although initially they could only be seen with a magnifying lens. Fleming was at East Grinstead until August 1941, when he was discharged to RAF Kenley. In September he was posted to 23 OTU, Pershore as Chief Armament Instructor and Station Armament Officer. Two years later Fleming was seconded to 12 Group RCAF, to take up the post of Inspector of Bombing and Gunnery at OTUs in Canada. He was awarded the MBE in 1944. In March 1945 he was recalled to the UK to join one of the specialist teams tracking down V1 and V2 sites in France and Belgium in the wake of the advancing Allied armies. He went to Manby in September for the first Advanced Empire Air Armament Course, after which he was sent to RAF Staff College, Bracknell for a course. In June 1946 Fleming returned to New Zealand on leave, his first visit in over seven years. He held a series of appointments in Britain and overseas prior to retiring at his own request on February 5 1959. Fleming settled in England and became a trust administrator. He died in 1995. PO 5.8.39 FO 5.2.40 FL 1.12.40 SL 1.12.41

61460

Sgt

Pilot

British

3 Squadron

Fletcher joined the RAFVR about July 1939 as an Airman u/t Pilot (754586). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 19 Course, from April 11 to July 24 1940. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 3. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 3 Squadron at Wick on August 19 1940. He made his first operational sortie on September 2. Commissioned in January 1941, Fletcher later went to No 1 Squadron but returned to 3 Squadron, then at Hunsdon, on September 28 1941. He moved to 258 Squadron at Debden on October 18 1941 but did not go to Singapore with it in November. Fletcher was killed on February 8 1942, as a Flight Lieutenant with 91 Squadron. He was 23 and is buried in Middelkerke Communal Cemetery, Belgium. PO 29.1.41 FO 29.1.42

JOHN GORDON BOWLEY FLETCHER 800635

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

604 Squadron

Fletcher, of Wadhurst, joined 604 Squadron, AAF about November 1938, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered and trained as an Air Gunner. He was called to fulltime service on August 24 1939. He was with 604 Squadron in June 1940. He was one of the crew of Blenheim L 6872, which crashed at Witheridge, Exeter on August 25 1940, whilst on a sortie. Fletcher and the pilot, Sergeant C Haigh were killed and the radar operator, LAC A L Austin, died next day. Fletcher was 20. He is buried in Forest Row Cemetery, Sussex.

WC 1.12.43 WC 1.7.48

ROBERT DAVID SPITTAL FLEMING 74672

PO

Pilot

British

249 Squadron

WALTER THOMAS FLETCHER NZ 40606

Sgt

Air Gunner

Fleming was educated at St Paul’s School and went on to London University, where he read Law and was a member of the University Air Squadron. He joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754807).

In late September 1939 Fletcher volunteered for aircrew duties. He went to the Ground Training School at Weraroa on February 11 1940, as a trainee air gunner. In March he moved to the Air Observers’ School, Ohakea, for a Lewis gunnery course and air experience. He sailed for the UK in the RMS Rangitiki on April 26 and after arriving on June 8, he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting. Fletcher was sent to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 17 and after experience on Blenheims, he joined 23 Squadron at Ford on September 21. After the Battle of Britain the squadron began night intruder operations against airfields in France. On the night of April 9 1941 Fletcher’s Blenheim bombed a column of enemy vehicles on the Goderville-Bolbec road. In late April he was in a Blenheim approaching the French coast on the way home, when a four-engined bomber was sighted flying on the same course. It was identified as a FW Kondor and was probably on its way to attack Allied shipping in the Atlantic. Closing in, the Blenheim opened fire and the first bursts hit the Kondor’s bomb load and it exploded with a blinding flash, filling the air with debris and throwing the Blenheim about. After landing, the crew found a piece of armour plate, nearly three feet square, sticking out of the leading edge of one wing. On the night of May 3 1941, in a Havoc, Fletcher fired on and damaged a Ju 88 and a He 111. In March 1942 he was posted to 116 Squadron, flying in Lysanders on radar calibration duties. In May Fletcher went to 1653 Conversion Unit at Polebrook for crewing-up and conversion to Liberators. After a spell in the Air Crew Pool at Snaith, Fletcher’s crew flew a Liberator to the Middle East, to join 160 Squadron at Aqir, Palestine in September. The squadron was combined with 159 Squadron in mid-January 1943, to form 178 Squadron. Fletcher left Egypt in mid-March 1943, flew down to Freetown and sailed for the UK on the 27th. After leave, he was posted to 11 OTU, Bassingbourn, as a Warrant Officer instructor. In mid-May 1944 he joined 282 Squadron on ASR duties, serving with it until November. He elected to take his discharge from the RNZAF in London on April 5 1945. Fletcher later returned to live in New Zealand.

PO 3.10.39

ANDREW WILLIAM FLETCHER SL

Pilot

Canadian

23 Squadron

Born in Wairoa on October 14 1917, Fletcher was educated at Tauranga District High School and after leaving, he trained as an electrician.

Called up on September 1, Fleming was commissioned on October 3, went to No 1 ITW, Cambridge in November and then to RAF College FTS, Cranwell on January 1 1940. With training completed, Fleming was posted to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum on June 2 but eight days later he was sent to 5 OTU, Aston Down, to convert to Hurricanes, after which he joined 249 Squadron at Leconfield on June 23 1940. On September 6 Fleming shared in the destruction of a Bf 110. Next day he was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 109s over Maidstone. His Hurricane, R 4114, crashed at Hollingbourne. Fleming was 20 years old. He was cremated at Golders Green Crematorium and there is a memorial plaque there to him.

37280

New Zealander

235 Squadron

Fletcher, of Cardston, Alberta, joined the RAF on a short service commission in July 1935. He went to 5 FTS, Sealand on September 28 and after training was completed, he was posted to SHQ RAF Calshot on July 20 1936. On June 1 1940 Fletcher and Flight Lieutenant F W Flood joined 235 Squadron at Detling, as ‘B’ and ‘A’ Flight Commanders respectively, as replacements, when the squadron lost both its Flight Commanders on May 29. He was with 235 throughout the Battle of Britain, and was awarded the DFC (22.10.40). He was posted away with his flight to Aldergrove on November 19 1940, where it combined with a flight from 236 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron, of which Fletcher then took command. He received a Mention in Despatches in January 1941. In late May 1941 272 Squadron went to the Middle East and Fletcher led a detachment to Malta in mid-July. On the 28th he destroyed four SM 79s and damaged two CR 42s on the ground at Borizzo airfield, on the 30th he destroyed three SM 79s on the ground at Elmas airfield and on September 28 he probably shot down two enemy aircraft at night. At the end of his tour in October 1941, Fletcher was awarded a Bar to the DFC (31.10.41) and posted away. He was released from the RAF in 1946, returned to Canada and went farming in Warner, Alberta.

JOHN LAYTON FLINDERS 48342

PO

Pilot

British

32 Squadron

Flinders was born on August 3 1917 at Chesterfield, Derbyshire. He was educated at Chesterfield Grammar School. In January 1936 he joined the RAF on a four-year engagement, as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot (580082). He began his ab intio training at 2 E&RFTS, Filton on January 6 1936, as a pupil pilot. Afterwards he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge for a short disciplinary course and then

APO 16.9.35 PO 29.2.36 FO 29.8.37 FL 29.8.39 SL 1.9.40 WC 1.3.42

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serving with West African Communication Command. He completed his nine-year engagement with the RAF and retired as a Master Signaller, with the rank of Warrant Officer. During the Berlin Airlift in 1948 he flew 103 sorties with 27 Squadron. In 1952 Flower graduated from the London School of Economics and then served in the Colonial Service, retiring in 1965 as Provincial Commissioner for the Northern Province of Sierra Leone. He was called to the Bar in 1967 and was then in the Solicitors’ Office of HM Customs and Excise. Flower transferred to the Lord Chancellor’s Department, finally retiring in 1982, as Deputy Circuit Administrator, Northern Province. Flower did not claim his Battle of Britain Clasp until June 1999. He died on April 15 2015.

moved on to 3 FTS, Grantham on March 13. With training completed, he joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on December 19 1936. In 1938 Flinders obtained his Navigator’s Licence and was invited to an interview with Imperial Airways at Croydon. He later signed to join them, as a Second Officer Pilot, when his term of service expired. The outbreak of war caused this arrangement to fall through. On November 20 1939 Flinders was a member of a section which intercepted a Do 17 at 26,000 feet E of North Foreland. The aircraft was destroyed. Commissioned on April 1 1940, Flinders was posted to 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill. He was appointed Training Officer, responsible for acquainting new pilots with squadron flying and fighting procedures. Flinders’ navigation experience was utilised with his flying ahead of the squadron, or sometimes the Wing, when it was assigned to patrol a specific area, or land at airfields in France. On May 18 Flinders probably destroyed a He 111 over Arras during a bomber- escort operation and on the 19th he destroyed a Bf 109 during a patrol over Cambrai/Arras. Whilst flying ahead of the squadron on the 23rd, Flinders’ aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire, causing the engine to leak glycol. He had almost reached the Channel, when the engine seized at 1000 feet near Cap Griz Nez light and he crash-landed in an adjoining field. With the help of French soldiers and a Belgian ambulance Flinders went to Calais and then by boat to Southampton. Meanwhile he had been reported ‘Missing, believed killed’. Flinders shot down a He 111 on June 7 during a patrol over Abbeville/ Aumal/ Landen/Rouen-Boos. During a raid on Kenley and Croydon on August 15, he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 18th, during a raid on Biggin Hill, he destroyed two Do 17s. On March 3 1941 Flinders was posted to 55 OTU, Aston Down, as an instructor. He went to HQ 10 Group, Box on October 22, was posted to CFS, Upavon for a course on December 15, after which he went to 9 (P) AFU, Hullavington on February 1 1942. Flinders moved to 2 FIS, Montrose on March 28, was sent to Empire Central Flying School at Hullavington for a course on November 10, returning to 2 FIS on February 17 1943. Flinders sailed for Canada on May 29 in the Empress of Scotland. He arrived at 31 SFTS, Kingston on June 14 and was categorised an A1 instructor in August. From March 29 1944 to February 18 1945 Flinders was attached to the RCAF, on the staff of CFS, Trenton, Ontario, mostly with No 2 Visiting Flight in 2 Command, RCAF. He returned to the UK in the Queen Elizabeth, arriving on March 6 1945. After spells at AFEE, Beaulieu and A&AEE, Boscombe Down, Flinders was released from the RAF in November 1945, as a Squadron Leader. From November 1948 until September 1953 Flinders served in the RAFVR, at 69 RFS, Desford, 12 RFS, Filton and 15 RFS, Redhill. After he retired in 1978, he emigrated to Canada. He died in 1998.

VACLAV FOGLAR 138057

Pilot

Australian

Czechoslovakian

235 Squadron

Flood was born in Roma, Queensland on March 18 1915. He carried out his flying training with the RAAF at Point Cook in 1935. He sailed for England in January 1936 to take up a short service commission. On March 6 1936 Flood was posted to 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill. He moved to 8 Squadron at Kharmaksar, Aden on October 24 1936. Flood was appointed PA to the AOC British Forces in Aden on April 4 1938. He returned to his squadron on October 18. On June 1 1940 Flood and Flight Lieutenant A W Fletcher joined 235 Squadron at Detling, as ‘A’ and ‘B’ Flight Commanders to replace its Flight Commanders, both lost on May 29. Over Dunkirk on June 1 1940 he damaged a He 111 and on an escort-operation to Le Havre on August 21, he shot a Hs 126 down into the sea. Three days later his Blenheim was damaged in an attack by Hurricanes of No 1 (RCAF) Squadron over Thorney Island. Flood escaped with minor damage to his aircraft. Two other Blenheims of the squadron were also attacked, one was shot down and its crew killed. On September 11 1940 Flood led six Blenheims of 235 on an escort-operation for FAA Albacores attacking Calais. They were attacked by Bf 109s and Flood’s aircraft, L 9396, was shot down. He, his observer, Pilot Officer N B Shorrocks and his gunner, Sergeant B R Sharp, were all reported ‘Missing’. They are remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panels 4, 10 and 19 respectively.

PO 25.5.42 FL 6.44

EMIL ANTONIN FOIT 83225

PO

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

HERBERT LUIZ FLOWER Sgt

Wop/AG

British

85 and 310 Squadrons

Born in Brno on March 12 1913, Foit undertook his military service in the infantry with 40 Army Regiment at Valasske Mezirici. He completed this service in 1936 and decided to remain in the military. He was sent to the Military Aviation Academy Hranice and then at Prostejov for training as an aerial observer. After graduation he was selected for pilot training which he completed on April 1 1938. He was then assigned to 48 Fighter Squadron of 4 Air Regiment at Pardubice, flying Avia B-534 bi-plane fighter aircraft.

PO 21.2.36 FO 21.9.37 FL 21.9.39

551866

245 Squadron

The Germans occupied Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939 and Foglar was demobilised on March 17. On June 16 1939 he travelled to Ostrava and then hid in a freight train bound for Poland. He reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate in Krakow and then went to Gdynia from where, on July 26 1939, he sailed on the Kastelholm, bound for Calais. On arrival he was required to join the French Foreign Legion with the assurance that he would be transferred to a French military unit if war was declared. He went to the Legion base at St Jean, Marseilles, and then to their training base at Sidi-bel-Abbes, Algeria. After war was declared Foglar transferred to l’Armee de l’Air and was posted to Rhiems and then Avord. On January 16 1940 he was posted to the training base at Chartres for training on French equipment. Before this training was completed, France capitulated and Foglar was released from service with l’Armee de l’Air. With other Czech airmen he flew to Oran and then travelled to Casablanca by train, Here he boarded a ship which took him to Gibraltar from where he sailed on to Falmouth. He was enlisted in the RAFVR (787662) on August 2 and was posted from the RAF Czechoslovak Depot, Cosford to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, on September 21, to convert to Hurricanes. Foglar joined 245 Squadron at Aldergrove on October 18. He went to 249 Squadron at North Weald on November 10 and then to 17 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on the 18th where he remained until May 27 1941. He was then posted to 313 Squadron at Leconfield. In early 1942 he was serving with 313 Squadron at Hornchurch and on April 10 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed. He remained with the Squadron until March 14 1944. Foglar was posted to 105 OTU at Bramcote for training on Transport Command aircraft. He was posted to 147 Squadron, then flying DC 3s and based at Croydon. He was engaged on flying VIP personnel to Europe, Burma and Ceylon. He returned to Czechoslovakia on August 17 1945 and remained in the Czech Air Force being demobilised on February 1 1946. He joined CSA, the Czechoslovak National Airline, as a Captain, flying DC3s. On December 21 1948, on a scheduled flight from Prague to Israel via Rome and Athens, his aircraft, DC 3, OK-WDN, encountered bad weather when approaching Athens and crashed in the Taygetus Mountains, on the Peloponnese peninsula, southern Greece, with the loss of all on board, four crew and 19 passengers.

FREDERICK WILLIAM FLOOD FL

Pilot

Foglar was born on September 27 1916 at Machov, Nachod. In 1935 he enrolled at the Military Aviation Academy at Prostejov and graduated in 1937. He was assigned to 15 Observation Squadron of 3 Air Regiment at Piestany in Slovakia which was equipped with Letov S-28 aircraft.

PO 1.4.40 FO 1.4.41 FL 1.4.42 SL 15.9.43

37582

Sgt

248 Squadron

Flower was born at Ballasalla, Isle of Man on November 24 1921. He joined the RAF as a Boy Entrant in September 1937, for training as a Wireless Operator. He later carried out training as an Air Gunner and he joined 248 Squadron at Sumburgh on July 26 1940, as a Wop/AG.

The Germans occupied Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939 and, two days later, Foit was demobilised. He escaped to Poland on May 7 1939. He travelled on to Gdynia and sailed to England, via Sweden. He travelled on to France where he arrived on August 7 1939.

He flew 126 sorties with Coastal Command and at the end of the war Flower was then

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Fokes was lost in action. His Typhoon was hit by flak, he baled out low and his parachute failed to open fully. He was 31 and is buried in Banneville-la-Campagne War Cemetery.

He was required to join the French Foreign Legion with the assurance that he would transfer to a French military unit if war was declared. He went to the Legion training base at Sidi-bel-Abbes, Algeria. Two days after war was declared he transferred to l’Armee de l’Air and went to the base in Tunis for retraining to French equipment. On November 9 1939 Foit was posted to Groupe de Chasse I/9 at Oran-La-Senia, North Africa, flying Morane 406s. GCI/9 transferred to Marseille-Marignane on March 29 1940. On April 3 it transferred to Dijon. The inactivity of the ‘phoney war’ resulted in GCI/9 moving back to Marignane on May 1 and then to El Aouina, in Tunisia, on May 6. The Germans invaded France on May 10 and GCI/9 was transferred to Marignane on May 19 and then to Tunis 4 days later in anticipation of Italian air raids. Following the French capitulation Foit was released from service with l’Armee de l’Air and, on July 2 1940, boarded a train to Casablanca. He then boarded the Glasgow, which took him to Gibraltar and then the David Livingstone which took him to Cardiff where he arrived on August 6. Foit was commissioned in the RAFVR on August 17 at the Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford. He went 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 28 and, after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 85 Squadron at Church Fenton on October 16 1940. Foit was posted to 310 Squadron at Duxford on October 22 and joined the squadron next day. Still with 310 in 1941, he baled out of Hurricane Z 3505 on August 31, when his aircraft’s cooling system failed and the aircraft caught fire. Foit fractured a rib when he landed and rejoined the squadron after recovery. On February 4 1942 Foit damaged a Ju 88, on April 28 destroyed a Ju 88, on June 5, damaged a FW 190 on June 23, destroyed a FW 190 and on August 19 damaged three Do 17s, in two actions. . He was made ‘B’ Flight Commander and held the post until November 15 when he was posted away for a rest. Foit rejoined 310 Squadron, then at Exeter, on January 15 1943, as CO. On January 29 he destroyed a FW 190. He led the squadron until March 14 1944 and was awarded the DFC and the Czech Military Cross. He was then posted to the Czechoslovak Inspectorate General, in London, where he remained until the end of the war. Foit was released from the RAF, as a Squadron Leader. He returned to Czechoslovakia, on August 16 1945, and rejoined the Czech Air Force, commanding the 10th Air Regiment, at Prague-Kbely, which was equipped with Spitfires. On April 30 1947 Foit was appointed Commander of the Operations Department at 1 Air Command HQ. Following the Communist take-over in 1948 Czechs who had fought with the Allies were regarded as ‘tainted’ Before the communist authorities could focus on him, Foit escaped, with his British wife, into the American zone of occupied Germany on March 28 1948. He travelled on to England and rejoined the RAF in which he served as an Air Traffic Controller at bases in England, Northern Ireland and Ceylon. Foit retired from the RAF on March 12 1963 as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. He died in Newquay, Cornwall on June 18 1979.

PO 29.11.40

149657

Pilot

British

AC Radar

Operator

British

604 Squadron

Folliard joined 604 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand (804382) and was mobilised on August 24 1939. He later volunteered for flying duties. He was flying non-operationally with 604 by June 5 1940. He probably trained as a radar operator with the squadron. He flew only one operational sortie during the Battle of Britain, on August 15 but was still with the squadron in November 1940. Folliard was commissioned in July 1943, as a Flight Engineer. He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in late 1981 or early 1982. PO 7.7.43 FO 7.1.44

DESMOND FOPP 112448

Sgt

Pilot

Australian

17 Squadron

Born at Cudlee Creek, South Australia on March 13 1920, Fopp was the son of a first generation Australian of German extraction. His father served in the Australian Army, married an English lady and took her back with him. In 1936, after his father’s death, Fopp and his mother returned to Britain. In November 1938 he joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742588) and he carried out his pre-war flying training at 33 E&RFTS at Whitchurch. Fopp was called up at the outbreak of war and completed his training at 2 FTS, Brize Norton on No 44 Course, which ran from December 1 1939 to May 18 1940. He then converted to Hurricanes at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge and joined 17 Squadron at Debden on May 25 1940. On June 8, 17 Squadron moved to France and was based at Dinard, from where it covered the withdrawal of British troops from the ports of St Malo and Cherbourg. The squadron was withdrawn to the Channel Islands on June 17, continuing operations from there in support of the Army. It returned to Debden on the 19th. On July 12 Fopp shared in the destruction of a He 111, shot down into the sea, and on September 3, after damaging a Do 17, he was himself shot down in flames by a Bf 110. Fopp baled out, burned, and landed at Pressey’s Farm, Hutton. His Hurricane, P 3673, crashed and burned out near Handley’s Dairy Farm, Ingrave, Essex. After three months in hospital, Fopp was posted to 2 School of General Reconnaissance, Blackpool, as a staff pilot. Soon afterwards he was involved in a car accident and back in hospital. Commissioned in early November 1941, Fopp joined 132 Squadron at Peterhead in December. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander in May 1942, received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.43) and remained with the squadron until the end of 1943, when he went as Fighter Tactics Liaison Officer to the 8th and 9th USAF. In May 1944 Fopp was posted to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course on Oxfords, after which he went to an AFU at Wrexham. He was awarded the AFC (29.9.44) for getting an aircraft down safely after a mid-air collision. In August 1945 Fopp moved to 12 FTS, Grantham, to instruct on Harvards. Fopp stayed on in the RAF until 1950, when he left to become a civilian instructor, training naval pilots on Mosquitos. He rejoined the RAF in March 1951 and held a series of appointments, latterly concerned with helicopters, prior to retiring on March 13 1975 as a Squadron Leader. He died on August 8 2005.

RONALD HENRY FOKES Sgt

FL 29.11.42

JAMES HENRY FOLLIARD

PO 17.8.40 FO 7.3.42 FL 28.10.42 SL 15.1.43

88439

FO 29.11.41

92 Squadron

Fokes joined the RAFVR on April 10 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740109) and carried out his training at 5 E&RFTS, Hanworth. On March 6 1939 he was given the chance of a period of full-time training with the regular RAF, with 151 Squadron at North Weald. He went to 87 Squadron at Debden on March 24 and was with it until August 7 1939, when he returned to the RAFVR and his week-end flying at 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury. Called up on September 1 1939, Fokes was posted to 4 ITW, Bexhill on December 14 and on January 15 1940 he joined 92 Squadron at Croydon. Over Dunkirk on June 2 1940, Fokes claimed a He 111 destroyed and possibly two more and on July 4 he shared in the destruction of another. Fokes shared a Do 17 on September 10, damaged another on the 15th, probably destroyed a Ju 88 on the 24th, probably a Bf 109 on the 30th, destroyed a He 111 and two Bf 109s on October 15, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 26th, shared a Ju 88 on November 9, destroyed another Bf 109 on the 15th and got a probable Bf 109 on the 17th. Awarded the DFM (15.11.40), Fokes was commissioned in late November. He destroyed Bf 109s on December 5 and 12, damaged a Do 17 on January 23 1941, shared a Ju 87 on February 5 and destroyed a Bf 109 on April 26. Fokes was posted to 53 OTU, Heston on May 1 1941, as an instructor. He went to CFS, Upavon for a course on August 4, after which he returned to Heston on the 24th, this time to 61 OTU. On November 17 1941 Fokes was posted to Fowlmere, to join 154 Squadron, then forming there, as a Flight Commander. He left the squadron on March 26 1942, to join 56 Squadron at Snailwell. Fokes went to Gloster’s on August 26 1942, as a test pilot. He returned to an operational squadron on March 1 1943, joining 93 at Harrowbeer. He was given command of 257 Squadron at Warmwell on July 2 1943. He went on a Fighter Leaders’ Course at Milfield on February 21 1944 and returned to 257, then at Tangmere, on March 11. He was awarded the DFC (10.3.44). Leading the squadron over France on June 12 1944,

PO 3.11.41 FO 21.7.42 FL 21.7.43 FL 1.9.45 FL 10.6.46 SL 1.9.65

ATHOL STANHOPE FORBES 37499

FL

Pilot

British

303 and 66 Squadrons

Forbes was born in Hanover Square, London in 1912. He was educated at Throwthorne Towers, Berkshire and Dover College. In 1935 he joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on November 25, as a pupil pilot. He moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill on February 1 1936. After completing his flying training, Forbes went to the No 1 School of Army Cooperation, Old Sarum, under instruction, and was posted to the School staff on August 28 1937. He left there on July 8 1940, for a refresher course at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. Forbes joined the newly-formed 303 (Polish) Squadron at Northolt on August 4 1940, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. He claimed a Ju 88 destroyed on September 5, a Bf 109 and

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DEREK NIGEL FORDE

another damaged on the 6th, a Do 17 destroyed and another probably destroyed on the 7th, two Do 17s destroyed on the 11th and a He 111 destroyed on the 26th and two on the 27th. He was slightly wounded on September 6, 7 and 11. Promoted to Acting Squadron Leader, Forbes was given command of 66 Squadron at West Malling on October 17. He was awarded the DFC (22.10.40) and the VM (5th Class) (24.12.40), for his services with 303 Squadron. Forbes shared in destroying a He 111 on June 25 1941 and a Bf 109 on August 20. He was posted away in October 1941, to a staff job at HQ 10 Group, Box. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (4.11.41). Awarded the OBE (1.1.44), Forbes was with 165 Wing in the Far East in 1944. He was posted to HQ 221 Group, Burma on August 16 1944 as SASO. He was released from the RAF in 1948 as a Group Captain. Forbes died in 1981. His portrait was done by Eric Kennington in 1940.

41526

Pilot

Canadian

British

145 and 605 Squadrons

With training completed, he joined 145 Squadron from the School of Air Navigation, St Athan on October 10 1939, when 145 was reforming at Croydon. On May 23 1940 Forde shared in probably destroying a Bf 110 over Arras, with a pilot of 92 Squadron. Forde was reported ‘Missing’ on May 27, after being shot down over Dunkirk. Next day he was reported safe at Dover, in care of the Royal Army Medical Corps. He rejoined 145 on May 31. Forde damaged a Ju 87 on August 8 1940 and damaged a Bf 109 on the 11th. He was posted to 605 Squadron at Croydon on September 26 and on October 7 he damaged a Bf 109. He went to No 1 PRU in early 1941 and rejoined 145 Squadron, then at Catterick in late May 1941. Forde was shot down over France on July 23 but appears to have evaded capture and returned to England safely, date unknown. Forde was with 72 Squadron in 1942 and went with it to North Africa in November. He was awarded the DFC (26.2.43), being then credited with at least three enemy aircraft destroyed. On April 24 1943 Forde damaged a Bf 109 in the Pont du Fahs area, Tunisia. He stayed on in the RAF and retired on February 8 1953 as a Squadron Leader. Forde died on January 16 1979.

ERNEST GEORGE FORD PO

Pilot

Born on October 17 1917, Forde joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 6 1938.

APO 20.1.36 PO 25.11.36 FO 25.5.38 FL 25.5.40 SL 1.12.41 WC 1.7.43

81636

FO

3 and 232 Squadrons

Ford was born in Regina, Saskatchewan, the son of English parents. The family returned to England. Ford joined the RAFVR in November 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740878).

APO 14.12.38 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 Having attained the required standard, he was attached to the regular RAF on February 1939, for a six months period of further training. Ford joined 3 Squadron at Kenley and was with it until July 28 1939, when the attachment ceased and he returned to civilian life. Called up on September 1 1939 and being fully trained, he rejoined 3 Squadron, then at Croydon, on September 4 and flew his first operational sortie on the 9th. Ford went to France with the squadron on May 10 1940 and his commission was gazetted on the 15th. On May 12 he probably destroyed a Ju 87 near Louvain, on the 14th destroyed two Ju 87s and on the 19th he destroyed a Do 17. Ford went to Sumburgh, Shetland on July 21 1940 with ‘B’ Flight of 3 Squadron, which was then redesignated 232 Squadron. He rejoined 3 Squadron, then at Castletown, on September 10 1940. He was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on December 3 1940, pending posting to 260 Squadron, also at Castletown, which he joined on December 7, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. Ford was later repatriated to Canada and was killed there, presumably in a flying accident, on December 12 1942 as a Flight Lieutenant. He was 28 and he is buried in Burnsland Cemetery, Calgary.

DUDLEY HENRY FORREST 115218

Pilot

British

British

66 Squadron and 421 Flight

On the 2nd he went to 11 Group Pool, St Athan, where he converted to Blenheims. He joined 604 Squadron at North Weald on September 15. Forrest was detached to the Blenheim Conversion Flight at Hendon on November 21 1939, for night training, after which he rejoined 604. On March 25 1940 Forrest was posted to 145 Squadron at Croydon. He moved on to 263 Squadron at Filton on April 14. The squadron embarked on to the carrier HMS Glorious on the 21st for Norway. Operating from a frozen lake at Lesjaskog, 263 had all its Gladiators rendered unserviceable within three days and returned in the Glorious, reaching Turnhouse on May 3, to reform. Forrest was posted to 66 Squadron at Duxford on May 11 1940. On September 27 he destroyed a Ju 88 in the Biggin Hill area. On October 7 Forrest was posted to 421 Flight at Hawkinge. On November 29 he damaged a Do 17, on December 12 he damaged a Ju 88 and on December 18 he shared in destroying a Do 17 E of Dover. Commissioned in December 1941, Forrest was released from the RAF in 1947 as a Flight Lieutenant.

ROY CLEMENT FORD Sgt

Pilot

Forrest joined the RAFVR about October 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740773) and was almost certainly attached to the regular RAF for training and was fully trained when called up on September 1 1939.

PO 15.5.40 FO 22.2.41 FL 22.2.42

88214

Sgt

41 Squadron PO 31.12.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 31.12.43

Ford joined the RAFVR in June 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741683) and did his flying at 20 E&RFTS, Gravesend.

GEORGE MATHWIN FORRESTER Called up on September 1 1939, he went to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on October 6, for an assessment of his flying capabilities, after which he joined 41 Squadron at Catterick on December 15 1939. Ford probably destroyed a Bf 109 on September 5 1940 and on the 7th he made a forced-landing between Confield Tye and Tinsley’s Farm at West Hanningfield, after a combat. He was unhurt. Commissioned in November 1940, Ford was posted to 4 Delivery Flight, Grangemouth on April 5 1941 but volunteered for the MSFU, then about to be formed at Speke. He joined the unit on May 23 and served in the SS Empire Sun, Empire Shackleton, Empire Heath and Dalton Hall, on North Atlantic and Gibraltar convoys. Ford went to Hawker’s at Langley on June 23 1942 as a production test pilot. He completed 447 ‘first flights’. On June 17 1943 he was posted for a course to No 1 Empire Test Pilots’ School at Boscombe Down, after which he joined 20 MU, Aston Down as a test pilot. Ford was released from the RAF on October 23 1945 and commissioned again in the RAFVR, from September 1947 until May 11 1952, during which time he instructed at 18 Reserve Flying School at Fair Oaks and from April 1948 at 15 RFS, Redhill. He died in 2002.

81369

PO 6.11.40

PO 6.7.40

FO 6.11.41

FL 6.11.42

PO

Pilot British

605 Squadron Born in Newcastle on February 17 1914, Forrester was at Haileybury College from 1927 to 1930. After leaving, he went into business in Portsmouth, where he became an active member of the Rowing Club and Rugby Football Club.

Forrester later moved to Oxford, played for the Exiles RFC and joined the RAFVR about April 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741497). Called to full-time service at the outbreak of war, he completed his flying training at 12 FTS, Grantham on No 8 Course, from March 6 to June 29 1940. He was commissioned on July 6 and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on that day, for a conversion course on to Hurricanes. He joined 605 Squadron at Drem from 6 OTU on August 5. The squadron moved south to Croydon on September 7 and in a late afternoon engagement on the 9th over Alton, Forrester collided with a He 111 of Stab/KG 53. The bomber lost a wing and crashed at Southfield Farm near Chawton. Forrester was killed when his Hurricane, L 2059, crashed at Southwood Farm near Shalden. He is buried in Odiham Cemetery, Hampshire.

FO (RAFVR) 13.9.47

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TERENCE HENRY TRIMBLE FORSHAW 39165

FL

Pilot

British

In mid-July Forsyth went to 5 OTU, Aston Down for conversion to Blenheims and he joined 23 Squadron at Ford on September 21. The squadron began night intruder operations in December 1940 and on March 8 1941 Forsyth’s crew damaged a He 111 and a Do 17. On July 26 1941 Forsyth suffered injuries and burns in a crash during take-off and was admitted to Margate General Hospital and although he rejoined the squadron, he was rested from operations. He was posted to 418 (RCAF) Squadron on December 1 1941, newly-formed at Debden for intruder work. From March 22 1942 it flew night sorties over the Continent, attacking strategic targets and intruding over enemy airfields. Forsyth was awarded the DFM (15.11.42) and commissioned in December. He was posted to 180 Squadron at Foulsham on July 5 1943, operating in Mitchells on daylight raids. He moved to Dunsfold on March 11 1944, to join 98 Squadron, also flying Mitchells. On May 8 1944 Forsyth was one of the crew in an aircraft captained by the CO, Wing Commander R F K Bell-Irving. After attacking the target, the Mitchell had turned for home when it was hit by anti-aircraft fire. The nose was blown off, the aircraft fell from 12,000 to 7,000 feet and then banked and crashed in flames in a field at Cambron, near Abbeville. All aboard were killed. Forsyth is buried in Notre Dame de la Chapelle Cemetery, Abbeville. He was awarded the DFC (12.4.45)

19, 616 and 609 Squadrons

Forshaw was born on August 29 1916 and joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his flying training on August 17 1936. He was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on October 31, completed his training and joined 73 Squadron at Digby on June 30 1937. He moved to the SHQ staff at Digby on February 2 1939. Forshaw was posted from RAF Digby on September 1 1939 and was probably appointed to the staff of 70 Wing, then about to go to France. When the Wing was withdrawn from France in June 1940, Forshaw was still with it. It arrived at Gatwick and on July 2 1940 the Wing was redesignated HQ RAF Gatwick. Forshaw assumed the duties of Station Gas Officer on July 16, became Adjutant, Gatwick on the 29th and assumed duties of President of the Service Institute, Gatwick on the 30th. He relinquished the Station Gas Officer duty on August 6 and the duties of PSI and Transport Officer on August 12, when he was attached to RAF Odiham, to supervise flying discipline of Free French personnel, who were with No 1 Fighter Training Squadron of the Free French Air Force there. Forshaw’s attachment ceased on his being posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden, where he converted to Spitfires before joining 19 Squadron at Fowlmere on September 2 1940. He moved to 616 Squadron at Coltishall on the 5th and finally joined 609 Squadron at Middle Wallop on the 9th. Forshaw damaged a Do 17 on the 26th, claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on the 27th and probably destroyed a Bf 110 on October 7 1940. He was appointed a Flight Commander on November 29 and was rested in April 1941. On a night interception on December 18 1941, Forshaw crashed into the sea off Newburn, Scotland, in Spitfire P 8796. He was injured. No further details are known of his service. Forshaw retired from the RAF on November 29 1957 as a Squadron Leader. He later went to live in South Africa.

PO 3.12.42 FO 3.6.43

RONALD VICTOR FORWARD 172323

Sgt

Pilot

British

257 Squadron

APO 12.10.36 PO 17.8.37 FO 17.5.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41 SL 1.8.47 Born in Millport, on the island of Great Cumbrae, Firth of Clyde, Forward was a clerk with British Thomson-Houston, when he joined the RAFVR in August 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741971). He did his pre-war flying at 12 E&RFTS, at Prestwick.

ANTHONY DOUGLAS FORSTER 90290

FO

Pilot

British

151 and 607 Squadrons

Born at Bishop Middleham, Durham on April 17 1914, Forster was educated at Durham School, where he was a King’s Scholar.

Called up on September 1 1939, Forward went to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 16 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 11 1940. He joined 257 Squadron, then being reformed at Hendon, on May 17. He and Sergeants R H B Fraser and A G Girdwood were the first three pilots to arrive. On a dawn patrol on July 9 Forward intercepted a Do 17. He fired all his ammunition, without any apparent result and made no claim. The enemy aircraft finally crashed near Antwerp. On July 28 Forward’s Hurricane, P 3622, was seriously damaged in combat with Bf 109s over the Channel, off Dover, and he made a crash-landing at Hawkinge, slightly injured, writing the aircraft off. His last three flights, two of them operational sorties, were made on August 12. Soon afterwards Forward was rested and he did not return to operational flying. Commissioned in March 1944 in the Admin Branch, he was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flying Officer. Forward died in 1993.

In March 1938 Forster joined 607 Squadron, AAF and was commissioned in May. Called to full-time service on August 24 1939, he completed his training and went with 607 Squadron to France in November. On May 10 1940 Forster, claimed two He 111s destroyed, another shared and another damaged. On the 11th he damaged two Ju 88s. The squadron was withdrawn from France to Croydon on the 21st. Forster was with 151 Squadron at North Weald by May 25 1940. On July 9 he damaged a Bf 110, on the 15th damaged a Do 17 and on the 29th he damaged a Bf 110. He was awarded the DFC (30.7.40), the citation crediting him with six enemy aircraft destroyed, including four in France. On August 15 Forster rejoined 607 Squadron, then at Usworth. The squadron moved south to Tangmere in early September 1940. On the 14th Forster shared in damaging a Ju 88. Five days later he was taken off flying for medical reasons and did not rejoin the squadron until late November. He was made a Flight Commander but on December 15 he was posted away to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course. In February 1941 Forster joined the staff at 10 FTS, Ternhill and was there until December 1942, when he went for a course at the Empire CFS at Hullavington. He then went to Canada and became Chief Instructor at North Battleford and Kingston. He returned to the UK in May 1945 and was released later in the year. Forster rejoined the RAF in June 1946, with a Permanent Commission. He held a number of appointments and commands before his retirement on April 24 1962, as a Wing Commander.

APO 16.3.44 FO 11.5.44

ROBERT WILLIAM FOSTER 80815

Air Gunner

New Zealander

British

605 Squadron

Called up on September 2, Foster went to No 1 ITW, Cambridge on November 10 and moved to 12 FTS, Grantham on December 30. After completing his flying training, he arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 3 1940, to convert to Hurricanes. Commissioned on the 9th, Foster joined 605 Squadron at Drem on July 8. In a combat on September 27, Foster damaged a Bf 110. With his aircraft damaged, he made a forced-landing at Gatwick. Next day he damaged a Ju 88. On October 7 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed, on the 8th a Ju 88 shared, on the 15th a probable Bf 109 and on October 26 and November 8 Bf 109s damaged. On March 24 1941 he damaged a He 111. In September 1941 Foster went to 55 OTU, Usworth, as an instructor. On April 14 1942 he joined 54 Squadron, as a Flight Commander. The squadron left for overseas in June, embarking in HMT F6 on the 19th for Australia,

COLIN LEO MALCOLM FORSYTH Sgt

Pilot

Foster was born in Clapham, South London on May 14 1920. He worked for Shell and BP after leaving school and on May 1 1939 he joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748045).

PO (AAF) 31.5.38 PO 24.8.39 FO 30.11.39 FL 30.11.40 SL 1.12.41 WC 1.7.47

NZ 40607

PO

23 Squadron

Forsyth was born in Tauranga on February 11 1914. He was educated at Te Kuiti District High School and was employed at the Oropi saw mills. He volunteered for aircrew duties in late 1939 and began his training at Weraroa on February 12 1940. Forsyth completed a Lewis gunnery course at Ohakea and sailed from Auckland for the UK in the RMS Rangitiki in late April. After arriving on June 8 1940, he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting.

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REGINALD JOHN FOWLER

to take part in defence against the Japanese. 54 arrived on September 7 1942 and was based at Richmond, New South Wales. On January 17 1943 it moved to Night Cliff, Darwin. Foster got the squadron’s first victory on February 6, a Mitsubishi Dinah. Between March 15 and July 6 1943 he destroyed four Mitsubishi Bettys, probably destroyed two others and damaged a Betty and a Zeke. He was awarded the DFC (13.8.43). On February 2 1944 Foster left Australia for the UK. He joined the Air Information Unit on April 29th and went with it to the Continent on July 1. He was posted to HQ Fighter Command on October 7 1944, staying there until June 11 1945, when he went to RAF Bentwaters, initially as Adjutant and later becoming Senior Admin Officer. Foster was released from the RAF on February 27 1947 as a Squadron Leader. He resumed his career with Shell and BP and served with 3163 Fighter Control Unit, RAuxAF from 1948 until March 10 1957, when the RAuxAF was disbanded. He became Chairman of the Battle of Britain Fighter Association in 2009. Foster died on July 30 2014 after several months of illness. His funeral in Hastings was overflown by Hurricane R 4118, which he had flown in action in the Battle of Britain.

120330

Sgt

Pilot

British

247 Squadron

Fowler joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754439), and did his pre-war training at 22 E&RFTS, Cambridge. He was called up on September 1 and completed his training at 3 FTS, South Cerney on No 31 Course, which ran from from November 20 1939 to May 20 1940. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 21. Fowler crashed in Spitfire P 9500 on the 29th and was admitted to Yatesbury Hospital. He joined 247 Squadron at Roborough on August 16, a Gladiator unit, for the day and night defence of Plymouth. He was with the squadron until May 1941. On September 13 1941 he flew a Hurricane off HMS Ark Royal to Malta, to join 126 Squadron. He was with 1435 Flight there in December 1941. Commissioned from Flight Sergeant in March 1942, Fowler was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 22.3.42 FO 22.9.42 FL 22.3.44

PO 9.6.40 FO 9.6.41 FL 9.6.42

LAWRENCE FOX

ALAN COOK FOTHERINGHAM 754241

Sgt

Pilot

British

1002697

29 Squadron

PETER HUTTON FOX 754399

New Zealander

Sgt

Pilot

British

56 Squadron

Fox was born in Bridlington on January 23 1921 and educated at Warwick School. He joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot and began his flying training at 26 E&RFTS, Kidlington. Called up on September 1, Fox went to 13 EFTS, White Waltham on March 28 1940 and moved to 10 EFTS, Yatesbury on May 28. Advanced training was carried out at 8 FTS, Montrose, on No 20 Course, which ran from June 10 to August 31 1940. Fox arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down, to convert to Hurricanes on September 1 and then joined 56 Squadron at Boscombe Down on September 17 1940. Fox was shot down in combat with Do 17s and Bf 110s over the Portland area on September 30. He crashed at Okeford Fitzpaine, in Hurricane N 2434, wounded in the leg and was admitted to Tidworth Military Hospital. On November 16 Fox and Pilot Officer M R Ingle-Finch were flying to Kidlington in a Magister, when they crashed near Tidworth. Both were injured and admitted to Tidworth Hospital. On June 28 1941 Fox joined 234 Squadron at Warmwell. He was shot down over France on October 20 1941 and captured. He was sometime at Camp 357 (PoW No 24442). Freed on April 16 1945, Fox left the RAF in 1946 as a Warrant Officer. He died on June 10 2005.

ALFRED LAWRENCE FOWLER Pilot

British

He flew his first operational sortie on October 8 and his second, and final, sortie on the 13th. By early December 1940 Fox was no longer with 29 Squadron. Fox was promoted to Warrant Officer on October 1 1942. No further service details traced.

He then joined 3 Squadron at Dyce and flew his first operational sortie on October 19, from Castletown. Fotheringham was with 46 Squadron at Digby in December 1940 and joined 615 Squadron at Kenley on December 28 1940. On a Rhubarb operation over Holland on February 15 1941, Fotheringham was shot down over Vlissingen, in Hurricane V 7651, and captured. At some time he was in Stalag Luft 6, Heydekrug (PoW No 496). Freed in May 1945, Fotheringham was released from the RAF later in the year as a Warrant Officer.

PO

Radar Operator

Fox joined the RAFVR about June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. He probably volunteered for aircrew duties and went to Yatesbury for a short radar course, after which he joined 29 Squadron at Digby in early October.

Fotheringham joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called to full-time service on September 1, he completed his training and appears to have been at 5 OTU until October 3 1940.

42116

AC 1

3 Squadron

248 Squadron

Fowler was born at Foxton on June 21 1918. He was educated at Foxton and Levin District High School and after leaving qualified as an electrician. From October 1937 he worked as a Neon sign erector. In June 1938 Fowler applied for an RAF short service commission, was provisionally accepted and sailed for the UK in the RMS Tainui on February 1 1939. He began his elementary training at 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury on March 16 1939, as a pupil pilot. He went on to 5 FTS, Sealand on May 30 for No 40 Course. After high-dive and lowlevel bombing exercises at Aldergrove, the course ended and Fowler joined 248 Squadron at Hendon on November 6 1939. Originally in Fighter Command, the squadron went over to Coastal Command in February 1940. On May 15 Fowler was detached from 248 to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton, rejoining date is unknown. 248 was seconded to Fighter Command during the Battle of Britain. On October 3 1940 Fowler was on a North Sea patrol. He engaged a Do 215. Although wounded in the hand, face and eyes, he pressed home his attacks until the enemy broke off the engagement. He then flew his badly damaged aircraft back to base. A radio message was picked up from the Dornier, reporting that it was returning to base, badly damaged and with members of its crew killed and injured. For this action Fowler was awarded the DFC (24.1.41). In June 1941 he was posted to 119 Squadron at Bowmore for Catalina training. In July he joined 413 (RCAF) Squadron at Stranraer, then forming to carry out general reconnaissance. On August 23 Fowler took off from Loch Ryan, on night-flying practice. A few seconds after take-off from the water, the aircraft crashed. Two of the crew were saved but Fowler was lost. He is buried in the Glebe Cemetery, Stranraer. A subsequent Court of Enquiry found that the crash could have been caused by incorrect positioning of the elevator trimming tab control and recommended that illumination should be provided for night use. All Catalina units were so advised.

DENNIS HUMBERT FOX-MALE 78660

PO

Pilot

British

152 Squadron

Fox-Male was born on June 28 1915 at Oxshott, Surrey. He was educated at Wellington College and Trinity College, Oxford, where he read Jurisprudence. On November 1 1934 he joined the University Air Squadron and remained with it until July 26 1936. After leaving Oxford, Fox-Male qualified and practiced as a solicitor. He was called to full-time service with the RAFVR on March 15 1940 and commissioned. He was posted to 7 EFTS, Desford on April 12, to complete his elementary flying training. He moved on to RAF College FTS at Cranwell on June 10 and with the course completed, he went on to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 7. Having converted to Spitfires, he joined 152 Squadron at Warmwell on September 29 1940. Fox-Male left the squadron on July 9 1941, to become an instructor at 59 OTU, Crosby-on-Eden.

APO 12.5.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40

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CLARENCE WILLIAM FRANCIS

He returned to operations on April 20 1942, when he was posted to 242 Squadron at Turnhouse. On May 12 he was sent for a course to the Pilot Gunnery Instructors’ Training Wing at CGS, Sutton Bridge and afterwards rejoined 242, then at Drem. Fox-Male went with 242 Squadron to North Africa on September 8 1942 and remained with it until March 5 1943. Released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant, Fox-Male resumed his legal practice and was a partner in a firm of London solicitors when he retired to Guernsey in 1975. Fox-Male died there on April 1 1986.

115712

Sgt

Pilot

British

Francis joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748524). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on No 6 Course, which ran from December 29 1939 to June 10 1940. He then went to 5 OTU, Aston Down and after a conversion course on to Spitfires, Francis was posted to 74 Squadron at Rochford on June 24. His last flight with it was made on July 28 1940. Commissioned in January 1942, Francis was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant.

APO 15.3.40 PO 7.9.40 FO 7.9.41 FL 7.9.42

CHRISTOPHER NEIL FOXLEY-NORRIS 70225

FO

Pilot

British

74 Squadron

111 and 3 Squadrons

Born on March 16 1917 in Birkenhead, Foxley-Norris, the son of a solicitor who was a Captain and Adjutant in the 3rd Battalion the Cheshire Regiment. C N Foxley-Norris was educated at Winchester College and Trinity College, Oxford, where he read Greats. He belonged to the University Air Squadron.

PO 6.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 6.1.44

COLIN DUNSTONE FRANCIS 42211

PO

Pilot

British

253 Squadron

Francis, of Stoke d’Abernon, Surrey, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 1 1939, as a pupil pilot. He completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 12 Course, which ran from July 10 to December 9 1939.

He was granted a commission in Class ‘AA’ of the RAFO on December 22 1936. Foxley-Norris relinquished this on being granted a commission in the RAFVR on December 14 1938. In 1939 he won a Harmsworth Scholarship to the Middle Temple. Foxley-Norris was called up in early September 1939 and posted to 9 FTS, Hullavington. With training completed, he went to the School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum and then joined 13 Squadron at Douai in France. Back in England, after the collapse of France, Foxley-Norris volunteered for Fighter Command and he was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 7 1940, to convert to Hurricanes. He joined 111 Squadron at Drem on September 29 but this was an error and he went to 3 Squadron at Turnhouse on September 30 1940 and moved to 615 Squadron at Northolt on November 19. On February 26 1941 Foxley-Norris was jumped by Bf 109s and shot down in flames. He baled out, landing near Ashridge, Kent, where he met with a hostile reception from the local population. In June 1941 Foxley-Norris was posted to CFS, Upavon for an instructor’s course, after which he went to 10 FTS, Ternhill. He was later posted to Canada, to instruct in the Air Training Scheme. In early 1943 Foxley-Norris went to Ferry Command, to fly Hudsons across the Atlantic. He was with 143 Squadron at North Coates in mid 1943, flying Beaufighters on antishipping duties, as a Flight Commander. After being court-martialled for an alleged breach of security and acquitted, FoxleyNorris was posted to 252 Squadron in the Middle East, remaining with it until September 23 1943, when he was posted to 603 Squadron at Gambut, to command ‘A’ Flight. He later took command of the squadron and led it until its formal disbandment at Gambut on December 26 1944. The personnel sailed from Port Said, in the Capetown Castle, and arrived at Liverpool on January 6 1945, then went on to Coltishall. Foxley-Norris was given command of 143 Squadron, then part of the Banff Mosquito Strike Wing. He was awarded the DSO (25.9.45), the same month that he was granted a permanent commission. . In a long and distinguished post-war career, Foxley-Norris held various appointments and commands, including command of the Oxford University Air Squadron, appointments at HQ Far East and HQ Fighter Command, command of fighter stations and Commanderin-Chief, Germany. He retired on April 22 1974, as an Air Chief Marshal. He was made OBE (2.1.56), CB (1966), KCB (1969) and GCB (1973). He became Chairman of the Battle of Britain Fighter Association in 1978. He was also for six years Chairman of the Cheshire Homes founded by his friend from university Leonard Cheshire VC. Foxley-Norris died on September 28 2003. At the National Memorial to The Few at Capel-le-Ferne, the Christopher Foxley-Norris Memorial Wall features the names of the Allied airmen who flew in the Battle.

Francis’ posting after FTS is not known but he arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 2 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 253 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on June 17. After a spell in Scotland, the squadron moved to Kenley on August 29 1940. On the morning of the 30th Francis took off in a section of three aircraft, to join the rest of the squadron in attacking a force of bombers, which were escorted by some thirty fighters, his first encounter with the Luftwaffe. In the action he was shot down and reported ‘Missing’. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 8. In August 1981 an aircraft was excavated at Wrotham, on land which had been Percival’s Farm in 1940. It proved to be Hurricane L 1965 and the remains of Francis were still in the cockpit. They were buried with military honours at Brookwood Military Cemetery. Francis was 19 when he was killed. APO 24.6.39 PO 16.12.39

DOUGLAS NORMAN FRANCIS 745507

Sgt

Pilot

British

3 and 257 Squadrons

Francis joined the RAFVR about April 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called to full-time service on September 1 1939, he completed his training and he was at 5 OTU, Aston Down from August 17 to 31 1940, where he converted to Hurricanes. Francis joined 3 Squadron at Wick in early September. He flew two operational sorties with the squadron and was then posted away and joined 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on September 13. He flew his only recorded operational sortie with 257 Squadron on September 16 1940, a patrol, with no interceptions. No further service details traced. Francis died on January 7 1961.

JOHN FRANCIS 528890

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

23 Squadron

Francis joined the RAF in February 1936, as an Aircrafthand. It would seem that he remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner after the outbreak of war.

PO (RAFO) 22.12.36 PO (RAFVR) 14.12.38 PO 9.9.39 FO 3.11.39 FL 17.3.41 SL 1.6.42 SL 1.9.45 WC 1.7.51 GC 1.7.57 AC 1.7.61 AVM 1.1.64 AM 1.7.68 ACM 1.12.70

With training completed, he was on 23 Squadron at Collyweston by June 4 1940, as a Corporal. He was promoted to Sergeant in July. Francis was last mentioned in the Squadron ORB on August 30 1940. No further service details traced.

NOEL INGLIS CHALMERS FRANCIS 40817

FO

Pilot

British

247 Squadron

Francis, of Brighton, Sussex, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio flying course on April 4 1938, as a pupil pilot. Francis’s first posting after he had completed his training is unknown but there is a possibility that it was to a Battle squadron, which went to France after the outbreak of war.

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In November 1939 a section from 152 Squadron, flying Gladiators, was detached to Sumburgh for defence of the Shetland Islands and in December 1939 became Fighter Flight Shetlands. In January 1940 it was redesignated Fighter Flight Sumburgh. Francis joined the Flight from France on May 20 1940. The unit moved south to Roborough on July 21, stopping overnight at Turnhouse. After settling in at its new station, the Flight was brought up to full squadron strength and redesignated 247 Squadron on August 1 1940, as part of 10 Group, for the defence of Plymouth. At St Eval on November 22, Francis crashed on take-off. His Gladiator, N 5649, was written off. Francis was killed on December 9 1941, aged 23. His unit at the time of his death is unknown. He is buried in St Peter’s churchyard, Stoke-upon-Tern, Shropshire.

Observation Flight which was equipped with Aero A-11 and Letov S-328 aircraft. Following fighter pilot training he was posted, in June 1938, to 40 Fighter Flight, based at PragueKbely, flying Avia B-534 and Bk-534 fighter aircraft. When the Germans marched into Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939 Frantisek is said to have machine-gunned columns of troops. On June 13 he escaped to Poland by being smuggled over the border, near Szumbark, by train. He reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate in Krakow and then travelled on the Gdynia where he was due to board the Kastelholm. On July 13, as they were boarding, he, and a group of Czech airmen, were addressed by Polish officials seeking to convince them to remain and join the Polish Air Force. Frantisek together with some other Czech airmen decided to remain in Poland whilst the rest boarded the ship and travelled to France. Frantisek and his group went to Deblin airbase where he joined the PAF and retrained as a flying instructor with the Observer Training Squadron at 1 Air Force Officers’ Training Centre on the airbase. Here he flew a range of aircraft, all of which were obsolete when compared with the modern fighters he had flown with the Czech Air Force. When the Germans invaded the Deblin airbase was the target of a large air raid. After this raid serviceable aircraft were flown to Gora Pulawska in south-east Poland. During the struggle against the invasion, Frantisek, now based at Sosnowice Wielke airfield, seems to have flown only on reconnaissance operations in unarmed aircraft although he is recorded as having attacked the advancing German troops by dropping hand grenades on them. On September 22 1939 Frantisek’s unit was ordered to withdraw with their aircraft to Romania. Here, together with many Polish airmen, he was interned but he, with a large number of these airmen, escaped. They travelled to Constanta and, on October 2, they boarded the Dacia which took them to Beirut, via the Bosporus, Istanbul, the Dardanelles, Athens, Alexandria and Haifa. The Czechs were met by representatives of the Czechoslovak Embassy who advised them to join the French Foreign Legion, the only alternative was being deported back to German occupied Czechoslovakia. All agreed to join and were transferred to the nearby Legion barracks. Here they were enrolled and assigned to training units. A week later they boarded the Theophile Gautier which took them to Marseilles. Shortly after their arrival a Polish sergeant recognised their Polish decorations and arranged for their release from the Legion into the Polish Air Force in France. However, Frantisek and the others wanted to join the Czech Air Force in exile and sought help from the Czech Air Attaché who discredited them as deserters from the Legion. The police were called but because the airmen had legitimate Polish ID cards they were not arrested. As a result of this incident Frantisek and the others refused to serve in the Czech Air Force, preferring to remain in the Polish Air Force and Frantisek was posted to the airbase at Clermont Ferand. Although all official records of his service in France have been lost or destroyed, witnesses claim that he shot down nine German aircraft and destroyed two more on the ground. It is possible that he, like other Polish and Czech airmen, was flying under an assumed name to protect his family back in Czechoslovakia. His assumed name is not known. After the collapse of France, Frantisek went to England. He chose to continue flying with the Polish forces and he went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool and then joined 303 Squadron at Northolt on August 2 1940. He converted to Hurricanes on the squadron. On August 8, following a training flight, and being used to fixed undercarriage aircraft, he landed his Hurricane with its wheels up. He was unhurt and the aircraft was repaired. On September 2 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed, on the 3rd another, on the 5th a Bf 109 and a Ju 88, on the 6th a Bf 109. As a result of this encounter Frantisek’s aircraft suffered substantial damage and he crash landed in a field, near Falmer. On the 9th Frantisek shot down a Bf 109 and a He 111, on the 11th two Bf 109s and a He 111, on the 15th a Bf 109, on the 18th a Bf 109, on the 26th two He 111s, on the 27th a He 111, and a Bf 110, and on the 30th a Bf 109 and probably another. He was awarded the DFM on September 17 and was decorated by the King at Northolt on October 1. During a routine patrol on October 8 Frantisek was killed, when his Hurricane, R 4175, crashed at Cuddington Way, Ewell, Surrey, after he clipped his wing tip on a tree. He is buried in Northwood Cemetery, Middlesex. Frantisek was awarded the VM (5th Class) (23.12.40), the KW and three Bars (1.2.41) and the Czech Military Cross (15.7.41). His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in September 1940.

APO 4.6.38 PO 4.4.39 FO 3.9.40

WALTER DERRICK KERR FRANKLIN 40217

FO

Pilot

British

74 Squadron

Franklin, from Jamaica, joined the RAF on August 23 1937 on a short service commission and began his elementary flying course at 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick as a pupil pilot On October 24 he was posted to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, for a short induction course, after which he continued training at 9 FTS, Hullavington. With training completed, he joined 142 Squadron at Andover on August 20 1938. On September 2 1939 the squadron flew its Battles out to France. It suffered heavy losses in May 1940 and was withdrawn to Waddington on June 15. Franklin volunteered for Fighter Command and on August 21 he joined 74 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey. On September 24 he shared in damaging a Do 17 and claimed a Ju 87 destroyed on November 14. On December 30 1940 Franklin was posted to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course. He was instructing until 1945, when he went for a course at the Empire Test Pilots’ School at Cranfield, after which he was posted to Farnborough. Franklin resigned his commission in 1947 and he returned to Jamaica, to run the familyowned hotel, which he eventually owned. He later sold it and returned to England. APO 24.10.37 PO 23.8.38 FO 23.4.40 FL 23.4.41

WILLIAM HENRY FRANKLIN 44753

PO

Pilot

British

65 Squadron

Franklin was born on October 2 1911 in Poplar, London and went to Thomas Street Central School, Limehouse. His father was killed in the First World War. Franklin joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice, in January 1929 (562984) and passed out in December 1931, as a Fitter, Aero Engines. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. With flying training completed, he joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch in 1937, as a Sergeant-Pilot. At the outbreak of war Franklin was a Flight Sergeant still with 65 Squadron at Hornchurch. In the latter part of May 1940 the squadron was operating in the Calais/Dunkirk area from Kirton-in-Lindsey. On the 22nd Franklin shared in the probable destruction of a Ju 88, on the 24th he shared a Hs 126, on the 26th destroyed a Bf 109 and a Bf 110, on the 27th destroyed a Ju 88 and shared a Do 17, on the 28th shared another Do 17 and on June 25 he destroyed two Bf 109s N of Abbeville. Franklin was awarded the DFM (9.7.40). At the start of the Battle of Britain 65 Squadron was again at Hornchurch. Between July 7 and August 16 Franklin destroyed eight Bf 109s, damaged another and damaged a Do 17. He was awarded a Bar to the DFM (13.8.40). Franklin was posted to RAF Hornchurch on August 20, as non-effective sick. He rejoined 65 on October 13 and was commissioned on that day. In the afternoon of December 12 1940, Franklin and three other pilots of 65 intercepted a Ju 88 of 4 (F)/121 over the Channel, off Selsey. He was one of two pilots who failed to return. The Ju 88 regained its base and reported two Spitfires shot down. Franklin is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 8. Franklin Road, Elm Park, Hornchurch was named in his honour. PO 13.10.40

ROBERT HENRY BRAUND FRASER JOSEF FRANTISEK 793451

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

741810

Sgt

Pilot

British

257 Squadron

303 Squadron Fraser, of Glasgow, joined the RAFVR in July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He did his pre war elementary flying training at 12 E&RFTS, at Prestwick.

Frantisek was born at Dolni, Otaslavice on October 7 1912. He enlisted in the Czech Air Force in October 1930 and, in 1934, volunteered to join the Air Training School at Prostejov. In 1935 he was serving in 1 Air Regiment. In 1936, he completed his training and was posted to 2 Air Regiment which was based at Olomouc. He was attached to 5

Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 16 Course, which ran from November 16 1939 to May 11 1940.

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PETER FOSTER FREER

On the 17th he joined 257 Squadron at Hendon, then about to be reformed there. Fraser and Sergeants R V Forward and A G Girdwood were the first pilots to arrive. On September 3 1940 Fraser probably destroyed a Bf 110 near North Weald. He was shot down and killed on October 22, in combat with Bf 109s over Folkestone. His Hurricane, V 6851, crashed and burned out at Moat Farm, Shadoxhurst. Fraser was 20. He is buried in Craigton Cemetery, Glasgow. On April 4 2013 a memorial stone commemorating Fraser was unveiled close to the crash site on private land.

65990

FO

Pilot

British

Pilot

British

29 Squadron

Freer, of Cottingham, near Hull, attended Hallbank Primary School and Hymers College. He joined the RAFVR in June 1938 as an Airman u/t Pilot (741695). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 11 FTS, Shawbury on No 14 Course, which ran from September 27 to November 18 1939 and was a special course to complete advanced training of RAFVR Airmen u/t Pilots. Freer joined 611 Squadron at Digby on November 20 and was posted from there to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down, arriving there on December 11 1939. After converting to Blenheims, he was posted to 29 Squadron at Debden on January 12 1940. Commissioned in April 1941. Freer was killed on May 11 1941, aged 22 and still serving with 29 Squadron. He is buried in Cottingham Cemetery, Haltemprice, Yorkshire.

JOHN CONNELL FREEBORN 70854

Sgt

74 Squadron

Freeborn was born in Middleton, Yorkshire on December 1 1919. He joined the RAFO and began his ab initio course on January 17 1938, as a pupil pilot. He was granted a commission on March 26.

PO 24.4.41

LAURENCE ERIC FREESE He went on to 8 FTS, Montrose on April 9 and with his training completed, he joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on October 29 1938. Freeborn relinquished his RAFO commission on being granted a short service one in the RAF on January 17 1939. Three days after the outbreak of war, the squadron was scrambled. Freeborn and Flying Officer V G Byrne dived to attack what they thought were Bf 109s but were in fact Hurricanes of 56 Squadron. They shot down two, killing one of the pilots. This incident became known as ‘The Battle of Barking Creek’. Freeborn and Byrne came up before a General Court Martial on October 7 1939 and were acquitted. On May 21 1940 Freeborn claimed a probable Ju 88, on the 22nd he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88, on the 24th got a probable Bf 109 and on the 27th a Bf 109 destroyed and probably another. During the Battle of Britain, Freeborn claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on July 10, shared a probable Do 17 on the 24th, shot down a Bf 109 on the 28th, destroyed a Bf 109 and probably destroyed another and two Bf 110s on August 11, destroyed a Do 17 on the 13th, destroyed another on September 11 and damaged a He 111 on the 14th. Freeborn was awarded the DFC (13.8.40). He had been appointed temporary ‘A’ Flight Commander on August 8 1940, when Sailor Malan was given command of the squadron. Freeborn’s appointment was made permanent on August 14 and he was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on the 28th. He damaged a Bf 109 on October 20, shared a Bf 109 on November 17, shot down two Bf 109s, shared another and damaged a fourth on December 5 and damaged Do 17s on February 5 and March 4 1941. Freeborn was awarded a Bar to the DFC (25.2.41) and posted away to 57 OTU on June 6 1941, as an instructor. Whilst there he did an instructor’s course at CFS, Upavon. In January 1942 he was posted to South East Training Command of the USAAF at Selma, Alabama, as RAF Liaison Officer. He was later at Eglin Field, Florida, where he tested various aircraft, including the Mustang and the Thunderbolt. He returned to the UK in December 1942, was at Harrowbeer, Exeter and then at Bolt Head, as Station Commander. In February 1943 he joined 602 Squadron at Perranporth, as a supernumerary, mainly leading the squadron in escorting Lancaster and Halifax bombers to attack Brest. On June 1 1943 Freeborn was given command of 118 Squadron at Coltishall, leading it until January 1944. He then served at 61 OTU, Rednal and later 57 OTU, Eshott, before he was posted to Italy to be Wing Commander Flying of 286 Wing. Freeborn was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Wing Commander. He went on to the RAFO, underwent flying training at Doncaster and left the RAFO in 1954. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde. He died on August 28 2010.

742568

Sgt

Pilot

British

611 and 74 Squadrons

Freese, of Ilford, Essex, joined the RAFVR about November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 49 Course, which ran from June 16 to September 7 1940. He was at 7 OTU, Hawarden from September 7 to 29, where he converted to Spitfires, after which he joined 611 Squadron at Ternhill. Freese joined 74 Squadron at Biggin Hill on October 26. On November 14 he destroyed a Ju 87 and damaged another and on the 15th he destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another. On January 10 1941, the squadron went on an antishipping strike but were sent too far and ran out of fuel on the return trip. Freese was fatally injured, attempting to make a forced-landing at Detling, when his fuel ran out. Freese was 24 and is buried in Rippleside Cemetery, Barking, Essex.

THOMAS LENNOX FRENCH 65991

Sgt

Pilot

British

29 Squadron

French joined the RAFVR about January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742936). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 44 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to June 10 1940. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 22. After converting to Blenheims, he joined 29 Squadron at Digby on July 8. He served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain and was still with it on December 8 1940. Commissioned in April 1941, French died on December 14 1942, aged 24. The unit he was with is not known, nor the circumstances of his death. French is buried in Corstorphine Hill Cemetery, Edinburgh. His brother, Pilot Officer R J Lennox-French, went ‘Missing’ on an operation to Hamburg on May 18 1940. He was 28 and flying as aircrew in Hudsons from Bircham Newton. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial. PO 24.4.41 FO 24.4.42

APO (RAFO) 26.3.38 PO 17.1.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.1.44 FL (RAFO) 1.9.45

JULIUSZ FREY

RICHARD POWELL FREEMAN 812312

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

P O322

FL

Pilot

Polish

607 Squadron

29 Squadron

Freeman joined 500 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand. He was called up on August 24 1939, remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and with training completed he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down for Blenheim training.

Born in Poland on July 14 1907, Frey was in the PAF before the war and in September 1939 was commanding 114 Eskadra in IV/1 Dyon of the Dispositional Air Force. On the 1st Frey shared in the destruction of a German aircraft and on the 6th he claimed a He 111 destroyed.

He joined 29 Squadron at Digby from 5 OTU on August 7 1940. He flew his first operational sortie with the squadron on August 13. He flew four sorties during the Battle of Britain period. Freeman carried out radar training and by November 1940 he was operating as a radar operator and was still with 29 Squadron on December 8 1940. No further service details traced.

Nothing has been found of Frey’s history between his leaving Poland in 1939 and his arriving at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 25 1940, to convert to Hurricanes. Frey joined 607 Squadron at Turnhouse on October 11 1940. On the 23rd he damaged Hurricane P 3962 in a landing mishap. He was posted to 303 Squadron at Leconfield on November 12, as a joint Flight Commander. He took full command of his flight on January

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JOFFRE HARRY FRIPP

1 1941, when the British Flight Commanders were posted away. Frey went to Pembrey on February 19 1941, to form and command 316 (Polish) Squadron. He destroyed a Bf 109 on July 24, when the squadron escorted Hampdens in Operation ‘Sunrise’. He was posted to 16 FTS, Newton on August 10 1941, as CO Training Squadron. In early January 1942, he was at the Polish Depot, Blackpool. Frey was awarded the KW (19.2.42). He was sent to CFS, Upavon on March 1 1942 for an instructor’s course, after which he returned to Newton. On November 17 1942 Frey went to 51 OTU, Cranfield, to convert to Mosquitos and he joined 418 (RCAF) Squadron at Ford on March 18 1943, a night intruder unit. On May 27 he went to 52 OTU, Aston Down for an intruder course, then to CGS, Sutton Bridge, rejoining 418 Squadron in late June. Frey returned to Blackpool on December 28 1943, was posted to HQ ADGB on August 8 1944 and moved to HQ Fighter Command on December 18. He was released in 1946 and later settled in Canada. Frey was awarded two more Bars to the KW (31.10.47).

120212

Sgt

Pilot

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

Fripp later joined 248 Squadron and is first mentioned in the squadron’s ORB on June 6 1940. He served with 248 throughout the Battle of Britain and was still with the squadron on November 3 1940. Commissioned in April 1942, Fripp was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He was commissioned in the RAFVR in September 1949. Fripp died in 1973. PO 8.4.42 FO 8.10.42 FL 8.4.44 FO (RAFVR) 8.9.49

EDWARD MURRAY FRISBY 90507

FO

Pilot

25 Squadron

APO (AAF) 31.10.38 FO 3.9.40

British

PO (AAF) 14.5.39

PO 28.9.39

ERIC THOMAS GEORGE FRITH 742091

Sgt

Pilot

British

611 and 92 Squadrons

Frith, of Cowley, was born in 1914 and educated at Bedford House and Southfields, Oxford. He worked for Morris Motors Ltd.

ALFRED HENRY BASIL FRIENDSHIP Pilot

504 Squadron

He served with 504 throughout the Battle of Britain and on September 27 he damaged a Bf 110. He was killed on December 5 1941 as a Flight Lieutenant. His unit at the time of his death is not known. Frisby is buried at St Cuthbert’s church, Great Glen, Leicestershire.

In the evening of December 7 1940 Friend was one of the crew of Blenheim L 1235, which took off from Wittering, detailed to check the black-out over Peterborough. During the patrol, the weather deteriorated and a bad storm developed. In very bad visibility, the Blenheim collided with an aircraft which had been training pilots in night landings at Peterborough aerodrome. Friend and the pilot, Flight Lieutenant J McC M Hughes were both killed and the radar operator, Sergeant F Blenkharn, was seriously injured. All six men in the other aircraft lost their lives. The Blenheim crashed near Elton, Northamptonshire. Friend was 26. He is buried in All Saints’ churchyard, Wittering.

PO

British

Frisby, of Cropston, Leicestershire, joined 504 Squadron, AAF in 1938 and was commissioned in October. He was called to full-time service on September 28 1939.

Friend, of Norwich, joined the RAFVR in October 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. He went to 25 Squadron at North Weald in early October 1940 and flew his first operational sortie on the 8th.

81637

248 Squadron

Fripp joined the RAFVR about August 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740609). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 13 Course, which ran from September 9 to November 6 1939, for advance training only.

JACK RICHARD FRIEND 904234

British

3 Squadron

He joined the RAFVR about October 1938 as an Airman u/t Pilot. Frith was called up on September 1 1939 and completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 46 Course, which ran from February 1 to June 26 1940. With the course completed, Frith went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 1 and after converting to Spitfires he joined 611 Squadron at Ternhill on July 29 1940. Frith moved to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill on September 21. He was shot down on October 9 and baled out, badly burned. His Spitfire, X 4597, is believed to be that which crashed at The Ridgeway, Smeeth, Ashford. Frith was admitted to Willesborough Hospital, where he died from his injuries on October 17 1940. He was 26 and is buried in Oxford Cemetery, Botley, Berkshire.

Born in St Albans, Hertfordshire on June 10 1919, Friendship joined the RAFVR in September 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742051) and did his weekend flying at 29 E&RFTS, Luton. Called up on September 1 1939, Friendship completed his training and was posted to 11 Group Fighter Pool at St Athan on December 28 1939, for further training, after which he joined 3 Squadron at Croydon. On May 10 1940 the squadron was sent to Merville in France at short notice, to be attached to 63 Wing. Friendship shared in the destruction of a Hs 126 on the 12th, claimed a Bf 109 and a Ju 87 destroyed on the 14th, a He 111 shared on the 17th, a Ju 87 destroyed on the 18th, a He 111 destroyed on the 19th and a share in destroying two He 111s on the 20th. The squadron was withdrawn on the 20th. Friendship’s commission had been granted on the 15th, he was awarded the DFM (31.5.40) and a Bar (4.6.40). With 3 Squadron in Scotland during the Battle of Britain period, Friendship did not add to his tally. On December 26 1940 he went to 605 Squadron at Croydon and was appointed a Flight Commander in March 1941. On May 6 1941, returning from a party, Friendship crashed the car he was driving and his injuries put him in hospital for six weeks. After recovery he was posted away to 52 OTU in July, as an instructor. A return to operations came in February 1942, with a posting to 66 Squadron at Portreath, as a Flight Commander. In June 1942 Friendship was posted to Malta and flew a Spitfire off the carrier HMS Eagle on July 15. A brief attachment to 126 Squadron ended on the 22nd, when Friendship joined 1435 Squadron at Luqa. Severe sinus trouble led to Friendship’s returning to the UK on August 27 1942. In September he joined 501 Squadron at Middle Wallop, as a Flight Commander, moving to 65 Squadron at Drem in December. Tour-expired, in 1943, Friendship went to CGS, as an instructor, to set up a twin-engined aircraft gunnery course. After a conversion course at 51 OTU, Cranfield, he joined 604 Squadron at Scorton in December 1943, for intruder operations, remaining until August 1 1944, when he returned to CGS, again as an instructor. Friendship commanded 80 Squadron in Germany from November 1945 to May 1946. He was released from the RAF in 1947 as a Squadron Leader. He continued flying, commercially, in Britain and overseas for some years before becoming an Air Traffic Controller. He retired in 1983. Friendship died on May 10 2000.

CHARLES GEORGE FRIZELL 42831

PO

Pilot

Canadian

257 Squadron

Frizell was born on October 3 1921 and joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 14 1939, as a pupil pilot. He went on to 14 FTS, Kinloss on No 3 Course, which ran from November 4 1939 to April 20 1940. With training completed, he arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on April 20, where he converted to Spitfires. Frizell was posted to 257 Squadron, at its reformation at Hendon on May 17 1940. He then had four hours on Spitfires. On August 15 his Hurricane, L 1703, caught fire during a routine patrol. Frizell baled out, unhurt, and the aircraft crashed at Watford Way, Edgware. On September 15 he was seriously injured when Squadron Leader R R S Tuck drove into the back of his car. Frizell was posted to RAF Debden, as noneffective sick. He was in hospital for three months. In 1941 he instructed at 10 FTS, Ternhill, at RAF College FTS, Cranwell and 8 FTS, Montrose. Frizell returned to operations in March 1942, joining 91 Squadron at Hawkinge. In June he moved to 124 Squadron at Eastchurch, staying with it until November. In December 1942 he went to 152 Squadron at Souk-el-Arba, Tunisia. He damaged a Bf 109 on April 11 1943. In June Frizell was posted to command 1676 Fighter Defence Flight

PO 15.5.40 FO 15.5.41 FL 15.4.42

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In October 1941 Fumerton and Bing were posted to 89 Squadron at Colerne and went with it to Abu Sueir, Egypt in November. The team destroyed a He 111 on March 3 1942. Fumerton was awarded the DFC (27.3.42). On the night of April 7/8 they destroyed two He 111s. On June 22 the squadron established a detachment at Luqa, Malta. Flying from there on the 24th, Fumerton and Bing destroyed a Ju 87 and a Ju 88, on the 29th two Ju 88s, on July 1 a Ju 88 and on July 2 another. Fumerton was awarded a Bar to the DFC (21.7.42). On July 22 they destroyed a Ju 88, on August 10 they baled out into the sea, when both engines failed, and were picked up ten hous later by an ASR launch and on the 14th they destroyed a Cant Z 1007. Their final victory was on August 28, a Ju 88 destroyed on the ground at Castelvetrano aerodrome, Sicily. Posted back to Canada in December 1942, Fumerton went to No 1 OTU, Bagotville, Quebec. In June 1943 he moved to RAF Ferry Command, on staff duties. When he returned to the UK in July he was promoted to Acting Wing Commander and on August 25 took command of 406 (RCAF) Squadron at Valley. On the night of May 14/15 1944 Fumerton destroyed a Ju 188, his final victory. He left 406 on July 26 1944, was repatriated to Canada and given command of 7 OTU, Debert, Nova Scotia. He was there until June 1945 and was awarded the AFC (1.1.46). After leaving the RCAF in July 1945, Fumerton returned to mining. In 1948 he went to Hankow to train Chinese pilots on Mosquitos, then being sold by de Havilland’s to the Nationalist Government. It was not a fruitful venture and he left China in early 1949. Fumerton became a successful real estate broker in Canada. He died on July 10 2006.

at Gibraltar, carrying out long-range Atlantic shipping patrols. He was instructing and carrying out liaison duties in America in 1944 and in 1945 was in South East Asia Command, in Ceylon and India. He was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader on August 19 1945. Frizell carried out liaison duties with the Chinese Air Force and was awarded the Order of the Cloud and Banner Mochi Medal (14.6.46). Frizell was released on March 6 1946 as a Squadron Leader. He died on September 29 2014 in British Columbia. APO 23.10.39 PO 20.4.40 FO 20.4.41 FL 20.4.42

JACK LYNCH FROST 84681

PO

Air Gunner

British

600 Squadron

Frost joined the RAFVR in February 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (743043). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his gunnery training and was on 600 Squadron at Northolt by June 1940. Commissioned in August 1940, Frost made his last flight with 600 on September 28, Hornchurch to Redhill. He transferred to the Administrative Branch on May 24 1941. On January 23 1942 Frost was dismissed the Service by sentence of General Court Martial. PO 19.8.40 FO 8.8.41

PO 6.11.39

DAVID FULFORD 63787

Sgt

Pilot

British

REX HORTON FURNEAUX

64 and 19 Squadrons

103486

Sgt

Pilot

British

Fulford, who was from Dinnington, Yorkshire, was educated at King Edward VII School, Sheffield. He had been accepted for a flight cadetship at RAF College, Cranwell but at the outbreak of war the scheme was suspended and Fulford became an Airman u/t Pilot in the RAFVR in October 1939 (905533).

Furneaux joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745664). He was called up on September 1, completed his training and was with 3 Squadron at Wick in June 1940. He moved to 73 Squadron at Castle Camps on September 25 and then to 17 Squadron on November 14 1940.

He did his elementary flying at 9 EFTS, Ansty between October and April 10 1940. Fulford moved on to RAF College FTS, Cranwell for his intermediate and advanced training. He passed out as a Sergeant-Pilot, instead of receiving a Permanent Commission, as he would have done if his cadetship had materialized and he had completed the course. In August 1940 Fulford joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield and flew his first operational sortie on September 6. He moved to 19 Squadron at Fowlmere on September 25. He shared in destroying a Bf 110 on November 15 and shared a Bf 109 on the 28th. Commissioned in March 1941, Fulford was posted to 118 Squadron at Ibsley. On July 17 Fulford got a probable Bf 109 and he destroyed Bf 109s on August 6 and October 13. He was awarded the DFC (4.11.41). When 118 Squadron did the flying for the film First of the Few, Fulford appeared as himself, with other Battle of Britain pilots. In early 1942 he was posted to 261 Squadron in Ceylon, as a Flight Commander. He was in action against the Japanese on April 9 1942, when they launched their big carrier-borne air attack on Colombo. Fulford shot down two Zeros in the ensuing action. Posted back to the UK in June 1942, he joined 611 Squadron at Redhill, as a Flying Officer. He was killed on November 2 1942, when his Spitfire was shot down by FW 190s over Le Touquet. Fulford is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 67. A plaque in his memory was unveiled at King Edward VII School on November 10 2000.

Commissioned in July 1941, Furneaux was released in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He worked as an estate agent. In 1953 he was subject to bankruptcy proceedings. His address at that time was given in the Edinburgh Gazette as “HM Prison Eastchurch, in the County of Kent”. PO 31.7.41 FO 31.7.42 FL 31.7.43

BOHUMIR FURST 68152

Canadian

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

310 and 605 Squadrons

On October 1 1928 he began his military service at the Military Aviation Academy, Prostejov where he was selected for pilot training. He completed his military service in September 1930 but chose to remain in the Czechoslovak Air Force and was posted to 38 Fighter Regiment, based at Vajnory, near Bratislav, where he remained until 1932. From then until 1939 he served as an instructor at the Academy at Prostejov. The Germans invaded on March 15 1939 and he was demobilised two days later. On June 23 1939 Furst escaped to Poland and travelled to Krakow. On July 26, with other Czech airmen, he sailed from Gdynia, on the Kastelholm, to France. On arrival he was required to join the French Foreign Legion, with an agreement that should war be declared, he would be transferred to a French military unit. He then went from Marseilles to North Africa and the Legion training camp at Sidi-bel-Abbes, Algeria. War was declared on September 3 1939 and Furst was transferred to l’Armée de l’Air on October 25 and was posted to the training base at Tunis. In December he returned to France and was posted as an instructor to the training base at Chartres. Between May 10 and 17 1940 he was assigned to Escadrille Legere de Defence (ELD) at Chateaudun and then to Groupe de Chasse (GC) II/2 later in May. On the May 19 he shared in destroying a Hs 126 and shared in the probable destruction of a Do 17 on the 21st but his MS-406c was also shot down near Chateau Verneuil-en-Halatte and he was wounded in the leg. After the French collapse, Furst was released from service with l’Armee de l’Air and was evacuated by ship from Port Vendres to Oran, Algeria. From there he travelled by train to Casablanca and then by ship to Gibraltar. He transferred to the Neuralia which sailed for England arriving in Liverpool on July 12. On August 3 Furst joined the RAFVR (787556) at the RAF Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford and on August 6 he joined 310 Squadron at Duxford. He flew his first operational sortie on the 28th. On September 3, when flying in Yellow Section, he claimed a Bf 110

ROBERT CARL FUMERTON PO Pilot

Sgt

Furst was born on January 10 1909 in Opatovice, Moravia.

PO 10.3.41 FO 11.3.42

C 1352

3 and 73 Squadrons

32 Squadron

Fumerton was born on March 21 1913 at Fort Coulonge, Quebec. From the age of 18 he worked for some prospecting and mining companies. He got his private pilot’s license in 1938 and joined the RCAF at the outbreak of war. After completing his training at Camp Borden, he left for the UK and on arrival on September 8 1940 he joined 112 (RCAF) Squadron, a holding unit. Fumerton volunteered for Fighter Command, converted to Hurricanes at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge and joined 32 Squadron at Acklington on October 6. On December 1 1940 he was posted to No 1 (RCAF) Squadron at Castletown. In June 1941 Fumerton went to 406 (RCAF) Squadron, newly-formed with Defiants at Acklington. He teamed up with Sergeant L P S Bing and their first victory came on September 1, a Ju 88 at night. A week later they damaged a He 111.

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destroyed, on the 7th, when flying in Red Section, he destroyed a Bf 109 and probably destroyed a Bf 110 and then destroyed a Bf 109. Flying in Red Section, on the 15th he claimed a He 111 destroyed. Furst joined 605 Squadron at Croydon on October 18 1940 and flew two sorties on that day. He flew his third, and final, sortie on the 20th before returning to 310 Squadron. On October 26 Furst was reported in 605’s ORB to have been ‘posted out but retained on the squadron’. On March 7 1941, having completed his operational tour, he was posted to 52 OTU as a pilot instructor and he stayed there until May 6. He was posted to Flying Instructors’ School at Upavon and on June 13, was commissioned and awarded the Czech Military Cross. Three days later he was posted, as an instructor, to 2 SFTS at Brize Norton. In June 1942 Furst was posted to 6 AFU as an instructor and in August to 11 AFU in the same role. On September 14 Furst transferred to Transport Command and was posted to 24 Squadron at Hendon. On December 1 he transferred to 510 Sqn and, on December 2, was appointed Commander, B Flight. Furst left the RAF in August 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He returned to Czechoslovakia

where he was posted as a pilot with the Transport Regiment of the Czech Air Force. It was during this period that he changed his name from the Germanic spelling of Furst to the Czech spelling of Firt. The communists took over in Czechoslovakia in February 1948 and all those who had fought with the Allies in the war were declared ‘tainted’. On September 1 1948 Furst was promoted to Major but on February 1 1949 he was dismissed from the Czech Air Force. He was demoted to Private on November 2 and on January 10 1950 he was arrested, tried and sentenced to hard labour and imprisoned in Mirov prison on November 2. Due to poor health he was released on August 10 1951 but was evicted from his home in Prague and was sent to a rural area to isolate him socially. He was only permitted to do menial work as a store-keeper. On August 28 1965 his military rank was restored but he was not allowed to return to the Czech Air Force. Furst died from a heart attack on January 2 1978 in Ledec Sazavou, Czechoslovakia. PO 13.6.41 FO 29.5.42 FL 29.7.43

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G ALEKSANDER KLEMENS GABSZEWICZ P 0163

FO

Pilot

Polish

He died on October 10 1983 and in 1992 his ashes were scattered over Deblin airfield in Poland.

607 Squadron

FO 1.3.41 FL 1.3.42 SL 1.9.42 WC 1.9.44 GC 1.10.66 AVM 1.1.74

Born in Szawle, Kowno, Poland on December 12 1911, Gabszewicz went to the Cadet School at Komorow in October 1931. He took a gliding course in September 1933, after which he was commissioned and posted, as an infantry officer, to command the 6th Company of the 30th Kaniowscy Fusiliers in Warsaw.

DOUGLAS HUGH GAGE 83248

PO

Pilot

British

616 and 602 Squadrons

Gage, of Staines, Middlesex, was at Shrewsbury School from 1931 to 1935 and was an architect before the war. He joined the RAFVR in July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754757).

Gabszewicz had previously applied for transfer to the Air Force. This came through and in September 1934 he was posted to the Air Force Officers’ Training Centre at Deblin. He qualified as a fighter pilot and joined 114 Eskadra in 1937. On September 1 1939, the day the Germans invaded Poland, he and another pilot shared in the destruction of a He 111, the first to fall in the Warsaw area. Later that day he was shot down and baled out, with burns. After the fall of Poland, Gabszewicz went to Romania and then to France, arriving in October 1939. He joined l’Armée de l’Air and in March 1940 he did a conversion course at Lyon-Bron, after which he joined an ad hoc flight for the defence of Lyon, flying Caudron C 714s. He commanded this unit from June 1 1940, attached to Groupe de Chasse III/10, flying Morane 406s. Gabszewicz was credited with destroying a He 111 on June 1 and was awarded the KW (11.6.40). Following the fall of France he flew to North Africa and made his way to Gibraltar, via Algiers, and after arrival in England he was commissioned in the RAFVR. Gabszewicz went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 25 1940, converted to Hurricanes and then joined 607 Squadron at Tangmere on October 9 and moved to 303 Squadron at Leconfield on November 12. He was given a Bar to the KW (23.12.40). On February 22 1941 he went to 316 Squadron at Pembrey at its formation, as a Flight Commander. On April 1 Gabszewicz shared a He 111 and on July 24 he shared a Bf 109 destroyed and probably destroyed another. He was awarded a second Bar to the KW (15.7.41) and given command of 316 Squadron on November 14 1941. He claimed FW 190s destroyed on April 10, 25 and 27 1942, a probable FW 190 on May 4 and shared a probable Bf 109 on the 6th. Gabszewicz was posted to HQ 11 Group on June 4, was awarded the DFC (20.8.42) and the VM (5th Class) (28.8.42). On September 25 1942 he went to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as an instructor. He was promoted on January 27 1943, to lead No 2 Polish Wing at Heston, moving later to lead No 1 Wing. On April 4 1943 he destroyed a FW 190, on July 4 another and on July 6 a Bf 109. He was awarded the C de G (Fr) (7.7.43). He destroyed one FW 190 and damaged another on August 19. He left the Wing on December 12 1943 and was attached to 56th Fighter Group, USAAF. Gabszewicz was promoted to Acting Group Captain on February 29 1944, to command HQ 18 Fighter Sector. Awarded the VM (4th Class) (13.3.44) and the DSO (15.5.44), he moved to HQ 131 Wing, to command, on July 12 1944. Ten days later the advance party of the Wing landed in France. Gabszewicz went to HQ 84 Group on June 19 1945, was given command of RAF Coltishall on February 2 1946 and was released from the PAF in January 1947. He was awarded a third Bar to the KW (31.10.47) and was invested with the Order of Orange-Nassau in 1947. Gabszewicz settled in Britain after his release.

Called up on September 1, he completed his flying training at 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on July 26 1940, was commissioned next day and then went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum. On August 22 Gage was one of 34 officers posted from Old Sarum to 7 OTU, Hawarden, where he converted to Spitfires. He joined 616 Squadron at Kenley from 7 OTU on September 2 1940. He moved to 602 Squadron at Westhampnett on the 21st. On September 27 Gage was jumped by a Bf 109 and hit in the glycol tank. He made a forced-landing at Bivelham Forge Farm, Mayfield, in Spitfire X 4414, unhurt. After being damaged by Bf 109s over Dungeness on October 30, Gage made a forcedlanding at Millbank Farm, Newchurch, unhurt. He was killed on June 6 1941, aged 23, serving with 91 Squadron at Hawkinge. His aircraft was shot down by a Bf 109 during an ASR escort sortie. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 32. PO 27.7.40

PAWEL PIOTR GALLUS 794124

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

303 and 3 Squadrons

Born at Szczawina, Poland on April 28 1920, Gallus went to the PAF NCOs Training School at Bydgoszcz in 1936. He qualified as a fighter pilot at Krosno in 1939. He was posted to 112 Eskadra, No 1 Air Regiment, Warsaw. He was evacuated to Romania on September 19 and reached France on December 30 1939. He joined l’Armée de l’Air and was attached to a Polish flight of MB 152s, defending Chateauroux airfield. When France fell, Gallus went to England, arriving there on June 23 1940. He was enlisted in the RAFVR and went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool. He was posted to 303 Squadron at Northolt, at its formation on August 2 1940. On the 12th he made a belly-landing after a training flight and was taken off flying. Gallus was detached to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 2 for conversion to Hurricanes. He did not return to 303 but joined 3 Squadron at Turnhouse on September 29 1940. He was posted to 316 Squadron at Pembrey on March 27 1941, staying with it until October 22, when he went to 87 Squadron at Colerne for night-flying training. Gallus was

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training at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield on January 23 1939, moving to 11 FTS, Shawbury for No 12 Course, which ran from April 15 to October 23 1939. Gard’ner joined 141 Squadron at Grangemouth on October 25. The squadron had no aircraft of its own but gradually two flights were formed, one of Gladiators, the other of Blenheims. In March 1940 141 began to receive Defiants, becoming operational on June 3 and moving south to West Malling on July 12. On the morning of July 19 Gard’ner was flying one of the nine Defiants attacked by Bf 109s of III/JG 51 off Dover. He was in one of the four rear aircraft and was shot down immediately but did not catch fire, as did the other three rear

attached to 317 Squadron at Exeter on March 15 1942, moving on April 5 to 316 Squadron at Heston. He was awarded the KW (3.9.42), claimed a FW 190 probably destroyed on January 21 1943, received a Bar to the KW (25.6.43) and claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on July 6. On August 26 Gallus was rested from operations and became an air traffic controller in the Operations Room at 306 Squadron. Gallus joined 302 Squadron at Deanland on April 14 1944. He was posted away on February 8 1945, spent a short while with 639 and 595 Squadrons, was awarded the DFC (26.5.45), the VM (5th Class) (1.6.45) and went to 309 Squadron at Coltishall on August 23 1945. Gallus was released from the PAF in 1948, as a Warrant Officer. He settled in England.

DOUGLAS ROBERT GAMBLEN 39657

FO

Pilot

British

41 Squadron

aircraft. He landed on the sea four miles off Dover and the aircraft sank. Gard’ner managed to extricate himself and was picked up after fifteen minutes but his gunner, Pilot Officer D M Slatter, was not seen again. Gard’ner was admitted to Union Road Hospital, Dover with a badly cut head. He rejoined the squadron on October 20 1940, after time in hospital and sick leave. On November 1 1941 Gard’ner joined 409 (RCAF) Squadron at Coleby Grange. Promoted to Acting Squadron Leader in July 1942, he joined 488 Squadron at Ayr on August 14, as a Flight Commander. With his second tour completed in November, Gard’ner was posted to HQ 13 Group, Newcastle, as Ops Night. Whilst there he did a course at RAF Staff College. Gard’ner transferred to the RNZAF on January 1 1944, went to 51 OTU, Bedford on April 25, for a refresher course on Beaufighters and then joined 219 Squadron at Bradwell Bay, as a supernumerary. He returned to 488 in late October, as a Flight Commander. The squadron moved across to the Continent on November 15. Operating from Amiens-Glisy, Gard’ner destroyed a FW 190 in December. On the 31st he made a one-engine landing at Brussels-Melsbroek, after being damaged by anti-aircraft fire. The following day his aircraft was destroyed on the ground there by a German strafing attack. Gard’ner was with 488 until its disbandment at Gilze-Rijen on April 26 1945. He returned to England and was posted to Air Ministry, Directorate of Organisational Establishments. He received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.46), returned to New Zealand in March 1947 and went on the Reserve on June 12. Offered a Permanent Commission in the RAF in September, Gard’ner returned to the UK in February 1948. He held a series of appointments and commands prior to his retirement on June 14 1965, as a Wing Commander, retaining the rank of Group Captain. He died on May 6 2011 in New Zealand.

Gamblen joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary training on March 8 1937, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on an intermediate and advanced course, which ran from May 9 to September 27 1937. After completing training, he joined 41 Squadron at Catterick. He was posted from 41 to SHQ Catterick for admin duties, on June 10 1938. Gamblen was posted back to 41 Squadron on February 7 1939. He was still with 41 at the start of the Battle of Britain. On July 29 1940 he was reported ‘Missing’, following a combat with Ju 87s and Bf 109s over Dover. Gamblen was 25. With no known grave, he is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 5. APO 9.5.37 PO 8.3.38 FO 8.10.39

SIDNEY RUSSELL GANE 42117

PO

Pilot

British

248 Squadron

Gane joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio flying at 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury on March 13 1939, as a pupil pilot. He moved on to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on May 13 for a short induction course, after which he went to 5 FTS, Sealand. Gane was on No 40 Course, which ran from May 30 to November 5 1939. On the 6th Gane was posted to 248 Squadron at Hendon. In February 1940 the squadron joined Coastal Command. Flying a Blenheim from Sumburgh, Shetland on October 20 1940, Gane failed to return from a reconnaissance sortie over the Norwegian coast, following an attack by Bf 109s. He had been searching for another Blenheim of 248, which had been lost earlier in the day. Also lost were Pilot Officer M D Green, observer, and Sergeant N J Stocks, air gunner. Gane was 20. Eyewitnesses reported that he left the aircraft, but was killed under his parachute by fighters. He is buried in Stavne Cemetery, Trondheim, Norway.

APO 1.4.39 PO 23.10.39 FO 23.10.40 FL 23.10.41 SL 1.7.45 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.1.54

ERIC CECIL GARDINER 562691 Sgt Radar Operator British 219 Squadron Gardiner went to King’s School, Pontefract. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice, in September 1928 and passed out in August 1931, as a Fitter. He later trained as an Air Gunner and he was with 219 Squadron at Catterick in June 1940, as a Corporal. Gardiner was promoted to Sergeant in August and in October he retrained as a radar operator, flying his first Beaufighter sortie with Pilot Officer K W Worsdell on the 22nd. They were on their sixth sortie together, in Beaufighter R 2065, on October 30 1940. In bad visibility, the aircraft hit trees, crashed and exploded just S of Balcombe Place. Both men were killed. Gardiner was 27. He is buried in Pontefract Cemetery, Yorkshire.

APO 13.5.39 PO 6.11.39

ERNEST GANT 52007

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

236 Squadron

Gant joined the RAF in August 1939, as an Aircrafthand (653671). He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and after completing his training, he joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on September 3 1940. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in March 1943, Gant was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant.

FREDERICK THOMAS GARDINER 72100

FO

Pilot

British

610 Squadron

PO 18.3.43 FO 18.9.43 FL 18.3.45 Gardiner, from Northern Ireland, went to Stowe School and Trinity College, Cambridge, where he read Mechanical Sciences. He was a member of the University Air Squadron from 1935 to 1937 and also a member of the University Gliding Club. He was commissioned in the RAFVR in February 1938. Gardiner was a contestant in the National Gliding Championships in 1939.

JOHN RUSHTON GARD’NER 41841

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

141 Squadron

Gard’ner was born in Dunedin on June 14 1918. He was at Nelson College from 1931 to 1935 and was afterwards employed as an apprentice draughtsman in the Lands and Survey Department.

Called to full-time service on September 25 1939, Gardiner completed his training at RAF College FTS, Cranwell on No 6 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 9 1940. Gardiner was with the Advanced Training Squadron of RAF College FTS, when it arrived at 10 B&GS, Warmwell on April 26 1940, for the final part of No 6 Course.

In 1938 Gard’ner applied for a short service commission and did some flying at Nelson Aero Club. He sailed for the UK on December 16 1938 in the RMS Rangitata and began

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Gardner was again detached on March 21 1940, for a twoday oxygen course at RAF Farnborough. On May 14 he was attached to 3 Squadron in France. On the 15th he shared in the destruction of a Do 17 and on the 18th he shared another Do 17. In this engagement he was hit by return fire, made a forced-landing and set fire to his aircraft. On the 19th he shared a He 111, with a pilot of 213 Squadron and on the 20th he destroyed a Do 17. Gardner rejoined 32 Squadron, then at Biggin Hill, on June 26. He claimed a share in a Do 17 on July 3, damaged a Bf 109 on August 11, destroyed two Bf 109s on the 12th, destroyed a Ju 88 on the 15th and another Bf 109 on the 16th. Gardner was awarded the DFC (30.8.40). On September 9 1940 he was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant and appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander. He was posted away in December 1940 to 2 CFS, Cranwell, probably for an instructor’s course. In June 1941 Gardner was posted to 54 Squadron at Hornchurch, as a Flight Commander. He destroyed a Bf 109 on June 17. During a sweep on July 11 1941, Gardner was shot down and captured. At some time he was held in Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 3801). After being freed, he stayed on in the RAF, retiring on July 31 1948, as a Squadron Leader. Gardner died on May 23 1984.

He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 1 1940, where he converted to Spitfires. He joined 610 Squadron at Gravesend on the 16th. On July 25 Gardiner damaged a Bf 109 in the Dover/Folkestone area and was slightly wounded. He destroyed a Bf 110 SE of Biggin Hill on August 18 and was shot down in combat with Bf 109s over Dover on August 25. He baled out, slightly wounded, and was admitted to Waldershare Hospital. His Spitfire, K 9931, crashed and burned out on Stoneheap Farm, near Northbourne. Gardiner was posted to RAF Biggin Hill, non-effective sick. He rejoined 610 Squadron, then at Acklington, on November 22 1940. He was posted away on the 27th to the Central Landing Establishment at Ringway. On January 17 1941 Gardiner was attached to AFDU, Northolt from RAF Detachment, Thame, an off-shoot of the CLE, to develop the glider for military use and to set up trials of fighter versus glider. He returned to Thame on February 10 1941. During 1941/42 Gardiner instructed Army glider pilots and in 1943 he returned to operational flying, when he joined 254 Squadron at North Coates, flying Beaufighters. In early 1944 he was commanding 254 and was awarded the DFC (10.3.44). It is believed that he later served in the Middle East until the end of the war. He was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader. He married in 1947 and the family emigrated to Victoria, Vancouver Island, Canada. Gardiner started work as a deckhand on a fishing boat for several seasons and then established an engineering business, which he operated until the mid-1970s. He developed a great love for yachting and cruising, beginning in 1953 and carrying on until he was in his eighties. He died in Victoria on November 2 2003.

APO 19.2.38 PO 29.11.38

FO 29.8.40 FL 29.8.41

SL 1.7.43 SL 1.8.47

PO (RAFVR) 15.2 38 PO 25.9.39 FO 16.2.40 FL 1.6.41 SL 1.6.42

RICHARD EXTON GARDNER Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

Pilot

British

242 Squadron

WILLIAM NAIRN GARDINER 121234

Sgt

Pilot

British

3 Squadron

Born on July 24 1914, Gardner was educated at Bryanston School. After leaving, he joined the family company of Yardley, cosmetic manufacturers. He joined the Royal Navy in 1939 and began his flying training at Gravesend in May, as a Leading Seaman.

Gardiner joined the RAFVR about August 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754858). Called up on September 1, he completed his flying training and served with 3 Squadron at Castletown during the latter part of the Battle of Britain. He flew his first operational sortie with the squadron on October 27 1940.

He was commissioned as a Sub-Lieutenant RNVR on September 8 1939 and he was awarded his wings at RAF Netheravon in April 1940. He then joined 760 Squadron (FAA) at HMS Raven at Eastleigh. In mid-June 1940 Gardner was one of the pilots loaned to the RAF and he was attached from the 28th. He had been at 7 OTU, Hawarden from June 17, doing a conversion course on Hurricanes, and he left there on the 28th. He joined 242 Squadron at Coltishall on July 1. Gardner claimed a He 111 destroyed on July 10, shared a Do 17 on August 21, destroyed a Do 17 on September 7 and probably destroyed two Do 17s on the 18th. He was damaged in combat with Bf 109s off Sheerness on November 5 but returned, unhurt, to Coltishall, in Hurricane P 3054. On December 8 1940 Gardner was posted away from 242, to join 252 Squadron, Coastal Command, at Chivenor. Gardner was recalled by the Royal Navy on January 6 1941 and went to RNAS Yeovilton for FAA duties. In March 1941 he joined 807 Squadron, then in HMS Furious but later in Ark Royal. In May the carrier took part in Operation Tiger, a convoy to reinforce Egypt. On May 8 Gardner destroyed two Ju 87s and shared a SM 79. He was awarded the DSC (29.7.41), shared a Ju 52 on August 23, a Cant Z 506 B on September 27 and a Fiat BR 20 on October 18. After Ark Royal was sunk in November 1941, 807 Squadron joined HMS Argus, for convoy duties in the Western Mediterranean. In April 1942 Gardner was appointed as an instructor at 760 Squadron, part of the Fleet Fighter School at Yeovilton. In July 1942 he was given command of 889 Squadron, operating in Fulmars from HMS Greve at Dekheila, near Alexandria, on Canal Zone defence. Part of 889 Squadron went to Syria, to operate with 260 Wing, RAF, and was re-equipped with Hurricanes in October 1942. They then flew in the Western Desert until disbanded in February 1943. Gardner later returned to the UK and from May 1943 he commanded 736 Squadron, formed as the School of Air Combat. In September 1943 the unit moved to St Merryn and became the Fighter Combat School element of the School of Naval Air Warfare. Gardner then took command of 715 Squadron, which was formed from a nucleus provided by 736 Squadron. Its Corsairs and Seafires were used on fighter combat and Fighter Leaders’ courses. He was posted to the School of Naval Air Warfare, which he commanded from November 1944. Gardner was made an OBE (14.6.45) and retired on March 13 1946. He joined the Yardley board and became Chairman, holding the appointment until the company was taken over in 1969. He died on March 26 1999.

Gardiner was posted away to 96 Squadron at Cranage on December 25 1940. The squadron had been recently formed from 422 Flight, for night-flying operations, with Hurricanes. He was commissioned from Warrant Officer in March 1942. No other service details traced. PO 22.3.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 22.3.44

BERNARD GEORGE DERRY GARDNER 740601

Sgt

Pilot

British

610 Squadron

Gardner, of Bassett, Hampshire, joined the RAFVR in September 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 11 FTS, Shawbury, on a course which ran from January 31 to June 29 1940. He went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 7, converted to Spitfires and joined 610 Squadron at Biggin Hill on the 27th. He claimed two Bf 109s probably destroyed on August 12 and another destroyed on the 14th. After this latter combat, off Folkestone, he made a forced-landing at Wye and was admitted to Ashford Hospital, with bullet wounds in the arm. There is no further mention of Gardner in the squadron ORB after August 14. On June 28 1941 Gardner was killed, as a Flight Sergeant with 75 Signals Wing. He was 24. Gardner is buried in Hollybrook Cemetery, Southampton.

PETER MELVILL GARDNER 40527

FO

Pilot

British

32 Squadron

Born at Grimsby on July 1 1918, Gardner joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on November 29 1937, as a pupil pilot. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on February 19 1938, for a short induction course, after which he was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on March 5. With training completed, Gardner joined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on September 17 1938. In November 1939 he was detached to Harwich, for liaison with the Royal Navy, to assist in aircraft recognition on convoys sailing along the east coast. He rejoined 32 on November 21 1939.

Sub-Lt 8.9.39 Lt 7.9.40 Lt-Cdr 1943 Cdr 1945

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

WALTER JAMES GARFIELD

GEOFFREY WILLIAM GARTON

740997

67034

Sgt

Pilot

British

248 Squadron

Sgt

Pilot

British

Garfield, of Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, joined the RAFVR about December 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot.

Garton was born in Grantham, Lincolnshire on October 3 1915. The family later moved to Wigston, Leicestershire and he was educated at Wiggleston Grammar School.

Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 13 Course, which ran from September 9 to November 6 1939, for advanced training only. He was with 248 Squadron at Sumburgh, Shetland in early July 1940. Garfield was the captain of a Blenheim, which failed to return from a reconnaissance of the Feje-Stadlandet sector of the Norwegian coast on September 13 1940. Also lost were Sergeants B W Mesner, observer and A Kay, Wop/AG. Garfield was 25. He is buried in Mollendal Cemetery, Bergen, Norway.

He joined the RAFVR on May 22 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740288) and began his flying training at 7 E&RFTS, Desford. On January 31 1938 he moved to 8 E&RFTS, Woodley. Called up on September 1 1939, he was posted to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on October 9. After further training, Garton went to the 11 Group Fighting School at St Athan on December 27, converted to Hurricanes and then joined 43 Squadron at Acklington on January 25 1940. Garton moved to 73 Squadron in France on May 21 and three days later he destroyed a Bf 110 over Cambrai. The squadron was withdrawn to Church Fenton on June 17. On July 8 Garton shared in the destruction of a Bf 109, on September 7 he probably destroyed a He 111, on the 15th he damaged a Do 17 and on the 27th he destroyed a Bf 110 over Maidstone. The squadron embarked on HMS Furious on November 10 1940, bound for the Middle East. The pilots flew their Hurricanes off at Takoradi on December 1, to fly the ferry route north to Heliopolis, via Lagos, Accra, Kano, Maiduguri, Khartoum, Wadi Halfa and Abu Sueir. During December the pilots of 73 were attached to 274 Squadron in the Western Desert. The squadron became operational again as a unit in early January 1941. Garton destroyed a Ju 87 on April 5, shared in the destruction of a Hs 126 on the 9th and destroyed another Ju 87 on the 21st. With his tour completed, Garton was commissioned and on April 23 1941 he was posted to the Ferry Pool at Abu Sueir. On August 14 he moved to 102 MU, as a test pilot. A return to operations came on April 27 1942, when he joined 250 Squadron at Gambut. He destroyed a Bf 109 on June 17 and four days later joined 112 Squadron at El Daba. Garton’s aircraft was hit by flak on July 22 and he made a belly-landing, unhurt. He was awarded the DFC (28.7.42). On September 16 he destroyed a Mc 202 and on October 2 destroyed a Ju 87 and probably a second. Five days later Garton flew his 250th operational sortie. He destroyed another Ju 87 on November 1 and a Ju 52 on the 11th. He was posted to HQ 239 Wing on November 17 1942, as Squadron Leader Flying, remaining with it only until January 15 1943, when he took command of 112 Squadron, then at Hammraiet, Libya. Garton left the squadron on May 14, to become CFI at 73 OTU at Abu Sueir. From January 1 to March 30 1944 he commanded 232 Squadron in Tunisia and took it to Italy in April. Garton was soon afterwards injured in a car crash and hospitalised for some months. From August 16 1944 to April 4 1945 he commanded 87 Squadron in Italy. On April 5 Garton was made Wing Commander Flying of 8 (SAAF) Wing. He was awarded the DSO (21.8.45). He stayed on in the RAF and retired on February 13 1962, as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. Garton died in November 1976.

ANTHONY HUGH HAMILTON GARRAD 42119

PO

Pilot

British

248 Squadron

Garrad joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training at 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury on March 13 1939, as a pupil pilot. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on May 13, for a short induction course, after which he was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand for No 40 Course, which ran from May 30 to November 5 1939. With training completed, he joined 248 Squadron at Hendon on the 6th. In February 1940 the squadron joined Coastal Command. Flying from Sumburgh in the Shetlands, Garrad failed to return from a sortie on November 3 1940, in Blenheim L 9392. He was last seen attacking a He 111 over the North Sea and is presumed to have been shot down by return fire. Also lost were Sergeant E J Bayliss, observer and Sergeant H J F Moynham, Wop/AG. Garrad was 19 years old. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 8. APO 13.5.39 PO 6.11.39

GEOFFREY GARSIDE 936021

Sgt

Observer

British

73 Squadron

236 Squadron

Born in Halifax, Yorkshire on September 10 1912, Garside was educated at the Junior Technical School and Technical College, Halifax. He went to work in his father’s company, James Garside & Son, Halifax, manufacturers of textile machinery.

PO 26.4.41 FO 26.4.42 FL 1.6.43 SL 1.9.45 SL 1.7.50

LEONARD ARTHUR GARVEY

Garside joined the RAFVR a few days after the outbreak of war, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Observer. After a ground navigation course, he was posted to Squires Gate in February 1940, for flying training. This was followed by a bombing and gunnery course at Penrhos in May. On July 19 Garside joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island and flew his first operational sortie on the 27th. Flying with Sergeant E A Alexander, he carried out passenger flying boat escorts, reconnaissances of the French coast and fighter patrols. In December 1940 Garside was posted to 209 Squadron, operating in Lerwicks from Stranraer. He went to Andover in March 1941 for retraining, and in April he joined 59 Squadron at Bircham Newton, flying in Blenheims, mainly engaged in finding and bombing E boats, particularly at Ymuiden, Holland. When his tour finished, Garside went to CGS, Catfoss, as an instructor. In July 1942 he was posted to RAF Cranwell, to train for service in anti-submarine Whitleys and in late August he joined 58 Squadron at St Eval, moving soon afterwards to Stornaway. On September 17 1942 Garside was a member of the crew of a Whitley, carrying depth charges. The aircraft took off, its engines stopped at 1000 feet and the pilot made a crash-landing on a beach. The depth charges did not explode but the aircraft caught fire. All aboard escaped but Garside’s face and hands were very badly burned. He was admitted to Bangour Hospital, West Lothian. From then until he was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Warrant Officer, Garside was mostly in and out of Bangour Hospital, having skin grafts. In between times he worked in operations rooms.

740340

Sgt

Pilot

British

41 Squadron

Garvey, from Birmingham, was well known in athletic circles in the Midlands in the 1930s. He joined the RAFVR about June 1937 as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, Garvey completed his flying training and was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940. He converted to Spitfires and joined 616 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on the 16th. He moved to 41 Squadron at Catterick on October 3 1940 and flew his first operational sortie on the 10th. On the 30th he was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 109s over Ashford. His Spitfire, P 7375, is believed to be that which crashed on Church Farm, Stanford. Garvey was 26. He is buried in Wilton Cemetery, Birmingham.

GEORGE DESMOND GARVIN 34237

SL

Pilot

British

264 Squadron

Born on April 4 1916, Garvin joined the RAF in July 1934. He was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham on September 29 and joined 70 (Bomber Transport) Squadron at Hinaidi, Iraq on November 9 1935, under instruction. Back in the UK, Garvin was posted to 215 Squadron at Upper Heyford on June 4 1936, to fly Vickers Virginias. Garvin reported for duty with the CGS on March 24 1940, as an Acting Squadron Leader. He joined 264 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on August 8 1940, as a supernumerary. He took command on the 19th.

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hospital on August 3. After sick leave, he rejoined 3 Squadron at Kenley on December 8 1939, relinquishing his acting rank. Gaunce joined 615 Squadron in France on February 28 1940. He remained with it until it was withdrawn from France to Kenley on May 20. He was one of six 615 pilots, who formed ‘G’ Flight at Kenley on May 23 1940, with Gladiators. The flight was moved immediately to Manston, where it was attached to 604 Squadron for operations. The Gladiators returned to Kenley on May 30 and the flight was disbanded. Gaunce was appointed Acting Flight Lieutenant and appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on June 5. He claimed Bf 109s destroyed on July 20 and 25, destroyed one and probably another on August 12, damaged a Bf 110 on the 16th, damaged a Bf 109 on the 18th and was himself shot down in the action. He baled out, with slight burns, and was admitted to Holmesdale Hospital. His Hurricane, P 2966, crashed into Hobsacks Wood, Sevenoaks Weald, Kent. On August 26 Gaunce was shot down in flames and baled out. He was rescued from the sea and taken to Herne Bay Hospital, suffering from shock. His Hurricane, R 4111, crashed W of Herne Bay pier. On this day he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed. He was awarded the DFC (23.8.40). He rejoined 615 Squadron on September 14 and re-assumed command of ‘A’ Flight. On October 31 1940 Gaunce was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader and given command of 46 Squadron at Stapleford Tawney. The squadron intercepted an Italian force on November 11 and Gaunce claimed a Fiat CR 42 destroyed, probably another and shared a Fiat BR 20. He left 46 in December because of illness and did not return to operations until July 1941, when he took command of 41 Squadron at Merston. Gaunce damaged a Bf 109 on August 20, shared a probable Bf 109 on the 21st and damaged others on the 27th, 28th and September 17. On a sortie on November 19 1941 his aircraft was hit by flak near Ivigny and was seen to crash into the sea two miles off Janville. Gaunce was reported ‘Missing’. He was 26 and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 28. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde.

On the 24th he claimed two Ju 88s and a Bf 109 destroyed. Four days later Garvin was shot down in flames and baled out, with minor injuries. His gunner, Flight Lieutenant R C V Ash, baled out but was killed. Their Defiant, L 7021, crashed in flames on Luddenham Marsh, Faversham. Garvin went to Northolt on September 12 1940, with ‘B’ Flight, and on the 14th his being granted a Permanent Commission was gazetted. He relinquished his command of 264 on November 23 1940 but was not posted away until December 8. He formed and then commanded 154 Squadron at Fowlmere from November 17 1941 until the end of the year. Garvin stayed on after the war and retired from the RAF on June 28 1961, as a Group Captain, retaining the rank of Air Commodore. He was made a CBE (13.6.57). APO 14.9.34 PO 14.9.35 FO 14.3.37 FL 14.3.39 SL 1.9.40 WC 1.12.41 WC 1.7.47 GC 1.1.53

FRED GASH 146840

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

264 Squadron

Gash joined the RAFVR in September 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner (967911). He completed his training and joined 264 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey in August 1940. Gash teamed up with Pilot Officer F D Hughes and on August 26 they destroyed two Do 17s in daylight. In the early hours of the morning of October 16 they destroyed a He 111 over Brentwood and then overshot the runway in mist on return to Luton. Both were unhurt. During the night of November 23 1940 they attacked a He 111 but Gash’s turret jammed and it was only claimed as a probable. Hughes and Gash destroyed a He 111 on March 12 1941, damaged another on April 8 and destroyed a Ju 88 on the

APO 9.3.36 PO 6.1.37 FO 6.8.38 FL 6.8.40 SL 1.9.41

GEOFFREY NORMAN GAUNT 91230

night of the 10/11th. Gash was awarded the DFM (18.4.41) and Hughes the DFC. Commissioned in May 1943 from Warrant Officer, Gash was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 2002. PO 6.5.43 FO 6.11.43

PO

Pilot

Pilot

British

FL 6.5.45

British

609 Squadron

Gaunt was educated at The Leys School, Cambridge. He was a cousin of James Mason, the film actor. He was with 609 Squadron, AAF before the war and was a civilian pupil pilot, when he was placed on the strength of RAF Yeadon on August 27 1939.

RICHARD STUART GASKELL 42832

PO

Gaunt resumed his elementary flying training at 9 EFTS, Ansty on October 30 and with that completed he arrived at RAF College FTS, Cranwell on April 10 1940 for No 9 Course and was commissioned in the Auxiliary Air Force on that day. The course ended on July 14 1940 and Gaunt arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 15th. After converting to Spitfires, he rejoined 609 Squadron at Warmwell on August 10. He flew his first operational sortie on the 18th. He shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 on the 25th, with Pilot Officer N le C Agazarian. Gaunt was killed on September 15 1940, when he was shot down during an attack on German bombers over London. His Spitfire, R 6690, crashed and burned out near Kenley. Gaunt was 24 years old. He is buried in Salendine Nook, Baptist Chapel Yard, Huddersfield, Yorkshire.

264 Squadron

Born on July 25 1919, Gaskell joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 14 1939, as a pupil pilot. He completed his flying training and then joined 264 Squadron at Duxford on May 19 1940. On August 24 Gaskell was shot down by Bf 109s of JG 51 over Hornchurch. He was slightly injured but his gunner, Sergeant W H Machin, died of his wounds. The Defiant, L 6965, was written off. Gaskell moved to 249 Squadron at North Weald on December 7 1940 and was posted from there to 8 FTS, Montrose on the 13th, presumably as an instructor. Released from the RAF in 1946, Gaskell rejoined in 1952 and retired on January 4 1963, as a Flight Lieutenant, in the General Duties Branch, qualified in Photographic Interpretation.

APO (AAF) 10.4.40 PO 7.6.40

APO 23.10.39 PO 17.5.40 FO 17.5.41 FL 17.5.42 FL 17.7.52

WILLIAM EDWIN GAUNT 115719

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

23 Squadron

LIONEL MANLEY GAUNCE 37632

FL

Pilot

Canadian

615 Squadron

Gaunt was born on August 7 1918. He joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (751946). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 23 Squadron at Middle Wallop on September 16 1940.

Gaunce was born on September 20 1915 in Lethbridge, Alberta. He served in the Loyal Edmonton Regiment from 1933 to 1935.

Commissioned in January 1942, Gaunt was released from the RAF in 1946. He rejoined in 1955, in the Secretarial Branch, and retired on May 29 1965, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1990.

He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty on January 6 1936, as a pupil pilot. Gaunce went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on March 9 for a short induction course, after which he was posted, on March 21, to 5 FTS, Sealand. He completed his intermediate and advanced training and then joined 3 Squadron at Kenley on October 11 1936. Gaunce was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant and appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on April 19 1939. He was admitted to RAF Uxbridge Hospital on June 29 1939, after colliding with a car whilst on a motor cycle outside the South Camp guard room. Gaunce was discharged from

PO 27.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 27.1.44 FL 26.5.55

ARTHUR GAVAN 115126

Sgt

Pilot

British

54 Squadron

Born on April 5 1920 at Kingston-upon-Hull, Gavan joined the RAFVR in August 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754851). Called up at the outbreak of war, he completed his flying training, converted to Spitfires at 7 OTU, Hawarden between September 2 and 9 1940 and then joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on September 16.

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JOHN RICHARD HENSMAN GAYNER

Gavan served with the squadron for the remainder of the Battle of Britain and was posted away to 421 Flight at Hawkinge on December 15 1940. The Flight was re-numbered 91 Squadron and expanded to squadron strength on January 18 1941. Gavan went to 53 OTU, Llandow on August 28, as an instructor. Commissioned in December 1941, he moved to 59 OTU, Longtown, Northern Ireland on March 30 1942. From September 20 1942 to February 8 1943 Gavan was in RAF Hospital, Halton, the result of being knocked off his bicycle in a road accident. He returned to 59 OTU and served there until July 21 1943, when he was posted to RAF Cranwell. After a course at 2 FIS, Gavan returned to Cranwell and instructed at 17 FTS there until July 1944, when he moved with it to Wellingore. In mid-January 1945 Gavan was posted to the USA, crossing the Atlantic in the Mauretania, to be Assistant Chief Flying Instructor at No 1 BFTS, Terrell, Texas. He returned to the UK in November 1945, returned to Cranwell and was released from there on January 12 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. Gavan went to work for Redcar Town Council and in December 1946 he joined 608 Squadron, RAuxAF at Thornaby (No 91251). He rejoined the RAF at Hendon on August 6 1952, went on a refresher course to South Cerney and after a course at CFS, Upavon he resumed instructing. In September 1955 he converted to Helicopters and in December joined 275 Squadron at Thornaby, as a Flight Commander, on search and rescue duties. In February 1958 he went to 22 Squadron in Nicosia, as a Flight Commander, to take part in anti-terrorist operations. After return to the UK Gavan carried out a number of rescues over the North Sea, some in very bad weather conditions, with 202 Squadron at Coltishall, for which he received a Mention in Despatches. He went to British Guyana in 1966 with a detachment, on peacekeeping duties. On June 22 1967 Gavan was killed in a helicopter accident off the Norfolk coast, near Caistor, very near his base. A rotor blade broke off during a training exercise and the helicopter went into the sea. The aircraft was one used by his flight in British Guyana and had only flown ten hours after a complete manufacturer’s overhaul.

90399

FL

Pilot

British

615 Squadron Gayner joined 615 Squadron, AAF at Kenley at its formation on June 1 1937 and was one of four candidates for pilot training.

He was called for full-time service on August 24 1939 and flew with the squadron to Merville on November 15, in a Gladiator. The squadron was withdrawn to Kenley on May 20 1940, to have its still-existing Gladiators replaced by Hurricanes. On July 14 Gayner destroyed a Ju 87 over the Straits of Dover. On August 14 he damaged a Do 17and on the 24th damaged a He 111. Damaged in a combat over Portsmouth on August 26, Gayner made a crash-landing near Hambledown, in Hurricane P 2878. He was admitted to Idsworth House Hospital, with minor facial injuries. He rejoined 615 on September 22. Gayner was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on October 2 1940. He left the squadron in November. He commanded 153 Squadron in North Africa from December 1943 to July 1944. During the night of March 8/9 1944 Gayner destroyed a Do 217 near Reghaia in Italy, in Beaufighter MM 921.He was awarded the DFC (9.6.44). Gayner was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Wing Commander. He died in 1987. PO (AAF) 14.9.37 FO (AAF) 14.3.39 FO 24.8.39 FL .9.40 SL 1.6.42

ALAN WALTER GEAR 144002

Sgt

Pilot

British

32 Squadron

PO 26.12.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 26.12.43 FO (AAF) 12.12.46 FL 6.8.52 Gear was born on February 2 1916 in the Redhill area. He worled for Hall & Co. He joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745510) and carried out his elementary training on Magisters at 15 E&RFTS, Redhill.

ALAN ANTILL GAWITH 41012

FO

Pilot

New Zealander

23 Squadron

Born in Masterton on May 9 1916, Gawith was educated at Wellington and Nelson and studied law at Victoria College from 1935 to 1937. He was working for a law firm in Wellington when he applied for an RAF short service commission in November 1937.

Called up on September 20 1939, he was posted to 8 EFTS, Woodley on October 23. Whilst there, he had a motor cycle accident and was badly concussed and hospitalised. On May 16 1940 Gear went to 9 EFTS, Ansty for a refresher course, before being posted to 12 FTS, Grantham for No 11 Course, which ran from June 9 to September 7 1940. He moved to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 7, converted to Hurricanes and then joined 32 Squadron at Acklington on October 3 1940. He stayed with the squadron until October 18 1941, when he was posted to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course. Gear instructed at 9 FTS, Hullavington on Masters from December 15 1941 until July 15 1942, then at 58 OTU, Balado Bridge for a few weeks and finally at 9(P) AFU, Errol, where he instructed FAA pupils on the Swordfish, Albacore and Walrus. On October 18 1942 Gear was posted to 72 Squadron at Ouston and went with it to North Africa in November. On December 10 Gear damaged a Ju 88, but this was probably the one reported lost by KG 60 on that day. He claimed a Ju 87 destroyed on January 5 1943, damaged a Bf 109 on April 11, claimed one destroyed on April 22, damaged another Bf 109 on the 23rd, destroyed a Me 210 on May 21 and destroyed an unidentified enemy aircraft on June 20 1943. Gear was commissioned from Warrant Officer on January 11 1943, awarded the DFC (27.7.43) and posted away from 72 on October 14 1943, to become a test pilot at 59 RSU, Foggia. In early January 1944 he crashed after his engine failed and suffered severe injuries, including a broken back. Gear was invalided out of the RAF in early 1945, as a Flying Officer. He returned to Hall & Co and became depot transport manager. He was an early and longstanding member of the Handlebar Club. Gear died on May 22 2003.

Gawith was provisionally accepted and sailed for the UK in the RMS Arawa on May 20 1938. He went to 11 E&RFTS, Perth on June 27 for his ab initio training, after which he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge for a short course. In early September 1938 Gawith moved to 6 FTS, Little Rissington, for intermediate and advanced training. On completion, he joined 23 Squadron at Wittering on April 15 1939. Gawith was still with the squadron at the start of the Battle of Britain. Flying from Ford in the evening of October 10 1940, Gawith damaged a Ju 88 S off Worthing and in the evening of the 14th he damaged an unidentified enemy aircraft off the South Coast. On March 8 1941, on an intruder flight over Beauvais aerodrome, he damaged a He 111 and a Do 17. In a bombing attack in early May Gawith destroyed the entire telephone communication system of the German bomber group at Deurne, near Eindhoven. Awarded the DFC (15.5.41), he was posted in June to command 1451 Flight at Hunsdon, operating with Turbinlite Havocs. In December 1941 Gawith was rested and in January 1942 he was posted to HQ 9 Group, Preston, as Ops Night. He went to RAF Staff College, Gerrards Cross for a course in August 1943 and afterwards joined the staff at HQ ADGB, to work on the invasion plans of Europe. In mid-April 1944 Gawith became Senior RAF Liaison Officer at the US 9th Air Defence Command, with the rank of Acting Wing Commander. He crossed to France on June 26, spent six weeks in the Cherbourg beach-head area and remained with the Americans until December 1944. On the 20th he took command of RAF Cleave. Gawith, who had transferred to the RNZAF on January 1 1944, returned to New Zealand in October 1945 and went on to the Reserve in January 1946. He resumed his law studies and after qualifying in 1949 he joined the family firm of solicitors in Masterton. On August 2 1949 he received the Bronze Star (US) from the American ambassador in Wellington for meritorious service in 1944. Gawith died on March 8 2013.

PO 11.1.43 FO 12.7.43

KEITH IRVINE GEDDES 73045

FO

Pilot

British

604 Squadron

Geddes was born in Woking on October 25 1918. He was educated at Loretto School and Caius College, Cambridge, where he read Engineering. Whilst there, he learned to fly with the University Air Squadron in 1937/8 and was commissioned in the RAFVR in June 1939. Called to full-time service at the outbreak of war, he was posted to RAF College FTS, Cranwell on October 24 1939 to complete his training.

APO 20.8.38 PO 27.6.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.1.44

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Geddes went to 5 OTU on June 22 1940, converted to Blenheims and then joined 604 Squadron at Gravesend on July 8. On July 14 Geddes was detached from 604 to HQ 11 Group, Uxbridge for a short R/T procedure and elementary fighter attacks course. He served with 604 throughout the Battle of Britain. In March 1941 he teamed up with Sergeant B Cannon (q v). During the night of the 12/13th they shot down a Ju 88 engaged in a raid on Portsmouth, on the 14/15th a He 111 was destroyed and on the 16/17th they damaged a He 111. In the early hours of June 5 1941 Geddes and Cannon shot down another He 111, into the sea off Ventnor, Isle of Wight. Soon after midnight on the 15th another He 111 was destroyed. The team’s final victory came during the night of July 8/9 1941, when a Ju 88 was shot down over Dorset. Geddes was awarded the DFC (4.7.41). Geddes left 604 in October 1941 and from early December 1941 he commanded GCI stations in the South-west. On March 18 1944 he was posted to the staff at HQ Fighter Command and was released from the RAF on November 25 1945, as a Squadron Leader. He died on March 30 1991.

Gent was posted direct to 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on July 27. He arrived there with two other newly-trained pilots, Sergeants T G Pickering and S A H Whitehouse 32’s CO, Squadron Leader J Worrall, would have none of this and the three arrivals were attached to the Biggin Hill Sector Training Flight. After making a few short flights, they were attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 3. Having converted to Hurricanes, they rejoined 32 in late August. Three days later the squadron was ordered to Acklington for a rest. The new CO said that Gent, Pickering and Whitehouse were not in need of a rest and they were posted to 501 Squadron at Gravesend on that day. Gent claimed Bf 109s destroyed on September 5 and October 25. Whilst ferrying a new squadron Magister from Kemble to Filton on January 12 1941, Gent crashed at Greenore, Wells, after hitting some trees in low cloud, and was killed. He was 24 and is buried in St Martin’s churchyard, Ashurst, Kent.

PO (RAFVR) 20.6.39 PO 9.11.39

DUDLEY GUY GIBBINS

FO 5.9.40 FL 5.9.41

119136

Sgt

Pilot

British

VICTOR DAVID GEE 742767

Sgt

Pilot

British

Gibbins joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754428) and began flying at 20 E&RFTS, Gravesend.

219 Squadron

Gee was born in Norfolk and was educated at Paston School, North Walsham. He joined the RAFVR in December 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his flying training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 45 Course, from December 11 1939 to June 10 1940.

Called up at the outbreak of war, Gibbins was posted to No 1 ITW, Cambridge and moved to 5 EFTS, Hanworth in November 1939. He was at 3 FTS, South Cerney for No 33 Course, which ran from March 25 to July 11 1940. Gibbins joined 54 Squadron at Rochford direct from 3 FTS on July 13. He was attached to 7 OTU, Hawarden two days later. After converting to Spitfires, Gibbins rejoined 54 Squadron, then at Hornchurch, on August 9. He made his first flight with the squadron on that day and became operational

He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 22 and after converting to Blenheims, Gee joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on July 7 and served with it throughout the Battle of Britain. On December 8 1940 Gee was detached from 219 to an AI course at Debden and rejoined the squadron on the 12th. On February 13 1941 Gee was on a night exercise when his aircraft began to vibrate violently. He and his radar operator baled out safely and their Beaufighter, R 2120, crashed at Partridge Green, Sussex. He was killed on March 21 1941, when his Beaufighter, R 2070, dived into the ground at Manor Farm, Eastergate, Sussex. Gee is buried in St Bartholomew’s churchyard, Hanworth, Norfolk.

on August 23. After destroying a Bf 109 on the 31st, Gibbins was himself shot down, apparently by a Hurricane. He baled out low and landed at Tinley Lodge, Shipbourne. His Spitfire, X 4054, crashed and burned out near Great Hollanden Farm, Hildenborough. He suffered burns and an injury to his spine, though the latter was not diagnosed until long after the war. Gibbins was posted to 222 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 11 and shared in the destruction of a Bf 109 on October 17. On December 13 he was posted to 611 Squadron at Digby and in April 1941 he went to 14 FTS, Cranfield, as an instructor. Commissioned in November 1941, Gibbins instructed at 19(P) AFU, Dalcross in 1942/ 43 and from July 1943 until October 1944 he was at 7 FIS, Upavon. Gibbins went to 83 Group Support Unit at Westhampnett in November 1944. He joined 130 Squadron at Fassberg in May 1945 and was with the squadron for four months in Norway prior to his release in December 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. Gibbins died in 1995. His brother was an officer with The Worcestershire Regiment, killed during the Arnhem operation.

TERENCE GENNEY 79204

PO

Air Gunner

British

604 Squadron

Genney was born in Grimsby on June 3 1896 and was educated at Louth School and St James’ School, Grimsby. He enlisted in the Lincolnshire Regiment on September 7 1914 and was commissioned in the Royal Field Artillery on October 1 1914. He was awarded the MC (18.1.18) and promoted to Acting Captain on March 22 1918. Genney was gassed on September 6 and evacuated from France to England three days later. He was released from the Army on March 14 1919, retaining the rank of Captain. In September 1939 Genney was working as a bank clerk. He was re-employed in the Army Officers’ Emergency Reserve on March 12 1940. He was released from this and commissioned in the RAFVR on May 4, as a direct-entry Air Gunner. After carrying out his gunnery training at 8 B&GS on No 11 Air Gunner course, which ran from May 6 to June 1 1940, Genney joined 604 Squadron at Northolt on June 2. He teamed up with Flight Lieutenant A S Hunter. When the squadron began reequipping with Beaufighters in September 1940, Genney retrained as a Radio Observer. On February 6 1941 Hunter and Genney took off in the dark for a belated air test. The Beaufighter went into a spin on its landing approach and crashed. Both men were killed. Genney was 44. He is buried in Grimsby (St Nicholas) churchyard. A plaque includng his name was unveiled at St James’ School on November 11 2011.

PO 20.11.41

61012

Pilot

British

Sgt

Observer

British

236 Squadron

Born in 1914, Gibbons worked for ten years as a solicitor’s clerk. He joined the RAFVR in July 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (755439). Called up in September, he went to 4 ITW, Bexhill, after which he was on No 1 Air Observer Course at No 11 Air Observer Navigation School from November 20 1939 to March 9 1940, as an LAC. Gibbons went on to a B&GS, to complete his training. In May 1940 he was posted to 3 GRU, Coastal Command, flying in Wellingtons. He joined 236 Squadron on July 19. Commissioned in February 1941, he was posted in May to 2 (Coastal) OTU, as an instructor. In July 1942 Gibbons went to 280 Squadron, as Squadron Navigation Officer. He became Station Navigation Officer at RAF Thornaby in March 1944 and two months later he was posted to Air Ministry for Air Crew Selection Board duties. Gibbons left the RAF in 1954, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. He died in August 2004. His ashes were interred in Tangmere Memorial Garden on October 16 2004.

RAYMOND JOHN KITCHELL GENT Sgt

FO 1.10.42 FL 20.11.43

CHARLES MARTIN GIBBONS

2nd Lt 1.10.14 Actg Capt 22.3.18 APO 4.5.40 PO 1.6 .40

754361

54 and 222 Squadrons

32 and 501 Squadrons

Gent joined the RAFVR in June 1939. Called up on September 1, he completed his elementary flying training at 15 EFTS, Redhill. He moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand for No 47 Course, which ran from April 29 to July 25 1940.

PO 12.2.41 FO 12.2.42 FL 12.2.43 FL 19.2.47

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

JOHN ALBERT AXEL GIBSON 40969

FO

Pilot

New Zealander

HERBERT SELWYN GIDDINGS 501 Squadron

37283

FL

Pilot

Gibson was born in Brighton, England on August 24 1916 and went to New Zealand in 1920. He was educated in Auckland and New Plymouth Boys’ High School.

British

615 and 111 Squadrons Giddings of Knaresborough, Yorkshire, joined the RAF on a short service commission in July 1935. After his elementary flying training, he went to 3 FTS, Grantham on September 28 1935.

In late 1937 Gibson applied for an RAF short service commission and, after provisional acceptance, sailed for the UK on April 7 1938 in the RMS Rangitata. He began his flying training at 4 E&RFTS, Brough on May 16 1938, as a pupil pilot, and on July 9 he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, for an induction course. He moved on to 3 FTS, South Cerney on July 23 for intermediate and advanced training. With the course completed, he was posted to No 1 AACU at Farnborough. He later served with ‘C’ Flight, No 1 AACU, which moved from Weston Zoyland to Penrhos on December 4 1939. On this day Gibson was attached to 9 Air Observer School. He was posted from ‘C’ Flight, No 1 AACU to No 1 RAF Depot at Uxbridge on May 20 1940, for onward movement to France. Gibson joined 501 Squadron at Anglure on May 21. He destroyed a He 111 and shared a second on May 27, during which action he was himself shot down, crash-landing in a field. On the 29th he got a probable He 111, on the 30th shot down a He 111 and damaged another, on June 4 damaged another and on the 5th probably destroyed a He 111 and damaged another. On the 10th Gibson destroyed a Bf 109 but was himself shot down and baled out near Le Mans. His final success in France was a Bf 109, possibly shot down on the 14th. 501 Squadron was withdrawn from France on June 18, operated from Jersey on the 19th and re-assembled at Croydon on June 21. Gibson claimed a He 111 damaged on July 9, a Do 17 destroyed on the 13th, a Ju 87 destroyed and another damaged on the 29th and a Do 17 damaged on the 31st. He destroyed a Ju 87, damaged another and destroyed a Bf 109 on August 12. When he landed back at Hawkinge, Gibson tipped up his Hurricane, P 2986, into a bomb crater. On the 15th he shot down a Ju 87 and damaged another. In this action, Gibson’s Hurricane, P 3582, was set alight by return fire. He steered it away from Folkestone, bringing it down to 1000 feet before baling out. On August 24 Gibson destroyed a Ju 88. On August 25 he was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant next day. On the 28th he damaged a Bf 109 and on the 29th he shot down a Bf 109. In this combat he was again set on fire and baled out over the sea, two miles offshore, and was picked up by a motor boat. Gibson was awarded the DFC (30.8.40). He damaged a Do 17 on September 2, shot down a Bf 109 on the 6th and damaged another on the 7th. His last operational sortie with 501 was on September 23. The following day he evidently became ill and was admitted to Princess Mary’s RAF Hospital at Halton. He was posted away from 501 on October 2 1940. Gibson joined 53 OTU, Heston on May 28 1941, as an instructor. In early January 1942 he went to 457(RAAF) Squadron at Jurby, as a Flight Commander. On the expiry of his short service commission, he returned to New Zealand in May 1942 and was attached to the RNZAF from June 13. Gibson joined the newly-formed 15 Squadron and went with it to Tonga, where it took over the P 40s of the 68th Pursuit Squadron, USAAF, with which aircraft it eventually became operational. Gibson returned to New Zealand in mid-December 1942, to a staff job at Air HQ Control Group. In May 1943 he went on a course at the Army Staff College at Palmerston North. On December 15 he returned to 15 Squadron, this time as CO. The squadron took part in the heavy fighting of the Bougainville landings. Gibson destroyed a Zeke fighter on January 23 1944. The squadron returned to New Zealand for a rest on February 11 and returned to Guadalcanal in May 1944, moving in June to Bougainville. Tour-expired, Gibson returned with the squadron to New Zealand in late July and was posted away in August. He left for the UK on October 31 1944. Gibson flew with 80 Squadron at Volkel from March 3 to April 2 1945 and was involved in the Rhine crossing, covering the airborne operation. He was awarded the DSO (11.3.45). On December 1 1945 he ceased his attachment to the RAF and transferred to the RNZAF but on December 24 1946 he rejoined the RAF. In 1947 Gibson was pilot of Montgomery’s personal aircraft, in 1948/49 he was personal aide and pilot to Marshal of the RAF Lord Tedder. He retired from the RAF in 1954 and went to live in South Africa, where he flew for the Chamber of Mines in Johannesburg. Gibson later moved to their forward base in Bechuanaland, where he operated nine DC 3s and four DC 4s, both as CFI and until 1965 as a Line Captain. He then formed Bechuanaland National Airways and was its General Manager. In 1969/70 Gibson took part in ‘sanction-busting’ after UDI in Rhodesia. He flew supplies in and brought refugee children out of Biafra during the war there. On these flights his son, Michael, flew as co-pilot. Gibson later formed an air charter company, Jagair, operating from Kariba, Zimbabwe. He retired in 1982 and returned to the UK in 1987. Gibson died in July 2000.

He joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 5 1936. Following the outbreak of war, Giddings joined 615 Squadron on October 3 1939 and flew with it to Merville on November 15. The squadron was withdrawn to Kenley on May 20 1940, to complete its being re-equipped with Hurricanes from Gladiators. On June 30 Giddings probably destroyed a Bf 109, on July 20 he damaged a Ju 87 and on August 18 he probably destroyed a Do 17. It was his last day with 615 and he moved to 111 Squadron at Debden, and was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander. On the 31st he claimed a Do 17 destroyed. He made a forced-landing at Detling in the middle of a bombing attack on September 2, following an attack on He 111s over the Thames Estuary. Giddings claimed two Bf 109s destroyed and another damaged in a combat over the Channel on September 4. His oil system was damaged in the action and he made a forcedlanding at Catts Green Farm, Ewhurst, in Hurricane Z 2315. He took command of 135 Squadron at Dum Dum, India in July 1942. Giddings was killed on January 23 1943. An enemy aircraft was seen heading for Chittagong. He took off in pursuit but did not return. The wreck of his aircraft was found later. He was 28. He is remembered on the Singapore Memorial, Column 423. APO 16.9.35 PO 16.9.36 FO 16.6.38 FL 16.6.40 SL 1.9.41

JOZEF GIL 76765

PO

Pilot

Polish

43, 229 and 145 Squadrons

Gil was born on January 30 1914. He arrived in England in early 1940, and was commissioned in the RAFVR in late January. He moved to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool on June 1 1940. Gil was on the 5th Polish Pilots’ Course at No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum from August 23 to September 1, for testing and grading. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 1, converted to Hurricanes, and joined 43 Squadron at Usworth on the 21st. He moved to 229 Squadron at Northolt on October 19 and then joined 145 Squadron at Tangmere on the 30th. Gil was injured on December 29 1940, when he crashed at East Dean, Sussex, whilst flying low after dark, looking for Tangmere. On March 12 1941 Gil was posted to 53 OTU at Heston, as an instructor. He joined 315 (Polish) Squadron at Speke on April 13. Flying from Northolt, he claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed on August 9 and another destroyed on the 14th. He was awarded the KW (10.9.41). On October 24 1941 he probably shot down a Bf 109. Gil was awarded a Bar to the KW (15.2.42) and on June 13 1942 he joined 306 (Polish) Squadron at Northolt. He destroyed a FW 190 and damaged a Bf 109 on October 9 and got a second Bar to the KW (15.11.42). On a high cover operation over the Abbeville area on December 31 1942, Gil was shot down by a FW 190, in Spitfire BS 455. He was last seen heading towards the Channel. He has no known grave. Gil is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (20.2.43). PO 27.1.40

ERNEST GEORGE GILBERT 44548

PO

Pilot

British

64 Squadron

Gilbert was born on November 4 1912 and was educated at Chatham Junior Technical School. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice (562706), beginning at 2 Wing, School of Technical Training, Halton on September 6 1928. He passed out as a Fitter in August 1931 and was posted to RAF Eastchurch. Having earlier applied for pilot-training, Gilbert was selected and he went to 5 FTS, Sealand on October 1 1934. After qualifying as a Sergeant-Pilot, he joined 6 Squadron at Ismailia, when its Fighter Flight was reformed in October 1935. At Heliopolis on March 1 1936 the Flight joined with a Flight from 29 Squadron and they reformed as 64 Squadron. The squadron returned to the UK in September 1936, to Martlesham Heath, and Gilbert

APO 9.7.38 PO 16.5.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.44 FL 1.12.42

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was with it for the next four years. On June 12 1940 he shared in the destruction of a He 111. On August 13 he damaged a Do 17 and on the 15th he made a forced-landing at Hawkinge, damaged in combat with Bf 109s over Dungeness. On the 16th he damaged a He 111 and on the 18th he shared in the destruction of a He 111. Commissioned from Flight Sergeant in early September 1940, Gilbert was posted to CFS, Upavon on December 1, for an instructor’s course. From January 1941 until September 29 1944, when he came off flying on medical grounds, he instructed at 14 EFTS, Elmdon; 17 EFTS, North Luffenham and Peterborough and 21(P) AFU at Wheaton Aston. Gilbert was in the Administrative and Special Duties Branch, when he retired on March 11 1948. He was re-employed on November 1 1950, in the Air Traffic Control Branch, serving at home and overseas prior to his retirement on November 4 1962, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader.

741587

Pilot

British

British

72 Squadron

On return to Britain, he then finished his education at Bancroft’s School, Woodford Green. On May 21 1938 Gilders joined the RAFVR and began flying at 18 E&RFTS, Fair Oaks and soloed on June 11. Called up on September 1 1939, he was posted to No 1 ITW at Cambridge on November 6. Gilders went to 3 FTS, South Cerney on February 1 1940 and with the course completed, he joined 72 Squadron at Acklington on June 15. He was slightly injured in a nightlanding accident on August 22, in Spitfire N 3221. The squadron moved south to Biggin Hill on the 31st. Gilders claimed a Do 17 damaged on September 2, a Bf 110 destroyed on the 4th, he shared a Do 17 on the 10th, claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on the 11th and a He 111 forced down on the 15th. He damaged Do 17s on the 24th and 25th and destroyed two Bf 109s and a Ju 88 over Sevenoaks on the 27th. 72 Squadron moved to Leconfield on October 19. Gilders went to 616 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on November 8 but on the 26th he joined 41 Squadron at Hornchurch. Gilders was killed on February 21 1941, when his Spitfire, P 7816, dived into soft ground near the Great Stour River at Chilham, Kent and buried itself. Although Gilders is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, on Panel 43, it always seemed certain that he went in with his aircraft. In 1990 the crash site was located but in spite of requests by Gilders’ family for the wreckage to be excavated and for him to be given a proper burial, the owner of the land would not permit access, even for family members to place flowers. In April 1994 the site was investigated again, with the owner’s permission, and Gilders’ body was found. After many months of legal wrangling, permission was finally given for the remains to be exhumed. On May 12 1995 Gilders was buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery, with full military honours.

HUMPHREY TRENCH GILBERT FO

Pilot

Gilders was born in Deal, Kent on October 4 1919, the son of an accountant. Mr Gilders went to Brazil to work for Unilever in the early 1920s and Gilders’ early years were spent there.

PO 7.9.40 FO 26.8.41 FL 26.8.42 FL 27.10.47

40530

Sgt

601 Squadron

Gilbert, of Revesby, Lincolnshire, was born on November 3 1919. He was educated at Durnford School and was at Cheltenham College from January 1934 to July 1937. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on December 6 1937 at 7 E&RFTS, Desford. On February 18 1938, Gilbert went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, for a short disciplinary course. He was posted to 9 FTS, Hullavington on March 5. Gilbert was awarded his flying badge on June 1 1938, completed his training and joined 73 Squadron at Digby on September 17. He was sent to CFS, Upavon on October 23 and qualified as an instructor on December 22 1938. In January 1939 Gilbert was posted to 504 Squadron, AAF, as Flying Instructor. He left 504 Squadron on September 7 1939 and joined the staff at 9 FTS, Hullavington, as a flying instructor. On August 3 1940 he was posted from there to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 601 Squadron at Tangmere on the 16th. Gilbert shared in destroying a Ju 87 on the 18th, shared a He 111 on the 30th, destroyed a Bf 110 on the 31st and was shot down over the Thames Estuary, in Hurricane V 7260. He baled out, unhurt. Gilbert destroyed a Bf 110 on September 4. Two days later he was shot down by a Bf 109 over Mayfield. Again he baled out but this time he was wounded. He landed at Pembury and his Hurricane, V 6647, crashed at Kippings Cross, near Pembury. He was admitted to hospital and he did not rejoin 601 until early November 1940. In late April 1941 Gilbert was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander. A month later he was temporarily attached to 1422 Flight at Heston. He flew night sorties in a Hurricane, accompanying a Havoc in what were early tests on Turbinlite aircraft. Gilbert was posted to 71(Eagle) Squadron at Martlesham Heath on September 3 1941, as a Flight Commander. He was given command of 222 Squadron at North Weald on November 1 and on December 23 1941 he moved to Debden, to take over 65 Squadron. When the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau made their Channel Dash on February 12 1942, the squadron was involved in combat with the German fighter cover. Gilbert destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another. On a Boston escort to Hazebrouck on April 12, he shot down a FW 190. Gilbert crashed on May 2 1942, attempting to take off from Debden in a Spitfire, with the Controller on his lap. They were said to have been going to a party. Both men were killed. Gilbert is buried in Saffron Walden Cemetery, Essex. The award of the DFC was gazetted after his death (29.5.42).

JAMES VIVIAN GILL 759007

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

23 Squadron

Gill joined the RAFVR in August 1939 as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 23 Squadron at Middle Wallop on September 29 1940. He failed to return from an operation to Bremen on the night of June 29/30 1941. His Wellington, R 1509, was hit by flak over Bremen and then raked by fire by a Bf 110 nightfighter. The crew baled out, with Gill badly wounded. He landed in a tree and when he released himself from his parachute, he fell 40 feet. Gill died in hospital next day. He was 19 and serving with 115 Squadron, flying in Wellingtons from Marham, Norfolk. Gill is buried in Becklingen War Cemetery, Sollau, Germany.

DENYS EDGAR GILLAM 37167

FL

Pilot

British

616 and 312 Squadrons Gillam was born at Tynemouth on November 18 1915 and he was educated at Bramcote, Scarborough and Wrekin College, Shropshire. He got his ‘A’ Licence at Public School Aviation Camp at Norwich on September 12 1934.

APO 19.2.38 PO 6.12.38 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 He joined the RAF on a short service commission in February 1935 and was posted to 6 FTS, Netheravon on May 7. With flying training completed, he joined 29 Squadron at North Weald on March 6 1936. Gillam was posted to the Met Flight at Aldergrove on January 25 1937. He was awarded the AFC (9.6.38) for flying food to Rathlin Island, isolated by a gale for three weeks. He made two perilous landings in a Westland Wallace. He joined 616 Squadron at Doncaster on September 27 1939, from Aldergrove. On October 31 Gillam was given command of ‘B’ Flight. He was detached to AFDU at Northolt on November 26 1939, for an Air Fighting Instructors’ Course. The date of his return to 616 is not known. Gillam re-assumed command of ‘B’ Flight on February 21 1940. Over Dunkirk on June 1 1940 he damaged a Ju 88. Gillam claimed a Ju 88 destroyed on August 15, a Bf 109 on the 26th, a Bf 110 on the 29th, a Bf 109 destroyed, another probably destroyed and another two damaged on the 30th and another Bf 109 destroyed on the 31st. On September 1 1940 Gillam destroyed a Do 17, probably another Do 17 and a Bf 109

PETER ROBERT JOSEPH GILBERT Midshipman (FAA)

Pilot

British

111 Squadron

Gilbert joined the FAA in September 1939. He carried out his elementary flying training at 14 EFTS, Elmdon, after which he went to No 1 FTS, Leuchars, on No 8 Course, which ran from January 15 to June 22 1940. He was attached to the RAF on June 29 1940 and went to 12 OTU, Benson, where he converted to Battles before joining 142 Squadron at Binbrook, a light bomber unit. Gilbert later went to Fighter Command and he joined 111 Squadron at Croydon on September 22. He was posted away on December 31 1940, to 86 Squadron, recentlyreformed at Gosport and equipped with Blenheims. He was with 787 Squadron at Yeovilton in June 1942 and was released from the service on September 11 1946. Midshipman 11.9.39

Sub-Lt 25.2.42 Lt 1.4.43

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and damaged a third Do 17 and on the 2nd he destroyed a Bf 110. In this last action his engine was set alight by a Bf 110 over the Maidstone area. Gillam baled out, unhurt. His Spitfire, X 4181, crashed at Brook Farm, Capel. Gillam was posted to 312 (Czech) Squadron at Speke on September 6, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. He destroyed a Ju 88 as he took off on October 8, the squadron’s first victory and probably the fastest confirmed victory of the war. He was awarded the DFC (12.11.40). On December 1 1940 Gillam took command of 306 (Polish) Squadron at Ternhill. He was posted to HQ 9 Group on March 2 1941 and returned to operations in July, as CO of 615 Squadron. He destroyed two He 59s on the water on October 9 1941, was awarded a Bar to the DFC (21.10.41) and the DSO (12.12.41). Gillam was shot down on November 23 by ground fire at Dunkirk and baled out, wounded in legs and arms. He got into his dinghy and was protected by aircraft of 615 until an ASR launch from the Goodwins picked him up. In January 1942 Gillam went to the USA to lecture American aircrews. Back in the UK in March, he went to Duxford to form the first Typhoon Wing, which made its first operational appearance at Dieppe on August 19 1942. Gillam went to RAF Staff College in October and was posted to HQ 12 Group in February 1943. He was sent to the Command and General Staff School, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas in August and after his return to the UK, he was appointed Wing Leader, 146 Wing in December. He took command of 20 Sector 2nd TAF in April 1944 and on July 17 he took command of 146 Wing. He was awarded a Bar to the DSO (11.8.44). On October 24 Gillam led the Wing against a building in Dordrecht, where a conference of high-ranking German officers was taking place. Gillam dived from 6,000 feet and dropped a marker bomb, followed by two 500 lb bombs. He was followed by five Typhoons, which bombed from a very low level. Among the dead were two Generals, 17 senior officers and 55 other officers of HQ German Fifteenth Army. Awarded a second Bar to the DSO (23.1.45), Gillam was posted in February 1945 to HQ 84 Group, as Group Captain Ops. In August he went to 84 Group Disbandment Centre and was released from the RAF in October 1945. Gillam rejoined 616 Squadron, AAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in September 1991.

70245

FO

Pilot

British

Gillen joined the RAFO in May 1937 and began his elementary flying training on May 31, as a pupil pilot. He went to 8 FTS, Montrose for No 7 Course, from August 21 1937 to April 9 1938. It is almost certain that he would have served briefly with a squadron before going on to the Reserve on May 31 1938. Called up on September 2 1939, Gillen went to 11 Group Pool, St Athan. He joined 615 Squadron at Croydon on September 11, then moved to 152 Squadron at Acklington on October 2. Gillen was detached with Blue Section of ‘B’ Flight of 152 from Acklington to Sumburgh in the Shetlands on November 25 1939, to provide fighter cover with its Gladiators for Coastal Command. Gillen destroyed a He 111 over the Shetlands on January 1 1940. Blue Section was redesignated Fighter Flight RAF Sumburgh on January 5 and it ceased to be part of 152 Squadron on the 12th, then becoming a unit of Coastal Command. On June 5 1940 Gillen claimed a Do 17 destroyed eight miles N of Lerwick. No Luftwaffe losses were reported that day but a Hudson of 233 Squadron was lost in the area. The Fighter Flight began to move in stages from Sumburgh to Roborough, near Plymouth, on July 21. It again came under the control of Fighter Command and was redesignated 247 Squadron on August 1 1940. Gillen was still with 247 on November 16 1940. No further service details have been traced. Gillen was released from the RAF in 1948, as a Wing Commander. He died in 1969. APO (RAFO) 9.8.37 1.12.41

PO (RAFO) 31.5.38 PO 2.9.39 FO 30.11.39 FL 30.11.40 SL

JAMES LYON GILLESPIE 76902

PO

Air Gunner

Observer

British

248 Squadron

Gillam, of Bury, Lancashire, joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 248 Squadron in late Spring 1940. He was detached to No 1(C) OTU, Silloth on May 31 and rejoined 248 on June 29. Gillam flew nine operational sorties during the Battle of Britain period. He flew his last sortie on September 22 1940 and was probably posted away from 248 Squadron very soon afterwards. He was killed on October 19 1941, serving as a Flight Sergeant with 404 (RCAF) Squadron, a maritime reconnaissance and strike unit. He was 30 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 36.

APO 30.12.39 PO 13.5.40

JAMES GILLIES 47317

FO

Pilot

British

F/Sgt

Pilot

British

54 and 602 Sqdns and 421 Flt

Gillies, from Intake, Yorkshire, joined the RAF about March 1935, as an Aircrafthand (519573). He later applied for pilot-training and was selected. He completed his flying training and joined 41 Squadron on April 1 1939, as a Sergeant-Pilot.

JAMES GILLAN 37675

23 Squadron

They passed out and were graded as Pilot Officers on February 26 1940 but Gillespie was held back, possibly for health reasons, and did not qualify until May 13. He joined 23 Squadron at Collyweston some time prior to July 19 1940, the date he is first mentioned in 23’s ORB. On that day he was part of a crew on an AA co-operation flight. He flew his last operational sortie with 23 on September 23 and died in St Richard’s Hospital, Chichester on October 1 1940, as a result of illness. Gillespie was 34. He is buried in Chichester Cemetery.

ERNEST GILLAM Sgt

British

Gillespie joined the RAF in late December 1939, as a directentry Air Gunner. He did not complete his training with other trainees, who were commissioned at the same time as him.

APO 16.4.35 PO 16.4.36 FO 16.11.37 FL 16.11.39 SL 1.12.40 WC 1.3.42 FL (AAF) 8.10.46

746755

247 Squadron

On October 23 1939 he left 41 but returned later. Gillies was detached to 152 Squadron at Acklington on March 21 1940. He joined 5 B&GS on May 14, probably as a staff pilot. He was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron at Catterick prior to the 16th, on which day he made two flights with 54. Gillies moved to 602 Squadron at Westhampnett on September 18 1940, as a Flight Sergeant, and was made immediately operational. He flew his first sortie on the 20th, shared a Ju 88 on the 21st, damaged Bf 110s on the 24th and 25th and destroyed one on the 26th. He flew his last sortie with 602 on the 30th, making 18 sorties in eleven days. Gillies was posted on October 7 to 421 Flight, then being formed at Hawkinge. On the 17th he crashed in a Hurricane, on landing after a combat with Bf 109s, injured. He was non-effective sick until December 1 1940, when he rejoined 421 after a Medical Board. On December 7 he chased a Dornier to the French coast, with another pilot. Their attacks probably destroyed it. Gillies ran out of fuel on the way back and crashed 421 Flight‘s special blue Spitfire, just short of Hawkinge. On December 19 he probably destroyed a Do 17 near Cap Gris Nez. On January 11 1941, 421 Flight was re-numbered 91 Squadron. Gillies was on a reconnaissance patrol on April 11 when he saw a He 115 floatplane being towed by an 800 ton tender, near Cap Gris Nez. He returned to Hawkinge, reported the incident and later escorted a section of fighters to the area. Despite bad visibility, he located the tender and then participated in the attack,

601 Squadron

Gillan joined the RAF in January 1936 on a short service commission and began his elementary flying on January 27 1936, as a pupil pilot. On April 9 he was posted for intermediate and advanced training to 4 FTS, Abu Sueir, Egypt and, with the course completed, he joined 55 Squadron at Dhibban, Iraq on December 15 1936. Back in the UK, Gillan was supernumerary at No 1 RAF Depot at Uxbridge in November 1938, and at the outbreak of war he was on the staff of RAF College FTS, Cranwell. On January 15 1940 Gillan was posted from Cranwell to the Imperial Training School in Canada. The date of his return to the UK is not known but he was instructing at 2 FTS, Brize Norton on July 6 1940, when he was posted from there to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. On the 13th Gillan made a forced-landing at Moulton March, Holbeach, in Hurricane N 2468, after his engine failed. Gillan was posted to 601 Squadron at Tangmere on August 3 1940. He failed to return from a combat off Portland on the 11th, in Hurricane P3783. He was 26 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 5. APO 23.3.36 PO 27.1.37 FO 27.10.38

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Armament course on January 1 1940. On completion of the course, he joined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on May 18. He flew his first operational sortie on June 7, escorting Blenheims to Abbeville. On July 19 Gillman claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed and on August 24 he destroyed another. He did not return from a combat over the Channel off Dover on August 25 1940 and was reported ‘Missing’. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 8.

which resulted in the floatplane being destroyed and the tender severely damaged. Returning to base, Gillies engaged and destroyed a Bf 109. For the day’s activities, he was awarded the DFM (30.5.41). He destroyed another Bf 109 on September 18 1941. Commissioned in November, Gillies was posted to 615 Squadron at Fairwood Common in February 1942 and went to India with the squadron in March. He is believed to have destroyed two Japanese aircraft on May 29 1943. Later he went to 79 Squadron, as a Flight Commander. On the night of March 27 1944 Gillies, with a small patrol, penetrated into a Japanese ammunition dump at Indaw, Burma. After he had rejoined the main force, he explained to the RAF the layout of the dump area. Gillies also arranged to indicate the target for the bombers. On April 4 he flew as a passenger in a light aircraft and placed smoke bombs around the target from a height of 50 feet, enabling the bombers to attack the dump area with great precision. For this operation, Gillies was awarded the MC (13.2.45). He was lost on April 21 1944, shot down, maybe by anti-aircraft fire. He was 29 and his name is on the Singapore Memorial, Column 431. PO 17.11.41

APO 27.5.39 PO 18.11.39

GEORGE KEMP GILROY 90481 FO

FL

He shared in destroying a He 111 over the Firth of Forth on October 28 1939, the first enemy aircraft to crash on British soil in the war. On January 19 and March 7 1940 Gilroy shared He 111s. He shared a Ju 88 on July 3, shared a Bf 110 on the 6th, shared another He 111 on the 12th, damaged another on the 18th and damaged another He 111 on the 24th. Gilroy destroyed Bf 109s on August 28 and 31. On the latter day he was shot down in combat over London and baled out. He was attacked by a crowd on landing and admitted to King George Hospital, Ilford. His Spifire, X 4271, crashed on to 14 Hereford Road, Wanstead. Gilroy was awarded the DFC (13.9.40). He was discharged from the hospital on September 17 and rejoined 603 the same day. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on October 28 and shared a Bf 110 on November 7. On November 9 Gilroy was slightly wounded and was posted to RAF Hornchurch, as non-effective sick. He rejoined 603 on November 14 and shared a He 111 on the 21st. He was badly injured in an accident on December 17 1940, when his Spitfire was hit by another. After several months off flying, Gilroy rejoined 603 during the second week of February 1941. He began flying in sweeps over France and on June 21, July 8 and 21 1941 he damaged Bf 109s. On July 29 Gilroy was given command of 609 Squadron at Gravesend. He claimed two Bf 109s destroyed on October 27, another on November 8, damaged a FW 190 on March 8 1942 and destroyed a Fw 190 on April 15. He was posted away from the squadron on May 31 1942 and awarded the C de G (Belg)(3.3.42) and a Bar to the DFC (23.6.42). In November 1942 Gilroy was posted to 325 Wing in East Africa but on the 29th he went to North Africa instead, to take command of 324 Wing. On the 30th he damaged a Ju 88, on December 6 damaged a Bf 109, on the 16th shared in destroying three Bf 109s on the ground and on the 28th he shot down two Hs 129s. On January 2 1943 Gilroy claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and shared another on the 11th and destroyed one on the 18th. He was in collision with Flight Lieutenant E B MortimerRose over Souk-el-Khemis on January 28 and baled out, slightly injured. Mortimer-Rose was killed. Gilroy got a probable Bf 109 and damaged another on February 23 1943 and was awarded the DSO (2.3.43). He destroyed a Bf 109 on April 3, shared a Ju 52 on the 22nd, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 24th, shared a He 111 on May 1, damaged a Bf 109 on the 5th, shared a probable Ju 88 on July 13 and destroyed a Mc 202 on September 4. In November 1943 Gilroy was promoted to Group Captain and returned to the UK, where he took command of RAF Wittering and later RAF Blakelow. He was awarded the DFC (US) (14.11.44). After release from the RAF, Gilroy rejoined the AAF and commanded 603 Squadron from June 1946 to September 23 1949. He died on March 25 1995. His ashes were scattered over Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa.

Pilot

British

66 Squadron

In March 1936 Gillies went into the RAF on a short service commission and on the 9th he began his ab initio course at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield. Gillies moved to No 1 Depot, Uxbridge on May 4, for a short disciplinary course, after which he was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose. He joined 66 Squadron at Duxford on December 25 1936. In June 1937 Gillies was a member of the squadron team at the Hendon Air Display, flying one of five Gauntlets in aerobatics and formation flying. On November 13 1939 he was posted to 254 Squadron, as ‘A’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. The squadron had been recently reformed at Stradishall, with Blenheim Is, for coastal duties. He went with the squadron to Bircham Newton and served with it until April 1940. On May 7 Gillies rejoined 66 Squadron, then at Duxford. On May 13 he claimed a Ju 87 destroyed and a Bf 109 damaged and on June 2 he damaged a Ju 88 over Dunkirk. On August 20 he shared a Bf 110 and on the 31st he shared a Do 17. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on September 7 1940, shared a Do 17, got a probable He 111and damaged another on the 15th, shared a He 111 and damaged a Bf 109 on the 18th, damaged a Bf 109 on the 23rd, shared in the destruction of three Do 17s and probably destroyed a Bf 110 on the 27th and destroyed a Bf 109 and a probable on the 30th. At 14.58 hrs on October 4 1940 Gillies took off from Gravesend, with Pilot Officers H M T Heron and A B Watkinson, to intercept any ‘stray’ bombers. They climbed above cloud to 13,000 feet and over the coast in the Hastings/Dungeness areas they sighted a He 111, which they chased through cloud and attacked. Gillies called up on the R/T to say that he was landing but gave no reason. The other two pilots made further attacks on the Heinkel, which escaped into cloud. Gillies was not heard from again and his body was washed up on October 21 on the Suffolk coast at Covehithe. His Spitfire, X 4320, must have crashed into the sea. Gillies is buried in the Thornton Garden of Rest, Lancashire. His gravestone also commemorates his cousin, 2nd Lieutenant Robert Emmett, Royal Artillery, killed at Tobruk, June 20 1942. APO 4.5.36 PO 3.3.37 FO 9.9.38 FL 3.9.40

KEITH REGINALD GILLMAN PO

603 Squadron

FO 1.10.42 FL 17.11.43

Gillies was born in Great Crosby, Lancashire, on April 12 1913. He was at Merchant Taylors’ School from January 1924 to July 1929. After leaving he worked with his brother until 1931, when he joined the Scottish Widows’ Fund and Life Assurance Society in Liverpool.

42053

British

Gilroy was born in Edinburgh on June 1 1914 and was a sheep farmer. He joined 603 Squadron, AAF in 1938 and was called to full-time service on August 23 1939.

KENNETH McLEOD GILLIES 37799

Pilot

Pilot

British

32 Squadron

APO (AAF) 10.11.38 SL (AAFRO) 1.8.46

Born in Dover on December 16 1920, Gillman attended the County School there from 1933 to 1938. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course at 22 E&RFTS, Cambridge on March 27 1939, as a pupil pilot.

PO 23.8.39

FO 3.9.40

FL 3.9.41

SL 23.12.42

WC 19.1.44

HAROLD ROY GILYEAT 1063606

On May 27 Gillman went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, on a short induction course. He was posted to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on June 10 1939, was awarded his flying badge on October 6 and went to the 11 Group Pool at St Athan on November 20 1939. After converting to Hurricanes, he was transferred to No 2 Ferry Pilot Pool on December 21 1939, as a reserve for France. Gillman was attached to RAF Manby for No 1 Air

AC

Radar Operator

British

29 Squadron

Gilyeat joined the RAFVR about June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. He probably volunteered for aircrew duties and went to Yatesbury for a short radar course, after which he joined 29 Squadron as a radar operator. He flew his first operational sortie on September 23 1940, two more on the 30th and his last on October 7. No further service details traced.

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ALEXANDER GEORGE GIRDWOOD

THOMAS PERCY GLEAVE

741908

29137

Sgt

Pilot

British

257 Squadron

SL

Pilot

British

253 Squadron

Girdwood joined the RAFVR about August 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot, and did his pre-war flying at 12 E&RFTS at Prestwick.

Born on September 6 1908, Gleave was educated at Westminster High School and Liverpool Collegiate School. He joined the Sefton Tanning Company in 1924.

Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his flying training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 16 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 11 1940. He joined 257 Squadron when it was reformed at Hendon on May 17. Girdwood and Sergeants R V Forward and R H B Fraser were the first pilots to arrive there. The squadron went through a working-up period and became operational on July 1, flying from Northolt. On August 5 Girdwood was flying a Magister from Martlesham Heath back to Northolt, when he became lost in haze. He made a forced-landing at Ramsey, Essex. He and his passenger, an Engineering Officer, were unhurt, though the aircraft was damaged. On August 13 Girdwood shared in a Ju 88 destroyed and on the 18th he shared in the destruction of a He 111. On this day he was shot down by a Bf 110 in combat over the Thames Estuary and baled out, wounded in the foot, and was admitted to Foulness Hospital, which appears to have been a temporary military hospital.. His Hurricane, P 3708, crashed at Nazewick Farm, Foulness. Girdwood rejoined 257 on September 16. He was killed on October 29 1940, when he was caught in a low-level bombing attack, as he was taking off from North Weald. His Hurricane, V 6852, crashed and burned out. He could not be rescued from the aircraft because of exploding ammunition and he burned to death in the cockpit. He is buried in Hawkhead Cemetery, Paisley, Renfrewshire.

A founder-member of the Liverpool and Merseyside Flying Club at Hooton, Gleave made his first flight in 1927. He began instruction in early 1929, gaining his ‘A’ License on July 6. Later that year Gleave went to Canada, worked for a tanning company in Acton, Ontario and flew at the Toronto Flying Club. He returned to the UK in 1930 and joined the RAF in September on a short service commission. Gleave was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on September 27 and with training completed, he joined No 1 Squadron at Tangmere on September 8 1931. In an attempt to be the first man to fly to Ceylon, Gleave left Lympne on October 11 1933 in a Spartan, G-AAMH. Four days later he was forced down in a down-draught in the mountains E of Kutahya, in Anatolia, Turkey. He made a forced-landing in a tree, on the side of a ravine, not far from Sarbona Pinar and had to abandon his attempt. From February 1934 Gleave was at CFS, Upavon, on an instructors’ course. He was posted to the staff of 5 FTS, Sealand on May 13 and went on loan to the Oxford University Air Squadron for a period soon afterwards. He was granted a Permanent Commission on June 1 1936. On December 17 1936 Gleave was appointed as Flying Instructor to 502 (Ulster) Special Reserve Squadron at Aldergrove. He converted the squadron to Auxiliary Air Force status and was reposted as Adjutant and Chief Flying Instructor. On January 1 1939 Gleave joined Air Staff, Bomber Command and carried out liaison duties at HQ Fighter Command Operations Room at Stanmore. On September 3 he was posted for full-time service there as Bomber Liaison Officer. On June 2 1940 Gleave was posted to 253 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey and he took command on the 9th. He was posted away on August 9 and relinquished his command on the 10th but he was allowed to stay with the squadron until called upon by the AOC 14 Group. On August 30 Gleave claimed five Bf 109s destroyed but was credited with one destroyed and four probables. The following morning Squadron Leader H M Starr, CO of 253, was shot down and killed. Command of 253 reverted to Gleave once more but he himself was shot down at about 1.00 pm, during a massive attack on Biggin Hill by a German bomber force. He baled out, grievously burned, and was admitted to Orpington Hospital. Gleave later went to Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, where he underwent plastic surgery by Archie (later Sir Archibald) McIndoe and his brilliant colleague, Percy Jayes. On July 20 1941 the Guinea Pig Club was formed at Queen Victoria Hospital, with McIndoe as President and Gleave as Vice-President and a Founder Member. In August 1941 he was given a temporary non-operational flying category and on the 19th he began flying again, with a grafted face and limbs, less than twelve months after being burned. He became operational again in October. Gleave took command of RAF Manston on October 5 1941 and was there when the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau made their Channel Dash on February 12 1942. Aircraft took off from Manston to attack the battleships. After the action, Gleave recommended Lt-Cdr Eugene Esmonde for a posthumous VC and other awards for the five survivors of the Swordfish attack. All were granted. Gleave went to RAF Staff College on April 13 1942 and returned to Manston July 10, in time for the Dieppe operation, for which Manston was a main refuelling and re-arming base. On September 9 1942 Gleave was promoted to Group Captain and posted to the Special Planning Staff at Norfolk House, St James’ Square, London. He was made Group Captain Air Plans for the Allied Expeditionary Air Force under Leigh-Mallory in November 1943. With Colonel Phillips Melville of the USAAF as co-operator, Gleave wrote the Overall Overlord Air Plan. For his outstanding work, he was made a CBE and awarded the US Legion of Merit, later changed to the Bronze Star because of protocol difficulties. In the wake of the invasion, Gleave moved across to France. On October 1 1944 he was made Head of Air Plans under Eisenhower at Supreme HQ Allied Expeditionary Force. He returned to East Grinstead in mid-July 1945 for further plastic surgery and in September became SASO to the RAF Delegation to France. Gleave returned to the UK in early November 1947 and went to Reserve Command, later Home Command, where he held various staff appointments. In February 1952 he joined the directing staff at RAF College, Bracknell. After further plastic surgery, Gleave was invalided out of the RAF on November 14 1953. He joined the Historical Section in the Cabinet Office, as a member of the Mediterranean and Middle East team, engaged on official histories of the 1939-1945 war. On March 31 1974 Gleave ceased to be a full-time Official Historian and became a consultant to the Cabinet Office. He continued as Vice-President of the Guinea Pig Club, with the title of Chief Guinea Pig. In addition to his other awards, Gleave received two Mentions in Despatches, the Légion d’Honneur (Fr), the C de G (Fr), was made an honorary pilot of L’Armée de l’Air and the Polish Air Force and was also honoured by the Government of Belgium. Post-war research has shown that all five Bf 109s that were claimed by Gleave on August

ERNEST DEREK GLASER 82178

PO

Pilot

British

65 Squadron

Born on April 20 1921, the son of a former RFC pilot, he was educated at Lancing House and Bloxham Schools. Glaser joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748626). He was called up on September 1 and after completing his flying training, he was commissioned and posted direct to 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on July 13 1940. Glaser was attached to the Hornchurch Sector Training Flight next day for further training and conversion to Spitfires, after which he rejoined 65 on August 8, made his first flight with the squadron on the 9th and flew his first operational sortie on the 15th. Glaser shared in the probable destruction of two He 111s on the 18th and probably destroyed a Bf 109 on August 22 1940. In early 1941 he was posted to 53 OTU at Heston, as an instructor. In August he joined 234 Squadron at Warmwell and took part in offensive sweeps over France. On one occasion Glaser was shot down by a Royal Navy warship, off Plymouth, and baled out into the Channel. After initial difficulty, freeing himself from his parachute, he was picked up. He shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 on June 21 1942 and shared a Ju 88 on July 25. At the end of his tour, he was awarded the DFC (25.8.42), as an Acting Flight Lieutenant, with 234 Squadron. In 1943 Glaser was posted to Australia, to form and command 549 Squadron, flying Spitfires in defence of Darwin. It was formed at Strathpine on December 15 1943, as a sister unit to 548 Squadron, formed at Lawton in Queensland on the same day. Both squadrons did not receive their Spitfires until April 1944 and it was not until mid-June that they both moved to Darwin to take up defence duties. Glaser took command of 548 Squadron at Darwin Civil Airport in February 1945 and held the post until the two squadrons were both disbanded on October 9 1945, when he returned to the UK. He was granted a Permanent Commission and he joined 64 Squadron at Linton-onOuse in 1946, as a Flight Commander. In 1949 Glaser went on No 8 Course at the Empire Test Pilots’ School at Farnborough and afterwards he served at the Royal Aircraft Establishment there. He retired from the RAF on June 26 1953, as a Flight Lieutenant retaining the rank of Squadron Leader, and joined Vickers Armstrong at Hurn, eventually becoming Chief Production Test Pilot. He received the Queen’s Commendation in 1953 for military flying and in 1968 for civilian test flying. Glaser died in July 2001. PO 13.7.40 FO 11.7.41

FL 11.7.42

FL 1.9.45

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ALEXANDER JOSEPH GLEGG

30 1940 were doubtlessly destroyed and that on the 31st he also destroyed a Ju 88, which crashed at Provins in France, and another ‘possible’ Ju 88 crashed at Chateaudun. For many years Gleave was Historian of the Battle of Britain Fighter Association, continuing until the time of his death in 1993. He made a major contribution to the research into who was entitled to the Battle of Britain Clasp.

84021

PO

Air Gunner

GEOFFREY GLEDHILL Sgt

Pilot

British

238 Squadron

Glegg and other Air Gunners were posted away and he was with 23 Squadron at Collyweston by June 1940. He flew his last sortie with it in June 23. Commissioned in early July, Glegg later went to 600 Squadron at Manston and flew his first sortie on September 15. He retrained as a radar operator and teamed up with Flying Officer A D McN Boyd in November, forming another of those long, successful night-fighting partnerships. On May 16 1941 they destroyed a Ju 88, on October 10 a He 111and on December 2 another He 111. Both were awarded the DFC (9.1.42). On January 25 1942 they shot down a He 111 and on March 7 a He 115 within sight of the airfield at Predannack. Tour-expired, Boyd and Glegg were rested. When Boyd was given command of 219 Squadron at Scorton in March 1943, he again had Glegg with him. The squadron went to North Africa in early June and became operational at Algiers on the 30th. On that day Boyd and Glegg shot down two Ju 88s. On August 25 they destroyed another, on September 6 a He 111 and on the 18th another. The squadron returned to the UK in February 1944 and eventually both men were posted away to other places. Glegg was given a Bar to the DFC (7.4.44). He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1992.

Gledhill joined the RAFVR in January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand, which ran from February 1 to June 26 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 6. After converting to Hurricanes, Gledhill joined 238 Squadron at Middle Wallop on August 4. He was killed on the 11th, shot down in combat two miles E of Weymouth, in Hurricane P 2978. Gledhill was 19. His body was washed up on the French coast and he is buried in Criquebeuf-en-Caux churchyard.

IAN RICHARD GLEED 37800

FL

Pilot

British

600 Squadron

Born in London in 1908, Glegg joined 601 Squadron, AAF in 1935, as an Aircrafthand (801221). Called up on August 24 1939, Glegg remustered, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and began training with the squadron. He went to Jurby early in 1940 for training but on rejoining 601, he found that its Blenheims had been replaced by Hurricanes.

PO 12.9.30 FO 12.4.32 FL 1.4.36 SL 1.12.38 WC 1.3.41 GC 1.1.44 GC 1.7.47

742857

British

87 Squadron A doctor’s son, Gleed was born in Finchley on July 3 1916. Educated at Tenterden Preparatory School and Epsom College, he learned to fly privately and flew his first solo at the London Aeroplane Club, Hatfield on November 16 1935.

PO 3.7.40 FO 9.5.41 FL 9.5.42

JOHN NIXON GLENDINNING 740032

Gleed joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio training at 2 E&RFTS, Filton on March 9 1936. On May 16 he went to 8 FTS, Montrose and with training completed, he joined 46 Squadron at Digby on December 25 1936. Gleed went to 266 Squadron on November 7 1939, which had been recently reformed at Sutton Bridge. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander and promoted to Acting

Sgt

Pilot

British

54 and 74 Squadrons

Glendinning was born at Benfieldside, Co Durham on July 7 1912. He joined the RAFVR on January 25 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot, and obtained his ‘A’ license on March 18 1938. He was called up on September 1 1939 and sent to 5 FTS, Sealand on October 7, for assessment of his flying capabilities. On December 17 Glendinning went to 9 B&GS, as a staff pilot. He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 3 1940 and, after converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on September 16 1940. He went to 74 Squadron at Biggin Hill on October 21. He destroyed two Ju 87s and damaged a Bf 109 on November 14, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 15th, another on December 2 and another on March 1 1941. Whilst patrolling Dungeness on March 12 1941, Glendinning was shot down and killed by Major Werner Mölders of JG 51. His Spitfire, P 7506, crashed at Ivychurch, Kent. Gledinning was 28. He was cremated at West Road Crematorium, Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

Flight Lieutenant. He was testing a Spitfire on February 18 1940, when it broke up in the air. He was thrown out and lost consciousness. He came to, pulled his ripcord and the parachute opened. He came off flying and did not return to 266 until April 21 and was then only allowed to fly dual. He regained his full flying category on May 14 1940 and was posted on the same day to 87 Squadron in France, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. On May 13 Gleed destroyed a Bf 109, on the 18th he destroyed a Bf 110 and probably another, on the 19th destroyed two Do 17s, shared a He 111 and damaged two Bf 109s and on the 20th he shared a Ju 88. The squadron was withdrawn to Debden on the 24, to reequip. Operational again on June 21, 87 Squadron moved to Exeter on July 5. On August 15 Gleed claimed two Bf 110s destroyed and a probable Bf 109 and on the 25th a Bf 110 destroyed and a Bf 110 and a Bf 109 damaged. He was awarded the DFC (13.9.40). On September 30 he destroyed a Bf 110, probably destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged a Do 17. Gleed took command of 87 Squadron on December 24 1940. In an attack on Caen airfield during the night of March 14/15 1941, he shared in destroying a Do 17 on the ground and damaged another Do 17 and a Ju 88. He claimed a Do 17 destroyed on May 7, shared a Do 18 on the 24th, shared a probable Ju 88 on the 28th and damaged two Bf 109s on the ground on August 6. He was appointed Wing Leader at Middle Wallop on November 18. Gleed claimed a Ju 88 probably destroyed on March 13 1942, a Ju 88 destroyed on the 23rd, a Bf 109 destroyed and probably another on April 17 and a probable FW 190 on May 5. He was awarded the DSO (22.5.42) and posted to HQ Fighter Command on July 16, as Wing Commander Tactics, becoming Wing Commander Operations on December 7 1942. Posted to the Middle East on January 1 1943, Gleed was attached to 145 Squadron in North Africa from the 13th to gain experience of desert operations before becoming Wing Leader of 244 Wing, which he did on January 31. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on March 17. On an afternoon patrol over the Cap Bon area on April 16 1943, Gleed was shot down, probably by Leutnant Reinert of JG 77. After being hit, Gleed headed for the Tunisian coast. His Spitfire, AB 502, was found on dunes near the sea on the western coastline of Cap Bon. His body was not found there but it is known that he was buried at Tazoghrane. He was reburied in the Military Cemetery at Enfidaville on April 25 1944. In addition to his British awards, Gleed was awarded the C de G (Belg) (9.4.43) and the C de G (Fr) (5.6.46). Gleed is remembered on a memorial plaque at Golders Green Crematorium.

NORMAN VIPAN GLEW 107955

Sgt

Pilot

British

72 Squadron

Glew was born in Derby in November 1916. He joined the RAFVR in November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742507) and did his weekend flying at Burnaston aerodrome. Called to full-time service on September 1 1939, Glew was posted to No 1 ITW, Cambridge, after which he went to 3 FTS, South Cerney for No 32 Course, which ran from January 31 to June 15 1940. With training completed, he joined 72 Squadron at Acklington on June 19 1940. The squadron moved south to Biggin Hill on August 31. On September 7 Glew may have damaged two Do 17s, on the 23rd he claimed a share in the destruction of a Bf 109, on the 24th he probably destroyed a Ju 88 and on the 27th he destroyed two Do 17s. Glew moved to 616 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on November 8 1940, remaining with the squadron only until November 27, when he joined 41 Squadron at Hornchurch. In May 1941, Glew was posted overseas. On the 17th he embarked on the aircraft carrier HMS Victorious at Scapa Flow. He flew off near Majorca on June 14 for Malta, refuelled there and then went on to Egypt, reaching Mersa Matruh on the 16th. Glew joined 260 Squadron at Haifa. He was commissioned in August 1941. The squadron moved to the Western Desert on

APO 4.5.36 PO 9.3.37 FO 9.10.38 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

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injection some time later. A photograph apparently shows him sitting on a wing of his crashed Hurricane.

October 23 1941. Glew destroyed a Ju 87 on January 3 1942 and his Hurricane was damaged by Bf 109s on March 26, when he was flying from Martuba to Tobruk. He damaged a Bf 109 on April 2. In 1943 Glew was with 229 Squadron in Malta, moving with it to Catania in January 1944. He took command of 1435 Squadron at Brindisi in March, as an Acting Squadron Leader. On May 17 1944, flying in a Hurricane in a mock dog fight with a Spitfire over Brindisi, Glew’s aircraft crashed and he was killed. He was 27 and he is buried in Bari War Cemetery.

PO 27.1.40

RICHARD LINDSAY GLYDE 39983

FO

Pilot

Australian

Glyde was born in Perth, Australia on January 29 1914. He worked for Perpetual Traders, joined the RAAF in 1935 and did most of his flying training at Point Cook. He was found to have a medical defect, which prevented his completion of the course and Glyde left the service.

PO 22.8.41 FO 22.8.42 FL 22.8.43

ANTONI GLOWACKI P 1527

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

501 Squadron

Glowacki was born in Warsaw on February 10 1910. He joined the Warsaw Aero Club in 1926 and became a cadet in the PAF. Between 1931 and 1939 Glowacki flew about 5,000 hours as a pilot.

After remedial treatment, Glyde went to England, at his own expense, and was successful in obtaining an RAF short service commission. He began his ab initio course on May 24 1937, as a pupil pilot. On completion of the course, Glyde was sent to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on August 9, for a short induction course, after which he was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney on the 21st, for intermediate and advanced training. Glyde completed his training and joined No 1 AACU at Farnborough on March 26 1938, as a staff pilot. On October 24 1938 he was posted to 87 Squadron at Debden and went to France with it at the outbreak of war. On November 14 1939 Glyde and 87’s CO, Squadron Leader W E Coope, in two Hurricanes, made a forced-landing in Belgium and were interned. They escaped on the 24th and, with the help of the British Consulate, made their way back to France in civilian clothes and rejoined 87 on the 27th. On May 19 1940 Glyde destroyed a Bf 109, damaged another and shared in the destruction of a Hs 126. He was awarded the DFC (4.6.40), being then credited with four enemy aircraft destroyed. Glyde destroyed a Bf 110 and probably another another on July 11 S of Portland and returned to Exeter, damaged by return fire. On August 13 Glyde shared a Ju 88 and a He 111. His Hurricane, P 3387, was hit by return fire from a He 111 engaged S of Selsey Bill. He crashed into the sea and was reported ‘Missing’. Glyde is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 5 and on a window at Christ Church, Claremont, Perth, Western Australia.

He came to England in early 1940 and joined the RAFVR on January 29. Glowacki was probably with the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, when he was posted to No 1 School of Army Cooperation at Old Sarum on July 5 1940, for No 1 Polish Pilots’ Course, for testing and grading. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 14 and was promoted from Corporal to Sergeant. After converting to Hurricanes, Glowacki joined 501 Squadron at Gravesend on August 6 1940. On that day he transferred to the PAF. Glowacki claimed a Ju 87 destroyed and a Do 17 damaged on August 15, three Bf 109s and two Ju 88s destroyed on the 24th, a Bf 109 destroyed on the 28th, damaged a Bf 110 on the 29th, damaged a He 111 on the 30th and destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another Bf 110 on the 31st. On this day he was himself shot down. His Hurricane, V 6540, crashed and burned out on the aerodrome at Gravesend. Glowacki was slightly injured and did not rejoin 501 until September 10. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on September 18. He made his last flight with 501 on September 24 and from the 30th he was listed as non-effective sick. Glowacki was posted away on October 2 1940. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (23.12.40). In February 1941 Glowacki was posted to 55 OTU, Usworth, as an instructor. In October he returned to operations, joining 611 Squadron at Hornchurch, and was awarded the DFM (30.10.41). Commissioned in November, he moved to 303 Squadron at Northolt. On April 27 1942 he claimed a probable FW 190 and on August 19, over Dieppe, Glowacki claimed a FW 190 destroyed and shared a He 111. He was awarded the KW and Bar (20.8.42) and the DFC (15.11.42). Glowacki joined 308 Squadron at Northolt on February 7 1943 and remained with it until February 22 1944. After a trip to the USA, he went to 61 OTU, as a Flight Commander. He took command of 309 Squadron at Acklington on September 9 1944. He was awarded two more Bars to the KW (25.9.44). Glowacki was with 307 Squadron at Horsham St Faith from October 5 until November 29 1945, when he went to HQ 13 Group as a liaison officer. He remained in the RAF after the war. Glowacki transferred to the RNZAF in 1954, taking his family to New Zealand. In 1960 he joined the Department of Civil Aviation in Wellington and was responsible for light aircraft in the region until his retirement in 1975. Glowacki died on April 27 1980.

APO 9.8.37 PO 24.5.38 FO 24.11.39

FELIKS GMUR 780678

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

He went to 15 EFTS, Redhill from July 4 to 18, for testing and grading. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 18 and was promoted to Sergeant. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 151 Squadron at Stapleford on August 17. Whilst at 6 OTU, Gmur transferred to the Polish Air Force on August 6. He made his first flight with 151 on the 21st and was shot down and killed in combat over the Thames Estuary on August 30 1940. His Hurricane, R 4213, crashed at Jacks Hatch,

WITOLD JOZEF GLOWACKI PO

Pilot

Polish

51 Squadron

Gmur arrived in England in early 1940. He went to RAF Eastchurch, was enlisted in the RAFVR, and remained there until June 1 1940, when he was posted to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool.

FL 16.1,45

76739

87 Squadron

Epping Green. Gmur was 25. He is buried in Epping Cemetery, Essex.

145, 253 and 605 Squadrons

Glowacki arrived in England in early January 1940 and was commissioned in the RAFVR on the 27th at RAF Eastchurch. He moved to the Polish Wing of 3 S of TT, Blackpool on June 1 1940.

WLADYSLAW GNYS P 1298

PO

Pilot

Polish

302 Squadron

Born in Sary, Kielce, Poland on August 24 1910, Gnys joined the PAF in 1931. He began flying training in 1933 and then went on to a fighter pilots’ course. After squadron service, he was posted to Deblin in 1935, as an instructor.

He was on No 3 Polish Pilots’ Course at No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum, for testing and grading. The course ran from July 22 to 29. Glowacki went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 29th and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 145 Squadron at Westhampnett on August 12. He was attached to 253 Squadron at Turnhouse from August 16 to 20, when he rejoined 145. He moved to 605 Squadron at Drem on August 31. Glowacki claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on September 11, he destroyed a Bf 110 on the 23rd and, with Flight Lieutenant I J Muirhead of 605, he chased a Do 17 to the French coast on September 24 1940. They shared in the destruction of the Do 17 but were then jumped by three Bf 109s and Glowacki was shot down and killed. Muirhead escaped. Glowacki was 26 and is buried in the Guines Communal Cemetery, France. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (1.2.41). One source suggests that Glowacki survived the crash but died of an anti-tetanus

In 1938 Gnys went to Officers’ School at Deblin and in early 1939 joined 121 Fighter Eskadra. Early on September 1 1939 Gnys destroyed two Do 17s returning from a raid on Cracow, originally thought to be the first German aircraft shot down in the war. (See A L Markiewicz). When Poland collapsed, Gnys crossed into Romania. He boarded a ship sailing for Marseilles, via Malta. In France, he joined l’Armée de l’Air and in February 1940 he was with Groupe de Chasse 3/1. He shared in destroying a German bomber in May. In June the Poles were ordered to England by General Sikorski. Gnys went in a British ship to Algiers, then by train to Casablanca, then took a ship for Liverpool, arriving there

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

STEPHEN FREDERICK GODDEN

on July 14 1940. He was sent to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT at Blackpool, to await a posting. He joined the recently-formed 302 Squadron at Leconfield on July 28. Gnys was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 2, for training on Hurricanes, after which he rejoined 302 on September 26. Awarded the KW (1.2.41). Gnys was rested from operations on January 30 1942, going to 302’s Operations Room at Harrowbeer, moving in August to 303 Squadron’s Operations Room at Kirton-in-Lindsey. On December 22 1942 he resumed flying with 302 and was posted to 316 Squadron at Hutton Cranswick on February 10 1943, as a Flight Commander. In August he moved to 309 Squadron and at the end of his tour, he was awarded a Bar to the KW (20.10.43) and posted to 18 Fighter Wing, HQ 84 Group. In early August 1944 Gnys was given command of 317 Squadron at Plumetot, France. On the 7th he was shot down and wounded. He made a crash-landing and was captured. He was in a German hospital, when it was captured by the French Resistance. Gnys was flown back to hospital at Swindon. He did not return to operations and after a period at HQ PAF, Blackpool, he was posted to HQ Fighter Command on September 17 1945, as a liaison officer. Gnys was awarded the VM (5th Class) (1.6.45) and two more Bars to the KW (31.10.47). He left the PAF in 1947 and went to Canada to live on March 15 1948. In 1981 his book, First Kill, was published in London. Gnys died in Canada in 2000.

05222

SL

Pilot

British

3 Squadron

Born on December 26 1910, Godden was commissioned in Class ‘AA’ of the RAFO in March 1931 and was a member of the Cambridge University Air Squadron in 1932. He relinquished his RAFO Commission and joined the RAF in October 1932, with a Permanent Commission, as a University Entrant. He was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham and after training he joined 19 Squadron at Duxford on August 26 1933. Godden went on to the staff at 2 FTS, Digby on December 16 1935 and in late 1938 he was posted to the staff of the Inspector General RAF. In June 1940 Godden was with HQ Air Component BAFF and was posted from there to 3 Squadron at Wick on June 11, as a supernumerary. He took command of the squadron on the 16th. Godden was posted to HQ 9 Group on September 6 1940 but remained attached to 3 Squadron until its new CO, Squadron Leader G F Chater, arrived on September 23. He was to be on the Air Staff at HQ 9 Group but instead of going to HQ at Preston, Godden was detached to RAF Eastchurch, as an Acting Wing Commander. He was attached to RAF Wittering on September 28, then attached to HQ 12 Group on October 28. This attachment ceased on November 11 1940 and Godden finally got to HQ 9 Group. A graduate of the Military Staff College and a Qualified Instructor, CFS, Godden retired from the RAF on September 2 1957, as a Wing Commander. He died in August 1966.

PO 1.3.41 FO 1.3.4 FL 1.3.43

PO (RAFO) 16.3.31 WC 1.10.46

HENRY GORDON GODDARD

CLAUDE WALLER GOLDSMITH

70252

72152

FO

Pilot

British

219 Squadron

Goddard went to Harrow School and Wadham College, Oxford, where he read Latin, French and Law. From 1927 to 1929 he was a member of the University Air Squadron.

FO (RAFO) 4.1.34

FO (RAFVR) 1.1.38

FL 16.12.40

FL

Pilot

British

South African

FL 10.4.36

SL 1.12.38

WC 1.3.41

54 and 603 Squadrons

Called to full-time service on October 10 1939, Goldsmith went to 6 FTS, Little Rissington for No 15 Course, which ran from October 11 1939 to April 27 1940. He was with the Advanced Training Squadron of 6 FTS when it arrived at 10 B&GS, Warmwell on April 24, for the final part of the course. With his training completed, Goldsmith was posted to No 1 School of Army Cooperation at Old Sarum, for a course. With this completed, Goldsmith joined 4 (AC) Squadron at Linton-on-Ouse on July 11 1940, flying Lysanders. He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 22, converted to Spitfires and joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on September 3 1940. He moved to 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 28. Goldsmith was shot down by Bf 109s S of Maidstone on October 27 1940. His Spitfire, P 7439, crashed near Waltham. He died of his injuries and shock next day. Goldsmith was 23. He is buried in Hornchurch Cemetery, Essex. PO (RAFVR) 29.3.38 PO 10.10.39 FO 9.12.39

JOHN ERNEST GOLDSMITH 901859

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

236 Squadron

Born at Sudbourne, Suffolk on November 14 1921, Goldsmith joined the RAFVR in September 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner.

SL 1.3.42

WILLIAM BERNARD GODDARD 36126

Pilot

FO 10.4.33

Goldsmith, from Dersley, Transvaal, was born in 1917 and educated in England, at Cheltenham College and Imperial College, London, where he studied Mining at the School of Mines. He was a member of the University of London Air Squadron in 1936 and commissioned in the RAFVR in March 1938.

On July 4 1932 Goddard was granted a commission in Class ‘AA’ of the RAFO. He was commissioned in the RAFVR on January 1 1938, relinquishing his one in the RAFO. Goddard was an architect when he was called up on September 8 1939. He went to 5 FTS, Sealand on No 41 Course, which ran from October 9 to December 9 1939. He joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on December 16. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on May 17 1940 and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant. On the afternoon of August 15, Goddard destroyed a Do 17 off Flamborough Head. He relinquished command of ‘B’ Flight on September 13 and assumed command of ‘A’ Flight. He destroyed a Ju 88 during the night of November 8/9 and on December 27 1940 Goddard was posted away from 219 to join 93 Squadron at Middle Wallop. He was awarded the DFC (18.2.41). Goddard was awarded the AFC (11.6.42) and commanded 153 Squadron at Portreath for a short time in December 1942. Posted overseas, he was given command of 176 Squadron at Baigachi, India in June 1943 and posted away in March 1944, to lead 170 Wing in the Imphal Valley. On May 1 Goddard was promoted to Acting Group Captain and took command of HQ 906 Wing. He was awarded the DSO (14.11.44). Released in 1945, as a Wing Commander, Goddard died in 1972. PO (RAFO) 4.7.32 WC 1.3.45

FO

PO 10.10.32

In early January 1940 Goldsmith was posted to 5 AGS, Jurby. In seven weeks of gunnery training there, he made fourteen flights and had logged 8 hrs 45 mins before he joined 236 Squadron in late March. The squadron was then in Coastal Command but in early July it was seconded to Fighter Command. Goldsmith flew his first operational sortie on July 6. On a patrol on September 23, Goldsmith, flying with Pilot Officer G H Russell, shot down a He 111. Two days later, on a sortie to Brest and again flying with Russell, Goldsmith shot down a Do 18 over St George’s Channel. On October 30 1940 Goldsmith made his last flight with 236. In early March 1941 he was at 54 OTU, Church Fenton, converting to Defiants. He teamed up with Sergeant Angell and they were posted to 96 Squadron at Cranage in early April. On April 27 1941 they were on a night cross-country flight to Digby. The Defiant, T 3389, crashed four miles S of Wellingore and both men were killed. The cause was believed to be pilot disorientation. Goldsmith was a Flight Sergeant at the time of his death. He is buried in All Saints’ churchyard, Sudbourne.

235 Squadron

Goddard was born in Portsmouth in 1914. He joined the RAF on August 27 1929, as an Aircraft Apprentice (563458), and passed out on August 19 1932. He later applied for pilot-training and was selected. On completion of his training, he was granted a Permanent Commission on February 24 1938, and posted to the Aeroplane and Armament Experimental Establishment at Martlesham Heath. On June 2 1940 Goddard joined 235 Squadron at Detling. On November 18, whilst on an escort operation, he engaged two He 115s. He was severely wounded in one foot by return fire, eventually losing three toes. He pressed home his attack and, although suffering from loss of blood, he got his aircraft and crew safely back. He was awarded the DFC (6.12.40). He was killed on June 15 1941, aged 27. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 29. PO 24.2.38 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40

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HENRI ALPHONSE CLEMENT GONAY 81635

PO

Pilot

Belgian

Gooderham was shot down in combat with Bf 109s over the Thames Estuary on October 15 and baled out, slightly wounded. His Hurricane, V 6789, crashed at Gravesend. He was killed on November 2 1941, when he was shot down by flak off Ostend, during a reconnaissance of shipping. He was then a Flight Sergeant with 615 Squadron. Gooderham is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 36.

235 Squadron

Gonay was born on July 21 1913 at Theux and joined the Aviation Militaire Belge in November 1931. He began his flying training in May 1932. He was promoted to corporal on May 24 1933 and posted to the 2nd Regiment de Chasse at Schaffen (Diest), equipped with the Fairey Firefly. An exceptional pilot, he was transferred as an instructor to the Flying School at Wevelghem in November 1938.

GEOFFREY GOODMAN 45491

Sgt

Pilot British

85 Squadron

Goodman was born in Taunton on June 21 1916. He joined the RAF, as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot (580286) and began his ab initio flying on August 24 1936.

Gonay was transferred as Adjutant to the 3rd Escadrille at Deurne (Antwerp) when the Germans invaded Belgium. His unit left the country three days later and went to Tours, France and later to Bordeaux. After the capitulation of France Gonay and his colleagues Phillipart, Dieu and Buchin deserted and boarded the Dutch ship Queen Emma at Bayonne. It sailed for England and they arrived at Plymouth on June 23 1940. He was commissioned in the RAFVR on July 12 and went to 5 OTU, Aston Down, to convert to Blenheims. Gonay joined 235 Squadron on August 5 1940. He shared in destroying a He 59 off Cherbourg on October 8. He flew his last sortie with the squadron on October 13 and he was posted away on the 23rd to RAF Odiham, possibly to instruct at No 1 Fighter Training Squadron of the Free French Air Force. On June 23 1941 Gonay was posted to 58 OTU, probably for a refresher course and to convert to single-seat fighters. He joined the Belgian Flight of 131 Squadron at Atcham on September 28, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. He was awarded the C de G (Belg) (21.7.41). On October 14 131’s CO, Squadron Leader J M Thompson and twelve Belgian pilots, Gonay amongst them, left to form the first Belgian fighter squadron at Valley, 350 Squadron. He went to 232 Squadron at Atcham on April 17 1942. He was awarded the C de G (Fr) for the Dieppe operation on August 19. He was posted to command 129 Squadron on August 31 and led it until September 1943. Gonay took command of 263 Squadron at Beaulieu on February 25 1944. He was hit by flak and shot down while attacking two ships off Jersey on June 14 1944, his aircraft crashing into outbuildings at a house in the parish of St Ouen, which burned down as a result of the incident. Three people inside escaped. Gonay was buried in the St Helier War Cemetery. His remains were exhumed and reburied in the Brussels-Evere Military Cemetery after the war. Gonay’s award of the DFC was gazetted in July, after his death, the citation stating that he had completed 138 operational sorties. On June 14 2014 a road close to the crash site was named Rue Henri Gonay, following a campaign by local resident Bernie Morel. At the naming ceremony Gonay’s wedding ring was worn by his grandson. It had been discovered at the scene of the crash in 1944, hidden from the Germans and, eventually, returned to the family.

On successfully completing this, he was formally enlisted in the RAF in October 1936. With his intermediate and advanced training done, he joined 85 Squadron, when it reformed at Debden on June 1 1938. The squadron went to France at the outbreak of war. Injured in a flying accident on April 18 1940, Goodman was sent back to England and hospital. He rejoined 85 Squadron, then at Debden on July 19 1940, from No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, after a Medical Board. On August 30 Goodman claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and another probably destroyed, on the 31st he damaged a Do 17 and on September 1 he destroyed a Bf 109. In the evening of October 28 he damaged an unidentified enemy aircraft 6 miles S of Binbrook. Goodman was commissioned in March 1941 and he remained with 85 Squadron until April 19 1942, when he was posted to 51 OTU, Cranfield, to instruct. He returned to operations, when he was posted to 29 Squadron at West Malling in November 1942, later becoming a Flight Commander. He damaged a Do 217 by day on December 16 and destroyed another on the night of March 7/8 1943, near Linchmere. During the night of August 23/24 1943 Goodman, flying in a Mosquito with Flying Officer W F E Thomas as his radar operator, destroyed a Me 410 near Chelmondeston, Suffolk. At the end of his tour Goodman was awarded the DFC (26.10.43). He stayed in the RAF after the war and moved later to the Engineer Branch, as an Armament Specialist. Goodman was made an MBE (1.1.46) and an OBE (13.6.59). He retired on June 1 1969, as a Wing Commander, and died in 1976. PO 12.3.41 FO 12.3.42 FL 12.3.43 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.7.56

GEORGE ERNEST GOODMAN 42598

PO

Pilot British

1 Squadron Goodman was born in Haifa, Palestine on October 8 1920, the son of a British official of Palestine Railways. He was a boarder at Highgate School, London. Goodman was a member of the OTC there.

PO 12.7.40 FO 12.7.4

HAROLD INGHAM GOODALL 79159

PO

Pilot

British

It was thought that he would go to University but when his father left Palestine to go on to Nigeria, Goodman accompanied him to England, to join the RAF on a short service commission. He began his ab initio course at 11 E&RFTS, Perth on July 10 1939, moved to 9 FTS, Hullavington on September 2 and on to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on the 23rd, successfully completing the course there on February 17 1940. Goodman was posted to 11 Group Pool at St Athan on the 27th, went to Sutton Bridge on March 9, when 11 Group Pool was redesignated 6 OTU. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined No 1 Squadron at Vassincourt, France on May 1 1940. S of Rheims on May 14, Goodman shared in the destruction of a He 111, with Flight Lieutenant PP Hanks. On June 17 Goodman was credited with a He 111 (actually a Ju 88). The squadron was withdrawn to Northolt the next day. On July 25 Goodman was attacked by four Bf 109s off Portland and did not fire his guns but one of the 109s spun into the sea after a violent breakaway. He shared in the destruction of a Do 17 off Cherbourg on August 11, destroyed a He 111 on the 16th and shared a Do 17 and destroyed a Bf 110 and shared a Do 17 on the 18th. Whilst shooting the Bf 110 down, Goodman was attacked by a Bf 109, which chased him back to the English coast, filling his Hurricane with cannon shells and bullets. Goodman landed safely but his aircraft was a write-off. During a big raid on London on September 6, Goodman shot down a Bf 110 and was himself shot down in flames by return fire. He baled out, with a sprained shoulder. His Hurricane, P 2686, crashed at Brownings Farm, Chiddingstone Causeway. Goodman flew again two days later. He shared a Ju 88 on October 8, damaged a Do 17 attacking RAF Feltwell on the 27th, which escaped into cloud and regained its base with crew wounded, and on the 30th he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88. He was awarded the DFC (26.11.40). Goodman was with 73 Squadron at Castle Camps by November 9 1940. On the 10th he embarked on HMS Furious with the squadron, bound for the Middle East. He flew Hurricane V 7535 off to Takoradi on November 29, to fly the ferry route north to Heliopolis,

264 Squadron

Goodall joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748024). He did his pre-war training at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 16 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 11 1940. Goodall was commissioned on the 12th. He joined 264 Squadron at Duxford on May 22 1940. Flying with Sergeant R B M Young as his gunner, Goodall shared a Ju 88 on August 24 and claimed a Do 17 destroyed on the 26th. Both men were killed on October 8 1940, when their Defiant, N 1627, crashed at Marlow, possibly as a result of enemy action. Goodall was 25. He is buried In Parkstone Cemetery, Poole, Dorset. PO 12.5.40

ALBERT THOMAS GOODERHAM 742947

Sgt Pilot

British

25, 151 and 46 Squadrons

Gooderham joined the RAFVR in January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his flying training at 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on No 6 Course, which ran from December 29 1939 to June 10 1940. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 10, to convert to Blenheims. He was posted to 25 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on June 24. Gooderham joined 151 Squadron at Stapleford on August 26 and moved to 46 Squadron there on September 15.

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via Lagos, Accra, Kano, Maiduguri, Khartoum, Wadi Halfa and Abu Sueir. At Lagos on December 5 1940 Goodman saw his mother, for what was to be the last time. He missed seeing his father, who was away with an economic mission in the Belgian Congo. When 73 left Lagos, their Hurricanes did a roll over the Goodman home at Ebutte Metta and were gone. During December the pilots of 73 were attached to 274 Squadron in the Western Desert. The squadron became operational again, as a unit, in early January 1941. On February 4 Goodman shot down a CR 42 in flames near Benina aerodrome and on April 9 destroyed a Bf 110 near Tobruk. In this engagement Goodman was himself shot down by Bf 110s and crash-landed behind British lines. On the 14th he shared in the destruction of a Hs 126 and on the 21st destroyed a Ju 87 over Tobruk and shared a second. In late March/early April Goodman had spent a short leave in Haifa with his two sisters and took his friend Flying Officer O E Lamb (qv) with him. On April 14, the day Lamb was killed, Goodman shared a Hs 126. On the 21st he destroyed a Ju 87 over Torbruk and shared a second. Goodman destroyed a Fiat G-50 on April 22 and on May 23 he damaged a Ju 88 over Crete. He was shot down and killed on June 14 1941. Six aircraft, led by Goodman, were making a strafing attack on Gazala airfield. Heavy flak was encountered and three of the Hurricanes were lost in the operation. One of the other aircraft lost was piloted by Sergeant John White DFM (qv), who had flown with 72 Squadron in the Battle of Britain. Goodman is buried in Knightsbridge War Cemetery, Acroma, Libya.

HENRY MacDONALD GOODWIN

APO 2.9.39 PO 28.2.40 FO 28.2.41

PO (AAF) 1.4.33 FO 24.8.39

90269

FO

Pilot

British

609 Squadron

From Hagley, Worcestershire, he was commissioned on April 1 1933 in 605 Squadron, AuxAF. He relinquished this when he was commissioned in Class ‘A’ of the RAFO on June 8 1935. He then relinquished this and returned to 605, and he was commissioned in the AAFRO in May 1938. Called to full-time service on August 24 1939, he completed his training and was then posted to No 1 Flying Practice Unit at Meir on March 14 1940. From there, Goodwin joined 609 Squadron at Northolt on May 21 1940. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and another damaged on August 12 and two Ju 87s destroyed over Lyme Bay on the 13th. He failed to return from a combat on the 14th, in Spitfire, N 3024. Ten days later Goodwin’s body was washed up on the Isle of Wight. He was 25 and is buried in St Cassian’s churchyard, Chaddesley Corbett, Worcestershire. His brother, Pilot Officer B L Goodwin, was killed on active service on June 24 1940, serving as a pilot with 605 Squadron. He was 23 and he is also buried at Chaddesley Corbett. PO (RAFO) 8.5.35

FO (RAF0) 6.7.36

FO (AAFRO) 8.5.38

MAURICE VENNING GOODMAN 135476

Sgt

Air Gunner

British 604

Squadron

ROY DANIEL GOODWIN 120495

Born at Hendon on April 13 1920, Goodman was educated at King’s School, Colindale.

Sgt

Pilot

British

64 Squadron

Goodwin joined the RAFVR about January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742860). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940, to convert to Spitfires.

He worked at GEC on radio and television and in 1939 he joined 604 Squadron AAF at Hendon, as an Aircrafthand (804376). Called up at the outbreak of war, Goodman remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and he was posted to 4 B&GS, West Freugh on December 3 1939 for an air gunnery course. He qualified on January 11 1940 and on the 16th he rejoined 604 Squadron, then at Northolt. After serving with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain, Goodman was posted away on June 13 1941 to 109 Squadron, engaged in special operations and operating from

He joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield on September 16 and flew his first operational sortie on the 20th. Goodwin was posted to 421 Flight at Hawkinge on November 28 1940. Commissioned in April 1942, he was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He was commissioned in the RAFVR in 1947. Goodwin died in 1983.

STANLEY ALBERT GOODWIN 172607

Boscombe Down. On March 26 1942, on a trip to Essen, Goodman severely damaged a Bf 110, when two night fighters attacked his aircraft. He was posted away to 1474 Flight at Gransden Lodge on July 13 1942, still on special operations. Commissioned in October 1942, he went to CGS, Sutton Bridge, for a course, on December 29, after which he joined 192 Squadron at Gransden on February 19 1943. Goodman flew to Blida in North Africa, via Gibraltar, on April 28 with a detachment of 192. He flew on special duty operations to Tunisia, Sardinia, Corsica and Sicily. The detachment flew back to the UK on September 5 1943. With his third tour completed, Goodman became an instructor. He was awarded the DFC (12.11.43), having taken part in many successful operations. On August 6 1944 he went to CGS, Catfoss for a Gunnery Leaders’ course, which ended on September 10. After this Goodman was posted to the Courier Service, which was the war-time equivalent of the King’s Messenger Service. Goodman was released from the RAF on February 2 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on January 8 1988.

Sgt

Pilot

British

266 and 66 Squadrons

Goodwin was born in 1921. He joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748581). Called up on September 1, Goodwin carried out his elementary flying training at 18 EFTS, Fair Oaks. He moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand for No 49 Course, which ran from June 16 to September 7 1940. On August 14, on the course there, Goodwin and Sergeant T W R Healy were flying Masters, when they collided. Healy managed to land and Goodwin baled out safely. Goodwin went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 7, converted to Spitfires and joined 266 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on September 30, moving to 66 Squadron at Gravesend on October 14. He was posted away to 55 OTU, Aston Down on December 10 1940, as an instructor. Commissioned in December 1943, Goodwin was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on March 7 1982. PO 22.12.43 FO 22.6.44 FL 22.12.45

PO 23.10.42 FO 23.4.43 FL 23.10.44

ROBERT LESLIE GOORD 83996

CHARLES GOODWIN 754024

Sgt

Pilot

British

219 Squadron

PO

Pilot

British

151 Squadron

Goord joined the RAFVR in November 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740932). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his intermediate and advanced training at 12 FTS, Grantham on No 10 Course, which ran from May 11 to August 24 1940, when he was commissioned and posted to the No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum.

Goodwin, of Kingston-upon-Hull, joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 3 1940, where he converted to Blenheims. Goodwin joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on August 20 1940. He is first mentioned in 219’s ORB on the 26th, when the squadron formed a Training Flight for pilots who were non-operational. It was disbanded on September 14, when all pilots were operational. He was killed on September 30, when his Blenheim, L 1261, disintegrated and crashed during a routine night patrol. His crew, Sergeant G E Shepperd, gunner, and AC 2 J P McCaul, radar operator, were both killed. Goodwin was 21. He is buried in Hull Northern Cemetery.

On September 5 Goord went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, converted to Hurricanes and joined 151 Squadron on the 24th. He flew six operational sorties during October 1940 and was posted away to 73 Squadron at Castle Camps on November 7. Two days later he went with the squadron, when it moved to Birkenhead, to embark for overseas. On the 10th he embarked on HMS Furious with the squadron, bound for the Middle East. He possibly was one of the pilots, who flew Hurricanes off to Takoradi on November 29, to fly the ferry route north to Heliopolis, via Lagos, Accra, Kano, Maiduguri, Khartoum,

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Gore was leading a section on a dawn patrol possibly on the 15th, which intercepted three He 111s, which were shot down. Hit by return fire, Gore’s aircraft caught fire and he baled out, wounded. He was awarded the DFC (31.5.40). Recovered from his wounds, Gore rejoined 607 from RAF Hospital, Torquay on June 22 1940. He damaged a He 111 on August 15. On September 28 Gore was shot down by Bf 109s, in an action E of Selsey. He was reported ‘Missing’ and is believed to have crashed into the sea, in Hurricane P 3108. His body was never found. Gore was 25. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 5.

Wadi Halfa and Abu Sueir. Goord died on May 24 1941, circumstances unknown, but he was apparently still with 73 Squadron, then in the Western Desert. He is remembered on the Alamein Memorial, Column 241. PO 24.8.40

JOHN ARTHUR GERALD GORDON 36075

SL

Pilot

Canadian

151 Squadron

Gordon, of Red Deer, Alberta, joined the RCAF in June 1934. He transferred to the RAF, with a Permanent Commission, in July 1936. He joined 19 Squadron at Duxford on October 25 1936. Gordon joined 151 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on July 29 1940, as a supernumerary. He took command of the squadron on August 5. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed W of Margate on the 14th. He was shot down in combat with Bf 110s over Rochford on August 18, baled out, badly burned, and was admitted to Rochford Hospital. His Hurricane, P 3940, crashed and burned out at Tabriums Farm, Battlesbridge. On June 1 1942 Gordon failed to return from a sweep, flying with 350 Squadron, as a Wing Commander. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 64.

PO (AAF) 18.6.34 FO (AAF) 18.12.35 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40

DAVID GEORGE GORRIE 80542

PO

Pilot

In June 1938 Gorrie joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741722) and began his weekend flying at 11 E&RFTS, Perth. Called to full-time service on September 1 1939, he was posted to 4 ITW, Bexhill and from there he moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 17 Course, which began on December 9 1939. With training completed, Gorrie arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 27 1940 and, after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere on June 9. On July 3 Gorrie became lost after chasing a Do 17 and he made a forced-landing at Aldeburgh. He was unhurt and his Hurricane was undamaged. On July 12 he shared a He 111, on the 13th he shared another, on August 16 he probably destroyed three Ju 87s, on the 26th he damaged a He 111 and on September 6 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed. Gorrie was posted away from 43 Squadron to 2 CFS, Cranwell on December 8 1940, for an instructor’s course. Afterwards he was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton. On April 8 1941 Gorrie was flying with a pupil, when their aircraft collided with another. He, his pupil, the other instructor and his pupil were all killed. He was then a Flying Officer. Gorrie is buried in Brechin Cemetery.

STANLEY GORDON Sgt

Wop/AG

British

235 Squadron

Gordon, of Heaton, Yorkshire, joined the RAFVR in October 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He volunteered for aircrew duties and remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. With training completed, he joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on October 25 1940 and flew his first operational sortie on the 30th. Gordon was killed on May 28 1941, circumstances unknown, but he was still with 235 Squadron. Also killed were Pilot Officer J O Fenton, pilot, and Flight Sergeant H T Naughtin, also a pilot. Both served with 235 in the Battle of Britain. Gordon is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 44.

WILLIAM HUGH GIBSON GORDON 42120

PO

Pilot

British

43 Squadron

Gorrie was born on January 2 1918 at Ardoch of Gallery, Montrose, a farm to which his family went in 1894. He attended Montrose Academy and left to look after the farm in 1934, when his father died.

PO 22.7.36 FO 22.1.37 FL 22.1.39 SL 1.3.40 WC 1.12.41

939014

British

234 Squadron

Born in Aberdeen in 1920, Gordon began his education at Mortlach Primary School.

PO 27.5.40 He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training on March 13 1939, as a pupil pilot. On May 13 1939 Gordon went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, for a short induction course. He moved on to 6 FTS, Little Rissington for No 12 Course, which ran from May 1 to November 6 1939. Gordon joined 234 Squadron direct from 6 FTS on November 6. The squadron had only recently been reformed at Leconfield. Gordon shared in the probable destruction of a Ju 88 on July 12 1940 and claimed a Bf 109 destroyed over the Isle of Wight on August 24. He was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 109s on September 6. His Spitfire, X 4036, crashed on Howbourne Farm, Hadlow Down. His funeral took place two weeks later at Mortlach Parish Church and he was buried with full military honours. However, recent excavation found that Gordon’s body was still in the aircraft, leaving the painful question of who, or what, was buried at Mortlach in September 1940? The suggestion is that it was probably sand and stones. Gordon was finally laid to rest in July 2003 in Mortlach Parish churchyard, Banff. He is remembered on a memorial plaque, presented to Mortlach Primary School in 2003.

MIECZYSLAW GORZULA 76695

Pilot

British

Polish

615 and 607 Squadrons

On June 1 1940 Gorzula moved to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. He went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum on September 5 1940 for the 6th Polish Pilots’ Course, for testing and grading, until the 14th. Gorzula arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 18 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick on October 4. He moved to 607 Squadron at Tangmere on October 9, then to 229 Squadron at Northolt on November 28 but rejoined 615 Squadron, also at Northolt, on December 2. Gorzula was posted to RAF Northolt, as non-effective sick, when he was admitted to RAF Hospital, Halton for seven days from December 14 1940. He rejoined 615 on December 22. Gorzula was posted to 302 Squadron at Kenley on May 16 1941. He moved to 87 Squadron at Colerne on November 4 but rejoined 302, then at Harrowbeer, on March 16 1942. He was awarded the KW (20.8.42), posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on April 23 1943, as an instructor, and awarded a Bar to the KW (7.7.43). On November 10 1943 Gorzula returned to operations, with a posting to 315 Squadron at Ballyhalbert, as a Flight Commander. He went to 84 Group Support Unit on May 8 1944, was with 306 Squadron for two months from July 31, after which he was attached to HQ PAF, Blackpool before joining 309 Squadron at Andrews Field on November 17 1944, as a Flight Commander. Gorzula destroyed a Me 262 on April 9 1945. He went back to Blackpool on May 25, went to HQ 133 Wing on June 14 and was posted to RAF Coltishall on August 8 1945.

WILLIAM ERNEST GORE FL

Pilot

Born in Cracow on August 1 1919, Gorzula joined the PAF in 1938. He arrived in England in early 1940 and commissioned in the RAFVR in January at RAF Eastchurch.

APO 13.5.39 PO 6.11.39

90279

PO

607 Squadron

An electrical engineer from Stockton-on-Tees, Gore joined 607 Squadron, AAF in 1934. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939 and flew to France with 607 on November 15. On May 11 1940 Gore shared in the destruction of a He 111 and on the 12th he destroyed another.

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DERRICK LESLIE GOULD

Awarded a second Bar to the KW (5.1.46), Gorzula was released from the PAF in January 1947. He later went to live in Australia. He was in poor health in 2005 and he died on December 6 2005.

41173

Pilot

British

British

32, 607 and 601 Squadrons

He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 25 1938, as a pupil pilot. With training completed, he joined 98 Squadron from the School of Air Navigation, Manston on August 14 1939, to fly Fairey Battles. Gould went to France with 98 on April 16 1940. He moved to 226 Squadron, also in France with Battles, on May 19 1940. The squadron was withdrawn to Thirsk, Yorkshire on June 16. Gould volunteered for Fighter Command and he joined 32 Squadron at Acklington on September 3 1940. He moved to 607 Squadron at Tangmere on the 22nd and to 601 Squadron at Exeter on October 5. He was with 213 Squadron, also at Tangmere, by November 6 and claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on November 15. In 1941 Gould was posted to the Middle East. He was attached to 274 Squadron at Gerawala in August and went to 33 Squadron there in October, as a Flight Commander. He took command of the squadron in December 1941 and led it until May 1942, when he went to HQ Middle East. Gould was awarded the DFC (18.9.42). He commanded 274 Squadron from July until October 1943. Gould was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader.

REGINALD CLIVE GOSLING PO

Pilot

Gould was born in Exmouth, Devon in 1919 and later lived in Madras, India. He returned to England, to be educated at Bristol Grammar School.

PO 24.1.40 PO 1.3.41 FO 1.3.42 FL 1.3.43

85245

FO

266 Squadron

Gosling was born in Gravesend on July 4 1919 and educated at Cecil Road School and Gravesend County School. He joined the RAFVR in November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754008) and was called to full-time service in October 1939. He was posted to 3 ITW, Hastings, went to 7 EFTS, Desford on April 16 1940 and completed his flying training at RAF College FTS, Cranwell from June 10 to August 29. He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 7 1940, converted to Spitfires and joined 266 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on the 29th. Posted from the squadron on June 30 1941, Gosling joined 72 Squadron at Biggin Hill. He went to Vickers-Supermarine on January 10 1942, as a test pilot, remaining there until July 4 1944. Gosling was posted to 616 Squadron at Manston on July 10 and was with the squadron, flying Meteors on the Continent and in Germany until its disbandment at Lübeck on August 29 1945. He was released from the RAF on December 31 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. He served in the RAFVR from January 1948 until the end of 1950.

APO 17.9.38 PO 25.7.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.44

GORDON LESLIE GOULD PO 7.9.40 FO 7.9.41 FL 7.9.42 FO (RAFVR) 30.1.48

939718

Sgt

Wop/AG

PO

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

310 and 501 Squadrons

Born at Brno on April 22 1915, Goth volunteered for military service in 1934 and joined 2 Air Regiment at Olomouc. After basic training he entered the Military Air School at Prostejov, where he began flying training as an Air Observer.

For most of the operational sorties on his tour, Gould flew with Pilot Officer H H Crawford, on bomber-escorts, offensive sweeps over enemy-occupied territory and convoy and anti-U boat patrols. On a sweep over Denmark, a Do 18 flying boat was destroyed. In March 1941 they shared in the destruction of a He 111 and on another occasion they attacked some He 115s but no results were seen. Gould was posted from 235 in November 1941 and he went to the RAE at Farnborough, for experimental flying duties. During the war years he flew in many different British and American aircraft and after May 1945 in many different German types. On May 13 1944 he was one of a crew of three in a Whitley, on elevator stick force tests. During manoeuvres, one of the engines caught fire and the crew baled out, safely. Gould was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Warrant Officer. He died in 1984.

On completion of the training he was posted to 5 Squadron, 2 Air Regiment at Brno. On June 25 1935 whilst on a training flight in an Avia A-11 biplane, his aircraft crashed near the firing range at Medlanky. Both crew were seriously injured and Goth remained in hospital until August. In November Goth joined the Military Aviation Academy at Hranice for pilot training. He graduated in November 1937 and was then assigned to 3 Air Regiment at Piestany airbase in Slovakia. Following the German takeover of Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939, Goth was demobilised on the 17th. He escaped to Cieszyn, Poland on June 12, via Cesky Tesin. He reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate in Krakow. On July 31 he sailed, on the Kastelholm, from Gdynia to Calais. On arrival he was required to join the Foreign Legion with the assurance that if war was declared he would be transferred to a French military unit. After the outbreak of war, he went to l’Armée de l’Air and was posted to Centre d’Instruction de Chasse (CIC) 6 at Chartres for retraining to French equipment. Goth had not joined an operational unit before the German invasion of France on May 10 1940. He was released from service with l’Armee de l’Air and made his way to Bordeaux where he boarded the Karanan which sailed to Falmouth where he arrived on June 21 1940. He went first to the transit camp at Cholmondeley, was commissioned in the RAFVR and then joined 310 Squadron at Duxford on July 12. He converted to Hurricanes on the squadron. In August he was posted to 501 Squadron, based at Kenley, On September 7, Goth claimed two Bf 110s destroyed over Southend but his aircraft was damaged by return fire and he made a forced-landing at Whitmans Farm, Purleigh. Goth was killed on the October 25 1940 when his Hurricane, P 3903, collided with Pilot Officer K W MacKenzie during a combat over Tenterden. Goth’s aircraft crashed in an orchard at Manor Farm, Staplehurst. McKenzie’s Hurricane, P 2903, crashed in Bridgehurst Wood, Marden. Goth is buried in Grave 141, Section W at the Old Ground, Sittingbourne and Milton Cemetery, Kent.

RONALD JOSEPH GOULDSTONE 812360

Air Gunner

British

29 Squadron

After completing his training, he appears to have arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 27 1940, for Blenheim experience. From there, he joined 29 Squadron at Digby on August 7. He was a member of the crew of Blenheim L 1330, which crashed into the sea on August 25, possibly shot down in combat over Wainfleet. All three men on board were lost, Gouldstone, Pilot Officer R A Rhodes, pilot, and AC 2 N Jacobson, radar operator. Gouldstone’s body was washed ashore at Gibraltar Point, Skegness on September 5. He was 19 and is buried in St Martin’s churchyard, Ryarsh. The other two members of the crew were never found.

E C GOTHORPE AC

Sgt

Gouldstone, of Ryarsh, Kent, joined 500 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand. Called up on August 24 1939, he later applied for aircrew duties and remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner.

PO 12.7.40

Number unknown

235 Squadron

Gould joined the RAFVR in October 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. He completed his wireless training and was posted to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton in August 1940, direct from gunnery school, with six flying hours in his logbook.

VILEM GOTH 81945

British

GEOFFREY KENNETH GOUT Radar Operator

British

25 Squadron

41918

PO

Pilot

British

234 Squadron

According to the squadron ORB, he flew two operational sorties with 25 Squadron, on August 1 and October 25 1940, from Martlesham Heath and Debden respectively, as a radar operator.

Gout was educated at New Beacon School, Sevenoaks. He was a keen motorist and raced at Brooklands before the war. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training on February 6 1939, as a pupil pilot.

He flew a third sortie on November 8 1940. No other service details have been traced.

He completed his training at 6 FTS, Little Rissington, on No 12 Course, which ran from

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did a Combined Operations course. The squadron moved to Predannack on October 13. In the early evening of October 24 1943 Gowers led an attack on a 6,000 ton motor vessel in Cherbourg Harbour. Heavy flak was encountered and Gowers’ Typhoon was seen to go down in flames just outside the mole. Two other 183 Typhoons were also shot down. Gowers is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 118.

May 1 to November 6 1939. He was posted direct to 234 Squadron, reformed at Leconfield on October 30. Gout was killed on July 25 1940 when his Spitfire, P 9493, crashed near Porthowan during a routine night patrol over Plymouth, cause unknown. Official records indicate that he was unable to find his way back in the dark to his base, St Eval. With fuel running low, he probably tried to make a forced-landing, crashing on a farm about 15 miles from St Eval. A crash investigator gave the farmer’s son Gout’s wings, from his tunic found in the wreckage. They are now in Flambards Museum, in Helston, Cornwall. Gout’s fiancé in 1940, Judy Chard, finally found out in March 1999 the circumstances of his death. They were childhood sweethearts from the age of five. However both families opposed the relationship and theirs was a secret engagement. Gout’s mother did not advise Judy of Geoffrey’s death. At the time she was working in the Midlands and read of his death in a newspaper obituary and missed his funeral. She later had a 50 year-long happy marriage. Gout was 24 and he is buried in St Eval churchyard, Cornwall.

APO 24.10.37 PO 19.2.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

EDWARD JOHN GRACIE 29090

British

British

56 Squadron

In March 1937 he was granted a five-year commission in Class ‘A’ of the RAFO. Called to active service on September 3 1939, Gracie joined 79 Squadron at Biggin Hill on October 26. He moved to 56 Squadron at North Weald on June 27 1940, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on July 10, probably destroyed a Do 17 on the 15th, shared a Ju 88 on the 20th, and destroyed a Ju 87 on the 25th. Gracie damaged two Bf 110s on August 13, got a probable Bf 109 on the 16th, destroyed a Bf 110 on the 18th, shared a Do 17 on the 27th, and destroyed another on the 28th. He destroyed a He 111 and damaged another on the 30th. In this last action Gracie was himself shot down, crashing and burning out near Halstead, in Hurricane P 3554. Gracie believed himself unhurt but discovered next day that he had a broken neck and was admitted to hospital. He rejoined 56 Squadron, then at Boscombe Down, on October 8 1940. He was awarded the DFC (1.10.40). Posted from 56 for a rest on January 7 1941, Gracie was given command of 23 Squadron at Ford in March. During the night of March 14/15 he got a probable Do 17, when intruding in a Blenheim over Merville in France. He took over 601 Squadron at Northolt in late April 1941 and remained with the squadron until December 24 1941. He was then posted to Malta and took command of 126 Squadron at Ta Kali in March 1942, when he led Spitfires off the carrier HMS Eagle, to replace 126’s Hurricanes. Gracie damaged a Ju 88 on March 26, claimed a Ju 88 probably destroyed on April 2. He went to Gibraltar soon afterwards, to join the carrier USS Wasp and on April 20 he flew off, leading twelve Spitfires of 601 Squadron to Malta. The next day Gracie claimed two Ju 88s, another probable and damaged two others and on the 23rd he shared a Ju 87. On the 29th Gracie was promoted to Acting Wing Commander and appointed Station Commander at Ta Kali. He returned to the UK in June 1942 and commanded 32 Squadron at West Malling briefly in September, before being posted to 57 OTU, Hawarden, to instruct. Gracie was posted to RAF Ayr on October 1 1943, to form and command 169 Squadron, to operate in Mosquitos on bomber support. He flew the squadron’s first operational sortie on January 20 1944, a night escort to Hamburg, during a Berlin raid. Gracie was killed over Germany on February 15 1944, as a Wing Commander. His navigator, Flight Lieutenant W W Todd, survived and was made a PoW. Gracie is buried in Hanover War Cemetery. His portrait was drawn by Cuthbert Orde.

ARTHUR VINCENT GOWERS Pilot

Pilot

Born in Acton, London in 1911, Gracie joined the RAF on a short service commission in June 1930. He was dismissed by sentence of a General Court Martial on June 19 1933.

APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39

40166 FO

FL

85 Squadron Gowers was born at Chelmsford on June 18 1913 and educated at the Royal Grammar School, Colchester from 1923 to 1928. After leaving school, he worked briefly at the Marconi Wireless and Telegraph Works at Chelmsford.

After a spell as a a clerk with the Clacton Urban District Council, Gowers worked for Kalamazoo from 1932 to 1934. In June 1932 Gowers had joined the HAC, as an infantry private. He was discharged at his own request in June 1933, when he joined the RASC (TA). He was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in March 1934 but resigned in March 1936. Gowers joined the RAFVR on July 5 1937 as an Airman u/t Pilot. (740431). He applied for a short service commission in the RAF, was provisionally accepted and began his ab initio course on August 23 1937 at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham, as a pupil pilot, which he successfully completed. On October 24 1937 Gowers went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, where he was commissioned and put through a short induction course. He was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on November 6 and gained his flying badge on February 18 1938. At the end of the course he went to 26 MU, Cardington on June 4, for flying duties. Gowers joined 85 Squadron at Debden on August 10 1938. The squadron went to France at the outbreak of war. Gowers returned to England in April 1940, after an attack of jaundice. He rejoined the squadron between May 10 and 20 but had not fully recovered and was taken off flying and sent back to hospital. He returned again to England and then rejoined 85 at Debden from hospital on June 21 1940. On August 18 Gowers destroyed a Ju 87 E of Foulness Island. The next day 85 moved to Croydon, to relieve 111 Squadron. On the 28th Gowers damaged a Bf 110, on the 30th he destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 31st he destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another. In combat with Bf 109s over Oxted on September 1, Gowers’ Hurricane, V 7343, was badly damaged and he baled out, with badly-burned hands and slight wounds to a hand and a foot. He was taken to the LCC Mental Hospital at Caterham for treatment. When Gowers rejoined 85 Squadron on December 28 1940, it had gone over to night patrols. In March 1941 he went to Watchfield for a Blind Approach course. At the end of his tour Gowers was awarded the DFC (1.7.41) and attached to RAF Kenley on July 25 for Control Room duties. He received a Mention in Despatches (24.9.41). The attachment ceased on October 21 1941, Gowers went to 56 OTU, Sutton Bridge for a refresher course on November 14 and then joined 504 Squadron at Ballyhalbert, as a Flight Commander. On February 16 1942 he was posted to Air HQ Far East but, after a short time there, his burned hands were badly affected by the hot climate and he was admitted to hospital in Delhi on April 1 1942. After being discharged on May 7, Gowers returned to the UK and went to 53 OTU, Llandow, to convert to Typhoons, after which he joined 56 Squadron at Snailwell on August 8 1942, as a supernumerary. On the 27th he had a crash, writing off a Typhoon, and was admitted to Norwich Hospital, leaving there on the 29th for Station Sick Quarters at Coltishall. Gowers was posted to Church Fenton on November 20 1942, as an Acting Squadron Leader, to take command of 183 Squadron, forming there with Typhoons. On April 19 1943 he led the squadron on its first operation, a bombing attack on the power station at Yainville, France, escorted by the Kenley Wing. The next operation did not take place until May 14, when eight Typhoons were escorted by 486 (NZ) Squadron to bomb Triqueville aerodrome. On June 4 1943, 183 Squadron moved to Harrowbeer and later in the month Gowers

PO 27.6.30 FO 27.1.32 FO (RAFO) 23.3.37 FO 3.9.39 FL 20.3.40 SL 1.12.42

EDWARD GRAHAM 37449

FL

Pilot

British

72 Squadron Graham was born on June 21 1911 in Ebbw Vale, Monmouthshire. He went to Wellington School, Somerset from 1923 to 1929 and after leaving, he worked for a road and dam building-contractor in Argyll and Brecon, doing general office work and as a timekeeper.

About July 1934 Graham enlisted in Class ‘F’ of the RAF Reserve and began flying training at the Bristol Flying School at Filton, as an Airman u/t Pilot (700098). He was released from this, when he joined the RAF on a short service commission in September 1935. Graham was posted to 4 FTS, Abu Sueir on November 23. With the course completed, Graham joined 41 Squadron at Sheik Othman, Aden on April 24 1936 and later in the year he returned with it to the UK. On March 22 1937 Graham was posted to 72 Squadron, when it was reformed at Tangmere. In April 1939 the squadron exchanged its Gladiators for Spitfires. Graham was ‘B’ Flight Commander on September 1 1939. At Christmas 72 was at Drem but moved to Acklington in early 1940. From June 1 to 6 the squadron was based at Gravesend, to support the Dunkirk evacuation. On July 1 Graham shared in destroying a He 59 seaplane.

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His Hurricane, V 7368, was set alight in a surprise attack by enemy aircraft during a sector patrol on August 16. Graham baled out, slightly injured. He was posted away three days later to RAF North Weald, as non-effective sick. No further service details traced. Graham was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader.

On August 15 1940 the squadron intercepted a large force of bombers of Luftflotte 5, from Norway, escorted by Bf 110s, 40 miles E of the Faroe Islands. This force was broken up and forced to retire, seeking cover in the large masses of clouds. 72 Squadron moved south to Biggin Hill on August 31, the day the station was devastated by several major raids by the Germans. On this day Graham damaged two Do 17s. The squadron moved to Croydon the next day and Graham damaged two Bf 109s. On September 2 Graham damaged a Bf 110. His Spitfire was damaged by return fire in the vicinity of the fuel tank and he made a forced-landing at Lympne. At night on September 7 Graham’s propeller stopped at the end of the runway at Croydon, as he was landing, out of fuel. On the 11th he damaged a Bf 109. 72 returned to Biggin Hill on the 12th. Graham took command of 72 on September 21, as an Acting Squadron Leader, when the CO, Squadron Leader A R Collins, was posted away, as non-effective sick. He led it until early March 1941, when he was posted to Catterick as Senior Sector Operations Officer. In 1942 he became Station Commander at Acklington. Graham went to HQ 13 Group at Newcastle in early 1945 and at the end of the year he was posted to India, to command RAF Ranchi. In 1946 he was with the UK Mission to Australia and New Zealand, planning the setting up of forces in Japan. He held various appointments at home and overseas prior to his retirement from the RAF on December 27 1958, as a Wing Commander, retaining the rank of Group Captain. Graham later settled in Australia.

PO 14.7.40 FO 14.4.42 FL 4.11.42

JOHN GRANDY 32078

Air Gunner

British

236 Squadron

Graham joined the RAF in October 1938, as an Aircrafthand (624846). He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and with training completed he joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island in July 1940. He flew his first operational sortie on July 27, escorting a seaplane from the Scillies to Poole. His last sortie with 236 Squadron was made on November 8 1940. Graham was with 7 Squadron at Oakington in 1941. In June he was rear gunner of a Stirling which was attacked by two fighters twenty miles W of Texel. They came in simultaneously from the port and starboard quarters. During the action, Graham’s reflector sight stopped working and two of his guns jammed. Despite continuous attacks, he repaired his sight, cleared his stoppages and then shot down one of the enemy fighters into the sea. For this action he was awarded the DFM (4.7.41). Graham was commissioned in February 1942 and killed on June 26 1942, whilst with 1651 Conversion Unit, Waterbeach. His aircraft, Stirling W 7442, was on an operation to Bremen. It was shot down by a night-fighter in the Waldenzee. Graham is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 69. PO 19.2.42

KENNETH ALFRED GEORGE GRAHAM 78737

PO

Pilot

British

600,111 and 263 Squadrons

Graham joined 600 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand (800508). When the training scheme for Airman u/t Pilots was introduced in the AuxAF, Graham applied, was selected and began his flying training on April 16 1939, as a Corporal. Called up on August 24 1939, Graham completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 43 Course, which ran from October 9 1939 to April 27 1940. On completion of the course, Graham was commissioned and rejoined 600 Squadron, then at Manston, on May 4. He was detached to 2 School of Army Co-operation, Andover on July 11 1940, for night flying training. He had rejoined 600 by the 22nd. Graham was posted to 111 Squadron at Debden on August 24. He was posted to RAF Kenley on the 26th, as non-effective sick. He did not make any flights with 111 and appears to have rejoined 600 Squadron on recovery from his illness. Graham was posted from 600 to 263 Squadron at Drem on October 14. He went to St Eval with ‘B’ Flight of 263 on December 29 1940, to fly convoy patrols. On February 8 1941 he shot down an Arado Ar 196 just SE of Dodman Point, Cornwall. His Whirlwind was damaged in the engagement, crashed into the sea and Graham was lost. He was 20 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 32.

DONALD GRANT Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

Pilot

South African

Pilot

British

804 Squadron

Grant joined 804 Squadron at Hatston on June 11 1940, from Fleet Fighter Pool (760 Squadron). At the start of the Battle of Britain 804 was flying Gladiators on dockyard defence. He received orders on July 14 1940 to be at Abbotsinch on July 20, with tropical kit. He embarked on HMS Argus, which sailed on the 23rd for Malta. Grant and other pilots aboard were then in 418 Flight. The carrier arrived at Gibraltar and sailed into the Mediterranean on July 31. It would appear that Grant did not fly a Hurricane in the group which flew off for Malta on August 2. He must have left the carrier at Gibraltar and then been flown to Malta in one of the Sunderlands which followed the Hurricanes to Malta on August 2. On arrival, Grant joined 830 (TSR) Squadron at Hal Far. He was released from the Navy in 1946, as a Lieutenant.

LESLIE WILLIAM GRAHAM PO

249 Squadron

PO 11.9.31 FO 11.6.33 FL 11.6.36 SL 1.2.39 WC 1.3.41 GC 1.7.44 GC 1.1.50 AC 1.1.56 AVM 1.7.58 AM 1.1.62 ACM 1.4.65 MRAF 1.4.71

PO 27.4.40 FO 14.4.42 FL 4.11.42

81912

British

With training completed, Grandy joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 29 1932. He was posted to 604 Squadron, AuxAF at Hendon on April 15 1935, as Flying Instructor. On January 13 1936 he went on a course to CFS Upavon, after which he instructed at 9 FTS, Thornaby. He was granted a Permanent Commission on September 11 1936. He joined the Station Flight, Northolt on November 2 1936 but early in 1937 was posted to the London University Air Squadron, as Adjutant and Flying Instructor. In February 1939 Grandy became CFI at 13 FTS, Drem and on November 6 1939 he was given command of CGS. On April 14 1940 Grandy was given command of 219 Squadron at Catterick and on May 16 he took command of 249 Squadron, when it was reformed at Church Fenton. On September 2 he damaged a Do 17. He was shot down in combat over Maidstone on September 6, baled out, slightly wounded and was admitted to Maidstone Hospital. He was discharged next day but did not fly between September 7 and October 31. The squadron was led in the air by Flight Lieutenant R A Barton, who was OC ‘B’ Flight. Grandy left the squadron in December 1940 and went to HQ Fighter Command, on staff duties. In March 1941 Grandy was made OC Training Wing at 52 OTU, Debden. He was Wing Commander Flying at Coltishall later in the year and in 1942 was Station Commander at Duxford. Grandy was posted to HQ 210 Group in the Middle East in early 1943 and commanded 73 OTU at Abu Sueir from September 19 1943. He went to South East Asia Command in 1944 and commanded 341 Wing, Dakotas. With the Japanese out of Rangoon, he dropped a Union Jack and a Stars and Stripes over Government House there on May 2 1945, before landing at Mingaladon, in a Dakota. He supervised the repair of the airfield to receive the supply aircraft due to arrive. Grandy was awarded the DSO (19.10.45) and received two Mentions in Despatches (1.1.43 and 1.1.45). He went on to a most distinguished post-war career in the RAF, including service at the Air Ministry and as Air Attaché in Belgium. He held appointments in Fighter Command and commanded the second phase of Operation Grapple, the British hydrogen bomb tests at Christmas Island in the Pacific.becoming a Marshal of the RAF in April 1971. He went on to high commands in Germany and the Far East, as well as heading Bomber Command. He became Chief of the Air Staff on April 1 1967 and was in office for four years. He became the first RAF officer to be Governor and Commander-in-Chief of Gibraltar. He was Constable and Governor of Windsor Castle from 1978 to 1988. Grandy was invested with the CB (31.5.56), the KBE (10.6.61), the KCB (13.6.64), the GCB (1.1.67) and the GCVO (1.1.88). Grandy died on January 2 2004 at Wexham Park Hospital, Slough, following a stroke.

JAMES GRAHAM Sgt

Pilot

Born at Northwood, Middlesex on February 8 1913, Grandy was educated at Northwood Preparatory School and University College School, London. He joined the RAF on a short service commission in September 1931 and was posted on the 26th to 5 FTS, Sealand.

APO 6.11.35 PO 24.4.36 FO 24.11.37 FL 24.11.39 SL 1.12.40 WC 1.3.42 SL 1.7.45 WC 1.7.54

47909

SL

56 Squadronn

Graham had served in the South African Air Force and apparently was granted a directentry RAFVR commission, because of that service. He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 15 1940 and, after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 56 Squadron at North Weald on July 29.

Midshipman 21.2.39 Sub-Lt 27.7.40 Lt 27.1.43

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EDWIN JOHN FORGAN GRANT 749872

Sgt

Radar Operator

He returned to Malta later in the year and took command of the Spitfire Wing. He shared a Bf 110 and destroyed a Ju 52 on December 11. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (29.1.43). Grant later went to 203 (Training) Group in the Middle East and in 1944 was at Advance HQ Mediterranean Allied Air Force in Italy, as Command Training Officer. After the war Grant was at the Air Ministry in 1946/47, with Flying Training Command from 1948 to 1954, with Fighter Command in 1955/56, after which he went to SEATO, as a Group Captain. Grant returned to Fighter Command in 1960 and did a course at the Imperial Defence College in 1962. After two years with Nato, 1963/64, as an Air Commodore, he was appointed to the staff of the IDC, remaining there until 1968. Grant’s final duty was as Commander of the British Forces in the Persian Gulf. Created a CB (1969), Grant retired from the RAF on June 6 1970, as an Air Vice-Marshal. He died on July 6 1987.

British 600 Squadron

Grant joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1 1939, he does not appear to have completed his training. It is likely that he did a short radar course before he joined 600 Squadron at Manston on July 10 1940, as an Aircraftsman. Grant made his first flight on July 12 and flew his first operational sortie on the 13th, in a Blenheim. On October 1 1940 Grant flew his first operational sortie in a Beaufighter. He was promoted to Sergeant in mid-October. Grant was killed on December 1 1941, aged 21, as a Sergeant, still with 600 Squadron. He was in a Beaufighter tasked to intercept a FW 200 on weather reconnaissance. The Beaufighter lost an engine through icing and ditched. The body of the pilot, Flight Lieutenant J G Fletcher, AFC was eventually washed ashore but Grant was not found. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 44.

PO 17.12.38 FO 17.6.40 FL 17.6.41 SL 1.7.43 WC 1.7.50 GC 1.1.57 AC 1.1.62 AVM 1.1.66

IAN ALLAN CHARLES GRANT 391351

Sgt

Pilot New Zealander

ROBERT DAVIDSON GRASSICK

151 Squadron

41579

FO

Pilot

Canadian

Born in Woodville on November 21 1915, Grant was educated in Auckland and then employed as a sheet-metal worker.

242 Squadron

Grassick was born in London, Ontario on May 22 1917. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio flying on October 31 1938, as a pupil pilot. He did his intermediate and advanced training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 39 Course, which ran from January 30 to September 2 1939.

He volunteered for aircrew in September 1939 and went to the Ground Training School at Weraroa on November 19. He was posted to 2 EFTS, New Plymouth on December 18 and then to 2 FTS, Woodbourne on March 11 1940. With training completed, Grant left for the UK in the RMS Rangitane on July 12 and arrived on August 27. Grant was sent to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge next day, to await a posting. He went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 9, to convert to Hurricanes and then joined 151 Squadron at Digby on the 30th. On October 25 he was injured in a night landing accident at base, in Hurricane L 2047. He came off flying, as non-effective sick. Grant was posted to 7 B&GS, Stormy Down on November 23, as a staff pilot. He was commissioned in October 1941 and on July 12 1942 was posted to 52 OTU, Debden, for conversion to Spitfires. In October Grant joined 501 Squadron at Middle Wallop and on November 19 was posted to Kingscliffe, to 485 Squadron, then commanded by his older brother, Reg. On February 13 1943 the squadron went on a sweep. After crossing the French coast they were directed to a force of FW 190s. A further twenty enemy fighters attacked out of the sun and three Spitfires were shot down, including Ian Grant’s. An aircraft crashed in the vicinity of Cucq and buried itself deeply in marshy ground. Attempts were made after the war to recover the pilot’s body but were unsuccessful, so it is not known whether it was Grant. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 197.

He joined 3 Squadron at Croydon on September 3, the day war was declared. On November 5 he went to 242 Squadron, then reforming at Church Fenton. Grassick went to France on May 14 1940, on attachment to 607 Squadron. He moved to 615 Squadron on the 16th and returned to England on the 19th. Whilst in France, he destroyed two Bf 109s and a Ju 88 on May 15 and 16. Over Dunkirk on May 25, 29 and 31, Grassick destroyed three Bf 109s. 242 was posted to France on June 8, to reinforce No 1, 73 and 501 Squadrons. Grassick did not go over until June 12 and he returned with the other pilots to England on the 16th. In late August he was injured in a motorcycle accident and was off flying for some time, not making his next operational sortie until October 4 1940. On April 1 1941 Grassick shared in destroying a Ju 88, on the night of May 10/11 he destroyed a He 111, on June 17 a Bf 109 and probably another and on the 23rd probably another. Grassick was made a Flight Commander on June 17 1941, awarded the DFC (15.7.41) and posted away to 73 OTU, Aden on September 28. He was with 260 Squadron in the Western Desert in March 1942 and in June was posted to a Communications Flight at Eastleigh, South Africa. From January 1943 Grassick was on test pilot duties in East Africa, until February 1944, when he was posted to 216 Group. He transferred to the RCAF on May 1 1945 and returned to Canada.

PO 27.10.41 FO 1.10.42

APO 14.1.39 FO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

STANLEY BERNARD GRANT 33417

FO

Pilot

British

65 Squadron

EDWARD ARTHUR GRAVES 632826

Grant was born on May 31 1919 and educated at Charterhouse. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1937, as a Flight Cadet, and graduated in December 1938, with a Permanent Commission.

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

235 Squadron

Graves joined the RAF about February 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered to Airman u/t Wop/AG. He completed his training and in May 1940 was with 22 Squadron, a torpedo-bomber unit.

At the outbreak of war Grant was with 65 Squadron at Hornchurch. Over Dunkirk on May 26, he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and on the 27th another Bf 110 probably destroyed and a Do 17 shared. Grant claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed on July 9 1940. He made his last flight with 65 on July 31, then went to 5 OTU, Aston Down next day, as an instructor. He rejoined 65 Squadron at Tangmere on February 24 1941 and was made a Flight Commander in August. Grant was posted to 601 Squadron at Duxford in December. In February 1942 he went to Gibraltar in the carrier HMS Eagle, with sixteen Spitfires for Malta, the first to be allocated to the defence of the island. He led fifteen of them off the carrier on March 7, leaving one behind with engine trouble. Grant joined 249 Squadron at Ta Kali, as a supernumerary Squadron Leader. He took command of 249 Squadron on March 14 1942. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on March 11, damaged a Bf 109 on the 17th, claimed a Ju 87 and a Bf 109 on the 25th, probably destroyed a Ju 87 and damaged a Ju 87, a Ju 88 and a Bf 109 on April 1, shared in a Ju 88 on the 21st, and destroyed a Regianne 2001 on June 10. Awarded the DFC (5.6.42), Grant was posted away to the Middle East on June 30 1942.

On August 23 1940 Graves was attached to 235 Squadron. He flew an operational sortie on August 25, an escort for minelayers. On the 30th, on a non-operational flight with Pilot Officer J S Priestley, their Blenheim went into a sustained spin and crashed at Barwick Farm, near Bircham Newton. Both men were killed. Graves was 21. He is buried in St Richard’s churchyard, Langney, Eastbourne, Sussex.

RICHARD COURTNEY GRAVES 83289

PO

Pilot

British

253 and 85 Squadrons

Graves was born on April 3 1921 in London. His father, Arnold Graves, had served in the Royal Engineers, RFC (including with 30 Squadron in the Middle East) and the RAF. His mother, Marie-Antoinette was French. The parents divorced and Mrs Graves took her son and his sister to France, where Graves attended a boarding school. Graves returned to England, became an apprentice with de Havilland at Hatfield and joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748763). Called up on

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Gray was posted to 73 Squadron at Castle Camps on November 2 1940. The squadron embarked on the carrier HMS Furious on the 10th, bound for the Middle East, and flew off to Takoradi on November 29. It then flew by easy stages to Heliopolis, via Lagos, Accra, Kano, Maiduguri, Khartoum, Wadi Halfa and Abu Sueir. On arrival on December 13, Gray went to the Middle East Pool, Ismailia. After a bout of malaria, he flew a Hurricane to Malta on March 6 1941 and joined 261 Squadron at Ta Kali. Gray was shot down on May 6 and baled out, wounded in the left thigh. He joined 185 Squadron when it was reformed at Hal Far on May 12. He damaged two Mc 200s on July 11 and was posted back to the UK at the end of the month. He went to 61 OTU, Heston on September 1, moved to 56 OTU, Sutton Bridge on October 30 and on June 17 1942 he was attached to the 307th Pursuit Squadron, USAF, as a Liaison Officer. On August 30 1942 Gray was posted to 222 Squadron at Drem and stayed with it until February 1943, when he went to 61 OTU, Rednal, as an instructor. He returned to operations on December 12 1943, joining 124 Squadron at West Malling. Awarded the DFC (17.8.45), Gray was with 124 until April 3 1946, when he was given command of 91 Squadron at Duxford. In the post-war years he held a number of flying and staff appointments before his retirement on August 1 1963, as a Wing Commander.

September 1 1939, he completed his flying training at 9 FTS, Hullavington on No 19 Course, which ran from May 13 to August 17 1940. He was commissioned on August 17 and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 18. After converting to Hurricanes, Graves was posted to 253 Squadron at Kenley on September 8. He moved to 85 Squadron at Church Fenton on the 15th but rejoined 253 on the 25th. In combat with Bf 109s over Weybridge on the 29th, in which he destroyed a Bf 109, Graves’ aircraft was set alight in an attack by another Hurricane. He baled out, wounded and burned, and was admitted to Brockley Park Hospital, Haywards Heath. His Hurricane, V 6621, crashed and burned out on Longridge Farm, Chailey. He rejoined 253 Squadron on November 5 1940, fit for flying duties. He damaged a Bf 109 on November 14 and claimed 2 Bf 109s probably destroyed and 1 damaged on December 2. Graves was flying one of twenty-four Hurricanes, which flew off HMS Ark Royal, to reinforce Malta, on April 27 1941. He joined 261 Squadron, claiming one e/a damaged on May 3 and one shared on May 14. Graves went to the Middle East when the squadron was disbanded in May. He joined 30 Squadron and served with it in Egypt, the Western Desert and later in Ceylon in 1942. On August 6 1942 he was made ‘B’ Flight Commander. Serving with the squadron in Ceylon he was credited with one destroyed, 1 probable and one damaged. He moved to 273 Squadron in May 1943 and took command of ‘A’ Flight. He commanded the squadron from June 7 as an acting Squadron Leader. On December 18 he was posted to HQ 222 Group in Colombo. On the night of January 25/26 1944, Graves was on the SS Surada torpedoed by U-188. He was amongst survivors who spent two days in lifeboats before being picked up by the SS Darrow and landed at Aden. He returned to the UK, served at HQ, Air Defence of Great Britain, then in Brussels and France, spending some time training French pilots. Released from the RAF in 1948, as a Squadron Leader, Graves worked for Mobil Oil in Morocco, Senegal and France. He took early retirement in the mid 1970s and settled in Epinal in the Vosges, France. In July 1978 he was driving his car locally when he was taken ill and died at the wheel. The car went off the road and he was not found until the next day.

PO 6.7.40 FO 6.7.41 FL 6.7.42 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.7.55

COLIN FALKLAND GRAY 41844

Pilot

British

615 Squadron Gray was granted a commission for five years in 601 Squadron, AAF in November 1932. He went on to the AAFRO in November 1937.

Recalled to full-time service on September 4 1939, Gray was posted to RAF Church Fenton on the 5th, to be a Sector Controller. He was appointed Acting Flight Lieutenant on October 4 1939 and then made Acting Squadron Leader on November 16 1939. He relinquished his acting rank and was posted from Church Fenton to 601 Squadron at Tangmere on June 26 1940. Gray was attached to 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 1, converted to Hurricanes and joined 615 Squadron at Kenley on July 15 1940. He damaged a Do 17 on August 14 and claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on August 26. He was declared non-effective for operational flying on November 28 1940 and put in charge of the Station Flight at Northolt. Gray was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1986. PO (AAF) 5.11.32 FO (AAF) 5.5.34 FO (AAFRO) 5.11.37 FO 4.9.40 FL 16.2.41 SL 1.3.42

CLIFFORD KEMPSON GRAY 81370

PO

Pilot

British

New Zealander

54 Squadron

Gray began his ab initio training at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield on January 23 1939, as a pupil pilot. He moved to 11 FTS, Shawbury on April 18 for No 12 Course. The final part of the course was two weeks of armament training at 9 Air Observer School, Penrhos. With this completed on October 23 1939, Gray was posted to 11 Group Pool at St Athan, where he converted to Hurricanes. On November 20 1939 Gray joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch, to fly Spitfires. He shared in the destruction of a Bf 109 on May 24 1940 and returned to Kenley badly damaged, without brakes, flaps, airspeed indicator or guns. Gray destroyed a Bf 109 on July 13, two more on the 24th, a probable Bf 109 on the 25th, two Bf 109s on August 12 and two Bf 109s on the 15th. He was awarded the DFC (15.8.40). On August 18 Gray destroyed a Bf 110, shared another, damaged two more and damaged a Do 17. He shot down a Bf 110 on the 24th, and Bf 109s on the 25th and 31st, another Bf 109 and a probable He 111 on September 1, a Bf 109 and a Bf 110 on the 2nd and a Bf 109 and a shared Bf 110 on the 3rd. On December 16 1940 Gray was posted to 43 Squadron as ‘B’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. He rejoined 54 Squadron on January 16 1941, to be ‘A’ Flight Commander. He went to No 1 Squadron at Redhill on June 12, as ‘B’ Flight Commander, and shared a He 59 on the 16th. Flying with 41 Squadron on August 2 1941, he shot down a Bf 109, which crashed on its own airfield at Le Havre. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (20.9.41). Posted to Debden on September 28, to command 403 Squadron, Gray was recalled to Tangmere three days later to take command of 616 Squadron at Westhampnett. At the end of his tour Gray was posted to HQ 9 Group, Preston, as Squadron Leader Tactics, on February 25 1942. He went to 64 Squadron at Fairlop, as a supernumerary, on September 28 and took command of the squadron on November 1 1942. Gray was posted overseas in late December and reported to HQ 333 Group at Algiers on January 19 1943. He joined 81 Squadron at Gibraltar, as CO, on the 24th and on the 27th the squadron flew across to Tingley airfield, SW of Bone. On February 22 Gray probably destroyed a Bf 109, on March 2 shared in the probable destruction of another, on the 23rd destroyed a Mc 202, on the 25th and 27th two Bf 109s, on April 3 a Bf 109, on the 18th a probable Bf 109, on the 20th a Bf 109 and another shared and two more Bf 109s on the 23rd and the 28th. He was awarded the DSO (15.5.43). On June 1 1943 Gray was made Wing Commander Flying 322 Wing at Ta Kali, Malta. He shot down a Bf 109 on June 14, a Mc 202 on the 17th and a Bf 109 on July 10, the day the invasion of Sicily took place. The Wing moved to Lentini airfield on July 19. On the 25th Gray led the Wing to attack a large force of Ju 52s, landing supplies on beaches near Milazzo. 21 were destroyed, two by Gray, and four enemy fighters were also shot down.

ANTHONY PHILIP GRAY FL

Pilot

Born in Christchurch on November 9 1914, Gray and his twin brother, Kenneth, applied for RAF short service commissions in April 1937. His brother was accepted but Gray failed for medical reasons. In January 1938 he failed again but, third time lucky, he passed in September. On December 16 he left for the UK in the RMS Rangitata.

PO 17.8.40 FO 17.8.41 FL 17.8.42

90155

FO

43 Squadron

Born on September 8 1916, Gray joined the RAFVR on January 9 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742779) and began his flying training at 5 E&RFTS, Hanworth. Called to fulltime service in November, Gray was posted to No 1 ITW, Cambridge on the 10th, moving to 11 FTS, Shawbury on January 29 1940. Gray was commissioned and went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 6, to convert to Hurricanes. He then joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere on August 3. He damaged three He 111s on August 12, damaged a Do 17 on the 13th, destroyed a Ju 87 and probably another on the 16th and destroyed another Ju 87 on the 18th. Gray was shot down over Portsmouth on the 26th and baled out, wounded in the right arm. His Hurricane, P 3202, crashed at Ratham Mill, Bosham. On September 8 Gray crashed at Gedney Dye, Lincolnshire, after his engine seized during a ferry flight to Usworth.

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TREVOR GRAY

On September 7 1943 Gray went to HQ MEF, Cairo and returned to the UK in October. He was given command of 2 CTW, Balado Bridge on the 30th, received his DSO from the King on November 9 and was awarded a second Bar to the DFC (15.11.43). He was posted to 61 OTU on December 4, as OC Training Wing. He went to the Fighter Leaders’ School at Milfield on June 8 1944, as OC Spitfire Wing and on July 27 was made Wing Leader at Detling, moving two weeks later to the Lympne Wing. Gray led the Wing until January 1945, when he was posted to Cranwell for a Senior Commanders’ Course, after which he became Station Commander at RAF Skeabrae. Granted a Permanent Commission in April 1945, Gray stayed on in the RAF and held a series of appointments and commands before retiring, at his own request, on March 31 1961, as a Group Captain. He had served as Secretary of the Battle of Britain Fighter Association. He returned to New Zealand and worked for the Unilever Company, retiring as Personnel Director on November 9 1979. Gray died on August 2 1995.

85236

Pilot

British

British

64 Squadron

Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his flying training and was commissioned at the end of his course in August 1940. After converting to Spitfires at 7 OTU, Hawarden, he joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield on September 16. On December 21 1940 Gray shared in the destruction of a Do 17 over the English Channel. He was posted away to 58 OTU at Grangemouth on April 3 1941, as an instructor. Gray was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He went on to have a distinguished career as an engineer. He worked for Marconi on echo sounding depth measuring systems for ships and moved to Decca to work with aircraft navigation equipment. He died on January 21 2012.

DONALD McINTOSH GRAY PO

Pilot

Gray was born on July 10 1916. He joined the RAFVR about July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741894).

APO 1.4.39 PO 23.10.39 FO 23.10.40 FL 23.10.41 SL 1.1.43 WC 1.7.47 GC 1.1.55

83255

PO

610 Squadron PO 31.8.40 FO 24.8.41 FL 24.8.42

Gray joined the RAFVR about April 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741463). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his intermediate and advanced training at 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on No 7 Course, which ran from April 28 to July 26 1940. He was commissioned and he joined 610 Squadron at Biggin Hill on July 27. Gray was attached to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 29th and after converting to Spitfires, he rejoined 610 Squadron on August 12.

CHARLES GRAYSON 46769

KENNETH WILLIAM GRAY Pilot

British

85 Squadron

Gray, from Basford, Newcastle, joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754518). Called up on September 1, he completed his flying training and went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 1 1940, to convert to Hurricanes. Gray crashed at Aston Down on September 13, in Hurricane L 1958. He was unhurt and joined 85 Squadron at Church Fenton on the 16th. He was still with the squadron on November 7 1940. Commissioned in June 1942, he was killed on June 9 1944, aged 23, serving as a Flying Officer with 25 Squadron at Coltishall. Gray is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 206.

ALEXANDER WILLIAM VALENTINE GREEN 78082

Pilot

British

PO

Observer

British

235 Squadron

Green, of Craigavad, Co Down, joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (751683). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 4 B&GS, West Freugh, was commissioned in March 1940 and joined 235 Squadron on March 19 at North Coates.

MALCOLM GRAY Sgt

213 Squadron

PO 21.6.41 FO 1.4.42 FL 1.4.43

PO 26.6.42 FO 29.3.43

741816

British

Grayson joined 213 Squadron on March 8 1937, on its reformation at Northolt. He was with a detachment of 213 that went to Merville in France on May 17 1940. He was attached to 229 Squadron in France on May 20 but rejoined 213, then at Wittering on May 25. Over Dunkirk on May 29 he destroyed a Ju 87 and probably a He 111. On August 12 he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed SSE of the Isle of Wight. He made his last flight with 213 on October 30 1940. Promoted to Warrant Officer on April 1 1941, Grayson was commissioned in June. He was killed on July 8 1945, aged 32, as a Flight Lieutenant with 53 Squadron. Grayson was the pilot of a Liberator involved in night circuit training from St Davids, Pembrokeshire. Engine failure on take off led to the aircraft crashing on White Sands Road, near Emlych Farm. All on board were killed. A slate memorial was unveiled at the crash site in 1995, provided by the Pembrokeshire Aviation Group. Grayson is buried in Lewes Cemetery, Sussex. His name appears in the Roll of Honour of Halton apprentices who died in the Second World War, kept at St George’s Church, Halton.

PO 27.7.40

Sgt

Pilot

Grayson, of Lewes, was educated at Uckfield Grammar School. He joined the RAF in January 1929, as an Aircraft Apprentice (563128), and passed out in December 1931, as a Metal Rigger. He later applied for pilot-training and was selected. He completed his training and joined 23 Squadron at Biggin Hill in the mid-30s, as a Sergeant-Pilot.

He flew his first operational sortie on the 14th and probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 16th. He was shot down by a Bf 109 in combat over Dover on August 24. He made a crashlanding near Shepherdswell, in Spitfire X 4102, wounded, and was admitted to Waldershare Hospital. Gray was transferred to the Royal Masonic Hospital on August 28. He rejoined 610 on October 11 1940. Gray was killed in a flying accident on November 5 1940, aged 21. He is buried in Chevington Cemetery, East Chevington, Northumberland.

127525

F/Sgt

He was one of the crew of a Blenheim shot down by a Bf 109 on September 11 1940, whilst escorting FAA Albacores to attack Calais. The aircraft crashed into the sea and all three men on board were reported ‘Missing’. With Green were Pilot Officer P C WickingsSmith, pilot, and Sergeant R D H Watts, Wop/AG. Green was 21. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 8.

72 Squadron

Gray joined the RAFVR about July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He may have carried out six months continuous training with the regular RAF, as an eligible RAFVR Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, Gray was apparently fully trained and he joined 72 Squadron at Church Fenton on September 12. On June 29 1940 Gray shared in the destruction of a Do 17 100 miles E off the Isle of May in the outer Firth of Forth. On September 1 and 2 he probably destroyed Do 17s. Gray was shot down and killed on September 5. His Spitfire, N 3093, crashed into Elham Park Wood. Two brothers attempted to get into the flames to save him. Gray was 20. He is buried in Fulford Cemetery, North Yorkshire.

PO 10.3.40

CHARLES PATRICK GREEN 90134

FL

Pilot

British

92 Squadron and 421 Flight

Green was born in South Africa on March 30 1914, the son of Major Charles Green, who was killed in action in East Africa in 1917. Green was at Harrow School from 1927 to 1932 and then at Trinity College, Cambridge. He became an FRGS in 1935 and was a member of the British bobsleigh team in the 1936 Winter Olympics.

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He was in the British ski team at St Moritz in 1937 and broke a leg, skiing in the Persident’s Cup. Green learned to fly in California and joined 601 Squadron, AAF in March 1937. Called to full-time service on August 24 1939, Green was posted away from 601 on October 20 to 92 Squadron at Tangmere. Over Dunkirk on May 23 1940, he destroyed a Bf 109 but was then himself shot down, receiving a leg wound which kept him off operations until October 1 1940, when he rejoined 92, then at Biggin Hill. He was posted away on October 7, to form and command 421Flight at Hawkinge. During a spotting flight on the 12th, Green was jumped by Bf 109s. He baled out, wounded in the neck and arm, and was admitted to hospital. His Spitfire, P 7441, crashed at Coldbridge Boughton, Malherbe. Green resumed flying on November 1 1940 and he destroyed a Do 17 on November 25, got a probable Bf 109 on December 5 and shared in the probable destruction of a Do 17 on the 27th. 421 Flight was re-numbered 91 Squadron on January 11 1941. It was briefly commanded by Squadron Leader Hopcroft before Green took over on January 18 1941. Awarded the DFC (18.4.41), Green was posted away in June. He returned to operations in November 1941, joining 600 Squadron at Colerne, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. In June 1942 Green was given command of 125 Squadron. On December 26 1942 he was posted to Maison Blanche, to take command of 600 Squadron, on night-fighting operations. On May 5 1943 he probably destroyed a Ju 88. On June 25 1943 Green took 600 Squadron to Luqa in Malta, for the invasion of Sicily. On July 12/13 he destroyed a Ju 88 and a He 111, on the 13/14th another He 111 and on the 14/15th he destroyed four Ju 88s and damaged another. The squadron moved to Italy on July 25 and on August 11/12 Green destroyed a Ju 88. He was awarded the DSO (20.8.43). He got a probable He 111 on September 9/10 and destroyed a Ju 88 on January 25 1944. In February 1944 Green was promoted to Acting Group Captain and posted to command No 1 Mobile Operations Unit of the Desert Air Force. Green was awarded the Order of Patriotic War 1st Class (USSR) (11.4.44) and the DFC (US) (28.7.44). He was released in 1947, as a Group Captain. Green returned to South Africa, and he was a director of the Anglo-American Mining and Trading Corporation until his retirement in 1977. He died in Ontario, Canada in May 1999.

HERBERT EDWARD GREEN

PO (AAF) 26.3.37 FO (AAF) 6.10.38 FO 24.8.39 FL3.9.40 SL 1.12.41 WC 6.9.44

He was posted to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth on May 31 and after further training there, he rejoined 248 on June 25. Green was in Blenheim L 9453, which failed to return from a sortie over the Norwegian coast on October 20 1940, searching for another Blenheim of 248, which had been lost earlier in the day. Green, Pilot Officer S R Gane, pilot, and Sergeant N J Stocks, gunner, were reported ‘Missing’. Green was 20. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 8.

50679

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

PO 9.11.42

78263

British

FL 14.2.48

SL 1.7.62

PO

Observer

British

248 Squadron

Green joined the RAFVR in August 1939, as an Airman U/t Observer (759279). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 4 B&GS, West Freugh and joined 248 Squadron at North Coates on March 30 1940.

600 Squadron

PO 24.3.40

WILLIAM JAMES GREEN 135002

Sgt

Pilot

British

501 and 85 Squadrons

Green was born in Bristol on April 23 1917. His father was a regular soldier who had been invailided out of the Army the year before. After leaving school Green worked in packaging. He joined 501 Squadron, AAF at Bristol in December 1936, as an AC 2 u/t Fitter (Aero Engines) (813076). With the introduction of a scheme in October 1938 for the AAF to train its own NCO pilots, Green applied and was accepted.

GEORGE GRAHAM GREEN Wop/AG

FO 9.5.43 FL 20.10.45

MAURICE DAVID GREEN

During the Battle of Britain period, Green seems to have flown only three operational sorties, in the early hours of October 25/26, in the evening of October 28 and in the early hours of October 30/31, all as an Air Gunner. He flew no sorties in November 1940. No further service details traced.

Sgt

British 141 Squadron

Green applied for pilot-training and was selected in late 1937. He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot in September 1938 and did his elementary flying at 2 E&RFTS, Filton, moved on to 3 FTS, South Cerney and qualified in June 1939, with a distinguished pass. He was posted to 9 Armament Training School in June 1939, as a staff pilot. On October 7 1939 Green joined 141 Squadron, then reforming at Turnhouse, with Gladiators. The squadron re-equipped with Defiants from early 1940 and began escorting convoys in the North Sea. On July 3 Green was one of a section, which intercepted a Ju 88 near Holy Island. After a long chase the Defiants could not catch it. After the decimation of 141 Squadron on July 19 1940, it moved to Prestwick, to reform as a night-fighter unit. Its Defiants were exchanged for Beaufighters in August 1941. Green was promoted to Warrant Officer on April 1 1941 and posted to CFS, Upavon in January 1942 to take an instructor’s course. Commissioned in November 1942, Green was a QFI at various flying schools until April 1945, when he was seconded to the Air Mission to Turkey. He returned from there to England in November 1945 and was posted to No 1 FTS, Spitalgate. Green stayed on in the RAF and held various appointments at home and overseas, many concerned with photographic intelligence. For his work in this field, he was made an MBE (31.5.56). He retired from the RAF on May 1 1965, as a Squadron Leader. He died on January 22 2003.

Green joined the RAFVR about April 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. Called up on September 1, he served with 600 Squadron from November 1939 until February 1941.

902540

Pilot

Born at Edgbaston on May 6 1914, Green was educated at Oratory School, Birmingham. He was an engineering apprentice at BSA in 1932 but in November 1934 he left and joined the RAF, as an Aircrafthand (518320).

FREDERICK WILLIAM WOODRIDGE GREEN 747797

Sgt

236 Squadron He became an LAC u/t Pilot and was partly trained when he was called to full-time service on August 24 1939. Green was posted to 5 EFTS, Hanworth in October 1939, where he did 50 hours on Magisters. In March 1940 he went to 3 FTS, South Cerney for No 33 Course, which ran from March 25 to July 11 1940. He flew 110 hours on Harts, on intermediate and advanced training. Promoted to Corporal, when awarded his flying badge, he was made Sergeant at the end of the course. Green rejoined 501 Squadron, then at Middle Wallop, on July 121940. He was immediately attached to the Biggin Hill Sector Training Flight for further training, conversion to Hurricanes and an R/T course. The attachment ceased on August 20 and he was operational on the 21st. Four days later Green crashed at Hawkinge after being hit by anti aircraft guns during combat with Ju 88s and Bf 109s attacking Manston. On the 29th he was shot down by Bf 109s and baled out at 16,000 feet, falling to some 300 feet above the ground before his parachute opened properly, the cords having been severed by cannon-shell splinters.

Green joined the RAFVR in September 1939 for the duration of hostilities. He trained as a Wop/AG and he was with 236 Squadron at Filton by June 13 1940, as an Aircraftsman. He had been promoted to Sergeant by July 15. Green was still with 236 in November 1940. No further service details traced.

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The squadron left for India on March 17 and after arriving at Jessore on June 17 and acclimatising to jungle conditions, it began operations on December 5 1942. In January 1943 Greenwood went to 17 Squadron at Alipore, as a Flight Commander. He went to 151 OTU, Risalpur in April. After malaria and dengue fever, he was posted to 223 Group, Peshawar. Greenwood joined 9 (IAF) Squadron in February 1944 and in July went to a job in the War Room at 221 Group. He volunteered for Visual Control Post duties, concerning the front line direction of strike aircraft on to specific targets, in support of the Army. He did a parachute-jumping course and was attached to an airborne artillery brigade and took part in operations in Indonesia after the war against the Japanese ended. He returned to the UK in March 1946. He was Sports and Fire Officer at Tangmere until August 1946, when he joined 130 Squadron at Odiham, flying Spitfire 1Xs and Vampires. Greenwood was released from the RAF in June 1947, as a Flight Lieutenant. He later went to live in Australia. Greenwood died in Australia on December 31 2014.

Green landed near the village of Elham, wounded, and his Hurricane, P 4223, crashed near Hawkinge. On September 24 Green piloted a Hind from Kenley to Halton, with Sergeant D B Crabtree as passenger. They were to attend a Medical Board there. They returned to Kenley that evening. Crabtree was made operational next day but Green was still listed as non-effective sick on September 30. He was posted to 85 Squadron at Church Fenton on October 14 but he made no operational sorties up to the end of the month. He was posted to 504 Squadron at Filton in November 1940. He went to 4 FIS, Cambridge in March 1941 for a course, after which he instructed at 10 EFTS, Locking and 3 EFTS, Shellingford. Green was commissioned from Warrant Officer in October 1942. He was posted to 5 FTS, Cranwell in June 1943, to instruct on Masters, and in November he went to 39 OTU, Tealing on Spitfires. From March 1944 he was at 1682 DTD, Enstone on Tomahawks. In preparation for a return to operations, Green went to 3 TEU, Aston Down in October, for conversion to Typhoons, went on to Tempests at Thorney Island and then joined 56 Squadron at Volkel in November. Green was shot down in February 1945 and was a PoW until May. Posted back to instruct at Shellingford, he was released from the RAF in November 1945. He joined the RAFVR in June 1947 and instructed at 6 RFS, Sywell until July 1953. In civilian life Green worked again in packaging and became a major figure in the industry.

APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.5.42

ALBERT EDWARD GREGORY 133005

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

219 Squadron

Born in Derby on May 9 1917, Gregory joined the RAFVR there in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (747888). Called up on September 1, he was posted to Aldergrove in October for an air gunnery course.

PO 30.10.42 FO 30.4.43 FL 30.10.44

HENRY la FONE GREENSHIELDS Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

Pilot British

266 Squadron

In December Gregory joined 141 Squadron at Grangemouth, to fly in Blenheims. When 141 began to convert to Defiants in April 1940, he was too tall for the turret. He joined 219 Squadron. With the advent of radar-equipped Beaufighters from September 1940, Gregory retrained as a Radio Observer. He assisted in the destruction of a He 111 in March 1941. In May he went to No 2 Radio School at Yatesbury for a wireless operator’s course. Gregory joined 23 Squadron at Ford in December 1941. He flew from Tangmere in Boston IIIs on intruder patrols over France, Belgium and Holland, bombing and strafing airfields, marshalling yards and other targets. On April 2 1942 he damaged two Do 17s. In July 1942 Gregory went on a Gunnery Leaders’ course at CGS, Sutton Bridge, which he completed in August and he was then commissioned. He did not rejoin 23 Squadron but went to 605 Squadron at Ford, again on intruder duties. He was posted away to 275 (ASR) Squadron at Valley in March 1943 and was awarded the DFC (13.7.43). Gregory later served with 278 (ASR) Squadron and was released from the RAF in November 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. He rejoined in July 1947, did radio refresher and jumping courses and in February 1948 he was posted to 52 Squadron at Changi, Singapore. The squadron was engaged in antiterrorist operations, supporting the Army in Malaya. In late 1950 Gregory returned to the UK and became a signals instructor. He retired from the RAF in May 1955. He died on November 12 2010.

Greenshields, of Axminster, Devon, was born in 1918. He was turned down by the RAF because of defective eyesight, joined the RNVR and was called to full-time service in September 1939. Greenshields was attached to the RAF and sent to 7 OTU, Hawarden on June 17 1940. He converted to Spifires, joining 266 Squadron at Wittering on July 1. He probably destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged two others on August 12 and destroyed a Bf 109 SE of Dover on the 15th. Next day he failed to return from a combat with Bf 109s that he had pursued out over the Channel. He was shot down and killed by Leutnant Müller-Duhe of JG 26. His Spitfire, N 3240, crashed in the suburbs of Calais. Greenshields was 22 and is buried in the Calais Southern Cemetery. In October 1996 a commemorative tablet to him was placed in the village church at Hawkchurch, Devon. Sub-Lt 20.9.39

JOHN PETER BOWTELL GREENWOOD 41920

PO

Pilot

British

253 Squadron PO 31.8.42 FO 3.3.43 FL 3.9.44 FL 2.7.47

Greenwood was born in Stratford, East London on April 3 1921. He was educated at Tiffin’s School, Kingston-onThames.

ALFRED HENRY GREGORY 758172

He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on February 6 1939, as a pupil pilot at 11 E&RFTS, Perth. On April 15 he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, for an induction course. In late April he moved to 2 FTS, Brize Norton for his intermediate and advanced training and with this completed on October 30 1939, he joined 253 Squadron, then being reformed at Manston. In February 1940 the squadron began to receive Hurricanes. On May 16 ‘A’ Flight was sent to France, based at Lille. ‘B’ Flight flew daily from Kenley and operated from French airfields from May 17 to 23. The squadron re-assembled at Kirton-in-Lindsey when ‘A’ Flight was withdrawn from France on May 24, having suffered heavy losses. Greenwood probably destroyed a Do 17 on May 18, a Bf 109 on the 19th and probably destroyed a Bf 109 in the Merville area on the 23rd. On August 30 Greenwood destroyed a He 111, which had been attacking Farnborough. On the 31st and September 1 he probably destroyed two Do 17s. On November 23 1940 Greenwood got a probable Bf 109 and on December 5 he damaged another. He was posted away to 5 FTS, Sealand on December 9 1940, as an instructor. In February 1941 he went to Turnhouse, where 59 OTU was being formed. The OTU moved in March to Crosby-on-Eden. Greenwood volunteered for MSFU and joined the unit at Speke on May 20 1941 and boarded the Empire Flame on June 18. He was posted to 55 OTU, Usworth in November and went to 615 Squadron at Fairwood Common in February 1942.

Sgt

Pilot

British

111 Squadron

Gregory, of Hulland, Derbyshire, joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1, carried out his elementary training at 6 EFTS, Sywell and his intermediate and advanced training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 21 Course, which ran from June 10 to September 7 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 11. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 111 Squadron at Drem on the 29th. Gregory was killed on July 23 1941, aged 24 and he was still with 111 Squadron. He is buried in Christ Church churchyard, Hulland.

FELIX STAFFORD GREGORY 81044

PO

Pilot

British

65 Squadron

Gregory joined the RAFVR about July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741878). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his flying training, was commissioned on June 16 1940 and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 23rd, where he converted to Spitfires. He joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on July 6 1940. He damaged two Bf 109s on August 12. Gregory was killed on the 13th when he baled out too low during a night-flying practice, reason unknown. His Spitfire, R 6766, crashed at Eastry, Kent. Gregory was 21. He was cremated at Enfield Crematorium, Middlesex. PO 16.6.40

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WILLIAM JAMES GREGORY

KENNETH GASTON GRESTY

115577

552727

Sgt

Observer

British

29 Squadron

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

219 Squadron

Gregory was born in West Hartlepool on November 23 1913 and educated at the Lister Sealy School. Before the war he was the drummer in the Debroy Summers orchestra, earning himself a lasting nickname ‘Sticks’.

Gresty, of Handforth, Cheshire, joined the RAF, as a Boy Entrant, on September 27 1938. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and after completing his training, he was with 219 Squadron by June 1940.

He joined the RAFVR in April 1938 as an Airman u/t Observer (751013) and did his training at 32 E&RFTS, Greatham. Called up on September 1 1939, Gregory was posted to Prestwick in November to continue training and then to 9 B&GS, Penrhos for a gunnery course, to complete it. For a short time in May 1940 he was with No 4 Continental Ferry Pool at Pengam Moor, Cardiff, ferrying aircraft to squadrons in France and the UK. On May 25 Gregory was posted to 29 Squadron at Debden. In the early hours of August 18 Gregory was flying with Pilot Officer R A Rhodes when they shot down a He 111 into the sea off Spurn Head. In June 1941 Gregory, now retrained as a Navigator Radar, teamed up with Flying Officer J R D Braham. It was the start of a long and very successful partnership. During the night of June 23/24 1941 they probably destroyed a He 111, on July 6/7 they shot down a Ju 88, on September 12/13 a He 111, on the 28/29th they damaged a He 111, on October 19/20 they destroyed a Do 17 and on the 24/25th another He 111. Gregory was awarded the DFM (17.10.41) and at the end of his operational tour in December 1941 he was posted to 51 OTU, Cranfield as an instructor, as also was Braham. Commissioned in January 1942, Gregory revisited 29 Squadron in early June 1942 with Braham and during the night of the 6/7th they shot down a Do 217 into the sea off Sandwich. Later in the month they rejoined the squadron, then at West Malling. Gregory was awarded the DFC (4.8.42). He and Braham destroyed a Do 217 during the night of August 9/10, damaged a Do 217 in daylight on October 19 and destroyed a Do 217 on October 31/November 1. In early January 1943 Braham was given command of 141 Squadron at Ford and Gregory went with him. During the night of January 20/21 they destroyed a Do 217, on June 14/15 a Bf 110, on the 16/17th they damaged a Ju 88 and on the 24/25th they destroyed another Bf 110. Gregory was awarded a Bar to the DFC (16.7.43) and rested, taking a staff appointment at HQ ADGB. In February 1944 he was posted to 2 Group, to assist Braham in the work of nightinterdiction. Whilst there, they flew occasional sorties in Mosquitos of 613 Squadron. On March 5 they destroyed a He 177 on a daylight intruder operation, on the 24th they shot down a Ju 52 and a Ju W-34 S of Aalborg, on April 4 they destroyed a BU 131 over France and on the 13th a He 111 and a FW 58 in a Mosquito of 305 Squadron. On May 12 they went on an intruder flight to Denmark in a Mosquito of 107 Squadron and destroyed a FW 190 near Aalborg, the team’s last victory. On the way back, damaged and out of fuel, they crash-landed on the sea and were picked up by a Royal Navy trawler. Gregory rejoined 141 Squadron at West Raynham, as Squadron Navigation Officer, on July 18 1944 and on September 9 he was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader and made Station Navigation Officer. He was awarded the DSO (17.7.45) and posted to HQ 12 Group in September. Granted a Permanent Commission in 1947, Gregory held a number of appointments at home and overseas before his retirement on June 1 1964, as a Wing Commander. In July 1964 he became a partner in a firm of estate agents at Bexhill on-Sea, Sussex and did this work until his final retirement. Gregory died on September 28 2001.

His last sortie with 219 was made on July 22 1940. Gresty was probably posted away, when 219 went over to Beaufighters. Gresty joined 105 Squadron at Watton and flew his first sortie with it on September 20 1940. He was lost on April 17 1941, serving as a Sergeant with 105, then flying in Blenheims from Swanton Morley. Gresty was 19. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 19.

REGINALD HENRY GRETTON 754187

Air Gunner

British

British

266 and 222 Squadrons

He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 21, converted to Spitfires and then joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on June 12. He moved to 222 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 12. During a patrol over Maidstone on September 27, Gretton was jumped by Bf 109s and shot down. He crashed near Winnington, Rainham, Essex in Spitfire R 6720, seriously wounded in the back. He was admitted to Oldchurch Hospital and spent the next five months recovering from a fractured pelvis and spine. In June 1941 Gretton was posted to the ADF at Hendon and in September he went to 58 OTU, as an instructor. He returned to operations in November, joining 91 Squadron at Hawkinge. He was posted away in February 1942, for further treatment and rehabilitation. In April 1942 Gretton rejoined the ADF, then at Croydon, and stayed with it until June 1945. He spent his final six monthe at the air-to ground firing ranges at Bulmer and Kirton Marsh and was released from the RAF in Birmingham in January 1946, as a Warrant Officer.

DORIAN GEORGE GRIBBLE 40695

FO

Pilot

British

54 Squadron

Born in Hendon on June 18 1919, Gribble joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 7 1938, as a pupil pilot. He obtained his pilot’s license on April 19. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on May 7 for a short induction course and on the 19th he went to 11 FTS, Shawbury, for his intermediate and advanced training. Gribble joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on December 17 1938. It was then equipped with Gladiators but was soon to receive Spitfires. Still with 54, Gribble claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on a patrol over France on May 24 1940. The next day his aircraft was damaged in combat and he landed on a beach near Dunkirk. Carrying his radio, which he considered was too secret to fall into enemy hands, he returned to England by ship and rejoined his squadron. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on July 26 1940. On July 24 he claimed two Bf 109s probably destroyed, on August 15 he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged a Ju 87 and a Do 17, on the 16th he damaged a Bf 109, on the 18th he destroyed another Bf 109, shared a Bf 110 and damaged a Bf 110 and two He 111s. Gribble got a probable Bf 109 on the 22nd, destroyed another and damaged a Bf 110 on the 24th, shot down two Bf 109s on the 28th and shared another on the 31st. He was awarded the DFC (13.8.40) and probably destroyed a Bf 109 on September 2. Next day the squadron moved to Catterick for a rest. Gribble damaged a Ju 88 on October 27 over the Cleveland Hills and he damaged a He 111 on November 6 SE of Catterick. When 54 returned to Hornchurch in February 1941, Gribble was the only original member. On June 4 1941 the Hornchurch Wing carried out a sweep in the Calais/Dunkirk/Boulogne area. Gribble led his section to attack two Bf 109s and appeared to sustain damage to his engine in the engagement. He lost height and at something less

HORACE EUSTACE GRELLIS PO

Pilot

Gretton joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he was posted for an ab initio course to 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury, followed by intermediate and advanced training at 3 FTS, South Cerney, on No 31 Course, which ran from November 1939 to May 21 1940.

PO 22.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 22.1.44 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.1.52 WC 1.1.59

82501

Sgt

23 Squadron

Grellis joined the RAF in September 1921, as an Aircraft Apprentice (362113), and passed out in August 1924. He was in India in the late 1920s and received a Mention in Despatches (26.6.31) for operations on the North-West Frontier during the period April 23 to September 12 1930. He was then an LAC but in 1931 he was promoted to Corporal. Some time in the latter part of the 1930s Grellis completed his twelve-year engagement and at the age of 30, he went on to the RAF Class ‘E’ Reserve for four years, as a Corporal. Recalled at the outbreak of war, Grellis remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. He completed his training, was commissioned and had joined 23 Squadron at Collyweston by June 1940. He was still with the squadron in November 1940. No further service details have been traced. Grellis was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on March 7 1950. PO 17.1.40 FO 17.1.41 FL 17.1.42

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than 1500 feet he baled out and was seen to fall into the sea. ASR launches made a long search of the area but found no trace. Gribble is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 29.

1945, a Controller at 11 Group until February 1946 and a Staff Officer at HQ Fighter Command until he retired in April 1947, as a Wing Commander. He was made an MBE (1.1.46). Grice died on March 24 1998.

APO 7.5.38 PO 7.3.39 FO 3.9.40

APO 19.2.38 PO 29.11.38

DENNIS NEVE GRICE

ROBERT VICTOR GRIDLEY

70266

FO

Pilot

British

600 Squadron

46124

235 Squadron

Called up on September 25 1939, Grice went to 5 FTS, Sealand for No 44 Course, from November 6 1939 to May 20 1940. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 22, converted to Blenheims, and joined 600 Squadron at Northolt on July 9. He was detached to 2 School of Army Co-operation, Andover on July 11, for night flying training, rejoining 600 at Manston on July 16. Grice was captain of Blenheim L 8665, shot down in flames on August 8 1940 by Oberleutnant Sprick

He flew his first operational sortie with 235 on August 10 1940, an escort to destroyers, and his second, and last, sortie, escorting naval units on the 16th, after which he rejoined 22 Squadron. Commissioned in June 1941, Gridley was then with 69 Squadron in Malta. On January 13 1942 he was a member of the crew of Maryland AH 721, captained by Wing Commander J Dowland, on a reconnaissance sortie to the Pantelleria/Cape Bon/Kerkenal Island area. On the way home, just off Tigne Point, the aircraft was attacked and damaged by two Bf 109s, one of which Gridley certainly damaged, firing from a turret. Dowland got the aircraft back over Malta and ordered the crew to bale out but only the observer was able to do so. Dowland ditched just off shore and the aircraft sank immediately. A watching soldier, Gunner W Izett, dived into the sea, searching in vain for twenty minutes before being dragged out, exhausted. Dowland’s body was later recovered but Gridley’s was never found. He left a young widow, a Maltese girl, who gave birth to a son very soon after his death. Gridley is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 3, Column 1.

DOUGLAS HAMILTON GRICE Pilot

British

Gridley joined the RAF in April 1939, as an Aircrafthand (640154). He later trained as a Wop/AG. He was with 22 Squadron in May 1940 and went to 235 Squadron on August 3, possibly on attachment.

PO (RAFO) 17.3.31 FO (RAFO) 17.9.32 FO (RAFVR) 7.6.39 FO 25.9.39

FO

Wop/AG

SL 1.7.43

Grice, of Ealing, West London was commissioned in the RAFO in 1931. Granted an extension to his commission in 1936, he relinquished it on June 7 1939 on being granted a five-year commission in the RAFVR.

of III/JG 26. He stayed at the controls of his burning aircraft, guiding it clear of Ramsgate before crashing into the sea. He and the two members of his crew, Sergeant F J Keast, gunner, and AC 1 J B W Warren, radar operator, were all killed. Grice was 28. He was cremated at Charing Crematorium, Kent. A memorial to Grice and his crew was unveiled in Ramsgate in 2006. It includes the words, “The townspeople of Ramsgate will remember forever their supreme sacrifice in averting a greater disaster.”

40534

Sgt

FO 26.9.40 FL 16.6.41

British

PO 4.6.41

32 Squadron and 421 Flight

THOMAS GRIER

Grice was born on June 15 1919 in Wallasey Village, Cheshire. He was in the Artists Rifles (TA) before he joined the RAF on a short service commission.

40907

FO

Pilot

British

601 Squadron

Grier was born in Glasgow in 1918. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 16 1938, as a pupil pilot.

He began his ab initio flying at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley on November 29 1937, as a pupil pilot. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge for a short induction course on February 19 1938. Grice was at 5 FTS, Sealand for intermediate and advanced training on March 3 1938. With this completed, he was posted to 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on September 17 1938. Grice was detached from 32 to RAF Northolt, for an Air Fighting Instructor’s course on October 23 1939, rejoining 32 on November 1. During the Battle of France the squadron used Abbeville as a forward base from May 18 1940. On that day Grice probably destroyed a Bf 110, on the 19th he destroyed a Bf 109, probably another and damaged a third and on the 22nd he destroyed another. He was shot down by return fire from He 111s on June 8. He glided 15 miles and landed near a small village 10 miles from Rouen. Finding no one in the village, he returned to his aircraft and met some British soldiers, who drove him to Rouen. With another RAF pilot, he was given a car and driver and they drove from aerodrome to aerodrome until in a few days they had travelled 400 miles across France. At Dreux, HQ of the Expeditionary Air Force, they were put into a DH Rapide, which was going to Hendon. On reaching Le Havre, the aircraft was diverted to Jersey, from where they flew on next day to Hendon. Grice rejoined his squadron on June 11. Awarded the DFC (25.6.40), he was decorated by the King on June 27 at Biggin Hill. On July 4 Grice was shot down by Bf 109s and made a forced-landing at Manston. On the 8th he claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed and on August 12 he damaged a Do 17. On the afternoon of the 15th Grice was shot down east of Harwich in flames, having been attacked from behind as the squadron was about to engage hostile aircraft. Tracer bullets smashed the instrument panel and passed into the gravity tank. Grice was using oxygen which ignited, blowing off his goggles and burning his face and both wrists. The gravity tank exploded. He baled out, landed in the sea, had difficulty freeing himself and was almost drowned. He was rescued by an MTB, landed at Fexlixstowe and admitted to the Royal Naval Hospital at Shotley. His Hurricane, N 2459, crashed into the sea at Pye Sands, Pennyhole Bay, S of Harwich. On October 14 1940 Grice reported to Biggin Hill, for posting to 421 Flight. With 421 he flew a W/T test on the 14th, in Hurricane Z 2327, and on the 15th he flew a spotting patrol, in Hurricane Z 2352. These were his only flights with 421 and he took up duty as a Controller at Biggin Hill very soon afterwards. Grice was a Controller at Northolt from June 1941 until February 1942, Senior Controller at North Weald until December 1943, Senior Controller at Tangmere until August

With training completed, he joined ‘V’ Flight, No 1 AACU at Cleave. From there, he was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 26 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 601 Squadron at Tangmere in June. On July 7 Grier claimed a share in a Do 17, on the 16th he shared a probable Ju 88, on the 20th he shared a He 59 and damaged a Do 17, on August 13 he probably destroyed two BF 110s, got a probable Ju 88 and shared another, on the 18th destroyed two Ju 87s, on the 30th he shared a He 111, on the 31st he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed, on September 6 two Bf 109s and on the 25th a Ju 88 destroyed. Grier was awarded the DFC (1.10.40). On October 9 he damaged a He 111. In October 1941 Grier was given command of 32 Squadron at Angle. He was killed on December 5 when he was shot down during a joint-operation with 607 Squadron off Le Havre. Grier is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 28. APO 9.7.38 PO 16.5.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

JOHN JAMES GRIFFIN 742304

Sgt

Pilot

British

73 Squadron

Griffin, of Twickenham, Middlesex, joined the RAFVR about November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and in early May 1940 he was with 4 B&GS, as a staff pilot. On May 18 Griffin was attached to 4 (C) Ferry Pilot Pool and on the 29th the attachment ceased and he was posted to the AASF in France, joining 73 Squadron at Gaye on May 31. The squadron was withdrawn to Church Fenton on June 18. Griffin claimed a Ju 88 destroyed on August 15. In an action over Maidstone on September 14, Griffin was shot down and baled out. He was admitted to West Kent Hospital, with a dislocated shoulder and minor wounds to the legs. His Hurricane crashed at Clapper Lane, Staplehurst. He had not rejoined 73 Squadron before it left for the Middle East on November 11 1940.

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At some time Grogan must have volunteered for aircrew and remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and completed his training. He was commissioned in January 1940 and joined 23 Squadron at Wittering in February. He was detached from 23 to CGS, Warmwell on May 15 1940, for a Gunnery Leaders’ course, rejoining 23 in mid-June. Grogan served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain and was posted away in March 1941. He stayed on in the RAF and retired on November 1 1956, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1983.

A Sergeant Griffin, initials unknown, joined 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on December 5 1940 but was then posted away for overseas service ten days later. The fact that he was later with 261 Squadron seems to suggest he may have served in Malta at some time. He was with 261 Squadron, when it arrived at China Bay, Ceylon on March 6 1942, from Dum Dum, in India. Griffin must have joined 273 Squadron soon after arrival and he was killed on April 7 1942, as a Warrant Officer with 273, also based at China Bay. He was 32 and is buried in Trincomalee War Cemetery, Sri Lanka.

CEDRIC GWYN GRIFFITH 157079

Sgt

Pilot

British

32 Squadron

PO 17.1.40 FO 17.1.41 FL 17.1.42 SL 1.8.47

Griffith joined the RAFVR in mid-August 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754960). Called up on September 1, he completed his flying training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 23 1940.

BERNARD GROSZEWSKI P 0544

GLYN GRIFFITHS Pilot

British

Polish

43 Squadron

He joined 307 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey from the RAF Polish Depot on September 10. He went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum on October 9, for a testing and grading course. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 17th and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 43 Squadron at Usworth on October 25 1940. He was posted to 315 Squadron at Acklington at its formation on January 21 1941. He rejoined 43 Squadron from 315 on February 21 1941. He went to 61 OTU, Heston on September 8 1941, as an instructor, but moved to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on the 29th. Groszewski returned to 315 Squadron, then at Northolt, on November 2 1941. The squadron was flying high cover near the French coast on December 12. Groszewski, in Spitfire BL 323, was shot down near Le Touquet and Berck. He was seen in the water but drowned before help arrived. His body was washed up on the beach and he is buried in Boulogne-sur-Mer Cemetery. Groszewski was awarded the KW (20.8.42).

PO 6.43 FO ? FL 29.6.45

Sgt

Pilot

Born on October 9 1909, Groszewski was in the PAF before the war. In September 1939 he was commanding 162 Eskadra of III/6 Fighter Dyon at Lodz. He arrived in England in 1940.

After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 32 Squadron at Acklington on October 3. He flew six operational sorties before the end of the month and is not mentioned again in the ORB after October 25. Griffith was posted to 73 Squadron on November 5 1940, at which time it was preparing to depart to the Middle East. On November 9 the squadron moved from Debden to Birkenhead, where it embarked on the carrier HMS Furious on the 13th. Griffith was commissioned in June 1943. He was promoted to Flight Lieutenant on June 29 1945. No other service details traced. An entry in the London Gazette records that with effect from March 7 1944 his name was Cedric Gwynne Griffith.

135394

FO

17 Squadron

Born in 1918 in Llandudno, Griffiths joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 25 1938, as a pupil pilot. This commission was terminated on August 22 1939. Griffiths joined the RAFVR in early April 1940, as an Airman Pilot (991242). He arrived at 5 OTU on the 7th for a refresher course and assessment and left on May 6. He went to 6 OTU on the 18th and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 17 Squadron at Kenley on May 25. From June 5 the squadron was operating in France, using Dinard and Le Mans as bases. Griffiths damaged a Bf 109 on the 7th. The squadron was withdrawn on the 17th, reaching Tangmere on the 19th, via

FO 1.3.41

HARRY CYRIL GROVE 580202

Sgt

Pilot

British

3 and 501 Squadrons

Grove, of Herne Hill, London, joined the RAF in 1936, as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot. He began his elementary flying training on June 8, as a pupil pilot.

Jersey. On July 9 Griffiths shared in the destruction of a He 111, on the 12th he shot down a He 111 and shared another and on August 11 he shared a Bf 110. He was attached to 601 Squadron at Debden on August 25 and 26 and flew two operational sorties whilst there. On September 5 he got a probable He 111, on the 19th shared a Ju 88 and on the 27th destroyed two Bf 109s and probably destroyed a Bf 110. Griffiths damaged a Do 17 on October 27, shot down a Bf 109 on the 30th and destroyed two Ju 87s and shared another on November 8. He was awarded the DFM (26.11.40). On December 28 1940 Griffiths was posted away from 17 Squadron to CFS, Upavon, for an instructors’ course. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in April 1942, he later went to Canada, to instruct. After his return to the UK, he flew in 1944 with 4 Squadron, an Army Co-operation unit. When returning from a sortie over France, his No 2 collided with him over their base at Odiham. Griffiths was badly burned before he baled out and he had not recovered from his injuries before the war ended. Released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant, he died in 1983.

He completed this and was formally enlisted in the RAF on August 4 1936. Pre-war service details are not known. Grove went to France on April 16 1940, with 98 Squadron, flying Fairey Battles. He had moved to 226 Squadron by May 13. The squadron withdrew from Brest on June 16 and went to Thirsk. Grove volunteered for and was posted to Fighter Command. He joined 3 Squadron at Wick on August 18 1940. He moved to 501 Squadron at Kenley on September 29. In an action near Sevenoaks on November 8 1940, Grove was shot down and killed, in Hurricane V 6805, which crashed and burned out at Pound Farm, Blackham. He was 29. He is buried in St Luke’s churchyard, Whyteleafe, Surrey.

ERNEST GEORGE GRUBB 123639

Sgt

Pilot

British

219 Squadron

APO 17.9.38 PO 4.4.42 FO 4.10.42 FL 4.4.44 Born in Dalston, London on March 30 1915, Grubb was educated at Owens School, Islington. He became a Chartered Surveyor and joined the RAFVR on April 10 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740128).

GEORGE JACQUES GROGAN 42972

PO

Air Gunner

Irish

23 Squadron Called up on September 1 1939, he went to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on No 14 Course, which ran from October 9 to Deccember 9 1939, for advanced training only. With training completed, Grubb joined 219 Squadron at Tangmere on December 17. He served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. On December 8 1940 he was detached to Debden for a short AI Course. Grubb was posted away to 51 OTU, Cranfield in late August 1941, as an instructor. Promoted to Warrant Officer in October 1941, Grubb was commissioned in May 1942.

Born on October 24 1909, Grogan joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice (560970), in September 1926. He passed out in August 1929. As an LAC, he served overseas in the 1930s and held the General Service Medal, with the Bar for Northern Kurdistan and the India General Service Medal, with the Bar for NorthWest Frontier 1935. He ended his engagement on October 24 1939.

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He arrived in England in June 1940 and went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. Grzeszczak joined 303 Squadron at Northolt on August 21 1940. He claimed a He 111 destroyed on September 26 and destroyed a Bf 109 on the 27th. He was awarded the KW (1.2.41). Grzeszczak was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on April 21 1941, as an instructor. On August 28 he was instructing a pupil in a simulated dogfight in a Master. They made a sudden avoiding action at 1500 feet and went into a long dive. The aircraft crashed at Polmont, near Grangemouth. Both men were killed. Grzeszczak is buried in Northwood Cemetery, Middlesex.

He was posted to 29 Squadron at West Malling in September. He went to 287 Squadron at Croydon in January 1943, an anti-aircraft co-operation unit. In early 1944 Grubb went overseas with 5 Ferry Unit to the Middle East, returned to the UK in September 1945 and was released from the RAF in October, as a Flight Lieutenant. He was the twin brother of H F Grubb and they were together throughout their RAF service, something of a record. Grubb was in the RAFVR from September 1948 until May 1953. He died on September 8 1977. PO 25.5.42 FO 25.11.42 FL 25.5.44 FO (RAFVR) 27.9.48

CHARLES PAUL GUERIN HENRY FRANK GRUBB 123640

Sgt

Pilot

30526

British

Pilot

French

232 Squadron

Guerin was born in Paris on August 19 1916. He was in l’Armée de l’Air at the outbreak of war. After call-up, he went on a refresher course and there met René Mouchotte.

Born in Dalston, London on March 30 1915, Grubb was educated at Owens School, Islington. He became a Chartered Surveyor and joined the RAFVR on July 3 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740405).

They were posted as instructors to North Africa. In June 1940 they were on a course at the Fighter School at Oran. On June 22 when the Armistice was signed, Guerin and Mouchotte decided to go to England. With four other pilots, they flew to Gibraltar on June 30 and sailed for England on July 3 in the armed trawler President Houduce. By the 25th they were at RAF St Athan, where 4 S of TT was being used as a depot for the French. Guerin was one of eleven French pilots, who were posted to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum on July 29, for testing and grading. They moved to Odiham on August 10, for further training with No 1 Fighter Training Squadron, Free French Air Force, flying about 15 hours on Tiger Moths and Hectors. On August 18 Guerin went to 5 OTU and after converting to Hurricanes, he went to RAF Castletown on September 17, to join 232 Squadron, which arrived there next day. Guerin was posted to 615 Squadron at Kenley on December 17 1940. He was lost on May 3 1941, whilst on a convoy patrol. He had a glycol leak and his engine seized. Instead of baling out, Guerin decided to ditch on the sea near to the convoy. At 50 feet the Hurricane suddenly lurched to the right, hit the sea, turned over and disappeared. Guerin was not seen again. He received a posthumous Mention in Despatches.

Called up on September 1 1939, he went to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on No 14 Course, which ran from October 9 to December 9 1939, for advanced training only. With training completed, Grubb joined 219 Squadron at Tangmere on December 17. He served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain and on November 22 1940 he destroyed an unidentified enemy aircraft off Beachy Head during a night patrol. Grubb was posted away to 51 OTU, Cranfield in late August 1941, as an instructor. Promoted to Warrant Officer in October 1941, Grubb was commissioned in May 1942. He was posted to 29 Squadron at West Malling in September. He went to 287 Squadron at Croydon in January 1943, an anti-aircraft co-operation unit. In early 1944 Grubb went overseas with 5 Ferry Unit to the Middle East, returned to the UK in September 1945 and was released from the RAF in October, as a Flight Lieutenant. He was the twin brother of E G Grubb and they were together throughout their RAF service, something of a record. Grubb died in 1981. PO 25.5.42 FO 25.11.42

Adjudant

219 Squadron

FL 25.5.44

THOMAS FRANCIS GUEST 42985

PO

Pilot

British

79 and 56 Squadrons

FRANCISZEK GRUSZKA 76785

FO

Pilot

Polish

65 Squadron

Guest was born in 1918 and was commissioned as 2nd Lieutenant in the 4th Battalion The Gloucester Regiment (TA) on December 2 1936.On November 1 1938 the battalion received the sub-title (66th Searchlight Regiment) on conversion to the searchlight role.

Gruszka was born on January 21 1910 into a wealthy family. He served in the Polish Army and graduated from the Polish Air Force Academy, becoming a pilot instructor. Having escaped from Poland to France, he arrived in England in early 1940 and was commissioned in the RAFVR in March. He went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool on June 1 1940.

Guest was seconded to the RAF on March 7 1940 and commissioned. Seconded Army officers were intended for Army co-operation duties. He was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose for No 19 Course, which ran from May 6 to August 12 1940. With that completed, Guest went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum for No 14 Course, due to end on September 7. However he was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 2 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 79 Squadron at Biggin Hill on September 17. He moved to 56 Squadron at Boscombe Down on October 15. Guest claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on November 6 1940 and on the 23rd he collided with Sergeant W Szafraniec of 56 during a formation practice near Middle Wallop. Guest landed unhurt but the other pilot was killed. On April 26 1941, Guest still with 56 Squadron, was shot down by JG 51 over the French coast and captured by the Germans. At some time he was held in Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan and Belaria (PoW No 578). He was ‘Head Tailor’ at the camps, providing German military uniforms and civilian clothes for various escape enterprises, including the Great Escape in 1943. Guest was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant.

He was at 15 EFTS, Redhill in early July, for testing and grading, after which he arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 15. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 7 1940. Gruszka probably destroyed a Bf 109 off Deal on August 16. He was killed on the 18th, when his Spitfire, R 6713, crashed at Westbere, near Canterbury, during a flight patrol. He is believed to have destroyed a Bf 109 on this day, which was never claimed. The site of the crash was excavated in 1976 and Gruszka’s remains were still in the cockpit. Originally remembered only on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt, Gruszka is now buried in Northwood Cemetery, Middlesex.

PO 7.3.40 FO 7.3.41 FL 7.3.42

KENNETH CRADOCK GUNDRY BOGDAN GRZESZCZAK P 1391

FO

Pilot

Polish

81371

PO

Pilot

British

257 Squadro

303 Squadron Gundry joined the RAFVR about November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742586). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 46 Course, from February 1 to June 26 1940.

Born on August 10 1908, he was in the Polish Air Force and was on the staff of Dyon III/I in 1939. In August 1939 he had been sent to France to test fly a number of Morane MS 406s, which had been purchased by the Polish Air Force.

He was commissioned and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 6 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 257 Squadron at Northolt on August 3. He destroyed a Bf 109 on the 8th, damaged a Bf 110 on the 31st and damaged a Bf 109 on September 3.

After the German invasion of Poland on September 1 1939 Grzeszczak remained in France and at some time he flew with l’Armee de l’Air.

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Gundry was slightly wounded in legs and thigh by shell splinters on October 12 and made a forced-landing at Detling in Hurricane R 4195, with damage sustained in combat over Deal. He joined 312 Squadron at Speke from 257 on December 10 1940. Gundry was killed on May 22 1942, as a Flying Officer with 112 Squadron, then based at Gambut in Egypt. He was 25 and is remembered on the Alamein Memorial, Panel 248.

JOHN VINTER GURTEEN

PO 6.7.40 FO 6.7.41

He joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745554). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 45 Course, from early December 1939 to June 10 1940. He joined 504 Squadron at Castletown on June 18 1940, the day he was commissioned. Gurteen was shot down and killed in combat over the southern outskirts of London on September 15 1940. His Hurricane, N 2481, dived at full throttle on to a house at Hartley, near Longfield. He was 24. He was cremated at Hendon Crematorium and his ashes were scattered over his house by Flight Lieutenant W B Royce of 504.

81918

PO

Pilot

British

74 Squadron

Gunn was born in Devonport on May 7 1913. He went to Watford Grammar School. Gunn joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice (563447), on August 27 1929 and passed out on August 19 1932 as a Fitter, Aero Engines. He later applied for pilot-training and was selected. With flying training completed, Gunn joined 111 Squadron at Northolt on August 31 1937, as a Sergeant. On January 13 1940 Gunn shared in the destruction of a He 111 near Farne Island. Gunn was presented to the King when HM visited 111 Squadron at Drem in February 1940. In early April Gunn was commissioned from Sergeant and on the 8th he joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch. On April 21 1940 Gunn flew on a training exercise. There is no further mention of him in the 74 ORB until July 15 1940, when he rejoined 74 from RAF Uxbridge, on his ceasing to be non-effective sick. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on July 28 and was himself shot down into the Channel off Folkestone on the 31st in Spitfire P 9379, possibly by Oberleutnant Fözö of 4/JG 51. Gunn was 27. His body was recovered by the Germans and he is buried in Ostende New Communal Cemetery, Belgium.

Pilot

British

Lieutenant (FAA)

46 Squadron

Sub-Lt 11.3.40

133533

Lt 9.9.40

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

604 Squadron

Born in Plumstead, London in 1916, Guthrie enlisted in 604 Squadron AAF before the War (804307). He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939 and was serving with 604 in June 1940, as an Air Gunner. He flew his first two operational sorties on August 3 1940, and the third on August 11. Guthrie later retrained as a radar operator. In December 1940 he teamed up with Flying Officer E D Crew. On the night of April 4/5 1941 they destroyed a He 111, on the 8th damaged another, on the 24/25 destroyed a He 111 and on the 28/29 another. During the night of May 8/9 1941 they damaged a He 111and on July 7/8 they destroyed a Ju 88 and a He 111 over Southampton. Guthrie was awarded the DFM (24.6.41). He was posted away from 604 in July. Promoted to Warrant Officer on March 1 1942, Guthrie was commissioned in September 1942 and released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on February 17 1981.

EDWARD MAURICE GUNTER British

808 Squadron

NORMAN HENRY GUTHRIE

PO 1.4.40

Pilot

British

Guthrie joined the Fleet Air Arm in 1939 and joined 808 Squadron at Wick on September 9 1940, flying Fulmars on dockyard defence. He embarked with 808 in the carrier HMS Ark Royal on October 22 1940 and took part in operations in the Mediterranean in 1941, including Operation Tiger on May 8. On July 23 1941 Guthrie shared in the destruction of a SM 79, on the 25th he shared a Cant Z 506B and a SM 79 and damaged another SM 79, on September 27 he shared a SM 84 and on October 17 he shared another Cant Z 506B. He was awarded the DSC (25.11.41). Guthrie was made an OBE (1.1.46) and released from the Navy on January 30 1946, as a Lieutenant Commander (A). He succeeded to the baronetcy in 1945 and in the years before his retirement in the 1970s he held many appointments on company boards, including BEA, BOAC and the Air Registration Board. On retirement, he went to live in Jersey. Guthrie died on December 31 1979.

With training completed he was on 19 Squadron at Duxford on January 1 1939. Commissioned on April 1 1940, he joined 266 Squadron from 19 on April 22, moved on to 10 MU, Hullavington on the 26th and then joined 229 Squadron at Digby on May 5 1940. Gunning had apparently left 229 by June 1 and joined 46 Squadron, when it reassembled at Digby after the ill-fated operation in Norway. He flew his first operational sortie with 46 on July 5 1940. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on September 7 and damaged a Do 17 on the 15th. Gunning was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 109s over the Thames Estuary on October 15 1940. His Hurricane, N 2480, crashed and burned out in a chalk pit at Little Thurrock. He was 29 and is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, North Weald Bassett.

PO

Pilot

Born on March 21 1916, Guthrie was the son of Sir Connop Guthrie, 1st Baronet. He was educated at Eton and Magdalene College, Cambridge. He was the winner, with C W A Scott, of the Portsmouth-Johannesburg Air Race in 1936.

Gunning joined the RAF about January 1932, as an Aircrafthand (515543). He later applied for pilot-training and was selected.

83988

504 Squadron

GILES CONNOP McEACHARN GUTHRIE

PETER STACKHOUSE GUNNING PO

British

PO 18.6.40

PO 1.4.40

43474

Pilot

Gurteen, of Haverhill, Suffolk, was born on February 10 1916. He was at Marlborough College 1929/33.

HAROLD RAYMOND GUNN 43067

PO

43 and 501 Squadrons

Gunter was born at Hinsley, Hampshire on January 23 1920. He joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748287) on May 17 1939 and was called up on September 1. Posted to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on March 26 1940, Gunter was awarded his flying badge on June 20. With the course completed, he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 17, where he converted to Hurricanes and he then joined 43 Squadron at Usworth on September 10. He moved to 501 Squadron at Kenley on the 22nd. Gunter was shot down on the 27th, attacking Do 17s. He baled out but was killed when his chute failed to open. His Hurricane, V 6645, crashed near Teynham Court, Sittingbourne. Gunter is buried in St Mary’s churchyard, Aldeby, Norfolk, where his father was Vicar.

LEONARD NORTHWOOD GUY 758823

Sgt

Pilot

British

601 Squadron

Guy, born at Weston-super-Mare in 1915, was the son of a town councillor there. He was educated at Wycliffe College, near Stonehouse, Gloucestershire. After leaving, he was with Lloyd’s Bank. He joined the RAFVR in August 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 44 Course, from November 6 1939 to May 20 1940.

PO 17.8.40

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Guy was killed on January 28 1942, as a Sub Lieutenant, when the Fulmar, which he was flying solo, crashed into nos 188 and 190 Stenhouse Street, Cowdenbeath, Fife. Four civilians were killed. Guy, who was serving at HMS Merlin the Naval air station at Donibristle, was 20 years old and he is buried in Dunfermline (Douglas Bank) Cemetery. He was the son of Major Vivian Guy.

Guy appears to have joined 601 Squadron at Tangmere direct from 5 FTS, as he made his first flight with the squadron on May 25 1940, for Hurricane experience. On July 11 Guy claimed a Ju 87 probably destroyed and another damaged, on August 11 he probably destroyed two Bf 110s and damaged another, on the 13th he destroyed a Bf 110, shared another and damaged a third, on the 15th he shared a Ju 88 and on the 16th he claimed two Ju 87s, one of which he forced to crash into the sea without firing a shot. On August 18 Guy failed to return from a combat off the Sussex coast, in Hurricane R 4191. It seems that Guy’s aircraft struck the surface of the sea when he was pursuing a Ju 88 at low level. The German pilot reported that his pursuer had crashed into the water. Guy was 25. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 14. There is a memorial plaque to “Bill” Guy on the Grand Pier, Weston-super-Mare, of which his father was once General Manager. It was unveiled on September 15 2004.

Midshipman 1.5.39

ERIC NORMAN LAURENCE GUYMER 119503

Sgt

Pilot

British

238 Squadron

Guymer joined Class ‘F’ Reserve of the RAF Reserve in 1936, as an Airman u/t Pilot (700261). He was called to full-time service on September 1 1939.

PETER GUY Midshipman (FAA)

Pilot

British

808 Squadron

He was serving with 12 Squadron at Thorney Island on August 17 1940. On this day he flew his only operational sortie with the squadron, a daylight attack on shipping in Boulogne Harbour, in Fairey Battles. Guymer joined 238 Squadron at St Eval on September 7 1940. He was attached to 5 OTU from September 14, converted to Hurricanes and rejoined 238, then at Chilbolton, on October 9. He became operational on the 11th. He served with 238 until March 1941. Guymer was commissioned in January 1942 and released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant.

Guy, of Kirkbymoorside, Yorkshire carried out his elementary flying training at 14 EFTS, Elmdon. He went on to No 1 FTS, Leuchars on No 6 Course, from November 6 1939 to April 21 1940. He joined 808 Squadron at Wick on July 8 1940, flying Fulmars on dockyard defence. He embarked with the squadron in HMS Ark Royal on October 22 1940 and took part in all the carrier’s actions in the Mediterranean in 1941. On September 27 he shared in destroying a Fiat BR 20 torpedo bomber and on October 17 a Cant Z506B.

PO 15.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 15.1.44

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H GERALD HENRY HACKWOOD 42217

PO

Pilot

British

and 28. He was posted away to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on December 30 1940, as an instructor. He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Squadron Leader.

264 Squadron

Hackwood, of Newbury, Berkshire, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 1 1939, as a pupil pilot. He completed his training and was with 264 Squadron at Martlesham Heath by February 1 1940.

PO (AAF) 11.6.32 FO (AAF) 11.12.33 FO (AAFRO) 11.6.38 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

Off Dunkirk on May 29th, Hackwood, with LAC P Lillie as his gunner, claimed a Bf 109, a Bf 110 and a Ju 87 destroyed and shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 and a Ju 87. On the 31st, again off Dunkirk, they shot down two He 111s and shared a third. Hackwood served with 264 Squadron in the Battle of Britain. He was injured on October 7 1940, when he crashed, taking off from Luton in Defiant N 1578. He was admitted to hospital and did not fly his next operational sortie until November 10. He was killed on November 20 1940, taking off from Southend on a night interception sortie, in Defiant N 1626. Hackwood was 20. He is buried in the churchyard of St Mary the Virgin and St John the Baptist, Newtown, Newbury, Berkshire.

CYRIL HAIGH 566171

Pilot

British

British

604 Squadron

He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot on January 23 1939 and was on No 12 Course at 11 FTS, Shawbury, from April 15 to October 23 1939. Haigh joined 92 Squadron at Tangmere, direct from FTS. He joined 604 Squadron at Northolt on April 1 1940. On August 25 he was captain of Blenheim L 6782, which crashed near Witheridge, Exeter whilst on an operational sortie. Haigh and Sergeant J G B Fletcher, air gunner, were killed and LAC A L Austin, radar operator, died the next day. Haigh was 23. He is buried in St Margaret’s churchyard, Swinton, Yorkshire. On October 9 2000, a memorial plaque was presented to Mexborough School honouring Cyril Haigh.

JOHN GALLOWAY EDWARD HAIG FL

Pilot

Haigh was educated at Mexborough Secondary School. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice, in September 1932 and passed out in August 1935, as a Fitter. He later applied for pilot-training and was selected.

APO 24.6.39 PO 9.12.39

90189

Sgt

603 Squadron Haig, a paper maker by profession, was commissioned in 603 Squadron, AAF on June 11 1932. He went on to the AAFRO on June 11 1937, on completing his five-year engagement.

RICHARD CUMMINS HAINE 43147

He was recalled for full-time service on August 24 1939. He arrived at 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on September 15 and after further training and conversion to Spitfires, he rejoined 603 on December 8 1939. On January 10 1940 Haig and three other 603 pilots were attached to RAF Montrose, for convoy protection duties. Haig shared in the destruction of a He 111 E of Aberdeen on January 16. In the early hours of June 26 1940 Turnhouse was bombed by German intruder aircraft. Haig was airborne at this time and may have shared in the destruction of a He 111 ten miles S of Dunbar, with Flight Lieutenant A V R Johnstone of 602. With fuel running low, Haig requested permission to land at Turnhouse, 603’s base. This was refused because of the possibility of German intruders still being in the area, making the switching-on of the flare path quite inadvisable. Haig turned away to open country. Very soon afterwards his motor cut and it being too dark to attempt a forced landing, he baled out, spraining an ankle on landing. His Spitfire crashed at Harperrigg Reservoir. Having convinced a local farmer that he was not German, Haig was taken back to Turnhouse by the farmer in his lorry, which crashed in to a bomb crater near the aerodrome. Presumably no one was hurt. On July 17 1940 Haig joined the ‘A’ Flight detachment at Dyce, from Turnhouse. On the 24th he damaged a He 111 ENE of Peterhead. In late August 603 went south to Hornchurch and on September 2 Haig claimed a Bf 109 destroyed but made a wheels-up landing back at base in his damaged Spitfire, R 6752, unhurt. Haig probably destroyed a Bf 109 on September 30 and damaged others on October 2

PO

Pilot

British

600 Squadron

Born on October 1 1916, Haine learned to fly at Cotswold Aero Club, Staverton, whilst still at school. He joined the RAF as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot (580010) on August 26 1935 and did his ab initio course at 2 FTS, Filton. Haine went to 11 FTS, Wittering on November 7 and with training completed, he joined 25 Squadron on May 10 1936. He was in the squadron aerobatics team at the Hendon Air Display in 1937. The squadron converted to Blenheims in December 1938 and in August 1939 moved to Northolt. On November 28 1939 he flew one of six Blenheims of 25 Squadron, which went with six from 601 Squadron to attack the seaplane base at Borkum, the first fighter attack of the war on Germany. He probably destroyed a He 59 on the water. On April 1 1940 Haine was commissioned and posted to 600 Squadron. On May 10 he flew one of the six Blenheims which attacked Waalhaven airfield, Rotterdam in daylight and from which only one returned safely to base. Haine claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and two Ju 52s damaged on the ground, before he was shot down. After making a forcedlanding, he and his gunner evaded capture and returned to England in the destroyer evacuating the Dutch Royal Family. He was awarded the DFC (9.7.40). Haine served with 600 in the Battle of Britain and on January 14 1941 he was posted to 68 Squadron at Catterick, as a Flight Commander. Haine moved to HQ 9 Group at Preston on June 21, as Squadron Leader Night Ops. On December 31 he took command of 96 Squadron at Wrexham. When the command was upgraded to Wing Commander rank on May 18 1942, Haine reverted to Flight Commander. He was posted to HQ Fighter Command on March 24 1943, as Squadron Leader Night Training and then went as Wing Commander, OC Training Wing at 54 OTU, Charter Hall on June 12 1943. On January 2 1944 Haine was given command of 488

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(RNZAF) Squadron. Haine destroyed a Ju 88 during the night of August 4/5 and a Ju 188 on September 1/2. He moved to HQ 85 Group, Ghent on October 23 1944 and on December 29 took command of 147 Wing at Odiham Haine was made OC at Winfield on March 19 1945, a satellite station of 54 OTU. He was briefly Station Commander at RAF Eshott in May, SOA at 302 Wing, Ibsley in June and held several brief appointments in Hong Kong from early September 1945 to the end of the year. He became Wing Commander Flying at Kai Tak on January 21 1946. In 1965 he marched in Sir Winston Churchill’s funeral procession. Haine retired on October 1 1970 as a Group Captain. He was made an OBE (1.1.62). He died on September 30 2008.

after which he moved to 11 FTS, Shawbury on April 14, to instruct. He was a short while at 10 EFTS, Weston-Super-Mare in May and posted to Canada on June 13, as an instructor and Assistant CFI (EFTS). In mid-December 1943 Hairs returned to the UK and joined 276 (ASR) Squadron at Harrowbeer. He was posted away on May 5 1944 to 19 OTU, Kinloss as OC Bomber Defence Training Flight. His final posting was to India on July 18 1945, on administrative duties. Hairs was released from the RAF on October 30 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He received a Mention in Despatches (14.6.45) and was made an MBE (1.1.46). In later life he was a bank manager and a magistrate. He died, aged 99, on August 24 2014.

PO 1.4.40 FO 1.4.41 FL 25.11.41 SL 1.9.45

PO 10.12.39 FO 10.12.40 FL 10.12.41

WC 1.1.52 GC 1.7.62

LEONARD ARCHIBALD HAINES

NOEL MUDIE HALL

40297

33166

FO

Pilot

British

19 Squadron

From Melcombe Regis, Haines joined the RAF on a short service commission in September 1937.

Pilot

British

257 Squadron

Hall was born at Alverstoke, Hampshire on December 25 1915 and was the youngest son of Commodore (later Admiral) S S Hall of Hamble, Hampshire, who had commanded the submarine service. N M Hall was educated at Hilton College, South Africa.

He was with 19 Squadron at Duxford in early 1940. Over Dunkirk on June 1 he destroyed a Bf 109 and on a later patrol he damaged a He 111. On August 19 1940 Haines shared a Bf 110, on September 3 he destroyed a Bf 110, on the 5th a Bf 109, on the 11th a Bf 110, on the 15th two Bf 109s and a Bf 110 and on the 18th he shared two Ju 88s and probably destroyed a Bf 109. He was awarded the DFC (8.10.40). Haines shared a Bf 109 on November 5, shared a Bf 110 on the 15th and destroyed a Bf 109 on the 28th. He was posted away in late 1940, to be an instructor at 53 OTU, Heston and he was killed in a flying accident on April 30 1941. Haines is buried in the Heston and Isleworth Cemetery, Twickenham, Middlesex. APO 28.11.37

FL

He entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1933, as a Flight Cadet. He represented the College at Cricket, Athletics and Hockey. After graduation in July 1935, with a Permanent Commission, Hall was posted to 3 Squadron at Kenley. On November 2 1936 Hall went to the Station Flight at Mildenhall and began meteorological duties. For his work there he was awarded the AFC (2.1.39). On January 14 1939 Hall was temporarily attached to 19 Squadron at Duxford. On the 21st he joined the Wireless Flight at RAE, Farnborough. Hall went from the RAE to the newly-reformed 257 Squadron at Hendon on June 4 1940, as a Flight Commander. On July 22 he was recalled to the RAE but managed to return to 257 five days later. Hall was shot down and killed on August 8 1940, in combat with Bf 109s off St Catherine‘s Point, in Hurricane P 2981. His body was recovered by the Germans and buried as an unknown airman. In 1948 his cigarette case with initials, a watch and a gold cuff link were identified by his father and the grave in Criel Communal Cemetery, France was marked with his name. Hall was 24 when he was killed.

PO 27.9.38 FO 27.5.40

JOHN KEATINGE HAIRE 748611

Sgt

Pilot

British

145 Squadron

PO 27.7.35 FO 27.1.37 FL 27.1.39

Born in Belfast on September 25 1920, Haire joined the RAFVR in June 1939 as an Airman u/t Pilot.

PETER FRANK HALL 742837

Called up on September 1, he continued his elementary flying training at No 1 EFTS, Hatfield on December 4 1939. Haire went to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 20 Course, which ran from May 13 to August 17 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge next day, converted to Hurricanes and joined 145 Squadron at Drem on September 11. 145 moved to Tangmere in October. On the 23rd he damaged a Ju 88 near Beachy Head. On the 27th Haire’s Hurricane, V 6888, was damaged in combat with Bf 109s E of the Isle of Wight. He ditched in the sea off Bembridge and waded ashore, unhurt. On November 6 1940 Haire was killed in a combat over the Isle of Wight. His Hurricane, V 6627, was seen to be on fire. Haire steered the aircraft away from the village of Arreton but when he did bale out, he was too low and his parachute did not open fully. Haire died soon afterwards, where he had fallen, close to his burning aircraft on Heasley Farm, Arreton. He was probably shot down by Major Helmut Wick. Haire is buried in Dundonald Cemetery, Belfast.

PO

Pilot

British

Pilot

British

235 Squadron

Born on May 1 1916, Hall was educated at Ashby and later went to Wellingborough School, Northamptonshire. He joined the RAFVR at Leicester in November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742837). Called up on September 1, he went initially to ITW at Trinity College, Cambridge. Hall moved on to 2 FTS, Brize Norton for No 44 Course, which began on December 11 1939. On March 27 1940 Hall stalled and crashed, in Harvard P 5836, after an error in judgement when landing, unhurt apparently. With training completed, Hall arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 6 1940. After converting to Blenheims, Hall was posted to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on or about the 26th. He flew his first operational sortie on June 25 1940, a sweep over Holland by nine aircraft. Hall’s crew was Sergeants J C Merrett, observer and J R McMahon, air gunner. On August 15, on a patrol over the North Sea, they fell in with some aircraft, which, on closer inspection, proved to be He 111s. There was an exchange of fire, during which Merrett was slightly wounded. With one engine out of action from a bullet-strike, Hall headed for home, his position then being quite near Norway. On August 22 Hall encountered a German trainer a few miles off Le Havre. The aircraft flew into the sea whilst taking violent evasive action to escape Hall. On December 16 1940 his Blenheim was one of a section of three, escorting minelayers. The other two Blenheims were flown by Pilot Officers Coggins and Quelch. They left the minelayers at dusk and, led by Coggins, they turned out to sea, because base at Bircham Newton was under German air attack. They were flying round, passing time, when it was realised that they were lost. The section-leader, Coggins, made a turn, which became steeper and steeper, until he hit the sea and the aircraft burst nto flames. Hall and Quelch continued to fly around until Hall saw some lights and landed. Luckily it was Bircham Newton. Quelch landed a few minutes later. In February 1941 Hall and Sergeant Wallis were out over the North Sea, when they spotted a FW Kondor just above sea level. Wallis dived to attack it and was promptly shot down. Hall attempted some passes but he realised that it was impossible to come up under the Kondor’s vulnerable underside. He broke off and turned for home, complete with bullet holes from the Kondor’s gunners.

PETER RAYMOND HAIRS 76316

Sgt

501 Squadron

Hairs joined the RAFVR in January 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740726) and carried out his early flying training at 19 E&RFTS, Gatwick. Called up at the outbreak of war, he went to 6 FTS, Little Rissington in October 1939, to complete his training, after which he was commissioned. On December 28 1939 Hairs was posted to 11 Group Pool, St Athan, where he converted to Hurricanes. He then joined 501 Squadron at Tangmere on January 25 1940. The squadron flew to France on May 10 and on the 14th Hairs damged a Do 17 and shared in destroying another on the 15th. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on September 5. He was posted to 15 EFTS, Kidlington on October 13 1940, as a flying instructor. Hairs went to 2 CFS Cranwell for an instructor‘s course on February 23 1941,

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ROSSWELL CLIFFORD HALL

After a spell at Aldergrove on convoy-escort duties, the squadron returned to Bircham Newton in April 1941. Hall was posted away to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course, after which he rejoined 235. Commissioned in December 1941 (118402), Hall remained with 235, by then receiving its first Beaufighters. At the end of 1942 he applied for a posting to 521 Squadron, operating in Mosquitos from Bircham Newton. His posting came through in March 1943 and he was somewhat surprised to find that the squadron was on meteorological duties and its aircraft unarmed. Hall was posted to RAF Oakington, HQ of a Pathfinder Group, with a flight of 521 Squadron, to become 1409 Flight, with the duty of obtaining weather information for Pathfinder use. He was Deputy Flight Commander, making long-distance flights to targets in Europe, in unarmed Mosquitos, to obtain weather information and taking photographs of the intended target for that night’s operations. On May 9 1943 Hall made a trip to the Ruhr. On the way back he was intercepted by four FW 190s, over the coast at Den Helder, at 27000 feet. Attacks badly damaged the Mosquito and Hall and his navigator, Bill Woodruff, baled out. They were blown inland and followed down by the German fighters. The two men were hidden by Dutch people but Hall gave himself up a few days later, realising that escape to England was impossible and that they were endangering their Dutch helpers. With twelve other RAF men, he was taken by train to the interrogation centre at Oberzel. After a few days, Hall went in a draft of 40 PoWs to Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan, arriving there on May 23 1943. He took part in preparations for ‘The Great Escape’, his job being the making of maps. After the tragic conclusion of the enterprise, life resumed at Sagan as before. Early on January 27 1945 the prisoners were marched out of the camp, the Russians then being only some 35 miles away. By February 21 the marchers had reached the area of Hamburg. After his release from the RAF in 1945, Hall joined the family firm of sockmakers. He took over the company in 1949. From July 25 1947 he was a Flying Officer in the RAFVR, relinquishing his commission on July 25 1952.

42964

PO

Air Gunner

British

219 Squadron

Hall joined the RAF in December 1938, as an Aircrafthand (629275). He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner, completed his training and was commissioned in January 1940. He was later with 219 Squadron at Catterick. On June 15 1940 Hall was detached from 219 to CGS, Warmwell, for a Gunnery Leader course. He rejoined 219 on July 13. The last mention of him in the 219 ORB was on October 9 1940. His name last appears in the January 1943 Air Force List and no trace of him has been found as a casualty, so presumably he left the RAF in early 1943.

WILLIAM CLIFFORD HALL 78264

PO

Observer

British

248 Squadron

Hall, of Ovington, Northumberland, joined the RAFVR about August 1939 as an Airman u/t Observer (759295). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and was commissioned. He was with 248 Squadron at Gosport in May 1940. He was detached to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth on May 31, for further training. He rejoined 248 on June 25 1940 and was still with the squadron on November 3 1940. He was killed on April 14 1941, as a Flying Officer with No 1 PRU. Hall is buried in Vlissingen Northern Cemetery, Flushing, Netherlands. He was 30. PO 24.3.40 FO 24.3.41

IAN LEWIS McGREGOR HALLAM PO 30.12.41 FO 30.12.42 Fl 30.12.44 FO (RAFVR)25.7.47

39730

FL

Pilot

British

Hallam, the son of a doctor, was born in Edinburgh on November 2 1918 and was educated at Repton School. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 15 1937, as a pupil pilot. He went on to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on May 18, for a short induction course.

ROBERT HALL 971505

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

29 Squadron

Hall joined the RAFVR in October 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. He was with 29 Squadron at Wellingore for part of the Battle of Britain. He made his first operational sortie with the squadron on September 15 1940 and his final sortie, as an Air Gunner, on December 12 1940. The squadron began receiving its first Beaufighters about this time. Hall retrained as a radar operator and flew his first Beaufighter sortie on March 29 1941 and his last on October 3 1941. On October 7 1941 Hall was flying with Flying Officer C R Miles, in Beaufighter T 3355. The aircraft hit high ground at Westfield Sole, Kent and both men were killed. Hall is at Felling (Heworth) Cemetery, Co Durham.

He was posted to 2 FTS, Digby on June 5 and with intermediate and advanced training completed, he joined 2 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Hawkinge in January 1938. The squadron went to France on September 6 1939 and was withdrawn to England on May 19 1940. Hallam was sent to the PRU at Heston on July 6 1940, for training, following which he joined 225 (AC) Squadron at Tilshead. In August he volunteered for Fighter Command and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 22nd. After converting to Spitfires, Hallam joined 610 Squadron at Acklington on September 3, moving on to 222 Squadron at Hornchurch on the 30th. During the Battle of Britain, Hallam is believed to have claimed one Bf 109 destroyed, another probably destroyed and four damaged. On October 24 1940 he was posted to 73 Squadron at Castle Camps. He made a crash-landing on November 3 near Redhill, in a Hurricane. He did not go with 73, when it left Debden for the Middle East on November 13 but joined 151 Squadron at Digby on the 19th. Hallam served briefly with 303 Squadron at Leconfield, as ‘B’ Flight Commander, from December 4 until the 23rd, when he went to 213 Squadron, also based at Leconfield. In 1941 Hallam was posted to No 2 CFS, Cranwell, as an instructor. In early March 1942 he went to South Africa and instructed at 5 (SAAF) Wing at Germiston and later at 21 Air School, Kimberley. In early July 1942 he was posted to Egypt, to join 208 Squadron, a photo-reconnaissance unit, equipped with Hurricanes. Based in the Western Desert at LG 100, Hallam failed to return on August 24 1942, from a reconnaissance operation over the Alamein area. A month later the Germans broadcast his name as a PoW. At some time he was held in Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan and Belaria (PoW No 648) and Oflag XXIB at Szubin, Poland. He was freed in early May 1945 as a Squadron Leader. Hallam stayed on in the RAF. He was killed on May 10 1952, when his aircraft crashed at Methlick, Aberdeenshire, whilst on a training flight from Dyce. At that time Hallam was a Squadron Leader and CO of the Aberdeen University Air Squadron.

ROGER MONTAGU DICKENSON HALL 43009

PO

Pilot

British

152 Squadron

Born on August 12 1917, Hall was at Haileybury College from 1931 to 1935. He entered the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst in 1936, as an Officer Cadet. Hall was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant, Royal Tank Regiment on January 27 1938. Soon afterwards he became ill and did not rejoin his regiment until the end of the year. In March 1940 Hall applied to transfer to the RAF and after acceptance was posted to 7 EFTS, Desford for his ab initio course. He completed his training at 8 FTS, Montrose on No 19 Course, which ran from May 6 to August 12 1940. He then went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum on No 14 Course. The course did not finish until September 7 but Hall, who had volunteered for Fighter Command, left Old Sarum and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 22. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 152 Squadron at Warmwell on September 2. On the 27th Hall damaged a Bf 110 and on October 7 he damaged a He 111. On December 15 1940 he was posted away to join 255 Squadron, recently reformed at Kirton-in-Lindsey, with Defiants. He destroyed a He 111 over the Humber on February 10 1941, 255’s first victory. In September Hall joined 72 Squadron at Gravesend, as a Flight Commander. He was posted away in December. In April 1942 he went to 91 Squadron at Hawkinge. Hall made his last operational flight on September 17, left the squadron in October and was awarded the DFC (24.11.42). He lost his flying category for medical reasons, and transferred to the Administrative Branch. Hall was released from the RAF in 1944 as a Flight Lieutenant. After release, he was with BEA, as an administrator and then worked for 30 years with the RAC, until his retirement. He joined the RAFVR in 1960. He wrote a memoir, Clouds of Fear, later republished posthumously as Spitfire Pilot. Hall died on December 19 2002 and is buried in St James’ Cemetery, Dover. PO 8.3.40 FO 8.3.41 FL 8.3.42

610, 222 and 73 Squadrons

APO 18.5.37 PO 15.3.38 FO 15.10.39 FL 15.10.40 SL 1.12.41 SL 1.8.47

ANTONY BURTON HALLIWELL 77354

PO

Air Gunner

British

141 Squadron

Halliwell, who was born in 1905, joined the RAF in February 1940 with a commission as a direct-entry Air Gunner. He completed his training in March and was posted to 141 Squadron at Prestwick.

FO (RAFVR) 11.7.60

On July 19 1940, Halliwell was flying with Squadron Leader W A Richardson, CO of 141.

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JACK ROYSTON HAMAR

They were in one of nine Defiants, that were attacked by Bf 109s off Dover. Theirs was one of only four Defiants that returned to base. Halliwell claimed a Bf 109 destroyed. He was promoted to Acting Flying Officer on October 5 1940 and he was still with 141 on November 14 1941. Halliwell was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1974.

70898

PO

Pilot

British

151 Squadron

Born in Knighton, Radnorshire on December 21 1914, Hamar was educated at the Primary School there and the John Beddoes Grammar School, Presteigne. He worked in the family grocery business in Knighton.

APO 3.2.40 PO 16.3.40 FO 16.3.41 FL 16.3.42 On May 16 1938 Hamar was accepted as an RAFO pupil pilot and began his elementary flying training at 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury. Having passed his ab initio course, he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on July 9, where he was commissioned in Class ‘A’ of the RAFO and put through a short induction course. Hamar completed his flying training at CFS, Yatesbury and joined 151 Squadron at North Weald on March 3 1939. He relinquished his RAFO commission in May 1939, on being granted a short service commission in the RAF. Hamar crashed in a Magister at Debden on February 11 1940 but was unhurt. On May 17 151 landed at Abbeville in France, to help the hard-pressed squadrons and on this day Hamar probably destroyed a Ju 87. 151 was withdrawn on the 22nd and, flying from Manston, it escorted three Ensign transports to Merville. On the way back 151 attacked Ju 87s dive-bombing St Omer. Hamar destroyed one and probably a second. On May 25 and 29 he destroyed Ju 88s over Dunkirk. Hamar damaged a Bf 110 on July 9 and destroyed a Bf 109 on the 14th. He was killed on July 24, when he stalled, attempting an upward roll prior to landing. He crashed from 500 feet, inverted, on to North Weald aerodrome. Hamar is buried in Knighton Cemetery. He was awarded the DFC (30.7.40), which was presented to his mother by the King at Buckingham Palace on September 17 1940.

HERBERT JAMES LEMPRIERE HALLOWES 45010

Sgt

Pilot

British

43 Squadron

Born in Lambeth, London on April 17 1912. As a boy he spent three years in the Falklands, where his father was a medical officer. Hallowes was educated at the King Edward VI Grammar School at Stratford-upon-Avon. He joined the RAF in January 1929, as an Aircraft Apprentice (563179). Hallowes passed out in December 1931 as a Metal Rigger. He applied for pilot training in 1934 and was selected. He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot in October 1935.With training completed he joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere in August 1936, as a Sergeant. On February 3 1940 Hallowes shared in destroying a He 111, the first enemy aircraft to crash on English soil in the war. On April 8 he damaged a He 111 and was surprised when it followed him down to the aerodrome at Wick. The pilot believed he was landing on water and after stopping he let go his dinghy and emerged from the aircraft, minus his boots, into the snow, only to be confronted by a soldier with a fixed bayonet. Both rear gunners were dead. Near Dunkirk on June 1 Hallowes destroyed a Bf 110, two Bf 109s and damaged another. On the 7th his aircraft was set alight in combat. As he was about to bale out, a Bf 109 overtook him. Hallowes resumed his seat, shot down the enemy fighter and then baled out, dislocating his ankle on landing. Soldiers told him the Bf 109 had crashed and they were not sure which pilot he was. Hallowes was taken to No 4 Base Hospital at La Bause and rejoined 43 at Northolt on July 6 1940. On August 8 Hallowes claimed two Bf 109s destroyed, on the 13th a Ju 88 and a Do 17 destroyed, another Ju 88 probably destroyed, and another damaged, on the 15th a Ju 88 probably destroyed, on the 16th three Ju 87s destroyed, on the 18th another three and he destroyed a He 111 and shared another on the 26th. Hallowes was awarded the DFM and Bar (6.9.40). Commissioned in September 1940, he was posted away on December 18 to 96 Squadron, then being formed at Cranage. He returned to 43 later in the month. At some time in 1941 Hallowes left 43 Squadron and then served with 65 Squadron and later instructed at 56 OTU, Sutton Bridge. In early 1942 Hallowes was with 122 Squadron at Scorton. He got a probable FW 190 and damaged another on May 5, damaged a FW 190 on the 9th, and got another probable FW 190 and damaged two others on the 17th. Hallowes was given command of 222 Squadron at North Weald in June 1942. In August he took command of 165 Squadron and led it in the Dieppe operation on the 19th, destroying a Do 217 and damaging another and on November 8 he damaged another FW 190. Hallowes was awarded the DFC (19.1.43). In October 1943 he took command of 504 Squadron at Peterhead. Hallowes was promoted to Acting Wing Commander in March 1944 and became Station Commander at Dunsfold. In late 1944 he was a Wing Commander at 57 OTU, Eshott and in March 1945 he was appointed Deputy Station Commander at North Weald. He stayed on in the RAF, in the Secretarial Branch, and retired on July 8 1956 as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. He went to work for the Ministry of Transport. Hallowes died on October 20 1987 and is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Tangmere.

APO (RAFO) 9.7.38 PO 16.5.39

RICHARD KAYE HAMBLIN 16223

Pilot

British

British

17 Squadron

Hamblin went to 26 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Catterick on July 21 1931 and on October 4 1932 he was posted to 31 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Quetta. He moved to 5 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Chakala, Rawalpindi on July 20 1935 and after returning to the UK, Hamblin was given command of 142 Squadron at Andover. He received a Mention in Despatches (18.2.38). He went on a course at Army Staff College, Camberley on January 23 1939. Hamblin joined the Air Staff of 60 (Signals) Group on March 1 1940, at its formation. He was still with it in November 1940. During the Battle of Britain Hamblin made one operational sortie with 17 Squadron in the afternoon of October 29 1940, flying from Martlesham Heath, thus qualifying him for the Battle of Britain clasp. Hamblin was made a CBE (1.1.46) and retired from the RAF on May 25 1956 as an Air Commodore. He died on August 30 1988 in Hampshire. PO 30.7.26 FO 30.1.28 FL 1.6.32 SL 1.8.37 WC 1.6.40 GC 1.6.42 GC 1.10.46 AC 1.7.52

RUSSEL CHAPMAN HAMER 566261

Sgt

Pilot

British

141 Squadron

Hamer joined the RAF as an Aircraft Apprentice at Halton in 1933 and passed out in December 1935. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. He began his ab initio course at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley on July 25 1938. He moved to 7 FTS, Peterborough on October 1. With training completed, Hamer went to 3 AOS, Aldergrove, as a staff pilot.

DERRICK WILSON HALTON Sgt

Pilot

Born on December 16 1906 in India, Some of his childhood was spent in Hampshire. Hamblin was educated at Rugby School and entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1924. On graduation, he was commissioned and joined 56 Squadron at Biggin Hill on July 30 1926. He was sent on a course to the Electrical and Wireless School, Cranwell on April 28 1930.

PO 18.9.40 FO 22.8.41 FL 22.8.42 SL 1.7.44 SL 1.9.45

748212

WC

615 Squadron

Halton joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 45 Course, which ran from December 11 1939 to June 10 1940. He joined 615 Squadron at Kenley from 5 FTS on June 18.

On October 7 1939 he joined 141 Squadron, then reforming at Turnhouse and served with it in the Battle of Britain. In the evening of November 10 1940, Hamer, flying with Sergeant C R Hill as his gunner, damaged a He 111 S of Tunbridge Wells. In the latter half of 1941 Hamer teamed up with Flight Sergeant E Walsh. In June 1942, flying in a Beaufighter from Acklington, they attacked and damaged a Do 217. On September 8 1942 Hamer, then a Warrant Officer, and Walsh were directed to a He 111 fifteen miles SE of St Alban’s Head at 01.40 hrs. They attacked the bomber and strikes were seen. Hamer expended his cannon ammuntion and the Heinkel’s starboard engine caught fire, but a burst of return fire ignited the Beaufighter’s starboard engine. It is then likely that Hamer was wounded but kept firing his machine guns until the

He was sent from 615 to 11 Group, Uxbridge on June 21, for a short course on R/T procedure. Halton was shot down in combat on August 15 and reported ‘Missing’. His Hurricane, P 2801, crashed and burned out at Seal. He was 21 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 14.

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return fire ceased. The enemy aircraft crashed into the sea and Hamer asked for a homing. He was at 6,000 feet and 50 miles S of Tangmere. Walsh suggested baling out but Hamer said he thought he could cope. He was under great strain and would not allow the navigator to transmit or open the front (pilot’s) escape hatch. They were down to 2,000 feet, when the Isle of Wight was seen. Hamer told Walsh to bale out but said he was staying. Suddenly the port engine stopped and Hamer held the Beaufighter at 1000 feet while Walsh baled out, landing on the beach near Newtown, Isle of Wight. The Beaufighter dropped and, in his weakened condition, Hamer was unable to get out. He crashed near Lymington and was killed. He had known that Walsh was a nonswimmer and it is thought that this influenced him to stay with the aircraft until they were over land, even though it would probably mean his own death. Hamer may have been recommended for the VC but, if so, it was not granted. He received a Mention in Despatches (2.6.43). He is buried in Llanidloes (Dolhafren) Cemetery, Montgomeryshire.

detached to CGS, Warmwell on the 20th, for a Gunnery Leader course. He rejoined 141 on June 17. The squadron moved south to West Malling on July 12 1940. On the 19th Hamilton was in one of nine Defiants, that were attacked off Dover by Bf 109s of III/JG 51. Hamilton’s pilot, Flying Officer I D G Donald, was killed in the aircraft and Hamilton baled out but drowned in the sea. Their Defiant, L 7009, crashed at Elmsvale Road, Dover. Hamilton was due to marry that day and the bride and families were already at the church when they were told he had been reported ‘Missing’. Hamilton was 28 and is buried in Folkestone New Cemetery, Kent. There is a 141 Squadron memorial plaque in the hall of Churchill School, Causeway, Zimbabwe and a School house is named Hamilton House.

JOHN WARREN HAMILL

APO 15.3.40 PO 4.5.40

40909

FO

Pilot

New Zealander

229 Squadron

CHARLES BLACKLEY HAMILTON

Born in Hamilton on March 16 1916, Hamill was educated at Wanganui Collegiate School. He went to work for a newspaper and in July 1936 became manager of the Opera House cinema in Oamaru.

174685

Australian

219 Squadron

PO 22.2.44 FO 22.8.44

CLAUD ERIC HAMILTON 90964

PO

Pilot

British

234 Squadron

Hamilton, of Cairns, Midlothian, was with 603 Squadron, AAF before the war. He was called to full-time service on August 23 1939. He was posted from 603 to 11 EFTS, Perth on October 21.

ALEXANDER LEWIS HAMILTON Pilot

British

In October 1943 Hamilton was serving as a Warrant Officer with 85 Squadron at West Malling. In the late evening of the 15th he was flying with Flying Officer H B Thomas, when they shot down a Ju 188, which crashed at St Nicholas-at-Wade, Kent. Commissioned in February 1944, Hamilton was awarded the DFC (26.9.44). He had then assisted in the destruction of four enemy aircraft. Hamilton was still with 85 Squadron when he was killed on April 13 1945. He was 23 and is buried in Hamburg Cemetery, Ohlsdorf.

APO 9.7.38 PO 16.5.39 FO 3.9.40

PO

Radar Operator

Hamilton, of Girvan, Ayrshire, joined the RAFVR about June 1940, as an Aircrafthand (1002686). He volunteered for aircrew duties and probably went on a short radar course at Yatesbury. In early September 1940 Hamilton joined 219 Squadron at Catterick as a radar operator.

Hamill applied for an RAF short service commission in December 1937 and was provisionally accepted. He sailed for the UK on April 7 1938 in the RMS Rangitata. On May 16 he began his ab initio flying at 4 E&RFTS, Brough and was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney on July 23. With the course completed, he joined ‘W’ Flight No 1 AACU at Henlow on March 4 1939, as a staff pilot. Hamill made a crash-landing in a Magister on September 4 1939. He was admitted to hospital and on September 22 he was moved to Princess Mary’s RAF Hospital at Halton. He rejoined ‘W’ Flight from sick leave on November 9 1939. On May 26 1940 Hamill was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 229 Squadron at Digby on June 9. Hamill injured his ears in a power dive after a He 111 on July 14 and was admitted to hospital. He flew no further operational sorties between July 15 and November 1 1940. On December 11, with his tour completed, Hamill went to 4 Ferry Pilots’ Pool at Kemble. On Christmas Eve he was detailed to deliver a Hurricane from 20 MU to 247 Squadron at Roborough. The weather was bad, with rain and low cloud. After apparently losing his way, Hamill crashed in the Mendip Hills, about three miles from Cheddar Gorge, and was killed. He is buried in Wells Cemetery, Somerset.

42121

AC

He moved on to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on March 23 1940 on No 8 Course. With training completed on August 17, he was posted back to 603 Squadron but immediately attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down. After converting to Spitfires, he may have rejoined 603 or he may have been at 5 OTU until September 18, when he joined 234 Squadron at St Eval. Hamilton went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on October 19, en route to Malta. He embarked on the carrier HMS Argus on October 23 1940 at Glasgow. He was in the first flight of six Hurricanes, which flew off on November 17 to Ta Kali, where he joined 261 Squadron. In the early months of 1941 Hamilton may have shot down six enemy aircraft but this is unsubstantiated. The possible make-up of Hamilton’s victories is arrived at by process of elimination and estimation. The closest estimation is a Ju 87 destroyed on January 16 1941, a Ju 88 possibly on January 19, a Bf 110 destroyed on February 17, a Ju 87 destroyed on February 23, another Bf 110 probably destroyed on the 25th and a Ju 88 destroyed during the night of April 11/12 1941. 261 Squadron was disbanded on May 12 1941 and Hamilton was attached to 185 Squadron. He was shot down on the 14th by Oberleutnant von Kageneck of III/JG 27 and fatally wounded. He was 20 years old. He is buried in the Naval Cemetery, Capuccini, Malta.

248 Squadron

Hamilton was born on December 17 1914 in Adelaide. He was educated at Sturt Primary and the Technical High School and after leaving, he was employed by the Adelaide Electric Company. In August 1938 Hamilton applied for a short service commission in the RAF. He was provisionally accepted and left for England on February 2 1939. He began his ab initio course on March 13 1939, as a pupil pilot. With flying training completed, he joined 248 Squadron at its reformation at Hendon on November 16 1939. It was then a fighter squadron but in February 1940 was transferred to Coastal Command. For a period in the Battle of Britain 248 was seconded back to Fighter Command for long-range fighter and reconnaissance duties. On June 26 1941 Hamilton left 248 to be an instructor and was eventually posted to Rhodesia. He returned to England in mid-1944 and served with 464 Squadron at Thorney Island until April 26 1945. Hamilton stayed on in the RAF, in the Fighter Control Branch. He retired on April 5 1961 as a Wing Commander, and returned to Australia. On October 1 1977 he drowned in a boating accident, whilst fishing off the coast of New South Wales.

APO (AAF) 10.7.39 PO 17.8.40

HARRY RAYMOND HAMILTON APO 13.5.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.7.51 WC 1.1.58

39316

ARTHUR CHARLES HAMILTON

Hamilton, of Kings County, New Brunswick, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training on October 12 1936.

78543

PO

Air Gunner

British

FL

Pilot

Canadian

85 Squadron

141 Squadron He was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham on January 11 1937 and with training completed, he joined 46 Squadron at Kenley on August 7 1937. Hamilton was attached to 611 Squadron at Duxford on August 13 1939, as Air Fighting Instructor. The attachment ceased on September 7 and he joined 611. On May 26 1940 he was posted away to 85 Squadron at Debden, as ‘A’ Flight Commander, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant.

Hamilton, of North Harrow, Middlesex, was born on July 23 1911 at Wealdstone. He went to Harrow County School 1924-28. He joined the RAF in March 1940 and was commissioned as a direct-entry Air Gunner. With training completed, he joined 141 Squadron at Turnhouse in May. Hamilton was

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DEREK JOHN HAMMOND

On July 30 he shared a Bf 110, on August 18 he destroyed a Bf 110, damaged another and probably destroyed a He 111 and on the 26th he damaged a Do 17. On the 29th Hamilton destroyed a Bf 109 and was then himself shot down and killed, over Winchelsea. His Hurricane, V 6623, crashed near the ruins of Camber Castle. He was 23 years old and is buried in Folkestone New Cemetery, Kent.

42601

PO

Pilot

British

54, 245 and 253 Squadrons

Hammond joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 10 1939, as a pupil pilot. After completing his flying training, he went to 4 Ferry Pilot Pool.

APO 21.12.36 PO 12.10.37 FO 12.5.39 He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 3 1940. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on the 24th. Next day he flew, as a passenger, in a Magister from Catterick to Hawarden, piloted by Pilot Officer A R McL Campbell. Hammond was en route to Aldergrove, where he joined 245 Squadron for training, to convert to Hurricanes. He then moved to 253 Squadron at Kenley on October 16. Hammond damaged a Bf 109 on November 5. He was posted away and embarked at Liverpool on December 17 1940 for the Middle East. On January 29 1941 he flew a Hurricane to Malta and joined 261 Squadron. He returned to the Middle East in May because of ill health. In March 1942 Hammond was with 272 Squadron in Malta. In May he was with the squadron in the Western Desert and on the 11th he probably destroyed a Ju 88 and shared a He 111. Released from the RAF in 1947, as a Squadron Leader, he died in 1989.

JAMES SUTHERLAND HAMILTON 754020

Sgt

Pilot

British

248 Squadron

Hamilton joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 248 Squadron at Sumburgh in August 1940. He was attached to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth on September 3, for No 5 Blenheim course. He rejoined 248 at Sumburgh on the 25th. Hamilton was captain of a Blenheim, detailed to fly from Sumburgh to Wick for operations on December 13 1940. He collided with another Blenheim, captained by Pilot Officer J D Dodd, whilst formating and they both crashed into the sea and sank. Hamilton, Sergeant H W Walmsley, observer and the air gunner were lost, also two ground crew, who were flying as passengers. The crew of three in the other Blenheim also died. Hamilton was 22. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 15.

PO 24.3.40 FO 24.3.41 FL 24.3.42

CYRIL EDWARD HAMPSHIRE

RONALD FAIRFAX HAMLYN 45277

Sgt

Pilot

British

49529

Sgt

Pilot

He began his ab initio training at 11 E&RFTS, Perth on June 29 1936, as a pupil pilot. On the satisfactory completion of the course, he formally enlisted in the RAF on August 24 1936. He carried out his intermediate and advanced training at 8 FTS, Montrose and passed out as a Sergeant-Pilot. Hamlyn was with 72 Squadron at Church Fenton at the outbreak of war. After Dunkirk, Hamlyn was attached to 610 Squadron at Gravesend on June 6 1940 and this attachment later became a posting. On July 3 Hamlyn shared a Do 17, on the 29th he damaged a Do 17, on August 14 he damaged a Bf 109, on the 24th shot down a Ju 88 and four Bf 109s, on the 26th a Bf 109 and probably another and on the 28th and 30th he destroyed Bf 109s. He was awarded the DFM (13.9.40). Commissioned in January 1941, Hamlyn was posted to 242 Squadron at North Weald on June 13. On a Blenheim escort to Bethune on July 4 he destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 27th he shot one down into the sea. He was made a Flight Commander in late July and remained with the squadron until October 15 1941, when his tour was completed. He was posted to form and command 275 (ASR) Squadron at Valley, with Lysanders and Walruses. Hamlyn was later given command of 276 (ASR) Squadron at Harrowbeer. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.43), for his work on air-sea rescue, and he went to the staff of Bomber Command, as ASR Officer. In 1944 he was Tactics Liaison Officer with the 9th Air Force, USAAF in Normandy and later he was posted to Air Ministry, on Air Staff Policy. In February 1945 Hamlyn was appointed CGI at 41 and later 58 OTUs and in September he became Station Commander RAF Maiduguri, West Africa. He retired from the RAF on October 19 1957 as a Squadron Leader. Hamlyn died in April 1991.

In March 1936 he went to 810 (Torpedo Bomber) Squadron. He passed his Central Trade Test Board and was promoted to LAC. Having applied for and been accepted for pilot training, he was posted to 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick in October 1937 and moved on to 11 FTS in January 1938, firstly at Wittering and later at Shawbury, passing out as a Sergeant-Pilot. In August 1938 Hampshire joined 85 Squadron, newlyreformed at Debden. The squadron moved to Rouen-Boos, France on September 9 1939. He was on leave on May 10 1940 and was recalled to France and had rejoined 85 by the 15th. He damaged a He 111 on the 15th, destroyed a He 111 on the 16th, probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 17th and destroyed a Bf 110 on the 18th. On August 11 he claimed a Bf 110 probably destroyed. On the 17th he was posted to 111 Squadron at Croydon and on September 2 he probably destroyed a Bf 110. He moved to 249 Squadron at North Weald on September 11 and then to 422 Flight at Shoreham on October 15. From June to mid-November 1940 Hampshire flew 119 sorties by day and 11 by night. 422 Flight became 96 Squadron on December 21, based at Cranage. Hampshire was with the squadron until February 7 1942, when he was posted to 60 OTU, East Fortune, as a Warrant Officer instructor on multi-engined aircraft. Commissioned in July 1942, Hampshire joined 286 Squadron, an anti-aircraft cooperation unit at Zeals. Taking off from Locking in an Oxford on February 13 1943 he crashed. One man was killed, one died of his injuries and Hampshire was paralysed and spent a year in hospital. He lost his flying category and finished the war as an Admin Officer in the 2nd TAF Personnel Department. Hampshire was released from the RAF in January 1946 as a Flying Officer. He died on April 29 2004.

PO 29.1.41 FO 28.9.41 FL 28.9.42 SL 1.8.47

JACK HAMMERTON Sgt

Pilot

British

85, 111, 249 Squadrons, 422 Flt

Hampshire was born in Rotherham on September 4 1913 and went to Elswick Road Central School, West Hartlepool. He joined the RAF on September 2 1930, as an Aircraft Apprentice (564722), and passed out in July 1933, as an AC 1 Metal Rigger, and he was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham.

Born in Harrogate on February 26 1914, Hamlyn was educated at Clifton House and Pockling School, near York. He joined the RAF as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot in 1936 (580244).

745227

British

610 Squadron

3 and 615 Squadrons

PO 2.7.42 FO 2.1.43

Hammerton was educated at Slough Grammar School and after leaving he worked for the Woolwich Equitable Building Society. He joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot and was called up on September 1.

BRUCE ALEXANDER HANBURY C 1329

He did his elementary flying at 8 EFTS, Woodley and moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill, for No 18 Course, from February 1 to June 29 1940. Hammerton arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 6 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 3 Squadron at Wick on July 31. He flew his first operational sortie on August 27. He was posted to 615 Squadron at Prestwick on October 11 1940. During a squadron patrol on November 6 from Northolt, Hammerton was last seen at 25,000 feet, leaving the formation, apparently in pursuit of enemy aircraft. He was killed, when he crashed in bad visibility near the railway line at Noah’s Ark, near Sevenoaks. Hammerton was 25. He is buried in Stoke Road Cemetery, Slough.

PO

Pilot

Canadian

1 and 1 (RCAF) Squadrons

Born in Vancouver on April 11 1911, Hanbury joined the RCAF on August 16 1939. He arrived in England in August 1940 and joined 112 (RCAF) Squadron on September 8, which served as a holding unit. Hanbury arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 16. On the 19th he made a poor landing there and crashed, in Hurricane L 1942, unhurt. After converting, he was posted to No 1 Squadron at Wittering on October 3 1940, moving to No 1 (RCAF) Squadron at Prestwick on the 22nd. Hanbury was killed in a flying accident on March 27 1942, as a Squadron Leader with 409 (RCAF) Squadron. He is buried in Scopwick Church Burial Ground, Lincolnshire.

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OSGOOD VILLIERS HANBURY 81357

PO

Pilot

British

Back in the UK, Hancock was posted to 198 Squadron at Matlask on April 27 1943 and was with it until July 15, when he went to 56 Squadron at Martlesham Heath, as a Flight Commander. Tour-expired on May 31 1944, Hancock was posted to 85 Group and awarded the DFC (23.6.44). In May 1945 he took command of 276 (ASR) Squadron at Knocke and his final appointment was as Squadron Leader Admin at RAF Cranfield. He was released from the RAF in March 1946. Hancock became director of a building business and later worked as an architectural surveyor. Hancock died on December 17 2008.

602 Squadron

Hanbury was born on September 13 1917 in Richmond, Yorkshire and was educated at Eton, after which he went to Germany to learn the language. On return he worked for Shell and joined the RAFVR in January 1939 as an Airman u/tPilot (742867). He did his flying at 12 E&RFTS, Wick and later at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham. Called up on September 1 1939, he went to No 1 ITW at Cambridge and completed his flying training at 11 FTS, Shawbury on No 18 Course, which ran from January 31 to June 29 1940. He joined 13 (AC) Squadron on August 4 1940. Hanbury volunteered for Fighter Command and on August 23 he was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 602 Squadron at Westhampnett on September 3. He claimed Do 17s damaged on September 7 and 12, destroyed a Do 17 on the 15th, shared a Ju 88 on the 21st, damaged Bf 110s on the 24th and 25th, destroyed a Ju 88 on the 30th, damaged a Ju 88 on October 5 and destroyed a Bf 109 on the 30th. In May 1941 he joined 260 Squadron at Drem, then about to go to the Middle East. It embarked on the carrier HMS Furious on May 19 and flew off to Malta on June 14, flying two days later to Mersa Matruh. On August 10 the squadron moved on to Haifa, in Palestine, from where it took part in the Syrian campaign. It left for LG 115, in the Western Desert, on October 23 1941. On December 14 Hanbury destroyed a Ju 87 and damaged a Bf 109. He was given command of the squadron in March 1942, shared a Bf 109 on April 3, destroyed a Ju 87 and a Mc 202 and probably destroyed another on the 25th. He was then hit himself and made a forced-landing near Gazala. Hanbury was given command of 260 Squadron in March 1942. He was awarded the DFC (22.5.42) and destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another on June 27 and destroyed a Bf 109 on July 6. He was rested on the 19th and posted to HQ 211 Group at Amriyah, on planning duties. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (28.7.42). He took command of 260 Squadron again on November 5 1942. Hanbury damaged a Bf 109 on December 14, claimed another destroyed on January 2 1943 and a Bf 110 on April 17. He was awarded the DSO (30.4.43) and he relinquished command of the squadron in May 1943, when he was granted leave to return to the UK to get married. Returning to North Africa on June 3 1943, as a passenger in a Hudson of 117 Squadron, Hanbury was reported ‘Missing’ when the aircraft was shot down over the Bay of Biscay by a Ju 88. Hanbury was 25 and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 118. His son, Christopher, was born on February 18 1944. PO 30.6.40

PO 10.8.40 FO 10.8.41 FL 10.8.42

NORMAN PATRICK WATKINS HANCOCK 42122

FO

British

609 Squadron

Hancock went to Sherborne School and then Lincoln College, Oxford, where he read Law. He was a member of the University Air Squadron and was commissioned in Class ‘AA’ of the RAFO in December 1936. He relinquished this, when granted a commission in the RAFVR in April 1938. Called up on September 1 1939, Hancock completed his training and was at 5 B&GS by June 30 1940, as a staff pilot. He was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 609 Squadron at Middle Wallop on September 23. He was posted away from the squadron on January 23 1941. Hancock was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Wing Commander. He was awarded the DFC (16.11.45) as an Acting Wing Commander with 186 Squadron, a Lancaster bomber unit, which operated from Stradishall prior to its disbandment on July 17 1945. He died in 1992. PO (RAFO) 1.12.36 PO (RAFVR) 28.4.38 PO 4.9.39 FO 5.12.39 FL 5.12.40 SL 1.9.42

NORMAN EDWARD HANCOCK 83266

PO

Pilot

British

British

1 Squadron

He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initiio course on February 6 1939 at 15 E&RFTS, Redhill and finished it at 11 E&RFTS, Perth. Hancock went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on May 13 for a short induction course. He moved to 9 FTS, Hullavington on May 28 1939 and after completing his training, he joined the recently-reformed 266 Squadron at Sutton Bridge on November 7 1939. He was posted to No 1 Squadron at Berry-au-Bac in France on May 12 1940. After two days he was detached to 501 Squadron but did not fly, spending his days moving around in lorries. Hancock rejoined No 1 on May 18 and on June 6 he probably destroyed a He 111. The squadron was withdrawn from Nantes and took up residence at Northolt. Flying from Northolt on August 16 1940, he returned to base with two longerons of his Hurricane severed in an attack by a Bf 110 over the South Downs. On the 30th Hancock damaged a He 111. He was posted away to 85 Squadron at Debden, moved to 615 Squadron at Kenley on January 23 1941 and rejoined No 1 Squadron, also at Kenley, on January 29. On April 7 1941 Hancock went to the RAF Depot at Uxbridge. On the 14th he embarked on HMS Argus at Greenock and sailed for Gibraltar, where, on the 24th pilots and aircraft were transferred on to HMS Ark Royal. Hancock led seven Hurricanes off to Malta on the 27th, to join 261 Squadron at Hal Far. When the squadron was disbanded in May, Hancock joined the newly-reformed 185 Squadron on the 12th. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander next day, when Flight Lieutenant I B Westmacott was wounded. Hancock made a crash-landing on May 20, after his engine failed due to a fuel-supply fault. He probably destroyed a He 111 in the early hours of June 6, shared a BR 20 on July 25 and shared a SM 79 on the 27th. Hancock received a Mention in Despatches for a dawn attack on Italian launches, bringing frogmen to Valetta Harbour on July 26. He was posted away to Air HQ, Cairo on September 17 1941 and went to instruct at 71 OTU, Gordon’s Tree, Sudan on October 1. The unit moved to RAF Carthago, Port Sudan on April 26 1942 and on June 8 Hancock was posted to Almaza. He did a short refresher course at El Ballah, was attached to 5 (SAAF) Squadron on July 1 and then joined 250 Squadron at LG 91 on July 9, as a Flight Commander. Hancock damaged a Ju 88, a Bf 110 and a Mc 202 on the ground, in an attack on Fuka airfield on July 20 1942, shot down a SM 79 on the 27th and damaged a Mc 202 on the 31st. Hancock took command of the squadron on November 28 and on December 15 received an immediate award of the DFC (29.12.42). This award was for an operation flown on November 17. Hancock led twelve Kittyhawks of 250 and six from 405 (RCAF) Squadron from Gazala to Benina airfield. Intelligence had reported that converted bombers from Crete were delivering petrol for the Afrika Korps. After a flight through bad weather and low cloud, the Kittyhawks arrived as seven enemy bombers, He 111s and SM 79s, were still in the circuit and five others had already landed. 250 Squadron accounted for the bombers still in the air, Hancock destroying a He 111. The Kittyhawks then strafed the airfield, destroying three SM 79s on the ground and also a He 111, destroyed by Hancock. All the Kittyhawks returned safely and the squadron’s score of enemy aircraft destroyed in the air passed the 100 mark. On December 16 Hancock probably destroyed a Ju 88. On February 4 1943 he was posted away and in March he was seconded to the Turkish Air Force, as Liaison Officer to the TAF Kittyhawk Squadron and also giving fighter tactics training. He returned to Egypt in January 1944, for a course at ABGS, El Ballah. Hancock was then seconded to 2 Squadron of the Royal Egyptian Air Force, as Liaison Officer and Instructor. Whilst serving with the squadron, he was awarded a King’s Commendation for Service in the Air. He went to HQ 216 Group, Transport Command, Heliopolis in February 1945, as an Air Staff Officer. He attended a course at Netheravon in June, his first visit to the UK since April 1941. Hancock returned to the UK in January 1946 and became Station Commander at RAF Aberporth and CO of 595 Squadron. He commanded 11 Squadron at Miho, Japan from November 16 1946 until January 1 1948, when he returned to the UK for a staff job in

FO 30.8.41 FL 23.6.42

Pilot

Pilot

Born on August 4 1919 in Streatham, London, Hancock was educated at Croydon High School and Wimbledon Technical School. After leaving, he worked at British Rototherm as a laboratory assistant.

ERNEST LINDSAY HANCOCK 70278

PO

65 and 152 Squadrons

Hancock joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (758195). Called up on September 1 1939, he went to No 1 ITW at Cambridge on September 5, moved to 12 EFTS, Prestwick on March 26 1940 and then to 5 FTS, Sealand on May 26. With training completed, he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 11, to convert to Spitfires. He joined 65 Squadron at Turnhouse on September 2, moving on to 152 Squadron at Warmwell on October 11. Hancock probably destroyed a Bf 110 off the Isle of Wight on November 28. He was posted to 56 OTU, Sutton Bridge on October 22 1941, as an instructor, and went to 55 OTU, Usworth on February 2 1942. Hancock went to Northern Ireland on July 11, to instruct at the 52nd Pursuit Group, USAAF. He returned to operations on October 18 1942, when he joined 128 Squadron at Hastings, Sierra Leone, as a Flight Commander.

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sailed to France. With other Czechs, he joined the French Foreign Legion, the only unit open to foreigners and he was placed in the barracks at Nanterre, near Paris, awaiting transfer to the training base at Sidi-bel-Abbes, Algeria. However, war broke out before the transfer could take place and Hanus went to l’Armée de l’Air and was posted to Escadrille Legere de Defense at Avord. On January 16 1940 transferred to CIC Chartres to retrain on the French MS-406c and was afterwards commissioned and posted to Group de Chasse III/I, flying Ms 406s and based at Plessis-Belleville. He shared in the destruction of a Hs 126 on May 31 1940. When France capitulated, Hanus was released from service with l’Armee de l’Air and he retreated through France, eventually reaching the Spanish border. He took a French ship, the General Chanzy, on June 24 1940 to Oran, Algeria, a train to Casablanca, sailed in a collier, the Gib-el-Ders, to Gibraltar and then got on a troopship, the Neuralia, which sailed in a convoy for sixteen days to Liverpool. For his part in operations in France, Hanus was awarded the C de G (Fr) in 1946. On August 2 1940 Hanus arrived at the RAF Czechoslovak Depot, Cosford. He was commissioned in the RAFVR and went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 28, where he converted to Hurricanes, afterwards joining 310 Squadron at Duxford on October 14. He remained with the squadron until June 18 1941, when he went to 32 Squadron at Angle. On September 18 Hanus moved to 245 Squadron at Chilbolton. He was awarded the Czech Military Cross in late 1941 and two bars later in the war. He was posted to 54 OTU, Church Fenton on January 5 1942, to convert to Beaufighters. He returned to 245 Squadron on February 21 1942 where he remained until April 1 1942 His next postings were 600 Squadron at Predannack (April 1 to April 14), 125 Sqn at Fairwood Common (April 14 to April 29) returning to 600 Squadron (April 30 to September 1). He went to the Czechoslovak Flight of 68 Squadron at Coltishall on September 13 which was a night-fighter unit. He was posted away later and on December 25 1942 he was in transit to Algeria, North Africa, in a Beaufighter, to rejoin 600 Squadron. Hanus arrived at Blida on January 10 1943 and rejoined 600 Squadron for night-fighting operations, flying Beaufighter VIF aircraft. On the night of March 16/17 he damaged a Do 217, destroyed Ju 88s on the nights of April 4/5, 20/21st and 23/24th and was given an immediate award of the DFC (26.5.43). He destroyed a Ju 88 on September 16/17, was posted back to the UK on December 8 1943 and arrived on February 28 1944. He was posted to the Czechoslovak Inspectorate General and went to HQ Fighter Command, as Technical Liaison Officer. He remained in this post until the end of the war. On August 22 1945 Hanus flew back to Prague, in an Auster. He served in the Czech Air Force, initially as a staff officer to the Czechoslovak Air Force HQ in Prague and then as Commander of Prague-Ruzyne airbase. He then attended the staff college for a course and on October 1 1946 he was appointed Chief of Staff at Air Defence HQ. Following the communist take-over in February 1948 he was placed on ‘waiting leave’ on April 14 and was arrested on May 3 for allegedly having knowledge of a planned escape by ex-RAF Czechoslovak airmen to the American Zone in Germany. He was imprisoned for two months and then released. On July 8 1948 he made his own escape to the American Zone. His English wife and two children had preceded him some months earlier. He rejoined the RAF and was posted on November 2 1948 to 23 Squadron, a night-fighter squadron, at Coltishall. He served with 141 Squadron from January 1949. He then attended a Flight Control course at Middle Wallop and served as an Air Traffic Controller until late 1954, when, for health reasons, he lost his flying category. He re- trained as an Equipment Officer, serving in this capacity at the RAF College, Manby and later as a Technical Officer at the RAF Technical School, Henlow. He retired from the RAF on September 19 1968, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. He worked for the next seven years, until his final retirement, for the computer company ICL. Hanus died on April 21 1992 in the UK.

Regional Welfare. From January 1950 to September 1952 Hancock was SPSO at HQ 12 Group, Fighter Command; from November 1952 to April 1953 OC Flying at RAF Kuala Lumpur; from September 1 1953 to March 1955 Hancock commanded 33 Squadron at Butterworth and was also OC Flying there. From July 25 1955 he was Air 1 at HQ Maintenance Command and his final posting was as CO RAF High Wycombe (HQ Bomber Command). Hancock retired from the RAF on August 12 1958, as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. In 1978 he began a long stint as Honorary Secretary and Treasurer of the Battle of Britain Fighter Association. He was made OBE (1.6.91). After a long period of poor health Hancock died on February 23 2003. APO 13.5.39 PO 6.11.39

FO 6.11.40

FL 6.11.41

SL 1.7.45 SL 1.8.47

GEORGE HENRY HANNAN 79237

PO

Air

Gunner

British

236 Squadron

Hannan, of Dumfriesshire, joined the RAFVR in May 1940, with a commission as a direct-entry Air Gunner. With training completed, he joined 236 Squadron at Middle Wallop on June 17 1940. He was one of the crew of a Blenheim, which failed to return from a reconnaissance sortie over Brest on December 21 1940. The pilot, Squadron Leader, G W Montagu, the observer, Sergeant D R Briggs, and Hannan were reported ‘Missing’. The Germans recovered the bodies. Hannan was 30. He is buried in Bayeux War Cememtery, France. APO 18.5.40 PO 15.6.40

DAVID HARRY WELLSTED HANSON 33363

FO

Pilot

British

17 Squadron

Born on January 25 1918, Hanson was educated at Bramcoat Preparatory School, Scarborough and Winchester College.He entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1936, as a flight cadet. He graduated on December 16 1938, was commissioned next day and joined 29 Squadron at Debden on December 31 1938. Hanson was with 29 until May 23 1940, when he went to 17 Squadron. Over Dunkirk on May 25 Hanson shared in the destruction of a Do 17 and probably destroyed a Bf 109, on the 26th he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged a Do 17, on the 29th he was slightly wounded in the right leg, on June 3 he damaged a Ju 87 and on the 14th he probably destroyed a Bf 109. Hanson claimed a share in destroying a Do 17 on July 12. On August 11 he damaged a Bf 110, on the 25th he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 26th he destroyed another. After destroying a Do 17 on September 3, Hanson was himself shot down. He baled out at 100 feet and was killed. His Hurricane, P 3539, crashed at Blockhouse Farm, Foulness. He is buried in All Saints’ churchyard, Mappleton, Yorkshire. PO 17.12.38 FO 17.6.40

JOSEF JAN HANUS 82546

PO

Pilot

PO 2.8.40 FO 27.12 40 FL 27.12.41 SL 28.10.43 WC 1944 FL 11.9.49

Czechoslovakian

310 Squadron

OTTO HANZLICEK

Hanus was born on September 13 1911 at Dolni Stepanice, Semily. In 1931 he volunteered for the Czechoslovak Air Force and was assigned to 2 Observer Squadron of 1 Air Regiment at Prague-Kbely. One week later he was sent to the Military Aviation Academy at Prostejov for training as an aerial observer. Between June and September 1933 he was with 4 Observer Squadron of 1 Air Regiment based at Chleb.

787697

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

312 Squadron

Hanzlicek was born on June 18 1911 at Usti nad Labeem. He joined the Military Aviation Academy at Prostejov in 1930 where he trained to be a pilot. He graduated on October 1 1932 and was posted, for further training, to 4 Observation Squadron of 4 Air regiment, at Hradec Kralove. He completed his training in 1934 and was posted to 3 Air Regiment at Vajnory for fighter pilot training. He completed this in August 1935 and returned to 4 Air Regiment and went to 37 Fighter Squadron.

He graduated on July 2 1935, opted to become a career airman and was posted back to 4 Observer Squadron where he remained for two years, during which he gained his pilot’s licence and trained in night instrument-flying. On April 28 1938 he was attached to the Interior Ministry to undertake aerial border patrols from airbases at Chleb and Plzen. After the German takeover of Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939, Hanus was demobilised on the 17th. Hanus escaped to Poland on July 14 1939 and reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate at Krakow. On August 1, with other escaped Czech airmen, he boarded the Chroby and

When the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939, he was based at Piestany in Slovakia, and, with many others, he was demobilised on the 17th. On June 8 1939, with two colleagues, he escaped into Poland from near Ostrava. They reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate in Krakow and then sailed, from Gdynia, on July 25, on the Kastelholm which arrived in Calais on July 31. Hanzlicek was required to join the French Foreign Legion with the assurance that if war was declared he would transfer to a French military unit. He went to the Legion training base near Paris, pending transfer to the training base at Sidi-bel-Abbes, Algeria. However, war was declared before he could move and he transferred to l’Armée de l’Air and was

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GEOFFREY HARDIE

assigned to CIC Chartres for re-training to French equipment. He completed this training on December 2 1939 and was posted to Groupe de Chasse (GC) II/5 at Toul-Croix-de-Metz flying Curtis Hawk 75s. On April 23 1940 Hanzlicek probably destroyed a Do 17, on May 11 he destroyed a He 111 and on the 18th he probably destroyed a Do 17 and shared a Bf 109 but was himself shot down, baling out safely. He was awarded the C de G (Fr) and the Czech Military Cross. With the French capitulation imminent, GCII/5 left France on June 20 1940 and flew to Maison Blanche in Algeria. When the capitulation took place the Czech airmen were released from service with l’Armee de l’Air. Hanzlicek, with others, travelled by train to Casablanca and boarded the Royal Scotsman bound for Gibraltar. On July 9 he sailed on the David Livingstone which arrived in Cardiff on August 5. Hanzlicek went to the RAF Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford where he enlisted in the RAFVR. He joined 312 Squadron at Duxford on September 19 and trained to fly Hurricanes. The squadron moved to Speke on September 26 to carry out the primary role of protecting the docks at Liverpool. During a routine patrol on October 10, Hanzlicek’s aircraft caught fire, over Ellesmere Port, and he baled out at low level. The wind blew him over the River Mersey and he fell into the river some way from the north shore, near Oglet. Hanzlicek was seen to be struggling with his parachute in the water but by the time helpers reached him, about 10 minutes later, he was no longer visible and drowned. The Hurricane, L 1547, crashed into the mud of the River Mersey. His body was recovered from the river, about five miles east of Speke, on November 1. This aircraft was the first production Hurricane and made its first flight on October 12 1937. It went through production trials at Brooklands, Martlesham Heath and Hucknall in 1937/38, went to 111 Squadron, Northolt in October 1938 and finally to 312 Squadron at Speke in early October 1940. Hanzlicek was buried on November 5 1940 in grave 392 in West Derby Cemetery, Liverpool. It is a communal grave that he now shares with fellow Czech, Pilot Officer J Bartos (qv) who was interred there in February 1941.

754673

Sgt

Pilot

British

Hardie joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he did his elementary flying traing at 7 EFTS, Desford. He moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 20 Course, which ran from May 13 to August 17 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 17th. Hardie made a forced-landing near Holbeach on September 3, in Master N 7969, as a precaution against fuel shortage. He converted to Hurricanes and joined 232 Squadron at Castletown on September 22. Hardie was posted to No 4 Delivery Flight on June 7 1941 but rejoined 232 Squadron on the 19th, going with it to the Far East at the end of October 1941. At some time in January 1942 Hardie was shot down into the sea off Singapore by Japanese fighters. He was picked up. He flew a 232 Squadron Hurricane to Sumatra on February 5 1942 and on the 25th joined 242 Squadron at Tjilitan when 232 was disbanded. Hardie was commissioned from Warrant Officer on July 26 1943. He died, as a Flying Officer on April 10 1944. The circumstances of his death and the unit with which he was serving are not known. He is buried in Stockport (Willow Grove) Cemetery, Reddish.

NELSON MAXWELL HARDING 39519

FL

Pilot

British

FO

Pilot

British

23 Squadron Harding joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on December 21 1936, as a pupil pilot. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on March 8 1937, for a short induction course. He was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on March 20 and with training completed, he joined 23 Squadron at Wittering on October 23 1937. He was still with the squadron in early July 1940. Harding was killed on September 16 1944, serving as a Flight Lieutenant with 78 Squadron, a Halifax unit, operating from Breighton, Yorkshire. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 202.

JOHN REGINALD HARDACRE 41405

232 Squadron

504 Squadron

Born in Birmingham on June 26 1916, Hardacre was educated at Harrow County School. He joined the RAF on being granted a short service commission.

APO 8.3.37 PO 21.12.37 FO 21.9.39 FL 21.9.40

He began his ab initio course on October 6 1938, as a pupil pilot. He was on 73 Squadron on August 24 1939, direct from FTS. Hardacre joined 46 Squadron at Digby on September 1 1939, as 73 Squadron was preparing to go to France. He was left behind due to his lack of experience. Hardacre moved again three days later, joining 504 Squadron, also at Digby on September 4. The squadron moved to France on May 13 1940. Hardacre claimed a Ju 87 and a Ju 88 destroyed on the 15th. The Ju 88 was believed to have been a Bf 110 of II/ZG 76. Hardacre was shot down twice on May 16. The first time he made a crash-landing in a field and the second time he baled out safely from a flaming aircraft. On the 19th he probably destroyed a Bf 109. 504 was withdrawn to Manston on May 20, moving to Wick on the 24th. On September 7, operating from Hendon, Hardacre claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and on the 15th a Do 17 destroyed and another damaged. He was shot down over the South-west coast on September 30 1940 and killed. His Hurricane, P 3414, crashed into the sea. Hardacre’s body was washed ashore on October 10 at Yarmouth, Isle of Wight. He is buried in All Saints’ churchyard, Fawley, Hampshire. His logbook showed five confirmed victories and two enemy damaged.

NOEL DOUGLAS HARDING 116522

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

29 Squadron

Harding joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (745929). Called up on September 1, he completed his gunnery training and was with 29 Squadron at Digby in June 1940 and served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. When 29’s Blenheims were replaced by Beaufighters in November 1940, he retrained as a Radar Operator, later becoming a Radio Observer and then a Navigator Wireless. Commissioned in February 1942, Harding later transferred to the Administrative Branch. He was released from the RAF in 1945. He died in 2004. PO 9.2.42 FO 1.10.42

HARRY GORDON HARDMAN APO 14.12.38 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40

40535

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

Pilot

Australian

111 Squadron

Hardman was born at Arncliffe, New South Wales on May 4 1915. He finished school in England at Coltingham Commercial College at Bexleyheath. In the mid-1930s Hardman learned to fly at the Brooklands Aero Club.

JACK HARDCASTLE 627887

FO

219 Squadron

Hardcastle joined the RAF in November 1938, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG.

In 1937 he joined the RAF, as a candidate for a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 25 1937. Hardman was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on March 5 1938, where he completed his intermediate and advanced training. He joined 111 Squadron at Northolt on September 17 1938. He was posted to RAF Northolt from 111 on March 10 1939, for Ops duties. Hardman went to 11 Group Pool, St Athan on February 1 1940, for further training. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on April 29. He was posted to PDC, Uxbridge on May 15 1940, for allocation to a squadron abroad. No trace of Hardman’s whereabouts can be found before July 7 1940, when he rejoined 111Squadron, then at Croydon.

After completing his training, he joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on July 13 1940. He flew his last sortie with 219 on July 29. Later he moved to 105 Squadron at Watton, a Blenheim unit engaged in attacks on ports and airfields in France. He flew his first operational sortie with the squadron on September 14 1940. Hardcastle was killed in an accident on October 28 1940, serving with 105 Squadron. He is buried in Whitkirk Cemetery, Leeds, Yorkshire.

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He was attached to RAF Kenley on July 17, for a short instuctional course, but did not rejoin 111 until August 10. He damaged a Do 17 on August 13, one of a force which attacked the aerodrome at Eastchurch. His last operational sortie with 111 was made on August 23, a patrol. Hardman left the squadron on September 8 1940, probably to go for an instructors’ course. He rejoined 111 at Dyce on January 3 1941 but seems to have been posted away to Training Command soon afterwards. Hardman was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Squadron Leader.

MAXWELL TEMPLETON HARE

APO 19.2.38 PO 25.10.38 FO 6.12.39 FL 6.12.40 SL 1.1.44

He then went to 5 OTU, Aston Down, converted to Hurricanes and joined 245 Squadron at Aldergrove on October 4. He moved to 605 Squadron at Croydon on December 1 1940. On June 7 1941 Hare joined 615 Squadron at Valley. He left on an overseas posting on June 20 and embarked on the carrier HMS Furious, bound for Malta. On the 30th his was the second Hurricane to take off from the carrier. Half way along the deck he swerved, hit the navigating position, his long range tanks burst and the petrol caught fire. Three naval men were killed and fourteen naval and nine RAF men were injured. Some of the injured died later. Hare died from his injuries. He was 19 and is buried in the North Front Cemetery, Gibraltar.

758138

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

Pilot

British

600 Squadron

Hardwick joined 601 Squadron, AAF about October 1938, as an Aircrafthand. Called to full-time service on August 24 1939, he remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG and after completing his training, he was on 600 Squadron in June 1940, serving with it in the Battle of Britain. With the advent of the Beaufighter and airborne radar, Hardwick and other air gunners were posted away to Bomber Command in late 1940. He was serving as a rear gunner with 44 Squadron at Waddington in 1942, operating in Lancasters. He was a member of the CO’s crew. Hardwick was released from the RAF in 1945 and in November of that year he was commissioned in the Training Branch of the RAFVR and he later commanded the Air Training Corps in Ilford. (Officer No 202458). He took his own life in 1972.

FREDERICK NORMAN HARGREAVES 42502

PO

Pilot

British

OSWALD ANTHONY HARDY Sgt

Air Gunner

British

92 Squadron

Hargreaves joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying on June 26 1939, as a pupil pilot. After completing his training, he was posted to 92 Squadron at Croydon on March 22 1940.

APO (RAFVR) 18.11.45 PO (RAFVR) 1.7.46 FO (RAFVR) 28.6.54

133487

245 Squadron

Hare joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he did his elementary flying training at 13 EFTS, White Waltham. He moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 21 Course, which ran from June 10 to September 7 1940.

WILLIAM ROBERT HARROLD HARDWICK 801495

Sgt

264 Squadron

Having lost his bearings during night flying from Bibury on August 27, Hargreaves baled out and landed at Red House Farm, Blaxhall. His aircraft, Spitfire P 9548, crashed near Marlesford, Suffolk. Hargreaves failed to return from a combat over Dungeness on September 11 and he was reported ‘Missing’, in Spitfire, K 9793. Hargreaves was 21 and he is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 8.

Hardy joined the RAFVR in September 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner (968245). With training completed, he joined 264 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey in early August 1940. On the 28th he was in Defiant N 1569, flying with Pilot Officer J R A Bailey, when it was severely damaged in combat with Bf 109s of JG 26. Bailey made a forced-landing at Court Lodge Farm, Petham. In the engagement they damaged a He 111. In 1941 Hardy broke both legs, baling out over London, after being shot down by antiaircraft fire. He twice became a member of the GQ Parachute Club, baling out on both occasions at night, using the same GQ Parasuit, the special parachute equipment for Defiant crews. Commissioned in August 1942, he was awarded the DFC (23.3.45), as a Flight Lieutenant with 550 Squadron, operating in Lancasters. Hardy was released from the RAF in 1947 as a Squadron Leader.

APO 19.8.39 PO 10.2.40

ALAN STUART HARKER 63791

Sgt

Pilot

British

234 Squadron

Born in Bolton, Lancashire, he joined the RAFVR in October 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740826) and carried out his early training at 18 E&RFTS, Fair Oaks.

PO 31.8.42 FO 3.3.43 FL 31.8.44

RICHARD HARDY

He moved on to 6 FTS, Little Rissington for No 12 Course, which ran from May 1 to November 6 1939. After completing his training, he joined the newly-reformed 234 Squadron at Leconfield on November 6. On August 8 Hardy damaged a Do 17. In combat with enemy fighters off Swanage on August 15 1940, his Spitfire, N 3277, was severely damaged. He was forced to land by Bf 109s near Cherbourg and was captured. In May 1941 Hardy is believed to have been on the ‘permanent staff ’ at Dulag Luft (Transit Camp-Air), a temporary holding centre for captured Allied airmen at Oberursel, near Frankfurt. On June 1 1941 18 PoWs, including 14 British members of the camp ‘permanent staff ’, tunnelled their way out of Dulag Luft. All were recaptured after an extensive search by 3,000 police and security personnel. Hardy was probably one of these escapees. At some time he was in Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan (PoW No 3595). Freed in May 1945 and released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant.

Called up on September 1 1939, he was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on September 12 for No 13 Course for advanced training on Ansons. Later Harker volunteered for night fighters and was posted to the newly-reformed 234 Squadron at Leconfield on November 5 1939. Its Blenheims were exchanged for Spitfires in May 1940. On August 8 Harker claimed a share in a probable Ju 88, on the 18th he destroyed two Bf 109s, on September 4 destroyed a Bf 110, on the 6th two Bf 109s destroyed and another two probables, on the 7th a Bf 109 destroyed, another probably destroyed and another damaged, on the 22nd a Ju 88 destroyed and on October 15 a Ju 88 damaged. He was awarded the DFM (22.10.40) and commissioned in March 1941. During a low-level attack by He 111s on Warmwell on April 1 1941, Harker was wounded in the arm. He was shot down on a convoy patrol near Weymouth on May 19 and crash-landed in a field near Warmwell. Harker was posted to 53 OTU Llandow on August 4 1941, as a Flight Commander. He went to CGS, Sutton Bridge on June 27 1942, as an instructor, and moved to Llanbedr in December 1943, to form a Rocket Projectile School. On July 5 1944 Harker was posted to Italy, where he served as an MT Officer with a mobile radar unit and later as an Operations Officer with US Liberator and Polish supplydropping squadrons. He was released from the RAF in November 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. Harker died on August 6 1996.

APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41

PO 19.3.41 FO 19.3.42 FL 19.3.43

41921

PO

Pilot

British

234 Squadron

Hardy joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on February 6 1939, as a pupil pilot. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on April 15 for an induction course.

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HILL HARKNESS 29208

SL

Pilot

Irish

After rejoining 17 Squadron, Harper retained command of ‘A’ Flight on the ground and in the air the Flight was led by Flying Officer M B Czernin. Harper did not resume flying until November 1 1940 and on the 8th he destroyed a Ju 87 and probably another. On March 23 1941 he was posted to 57 OTU, Hawarden, to instruct. In October Harper was posted to the Far East and on December 15 1941 he took command of 453 (RAAF) Squadron at Ipoh, there to defend ships of the Eastern Fleet and it was heavily engaged in battles. The pilots courageously fought until there were only five aircraft left and 453 moved back to Kuala Lumpur. In spite of replacements, only three Buffalos were still serviceable on December 22 1941. 21 and 453 Squadron were combined as 21/453 at Singapore on December 24, under Harper’s command. It retired to Batavia in February 1942 and was disbanded on arrival at Adelaide on March 15. Harper did not go to Australia but left the squadron at Colombo and was posted to India. He commanded 135 Squadron at Dum Dum in June/July 1942 and 92 Squadron in North Africa from January to May 1943. Harper retired from the RAF on April 22 1949. He emigrated to Rhodesia and began farming but turned to mining and started an earth-moving business. In May 1958 he was elected to the Southern Rhodesian Parliament, as Member for Gatooma. Harper became President of the Dominion Party in 1959. He resigned on February 2 1962, to coordinate opposition to the United Federal Party Government. When the Rhodesian Front came to power on December 17 1962, Harper became a Cabinet Minister. On April 13 1964, when Ian Smith was elected, Harper was appointed Minister of Internal Affairs. He split with Smith on July 4 1968, resigned as an MP and left the Rhodesian Front Party. He was out of public life until February 1972, when he became one of the founders of the United Front Party. Harper was noted for his strong views on white supremacy. He died on September 8 2006.

257 Squadron

Harkness joined the RAF on a short service commission in December 1930. He was posted to 2 FTS, Digby on January 10 1931 and, with training completed, he went to 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on December 29 1931. He joined the staff at the School of Naval Co-operation at Lee-on-Solent on January 6 1935 and at the end of his engagement he went on to Class ‘A’ of the RAFO on December 29 1937. Recalled in October 1939, Harkness went to 12 FTS, Grantham on November 13, as a Flight Commander of the Intermediate Training Squadron. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge for a refresher course on June 8 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, Harkness was posted to 257 Squadron at Hendon on July 6, as a supernumerary, and he took command at Northolt on July 22 1940. He probably destroyed a Do 17 on August 12 and shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 on the 13th. He was posted away on September 12 1940 to the A&AEE, Boscombe Down, for flying duties. He went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on October 1 1940 and joined 10 FTS, Ternhill on October 24, as OC 2 Squadron. Harkness resigned his commission on December 4 1943. PO 29.12.30 FO 29.8.32 FL 1.4.36 FL (RAFO) 29.12.37 FL 16.10.39 SL 1.6.40

THOMAS PATRICK HARNETT 41347

FO

Pilot

Canadian

219 Squadron APO 5.9.37 PO 12.7.38 FO 12.2.40 FL 12.2.41 SL 1.3.42 SL 1.8.47

Harnett, of Moncton, joined the RCAF on January 3 1938 and transferred to the RAF on November 6 1938. An entry in the logbook of Flight Sergeant John Lingard of No 25 Squadron indicates that Sergeant HARRIS made a qualifying flight on July 13 1940.

His first posting after FTS was to 5 Armament Training Station, Penrhos on April 1 1939. 5 ATS was redesignated 9 Air Observer School on September 9 1939. Harnett joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on December 5 1939. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on September 13 1940 and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on the 22nd. Harnett was posted away to 14 FTS, Cranfield on November 25 1940, as an instructor. He was posted back to Canada in January 1941, again as an instructor. On November 11 1943 he transferred back to the RCAF (C 799). In September 1944 Harnett went to India, to form and command 435 (RCAF) Squadron, which flew Dakotas on supply drops to the 14th Army. He was awarded the DFC (19.10.45). Harnett was released from the RCAF on September 10 1946 as a Wing Commander. He died on December 19 1985.

PATRICK ARTHUR HARRIS 86328

PO

Pilot

British

111 and 3 Squadrons

Harris, of Ash Vale, Surrey, was a member of the University of London Air Squadron until June 30 1939, when he joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754808). Called up on September 1, he completed his training on August 30 1940 and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 1. Harris converted to Hurricanes and joined 111 Squadron on September 29. This was an error. The posting signal was really for 3 Squadron but on it the ‘3’ was written in Roman numerals. Harris went on to 3 Squadron at Turnhouse on the 30th. He was killed on June 17 1941, as a Pilot Officer with 56 Squadron. Harris was 20 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 33.

PO 6.11.38 FO 6.6.40 FL 6.6.41

PO 31.8.40

WILLIAM JOHN HARPER

ANTHONY ROBERT JAMES HARRISON

40110

812347

FO

Pilot

British

17 Squadron

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

219 Squadron

Harrison joined 500 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and after completing his training, he joined 219 Squadron at Catterick in July 1940, serving with it throughout the Battle of Britain.

Born in Calcutta on July 22 1916, Harper was educated at North Point, India and Windsor, England. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 12 1937. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on September 5 1937 for a short induction course. He was posted to 6 FTS, Netheravon on September 18 for intermediate and advanced training and on completion of the course he joined the staff at RAF Leuchars on May 7 1938. Harper was on 17 Squadron by September 1 1939. On May 18 1940 he shared in the destruction of a Bf 110, on the 25th he destroyed a Ju 87 and on May 26 he was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant, after the incumbent was shot down. Over Dunkirk on May 29 Harper destroyed a Bf 110. Harper relinquished his command and acting rank, when Flight Lieutenant A W A Bayne joined the squadron on June 8 1940. However Harper was re-appointed Acting Flight Lieutenant and made ‘A’ Flight Commander on July 4. On August 11 Harper shared in probably destroying a Bf 110 and he damaged a Bf 109. On the 15th Harper was flying one of six Hurricanes airborne to intercept 20+ German fighters. The six were reduced to three by order of Control, Harper, Sergeant G Griffiths and Pilot Officer G E Pittman. In the event Harper alone made contact. After attacking and probably destroying a Bf 109, his Hurricane, P 3891, was badly damaged and, with a dead engine, Harper made a crash-landing near Laurel Farm, Felixstowe. He was admitted to Felixstowe Cottage Hospital, with face and leg wounds.

In late 1940, after the advent of Beaufighters and airborne radar, Harrison was one of many air gunners who were posted to Bomber Command. He went to 149 Squadron at Mildenhall. During the night of July 1/2 1941 Harrison was in Wellington R 1343, detailed to attack targets at Brest. The aircraft was shot down and crashed in the target area and may have been the one which crashed alongside the Prinz Eugen, causing more that sixty casualties to her crew. Harrison was 20. He is buried in Kerfautras Cemetery, Brest.

DAVID STEWART HARRISON 83290

PO

Pilot

British

238 Squadron

Born in Sidcup, Kent on June 10 1911, Harrison went to Tonbridge School. He joined the RAFVR on January 16 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742815). Called up on September 1 1939, Harrison was posted to 4 ITW on December 13 and went to 9 FTS Hullavington on May 11 1940.

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on December 28 1938, as a pupil pilot at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty. On March 4 1939 Hart went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, for a short induction course. He moved to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 11 Course, which ran from March 20 to October 14 1939. With the course completed, Hart was posted to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum, for further training. After this he was put into a Lysander Pilots’ Pool at Old Sarum. He was injured in a road accident, which kept him off flying until he was attached to 614 Squadron at Odiham on April 29 1940. The attachment ceased on May 6 and Hart was taken on to the strength of 614 Squadron. On July 12 1940 he was was posted to 613 Squadron at Netherthorpe. Hart may have volunteered for Fighter Command because he arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 22. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on September 3 and moved to 602 Squadron at Westhampnett on the 20th. On October 10 Hart shared in the probable destruction of a Ju 88, on the 29th he destroyed a Bf 109 and on November 13 he shared a Ju 88. Hart moved to 91 Squadron at Hawkinge on March 6 1941. He damaged a Ju 88 on April 28 and at some time later he rejoined 602. His operational tour ended in October 1941 and Hart went to 57 OTU, Hawarden, as an instructor. In August 1942 Hart was posted to India. He went via South Africa, where he was delayed, not arriving at Bombay until January 25 1943. He joined 79 Squadron at Ramu on February 7. He served with it until May 9 1943, when he was given command of 67 Squadron at Alipore. In July 1943 Hart was posted away to Air HQ Bengal, as a Staff Officer, staying there until June 1944, when he began his third tour of operations, with 113 Squadron at Palel. Hart was again posted away in September 1944, to 73 OTU at Abu Sueir in Egypt, where he commanded the Gunnery School. In April 1945 he took command of 112 Squadron at Cervia in Italy. He was awarded the DFC (22.6.45), returned to the UK in August 1945 and was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader. Hart returned to Canada and took up real estate work in Vancouver. He retired in 1976.

He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 17, converted to Hurricanes and then joined 238 Squadron at Middle Wallop on September 12. Harrison made a forced-landing outside Padstock on the 25th, after a combat with enemy aircraft. He was shot down by Bf 109s over the Solent on September 28 1940. His Hurricane, P 3836, went into the sea. His body was washed ashore at Brighton on October 9 and he was buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Tangmere. Harrison is honoured on a plaque at Tonbridge School, unveiled on November 26 2003. PO 17.8.40

JOHN HOWARD HARRISON 75677

PO

Pilot

British

145 Squadron

Born in Mitcham, Surrey on November 11 1917, Harrison was educated at Rutlish School, Merton and Wimbledon Technical College. He left the Territorial Army for the RAFVR in February 1938 and, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741322), he began flying at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham. In January 1939 Harrison left his job with the International Model Aircraft Co, to go to Marshall’s Flying School at Kidlington, to train as a flying instructor. He obtained his ‘A’ licence in June 1939 (No 19407). Called up on September 1 1939, he went to 11 Group Pool, St Athan for further training, converted to Hurricanes and then went to No 1 AAS, Manby, for an armament course. Harrison arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 15 1940, converted to Hurricanes and joined 145 Squadron at Westhampnett on July 31 1940. He failed to return from a combat with Ju 88s and Bf 110s S of the Isle of Wight on August 12 and was reported ‘Missing’. He had been in a section of three, with two Polish pilots. They attacked and shot down a Bf 110 into the sea. The incident was seen by Bf 109 pilots of 1/JG 53. They attacked the Hurricanes and shot down the Section Leader, Flight Lieutenant W Pankratz. Harrison and the other pilot, Flight Sergeant J Kwiecinski, were both shot down immediately afterwards. No claim was ever made for the Bf 110 shot down, all three 145 pilots having been killed. Harrison is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 8.

APO 4.3.39 PO 2.10.39 FO 2.10.40 FL 2.10.41 SL 1.7.45

KENNETH GRAHAM HART 42222

FREDERICK CECIL HARROLD PO

Pilot

British

APO 18.9.3 PO 24.4.40

JOHN STEWART HART Pilot

65 Squadron

On June 24 he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge for a short induction course. Hart moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 12 Course, which ran from July 10 to December 9 1939. He arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on December 28 and after converting to Spitfires, he was posted to 65 Squadron at Northolt on January 25 1940. On a patrol to Dunkirk on May 22, Hart’s engine burst into flames and he made a crash-landing at North Foreland and the aircraft burned out. On the 26th Hart destroyed a Bf 109 and was himself shot down. He made a crash-landing, on a beach at Dunkirk, and returned to England by ship. On June 25 1940 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed over Abbeville, on July 5 he shared a He 111 and on August 12 claimed another Bf 109 destroyed. On this day Hart’s Spitfire, R 6712 was slightly damaged in a bombing attack on Hornchurch, when his engine was stopped by blast on point of take-off. He was unhurt. He made a forced-landing on Havengore Island, Foulness on August 20, in Spitfire R 6818, after his engine was damaged in combat over the Thames Estuary. Hart probably destroyed a Bf 110 on August 24. 65 Squadron was sent for a rest to RAF Turnhouse on August 28. Hart reported as noneffective sick on October 27 1940. On November 5 he is believed to have claimed a share in the destruction of a He 111 over London but this does not appear in the Claims and Casualties list. In March 1941 he went to 59 OTU, as an instructor, moved soon afterwards to 55 OTU and in July 1941 he moved to 60 OTU at Leconfield. Hart was posted to 250 Squadron in the Western Desert in November 1941. On December 4 he destroyed a Mc 200 and damaged a Bf 110, on the 7th damaged a Ju 88, on the 11th destroyed a Bf 109, damaged another and shared a Ju 88, on January 7 1942 he damaged a SM 79 and on the 22nd shared a Bf 110. Tour-expired, Hart was awarded the DFC (20.1.42), being then credited with at least eight enemy aircraft destroyed. In February 1942 Hart was posted to 71 OTU at Gordon’s Tree, Sudan, as an instructor. He went to 94 Squadron at El Gamil on August 10 1942 but returned to 71 OTU on September 20. In February 1944 he was posted from HQ Desert Air Force to command 18 Squadron

He completed his training and went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 7 1940. On the 12th Harrold crashed in Blenheim L 1177 at Maiden Bradley, Wiltshire and on the 15th he crashed Blenheim L 6597 into the River Severn. After converting to Blenheims, Harrold joined 25 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on August 19. He moved to 151 Squadron at Stapleford on the 26th and then to 501 Squadron at Kenley on September 26. On the 28th Harrold was shot down by Bf 109s and killed. His Hurricane, P 3417, crashed at the Strawberry Plantations, College House, Ulcombe and burned out. It was his third operational sortie. Harrold was 23 years old. He is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Cherry Hinton, Cambridgeshire.

FO

British

25,151 and 501 Squadrons

Harrold was born in Romford, Essex in 1917. The family moved to Cambridge, where he was educated at the County School and worked in the University Library. He was a well known member of the Cambridge Town Rowing Club. Harrold joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 24 1939.

41696

Pilot

Hart was born in Norbury, South London on April 24 1921. He was educated at Norbury Manor Junior School and the Heath Clark Central School. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 1 1939 at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham.

PO 24.12.39

42707

PO

Canadian

54 and 602 Squadrons

Hart, of Sackville, New Brunswick, was born in September 1916. He was at Mount Allison University and learned to fly at Halifax Flying Club. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio flying training

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operational sortie during the Battle of Britain period, on October 11, by which time he held the rank of Sergeant. With the advent of Beaufighters and Airborne Interception, many air gunners were posted away to bomber squadrons. Hatton’s name last appears in the 604 ORB on October 26 1940. He joined 149 Squadron at Mildenhall at some later date, to operate in Wellingtons. Hatton failed to return from an operation to Berlin on September 8 1941, in Wellington X 9705. He and five other crew members are buried in the Reichswald Forest War Cemetery, Germany. Hatton is remembered on a memorial plaque at Whitgift School.

in Italy. He was killed on December 28 1944, on a night intruder sortie in Boston BZ 557, to bomb the aerodrome at Villafranca. His aircraft was hit by flak and went down in flames. Hart was 23. He is buried in Coriano Ridge War Cemetery, Italy. APO 24.6.39 PO 27.12.39 FO 27.12.40 FL 27.12.41

NORRIS HART 81879

PO

Pilot

Canadian

242 Squadron

Hart was born in Montreal and brought up in Hamilton. He arrived in England and joined 242 Squadron at Coltishall on July 18 1940. Lacking Hurricane experience, he was immediately attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down for further training. After converting to Hurricanes, he rejoined 242 on August 12.

RALPH EDWARD HAVERCROFT 114000

Sgt

Pilot

PO 7.7.40

Havercroft was attached to 41 Squadron at Catterick from May 1 to July 10, for Spitfire instruction, after which he returned to his job with a Hull cement company. Called up on September 1 1939, Havercroft went to 11 Group Pool, St Athan on the 2nd. He converted to Blenheims and was posted to 604 Squadron on the 15th. His short stature made flying the Blenheim difficult and on March 14 1940 Havercroft went to 92 Squadron at Croydon, on Spitfires. On May 23, Havercroft claimed a Bf 110 destroyed, another damaged and a Ju 87 probably destroyed and on the 24th he got a probable Do 17. On July 8 he damaged a Do 17 and on August 13 shared a Ju 88. The next day he destroyed a Ju 88 but during the action NW of Cardiff the radiator of his Spitfire, N 3285, was hit by return fire and he made an engineless forced-landing on Maerdy Mountain, near Aberdare. On September 18 he damaged a Bf 109 and on November 13 he shared in damaging a Do 17. Havercroft got a probable Bf 109 on June 21 1941 and destroyed another on the 26th. On July 15 1941, with 181 operational sorties completed, he was appointed test pilot to the Aircraft Gun Mounting Establishment at Duxford. Commissioned in November 1941, Havercroft moved to Boscombe Down, when his unit was incorporated into the A&AEE on January 18 1942. He was then with the Armament Testing Squadron for two years. In April 1944 Havercroft was selected to go to the newly-formed Test Pilots’ School, on No 2 Course, after which he joined the team of test pilots at Vickers Supermarine, testing production Spitfires. He returned later to Boscombe Down, to the Performance Testing Squadron and in 1945 was appointed as test pilot to the British Air Commission at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, near Dayton, Ohio. In 1946 Havercroft was granted an RAF Permanent Commission and returned as a tutor to the Test Pilots’ School. He held a series of commands and appointments in the post-war RAF, including command of a 543 Squadron, equipped with Vickers Valiants modified for photo reconnaissance. Awarded the AFC (1.1.49), he retired on June 4 1963 as a Wing Commander. He then worked for Hunting Engineering until 1981. Havercroft died in May 1995.

PETER McDONNELL HARTAS FO

Pilot

British

616 and 603 Squadrons, 421 Flt

Hartas joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 6 1938, as a pupil pilot. With flying training completed, he joined 3 Air Observer School, Aldergrove on October 10 1939, as a staff pilot. The unit was redesignated 3 B&GS on November 1 1939. In 1940 Hartas was with 4 Ferry Pilot Pool, before being posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 3. After converting to Spitfires, he was posted to 616 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on the 16th and moved to 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on the 24th. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on October 2. Hartas joined 421 Flight on October 7 1940, when it was formed at Hawkinge. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed over the Channel on December 1, damaged a Ju 88 on the 12th and shared in damaging a Bf 110 off Dover on the 18th. This aircraft made a crash-landing near Calais. On January 11 1941 421 Flight was renumbered 91 Squadron. Hartas was killed on February 10 in an accidental crash in Spitfire DL-W, as a Flying Officer with the squadron. Hartas was 21 and is buried in Folkestone New Cemetery. APO 14.12.38 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40

DOUGLAS HASTINGS 42406

PO

Pilot

British

74 Squadron

Hastings, of North Shields, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 12 1939. He completed his training and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on April 28 1940. He converted to Hurricanes and was posted on May 15 to PDC, Uxbridge for allocation to a squadron in France. This did not happen and he joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on May 24 1940. Hastings shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on July 24, claimed a Bf 109 damaged on August 11, a Do 17 destroyed and another damaged on the 13th and a Ju 88 probably destroyed and a Bf 110 damaged on September 11. During a flight, making practice attacks over Coltishall, on October 8 1940, Hastings collided with Pilot Officer F W Buckland and was killed when he crashed, inverted, S of Green Farm, Gillingham, in Spitfire P 7329. Buckland was also killed. Hastings was 25. He is buried in Preston Cemetery, Tynemouth. His brother, Frank, was killed, serving as a 2nd Officer in the Merchant Navy on December 28 1942, aged 31. He was lost when the SS Treworlas was torpedoed by the U 124 in the Atlantic. He is remembered on the Tower Hill Memorial, London.

PO 17.11.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 17.11.43 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.1.55

JOHN KENNETH HAVILAND 82690

Air Gunner

British

Pilot

American

151 Squadron

Called up on September 1, Haviland was posted to No 1 ITW at Pembroke College, Cambridge in November. He did his elementary flying training at 7 EFTS, Desford and moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 19 Course, which ran from April 11 to July 24 1940. With the course completed, he was commissioned and then went to the No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum on July 27. In August 1940 Haviland volunteered for Fighter Command and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 4, from No 1 SAC. After converting to Hurricanes, Haviland joined 151 Squadron at Digby on the 23rd. The following day he collided with another Hurricane, during formation practice, and made a forced-landing in a paddock at Waddington. He was still on 151 on November 3 1940. After leaving 151, Haviland became an instructor. He did two further tours, on intruder

EDWARD CHRISTOPHER HATTON Sgt

PO

Born on January 19 1921 in Mount Kisco, New York, Haviland was the son of a US Navy officer and an English mother. He spent most of his early life in England, starting school there at the age of five. He went to Nottingham University at 17. After obtaining his ‘A’ Licence, he joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754559).

APO 5.8.39 PO 6.4.40

930965

92 Squadron

Born on June 4 1916, Havercroft joined the RAFVR in April 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740168). He trained at 4 E&RFTS, Brough and had 250 hours flying by April 1939 when, being of suitable standard and experience, he took the opportunity to train with the regular RAF.

He claimed a He 111 destroyed on August 30, a Bf 109 on September 15 and two Ju 88s on the 18th. Hart did not return from a combat with Bf 109s off Sheerness on November 5 1940, in Hurricane P 2806. He was 25 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 8.

41407

British

604 Squadron

Hatton was educated at Whitgift School, Croydon. He enlisted in the RAFVR in early 1940. He was with 604 Squadron by June 6 1940, as an LAC Air Gunner. He flew one

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in 1948, he later lost his flying category because of an eyesight problem and retired from the RAF on September 19 1951, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. As a holder of the Order of Lenin, Haw was invited to Moscow in 1985 to attend the celebrations marking the 40th Anniversary of the end of the war. He died in 1993.

and bomber-support operations, and was awarded the DFC (16.2.45), as a Flight Lieutenant with 141 Squadron. He was released from the RAF on December 3 1945, completed his degree and moved to Canada, where he served in the RCAF Reserve, flying Vampires. He later became a Professor at the School of Engineering, University of Virginia, involved in aerospace projects. Haviland died in 2003.

PO 6.3.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 17.5.43 FL 10.2.46 PO 27.7.40 FO 27.7.41 FL 27.7.42

PETER SYDNEY HAWKE RICHARD HAVILAND HAVILAND 76571

PO

Pilot

South African

126862

Sgt

Pilot

British

64 and 19 Squadrons

248 Squadron Hawke was born on August 13 1918 at Reading, Berkshire. He joined the RAFVR in November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742435) and did his weekend flying at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley.

Haviland was born in 1913 in South Africa and studied civil engineering at Witwatersrand Universiy, obtaining a private pilots’ licence while a student. He came to the UK in 1937 and worked for the Mowlem construction company. He joined the RAFVR about August 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740716). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 13 Course, which ran from September 9 to November 6 1939, for advanced training only. He joined 248 Squadron at Hendon on November 6 as a Sergeant-Pilot. Haviland was commissioned on December 1 1939. From July 14 1940 the squadron was based at Sumburgh. On August 7 1940 he ditched in the sea off St Abb’s Head, due to lack of fuel, after a reconnaisence sortie to Trondheim. The crew was picked up by a trawler and landed at South Shields. The aircraft was salvaged. Haviland was killed in a flying accident on August 28 1940. He was flying the squadron Magister on an air experience flight with AC 2 Roy Moon. During aerobatics the aircraft hit the ground. Moon was also killed. Haviland was 27 and was cremated at the Aberdeen Crematorium. Moon was buried in Lerwick New Cemetery.

Called up on September 1 1939, he went to 4 ITW, Bexhill on November 22 and then to 10 FTS, Ternhill on February 1 1940. With training completed, Hawke went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 6, converted to Spitfires and joined 64 Squadron at Kenley on the 27th. He damaged a Bf 109 on August 8 1940, probably destroyed a Do 17 on the 12th and claimed a He 111 destroyed on the 18th. Hawke moved to 19 Squadron at Duxford on September 20. He was posted to CFS, Upavon on November 9 1940, for an instructor’s course. He instructed at 8 EFTS, Woodley from December 1940 until December 1941, when he went to 6 FIS, Staverton. Commissioned in June 1942, Hawke was posted to 2 EFTS, Worcester on July 22, moving to 29 EFTS, Clyffe Pypard on September 16 1942. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.46). Hawke was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on May 12 1988.

PO 1.12.39

PO 1.6.42 FO 1.12.42 FL 1.6.44

CHARLTON HAW 117992

Sgt

STANLEY NELSON HAWKE

Pilot British

504 Squadronn

804142

Sgt

Air Gunner

British 604 Squadron

Born on May 8 1920 in York, Haw was an apprentice lithographer. He joined the RAFVR in February 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745249) and began his training at 4 E&RFTS, Brough.

Hawke, of Stockwell, London, joined 604 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand. Called up on August 24 1939, he trained as an Air Gunner and was a Corporal Air Gunner with 604 Squadron by January 1940.

Called up on September 1 1939, Haw was posted to 4 ITW, Bexhill in October and in December he went to 5 FTS, Sealand. He was on No 45 Course, which ran from December 11 1939 to June 10 1940. After the course was completed, Haw was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge but he was sent directly to 504 Squadron at Wick on June 10 1940. On September 27 Haw claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and was himself shot down in combat over Bristol and landed at Gammons Farm, Kilmington, Axminster, unhurt. In late July 1941 ‘A’ Flight of 504 was renumbered 81 Squadron and posted to Leconfield. The personnel were kitted out for an unknown overseas destination. They were flown to Abbotsinch in Harrows and embarked on the aircraft carrier HMS Argus for Russia, with a cargo of crated Hurricanes. On September 1 the squadron flew off in sixes for Vaenga airfield, near Murmansk. On September 12 and 17 Haw destroyed two Bf 109s and a third later in the month. Operations continued until mid-November, when pilots of the squadron began converting Russian pilots to Hurricanes. The personnel of 81 Squadron left Russia on November 29 1941, leaving all equipment behind and returned in HMS Kenya, landing at Rosyth on December 7. Haw was awarded the DFM (23.1.42) and the Order of Lenin (31.3.42), one of four given to RAF pilots by the Russians. 81 Squadron went to Turnhouse, where it received Spitfire Vbs. Haw was commissioned in March 1942 and rejoined 504 for a short time but was posted to 122 Squadron at Hornchurch. On February 17 1943 he was given command of 611 Squadron at Biggin Hill. On April 21 1943 Haw was posted away and in May he was sent on a tour of factories, speaking to workers. In July he was posted to the Fighter Leaders’ School at Milfield. In November 1943 he returned to operations, when he took command of 129 Squadron at Hornchurch, leading it until July 1944, when he returned to the Fighter Leaders’ School. Haw was awarded the DFC (17.10.44). He was posted to Wittering in October 1944, to a unit which became the Central Fighter Establishment and moved to Tangmere in December 1944. Haw commanded 65 Squadron from 1946 to 1948. Granted a Permanent Commission

He was detached from 604 to CGS, Warmwell on January 20 1940, for an Air Gunnery Instructor course. With this completed, he rejoined the squadron on February 9. Hawke was promoted to Sergeant on May 24 1940. He served with 604 Squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. In the late evening of May 4 1941 Hawke and Pilot Officer P F Jackson shot down a Ju 88, which crashed at East Burton, Dorset. On May 29 1941 Hawke went with Jackson and an Australian pilot, who was new to the squadron, on an air-sea firing exercise at Chesil Beach. Whilst they were there, clouds came in from the sea, blanketing the Dorset hills. Instead of climbing above them, Jackson flew through and crashed on high ground, killing all three men. Hawke was 25. He is buried in Streatham Park Cemetery, Mitcham.

REDVERS PERCIVAL HAWKINGS 748627

Sgt

Pilot

British

601 Squadron

Hawkings joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called to full-time service on September 1 and completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 44 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 20 1940. He joined 601 Squadron at Tangmere direct from 5 FTS and made his first flight on May 21, Hurricane experience. On July 7 Hawkings shared in destroying a Do 17, on the 11th he probably destroyed a He 111, on August 11 he probably destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 13th he destroyed a Ju 88, probably another and damaged a Ju 88 and two Bf 110s. Hawkings was shot down over the Sussex coast on August 18 1940 and killed. His Hurricane, L 1990, crashed off Summer Lane, Nyetimber, Pagham, Sussex. He was 22. He is buried in St Peter’s churchyard, Filton, Gloucestershire.

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FREDERICK BERNARD HAWLEY 748286

Sgt

Pilot

British

took part in Operation Torch, the landings in North Africa. In August 1944 he was appointed Wing Leader 47 Wing, operating from Victorious against the Japanese in Sumatra. In December 1944 Hay was made Air Co-ordinator to the 1st Aircraft Carrier Squadron and led all the strikes against oil refineries and airfields. On one occasion he attacked a train most of which was in a tunnel. He was awarded the DSO (1.5.45) for gallantry in air strikes against oil tanks at Palembang and a Bar to the DSC (31.7.45). He returned to the Royal Marines after the war but transferred to the Royal Navy in 1947. Hay retired in November 1966 as a Commander and died in 2001.

266 Squadron

Hawley, of Coventry, joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot, and did his pre-war training at 22 E&RFTS, Cambridge. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 3 FTS, South Cerney on No 31 Course, which ran from November 20 1939 to May 20 1940. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 21. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on June 12. On August 15 he was reported ‘Missing’, following the destruction of a He 115 off Dunkirk and probably crashed into the sea, in Spitfire N 3189. Hawley was 23. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 15.

2nd Lt (RM) 1.9.35 Lt (RM) 1.10.37 Capt (RM) 16.11.42 Actg Major (RM) 1944 Actg Lt-Col (RM) 1945 Lt-Cdr (RN) 1.9.47 Cdr (RN) 30.6.55

LAWRENCE HAMILTON HAYDEN 67041

JOSEPH FREDERICK JOHN HAWORTH 39734

FO

Pilot

British

Sgt

Air Gunner

He teamed up with Pilot Officer T D Welsh. Off Dunkirk on May 27 they shared in the destruction of a He 111 and on the 29th destroyed a Bf 109, a Bf 110 and two Ju 87s. On August 24 they destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged a Bf 109 in the Hornchurch area. 264 Squadron went over to night fighting from September 1940. During the night of March 12/13 1941 Hayden and Welsh shot down a He 111 S of Hastings. Hayden was awarded the DFM and Welsh the DFC (11.2.41). Commissioned in May 1941, Hayden was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant.

On June 11 1940 Haworth was posted to 43 Squadron at Tangmere. Investigating a He 115 S of the Needles on July 20, he was shot down into the sea, in Hurricane P 3964. He baled out but was never found. He was 23. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 5. APO 18.5.37 PO 15.3.38 FO 15.11.39

IAN BRUCE DAVID ERROLL HAY FO

Pilot

South African

611 Squadron

17.5.43

Born in Johannesburg on June 4 1916, Hay was at Rugby School from 1930 to 1933. He obtained his ‘A’ Licence in 1934 and joined the Cambridge University Air Squadron in 1937, when he was at Trinity Hall, reading Mechanical Sciences.

HERBERT LEONARD HAYES 20175

Commissioned in the RAFVR in September 1938, Hay was called up on September 1 1939. He was posted to 6 FTS, Little Rissington for No 15 Course, which ran from October 9 1939 to April 27 1940. Hay joined 611 Squadron at Digby on May 4, direct from 6 FTS. He served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. On December 13 1940 Hay was admitted to RAF Hospital, Rauceby, for a week of observation. He was posted from 611 to RAF Digby on December 15, as non-effective sick. Hay was posted away in early 1941 and became Sector Controller at Digby, and later at Coltishall, Tangmere, Exeter and other stations. He was invalided out of the RAF in 1945, as a Wing Commander. Hay returned to South Africa, where he became a director of Miles Aircraft, of Rand Mines 1950-52 and the Central Mining and Investment Corporation from 1952. He died on April 9 2005.

British

Pilot

British

242 Squadron

He was re-attached to the RAF on November 25 1935, as a Flying Officer, with seniority to date from March 14 1928. He returned to his Royal Navy duties on October 28 1936 but was re-attached to the RAF on November 16 1936, again as a Flying Officer. This attachment ceased on July 26 1938. Hayes’ rank in the RAF was made up to Squadron Leader on September 1 1938, with seniority to date from January 1 1938. He was in the Air Force List until late 1942. Hayes was posted to the aircraft carrier HMS Hermes on July 27 1938 and then to HMS Frobisher on January 3 1939, a training cruiser used to receive new entrants to the Fleet Air Arm. On August 24 1939 Hayes went to Lee-on-Solent, to form and command 710 (FAA) Squadron, equipped with Walruses. The squadron embarked on the seaplane carrier HMS Albatross on September 1 1939 and arrived at Freetown on the 8th. From there it operated as a Fleet Requirements Unit. Hayes was made an OBE (11.7.40), as a Commander RN. He handed over command of 710 Squadron on August 8 1940 and returned to the UK soon afterwards. He was a Staff Officer in the Department of the Director of Personal Services, Admiralty from October 4 1940. It would appear that Hayes flew an authorised operational sortie with 242 Squadron on October 28 1940, patrolling the Maidstone-Sheerness area, thus qualifying him for the Battle of Britain clasp. He was certainly not on the strength of 242 Squadron. No further service details traced.

RONALD CUTHBERT HAY Pilot

SL

Hayes was commissioned in the Royal Navy in 1923. He was attached to the RAF in March 1928 and granted a temporary commission as a Flying Officer. This attachment ceased on October 30 1933.

PO (RAFVR) 27.9.38 PO 25.9.39 FO 27.3.40 FL 6.4.41 SL 10.7.44

Lieutenant (RM)

264 Squadron

Hayden joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (749480). Called up on September 1, he completed his gunnery training and was with 264 Squadron at Duxford in May 1940.

Haworth, of Teddington, Middlesex, was born on December 21 1916 and joined the RAF on a short service commission, beginning his ab initio course on March 15 1937. He was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on June 5 and on completion of training he joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge on January 8 1938.

72483

British

43 Squadron

808 Squadron

Hay was born on October 4 1916 and educated at Graveney House School, Hampstead. He joined the Royal Marines in 1935 and was commissioned on September 1. He was attached to the Fleet Air Arm on March 6 1939 and posted to 23 E&RFTS, Rochester for training. He moved on to No 1 FTS, Netheravon for No 3 Course, which ran from May 8 to November 4 1939. In May 1940 Hay was with 801 Squadron at Detling, carrying out photo-reconnaissance flights over the Channel ports and making some bomb attacks. He was with HMS Ark Royal for the Norwegian campaign and took part in the evacuation of Dunkirk. Hay joined 808 on July 1 1940, on its formation at Worthy Down. The squadron moved to Casletown on September 7, where it was put under Fighter Command control. The Advanced Flight of 808, under the command of Hay, arrived on the 7th and the remainder of the squadron arrived next day. 808 moved to Donibristle on October 2 1940 and embarked on HMS Ark Royal on the 31st. Hay served on Ark Royal in the Mediterranean in 1941 on the Malta convoys. He shared in destroying a SM 79 on May 8, shared a Cant Z 506B on July 23 and shared another on September 28. He was awarded the DSC (25.11.41). From August 1942 Hay commanded 809 Squadron, flying from HMS Victorious and

Midshipman 15.9.23 Cdr (RN) 30.6.40

Sub-Lt 26.7.27

FO 14.3.28

Lt (RN) 30.5.28

SL 1.9.38

THOMAS NORMAN HAYES 90095

FL

Pilot

British

600 Squadron

Hayes was born on June 26 1912 and educated at Dulwich College Prep School and then the senior School. He went on to study Engineering at University. He was commissioned in 600 Squadron, AAF in July 1936 and was called to full-time service on August 24 1939. On May 10 1940 Hayes flew one of six Blenheims, which attacked Waalhaven airfield at Rotterdam in daylight. In company with the CO, he shared in the destruction of a Ju 52 on

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25 1941, when he was posted away to 51 OTU at Debden for Controller duties. In mid-1942 Haysom was posted to the Middle East and he joined 260 Squadron on July 19, possibly as a supernumerary to gain experience on Kittyhawks. Three days later he was promoted to Acting Wing Commander, to become Wing Leader 239 Wing in the Western Desert. At the end of his tour Haysom was awarded the DSO (16.2.43), being then credited with at least six enemy aircraft destroyed. In Italy, after his experience of supporting the Army in the Western Desert, Haysom evolved the ‘Cab Rank’ system, which was used with such success in the 1944 invasion of Europe. A squadron of fighters was airborne, generally in line astern and was called up by a Mobile Observation Post with the forward troops, to attack specific targets. Haysom was released in 1946, as a Group Captain. He died in 1979.

the ground by machine-gun fire. Climbing away, the Blenheims were attacked by twelve Bf 110s, which Hayes, instructed by his gunner, Sergeant G H Holmes, evaded. Afterwards he saw a Ju 52 and in spite of being harassed by enemy aircraft and with his own aircraft damaged, he attacked the Ju 52, which was seen to go down with an engine on fire. Hayes evaded his attackers and headed for home but he encountered three He 115s, upon which he expended his remaining ammunition, breaking up their formation. He then got safely back to base, the only one of the six Blenheims to do so. Hayes was awarded the DFC (24.5.40). He served with 600 Squadron in the Battle of Britain and was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on December 16 1940. From October 1942 until June 1943 he commanded 256 Squadron. Hayes was later Station Commander at West Malling and commanded 149 Wing in Europe in 1944/45. He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Wing Commander. He rejoined the AAF and commanded 600 Squadron from July 1946 to July 1948. Hayes is remembered on a plaque at Dulwich College, unveiled on March 14 2002. He died in 2010.

APO 18.5.37 PO 18.3.38 FO 11.10.39 FL 11.10.40 SL 1.12.41 WC 1.1.44

JAMES CHILTON FRANCIS HAYTER 36207

Pilot

British

236 Squadron

Haylock was born in Bury St Edmunds on July 20 1921. He was educated at the East Anglian School there and Culford School. He joined the RAFVR on June 19 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748527). Called up on September 1, he completed his flying training and joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on September 10 1940, from No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth. Haylock flew his first operational sortie on September 19. The squadron’s duties included escorting FAA torpedo aircraft attacking enemy shipping in the Channel, making reconnaissances of German submarine bases and the Channel ports, searching for the FW Kondors that were harassing convoys and 236 acted as convoy-escorts out into the Atlantic. In early 1941 Haylock converted to Beaufighters at RAF Chivenor and then joined 272 Squadron. In May the squadron flew to the Middle East via Gibraltar and Malta. Initially based at Abu Sueir, 272 later moved to Mersa Matruh. Its main duty was to strafe enemy airfields but it also covered Tobruk convoys and made occasional operational visits to Malta. On September 29 1941, flying from Malta, Haylock damaged two E-boats and two Cant Z 501 flying boats. In late 1941 he returned to the UK and was posted as a test pilot to Boscombe Down. Commissioned in November 1941, Haylock, amongst other duties, acted as Special Duty Flight Commander and worked closely with CDES, Porton. He remained at Boscombe Down until his release from the RAF in December 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. Haylock died on March 17 2006. PO 22.11.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 22.11.43

GEOFFREY DAVID LEYBOURNE HAYSOM 39736

FL

Pilot

South African

New Zealander

615 and 605 Squadrons

In November 1938 Hayter joined the RNZAF on a short service commission. He was awarded his wings on April 19 1939. On May 8 Hayter was flying as observer in a Vildebeeste, which, flying too low, hit a beach at North Kaikoura, wiping off the undercarriage and damaging the propeller. The pilot made a crash-landing at Wigram, without injury either to himself or Hayter. A month later Hayter was again flying as observer in a Vildebeeste over Lake Ellesmere. On a swanstrafing run, the aircraft struck the water and went in. Hayter and the other two aboard nearly drowned but escaped with minor injuries. Hayter sailed for the UK on July 14 1939 in the SS Tamaroa from Auckland. After arrival, he relinquished his RNZAF commission and he was granted an RAF short service commission. He was posted to 98 Squadron at Hucknall which was equipped with Fairey Battles. On November 12, flying low, he hit an air raid shelter and wrote off the aircraft but escaped with minor injuries. Soon afterwards Hayter was posted to 103 Squadron at Plivot in France. On May 12 1940 he was flying one of three Battles attacking roads and bridges near Sedan. Although attacked by Bf 110s, they bombed a pontoon bridge from a height of 20 feet and succeeded in holding up German tanks for some hours. On June 12 Hayter’s gunner shot down a Hs 126. On June 16 Hayter was shot down by a Bf 109 as he was about to land. He was unhurt. Later that day the squadron was withdrawn to Honington, Suffolk. Hayter volunteered for Fighter Command and joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick on September 4 1940 but moved to 605 Squadron at Croydon on the 18th. On October 15 he damaged a Bf 109 and on the 26th, after damaging a Bf 109, he was himself shot down by another. Hayter baled out at 25,000 feet and landed in the grounds of Great Swifts, home of Major Victor Cazalet, where a cocktail party was in progress and to which he was invited. His Hurricane, V 6943, crashed at Staplehurst. On December 1 Hayter destroyed a Bf 109. He was made a Flight Commander on February 20 1941 and was posted away on May 1 to 52 OTU, Debden, as an instructor. After crashing twice with the same pupil, on June 17 and 19, Hayter returned to operations in early July 1941, when he joined 611 Squadron at Hornchurch. On July 10 he destroyed a Bf 109 but crash-landed near Southend on the return from the sweep, after his aircraft was badly damaged by flak. He destroyed Bf 109s on July 14 and August 29 and damaged another on September 17. He was awarded the DFC (17.10.41). On March 1 1942 Hayter was given command of 274 Squadron at LG 92 in the Western Desert. On July 2 he was attacked and his Hurricane badly damaged by a Mc 202. The pursuing Italian aircraft overshot Hayter, who fired a burst, sending it down. Both pilots made crash-landings and later shared a bottle of whisky in the lines of nearby Ausralian troops. Hayter probably destroyed a Mc 202 on July 10 and damaged a Bf 109 on the 18th. At the end of September 1942 he was posted to Turkey to instruct Turkish pilots on Hurricanes. He went to Iran and took command of 74 Squadron at Mehrabad on April 1 1943. In May the squadron moved to Egpyt, where it began convoy patrols and taking part in Wing sweeps over Crete. In late September Hayter took nine squadron Spitfires to Antimachi airfield on Kos Island, in the Dodecanese. On the 29th Ju 88s put the airfield out of action and on October 3 the Germans invaded Kos and over-ran the airfield. Hayter and four others took to the hills. After evading enemy patrols for several days they met some men of the Special Boat Service and were taken off by boat on October 8 and put ashore on the Turkish coast. They reached Cyprus in a fishing boat on the 14th and Hayter flew back to Edku ten days later. The squadron came together again on Christmas Day 1943 at Edku and began convoy patrols in January 1944. Hayter received a Mention in Despatches (14.1.44). 74 Squadron sailed from Port Said on April 7 for the UK and went to North Weald. Hayter received a second Mention in Despatches (8.6.44), took the squadron to France on August 19 and led 74 until December 30, when he was posted to Milfield, for a course at the Fighter Leaders’ School. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (26.1.45).

ROBERT ARTHUR HAYLOCK Sgt

Pilot

Born in Timaru on October 18 1917, Hayter was at Nelson College from 1928 to 1934. He worked on farms and in 1936 took private flying lessons at the Marlborough Aero Club.

PO (AAF) 5.7.36 FO (AAF) 23.3.38 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41 SL (AAF) 1.8.46

120505

FO

79 Squadron

Haysom, of Durban, was born in 1917. He was educated at Natal University College and Edinburgh University, where he got a BSc. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 18 1937. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on May 18, for a short induction course He was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on June 5 and after completing his training, he joined the staff of the School of Naval Co-operation at Ford on January 8 1938. He joined 79 Squadron at Biggin Hill on November 1 1938. Haysom was detached from 79 to the School of Air Navigation, St Athan on May 6 1940 for No 6 Short Navigation Instructors’ Course. He rejoined 79 on May 31. Near Abbeville on June 8 1940, Haysom shot down a Bf 109 over Le Treport. He was appointed `B’ Flight Commander on June 17, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. He took temporary command of 79 from July 7 to 11, after the CO was killed. On August 15 Haysom claimed a Bf 110 shot down, on the 28th he made a forcedlanding at Appledore Station, near Tenterden, when his glycol system was damaged in combat over Hythe,. On August 30 he probably destroyed a Bf 109, on the 31st shot down another and on September 1 damaged a Do 17. Haysom shot down a Ju 88 on November 20 1940, which had been photographing damage, caused in the German raid on Coventry. On April 1 1941 he destroyed a He 111 and on the 4th he shared in damaging another. He was awarded the DFC (29.4.41) and commanded 79 Squadron from June to September

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He was detached from 219 to the School of Air Navigation, St Athan on May 6 1940, for No 6 Short Navigation Instructors’ Course, which ran from May 6 to June 28. Head rejoined 219 on July 1 1940. He made a crash-landing in a Blenheim at Catterick on July 30, when his undercarriage would not come down. Head, Sergeant E R Lacey and Aircraftsman L Smith were all uninjured. On October 12 Head was flying Blenheim L 1113, on a routine night patrol. Unexpected engine vibration was experienced and Head throttled back. He and his gunner, Pilot Officer R V Baron, baled out. The aircraft crashed at Court Lodge Farm, Ewhurst. Baron was killed when his parachute failed to open. Head went to No 1 Blind Approach School at Watchfield, for No 5 Course, which began on November 25. He rejoined 219 on December 7 Head was killed on February 8 1941, as a Flying Officer with 219. He was on a training flight, in Beaufighter R 2074, with Sergeant R F Willis and Sergeant T le Dong. They crashed at Gumber Farm, Slindon in Sussex. All three were killed. Head was 22. Head was cremated at St John’s Crematorium, Woking, Surrey.

In mid-August 1945 Hayter sailed for New Zealand. He went on to the Reserve on December 28. He died on October 3 2006. APO 29.11.38 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.44

DOUGLAS HAYWOOD 46222

Sgt

Pilot

British

151 and 504 Squadrons

Haywood joined the RAF as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot (580296) on August 24 1936. He went to 11 E&RFTS, Perth for his ab initio course, passed it and was formally enlisted in the RAF. He then moved on to 9 FTS, Thornaby on October 31. With his flying training completed, he was posted to the newlyformed 88 Squadron at Boscombe Down on July 1 1937. The squadron flew its Battles to France on September 1 1939 and it was heavily involved in the fighting in May 1940, suffering heavy losses. During the night of the 27th/28th Haywood took off from Les Grandes Chappelles but his aircraft hit a tree and crashed, injuring him and his two crew members. On June 13 Haywood was attacked by Bf 109s, whilst he was bombing German tanks near Paris. His observer shot two down but they then had to bale out for the Battle was on fire. Haywood was wounded in the leg and his observer had an injured knee. The French took them to Sens Hospital and the next day they were evacuated in a hospital train going south. With confusion everywhere, progress was slow and after five days they arrived at Bordeaux. They went to the British Consul, who directed them to the port, where a ship was waiting to take off British evacuees. They landed at Falmouth on June 21. Haywood rejoined the squadron on August 8. He volunteered for Fighter Command on September 3 and was flown to Digby the same afternoon, to join 151 Squadron. He had one flight in a Hurricane and was at readiness the next morning at 6.00 am. Haywood was posted to 504 Squadron at Filton on September 21. Apart from a month spent in No 2 Ferry Pool at the ATA from February 6 1941, he was with 504 until July 9 1941, when he was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. Commissioned in July, he went to CFS, Upavon for a short instructors’ course in August, then instructed at 56 OTU until September 14 1942, when he joined 41 Squadron at Llanbedr. On April 27 1943 Haywood and another pilot were on a reconnaissance over Dieppe. They were surprised by seven FW 190s. Wounded in the left foot and with his Spitfire damaged, Haywood managed to get back across the Channel and crash-landed behind Dungeness. He was admitted to hospital in Canterbury and later moved to the RAF Hospital, Halton. Haywood rejoined the squadron in August. On a sweep over northern France on the 27th he had engine failure. He turned out over the Channel and baled out. He spent seventeen hours in his dinghy in a gale before being picked up by a French fishing boat. He was taken off by the Germans and made a PoW. Freed in May 1945, Haywood went to 17 FTS, Coleby Grange on December 4 for a refresher course and was then posted to the School of Air Support on April 25 1946. Haywood was later grounded for high tone deafness and retired on June 1 1955, as a Squadron Leader. He died in October 1998.

APO 24.6.39 PO 16.12.39

PHILIP WILLIAM DUNSTAN HEAL 90220

Air Gunner

British

British

604 Squadron

On April 11 1940 Heal was detached from 604 to RAF Farnborough for No 8 Oxygen Course. He was posted away to 5 OTU on August 15 1940, for instructor duties. He crashed at Aston Down on September 4, in Hurricane L 1658, unhurt. Heal was awarded the AFC (8.6.44) as an Acting Wing Commander. He stayed on in the RAF and retired on February 24 1962 as a Group Captain. PO (AAF) 24.3.3 FO (AAF) 24.9.38 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41 WC 1.10.46 GC 1.1.53

TERENCE WILLIAM RICHARD HEALY 100609

Sgt

Pilot

British

611 and 41 Squadrons

Healy, of Edgware, Middlesex, joined the RAFVR in July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741809). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his elementary training at 18 EFTS, Fair Oaks, then moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand. He was on No 49 Course, from June 16 to September 7 1940. On August 14, Healy and pupil Sergeant S A Goodwin were flying Masters, when they collided. Healy managed to land and Goodwin baled out safely. Healy arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 7 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 611 Squadron at Digby on September 29 1940. He moved to 41 Squadron at Hornchurch on October 12 and on the 25th he damaged a Bf 109. He was with the squadron until May 1941, when he went to 141 Squadron at Ayr. Commissioned in late June 1941, Healy was posted to 410 (RCAF) Squadron on July 18. He was killed on March 2 1944, as a Flight Lieutenant with 266 Squadron. Flying Typhoon 1B MN 259 he struck a tree, during a rodeo (fighter sweep) and crashed near Rambouillet. Healy was 23. He is buried in Bayeux War Cemetery, France.

FREDERICK ARTHUR PERCY HEAD Sgt

Pilot

Born on January 15 1912, Heal joined 604 Squadron, AAF in early 1937. He was called to full-time service on September 24 1939 and served with the squadron for a period of the Battle of Britain.

PO 19.7.41 FO 19.7.42 FK 19.7.43 SL 1.8.47

902546

FL

236 Squadron

Head joined the RAFVR in September 1939 as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. With his training completed, he joined 236 Squadron on March 27 1940 as an Aircraftsman. He was promoted to Sergeant in mid-May.

PO 28.6.41 FO 28.6.42 FL 28.6.43

BARRIE HEATH 90818

On July 11 he was in Blenheim L 6816, which was damaged by return fire from a He 111 engaged over Start Point but it landed safely at St Eval. On August 1 1940 Head was in Blenheim R 2774, which failed to return from an airfieldstrafing operation. It may have been shot down by the ground defences at Querqueville aerodrome or could have been the victim of Oberleutnant Düllberg of III/JG 27. Head was 25. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 15.

PO

Pilot

British

Pilot

British

611 Squadron The son of the Senior Director of Rootes Motors, Heath was born on September 11 1916. He was educated at Wrekin College and Pembroke College, Cambridge. He read Mechanical Sciences.

He learned to fly with the University Air Squadron and was commissioned in Class ‘AA’ of the RAFO in May 1937. Heath relinquished this on his being commissioned in the RAFVR in May 1938. Heath transferred over to 611 Squadron, AAF in June 1939 and was called to full-time service on August 29. Over Dunkirk on June 2 1940 Heath claimed a Ju 87 destroyed. On September 26 Heath made a short flight from Sealand to Ternhill and afterwards suffered a brief illness. He had recovered by October 5.

GEOFFREY MONS HEAD 42224

FL

219 Squadron

Head joined the RAF on a short service commission and he began his elementary flying on May 1 1939, as a pupil pilot, at 15 E&RFTS at Redhill. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on June 24 1939 for a short induction course. He moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 12 Course, which ran from July 10 to December 9 1939. Head actually joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on December 7.

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DENIS ARNOLD HELCKE

On September 28 611’s ‘B’ Flight Commander, Flight Lieutenant K M Stoddart, was made non-effective sick. On October 7 Heath went to Ternhill, where ‘B’ Flight was based and temporarily took command. On October 11 Heath probably destroyed a Do 17. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander in November and on December 21 and 29 he damaged Do 17s. On February 5 1941 he destroyed a Bf 109. In March 1941 Heath was posted from 611 to take command of 64 Squadron at Hornchurch, a post he filled until September 1941. On April 9 he damaged a Bf 109. He was awarded the DFC (29.4.41). In October 1942 Heath was at HQ Fighter Command, as Wing Commander Tactics and in December he went to the Middle East. In 1944 Heath was Wing Leader 244 Wing and he later commanded 324 Wing in Italy. Late in 1944 he joined the staff at Advanced HQ Desert Air Force. Heath was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Wing Commander. He became a prominent industrialist and was knighted in 1978. He died on February 22 1988. PO (RAFO) 4.5.37 SL 1.12.41

PO (RAFVR) 30.5.38

PO (AAF) 12.6.39

FO 29.8.39

745320

Sgt

Pilot

British

504 Squadron

Helcke was born in Herne Bay, Kent. His parents took him to South Africa as a child and he was educated at King Edward VII School, Johannesburg. He returned to England in 1935 and entered the Chelsea College of Aeronautical Engineering. Helcke graduated with a diploma and passed Air Ministry examinations. He obtained his ‘A’ licence and had done a considerable amount of flying before joining the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called to full time service on September 1 1939, Helcke completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 45 Course, which ran from early December 1939 to June 10 1940. He joined 504 Squadron at Wick on June 18, direct from 5 FTS. Flying from Hendon on September 7, he claimed a He 111 destroyed near Ramsgate. On September 17 1940 Helcke was killed, when he baled out after losing control, following dummy attacks during a practice flight over Faversham. He may have struck the aircraft and he fell dead near Selling. His Hurricane, V 7529, crashed at Shepherds Hill, Selling. Helcke was 24. He is buried in Herne Bay Cemetery.

FL 3.9.40

GEORGE STEPHEN HEBRON

RICHARD OWEN HELLYER

78252

90054

PO

Observer

British

235 Squadron

FL

Pilot

British

616 Squadron

Joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (744905). Called to full-time service at the outbreak of war, Hebron completed his training at 5 B&GS, Jurby, was commissioned in March 1940 and joined 235 Squadron at North Coates on April 1.

Hellyer was educated at Aysgarth School, Yorkshire. He joined 503 Squadron, AAF in November 1936 and was awarded his flying badge on July 3 1938.

He served with 235 throughout the Battle of Britain and in March 1941 he was posted to OTU, as an instructor. Hebron joined 233 Squadron at St Eval in November 1942, went to Special Operations Executive in November 1943 and to RAF Staff College in September 1944. In January 1945 Hebron was posted to Air Ministry, on intelligence duties. He was released from the RAF in June 1946 as a Wing Commander. He died in 1994.

In late 1938 it was decided to disband 503 and form 616 as a new bomber squadron at Doncaster. Squadron Leader the Earl of Lincoln began forming 616 on November 1 1938 and Hellyer transferred, as a foundermember. On November 15 the squadron became part of Fighter Command. Called to full-time service at the outbreak of war, Hellyer was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on May 15 1940. He was shot down and wounded on May 28 and landed on Dunkirk beach. On August 15 he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88. He flew with the squadron until September 8 1940, when he was posted to 56 OTU, Sutton Bridge, for instructional duties. In April 1941 he was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander. Hellyer joined the MSFU at Speke on June 25 1941, staying until December 28, when he was posted to 6 FIS for an instructor’s course, after which he went to 28 EFTS at Wolverhampton on May 2 1942, to instruct. On April 25 1944 Hellyer moved to 5 (P) AFU at Hutton Cranswick. He was released from the RAF on October 24 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. Hellyer later settled in South Africa and died on October 28 1995. He is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Tangmere.

PO 24.3.40 FO 24.3.41 FL 24.3.42

ALAN LINDSAY HEDGES 76578

PO

Pilot

British

245 and 257 Squadrons

Hedges joined the RAFVR about July 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740584). Called up on September1 1939, he completed training at 9 FTS, Hullavington, on No 12 Course, which ran from October 7 to December 24 1939, for advanced training only. He joined 3 B&GS on January 5 1940, for meteorological duties. Hedges went to 245 Squadron at Drem on May 21 1940. He was posted to 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on September 10. He claimed a share in the destruction of a Do 17 and also damaged a He 111 on the 15th. Hedges was posted away to 55 OTU, Aston Down on December 24 1940. No further service details traced. He was released from the RAF in 1945.

PO (AAF) 10.11.36 FO (AAF) 15.5.38 FO 24.8.39 FL15.5.40

JOHN ALLMAN HEMINGWAY 40702

Wop/AG

Belgian

Irish

85 Squadron

On the 11th Hemingway shared in the destruction of a Do 17. His Hurricane, L 1979, was hit by flak over Maastricht and he made a forced-landing. He rejoined 85 Squadron at Lille-Seclin on the 15th, delivered by the Army. He flew back to England in an Ensign on the 17th, for a rest. Hemingway was posted to 253 Squadron at Kirton-inLindsey in early June 1940 but rejoined 85, then at Debden, on the 15th. On August 18 Hemingway baled out after his Hurricane, V 7249, was damaged by return fire from a Ju 88, engaged over the Thames Estuary. He fell into the sea and was rescued by a lightship 12 miles E of Clacton. On the 26th he was shot down by a Bf 109 over Eastchurch and baled out, unhurt. His Hurricane, P 3966, crashed on Pitsea Marshes. Hemingway damaged a Bf 109 on August 31. He and Flight Lieutenant J E Marshall were led on a patrol by Flight Lieutenant G Allard on September 22, over the western area of the Church Fenton sector. In poor weather conditions over Lancashire, they ran low on fuel and had to make forced-landings, Hemingway and Marshall near Burnley and Allard near Clitheroe. All three Hurricanes were damaged but repairable. In February 1941, 85 Squadron was re-equipped with Havocs. During the nights of May

LEOPOLD HEIMES Sgt

Pilot

Born in Dublin on July 17 1919, Hemingway joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 7 1938, as a pupil pilot. He was with 85 Squadron in France in early 1940 and on May 10 he claimed a He 111 destroyed.

PO 24.12.39 FO 24.12.40 FL 24.12.41

1299983

FO

235 Squadron

Heimes was a Wop/AG in the Aviation Militaire Belge before the war. He went to England after the fall of France. He joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on August 26 1940. He flew four operational sorties during the Battle of Britain period, the first one on August 28. Heimes was posted with his flight to Aldergrove on November 19 1940, where it combined with a flight from 236 Squadron, to reform 272 Squadron. Heimes flew his first operational sortie with 272 on November 24. He trained as a pilot at 5 FTS, Sealand between July 9 and October 1 1941. He later served with 350 Squadron, the first all-Belgian fighter squadron, formed at RAF Valley on November 12 1941. Heimes was in the RAF after the war and was gazetted as a Master Pilot on April 1 1948. No other service details traced. He died in 2009.

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Henn claimed a He 111 destroyed on August 30. He was shot down and wounded on September 2, after which he lost his operational flying category. He did not fly again with 501 until December 17 1940. Henn was later posted to Alberta, Canada, as a flying instructor. Commissioned in September 1942, he returned to England in 1943 and went to RAF Transport Command, still as a flying instructor. Awarded the AFC (1.1.45), Henn was released from the RAF in 1947 as a Flight Lieutenant. He joined BEA as a Captain, retired in 1968 and then joined the Civil Aviation Authority as Flight Operations Inspector. Henn died on December 19 1978.

3/4 and 5/6 Hemingway damaged He 111s. He was awarded the DFC (1.7.41). He was posted to 1452 Flight at West Malling on July 7 1941, to fly Turbinlite Havocs. In 1945 Hemingway was again operating in day fighters and he commanded 43 Squadron in Italy from early April until December 1945. On April 23 1945 his Spitfire was struck by ground fire and he baled out but was unhurt. Hemingway retired from the RAF on September 12 1969 as a Group Captain. APO 5.7.38 PO 7.3.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.1.44 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.7.54

JAMES ALAN MacDONALD HENDERSON 74719

FO

Pilot

British

257 Squadron

PO 16.9.42 FO 16.3.43 FL 16.9.44

Born on August 8 1911, Henderson was educated at Angusfield House Preparatory School, Aberdeen, Charterhouse and Jesus College, Cambridge.

ZDZISLAW KAROL HENNEBERG P 1393

He served an apprenticeship with the family engineering business, which specialised in the manufacture of cranes. Until 1935 he was manager of the London office. He resigned and up to the war he was a Senior Account Executive of Dorland Advertising. Henderson learned to fly in 1929 at Brooklands School of Flying and in the late 1930s he had an air charter business, Brooklands Air Taxis Ltd. Just before the outbreak of war he sold the company. He joined the RAF in September 1939 on a direct-entry commission and went to 3 EFTS, Hamble, on an instructors’ refresher course. The course was discontinued on November 3 and he went to 3 ITW, Hastings, moving on to RAF College FTS, Cranwell on January 1 1940, on No 1 War Course for Officers. After completing the course, Henderson went to 2 School of Army Co-operation, Andover in early June but was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 22nd, converted to Hurricanes and then joined 257 Squadron at Northolt on July 7 1940. Henderson destroyed two Bf 110s in combat over Clacton on August 31. His Hurricane, V 6601, was hit in the petrol tank in the engagement. He baled out, injured and burned, was rescued from the sea and admitted to Brightlingsea Naval Hospital. He was discharged from hospital on September 10. After convalescence at Torquay, Henderson rejoined 257, then at Martlesham Heath, in November. After a medical board decision in December 1940, that he was no longer allowed to fly operationally, Henderson did a short spell at 5 FTS, Ternhill and went to Canada in HMT Orontes in January 1941. He instructed briefly at 33 SFTS, Carberry, before moving to 31 SFTS, Kingston, Ontario, where he remained until July 1942. Henderson then went into Ferry Command at North Bay, Ontario. Until mid-January 1944 he was on the North and South Atlantic ferry runs. He returned to the UK in February 1944 and spent the next two years at various home ferry units. Henderson was released from the RAF in early March 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. Henderson died in 1989.

Radar Operator

British

219 Squadron

Hendry joined the RAFVR in June 1940, as an Aircrafthand (1002671). He volunteered for flying duties and went to Yatesbury for a short radar course, after which he was posted to 219 Squadron at Catterick on September 2 1940, as a radar operator.

BERNARD HENSON 742563

British

Pilot

British

32 and 257 Squadrons

He joined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on June 18, direct from 5 FTS. Henson flew his first operational sortie on July 3 and claimed a Ju 87 destroyed and a Bf 109 damaged on the 19th. He probably destroyed a Do 17 on August 15 and destroyed another on the 18th. On this day he was hit by return fire during a combat over Biggn Hill and made a forced-landing at Otford, in Hurricane V 6536, with a slight wound on the face. He was discharged from hospital on the 24th and rejoined the squadron. On August 28 Henson made a forced-landing near Linton-on-Ouse, in Hurricane N 2409, during a transit flight from Biggin Hill to Acklington. Henson was posted to 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on September 29 1940. He was reported ‘Missing’ on November 17 after being shot down by Adolf Galland, in an action 10 miles E of Harwich, in Hurricane N 2342. Henson’s body was recovered and he is buried in Wisbech Borough Cemetery, Cambridgeshire.

WILLIAM BRYAN HENN Pilot

Sgt

Henson joined the RAFVR about November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 45 Course, which ran from December 11 1939 to June 10 1940.

PO 25.7.42 FO 25.1.43 FL 25.7.44

Sgt

303 Squadron

FO 1.3.41

He was promoted to Warrant Officer on May 1 1942 and commissioned in July 1942. Awarded the DFC (3.3.44) and released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. Hendry’s service record must be unique. He served with 219 Squadron from September 1940 until his release in 1946, in Britain, North Africa and on the Continent.

137301

Polish

In 1937 Henneberg was posted to the Central Flying School at Deblin, as an instructor. After the German invasion of Poland in September 1939, he operated with the Deblin Group, an ad hoc unit of flying instructors. He shared in destroying an enemy aircraft. After Poland fell, Henneberg escaped to France, via Romania. He joined l’Armée de l’Air and in 1940 he commanded a flight of nine Bloch MB 152s defending Chateauroux airfield and the Bloch factory. He was awarded the C de G (Fr) and shared in the probable destruction of a He 111 in May 1940. After the collapse of France Henneberg led his flight of four aircraft across the Channel to Tangmere on June 18 1940, the only Polish unit to escape with its aircaft to Britain. Henneberg went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. He joined 303 Squadron at Northolt at its formation on August 2 1940 and was Joint ‘A’ Flight Commander until August 21, when Flight Lieutenant W Urbanowicz arrived. On the 31st he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed, on September 2 he damaged a Bf 109, on the 7th he destroyed a Bf 109, probably another and probably destroyed a Do 17, on the 11th he destroyed a He 111 and a Bf 109, on the 15th destroyed a Do 17 and a Bf 109, on the 27th he destroyed another Bf 109 and on October 5 he destroyed a Bf 110. Henneberg was re-appointed Joint ‘A’ Flight Commander on September 7, when Urbanowicz took command of the squadron. He held temporary joint command of 303 from October 21 to November 8 1940, after Urbanowicz was posted away on October 20. He was awarded the DFC (16.10.40), the VM (5th Class) (23.10.40) and the KW and Bar (1.2.41). On January 1 1941 Henneberg took sole command of ‘A’ Flight and on February 20 he took complete command of 303 Squadron. Returning from an operation against French airfields on April 12 1941 Henneberg’s Spitfire, P 8029, was damaged by enemy fire and he went down into the sea 10 to 13 miles off Dungeness. Although he was seen swimming, he was not found and is presumed to have drowned. Henneberg is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt.

DAVID OSWALD HENDRY AC

Pilot

Born in Warsaw on May 5 1911, Henneberg entered the Cadet School at Deblin in 1932 and was commissioned as an Observer in 1934. He began pilot-training in 1935 and after qualifying, he joined 111 Eskadra.

PO 18.9.39 FO 18.9.40 FL 18.9.41

129121

FO

501 Squadron

Born on October 22 1917, Henn was a civilian flying club instructor before the war. He joined the RAFVR in October 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (906097). After completing his training, he joined No 1 AACU. Henn went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 3 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 501 Squadron at Gravesend on August 19 and made his first flight next day and flew his first sortie on the 21st.

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LAWRENCE FREDERICK HENSTOCK 37751

FL

Pilot

British

to Aldergrove, where, with a flight of 235 Squadron, they reformed 272 Squadron. He flew his first operational sortie with the squadron on the 21st. On the 24th he went on a convoy-escort sortie. At 16.20 hrs his Blenheim was seen to make a high speed stall in a turn, at less than 100 feet above the sea and went straight in. A boat from the destroyer HMS Vesper searched for survivors but only a rubber dinghy and a petrol tank were found. It is believed that as the squadron returned, it was ordered to simulate a mock dogfight at low-level, to practise actions necessary in a combat situation. Herrick is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 6. He was the elder brother of M J Herrick.

64 Squadron Henstock was born in 1913 at Ashbourne, Derbyshire and educated at Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School there. He went to work at Universal Aircraft Services, Witney, and took flying lessons. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on February 10 1936 at the Reid and Sigrist Civil Training College at Duxford.

He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on April 6 for a short induction course and on the 18th he was posted to 7 FTS, Peterborough for intermediate and advanced flying training. With the course completed, Henstock joined No 1 Squadron at Tangmere in October 1936. On March 22 1937 he joined 72 Squadron, then being formed at Church Fenton. Henstock shared in the destruction of two He 111s SE of Montrose on December 7 1939. He joined 64 Squadron, also at Church Fenton, on February 18 1940, as ‘B’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. Over Dunkirk on May 31 he damaged a Bf 110. On July 25 he probably destroyed a Bf 109, shared in the destruction of another and damaged a Ju 87, on August 12 he shared a Do 17 and on the 18th he damaged a Do 17. Henstock flew his last operational sortie with 64 Squadron on September 9 1940 and went to CGS, Warmwell, as an instructor. It has been reported that on September 27, during an attack on Warmwell, he scrambled in a Defiant, with Corporal Stott as Air Gunner, but failed to engage the enemy. In February 1942 he was posted to 10 Air Gunnery School, moving in June to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as an instructor. In August 1943 Henstock joined the staff of HQ 9 Group at Preston and was later at 5 (P) AFU. He was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader. Henstock died at Ashbourne in March 1981.

APO 29.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40

MICHAEL JAMES HERRICK 33566

Pilot

British

266, 92 and 66 Squadrons

Heron was born on November 22 1915 in Belfast and was educated at Lalgar School and the Royal Belfast Academical Institute. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on December 28 1938. With his flying training completed, he joined 266 Squadron on November 6 1939. On July 27 1940 Heron was attached to the School of Air Navigation at RAF St Athan, for the No 1 Fighter Pilots’ Short Navigation Course, which ran from July 29 to August 23. Back again with 266, Heron damaged three Do 17s on September 11. On this day he was posted to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill but he then joined 66 Squadron at Gravesend from 92 Squadron on the 15th. Heron probably destroyed a He 111 and damaged another on the 18th, probably destroyed a Do 17 and damaged another on the 27th and claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on the 30th. He flew his last sortie with 66 on October 10 1940. Heron was posted to RAF Biggin Hill on the 14th, as non-effective sick. He flew no more sorties with 66 Squadron and presumably he went to CFS, for an instructors’ course, because he joined 6 FTS, Little Rissington from CFS on December 15 1940, as an instructor. Heron spent the remainder of his RAF service as a flying instructor. He was awarded the AFC (7.9.45) and released from the RAF in September 1946 as a Squadron Leader. He died in 2003. APO 4.3.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41

BRIAN HENRY HERRICK 42003

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

New Zealander

25 Squadron

In late 1938 Herrick applied for a cadetship at RAF College, Cranwell, successfully. He sailed for the UK on the RMS Rangitiki on March 9 1939. He began the course at Cranwell on April 27. At the outbreak of war, cadets who had not completed their courses were enlisted in the regular RAF on September 7 1939, as Airmen u/t Pilots and each given an Airman number. Herrick (581712) graduated on March 7 1940 and he was granted a Permanent Commission. On March 18 he joined 151 Squadron at North Weald and on April 13 he went to 25 Squadron, also at North Weald. During the night of September 4/5 1940 Herrick, flying with Sergeant J S Pugh as his gunner, destroyed a He 111 and later a Do 17, which broke up after a burst at less than thirty yards range. In the early hours of the 14th Herrick, flying with Pilot Officer A W Brown as his gunner, destroyed a He 111. He was awarded the DFC (24.9.40). He may have destroyed another enemy aircraft in December 1940. He damaged a Ju 88 at night on May 9 1941 and destroyed another on June 22, near Market Deeping, Lincolnshire. He was in Beaufighter R 2277, with Pilot Officer L Yeomans as his radar operator. Herrick was posted from 25 in October 1941 and arrived back in New Zealand on December 23, on attachment to the RNZAF. On January 10 1942 he went to 2 FTS, Woodbourne, as an instructor, moved to 3 FTS, Ohakea in March and on June 25 was posted to 15 Squadron at Whenuapai, as a Flight Commander. It had no aircraft, its promised Kittyhawks having been diverted to the Middle East. In October the squadron was posted to Tonga and took over P 40s of the 68th Pursuit Squadron, USAF at Fuamotu. The squadron moved to Santo in February 1943 and then to Fiji on March 20. Five days later the CO was killed and Herrick took command. He destroyed a Rufe on May 6. On May 26, 15 Squadron flew to Guadalcanal and began operations. Herrick destroyed a Zero fighter on June 7, shared a Val dive bomber and damaged another on October 1 and shared a Zeke fighter on October 27. His attachment finished, Herrick sailed from Auckland on January 14 1944, in charge of 300 aircrew trainees, bound for Canada. He left them at Edmonton and went to the UK. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (10.2.44). Herrick joined 305 Squadron at Lasham, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. A Polish fighterbomber unit equipped with Mosquitos, the squadron was then carrying out mostly night operations but in May 1944 it began ‘ Day Rangers’, which were operations flown as freelance intrusions over enemy territory, with the primary aim of wearing out the enemy fighter force. On June 16 Herrick took off on his first such operation. He flew in company with Wing Commander J R D Braham. They split at the Jutland coast and Herrick went towards Aalborg airfield. He was intercepted and shot down by Leutnant Spreckels of JG 1. Herrick and his navigator, Flying Officer Turski, baled out but were too low. Herrick fell into the sea. A German search for his body was unsuccessful but it was washed up on July 4 and buried two days later in the Military Cemetery at Fredrikshavn. Nine days later Spreckels shot down Braham, who was captured. Herrick was posthumously awarded the US Air Medal in July 1944 and it was presented to his parents in Wellington on June 14 1945. He was the brother of B H Herrick. A third brother, Flying Officer D T Herrick, was serving as a pilot with 53 Squadron, when he was shot down over France on June 26 1941. He died of his injuries on the 30th, aged 29. He is buried in Lorient Cemetery. He was awarded the George Medal on January 24 1941, for rescuing a trapped pilot from a burning aircraft.

HUGH MICHAEL TURRETIN HERON PO

Pilot

Born in Hastings, New Zealand on May 5 1921, Herrick was educated at Wanganui Collegiate School and whilst there he obtained his ‘A’ licence at the Hawke’s Bay and East Coast Aero Club at Hastings.

APO 6.4.36 PO 10.2.37 FO 10.9.38 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

41700

PO

236 Squadron

Born in Hastings, New Zealand on February 1 1915, Herrick was at Wanganui Collegiate School from 1929 to 1933. He later went to England, to study accountancy in London. When his interest waned, he joined the RAF on a short service commission. Herrick began his ab initio course at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble on March 6 1939, as a pupil pilot. On April 29 he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, for a short induction course. He completed his flying training at 12 FTS, Grantham and joined the newly-formed 236 Squadron at Stradishall on November 6. He served with it throughout the Battle of Britain. On November 19 1940 Herrrick was posted with his flight

PO 7.3.40 FO 4.3.41 FL 7.3.42

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VICTOR WILLIAM HESLOP 51508

Sgt

Pilot

British

on February 27. On June 1 he was dismissed from the Air Force and he escaped to the American Zone in Germany later in the month before the communists could arrest him. He became a member of the Council of Free Czechoslovakia which had the aim of liberating the country from the communists. Hess later emigrated to the USA and, for many years, he worked for Pan American Airways as a technical advisor, at JFK and La Guardia airports in New York. He died at his home in Brookville, Florida on August 10 1981. Hess is buried in Brookwood Cemetery, Surrey.

56 Squadron

Heslop was born on May 9 1913 and went to Bolton Municipal Secondary School, for evening continuation classes. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice (564200), in January 1930 and passed out in December 1932, as a Metal Rigger. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. Heslop carried out his flying training and passed out as a Sergeant Pilot. He was with 142 Squadron in France by May 10 1940, flying Battles. In August Heslop volunteered for Fighter Command and he joined 56 Squadron at Boscombe Down on September 2 1940. He was posted from 56 to No 1 FTS, Netheravon on January 20 1941, as an instructor. Promoted to Warrant Officer on October 1 1941, Heslop was commissioned in February 1943. He left the RAF in 1948 but rejoined in June 1949 and retired on May 9 1963 as a Flight Lieutenant.

PO 12.7.40 SL 12.7.40 WC 1.3.41 GC 7.3.45

ERIK LAWSON HETHERINGTON 102091

ALEXANDER HESS SL Pilot

Czechoslovakian

Pilot

British

601 Squadron

Hetherington, who came from Northumberland, joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (758132). Called up on September 1, he completed his elementary training at 7 EFTS, Desford and his intermediate and advanced training at 10 FTS, Ternhill, where he was on No 20 Course, which ran from May 13 to August 17 1940.

PO 10.2.43 FO 10.8.43 FL 10.2.45 FL 10.8.46 FL 11.7.48

81888

Sgt

He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 17th, converted to Hurricanes and was posted to 601 Squadron on September 11. Commissioned in July 1941, Hetherington joined 611 Squadron at Hornchurch in the autumn. In April 1942 he was posted overseas. He embarked on the carrier USS Wasp and flew off in a Spitfire on May 10 for Malta, where he joined 249 Squadron. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on May 10. He claimed a Ju 88 damaged on July 7, a Mc 202 destroyed on the 12th, a Ju 88 damaged on the 23rd, a Bf 109 damaged on August 27, shared a Mc 202 on September 2, damaged a Bf 109 on the 16th, damaged a Ju 88 on October 13, probably destroyed a Ju 88 on the 14th, damaged another on the 16th and destroyed a Bf 109 on the 17th. Hetherington made crash landings on July 7 and 14 after his Spitfires were damaged in combat. He was made a Flight Commander in July and awarded the DFC (3.11.42), credited with two enemy aircraft destroyed. Tour-expired, Hetherington was on his way back to the UK in a Liberator on October 31 1942. Attempting to land at Gibraltar, the aircraft went into the sea and broke in half. Trapped in the rear half, he was drowned. Hetherington was 24 years old and is remembered on the Gibraltar Memorial, in the North Front Cemetery there.

310 Squadron

Hess was born on May 4 1898 in Karlova Hut, Beroun. On May 11 1916 he enrolled, as an officer cadet, for service in the Austro-Hungarian Army. In the First World War he saw action on the Russian Front in 1916 and the Italian Front in 1917, serving with the 88th Infantry Regiment (Russia) and with the 102nd Regiment (Italy). In Italy he was wounded twice; in the arm (August) and in the head (November). From February 1 1918 he was a platoon commander and then commander of an Anti-Gas Assault Battalion After the Great War ended Hess left the Army to begin engineering studies but he returned to the Army of the new Czechoslovakia on June 30 1919. On May 1 1920 he transferred to the newly-formed Air Force. He graduated from the Military Aviation Academy at Chleb as an aerial observer and was assigned to 2 Air Regiment at Olomouc. In June 1924 he went for pilot training and then on a fighter pilot course. He returned to 2 Air Regiment and was posted to 33 Fighter Squadron. In 1936 he commanded the Czech aeronautical team at the Olympic Games in Berlin and, in 1937, at the International Air Display in Zurich. When the Germans took over Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939, Hess, was commanding Pardubice airbase with 46, 47 and 48 Fighter Squadrons under his command. With thousands of other servicemen, Hess was demobilised on March 17. In January 1940 Hess escaped to France using a forged passport and travelling via Hungary, Slovakia, Yugoslavia and Italy. On arrival in France, due to his high rank and command experience, Hess was assigned to the Czechoslovak Military Administration in Paris. On April 15 he joined l’Armée de l’Air and retrained at the Centre d’Instruction at Chartres, joining the Escadrille Legere de Defence, Chartres on May 16, as Commandant. When France capitulated Hess, together with other Czech airmen, was released from service with l’Armee de l’Air. Hess arranged that the Chartres airmen travel to Bordeaux . On June 19 they boarded the Ary Schaeffer and sailed for Falmouth where they arrived on June 23. He went to the RAF Czechoslovak Depot, Cosford, where he was commissioned in the RAFVR on July 12, as a Pilot Officer but was promoted to Squadron Leader shortly afterwards. Despite his age (42) he convinced the RAF that he was capable of being an operational fighter pilot and he was posted to the newly-formed 310 Squadron at Duxford. On August 31 he destroyed a Bf 109 and a Do 17. His last sortie with 310 Squadron was on September 15. After damaging a Bf 109, he was shot down in combat with enemy fighters over the Thames Estuary. Despite being on fire he remained with the aircraft until it was clear of residential areas and he baled out at 400ft but landed safely, escaping with bruises. His Hurricane, R 4085, crashed near Billericay church and burned out. Hess remained with 310 as CO but did not fly again operationally. He was awarded the DFC (26.10.40). On February 28 1941 he was posted to the Czechoslovak Inspectorate, as Liaison Officer with Fighter Command at Bentley Priory. He was also promoted to Wing Commander with the rank of Acting Group Captain in the RAF and Lieutenant-Colonel in the Czech Army. He held this post until December 31 after which he was assigned to the Czech Diplomatic Service and was posted to Ottawa as the Czech Air Attaché. He remained in this post until September 21 1945. He then transferred to Washington DC where he remained until February 15 1946. On a tour organised by the Inspectorate General of the Czech Air Force in the latter half of 1943, he accompanied the Czech ace, Karel Kuttelwascher. The object was to recruit pilots for the Czech squadrons in England. After the war Hess returned to Czechoslovakia and took up an administrative post in the Czech Ministry of Defence. In 1946 he was appointed as Commander of 2 Air Corps at Cesky Budejovice. Following the Communist coup on February 15 1948 he was placed on ‘waiting leave’

PO 17.7.41 FO 17.7.42

GORDON ARTHUR HEWETT 102992

Sgt

Pilot

British

607 Squadron

Hewett joined the RAFVR about July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741847). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 3 FTS, South Cerney, on No 32 Course, which ran from January 31 to June 15 1940. He joined 607 Squadron at Usworth on June 15, direct from 3 FTS. On August 15 Hewett damaged a He 111 and on September 15 he damaged a Do 17 over Tenterden. Commissioned in August 1941, Hewett relinquished his commission due to ill health with effect from May 3 1944. PO 9.8.41 FO 9.8.42 FL 9.8.43

DUNCAN ALEXANDER HEWITT 76579

PO

Pilot

Canadian

501 Squadron

Hewitt was born in Toronto on August 30 1919. He was resident in the UK when he joined the RAFVR about January 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741237). Called up on September 1 1939, he was commissioned in December, completed his training and joined 501 Squadron in France on May 21 1940. He destroyed a He 111 on the 27th and probably destroyed a Bf 110 on June 6. The squadron was withdrawn from France and re-assembled at Croydon on May 21. On the 24th Hewitt was attached to HQ 11 Group on temporary duty. He rejoined 501 on the 27th. On July 11 1940 Hewitt is said to have shot down a Hurricane with German markings. He was lost the next day, in Hurricane P 3084. Flight Lieutenant E Holden led Blue Section, including Hewitt, after a Do 17 that was making a reconnaissance flight over Portland Bill. They found the enemy aircraft but kept losing it in bad visibility. At 10 ft above the water Holden fired all his ammunition and silenced the rear gunner but Hewitt flew into the sea, apparently having been caught in the Dornier’s slipstream. His body was seen floating in the sea, but was not recovered. Hewitt is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 8. PO 24.12.39

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COLIN ROY HEWLETT 69438

Sgt

Pilot

British

GEORGE FRANCIS WHEATON HEYCOCK 65 Squadron

26138

SL

Pilot

British

Hewlett, of Frenchay, joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748732).

Heycock was born on September 17 1909. He went to Haileybury and entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1928, as a Flight Cadet.

Called up on September 1, he completed his training and then joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on July 13 1940, direct from FTS. He was attached to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 15th, where he converted to Spitfires. Hewlett rejoined 65 on August 9 1940. Hewlett made his first flight with the squadron on that day and flew his first sortie on August 21. Commissioned in June 1941, Hewlett was still with 65 in 1942. When Scharnhorst and Gneisenau made their Channel Dash on February 12, the squadron fought with the German fighter cover and Hewlett shot down a Bf 109. He flew on the Dieppe operation on August 19 and was awarded the DFC (3.11.42). On December 12 1942 Hewlett was circling to land at Drem with his speed still over 300 mph, when his Spitfire exploded. His parachute opened but he died of his injuries. Hewlett was 22 years old. He is buried in the churchyard of St John the Baptist, Frenchay, Winterbourne, Gloucestershire.

On graduation in December 1929, he was commissioned and then he joined 111 Squadron at Hornchurch. Heycock went back to Cranwell on August 5 1931, as an instructor. In January 1933 he was appointed PA to the AOC Inland Area, Air Vice-Marshal Longmore, at Bentley Priory. On October 22 1934 he went to CFS, Wittering, as an instructor. He joined 823 (Fleet Spotter-Reconnaissance) Squadron on August 30 1935, on HMS Furious and on land at Hal Far, Malta. On January 14 1938 Heycock went to the Experimental Section at the RAE, Farnborough, as a test pilot. He was there until June 1 1940, when he was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down for a refresher course. He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on June 15, as a Flight Commander. On August 9 Heycock took command of 23 Squadron at Wittering, leading it until November. He relinquished his command and was posted to HQ 11 Group on December 4 1940. After a spell away, he commanded 23 Squadron again from January to March 1941. He took command of 141 Squadron at Ayr on July 6 1941. From August he converted the squadron from Defiants to Beaufighters. On May 1 1942 Heycock probably destroyed a Do 217 at night. With his tour completed, he was posted away on September 9 1942 and awarded the DFC (29.9.42). Promoted to Group Captain, he was appointed Head of Night Operations at HQ 9 Group. From June 1943 to June 1944 he commanded 35 OTU in Canada. Heycock returned to the UK and on August 13 1944 became Station Commander at West Raynham. Mentioned in Despatches (14.6.45), he was posted to a Staff course at RAF Staff College at Bracknell in August 1945. Heycock held a series of appointments at home and abroad, his final one being as Air Attaché in Paris from March 1959 until March 1964. For his services there he was made a Commander of the Légion d’Honneur by the French Government. Created a CB (8.6.63), Heycock retired from the RAF on May 1 1964 as an Air Commodore. He died on June 27 1983.

PO 26.6.41 FO 26.6.42

JOHN MINCHIN HEWSON 39083

FL

Pilot

British

23 Squadron

616 Squadro Hewson was born in Kensington, London on April 2 1914. His father, an Englishman, had migrated to Australia, married an Australian-born woman there and had two more children.

Hewson was at Harrow School from 1928 to 1932 and he learned to fly at Brooklands in the mid 1930s. He joined the RAF on a short service commission in July 1936. He did his ab initio course at 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury, moving on to No 1 RAF Depot at Uxbridge on August 31, for a short induction course. He arrived at 11 FTS, Wittering on September 15, completed the course and joined 142 Squadron at Andover on May 22 1937. The squadron changed its Hinds for Battles in March 1938. It went to France, with the AASF at the outbreak of war. Hewson led a section of three Battles to attack German troops near Rouen on June 13 1940. On the way home they were jumped by German fighters. Hewson’s aircraft was set on fire. He ordered his wireless operator to bale out and because the gunner was wounded and unable to leave the aircraft, Hewson stayed on and made a successful forced-landing. He reached his aerodrome on the 15th and returned to England with the remnants of 142 Squadron. He was awarded the DFC (6.8.40). Hewson was back in action during July and August, bombing the Channel ports. In mid-August he volunteered for Fighter Command, in answer to an Air Ministry call for pilots to replace casualties in the fighter squadrons. He joined 616 Squadron at Kenley on August 21. On his first operational sortie in a Spitfire, on the 26th, five 616 aircraft were shot down in a surprise attack by Bf 109s. With his considerable experience of night flying, Hewson was picked for night patrols but without success, the Spitfire being completely unsuitable for the job. On September 2 1940 Hewson went to 7 FTS, Peterborough, as an instructor. He was posted overseas on November 2 and arrived at 31 SFTS, Kingston, Ontario on the 10th, again as an instructor. Posted back to the UK on December 20 1942, Hewson joined the Airfield Board at Air Ministry in February 1943. He was posted away on December 3 and arrived at Algiers on December 25 1943, moving on to 3 Airfield Construction Group at Salerno on January 26 1944. Hewson left Leghorn for the UK on September 3 1944 and went to RAF Stannington, for an Admin course on the 26th, after which he was made Senior Admin Officer at Predannack on November 17. He was there until November 4 1945, when he took command of 567 Squadron. Released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader, Hewson went with his family to Australia, to take over one of the properties in Western Queensland, that his family had owned since the 1880s. On his arrival, Hewson took out Australian citizenship. He died in Australia in 1996.

PO 14.12.29 FO 14.6.31 FL 14.6.35 SL 1.10.38 WC 1.12.40 GC 1.1.44 GC 1.7.49 AC 1.7.55

NORMAN BAGSHAW HEYWOOD 41923

PO

Pilot

British

32, 607 and 257 Squadrons

Heywood joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on February 6 1939. He completed training and joined 98 Squadron from No 1 Group Pool, Benson on January 19 1940. On the 25th Heywood was detached from 98 to the Austin Motor Works at Castle Bromwich, to ferry Fairey Battles to squadrons in the UK. This attachment ceased on February 2 and he rejoined 98 Squadron. Heywood moved to 226 Squadron in France on March 19 1940, flying Battles. In August he volunteered for Fighter Command and was posted to 32 Squadron at Acklington on September 9. He moved to 607 Squadron at Tangmere on the 22nd and then to 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath in early October. On the 22nd Heywood was hit by anti-aircraft fire, whilst in combat with Bf 109s over Folkestone. His Hurricane, R 4195, crashed S of Lydd church and he was killed. Heywood was 22. He is buried in Stretford Cemetery, Manchester. APO 15.4.39

PO 6.11.39

JOHN HARVEY HEYWORTH 32079

SL

Pilot

British

222 and 79 Squadrons

Heyworth was born on March 20 1910 in Belper, Derbyshire and educated at Rugby School. He was an outstanding sportsman, particularly at rugby and cricket, and gained a place at Edinburgh University to study medicine, his father’s profession. However, Heyworth joined the RAF on a short service commission on September 11 1931 and on the 26th he was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand. After his flying training was completed in late August 1932, he was posted to 54 Squadron at Hornchurch. On November 22 1934 Heyworth went to 504 Squadron, AAF at Hucknall, as Flying Instructor. He went on to Class ‘A’ of the RAFO in September 1936 and worked for RollsRoyce as a test pilot.. Recalled at the outbreak of war, he went back to instructional duties. Heyworth was at 22 (Army Co-operation) Group on April 17 1940. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down for a refresher course on May 21 1940 and converted

APO 31.8.36 PO 10.7.37 FO 10.2.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.3.42 .

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Higginson later applied for pilot training and on August 6 1935 began his elementary flying at 4 E&RFTS, Brough and moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand on October 2. With training completed, he joined 19 Squadron at Duxford on July 1 1936 but when ‘C’ Flight became 66 Squadron on July 20, Higginson went with it. From April 13 1937 he was with the AACU flights at Biggin Hill and later Bircham Newton. Higginson joined 56 Squadron at North Weald on October 20 1937 and was still with it on September 1 1939, with the rank of Flight Sergeant. He went with ‘B’ Flight to Vitry-enArtois, France on May 16 1940, claimed a Do 17 and a He 111 destroyed on the 17th and a Bf 110 on the 18th. On that evening the flight was evacuated from Vitry and went to Norrent Fontes. Higginson and Sergeant C Whitehead were sent back to destroy the remaining aircraft and stores. When they finally left, the Germans were only3 or 4 miles away. Over Dunkirk on May 29 Higginson claimed a Bf 109 and on July 15 a probable Do 17. He was awarded the DFM (30.7.40). On August 12 he damaged a Do 17, on the 16th destroyed a Do 17, on the 18th shot down another, on the 25th probably destroyed a Bf 110, on the 26th destroyed a Bf 110, on the 31st a Bf 109, on September 14 a Do 17, on the 27th he damaged a Bf 110 and on the 30th he shared a Bf 110 and damaged another. Higginson was commissioned on September 24. On October 1 he was appointed temporary ‘B’ Flight Commander, when Flight Lieutenant R S J Edwards was shot down on September 30 1940. He held the post until October 17. On June 17 1941 Higginson was shot down over France. He evaded capture. After many adventures and narrow escapes, including being imprisoned by the Vichy French for six months, he finally returned to England in late September 1942. Higginson rejoined 56 Squadron, then at Matlask, on October 6. He was awarded the DFC (9.2.43). From January 5 1943 he was on special duties in London at Napier Aero Engines and on April 1 1944 he was posted to 83 Group TAF, firstly at Redhill, then Thorney Island and from August 6 1944 on the Continent. In 1945 Higginson was with 11 Group, on organisation duties. He went to RAF Staff College and Army Staff College and retired from the RAF on April 5 1956, as a Wing Commander. He joined Bristol Aircraft, as a military adviser, later becoming Sales and Service Director. He was made an OBE in 1963. Higginson’s portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in December 1940 and also by Eric Kennington. He died at St Clears, Carmarthenshire on February 12 2003, five days before his 90th birthday.

to Hurricanes. On July 9 he joined 222 Squadron at Hornchurch, as a supernumerary. He took command of 79 Squadron at Acklington on July 12. On August 15 he shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 and a Do 17 and on the 31st he probably destroyed a Ju 88. The squadron went south to Biggin Hill on August 27 1940. On September 6 Heyworth damaged a Ju 88, on the 7th he probably destroyed another and on the 27th he shared in the destruction of a He 111 and also in the probable destruction of another. On April 2 1941, flying from Pembrey, he probably destroyed a He 111 off Linney Head and on the 9th he shot a He 111 down into the sea off St David’s Head, Pembrokeshire. Heyworth was posted away from 79 Squadron and attached to Rolls-Royce in June 1941, for test pilot duties. He flew many different types of aircraft before testing jets. Heyworth was seconded from the RAF to Rolls-Royce in 1942. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.46). After release from the RAF in 1945, as a Wing Commander, Heyworth re-joined RollsRoyce, as a test pilot. He became Chief Test Pilot in 1951. On January 22 1954 he crashed in a Lancaster on Holmwell golf course, due to fuel starvation. Heyworth’s injuries meant the end of his test-flying career. When he resumed flying in June 1954, it was only in light communications aircraft. H N D Bailey, a Battle of Britain pilot from 54 Squadron, succeeded him as Chief Test Pilot and Heyworth joined the Aero Division sales staff. Heyworth’s brother, James, also employed at Rolls-Royce, took over the role of Chief Test Pilot in January 1955, when Mr Bailey was appointed Manager of the Technical Administration at Rolls-Royce. In late July Heyworth suffered a severe stroke. On October 6 his son, Paul, was killed in a motor cycle accident, aged 19. Heyworth had a further haemorrhage on September 21 1959 and died. PO 11.9.31 FO 11.3.33 FL 1.4.36 FL (RAFO) 11.9.36 SL 1.3.40 WC 1.3.42

DAVID THORNHILL HICK 748104

Sgt

Pilot

British

32 Squadron

Hick joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his elementary training at 2 EFTS, Filton and moved on to 3 FTS, South Cerney for No 35 Course, which ran from May 26 to August 23 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 31. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 32 Squadron at Acklington on September 21. He went to 145 Squadron at Tangmere on November 5 1940. No further service details have been traced but Hick is believed to have been released from the RAF during the war. He died on July 26 1973.

PO 24.9.40 FO 8.4.41 FL 8.4.42 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.7.53

THOMAS PETER KINGSLAND HIGGS 36165

An entry in the logbook of Flight Sergeant John Lingard of No 25 Squadron indicates that Aircraftman HIGGINBOTTOM made a qualifying flight on September 14 1940.

Sgt

Pilot

British 32 and 253 Squadrons Born at Hodthorpe, Whitwell, Derbyshire in 1914, Higgins was educated at Brunts Grammar School, Mansfield. He trained as a teacher and taught at his old Church of England junior school at Whitwell. He was a noted sportsman.

Pilot

British

111 Squadron

PO 29.10.38 FO 9.8.39

CECIL HENRY HIGHT 41924

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

234 Squadron

Born in Stratford, New Zealand on September 6 1917, Hight was educated at the Technical High School there. After leaving, he worked as a car salesman.

FREDERICK WILLIAM HIGGINSON PO

British

It is not known where Higgs went on completion of his training but on March 20 1940 he was attached to RAF St Eval. The attachment ceased on May 22 1940 and he joined 229 Squadron at Digby. On the 25th he moved to 111 Squadron, also at Digby. Higgs was attached to RAF Uxbridge on June 6 for a short R/T course. On June 11 he destroyed a Bf 109 and also probably destroyed a Do 17 near Le Havre. On July 10 1940 Higgs was attacked by Oberleutnant Oesau of III/JG 51 over the Channel off Folkestone. Taking evasive action, he collided with a Do 17 and lost a wing at 6,000 feet. He baled out but was killed. The Dornier, of 3/KG 2, crashed near Dungeness Buoy. Higgs was 23. His body was washed ashore at Noordwijk on August 15. He is buried in Noordwijk General Cemetery, The Netherlands. Higgs Close in Oldham was named in his honour.

Higgins joined the RAFVR in August 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot and he carried out his elementary flying training at Tollerton. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 45 Course, which ran from early December 1939 to June 10 1940. Higgins joined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on June 18, direct from 5 FTS. He flew his first operational sortie on July 3 and shared a Do 17, on the 20th he probably destroyed a Bf 110 and on August 12 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 24th he shot down another. On September 9 Higgins was posted to 253 Squadron at Kenley. On the 11th he destroyed a Bf 109, shared a Do 17 and damaged a Bf 110. On the 14th he was killed in combat with Bf 109s and his Hurricane, P 5184, crashed in flames at Swanton Bridge, Bredgar. Higgins is buried in St Lawrence’s churchyard, Whitwell.

44630

Pilot

Higgs was born in Oldham and given the first names Thomas Kingsland. He was educated at the Royal Masonic School and then at Merton College, Oxford, where he read Modern History. He was a member of the University Air Squadron and joined the RAF with a direct-entry commission, as a University Entrant, in October 1938. Higgs disliked being called “Tom” or “Tommy” and took “Peter” as an additional first name when he went to Oxford, using all three names on joining the RAF.

WILLIAM BURLEY HIGGINS 741927

FO

56 Squadron Hight obtained his ‘A’ Licence at the Western Federated Aero Club in August 1937. Early in 1938 he worked his passage to England, to join the RAF. Unable to reach necessary educational requirements, he took a cramming course in mathematics, applied again and was accepted for a short service commission. On February 6 1939 Hight began his ab initio course at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty.

Born in Swansea on February 17 1913, Higginson was the son of a policeman. He was educated at Gowerton County Intermediate School. He joined the RAF as an Aircraft Apprentice (563147) in January 1929 and passed out in December 1931, as a Metal Rigger. He was posted to 7 Squadron as a Fitter/Air Gunner.

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Hill was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on May 30 and with his training completed, he joined 248 Squadron at Hendon on November 6 1939. He was detached to 25 Squadron at Northolt on January 3 1940, for a short R/T procedure course, following which he rejoined 248 Squadron. He moved to 254 Squadron at Dyce on January 6 1941. Next day the squadron moved to Sumburgh, from where Hill had come to join it. He was killed on April 15 1941, as a Flight Lieutenant with 254 Squadron. Hill is buried in Rosseb churchyard, Haugesund, Norway.

He went to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on April 29, completed the course and joined 234 Squadron on November 6 1939, then reforming at Leconfield with Blenheims. In March 1940 the squadron began to re-equip with Spitfires. On August 15 1940 the Luftwaffe made an early evening raid on Bournemouth. The enemy aircraft were met by 234 Squadron, then based at Middle Wallop. In the action, Hight was shot down, in Spitfire R 6988. Witnesses saw Hight’s aircraft go into a dive from about 5,000 feet. He baled out but his parachute did not open and he fell into the garden of ‘Hambledon’, a house owned by Mr and Mrs Hoare in Leven Avenue. Canon Hedley Burrows, Vicar of St Peter’s, arrived just before Hight’s body was found and he said a prayer for the dead pilot, where he lay in the garden. The Spitfire crashed nearby, at the corner of Leven Avenue and Walsford Road. Hight is believed to have been badly wounded and may have been unable to pull his ripcord. He was buried with full military honours in Boscombe Cemetery on August 19. A memorial service was held at St Peter’s on April 7 1943 and a plaque to Hight’s memory was unveiled by the High Commissioner for New Zealand. This memorial took the form of RAF wings, carved from Kauri wood by the pupils of Hight’s old school in New Zealand. Mr and Mrs Hoare planted a Garden of Remembrance on the spot where Hight’s body was found. On November 14 1940 Mr Hoare was killed when the house was bombed and Mrs Hoare was buried in the debris. The Garden of Remembrance was later tended by local people. Hight was the only Allied airman to die in action over Bournemouth during the war. At some time later a road in Hinson, North Bournemouth was named in his honour, Pilot Hight Road.

APO 13.5.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40

CHARLES RICHARD HILL 112518

Observer

British

British

141 Squadron

He served with the squadron in the Battle of Britain. On the night of November 10 1940, flying with Sergeant R C Hamer, Hill probably shot down a Ju 88. On December 15 Hill was posted away to 255 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey. He flew his first night patrol in a Defiant with it on January 9 1941. Hill was teamed up with Flight Lieutenant J G Sanders, ‘A’ Flight Commander, and they flew together until Sanders was posted away on June 23 1941. They claimed He 111s probably destroyed during the nights of March 11/12 and 13/14th and a Ju 88 damaged on April 7/8. In July Hill teamed up with Sergeant P S Kendall. The squadron began to re-equip with Beaufighters about this time. Hill did a Radio Observer’s course in August/September, afterwards rejoining the squadron. Commissioned in November 1941, Hill was with Kendall when they damaged a He 111 near Birmingham during the night of July 27/28 1942. Both men were still with 255 when it left for North Africa on November 14 1942. Kendall and Hill attacked and damaged a four engined enemy aircraft during the night of December 29/30 1942, near Bone. On January 7/8 1943 they destroyed a Cant Z 1007 and on May 24/25 a Ju 88. Hill was awarded the DFC (30.4.43). Hill stayed on in the RAF after the war. He retired on April 13 1959 as a Squadron Leader. He died on October 20 1985.

ARTHUR HERBERT HILES PO

Air Gunner

Hill was born in Derby on March 1 1914. He joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (745903). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 141 Squadron in November 1939.

APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39

85008

Sgt

236 Squadron

Hiles, of Wellington Somerset, joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (755051). Called up on September 1, he was on No 2 Air Observer Course at 11 AONS, March 18 to June 29 1940. He went firstly to a B&GS and on August 25 Hiles was posted to No 1 (C) OTU at Silloth for further training and was commissioned. He joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on September 26 1940 and was flying operationally on the 30th. Hiles was killed on March 15 1942, as a Flying Officer with 233 Squadron, operating in Hudsons from St Eval. He was 25 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 67. PO 25.8.40 FO 25.8.41

PO 24.11.41

FO 1.10.42 FL 24.11.43

SL 1.8.47

CLIVE GEOFFREY HILKEN 745482

Sgt

Pilot

British

74 Squadron

GEOFFREY HILL 61046

Hilken joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot and was called up on September 1. He completed his flying training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 46 Course, which ran from February 1 to June 26 1940.

Sgt

Pilot

British

65 Squadron

Hill joined the RAFVR in late 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745896) and was called to full-time service on September 1 1939. He was posted to 3 ITW, Hastings in October, went to 11 EFTS for his elementary flying training and then to 6 FTS, Little Rissington, to complete it.

He possibly arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 1. After converting to Spitfires, Hilken was posted on August 21 to Wittering, to join 74 Squadron, only to find that it had moved to Kirton-in-Lindsey, where he joined it. In mid-October 74 went to Biggin Hill and on the 20th Hilken was shot down by Bf 109s over South London. He baled out, wounded, and was admitted to Orpington Hospital. His Spitfire, P7426, crashed at Cowden. He did not fly again until November 27. Hilken baled out for a second time, possibly on April 21 1941, when he was shot down over Manston. On June 27 1941 he was shot down on a sweep over St Omer, in Spitfire W 3252. For a third time Hilken baled out, wounded, and was captured. He was a PoW (No 39537) until May 1945 and was released from the RAF later in the year as a Warrant Officer. He became a school teacher. In March 1949 Hilken was commissioned in the RAFVR. He died on June 30 2005.

On July 13 1940 Hill joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch, direct from 6 FTS. He was attached to 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 15 and after converting to Spitfires, he rejoined 65 on August 9. He flew his first operational sortie on the 19th and served with the squadron through the remainder of the Battle of Britain. Commissioned in November 1940, Hill was shot down over France on February 4 1941 and made PoW. He was held at various times in Stalags Luft I, 2 and 3 and finished up in Colditz (PoW No 405). Freed in May 1945, he was released from the RAF later in the year as a Flight Lieutenant. Hill was made an MBE for distinguished service whilst a PoW.

PO (RAFVR) 3.3.49

PO 27.11.40

FO 27.11.41 FL 27.11.42

ARCHIBALD EDMUND HILL

GEORGE EDWARD HILL

42125

42126

PO

Pilot

British

248 Squadron

Hill, of Wiltshire, joined the RAF on a short service commission in March 1939. He began his ab initio course at 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury on the 13th. He was sent to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on May 13 for a short induction course and he was commissioned.

PO

Pilot

British

245 Squadron

Hill, from Hampshire, joined the RAF on March 13 1939 on a short service commission and began his ab initio course, as a pupil pilot. He completed his training and joined 245 Squadron on November 6 1939, when it was

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rendering him unconscious, while the soldiers stood by and watched. He came to with his head in the lap of a French Air Force officer, a man he had known in Rouen. The shamefaced peasants tried to make amends, the Army then re-appeared and again tried to arrest him, unsuccessfully. Hill was evacuated from Lille by ambulance train. En route, between Le Touquet and Boulogne, Ju 87s dive-bombed it and the driver and fireman fled. Hill and another officer finally mastered the engine’s controls and drove the train to Boulogne. Evacuated from Dunkirk, Hill landed at Dover and was put on to an ambulance train. When he asked the engine driver to change some French francs, so that he could telephone his wife, he was again arrested as a fifth columnist. Fortunately a Wing Commander that he knew came along and he was released. Hill was at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge in July, to await a posting. He was given command of 222 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on July 31 1940 and he joined the squadron on August 5. He damaged a Bf 109 on August 30, claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on September 1 and probably destroyed a Bf 110 on the 3rd. In January 1941 he was posted to 57 OTU, Hawarden to be CFI. Hill went to New Zealand in July 1942, for Air Staff duties, and did not return to the UK until 1945. Hill joined SHAEF and in 1948 he went to Paris, on the staff of the British Air Attaché. He was made a CBE (1.1.46). He held a series of appointments prior to his retirement from the RAF on February 1 1960 as a Group Captain. For a time he was a member of the committee of the Battle of Britain Fighter Association. Hill died in August 1998.

equipped with Battles and Blenheims. It began to re-equip with Hurricanes in March 1940. Over Dunkirk on June 1, Hill claimed a Bf 109 destroyed. He was with 245 in the Battle of Britain. He was posted to 2 CFS, Cranwell on December 6 1940, for an instructors’ course. Hill was killed on March 31 1944, as a Flight Lieutenant with 245 Squadron, aged 28. He is buried in Attleborough Cemetery, Nuneaton, Warwickshire. Hill had a brother, Pilot Officer David Hill, a pilot who died on September 28 1939, aged 20. He is buried in Lossiemouth Burial Ground. APO 13.5.39 PO 6.11.39

FO 6.11.40

FL 6.11.41

HOWARD PERRY HILL 41847

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

92 Squadron

Born in Christchurch on April 17 1920, Hill was at Marlborough College from 1932 to 1936. He applied for an RAF short service commission in 1938 and after being provisionally accepted, he sailed for the UK on December 16 in the RMS Rangitata.

APO 1.4.32 PO 1.4.33 FO 1.11.34 FL 1.11.36 SL 1.4.39 WC 1.3.41 WC 1.10.46 GC 1.1.52

On January 23 1939 Hill went to 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham to begin his ab initio course. He moved to 13 FTS, Drem for No 1 Course, which ran from April 17 to October 21 1939. For the last two weeks of the course Hill went with the Advanced Training Squadron of 13 FTS to 8 Air Observers’ School Evanton. With the course completed, Hill joined the newly- reformed 92 Squadron at Tangmere on October 22, direct from 13 FTS. It was then equipped with Blenheims but these were gradually replaced by Spitfires from early in March 1940. On March 22 1940 Hill was admitted to hospital, suffering from pneumonia. He rejoined the squadron in May. On July 26 Hill shared in the destruction of a Ju 88, on September 15 he shot down three He 111s, probably destroyed a Bf 109 and shared a Do 17 and another He 111, on the 18th destroyed a Ju 88 and on the 19th probably destroyed a Bf 109. N of Dungeness on September 20 1940, the squadron was attacked from above and behind by Bf 109s of JG 51. Hill was in the rear section and one of the first to be attacked. He was shot down in flames by Major Mölders and crashed into high tree tops at West Hougham, Kent. The Spitfire, X 4417, with Hill still in it, remained undiscovered for a month. Hill is buried in Folkestone New Cemetery and his name appears on the reredos in St George’s Chapel of Remembrance at Biggin Hill. Hill had a brother, Sergeant P J Hill, a navigator who was killed in a flying training accident at 5 LFS on January 12 1945, aged 22. He is buried in Botley Cemetery, Oxford.

MICHAEL ROWLAND HILL 72467

FO

Pilot

South

African 266 Squadron

Hill was educated at The Leys School and Trinity College, Cambridge, where he read History. He was a member of the University Air Squadron and was commissioned in the RAFVR in October 1938. Called up on September 1 1939, Hill completed his elementary flying training at 5 EFTS, Hanworth. He moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand, for No 49 Course, which ran from June 16 to September 7 1940. He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 7, converted to Spitfires and joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on the 28th. Hill was killed on March 12 1945, as a Squadron Leader with 19 Squadron. The squadron was escorting 44 Mosquitos of the Banff Strike Wing on a shipping sweep over the Skagerrak, when it was bounced by at least 12 Bf 109s. Hill’s Mustang was seen to go into the sea. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 265. PO (RAFVR) 18.10.38 PO 11.10.39

FO 9.8.40 FL 9.8.41 SL 1.7.43

SYDNEY JENKYN HILL 77795

APO 1.4.39 PO 21.10.39

PO

Pilot

British

Hill, of Ferndown, Dorset, was born in 1917 and was at Uppingham School from 1931 to 1935. He went on to Imperial College, London, where he studied Metallurgy at the School of Mines. He was a member of the University Air Squadron.

JOHN HAMAR HILL 32172

SL

Pilot

British

609 Squadron

222 Squadron Hill was born on December 28 1912 and educated at Dover College. He joined the RAF on a short service commission on April 1 1932. He did his flying training at 3 FTS, Grantham and with training completed he joined 19 Squadron at Duxford on August 21 1933. He was posted to 800 (Fleet Fighter) Squadron at Upavon on September 26 1934.

Hill joined the RAFVR on a direct-entry commission in March 1940. He went to RAF College FTS, Cranwell for No 11 Course, which ran from June 8 to September 6 1940. He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 7, converted to Spitfires and joined 609 Squadron at Middle Wallop in October. On the 21st he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88, 609’s 100th victory. Hill was killed on June 18 1941, as a Pilot Officer with 609. After being in combat with Bf 109s off Cap Gris Nez, he managed to get back to the English coast and was seen gliding down near Dover but his aircraft then crashed and burned out. He was killed. Hill is buried in Hawkinge Cemetery.

Hill joined the Air Staff at 21 Group, Sleaford on December 1 1938. He was with 85 Squadron for Ops Room duties at the outbreak of war. It is not known whether he went to France with the squadron when it left Debden on September 9. Hill joined 87 Squadron on November 17 1939, to command. On February 26 1940 Hill was posted away to take command of 81 Squadron at Amiens-Mountjoie, where it was flying Tiger Moths on communications duties. He joined the squadron on March 5, remaining with it only until May 16 1940, when he took command of 504 Squadron at Lille-Marcq. On the 19th he was shot down by a Bf 110 and baled out. Within a few hundred feet of the ground he was fired on by French peasants with shotguns. After landing, he was able to convince them that he was not German. As he was about to be driven away in a French Air Force car, a British Army patrol arrived and he was arrested as a fifth columnist. Reaching for his identity card, Hill was fired on by one of the British soldiers. When he ducked below the windscreen, all the others fired. Hill rolled out of the car into a ditch and when firing had ceased, he convinced the officer-in-charge of his identity. Having seen all this, the French peasants were sure that Hill was a German. They beat him savagely,

APO 7.3.40 PO 7.9.40

RICHARD HOPE HILLARY 74677

FO

Pilot

British

603 Squadron

Hillary was born on April 20 1919 in Sydney, Australia, the son of a Government official. He went to London at the age of three, when his father was appointed to a post at Australia House there. He was at Shrewsbury School from 1931 to 1937 and then went to Trinity College,

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FRANK WILLIAM HILLOCK

Oxford, where he read Modern Greats and History. Whilst there, he learned to fly with the University Air Squadron. He was sometime President of the Rugby Club and Secretary of the Boat Club. Hillary transferred to the RAFVR in June 1939 (754280), after leaving Oxford. Called to full-time service on October 3 1939, Hillary was commissioned and posted to 3 ITW, Hastings. He went to 1 4 FTS, Kinloss for No 4 Course, November 20 1939 to May 11 1940. With the course completed, he went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum. Hillary was on No 7 Course, running from May 20 to June 22 1940. On the 23rd he moved to 5 OTU, Aston Down, converted to Spitfires and joined 603 Squadron at Dyce on July 6 1940. The squadron moved south to Hornchurch on August 27. Hillary claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and another probably destroyed on the 29th and was himself shot down, crashlanding near Lympne, unhurt. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on the 31st, two Bf 109s destroyed, one probably destroyed and another damaged on September 2 and another destroyed on the 3rd. On this day Hillary was shot down in flames into the Channel off Margate by Hauptmann Bode of II/JG 26. He baled out, grievously burned, and was rescued by the Margate lifeboat. He spent three months in the Royal Masonic Hospital and then went to the Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, where he underwent plastic surgery by Archie McIndoe. Out of hospital in late 1941, Hillary went to the RAF Staff College at Gerrards Cross, for a course. He regained his flying category and went to 54 OTU, Charter Hall, to convert to night fighters. On January 8 1943, circling a beacon at night, his Blenheim spun into the ground and he and his navigator, Sergeant K W Fison, were killed. Hillary was cremated at Golders Green Crematorium, London and his ashes were scattered from a Boston over the English Channel by his old 603 Squadron CO, Wing Commander G L Denholm. Hillary is remembered for his classic book The Last Enemy, published in June 1942. His portrait was done by Eric Kennington. There is a memorial plaque to him at Golders Green Crematorium.

C 1018

PO

Pilot

Canadian

1 (RCAF), 151 and 1 Sqdns

Hillock joined the RCAF Auxiliary on May 18 1939. He was called to full-time service on September 2 and went to England in February 1940. He was with 110 (RCAF) Squadron in May 1940. Hillock volunteered for Fighter Command and on September 14 1940 he was posted to No 1 (RCAF) Squadron. With no Hurricane experience, he was immediately attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down. After converting to Hurricanes, he was sent to RAF Digby on October 3 and attached to 151 Squadron there on the 4th. Hillock left 151 on October 8 and joined No 1 Squadron, RAF at Wittering, to gain experience, flying a patrol on the 14th. On the 21st he was posted to No 1 (RCAF) Squadron at Prestwick. He joined 406 (RCAF) Squadron at Acklington on January 5 1941, as a Flight Commander. He took command of 410 (RCAF) Squadron at Ayr on Aiugust 18 1942. The squadron converted from Beaufighters to Mosquitos in October and Hillock flew the first sortie on December 6. In a sortie to the Ruhr on April 15 1943, he found himself in the midst of several radio masts. In climbing out, he flew through antennae at Apledoorn radio station. The Mosquito lost a foot off the starboard wingtip and on return, was found to be trailing some 300 feet of thick copper cable. In May 1943 Hillock was sent to Staff College, after which he returned to Canada on August 23. Two months later he came back to the UK, to form 143 Wing 2nd TAF at Ayr. It moved down to Hurn on April 20 1944 and across to France on June 12. A month later he was replaced by a Group Captain, when 2nd TAF was reorganised. Hillock went on a course at the Fighter Leaders’ School at Milfield and then returned to a staff job in Canada, concerned with Mosquito training. He held a series of appointments and commands in the post-war RCAF. Hillock retired on November 21 1965 as a Wing Commander.

PO 3.10.39 FO 3.10.40 FL 3.10.41

PETER HILLWOOD 120107

HARRY BRYAN LILLIE HILLCOAT 90256

FO

Pilot

British

1 Squadron

Weald, to join 56 Squadron. On May 12 1940 he went with ‘B’ Flight of 56 to France, to support the hard-pressed squadrons there. On the 14th Hillwood was attached to 3 Squadron and was still with it when the squadron withdrew to Kenley on May 20 1940. He later rejoined 56 Squadron at North Weald. Hillwood destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another on June 30, claimed a Ju 87 probably destroyed on July 13 and damaged a Bf 110 on August 13. He was himself shot down on this day, in a head-on attack by a Bf 109 off Sheerness. He baled out, unhurt, swam two miles towards Sheppey and was near collapse when he was spotted by two anti-aircraft gunners, who waded out and helped him in. On August 28 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and on October 7 he damaged a Do 17. He went to 2 CFS, Cranwell on January 12 1941. Commissioned in January 1942, Hillwood was awarded the DFC (24.11.44), as a Flight Commander with 127 Squadron, then at B 60 at Grimbergen, Belgium. At some time he was attached to Vickers Supermarine, for special test duties. He was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. In 1948 Hillwood joined Vickers as a test pilot, later moving to English Electric. He flew as second pilot to R P Beamont on the record-breaking double-crossing of the Atlantic in a Canberra on August 26 1952, which won the Royal Aero Club’s Britannia Trophy for the best performance in the air for the year. In November 1966 Hillwood was acting as a freelance demonstration pilot for BrittenNorman. On the 9th he was killed, when the prototype Islander that he was flying crashed into Ringwiel Lake in Northern Holland, whilst on a flight back to the Britten-Norman works at Bembridge in the Isle of Wight. Hillwood was 46.

PO 24.8.39 FO 11.9.39

RALPH WALTER HILLMAN Sgt

Wop/AG

British

56 Squadron

Having the right experience, Hillwood was given the chance of having six months’ full-time training with the regular RAF. He was attached to 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on February 3 1939. Hillwood was posted from 74 to RAF Upwood on June 1 1939 and he returned to civilian life in August. Called up on September 1 1939, he arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on the 2nd. He converted to Hurricanes, and went to Croydon on the 7th, moving soon afterwards to North

Hillcoat rejoined 605 Squadron at Tangmere on October 13 1939. He was posted to No 1 Squadron in France on May 16 1940. He claimed a He 111 destroyed on June 4 but made a forced-landing with a bullet in his engine. The squadron was withdrawn to Tangmere on June 18. At the end of the month Hillcoat was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander. On August 18 he shared in destroying a Do 17, on September 1 claimed a Bf 109 and on the 2nd probably destroyed another. Hillcoat failed to return from a squadron patrol on September 3 1940, in Hurricane P 3044, and was reported ‘Missing’. He was 23 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 4.

643257

Pilot British

Hillwood joined the RAFVR about July 1938, as as Airman u/t Pilot (741744), doing his pre-war flying at 22 E&RFTS, Cambridge.

Hillcoat, of Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, joined 605 Squadron, AAF in early 1938. Called to full-time service on August 24 1939, he arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on September 11. After further training and converting to Hurricanes he was posted on October 2 1939 to 263 Squadron, then being formed at Filton.

PO (AAF) 11.3.38

Sgt

235 Squadron

Hillman, from Edmonton, Middlesex, worked as a chauffeur before joining the RAF in May 1939, as an Aircrafthand. After the outbreak of war, he remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG and with his training completed he was with 22 Squadron in May 1940. The squadron had teething troubles with its new Beaufort aircraft. Some of its personnel, Hillman among them, were attached to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on August 1. He resumed flying operations with 22 Squadron on August 31 1940. On April 6 1941 Flight Sergeant Hillman was a member of the crew of a Beaufort, captained by Flying Officer K C Campbell, one of three aircraft detailed to attack the German battle cruiser Gneisenau in the harbour at Brest. The weather was bad and having failed to rendezvous with the other two Beauforts, Campbell decided to make a solo low-level attack on the ship. He flew into the harbour entrance, and favoured with the element of surprise, he released his torpedo. As Campbell made a climbing turn to escape, the harbour defences opened up and the Beaufort was hit and plunged into the water, with the loss of all four men on board, Campbell, Hillman, Sergeant P J Scott, RCAF, observer and Sergeant W C Mulliss, Air Gunner. The Germans recovered the bodies and they were buried in Kerfautras Cemetery, Brest. For his action Kenneth Campbell was awarded a posthmous VC.

PO 23.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 23.1.44

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JAROSLAV HIMR 81891

PO

Pilot

MERRICK HUBERT HINE

Czechoslovakian

79 and 56 Squadrons

745148

Sgt

Pilot

British

Himr was born at Verovany, near Olomouc, on June 17 1917. In October 1935 he joined the Military Aviation Academy at Hranice na Morave He then went to the Academy at Prostejov where he achieved his pilot’s wings, after which he joined 5 Air Regiment at Brno.

65 Squadron

Hine, of Penn, Buckinghamshire, was born in 1916. In the early 1930s he was employed by the LMS Railway. He learned to fly privately at the de Havilland School of Flying at White Waltham, in Tiger Moths. He joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1, completed his training and went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 3 1940. He crashed at Kemble in Spitfire N 3106 on the 11th but was unhurt. He joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 19. The squadron flew north to Turnhouse on the 28th. On September 23 Hine crashed on landing after a routine practice flight, in Spitfire K 9904. The aircraft was damaged but repairable. Hine was lost in an action with a Ju 88 near Selsey Bill on December 12 1940. It is not clear whether he was shot down by return fire from the Ju 88 or whether he collided with Pilot Officer W H Franklin of 65, who was also lost. Hine was 24. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 15.

Himr later took a fighter training course and then joined 49 Fighter Squadron of 3 Air Regiment on September 22 1938, at Spitska Nova Ves, flying Avia B-534 biplanes. The Squadron later transferred to Vyskov airfield. When the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939, Himr was demobilised two days later. In February 1940, after two unsuccessful attempts, he escaped to France. His route is believed to have been via Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Yugoslavia, the Middle East and then to France. He arrived at Marseilles on March 26 1940 where he was drafted to the air group based at Agde, near Bordeaux. Before he could complete his re-training to French equipment, Germany invaded France. Himr was at the Bordeaux-Merignac airbase and managed to escape by air. On June 17 he was in a group of 38 Czech airmen, led by Ferdinand Secky, who boarded a British Imperial Airways aircraft which took them to Hendon. Himr was commissioned in the RAFVR on July 12 and on that day he joined 310 Squadron, then forming at Duxford. He was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 17, to convert to Hurricanes. On the 22nd he crashed, when his Hurricane was caught by a gust of wind as he was landing. Himr was unhurt. He joined 79 Squadron, at Pembrey on September 10 and moved to 56 Squadron at Boscombe Down on October 8. Himr was posted to 601 Squadron at Manston on June 13 1941. He was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant and appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander. On June 30 the squadron moved to Matlaske, Norfolk, to re-equip with Bell Aircobra 1 aircraft. On August 16 the Squadron moved to Duxford, Himr completed his operational tour on December 15. He was posted, in February 1942, to 56 OTU, at Sutton Bridge. During this posting he was also at Tealing, near Dundee, to command one of the training units. On June 26 he returned to operational duties and took command of 313 Squadron at Exeter. On February 27 1943 Himr damaged a FW 190. He destroyed a FW 190 on August 27. On September 24 313 Squadron was on a ‘Ramrod’ operation to Brest, escorting Mitchells. Himr, flying Spitfire Vb, BP 856, was seen to shoot down a Bf 110 four miles E of Brest. He was then attacked by other Bf 110s and shot down into the sea. His body was never recovered. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 118.

LEONARD HIRD 936364

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

604 Squadron

Hird, from Yorkshire, joined the RAFVR in September 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. With training completed, he joined 604 Squadron at Middle Wallop, possibly in midAugust 1940. He made only three flights with the squadron, of which only one was an operational sortie, on October 17 1940. With the advent of the Beaufighter and the increasing use of airborne radar, Hird was one of many air gunners who were posted away from their squadrons in late 1940 to Bomber Command. Hird went to 10 Squadron in early 1941, which was flying Whitleys from Leeming, in Yorkshire. He was killed on June 28 1941, failing to return from an operation to Bremen, in Whitley P 5055, as a Flight Sergeant. He was 23. Hird is buried in Hamburg Cemetery, Ohlsdorf, Germany.

ARTHUR JAMES BEAUMONT HITHERSAY 749366

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

141 Squadron

Born in 1920, Hithersay joined the RAFVR in December 1938, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. He was called to full-time service at the outbreak of war and posted to the newlyformed 141 Squadron at Grangemouth in October 1939. He served with the squadron in the Battle of Britain.

PO 12.7.40 FO 27.12.40 FL 27.12.41

FREDERICK GEORGE HINDRUP NZ 40284

Sgt

Air Gunner

New Zealander

600 Sqdn

On the night of May 5/6 1941, flying with Flight Sergeant G Laurence, Hithersay shot down a He 111 at night S of Greenock. When the squadron converted to Beaufighters in September 1941, he transferred to 4 Group, Bomber Command and went into Flying Control. He was stationed at Linton-onOuse, responsible for airfield control for 76 and 78 Squadrons, both operating with Halifaxes. Hithersay later operated a satellite station at Brighton. He was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Warrant Officer. He died on July 25 1997.

Born in Dannevirke on May 24 1914, the son of a teamster from Gisborne who was killed in action in 1918, Hindrup was working for New Zealand Railways when he volunteered for the RNZAF at the outbreak of war. Hindrup reported to the Ground Training School at Weraroa on January 16 1940. In February he was posted to the Air Observers’ School, Ohakea, for a gunnery course. He sailed for the UK on June 7 in the RMS Rangitata. After arriving on July 20, Hindrup went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting. On July 30 he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down, completed his training, gained his Air Gunner’s badge and joined 600 Squadron on September 21. With the advent of the Beaufighter and the increasing use of airborne radar, air gunners were doing little flying by the end of 1940. With others, Hindrup asked to go to Bomber Command and in February 1941 he was posted to 11 OTU, Bassingbourn. He converted to Wellingtons and in March he joined 99 Squadron at Waterbeach. On the night of April 20/21 1941 Hindrup took off on his tenth operational flight, an operation to Cologne, in Wellington T 2997. At 01.20 hrs the aircraft collided with a barrage balloon over Harwich, burst into flames and crashed into the sea 3000 yards offshore from Felixstowe. Hindrup’s body was later recovered from the sea and he was reported as ‘Killed in Action’. Hindrup is buried in Felixstowe Cemetery, Suffolk. His father, Rifleman F J Hindrup, was killed in France on August 26 1918, serving with the 2nd Battalion of the 3rd New Zealand Rifle Brigade, aged 28. He is buried in Vaulx Cemetery, France

JAROSLAV HLAVAC 787542

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

79 and 56 Squadrons

Hlavac was born in Petrvald on September 11 1914. He was in the Czech Air Force when the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939. He was demobilised two days later. Hlavac went to Poland. He sailed from Gdynia to France. He was required to join the French Foreign Legion, with the assurance that if war was declared he would be transferred to a French military unit. When war was declared he transferred to l’Armée de l’Air. He was assigned to CIC Chartres for re-training to French equipment. He arrived there on September 11 and completed training on March 8 1940. He was posted to GC III/7 at Vitry le Francois, near the Swiss/German border, flying MS-406 aircraft. When the Germans invaded France, the rapidity of the Blitzkrieg caused GC III/7 to change location frequently as it retreated to the west. On June 17 1940 Hlavac was

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DUDLEY ORMSTON HOBBIS

transferred to GC I/6 at Ussel. Three days later and now at Clermont-Ferand, he was released from service with l’Armee de l’Air. Hlavac and other Czech airmen made their way to Port Vendres and, on June 24 boarded the General Chanza bound for Oran, Algeria. They then travelled by train to Casablanca and boarded a ship which took them to Gibraltar where they transferred to another ship which took them to England. Hlavac joined the RAFVR at the RAF Czechoslovak Depot, Cosford and from there he joined the recently-formed 310 Squadron at Duxford, possibly on August 6. He was attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 17 and, after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 79 Squadron at Pembrey on September 11. Hlavac moved to 56 Squadron at Boscombe Down on October 8. Two days later Hlavac, on his first operational patrol with the Squadron, was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 109s over Wareham. His Hurricane, P 3421, crashed at Manor Farm, Worgret. He is buried in the south part of Holy Trinity Churchyard, Warmwell, Dorset.

42709

PO

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

Pilot

British

219 Squadron

A well-known amateur tennis player before the war, Hobbis was born in Tynemouth, on April 25 1910. He was educated at Durham School and Rutherford Technical College. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 24 1939, as a pupil pilot.He went to 12 FTS, Grantham for No 5 Course, from September 25 1939 to April 10 1940. He joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on April 20, serving with it throughout the Battle of Britain. Hobbis was detached from 219 to Debden on December 8 1940, for a short AI course. During the night of April 27/28 1941 he destroyed a Ju 88, which crashed into the Solent. At night, on June 1/2, he destroyed a Ju 88 off Brighton and on June 13/14 a He 111 off Hove. Hobbis was awarded the DFC (8.7.41), as a Flying Officer with 219 Squadron. The citation credited him with three enemy aircraft destroyed at night. His radar operator was Sergeant W T Clark, who was awarded the DFM. From May to September 1942 Hobbis commanded 530 Squadron, a Turbinlite Havoc unit at Hunsdon. He was posted away to 51 OTU, Cranfield in September, to be an instructor. In April 1943 he joined 488 Squadron at Ayr as ‘A’ Flight Commander. During a patrol over Bradwell Bay on November 25 1943, Hobbis reported over his R/T that his port engine was on fire and that he had ordered his navigator, Flight Sergeant O L R Hills, to bale out. It is believed that he also baled out himself but his body was never recovered, although that of Hills was washed ashore some months later. Hobbis was 33 and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 118. He was a Squadron Leader at the time of his death.

ALOIS HLOBIL 82547

PO

312 Squadron

Hlobil was born on June 6 1906 at Olomouc. He was a career Czechoslovak Air Force officer. After the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939 he was demobilised on the 17th. He travelled to Ostrava and escaped into Poland through the Tesin area in July. He reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate in Krakow. He then sailed, from Gdynia, on the Chroby, to France. He was required to join the French Foreign Legion with the assurance that he would transfer to a French military unit if war was declared. He was waiting for transfer to the Legion Training Base when war was declared and so he transferred to l’Armée de l’Air. He went to CIC Chartres for re-training to French equipment and, on completion of this training, he was assigned to GC II/4, based at Xaffevillers, near Nancy, to fly Curtiss H-75c fighter aircraft. On June 5 1940 he shared in the destruction of a Hs 126. When the Germans invaded France the rapidity of their Blitzkrieg caused GC II/4 to change location frequently as it retreated to the west and in late June it was at Perpignan in south-west France. After the French collapse, Hlobil was released from service with l’Armee de l’Air and he was evacuated from Port Vendres, on the General Chanzy, to Oran, Algeria. With other evacuated Czech airmen he travelled by train to Casablanca and then, on June 29, boarded the Gib-el-Dersa which took them to Gibraltar. He transferred to the Cidonia which sailed for Liverpool, arriving on July 16. He went to a transit camp at Innsworth and then to the Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford where he was commissioned in the RAFVR in early August. From there he was posted to 312 Squadron at Duxford on September 5 and re-trained to fly Hurricanes on the Squadron. He was appointed Commander of ‘B’ Flight. Hlobil was posted from 312 to 4 Ferry Pilot Pool, at Kemble, on November 16 and, in January 1941 he was posted to 8 MU, at Little Rissington, where he served as a test pilot until August 1941. Hlobil was then sent to the Czechoslovak Inspectorate General in London where he remained until the end of the war, serving as the Czech Liaison Officer with RAF Training Command. At the end of the war Hlobil returned to Czechoslovakia and remained in the Czech Air Force, assigned to the HQ in Prague. In September 1946 he was appointed Commander of No 1 Department at the HQ. Following the communist take-over in February 1948, Czechoslovaks who fought for the Allies were regarded as ‘tainted’. A few days after the take-over, Hlobil was dismissed from the Czech Air Force and there are no records of what happened to him until his death in Prague on March 15 1981.

APO 18.9.39 PO 20.4.40 FO 20.4.41 FL 20.4.42

JOSEPH BEDO HOBBS 41926

PO

Pilot

British

3 and 232 Squadrons

Hobbs, of Folkestone, joined the RAF on February 6 1939 on a short service commission and began his ab initio course, as a pupil pilot. With his training completed, he joined 253 Squadron at Manston in late 1939. On May 13 1940 Hobbs was posted to France and he flew to Manston from Kenley, in company with two others, in Hurricanes en route to France. They joined 3 Squadron at Merville on May 14. On the 17th he shared a He 111, on the 19th he destroyed two and on the 20th he shared two more. As a member of ‘B’ Flight, Hobbs went with it to Sumburgh on July 17, where it became 232 Squadron on the 21st. In 1941 Hobbs was with 274 Squadron in the Western Desert. On June 15 1941 he destroyed a Hs 126 and on the 24th, on a convoy patrol, he intercepted three SM 79s and destroyed one. Hobbs was killed on December 7 1941, as a Flight Lieutenant, shot down by Unteroffizier Grimm of 1/JG 27, in an action W of El Adem. He was 26. Hobbs is in Halfaya Sollum War Cemetery and he has a memorial plaque at Tonbridge School, unveiled on November 26 2003. APO 15.4.39

PO 6.11.39

FO 6.11.40

PO 2.8.40 FL 9.40 SL 8.41 WC

SYDNEY JOHN HOBBS 742901

JAMES HAMMOND HOARE-SCOTT 87673

PO

Pilot

British

601 Squadron

Sgt

Pilot

British

235 Squadron

Hobbs joined the RAFVR about January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 6 1940. After converting to Blenheims, he was posted to 235 Squadron at Detling in late May and served with it in the Battle of Britain.

Hoare-Scott, of Surrey, was educated at Marlborough College and Clare College, Cambridge, where he read Mechanical Sciences. He was a member of the University Air Squadron from 1930 to 1933 and obtained his pilot’s licence whilst with the squadron.

On November 19 1940 Hobbs was posted to Aldergrove, with his flight, which was combined with a flight from 236 Squadron, to reform 272 Squadron, for shipping-escort duties. Hobbs flew his first operational sortie with the squadron on November 23. On December 21 1940 he baled out of a Blenheim over Ireland, unhurt. It is unclear if he was interned by the Irish authorities or whether he managed to get back to Northern Ireland. If interned at the Curragh Military Camp, he could have been one of the successful escapees from there on June 26 1941. Hobbs was killed on August 14 1941, as a Sergeant, serving with 143 Squadron, a Beaufighter coastal-reconnaissance unit, based at Dyce. He was 25 and is buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery, Surrey.

He was destined for a career in ship-building, for which he had been most carefully trained. Hoare-Scott abandoned this when he joined the RAF on a direct-entry commission in March 1940. With training completed, he arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 17 1940. After converting to Hurricanes he joined 601 Squadron at Debden on September 1. Hoare-Scott was killed on November 20 1940, when his Hurricane crashed at Broadclyst, soon after taking off from Exeter. He was 29. Hoare-Scott is buried in St Mary’s churchyard, Frensham. APO 4.3.40 PO 17.8.40

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COLIN ANTHONY HOBSON

JOHN STEPHEN ARTHUR HODGE

42566

812278

PO

Pilot

British

600 Squadron

Born on October 25 1918, Hobson was educated at Eastbourne. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 26 1939, as a pupil pilot.

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

141 Squadron

Hodge joined 500 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand. Called to fulltime service on August 24 1939, he later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and with training completed he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down for Blenheim training. He joined 141 Squadron at Dyce on August 19 1940.

With training completed, he arrived at 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on February 10 1940, converted to Blenheims and joined 600 Squadron on May 7. On October 3 1940 Hobson was captain of Blenheim L 4905, which had engine failure during a routine patrol in heavy rain. He crashed into trees on high ground at Broadstone Warren, Forest Row, Sussex in the early hours of the morning. Hobson and his crew of two, Sergeant D E Hughes, air gunner and AC 2 C F Cooper, radar operator, were all killed. Hobson was 21 and he is buried in All Saints’ churchyard, Banstead, Surrey.

He was posted from 141 to 410 (RCAF) Squadron on August 5 1941. He was killed on July 15 1942, as a Flight Sergeant with 159 Squadron, operating in Liberators from St Jean d’Acre, Palestine. Hodge is remembered on the Alamein Memorial, Column 249.

ARTHUR JOHN HODGKINSON 45353

APO 19.8.39 PO 9.2.40

Sgt

Pilot

FL

Pilot

British

64 Squadron

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on February 3 1936, as a pupil pilot. Hobson was posted to 7 FTS, Peterborough on April 18 and with training completed, he joined 3 Squadron at Kenley on October 25 1936.

He later applied for pilot training and was selected. With training completed, Hodgkinson had joined 219 Squadron by December 1939. He damaged an unidentified enemy aircraft during the night of July 21/22 1940, on August 15 he damaged a Ju 88 and during the night of October 25/26 he destroyed a Do 17 in the Kenley area, the first confirmed victory in a Beaufighter. In January 1941 Hodgkinson teamed up with Sergeant B E Dye and he was commissioned on February 19. During the night of February 26/27 they damaged a He 111 and on March 13/14 they destroyed a Do 17. On the 15th Hodgkinson joined 54 OTU at Church Fenton, as an instructor. It would seem that he almost immediately rejoined 219 Squadron, as he destroyed a He 111 during the night of April 7/8, flying with Sergeant Dye. On the 10/11th they probably destroyed a Ju 88, on April 30/ May 1 a He 111 was destroyed and an unidentified enemy aircraft damaged, on May 9/10 and 16/17th two He 111s were destroyed, on June 21/22 an unidentified enemy aircraft was destroyed, on the 25/26th a He 111 and on July 27/28 a Ju 88. Hodgkinson was awarded the DFC (11.4.41) and a Bar (6.6.41). Dye was awarded the DFM (2.5.41) and a Bar (6.6.41). Hodgkinson was rested from operations until March 1942, when he and Dye joined 264 Squadron at Colerne. During the night of June 28/29 they damaged a Do 217 SE of Portland Bill. In February 1943 Hodgkinson was posted overseas and joined 23 Squadron in Malta. On March 15 he shot down a He 111 of II/KG 26 over Catania, Sicily. On the 23rd, on a trainbusting operation over Western Sicily, a bullet fired from the ground entered the cockpit of the Mosquito and killed the navigator, Warrant Officer W A Woodman. Hodgkinson destroyed two Ju 88s W of Sicily on April 26/27. He was killed on July 10 1943, attacking an airfield in the Rome area, in Mosquito NJ 640. His navigator, Sergeant V Cropper, was also lost. Hodgkinson was 27. He is buried in Beach Head War Cemetery, Anzio, Italy. He was awarded the DSO (23.7.43).

He was still with the squadron at the outbreak of war but went to 609 Squadron at Drem on November 19 1939. On December 8 1939 Hobson joined 72 Squadron, also at Drem. On February 18 1940 he went to 64 Squadron at Church Fenton, as ‘A’ Flight Commander, and was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on the 26th. Over Dunkirk on May 29 he damaged a Bf 109. Hobson was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose from 64 on October 9 1940, as an instructor. He went to CFS, Upavon for a course on December 14 1940. No further service details traced. Hobson was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Squadron Leader. APO 30.3.36 PO 3.2.37 FO 3.9.38 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

WILLIAM FRANCIS CRIPPS HOBSON 26180

SL

Pilot

British

601 Squadron Hobson was born on December 28 1910 and educated at Wellington College. He entered RAF College, Cranwell on January 10 1929, as a Flight Cadet. On graduation, he was awarded a Permanent Commission and on December 20 1930 he joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch.

On February 26 1934 Hobson went on a course to the Air Armament School, Eastchurch. He joined the staff at No 1 Air Defence Group, ADGB, London on September 9 1935. He was posted to the Aircraft Depot, Karachi on March 14 1936. Hobson returned to the UK in 1938 and on August 16 he joined the staff at 6 Armament Training Station, Warmwell. He was posted to 4 Armament Training Station at West Freugh on May 8 1939. Hobson arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 4 1940, for a refresher course. After converting to Hurricanes, he went to 64 Squadron at Kenley on July 4 as a supernumerary. Hobson took command of 601 Squadron at Tangmere on the 20th, leading it until August 10, when he was admitted to hospital. He retired from the RAF on May 23 1956, as a Wing Commander, retaining the rank of Group Captain.

PO 19.2.41 FO 19.2.42 FL 19.2.43

WILLIAM HENRY HODGSON 36269

WILLIAM HENRY HODDS Sgt

Radar Operator

British

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

85 Squadron

Hodgson was born at Frankton Junction on September 30 1920. In late October 1938 he joined the Civil Reserve of Pilots. In early 1939 he applied for a short service commission in the RNZAF and on June 26 began his elementary flying training, at the Otago Aero Club, Dunedin.

PO 20.12.30 FO 20.6.32 FL 1.4.36 SL 1.12.38 WC 1.3.41 WC 1.10.46

908359

219 Squadron

Hodgkinson, from Hampstead, London, was born in 1916 and educated at Amersham Grammar School. He joined the RAF as an Aircraft Apprentice in January 1932 (565887) and passed out in December 1934, as a Fitter, Aero Engines.

DESMOND BOGAN HOBSON 37736

British

25 Squadron On September 12 Hodgson went to No 1 FTS, Wigram, was awarded his flying badge on November 23 and sailed for the UK in early March 1940, arriving on April 13. Having transferred into the RAF, he was posted to No 1 Flying Practice Unit at Meir in late April, as a supernumerary, pending a vacancy at OTU. Hodgson arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 14 1940, converted to Hurricanes and joined 85 Squadron at Debden on the 24th. He destroyed a Do 17 and a Bf 109 and damaged a Bf 110 on August 18, shared in destroying two Do 17s on the 26th, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 28th and destroyed two Bf 110s, probably another and damaged a He 111 on the 30th. In combat on the 31st Hodgson damaged a Do 17 and probably destroyed a Bf 109 and was then hit himself. With damaged oil lines and glycol tank and his engine on fire, Hodgson prepared to bale out but saw he was over a densely populated area and decided to attempt a forced-landing elsewhere. He kept the flames under control by side slipping

Hodds joined the RAFVR in November 1939. He probably volunteered for aircrew and later did a radar course. Hodds joined 25 Squadron at North Weald and in the Battle of Britain period he flew only one operational sortie, on October 7 1940. No further service details traced.

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APO (RNZAF) 12.9.39 PO 13.4.40

a Bf 109, on the 12th and 15th destroyed Bf 109s and on the 27th probably another. He was awarded the DFC (25.10.40). On November 6 1940 Hogan went to Grangemouth, to form 58 OTU but the airfield was not ready, so he went to Church Fenton on the 25th, to form 54 OTU, returning to Grangemouth on December 29 1940. Hogan went to the USA in June 1941, to set up pilot training there. In August 1942, in Washington with the RAF Delegations, he was made Director of Flying Training RAF in the USA, as a Group Captain. He returned to the UK in late 1943 and in December was made Chief Instructor at the Empire Central Flying School, Hullavington. In April 1945 he became CO of 19 FTS, when it was formed at Cranwell. He went to RAF Staff College at Haifa in April 1946. Made a CB (1955), Hogan held a series of appointments before retiring on April 29 1962 as an Air Vice-Marshal. His portrait was drawn by Cuthbert Orde. Hogan died on June 28 1993.

CLAUDE GORDON HODSON

PO 20.12.30 FO 20.6.32 FL 1.4.36 SL 1.12.38 WC 1.3.41 GC 1.1.44 AC 1.7.53 AVM 1.7.56

and crash-landed in a field near Shotgate, Essex, narrowly missing anti-invasion obstacles. He was awarded the DFC (25.10.40). On December 5 1940 Hodgson claimed a Bf 109 destroyed. He then became ill and was classed as medically unfit for operational flying. The squadron began to re-equip with Havocs in February 1941 and on March 13 Hodgson went along as a passenger, to gain air experience. Piloted by Geoffrey Allard, the Havoc took off, then suddenly appeared to lose speed, banked to the left, went into a double spin and dived to the ground. Hodgson, Allard and a second passenger, Sergeant F R Walker-Smith, were all killed. The crash was believed to have been caused by the top nose panel becoming detached, jamming the rudder. Hodgson is buried in Saffron Walden Cemetery, Essex. In Wickford, Essex a road is named Hodgson Way in his memory and a memorial was erected near to the scene of his 1940 crash.

116806

Sgt

Pilot

Rhodesian

GC 1.7.47

238, 1 and 229 Squadrons

DOUGLAS WILLIAM HOGG

Hodson joined the RAFVR in July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754668). Called up on September 1, he completed his elementary training at 7 EFTS, Desford and moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 20 Course, which ran from May 13 to August 17 1940.

77977

PO

Pilot

British

25 Squadron

Hogg, of Thornliebank, Glasgow, must have already had some flying experience when he joined the RAF on February 1 1940, with a direct-entry RAFVR commission. He joined 25 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on February 11. Hogg shared in destroying a Ju 88 on August 12.

With the course completed, he arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 17th and converted to Hurricanes. He was posted to 238 Squadron at Middle Wallop on September 11. However, by the 16th he had moved to No 1 Squadron at Wittering. Hodson made his first flight with No 1 on the 18th and his final operational sortie with it on September 27. He joined 229 Squadron at Northolt next day and flew his first operational sortie on the 29th. On the 30th he made a forced-landing in Hurricane V 7411, possibly after being damaged in combat. Hodson was posted to the Middle East in early 1941 and on January 29 he flew to Malta and joined 261 Squadron. Hodson was one of nine pilots who arrived on that day and it is not clear whether he flew one of the six Hurricanes in or flew in as a passenger in one of the two navigating Wellingtons. When 261 was disbanded in May Hodson went to the newly-formed 185 Squadron. Commissioned in December 1941, Hodson served later with 242 Squadron in North Africa. He moved to the SRAF on August 26 1945.

He was killed on September 3 1940, when he was shot down over North Weald in daylight by an RAF Hurricane of 46 Squadron, flown by Flight Lieutenant A C Rabagliati. His gunner, Sergeant E Powell, baled out, unhurt. The Blenheim, L 1512, crashed near Greenstead Green, Essex. Hogg was 23. He is buried in Eastwood Cemetery, Glasgow. PO 1.2.40

EDWARD SYDNEY HOGG 70312

FL

Pilot

British

152 Squadron

Born in Yorkshire in 1917, Hogg joined Class ‘A’ of the RAFO on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 8 1937. He carried out his intermediate and advanced training at 8 FTS, Montrose. On January 19 1938 he was posted to 66 Squadron at Duxford. It would seem that Hogg got a short service commission in March 1938.

PO 6.12.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 6.12.43 In October 1938 Hogg went to 11 FTS, Perth as an instructor, later moving to 12 FTS, Grantham, where he instructed until some time in 1939, when he joined 609 Squadron at Drem. Hogg went to 152 Squadron at Acklington from 609 on November 14 1939. He served with the squadron in the Battle of Britain. On August 23 1940 he destroyed a Ju 88. 152 Squadron ORB was very sketchy up to September 30 1940. From October 1 to December 5 Hogg flew no operational sorties, then on December 6 he was recorded as returning from sick leave. He may have become non-effective sick in late August or September. He was at RAF Warmwell from October 22, as a supernumerary. In December 1940 he went to 58 OTU, Grangemouth as an instructor. In March 1941 Hogg went to CFS, Upavon for an instructor’s course, after which he returned to 58 OTU, remaining there until November 1941, when he went to 4 FTS. In September 1943 Hogg was posted to Canada and served at a unit in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, as an instructor. He returned to the UK in June 1945 and was released from the RAF in October as a Wing Commander. Hogg died on December 23 1986 and was cremated at Lawnswood Crematorium, Leeds, Yorkshire.

HENRY ALGERNON VICKERS HOGAN 26181

SL

Pilot

British

501 Squadron Born on October 25 1909, Hogan was educated at Malvern College and entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1929, as a Flight Cadet. He graduated in December 1930, with a Permanent Commission, and joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch.

In March 1932 Hogan was posted to the Fleet Air Arm at Leuchars. On November 9 he joined 404 (Fleet Fighter) Flight at Netheravon, operating at sea from HMS Courageous. On May 2 1933 he moved to 800 Squadron. In July 1934 Hogan was posted to CFS, Upavon for a course, after which he went to No 1 FTS, Leuchars, to instruct Naval and Army officers. He returned to CFS on August 31 1936, to join the staff there. On January 3 1938 Hogan was posted to No 1 Bomber Group Long Range Development Unit and took part in the RAF Long Distance Flight to Australia in November 1938, flying one of the three Wellesleys. He joined ‘P’ staff at the Air Ministry in January 1939, then became CFI at 15 FTS, Lossiemouth, when it was formed on May 1 1939, and moved with it to Middle Wallop in May 1940. Hogan went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 6, for a refresher course and to convert to Hurricanes. He went to 501 Squadron at Croydon on June 25, as a supernumerary Squadron Leader, and assumed command of the squadron on the 29th. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on July 20, damaged Do 17s on August 12 and 16, damaged a Bf 110 on the 18th, shared a Do 17 on the 27th and destroyed a He 111 on the 30th. Hogan claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed on September 17 and next day he was himself shot down in combat with He 111s and Bf 109s over West Malling. He baled out, unhurt, and his Hurricane, V 6620, crashed near Charing. On the 27th Hogan shared a Bf 110, on October 5 destroyed a Bf 110, on the 7th shared

APO (RAFO) 9.5.37 PO 8.3.38 FO 8.9.39 FL 8.9.40 SL 1.12.41

JOHN HENRY HOGG 751642

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

141 Squadron

Hogg, of Wolviston, Co Durham, joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. He was called to full-time service on September 1. After completing his training, Hogg went to 5 OTU, Aston Down, to convert to Defiants. He joined 141 Squadron at Dyce on August 21 1940 and served with it until August 7 1941, when he joined 410 (RCAF) Squadron. He was killed on July 23 1942, as a Flight Sergeant with 159 Squadron, operating in Liberators from St Jean d’Acre, Palestine. Hogg was 22. Hogg is remembered on the Alamein Memorial, Column 249.

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RALPH VINCENT HOGG 754794

Sgt

Pilot

British

EUSTACE HOLDEN 616 Squadron

37970

FL

Pilot

British

501 Squadron

Hogg was educated at Hartlepool Grammar School. He joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 23 1940.

Born in Doncaster on December 28 1912, Holden learned to fly at Doncaster Flying Club. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio training on June 8 1936.

After converting to Spitfires, Hogg joined 616 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on October 6. Returning from an uneventful sortie on the 14th, he was unable to lower his undercarriage and made a crash-landing at base. Hogg joined 41 Squadron at Hornchurch on November 4 1940.He was reported ‘Missing’ on December 10, when he failed to return from a patrol, in Spitfire P 7326. He was 24 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 15.A memorial plaque for him was presented to Hartlepool College on June 16 2000.

Holden was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham on August 22 and with training completed, he joined 56 Squadron at North Weald on April 24 1937. Holden was posted to 501 Squadron at Filton on May 5 1940 and went with it to France on the 10th. He claimed a Ju 88 and a Do 17 destroyed on the 12th and a He 111 on the 27th. The squadron withdrew on June 18 and it re-assembled at Croydon on the 21st. Holden was ‘B’ Flight Commander by June 30 1940, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. He damaged a Do 17 on July 12. He was taken ill on the 22nd and next day posted to RAF Biggin Hill, as non-effective sick. He was admitted to the Royal Masonic Hospital at Hammersmith and, after recovery, he rejoined 501 on September 25 1940. Holden, who had been awarded the DFC (16.8.40), returned to operational flying and on the 30th he probably destroyed a Bf 109. He re-assumed command of ‘B’ Flight on October 2. He damaged a Ju 88 on October 4, damaged a Bf 110 on the 5th, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 7th, damaged a Ju 88 on the 8th, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 12th, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 25th and damaged another on the 26th. Holden took command of 501 Squadron on November 6 1940, leading it until early June 1941, when he was posted overseas. After converting to twins at CFS, Upavon, he went to Lagos, as OC Dispatch Flight. In early 1943 Holden returned to the UK and was given a staff job at Air Ministry, involved with Fighter Training. He went to RAF Staff College at Gerrards Cross in September 1944, after which he was posted to the Far East, to HQ ACSEA, Kandy. After returning to the UK in June 1947, Holden held a series of staff jobs before retiring on December 28 1964, as a Wing Commander. Holden died in February 2001 and he is buried in Rosehill Cemetery, Doncaster. Younger brother of K Holden.

RICHARD MALZARD HOGG 33486

PO

Pilot

British

152 Squadron

Hogg was born in Jersey on July 2 1919 and spent some of his early life in Ceylon where his father, who served in the Royal Navy in both World Wars, was a headmaster. Hogg was at his father’s school and later attended Victoria College in Jersey. He captained the shooting Vlll and was a platoon commander in the OTC. He entered RAF College, Cranwell on April 28 1938 as a Flight Cadet, having gained a Prize Cadetship. He represented the College at shooting and was awarded the R M Groves Memorial Flying Prize as the best all round pilot of his term. After the outbreak of war, Cranwell cadets, who had not completed their courses, were enlisted in the regular RAF on September 7 1939, as Airmen u/t Pilots and each given an Airman number. Hogg (581714) graduated on October 23 1939 and was granted a Permanent Commission. He went to 11 Group Pool at St Athan on the 24th, where he converted to Blenheims. He joined the newly-formed 145 Squadron at Croydon on October 30 1939. In Blenheim K 7114, Hogg collided with another Blenheim W of Gatwick on February 10 1940. Both aircraft got safely back to base and the crews were uninjured. On March 31 Hogg joined 263 Squadron at Filton, then equipped with Gladiators. He was a member of the air party which left Filton on April 19 for Prestwick via Sealand and he almost certainly embarked on HMS Glorious on April 21, bound for Norway, to provide cover for British and Norwegian troops in action against the Germans there. Operating from a frozen lake at Lesjaskog, all the squadron’s aircraft were unserviceable within three days from the 24th and 263 was back at Turnhouse by May 1 1940, to re-equip. Hogg was posted to 152 Squadron at Acklington on May 10. The squadron went south to Warmwell on July 12. He damaged a Do 17 on the 18th and on the 25th he shared in the destruction of a Do 17 and a Ju 87. On August 8 he destroyed two Bf 109s and damaged a third, on the 12th he shared a Ju 88 and also shared in the probable destruction of two more. On the 21st and 23rd he shared in the destruction of two Ju 88s. Hogg was shot down and killed by Bf 109s in combat over the Channel on August 25 1940, in Spitfire R 6810. He was 21 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 8. Hogg had a brother, Flight Lieutenant J E Hogg, a pilot who was killed on March 15 1942, aged 24, serving with 234 Squadron. He is buried in Ringwood Cemetery.

APO 4.8.36 PO 8.6.37 FO 8.12.38 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41 WC 1.7.44 WC 1.7.49

KENNETH HOLDEN 90705

Pilot

British

British

616 Squadron

After converting to Spitfires, he was posted to 2 Ferry Pilot Pool in December 1939. He rejoined 616 Squadron on January 3 1940. Over Dunkirk on May 28 1940, Holden destroyed a Bf 109 and probably a second and on June 1 he did the same again. He went to the School of Air Navigation, St Athan on July 29, for No 1 Fighter Pilots’ Short Navigation Course, which ended on August 23. He rejoined 616 on the 26th. On September 1 Holden damaged two Bf 109s and on the 27th he destroyed another. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on November 5 1940, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant In mid-May 1941 he was given command of 610 Squadron, then at Westhampnett. Holden destroyed a Bf 109 on June 22, damaged two more on June 25 and 26, destroyed a Bf 109 and shared another on July 6 and got a probable Bf 109 on the 10th. He was awarded the DFC (15.7.41). Tour-expired, Holden was posted away in November 1941, to the staff at HQ 12 Group. He did not return to operations and was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Wing Commander. Holden rejoined the RAuxAF in 1946 and he took command of 616 Squadron, when it was reformed at Finningley in July 1946. He held the command until 1950. Holden died in 1991. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in 1941. He was the elder brother of E Holden.

ROBERT DUDLEY HOGG Sgt

Pilot

Holden joined 616 Squadron, AAF in early 1939 and flew his first solo, as a trainee pilot, on March 26. Called up on September 4, he completed his training and arrived at 11 Group Pool, Sutton Bridge on November 26.

PO 23.10.39

754041

FO

56 and 17 Squadron

Hogg, from Bedford, joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 6 FTS, Little Rissington on No 19 Course, from April 27 to August 3 1940.

APO (AAF) 15.4.39 PO 4.9.39 FO 4.9.40 FL 4.9.41 SL 6.9.42 SL (AAFRO) 1.8.46

He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 3rd and after converting to Hurricanes, Hogg was posted to 56 Squadron at North Weald on the 31st. He moved to 17 Squadron at Debden on September 11. Hogg claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on the 27th, shared a Do 17 on October 24, shared a Bf 109 on the 29th and destroyed a Ju 87 and shared another on November 8. Following a combat with Ju 87s and Bf 109s off Burnham on November 11, Hogg crashed at Monckton, near Manston and was killed. He was 22 and he is buried in Bedford Cemetery.

GERALD ARTHUR HOLDER 81688

PO

Observer

British

236 Squadron

Holder was born in Plymouth on May 2 1922. He enlisted in the RAFVR on September 6 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (901945). On December 1 Holder was posted to No 1 ITW, Cambridge, moving on January 1 1940

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Force on July 17 1936 and this unit became the Southern Rhodesian Air Unit on April 1 1938. He was awarded his wings on May 13 1938. Holderness went to England with a draft of Southern Rhodesians in July 1940, landing in Liverpool on August 13. He was commissioned in the RAFVR and he arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 20. After converting to Hurricanes, Holderness joined No 1 Squadron at Northolt on September 4. He destroyed a Do 17 on September 7. He moved to 229 Squadron at Northolt on October 17. After rejoining the Southern Rhodesian Forces on August 26 1945, Holderness went back from the UK to Rhodesia and farmed there until 1971. He then sold his farm and returned to the family law business. He was killed in a road traffic accident near his home in South Africa on April 15 2008, aged 96. Holderness had two younger brothers in the RAF. One was on anti-submarine duties and was awarded the DSO, DFC and AFC, the other flew Mosquitos in 100 Group, engaged in long-range escorting of night bombers. Both brothers survived the war, one joined the family firm and the other remained in England and joined British European Airways.

to 9 AONS, Squires Gate. He went to 9 B&GS, Penrhos and on completion of the course Holder was commissioned from LAC on June 30 and posted to No 1 (Coastal) OTU at Silloth. He joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island on July 24 1940. The squadron was seconded to Fighter Command during the Battle of Britain, flying later from St Eval and Aldergrove. On November 19 1940 Holder was posted away with his flight. It joined with a flight of 235 Squadron at Aldergrove, to reform 272 Squadron. He flew his first sortie with 272 on November 21. Holder moved to 254 Squadron at Sumburgh in April 1941, remaining with it until November 9, when he went for a course to No 2 School of Air Navigation at Cranage. On December 22 1941 Holder joined No 1 OADU at Portreath. He later applied for pilot training, was selected and in March 1943 he went to ITW at Torquay, moving on to Grading School at Alton Barnes in April. Holder went to Canada in May, to 19 EFTS, Virden, Manitoba, then to 4 SFTS, Saskatoon in July and passed out in November 1943. In December Holder went to No 1 GRS at Summerside, Prince Edward Island, for a course. He returned to the UK in May 1944 and was posted to 14 EFTS, Elmdon, as an instructor. From September Holder was at No1 (Middle East) ARC and in November went to RAF Gianiclis on 38 GR Course, which he completed on January 18 1945. Back in the UK, Holder was posted to 13 OTU, Harwell in April, later moving with the unit to Finmere. In August he went to RAF Eastchurch and in October was declared unfit for flying. Holder went to RAF Innsworth, as Squadron Commander at No 1 PHU. He was released from the RAF in September 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He studied at University College, Exeter, becoming a B Sc in 1949 and a Certified Teacher in 1950. In July 1950 Holder rejoined the RAF on a five year short service commission, as an Education Officer. On release in 1955 he became a Physics teacher at Hautlieu School, Jersey. In July 1956 Holder went to the Atomic Energy Research Establishment at Harwell, as an Experimental Officer, Demonstrator and Physicist at the Reactor School. In 1966-67 he went, as a Technical Expert, as adviser on Reactor Training in Pakistan. From 1968 until his retirement in 1981, Holder was leader of the Cobalt 60 Section. He died on March 5 2011.

FO (RAFVR) 1.8.40 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

ARTHUR LAWRENCE HOLLAND 05204

Pilot

British

British

501 and 65 Squadrons

On October 24 1931 Holland relinquished his RAFO commission, when he was granted a Permanent Commission in the RAF, as a University Entrant. He was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham on October 24 1931 and after completing his training, he joined 17 Squadron at Upavon on March 27 1932. Holland went to RAF Henlow in August 1934, for a two-year Officers’ Engineering Course and was posted to RAF Gosport in August 1936, as Officer i/c Aircraft Repair Squadron, responsible for servicing the Torpedo Training Squadron and the FAA on board HMS Furious and Courageous. In March 1938 Holland was promoted to Squadron Leader and sent to Air HQ India, as Command Engineering Officer. He returned to the UK in December 1939. In January 1940 he was posted to Air Ministry on Engineering duties, in the Directorate of Repair and Maintenance, firstly at Harrogate and later in London. Holland’s request to be allowed to return to flying was answered on July 8 1940, when he was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, for a refresher course and to convert to Hurricanes. On August 5 Holland was attached to 501 Squadron at Gravesend, as a supernumerary, to gain combat experience. He made a forced-landing outside Dover on August 12 after a combat with Bf 109s off Westgate, during which he probably destroyed a Bf 109. Holland was posted to Rochford on August 13, to command 65 Squadron. He converted himself to Spitfires and damaged a Bf 110 on the 26th. Next day the squadron flew north to Turnhouse. On October 30 1940 Holland was admitted to Edinburgh Infirmary with a suspected tumour behind the right eye. He was grounded and non-effective sick for four months. Holland was transferred to the Technical Branch and in April 1941 he became Chief Technical Officer at 58 OTU, Grangemouth. He moved to 51 OTU, Cranfield in February 1942 and in July 1943 went to the Ministry of Aircraft Production. In September 1944 Holland joined the Directing Staff at RAF Staff College, Bracknell, as an Acting Group Captain. He held a number of commands in India, the Canal Zone and the UK in the post-war RAF. Holland was made a CBE (1.1.55) and he retired on October 25 1960 as a Group Captain.

ROBERT HOLDER Sgt

Pilot

Born on May 4 1909, Holland was educated at Wellington College and then went to Magdalene College, Cambridge, to read Engineering, in October 1928. He joined the University Air Squadron in January 1930 and trained in Avro 504s and Bristol Fighters. Later in the year he began training with the RAFO at Hatfield and was commissioned in Class ‘AA’ of the RAFO March 1931.

PO 30.6.40 FO 30.6.41 FL 30.6.42 FL 26.7.50

391356

SL

151 Squadron

Holder was born on April 16 1917 at Bidford-on-Avon, Warwickshire. He went to New Zealand in 1938 and was employed on a farm at Hicks Bay, Gisborne. At the outbreak of war Holder volunteered for pilot training in the RNZAF and he reported to Ground Training School at Weraroa on November 19 1939. In December he was posted to 2 FTS, New Plymouth and moved to 2 FTS, Woodbourne on March 11 1940.Holder completed his training at the end of June and was promoted to Sergeant. He sailed for the UK on July 12 in the RMS Rangitane, arriving on August 27. After a spell at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, he was posted on September 11 1940 to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, where he converted to Hurricanes. On September 30 Holder joined 151 Squadron at Wittering. In the evening of October 26 he was one of a group practising night circuits and landings at Coleby Grange. The Hurricane ahead of him took off but crashed and burst into flames, some 500 yards beyond the windward boundary. The Flight Commander asked Holder if he was alright and said no one would think badly of him if he preferred not to take off. Holder said he would go and the Flight Commander checked his gyro, to see that it was uncaged. The Hurricane took off and shortly afterwards went into a left-hand turn and flew into the ground 800 yards beyond the first crash. Holder was killed. He is buried in Bidford-on-Avon Cemetery.

PO (RAFO) 30.3.31 PO 24.10.31 FO 24.4.32 FL 1.4.36 SL 1.12.38 WC 1.3.41 1.7.44 WC 1.10.46 GC 1.7.54

GC

JOHN BROWNING HOLDERNESS SR 72329

FL

Pilot

Rhodesian

1 and 229 Squadrons

DENNIS FREDERICK HOLLAND 77269

Holderness was born in Rhodesia about 1912, the son of an English lawyer, who emigrated from Yorkshire in 1902. Three years later Mr Holderness became a partner in a law practice that was started by Sir Thomas Scanlen in Sailsbury, Rhodesia in 1896.

PO Pilot

British

2 Squadron

Born in 1917, Holland was educated at Newbury, Berkshire and he had obtained his ‘A’ and ‘B’ licences by the time he was 17. He became the youngest Civil Air Guard instructor in Britain and in 1938 he was instructing at the Portsmouth Aero Club.

Holderness was an officer in the 1st Battalion, Rhodesia Regiment (Territorial Force). On November 13 1935 he was attached to the Air Section of the Battalion. The attachment ended on April 9 1936. He transferred to the newly-formed Air Section of the Southern Rhodesia Defence

By September 1939, when he was called up, as a member of Class ‘F’ of the RAF Reserve (700301), Holland had 3000 flying hours.

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he claimed another Bf 109 destroyed, on the 13th damaged a Do 17, on the 15th probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another and on the 17th he probably destroyed another Bf 109. He was awarded the DFC (26.11.40). In early 1941 Holland was posted to 91 Squadron at Hawkinge, as a Flight Commander. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on March 13, got a probable Bf 109 on April 24 and damaged one on May 11. Rested from operations, Holland was made OC 5 Squadron at 61 OTU, Heston in November 1941. He was posted to 615 Squadron at Fairwood Common in February 1942, as a Flight Commander. In October 1942 Holland was given command of 607 Squadron at Jessore in India. He destroyed a Nakajima ‘Oscar’ on March 5 1943. Later in March he took command of 615 Squadron at Feni, India. Holland was posted away in January 1944. He remained in the RAF after the war and he was killed on November 17 1954 whilst flying in a Vampire of 233 OCU which collided with another aircraft of the same unit and exploded near Port Eynon, the Gower Peninsula, South Wales duing a practice formation attack. Flight Sergeant P W D Green was also killed. Holland’s name is on a Battle of Britain memorial plaque unveiled at Malvern College in 2010.

Commissioned in December 1939, he joined 72 Squadron at Church Fenton in early 1940. On August 15 1940 Holland destroyed a Ju 88, on September 4 he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and another damaged, on the 5th a Bf 109 destroyed and another damaged and on the 15th a He 111 destroyed. Holland was shot down over Canterbury on September 20. He baled out, severely wounded, and died soon after admission to hospital. His Spitfire, X 4410, is believed to have crashed at Stiff Street, Sittingbourne. Holland is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Chaddleworth, Berkshire. PO 10.12.39

KENNETH CHRISTOPHER HOLLAND 754503

Sgt

Pilot

Australian

152 Squadron PO 23.10.39 FO 23.10.40 FL 23.10.41 SL 1.6.45

Holland was born on January 29 1920 in Sydney, New South Wales, the son of Mr H G and Mrs I G C Holland, and grew up in the coastal suburbs there. Mr Holland, a commercial traveller, had served in the Australian Imperial Force in the First World War and had suffered shell shock. Mrs Holland was born in Dorset, England.

ROBERT MEREDITH HOLLAND 56029

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

600 Squadron

Born on January 10 1911, Holland joined the RAF on November 17 1938, as an Aircrafthand (626982).

Kenneth Holland attended Randwick Intermediate High School and was a member of Tamarama Surf Life Saving Club. He became friendly with a fellow member of the club, Major H I E “Toby” Ripley (born 1884), who had served in the Worcestershire Regiment and been gassed. In 1936 Holland accompanied Mr Ripley to England. The older man bought a house called “Melorne” at Camelford, Cornwall and, after the pair returned to Australia to obtain permission from Holland’s parents, acted as his guardian. Holland adopted the name Kenneth Christopher Holland Ripley but he joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot, under his original name. In 1936-37 he was at Airspeed Aeronautical College. Called up at the outbreak of war, he finished his elementary flying training at 11 EFTS, Perth. With training completed at FTS, Holland went to 7 OTU, Hawarden. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 152 Squadron at Warmwell on August 1 1940. On September 17 Holland shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 and on the 19th he shot another down into the sea. On the 25th Holland attacked a He 111 and set it on fire. Seeing a parachute, he went in for a closer look but was shot down by a gunner still in the stricken Heinkel. His Spitfire, N 3173, crashed near Church Farm, Woolverton, Somerset. Holland was found to have been shot in the head. The Heinkel crashed at Church Farm. Four of the crew were killed, only the pilot baling out and being captured. Holland was cremated at Weymouth Crematorium. Mr Ripley had a memorial stone placed near the site of the crash. In 1976 the stone was moved. It is now on a grass verge opposite the Red Lion Inn, Woolverton, close to the village war memorial.

He later remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. After radio training at Cranwell and Yatesbury, he was posted to RAF Aldergrove on September 3 1939, for a gunnery course. Holland joined 600 Squadron at Northolt on October 2 1939 and shortly afterwards was detached to 25 Squadron, also at Northolt, for training as a Radar Operator/ Mechanic. He moved to Manston, with a flight of three Blenheims, for experimental duties in co-operation with the Chain Home Low RDF Station at Foreness. After a short spell with a Ferry Unit, Holland rejoined 600 at Manston and although a qualified Wop/AG, he flew on operations, as a radar operator. He remained with the squadron until December 1 1940, when he was promoted to Flight Sergeant and attached to No 1 Special Duty List at Uxbridge, for specialist duties in Canada and the USA. After serving in Canada for some time, Holland was posted to No 1 Radio School at Clinton, Ontario on August 12 1942, as an instructor. In 1943 Holland went to the US Navy Technical College at Corpus Christi, Texas, for a radar course, after which he returned to the UK. On December 26 1943 he was posted to 311 Squadron, moved to 51 OTU, Cranfield on January 16 1944, as an instructor, and having been promoted to Warrant Officer, he was posted later to HQ ADGB. Commissioned in September 1944, Holland joined 125 Squadron at Coltishall on October 7. He moved to 143 Wing in France on December 12, joined 614 Squadron in Italy on April 24 1945 and was discharged at his own request in January 1946, being then timeexpired. Holland rejoined the RAF in January 1947 as a Flight Sergeant. He retired in June 1967 on medical grounds as a Warrant Officer. He died in 1997.

ROBERT HUGH HOLLAND 33487

FO

Pilot

British

92 Squadron

PO 28.9.44 FO 28.3.45

Holland was born in Ceylon and educated at Malvern College. He entered RAF College, Cranwell on April 28 1938, as a Flight Cadet.

ERNEST JAMES HOLLIS 970073

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

25 Squadron

Hollis joined the RAFVR in October 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. He joined 25 Squadron at North Weald on September 30 1940, made his first operational flight on October 2 and was still with the squadron on December 10 1940.

After the outbreak of war Cranwell cadets who had not completed their courses were enlisted in the regular RAF on September 7 1939, as Airmen u/t Pilots and each given an Airman number. Holland (581715) graduated on October 23 1939 and was granted a Permanent Commission. Holland arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on October 24 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined the newlyreformed 92 Squadron at Tangmere on October 30. Over France on May 23 1940, he claimed two Bf 110s and a Ju 88 destroyed, on the 24th a Do 17 probably destroyed and on June 2 a He 111 destroyed and probably another, near Dunkirk. Holland shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on July 8, destroyed a Ju 88 on the 15th and shared a Ju 88 on the 25th. He was shot down in combat W of Ashford on September 15, baled out and was injured on landing. He damaged a Bf 109 in the action. Holland was admitted to the Queen Victoria Hospital at East Grinstead. He was treated by Archie McIndoe and became a Guinea Pig. On October 1 1940 Holland was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. On October 14 he damaged a Ju 88, on the 15th he got a probable Bf 109, on the 26th he destroyed a Bf 109, on November 1 he shared another, on the 2nd

During the night of May 3/4 1941, Hollis was flying as radar operator, with Sergeant A M Hill as pilot, when they destroyed a He 111 SE of Derby. On May 8 they destroyed a Ju 88 near Holt, Norfolk, flying in Beaufighter R 2247. Promoted to Warrant Officer on July 1 1942, Hollis was awarded the DFC (12.12.44), serving with 141 Squadron. He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Warrant Officer and he died on January 27 1975.

SYDNEY VICTOR HOLLOWAY 121329

Sgt

Pilot

British

25 Squadron

Holloway was born on February 27 1918. He joined the RAFVR on March 29 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741400) and began his flying training at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble in mid-April. Called up on September 1 1939, he went to No 1 ITW, Cambridge on December 14

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On December 4 1944 Holmes was killed, as a Flight Lieutenant with 487 (RNZAF) Squadron, aged 31. He is buried in the Reichswald Forest War Cemetery, Cleves, Germany.

1939 and was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney on February 1 1940. With training completed, Holloway converted to Blenheims at 5 OTU, Aston Down from June 22 and then on July 6 he joined 25 Squadron at Martlesham Heath. He destroyed a He 111 near Colchester during the night of November 15/16 1940, flying with Sergeant J D Culmer as air gunner and A C Fildes as radar operator. On May 5/6 1941 Holloway damaged a He 111 near Walton, Norfolk, in Beaufighter R2156, with Sergeant R R C Pound as radar operator. On May 8/9 he damaged a Ju 88 near Grantham, in Beaufighter R 2197, again with Pound as radar operator. Commissioned in May 1942, Holloway was posted to 60 OTU, East Fortune on July 20, as an instructor. On January 13 1943 he was attached to 3 FIS, Castle Combe, for an instructor course on Mosquitos, after which he returned to East Fortune, by then renumbered as 132 OTU. On August 8 1943 Holloway joined 85 Squadron at West Malling. He destroyed a Ju 88 on October 8/9 S of Bradwell, in a Mosquito, with Warrant Officer Stanton as radar operator. Holloway flew anti-V 1 patrols in 1944. He was posted to the Ground Controlled Approach School at Honiley in September, for a course. From March 1945 to August 1951 he served with GCA units in Britain and on the Continent. He was made an OBE (9.6.49) for his work with GCA at Gatow during the Berlin Airlift. Holloway went to Air Traffic Control in August 1951. He retired from the RAF on March 2 1968 as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1991.

PO 24.12.39 FO 24.12.40 FL 24.12.41

GEORGE HENRY HOLMES 84682

PO

Air Gunner

British

600 Squadron

Holmes was born in Dalston, London on February 4 1914. His father was killed at Arras in 1917 and in the following year Holmes’ mother died. He was brought up by an aunt. He joined 600 Squadron, AAF on June 17 1937, as an Aircrafthand (800513). Called up on August 24 1939, he trained as an Air Gunner and was with 600 in early 1940. He was gunner in a Blenheim, with Flying Officer T N Hayes as pilot, in the attack on Waalhaven airfield, Rotterdam on May 10 1940. Under intense fire and handicapped by petrol fumes from a burst tank, Holmes directed Hayes in the evasive manoeuvres required to escape enemy fighters and was largely responsible for the aircraft’s safe return to base, the only one of the six involved to do so. Holmes was awarded the DFM (24.5.40) and commissioned in August. On December 20 1940 Holmes was in a Blenheim returning to Catterick after a searchlight co-operation exercise. R/T contact was lost and the aircraft crashed into the side of a hill W of Richmond, Yorkshire. The pilot was killed and Holmes died of his injuries on December 26. He is buried in Catterick Cemetery. Holmes had married on June 14 1940 and his son was born on May 5 1941.

PO 1.5.42 FO 1.11.42 FL 1.5.44 FL 1.11.45 SL 1.7.55

KENNETH BRUCE HOLLOWELL 113338

Sgt

Pilot

British

25 Squadron

PO 19.8.40

Hollowell joined the RAFVR about December 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742759). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 45 Course, which ran from December 11 1939 to June 10 1940.

RAYMOND TOWERS HOLMES 68730

ERIC LEONARD HOLMES Pilot

British

248 Squadron

Holmes, of Ilford, Essex, joined the RAFVR in February 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 13 Course, which ran from September 9 to November 6 1939, for advanced training only. He possibly joined 248 Squadron direct from FTS but he is not mentioned in the squadron ORB until June 5 1940, when operational sorties began to be recorded. On November 14 1940 he attacked a 2500 ton ship in a Norwegian fjord, scoring two direct hits. On June 12 1941 Holmes was killed, as a Flight Sergeant with 248. He was 25 and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 36.

FREDERICK HENRY HOLMES 76583

PO

Pilot

British

British

504 Squadron

He later flew at 7 E&RFTS, Desford and 17 E&RFTS, Barton. Called up at the outbreak of war, Holmes was posted to 4 ITW, Bexhill on October 29 1939. He went to 5 FTS, Sealand on December 9 and whilst there he was courtmartialled and severely reprimanded for low flying. With training completed, he joined 504 Squadron at Wick on June 18 1940. The squadron moved south to Hendon on September 5 and on the 15th Holmes was one of the pilots involved in shooting down a Do 17 over Central London, probably the best-known German casualty in the Battle of Britain. As Holmes sought to administer the coup de grâce to the already badly damaged aircraft, it broke up, a large section of wreckage falling on the forecourt of Victoria Station. The pilot, Oberleutnant Robert Zehbe, baled out, badly wounded. He landed in Kennington and was attacked and further injured by an angry mob of civilians. Although rescued by soldiers, he died next day and was buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery. Two members of his crew were killed and the two others were made PoWs. Holmes’ aircraft was damaged, probably by wreckage from the Dornier, and he baled out, unhurt, and landed in Hugh Street, Chelsea. His Hurricane, P 2725, crashed and burned out outside Fountain Court, Buckingham Palace Road. It was excavated in 2005 and the engine and other parts were recovered. Holmes damaged another Do 17 on September 15 1940. On September 26 504 Squadron moved to Filton and on October 16 Holmes and Flying Officer B E G White took off on an interception sortie and were later diverted to Cardiff because of fog. They had breakfast there with Amy Johnson and returned to Filton later in the day. Holmes was commissioned in June 1941. In late July ‘A’ Flight of 504 was re-numbered 81 Squadron and posted to Leconfield, where the personnel, Holmes included, were kitted out for an unknown destination. They flew to Abbotsinch in Harrows and embarked for Russia on the carrier HMS Argus, which carried crated Hurricanes. On September 1 the squadron flew off in sixes for Vaenga airfield, near Murmansk. Holmes destroyed a Bf 109 on September 26. Operations were flown until mid-November, when pilots of the squadron began converting Russian pilots on to Hurricanes. 81 Squadron left Russia on November 29, leaving all equipment behind, and returned in HMS Kenya, landing at Rosyth on December 6 1941.

PO 25.11.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 25.11.43

Sgt

Pilot

Holmes was born on August 20 1914 at Wallasey, Cheshire and was educated at Wallasey and Calday Grange School. He was a journalist, when he joined the RAFVR in February 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740055) and began his flying training at 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick.

He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 22 and after converting to Blenheims, Hollowell was posted to 25 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on July 6 1940. He served with the squadron in the Battle of Britain. During the night of May 4/5 1941, still with 25 Squadron, Hollowell destroyed an unidentified enemy aircraft and probably another N of The Wash, in Beaufighter R 2156, with Sergeant R G Crossman as his radar operator. On the 16/17th he destroyed a He 111 over the sea near Cromer, again in R 2156, with Crossman. On June 4/5 they destroyed a He 111 at West Runton, near The Wash, in Beaufighter R 2154. Commissioned in November 1941, Hollowell was awarded the AFC (8.6.44). He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. Hollowell died on February 14 2007.

740063

Sgt

152 Squadron

Holmes, of Lincolnshire, joined the RAFVR about July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741791). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and was initially at 27 MU, Shawbury. From there he went to 23 MU Aldergrove on January 6 1940, where he remained until joining 152 Squadron at Acklington on June 22 1940. On July 25 Holmes shared in the destruction of a Do 17, on August 18 he claimed a Ju 87 destroyed and on the 21st he shared a Ju 88. He was posted away to CFS on December 15 1940, presumably to do an instructor’s course.

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got his damaged aircraft safely back to base. For this operation, Homer was awarded the DFC (26.4.40). His last sortie with 44 Squadron was made on the night of May 9/10, which is the last mention of him in the squadron ORB. In August he volunteered for Fighter Command, went to 5 OTU, Aston Down, converted to Hurricanes and was posted from there to No 1 Squadron at Northolt, which he joined on September 2 1940, making his first flight the same day, local flying. On the 7th he damaged a Do 17 near Tilbury. Homer was posted to 242 Squadron at Coltishall on September 21. He was shot down and killed on the 27th, when he crashed in flames at Bluetown, Mintching Wood, Milstead, near Sittingbourne. Homer was 21. He is buried in Godlingston Cemetery, Swanage. There is a memorial plaque at the crash site, dedicated on September 27 1990. He had a brother, Group Captain J W Homer, who was killed on July 18 1944 in a takeoff accident on a routine air service flight in an aircraft of 353 Squadron. Homer was serving with the HQ Unit of ACSEA. He was 37 and he is buried in Karachi.

The squadron went to Turnhouse, where it received Spitfire Vbs in January 1942 and was operational again on February 1. On March 1 Holmes was posted to 2 FIS, Montrose, for an instructor’s course, after which he joined the staff at 5(P) AFU at Ternhill. He returned to 2 FIS on September 17 1942, as an instructor, and stayed with the unit until mid-November 1944. After a short spell with 309 Squadron at Andrews Field in early 1945, Holmes joined 541 Squadron at Benson, a Spitfire photographic-reconnaissance unit. He became a King’s Messenger for Winston Churchill, when he was preparing for the Potsdam Conference, flying mail between London and Biarritz, and Berlin and London when he was at Potsdam. Holmes left the squadron at the end of August and was released from the RAF on October 4 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He worked again as a journalist. He was the subject of a television documentary in 2005. He was made a Freeman of the Metropolitan Borough of Wirral, Cheshire on January 24 that year. Holmes died on June 27 2005. An apartment block, built in 2006 in Wirral, was named Holmes Court in his memory. PO 10.6.41 FO 10.6.42 FL 10.6.43

WILFRED BARWELL HOLROYD 101040

Sgt

Pilot

British

PO 17.12.38

151 and 501 Squadrons

DOUGLAS HAROLD HONE

Holroyd joined the RAFVR about April 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740201). Called up on September 1 1939, he did not take the usual training course but appears to have served with 81 (Communications) Squadron in France, flying Tiger Moths.

80816

ARTHUR GERALD VAUGHAN HOLTON Air Gunner

British

British

615 Squadron

Called up after the outbreak of war, Hone was posted to No 1 ITW, Cambridge on November 11 1939 and on December 30 he went to 12 FTS, Grantham. After he had completed training, Hone moved to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 3 1940, to convert to Hurricanes. He joined 615 Squadron at Kenley on July 6 and saw his first action on the 19th. Hone shared in destroying a He 59 on July 27 and claimed a Do 17 destroyed on the 29th. He was attacked by a Hurricane on August 14 and, with instruments shot away, he managed to land at Kenley. On the 20th Hone shared in destroying a Do 17 and on the 24th he engaged some Do 17s but after his glycol tank was damaged by return fire, he made a crash-landing in a field at Meopham, uninjured. Two days later he was wounded in the leg and thigh by cannon shell splinters, in an attack by a Bf 109. Hone was admitted to Southend Hospital and was non-effective sick until September 29 1940. He flew operationally again from September 30 with the squadron, then at Prestwick. On October 20 Hone flew an uneventful patrol between Kenley and Biggin Hill. There is no further mention of him in the squadron ORB until November 30, when he rejoined 615 at Northolt. There is nothing known to account for his six-week absence. On February 26 1941 Hone was shot down by Bf 109s and crashed at Tenterden, suffering concussion and bleeding eyes. He was posted to 56 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 9, as an instructor. He made a wheels-up landing on August 14, near the mouth of the River Nene, with a goose in the radiator, causing engine failure. After a short spell at 61 OTU, Rednal in April/May 1942, Hone joined 41 Squadron at Merston. Operating over Dieppe on August 19, he damaged a FW 190. Hone went to 501 Squadron at Hawkinge on September 1 1943 and left on January 3 1944, to become a Controller. He was released from the RAF in April 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant and returned to the Bank. He joined the RAFVR, as a Controller, and then rejoined the RAF in July 1950 and was granted a Permanent Commission in the Control Branch. Hone retired on September 30 1975, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on October 24 2003.

PO 12.7.41 FO 22.3.42 FL 22.3.43

Sgt

Pilot

Born on September 30 1917, Hone, from Purley, was a bank clerk. He joined the RAFVR in September 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742620) and carried out his elementary training at 19 E&RFTS, Gatwick.

The squadron was withdrawn to Andover in May 1940 and was disbanded there on June 15. Holroyd joined No 37 Course at 3 FTS, South Cerney, which began on July 11 1940, but he was transferred to No 35 Course, for advanced training only. He arrived at 6 OTU on August 31 1940 and after converting to Hurricanes, Holroyd was posted to 151 Squadron at Digby on September 21. He moved to 501 Squadron at Kenley on October 19 1940. He ferried one of three Spitfires from Exeter to 501’s base at Colerne on April 24 1941, the start of the squadron’s re-equipment. Holroyd also had the squadron’s first Spitfire accident, when he made a belly-landing in R 7141 on May 15, with undercarriage trouble. On July 24 he damaged a Bf 109 over Brest. Commissioned in July 1941, Holroyd was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1996.

755479

PO

141 Squadron

Holton joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 141 Squadron at Turnhouse from 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 19 1940. He was posted away from the squadron on December 15 1940, to the recently-reformed 255 Squadron at Kirton-inLindsey. At some stage Holton retrained as a Navigator Radar. He went with 89 Squadron to the Middle East in late November 1942 and served in Malta with a squadron detachment in June 1942. In January 1943 Holton went with a detachment to Calcutta, which formed the nucleus of 176 Squadron, also equipped with Beaufighters. Holton was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Warrant Officer. He died on April 4 1994.

PO 9.6.40 FO 9.6.41 FL 9.6.42 FO (RAFVR) 23.8.46 FL 7.6.51

MICHAEL GILES HOMER 33409

PO

Pilot

British

DUDLEY SANDRY GARTON HONOR

1 and 242 Squadrons

40113 Homer, of Swanage, Dorset, was at Wellington College from 1933 to 1936. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1937, as a Flight Cadet. On graduation he was granted a Permanent Commission on December 17 1938 and joined 106 Squadron at Thornaby Homer was with 44 Squadron by February 10 1940, operating in Hampdens from Waddington.

FO

Pilot

British

145 Squadron

Honor was born on September 5 1913 in Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina and educated there. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley on July 12 1937. On September 18 Honor was posted to 6 FTS, Netheravon and after completing his flying training, he joined 88 Squadron at Boscombe Down on March 7 1938. Equipped with Battle light bombers, the squadron went to France at the outbreak of war, as part of the AASF, and suffered heavy losses in the German blitzkrieg.

On April 12 he was captain of an aircraft that carried out a high-level bombing attack on two cruisers in Kristiansand Bay. He pressed home his attack in the face of intense antiaircraft fire and attacks by enemy fighters, one of which his air gunner shot down. He then

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Honor was later awarded the DFC (5.11.40), for front-line reconnaissances and dive-bombing attacks on bridges over the River Meuse. After 88 was withdrawn to Driffield on June 14 1940, he volunteered for Fighter Command and was posted away on August 18. Battle pilots did not go to OTU. He joined 145 Squadron at Drem on the 19th and converted to Hurricanes on the squadron, making his first flight on the 21st. Honor shared in the destruction of an Arado Ar 196 floatplane on October 12. He made a forced-landing at Hollington, near St Leonards, on the 27th, after running out of fuel, following a combat with Bf 109s. The Hurricane, V 7422, was written off. On December 2 Honor was posted to 85 Squadron at Debden and went on nightfighting duties. On January 29 1941 he was posted to the Middle East, destined for 274 Squadron, as a Flight Commander. He embarked on the carrier HMS Furious, flew off at Takoradi in a Hurricane, and made his way in stages up Africa to Egypt, where he joined 274 Squadron at Amriya on April 6 1941. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on May 1, a Bf 109 destroyed and another three damaged on the 15th and on the 20th he destroyed a Bf 110, which had just taken off from Mechili, as well as a Ju 52 on the ground. On a patrol over Crete on May 25, Honor destroyed a Ju 52 and a SM 79. He was then shot down by a Bf 109 and swam to the Cretan coast. After hiding for several days, he was picked up by a Sunderland and returned to the squadron on June 5. He damaged a Bf 109 on the 17th. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (10.6.41). Honor took command of 274 in August and led it until November 12 1941, when he was promoted to Acting Wing Commander, to lead 258 Wing. On December 6 he destroyed a Mc 202 eight miles from Tobruk. In December 1942 Honor was commanding 17 Sector, Benghazi. He later served in Malta, Sicily and Italy and returned to the UK in 1944, where he was appointed Wing Commander Training at HQ 14 Group. Later in the year he was posted as Air Attaché to Colombia, Venezuela and Ecuador. Honor was released from the RAF in 1947 as a Group Captain. In 1951 he became Director for Latin America for the Bristol Aeroplane Company. In 1960 he was made Director for Canadair in the region and later became Manager of Air Canada, South America. After retiring, Honor and his wife went to Canada and were given Canadian citizenship. They later moved to Spain and in 1990 they went to England and settled in Devon. Honor died on December 26 2007.

ARCHIE HOOK

APO 5.9.37 PO 12.7.38 FO 12.1.40 FL 12.1.41 SL 1.3.41 WC 24.9.45

Hooper was born on August 16 1918 and educated at Lady Hawkins’ Grammar School at Kington, Herefordshire.

647887

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

248 Squadron

Hook, of Beeston, Nottinghamshire, joined the RAF in June 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered to Airman u/t Wop/AG and after completing his training, he joined 248 Squadron at Sumburgh on September 10 1940. Detailed to fly to Wick for operations on December 13 1940, Hook was a member of a Blenheim crew, with Pilot Officer J D Dodd, pilot and Pilot Officer A H Pettet, observer. Their aircraft collided with another Blenheim as they were formating. Both aircraft crashed into the sea. Hook, Dodd and Pettet were reported ‘Missing’ and the five men in the other Blenheim were also lost. Hook was 18. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 15.

DOUGLAS NEWCOMBE HOOKWAY 82691

PO

Pilot

British

234 Squadron

Born in 1920, Hookway joined the RAFVR in February 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742838) and did his elementary flying training at 5 E&RFTS, Hanworth. Called up at the outbreak of war, he was posted to 7 EFTS, Desford in November, to complete it. Hookway moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 19 Course, which ran from April 11 to July 24 1940. On completion of the course, he went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum. The shortage of fighter pilots led to Hookway being posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 22. After converting to Spitfires, he was posted to 234 Squadron at St Eval on September 7 1940 and flew his first operational sortie on the 19th. On March 22 1941 he went to CFS, Upavon, for an instructors’ course, and was posted in May to 9 FTS, Hullavington. In June Hookway moved to 53 OTU at Heston and in October he went to 28 EFTS at Pendeford. Apart from six months instructing at 7 EFTS, Desford from July 1942 to January 1943, Hookway remained at Pendeford until he was released from the RAF in January 1946, as a Squadron Leader. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.46) and was CFI during his final year at 28 EFTS. PO 27.7.40 FO 27.7.41 FL 27.7.42

BERESFORD GWYNNE HOOPER 40707

FO

Pilot

British

25 Squadron

.

HILARY RICHARD LIONEL HOOD 26110

SL

Pilot

British

He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 7 1938. On May 7 Hooper went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, for a short disciplinary course, and on the 19th moved on to 11 FTS, Shawbury. With training completed, Hooper joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge in December 1938. At the outbreak of war the squadron moved to Northolt and in January 1940 to North Weald. During the Battle of Britain period, Hooper claimed a He 111 damaged at night and a Do 17 damaged in a daylight sortie. In the evening of September 15 1940 Hooper was flying Beaufighter R 2067, with Flying Officer M J Miley as passenger. He collided with a Blenheim of 25 Squadron, flown by Flying Officer H M S Lambert, with LAC J P Wyatt as his observer. Both aircraft crashed near Biggin Hill and Hooper was the only survivor. In 1942 Hooper was seriously injured when his Lysander crashed following engine failure. After several months in hospital, he returned to duty and was transferred to the Fighter Control Branch in late 1942. After serving in the Middle East and Far East, Hooper was released from the RAF in 1946. He rejoined in 1947, on an Extended Service Commission. He retired in 1952 as a Flight Lieutenant.

41 Squadron Hood was born in London and was at Tonbridge School from 1923 to 1927. He entered the RAF College, Cranwell in September 1927, as a Flight Cadet.

He graduated in July 1929, with a Permanent Commission, and joined 23 Squadron at Kenley. On October 9 1931 Hood was posted to 403 (Fleet Fighter) Flight, on HMS Hermes in the Far East. Back in the UK, he went to CFS, Wittering for an instructor’s course on August 22 1933 and afterwards joined the staff at RAF Leuchars, to train FAA pilots. Hood was posted to the staff at 11 FTS, Wittering on October 1 1935, rejoined 23 Squadron at Biggin Hill on October 26 1936, went to the staff at 5 FTS, Sealand on March 15 1937 and was given command of the Station Flight at Northolt on June 27 1938. In January 1940 he was CO of the Intermediate Training Squadron at 10 FTS, Ternhill. By February 14 he was at HQ Air Component France, as Armament Officer. Hood joined 41 Squadron at Catterick on April 20 1940, as a supernumerary, and took command of the squadron on the 22nd. On June 1 1940, during the Dunkirk evacuation, he came upon a Do 17 at sea level but had no ammunition and very little fuel. He made a feint attack and the enemy aircraft dived into the sea. On July 29 Hood claimed a Bf 109 and a Ju 87 destroyed and on September 5 he damaged a Do 17. He was killed on September 5 1940, when he collided with Flying Officer J T Webster, during an attack on Do 17s over the Thames Estuary. Hood’s Spitfire, P 9428, is believed to have disintegrated over Wickford. He was 32 years old and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 4. He was awarded the DFC (27.5.41 with effect from 11.8.40). A memorial plaque to him was unveiled at Tonbridge School on November 26 2003.

APO 7.5.38 P0 17.12.38 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 FL 1.9.45

Sir ARCHIBALD PHILIP HOPE Bt 90127

FL

Pilot

British

601 Squadron

Born on March 27 1912, Hope succeeded his father as the 17th Baronet of Craighall in 1924. He was educated at Eton and Balliol College, Oxford, where he read Modern History. He learned to fly with the University Air Squadron. Hope was commissioned in Class ‘AA’ of the RAFO on July 13 1931 and confirmed in rank a year later. He relinquished his RAFO commission on being granted one in the AAF on January 25 1935, in 601 Squadron at Hendon. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939. He flew in the first fighter attack on a German base of the war, on the Luftwaffe seaplane base at Borkum on November 28 1939. Twelve Blenheims took off from Bircham Newton, six from 25 Squadron and six from

PO 27.7.29 FO 27.1.31 FL 27.1.35 SL 1.8.38

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Spitfire from Ternhill. He claimed a Ju 88 destroyed on August 15, a Bf 109 on the 30th, a Do 17 on September 1 and a Bf 110 on the 2nd. Hopewell was posted to 66 Squadron at Gravesend on October 14 1940, moving ten days later to 73 Squadron at Castle Camps. He then went to 151 Squadron at Digby on November 7, remaining with it until May 1941. At some time with 151 Hopewell crashed in a Defiant, out of fuel. His gunner, Sergeant Wallace, RNZAF, was killed. Hopewell was briefly at 54 OTU, Church Fenton, before joining 219 Squadron at Tangmere in June 1941. Two months later he was posted to 264 Squadron at West Malling and in September he went to 1452 Flight, a Turbinlite Havoc/Hurricane night-fighting unit. He was awarded the DFM (24.6.41). He was killed on January 21 1942, as a Warrant Officer, aged 27, still with 1452 Flight. Hopewell is buried in Bingley Cemetery. A memorial plaque to him was presented to Priesthorpe School on December 15 2000.

601 Squadron. All aircraft returned safely to Debden. Three He 115s were destroyed and three more were damaged. Hope was detached to ‘H’ Flight, Photographic Development Unit at Heston on March 1 1940 for ten days, for flying instruction duties. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on May 16 and led his flight to Merville in France on that day. On the 18th, after sharing in the destruction of a Do 17, he was shot down by return fire and made a crash-landing in a field near Grevillers. On the 20th his aircraft was again damaged and he made another forced landing, this time at Merville. On the 27th, flying from Tangmere again, Hope was leading 601, when he was attacked by Bf 110s and shot down some five miles out from the coast between Calais and Dunkirk. He headed for land and flew as far east as possible, away from the advancing Germans. Hope crash-landed on a beach, set fire to his Hurricane and was then taken by a French farmer to Bergues, where there was a British Brigade HQ. He was taken by lorry to the Dunkirk docks, spent a night on the dunes and went aboard the destroyer HMS Wakeful the next day. After landing at Dover, Hope phoned 601 and a Magister picked him up at Hawkinge. He was still carrying his parachute. On July 11 1940 he claimed two probable Ju 87s, on August 13 two probable Bf 110s, damaged another, shared a probable Ju 88 and damaged another, on the 15th shared in the destruction of two Ju 88s and on the 16th destroyed a Bf 110, got a probable Ju 87 and damaged another. He was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader on August 19 and took command of the squadron. Awarded the DFC (1.10.40), Hope was posted away to RAF Middle Wallop on December 24 1940. He moved to RAF Catterick on January 8 1941. In August 1943 Hope took command of 57 OTU, Eshott, as a Wing Commander. In February 1944 he was appointed Station Commander at RAF Exeter, as a Group Captain. In May 1945 he was commanding RAF Peterhead as a Group Captain. He was released later in the year and also in that year was made OBE. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in November 1940. He had a significant business career as a chartered accountant and was auditor of the Battle of Britain Fighter Association. Hope died in June 1987. PO (RAFO) 13.7.32 FO (RAFO) 13.1.33 FL 12.3.40 SL 1.6.41 WC 1.6.42

PO (AAF) 25.1.35

CHARLES LEONARD HOPGOOD 745559

FO

Pilot

British

Pilot

British

64 Squadron

Hopgood, of Reading, Berkshire, joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 16 1940. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield on September 29 and flew his first operational sortie on October 2. He was killed on December 5 1940, aged 22. Hopgood is buried in Boulogne Eastern Cemetery, France.

WILLIAM PELHAM HOPKIN 42606

PO

Pilot

British

54 and 602 Squadrons

Born on March 15 1921, Hopkin joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 10 1939.

FO (AAF) 25.7.36

He moved on to 3 FTS, South Cerney for No 29 Course, which ran from September 25 1939 to March 23 1940. He joined 54 Squadron at Rochford direct from 3 FTS on April 13 1940. Hopkin was attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on April 27. After converting to Hurricanes, he went to PDC, Uxbridge on May 15 for allocation to a squadron in France. This did not occur and he rejoined 54 Squadron on May 25. On June 1 1940 Hopkin reported to HQ 11 Group for temporary duty and then again rejoined 54 on June 13. On August 15 he damaged a Ju 87, on the 18th he claimed a Do 17 destroyed, shared a Bf 110 and damaged another and on the 22nd he destroyed another Bf 110. Hopkin was posted to 602 Squadron at Westhampnett on September 12. On the 26th he claimed a He 111 destroyed, on the 27th a Bf 110 destroyed, on October 27 a Ju 88 and a Bf 109 damaged and on November 6 he shared in the probable destruction of two Bf 109s. Landing at Westhampnett on November 23, Hopkin misjudged his height and landed on top of his CO’s parked Spitfire, writing off both aircraft. Hopkin was made a Flight Commander in early 1941. On May 24 he and Sergeant Brown collided on take-off. Brown was killed and Hopkin managed to land safely back at base. At the end of his tour, Hopkin was awarded the DFC (9.9.41). He did not return to operations. After the war he stayed on in the RAF Secretarial Branch, and retired on August 1 1967 as a Wing Commander. In the 1960s Pelham Hopkin was the Honorary Secretary of the Battle of Britain Fighter Association.

RALPH HOPE 90257

Sgt

605 Squadron

Born in Birmingham on July 18 1914, Hope was related, on his mother’s side, to Joseph, Austen and Neville Chamberlain. He was educated at Eton and New College, Oxford. He won his rowing blue in 1935. He was at bow in the University Boat Race. In 1936 Hope joined the family firm, which manufactured metal windows. He went to the firm’s subsidiary in Jamestown, New York in September 1937. Hope started flying there and returned to the UK in 1938, with his pilot’s license. Hope joined 605 Squadron, AAF at Castle Bromwich soon after his return. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939 and on September 11 he was detached to 11 Group Pool, St Athan, for further training and conversion to Hurricanes. On May 9 1940 Hope shared in destroying a Do 17 off Dunnet Head. He was shot down on September 28 by Bf 109s over Ticehurst and baled out. His Hurricane, P 3828, crashed at Bewl Bridge, Lamberhurst. He was sent on a week’s sick leave and flew again on October 11. On October 14 Hope flew into the Inner Artillery Zone during a patrol. He crashed and was killed, either by striking a balloon cable or shot down by anti-aircraft fire. His Hurricane, P 3107, crashed in Tennison Road, South Norwood. Hope was cremated at St John’s Crematorium, Woking

APO 10.7.39 PO 6.4.40 FO 6.4.41 FL 6.4.42 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.1.52 WC 1.1.61

PO (AAF) 12.6.38 PO 24.8.39 FO 10.12.39

BERNARD WALTER HOPTON 745034

Sgt

Pilot

British

600, 615, 73 and 66 Squadrons

JAMES HOPEWELL 516702

F/Sgt

Pilot

British

616, 66 and 73 Squadrons

Hopton, of New Malden, Surrey, joined the RAFVR about February 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his elementary flying training at 7 EFTS, Desford.

Hopewell, of Bingley, Yorkshire, went to Priesthorpe School there and joined the RAF in November 1933, as an Aircrafthand. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot on May 1 1939.

He moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 19 Course, which ran from April 11 to July 24 1940. Hopton arrived at 5 OTU on August 3 and, presumably, he converted to Hurricanes. After joining 600 Squadron at Manston on the 19th, he made his first flight, probably in a Blenheim, on August 24 and on the 27th he joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick, to fly Hurricanes. Hopton went to 73 Squadron at Castle Camps on September 15 and then moved on to

He did his elementary training at 15 E&RFTS, Red Hill and moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 12 Course, which ran from July 10 to December 9 1939. Hopewell possibly joined 616 Squadron at Leconfield direct from 10 FTS. The first mention of him in the squadron ORB is not until March 16 1940, when he collected a

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66 Squadron at West Malling on October 24. On November 14 1940 Hopton probably destroyed a Bf 109 near Dover. Hopton was killed on August 6 1941, as a Sergeant with 616 Squadron. He was 21 and is buried in Ladywell Cemetery, Lewisham, London.

787554

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

Horsky was born on February 11 1914 at Bruchotin. He was a pilot in the Czech Air Force when the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939. He was demobilised on the 17th and later escaped to Poland and then to France.

WILLIAM HENRY HORNBY 60513

Sgt

Pilot

British

234 Squadron He was required to join the French Foreign Legion with the assurance that he would transfer to a French military unit if war was declared. He was still at the Legion barracks near Paris when war was declared and was transferred to l’Armée de l’Air. He was assigned to CIC Chartres to retrain to French equipment which he completed on March 8 1940. He was posted to GC I/6, at Chissey, to fly MS-406c aircraft. When the Germans invaded France the rapidity of the Blitzkrieg caused GC I/6 to change location frequently as it retreated to the west and in late June it was at Bergerac in south-west France. After the French collapse, Horsky was released from service with l’Armee de l’Air and he was evacuated from Port Vendres, on the General Chanzy, to Oran, Algeria. With other evacuated Czech airmen he travelled by train to Casablanca and then, on June 29, boarded the Gib-el-Dersa which took them to Gibraltar. Here he transferred ships and travelled on to England. Horsky enlisted in the RAFVR and joined 310 Squadron at Duxford probably on August 6 1940. He was posted to 5 OTU, at Sutton Bridge, for re-training on Hurricanes and on September 10 was posted to 238 Squadron, at Chilbolton. On September 25, 238 Squadron attacked a formation of He111s and Me110 escorts. Horsky shot down a He 111 which crashed at Racecourse Farm, Portbury, Somerset. The following day, when flying Hurricane P 3098, he was shot down in combat with Bf 110s over the Solent in the afternoon. His aircraft is presumed to have crashed into the sea and his body was never recovered. Horsky is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 15.

Born in 1912, Hornby was a junior civil servant before the war. He joined 600 Squadron, AAF in 1936, (800457). He transferred to the RAFVR as an Airman u/t Pilot (740105), in April 1937. He did his weekend flying at 5 E&RFTS, Hanworth and later at 21 E&RFTS, Stapleford. Called up on September 1 1939, he was sent to 10 FTS, Ternhill, for assessment of his flying capabilities, after which he went on to No 13 Course there, from September 9 to November 6 1939, for advanced training only. Hornby joined the newly- reformed 234 Squadron at Leconfield on November 6 and was still with the squadron at the start of the Battle of Britain. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on August 26 1940 and a Bf 110 destroyed and three others damaged on September 4. Two days later he was shot down and baled out, with facial injuries. His Spitfire, X 4183, exploded over Quickbourne Lane, Northam. After four days at the Casualty Clearing Station at Benenden, Hornby was taken to Hollymoor Hospital, Birmingham. He later rejoined 234 Squadron at St Eval but did not fly operationally again until November 1 1940. Commissioned in January 1941, Hornby was posted to 124 Squadron at Castletown on April 23 but moved to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on August 5, as an instructor. On September 16 he was transferred to 61 OTU, Heston, remaining with it until April 22 1942, when he was sent on a course to 2 FIS, Montrose. Hornby instructed at 7(P) AFU at Peterborough from June 13 1942 until September 12 1944. The unit then moved to Sutton Bridge, was renamed 7 SFTS and there Hornby instructed pilots of the Free French Air Force until his release in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 2000.

PATRICK WILMOT HORTON 42128

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

PO 22.1.41 FO 22.1.42 FL 22.1.43

Sgt

Pilot

British

610 Squadron

Horner joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754738). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 610 Squadron at Acklington on September 16 1940. On February 26 1941 he got a probable Bf 109 and probably another on March 13. Commissioned on June 12 1941, Horner destroyed Bf 109s on June 22 and 25. He was posted ‘Missing’ on a sortie over France on July 8 1941, still with 610 Squadron. He was later reported to be a PoW and at some time was held in Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan and Belaria (PoW No 3761). Horner was released from the RAF in 1947 as a Flight Lieutenant.

Horton began his ab initio course at 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury on March 16, as a pupil pilot. He moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand on May 26. With training completed, he joined the newly-reformed 234 Squadron at Leconfield on November 6 1939, then equipped with a variety of aircraft types, including Battles, Gauntlets and then Blenheims. The squadron began to receive Spitfires in March 1940. On July 28 Horton shared in the destruction of a Ju 88, on August 16 he destroyed a Bf 109, and on the 26th he claimed another Bf 109 destroyed but crash-landed himself at Middle Wallop, after being damaged in combat. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and another damaged on September 4 and was slightly injured in action on the 6th. In October Horton volunteered for service in the Middle East. On the 23rd he embarked in the carrier HMS Argus at Glasgow, for service in Malta. In mid-November Argus sailed from Gibraltar with Hurricanes for Malta. Horton was one of the six pilots, who flew off on November 16 in the second flight of Hurricanes, led by a FAA Skua. A series of mishaps saw the Hurricanes run out of fuel and fall, one by one, into the sea, with the loss of all six pilots. Horton is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 6. He received a Mention in Despatches (17.3.41).

PO 12.6.41 FO 12.6.42 FL 12.6.43

JAMES MICHAEL HORROX 85268

PO

Pilot

British

234 Squadron

Horton was born in Dunedin on March 25 1920, the son of Mervyn Wilmot and Marjory Livingston Horton. He went to school in New York and was later at the Hutchins School, Hobart, Tasmania from March 1932 to December 1933 and then Wellington College, New Zealand. In 1936 he went to work for the Department of Mines in Wellington. He enlisted in the New Zealand Territorial Force to serve as a gunner at Fort Dorset on September 21 1937. Having been provisionally accepted for an RAF short service commission, Horton sailed for the UK on February 3 1939 in the RMS Tainui.

FRANK GEORGE HORNER 100034

238 Squadron

151 Squadron

Horrox, of Keyingham, Yorkshire, joined the RAFVR in July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754723). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 15 FTS, Brize Norton on No 10 Course, which ran from June 15 to September 21 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 22 and was commissioned on the same day. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 151 Squadron at Digby on October 6 but was posted away to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on the 19th, for a posting overseas. Horrox embarked on the carrier HMS Argus at Glasgow on October 23, for service in Malta. In mid-November 1940 the carrier sailed from Gibraltar, with Hurricanes. Horrox was one of the six pilots who flew off on November 16 1940 in the second flight of Hurricanes, led by a FAA Skua. A series of mishaps saw the Hurricanes run out of fuel and fall, one by one, into the sea, with the loss of all six pilots. Horrox was 20. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 8.

APO 12.5.39 PO 6.11.39

FO 6.11.40

HAROLD BASIL LINCOLN HOUGH 79548

PO

Pilot

British

600 Squadron

Hough, of Finchley, Middlesex, joined the RAFVR about April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745660). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 9 FTS, Hullavington on No 16 Course, which ran from December 31 1939 to June 9 1940.

PO 22.9.40

He was commissioned on the 2nd and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 10. After

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PETER IAN HOWARD-WILLIAMS

converting to Blenheims, Hough was posted to 600 Squadron at Northolt on June 26. He was detached from the squadron to No 2 School of Army Co-operation at Andover on July 11, for night-flying training. He rejoined 600 on the 16th. During a night patrol on September 8, Hough became lost, following R/T failure. When his fuel was exhausted, Hough and the two members of his crew baled out at 6,000 feet, over Basingstoke. The Blenheim, L 1111, crashed near Odiham. Posted away from the squadron in early 1941, Hough was killed on August 16 1941, as a Flying Officer instructor, aged 23. He was cremated at the Lawns Wood Crematorium, Leeds.

33569

Pilot

British

141 Squadron

Born in Bedford on October 22 1916, Houghton was educated at Bedford School and worked at St Pancras Station, as a trainee clerk with LMS Hotel Services. He joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot, (754030) and was called up at the outbreak of war. He completed his training at 6 FTS, Little Rissington on August 2 1940 and was commissioned. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down, converted to Defiants and joined 141 Squadron at Dyce on August 19. Houghton was detached to the School of Air Navigation, St Athan on the 24th for No 8 Short Navigation Pilots’ Course, which ran from August 26 to October 4 1940. In October 1942 Houghton was posted from 141 and went to RAF North Weald, as a Controller. He returned to operations on March 15 1943, joining 29 Squadron at West Malling. He went to 85 Squadron, also at West Malling, on August 23 1943. In the late evening of September 6, flying with Flying Officer A G Patston as his Navigator Radar, Houghton shot down a FW 190, which crashed at Bury St Edmunds. Houghton stayed with 85 Squadron until 1945, when he was seconded to BOAC. When BEA was formed, Houghton transferred. He retired in February 1962 as a Senior Captain. He went into partnership with Jimmy Chipperfield, to build and manage Plymouth Zoo. Houghton and his family did this until May 1968, when they went across to Tilburg in Holland to build and run a Lion Park. Houghton returned to England in October 1968 because of ill-health and he died on May 22 1969. PO 3.8.40 FO 3.8.41 FL 3.8.42

OLIVER VINCENT HOUGHTON 745437

Sgt

Pilot

British

PO 7.3.40 FO 7.3.41 FL 7.3.42 SL 1.6.45 SL 1.10.46

ERIC FRANCIS HOWARTH 741519

British

Pilot

British

501 Squadron

He was posted from the Pool to France on May 29 and joined 501 Squadron at Le Mans soon afterwards. The squadron was withdrawn to Jersey on June 17 1940 and re-assembled at Croydon on the 21st, moving to Middle Wallop on July 4. Howarth damaged a Ju 87 on July 29. On August 7 he collided with Sergeant W A Wilkinson, during a landing approach at Gravesend in poor visibility. Both men were unhurt. They made no further flights with 501 and both were posted away to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth on August 12, where they converted to Ansons. Howarth and Wilkinson joined 48 Squadron at Hooton Park on September 5, a coastal patrol unit. Howarth flew his first operational sortie on the 8th. Howarth was killed on September 5 1941, as a Flight Sergeant with 48 Squadron. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 36.

JOHN HOWARD Pilot

Sgt

Howarth joined the RAFVR about May 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on September 1 1939, completed his training and joined 4 Ferry Pilot Pool from 10 B&GS on May 16 1940.

He joined the RAFVR on March 22 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he was posted to 4 ITW at Bexhill on October 30 and went to 5 FTS, Sealand on December 9, where he completed his flying training. After converting to Hurricanes, Houghton joined 615 Squadron at Kenley on June 18 1940. He was detached to RAF Uxbridge on the 21st for a short course on R/T procedure. He moved to 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on July 10 and then, finally, he went to 501 Squadron at Kenley on August 27. Houghton was shot down and killed in combat over Ashford on September 6 1940. His Hurricane, V 6646, crashed into Long Beech Wood, Charing, Kent. Houghton was 19. He is buried in All Saints’ churchyard extension at Allesley, near Coventry.

PO

19 Squadron

32 and 501 Squadrons

Houghton was born on January 19 1921 at Foleshill, Coventry and worked as an Aero Fitter. He joined the Civil Air Guard in October 1938 and flew at Whitley aerodrome, Coventry.

86628

British

After the outbreak of war, Cranwell cadets, who had not completed their courses, were enlisted in the regular RAF on September 7 1939, as Airmen u/t Pilots and each given an Airman number. Howard-Williams (581717) graduated on March 7 1940 with a Permanent Commission. He joined 19 Squadron at Duxford on March 17 and served with it throughout the Battle of Britain. He was with 610 Squadron in early 1941 and in February he joined 118 Squadron, then reforming at Filton. The squadron moved to Pembrey in March and became operational on the 28th, flying convoy patrols. It moved to Ibsley on April 18 1941. On August 6 Howard-Williams destroyed a Bf 109, on October 12 he destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another and on the 15th he shared a Bf 109. Awarded the DFC (4.11.41), Howard-Williams appeared briefly, as himself, in the film First of the Few, filmed at Ibsley in late 1941. He was made a Flight Commander in early 1942 and on February 2 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and two others damaged. He was posted away in March 1942, going first to 276 Squadron at Fairwood Common, on air-sea rescue duties. In May 1942 he joined 2 Delivery Flight at Colerne, staying with it until February 1943, when he rejoined 610 Squadron at Westhampnett. On March 11 he shot down a FW 190 over the Channel. From April 1943 Howard-Williams was attached to 2 Squadron initially at Fowlmere, a fighter-reconnaissance unit. He rejoined 610 Squadron in June 1943, at Perranporth. In November 1943 he was posted to 11 APC, moved to 11 FIS in March 1944, went to 57 OTU, Eshott in April, as an instructor, and then to 27 OTU, Lichfield, where he remained until March 1945, when he was posted to HQ 91 Group, Abingdon. Howard-Williams retired from the RAF on June 11 1958, as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. After retirement, he bought the Pandora Inn at Restronguet, Falmouth. He had a toyshop in Falmouth before retiring to Spain in 1979. He returned to England in 1991 after becoming ill. He died in March 1993.

CYRIL GEORGE HOUGHTON PO

Pilot

Howard-Williams was born in Cowes, Isle of Wight on December 27 1919 and educated at Felsted School. He entered RAF College, Cranwell on April 27 1939, as a Flight Cadet.

PO 2.6.40

84912

PO

54 and 74 Squadrons

BERNARD HOWE Howard joined the RAFVR about April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745855). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and was commissioned in late August 1940.

33427

PO

Pilot

British

25 Squadron

Howe, of Wadebridge, Cornwall, was educated at Thame School. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1937, as a Flight Cadet. He graduated on July 29 1939 and was granted a Permanent Commission.

He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 31. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on September 18. He moved to 74 Squadron at Biggin Hill on October 24. Howard damaged a Bf 109 on April 7 1941. He did not return from an escort operation for Blenheims of 101 Squadron to France on May 6. He was 22 and is buried in the Marquise Communal Cemetery.

He joined 25 Squadron at North Weald in August 1939. On June 6 1940 Howe was admitted to St Margaret’s Hospital, Epping, reason not known. He rejoined 25 in early July but did not make another flight until September 18 1940. Howe was posted away from 25 on January 1 1941, to join 263 Squadron at Exeter. He was killed on April 20 1941, as a Flying Officer and still with 263 Squadron. He was 22. He is buried in All Saints’ churchyard, Wittering, Northamptonshire.

PO 31.8.40

PO 29.7.39 FO 29.1.41

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DONALD CHARLES HOWE 78253

PO

Observer

British

Howell was posted to 80 Squadron at Ismailia, Egypt on March 29 1938 and joined it on April 30. He was sent to 4 FTS, Abu Sueir on temporary duty on June 3 1938 and rejoined 80 on September 23. He returned to the UK in July 1939, was admitted to Uxbridge Hospital on the 21st. He was discharged on August 28 and after sick leave, He returned to No 1 Depot on September 25. After a spell on temporary administrative duties, he was posted to 609 Squadron at Drem on November 14 1939. Near Dunkirk on May 31 1940, Howell shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 and on June 1 he damaged a He 111. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander next day and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on June 21 (wef June 2). On July 12 he shared in the probable destruction of a He 111 and on the 18th shared a probable Ju 88. In this engagement, off Swanage, Howell was shot down by return fire. He baled out and was rescued by the Navy. On August 13 he destroyed a Ju 87, on the 15th a Ju 88, on the 25th a Bf 110 and damaged another, on September 7 he got a probable Bf 110 and a probable Ju 88, on the 15th destroyed a Do 17 and damaged another and on October 7 he shot down a Bf 110. On October 21 Howell shared a Ju 88 with Pilot Officer S J Hill of 609, the squadron’s 100th victory. He was awarded the DFC (25.10.40). On February 21 1941 he went to Filton to form and command 118 Squadron, which became operational at Pembrey on March 28. Howell claimed the squadron’s first victory, shooting down a He 111 in the early hours of July 8 over Southampton. On October 15 he shared in the destruction of a Bf 109 near Le Havre. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (4.11.41). On October 23 Howell relinquished command of 118 Squadron and became supernumerary pending an overseas posting. He was given command of 243 Squadron, then at Kallang in the Far East. He sailed in the battleship HMS Prince of Wales and arrived in Singapore on December 2 1941. Howell took command of 243 Squadron. Its Buffalos were no match for the Japanese fighters. He shot down an Army 97 on January 16 1942. When Singapore fell on February 15, 243 had been almost wiped out. On February 12 Howell was reported ‘Missing, believed PoW’ and he had been captured by the Japanese, trying to reach Sumatra. After years of gruelling imprisonment, he was released after the Japanese surrender in August 1945 and returned to the UK, where his fitness was assessed. Howell went on a pilot refresher course on January 23 1946, followed by a course at 17 FTS from April 9. A posting to HQ Fighter Command came on June 17 1946 and he remained there on administrative duties until July 1 1947, when he was posted to RAF Staff College, Bracknell for a course, as an Acting Wing Commander. He returned to HQ Fighter Command on December 21, went to 54 Squadron at Odiham on January 2 1948, as a supernumerary and then took command on the 12th, as an Acting Wing Commander. On May 9 1948 Howell was making a ciné film of Vampires of the squadron, taking off and landing at Odiham. He was struck on the forehead by the wing tip of an aircraft coming in to land, suffering a severe injury and he died of a cerebral haemorrhage.

235 Squadron

Howe joined the RAFVR about April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745895). He later remustered as an Airman u/t Observer. Called up on September 1, Howe completed his training at 5 B&GS, Jurby, was commissioned and joined 235 Squadron at North Coates on April 1 1940, serving with it until March 1941. No further service details traced. Howe was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 24.3.40 FO 24.3.41 FL 24.3.42

FRANCIS VINCENT HOWELL 47751

Sgt

Pilot

British

87 Squadron

Born at Herne Hill, London on May 29 1915, Howell was educated at St Paul’s School, Dorking and Redhill Technical College. He joined the RAF on September 1 1931, as an Aircraft Apprentice (565595), at Halton. After three weeks he was sent to the Electrical and Wireless School at Cranwell. Howell passed out in September 1934, as a Wireless Mechanic and was posted to 65 Squadron at Hornchurch, as an AC1. He became a Wop/AG on Demons, making his first flight as an air gunner on October 5 1934. He did a gunnery course at Leuchars in May 1935 and returned to the squadron on May 28, with his winged bullet on his sleeve. In early September 1935 the squadron went by sea to Malta because Italy was on a war footing with Ethiopia. It returned to Hornchurch a year later. Howell had applied for pilot training and in May 1937 he began flying training at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble. In July he went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton and with training completed, he joined 3 Squadron at Kenley in May 1938, to fly Gladiators. On September 10 1939 Howell was coming in to land at Croydon, when he had to make a forced-landing in a field due to poor visibility. It was too small to take off again. On October 3 1939 he was posted to France and joined 87 Squadron at Merville on October 10. On December 9 he made a forced-landing, in a Hurricane, in Belgium, in bad visibility and approaching darkness. He just got back over the French frontier before the police arrived. On May 10 1940 Howell probably destroyed two He 111s. On the 13th he was jumped by Bf 109s and his aircraft was badly damaged. He baled out and landed in Belgium, was taken to Brussels General Hospital and then transferred to Ghent. He rejoined the squadron at Lille on the 18th. Unfit for flying, he spent the last days of May trying to get out of France. He finally commandeered a big van from a local garage, filled it with airmen and drove to Boulogne, from where they all managed to board a ship for Dover next day. The squadron reformed at Church Fenton and began day and night patrols in early June. On August 25 Howell was credited with a Bf 110 probably destroyed. In February 1941 Howell was posted to No 2 Aircraft Delivery Flight and in May he was sent to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course, after which he went to 9 FTS, Hullavington. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in January 1942, Howell was posted to to 9(P) AFU at Errol, near Dundee. He remained there until December 1944, when he volunteered for a Long Officers’ Signal Course at Cranwell. He passed out in late 1946 and went to 110 Wing at Croydon, then preparing for civil airlines. In January 1947 Howell moved to RAF Abingdon in Transport Command. In May he was offered a civilian post as an Experimental Officer at the Atomic Energy Research Establishment at Harwell, which he accepted. In late 1950 he became a Senior Experimental Officer and an established civil servant. Howell died on March 5 1984.

APO 5.3.37 SL 15.11.46

740896

Pilot

British

FL 3.9.40

SL 1.12.41

SL (RAFO) 1.3.43

Sgt

Pilot

British

85 and 605 Squadrons

Howes, of Gillingham, Kent, joined the RAFVR about December 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot, and was called up on September 1 1939. He completed his training and joined 213 Squadron and was later posted to France, where he joined 85 Squadron in mid-May 1940. On the 20th he destroyed four Do 17s and damaged a fifth. 85 was withdrawn to Debden on May 22 and on July 13 Howes was posted to PDC, RAF Uxbridge, for posting to the Near East. The posting did not eventuate and he rejoined 85 on July 24. On August 18 1940 he destroyed two Bf 110s and damaged a Do 17, on the 31st got a probable Do 17 and on September 1 he shared another Do 17 and damaged a Bf 109. Posted to 605 Squadron at Croydon on September 12, Howes joined the squadron on the 14th. He destroyed a Do 17 and probably another on the 15th, destroyed a Bf 109 on October 12, damaged Bf 109s on November 1 and 2 and destroyed two on the 10th and 15th. He was awarded the DFM (25.10.40). Howes was shot down by a Bf 109 on December 1, in Hurricane V 6844, and he made a crash-landing on Gravesend aerodrome. He was posted back to 85 Squadron on December 9 1940 and was killed on the 22nd, when he apparently lost control of his aircraft and dived into the ground. Howes was 24. He is buried in St Margaret’s churchyard, Rainham, Kent.

FRANK JONATHAN HOWELL FL

FO 1.9.39

HAROLD NORMAN HOWES

PO 26.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 26.1.44

39612

PO 1.3.38

609 Squadron

Howell was born in Golders Green, Middlesex on January 25 1912 and was at Chichester School from 1925 to 1929. He worked as a clerk for the Commercial Union Assurance Company until 1934, when he went to work for the Egham Motor Co. In 1935 Howell joined Henry Howell & Co at Hendon and was there until 1936. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 1 1937 at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty. Howell went to No 1 RAF Depot at Uxbridge on May 3, for a short disciplinary course, and on the 8th he was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney. Awarded his flying badge on July 31 1937, he joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge on November 27 1937.

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PETER HOWES 74332

PO

Pilot

RICHARD ALEXANDER HOWLEY British

54 and 603 Squadrons

41705

PO

Pilot

Newfoundlander

Howes, of Wadebridge, Cornwall, was educated at Oundle School and St John’s College, Oxford, where he read Natural Science. He learned to fly with the University Air Squadron and he was a friend of Richard Hillary.

Howley was born on April 16 1920 in Esquimalt, British Columbia, the son of a Newfoundland-born officer of the Royal Navy, stationed there. The family returned to Newfoundland in 1923, when Commander Howley retired from the Navy.

In June 1939 Howes joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754281). He was called up on September 1 and commissioned on the 26th. Howes completed his training at 14 FTS, Kinloss on No 4 Course, which ran from November 20 1939 to May 11 1940. On completion, he was posted to No 1 School of Army Cooperation at Old Sarum for No 1 Course, from May 20 to June 22. On the 23rd Howes was sent to 5 OTU, Aston Down and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron at Rochford on July 8. He moved to 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 10. Howes was shot down and killed by Bf 109s on the 18th. His Spitfire, X 4323, crashed at Kennington, near Ashford. Howes was 21. He was cremated at St John’s Crematorium, Woking.

Howley was at St Bonaventure College School, St John’s from 1926 to 1933, when his father decided to move the family to England, where he could undergo better medical treatment. He was still suffering from wounds received in the 1914-1918 War. The Howleys settled in Bognor, Sussex and in 1938 Howley joined the RAFVR and began his week-end flying at 16 E&RFTS, Shoreham. He was granted a short service commission in the RAF and began his ab initio course at 10 E&RFTS on December 28 1938, as a pupil pilot. He moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 11 Course, which ran from March 20 to October 6 1939. He joined 141 Squadron on October 7, then being reformed at Turnhouse. The squadron began with Gladiators and any other aircraft that were available. In April 1940 141 began to receive Defiants and became operational in a day-fighter role on June 3. It moved south to West Malling on July 12. On the morning of July 19 1940 Howley was flying one of the nine Defiants attacked by Bf 109s of III/JG 51 off Dover. He was shot down into the Channel, in Defiant L 6995, and he and his gunner, Sergeant A G Curley, were reported ‘Missing’. Howley was 20. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 27.

PO 26.9.39

GEOFFREY LEONARD HOWITT 81037

PO

Pilot

British

245 and 615 Squadrons

Born in Beddington, Mitcham, Surrey on January 29 1914, Howitt joined Class ‘F’ of the RAF Reserve in September 1936, as a Sergeant u/t Pilot (741018) and he continued his training at 19 E&RFTS, Gatwick; 23 E&RFTS, Rochester and No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield.

APO 4.3.39 PO 2.10.39

GEORGE VINCENT HOYLE 754467

British

British

232 Squadron

HENRY NUTTALL HOYLE 47052

Sgt

Pilot

British

32 and 257 Squadrons

Hoyle joined the RAF as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot (580262) on June 29 1936 and did his ab initio training at 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick. Having proved his aptitude for flying, he was formally enlisted in the RAF on August 24 1936. After a month on an induction course at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, Hoyle went to 2 FTS, Digby on September 24. He was awarded his flying badge on January 2 1937, completed the course and joined 103 Squadron at Usworth on May 25. Hoyle moved to 98 Squadron at Hucknall on April 8 1938 and then he was posted to 226 Squadron in France on September 4 1939. Nine days later he joined 226 at Reims/ Champagne, where it was part of the AASF. Its Battles were heavily involved in the fighting of May/June 1940 and were withdrawn to England on June 15. After two months at Sydenham, Belfast, during which time the squadron carried out some anti-submarine patrols, Hoyle volunteered for Fighter Command. On September 3 he was posted to 32 Squadron at Acklington but moved on the 16th to 257 Squadron at Debden. Hoyle went to 145 Squadron at Tangmere on December 22 1940. He was posted to CFS, Cranwell on January 1 1941, for an instructors’ course, after which he went to No 1 (Polish) EFTS at Hucknall, which became 25 EFTS on June 5 1941. Posted to Canada on September 9 1941, Hoyle was commissioned in October. He instructed at 37 SFTS, Calgary until June 10 1942, when he joined 133 (RCAF) Squadron at Lethbridge, Alberta. On September 10 he went to No 1 (Fighter) OTU at Bagotville, to instruct, and moved to 31 SFTS at Kingston, Ontario on March 15 1943. After returning to the UK in late January 1944, Hoyle was posted to 107 OTU at Leicester East on May 11, as an instructor. His final posting came on February 19 1945, when he went as Testing Officer at the Empire Central Flying School, Hullavington.

ISAAC EDWARD HOWITT Pilot

Pilot

He went to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 20 Course, which ran from May 13 to August 17 1940. Hoyle was posted immediately to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 232 Squadron at Sumburgh on September 11. Hoyle was killed on May 21 1941, as a Flight Sergeant with 56 Squadron. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 36.

PO 25.4.40 FO 25.4.41 FL 25.4.42 SL 15.3.45

Sgt

Sgt

Hoyle joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his elementary training at 7 EFTS, Desford.

Called up on September 1 1939, Howitt was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill, for an assessment of his flying capabilities. He then went on to No 13 Course, which ran from September 9 to November 6 1939, for advanced training only. He joined 245 Squadron at Leconfield in November 1939 and was commissioned in April 1940. On October 9 1940 Howitt was posted to 615 Squadron at Prestwick. He moved to 85 Squadron at Debden on November 15. He destroyed a He 111 at night on April 9 1941, on June 11 damaged a Ju 88 and on July 14 he shot down a He 111. On August 21 1941 Howitt was posted to 51 OTU, Cranfield, as an instructor. He was awarded the DFC (30.9.41). He rejoined 85 Squadron, then at Hunsdon, in April 1942. Howitt destroyed a Do 217 on April 12 1943 and a FW 190 on May 16. In June 1943 he was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader and made ‘B’ Flight Commander. Early on August 23 he destroyed a Me 410 and on September 7 a FW 190. Howitt was awarded a Bar to the DFC (26.10.43) and posted away to 63 OTU, Honiley, as an instructor. In April 1944 he joined 456 (RAAF) Squadron at Ford, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. On June 10 he probably destroyed a He 177, on August 8 a V 1 flying bomb and on the 12th probably another. Howitt took command of 125 Squadron at Coltishall in December 1944 and led the squadron until he was released from the RAF on October 6 1945 as a Wing Commander. He joined the Air Registration Board and flew many and varied types of aircraft, including Viscounts, Tudors and Comets. From 1949 Howitt did test flying from Shoreham, until 1965. He was given a Queen’s Commendation in 1958, for his work as a test pilot. He is said to have flown more than 300 different types during his flying career. Howitt died in May 2001.

47172

141 Squadron

41 Squadron

Howitt joined the RAF about September 1936, as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot (580341). Nothing is known of his pre-war service except that he was with 41 Squadron at Catterick by December 1938. He served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain and was still with it in November 1940. Commissioned in October 1941, Howitt was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 15.10.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 15.10.43

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Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford. Hruby was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, as a Sergeant, to convert to Hurricanes. He joined 111 Squadron at Drem on October 9 1940 and on the 16th, on a dogfight practice flight, he crashed, whilst attempting to land in a field at Turriff, Aberdeenshire. He was taken to Turriff Hospital but was back flying on the 18th. On February 21 1941 Hruby damaged a Ju 88. In July the Squadron moved to North Weald and Hruby shot down a Bf 109 on September 4. On September 20 he damaged a Bf 109 and he damaged a Bf 109 on February 2 1942. Hruby was posted to 313 Squadron at Fairlop between 20 May and 13 June 1942 and was then posted, as an instructor, to 57 OTU at Hawarden until December 15. He went to 310 Squadron at Exeter, in May 1943. In July he was awarded the DFC. He completed a second operational tour and on July 3 1944 was posted back to the Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford where he remained until September 27 1944 when he was posted to 17 SFTS, Cranwell, for re-training to twinengined Beaufighter and Mosquito aircraft. In January 1945 he went to 51 OTU for nightfighter training but was seriously injured on a training flight on March 3, in Mosquito HK 227 and was unable to return to flying for the remainder of the war. He went back to Czechoslovakia on September 26 1945 and stayed in the Czechoslovak Air Force. He was assigned, as Commander, to 12 Squadron of 1 Air Regiment, based at Prague-Kbely. The unit was equipped with Spitfires. Following the communist take-over in February 1948, Czechoslovaks who fought with the Allies were regarded as ‘tainted’. In 1949 Hruby was stripped of his Air Force rank and dismissed. In 1950 he was arrested and held for two years in Mirov high security prison without charges being brought. On release he was only permitted to do manual work. In 1965 he was allowed to visit the UK at the time of the 25th anniversary commemorations of the Battle. Hruby died on May 15 1993 at Nova Paka, Jicin, Czechoslovakia.

Hoyle was released from the RAF in January 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1992. PO 31.10.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 31.10.43

FRANTISEK HRADIL 81889

PO

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

310 and 19 Squadrons

Hradil was born in Tesetice on September 21 1912. He was in the Czech Air Force when the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939. He was demobilised two days later, on the 17th, and later went to Poland and then to France. He was required to join the French Foreign Legion with the assurance that he would transfer to a French military unit if war was declared. He was awaiting transfer to the Legion’s training base in Algeria when war was declared and he was transferred to l’Armée de l’Air. He was assigned to CIC Chartres for re-training to French equipment on October 9. He was posted to Cazaux, near Bordeaux on May 23 but the French capitulated before he could join an operational unit. With other Czech airmen Hradil was evacuated from Bordeaux to England. Hradil was commissioned in the RAFVR on July 12, the day he joined 310 Squadron, then forming at Duxford. He converted to Hurricanes on the squadron. He was attached to 19 Squadron at Fowlmere on August 24 1940 and had to convert to Spitfires. On September 27 1940 he damaged a Bf 109 over Sandwich. On November 5 Hradil was shot down in flames and killed in combat with Bf 109s over the Thames Estuary. His Spitfire, P 7545, crashed into the sea off Southend. Hradil’s body was washed ashore on November 7. It is likely that his burns prevented him from escaping from the blazing aircraft. Hradil is buried in Sutton Road Cemetery, Southend.

PO 3.2.42 FO 10.42 FL 3.2.44 SL

JOSEF HUBACEK 60517

OTAKAR HRUBY Sergeant

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

310 Squadron

Hubacek was born on October 17 1909 at Kdyne, Domazlice. He joined the Military Aviation Academy, as a cadet, on October 1 1928 for pilot training. He then went to the Academy at Chleb for fighter pilot training after his first solo flight in May 1929. He graduated in September 1931 and attended the Air Gunnery School at Malacky, Slovakia, in 1931.

PO 12.7.40

117341

Sgt

111 Squadron

Hruby was born on November 1 1913 in Nova Paka, On October 1 1932 he joined the Military Aviation Academy at Prostejov, as a cadet, and trained as an aircraft fitter. On September 14 1933 he began his military conscription and, on October 1, was assigned to 82 Bomber Squadron of 5 Aviation Regiment, at Prague. He graduated from his training course and was posted to 83 Bomber Squadron of the same Regiment, stationed at Brno.

He was posted to 32 Fighter Squadron of 1 Air Regiment, at Prague-Kbely on October 1 1930. On December 15 1933 he was appointed as an instructor in the Regiment’s training squadron and, having attended courses for instrument and night-flying, he was posted to 43 Squadron of 1 Air Regiment at Prague. He was a skilled aerobatic pilot and represented the Czech Air Force at numerous events. He left the Czech Air Force on February 28 1938 and became a civilian pilot with CSA, the Czech national airline. When the Germans marched into Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939 the Air Force and all civilian air fleets were disbanded. Hubacek was dismissed from CSA. On July 17, with a group of former airmen and on their third attempt, Hubacek escaped to Poland. The group hid in a coal wagon on a train travelling between Ostrava and Poland. He reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate in Krakow and then travelled to Gdynia where he boarded the Chroby, on August 1 1939, and sailed to Boulogne, France. He was required to join the French Foreign Legion with the assurance that he would transfer to a French military unit if war was declared. Initially Hubacek went to the Legion base at Fort Saint Jean, at Marseilles. He was in the Legion barracks near Paris when war was declared and transferred to l’Armée de l’Air. On September 11 he was posted to CIC Chartres for re-training to French equipment. On December 2 he was posted to GC III/3, based at Toul, to fly MS-406 fighter aircraft. He was serving with GC III/3 on May 11 1940 when he destroyed a Bf 109. Later on that day his own aircraft was shot down and he had to bale out. He was wounded in the arm and was taken to hospital in Dinard. With the risk of capture from the advancing Germans, he discharged himself and travelled to Bordeaux on one of the last trains to run. From there he travelled to SaintJean-de-Luz where, on June 24, he boarded the Arandora Star which arrived in Liverpool on June 27. Initially at RAF Innsworth, Hubacek was probably posted to the RAF Czechoslovak Depot, Cosford in mid-July 1940, where he joined the RAFVR. He joined 310 Squadron at Duxford on July 12. Hubacek almost certainly converted to Hurricanes on the squadron and flew his first operational sortie on August 17. On September 9 he got a probable Bf 110. On September 15, he shared in attacking the Do 17, part of which fell in the forecourt of Victoria Station. On this day Hubacek was shot down in combat over the Thames. He baled out, slightly injured in the foot, and was admitted to Royal Naval Hospital, Chatham. His Hurricane, R 4087, crashed at Walnut Tree Farm, Stoke, Kent. He rejoined 310 Squadron on September 30 and returned to operational flying on October 2. He was temporarily attached to 24 Squadron as an instructor between

On April 1 1935 he returned to Prostejov for air-gunner training. On September 30 he was posted to 74 Light Bomber Squadron of 6 Air Regiment, at Hradec-Kbely, to complete this training. Between April 1936 and April 1937 he was also an instructor at 5 and 6 Air Regiments at Brno. In February 1938 Hruby was selected for pilot training and went to the Academy at Chleb, with additional training at Hradec-Kbely. On June 1 1938 he was posted to 4 Air Regiment, at Prague-Kbely for fighter pilot training. On December 1 he was sent to 48 Fighter Squadron of 4 Air Regiment, at Pardubice, to fly Avia 534-B biplanes. The Germans took over Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939 and Hruby was demobilised on the 17th. On June 4 1939, Hruby, with three airmen colleagues, travelled to Ostrava and then, by rural train, to Frydek-Mistek where a guide led them across the border to Poland on June 8. They reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate in Krakow. They travelled to Gdynia and on June 20 boarded the Sobieski to sail to France, via Dover. Hruby was required to join the French Foreign Legion with the assurance that he would transfer to a French military unit if war was declared. Initially he went to the Legion base at Fort Saint Jean, at Marseilles. On July 12 he went, by sea to Oran and then to the Legion training base at Sidi-belAbbes. When war was declared he transferred to l’Armee de l’Air and, after a refresher flying course at Blida, was assigned to 572 Escadrille Regionalle de Chasse at La Senia., He was then posted to GC I/10, based at Oran, Algeria, to fly MS-406s. Despite the rapid advance of the Germans in France the unit remained at Oran to counter the perceived threat from the Italian Air Force as Italy had now entered the war. It is believed that he shot down two Savoia Marchetti bombers at this time. After the French collapse in June 1940, Hruby was released from service with l’Armee de l’Air and escaped from Algeria to Casablanca. On June 28 he boarded the Gib-el-Dersa and sailed to Gibraltar and then on the Cidonia in a convoy to Liverpool where he arrived on July 16. Hruby went to the Czech transit camp at Cholmondeley and then, on July 21, to the Depot at Cosford. After joining the RAFVR as an AC2, he was kitted out at the RAF

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Jurby for No 7B (Fighter) Course, which ran from March 11 to 23, a course for partiallytrained gunners from fighter squadrons. With the course completed, they returned to the squadron at Tangmere, to find that 601’s Blenheims had been replaced by Hurricanes. In May these newly-qualified air gunners were posted to 600 Squadron at Manston, to replace men lost when the squadron lost five aircraft on a daylight raid on Waalhaven airfield, Rotterdam on May 10. Huckin served with 600 throughout the Battle of Britain and took part in the first night intruder sorties over France in November 1940. He was posted away in December and spent a non-operational spell on Wellingtons. He later remustered for pilot training and successfully completed his course. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in January 1943, Huckin was awarded the DFC (7.3.44), as a Flying Officer with 157 Squadron. He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant.

November 5 and 18. He returned to 310 Squadron and remained there until March 14 1941. He was posted to the Czechoslovak Depot as an instructor until April 24 and then to RAF Kemble, again as an instructor, until May 28. His next posting was to 10 MU at Hullavington as a test pilot. On August 14 he was attached to 15 MU at Wroughton, also as a test pilot, returning to 10 MU on October 21 and remaining there until November 12. He was then posted to 45 Air Ferry Group where he ferried aircraft between Canada and England. Between December 8 and 18 he returned, briefly, to the Czech Depot and was then posted to 24 Squadron, Transport Command, at Hendon. Here he flew personnel and VIPs flights to the Middle and Far East and later on flights to liberated Europe. He remained with 24 Squadron until the end of the war. Hubacek left the RAF as a Flight Lieutenant and returned to Czechoslovakia on August 18 1945. He remained in the Czech Air Force, assigned to the Transport Squadron at Prague-Ruznye. On December 1 1945 he was appointed as Operations Officer. Later, Hubacek left the Czech Air Force and rejoined CSA, as its Chief Pilot. Following the communist take-over, in February 1948, the Czechs who had fought with the Allies were regarded as ‘tainted’. Hubacek was dismissed from CSA in 1948 and was interrogated and threatened with imprisonment by the State Security Police. He was forced to leave Prague and go back to his parents’ flat in Kdyne and permitted only to do menial work until his retirement in 1950. He died on April 9 1988 after prolonged heart trouble.

PO 10.1.43 FO 10.7.43 FL 10.1.45

ARTHUR JAMES HUGHES 745669

Observer

British

235 Squadron

Hubbard, of Radford, Coventry, joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and was with 235 Squadron at North Coates by March 31 1940. Hubbard was later with 431 Flight and was killed on November 9 1940. He is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 1, Column 1.

THOMAS EDWARD HUBBARD 90138

FL

Pilot

British

British

245 Squadron

He moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 21 Course, which ran from June 10 to September 7 1940. At the end of the course, Hughes was sent immediately to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 245 Squadron at Aldergrove on the 30th. He moved to 249 Squadron at North Weald on November 10 and then to 17 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on the 18th. On March 18 1941 Hughes was shot down and wounded whilst on patrol over Kent, possibly by Spitfires from Biggin Hill. He went to Tunbridge Wells Hospital. Hughes was commissioned from Warrant Officer on August 12 1942. He was killed May 30 1944 as a Flying Officer with 66 Squadron, based at Bognor, Sussex. His Spitfire lX, MH 455, crashed near Shoreham, Sussex, as he was attempting to abandon it. The aircraft had suffered radiator problems during a Ramrod (bomber escort) sortie to a radar site. He was 24 and is buried in Stoke (St Michael) churchyard, Warwickshire.

BRIAN FREDERICK ROBERT HUBBARD Sgt

Pilot

Hughes joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745669). Called up on September 1, he completed his elementary training at 9 EFTS, Ansty.

PO 9.2.41 FO 42 FL 42

751399

Sgt

601 Squadron PO 12.8.42 FO 12.2.43 Hubbard was born on December 27 1911 and educated at Eton. He joined 601 Squadron, AAF in 1937 and he was commissioned on May 7. He was called to service on August 25 1939.

DAVID ERNEST HUGHES NZ 40920

British

600 Squadron

DAVID PRICE HUGHES 37769

FL Pilot

British

238 Squadron Hughes, from St Annes-on-Sea, Lancashire, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on February 17 1936, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 2 FTS, Digby on May 2 and with training completed, he joined 16 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Old Sarum on May 1 1937.

PHILIP EDWARD HUCKIN Air Gunner

New Zealander

In early May Hughes went on a gunnery course at the Air Observers’ School at Ohakea. He sailed for the UK in June in the RMS Rangitata and arrived there on July 20 1940. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on the 21st, to await a posting. On July 30 Hughes was posted to No 1(C) OTU at Silloth but after four days he was sent to 5 OTU, Aston Down, where he converted to Blenheims. Hughes joined 600 Squadron at Redhill on September 211940. He was a member of the crew of Blenheim L 4905, which crashed in heavy rain at Forest Row, Sussex in the early hours of October 3 1940, after an engagement with enemy aircraft. Hughes, Pilot Officer C A Hobson, pilot, and AC 2 C F Cooper, radar operator, were all killed. Hughes is buried in St Luke’s churchyard, Whyteleafe, Surrey.

PO (AAF) 7.5.37 FO 25.8.39 FL 3.9.40

Sgt

Air Gunner

Born in Dunedin on October 20 1912, Hughes worked on his father’s farm. He volunteered for aircrew duties but did not report to the Ground Training School at Weraroa until April 9 1940.

He took part in an attack on the Luftwaffe seaplane base at Borkum on November 28 1939. Twelve Blenheims took off from Bircham Newton, six from 25 Squadron and six from 601 Squadron. All aircraft returned safely to Debden. Three Heinkel 115s were destroyed and three more damaged. It was the first fighter attack of the war on a target in Germany. On May 16 1940 Hubbard went with ‘A’ Flight of 601 to France, to reinforce 3 Squadron. On the 19th he destroyed a He111 and was then himself shot down. He made a forced-landing at Noyelles, S of Arras, set his Hurricane on fire and then made his way back to 601 at Merville. On the 27th he destroyed a Bf 110 W of Dunkirk. The flight was withdrawn to Middle Wallop on June 1. On the 7th, on a patrol over France Hubbard shot down a Bf 109 and was himself shot down and reported ‘Missing’. Next day he was reported safe by No 8 Port Detachment. When Max Aitken took command of 601 on June 7, Hubbard wsa made ‘B’ Flight Commander and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant. He reverted to Flying Officer when Flying Officer W H Rhodes-Moorhouse took over ‘B’ Flight. He shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 off St Catherine’s Point on July 16 and shared in destroying a He 59 and damaging a Do 17 S of Selsey Bill on the 20th. Hubbard, in company with Pilot Officers M D Doulton and T Grier, had attempted to escort the floatplane back to land but it was abandoned by its crew of four, who baled out too low for their parachutes to open. The aircraft went into the sea. Hubbard transferred to the Administrative and General Duties Branch on September 24 1941. He was released from the RAF in mid 1943, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1985.

151056

Sgt

He moved to 53 Squadron at Farnborough on June 28 1937 and in June 1938 he was posted to the staff at the No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum. Hughes arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 11 1940 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 238 Squadron at Middle Wallop on August 4 and was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on the 9th.

600 Squadron

Huckin joined 601 Squadron, AAF in early 1939, as an Aircrafthand (801583). Called up on August 24 1939, he began training as an air gunner with the squadron. In early March 1940 Huckin and 12 other air gunners from 601 were sent to 5 B&GS,

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He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on August 8, a Bf 109 on the 11th and a Do 17 and two Bf 110s destroyed and a Bf 109 probably destroyed on the 13th. Hughes was Acting CO of 238 from August 12 to 16, when Flight Lieutenant M V Blake took over as temporary CO. Hughes failed to return from the interception of Ju 88s S of Tunbridge Wells on September 11 and was reported ‘Missing’, in Hurricane V 7240. He was 22 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 4. Hughes was awarded the DFC (9.5.41, with effect from 21.8.40).

(1.1.54), made a CBE (1.1.62), a CB (1972) and retired on June 6 1974 as an Air ViceMarshal. He died on January 11 1992.

APO 20.4.36 PO 17.2.37 FO 17.8.38 FL 17.8.40

JOHN McCULLOCH MIDDLEMORE HUGHES

PO 3.10.39 FO 29.10.40 FL 3.10.41 SL 1.7.45 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.1.53 GC 1.7.58 AC 1.1.63 AVM 1.7.67

33191

FL

Pilot

DENNIS LAWRENCE HUGHES 84913

PO

Pilot

British

The squadron, then equipped with Fairey Battles, flew to France on September 2 1939, as part of the AASF. In the fighting in May 1940 Hughes led many bombing raids on German troops and lines of communication. He was then commanding ‘A’ Flight, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. In one operation he was attacked by Bf 109s and by skilful manoeuvring, Hughes enabled his gunner to shoot one down. He was awarded the DFC (21.6.40). The squadron was withdrawn to Mildenhall on June 13 1940. Hughes was attached to 17 OTU, Upwood on July 12 for conversion to Blenheims, to which 218 was converting at that time. He was back with the squadron by July19. He relinquished command of ‘A’ Flight on August 8. In answer to a call for pilots to replace those lost in action, he volunteered for Fighter Command. On September 15 1940 he was posted to 6 Radio Maintenance Unit at Biggin Hill but on the 26th he joined 25 Squadron at North Weald, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. In the evening of December 7 1940, flying from Wittering, Hughes and his crew of two, Sergeant J R Friend, air gunner, and Sergeant F Blenkharn, radar operator, were to check the blackout over Peterborough. During the patrol, the weather deteriorated and a bad storm developed. In very bad visibility, the Blenheim collided with an aircraft, in which were pilots practicing night landings at Peterborough aerodrome. Hughes’ aircraft, L1235, crashed in a field near Elton, Northamptonshire. He and Friend were killed and Blenkharn was seriously injured and did not fly again. All six men in the other aircraft were also killed. Hughes is buried in Chilworth churchyard, Hampshire.

He joined 141 Squadron at West Malling on August 19. He was with it until December 16 1940, when he was posted to 256 Squadron, then being formed at Catterick, with Defiants. In early 1944 Hughes joined 239 Squadron at West Raynham, to fly Mosquitos on bomber-support. During the night of May 22/23 1944 he shot down a Bf 110, on May 24/25 another Bf 110 and on August 29/30 he destroyed a Ju 88. He was awarded the DFC (8.12.44), as an Acting Squadron Leader. He destroyed a Ju 188 during the night of March 16/17 1945 and another on April 3. Hughes was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Squadron Leader. He died on December 17 1989. PO 3.8.40 FO 3.8.41 FL 3.8.42

FREDERICK DESMOND HUGHES FO

Pilot

British

25 Squadron Hughes was born at Bromsgrove, Worcestershire on February 13 1917. He was at Haileybury College from 1930 to 1934 and entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1935, as a Flight Cadet. After he had graduated, with a Permanent Commission, on July 31 1937, he joined 218 Squadron at Boscombe Down, a light bomber squadron.

141 Squadron

Hughes joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745296). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 6 FTS, Little Rissington on August 2 1940, was commissioned and then went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, where he converted to Defiants.

74706

British

264 Squadron

Born in Belfast on June 6 1919, Hughes was educated at Campbell College, Belfast and Pembroke College, Cambridge, where he read Law. He learned to fly with the University Air Squadron and he was granted a Direct-Entry Commission in the RAF on October 3 1939.

PO 31.7.37 FO 31.1.39 FL 3.9.40 He went to No 1 ITW, Cambridge in November 1939. On January 1 1940 Hughes was posted to RAF College FTS, Cranwell, on No 2 war course. He was detached for a few days in May to 5 FTS, Sealand, to convert to Masters. He then returned to Cranwell, where the course ended on June 1. Hughes was sent immediately to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum for No 8 Course. On June 10 Hughes was one of 20 officers from the course who were posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down. After converting to Defiants, he was posted to 264 Squadron at Duxford on the 19th. Flying with Sergeant F Gash as his gunner, Hughes claimed two Do 17s destroyed on August 26, a He 111 destroyed during the night of October 15/16, a He 111 damaged on November 23/24, a He 111 destroyed on March 12/13 1941, a He 111 probably destroyed on April 8/9 and a He 111 shot down on April 10/11. Hughes was awarded the DFC (18.4.41) and Gash the DFM. In January 1942 Hughes was posted to 125 Squadron at Colerne, as a Flight Commander. He shared in the squadron’s first victory, a Ju 88 on June 27. Later in the year he teamed up with Pilot Officer L Dixon and they shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 on November 4. Hughes joined 600 Squadron in North Africa on January 19 1943, as a Flight Commander. Dixon went with him and during the night of January 23/24 they claimed two Ju 88s destroyed and on February 12/ 13 a Cant Z 1007. Hughes was awarded a Bar to the DFC (13.4.43). On April 25/26 they claimed a Ju 88 destroyed, on July 12/13 a He 111, on the 20/21st a Ju 88, on August 11/12 three Ju 88s and on the 17/18th a Ju 87. Hughes was awarded a second Bar to the DFC (28.9.43). At the end of 1943 he was posted back to the UK and went to a staff job at Fighter Command. In February 1944 he was promoted to Acting Wing Commander and posted to 85 Group TAF. Hughes returned to operations on July 19 1944, taking command of 604 Squadron at Hurn. In early August the squadron was operating from A 8, an airstrip close to the Arromanches beaches. With Dixon as his navigator, Hughes destroyed a Ju 88 on August 6/7 and they claimed their final victory on January 13/14 1945, a Ju 188 over Rotterdam. Hughes was awarded the DSO (23.3.45). He went on to a notable career in the post-war RAF. Hughes was awarded the AFC

PATERSON CLARENCE HUGHES 39461

FO

Pilot

Australian

234 Squadron

Born near Cooma, New South Wales on September 19 1917, Hughes was educated at Cooma Public School, Petersham Public High School and Fort Street High School, Sydney. He entered the RAAF, as a Cadet at Point Cook, in 1936. On January 9 1937 Hughes sailed for the UK. He transferred to the RAF on February 19 1937, was commissioned, but continued to wear RAAF uniform for some time. Hughes was posted to 2 FTS at Digby on February 27, for an assessment of his flying, after which he joined 64 Squadron at Martlesham Heath. Hughes joined the recently reformed 234 Squadron at Leconfield on November 9 1939, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. He was attached to RAF Northolt on March 26 1940, for an Air Fighting Course of Instruction. He rejoined 234 on April 8. On July 8 he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88, on the 27th he damaged another and shared in destroying one on the 28th. Hughes destroyed a Bf 110 and shared another on August 15, shot down two Bf 109s on the 16th, two more on the 18th, two more on the 26th, three Bf 110s on September 4, two Bf 109s on the 5th and one Bf 109 destroyed and another probably destroyed on the 6th. On September 7 the squadron encountered a force of Dorniers, escorted by Bf 109s, SE of Folkestone. An official report states that Hughes’ Spitfire, X 4009, was damaged by being struck by pieces of the Dornier that he was attacking, when the German aircraft began to break up. However, eyewitness accounts suggest that Hughes deliberately rammed the Dornier, with this possibly confirmed by the fact that pieces of his aircraft were discovered in the Dornier wreckage when the bomber was excavated in the 1970s, close to the Spitfire crash site. The Dornier was going down, after being attacked by pilots of 602 Squadron.

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After completing his flying training at 13 FTS, Drem, Hugo went to the 11 Group Pool, St Athan on October 23 1939. He was posted to No 2 Ferry Pool at Filton on November 17 and he then joined 615 Squadron at Vitry in France on December 17 1939. On May 20 1940 Hugo destroyed a He 111. The squadron was withdrawn to Kenley next day. On May 23 Hugo was one of six 615 Squadron pilots who were formed into ‘G’ Flight, to fly Gladiators. The Flight went immediately to Manston, where it was attached to 604 Squadron for operations. On May 30 the Gladiators returned to Kenley and ‘G’ Flight was disbanded. On July 14 Hugo probably destroyed a Ju 87, on the 17th he damaged a Do 17, on the 20th probably destroyed two Bf 109s, on the 25th probably another Bf 109 and on the 27th he shared in destroying a He 59 floatplane. Hugo was attached to the Air Fighting Development Unit, Northolt on July 29, for a course. His next operational sortie with 615 was on August 12, during which he destroyed a Bf 109. On the 16th he damaged a He 111 in the Brighton area. During this combat, his aircraft was severely damaged by a Bf 110 and he returned to Kenley, slightly wounded in both legs. On the 18th Hugo made a crash-landing at Orpington, after a combat with Bf 109s, in Hurricane R 4221. He was admitted to Orpington Hospital, with wounds to the face. He was awarded the DFC (23.8.40) and returned to the squadron on September 22 and flew his first operational sortie on the 24th. Hugo was appointed a Flight Commander in September 1941. On October 14 he shared a He 59 and he was awarded a Bar to the DFC (25.11.41). In November he was given command of 41 Squadron at Merston. He destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another on February 12 1942 and destroyed two more on March 14 and 26. Hugo was made Wing Leader at Tangmere on April 12 and on this day he damaged a FW 190, on the 16th he damaged a Bf 109 and on the 27th he got a probable FW 190 and damaged another. He was shot down in this engagement, baled out into the Channel and was picked up by an ASR launch, wounded. He was awarded the DSO (29.5.42). After a spell at HQ 11 Group, Hugo was appointed Wing Leader at Hornchurch on July 18 1942 but stayed only until August 31, being then posted to lead 322 Wing in North Africa. On November 12 he shared a Do 217 over Bougie, Algeria, on the 13th he probably destroyed a Ju 88, on the 15th a probable He 111, on the 16th and 18th destroyed Ju 88s and on the 21st, 26th and 28th Bf 109s. On November 29 1942 Hugo took temporary command of 322 Wing, when the CO was injured in an attack on the airfield. On December 2 he destroyed a SM 79 and shared another and on the 14th destroyed a SM 79. Hugo was awarded a second Bar to the DFC (16.2.43) and posted to HQ North West African Coast Air Force on March 13 1943. He took command of 322 Wing again in June 1943. On the 29th he damaged a Bf 109, on September 2 destroyed a FW 190 and an Arado Ar 196 on November 18. Hugo damaged a Bf 109 on July 10 and continued to lead the Wing until its disbandment in November 1944, when he was posted to HQ Mediterranean Allied Air Forces. He was later seconded to Marshal Tolbukin’s 2nd Ukranian Army, then moving from Romania to Austria. After returning to the UK, Hugo was posted to the Central Fighter Establishment. In addition to his other awards, he received the C de G (Fr) and the DFC (US)(14.11.44). Hugo retired from the RAF on February 19 1950, as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Group Captain. He died in South Africa in 1986. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in February 1941.

The Spitfire crashed at Darks Farm, Bessels Green and Hughes fell dead in the back garden of 16 Main Road, Sundridge. An eye witness account suggested that Hughes baled out but his parachute failed to open. He is buried in St James’ churchyard, Sutton-in-Holderness, Hull. Hughes was awarded the DFC (22.10.40), being credited in the citation with seven enemy aircraft destroyed. A memorial plaque to him stands at the garden crash site. His medals are on permanent display at the Australian War Memorial, Canberra. PO 19.2.37 FO 19.11.38

WILLIAM ROBERT KENT HUGHES 137124

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

23 Squadron

Hughes was born in Tunbrisge Wells, but at the age of five was adopted by his father’s parents and lived in Northampton. He was educated there at St Matthew’s School and Bective Secondary Modern School. He went on to be employed by a builder of luxury coaches. He joined the RAFVR on May 12 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (751133), and was called up on September 1. He went to 11 Air Observer Navigation School, Hamble for a wireless course on March 4 1940 and to Jurby on a gunnery course. Hughes was at 5 B&GS, Jurby from June 30 to July 20 1940, on No 14 Air Gunnery Course. He then moved to 5 OTU, Aston Down, to convert to Blenheims. On August 17 1940 he joined 23 Squadron at Collyweston. Hughes’ last sortie with 23 Squadron was made on October 13 1940. He was posted away to 9 Squadron on November 16 but went instead to 149 Squadron at Mildenhall on the 21st, to fly in Wellingtons. On March 11 1941 Hughes went to Malta, to join 148 Squadron at Luqa, but was instead posted to Egypt, where he joined 70 Squadron at Kabrit on April 2. When his tour was completed, he returned to the UK in early 1942, went to 23 OTU, Pershore in April and joined 12 Squadron at Binbrook on July 27. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in November 1942, Hughes completed his second tour and was awarded the DFC (12.3.43). In early March 1943 he went to 28 OTU, Wymeswold, as an instructor. He was posted to CGS, Sutton Bridge on June 15, for a Gunnery Leaders’ course, after which he moved to 7 AGS, Bishopscourt, Northern Ireland, as Gunnery Leader. On January 18 1944 Hughes went to 50 Squadron at Skellingthorpe, on operational liaison duties. He was released from the RAF in March 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 11.11.42

FO 11.5.43

FL 11.11.44

JOHN ANTHONY HUGHES-REES 113942

Sgt

Pilot

British

601 and 609 Squadrons

Hughes-Rees, of Newport, Monmouthshire, joined the RAFVR about April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745790). Called up on September 1, he was posted to 22 EFTS, Cambridge in December, to complete his elementary flying training. He moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand for No 48 Course, which ran from May 27 to August 10 1940. He then went to 7 OTU, Hawarden, for No 5 Course. Having converted to Spitfires, Hughes-Rees was delayed after the course ended on September 2 and did not join 601 Squadron at Exeter until the 12th. He made his first flight on the 13th, local flying, and flew his first, and only, operational sortie with the squadron on the 17th, a section patrol. Hughes-Rees was posted away to 609 Squadron at Middle Wallop on September 18 and flew his first operational sortie with it on the 24th. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on the 25th and afterwards made a crash-landing at Glastonbury, with engine trouble, in Spitfire L 1008. On October 7 he destroyed a Bf 109. Still with 609 in May 1941, he shared in the destruction of a Bf 109 on the 8th, damaged another on the 21st, destroyed one on June 30 and destroyed one and probably another on July 8. He was awarded the DFM (8.8.41) and commissioned in December. Posted away from 609 in March 1942, Hughes-Rees went to 53 OTU, Llandow, as an instructor. In June he did a gunnery course at CGS, Sutton Bridge and was then posted to the Middle East, where he joined 73 OTU, Abu Sueir, as an instructor. Hughes-Rees died of poliomyelitis on April 30 1943, as a Flying Officer, still at 73 OTU. He was 22 and is buried in Moascar War Cemetery, Egypt.

APO 1.4.39 PO 21.10.39 FO 21.10.40 FL 21.10.41 SL 12.7.42 SL 1.9.45

DONALD JAMES HULBERT 176565

Pilot

South African

British

257 and 501 Squadronss

He went direct to 601 Squadron at Tangmere on May 20 but was sent on to the newly-reformed 257 Squadron at Hendon next day. On July 19 Hulbert shared in destroying a Do 17. His Hurricane, V 7317, was damaged in combat on September 7 and he made a forced-landing near Sittingbourne. Hulbert’s last flight with 257 was made on September 24 1940, from Castle Camps to Martlesham Heath. He went to 501 Squadron at Kenley in early October. He made his first flight in the afternoon of October 10 and later the same afternoon he flew his first operational sortie with the squadron, an uneventful patrol. There is no further mention of him in the 501 Squadron ORB.

PETRUS HENDRIK HUGO FO

Pilot

Hulbert joined the RAFVR about February 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745041). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 44 Course, from November 6 1939 to May 20 1940.

PO 1.12.41 FO 1.10.42

41848

Sgt

615 Squadron

Born at Pampoenpoort, Cape Province, South Africa on December 20 1917, he went to the Witwatersrand College of Aeronautical Engineering. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio training at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell on January 23 1939, as a pupil pilot.

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probably destroyed two He 111s on the 26th. Hull destroyed a Ju 87 on the 27th. He was then hit by fire from another Ju 87 and a Bf 110 and crashed, wounded in the head and knee. He was thrown clear and lay unconscious for a while. After coming to and walking away, dazed and sore, Hull was helped to Bodo Hospital by a Norwegian. On the 28th he was sent north in a hospital ship and two days later flown back to Britain in a Sunderland. He was awarded the DFC (21.6.40). Hull rejoined 263 Squadron from No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on June 22, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. He received a Mention in Despatches (11.7.40). The CO of 43 Squadron, Squadron Leader J V C Badger, was wounded on August 30 1940 and the next day Hull arrived at Tangmere to take command, as an Acting Squadron Leader. He claimed two Bf 110s probably destroyed on September 4 and claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and shared a Ju 88 on the 6th. In the late afternoon of the 7th the squadron was scrambled to meet a large force of Do 17s, escorted by Bf 109s. Hull was last seen diving to attack the bombers. He is believed to have been shot down by a Bf 109 and killed in his aircraft. His Hurricane, V 6641, crashed in the grounds of Purley High School. Hull is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Tangmere.

Commissioned from Warrant Officer in April 1944, he was released in early 1946, as a Flying Officer. Hulbert joined the RAFVR in 1948 and served with it for some years. He died on February 27 2006. PO 26.4.44 FO 26.10.44 FO (RAFVR) 15.12.48

FRANK HORACE RAYMOND HULBERT 123641

Sgt

Pilot

British 601 Squadron

Hulbert, from Handsworth, went to Vesey School from 1928 to 1933. He joined the RAFVR in December 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742801), and began flying at 14 E&RFTS, Castle Bromwich. Called to full-time service on September 1 1939, Hulbert was posted to 3 ITW, Hastings. In March 1940 he went to 18 EFTS, Fair Oaks, moved to 10 EFTS, Yatesbury in May and finished his training at 8 FTS, Montrose on No 19 Course, from May 6 to August 16 1940. Hulbert arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down, on August 17 but it was a posting error and he transferred to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 19th. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 601 Squadron at Exeter on September 16, making his first flight on the 18th, local flying. In May 1941 Hulbert went to the Station Flight at RAF Northolt and in August he was posted to 59 OTU at Crosby-on-Eden, as an instructor. Commissioned in May 1942, he returned to operations in February 1943, joining 193 Squadron at Harrowbeer. He was awarded the AFC (2.6.43). In April 1944 Hulbert was appointed to command 10 Group Communications Flight. He was posted to 11 Armament Practice Camp at Fairwood Common in August 1944. It became No 1 Armament Practice Squadron in July 1945. Hulbert went to RAF Molesworth for 1335 Jet Conversion Course in August and in September went to his final posting, 3 Armament Practice Squadron at Hawkinge. Demobilised in November 1945, Hulbert joined the RAFVR in March 1947 and instructed at 5 RFS, Castle Bromwich until 1953. He retired in 1957 as a Flight Lieutenant. Hulbert died in September 2004.

APO 16.9.35 PO 16.9.36 FO 16.4.38 FL 16.4.40

JOHN BERNARD WILLIAM HUMPHERSON 39317

Pilot

South African

British

32 and 607 Squadrons

He was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on January 16 1937 and with training completed, he joined 32 Squadron at Church Fenton on August 7. On August 12 1939 he was with 607 Squadron at Usworth, as Operations Officer. On September 2 Humpherson joined RAF Usworth for Operations duties. On October 5 1939 he rejoined 607 Squadron and went with it when it flew its Gladiators from Croydon to Merville on November 15. He destroyed a He 111 and shared another on May 10 1940 and destroyed another on the 11th. Humpherson was posted back to England soon afterwards and joined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on May 20. The squadron flew some patrols over Northern France and on May 22 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 in the Bethune/Arras area. Humpherson claimed a Do 17 destroyed on July 10, a Ju 87 on the 20th, a Bf 109 probably destroyed on August 12 and a Ju 88 destroyed and a Bf 109 probably destroyed on the 15th. He rejoined 607 Squadron at Usworth on August 23 and was awarded the DFC (30.8.40). He damaged a Do 17 on September 15. Humpherson was posted from 607 to A&AEE, Farnborough on December 20 1940. He was still there in June 1941 and on the 22nd he was detailed to fly a doctor to RAF West Raynham, Norfolk, where 90 Squadron was based. The doctor was to take part in the evaluation of the oxygen system on one of 90 Squadron’s Flying Fortresses. The doctor arranged for Humpherson to go on the test flight. The aircraft was apparently struck by lightning. The doctor, the sole survivor, told how he helped Humpherson to bale out but his parachute did not work properly and he was killed. The aircraft broke up in the air and crashed at Catterick Bridge. Humpherson was 24 and is buried in St Paul’s churchyard, Heslington, Yorkshire.

CAESAR BARRAUD HULL FL

Pilot

Born in Enfield, Middlesex in 1916, Humpherson was educated at Brighton College. He joined the RAF on October 12 1936 on a short service commission and began his ab initio training, as a pupil pilot.

PO 8.5.42 FO 8.11.42 FL 8.5.44 FO (RAFVR) 11.3.48

37285

FL

263 and 43 Squadrons

Hull was born on February 23 1913 at Leachdale Farm in Shangani, Southern Rhodesia. His father served in the desert campaign in German West Africa in the First World War. In 1918 the family was farming at Nylstroom in the Transvaal, South Africa, moving later to Voeglestruiskvaal, near Rustenburg. Hull and his elder brother were taught at home by their parents until 1926, when they went as day boys to St John’s College, Johannesburg. They later became boarders in this, the best and most expensive school in Transvaal. On leaving, Hull returned to the family farm, then at M’Babane, Swaziland. He went to work for a mining company and in 1934 he was picked for the Springbok boxing team at the Empire Games at Wembley. After returning home, Hull decided to join the South African Air Force. There was an initial difficulty because he did not speak Afrikaans but eventually he went, as a cadet, to the SAAF Reserve Training School at Roberts Heights. On completion of the course, Hull’s lack of Afrikaans prevented his transfer to the SAAF. In 1935 Hull applied for an RAF short service commission and was provisionally accepted. He began his ab initio course in July, went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on September 16 1935, for a short induction course, and on the 28th he was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham. With training completed, Hull joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere on August 5 1936. Flying in a Fury, he represented 43 in aerobatics on June 26 1937 at the Hendon Air Display. In Spring 1938, having won three eliminating boxing bouts, Hull decided against taking part in the Imperial Championships to be held in South Africa because he did not wish for a three months absence from 43. The officer who took his place was killed in an aeroplane crash in Rhodesia. In late 1938 43 was re-equipped with Hurricanes. Hull was commanding ‘A’ Flight by December 31 1938 and he was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on March 2 1939. On January 30 1940 he and Sergeant F R Carey shared in the destruction of a He 111 five miles E of Coquet Island, on February 13 he destroyed another in the first raid on Scapa Flow and on March 28 and April 10 he shared two more. On May 9 1940 Hull was posted to 263 Squadron, as a Flight Commander. Within a few days the squadron’s Gladiators were loaded on to the aircraft carrier HMS Furious at Scapa Flow and on the 14th it sailed for Norway. On arrival, the squadron remained on board because the airfield at Bardufoss was not yet servicable. On the 21st Hull led his flight off in thick weather and landed safely, although one section of 263 had to return to the carrier. He damaged a He 111 on the 22nd, shared in the destruction of another on the 24th and destroyed two Ju 52s, damaged a third and

APO 21.12.36 PO 12.10.37 FO 12.5.39 FL 3.9.40

ANDREW HENRY HUMPHREY 33543

PO

Pilot

British

266 Squadron

Born in Edinburgh on January 10 1921, Humphrey was educated at Bellhaven Preparatory School and Bradfield College. He entered RAF College, Cranwell on January 12 1939, as a Flight Cadet. After the outbreak of war, Cranwell cadets, who had not completed their courses, were enlisted in the regular RAF on September 7 1939, as Airmen u/t Pilots, and each given an Airman number. Humphrey (581719) graduated on April 30 1940 and was granted a Permanent Commission. On May 4 he was posted to 9 B&GS Penrhos, as a staff pilot, flying Demons, training observers and air gunners. On September 3 1940 Humphrey went to 7 OTU, Hawarden, converted to Spitfires and joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on the 16th. After the Battle of Britain the squadron went over to night fighting. On December 4 1940 Humphrey destroyed a He 111 over the Zuider Zee, having chased it across the North Sea. During the night of May 8/9 1941 Humphrey destroyed another He 111, over Nottingham, and two nights later another two, the first shot down over the Belgian coast and the second shortly after take off from a nearby airfield. On the same sortie Humphrey also damaged a Bf 110. For these actions Humphrey was awarded the DFC (30.5.41).

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He took part in the action of August 15, when the Germans sent a force of He 111s, escorted by Bf 110s, from Norway to attack the Newcastle area. They were met out at sea and heavy losses inflicted. Flying from Croydon on September 8, Humphreys damaged a Bf 109 and on the 9th he probably destroyed a He 111 and was then shot down himself and he baled out, with a badly wounded hand. Falling from 12,000 feet, he pulled his ripcord at 3,000. As he drifted across the Canadian Army Camp at Bordon, he was fired on, one bullet going through the left breast pocket of his tunic, leaving a welt on the left side of his body. Humphreys landed just outside the camp, was picked up by Canadians, relieved of his buttons, maps and flying boots and at Cambridge Military Hospital, Aldershot, he lost his little finger. Humphreys rejoined the squadron on November 28 and two weeks later was posted to 15 FTS, Oxford, as a staff pilot, having been classified as A2 flying category. Throughout 1941 and 1942 he served at various training schools, as a staff pilot. In late December 1942 Humphreys returned to operations, joining 486 Squadron, as a supernumerary. He went to 609 Squadron at Manston in mid-February 1943, did a ground attack course, specialising in rocket projectiles, and in early May was posted to the Middle East. After three weeks practice flying at 71 OTU, Ismailia, Humphreys joined 6 Squadron at Ben Gardane, as special instructor on rockets. On September 25 he went to 127 Squadron at St Jean in Palestine, as a Flight Commander. In January 1944 he was posted to HQ Air Command South East Asia at Calcutta, on staff duties. He joined 42 Squadron at Tulihal on July 23, as a supernumerary, moving in late October to 11 Squadron at Imphal, as a Flight Commander. He was given command of 60 Squadron at Kangla on December 6. Humphreys fell sick with hepatitis on April 22 1945 and he was taken to Calcutta, relinquishing his command on May 23. Fully recovered, he took command of 8 Squadron, IAF. The squadron worked up and moved to Mingaladon on July 15 and began fighter-bomber attacks against the Japanese. On August 26 it escorted the Japanese generals into Rangoon, for the formal surrender. Humphreys was posted away on November 15 1945, when the personnel became completely Indian. He took command of 20 Squadron at Bangkok, left it in mid-February 1946, returned to the UK in May and was released from the RAF on July 12 1946 as a Squadron Leader. Humphreys married in England and remained there until June 1951, when he returned to New Zealand. Humphreys died in Wanganui in 1986.

On July 19 1941 he joined 452 Squadron at Kenley. On a sweep over France on the 24th Humphrey destroyed a Bf 109. Tour-expired, he went to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as an instructor, on August 17. Humphrey joined 175 Squadron at its formation at Warmwell on March 3 1942, as a Flight Commander. On April 24 he got a probable Bf 109, on May 9 destroyed two Bf 109s and on June 3 he claimed a probable FW 190 over the Channel. On July 18 1942 Humphrey returned to 58 OTU, went for a course at 2 FIS on September 2, after which he returned to Grangemouth until the end of 1942, when he was awarded the AFC (1.1.43). He was attached to Specialised Low-Level Attack Instructors’ School at Milfield, for a course. Humphrey was posted to the Middle East on April 12 1943, as a Specialised Low Attack Instructor. He joined 6 Squadron in the Canal Zone and converted it to rockets. When the squadron was fully operational again, Humphrey went to No 5 Middle East Training School at Shallufa, as an instructor, responsible for rocket-training of Hurricane and Beaufighter pilots. He later carried out similar duties in Cyprus and India. For this work, Humphrey was awarded a Bar to the AFC (1.1.45). He finished the war in the Far East. Humphrey had a long and distinguished career in the post-war RAF. He was an instructor at the RAF Flying College, Manby and in 1953 broke the Cape Town to London record flying a Canberra. The following year, in the same aircraft, he made the first RAF jet flight to the North Pole. He served at the Air Ministry and was OC RAF Akrotiri, Cyprus. Later he was Air Officer Commanding Middle East and Commanderin-Chief, Strike Command. Humphrey was made an OBE (1.1.51), was awarded a second Bar to the AFC (9.6.55) and created a CB (1959), KCB (1968) and GCB (1974). Humphrey was Chief of Air Staff from 1974 to 1976, became a Marshal of the RAF in August 1976 and Chief of the Defence Staff in October that year. He was Air ADC to the Queen. He died on January 24 1977 at the RAF Hospital, Halton, having been taken ill while visiting the RAF in Germany. A memorial service was held in Westminster Abbey on March 18 1977. PO 30.4.40 FO 1.5.41 FL 1.5.42 SL 20.2.45 WC 1.7.51 AVM 1.1.65 AM 1.1.69 ACM 1.12.70 MRAF 6.8.76

GC 1.7.57

AC 1.7.62

JACK DAVID HUMPHREYS 41419

FO

Pilot

British

29 Squadron APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39

Humphreys was born in October 1919 and was at Uppingham School from 1933 to 1935. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 6 1938, as a pupil pilot.

FO 6.11.40

PETER CECIL HUMPHREYS 85272

He joined 29 Squadron at Debden on September 10 1939. He was detached to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on October 2 for advanced training. Humphreys was again detached to 12 Group Pool on November 29 1939, this time for instructor duties. On June 18 1940 he destroyed a He 111 just before midnight, off the coast of Norfolk. Humphreys was flying one of the Blenheims attacked by Hurricanes of 312 Squadron on October 13 1940. Although damaged, he returned to base at Ternhill. In late July 1941 he attacked and probably destroyed a He 111 over the East Coast. Humphreys was awarded the DFC (21.10.41) and posted to 51 OTU at Cranfield, as an instructor. Humphreys was killed on August 2 1942 as an Acting Squadron Leader with 605 Squadron. He is buried in Putney Vale Cemetery, Putney Heath, London.

PO

Pilot

British

32 Squadron

Humphreys joined the RAFVR about April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745610). Called up on September 1, he completed his elementary training at 18 EFTS, Fair Oaks and his intermediate and advanced training at 5 FTS, Sealand. He was commissioned at the end of the course and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 26 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 32 Squadron at Acklington on October 18. Humphreys was posted to 73 Squadron at Castle Camps on November 5 1940 and went with it to the Middle East. Humphreys was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He later went to live in Spain.

APO 14.12.38 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

PO 25.9.40 FO 22.9.41 FL 22.9.42

JAMES SAMUEL HUMPHREYS

PETER HARRY HUMPHREYS

41928

84961

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

FL 6.11.41

605 Squadron

Born in Greymouth on November 13 1918, Humphreys was at Christ’s College, Christchurch from 1932 to 1935. In 1936 he went to work in the Government Audit Office in Wellington.

PO

Pilot

British

152 Squadron

Humphreys, of Lymington, joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754083). Called up on September 1, he completed his elementary training at 18 EFTS, Fair Oaks and his intermediate and advanced training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 49 Course, which ran from June 16 to September 7 1940.

After joining the Civil Reserve of Pilots in February 1938, Humphreys applied for a short service commission in the RAF. Provisionally accepted, he sailed for the UK on November 19 in the RMS Rangitiki. Humphreys began his ab initio course at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty on December 28 1938. He went to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on April 29 1939 and began his intermediate training on Ansons. With the course completed, he joined the newly-formed 245 Squadron at Leconfield on November 6 1939. In early May 1940 Humphreys volunteered for France and he left 245 for Manston on May 13 and he joined 607 Squadron at Vitry-en-Artois the same day. On the 14th he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged a Hs 126, on the 17th he destroyed a Do 17, on the 18th he damaged a Bf 109 and on the 19th he destroyed a Ju 88. After a period of hectic fighting and heavy losses, the squadron withdrew to Croydon on May 21. Humphreys was posted to 605 Squadron at Hawkinge a week later and joined it at Drem on the 29th.

He was commissioned and after converting to Spitfires at 7 OTU, Hawarden, he joined 152 Squadron at Warmwell on September 29. Humphreys was posted to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill in the Spring of 1941. On November 3 1941 he flew to the Middle East in a Sunderland, to join 112 Squadron at Sidi Heneish, as a Flight Commander. On November 25 he destroyed a CR 42 and probably a Bf 109, on December 4 he damaged a Bf 109 and on February 8 1942 he shared in the destruction of a Bf 109. After completing his tour in April 1942, Humphreys was posted to the Fighter School at El Ballah on the 24th, as an instructor. He returned to operations in early 1943, when he rejoined 92 Squadron at Castel Benito, as a Flight Commander. Humphreys destroyed a Bf 109 on March 7, on the 10th he damaged another and on the 30th he damaged a Me 210. He took command of the squadron on May 6, led it to

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Hunt retired from the RAF on October 1 1958 as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. He died in 1997.

Malta in June and then on to Sicily and Italy. He was awarded the DFC (1.10.43), being then credited with two enemy aircraft destroyed with the squadron. Posted away in November 1943, Humphreys was given command of 111 Squadron at Lago, Italy in April 1944. He returned to the UK in November 1944. He was Station Commander at RAF Castle Bromwich in 1946 and afterwards served on the staff of HQ 12 Group, Nottingham. On November 11 1947 Humphreys went as a passenger in one of six Lancasters of 115 Squadron taking part in a fighter affiliation exercise, to observe mock attacks. A Hornet, PX 284, of 19 Squadron, making an attack on the rear Lancaster, misjudged the breakaway and struck Humphreys’ aircraft, which was flying second to last on the starboard side. Part of the Hornet’s port wing broke off and it fell away out of control, crashing at Stanford, Norfolk. The Lancaster, TW 647, went into a shallow dive, which steadily increased. The nose broke off behind the pilot’s seat, throwing him clear and he opened his parachute. The other five men aboard were killed, as was the Hornet pilot. Humphreys was 27. He was cremated at Bournemouth Crematorium.

PO 11.11.41

FO 1.10.42 FL 10.11.43

82656

PO

Pilot

British

Pilot

British

504 Squadron

Hunt was the son of parents from Regina, Saskatchewan and he lived in Canada at some time in his life. He was in England in 1938 and joined the RAFVR in August, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741953). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training, arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 3 1940, was commissioned on the 9th and, after converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 263 Squadron at Drem on June 23 1940. Hunt moved to 504 Squadron at Castletown on July 11 1940 and was still with it when he was killed on May 13 1941. He was 22 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 33.

DAVID WALTER HUNT PO

SL 1.1.51

HENRY NORMAN HUNT

PO 7.9.40 FO 7.9.41 FL 7.9.42 SL 20.6.45 SL 1.9.45

42754

FL 1.9.45

257 Squadron

Born in Wolverhampton on August 26 1919, Hunt joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying at 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick on August 8 1939, as a pupil pilot.

PO 9.6.40

ALASTAIR STUART HUNTER 90222

He went to 3 ITW, Hastings on October 6 and on the 25th he was posted to 11 FTS, Shawbury, for intermediate and advanced training. Hunt joined 257 Squadron direct from FTS on May 17 1940 at Hendon, where it was reforming. The squadron became operational on July 1 and moved to Northolt three days later. On August 18 Hunt probably destroyed a Ju 87 and on the 31st he damaged a Bf 110. He was shot down by enemy fighters on September 3 and baled out, severely burned, landing near Brook Farm, Margretting. Taken to Billericay Hospital, Hunt later went to the Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, where he underwent plastic surgery by Archie McIndoe and became a Guinea Pig. After nearly a year Hunt was posted as Officer i/c Hornchurch Detachment of 11 Group Flight. The unit had a Hurricane, which he flew, a Lysander and a Blenheim. It was engaged on calibration of radar, searchlights and anti-aircraft defences, which involved flying on set courses at known heights and speeds, to co-ordinate the defence systems. Hunt was posted away in October 1943 and appointed Station Adjutant at RAF, Aberporth. He was released from the RAF in September 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He later went to live in New Zealand and died there in 2002.

Pilot

British

On December 12 1940 Hunter probably destroyed a Ju 88 in the late evening, near Hungerford. On the 20th he went to No 1 Blind Approach School at Watchfield, for No 9 Course, which he completed on January 4 1941 and then rejoined 604. Hunter took off in the dark, in a Beaufighter, for a belated air test on February 6 1941. He spun in as he approached to land and both he and his radar operator, Pilot Officer T Genney, were killed. Hunter was 24. He is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Hatfield Peverel. PO (AAF) 17.4.37 FO (AAF) 17.10.38 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40

DOUGLAS JOHN HUNTER Sgt

Air Gunner

Sgt

Pilot

British

29 Squadron

FO 11.5.41 FL 11.5.42 Hunter joined 601 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand (801428). Called up on August 24 1939, he remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner, completed his training and was with 29 Squadron at Digby in June 1940.

DOUGLAS ALFRED CHARLES HUNT 111976

604 Squadron

Hunter joined 604 Squadron, AAF in 1937 and was called to full-time service on August 24 1939. He shot a He 115 down into the sea near Dunkirk in the early hours of June 18 1940. It was 604’s first night victory.

101027 APO 9.10.39 PO 11.5.40

FL

British

66 Squadron

Born on June 1 1918, Hunt was educated at Kingswood Grammar School, Bristol. He started as an apprentice at the Bristol Aeroplane Co in September 1934, in aero engine fitting and testing, and got his technical qualifications over five years at the Merchant Venturers Technical College, Bristol.

He flew with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain and in early November 1940 he was still flying as an Air Gunner. However, by December 22 he had retrained as a radar operator. On the 24th, flying with Flying Officer C V Winn, their aircraft was shot down by a German fighter. Hunter was in hospital for two weeks before rejoining the squadron. Commissioned in June 1941, Hunter was later with 89 Squadron in Egypt and Malta. In early January 1943 he went with a detachment of 89 Squadron to India, which formed the nucleus of 176 Squadron, formed at Dum Dum on January 14 1943, equipped with Beaufighters. The squadron’s ground personnel arrived later by sea from the UK. In August 1943, 176 Squadron moved to Chittagong in Burma. Hunter left the squadron in early 1945 and returned to the UK. He became Navigation Officer at RAF Hunsdon. Hunter was released from the RAF in 1947 as a Flight Lieutenant, and went farming. He died in July 1984.

In August 1937 Hunt joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740548), carried out his week-end flying training at 2 E&RFTS, Filton and was awarded his flying badge in November 1938. He was called to full-time service on September 3 1939 and attached to the FAA at Donibristle, where he did a decklanding course in Gladiators on the carrier HMS Furious. On October 30 Hunt went to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down, converted to Spitfires and joined 66 Squadron at Duxford on December 16. On January 11 1940 Hunt shared in the destruction of a He 111 off Cromer. On June 2, on an early morning patrol over Dunkirk, Hunt was hit by return fire from a Ju 88 and baled out. He was taken to Dunkirk by the French, handed over to the British and taken out by launch to a destroyer, which arrived in Dover at 2.00 am the next morning. On August 31 1940 Hunt shared in destroying a Do 17, on September 2 and 11 he shared He 111s and on the 15th claimed a He 111 destroyed and another damaged. Hunt remained with 66 until October 1941, when he went to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course. Commissioned in November 1941, he was on the staff of a number of flying schools, 5 FTS, Sealand; CFS, Upavon; 7 FIS, Upavon and 3 FIS, Castle Coombe and Lulsgate Bottom. In January 1946 Hunt did a four months course at the Empire Test Pilots’ School at Cranfield and then went to the RAE, Farnborough, as a test pilot.

PO 24.6.41 FO 24.6.42 FL 24.6.43

PHILIP ALGERNON HUNTER 32081

SL

Pilot British

264 Squadron

Hunter, was born in Frimley, Surrey in 1913. He was educated at King’s School, Canterbury; Rosslyn House, Felixstowe and Bishop’s Stortford School. He joined the RAF on a short service commission in September 1931, carrying out his ab initio course at 5 FTS, Sealand.

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In Aden in 1936, Hurry applied for pilot training and was selected in 1938. He did his ab initio course at 2 E&RFTS, Filton and then went on to 6 FTS, Little Rissington. In 1939, with his training completed, Hurry went to the Air Observers’School at Acklington, as a staff pilot at the Gunnery School. After the war started, he did a gunnery course at Warmwell. He arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on December 28 1939, converted to Hurricanes and joined 43 Squadron at Acklington in January 1940. On August 8 1940 Hurry probably destroyed two Ju 87s and damaged three others and on September 5 and 6 Hurry claimed Bf 109s destroyed. On the 11th he joined 46 Squadron at Stapleford Tawney. He claimed a Do 17 destroyed on the 15th and three days later he was shot down and baled out, with bullet wounds in the leg and burned on the face and hands. Hurry was admitted to Chatham Hospital and afterwards went to Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead for plastic surgery, where he became one of Archie McIndoe’s Guinea Pigs. Fit again, Hurry was posted to Brough for an Air Traffic Controller’s course, after which he went to North Weald, as Duty Pilot. Later in 1941 he did an instructors’ course at Perth and was posted to the staff of EFTS, Wolverhampton, moving later to EFTS, Carlisle. Commissioned in March 1942, Hurry joined the Communications Squadron at Northolt and flew as personal pilot to Air Chief Marshal Sir Roderic Hill until the end of the war. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.46). Hurry was released in January 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. After running his own businesses in Britain, he went to live in Canada in 1970. He died there in 1995.

Hunter joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge on August 29 1932. He was posted to Ismailia on February 28 1933, to join 6 Squadron. Back in the UK in 1936, he was granted a Permanent Commission on September 11 1936 and posted to the staff at RAF College, Cranwell on November 9. He moved to the staff at CFS, Upavon on March 24 1937. Hunter commanded 254 Squadron from its reformation at Stradishall on October 30 1939 until January 28 1940. It was a Coastal Command squadron, with Blenheim 1Fs. He arrived at RAF Digby on March 5 1940, for Ops duties, but on March 24 Hunter joined 264 Squadron at Martlesham Heath, as CO. He was detached to AFDU, Northolt on April 1, for a short course. With LAC F H King as his gunner, he had a run of successes in May 1940. On the 12th they shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 S of The Hague, on the 27th destroyed a Bf 109 and shared a He 111 over Dunkirk, on the 28th destroyed two Bf 109s, on the 29th destroyed a Bf 109, a Bf 110 and shared a Ju 88 and on the 31st destroyed a Bf 109 and a He 111 and damaged another He 111. Hunter was awarded the DSO (14.6.40). Hunter relinquished command of 264 Squadron on August 19 1940, to join the Air Staff. At his own request he stayed with the squadron, on attachment, ‘to see that his successor was thoroughly instated’. On August 24 Hunter’s Defiant, N 1535, was last seen in pursuit of Ju 88s, following an attack on Manston. He and King were not seen or heard from again. Hunter was 27 years old and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 4. PO 11.9.31 FO 11.4.33 FL 11.4.36 SL 1.12.38

PO 7.3.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 7.3.44

JOHN HUNTER HUNTER-TOD 77424

FO

British

23 and 600 Squadrons

PETER RICHARD SCOTT HURST 41421

Born on August 21 1917, Hunter-Tod was educated at Marlborough College and Trinity College, Cambridge, where he obtained a degree in Mathematics. He was commissioned in the Administrative and Special Duties Branch in late January 1940 and transferred to the Technical Branch on April 24 1940, when this new branch was created.

SL 1.8.47

WC 1.7.52

Sgt

Pilot

British

600 Squadron

APO 14.12.38 PO 3.9.39

DAVID ALEXANDER HUTCHISON Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

Pilot British

74 and 804 Squadrons

Hutchison carried out his elementary flying training at 24 EFTS, Sydenham and afterwards moved on to No 1 FTS, Leuchars for No 8 Course, which ran from January 15 to June 22 1940. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 25th, to convert to Spitfires. On the 29th he was attached to the RAF and joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on July 6. Hutchison was posted away from 74 on July 20, going to 760 Squadron at Eastleigh. 760 was the Fleet Fighter Pool, where he would have received his first fleet-fighter training before joining 804 Squadron at Hatston on August 30, flying Gladiators on dockyard defence. On December 9 1940 Hutchison joined 802 Squadron, then forming at Donibristle, for service on the first escort carrier HMS Audacity. In September 1941 he was with the carrier, which carried six Martlets. She sailed for Gibraltar on October 29, escorting convoy HG 76. On the 30th two Kondors were sighted by Sub-Lieutenant R R Lamb during a patrol. One of them escaped into cloud after he attacked it. Hutchison and 802’s CO, LieutenantCommander Wintour, intercepted the second one and attacked. Wintour was killed by the Kondor‘s upper gunner, when he went too close, thinking the Germans were finished. Hutchison then attacked again and shot the Kondor down. He was awarded the DSC (10.3.42) for this action. He was killed on November 15 1942 in HMS Avenger, sunk whilst returning from North Africa. He was 23. His name is on the Fleet Air Arm Memorial, Lee-on-Solent.

GC 1.1.58

CHARLES ALEXANDER LYALL HURRY 48324

British

He completed his flying training about the time war broke out. It is not known to what duties he went but he arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 17 1940. After converting to Blenheims, he joined 600 Squadron at Redhill in early September and made his first flight with it on the 15th. During a practice flight in cloud on October 23, he crashed into a hill at Kirkby-byMalzeard, Yorkshire, in Blenheim L 1272, and was killed. He was 20 and is buried in Catterick Cemetery.

and July 31. The AI equipment was still in its very early stages and few contacts were made and although some enemy aircraft were intercepted and damaged during the period of the Battle, there were no confirmed victories. From August 8 to 13 Hunter-Tod was attached to RAF Digby for signals duties. He flew one further operational sortie with 23 Squadron, on August 23, being then posted to Signals, Fighter Command on the 26th. He flew a sortie with 600 Squadron from Redhill on October 1 and he also flew sorties with 219 Squadron at Redhill, in November, whilst still on the staff of Fighter Command. On December 16 1940 Hunter-Tod joined HQ 12 Group, for AI duties. He flew an operational sortie with 25 Squadron on January 9 1941. He was formally attached to 25 on March 8 from HQ 12 Group and he went between 12 Group and 25 Squadron. In the late evening of May 4 1941 Hunter-Tod was flying in a Beaufighter of 25 Squadron, piloted by Wing Commander D F W Atcherley. They shot down a Ju 88, which crashed into a public house at Eastgate, near Bourne, Lincolnshire, killing four civilians and three soldiers. In the early hours of June 18 they shot down another Ju 88, off Sheringham. Hunter-Tod served in the Middle East later in the war. He held a series of technical appointments and commands in the post-war RAF. He was made an OBE (1957), a CB (14.6.69) and created a KBE (1.1.71). He retired on April 30 1973 as an Air Marshal. He died on May 11 2000. SL 1.7.45

Pilot

Hurst, of Hampshire, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 6 1938. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on December 14 for a short induction course.

Hunter-Tod had joined 23 Squadron at Collyweston by mid-June 1940. He was the Squadron Radar Officer, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. He was responsible for the training of AI operators and because good ones were in short supply, he often flew operationally at night, qualifying for the Battle of Britain clasp. He flew sorties on June 19, 21 and 30

PO 30.1.40 FO 1.9.40 FL 1.3.42 AC 1.7.63 AVM 1.1.68 AM 1.1.71

PO

43 and 46 Squadrons

Born on March 24 1916, Hurry went to Heaton Technical School. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice (565576), on September 1 1931 and passed out in August 1934 as a Metal Rigger.

Midshipman 11.9.39 Actg Sub-Lt 14.3.40 Sub-Lt 20.9.40 Lt 1.3.42

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IAIN HUTCHINSON 102960

Sgt

Pilot

British

He was killed on December 10 1940, when he crashed at night at Tilbury Docks during an electrical storm, in Hurricane V 6674. Hutton was 25. He is buried in St Mary Redcliffe Cemetery, Bristol.

222 Squadron

Born in Glasgow on November 13 1918, Hutchinson joined the RAFVR in May 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741639). He began his flying training at 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick on June 5 and flew there on Tiger Moths and Hawker Harts until September 1 1939, when he was called up.

JOSEF EMIL HYBLER 82551

PO

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

310 Squadron

Born on September 18 1913 in Prague, Hybler joined the Czech Air Force at Prostejov on September 29 1932. He trained as an observer, serving in 2/1 and 1/1 Squadrons from June 1 1933 to September 1935. He then went to the Military Academy until July 1937. He had his civilian flying licence before he began military pilot training on August 1 1937.

Hutchinson went to 12 FTS, Grantham on October 1 1939, completed a course of advanced training on December 22 and then joined 236 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on January 6 1940. On February 9 he was posted to 222 Squadron at Duxford, then equipped with Blenheim Mk Is. The squadron reequipped with Spitfires in March and moved to Hornchurch in late May. On August 30 Hutchinson’s aircraft was damaged in combat and he made a forcedlanding at Damyns Hall Farm, Rainham, unhurt. Hutchinson damaged a Bf 109 on the 31st, damaged a Bf 110 on September 3, destroyed Bf 109s on the 6th and 7th, probably destroyed a He 111 on the 11th and on the 14th he destroyed another Bf 109. After this combat he made a forced-landing at Detling, following damage by Bf 109s. On the 18th Hutchinson baled out, slightly wounded, after a combat over Canterbury and landed at Molash. His Spitfire, R 6722, crashed and burned out at Clock House Farm, Challock. Following an action over South-West London on the 30th, Hutchinson again made a forced-landing, this time at Denham, wounded. He was posted to No 3 School of General Reconnaissance on January 16 1941, was commissioned in August and remained there until January 13 1942, when he went to No 1 PRU, Benson, moving on to No 2 PRU, Leuchars on March 21 1942. At some time Hutchinson was shot down and captured by the Germans, possibly on a reconnaissance operation over Norway. He was held in Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 163) at Sagan and Belaria. Hutchinson was released from the RAF after the war but was commissioned in the RAFVR on January 11 1947 and posted to the Glasgow University Air Squadron, as an instructor. He rejoined the RAF in April 1948, in the General Duties Branch. He remained with the Glasgow University Air Squadron until June 13 1949 and during his time with it he studied for and graduated with a B Sc from the University. Over the following years Hutchinson held a series of appointments and completed a course at Staff College in 1954. His final posting was to Air Ministry, Operational Requirements. He retired on December 1 1957 as a Squadron Leader. After retirement Hutchinson worked in the UK for the Atomic EnergyAuthority and the international organisation in Vienna. He died on April 27 2007.

In March 1938 he was posted to III/4 Fighter Squadron of the 4th Regiment at Pardubice. After the Germans entered Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939, Hybler was demobilised two days later. He escaped to Cracow, Poland in June 1939 and in midAugust he arrived in France. After joining l’Armée de l’Air, he was posted to Chartres on October 10, to train on French aircraft. On May 10 1940 Hybler joined Groupe de Chasse II/2 at Laon. The unit retreated via Paris and Chateaudun and ended up at Chissey. After the French collapse, Hybler flew south. He left his aircraft at Montpellier and on June 20 went by coach to Port Vendres and boarded a ship for Oran. Hybler went by train from Oran to Casablanca, got on a ship to Gibraltar and then sailed in a convoy to Liverpool, arriving there on July 12. He went to No 4 Wing at 2 S of TT, Cosford, which was redesignated the RAF Czechoslovak Depot on August 3 1940. Hybler was commissioned in the RAFVR on August 2 and on September 28 he was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, to convert to Hurricanes. He joined 310 Squadron at Duxford on October 15. He stayed with the squadron until April 28 1942, when he was posted to 234 Squadron at Portreath. He moved to 286 Squadron on September 14 and then went to 57 OTU, Eshott, as an instructor. He was posted to RAF Coltishall, on Flying Control, on January 10 1944. Hybler remained on control duties, at Fairwood Common, Castle Camps and other stations before his release in August 1945, when he returned to Czechoslovakia. He rejoined the Czech Air Force but was dismissed in the 1948 Communist Putsch. Arrested in 1949, Hybler was tried and sentenced to 20 years imprisonment. He was released in 1960 and was allowed to do only menial jobs until 1966, when he became a teacher of languages. In 1968 Hybler went to England. The Russians marched into Czechoslovakia and he did not go back. He settled in England and became a technical author for Lucas Industries. Hybler died on January 9 1984. He is buried in Brookwood Cemetery.

PO 5.8.41 FO 5.8.42 FL 5.8.43 FO 11.1.47 FL 5.4.48 SL 1.1.55 PO 2.8.40 FO 27.12.40 FL 27.12.41

RICHARD RALPH HUTLEY 84323

PO

Pilot

British

GEORGE GORDON HYDE

32 and 213 Squadrons

C 948

FO

Pilot

Canadian

1 (RCAF) Squadron

Hutley joined the RAFVR about November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742627). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at FTS on August 23 1940, was commissioned next day and went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum.

Hyde was born on February 11 1914 in Montreal. He joined the RCAF on September 1 1938 and was with No 1 (RCAF) Squadron, when it arrived in the UK on June 20 1940.

Possibly, Hutley volunteered for Fighter Command and he arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 4 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 32 Squadron at Acklington on the 21st. He joined 213 Squadron at Tangmere on October 26. Hutley flew his first operational sortie with 213 on the 27th, patrol base and Selsey Bill. On the 29th he was involved in a collision with Pilot Officer T R Thomson off Selsey, in Hurricane V 7622. Hutley baled out and was picked up, unconscious, by the Selsey lifeboat. All efforts to revive him failed. He was 22 and is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Tangmere.

Hyde was detached to RAF, Uxbridge on July 10, for a short R/T procedure course. He was shot down in combat with Bf 109s on August 31 and baled out, with burns. His Hurricane P 2971, crashed near Staplehurst. He was posted to 112 (RCAF) Squadron, a holding unit, on September 2, as non-effective sick. Hyde was discharged from hospital on the 7th and after convalescence he returned to No 1 (RCAF) for duty on October 2. Hyde was posted to 2 (RCAF) Squadron on January 2 1941. The unit was renumbered 402 Squadron on March 1 1941. Hyde was killed in a flying accident on May 17 as a Flight Lieutenant with 402. He is buried in Scopwick Burial Ground, Lincolnshire.

PO 24.8.40

JOHN WOOLARD HYDE 104766

ROBERT SCOTT HUTTON 754874

Sgt

Pilot

British

Sgt

Pilot

British

229 Squadron

85 Squadron Born on May 1 1913 at Wimbledon, Hyde moved with his family to Farnham, Surrey in 1916. He was educated at Elmsleigh Preparatory School and later at Chichester. Hyde joined the family business but later took up motor engineering.

Hutton, of Shirehampton, Bristol, joined the RAFVR about August 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 1 1940.

In September 1934 he joined Class ‘F’ of the RAF Reserve, as an Airman u/t Pilot (700181).

He converted to Hurricanes and joined 85 Squadron at Church Fenton on September 16.

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He went on a three month course to 3 E&RFTS, Hamble, where he logged the required 50 hours. Hyde continued with his civilian job, going annually to a fortnight’s camp at Filton, for flying and ground lectures. He transferred to the RAFVR (740944) in late 1937, going to Tottenham Court Road, London for evening lectures and 18 E&RFTS, Fair Oaks for flying. Awarded his wings in August 1939, Hyde was called up on September 1. He went to 10 FTS, Ternhill on the 13th for assessment, after which he was on No 13 Course at Ternhill, for advanced training only. On November 6 1939 he joined 266 Squadron at Sutton Bridge, moving to 229 Squadron at Northolt on the 26th. Hyde served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. On September 11 1940 he shared in the destruction of a He 111 and on October 6 he damaged a Ju 88. After completing his tour, he was posted to 52 OTU, Debden on February 21 1941, as an instructor. Commissioned in August 1941, Hyde went to RAF Wilmslow on the 26th for overseas. He landed at Takoradi on October 25 and moved to 71 OTU, Gordon’s Tree, Sudan on November 1, as an instructor. On March 11 1942 Hyde was at HQ 306 Group, Heliopolis for posting and was sent to Salisbury, Southern Rhodesia. From mid-May 1942 Hyde did a CFS course at 33 FIS, Belvedere, after which he joined the staff at 24 CAOS, Moffat, Southern Rhodesia, remaining there until late September 1942, when he returned to the UK. Hyde went into Flying Control. He was at 4 Gliding Training School, Kidlington from December 1942 to early March 1943 and after a brief spell at No 1 Heavy Glider Conversion Unit at Brize Norton, he joined the control staff at 6 (Coastal) OTU, Silloth. He was released from the RAF in late 1945 as a Flying Officer.

probably converting to Spitfires. He was posted to 66 Squadron at Duxford on December 8 1939 and joined the squadron on the 16th. On July 11 1940 Hyde damaged a Do 17. On the 18th he reported to RAF Uxbridge and joined a group of pilots, which ultimately became 418 Flight. They collected Hurricanes from the MU at Hullavington and flew them to Abbotsinch. The wings were removed and the aircraft were loaded on to the carrier HMS Argus, which sailed on July 23. They flew off for Malta on August 2 and landed safely at Luqa, with the exception of one which crashed on landing. On the 16th 418 Flight was incorporated into the newlyformed 261 Squadron. Hyde was in ‘B’ Flight. On September 8 he destroyed two CR 42s and on October 4 a Mc 200.in the period January 16 to 19 1941 he destroyed a Ju 88 and possibly other enemy aircraft. On April 22 1941 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and damaged another. Records in Malta over this period are virtually non-existent. When 261 Squadron added an Intelligence Officer to its establishment, he went through the scrappy paperwork done prior to his arrival. Hyde was credited with five enemy aircraft destroyed, seven probably destroyed and others damaged. As well as flying Hurricanes, he also flew in the three Gladiators, ‘Faith’, ‘Hope’ and ‘Charity’. When 261 was disbanded in early May, Hyde returned to the UK and was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as an instructor. Promoted to Warrant Officer on October 1, he was recommended for the DFM but instead received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.42). Commissioned in January 1942, Hyde moved to 55 OTU, Aston Down in April. He returned to operations in early December, joining the newly-formed 197 Squadron at Drem. He left the squadron in October 1943 and then spent three months flying Gladiators for the film ‘Signed with their Honour’, set in Greece in 1941. In February 1944 Hyde went to CGS, Sutton Bridge on a course, at the end of which he was posted to 3 Tactical Exercise Unit at Annan. He was appointed OC Gunnery and Rocket Squadron at 62 OTU, Newcastle in July 1944, as an Acting Wing Commander. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.45) and in February transferred to the RNZAF (Officer No 2440). Hyde was posted to 59 OTU, Acklington as OC Flying in early March 1945 and recommended for an OBE but instead received a second Mention in Despatches (1.6.45). In June he went as OC Flying to the Tactical Exercise Unit at Milfield. He returned to New Zealand on September 17 and went on to the Reserve at the end of December 1945. Hyde started an electrical business in Christchurch and ran it for many years. He died on March 23 1985.

PO 16.8.41 FO 16.8.42

REGINALD JACK HYDE 115301

Sgt

Pilot

New Zealander

66 Squadron

Hyde was born in Islington, Canterbury on December 21 1912. He trained as an electrician and in 1936 went to the UK to gain further experience. He began taking flying lessons at the Cambridge Aero Club. On July 23 1938 he joined the RAFVR (741834) and trained at weekends at 15 E&RFTS, Redhill. In May 1939 Hyde was accepted for six months full-time training with the RAF and at the outbreak of war he had almost completed his training. He was loaned to 769 (FAA) Squadron at Donibristle, where he flew Gladiators and Swordfishes and practised landings on the carrier HMS Furious. Hyde went to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on October 30 1939, for further training,

PO 18.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 19.1.44 SL 29.12.45

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I NORMAN LANCELOT IEVERS 37812

FL

Pilot

Irish

Commissioned in February 1943, Igglesden was released in Australia on March 30 1946 from HMS Golden Hind, having served as a Fighter Director Officer.

312 Squadron

APO 24.8.36 Lt 30.12.43

Ievers was born in Patrickswell, County Limerick, Ireland in 1912. When he was eight the family moved to County Wicklow and he attended a boarding school in Bray, moving to Campbell College, in Belfast. There he excelled at rugby.

751235

British

Sub-Lt 19.8.43

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

600 Squadron

No further service details traced.

ALEC INGLE 83980

PO

Pilot

British

605 Squadron

Born on February 8 1916, Ingle joined the RAFVR about June 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740349) and did his elementary flying training at 4 E&RFTS, Brough. Called up at the outbreak of war, he completed ITW and was posted to 14 FTS, Kinloss on February 5 1940. Ingle finished the course, was commissioned and he joined 605 Squadron at Drem on June 19, direct from FTS. In early September the squadron moved to Croydon. On the 8th Ingle probably destroyed a Do 17, on October 12 he destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 26th and 27th he probably destroyed two more. On the 27th his aircraft was damaged in combat with Bf 109s and he made a forced-landing at Sewells Farm, Barcombe, with cuts to the face. Ingle was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on October 15 1940 and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on the 27th. On November 8 he damaged a Bf 109 and on the 11th he destroyed another. On December 1 he was shot down and baled out at Hollingbourne, from Hurricane V 7609, with a slight leg wound. In July 1941 Ingle was posted to 59 OTU, Crosby-on-Eden, as an instructor. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.43) and returned to operations on May 5 1943, when he took command of 609 Squadron at Manston. Awarded the DFC (17.8.43), Ingle was promoted to lead 124 Wing on August 18. He was shot down near Aumale, France on September 11 1943, whilst leading the Wing in an attack on Beauvais-Tille airfield. His Typhoon blew up in combat with FW 190s. Ingle could not get out. The aircraft disintegrated within 300 feet of the ground and he was flung out and his parachute opened just in time. Although burned, he stayed free for a few hours but was forced to give himself up to get medical attention. Ingle was in Stalag Luft 3 and later in Stalag 1 (PoW No 2917). Freed by the Russians in May 1945, Ingle stayed on in the RAF. He held a series of appointments and commands, both home and overseas, and attended RAF Staff College in 1947.

CHARLES PATRICK IGGLESDEN Pilot

Acting Sub-Lt 19.2.43

Imray joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1, he completed his gunnery training and was with 600 Squadron at Northolt by June 5 1940.

APO 4.5.36 PO 9.3.37 FO 9.10.38 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

FO

FO 24.10.39

HORACE STANLEY IMRAY

In 1930 he took up an engineering apprenticeship in Basingstoke. He spent more than four years with the company, completed the apprenticeship, but was later laid off. He worked on a farm in Hampshire. Ievers joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 9 1936. He was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on May 14, for intermediate and advanced training, and, with the course completed, he joined 56 Squadron at North Weald on December 25. He was posted away to 6 FTS, Netheravon on April 24 1939, as an instructor, and moved to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on September 17. On March 20 1940, whilst out testing a Hawker Hind, Ievers overturned the aircraft, making a forced-landing 2 miles E of Elgin. Both he and his passenger-pupil were unhurt. From September 17 1940, Ievers was instructing at No 1 FTS, Leuchars. On October 19 he joined 312 Squadron at Speke and he was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander next day. Ievers was posted away to 308 Squadron at Baginton on December 2 1940 and on the 16th he joined the High Altitude Flight at the A&AEE, Boscombe Down. On July 28 1941 he joined 257 Squadron at Coltishall, moved to 19 Squadron at Matlask on September 9 and was posted to the Middle East on November 3. Ievers took command of 80 Squadron in the Western Desert on the 13th. He was posted to the Air Staff, HQ Middle East on January 23 1942 and sailed for the Far East in mid-February in the SS Orestes, acting as OC Troops. Ievers served on the staffs at 221, 222 and 224 Groups and on August 20 1942 he was made Acting Station Commander at RAF Kanchrapara, India. He was posted to 320 MU, Karachi on February 20 1943. Ievers returned to the UK later in the year and was released from the RAF in 1944, as a Squadron Leader. He died on November 21 1993. An elder brother served in the RAF but was killed in a road accident in 1939.

39086

PO 29.6.37

234 Squadronn

Born on March 9 1918, Igglesden joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 29 1936. He was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose on September 5, and, with flying training completed, he joined 23 Squadron at Northolt on April 24 1937 and went to 64 Squadron at Church Fenton on May 15 1939. Igglesden moved to 234 Squadron at Leconfield on February 20 1940. Taken off flying duties on August 7, he resumed operations on October 22. He was posted to No 2 Delivery Flight, Colerne on June 28 1941. He resigned his commission on September 27 1941 and joined the Royal Navy, as an Able Seaman.

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

130 Squadron from October 1943 to February 1944, with Spitfire Vs and then 222 Squadron until June 1944, with Spitfire IXs. Inness was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader.

Ingle’s final post was as Deputy Director of Air Staff Plans and Policies at the Air Ministry and the Ministry of Defence. He retired on May 6 1966, as a Group Captain, having marched in Sir Winston Churchill’s funeral procession in the previous year. Ingle died in June 1999. PO 18.6.40 FO 21.1.41 FL 21.1.42 SL 19.11.43

APO 29.10.38 PO 25.7.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.44

SL 1.9.45 WC 1.1.52 GC 1.7.60

AUBREY RICHARD de LISLE INNISS 42005

PO

Pilot

British

236 Squadron

MICHAEL ROSCOE INGLE-FINCH 84328

PO

Pilot

British

151, 607 and 56 Squadrons

Born on November 21 1916 in Barbados, Inniss joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on January 30 1939.

Born at St Helens, Isle of Wight on June 17 1919, IngleFinch was at Harrow School from 1933 to 1937. He joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754219).

He moved on to 14 FTS, Kinloss for No 1 Course, which ran from May 13 to November 6 1939. Inniss joined 236 Squadron at Stradishall on November 8. He shared in the destruction of a He 111, which was out on a weather reconnaissance over the Atlantic, on September 23 1940. Posted away from 236 on July 21 1941, Inniss joined 248 Squadron in 1942. On November 29 he probably destroyed a Ju 88, on January 29 1943 he shared a Ju 88 and on March 10 he shared another. Awarded the DFC (9.7.43), he later commanded the squadron, as a Wing Commander. Inniss retired from the RAF on December 18 1957, as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. Inniss and his wife ran a pub for a time in the village of Sheepwash, North Devon. He died on January 30 2003 in Bridgetown, Barbados and is buried in the Military Cemetery at the Garrison, Needham Point. In 2008 he was depicted on a Barbados stamp.

Called up on September 1, he completed his training at FTS on August 30 1940. He was commissioned next day and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 1. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 151 Squadron at Digby on September 17 and on the 30th he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88. Ingle-Finch moved to 607 Squadron at Tangmere on October 3 and next day he shared in the probable destruction of a He 111, S of Beachy Head. His stay with 607 was short and he joined 56 Squadron at Boscombe Down on October 13. On a flight to Kidlington in the squadron Magister on November 16 1940, Ingle-Finch was injured when he crashed near Tidworth. He was admitted to Tidworth Military Hospital. Ingle-Finch was serving as a Flight Commander in 56 Squadron in 1942. At some time he was a test pilot at Short Bros and Harland and was awarded the AFC (1.1.43). In September 1943 Ingle-Finch took command of 175 Squadron at Lydd, a Typhoon fighter-bomber unit. He was awarded the DFC (25.7.44). He completed his tour with the squadron in November 1944 and was awarded a Bar to the DFC (23.1.45). Ingle-Finch was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Wing Commander. He died on February 1 1992.

APO 29. 4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41 SL 15.9.44 SL 1.9.45

MAURICE MILNE IRVING 90277

FO

Pilot

ROBERT ALEXANDER INNES Sgt

Pilot

British

607 Squadron

Irving, of Jesmond, Northumberland, was granted a commission in the AAF in March 1934, having already obtained his ‘A’ licence, and joined 607 Squadron at Usworth.

PO 31.8.40 FO 24.8.41 FL 24.8.42

63784

British

253 Squadron When his engagement ended in March 10 1939, he relinquished his AAF commission and was granted one in Class ‘A’ of the AAFRO. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939, rejoined 607 and flew with it to Merville on November 15. Irving was appointed Acting Adjutant 607 on March 14 1940. On May 15 he and Pilot Officer M R Mudie of 615 took off from Rosières at 05.00 hrs, to engage nine Do17s, that were attacking the aerodrome. After Mudie had to make a forced-landing at Bapaume, Irving engaged the Dorniers single-handedly. One bomber was shot down but not confirmed. Irving landed back at Rosières. He shared in destroying a Ju 88 on September 14 1940. He was shot down by Bf 109s E of Selsey on September 28. His Hurricane, R 4189, crashed into the Channel and he was reported ‘Missing’. Irving was 29. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 4.

Born on June 15 1918, Innes joined the RAFVR about August 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741972), and did his elementary flying training at 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 16 Course, from November 6 1939 to May 11 1940. Innes was posted directly to 253 Squadron at Kenley and had joined it by May 16. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on August 30, he damaged a Bf 110 on September 4, he shared in the destruction of a Do 17 and damaged two He 111s on the 11th and on September 15 he shared a Do 17 and damaged another. Innes crashed in Hurricane V 6736 on September 20, following an attack by Bf 109s over Maidstone. He crashed again during an interception patrol on October 11, in Hurricane L 1666, cause not known. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 off the coast of Essex on November 11 1940 and damaged another on December 1, near Maidstone. Commissioned in March 1941, Innes retired from the RAF on August 31 1961, as a Squadron Leader. He died on April 6 2005.

PO (AAF) 10.3.34 FO (AAF) 10.9.35 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40

LEWIS REGINALD ISAAC 748158

PO 5.3.41 FO 5.3.42 FL 5.3.43 FL 1.8.47

FO

Pilot

British

Pilot

British

64 Squadron

Isaac attended Llanelly Boys’ Grammar School, South Wales and became a prefect. He worked for Lloyd’s Bank in Llanelly and London and joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 9 FTS, Hullavington on No 17 Course, which ran from March 6 to June 29 1940.

RICHARD FREDERICK INNESS 41292

Sgt

152 Squadron

Inness was born in Calcutta on January 4 1918 and educated at Eton. Inness joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 29 1938, as a pupil pilot.

Isaac arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 6. On the 15th he crashed Spitfire N 3054 on the aerodrome but was unhurt. He joined 64 Squadron on July 27. Isaac was shot down and killed on August 5 1940, on his first operational sortie. He was flying at the rear of a formation of nine Spitfires, when Bf 109s made a surprise attack over the Channel. His

He was posted to 152 Squadron at Acklington on February 22 1940 but did not join it until March 4. He damaged a Bf 109 on July 25, destroyed a Bf 110 on August 13 and was slightly wounded in the action. On September 26 Inness shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 and destroyed a Bf 109 on the 27th. In early 1941 Inness was posted to 53 OTU, Heston, as an instructor. He commanded

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

Norway. The Lancasters were jumped by German fighters and Iveson’s aircraft was badly damaged, with his port inner engine set on fire and his tailplane and rudders riddled with bullets. His two air gunners and wireless operator had already baled out, when the fighters suddenly broke off the attack. Iveson managed to regain control of the stricken aircraft and landed at Sumburgh, Shetland. For this action, he was awarded the DFC (16.3.45), at the end of his second tour of operations. From the spring of 1945 he was seconded to BOAC Iveson left the RAF on July 12 1949, as a Flight Lieutenant. He later served in the RAuxAF and commanded a Light Anti-Aircraft Squadron. His post war career was in the fields of television and public relations. He produced programmes for Granada TV and worked for Littelwood Pools, British Airports Authority and the Rank Organisation. “Tony” Iveson was a long-serving Chairman of the Bomber Command Association. He died on November 5 2013. A memorial service was held at St Clement Danes on April 7 2014.

Spitfire, L 1029, crashed into the sea. He was 24 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 15. On October 21 2011 a plaque, in his memory, was unveiled at Coleg Sir Gâr, the successor establishment to Isaac’s school, by Lord Howard of Lympne, another former pupil.

DONALD WILLIAM ISHERWOOD 808410

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

29 Squadron

Isherwood enlisted on May 21 1939 in 608 Squadron, AAF at Thornaby, as an Aircrafthand. He was called up on August 24. Having remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner, he had some training and began flying on convoy patrols in the squadron’s Ansons.

PO 1.3.42 FO 1.11.42 FL 1.5.44 FL 11.4.48

On July 1 1940 he was posted to 29 Squadron from 5 B&GS, Jurby. His rank at that time was AC 2 but he was promoted to Sergeant on July 17, when he flew on his first operational sortie. Isherwood retrained as a Radio Observer when the squadron changed over to Beaufighters. On the night of May 8/9 1941 his aircraft was engaged in an action over Cap Gris Nez and he was severely wounded in one leg, resulting in its

REGINALD IVEY 122762

Pilot

British

British

248 Squadron

He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 10. After converting to Blenheims, he was posted to 248 Squadron at Dyce on June 20. Ivey made operational sorties with 248 throughout the period of the Battle of Britain. On November 18 1940 he attacked a Do 18 on the water at Nordfjord, Norway. He was posted away from 248 Squadron on December 7 1941 and was later posted to the Middle East, where he was serving with 252 Squadron in 1942. He was commissioned on May 2 1942 and on May 12 Ivey destroyed two Ju 52 transports and damaged another. He was awarded the DFC (19.5.44), serving as a Flight Lieutenant with 143 Squadron, a Coastal Command Beaufighter unit, based at Portreath. Ivey survived the war and he was listed in the London Gazette as coming off the Emergency List as a Flight Lieutenant w.e.f April 17 1959.

THOMAS CLIFFORD IVESON Sgt

Pilot

Ivey joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745323). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 9 FTS, Hullavington on No 16 Course, which ran from December 31 1939 to June 9 1940.

eventual amputation. Isherwood was discharged from the RAF on November 21 1941, as a Flight Sergeant. He died in 1996.

128539

Sgt

616 and 92 Squadrons

Born in York on September 11 1919, Iveson was educated at Archbishop Holgate’s Grammar School there. He joined the RAFVR about September 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742036). Called up on September 1 1939, he continued his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 45 Course, which began on December 1.

PO 2.5.42 FO 2.11.42 FL 2.5.44

Before completing the course, Iveson became noneffective sick with appendicitis on May 24 1940. He later joined No 48 Course and completed on August 10. He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 12th, converted to Spitfires and joined 616 Squadron on September 2. Iveson ditched in the North Sea 20 miles off Cromer on the 16th, after running out of fuel, pursuing a Ju 88 in Spitfire L 1036. He was picked up by an MTB and landed at Yarmouth. He was posted to 92 Squadron on October 11 1940. Commissioned in May 1942, Iveson did his second operational tour with Bomber Command. He joined 617 Squadron in 1944 and amongst other operations, he flew three sorties against the German battleship Tirpitz, including the one which resulted in her sinking in Troms Fjord on November 12 1944. On January 12 1945 Iveson took part in a raid on the submarine base at Bergen, in

T R IVEY No. unknown

Sgt

Pilot

British

616 Squadron

Ivey joined 616 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on October 6 1940, from 7 OTU, Hawarden. He went to 602 Squadron at Westhampnett on November 18 1940 and to 19 Squadron at Duxford on December 24 1940. This pilot has not appeared before on a list of Battle of Britain participants but because of the sad, sorry and incomplete state of 616 Squadron’s ORB in October 1940, it cannot be positively stated that he flew no operational sorties whilst he was with the squadron. For this reason he is included in this book, as a possible participant. After his arrival at Duxford on December 24 1940, there is no further mention of Ivey in the 19 Squadron ORB. No further service details traced.

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J DONALD MacFARLANE JACK

PETER FREDERICK JACKSON

90170

63790

FL

Pilot

British

602 Squadron

Sgt

Pilot

British

Jack was born on May 5 1914 at Brookfield, Renfrewshire and was educated at John Neilson Institute, Paisley. He joined 602 Squadron, AAF in 1936. He was called up on September 4 1939.

Jackson, of West Norwood, London, joined the RAFVR about October 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740790). Having reached the requisite standard of training, Jackson was given the opportunity to undergo full-time advanced flying training with the regular RAF.

He was with 602 throughout the Battle of Britain. He damaged a Ju 88 on July 9 1940, damaged a He 111 on August 14, claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on August 25, shared a probable Do 17 on October 7 and destroyed a Bf 109 on October 29. Jack was posted to the staff at HQ 13 Group on December 21 1940. In May 1941 he went to RAF Turnhouse, to re-form and command 123 Squadron. It flew convoy and shipping patrols in the Firth of Forth area and trained pilots from OTU before they were posted to squadrons in the south. On April 11 1942 the squadron went to the Middle East and, having no aircraft, it was attached initially to ADU in June and then to 274 Squadron in the Western Desert from early July. Part of 123 went to Iraq and Iran and the rest merged with 80 Squadron. Jack took command of 80 Squadron at El Bassa, Palestine on September 17 1942. The squadron moved to the Western Desert on October 12. Jack was posted away in February 1943, to the Air Staff of Air HQ Air Defence Eastern Mediterranean in Cairo. He was appointed Squadron Leader Flying 243 Wing, to take part in a proposed landing on Rhodes. In October 1943 he was appointed SASO at HQ 209 Group at Haifa. Jack took command of HQ 12 Sector at Port Said on August 19 1944. He returned to the UK in March 1945 and became Station Commander at RAF High Ercall in May. He was released from the RAF in September 1945, as a Wing Commander. Jack rejoined 602 Squadron in September 1946, as Adjutant, and served with it until March 1948. He died on September 22 2005 and was cremated at Clydebank Crematorium on the 29th. PO (AAF) 8.11.36 FO (AAF) 13.6.38 FL (AAFRO) 14.10.46

FO 4.9.39

FL 3.9.40

604 Squadron

After reporting to 11 Group Pool, St Athan, he was attached to 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on May 31 1939. It is not clear whether Jackson returned to civilian life but he was recorded in the 604 Squadron ORB as being on the squadron on September 1 1939, probably on attachment. He arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on the 2nd. After converting to Blenheims, he joined 604 Squadron at Hendon on September 13. Jackson served with 604 throughout the Battle of Britain. He damaged a Ju 88, caught in searchlights, on December 6 1940. This aircraft is believed to be one from 6/KG 27, which failed to return. When about to attack a Ju 88 on December 22, Jackson was fired on by its rear gunner and badly cut about the head and face. He ordered his AI operator to bale out and, in spite of his face being covered in blood and only being able to see with one eye, he returned to Middle Wallop without wireless aid and in poor visibility, and crash-landed, in Beaufighter R 2091. Jackson was awarded the DFM (14.1.41). During the night of April 8/9 1941 he damaged a He 111. He was commissioned on the 11th. On May 4/5 he shot down a Ju 88, which made a forced-landing at East Burton, Dorset. The crew of two were made PoW. On May 6/7 he attacked and damaged a He 111 off Portland Bill. This may have been an aircraft of II/KG 27, which made a crash-landing at Dinard in France. On May 29 1941 he went on an air-sea firing exercise to Chesil Beach, with Sergeant S N Hawke and a new Australian pilot. Whilst they were there, clouds came in from the sea and blanketed the Dorset hills. Instead of climbing above them, Jackson flew through and crashed into high ground. All three men were killed. Jackson was 22 and he was cremated at Golders Green Crematorium, Hendon. The CO of 604 wrote of Jackson, “I have only been in command of the squadron for three months but during that time I saw how loved Peter was by both Officers and all Ranks of the Squadron.” His portrait was drawn by Eric Kennington.

SL 1.12.41

PO 11.4.41

ARTHUR JACKSON 1050666

AC 2

Radar Operator

British

29 Squadron

HENRY JACOBS 78685

Jackson joined the RAFVR in June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. It is almost certain that he volunteered for flying duties and went to Yatesbury for a short radar course, after which he joined 29 Squadron on August 10.

PO

Air Gunner

British

600 and 219 Squadrons

Born on April 15 1907, Jacobs was granted a direct-entry commission in the RAFVR as an Air Gunner in March 1940. He completed his training and had joined 600 Squadron at Northolt by June 7 1940, making his first flight on the 11th, local flying.

Jackson was one of the crew of Blenheim L 6637, which was attacked in error by Hurricanes of 312 Squadron on October 13 1940. It crashed in flames off the Point of Aire, near the Morecambe Light. All three men on board were lost, Jackson, Sergeant R E Stevens, pilot, and Sergeant O K Sly, air gunner. Jackson was 29. He is buried in Mexborough Cemetery, Yorkshire.

Jacobs made six flights, or sorties, in June, fifteen in July, five in August and another twelve in September. At 00.40 hrs on September 16, flying with Squadron Leader C A Pritchard, Jacobs shot down a Ju 88 near Bexhill.

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Radar. He later joined the newly-formed Ground Controlled Approach Unit at Honiley, where he shared duties with a ‘Nobby’ Clarke, later to be world-famous as Arthur C Clarke, the author. James was released in October 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on September 27 2005 and was cremated at Aldershot Crematorium.

After making five more flights in October, he joined 219 Squadron at Redhill on October 18, when 600 left Redhill and 219 arrived there. He made his first sortie with 219 on October 29 and his next on November 1. With the advent of the Beaufighter and AI, he retrained as a Radio Observer and in early 1942 was Chief AI Instructor at 51 OTU, Cranfield. Jacobs flew with Flight Lieutenant J R D Braham, when the latter’s operator was away. On August 24/25 1942, Braham and Jacobs got a probable Ju 88 at night and on the 28/29th they destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged another. Jacobs was awarded the DFC (9.10.42). In early August 1943 Jacobs left Cranfield to join Braham in 141 Squadron at Wittering. During the night of the 9/10th they shot down a Bf 110, on the 17/18th they destroyed two more, on September 27/28 a Do 217 and on the 29/30th they destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged a Ju 88. Jacobs was awarded a Bar to the DFC (5.11.43). In February 1944 he was transferred to 2 Group, at Braham’s request, to assist in the work of night interdiction. Jacobs was awarded the AFC (3.4.45). He retired from the RAF on December 29 1958 as a Squadron Leader. He died on October 9 1978.

PO 10.2.42 FO 10.2.43 FL 10.2.44

ROBERT STUART SEYMOUR JAMES 581456

Sgt

Observer

British

248 Squadron

James joined the RAF about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer. He completed his training and joined 248 Squadron in Spring 1940. On May 31 he was attached to No 1 (C) OTU Silloth, and rejoined 248 then based at Dyce, on June 29 1940. James was killed on May 29 1942, as a Flight Sergeant, with 228 Squadron, a Coastal Command Sunderland unit, based at Oban. His aircraft crashed on landing. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 74.

PATRICK GERAINT JAMESON 37813

FL

Pilot

New Zealander

266 Squadron

APO 29.3.40 PO 29.5.40 FO 29.5.41 FL 29.5.42 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.7.52 Jameson was born in Wellington on November 10 1912. After leaving school, he was employed as an assurance clerk. In 1933 he learned to fly privately at Wellington Aero Club at Rongotai.

NORMAN JACOBSON 1050704 AC 2 Radar Operator British 29 Squadron Jacobson, of Grimsby, joined the RAFVR about June 1940. It is almost certain that he volunteered for flying duties and was sent to Yatesbury for a short radar course, after which he joined 29 Squadron at Digby in August, as a radar operator.

On January 7 1936 Jameson left for the UK, at his own expense in the SS Aorangi. On arrival, he applied for an RAF short service commission and was provisionally accepted. He began his elementary flying on March 9 1936 at No 1 E&RFTS at Hatfield, moved on to 8 FTS, Montrose on May 28 and with training completed, he joined 46 Squadron at Kenley in January 1937. Jameson became a Flight Commander in March 1939. In April 1940 the squadron prepared to go to France but was suddenly issued with Arctic clothing and sent to Scotland. Its Hurricanes were loaded on to the carrier HMS Glorious and they sailed for Norway on May 18, in company with HMS Furious, carrying 263 Squadron. The airfield at Skaanland was not able to take the Hurricanes until the 26th, so 46 Squadron returned in the carrier to Scapa Flow. On May 24 it sailed again and on the 26th the first flight took off but the surface at Skaanland was still too soft and two aircraft crashed on landing. Already airborne, Jameson was ordered to lead the rest of the squadron to Bardufoss. On May 28 he shared in destroying two Do 26s, moored in Rombaks Fiord, and on the 29th he destroyed a Ju 88. On June 7 263 Squadron flew its Gladiators on to the Glorious. It was considered impossible for the Hurricanes to land on without arrester gear and they were ordered to be destroyed. Having obtained naval permission, three Hurricanes, with sandbags fixed under their tailplanes, were led by Jameson and made successful deck landings. The squadron’s other seven aircraft followed and landed safely. The following day the Glorious met the German battleships Scharnhorst and Gneisenau and was sunk by shell fire. Jameson and 46’s CO, Squadron Leader K B B Cross, found themselves on a Carley float with thirty other survivors. Over the next three days the majority died from exposure and, when finally picked up by a small Norwegian ship, only Jameson, Cross and five others were still alive, of whom two died after being taken to the Faroe Islands. After a week they returned to the UK in a destroyer. Jameson spent six weeks at the Gleneagles Hotel, then a wartime hospital, followed by six weeks sick leave, some of which he spent with relatives in Ireland. He was awarded the DFC (19.7.40). He was given command of 266 Squadron at Wittering on September 17 1940, as an Acting Squadron Leader. Jameson destroyed a He 111 over Coventry during the night of April 8/9 1941, another He 111 at night on May 11 and a Ju 88 on the 16th. In early June he was made Wing Commander Flying at Wittering. He destroyed a Bf 109 on June 23, damaged a Bf 109 on August 12 and destroyed a Bf 110 on September 5. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (7.10.41) and received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.42). He destroyed a FW 190 over Dieppe on August 19 1942. In December Jameson was posted to North Weald, to lead the Norwegian Spitfire Wing. On February 3 he damaged a FW 190, destroyed two FW 190s on the 15th and on March 10 probably destroyed another. He was awarded the DSO (10.3.43) and in May was posted to HQ 11 Group, as Wing Commander Training. He was awarded the Norwegian War Cross (1.10.43) and in November became Group Captain Plans at 11 Group. He received a Mention in Despatches (14.1.44). In late July 1944 Jameson took command of 122 Wing, 83 Group in Normandy. He led it until its disbandment at Flensburg on September 7 1945. He was made Station Commander at Schleswigland and later at Wunsdorf. In March 1946 Jameson went to RAF Staff College, Haifa. He received a Mention in Despatches (14.6.45). Jameson next did a course on Vampires, went on to hold staff and Fighter School

During the night of August 24/25 Jacobson was flying with Flying Officer J R D Braham, pilot, and Sergeant A A Wilsdon, air gunner. They intercepted a He 111 over the Humber area. Braham drew alongside and Wilsdon fired a long burst until the enemy aircraft caught fire and peeled away, with its port engine alight. In the late evening of the 25th he was a member of the crew of Blenheim L 1330, which crashed into the sea, believed shot down in combat over Wainfleet. Jacobson and the pilot, Pilot Officer R A Rhodes, were reported ‘Missing’ and the gunner, Sergeant R J Gouldstone, was killed. Jacobson was 18. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 27. However, his body is known to have been picked up by the trawler Alfredian near the Inner Dowsing and buried at sea on August 27 1940.

RICHARD HARWOOD JAMES 116678

AC

Radar

Operator

British 29 Squadron

James was born in Preston in 1912. He joined the RAFVR in June 1940. He volunteered for aircrew duties and went to Martlesham Heath, where he was trained in some simulated Airborne Radar Interception techniques. He moved to the AI Interception Training School at Middle Wallop after August 14 1940. The School was attached to 604 Squadron, which provided some airborne experience for the School’s pupils. James is recorded as making AI training flights on September 4 and 21. On October 20 1940 James joined 29 Squadron at Digby and flew his first operational sortie on the 23rd, with a squadron detachment at Wittering. In November 1940 Guy Gibson arrived at 29 Squadron, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. James teamed up with him and they flew together until December 1941. They had ten combats during 1941 and claimed three enemy aircraft destroyed, with another three possibles. During the night of March 4/5 1941, Gibson and James were flying in Beaufighter R 2094. They intercepted and attacked a He 111 flying towards the Humber. After the first burst the cannons jammed and the enemy aircraft climbed to 15,000 feet. Although without oxygen, James struggled for at least forty minutes, changing ammunition pans. When finished, he collapsed, exhausted. With the one cannon successfully cleared, Gibson was able to destroy the He 111. On April 23 they damaged an unidentified enemy aircraft, on May 3/4 they damaged another, probably a Ju 88 of II/KG 77, on July 6/7 they destroyed a He 111 near Sheerness and on October 21 they damaged two Ju 87s near Dover. James was awarded the DFM (2.9.41). After Gibson was posted away in December 1941, James flew with the Flight Commander who took his place. Commissioned in February 1942, James went to 96 Squadron in June, then just converting from Defiants to Beaufighters, as Senior Navigator Radio. He flew operationally with the CO, Wing Commander R J Burns, until Summer 1943. James remained with 96 Squadron after he was rested, becoming Senior Navigator

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shot down W of Dunkirk, in Spitfire AD 233. With no known grave, Jankiewicz is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt.

appointments until 1952, when he was made CO of RAF Wunsdorf. In 1954 Jameson was with 11 Group, as SASO and in 1956 he was Deputy SASO at 2nd TAF. He was a member of the HQ Staff for the RAF’s nuclear bomb trials on Christmas Island in 1959. He retired on August 6 1960, as Group Captain, retaining the rank of Air Commodore. He returned to New Zealand to live. As well as his other wartime awards, Jameson received the Silver Star (US) and the Order of Orange-Nassau. Jameson died in September 1996. APO 4.5.36 GC 1.1.52

PO 9.3.37

FO 9.9.38

FL 3.9.40

SL 9.9.41

WC 1.1.44

PO 13.6.40 FO 1.3.41

SVATOPLUK JANOUCH 81892

PO

Pilot

Polish

PO 12.7.40 FO 27.12.40

WOJCIECH JANUSZEWICZ P 1385

Pilot

Polish

FO

Pilot

Polish

303 Squadron

Januszewicz was born on April 30 1911 and was in the PAF before the war. In September 1939 he was with 111 Eskadra. On the 3rd he destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 4th and 5th Ju 87s. When Poland collapsed, he escaped to France and in May 1940 he was in l’Armée de l’Air, with a Dewoitine fighter squadron at Meaux. After the French capitulation, he made his way to North Africa and then travelled on to England, via Gibraltar. Januszewicz went first to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT at Blackpool. From there he was posted to 303 Squadron at Northolt, at its formation on August 2 1940. He almost certainly converted to Hurricanes on the squadron. On September 6 Januszewicz was temporarily attached to No 1 (RCAF) Squadron, also based at Northolt. On this day he was scrambled with the Canadians at 17.45 hrs. He flew Hurricane P3089, which he had borrowed from No 1 Squadron, RAF, also based at Northolt. Combat was joined with Bf 109s and Bf 110s, during which Januszewicz probably destroyed a Bf 110, which was never officially claimed. He was then himself shot down by a Bf 109 and he made a crash-landing near Lenham. On September 26 he was damaged in a combat over Southampton and made a forcedlanding between Charity and Wyton Farms, near Fareham, in Hurricane P 3544. He was unhurt and the aircraft was repairable. He was killed on October 5 1940, when he was shot down by Bf 109s and crashed in flames at Stowting, in Hurricane P 3892. Januszewicz was buried in Northwood Cemetery, Middlesex and he is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (23.12.40).

FO 1.3.42 FL 1.3.43

JERZY JANKIEWICZ PO

310 Squadron

He later escaped to France and joined l’Armée de l’Air. In May 1940 Janouch was with Groupe de Chasse I/6. On the 25th he shared a He 111, on June 3 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and on the 5th a Hs 123. After the French collapse in June 1940, Janouch made his way to England and then he was commissioned in the RAFVR on July 12, the day he joined 310 Squadron, which was then forming at Duxford. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on September 7 and shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on the 18th, over the Thames. After the war Janouch was released from the RAF, as a Squadron Leader, and is believed to have settled in the USA.

32 Squadron

Janicki arrived in England in late 1939 and was commissioned in the RAFVR in January 1940. He transferred to the PAF on August 6. He was at 15 EFTS in September 1940, for testing and grading, after which he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 25th. After converting to Hurricanes, Janicki joined 32 Squadron at Acklington on October 12 and moved to 46 Squadron at North Weald on November 29 1940. Janicki joined 213 Squadron at Driffield on January 15 1941 and then 17 Squadron at Castletown on April 17. On April 23 1941 Janicki joined 307 Squadron at Exeter but on May 3 he moved to 302 Squadron at Kenley and stayed with it until December 14 1941, when he was posted to 317 Squadron at Exeter. On the 18th he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed. Janicki was rested on April 12 1942 and went to 116 Squadron at Hendon, engaged on radar calibration duties. He was awarded the KW (5.5.42) and returned to operations on June 12, when he rejoined 317. He was awarded a Bar to the KW (20.8.42) and shared in the destruction of a FW 190 and damaged two more on September 11 1943. He was awarded a second Bar to the KW (20.10.43). When his tour with 317 ended, he was posted to HQ 9 Group. Janicki served at 61 OTU, Rednal, as an instructor. In January 1944 he was at 2 TEU, instructing. On May 12 1944 Janicki was attached to 61 Squadron of the US 56th Fighter Group. On June 6 he probably destroyed a FW 190 and damaged another. He was killed on June 13 1944, flying a Thunderbolt with 61. On an operational flight over France, he reported his engine was malfunctioning. Janicki either baled out or was killed trying to land near Le Mans. German sources reported that he was shot down. He is buried in Le Mans Cemetery.

83698

Czechoslovakian

Janouch was in the Czech Air Force when the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939. He was demobilised on the 17th.

Born on February 5 1917, Janicki was in the PAF before the war. In September 1939 he was serving with 111 Eskadra. On the 6th he shared in the destruction of a Ju 87.

PO 24.1.40 PO (PAF) 1.3.41

Pilot

WC 1.10.46

ZBIGNIEW JANICKI 76694

PO

601 and 303 Squadrons

Jankiewicz was born on July 15 1913. He was commissioned in the RAFVR in June 1940 and then he transferred to the PAF on August 6. Jankiewicz was at 15 EFTS from July 18, for testing and grading. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 1 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 601 Squadron at Debden on August 18. Jankiewicz damaged a Bf 109 on August 31 and probably destroyed a Bf 110 on September 4, in combat over Worthing. His Hurricane, R 4214, was damaged and he made a forcedlanding near Goring, slightly wounded. His next flight was made on the 7th, from Tangmere to Exeter. On September 25 he probably destroyed a Bf 110 and on October 7 he damaged another. Jankiewicz was posted to 303 Squadron at Leconfield on October 22 1940. Awarded the KW and Bar (1.2.41), he was rested with Operations Room duties from February 8 1941 until he was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on April 13. He shared in the destruction of a Ju 52 on May 15 and became ‘B’ Flight Commander. He destroyed a Bf 109 in the air and damaged another on the ground on June 22 and shared a probable Bf 109 on July 6. Jankiewicz took command of 303 Squadron on July 9. He was awarded a second Bar to the KW (15.7.41), the VM (5th Class) (10.9.41) and the DFC (30.10.41). He came off operations on November 20 and took up duties as a Flying Control Officer. On May 22 1942 Jankiewica joined 222 Squadron at North Weald, as a Flight Commander. Three days later he failed to return from an operation over France and was probably

RAYMOND WALTER EMLYN JARRETT 56779

Sgt

Pilot

British

245 and 501 Squadrons

Born in Abercynon, Wales on November 26 1911, Jarrett went to Mountain Ash County Secondary School, Glamorgan. He joined the RAF in September 1927, as an Aircraft Apprentice (561763) and passed out in August 1930, as an AC 2 Metal Rigger. On July 4 1935 LAC Jarrett remustered as an Airman u/t Fitter, becoming a Fitter 1 on July 30 1936. He was promoted to Corporal Fitter on March 15 1937. Jarrett again remustered on June 23 1937, this time as an Air Observer/Fitter 1. Promoted to Sergeant on January 19 1939, Jarrett remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot on February 6. With training completed, he joined the newly-reformed 245 Squadron at

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. He returned to the UK in June and was posted to Manston on MoD duties, assisting with the repatriation of the Czechoslovak RAF airmen stationed there. Jaske was released from the RAF in September 1945 and returned to Czechoslovakia where he rejoined the Czech Air Force, on staff duties, for the 4th Air Region based in Bratislava. Following the communist takeover in February 1948 Jaske was dismissed from the Czech Air Force on March 2 1948 but immediately escaped to the American Zone in Germany with his family. He returned to England where he rejoined the RAF, in December 1949, as a Flight Lieutenant. He retrained to fly Meteor and Vampire aircraft at bases in England and the Sudan. On his return to England from the Sudan he was posted as Commanding Officer of a Navigation School until 1958, following which he held posts as RAF Liaison Officer with l’Armee de l’Air and then as a Radar Station Commander Jaske retired from the RAF on May 31 1968 as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. He then became a flying instructor at Kidlington Flying Club, Oxfordshire. He died on June 20 2001 and is buried in Brookwood Cemetery.

Leconfield on November 6 1939. The squadron became operational with Hurricanes on April 25 1940. Soon after the German blitzkrieg was launched in France on May 10, Jarrett went over with ‘A’ Flight of 245 on the 16th, to reinforce 615 Squadron. After what he described as ‘eight of the longest days of my life’, Jarrett found himself at Abbeville, on an aerodrome crowded with Hurricanes, Lysanders and Blenheims. He was the last pilot to take off, on May 22 in a Gladiator, with orders to land ‘anywhere in England’. Jarrett put down at Little Rissington and was put under close arrest but was released when a signal came ‘Sergeant-Pilot Jarrett in one Gladiator to report to Kenley’. The CO at Little Rissington gave Jarrett two days grace and the use of his own staff car to visit his wife, teaching at Shipton-under-Wychwood. Jarrett duly flew his Gladiator to Kenley and when he could not find anyone willing to take it on charge he left it at dispersal and went to rejoin 245 Squadron, then at Drem. In June 1940 the squadron moved south to Hawkinge and on the 20th it made a strafing attack on the aerodrome at Rouen-Boos. Jarrett was credited with destroying five transport aircraft on the ground. He was attached to 43 Squadron at Usworth from September 18 to 26 1940. He returned to 245 Squadron and flew his last sortie with it on the 27th. He joined 501 Squadron at Kenley on September 29. On October 15 Jarrett’s Hurricane, P 5914, was damaged by Bf 109s in a combat over Sheppey. He made a forced-landing at Rochford, wounded. He did not make his next flight until November 22 1940. Jarrett was promoted to Flight Sergeant on April 1 1941, became a Warrant Officer six months later and he was commissioned as a Flying Officer on April 6 1945. He retired from the RAF in April 1946. He held an RAFVR commission briefly in 1950 and was then commissioned in the RAuxAF Regiment for five years from August 26 1950. Jarrett later went to live in South Africa and he died in Durban on August 10 1984.

PO 17.8.40 FO 27.12.40 FL 1.3.41 FL 15.12.49 SL 20.7.41

FRANCISZEK JASTRZEBSKI P 1296

FL

Pilot

Polish

Born on November 10 1905, Jastrzebski trained as a teacher. He joined the Army Reserve and went to the Officer Cadet School, to train as an infantry officer.

FO 6.4.45 FO (RAFVR) 7.3.50 FO (RAuxAF) 26.8.50

He transferred to the PAF, went to the Officers’ School at Deblin and he was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant in 1928. Jastrzebski qualified as an Observer on August 5 1929, was posted to the 5th Air Force Regiment at Lida and moved to the 4th Air Force Regiment at Torun in 1931. From 1935 to 1937 Jastrzebski was an instructor on the advanced Bombing and Gunnery course at Grudziadz. He left there to begin pilot training and in 1938 he was CO of 132 Eskadra of III/3 Fighter Dyon, Poznan. In the September 1939 fighting in Poland Jastrzebski destroyed a Ju 86 on the 2nd, aBf 110 on the 8th and a Bf 109 on the 10th. He was released by the High Command on September 16 and went to Warsaw, where he was wounded and taken to hospital. He escaped, made his way through Hungary and Yugoslavia and reached Lyon, in France, in January 1940. Jastrzebski joined l’Armée de l’Air and from May 19 1940 he led a flight of six pilots in Groupe de Chasse II/1, defending the Chateaudun area. He claimed one enemy aircraft destroyed and shared another. After the French collapse, Jastrzebski made his way to England, went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool and was commissioned in the PAF. He then joined the newly-formed 302 Squadron at Leconfield on July 26 1940, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. On September 11 ‘A’ Flight of 302 went to Duxford, from where it was to operate with the Bader Big Wing. The Flight was joined by the rest of 302 Squadron on the 12th. On the 15th Jastrzebski shared in the destruction of a Do 17 SE of London and on the 18th he probably destroyed another. 302 Squadron returned to Leconfield on September 26. Jastrzebski failed to return from a patrol over the Channel on October 25 1940. The squadron was attacked by Bf 109s. His Hurricane, V 7593, crashed into the sea, cause unknown. His body was later washed up at Sylt and he was buried there. After the war his remains were exhumed and buried in the Kiel War Cemetery. Jastrzebski is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (21.12.40), the KW (20.10.43), three Bars to the KW (31.10.47) and the C de G (Fr).

JOSEF ANTONIN JASKE 83226

PO

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

302 Squadron

312 Squadron

Jaske was born on January 30 1913 in Nymburk, Czechoslovakia. He was in the Czech Air Force from 1933 and he was a pilot with the 4th Air Regiment. After the Germans entered Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939 the Czech Air Force was disbanded by the Germans. Jaske was demobilised two days later. Jaske escaped to Poland in June 1939 and reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate in Krakow. On 26 July 1940 he sailed, with other escaped Czechoslovak airmen, aboard the Kastelholm and arrived in Calais on August 1. Czech airmen were required to join the French Foreign Legion but with an agreement that should war be declared they would transfer to French military units. Jaske was waiting in Paris but, before he could be transferred to the Foreign Legion, war was declared and he was transferred to l’Armée de l’Air. He was assigned to the Centre d’Instruction de Chasse at Chartres for retraining on French equipment On December 1, with the rank of Lieutenantt, he was posted to GC II/5 based at Toul airbase flying Curtis H-75c Fighter aircraft. On April 23 1940 he shared in the probable destruction of a Do 17, on May 16 he destroyed a He 111 and claimed a probable He 111 on the same day. The rapid advance of German forces caused GC II/5 to keep retreating westward to avoid capture. By June 18 1940 it was in Perpignan. Eventually it evacuated to Maison Blanche airbase, in Algeria, on June 20. After the collapse of France, Jaske was released from l’Armée d l’Air and made his way to Casablanca on a four day-train journey before departing in the Royal Scotsman for Gibraltar. From there he sailed to Cardiff and after arrival on August 5 Jaske went to the RAF Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford, where he was commissioned in the RAFVR on August 17. On September 5 he joined the newly-formed 312 Squadron at Duxford where he retrained on Hurricanes. On October 11his Hurricane L 1807, was damaged by fire from a Do17z but he managed to return to base. He became ‘A’ Flight Commander on May 21 1941. He remained with 312 Squadron until July 23 when he was posted to Catterick, to form and take joint command of 313 Squadron. On December 15 1941 he was posted to the Czechoslovak Inspectorate General in London. He was assigned to 10 Group as Czechoslovak Liaison Officer and on September 1 1942 went as Deputy Czechoslovak Liaison Officer to Fighter Command HQ. On November 26 1942 Jaske was flying to Llanwit to attend the funeral of Sergeant Frantisek Remes who had been killed in a training accident at 53 OTU. With Group Captain Cizek as a passenger, Jaske was at the controls of a Foster-Wickner Warferry aircraft, ES947 (G-AFKU) in poor visibility when the aircraft crashed into the sea, after striking a balloon cable S of Penarth. Cizek was killed and Jaske was taken to St Athan Hospital and was posted as noneffective sick, having broken his spine. He made a full recovery following eight months in hospital. On May 27 1943, he was posted to Ottawa, as Liaison Officer (Czechoslovak Air Attaché) with the British Air Liaison Mission. On March 16 1945 Jaske went on a course at the Command and General Staff School

LUCIEN LEON GUSTAVE JAVAUX 84284

PO

Observer

Belgian

235 Squadron

Javaux was born on August 16 1911 in Namur. He studied law and acquired a civilian flying licence. From August 1934 he undertook military service, joining the First Aviation Regiment. He was a Sergeant when his service ended on October 16 1935. He went on to the reserve and undertook further training in 1936 and 1938, always as an observer, rather than a pilot. He was commissioned in September 1938. Javaux was mobilised on August 26 1939 and was posted to the third Air Regiment, flying Fairey Foxes. After the Belgian surrender the unit withdrew to airfields in France. Following the French collapse Javaux escaped by ship to England. He was commissioned in the RAFVR on July 18 1940. He

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Jeff was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham on January 11 1937 and with training completed on August 7, he joined 87 Squadron at Debden. By January 1 1939, he was ‘B’ Flight Commander. He was made up to an Acting Flight Lieutenant on May 31 1939. Jeff went with the squadron to France at the outbreak of war. On November 2 1939 he destroyed a He 111, the first enemy aircraft to fall on French soil in the war. For this action, Jeff was awarded the C de G (Fr), which was presented to him by General Vuillemin in early February 1940. Jeff was also awarded the DFC (8.3.40). On May 10 and 15 1940 he destroyed Do 17s and on the 22nd he destroyed a Bf 109. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (4.6.40), being then credited with five enemy aircraft destroyed. Jeff was reported ‘Missing’ on August 11 1940. He was last seen diving to attack enemy aircraft off Portland Bill, in Hurricane V 7231. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 4.

was at No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth from July 18 to August 5 for Coastal Command training, before joining 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton. He flew his first operational sortie on August 25, escorting minelayers. Javaux was accepted for pilot training and was at EFTS Odiham, 11 SFTS, Wittering and 2 OUT, Catfoss. He was posted to 143 Squadron and then 236 Squadron before becoming an instructor at Catfoss and Crosby-on-Eden. He returned to 143 Squadron on January 9 1943 at North Coates. From August he was with 272 Squadron in Egypt flying Beaufighters. By September he was with 681 Squadron, operating Mosquitos from Dum Dum, India. On October 18 he was detailed to ferry Mosquito PR IX LR 441 from Allahabad to Dum Dum. En route a combination of darkness and torrential rain made him decide to put down at the RAF airfield at Rianchi, though the runway could only be marked by lorry headlights. On his fourth approach the aircraft was seen to descend into a river bank short of the runway. Javaux and his navigator, Sergeant Arthur Clifford Harper, were killed. They were both interred at Rianchi cemetery, but in October 1961 Javaux was re-interred at the family vault in Fleuris, Belgium. PO 18.7.40

DUDLEY TREVOR JAY 42063

PO

Pilot

British

APO 21.12.36 PO 12.10.37 FO 12.4.39

87 Squadron

HARRY JEFFREY JEFFCOAT

Born in London, Jay joined the RAF on March 17 1939 on a short service commission and began his ab initio course.

79240

British

JERRARD JEFFERIES 39286

504 Squadron

PO (RAFVR) 13.9.38 FO 13.3.40

ROBERT VOASE JEFF Pilot

British

Pilot

British

310 Squadron

On May 11 1940, on a sweep over Holland, Jefferies shot down a Hs 126 at Delft-Hague. He was posted to France and joined 85 Squadron at Lille/Seclin on May 17. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on the 17th, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. On the 19th he probably destroyed a Bf 109. The squadron was withdrawn to Debden on May 22. On July 9 Jefferies was posted to 310 Squadron, then forming with Czech pilots at Duxford. He joined it on the 10th, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. On August 31 Jefferies destroyed a Do 17, on September 3 he destroyed a Bf 110, on the 7th he damaged another, on the 15th he destroyed a Bf 109 and shared three Do 17s and on the 18th he destroyed a Do 17 and probably another. Jefferies was awarded the DFC (1.10.40) and the Czech Military Cross (24.12.40). In January 1941 he took command of the squadron. On March 1 Jefferies changed his name to Latimer by deed poll. On the 27th he damaged a Ju 88, during the night of April 8/9 he probably destroyed a Ju 88 and on May 15 1941 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17. Latimer left 310 in June 1941 and on July 7 went to Tangmere, to form and command 1455 Flight, a Turbinlite Havoc unit. He led the Flight until January 1942. He was later with 1660 Conversion Unit, flying heavy bombers. He was attached to 106 Squadron, a Lancaster unit, based at Syerston. Latimer flew some operations with the squadron. He was killed on April 15 1943, as a Squadron Leader, flying as second pilot on a 106 operation. The Lancaster was returning from an operation to Stuttgart when it came down at Sauvillers-Mongival, SE of Amiens and the cause of the loss is not known. Latimer is buried in Sauvillers-Mongival Communal Cemetery, France, along with the four other crew members lost. Theirs are the only graves in the cemetery for which the Commonwealth War Graves Commission is responsible. Three of the crew survived as PoWs. One of them, Flight Lieutenant L C J Brodrick, took part in the “Great Escape” from Sagan in 1944. He was recaptured but survived the war.

Called up on September 1 1939, Jebb completed his training at the RAF College FTS, Cranwell and joined 504 Squadron at Debden direct from FTS on April 20 1940. He went with 504 to France on May 12 and was shot down and wounded by anti-aircraft fire on the 20th. He crashed near Dartford on September 15, following a combat over South-East London, in Hurricane N 2705, during which he damaged a Do 17. Jebb was admitted to Dartford Hospital, with burns, and died of his injuries on the 19th, aged 22. He was cremated at Hendon Crematorium.

FO

FL

Jefferies joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 12 1936. He went to 3 FTS, Grantham on January 11 1937 and, with his training completed, he joined 17 Squadron at Kenley on August 7.

Jebb, born on June 18 1918, was the younger son of Brigadier General G D Jebb of Hexham. He was educated at Stowe School and went on to Trinity College, Cambridge, where he read Mediaeval and Modern Languages. He was a member of the University Air Squadron and was commissioned in the RAFVR on September 13 1938.

39285

236 Squadron

APO 18.5.40 PO 15.6.40 FO 15.6.41

MICHAEL JEBB Pilot

British

He was posted away on August 1, to 101 Squadron at West Raynham. In 1941 he was with 44 Squadron, operating in Hampdens from Waddington. Jeffcoat was killed on December 13 1941, as a Flying Officer. His Hampden, AE 196, was lost without trace on a minelaying operation to Brest. Jeffcoat is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 30.

APO 27.5.39 PO 18.11.39

FO

Air Gunner

Jeffcoat joined the RAFVR in May 1940 and was commissioned as a direct-entry Air Gunner. He completed his training and joined 236 Squadron at Middle Wallop on June 17 1940.

Jay completed his flying training and arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on November 20 1939. After he had converted to Hurricanes, he went to No 2 Ferry Pilot Pool on December 21, as a reserve for France. Jay was posted from 2 FPP to 87 Squadron on March 6 1940. He joined it in France on the 8th. At some time Jay was with 607 Squadron in France. On May10 1940 he destroyed a He 111 and on the 11th destroyed two more and shared another. In this engagement Jay was wounded by return fire. These victories in May were with 607 Squadron, which was withdrawn to Croydon on May 22. Jay rejoined 87 Squadron at Church Fenton on June 17. On July 11 he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed, on August 13 he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 and on the 15th he destroyed two Ju 87s and a Bf 109. On this day he was damaged by Bf 109s over Portland and he made a forced-landing at Field Barn Farm, Radipole, in Hurricane R 2687. Jay damaged an unidentified enemy aircraft during the night of September 4/5 and he shared in the destruction of a He 111 on the 15th. He collided with Flying Officer J R Cock during a routine patrol on October 24 1940 and baled out but may have struck the aircraft as he did so because he did not pull his ripcord and was killed. His Hurricane, P 3404, crashed and burned out. He was awarded the DFC (22.10.40), being then credited with eight enemy aircraft destroyed and several more damaged. Jay was 19. He is buried in Exeter High Cemetery, Heavitree, Exeter.

72449

PO

87 Squadron

Jeff, of Tenby, Pembrokeshire, was born on March 31 1913 at Kuala Lumpur, Federated Malay States. He was at Cheltenham College from May 1927 to July 1930. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 12 1936.

APO 21.12.36 PO 12.10.37 FO 12.4.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.6.42

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GEORGE JEFFERSON 134187

Sgt

Pilot

British

Jeffrey was with 64 Squadron at Church Fenton on September 1 1939. He was flying in Spitfire K 9844 on March 25 1940, when he heard a crack, which proved to be a structural failure in the rear fuselage. He rolled the aircraft over and baled out, landing unhurt. Over Dunkirk on June 1, he destroyed a Ju 87 in the air and three more and a Ju 86 on the ground. On July 7 he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and on the 19th two He 115 floatplanes. Jeffrey failed to return from a combat near Dover on July 25 1940. His Spitfire, P 9421, crashed into the sea. His body was later recovered by the Germans and he was buried as “Squadron Leader Holson”. After the war the RAF Missing Research and Enquiry Service established the correct identity of the remains and the grave in Vlissingen Northern Cemetery, Netherlands is marked with his name. He was 22 years old. Jeffrey was awarded the DFC (13.8.40).

43 Squadron

Jefferson joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754697). Called up on September 1, he did his elementary flying at 6 EFTS, Sywell and completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 21 Course, which ran from June 10 to September 7 1940. He then went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, converted to Hurricanes, and joined 43 Squadron at Usworth on September 28. Promoted to Warrant Officer on February 1 1941, Jefferson was commissioned in August 1942 and released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 12.8.42 FL 12.2.43 FL 12.8.44

APO 18.5.37 PO 15.3.38 FO 15.10.39

STANLEY FRANCIS JEFFERSON 85009

PO

Observer

British

CHARLES GORDON St DAVID JEFFRIES

248 Squadron

41929

PO

Pilot

Jefferson joined the RAFVR about August 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (759236). Called up on September 1, he continued his training at 11 AONS, on No 2 Air Observer Course, which ran from March 18 to June 29 1940.

On 253 Squadron at Manston by November 15 1939, Jeffries was with 3 Squadron in France from May 14 1940. On this day he shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 and was then himself shot down. Jeffries made a forced-landing in flames and he rejoined the squadron on the 17th. The squadron was withdrawn to Kenley on May 20 and moved up to Wick on the 23rd. On July 21 1940 Jeffries went to Sumburgh, where ‘B’ Flight was renumbered as 232 Squadron. On August 23 he shared in the destruction of a He 111 off Fair Isle, the squadron’s first victory. Jeffries was posted away from 232 on October 19 1940, on embarkation leave. He arrived at PDC, Uxbridge and joined a draft of pilots, who were destined for service in Malta. When this Malta posting did not take place, Jeffries was recalled to 232 Squadron on November 11 1940. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander, on December 16. In April 1941 Jeffries was again bound for Malta and on the 27th he flew off HMS Ark Royal to Hal Far, Malta and joined 261 Squadron at Ta Kali. On May 5 he shared a Ju 88. When ‘C’ Flight 261 was merged into a newly-reformed 185 Squadron at Hal Far on May 12, Jeffries was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander of the new squadron. On July 4 he destroyed a Mc 200 and damaged another, on the 9th he took part in a strafing attack on Syracuse seaplane base, in which a number of aircraft were destroyed, on the 11th he claimed a Mc 200 destroyed and another damaged and on September 4 he claimed another Mc 200 probably destroyed and on the 30th he got another probable Mc 202. He was awarded the DFC (26.9.41). Jeffries was posted to the Middle East in October 1941. He commanded 155 Squadron in India and Burma from November 1942 to November 1943. He probably destroyed a Japanese Oscar on January 28 1943. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (25.1.44). He stayed in the RAF after the war and was awarded a second Bar to the DFC (22.3.55) for operations in Kenya. Jeffries retired on October 1 1967 as a Wing Commander. He died in January 1985.

PO 25.8.40 FO 25.8.41 FL 25.8.42

HUGH RONALD JEFFERY-CRIDGE Sgt

Wop/AG

British

236 Squadron

Jeffery-Cridge, who was born in 1921, joined the RAFVR about August 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (755688). He completed his training and joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on September 26 1940. He flew three operational sorties during the Battle of Britain, his first being on September 30. On November 19 1940 Jeffery-Cridge was posted with his flight to Aldergrove, where it combined with a flight from 235 Squadron, to reform 272 Squadron. He flew his first operational sortie with 272 on the 24th. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in November 1943, he was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 26.11.43

FO 26.5.44 FL 26.11.45

GEORGE WILLIAM JEFFERYS 754867

Sgt

Pilot

British

43 and 46 Squadronss

APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41 SL 1.7.45 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.1.55

Born in Hemel Hempstead in 1920, Jefferys joined the RAFVR about August 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on July 26 1940.

JOZEF JEKA P 1654

He then joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere on the 27th. Jefferys was attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 3 and after converting to Hurricanes, he rejoined 43 on August 24. On September 2 he destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another, on the 4th he destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 6th a Bf 109. Jefferys was posted to 46 Squadron at Stapleford Tawney on September 15 and on that day he destroyed a Do 17 S of London. He was shot down in combat over Clacton on September 18 1940, in Hurricane V 7442. He baled out but was killed when his parachute failed to open. Jefferys was 20. He is buried at St Michael’s, Winterbourne, Wiltshire.

FO

Pilot

British

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

238 Squadron

Born at Tupadly, near Gdansk on April 6 1917, Jeka was in the pre-war Polish Air Force and did his flying training at Torun. He arrived in England in early 1940 and was enlisted in the RAFVR on February 23 1940 (780836). From July 18 to August 1 1940 Jeka was at 15 EFTS, Redhill, for a testing and grading course, after which he went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 238 Squadron at St Eval on September 2. Jeka destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged an unidentified enemy aircraft on September 15, two He 111s destroyed on the 26th, he shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 on the 27th, damaged a Bf 110 on the 30th and destroyed a Ju 88 on

ALISTAIR JOHN OSWALD JEFFREY 39740

3 and 232 Squadrons

Born on March 1 1920, Jeffries joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course at 11 E&RFTS, Perth on February 6 1939. In June he went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton, where he completed his training.

He then went to a B&GS, on an Air Observer Course, from June 30 to August 24 1940. Jefferson was commissioned on the 25th and then went to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth, from where he joined 248 Squadron at Sumburgh on September 29 1940. He served with the squadron until June 5 1941. Jefferson was serving with 35 Squadron, a heavy bomber unit, when he was shot down on an operation to Cannes on the night of November 11/12 1943 in Halifax HR 798. Jefferson initially evaded capture but was caught by the Germans in Paris on December 28 1943. He was held in PoW camp Stalag Luft 3. His PoW number has not been found. He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant.

154490

British

64 Squadron

October 7 1940. Jeka was shot down by Bf 109s over Bournemouth on November 5 and baled out over Wimborne. His Hurricane, V 7535, crashed at East Farm, Tarrant Monkton. He was awarded the KW and two Bars (1.2.41). On April 25 1941 he joined 306 Squadron at Northolt. On June 17 he claimed a Bf 109

Jeffrey was born in India on June 21 1918. He Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 15 1937. He was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on June 5 and with training completed, he joined the staff of SHQ RAF Church Fenton on June 10 1938.

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Bf 110 and probably a He 111 and on the 27th he damaged a Bf 109. He was awarded the DFM (4.4.41). Jennings went to CFS, Upavon on April 12 1941 for an instructor’s course, after which he was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand in May but returned to Upavon in September, as an instructor. Commissioned in December 1941, he was at CFS until March 1943, when he went to 3(P) AFU at South Cerney. To prepare for a return to operations, Jennings went to 41 OTU, Hawarden in May 1944 and in August he joined 168 Squadron, a 2nd TAF tactical recco unit with Mustangs and later Typhoons. After the squadron disbanded on February 26 1945, Jennings was appointed CO of 85 GSU Ferry Flight. He retired from the RAF on March 21 1962 as a Wing Commander. From 1963 until 1980 he was with the Ministry of Defence. Jennings died in 2000.

destroyed, on the 27th damaged another and on August 16 shot one down. Jeka was awarded the VM (5th Class) (10.9.41). Commissioned in November 1941, he went to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on December 2, as an instructor. He was awarded the DFM (19.2.42). Jeka rejoined 306 Squadron on May 29 1942 and was with it until May 24 1943, when he was awarded a third Bar to the KW and posted to 308 Squadron at Church Fenton. In August 1943 Jeka went to 316 Squadron at Northolt. On the 19th he shot down a FW 190 and damaged another. Tour-expired in December 1943, he was posted to 18 Armament Practice Camp and was there until March 30 1944, when he rejoined 308 Squadron. Jeka was shot down over France on May 21 1944 but was hidden from the Germans and eventually rejoined his squadron on September 11 1944. In November 1944 Jeka moved to 306 Squadron at Andrews Field, Essex, as a Flight Commander. He was given command of the squadron on May 25 1945. In June he was awarded the Silver Cross of Merit, with Swords (15.6.45). He relinquished command of the squadron in May 1946. Jeka was released from the PAF in January 1947, as a Flight Lieutenant. In the early 1950s Jeka and other Poles were hired by the Americans, to take part in a scheme to steal a MiG 15 and fly it to West Germany. They had special training in Bavaria but the operation was cancelled, when several MiG 15s were flown over by Russian defectors. Jeka was engaged for other operations over Warsaw Pact countries. On April 13 1958 he was killed ‘in the line of duty’, possibly when taking off from Wiesbaden at the start of a clandestine operation.

PO 30.12.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 30.12.43 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.7.54

DENNIS MAYVORE JERAM Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

Pilot

British

253 Squadron

Jenkins was born on May 13 1919 and was at Marlborough College from 1933 to 1937. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on February 6 1939 at 11 E&RFTS, Perth, as a pupil pilot. He afterwards went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton for No 39 Course, which ran from May 1 to November 6 1939. With training completed he joined the newly-formed 253 Squadron at Manston, direct from 2 FTS. On May 16 1940 Jenkins’ flight of 253 was sent to France, to reinforce the Hurricane squadrons there. On the 18th he took part in an interception of a force of Do 17s, escorted by Bf 110s. He destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged another but his aircraft was then hit and damaged by a Bf 110 gunner. Jenkins managed to make a forced-landing at Glisy. Returning from Aldergrove to Turnhouse on August 7, Jenkins got into difficulties whilst flying in cloud at night. He decided to bale out and landed at Fail Mains Farm, a half-mile from where his Hurricane, P 3457, crashed, five miles E of Prestwick. On August 30 1940 Jenkins was shot down in combat over Redhill. He baled out but was killed by enemy fighters. His Hurricane, P 3921, crashed at Butlers Dene Road, Woldingham. Jenkins is buried in St Margaret’s churchyard, Bagendon, Gloucestershire.

Midshipman 1.5.39 Actg Sub-Lt 16.10.39 Sub-Lt 14.3.40 Lt 1.2.42 Lt-Cdr 1.2.50

EDMUND WINCENTY JERECZEK 76664

BERNARD JAMES JENNINGS Sgt

Pilot

British

PO

Pilot

Polish

43, 229 and 145 Squadrons

Jereczek was born on August 14 1904. After the Germans entered Poland he escaped by aircraft to Sweden, arriving in England in early 1940. He went to RAF Eastchurch where he was commissioned in the RAFVR. On June 1 he moved to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool.

APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39

47706

213 Squadron

He did his elementary flying course at 14 EFTS, Elmdon and moved on to No 1 FTS, Leuchars for No 6 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to April 21 1940. Jeram was loaned to the RAF on June 15 1940 and was at 7 OTU, Hawarden from June 17 to July 1, where he converted to Hurricanes before joining 213 Squadron at Exeter on July 1. He made his first flight with the squadron on the 2nd, aircraft handling. He destroyed a Ju 88 and probably another S of Portland Bill on August 11, he destroyed Bf 110s on the 12th and 15th, destroyed a Do 17 on September 15 and probably a Bf 110 on the 30th. After the Battle of Britain Jeram returned to the FAA and in December 1941 he was posted to 888 Squadron. From February 1942 until the end of 1943 the squadron was in the carrier HMS Formidable. During the operations in North Africa, Jeram shot down a Vichy French Bloch 175 on November 6 1942. It was searching for an Allied convoy, which had been reported as it passed through the Straits of Gibraltar on its way to North Africa. Three days later Jeram shared in destroying a Ju 88 near Algiers. It had Italian markings and a German crew. He also took part in the invasion of Sicily and the Salerno landings. Jeram retired from the Royal Navy in 1954 as a Lieutenant-Commander. He died on March 24 1977.

DAVID NICHOLAS OWEN JENKINS PO

British

Jeram entered the Air Branch of the Royal Navy for a seven year engagement on May 1 1939 and was rated as a Midshipman.

PO 1.11.41 FO 1.11.42 FL 1.11.43

41930

Pilot

From August 23 to September 1 1940 Jereczek was at No 1 School of Army Cooperation, for testing and grading, after which he went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. He crashed there on September 10, in Hurricane P 3644, after a misjudged landing approach. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 43 Squadron at Usworth on the 22nd. Jereczek’s last flight with 43 was made on October 15, air combat practice. On the 16th he moved to 229 Squadron at Northolt and flew his first operational sortie with it on the 24th. Again he moved, this time to 145 Squadron at Tangmere on October 30 1940. Jereczek was posted to CFS, Upavon on December 16 1940, for an instructor’s course. On January 8 1941 he was posted to 25 EFTS, Hucknall, as an instructor. He went on a course to FIS, Woodley and 5 FIS, Perth in the second half of 1942, after which he returned to Hucknall. He was awarded the AFC (26.5.45). Jereczek was posted to 16 FTS, Newton on November 13 1945, as an instructor. He was released from the PAF in December 1946 and settled in England, where he died on August 26 1984.

19 Squadron

Born on March 21 1915, Jennings joined the RAF, as an Aircrafthand (516308), on May 1 1933. After training, he was posted to the Parachute Flight, Hendon and was standby member of the Parachute Pull-Off team for the Air Display at Hendon in 1934, which involved standing on the wingtip of a Vickers Virginia. In 1934 Jennings went to Farnborough for a photographic course and in 1935 was posted to 33 Squadron at Upper Heyford as a photographer/air gunner. The squadron went to the Middle East in October 1935. Having applied for pilot training, Jennings returned to the UK in late 1937 and remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot on December 6 1937. He did his ab initio course at 11 E&RFTS, Perth. In late March 1938 he was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 8 Course, which ran from April 11 to October 29 1938. With training completed, he was posted to RAF Cranwell in November, as a staff pilot in the Signals Squadron. On September 4 1939 Jennings joined 19 Squadron at Duxford. Over Dunkirk on May 27 1940 he probably destroyed a Do 17 over Belgium and on June 1 he destroyed a Bf 110, probably another and damaged a Do 17 on a later patrol. On August 24 1940 Jennings destroyed two Bf 110s, on September 11 he destroyed a

PO 5.1.40 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.9.42

ERNEST ROBERT JESSOP 742987

Sgt

Pilot

British

257, 43 and 253 Squadrons

Jessop joined the RAFVR in February 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 17 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, Jessop was posted to 257 Squadron at Debden on

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the weather and flew into a snowstorm. He turned back and crashed on the crest of Turf Law, Lammermuir Hills, Scottish Borders. The Anson broke up and slid down a ravine and the wreckage was not discovered until February 7, by a shepherd. Jicha survived the crash and managed to crawl away from the wreckage but froze to death in the deep snow. Flying Officer Arthur Davidson was also killed. He is buried in Haddington Roman Catholic Graveyard, East Lothian, Scotland. Jicha was awarded the AFC (28.11.45) for his work at Castle Bromwich, which was often carried out in hazardous weather conditions.

September 1 1940, moved to 43 Squadron at Usworth on the 10th and then to 253 Squadron at Kenley on the 28th. Jessop joined 242 Squadron at Martlesham Heath in February 1941. He was posted away on March 11 and on April 3 took off in a Hurricane from HMS Ark Royal, as part of a batch of reinforcements for Malta. Jessop joined 261 Squadron at Ta Kali. On May 12 1941 the squadron disbanded and ‘C’ Flight became part of a new squadron, 185, at Hal Far. The remainder of 261’s pilots went to the Middle East, Jessop among them, and became part of a new 261 Squadron, when it was reformed at Habbaniya on July 12 1941. Jessop was killed in a flying accident on November 15 1941, as a Flight Sergeant with 261 Squadron. He is buried in Khayat Beach War Cemetery, Israel.

PO 29.4.41 FO 29.4.42 FL 3/1/44

MIROSLAV JIROUDEK VACLAV JICHA 66486

Sgt

Pilot

120454 Czechoslovakian

F/Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

310 Squadron

310 and 1 Squadrons Born at Zibohlavy, Kolin on March 6 1914, Jiroudek joined the Czech Air Force in 1933. He trained at the Military Aviation Academies at Hradec Kralove and Prostejov. On completion of fighter pilot training he was assigned to the 32nd Fighter Squadron of the 1st Air Regiment at Hradec Kralove flying Avia B-534 biplane fighter aircraft. The Germans took over his country on March 15 1939 and Jiroudek was demobilised two days later.

Jicha was born on February 10 1914 at Dnesice, Pizen, Czechoslovakia. Prior to joining the Czech Air Force he served an apprenticeship as an aircraft mechanic. He worked at an aero club and obtained his pilot’s licence there. He worked as a flight instructor. He joined the Czech Air Force on October 1 1935 and was posted to the 64th Squadron of the 4th Regiment, based at Piestany airbase, as an aircraft mechanic. On February 16 1936 he was sent to the NCO School at Prague Kbely airbase from where he graduated on June 30. He was then posted to the Military Aircraft Academy at Prostejov for training as a military pilot. With the rank of LAC he graduated on April 1 1937 and then went for further training with the 43rd Fighter Squadron of 1 Air Regiment at Prague Kbely. He completed training on October 1 1937 and was assigned to the 34th Sqn of the Regiment with the rank of Corporal. His skill as a pilot earned him a place in the Czech Air Force aerobatics team which came second at the 1937 International Airshow held in Zurich. The Germans took over his country on March 15 1939 and Jicha was demobilised two days later. With the help of the Airman’s Association of Czechoslovakia he escaped to Poland on May 13 and reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate in Krakow. Jicha and other escapers then went to Gdynia, from where they boarded the Batory and sailed to Cherbourg, France. Czech airmen were required to join the French Foreign Legion but with an agreement that should war be declared they would transfer to French military units. Jicha joined the Foreign Legion on June 14 1939, as a Soldat, the lowest rank, and was sent to the training camp of the 1st Regiment at Sidi-bel-Abbes, Algeria. The day after Poland was invaded by Germany he was transferred to l’Armée de l’Air at the airbase at Tunis. He was sent for retraining on French equipment, initially at Centre d’Instruction de Chasse (CIC) at Blida and then at CIC Oran. He completed training on December 13 and was posted to Groupe de Chasse I/6, based at Oran, flying MS-403c fighter aircraft. Two days later GC I/6 transferred to mainland France at Marseille-Marignane. On May 20 1940 Jicha destroyed a Bf 109, on the 21st a Do 17, on the 24th shared in the destruction of a Do 17 and on June 5 he destroyed a Hs 123. During the Battle of France GC 1/6 kept retreating westwards to avoid the German advance and by 20 June it was at Bergerac in western France. After France collapsed the Czech airmen were released from service with l’Armée de l’Air and, together with other airmen Jicha made his way to Port Vendres where, on June 24, they boarded the General Chanzy bound for Oran. After a four-day train journey to Casablanca he boarded the Gib-el’Ders which sailed to Gibraltar. After another change of ship Jicha arrived at Liverpool on July 14, in the SS Neuralia He went to the Czechoslovak Army Depot, Leamington, then to 2 S of TT on August 1 and, finally, to the RAF Czechoslovak Depot, Cosford on the 3rd, where he joined the RAFVR (787567) as a Sergeant. Jicha joined 310 Squadron at Duxford on August 6 but was posted away to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 17th. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 238 Squadron on September 11 but this did not happen and he joined No 1 Squadron at Wittering and flew his first operational sortie on September 16. He shared a Do 17 on October 29 and a Ju 88 on the 30th. Jicha moved to 17 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on November 17. On May 27 1941 he joined 313 Squadron, forming at Catterick. He was commissioned on April 29 1941. He destroyed a FW 190 on March 28 1942 and damaged another on April 24. When awarded the DFC (28.9.42), he had taken part in 42 sweeps. He completed his operational tour on August 17 and was posted, as a test pilot, to 9 Maintenance Unit where he remained until January 3 1943. Jicha was posted to 45 MU Castle Bromwich in early 1943, as a test pilot on new and prototype aircraft. By May 1944 he had flown 822 hours on test duties, experiencing a high proportion of engine failures. Out of fifteen forced-landings, he landed nine aircraft intact, with undercarriages down, on the airfield. On May 17 Jicha was posted away from 45 MU due to new regulations which precluded foreign nationals working on secret projects. An embittered Jocha was transferred to the Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford. He was posted back to 9 MU at Kinloss on 22 May 1944. On February 1 1945 he was being flown from Castle Bromwich to Kinloss, as a passenger in Anson NK 945. The pilot, Flight Lieutenant Ronald Ferguson, failed to check

With six others, five of whom had also served in the Air Force, he escaped to Poland on the night of June 14/15. On June 19 he travelled to Prague, where he met others of the escape group and they, individually, boarded the fast train to Ostrava, arriving early on the 20th. With local assistance they hid themselves on a freight train travelling to Bohumin, now in neighbouring Poland. They reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate in Krakow. After a short period in a transit camp they travelled to Gdynia on July 26. There they boarded the Kastelhome and sailed for Calais, arriving on the morning of July 31. Czech airmen were required to join the French Foreign Legion but with an agreement that should war be declared they would transfer to French military units. Jiroudek joined the Foreign Legion but on the outbreak of war he was seconded to l’Armée de l’Air with the rank of Caporal Chef and posted, on October 6, to Centre d’Instruction de Chasse at Chatres for retraining on French equipment. On May 20 1940 he was posted to Groupe de Chasse III/1 based at Plessis-Bellevilee, in northern France, flying MS-406 fighter aircraft. In the chaos of the German invasion GC III/1 retreated westwards until they reached Marseilles-Marignane on June 21. After France collapsed, Jiroudek made his way to England, going via North Africa and Gibraltar. On arrival in England he went to the RAF Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford, where he enlisted in the RAFVR as a Sergeant. From there he joined 310 Squadron at Duxford, on August 6. He converted to Hurricanes and made his first operational flight on August 28. Jiroudek shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 on September 18 . Over Faversham on November 5 Jiroudek’s Hurricane, V 7588, was hit by anti-aircraft fire. He baled out. The aircraft crashed at Graveney, Sittingbourne. Jiroudek remained with 310 Squadron until August 23 1941 when he was posted to the HQ Ferry Pool at Kemble. He moved to 54 OTU, Church Fenton on November 25, to convert to Beaufighters, and he joined the Czechoslovak Flight of 68 Squadron at Coltishall on February 22 1942. He was commissioned in April and remained with the squadron until February 8 1943 when he had completed his tour... Jiroudek then went to Transport Command, joining 24 Squadron at Hendon. He flew many types of aircraft, particularly to North Africa and throughout Europe. He was posted away on June 30 1945 and returned to Czechoslovakia on July 18. Jiroudek remained in the Czech Air Force until December 31 1945, when he was demobilised. From January 16 1946 he was flying with Czech Air Lines, as a Captain. Following the communist takeover in February 1948 Jiroudek was the victim of a purge, in spring 1950, due to his service with the RAF, and was dismissed from Czech Air Lines. Jiroudek died on March 23 1995 in Prague. PO 12.4.42 FO 12.4.43 FL 12.4.44

GEORGE BINMORE JOHNS 45543

Sgt

Pilot

British 229 Squadron

Johns was born at Totnes, Devon on March 14 1917, the son of an instructor at the Royal Naval College, Dartmouth. He was educated at Sutton Secondary School, Plymouth and joined the RAF on January 9 1934, as an Aircraft Apprentice (566718) at No 1 S of TT, Halton. In December 1936 Johns passed out as an LAC Fitter II and was posted to 4 Squadron at Farnborough, an army co-operation unit. He later applied for pilot training and was selected in March 1939. Johns did his ab initio course at 4 E&RFTS, Brough and then moved on to 3 FTS, Grantham. After being promoted to Corporal in early August, Johns was awarded his flying badge

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

Ferry Command in December 1940. Johnson reformed 234 Squadron at Ouston on June 1 1942 and, as CO, led it to North Africa on November 24 1942. He relinquished command in February 1943 and was invalided back to the UK, after being taken ill. Johnson was killed on July 14 1943, as a Squadron Leader and Chief Flying Instructor with 53 OTU at Kirton-in Lindsey. He was on a training flight when a student pilot released the safety catch on his guns and accidentally shot down Johnson’s aircraft. He baled out, the Spitfire, X 4818, crashed in a field near Goole and Johnson landed in the River Ouse. He was dragged under by his parachute and drowned Johnson was 22 and is buried in the Kirton-in-Lindsey Burial Ground, Lincolnshire.

on the 19th. He completed his training and joined the reformed 229 Squadron at Digby in November 1939, as a Sergeant-Pilot. The squadron exchanged its Blenheims for Hurricanes in March 1940 and on May 16 Johns went to France with a squadron detachment. After suffering losses, it returned to Digby on the 22nd. Johns took part in operations over Dunkirk and in the Battle of Britain from September. On September 15 he damaged a He 111, on the 27th he damaged a Ju 88 and on November 14 he probably destroyed a Bf 109. Commissioned in March 1941, Johns embarked with 229 Squadron on May 10 in the carrier HMS Furious, bound for the Middle East. The Hurricanes flew off to Malta on May 21, refuelled there and then flew on to Mersa Matruh. Johns was attached to 73 Squadron for operations. He destroyed a Ju 87 on July 15, a Ju 88 on the night of August 8 and claimed a He 111 by day on the 9th. This was in fact a Blenheim of No 113 Squadron. The pilot survived but the two crew members were killed. In early September he and other 229 pilots flew down to Takoradi, to collect Hurricane IIcs, with which the squadron once again came together as a unit at LG 12 in the Western Desert. On November 23 1941 Johns probably destroyed a Ju 87 in the Tobruk area and on January 1 1942 he damaged a Bf 109. In March 1942 Johns was posted to 71 OTU, Gordon’s Tree, Sudan, as an instructor. He was awarded the DFC (7.4.42). He returned to the Western Desert in January 1943 and took command of 250 Squadron at Castel Benito. On January 22 he shared in the destruction of a Bf 109. After the invasion of Sicily, Johns was posted to the Middle East Staff College in September and in December went on staff duties. He returned to the Desert Air Force in May 1944 and took command of 260 Squadron in Italy. With his tour completed, Johns was awarded the DSO (29.12.44) and posted to Sector Operations duties. He returned to the UK in May 1945 and went on staff duties at Air Ministry. Johns was awarded the AFC (2.1.56). He held a series of appointments and commands in the UK and overseas prior to his retirement on March 24 1972 as a Group Captain. From then until June 1977 he was RAF Regional Liaison Officer for Scotland, a civilian post. He died on March 1 1991.

APO 14.12.38 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.12.40 FL 3.12.41

CHARLES ALEXANDER JOHNSON 161484

AC

Radar Operator

He flew his first operational sortie on the 30th. On January 16 1941, flying with Squadron Leader C D S Smith, Johnson was involved in damaging a Do 17 near Newmarket, in Beaufighter R 2158. He was by then holding the rank of Sergeant. On April 27 1941 Johnson and Flight Lieutenant J F Inkster probably destroyed an unidentified enemy aircraft over The Wash. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in November 1943, Johnson was reported to have died on May 5 1945. PO 15.11.43

FO 15.5.44

CHARLES EDWARD JOHNSON 79241

PO

Air Gunner

Air

Gunner

British 23 Squadron Johnson and his younger brother, Louis, volunteered for aircrew duties soon after the outbreak of war. Both were accepted for direct-entry commissions as air gunners. Charles Johnson was at 5 OTU, Aston Down from July 28 to August 17 1940. He converted to Defiants and then joined 264 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on August 18. He was gunner in Defiant L 7026, shot down in combat with Bf 109s of JG 26 over Thanet on August 28. The aircraft crashed in flames on Sillibourne Farm, Hinxhill. Both Johnson and the pilot, Pilot Officer P L Kenner were killed. It was Johnson’s first operational sortie. He is buried in Folkestone New Cemetery, Kent. Louis Johnson went on to bombers, survived three tours of operations and ended the war as a Squadron Leader, DFC and Bar. He died in 1990, aged 80.

Johnson joined the RAF in September 1933, as an Aircraft Apprentice (566689). After the outbreak of war, Johnson remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. He completed his training and was with 23 Squadron at Collyweston in early July 1940. Commissioned in the Technical Branch (Armament) in July 1942, Johnson was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flying Officer. He died on October 23 1959. PO 29.7.42 FO 29.1.43

ALLAN EVERITT JOHNSON 41425

PO

Pilot

British

British 264 Squadron Born on July 11 1905, Johnson was educated at Brentwood School. After leaving, he went to a tailoring college and was subsequently employed as a travelling cutter and fitter by Hector Powe, the tailors. He lived in Nottingham.

ALFRED ELLIOTT JOHNSON Sgt

25 Squadron

Johnson joined the RAFVR about June 1940, as an Aircrafthand (1003681). Presumably he volunteered for flying duties, completed a short radar course and then joined 25 Squadron at North Weald on September 26 1940.

PO 26.3.41 FO 12.12.41 FL 12.12.42 SL 15.3.45 SL 1.9.45 WC 1.7.52 GC 1.7.61

123312

British

46 Squadron

Johnson was born on October 27 1920 in Huddersfield. He went to Harrow County School. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 6 1938, as a pupil pilot. With training completed, Johnson joined 46 Squadron at Digby.

APO 18.5.40 PO 27.7.40

GERALD BRUCE JOHNSON 391859

He was posted to No 1 Ferry Pilot Pool on October 1 1939. Johnson rejoined 46 Squadron on November 8. He arrived at 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on November 24 1939, converted to Hurricanes and was posted to RAF North Weald on December 3. Back again at Aston Down, he completed his training and was posted away from the Pool on December 22. He rejoined 46 January 1 1940. On May 9 1940, 46 Squadron embarked, with its Hurricanes, on the aircraft carrier HMS Glorious for Norway. The aircraft were flown off to Skaanland on May 26 but the ground was very soft there and two crashed on landing. The other eight Hurricanes were diverted to Bardufoss, some 60 miles further north. The squadron covered Army operations in the Narvik area and on June 8 1940 the surviving Hurricanes landed back on Glorious for the return to the UK. However the carrier was sunk soon afterwards by the German battle-cruisers Scharnhorst and Gneisenau. The squadron reformed at Digby on June 15 and was operational again by the end of the month. On September 5 1940 Johnson claimed a Bf 109 destroyed, on the 15th he destroyed a Ju 88 and on the 27th destroyed a Bf 110. He was posted away from 46 Squadron to HQ

Sgt

Air Gunner

New Zealander

23 Squadron

Born in Auckland on September 4 1919, Johnson worked as an assistant in a clothing shop. He volunteered for aircrew duties in September 1939 and began his training at Weraroa on December18. In mid-January 1940 he went to the Air Observers’ School, Ohakea, for a gunnery course and air experience. Johnson sailed for the UK on March 23 in the SS Akaroa and arrived on May 9. He was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 29, to convert to Blenheims, was awarded his air gunner’s badge and Sergeant’s stripes on July 5 and joined 23 Squadron at Collyweston the next day. From late December 1940 the squadron, flying from Ford, was carrying out night-intruder sorties over enemy-occupied France and in March 1941 began receiving Havocs. On May 28 Johnson was a member of the crew in one of these aircraft, on a low practice dogfight. It crashed near Manston and all aboard were killed. Johnson is buried in Clymping churchyard, Sussex.

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JAMES EDGAR JOHNSON 83267

PO

Pilot

British

In February 1941 Johnson was posted to 52 OTU, Debden, as an instructor. He went on a course at CFS, Upavon in July 1941. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in June 1942, Johnson instructed at 9 FTS, Hullavington; 22 EFTS, Cambridge; RAF Watchfield and at 3 EFTS, Shellingford. He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. Johnson died in 1992.

19 and 616 Squadronss

Born in Loughborough on March 9 1915, Johnson qualified as a civil engineer in 1937 at Nottingham University. He was then an Assistant Surveyor with the Poulton Urban District Council, Gloucestershire.

PO 29.6.42 FO 29.12.42 FL 29.6.44

In July 1939 Johnson enlisted in The Lincolnshire Yeomanry (TA). He was released to join the RAFVR in July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754750). He did some flying at 21 E&RFTS, Stapleford, before call-up on September 1. Johnson went to No 1 ITW at Jesus College, Cambridge, he completed his ab initio flying at 22 EFTS, Cambridge and he then went on to 5 FTS, Sealand. The course there ended on August 9 1940 and next day Johnson arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden. He converted to Spitfires and joined 19 Squadron on September 2 and moved to 616 Squadron at Kenley on the 5th. He flew one sortie only with 616, on September 11, an XRaid, 15 minutes duration, in Spitfire X 4330. Johnson went into hospital on September 20, with a Rugby injury to a shoulder and did not return to the squadron until December. On January 15 1941 Johnson damaged a Do 17, destroyed a Bf 109 on June 26, damaged one on July 4, destroyed two on the 6th and 14th, shared a probable Bf 109 on the 21st, damaged another on the 23rd, destroyed one and shared another on August 9, claimed a probable Bf 109 on the 21st, shared a probable on September 4 and destroyed two on the 21st. He was awarded the DFC (30.9.41) and made a Flight Commander. On April 15 1942 he damaged a FW 190. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (26.6.42). In July 1942 Johnson was given command of 610 Squadron at Ludham. Over Dieppe on August 19, he destroyed a FW 190, damaged another and shared a Bf 109 and on the 20th he got a probable FW 190. On February 13 1943 Johnson got another probable FW 190. In March he was posted to Kenley, to lead the Canadian Wing. Between April 3 and September 5 1943 he destroyed twelve FW 190s, shared another, and damaged four more. He destroyed two Bf 109s, shared four more, damaged another three and shared a Bf 110. He was awarded the DSO (4.6.43) and a Bar (24.9.43). Johnson was posted to the Planning Staff at 11 Group in September and returned to operations in March 1944, to lead 144 Wing at Digby. Between April 25 and September 27 he destroyed six FW 190s, seven Bf 109s and shared in destroying a Ju 88 on the ground. He was awarded a second Bar to the DSO (7.7.44). The Wing was disbanded in October 1944 and Johnson was posted to lead 127 Wing. On April 6 1945 he was promoted to Acting Group Captain, to command 125 Wing. Johnson ended the war as the top-scoring Allied pilot, with thirty-eight confirmed victories. He received the DFC (US)(18.1.44), the Order of Leopold (Belg)(1947) and the C de G (Belg)(1947). He remained in the RAF and in 1950 was attached to the USAF, serving in the US and Korea. He was awarded the Air Medal (US) in December 1950 and the Legion of Merit (US) in October 1951. Johnson retired on March 15 1966 as an Air Vice-Marshal. He was made a CBE (1.1.60) and a CB (1.1.65). Johnson died on January 30 2001.

RICHARD KENNETH HOWARD JOHNSON 102084

Pilot

British

British

235 Squadron

He flew his first sortie with the squadron on October 16, a search for a Hudson of 206 Squadron. Commissioned in July 1941, Johnson was awarded the DFC (7.7.44), as an Acting Squadron Leader with 272 Squadron. He was killed on January 31 1945, aged 25, as an Acting Wing Commander with 272. Johnson’s name is on the Malta Memorial, Panel 18, Column 1. PO 12.7.41 FO 12.7.42 FL 12.7.43

RONALD ARTHUR JOHNSON 116721

Sgt

Pilot

British

43 Squadron

Johnson joined the RAFVR about February 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745077). Called up on September 1, he did his elementary training at 9 EFTS, Ansty and then went on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 21 Course, which ran from June 10 to September 7 1940. He was at 5 OTU, Aston Down from September 7 to October 9, converted to Hurricanes and joined 43 Squadron at Usworth on October 12. He made his first flight with it on the 18th, formation practice. Commissioned in January 1942, Johnson was awarded the DFC (25.7.44), as a Flight Lieutenant with 144 Squadron, with Beaufighters. He was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 12.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 12.1.44

SYDNEY FREDERICK FARQUHAR JOHNSON 91005

PO

Pilot

British

600 Squadron

Johnson, of Chelsea, London, was educated at Twyford, Stowe and in Switzerland. Johnson served in the Honourable Artillery Company (TA), before he joined 600 Squadron, AAF at Hendon in 1939. Called to full-time service on August 24, he completed his flying training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 43 Course, which ran from October 9 1939 to April 27 1940. Johnson rejoined 600 at Northolt on May 4 and flew with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. On January 2 1941 Johnson was posted to Catterick, to join the recently-reformed 256 Squadron, as a Flight Commander. The squadron was a night fighter unit, equipped with Defiants. On February 26 1941 Johnson’s Defiant, N 3520, ran out of fuel. Having ordered his gunner, Sergeant G Lewis, to bale out, Johnson attempted to make a forced-landing at Middle Wallop, crashed and was killed. Johnson was 25 and is buried in Cliveden War Cemetery, Taplow, Buckinghamshire. His father, Captain S F Johnson of the Border Regiment, was severely wounded at Festubert in 1915. He was killed in action on January 10 1917 and is buried at BeaumontHamel in France.

JOSEPH INKERMAN JOHNSON Sgt

Pilot

Johnson, of Belper, Derbyshire, joined the RAFVR about October 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742242). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton in early October 1940.

PO 10.8.40 FO 10.8.4 FL 10.8.42 SL 16.6.43 WC 4.10.45 WC 1.7.47 GC 1.1.55 AC 1.7.60 AVM 1.1.63

520406

Sgt

222 Squadron

Johnson joined the RAF in June 1935, as an Aircrafthand. On March 6 1939 he remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot and completed his flying training at 14 FTS, Kinloss on No 1 Course, which ran from May 13 to November 6 1939. Johnson joined 236 Squadron at Stradishall direct from 14 FTS on November 8. He was posted to 222 Squadron at Duxford on November 25 1939. He was shot down and killed by Bf 109s on August 30 1940. His Spitfire, R 6628, crashed and burned out at Longhampark Lodge, Bishopsbourne. Johnson was 26. He is buried in Towcester Cemetery, Northhamptonshire.

APO (AAF) 13.7.39 APO 24.8.39 PO 4.5.40

REGINALD BERNARD JOHNSON 126859

Sgt

Pilot

British

WILLIAM JOHN JOHNSON

222 Squadron

115410

Sgt

Pilot

British

85 and 145 Squadrons

Johnson joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748182) and did his elementary flying at 22 E&RFTS, Cambridge. Called up at the outbreak of war, Johnson did his intermediate and advanced flying at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 16 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 11 1940.

Johnson was born on July 15 1919 in Brandon, Suffolk. After leaving school, he joined the ground staff at Lord’s Cricket Ground, with a view to becoming a professional player. However, in 1936 he went to work for the Midland Bank.

He joined 222 Squadron direct from 10 FTS. On September 3 1940 Johnson baled out over Burham, having developed a glycol leak on a routine patrol, slightly injured. His Spitfire, L 1010, crashed at Lower Raypits, Canewdon. He baled out again on September 14, after being damaged in combat with Bf 109s. His Spitfire, X 4249, crashed S of Cockhide Farm, Avely.

In May 1939 Johnson joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754371). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 1 1940. He crashed there on the 3rd, in Hurricane P 3719, but was unhurt. He converted to Hurricanes and joined 85 Squadron at Church Fenton on September 16. He moved to 145 Squadron at Tangmere on October 18. On a cross-channel sweep on

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an air defensive organisation in the Levant. Johnstone was given command of Sector Headquarters at Haifa in April 1942. In September he went to Malta, firstly as Deputy Station Commander at Luqa, then to Valetta, as Fighter Controller and on January 27 1943 he was appointed Wing Commander Flying at Krendi. Johnstone returned to the UK on March 19 1943 and was posted to RAF Staff College at Gerrards Cross on May 24. He went to 56 OTU, Tealing on September 11, for a refresher course and conversion to Typhoons. He received a Mention in Despatches at some time in 1943. On November 11 1943 Johnstone was appointed Sector Commander at Fairwood Common. He was promoted to Acting Group Captain on May 29 1944 and posted to HQ Allied Expeditionary Air Force at Bentley Priory as Ops 1. He moved across to Jouloville in France on August 31 but returned to Stanmore in mid-October. In early January 1945 Johnstone went to the USA, to join the RAF Delegation in Washington. He returned to the UK in late June, was posted to a staff job at HQ 12 Group and then in January 1946 was appointed Air Attaché in Dublin. Johnstone retired from the RAF on December 1 1968 as an Air Vice-Marshal. He was made a CB (1966). He died on December 13 2000.

January 26 1941, he shot down a Bf 109. Commissioned in January 1942, Johnson was posted to 611 Squadron at Hornchurch. In March fifteen of the squadron’s pilots, including Johnson, were posted to Malta. They flew off the aircraft carrier HMS Eagle on May 9, to join 126 Squadron at Ta Kali. On the 14th Johnson damaged a Bf 109 and on the 30th damaged a SM 84. In late June 1942 Johnson flew back to Gibraltar, as a passenger. He again embarked on HMS Eagle and flew a Spitfire off to Malta on July 15. He got a probable Bf 109 on the 18th, a probable Ju 88 on the 26th, got another probable Ju 88, shared two more and damaged a Bf 109 on the 27th, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 31st and shot down two Re 2001s on August 14, during Operation Pedestal. Johnson returned to the UK later in the month and was posted to 56 OTU, as a Flight Commander. He was awarded the DFC (22.1.43). In May 1943 he took command of 1449 Flight and was with it until November, then joining 197 Squadron at Tangmere. He commanded 257 Squadron on the Continent from July to October 1944, afterwards going to a staff job at HQ 84 Group. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (1.12.44). In January 1945 he went to 56 OTU at Milfield, as CFI. Johnson held a series of appointments and commands in the post-war RAF. He retired on February 6 1959 as a Squadron Leader. He died in February 1996.

PO (AAF) 3.5.35 FO (AAF) 3.11.36 FL 24.8.39 GC 1.1.54 AC 1.1.61 AVM 1.7.65

SL 1.9.40 WC 1.3.42 WC 1.7.47

IAN KENNETH SEFTON JOLL 90951

PO

Pilot

British

604 Squadron

PO 7.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 7.1.44 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.1.54 Joll was born on February 3 1920 at East Grinstead. He was educated at Hurstpierpoint College. He joined 604 Squadron, AAF in March 1939 and was called to full-time service on August 24 1939.

JAMES THOMAS JOHNSTON 43037

PO

Pilot

Canadian

151 Squadron

Johnston joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on September 25 1939. He completed his flying training at 2 FTS, Brize Norton on No 46 Course, which ran from March 25 to July 11 1940.

Joll went to 8 FTS, Montrose for No 13 Course, which ran from October 9 1939 to March 6 1940. With training completed, he rejoined 604 Squadron, then based at Northolt. On May 10 the squadron provided an escort for Blenheims, detailed to bomb German transport aircraft on the beach at Wassenaar, Holland. Joll destroyed a Ju 52. After the bombing, Joll decided to have a low-level strafe of the beach. His port propeller came off, either shot off by ground fire or by striking the ground. The Blenheim crashlanded on the beach but did not catch fire and Joll and his gunner were not badly hurt. With the help of Dutch people, they managed to get on the SS Dotterel on the 13th and return to England. On July 5 1940 Joll was detached to St Eval, for RDF trials. He rejoined the squadron on the 18th and served with 604 throughout the Battle of Britain. The squadron’s Blenheims were gradually replaced with Beaufighters from September 1940, crewed by pilots and radar operators. On October 10 Joll damaged a He 111 S of Bournemouth. From March 9 to 23 1941 Joll attended a course at No 1 Beam Approach School, Watchfield. During the night of May 1/2 1941, Joll, flying with Sergeant AA O’Leary, was closing in to attack a He 111 N of Swindon, when a burst of return fire severely wounded O’Leary and damaged the Beaufighter. With O’Leary’s help, Joll managed to get his aircraft safely back to base. On May 5/6 Joll, flying with Sergeant R W Dalton, shot down a Ju 88 over Chawleigh, Devon, on June 6/7 they shot down a Ju 88 into the sea off Poole, Dorset, on the 8/9th damaged a He 111 over Botley, Hampshire and in the early hours of July 5 they shot down a He 111 near Oakford, Devon. Joll was posted away on July 16 1941 to 54 OTU, Church Fenton, as an instructor. On April 9 1942 Joll was posted to 153 Squadron, recently reformed at Ballyhalbert. He returned to 604 Squadron, then at Middle Wallop, in October 1942. He destroyed a Do 217 on September 21 1943 60 miles E of Spurn Head. He was awarded the DFC (29.10.43). Joll was released from the RAF late in 1943 as a Squadron Leader. He worked at the Colonial Office in Whitehall from December 1943 until January 1945. He was at DCO (1) New Delhi from February to November 1945. Joll died on February 8 1977.

Johnston was posted direct to 151 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on July 13 and joined it on the 14th. Having bypassed OTU, he was attached to the North Weald Sector Training Flight. He was converted on to the Station Flight Miles Master by Barry Sutton of 56 Squadron, then non-operational, sick. Johnston flew his first operational sortie on July 20 but all subsequent flights were training, until August 1 1940, when he became fully operational. On August 14 he damaged a Bf 109. Next day Johnston was shot down by Bf 109s and crashed into the Channel, off Dymchurch, in Hurricane P 3941. He was picked up, dead. Johnston was 26 and is buried in Folkestone New Cemetery, Kent. APO 23.3.39 PO 13.7.40

ALEXANDER VALLANCE RIDDELL JOHNSTONE 90163

SL

Pilot

British

602 Squadron Johnstone was born in Glasgow on June 2 1916 and educated at Kelvinside Academy, Glasgow.

He was working for a footwear firm in Edinburgh, when he joined 602 Squadron, AAF in late 1934. In early 1938 he went to work for Scottish Aviation, as a navigation instructor at 12 E&RFTS and No 1 Civil Air Navigation School at Prestwick. Under the aegis of 602 Squadron, he went to RAF Manston in August 1938 for a service navigation course. Johnstone was called to full-time service with 602 on August 24 1939. On October 16 he shared in the damaging of two He 111s over the Firth of Forth, the first engagement of the War with enemy aircraft over the British Isles. He was detached from 602 to the Air Fighting Development Establishment at Northolt on October 21 1939, for an Air Fighting Instructor’s course. He rejoined 602 on November 2. Johnstone shot down a He 111 at night on June 25/26 1940, shared a probable Ju 88 on July 1 and damaged a Do 17 on the 3rd. He had been commanding ‘B’ Flight until July 12 but he was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader on the 13th and took command of 602 on the 17th. The squadron moved south to Westhampnett on August 13. Johnstone claimed a Ju 88 destroyed on the 19th, a Bf 109 and a Bf 110 destroyed on the 25th and a He 111 destroyed and another damaged on the 26th. He shot down a Bf 110 on September 4, got a probable Bf 109 and damaged a Ju 88 and a He 111 on September 7, shared a Do 17 on the 9th, destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged another on the 30th and damaged another Ju 88 on November 6. Johnstone was awarded the DFC (1.10.40). He left the squadron in mid-April 1941, became Controller at Turnhouse and in September was posted to the Middle East, going to HQ 263 Group, Beirut, to help establish

APO 25.6.39 PO 17.3.40 FO 2.12.40 FL 2.12.41

CYRIL ARTHUR TREVOR JONES 43693

PO

Pilot

British

611, 312 and 616 Squadrons

Jones joined the RAF in January 1936, as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot (580116) and began his ab initio course on January 6. He was with 66 Squadron at Duxford when commissioned on April 1 1940. He left 66 on April 14 and joined 611 at Digby on the 17th. On June 2 he probably damaged a Bf 109 over Dunkirk. On the 4th Jones was detached to AFDU, Northolt, for an Air Fighting course. On August 29 1940, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant, Jones was posted to 312 Squadron, as a Flight Commander. The squadron was formed on that day at Duxford. He moved to 616 Squadron at Kenley on September 4, again as a Flight Commander. Jones was badly wounded in the right elbow by return fire from a He 111, engaged off

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churchyard, Pennfields, Wolverhampton. His father, Flight Lieutenant H L Jones, an ex-RFC pilot, died in unknown circumstances on October 23 1918, aged 31. He is buried in Battersea Cemetery, London.

Spurn Head on November 5 1940. He returned safely to Kirton-in-Lindsey and was admitted to Scunthorpe Hospital. The enemy aircraft crashed into the Humber. From February 1942 until February 1944 Jones commanded 79 Squadron, mostly in India. On December 15 1942 he destroyed a Japanese Army 99 bomber and damaged another. Jones was awarded the DFC (14.4.44) and was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Wing Commander. He later went to live in Australia and died there in the early 2000s.

JOHN FERDINAND READ JONES 128559

Sgt

Pilot

DENYS ALLAN EVAN JONES FO

Pilot

British

25 Squadronn

Born in South Shields on October 28 1918, Jones was educated at Ripon Grammar School. On leaving in October 1936, he began a student apprenticeship at ArmstrongWhitworth Aviation.

PO 1.4.40 FO 24.12.40 FL 1.6.41 SL 1.5.44

40119

British

3 and 501 Squadrons Jones joined the RAFVR on January 22 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741259) and began his elementary flying training at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty. Called up after the outbreak of war, he went to 11 FTS, Shawbury for No 14 Course, which ran from September 21 to November 6 1939 for RAFVR pilots requiring advanced training only. Jones joined 601 Squadron at Biggin Hill on November 6 but when the squadron’s Blenheims were replaced by Hurricanes in early 1940, he went to 25 Squadron at North Weald on February 28. On September 21 Jones was severely injured in a crash, landing at Hendon on a nonoperational flight from North Weald. After a lengthy recovery, he rejoined 25 Squadron at Church Fenton on March 27 1942. Jones was attached to 54 OTU, also at Church Fenton, to convert to Beaufighters, after which he rejoined 25 on May 3. He did a Beam Approach course at Watchfield in May and spent two weeks at 1489 Gunnery School in August 1942. On October 27 1943 Jones completed his second tour and was posted to 62 OTU, Ouston, as an instructor. He again rejoined 25 Squadron, then at Coltishall, on April 27 1944, for his third tour. On October 5 he shot down a He 111 off the Norfolk coast, in Mosquito HK 357, with Flying Officer R Skinner as his radar operator. Jones went to the Empire Air Navigation School at Shawbury on July 29 1945, stayed there three months for a course and reported afterwards to HQ 11 Group, Uxbridge on November 5. During his service he received two Mentions in Despatches. Jones was released from the RAF in January 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant and joined British South American Airways on the 19th of the month. He went to British Overseas Airways on October 1 1949 when the two airlines amalgamated. He retired in October 1973, as a Senior Captain. Jones died in 1997.

Jones joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 12 1937, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 11 FTS, Wittering on September 18 and on May 7 1938, with training completed, he went as a staff pilot to 8 Armament Training Station, Evanton, Ross-shire. Jones was on 32 Squadron by August 31 1939. He was detached to RAF Hawkinge on December 11 1939, for cooperation with the Royal Navy. He rejoined 32 by December 17. Jones was posted away to 3 Squadron in France on May 14 1940. On the 15th he shared in the destruction of a Bf 109. The squadron was withdrawn to Kenley on May 20 and moved to Wick on the 23rd. On July 25 Jones shared in the destruction of a He 111 off Kinnaird Head. He was posted to 501 Squadron at Kenley on September 26 1940, as ‘A’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. Two days later Jones crashed on landing after a combat with Bf 109s over Deal, in Hurricane P 3605. On October 4 he made a forced-landing at Great Bentley Farm, Cuckfield, in Hurricane V 6733, because of deteriorating weather during a routine patrol. Jones damaged a Bf 109 on October 27 and destroyed a Bf 109 on November 8. He was posted away from 501 in January 1941 to instruct. No trace of Jones as a casualty has been found. He disappears from the Air Force List after January 1943. APO 5.9.37 PO 12.7.38 FO 12.2.40 FL 12.2.41

EDWIN JONES 523574

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

29 Squadron

PO 25.7.42 FO 25.1.43 FL 25.7.44

Jones, of Askam-in-Furness, joined the RAF in September 1935, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and was with 29 Squadron at Digby in June 1940.

JOHN SINCLAIR BUCKNALL JONES 33467

PO

Pilot

HERBERT DANIEL BAYNTON JONES Sgt

Pilot

British

152 Squadron

Jones, of Marlborough, Wiltshire, was the only son of Group Captain J H O Jones. He was educated at Canford School. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1938, as an Honorary King’s Cadet and won the R M Groves Memorial Prize.

On December 19 1940 Jones was one of four men in Blenheim L 6612, which flew into trees while low flying near Leadenham, Lincolnshire. It crashed two miles SW of Digby. All aboard were killed. Jones was 27 and is buried in Barrow-in-Furness Cemetery, Lancashire.

517897

British

After the outbreak of war, Cranwell cadets, who had not completed their courses, were enlisted in the regular RAF on September 7 1939 as Airmen u/t Pilots and each given an Airman number. Jones (581721) graduated on October 1 1939 and was granted a Permanent Commission. He joined 152 Squadron, then reforming at Acklington. On February 27 1940 he shared, with Pilot Officer T S Wildblood, in the destruction of a He 111, which crashed into the sea ten miles E of Coquet Island, Northumberland. On July 12 1940 152 moved south to Warmwell. On the 25th Jones destroyed a Bf 109 in the Portland area. On August 11 he was shot down in combat with Bf 109s in midChannel, in Spitfire R 6614. He baled out but was killed. Jones was 21. He is buried in Sainte Marie Cemetery, Le Havre, France.

504 and 85 Squadrons

Jones joined the RAF in September 1934, as an Aircrafthand. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot on June 12 1939. He was then a Corporal. He did his elementary flying training at 2 E&RFTS, Filton and went on to 2 FTS, Brize Norton for No 40 Course, which ran from August 21 1939 to February 17 1940. Jones passed out, at the end of the course, as a Sergeant-Pilot. He converted to Hurricanes at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, after which he joined 504 Squadron at Debden on May 1 1940. The squadron went to France on May 12 and returned to Debden on the 21st. It is not known whether or not Jones went with it. On the evening of August 18 Jones took off from Wick at 20.07 hrs, on a weather test. R/T contact was lost at 21.19 hrs. At 22.13 hrs the Observer Corps reported that Hurricane P2993 had made a crash-landing at St Fergus, Aberdeen. At 22.50 hrs RAF Wick reported that Jones was safe. On September 27 he destroyed a Bf 110, which crashed at Haydon, near Radstock, Somerset and on the 30th he claimed two He 111s destroyed. He was posted to 85 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey in late October. He was killed on July 6 1941 when Magister, N 3812 of 5 EFTS dived into the ground near Wombourne, Staffordshire. LAC F C Golder was also killed. Jones was 25. He is buried in St Philip’s

PO 1.10.39

JOSEPH TREVOR JONES 78855

PO

Pilot

British

264 Squadron

Jones joined the RAFVR about December 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742773). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and was commissioned. He went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum for No 7 Course, which ran from May 20 to June 22 1940. Jones arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 23rd and after

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Jones claimed a He 111 destroyed and two others probably destroyed on August 15 and shared another on September 11. Four days later he was shot down in combat with Do 17s and Bf 109s over Croydon and baled out, slightly injured. His Hurricane, L 2122, crashed at Drux Farm, Plaxtol. Discharged from hospital, he rejoined 605 after sick leave on October 6. Jones was shot down by Bf 109s over North Foreland on November 15, in Hurricane P 2560. He baled out, unhurt. He was posted away in April 1941, but served again with 605 from March 1943 to March 1944. He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. Jones died in 1994.

converting to Defiants, he was posted to 264 Squadron at Duxford on July 9. He failed to return from a combat with Ju 88s and Bf 109s over the Channel off Thanet on August 24, in Defiant L 6966. Jones and his gunner, Pilot Officer WA Ponting, were both reported ‘Missing’, believed shot down by Major Lützow of JG 3. Jones was 21. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 8. PO 28.4.40

KENNETH HAROLD JONES 745153

Sgt

Pilot

British

85 and 605 Squadrons

Jones, of Bromsgrove, joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 1 1940.

WILLIAM ROSS JONES 44635

After converting to Hurricanes, Jones joined 85 Squadron at Church Fenton on September 16. He flew no operational sorties with 85 and moved to 605 Squadron at Croydon on October 19, flying his first sortie on the 25th. Jones was shot down on November 15 1940 and baled out, uninjured. He resumed operational flying on the 23rd. On February 2 1941 Jones took off from Martlesham Heath on a height test, up to 25,000 feet in Hurricane Z 2329. There were high winds reported at that altitude on that day, suggesting that Jones had been blown off his course, when he was shot down over Belgium and taken by the Germans. His capture was reported in The Times on February 17. At some time Jones was held in Stalag Luft 6 at Heydekrug (PoW No 439). He was freed on May 9 1945 and released from the RAF later in the year as a Warrant Officer. He died in 1997.

PO

Pilot

British

Pilot

British

266 and 602 Squadrons

Born on November 22 1911, Jones joined the RAF probably in early 1930, as an Aircrafthand (512149). He later applied for pilot training and was selected. He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot on March 13 1939. With training completed, Jones was posted to 266 Squadron at Sutton Bridge direct from FTS on November 6 1939. He shared in the destruction of a He 115 floatplane E of Deal on August 15 1940 and on the 16th he probably destroyed a Bf 109. Jones was treated for shock on the 18th and did not fly again with 266 before being posted to 602 Squadron at Westhampnett on September 13. Jones was commissioned on this day. He flew no sortie with 602 between September 13 and October 23 1940, when he was posted away from 602. Possibly the shock effects of August 18 were greater than expected. On September 2 1944 Jones was given the task of forming and then commanding the Special Duties Flight for communication duties in support of 2nd TAF and 21 Army Group on the Continent. He later went to the Air Staff at Technical Training Command and carried out many special flights to Southern France, Belgium, Germany and Holland, carrying many important passengers. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.46). Jones was in the Fighter Control Branch after the war and retired from the RAF on January 28 1959, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader.

RICHARD LEOLINE JONES 81362

PO

64 and 19 Squadrons

Jones was born on December 28 1918 at Grazeley, near Reading. He attended Christ Church Cathedral Choir School, Oxford and then Woodvaighs School, Moseley, Birmingham.

PO 13.9.40 FO 2.9.41 FL 2.9.42 FL 1.9.45

ALEXIS RENE ISIDORE GHISLAIN JOTTARD 82515

On January 1 1936 Jones began an apprenticeship in the furniture trade. He joined the RAFVR in early July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741850), and carried out his flying training at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley. Called up on September 1 1939, Jones completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 18 Course, which ran from February 1 to July 6 1940. He was commissioned at the end of the course. Jones was at 5 OTU, Aston Down from July 6, converting to Spitfires, before joining 64 Squadron at Kenley on the 27th. On August 13 he damaged a Do 17 and on the 16th he shared in damaging two He 111s. On September 12 1940 Jones moved to 19 Squadron at Fowlmere. On the 28th Jones was shot down but was unable to bale out because his hood was jammed. He made a crashlanding at Hawkhurst, in Spitfire P 7432. He was rescued by the Army and treated by a local doctor for a flesh wound in the leg. After lunch at an Army mess, he was taken back to Fowlmere. In November 1940 Jones rejoined 64 Squadron, then at Hornchurch, and remained with it until April 1941, when he went to the de Havilland Aircraft Co, as a test pilot. In 1944 he was awarded a King’s Commendation for Valuable Service in the Air. Jones remained on test duties until his release from the RAF in January 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He rejoined the RAFVR in January 1948 as a Flying Officer and served until 1950. After release from the RAF, he worked at a car dealership in Oxford and after retiring from that he became a Court Usher in the Magistrates’ Court in Oxford, from 1982 to 1994. Jones died in March 2012.

PO

Pilot

Belgian

145 Squadron

Jottard was in the Aviation Militaire Belge before the war and when Belgium was over-run, he escaped to France and flew with l’Armée de l’Air. In June 1940 he was one of a group of Belgian pilots on aerodrome defence at Chartres. On June 20 1940 he and Jean Offenberg took two Caudron Simouns and flew to Corsica, then to Phillipeville, Algeria, then to Oujda, where Belgians had set up a training school. Finding morale there to be low, the two took a train to Casablanca. Here they met some other Belgians, who were trainee pilots, and some Poles. The Poles had permission to sail that evening in a cargo boat for Gibraltar. The Belgians and some French airmen slipped aboard with them. They transferred to a British ship, the Har Zion, at Gibraltar and disembarked at Liverpool on July 16. Jottard went to the Belgian Army, Tenby on the 18th and then to 2 S of TT on the 19th. Jottard was commissioned in the RAFVR and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 30th, where he converted to Hurricanes, and on August 19 he joined 145 Squadron at Drem. He was shot down on October 27 by a Bf 109 five miles SE of the Isle of Wight, in Hurricane P 3167, and reported ‘Missing’. Jottard was 28. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 8 and has a memorial grave in the Pelouse d’Honneur Cemetery of Brussels, at Evere. PO 30.7.40

PO 6.7.40 FO 6.7.41 FL 6.7.42 FO (RAFVR) 1.1.48

CHARLES CECIL OLIVER JOUBERT ROBERT ERIC JONES 83981

PO

Pilot

British

81618

PO

Pilot

British

56 Squadron

605 Squadron Joubert must have had some flying experience before joining the RAF and it is likely that he had served with the South African Air Force.

Jones joined the RAFVR about October 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740832). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 14 FTS, Kinloss on No 5 Course, which ran from February 12 to June 15 1940.

He was commissioned in the RAFVR on June 29 1940 and he arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on that day. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 56 Squadron at North Weald on July 15.

He was commissioned and then joined 605 Squadron at Drem direct from FTS on June 19.

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Two days later Jowitt was one of a section of three aircraft, dispatched to protect convoy Booty from attack by He 111s. In combat, he was shot down in Hurricane |P 2557, crashed into the sea off Felixstowe and was not seen again. Jowitt is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 16. He received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.41). He had two uncles killed in action in the Great War, Private C Jowitt at Neuve Chappelle on October 28 1914, serving with the 1st Battalion of the Cheshire Regiment, aged 18 and Lieutenant A Jowitt at St Julien on April 25 1915, serving with the 1st Battalion the Royal Warwickshire Regiment, aged 37. Clarence is remembered on the memorial at Le Touret and Arthur is remembered at the Menin Gate, Ypres.

In an action over Sheppey on August 13, Joubert damaged a Do 17. Following an attack by a Bf 110, his radiator exploded. He baled out, slightly injured, from Hurricane P 3479 and landed at Capton Farm, Faversham. He did not fly operationally again until September 9. Joubert was posted from 56 to 73 Squadron, then at Debden, on November 6 1940. Three days later 73 moved to Birkenhead, for embarkation on to the carrier HMS Furious, for service in the Middle East. Joubert was with this draft, which went aboard on the 10th. He flew a Hurricane off at Takoradi on November 29, to fly the ferry route to Heliopolis, via Lagos, Accra, Kano, Maiduguri, Wadi Halfa and Abu Sueir. During December the pilots of 73 were attached to 274 Squadron in the Western Desert. The squadron became operational again, as a unit, in early January 1941. Later in the war Joubert transferred to the Administrative Branch. He was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant.

JOHN RUSHWORTH JULEFF 82717

PO

Air Gunner

British

600 Squadron

Juleff joined 601 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand (801345). Called up on August 24 1939, he remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and began squadron training.

PO 29.6.40 FO 29.6.41 FL 1.1.44

LEONARD JOWITT 562160

Sgt

Pilot

British

85 Squadron

Early in 1940 Juleff and others from the squadron went to 5 B&GS, Jurby for a gunnery course. On return to Tangmere they found that 601 had exchanged its Blenheims for Hurricanes. Juleff, then a Corporal, was posted with other newly-trained air gunners to 600 Squadron soon afterwards, to replace men lost in 600’s raid on Waalhaven airfield, Rotterdam on May 10. Juleff was commissioned on June 24 1940. He served with 600 Squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. He was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Squadron Leader. Juleff died in 1977.

Jowitt was born in Failsworth, Lancashire on July 22 1911 and educated at Oulton Secondary School, Liverpool. After briefly working as a clerk, he joined the RAF on January 10 1928, as an Aircraft Apprentice at No 1 S of TT, Halton. In December 1931 Jowitt passed out as a Fitter Airframes/ Engines and from January 23 1932 to March 30 1934 he served with 20 (Army Co-operation) Squadron in India. The squadron was involved in policing the North-West Frontier between the wars. He received the Mohmand Clasp to the India General Service Medal. Back in the UK, Jowitt applied for pilot training. On April 10 1937 he was recommended by the AOC. He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot on October 25 1937. Jowitt went to 6 FTS, Netheravon, on No 8 Course, on January 22 1938, was promoted to Corporal on July 1 and passed out as a Sergeant-Pilot on August 20 1938. He then joined the recently-reformed 85 Squadron at Debden. The squadron flew to France on September 9 1939. Jowitt was one of several pilots who took off to intercept He 111s attacking 85’s airfield at Lille-Seclin on May 19 1940. At 7,000 feet he attacked a bomber, which had broken away from its formation. It caught fire and he followed it down to see it crash and explode in the fork of a railway junction half a mile S of Templeure. The squadron was withdrawn to Northolt on May 20 and moved to Debden next day, returning with only three Hurricanes. It was reformed and re-equipped on July 10 1940.

PO 24.6.40 FO 9.5.41 FL 9.5.42

RICHARD DAVID JURY 748441

Sgt

Pilot

British

616 Squadron

Jury joined the RAFVR in May 1939.Called up on September 1, he completed his training, after which he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden, to convert to Spitfires. He joined 616 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on October 6 1940. This pilot has not appeared before on a list of Battle of Britain participants but because of the sad, sorry and incomplete state of 616 Squadron’s ORB in October 1940, it cannot be positively stated that he flew no operational sorties whilst he was with the squadron. For this reason he is included in this book, as a possible participant. Jury moved to 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on November 28 1940. He was posted to 41 Squadron at Catterick on July 2 1941. No further service details traced.

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K ARTHUR HAROLD EVANS KAHN 85010

PO

Observer

British

He rejoined in April 1954, in the Fighter Control Branch and retired on May 29 1974 as a Wing Commander.

248 Squadron

APO 17.9.38 WC 1.7.69

Kahn, of Sutton, Surrey, was educated at Dulwich College. He joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748277) but later remustered to Airman u/t Observer. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 11 AONS on No 2 Air Observer Course, which ran from March 18 to June 29 1940. He was then at a B&GS from June 30 to August 24. He was commissioned and then went to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth, after which he joined 248 Squadron at Sumburgh on September 29 1940. Kahn was killed on June 15 1944, as a Flight Lieutenant with 172 Squadron, aged 25. He was a member of the crew of Wellington HF 446, which went missing on an anti-submarine operation in the Bay of Biscay. There were no survivors. The rest of the crew was, Wing Commander K Petrie (CO of 172 Squadron) Flight Lieutenant D Wallace Flying Officer G R Manley-Tucker, Flying Officer S R Rotheram and Sergeant G S Holland. Kahn’s name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 202 and he is remembered on plaque at Dulwich College, unveiled in March 2002.

794087

Pilot

British

FL 3.9.41

SL 1.7.44

FL 1.12.42

SL 1.7.63

F/Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

303 Squadron

Kania was born in Krupina, Zvolen, Czechoslovakia, on September 26 1914. He joined the Czechoslovak Air Force for military service, in 1936, and trained as an aerial observer. He was then assigned to 15 Squadron of the 3rd Air Regiment which was based at Zilian, Slovakia, equipped with Letov S-328 aircraft. When the Germans invaded Czechoslovakia, in March 1939, Slovakia became a German ‘puppet’ state. Since Kania was a Slovak he remained in the new Slovak Air Force and was assigned to the 64th Squadron of the 3rd Air Regiment which was equipped with Aero A-101 aircraft and based at Piestany. Kania, and seven other Slovak airmen, did not support the German invasion and planned to escape to Poland. On the morning of June 7 1939 they took three Letov S-328 biplanes and an Aero Ab-101 biplane and flew to the Polish Air Base at Deblin. For this action the Slovak State sentenced the eight airmen, in absentia, to life imprisonment. Kania joined the Polish Air Force on July 1 and, when Poland was invaded by the Germans, on September 1, he flew as an aerial observer during that campaign. When Poland fell, he, and other Polish airmen, escaped into Romania and then to Yugoslavia from where they boarded ships which took them to France. When he reached France Kania remained in the Polish Air Force and was posted to the airbase at Lyon-Bron for retraining on French equipment. On completion of this training he was posted to the 1st Observer Squadron of the Polish Air Force but the unit never became operational. He was transferred to Entrepot de l’Armee de l’Air (EAA) 301 at Chateaudun When France capitulated, the Polish pilots of EAA301, then at Marignane airbase, near Marseilles, took a twin-engined LeO-451 bomber and flew to Algiers. From there they travelled, by train, to Casablanca where they boarded ship bound for Gibraltar. Here they transferred ships and were brought to England, arriving in late July 1940. On arrival, Kania was, initially, transferred to the Polish Air Force Depot at Blackpool. On August 22 1940 he was posted to 303 Squadron, at Northolt. He was attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 16, for further training on Hurricanes, after which he rejoined 303 on October 6. On January 22 1941 he was posted to 315 Squadron. For health reasons Kania ceased operational flying on April 22 1941 and was sent to 4 Ferry Pilot Pool, at Kemble. Following time at 16 Polish Service Flying Training School (SFTS).as a pilot instructor, Kania was posted, on January 5 1942, to 1 Anti-Aircraft Co-operation Unit (AACU) which had the role of target towing for anti-aircraft gunnery practice. He remained in this capacity when serving with 1601 target training flight, 587 Squadron and 631 Squadron. He returned to 587 Squadron, on June 5 1944 and on November 1 1944 he was appointed at the Squadron’s Senior Polish Officer. He then returned to operational flying and was posted to 309 Squadron which was based at Andrews Field, near Great Dunmow, Essex, and equipped with Mustang Mk1s. Kania remained with 309 Sqn until the end of the war. In 1946, Kania was transferred to the Polish Air Force Depot at Blackpool and was released from service, as a Warrant Officer. He decided to remain in England and joined the Polish Resettlement Corps. After he left the Corps he worked as a nurseryman in Sussex and became a British Citizen on November 21 1950. The last known record of Kanai shows him to be working in Kenya in the mid 1960s.

TERENCE MICHAEL KANE FO

FO 3.9.40

JOSEF KANIA

PO 25.8.40 FO 25.8.41 FL 25.8.42

41185

PO 25.9.39

234 Squadron

Born on September 9 1920 at Maida Vale, London, Kane was educated at several schools, finishing at Varndean County Grammar School, Brighton. After leaving, he went to work as a junior clerk with a firm of stock jobbers in the City. Kane joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble on July 25 1938. He moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand in late September. Whilst there, he was injured in an Audax crash and admitted to hospital. Kane finished his advanced training at 10 FTS, Ternhill. He joined 9 Air Observer School, Penrhos on September 27 1939, as a staff pilot. Kane was detached from 9 AOS to RAF Farnborough on October 28, for high-altitude tests. 9 AOS was redesignated 9 B&GS on November 1 1939. Kane was posted from there to CFS Upavon on March 10 1940, for an instructor’s course, after which he joined the staff at 14 FTS, Kinloss and later Cranfield. On June 21 1940 Kane crashed in Oxford N 4767. He and his pupil, Sergeant Tarplee (741493) were both slightly injured. Kane went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940, converted to Spitfires and joined 234 Squadron at St Eval on September 18. He shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 on the 22nd. The next day Kane failed to return from a routine section patrol. His Spitfire, R 6896, was damaged in combat off the French coast, he baled out at 6,000 feet and was picked up from the sea and captured by the Germans. His aircraft crashed into the Channel. Before being shot down, Kane destroyed a Bf 109. He was in several PoW camps, including Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 63). Freed in May 1945, Kane stayed in the RAF until 1950, when he went on to the RAFO.

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LAURENCE ROBERT KARASEK 581460

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

Flight Commander. He was posted as CO to 306 Squadron at Northolt on March 4 1943 and was awarded a second Bar to the KW (7.7.43). He flew 51 ‘Ramrods’ with 306. Karwowski left the squadron on January 1 1944 and was posted to Northolt. He went to HQ 12 Group at Hucknall on April 27 and moved to 84 GSU, Aston Down on June 17 1944. He was posted to CGS, Catfoss on July 18 1945, for a Gunnery Leaders’ Course. Karwowski flew only five times in 1946 and twice in 1947. He was released from the PAF on December 23 1947 as a Squadron Leader. He held the C de G (Fr). He married a WAAF officer in March 1944 and they emigrated to New Zealand in 1948 and Karwowski went farming. He died on May 29 1978. His son, Stefan (born 4.6.45), was a brilliant stunt pilot and served in the RAF and RNZAF. He crashed in his Pitts Special at Wanaka, New Zealand on April 25 1974 and died two days later of his injuries.

23 Squadron

Karasek joined the RAF about July 1939, as a direct-entry Airman u/t Observer. He went to 7 B&GS from ITW on November 25 1939. He was withdrawn from No 2 Air Observer Course on December 30 1939, after failing on navigation training. Since direct-entry Airmen u/t Observers received their wireless training before B&GS, Karasek would have remustered as a Wop/AG He joined 23 Squadron at Collyweston in June 1940. He was a member of the crew of Blenheim L 8639 on September 25. The Captain, Pilot Officer E Orgias, was manoeuvring to land at Middle Wallop, with flaps and undercarriage lowered, when the aircraft stalled and crashed. The aircraft fell at Broughton and all aboard were killed, Karasek, Orgias and AC 2 R I Payne, radar operator. Karasek was 23. He is buried in St Peter’s churchyard, Over Wallop, Hampshire.

FO 1.3.41

JAN KAUCKY 117615

Sgt

Pilot

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

303 Squadron

When Poland fell, Kaucky made his way to France and in late 1939 he joined l’Armée de l‘Air. Following retraining on French equipment, he was posted in April/May 1940 to GC I/8 who were based at Velaine en Hayes, near Nancy, and were equipped with MB-151c and MB-152c fighter aircraft. The rapid advance of the German Blitzkreig caused GC I/8 to keep retreating westward to avoid capture. By June 18 they were at Royan, west France. When France capitulated, Czechoslovak airmen were released from service with l’Armee de l’Air. With other Czechoslovak airmen Kaucky was evacuated, from Bordeaux, aboard the Karan, which sailed on June 19 and arrived at Falmouth on June 21. On arrival in England, Kaucky was accepted into the RAFVR and, on July 15 was posted to the newly formed 310 Squadron which was based at Duxford and equipped with Hurricane Mk1s. He was then sent on attachment to an OTU for conversion to Hurricanes. His first operational sortie with 310 was made on August 30. On September 5, whilst flying Hurricane, P 8809, Kaucky was wounded in the leg during a dogfight with a Bf109 over the Thames estuary but managed to land back at Duxford. On September 15 he flew a morning and afternoon patrol and in each achieved a share in the destruction of Do17 aircraft, part of one of which crashed into the forecourt of Victoria Station, London. Kaucky completed his operational tour on March 7 1941 and, after a short rest period, was sent to 52 OTU, at Debden, as a pilot instructor on ‘B’ Flight. In November 1942 he was made Flight Commander of ‘B’ Flight. He remained with 52 OTU until December 20 when he was posted to 15 Maintenance Unit (MU) as a test pilot. On July 14 1943 he went to 20 MU, at Aston Down, also as a test pilot. On March 1 1944, Kaucky, was posted to 105 OTU, at Bramcote, for retraining to multiengined aircraft. On completion of this training he was posted to 511 Sqn, Transport Command, where he remained until the end of the war. He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. He returned to Czechoslovakia in August 1945 and, following demobilisation, became a pilot with Czech Airlines (CSA). Following the communist takeover, in February 1948, Czechoslovaks who had fought with the Allies were regarded as being tainted by Capitalism. By 1950 Kaucky was CSA’s Chief Test Pilot, at Prague-Ruzna airport, and was planning his escape. With two former 310 Squadron pilots, Josef Rechka and Eduard Prchal, and their families, he and his family escaped in a CSA DC3 aircraft, on September 30 1950, and flew to Manston. Due to his age, now 43, Kaucky could not rejoin the RAF and, in June 1951, he emigrated to Canada with his family although they later returned to England. Kaucky died in London on August 23 1970.

Karubin was born on October 29 1915 in Warsaw. He was in the PAF and trained at Bydgoszcz. In 1939 he joined 111 Eskadra and was credited with destroying a Bf 110 in the September 1939 fighting. After Poland fell, Karubin made his way to France, via Romania, and joined l’Armée de l‘Air. He served with ECD I/55 in May 1940, defending Etampes. When France collapsed, he went to England and was enlisted in the RAFVR. From the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, he joined 303 Squadron at Northolt at its formation on August 2 1940. Karubin claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on August 31 and two more on September 5. On the 6th he destroyed a He 111 but was himself shot down by return fire and crashed at Fletchers Farm, Pembury, in Hurricane V 7290. He was slightly injured and admitted to Farnborough Hospital. He rejoined 303 Squadron and on his first operational sortie since September 6, he destroyed a Bf 109 on September 30 and another on October 5. Karubin was awarded the VM (5th Class) (23.12.40) and the KW (23.12.40). He was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on March 7 1941, as an instructor, and moved later to 55 OTU at Usworth. On August 12 1941 Karubin was killed when he crashed on Horn Crag, Eskdale, Cumberland, breaking through clouds to land in Hurricane V 7742. He is buried in Castletown Cemetery near Sunderland. He was awarded the DFM (30.10.41) and two Bars to the KW (31.10.47).

WLODZIMIERZ EUGENIUSZ KARWOWSKI P 1284

PO

Pilot

Polish

310 Squadron

Kaucky was born, in Prague, on January 23 1907 and was in the Czech Air Force when the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939. He was demobilised on the 17th and later escaped to Poland and joined the Czech Air Force in exile.

STANISLAW KARUBIN 793420

Czechoslovakian

302 Squadron

Karwowski was born on September 13 1912 at Kielce. He enlisted in the PAF there in 1934 and he was commissioned as a pilot on October 1 1937. He was immediately in action when the Germans invaded on September 1 1939. When Poland surrendered after the Russians invaded, Karwowski was in Romania, taking delivery of an aircraft. With fellow pilots, he escaped to France, on foot. He joined l’Armée de l’Air and was serving with Groupe de Chasse II/6 in May 1940. On the 13th he shared in the destruction of a He 111 and on June 9 he shared a Do 17. After the French collapse, Karwowski made his way south and boarded the SS Apapa for England, arriving at Liverpool on July 7. He went to Beeston Castle, Cheshire and then to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool on July 19. Karwowski joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield on the 26th. He first flew in a Hurricane two days later and the squadron became operational on August 19 1940. Karwowski went with a 302 detachment to RAF Duxford on September 13, to operate with the Bader Big Wing. He claimed a Ju 88 destroyed on the18th. The attachment ceased on the 25th and the pilots returned to Leconfield. Karwowski was awarded the KW (23.12.40) and Bar (1.2.41). He damaged a Ju 88 on March 13 1941. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander in January 1942, went to a course at CGS, Sutton Bridge in April and in mid-June was posted to 58 OTU, Balado Bridge, as an instructor. He had carried out 197 operational sorties with 302. On December 12 1942 Karwowski joined 316 Squadron at Hutton Cranswick, as ‘B’

PO 1941 FO 1942 FL 6.44

TADEUSZ WILHELM KAWALECKI 76698

PO

Pilot

Polish

151 Squadron

Born on March 12 1915, Kawalecki was in the PAF before the war and in September 1939 he was with 121 Eskadra. He is believed to have probably destroyed a German aircraft in the fighting at that time. Kawalecki arrived in England in early 1940 and was at RAF Eastchurch, when he was commissioned in the RAFVR. He went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, on June 1 1940, to await a posting. Later in June Kawalecki went to 15 EFTS, Carlisle, for testing and grading, after which

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destroyed and another damaged and a Bf 109 probably destroyed on November 11. On a later sortie the same day he shared in the destruction of two Fiat BR 20s. On November 17 he destroyed a Bf 109. On May 1 1941 Kay was posted to 46 Squadron at Sherburn-in-Elmet. It was preparing to leave for the Middle East. Some pilots and the ground crews went to Egypt, via the Cape, but Kay was among those who embarked with their Hurricanes on the carrier HMS Argus. They reached Gibraltar at the end of May and the aircraft were transferred on to HMS Ark Royal. They flew off to Hal Far, Malta on June 6 1941. Both the pilots and the Hurricanes then moved to Ta Kali and on June

he arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 15. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 151 Squadron at North Weald on August 7 1940. His last flight with 151 was made on August 24 and, although he remained with the squadron, he made no further flights before being posted away to HQ No 1 AACU, Farnborough on January 22 1941. Kawalecki later joined ‘A’ Flight on No 1 AACU at Weston Zoyland. He was posted from there to 22 EFTS, Cambridge on September 2 1941, as an instructor. In 1942 Kawalecki instructed at 15 EFTS, Carlisle and 25 EFTS, Hucknall. He went on a course to the PAF Staff College on April 17 1943 and on January 16 1944 he was posted to HQ 84 Group. He returned to the Staff College on June 11 1945, as an instructor. Kawalecki was released from the PAF in May 1946 as a Squadron Leader. PO 24.1.40 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.9.42

28 became 126 Squadron. On November 22 1941 Kay damaged a Mc 202, on January 19 1942 he shared in the probable destruction of a Ju 88, on the 23rd he damaged a Bf 109 and on February 11 he damaged a Ju 88. On February 20 1942 Kay flew to Cairo in a Hudson. He then went by flying boat, in stages, to South Africa, arriving at Vaal Dam on March 6. Kay was posted to 25 Air School, Standerton, as an instructor. He met his future wife soon after arriving and they married in September 1943. Kay remained instructing until June 1945, when he returned to the UK. Kay was released in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He returned to South Africa and settled there. He died in Johannesburg on September 18 1981.

ARCHIBALD KAY 647610

Sgt Wop/AG

British

248 Squadron

Kay joined the RAF in June 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as a Wop/AG and with training completed, he joined 248 Squadron in mid-July 1940. On August 7 he was a member of the crew of a Blenheim, which ditched in the sea off St Abb’s Head because of fuel shortage. The aircraft was towed into land by a trawler and salvaged. The crew were picked up from their dinghy and landed at South Shields. On September 13 1940 Kay’s Blenheim, L 9451, failed to return from a reconnaissance of the Feje-Stadlandet sector of the Norwegian coast. The pilot, Sergeant W J Garfield, was killed and Kay and the observer, Sergeant B W Mesner, were reported ‘Missing’. Kay was 24. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 16.

PO 17.8.40 FO 17.8.41 FL 17.8.42

DESMOND HAYWARD SIDLEY KAY

JOSEPH ROBERT KAYLL

42006

90276

PO

Pilot

British

264 Squadron

Kay was born in London on February 14 1919 and educated at Sedbergh School. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 6 1939, as a pupil pilot.

JOHN KININMONTH KAY Pilot

British

British

615 Squadron

Kayll obtained his ‘A’ licence in 1934 and joined 607 Squadron, AAF. On July 1 1939 he was attached to CFS, Upavon, for a two week flying instructor’s course. He was called to full-time service on August 24. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander in 607 in November 1939, and flew from Croydon to Merville, in France, with the squadron on November 15 1939. On March 14 1940 Kayll took command of 615 Squadron at Vitry, as an Acting Squadron Leader. On May 15 he destroyed two Bf 110s, on the 20th a He 111 and another enemy aircraft, on June 22 a probable He 111 and another damaged and on the 30th a Bf 109 destroyed and another damaged. Kayll was given the double award of the DSO and DFC (31.5.40). He was decorated by the King on June 27 at Kenley. On July 27 Kayll shared in the destruction of a He 59, on August 14 he damaged a Do 17, on the 16th he shared a probable He 111, on the 18th he damaged a Bf 109, on the 20th shared a Do 17, on the 24th shared a He 111, on the 26th damaged a He 111 and a Bf 109, on the 28th probably destroyed a Do 17 and on October 25 damaged a Bf 109. On December 22 1940 Kayll relinquished command of 615 Squadron and left for HQ Fighter Command the next day. He returned to operations on June 2 1941, when he was appointed Wing Leader at Hornchurch. On July 25 Kayll was flying as No 2 to the Station Commander, Group Captain H Broadhurst, who decided to return to the target area to seek further action. He was accompanied by Kayll and two wingmen. As they climbed into the sun they were bounced by Bf 109s and only Broadhurst was not shot down. Kayll made a crash-landing in a field near St Omer and after capture, he was sent to Oflag IX A/H at Spangenburg Castle. He was moved to Stalag VI Bad Wartburg in October 1941. He escaped in a mass breakout in September 1942 and, with a companion, walked for seven days, covering 90 kilometres, before being captured by a forester S of Fulda. Kayll was taken to a prison in Berlin and then sent to Oflag XXI B at Schubim, in Poland. He took part in further escape activities. Kayll was transferred to Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 1374) in May 1943 and was in charge of the Escape Committee for the East Compound. Escape activities involved a very high proportion of the camp and its direction was both arduous and dangerous. Kayll was unsparing in his efforts in this work and he also organised the whole of the security and intelligence section. Freed in May 1945, Kayll was released from the RAF later in the year, as a Wing Commander. He received a Mention in Despatches (28.12.45) and an OBE (26.6.46). His portrait was done by Eric Kennington in 1941. Kayll died in March 2000.

APO 29.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41

PO

Pilot

Born in Sunderland on April 12 1914 Kayll attended Aysgarth School, Yorkshire. He was later at Stowe but, after failing all exams, he started work at 16, as a mill boy in the family firm of Joseph Thompson, a sawmill company in Sunderland.

With training completed, he was posted to 264 Squadron on October 30 1939, at its reformation at Sutton Bridge. On May 13 1940 Kay damaged two Ju 87s over Gravendeel, in Holland. Some days later Kay made a forced-landing at Zoute, also in Holland, with a petrol tank holed by return fire. On the 29th Kay shared in the destruction of four Ju 87s and in the probable destruction of two more over Dunkirk. His Defiant was badly damaged. He ordered his gunner, LAC E J Jones, to bale out and he then managed to get the aircraft back to base. Jones drowned and his body was washed up on the French coast and he is buried in Dunkirk Cemetery. Kay was awarded the DFC (14.6.40), being then credited with two Ju 87s probably destroyed and a share in the destruction of four other enemy aircraft. On August 14 Kay was injured in a car crash and admitted to Grantham Hospital. He is next mentioned in 264’s ORB on September 12, at Northolt with ‘B’ Flight. The squadron had a detachment there at some time during the Battle of Britain. On April 2 1942 Kay, still with 264, was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander. He was posted away on June 24 1942, to 1530 BAT Flight at High Ercall, as a Flight Commander, as an Acting Squadron Leader. Some time later Kay was with 109 Squadron. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (13.10.44), as an Acting Squadron Leader with 109 Squadron, operating in Pathfinder Mosquitos from Little Staughton, Huntingdonshire. He was killed on a night operation on October 18/19 1944, when his Mosquito, MM 178, failed to return. Kay and his navigator, Flying Officer K F Hynes, RAAF, are buried in Adinkerke Military Cemetery, Belgium.

83730

SL

111 and 257 Squadrons

Born on January 12 1920 at Leith, Kay was educated at Burramuir College, Edinburgh and worked for a firm of stockbrokers there. He joined the RAFVR in July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754705). Called up at the outbreak of war, Kay went to No 1 ITW, Cambridge. He did his elementary flying training at 7 EFTS, Desford and then moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 20 Course, which ran from May 13 to August 17 1940. With training completed, Kay was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, converted to Hurricanes and then joined 111 Squadron at Drem on September 12. He moved to 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on the 28th. Kay claimed a Ju 87

PO (AAF) 9.3.34 FO (AAF) 9.9.35 FL (AAF) 7.1.39 FL 24.8.39 SL 1.9.40

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JOHN ALEXANDER KEARD 82700

PO

Pilot

British

found that the squadron had exchanged its Blenheims for Hurricanes. The newly-trained air gunners were later posted to 600 Squadron at Manston, to replace men lost in 600’s raid on Waalhaven airfield, Rotterdam on May 10 1940. On August 8 Keast was a member of the crew of Blenheim L 8665, which was shot down in flames by Oberleutnant Sprick of III/JG 26. The pilot, Flying Officer D N Grice, stayed at the controls of the burning aircraft, guiding it clear of Ramsgate before crashing into the sea. All three on board were killed, Keast, Grice and AC 1 J B W Warren, radar operator. Keast was 32. He is buried in Whitstable Cemetery. A plaque commemorating the crew was unveiled in Ramsgate on March 3 2006 containing the words, “The townspeople of Ramsgate will remember forever their supreme sacrifice in averting a greater disaster.”

235 Squadron

Keard, of Sidcup, Kent, joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745305). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at FTS on July 26 1940. He was posted to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth on July 27, on being commissioned. He was on No 3 Blenheim Course, which ran from July 29 to August 25. With the course completed, Keard was posted to 59 Squadron at Thorney Island on August 26 1940. He flew no operational sorties with the squadron. He joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on September 11 and flew his first operational sortie on the 27th. Keard was killed on May 4 1944, as a Flight Lieutenant with 101 Squadron, operating in Lancasters from Ludford Magna, Lincolnshire. He was taking part in the disastrous Mailly-le-Camp operation, was aged 23 and is buried in the Canadian War Cemetery, Dieppe. His aircraft, ME 564, crashed at Aubeterre, NNE of Troyes.

JOHN KEATINGS 519611

Sgt

Air Gunner

ALBERT WALLACE KEARSEY Sgt

Pilot

British

152 Squadron In early 1935 he purchased his discharge, for £35, and joined the RAF, as an Aircrafthand. After initial training at Uxbridge, he was posted to Northolt. His skill as a marksman was quickly seen and he joined the RAF team at the shooting championships at Bisley. In September 1935 Keatings joined 45 Squadron at Helwan, Egypt and started training as an Armourer/Air Gunner, making his first flight on October 11. Keatings’ flight was posted to 6 Squadron at Ismailia and then detached to Palestine, where it carried out operations against terrorists. In December 1936 Keatings returned to the UK and was posted to 21 Squadron at Lympne. He took part in the 1937 Hendon Air Display, in the mass formation of 250 aircraft. He went to No 1 Air Armament School at Eastchurch in November 1937, to convert to Fitter-Armourer. Keatings joined 269 Squadron at Abbotsinch in March 1939, a general reconnaissance unit with Ansons, on armament and flying duties. At the outbreak of war he was recalled from a hydraulic turret course at Bristol Aircraft, Filton, to rejoin the squadron, which had moved to Montrose, to carry out anti-Uboat patrols and convoy-escorts along the East Coast. In October 1939 Keatings was posted to 219 Squadron, then reforming as a nightfighter unit at Catterick. He was sent on a Gunnery Leaders’ course to CGS, Warmwell in January 1940 and rejoined the squadron in March. He then combined operational flying and training air gunners. On August 15 219 was scrambled to intercept 40+ He 111s and Ju 88s off Flamborough Head. Seven were shot down, with only one Blenheim damaged. It was a remarkable result. In Decenber 1940 Keatings was posted to CGS, Warmwell, as a gunnery instructor. He did not fly operationally again and he later became a Senior Armament Instructor at No 1 AAS. Keatings was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Sergeant. He died on February 17 2010.

Kearsey was the son of a smallholder in Cheltenham. In the mid-thirties he enlisted in Class ‘F’ of the RAF Reserve, as an Airman u/t Pilot (700510). Called up at the outbreak of war, he was serving as a staff pilot at 10 B&GS by June 1940. He was posted from there to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 152 Squadron at Warmwell on August 17 1940. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed W of Portland on September 30 and shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 W of Shaftesbury on November 14. Commissioned in January 1941, Kearsey was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He joined the RAFVR in April 1948. He died in 1993. Brother of P J Kearsey PO 22.1.41 FO 22.1.42 FL 22.1.43 FO (RAFVR) 22.4.48

PHILIP JAMES KEARSEY 85239

PO

Pilot

British

615, 607 and 213 Squadrons

Kearsey was born on July 23 1920, the son of a smallholder in Cheltenham. He attended Pate’s Grammar School in the town and won colours for swimming and rugby. He became a King’s Scout and trained to be a teacher. Kearsey joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754659). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 11 FTS, Shawbury on No 21 Course, which ran from June 16 to September 7 1940. He was commissioned at the end of the course and then went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 14. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick on October 4 but moved to 607 Squadron at Tangmere on October 9. Kearsey went to 213 Squadron at Tangmere on the 26th. He was posted away for service in the Middle East in late 1940 and on January 29 1941 flew a Hurricane to Malta and joined 261 Squadron there. Kearsey was one of three pilots shot down and killed on February 26 1941, defending Luqa airfield against a bombing attack. A search was mounted in a Magister but they were not found. Kearsey was 20 and was flying Hurricane LV 7121. He is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 1, Column 1. Brother of A W Kearsey.

ERNEST HENRY CLARKE KEE 69441 Sgt

Air Gunner

British

British

253 Squadron

After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 253 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on June 8 1940. Kee damaged a Bf 110 on September 4 and shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on the 11th. He crashed at Dunton Green on October 15, unhurt, after his aircraft was severely damaged in combat. In February 1941 he was posted to 242 Squadron at Martlesham Heath. Kee was commissioned in June 1941. The squadron was declared non-operational on October 1, to prepare for overseas. It sailed in the carrier HMS Argus at the end of the month, arrived in Gibraltar on November 5 and sailed into the Mediterranean on the 7th. The Hurricanes flew off for Malta on the 11th and the pilots remained on the island, flying with 185 and 249 Squadrons. Kee was killed on April 20 1944, as an Acting Squadron Leader with 241 Squadron, a reconnaissance unit. He is buried in Belgrade War Cemetery, Yugoslavia. He was awarded the DFC (21.12.45), back-dated to the day before his death.

FRANCIS JOHN KEAST Sgt

Pilot

Kee, of Co Donegal, joined the RAFVR about June 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741664). Called up on September 1 1939, Kee completed his training and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 27 1940.

PO 7.9.40

801399

219 Squadron

Keatings was born in Neston, Cheshire on July 8 1916. He joined the 1st Battalion Royal Ulster Rifles in February 1932, as a boy soldier. He saw service in Egypt and Palestine.

PO 27.7.40 FO 27.7.41 FL 27.7.42

60518

British

600 Squadron

Keast, of Swalecliffe, Kent, joined 601 Squadron, AAF about April 1936, as an Aircrafthand. Called up on August 24 1939, he remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and began squadron training. From March 11 to 23 1940 Keast and other air gunners from 601 went to 5 B&GS, Jurby for No 7B (Fighter) Air Gunner course, a special one for partially-trained gunners from fighter squadrons. When Keast and the other 601 gunners returned to Tangmere, they

PO 10.6.41 FO 6.4.42 FL 6.4.43

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GEORGE ERNEST KEEL 751079

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

RONALD GUSTAVE KELLETT 235 Squadron

90082

Sgt

Wop/AG

Pilot

British

249 and 303 Squadrons

Keel joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/ AG. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton from No 2 Electrical and Wireless School, Yatesbury on August 13 1940.

Born on September 13 1909 at Eldon, County Durham, Kellett, the fifth son of a colliery owner and mining engineer, attended Rossall School, Fleetwood, Lancashire, but dropped out at 14 to become an errand boy on the Liverpool Stock Exchange.

Keel was one of the crew of Blenheim N 3530, which failed to return from combat with enemy fighters over the Channel on October 9 1940. Keel and the observer, Pilot Officer R C Thomas, were killed. Pilot Officer J C Kirkpatrick, the pilot, was reported ‘Missing’. Keel was 20 and he is buried in Highland Road Cemetery, Eastney.

In 1931 Kellett was the National Conservative candidate for Parliament for Chester-le-Street. He joined 600 Squadron, AAF at Hendon in 1933. Kellett was made a member of the Stock Exchange in 1938. He was OC ‘A’ Flight of 600 in 1938 and on March 20 1939 he transferred to 616 Squadron, AAF, as a Flight Commander. Called up on August 25 1939, Kellett was posted on May 16 1940 to 249 Squadron, then reforming at Church Fenton, as a Flight Commander. He relinquished this post on June 1 but appears to have remained with 249, as a supernumerary. He was posted to Northolt on July 19, to form and command 303 Squadron and arrived there on the 23rd. The squadron was formed on August 2, with 13 Polish officers and 135 other ranks, posted in from the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool. The squadron became operational on August 19 1940. Kellet claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on August 31, a Bf 109 destroyed and probably another on September 5, a Do 17 destroyed on the 6th, a Bf 110 destroyed and probably a Do 17 on the 15th, a Bf 109 destroyed on the 26th and another damaged on October 5. He was awarded the DFC (1.10.40), the DSO (25.10.40) and the VM (5th Class) (24.12.40). Kellett was posted to Cranage in December 1940, to form 96 Squadron, from 422 Flight. Appointed Wing Leader at North Weald in March 1941, he went off operations later in the year, to go to the Air Ministry, later becoming Air Member for Training. In 1943 Kellett went to the Army Staff College and he instructed at RAF Staff College in 1944/45. After an attachment to the Turkish Air Force at Ankara, Kellett was released from the RAF later in 1945, as a Wing Commander. He returned to the Stock Exchange and from July 1946 until 1949 he commanded 615 Squadron, RAuxAF at Biggin Hill. Kellett died on November 12 1998 in Kent. He is buried in St George’s churchyard, Benenden, Kent, with his wife Daphne. A memorial to Ronald Kellett and 303 Squadron was unveiled in the church on August 30 2014.

ROB ROY GIBBONS KEELER 126143

SL

British

236 Squadron

Keeler joined the RAFVR about August 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. (755848). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and he joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on September 20 1940. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in May 1942, Keeler was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. No further service details traced. PO 14.5.42 FO 14.11.42 FL 14.5.44

GEOFFREY KEIGHLEY 90677

FO

Pilot

British

610 Squadron

PO (AAF) 20.3.34 FO (AAF) 20.9.35 WC 1.12.41 SL (AAFRO) 1.8.46

Keighley was born in Leeds on July 2 1912. He became a manager at Harrods before the war, Keighley joined 610 Squadron, AAF in early 1939. Called to full-time service after the outbreak of war, he completed his training at 2 FTS, Brize Norton on a course for advanced training only, which ran from October 11 to December 16 1939, at the end of which he rejoined 610 Squadron at Wittering.

FL (AAF) 1.7.38

FL 25.8.39

SL 1.6.40

WILLIAM HENRY KELLITT 122985

Sgt

Observer

British

236 Squadron

Kellitt joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (745984). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and was posted to 236 Squadron at St Eval from No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth on August 14 1940.

On May 31 1940 Keighley was shot down by return fire from a Do 17 and baled out into the Channel, from Spitfire R 6629. He was picked up by a trawler and taken to Ramsgate by the Royal Navy. Keighley baled out again on July 20, when his tail was shot away by Oberfeldwebel Schmid of I/ JG 51, in combat over Hawkinge. He landed at Lydden, wounded in one leg and was admitted to hospital at Canterbury. His Spitfire, N 3201, crashed at Wootton. He rejoined 610 on October 7 1940, on ceasing to be non-effective sick. Keighley was detached to RAF Usworth on the 23rd, for Ops Room duties. The attachment ceased on December 4 1940 and he was taken on to the strength of RAF Usworth. Created an OBE (1.1.45), Keighley was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Wing Commander.

He flew eleven sorties during the Battle of Britain period. Commissioned in May 1942, Kellitt was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in January 1984. PO 1.5.42 FO 1.11.42 FL 1.5.44

RAYMOND ALAN KELLOW 39615

FL

Pilot

British

213 Squadron

APO (AAF) 21.3.39 PO 16.12.39 FO 17.9.40 FL 4.6.41 SL 15.2.44 Kellow was born on February 23 1912 at Wembley, Middlesex. He was educated at Alaro Prep School, Eastbourne and Stowe School. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 1 1937, as a pupil pilot.

MICHAEL KELLETT 86630

PO

Pilot

British

111 Squadron After completing his elementary flying training at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on May 3, for a short disciplinary course, and moved on to 3 FTS, Grantham on the 16th. At the end of the course Kellow was posted to 5 Armament Training Camp at Penrhos on September 15 and he joined 213 Squadron at Church Fenton on November 16 1937. Still with the squadron in 1940, Kellow went with ‘A’ Flight to France on May 17. The flight flew down from Wittering to Biggin Hill and in the afternoon it escorted a Bombay transport of 271 Squadron across the Channel to Abbeville. Later in the afternoon the squadron landed at Merville to refuel, taking off again at 17.45 hrs to patrol Brussels and Verde-Brain until 19.50 hrs, when it returned to Biggin Hill. No enemy aircraft were seen. Kellow was attached to 229 Squadron at Digby from May 21 and he did not rejoin 213 at Wittering until early June. On September 11 Kellow destroyed a Bf 110, on the 28th destroyed a Bf 110 over Selsey, on the 30th destroyed another over Portland, on November 1 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 over Southampton and on the 22nd destroyed a Do 17 over Bembridge, Isle of Wight. Kellow was posted away to 2 CFS, Cranwell on December 8 1940, for an instructor’s course. There followed a series of staff postings until May 26 1941, when Kellow went to

Born on September 25 1917, Kellett joined the RAFVR about February 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745095). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at FTS on September 6 1940. He went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 7th and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 111 Squadron at Drem on October 2. He made his first flight with the squadron on the 6th, a sector reconnaissance. On November 3 Kellett damaged a He 111 E of Peterhead. He was with 111 throughout 1941. On January 1 1941 he shared in the probable destruction of a Ju 88, on February 13 and 21 and April 6 he damaged Ju 88s and on August 9 and September 20 he destroyed Bf 109s. Kellett commanded 504 Squadron from October 1944 until August 1945, the second squadron to receive Meteors. He was awarded the DFC (21.11.44). He retired from the RAF on June 19 1956, as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. Kellett died on August 28 1975. PO 7.9.40 FO 7.9.41 FL 7.9.42 SL 20.6.45 SL 1.9.45

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He converted to Spitfires and joined 611 Squadron at Digby on July 1. On the 17th Kelsey was detached to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge and he became one of a group of nine sergeants and one officer. They were flown to Hullavington, picked up Hurricanes, flew them to Abbotsinch and then embarked on the carrier HMS Argus, where they were joined by four more officers. They were told that their destination was Malta and they were now 418 Flight. The Argus sailed on July 23, arrived in Gibraltar and sailed for Malta on July 31. At dawn on August 2 they flew off to Luqa and on the 3rd Kelsey was formally posted to 418 Flight. On August 16 1940 418 Flight and the Malta Fighter Flight were amalgamated to become 261 Squadron. Kelsey was last seen chasing a Ju 87 on January 19 1941, in Hurricane P 2629. He was 20 years old and is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 1, Column 2.

No 1 SFTS, Netheravon. He remained there until September 10 1941. On that date Kellow was dismissed from the RAF by a General Court Martial. He died in 2010. APO 3.5.37 PO 1.3.38 FO 1.10.39 FL 1.10.40

LIONEL GEORGE HOSFORD KELLS 70806

FO

Pilot

British

29 Squadron

Kells joined the RAFO on September 23 1937 and did his elementary flying at 4 E&RFTS, Brough. Kells was commissioned in Class ‘AA’ of the RAFO on November 24. He was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose on January 6 1938 and joined 29 Squadron at Debden on July 9. He relinquished his RAFO commission on January 22 1939 on being granted a short service commission with the RAF. Kells was still with 29 in June 1940. In the late evening of June 18 he probably destroyed a He 111 off Felixstowe. On September 4 Kells was operating from Ternhill, when his R/T became unserviceable during a night patrol over the Mersey area. He made a forcedlanding in a field near Nantwich, without injury to himself, his crew and his Blenheim. During the night of November 14/15 1940, patrolling with Sergeant R Lilley as his gunner, Kells damaged an unidentified enemy aircraft. On December 4 1940 he was attached to 54 OTU, Church Fenton and on January 14 1941 he went to the High Altitude Flight at A&AEE at Boscombe Down. He was killed on February 21 1941. He was reported ‘Missing’ from an Altitude Test Flight for Petrol Heating Tests, in Hurricane Z 2398. Kells is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 30.

JOHN LESLIE KEMP 70862

Pilot

British

74 Squadron Born on August 4 1915, Kelly was educated at Beaumont College, Windsor and entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1933, as a Flight Cadet.

After graduating in July 1935, he joined 4 (Army Cooperation) Squadron at Farnborough. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander in August 1938. At the outbreak of war Kelly was posted to HQ British Air Forces in France. After the German offensive in May 1940, he attached himself to No 1 Squadron and flew with it until its withdrawal from France to England on June 18. Kelly went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 1 1940, where he converted to Spitfires and then joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on July 15 1940. He was made ‘B’ Flight Commander on the 23rd and he destroyed a Bf 109 on the 28th. He relinquished his command on August 31 and was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 8, as an instructor. He became OC ‘D’ Flight there on the 28th. In late January 1941 Kelly went to 604 Squadron at Middle Wallop. He moved to 93 Squadron, then also at Middle Wallop, in April and in late November he joined 125 Squadron at Fairwood Common. Kelly was given command of 255 Squadron at Coltishall in December 1941. He led the squadron to North Africa in November 1942. During the nights of December 14/15 and 17/18 he destroyed two Ju 88s. In late March 1943 Kelly was posted to HQ North Africa Air Forces, as Officer i/c night operations. He was awarded the DFC (21.5.43) and returned to the UK in January 1944. After the war Kelly was RAF representative on the Allied Control Commission in Finland until August 1948, when he was sent to a post in Germany. He retired on October 7 1961 as a Group Captain. Kelly died on February 11 1987.

JOHN RICHARD KEMP 41850

Pilot

British

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

141 Squadron

The son of a police inspector, Kemp was born in Napier on August 14 1914. Educated at Wellington College, he afterwards worked as a clerk. In February 1938 he applied for an RAF short service commission and after being provisionally accepted later in the year, he sailed for the UK in the RMS Rangitata on December 15. On January 23 1939 Kemp began his ab initio training at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham and on April 15 he was posted to 13 FTS, Drem. With training completed, he joined the reformed 141 Squadron at Grangemouth on October 21. Kemp went to 11 Group Pool, St Athan for further training. He joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on November 20 but rejoined 141 Squadron on December 15. After a working-up period, the squadron became operational on June 3 1940, with Defiants. With no operational experience, 141 flew to West Malling on July 12. Shortly after 09.00 hrs on the 19th twelve Defiants moved to the forward airfield at Hawkinge. At 12.23 hrs they were ordered off, to carry out an offensive patrol 20 miles S of Folkestone. Three were left behind with engine trouble. During the patrol the nine Defiants were surprised by Bf 109s of III/JG 51 and in less than a minute, four were shot down into the sea, three in flames, one of which was Kemp‘s, L 6974. He and his gunner, Sergeant R Crombie, were never seen again. Their names appear on the reredos in St George’s RAF Chapel of Remembrance at Biggin Hill. Kemp’s name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 8.

ERIC NORMAN KELSEY Sgt

54 Squadron

APO (RAFO) 26.3.38 PO 2.9.39 FO 17.7.40 FL 1.6.42

PO 27.7.35 FO 27.1.37 FL 27.1.39 SL 1.9.40 WC 1.12.41 WC 1.7.47 GC 1.7.55

741557

British

Called up on September 2 1939, Kemp completed further training and then joined 609 Squadron at Drem on December 1. He was detached to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on December 26, for further training. He arrived there on January 1 1940. After converting to Spitfires Kemp rejoined 609 on January 26. Kemp joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on May 27 1940. On July 4 his aircraft was damaged in combat with Bf 109s near Manston. During a convoy patrol on the 21st, in Spitfire N 3184, his engine failed 15 miles E of Clacton. He baled out and was rescued by a destroyer. After an action with Bf 109s off Dover on August 12, he made a forced-landing at Lympne, wounded. He was declared non-effective sick and did not rejoin the squadron until August 25. Kemp was posted away from 54 to SHQ, Catterick on December 5 1940, for Ops Room duties. He did not fly any more. He went on to Fighter Control duties and landed in Normandy soon after D Day, with a small mobile radar control unit. By VE Day he had reached the Baltic. Kemp was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant and he died in 1991.

DILLON PIERS DENIS GERARD KELLY SL

Pilot

Kemp began his RAFO ab initio course at 11 E&RFTS, Perth in January 1938, as a pupil pilot. He was commissioned in Class ‘A’ of the RAFO at Uxbridge in March and posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill. On completion of his training, Kemp joined 64 Squadron at Church Fenton late in 1938. With his one year of service completed, Kemp returned to civilian life in January 1939.

APO (RAFO) 24.11.37 PO (RAFO) 23/9/38 PO 22.1.39 FO 22.8.40

33168

FO

611 Squadron

Kelsey, of Wyken, Coventry, joined the RAFVR about May 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. In September 1939 the FAA was short of pilots and after Kelsey was called up, he was posted to Donibristle and joined the Torpedo-Spotter-Reconnaissance Flight. He was later posted to 770 Squadron for deck-landing training on HMS Argus in the Western Mediterranean. He was offered a transfer to the FAA but declined and was posted to 3 BGS, Aldergrove, as a staff pilot. On May 4 1940 Kelsey was recalled to the FAA and joined 759 (T) Squadron at Eastleigh for a refresher deck-landing course. He was with 804 Squadron at Hatston by May 23 1940. By early June the RAF was short of pilots and Kelsey was recalled and posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on June 11, arriving there on the 17th.

APO 1.4.39 PO 21.10.39

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NIGEL LESLIE DIGBY KEMP 84941

PO

Pilot

British

He shared in the destruction of a He 111 E of The Hague on May 12. On August 19 Kennard shared in the probable destruction of a He 111, on the 20th he shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 and probably another and on the 21st he damaged a Do 17. He was posted away on the 29th to 306 (Polish) Squadron, then being formed at Church Fenton. He joined it on September 5 1940, as ‘A’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. He shared in damaging a Ju 88 SW of Birmingham on November 11. On May 14 1941 Kennard went to 121 Squadron, then reforming at Kirton-in-Lindsey, as a Flight Commander. He took command of the squadron in mid-January 1942. He damaged a FW 190 on April 12 and was awarded the DFC (30.6.42). On July 31, on a Circus operation to Le Crotoy, France, Kennard’s Spitfire, BL 234, was badly damaged by German fighters of JG 26. He was wounded but managed to recross the Channel and make a forced-landing at Lympne. During the operation he destroyed a Bf 109. Kennard relinquished command in September and was posted to HQ 11 Group on Operations Planning. From February to April 1943 Kennard was Air Adviser to the ViceAdmiral, Dover. He then went to Air Ministry, in the Directorate of Fighter Operations, until October 1944, when he was posted to command troops on the troopships Orduna and Queen Mary. In May 1945 Kennard was given command of 74 Squadron at Colerne. From September he commanded RAF Hawkinge and later Charter Hall. He left the RAF in June 1946 as a Wing Commander and formed his own civilian aviation business. Kennard commanded 500 Squadron, RAuxAF from January 1949 until September 1952. He died in 1995.

85 and 242 Squadrons

Born on July 24 1919, Kemp joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748694). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 12 FTS, Grantham on No 11 Course, which ran from June 9 to September 7 1940. He was commissioned and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 10 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, Kemp joined 85 Squadron at Church Fenton on September 29. He moved on to 242 Squadron at Coltishall on October 18. Kemp claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed on a bomberescort to Bethune on June 17 1941. He was awarded the DFC (7.10.41), having been very successful in attacks on enemy shipping. He went with 242 to Malta in November 1941. Kemp was released from the RAF in 1946 and rejoined in 1948. He retired on August 31 1966, as a Flight Lieutenant. Kemp was CFI at the Southampton School of Flying, Eastleigh in the 1970s. He died on March 13 2005. PO 7.9.40 FO 7.9.41 FL 7.9.42 FL 25.9.48

JOHN BEDFORD KENDAL PO

Pilot

British

616 and 66 Squadrons and 421 Flight Kendal, of Chepstow, was born on September 29 1920 and educated at Ardingly. He joined the RAFVR about April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745886).

APO 9.1.38 PO 25.10.38 FO 25.7.40 FL 25.7.41 SL 1.7.43 SL (RAuxAF) 14.1.49

Called up on September 1, he went to No 1 ITW, Cambridge, did his elementary flying at 22 EFTS, Cambridge and then completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 48 Course, which ran from May 27 to August 10 1940. Kendal arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 12, converted to Spitfires and was posted to 616 Squadron at Coltishall on September 2 1940. He passed four nonoperational weeks there and then went to 66 Squadron at Gravesend on September 29, his 20th birthday. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on October 2. Kendal’s Spitfire, X 4473, was damaged on the 5th, in combat with Bf 109s over Tenterden, during which he damaged a Bf 109. He returned to base at Gravesend, with a superficial wound in the leg. He was given 24 hours leave. On October 7 Kendal flew four sorties. On the final one his Spitfire, X 4473, was badly damaged by Bf 109s over Tenterden. He made a forced-landing at Detling, with wounds from four shell fragments in his side. He was admitted to Preston Hall Hospital, Maidstone and transferred to RAF Hospital, Halton. Kendal was non-effective sick from October 7 to 16. He rejoined 66 from Halton on October 11 and was sent on four days sick leave. He rejoined 66 on October 16. On the 17th Kendal flew a ‘Spotting Patrol’, on attachment to 421 Flight. Later in the afternoon he flew a patrol over Maidstone, with 66. On October 25 he probably destroyed a Bf 109. In 1941 Kendal volunteered for the MSFU. He was in the first Camship to sail in a Russion convoy, the Empire Morn. Convoy PQ 15 sailed from Hvalfjord, Iceland on April 26 1942 and arrived at Murmansk on May 6, having lost three ships to He 111 torpedobombers. The convoy, now numbered QP 12, sailed from Murmansk on May 21. Four days later Kendal was launched to attack enemy aircraft around the convoy. He destroyed a Ju 88. Later, at the limit of his fuel, Kendal baled out but his parachute did not function properly and he sustained serious injuries when he struck the sea. He was quickly picked up from the icy water but died soon afterwards. Kendal was the first MSFU pilot to destroy an enemy aircraft and he was the only one to die after an operational launching. His final action had been to radio the position of the dinghy of the Ju 88 crew. Kendal was buried at sea. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 67. He received a Mention in Despatches.

PETER FRANK KENNARD-DAVIS 42348

Pilot

British

British

64 Squadron

With training completed, Kennard-Davis joined 110 Wing, Ringway. He was later attached to the embryonic 7 AACU at Castle Bromwich on April 12 1940. The unit was officially formed on April 30 and Kennard-Davis was taken on the strength and his attachment from 110 Wing was terminated. He was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 5 1940 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 64 Squadron at Kenley on August 3. Five days later his aircraft caught fire during combat with Bf 109s over Dover and Kennard-Davis baled out. He suffered wounds to his head, chest, buttocks and legs, as well as a fractured pelvis. He was admitted to Royal Victoria Hospital and died there on August 10. The Spitfire, L 1039, crashed and burned out near West Langdon. Kennard-Davis was 19. He is buried in Brookwood Cemetery, Surrey. APO 22.7.39 PO 13.1.40

JOHN CONNELLY KENNEDY 40052

FO

Pilot

Australian

238 Squadron

Born in Sydney on May 29 1917, Kennedy, the son of a bookmaker who later ran a property business, was educated at St Charles’ School, run by the Franciscan Order and then Waverley, a senior school run by the Christian Brothers, where he was a prominent performer at various sports. On leaving school Kennedy worked for Bray & Holliday, shopfitters and studied accountancy. He joined the RAAF on July 15 1936, as an Officer Cadet and carried out his flying training at Point Cook. He left Australia in July 1937 and transferred to the RAF in August, on a short service commission. Kennedy was posted to No 1 FTS, Leuchars for a short flying course, after which he joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on December 19 1937. Promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant, Kennedy was posted to 238 Squadron at Tangmere on May 31 1940, as ‘A’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. After sharing in destroying a Do 17 over Chesil Beach on July 13, Kennedy’s aircraft was attacked by German fighters and he dived towards the coast. As he tried to make a forced-landing on the shore, he stalled and crashed at Southdown, Littlemore, trying to avoid HT cables. Kennedy, who may have been wounded, was killed in the crash. He was 23 and is buried in Holy Trinity Churchyard, Warmwell.

HUGH CHARLES KENNARD FO

Pilot

Kennard-Davis was born in Kensington, London on February 24 1920. He joined the Royal Navy at the age of 16 but went into the RAF on a short service commission in 1939 and began his ab initio course on May 30.

PO 10.8.40 FO 10.8.41

40396

PO

66 Squadron

Kennard joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 25 1937 at 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick. He was posted to 11 FTS, Shawbury on January 9 1938 and with training completed, he joined 66 Squadron at Duxford in August 1938. Kennard moved to 610 Squadron at Wittering on October 23 1939 but rejoined 66 Squadron on March 11 1940, also at Duxford.

PO 26.8.37 FO 26.5.39

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RONALD WILLIAM KENNEDY

GEORGE KENSALL

162542

1052337

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

604 Squadron

Kennedy, of East Dulwich, London, joined 604 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand (804283). Called up on August 24 1939, he remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and trained with the squadron.

AC

Radar Operator

He was killed on December 20 1943, as a Sergeant with 428 Squadron, operating in Halifaxes from Middleton St George, Co Durham. Kensall was 22 and is buried in Rheinburg War Cemetery, Germany. He was a member of the crew of Halifax LK 928.

JOHN ALEXANDER KENT 37106

FL

Pilot

Canadian

Kent joined the RAF on a short service commission in January 1935. He was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on March 15 and with training completed, he joined 19 Squadron at Duxford on February 29 1936. He moved to the Experimental Section, RAE, Farnborough on October 19 1937, in the Instrument, Armament and Defence Flight. Kent was awarded the AFC (2.1.39) for his work on balloon cable research. Whilst at RAE, he carried out

PETER LEWIS KENNER Pilot

British

264 Squadron

Kenner was born in Finchley and educated at Brentwood School, going on to Queen Mary College, London, where he read Engineering. He was a member of the London University Air Squadron from January 1938. He transferred to the RAFVR and was commissioned on June 20 1939.

300 collisions with cables. On May 13 1940 Kent was posted to the Photographic Development Unit at Heston. On July 15 he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden, converted to Hurricanes and joined 257 Squadron at Northolt on July 20. On the 23rd Kent went to the RAE at Farnborough until the 27th. Next day he joined 303 Squadron, then forming at Northolt. Kent was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on August 2. On September 9 Kent destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged a Ju 88, on the 15th he destroyed a Bf 109, on the 23rd he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged a FW 56, on the 27th destroyed a Ju 88 and on October 1 a Bf 109 and probably another. He was awarded the KW (18.9.40). Kent’s last flight with 303 was made on October 16. He was posted away on the 17th to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill. He was awarded the DFC (25.10.40) and on October 26 he took command of 92 Squadron, as an Acting Squadron Leader. Kent claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on November 1 and two Bf 109s and probably another on the 2nd. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (24.12.40) for his work with 303 Squadron. On March 5 1941 he was posted to 53 OTU, then about to be formed at Heston, to organise the Training Wing, as Wing Commander Flying. In early June Kent went to Northolt, to lead the Polish Wing. On June 21 he shot down a Bf 109, on the 27th destroyed one on the ground and on July 3 he destroyed one in the air and on the 20th he destroyed another and probably a second. On August 2 1941 Kent was appointed to lead the Kenley Wing. He destroyed Bf 109s on August 7 and 16. In mid-October he was posted back to 53 OTU, then at Llandow, and was awarded a Bar to the DFC (21.10.41). Late in 1941 Kent went on a lecture tour of Canada and the US. In June 1942 he commanded RAF Church Stanton and in October he went to HQ Fighter Command, as Wing Commander Training. Kent was posted to the Middle East in December 1942 and took command of 17 Sector, Benghazi. On January 25 1943 he damaged a Ju 88 near Benina. In August 1943 he was made Command Training Inspector at Air HQ, Air Defences Eastern Mediterranean. In mid-March 1944 Kent returned to the UK and was posted to CFS, Upavon for an instructor’s course, after which he took command of a satellite station of the AFU at South Cerney. In late August 1945 Kent went on a course at RAF Staff College and was then posted to Air HQ, British Air Forces of Occupation, as Wing Commander Operations Plans. In late 1946 he became Personal Staff Officer to Sholto Douglas, the Commander-in-Chief and Military Governor of the British Zone of occupied Germany. Kent retired from the RAF on December 1 1956 as a Group Captain. He died on October 7 1985. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in 1940.

Called up on September 1, Kenner completed his training and then went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum, on No 7 Course, which ran from May 20 to June 22 1940. Kenner went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 23 1940. He converted to Defiants and joined 264 Squadron at Kirton-inLindsey on July 9. The squadron went to Hornchurch on August 21. Kenner was shot down in combat with Bf 109s of JG 26 over Thanet on the 28th. He and his gunner, Pilot Officer C E Johnson, were both killed, when their Defiant, L 7206, crashed in flames on Sillibourne Farm, Hinxhill. Kenner was 21. He is buried in London Road Cemetery, Brentwood. He had a brother, Flight Sergeant J W Kenner, who died on May 29 1941, as a pilot serving with 37 Squadron, aged 25. He is buried in Ismailia Cemetery, Egypt. PO (RAFVR) 20.6.39

PETER KENNETT 82685

PO

Pilot

British

257, 303 and 92 Squadrons

Kent was born in Winnipeg on June 2 1914. He learned to fly at the Winnipeg Flying Club and obtained his license in November 1931. He joined the Northwest Aero Marine Company in 1932, obtained his commercial license in June 1933 and was the youngest commercial pilot in Canada.

PO 25.10.43

PO

25 Squadron

Kensall, of Blyth, joined the RAFVR in June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. He volunteered for aircrew duties and was sent on a short radar course. He completed his training and joined 25 Squadron at North Weald in early October 1940. He did two operational sorties, on October 5 and 7.

He was detached from 604 to 4 B&GS on December 3 1939, for a special air gunnery course. He rejoined 604 on January 14 1940. Kennedy served with 604 throughout the Battle of Britain and after the advent of Airborne Radar and the Beaufighter, he retrained as a Radio Observer. In May 1941 Kennedy joined 109 Squadron, formed from the Wireless Intelligence Unit at Boscombe Down. It was concerned with the development of radio countermeasures and new radar aids. Commissioned in October 1943, Kennedy was killed on March 26 1944, as a Pilot Officer with 192 Squadron, operating Mosquitos and Halifaxes from Foulsham on radar counter-measures. Kennedy was a member of the crew of Halifax lll, LW 626 tasked to provide electronic support for a Main Force attack on Essen. The aircraft was last heard from transmitting a weak SOS signal. It was believed that it had ditched off 60 miles off Cromer. The bodies of seven of the eight men on board were eventually recovered. Kennedy was 29. He is buried in the Wierhuizen Protestant Cemetery, Holland.

73032

British

3 and 605 Squadrons

Kennett, of Bexhill-on-Sea, joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748701). Called up on September 1, he completed his training, at 9 FTS, Hullavington. His course ended on July 26 1940 and he was commissioned next day. He joined 3 Squadron at Wick direct from 9 FTS. Kennett was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 18 1940 and after converting to Hurricanes, he rejoined 3 Squadron on the 31st and flew his first operational sortie on September 4. Kennett flew a further two sorties, both on September 11, before he moved to 605 Squadron at Croydon on the 30th. He rejoined 3 Squadron, then at Castletown, on October 20. He joined 46 Squadron at North Weald on November 11 1940 and then 17 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on December 21. In late March 1941 Kennett sailed in HMS Ark Royal for Malta. He flew off the carrier on April 3 and joined 261 Squadron. Eight days later he and Sergeant P H Waghorn intercepted a Ju 88 and may have shot it down. They were then jumped by Bf 109s and both shot down into the sea. Kennett got out of his Hurricane, Z 3036, and was seen swimming but by the time the rescue launch reached him he was dead. Waghorn was also lost. Kennett was 21. He is buried in Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Malta.

APO 15.3.35 PO 15.3.36 FO 15.9.37 FL 15.9.39 SL 1.12.40 WC 1.3.42 WC 1.7.47 GC 1.7.52

RAYMOND DUGDALE KENT 77358

PO

Air Gunner

British

235 Squadron

Born in 1905, Kent was commissioned in the RAFVR in February 1940, as a direct-entry Air Gunner. He probably joined 235 Squadron at North Coates in late March 1940, from No 1 Air Armament School, Manby.

PO 27.7.40

288

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

Practice camp at Southend. He returned to 312 Squadron on March 10 1944 and was appointed Commander of ‘A’ Flight. He remained with the Squadron until October 2. He was posted to the Czechoslovak Inspectorate General, in London, as a Training Officer. He remained there until he returned to Czechoslovakia on August 19 1945. Keprt was awarded the DFC on February 14 1945. On his return to Czechoslovakia, Keprt was assigned to 312 Squadron, which was now part of the Czechoslovak Air Force. The squadron was disbanded on September 30 1945 and he was sent as a Staff Officer to the Military Aviation Academy at Hradec Králové as a gunnery and bombing instructor. Following the Communist take-over in February 1948, the Czechoslovaks who fought for the Allies in the Second World War were regarded as being tainted by Capitalism and many were arrested, imprisoned and subjected to other persecution. On February 3 1949 Keprt was placed on ‘waiting leave’. He was dismissed from the Czechoslovak Air Force, and reduced in rank to Private, on December 31 1949. He was then only permitted to do menial work and was subjected to constant persecution and harassment from the Communist authorities. Keprt died on July 29 1976 at Brno, Czechoslovakia

He was detached to CGS, Warmwell on May 13, for a Gunnery Leader course. He rejoined 235 on June 14. No further details of service traced. Kent was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. APO 3.2.40 PO 16.3.40 FO 16.3.41 FL 16.3.42

VERNON CHARLES KEOUGH 81630

PO

Pilot

American

609 Squadron

Keough, of Brooklyn, New York, was an experienced professional parachutist and had made more than 500 jumps at shows and fairs in the United States. He also had several hundred flying hours as a stunt pilot with air circuses. With Americans, Tobin and Mamedoff, he volunteered to fly in Finland and when that country fell, they were told they could fly in France, with l’Armée de l’Air. They went to Paris, via Canada. The blitzkrieg of May had already started and they were ignored. They joined two Czech pilots in an attempt to steal two Potez bombers to fly to England. It failed and the two Czechs were killed by French guards. The three Americans then made their way to St Jean de Luz, boarded a ship and eventually reached London. After some initial problems, they were accepted by the RAF and on July 5 they went to 7 OTU, Hawarden, to convert to Spitifires. Keough joined 609 Squadron at Middle Wallop on August 8 and he flew his first operational sortie on the 18th, to patrol Ringwood. He shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on September 15. At 4 feet 10 inches tall he sat on cushions to fly a Spitfire. On September 19 Keough was posted to Church Fenton, to join 71 (Eagle) Squadron, then forming there with American volunteers. He, Tobin and Mamedoff, all from 609, were the first pilots to arrive. Keough failed to return from a scramble on February 15 1941. His Hurricane crashed into the sea two miles E of Chapel Point, six miles N of Skegness. The Skegness lifeboat picked a body out of the sea but it could not be positively identified. Keough was 29. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 33.

PO 25.05.41 FO 1942 FL 26.05.43

ROBERT GERALD KER-RAMSAY 37321

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

British

25 Squadron and FIU

Ker-Ramsay was with 23 Squadron at Wittering by April 8 1940. He moved to 25 Squadron at North Weald on April 29 and he was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on May 12. He was detached from 25 to AFDU, Northolt on June 4 1940, for an Air Fighting course, after which he rejoined his squadron. Ker-Ramsay was attached to FIU at Shoreham on September 11. He was the captain of an FIU Blenheim which failed to return from an operational patrol on the night of September 13. Ker-Ramsay and his crew of two, Sergeant G Dixon, observer and Sergeant E L Byrne, radar operator, baled out and were captured. The Blenheim, Z 5721, crashed into the Channel off Calais. In 1941 Ker-Ramsay was on the Escape Committee at Stalag Luft 1 (PoW No 249) and worked on two tunnels, which were discovered before completion. During his time at the camp, he is said to have worked on more than 100 tunnels. Whilst in Stalag Luft 3, he worked on the three simultaneous tunnels, Tom, Dick and Harry. He organised and controlled the exit during the mass breakout in March 1944 and unselfishly sacrificed his own escape. In April he was appointed Camp Security Officer and it was largely through his efforts that the camp had a reliable news service. He was also in charge of the radio at Westortimke from February to April 1945. Ker-Ramsay was made MBE (28.6.46) for services as a PoW. He retired from the RAF in 1948, as a Squadron Leader.

JOSEF KEPRT Sgt

Pilot

Ker-Ramsay was born on September 25 1916 at Parkgate, Cheshire. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 6 1935. He was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on October 19 and with training completed, he joined 17 Squadron at Kenley on June 28 1936. He moved to the staff of the Home Aircraft Depot, Henlow on February 11 1937 and then joined the staff at 8 FTS, Montrose on May 30 1938.

PO 5.7.40

68138

FL

312 Squadron

Keprt was born on June 28 1910 at Brno. He joined the Military Aviation Academy at Cheb as a cadet in 1928 and also went for further training at the Military Aviation Academy at Prost jov. He completed his fighter pilot training in 1934 and was assigned to the 34th Fighter Squadron of the 2nd Air Regiment at Olomouc, equipped with B-534 biplane fighters. After the German occupation of Czechoslovakia, on March 15 1939, the Czechoslovak Air Force was disbanded by the Germans and all personnel dismissed. Keprt was outspoken against the Germans which led to his arrest by the Gestapo in Olomouc in April 1939. He was released but threatened with being sent to a concentration camp should he continue to provoke anti-German sentiment. With other Czechoslovak former military personnel, he escaped to Poland and reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate in Krakow. He sailed from Gdynia to France. On arrival to France Czechoslovak airmen were required join the French Foreign Legion for a five year period with the agreement that should war be declared they would be transferred to French military units. When war was declared he was transferred to l’Armée de l’Air and assigned to Centre d’Instruction de Chasse at Chartres for training onto French equipment. On December 2 1939 he was posted to GC III /3, based at Toul-Ochey and equipped with MS-406 fighters. By mid-May 1940 it was re-equipped with Dw-520 aircraft. On May 13 1940 keprt shared a probable Hs 126, on May 14 he shared a probable Do17 and on June 16 he shared in the destruction of a Hs126. When France capitulated, Czechoslovak airmen were released from l’Armée de l’Air service and with other Czechoslovak airmen he was evacuated to England. On arrival to England Keprt was accepted into the RAF Volunteer Reserve and on September 5 was posted to 312 Squadront. Here he re-trained on Hurricanes. On a training flight on September 10 the engine of his Hurricane, L 1644, caught fire near Cambridge and he baled out at 1400 feet, landing safely. His aircraft crashed onto a railway line south of Cambridge. On October 11 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17z. On March 24 1941 he was posted to 96 Squadron, at Cranage. On August 2 he was injured when returning from a night-patrol in Defiant T 3294. His engine failed and he instructed his air gunner to bale out and tried to make a belly-landing at Cranage. He was taken to Wilmslow Hospital. After recuperation he returned to 312 Squadron. On August 19 1942 he participated in Operation Jubilee and was in combat over Dieppe. He completed his operational tour on August 10 1943 and was sent to 1 Delivery Flight at Croydon, where he delivered aircraft to operational squadrons. He was then posted as a gunnery instructor to 17 Armament

APO 30.9.35 PO 6.8.36 FO 6.4.38 FL 6.4.40 SL 1.3.41 WC 1.6.42 SL 1.6.44

ANTHONY KERSHAW 91191

PO

Pilot

British

1 Squadron

Kershaw, of Macclesfield, was educated at St Peter’s Court, Broadstairs and Rugby School. He was to go up to Christ Church, Oxford in October 1939. He was in the school Rugby XV and the Cricket XI, making a century against Marlborough at Lords in 1937 and another against Clifton in 1938. He also represented Rugby when the school won the Public Schools’ Rackets Championship at Queen’s Club in 1938. He played cricket for the Lancashire Second XI in 1939. Kershaw joined 613 Squadron, AAF on May 13 1939, as an officer designate and began flying training on June 5 as a pupil pilot. He was called to full-time service on August 26 and commissioned. He went to No 1 EFTS, Hatfield on October 30 and later to RAF College FTS, Cranwell for intermediate and advanced training. He completed his course there on July 13 1940 and rejoined 613 Squadron. Kershaw went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum on August 12, for further training. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge from there on September 4 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined No 1 Squadron at Wittering on the 21st. With two other pilots, Kershaw went on the squadron’s first offensive operation, on January 1 1941, strafing German installations between Calais and Boulogne. On a convoy patrol on March 19 1941, Kershaw was shot down by a Bf 109. He baled out but was too low. His body was picked up and landed at Newhaven the next day. He was 21 and was cremated at Manchester Crematorium. APO 26.8.39 PO 13.7.40

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JOHN WILLIAM KERWIN C 922

FO

Pilot

Canadian

operational. He was transferred to EAA301 of l’Armée de l’Air, at Chateaudun, in late 1939. After the French collapse in June 1940, the Polish pilots of EAA301, now at Marignane, near Marseilles, took an aircraft and flew to Algiers. From there they travelled to Casablanca and boarded a ship which took them to Gibraltar. Here they transferred ship and were brought to England, arriving in late July 1939. On arrival Kestler enlisted in the RAFVR at the RAF Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford. On September 21 1940 Kestler arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 111 Squadron at Drem on October 10. He was posted away to 605 Squadron at Croydon on December 4 1940. On April 7 1941, flying from Ternhill, in Hurricane Z318, he collided with a Spitfire IIb, P 8315, flown by another Czech pilot, Sergeant Josef Martinec, of 24 MU. Both pilots were killed Kestler is buried in St Mary’s churchyard, Market Drayton, Shropshire (Grave 103, SectionA.F).

1 (RCAF) Squadron

Kerwin was born in Toronto on May 7 1918. He was at the Royal Military College of Canada, but did, not complete the course apparently for financial reasons. He joined the RCAF and gained his wings on September 2 1939. He was posted to No 1 (RCAF) Squadron and travelled with it to the UK, arriving on June 20 1940. He was detached to RAF Uxbridge from July 5 to 9, for an R/T procedure course. On August 31 he claimed a Do 17 destroyed. On September 1 Kerwin was shot down in an engagement with Do 17s and Bf 110s. He baled out, with burns. His Hurricane, P 3963, crashed and burned out at Shipbourne. He destroyed a Do 17 and a Bf 110. He was posted to 112 (RCAF) Squadron on the 2nd, as non effective sick. Kerwin was notified of an impending posting to Canada on November 7 1940 and was repatriated later in the month. In 1942 he was commanding 111 (RCAF) Squadron in the Aleutians. He was killed on July 16 1942 when he struck a hill in fog. Kerwin is buried in Fort Richardson Port Cemetery, Alaska, having originally been buried at Fort Glenn, Umnak Island.

MICHAEL KEYMER 748504

British

British

65 Squadron

After leaving school, he worked on a chicken farm in Sussex and as a car salesman. Keymer learned to fly with the Civil Air Guard at Hamble. He was a car salesman in Bournemouth in 1939. He joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 7 1940. After converting to Spitfires, Keymer joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 4. He made his first flight with the squadron next day, flying practice. He became operational on the 10th, when he flew with 65 Squadron to Manston for forward readiness. He shared in the destruction of a Bf 109 on the 14th and on the 18th he shared in the probable destruction of two He 111s. Keymer was attacked by Bf 109s over the sea off Dover near the French coast on August 22, in Spitfire K 9909. His aircraft broke up and crashed in France. Keymer baled out, too low. He landed at the village of Bazinghen, breaking both legs, and he was still alive when, according to eye witnesses, he was shot by a German officer named Damberger. The body was wrapped in Keymer’s parachute and buried at the site. It was later laid to rest in Bazinghen churchyard. French people regularly laid flowers at the grave and a service is held each year at his grave. Keymer had two brothers who also attended Blundell’s. One of them, John Gilbert Keymer, served in the RAF and was a Sergeant-Pilot with 149 Squadron at Mildenhall when his Wellington failed to return from an operation to Hamburg on the night of May 10/11 1941. There were no survivors. One of his crew was Sergeant T N Menage who had served with 29 Squadron in the Battle of Britain.

IAN HERBERT KESTIN Pilot

Pilot

Keymer was born at Eastleigh Vicarage on May 21 1916. His father, the vicar, was serving in France as a padre with the Leicestershire Regiment at that time. Keymer was educated at Pinewood, Farnborough and Blundell’s at Tiverton, Devon, where he was a boarder in Westlake House.

FO 26.10.39

Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

Sgt

145 Squadron

Kestin, of Hatfield, Hertfordshire, was born on July 24 1917. Before the war he was instructing at the London Aero Club. He joined the Navy on September 15 1939 and after training at HMS Daedalus and HMS Raven he joined 758 Squadron. In early 1940 Kestin volunteered for a fighter course and on May 27 was sent on one at HMS Raven. He was at 7 OTU, Hawarden from June 17 1940 and attached to the RAF from June 23. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 145 Squadron at Tangmere on July 1. Kestin attacked a Hs 126 ten miles S of Hastings on August 1. His Hurricane, P 3155, was hit by return fire and crashed into the Channel. The Henschel was then shot down by Pilot Officer E C J Wakeham of 145 Squadron, who was himself killed one week later. A 40-minute search by Kestin’s section leader produced no sign of him or his aircraft. Kestin was reported ‘Missing’. He was 23 and is remembered on the Fleet Air Arm Memorial at Lee-on-Solent. Sub-Lieutenant 14.9.39

JOHN DOUGLAS KEYNES 88419

Sgt

Pilot

British

236 Squadron

OLDRICH KESTLER 787527

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

Keynes, of Thornton Heath, Surrey, joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745751). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and went to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth for No 5 Blenheim course, which ran from September 3 to 21 1940.

111 Squadron

Kestler was born on March 18 1913 at Cizice, Klatovy, Czechoslovakia.

He joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on September 27 and flew his first operational sortie on the 30th, patrolling Guernsey-Ushant. He was commissioned in November. Keynes was captain of a Blenheim, damaged by return fire from a BV 138 floatplane engaged over South-West Ireland on November 30. He returned to St Eval and he and his observer, Sergeant J E Symonds, were admitted to Truro Hospital, with splinter wounds. Keynes was killed on June 4 1943 as a Flight Lieutenant with 126 Squadron at Luqa, aged 29. He is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 6, Column 1.

He was in the Czech Air Force when the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939. He was demobilised on the 17th. With other airmen he travelled to Moravka, near Ostrava, and escaped over the border to Poland on June 10 1939. He reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate in Krakow. On July 27, together with other airmen, Kestler went by train to Gdynia where he was due to board the Kastelholm, bound for France. Whilst waiting to board, 2 senior Polish Air Force Officers arrived and demanded that the airmen remain in Poland and join the Polish Air Force. They threatened that, unless some volunteered to accept the demand, no-one would be allowed to board ship. Kestler and 12 others volunteered to remain in Poland. He was taken to the military airbase, at Deblin, south-west of Warsaw, where he, and the others, were employed as flying instructors. They were classed as civilians since the Polish authorities did not want to provoke Nazi Germany. Germany invaded Poland on September 1 1939. On September 2, Do 17 bombers were reported to be approaching Deblin. The CO of the training school ordered that the aircraft be evacuated to Pulawy, in eastern Poland, and Kestler flew one of the aircraft. As they took off bombs were already falling on the airfield and Poland was quickly defeated. Kestler, along with other military personnel, was evacuated to Romania and then travelled to Yugoslavia where he boarded ship bound for France. In France, Kestler remained with the Polish Air Force and was assigned to its airbase at Lyon-Bron, for re-training to French equipment. On completion of his training he was assigned to the 1st Observer Squadron of the Polish Air Force but the unit never became

PO 27.11.40 FO 27.11.41 FL 27.11.42

RUDAL KIDSON 41297

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

141 Squadron

Kidson was born in Wellington on May 7 1914. In 1931 he was a sapper in the 2nd Battalion, New Zealand Engineers, a territorial unit. He spent three years sheepfarming in the Marlborough area. In 1937 Kidson joined the Auckland Aero Club and obtained his ‘A’ licence in February 1938. He sailed to the UK at his own expense and applied for an RAF short service commission. He was provisionally accepted and began his elementary flying training at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield on August 29 1938. Kidson was posted to 3 FTS, Shellingford on November 12 and with his training completed, he went to 3 Air Observers’ School, Aldergrove on June 10 1939, as a staff pilot. On October 10 he joined 141 Squadron, then reforming at Turnhouse, with Gladiators

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Ju 87s, on the 15th and 16th two Bf 110s, on the 17th he destroyed a Bf 110 and probably another and on the 19th he damaged a He 111. At the request of the CO, the tired pilots of No 1 were withdrawn to England on May 24, to be replaced by new men. Kilmartin was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 28th, to instruct, but on June 11 he was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down. He crashed on the aerodrome there on August 16, in Hurricane P 3452, unhurt. On September 4 1940 Kilmartin rejoined 43 Squadron at Tangmere, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on the 6th and a Bf 109 on the 7th. The squadron went north to Usworth on the 8th. He was awarded the DFC (8.10.40). He was given command of 602 Squadron at Ayr in April 1941. He was posted away on May 10, to form 313 Squadron at Catterick but the posting was changed and he went instead to West Africa. Kilmartin took command of 128 Squadron at Hastings, Sierra Leone in March 1942 and led it until August, when he returned to the UK. In November he went to 504 Squadron at Middle Wallop, as a supernumerary Squadron Leader. He took command of the squadron in January 1943 and on March 30 was promoted to lead the Hornchurch Wing, which he did until May 30. In 1944 Kilmartin led the TAF Typhoon Wing. He was made an OBE (1.1.45) and retired from the RAF on July 8 1958 as a Wing Commander. His portrait was drawn by Cuthbert Orde in January 1941. Kilmartin died on October 1 1998.

and Blenheims. Kidson was detached for a short anti-gas course at RAF Uxbridge on October 15 1939. In April 1940 the squadron began to be equipped with Defiants and became operational on June 3. With no operational experience, it flew south to West Malling on July 12. Shortly after 09.00 hrs on the 19th twelve Defiants moved to the forward airfield at Hawkinge. At 12.23.hrs they were ordered off, to carry out an offensive patrol twenty miles S of Folkestone. Three were left behind with engine trouble. During the patrol, the nine Defiants were surprised by Bf 109s of III/JG 51 and in less than a minute four were shot down, three in flames, one of which was Kidson’s, L 7015. He and his gunner, Sergeant F P J Atkins, went down into the sea. Their names appear on the reredos in St George’s RAF Chapel of Remembrance at Biggin Hill. Kidson was never seen again and he is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 9. Atkins’s body was recovered and he is buried in Boulogne Eastern Cemetery. APO 29.10.38 PO 28.10.39

PETER KILLICK 144792

Sgt

Pilot

British

245 Squadron

Born on September 27 1919, Killick joined the RAFVR about June 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741726). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed training and went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 1 1940.

APO 31.5.37 PO 5.4.38 FO 5.11.39 FL 5.11.40 SL 1.12.41 SL 1.1.45 WC 1.1.53

JOSEPH RICHARD KILNER

After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 245 Squadron at Aldergrove on July 17. He flew his first operational sortie on the 21st. Killick stalled and crashed at Aldergrove on the 28th, cause unknown. He suffered severe head injury and a fractured arm and was admitted to Stanmills Military Hospital, Belfast. He was later transferred to RAF Hospital, Halton. His Hurricane, N 2593, was written off. He rejoined 245 from Halton, fit to fly, on October 16. He crashed on take-off on November 9 1940 and was again admitted to hospital. No further service details traced. Killick retired from the RAF on September 27 1970 as a Squadron Leader. He died in the early 1980s.

63783

Pilot

British

In August 1936 he was one of the earliest entrants in a scheme to provide pilots for the coming expansion of the RAF by creating a Reserve whereby prospective pilots would obtain leave of absence from their civilian employment for an eight week basic flying course at a civilian flying school and then supplement this with continuation training at weekends. He attended the de Havilland School of Flying at Hatfield from August 24 1936 until December 11 1937. The reserve scheme was subsumed into the RAFVR just as Kilner left Hatfield and took up training at 5 ERFTS Hanworth, moving again to 19 ERFTS Gatwick on November 30 1938 and then 22 ERFTS Cambridge on February 22 1939. Kilner was called to full-time service in May 1939 and went immediately to 65 Squadron at Hornchurch. Off Calais on May 26 1940 Kilner shared a probable Ju 88 and on the 28th he shared a Do 17 near Dunkirk. On July 5 he shared a He 111, on August 5, 12 and 13 he probably destroyed Bf 109s, on the 16th destroyed two Bf109s and damaged another and on the 20th he destroyed a Bf 109, probably another and damaged a Do 17. His service with 65 ended on December 8 1940 with a posting to CFS Cranwell for an instructor’s course. On completion of the course he started instructing at 14 SFTS Cranfield on January 10 1941. His time there ended in early August 1941, Kilner having being commissioned in April 1941. On August 18 he embarked on the Olaf Fostenes, unusually for wartime accompanied by his wife and daughter, which sailed for Montreal, Canada, arriving on the 28th. On the 31st he arrived at 34 SFTS, Medicine Hat, Alberta and instructed there until October 30 1943 when he took up another post at 36 OTU Greenwood, Nova Scotia. In preparation for his return to the UK Kilner passed through 1(Y) Depot, Lachine, Quebec on January 8 1944 and on to 31 PDU Moncton, New Brunswick four days later, before embarking on the Pasteur at Halifax, Nova Scotia on the 19th. After arriving at Liverpool on the 31st he was posted to 1 Personnel Despatch Centre, West Kirby before going to 13 OTU Bicester on February 15 to convert to the Mosquito. He then returned to operations with 21 Squadron at Hunsdon on March 28 1944. The squadron moved to Gravesend on April 17 and to Thorney Island on June 18, his posting ended on July 31 with Kilner taking up a staff position at HQ AEF in France. He was awarded the DFC (5.9.44), credited with seven enemy aircraft destroyed and four shared. Later that month he returned to the UK, serving at SHAEF, Stanmore until January 1 1945 when he went to the Air Ministry, Adastral House, London. Kilner was released from the RAF on July 31 1946 as a Squadron Leader. He immediately entered the civil aircraft industry on government work with evaluation and inspection roles, joining the Civil Aviation Authority in 1972 when it took over these functions. He had meanwhile obtained ATP licences for jet, turboprop and piston aircraft, later

249 Squadron

Killingback was born on February 15 1915 and joined the RAF in June 1935, as an Aircrafthand (520658). His basic trade in the RAF was Flight Mechanic. He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot in mid-August 1939 and was on No 16 Course at 6 FTS, Little Rissington, which began on November 6 1939. On May 10 1940 the course moved to 10 B&GS, Warmwell for armament training, the final stage of No 16 Course, which ended on May 17. Killingback went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 18th, converted to Hurricanes and then joined 249 Squadron at Leconfield on June 10. Killingback destroyed a Do 17 and probably a Bf 109 on September 7 in the MaidstoneSheerness-Canterbury area. He was wounded in the action, baled out and was admitted to hospital. His Hurricane, R 4230, is believed to have fallen near Eastling. On rejoining 249 on October 15 1940, he was posted to RAF North Weald, as non-effective sick and flew no more operational sorties during October. In the spring of 1941 Killingback was an instructor at 52 OTU, Debden. Commissioned in August 1941, he was released from the RAF in 1948 as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 21.8.41 FO 21.8.42 FL 21.8.43

JOHN IGNATIUS KILMARTIN 39793

FO

Pilot

Irish

65 Squadron

He was educated at Christ’s College, Finchley and then Torquay Grammar School. His first job, in 1933, was with a chartered accountant and he went on to spend a year as a car mechanic and another as a salesman for mechanical calculators.

FREDERICK WILLIAM GEORGE KILLINGBACK Sgt

Pilot British

Joseph Richard Kilner was born in Beckenham, Kent on October 11 1916.

PO 21.8.41 FO 21.8.42 FL 21.8.43 FL 30.9.46 SL 1.10.54

46560

Sgt

43 Squadron

Born in Dundalk, Ireland on July 8 1913, Kilmartin worked on a cattle ranch in Australia and as a bank clerk in Shanghai, where he was a professional jockey in his spare time. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on April 5 1937. He was posted to 6 FTS, Netheravon on June 5 1937 and on completion of training, he joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere on January 8 1938. Kilmartin was posted to No 1 Squadron in France on November 3 1939. He shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on the 23rd. On April 2 1940 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed, on the 20th a Do 17, on May 10 he shared a Do 17, on the 11th destroyed two Bf 110s, on the 12th a Bf 109, on the 14th two

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ANTHONY THOMAS JAMES KINDERSLEY

adding commercial ratings for helicopters. From 1968 to 1976 he was Chief Inspector of Flight Operations, overseeing the certification of UK airlines. He retired in May 1977. Kilner died on May 11 1986 and his ashes rest at the Church of the Holy Rood, Holybourne, Hampshire.

Lieutenant (FAA)

Pilot

British

615 and 73 Squadrons

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 10 1939. Kinder completed his training and joined 103 Squadron in France on June 12 1940, flying Battles. The squadron was withdrawn to Abingdon three days later. Kinder probably volunteered for Fighter Command in August 1940 and he joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick on September 9, moving to 73 Squadron at Castle Camps on the 15th. He crashed near Lightship 93, after an attack by Bf 109s on September 23, in Hurricane P 3226. He was rescued from the Thames Estuary and admitted to the Royal Naval Hospital, Chatham, with severe burns. Kinder was awarded the DFC (7.12.43), as a Flight Lieutenant with 166 Squadron, operating in Lancasters from Kirmington, Lincolnshire. He was released from the RAF in 1947 as a Flight Lieutenant.

Midshipman 1.5.33

Actg Sub-Lt 1.9.35

32199

SL

Pilot

British

Pilot

New Zealander

253, 249 and 151 Squadrons Born in Dover on June 7 1911, King was at Dulwich College from 1925 to 1929. After leaving, he worked for the Asiatic Petroleum Co. On August 12 1932 King joined the RAF on a short service commission and on the 27th he went to 2 FTS, Digby.

With training completed, King joined 26 (Army Cooperation) Squadron at Catterick on August 20 1933, moved to 31 Squadron at Karachi on February 14 1934 and returned to the UK in mid 1936. He went to the Home Aircraft Depot, Henlow on August 12, for an Officers’ Engineering Course. After a course at CFS, Upavon, King went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on June 15 1937, as an instructor. He was granted a Permanent Commission on August 12 1938 and joined the permanent staff of 612 Squadron, AAF at Aberdeen on September 12. He was OC of the Advanced Training Squadron at 11 FTS, Shawbury by mid-1939. King was posted from there to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum on June 10 1940. He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on June 25 and, after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 253 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey, on July 17, as a supernumerary Squadron Leader. He moved, in the same capacity, to 249 Squadron at Church Fenton on August 5. On the 14th the squadron moved to Boscombe Down. Two days later King was flying in a section of three, with Flight Lieutenant J B Nicolson and Pilot Officer M A King. Over Southampton they were jumped by Bf 109s. Nicolson was wounded and his subsequent actions led to the award of the VC. Pilot Officer King’s aircraft was set alight. He baled out but was killed when his parachute canopy collapsed as he neared the ground. Squadron Leader King managed to make a forced-landing back at Boscombe Down in his severely damaged Hurricane, P 3870, unhurt. On August 15 King damaged a Ju 88 and on the 21st he was posted away, to command 151 Squadron at Stapleford. He had the airscrew of his Hurricane, V 7380, shot off in combat with Bf 110s over North Weald on the 24th but landed safely. In the action he damaged a Do 17. King led the squadron to intercept some enemy aircraft on August 30. Later, he is thought to have gone ahead of the squadron, to investigate another enemy force heading towards Rochester. A letter from the Mayor of Rochester, written later, said that there had been some fighting over the city at a great height and an aircraft, almost certainly King’s, was heard to come down in a terrific power dive, engine at full throttle, and crash. King must have been unconscious or dead before impact. The Hurricane, V 7369, crashed in Temple Street, Strood. He is buried in Highgate Cemetery, London. At Dulwich College after the war, the ‘King Memorial Prize’ was instituted in his memory, two prizes to be awarded annually for work on aeronautical subjects. King is remembered on a memorial plaque at the College, unveiled on March 14 2002.

MAURICE CRAIG KINDER FO

Sub-Lt 23.11.36 FO 5.1.37 Lt 16.1.38

ERIC BRUCE KING

APO 2.9.39 PO 24.3.40 FO 24.3.41 FL 24.3.42

40836

808 Squadron

On July 8 1940 he joined 808 Squadron at Wick, flying Fulmars on dockyard defence. He was with the squadron when it embarked on HMS Ark Royal on October 22 1940. In 1941 the carrier was in the Mediterranean, protecting convoys to Malta. On May 8 Kindersley shared in destroying a SM 79 bomber. He was killed on July 25 1941, 808 Squadron Fulmar shot down by return fire whilst attacking some SM 79s, 120 miles SW of Sardinia. Petty Officer F A Barnes was also lost. Kindersley was 26. He is remembered on the Fleet Air Arm Memorial at Lee-on-Solent.

DOUGLAS STEELE KINDER PO

British

Kindersley, of Yarmouth, joined the Navy as a Cadet and passed out on September 1 1932. He was granted a temporary commission in the RAF for service with the FAA, as a Flying Officer, on January 5 1937. He relinquished this on July 26 1939.

PO 2.4.41 FO 2.4.42 FL 2.4.43

42611

Pilot

85, 607 and 92 Squadrons

The son of a surgeon, Kinder was born in Parnell, Auckland on May 29 1913. He made his first flight in 1931, to attend his grandmother’s funeral. In 1933 he was one of six people selected from three thousand for a scholarship at the Auckland Aero Club for lessons up to ‘A’ licence. He built and flew a Flying Flea in 1935 but his plan to build the aircraft for sale in New Zealand did not come about. Kinder applied for a short service commission in the RAF and was provisionally accepted in December 1937. He sailed for the UK in February 1938 in the RMS Remuera. He began his training at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield on April 4 and went on to 5 FTS, Sealand on June 18. With the course completed, Kinder was posted to No 1 Air Armament School, Manby on May 13 1939, as a staff pilot. He moved to 5 Air Observers’ School, Jurby on September 7 and carried out staff pilot duties until June 11 1940, when he went to 4 (C) Ferry Pilot Pool, flying aircraft and passengers to and from France. On September 3 Kinder was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 85 Squadron at Church Fenton on September 16. He moved to 607 Squadron at Tangmere on the 29th and then to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill on October 13. Kinder destroyed two Ju 87s on November 1 but was himself shot down by Bf 109s. Wounded and weak from loss of blood, he managed to crash-land beside the RamsgateCanterbury road. Some Australian soldiers came up and, thinking him dead, took his helmet, gloves and buttons as souvenirs. They were somewhat surprised when Kinder came to and swore at them. Too weak to climb out of the cockpit, he waited until an ambulance came to take him to Chartham Military Hospital. He was transferred to the RAF Uxbridge Hospital and after convalescence at Torquay, he rejoined 92, then at Manston. On February 5 1941 Kinder was posted to 91 Squadron at Hawkinge, in mid-March he went to HQ Fighter Command, on April 7 to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as an instructor, and on July 7 to CFS, Upavon for an instructor’s course. Kinder went to 61 OTU, Heston on September 18. On December 5 1941 he was posted to No 1 Beam Approach School, Watchfield for a course, and on the 22nd he went to Drem to help form 1528 VHF Beam Approach Training Flight. Kinder was eager to return to operations, the CO there later arranged for Kinder to take command, which he officially did on June 21 1942. He was posted to Hunsdon on November 11 1942, to form and command 1530 BAT Flight, which was visited by HM the King. Kinder went to a staff job at HQ ADGB, Bentley Priory on November 13 1943, transferred to the RNZAF on December 15 and was awarded the AFC (1.1.44). He was posted to HQ 83 Group on May 21 1944, moved to HQ 2nd TAF on June 23 and went to Brussels on October 21, on 85 Group Air Movements. After returning to England in early March 1945, Kinder was posted to 59 OTU, Acklington, as CGI. He returned to New Zealand on June 30 1946 and went on to the Reserve on October 18.

APO 12.8.32 PO 12.8.33 FO 12.3.35 FL 12.3.37 SL 1.8.39

FREDERICK HARRY KING 43845

PO

Air Gunner

British

264 Squadron

King, of Leicester, joined the RAF about September 1935, as an Aircrafthand (523466). He remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and was with 264 Squadron at Martlesham Heath in early 1940. From March 11 to April 13 1940, King was on No 4 (Gunnery Leader) Course at CGS, Warmwell. He flew, as gunner, with 264’s CO, Squadron Leader P A Hunter. On May 12 they

APO 4.6.38 PO 13.5.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.1.44

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destroyed a Ju 88, over Dunkirk on May 27 they destroyed a Bf 109 and shared a He 111, on the 28th destroyed two Bf 109s, on the 29th a Bf 109, a Bf 110 and a Ju 87 and on the 31st a Bf 109, a He 111 and damaged another. King was awarded the DFM (14.6.40) and commissioned from LAC on June 21. King and Hunter were last seen in pursuit of a Ju 88, after an attack on Manston on August 24 1940, in Defiant N 1535. King was 24. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 9.

squadron ORB is made on June 10 1940 and he was still with 236 on November 22 1940. He later qualified as a Pilot. King was killed on January 22 1943 as a Flight Lieutenant with 264 Squadron, based at Colerne and operating in Mosquitos. He was in Mosquito DD 662 which undershot and crashed one mile NW of Colerne while attempting a single engine landing. He was 31 and is buried in St Paul’s churchyard, Abbots Langley. Pilot Officer H B Bell was also killed in the crash. APO 3.2.40 PO 16.3.40 FO 16.3.41 FL 16.3.42

PO 21.6.40

DONALD ERNEST KINGABY 112406

Sgt

Pilot

LEONARD FRANK DOUGLAS KING 42612

PO

Pilot

British

Called up on September 1, he was at 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on No 6 Course, which ran from December 29 1939 to June 10 1940. He then went to 5 OTU, Aston Down and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on the June 24. Kingaby damaged two Ju 88s and a Bf 110 on August 12. He was wounded in the hand on the 18th and did not fly operationally again before being posted to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill on September 25. He damaged Bf 109s on September 27 and 30, shot down a Bf 109 and probably another on October 12, destroyed another on the 15th, shared a Bf 110 on the 20th, destroyed a Do 17 on the 24th, damaged a Bf 109 on the 25th, destroyed one on November 1, shot down three and probably another on the 15th and destroyed one on December 1. Kingaby was awarded the DFM (6.12.40) and was described in the newspapers as ‘the 109 specialist’. Between February 14 and October 3 1941, he destroyed eight Bf 109s, probably another four and damaged two. Kingaby was awarded a Bar to the DFM (29.7.41) and a Second Bar to the DFM (11.11.41), the only man to be so honoured during the war In early November 1941 Kingaby went to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as an instructor. Commissioned in November, he returned to operations in March 1942, with a posting to 111 Squadron at Debden. Kingaby moved to 64 Squadron at Southend in April. On June 2 he damaged a FW 190, on July 30 destroyed another and on August 17 he damaged another. Kingaby was posted to 122 Squadron at Hornchurch in early August, as a Flight Commander, and on the 19th, S of Dieppe, he destroyed a Do 217. Kingaby took command of the squadron in November, destroyed a Bf 109 on January 20 1943, shot down a FW 190 and damaged another on the 21st and shot down another on March 8. He was awarded the DSO (9.3.43) and promoted to Acting Wing Commander in April, to lead the Hornchurch Wing. In September 1943 Kingaby was posted to a staff job at HQ Fighter Command. In April 1944 he was posted to lead a Spitfire Wing, which would provide low-level cover for the invasion forces. He claimed his final victory on June 30 1944, when he shared in the destruction of a Bf 109. In July 1944 Kingaby was given command of the Advanced Gunnery School at Catfoss and remained there until the end of the war. In addition to his British awards, Kingaby received the C de G (Belg) in October1944 and the DFC (US) (15.5.45). He was granted a Permanent Commission after the war, was awarded the AFC (5.6.52) and retired from the RAF on September 29 1958, as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. He died on December 31 1990 in America, where he and his wife had moved, to be near their daughter. His ashes were interred at Bromley Hill cemetery, Bromley, Kent and in 1993 his widow unveiled a memorial to him in the chapel there.

He was with 64 Squadron at Kenley in early July 1940. His last recorded operational sortie with the squadron was made on August 11, during which he destroyed a Bf 109. Although there is no further mention of King in 64’s ORB, it seems likely that he was still with 64 when it moved to Coltishall on October 15 1940. He joined 616 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on December 24 1940. King moved to No 11 Air Observer Navigation School at Watchfield on February 14 1941, almost certainly to join the staff there. When 11 AONS disbanded on July 14 1941, he was posted to No 1 Blind Approach School, also based at Watchfield. King was killed on March 19 1945, as a Squadron Leader with 105 Squadron, operating in Mosquitos from Bourn in Cambridgeshire. His aircraft, MM 170, disappeared without trace.He was 26 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 265. Lost with King was Flight Lieutenant D P Tough. APO 2.9.39 PO 10.4.40 FO 10.4.41 FL 10.4.42

MARTYN AUREL KING PO

Pilot

British

249 Squadron

King joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 14 1939, as a pupil pilot. He completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 13 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 249 Squadron at Leconfield on June 9. King was shot down by enemy fighters over Southampton on August 16, during the action in which Flight Lieutenant Nicolson earned the VC. King baled out but was killed when his parachute collapsed during descent. His Hurricane, P 3616, is believed to be the one that crashed at Toothill, near Lee. He was 19. It was reported by the CO of 249 Squadron that, “it was found that a bullet or bullets or metal fragments had passed through the pack before it had been pulled.” King is buried in All Saints’ churchyard, Fawley, Hampshire. PO 23.10.39

PETER JAMES CHRISTOPHER KING 41298

PO

Pilot

British

266 and 92 Squadrons

Kingaby was born on January 7 1920 in Islington, London and was educated at King’s School, Ely. He afterwards worked in an insurance office in Cambridge. He joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745707).

64 Squadron

King of Windsor, Berkshire, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 10 1939, as a pupil pilot. He was at 11 FTS, Shawbury on No 15 Course, which ran from September 24 1939 to April 10 1940.

42845

British

66 Squadron

King, of Farnborough, Warwickshire, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 29 1938, as a pupil pilot. With training completed, he joined 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on November 4 1939.

PO 15.11.41 FO 30.6.42 FL 30.6.43 SL 24.7.44 SL 1.1.49

CHARLES BRIAN FABRIS KINGCOME 33319

After converting to Spitfires, King joined 66 Squadron at Duxford on December 12. He destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another on September 4 1940 and although his aircraft was badly damaged in a combat over Dover, he returned safely to Kenley. King was shot down next day by Bf 109s over the Medway. He baled out and was killed when his parachute failed. His Spitfire, N 3060, crashed into the sea off Hoo Marina. King was 19. He is buried in St Botolph’s churchyard, Farnborough.

Air Gunner

British

British

92 Squadron

On May 27 Kingcome joined 92 Squadron at Northolt, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. He claimed two He 111s destroyed and another probably destroyed on June 2, shared in destroying Ju 88s on July 10 and 24, probably destroyed a Bf 109 on September 9, destroyed a He 111 on the 11th, damaged two Bf 109s on the 14th, damaged a Do 17 on the 15th and shared a Ju 88, probably destroyed a He 111 and damaged another on the 18th. Kingcome destroyed a Bf 109 on the 23rd, damaged a Ju

WILLIAM LAURENCE KING PO

Pilot

Born in Calcutta on May 31 1917, Kingcome was educated at Bedford and he entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1936, as a Flight Cadet. He joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on July 30 1938 and was still with it in 1940.

APO 29.10.38 PO 29.8.39 FO 3.9.40

77359

FO

236 Squadron

King, of Watford, joined the RAFVR in February 1940, with a direct-entry commission as an Air Gunner. He completed his training in mid-March and joined 236 Squadron at North Coates, serving with it in the Battle of Britain. The first mention of him in the

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He joined 608 Squadron, AAF on June 10 1939 to train as a pilot. He was called up in late August. Kirk went to No 6 EFTS, Sywell, Northamptonshire on October 21 for ab inito training. He moved on to No 8 FTS, Montrose. On June 29 1940 he was posted to No 7 OTU, Hawarden. He joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on July 15. He made his first flight with the squadron on July 17, made two further flights on that day, then flew again on every other day of July, with the exception of the 18th and the 30th. This daily flying continued into August and Kirk became operational on the 9th, flying with the squadron to Manston, for forward readiness. On August 11 he probably destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged another. On September 14 Kirk shared in damaging a He 111. On October 20, after damaging a Bf 109, he was himself shot down over Maidstone. He baled out, severely wounded and was admitted to Preston Hall Hospital. His Spitfire, P 7370, crashed at Coxheath. Kirk was treated at a number of hospitals and on Janaury 23 1941, to his distress, was discharged from the RAF as “physically unfit for Air Force service”. Kirk died of his wounds on July 22 1941, aged 22. He is buried in St Oswald’s churchyard, East Harlsey. In 2001 a plaque was unveiled in Kirk’s memory at Northallerton College, formerly the Grammar School. Kirk’s elder brother, Squadron Leader Harry Kirk, served as a pilot in the RAF and survived the war, despite being shot down in a combat with Italian fighters over the Abyssinia-Sudan border in a Gauntlet of 112 Squadron. He was a prisoner of the Italians for five months before being released by British troops.

88 and a Bf 109 on the 24th, got a probable Do 17, damaged another, shared a Ju 88 and damaged two others on the 27th, destroyed a Bf 109 on October 11, destroyed two more and damaged a third on the 12th and destroyed another on the 13th. On October 15 Kingcome was shot down in combat with Bf 109s. He baled out, wounded, and was admitted to the Royal Naval Hospital at Chatham. His Spitfire, X 4418, crashed at Wyborne’s Farm, High Halstow. Kingcome was awarded the DFC (25.10.40). He rejoined 92 Squadron on December 23 1940, after recovery. On June 16 1941 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and on July 24 destroyed another. Kingcome was posted away in August to 61 OTU, as a Flight Commander. He returned to operations in February 1942, taking command of 72 Squadron at Gravesend. He damaged a FW 190 on April 15 and got a probable Bf 109 on May 27. In late June 1942 Kingcome was promoted to Acting Wing Commander, to lead the Kenley Wing. On August 27 he damaged a FW 190. He was posted in late 1942 to Charmy Down, where the Fighter Leaders’ School was being formed. He was awarded the DSO (15.12.42). In May 1943 Kingcome was posted to Malta, to lead 244 Wing, which flew in support of the Eighth Army in Sicily and Italy. After the invasion of Italy, he was promoted to Acting Group Captain. Kingcombe went on a course to the RAF Staff College Haifa, in October 1944 and in March 1945 became SASO at 205 (Heavy Bomber) Group. He remained in Italy after the war’s end, then moved to Egypt, where he was mostly concerned with repatriating troops to the UK. In mid-1946 Kingcome was posted to command 324 Spitfire Wing at Zeltweg, Austria. He held various staff appointments and instructed at RAF Staff College before being invalided out of the RAF on January 26 1954 as a Wing Commander, retaining the rank of Group Captain. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in 1941. Kingcome died on February 19 1994. PO 30.7.38 FO 30.1.40 FL 30.1.41 SL 1.3.41 WC 8.1.44 WC 1.1.50

JAMES CHARLES KIRKPATRICK 81630

PO

Pilot

Belgian

235 Squadron

ROBERT AUSTIN KINGS 82953

PO

Pilot

British

238 Squadron

Kirkpatrick, a member of the Aviation Militaire Belge, arrived in England in June 1940 and was commissioned in the RAFVR.

Born on October 22 1914, Kings joined the RAFVR about July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741794) and began training at 29 E&RFTS at Luton. Called up on September 1 1939, he was posted to 3 ITW, Hastings on December 13 and moved on to 14 FTS, Kinloss on March 12 1940 and finished the course on August 2.

He was at 5 OTU, Aston Down from July 12 to August 3, to convert to Blenheims. He joined 235 Squadron on August 5. He was reported ‘Missing’ after a combat over the Channel on October 9, in Blenheim N 3530. The bodies of the members of his crew, Pilot Officer R C Thomas and Sergeant G E Keel, were recovered. Kirkpatrick was 25. He has a memorial grave in the Pelouse d’Honneur Cemetery of Brussels at Evere and he is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 9.

Kings went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 7 and after converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 238 Squadron at St Eval on the 31st. He damaged a He 111 on September 25 and was himself shot down by a Bf 110 in combat over the Isle of Wight on the 26th. Kings baled out, unhurt. His Hurricane, P 3830, is believed to have crashed on Coleman’s Farm, Porchfield. He destroyed a He 111 in the action. Four days later he baled out again, after colliding with Pilot Officer V C Simmonds, during a routine patrol. Kings was injured in a heavy landing because of a damaged parachute, which had ripped on the tail of his aircraft. His Hurricane, L 1702, crashed near Shaftesbury. Kings was admitted to hospital and did not rejoin 238 until November 15. However he was judged to be not fully fit and he was put on administrative duties somewhere and did not return again to 238 until December 22, this time fit to fly. The squadron embarked on HMS Victorious on May 17 1941, en route for the Middle East, but was delayed when the carrier was involved in chasing the Bismarck. After returning to Scotland to refuel, it set off again for the Mediterranean. On June 14 Kings flew off S of Majorca, for Malta. Refuelled, the squadron flew to Egypt the next day and on the 19th was attached to 274 Squadron in the Western Desert. On September 16 1941 the 238 pilots were flown to Takoradi, to fly back Hurricane 11cs. On November 26 Kings was shot down in a sweep over Sidi Rezegh and made a forced-landing in the desert. He was picked up by members of the 22nd Armoured Brigade and finished up in Tobruk. Kings was posted to the ADU in the Delta on April 30 1942 and remained with it until May 17 1945, when he returned to the UK. In November 1945 he was posted to India, served at RAF Poona and Calcutta and returned to the UK in November 1947. During his war service he was Mentioned in Despatches. Later trained in Air Traffic Control and Radar duties, Kings retired from the RAF on October 27 1964 as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. He died in April 2013.

PO 12.7.40

MARK TYZACK KIRKWOOD 39287

FL

Pilot

British

610 Squadron

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 12 1936, as a pupil pilot. Kirkwood was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on January 16 1937, completed his training and then joined the staff at 3 Armament Training Station at Sutton Bridge on May 4 1938. He was with 4 Ferry Pilot Pool, when he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 6 1940. He converted to Spitfires, joined 610 Squadron on the 22nd and moved to 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on November 4 1940. On the 7th Kirkwood shared in the destruction of a Bf 110. He was reported ‘Missing’ on November 8, when he failed to return from a combat with Ju 87s and Bf 109s E of Deal, in Spitfire P 7285. Kirkwood is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 4. APO 21.12.36 PO 12.10.37 FO 12.7.39 FL 3.9.40

DAVID IAN KIRTON 550500

PO 3.8.40 FO 3.8.41 FL 3.8.42 FL 1.9.45

Sgt

Pilot

British

65 Squadron

Born in Dover on June 2 1919, Kirton was educated at St James School, Dover and the County School for Boys there. He left in 1935 and joined the RAF later in the year as a Boy Entrant.

THOMAS BRIAN KIRK 808416

Sgt

Pilot

British

74 Squadron

At some time Kirton was posted to the RAF School of Photography at Farnborough. He applied for pilot training, was selected and on June 12 1939 he began his ab initio course at 22 E&RFTS, Cambridge. He went on to 6 FTS, Little Rissington in mid-August. Kirton completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU on March 23 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 501 Squadron at Tangmere on April 27. His stay was brief and on May 5 1940 he was posted to 65 Squadron at Hornchurch.

Brian Kirk was born on February 1 1919 at his family’s farm at Sunny Hill, Thorntonle-Street, Yorkshire. The family later moved to Harlsey Castle Farm, near West Harlsey. Kirk went to East Harlsey Church of England Primary School and then Northallerton Grammar School. On leaving school he worked on the farm and became a very good shot.

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On August 8 he was killed, when he was shot down in flames, in combat with Bf 109s over Manston, in Spitfire K 9911. Kirton was 21. His father, Royal Navy Electrical Artificer 3rd Class J H Kirton, died of pneumonia on November 9 1918, aged 27, serving at the shore establishment HMS Tarlair in Scotland. Father and son are both buried in St James’ Cemetery, Dover. Kirton Close on the site of the former airfield at Hawkinge is named in David Kirton’s honour. Kirton’s brother, Squadron Leader J H Kirton, was killed on January 1 1944, aged 27, serving with 84 OTU. He was flying a Wellington which crashed in unknown circumstances. He is buried in Desborough Cemetery, Northamptonshire. Both Kirtons lost in the RAF were remembered on a bench sponsored by their mother in Granville Gardens, Dover.

Kitchener was still with 263 in 1941. On March 5 he damaged a Ju 88 off Land’s End, as he pursued it towards France. Return fire damaged both engines of his Whirlwind, P 6988 and the port one actually cut out. He was escorted back to Falmouth by his No 2 and instead of baling out, Kitchener decided to try and land at Predannack. As he approached, the second engine cut out and he crashed. Pulled out of the cockpit just before the aircraft exploded, he was taken to hospital, with a fractured skull and a broken arm. After recovery, he spent two years in the Operations Room at 60 OTU, East Fortune. He was awarded the Norwegian War Cross in October 1942. Late in 1943 Kitchener went to Air Ministry and then Farnborough for a course on Flying Accident Investigation, after which he was posted to an investigation unit in the Middle East. Released from the RAF in November 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant, he again went to work in local government in Kent. Kitchener retired in 1979. He died on July 7 2010.

SZYMON KITA

THOMAS ROY KITSON

P 781003

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

PO 29.10.40 FO 29.4.41 FL 29.4.42

85 and 253 Squadrons

41934

PO

Pilot

British

Kita was born in 1916. He arrived in England in early 1940 and enlisted in the RAFVR on March 1 1940 at RAF Eastchurch.

245 Squadron

Kitson attended Chorley Grammar School. He was an outstanding athlete and won the Victor Ludorum. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on February 6 1939, as a pupil pilot.

On June 1 the waiting Poles were moved to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await further postings. Kita went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum, for the 4th Polish Pilots’ Course, for testing and grading, from August 12 to 19. He then went to 5 OTU, Aston Down, converted to Hurricanes and joined 85 Squadron at Castle Camps on September 12 1940, Kita moved to 253 Squadron at Kenley on the 30th. He was shot down in combat on December 1 and he made a crash-landing at Falmer, in Hurricane P 3678, injured. In this action he probably shot down a Bf 109 but no claim was made. Kita later served with 287 (AACU) Squadron. On April 9 1942 he went to RAF Lyneham and flew to the Middle East, to join No 1 ADU. He returned to the UK in March 1944 and went to 25 EFTS on June 10, as a staff pilot. On November 1 Kita was posted to 16 FTS, Newton, for a refresher course, and moved to 3 (P) AFU for advanced flying training on March 20 1945. In September 1945 Kita went to the PAF Depot, Blackpool and was released in March 1946, as a Flight Sergeant. He was awarded the KW and Bar (31.10.47).

With training completed, he joined 245 Squadron on November 6 1939, which had been recently reformed at Leconfield. ‘A’ Flight of 245 was in France from May 16 to 20 1940. Kitson was badly wounded in action there and the squadron ORB for May 21 states that he had returned to England and that he was non-effective sick. He rejoined from sick leave on July 18. On March 10 1941 Kitson flew a Blenheim to Blackpool for weekend leave. Heading back to Aldergrove on the 13th, he crashed while taking off from Squires Gate and both he and his passenger, Warrant Officer R W Johnson, another pilot from 245, were killed. Kitson was 24 and was cremated at Carleton Crematorium, Blackpool. He had a brother who lost his sight over Germany in RAF service. APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40

STEFAN KLECZKOWSKI HERBERT HORATIO KITCHENER 87209

PO

Pilot

British

76717 PO

Polish

302 Squadron

263 Squadron He was born on September 2 1917 and commissioned in the RAFVR in late January 1940, probably at RAF Eastchurch.

Kitchener was born on August 30 1914 in Crowborough, Sussex. He was educated at Uckfield Grammar School, after which he worked in local government service.

On June 1 Kleczkowski would have moved to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. He was on the 5th Polish Pilots’ Course at No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum from August 23 to September 1 1940, for testing and grading. He then went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, converted to Hurricanes and joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield on the 23rd. On October 17 Kleczkowski took off on an afternoon patrol in Hurricane V 6735 and made a forced-landing near Sittingbourne one hour later. No injuries were reported but on the 28th he was posted to RAF Northolt as non-effective sick. Kleczkowski rejoined 302 on October 31 and flew an operational sortie next day. He was with the squadron until February 9 1941, when he was posted as a staff pilot to 10 B&GS. Kleczkowski later instructed at 16 FTS, Newton. He returned to operations on October 7 1944, joining 303 Squadron at Coltishall. Kleczkowski was awarded the KW (27.9.45). He went to RAF Hethel on June 5 1946 and was released from the PAF in December 1946. He died in 1992.

He joined the RAFVR in August 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740755). He completed his flying training and after qualifying as a pilot, during Spring 1939, he did a six-week operational training course on the Hurricane at RAF Andover. Called up on September 1, he helped to transfer training aircraft from 23 E&RFTS, Rochester to Belfast. Kitchener then went to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down and from there, on September 19 1939, he joined 605 Squadron at Tangmere. On October 11 he was posted to 263 Squadron, then being formed at Filton. In early 1940 the squadron was preparing for a posting to Finland but when the fighting ended in March 1940 the scheme was abandoned. On April 24 the squadron was in Norway, to operate from the frozen Lake Lesjaskog. After all their Gladiators became unserviceable, 263’s personnel were evacuated to the UK, for the squadron to re-equip. The squadron again went to Norway, on May 18 1940, to operate from Bardufoss. Patrols were flown and some victories were scored before the Allied forces were evacuated from Narvik on June 6. Kitchener shared in the destruction of a Ju 90 on May 25 and on June 2 he probably destroyed a Ju 87, shared in the destruction of three He 111s and in the probable destruction of another two. These shared victories were made with Flight Lieutenant Williams of 263 Squadron. Kitchener returned to the UK in the SS Arandora, being luckier than other members of 263, who sailed earlier in the aircraft carrier HMS Glorious, sunk en route back by the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau on May 28, with heavy loss of life. In June 1940 263 began to re-equip with Hurricanes and in July one flight received Westland Whirlwinds. The squadron was based at Drem from June 12, moved to Grangemouth on the 28th and returned to Drem on September 2 1940. Kitchener was awarded the DFM (7.8.40) for his services in Norway. He was commissioned in late October 1940.

PO 29.1.40 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.3.42

ZYGMUNT KLEIN 780685

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

234 and 152 Squadrons

Klein was born on August 24 1918. In September 1939 he was with 142 Eskadra, flying PZL P 11s. He arrived in England in early 1940 and enlisted in the RAFVR in February, at RAF Eastchurch.

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On September 17 1941 Knight destroyed a Bf 109. He was killed in a sweep over France on the 27th, aged 24 in Spitfire VB AD 207. Knight is buried in Dunkirk Town Cemetery.

The Poles there moved up to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool on June 1 1940. Possibly Klein carried out his testing and grading at 15 EFTS, Redhill. It is also very likely that he was one of five Polish Sergeant-Pilots who arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down between July 18 and 21 1940. After converting to Spitfires, Klein joined 234 Squadron at St Eval on August 4. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on August 16, a Bf 110 destroyed on September 4 and he probably destroyed a Do 17 and a Bf 109 on the 7th. Klein moved to 152 Squadron at Warmwell on October 5 and damaged a Bf 110 on the 7th.He made a crash-landing near Torquay on November 26, out of fuel. He was reported ‘Missing’ two days later, believed shot down into the Channel by Bf 109s in the Isle of Wight area, in Spitfire P 9427. His body was never recovered. He is believed to have damaged a Bf 110 in the action. Klein was posthumously awarded the KW. He is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt.

APO 20.4.36 PO 17.2.37 FO 17.11.38 FL 3.9.40

WILLIAM RODNEY ALEXANDER KNOCKER 74333

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

54 Squadron

He completed his training, as a bomber pilot at Sadkow, and was posted to an Air Force Regiment. He returned to Bydgoszcz as an instructor. In September 1939 he was evacuated with student pilots from Krosno to Romania. He reached France on November 12 and then moved on to England in early February 1940. Klozinski was enlisted in the RAFVR on February 9 at RAF Eastchurch. The Poles moved up to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool on June 1 1940, to await further postings. He carried out his testing and grading at 15 EFTS, Redhill, after which he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden, arriving there on July 15. He converted to Spitfires and joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 9. He made his first flight that day, to Sutton Bridge for air firing, carried out with three other SergeantPilots, also newly arrived from 7 OTU. Klozinski probably destroyed two Bf 109s on August 12, on his first operational sortie. Three days later he crashed at Hythe, shot down by Bf 109s in combat over Dover, in Spitfire R 7015. Severely wounded, Klozinski was admitted to Ashford Hospital. He did not recover fully until October 1942 and was then unfit for flying duties. He was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on November 5 1942, as a Link Trainer instructor. He went to 61 OTU on October 15 1943 on the same duties and to 14 Base at RAF Faldingworth on January 12 1945. After release from the PAF, Klozinski went to Canada on August 24 1945 and later changed his name to V K Stewart. He was awarded the KW and Bar (15.7.41).

Pilot

British

264 Squadron

PO 14.10.39 FO 26.9.40 FL 26.9.41 SL 8.12.44

LENNERT AXEL KOMAROFF 118438

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

141 Squadron

Komaroff was born in China on May 27 1917. His father was a merchant who travelled widely. L A Komaroff was educated at the Cathedral School, Shanghai, in Berlin and then at Sevenoaks School, where the Headmaster was appointed as his guardian. He represented School House at rugby. On leaving school he went back to Shanghai and worked for the Reuters news agency. He moved on to work in the tobacco trade. He played rugby, served in the Armoured Car Company of the Shanghai Volunteer Corps and studied Mandarin. Komaroff returned to the UK and joined the RAFVR, training as a pilot. He was assessed as unlikely to make sufficient progress in wartime and in September 1939 he re-mustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner (903367). He completed his gunnery training and was with 141 Squadron at Turnhouse in early July 1940. The squadron began to change its Defiants for Beaufighters from August 1941. Komaroff retrained as a Radio Observer and on August 25 1941, flying with Flying Officer I H Cosby (q.v.), he assisted in the destruction of a Ju 88 S of the Isle of Wight. Commissioned on March 11 1942, Komaroff was posted on January 1 1943 to 51 OTU, Cranfield to instruct radio navigators. He joined 29 Squadron on March 5 1943, operating Beaufighters from West Malling and, from May, Bradwell Bay. On June 5 Komaroff was aloft with Flight Lieutenant C Kirkland in Beaufighter 1F X7826. They engaged a Junkers 88 over the Thames Estuary. The Beaufighter was badly damaged by return fire. The pilot managed to return to Bradwell Bay but Komaroff was injured. The aircraft was written off. The squadron went over to Mosquitos and eventually moved to Hunsdon. On September 19 1944 Mosquito NF XIII MM 463 set out on an intruder sortie but was recalled due to bad weather. The aircraft came down, cause unknown, near Groede in the Scheldt Estuary. Komaroff and the pilot, Flight Lieutenant. H H West, were both killed. Komaroff was 26. He is buried in Bergen-op-Zoom Cemetery.

ROLAND ANTHONY LEE KNIGHT FL

British

He was called to full-time service on September 1 1939, went to No 1 ITW, Cambridge in November 1939 and was posted to RAF College FTS, Cranwell on January 1 1940, on the second war course. He was detached to 5 FTS, Sealand for a few days in May, for conversion to Masters, after which he returned to Cranwell, where the course ended on June 1. Knocker then went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum, on No 8 Course, which began on June 3 but ended abruptly on the 10th, when the twenty officers on the course were posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down. After converting to Defiants, Knocker joined 264 Squadron on June 19. In its last spell of day-fighting, he claimed a Ju 88 destroyed and a Bf 109 damaged on August 24 1940. Knocker was flying Defiant N 1547 on November 15, when it caught fire. On an emergency approach, he hit a tree, crashed and burned out on Rochford Golf Course. He was unhurt but his gunner, Pilot Officer F A Toombs, was badly burned and died of his injuries. In May 1941 Knocker was shot down over London by anti-aircraft fire and he baled out. He was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Wing Commander. He later went to live in Kenya and established a business there. Knocker died on December 27 1990, aged 70.

Born on February 26 1915 at Kaznad in Germany, Klozinski entered the PAF NCOs’ Training School at Bydgoszcz in 1931. He passed out in 1934, as an aircraft mechanic and with some elementary flying training.

37772

Pilot

Knocker was at Wellington College from 1933 to 1938 and then St John’s College, Oxford, where he read Law. He was a member of the University Air Squadron and was enlisted in the RAFVR, with other members of the squadron, on June 15 1939, with Airman number 754282.

WOJCIECH KLOZINSKI 780465

FO

23 Squadron

Knight was born in Fareham, Hampshire in 1917 and educated at Bedford Modern School. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on February 17 1936, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 2 FTS, Digby on May 2. With his training completed, he joined 23 Squadron at Northolt on January 10 1937. He was still with the squadron in 1940 and he was ‘A’ Flight Commander by June 18, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. Knight flew his last operational sortie with 23 on September 10 1940 and on the 13th he joined 419 (Special Duties) Flight. This unit, part of 11 Group, was to be responsible for ferrying MI 6 and SOE agents in and out of Occupied Europe. It flew its first operation from Stradishall, on the night of October 19/20 1940, when an MI 6 agent was picked up from France. Knight was posted from 419 Flight on December 17, joining 145 Squadron at Tangmere, as a supernumerary. On January 20 1941 he joined 91 Squadron at Hawkinge, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. On March 6 he damaged a Do 17, on April 7 he destroyed a Bf 109 on the ground, on May 5, 18 and June 17 he destroyed Bf 109s, on the 21st he shot down a Bf 109 and probably another and on the 26th he damaged one. Knight shared a Bf 109 and damaged another on July 3 and got another probable on the 8th. He was awarded the DFC (5.8.41). He claimed a probable Bf 109 on August 14 and was posted to Hornchurch on the 21st, to take command of 403 (RCAF) Squadron.

PO 11.3.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 11.3.44

JOSEF KOMINEK 787980

F/Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

310 Squadron

Kominek was born in Prague on October 31 1913. He joined the Czech Air Force and, after he completed his training as a pilot, at the Prostejov Flying School, he joined the 2nd Air Regiment. After the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939, he was demobilised on the 17th. He later went to Poland and reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate, in Krakow. Instead of travelling to France he joined the Polish Air Force. He was taken to the military airbase, at Deblin, south west of Warsaw, where he, and the

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re-applied to join the RAF. He was accepted but with a lower rank than previously so he and his family emigrated to Rhodesia where he retrained as an electrician. Kopecky died on August 19 1983 in Zimbabwe.

others, were employed as flying instructors. They were classed as civilians since the Polish authorities did not want to provoke Nazi Germany. On September 1 1939, Germany invaded Poland and the next day the Luftwaffe made an air raid on Deblin in which Kominek was wounded. Kominek, along with other military personnel, was evacuated to Romania and then travelled to Yugoslavia where he boarded ship bound for France. On arrival in France Kominek remained in the Polish Air Force and it is believed that he retrained with Polish units in France. When France capitulated, Kominek, together with other Polish and Czechoslovak airmen, was evacuated, on June 19 1940, from Bordeaux, on board the Karanan, which arrived in Falmouth on June 21 1940. On arrival in England Kominek enlisted in the RAFVR and joined 310 Squadron at Duxford on July 15 1940 from No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge. He flew his first operational sortie, in a Hurricane Mk1, on August 23, on a convoy patrol. On September 3 Kominek probably destroyed a Do17, on the 15th he destroyed a Do17z, and on the 27th he destroyed a Bf 109. He was on patrol in Hurricane L 1842 on November 2 1940, when it caught fire. He baled out, unhurt, and landed safely at Eastchurch. The aircraft crashed on to a bungalow at Warden, Sheppey. Kominek was killed on June 8 1941, in Hurricane Z 2562 of 310 Squadron when on a training flight. The aircraft stalled and spun into the ground at Coe’s Farm, near Girton, Cambridgeshire. The cause was attributed to disobedience of orders forbidding low flying the aircraft being overloaded in a steep turn without enough speed and not enough height. Kominek was, initially buried at Royston but was later re-interred in Brookwood Military Cemetery (Grave 28, Section E2 in the Czechoslovak Section).

PO 20.8.41 FO 20.8 42 FL 20.8.43

JOSEF KOPRIVA 104395

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

310 Squadron

Kopriva was in the Czech Air Force when the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939. He was demobilised on the 17th and he later went to Poland, where he reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate, in Krakow prior to making his way to France. On arrival in France, Czechoslovak airmen were required to join the French Foreign Legion for five years, with the agreement that should war be declared they would be transferred to French military units. Initially, Kopriva was in Paris pending transfer to the Legion training base in Algiers but war was declared and, instead, he was transferred to l’Armée de l’Air. On November 30 1939 he was transferred to CIC Chartres, for retraining on French equipment. Following this training he was assigned to GCII/2 on May 17 1940. GCII/2 was equipped with MS406c aircraft and was based at Belleville airbase at Plessis. During the Battle of France Kopriva shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on June 6 1940. When the Germans invaded France the rapidity of the Blitzkreig caused GCII/2 to move frequently as it retreated westwards. With the French capitulation imminent, the unit was at Montpelier airfield in south west France. The Czechoslovak airmen were released from service with l’Armee de l’Air and they made their way to Port Vendres. On June 24 Kopriva sailed, on the General Chanzy, to Oran, Algeria. With other Czech airmen he went to Casablanca where they boarded the Gib-el-Ders which took them to Gibraltar. They then transferred to the Neuralia which took them to Liverpool, where they arrived on July 12. Kopriva enlisted in the RAFVR (787582) at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge and from there he joined 310 Squadron at Duxford on July 13. Kopriva made his first operational flight on August 21 in Hurricane P 3887. His aircraft was damaged and caught fire during an attack on Bf 110s on September 3. He baled out and was recorded as unhurt except for slight shock. However he was later admitted to hospital due to suffering burns to his hands from the aircraft fire and did not rejoin 310 until October 1. His next operational sortie was on October 26 and he remained with the squadron until December 13. He was then posted to 19 Squadron, based at Fowlmere. He remained with 19 Squadron until June 16 1941 when he was posted to 54 OTU, at Church Fenton, for conversion to Beaufighters. On August 12 he was posted to 225 Squadron. On September 15 he was posted to the Czechoslovak Wing of 68 Squadron, where he remained until June 1 1942. He was then posted to the Personnel Department of the Czechoslovak Inspectorate General, in London, where he remained until his release from the RAF and return to Czechoslovakia, on August 16 1945. Kopriva stayed in the Czechoslovak Air Force, Following the communist takeover, in February 1948, Czechoslovaks who had fought with the Allies were regarded as being tainted by Capitalism. Before he could be arrested, Kopriva crossed the border to the American Zone in Germany and returned to England. Kopriva died on June 23 1976 in Nottingham.

MIROSLAV KOPECKY 107246

Sgt

310, 111 and 253 Sqdns

Kopecky was born on August 12 1911 at Hrejkovice Pisek. He joined the Czech Air Force on October 1 1929 for his military training. He attended the Military Aviation Academy at Prostejov for pilot training and from 1931 served as an NCO pilot with the 1st Air regiment at Prague-Kbely. After the Germans took over Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939, Kopecky was demobilised two days later. On June 4 1939, with three colleagues, he travelled to Ostrava and then to Frydek-Mistek where, on June 8, a guide led them across the border to Poland. He reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate, in Krakow, and later travelled to Gdynia. On June 20 he boarded the Sobieski and sailed to France. On arrival in France the Czechoslovak airmen were required to join the French Foreign Legion for five years, with the agreement that should war be declared they would be transferred to French military units. In July 1939 Kopecky sailed, from Marseille, on the General Tirman, to Oran and then transferred to the Legion training base at Sidi-belAbbes. When war was declared he transferred to l’Armee de l’Air and moved to the airbase at Dugny, near Paris. On November 30 1939, he was assigned to CIC Chartres for re-training to French equipment. He completed this training on May 18 1940 and was posted to Patrouille DAT GC I/55 at Etampes, south of Paris, which was equipped with MS-406c fighter aircraft. When the Germans invaded France, the rapidity of their Blitzkreig caused GCI/55 to move frequently as it retreated westwards. By mid June it had moved three times and was now at Clermont Ferrand, in southern France. When France fell the Czechoslovak airmen were released from service with l’Armee de l’Air and Kopecky made his way to England. On arrival in England Kopecky enlisted in the RAFVR. He was probably one of the fourteen pilots, who joined 310 Squadron at Duxford from the RAF Czechoslovak Depot, Cosford on August 6 1940. He was detached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge from RAF Duxford on August 18. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 111 Squadron at Croydon on September 9. Kopecky moved to 253 Squadron at Kenley on the September 25. The squadron moved to Leconfield on January 5 1941 and to Skaebrae, Orkney, in February 1941. Kopecky remained with 253 Sqn until March 8 1941, when he ceased operational flying and was posted away to instruct until February 21 1945. The units he instructed at were 52 OTU at Debden and Aston Down, 3 EFTS at Shellingford, 9 IFS at Upavon, 22 EFTS at Cambridge, RAF College SFTS at Cranwell, 22 EFTS at Cambridge, 5 AFU at Ternhill and 6 EFTS at Sywell. On February 21 1945 he was posted to the Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford where he remained until he was released from RAF service and returned to Czechoslovakia on August 18 1945. He remained in the Czechoslovak Air Force on his return, initially at the Air Force HQ in Prague, until November 16 1945 when he was assigned to 10 Air Regiment. On February 6 1946 he was posted as a pilot instructor, to the Military Aviation Academy. Following the communist takeover, in February 1948, Czechoslovaks who had fought with the Allies, in WW2, were regarded as being tainted by capitalism. Before he could be arrested, Kopecky escaped, with three other Czechoslovak ex-RAF pilots, across the border to the American Zone in Germany. He returned to England and

PO 20.8.41 FO 20.8 42 FL 20.8.43

KAREL KORBER 787699

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

32 Squadron

Korber was born in Pecs, Hungary, on October 6 1917. He was in the Czech Air Force when the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939 and he was demobilised on the 17th. He later escaped to France, via Poland. On reaching France he was transferred to Paris before being accepted into l’Armée de l’Air and assigned to CIC Chartres for retraining on French equipment. He completed training on December 2 1939 and was sent to GC II/3 which was based at Longvic airfield, near Dijon and equipped with MS-406c aircraft. In May 1940 the unit was re-equipped with Dewoitine D-520c fighter aircraft. On May 21 Korber shared in the destruction of a He 111 and on the following day shared in the destruction of a Hs 126. The rapidity of the Blitzkreig caused GCII/2 to move frequently and retreat westwards. By June 15 it was at Perpignan, in south west France. On June 20 the unit flew to Maison

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Mayfield after his parachute caught fire. His Hurricane, P 3538, crashed, inverted, and burned out at Pennybridge Farm, Mayfield Xaverian College. He is buried in Northwood Cemetery. Kosarz was awarded the KW (31.10.47).

Blanche airfield in Algeria and then on to Relizane, S W of Oran. The Czechoslovak airmen were released from service with l’Armee de l’Air and they made their way to Casablanca where they boarded a ship which took them to Gibraltar. They then changed ships and were brought to England. On arrival in England, Korber was accepted into the RAFVR and he went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge from the RAF Czechoslovak Depot, Cosford, on September 21. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 32 Squadron on October 9. On December 2 Korber made a heavy landing at RAF Woolsington. This caused the undercarriage of Hurricane, P 3036, to collapse, with substantial damage to the aircraft, but Korber was uninjured. He was posted to 222 Squadron, at North Weald, on October 27 1941. He completed his operational tour on December 16 and was posted to 3 EFTS, at Shellingford, as a pilot instructor. On August 19 1943 he was posted to 310 Squadron, at Castletown for his second operational tour. Korber was killed on May 3 whilst on escort duty, in Spitfire VB, EN 960, to a formation of Whirlwinds. They were attacked by FW 190s and, in the dogfight, off Guernsey, Korbers’s aircraft was badly damaged and his engine stopped. Just prior to baling out he waved to fellow 310 pilot, Sergeant Stanislav Peroulka. Korber left the aircraft successfully but he released himself too early from his parachute harness. The fall was from about 20 metres above the sea and Korber is presumed to have been killed on impact, Wing Commander Frantisek Dolezal flew his Spitfire down to sea level and saw that Korber was in his life jacket with his face down in the water. His dinghy had not been operated. Despite a search by an Air Sea Rescue launch his body was never recovered Warrant Officer Korber is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 134. He was the first Czech to be awarded the C de G (Fr).

BRONISLAW KAZIMIERZ KOSINSKI P 0298

PO

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

310, 1 and 17 Squadrons

When Poland fell, he escaped to France, was commissioned in l’Armée de l’Air in late 1939 and served as liaison officer with the Czechoslovakian government in exile in Paris. When France capitulated Czechoslovak airmen were released from l’Armee de l’Air service. With a large group of Czechoslovak airmen Kordula left Bordeaux, on June 19 1940, aboard the Karanan which arrived at Falmouth on June 21. He went to the Czechoslovak airmen’s depot at Cosford from where he was commissioned in the RAFVR and joined 310 Squadron at Duxford on July 12. He went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, for conversion to Hurricanes on August 17. Kordula joined No 1 Squadron at Debden on September 11, moving on to 17 Squadron at North Weald on the 25th. He destroyed a Do 17 on November 5 and shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 and damaged another, both on November 17. He was posted from 17 Squadron to the Czechoslovak Inspectorate General on April 22 1941, where he remained until the end of the war. No further details have been found of his wartime service. He returned to Czechoslovakia after the war and remained in the Czechoslovak Air Force as a staff officer. Following the communist takeover, in February 1948, Czechoslovaks who had fought with the Allies were regarded as being tainted by Capitalism. In 1948, Kordula escaped into the American Zone of Germany and returned to England. What he did in England is not certain but Kordula may have re-enlisted in the RAF on September 3 1949, as an AC 2. He died, in Middlesex on September 18 1979.

120764

Polish

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

310 Squadron

Koukal was born on May 6 1912 at Jenisovice, Turnov. He joined the Czechoslovak Air Force for his military service on October 1 1928 and attended the Military Aviation Academy, at Prostejov, as a Cadet. He graduated on June 31 1931 as a pilot observer. Later he attended the Military Aviation Academy, at Chleb, where he completed his fighter pilot training course. He remained in the Air Force until 1935 when he left and joined Benes-Mraz Aviation as a test pilot. This was a new aviation company in Chosen which built light aircraft. After the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939 the Czechoslovak Air Force and civil aviation companies were disbanded and all personnel dismissed. With two ex Czechoslovak Air Force colleagues he escaped to Poland on August 12. They travelled to Ostrava. On the night of August 14 they crossed the ‘new’ Polish border and travelled to Bohumin, which until a few months earlier had been part of Czechoslovakia. The Polish authorities took them to Krakow where they reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate. They were taken to a transit camp while further travel arrangements were made. Instead of going to France Koukal joined the Polish Air Force and was assigned to the airbase at Deblin, south west of Warsaw, where he was employed as a flying instructor. He was classed as a civilian since the Polish authorities did not want to provoke Nazi Germany. Germany invaded Poland on September 1 1939. On September 2 Do 17 bombers were reported to be approaching Deblin. The Commanding Officer of the Training School ordered that the aircraft be evacuated to Pulawy, in eastern Poland, and Koukal flew one of the aircraft. As they took off bombs were already falling on the airfield and Poland was quickly defeated. On September 4 the Czechoslovak Reconnaissance Squadron was formed and flew operationally against the advancing Germans. The Russians invaded Poland from the east on September 17 and the squadron was captured by the advancing Red Army and its personnel taken prisoner. Koukal, and other Czech airmen, managed to escape but after travelling a short distance were re-captured. The captured Czech airmen were being transported east, to Siberia. On October 2 Koukal escaped again but was caught. On October 9, with another Czech airman, he escaped again and managed to travel 350 km and cross the border into Romania. The border was a river which they swam across whilst a Russian border patrol was

WILHELM KOSARZ Pilot

32 Squadron

JOSEF KOUKAL

PO 12.7.40 FO 1941 FL 1.3.41

Sgt

Polish

In May 1940 he commanded a flight of Curtis Hawk 75As, flying from Bourges and providing cover for an aircraft factory there. He shared in destroying and damaging several enemy aircraft. On June 5 Kosinski shared in the destruction of three He 111s and damaged two others. Kosinski arrived at Liverpool on July 7 1940, in the SS Apapa. He was at Beeston Castle, Cheshire until the 13th, then at 7 S of TT until the 19th, when he moved to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a further posting. Kosinski was posted to 307 (Polish) Squadron on September 10, then forming at Kirtonin-Lindsey, as ‘B’ Flight Joint Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. He was posted away to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum on October 9, for testing and grading. Kosinski arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 17th, converted to Hurricanes and joined 32 Squadron at Acklington on the 27th. He moved to 229 Squadron at Northolt on December 4 and then to 308 Squadron at Baginton on December 22. He was awarded the KW (1.2.41). On July 24 1941 Kosinski was posted to 72 Squadron at Gravesend. He destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another on August 29 1941 and did the same again on October 1. He was awarded a Bar to the KW (30.10.41). He went to 302 Squadron at Harrowbeer on November 29, as a Flight Commander. Kosinski was killed on January 26 1942. His Spitfire, AA 747, was one of four flying in the region of Brest. He disappeared after an attack by enemy fighters and was not seen again, probably lost in the sea. Kosinski is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (5.5.42).

Kordula was born on August 3 1905 at Beroun and served in the Czechoslovak Air Force, initially as a pilot and rising to Commander of the 4th Air Regiment. After the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939 he was demobilised on the 17th and went to Poland in June.

780828

Pilot

Born on August 26 1907, Kosinski was in the PAF before the war. He escaped to France after the fall of Poland and joined l’Armée de l’Air.

FRANTISEK KORDULA 82156

FL

302 Squadron

Kosarz was born on June 20 1908. He arrived in England in early 1940 and enlisted in the RAFVR in February at RAF Eastchurch. The Poles moved up to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool on June 1 1940, to await postings. Kosarz joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield on August 20. He was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 2. After converting to Hurricanes, he rejoined 302 on the 26th. He struck a barrage balloon cable at Langley in bad visibility on October 15 and lost 14 inches from his starboard wing. He landed safely at Heston. Kosarz was shot down in flames by a Bf 109 over Maidstone on November 8. He baled out but fell dead at

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with it until October 20, when he was posted to HQ 131 Wing. He was awarded a second Bar to the KW (20.12.43). On April 28 1944 he joined 317 Squadron at Chailey. He went to the PAF Depot, Blackpool on May 1 1945. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (1.6.45) and on November 9 was attached to HQ 131 Wing and posted to the Enemy Aircraft Salvage and Service Unit at Hamburg. Kowalski was awarded the DFC (10.4.46) and released from the PAF in December 1948, as a Flight Lieutenant. After the war, Kowalski settled in Britain. He died in 2000 and he is buried in St Helen’s churchyard, Burton Joyce, Nottinghamshire.

shooting at them. They were arrested by a Romanian border patrol and, for illegal entry into Romania, were detained in prison for a month and then transferred to an internment camp in Buzau. Koukal escaped from here and reached Bucharest where the Polish Consulate provided him with identity documents and a visa. He then travelled, by train to the Black Sea, where he boarded a ship to Istanbul. He travelled on to Beirut. Here the Czechoslovak Consul provided him with identity documents and passage to Marseilles, where he arrived on January 12 1940. On arrival in France Koukal was assigned to the Czechoslovak depot at Agde. He was then transferred to l’Armee de l’Air at Merignac, Bordeaux, for training on French equipment. When France capitulated he was evacuated, from Bordeaux, aboard the Polish ship, Robur III, to Falmouth, where he arrived on June 21. Shortly after his arrival in England he was at No1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge. He was accepted into the RAFVR and, on July 13, was posted to 310 Squadron. On September 7 he was flying Hurricane, V 7437, over the Isle of Sheppey, when, following his shooting down of a Bf 110, he was shot down himself by 20mm shells from a Bf 109 His fuel tank was hit and his aircraft caught fire and started to dive. The cockpit was engulfed in flames and Koukal, who had also suffered shrapnel damage to his right eye, was unable to open the cockpit. The fuel tank exploded, throwing Koukal from his cockpit, his clothing soaked in fuel. Already badly burned and with his clothing on fire, Koukal realised that his only hope of survival was to try to extinguish the flames in the airstream, before deploying his parachute. He was only 2000 ft above ground when he was able to deploy the parachute. Koukal recalled “I could hear only noise. It was like being in a fire-place.” He landed on farmland on the Isle of Sheppey and his clothes re-ignited. A farmer had seen him fall rushed to him and ripped off the burning clothes. Koukal was alive but had suffered burns to 72 per cent of his body. His Hurricane crashed near Capel Fleet, Harty Marshes, Sheppey. When the site of his crash was excavated, in 1972, Koukal went to England and met the widow of the man who tore off his burning clothes. Koukal was treated for his burns at the Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead and became an early Guinea Pig. Over the next two years he underwent 28 operations. Despite his injuries, Koukal wanted to return to flying and, on January 19 1943, he was posted to 5 Advanced Flying Unit for a pilot refresher course. On February 23 1943 he passed the course and was sent to 53 OTU. On May 4 1943 he was posted to 312 Squadron, at Church Stanton, where he resumed operational flying in Spitfire Mk Vs. On August 1 he was posted to No1 Delivery Flight for non-operational flying and he remained with the Flight until November 8. He then went to the Personnel Department of the Czechoslovak Inspectorate where he remained until he returned to Czechoslovakia, on August 31 1945. Following his return to Czechoslovakia, he was discharged from the Czech Air Force as an invalid and was given a disability pension. He returned to Benes-Mraz, at Chocen, where he was employed as a test pilot. Following the communist takeover, in February 1948, Koukal was persecuted by the StB (State Security Police) who were trying to provoke him so that he could be arrested. When these attempts failed he, his wife and their two young sons, were restricted to living in one room, without running water or a toilet for the next fourteen years. Koukal died in Luze on February 23 1980.

PO 1.6.42 FO 1.6.43 FL 1.6.44

JULIAN KOWALSKI P 1400

FO

Pilot

Polish

302 Squadron

Born at Nagornik on July 10 1910, Kowalski joined the Polish Air Force in 1932. After Poland fell he made his way to France and joined l’Armée de l’Air and served with the Polish fighter unit Groupe de Chasse 1/145. On June 9 1940 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17. After France fell Kowalski went to England, arriving on June 21 1940. He went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool and was posted from there to 302 Squadron at Leconfield on July 26. Kowalski went with a 302 Squadron detachment to Duxford on September 13, to operate with the Bader Big Wing. On the 15th he probably destroyed a Do 17 and damaged another and on the 19th he destroyed a Ju 88. The detachment returned to Leconfield on the 25th. He was awarded the KW (23.12.40) and a Bar (1.2.41). On March 4 he damaged a Ju 88. Kowalski was given command of the squadron in November 1941. He was awarded a second Bar to the KW (19.2.42). On April 26 he damaged a FW 190 and on July 27 he destroyed another. Kowalski was awarded a third Bar to the KW (20.8.42) and the VM (5th Class) (20.8.42). On August 25 1942 Kowalski was posted to HQ 10 Group, as Polish Liaison Officer. He moved to HQ 81 Group on November 11 to do the same duties. He was awarded the DFC (15.11.42). On June 20 1943 Kowalski went to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, to instruct. He moved to 18 Sector HQ on February 15 1944 and on April 12 he was given command of No 1 Polish Wing at Northolt. He probably destroyed a FW 190 on June 20. Kowalski was posted to HQ 11 Group on October 10 1944, moved to RAF Coltishall on February 25 1945 and to Andrews Field, Essex on August 8 1945, as OC Polish Personnel. He was released from the PAF in January 1947, as a Wing Commander. Kowalski settled in Britain and died on December 7 1986. He is buried in The Lawns Cemetery, Ipswich. FO 1.3.41 FL 1.3.4 SL 1.9.42 WC 20.6.43

PO 23.3.43

FRANCISZEK KOZLOWSKI JAN KOWALSKI P 1909

Sgt

Pilot

76729 Polish

PO

Pilot

Polish

501 Squadron

303 Squadron Born on April 14 1917, Kozlowski shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on September 2 1939, serving with 122 Eskadra of the Polish Air Force. He arrived in Britain in late 1939 and was commissioned in the RAFVR on January 27 1940.

Born at Mircze on November 19 1916, Kowalski started training at the PAF NCOs Training School at Bydgoszcz in 1932. He qualified as an aircraft mechanic in 1935.

On June 1 Kozlowski was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. He was at No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum from July 16 to 20 1940, for testing and grading, after which he arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 22. After converting to Hurricanes, Kozlowski joined 501 Squadron at Gravesend on August 7. He was shot down in combat over Canterbury on August 18. He baled out and was admitted to hospital, seriously

He was then posted to the Air Force Officers’ Training Centre at Sadkow for pilot training, which he completed at the Advanced Pilots’ Training Centre at Grudzadz. Kowalski then joined 112 Fighter Eskadra of the 1st Air Force Regiment, Warsaw. In 1937 he returned to the NCOs School, as an instructor. He was evacuated with the student pilots to Romania in September 1939 and he reached Marseilles on October 31. Kowalski joined l’Armée de l’Air and in Spring 1940 he was posted to Rennes, as an instructor. When France collapsed, he made his way to England, arriving on June 22 1940. He went to the Polish Wing, 3 S of TT, Blackpool and from there Kowalski joined 303 Squadron at Northolt on August 21. He destroyed a Bf 109 on September 26 and damaged a He 111 on the 27th. He was posted to 315 Squadron at Acklington at its formation on January 21 1941. Kowalski was awarded the KW (1.2.41) and a Bar (19.2.42). Commissioned in June 1942, he was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on December 5, as an instructor. On February 13 1943 Kowalski joined the Polish Fighting Team at West Kirby. The pilots flew to the Middle East in a C 47, arriving on March 13. They were attached to 145 Squadron and operated in the Western Desert from March 17 to May 12 1943 and downed 30 enemy aircraft. Back in the UK, Kowalski joined 316 Squadron at Northolt on July 21 1943 and was

injured. His Hurricane, P 3815, crashed at Rayham’s Farm, near Whitstable. He rejoined 501 from hospital on October 22 1940 but did not fly again until November 26, when he flew a sortie, between 09.20 and 10.50 hrs. He remained with 501 but did not fly again with the squadron for the remainder of 1940. On February 25 1941 Kozlowski joined 316 Squadron, recently formed at Pembrey. He was awarded the KW (19.2.42) and a Bar (20.8.42). He was appointed a Flight Commander on October 4 1942. He was killed on March 13 1943, shot down by German fighters at Fesques, near Neufchatel, in Spitfire EN 171. Kozlowski is buried in Hautot-sur-Mer Cemetery, France. He was awarded a second Bar to the KW (29.5.43) and a third Bar (31.10.47). PO 27.1.40 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.3.42

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MARCUS KRAMER 77345

PO

Air Gunner

British

Shoeburyness. On May 25 Kratkoruky destroyed a Bf 109. He was commissioned in November and in early 1942 was posted to 61 OTU, Rednal, as an instructor. Later in the year he joined 313 Squadron at Church Stanton. On January 15 1943, Kratkoruky was flying Spitfire AR 546 with the Czech Wing, escorting Bostons to bomb the docks at Cherbourg. Ten miles N of Cap de la Hague, when 313 made a sharp turn into the sun, Kratkoruky collided with Flight Sergeant Blaha, neither pilot baled out and it is believed that Blaha was killed instantly. Kratkoruky attempted to glide back to the English coast. He ditched some fifteen miles S of Portland but his aircraft sank nose down and he was lost. Kratkoruky is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 125.

600 Squadron

A pharmacist of Thorpe Bay, Essex, Kramer was born in Bermondsey, London in 1911. He joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (746721). Called up on September 1, he completed his gunnery training, was commissioned in early February 1940 and joined 600 Squadron at Manston in March. On May 10 1940 Kramer flew as gunner with Pilot Officer R C Haine, in one of six Blenheims detailed for an afternoon attack on Waalhaven aerodrome, Rotterdam, which had been captured by German paratroopers that morning. After the attack the Blenheims were jumped by Bf 110s and five were shot down. Kramer, Haine and the CO’s navigator, Sergeant Davis, evaded capture and were evacuated by the Royal Navy. Kramer was awarded the DFC (9.7.40). He was posted to 256 Squadron at Catterick on January 1 1941. He left for HQ 10 Group on February 3, as Group Gunnery Officer. He was killed on May 21 1941, in Tiger Moth N 6853 of 10 Group Communications Flight. His aircraft was seen to ditch in the River Severn, at Beachley near Chepstow after running out of fuel in bad weather. He was a Flight Lieutenant with 29 Squadron, aged 29. Squadron Leader W J Methven was also killed in the incident. Kramer’s name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 29.

PO 1.11.41 FO 1.11.42

MIROSLAV KREDBA 81895

PO

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

Kredba was born on January 29 1914 at Libichov. He was in the Czech Air Force before the Nazi takeover on March 15 1939. He was demobilised on the 17th, and travelled through Slovakia and Romania to Yugoslavia. He reached Marseille and was awaiting acceptance by l’Armée de l’Air when the Germans invaded.

PO 4.2.40 FO 4.2.41

ZDZISLAW KRASNODEBSKI P 1505

FL

Pilot

Polish

On June 17, with other Czech airmen, he flew in a BOAC aircraft from Bordeaux to Hendon. He was commissioned in the RAFVR and joined 310 Squadron at Duxford on July 12 1940. Kredba flew his first operational sortie on August 30. He was shot down next day, in Hurricane P 8814, over the Thames Estuary by Bf 109s, which were escorting Do 17s. Kredba baled out, unhurt, and returned to Duxford via RAF Hornchurch. On his next sortie, on September 5, Kredba was wounded and made a forced-landing at Epping. He returned to 310 Squadron on October 10 from Epping Hospital and was granted fourteen days sick leave. His next sortie was flown on November 7. He was injured in an accident at West Hartlepool on December 15 1941. In early 1942 he was serving as a Flight Lieutenant with 310 Squadron at Perranporth. He was killed in an accident on February 14, when he hit a ground obstruction taking off on a night training flight. Kredba is buried in St Illogan’s churchyard, Illogan, Redruth, Cornwall.

303 Squadron

Born in Wola Osowinska, near Lukow on August 10 1904, Krasnodebski joined the PAF in 1928. He shared in the destruction of an enemy aircraft in September 1939, when he was in command of III/1 Dyon. No details have been found about Krasnodebski’s arrival in England. He was commissioned in the PAF in May 1940. He was posted from the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool to be joint CO of 303 Squadron at Northolt at its formation on August 2 1940, as an Acting Squadron Leader. He was shot down in combat with Bf 109s on September 6 and baled out, badly burned. His Hurricane, P 3974, crashed on Langley Park Golf Course, near Beckenham, Kent. Krasnodebski was admitted to Farnborough Hospital and later went to the Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, where he underwent plastic surgery by Archie McIndoe and became a Guinea Pig. He relinquished his acting rank on September 27. Awarded the VM (5th Class) (23.12.40), Krasnodebski returned to duty on June 2 1941 and was posted to Canada. Back in the UK, he commanded RAF Heston from April 1 to October 14 1943, when he was posted to command 131 Airfield, Northolt, which he did until February 17 1944. Krasnodebski went to Staff College for a course on January 2 1945, after which he commanded RAF Newton from October 15 until he was released from the PAF in December 1946 as a Group Captain. He was awarded the KW (31.10.47). Krasnodebski settled in Canada and died in Toronto in 1980.

PO 12.7.40 FO 27.12.40 FL 27.12.41

WALENTY KREPSKI 76755

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

Pilot

Polish

54 Squadron

The Poles moved up to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool on June 1 1940. Krepski was posted from there to No 1 School of Army Co operation, Old Sarum for the 3rd Polish Pilots’ Course for testing and grading, from July 22 to 29, after which he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden. He converted to Spitfires and joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 23 1940 and made his first flight with the squadron that day. Krepski failed to return from an operational patrol over the Flamborough area on September 7. It is believed that he lost his bearings due to R/T failure and crashed into the sea, in Spitfire R 6901. Krepski was 23. He is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt.

BEDRICH KRATKORUKY Sgt

PO

Krepski, a former member of the Polish Air Force, arrived in England in January 1940 and he was commissioned in the RAFVR on the 27th at RAF Eastchurch.

PO 3.5.40 WC 1.9.44

110669

310 Squadron

1 Squadron

Kratkoruky was born on October 8 1913 at Horatev. He was in the Czech Air Force and in August 1939 he escaped to Poland and later made his way to France, where he joined the French Foreign Legion. After the outbreak of war Kratkoruky transferred to l’Armée de l’Air.

PO 27.1.40 He trained at the Fighter Training School at Chartres and on May 18 1940 he was posted to Groupe de Chasse III/3. The next day he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and shared in the destruction of another and on the 20th Kratkoruky shared in the destruction of a He 111 and was then himself shot down, making a successful forced-landing. He shared in the destruction of another He 111 on June 13. After the fall of France, Kratkoruky made his way to England via Algeria, Casablanca and Gibraltar. He arrived at Cardiff on August 5. He was enlisted in the RAFVR (787703) at the RAF Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford and he was posted from there to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 14. Kratkoruky joined No 1 Squadron at Wittering on October 4 1940. On May 11 1941 Kratkoruky intercepted a He 111 over Canvey Island in the early hours of the morning. After a chase, he attacked it near Southend. When last seen, the enemy aircraft was at 2,000 feet, losing height, with both engines smoking. Coastguards at Southend later reported that it crashed into the sea off

WACLAV SZCZEPAN KROL P 1299

FO

Pilot

Polish

302 Squadron

Born in Sandomierz on December 25 1915, Krol qualified as a glider pilot in 1935 and joined the PAF at Deblin. He was commissioned in 1937 and posted to 123 Eskadra at Krakow. When the Germans invaded Poland on September 1 1939, he was serving with 121 Eskadra, as Deputy Commander. On September 1 Krol destroyed a Hs 126, on the 2nd he shared a possible Do 17, on the 5th he shared in destroying a Do 17 and on the 6th he destroyed a Bf 110. After Poland fell, Krol made his way to France and from April 1940 he was in Groupe de Chasse II/7. Krol claimed a He 111 damaged on April 19, a Bf 110 destroyed on May 10 and a He 111 on the 20th. Polish records credit him with a He 111 destroyed on May 24, a

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March 31 1937, to the 4th Air Regiment, in Pardubice. In 1938 he was selected for fighter pilot training and was posted to the Military Aviation Academy, at Hradec Kralove for his initial training. He graduated from the course in April 1938 and was assigned to the 43rd Fighter Squadron of 1 Air Regiment at the same airbase. The unit was equipped with Avia B-534 biplane fighters. When the Germans took over on March 15 1939, the Air Force was disbanded and Kucera was demobilised on the 17th. He tried to escape to Poland on April 23 but was detained at the Polish border and returned. His next escape attempt, on May 13,was successful when, with the help of the Airman’s Association of Czechoslovakia, he reached Poland and reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate in Krakow. With other Czechoslovak airmen, he sailed on the Batory from Gdynia to Cherbourg, where he arrived on May 26. On arrival in France Czechoslovak airmen were required to join the French Foreign Legion for five years, with the agreement that should war be declared they would be transferred to French military units. He joined the Legion, on June 14, and was transferred to the training base at Sidi-bel-Abbes, Algeria. There he was assigned to the 1st Regiment. After the outbreak of war Kucera was seconded to l’Armée de l’Air and was transferred to the airbase at Tunis. On September 9 he went to Blida airbase and then to La Senia airbase, Oran on October 19, for retraining to French equipment. On December 13 he was posted to Groupe de Chasse I/6, at Oran, flying Morane 406s. Two days later GCI/6 moved to mainland France and was based at Merignac airfield, at Marseilles, until March 8 1940 when it moved east to Chissey, near Dijon. Kucera destroyed a Do 19z on May 18 1940, a Do17 on May 20 and shared in the destruction of a Hs 123 on June 5. When the Germans invaded France, the rapidity of the Blitzkreig caused GCI/6 to move frequently westwards. By June 19 the unit was at Bergerac, in south-west France. When France capitulated, Czechoslovak airmen were released from l’Armee de l’Air service. With a large group of Czechoslovak airmen Kucera travelled to Port Vendres where, on June 24, they boarded the General Chanzy which took them to Oran, Algeria. They then went to Casablanca, Morocco and boarded the Gib-el-Ders which took them to Gibraltar. Here they transferred to the Neuralia which took them to Liverpool, where they arrived on July 12. Kucera went to the Czechoslovak Army Depot, Leamington, then to 2 S of TT on August 1 and finally to the RAF Czechoslovak Depot, Cosford on the 3rd, where he was enlisted in the RAFVR (787568). Kucera joined 310 Squadron at Duxford on the 6th. He was detached to 6 OTU on August 17, converted to Hurricanes and on September 10 he joined 238 Squadron at Middle Wallop. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and two others damaged on the 26th and a He 111 destroyed on the 30th. Kucera crashed on November 30 when approaching Weymouth to land after a patrol, His Hurricane V 7612, suffered engine failure and came down near Buckland Ripers, catching fire. Kucera suffered burns. He was taken to Weymouth Hospital for treatment and later went to the NCO Centre, at Blackpool, for recuperation. He was released from there on March 17 1941 and, on May 9, was posted to 501 Squadron. He only stayed with 501 until May 16, when he was posted to 313 Squadron. On October 27 he was posted to the Czechoslovak Inspectorate General in London. He stayed there until May 1 1942 when he rejoined 313 Squadron. On a bomber-escort to Lille on July 6 1942, Kucera was chased back across the Channel by six FW 190s. In the resultant fight his Spitfire BM 509 ran short of fuel and he made a forced landing in a field full of anti-invasion obstacles at Bonnington, near Ashford, Kent. In the landing Kucera suffered head injuries and he was taken to RAF Hawkinge. On July 7 he damaged a Ju 99 . With his second tour completed, on June 15 1943, Kucera was sent to the Czechoslovak Inspectorate General, for a rest period. On completion of this Kucera volunteered to fly photo-reconnaissance sorties and was posted, on November 29, to SFTS Cranwell for training on twin-engined aircraft, which he completed on January 9 1944. On February 18 he was posted to 9 OTU, at Crosby on Eden, for further multi-engined training which he completed on March 20 , after which he was with 32 Maintenance Unit, at St Athan, until June 5. He then went to 8 OTU, at Dyce, for further training until August 7. He was then posted to 544 Squadron, a photo-reconnaissance squadron, based at Benson. He remained with the squadron until the end of the war when he was released from the RAF and returned to Czechoslovakia. On his return he remained in the Czechoslovak Air Force and, on October 22 1945, he was assigned to Prague-Ruzyne airbase, with repatriation duties. Further postings followed and, by early 1948, Kucera was a Commander at the 3rd Air Division. Following the communist takeover, in February 1948, Czechoslovaks who had fought with the Allies were regarded as being tainted. On February 2 1949 Kucera was placed on ‘waiting leave’ and on November 1 was dismissed from the Czechoslovak Air Force. Nine days later he was arrested and held in custody for three months awaiting trial. The case was dropped but he was never permitted to do anything other than menial work for the rest of the time the Communists held power. Kucera died on January 24 1980 at Pizen.

Do 17 probably destroyed on June 1 and a Do 17 destroyed on June 3. He was awarded the C de G (Fr). Krol arrived in Britain, via North Africa, on July 16 1940 and went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool. He joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield on August 20. He was detached to 5 OTU on September 2, converted to Hurricanes and rejoined 302 on the 26th. Krol claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on October 15. Awarded the KW and Bar (1.2.41), Krol shared a Ju 88 on March 13 1941 and claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on May 8. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on May 29. Krol was awarded a second Bar to the KW (10.9.41). He was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on November 22 1941, to be an instructor. A return to operations came on May 24 1942, when Krol joined 316 Squadron at Heston, as a Flight Commander. He destroyed a FW 190 on June 5 and was awarded the VM (5th Class) (20.8.42). On December 1 1942 Krol was posted to 315 Squadron’s Operations Room. He went to West Kirby on February 13 1943, to prepare for overseas and on March 13 arrived in the Middle East in a C 47 with other Polish pilots, to form the Polish Fighting Team, otherwise known as ‘Skalski’s Circus’. They were attached to 145 Squadron and operated in the Western Desert from March 17 to May 12 and downed 30 enemy aircraft. Krol claimed Bf 109s on April 4 and 21 and a Mc 202 on April 20. Back in the UK, Krol joined 303 Squadron at Ballyhalbert on July 25 1943. He took command of 302 Squadron at Northolt on October 18, was awarded a third Bar to the KW (20.12.43), the DFC (15.2.44) and led the squadron until June 5 1944, when he was posted to HQ 11 Group. Krol went to 61 OTU on October 1, as CFI, moved to HQ 84 Group on January 30 1945 and then to RAF Coltishall to lead the Wing on April 18. He was posted to lead 133 Wing on July 24 and 131 Wing on August 15. After the war Krol was released from the PAF, as a Wing Commander, and returned to Poland. He died there in 1991. FO 1.3.41 FL 1.9.42

JAROSLAV KUCERA 787665

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

245 Squadron

Kucera was born on June 23 1915 at Plzen. He was in the Czech Air Force when the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939. He was demobilised on the 17th and he later escaped to Poland where he reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate, in Krakow. With other Czechoslovak military escapers he was taken to Gdynia, where they boarded a ship which took them to France. On arrival in France Czechoslovak airmen were required to join the French Foreign Legion for five years, with the agreement that should war be declared they would be transferred to French military units. Initially, Kucera was in Paris pending transfer to the Legion training base in Algiers but war was declared and, instead, he was transferred to l’Armée de l’Air. On September 29 1939 he was moved to CIC Chartres, for retraining on to French equipment. Following this training, completed on May 19 1940, he was assigned to GCI/55, equipped with MS-406c aircraft and was based at Etampes airbase, S of Paris. When the Germans invaded France, the rapidity of their Blitzkreig caused GCI/55 to move frequently as it retreated westwards. By mid June it had moved three times and was at Clermont Ferrand, in southern France. When France fell the Czechoslovak airmen were released from service with l’Armee de l’Air and Kucera made his way to England. On arrival in England, Kucera went to the RAF Czechoslovak Depot, Cosford and was accepted into the RAFVR and then posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge to convert to Hurricanes. On October 5 he joined 245 Squadron at Aldergrove and was with it until December 1, when he joined 605 Squadron at Croydon, where he remained until September 13 1941, when he was posted to 312 Squadron. On December 19 1942 Kucera collided with another Czech pilot, Rotech Solid, whilst cine-gun training together. They had both taken off from Ayr. Kucera was flying Spitfire BL 293 and Smolik, AD 539. Smolik managed to bale out and landed safely, his aircraft crashing at Brown Hill Farm, near Newmilns. Kucera was killed when his Spitfire crashed at Burnfoot Farm, near Darvel. Kucera is buried in Holmstone Cemetery, Ayr.

JIRI KUCERA 103533

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

238 Squadron

Kucera was born on June 27 1914 at Roudnice nad Labem, Litomerice. Prior to doing his military service, he had already qualified as a sports pilot. He enrolled in the Military Aviation Academy, at Prostejov.for his military service, and was assigned, on

PO 13.8.41 FO 28.10.42 FL 28.10.42

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OTMAR KUCERA 112548

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

He then went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, converted to Hurricanes, and he joined 17 Squadron at Tangmere on September 1 1940. Kumiega shared in destroying a Bf 109 on October 29. He was posted to 317 Squadron at Acklington at its formation on February 22 1941. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on December 18, was awarded the KW (5.5.42), was posted to RAF Northolt on July 6 1942 and received a Bar to the KW (20.8.42). On September 16 1942 Kumiega went as Liaison Officer to RAF Matlask. He was posted to HQ ADGB on June 30 1944, for staff duties, as an Acting Squadron Leader. On August 21 1946 he went to RAF Coltishall, as a supernumerary for flying duties. Kumiega stayed on in the RAF, in the Secretarial Branch. He retired on June 1 1966, as a Flight Lieutenant, and settled in Britain. Kumiega died in 1995 and he is buried in Queensgate Cemetery, Beverley, Yorkshire.

111 Squadron

Kucera was born in Brno on July 13 1914. Kucera served in the Czech Air Force in 1933 and went to the Military Aviation Academy, at Prostejov, where he received his elementary flying training. He graduated on August 1 1935 and was assigned to the 8th Observation Squadron of 2 Air Regiment. It was based at Olomouc and equipped with Letov S-328 dual-seat bi-planes. A highlight of his time with this unit was that he was one of three Czechoslovak Air Force pilots who were selected to fly, in formation, in Avia B-534 biplanes, to accompany Charles Lindbergh, when he visited Czechoslovakia. In March 1939 he was with 34 Fighter Squadron of 2 Air Regiment, at Olomouc, equipped with B-534 bi-plane fighters. When the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939, the Air Force was disbanded and he was dismissed. He tried to escape to Poland in August but failed. His next escape attempt, on December 29, was successful when, with two other ex-Czechoslovak airmen, he escaped into Slovakia and crossed to Hungary. They went to the French Consulate, in Budapest. The Consulate provided them with assistance which enabled them to travel to Yugoslavian and then to Greece where they boarded a ship bound for Turkey and Beirut. Here they boarded the French ship, Providence, which took them to Marseilles, where they arrived on March 3 1940. On arrival, Kucera was transferred to the Czechoslovak military camp at Agde. He was then assigned to l’Armée de l’Air airbase at Merignac, near Bordeaux, for retraining to French equipment. When France capitulated the Czechoslovak airmen were released from service with l’Armee de l’Air. On June 18 1940, Kucera and other Czechoslovak airmen were evacuated from Bordeaux, by ship and were taken to Falmouth where they arrived on June 22. Initially, Kucera was at Innsworth but was transferred to the Czechoslovak Airmen’s Depot at Cosford. On August 2 he was accepted into the RAFVR (787658). Kucera arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge from the RAF Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford on September 21. After converting to Hurricanes he joined 111 Squadron at Drem on October 6 1940. Kucera claimed a share in the destruction of He 111 on November 13. On April 15 1941 he was posted to 312 Squadron. He two victories in 1941 and a Ju 88 on February 16 1942. He was posted to 313 Squadron, on April 14. On May 8 he completed his operational tour and was posted to the Czechoslovak Inspectorate General in London. He remained there until January 1 1943 when he returned to 313 Squadron to start his second operational tour. On May 17 Kucera was sent on a course at the Flight Leader School, at Millfield. He returned to the Squadron on June 8 and was appointed Flight Commander of ‘B’ Flight on September 1. On September 17 he shot down a FW 190. At the end of his operational tour, he was awarded the DFC. In May 1944 he returned to the Czechoslovak Inspectorate General where he was appointed as Liaison Officer for 19 Group of the 2nd Tactical Air Force. On November 15 1944 Kucera took command of 313 Squadron and led it until August 1945. Kucera was released from the RAF and he returned to Czechoslovakia on August 13. He remained in the Czechoslovak Air Force and was appointed Personnel Officer for the 3rd Airborne Division at Brno. On November 15 he was appointed Commander of the Division’s Training Squadron. On September 8 1948 Kucera took command of the 7th Aviation Regiment, at Brno, equipped with Avia S-199 (Czechoslovak built Bf109g) fighters. Following the communist takeover, in February 1948, Czechoslovaks who had fought with the Allies were regarded as being tainted. On January 11 1949 Kucera was dismissed from the Czechoslovak Air Force and demoted in rank from Major to Private. He was arrested on January 14 by the StB (State Security Police) and interrogated at the Domecek, Prague. In February he was moved to the Spilberk prison in Brno. On June 3 1949 he was tried by the Brno Stae Court but the case was dismissed for lack of evidence. Despite this he was stripped of all his Czechoslovak medals and he, and his family, were evicted from their apartment. During the Communist years Kucera was only permitted to do menial work. Kucera died on June 6 1995 in Brno.

PO 24.1.40 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.9.42 FL 1.3.47

ZBIGNIEW KUSTRZYNSKI 76718

Pilot

Polish

Polish

111 and 607 Squadrons

He moved to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool on June 1 1940, to await a posting. Kustrzynski was at 15 EFTS, Carlisle from July 18 to August 1, for testing and grading, after which he went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 111 Squadron at Debden on September 1 and moved to 607 Squadron at Tangmere on the 14th. He joined 303 Squadron at Leconfield on November 12. The squadron combined with 316 and 317 on April 4 1942, to provide an escort for twelve Bostons, detailed to attack St Omer railway station. Near Boulogne they were intercepted by Bf 109s and FW 190s and a combat ensued. Kustrzynski sent out a distress signal, in Hurricane AB 824. He made a forced-landing in France and was captured. He destroyed two FW 190s in the action. He was awarded the KW (20.8.42). On February 1 1945 Kustrzynski escaped from a PoW farm working party, in company with R R S Tuck. They were found by the Russians two weeks later and spent some time fighting alongside them. They made their way into Poland, then into Russia and reached the British Embassy in Moscow. Kustrzynski and Tuck boarded a ship at Odessa for Southampton. Kustrzynski was posted to HQ 11 Group on November 20 1945, as an Operations Room Controller. He was released from the PAF in January 1947 and went to live in Canada. FO 1.3.41 FL 1.9.42

KAREL MIROSLAV KUTTELWASCHER 111519

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

1 Squadron

Born in Svaty Kriz on September 23 1916, Kuttelwascher left secondary school, did three years at a commercial school and at 17 went to work as a clerk at a flour-milling company near Prague. He joined the Czech Air Force on October 1 1934 and after finishing his training in March 1937, he was posted to No 1 Flying Regiment. After the German takeover, Kuttelwascher escaped from Czechoslovakia on the night of June 13/14 1939 in a coal train to Poland. He took a train from Cracow to Gdynia on July 25 and boarded a Swedish ship for France, arriving at Calais on August 1. The only unit open to foreigners was the Foreign Legion and Kuttelwascher sailed from Marseilles to Oran and went by train to Sidi-bel-Abbes, the Legion HQ. In October he was back in France, seconded from the Foreign Legion, and joined l’Armée de l’Air. After training at the Fighter Training School at Chartres, he joined Groupe de Chasse III/3 on May 18 1940. Kuttelwascher claimed to have destroyed six German aircraft during the May/June fighting. When France collapsed, he flew an aircraft to Algiers and then, with nine other Czechs,

TADEUSZ LEON KUMIEGA PO

Pilot

Born in Moscow on September 18 1911, Kustrzynski joined the PAF in 1934. After Poland fell in September 1939, he made his way to England and was commissioned in the RAFVR in January 1940 at RAF Eastchurch.

PO 11.41 FO 22.9.42 FL 1.10.43 SL 11.44

76700

FO

17 Squadron

Kumiega was born on October 16 1916. He reached England in late 1939 and was commissioned in the RAFVR in January 1940 at RAF Eastchurch. He went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool on June 1 1940, to await a posting. From there Kumiega went to 15 EFTS, Carlisle from July 18 to August 1, for testing and grading.

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Kuttelwascher was taken ill on August 13 1959, whilst on holiday in Cornwall and died of a heart attack just before midnight on the 17th. He is buried in Hillingdon Cemetery, Middlesex.

he took a train to Casablanca on July 5 1940. They went to Gibraltar and sailed from there to Cardiff, arriving on August 5. He enlisted in the RAFVR (787696) at the RAF Czechoslovak Depot, Cosford in late August. He was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 14, as a Sergeant-Pilot. After converting to Hurricanes he joined No 1 Squadron at Wittering on October 3 1940. He claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed on February 2 1941 and destroyed three more on April 8, May 21 and June 27. He was commissioned in October and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant and appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on February 14 1942. No 1 Squadron began night intruder operations on April 1 1942 and on that night Kuttelwascher destroyed a Ju 88, as it took off from Melun, and damaged another. He claimed Do 217s destroyed on April 16/17 and 26/27th, another Do 217 and a He 111 on the 30/31, three He 111s on May 4/5, a Do 217 on June 2/3, a He 111 and a Do 217 on the 3/4, a Ju 88 and another damaged on the 21/22, a Do 217 on the 28/29th and two Do 217s and another damaged on July 1/2. Kuttelwascher was awarded the DFC (20.5.42) and Bar (1.7.42). On July 9 he was posted to 23 Squadron at Ford. He began flying Mosquitos on night intruder operations but without success. He was awarded the Czech Military Cross (11.8.42). Kuttelwascher went to 42 Group, Maintenance Command on October 1 1942, to act as liaison with the Czech Inspectorate General. He was posted to special duties with the Inspectorate on June 10 1943 and was sent to the USA to recruit Czechs for the RAF, to lecture and to liaise with the USAAF. Kuttelwascher returned to the UK on December 12 and was posted to 32 MU, St Athan, as a member of the Test Flight, on January 24 1944. He flew back to Czechoslovakia on August 18 1945, was given the rank of Staff Captain and based in the military section of Prague airport. His British wife and their children followed. On May 21 1946 Kuttelwascher resigned from the Czech Air Force and five days later flew back to the UK, in an RAF Dakota. He qualified for a commercial licence and joined BEA in November 1946. He flew as First Officer on Vickers Vikings and eventually he was promoted to Captain.

PO 7.10.41 FO 7.11.42 FL 17.5.43

JOSEF KWIECINSKI 780691

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

145 Squadron

Kwiecinski was born on May 4 1917. He arrived in England in February 1940 and enlisted in the RAFVR on February 20 1940 (780691) at RAF Eastchurch. The Poles moved to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool on June 1 1940, to await a posting. Kwiecinski went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum on the 1st Polish Pilots’ Course, for testing and grading, which ran from July 5 to 13. On July 14 Kwiecinski arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, as an LAC, and converted to Hurricanes. He was posted to 145 Squadron at Westhampnett on August 4 1940, with the rank of Sergeant. On August 8 he made a local flight with 601 Squadron. On August 11 Kwiecinski probably destroyed a Bf 110 S of Swanage. Kwiecinski failed to return from a combat S of the Isle of Wight on the 12th, in Hurricane P 3391, and was reported ‘Missing’. He shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 in the action but this was never claimed because all three of the pilots in Kweicinski’s section were shot down and killed, Kwiecinski, Flight Lieutenant W Pankratz and Pilot Officer J H Harrison. Kwiecinski is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt.

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L EDWARD RICHARD LACEY 134518

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

two Bf 109s on the 5th and a He 111 on the 13th. In this engagement Lacey was hit by return fire from the Heinkel and had his radiator shot off. He baled out, with slight burns, and his Hurricane, P 2973, is believed to have crashed at Abbey Farm, Leeds, Kent. On the 15th Lacey destroyed a He 111 and two Bf 109s and damaged a third Bf 109. He was shot down over Ashford on the 17th and baled out, unhurt. His Hurricane, V 7357, is believed to have crashed at Winstead Court. He shot down a Bf 109 on the 27th, damaged a Ju 88 on the 30th, got a probable Bf 109 on October 7, destroyed Bf 109s on the 12th, 26th and 30th and on the latter day he also damaged another Bf 109. Lacey was awarded the DFM (23.8.40) and a Bar (26.11.40). Commissioned in January 1941, he was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on June 26 and appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander. Lacey destroyed a Bf 109 on July 10, damaged another on the 14th, destroyed a He 59 on the 17th and two more Bf 109s on the 24th. He was posted away to 57 OTU, Hawarden on August 18 1941, as an instructor. Lacey joined 602 Squadron at Kenley on March 10 1942 and damaged FW 190s on March 24 and April 25. He was posted to HQ 81 Group on May 7, as Tactics Officer. He went to the A&AEE, Boscombe Down on September 28 1942 to do research on rocket armament. He moved to No 1 pecial Attack Instructors’ School at Milfield on November 30, as Chief Instructor. Posted overseas on March 26 1943, Lacey arrived in India in June and was posted to 20 Squadron at Kalyan, to convert it from Lysanders to Hurricanes. On July 6 1943 he went to 1572 Gunnery Flight, to convert Blenheim bomber squadrons on to Hurricanes and later from Hurricanes to Thunderbolts. Lacey was posted to 155 Squadron, to command, on November 6 1944 but moved on the 23rd to take over 17 Squadron at Palel. He destroyed a Nakajima ‘Oscar’ on February 19 1945. In March 1946 Lacey led the squadron to Japan. He was posted back to the UK in May. Granted a Permanent Commission in December 1948, Lacey retired from the RAF on March 5 1967, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. Lacey’s portrait was done by both Eric Kennington and Cuthbert Orde. He died on May 30 1989. In accordance with his wishes, Lacey was cremated and his ashes were scattered from an aircraft over Bridlington.

219 Squadron

Lacey was born on August 18 1920. He joined 600 Squadron AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand (800662). He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. Called up on August 24 1939, Lacey completed his training and was posted to 219 Squadron at Catterick on July 20 1940. On the 30th Lacey was in a Blenheim, which had to make a belly-landing at Catterick, when its undercarriage could not be lowered. The propellers and under-fuselage guns were damaged but Lacey and Pilot Officer G M Head were both unhurt. Lacey appears to have been training as a radar operator during October 1940, whilst still flying as an Air Gunner. On October 25 he flew a sortie in a Blenheim, with Pilot Officer D M Lake, as an air gunner. On the 30th he flew again with Lake. This was his first operational sortie as a radar operator and was made in a Beaufighter. They returned to base when the AI equipment became unserviceable. Commissioned from Flight Sergeant in October 1942, Lacey was awarded the DSO (20.4.43), as a Pilot Officer with 90 Squadron, which operated in Stirlings from Ridgewell, Essex. He remained in the RAF, was made an OBE (13.6.70) and retired on August 18 1975, as a Wing Commander. Lacey died on March 10 1980. PO 30.10.42 FO 30.4.43 FL 30.10.44 FL 30.10.47 SL 1.7.58 WC 1.1.66

JAMES HARRY LACEY 60321

Sgt

Pilot

British

501

Squadron

PO 15.1.41 FO 22.9.41 FL 27.8.42 FL 1.9.45

Born at Wetherby, Yorkshire on February 1 1917, Lacey was educated at King James’ Grammar School, Knaresborough. He left school in 1933 and became an apprentice pharmacist.

WILLIAM LECKIE LACKIE 507102

Lacey joined the RAFVR on January 25 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740042) and was on the first course of Sergeant u/t pilots at 11 E&RFTS, Perth. He was the first one to solo and afterwards continued to fly at 4 E&RFTS, Brough at weekends. In late January 1939 he went on six weeks’ attachment to No 1 Squadron at Tangmere, for further training. Called up at the outbreak of war, Lacey joined 501 Squadron at Filton. He went to France with the squadron on May 10 1940. He destroyed a Bf 109, a He 111 and a Bf 110 on the 13th and two He 111s on the 27th. He returned to England when the squadron was withdrawn on June 19 and went to Croydon, after a brief stay in Jersey. Lacey was awarded the C de G (Fr) and received a Mention in Despatches. Lacey destroyed a Bf 109 on July 20, destroyed a Ju 87, probably another and probably a Bf 110 on August 12, damaged a Do 17 on the 15th, got a probable Bf 109 on the 16th, destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged a Do 17 on the 24th, shot down a Bf 109 on the 29th, destroyed a He 111 and probably a Bf 110 on the 30th and destroyed a Bf 109 on the 31st. He shot down two Bf 109s and damaged a Do 17 on September 2, destroyed another

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

141 Squadron

Lackie joined the RAF in late 1925, as an Aircrafthand. At some time he remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and, with training completed, he was posted to 141 Squadron at West Malling on August 20 1940. He was posted away on December 15 1940 to 255 Squadron, then recently reformed as a night-fighter unit at Kirton-in-Lindsey, with Defiants. No further service details traced.

HENRY GASTON LAFONT FR 2886

Adjudant

Pilot

French

245 and 615 Squadrons

Lafont was born in Cahors on August 10 1920. Attracted by flying, he obtained his pilot‘s licence. He joined l’Armée de l’Air and on November 4 1938 he entered the flying school at Istres. When the Armistice was signed on June 22 1940, Lafont was just finishing a course at the Fighter School at Oran.

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

ALEXANDER JAMES ALAN LAING

He flew to Gibraltar on June 30 with Mouchotte and four others in a Caudron Goeland. They sailed for England on July 3 1940, in the French armed trawler President Houduce, arriving in Liverpool on the 13th. Lafont was one of eleven French pilots who went to 4 S of TT, St Athan on July 25 1940, which was being partly used as a depot for the French. He moved to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum on July 29, for testing and grading and afterwards went to RAF Odiham on August 10, where he flew 15 hours on Tiger Moths and Hectors with No 1 Fighter Training Squadron of the Free French Air Force. Lafont was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 19, converted to Hurricanes and joined 245 Squadron at Aldergrove on September 11, moving to 615 Squadron at Prestwick on the 18th. After a period of training, Lafont moved south with 615 to Northolt, on October 9. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on February 26 1941 and was the only one of his formation of six to return safely to base. On March 15 Lafont probably destroyed a Bf 109. On June 15 1941 he was posted to 59 OTU, Crosby-on-Eden, as an instructor for French pilots coming from 10 FTS at Ternhill. Lafont went to the Middle East in late December 1941, to join the Groupe Alsace, which had operated in the Western Desert since 1940 as the Free French Flight. He was disappointed to find Gladiators and very old Hurricanes. After a months training, the unit was declared operational and was engaged in convoy patrols between Alexandria and Tobruk. In May 1942 Lafont volunteered to join the Normandie Squadron, then being formed in the Lebanon, for service in Russia. At this time the Groupe Alsace was short of pilots and Lafont elected to remain with it for a while. He was shot down and wounded and because of this he was declared unfit for Russia. Lafont returned to Britain with the Groupe Alsace. It was expanded to squadron strength and re-numbered as 341 Squadron at Turnhouse on January 1 1943. After the war Lafont remained in l’Armée de l’Air until he retired in 1966. He was in Algeria during the conflict there and spent six years in London. After he lost his fighter pilot status for medical reasons he flew helicopters. The youngest of the Free French pilots who took part in the Battle of Britain, Lafont was also the last survivor of the group who had escaped in June 1940 to carry on the fight. He was a Compagnon de la l’Ordre de Libération and a Commander of the Légion d’Honneur. From 1967 to 1984 he was Director General of the Paris Air Show. He died on December 2 2011. His funeral was a national occasion at Les Invalides in Paris. Lafont had never claimed his Battle of Britain Clasp and, in 2012, it was presented to his family by the British Ambassador to France.

39993

FL

Pilot

Polish

Pilot

British

64 Squadron

Born in May 1913, Laing went to George Heriot’s School in Edinburgh, then on to Edinburgh University. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 24 1937 at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield. Laing went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge for a short disciplinary course on August 8 and then moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill on the 21st. With the course completed, Laing was posted to 5 Armament Training Camp at Penrhos on February 14 1938, after which he joined the staff of the School of Naval Co-operation at Ford on March 26. Laing joined 64 Squadron at Church Fenton on February 20 1939. Then equipped with Blenheims, the squadron received Spitfires in April 1940. He damaged a Bf 109 on August 15 and probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged two He 111s on the 16th. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on September 9 1940, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. He was posted away to 2 CFS, Cranwell on December 12 1940, for an instructor’s course and from mid-January 1941 until May 1943 Laing instructed at 12 EFTS, Prestwick; 19 EFTS, Sealand and 15 EFTS, Carlisle. On June 25 1943 Laing was in Canada, beginning a short course at 3 FIS, Arnprior. He then instructed at 35 EFTS, Neepawa and 31 EFTS, De Winton. On August 26 1944 he went to No 1 CFS, Trenton, Ontario for a course, moved to 2 FIS, Pearce on October 1, as CFI, and finally to 17 SFTS, Souris on January 5 1945. Laing returned to the UK in early May 1945 and was released from the RAF in November. He rejoined in June 1946 and was posted to HQ Scottish Command at Turnhouse, as Air Staff Officer i/c Auxiliary and University Air Squadrons for Scotland. He transferred to the RCAF Reserve and emigrated to Canada in 1947. In 1987 Laing retired after fifty years in aviation. It is not known when he died but a memorial plaque to him was unveiled at George Heriot’s School on November 11 2005. APO 9.8.37 PO 24.5.38 FO 24.12.39 FL 24.12.40 SL 1.3.42 SL 25.6.46

ROBERT INGLIS LAING 391360

Sgt

Pilot

New Zealander

151 Squadron

Laing was born on March 11 1913 in Wynyard, Tasmania. He was working as a bank clerk in New Zealand, when he volunteered for flying duties after the outbreak of war. He went to the Ground Training School at Weraroa on November 20 1939, moved to 2 EFTS, New Plymouth on December 18 and then to 2 FTS, Woodbourne on March 11 1940.

PIOTR LAGUNA P 1287

FO

302 Squadron

When the blitzkrieg started on May 10, the unit was at Lyon-Bron airfield. After being bombed, it moved to Mions, to defend the Lyon district, and on June 6 moved to Dreux, with Caudron C 714s. On the 8th five Polish pilots attacked a formation of Bf 110s over Rouen and destroyed five without loss. On the 9th three enemy aircraft were destroyed and on the 10th three more enemy aircraft were shot down but the Polish CO was seriously wounded. Laguna took command, the unit moved to Semaises on the 11th and received some Bloch MB 152s. Eight of the pilots were sent to Groupe de Chasse I/1. For the rest, a move to Chateauroux was made on the 13th, for airfield and local protection duties, and on the 17th to Rochefort, to defend the airfield there. On the 19th the Poles left La Rochelle by boat for England. They arrived there on June 12. They went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await posting. .Laguna joined the newly-formed 302 Squadron at Leconfield on July 26 1940, as joint ‘A’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. He went to Duxford on September 15, with a 302 detachment, to fly with the Bader Big Wing. The attachment ceased on the 25th and the pilots and aircraft returned to Leconfield. After a patrol on October 19 1940, Laguna became non-effective sick and he did not fly another sortie until November 5. He was awarded the KW (23.12.40) and on December 31 took command of the squadron. Laguna was again promoted on May 27 1941 and appointed to lead the Northolt Wing. On June 27 1941 Laguna led the Wing over France. At low-level he was shot down by ground fire near Coquelles, in the Calais area, in Spitfire P 8331. He was reported ‘Missing, presumed killed’. Laguna is buried in Pihen-les-Guines Cemetery. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (15.7.41).

With the course completed, Laing sailed for the UK on July 12 in the RMS Rangitane. After arrival on August 27, he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge and to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 11. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 151 Squadron at Digby on the 30th. Laing flew two operational sorties in October, on the 18th and 27th. On November 7 1940 he joined 73 Squadron at Debden. He left there on the 9th for Birkenhead, where the squadron embarked on the carrier HMS Furious on the 10th, en route for the Middle East. The Hurricanes were flown off to Takoradi on the 29th and they took off in sixes on the ferry route to Heliopolis, via Lagos, Accra, Maiduguri, Khartoum, Wadi Halfa and Abu Sueir. The Blenheim leading Laing’s group lost its bearings and the Hurricanes had to make a forced-landing in the Sudan. There was some delay, whilst some aircraft awaited repairs. On arrival in Egypt, the 73 Squadron pilots were attached to 274 Squadron in the Western Desert and 73 Squadron did not become operational on its own account until early January 1941. On the 6th Laing damaged a CR 42 SE of Tobruk. In April the squadron was operating within the perimeter of Tobruk. On May 23 1941 Laing flew one of six Hurricanes that were sent to Crete, to strafe enemy ground targets. He was the only one to reach the island. Two Hurricanes were shot down by British warships and three others lost contact with the guiding aircraft. Laing landed but before he could take off again, his aircraft was destroyed in an attack by German bombers. He was later picked up by Pilot Officer G E Goodman of 73 in a Hurricane and flew back to Tobruk with Goodman on his lap. Some time later Laing was strafing a German landing ground. After setting fire to two enemy aircraft on the ground, his own radiator was hit by flak. Fumes poured into the cockpit as he headed for Tobruk, closely pursued by two Bf 109s. Hit again, Laing began to lose height. He skimmed across the clifftops and crashed in flames in a wadi. Convinced that he was still in enemy territory, Laing got out of the burning aircraft and hid in a cave, where he was found by a British patrol and taken in to Tobruk. Commissioned in October 1941, Laing was awarded the DFC (3.4.42), still with 73 Squadron. He returned to New Zealand in late 1943 and went on to the Reserve in March 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant.

FL 1.3.41

PO 14.10.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 1.4.44

Born on November 11 1905, Laguna was in the PAF before the war. After Poland fell, he escaped to France and in early May 1940 he was in the Groupe de Chasse Polonaise de Varsovie I/145, flying MS 406s.

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DONALD MILLAR LAKE 42234

PO

Pilot

British

for staff pilot duties. He did not fly operationally again. He was awarded the AFC (26.10.43). He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Squadron Leader. In June 1946 he began to reform 610 Squadron at Hooton Park, it having been disbanded on March 3 1945. Lamb commanded the squadron from July 31 1946 to March 1950.

219 Squadron

Lake, of Harrow, Middlesex, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty on May 1 1939, as a pupil pilot.

PO (AAF) 25.4.38 FO 25.10.39 FL 25.10.40 SL 1.12.41 SL (AAFRO) 1.8.46 He went on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 12 Course, which ran from July 10 to December 9 1939. He joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on December 16. Lake damaged a Ju 88 S of Flamborough Head in the afternoon of August 15 1940. He was killed on September 4 1941, as a Flying Officer with the Fighter Interception Unit, when his Beaufighter, R 2335, crashed at Eastergate, Sussex. Flight Sergeant J E Bignell (qv) was killed, as well as Flight Sergeant F E Greaney. Lake was 20. He is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Tangmere.

ROBERT LIONEL LAMB 82718

Radar Operator

British

25 Squadron

Lamb joined the RAFVR about June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. He almost certainly volunteered for aircrew duties and was sent on a short radar course, after which he joined 25 Squadron at North Weald about October 8 1940. He flew a total of five operational sorties during October 1940, the first on the 14th and the last on the 26th. No further service details traced. Lamb died on January 5 1948.

OWEN EDWARD LAMB 42411

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

151 Squadron

Lamb was born in Auckland on May 10 1917. Early in 1939 he applied for an RAF short service commission, was provisionally accepted and sailed for the UK on May 6 in the RMS Rangitane.

RODERICK RUSSELL LAMB Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

British

British

804 Squadron

He embarked on HMS Glorious with a detachment of 804 on April 22 1940 and flew from the carrier to Campbeltown in Scotland on May 7. Lamb was on leave, when he was posted from 804 to a Skua squadron on HMS Ark Royal on June 16. He was recalled from leave but he arrived back after the carrier had sailed, so he remained with 804, then at Hatston. The squadron operated during part of the Battle of Britain, flying Gladiators on dockyard defence. Lamb was with ‘A’ Flight when it embarked on the carrier HMS Furious on September 5 1940. The flight returned to Hatston three days later. On December 9 1940 he was posted to 802 Squadron, then forming at Donibristle for HMS Audacity, the first escort carrier. In September 1941 Lamb was with the carrier, which carried six Martlet fighters. She sailed for Gibraltar on the 13th, with her first convoy, OG 74. On the 15th Lamb was on patrol, when he sighted a U-boat submerging. He attacked but without any apparent effect. On October 29 Audacity sailed for Gibraltar, escorting convoy OG 76. Lamb, on patrol, sighted two Kondors and attacked one before it escaped into cloud. A fellowpilot, Sub-Lieutenant D A Hutchinson of 802 Squadron, intercepted and shot down the second one. On December 14 1941 convoy HG 76, escorted by Audacity, sailed from Gibraltar. On the 19th Lamb attacked and damaged a Kondor. Two days later the Audacity was torpedoed and sunk by U 751 NE of the Azores. Lamb survived the sinking but two FAA pilots were lost. Lamb joined 881 Squadron for HMS Illustrious on February 25 1942. He was killed on August 24 1942, in a flying accident. He had taken off from Mackinnon Road airfield in a Martlet. The aircraft stalled in a turn and spun into the ground, exploding on impact. Lamb was 22. He is buried in Mbaraki Cemetery, Mombasa, Kenya.

PETER GILBERT LAMB Pilot

Pilot

Lamb entered the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on July 4 1938, as a Midshipman, on a seven-year engagement. With training completed, he joined 804 Squadron on November 30 1939, when it was formed with Sea Gladiators.

APO 5.8.39 PO 28.2.40

FL

600 Squadron

PO 24.6.40 FO 9.5.41 FL 9.5.42

On June 12 1939 Lamb began his elementary flying training at 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury and moved on to 2 FTS, Brize Norton for No 40 Course, which ran from August 21 1939 to February 17 1940. With his training completed Lamb was posted to 7 AGS, Newton Down for a gunnery course, after which he was sent to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, to convert to Hurricanes. On April 13 Lamb began a Specialist Armament Officer’s Course at No 1 Air Armament School at Manby. On August 31 1940 he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down for a Hurricane refresher course and then joined 151 Squadron at Digby on September 17. Lamb volunteered for overseas service in early November and joined 73 Squadron at Debden on the 7th. The squadron left Debden on the 9th for Birkenhead and embarked on the carrier HMS Furious on the 10th, en route for the Middle East. They flew their Hurricanes off to Takoradi on the 29th and then flew in easy stages to Heliopolis, via Lagos, Accra, Kano, Maiduguri, Khartoum, Wadi Halfa and Abu Sueir. On arrival, the pilots were attached to 274 Squadron in the Western Desert. 73 Squadron became operational on its own account at Sidi Heneish in early January 1941. The Luftwaffe mounted a heavy attack against Tobruk on April 14 1941, with a force of more than ninety fighters and bombers. 73 Squadron was operating from within the perimeter defences that day and took off to engage the enemy. After the action, Lamb failed to return to base and his body was later found and was buried in an isolated grave near the Tobruk-Bardia road. After the war, Lamb’s remains were re-interred in the Knightsbridge War Cemetery, Acroma, Libya.

90349

British

He was sent, with twelve other 601 trainee gunners, to 5 B&GS, Jurby for No 7B (Fighter) Air Gunner Course, which ran from March 11 to 23 1940, for partially-trained gunners from fighter squadrons. With the course completed, they returned to the squadron at Tangmere, to find that 601’s Blenheims had been replaced by Hurricanes. In May these newly-qualified air gunners were posted to 600 Squadron at Manston, to replace men lost when the squadron lost five aircraft on a daylight raid on Waalhaven airfield, Rotterdam on May 10. Lamb was commissioned from Corporal on June 24 1940 and served with the squadron until December 5, when he was posted to 256 Squadron, then reforming at Catterick with Defiants. In the early hours of May 8 1941 Lamb, flying with Pilot Officer D Toone, shot down a He 111 of III/KG 55. It crashed in the River Dee Marshes, Bagilt, Flintshire. Later in the war Lamb was with 35 (Pathfinder) Squadron, operating in Halifaxes from Graveley. After 23 operations, his aircraft was shot down and Lamb was captured. At some time, he was held in Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan and Belaria (PoW No 3490). Freed in May 1945, Lamb was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1992.

ALBERT LAMB AC

Air Gunner

Lamb joined 601 Squadron, AAF in 1938, as an Aircrafthand (801349). Called up on August 24 1939, he began training as an Air Gunner with the squadron.

APO 24.6.39 PO 16.12.39 FO 16.12.40

1003621

PO

610 Squadron

Lamb was born in Liverpool in 1914 and educated at Durham School. He later lived in America and gave a home address in New Orleans when he joined 610 Squadron, AAF in early 1938. He reported for full-time service with the squadron in late October 1939. On July 3 1940 he shared a Do 17, on August 24 he destroyed a Bf 109, on the 26th destroyed a Do 17, on the 29th a Bf 110 and on the 30th a He 111. Lamb was posted away from the squadron on October 28 1940, to 10 FTS, Ternhill,

Midshipman 4.7.38 Acting Sub-Lt 14.3.40

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HUGH MICHAEL STANFORD LAMBERT 39419

FO

Pilot

British

On August 10 he was sent to CGS, Warmwell for No 9 Gunnery Leaders’ Course and then rejoined 141. Lammer retrained as a Radio Observer on Beaufighters and was posted to 409 (RCAF) Squadron at Coleby Grange on November 1 1941. He went to 255 Squadron at Coltishall on February 5 1942, as Navigation Leader. The squadron flew to Gibraltar on November 14 and landed at Maison Blanche, Algiers the next day. Lammer went with a detachment to Souk-el-Arba on December 5. He assisted in the destruction of a He 111 and two Cant 1007s on the 6th, flying with Squadron Leader J H Player. On December 15 and 17 two Ju 88s were destroyed, with Wing Commander D P D G Kelly. Lammer was awarded the DFC (16.2.43). On June 25, flying again with Player, Lammer assisted in destroying a Cant 1007. The detachment at Souk-el-Arba ended on July 31. With his tour completed, Lammer returned to the UK and was posted as Squadron Leader i/c Radar and Navigation at 62 OTU, Ouston on September 21 1943. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (29.10.43). Lammer went to 54 OTU, Charter Hall, as Senior Navigation Radar Instructor, on June 5 1945. He received a Mention in Despatches (14.6.45) and was released on November 7 1945, as a Squadron Leader. He went into photography and had his own studio, specialising in photographing children. Lammer later taught at Guildford and the London School of Art. After retirement he taught part time at the Royal College of Art and was made an Honorary Fellow. His photographs were used on Royal Mail stamps. He was a passionate supporter of the Pestalozzi Children’s Village. Lammer died on October 4 2000.

25 Squadron

Lambert was born on December 19 1918, the son of an RFC officer. He was educated at the Imperial Service College and in 1936 he joined the RAF on a short service commission. He began his ab initio course at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty on November 16, as a pupil Pilot. Lambert went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge for a short disciplinary course on January 27 1937. He was posted to 2 FTS, Digby on February 12 1937 and at the end of the course he spent a month at 5 Armament Training Camp at Penrhos. On August 27 1937 Lambert joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge, equipped with Furies. The squadron converted to two-seater Demons in October 1937, and returned to single seaters in June 1938, with Gladiators, and in December it was again re-equipped, this time with Blenheims. On the 13th Lambert went to Cranfield for a twin-engine conversion course. He received a Mention in Despatches on February 20 1940. He was still with 25 at the beginning of the Battle of Britain. On August 16 1940 Lambert was attached to the AFDU at Northolt. From September 3 he was attached to 6 RSS, RAF Biggin Hill for special duties. In the early evening of September 15 he was flying in a Blenheim, with LAC J P Wyatt as crew. They collided with a Beaufighter of 25 Squadron and crashed near the airfield at Biggin Hill. Both men were killed. Flying Officer M J Miley was killed in the Beaufighter and the pilot, Flying Officer B G Hooper, survived. Lambert was cremated at Henley Road Crematorium, Reading.

APO 15.3.4 PO 4.5.40 FO 4.5.41 FL 4.5.42

LESLIE NINIAN LANDELS 84695

PO

Pilot

British

Landels joined the RAFVR about December 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740963). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training, was commissioned and then sent to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum on August 24 1940, presumably for a course.

APO 28.1.37 PO 16.11.3 FO 16.8.39

WILLIAM GAVIN MEIN LAMBIE 42235

PO

Pilot

British

219 Squadron He may have volunteered for Fighter Command because he arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 4, converted to Hurricanes and was posted to 32 Squadron at Acklington on September 21. Landels moved to 3 Squadron at Turnhouse on the 27th and to 615 at Northolt on October 11. After destroying a Bf 109 on November 8, he was shot down over Maidstone and made a crash-landing at Challock, in Hurricane V 7652, slightly injured. Landels was admitted to hospital and was posted to RAF Northolt, as non-effective sick. It is not known where he was after recovery but in late 1941 Landels was in the Far East. He commanded 232 Squadron at Seletar, Singapore briefly in January 1942, before being killed on the 20th, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. Landels is remembered on the Singapore Memorial, Column 411.

Lambie, of Edinburgh, joined the RAF on May 1 1939 on a short service commission and began his ab initio course, as a pupil pilot, at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham. He went to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 12 Course, which ran from July 10 to December 9 1939. With training completed, Lambie joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on December 16. On August 2 1940 Lambie was captain of Blenheim L 8962, which overshot the runway at RAF Leeming, not using flaps. He then raised the undercarriage to avoid running on to the Great North Road. Lambie and his gunner, Sergeant R Bell, were both unhurt. In the afternoon of August 15 Lambie damaged a He 111 in the area of Scarborough-Flamborough Head. On November 15 Lambie was killed in Beaufighter R 2084, which crashed near Kenley, cause unknown. He is buried in Nutfield Cemetery, Surrey.

PO 24.8.40 FO 17.8.41

BRIAN JOHN EDWARD LANE

APO 24.6 39 PO 16.12.39

37859

ALFRED LAMMER 81940

PO

Air Gunner

32, 3 and 615 Squadrons

Stateless

FL

Pilot

British

19 Squadron Born in Harrogate on June 18 1917, Lane grew up in Pinner, Middlesex and was educated at St Paul’s School. In 1935 he lost his job as a supervisor in an electric bulb factory and he applied for a short service commission in the RAF.

141 Squadron

Lammer was born Alfred Ritter von Lammer in Linz, Austria on November 28 1909. His father had been a railway official and his mother was a businesswoman. Lammer studied in Munich and Innsbruck and became a member of an Austrian anti-Nazi volunteer group. In 1934 he went to London to work for the Austrian Travel Bureau.

Provisionally accepted, he began his ab initio training at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble on March 22 1936. Lane went to 11 FTS, Wittering on June 1, completed the course and then joined 66 Squadron at Duxford on January 8 1937. Lane was posted to 213 Squadron on March 8 1937 at its reformation at Northolt. He left the squadron on September 10 1939, when he joined 19 Squadron at Duxford, as ‘A’ Flight

When Germany invaded Austria in 1938 he was offered German citizenship but being bitterly anti-Nazi, he declined and was declared stateless as a consequence. Lammer lost his job and for a year he lived on his savings and studied photography. At the outbreak of war Lammer volunteered for the RAF but did not hold out much hope of being accepted, but he was granted an Emergency Commission in March 1940, for training as an Air Gunner. He did not become a British citizen until May 22 1941. After initial ground training at Loughborough, Lammer went on a gunnery course at 9 B&GS, Penrhos on April 8 1940. He joined 254 Squadron on May 4 and was immediately attached to 206 Squadron, flying in Hudsons on convoy escorts. On July 9 Lammer was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down, where he converted to Defiants before joining 141 Squadron at Prestwick on the 24th.

Commander. When the CO was killed over Dunkirk on May 25 1940, Lane took temporary command. On the 26th he claimed a Ju 87 and a Bf 109 destroyed and a Bf 109 probably destroyed and on June 1 a probable Bf 110. He relinquished his temporary command on May 31. He was awarded the DFC (30.7.40). On August 24 Lane claimed a Bf 110 destroyed. The CO, Squadron Leader P C Pinkham (q.v.), was killed on September 5. Lane was given command of the squadron, as an Acting Squadron Leader. He destroyed Bf 110s on the 5th and the 7th, destroyed two more and damaged a He 111 on the 11th and probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 15th. Lane was shot down by a Hurricane on November 8 and made a forced-landing at

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Langdon went to 4 Ferry Pilots’ Pool, Kemble for a refresher course on June 17. After soloing on Ansons, he was posted to 12 OTU, Benson on the 30th, where he converted to Battles and afterwards joined 142 Squadron at Eastchurch on August 24. Langdon probably volunteered for Fighter Command in response to a call for pilots. He joined 43 Squadron at Usworth on September 21 and having bypassed OTU, he had to be converted to Hurricanes. He flew five operational sorties with 43 before he was posted away on November 3 1940 to the Air Gunners’ School at 7 B&GS, Newton Down, as a staff pilot on Whitleys. After only a week, he joined 145 Squadron at Tangmere and shot down a Bf 109 on November 15. In early December Langdon was posted away and embarked on HMS Furious on the 17th, for an unknown destination. There were 25 Hurricanes aboard, with wings unattached. On January 9 1941 Langdon flew off the carrier to Takoradi and then flew north in easy stages, via Lagos, Kano, Maiduguri, Khartoum, Wadi Halfa and arrived in Abu Sueir on January 14. He flew to LG 2 in the Western Desert on the 22nd and then flew to Hal Far, Malta, via Gazala, on the 29th. Langdon joined 261 Squadron at Ta Kali on the 30th and flew his first operational patrol the next day. He failed to return from an interception patrol on February 26 1941, in Hurricane V 7474. He is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 1, Column 1.

Eastchurch. He shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 on November 15. Posted away from 19 Squadron on June 20 1941, Lane went to HQ 12 Group, Watnall, on staff duties. He was posted to Air HQ Western Desert on January 28 1942, moving to HQ RAF Middle East on February 13. In July 1942 Lane returned to the UK and on September 16 he went to 61 OTU, Montford Bridge, for a Spitfire refresher course. On December 9 1942 Lane was attached to 167 Squadron at Ludham, as a supernumerary Squadron Leader, to regain operational experience. Four days later he was up in the morning for a familiarisation flight. In the afternoon Lane took off with three other pilots for a Rhubarb operation over Holland. They got into combat with FW 190s. After the engagement, Lane had disappeared and despite a search, he was not seen again. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 65. Lane wrote a book, Spitfire, published under the pseudonym of B J Ellan in 1942. In 2011 a plaque was unveiled on Lane’s former home in Pinner. Among those present was Wing Commander Kevin Marsh, at the time the Officer Commanding 19 Squadron. APO 18.5.36 PO 23.3.37 FO 23.12.38 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

APO 20.9.39 PO 8.6.40

ROY LANE 41028

PO

Pilot

British

43 Squadron

NEVILLE CHARLES LANGHAM-HOBART 77792

Lane, of Southampton, joined the RAF on June 27 1938 on a short service commission and began his ab initio course, as a pupil pilot.

PO

Pilot

British

73 Squadron

Langham-Hobart was born in Newcastle and went to the Royal Grammar School there. In August 1939 he joined 607 Squadron, AAF, as an LAC u/t Pilot (807341). A scheme was introduced in October 1938 for the AAF to train its own NCO pilots. He had probably completed his elementary flying training before he was called up on August 24 1939.

No details are known of Lane’s service until July 1 1940, when he arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden. He converted to Hurricanes and then joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere on July 13. He damaged three He 111s on August 12, damaged two more on the 13th and 15th, he damaged a Ju 87 on the 16th and destroyed another on the 18th. In combat with He 111s over Portsmouth on August 26, Lane was shot down in Hurricane P 3220 and probably crashed at Wittering, Sussex. Wounded and badly burned, Lane was admitted to the West Sussex Hospital, Chichester and then went to the Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, where he underwent plastic surgery by Archie McIndoe and became a Guinea Pig. After leaving hospital, Lane was sent on a speaking tour of the aircraft factories. He rejoined 43 Squadron, then at Drem, on March 10 1941. He was posted away to CFS, Upavon on March 22. In 1942 Lane was with the MSFU at Speke. On May 21 he sailed from Iceland in convoy PQ 16, to set up MSFU Pool at Archangel. Lane returned to the UK in November 1942, in convoy QP 15, as pilot on the Empire Moon. From the beginning of 1943 Camships were no longer used on Russian convoys, having been replaced by auxiliary carriers. Lane was posted to India in late 1943 and went in the SS Strathmore. He volunteered to go into Burma and operate with the Chindits, as Air Liaison Officer to Brigadier Bernard Fergusson. When the Chindits reached their area of operations in Japanese occupied territory they built an airstrip and a Hurricane was flown in for Lane to use. Returning to the strip after a liaison trip to India, the aircraft had engine trouble and Lane forced-landed in the jungle twenty miles E of the Chindwin River. The RAF dropped supplies and information to him but Lane was captured by the Japanese and is believed to have been beheaded by them on April 26 1944. He was 24 and is buried in Taukkyan War Cemetery, Rangoon, Burma.

He was posted to 7 FTS, Peterborough for No 12 Course, which ran from October 9 1939 to March 6 1940. With the course completed, he was commissioned and he joined 611 Squadron at Digby on March 17 1940. Langham-Hobart went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on April 28. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted on May 11 to 73 Squadron and joined it in France on the 13th. After the French collapse, the squadron was withdrawn on June 17 to Church Fenton. On July 29 Langham-Hobart went to RAF St Athan to the School of Air Navigation for No 1 Fighter Pilots’ short navigation course. He rejoined 73 on August 23 1940. On September 7 Langham-Hobart claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and another damaged and on the 15th he damaged another. He was shot down over the Thames Estuary on September 23, in Hurricane L 2036. Severely burned, he was rescued from the sea by the Navy and admitted to the Royal Naval Hospital, Chatham. Langham-Hobart later moved to the Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, where he had skin grafts on face and legs, becoming a Guinea Pig. In 1941 he was posted to the Ministry of Aircraft Production and visited munition factories, speaking to the workers. He later went to Canada, where, after doing a specialist navigation course at Goderich, Ontario, he instructed at Charlotte Town, Prince Edward Island. Back in the UK Langham-Hobart went to the Air Ministry and later moved to HQ 13 Group, Newcastle, as Navigation Officer. He went to HQ Cairo and was given the job of setting up mobile light beacons between Tripoli and Algiers. With this task completed, he was appointed CGI at Abu Sueir. Langham-Hobart returned to the UK, did an intensive course on radar systems at RAF Shawbury and then returned to Air HQ, Cairo. His final posting was as CO of RAF Port Reitz at Mombasa. He returned to the UK and was released from the RAF in September 1945, as a Squadron Leader. He died in Newcastle in September 1994, aged 82.

APO 20.8.38 PO 27.6.39 FO 3.12.40 FL 3.12.41

PO 7.3.40 FO 7.3.41 FL 7.3.42

CHARLES EDWARD LANGDON 43705

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

43 Squadron

GERALD ARCHIBALD LANGLEY 81641

Born at Hawera on August 21 1918, Langdon was educated at the High School there. After leaving, he was employed as a costing clerk.

PO

Pilot

British

41 Squadron

Born in Stony Stratford, Langley was educated at Wolverhampton Grammar School. In 1936 the family moved to Northampton and he went to work for the Prudential Assurance Company.

Langdon applied for an RAF short service commission in February 1939 and he was accepted for training in New Zealand. He reported to the Ground Training School at Rongotai on September 20, after which he began his flying training at No 1 EFTS, Taieri on October 21. He moved on to No 1 FTS, Wigram on December 19. Langdon was awarded his flying badge on February 13 1940 and at the end of the course, he was graded as a future lightbomber pilot. He sailed for the UK on April 26, in the RMS Rangitiki, and after arriving on June 8 1940, he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, where he transferred into the RAF.

He joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745439). Called up on September 1, he had further training and went to 6 FTS, Little Rissington for No 17 Course, which ran from December 9 1939 to June 17 1940. Langley was commissioned and joined 41 Squadron at Catterick direct from FTS on June 18. On September 11 1940 Langley damaged a Ju 88 and was then shot down by return fire over Sevenoaks, in Spitfire X 4325. He baled out, unhurt.

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Lansdell was shot down and killed by a Bf 109 on September 17 1940. His Hurricane, P 3860, crashed by The Bell at Beltring. He was 23 and is buried in St Margaret’s churchyard, Hempnall, Norfolk. He is remembered on a memorial plaque in the church. Lansdell’s uncle, Private R H Lansdell, was killed on October 31 1917, aged 20. He was serving with the 4th Battalion of the East Yorkshire Regiment. He is buried in Poperinge Cemetery, Belgium.

On September 15 Langley was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 109s. His Spitfire, P 9324, is believed to be the one which crashed and burned out at Wick House, Bulphan. Langley was 24. He is buried in Sts Peter and Paul churchyard, Abington, Northamptonshire. PO 18.6.40

LEONARD LANGLEY 101648

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

23 Squadron

Born on October 4 1915 in London, Langley was educated at Barrett Road Elementary School, Walthamstow and then at Clark’s College, Walthamstow. The son of a wholesale fish merchant at Billingsgate, Langley set up business as a butcher in Mile End Road. At the outbreak of war he sold his business and joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner (968409).

STANISLAW LAPKA 76702

FRANCIS CHARLES ANTHONY LANNING Air Gunner

British

141 Squadron

Born on February 28 1907, Lanning went to St Paul’s School. He was commissioned in the RAFVR in May 1940 as a direct-entry Air Gunner. Lanning joined 141 Squadron at Turnhouse in June and on July 8 he was badly injured in a runway landing collision. He was admitted to Gogarburn Emergency Hospital, Edinburgh and was in there until August 14. After 24 days sick leave, he rejoined 141 Squadron. Lanning was detached from 141 to CGS, Warmwell on October 4 1940, for No 11 Gunnery Leader course, which ran from October 7 to November 1. He rejoined 141 on the 6th. During the night of May 6/7 1941 Lanning was flying with Flying Officer R L F Day, when he shot down a He 111. On a later patrol the same night they shot down a Ju 88, which made a forced-landing on Holy Island, Northumberland. The aircraft was burned by the crew, who were all four made PoW. Lanning and Day were each awarded the DFC (6.6.41). Lanning was posted to 410 (RCAF) Squadron at Ayr on July 14 1941. He moved to 289 Squadron at Turnhouse, when it was formed there on November 20 1941, for anti-aircraft co-operation duties. In January 1944 Lanning was appointed Air-to-Ground Range Officer at RAF Predannack. In August 1945 Lanning became OC HQ 701 Air Disarmament Wing at Graz, Austria and his final posting was as Camp Commandant at RAF Klagenfurt, Austria on June 18 1946. He was released from the RAF in November 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. Lanning died on February 21 2002.

WACLAW LAPKOWSKI P 1506

Pilot

British

PO

Pilot

Polish

303 Squadron

Born on November 6 1913, Lapkowski was in the PAF before the war. In September 1939 he was serving with 112 Eskadra. On the 6th he shared in the destruction of a He 111 and a Do 17 and on the 9th he destroyed a He 111. On September 17 Lapkowski flew his P 11C to Romania, when the Russians invaded Poland. He made his way to France and joined l’Armée de l’Air. He served with a fighter section, defending an aircraft factory at Romorantin. After the fall of France he went to England and was sent to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool. From there he joined 303 Squadron at its formation at Northolt on August 2 1940. He claimed a Ju 88 destroyed on September 5 and was himself shot down by a Bf 109, in combat over Gillingham. He baled out, with a broken arm and burns, landed at Hawkwell and was admitted to Rochford Hospital. His Hurricane, P 2985, crashed at Bonvill’s Farm, North Benfleet. He was posted to RAF Northolt on September 10, as non-effective sick. Lapkowski did not rejoin 303 Squadron and resume operational flying until January 6 1941. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (23.12.40).

JOHN LANSDELL Sgt

302 Squadron

PO 24.1.40 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.3.42

APO 18.5.40 PO 15.6.40 FO 15.6.41 FL 15.6.42

740990

Polish

He went to 15 EFTS, Redhill, probably in February, then to the Polish Training Unit at Hucknall in March. The Unit was redesignated 18 OTU on June 15 1940. Lapka arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge from 18 OTU on June 23. He and five pilots with him were the first Poles to join Fighter Command. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 302 Squadron at Leconfield on July 16, joining it next day. He went to Duxford with a 302 Squadron detachment on September 13, to operate with the Bader Big Wing. Lapka shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on the 15th. In the action his Hurricane, V 6569, was hit by return fire and set alight. He baled out and broke his leg on landing. He was admitted to Ely Hospital and discharged next day. He went on convalescence to the RAF Officers’ Hospital, Torquay on October 8. Back with 302, Lapka shared in destroying a Ju 88 S of the Isle of Wight on December 10 1940 and shared another Ju 88 on March 28 1941. He was awarded the KW (10.9.41), became ‘B’ Flight Commander on January 7 1942, received a Bar to the KW (20.8.42) and took command of 302 Squadron on August 26 1942. Lapka probably destroyed a FW 190 on September 7. He was posted away to a course for squadron COs on January 14 1943, after which he was appointed as Liaison Officer at HQ 11 Group. Lapka was awarded the VM (5th Class) (29.5.43). He returned to operations on January 1 1944, when he took command of 306 Squadron at Llanbedr. Lapka destroyed a Bf 109 and was reported ‘Missing’ on June 7. When he eventually turned up safely, he did not return to the squadron but went to the PAF Depot on August 26 1944. He was posted to HQ ADGB on October 20, as Squadron Leader Tactics and Organisation. He went to a course at PAF Staff College on September 17 1945 and was released from the PAF in 1947, as a Squadron Leader. Lapka settled in England and died there in 1978.

PO 12.7.41 FO 12.7.42 FL 12.7.43 FL 23.10.47

PO

Pilot

Born in Borzyny, Warsaw on August 15 1915, Lapka joined the PAF in 1936. After Poland fell, he went to England and was at RAF Eastchurch from January 1940. He was commissioned in the RAFVR on the 24th.

After completing his training, Langley joined 23 Squadron at Collyweston on July 9 1940. He was awarded the DFM (30.5.41) the squadron’s first, being then credited with assisting in the destruction of three enemy aircraft at night. Commissioned in July 1941, Langley had by then retrained as a Radio Observer. He later qualified as a Navigator/Radar. Langley was released from the RAF in 1946, with the rank of Flight Lieutenant. He rejoined in 1947 and retrained as a pilot. In August 1953 Langley was Deputy Flight Commander with 48 Squadron in Kuala Lumpur. On September 26 1953 he was captain of a Valetta on a supply operation to troops in Northern Malaya. The aircraft crashed in the jungle and all eight men aboard were killed.

79580

PO

607 Squadron

Lansdell was an Associate Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society and had a First Class Honours Diploma in Aeronautics. He joined the RAFVR in 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740990). Called up on September 1 1939, Lansdell completed his training at 3 FTS, South Cerney on No 32 Course, which ran from January 31 to June 15 1940. He joined 607 Squadron at Usworth from 3 FTS on June 19.

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ARNOLD JOHN LAUDER

He returned from a sweep over France on the 22nd with 25 yards of telephone wire round his engine. Lapkowski was appointed a Flight Commander on February 20 1941, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. He was awarded the KW (1.4.41) and was wounded on April 13 1941 and admitted to hospital. On May 5 he took command of 303 Squadron, on June 4 he damaged a Bf 109, on the 8th he destroyed one, on the 22nd two more, on the 24th another and on the 27th he damaged another. On July 2 1941 Lapkowski was leading 303, in Spitfire B 8596, flying with the Polish Wing, escorting Blenheims to Lille. They were attacked in mid-Channel by fifty Bf 109s coming down from a higher altitude. Lapkowski was shot down. His body was washed ashore and he is buried in Lombardsidje Communal Cemetery, Belgium. He was awarded a Bar to the KW (10.4.46) and two more Bars (31.10.47).

48822

PO

Air Gunner

British

600 Squadron

Called up on August 24 1939, he was commissioned on August 31 1940 and flew with 600 until January 1941, when he was posted to 200 Squadron, Coastal Command at Oban. In April 1942 Larbalestier went to the Coastal OTU at Cranwell, as an instructor. He was posted to Canada in May 1943, returned to the UK in June 1944 and joined 75 Squadron, operating in Lancasters from Mepal, Cambridgeshire, still as an air gunner. Larbalestier was released from the RAF on September 2 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1994. PO 31.8.40 FO 8.8.41 FL 8.8.42

JOSEPH EMILE PAUL LARICHELIERE PO

Pilot

Canadian

213 Squadron

JOHN HAMILTON LAUGHLIN 39995

In August 1939 Laricheliere joined the RAF on a short service commission and he began his ab initio course at 22 E&RFTS, Cambridge, as a pupil pilot. With training completed, he was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 18 1940 and after converting to Hurricanes, he then joined 213 Squadron, Biggin Hill on June 2. He claimed a Ju 88, a Bf 110 and a Bf 109 destroyed on August 13 and two Bf 110s and a Ju 87 on the 15th. He failed to return from a combat off Portland on August 16. He was 27. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 9.

Canadian

Pilot

British

235 Squadron

After completing the course, he went to RAF Gosport on March 26 1938, under instruction. Laughlin was posted to the FAA Pool at Gosport on October 10 1938. He joined 235 Squadron at Manston on January 22 1940. On August 13 he destroyed a He 115 over the North Sea. In September an aircraft, carrying a full load of bombs, crashed among other aircraft on dispersal at Bircham Newton and burst into flames. Laughlin, Pilot Officer J Coggins and another officer immediately ran to these aircraft, started the engines and taxied them away. During this time two of the bombs exploded. Three aircraft were taken to safety without damage and a fourth with only minor damage. Laughlin and Coggins both got the MBE (21.1.41). Laughlin was later in Bomber Command and he was awarded the DSO (23.3.45), as a Squadron Leader with 149 Squadron, operating in Lancasters from Methwold. He was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader.

JOHN BLANDFORD LATTA Pilot

FO

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 24 1937, as a pupil pilot. Laughlin was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney on August 21 for his intermediate and advanced training.

APO 23.10.39 PO 18.5.40

PO

264 Squadron

PO 1.5.42 FO 1.11.42 FL 1.5.44

Laricheliere was born in Montreal on December 3 1912. He was at the University of Montreal, graduating in 1933.

42008

British

He did a three year course and passed out as an LAC Fitter, Aero Engines in September 1934 and was posted to RAF Gosport, where he maintained aircraft used for training pilots for service on aircraft carriers. At the time of the Abyssinia scare in 1936, Lauder was posted to the Middle East, to the MU at Aboukir, but he returned to the UK in 1937 and went back to Gosport. He was later posted to RAF Henlow for a Fitter 1 Course and on passing out, he was promoted to Corporal and posted to 87 Squadron. Lauder was in ‘A’ Flight and on June 1 1938 the flight was re-numbered as 85 Squadron. Lauder applied for pilot training and on December 28 1938 he was remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot and posted to 4 E&RFTS, Brough, to begin his ab initio course. He moved on to 3 FTS, Grantham for No 26 Course, which ran from March 20 to October 21 1939. With the course completed, Sergeant-Pilot Lauder joined 264 Squadron, when it was reformed at Sutton Bridge on October 30. It was equipped with Defiants in December 1939. Over Dunkirk on May 29 1940, Lauder destroyed a Ju 87 and probably a second. He also took part in 264’s final bout of day-fighting in August. On the 28th he had his petrol tank holed by return fire during an attack on a He 111 over Folkestone. He and his gunner were unhurt and he was credited with damaging the German aircraft. Commissioned in May 1942, Lauder was posted to 54 OTU, Charter Hall on April 14 1943, as an instructor. He returned to 264 Squadron on November 12 1943 and stayed with it until the end of the war. Lauder later went as supernumerary Engineering Officer with a Spitfire squadron. He was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Flight Lieutenant. He became a partner in a motor engineering firm in Surrey.

Joined 600 Squadron, AAF in March 1935, as an Aircrafthand (800387) and trained as a Wireless Operator (Air). In August 1936 the squadron went to Fighter Command and Larbalestier remustered as an air gunner.

42849

Pilot

Born in March 1916, Lauder was educated at Portsmouth Junior Technical School. He joined the RAF in September 1931, as an Aircraft Apprentice at Halton (565601).

BASIL DOUGLAS LARBALESTIER 84706

Sgt

242 Squadron

Latta, of Victoria, British Columbia, was born in Vancouver on August 6 1914. He was educated at Oak Bay High School, Victoria and Victoria College. He worked as a salmon fisherman and at some time was in the 16th Canadian Scottish Territorial Regiment.

GEORGE LAURENCE Latta joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 6 1939. With training completed, he was posted to the newly-reformed 242 Squadron at Church Fenton on November 6 1939. On patrol between Dunkirk and Nieuport on May 29 1940 Latta destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 31st claimed the destruction of another. He flew with 242 to France, when the squadron was there between June 8 and 18, covering the Army’s rearguard action towards the Atlantic ports. On June 14 Latta destroyed two Bf 109s. On July 10 he claimed a probable He 111, on August 21 shared a Do 17, on September 9 and 15 destroyed Bf 109s and on the 27th shot down two more. He was awarded the DFC (8.11.40). Latta was reported ‘Missing’ after a patrol over the Dutch coast on January 12 1941, in Hurricane V 7203. He was 27 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 33.

47392

Sgt

Pilot

British

141 Squadron

Laurence joined the RAF in November 1934, as an Aircrafthand (518381). He later applied for pilot training and was selected. With training completed, he joined 141 Squadron at Turnhouse on October 7 1939, three days after its reformation. Flying with Sergeant W T Chard as his gunner, Laurence destroyed a Ju 88 during the night of September 17/18 1940. It crashed at St Andrews Close, Maidstone. They were then with a 141 detachment at Biggin Hill. On May 5/6 1941 Laurence destroyed a Ju 88 S of Greenock, with Sergeant A J B Hithersay as his gunner. Awarded the DFM (30.5.41), he was commissioned from Warrant Officer in December 1941 and remained with 141 until December 1942.

APO 29.4.39 PO 6.11.39

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Marshal on April 16 1975 and was made a CB in the same year. Lawrence then worked for Rolls-Royce.

In 1943 Laurence was serving with 219 Squadron in North Africa. He was again crewed with his gunner from 141 Squadron, now Warrant Officer Chard, radar operator. During the night of July 5/6 1943 they destroyed a Ju 88 over Bizerta, in Beaufighter V 8875. On January 7 1944 they took off from Bizerta airfield, on a test flight in a Beaufighter. Also on board was a trainee radar operator. Turning over the airfield boundary, the aircraft’s port wing tip clipped a car and the Beaufighter somersaulted and crashed. Chard and the trainee were thrown clear but Laurence was killed. He was then a Flight Lieutenant. He is buried in Massicault War Cemetery, Tunisia.

PO 5.8.41 FO 5.8.42 FL 5.8.43

KEITH ASHLEY LAWRENCE 42133

PO

Pilot

DEREK NAPIER LAWFORD Sgt

Pilot

British

He enrolled in the Civil Reserve of Pilots in February 1938 and in June he successfully applied for a short service commission in the RAF and left for England in the RMS Tainui on February 1 1939. He began his ab initio course at 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury on March 16, as a pupil pilot. He went on to 5 FTS, Sealand on May 28 for No 40 Course, which ran from March 30 to November 5 1939. With training completed, Lawrence joined the newlyreformed 234 Squadron at Leconfield on November 6. The squadron then had Blenheims but began to receive Spitfires in March 1940. On May 6 he was sent to the School of Air Navigation, St Athan for No 6 Short Navigation Instructors’ Course, which ran until June 28 1940. He qualified as an Air Navigator 2nd Class, in preparation to be Squadron Navigation Officer. He rejoined 234 on June 30. Lawrence shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 on July 8, the squadron’s first victory. On July 12 he damaged a Ju 88, on August 24 he damaged a Bf 110 and on September 7 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and damaged a Do 17. Two days later Lawrence was posted to 603 Squadron at Hornchurch and on the 15th, his first sortie with 603, he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and two others damaged. On October 8 1940 Lawrence was posted to 421 Flight, then forming at Hawkinge. On November 23 he damaged a Bf 110 and on a weather reconnaissance over Ramsgate on the 26th he was shot down by Bf 109s. The Spitfire disintegrated and Lawrence found himself falling. He got his parachute open, went into the sea and burst open a dye sachet, colouring the water. He was picked up by a minesweeper and taken to Ramsgate, where he was admitted to hospital, with his right arm dislocated and his right leg broken. After convalescence at Torquay, Lawrence rejoined 421 Flight on December 4 1941, by then renumbered 91 Squadron. He was sent to 52 OTU, Aston Down for a refresher course on Spitfires. He rejoined 91 on January 10 1942 but was soon afterwards posted to HQ RAF Mediterranean at Valetta, Malta. From there he joined 185 Squadron at Hal Far on February 17. On March 23 he shared a He 111, on April 9 damaged a Ju 88, on the 24th he damaged a Bf 109, on May 9 he got a probable Ju 87 and damaged a Bf 109, on the 10th got another probable Ju 87 and on the 19th he damaged a Mc 202. Lawrence was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader on May 28 1942 and took command of 185, leading it until he returned to the UK in early August. He was posted to 52 OTU, Aston Down but moved to 57 OTU, Hawarden on September 4. He was awarded the DFC (12.9.42). In early July 1943 Lawrence went to Duxford for liaison duties with the USAAF. On October 27 he was posted to CGS, Sutton Bridge, on the Pilot Gunnery Instructors’ Training Wing. In late May 1944 Lawrence went to 28 OTU, Wymeswold, where he flew Hurricanes by day and night against Wellingtons, training air gunners. He returned to operations on February 5 1945, when he joined 124 Squadron at Manston, flying Spitfire IXs. On July 15 1945 Lawrence transferred to the RNZAF. He returned to New Zealand in late May 1946 and went on to the Reserve in September. He later returned to Britain and settled there and ran a successful dry-cleaning business.

609 and 247 Squadrons

Lawford joined the RAFVR in July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754745) and began elementary flying training at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield. Called up at the outbreak of war, he was posted to 3 ITW, Hastings, moved to 6 EFTS, Sywell on November 27, to complete his ab initio flying and went to 8 FTS, Montrose on April 10 1940. With training completed, Lawford went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 3 and crashed in Spitfire N 3270 on the 7th, unhurt. About the 17th he joined 609 Squadron at Middle Wallop. However, he was sent to 7 OTU, Hawarden later in August, presumably for further training. He joined 247 Squadron at Roborough on September 6, to fly Gladiators in defence of Plymouth. Commissioned in October 1941, Lawford embarked on HMS Prince of Wales on October 24 and landed at Freetown, then went by troopship to Takoradi. He went up to the Middle East and spent brief periods with 250 Squadron at Port Said and 73 Squadron in the Western Desert before joining the Aircraft Delivery Unit at Cairo on May 14 1942. Lawford returned to the UK in June 1944, did a course at 3(P) AFU at South Cerney and then joined Transport Command. He served with 511, 233 and 575 Squadrons prior to his release from the RAF on October 4 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. He later went to live in the USA, where he worked in the real estate business. Lawford moved to Canada in 1985. PO 23.10.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 23.10.43

EDGAR STANLEY LAWLER 182840

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

604 Squadron

Lawler joined 600 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand (800602). Called up on August 24 1939, he remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. He was serving with 604 Squadron at Manston by June 1940 and was still with the squadron in November 1940. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in July 1944, Lawler was released from the RAF in late 1945, as a Flying Officer. He died in 1984. PO 27.7.44 FO 27.1.45

JOHN THORNETT LAWRENCE 104428

Sgt

Pilot

British

234, 603 Sqdns, 421 Flt

Born in Waitara on November 25 1919. Lawrence was at Southland Boys’ High School from 1933 to 1936 and then went to work as a bank clerk in Invercargill.

FO 1.12.41 FL 1.12.42

113266

New Zealander

235 Squadron

Lawrence was born on April 16 1920 and attended The Crypt School, Gloucester. He joined the RAFVR about October 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742209). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and joined 235 Squadron on October 5 1940. On November 23 he was wounded during an attack on two flak ships off the coast of Denmark.

APO 13.5.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41

Lawrence was commissioned in August 1941 and served as a staff pilot at No 3 S of GR. In 1942 he went to 202 Squadron at Gibraltar operating Sunderlands and Catalinas. The following year he was posted to 111 OUT, Nassau, Bahamas, equipped with Liberators. In 1945 he returned to the UK and was posted to 86 Squadron at Tain, which also flew Liberators. Lawrence was awarded the AFC (14.6.45). He also received two Belgian awards, the Chevalier of the Order of Leopold and the Croix de Guerre. He was released from the RAF in July1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. In April 1947 Lawrence rejoined with a permanent commission. He was personal assistant to the AOC in C, Germany from 1947 to 1948 and was on the staff at the RAF Flying College, Manby for the following three years. He then took command of 14 Squadron at Fassberg, Germany, equipped with Venoms. In 1955 he became personal air secretary to the Secretary of State for Air and, in 1956, he was a staff officer at 6 ATAF, Izmir, Turkey. From 1958 to 1961 Lawrence commanded the Radar Research Flying Unit. After a spell as Group Captain Ops at Air Forces Middle East, Aden Lawrence became AOC, 3 Group, Bpmber Command in 1967, the year in which he was made CBE. He attended the Imperial Defence College and went to be Director of Admin Plans, Director General Personnel Management and Air Officer for Scotland and Northern Ireland. He retired as an Air Vice-

NORMAN ANTHONY LAWRENCE 88855

Sgt

Pilot

British

54 Squadron

Lawrence joined the RAFVR about June 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740359). Called up on September 1 1939, he was with 54 Squadron by June 30 1940. Lawrence claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on July 9 and three Ju 87s on August 15. After the destruction of the dive bombers, Lawrence was shot down by a Bf 109 and crashed into the sea off Dover, in Spitfire N 3097. He was rescued by the Navy and admitted to Dover Hospital. He was suffering from shock and was non-effective sick from August 15 to September 20 1940, and he rejoined 54 on the 21st, making his first flight on that day. He was still with 54, when he was commissioned in December 1940. On June 26 1943 Lawrence made an unauthorised flight in Martinet HN 956 of 289 Squadron. The aircraft flew into the ground, two miles W of

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WALTER JOHN LAWSON

Turnhouse. Lawrence was injured. He was dismissed the service by Court Martial, this being gazetted on July 20. He died on August 22 1958.

43419

PO

Pilot

British

PO 4.12.40 FO 4.12.41

Lawson was born in Somerset in January 1913 and educated at Hastings Grammar School. He joined the RAF in January 1929, as an Aircraft Apprentice (563331) and passed out in December 1931, as a Fitter.

ADRIAN FRANCIS LAWS 45092

PO

Pilot

British

19 Squadron

64 Squadron On March 9 1936 Lawson remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot. He did his elementary flying training at 10 EFTS, Yatesbury and then his intermediate and advanced training at 10 FTS, Ternhill, on No 2 Course. In October 1939 Lawson was with 46 Squadron at Kenley. He flew his first operational sortie on October 17. Commissioned on April 1 1940, Lawson joined 19 Squadron at Duxford on the 15th. On September 5 Lawson was appointed a Flight Commander, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. On this day he got a probable Do 17 and damaged a Bf 109. On September 9 he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed, on the 11th a He 111, on the 15th he probably destroyed a Do 17, on the 18th shared a Ju 88, on the 27th destroyed a Bf 109 and on November 5 he destroyed two Bf 109s. Lawson was awarded the DFC (26.11.40). On June 20 1941 Lawson was appointed CO of 19 Squadron, when Squadron Leader B J E Lane was posted away. On the 27th he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and another probably destroyed. On August 28 1941 the squadron was escorting Blenheims on a low-level attack on shipping in Rotterdam harbour. Lawson was shot down and killed by ground fire. He was 28 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 28.

Laws was born in East Dereham, Norfolk on August 10 1912. He worked at International Stores in the City of London before joining the RAF on March 30 1931, as an Aircrafthand (514143). He trained as a Storekeeper. In November 1932 Laws was posted to the Middle East. He later applied for pilot training, was selected and began flying at 4 FTS, Abu Sueir in July 1935. With the course completed, Laws joined 64 Squadron at Ismailia on April 20 1936, as a Sergeant-Pilot/Storekeeper. The squadron returned to the UK in September 1936 and on completion of his training on Demons, in April 1937, Laws became a Pilot/Equipment Assistant, still with 64 Squadron. He was still serving with it at the outbreak of war, at Church Fenton. On June 12 1940 Laws shared in the destruction of a He 111 over the Thames Estuary. He was promoted to Flight Sergeant on July 1 and on July 29 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed, on August 11 he damaged a Bf 109, on the 13th damaged a Do 17, on the 15th claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and on the 18th destroyed a Bf 110 and shared a He 111. He was awarded the DFM (17.9.40). Commissioned on September 28, Laws was killed on the 30th, when he was in collision with another Spitfire during a routine patrol. The tail unit of his Spitfire, P 9564, was sheared off and he spiralled to the ground. Laws was 28. He is buried in Wells-next-the Sea Cemetery, Norfolk.

PO 1.4.40 FO 6.12.40

JOHN LAWSON-BROWN PO 28.9.40

82692

PO

Pilot

British

Lawson-Brown, of Leeds, was born in May 1912, the son of Frederick and Hannah Lawson-Brown. His father was a paint and varnish manufacturer.

GEORGE GODFREY STONE LAWS 745649

Sgt Pilot

British

151 and 501 Squadrons

Laws, of Ruthin, Denbighshire, joined the RAFVR about April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 1 1940.

He joined the RAFVR about December 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741133). Called up on September 1 1939, he did his elementary flying at 5 EFTS, Meir and went on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 19 Course, which ran from April 11 to July 24 1940. On the 27th Lawson-Brown went to No 1 School of Army Co operation for a course. However, with others, he was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 22, where he converted to Spitfires before joining 64 Squadron at Leconfield on September 14 1940. He flew his first operational sortie on September 17 and on December 21 1940 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17. Lawson-Brown died on May 12 1941 while being operated on for appendicitis, still with 64, aged 28. He was cremated at Lawnswood Crematorium, Leeds, Yorkshire. He was the subject of a portrait by Cuthbert Orde.

After converting to Hurricanes, Laws joined 151 Squadron at Digby on September 28. He moved to 605 Squadron at Croydon on October 19 and then went to 501 Squadron at Kenley next day. On March 28 1941 Laws was killed, in Hurricane V 6841. The aircraft stalled, making a landing approach, and spun into the ground at Stoke Gifford. He was 21 and is buried in St Meugan’s churchyard, Llanrhydd, Llanbedr.

RICHARD CHESTER LAWSON 43006

PO

Pilot British

64 Squadron

PO 27.7.40

601 Squadron

PHILIP CHARLES FENNER LAWTON

Lawson’s father (later Rear Admiral R N Lawson CB) had commanded HMS Chester at the Battle of Jutland. Captain Lawson’s report on the Battle led to one of his crew, sixteen-year-old Boy First Class John Travers Cornwell, being awarded a posthumous VC. R C Lawson was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Supplementary Reserve of Officers of the Royal Tank Corps on May 25 1938. He was seconded to the RAF and granted a temporary commission as a Pilot Officer on March 7 1940.

90217

FL

Pilot

British

604 Squadron Born in Highgate, North London on September 18 1912, Lawton went to Westminster School. He gained an LL.B Honours degree in 1933 and worked from 1934 as a solicitor.

He joined 604 Squadron, AAF in 1936. He went on to the AAFRO on November 19 1938. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939. Lawton was detached to 11 Group Pool on September 4. He was sent to 12 Group Pool for training on September 15 and then rejoined 604 at North Weald on November 23 1939. Lawton was immediately detached to the Blenheim Conversion Flight at Hendon for night-flying training. He rejoined 604 on January 17 1940. He was posted from 604 in March, details unknown, but rejoined the squadron in June and served with it throughout the Battle of Britain. Lawton was again detached from 604 on December 8 1940, this time to No 1 Blind Approach School at Watchfield for No 7 Course, which ended on the 20th. He rejoined 604 two days later. He received a Mention in Despatches in March 1941. On April 4 the weather clamped

He was on No 19 Course at 8 FTS, Montrose from May 6 to August 12 1940. With the course completed, he went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum for No 14 Course. It was intended that Army officers seconded to the RAF would be trained for army co-operation duties. However eight of the officers on No 14 Course were posted to Fighter OTUs before the course ended, Lawson among them. He probably went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 22. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 601 Squadron at Exeter on September 9, making his first flight on the 12th, circuits and landings. Lawson was killed on February 10 1941, still with 601, aged 21. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 33. PO 7.3.40

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Lazoryk was awarded the VM (5th Class) (20.2.43). He was attached to HQ 9th Troop Carrier Command, USAF on July 22 1945, as Polish Liaison Officer. He went on a course to PAF Staff College in January 1945 and was instructing at the College from February 1946. Lazoryk was released from the PAF in May 1946, as a Squadron Leader. He died in Pennsylvania,USA on January 8 1995.

down whilst he was on a night patrol. After damaging a Ju 88, he lost his bearings in fog. He and his radar operator baled out of Beaufighter R 2259 over Hungerford and landed safely. During the nights of April 10/11 and April 13/14 Lawton destroyed two Ju 88s. On September 25 1941 he was posted away from 604 to HQ 10 Group. He was awarded the DFC (11.11.41). In 1942 Lawton was a staff officer at HQ Fighter Command. He served again briefly with 604 Squadron in July 1942 before going on to command airfields at Predannack, Portreath and Cranfield. After being on Special Duties for the Inspector General of the RAF, Lawton was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Group Captain. He became an executive with British European Airways in 1946, rising to Chairman in 1972-73. He was created a CBE in 1967. Lawton died on December 8 1993.

FO 1.3.41

DAVID COOPER LEARY 42756

PO

Pilot

British

Leary was born in London in May 1921 and was educated at Alleyns School. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 8 1939, as a pupil pilot. Afterwards he was posted to 11 FTS, Shawbury for No 16 Course, which ran from October 23 1939 to May 11 1940.

PO (AAF) 4.7.36 FO (AAF) 4.3.38 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41 WC 6.9.44

HERBERT KEITH LAYCOCK 40925

FO

Pilot

British

79 and 87 Squadrons At the end of the course Leary was posted direct to 504 Squadron on May 12. However, 504 had moved to France and the posting was cancelled. Instead he went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 18. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 17 Squadron at Hawkinge on May 25. He went to France with it on June 8, operating from Dinard and Le Mans. On June 12 Leary claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and on the 13th another one damaged. The squadron was withdrawn on the 17th, reaching Tangmere on the 19th, via the Channel Islands. Leary destroyed a Bf 109 on August 25, probably destroyed a Bf 110, shared another and a Do 17 on September 3, destroyed a Bf 110 and probably another on the 27th, got a probable Do 17 on October 28, destroyed two Ju 87s and shared two on November 8 and damaged a Do 17 on the 13th. Leary was awarded the DFC (26.11.40). He was killed on December 28 1940, when he crashed near Debden in fog and low cloud, in Hurricane V 6791. He was 19 and he is buried in Ipswich Cemetery, Suffolk.

Laycock, of Walton-on-Thames, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 16 1938. With training completed, he arrived on 616 Squadron at Doncaster from RAF Halton on September 20 1939. Over Dunkirk on June 1 1940 Laycock damaged a He 111. He joined 79 Squadron at Acklington in early July and on September 6 he probably destroyed a Bf 109. He moved to 87 Squadron at Exeter on October 8 1940. Next day Laycock’s flight moved to Bibury, from where he began flying night patrols from the 11th. At the end of June 1942 603 Squadron had been in Malta for four months. The remaining pilots and aircraft were absorbed into 229 Squadron on August 3. The ground echelon of 603 went to Nicosia, as a servicing unit. The intention was to re-equip 603 with Beaufighters, to carry out antishipping operations. Crews, trained on Beaufighters at English OTUs, were embarked on the MV Highland Brigade,which sailed from Avonmouth on December 17 1942. They were bound for Edku in Egypt, to reform 603. Laycock was in charge of the draft and the crews expected him to be their new 603 CO but on arrival he was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander and on January 28 1943 Wing Commander H Chater took command. The ground crews arrived from Nicosia, joined the newly-arrived aircrews and the squadron moved to its new base at Misurata in Libya on Apri 1 1943, ready for operations. On August 19 1943 Laycock led an attack on shipping at Missolonghi, Greece, with cannon, machine guns and 250 lb bombs. His Beaufighter’s starboard engine caught fire and he made a good belly-landing beside a road. He and his radar operator, Sergeant R C Scott, were captured, both badly burned. They were both reported to have died on the same day, August 26 1943. Laycock, then a Squadron Leader aged 24, and Scott are buried in Phaleron War Cemetery, Athens.

APO 9.10.39 PO 11.5.40

JAMES ANTHONY LEATHART 39625

Pilot

Polish

Pilot

British

54 Squadron

Leathart transferred to the RAF on May 10 1937 with a short service commission and was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham, later moving with it to South Cerney. On November 27 1937 Leathart joined 54 Squadron, then at Hornchurch. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on September 1 1939, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. Over Dunkirk on May 21, Leathart probably destroyed a Ju 88 and a He 111. The next day he flew a Master to Calais-Marck aerodrome to pick up the CO of 74 Squadron, Squadron Leader F L White, who had been shot down and could not get back. With cover provided by two Spitfires of 54 Squadron, piloted by Pilot Officer J L Allen and Flying Officer A C Deere, the very hazardous operation was carried out successfully. On May 24 Leathart claimed a Bf 109, on the 25th a probable Bf 110 and on the 26th two Bf 110s and a Ju 88. On this day he took command of 54 Squadron, as an Acting Squadron Leader. On the 27th he shared a Ju 88, was awarded the DSO (11.6.40) and on June 17 probably destroyed a Ju 88 and shared another. On July 20 Leathart damaged a Do 17, on the 25th damaged a Bf 109, on August 18 got a probable Bf 109 and damaged another, on the 28th destroyed a Do 17, on September 2 destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another on the 3rd. Leathart was due to take up a staff appointment on September 1 and relinquish command of 54 Squadron. However, Squadron Leader D O Finlay, who had been a supernumerary with the squadron, was wounded in action with 54 and unable to assume command. Leathart handed over to him on September 18 and was posted to Air Ministry, to the Deputy Directorate of Air Tactics. Leathart went to HQ Fighter Command on March 3 1941, as Ops 2 Night Fighters. He was loaned to the RCAF on May 10 1941, to form and command 406 (RCAF) Squadron at Acklington and he did so until the CO post was upgraded to Wing Commander. On November 8 1941 Leathart went to HQ RAF Middle East, as Wing Commander Air

WLODZIMIERZ LAZORYK FO

FL

Born in London on January 5 1915, Leathart was educated at St Edward’s, Oxford and graduated from Liverpool University, as an electrical engineer. Whilst there, he joined 610 Squadron, AAF on May 2 1936, as one of its foundermembers. He qualified to a wings and operational standard on Harts.

APO 9.7.38 PO 16.5.39 FO 3.9.40

P 1000

17 Squadron

615 and 607 Squadrons

Born on August 27 1904, Lazoryk was in the PAF before the war. In September 1939 he was CO of 152 Fighter Eskadra. After Poland fell, he escaped to France and after the French collapse, he made his way to England, arriving there on June 23 1940. Lazoryk went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of T T, Blackpool, to await a posting. He was on the 6th Polish Pilots’ Course at No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum from September 5 to 14, for testing and grading. He went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 18, converted to Hurricanes and joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick on October 4. Lazoryk moved to 607 Squadron at Tangmere on October 9 1940. He joined 46 Squadron at North Weald on December 2 1940 and then 257 Squadron at Coltishall on the 23rd. He was posted to 308 Squadron at Baginton on February 15 1941 and served with it until November 30 1941, when he went to 3 FTS, South Cerney for a conversion course. Lazoryk went to 18 OTU, Bramcote on January 9 1942 and then joined 301 Squadron, operating in Wellingtons from Hemswell, on June 15 1942. He was awarded the KW and Bar (20.8.42) and a second Bar (15.11.42). On February 18 1943 Lazoryk was posted to 305 Squadron, also operating in Wellingtons from Hemswell.

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

down by a Bf 109, baled out and landed on the Goodwin Sands. He stood for some time awaiting rescue by ASR. A launch passed close by but it was not until Le Cheminant was immersed up to his chest in rising sea water that the launch returned, full of RAF and Luftwaffe pilots, and picked him up. Tour-expired, Le Cheminant was posted to 53 OTU, Llandow in September 1941, as an instructor. Commissioned in May 1942, Le Cheminant joined 72 Squadron at Biggin Hill in early August and went with it to North Africa in November. On December 2 he was shot down by Oberleutnant Bühlingen of II/JG 2, in a FW 190. Le Cheminant crash-landed at Tebourba and was picked up by French troops, who returned him to his squadron. On the 4th he shot down a Bf 109, on January 6 1943 and March 1 he damaged Bf 109s, on March 2 he chased one to ground level, causing it to crash into a hill, and on April 24 he destroyed another. Le Cheminant was posted to 232 Squadron at Souk-el-Khemis on April 26 and was awarded the DFC (21.5.43). Back in the UK later in the year, Le Cheminant was attached to the US 8th Air Force in East Anglia, to teach German fighter tactics. Staying on in the RAF after the war, Le Cheminant went to Mitchell Field, Long Island in 1947, on exchange duties. He was made an OBE (13.6.70) and retired on November 1 1972, as a Wing Commander. Le Cheminant died in 1996.

Tactics. He was given command of 89 Squadron on October 16 1942. He destroyed a Cant Z 1007 on February 23 1943. Leathart returned to the UK on July 5 and was posted to HQ 84 Group to prepare for the invasion of Europe. He was appointed personal Staff Officer and pilot to Air Chief Marshal T Leigh-Mallory, C-in-C Allied European Air Force. On May 30 1944 Leathart volunteered to take in light Warning Radar equipment in a Jeep, to control night fighters on D Day and was landed on J Beach in France at H hour + 5. Leathart was posted from 85 Group to command 148 Wing, Mosquito night fighters, on March 7 1945. He went on to the Directing Staff at RAF Staff College on July 10 1945. In the post-war RAF Leathart held a series of appointments and commands. He was made a CB (11.6.60) and retired, at his own request, on July 24 1962, as an Air Commodore. He died on November 17 1998. APO 10.5.37 PO 1.1.38 FO 1.9.39 FL 24.8.40 SL 1.12.41 WC 1.7.44 WC 1.7.47 GC 1.7.55 AC 1.7.60

ERNEST GEORGE CUTHBERT LEATHEM 78087

PO

Observer

British

248 Squadron

Leathem joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (744922). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 4 B&GS, West Freugh on No 4 Air Observer Course, which ran from January 1 to March 10 1940.

PO 9.5.42 FO 9.11.42 FL 9.5.44 FL 9.11.45 SL 1.7.63 WC 1.1.70

He was commissioned and joined 248 Squadron at North Coates from 4 B&GS on March 18. Leathem was posted to No 1(C) OTU, Silloth on May 31, for further training. He rejoined 248, then at Dyce, on June 25 and served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. Leathem was awarded the DFC (25.5.43), as a Flight Lieutenant with 544 Squadron, for photographic-reconnaissance work in Mosquitos. He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant, but rejoined later, serving for several years in the Secretarial Branch.

PHILLIP HOWARD LECKRONE 84653

PO

Pilot

American

616 Squadron

Leckrone came from Salem, Illinois. He learned to fly while still at High School. He was flying for several years before the war and owned his own aeroplane but when he came to England, as an American volunteer, he had no military flying experience.

PO 10.3.40 FO 10.3.41 FL 10.3.42 FL 1.9.45

WILLIAM JOHNSON LEATHER 90355

FL

Pilot

British

611 Squadron

Presumably he had some RAF flying training before he was commissioned in the RAFVR on August 2 1940. On this day he arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden, where he converted to Spitfires. Leckrone joined 616 Squadron at Kenley on September 2 and was posted to 71 Squadron at Church Fenton on October 12 1940, to join other American volunteers in the first Eagle Squadron. On October 28 Leckrone overturned a Brewster Buffalo, when landing at Church Fenton. He was admitted to hospital with slight concussion. On January 5 1941 Leckrone was killed during a formation practice, when he collided with Pilot Officer E E Orbison. He was 71 Squadron’s first fatality. Leckrone is buried in Kirton-in-Lindsey Burial Ground. Salem-Leckrone Airport, serving his home city, is named in his honour.

Leather was born on January 22 1913 in Liverpool. He was educated at Sedbergh School and Clare College, Cambridge, where he read Mathematics and gained a Rugby Union Blue in 1934. He joined 611 Squadron, AAF in May 1936, one of the first two volunteers for pilot training. He was called to full-time service with the squadron on August 26 1939. He was given temporary command of ‘A’ Flight of 611 on February 29 1940 and he was confirmed as a Flight Commander on March 19. Leather claimed a Bf 109 destroyed over Dunkirk on June 2 1940, shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on July 2, claimed two Do 17s destroyed on September 15 and shared in destroying two Do 17s on October 11. Leather was awarded the DFC (8.10.40). He shared in the destruction of Ju 88s on November 13 and December 7. In January 1941 Leather was given command of 145 Squadron at Tangmere, which he led until April 1941, when he was posted to HQ 11 Group. He was on staff duties at Air HQ Far East and Air HQ India in 1942/43. After returning to the UK, Leather had staff jobs at HQ Fighter Command and HQ 12 Group. He received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.45). He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Group Captain. When 611 Squadron, AAF was reformed on May 10 1946, Leather was given command and held the appointment until 1949. He died in 1965. PO (AAF) 14.5.36 FO (AAF) 1.1.38 SL (AAFRO) 1.8.46

FO 26.8.39

FL 1.1.40

SL 1.3.41

PO 2.8.40

JOHN GAGE LECKY 33570

Sgt

Pilot

British

Pilot

British

610 and 41 Squadrons

Lecky was born in Yokohama, Japan. His father was Language Officer at the British Embassy. He was educated at Highfield Preparatory School, Liphook and Wrekin College, Shropshire. Lecky entered RAF College, Cranwell in April 1939, as a Flight Cadet. After the outbreak of war, Cranwell cadets, who had not completed their courses, were enlisted in the regular RAF on September 7 1939 as Airmen u/t Pilots and each one was given an Airman number. Lecky (581726) graduated on March 3 1940 and was granted a Permanent Commission. His first posting was to No 2 School of Army Co-operation at Andover. From there he joined 613 Squadron at Odiham on May 7 1940. Lecky volunteered for Fighter Command and on August 22 he was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden. He converted to Spitfires and joined 610 Squadron at Biggin Hill on September 3. Lecky moved to 41 Squadron at Hornchurch on October 2 1940. On the 5th he damaged a Bf 109 and on the 6th he destroyed a Do 17. He was shot down in combat with Bf 109s on the 11th and he baled out but was killed. His Spitfire, P 9447, crashed at Preston Hall, Maidstone. Lecky was 19. He is buried in All Saints’ churchyard, Tilford, Surrey.

WC 1.6.42

JERROLD Le CHEMINANT 126148

PO

616 Squadron

Le Cheminant was born on April 24 1918 in the Channel Islands. He joined the RAFVR about January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742864). Called up on September 1, he completed his training, went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 29 1940, converted to Spitfires and then joined 616 Squadron at Kirton-inLindsey on October 14 1940. Le Cheminant was posted to RAF Biggin Hill on November 28 and in December he had joined 92 Squadron. He claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed on June 23 1941 and destroyed others on July 2 and August 9. During his time in 92 Le Cheminant was shot

PO 7.3.40

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EDGAR FRANCIS Le CONTE 149330

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

attacking He 111s, his aircraft was probably hit by return fire and exploded. He took to his parachute and landed at Le Mans. The squadron was withdrawn from France on June 18 1940 and it re-assembled at Croydon on the 21st. In the scramble to be evacuated, Lee’s right hand was injured and he did not fly again until July 1. Lee probably destroyed a Bf 109 on July 27 and damaged a Ju 87 on July 29. He acted as temporary ‘B’ Flight Commander from July 30 to August 6. He claimed a Ju 87 destroyed on August 12. Lee was shot down on the 18th by Oberleutnant Schöpfel of JG 26 over Canterbury, in Hurricane P 3059. Lee baled out, with a bullet wound in the leg, and landed in a cornfield near Whitstable He was taken to the local golf club to wait for an ambulance. He rejoined the squadron on September 27 and made his first flight next day, a patrol. Lee was awarded the DFC (22.10.40). On November 28 1940 Lee was posted to the Special Duties Flight, Rolls Royce Ltd, at Stormy Down and later went to 52 OTU at Crosby-on-Eden, as a Flight Commander. In December 1941 Lee went to the Middle East and served with 112 Squadron in the Western Desert, as a Flight Commander. He moved to 260 Squadron on September 18 1942 and destroyed a Mc 202 on November 10. He took command of 123 Squadron at Abadan, Persia in March 1943. The squadron went to the Western Desert in May and on July 27 1943 Lee was shot down and captured during a dawn raid on Crete. He was held in Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan and Belaria (PoW No 1861). Freed in May 1945, Lee was released from the RAF later in the year, as a Squadron Leader. He took a job with the United Africa Company in Tanganyika, in a managerial position. He later went to Dublin and there he established a wholesale plumbing business, which flourished. Lee returned to England and went to live in Sheffield, near to one of his two daughters. He died on January 15 2008.

FIU

Le Conte was born on March 8 1920. He joined the RAFVR in November 1939 for the duration, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner (940406). With training completed, he was one of the original aircrew members who joined the Fighter Interception Unit at Tangmere at its formation in April 1940. On October 7 1940 Le Conte was in a Blenheim, with Pilot Officer D L Ryalls as pilot and Pilot Officer J W White operating the AI apparatus. They were attacked by three Bf 110s and Le Conte fought them off. On July 7 1941 he was again in a Blenheim, with Wing Commander D R Evans as pilot and Sergeant F H Mitchell as radar operator. On this occasion Le Conte shot down a He 111. He later retrained as a radar operator and was operating in this category by early January 1942. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in June 1943, Le Conte was then with 604 Squadron at Scorton. He assisted in damaging a Do 17 over the Humber on July 17. At the end of 1943 Le Conte was with 108 Squadron at Luqa, Malta. From then until July 1944 he flew many sorties with the CO, Wing Commander A J Banham. Le Conte stayed on in the RAF, was made an OBE (1.1.72) and retired on March 8 1975, as a Wing Commander. He died on May 4 1981 and is buried at Aldborough Cemetery, at Boroughbridge, Yorkshire. PO 24.6.43 FO 24.12.43 FL 24.6.45 FL 21.2.49 SL 1.7.54 WC 1.1.67

PO (RAFVR) 29.3.39 PO 1.9.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

LESLEY LEDGER 56339

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

236 Squadron

MAURICE ALEXANDER WILLIAM LEE 742796

Ledger joined the RAF as an Aircrafthand (614072) in June 1938. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and after completing his training he joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island on July 19 1940 and served with it in the Battle of Britain.

TERRY Le DONG Radar Operator

British

219 Squadron

Le Dong, of Swansea, joined the RAF in June 1938, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Aircrew and after completing a short radar course, he joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on September 1 1940. He flew only one operational sortie during the Battle of Britain period. This was on September 2, with Sergeant F G Nightingale as pilot and Sergeant G W Benn as gunner. His next sortie was in January 1941 and he then had the rank of Sergeant. On February 8 1941, on a training flight in Beaufighter R 2074, the aircraft crashed at Gumber Farm, Slindon, cause unknown. Ten minutes before the crash the crew reported the aircraft full of smoke. The pilot, Pilot Officer G M Head, Sergeant R F Willis, radar operator and Le Dong were all killed Le Dong is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Tangmere.

KENNETH NORMAN THOMSON LEE 72998

FO

Pilot

British

British

64 and 72 Squadrons, 421 Flight

With training completed, Lee arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 3. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield on August 19 and flew operational sorties with it on September 8 and 9. Soon afterwards Lee moved to 72 Squadron at Croydon. The squadron went to Biggin Hill on the 14th and Lee flew his first operational sortie on September 15. He claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed on the 20th, damaged another on the 24th and destroyed a He 111 on the 27th. Lee was posted to 421 Flight on October 3, then forming at Hawkinge. On the 12th he destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 15th he destroyed another Bf 109 and damaged a second. In this engagement Lee’s Spitfire, P 7444, was damaged by Bf 109s and he was wounded. He crashed, attempting a forced-landing at Blackham Farm, Broadoak and was admitted to hospital. He rejoined 421 Flight on December 1 1940, after a Medical Board. On December 12 Lee damaged a Do 17 and was again damaged in combat himself and he made a forced-landing. Later the same day the weather deteriorated and he could not return to Hawkinge and he wrecked his Spitfire, trying to make an emergency landing at Lingfield. Lee was sent out in thick morning mist on the 22nd looking for some Wellingtons that were lost. He found two and escorted them in over the Sussex coast. One crashed, killing the crew, the other made a forced-landing. Lee’s own fuel was by then exhausted and he had to glide down through dense cloud to make a belly-landing behind the Downs. On December 31 1940 Lee was killed, when he crashed near Biggin Hill, attempting to land in bad weather and burned out. He was 21 and is buried in St Mary Cray Cemetery, Orpington, Kent.

PO 8.11.44 FO 8.5.45

AC

Pilot

Lee, of Ridgeway, Somerset, joined the RAFVR about January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he carried out his elementary flying training at 7 EFTS, Desford and went on to10 FTS, Ternhill for No 19 Course, which ran from April 11 to July 24 1940.

Ledger was awarded the DFM (12.1.43), as a Flight Sergeant with 35 Squadron, operating in Halifaxes from Graveley, Huntingdonshire. Commissioned in November 1944, Ledger was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flying Officer.

613302

Sgt

501 Squadron

Born in Birmingham, on June 23 1915, Lee was educated at the King Edward VI High School. He joined the RAFVR on January 25 1937. His number, 740004, was the fifth to be issued. He went to 11 E&RFTS, Perth for a two months ab initio course, after which he returned to his job, flying at weekends at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty.

RICHARD HUGH ANTONY LEE 33208

FO

Pilot

British

85 Squadron

Lee was born at the Curzon Hotel, Mayfair, London on May 12 1917, the son of Lieutenant-Colonel H F Lee, who had joined the RFC on March 1 1914, at the invitation of Lieutenant-Colonel Hugh Trenchard, to assist in the build-up of the Corps. Lee became Trenchard’s adjutant, received a Mention in Despatches and was awarded the AFC and the US Aero Club Medal before retiring in March 1919.

In January 1939 Lee was released by his employer to spend six months with the regular RAF. He joined 111 Squadron at Northolt and in late March he was commissioned and he went to 43 Squadron at Tangmere on June 5 1939. Lee returned to his job in late July and after being called up on September 1 he joined 501 Squadron at Filton on the 5th. The squadron flew to France on May 10 1940 and on this day Lee claimed a Bf 110 destroyed. On the 12th he destroyed a Do 17 and on the 13th a Bf 110. Lee claimed a He 111 destroyed on May 27 and a Do 17 on June 6. Four days later,

His son, Trenchard’s godson, was educated at Charterhouse School. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1935, as a Flight Cadet, and graduated on July 30 1937, with a Permanent Commission. Initially with 87 Squadron, Lee joined 85 Squadron on June 1 1938, then re-forming at Debden. He went to France with the squadron at the outbreak of war and was ‘B’ Flight Commander by November 1939, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant.

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In March 1943 Lees was SASO at HQ 242 Group and on May 26 he went to HQ Mediterranean Allied Tactical Air Force. He was made a CBE (2.6.43), CB (1.1.46) and Commander Legion of Merit (US). Lees was ADC to the King from 1949 to 1952 and then the Queen in 1952/53. He was knighted in 1961, KCB (10.6.61), retired from the RAF on February 3 1966, as an Air Marshal, and returned to Australia. He died in May 1991.

Lee destroyed a He 111 over Boulogne on November 21 1939, 85’s first victory. He was awarded the DFC (8.3.40). On May 10 1940 he claimed a Hs 126 destroyed and shared two probable Ju 88s. On the 11th, after shooting down a Do 17 and sharing another, he was himself shot down by flak and captured. Lee escaped and made his way back to his squadron. In the four days, May 13 to 16, Lee claimed to have destroyed six He 111s. Lee was flown from France to Hendon on May 17 for some leave, but he joined 56 Squadron at North Weald from Hendon on the 19th. Flying with 56 over Dunkirk on the 27th, Lee was shot down into the sea and was picked up after an hour in the water. He was awarded the DSO (31.5.40). He was posted from 56 Squadron to RAF Debden on June 26, for Ops Room duties, as an Acting Squadron Leader. Lee rejoined 85 Squadron, also at Debden, on the 29th, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. He re-assumed command of ‘B’ Flight on July 9 1940. Lee was last seen in pursuit of an enemy formation thirty miles off the East coast on August 18. He was not heard of again and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 6. He was 23. He is believed to have destroyed at least nine enemy aircraft and shared in the destruction of three more.

PO 18.3.31 FO 13.10.31 FL 13.10.35 SL 1.10.38 WC 1.12.40 GC 1.7.43 GC 1.7.47 AC 1.1.53 AVM 1.7.55 AM 1.1.61

PETER WILLIAM LEFEVRE 40719

FO

Pilot

He did his elementary flying training at 4 E&RFTS, Brough. On May 21 he was posted to 6 FTS, Netheravon, finished the course at Little Rissington and joined 46 Squadron at Digby in December 1938. Lefevre shared in the destruction of a He 115 floatplane on October 21 1939. On May 9 1940 the squadron flew to Abbotsinch and later embarked on the carrier HMS Glorious for Norway. Lefevre took off with the CO on May 26, to make the first landing. On

ALAN FARQUHAR YOUNG LEES PO

Pilot

British

236 Squadron

Joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745711) and did his weekend flying at 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick. Lees was called up on September 1 1939 and in November he went to ITW at Hastings. In January 1940 he was posted to 3 EFTS, Hamble, afterwards moving on to 14 FTS, Kinloss and later Cranfield for No 6 Course, which ran from March 25 to July 11 1940.

June 7 he shared a He 111. When the squadron left Norway by flying its Hurricanes back on to the deck of the Glorious, Lefevre remained behind, to destroy vital stores and equipment, and he was evacuated by sea by the Royal Navy on June 8. As a consequence of the loss of pilots when the Glorious was sunk, he was one of the very few remaining from 46 Squadron to be at Digby when it reformed there on June 15 1940. On September 3 Lefevre claimed a Ju 88 destroyed but it was a Blenheim of 25 Squadron, shot down in error. He returned to Stapleford badly damaged by a Bf 109. He damaged a Do 17 on the 8th and was shot down in combat over Chatham on the 18th and baled out with minor injuries. His Hurricane, V 6554, is believed to have crashed at Chestnut Avenue, Walderslade. Lefevre shared a Do 17 on November 3. By December 13 1940 Lefevre was ‘A’ Flight Commander, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. On May 22 1941, 46 Squadron sailed in the carrier HMS Argus for the Middle East. It transferred its Hurricanes and pilots on to HMS Ark Royal at Gibraltar on May 29 and on June 6 they flew off to Malta. On June 12 he destroyed a Mc 200 and damaged another. The 46 pilots were retained in Malta and became members of 126 Squadron, reformed at Ta Kali on June 28 1941. Lefevre continued in his post of Flight Commander. On July 27 he attacked and damaged an Italian MTB and on August 19 and September 4 he destroyed Mc 200s. Lefevre took command of 126 Squadron on October 8 1941 he was awarded the DFC (12.12.41) and was posted back to the UK in late December 1941. He was posted to ‘X’ Air Firing Squadron at 52 OTU, Aston Down in late March 1942. In early 1943 Lefevre spent a short time with 129 Squadron at Ibsley and was then posted in early April to command 616 Squadron, also at Ibsley. On April 16 the squadron was acting as top cover for Venturas attacking Brest. Lefevre was shot down by flak. Found by the French Resistance, he spent many weeks hiding and moving around before crossing the border into Spain. The British Ambassador got him to Gibraltar and he flew back to England on July 13 1943 and rejoined 616 on August 11. A few days later he took command of 266 Squadron at Exeter. He shared in destroying a Ju 88 on December 1. On January 21 1944 Lefevre destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 23rd he shared in the destruction of a FW 190. The squadron was detailed to attack anti-aircraft guns at AberWrach on February 6 1944. Lefevre went into a shallow dive from 1000 feet into intense fire. He was seen to leave his Typhoon as it went out of control but was too low for his parachute to open properly. Lefevre was reported ‘Missing’. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 200.

Lees was commissioned and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 13. He converted to Blenheims and joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island on August 5. He flew with the squadron in the Battle of Britain. He was awarded the DFC (27.10.41). On December 27 1941 he flew a Beaufighter in the Maaloy/Vaagso commando raid and shot down a He 111, his second victory. In June 1942 Lees was posted to staff duties at HQ Coastal Command. In July he was a passenger in a Walrus, which landed on Gareloch, Scotland with its wheels down. The aircraft crashed, one crew member was killed and Lees suffered severe concussion. He was in a head-injuries hospital in Oxford for several months and did not return to operations. In 1943 and 1944 he instructed at RAF Leuchars and East Fortune. In 1945 Lees experienced severe back pains and it was found that he had suffered broken vertebrae in the Walrus crash. He had an operation in December and was invalided out of the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. Lees died on October 27 1987. PO 13.7.40 FO 11.7.41

FL 11.7.42

RONALD BERESFORD LEES 29257

SL

Pilot

Australian

46 Squadron

Born in Cambridge in 1918, Lefevre was educated at Tonbridge School and spent two years at Pembroke College, Cambridge. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 7 1938, as a pupil pilot.

PO 31.7.37 FO 19.5.39

81681

British

72 Squadron

Lees was born on April 27 1910 at Broken Hill, New South Wales. He was educated at Prince Alfred’s College and St Peter’s College, Adelaide and later the University there. In January 1930 Lees went, as an RAAF flight cadet to Point Cook and after completing his flying training, he sailed for England in January 1931 and transferred to the RAF, on a short service commission, as from March 18. One week later he joined 29 Squadron at North Weald. Lees was posted to 4 FTS, Abu Sueir on May 10 1935, as an instructor. He was given a Permanent Commission on June 1 1936. Back in the UK, he took command of 72 Squadron on December 8 1938. Over Dunkirk on June 2 1940, Lees destroyed a Ju 87. He was posted away from 72 on July 25, to join the Air Staff at HQ 13 Group. He was back with 72 on August 31, on attachment when he had a week’s leave.. On September 2 his Spitfire, K 9840, was severely damaged in combat S of Dungeness. Lees crashed on return to Hawkinge, wounded. He developed gangrene, but the affected leg was saved. He was awarded the DFC (22.10.40). On January 9 1941 Lees became Station Commander at RAF Coltishall, as an Acting Wing Commander. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (26.12.41) and remained at Coltishall until September 1942. Lees was then posted to command 324 Wing in the Middle East, part of the Allied Forces about to invade North Africa. On November 25 1942 he shot down a SM 79.

APO 7.5.38 PO 7.3.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

BRIAN PAUNCEFOOTE LEGGE 41936

PO

Pilot

British

601 Squadron

Legge was born in Snaresbrook, Essex on May 5 1920. He lived in China from an early age and attended the Cathedral School in Shanghai from 1927 to 1934. He went to England in 1934 and was a boarder at Exeter School until 1938. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on February 6 1939, as a pupil pilot. He went on to 6 FTS, Little Rissington in May 1939. For an unknown reason Legge went to 12 FTS, Grantham on September 4 1939, for further training With training completed, he did an Armament course at 5 B&GS, Jurby. He arrived at

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Leggett commanded RAF Dyce in 1956-57. His final posting in the RAF was to Ouston, as Station Commander. He retired on May 23 1958, as a Squadron Leader. Leggett died in May 2013.

6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, where he converted to Hurricanes. On May 13 1940 he joined 73 Squadron in France. He made his first flight on May 17 and flew eight others, his final one being a transit flight from Boos to Gaye on May 29. He soon afterwards became ill, with recurring malaria, a legacy of his time in China, and in early June he reported to No 1 Medical Receiving Station, as non-effective sick. Legge was flying again with 73 by June 5. Later in June Legge went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge and from there he was posted to No 1(C) OTU, Silloth on July 19, where he was on target-towing duties. On September 30 he went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, where he again converted to Hurricanes, Legge was posted to 601 Squadron at Exeter on October 14. He flew four operational sorties with 601 in October, on the 28th, 29th and 30th. He joined 249 Squadro on November 1. He rejoined 73 Squadron at Debden on November 9, and was almost certainly with it when it left for service in the Middle East on the 13th, in the carrier HMS Furious. The squadron flew off at Takoradi and made its way in easy stages to Heliopolis. Legge arrived there on December 24, his being one of only three Hurricanes which reached there undamaged. In early January 73’s pilots were flying operationally, attached to other squadrons in the Western Desert. On April 29 1941 Legge was sent for a rest to Cairo. About May 20 he and other 73 pilots were posted to 252 Wing at Alexandria, then on to 102 MU Ferry Pool at Abu Sueir. On July 16 1941 Legge joined the Delivery Flight, operating from Takoradi. He went to the No 1 Aircraft Delivery Flight at Cairo on December 1 1941. In late January 1943 he went briefly to South Africa and afterwards he joined 216 Squadron at Cairo West, flying Dakotas in supply drops around North Africa and the Sudan. Legge returned to the UK in November 1943 and he joined 512 Squadron at Hendon in December, flying Dakotas on transport duties to Gibraltar and Maison Blanche, Algeria. On February 1 1944 575 Squadron was formed from the nucleus of 512 Squadon at Broadwell On D Day, Legge was involved in supply drops over France. He was seriously wounded in a re-supply operation to Arnhem on September 24 1944 and was sent to hospital in Brussels. For this action he was awarded the DFC (18.12 .44). On January 7 1945 Legge was posted to 233 Squadron at Blakehill Farm, again on Dakotas, making ‘snatches’ i.e. picking up gliders, using a hook to catch the line attached to the glider, cutting out the need for the Dakota to land. Legge was released from the RAF on November 11 1945, with the rank of Squadron Leader. He became manager of a market research company. In June 1947 he joined the RAFVR as a Flying Officer. In January 1948 he began to fly Dakotas with Australian National Airways. A year later he joined Qantas, moving on to Air Burma and Union of Burma Airways. Legge returned to the UK in 1952 and was briefly a freelance pilot before joining Shell Aircraft in the Far East. By 1962 he was back in the UK and joined Lloyd International Airways. He retired from that company in 1968 because of ill health.

PO 31.8.40 FO 31.8.41 FL 1.12.42 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.7.49

ARTHUR CHARLES LEIGH 111975

Sgt

Pilot

British

64 and 72 Squadrons

The son of a regular soldier, Leigh was born in London in 1920. He was working as an assistant in a clothing shop in Cambridge, when he joined the RAFVR in June 1939 as an Airman u/t Pilot (748525). He did his weekend flying at 22 E&RFTS, Cambridge. Called up at the outbreak of war, he went to No 1 ITW, Cambridge. In January 1940 he returned to 22 EFTS, for his ab initio training. In May Leigh was posted to 15 FTS, Middle Wallop for No 9 Course, which ran from May 25 to September 2 1940. He flew Masters and Harvards at Chipping Norton, as part of No 9 Course. Leigh was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 31 1940 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield and flew his first operational sortie on September 29. He moved to 72 Squadron at Biggin Hill on October 11 and then to 611 Squadron at Acklington on November 8 1940. He shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on December 21. Leigh shared in probably destroying a Bf 109 on May 28 1941, destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another on June 18, got a probable Bf 109 on the 22nd, probably destroyed another and damaged a second on July 4, probably destroyed another on the 23rd and destroyed two more on August 19 and September 4. He was awarded the DFM (9.9.41). Leigh had by then completed fifty sweeps over France. He was commissioned in early October and on the 21st he was posted to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course. Leigh went to 8 FTS, Montrose in December 1941, to instruct on Masters. He moved to 17 (P) AFU, Watton in February 1942 and then to 56 OTU, Tealing in February 1943. Leigh was posted to Gibraltar in April 1943, from where he ferried Hurricanes to Cairo. In early August he returned to the UK and joined 56 Squadron at Manston on the 6th. He was shot down on his first sweep by flak, near Calais. Leigh baled out into the Channel and was picked up by an ASR launch. In late 1943 he was posted to 129 Squadron at Hornchurch, awarded the DFC (19.9.44) and on completing his second tour in December, Leigh went on a gunnery course to Catfoss and afterwards became an instructor. In December 1945 Leigh was released from the RAF. He later started a successful architectural hardware business in Norwich. He died on July 3 2004. PO 10.11.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 10.11.43

APO 15.4.39 PO 28.2.40

RUPERT HENRY ARCHIBALD LEIGH 26237

SL

Pilot

British

66 Squadron

PERCIVAL GRAHAM LEGGETT 86329

PO

Pilot

British

615, 245 and 46 Squadrons

Born on May 14 1912, Leigh was educated at Cheltenham College. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1930, as a Flight Cadet. On graduation on December 18 1931, Leigh was granted a Permanent Commission and then posted to 57 Squadron at Netheravon.

Leggett was born on February 14 1921. He joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748596). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 1 1940. On the 18th he crashed at Oldbury-on-Severn, Gloucestershire, in Hurricane N 2489, but was unhurt.

On September 4 1932 Leigh went to RAF Gosport under instruction, and on May 8 1933 he joined 810 (Fleet TorpedoBomber) Squadron, based at Gosport and at sea on HMS Courageous. Leigh went as an instructor to No 1 FTS, Leuchars on July 13 1936 and joined the staff at CFS, Upavon on August 16 1937. He was a Flight Commander there in October 1939. He tested Douglas Bader on the 18th, on his capability for flying duties. On April 7 1940 he joined 66 Squadron, as a supernumerary Squadron Leader, at Duxford. He assumed command of the squadron on the 9th. He shared in the destruction of a He 111 on May 12 1940, destroyed a He 111 on September 9, shared in the destruction of another on the 11th and damaged a Bf 109 on October 13. Leigh was posted to HQ 12 Group on October 18, on administrative duties. He was appointed Acting Wing Commander on November 4, with effect from October 20 1940. He returned to operations in May 1941, taking command of 23 Squadron at Ford. He was posted away in December. Leigh retired from the RAF on December 7 1954, as a Group Captain, retaining the rank of Air Commodore. During the war years he received five Mentions in Despatches. He died on February 1 1991.

He joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick on September 27 but this was a posting error and he was flown in a Whitley next day, to join 245 Squadron at Aldergrove. Leggett went to 46 Squadron at Stapleford on October 18 1940 and on November 11 he claimed a Fiat BR 20 probably destroyed and shared in the destruction of another. Further postings came. Leggett went to 145 Squadron at Tangmere on December 12 and finally to 96 Squadron, on its formation at Cranage on December 18 1940. In late June 1941 Leggett joined 249 Squadron in Malta. He claimed a Mc 200 destroyed on July 17. He was shot down by enemy fighters on December 21 1941, baled out and went to hospital with slight abrasions. On October 20 1942 he joined 73 Squadron in the Western Desert but by December 1942 one source says he was instructing in Canada. However, in August 1943 he was a Spitfire instructor in the Canal Zone. After return to the UK, Leggett was Adjutant at RAF Kirton-in-Lindsey, after which he was posted out to Ceylon, remaining there until after the end of the war. In August 1949 he was given command of 32 Squadron at Nicosia, Cyprus, flying Vampires, and he held the post until 1952.

PO 19.12.31 FO 19.6.33 FL 16.9.36 SL 1.2.39 WC 1.3.41 GC 1.7.44 GC 1.1.50

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O G LEJEUNE 125350

Sgt

Pilot

PAUL LEONARD LENNARD Belgian

235 Squadron

Midshipman (FAA)

Lejeune was enlisted in the RAFVR on July 15 1940 and promoted to Sergeant the next day.

Pilot

British

501 Squadron

Lennard, of Eltham, entered the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on January 20 1939. He did his elementary flying training at 14 EFTS, Elmdon and moved on to No 1 FTS, Leuchars for No 8 Course, which ran from January 15 to June 22 1940.

He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 16 and after he had converted to Blenheims, he joined 235 Squadron on August 5. Lejeune was posted away with his flight on November 19 to Aldergrove, where it combined with a flight from 236 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron, to carry out anti-shipping operations. In mid-1941 the squadron was in Egypt and flew across to operate from Malta on July 19, for a brief period. It flew out to Malta again on September 24 1941 and on the way Lejeune and two other Belgian pilots saw and damaged two Ju 52 transports over the Gulf of Bomba. Lejeune was commissioned in May 1942. He died on April 10 1947, when a Dakota crashed in Galloway, Scotland. He was awarded the C de G (Belg) avec Palme and made a Chevalier of the Order of Leopold.

He was attached to the RAF on June 23, direct from FTS. Two days later he arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 501 Squadron at Croydon on July 8. Lennard was posted away to 760 (FAA) Squadron on July 20 1940 and then to 808 (FAA) Squadron on August 20. He embarked with the squadron on HMS Ark Royal on October 22. In April 1941 Lennard was at Worthy Down. He was killed on March 26 1942, aged 20, serving with HMS Kestrel. He was cremated at West Norwood Crematorium, Lambeth, London. Midshipman 20.1.39 Actg Sub-Lt 21.12.40

EDWIN CLAUDE LENTON 41187

FO

Pilot

British

56 Squadron

PO 25.5.42 Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 25 1938, as a pupil pilot. After completing his flying training, Lenton possibly went to 10 FTS, Ternhill, as an instructor, later going to No 1 Air Armament School, Manby, as a staff pilot.

JOHN DESMOND LENAHAN 41302

PO

Pilot

British

607 Squadron

Lenahan, of Hayes, Kent, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 29 1938, as a pupil pilot. He went to 8 FTS, Montrose for No 10 Course, which ran from November 12 1938 to June 23 1939. However, he was delayed, and he finished with No 14 Course on April 11 1940.

Lenton was posted from No 1 AAS to 9 B&GS on September 4 1939, again as a staff pilot. He went from 9 B&GS back to 10 FTS on January 4 1940. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down from 10 FTS on July 5 1940 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 56 Squadron at North Weald on August 5 1940. Lenton was posted to SHQ North Weald on September 7, as non-effective sick. On October 30 1940 Lenton was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose, as a flying instructor. Lenton was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Squadron Leader. No further service details traced.

Lenahan joined 145 Squadron at Croydon direct from 8 FTS on April 19 and then to 607 Squadron, also at Croydon, on June 1 1940. Flying from Tangmere on September 9, Lenahan was killed when he crashed at Mount Ephraim, Cranbrook, following a combat over Mayfield, in Hurricane P 3117. He was 20 and is buried in Cranbrook Cemetery, Kent.

APO 17.9.38 PO 25.7.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.45

STANLEY PAUL Le ROUGETEL 70392

FL

Pilot

British

600 Squadron

APO 29.10.38 PO 20.4.40 Le Rougetel was born on May 18 1912. He was commissioned in the RAFO and he began his ab initio course on March 8 1937. He completed his training during his year’s term of service.

MAURICE EQUITY LENG 67035

Sgt

Pilot

British

73 Squadron He was attached to 43 Squadron from RAFVR, Coventry on February 6 1939, for advanced flying training. When the attachment ceased, Le Rougetel was posted to Reserve Command on July 15, as a flying instructor. Recalled to full-time service on August 26 1939, Le Rougetel initially joined 35 Squadron at Cranfield but he was later posted to 600 Squadron at Manston. Le Rougetel joined 604 Squadron at Northolt on March 13 1940 but rejoined 600 Squadron at Manston on April 2. During night operations on August 9, his Blenheim, L 8679, had engine failure and came under fire from British anti-aircraft defences. Le Rougetel and his gunner, Sergeant E C Smith, baled out. He was picked up by the Margate lifeboat and Smith swam ashore at Westgate. Le Rougetel was released from the RAF in 1946 and rejoined in 1947. He retired on February 11 1958, as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander.

Joined the RAFVR in September 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741999). Leng did his weekend flying at 21 E&RFTS, Stapleford Tawney. Called to full-time service after the outbreak of war, he was posted to 12 FTS, Grantham in October 1939, to complete his training. In January 1940 Leng went to 4 B&GS, West Freugh, as a staff pilot. He joined 4 (Continental) Ferry Unit at Cardiff on May 18 and on the 29th he was posted to 73 Squadron in France and joined it on the 31st. The squadron was withdrawn to Church Fenton in mid-June 1940. On August 25 Leng was shot down by British anti-aircraft defences whilst on a night patrol and baled out, unhurt. His Hurricane, P 3758, crashed W of Beverley. On September 14 his aircraft was badly damaged in combat and he forced-landed. On September 23 he was shot down by Bf 109s over Sheppey and baled out. He was injured in a heavy landing and admitted to Chatham Hospital. His Hurricane, P 8812, crashed at Ludgate, Lynstead, near Rodmersham. Leng flew no more operational sorties before 73 Squadron left Debden for Birkenhead on November 9 1940, to embark for the Middle East. The squadron boarded the carrier HMS Furious on the 10th and flew off to Takoradi on the 29th. The Hurricanes flew in easy stages to Heliopolis, via Lagos, Accra, Kano, Maiduguri, Khartoum, Wadi Halfa and Abu Sueir. The pilots were attached to 274 Squadron in the Western Desert in December. The squadron began to operate on its own account in January 1941. Leng was posted back to Takoradi on April 9 1941, to the Ferry Pool. He was commissioned later in the month and on October 6 1941 went to 71 OTU, Gordon’s Tree, Sudan, as an instructor. Two weeks later he joined 335 Squadron, a Greek fighter unit at Aqir, Palestine. Leng went to the RHAF Training Flight, also at Aqir, on January 17 1942. He returned to Egypt in July 1942 and was posted to 2 PRU, Heliopolis on August 2. Leng was shot down near Tympaki, Crete, on a shipping reconaissence, on September 30 1942 and captured. He was held in captivity in Germany from October 20 1942 until May 2 1945. At some time he was in Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan (PoW No 739). Leng was released from the RAF in March 1946 and joined the RAFVR in September 1947. He retired in September 1962, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1995.

APO (RAFO) 9.5.37 PO (RAFO) 8.3.38 PO 26.3.39 FO 8.9.39 FL 8.9.40 SL 1.12.41 SL 1.8.47

DANIEL ALBERT RAYMOND GEORGES le ROY du VIVIER 82159

PO

Pilot

Belgian

43 Squadron

Le Roy du Vivier was born on January 13 1915 at Amersfoort. He did his military service in the Guides and in 1937 entered l’Aéronautique Militaire, carrying out his flying training at Wevelghem, where he gained his wings on March 15 1938. He was posted to Tirlemont on November 29 1939, as a Sergeant-Pilot. Commissioned on March 1 1940, he joined 4/IIe Groupe de Chasse at Nivelles, flying Fiat CR 42s and Fairey Fireflies. On May 11 he was shot down in a Firefly, baled out and was taken prisoner by the Belgians, mistaken for a German paratrooper. On May 15 le Roy du Vivier’s unit was posted to France. On June 21 the French signed an Armistice with the Germans and the Belgians were told to stay put. With other pilots, le Roy du Vivier reached Port Vendres, where, with the help of a British destroyer and the support of the Belgian Embassy in London, they caught a passing convoy and embarked on the SS Apapa on the 24th. They arrived in Liverpool on July 7. Le Roy du Vivier was posted as a deserter by the French. He was commissioned in the

PO 26.4.41 FO 26.4.42 FL 26.4.43 FO (RAFVR) 30.9.47

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Levenson joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was embodied on January 2 1940 and posted directly to 611 Squadron at Digby. He claimed a Ju 88 destroyed and a Bf 109 probably destroyed on September 11 1940. On that day Levenson’s Spitfire, P 7321, was severely damaged by return fire from a He 111 engaged over Croydon. He crashed on a dead engine at Pendall Court, Bletchingley, unhurt. On the 15th he claimed a Do 17 destroyed and another probably destroyed. He was posted away to CFS, Upavon on September 22 for an instructor’s course. Levenson returned to operations after undergoing training at 12 OTU, Benson, when he joined 214 Squadron at Stradishall on July 7 1942, to operate in Stirlings. He was then a Warrant Officer. Levenson was killed on his 13th operation, a raid on Essen on the night of September 16/17 1942. His aircraft, Stirling R 9350, was shot down by a night fighter. It crashed SSE of Leuven, with five of the crew killed and the other two became PoWs. Levenson is buried in Heverlee War Cemetery, Belgium.

RAFVR on July 19 1940 and went to 7 OTU, Hawarden that day. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere on August 5. He claimed a Ju 87 destroyed and another damaged on August 16, baled out on September 2, following a combat with Bf 109s and was admitted to the casualty clearing station at Benenden, suffering from leg wounds. His Hurricane, P 3903, crashed at Bell Corner, near Old Romney. He was posted to RAF Tangmere as non-effective sick. Le Roy du Vivier rejoined 43 Squadron on October 5, on ceasing to be non-effective sick. On December 12 he shared a probable Bf 109. He was made a Flight Commander on April 14 1941. He shared Ju 88s on May 7 and 10 and destroyed a Ju 88 on May 28. He was awarded the C de G (Belg) (21.7.41). Le Roy du Vivier took command of 43 Squadron on January 15 1942 and was awarded the DFC (30.1.42). He destroyed a Ju 88 on April 25, was awarded a Bar to the DFC (15.9.42) and on September 22 he was posted to HQ 13 Group on staff duties. Le Roy du Vivier went to the Middle East in April 1943 and was posted to lead 324 Wing in Italy on July 19. He went to RAF Staff College at Haifa for a course and rejoined the Wing on December 24. He returned to England in July 1944 and took command of 53 OTU on August 14. In April 1946 le Roy du Vivier took command of 160 Belgian Wing in Germany. He left the Air Force on September 16 1946 and joined Sabena Airlines. He was killed in a road accident in the USA on September 2 1981.

APO 24.8.36 PO 26.11.37

ALBERT GERALD LEWIS 41303

PO

Pilot

South African

85 and 249 Squadrons

PO 19.7.40 FO 20.12.40 FL 14.4.41 Born in Kimberley on April 10 1918, Lewis was educated at the High School there.

ERIC WILLIAM LESK 116936

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

FIU

Commissioned in January 1943, Lerway went to 53 Squadron, Coastal Command in April. He moved to 279 Squadron in May 1943, an ASR unit with Hudsons. In January 1944 Lerway was posted to 281, another ASR unit, with Warwicks. He went to Air Ministry in September 1945, dealing with the demobilisation of RAF personnel. Lerway was released from the RAF in January 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He emigrated to Canada in 1951.

He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 29 1938. With training completed, he was posted to Lee-on-Solent. Lewis joined 616 Squadron from there on September 17 1939. He went to 12 Group Pool on October 19 1939, for conversion to Hurricanes. He joined 504 Squadron at Debden on December 16 1939. Lewis joined 85 Squadron in France on April 27 1940. On May 12 he shot down a Bf 109 and a He 111, and in two patrols on the 19th Lewis destroyed five Bf 109s before he was himself shot down over Lille. He was awarded the DFC (25.6.40). He arrived at Northolt from France on May 20. On August 18 1940 he probably destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 31st a Bf 109. On September 14 he was posted to 249 Squadron at North Weald. On the 15th Lewis destroyed a He 111 and shared in the probable destruction of another, on the 18th a Bf 109 and on the 27th four Bf 109s, two Bf 110s and a Ju 88 destroyed and two Bf 110s probably destroyed. He was shot down during a combat over Faversham on September 28 and baled out, badly burned. Lewis was admitted to Faversham Hospital. His Hurricane, V 6617, crashed at Blackett’s Farm, Tonge. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (22.10.40). He rejoined 249 Squadron after convalescence on December 22 1940. In May 1941 Lewis was posted to 57 OTU, Hawarden and became CO of ’ ‘C’ Squadron there. He took command of 261 Squadron at China Bay, Ceylon in March 1942. Lewis led the squadron against a Japanese carrier-based aircraft attack on Trincomalee on April 9 1942. He was seriously wounded and did not return to the squadron. He was sent back to the UK in June 1942, to recover from his wounds. After recovery, Lewis was posted to 56 OTU at Tealing in April 1943, later becoming CFI. In August 1943 he was posted to HQ 9 Group.He was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader. His portrait was done by Eric Kennington in 1940. Lewis died on December 14 1982. He is buried in New Cemetery, Stroud, Gloucestershire.

PO 15.1.43 FO 15.7.43 FL 15.1.45

APO 29.10.38 PO 29.11.38 FO 29.11.40 FL 29.11.41

Lesk joined the RAFVR in May 1939, for ground duties. At some later date, possibly after call-up on September 1, he remustered and trained as a Wireless Operator / Air Gunner. He was with the Fighter Interception Unit in August 1940 and flew operational sorties on August 12 and 13 and on September 21. On January 16 1941, flying with Flying Officer C A G Clark, Lesk fired at a He 111, apparently without result. On May 16 1941, again with Clark, Lesk shot down a Ju 88. Lesk is last mentioned in the FIU ORB on September 14 1941. He was commissioned on January 12 1942, in the Aircraft Control Branch, and was still in the RAF in April 1951. No further service details traced. PO 12.1.42

FL 1.9.45

FREDERICK THOMAS LERWAY 142495

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

236 Squadron

Joined the RAFVR in May 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (749552). Lerway was called up at the outbreak of war. With training completed, he joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on September 3 1940 and stayed with the squadron until September 1941, when he went to OTU, as an instructor.

GEORGE MENNIE LESLIE 1002658

AC

Radar Operator

CHARLES SYDNEY LEWIS British

219 Squadron

182072

Leslie, of Aberdeen, joined the RAFVR in June 1940, as an Aircrafthand.

Pilot

British

British

600 Squadron

With the course completed, they returned to the squadron at Tangmere, only to find that 601’s Blenheims had been replaced by Hurricanes. In May 1940 these newly-qualified air gunners were posted to 600 Squadron at Manston, to replace men lost when the squadron lost five aircraft on a daylight raid on Waalhaven airfield, Rotterdam on May 10. Lewis served with 600 throughout the Battle of Britain and he was posted away on January 3 1941, to 256 Squadron at Pembrey, with Defiants. He was commissioned in October 1944 in the Administrative Branch. He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flying Officer. Lewis died in 1954.

STEPHEN AUSTIN LEVENSON Sgt

Air Gunner

Lewis joined 601 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand (801451). Called up on August 24 1939, he began training as an Air Gunner with the squadron and in March 1940 he was sent to 5 B&GS, Jurby for No 7B (Fighter) Air Gunner Course, which ran from the 11th to the 23rd. It was a special course for partially-trained air gunners from fighter squadrons. Lewis went with other air gunners from 601 Squadron.

He volunteered for aircrew duties and after a short radar course, he joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on August 2 1940. He was killed on December 17 1940 when the Beaufighter he was in crashed on its landing approach. Pilot Officer F G Nightingale, the pilot, was also killed. Leslie was 29. He is buried in Saffron Walden Cemetery, Essex.

745292

Sgt

611 Squadron

Levenson, of Taynuilt, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 29 1936. He went to 10 FTS, Ternhill on September 5 1936 and he moved to 9 FTS, Hullavington on April 14 1937, under training. He joined 66 Squadron at Duxford on November 27 1937. He resigned his commission on October 19 1938.

PO 19.10.44 FO 19.4.45

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

JOHN HARDING LEWIS 101513

LAC

WILLIAM GEORGE LEWIS

Radar Operator

British

25 Squadron

967100

Lewis was born on May 23 1922 and educated at Warwick School until the outbreak of war.

25 Squadron

REGINALD HARRY LEYLAND 52003

Sgt

Radar Operator

British

FIU

Leyland joined the RAF in October 1936, as an Aircrafthand (535242). One of the original members of the Fighter Interception Unit, when it was formed at Tangmere in April 1940, he made his first flight with it on April 21, a radar calibration test. By July 1 1940 Leyland had made 86 flights; calibration tests, Chain Home Low Stations exercises and some night patrols. During the Battle of Britain period, he flew many sorties in Blenheims, with Flying Officer G Ashfield as pilot and Pilot Officer G E Morris as observer. In the late evening of July 22 1940, in an AI-equipped Blenheim, they shot down a Do 17 of 2/KG 3 off the Sussex coast. The crew of four were rescued from the sea. It was the FIU’s first successful interception, leading to the destruction of an enemy aircraft by night. Ashfield was so close to the Dornier that oil from the stricken aircraft covered the Blenheim’s perspex screen, robbing him of all forward vision. He managed to make a blind landing at Tangmere just after midnight. On September 9 1940 the canopy of Ashfield and Leyland’s Beaufighter, R 2059, flew off during flight. They made a forced-landing at Tangmere, hitting an unlighted truck and a Chance Light in the process. Both men were unhurt. This was Leyland’s last flight with FIU. For his sterling efforts, operating the new AI equipment, he received a Mention in Despatches (29.9.40). On February 9 1941 Leyland was posted to No 3 Radio School at Prestwick, for duty as an AI instructor. He moved to 62 OTU, Usworth on June 19 1942, on similar duties. Leyland went to 54 OTU, Charter Hall on October 31 1942, for Navigator training at the School of Radio there. He completed the course and joined 151 Squadron at Wittering on January 4 1943, with Sergeant Kneath as his pilot. In February 1943 151 began flying night intruder sorties over France. Leyland was commissioned in March 1943 and posted away on October 17, to the Defensive Squadron of the Telecommunications Flying Unit at Defford, joining ‘A’ Flight, as a Navigator. This Unit carried out testing and experimental work on new developments in radar and communications. Leyland did not make many flights with the Unit, the last one being as a Navigator in a Mosquito on May 31 1945. For his work with the Unit, Leyland received another Mention in Despatches (1.1.46). He was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flying Officer.

RAYMOND GRANT LEWIS Pilot Canadian

British

In July 1941 Lewis was with 214 Squadron at Stradishall, as a Flight Sergeant. He failed to return from an operation to Bremen on July 14. His aircraft, Wellington R 1614, was presumed lost over the North Sea. Lewis’ body was washed up on an English beach and he is buried in Mynydd Bach Congregational Chapelyard, Llwchwr, Glamorganshire.

PO 14.7.41 FO 14.7.42 FL 14.7.43 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.1.52 WC 1.1.60 GC 1.7.65

FO

Air Gunner

Lewis joined the RAFVR in September 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. He completed his training and was on 235 Squadron at North Coates on March 31 1940. He joined 25 Squadron at North Weald on May 14 and was still with it in November 1940.

He joined the RAFVR in February 1940, as an Aircrafthand (1155128). After basic training, he was posted to 25 Squadron at Church Fenton. He volunteered for aircrew duties and was sent to the 604 Squadron Signals School at Middle Wallop on August 31, for an Airborne Radar course. Lewis rejoined 25 Squadron at Martlesham Heath in October 1940, as an LAC. He flew two operational sorties in the Battle of Britain, on October 8 and 29. The squadron began to receive its first Beaufighters from September 1940. Lewis was promoted to Sergeant in early November and he flew his first Beaufighter sortie on the 10th. In March 1941 Lewis began flying as regular radar operator with Pilot Officer M J Herrick. During the night of May 8/9 they attacked and damaged a Ju 88 S of Hull. From June 29 1941 Lewis was attached to the School of Air Navigation at Cranage, probably on a Navigator/Radar course. He was commissioned on July 14 and he rejoined 25 Squadron on the 19th. Lewis was detached to 1453 Flight on August 1 1941. He also served with 1451 and 1456 Flights and at 54 and 62 OTUS before returning to operations in October 1942, with 255 Squadron at Honiley. He went with the squadron to North Africa in November, when it flew out via Gibraltar. In July 1943 Lewis returned to the UK and went on a Navigation Leaders’ course at 62 OTU, Ouston. In late 1943 he applied for pilot-training and was selected. He was posted to Canada in February 1944 and after passing out at No 1 SFTS, Camp Borden, he returned to the UK in March 1945. Granted a Permanent Commission in 1947, Lewis served in Transport Command and commanded the Levant Communications Flight until the evacuation of Palestine in 1948. He flew many VIPs, including King Abdullah of Jordan and Glubb Pasha. In 1948/49 Lewis was a flying instructor at RAF College, Cranwell. In 1949/50 he was seconded to the Falkland Islands Government, during which time he set up the Government Air Service there. In 1951 Lewis returned to Cranwell, as a Squadron Commander at the FTS. He was at the Ministry of Defence in 1954 and from May 1955 he was leader of the RAF party with the Commonwealth Trans-Antarctic Expedition, under the leadership of Vivian Fuchs. Lewis left for the Antarctic in November 1955 and returned to the UK in March 1956. He left again in November 1956 and finally returned in August 1958. He was responsible for the purchase of aircraft and spares, organising and running air surveys and providing close support for the expedition party in the field. In January 1958 Lewis became the first person to make a Trans-Antarctic flight in a single-engined aircraft. He flew from South Ice to Scott Base on the Ross Sea. In recognition of this achievement and his work with the expedition, the four rocky features on the west side of the Gordon Glacier were subsequently named the Lewis Chain. Lewis was awarded the Polar Medal, which was conferred by the Queen at the same investiture at which Vivian Fuchs was knighted. He held a series of appointments and commands at home and overseas in the RAF prior to his retirement in 1972, as a Group Captain. He was awarded the AFC (10.6.54) and Bar (12.6.58). Lewis died in 1990.

41852

Sgt

1 Squadron PO 21.3.43 FO 21.9.43

Lewis, from Qu’Appelle, Saskatoon and Vancouver, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on January 23 1939. With training completed, he went to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on October 24 1939, for further training.

GEORGE EDWARD LILLE 49340

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

264 Squadron

He was posted to 2 Ferry Pilot Pool on November 17 and he joined No 1 Squadron in France on November 26. Lewis shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on May 10 1940. He destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another on the 12th but was then himself shot down, by a Bf 109 of 2/JG 27, and baled out. The Belgians who picked him up were sure he was German and locked him up. He was later released and rejoined his squadron. He destroyed a Bf 110 on the 14th and probably destroyed a He 111 on the 19th. Lewis went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 28 1940, as a flying instructor. He rejoined No 1 Squadron, then at Wittering, on October 21 1940. On the 30th he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88. He went on No 1’s first offensive operation over France, on January 1 1941. With two other pilots, he strafed German installations between Calais and Boulogne. On February 5 1941 Lewis’ engine was set on fire in an attack by Bf 109s and he baled out into the Channel. He was not seen again and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 30.

Lille joined the RAF about July 1939, as a direct-entry Airman u/t Observer (581462). He went to ITW and then on to 7 B&GS on November 25 1939, for No 2 Air Observer Course.

APO 1.4.39 PO 23.10.39 FO 23.10.40

PO 6.42

He was withdrawn from the course on December 30, after failing the navigation training. Lille remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and with training completed he was posted to 264 Squadron at Martlesham Heath, probably in April/May 1940, as an LAC. Off Dunkirk on May 29, flying with Pilot Officer G H Hackwood, Lille shot down a Bf 109, a Bf 110 and a Ju 87 and they shared in the destruction of another Bf 110 and two Ju 87s. On the 31st, again off Dunkirk, they shot down two He 111s and shared another. The last mention of Lille in the 264 Squadron Operational Record Book was a sortie flown on July 19 1940. Lille was commissioned in June 1942. No further details traced.

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

ROBERT LILLEY 801556

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

Lindsey was shot down by Oberleutnant Dobislav of III/JG 27 two miles off St Catherine’s Point. His Hurricane, P 2753, crashed into the Channel and he was reported ‘Missing’. Lindsey’s body was later washed up on the French coast and he is buried in Wimereux Communal Cemetery.

29 Squadron

Lilley joined 601 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand. Called up on August 24 1939, he later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. He completed his training and was with 29 Squadron at Digby in early June 1940.

APO 20.8.38 PO 27.6.39

With the advent of Airborne Radar and the Beaufighter, he retrained as a radar operator. He was still with 29 on December 8 1940. In 1943 Lilley was with 89 Squadron in the Middle East and was awarded the DFC (3.9.43), as a Warrant Officer. He was killed on April 28 1944, serving with 141 Squadron, operating in Mosquitos from West Raynham. Lilley is buried in Heverlee War Cemetery, Belgium.

ARTHUR PETER LINES 39742

FO

Pilot

Sgt

Pilot

British

64 Squadron

With training completed, Lines joined 17 Squadron at Kenley on January 8 1938. He was still with the squadron on September 1 1939. Lines destroyed a Ju 87 N of Brussels on May 17 1940. He was then shot down by Bf 109s, baled out and was shot at by French troops on the way down but not hit. He rejoined his squadron at Hawkinge. Lines went to 10 MU at Hullavington on June 6 1940, probably on a temporary attachment. Six Hurricanes were flown from there on June 17, en route for the Middle East but they ended up in Malta. Lines was probably one of the ferry pilots. He rejoined 17 Squadron, then at Debden on July 3 and then went on a week’s leave. Lines was posted away on August 19 to 48 Squadron, Coastal Command and joined it on the 23rd at Hooton Park. He made his first sortie with the squadron on August 26 and remained with it until October 19 1940, when he went to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course. He later instructed at Sywell, Theale and Panshanger. He was released from the RAF in 1953, as a Flight Lieutenant. Lines died in September 2006.

Limpenny joined the RAFVR about June 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741705). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 16 1940. After converting to Spitfires, Limpenny joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield about September 30. He flew his first operational sortie with the squadron on October 6 1940. On the 27th he damaged a Do 17. Commissioned in January 1945, Limpenny was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flying Officer. He died in Southend-on-Sea in August 1986. PO 5.1.45 FO 5.7.45

ALEC IAN LINDSAY 83982

PO

Pilot

British

17 Squadron

Lines was born on February 11 1919. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 15 1937 at 7 E&RFTS, Desford, as a pupil pilot. He did his intermediate and advanced training at 2 FTS, Digby and later at Brize Norton.

ERIC RONALD LIMPENNY 189635

British

64 and 72 Squadrons

Lindsay was educated at King’s School, Bruton, Somerset. He joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754460). He did his weekend flying at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell.

APO 18.5.37 PO 15.3.38 FO 15.12.39 FL 15.12.40 FL (RAFRO) 1.9.45 Called up on September 1, Lindsay completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 19 Course, which ran from April 11 to July 24 1940. He was commissioned and then went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum, for a course which ran from July 27 to August 21. Lindsay was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 22. He converted to Spitfires and joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield on September 3. He moved to 72 Squadron at Croydon on September 11. In early 1941 Lindsay was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as an instructor. He went to the MSFU, Speke in July. He joined 185 Squadron in Malta in August 1942 and was killed in action on October 23, as a Flight Lieutenant. Lindsay is buried in the Naval Cemetery, Capuccini, Malta.

JOHN GRANVILLE LINGARD 44774

Pilot

British

British

25 and 219 Squadrons

After completing his training as a Fitter Aero Engines at No 1 S of TT, Halton, Lingard passed out in August 1934 and joined 26 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Catterick. One year later he was posted to the Aircraft Depot at Aboukir, where he worked on Rolls Royce Kestrel engines. At that time the RAF in Egypt was being re-inforced in case war came as a result of Mussolini’s actions in Abyssinia. In 1936 Lingard was recommended for pilot training and he returned to the UK in December. After completing his ab initio course, he went to 7 FTS, Peterborough, was selected for fighter aircraft, completed his training and joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge in September 1937, as a Sergeant-Pilot. He was still with 25 at the start of the Battle of Britain. During the night of July 10/11 1940 he intercepted and attacked a He 111, claiming it as destroyed. The claim was supported by evidence from the radar stations and it is believed the enemy aircraft crash-landed in France, with crew casualties. In the early hours of July 20 he damaged a He 115 off Walton-on-Naze. Commissioned in October 1940, Lingard moved to 219 Squadron at Redhill on the 29th. His stay was short and on December 17 he went to Coastal Command, joining the recentlyformed 252 Squadron at Chivenor, operating with Beaufighters in a long-range fighter role. Lingard was appointed a Flight Commander and in mid-1941 he was posted to 143 Squadron at Aldergrove. After a few months at Sumburgh in the Shetlands, he joined 272 Squadron, with Beaufighters in the Western Desert, as a Flight Commander. On May 11 1942 he shared in the destruction of a He 111. At the end of his operational tour in late 1942, Lingard returned to the UK and was posted to the Coastal OTU at Catfoss, as a Squadron Commander. In October 1943 he rejoined 143 Squadron, then at Portreath, as a Flight Commander, taking part in many strikes against enemy shipping. He was awarded the DFC (25.7.44). In August 1944 Lingard took command of 217 Squadron in the Far East Air Force and led it until the end of the war. In the post-war RAF he held several appointments, including Chief Instructor at CGS from 1948 to 1950. He retired on March 31 1958, as a Wing Commander. Lingard died in 1995.

PATRICK CHALONER LINDSEY PO

Pilot

Born on September 1 1914 in Undercliffe, Yorkshire, Lingard was educated at Morecambe Grammar School. He left and entered the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice (565629), on his 17th birthday, September 1 1931.

PO 27.7.40 FO 27.7.41 FL 27.7.42

41036

PO

601 Squadron

Born in Daresbury, Cheshire on July 16 1920, Lindsey was the son of the Rev C Lindsey OBE, who had served as a chaplain in the Great War. He was at St John’s School, Leatherhead from 1934 to 1937 and was a member of the OTC. In early 1938 Lindsey applied for a short service commission in the RAF. He was provisionally accepted and began his ab initio course at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield on June 27. Lindsey went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on August 20 for a short disciplinary course, after which he was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on September 3. He was awarded his wings on December 12 1938 and on completion of the course, he went to 2 AOS on April 15 1939, as a staff pilot. On August 17 Lindsey was pilot of one of three aircraft involved in a mid air collision near Berwick-on-Tweed. When he realised that one of his passengers had no parachute Lindsey, in spite of head injuries and compound fractures of one leg, managed to land the aircraft safely. He was admitted to Berwick Infirmary, transferred to the RAF Hospital at Halton on October 23 and went to convalescence at Torquay five days later. For his coolness and courage, Lindsey received a letter of appreciation from the Air Council. Fit again, he reported to No 1 Depot, Uxbridge on February 22 1940, was placed on temporary administrative duties and on March 12 he joined 29 Squadron at Debden. He went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 23rd and after converting to Hurricanes, Lindsey was posted to 601 Squadron at Tangmere on April 20. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on July 11. In an action over the Channel on the 26th,

PO 29.10.40 FO 24.12.40 FL 24.12.41 SL 7.11.44 SL 15.4.46 WC 1.7.47

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

ANTHONY STUART LINNEY 41717

FO

Pilot

British

He was still with 92 in a supernumerary capacity. After long hospital treatment, Lister was declared medically unfit for flying duties in June 1941 and posted to the Operations Room at Biggin Hill, as Controller. In April 1942 he became SASO at HQ 219 Group at Alexandria and in October 1943 became CO 209 Group at Haifa. From September 1944 until July 1945 Lister was on the staff at Air HQ Eastern Mediterranean, after which he commanded RAF Amman, Jordan until March 1946, when he was posted back to the UK. Lister later commanded RAF Wattisham and was subsequently SOA at HQ 64 Group. He was Station Commander at RAF Newton when he retired on October 31 1954, as a Wing Commander, retaining the rank of Group Captain. Lister died in March 1998.

229 Squadron

Linney joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on December 28 1938. With training completed, he was posted to 229 Squadron on October 4 1939, when it reformed at Digby. The squadron sent a flight to France in May 1940, from the 18th to the 24th. On the 23rd Linney damaged a Bf 109 in the Merville area. The squadron moved to Wittering on June 26. Over Dunkirk on the 29th Linney was shot down and baled out, returning safely to the squadron. He made his last sortie with 229 on September 18 1940, an uneventful one, with no contact made with the enemy. He was posted away in October and in July 1941 was with MSFU at Speke. After completing his catapult training, Linney was posted to Canada as a back-up pilot, to replace any pilot fired off on a voyage from the UK and killed or injured. He remained at Dartmouth, Nova Scotia for nine months i/c MSFU Pool. Linney was made an OBE (2.6.43) and was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Wing Commander. He died in 1983.

PO 28.7.34 FO 28.1.36 FL 28.1.38 SL 1.1.40 WC 1.12.41 WC 1.10.46

PETER LITCHFIELD 76461

PO

Pilot

British

610 Squadron

Litchfield was born in Croydon on April 30 1915. He joined the RAFVR about December 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741035). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 11 FTS, Shawbury on No 14 Course, which ran from September 27 to November 18 1939, for advanced training only.

APO 4.3.39 PO 3.10.39 FO 3.10.40 FL 3.10.41 SL 4.10.43

ALFRED JOHN LIPSCOMBE 759213

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

He joined 611 Squadron at Digby on November 20. Litchfield was commissioned on December 1 and joined 610 Squadron at Wittering on December 11. On May 27 1940 he destroyed a Bf 110 over Dunkirk and on the 31st he destroyed another E of Dover. On July 3 Litchfield probably destroyed a Do 17 and on the 14th he destroyed a Bf 109 and severely damaged another in an action off Dover. From one of the aircraft, the pilot baled out and the aircraft crashed near Boulogne. On July 18 Litchfield was leading Green Section, when he was shot down over the Channel N of Calais by Hauptmann Tietzen of II/JG 51, in Spitfire P 9452. Litchfield had previously been seen chasing a Bf 109 into cloud. He was reported ‘Missing’, aged 25. Litchfield is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 9.

600 Squadron

Lipscombe, of Edgware, joined the RAFVR about August 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 600 Squadron at Catterick on October 8 1940. With the advent of Airborne Radar and the Beaufighter, Lipscombe retrained as a radar operator and he teamed up with Flying Officer R S Woodward. In the late evening of May 3 1941 they destroyed a Ju 88 near Shepton Mallet, which crashed at Moons Hill Farm, Stoke St Michael, Somerset. On the night of May 9/10 their aircraft was set on fire a long way out to sea, in an attack by another night fighter, probably of 604 Squadron. Woodward managed to fly it back over land and then he and Lipscombe baled out safely. On July 9 they shot down a He 111 near Abergavenny. They were flying on September 20 1941, when their Beaufighter went into a spin. Woodward ordered Lipscombe to bale out. He did so and was killed. Woodward got away with a broken leg. Lipscombe was 22. He is buried in Hendon Cemetery.

PO 1.12.39

FREDERICK WILLIAM RONALD LITSON 145432

SL

Pilot

British

Air Gunner

British

141 Squadron

Litson was born in 1918 at Ystalyfera, Glamorganshire and educated at Wern School, Ystalyfera and Brendon School, North Devon. He joined the RAFVR in September 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. (903438). He completed his training and joined 141 Squadron in early 1940. He was posted to 307 (Polish) Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on August 31 1940.

ROBERT CHARLES FRANKLIN LISTER 33118

Sgt

41 and 92 Squadrons Born on August 23 1913, Lister was at Cheltenham College from 1927 to 1932. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1932, as a Flight Cadet. He won the Groves Memorial Prize in 1934.

Commissioned in May 1943, Litson was awarded the DFC (10.12.43), as a Pilot Officer with 429 (RCAF) Squadron, operating in Halifaxes from Leeming in Yorkshire. His citation stated that he had “completed many successful operations against the enemy in which he has displayed high skill, fortitude and devotion to duty.“ He was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. Litson was commissioned in the Royal Air Force Reserve of Officers in December 1946. He died in 1962.

After graduating with a Permanent Commission on July 28 1934, Lister joined 13 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Netheravon on that day. Lister was posted to 20 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Peshawar on February 28 1935. In 1937 he was supporting the Army, operating in the mountains of Waziristan, against tribesmen led by the Fakir of Ipi. Lister was awarded the DFC (16.8.38) for gallant and distinguished services in operations in Waziristan from September 16 to December 15 1937. He received a Mention in Despatches (18.2.38). Back in the UK, Lister was posted to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course, after which he went to 10 FTS, Ternhill. On January 2 1939 he was made Adjutant of 614 Squadron, AAF at Cardiff. In late 1939 Lister crashed during take-off, with engine failure, and fractured his spine. He was in plaster for nine months and was given a temporary job at Air Ministry. Lister was cleared for flying duties in August 1940 and asked for fighters. He was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden, converted to Spitfires and then took temporary command of 41 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 8. He was shot down on the 14th whilst flying at the rear of a squadron formation, by a Bf 109 out of the evening sun, whom no one spotted. Lister baled out when the aircraft caught fire, wounded in the arm. On the 22nd he was attached to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill, as a supernumerary. On September 24 92 was scrambled to be part of a ‘Big Wing’ of three squadrons. Time was wasted and it met a formation of nine Ju 88s with a one hundred plus Bf 109 escort, headon and slightly below. After a general break, Lister found himself alone and being circled by some nine Bf 109s. He was eventually hit by a cannon shell in the bottom of the cockpit and wounded in both legs. He went into a spin, managed to get back to Biggin Hill but had only one flap working, causing him to go out of control into a skidding, diving turn, which fortunately took the Spitfire into a valley below the level of the airfield. Lister regained control, made a landing without flaps and stopped ten yards short of a wood at the far end of the runway.

PO 4.5.43 FO 4.11.43 FL 4.5.45 FL (RAFRO) 23.12.46

ARTHUR GUTHRIE LITTLE 78546

PO

Air Gunner

British

235 Squadron

Little joined the RAFVR in March 1940, with a direct-entry commission as an Air Gunner. He completed his training and joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton in May 1940. He was on No 8 Gunnery Leaders’ Course at CGS, Warmwell from July 16 to August 9 1940. He rejoined 235 on the 13th and served with it during the rest of the Battle of Britain period. No further service details traced. Little was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. APO 15.3.40 PO 4.5.40 FO 4.5.41 FL 4.5.42

BERNARD WILLIAMSON LITTLE 90326

FL

Pilot

British

609 Squadron

Little joined 609 Squadron, AAF in 1937 and was called to full-time service on August 24 1939. He damaged a Ju 87 on July 11 1940. He became non-effective sick with appendicitis

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Little was reported ‘Missing’, aged 23. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 16. In April 2002 a memorial plaque to him was unveiled at Trinity School, Carlisle, formerly Carlisle Grammar School.

on August 2. On recovery he was posted to 9 FTS, Hullavington for a course and then went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on November 6 1940, as an instructor. Little went to 51 OTU, Debden from 58 OTU, Grangemouth on August 12 1941, as Chief Ground Instructor. At some time he was in hospital for six months with frozen joints. He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Squadron Leader, and was made OBE (1.1.46). Little died in 1986.

THOMAS BURGESS LITTLE C 1117

FO

Pilot

He went to RAF Uxbridge on July 10 for an R/T procedure course. On August 28 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17 and on the 31st he destroyed a Bf 109. He was himself shot down on September 11, during an attack on He 111s over Tunbridge Wells. He baled out, wounded in the leg and with burns to face and side of body. He landed at Rotherfield and was admitted to the Kent and Sussex Hospital, Tunbridge Wells. His Hurricane, P 3534, crashed at Lakestreet Manor, Mayfield. Little was posted as non-effective sick and did not rejoin his squadron until November 30. 1940. On August 27 1941 Little was reported ‘Missing’, as a Flight Lieutenant with 402 (RCAF) Squadron. He was 24 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 59.

JAMES HAYWARD LITTLE FL

Pilot

British

1 (RCAF) Squadron

Born in Montreal on September 9 1917, Little joined the RCAF on August 16 1939. He was with No 1 (RCAF) Squadron, when it arrived in the UK on June 20 1940.

PO (AAF) 12.7.37 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

90125

Canadian

219 and 600 Squadrons Educated at Eton, Little joined 601 Squadron, AAF in 1934. He transferred to 611 Squadron, AAF on September 25 1936.

Little was called to full-time service with the squadron at the outbreak of war and on October 6 1939, he joined 219 Squadron at Catterick, and was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander. He was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader on May 16 1940 and took command of the squadron. Little also flew sorties with 600 Squadron in the Battle of Britain. His only recorded sortie with 219 from Catterick was made on September 18, when Little, flying with Pilot Officer H R Crowley as his gunner, investigated an X raid. On September 23 1940 Little collected a Beaufighter from St Athan and flew it to Redhill, where 600 Squadron was based. Little flew four operational patrols and made one local flight on October 1 and 2, one patrol with Flight Lieutenant J H Hunter-Tod on the 1st and three with Pilot Officer Crowley on the 2nd. 219 Squadron replaced 600 Squadron at Redhill on October 12 1940 and the next two sorties made by Little, on the 14th and 15th, were both in a Beaufighter, with Crowley. On February 17 1941 Little destroyed a Do 17 near Windsor and on March13 he destroyed a He 111 and damaged another off The Needles. He was taking off in 219’s Miles Magister on March 26, when a Ju 88 appeared from cloud and strafed the aircraft. Little and the Magister both escaped, undamaged. Little was then tour-expired and was posted away. He was awarded the DFC (18.3.41), being then credited with a Do 17 destroyed in the evening of February 17 1941, with Sergeant S Austin as his radar operator. In December 1942 Little took command of 418 (RCAF) Squadron, operating in Bostons from Bradwell Bay. During the night of April 14/ 15 1943 he shot down an unidentified enemy aircraft over Beauvais. On June 12 1943 Little took off in a Mosquito for a short test flight but failed to gain height and hit a hill. Both he and his radar operator, Flight Sergeant D H Styles DFM were killed. Little was 31. He is buried in Grange Cemetery, Hoylake.

ARTHUR JOHN ALEXANDER LLEWELLIN 39998

FO

Pilot

British

29 Squadron

Llewellin, from Mountain Ash, Glamorganshire, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 24 1937, as a pupil pilot. He moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill on August 21 and with training completed, he joined 19 Squadron on November 7 1938, at Duxford. He was detached to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on April 13 1939, for an anti-gas course. Llewellin was posted away to 29 Squadron on September 9 1939. He went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 9 1940, for instructor duties. He crashed on the aerodrome on October 5, in Blenheim K 7088. Both he and his pupil were unhurt. Llewellin joined 255 Squadron on November 27 1940, then being formed at Kirton-inLindsey, and was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander next day. In October 1941 Llewellin was given command of 232 Squadron and in November the squadron left the UK for Singapore, arriving on January 13 1942. He left the squadron for other duties and was killed on March 24 1942, when he struck a wireless mast, taking off from Kallang. Llewellin is remembered on the Singapore Memorial, Column 411. APO 9.8.37 PO 24.5.38 FO 24.3.40 FL 24.3.41

PO (AAF) 25.7.34 FO (AAF) 15.3.36 FL 3.9.39 SL 1.12.40 WC 1.3.42

REGINALD THOMAS LLEWELLYN RONALD LITTLE 754893

Sgt

Pilot

47380 British

Sgt

Pilot

British

213 Squadron

238 Squadron Born in Bristol on March 25 1914, Llewellyn enlisted in the RAF on January 13 1931, as an Aircraft Apprentice (565271), and passed out in December 1933.

Little was born in 1918 at Armathwaite, Cumberland, where his parents ran the Red Lion Hotel. He started school in Edinburgh and then went to Carlisle Grammar School from 1933 to 1936.

He served in Iraq from 1934 to 1937 and with 27 Squadron in India in 1938. He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot in October 1938. Llewellyn returned to the UK in late 1938 for flying training. With training completed, he joined 263 Squadron, when it was reformed at Filton on October 2 1939. Llewellyn was posted to 41 Squadron at Catterick on November 25 1939. He went to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on December 31 for further training and after he had converted to Hurricanes, he joined 213 Squadron at Wittering on February 3 1940. Llewellyn went to 229 Squadron at Digby on May 20 1940 but he rejoined 213 five days later. Over Dunkirk on May 29, he claimed two Bf 109s and a He 111 destroyed and probably another He 111. On August 11 Llewellyn claimed a Ju 88 destroyed, another shared and another damaged, on the 13th a Ju 88 destroyed, on the 14th a Do 17 damaged, on the 15th three Bf 110s destroyed, on the 19th and 20th Ju 88s destroyed, on the 25th a Bf 110 destroyed and a Bf 109 shared and on September 11 two Bf 110s destroyed. On the 15th Llewellyn shared in the destruction of a Do 17 but was himself shot down,

In August 1939 he joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he did his elementary training at 10 EFTS, Yatesbury and moved on to 3 FTS, South Cerney for No 31 Course, which ran from November 20 1939 to May 24 1940. With training completed, he then joined 238 Squadron, recently-reformed at Tangmere. On July 11 Little probably shared in the destruction of a Bf 110, on the 26th his Hurricane was damaged and bullets passed through his parachute and one shoe, on August 8 he probably damaged a Do 17 and on the 13th Little was himself shot down by a Bf 109 off Portland. He baled out into the sea, was picked up and then admitted to hospital. His Hurricane crashed at Bredy Farm, Burton Bradstock. Little rejoined his squadron on August 26. On September 15 Little shared a Ju 88 and damaged a He 111 and on the 25th he shot down a He 111. He was shot down into the sea by a Bf 110 on September 28 E of the Isle of Wight, in Hurricane N 2400.

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arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 12 1940.and joined 41 Squadron at Catterick in early September 1940. He did not carry out his first operational sortie until October 12. Lloyd was shot down and killed in a surprise attack by Hauptmann Fözö of 4/JG 51 on October 15. His Spitfire, X 4178, crashed into the Channel. His body was washed ashore near Kings Hall, Herne Bay twelve days later. Lloyd was 23. He is buried in the Holy Innocents’ churchyard, High Beach, Essex.

in combat with Bf 110s over Hawkhurst. He baled out, severely wounded in the right arm, and was admitted to the casualty clearing station at Benenden. He was awarded the DFM (22.10.40). Commissioned in November 1941, Llewellyn did not fly operationally again. In 1943 he was a Specialist Weapons Officer. He joined 74 Squadron at Colerne in 1945, as a Flight Commander, and took command of the squadron in September. In January 1946 Llewellyn was posted to Palestine, as OC 208 Squadron. He took command of 87 Squadron at Treviso, Italy in August 1946. He held a series of staff appointments and commands prior to retiring from the RAF on March 24 1957, as a Flight Lieutenant. Llewellyn later emigrated to Australia and died there in 2000. PO 11.11.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 11.11.43 FL 11.5.45

————- LLOYD No unknown

AC

PETER WILLIAM LOCHNAN

Radar Operator

British 29 Squadron

C 997

FO

Pilot

AC Lloyd flew one operational sortie with 29 Squadron during the Battle of Britain period, on August 10 1940. No other service details traced.

Canadian

1 (RCAF) Squadron

Lochnan, of Ottawa, was born there on August 3 1913. He joined the RCAF on June 5 1939 and arrived in the UK on June 20 1940 with 112 (RCAF) Squadron, an Army Cooperation Reserve and Holding Unit.

DAVID EDWARD LLOYD 115061

Sgt

Pilot

British

64, 19 and 92 Squadrons

He was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 19 and after converting to Hurricanes, Lochnan was posted to No 1 (RCAF) Squadron at Northolt on August 31 and he joined the squadron at Northolt on September 2. Lochnan damaged two Bf 109s on the 9th and on the 11th, following an engagement with He 111s over Tunbridge Wells, he crashed near Romney and his Hurricane, V 6670, was burned out. He escaped unhurt. On the 14th he damaged a Do 17 and on the 15th he shared in the destruction of a He 111 SE of Gatwick and then made a crash-landing alongside a downed He 111 and took the crew prisoner. Possibly it was the aircraft he had just shared in shooting down. On the 27th he shared in the destruction of a Bf 110, on October 5 he damaged another and on the 7th he destroyed a Bf 109. Lochnan was posted on February 3 1941 to 110 (RCAF) Squadron, which was renumbered 400 (RCAF) Squadron on March 1 1941. He was killed in a flying accident on May 21 1941, in a Tomahawk of 400 (RCAF) Squadron, as a Flying Officer. Lochnan was 27. He is buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery.

Lloyd, of Wanstead, Essex, joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (758193). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 12 1940. After converting to Spitfires, he was posted to 64 Squadron at Leconfield on August 28. Lloyd flew his first operational sortie on September 3, a patrol during a flight from Leconfield to Ringway. On the 5th Lloyd crashed in Spitfire P 9563, whilst on a routine patrol, unhurt. He moved to 19 Squadron at Fowlmere on the 12th and shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 on September 18. Lloyd went to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill on October 14 1940 and on December 1 he damaged a Bf 109. He was posted away to 61 OTU on August 19 1941, as an instructor. Commissioned in January 1942, Lloyd was killed on March 17 in a mid-air collision. He was No 3 in an OTU formation and collided with the leader of a 315 (Polish) Squadron formation. Lloyd was 22. He is buried in St Mary’s churchyard, Wanstead.

ERIC STANLEY LOCK

PO 13.1.42

81642

JOHN PHILLIP LLOYD 83983

PO

Pilot

British

PO 27.7.40 FO 21.7.41 FL 21.7.42

PHILIP DAVID LLOYD Pilot

British

British

41 Squadron

He joined the RAFVR in February 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745051). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 6 FTS Little Rissington, on No 17 Course, which ran from December 9 1939 to June 17 1940. Lock was commissioned and he joined 41 Squadron at Catterick direct from FTS on June 18. On August 15 1940 Lock destroyed a Bf 110 in the Bishop Auckland area. The squadron went to Hornchurch on September 3. Lock claimed two Bf 109s and a He 111 destroyed and a Bf 109 probably destroyed on the 5th and was slightly wounded, he damaged a Ju 88 on the 6th, which crashed at Evere, shot down two Bf 109s on the 9th, a Bf 110 and a Ju 88 on the 11th, destroyed two Bf 109s on the 14th, another Bf 109 destroyed and a Do 17 shared on the 15th, a Bf 109 destroyed and probably two more on the 18th and a Bf 109 and a Hs 126 destroyed on the 20th. Lock was awarded the DFC (1.10.40). On October 5 he shot down a Bf 109 and probably two more, on the 9th he destroyed another Bf 109 and probably two more, on the 11th destroyed another Bf 109, on the 20th another one and on the 25th probably another. Lock was awarded a Bar to the DFC (22.10.40). On November 17 he shot down two Bf 109s but was then himself jumped by a Bf 109 and wounded in the right arm and both legs. He managed to make a crash-landing on Martlesham Heath. Unable to move, he sat in the cockpit for two hours before being found by two soldiers, who carried him for two miles on a makeshift stretcher, made of rifles and a greatcoat. Lock was awarded the DSO (17.12.40). He was in hospital until May 1941 and had fifteen operations for removal of shell splinters. In June he went on a flying refresher course and in early July 1941 he was posted to 611 Squadron at Hornchurch, as a Flight Commander. He claimed Bf 109s destroyed on July 6, 8 and 14. On a sweep over France on August

He was commissioned in July and appears to have gone to No 1 School of Army Cooperation at Old Sarum on July 27. Lloyd arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 5 and after converting to Spitfires, he was posted to 64 Squadron at Leconfield about the 20th and flew his first operational sortie on the 24th. He moved to 72 Squadron at Croydon on September 11. Lloyd destroyed a Bf 109 on the 14th and he damaged a He 111 on the 15th. His Spitfire, P 9368, was seriously damaged in combat with Bf 109s on the 18th and Lloyd made a forced-landing at Martin Mill, Dover, seriously wounded. Lloyd was almost certainly posted to RAF Biggin Hill as non-effective sick and it seems he did not rejoin 72 Squadron. He was posted from RAF Biggin Hill to RAF Middle Wallop on December 21 1940, receiving unit not known. Awarded the AFC (1.1.43), Lloyd was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1971.

Sgt

Pilot

Born at Bayston Hill, Shrewsbury on April 19 1919, Lock was educated at Prestfelde School and went into the family farming and quarrying business.

64 and 72 Squadrons

Lloyd joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (758203). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill, probably on No 19 Course, which ran from April 11 to July 24 1940.

745794

PO

41 Squadron

Born in Loughton, Essex, Lloyd worked for the Chigwell Urban District Council. He joined the RAFVR in September 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot, and did his weekend flying at 21 E&RFTS, Stapleford Tawney. Called to full-time service at the outbreak of war, Lloyd completed his training and

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another damaged, on the 15th shared a Bf 109, on the 16th destroyed a He 111, on the 18th damaged a Do 17, on the 20th destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 24th he got a probable Bf 109. Lofts joined 249 Squadron at North Weald on September 10. He made a crash-landing at West Malling on the 15th, when his Hurricane was severely damaged by a Bf 109, following his sharing in the destruction of a He 111 SE of London. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on the 27th. On October 16 Lofts shared in the destruction of a Do 17 and was then himself hit by return fire from a Do 17. He made a forced-landing at Rolvenden, near Tenterden, in Hurricane V 6878. His aircraft was damaged in a bombing attack on October 29, as he was taking off from North Weald. He was awarded the DFC (22.10.40). In February 1941 Lofts was posted to 52 OTU, Debden, as an instructor, and left there on July 30. He was posted to Turnhouse in November, to form and command 340 Squadron. Lofts commanded 134 Squadron at Eglinton and later Baginton from February to April 1942. He took command of 66 Squadron at Skeabrae in May 1943. On October 8 he damaged a Bf 110, on the 13th shared a Ju 88 and on May 19 1944 he damaged a Bf 109. He was posted away in late May 1944 and awarded a Bar to the DFC (26.1.45). Lofts was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Wing Commander. He rejoined the RAuxAF in January 1948 and commanded 604 Squadron from 1948 until he was killed in a flying accident in a Vampire on May 20 1951, at Swiss Park, Cranbrook.

3 1941, Lock saw some German soldiers on a road near Calais. He dived to attack them and was not seen again. Lock is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 29. His portrait was drawn by Cuthbert Orde in July 1941. PO 18.6.40 FO 18.6.41

JAMES LOCKHART 74708

FO

Pilot

British

85 and 213 Squadrons

Lockhart, of London, was commissioned in the RAFVR in November 1939, possibly as a University Entrant. He may have been in a University Air Squadron. He went to RAF College FTS, for No 6 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 9 1940. Lockhart did the final part of his course at 10 B&GS, Warmwell from April 26, with the Advanced Training Squadron of RAF College FTS. En route there from Cranwell, with the ATS, he had to make a forced landing. He was unhurt. Lockhart arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 14. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 85 Squadron at Debden on May 24. The squadron had been withdrawn from France three days earlier. On August 18 he damaged a Bf 110 and on the 24th he was slightly wounded. He moved to 213 Squadron at Tangmere on September 16 1940. He commanded the squadron from November 1941 until January 1942. Lockhart was killed on April 5 1942, as a Flight Lieutenant with 258 Squadron, then based at Colombo Racecourse. He was 26. He is buried in Kanatte Cemetery, Colombo, Sri Lanka.

APO 7.11.38 PO (AAF) 22.4.39 SL (RAuxAF) 1.1.48

Sgt

Pilot

British

PO

Pilot

British

266 Squadron

236 Squadron At the outbreak of war he was with ‘C’ Flight of 2 AACU at Mount Batten, Plymouth He was posted from there to 12 OTU, Benson on May 19 1940. After converting to Battles, Logan joined 12 Squadron at Finningley, soon after its return from France on June 16 1940. He flew only one sortie with the squadron, on August 18, an attack on shipping at Boulogne at nightfall. Logan, who had been commissioned on July 20, probably volunteered for Fighter Command in August and he was posted to 266 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 20. He was posted to 222 Squadron at Hornchurch on November 4 1940. Logan was killed on March 27 1941, still serving with 222 Squadron. He was 29 and is buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery, Woking.

Whilst flying on an escort operation on July 20, he was shot down by Hauptmann Neumann of JG 27 and crashed into the Channel off Cherbourg, in Blenheim L 1300. Both he and his gunner, Sergeant H Corcoran, were reported ‘Missing’. Lockton was 22. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 16.

JOSEPH CHARLES LOCKWOOD Sgt

SL 1.7.44

Logan, of Bedhampton, joined the RAF as an Aircraft Apprentice (562772) in September 1928 and passed out in August 1931. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot.

Lockton, of Ashby-de-la-Zouche, joined the RAFVR in late January 1937, the sixth man to join as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, Lockton completed his training at 12 FTS, Grantham and he joined 236 Squadron at Middle Wallop on July 3 1940, direct from FTS.

754820

FL 3.9.41

FO 3.10.40 FL 3.10.41

ERIC EDWARD LOCKTON 740005

FO 3.9.40

COLIN LOGAN 44178

PO 8.11.39

PO 24.8.39

Pilot

British

54 Squadron PO 20.7.40

Lockwood, of Purley, Surrey, joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot.

ORMONDE ARTHUR LOGIE 77360

Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940. He converted to Spitfires and joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on or about September 23. His first flight with the squadron was made on the 24th, when he acted as target for other pilots, training wth camera guns. Lockwood was killed on March 3 1941, still with 54, aged 22. Lockwood is buried in Bandon Hill Cemetery, Beddington, Surrey.

PO

Air Gunner

British

29 Squadron

Logie was born on January 12 1909 and joined the RAFVR in February 1940, with a direct-entry commission as an Air Gunner. He completed his training and he was on 29 Squadron at Drem by April 4 1940. He served with the squadron in the Battle of Britain and was posted away to 16 (Army Co-operation) Squadron on December 29 1940. Logie relinquished his commission on April 30 1941 because of ill-health and was released by the RAF. He died in July 1989. APO 3.2.40 PO 16.3.40

KEITH TEMPLE LOFTS 90483

FO

Pilot

British

WITOLD LOKUCIEWSKI

615 and 249 Squadrons

P 1492 Born in Canterbury on February 8 1918, Lofts was at Haileybury College from 1932 to 1935. He joined 615 Squadron, AAF in 1938 and was called to full-time service on August 24 1939.

PO

Pilot

Polish

303 Squadron

Lokuciewski was born at Novocherkask-on-Don, Russia on February 1 1917, but his family moved to Wilno in Poland in 1918. In 1935 he went to the Cavalry Reserve Officers’ School and then to the Air Force Academy at Deblin in 1936. Lokuciewski graduated in 1938 and joined the 112 Fighter Eskadra in III/1 Dyon, Warsaw. In September 1939 he probably destroyed a He 111 in the first days of the fighting and destroyed a Ju 87 and shared a Do 17 on the 6th. Lokuciewski flew his aircraft to Romania on September 17. He then made his way to France via Yugoslavia and Italy. He joined l’Armée de l’Air and flew in a fighter section in defence of an aircraft factory at Romorantin. On June 6 1940 he destroyed a He 111. When France collapsed, Lokuciewski went to England and was sent to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool.

He was attached to 11 Group Pool for Hurricane training, from September 14 to 17. Lofts flew from Croydon to Merville with the squadron on November 15 and is believed to have destroyed three enemy aircraft whilst in France. The squadron was withdrawn to Kenley on May 21 1940 and was operational again a month later. On a patrol over France on June 22 Lofts damaged a Ju 52. On August 14 1940 he claimed a Ju 87 destroyed and

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posted away soon afterwards. In January 1941 Lonsdale was posted to Canada, as an instructor. Promoted to Warrant Officer in October 1941, Lonsdale returned to England in 1943. He was sent on a Lancaster conversion course and flew with Bomber Command until the end of the war. Lonsdale later resettled in Canada. He died there in 1989.

He joined 303 Squadron at Northolt at its formation on August 2 1940. He claimed a Do 17 destroyed and probably another on September 7, destroyed a Do 17 and a Bf 109 on the 11th and a Bf 109 on the 15th. On this day he was wounded in the leg in combat with Bf 109s over the Kent coast. His next sortie was made on October 5 1940, a ‘B’ Flight patrol. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (23.12.40) and the KW (1.2.41). On April 20 1941 Lokuciewski destroyed a Bf 109, on June 18 a Bf 109, on the 22nd a Bf 109 and probably another and on July 11 probably another. He was awarded a Bar to the KW (10.9.41) and the DFC (30.10.41). Lokuciewski was appointed a Flight Commander on November 21 1941 and was shot down and captured on

APO 20.1.36 PO 25.11.36 FO 25.5.38

DAVID JOHN LOOKER 90607

Pilot

British

British

615 and 607 Squadrons

Having gained his pilot’s licence at Heston, he joined 615 Squadron, AAF at Kenley in 1938 and was a fully-trained pilot when he was called to full-time service on August 24 1939. He was attached to 11 Group Pool, St Athan, for Hurricane training from September 9 to 12. Looker later rejoined 615 Squadron at Croydon and went with it to France on November 15 1939. He shared in the destruction of a Hs 126 on May 15 1940, was then himself hit by flak, baled out and landed on the battlefield at Waterloo. With injuries to his left leg, Looker was sent to Brussels and then back to England. On June 13 Looker was at Shenley Military Hospital and shortly to proceed on sick leave. He rejoined 615 at Kenley from No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on July 8, for ground duties until the next Medical Board. On July 17 Looker was appointed Officer i/c Kenley Sector Training Flight, which was formed to complete training of new pilots posted direct to Kenley from an FTS course. Looker was examined by a Medical Board on July 27 and pronounced fit to return to duty. On August 18 Looker’s Hurricane, L 1592, was severely damaged by Bf 109s over Sevenoaks. Whilst attempting a forced-landing at Croydon, he was fired on by ground defences and nosed over on landing, suffering severe concussion. The aerodrome was about to be attacked by the Luftwaffe and personnel were in shelters. A corporal saw the Hurricane in the middle of the airfield, took a utility and drove out and dragged Looker out of his cockpit by his parachute harness, then took him to a shelter. That Hurricane, L 1592 can be seen today in the Science Museum, London. Looker spent some time in hospital and returned to 615 Squadron for duty on September 30. He was posted away to 607 Squadron at Turnhouse on October 9, to await an instructor posting. He was posted from 607 to 5 FTS, Sealand on November 1 1940, presumably for an instructor’s course. He went to Canada in December 1940, as a staff pilot at a training school. Looker was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1995.

JOHN LONSDALE PO

Pilot

Looker was educated at Eton and in the 1930s he took part in winter sports. He was a member of the British four-man bobsleigh team that won the World Championship in 1937 and 1938.

March 13 1942. He was held in Stalag Luft 3, took part in the Great Escape and was recaptured (PoW No 291). He was freed in late April 1945. On September 22 1945 he went to Andrews Field for a flying refresher course and was posted to 303 Squadron there on November 29. Lokuciewski commanded the squadron from February 1 to December 11 1946, when it was disbanded in Germany. He returned to Poland in 1947 and was later imprisoned for five years. He rejoined the PAF in 1957, was Polish Military Attaché in London from 1969 to 1972 and he retired in 1974. Lokuciewski died in 1990.

81682

FO

3 Squadron

Lonsdale, of Stockton-on-Tees, joined 608 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand (808418). About May 1939 he remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot and began flying training. Called up on August 24 1939, Lonsdale completed his training, was commissioned in late June 1940 and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 1. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 3 Squadron at Wick on July 15. Lonsdale flew his first operational sortie on the 24th, a scramble. His second sortie came next day, when he and Flying Officer D A E Jones were scrambled and shared in the destruction of a He 111 off Kinnaird Head. On October 1 Lonsdale made a forced-landing near Chryston, Lanarkshire, in Hurricane P3261, because of a fuel shortage. The aircraft was a write-off but Lonsdale was unhurt. He assumed command of ‘A’ Flight of 3 Squadron on October 21. Lonsdale was killed on November 26 1942, as a Flight Lieutenant and still with 3 Squadron, aged 28. He is buried in Durham Road Cemetery, Stockton-on-Tees. PO 29.6.40 FO 29.6.41 FL 29.6.42

APO (AAF) 4.3.39 PO (AAF) 24.7.39 PO 24.8.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

ROBERT HENRY LONSDALE 919410

Sgt

Pilot

Canadian

46, 242 and 501 Squadrons

MALCOLM JOHN LOUDON 37293

Lonsdale was born in British Columbia. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on November 25 1935, as a pupil pilot.

FL

Pilot

British

141 Squadron Loudon was born in Sao Paolo, Brazil on December 6 1915. He joined the RAF on a short service commission in July 1935. Loudon was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham on September 22 and with training completed he joined 23 Squadron at Northolt on August 5 1936.

With training completed in November 1936, Lonsdale joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge. He was a member of the squadron display team. On November 30 1939 he resigned his commission. He joined the RAFVR in late March or early April 1940, as a Sergeant. He joined 46 Squadron at Digby on April 13 1940. Lonsdale sailed for Norway on May 14 in HMS Glorious and returned in her to Scapa Flow, after the landing ground had been found to be unsuitable. A second try was made and on May 26 ten Hurricanes took off for Skaanland from the carrier. Two crashed on landing because of the soft ground and the remainder were diverted to Bardufoss. When the squadron was withdrawn on June 7, Lonsdale did not fly a Hurricane on to the deck of HMS Glorious but returned to Scapa Flow by ship. The carrier was sunk by the German battleships Scharnhorst and Gneisenau on the 8th and only two of 46 Squadron’s pilots survived, the CO, Squadron Leader KBB Cross and Flight Lieutenant P G Jameson. On July 20 1940 Lonsdale was posted to 242 Squadron at Coltishall. He claimed a He 111 destroyed on August 30 and a Do 17 on September 9. In the latter engagement, Lonsdale’s aircraft was hit by return fire and he baled out, unhurt, landing in the grounds of a girls’ school at Caterham. The Hurricane, P 2831, crashed at Ninehams Road, Kenley. The last reference to Lonsdale in the 242 ORB was made on October 12 1940. Lonsdale joined 501 Squadron at Kenley on October 17. On his first flight with the squadron, on the 19th, he made a forced-landing at Biggin Hill, in Hurricane V 6723. His last flight with 501 was made on October 30, an operational sortie, and he was probably

He was detached from 23 to Sutton Bridge on January 9 1939, for an Air Firing Instructor’s Course. Loudon rejoined 23 on March 18. He was posted away to the recently-reformed 141 Squadron at Turnhouse on October 4 1939. Loudon was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on November 29 and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant. The squadron flew south to West Malling on July 12 1940. Shortly after 09.00 hrs on the 19th twelve Defiants of 141 moved forward to Hawkinge. At 12.23 hrs they were ordered to carry out an offensive patrol 20 miles S of Folkestone. Three were left with engine trouble. During the patrol, the nine Defiants were surprised by a force of Bf 109s of III/JG 51. Loudon’s aircraft, L 7001, was badly damaged. He ordered his gunner to bale out and he was rescued from the sea. Loudon crashed near Hawkinge, after his engine failed. He was admitted to Canterbury Hospital, with a dislocated shoulder. Loudon returned to the squadron from hospital on August 16 1940. He was posted to No 1 FTS, Netheravon on the 30th, as an instructor. In early April 1941 Loudon was posted to 242 Squadron at Martlesham Heath, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. On July 4, on a bomber-escort operation to Bethune, he shot down a Bf 109. He left 242 on July 23 to take command of 603 Squadron at Hornchurch. In October 1941 Loudon was sent to the Middle East, ostensibly for three weeks, to

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He was 26 and is buried near home, in Portrush Cemetery, Co Antrim. Lovell had a brother, Flight Lieutenant S J Lovell, who died on January 29 1944, aged 27. He was a pilot serving with 183 Squadron. He is buried in Brest Cemetery, France.

brief Desert Air Force squadrons on current Fighter Command tactics. He remained out there and was given command of a Wing. He was awarded the DFC (26.12.41). Loudon later went on to the staff of HQ Desert Air Force. In January 1944 he was appointed Wing Leader 324 Wing in Italy. Soon afterwards he was shot down on a fighter sweep N of Rome and baled out. He dislocated both shoulders on landing and was captured. At some time Loudon was held in Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 3577). Freed in May 1945, Loudon was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Wing Commander. He died in December 1997.

APO 9.1.38 PO 25.10.38 FO 25.5.40 FL 25.5.41 SL 1.6.42

TERENCE GUNION LOVELL GREGG 29244

SL

Pilot

ANTHONY DESMOND JOSEPH LOVELL FO

Pilot

British

87 Squadron

The son of a doctor, Lovell Gregg was born in Wanganui on September 19 1912 and educated at Nelson College. A brilliant scholar, he intended to enter Otago University to study medicine but was held back because of his youth. He took flying lessons and at the age of 17 he became the youngest qualified pilot in Australasia.

APO 16.9.35 PO 16.9.36 FO 16.6.38 FL 16.6.40 SL 1.9.41 WC 1.7.43

40402

New Zealander

1 Squadron

Lovell was born in Ceylon on August 9 1919 and educated at Ampleforth College.

He applied for a short service commission in the RAF in July 1930 but was considered ‘too weak’ and advised to take up rugby. Lovell Gregg travelled to England at his own expense in October 1930 and successfully applied. He went to the RAF Depot, Uxbridge on March 13 1931 and two weeks later was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand. With training completed, he joined 41 Squadron at Northolt on

He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 25 1937, as a pupil pilot. He moved on to 6 FTS, Netheravon on January 6 1938. In late 1938 Lovell joined 41 Squadron at Catterick. He went to a parachute course at Manston in March 1939. He was attached to SHQ Catterick from 41 Squadron on July 22 1939, for Ops duties. He did not rejoin 41 until November 20 1939. Lovell shared in the destruction of a He111 E of Dover on May 31 1940 and on June 1 he shared another over Dunkirk. On July 8 he shared a Ju 88 SE of Scarborough. In combat off Dover on the 28th he was attacked by Major Mölders of JG 51 and crashed on landing at Manston. He was admitted to Margate Hospital, wounded in the thigh. His next sortie was made on August 4. On the 15th Lovell claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and probably another. He was shot down over the Thames Estuary on September 5 and baled out, unhurt. His Spitfire, R 6885, crashed and burned out in Kimberley Road, South Benfleet. On the 5th Lovell was appointed Temporary ‘B’ Flight Commander, on the 6th he destroyed a Bf 109, on the 15th destroyed another and probably a second and on the 30th he damaged a Do 17. Lovell was confirmed in his appointment on September 29 and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on October 1. He damaged a Bf 109 on October 1, destroyed another on the 20th, damaged another on the 30th, destroyed another on November 17 and destroyed one and shared another on the 27th. Lovell was awarded the DFC (26.11.40). He damaged a He 111 on January 22 1941, destroyed a Ju 88 on March 30 and damaged another He 111 on April 1. Tour-expired, Lovell was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on May 23, as an instructor. In mid-June 1941 he went to Catterick as Operations Room Controller. In October Lovell was given command of 145 Squadron at Catterick. On November 16 he destroyed a Ju 88 and on January 19 1942 he shot down another. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (10.2.42). In February the squadron was posted to the Middle East, arriving at Helwan in April. Lovell was posted to HQ Middle East in May 1942, went to 252 Wing, as a Controller, and then to the 13 Sector Operations Room. On July 21 1942 he flew to Malta, to join 603 Squadron. On the 23rd he damaged two Ju 88s, on the 26th he damaged a Bf 109 and a Mc 202 and on the 28th he shared a Ju 88. On August 2 1942 603 Squadron was temporarily disbanded and Lovell and other pilots joined 1435 Flight, which was then renamed 1435 Squadron and Lovell was given command of the new unit. On August 13 1942 he destroyed a Ju 87 and a SM 84, on the 14th he shared a Ju 87, on October 1 damaged a Re 2001, on the 11th damaged a Bf 109, on the 12th destroyed a Ju 88, on the 17th damaged a Ju 88 and on the 26th damaged a Bf 109. Lovell was awarded the DSO (3.11.42). On December 7 he destroyed a Ju 88 and on the 17th a SM 79 on the ground. In early 1943 Lovell was rested and went to controller duties at 8 Sector Operations Room in Malta. He was promoted to Acting Wing Commander on March 31 1943, to lead the Malta Spitfire Wing. Lovell came off operations again and did staff jobs until December 1943, when he was made Wing Leader, 322 Wing. He took the unit to Corsica in March 1944, to operate over Northwest Italy and Southern France. On May 3 1944 he destroyed a FW 190 and damaged another, on May 15 destroyed a Bf 109 and on June 15 destroyed a Fiat G55. Lovell was posted away on August 14 to No 1 Mobile Operations Room, MAF. In November 1944 he was made Wing Leader, 244 Wing in Italy but in December he was posted to 71 OTU, Ismailia, as CFI. He was awarded a Bar to the DSO (23.2.45) and the DFC (US) (14.11.44). Lovell returned to the UK in June 1945 and was killed on August 17, when he crashed into a field adjoining Old Sarum aerodrome. He did two slow rolls after taking off in a Spitfire and went into the ground.

March 8 1932. Lovell Gregg went to CFS, Wittering for an instructor’s course on September 25 1932 but on February 28 1933 he was posted to 30 Squadron, operating in Wapitis from Mosul, Iraq. He returned to the UK in February 1935 and after a Floatplane Course at Calshot, he returned to CFS, Upavon, for another instructor’s course. In February 1936 Lovell Gregg was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham, on the instructing staff. He was granted a medium commission on March 13 1936. On September 16 1938 he went on Flying Examination Officer duties at HQ 26 Group at Hendon. Shortly after the outbreak of war, Lovell Gregg went to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth, as an instructor. On December 21 1939 he went on Operations Room duties at RAF Finningley, moving in early January 1940 to the Operations Room at HQ 5 Group. Lovell Gregg was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 26 1940 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 87 Squadron at Church Fenton on June 15, as a supernumerary. He took command on July 12. Aware of his lack of operational experience, he allowed the Flight Commanders to lead the squadron until he felt able to do so. On August 15 1940 the squadron was scrambled at 17.30 hrs to intercept forty Ju 87s, escorted by twenty Bf 110s and sixty Bf 109s. Lovell Gregg led the squadron out of the sun in line-astern, straight at the Bf 110s. His Hurricane was hit and caught fire. He came down from 15,000 feet, apparently under control and heading for Warmwell. Eye-witnesses said that the pilot appeared to change his mind and he circled the Abbotsbury area, skimmed low across a wood and a ploughed field and crashed in a copse, striking a large oak tree. Lovell Gregg was thrown clear but was already dead when reached. He is buried in Holy Trinity churchyard, Warmwell. PO 13.3.31 FO 11.10.32 FL 30.12.36 SL 1.1.40

JOHN ERIC LOVERSEED 907964

Sgt

Pilot

British

501 Squadron

Loverseed was born on December 4 1910, son of J F Loverseed, Liberal MP for Sudbury 1923/24. The son was educated at Sudbury Grammar School. He joined the RAF on a short service commission in early 1929. Loverseed trained at 3 FTS, South Cerney. With the course completed, he joined 2 (Army-Cooperation) Squadron at Manston on April 1 1930. Loverseed went to the Middle East and joined 208 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Heliopolis on March 10 1931. He moved to 14 Squadron at Ramleh, Jordan on March 15 1933, a bomber unit with Fairy Gordons. Loverseed returned to the UK in December 1933 and on the 31st he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, as a supernumerary. With his commission term expired, he went on to the RAFO in April 1934. Loverseed was commissioned in the Spanish Republican Air Force in December 1936. Wounded in January 1937 and released in February. He enlisted in the RAFVR on November 23 1939, as an Airman Pilot. He did a refresher course and was posted to ‘J’ Flight of No 1 AACU, Farnborough. The unit moved to Penrhos on February 16 1940. Loverseed was posted away to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on May 20, for onward posting to France. Next day he was attached to 501 Squadron in France. After being injured in a flying accident on the 30th, he was evacuated to a hospital in England.

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WALTER LOWTHER

He rejoined 501 Squadron, then at Middle Wallop, on July 19 and flew six operational sorties before being posted back to No 1 AACU on August 19 1940, this time in ‘C’ Flight. Loverseed served with various flights of No 1 AACU and with 1608 Flight, when this was formed from No 1 AACU on October 1 1942. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.43), as a Warrant Officer. He served with it until his discharge from the RAF in April 1943, when he was elected as MP for Eddisbury (Cheshire): representing Common Wealth. He lost this seat in the 1945 General Election standing for the Labour Party. He died in 1962.

1050690

AC

Radar Operator

British

219 Squadron

Lowther joined the RAFVR about June 1940. He volunteered for aircrew and was sent on a short radar course, after which he joined 219 Squadron in July/August. He flew his first and only sortie with 219 on September 2 1940, with Sergeant T Birkett, pilot, and Sergeant C E P Castle, air gunner. No further service details traced.

PO 13.4.29 FO 13.10.30 FO (RAF0) 13.4 34

REGINALD ERIC LOVETT 37543

FL

Pilot

British

73 Squadron Lovett was born in Hendon in 1913 and educated at Christ’s College, Finchley.

WILFRED WILLIAM LOXTON

He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on November 25 1935, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose on February 8 1936 and with training completed, he joined 66 Squadron at Duxford on August 16. Lovett was posted from 66 to 73 Squadron at Digby on August 4 1939. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant before the squadron went to France on September 9 1939. He shot down a French Potez 63 in error for a Do 17 on December 18 and the crew of two were killed. On March 22 1940 he destroyed a Bf 109, on the 26th a Do 17 and another enemy aircraft and on April 21 a Bf 110. Lovett damaged a Do 17 on May 10 and was then himself shot down and unable to bale out and crashlanded, badly burned. Lovett was evacuated to Cosham Hospital in England. After being discharged, he was employed, in early June 1940, as an Assistant Adjutant at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, pending a Medical Board. He was awarded the DFC (16.7.40) and was non-effective sick until July 22. On the 23rd Lovett rejoined 73, then at Church Fenton, and re assumed command of ‘A’ Flight. On August 15 he claimed a Ju 88 destroyed and probably another. In combat over Burnham on September 5, Lovett was shot down, in Hurricane P 3204, and baled out, unhurt. Two days later he was shot down and killed in combat. His Hurricane, P 3234, crashed on Fritze Farm, Stock, near Billericay. Lovett was 26 and is buried in Hendon Cemetery.

36032

SL

Pilot

British

25 Squadron

Born on January 20 1909, Loxton was educated at the British Boys’ School, Melton Mowbray. He joined the RAF on January 20 1925, as an Aircraft Apprentice (365878) and passed out in December 1927, as a Rigger. He applied for pilot training, was duly selected and began his ab initio course at 5 FTS, Sealand in April 1930. With training completed, Loxton joined 32 Squadron at Kenley in February 1931, as a Sergeant-Pilot. He was granted a Permanent Commission in April 1935 and posted to 43 Squadron at Tangmere on July 14. He moved to 822 (Fleet Spotter-Reconnaissance) Squadron on January 21 1936, based at Manston and on the carrier HMS Furious. On January 28 1939 Loxton was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand, as an instructor. On May 20 1940 he was posted from No 1 FTS to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge for a refresher/conversion course and on June 5 he went to 151 Squadron, as a supernumerary. Loxton took command of 25 Squadron at North Weald on June 13. On September 3 his Blenheim was attacked in daylight in error, by a Hurricane of 46 Squadron, flown by Flight Lieutenant A C Rabagliati. Loxton returned to North Weald, damaged but with no casualties. On September 24 1940 he was posted to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth, as an instructor. On November 19 he was posted from 15 FTS to 33 FTS, Carbury, Canada, for flying training duties. Loxton returned to the UK in September 1943, was awarded the AFC (1.1.45) and retired from the RAF on May 31 1957, as a Wing Commander. PO 30.4.35 FO 30.10.36 FL 30.10.38 SL 1.6.40 WC 1.12.41 WC 1.10.46

APO 20.1.36 PO 25.11.36 FO 25.5.38 FL 25.5.40

ROBIN MORTON McTAGGART DELIGHT LUCAS 42853

JOSEPH LOWE 541411

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

British

141 Squadron

He went to 3 ITW, Hastings on October 22 1939 and he was commissioned next day. Lucas moved on to 6 FTS, Little Rissington for No 16 Course, which ran from November 7 1939. However, for some reason, he was transferred to No 19 Course, which did not end until August 3 1940. Lucas arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 3 and after converting to Defiants, he joined 141 Squadron at Prestwick on August 19. Lucas was with the squadron until June 17 1941. He went to 410 (RCAF) Squadron on July 10, then forming at Ayr. In mid-January 1942 Lucas was posted to 61 OTU, East Fortune and was later with 132 OTU there. In the second half of 1943 he was at 8 OTU, Dyce and he went to 6(P) AFU, Little Rissington on November 30, as an instructor. Lucas was posted to a staff job at Air Ministry on November 14 1944. He went to India in May 1945 and returned to the UK, for release, in February 1946. He died in September 2011.

PHILIP ANTHONY LOWETH Pilot

British

Lucas joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 14 1939 at 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury.

He was awarded the DFM (22.9.42), as a Flight Sergeant with 218 Squadron, operating in Stirlings from Downham Market, Norfolk. He was a member of the Guinea Pig Club, having undergone plastic surgery at the Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead. Lowe died in 1973.

PO

Pilot

236 Squadron

Lowe joined the RAF in June 1937, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and he was with 236 Squadron at Middle Wallop in June 1940.

42242

PO

249 Squadron APO 23.10.39 PO 3.8.40 FO 3.8.41 FL 3.8.42 FL 1.9.45

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 1 1939. Loweth probably began his intermediate and advanced course at 11 FTS, Shawbury on July 8 1939 but something hindered his progress and he did not complete training until May 1940.

SIDNEY EDWARD LUCAS 171647

Loweth then joined 249 Squadron at Church Fenton on May 16, direct from 11 FTS. His last sortie with 249 was made on September 3 1940, a patrol. He was not a casualty but he was taken off flying duties on September 20, still with 249 Squadron. No further service details traced. Loweth was released from the RAF in 1950, as a Flight Lieutenant.

Sgt

Pilot

British

32 and 257 Squadrons

Lucas joined the RAFVR about November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742462). He was called up on September 1 1939 and completed his flying training at 8 FTS, on No 20 Course, which ran from June 10 to August 31 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 31 and after converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 32 Squadron at Acklington on September 21. Lucas moved to 257 Squadron at North Weald on October 15.

APO 24.6.39 PO 11.5.40 FO 11.5.41 FL 11.5.42 FL 1.9.45

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Lumsden went to No 1 (Coastal) OTU at Silloth, converted to Blenheims and then joined 248 Squadron on October 5 1940. He later served with 53 Squadron at Bircham Newton, in Hudsons. He was discharged from the RAF in 1942. Lumsden died in Scotland on May 29 2012.

Two days later he became lost in poor visibility and made a forced-landing at Colliers End, near Ware, in Hurricane V 6604. He claimed a CR 42 destroyed during the raid by the Italians on November 11 and a Bf 109 damaged in an earlier sortie. Lucas was posted away to 2 CFS, Cranwell, possibly for an instructor’s course, on December 29 1940. Commissioned in February 1944, Lucas was awarded the DFC (8.8.44), as a Pilot Officer with 149 Squadron, operating in Stirlings from Methwold, Norfolk. One night in June 1944 Lucas was captain of an aircraft detailed for a mine-laying operation. When nearing the target, the aircraft was illuminated in a cone of searchlights and came under heavy anti-aircraft fire. Lucas flew on and released his mines in the designated area. The aircraft was hit in many places and the flight engineer seriously wounded. In order to escape the barrage, Lucas dived, almost to sea level. As the course was set for home, the engineer asked to return to his instrument panel but collapsed immediately, the crew only then becoming aware of the extent of his injuries. Eventually Lucas reached an airfield. On landing, the brake pressure failed, the aircraft overshot the runway, crashed and caught fire. The petrol tanks exploded and Lucas was hurled backwards for some distance. He quickly recovered and assisted in rescuing the wounded engineer from the burning aircraft. Lucas was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flying Officer.

JOHN WILFRED LUND 74334

Pilot

Polish

British

611 and 92 Squadrons

In October 1938 Lund went to Oriel College, Oxford, where he read History. He was a member of the University Air Squadron and joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754283). Called up on November 18 1939, Lund was posted to RAF College FTS, Cranwell on January 1 1940. With the course completed, he was sent to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum on June 2. Lund went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 10th and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 611 Squadron at Digby on the 23rd. On July 2 Lund shared in the destruction of a Do 17 and shared another on August 21. He probably destroyed a Bf 110 on September 11 and probably destroyed a Do 17 on the 15th. He was posted to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill on October 2 1940 and joined it on the 3rd. Lund probably destroyed a Bf 110 on the 5th, damaged a Bf 109 on the 12th and damaged a Ju 88 on the 14th. He was shot down by Bf 109s on the 15th and crashed into the sea off Bee Ness Jetty, Kent Reach, in Spitfire R 6642. Lund was rescued from the Medway by HMS Nysan. He damaged a Bf 109 on December 1 1940. Lund was killed on October 2 1941, as a Flight Lieutenant with 92 Squadron. He was leader of a section of three Spitfires which had carried out a low-level Rhubarb operation over Northern France. Returning across the Channel, they were attacked and all three were shot down, Lund’s aircraft going down in flames. He was reported ‘Missing’. Lund was 22. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 29.

KAZIMIERZ LUKASZEWICZ FO

Pilot

Lund was born on May 6 1919 at Norton, Yorkshire, the son of a Methodist minister. He was educated at Kingswood School, near Bath.

PO 9.2.44 FO 9.8.44

76761

PO

501 Squadrons

Lukaszewicz was in the Polish Air Force before the war. After Poland fell, he made his way to England and was commissioned in the RAFVR at RAF Eastchurch in January 1940. He was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool from June 1 1940. Lukaszewicz was probably posted from there to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum, for testing and grading. He went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 22, and after converting to Hurricanes Lukaszewicz joined 501 Squadron at Gravesend on August 7. On the 12th he was reported ‘Missing’, following a combat with enemy fighters W of Ramsgate, in Hurricane P 3803. Lukaszewicz was 27 and he is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt. He was awarded the KW (1.2.41).

PO 18.11.39 FO 26.11.40

HAROLD STEWART LUSK 72539

FO

Pilot

New Zealander

25 Squadron

Born in Auckland on August 7 1918, Lusk was educated at King’s School and King’s College. In 1937 he went to the UK to study at Merton College, Oxford. He joined the University Air Squadron in 1938 and was commissioned in the RAFVR in January 1939.

DUGALD THOMAS MOORE LUMSDEN 33545

PO

Pilot

British

236 Squadron

Called up on September 9 1939, Lusk was posted to RAF College FTS, Cranwell, where he trained on Oxfords. At the end of the course he was posted to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum, for No 7 Course, which ran from May 20 to June 22 1940. Lusk then went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 23rd, converted to Blenheims and joined 25 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on July 6. He flew his first operational sortie on the 13th, a convoy patrol. Lusk served with the squadron until August 1941, when he was posted to RAF Valley, as Senior Flying Control Officer. After an airfield control course at Prestwick, he returned to Valley, as Airfield Controller. In February 1943 Lusk joined 285 Squadron at Woodvale, an anti-aircraft co-operation unit. In December he took command of 291 Squadron at Hutton Cranswick, on similar duties. On January 1 1944 Lusk transferred to the RNZAF and at the end of the year he left 291 Squadron to resume his studies at Oxford, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. After qualifying in late 1945, Lusk returned to the RNZAF and was repatriated to New Zealand, disembarking on January 10 1946. He went on to the Reserve soon afterwards and joined a law firm in Auckland. Lusk was appointed a QC on October 23 1973. He died on April 11 2009 at Waikanae.

Lumsden was born on June 27 1920 and educated at Deytheur Grammar School, Llansaintffraid, Montgomeryshire. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1939, as a Flight Cadet. After the outbreak of war, cadets, who had not completed their courses, were enlisted in the regular RAF on September 7 1939, as Airmen u/t Pilots and each given an Airman number. Lumsden (581730) graduated on December 23 1939 and was granted a Permanent Commission. He joined the recently-reformed 236 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on January 4 1940. After operating with Fighter Command until early July 1940, the squadron was transferred to Coastal Command and moved to St Eval on August 8. On the 21st Lumsden was detached to Farnborough, for a short High Altitude Flying Course. In July 1941 Lumsden was posted to 2 (Coastal) OTU at Catfoss, as an instructor. Whilst there, he converted to Beaufighters and in late May 1942 returned to operations, joining 248 Squadron at Dyce. On July 11 1942 Lumsden was shot down by Bf 109s off Trondheim and captured. At some time he was held in Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 578). Freed in May 1945, Lumsden joined 254 Squadron at Chivenor in September, flying Beaufighters. He stayed on in the RAF, was made an MBE (1.6.53) and retired on May 16 1964, as a Wing Commander. He died in 1995.

PO (RAFVR) 10.1.39 PO 9.9.39 FO 10.10.40 FL 10.10.41 PO 23.12.39 FO 23.12.40 FL 23.12.41 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.7.53

KENNETH ROY LUSTY JOHN CLAPPERTON LUMSDEN 972078

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

66502

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

25 Squadron

248 Squadron Born in Sale, Cheshire on February 9 1920, Lusty was working in Manchester before the war, in the Eastern Shipping Department of a cotton manufacturer.

Born in 1919, Lumsden joined the RAFVR in September 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. After basic training at Padgate, he was posted to No 2 Electrical and Wireless School, Yatesbury for a wireless course and then to No 1 AAS, Manby for gunnery training.

He joined the RAFVR as an Airman u/t Air Gunner (966007) on September 4 1939. After call-up, he did his basic training at Padgate and then went to RAF Aldergrove on December

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He was 27 and was cremated at Woodvale Crematorium, Brighton. Lyall’s father, Lieutenant A Lyall, was killed on July 3 1916, aged 39. He was serving with the 15th Battalion of the Highland Light Infantry. He is buried in Bouzincourt Cemetery, France.

30 for a gunnery course. On February 24 1940 Lusty joined 235 Squadron at Martlesham Heath. He was posted away on May 14, to 25 Squadron at North Weald. He served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. Lusty retrained as a Radio Observer, was commissioned in May 1941 and on July 16 he joined 1453 Flight, newly-formed at Wittering and equipped with Turbinlite Havocs. On August 1 1942 Lusty was rested. He returned to operations on April 2 1943, joining 410 (RCAF) Squadron at Drem, on Beaufighters. Lusty’s pilot was posted to 406 (RCAF) Squadron at Predannack on August 25 and they went together but when the squadron became all-Canadian Lusty went to 264 Squadron at Fairwood Common on October 9 1943. After completing his tour, Lusty was sent to Staff College on July 5 1944. He was posted to 132 Squadron at Vavuyina, Ceylon on November 28 1944, as Adjutant. He moved to BHQ, Colombo on June 23 1945, as Senior Admin Officer. Lusty returned to the UK and was released from the RAF on January 21 1946, as a Squadron Leader. He died on March 20 2009.

PO 19.6.40

JAMES LYNCH 910937

British

PO

65 Squadron

PO 10.8.40 FO 10.8.41 FL 10.8.42

ANTONI LYSEK

APO 21.12.36 PO 12.10.37 FO 12.7.39 FL 3.9.40

P 1911

Sgt

ARCHIBALD LYALL Pilot

British

With training completed, he arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 10. He was commissioned on that day. He converted to Spitfires and then joined 65 Squadron at Turnhouse on September 2. Lyons remained with the squadron until July 1941, when he moved to 222 Squadron at Manston. When 243 Squadron was reformed on June 1 1942, Lyons joined it, as a Flight Commander. He went with it to North Africa in November and took part in operations in support of the 1st Army. In 1944 Lyons joined 33 Squadron in France, as a supernumerary Flight Lieutenant. Soon afterwards he rejoined 222 Squadron, also on the Continent, as a Flight Commander. Lyons took command of 222 in January 1945. It was then at Predannack, having returned to England to convert to Tempests. He took the squadron to Holland in February and led it until being seriously wounded in April. Awarded the DFC (8.5.45), Lyons was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He was awarded the Netherlands Flying Cross (21.4.47) for gallantry, initiative and determination as commander of a squadron, in which a number of Netherlands pilots were serving during March and April 1945. Lyons died in 1992.

He took part in an attack on the Luftwaffe seaplane base at Borkum on November 28 1939. Twelve Blenheims took off from Bircham Newton, six from 25 Squadron and six from 601 Squadron. All aircraft returned safely to Debden. Three He 115s were destroyed and another three damaged. It was the first fighter attack of the war on a German target. As an Acting Flight Lieutenant, Lyall served as ‘B’ Flight Commander from February 1 to May 12 1940, when he relinquished the command and reverted to the rank of Flying Officer. He assumed command of ‘A’ Flight on August 8, again as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. He was posted away from 25 Squadron to No 7 Radio Servicing Section, Filton on September 14 1940. RSS units flew Tiger Moths and other light aircraft on prescribed courses, so that the RDF chain could be calibrated. No further service details traced. Lyall was released from the RAF in 1946.

PO

Pilot

Lyons was born in London in 1918. He joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754454). Called up on September 1, he carried out his elementary flying at 22 EFTS, Cambridge. He moved to 5 FTS, Sealand for No 48 Course, from May 27 to August 10 1940.

25 Squadron Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 12 1936, as a pupil pilot. Lyall was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on January 16 1937 and with training completed, he joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge on August 7 1937.

81047

25 Squadron

EMANUEL BARNETT LYONS

ALASTAIR McLAREN LYALL Pilot

British

He joined 25 Squadron at North Weald in late September 1940 and flew his first sortie on October 1. He was still with 25 in January 1941. He was killed on January 22 1944, as a Sergeant with 166 Squadron, operating in Lancasters from Kirmington, Lincolnshire. He was 23. Lynch is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 233.

83269 FL

Radar Operator

Lynch, of Hetton-le-Hole, Durham, joined the RAFVR in December 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He later volunteered for aircrew duties and completed his training as a radar operator.

PO 16.5.41 FO 16.5.42 FL 16.5.43

39289

AC

Pilot

Polish

302 Squadron

Born on January 25 1917, Lysek arrived in England in early 1940 and was enlisted in the RAFVR at RAF Eastchurch on February 20.

British 602 Squadron

Lyall came from Glasgow. He joined the RAFVR in about May 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740218). Lyall was one of eight RAFVR pilots who joined 11 Group Pool, Sutton Bridge on March 1 1939 for a period of continuous training with the regular RAF.

He was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool from June 1. Lysek joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield from Blackpool on August 20 1940. He was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down from September 2 to 26, where he converted to Hurricanes before rejoining 302. On December 12 1940 Lysek shared in the probable destruction of a Ju 88. He was awarded the KW (10.1.41). On March 4 1941 he damaged a Ju 88 and on March 28 he shared in destroying a Ju 88. Commissioned in May 1942, Lysek was killed on June 5, as a Pilot Officer with 302. The squadron was providing high cover in the area of Le Havre. He was lost in the sea, in Spitfire AD 257, probably through damage causing engine failure. He is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt. Lysek was awarded a Bar to the KW (20.8.42).

He joined 54 Squadron at Hornchuch from 11 Group Pool on May 31 1939 and was posted away on July 1, possibly to return to civilian life. Called up on September 1 1939, Lyall completed his training and joined 602 Squadron at Drem in January 1940 and flew his first operational sortie on the 29th. He was commissioned in June 1940. On September 6 Lyall damaged a Do 17 in the Hastings area, on the 7th he shared a Bf 110 and damaged a Do 17, on the 9th destroyed a Bf 109 and shared a Do 17, on the 12th damaged a Do 17, on the 15th destroyed a Do 17 and damaged another, on the 21st destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged a Do 17, on the 24th and 25th he damaged Bf 110s and on the 30th he probably destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged another. On October 29 Lyall destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged two more, on November 6 he probably destroyed two Bf 109s and on the 8th he damaged a Ju 88. Lyall was shot down over the Isle of Wight on November 28 1940. He baled out too low and was killed. His Spitfire, N 3242, crashed at Whiteley Bank, Isle of Wight.

PO 31.5.42

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M JOHN McADAM 748076

Sgt

Pilot

British

sortie on September 9 and his last one with the squadron on October 7, both night patrols. McAllister moved to 29 Squadron at Wellingore on October 20 1940 and flew his first sortie on the 29th. He was posted from 29 Squadron on July 1941. No further service details traced.

41 Squadron

Born in Gillingham, Kent on March 21 1919, McAdam was a student of engineering when he joined the RAFVR on April 28 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot.

JAMES HENRY GORDON McARTHUR 37925

He was living in Belfast when he was called to full-time service on September 1 1939. McAdam went to 4 ITW, Bexhill on October 30 and moved on to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on December 9. With the course completed, McAdam joined 41 Squadron at Catterick on June 18 1940 from 6 FTS. He probably converted to Spitfires on the squadron. On September 7 he destroyed a Do 17 and probably another Do 17 and a Bf 109. On this day he crashed at Leonard Drive, Drakes Farm, Rayleigh, after a combat over Hornchurch, in Spitfire P 9430. The aircraft burned out. McAdam was unhurt. On the 24th he was shot down during a squadron patrol off Dover, in Spitfire N 3118. McAdam baled out, was rescued from the sea and admitted to Dover Hospital. On October 9 McAdam damaged a Bf 109. He crashed at Globe Road, Hornchurch on October 12, after his engine cut on take-off. He was unhurt. On the 25th McAdam shared in the destruction of a Bf 109. He was shot down by Major Mölders on February 20 1941 over Dover, in Spitfire P 7302. He baled out but was picked up dead from the sea. McAdam is buried in Ballyharry Cemetery, Island Magee, Co Antrim.

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

23 Squadron

On the night of August 31/ September 1 1941 McAdam was aboard Havoc I AW404 on a night intruder mission to Gilze-Rijen in Holland. The aircraft was hit by flak in the vicinity of Haamstede and came down on a sandbank near Schouwen. The pilot, Flying Officer D A Thomas, baled out and was made PoW. Of the other crew, Sergeant. R S Bryer was never found and McAdam’s body was washed ashore. He was buried initially at Zeebrugge but now rests at Adagem Canadian War Cemetery, Belgium.

APO 6.7.36 PO 11.10.36 FO 11.5.38 FL 11.5.40 SL 1.9.41 WC 1.1.44

MALCOLM ROBERT MACARTHUR 70416

Radar Operator

British

FL

Pilot

British

236 Squadron

Macarthur was commissioned on September 1 1934 in Class ‘AA’ of the RAFO, which was for civilians who already held a pilot’s licence. He relinquished his commission and was granted one in the RAFVR in September 1938. He was called up on September 9 1939.

PATRICK JOHN McALLISTER AC

238 and 609 Squadrons

McArthur was posted to 9 FTS, Thornaby on July 18 and after completing his training, he joined the Station Flight at Aldergrove on January 14 1937. He went to the Experimental Section at the RAE, Farnborough on October 1 1938, as a test pilot. He was at 7 OTU, Hawarden from July 15 to 22 1940 for a refresher course and then joined 238 Squadron at Middle Wallop on the 22nd but left on the same day, on being reposted back to the RAE. He rejoined 238 on July 27. McArthur went to 609 Squadron, also at Middle Wallop, on August 1 as ‘B’ Flight Commander. On the 8th he claimed two Ju 87s destroyed, on the 11th a Bf 110 destroyed, on the 12th a Bf 110 probably destroyed, on the 13th a Bf 109 damaged, on the 15th a Bf 110 destroyed, on the 25th another Bf 110 destroyed, on September 7 a Do 17 destroyed and a Do 17 damaged on the 15th. On September 25 McArthur destroyed two Bf 110s. On this day McArthur’s oxygen supply failed at 25,000 feet. He lost consciousness and came to in a high-speed dive and very near the ground. Regaining control, he pulled out but his ears were badly damaged. On October 6 he handed over command of his flight to John Dundas and went to hospital. McArthur lost his operational category and was not allowed to fly above 5,000 feet. He was awarded the DFC (22.10.40). His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in November 1940. On November 12 1940 McArthur was posted to HQ 10 Group and on January 20 1941 he returned to the RAE at Farnborough He was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Wing Commander. He later joined the RCAF and held the UN Korea Medal and Canadian Forces Decoration. He was killed in a flying accident at Las Vegas in May 1961.

McAdam, of Grangemouth, Stirlingshire, joined the RAF in April 1935, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. It appears that he served as an Air Gunner with 64 Squadron and, when that squadron exchanged Blenheims for Spitfires, transferred to 23 Squadron. He was with 23 at Collyweston in June 1940.

1005245

Pilot British

McArthur was born in Tynemouth on February 12 1913. A civil pilot in the 1930s, he held the London-Baghdad record. He joined the RAF on May 12 1936 on a short service commission and began his ab initio course.

WILLIAM DAVID McADAM 519802

FL

23 and 29 Sqdns

McAllister joined the RAFVR about June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. He volunteered for aircrew duties and went on a short radar course.

Macarthur completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 41 Course, which ran from October 9 to December 9 1939, for advanced training only. He joined 236 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on December 16.

He joined 23 Squadron at Collyweston, on July 21 1940. He flew his first operational

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

MacCaw joined 2 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Hawkinge on May 1 1939. He went to France with it on September 27.He was posted from 2 Squadron to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on January 15 1940, as non effective sick. MacCaw joined 238 Squadron, when it was reformed at Tangmere on May 16 1940. On July 11 he shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 of 9/ZG 76 which made a forced-landing at Grange Heath, near Lulworth. On August 8 MacCaw was shot down in combat over convoy Peewit, S of the Isle of Wight. He crashed into the Channel, in Hurricane P 3167. MacCaw’s body was recovered by the Germans. He is buried in Sennerville-sur-Fécamp churchyard in France.

He was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on July 21 1940, to form the new ‘C’ Flight, which became operational on September 29. Macarthur was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on October 26 1940. He was awarded the DFC (25.4.41). He was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Group Captain. PO (RAFO) 1.9.34 FO (RAFO) 1.3.36 FO (RAFVR) 23.9.38 FO 9.9.39 FL 9.9.40 SL 1.5.43 WC 5.10.44

THOMAS ANDREW McCANN 116980

Sgt

Pilot

British

245 and 601 Squadrons PO 4.6.38 FO 4.9.38

McCann, of Co Down, joined the RAFVR about January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742780). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and apparently he joined 245 Squadron at Aldergrove in August 1940.

ROBERT IAN McCHESNEY 62434

JAMES PATRICK McCARTHY Wop/AG

British

235 Squadron

McCarthy joined the RAF in July 1937, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Wireless Operator Air Gunner. With training completed, he probably joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton in June 1940 but he was certainly on it by July 15. He flew operational sorties on July 24 and 31. McCarthy was in the flight of 235 Squadron that was posted to Aldergrove on November 19 1940. It combined with a flight from 236 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron. McCarthy flew his first sortie with 272 on November 24. No further service details traced.

THOMAS FRANCIS McCARTHY 751520

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

New Zealander

236 Squadron

McChesney went to the Ground Training School at Weraroa on January 15 1940 and moved on to the Air Observers’ School, Ohakea on February 9, for a Lewis gunnery course and air experience. He sailed for the UK on March 23 in the SS Akaroa. After arriving in the UK on May 9 1940 McChesney went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge to await a posting. This soon came and he was attached to 264 Squadron at Duxford and he had three flights in Defiants during the nine days he was there. On June 13 he was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down, where he converted to Blenheims. He was promoted to Sergeant and awarded his air gunner’s badge on July 5 and joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island on the 6th. With thirty-one operational flights carried out, McChesney was posted to the newlyreformed 255 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on December 4 1940. Flying with Pilot Officer Wright on May 9 1941, McChesney shot down a Ju 88, seen over Hull and chased 30 miles over the North Sea. McChesney was commissioned in June 1941. When the squadron began to convert to Beaufighters, he began retraining as a Radio Observer and on October 20 he qualified. He was posted to 488 Squadron at Church Fenton on July 26 1942. The squadron moved north to Ayr in September. On December 6 1942 some Beaufighters of 488 were taking part in an exercise at Ayr. As it was being concluded, McChesney’s aircraft collided with another and all four men in the two aircraft were killed. McChesney is buried in Ayr Cemetery.

PO 19.2.42

Sgt

Air Gunner

Born in Auckland on October 4 1913, McChesney worked as a bricklayer. At the outbreak of war he volunteered for aircrew duties and was accepted as a trainee air gunner (NZ 40194).

He was attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge from 245 on August 21. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted from 6 OTU to 601 Squadron at Exeter on September 11 1940. On the 25th McCann probably destroyed a Ju 88 over Plymouth. Commissioned in February 1942, he died in the Middle East on July 27 1942, as a Pilot Officer with 134 Squadron. McCann was 23. He is buried in El Alamein War Cemetery.

542137

Sgt

235 Squadron

McCarthy, of West Hartlepool, joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Wireless Operator /Air Gunner. Called up on September 1, he completed his training as a Wop/AG and he was with 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton in June 1940. He was killed on October 6 1942, as a Flight Sergeant with 404 (RCAF) Squadron, aged 29. McCarthy is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 75.

PO 10.6.41 FO 10.6.42

JOHN ARTHUR PETER McCLINTOCK 91064

PO

Pilot

British

615 Squadron

JOHN PATRICK McCAUL 1050678

AC 2

Radar Operator

British

219 Squadron

McClintock was at Wellington College from 1933 to 1937. He worked in London and shortly before the war he joined 615 Squadron, AAF at Kenley. He was commissioned and called up on August 24 1939.

McCaul joined the RAFVR in June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. He must have volunteered for aircrew duties and was sent on a short radar course.

He remained at Kenley when 615 moved to Croydon on September 3. He was posted away from 615 to RAF Kenley on October 3. McClintock went to 5 EFTS, Hanworth on October 21 1939 and to 3 FTS, South Cerney for No 33 Course, which ran from March 25 to July 11 1940. McClintock rejoined 615 Squadron at Kenley on July 13. He was detached to 11 Group, Uxbridge on July 15, for a 3 day course on R/T procedure. On the 18th he was detached to the Kenley Sector Training Flight for further training. He rejoined 615 on August 8. On the 12th he attacked and severely damaged a Bf 109, which landed E of Lewes, on the 14th he damaged a Do 17 and on the 16th he probably destroyed a He 111. On the 24th he shared in the destruction of a He 111 and two days later he was himself shot down, in Hurricane R 4121. McClintock baled out and landed in the sea off Sheerness, unhurt. On November 25 1940 he and Pilot Officer A J A Truran were flying in the squadron Magister, when a wing came off at 200 feet. It crashed at Sunningdale and both men were killed. They were cremated at St John’s Crematorium, Woking.

He was posted to 219 Squadron at Catterick on August 16 1940. He was one of a number of airmen in the Battle of Britain, who had been given a rudimentary course on radar and then flew operationally in Blenheims, without rank or flying badge, using the early primitive Airborne Interception equipment. On September 30 1940 McCaul was one of the crew of Blenheim L 1261, on a routine night patrol. He, the pilot, Sergeant C Goodwin, and the gunner, Sergeant G E Shepperd, were all killed when the aircraft disintegrated and crashed from an unknown cause. Smoke was reported in the aircraft prior to the crash. McCaul was 28. He is buried in Leigh Cemetery, Lancashire.

DEREK CHARLES MacCAW 36139

FO

Pilot

British

238 Squadron

Born on August 27 1915, MacCaw was at Marlborough College from 1929 to 1934 and then King’s College, Cambridge, where he read Physics, Chemistry and Geography. He was a member of the University Air Squadron before he joined the RAF in June 1938 on a direct-entry Permanent Commission, one of a few offered each year to graduates of British and Commonwealth universities. After completing his flying training in January 1939 he went to No1 School of Army Cooperation at Old Sarum.

APO 24.7.39 PO 27.5.40

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JOHN BRIAN McCOLL C 1172

PO

Pilot

WILLIAM WINDER McCONNELL

Canadian

615 and 607 Squadrons

81643

PO

Pilot

Irish

245, 32, 607 and 249 Squadrons

McColl, from Waterdown, Ontario, joined the RCAF on October 1 1939. He arrived in Britain from Canada on September 20 1940 and went to 112 (RCAF) Squadron, which served as a holding unit to supply Canadian pilots to other squadrons

Born in Belfast on June 9 1917, McConnell was educated at Belfast Technical School and in April 1934 he went to work as a clerk for the Electricity Board.

On September 21 1940 McColl and eight other Canadian officers arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. After converting to Hurricanes, McColl joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick on October 5. He and other new pilots were posted to 607 Squadron at Tangmere on the 9th. McColl moved to 73 Squadron at Castle Camps on November 5 1940 and left with it from Debden on the 9th, bound for Birkenhead, en route to the Middle East. The squadron boarded the carrier HMS Furious on the 10th and flew off to Takoradi on the 29th. The Hurricanes flew in easy stages to Heliopolis, via Lagos, Accra, Kano, Maiduguri, Khartoum, Wadi Halfa and Abu Sueir. The pilots were attached to 274 Squadron in the Western Desert in December. The squadron began to operate on its own account in January 1941. On February 4 1941 McColl shot down a Caproni 133. He was posted back to the UK on March 31 1941, joined 401 (RCAF) Squadron on June 28 and moved to 403 (RCAF) Squadron on November 12 1941. McColl was released to the RCAF Reserve on February 26 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1982.

McConnell joined the RAFVR on February 2 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742958) and began his flying training at 24 E&RFTS, Belfast. Called up on September 1 1939, he was posted to 4 ITW, Bexhill on October 29 and on December 9 he moved on to 6 FTS, Little Rissington. At the end of the course McConnell went on leave, with orders to report to OTU afterwards. After two days on leave he was directed to join 245 Squadron at Hawkinge. The CO was surprised when three new pilots arrived on June 18 1940, never having flown a Hurricane. On September 19 McConnell was attached to 32 Squadron at Acklington, on the 24th he moved to 607 Squadron at Tangmere and finally went to 249 Squadron at North Weald on October 14. On the 28th he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 near Dungeness. McConnell was jumped by a Bf 109 over the Channel on January 10 1941 and received a bullet wound in the left leg. He managed to turn towards the English coast and baled out near Dover. His Hurricane went head-on into the white cliffs. Wing Commander F V Beamish probably destroyed McConnell’s attacker. McConnell was in hospital for four months. He returned to operations on May 23 1941, when he joined No 1 Squadron at Redhill. He was with the squadron until March 28 1942, joining then the newly-reformed 174 Squadron at Manston, as a Flight Commander. Awarded the DFC (30.6.42), McConnell was given command of the squadron when the CO, Squadron Leader E F Fayolle (qv), was killed over Dieppe on August 19 1942. Awarded a Bar to the DFC (22.9.42), McConnell led the squadron until February 14 1944. On this day he was in a Typhoon on a long range sweep over France. After dropping his auxiliary tanks, there was a fuel leak from the main tanks. McConnell reached the coast but realising he could not get far, he crash-landed near the village of Percy, S of St Lo. Captured by the Germans, he was in Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 3533) and Milag N, Tarmstedt. McConnell was released on May 9 1945 and returned to England. As a means of returning to flying, he applied for an instructor’s course and was posted to 2 EFTS, Yatesbury on October 10 1945. McConnell had second thoughts and was released from the RAF on December 17 1945, as a Squadron Leader. In February 1946 he returned to the Electricity Board but on October 1st he joined Aer Lingus, as a pilot. He died in 1998.

PO 1.10.39 FO 15.1.41 FL 15.1.42

JAMES ELLIS McCOMB 90352

SL

Pilot

British

611 Squadron McComb was born in 1909 and educated at Stowe. He trained as a solicitor and worked for the Legal Department of the Lancashire County Council. In 1934 he was commissioned in 607 Squadron, AAF on February 7.

McComb transferred to 600 Squadron, AAF on March 26 1934 and then to 611 Squadron, AAF on September 25 1936. In 1938 McComb became ‘A’ Flight Commander. In March 1939, on a visit to 611, Leigh-Mallory told him that in the event of war, he would command the squadron. 611 went to summer camp at Duxford on August 4 1939 and learned on the 24th that the squadron had been embodied into the RAF for the duration. As promised, McComb was given command on September 3 1939 and promoted to Acting Squadron Leader on the 17th. Over Dunkirk on June 2 1940, McComb claimed a Bf 109 and a He 111 as probably destroyed. On August 21 he claimed a Do 17 destroyed and shared another and on September 15 he destroyed a Do 17 and probably a Bf 110. He relinquished his command and was posted away to HQ 11 Group on October 19. McComb was awarded the DFC (22.11.40). He was posted from 11 Group to HQ 9 Group on December 12 1940. He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Wing Commander. McComb died in August 1982. His portrait was drawn by Cuthbert Orde.

PO 18.6.40 FO 18.6.41 FL 18.6.42

JOHN BERNARD McCORMACK 50661 Sgt

Air

Gunner

British 25 Squadron

McCormack, of Brosna, Co Kerry, joined the RAF in October 1938, as an Aircrafthand (625013). He later retrained as an Air Gunner and was with 23 Squadron at Martlesham Heath in April 1940. During the night of September 4/5 1940, McCormack damaged an unidentified enemy aircraft. He was still with 25 Squadron in November 1940 but later went to Bomber Command and was commissioned from Flight Sergeant in May 1942. In September 1942 he was serving with 102 Squadron, operating in Halifaxes from Pocklington. His aircraft, Halifax W 7752, failed to return from an operation to Düsseldorf on the night of September 10. It went down in to the sea. McCormack’s body was never recovered. The bodies of six others of his crew were and they are buried in Dutch cemeteries. McCormack is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 70.

PO (AAF) 7.2.34 FO (AAF) 8.8.35 FL (AAF) 29.1.38 FL 26.8.39 SL 1.3.40 WC 1.9.41

JOHN McCONNELL 136316

Sgt

Pilot British

145 Squadron

PO 23.5.42

Born on May 18 1918, McConnell joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748610). Called up on September 1, he did his elementary flying at No 1 EFTS, Hatfield and went on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 20 Course, which ran from May 13 to August 17 1940.

JOHN ALEXANDER McDERMOTT NZ 40610

Sgt

Air Gunner

New Zealander

23 Squadron

Born in Gourock, Scotland on April 11 1915, McDermott was taken to New Zealand in 1923. He was educated in Wellington and worked in the Public Service there.

He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 18. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 145 Squadron at Dyce on September 11. McConnell shared in the destruction of a He 115 SE of Kinnaird Head on October 2. The aircraft had already been hit by anti-aircraft fire. On November 7 1940 McConnell was shot down by a Bf 109 of JG 2. He baled out, slightly injured, and landed at Earnley Mill. His Hurricane, P 8816, crashed at Birdham, SW of Chichester. Commissioned in October 1942, McConnell retired from the RAF on January 29 1958, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1965.

In January 1940 McDermott volunteered for aircrew duties and joined up as a trainee air gunner. He reported to the Ground Training School at Weraroa in mid-February and moved to the Air Observers’ School at Ohakea on March 10, for a Lewis gunnery course and air experience. McDermott sailed for the UK on April 26 1940 in the RMS Rangitiki. He was posted from No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 17, where he converted to Blenheims, was awarded his air gunner’s badge and promoted to Sergeant. He joined 23 Squadron at Ford on September 24 1940. In late February 1941 McDermott damaged two German bombers during a night intruder operation over Lille aerodrome. In early March, landing after a patrol, a bomb

PO 17.10.42 FO 17.4.43 FL 17.10.44 FL 17.4.46

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In September 1935 he joined the RAF on a short service commission and did his ab initio course at 2 E&RFTS, Filton. He was posted to 4 FTS, Abu Sueir on November 23 1935 and with training completed he joined 41 Squadron at Sheik Othman, Aden on April 24 1936. The squadron left for return to the UK on August 11 1936. MacDonald was appointed a Flight Commander in 1938 and in July 1939 he was posted to CFS for a course and then to 8 FTS, Montrose, as an instructor. MacDonald arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 15 1940 for a refresher course and was posted to 213 Squadron at Exeter on the 23rd, as a supernumerary. Although posted to 213, it appears that he went directly from 6 OTU to 310 Squadron at Duxford. He joined 213 Squadron from 310 on August 27. He made his first flight on the 29th, a sector recco, and he probably assumed command of the squadron on September 2. On the 28th MacDonald destroyed a Bf 110, on the 30th destroyed another, on October 17 he damaged a Bf 109 and on November 1 he destroyed a Bf 109. He was awarded the DFC (17.12.40), credited with at least three enemy aircraft destroyed. In May 1941 213 embarked on HMS Furious for the Middle East and MacDonald continued in command until October. In July 1944 he formed and then commanded 283 Wing of the Balkan Air Force in Italy, until its disbandment in May 1945. He returned to the UK and was awarded the DSO (21.8.45). In the post-war RAF MacDonald held various appointments, his last being Air Attaché in Stockholm, until he retired on July 6 1963, as a Group Captain. In 1947 he changed his name to Wilson-MacDonald. He died in March 1996.

stuck in the rack exploded, setting the aircraft on fire. The navigator was killed but McDermott and the pilot were unhurt. On May 5 1941 he shared in destroying a He 111. McDermott was posted to 116 Squadron at Hendon on March 11 1942, on radar calibration duties in Lysanders. In May he went to 1653 Conversion Unit at Polebrook for conversion to Liberators. On July 1 McDermott’s crew took off in a Liberator of 159 Squadron for India. After arrival at Fayid, Egypt, his was one of the five Liberators kept there for operations in the Middle East. The squadron operated initially from St Jean in Palestine and later Aqir. It merged with 160 Squadron in September 1942 and the combined unit moved to Shandur in Egypt. Commissioned in November 1942, McDermott returned to the UK and was posted to 21 OTU on January 8 1942, as an instructor. In mid-April he flew out to India, via Gibraltar, and rejoined 159 Squadron, then based at Digri. McDermott left the squadron on February 2 1944, returned to the UK and was later repatriated to New Zealand, arriving there on July 28. He went on the Reserve on November 22 1944. McDermott rejoined the Public Service. He died on January 2 1970. PO 19.11.42 FO 19.5.43

ALEXANDER STEWART MacDONALD 741080

Sgt

Pilot British

601 Squadron APO 6.11.35 PO 24.4.36 WC 1.10.46 GC 1.1.54

MacDonald joined the RAFVR about December 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and joined 604 Squadron at Northolt in March 1940.

FO 24.10.37

FL 24.10.39

SL 1.12.40

WC 1.3.42

HAROLD KENNEDY MacDONALD 90193

On May 10 604 provided an escort for Blenheims, detailed to bomb German transport aircraft on the beach at Wassenaar, Holland. During the action three Blenheims, piloted by MacDonald, Flying Officer J B Selway and Pilot Officer I K S Joll, shared in the destruction of three Ju 52s. MacDonald was posted to 601 Squadron at Middle Wallop on June 11 1940. He made his first flight with the squadron on the 14th, a sector recco and landings. He made his first sortie on July 6, a patrol. On August 13 MacDonald probably destroyed a Bf 110. His last flight with 601 was made on September 4 1940. There is no further mention of him in the Squadron ORB. No further service details traced.

PO

Pilot

British

British

603 Squadron MacDonald was born on February 24 1912 at Murrayfield, Edinburgh, the son of a solicitor.

He was educated at St Monica’s School, Edinburgh and then at Cargilfield Preparatory School. In 1925 he went to Loretto School and in September 1931 to Peterhouse College, Cambridge. He became a solicitor in his father’s law practice and he joined 603 Squadron, AAF in early 1935. MacDonald was called to full-time service on August 24 1939. On October 16 he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 over the sea in the Firth of Forth. MacDonald left Turnhouse for Methil on November 2 1939, on convoy liaison duty. He rejoined the squadron on the 7th. He shared He 111s on January 19 1940 and March 7, both E of Aberdeen. During a night patrol off the Firth of Forth on June 26, he saw anti-aircraft fire, flew towards it and shot down a He 111 caught in searchlights. MacDonald was detached from 603 to RAF Turnhouse on July 11 1940, for Controller duties. These attachments generally lasted two weeks. On August 27 603 Squadron went south to Hornchurch and on the 31st MacDonald claimed a Bf 109 destroyed. He led the squadron many times in September 1940. On the 6th he got a probable Bf 109, on the 7th destroyed a He 111, on the 18th destroyed a Bf 109, probably destroyed another on the 23rd and shot down another on the 27th. On September 28 1940 MacDonald was jumped by Bf 109s over Gillingham. His Spitfire was badly damaged. He dived away and headed for Hornchurch, the aircraft caught fire but MacDonald did not bale out but stayed to steer it away from a densely populated area. When flames got too close, at 400 feet, he climbed out on to the port wing and jumped. Although his parachute began to open, he was too low and he was killed. His Spitfire, L 1076, crashed on to the parade ground at Brompton Barracks, Gillingham and MacDonald’s body fell nearby. He was 28. He was cremated at Warriston Crematorium, Edinburgh. Elder brother of D K MacDonald, who was killed on August 28 with 603 Squadron.

DONALD KENNEDY MacDONALD 74679

FL Pilot

603 Squadron

Born on August 20 1918, MacDonald came from Murrayfield, Edinburgh. He was educated at Bilton Grange School and later at Marlborough College from 1932 to 1936. He went on to Peterhouse College, Cambridge, where he read Medieval and Modern Languages. He graduated in August 1939. MacDonald was a member of the University Air Squadron. He joined the RAFVR on June 14 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754333). MacDonald was called to full-time service and commissioned. He completed his training at RAF College FTS, Cranwell and joined ‘A’ Flight 603 Squadron at Turnhouse on June 8 1940. He joined ‘B’ Flight and was detached to Montrose on the 24th, to join the rest of ‘B’ Flight. Early on July 13 MacDonald made a forced-landing in Spitfire L 1024 at Montrose, after a connecting rod went through the engine crank-case. Later in the day he was attached to 417 (General Reconnaissance) Flight at St Athan, for further navigational training. He rejoined 603 on the 24th. MacDonald was killed in a surprise attack by a Bf 109 out of the sun over Dover on August 28, in Spitfire L 1046, which crashed into the sea. It was his first combat sortie from Hornchurch. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 9. Younger brother of H K MacDonald, who was killed on September 28 with 603.

PO (AAF) 4.3.35 FO (AAF) 4.9.36 FO 24.8.39 FL 12.3.40

PO 8.11.39

AENEAS RANALD DONALD MacDONELL 33120

SL

Pilot

British

64 Squadron

DUNCAN STUART MacDONALD 37451

FL Pilot British

213 Squadron

The Hereditary 22nd Chief of Glengarry, MacDonell was born in Baku, Russia on November 15 1913.

MacDonald was born on March 15 1912 at Oban. He was educated at St Anne’s School and Oban High School. In his youth his health was not good and in 1929 he went to Kenya to be an assistant coffee planter. When the plantation failed MacDonald returned to the UK.

Educated at Hurstpierpoint School, he entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1932 as a Flight Cadet. He graduated on July 28 1934, with a Permanent Commission and joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch.

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IAN NEIL MacDOUGALL

On May 17 1936 MacDonell was posted to 802 (Fleet Fighter) Squadron, based on shore at Hal Far, Malta and at sea on HMS Glorious. He left the squadron in January 1938 and went to RAF Gosport, as an instructor. MacDonell was posted to CFS, Upavon on January 22 1939 for a course, at the end of which he went to 13 FTS, Drem, as an instructor. He was posted from there to the Air Ministry on August 13 1939. On June 30 1940 MacDonell arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down. After converting to Spitfires, he was posted to 64 Squadron at Kenley on July 19, as a supernumerary. On July 25 MacDonell claimed a Ju 87 destroyed. On this day 64’s CO, Squadron Leader N C Odbert, flew his last sortie and MacDonell assumed command on the 26th, or soon after. On the 29th he destroyed a Ju 87 and a Bf 109 and damaged another Bf 109, on August 5 he destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another, on the 8th he probably destroyed two Bf 109s, on the 11th destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another and on the 15th he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another. MacDonell destroyed a Bf 109, probably another, damaged a third, shared a He 111 and damaged another on August 16. On this day he was shot down by a Bf 109 as he returned to Kenley from Hawkinge. He baled out, unhurt, landing at Possingworth Park. His Spitfire, P 9554, crashed at Blackboys, Uckfield. MacDonell destroyed a Do 17 and damaged a Ju 88 on August 18 and was awarded the DFC (6.9.40). On November 11 1940 MacDonell damaged a Bf 109 and on the 29th destroyed another, his final victory. In March 1941 MacDonell was shot down by Werner Mölders, on a sweep over France. He baled out and was captured. At some time he was in Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 473). Freed in April 1945, he received a Mention in Despatches (28.12.45), for distinguished services while a PoW. MacDonell was made a CB (1.1.64) and retired from the RAF on November 15 1964, as an Air Commodore. His portrait was drawn by Cuthbert Orde in 1940. He died on June 7 1999.

33491

Pilot

Australian

PO 21.10.39 FO 21.10.40 FL 21.10.41 SL 1.7.45 WC 1.7.51 GC 1.7.58 AC 1.7.64

236 Squadron

RALPH IAN GEORGE MacDOUGALL

Born at Ulverstone, Tasmania on August 15 1916, McDonough’s family later moved to Victoria and he completed his education at St Kevin’s College, Melbourne.

29041

CHARLES WHITE MACDOUGAL Pilot British

Pilot British

17 Squadron

MacDougall commanded 43 Squadron from August 1936 until February 4 1937, when he was posted to the Experimental Section, RAE, Farnborough, to command the Instrument, Armament and Defence Flight. From October 30 1939 MacDougall reformed and then commanded 235 Squadron at Manston. After relinquishing command of 235 in May 1940, MacDougall was briefly with 56 Squadron, as a supernumerary, before taking command of 17 Squadron at Debden on June 8 1940. He was posted away on July 18 and attached to RAF Duxford. Although posted to HQ 9 Group as a Fighter Controller on August 11, MacDougal remained at Duxford until August 19, when he left for HQ 13 Group, detached from 9 Group on temporary duty. He ceased to be attached to 13 Group on September 28 and was attached to RAF Digby from October 1, for Ops duties. This attachment ceased on October 27 and he finally went to HQ 9 Group. From 1942 to 1944 MacDougall was Station Commander at Hal Far, Malta, and Ramleh, Haifa and Ramat David, all in Palestine. He returned to the UK in 1945 and was Station Commander at RAF Andover until 1947, when he went on to the Reserve. MacDougall returned to full-time service in 1948, in the Secretarial Branch, and finally retired on August 9 1966, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. He died in 1994.

APO 13.5.39 PO 6.11.39

Sgt

SL

Born on August 8 1911, MacDougall was granted a short service commission in the RAF on March 14 1930. He carried out his flying training at 5 FTS, Sealand and then joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere on March 8 1931. He was granted a medium commission on March 14 1935.

McDonough joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 13 1939. He completed his training at 9 FTS, Hullavington, on No 11 Course, which ran from May 30 to November 6 1939. McDonough joined the newly-reformed 236 Squadron at Stradishall direct from FTS, on the 6th. During a strafing operation to France on August 1 1940, McDonough was shot down and killed in Blenheim R 2774, either by the ground defences of Querqueville aerodrome or by Oberleutnant Dullberg of III/JG 27. Both McDonough and his gunner, Sergeant F A P Head, were reported ‘Missing’. McDonough is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 9.

811002

141 Squadron

After the outbreak of war Cranwell cadets who had not completed their courses were enlisted in the regular RAF on September 7 1939, as Airmen u/t Pilots and each given an Airman number. MacDougall (581734) passed out on October 21 1939, with a Permanent Commission. He was then posted to 141 Squadron, reforming at Turnhouse. The squadron flew south to West Malling on July 12 1940. Shortly after 09.00 hrs on the 19th, twelve Defiants moved to the forward airfield at Hawkinge. At 12.23 hrs they were ordered to carry out an offensive patrol twenty miles S of Folkestone. Three were left with engine trouble. During the patrol the nine Defiants were surprised by a force of Bf 109s of III/JG 51. MacDougall’s aircraft, L 6983, was hit in the engine. He ordered his gunner, Sergeant J F Wise, to bale out. He then managed to get the aircraft back to West Malling. Wise was reported ‘Missing’ and no trace of him was ever found. MacDougall was posted to 260 Squadron at Drem on May 2 1941 and later in the month he left with it for the Middle East. He became a Flight Commander in late 1941. He shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 on April 5 1942 and he was awarded the DFC (15.5.42). He commanded 94 Squadron in the Western Desert from February to May 1942. After being posted from 94, he returned to the UK and was placed in a non-operational post. In May 1943 MacDougall was posted to Malta, where he joined 1435 Flight. In June 1943 he was given command of 185 Squadron at Krendi. On July 8 he damaged a Bf 109 and on August 20 he shared in the destruction of a Cant Z 506 B. He led 185 until January 1944, when he returned to the UK. He then commanded 131 Squadron from May to October 1944. After the war, MacDougall had a number of teaching and instructing appointments, amongst them Chief Flying Instructor at Cranwell and as a War Studies Lecturer at the US Air Force Academy in Colorado. In 1965 he was Chief Air Staff Officer at 38 Group; then he was appointed Air Defence Commander in Zambia. He was made a CBE in 1967. From 1967 to 1969 he was Air Attaché in Paris. He retired from the RAF on December 27 1969, as an Air Commodore. MacDougall died in August 1987.

BRYAN MARTIN McDONOUGH PO

British

Born on June 11 1920, MacDougall was educated at Morrison’s Academy, Crieff. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in April 1938, as a Flight Cadet.

PO 28.7.34 FO 28.1.36 FL 28.1.38 SL 1.8.39 WC 1.9.41 WC 1.10.46 GC 1.7.54 AC 1.1.60

42137

FO Pilot

111 Squadron

Macdougal, of Garston, Liverpool, was a pharmacist (MPS). He joined 611 Squadron, AAF on June 18 1936, one of the first six airmen recruits to be attested. He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot and did some flying training before being called to full-time service on August 24 1939.

PO 14.3.30 FO 14.9.31 FL 14.9.35 SL 1.10.38 WC 1.6.41 He completed his training at 9 FTS, Hullavington, on No 20 Course, which ran from June 9 to September 7 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 9 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 111 Squadron at Drem on the 29th. On December 9 1940 Macdougal was posted away from 111 for service overseas. He went to the Middle East and on January 29 1941 he flew to Malta, where he joined 261 Squadron. He destroyed a Ju 87 on March 5 1941 and was then himself shot down and killed by a Bf 109, in Hurricane V 7102. Macdougal was 24. He is buried in Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Malta.

ROY McDOUGALL 82706

PO Pilot

British

3 and 232 Squadrons

McDougall joined the RAFVR about January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742941). Called up on September 1, he completed his elementary training at 7 EFTS, Desford. He moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 19 Course, which ran from April 11 to July 24

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COLIN HAMILTON MACFIE

1940. With training completed, he was commissioned and joined 3 Squadron at Wick on July 27. McDougall was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down from August 5 to 17 1940. He converted to Hurricanes and rejoined 3 Squadron at Wick on August 20. He flew his first operational sortie on the 2nd, investigating an X-raid. McDougall joined 232 Squadron at Castletown on September 10. In February 1941 he was posted to the Middle East, to join 73 Squadron at Gazala West. On July 15 he destroyed two Ju 87s, on August 8 probably destroyed a Bf 109, on January 8 1942 probably destroyed another and on May 28 he destroyed a Ju 88. McDougall was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant.

90657

British

602 Squadron

McDowall was born in 1913 at Kirkinner, Wigtownshire. His family were millers. He was working as an engineer on Clydeside before the war. He joined 602 Squadron, AAF, as an Aircrafthand (802602). He later remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot and did some flying training before being called to full-time service on August 24 1939. McDowall completed his training and rejoined 602 in May or June 1940. During a night patrol on July 24/25 he attacked a He 111, caught in searchlights. It jettisoned two parachute mines and although his attack had no apparent result, the enemy aircraft was later reported to have crashed into the sea. On August 18 McDowall destroyed a Bf 109, on the 26th a He 111, on September 9 a Bf 109, on the 11th a Bf 110, on the 15th a Do 17 probably destroyed, on the 30th a Ju 88 destroyed and another shared, on October 27 a Ju 88 destroyed and another probably destroyed, on the 29th two Bf 109s destroyed, on the 30th a Bf 109 destroyed and on November 6 a Bf 109 destroyed and another shared. McDowall was awarded the DFM (8.10.40) and a Bar (17.12.40). Commissioned in November 1940, McDowall was posted to 245 Squadron at Aldergrove on April 15 1941, as a Flight Commander. In July he was OC ‘B’ Squadron at 52 OTU, Debden. On April 10 1942 McDowall took command of 232 Squadron, when it reformed at Atcham. He was posted away to a staff job at HQ 13 Group in September. McDowall received a Mention in Despatches (14.1.44). In July 1944 he was given command of 616 Squadron at Manston. Flying a Meteor, he destroyed a Ju 88 on the ground on April 24 1945 in Germany. He left the squadron in May 1945 and went to Rolls Royce, as a test pilot. He was released from the RAF later in the year, as a Wing Commander. He went to work for Gloster, testing Meteors being sold to foreign air forces. McDowall died in 1981. His portrait was drawn by Cuthbert Orde in October 1940.

CHARLES ALEXANDER McGAW 42414

Pilot

British

PO

Pilot

Australian

73 and 66 Squadrons

McGaw was born on November 3 1915 in Peebleshire, Scotland. He went to Australia in 1920, when the family emigrated and settled in Stanthorpe, Queensland. Educated at Scots College, Warwick, McGaw served an engineering apprenticeship in Glasgow from 1931 to 1936. On completion, he began work as a draughtsman and later worked for the Air Ministry as an inspector. On June 12 1939 McGaw began elementary flying training, as a candidate for an RAF short service commission. He was accepted and after completing his training in early April 1940, he joined 46 Squadron at Gravesend on April 15 direct from FTS. On April 28 McGaw went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 73 Squadron in France on May 13. McGaw destroyed a Bf 109 on September 15. He served with 73 until October 23 1940, when it began preparations to go to the Middle East. He then joined 66 Squadron at Gravesend on the 25th. On December 8 1940 McGaw was posted to CFS, Cranwell, for an instructors’ course. He instructed until early 1943, then converted to twins and in July was posted to 18 Squadron, a Boston unit operating in the Mediterranean. The squadron moved to Sicily in August 1943. On October 1 McGaw was captain of one of eight aircraft detailed to attack a bridge in Italy. They took off from Gerbini but bad weather forced six of the aircraft to turn back, including McGaw’s. On the way, his aircraft’s engines failed and he ditched in the sea near Messina. The Boston broke up on impact. Only one of the crew was picked up. McGaw is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 6, Column 1.

AUBREY McFADDEN PO

611 and 616 Squadrons

APO (AAF) 12.3.39 PO 26.8.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 FL 1.12.42 SL 1.7.44 SL 1.1.52

PO 29.11.40 FO 2.5.41 FL 2.5.42 SL 5.10.43

42510

British

Macfie was congratulated by the AOC for carrying out a convoy patrol in terrible visibility on February 28 1940, from which one of the three pilots involved failed to return. Over Dunkirk on June 2, Macfie destroyed a Ju 87 and on August 21 1940 he damaged a He 111 E off Spurn Head. Macfie moved to 616 Squadron at Coltishall on September 7, as ‘B’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. On the 16th he damaged a Ju 88. On March 27 1941 Macfie damaged a Bf 110, on April 24 he destroyed a Bf 109 on the ground and on June 19 he damaged a Bf 109. On a sweep over France on July 5 1941, Macfie was forced down and captured. He was awarded the DFC (8.8.41), being then credited with two enemy aircraft destroyed and three damaged. At some time Macfie was in Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 1629). He was liberated in May 1945. MacFie commanded No 1 Squadron from October 1946 to July 1947 and then 3 Squadron until November 1949. He retired from the RAF on October 18 1963, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1982.

ANDREW McDOWALL Sgt Pilot

Pilot

Born at Cheltenham on June 12 1920, Macfie joined 611 Squadron, AAF in early 1939. He was called to full-time service with the squadron on August 26. After completing his training Macfie rejoined 611 at Digby.

PO 27.7.40 FO 27.7.41 FL 27.7.42

89299

FO

73 Squadron

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 26 1939. With training completed, McFadden was at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge in April 1940.

APO 5.8.39 PO 6.4.40 FO 6.4.41 FL 6.4.42

JAMES McGIBBON After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 73 Squadron in France on May 5 1940. McFadden suffered a breakdown, following two crash-landings, after his Hurricane was damaged in action on May 11 and 14. He was made non-effective sick on May 14 and he was posted to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge. After recovery, he rejoined 73 Squadron from hospital on July 6 1940. McFadden served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain and on September 27 1940 he destroyed a Bf 110 near Weybridge. He was still with 73, when it left Debden on November 9 1940 for Birkenhead, to embark for service in the Middle East. At the beginning of April 1942 McFadden was with 258 Squadron, operating from Colombo Racecourse in Ceylon. He was killed on April 5, when Japanese carrier-based aircraft made an attack on Colombo. 258 was scrambled and destroyed four of the attacking bombers but it was then jumped by Zeros and nine of its Hurricanes were shot down, McFadden’s amongst them. He was 24 years old and is remembered on the Singapore Memorial.

84016

PO Pilot British

615 Squadron McGibbon came from Shandon, Dunbartonshire. He joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745351). Called up on September 1, he completed his elementary training at 5 EFTS, Meir and went on to 3 FTS, South Cerney for No 35 Course, which ran from May 26 1940. He was commissioned and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 31 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, McGibbon joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick on September 23. During a practice flight on the 29th, McGibbon dived into the ground from 7,000 feet, in Hurricane V 7312, from causes unknown. He was killed, aged 25. McGibbon is buried in Faslane Cemetery, Rhu, Dunbartonshire.

APO 19.8.39 PO 28.2.40 FO 23.2.41

PO 31.8.40

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KENNETH BUTTERWORTH McGLASHAN 42138

PO

Pilot

British

December 1938 for continuous training with the RAF. He joined 66 Squadron at Duxford, was commissioned in late March 1939 and posted to 46 Squadron at Digby. With war looking more likely, McGowan’s attachment, due to end in June, was extended and he was still with 46 at the outbreak of war. On November 30 1939 he moved to 610 Squadron at Wittering. Due to return to 46 in March 1940, McGowan was diverted to ferry Gladiators to Turnhouse, where they were picked up by 263 Squadron for eventual use in Norway. McGowan returned to Digby and found 46 was also destined for Norway. He and other pilots of the squadron sailed from Aberdeen to Harstad, whilst 46 embarked its Hurricanes on HMS Glorious and flew them off to Bardufoss on May 26 1940. Soon after McGowan’s arrival, the decision to evacuate Norway was made and he re-embarked on June 8 and returned to the UK, without having done any flying. Reformed at Digby on June 15 1940, the squadron supported 11 Group and joined 12 Group formations. The squadron moved south to Stapleford Tawney on September 1. McGowan was shot down on the 15th and baled out, with burns. He received skin grafts and other treatment at the Queen Victoria Hospital at East Grinstead, making him a Guinea Pig. In May 1941 McGowan was back on limited flying and was posted to Martlesham Heath, as Officer i/c Airfield Control. He later instructed at 57 OTU, Hawarden. McGowan was loaned to the RNZAF in June 1942 and based in Wellington, as Ops II, to assist in the formation of Kittyhawk squadrons and setting up Fighter Operations Control. He returned to the UK in late 1943 and was posted to CGS, Sutton Bridge for a Spitfire course at the Fighter Wing. McGowan was then given command of the Fighter Armament Practice Camp at Peterhead, later moving to 53 OTU, Kirton-in-Lindsey, to command 3 (Gunnery) Squadron there. In December 1944 McGowan was posted to Italy and joined 8 (SAAF) Wing, as a supernumerary Squadron Leader, and he flew operationally in Spitfires until the end of the war. He was then posted to 239 Wing in Italy, as Squadron Leader Admin, and returned from there to the UK for demobilisation in November 1945. McGowan later settled in New Zealand. He died in 2012.

245 Squadron

McGlashan was born in Bearsden, Dunbartonshire on August 28 1920. He was educated at Glasgow Academy and left there to take a short service commission in the RAF. He began his ab initio course at 11 E&RFTS, Perth on March 13 1939. McGlashan moved to 9 FTS, Hullavington on June 2 and with training completed, he joined the newlyformed 245 Squadron at Leconfield on November 6. The squadron flew south from Drem to Hawkinge on May 28 1940, to help cover the Dunkirk evacuation. On the 31st McGlashan was shot down by a Bf 109 near Dunkirk. He was slightly wounded and temporarily partially blinded by oil and glycol splashing into his eyes. He put his Hurricane into a dive and by the time his sight came back he was very low. He pulled out of the dive, blacked out and came to travelling very fast and low along a beach. McGlashan made a successful forced-landing and was rescued by British soldiers from some French colonial troops, who thought he was German. He walked along the beach into Dunkirk and managed to board a Thames paddle steamer. After an eventful crossing McGlashan landed late at night at Margate and was taken by squadron transport back to Hawkinge. He served with 245 throughout the Battle of Britain. On December 17 1940 McGlashan was posted to 96 Squadron, then forming at Cranage for night-fighting operations. He was with it until November 17 1941, when he wento to 60 OTU, East Fortune, as an instructor. On July 20 1942 McGlashan joined 87 Squadron at Charmy Down, as a supernumerary. He took part in ground-strafing operations during the Dieppe raid on August 19. McGlashan was posted to 536 Squadron at Predannack on September 12 1942, a Turbinlite Havoc unit. The squadron was disbanded on January 25 1943 and McGlashan then joined 264 Squadron at Warmwell. He served with 264 until June 15 1944. He was then posted to Cairo, seconded to 2 Division BOAC, to work on the opening up of Middle East air routes. McGlashan returned to the UK in January 1946 and joined No 1 Ferry Unit at Pershore. He moved to 54 OTU in June, remaining there until October 1948, when he was given command of 25 Squadron at West Malling. Awarded the AFC (8.6.50), McGlashan also received a Green Endorsement in his log book on August 21 1950. At great risk to himself, he took off in bad weather to lead another Mosquito into Manston, leading it down through cloud and enabling it to land safely. McGlashan retired from the RAF on August 29 1958, as a Squadron Leader. He emigrated with his family to Australia in 1964 and died there on July 30 2005.

PO (RAFVR) 29.3.39 PO 30.10.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.44

JOHN KESWICK ULICK BLAKE McGRATH 90967

PO

Pilot

British

601 Squadron

Born in Tonbridge, Kent on November 19 1919, McGrath was at Harrow School from 1933 to 1937.

APO 13.5.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.1.49

McGowan moved on to 2 FTS, Brize Norton for No 47 Course, which ran from April 28 to August 3 1940. He was commissioned and reposted to 611 Squadron on August 10. He was immediately attached to 7 OTU, Hawarden. After converting to Spitfires, he was posted to 64 Squadron at Leconfield. When this was found out at 611 Squadron, steps were taken to get him back but this did not happen and he joined 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill on September 12. Two days later McGowan was shot down by Bf 109s and baled out, wounded, and was admitted to Faversham Cottage Hospital. His Spitfire, R 6624, crashed at Sole Street House, near Faversham. McGowan was transferred to RAF Hospital, Halton and went to the RAF Convalescent Centre at Torquay on October 11 1940. He rejoined 92 Squadron on November 25 and was posted the next day to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth. From there he went to CFS on March 22 1941, for an instructors’ course. McGowan was killed on December 22 1944, as a Flight Lieutenant with 189 Squadron, a Lancaster bomber unit stationed at Fulbeck. His aircraft was lost without trace on an operation to Politz. He was 28 and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 202.

He joined 601 Squadron, AAF at Hendon on January 1 1939 and began his flying training. McGrath was called to full-time service on August 25 and commissioned. He was posted to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on September 7 1939, for further training. On May 5 1940 he rejoined 601 Squadron at Hendon. On May 22, when he destroyed a Bf 109 over Arras, McGrath was with ‘B’ Flight of 601, detached that day from Tangmere to operate from Manston. Over Dunkirk on the 27th, McGrath destroyed a Bf 109 and probably a second and on the 30th he destroyed a Bf 110 and probably another. On July 11 McGrath claimed a He 111 destroyed, on August 8 two Bf 109s, on the 11th he got two probable Bf 110s, on the 13th a Ju 88 destroyed and probably another, two Bf 110s destroyed and another damaged and a Bf 109 damaged, on the 14th a Do 17 and a Bf 109 destroyed and a Ju 88 damaged and on the 15th a Ju 88 destroyed and another damaged. In the early evening of August 15 McGrath was shot down and crashed near Selsey, in Hurricane V 7253. He later returned to Tangmere, injured. He was non-effective sick from August 16 and was admitted to the RAF Officers’ Hospital, Halton on November 8 1940. He did not fly again with 601 or operationally with the RAF. McGrath was awarded the DFC (27.8.40). He was posted to the operations room at RAF Exeter on February 2 1941 and moved to that at RAF Middle Wallop on July 22. McGrath went to RAF Sopley on September 22 1941, in charge of the GCI unit. He was posted to HQ Fighter Command on December 6 1943, moving in December 1944 to HQ ADGB and remained there until November 24 1945. He was released in January 1946, as a Squadron Leader. McGrath became a travel agent. He died on June 17 1981.

PO 10.8.40 FO 4.8.41 FL 4.8.42

APO 25.8.39 PO 4.5.40 FO 9.12.40 FL 9.12.41

ROY ANDREW McGOWAN

ALAN JAMES McGREGOR

73001

81919

ROBERT HENRY McGOWAN 83277

PO

Pilot

British

64 and 92 Squadrons

McGowan joined 611 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand (811095). He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot and began his flying training before being called to full-time service on August 24 1939. He was posted from 611 to 11 EFTS, Perth on October 21 to finish his elementary training.

FO

Pilot

British

46 Squadron

PO

Pilot

British

504 Squadron

McGowan joined the newly-formed RAFVR in March 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740090). He began training at 2 E&RFTS, Filton and soloed in April.

Born in Bristol on November 23 1920, McGregor went to Bristol Grammar School. He joined the RAFVR in November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742534).

At the request of Air Ministry, McGowan’s employers released him for six months from

Called up on September 1 1939, McGregor completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand, on

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probably destroyed on the 15th, a Ju 88 destroyed and a Bf 109 and two Do 17s damaged on the 27th and Bf 109s destroyed on the 30th and October 5. He was awarded the DFC (25.10.40). McGregor commanded No 1 (RCAF) Squadron from November 2 until December 14 1940, when he was posted away to Digby to form and command 2 (RCAF) Squadron, which was re-numbered 402 Squadron on March 1 1941. McGregor was promoted on April 14 1941, to lead the Canadian Wing at Digby. He came off operations on August 31 and returned to Canada but was back in London in October. He was appointed Director of Air Staff at HQ RCAF, London on December 5 and did this job until April 17 1942, when he again returned to Canada. He formed and then commanded a Wing, to give air support to the Americans in Alaska. McGregor was made an OBE (1.1.43), promoted to Group Captain and posted back to Canada in late February 1943. On April 1 he took command of Patricia Bay, from where its squadrons served in defence of the West coast of Canada. McGregor returned to England on February 23 1944, spent four months at HQ 83 Group and in mid-July was given command of 126 (RCAF) Wing. He still flew occasional sorties, one of his last being on March 28 1945, when he destroyed a locomotive. He received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.45). Said to be the oldest Canadian fighter pilot to see action in the war, McGregor left the Wing on September 27, returned to Canada and was released from the RCAF on November 27 1945. He was awarded the C de G (Fr) in 1947, the Czech Military Cross and was made a Commander of the Order of Orange-Nassau with Swords. From 1948 to 1969 McGregor was with Trans-Canada Airlines and Air Canada, becoming President of the Company. He died in Montreal on March 8 1971.

No 45 Course, which ran from December 11 1939 to June 10 1940. He was commissioned on the 18th and joined 504 Squadron at Castletown. He served with the squadron in the Battle of Britain. In late July 1941 ‘A’ Flight of 504, McGregor’s, was renumbered 81 Squadron and posted to Leconfield, where the personnel were kitted out for an unknown destination overseas. They flew to Abbotsinch in Harrows and embarked for Russia on the carrier HMS Argus, which carried crated Hurricanes. On September 1 the squadron flew off in sixes for Vaenga airfield, near Murmansk. Operations continued until mid-November, when 81’s pilots began converting Russian pilots on to Hurricanes. They left Russia on November 29, leaving aircraft and equipment behind, returning in HMS Kenya and landing at Rosyth on December 7 1941. McGregor commanded 123 Squadron in the Far East, with Spitfires and later Thunderbolts, from July 1943 until its disbandment in June 1945. He then commanded 81 Squadron briefly in July. He was awarded the DSO (19.10.45). Released from the RAF in 1946, McGregor rejoined later and retired on November 23 1976 as a Wing Commander. He died in 1997. PO 18.6.40 FO 18.6.41 FL 18.6.42 FL 1.10.52 SL 1.1.65 WC 1.1.71

ALEXANDER NOEL MacGREGOR 109895

Sgt

Pilot British

266 and 19 Squadrons

MacGregor joined 602 Squadron, AAF on January 12 1936, as a trainee air gunner (802450). He transferred to the RAFVR on September 29 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740705) and began flying at 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick.

HECTOR DOUGLAS McGREGOR 27031

Called to full-time service at the outbreak of war, MacGregor, fully trained, was posted to 4 AOS, West Freugh, as a staff pilot. He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940, converted to Spitfires, joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on the 16th and then moved to 19 Squadron at Duxford on the 28th. On October 29th he made a forced-landing at Rochford, having run out of fuel. MacGregor was posted away to 46 Squadron at Sherburn-in-Elmet on May 5 1941. Later in the month the squadron pilots and aircraft sailed in HMS Argus for Gibraltar, where they transferred to the Ark Royal and sailed into the Mediterranean. They flew off to Malta on June 6 1941. MacGregor damaged a SM 79 on the 11th. 46 Squadron was renumbered 126 Squadron at Ta Kali on July 15. MacGregor probably destroyed a Mc 200 on August 19, another on the 26th, another on September 4 and damaged a Mc 202 on November 22. He was wounded in the foot on December 23 and made a forced-landing, in Hurricane Z 5118. McGregor was commissioned in October 1941. He destroyed a Ju 88 on February 11 1942. He was posted away from 126 in March and went to 33 FIS at Salisbury, Southern Rhodesia, for an instructors’ course, after which he instructed at 28 EFTS, Mount Hampden. On February 19 1944 MacGregor sailed from Durban to the UK. He was posted to 1 TEU, Tealing, to convert to Typhoons, went to GSU, Cranfield on May 22 and then to 3 TEU, Aston Down on August 14. MacGregor was posted to the Middle East in late November 1944 and was in various units before returning to the UK on September 2 1945. He was released later in the year, as a Flight Lieutenant. MacGregor rejoined the RAFVR and instructed at 18 RFS, Fair Oaks and later 11 RFS, Perth until October 30 1952. He died in 1995 and he is buried at Inverness.

Pilot

Canadian

New Zealander

213 Squadron

McGregor was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham on April 28 and after training he joined 111 Squadron at Hornchurch on April 2 1929. He went to 407 (Fleet Fighter) Flight on HMS Courageous on January 20 1931 but moved to the Home Aircraft Depot at Henlow on August 5 1931, for a specialist engineering course. He was granted a Permanent Commission on September 1 1932. He was posted to the School of Naval Co-operation, Lee-on-Solent on July 24 1933 and then to HQ Coastal Command, Engineering Section on August 22 1934. McGregor was at Air Ministry, in the Directorate of Repair and Maintenance, from April 30 1936 until posted to Egypt in September 1938, to take command of 33 Squadron at Heliopolis. In March 1939 the squadron began policing duties at Lydda, with small detachments at strategic points. They assisted ground forces to round up armed tribesmen, who were terrorising certain areas. The tactics were successful and order was restored by June. For his leadership in the operations, McGregor was awarded the DSO and a Mention in Despatches (15.9.39). In early 1940 McGregor returned to the UK and on May 23 he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down, for a refresher course. After converting to Hurricanes, he went to 213 Squadron at Biggin Hill on the 28th, as CO designate. On the 31st he went on a patrol over Dunkirk and was shot down. He baled out, was rescued from the sea by a destroyer and put ashore at Dunkirk, eventually returning in a ship to Dover. He took command of 213 in early June. McGregor claimed a Ju 88 destroyed and another damaged on August 11 1940, a Bf 110 destroyed on the 12th and a Ju 88 damaged on the 20th. He was quoted as saying that he destroyed six enemy aircraft in the Battle of Britain, three Ju 88s, two Bf 109s and a Bf 110. He made his last flight with 213 on September 1 relinquished his command and was posted away on the 2nd. By October 21 1940 McGregor had been appointed OC Fighter Sector HQ, Aldergrove. In 1941 he commanded RAF Ballyhalbert. He received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.42). From 1942 to mid-1943 he commanded Tangmere and in June 1943 he was appointed Group Captain Ops at Mediterranean Air Command, on the staff of Air Chief Marshal Sir Arthur Tedder. In April 1944 McGregor became Allied Deputy Director of Operations, Intelligence Plans, North Africa and Italy. He took an important part in negotiations at the time of the Italian Armistice, concerning the handing over of the Italian Air Force. He was awarded the US Legion of Merit in April 1944 and was made a CBE (14.6.45). He also received two more Mentions in Despatches (14.1.44) and (1.1.45). McGregor went on to a most distinguished post-war career in the RAF. He retired on September 27 1964, as an Air Marshal, KCB. He died on April 11 1973.

GORDON ROY McGREGOR FL

Pilot

Born at Wairoa on February 15 1910, McGregor was educated at Napier Boys’ High School. He went to the UK early in 1928 and joined the RAF on a short service commission.

PO 8.10.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 1.10.43 FO (RAFVR) 31.10.47

C 936

SL

1 (RCAF) Squadron

Born in Montreal on September 26 1901, McGregor was educated at St Andrew’s College, Toronto and McGill University, Montreal. He was the winner in 1935, 1936 and 1938 of the Webster Trophy, open to non-professional airmen and awarded for airmanship and navigation. McGregor was commissioned in October 1938, serving with the RCAF Auxiliary in 115 Squadron. At the outbreak of war, pilots of the squadron and pilots of No 1 Squadron of the regular RCAF formed No 1 (RCAF) Squadron. McGregor was with this squadron when it arrived in the UK on June 20 1940, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. He flew operationally on attachment to 111 Squadron at Croydon on August 15 and 16, to gain experience. McGregor claimed a Do 17 destroyed on August 26, a Do 17 probably destroyed and another damaged on September 1, a Bf 110 damaged on the 4th, a He 111 destroyed on the 11th, another

PO 13.4.28 FO 13.10.29 FL 1.6.34 SL 1.2.38 WC 1.9.40 GC 1.9.42 GC 1.10.46 AC 1.7.53 AVM 1.7.55 AM 1.1.60

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PETER REGINALD McGREGOR 73002

FO

Pilot

British

McGugan then went to 301 FTU, Lyneham and on May 15 he flew out to North Africa, arriving at Setif two days later. He joined 255 Squadron, at La Sebala ll, Tunisia on the 28th, as a Navigator Radio. He moved with it to Sicily on August 17 and on to Italy on November 13. With his second operational tour completed, McGugan returned to the UK on April 22 1944. He was posted to 62 OTU, Ouston on May 9, as Senior Air Instructor, remaining there until June 6 1945. He stayed on in the RAF, alternating between flying duties and Signals staff appointments, including Signals 1 at HQ Fighter Command from April 1955 to October 1957. McGugan retired on May 17 1969, as a Squadron Leader. He died on April 3 1996.

46 and 66 Squadrons

McGregor joined the RAFVR in Bristol on May 22 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740284) and did his flying training at 2 E&RFTS, Filton. In February 1939 he went on six months of continuous training with the regular RAF and was attached to 66 Squadron at Duxford from February 27. Commissioned in March 1939, McGregor was posted to 46 Squadron at Digby on June 13. The attachment period was extended and he remained with 46 after the outbreak of war. On May 11 1940 he embarked with the squadron on the carrier HMS Glorious for Norway. The airfield at Skaanland was found not to be suitable for the Hurricanes and the carrier returned to Scapa Flow. It sailed again on the 24th and 46 flew off to Bardufoss on the 26th. McGregor left Norway by transport on June 7 and was with 46 when it reformed at Digby on the 15th. On July 22 he shared in the probable destruction of a Do 17. The squadron went south to Stapleford on September 1 and on the 8th he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another. On the 8th McGregor was shot down by a Bf 109. He crash-landed at Meopham Green, in Hurricane P 3053, unhurt. The aircraft was damaged but repairable. On the 11th he was shot down in combat over the Thames Estuary, baled out, injured, and was admitted to hospital. His Hurricane, P 3094, crashed and burned out in West Lordine Wood, Staplecross. It would appear that McGregor served briefly with 66 Squadron at Gravesend after recovering from injuries received on September 11. When he rejoined 46 Squadron on December 16 1940, the Digby ORB states that Flying Officer P R McGregor had arrived from 66 Squadron. On May 22 1941 46 Squadron pilots and aircraft sailed in HMS Argus for Gibraltar, where they transferred to the Ark Royal and sailed into the Mediterranean. They flew off to Hal Far, Malta on June 6. McGregor shared in destroying a SM 79 on the 11th. 46 Squadron pilots and aircraft were absorbed by 126 Squadron at Habbaniya on July 15 1941. On an early morning strafe of Syracuse seaplane base on August 17, McGregor damaged at least four aircraft. He joined 185 Squadron at Hal Far on January 1 1942, staying with it until March 2, when he was posted back to the UK. McGregor went to 53 OTU, Llandow on April 5 1942. He did a course at the Pilot Gunnery Instructor’s Training Wing at CGS, Sutton Bridge and then returned to 53 OTU. Further gunnery courses followed at Valley, Llanbedr and Exeter, before he joined 611 Squadron at Coltishall on October 25 1943, as a Flight Commander. McGregor took command of the squadron in August 1944 and led it until January 29 1945, when he was posted to No 1 CTC, Bombay for combined operations. On October 20 1945 McGregor took command of 11 Squadron at Seletar, Singapore. He led it to Japan in April 1946 and returned to the UK in early November. He was released from the RAF on December 15 1946, as a Squadron Leader. McGregor joined 501 Squadron, RAuxAF in January 1948 and served with it until January 1951. He died in 2002.

PO 5.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 5.1.44 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.1.55

JIRI MACHACEK 82560

Air Gunner

British

Czechoslovakian

310 and 145 Squadrons

Following the German take-over of his country on March 15 1939, he was dismissed from the Air Force on March 17 1939. Later that year he had found employment as a clerk in an office in Sabotka and then in Pardubice but he was determined to escape to France. With Poland now also occupied by the Germans the best route was south through the Balkans and across the Mediterranean. On January 19 1940 he escaped, with other Czech airmen and a guide, into Slovakia and from there through Hungary, Yugoslavia and Greece to Turkey. Here they boarded a ship which took them to Beirut, Alexandria, Algiers and, eventually, to Marseille, where they arrived on February 24 1940. Machacek went to a Czechoslovak transit camp, at Adge, until March 6 1940 when he was accepted into l’Armée de l’Air. He was sent to retrain on French equipment but the German Blitzkrieg started before this re-training was completed. When France capitulated Czechoslovak airmen were released from l’Armee de l’Air service and, on June 24 1940, Machacek boarded the Appa, at Port Vendres, which took him to Gibraltar. After transferring ship there, he was taken to England and arrived in Liverpool on July 7 1940. After an initial period at a transit camp at Innsworth he went to the RAF Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford. He was commissioned in the RAFVR on August 2 1940. On August 6 he joined 310 Squadron at Duxford. With no experience on Hurricanes, Machacek was placed in the reserve of pilots and went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 17th for conversion to Hurricanes. He completed training on September 11 1940 and was posted to 145 Squadron at Dyce. On October 9 the squadron moved to Tangmere. Flying from Tangmere on October 15, Machacek was attacked by Bf 109s over Christchurch. He baled out, wounded in the leg and after landing near New Milton he was admitted to Lymington Hospital. His Hurricane, V 7337, was abandoned over Milton and presumably crashed into the sea. Following further treatment at the RAF Hospital, Halton and a period of recuperation at Torquay, he returned to 145 Sqn on December 16 1940. During the summer of 1941 he had four successful encounters with the Luftwaffe. On June 21 he destroyed a Bf 109e whilst flying Spitfire IIb, P8317, near Canterbury. On June 27 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 whilst flying the same aircraft near Lille in France and on the next day, again in the same aircraft, he probably destroyed another Bf 109 near Cassel. On July 5 he damaged a Bf 109e whilst flying Spitfire IIb, P8341, near Lille. Machacek was killed, in aerial combat, on July 8 1941, whilst escorting Stirling bombers on a raid to Lille. Over France they were attacked by Bf 109s, and in the dog-fight, his Spitfire, R7218, was shot down and crashed near De Moeren in Belgium. His body was recovered from the wreckage and the Registrar for De Moeren issued a death certificate. The German forces took his body for further identification and burial but he has no known grave and no burial records have ever been found.. Machacek is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 30.

ROBERT McGUGAN Sgt

Pilot

Machacek was born on February 28 1915 at Sedlcany, Pribram. He joined the Czechoslovak Air Force on July 16 1934 and was assigned to the 72nd Light Bomber Squadron of the 6th Air Regiment, based at Prague-Kbely. He trained as an aerialobserver at the Military Academy at Prostejov and was assigned to the observation squadron of the 6th Regiment on April 15 1935. On completion of his military service he decided to remain in the Air Force and was posted to the Military Aviation Academy at Hranice. He returned to Prostejov to complete his pilot training and graduated on July 31 1937. Between October 4 1937 and March 18 1938 he completed fighter pilot training at Prostojov although he had been assigned to the 46th Fighter Squadron of the 4th Air Regiment at Pardubice on November 30 1937 to fly Avia-B534 biplane fighter aircraft.

PO (RAFVR) 29.3.39 PO 31.10.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.44 FO (RAuxAF) 26.1.48 FL (RAuxAF) 1.9.49

115801

PO

141 Squadron

Born on May 17 1920, McGugan joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (745937). He was called up at the outbreak of war and posted to 3 BGS, Aldergrove on November 18 1939, for a gunnery course. McGugan joined 141 Squadron at Grangemouth on December 18. The newly-formed squadron was working up on a variety of aircraft but in April 1940 it began to receive Defiants and became operational on June 3. The squadron moved south to West Malling on July 12. Shortly after 09.00 hrs on the 19th twelve Defiants moved to the forward airfield at Hawkinge. At 12.23 hrs they were ordered to carry out an offensive patrol twenty miles S of Folkstone. Three were left behind with engine trouble. During the patrol the nine Defiants were surprised by a force of Bf 109s of III/JG 51 off Dover and six of them were shot down. The remnants of 141 returned to Grangemouth on July 21 and in September it began training for night-fighter operations. On August 6 1941 McGugan joined 410 (RCAF) Squadron at Acklington, recentlyformed with Defiants. Commissioned in January 1942, he was posted away when the squadron was re-equipped with Beaufighters in early April. He joined 151 Squadron at Wittering on the 5th. The stay was short and on June 1 1942 he went to No 1 EANS, Eastbourne for a navigation course, moved to 6 AOS, Moreton Valence on July 18, went to 62 OTU, Usworth on September 15 and completed his Beaufighter conversion at 54 OTU, Charter Hall and Winfield from January 1 to March 23 1943.

PO 2.8.40 FO 27.12.40

DONALD BALLANTINE HARDY McHARDY 40928

FO

Pilot

British

229 Squadron

Born on January 10 1918, McHardy was at Cheltenham College from September 1931 to December 1932. On July 21 1937 he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the 4th Battalion Welch Regiment (TA). He relinquished this and joined the RAF on a short service commission. He began his ab initio course on May 16 1938. With training completed, he was serving with ‘B’ Flight No 1 AACU at Carew Cheriton

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he went to RAF Staff College at Gerrards Cross on January 8 1945. He was posted to HQ 46 Group, Transport Command on July 9, for staff duties. McHardy retired from the RAF at his own request on May 7 1958, as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. He returned to New Zealand to live. He died in 1990.

by April 5 1940. McHardy crashed in a Hawker Henley at Lydstep, Pembrokeshire on May 3, after accidentally knocking off ignition switches.He was posted from No 1 AACU to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 27. After converting to Hurricanes, McHardy was posted to 229 Squadron at Digby on June 8. He destroyed a He 111 on September 27. Patrolling the Croydon area on October 26, the squadron sighted a number of Bf 109s, which they pursued to the coast of France but then lost. After this a section, composed of Flying Officer G M Simpson, Sergeant R J Ommaney and McHardy, went down to attack a He 59 floatplane flying low off the coast near Boulogne. The enemy aircraft alighted on the sea, damaged, and the three Hurricanes were attacked by Bf 109s and gunfire from the shore. Ommaney got back to base but Simpson and McHardy failed to return. McHardy was later reported to be a prisoner. He had forced-landed in France reportedly low on fuel. He was taken prisoner and admitted to hospital with a broken jaw and teeth, having been thrown against the gunsight. In May 1941 McHardy was in Dulag Luft (Transit Camp Air), a temporary holding centre for captured Allied airmen at Oberursel, near Frankfurt. He was possibly on the ‘permanent staff ’ of the camp, made up of PoWs who initiated new arrivals into the procedures of being a prisoner of the Germans. On June 1 1941 18 PoWs, including 14 British ‘permanent staff ’, tunnelled their way out. All were recaptured, after an extensive search by 3,000 police and security personnel. At some time McHardy was held in Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan (where he designed scenary for the camp theatre) and Belaria (PoW No 17). He was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He later joined the RAFVR. McHardy died in 1962. APO 9.7.38 PO 16.5.39 FO (RAFVR) 22.11.47

FO 3.9.40

FL 3.9.41

APO 12.5.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41 SL 14.10.42 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.1.49

WILLIAM HOWARD MACHIN 968717

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

264 Squadron

Machin came from Handsworth, Birmingham and he joined the RAFVR in September 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. With training completed, he was posted to 264 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 22 1940. He was flying as gunner with Pilot Officer R S Gaskell in Defiant L 6965 on the 24th when they were shot down by Bf 109s of JG 51 over Hornchurch. Machin died of his wounds and Gaskell was only slightly injured. Machin was 20 and he is buried in Handsworth Cemetery.

FL (RAFRO) 1.12.42

MICHAL MIROSLAW MACIEJOWSKI P 1912

Sgt

Pilot Polish

111 and 249 Squadrons

EDRIC HARTGILL McHARDY 42139

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

248 Squadron

Born on October 29 1913, Maciejowski entered the Air Force Reserve Cadet School and he graduated in January 1936. As a Reserve pilot, he was mobilised in August 1939.

Born in Palmerston North on June 24 1920, McHardy was at Wanganui Collegiate School from 1935 to 1937, after which he farmed with his parents at Waipawa. In June 1938 he went to Wellington to apply for entrance into the Navy but was too late to sit the examinations.

After Poland fell, he made his way to France and may have enlisted in l’Armée de l’Air. Maciejowski made his way to England and enlisted in the RAFVR (780485) on February 9 1940 at RAF Eastchurch. He was on the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool from June 1. He was on the 4th Polish Pilots’ Course at No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum from August 12 to 19, for testing and grading. Maciejowski went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 19th. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 111 Squadron at Drem on September 10. He went to 249 Squadron at North Weald on October 11 1940. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on the 29th, a Bf 109 destroyed on November 7 and Bf 109s destroyed on December 5, January 10 1941 and February 10. Maciejowski was posted to 317 Squadron, then forming at Acklington on February 25 1941. He claimed a probable Ju 52 on May 22. He was awarded the KW and Bar (1.4.41), a second Bar (15.7.41) and the DFM (30.10.41). Maciejowski claimed two Bf 109s destroyed on December 30. He was awarded the VM (5th Class)(5.5.42) and commissioned in June. He claimed a Ju 88 and a FW 190 destroyed and he shared a Do 17 over Dieppe on August 19. He was posted away from 317 on August 25 to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as an instructor. Maciejowski was awarded a third Bar to the KW (15.11.42) and the DFC (15.11.42). He returned to operations on March 23 1943, when he joined 316 Squadron at Northolt. He probably destroyed a FW 190 and damaged another on May 4 and destroyed a Bf 109 on June 11. Maciejowski was shot down on August 9 1943 and captured. At some time he was held in Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan and Belaria (PoW No 2021). He was liberated in May 1945 and returned to duty on June 1 1945. After a refresher course at 16 FTS, Newton from August 21, Maciejowski was posted to 309 Squadron at Coltishall on November 11. He remained with the squadron until its disbandment on January 6 1947. Maciejowski was then released from the PAF, as a Flight Lieutenant. He settled in England and changed his name to M K Manson. Manson rejoined the RAF in June 1951 (501923). He was a test pilot for some years but by 1963 he was doing a ground job. He later transferred to the Catering Branch and in 1970 was running a large RAF Transit Hotel in Malta. He retired in 1972 as a Flight Lieutenant.

McHardy applied for an RAF short service commission and after provisional acceptance, he sailed for the UK on February 1 1939 in the RMS Tainui. McHardy began his ab initio course at 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury on March 16 1939 and moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand on May 30. He completed the course and after carrying out high dive-bombing and low-level bombing exercises at Aldergrove, he joined 248 Squadron at Hendon on November 6 1939. In February 1940 the squadron was transferred to Coastal Command and moved to North Coates. On May 10 McHardy was attached to 235 Squadron for a few days. On the 13th he damaged an unidentified enemy aircraft. On the 18th, on a trawler escort off Zeebrugge, McHardy destroyed a Bf 110 and shared a He 111. 248 Squadron did most of its work over the Norwegian coast. On July 27 McHardy flew to Trondheim, to photograph the Gneisenau in the harbour there. He had to go below cloud and encountered heavy flak. Reconnaissances of the fjords, searching for German ships, were extremely hazardous and often carried out in adverse weather conditions. On October 1 1940 McHardy was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander. On November 3 he damaged a He 111. Awarded the DFC (10.3.41), he was posted to 404 (RCAF) Squadron at Skitten on July 21, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. On December 21 1941 McHardy was RAF representative and Fighter Controller on the combined operations raid on Vaagso. He was flown to Scapa Flow and embarked on the cruiser HMS Kenya. After entering the fjord at dawn, the commandos landed under cover of a barrage from ships and a smoke screen. McHardy directed the fighters by R/T from the bridge of the Kenya. McHardy probably destroyed a He 115 on January 16 1942 and on April 22 he damaged a Ju 88. On May 17 404 escorted Beauforts to attack the German battleship Prinz Eugen off Norway. As the squadron withdrew McHardy saw a Beaufighter ditch and its crew surface without a dinghy. He circled and dropped his own. This incident led to his being awarded the C de G (Fr) in 1949, the ditched crew having been members of the Free French Air Force. Awarded a Bar to the DFC (15.6.42), McHardy took command of 404 (RCAF) Squadron on July 14. Then, with his tour completed, he was posted away to RAF Ferry Command at Prestwick on October 17 1942. He began flying Liberators to and from West Africa. He received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.43) and was sent to Brazil to establish a staging post at Para Belem on the Amazon. In August 1943 McHardy took command of the South Atlantic Ferry Service at Nassau. He returned to operations on November 20 1943, when he took command of 143 Squadron at Portreath, as a Wing Commander. On December 12 he destroyed two Ju 88s over the Bay of Biscay. McHardy was awarded the DSO (22.8.44). With his third tour of operations completed,

PO 1.6.42 FO 1.6.43 FL 1.6.44 FL 26.6.51

ARCHIBALD McINNES 84920

PO

Pilot

British

601 and 238 Squadrons

McInnes was born in 1913. He joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745802). Called up on September 1, he completed his training on August 30 1940 and was commissioned the next day. He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 and after converting to Hurricanes, he

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On March 1 1941 McIntyre was posted to 485 Squadron, then being formed at Driffield. With his tour completed, he went to 51 OTU, Cranfield on October 7 1941, for Controller duties, and did not return to operations until November 1942, when he joined 488 Squadron at Ayr. McIntyre was made a Flight Commander in February 1943 and in May went on attachment to Rolls Royce at Derby, where he became Senior Service Instructor on the Fighter Pilots’ Engine-Handling Course. McIntyre was posted away in October 1944 and in January 1945 went to 83 GSU, Aston Down, to convert to Typhoons and Tempests. He joined 3 Squadron at Volkel in March 1945 and was with it until July, when he was posted to RAF Sealand, as a maintenance test pilot. McIntyre was awarded the AFC (1.1.58) and retired from the RAF on January 30 1959, as a Squadron Leader. He went to work for Rolls Royce and eventually became Military Representative in the Aero Division. He retired in 1981 and died in December 2011.

joined 601 Squadron at Exeter on September 17. His first flight was made on the 18th, circuits and landings. McInnes moved to 238 Squadron at Chilbolton on October 8 1940. No further service details traced. McInnes was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 31.8.40 FO 31.8.41 FL 31.8.42

JANUSZ MACINSKI 76721

PO

Pilot Polish

111 Squadron

Macinski was in the PAF before the war. After Poland fell, he went to England and was commissioned in the RAFVR at RAF Eastchurch on January 27 1940. He was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool from June 1. Macinski was at 15 EFTS, Redhill from July 18 to 31, for testing and grading. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 1 1940. On the 20th Macinski landed on the aerodrome in Battle L 5714, with the undercarriage retracted. On the 23rd he crashed in Hurricane N 2354 at Walpole St Peter, Norfolk, due to a glycol leak. He was unhurt in both incidents. He joined 111 Squadron at Debden on August 31. Macinski was shot down during combat with Bf 109s on September 4 and baled out. His Hurricane, Z 2309, is presumed to have crashed in the Channel. Macinski was reported ‘Missing’ and is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt. He was 24. One report stated that he was killed by German fighters as he floated down. Macinski was awarded the KW (31.10.47).

APO 12.9.39 PO 13.4.40 FO 13.4.41 FL 13.4.42 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.7.56

DONALD ALISTAIR STEWART McKAY 113322

Sgt

Pilot

British

501 Squadron and 421 Flight

McKay was born in Pontefract, Yorkshire in 1917. He was working as a bank clerk when he joined the RAFVR in April 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740115). He began his elementary flying training at 5 E&RFTS, Hanworth.

PO 27.1.40 Having flown the required number of hours and reached a suitable standard, McKay was offered a six-month attachment to the regular RAF for continuous training. He joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere on February 6 1939. He moved to 111 Squadron at Northolt on June 13 and by August, with war looking to be imminent, his attachment was extended and he was officially called up on September 1 1939. McKay joined 501 Squadron at Filton five days later. The squadron moved to Tangmere in late November and went from there to Bethieneville on May 10 1940, to reinforce the squadrons already in France. On May 12 McKay destroyed a He 111, on the 15th damaged a Do 17, on the 21st probably destroyed a Do 17, on the 27th he destroyed two He 111s and probably a Do 17 and on June 14 destroyed a Bf 110. In the early hours of the 15th the order was given to strike camp and pack up in preparation for evacuation of the squadron to England. At ten in the morning McKay was ordered to fly an almost-unserviceable Hurricane north to a forward base at Caen. On arriving there, he found everything in the final stages of being evacuated, with the Germans only five miles away. McKay was ordered to fly his Hurricane back to Tangmere. He arrived at two in the afternoon, was temporarily attached to 145 Squadron and then sent on 48 hours leave. 501 Squadron re-assembled at Croydon on June 20 and moved to Middle Wallop on July 4. On the 12th McKay attacked and possibly destroyed a Ju 88 at night near Weymouth, on the 29th probably destroyed another and on August 15 he destroyed two more. Three days later McKay was himself shot down over Canterbury by Oberleutnant Schopfel of JG 26 and baled out over Dargate, slightly burned, from Hurricane N 2617. He was admitted to hospital and remained non-effective sick until October 22 1940, when he joined 421 Flight at Gravesend. He damaged a Bf 109 on the 24th, destroyed a Do 17 on November 15, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 27th and shot down a Ju 88 on December 17. McKay was awarded the DFM (7.1.41). 421 Flight was expanded and renumbered 91 Squadron on January 11 1941. McKay destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another on February 4, shared a Ju 87 on the 5th, damaged a Bf 109 on the 13th and destroyed a Do 17 on March 6. He was awarded a Bar to the DFM (18.3.41), presented to him by the King at Buckingham Palace on the 25th. On March 30 McKay damaged a Bf 109, on April 21 destroyed a Bf 109, on May 11 destroyed another and on June 1 damaged another. On June 20 McKay completed his tour and was posted to 55 OTU, Usworth, as an instructor. Commissioned in October 1941, he joined 234 Squadron at Ibsley on January 18 1942 and he destroyed two Bf 109s near Dunkirk on February 12. McKay moved to 130 Squadron at Perranporth on the 23rd, as a Flight Commander. He was posted to the Middle East on April 6 1942, joined 33 Squadron at Idku on August 27, moved to 213 Squadron at LG 85 in the Western Desert on October 20 and then to 274 Squadron at LG 37 on October 31 1942. McKay’s final success came on November 3, when he damaged a Bf 109. Tour-expired, McKay was posted to a Communications Flight and later to an MU at Aboukir, where he spent nine months on test pilot duties. On January 25 1944 he went south to Rhodesia, as an instructor, staying there until July 16 1945, when he was posted back to the UK. McKay went to 7 EFTS, Desford on October 1, as an instructor. He was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Flight Lieutenant. He rejoined the RAFVR and continued as an instructor at Desford until June 30 1953. He died in tragic personal circumstances on September 30 1959.

PETER ROY CHARLES McINTOSH 745004

Sgt

Pilot

British

151 and 605 Squadrons

Born at Crofton Park, Brockley on August 9 1920, McIntosh was educated at Woodside Primary School and Whitgift Middle School. He worked for the Eagle Star Insurance Co and joined the RAFVR on February 7 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called to full-time service on September 11 1939, McIntosh went to ITW and he resumed his flying training on January 1 1940 at 12 FTS, Grantham, on No 7 Course. He was awarded his flying badge on May 21 and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 3. He then converted to Hurricanes and joined 151 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on July 7. He damaged a Bf 109 on August 31. McIntosh joined 605 Squadron at Croydon on September 13. He was shot down and killed in action against Bf 109s over the Channel off Dungeness on October 12 1940. His Hurricane, P 3022, crashed by Littlestone golf course. McIntosh is buried in St John’s churchyard, Shirley, Croydon.

ATHOL GORDON McINTYRE 36257

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

111 Squadron

Born in Auckland on January 4 1917, McIntyre was educated at New Plymouth Boys’ High School. He went to work for an insurance company in Wellington. In August 1938 he applied for an RNZAF short service commission but with no immediate vacancies, he did not begin his elementary flying training at the Wellington Aero Club until June 26 1939. McIntyre was commissioned and went to No 1 FTS, Wigram on September 12. He was awarded his flying badge on November 23 and sailed for the UK in early March 1940 in the SS Remuera, arriving there on April 13. McIntyre transferred to the RAF at Uxbridge and went to 12 OTU, Benson in May, to convert to Battles. On June 3 he was carrying out a night cross-country exercise. At one point he was engaged by searchlights and fired on by anti aircraft guns, in spite of having given the correct signals for the day. Later on the same flight, he ran out of fuel and baled out, landing safely but suffering concussion. On July 15 McIntyre moved to 7 OTU, Hawarden, to convert to Spitfires but afterwards joined 111 Squadron at Croydon on July 29. On the 30th he was detached to the Kenley Sector Training Flight, probably to convert to Hurricanes. He rejoined 111 on August 6 and made his first flight with the squadron on that day and became operational on the 10th. On the 13th he destroyed a Do 17 and on the 15th he was shot down by a Bf 110 over Thorney Island. His Hurricane, P3595, was severely damaged and he landed at Hawkinge, slightly wounded. McIntyre rejoined 111 on October 24 and made his first flight since August 15 on October 25.

PO 7.10.41 FO 15.4.42 FL 15.4.43 FO (RAFVR) 10.12.47

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RONALD MacKAY 91227

PO

Pilot

British

(1.1.41). His father was presented with his dead son’s decorations by the King at Buckingham Palace in early 1941. On September 10 1990 a commemorative plaque was unveiled at the site of McKellar’s crash.

234 Squadron

Born on April 13 1910, MacKay was in the AAF before the war. He was called to full-time service in late August 1939 and was on 603 Squadron as a civilian pupil pilot on September 3. He was posted to 11 EFTS, Perth on October 21.

PO (AAF) 8.11.36 FO (AAF) 8.5.38 FO 24.8.39 FL 1.6.40

DONALD CARR MACKENZIE 43706

MacKay was commissioned in 603 on March 23 1940 and posted to 15 SFTS, Lossiemouth, where he completed his intermediate and advanced flying training on August 16 1940. He was possibly at a B&GS from the 17th until September 1 and he arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 2nd. MacKay joined 234 Squadron at Middle Wallop on September 18 1940. Returning from St Eval from a routine sortie on September 25, he baled out and was seriously injured. His Spitfire, X 4182, crashed near St Mawgan. No further service details traced. MacKay was released from the RAF in January 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant.

Pilot

British

New Zealander

56 Squadron

In late July 1939 Mackenzie applied for a short service commission in the RNZAF and was accepted for the last prewar course, beginning his ground training at Rongotai on September 20. He was posted to No1 EFTS, Taieri on October 21 and then to No 1 FTS, Wigram on December 16. Awarded his flying badge on February 13 1940, Mackenzie completed his training and sailed for the UK on April 26 in the RMS Rangitiki, arriving there on June 8. Mackenzie was posted to 4 Ferry Pilots Pool at Kemble on June 17, as a staff pilot. On July 18 he went to 12 OTU, Benson to convert to Battles. He then joined 142 Squadron at Eastchurch on August 24 1940. He flew one operation over enemy territory before volunteering for Fighter Command. Mackenzie joined 56 Squadron at Boscombe Down on September 5. On the 27th he damaged a Do 17. Before being posted away to CFS, Upavon on January 1 1941, Mackenzie had taken part in twenty-three operational sorties. After completing an instructor’s course, Mackenzie went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton. In March 1942 he was posted to RAF Hucknall, as a test pilot for Rolls Royce. In preparation for a return to operations, Mackenzie went to 1654 Conversion Unit at Wigsley, to crew-up and convert to Wellingtons. He then joined 467 (RAAF) Squadron, being formed at Scampton. In early April 1943 Mackenzie was promoted and appointed a Flight Commander. In the late evening of June 11 he took off in a Lancaster to attack Düsseldorf. He failed to return and he and his crew were reported ‘Missing’. They are buried in a collective grave at Rheinberg War Cemetery, Germany. His headstone gives his rank as Squadron Leader. Mackenzie was awarded the DFC (20.7.43). It was presented to his parents by the Governor General in Wellington on January 9 1945.

ARCHIBALD ASHMORE McKELLAR FL

Pilot

Born in Wellington on August 26 1921 Mackenzie was educated at Wellington College and went to work for an insurance company. He served as a gunner in the 22nd Anti-Aircraft Territorial Battery.

APO 23.3.40 PO 20.6.40 FO 20.6.41 FL 20.6.42

90168

PO

605 Squadron McKellar was born in Paisley on April 10 1912. The family moved to Glasgow in 1915 and his father started a plastering business.

He was educated at Shawlands Academy. McKellar left to work in a Glasgow stockbroker’s office at the behest of his father, although his own wish was to be a plasterer. After some years McKellar at last overcame his father’s opposition and he began an apprenticeship with the family firm. He served his time and then decided that he wanted to learn to fly but again his father forbade it. McKellar took lessons secretly at the Scottish Flying Club at Abbotsinch and after obtaining his ‘A’ licence, he presented his father with a fait accompli. In 1936 McKellar was invited to join 602 Squadron, AAF and he was commissioned in November. He was awarded his flying badge on July 11 1937 and was a Flying Officer when called to full-time service on August 24 1939. On October 16 McKellar shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 and on the 28th shared a He 111. This enemy aircraft crashed in the Lammermuir Hills, S of Haddington, the first one to fall on British soil in the war. On June 21 1940 McKellar joined 605 Squadron at Drem, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. The squadron was scrambled on August 15 to intercept a large force of German bombers of Luftflotte 5 from Norway, on their way to raid Newcastle. Only ‘B’ Flight, led by McKellar, made contact. He destroyed three He 111s and probably another. His part in the action was recognised by the award of the DFC (13.9.40). The squadron was arrived at Croydon on September 7. McKellar claimed three He 111s and a Bf 109 destroyed on the 9th, he probably destroyed a He 111 and shared another on the 11th, claimed two Bf 109s and a Do 17 destroyed and a He 111 probably destroyed on the 15th and shot down a He 111 at night on the 16th. The CO of 605, Squadron Leader W M Churchill, was plagued with eye trouble at Croydon and from the 11th onwards McKellar generally led the squadron. When Churchill was posted away to form 71 Squadron, McKellar was given command on September 29 and promoted to Acting Squadron Leader on October 2. He destroyed four Bf 109s and damaged another on October 7 and destroyed three more and damaged two on the 20th, 26th and 27th. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (8.10.40) and at some time in October his portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde. At 7.40 am on November 1 1940 McKellar took off, with others, to mount a standing patrol in the Maidstone area. About 8.15am Bf 109 fighter-bombers, with escorts, crossed the coast heading for Canterbury. They were intercepted near Faversham by McKellar’s Hurricanes. After a short sharp engagement, the other 605 pilots lost sight of McKellar. The precise facts of his last flight are not known. An eye-witness saw his Hurricane, V 6879, circling Woodlands Manor, Addisham, apparently searching for somewhere to land, a difficult task because of the anti-invasion obstacles in almost every field. After several circuits the aircraft suddenly flicked on to its back and ploughed, inverted, through some trees, finally coming to rest against the wall of the manor house, after striking a garden wall. McKellar destroyed a Bf 109 in the engagement. McKellar was dead when found. He was buried in New Eastwood Cemetery, Glasgow on November 6. The funeral was attended by many people and there were more than a hundred wreaths. McKellar was awarded the DSO (16.11.40) and received a Mention in Despatches

APO 20.9.39 PO 8.6.40 FO 8.6.41 FL 8.6.42

JOHN NOBLE MACKENZIE 40547

FO

Pilot

New Zealander

41 Squadron

Mackenzie was born at Goodwood, Otago on August 11 1914, the grandson of a former Prime Minister of New Zealand. He was educated at Timaru and Otago Boys’ High Schools and after leaving, he went farming, in partnership with his father. In April 1937 Mackenzie applied for an RAF short service commission and after provisional acceptance, he sailed for the UK on October 23 in the RMS Remuera. He began his ab initio course at 7 E&RFTS, Desford on December 6 and was posted to 9 FTS, Hullavington on March 5 1938 for the intermediate and advanced course. With training completed, Mackenzie joined 41 Squadron at Catterick on September 6. He attended a parachute course at Manston on October 2 1939. He was still with the squadron at the start of the Battle of Britain. On July 29 1940 Mackenzie’s Hurricane, N 3112, was badly damaged by Bf 109s over Dover. He could not bale out because his hood was jammed but he evaded the enemy fighters and made a forced-landing at Ringwould, near Deal. On August 15 Mackenzie probably destroyed a Ju 88, on September 6 he destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another, on the 11th destroyed a He 111, on the 15th probably a Do 17, on the 23rd probably a Bf 109, on October 5 destroyed a Bf 109, on the 7th he shared in damaging a Do 17, on the 25th damaged two Bf 109s and on October 30, November 17 and 27 he destroyed three more Bf 109s. He was awarded the DFC (15.11.40). On January 16 1941 Mackenzie was made a Flight Commander. He was decorated by the King in March and posted away in April, to be a Fighter Controller at Catterick. During his time with 41, Mackenzie had flown 245 operational sorties. On September 3 1941 Mackenzie was posted to Singapore to join 488 (NZ) Squadron, as a Flight Commander. The squadron was formed in New Zealand and received its Buffaloes at Kallang, when it arrived in November.

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Mackenzie was awarded the DFC (25.10.40). On October 27, 29 and 30 he claimed Bf 109s destroyed, on November 8 a Bf 109 destroyed, on the 12th a Ju 88 shared and on the 15th a Bf 109 destroyed and another damaged. Mackenzie was posted to 247 Squadron at Predannack on June 19 1941, as a Flight Commander. He destroyed a Ju 88 at night on July 6/7 and a He 111 at night over a convoy on the 12/13th. On September 29 Mackenzie led a strafing attack on Lannion airfield in Brittany. Mackenzie was hit by heavy flak from the ground defences and ditched in the sea. He took to his dinghy, paddled to the shore and was captured. He was in various camps before finishing up at Stalag Luft 3, Sagan. Mackenzie was repatriated to the UK in October 1944, arriving at Liverpool on the 10th. He was posted to 53 OTU, Kirton-in-Lindsey on December 19, as an instructor. On June 17 1945 Mackenzie went to 61 OTU, Keevil, as a Flight Commander. Awarded the AFC (1.1.53), Mackenzie retired from the RAF on July 1 1967 as a Wing Commander. He died on June 4 2009.

It was not fully operational when the Japanese attacked and fought its first action on January 12 1942, suffering heavy losses then and during the next few days. Nine Hurricanes arrived on the 25th, to reinforce the badly-depleted squadron but Japanese bombing of Kallang airfield made it almost impossible to continue operations. The remaining aircraft were evacuated to Sumatra on January 31 but by February 23 1942 it was all over and most of the pilots, Mackenzie among them, sailed in the Deucalion for Fremantle. Six pilots remained behind, to strengthen 605 Squadron. Mackenzie arrived in New Zealand in April and was given command of 14 (RNZAF) Squadron, then forming at Ohakea. In August 1942 he was made CO of the Fighter OCU at Ohakea. He returned to the UK in June 1943. After a course at CGS, Sutton Bridge, Mackenzie was posted to 61 OTU, Rednal, as OC Bombing and Gunnery Squadron. In April 1944 he took command of 64 Squadron at Deanland. He was now officially in the RNZAF and in September 1944 was posted away from 64 and repatriated to New Zealand. In mid- February 1945 he did a Corsair conversion course but it was decided that the RNZAF would not move north of the Solomons and the squadrons were withdrawn. Mackenzie was then posted to the Fighter Leaders’ School at Ohakea on March 5. In August he left the RNZAF at his own request, in early 1946 returned to the UK and in July was granted an Extended Service Commission in the RAF. This became a Permanent Commission in 1948. Mackenzie retired on December 18 1957, as a Squadron Leader, and returned to New Zealand. He died in 1993.

PO 24.8.40 FO 24.8.41 FL 24.8.42 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.1.54

ERNEST JOHN McKIE 120195

JOHN WOFFENDEN McKENZIE Pilot

British

Wop/AG

British

248 Squadron

McKie joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (755566). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 248 Squadron on September 4 1940.

APO 19.2.38 PO 6.12.38 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.1.44 SL 1.8.47

33461 PO

Sgt

Commissioned in April 1942, McKie was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1981.

111 Squadron

McKenzie, of Johannesburg, was educated at Aberdeen Grammar School. He entered RAF College, Cranwell on January 1 1938, as a Flight Cadet.

PO 8.4.42 FO 8.10.42 FL 8.4.44

After the outbreak of war, Cranwell cadets, who had not completed their courses, were enlisted in the regular RAF on September 7 1939, as Airmen u/t Pilots and each given an Airman number. McKenzie (581737) graduated on October 1 1939 and was granted a Permanent Commission and the next day joined 263 Squadron, then reforming at Filton with Gladiators. On April 21 1940 the squadron flew to Prestwick and embarked on HMS Glorious for Norway. It flew off on the 25th and landed on Lake Lesjaskog. McKenzie flew a defensive patrol along Romsdals Valley on the 26th. The squadron was withdrawn to Veblungsnes on the 27th and on the 28th was evacuated from Aandalsnes and then re-embarked for return to the UK. McKenzie was posted to 111 Squadron at Wick on May 10 1940 and he joined the squadron at Northolt on the 13th. During a combat off Margate on August 11, McKenzie is believed to have been shot down by Bf 109s. His Hurricane, P 3922, crashed into the sea and he was reported ‘Missing’. He was 20 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 9.

ADAM McLEOD MacKINNON Lieutenant (FAA)

Pilot

British

804 Squadron

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on December 21 1936. MacKinnon was posted to 9 FTS, Hullavington on March 20 1937 and with training completed, he was posted to 51 Squadron at Boscombe Down on October 23. MacKinnon transferred to the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on July 15 1938. He joined 804 Squadron at Hatston on June 16 1940, flying Sea Gladiators on dockyard defence. He later served in 808 and 821 Squadrons and at various times flew from HMS Furious, Courageous, Ark Royal, Illustrious and Attacker. MacKinnon retired in 1958 as a Lieutenant Commander. He died in 2002.

PO 1.10.39 APO 8.3.37 PO 21.12.37 Sub-Lt 15.7.38 Lt 21.8.39

KENNETH WILLIAM MACKENZIE 84017

PO

Pilot

British

DONALD DUNCAN MacKINNON

43 and 501 Squadrons

745928 Sgt

Wop/AG British

Born in Belfast on June 8 1916, Mackenzie was educated at the Methodist College. He started an engineering apprenticeship at Harland and Wolff. He studied for an engineering degree at Queen’s University, Belfast.

236 Squadron

MacKinnon joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 236 Squadron at North Coates in March 1940. He was one of the crew of Blenheim L 6690, captained by Pilot Officer RH Rigby, lost during a photo-reconnaissance operation over Le Havre on July 18 1940. The weather was bad and intense anti-aircraft fire was encountered over Cap de la Hague. The Blenheim is believed to be the one claimed by Oberfeldwebel Schnell of II/JG 2. MacKinnon was 21. He is buried in Villerville Communal Cemetery, France.

In 1935 Mackenzie learned to fly at the North of Ireland Aero Club at Newtownards and in early 1939 joined the RAFVR as an Airman u/t Pilot (745455) and did his flying at 24 E&RFTS at Sydenham. Called up at the outbreak of war, Mackenzie was sent to 3 ITW, Hastings on December 28 1939. He moved to 5 EFTS, Hanworth on February 25 1940 and then to 3 FTS, South Cerney on May 25. With his training completed, Mackenzie was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 31, to convert to Hurricanes. He joined 43 Squadron at Usworth on September 21. After sixteen training flights and two operational patrols, Mackenzie was posted to 501 Squadron at Kenley on the 29th. He shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 on October 4, claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on the 5th and another destroyed and a second shared on the 7th. The Bf 109 destroyed on this day was attacked by Mackenzie with no apparent result. He followed it down to almost sea level and when it did not ditch he struck the tailplane with one of his wings and the enemy fighter crashed into the sea. Mackenzie then made a forced-landing outside Folkestone, in Hurricane V 6799, with slight facial injuries. On October 25 Mackenzie claimed a Bf 109 destroyed, another shared and another damaged. In a later patrol that day he was in collision with Pilot Officer V Goth of 501, as he manoeuvred his section to attack a formation of Bf 109s.

WILLIAM LIDSTONE McKNIGHT 41937

PO

Pilot

Canadian

242 Squadron

Born in Edmonton, Alberta in 1918, McKnight was educated at Crescent Heights High School and the University of Alberta. He was a medical student before joining the RAF on a short service commission. McKnight began his ab initio training on February 6 1939, as a pupil pilot. With training completed, McKnight joined the newly-reformed 242 Squadron at Church Fenton on November 6 1939.

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a Do 17 and a He 111 and on June 3/4 destroyed two Do 217s and damaged two more. He was awarded the DSO (29 5.42) and on July 31 he was posted to 59 OTU, Crosby-on-Eden, as an instructor. Later in the year he was sent on a lecture tour of the USA. In June 1943 he went to the Air Fighting Development Unit at Wittering. On June 29 MacLachlan, in company with Geoffrey Page (q.v.), flew a Mustang on a daylight sortie to France, in the course of which he destroyed two Hs 126s, a Ju 88 and shared a second with Page, who also destroyed two Hs 126s. They went again to France on July 18 but as they crossed the French coast MacLachlan was hit by machine gun fire. He made a forcedlanding in a field and ploughed through an orchard. He survived the crash but was taken, as a prisoner, to a German field hospital. MacLachlan died there on July 31 1943. He is buried in Route de Caen Communal Cemetery, Pont L’Eveque, France. MacLachlan was awarded a second Bar to the DFC (30.7.43). His portrait was drawn by Eric Kennington. MacLachlan’s brother, Flight Lieutenant G B MacLachlan, was shot down and killed during a Ramrod operation to Brest, aged 21. He was serving as a pilot with 616 Squadron. He is buried at Plouguerneau.

He went to France on May 14 1940, on attachment to 607 Squadron. After moving to 615 Squadron on the 16th, he shot down a Bf 109 near Cambrai on the 17th. McKnight returned to England two days later. Over Dunkirk on May 28 McKnight destroyed a Bf 109, on the 29th a Bf 109, a Do 17 and a probable Bf 109, on the 31st destroyed two Bf 110s and a Bf 109 and on June 1 destroyed two Ju 87s and damaged two more. He was awarded an immediate DFC on June 4 and decorated by the King three days later. 242 Squadron flew to Le Mans on June 8 1940, to reinforce the hard-pressed squadrons in France and support the Army in its rearguard actions back to the Atlantic ports. On June 14 McKnight destroyed two Bf 109s. The squadron returned to England on the 18th. McKnight claimed three Bf 110s and a He 111 destroyed on August 30, two Bf 110s on September 9 and a Do 17 and a shared Ju 88 on the 18th. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (8.10.40) and on November 5 he claimed his final victory, a shared Bf 109 over Gravesend. On January 12 1941 McKnight, in company with Pilot Officer M K Brown, was on a Rhubarb operation. They crossed the French coast near Gravelines and strafed enemy troops. As they turned to make a second attack, a Bf 109 was seen, at 500 feet. Brown attacked the troops but when he looked for McKnight, he had vanished. He did not return to base and either fell to the flak or the Bf 109. McKnight is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 30 and also by a commemorative plaque at Calgary Airport.

APO 3.5.37 PO 1.3.38 FO 1.10.39 FL 1.10.40 SL 1.12.41

JAMES ROBERT MacLACHLAN 36005

SL Pilot

Canadian

46 Squadron

Born on February 27 1911 in Ottawa, MacLachlan joined the RAF in May 1934, on a direct-entry Permanent Commission, as a University Entrant. He was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham on the 26th and joined 19 Squadron at Duxford on March 4 1935.

APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 He moved to the newly-reformed 213 Squadron at Church Fenton on March 23 1937, as a Flight Commander. MacLachlan went to the RAF School of Aeronautical Engineering at Henlow on January 3 1938 for a course. He was appointed OC of ‘V’ Flight, No 1 AACU at Cleave on September 23 1939. He was posted away to Digby on June 20 1940 and he took command of 46 Squadron there on the 21st. MacLachlan was posted from 46 to RAF North Weald on October 6, as non-effective sick. He transferred to the Technical Branch later in 1940. MacLachlan retired from the RAF on September 1 1956 as a Group Captain. He died in Ottawa in 1989.

ALAN MONCRIEFF MACLACHLAN 90085 SL

Pilot

British

92 Squadron

MacLachlan was commissioned in Class ‘A’ (section ii) of the RAFO in May 1930. He resigned this commission in early 1935 and was granted one in 600 Squadron, AAF. Called to full-time service on August 24 1939, MacLachlan served as a Flight Commander in 600 Squadron. He was detached to HQ 11 Group on March 25 1940 and he relinquished his rank of Acting Squadron Leader on May 18. He later went to 7 OTU, Hawarden for a refresher course and conversion to Spitfires. On September 26 1940 MacLachlan was attached to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill, as a supernumerary. He took command of the squadron on October 2 and was posted away on October 25, when Squadron Leader J A Kent arrived. MacLachlan was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Wing Commander. PO (RAFO) 5.5.30 FO (RAFO) 5.11.31 PO (AAF) 28.4.35 FL (AAF) 15.1.39 FL 24.8.39 SL 1.9.40 WC 1.3.42

PO 26.5.34 FO 26.11.34 FL 1.10.36 SL 1.4.39 WC 1.3.41 WC 1.7.47 GC 1.1.54

ARCHIBALD COLIN MACLAREN 90950

PO

Pilot

British

604 Squadron

Maclaren was born in 1913 and educated at Eton. He joined 604 Squadron, AAF in 1939. He was called to full-time service on August 24 and was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose for No 13 Course, which ran from October 9. However, at some point, he was transferred to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth.

FO (AAF) 28.10.36

JAMES ARCHIBALD FINDLAY MacLACHLAN 39639

FL

Pilot

British

145 and 73 Squadrons

With training completed, Maclaren rejoined 604 Squadron at Northolt from 15 FTS on May 4 1940. He was detached to RAF Uxbridge on May 22, for a short course on R/T procedure. He made his last flight with 604 on September 5 1940, a patrol. He was with the squadron until September 24, when he flew as a passenger to RAF Chipping Norton. Maclaren joined the staff of 15 FTS there. MacLaren was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on March 21 1971.

Born in 1919 at Styal, Cheshire, MacLachlan joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 1 1937, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney on May 8 and with training over, he joined 88 Squadron at Boscombe Down on November 27. Then equipped with Hinds, the squadron soon after received Fairey Battles and took them to France at the outbreak of war. The squadron withdrew to England in June 1940. MacLachlan was awarded the DFC (16.7.40). He was detached from 88 Squadron and assumed command of the Station Flight at RAF Sydenham on July 12 1940. In August he volunteered for Fighter Command and was posted to 145 Squadron at Drem on the 18th. He went to 73 Squadron on September 28. MacLachlan was posted away from 73 to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge for overseas on October 19. He embarked on HMS Argus for Malta on the 23rd. On November 17 1940 he led six Hurricanes off the aircraft carrier for Malta, where they joined 261 Squadron at Ta Kali. On January 9 1941 MacLachlan claimed two Mc 200s destroyed, on the 19th a Z 506 B, a Ju 88, two Ju 87s and a possible CR 42 and during the night of February 8/9 two Ju 88s destroyed. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (11.2.41). In combat on February 16 1941, MacLachlan was hit by a Bf 109 and severely wounded in the left arm. He baled out and landed on Malta. After three days in hospital, his arm was amputated below the elbow. MacLachlan returned to the UK and went to the Limb Centre at Roehampton, who designed a special detachable forearm and hand, suitable for use in a Hurricane. He returned to operations on November 4 1941, when he took command of No 1 Squadron at Redhill. The squadron began night intruder operations over France. During the night of April 26/27 1942 MacLachlan destroyed a Do 217 and damaged another, on May 3/4 destroyed

APO 25.6.39 APO 24.8.39 PO 4.5.40 FO 2.12.40 FL 2.12.41

JOHN WILLIAM McLAUGHLIN 146149

Sgt

Pilot

British

238 Squadron

McLaughlin joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (758184). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 20 Course, which ran from May 11 to August 16 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 17 and after having converted to Hurricanes, McLaughlin joined 238 Squadron at Middle Wallop on September 12. He was shot down by Bf 109s on October 5, in Hurricane P 3611. He baled out, with multiple burns and was admitted to Shaftesbury Hospital. McLaughlin later went to Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead for skin grafts, becoming a Guinea Pig. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in April 1943, he was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He later settled in South Australia and died there in 2001. PO 22.4.43 FO 22.10.43 FL 22.4.45

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

CHARLES HECTOR MacLEAN

DESMOND ANNESLEY PETER McMULLEN

90166

40002

FL

Pilot

British

602 Squadron

FO

Pilot

MacLean was born on December 9 1913 in Glasgow. He was educated at Canford School and graduated from Glasgow University with a Law degree in 1935.

With training completed, McMullen was posted to No 1 Air Armament School at Manby on July 9 1938, as a staff pilot. He joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 8 1939. Over Dunkirk on May 24 1940, he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and shared another, on the 25th he probably destroyed two Bf 110s, on the 26th he destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 28th he shared in the destruction of a Do 17. On July 4 McMullen’s Spitfire was damaged by Bf 109s near Manston and three days later he made a forced-landing at Manston, after a combat with Bf 109s near Deal. On July 24 McMullen claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and probably another, on August 15 a Bf 109 probably destroyed and another damaged, on the 16th a Bf 109 destroyed, on the 18th a Bf 110 probably destroyed and a Bf 109 and a Do 17 damaged, on the 24th and 26th two Bf 109s destroyed, on the 30th a Do 17 shared, on the 31st a probable Do 17 shared, on September 2 a Do 17 destroyed and probably a Bf 109 and on the 3rd a probable Bf 110. On September 11 McMullen was posted to 222 Squadron at Hornchurch. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on the 14th, a Bf 109 destroyed and a Bf 110 damaged on the 15th, a Bf 109 shared on October 15, another destroyed on the 17th, a Bf 110 shared on the 20th, a Bf 109 destroyed and another damaged on the 25th, another destroyed and one damaged on the 28th and another Bf 109 destroyed on November 8. McMullen was awarded the DFC (1.10.40). On November 23 1940 he was posted to 151 Squadron at Wittering, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant and ‘B’ Flight Commander. During the night of January 15/16 1941 he probably destroyed a Ju 88. The squadron converted to Defiants and McMullen teamed up with Sergeant Fairweather as his gunner. During the nights of April 8/9, the 9/10th and May 10/11 they shot down two He 111s and a Ju 88. In July 1941 McMullen was posted to 266 Squadron at Wittering. On August 19 he shared a He 111, on the 21st damaged one, on September 12 probably destroyed another, on October 13 destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another and on the 25th destroyed a Bf 110. McMullen was awarded a Bar to the DFC (7.3.41) and a second Bar (12.12.41). In late November 1941 he was posted to 55 OTU, as an instructor. He moved to 57 OTU, Hawarden on December 5 1941. McMullen returned to operations in April 1942 and was briefly attached to 602 Squadron at Redhill before joining 124 Squadron at Gravesend on May 16. He damaged two FW 190s on May 24. In June 1942 McMullen was posted to 64 Squadron at Hornchurch, as supernumerary Squadron Leader. He was given command of 65 Squadron at Gravesend in July and over Dieppe on August 19 he damaged a Do 217. McMullen left the squadron in September and in November he briefly led 324 Wing in North Africa before being given a staff job. On August 8 1943 McMullen was posted to 53 OTU, Kirton-in-Lindsey, as a Squadron Leader, but in September he went to HQ 93 Group, for fighter liaison duties. McMullen retired from the RAF on December 16 1957, as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. He died on July 1 1985. His portrait was drawn by Cuthbert Orde.

PO (AAF) 16.5.36 FO (AAF) 16.11.37 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 25.7.44

GEORGE SUTHERLAND MURRAY MacLEOD Sgt

Wop/AG

British

235 Squadron

MacLeod, of Dornoch, Sutherlandshire, joined the RAF as a Boy Entrant in February 1939. He later volunteered for flying duties and remustered as an Airman u/t Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. With training completed, MacLeod joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton in September 1940. He flew his first sortie on the 21st. MacLeod was killed on March 23 1941, still with 235 Squadron, aged 18. His pilot, Sergeant C R Evans was killed at the same time. Both men are remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, MacLeod on Panel 47 and Evans on Panel 43.

ANDREW CRAWFORD RANKIN McLURE 82167

PO

Pilot

British

54 and 222 Squadrons

Born at Godstone, Surrey, on December 6 1917, McMullen was at Cheltenham College from 1928 to 1931. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 31 1937. He was posted to 6 FTS, Netheravon on September 18.

He joined 602 Squadron, AAF in 1936. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939 and on December 22 he shared in the destruction of a He 111, which was laying mines fifteen miles E of the Isle of May. MacLean shared in damaging a He 111 over the Firth of Forth on January 13 1940. On July 7 1940 MacLean shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 and on August 18 he damaged a Ju 87. He was shot down on August 26, seriously wounded. He made a crash-landing at Tangmere and was admitted to the Royal West Sussex Hospital at Chichester, where his right leg was amputated. He was non-effective sick and supernumerary at RAF Tangmere from August 26 to October 23 1940, when he was posted away to Drem, as a supernumerary. MacLean stayed in the RAF and was released in 1945 as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. He rejoined the family law firm. He died on July 19 2007.

553787

British

87 Squadron

McLure who came from Craigmillar, Edinburgh, joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748113). He was called up on September 1, completed his training, was commissioned and joined 87 Squadron at Church Fenton on June 18 1940. In an action with Bf 109s off Portland Bill on August 11 he claimed one destroyed and another probably destroyed. He then made a forced-landing near Warmwell, wounded in one leg. His next operational sortie was on August 30, a patrol. McLure destroyed a Bf 109 and a Bf 110 on September 30 and also damaged a Ju 88 and a Do 17. He joined 51 OTU, Debden from 54 OTU, Church Fenton on August 22 1941. McLure was with 605 Squadron at Ford in early July 1942 as a Flight Lieutenant. He was killed on July 20, when the Havoc he was flying collided with another of the squadron, during a practice flight. All six men in the two aircraft were killed, including three Canadian soldiers being taken for a ride. McLure was 24. He is buried in Littlehampton Cemetery, Sussex.

APO 9.8.37 PO 9.7.38 FO 9.2.40 FL 9.2.41 SL 1.3.42 SL 1.9.45

ERNEST ARCHIBALD McNAB C 134

SL

Pilot

Canadian

1 (RCAF) and 111 Squadrons

Born in 1905, McNab joined the RCAF in 1926. Before the war he had flown more than 2,000 hours and, apart from normal service duties, he had carried mails to Ottawa and made a photographic survey of the Hudson Bay area.

PO 18.6.40 FO 18.6.41 FL 18.6.42 In September 1937 McNab was appointed a Flight Commander in 46 Squadron at Kenley. He was on an exchange attachment from the RCAF and was still in England when the war started. McNab returned to Canada and took command of No 1 (RCAF) Squadron at St Hubert in November 1939. He was leading the squadron, when it arrived in the UK on June 20 1940. To gain operational experience, he was attached to 111 Squadron from August 11 to 15, when both the squadrons

JOHN REGINALD McMAHON 49290

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

235 Squadron

McMahon, of Norwich, joined the RAF in September 1938, as a Boy Entrant (552712). He later remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG and with training completed, he was on 235 Squadron by June 25 1940.

were based at Croydon. On August 15 McNab claimed a Do 17 destroyed, flying with 111. On the 26th McNab claimed a Do 17 destroyed. On this sortie he made a forced-landing at Duxford, in Hurricane P 3069, after being damaged by return fire from a Do 17 during a German bombing raid on Debden. On September 7 and 9 McNab probably destroyed Bf 109s, on the 11th he damaged a He 111, on the 15th destroyed a He 111 and damaged another and on the 27th he

Commissioned in June 1942, he was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. McMahon joined the Suffolk police. He was killed in a motor cycle accident in 1949, aged 26, and buried in an unmarked grave. In a ceremony at Earlham Cemetery, Norwich on September 15 1997, McMahon’s grave was rededicated and marked and a memorial bench, with two plaques, was also unveiled. PO 27.6.42 FO 27.12.42 FL 27.6.44

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

ALEXANDER LOGAN McNAY

destroyed a Bf 110 and shared in the destruction of a Ju 88. McNab was awarded the DFC (22.10.40). On November 2 1940 he relinquished command of No 1 (RCAF) Squadron and joined HQ 9 Group on the 9th, as an Acting Wing Commander. He went to 5 B&GS, Jurby from 9 Group on December 11 1940. McNab returned to Canada and in June 1941. He was given command of 118 Squadron and took it to Dartmouth, Nova Scotia for East coast defence duties. McNab was made an OBE (13.6.46) and also held the Czech Military Cross. He retired from the RCAF in October 1957 as a Group Captain and settled in Vancouver.

741569

Sgt

Pilot

British

3 and 249 Squadrons

He joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745416) and he began his flying training at 16 E&RFTS, Shoreham. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 7 1940. He converted to Spitfires and joined 3 Squadron at Wick on July 28, where he flew Hurricanes. On September 28 McNair was posted to 249 Squadron at North Weald. He went to 96 Squadron, when it was formed at Cranage on December 18 1940. He destroyed a He 111 over Liverpool on March 12 1941. With his tour completed, McNair was posted to a night-fighter OTU, as an instructor. He was commissioned in November 1941. In early 1942 McNair joined 87 Squadron at Charmy Down and flew with the squadron in the Dieppe operation on August 19. He was awarded the DFC (22.9.42). In October he was posted to 245 Squadron at Middle Wallop and became a Flight Commander in early 1943. McNair was given command of 247 Squadron at Merston in January 1944 and led the squadron to Normandy in June. Whilst leading it on an armed reconnaissance in July, his Typhoon was hit by flak and his engine failed. McNair glided over enemy lines through intense fire and landed in a field. He was posted away in August, became CFI at 55 OTU, Aston Down and was awarded a Bar to the DFC (26.9.44). In 1945 McNair converted to Meteors and was in command of 74 Squadron, when he was released from the RAF in January 1946. He died in May 1996.

ALFRED RIPPON DUKE MACONOCHIE 47418

British

Wop/AG British

235 Squadron

Commissioned in October 1941, Maconochie stayed on in the RAF, in the Aircraft Control Branch. He retired on March 2 1960, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. PO 27.10.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 27.10.43 FL 1.9.45

JAMES FREDERICK JOHN MACPHAIL 42014

PO

Pilot

British

603 Squadron

Macphail joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 6 1939, as a pupil pilot. After completing his training, he was posted to 26 Squadron in France, to fly Lysanders. In August 1940 Macphail volunteered for Fighter Command and on the 21st he was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down, where he converted to Spitfires. He joined 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 31 and damaged a He 111 on September 9, destroyed a He 111 and damaged another on the 11th and destroyed a Bf 109 on the 15th. His last recorded 603 sortie in the ORB was made by Macphail on September 23, a patrol over Dover. He baled out, injured, after his Spitfire was hit. There is no further mention of him in the ORB and it seems he was posted away in October or November 1940. Whilst ferrying Spitfire P 8016 from 6 MU to 74 Squadron at Hawkinge on February 20 1941, Macphail lost control of the aircraft and baled out. The Spitfire crashed at Oak’s Park, near Wallington, Surrey. On March 4 he crashed a Spitfire at Belmont, Surrey, whilst carrying out an air test. At some time Macphail underwent plastic surgery at the Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead and became a Guinea Pig. He did not fly operationally again after this. Macphail was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant, and he died in 1963.

BRIAN RADLEY MacNAMARA Pilot

Sgt

Maconochie was born on May 12 1916. He joined the RAF in November 1938, as an Aircrafthand (627058). He later volunteered for aircrew and remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. With training completed, he joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on July 16 1940.

PO 26.11.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 26.11.43

FO

73 Squadron

He was attached to 4 (C) Ferry Pilot Pool from 4 B&GS on May 18 1940. Posted from there to France on May 29, McNay joined 73 Squadron at Gaye on May 31. He was missing in France on June 15 1940, after being shot down by a Bf 109 and wounded in the shoulder. He was eventually found at a hospital in England on July 3, at Stoke-Devonport. McNay was afterwards at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge and he rejoined 73 Squadron at Church Fenton on July 21. He claimed two Ju 88s destroyed on August 15. Following a combat over Burnham on September 5, McNay’s Hurricane, P 3224, crashed and burned out at White House Farm, North Fambridge. He was reported ‘Missing’, aged 22. McNay is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 17.

McNair was born on May 21 1918 in London and he was educated at Gaveney House, Hampstead and Douai Schools.

25123

Pilot British

McNay, of Shawlands, Glasgow, joined the RAFVR in May 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and probably went to 4 B&GS, West Freugh, as a staff pilot.

ROBIN JOHN McNAIR 112522

Sgt

603 Squadron

Born on June 2 1915, MacNamara entered Royal Military College, Sandhurst, as a Gentleman Cadet. When he graduated on January 31 1935 he was commissioned in the Royal Tank Corps. He was seconded to the RAF from the Army on November 8 1938. After completing his flying training in September 1939, he was posted to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum. On October 8 1939 he joined 614 Squadron at Odiham, flying Lysanders. He volunteered for Fighter Command in August 1940 and on the 21st he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden. After converting to Spitfires, he was posted to 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on

APO 29.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41

JAMES McPHEE

August 31. He shared in the destruction of a He 111 on the 7th, damaged a He 111 on the 11th, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 14th, damaged a Do 17 on the 15th and damaged a Bf 109 on the 27th. On November 23 he destroyed a CR 42 and on the 29th he shared in destroying a Do 17. MacNamara returned to 614 Squadron at Macmerry on February 1 1941 and stayed with it until August 5 1942, when he was posted to 296 Squadron at Hurn, a Whitley squadron for moving troops in Horsa gliders. On March 8 1943 he took command of 295 Squadron on similar duties. MacNamara towed the glider carrying General Gale, GOC 6th Airborne Division, to Normandy on D Day. In early 1945 MacNamara went to RAF Staff College, after which he was posted to the Far East. He took command of 31 Squadron at Akyab, Burma on September 15 1945. MacNamara was awarded the DSO (4.6.46) and was made a CBE (13.6.57) for distinguished services in operations in the Near East in October to December 1956. He retired on June 4 1965, as an Air Commodore.

146128

Sgt

Pilot

British

151 and 249 Squadrons

Born on August 3 1919, McPhee joined the RAFVR in November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742452) and had carried out some flying training before being called up at the outbreak of war. After ITW, he was posted to 10 EFTS, Yatesbury on May 1 1940. He went on to 2 FTS, Brize Norton for No 48 Course, which ran from June 1 to August 31 1940. McPhee arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 1, where he converted to Hurricanes. On September 18 McPhee joined 151 Squadron at Digby. On the 24th he collided with Pilot Officer J K Haviland during a formation practice and the tail of his Hurricane, P 3306, was knocked off. McPhee baled out, unhurt. On September 29 he was posted to 249 Squadron at North Weald and then to 17 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on November 20. McPhee went to CFS, Upavon on January 21 1941, for an instructor’s course, after which he was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose. He went to South Africa on July 29 and instructed at 24 Air School until May 18 1942 and then 27 Air School.

FO 8.11.38 FL 8.11.40 SL 1.12.41 WC 1.7.47 GC 1.1.56 AC 1.1.61

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

He made a forced-landing at Snoadstreet Farm, Throwley and was admitted to Hothfield Hospital, with a cut eye. He rejoined 615 on September 14. Madle was posted to 605 Squadron at Croydon on September 28. He made his final flight with 605, a patrol and combat, on October 7 1940. In late 1940 Madle was posted to the Middle East. He later served in Burma. Madle was released from the RAF in 1947. He flew as a Captain with Dan Air, BEA and BOAC and was later Chief Pilot and Operations Manager with Gulf Aviation, Bahrain. His last job was as Manager of Air Freight at Lympne. Madle had two heart bypass operations. He died on January 31 1984.

Commissioned from Warrant Officer in October 1942, he was awarded the AFC (1.1.43) and posted back to the UK in July 1944. He went to 13 OTU, Harwell on October 17 and then joined 45 Squadron in the Far East on February 19 1945 and served with it until November 27, when he returned to the UK for release. McPhee rejoined the RAF on July 24 1951 and served at home and overseas prior to his retirement on June 1 1968 as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 16.10.42 FO 16.4.43 FL 16.10.44 FO 13.2.49 FL 4.12.52

ROBERT REID MACPHERSON 45459

F/Sgt

Pilot

British

PO 18.6.40 FO 18.6.41 FL 18.6.42

65 Squadron

GERARD HAMILTON MAFFETT

Macpherson, of Dinas Powis, Glamorgan, was educated at Barry County Secondary School and joined the RAF in January 1930, as an Aircraft Apprentice (564238). He passed out in September 1932, as a Fitter, Aero Engines.

80814

IAN NICHOLSON MacRAE British

FIU

MacRae was educated at McLaren High School, Callender, Perthshire. He joined the RAF on September 1 1931, as an Aircraft Apprentice, and passed out in August 1934, as a Metal Rigger.

PO 9.6.40

He later applied for pilot training and was selected. He was posted from RAF Hucknall to 23 Squadron on September 15 1939. MacRae was one of the original members of the Fighter Interception Unit, when it was formed at Tangmere. He joined it on April 17 1940. An entry in the Unit ORB for March 9 1941 states ‘Gave up flying and ceased to have any effective connection with the FIU’. No further service details traced.

MERVYN HENRY MAGGS 79359

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

With training completed, he was on 23 Squadron at Collyweston by June 7 1940, as an LAC Air Gunner. By July 9 he was a Sergeant. MacRory was killed on January 3 1941, still with 23, aged 21. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 48.

SYDNEY JAMES MADLE PO

Pilot

British

Air Gunner

British

264 Squadron

Maggs joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman under training for Operations Room duties (770096). Called up on September 1, he served in the Operations Room at 11 Group. In November 1939 Maggs volunteered for aircrew duties and remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. He was posted to the Gunnery School at Penrhos in February 1940. Commissioned in April, Maggs was posted on May 3 to 78 Squadron, operating in Whitleys from Linton-on-Ouse. On June 9 1940 Maggs joined 264 Squadron at Duxford. He was detached to CGS, Warmwell on the 15th, for a Gunnery Leaders’ Course. Whilst there, he crashed on July 2 and was seriously injured. His Defiant, L 6982, crashed on Warmwell aerodrome, just after take-off. The pilot, Squadron Leader E C Ingham, was killed. After take-off, the aircraft turned back, flying slowly at about 100 feet, descended to about 30 feet, went into a steep bank and then dived into the ground. Maggs sustained a broken neck. He was non-effective sick, attached to Warmwell from July 2 to August 12 1940 and then attached to CGS from August 12 to September 8, when he rejoined 264 Squadron, then based at Kirton-in-Lindsey, and began flying night operations. Maggs was posted away to 287 Squadron on June 16 1942 and then to 605 Squadron at Ford in October, to fly in Bostons. He was awarded the DFC (9.3.43), the citation stating ‘During a long career, he has displayed exceptional keeness and unswerving devotion to duty. He has destroyed two enemy aircraft at night’. Maggs was released from the RAF in 1945. He died in November 1987, at the time the oldest survivor of those who flew with the RAF in the Battle of Britain.

23 Squadron

MacRory, of Penge, Kent, joined 601 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939 and later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner.

86323

PO

Born at Axbridge in October 1899, Maggs served in an infantry regiment in the Great War, before transferring to the RFC in 1918 and training as a Camel pilot.

HARRY IAN MacRORY 801456

257 Squadron

Maffett went to 12 FTS, Grantham on December 30, completed the course in early June, was commissioned and then sent to No 2 School of Army Co-operation at Andover on the 15th, as a supermumerary. He went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 22 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 257 Squadron at Northolt on July 7 1940. Maffett made his first operational sortie on the 19th. On August 18 he destroyed a Do 17 and damaged a He 111. He was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 110s over Clacton on August 31. His Hurricane, P 3175, crashed at Walton-on-the-Naze. Maffett is buried in Windsor Road Cemetery, Bray, Berkshire. The orginal IWGC wooden cross was retained at the request of his mother. His family has provided protection from the elements for the cross in recent years. His brother, Wing Commander J F Maffett, died on February 12 1942, circumstances unknown. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial. He was 29.

PO 27.11.40 FO 19.9.41

Sgt Pilot

Pilot British

Born in Murree, India on June 11 1916, Maffett was educated at the Imperial Service College, Windsor. He left in 1934 and went to work for the Daily Mail in London. On April 30 1938 Maffett joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741503), and did his weekend flying on Tiger Moths at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham. Called up on September 1 1939, he was posted to No 1 ITW, Cambridge in early November.

He later applied for pilot training and was selected. With training completed, Macpherson was with 65 Squadron from 1937. Over Dunkirk on May 27 1940, he shared in the destruction of a Do 17 and probably destroyed a Bf 110. He damaged a Do 17 in the Dover area on July 24, claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on August 12, shared another on the 14th and probably destroyed one on the 20th. Commissioned in November 1940, he was with 129 Squadron in the late summer of 1941. On September 2 he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 sixty miles E of Flamborough Head. Macpherson was killed on October 13 1941, as a Flight Lieutenant with 129 Squadron. He was shot down in combat with Bf 109s during a sweep over the Arques area of France. He was 27 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 29.

565633

PO

615 and 605 Squadrons

Born at Strood, Kent on January 13 1921, Madle was educated at Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School and afterwards worked for South Eastern Electricity at Rochester. He joined the RAFVR in January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742909) and carried out his elementary flying at 23 E&RFTS at Rochester. Called to full-time service on September 2 1939, Madle completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 45 Course, which ran from December 11 1939 to June 10 1940. With training completed and commissioned, Madle joined 615 Squadron at Kenley on June 18 1940. He was detached to RAF Uxbridge on the 21st, for a short course on R/T procedure. On July 27 he shared in the destruction of a He 59 E off North Foreland, on August 24 he destroyed a He 111 and on the 28th the engine of his Hurricane, R 4116, was hit by return fire from a Do 17 over Sandwich.

PO 7.4.40 FO 7.4.41 FL 7.4.42

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

HAROLD JOHN MAGUIRE

ARTHUR EDWARD MAKINS

34048

47579

SL

Pilot

British

229 Squadron

F/Sgt

Pilot

British

247 Squadron

Born in Kilkishen, Co Clare, Ireland on April 12 1912, Maguire was educated at Wesley College and Trinity College, Dublin. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his flying training on March 24 1933, as a pupil pilot. On April 4 he was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham, for the intermediate and advanced flying course.

Makins was born in Thetford on January 29 1915 and educated at the Grammar School there. He joined the RAF in January 1932, as an Aircraft Apprentice (565992), and trained at the Electrical and Wireless School at Cranwell.

With training completed, he went on a course to RAF Calshot on March 11 1934 and on December 1 joined 230 (Flying Boat) Squadron at Pembroke Dock, serving with it in Egypt and the Far East. Back in the UK Maguire was posted to CFS, Upavon on January 22 1939, for an instructors’ course. He was granted a medium service commission on March 24 1939. Maguire reformed and commanded 229 Squadron at Digby from October 6 1939. Over Dunkirk on May 28 1940 Maguire damaged a Do 17. He was posted away to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 6 1940, to be Squadron Leader i/c Flying. In late 1941 he was posted to Singapore, as Wing Commander Flying of the proposed 266 Wing. After the fall of Singapore, the RAF went to Sumatra but the speed of the Japanese advance made any organised aerial defence impossible. In mid-February 1942 Maguire led the ground defence of P1 Airfield at Palembang, Sumatra against Japanese paratroops but he was eventually captured by the Japanese and was a PoW until August 1945 After returning to the UK, Maguire was appointed Station Commander at RAF Lintonon-Ouse, Yorkshire. From 1950 to 1952 he commanded RAF Odiham and moved to Malta in 1955 as Senior Air Staff Officer. He was made Deputy Chief of the Defence Staff in 1965 and he retired from the RAF on September 28 1968 as an Air Marshal. Maguire received three Mentions in Despatches, 1940, 1942 and 1946 and the DSO (1.10.46) He was made an OBE (2.1.50), a CB (1958) and was created KCB (1966). After retirement, until 1972, Maguire was Director-General of Intelligence at the Ministry of Defence. He died in February 2001.

After passing out as a Wireless/ Electrical Mechanic, Makins was in Egypt in 1935/36 and Palestine in 1936/37. Back in the UK in late 1937, he was flying as a Wireless Operator with 206 Squadron at Bircham Newton. Makins volunteered for pilot training, was selected and on October 6 1938 Makins began his ab initio course at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble. On January 2 1939 he moved on to 2 FTS, Brize Norton and on completion of the course, he joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 6. At that time training flights were not permitted in the London area and Makins was offered a choice; either to stay with 54 and train later or go to the Fighter Pool at St Athan. He chose the latter and went to St Athan on September 20 1939 but was not there long enough to carry out fighter attack training because he was posted to 263 Squadron at Filton on October 2, as a replacement for a Sergeant-Pilot injured in a car accident. Gladiators were not to Makins’ liking and he asked for a posting back to Spitfires and went to 41 Squadron at Catterick on November 25. In early January 1940 41 was asked to send a pilot with Gladiator experience for two weeks to Sumburgh, Shetland, to join the Fighter Flight there, formed to counter previously unopposed raids. Makins went on January 6 1940 and on the 12th the Flight was transferred from Fighter Command to Coastal Command. Makins remained with the Flight and was still with it on July 21 1940, when it began to move to Roborough in stages, again back in Fighter Command. Once there it was redesignated 247 Squadron on August 1. On June 2 1941 he was posted to 60 OTU, East Fortune, as an instructor on night fighters. The unit later became 132 (Coastal) OTU, with Beaufighters. Makins was commissioned in December 1941. On August 31 1943 Makins went as a pupil to 2 (Coastal) OTU at Catfoss and joined 236 Squadron at North Coates on October 11, on Beaufighters. He was posted to 2 APC, Docking on January 12 1944, moved to a course at 2 FIS, Montrose on December 6 1944, after which he went to 3(P) AFU at Morton Valence on April 11 1945, as an instructor. Makins was released from the RAF on December 3 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant.

APO 24.3.33 PO 24.3.34 FL 24.9.35 FL 24.9.37 SL 1.6.39 WC 1.6.41 WC 1.10.46 GC 1.1.52 AC 1.1.58 AVM 1.1.60 AM 1.1.66

TIMOTHY JOSEPH MAHONEY Petty Officer (FAA)

Pilot

British

804 Squadron

Mahoney carried out his elementary flying training at 24 FTS, Sydenham, Northern Ireland. He went on to 7 FTS, Peterborough for No 7 (FAA) Course, from December 11 1939 to May 27 1940.

PO 15.12.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 15.12.43

ADOLPH GYSBERT MALAN

With training completed, Mahoney joined 804 Squadron at Hatston, flying Gladiators on dockyard defence. On October 31 1940 he landed on muddy ground at Skeabrae after his first flight in a Martlet. The aircraft tipped over but he was unhurt. Commissioned after the war, Mahoney retired in 1958 as a Lieutenant-Commander. He died on August 1 1977.

37604

Pilot

British

249 Squadron

Main joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and went to 5 OTU, Aston Down in early May 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 249 Squadron at Leconfield on the 28th and joined it on the 29th. On July 8 he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 off Hornsea. Taking off on July 16, Main’s engine failed and he was killed when his Hurricane, P 2995, crashed and burned out in Copmanthorpe Wood. He was 22. Main was cremated at Dundee Crematorium.

HEDLEY RONALD MAIN 751420

Sgt

Observer

British

South African

74 Squadron

Malan joined the Royal Naval Reserve on February 19 1932 as an Acting Sub-Lieutenant and he was commissioned as a Sub-Lieutenant on June 18 1935. Later in 1935 Malan applied for a short service commission in the RAF, was accepted and began his elementary flying training at 2 E&RFTS, Filton on January 6 1936, as a pupil pilot. On March 1 1936 Malan relinquished his RNR commission. He went on to 3 FTS, Grantham on March 14 and with training completed, he joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on December 20 1936. Malan was made a Flight Commander in late 1937. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on March 2 1939 and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant. Near Dunkirk on May 21 1940, he destroyed a Ju 88, probably a He 111 and damaged a second Ju 88, on the 22nd he shared a Ju 88, on the 24th he shared a Do 17 and destroyed a He 111 and on the 27th he destroyed a Bf 109, shared a probable Do 17 and damaged two others. He was awarded the DFC (11.6.40). During the night of June 18/19 1940 Malan destroyed two He 111s. He shared a He 111 on July 12, got a probable Bf 109 on the 19th, damaged another on the 25th and destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another on the 28th. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (31.7.40). Malan relinquished command of ‘A’ Flight on August 8 and took command of 74 Squadron as an Acting Squadron Leader. He destroyed two Bf 109s and damaged a third on the 11th and destroyed a Do 17 and probably another on the 13th. Malan destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged another on September 11, got a probable Bf 109 on October 17, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 22nd, another on November 23, destroyed one and shared another on the 27th and shot down another on December 2. He was awarded the DSO (24.12.40). He destroyed a Bf 109 on February 2 1941 and shared a Do 17 on the 5th. He was posted away from 74 Squadron on March 10 1941, to lead the Biggin Hill Wing. Between May 17 and July 24 1941 Malan destroyed twelve Bf 109s, probably destroyed one, shared two and damaged nine others. He was awarded a Bar to the DSO (22.7.41) and

ALISTAIR DAVID WILLIAM MAIN Sgt

Pilot

Malan was born in Wellington, South Africa on October 3 1910. In February 1924 he became a cadet on the training ship General Botha and joined the Union Castle Steamship Line in 1927.

Lt 1.1.46

748115

FL

25 Squadron

Main joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1, he went to 4 ITW, Bexhill, after which he joined No 11 Air Observer Navigation School on November 20 1939. Main was now an Airman u/t Observer and he was put on No 1 Air Observer Course there, which ran from November 20 to March 9 1940. He then went to a B&GS, for a course which ran from March 11 to May 4 1940. Main joined 25 Squadron at Martlesham Heath about August 20 and flew his first operational sortie on the 23rd. He was killed on August 27 1941, as a Flight Sergeant with 109 Squadron. This unit was flying in Ansons and Wellingtons from Boscombe Down, developing radio countermeasures and radar aids. Main is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 37.

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Males shared in the destruction of a Do 215 on September 10 but was hit by return fire and then his Spitfire, K 9841, was further damaged when his undercarriage collapsed in a forced-landing at Little Hitchings Farm, Etchingham. Males claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on September 14. He was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 109s over Sevenoaks on the 27th. His Spitfire, X 4340, crashed at Shadwell Dock, Stepney, London. He was 20 and is buried in the Great Northern London Cemetery.

on August 9 he was appointed CFI at 58 OTU, Grangemouth. Two months later Malan was sent to the USA, with five other pilots, to lecture and liaise with the US Army Air Corps. Back in the UK in late 1941, Malan was posted to Sutton Bridge, to command the CGS. On January 1 1943 he was appointed Station Commander, Biggin Hill. He often flew on operations over the next few months but scored no further victories. Biggin Hill Sector claimed its 1000th victory on May 15 1943. Malan was posted away on October 7 and after sick leave he took command of 19 Fighter Wing, 2nd TAF on November 1. In March 1944 he took command of 145 Wing at Merston, composed of three French squadrons, 329, 340 and 341. He flew a Ramrod sortie on D Day, leading Yellow Section of 340 Squadron, escorting Albemarles towing Horsa gliders. Malan was made CO of the Advanced Gunnery School at Catfoss in July 1944. He did a course at RAF Staff College in 1945 but decided not to stay in the RAF. He was released in 1946, as a Group Captain, and returned with his family to South Africa. After a long period of poor health, he died there on September 17 1963. He received a civic funeral from the City of Kimberley, during which thousands of people lined streets as the cortege made its way from the cathedral to the cemetery. As well as his British awards, Malan received the C de G (Belg) (4.11.41), the C de G (Fr), the French Légion d’Honneur and the Czech Military Cross. His portrait was done by Eric Kennington and Cuthbert Orde.

PO 18.6.40

BRONISLAW MALINOWSKI P 3036

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

Malinowski was born on February 12 1912 in Lwow, Poland. He arrived in the UK on July 13 1940 and he was sent to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting.

APO 2.3.36 PO 6.1.37 FO 6.7.38 FL 6.7.40 SL 10.6.41 WC 1.9.42

ROGER FERNAND FULGEANCE MALENGREAU 82160

PO

Pilot

Belgian

43 Squadron

Malinowski was posted to 307 Squadron at Kirton-inLindsey on September 10. The squadron was to be the first Polish night-fighter squadron but training ceased when the pilots were posted away to join day-fighter squadrons. Malinowski went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum for the 8th Polish Pilots’ Course from October 9 to 16 1940, for testing and grading. He then went to 5 OTU, Aston Down, converted to Hurricanes and joined 43 Squadron at Usworth on October 25 1940. On the 31st he was flying with Green section of 43, which was ordered to investigate an X-raid over the sea. It was reported that a Hurricane was down in the sea. Malinowski’s engine had cut and Tyne Naval had been alerted and had ordered out a speed boat. Soon afterwards the Hurricane was reported to be OK and the speed boat was cancelled. However, some time later the same Hurricane was again reported to be possibly in trouble. Once again the speed boat was alerted but cancelled again when the aircraft was later reported to have made a successful forced-landing near Havelow Farm, Chirnside, Berwick. Malinowski was unhurt. In early December he was posted to 501 Squadron at Kenley. He was slightly injured on December 8 but no details are known. On April 11 1941 he joined 302 Squadron at Westhampnett. Malinowski probably destroyed a Bf 109 on December 30 1941. He was awarded the KW (20.2.42) and with his tour completed, he went to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on May 6, as an instructor. Malinowski returned to 302 Squadron, then at Heston, on November 10 1942. He went to West Kirby on February 13 1943, to prepare for overseas and on March 13 he arrived in the Middle East in a C 47 with other Polish pilots, to form the Polish Fighting Team, otherwise known as Skalski’s Circus. They were attached to 145 Squadron and operated in the Western Desert from March 17 to May 12 and destroyed 30 enemy aircraft. Malinowski destroyed a Bf 109 on April 7. Back in the UK, he rejoined 302 Squadron on July 22 1943. Over France on September 8, he destroyed two Bf 109s and was then shot down and crashed, with leg injuries. Malinowski evaded capture and returned to England in December, rejoining 302 on the 13th. He was awarded two Bars to the KW (20.12.43). On March 25 1944 Malinowski went to No 1 ADU, Croydon and he returned to 302, then at Chailey, on June 29. He was awarded the DFC (25.9.44), the VM (5th Class) (25.9.44) and a third Bar to the KW (30.12.44) and the C de G (Fr). He joined 133 Wing on the Continent on March 18 1945. He was commissioned from Warrant Officer in June 1945 and was released from the PAF in January 1947 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in May 1982.

87 Squadron

Born in Brussels on August 1 1914, Malengreau entered the Royal Military Academy in Belgium. Graduating in November 1936, he was commissioned and joined the Aviation Militaire Belge. He was at the School of Navigation in 1937 and qualified as a pilot in 1938. Malengreau joined an Army Co-operation Squadron, flying Fairey Foxes. The squadron moved to an airfield near Liege on May 10 1940 but was wiped out by enemy action, mostly on the ground, on the 12th. The pilots escaped to France but there were no replacement aircraft found for them. On June 21 the French signed an Armistice with the Germans and the Belgians were told to stay put. With other pilots, Malengreau reached Port Vendres, where, with the help of a British destroyer and the support of the Belgian Embassy in London, they caught a passing convoy and embarked on the SS Apapa on the 24th. After arriving in Liverpool on July 7, the Belgians went to Beeston Castle, Cheshire until July 13, when they were moved to 7 S of TT. Malengreau was commissioned in the RAFVR and posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 19th and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 87 Squadron at Exeter on August 12 and flew his first interception patrol the next day. Malengreau was posted to 56 Squadron at North Weald on December 8 1940 and flew in the early sweeps over Northern France. He moved to 609 Squadron at Biggin Hill on April 7 1941 and on June 30 he shared a probable Bf 109 with Paul Richey, on a Blenheimescort to Lens. In October 1942 Malengreau left 609, having then carried out 178 operational sorties. He was offered the job of forming a new Belgian squadron, 349. After acceptance, he found that its base was to be in Lagos, Nigeria. Malengreau arrived in West Africa on January 1 1943. On the voyage from the UK, the planes on the ship’s deck were smashed by severe gales. At his request, the squadron was recalled to the UK in June 1943 and Malengreau relinquished his command and went on sick leave. In October 1943 he was posted to HQ Fighter Command. In May 1944 he was on a twinengine conversion course but was recalled to Bentley Priory for D Day. Malengreau asked for special service and was detached in July to the 12th US Army Group, with which he witnessed the liberation of Paris and Brussels. When Belgium was completely liberated, Malengreau became a liaison officer between SHAFE and the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Malengreau began a career in the Belgian Foreign Service in August 1945, during the course of which he served in China and Africa and was Ambassador to Malaysia, Singapore and later Chile. He was made an honorary CBE in 1988 by Britain. He died in June 1996.

PO 9.6.45 FO 9.12.45

JAN LEONARD MALINSKI P 1286

PO

Pilot

Polish

302 Squadron

PO 19.7.40 FO 19.7.41 FL 19.7.42 Born on March 1 1917, Malinski was in the PAF before the war. In the September 1939 fighting he destroyed at least two enemy aircraft, flying with 132 Eskadra.

ERNEST EDWARD MALES 82661

PO

Pilot

British

72 Squadron

Malinski arrived in England on June 27 1940 and went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. He joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield on August 20. He was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 2, converted to Hurricanes and rejoined 302 on the 26th. Malinski was posted to RAF Northolt on November 6 1940, as non-effective sick but no details are known. He destroyed a Ju 88 on March 3 1941. Malinski was posted to the 307 Squadron Operations Room on June 28, moved to the Operations Room at RAF Exeter on May 20 1942 and returned to the 307 Operations Room on December 1 1943.

Males, of Southgate, London, joined the RAFVR about January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742931). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and was commissioned on June 18 1940. He joined 72 Squadron at Acklington on the 19th. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and a Bf 110 damaged on September 2. Two days later Males baled out of Spitfire R 6971, when it was set alight during combat with Bf 110s. The aircraft crashed on Culvers Farm, Hartfield.

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that he committed suicide. He was then serving as a Wing Commander with the Inspectorate of the Czech Air Force. He is buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery.

Malinski returned to flying duties with 307 on September 16 1944. He was awarded the KW (27.9.45). In September 1945 he was posted to Transport Command and was released late in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He settled in England and at some time worked for Lancashire Aircraft Group and Eagle Aviation. It has also been stated that Malinski flew Halifaxes in the 1948 Berlin Airlift and that he also flew with a secret CIA unit, dropping agents into the Balkans in 1951. No evidence has been found of these activities. Malinski settled in Britain after the war but later went to live in Canada and returned to Poland in the late 1970s. He died on February 6 2006.

PO 13.7.40 FL 1.3.41

ANDREW MAMEDOFF 81621

PO

Pilot

American

Born on August 24 1912, Mamedoff grew up in Thompson, Connecticut. He learned to fly and performed at air shows. He bought his own aeroplane and tried to develop a charter service in the Miami area, later moving it to California.

PO 1.3.41 FO 1.3.42 FL 1.3.43

RONALD SPENCER MALLETT 158594

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

29 Squadron In late 1939 he volunteered for flying in the war in Finland. When the war ended, Mamedoff was told he would be able to fly with l’Armée de l’Air. With fellow Americans, V C Keough and E Q Tobin, he went to Paris, via Canada. The May 1940 blitzkrieg had already started when they arrived and the men were virtually ignored. They joined two Czech pilots in an attempt to steal two Potez bombers to fly to England but the scheme failed and the Czechs were killed by

Mallett joined 601 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand (801568). Called to full-time service on August 24 1939, he remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. He may have been one of a group of 601 airmen who began their gunnery training with the squadron in the latter part of 1939. In March 1940 they were sent to 5 BGS, Jurby for No 7B (Fighter) Air Gunner Course, which ran from March 11 to 23. This was a special course for partially-trained air gunners from fighter squadrons. On returning to 601 they found the squadron had replaced its Blenheims with Hurricanes. In May 1940 they were posted to other Blenheim squadrons. Mallett was with 29 Squadron at Digby by June 27. He served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain and was still with it on December 8 1940. After the introduction of airborne radar, he retrained as a Radio Observer. Commissioned in October 1943, Mallett was awarded the DFC (9.6.44), as a Flying Officer with 141 Squadron, operating in Mosquitos from West Raynham. He was credited with assisting in the destruction of two enemy aircraft at night. Mallett was killed on June 28 1944. He is buried in Woensel General Cemetery, Eindhoven, Netherlands.

French guards. The Americans made their way to St Jean de Luz, where they managed to board a ship and arrived in England on June 26. They eventually reached London and after some initial problems, they were accepted by the RAF and granted direct-entry commissions in the RAFVR. They went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 7 1940, converted to Spitfires and joined 609 Squadron at Middle Wallop on August 8. Mamedoff flew his first operational sortie with 609 on August 16, a patrol of Warmwell. He flew his last on September 18, a patrol, Brooklands-Northolt. Still together, the three Americans were posted away to Church Fenton on September 19 1940, to become the first three members of 71 (Eagle) Squadron, about to be formed with American volunteers. Mamedoff was posted to Coltishall on August 1 1941, to be a Flight Commander in 133 Squadron, the second American volunteer unit. In a squadron move from Fowlmere to Eglinton, Northern Ireland on October 8 1941, fifteen pilots took off. They landed at Sealand to refuel and then headed for Andreas, in the Isle of Man. Four failed to arrive, one of whom was Mamedoff. His body was recovered and he is buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery, Woking.

PO 1.10.43 FO 2.4.44

JAROSLAV MALY 81909

PO

Pilot

609 Squadron

Czechoslovakian

310 Squadron

PO 7.7.40

Maly was born in Prague on July 17 1905. He joined the Czechoslovak Air Force and attended the Military Aviation Academy at Hranice. During the 1930s he represented the Czechoslovak Air Force in numerous international and domestic air competitions as a pilot and judge. Between 1936 and 1939 he was the Air Attaché at the Czechoslovak Embassy in Berlin. With the rising tensions between Czechoslovakia and Nazi Germany he managed to destroy all military records held at the Embassy and returned to his home country before the German occupation of Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939 He was demobilised two days later. He then escaped from Czechoslovakia and travelled to France. On arrival, due to his rank and command experience, he was assigned to the Czechoslovak Military Administration, in Paris. On April 15 he was transferred to Centre d’Instruction de Chasse (CIC), at Chartres, for re-training to French equipment. Due to the rapid advance of the German forces during the Battle of France he was not sent to an operational unit of l’Armee de l’Air but was posted to Patrouille Defence Aerienne due Territoire (DAT) to defend Chartres airbase against attack. On June 13 1940, with the collapse of France imminent, he, and the other Czechoslovak, airmen were released from service and they made their way to Bordeaux where they boarded the Ary Schaeffer which sailed for Falmouth on June 19. Maly was commissioned in the RAFVR on July 13, as a Pilot Officer but with an effective rank of Flight Lieutenant and he joined the recently-formed 310 Squadron at Duxford. He re-trained to Hurricane Mk1s and was appointed Flight Commander of ‘A’ Flight, making his first operational flight in Hurricane P3157 on August 18 1940. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on August 31 and returned to base with his Hurricane, V6556, damaged after the combat over the Thames Estuary. On September 3 he destroyed a Bf 110 and on October 28 he damaged a Do 17. On October 29, whilst formating for a Wing patrol, Maly, in Hurricane Mk1 NN-A, P3707, collided with Pilot Officer E Fechtner, in Hurricane Mk1 NN-S, P3889,. Maly made a forcedlanding, at Fowlmere, with injuries to his hand and head. Fechtner was killed. On December 22 1940 Maly left the Squadron and was posted to the Czechoslovak Inspectorate General in London Maly died on June 5 1941, reportedly from a stroke but some sources suggest that it was because of the injuries from the crash in the previous October. There have also been claims

KENNETH MANGER 70867

PO

Pilot

British

17 Squadron

Manger, was born in Halifax, Yorkshire on February 25 1917, son of Mr and Mrs Charles Manger. He was educated at Crossley and Porter Grammar School, Halifax, as a boarder. After leaving, he tried various local jobs but mainly worked in the family florist business, in Crown Street Halifax. On January 17 1938 Manger began flying training at 5 E&RFTS, Hanworth, obtained his pilot’s licence on February 10 and on March 26 he was commissioned as an Acting Pilot Officer in Class ‘A’ of the RAFO. He spent two weeks at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on an induction course; was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney on April 9 1938 and with training completed, he joined 17 Squadron at Kenley on October 29. At the end of his year’s probation, Manger was granted an RAF short service commission. Still with 17 Squadron in 1940, he destroyed a Ju 87 and damaged another on May 17, shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 on the 18th, shared a Do 17 on the 25th, damaged another on the 26th, destroyed a Do 17 and damaged another on the 29th and shot down a Bf 109 and damaged another on the 31st. Manger was himself shot down on June 1 by return fire from a Ju 88 and he baled out into the Channel near Dunkirk. He was picked up by a French boat and put ashore, returned to England in a British troopship and was flying the next day. On June 6 he damaged a Bf 109. On the 7th 17 Squadron was ordered to France, to the airfield at Le Mans. Manger destroyed a Bf 109 on this day. The squadron was withdrawn to Debden, via Jersey, on the 17th. Manger was awarded the DFC (25.6.40). He shared in the destruction of two He 111s on July 9 and 12. He was reported ‘Missing’ after a combat with Bf 110s off the East coast on August 11 1940, in Hurricane P 3760. Manger is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 9. A memorial plaque to him was unveiled at The Crossley Heath School, Halifax on October 22 1999. APO (RAFO) 26.3.38 PO 17.1.39

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HAROLD JOHN MANN 42247

PO

Pilot

British

On April 12 Mansel-Lewis was detached from 110 Wing to 7 AACU, then being formed at Castle Bromwich. He was formally posted to 7 AACU on May 1 1940. On May 31 he joined 4 (Continental) Ferry Pool, flying aircraft to France. On June 15 he was detailed to fly a Hurricane, fitted with long-range tanks, to the Middle East, one of a group of 12 Blenheims and 12 Hurricanes. During the night of the 17/18th the aircraft were to leave Tangmere and cross France but the fluid situation there caused the plan to be changed. Early on the 18th the aircraft took off independently for the Middle East, via Marignane, Tunis and Malta. Mansel-Lewis and Pilot Officer M A Sims landed at Angouleme and next morning flew on to Marignane, where they joined 3 other Hurricanes and a Blenheim. In the afternoon of the 19th the six aircraft set off, led by the Blenheim, but two Hurricanes turned back with fuel problems. The remaining four pressed on through the gathering darkness and as they approached the African coast, the weather deteriorated. The Blenheim crashed into the sea, ManselLewis ditched nearby, struggled free and after a three-hour swim, he reached the coast. In the morning of the 20th he was found by Arabs and taken to Bizerta. There, he met Sims, who had baled out. The pilot of the third Hurricane had crashed and been killed. Mansel-Lewis and Sims were sent to Casablanca, where they embarked on HMS Ark Royal, which landed them at Gibraltar that night. They returned to England with a convoy. Mansel-Lewis was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 3 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill on the 16th. He flew his first operational sortie with 92 on September 19, a coastal reconnaissance. He claimed a Do 17 destroyed on the 27th, another probably destroyed on October 10 and a Bf 109 destroyed on December 1. In early March 1941 Mansel-Lewis joined 243 Squadron, then forming at Kallang, Singapore. On April 4 he was a passenger in a Blenheim of 27 Squadron, on a formation practice flight. The aircraft flicked over and dived into the sea. Mansel-Lewis baled out but was struck by the propellor and killed. The pilot and gunner were killed when the aircraft went into the sea. Mansel-Lewis was 20. He is buried in Kranji War Cemetery, Singapore.

1 Squadron

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 6 1939, as a pupil pilot. He did his elementary flying training at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield. Mann moved to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 12 Course, which ran from July 10 to December 9 1939. With the course completed, he joined 236 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on December 16. Mann was posted to 222 Squadron at Duxford on February 9 1940 and he may have served briefly with 253 Squadron at Kenley in early May. Mann joined No 1 Squadron in France on May 10 1940 and he was with it at Tangmere in early July 1940. On the 11th he shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 of 9/ZG 76 with Flying Officer D C McCaw and Sergeant C Parkinson of 238 Squadron, also based at Tangmere. The enemy aircraft made a forced-landing at Grange Heath, near Lulworth. Mann claimed a Bf 109 destroyed over Martlesham Heath on August 15 and two Bf 110s damaged on the 30th. He was posted to 96 Squadron, when it was formed at Cranage on December 18 1940 from 422 Flight, for the night defence of Liverpool. Mann was released from the RAF in 1950, as a Flight Lieutenant. APO 10.6.39 PO 16.12.39 FO 16.12.40 FL 16.12.41 FL 1.9.45

JACK MANN 127025

Sgt

Pilot

British

64 and 92 Squadrons

Mann was born in Northampton on June 11 1914 and educated at St James’s School there. He went to work as an engineer at Phillips and Powis at Reading.

APO 24.6.39 PO 9.12.39 FO 9.12.40

He joined the RAFVR on April 6 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741491) and did his weekend flying at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley. Called up on September 1 1939, he did not go to 3 ITW at Hastings until December. Mann went to 9 FTS, Hullavington for No 17 Course, which ran from March 6 to June 29 1940. He got to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 7, converted to Spitfires and joined 64 Squadron at Kenley on July 27. He made his first operational sortie on the 29th. On August 5 he destroyed a Bf 109, on the 8th he probably destroyed two Bf 109s, on the 11th probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another and on the 12th he probably destroyed another Bf 109. Mann was slightly wounded in action on the 16th and he made a forced-landing at Hawkinge, in Spitfire L 1038. He was slightly injured on the ground, when Kenley was bombed on the 18th. He rejoined the squadron on the 25th. Mann was posted to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill on September 12 and on the 14th he damaged a Bf 109 but was himself wounded in the action. He was made non-effective sick and still was in November 1940. With 91 Squadron on March 31 1941, Mann shot down a Bf 109 W of Cap Gris Nez. In the engagement, his Spitfire, P 7783, was severely damaged and he was badly burned when he made a crash-landing at Mongeham, Kent. He underwent plastic surgery at the Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, becoming a Guinea Pig. He was awarded the DFM (25.4.41). Fit again, Mann was posted to No 1 ADF at Hendon. Whilst still with the unit, he was commissioned from Warrant Officer in July 1942. Mann later flew with Ferry Command on the North Atlantic run. He was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He flew with commercial airlines and eventually became Chief Pilot, Middle East Airlines, Beirut. He took up residence there and when he stopped flying Mann became manager of the Duke of Wellington Bar in the Marble Towers Hotel, Beirut. He later managed the Mr Pickwick Bar in the city. On May 12 1989 Mann was kidnapped as he drove to a bank in Syrian-controlled West Beirut. His captors, Armed Struggle Cells, said he was being held hostage against the release of Arabs jailed in Britain. Mann was released on September 24 1991, his captors then describing themselves as a Shi’ite Muslim group, Revolutionary Justice Organisation. After being flown to Britain for medical treatment and rest, Mann and his wife later went to live in Cyprus. He was made a CBE in the New Years Honours List (31.12.91). Mann died on November 11 1995.

MIROSLAV JAN MANSFELD 69453

Pilot

British

Czechoslovakian

111 Squadron

On October 1 1930 Mansfeld joined the Czech Air Force, as a cadet at the Military Aviation Academy, Prostejov. After completing his flying training, he joined the 72nd Squadron of the 6th Air Regiment at Milovice. Between May and June of 1934 he returned to Prostejov for fighter pilot training after which he was posted to the 91st Night Fighter Squadron of the Regiment, flying Letov S16s from Prague-Kbely airbase. He later moved to the Aviation Research Institute on testing duties. In 1937 Mansfeld went to the Soviet Union, to collect an ANT-40 (SB-2) bomber, a job he did six times in all. The aircraft later went into production in Czechoslovakia as the Avia B 71. Mansfeld continued test duties until early 1939, when he was assigned to the General Staff. After the German take-over in March he went back to testing but was dismissed from the Czech Air Force shortly after. On June 2 1939 Mansfeld and five others went by train to Ostrava, in civilian clothes, crossed the border, near Tesin, into Poland and then travelled to Krakow where they reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate. After a short stay in Krakow he travelled to Gdynia and, on June 20 he sailed on the Sobieski for France. On arrival in France the Czech airmen were required to join the French Foreign Legion, the only unit open to foreigners, for a five year period with the agreement that should war be declared they would be transferred to French military units. On June 21 they were at Balard Barracks in Paris, subsequently moving to Marseille and then crossing to Oran. Mansfeld reached Sidi Bel Abbes and became Legionnaire 84471. When war was declared he left for Marseille to join l’Armee de l’Air on September 3 1939 and in late November Mansfeld was doing flying training at Chateauroux, as a Corporal-Chef. In February 1940 he went to a Bloch 210 bomber squadron at Tafaraoui airbase. On May 18 Mansfeld ferried an aircraft to Bastia and flew on to Oran. After Italy declared war on June 10 he went to Casablanca, took a ship to Gibraltar, from where he sailed, on the Neuralia, in a convoy to Liverpool, arriving there on July 12. After kitting out at the Czechoslovak Army Depot, Cholmondeley Park, Cheshire, Mansfeld went to the RAF Czechoslovak Depot, Cosford, where he was enlisted in the RAFVR (787518) on July 25. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 21 1940, converted to Hurricanes and joined 111 Squadron at Drem on October 6.

JOHN MANSEL-LEWIS PO

Pilot

Mansfeld was born on December 14 1912, at Dalovice, Mlada Boleslav, the son of a soldier who died of cholera, fighting in Poland in 1914. Mansfeld worked as an apprentice automobile engineer, finishing at the Skoda works in Prague.

PO 23.7.42 FO 23.1.43 FL 23.7.44

42248

Sgt

92 Squadron

Mansel-Lewis, of Pembrey, Carmarthenshire, was the son of a former RFC pilot. He was educated at Lambrook and Stowe School. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 1 1939, as a pupil pilot. With training completed, he was with 110 Wing at Ringway in February/March 1940.

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

EDWARD MANTON

Mansfeld shared in the destruction of a He 111 on November 13 and damaged another on January 27 1941. He was posted to 54 OTU, Church Fenton on April 23, on Blenheims and Oxfords, to train for night-fighting duties. Commissioned in June 1941, Mansfeld joined 68 Squadron, which was equipped with Beaufighters, at High Ercall on July 18. He destroyed two He 111s and probably a third on October 12/13, destroyed two He 111s and shared a Do 217 on April 30 1942. He was awarded the DFC (10.7.42). Mansfeld destroyed a Do 217 on December 10/11, probably sank a flak-equipped E-boat on February 18 1943 and destroyed a Ju 88 on March 15/16. With his tour finished, Mansfeld was posted to 51 OTU, Twinwood Farm on May 16 1943, as an instructor. On September 6 he transferred to the Flying Instructors’ School at Castle Combe. He returned to operations on October 10 1943, when he rejoined 68 Squadron, then at Coltishall, as a Flight Commander and with his original navigator. On May 14/15 1944 Mansfeld destroyed two Do 217s and on July 27 and October 24 he shot down V1s at night. The Squadron re-equipped with Mosquito NF XVII fighters on July 1 1944 He was awarded the DSO (21.5.45). During the Second World War Mansfeld logged 488 operational flying hours of which 386 were at night. Mansfeld returned to Czechoslovakia on August 16 1945 and rejoined the Czech Air Force. Initially he was at the Air Force Headquarters in Prague but on February 1 1946 he was appointed to command 24 Squadron of the 1st Air Regiment at Pizen. In February 1948 the Communists took over in Czechoslovakia and, on June 1 1948, Mansfeld was dismissed from the Air Force since he was a former RAF airman and thus an ‘undesirable person’ . Later that month, with four other former Czech RAF pilots he escaped to Germany before he could be arrested and imprisoned. On July 17 he was declared a ‘deserter’ and demoted to Private and stripped of his Czechoslovak medals. By July 1948 he had travelled to England and was re-admitted to the RAF as an AC2 and was posted to 13 Squadron, a photo-reconnaissance unit, equipped with Spitfires. He was re-commissioned in October 1948, With 13 Squadron he flew operationally in Cyprus and Egypt. In 1952 the unit was re-equipped with Meteor PR Mk10 aircraft. Mansfeld was awarded the AFC (1.1.53). He retired from the RAF on September 30 1958, as a Squadron Leader. He then joined Beaverbrook Newspapers, as Distribution Manager for the Daily Express. He retired in 1970. Mansfeld died on October 21 1991 and he is buried in Brookwood Cemetery.

810081

Wop/AG

British

32050

British

British

56 Squadron

Manton went to 605 Squadron, AAF on March 29 1934, as Assistant Adjutant and Instructor. After qualifying as a flying instructor, he was posted to 607 Squadron, AAF on July 17 1936, as Adjutant. Manton had been granted a Permanent Commission on June 26 1936. On January 1 1937 Manton went to Air Ministry, for duty in the Directorate of Flying Training, to deal with AAF, RAFVR and University Air Squadron training. After a refresher course at 5 OTU, Aston Down in June 1940, he was posted to command 56 Squadron at North Weald on July 1. On the 13th Manton probably destroyed a Ju 87, on the 25th he was slightly wounded in the hands and legs by an explosive bullet and was treated at the Royal Masonic Hospital. His aircraft was flown to 13 MU, Henlow, from North Weald. On August 18 Manton probably destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 24th he destroyed a Bf 109. On August 31 he was promoted to Wing Commander and posted to command RAF Hawkinge. This did not take place and he was to take up a staff job at HQ 9 Group on September 2 but he was posted to Manston instead. He assumed command of RAF Manston on September 5. In March 1941 Manton was appointed Wing Leader at Northolt. He was shot down on April 16, in Hurricane Z 2492, crash-landing between New Romney and Dymchurch. Manton was wounded and after a period of limited duty at Colerne, he was posted to Fighter HQ at Belfast. In 1942 he was promoted to Acting Group Captain and appointed SASO at HQ 82 Group and later at HQ RAF Northern Ireland. Manton commanded RAF Church Fenton and RAF Coltishall in 1943 and then became Group Captain Operations at HQ 12 Group, Watnall. Having volunteered for overseas, Manton was posted in September 1944 to command 907 Fighter-Bomber Wing in Burma. He returned to the UK in 1946 and went as SASO to HQ 13 Group, Inverness. Manton retired from the RAF on June 26 1960 as a Group Captain. He settled in Australia and died there in 2005.

236 Squadron

DAVID ERNEST MANSFIELD Wop/AG

SL Pilot

Born on June 18 1910 in Margate, Manton joined the RAF on a short service commission on June 26 1931. He was posted to 2 FTS, Digby on July 13 and after training he joined 111 Squadron at Hornchurch on June 20 1932.

He was killed on February 25 1941, aged 21. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 48.

Sgt

610 Squadron

GRAHAM ASHLEY LEONARD MANTON

Mansfield, of Dagenham, Essex, joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 236 Squadron at St Eval in late September 1940 and flew his first operational sortie on the 30th.

102106

British

Called up on August 24 1939, he was posted to 11 EFTS, Perth on October 21.He moved on to 9 FTS, Hullavington for No 18 Course, which ran from April 11 to July 27 1940. With training completed, he rejoined 610 Squadron, then at Biggin Hill, on July 27 1940. Having had no experience of Spitfires, he was attached to 7 OTU, Hawarden from July 29 to August 12, for a conversion course. On August 29 1940 Manton was shot down and killed in combat over Mayfield. His Spitfire, R 6629, crashed at Great Wigsell Estate, Hurst Green, Surrey. Manton was 25 years old and is buried in Hawkhurst Cemetery, Kent. In 2006 an apartment block, built in the Wirral, Cheshire, was named in his memory, Manton Court.

BERNARD MARTIN MANSFIELD Sgt

Pilot

Manton, of Bebington, Cheshire, joined 610 Squadron, AAF in 1936, as an Aircrafthand. When the AAF introduced a scheme to train NCO pilots, Manton applied successfully and became an LAC u/t Pilot.

PO 14.7.41 FO 14.7.42 FL 22.10.43 SL 10.10.43 FL 1.10.48 SL 1.1.57

749519

Sgt

236 Squadron

Born on March 18 1920, Mansfield joined the RAFVR on June 8 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (751477). Called up on September 2, he was at No 1 Electrical and Wireless School, Cranwell in early 1940. Mansfield went to 5 B&GS for a gunnery course on July 26 1940 and joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on August 24. He carried out fifty operational sorties with the squadron before his tour finished in early April 1941. On May 24 he was posted to 2 OTU, to convert to Sunderlands and was commissioned on July 31. He joined 228 Squadron at Stranraer on December 23 1941. He was with the squadron until August 5 1942. Mansfield went to 14 ITW for instruction on December 12 and on March 1 1943 was posted to the Empire Air Gunner School, as an instructor. He went on a Ground Control Interception Course at Fullarton on July 12 1944 and then as a Controller at 21 Sector and later at HQ 11 Group. In February 1945 Mansfield was posted to the Far East and went into the Operations Room of 909 Wing. He returned to the UK in February 1946 and was released from the RAF as a Flight Lieutenant. Mansfield joined the RAuxAF in January 1950, in the Fighter Control Branch, with 3513 Fighter Control Unit. He died in 2003.

PO 26.6.31 FO 26.12.32 FL 1.4.36 SL 1.12.38 WC 1.3.41 GC 1.7.44 GC 1.1.49

ROY ACHILLE MARCHAND 42070

PO

Pilot

British

73 Squadron

Marchand was born on August 24 1918 at Beckenham, Kent. He was educated at Abbey Preparatory School and Westminster School. He studied for two years at London University Faculty of Medicine. In March 1939 Marchand joined the RAF on a short service commission. He began his ab initio course at 30 E&RFTS and then moved to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth, where he was awarded his flying badge in August 1939. With the course completed, Marchand arrived at 11 Group Pool for further training on November 20 1939. He went to 2 Ferry Pilot Pool on December 21, as a reserve for France. On January 1 1940 he was posted to 73 Squadron in France. On March 23 Marchand damaged a Bf 109 and on April 21 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another.

PO 31.7.41 FO 31.7.42 FO (RAuxAF) 9.1.50

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Markiewicz completed his pilot training at the Air Force Officers Training Centre at Sadkow and was posted to 22 Bomber Eskadra, 2nd Air Force Regiment, Cracow. In 1936 Markiewicz went to the Training Centre at Grudziadz for an advanced fighter-pilot course. He returned to the 2nd Regiment but was transferred to 122 Fighter Eskadra. As well as belonging to 122, Markiewicz was an instructor in the Training Squadron of the Regiment. On September 1 1939 Markiewicz destroyed a Hs 126 at 6 am, after a long chase. The claim to have shot down the first German aircraft in the war is usually accepted to be that of Wladyslaw Gnys (qv). However, his destruction of two Do 17s is believed to have taken place at 7 am and if Markiewicz’s Hs 126 was destroyed an hour earlier, he, undoubtedly, achieved the first aerial victory of the war. Markiewicz destroyed a Ju 87 on September 2. The pilot baled out and the aircraft crashed near the River Vistula. The next day Markiewicz attacked a He 111, which then made a forced-landing after one engine stopped. On September 17 Markiewicz flew to Romania, reached France via Beirut and joined Groupe de Chasse I/145. It was later based at Dreux, to assist in the defence of Paris. On June 9 1940 Markiewicz shared in the destruction of a Do 17. After the French collapse, he reached North Africa and eventually England. Markiewicz was enlisted in the RAFVR, as an AC2. On June 1 1940 he was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool He joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield on August 6 1940, as a Sergeant. On September 13 Markiewicz went to Duxford with a 302 detachment, to operate with the Bader Big Wing. The attachment ceased on September 25 and the 302 pilots and planes returned to Leconfield. He claimed a Bf 109 as probably destroyed on October 26. Practicing low-level attacks in Hurricane V 6753, in foggy weather over the Channel, on February 10 1941, Markiewicz’s engine failed at 800 feet and his radiator struck the sea. He attempted a forced-landing at Morrels Farm, Lagness, Sussex but crashed. His injuries were serious and he was in hospital for nearly a year. Markiewicz lost his operational category and on February 3 1942 he joined No 1 ADU at Croydon. He went to 2 FIS, Montrose on July 29 1942, for an instructor’s course, after which he was posted to 16 FTS, Newton. On May 1 1943 Markiewicz was sent to the Officers Cadet School in Scotland and at the end of the course, he went to the PAF Depot at Blackpool, where he began a course in radio engineering. In late November 1945 Markiewicz was released from the PAF, as a Warrant Officer. He was awarded the KW (23.10.40), a Bar (20.8.42) and a second Bar (31.10.47). Markiewicz settled in Britain, changed his name to A L Martin and became a radio and television engineer, later managing his own workshop. He died on April 30 2005.

On May 13 1940 he probably destroyed a Do 17 but was himself wounded in the shoulder and beneath the left eye. After recovering, he went on leave and got married. He and his wife were injured in a car accident whilst on honeymoon and spent three weeks in hospital. Marchand returned to 73 Squadron on July 6. He shared in probably destroying of a Bf 109 on September 6, ten miles N of Maidstone. He was shot down and killed on the 15th, in combat over Maidstone. His Hurricane, P 3865, crashed at Nouds Farm, Teynham. Marchand is buried in Bromley Hill Cemetery, Bromley. Over his grave was a magnificent granite memorial. His father removed it in the early 1970s and gifted it to the London Air Museum. In 1982 it was acquired by the Tangmere Military Aviation Museum. Marchand’s grave by this time had been marked by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Tangmere arranged for the memorial to be erected near the site of Marchand’s crash. A ceremony of dedication was held on September 15 1985. APO 27.5.39 PO 18.11.39

MIECZYSLAW STANISLAW MARCINKOWSKI 780491

Sgt

Pilot

Polish 151 and 501 Squadrons Born in Rytwia, Sandomierz on February 24 1919, Marcinkowski completed his education at the Grammar School at Staszow. In 1936 he entered the PAF NCOs Training School at Bydgoszcz, qualifying as a bomber pilot in 1939 at Krosno.

Marcinkowski was posted to the Training Squadron of the 1st Air Force Regiment in Warsaw. He took part in the September 1939 fighting and on the 18th crossed into Romania. Eventually reaching France, Marcinkowski requested a transfer to Britain and arrived there on February 9 1940. He enlisted in the RAFVR at RAF Eastchurch and on June 1 1940 he was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. Marcinkowski was on the 5th Polish Pilots’ Course at No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum from August 23 to September 1, for testing and grading. He was posted from there to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 151 Squadron at Digby on October 8. His last flight with 151 Squadron was made on October 20 and Marcinkowski joined 501 Squadron at Kenley on the 29th and he made his first operational sortie with 501 on that day. He was reported ‘Missing’ after a squadron patrol on November 1 1940 and was last seen heading for the French coast, in Hurricane V 7405. Marcinkowski is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt.

RAINFORD GENT MARLAND 62657

Sgt

Pilot

British

222 Squadron

FRANTISEK MAREK 1299985

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

310 and 19 Sqdns

Marland, of Preston, Lancashire, joined the RAFVR about April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745750).

Marek was born at Ceske Budejovice on April 30 1913. He served in the Czechoslovak Air Force with the 1st Air Regiment at Prague-Kbely. When the Germans marched into his country on March 15 1939 he was demobilised.

Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 17. He converted to Spitfires and then joined 222 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 1 1940. Marland flew his first operational sortie on the 2nd. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on the 7th, a Ju 88 on the 11th, a Bf 109 damaged on the 14th, two probable Bf 109s on the 30th and another probable on October 25. He shared a Ju 88 on February 17 1941 and shared another on March 8. Marland was commissioned in March 1941. He claimed a Do 17 destroyed on April 7, a Ju 88 damaged on the 21st and a Bf 109 destroyed and two others damaged on July 9. On July 25 1941 Marland joined 603 Squadron at Hornchurch. He was posted to 229 Squadron in the Middle East in October 1941. He probably destroyed a Ju 88 on November 23 and was killed whilst attempting a forced-landing on December 17 1941. Marland is buried in Halfaya Sollum War Cemetery, Egypt.

Marek went to Poland in June and joined the Czech Air Force in exile there. When Poland fell, he made his way to France and enlisted in l’Armée de l’Air in late 1939. Initially he was at the Ecole de Pilotage at Avord and on January 16 1940 he was assigned to the CIC at Chartres to continue training. On May 26 he transferred to Cazaux airbase in south west France. When France collapsed in June 1940,Marek escaped to England. He was enlisted in the RAFVR, as an AC2 and he was at the Czechoslovak Airmen’s Depot at Cosford until July 12, when he joined 310 Squadron at Duxford, as a Sergeant and re-trained on Hurricanes. Marek went on a period of attachment to 19 Squadron at Fowlmere on the August 27 and re-trained to Spitfires He was killed on September 14 1940, still with 19 Squadron, when he crashed near Horndon-on-the-Hill, Orsett during a routine patrol, at 23,000 feet, in Spitfire R 6625. Marek reported a problem with his oxygen supply over Hornchurch. The cause of the crash is unknown but is presumed to have been his losing consciousness due to oxygen failure. Marek is buried in Eastbrookend Cemetery, Barking, Essex.

PO 19.3.41

ROY MARPLES 70868

FO

Pilot British

616 Squadron

ANTONI LUCJAN MARKIEWICZ 793546

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

302 Squadron

Marples, of Manchester, was born in 1920 in Muswell Hill, London. He was educated at Stockport Grammar School and Manchester University.

Born on January 13 1915 at Sandomierz, Markiewicz was educated at the Grammar School there.

He joined the RAFO and began his ab initio course on January 17 1938, as a pupil pilot, at E&RFTS. He was commissioned in the RAFO on March 26 1938. Marples then went to 8 FTS, Montrose on April 9 and with the course completed, he joined 19 Squadron at Duxford on October 29 1938.

In 1931 he entered the PAF NCOs School at Bydgoszcz, qualifying in 1934 as an Aircraft Mechanic, with elementary flying training.

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On November 22 1940 Marsh transferred to 802 Squadron, HMS Audacity but rejoined 804 on March 24 1941 for Fighter Catapult ships, as Senior Pilot. Marsh commanded the squadron from February 9 to October 30 1942, after which he was at Combined Operations HQ, as FAA Planner. Marsh held a series of appointments as Lieutenant Commander Flying, on HMS Rajah from January 3 to December 16 1944, on HMS Khedive from December 31 1944 to June 11 1945 and at RNAS Trincomalee from June 12 to November 21 1945. He returned to the Royal Marines in January 1946 and served in 42 Commando in Malta. Marsh retired on September 30 1953.

He relinquished his RAFO commission when granted an RAF short service one on May 8 1939. Marples was detached from 19 Squadron to RAF Manston on July 16 1939, for a parachute course. He joined 610 Squadron at Hooton Park from 19 on September 8 and moved to 616 Squadron at Leconfield on December 20 1939. Over Dunkirk on June 1 1940, he damaged a He 111. On the 26th he destroyed a He 111 off Flamborough Head and on August 15 he probably destroyed a Ju 88 and shared another. Marples was himself shot down on August 26. He made a forced-landing near Adisham and was admitted to Kent and Canterbury Hospital, with cannon shell splinters in the leg. He returned to duty on November 7. On May 5 1941 Marples damaged a Ju 88, on June 22 he destroyed a Bf 109, damaged another on the 25th. In July 1941 he went to 41 Squadron at Merston, as a Flight Commander. On August 9 Marples got a probable Bf 109, on the 12th shared another, on the 21st probably shot down a Bf 109 and on September 18 he shared a Ju W34 off Ostend. He was posted for a rest later in the month and awarded the DFC (17.10.41). Marples joined 127 Squadron in the Western Desert on June 9 1942, as a Flight Commander. He shared a Bf 109 on July 8, was given command of 238 Squadron on July 20, probably destroyed a Ju 87 on October 30 and then took command of 145 Squadron in the Desert on November 25. Marples was awarded a Bar to the DFC (5.1.43). He shot down a Mc 202 on January 12 1943. After this action, his own engine failed and he ditched on the sea. Two soldiers swam out from shore and helped him in to land. He was posted away from 145 on January 26 1943. In April 1944 Marples was leading 145 Wing at Merston, made up of 329, 340 and 341 Free French Squadrons. He was killed on April 26, when he collided with a pilot from 329 over Washington, Sussex. His Spitfire crashed at Lower Chancton Farm, near Washington. Marples was 24 years old. He is buried in Chichester Cemetery.

2nd Lt 1.1.35 Lt 1.6.37 Capt 13.1.41 Capt 13.1.47

EDWARD HOWARD MARSH 156314

Pilot

British

152 Squadron n

Born in Dover on July 9 1921, Marrs was educated at Dauntsey’s School, West Lavington, Wiltshire. He entered RAF College, Cranwell on April 27 1939 as a Flight Cadet. After the outbreak of war, cadets, who had not completed their courses, were enlisted in the regular RAF on September 7 1939, as Airmen u/t Pilots and each given an Airman number. Marrs (581736) graduated on March 7 1940 and was granted a Permanent Commission. He joined 152 Squadron at Acklington on March 17. On August 13 Marrs claimed a Bf 110 destroyed, on the 16th a probable He 111, on the 18th a Ju 87 destroyed, on the 22nd a shared Do 17, on the 25th a Bf 110 destroyed, on September 17 he shared a Ju 88, on the 25th damaged two He 111s and a Bf 110, on the 27th a Ju 88 destroyed, on October 7 a Bf 110 destroyed and another damaged, on November 14 a Ju 88 shared and on the 28th a Bf 109 destroyed. Marrs shared a Do 17 N of Warmwell on January 4 1941. He was awarded the DFC (7.1.41) and he was appointed a Flight Commander in April. He shared a He 111 over the Scilly Isles on July 18. The squadron provided close escort for Hampdens detailed to bomb the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau at Brest on July 24 1941. Heavy flak was encountered over the target and Marrs was shot down and killed. He is buried in Kerfautras Cemetery, Brest, France. His portrait was drawn by Cuthbert Orde.

HENRY JAMES MARSH 562584

British

Sgt

Pilot

British

238 Squadron

Marsh was educated at Aldershot County High School. He joined the RAF at Halton in September 1928, as an Aircraft Apprentice and passed out in August 1931, as a Fitter. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Observer and in February 1939, when he applied for pilot training, he was a Sergeant-Observer. He was posted to 11 E&RFTS, Perth in February 1939 and moved on to 2 FTS, Brize Norton in early June. With the course completed, he was posted on November 6 to 253 Squadron, then reforming at Manston. On May 14 1940 Marsh joined 238 Squadron at Tangmere. On July 13 he shared a Bf 110 off Portland, on August 11 he shared in destroying a He 111 and in combat over Portland on the 13th Marsh destroyed a Bf 110 but failed to return to base, probably shot down by Bf 109s, in Hurricane P 3177. Marsh was 27. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 17.

ALAN EDWARD MARSH Pilot

152 Squadron

PO 22.7.43 FO 22.1.44 FL 22.7.45 FO (RAFVR) 30.7.47

PO 7.3.40 FO 7.3.41

Lieutenant (RM/FAA)

British

In early October Marsh was posted to ITW, St Leonards. He did a Link Trainer course at Derby in December, returned to ITW and moved on to 22 EFTS, Cambridge on April 12 1940. Marsh completed his flying training at 5 FTS, Sealand, on No 49 Course, which ran from June 16 to September 7 1940. He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 7, converted to Spitfires and then joined 152 Squadron on the 28th. On March 14 1941 he destroyed a Ju 88, which crashed into the sea off Jersey, on July 18 he shared a He 111, on August 28 damaged a Bf 109 and on September 7 destroyed another. Marsh was posted to CFS, Upavon on October 4 1941, for an instructor’s course, after which he went to 10 FTS, Ternhill. He later instructed at 2 FIS, Montrose and 3 FIS, Hullavington, Babdown Farm, Castle Combe and Lulsgate Bottom. Commissioned in July 1943, Marsh was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. He worked for Wolverhampton Aviation, obtained his private and commercial licences and flew until 1953, when bad hearing forced him to give up. Marsh died on March 7 2001.

ERIC SIMCOX MARRS PO

Pilot

Marsh joined the RAFVR in July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (758002) and flew a few times at 14 E&RFTS, Castle Bromwich before being called to full-time service on September 1 1939.

APO (RAFO) 26.3.38 PO 8.5.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.1.44

33572

Sgt

804 Squadron

Marsh was born on May 5 1912 and enlisted in the Royal Marines on November 15 1930. He served in the ranks, until commissioned in January 1935, as a probationary 2nd Lieutenant.

WILLIAM CHARLES MARSH 119521 Sgt

He was attached to the Fleet Air Arm on June 27 1938 and on that day he was posted to 6 E&RFTS, Sywell, moving on to No 1 SFTS on September 10 1938. With his training completed, Marsh joined 774 (FAA) Squadron at Aldergrove on January 1 1940. He moved to 804 Squadron at Hatston on June 16 1940, flying Sea Gladiators on dockyard defence. On September 5 804 embarked on HMS Furious by air. The squadron disembarked and returned to Hatston on September 8. On October 11 1940 804 again embarked on HMS Furious, for operations against Tromso. The attack did not eventuate because of bad weather and 804 returned to Hatston on the 19th.

Air Gunner British

236 Squadron

Marsh joined the RAFVR in September 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner (902177). He completed his gunnery training and joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island on July 19 1940. On November 19 Marsh’s flight of 236 Squadron was posted to RAF Aldergrove, where it combined with a flight from 235 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron. Marsh flew his first operational sortie with 272 on November 21.

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Just before midnight on August 23 1939 85 Squadron and other squadrons of the Air Component were ordered to mobilise and on the morning of the 24th 85’s Hurricanes were dispersed around he perimeter at Debden. On September 3 an 85 advance party left for France and by the 9th Rouen-Boos had been prepared and the squadron crossed the Channel to the aerodrome, where it was joined by 87 Squadron, for patrols over crossChannel shipping, as 60 Wing. On September 22 1939 the Wing moved to Merville and on November 5 it moved to Lille-Seclin. After the Blitzkreig this airfield was abandoned on May 19/20 1940 and the Wing returned to Merville. 85 was withdrawn to England on May 20 and re-assembled at Debden on the 22nd. Not all pilots had Hurricanes to fly back and Marshall returned in a Master. After a month of training flights and practises, 85 was operational again by early July. On August 18 Marshall damaged a Bf 110. On this day, attacking a He 111, Marshall ran out of ammunition, so he rammed the bomber’s tail unit with his starboard wing and lost the tip. He was credited with the probable destruction of the He 111. On the 31st he got a probable Do 17. 85 Squadron moved to Church Fenton on September 5 and Marshall was appointed `B’ Flight Commander on the 6th. On the 22nd Marshall and Flying Officer J A Hemingway were led on a patrol by Flight Lieutenan G Allard, over the western area of the Church Fenton Sector. Deteriorating weather conditions and shortage of fuel required them to make forcedlandings, Marshall and Hemingway near Burnley and Allard near Clitheroe. All three Hurricanes were damaged but repairable. On the 29th Marshall claimed a Bf 109 and the next day was shot down attacking He 111s. He baled out, unhurt. His Hurricane, V 6624, crashed at Langley Farm, Smarden. On October 27 he claimed a He 111 destroyed. Marshall damaged He 111s during the nights of April 9/10 and May 3/4. He was awarded the DFC (29.4.41). He was given command of 1452 Flight at West Malling at its formation on July 7 1941, with Turbinlite Havocs. He was killed on April 18 1942, in Turbinlite Havoc W 8276. He crashed in a field next to his girl friend’s house, at Widford, Hertfordshire whilst on an aerobatic ‘beat up’. Marshall and his two passengers were all killed. He then held the rank of Acting Squadron Leader. Marshall is buried in Maidstone Cemetery, Kent.

Commissioned in March 1942, Marsh was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 26.3.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 26.3.44

ALFRED ERNEST MARSHALL 47124

Sgt

Pilot

British

73 Squadron

Marshall, of Hitchin, Hertfordshire, was born in Portsmouth in 1915 and educated at Worcester Royal Grammar School. He joined the RAF in January 1931, as an Aircraft Apprentice (565286) and passed out in December 1933, as a coppersmith and metal worker. In 1938 he applied for pilot training and was selected. He did his elementary flying training at 11 E&RFTS, Perth and went on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 10 Course, which began on November 14 1938. Marshall crashed in Audax K 7481 on January 10 1939. He was admitted to Kidderminster Infirmary, with serious injuries. He completed his training and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge in late April 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, Marshall joined 73 Squadron in France on May 13. He shared a He 111 on the 19th and shared a Do 17 on June 11. The squadron was withdrawn to Church Fenton on the 18th. Marshall damaged a Bf 110 on September 7 but his Hurricane, P 3863, was severely damaged in the action and he made a forced-landing near Dammerwick Farm, Burnham Marshes after his engine failed. He was slightly injured. In early November 1940 73 Squadron was posted to the Middle East. It sailed on HMS Furious and flew off at Takoradi on the 29th. It then flew in easy stages to Heliopolis, via Lagos, Accra, Kano, Maiduguri, Khartoum, Wadi Halfa and Abu Sueir. During December the pilots were attached to 274 Squadron in the Western Desert. Marshall shot down two SM 79s on December 16, on an offensive patrol over Bardia. On January 3 1941 Marshall found five SM 79s bombing HMS Terror nine miles NE of Bardia. He shot two down, forced a third to crash-land in the sea and damaged a fourth. His ammuntion was then all gone. The same afternoon, he joined the CO and Flying Officer J E Storrar in destroying eight enemy aircraft on a landing ground. On January 5 Marshall shot down a SM 79, on February 5 he again joined the CO and Storrar in destroying another eight enemy aircraft on the ground, this time at Benina. On April 7 1941 Marshall shared in destroying three Ju 52s during an attack on Mechili airfield, on the 9th he shared in probably destroying a Fiat G 50, destroyed a Ju 52 near Derna and shared in destroying six Bf 110s on the ground at Derna airfield, on the 11th and 22nd two G 50s destroyed and on the 23rd a Ju 87 and a Bf 109 destroyed. After this action, he landed to refuel and was shot up on the ground and wounded. Marshall left the squadron in May and was awarded the DFM (6.6.41). Commissioned in August 1941, he was posted to 71 OTU, Gordon’s Tree, Sudan in November. In January 1942 he went to 73 OTU, Sheik Othman, Aden but returned to 71 OTU in February. He returned to operations in April 1942, joining 250 Squadron at Sidi Heneish. On June 26 he shared a Bf 109, on July 5 he destroyed a Bf 109, on the 8th a Ju 87, on the 19th a Ju 52 and damaged a Ju 87 and on the 20th damaged a Ju 88 on the ground. Marshall finished his second tour on August 1 1942 and was posted to 51 OTU, Cranfield, to instruct. He remained there until July 1944, when he joined 25 Squadron at Coltishall. He shot down at least one V 1 and during the night of October 6/7 1944 he destroyed a He 111 over the North Sea. The aircraft was equipped to launch V 1s. On November 11 1944 Marshall destroyed a He 111 over the sea forty miles E of Southwold, in Mosquito MT 492, with Flying Officer C Allen as radar operator. Marshall and Allen were killed on November 27 1944 when their same Mosquito was on an air test from Castle Camps. The aircraft went into a steep climb, broke up almost immediately and crashed in a nearby field. Marshall is buried in Hitchin Cemetery.

APO (RAFO) 24.11.37 PO (RAFO) 30.10.38 PO 23.6.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

JOHN VICTOR MARSHALL 83286

Pilot

British

British

232 Squadron

Called up on September 1, he did his elementary training at 7 EFTS, Desford. He moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 20 Course, which ran from May 13 to August 17 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 17 and he was commissioned on that day. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 232 Squadron at Castletown on September 11 and joined the squadron on the 14th. He was still with 232 on November 11 1940. Marshall flew a Hurricane off HMS Ark Royal to Malta on April 3 1941 and joined 261 Squadron at Hal Far, which flew in defence of Malta until its disbandment in May 1941. Marshall was later at Habbaniya with 127 Squadron. This squadron had been formed from a detachment of four Hurricanes and four Gladiators on June 29 1941 and was to be based at Haditha, Iraq. 127 was redesignated 261 Squadron on July 12 1941 and in August it took part in the occupation of Iran. It was later on air defence duties in Palestine and Cyprus until early 1942, when it went to the Far East. Marshall was with 152 Squadron in India and Burma in 1943 and he was awarded the DFC (18.2.44). He commanded 81 Squadron in Burma from March to October 1944. He retired from the RAF on September 3 1970 as a Group Captain. Marshall died on June 24 1984.

JAMES EGLINGTON MARSHALL FO

Pilot

Marshall was born on November 11 1918. He joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (758133).

PO 11.8.41 FO 12.8.42 FL 12.8.43

70809

PO

85 Squadro

Marshall was born in Dover, the son of a Royal Navy officer and was brought up in West Africa.

PO 17.8.40 FO 17.8.41 FL 17.8.42 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.1.55 GC 1.1.63

As a candidate for an RAFO commission, he began an ab initio course at 4 E&RFTS, Brough on September 23 1937. Having passed, he went to No 1 Depot, Uxbridge on November 23, where he was commissioned in Class ‘A’ of the RAFO the next day. On December 11 Marshall and other newly-commissioned Pilot Officers were posted to 8 FTS, Montrose and with the course completed, he was posted to a regular unit. When the training year was up, he returned to civilian life and on to the Reserve List, as a Pilot Officer, on October 30 1938. Marshall applied for a short service commission and was posted to 79 Squadron at Biggin Hill on February 6 1939 for six months’ fighter training. He was posted from 79 to 85 Squadron at Debden on June 21 1939. He relinquished his RAFO commission on the 23rd, on being granted an RAF short service commission.

HOMAS BRIAN MARSHALL 102085

Sgt

Pilot

British

235 Squadron

Marshall joined the RAFVR about July 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740496). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on September 19 1940. Commissioned in July 1941, he was possibly the Pilot Officer T B Marshall, who joined 54 OTU at Church Fenton from CFS, Upavon on December 17 1941, as a flying instructor. He was awarded the DFC (20.4.45) as an Acting Squadron Leader with 39 Squadron, operating in Marauders from Biferno, Italy. Marshall was released from the RAF in 1945. PO 12.7.41 FO 12.7.42 FL 12.7.43

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

THOMAS ROBSON MARSHALL 611372

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

He was at No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum from July 22 to 29, for testing and grading. Martel arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 29 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 23. Martel transferred to the Polish Air Force on August 6. He made no flights with the squadron until September 6, three days after 54 had moved north to Catterick. Martel was posted to 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 28 1940. He damaged a Bf 109 on October 2 and destroyed one on October 5. He was wounded in action on the 25th and was made non-effective sick. He returned to operations on November 6. On the 7th he shared in the destruction of a Bf 110. Martel was posted to 317 Squadron at Acklington on March 19 1941. He was awarded the KW (1.4.41) and was rested on January 28 1942, going to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as an instructor. Martel returned to 317 on August 25. He went to West Kirby on February 13 1943, to prepare for overseas and on March 13 arrived in the Middle East in a C 47, with other Polish pilots, to form the Polish Fighting Team, otherwise known as Skalski’s Circus. They were attached to 145 Squadron and operated in the Western Desert from March 17 to May 12 1943 and destroyed 30 enemy aircraft. Martel damaged a FW 190 on April 4 and destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged a Mc 200 on the 20th. Back in the UK, Martel returned to 317 on July 22 1943. He was posted to 16 FTS, Newton on August 20, as an instructor, but went back to 317 on November 4, as a Flight Commander. Martel was awarded two Bars to the KW (20.12.43). Tour-expired, he was posted to HQ PAF on September 12 1944 and awarded the VM (5th Class) (25.9.44). Martel was attached to the School of Air Support at Old Sarum on March 4 1945, for a course. He went to HQ BAFO in January 1946 for Operations Room duties and served with 131 Wing from October 14 1946 until released from the PAF in January 1947 as a Flight Lieutenant. He settled in England and died on April 25 2010.

219 Squadron

Marshall joined the RAF in April 1938, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and with training completed, he joined 219 Squadron at Catterick in August 1940. He was killed on June 29 1941, as a Flight Sergeant with 218 Squadron, operating in Wellingtons from Marham, Norfolk. He failed to return from an operation to Bremen, in Wellington T 2806. Marshall is buried in Becklingen War Cemetery, Soltau, Germany.

GUY MARSLAND 41940

PO

Pilot

British

245, 32 and 253 Squadrons

Born on November 5 1919, Marsland joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on February 6 1939, as a pupil pilot. After completing training, he then joined 245 Squadron at Leconfield on November 6 1939. Marsland was attached to 32 Squadron from September 19 to 24 1940 and was then posted to 253 Squadron at Kenley. Marsland damaged a Bf 109 on October 7 1940, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 29th, and shared in the destruction of a Do 17 and damaged another on November 22. During 1941 Marsland served with 263 and 137 Squadrons. Early in 1942 he was posted to the Far East and joined 136 Squadron in Burma, as a Flight Commander. The squadron withdrew to Chittagong as the Japanese advanced. On March 23 1942 Marsland destroyed a Japanese fighter over Akyab. He is said to have carried out a reconnaissance from the back seat of a Lysander, guiding the pilot by means of strings attached to the pilot’s epaulettes. He had hand grenades, which he threw at targets on the ground. He retired from the RAF on October 1 1958 as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. Marsland was later a successful antique dealer in Essex. He died in 1983.

PO 3.5.40 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.9.43

A MARTIN No unknown

APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39

FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

264 Squadron

SL 1.7.45 SL 1.8.47 Martin was with 264 Squadron during the Battle of Britain. The first mention of him in 264’s ORB is on July 1 1940 and his last sortie was made on July 15 1941.

KENNETH JOHN MARSTON 83715

PO

Pilot

British

On August 24 1940, flying with Pilot Officer E G Barwell, Martin shot down a Bf 109. During the night of April 10/11 1941, again with Barwell, he shot down a He 111 and probably another. All attempts to establish his identity have failed and the initial A is by no means certain. No further service details traced.

56 Squadron

Marston was born in Coventry on October 26 1918. He was educated at Bablake School there and was apprenticed to the Coventry City Transport Department. He joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748753).

ALLAN WILLIAM MARTIN

Called up at the outbreak of war, Marston did his flying training at 6 EFTS, Sywell and then at 8 FTS, Montrose, on No 18 Course, which ran from April 9 to July 26 1940. Marston was commissioned and joined 56 Squadron at North Weald on July 27, direct from 8 FTS. He made his first flight on the 27th, local flying, and this is believed to have been his first flight in a Hurricane. He did Hurricane training with the North Weald Sector Training Flight until August 4 and was made operational next day, flying to Rochford on forward readiness. Marston claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on August 24, two more on the 26th and he destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged another on September 27. He was shot down during a combat with Bf 109s and Bf 110s over Bournemouth on September 30. He crashed at East Knighton, in Hurricane P 2866, with shrapnel wounds and abrasions. His next flight was on October 14, an air test, made on the day he rejoined the squadron. On December 12 1940 Pilot Officer Z Nosowicz had overshot, landing at Middle Wallop, and as he climbed away, his propellor hit the tail of Marston’s Hurricane, V 7510, as he was circling to land. Marston baled out but was too low for his parachute to open and he was killed. His Hurricane crashed one mile NW of Middle Wallop aerodrome. Marston is buried in St James’ churchyard, Stivichall, Coventry.

78254

PO

Observer

British

235 Squadron

Martin was born in 1914. He joined the RAFVR in February 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (743098). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 5 B&GS, Jurby, on No 4 Air Observer Course, which ran from January 1 to March 23 1940. Martin was commissioned and joined 235 Squadron at North Coates on April 1 1940. Awarded the DFC (7.12.43), as a Flight Lieutenant with 502 Squadron, Martin was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. He rejoined the RAFVR in May 1948, as a Flying Officer. PO 24.3.40 FO 24.3.41 FL 24.3.42 FO (RAFVR) 24.5.48

JOHN CLAVERLY MARTIN 40313

FO

Pilot

New Zealander

32 and 257 Squadrons

Born in Timaru on May 6 1914, Martin was at the High School there from January 1929 to December 1932. He applied for a short service commission in April 1937 and after provisional acceptance, he sailed for the UK on August 14 1937 in the RMS Arawa.

PO 27.7.40 Martin began his flying training at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty on September 27, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on December 11 and with training completed, he joined 63 Squadron at Upwood on July 9 1938, to fly Fairey Battles. The squadron was disbanded into 12 OTU in early April 1940 and Martin was posted to 98 Squadron, AASF in France after April 16. The squadron acted as a pool in France and it

LUDWIK MARTEL 76812

PO

Pilot

Polish

54 and 603 Squadrons

Martel was born on March 5 1919. He arrived in England and was at RAF Eastchurch from January 1940. He was commissioned in the RAFVR in May and from June 1 he was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting.

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

would appear that Martin was only briefly with 98, before moving to 226 Squadron. After the fall of France, the squadron withdrew to England on June 16 and re-assembled at Thirsk, Yorkshire on the 18th. In August 1940 Martin volunteered for Fighter Command, joined 32 Squadron at Acklington in early September and moved to 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on the 17th. Martin was with the squadron until March 7 1941, when he joined 485 Squadron, the first all-New Zealand fighter squadron, then forming at Driffield. He was made a Flight Commander. On June 20 1941 Martin was attached to 222 Squadron at North Weald, as a Flight Commander. He claimed two enemy aircraft destroyed on August 19. The squadron was ordered to escort nine Blenheims to bomb targets in the Lille area on August 27 1941. On the return journey, German fighters made numerous rear and side attacks. Martin is known to have reached the Channel. A collision occurred, in which at least two British fighters were involved. As no one saw Martin attacked by the fighters or hit by flak it is assumed that his was one of the aircraft involved in the collision, as he failed to return to base. Martin is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 29.

Commissioned in January 1942, Massey was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He rejoined the RAFVR in June 1948.

APO 28.11.37 PO 30.9.38 FO 27.5.40

In June 1937 Mather joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740426) and did a two months elementary flying course. He was selected for six months’ training with the regular RAF in June 1939 and was attached to 213 Squadron, with which he went on active service at the outbreak of war. He joined 611 Squadron at Duxford on September 19 and he was commissioned on April 1 1940. Mather was posted to 66 Squadron at Duxford on the 8th. On June 19 he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88, on July 10 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17, on September 2 he shared a He 111 and on the 15th he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged a He 111. Mather was shot down in combat over the Thames Estuary on September 18 and baled out, unhurt. His Spitfire, R 6925, is believed to have crashed near Coldred. On October 27 1940 Mather was killed, when his Spitfire, P 7539, crashed and burned out at Half Moon Lane, Hildenborough. The cause of the crash is unknown but he may have been the victim of anoxia. Mather is buried in St Margaret’s churchyard, Ifield, Sussex. He is also remembered on a memorial plaque at Dulwich College, which was unveiled on March 14 2002.

PO 24.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 24.1.44 FO (RAFVR) 7.6.48

JOHN ROMNEY MATHER 78976

Pilot

British

808 Squadron

Martin entered the Air Branch of the RNVR on January 20 1939. He was called for permanent service on August 27 1939. With training completed, he joined 808 Squadron at Wick on July 22 1940, flying Fulmars on dockyard defence. Martin embarked with the squadron on HMS Ark Royal on October 22 and he was killed on November 27 1940. He is remembered on the Fleet Air Arm Memorial at Lee-on-Solent. Midshipman 20.1.39 Actg Sub-Lt 8.4.40

THOMAS ARTHUR MASLEN 615059

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

Pilot

British

66 Squadron

Mather was born at Blackheath on May 19 1915. His father worked for the Tata Steel and Iron Co in India. He was at Dulwich College from 1928 to 1932 and after leaving, he joined the Hudson’s Bay Co. He worked for them in London until 1937, going then to work for Stewarts and Lloyds, firstly in Glasgow and later at Corby, in Northamptonshire.

RICHARD MAURICE SCOTT MARTIN Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

PO

235 Squadron PO 1.4.40

Maslen, of Bath, joined the RAF in July 1938, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG and with training completed, he was with 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton in early July 1940.

JAMES URQUHART MATHERS 1003686

On December 9 1940 Maslen was posted away to 8 AACU at Pengam Moor, Somerset. He was killed on October 25 1941, in a Magister, which crashed at Impens Farm, North Newton. The pilot, Sergeant R Bedkowski, was also killed. Maslen is buried in Haycombe Cemetery, Englishcombe, Somerset.

Sgt

Pilot

British

39363

British

FL

Pilot

British

222 Squadron

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 12 1936. Matheson was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on January 16 1937 and with the course completed, he joined 41 Squadron at Catterick on August 7 1937. On March 20 1939 Matheson joined 19 Squadron at Duxford from 41. On February 1 1940 he went to the Photographic Development Unit at Heston but rejoined 19 Squadron one week later. Matheson was with 222 Squadron at Hornchurch by June 3 1940, as ‘A’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on August 30 but was then shot down himself and made a crash-landing near Sittingbourne, in Spitfire P 9443, injured. His next sortie was made on September 21.On September 30 he was again shot down, crash-landing near Sittingbourne. The aircraft later exploded but he was unhurt. On August 24 1943 Matheson was killed, as a Squadron Leader with 418 Squadron, operating in Mosquitos from Ford. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 118.

WILLIAM MASON Pilot

23 and 29 Sqdns

GEOFFREY CHARLES MATHESON

He rejoined 263 Squadron at Turnhouse on May 9 1940. Mason was with 263 on its second expedition to Norway, which landed at Bardufoss on May 21 1940. He did not return in the ill-fated carrier HMS Glorious, which was sunk en route to the UK. Mason was still with 263 Squadron in November 1940. There is no documentary evidence that he is entitled to the Battle of Britain clasp but he could be eligible and is in this work until proved otherwise.

Sgt

British

Mathers then moved to 29 Squadron at Digby on the 28th and flew his first sortie with his new squadron on the 29th. No further service details traced.

263 Squadron

Mason enlisted in the RAF on September 24 1935, as a Boy Entrant. At some time later he applied for pilot training and was selected. With training completed, he was at 11 Group Pool, St Athan in November 1939. On the 14th he was posted to 263 Squadron and joined it at Filton on the 17th. Mason was posted from 263 to 141 Squadron at Grangemouth on December 9 1939.

745149

Radar Operator

Mathers joined the RAFVR about June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. He volunteered for flying duties and went on a short radar course, after which he joined 23 Squadron at Middle Wallop in September. He flew his first sortie with the squadron on the 19th and his last on October 25.

DENNIS WILLIAM MASON 550478

AC 2

235 Squadron

Mason, of York, joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on October 2 1940. He was killed on February 14 1941, as a Sergeant with 235, aged 24. Mason is buried in York Cemetery.

APO 6.1.37 PO 12.10.37 FO 12.7.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

KENNETH MASSEY

KENNETH MATHEWS

115600

Sgt

Pilot

British

248 Squadron

82954

Massey joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754366). Called up on September 1, he completed training and joined 248 Squadron on September 25 1940. His first sortie was on the 28th.

PO

Pilot

British

23 Squadron

Mathews was born in Feltham, Middlesex on March 19 1916. He was at Harrow County School from 1927 to 1933 and after leaving he joined the staff of the Royal Geographical Society, as a Junior Assistant.

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PETER GERALD HUGH MATTHEWS

He joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745501). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at an FTS on August 2 1940. Mathews was commissioned and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 3. After converting to Blenheims, he joined 23 Squadron at Wittering on August 18. He commanded 534 Squadron, a Turbinlite Havoc unit at Tangmere, from September 1942 until its disbandment on January 25 1943. Mathews was killed on October 20 1943, as a Squadron Leader with 25 Squadron, operating with Mosquitos from Church Fenton. He failed to return from a bomber-support sortie over Germany, in Mosquito DZ 689. His navigator, Flying Officer D C Burrows, baled out and was captured on landing. He was a PoW until the end of the war. Mathews

40247

HENRY GEORGE MATTHEWS Wop/AG

British

236 Squadron

Matthews was born on January 30 1920. He joined the RAF in June 1939, as an Aircrafthand (647815). He later remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG and after completing his training, he joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on September 3 1940. He was awarded the DFM (25.11.41). Commissioned in June 1942, Matthews stayed on in the RAF, in the Secretarial Branch. He retired on January 30 1969, as a Squadron Leader. PO 4.6.42 FO 4.12.42 FL 4.6.44 FL 4.12.46 SL 1.1.54

HENRY KEY FIELDING MATTHEWS 40551

FO

Pilot

British

54 and 603 Squadrons

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on November 29 1937, as a pupil pilot. Matthews was posted to 9 FTS Hullavington on March 5 1938 and with training completed, he joined 64 Squadron at Church Fenton on September 17 1938. Matthews was still with 64 Squadron at the outbreak of war. He was posted away to 54 Squadron at Catterick on May 27 1940. On July 9 he shared in the destruction of a He 59, on the 27th he damaged a Bf 109, on August 12 he destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another, on the 18th he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and a Bf 110, on the 24th he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 25th he destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another. The squadron returned to Catterick on September 2 1940 and on the 29th Matthews joined 603 Squadron at Hornchurch. On October 2 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 W of Croydon. On October 7 Matthews was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 109s, by Feldwebel Roth of 4/JG 26. His Spitfire, N 3109, crashed at Hurst Farm, Godmersham. Matthews was 28. He is buried in Crystal Palace District Cemetery.

DAVID ALEXANDER MAXWELL 84962

Pilot

British

PO

Pilot

British

611 and 603 Squadrons

Maxwell joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754510). Called up on September 1, he carried out his elementary flying training at 22 EFTS, Cambridge and completed it at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 49 Course, which ran from June 16 to September 6 1940. He was commissioned and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 7 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 611 Squadron at Ternhill on September 30. Maxwell moved to 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on October 19 and flew his first operational sortie with the squadron on the 20th. He went to 66 Squadron at West Malling on December 25 1940. Maxwell was killed on February 14 1941, as a Pilot Officer with 66 Squadron, aged 24. His body was never recovered. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 33.

IAN WALTER MATTHEWS Sgt

1 Squadron

APO 24.10.37 PO 23.8.38 FO 23.3.40 FL 23.3.41 SL 1.6.42 SL 1.8.46 WC 1.7.53

APO 19.2.38 PO 29.11.38 FO 29.8.40

102092

British

He planned to follow his father and he was scheduled to go to Liverpool University in 1941. Matthews joined the RAF on a short service commission on August 23 1937 and began his ab initio course at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell. He was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on October 24 1937. With training completed, he was posted to No 1 Air Armament School at Manby, on June 6 1938, as a stafff pilot on drogue-towing duties. On August 20 1939 Matthews was posted to No 1 Squadron at Tangmere. He went to France with the squadron at the outbreak of war. On December 7 1939 Matthews wrote off a Hurricane, when he made a forced-landing at St Dizier after his engine seized. Matthews destroyed a Bf 110 and possibly another on May 16 1940 and destroyed a He 111 and possibly another on June 5. The squadron returned to Tangmere on June 17 1940 and on that day Matthews shared a He 111 over St Nazaire. On July 31 he damaged a Do 17, on August 15 damaged a Ju 88, on the 16th destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 30th damaged a He 111. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on November 10 1940 and on April 29 1941 he was posted to 52 OTU, Debden, as ‘C’ Flight Commander. He was awarded the DFC (13.5.41). Matthews was given command of 74 Squadron at Llanbedr on November 3 1941. He took it to the Middle East in April 1942 and led it until July 10. It had no aircraft out there during Matthews’ time of command. He damaged a Ju 87 on July 3 1942, flying a Hurricane of 73 Squadron. Matthews took command of 145 Squadron in the Western Desert on August 30 1942. He damaged a Bf 109 on September 1, got a probable Mc 202 on the 2nd, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 11th, shared a Ju 52 on the 29th, probably destroyed a Bf 109 on October 21, destroyed another on the 23rd and shared one on the 27th. During an engagement with Bf 109s and Stukas on November 3, Matthews was shot down and baled out into the Mediterranean. After four hours in his dinghy he was picked up by an ASR launch. At the end of the month Matthews went to HQ ME in the Delta, and was posted as CGI to 71 OTU, Carthago, S of Port Sudan. In April 1943 the unit moved to Ismailia. Matthews returned to operations on August 15 1943, taking command of 111 Squadron at Panebianco, Sicily. He destroyed a Fiesler Storch on December 2. Matthews was injured in a motor accident in December, was taken to hospital in North Africa and afterwards returned to the UK, where he was posted to Bentley Priory as Tactics 2. In the post-war years Matthews was Air Attaché in Prague for three years and Permanent President Courts Martial for two. He retired from the RAF on May 8 1966, as a Wing Commander, retaining the rank of Group Captain. He received the Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Services in the Air in January 1956. Matthews died on October 2 1991.

PO 3.8.40 FO 21.7.41 FL 21.7.42

Sgt

Pilot

Born in Liverpool on May 8 1919, Matthews was the son of a veterinary surgeon.

was 27. He is buried in Sneek Cemetery, Netherlands.

49220

FO

64 Squadron

Matthews, of Eltham, London, joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748261).

PO 7.9.40 Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield on the 22rd. He flew his first operational sortie on the 26th. Commissioned in July 1941, Matthews was with 238 Squadron in the Western Desert in 1942. On September 1 he was attacked by two Bf 109s, shot down and killed, S of El Imayid. Matthews was 21. He is buried in the El Alamein War Cemetery.

HUGH LOCKHART MAXWELL 25046

SL

Pilot

British

600 Squadron

Born on December 21 1908, Maxwell was commissioned in the Supplementary Reserve of Officers in the late 1920s. He relinquished this commission and was granted one in the Regular Army on August 29 1930, as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Northamptonshire Regiment. Maxwell was granted a temporary commission in the RAF on September 16 1935, as a Flying Officer. He was posted to No 1 FTS, Leuchars on September 23 and with training

PO 17.7.41

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trouble and was making a forced-landing in the Qattara Depression. His aircraft was found and there being no trace of him, it was presumed that he had been captured. Mayers was not heard of again and may have been lost in a Ju 52, which was shot down whilst ferrying PoWs to Germany. He was awarded the DSO (28.7.42) and his name is on the Alamein Memorial, Column 247.

completed, he joined 26 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Catterick on April 27 1936. He became a Captain in the Northamptonshire Regiment on August 29 1938 and a Flight Lieutenant in the RAF on September 16 1938, with seniority to September 16 1937. Maxwell was later with 18 Squadron at Upper Heyford. He was posted to command 600 Squadron at Redhill on September 16 1940, which he did until December 15, when he went to HQ 13 Group, Newcastle, as a Night Controller. Maxwell was awarded the DSO (22.11.40). He was Station Commander at Hornchurch from July 20 to October 28 1943 and at Biggin Hill from November 1943 to February 1945. Maxwell was made a CBE (1.1.45). He retired from the RAF on June 10 1956 as a Group Captain, retaining the rank of Air Commodore.

PO 11.3.40 FO 29.12.40 FL 1.10.41

PAUL FRANCIS MAYHEW 74336

FO

Pilot

British

32 and 79 Squadrons

FO 16.9.35 FL 16.9.37 SL 1.3.40 WC 1.9.41 GC 1.1.46 Mayhew, of Felthorpe, Norfolk, was educated at Haileybury College and then Christ Church, Oxford, where he read Modern Greats. He was a member of the University Air Squadron in 1939 and in June he joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754284).

WALTER MAXWELL 967872

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

264 Squadron

Maxwell, of Meols, Cheshire, joined the RAFVR in September 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. With training completed, he joined 264 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on August 4 1940.

Called to full-time service in September, he was commissioned on the 26th and sent to No 1 ITW, Cambridge. In mid-November Mayhew was posted to RAF College FTS, Cranwell for No 6 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 9 1940. He was awarded his flying badge in February 1940 and was with the Advanced Training Squadron of his course when it arrived at 10 B&GS, Warmwell on April 26 1940. With the course completed, he went to No 1 School of Army Co operation, Old Sarum on May 9. Mayhew was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 23 1940. After converting to Spitfires, he was posted to 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on July 6, to fly Hurricanes. He moved to 79 Squadron at Sealand on July 11. On August 15 he damaged a Bf 110. On August 27 the squadron went south to Biggin Hill and next day Mayhew shared in the destruction of a He 59. His Hurricane was damaged in combat on the 29th. He shot down a He 111 on the 30th and a Do 17 on September 1. The squadron moved to Pembrey on September 8. Mayhew was one of a section which intercepted eight He 111s over the Irish Sea in the evening of September 29. He chased them but found himself alone when he caught up, about 15 miles off the Irish coast. In the face of intense cross-fire, Mayhew made some attacks, resulting in the Heinkels jettisoning their bombs and heading for home. At this time other 79 Hurricanes arrived and made attacks. One Heinkel was hit and began to fall back, with one engine smoking. Mayhew made a further attack on this aircraft, which went down and was later confirmed as destroyed. The other Hurricanes turned for home but Mayhew continued to chase the surviving Heinkels. Some time later he found himself over the Atlantic about 70 miles SW of Wexford. He turned for home and with darkness approaching fast and very low on fuel, he made a wheels-up landing in a stubble field at Enniscorthy, Co Wexford. Mayhew was interned by the Irish authorities and held at Curragh Camp, Dublin. His Hurricane, P 5178, was impounded. In December he obtained permission from Air Ministry to give his parole to travel to Dublin each day from the Curragh to study for an Honours Degree under tutorship from Dublin University. Later in December, Mayhew was joined by other internees. On January 20 1941 he and three others broke out of their compound in heavy snow. He was recaptured when nine miles from Dublin. In the early hours of June 26 1941 Mayhew led a well-prepared escape, with nine other internees. He and five others managed to reach Northern Ireland. Back in England, Mayhew married and returned to 79 Squadron, then at Fairwood Common. In late 1941 he was made a Flight Commander and in December the squadron moved to Baginton, to prepare for a possible move overseas. Defensive patrols were still being flown in February 1942 and on the 19th Mayhew led his flight on an uneventful one. On return to Baginton, he ordered his pilots to land but he stayed up. Soon afterwards he flew across the aerodrome but, on turning, his engine stalled and he was too low to recover height and he crashed. Mayhew was severely injured, did not recover consciousness and died five minutes after reaching hospital. He was 22 and was cremated at Perry Bar Crematorium, Birmingham.

In an action with Bf 109s on August 26, Maxwell was gunner in Defiant L 7025, shot down into the sea, two miles off Herne Bay. The pilot, Flying Officer I R Stephenson, baled out and was rescued from the sea. Maxwell’s body was never found. He was reported ‘Missing’. He was 23 and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 17. An apartment block, built in Wirral, Cheshire in 2006 was named Maxwell Court in his memory.

HOWARD CLIVE MAYERS 77976

PO

Pilot

Australian

601 Squadron

Mayers was born in Sydney on January 9 1910. He was at Canford School and later Jesus College, Cambridge, where he read Engineering. He was a member of the University Air Squadron in 1929 and was commissioned in the RAFO in 1930. He relinquished this on completion of his service. Mayers lived in London before the war and he was Managing Director of a company. He was granted a directentry commission in the RAFVR on March 11 1940, as a Flying Officer on probation. His first posting was to 5 MU, Kemble. He was posted from there to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 9 1940, to convert to Hurricanes. On the 19th he landed in a cornfield N of the aerodrome, when the engine of his Hurricane failed. He was unhurt. On August 3 Mayers was posted to 601 Squadron at Tangmere. Mayers probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 8th and destroyed a Ju 88 and probably another and damaged a Bf 110 on the 13th. During a patrol later the same day he probably destroyed a Bf 110 and was then shot down himself. Mayers baled out, was fired on by a Bf 110 but landed safely in the sea off Portland. He was picked up by an MTB and treated for slight shrapnel wounds at Portland Hospital. His Hurricane, P 2690, crashed into the Channel off Whitnose, Weymouth. On August 16 Mayers shot down two Ju 87s and probably a third that were attacking Tangmere. On the 18th he destroyed Bf 109, on the 31st he destroyed a Do 17 and damaged another, on September 4 he destroyed a Do 17 and shared in probably destroying a Bf 110 and on the 25th he shot down a Bf 110 and damaged a Do 17. Mayers was appointed temporary ‘A’ Flight Commander on September 28. He was awarded the DFC (1.10.40). He made a forced-landing S of Axminster on October 7, after glycol tank damage during a combat with Bf 110s over Portland. Mayers was slightly injured and the Hurricane, P 4218, was written off. On May 20 1941 he was posted away from 601 and in July he took command of 94 Squadron at Ismailia, Egypt. Mayers shared in destroying a Ju 88 on September 11, damaged a Bf 109 on November 23 and damaged another on December 8. During a strafing attack on a German column on December 25, Mayers saw one of his pilots shot down by ground fire. He landed near the crashed aircraft and although enemy vehicles were approaching he waited for the pilot to reach him, put him in the pilot’s seat, climbed in on top, took off and reached his base. For this action Mayers was awarded a Bar to the DFC (13.2.42). In January 1942 he was promoted to lead a Hurricane Wing. On April 26 he was appointed Wing Leader 239 Wing, with Kittyhawks. Mayers claimed a Ju 52 destroyed and another damaged on May 12 and a Bf 109 destroyed on July 8. He was leading the Wing on July 20 and is believed to have destroyed a Mc 202 before he himself was shot down by a Bf 109 of III/JG 53. Mayers radioed that he was having engine

PO 26.9.39 FO 26.9.40 FL 26.9.41

ERNEST MAYNE 46329

WO

Pilot

British

74 Squadron

Born in Newcastle-upon-Tyne on January 2 1901, Mayne was in the RFC in the Great War, from mid-1917. He transferred to the RAF on April 1 1918. As an airman pilot (82478), he was with 74 Squadron at its reformation on board the transport Neuralia at Southampton on September 3 1935. The squadron sailed for Malta, where it was stationed at Hal Far, remaining there for a year. 74 was in the UK on September 21 1936, at Hornchurch. Mayne was promoted to Warrant Officer on May 15 1940. Over Dunkirk on May 26, he shared in the probable destruction of a Hs 126 and on the 27th he destroyed a Bf 109.

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WILLIAM EDWARD GEOFFREY MEASURES

Mayne used to wear his RFC badge on his cap. On July 15 he left his cap at Manston to go on patrol. Instead of returning there, he was ordered to Hornchurch. He never saw his cap again and was said to be heartbroken at the loss of his badge. Mayne probably destroyed a Bf 109 and a Bf 110 and damaged another of each on August 11 1940. On this day his eardrums were damaged in a steep descent in action. It was his final operation. He had flown 2,000 hours in fighters. From that day he was mainly engaged in ferrying Spitfires around the Hornchurch sector and then Wittering and Kirton in-Lindsey subsequently. Mayne was posted away to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 17, as an instructor. The unit was redesignated 56 OTU on November 1 1940. Commissioned in August 1941, Mayne was awarded the AFC (1.1.42). In June 1945 he was posted to Manston, as Station Gunnery Officer. He retired on December 4 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. Mayne died on March 24 1978.

33198

Pilot

British

British

74 and 238 Squadrons

On November 20 1939 Measures was a member of a section, which shared in damaging a He 111 fifteen miles off Southend. The enemy aircraft escaped into cloud and reached its base, badly damaged and with three crew wounded. He was posted from 74 to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on January 15 1940. Presumably this was an error and he rejoined 74 on February 19. He received a Mention in Despatches (20.2.40). Measures was detached from 74 to AFDU, Northolt on May 7, for an Air Fighting Course. E of Dunkirk on May 21, Measures destroyed a He 111, on the 23rd he shared in destroying a Hs 126, on the 24th shared a Do 17 and on the 27th destroyed another. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on May 28 and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on June 15, with effect from May 28. Measures destroyed a He 111 on July 6, shared another on the 8th and damaged a Bf 110 and a Do 17 on the 10th. Measures relinquished his acting rank on July 24 1940, when he was posted away to 7 OTU, Hawarden, as an instructor. On October 12 1940 he joined 238 Squadron at Chilbolton, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. He was posted from 238 to 2 CFS, Cranwell on December 26 1940. In 1942 he was given command of 87 Squadron and led it to North Africa in November. He left the squadron in June 1943. Awarded the AFC (1.9.44), Measures retired from the RAF on November 23 1957 as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. Measures is remembered on a memorial plaque at Dulwich College, unveiled on March 14 2002.

JAMES REGINALD BRYAN MEAKER PO

Pilot

Measures was born on August 7 1916 and educated at Dulwich College. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1935, as a Flight Cadet. After graduation on July 30 1937, he received a Permanent Commission and joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch.

FO 21.8.41 FL 21.8.42

42514

FL

249 Squadron

Meaker was born in Kinsale, Co Cork on January 19 1919. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 26 1939, as a pupil pilot at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell. Meaker went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on August 19, for a short disciplinary course, after which he moved to 12 FTS, Grantham on September 2 1939. On February 24 1940 Meaker was posted to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down, to convert to Hurricanes. He joined 46 Squadron at Digby on March 31. After a short spell on flying duties at 27 MU from April 26 1940, Meaker went to 263 Squadron at Scapa Flow on May 4. The squadron Gladiators were loaded on to the carrier HMS Furious, which sailed for Norway on May 14. Meaker did not go to Norway but remained at Turnhouse awaiting posting instructions. He joined 249 Squadron soon after May 18. On August 15 Meaker claimed a Bf 110 destroyed, on the 24th a Bf 109, on September 2 he destroyed a Bf 110, shared a Do 17 and damaged another, on the 6th he destroyed two Bf 109s and on the 15th he destroyed two Do 17s, probably another and damaged a Bf 109. Meaker shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 on September 27. On this day he was shot down by return fire from a Ju 88. He baled out but fell dead at Warren Field, Brightling Park. His Hurricane, P 3834, crashed at Brake Field, Giffords Farm, Dallington. Meaker is buried in West Dean Cemetery, Sussex. He was awarded the DFC (8.10.40). In 1990 a memorial was placed near the spot where he was killed.

PO 31.7.37 FO 31.3.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.6.43

JOHN CHARLES OSWALD MEDWORTH 146294

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

25 Squadron

Medworth joined 600 Squadron, AAF in 1938, as an Aircrafthand (800609). Called up on August 24 1939, he probably remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and with training completed he joined 25 Squadron at North Weald in late September 1940 and flew a number of operational sorties in the Battle of Britain. He later retrained as a Radio Observer and was commissioned from Warrant Officer in April 1943. In August he was with 85 Squadron at West Malling. In the early hours of the 23rd he was flying with Flight Lieutenant G L Howitt. They intercepted and destroyed a Me 410, which crashed at Chelmondiston, Suffolk. Medworth was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 25.4.43 FO 25.10.43 FL 25.4.45

APO 19.8.39 PO 24.2.40

CHARLES VICTOR MEESON

STANLEY THOMAS MEARES 37683

FL

Pilot

British

748697

Sgt

Pilot

British

56 Squadron

54 Squadron Meeson, of Loughton, Essex, joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 6 FTS, Little Rissington on No 19 Course, which ran from April 27 to August 3 1940.

Born in Sidcup, Kent in 1916 and educated at King’s School, Bruton, Somerset, Meares joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on January 27 1936, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 9 FTS, Thornaby on April 4 and with training completed, he joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on January 4 1937. Meares was posted to HQ Fighter Command late in 1939 and he was Senior Controller at Hornchurch throughout the Battle of Britain. He was not on the strength of 54 during the Battle but flew one operational sortie with the squadron, from Hornchurch, on August 12 1940, when he joined a patrol of 55 minutes duration, qualifying him for the clasp. In the book Readiness at Dawn, written by Squadron Leader Ronald Adam and published in 1941, all the characters were based on actual people. Meares is characterised as Squadron Leader James Glebe. In May 1941 Meares joined 611 Squadron at Westhampnett, as a Flight Commander. On May 28 he destroyed a Bf 109 and on June 22 he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another. He was given command of 74 Squadron at Gravesend on June 30 1941. On July 4 and 5 he damaged Bf 109s. Meares was awarded the DFC (22.7.41). He was posted to command 71 (Eagle) Squadron at North Weald on August 24 1941. On October 2 he destroyed a Bf 109. On a training flight on November 15 1941, Meares collided with Pilot Officer R O Scarborough. Both men were killed. He was 25. He is buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery, Woking.

He went directly to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge and after converting to Hurricanes, Meeson joined 56 Squadron at North Weald on August 31. He was killed on September 20 1940, in a flying accident during a formation practice. Meeson crashed in Hurricane L 1595 W of Bulford Camp, near Amesbury. He was 21 and is buried in Loughton Burial Ground.

JAMES COSMO MELVILL 74681

FO

Pilot

British

264 Squadron

Born on April 12 1920, Melvill was educated at Eton and Trinity College, Cambridge, where he read Mechanical Sciences. He learned to fly with the University Air Squadron and joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754332). Called up on September 1, he was commissioned in November. With training completed, he arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 17 1940. After converting to Defiants, Melvill joined 264 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on September 2 1940.

APO 23.3.36 PO 27.1.37 FO 27.10.38 FL 5.4.40

After being damaged in an engagement at night over London on March 8 1941, Melvill

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On the 30th he claimed a He 111 destroyed and on the 31st a Bf 110 destroyed and another damaged. In the combat over Chelmsford his aircraft was set alight and Merchant baled out. He was admitted to Halstead Cottage Hospital, with burns. His Hurricane, V 7375, crashed and burned out on Ovington Hall Farm, Halstead. He rejoined the squadron on October 8. From November 26 to December 24 1940 Merchant was at CFS, Upavon for an instructors’ course on Masters and Tutors. Commissioned in August 1941, he was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant.

landed back at Luton. Instead of turning off the flarepath he taxied down it and was struck by a Defiant taking off. Both he and his gunner, Sergeant W L Butler, were injured. At some time Melvill was treated at Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead and was a Guinea Pig. From May 1942 until August 1943 Melvill commanded 247 Squadron. He was instructing in 1944 and received the AFC (1.9.44). He commanded 174 Squadron from August 1944 until January 1945. Melvill was released in 1946 as a Squadron Leader. PO 3.10.39 FO 3.10.40 FL 3.10.41

GEORGE HOLMES MELVILLE-JACKSON 80842

PO

Pilot

British

236 Squadron

PO 13.8.41 FO 13.8.42 FL 13.8.43

Born in Weston-super-Mare on November 23 1919, Melville-Jackson attended St Lawrence College, Ramsgate. He joined the RAFVR in June 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741717).

ARTHUR DOUGLAS MEREDITH 62651

Sgt

Pilot

British

242 and 141 Squadrons

Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training, was commissioned and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 22 1940. After converting to Blenheims, he was posted to 236 Squadron on July 9. He was still on 236 on November 21 1940. In August 1941 Melville-Jackson was with 272 Squadron in Malta. He moved to 248 Squadron in August 1942, still in Malta. On the 15th he shot down a Fiat BR 20. His aircraft was damaged in the action and he made a crash-landing at Luqa. On October 13 1942 Melville-Jackson destroyed a Ju 88. On February 9 1943 he shared in the destruction of three Ju 88s. He was awarded the DFC (20.4.43), as a Flight Lieutenant with 248. The citation credited him with at least four enemy aircraft destroyed. Melville-Jackson was released from the RAF in 1946 and he went to Cambridge University, before becoming co-headmaster at St Felix School at Felixstowe. Melville-Jackson joined the RAFVR in 1949 and rejoined the RAF in 1952. He commanded 25 Squadron at Tangmere from October 1957 to July 1958. After three years in the USA, he became Sector Controller of the Uedem air defence radar site in Germany. Melville-Jackson retired on September 29 1968 as a Wing Commander. He died on March 7 2009.

Meredith joined the RAFVR in May 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741470) and trained at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty on Avro Cadets and Hawker Harts. Called up on September 1 1939, he was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose on December 19 1939 and after completing the course there, he joined 17 Squadron at Hawkinge on May 10 1940.

PO 22.6.40 FO 22.6.41 FL 22.6.42 SL 14.1.46 FL (RAFVR) 18.11.49 WC 1.1.58

PO 12.3.41 FO 12.3.42 FL 12.3.43

THOMAS NATHAN MENAGE

HERBERT WALDEMAR MERMAGEN

518613

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

With no Hurricane experience, Meredith went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 27, to convert, after which he was posted to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on June 6 1940, for onward posting to France. He joined No 1 Squadron in France on June 7. He then joined a detachment of 242 Squadron in France on June 13. The detachment was withdrawn to Church Fenton on the 16th. Meredith moved to 141 Squadron at Grangemouth on August 10 1940. Commissioned in March 1941, he destroyed a He 111 at night on May 6 at Cresswell, Northumberland, flying in a Defiant from Acklington, with Sergeant W H Mott as his gunner. Meredith remained with the squadron until June 25 1942, when he was posted to 1530 (BAT) Flight at Hunsdon, as an instructor. He was awarded the AFC (8.6.44). From September 4 1944 to June 18 1945, Meredith was on anti aircraft co-operation duties, serving with 288, 597 and 598 Squadrons. He was released on October 16 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant.

29 Squadron

29097

Menage joined the RAF in November 1934, as an Aircrafthand. After the outbreak of war, he remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and with training completed, he joined 29 Squadron at Digby in September 1940.

Pilot

British

609 Squadron

Mercer, of Broadstairs, Kent, joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his elementary training at 22 EFTS, Cambridge and went on to 5 FTS, Sealand for No 49 Course, from June 16 to September 7 1940. He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 7 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 609 Squadron at Middle Wallop on September 29. Mercer was killed on May 9 1941, whilst trying to make a forced-landing on the beach at St Margaret’s Bay. He was still with 609. He was 24 years old and is buried in Folkestone New Cemetery.

HENRY JAMES MERCHANT 108856

Sgt

Pilot

British

British

222 and 266 Squadrons

Mermagen was posted to CFS, Upavon in February 1934, for an instructor’s course. He became Flying Instructor with the Oxford University Air Squadron in May and on April 1 1935 he joined the staff at 6 FTS, Netheravon. On June 1 1936 he was granted a Permanent Commission. Mermagen joined the staff at CFS on August 17 1936. He led the Inverted Flying Formation at the 1937 Hendon Air Display and performed individual aerobatics before the King on May 9 1938. As Officer i/c Handling Flight at CFS, he flew all the new prototype fighters and bombers before they were in squadron use. On February 27 1939 Mermagen assumed command of RAF Usworth. He relinquished this on September 2 1939, when it was upgraded to a Wing Commander post. He remained at Usworth, in the post of Officer i/c Administration and Operations. On October 5 1939 Mermagen moved to RAF Duxford, to reform and then command 222 Squadron, initially with Blenheims but with Spitfires from March 1940. Over Dunkirk on June 1 he destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 19th he damaged a He 111 at night over Hull. He was awarded the AFC (11.7.40). On July 31 1940 Mermagen was posted from 222 to RAF Warmwell, for Ops duties. He joined HQ 9 Group from Warmwell on August 9, again for Ops duties. He was attached to HQ 12 Group on August 12. He temporarily commanded 266 Squadron at Wittering from September 12 to 17 1940. Mermagen ceased to be attached to HQ 12 Group and was posted from HQ 9 Group to RAF Speke on September 23 1940, to command, with the rank of Acting Wing Commander. He relinquished command of RAF Speke on March 12 1941 and assumed command at RAF Valley. Mermagen was posted to the Middle East in June, where he commanded the Fighter Sector Station at Port Said and then 259 Wing in Cyprus. Whilst there, as Service Training Officer at HQ Middle East, he flew a Spitfire VBS floatplane from Lake Timsor, one of the few RAF pilots to do so. In July 1944 Mermagen returned to the UK and served on the staff of HQ AEAF and later

ROBERT TURNER DEIGHTON MERCER Sgt

Pilot

Born on February 1 1912 at Southsea, Mermagen was educated at Brighton College. He joined the RAF on a short service commission in June 1930. He was posted to 2 FTS, Digby on July 12 and soloed in an Avro 504K on August 1. With his flying training completed, he joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere on June 23 1931.

He was still with 29 in November 1940 and was posted away to 11 OTU on February 4 1941. He was killed on May 10 1941, as a Sergeant with 149 Squadron, operating in Wellingtons from Mildenhall. He failed to return from an operation to Hamburg in Wellington R 1512, lost without trace. Menage is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 48.

748316

SL

1 Squadron

Merchant joined the RAFVR about December 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741034). Called up on September 1 1939, he arrived at 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on February 10 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to No 1 Squadron in France but probably did not join it until May 14 1940. On July 31 Merchant shared in damaging a Do 17. On August 23 he ran out of fuel on a night patrol and crashed at Hunt’s Farm, Withyham, in Hurricane P 2980. He was slightly injured

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SHAEF at Versailles until July 1945, when he was posted to Berlin, as AOC British Air Command. Mermagen held various appointments and commands at home and overseas before retiring from the RAF on November 14 1960 as an Air Commodore. He was made an OBE (24.9.41), a CBE (1.1.45) and a CB (11.6.60). He was a Commander, Legion of Merit (US)(1946), was awarded the Medal of Distinguished Services (USSR)(28.8.45) and was made a Chevalier, Légion d’Honneur (Fr) (1951). Mermagen died in January 1998.

After a combat with Bf 110s over Southampton on September 26 1940, during which he damaged a Bf 110, Merryweather made a forced-landing at Hambledon, in Hurricane V 6745. He was wounded and slightly burned. He had not flown any further sorties with 229 Squadron by November 15. He was killed on June 5 1942, as a Warrant Officer with 174 Squadron, operating in Hurricanes from Manston. Merryweather was 27 and he is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 72. He was awarded the DFM (26.6.42).

PO 27.6.30 FO 27.1.32 FL 27.1.36 SL 1.10.38 WC 1.12.40 GC 1.1.44 WC 1.10.46 GC 1.1.49 AC 1.7.55

BERTRAM WILLIAM MESNER 745987

Sgt

Observer

Sgt

Observer

British

235 Squadron

Born in 1919, Merrett joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (751686). He carried out navigation exercises at Luton Airport in Ansons.

Mesner was in the crew of a Blenheim, which failed to return from a reconnaissance of the Fye-Stadlandet sector of the Norwegian coast on September 13 1940. The pilot, Sergeant W J Garfield, was killed and the gunner, Sergeant A Kay, and Mesner were both reported ‘Missing’. Mesner was 29. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 17.

At the outbreak of war he was called to full-time service and posted to the School of Navigation at Staverton, as an LAC. Following a course at 4 B&GS, West Freugh, Merrett joined 235 Squadron at North Coates on March 26 1940. The squadron served with Fighter Command during the Battle of Britain. When it was over, 235 returned to its coastal work. Merrett was commissioned in August 1941 and on the 6th he was posted away to Cranage, for an instructor’s course, after which he went to 5 OTU, Chivenor and later RAF Turnberry. In November 1942 Merrett joined 612 Squadron at Wick, operating in Whitleys on longrange patrols over the sea. At the end of the year the squadron was searching for the Gneisenau and Scharnhorst but had no success. In March 1943 Merrett’s flight was re-numbered as 179 Squadron, equipped with Leigh Light Wellingtons for anti-submarine operations. It operated from Gibraltar. On January 3 1944 Merrett was posted to 6 OTU, Silloth, as a navigation instructor. He moved to 4 RFU, Mullage Moor, Northern Ireland in October, training on radar/sonar for anti-submarine work. In February 1945 Merrett was posted to 3 School of General Reconnaissance, as an instructor. He later moved to RAF Leuchars. Merrett was seconded to BOAC but did not take up the appointment. He was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in May 2010.

ARTHUR CHARLES METCALFE 800630

Pilot

British

Air Gunner

British

604 Squadron

The last mention of Metcalfe in the 604 Squadron ORB was on October 21 1940. He appears to have served as an Air Gunner in Bomber Command later in the war. Post war, Metcalfe returned to his old job with Dyson, Bell and Co. He represented the company in both the House of Commons and the House of Lords. On April 5 1984 the Speaker of the House of Commons thanked Metcalfe for 50 years of service to the House. Metcalfe died in Sidcup on October 19 1994 and his ashes were scattered at Tankerton, Kent.

CLAUDE MERRICK PO

Sgt

Metcalfe was born in Hackney on July 16 1918 and attended Haberdashers’ Aske’s Hampstead School. On leaving school he worked for Dyson, Bell and Co as a parliamentary clerk. He joined 600 Squadron, AAF in October 1938, as an Aircrafthand. Called up on August 24 1939, he volunteered for aircrew duties and flew his first operational sortie on October 3. He was posted to 604 Squadron on May 24 1940 and flew his first operational sortie on June 3, a patrol with Flying Officer Scott.

PO 19.8.41 FO 19.8.42 FL 19.8.43

83256

248 Squadron

Mesner, of Forest Gate, Essex, joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and probably joined 248 Squadron at Gosport in late March 1940. He was attached to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth on May 31 and he rejoined 248 on June 29.

JOHN CHARLES MERRETT 104441

British

610 Squadron

Merrick joined the RAFVR about October 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742194). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on No 7 Course, which ran from April 29 to July 20 1940. He was commissioned and joined 610 Squadron at Biggin Hill on July 27 1940.

JAMES METHAM 47370

Merrick was attached to 7 OTU, Hawarden from July 29 to August 12, when he rejoined 610 Squadron. He flew his first operational sortie on the 14th. He was shot down on August 24 by Bf 109s over the Thames Estuary and made a crash-landing at Fyfield. He was admitted to Ongar Hospital, slightly wounded. He did not return to 610 Squadron in 1940. On the night of June 5 1944 Merrick was pilot of an Albemarle, detailed to drop paratroops in Northern France. They were to prepare and light a landing zone, for the use of airborne forces spearheading the invasion. On the success of this vital operation depended the success of later parachute and glider landings in the Caen area. In spite of bad weather, Merrick executed his mission faultlessly. He was awarded the DFC (14.7.44), as an Acting Squadron Leader with 295 Squadron. Merrick also received the Bronze Star (US) (30.10.45). He was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Wing Commander. He died in 1984.

Sgt

Pilot

British

253 Squadron

Metham, of Blackpool, was educated at Palatine Central Boys’ School. He joined the RAF on September 1 1931, as an Aircraft Apprentice (565631), and passed out in August 1934, as a Metal Rigger. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. With training completed, he arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 28 1940, converted to Hurricanes and then joined 253 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on June 9. In the early morning of September 2 1940 he was shot down by Bf 109s in combat over Thanet and baled out, badly burned. His Hurricane, P 2946, is believed to be the one which crashed at Longport, Crundale. Metham was in hospital for six months. He was commissioned in October 1941 and was killed on September 21 1942, serving as a Flight Lieutenant flying instructor at 59 OTU. His Hurricane, P 3255 is reported to have spun in and crashed at Cark, Lancashire. Metham was 28. He was cremated at Carleton Crematorium, Poulton-le-Fylde, Lancashire.

PO 27.7.40 FO 27.1.42 FL 27.1.43

PO 29.10.41

SYDNEY WILLIAM MERRYWEATHER 517691

Sgt

Pilot

British

229 Squadron

REGINALD HENRY ROWE MEYER 100613

Merryweather joined the RAF about August 1934, as an Aircrafthand. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. With training completed, it would appear that he joined 264 Squadron when it reformed at Sutton Bridge on October 30 1939.

Sgt Pilot

British

236 Squadron

Meyer, of Holborn, London, joined the RAFVR about December 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742657). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and joined 236 Squadron on October 20 1940.

He joined 229 Squadron at Digby from 264 on November 25 1939. He was posted to France with a 229 detachment for eight days in May 1940. He destroyed a Bf 109 and over Dunkirk in late May, he destroyed another.

Commissioned in July 1941, Meyer was killed on February 9 1944, as a Flight Lieutenant

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

The squadron had operated from Hornchurch earlier in August but had moved north to re-equip with the Spitfire IIa, whilst maintaining patrols in September and October, to cover Duxford. When he was posted away on March 8 1941, to join 485 then forming at Driffield, Middleton had flown 57 operational sorties with 266 Squadron. On May 4 1941 he collided with a crashed Whitley, whilst taking off on a night exercise. He was injured and admitted to York Military Hospital and did not rejoin the squadron, then stationed at Redhill, until August 23. Four days later Middleton took off for a sweep over France. He failed to return and was reported ‘Missing’. He is buried in Dunkirk Communal Cemetery. Middleton is named on a war memorial in Newmarket, Auckland.

with 252 Squadron, based at Mersa Matruh West and operating in Beaufighters. Meyer was 23 and is buried in Phaleron War Cemetery, Athens. PO 3.7.41 FO 3.7.42 FL 3.7.43

ALBERT CHARLES ANTOINE MICHIELS 141761

Sgt

Observer

Belgian

235 Squadron

Michiels, of Brussels, was in the Aviation Militaire Belge before the war. After the collapse of France, he made his way to England and joined the RAFVR (1299982). He went to 235 Squadron, Bircham Newton on September 26 1940.

APO 26.10.39 PO 28.5.40 FO 28.5.41

On November 19 1940 one flight each of 235 and 236 Squadrons were posted to RAF Aldergrove and combined to reform 272 Squadron on the 21st. Michiels was there and he flew his first sortie with 272 on the 24th. He carried out pilot training at 5 FTS between July 9 and October 31 1941. Commissioned in January 1943, Michiels was killed on July 16 1944. He was the sole occupant of Magister R 1858, flying from Cosford to Woodley which struck two trees in succession and crashed, killing Michiels instantly. He was buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery and his remains were repatriated to Belgium after the war. He was posthumously awarded the Croix de Guerre (Belg) avec palme and, also posthumously, was made a Chevalier de l’Ordre de Leopold avec palme.

BOGUSLAW MIERZWA P 1389

Wop/AG

British

235 Squadron

Middlemiss was born in Edinburgh in 1915 and was educated there. He joined the RAFVR in November 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. With training completed, he joined 235 Squadron, Bircham Newton, on September 26 1940. On November 19 1940 one flight each of 235 and 236 Squadrons were posted to RAF Aldergrove, where they were combined to reform 272 Squadron on the 21st. Middlemiss went with his flight and flew his first sortie with 272 on December 8. In May 1941 he went to 407 Squadron at Thorney Island. On December 28 Middlemiss was wounded by flak off Den Holder. He was admitted to hospital. At some time in 1942 Middlemiss was posted to 279 Squadron operating with Hudsons in the ASR role from Bircham Newton and the first squadron to be equipped with airborne lifeboats. He remained with the squadron until spring 1944. He was then involved in experiments to find out if V1 flying bombs could be tracked and intercepted over the Channel. This task ceased as the launch sites were being overrun by the Allied advance in Europe and Middlemiss went to 1510 Blind Approach Training Flight at Squires Gate, as an instructor. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.46), as a Warrant Officer. Gazetted as a Master Signaller on September 1 1947, while still with 1510 Flight, Middlemiss went to Egypt in 1951 and served with the Air Support Flight of Transport Command. He retired from the RAF in 1952 and died in 1992.

PO 1.3.41

WLODZIMIERZ MIKSA P 0286

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

PO

Pilot

Polish

151 and 303 Squadrons

Born at Lodz on September 27 1915, Miksa joined the PAF in 1936. In the September 1939 fighting in Poland he was serving with 114 Eskadra., He destroyed a Bf 110 and shared another. on the 7th and shared a Hs 126 and damaged a He 111 on the 8th. Miksa escaped to France and served as an instructor with the Polish Fighter Training Unit at Lyon-Bron. On June 1 1940 he was posted to the Polish section of Groupe de Chasse 111/10, with Bloch MB 152s. Miksa arrived in England on July 16 1940 and he went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool., to await a posting. He went to the RAF Polish Depot on August 26 and was posted from there to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum, for the 7th Polish Pilots’ Course from September 23 to October 1, for testing and grading. Miksa arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on October 2, where he converted to Hurricanes, and then joined 151 Squadron at Digby on the 18th but on the 21st he moved to 303 Squadron at Leconfield. He was slightly injured on active service on October 29. He moved to 315 Squadron at Acklington, at its formation, on January 21 1941. Miksa destroyed a Bf 109, probably destroyed another and damaged a third on October 21 1941. He was awarded the KW (20.1.42) and appointed a Flight Commander on June 20 1942. Miksa was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on April 5 1943 and was awarded a Bar to the KW (12.5.43) and a second Bar (7.7.43). After going to 61 OTU, Rednal on October 4 1943, he joined 302 Squadron at Northolt on the 18th. Miksa was given command of 317 Squadron, also at Northolt, on January 1 1944. He was posted away on August 25, for liaison duties at HQ 12 Group. Awarded the VM (5th Class) (7.9.44), Miksa went to HQ Fighter Command on Ops duty on May 15 1945. He was awarded the DFC (26.5.45). He was released from the PAF in February 1946 and awarded a third Bar to the KW (31.10.47). Miksa settled in England, married an English lady and changed his name to PilkingtonMiksa. He died on August 20 1999.

WILLIAM ARTHUR MIDDLETON 39928

303 Squadron

He joined 303 Squadron at Northolt on August 21 1940 from the Polish Wing of 3 S of TT. He was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down from September 2 . On the 6th he crashed in Master N 7956 but was unhurt. After converting to Hurricanes, he rejoined 303 Squadron on September 27. He landed at a decoy airfield at Borstal, Kent after a combat with Bf 109s on October 7, in Hurricane P 3089. He crashed and caught fire taking off again, unhurt. On April 16 1941 303 and 601 Squadrons escorted six Blenheims of 21 Squadron, detailed to bomb the fighter airfield at Berck-sur-Mer. As they turned for home, 303 was jumped by Bf 109s over the Channel. Mierzwa and another pilot, who were acting as weavers, were shot down. He was killed when he crashed and burned out on the shore at Dungeness, in Spitfire P 7819. He is buried in Northwood Cemetery. An unknown person erected a wooden memorial cross at the crash site. Mierzwa was awarded the KW (1.2.41) and Bar (31.10.47).

WILLIAM MIDDLEMISS Sgt

Pilot Polish

Born in Warsaw on March 14 1918, Mierzwa was in the PAF before the war and flew against the Luftwaffe in September 1939.

PO 9.1.43

970668

PO

266 Squadron

Middleton was born in Auckland on December 31 1918 and he was educated at Auckland Grammar School. He was accepted for a short service commission in the RNZAF in June 1939 but the scheme lapsed on September 3. Middleton volunteered for flying duties and was on the first course at the Ground Training School at Weraroa on October 26 1939. He was commissioned on that day. In late November Middleton was posted to 2 EFTS, New Plymouth and on January 15 1940 he moved on to 2 FTS, Woodbourne. He qualified for his flying badge on April 23, completed the course and left for the UK in the RMS Rangitata on June 7 1940. Middleton arrived in the UK on July 20 and went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge next day, to await a posting. This came on August 4 and he was sent to 7 OTU, Hawarden, where he converted to Spitfires and then joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on August 26.

PO 1.3.41 FO 1.3.42 FL 1.3.43

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

REGINALD ALAN MILBURN 742926

Sgt Pilot

British

Collyweston in June 1940. He flew an operational sortie on July 28, a night patrol. Commissioned in November 1942, Miles stayed on in the RAF until May 1950, on an extended commission and retired as a Flight Lieutenant.

601 and 87 Squadrons

Milburn joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 11 1936, as a pupil pilot. He completed his training but then resigned his commission on December 1 1937.

PO 25.11.42 FO 25.5.43 FL 25.11.44 FL (RAFVR) 25.5.46

MILES JOHN MILEY 33345

He rejoined the RAFVR in January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on or about September 25 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, Milburn joined 601 Squadron at Exeter on October 10. He made his first flight on the 11th, local flying. He moved to 87 Squadron at Church Fenton on the 31st. Milburn was posted to the Middle East on January 30 1941 and joined 274 Squadron in the Western Desert on April 6 1941. No further service details traced. Milburn died on December 19 1983.

Pilot

British

54 and 66 Squadrons

Mildren joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 31 1939. He experienced some delay in his training and did not get to 7 OTU, Hawarden until September 1 1940. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on September 16. He moved to 66 Squadron at Gravesend on October 14. Mildren was killed on a sweep over France on February 11 1941, still serving with 66 Squadron. He is buried in Boulogne Eastern Cemetery. APO 23.10.39 PO 31.8.40

DENYS EDGAR MILEHAM 77678 PO

Pilot

British

British

25 Squadron

He entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1936, as a Flight Cadet. On graduation, on July 29 1938, he was granted a Permanent Commission and he joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge. Miley took part in an attack on the Luftwaffe seaplane base at Borkum on November 28 1939. Twelve Blenheims, six from 25 Squadron and six from 601 Squadron, took off from Bircham Newton. All aircraft returned and landed safely at Debden. Three He 115s were destroyed and another three damaged. Miley was still with the squadron in early July 1940. He was attached twice to RAF Northolt, on August 15 and again on the 31st, for trials with the Air Fighting Development Unit. In the early evening of September 15 1940 Miley was flying in Beaufighter R 2067, from North Weald, with Flying Officer B G Hooper as pilot. They collided with a Blenheim of 25 Squadron, flown by Flying Officer H M S Lambert as pilot and LAC J P Wyatt as crew. The two aircraft crashed near Biggin Hill aerodrome at 6.20 pm and Miley, Lambert and Wyatt were killed. It has never been established whether the crash was an accident or the result of enemy action. On that day Feldwebel Neuhoff of JG 53 claimed a Blenheim destroyed but none was reported lost by enemy action on the 15th. It is possible that he mistook the Beaufighter for a Blenheim, if indeed he did shoot it down. Miley was 22. He is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, North Weald Bassett, Essex.

PETER RAYMOND MILDREN PO

Pilot

Miley was the elder son of Group Captain A J Miley, OBE, Air Attaché in Buenos Aires in September 1940. He was born in 1918 and educated at Sherborne School.

APO 6.7.36 PO 11.5.37

42864

FO

610 and 41 Squadrons PO 30.7.38 FO 30.1.40 Mileham, from Boxmoor, Hertfordshire, joined the RAFVR about July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741902).

WILLIAM BRUCE MacDOUGAL MILLAR C 892

Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training, was commissioned on February 1 1940 and then went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum. By May 17 1940 Mileham was with 26 Squadron at Authie in France, flying Lysanders on army co-operation duties. Mileham later volunteered for Fighter Command and was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 21. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 610 Squadron at Acklington on September 3 1940. He moved to 41 Squadron at Hornchurch on the 29th and destroyed a Bf 109 on October 5 another on November 17. He was killed on April 15 1942 as a Flight Lieutenant with 234 Squadron, aged 22. Mileham is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 66.

Wop/AG

British

Canadian

1 (RCAF) Squadron

Millar converted to Hurricanes. His attachment ceased and he joined No 1 (RCAF) Squadron at Northolt on August 31 1940. Shot down by enemy fighters at Loxwood, Sussex on September 9, in Hurricane P 3081, Millar baled out, wounded and burned. The aircraft crashed in the vicinity of Merry Hills and Songhurst Farm. Millar was posted to 112 (RCAF) Squadron, a holding unit, on the 9th, as non-effective sick. He was in hospital at Bramshott, Surrey. The last mention of him in an ORB states ‘due to go back to Canada shortly’. He retired from the RCAF on July 10 1964, as a Wing Commander and he died on January 8 1969.

ERNEST EDWIN MILES Sgt

Pilot

Millar was born at Penticton, British Columbia on December 14 1914. He joined the RCAF on November 7 1938. He joined 110 (RCAF) Squadron on May 30 1940. He was detached from 110 to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 19.

PO 1.2.40 FO 1.2.41

747829

FO

JOCELYN GEORGE POWER MILLARD

236 Squadron

83999 Miles joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on September 26 1940.

PO

Pilot

British

1 and 242 Squadrons

Millard was born on February 23 1915. His father was killed on August 15 1916 when submarine E4 sank with all hands after a collision with E41 during exercises off Harwich. J G P Millard was at St Edmund’s College near Ware, Hertfordshire from 1928 to 1931. He joined the RAFVR in August 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740731), whilst working for the de Havilland Aircraft Co.

He flew six operational sorties in October, the first one on the 1st. No further service details traced.

STANLEY FREDERICK MILES 53720

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

He carried out his week-end flying training at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield. When he was called up on September 1 1939, he had completed his Service Flying Training course and had a total of 275 flying hours. In October Millard was posted to 12 EFTS, Prestwick for a flying instructor’s course. He instructed at 9 EFTS, Ansty from April 1940, later moving to 12 FTS, Grantham. On August 24 he was commissioned and posted to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum. Millard volunteered for Fighter Command and he arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on

23 Squadron

Miles joined the RAF as a direct-entry Airman u/t Observer (581469) about June 1939. Called up on September 1, he went to 7 B&GS on November 25 for No 2 Air Observer Course. He failed his navigation training and remustered from u/t Observer to u/t Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. On December 30 1939 Miles transferred to No 4 Air Gunner Course, also at 7 B&GS, which he completed successfully. With all training completed, he was with 23 Squadron at

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

Lieutenant with 13 Squadron, serving as Gunnery Leader in Blenheims at Oulmene, Algeria. He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Squadron Leader.

September 4 1940, converted to Hurricanes and joined No 1 Squadron at Wittering on the 21st. Millard moved to 242 Squadron at Coltishall on October 17 and then to 615 Squadron at Northolt on November 3. He probably destroyed a BF 109 on a sweep over France on February 24 1941. In early March 1941 he was posted away to CFS, Upavon, for an instructors’ course, and in mid-April joined the staff at RAF College FTS, Cranwell. He left for Canada in midJuly and began instructing at 35 SFTS there in September 1941. Millard was there until mid-May 1944, serving as Flying Instructor, Flight Commander, Examining Officer and Squadron Commander. He returned to the UK and went to Technical Training Command, for flying and administrative duties. Millard was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Squadron Leader. He died on May 10 2010.

PO 21.3.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 21.3.44

ROBERT MILLER 36143

Radar Operator

British

British

616 and 3 Squadrons

Miller was posted to 72 Squadron at Church Fenton on January 14 1939. He was attached to HQ 12 Group on February 22, pending his taking over duties of Personal Assistant to the AOC. The attachment to 12 Group became a posting there on March 1 1939. He was posted from 23 Squadron to 616 Squadron on September 10 1939. He damaged two Ju 88s over Dunkirk on June 1 1940. The last mention of him in 616’s ORB was on July 1 1940, when Miller, Flying Officer J S Bell and Pilot Officer J Brewster, shared a He 111. Miller moved to 3 Squadron at Wick in late July and flew his first sortie with the squadron on August 4 1940, a convoy escort. He took command of 122 Squadron at Catterick in August 1941 and was killed on April 24 1942. Miller is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 65.

ALFRED JOHN MILLER AC 2

Pilot

Enlisted in Class ‘F’ of the RAF Reserve on August 24 1936 (700665). Miller joined the RAF on a direct-entry Permanent Commission, as a University Entrant from Cambridge, on June 4 1938.

PO 24.8.40 FO 18.8.41 FL 18.8.42

1003598

FL

23 Squadron

Miller joined the RAFVR in June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. He later volunteered for aircrew duties and was sent on a short radar course, after which he joined 23 Squadron at Middle Wallop in early September 1940, as a radar operator.

PO 4.6.38 FO 4.6.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.9.41 No further service details traced.

ROGERS FREEMAN GARLAND MILLER ANTHONY GARFORTH MILLER 90088

SL

Pilot

British

42419

PO

Pilot

British

609 Squadron

FIU and 17 Squadron Miller, of Radford Semele, Warwickshire, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 12 1939.

Born in Calcutta in 1912, Miller joined 600 Squadron, AAF in June 1937. During the Munich crisis in September 1938, the squadron was embodied in the RAF. It proceeded to its War Station at Kenley but was stood down after two weeks.

He completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on April 5 1940. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 604 Squadron at Northolt on May 8 1940. He moved to 600 Squadron at Manston on May 11 and to 609 Squadron at Northolt on June 11. Miller probably destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged a Do 17 on July 13, he damaged a Bf 110 on August 12, destroyed a Ju 87 and probably destroyed another on August 13, probably destroyed a Do 17 on September 24 and shared a He 111 and damaged a Ju 88 on the 25th. Miller was killed on September 27 1940, when he collided with a Bf 110 over Chesilbourne, near Kingscombe. His Spitfire, X 4107, exploded and the main wreckage fell E of Doles Ash. Miller was 20 years old. His brother, Pilot Officer J G Miller, a pilot serving with 149 Squadron, was killed in a landing accident on August 12 1940, aged 23. Both brothers are buried in St Nicholas’s churchyard, Radford Semele, Warwickshire.

Miller was on attachment from 600 to 25 Squadron at Hawkinge from June 11 to 24 1939. On August 24 1939 he was called to full-time service and became a Flight Commander with 600. On March 25 1940 he was attached to HQ 11 Group, Uxbridge for Operations Room duties. He joined the Fighter Interception Unit at Tangmere at its formation in April. On August 18 Miller, flying a Hurricane, damaged a Ju 87. On August 29 he took command of 17 Squadron at Tangmere. Following an attack by a Bf 110, he made a forced-landing at North Weald on September 3, unhurt. On September 5 he shared in the probable destruction of a He 111, on November 11 he probably destroyed two Ju 87s and on the 13th he damaged a Do 17. Miller commanded 17 Squadron until July 1941, when he was posted to Leconfield, to form and command 134 Squadron. The squadron embarked on HMS Argus on August 12 for Russia and flew off on September 6 to the airfield at Vaenga, near Murmansk. It was mainly involved in bomberescort flights. In October 134 began converting Russian pilots to the Hurricanes and on the 28th all aircraft and equipment was handed over to the Russians and in November the squadron personnel returned to the UK. Miller was awarded the DFC (3.3.42) and the Order of Lenin (31.3.42). In February 1942 he was attached to FIU, Ford for a night-fighter refresher course and in April he was posted to command 600 Squadron at Predannack, as a Wing Commander. In September Miller was appointed OC Training Wing at 54 OTU, remaining there until June 1943, when he became Station Commander RAF High Ercall. In July he took command at RAF Honiley. Miller was posted to HQ 9 Group in January 1944 for staff duties. He was made Station Commander at Middle Wallop in July, went to HQ Fighter Command in March 1945, took up staff duties at Air Ministry in October and was released from the RAF in August 1946 as a Group Captain. Miller died in 1992.

APO 5.8.39 PO 6.4.40

THOMAS HENRY MILLER 624065

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

25 Squadron

Miller, of East Grinstead, Sussex, joined the RAF, as an Aircrafthand, in October 1938. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and after completing his training, he was with 25 Squadron at North Weald in early May 1940. He was last mentioned in 25’s ORB on October 27 1940. He was killed on December 17 1942, as a Flight Sergeant. At the time of his death he was attached to an OTU at RAF St Eval. The unit he was serving with is not known. Miller was 22. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 75.

GEORGE STANLEY MILLIGAN 87030

PO (AAF) 18.7.35 FO (AAF) 18.1.37 FL 24.8.39 SL 1.9.40 WC 1.3.42

PO

Pilot

British

263 Squadron

Milligan enlisted in the RAFVR in September 1938. Called to full-time service on September 1 1939, he was posted from 11 Group Pool to 263 Squadron at Filton on October 23, with the rank of Sergeant.

ARTHUR CHARLES MILLER 119169

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

604 Squadron

He served on both of 263 Squadron’s expeditions to Norway but did not return from the second in the carrier HMS Glorious. Milligan was commissioned on October 29 1940. There is no documentary evidence that he is entitled to the Battle of Britain clasp but he could be eligible and is included in this work until proved otherwise. No further service details traced.

Miller was born in 1909. He joined the RAFVR about February 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (743066). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and was with 604 Squadron at Northolt by February 29 1940.

PO 29.10.40

Commissioned in March 1942, Miller was awarded the DFC (26.2.43), as an Acting Flight

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WILLIAM HENRY MILLINGTON 42720

PO

Pilot

Australian

13, destroyed a Ju 87 on the 18th and destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another on September 6. He was posted to 249 Squadron at North Weald on the 13th and shared a Ju 88 on the 27th. Commissioned in April 1941, Mills went with the squadron to Malta in May. It flew off Ark Royal on the 21st, in two groups. On August 5 Mills joined the Malta Night Fighter Unit, then being formed at Ta Kali. On December 2 the Unit became 1435 (Night Fighter) Flight. Mills was awarded the DFC (7.4.44), as a Flight Lieutenant with 73 Squadron. He was released from the RAF on August 30 1947 as a Squadron Leader. He worked for Morris Motors and then ran a petrol station at Kennington, Oxford, which he had built himself. In 1963 he went to live in Australia. He died on

79 and 249 Squadrons

Millington was born in England on August 11 1917, the son of a commercial traveller. Mr Millington suffered from poor health and the family went from Newcastle-upon-Tyne to Australia in 1926. They settled at Edwardstown, South Australia. Millington attended Westborne Park Primary School and then Edwardstown Primary School, moving on to Adelaide Technical High School. Millington worked for Gilbert Engineering and G & R Wills & Co. He was a keen scout and joined the Royal Australian Naval Reserve in 1935, serving in the signals branch. He was not successful in an application to for a cadetship in the RAAF, but joined the Royal Aero Club of South Australia to learn to fly prior to seeking to join the RAF. However, he could not afford to continue the flying lessons. He passed paymaster exams and was offered a commission in the naval reserve, but intent on going to England, declined it He returned to England, as a candidate for an RAF short service commission in June 1939. He was accepted and he began his ab initio course on July 24 1939, as a pupil pilot at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley. He moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 15 Course, which ran from October 9 1939 to April 10 1940. After completing his flying training, Millington arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 1, converted to Hurricanes and joined 79 Squadron at Biggin Hill on the 18th. Millington claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on July 9, two He 111s destroyed and another damaged on August 15, a He 111 destroyed, another probably destroyed and a Bf 110 damaged on the 30th and three Bf 109s destroyed and a Do 17 damaged on the 31st. On this day his Hurricane, P 3050, was set alight in combat with Bf 109s over Romney. Millington crash-landed on Conghurst Farm, Hawkhurst, wounded in the left thigh and burned. He was later admitted to Croydon Hospital. He could have baled out but chose to steer his aircraft away from a village. He got out just before the petrol tanks exploded. He rejoined 79 on September 18, after sick leave. Millington was posted to 249 Squadron at North Weald on September 19. He claimed a Ju 88 destroyed and another shared on the 27th, probably destroyed Bf 109s on October 7 and 25, shared a Ju 88 and damaged a Do 17 on the 28th and probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 29th. He was awarded the DFC (1.10.40). Following an action with enemy fighters over the Channel on October 30, Millington failed to return and was reported ‘Missing’. He was 23 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 9. APO 18.9.39 PO 20.4.40

January 24 2001. PO 24.4.41 FO 24.4.42 FL 24.4.43

JOHN BAILLIE MILLS 629563

PO

Pilot

British

36067

Pilot

British

263 and 87 Squadrons

He joined the RAF in January 1927, as an Aircraft Apprentice (561203) and passed out in December 1929, as a Fitter, Aero Engines. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. Mills was a Sergeant-Pilot when he was granted a Permanent Commission on May 21 1936. He joined 17 Squadron at Kenley on June 3 and moved to the Station Flight at Northolt on February 1 1937. Mills was posted from HQ Fighter Command to join 263 Squadron at its formation at Filton on October 2 1939, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. He was detached to AFDU, Northolt on January 2 1940, for an Air Fighting Course. He rejoined 263 on the 14th. Mills went with the squadron to Norway in April 1940 and on the 25th he destroyed a He 111, shared in the destruction of a second and damaged a third. He was awarded the DFC (10.5.40). In Norway again in May, Mills was wounded and in hospital when 263’s pilots embarked on HMS Glorious on June 6 to return to the UK. They were all lost when the carrier was sunk on the way back by the Scharnhorst, on the 8th. The squadron reformed at Drem and Mills was temporary CO until July 6 1940. Mills was posted away to 87 Squadron at Exeter on August 18. He took command of 87 Squadron on the 24th and was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader. Mills assumed temporary command of RAF Exeter on September 13 1940, when Wing Commander J S Dewar was lost, until October 5, when Wing Commander H S Darley arrived to take command. He was posted away on December 24 1940 to RAF Colerne. Mills later went to the USA, as Assistant Air Attaché, to develop British training facilities. The RAF eventually had six schools there. Mills personally briefed President Roosevelt at the White House on European operations. He did not return to the UK until 1945. Mills retired from the RAF on October 20 1956, as a Wing Commander retaining the rank of Group Captain. Mills died in 1996.

615 and 73 Squadrons

PO 21.5.36 FO 21.11.37 FL 21.11.39 SL 1.12.40 WC 1.6.42 WC 1.10.46

JOHN ARCHIBALD MILNE 42758

JACK PERCIVAL MILLS British

FL

Born on October 20 1909, Mills went to Imperial Service College.

APO 5.8.39 PO 24.3.40

Pilot

23 Squadron

RANDOLPH STUART MILLS

Millist went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 17 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick on September 3. He moved to 73 Squadron at Castle Camps on the 18th. On his first flight with the squadron, he smashed his propeller and damaged his port wing in a heavy landing. Millist went to the Middle East with 73 in November 1940. On February 4 1941 he was shot down in combat with CR 42s over Barce and made a crash-landing ten miles NE of Benina. He evaded capture and after three days met Australian troops. He then hitch-hiked to Derna and rejoined his squadron. On April 5 Millist shot down a Ju 87. Two days later he was killed, circumstances unknown. He was 22 years old and is remembered on the Alamein Memorial, Column 241. Millist was awarded the DFC (4.11.41), with effect from March 15 1941.

Sgt

British

Mills flew his first operational sortie on July 28 and he was still with 23 Squadron in November 1940. He was posted away from the squadron on March 21 1941. No further service details traced.

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 12 1939, as a pupil pilot. After completing his training Millist was with 98 Squadron, a Battle unit, until July 22 1940 when he was posted to 4 Ferry Pilot Pool.

64890

Radar Operator

Mills joined the RAF in December 1938, as an Aircrafthand. It is possible that he volunteered for aircrew duties and after a short radar course, he was posted to 23 Squadron at Collyweston on June 16 1940.

KENNETH MILTON MILLIST 42420

AC 1

PO

Pilot

Canadian

605 Squadron

Milne was born on January 18 1915 in Yorkton, Canada. He went to Victoria Elementary School there and then the Yorkton Collegiate Institute. He obtained his private pilot’s license in 1935 and served in the RCAF as an aero engine fitter.

43 and 249 Squadrons

Mills was born on December 28 1918 and attended King Edward’s School, Witley in Surrey, where he was an all round sportsman. He later worked for F Stephens & Son in Oxford and became a member of a flying club. Mills joined the RAFVR in November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742477). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and after converting to Hurricanes at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge from May 26 1940, he joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere on June 9.

He went to England in June 1939 and joined the RAF on a short service commission. He did his ab intio course on August 8 1939, at 18 E&RFTS, Fair Oaks and then moved on to 3 FTS, South Cerney for No 30 Course, which began on October 23 1939. Milne transferred to No 31 Course, which ended on May 20 1940. Milne arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 21 and after converting to Spitfires, he was posted to 72 Squadron at Acklington on June 9. After flying some convoy patrols, Milne moved to 605 Squadron at Drem on the 11th.

Mills shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 on July 9, he destroyed a Bf 109 on August

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and final, sortie with 12 Squadron, an attack on shipping in Boulogne Harbour at nightfall. On September 4 he was posted to 213 Squadron at Exeter. With no Hurricane experience, Milnes was attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge from September 9 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 32 Squadron at Acklington on the 28th and he joined the squadron on October 2. He moved to 615 Squadron at Northolt on November 11. Milnes was commissioned in July 1941. On September 18, escorting Blenheims to attack a motor vessel at Blankenburghe, Milnes was shot down, baled out and was rescued from the sea. Later in the month he was posted to 258 Squadron at Martlesham Heath. The squadron flew to Debden on October 3, to prepare for overseas. Leaving their Hurricanes behind, the twenty-two pilots went to Abbotsinch on the 30th and two days later sailed in HMS Athene for Gibraltar, with wing-detached Hurricanes on board. After arriving on the 21st, the aircraft were to be unloaded, to be taken by Ark Royal to Malta later. However, the carrier was sunk returning to Gibraltar so other plans were made. The 258 pilots left on Christmas Eve 1941, on the Athene. They berthed at Takoradi on January 1 1942, disembarked and the Athene left, taking their Hurricanes with her. On the 3rd they flew on the ferry route to the Middle East in a DC 3, arrived at Port Sudan, from where they sailed south in the carrier HMS Indomitable on the 9th, with Hurricanes aboard. They flew off on the 28th and later in the morning arrived at Airfield P2 at Palembang, Sumatra. In the afternoon they flew to Seletar airfield, Singapore and flew their first sortie on January 31st. On February 10 1942 the three surviving Hurricanes of 258 were withdrawn from Palembang. Of the fifteen surviving pilots, six were required to remain behind there, to fly with a reformed 605 Squadron. One was nominated, two volunteered and the other three were selected by cutting cards. Milnes was one of the nine who were evacuated from Java to Ceylon in the SS Kota Gede. 258 Squadron was reformed at Ratmalana on March 1 1942. Milnes rejoined it on the 7th. In September 1942 he was posted to 73 Squadron at China Bay, Ceylon. He stayed with it until September 1943, when he was posted to flying instructor duties at Bangalore, India. In December Milnes joined the staff at 224 Group, Chittagong, in the Accidents Branch. He returned to instructor duties in February 1944, this time at Peshawar. Milnes joined 84 Squadron at Quetta in September, operating in Vultee Vengeances. He returned briefly to instructor duties in August 1945 and was repatriated to the UK in October. He retired from the RAF on April 24 1958 as a Squadron Leader and died on December 25 1999.

The squadron moved to Croydon on September 7. Milne claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on the 27th and shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 on October 4. He was shot down on the 22nd by Bf 109s over Croydon and made a crashlanding near Dorking, in Hurricane V 6783. Milne was slightly wounded in the back in the action but fractured his hip on landing and was admitted to hospital. He later married his nurse. In April 1941 Milne went to 52 OTU, Crosby-on-Eden, as an instructor. He was posted to Aden in November 1941 and in early 1942 joined 112 Squadron in the Western Desert. Milne returned to the UK in November 1942, later commanded 10 Group Communications Flight and in 1944 went to Assam as Chief Test Pilot. He was released from the RAF in July 1946 and returned to Canada. Milne died there in February 2007. APO 9.10.39 PO 21.5.40 FO 21.5.41 FL 21.5.42

RICHARD MAXWELL MILNE 40129

FO

Pilot

British

151 Squadron

Born in Edinburgh on July 8 1919, Milne was at Cheltenham College from September 1931 to December 1935. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 12 1937, as a pupil pilot. On September 18 he was posted to 11 FTS, Wittering and with training completed, he joined the staff at 8 Armament Training Station at Evanton on May 7 1938. Milne went to 151 Squadron at North Weald on January 26 1939. He was detached to A & AEE for six days on March 15 1940, for instruction on a Hurricane, fitted with 20 mm cannon. He was then attached to RAF Northolt for a further six days to fly the aircraft. He rejoined 151 Squadron on March 27, with cannon Hurricane, L 1750. In May 1940 the squadron used Vitry, in France, as an advanced landing ground. On the 17th Milne destroyed a Ju 87, on the 18th a Bf 110 and on the 22nd another Ju 87. On July 9 Milne claimed a Bf 109 destroyed, on the 12th shared a Do 17, on the 29th damaged a Bf 110, on August 13 destroyed two Do 17s, on the 15th a Bf 109 and on the 18th a He 111. He was awarded the DFC (30.8.40). In November Milne went to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course, after which he went to 8 E&RFTS at Woodley. He went back to CFS in early 1941, firstly as an instructor and later as a Flight Commander. In mid-1941 Milne joined 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill, as a Flight Commander, and in September he took command of the squadron. On the 27th he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another and on October 13 he claimed three Bf 109s destroyed and damaged another. Milne was awarded a Bar to the DFC (11.11.41). On January 19 1942 he took command of 222 Squadron at North Weald and led it until May, when he was rested from operations. In early January 1943 Milne was appointed Wing Leader at Biggin Hill. On the 20th he destroyed a FW 190 and a Bf 109 and on March 10 destroyed another FW 190. Milne destroyed a FW 190 and was then himself shot down and captured on March 14, leading the Wing on a sweep over France. At some time he was held in Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 931). Freed in May 1945, he was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Wing Commander. Milne died in 2004.

PO 5.7.41 FO 5.7.42 FL 5.7.43 SL 1.8.47 SL 1.7.56

DAVID COOPER MITCHELL 69439

Sgt

Pilot

British

65 Squadron

Mitchell enlisted in the RAFVR in May 1939 (748420). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 3 1940. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 19. At some time he was posted away from 65 Squadron but after being commissioned on June 26 1941, he rejoined 65 Squadron, then at Kirton-in-Lindsey. He damaged a Bf 109 on June 30 and on October 21 1941 he destroyed a Bf 109 but was then shot down himself into the Channel and rescued. Mitchell left 65 Squadron for RAF Debden on February 6 1942, pending an overseas posting. On June 19 1944 Mitchell was killed, serving with 57 OTU, Eshott. He was flying Spitfire I R7065 which collided with Beaufort W6540 over Rayburn Lake, Wingates Moor, Northumberland. The Beaufort landed safely. He was 29 and is buried in Eastwood Cemetery, Glasgow.

APO 5.9.37 PO 12.7.38 FO 12.1.40 FL 12.1.41 SL 1.3.42

PO 26.6.41 FO 26.6.42 FL 26.6.43

AMBROSE HENRY MILNES 101001

Sgt

Pilot

British

213 and 32 Squadron

GEORGE MITCHELL 46210

Born on May 24 1912, Milnes trained as a Sergeant-Pilot with Class ‘F’ of the RAF Reserve from 1935 to 1937 (700189).

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

23 Squadron

Mitchell was born in Mappowder, Dorst on February 18 1917. He joined the RAF on July 30 1935, as an Aircrafthand (522127), for a 7 year engagement. His first posting was to 16 (AC) Squadron on October 18 1935 and he was with it until June 12 1936, when, having remustered to ACH u/t Mate, he went to No 3 School of Technical Training, moving on to No 2 Wing, Henlow on August 18 1936, after he had again remustered, this time for training as a Flight Rigger.

He transferred to the RAFVR in December 1937 (740958), then acted as a flying instructor until the outbreak of war, when he was called up and posted to the Instructor Pool at Brough, Yorkshire. In November 1939 Milnes was sent to CFS, Upavon for an instructor’s course, after which he went on instructional duties to 8 FTS, Montrose. In May 1940 he was posted to 12 OTU, Benson, to convert to Battles. Milnes joined 12 Squadron at Finningley in June. He flew his first operational sortie on the night of July 25/26 1940, to Evere, Belgium, but returned because of bad weather. Milnes volunteered for Fighter Command in August. On the 18th he flew his second,

Mitchell qualified on April 30 1937 and was posted to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum on May 7. He then joined 59 (AC) Squadron, also at Old Sarum, on the 8th. Mitchell was promoted to AC 1 on November 1 1937. He applied for Air Gunner training in June 1938 and was

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was OC ‘B’ Flight in 254 Squadron at Sumburgh. He was posted from 254 Squadron to 25 Squadron at North Weald on September 24 1940, as a supernumerary, and took command of the squadron next day. He was awarded the DFC (22.10.40) and posted away in January 1941. Mitchell reformed 125 Squadron at Colerne on June 16 1941 and commanded it until December. He was instructing at 51 OTU from October 1942 and then with HQ 216 Group from November 1943. From early 1944 Mitchell was with 3 ADU, engaged in air deliveries from the UK to the Middle East. He commanded 40 Staging Post from October 1944 to June 1945. His final appointment was as a Controller at HQ RAF Middle East, from June 1945 to November 1946. He was released from the RAF late in 1946, as a Wing Commander.

sent on a month-long gunnery course at the Armament Training Station, North Coates on July 13. Mitchell was reclassified as a Mate/Flight Rigger/ Air Gunner on August 14 1938. He was posted from 59 Squadron to 23 Squadron at Wittering on January 11 1939 and promoted to LAC on August 1 1939. Mitchell was again reclassified on March 11 1940, this time as a Flight Rigger/Air Gunner and on May 27 he was reclassified as an Air Gunner and promoted to Sergeant. He served with 23 Squadron throughout the Battle of Britain, was promoted to Flight Sergeant on April 1 1941 and commissioned on July 12. He joined 1451 Flight on August 2 1941, on Special Duties. The Flight was later renumbered 116 Squadron. On September 15 1941 Mitchell was flown to his wedding by his regular pilot, Flight Lieutenant Alan Gawith (qv) who acted as best man. On December 26 1942 Mitchell went to No 1 Air Armament School, for a Specialist Officers’ Course, after which he returned to 116 Squadron. He was posted to 277 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on June 11 1943, an air-sea rescue unit. Six days later he joined 515 Squadron at Hunsdon, a Defiant unit involved in radar counter-measures. The squadron was completely equipped with Beaufighters by January 1944 and Mitchell was posted to HQ 25 Group on February 16, from where he went to No 1 Air Gunnery School, as an instructor, later moving to 10 Air Gunnery School on June 28 1944. Mitchell stayed on in the RAF after the war, in the General Duties Branch, employed on administrative duties. He later returned to flying duties, serving with 57, 50 and 44 Squadrons between August 1950 and December 1952. He retired from the RAF on October 3 1953 as a Flight Lieutenant. Mitchell died on December 16 1969.

PO (AAF) 26.7.35 WC 1.1.43

FO (AAF) 26.1.37 FL (AAF) 26.1.39

FL 25.8.39

SL 1.9.40

HERBERT ROBERT MITCHELL 391843

Sgt

Pilot

New Zealander

3 Squadron

Mitchell was born at Havelock, Marlborough on March 13 1917. He worked in the Public Works Department and afterwards as a stonemason in Greymouth.

PO 12.7.41 FO 12.7.42 FL 12.7.43 FL 1.9.45 In late March 1939 Mitchell applied to join the Civil Reserve of Pilots and began training at the West Coast United Aero Club in June. He volunteered for the RNZAF at the outbreak of war and reported to the Ground Training School at Weraroa on December 17 1939. He went to No 1 EFTS, Taieri on January 16 1940 and then to No 1 FTS, Wigram on March 11. After completing his training, Mitchell sailed for the UK on July 12 1940 in the RMS Rangitane and arrived on August 27. He was sent to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on the 28th, to await a posting. This came on September 10 1940, when he was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. After converting to Hurricanes, Mitchell joined 3 Squadron at Turnhouse on September 29. He moved to 615 Squadron at Northolt on November 20, joined 260 Squadron at Skitten on December 1 and after eighteen operational sorties, he went to 41 Squadron at Catterick on May 15 1941. Commissioned in early January 1942, Mitchell was posted to 603 Squadron at Abbotsinch in early April. The pilots of the squadron embarked on the carrier USS Wasp soon afterwards and flew their Spitfires off to Malta on April 20, landing at Luqa. Mitchell shared in destroying two Bf 109s on May 9 and damaged another. On the 12th he took off from Ta Kali on an interception patrol. He failed to return and was seen to crash into the sea. Mitchell was reported ‘Missing ‘and was later presumed to have lost his life at sea. He is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 5, Column 1.

GORDON THOMAS MANNERS MITCHELL 90484

PO

Pilot

British

609 Squadron

Mitchell was born in Ceylon on September 24 1910 He was educated at The Leys School, Cambridge and Queen’s College, Cambridge, where he read Law and Economics. He was a member of the University Air Squadron from 1930 to 1932 and obtained his ‘A’ Licence. In 1933 Mitchell obtained a commercial appointment in Sarawak and remained there for four years. On his return to England he joined the Export Credits Guarantee Department in Bradford. Mitchell was commissioned in 609 Squadron, AAF in November 1938. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939, was posted to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on October 7 and with training completed, he rejoined 609 Squadron, then at Drem, on May 5 1940. On June 1 he shared in the destruction of a Bf 110. Mitchell was shot down in combat over a convoy off Portland on July 11 1940, in Spitfire L 1095, and reported ‘Missing’. His body was washed ashore near Newport, Isle of Wight. Mitchell is buried in All Saints’ churchyard, Letchworth, Hertfordshire. APO (AAF) 10.11.38 PO 24.8.39

HARRY THORNE MITCHELL 41447

PO Pilot

Canadian

87 Squadron PO 5.1.42

Born in Port Hope, Ontario in 1920, Mitchell moved to England with his family and went to King’s College, London.

LANCELOT ROBERT GEORGE MITCHELL 70469

He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 6 1938, as a pupil pilot. With training completed, Mitchell was with 87 Squadron in France in early 1940. On May 10 he claimed two Do 17s destroyed and on the 11th and 12th two Ju 87s destroyed. The squadron was withdrawn to Debden on May 22. He claimed a Bf 110 and a Ju 87 destroyed and a Bf 110 damaged on August 15 and a Bf 109 destroyed on the 25th. On October 24 1940 Mitchell was posted to RAF Exeter from 87, as non-effective sick. In early 1941 he was posted away, to be an instructor, and was awarded the DFC (11.2.41). Mitchell was posted to Canada and served in the Aleutians with an RCAF fighter squadron. He returned to the UK in February 1943, for a second operational tour. Mitchell was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Squadron Leader.

Pilot

British

British

257 Squadron

Mitchell was posted to 611 Squadron at Duxford on September 5 1939. In 1940 he became sick and was transferred to RAF Hospital, Matlock on April 6. He rejoined 611 on May 10, after sick leave. He joined 257 Squadron, when it was reformed at Hendon on May 17 1940. Mitchell was detached to AFDU, Northolt, for an Air Fighting Course, from July 2 to 6. He rejoined 257 on the 7th. He shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on July 19 and was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on August 8. He damaged a Ju 88 on August 13, damaged a Do 17 on the 20th and destroyed a Bf 110 on the 31st.. Mitchell was shot down in an action over the Thames Estuary on September 7, in Hurricane V 7254. He was believed to have crashed into the sea and was reported ‘Missing’. He was 24 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 6.

HENRY MAYNARD MITCHELL SL

Pilot

Mitchell, of Keith, Banffshire became a RAFO pupil pilot on May 31 1937. He was commissioned in Class ‘A’ of the RAFO in August 1937. He relinquished this on being granted an RAF short service commission in July 1938. He had already carried out his flying training at 8 FTS, Montrose and he joined 85 Squadron at Debden on July 27 1938.

APO 14.12.38 PO 6.12.40 FO 6.1.41 FL 6.1.42

90246

FO

25 Squadron

Mitchell was born on April 16 1914. He was educated at Harrow School and Birmingham University. In 1935 he joined 605 Squadron, AAF and in 1936 entered the family firm of Mitchells and Butlers, Brewers.

APO (RAFO) 9.8.37 PO (RAFO) 31.5.38 PO 27.7.38 FO 27.2.40

He was called to full-time service on August 25 1939 and served in Norway in 1940. He

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PHILLIP HENRY GURREY MITCHELL

HARTLAND de MONTARVILLE MOLSON

42252

C 1226

PO

Pilot

British

266 Squadron

FO

Pilot

Canadian

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 1 1939, as a pupil pilot. He went to 8 FTS, Montrose for No 12 Course, from July 10 to December 9 1939.

Born in Montreal on May 29 1907, the son of a wealthy family, with large commercial interests, which included a brewery. Molson first went to Bishop’s College School, Quebec. The famly then settled briefly in England and Molson was sent to Charterhouse. After return to Canada, he went back to Bishop’s College School for a year and was then sent to the Royal Military College at Kingston, Ontario. Molson went to Paris in the late 1920s and became an unpaid apprentice at the Banque Adam in Paris, to learn French. After he returned to Canada Molson became an accountant and learned to fly. A fellow-pupil was ‘Billy’ Bishop, fighter ace of the 1914-18 War, who was retraining on modern aircraft. Molson and Bishop started a charter flying business but he later entered the family brewery business and gave up the charter business. Molson served in the Canadian Militia from 1928 to 1933, in the 27th Field Battery. He joined the RCAF in 1939 and was with No 1 (RCAF) Squadron when it arrived in the UK on June 20 1940. He was attached to RAF Uxbridge from July 10 to 15 for a short R/T procedure course. He damaged a Do 17 on August 26, damaged two Bf 110s on September 4 and claimed a He 111 destroyed on September 11. Molson was shot down during combat with enemy fighters over Canterbury on October 5, baled out, wounded, and was admitted to Chartham Hospital. His Hurricane, P 3873, crashed at Deering Farm, Smarden. It was his last operational flight. He was posted to 112 (RCAF) Squadron, a holding unit, on October 5, as non-effective sick. On November 7 1940 Molson was notified of an impending posting back to Canada. This came in early 1941. After returning, he went on a speaking tour of Canada and America. He commanded 118 (Auxiliary) Squadron at Dartmouth, Nova Scotia from July 23 1941 to June 14 1942, operating Kittyhawks in defence of Canada’s East coast. From June 15 to September 6 1942 Molson commanded 126 (RCAF) Squadron on similar duties, with Hurricanes. He later became RCAF Director of Personnel and Honorary ADC to the GovernorGeneral, the Earl of Athlone. In 1945 Molson retired from the RCAF, as a Group Captain. He was made an OBE (1.1.46). Very prominent in Canadian business circles, he was appointed a Senator, Dominion of Canada in July 1955. Molson died in September 2002.

With training completed, Mitchell joined 266 Squadron at Sutton Bridge on December 10. He flew operational sorties with 266 Squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. On August 12 1940 Mitchell damaged a Ju 88. He was released from the RAF in 1948 as a Flight Lieutenant. APO 24.6.39 PO 9.12.39 FL (RAFO) 1.9.45

FO 9.12.40

FL 9.3.42

RICHARD RONALD MITCHELL 45093

Sgt

Pilot

British

1 (RCAF) Squadron

229 Squadron

Born at Perranporth, Cornwall on April 24 1914, Mitchell joined the RAF on September 9 1930, as an Aircraft Apprentice at Halton (565000). He passed out in September 1933, as a Metal Rigger, and was posted to 10 Squadron at Boscombe Down. Whilst with the squadron, Mitchell became an air gunner, firstly on Virginias and then Heyfords. In 1936 he served with 31 (Army Co-operation) Squadron on the North-West Frontier, as a Metal Rigger and as an air gunner in Wapitis. Mitchell applied for pilot training and in late 1938 he returned to the UK and was posted to 2 E&RFTS, Filton, for an ab initio course. He chose to go on twin-engine aircraft and continued his training at 11 FTS, Shawbury, on Oxfords. Mitchell was promoted to Corporal and then to Sergeant in October 1939, when he joined 229 Squadron, then reforming at Digby with Blenheims. The squadron re-equipped with Hurricanes in February 1940. It took part in operations over France and Dunkirk in May/June. Commissioned in November 1940, Mitchell went with the 229 pilots to the Middle East in May 1941. They embarked on HMS Furious on the 10th and arrived in Gibraltar during the night of the 18/19th. There was a delay whilst the Navy dealt with the Bismarck and it was not until June 6 that 229 flew off to Malta. After refuelling, they flew on to Mersa Matruh the next day and began operations in the Western Desert, attached to 73 and 274 Squadrons. Mitchell destroyed a Ju 87 on June 17 1941. The ground crews arrived in late August and 229 began operating as a unit on September 1. He was made a Flight Commander. In March 1942 he was posted to 71 OTU, Khartoum, as a Flight Commander. He was given command of 250 Squadron in January 1943 but fell sick and was sent to hospital in Cairo. He was appointed Chief Test Pilot at 107 MU, Kasfereet in April. He was posted to 80 Squadron at Idku in June 1943, to command a special flight of stripped Sptitfire IXs, to combat high-flying enemy reconnaissance aircraft. In September 1943 Mitchell took command of 33 Squadron at Bersis. He led the squadron back to the UK in April 1944 and it took part in operations over France, before and after D Day. He was posted away in August, awarded the DFC (19.9.44) and given a ‘P’ staff job at HQ 12 Group, becoming SPSO in 1945. Mitchell was made an MBE (1.1.46) and retired from the RAF on April 24 1961 as a Wing Commander. He died in 1994.

DENIS AUBREY MONK 142560

Sgt

Observer

British

236 Squadron

Monk joined the RAFVR about August 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (759189). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 236 Squadron at St Eval in early September 1940. He flew his first operational sortie on September 19. Monk’s flight was posted to RAF Aldergrove on November 19 1940. There it joined up with a flight from 235 Squadron, to reform 272 Squadron on the 21st. Monk flew his first sortie with 272 on November 24. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in February 1943, Monk was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant.

PO 29.11.40 FO 29.11.41 FL 29.11.42 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.1.55 PO 9.2.43 FO 9.8.43 FL 9.2.45

GEORGE EDWARD MOBERLY 90332

FO

Pilot

British

ERNEST WILLIAM JOHN MONK

616 Squadron

44403 Moberly was born in Bombay on December 23 1914. He was educated at Ampleforth School, Yorkshire and learned to fly at Ipswich in 1937.

PO

Pilot

British

25 Squadron

Monk, of Borstal, Kent, was born in 1914. He joined the RAF in January 1930, as an Aircraft Apprentice (564342) and passed out in December 1932. He later applied for pilot training and was selected.

He joined 609 Squadron, AAF in the summer of 1938 but transferred to 616 Squadron when the Earl of Lincoln began to form it on November 1 1938. He was one of the first two officers to join. Called to full-time service on August 24 1939, Moberly was in action over Dunkirk. On May 28 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and probably another and on June 1 he destroyed a Ju 88. Moberly shared a Do 17 on July 3, destroyed a Ju 88 on August 15 and a Bf 109 on the 25th. He was shot down and killed in combat off Dover on August 26 1940. His Spitfire, N 3275, crashed into the Channel. Moberly’s body was recovered and he is buried in St Mary’s churchyard, Caterham-onthe-Hill, Surrey.

Monk was serving with 25 Squadron in August 1939, as a Flight Sergeant. He was commissioned in August 1940. Monk was killed on November 21, when he crashed into the sea shortly after taking off from Tangmere, in Beaufighter R 2068. His gunner, Sergeant E Powell, was also lost. Monk was 26. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 9. PO 12.8.40

GEORGE WROUGHTON MONTAGU 26241

SL

Pilot

British

236 Squadron

Montagu was educated at King’s School, Bruton, Somerset. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1930, as a Flight Cadet. After he had graduated on December 18 1931, with a Permanent Commission, he joined 40 Squadron at Abingdon.

PO (AAF) 19.7.38 PO 24.8.39 FO 19.1.40

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On September 7 1933 Montagu was posted to 822 Squadron, on HMS Furious. He joined the staff at 10 FTS, Ternhill on November 9 1936, went to 2 AACU at Lee-on-Solent on June 13 1938 and joined ‘Z’ Flight, No 1 AACU at Henlow on March 8 1939, for administrative duties. Montagu was posted to HQ 22 Group on May 22 1939. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 10 1940, for a refresher course. He took command of 236 Squadron at St Eval on the 15th. He was detached to RAF Farnborough on the 21st for a 3-day course on High Altitude Flying. He failed to return from a reconnaissance sortie over Brest on December 21 1940 and he and his crew of two were reported ‘Missing’. Montagu is buried in Bayeux War Cemetery, France.

bone, when he slipped whilst climbing into a Spitfire. He was commissioned in June 1940. On August 16 Moody claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and on the 18th a Ju 87. The next day his aircraft was set alight by return fire from a Ju 88 engaged off Bognor. Moody baled out, with burned hands, and landed outside Arundel. The Spitfire, P 9423, crashed and burned out on Colworth Farm, Toad Hall, North Bersted. Moody probably destroyed a Bf 109 on August 31 and he claimed a Do 17 destroyed and probably a second on September 4. He failed to return from combat over the Biggin Hill area on the 7th and was reported ‘Missing’. Moody was 30 years old. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 9.

PO 19.12.31 FO 11.7.33 FL 11.7.36 SL 1.4.39

CECIL ROBERT MONTGOMERY 42421

PO

Pilot

British

615 Squadron

PO 6.6.40

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 12 1939, as a pupil pilot at 22 E&RFTS, Cambridge.

ARTHUR ROBERT MOORE 102100

HERBERT FRANCIS MONTGOMERY Pilot

British

British

3 and 615 Squadrons

Moore arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 3 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 3 Squadron at Wick on August 19. He flew his first operational sortie on September 4 and his last with 3 Squadron on September 19. He was posted to 615 Squadron at Northolt on October 10. He flew seven sorties with 615 between October 17 and November 2. Moore was posted to CFS, Upavon on December 28 1940, for an instructor’s course. He was commissioned in July 1941. In early June 1944 Moore was a Flight Commander with 3 Squadron. On the 8th he shot down a Bf 109 N of Rouen. Between June 18 and August 10 1944 he destroyed twenty V 1 flying bombs and shared another. He was awarded the DFC (21.7.44). Moore was posted to 56 Squadron at Newchurch in late August 1944. The squadron moved to B 60, Grimbergen, Belgium on September 28. He shared in the probable destruction of a FW 190 on September 29, destroyed a Me 210 on November 28 and destroyed two Bf 109s on December 17. Moore was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Squadron Leader. He joined the RAFVR in 1950. He died in 1989.

APO 5.8.39 PO 24.2.40

Sgt

Pilot

Moore joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748130). Called up on September 1, he continued his elementary flying training at 7 EFTS, Desford and went on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 19 Course, which ran from April 11 to July 24 1940.

Montgomery moved on to 2 FTS, Brize Norton for No 40 Course, which ran from August 21 1939 to February 17 1940. With his training completed, he arrived at 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on February 24 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, Montgomery was posted to 615 Squadron in France on May 14. He was reported ‘Missing’ after a combat over the Channel off Dover on August 14. His Hurricane, P 3160, crashed into the sea. Montgomery was 26. His body was recovered and he is buried in Oye-Plage Communal Cemetery, France.

741305

Sgt

43 Squadron

Montgomery joined the RAFVR in February 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 11 FTS, Shawbury on No 18 Course, from January 31 to June 29 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 6 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 43 Squadron at Northolt on August 3. He failed to return from an interception of a He 111 forty miles S of Beachy Head on August 14. His Hurricane, L 1739, crashed into the sea. Montgomery was 26. His body was recovered and he is buried in Senneville-sur-Fécamp churchyard, France.

PO 18.7.41 FO 18.7.42 FL 18.7.43 FO (RAFVR ) 11.3.50

PETER JOHN MOORE DENNIS GEORGE MOODY 118929

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

112401

Sgt

PO 20.3.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 20.3.44

HENRY WOLLASTON MOODY Pilot

British

245 and 253 Squadron

Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 16 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 11 1940. With training completed, he was posted to second-line flying duties and did this until posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 2 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, Moore reported to 615 Squadron at Northolt on September 27 but this was an error and he was flown to 245 Squadron at Aldergrove next day. On October 12 Moore flew his first sortie with 245 and his last one with it two days later, being then posted to 253 Squadron at Kenley, which he joined on October 18. Moore flew his first operational sortie there on the 20th. He made a crash-landing at Newbarn Farm, Southfleet on the 30th, in Hurricane V 7301, after a combat with Bf 109s. He was injured and was admitted to Kenley Station Sick Quarters, with conjunctive haemorrage and contusion of the orbits. He resumed flying with 253 on December 8. Commissioned in November 1941, Moore was killed on June 3 1942, as a Pilot Officer with 616 Squadron, aged 22. He is buried in Etaples Military Cemetery, France.

Moody later retrained as a Radar Operator. In the early hours of July 5 1941 he was flying with Flight Lieutenant H P F Patten, in a Beaufighter of 604. They intercepted and shot down a He 111, which crashed near Frome, Somerset. Commissioned in March 1942, Moody was with 96 Squadron at West Malling in January 1944. Early on the 29th, Moody was flying with Flying Officer S A Hibbert. They attacked and damaged a Ju 88, which did get back to France but crashed in the St Omer area. Moody was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant.

PO

Australian

Moore, of Melbourne, Australia carried out some flying training with the Oxford University Air Squadron. He joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754288).

Moody joined 604 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand (804294). Called to full-time service on August 24 1939, he later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner, completed his training and was with 604 by June 12 1940, as a Sergeant.

81046

Pilot

604 Squadron

602 Squadron

Moody joined the RAFVR about June 1937, as an Aiman u/t Pilot (740364). He was probably the Sergeant Moody, who was attached to 151 Squadron at North Weald on March 6 1939 for six months of continuous training with the RAF. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and had joined 602 Squadron at Drem by February 3 1940, as a Sergeant. Later in the month he broke a collar

PO 8.11.41

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WILLIAM ROY MOORE 77947

PO

Air Gunner

British

on Prome and other targets. On impulse, he decided to fly with 615 Squadron on the sortie, taking the aircraft of a Flight Sergeant. In the attack More’s Hurricane was hit by ground fire and crashed on the opposite side of the river from Prome itself. He was seen to be standing by his aircraft and was later reported captured by the Japanese. After making a nuisance of himself to his captors, More was sent by sea to Japan in 1944. His ship, the SS Rakuyo Maru, was torpedoed and sunk by an Allied submarine. More is believed to have lost his life on September 12 1944. He is remembered on the Singapore Memorial, Column 431.

264 Squadron

Moore volunteered for aircrew duties and joined the RAF in March 1940, with a commission as a direct-entry Air Gunner. With training completed, he arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 18, for training on Defiants. He joined 264 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on July 9 1940. He served with the squadron until May 1941. He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. Moore died in 1984.

PO 26.7.30 FO 26.1.32 FL 26.1.36 SL 1.10.38 WC 1.12.40

ROGER EDWARD GUY MOREWOOD 37978

FL

Pilot

British

248 Squadron

APO 9.3.40 PO 15.6.40 FO 15.6.41 FL 15.6.42 Morewood was born in Worthing on March 7 1916. He was educated at The Grange Preparatory School and Abingdon School and then the Edinburgh College of Art.

WILLIAM STOREY MOORE 40007

FO

Pilot

Irish

On September 30 1935 Morewood joined the RAF as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot in Class ‘F’ of the RAF Reserve (700318). He was at 4 E&RFTS, Brough from September 30 to November 24. He was posted to 7 E&RFTS, Desford on January 20 1936 for further training and left there on August 4 for No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, where he became an Acting Pilot Officer, with a short service commission. On August 22 1936 Morewood was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham and with training completed, he joined 56 Squadron, at North Weald on April 24 1937. He left the squadron on October 30 1939, to help re-form 248 Squadron at Hendon, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. He was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on November 13 1939. Morewood was detached from 248 to AFDU, Northolt on January 3 1940, for a 3-day course on Air Fighting. He was detached again, this time to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton briefly, from May 11 1940. Morewood served with 248 until early July 1942. On the 29th he went to 9 OTU, Aldergrove. After a week he was sent to 3 FIS, Hullavington, for an instructor’s course, after which he returned to 9 OTU. On May 17 1944 Morewood was appointed Wing Commander Flying at Bircham Newton. He moved to Langham on August 12, in the same capacity. On October 23 Morewood went to HQ Transport Command, was made OC Flying at Castel Benito, Libya on November 29 and in early March 1945 he took command of 65 Staging Post at Pommigliano. After a six month period of sickness and sick leave from midJuly 1945 until the end of January 1946, he became Station Commander at RAF Dalcross. He went to HQ 64 Group, Norton in May 1946, as SASO, and was released from the RAF in July 1947 as a Wing Commander. During the war years he received two Mentions in Despatches. Morewood rejoined the RAF in November 1951 and after a refresher course at South Cerney and instruction at CFS, Little Rissington, he was posted to 8 AFTS, Dalcross on April 28 1952. He instructed at the Edinburgh University Air Squadron from October 21 1953 to August 22 1955 and then at Glasgow University Air Squadron until September 1957, when he retired as a Wing Commander. In civilian life Morewood lived in the Aberdeen and Carlisle areas, worked in the boarding kennels run by his first wife (who became a judge at Crufts), held positions in sales, was a school photographer and worked in newspaper advertisement departments. He died on December 1 2014.

236 Squadron

Moore was born in Dublin on November 21 1916. He was educated in Ireland initially and then in Australia from 1934 to 1936. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 24 1937, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on August 21, completed his training and went to the FAA Pool at Gosport on October 10 1938. He joined 236 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on January 26 1940, from Mount Batten. Moore was appointed ‘C’ Flight Commander on October 26 1940. He took his flight to RAF Aldergrove on November 19, where it joined a flight from 235 Squadron, to reform 272 Squadron on the 21st. Moore was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander of the refomed squadron. He flew his first sortie with 272 on November 23 1940. He joined 143 Squadron on October 29 1943 and was killed, with the squadron, on December 24 as a Squadron Leader, aged 27, operating in Beaufighters from Portreath. Moore is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 118. APO 9.8.37 PO 24.5.38 FO 12.12.39 FL 3.12.40 SL 1.3.42

JAMES WINTER CARMICHAEL MORE 26161

SL

Pilot

British

73 Squadron Born in 1910, More was educated at Haileybury College. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1928, as a Flight Cadet.

On graduation on July 25 1930, with a Permanent Commission, he joined 54 Squadron, Hornchurch, moving on February 12 1932 to 403 (Fleet Fighter) Flight, on HMS Hermes in the Far East. After return to the UK, More joined the staff at RAF College, Cranwell on October 22 1934. In mid-April 1935 he was posted to 43 Squadron at Tangmere and he was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander in January 1936. He returned to the FAA in December 1936, joining 800 (Fleet Fighter) Squadron, based at Southampton and on HMS Courageous. In this aircraft carrier before the war, there was a plaque on the flight deck to commemorate More landing on in a Fury, a feat that amazed the Navy. On October 24 1938 More went to SHQ RAF Cottesmore. He was given command of 73 Squadron in France, arriving at Rouvres on April 13 1940. He destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another on the 21st, destroyed a He 111 and shared another on May 10, damaged a Do 17 on the 11th, destroyed a He 111 on the 13th, a Ju 87 on the 14th, shared a He 111 on the 15th, destroyed a Ju 87 on the 17th and on the 21st he destroyed six enemy aircraft, one each on six sorties. More was awarded the DFC (30.7.40). On August 10 he was posted from 73 to HQ 9 Group and handed over command of the squadron to Squadron Leader M W S Robinson. However, at HQ 12 Group, after leaving the squadron, More learned that his new post at HQ 9 Group would not materialise for several weeks. He returned to 73 Squadron and assumed temporary command on the same day, August 10. It then seems More was attached to HQ 12 Group from September 5. He probably joined HQ 9 Group about October 19. More was promoted to Acting Wing Commander on that day. He was posted from HQ 9 Group to RAF Baginton on December 9 1940, to be Station Commander. More was a Sector Commander in 1941 and in July was badly injured when he crashed in a Beaufighter. He was made an OBE (1.1.42). In late 1941 More was posted to the Far East. He was a Group Captain SASO in January 1943. On the 22nd of the month he went to Maungdaw airfield, to brief crews for an attack

APO 4.8.36 PO 8.6.37 FO 8.3.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41 WC 1.7.45 FL 7.11.51

PERCY FREDERICK MORFILL 47655

F/Sgt

Pilot

British

501 Squadron

Morfill was born at Gosport on December 11 1914 and he went to Bishop Wordsworth’s School, Salisbury. He joined the RAF on September 3 1930, as an Aircraft Apprentice at Halton (564749). After passing out as a Metal Rigger in August 1933, he was posted to FAA Gosport. Morfill applied for pilot training, was selected and began his flying at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble in early January 1936. He went to 6 FTS, Netheravon in March and in January 1937, with training completed, he joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch. Before the war Morfill was in 65’s aerobatic team, of which Flying Officer R R S Tuck was also a member. On May 5 1940 Morfill was posted to 501 Squadron at Tangmere. He went with the squadron to France on May 10, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 11th and a He 111 on the 12th. The squadron withdrew to England on June 18 and re assembled at Croydon on the 21st.

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Morfill destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged two Ju 87s on July 29, destroyed a Bf 110 on August 12, damaged a Bf 109 on the 24th, destroyed a He 111 on the 30th, damaged a Do 17 on September 2, shared a Do 17 on the 11th and destroyed a Do 17 on the 15th. He was awarded the DFM (22.10.40). In June 1941 Morfill was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth. He was sent to CFS, Upavon for an instructor’s course and then returned to 58 OTU. He was posted to CFS, as an instructor, in late 1941 and was commissioned from Warrant Officer in January 1942. Morfill later instructed at 3 FIS, Hullavington and was then posted to Norton, Southern Rhodesia, where he stayed until the end of the war. On return to the UK, he went to Air Ministry, later going to the Ministry of Aircraft Production, on Bomber Research and Development. Morfill stayed on in the RAF, on an Extended Service Commission. He retired on February 4 1958, as a Squadron Leader. His portrait was done by Eric Kennington. Morfill died on April 3 2004 and his ashes are interred in the Tangmere Museum Memorial Garden.

on attachment to the US 4th Fighter Group, to advise on long-range bomber-escort operations. In early 1944 Morgan went as Operations Officer at 11 Group, as a Group Captain. He went to Europe with the 2nd TAF after the invasion, remaining with it until 1946. He was made an OBE (14.6.45). He received a Mention in Despatches in 1946 and was awarded the Bronze Star (US) by President Harry S. Truman. Morgan resigned his commission on November 4 1952. His portrait was drawn by Cuthbert Orde in January 1941. Some time after leaving the RAF, Morgan joined the UK/Australian Joint Project at Woomera, managing the Weapons Range until 1982, after which he continued to live in Australia, with visits to his family in Britain. Morgan died in Australia on September 18 2004.

PO 15.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 15.1.44 FL 1.1.43 SL 1.7.53

HUGH MORGAN-GRAY

APO 21.10.35 PO 26.8.36 FO 26.4.38 FL 26.4.40 SL 1.6.41 WC 1.6.42 WC 1.7.47

40556

PETER JACQUES MORGAN 42992

PO

Pilot

British

APO 19.2.38 PO 29.11.38 FO 29.8.40

EDWARD JAMES MORRIS

PO 7.3.40 FO 7.3.41 FL 7.3.42

40132

THOMAS FREDERICK DALTON MORGAN Pilot

British

46 Squadron

He was detached to 4 E&RFTS, Brough for a Navigation Course, which ran from October 9 1938 to January 10 1939. Morgan-Gray remained with 29 until June 17 1940, when he joined 46 Squadron at Digby on June 17, where it had re-assembled after the loss of the Glorious. On September 3 his aircraft was set alight by return fire from a Do 17 over Rochford and he baled out, wounded. The Hurricane, P 3063, crashed at Apton Hall Farm, Canewdon. He rejoined 46 Squadron, then at Digby, on February 9 1941. Morgan-Gray was killed on February 22 1941, aged 22. He is buried in Scopwick Church Burial Ground, Lincolnshire.

Morgan was seconded to the RAF on March 7 1940 and granted a temporary commission. He went to 8 FTS, Montrose for No 19 Course, which ran from May 6 to August 12 1940. He then went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum for No 14 Course, which ran from August 12 and was scheduled to finish on September 7. However, Morgan arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 2. After converting to Hurricanes, Morgan joined 79 Squadron at Pembrey on September 17 1940. He moved to 238 Squadron at Chilbolton on October 5. Morgan was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1977.

FL

Pilot British

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on November 29 1937. Morgan-Gray was posted to 7 FTS, Peterborough on March 5 1938 and with training completed, he joined 29 Squadron at Debden on September 17.

79 and 238 Squadrons

Morgan entered the Royal Military College, Sandhurst as a Gentleman Cadet and on graduation, on August 26 1937, he received a Regular Army commission, as a 2nd Lieutenant in the 3rd The King’s Own Hussars.

37415

FO

FO

Pilot

South African

79 Squadron

Born on April 6 1915 in Benoni, Transvaal, Morris was educated at Michaelhouse, Natal and later did some training on the training ship General Botha.

43 Squadron Born in Cardiff on March 23 1917, Morgan was educated at Kings Monkton School, Cardiff. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 26 1935. He was posted to 11 FTS, Wittering on November 2 and with training completed, he joined 22 (Torpedo-Bomber) Squadron at Donibristle on November 2 1936.

He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 12 1937. He was posted to 6 FTS, Netheravon on September 18 and on completion of the course he was posted to the Home Aircraft Depot at Henlow on May 7 1938, as a pilot in the Parachute Test Flight. On April 24 1939 Morris joined 79 Squadron at Biggin Hill from 13 MU, Henlow. Still with the squadron in 1940, he shared in the destruction of a He 59 on August 28 and destroyed a He 111 by ramming on the 30th. The Heinkel was on its way to attack Farnborough, when Morris engaged it over Reigate. They collided. Morris baled out, unhurt, landing at Dorking. His Hurricane, P 3203, crashed on Lodge Farm, South Holmwood, Brockham. The Heinkel crashed at Swires Farm, Capel. The next day Morris was wounded and crashed on landing at Biggin Hill, after being damaged by a Bf 109 during an attack on Do 17s over base. In the action he damaged a Do 17. Morris was posted to 238 Squadron at Chilbolton in January 1941, as a Flight Commander. He shared in destroying a Ju 88 on March 23. In May the squadron went to the Middle East and in September Morris was posted to 250 Squadron, to command. He damaged two Bf 109s on November 23 1941, got a probable Bf 109 on December 11 and shared a Bf 110 on January 22 1942. He was posted to HQ Desert Air Force in March and awarded the DSO (7.4.42). In late 1942 Morris was appointed Chief Instructor at 71 OTU, then in the Sudan but later Egypt. He became Wing Leader 251 Wing, Desert Air Force in Italy in late 1943. On April 23 1944 he shared a Bf 109, on June 8 shared a Ju 88 and on the 14th destroyed a Bf 109. He was awarded the DFC (14.11.44) and was posted away at the end of the year to HQ MAAF, as Wing Commander Air Plans. He was awarded the DFC (US) in 1945. Morris was granted a Permanent Commission in May 1945 and went to RAF Staff College. He held a series of appointments and commands in the post-war years. He was made a CBE (1.1.59), a CB (1.1.66) and retired from the RAF on July 16 1968 as an Air Commodore. He died in South Africa on January 18 1999.

Morgan went to Air Ministry on May 29 1939, on the staff of the Directorate of Training. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 4 1940 for a refresher course. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere on June 15, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. On July 3 he damaged a Do 17, on the 12th and 13th Morgan shared in the destruction of two He 111s, on the 21st he destroyed one Bf 109 and damaged another, on August 8 destroyed a Bf 109, a Ju 87 and probably another and on the 13th he shot down a He 111. In this engagement, Morgan’s Hurricane, P 3972, was damaged by cross-fire from He 111s over Petworth and he baled out, slightly wounded. On September 4 he claimed two Bf 110s destroyed and on the 6th he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another. On this day he crashed at Tangmere after combat with Bf 109s over Dungeness, in Hurricane V 6542, wounded in the knee. He was awarded the DFC (6.9.40). On September 16 1940 Morgan was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader and took command of 43 Squadron. During the night of May 5/6 1941 he destroyed a Ju 88 and another enemy aircraft and on the night of the 6/7th he shot down a Ju 88. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (30.5.41). Morgan destroyed a Ju 88 during the night of June 8/9, destroyed a He 111 on July 11 and shared a Ju 88 on the 24th. Immediately afterwards his own engine failed and he landed on the sea, losing two front teeth on impact with the reflector sight in the process. Morgan got into his dinghy, was picked up by HMS Ludlow, transferred to a trawler and taken to hospital at Aberdeen. He destroyed a Ju 88 at night, on October 2 1941. In January 1942 Morgan was posted away to Controller duties at Turnhouse. In November he was promoted and made Wing Commander Ops at 13 Group. He was then appointed Wing Leader at Middle Wallop and on December 1 1942 he damaged a Bf 109. In early 1943 Morgan was made Wing Leader of the Ibsley Wing and on April 5 he shot down a FW 190 and damaged another. He was awarded the DSO (25.5.43) and then went

APO 5.9.37 PO 12.7.38 FO 12.1.40 FL 12.1.41 SL 1.3.42 WC 1.7.47 GC 1.1.56 AC 1.1.62

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GEOFFREY EDWARD MORRIS

NEIL MORRISON

78464

740636

PO Observer

British

FIU

Sgt

Pilot

Morris was born on Boaz Island, Bermuda on April 22 1917. He completed his education at Westminster City School in 1934 and was then employed as a bank clerk in London.

Called up on September 1 1939, he was also probably the Sergeant Morrison serving with 8 B&GS in early 1940, as a staff pilot. He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on September 17 1940. His first flight was made on the 18th, a sector reconnaissance. Morrison moved to 72 Squadron at Biggin Hill on October 4 and then to 74 Squadron, also at Biggin Hill, on the 26th. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on October 29, destroyed another over the Channel between Dover and Calais on November 1 and shared in the destruction of a Bf 109 on December 2, with Squadron Leader A G Malan. Morrison shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 on February 22 1941. He was killed two days later, aged 26, and is buried in Eastwood Cemetery, Glasgow.

OLIVER BERTRAM MORROGH-RYAN 40970

British

Pilot

British

41 Squadron

With training completed, he joined 41 Squadron at Catterick in May 1939. He was still with 41 Squadron at Hornchurch in May 1940 and over Dunkirk on June 1 he shared in destroying a He 111. On August 15 he destroyed a Ju 88. On September 5 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and two days later made a forcedlanding in Kemsley’s Field, Star Lane, Brickfields, Great Wakering, after a combat over Hornchurch, in Spitfire X 4318. Morrogh-Ryan’s last sortie with 41 was made on September 8. He joined 54 Squadron at Catterick in early November 1940 and he made his first flight on November 10, local flying. Morrogh-Ryan was posted away on December 18 1940 to 96 Squadron at its formation at Cranage from 422 Flight. He was killed on July 26 1941, as a Flying Officer with 68 Squadron, operating in Beaufighters from High Ercall. He was 22 and is buried in St Cuthbert’s churchyard, Barton, Yorkshire.

JOHN MORRIS Observer

FO

Morrogh-Ryan joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 27 1938.

PO 7.4.40 FO 7.4.41 FL 7.4.42 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.7.50 WC 1.7.53

PO

54, 72 and 74 Squadrons

Morrison joined the RAFVR about September 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was probably the Sergeant Morrison RAFVR, who was attached to 63 Squadron at Upwood from 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick on April 1 1939 for six months continuous training with the regular RAF.

In March 1939 Morris joined the RAFVR for aircrew duties, as an Airman u/t Observer (746980). Called to full-time service on September 2, he completed his training on April 7 1940 and was commissioned. On the 16th Morris joined the newly-formed Fighter Interception Unit at Tangmere. Its function was to investigate all the capabilities of Airborne Radar for the interception of hostile aircraft at night and to devise the most effective tactical use of the equipment. An official report stated the initial problems were many and varied and at times progress seemed desperately slow, but on the night of July 23 1940 a Blenheim of FIU took off from Tangmere and shot down a Dornier 17 into the sea, having intercepted it and gained a visual sighting of it by use of airborne radar. This was the first time that such a feat had been accomplished. The names of Flying Officer Ashfield, the pilot, and his two AI operators, Pilot Officer Morris and Sergeant Leyland, will never be found among the lists of the famous and yet what they did that night had a greater effect on the future of air warfare than anything else that occurred in the whole of that summer. Although trained as an Observer, Morris flew operationally with FIU as a Radar Operator. In September 1941 Morris went to 60 OTU, East Fortune, as an instructor. He was posted to Kenley in 1943, for operational control duties, and later commanded the GCI stations at Sandwich and Wartling. Morris was awarded a Permanent Commission in September 1945. He served at AHQ Palestine from 1947 until May 1948, when the British Mandate ended. He held various staff appointments until 1968 and his final posting was as OC RAF West Drayton. On May 29 1970 Morris retired from the RAF as a Wing Commander. He died in 2010.

78088

British

248 Squadron

Morris joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (747820). Called up on September 1, he completed his training as an Observer, was commissioned in March 1940 and joined 248 Squadron at North Coates from 4 BGS, West Freugh on the 18th.

APO 20.8.38 PO 27.6.39 FO 3.9.40

On May 11 1940 Morris was detached for a short time to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton. It was whilst with 235, on May 13, that Morris, was flying with Pilot Officer E H McHardy as pilot and LAC E A Ringwood as gunner, both from 248 Squadron, when they damaged an unidentified enemy aircraft, in Blenheim L 1450. Morris was posted to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth on May 31, for further training and rejoined 248 on June 26. He transferred to the Administrative and Special Duties Branch on January 29 1941. Morris was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader.

PERCIVAL ALEXANDER MORTIMER 87382

PO

Pilot

British

85 and 257 Squadrons

Mortimer, of Wrexham, was a student at Imperial College, London from 1934 to 1937, reading Mechanical Engineering and Motive Power at the School of Mines. He joined the RAFVR in July 1937 as an Airman u/t Pilot (740427). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at FTS on August 16 1940 and was commissioned and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 17.

PO 10.3.40 FO 10.3.41 FL 1.6.42

JOSEPH PEARSON MORRISON 754728

Sgt

Pilot

British

17, 43 and 46 Squadrons

Two days later he moved to 7 OTU, Hawarden and after converting to Hurricanes he joined 85 Squadron at Castle Camps on September 4 1940. He moved to 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on the 11th. He shared in destroying a Do 17 and a He 111 on September 15, damaged a Bf 109 on October 15, shared in the destruction of a BR 20 on November 11 and probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 17th. On this day Mortimer was slightly wounded in the left hand by a cannon shell splinter, in combat with Bf 109s over a convoy off Harwich. Mortimer was posted overseas on December 15 1940. He sailed in HMS Furious for the Middle East. On January 9 1941 he flew off with other Hurricanes for Takoradi but crashed on landing. Mortimer eventually went into the Pilots’ Pool at Ismailia. He flew a Hurricane to Malta on March 5 1941, to join 261 Squadron. On April 11 he made a crash-landing, after a combat with Bf 109s, in Hurricane V 7116. Back in the UK, Mortimer was posted to 59 OTU at Crosby-on-Eden on September 1 1942, as an instructor. He was gravely injured in a flying accident in Master T 8431 on November 6 1942 and died from his injuries next day, aged 22. Mortimer is buried in West Road Cemetery, Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

Morrison joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 6 FTS, Little Rissington on No 19 Course, which ran from April 27 to August 3 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 3. Two days later he crashed on the aerodrome in Hurricane L 1741, when his undercarriage collapsed. He was unhurt. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 17 Squadron at Tangmere on August 31. Morrison made his last flight with 17 on September 2 1940 and moved to 43 Squadron, also at Tangmere on September 5. He made his first flight on the 7th, practice flying. On September 17 Morrison joined 46 Squadron at Stapleford Tawney. He was shot down and killed in combat with enemy fighters over Dungeness on October 22. His Hurricane, R 4074, crashed near Newchurch church. Morrison was 25. He is buried in St Andrew’s and Jesmond Cemetery, Newcastle-uponTyne.

PO 17.8.40 FO 17.8.41 FL 17.8.42

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EDWARD BRIAN MORTIMER-ROSE 41944

PO

Pilot British

On October 22 he shared another He 111. For these actions Morton received a Mention in Despatches (29.2.40). On July 15 1940 Morton shared in the destruction of a He 111, on August 28 destroyed a Bf 109, on the 30th probably destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged another, on the 31st he destroyed a Do 17, on September 2 destroyed a Bf 109, on the 5th damaged a Bf 109, on the 7th got a probable He 111, a probable Bf 109 and damaged two others, on the 9th damaged a He 111, on the 18th damaged a Bf 109, on the 28th got a probable Bf 109 and on the 30th he destroyed a Bf 109, shared another, probably destroyed a third and damaged a fourth. Morton was himself shot down in combat with Bf 109s over Dover on October 5 and baled out, burned. His Spitfire, K 9807, crashed near Chilham. Morton was admitted to hospital at RAF Hornchurch and did not return to duty until February 1941. He was then attached to Manchester University Air Squadron and in March moved to Sheffield University Air Squadron. Morton was awarded the DFC (29.4.41). On September 2 1941 Morton arrived at Hornchurch, where 603 was then based. He was there pending training as a Controller. He rejoined 603 Squadron, as a supernumerary and in October he was posted to 54 Squadron at Hornchurch, as a Flight Commander. He went to 51 OTU, Cranfield in January 1942, to prepare for night-fighter duties and took command of 1460 (Turbinlite) Flight at Acklington in March. The Flight became 539 Squadron on September 2 1942 and Morton led it until its disbandment on January 25 1943. He was then posted to 219 Squadron at Scorton as a Flight Commander. On March 14 he destroyed a Do 217 at night but baled out after his Beaufighter was hit by return fire. The squadron went to North Africa in May. Morton destroyed a He 111 at night on August 16. Tour-expired, he returned to the UK in October 1943 and in November went to 54 OTU, Winfield, as an instructor. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (30.11.43). In August 1944 Morton was posted to the Army Staff College and in December he went to a staff job at HQ Fighter Command, remaining there until November 8 1945, when he was released from the RAF, as a Wing Commander. In August 1946 Morton rejoined the AAF and commanded 613 Squadron from its reformation on November 1 1946 until March 1951. He died in 1982.

234 Squadron Born at Littleport, Cambridgeshire, Mortimer-Rose was educated at Haileybury. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on February 6 1939.

He moved on to 6 FTS, Little Rissington for No 12 Course, which ran from May 1 to November 6 1939. With training completed, he was posted to 234 Squadron at Leconfield on November 6 1939, soon after its reformation. On August 8 1940 Mortimer-Rose shared in damaging a Do 17, on the 15th he destroyed a Bf 110, on the 18th he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another and on the 26th he destroyed another Bf 109. Mortimer-Rose was appointed temporary ‘A’ Flight Commander on September 11 and relinquished this command on the 22nd. On October 9 he shared in damaging a Ju 88, on the 26th probably destroyed a Ju 88, on November 24 shared a Do 17, on December 20th damaged a Do 17 and on the 25th damaged a Ju 88. On February 11 1941 Mortimer-Rose damaged a Ju 88, on March 11 shared a Bf 110, on the 23rd damaged a Ju 88, on April 2 got a probable Ju 88, on May 8 he damaged a Do 17 and on the 19th he destroyed two Bf 109s. He was awarded the DFC (6.6.41). He shared a Bf 109 on June 17 1941, destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another on July 14 and damaged two Bf 109s on October 15. Mortimer-Rose went to HQ Middle East at the end of November 1941 and on December 6 he arrived in Malta, to take command of 249 Squadron. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (12.12.41). On December 19 he destroyed a Ju 88 and on the 24th he shared in destroying a Ju 88. Two days later he crash-landed at Luqa, with a bullet wound in his heel. On February 23 1942 Mortimer-Rose was given command of 185 Squadron. Fit again, he resumed operational flying on March 21. On this day he destroyed two Bf 110s and on the 23rd he damaged three Ju 88s. On the 24th he manned ground-defence machine guns during an attack on Hal Far. Bombs fell close by and Mortimer-Rose was buried in debris up to his waist and his eardrums were pierced. He was taken to hospital. After a rest from operations, he joined 111 Squadron at Souk-el-Khemis in December 1942. He was killed on January 28 1943, when he collided with Wing Commander G K Gilroy (qv) over Khemis and spun in. Mortimer-Rose was 22. He is buried in Medjez-el-Bab War Cemetery, Tunisia.

APO (AAF) 23.5.39 PO (AAF) 14.7.39 PO 24.8.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 8.3.44 SL (AAFRO) 1.8.46

RAYMOND CHRISTOPHER MOSS 174241

Sgt

Air Gunner

FRANK MORTON F/Sgt

Pilot

British

263 Squadron

Morton entered the RAF on June 29 1936, as a pupil pilot. He was successful on his ab initio course and was formally enlisted in the RAF on August 24 1936, as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot.

After the Battle of Britain, Moss retrained as a radar operator and on December 8 1940 he was shown in the 29 Squadron ORB as being in ‘A’ Flight, which was operating exclusively with Beaufighters. In 1942 he was with 89 Squadron in the Middle East, again in Beaufighters. In January 1943 a detachment of the squadron went to Calcutta, Moss with it, to form the nucleus

With training completed, he joined 213 Squadron from 8 FTS on June 1 1937. Subsequently Morton seems to have served with second line units until June 10 1940, when he arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 263 Squadron at Drem on June 23. There is no documentary evidence that he is entitled to the Battle of Britain clasp but he could be eligible and is included in this work until proved otherwise. Morton was killed in a flying accident in a Blenheim on January 9 1941, still serving with 263 Squadron.

of 176 Squadron. On January 19 Moss and his pilot, Flying Officer C A Crombie, destroyed two Mitsubishi Sallys. One engine of their Beaufighter was hit by return fire and set alight and Crombie ordered Moss to bale out. He stayed to damage a third Sally and then baled out himself. Moss was awarded the DFC (19.2.43), as a Warrant Officer. The citation stated that he and Crombie had flown together in the UK, Middle East and India and had destroyed eight enemy aircraft and damaged another. Commissioned in March 1944, Moss was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He ran a delicatessen in Cornwall, lived in London and worked as a freelance journalist before moving to Kent. He died in February 2000.

JAMES STORRS MORTON 90727

FO

Pilot

British

29 Squadron

Moss was born on August 7 1917 and joined 600 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand (800670). Called up on August 24 1939, he remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and after completing his training at 5 B&GS, Jurby, he joined 29 Squadron at Digby on July 1 1940 and flew his first operational sortie on September 18.

APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41

580250

British

603 Squadron

Born in Blackheath, London on April 24 1916, he was educated at St Anselm’s Preparatory School, Bakewell, Derbyshire, Loretto School, Musselburgh and then Pembroke College, Cambridge, where he read Physics, Chemistry and Physiology.

PO 29.3.44 FO 29.9.44 FL 29.3.46

WILLIAM JAMES MARCH MOSS Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

Morton joined the University Air Squadron in February 1936 and after leaving Cambridge he transferred to the RAFVR on November 16 1937. He worked for the Fife Coal Co at Cowdenbeath, as a trainee manager. In May 1939 he joined 603 Squadron, AAF. Called to fulltime service on August 28 1939, Morton was involved in an accident on October 1. As he came in to land at Grangemouth he hit a taxying Spitfire, killing the pilot, Flying Officer J A B

Pilot

British

213 Squadron

Born on October 31 1917, Moss entered the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on July 1 1939. He did his ground training at HMS President, Frobisher and St Vincent. On October 9 1939 he began his ab initio flying course at 14 EFTS, Castle Bromwich and then moved on December 11 to 7 FTS, Peterborough, where he was awarded his wings on March 17 1940. After completing the course on May 26, Moss was loaned to the RAF and on June 15 he was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden, where he converted to Hurricanes. Moss joined 213 Squadron at Exeter on July 1 1940. He was killed on August 27, when he lost control and

Somerville. Morton shared in the probable destruction of a He 111 over the Firth of Forth on October 16, the first enemy aircraft to be destroyed over British territory since 1918.

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Prestwick on the 19th and was promoted to Adjudant. Commissioned in February 1941, Mouchotte temporarily commanded ‘B’ Flight from March 4, when Flight Lieutenant C N Foxley-Norris went into hospital. Mouchotte was awarded the C de G (Fr)(2.7.41) and on July 29 he was made a Flight Commander. Mouchotte destroyed a Ju 88 on August 26 and on November 10 was posted to Turnhouse, as Deputy ‘A’ Flight Commander with 340 Squadron, then forming there. He was promoted to Captain in March 1942 and awarded the DFC (1.9.42). On January 18 1943 Mouchotte returned to Turnhouse, to form and command 341 Squadron. In May the squadron was at Biggin Hill and on the 15th excitement was running high as to who would claim the sector’s 1000th victory. Mouchotte destroyed a FW 190, apparently coinciding exactly with the destruction of another by Squadron Leader E F J Charles. It being impossible to decide whose had been the first to fall, the two pilots shared the honour and the cash sweepstake, getting £90 each. Mouchotte destroyed a Bf 109 on May 17. He probably destroyed a FW 190 on August 19 and damaged a Bf 109 on the 22nd. On August 27 1943 Mouchotte failed to return from a sweep over St Omer and was reported ‘Missing’. After the war, evidence showed that his body was washed up on the beach at Middelkerke, Belgium on September 3 and that he was buried there. Mouchotte was awarded the Croix de la Liberation (8.5.43) and the Croix de la Légion d’Honneur (20.10.43). His body was exhumed in October 1949 and returned to France. In a ceremony at Pere-Lachaise Cemetery, Paris on November 3 1949, Mouchotte was buried in the family vault. His family had never claimed his Battle of Britain Clasp. In 2012 the Clasp was presented to representatives of the family by the British Ambassaor to France. A street in Paris is named in Mouchotte’s honour. In 2013 the RAF HQ in Gibraltar was named the Mouchotte Building.

crashed into the sea during a routine patrol, in Hurricane N 2336. Moss is remembered on the Fleet Air Arm Memorial at Lee-on-Solent. Midshipman (A) 1.7.39 Actg Sub-Lt (A) 31.10.39 Sub-Lt (A)14.3.40

WALTER HENRY MOTT 139388

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

141 Squadron

Born on April 4 1910, Mott joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (751134). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training as an Air Gunner and joined 141 Squadron at Turnhouse on August 21 1940. Mott was flying with Pilot Officer A D Meredith in a Defiant on May 6 1941. They intercepted, attacked and destroyed a He 111 near Cresswell, Northumberland. Mott joined 410 (RCAF) Squadron on August 7 1941. Commissioned in December 1942, Mott retired from the RAF on May 30 1964, as a Squadron Leader. PO 14.12.42 FO 14.6.43 FL 14.12.44 FL 14.12.48 SL 1.7.58

ROY MOTTRAM 42870

PO

Pilot

British

92 Squadron

Mottram joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 24 1939. He moved on to 14 FTS, Kinloss for No 3 Course, from November 4 1939 to April 20 1940.

Sous-Lt 17.2.41 Lt 5.8.41 Capt 15.3.42

EDWARD ANTHONY MOULD 67599

With training completed, he joined 92 Squadron at Croydon on April 20, direct from FTS. On July 25 Mottram shared in the probable destruction of a Ju 88 and on September 15 he claimed a He 111 destroyed and a Do 17 damaged. Three days later he crashed at Hollingbourne after a combat with Bf 109s. His Spitfire burned out. Mottram was admitted to Orpington Hospital, with slight burns. On October 20 he shared a Bf 110, on the 26th he probably destroyed a Bf 109, on November 17 he damaged a Bf 109 and on the 28th he destroyed another. Mottram shared in the destruction of a Bf 109 on May 16 1941. On June 18 he went to 54 Squadron at Hornchurch, as a Flight Commander. On June 25 Mottram destroyed a Bf 109, and on June 26 and July 8 he probably destroyed two more. He was killed on August 31 1941 as a Flight Lieutenant with 54 Squadron. Mottram is buried in Merville Communal Cemetery Extension, France.

Pilot

French

British

74 Squadron

Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and was with 74 Squadron at Leconfield in May 1940. On the 22nd he shared in destroying a Ju 88 and after being shot down over the French coast on the 24th, he returned to England by boat. On July 8 Mould damaged a Bf 109 of JG 51, which made a forced-landing on Bladbean Hill, Elham, Kent, the first German fighter shot down over England in the war. On the 12th he shared in the destruction of a He 111, with Squadron Leader A G Malan and Pilot Officer P C F Stevenson. Mould was shot down by Bf 109s in combat off Dover on the 28th and baled out, wounded. He was admitted to Dover Military Hospital. His Spitfire, P 9336, crashed on the roof at Buckland Mill, N of Dover. He did not fly with 74 Squadron again until 1941. Commissioned in May 1941, Mould damaged a Bf 109 on April 28, probably destroyed another on June 21 and damaged another on June 22, all three on sweeps over France. Mould was killed on January 20 1943, as a Flying Officer with 85 Squadron, aged 26. His Mosquito crashed into Bradwell Bay during an interception patrol. His radar operator, Pilot Officer W Fisher, was also killed. Mould is buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery, Woking.

RENÉ GASTON OCTAVE JEAN MOUCHOTTE Adjudant

Pilot

Mould, of Mill Hill, Middlesex, joined the RAFVR about February 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741299). Having reached the required standard, he was given the chance of six months of continuous training with the regular RAF. Mould joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on July 1 1939.

APO 23.10.39 PO 20.4.40 FO 20.4.41

30661

Sgt

245 and 615 Squadrons

Mouchotte was born on August 21 1914 at Saint Mande, the son of a well-to-do family. He was intended to go into the family business but was more interested in aviation. In 1934 he was liable to military service and he joined l’Armée de l’Air, as a pupil pilot, and obtained his flying brevet. On returning to civil life, Mouchotte continued to fly.

PO 22.5.41 FO 22.5.42

ERIC WALTER MOULTON

Mobilised at the outbreak of war he tried to get into operational flying but was posted to a flying school, as an instructor. Despite frequent requests for transfer, he remained instructing. On a refresher course at Avord, he met Charles Guerin and they were posted, as instructors, to North Africa. In June 1940 they were on a Morane 406 course at the Fighter School at Oran. When the Armistice was signed on June 22, Mouchotte and Guerin decided to go to England. With four other French pilots, they took off at dawn on the 30th for Gibraltar in a Caudron Goeland. They sailed for England on July 3 in the French armed trawler President Houduce, arrived at Liverpool on the 19th, went to Olympia in London until the 25th, when they went to RAF St Athan, where 4 S of TT was being used as a depot for the French. Eleven French pilots, including Mouchotte and Guerin, were posted to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum on July 29. They moved to Odiham on August 10, for testing and grading, with No 1 Fighter Training Squadron, Free French Air Force, where they put in about 15 hours on Tiger Moths and Hectors. On August 19 Mouchotte went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 245 Squadron at Aldergrove on September 11 1940, moved to 615 Squadron at

630470

Sgt

Radar Operator

British

600 Squadron

Moulton joined the RAF, as an Aircrafthand, in January 1939. He must have volunteered for aircrew duties and done a short radar course. He had joined 600 Squadron at Manston by July 1 1940. He flew his first operational sortie in a Blenheim on August 4, as an Aircraftsman, and his first in a Beaufighter on October 6, as a Sergeant. No further service details traced.

MAURICE HEWLETT MOUNSDON 42871

PO

Pilot

British

56 Squadron

Mounsdon joined the RAF on a short service commission. On August 24 1939 he began his elementary flying training at 3 E&RFTS, Burnaston Hall, Derby. On October 20 he went to 3 ITW, Hastings and he was commissioned on the 23rd. He was posted to 14 FTS, Kinloss on November 2, later moving to Cranfield in April

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Mowat was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on April 18 1940 and was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant. Near Dunkirk on June 1, he probably destroyed two Bf 109s. The squadron carried out a very successful low-level attack on the airfield at Rouen-Boos on June 20 and Mowat led the second section of three Hurricanes. Much damage was done to the fifty aircraft on the ground. He received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.41). On March 17 1941 Mowat was posted to 607 Squadron at Drem, as a Flight Commander. He took command of the squadron on December 3. He led 607 in the operations against the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau on February 12 1942 and he was personally responsible for the destruction of a vessel in the convoy. Mowat was awarded the DSO (16.3.42). On March 21 the squadron sailed from Liverpool in the Empress of Russia for India and by June 20 was at Alipore, with Hurricane 11cs. In mid-July it moved to Jessore, Burma, to begin operations against the Japanese along the Irrawaddy. On October 1 1942 Mowat was posted to lead 166 Wing at Chittagong but again took command of 607 on March 5 1943. In April he was posted away and began a series of staff jobs. Mowat served at Air HQ Bengal, 3rd TAF Air Command South East Asia, Air HQ India and Base HQ Bombay. He returned to the UK in August 1944 and went to the Fighter Leaders’ School at Milfield. On December 2 Mowat was appointed Station Commander at RAF Peterhead. After a further series of staff jobs in 1945, he was posted to HQ 2nd TAF on April 1 1946 and on June 24 he was given command of 4 Squadron at Guterslöh, Germany. He was a passenger in an Anson, which struck a high chimney and crashed near Hamm on November 7 1946. The crew and passengers were all killed. Mowat is buried in Munster Heath War Cemetery.

1940. With his training completed, Mounsdon spent a few days at No 1 Flying Practise Unit at Meir. He was due to join 56 Squadron but was sent to 66 Squadron at Duxford on May 18 1940.The mistake was corrected and he joined 56 Squadron at Digby on June 3. Mounsdon shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on July 3, probably destroyed a Ju 87 on July 25, probably a Bf 110 on August 13, destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged another on the 18th, damaged a He 111 on the 24th and destroyed a Bf 109 on the 26th. Mounsdon was shot down by Bf 109s over Colchester on August 31 and landed by parachute near the village of Great Easter. He spent the next nine months in various hospitals and became a Guinea Pig from a stay at Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead. On June 4 1941 Mounsdon returned to duty on the staff at SHQ North Weald. He was posted to 4 FIS, Cambridge on April 4 1942 and afterwards instructed at 22 EFTS, Cambridge from June 9 1942 until December 18 1943 and then at 21 EFTS, Booker until April 14 1945, when he was posted to 8303 Air Disarmament Wing in Germany. Mounsdon was released from the RAF on February 22 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. APO 23.10.39 PO 17.5.40 FO 17.5.41 FL 17.5.42

CHRISTOPHER JOHN MOUNT 36162

FL

Pilot

British

602 Squadron Mount was the son of an Army officer, killed at the Battle of Loos. He was born on December 14 1913 and he was educated at Eton and Trinity College, Oxford, where he read Law. Whilst there Mount was in the University Air Squadron.

APO 20.2.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 18.7.40 FL 18.7.41 SL 21.6.43

ROBERT INNES MOWAT 974191

He joined 600 Squadron, AAF in 1935 and entered the RAF in June 1938, with a direct-entry Permanent Commission, with a special seniority, which varied according to the entrant’s university degree. In Mount’s case this was eighteen months. His first RAF posting was to 23 Squadron at Hawkinge. On July 24 1939 Mount was appointed Personal Assistant to Air Vice-Marshal R E Saul, AOC HQ 13 Group, Newcastle. Mount arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 21 1940 for a refresher course. He joined 602 Squadron at Drem on August 8. He damaged a Do 17 on September 12, shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 on the 21st, damaged a Ju 88 on October 5 and destroyed a Bf 109 on the 29th. Mount was awarded the DFC (26.11.40). In January 1941 Mount was posted to Acklington, to form and command 317 Squadron. He took command of 260 Squadron at Drem in April 1941. In May the squadron embarked on HMS Victorious at Scapa Flow, which carried Hurricanes, with wings detached. At Gibraltar the aircraft were transferred to the Ark Royal and the aircraft were put on the flight deck and their wings re-attached. They flew off to Malta on June 14 1941, refuelled there and then flew on to Egypt two days later. In August Mount went down with a burst appendix and was in hospital for several months. He took command of 238 Squadron in the Western Desert on March 1 1942 and led it until July 1. Later in the year, Mount went on a Wellington conversion course and then joined 70 Squadron, as a supernumerary Flight Commander. He was posted to 104 Squadron in Egypt in early 1943. When the CO fell ill, Mount took command of the squadron. After completing his tour, he was awarded the DSO (1.10.43) and became Operations Officer for a Liberator/Halifax Wing, later serving as a staff officer at HQ Middle East. Mount went to RAF Staff College, Haifa in 1945. He was made a CBE (2.1.56) and retired from the RAF on December 26 1966, as an Air Commodore. After a six month refresher course on law, he joined a law firm in Berkshire and became a partner in 1970. His portrait was drawn by Cuthbert Orde. Mount died on July 23 2003 PO (AAF) 23.11.35 FO (AAF) 23.5.37 PO 26.6.38 (Seny 26.12.36) FL 3.9.40 SL 1.9.41 WC 1.7.43 WC 1.10.46 GC 1.7.51 AC 1.1.58

Pilot

New Zealander

British

248 Squadron

After completing his training, Mowat was posted to 248 Squadron at Sumburgh on October 9 1940. He joined 53 Squadron at Bircham Newton on July 10 1941 and on December 11 he went to a Hudson ferrying unit for service in India. Mowat joined 353 Squadron at its formation at Dum Dum on June 1 1942 and served with it in India and Burma until March 1944. He then went to 294 Squadron, an ASR unit operating in Wellington and Walrus aircraft along the coast of North Africa, Egypt, Palestine and Cyprus. After returning to the UK in February 1945, Mowat’s final posting was as a flying controller in Orkney. He was released from the RAF on October 30 1945, as a Warrant Officer. Mowat died in 2002.

HAROLD FREDERICK JOHN MOYNHAM 634201

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

248 Squadron

Moynham, of Tooting, London, joined the RAF on February 13 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. He joined 248 Squadron in late July 1940. On November 3 1940, still serving with 248, he was in Blenheim L 9392, with Pilot Officer A H H Garrad as pilot and Sergeant E A Bayliss as observer. The aircraft was last seen attacking a He 111 over the North Sea and is presumed to have been shot down by return fire. All three men aboard were lost. Moynham was 21 years old. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 17.

FO 26.8.38

KAREL MRAZEK

NOEL JOSEPH MOWAT FO

Wop/AG

Mowat was born at Lybster, Caithness, Scotland on November 17 1915 and educated at the local school. Before the war he was a haulage contractor. He joined the RAFVR on December 8 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG.

82561 41725

Sgt

PO

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

310, 43 and 46 Squadrons

Mrazek was born on November 29 1910 at Nachod. He left school in 1925 and briefly worked for an electrical company before completing his education at the Technical School at Brno in 1930, gaining a degree in Electrical Engineering.

245 Squadron

Mowat was born on September 18 1914 at Clydevale, Otago and was educated at St Kevin’s College, Oamaru. He went to work on his father’s farm and later was employed by the Public Works Department on survey and construction work.

On October 1 1932 he began military service attending the Military Aviation Academy at Prostejov for eight months and was then posted to Air Regiment 3 at Nitra. After serving as an observer with the 10th Observation Flight, he entered the Military Academy at Hranice na Morave in 1933 and graduated as a pilot in June 1933, with the rank of Lieutenant. Mrazek joined the 35th Fighter Squadron of the 2nd Air Regiment at Olomouc. After serving with the 14th Observation Flight, he was appointed Provisional Commander of the 33rd Fighter Flight in September 1937 and confirmed in the post in April 1938. At the age of 26 he had become the youngest Commander in the Czech Air Force. On November 1

In April 1938 Mowat applied for an RAF short service commission, was accepted and sailed for the UK on November 19 in the RMS Rangitiki. On December 28, the day after his arrival, he went to 9 E&RFTS, Ansty to begin his ab initio course, as a pupil pilot. Mowat was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on March 4 1939, completed his training at 6 FTS, Little Rissington and on November 6 he joined 245 Squadron, then forming at Leconfield.

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to 4 FIS, for an instructor’s course, and then went to 25 EFTS, Hucknall on October 23. He was then posted to 16 FTS, Newton and was there until his release from the PAF in November 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. Muchowski later changed his name to K A Steven. He died in 1988.

1937 he completed training as a night-fighter pilot. The Germans took over Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939. and he was demobilised two days later. On May 29 1939, with other ex-Air Force personnel, posing as hikers, Mrazek crossed the border, near Bailey Kris, into Poland. He was briefly interned at Cassin, before being transferred to Krakow, on June 3 1939, where he reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate. Later that month he travelled to Gdynia and boarded the Sobieski which sailed to France, arriving on June 29. He joined the Foreign Legion, the only unit open to foreigners with the agreement that if war was declared he would be transferred to a French military unit. On August 7 1939 he sailed from Marseille to Algeria where he was posted to the training camp of the 1st Regiment of the French Foreign Legion at Sidi-bel-Abbes. At the outbreak of war, Mrazek was seconded to l’Armée de l’Air. He re-trained to French equipment, initially, from September 3, at Tunis airbase, and then, from September 10, at Blida and from October 20 at CIC Oran for conversion to MS-406 aircraft. Transfer to an operational unit was delayed. Mrazek was posted to GC I/6 at Loges airbase, Paris but only managed to reach the Marignane base at Marseille due to the German invasion of France. On June 13 he was assigned to the GR4/108 Reconnaissance unit at Marignane but was with the unit for only 10 days before France capitulated and he was released from l’Armee de l’Air service. In his time with the unit it moved to Oran, Algeria. Following his release from service he made his way to Casablanca and boarded the Gib-el-Dersa bound for Gibraltar. Here he transferred to the Neuralia and sailed to Liverpool arriving on July 12 1940. Mrazek went, initially to the Czech transit camp at Cholmondeley and then transferred to the Czechoslovak Airmen’s Depot at Cosford. He was Commissioned into the RAFVR on August 2. Mrazek joined 310 Squadron at Duxford on August 6 awaiting conversion to Hurricanes. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 17. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 43 Squadron at Usworth on September 11. He moved to 46 Squadron at Stapleford Tawney on the 17th. Five days later he made a forced-landing at Rochester, after his Hurricane’s engine was damaged in combat with enemy aircraft over North Kent after achieving a probable Ju 88. On November 1, flying Hurricane V3429) Mrazek damaged a Bf 109, near Hawkinge, and on the 11th he shot down two CR 42s, of the Italian Air Force, into the sea off Harwich. On May 17 1941 he was posted to 313 Squadron, then forming at Catterick and equipped with Spitfire I aircraft, as a Flight Commander. Mrazek took command of the squadron on December 15 1941. He destroyed a Bf 109 on March 28 1942 in Spitfire P8351, damaged a FW 190 on April 12 in Spitfire BM117, damaged another on June 23 in Spitfire BM419 and shared in the destruction of a Bf 109 on August 28. He was awarded the DFC (23.6.42) and from June 27 1942 to May 1 1943 Mrazek led the Czech Wing at Exeter. He was awarded the DSO (18.12.42). On April 1 1943 Mrazek was posted to Church Stanton as Station Commander and on May 24 1943 he went to RAF Staff College, after which he served as Czechoslovak Liaison Officer at HQ Fighter Command. Mrazek left the RAF in May 1945 as a Group Captain. He returned to Czechoslovakia on June 6 and was assigned to the Czechoslovak Air Force Headquarters in Prague. On October 28 1945 he was appointed Commander of the 3rd Air Regiment in Brno but 2 days later was recalled to Prague to attend a course at the Air Force Staff College. Having graduated from the course he returned to the 3rd Air Regiment as Commander on July 14 1946. During the period up to February 1948 he was openly critical of the rising influence of Soviet Russia on Czechoslovakia. Following the Communist takeover of Czechoslovakia, in February 1948, Mrazek was relieved of his command on March 27 and placed on waiting leave. He was then arrested and detained awaiting trial under suspicion that he was planning to escape to the West. The case was dismissed due to lack of evidence but he was not permitted to return to the Czech Air Force and was only allowed to carry out menial work. Mrazek died at Jablonec nad Nissou in the Czech Republic, on December 5 1998.

MICHAEL ROBERT MUDIE 42073

PO

Pilot

British

615 Squadron

Born in Singapore on February 26 1916, Mudie studied at King’s College, London. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 27 1939, as a pupil pilot. With training completed, Mudie arrived at 11 Group Pool on November 20 1939. After further training he was transferred to 2 Ferry Pilot Pool on December 21, as a reserve for France. He joined 615 Squadron at Vitry-en-Artois on January 26 1940. In March, while on leave, he suffered a bullet wound to a leg. On May 15 Mudie made a forced-landing at Bapaume, after an engagement with Do 17s. 615 Squadron was withdrawn to Kenley on May 20 1940. Three days later ‘G’ Flight of 615 was formed, with six pilots and Gladiators. The flight moved immediately to Manston, where it was attached to 604 Squadron for operations. The flight returned to Kenley on May 30 and was disbanded. Mudie was shot down by Bf 109s in combat over a convoy off Dover on July 14, in Hurricane L 1584. He baled out, badly wounded and was rescued from the sea by the Navy and admitted to Dover Hospital. On arrival at the hospital his wounds were recorded as burns and a gun shot wound to the face. Mudie died the next day, aged 24. He is buried in Esher Cemetery, East Molesey, Surrey. His brother, Flight Lieutenant A F Mudie, died in action on November 11 1940, aged 22. He was serving with 84 Squadron in operations against the Italians in Albania. He is remembered on the Alamein Memorial. APO 27.5.39 PO 18.11.39

WLODZIMIERZ MUDRY 780416

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

79 Squadron

Born on April 29 1917, Mudry arrived in England in early 1940. He enlisted in the RAFVR in February at RAF Eastchurch. From June 1 1940 Mudry was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. On August 12 he went to No 1 School of Army Cooperation, Old Sarum for the 4th Polish Pilots’ Course, for testing and grading. Mudry arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 19 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 79 Squadron at Pembrey on September 11 1940. Mudry flew his first operational sortie on September 29. He was detached to 87 Squadron at Colerne on December 1 1940. He rejoined 79 on December 20. He was posted to the newly-formed 316 Squadron, also at Pembrey, on February 23 1941. Mudry went to 286 Squadron on March 4 1942, an anti-aircraft co-operation unit. He joined the staff at 16 FTS, Newton on June 24 1944. He did an instructor’s course there and began instructing on November 17. He was released from the PAF in January 1946. Mudry rejoined the RAF and he was gazetted as a Master Pilot on August 1 1948. He was commissioned on February 15 1951 and he retired on April 29 1967 as a Flight Lieutenant. FO 15.2.51 FL 10.11.55

PO 2.8.40 FO 27.12.40 FL 17.5.41 SL 15.12.41 WC 28.6.42 GC 4.1.45

IAN JAMES MUIRHEAD 43362

PO

Pilot

British

605 Squadron

KONRAD ANTONI MUCHOWSKI P 2208

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

85 and 501 Squadrons

Born on July 3 1918, Muchowski arrived in England and from June 1 1940 he was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting.

Muirhead was born in 1913 at West Ham, Essex and his family later moved to Carlisle. He was educated at Nelson School, Wigton. He joined the RAF in September 1929, as an Aircraft Apprentice (563513) and passed out in August 1932.

On August 12 he went to No 1 School of Army Cooperation, Old Sarum for the 4th Polish Pilots’ Course, for testing and grading. Muchowski arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 19 and converted to Hurricanes. He joined 85 Squadron at Church Fenton on September 12 1940 and to 501 Squadron at Kenley on October 23. Muchowski was posted to 308 Squadron at Baginton on March 9 1941. He was rested on June 25 and went to CGS, Warmwell, as a staff pilot. On July 22 1942 Muchowski was sent

He later applied for pilot training and was selected. Before the war Muirhead was serving with 151 Squadron. He was promoted to Flight Sergeant on October 24 1939 and commissioned in April 1940. Muirhead joined 605 Squadron at Wick on April 6 1940. On the 10th he damaged a He 111. The squadron moved south to Hawkinge on May 21. He destroyed a He 111 and damaged another on May 22, destroyed a Hs 126 and two Ju 87s on the 25th and destroyed a Bf 110 on the 26th. On this day Muirhead was patrolling Dunkirk when he was shot down, very probably by Royal Navy

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

anti-aircraft gunners. He baled out, wounded or injured, was rescued from the sea and admitted to hospital. Muirhead was made non-effective sick and did not rejoin 605 until July 15. He was awarded the DFC (28.6.40), 605’s first decoration. He claimed a He 111 destroyed on August 15 and shared a Do 17 on September 24. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on the 29th and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant about October 10. Muirhead was shot down in combat with Bf 109s over South London on October 7 and baled out, unhurt. His Hurricane, V 7305, crashed and burned out at Bexley. In the action he damaged a Bf 109. Muirhead was shot down and killed by Bf 109s over Maidstone on October 15 1940. His Hurricane, N 2546, crashed at Spekes Bottom, Darland, near Gillingham. He was 27. He is buried in St Mary’s churchyard, Holme Cultram, Cumberland.

Mungo-Park took command of 74 Squadron on March 10 1941, when Sailor Malan was posted away. He was attacked by six Bf 109s over the French coast on June 16 and shot down two but his Spitfire’s glycol system was damaged and after his engine seized he glided back across the coast and made a crash-landing near Hawkinge. On a sweep over France on June 27 1941, Mungo-Park was shot down and killed. He is buried in Adinkerke Military Cemetery, Belgium. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (11.7.41). His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde and Eric Kennington in 1940.

PO 1.4.40

WELLESLEY SPENCER MUNN

APO 9.8.37 PO 31.5.38 FO 31.12.39 FL 31.12.40

45255

F/Sgt

Pilot

British

MIECZYSLAW MUMLER P 1288

SL

Pilot

Polish

Munn was born on November 20 1911 and went to Waverley Road Secondary School, Birmingham. He joined the RAF in January 1928 as an Aircraft Apprentice (562212) and passed out in December 1930, as a Fitter, Aero Engines.

302 Squadron

Born on December 10 1899, Mumler trained as an artillery officer and transferred to the 11th Fighter Regiment in 1926, for flying training.

In April 1936 he remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot and with training completed, he joined 29 Squadron at North Weald in April 1937. He served throughout the Battle of Britain with the squadron. Munn was awarded the DFM (17.1.41), 29 Squadron’s first. He was decorated by the King in a ceremony at Waddington. Commissioned in January 1941, Munn was serving with 153 Squadron in North Africa in August 1943. He stayed on in the RAF after the war, in the Aircraft Control Branch. Munn retired on February 29 1960 as a Squadron Leader. He died of a heart attack on December 16 1981.

Mumler commanded 132 Eskadra at Posnan from 1929 to 1937 and in 1938 he was promoted to command III/3 Mysliwski Division.This was the only fighter division to retain its operational capability until the Russians invaded Poland on September 17 1939. On September 6 and 12 he destroyed He 111s and on the 13th a Hs 126. He went to Romania and then on to France. Mumler joined l’Armée de l’Air and organised the 2e Groupe de Chasse Polonaise. The unit was broken up into sections, which were detached for duties at strategic locations, Mumler flew with Groupe de Chasse II/7. He destroyed a He 111 near the Swiss border on June 1 1940, shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on June 15 and destroyed a He 111 and damaged another on the 18th. When France collapsed, he went to England and joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield from the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool on July 26, as joint CO. He was detached to Duxford on September 16. Mumler claimed a Do 17 destroyed on the 18th. He rejoined 302 on the 26th. He was posted to CFS, Upavon on December 15, for an instructor’s course. Awarded the VM (5th Class)(1.2.41), he was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on February 24 1941 and was there until August 1942. Mumler was made Station Commander at Northolt a month later. He continued to fly occasional sorties. On February 3 1943 he was flying with 308 Squadron on a Ventura escort to Courtrai and damaged a FW 190. Mumler was awarded the KW (7.4.43). On October 24 1943 he was posted to HQ 84 Group, as Polish Liaison Officer, was awarded a Bar to the KW (15.2.44) and made a CBE (9.2.45). Mumler was posted to HQ Fighter Command on June 19 1945 and returned to 84 Group on February 21 1946. He was released from the PAF later in the year as a Group Captain. In addition to his other awards, he also held the C de G (Fr). Mumler settled in England and died there in 1985.

PO 22.1.41 FO 22.1.42 FL 16.12.42 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.1.51

JOHN GRAY MUNRO 36016

Pilot

British

Pilot

British

263 Squadron

Munro learned to fly with the University Air Squadron and he was commissioned in Class ‘AA’ (section ii) of the RAFO in 1934. On September 29 1934 Munro joined the RAF with a direct-entry commission, one of the few offered in competition each year to graduates of British and Commonwealth universities. Munro did his flying training at 3 FTS, Grantham and on September 5 1935 he joined 47 Squadron in Khartoum. He returned to the UK in February 1936 and went to the Aircraft Armament Co-operation Flight. On August 29 1937 Munro went to the Air Armament School and moved to the Research and Development Department of Air Ministry on August 15 1938, where he was associated with the design of servo-fed 20 mm cannons, which were later installed in RAF fighters. Munro went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 19 1940, for a refresher course and conversion to Hurricanes. He was posted to 263 Squadron at Grangemouth on July 15 but was immediately detached to Air Ministry. Munro finally joined 263 on August 7 1940, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. He served with the squadron at Grangemouth and later Drem during the remaining period of the Battle of Britain. Like Squadron Leader Eeles, Munro’s name does not appear in the 263 ORB as having flown operationally during the Battle of Britain period. However, after his son contacted the Ministry of Defence in October 1981, it subsequently issued the Clasp to Munro’s widow. On December 16 1940 Munro took command of 263 and led it until March 3 1941, when he went to the Aircraft Gun Mounting Establishment at Duxford, as Chief Test Pilot and Chief Technical Officer. He was given command of the unit on September 23 1941. When the unit was amalgamated with the A&AEE, Boscombe Down in late 1941, Munro was promoted and appointed Wing Commander Fighters at the Telecommunications Flying Unit at Hurn, responsible for the testing and performance assessment of radar and other electronic equipment. He moved with the TFU to the Radar Research Establishment at Defford in May 1942. Munro went to Army Staff College on August 6 1942 and on graduation in December he was posted to HQ Fighter Command. He held a series of staff jobs until July 25 1943,

JOHN COLIN MUNGO-PARK FO

SL

The son of a lawyer, Munro was born in Aberdeen on March 24 1913. He was educated at Aberdeen Grammar School and St John’s College, Cambridge, where he graduated with Honours in the Mechanical Sciences Tripos.

SL 1.3.41 WC 1.3.43

40008

29 Squadron

74 Squadron

Born in Wallasey, Cheshire in 1918, Mungo-Park was educated at Liverpool College. He joined the RAF on May 31 1937 on a short service commission and began his ab initio course, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on August 21. With training completed, Mungo-Park went to 2 AACU at Lee-onSolent on March 26 1938 and then to the Fleet Requirements Unit, HMS Argus on August 22 1938. He joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch from RNAS Ford on September 4 1939. Over Dunkirk on May 24 1940, he shared a Hs 126. On July 10 Mungo-Park claimed a Do 17 destroyed, on August 11 a Bf 110 and a Bf 109 destroyed, two Bf 110s probably destroyed and a Bf 109 damaged, on the 13th a probable Do 17, on September 11 a He 111 destroyed and a Ju 88 damaged and on the 14th a Bf 110 probably destroyed. Mungo-Park was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on August 31 and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on September 8. He shot down a Bf 109 on October 20, got a probable Bf 109 on the 22nd, damaged two more on the 27th and 28th, destroyed two Bf 109s on the 29th, damaged another on November 2, shot down two Ju 87s on the 14th and shared a Bf 109 on the 30th, Biggin Hill’s 600th victory. He was awarded the DFC (15.11.40).

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ALAN DUNCAN MURRAY

when he was posted to Air HQ India. He served in South East Asia and returned to the UK in June 1946. Munro retired from the RAF on February 21 1949 because of ill-health, as a Wing Commander, retaining the rank of Group Captain. He died on January 23 1951. PO (RAFO)19.3.34 WC 1.10.46

PO 29.9.34

FO 29.3.35 FL 29.3.37

SL 1.4.39

34168

PO

Pilot

British

WC 1.6.41

He was educated at Plymouth College, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on February 6 1939, as a pupil pilot at 11 E&RFTS, Perth. Murch went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on April 15 for a short disciplinary course, moving to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on the 29th. With the course completed, Murch joined the newlyreformed 253 Squadron at Manston on November 6 1939. He went to France, when ‘A’ Flight was detached to Poix on May 16 1940. Murch is believed to have been wounded in operations there. The flight had heavy losses and was withdrawn on the 21st. The whole of 253 then went to Kirton-in-Lindsey to re-form. It went south again, to Kenley, on August 29. On September 7 Murch destroyed a He 111. During a squadron sortie on the 9th he crashed into a wood at Nonnington, in Hurricane P 3610, and escaped unhurt. He damaged a Ju 88 on the 14th and shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on October 6. He was shot down in combat over Tunbridge Wells on October 11, baled out of Hurricane V 6570, injured, and was admitted to the Kent and Sussex Hospital, Tunbridge Wells, with a broken arm and minor injuries. He was posted as non-effective sick In early July 1941 Murch joined 185 Squadron in Malta. He went to the Middle East in 1942 and in 1943 was serving with 680 Squadron, a photographic-reconnaissance unit. Murch died on September 16 1943 in the RAF Hospital, Benghazi, after contracting poliomyelitis. He is buried in Benghazi War Cemetery, Libya. APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41

WILLIAM JOHN MURLAND Sgt

Air Gunner

New Zealander

46, 501 and 73 Squadrons

In late 1935 Murray went to Leuchars for catapult training, then Calshot for floatplane training and finally Gosport for deck-landing and torpedo training. He was detached to HMS Malaya in the Mediterranean, to be on Swordfish catapult duty. On May 30 1936 Murray was posted to 812 (Fleet Torpedo-Bomber) Squadron, based at Hal Far, Malta and on HMS Glorious. In early 1939 he went to the A&AEE, Martlesham Heath. The Establishment moved to Boscombe Down on September 5 1939. Murray did a refresher course and converted to Hurricanes at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge in early June 1940 and was detached from there to RAF Wittering on June 12, for Ops Room duties. He joined 46 Squadron at Digby on the 18th, as OC `B’ Flight. He returned to Boscombe Down on July 22, for flying duties. He was attached to 501 Squadron at Kenley, from September 16 to 25, to gain operational experience. Whilst with 501, Murray flew six operational sorties, four on the 18th and two on the 20th. He then joined 73 Squadron at Castle Camps on September 26 and assumed command on the 27th. Murray took the squadron from Debden to Birkenhead, for service in the Middle East on November 9. After arriving, the pilots began operating in the Western Desert in December, attached to 274 Squadron. On January 1 1941 the squadron began operating as a unit and on the 3rd Murray shared in destroying eight enemy aircraft on a landing ground. On the 21st he shot down a Fiat G50 over Tobruk, on February 1 destroyed a Caproni Ghibli on Apollonia airfield, on the 5th shared in destroying eight enemy bombers on the ground at Benina and on the 20th damaged a Ju 88, whilst flying with 3 (RAAF) Squadron. Murray was awarded the DFC (28.3.41) and in April was posted to Cairo, as Controller at Heliopolis. He later had the job of locating possible new airfields in the Desert, then went to Group HQ, Cairo and was afterwards posted to command the Fighter Sector at Abadan, Iran. Murray returned to the UK in March 1944 and took command of a unit at Hurn, servicing fighters for France. He later moved with it to Tangmere. From September 1944 until September 1945 Murray commanded RAF Manston, as an Acting Group Captain. He retired from the RAF on January 15 1958, as a Wing Commander, retaining the rank of Group Captain. Murray died in March 2001.

253 Squadron

Murch, of Plymstock, Devon, was born on February 19 1921 at Plymouth, the son of a veterinary surgeon.

391867

British

Born on July 10 1915, Murray joined the RAF on a short service commission in January 1934. He was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham on April 3 and with training completed, he joined 18 Squadron at Upper Heyford on March 4 1935, flying Hawker Hart light bombers.

LEONARD CHARLES MURCH 41946

SL Pilot

264 Squadron

Born in New Plymouth on November 14 1917, Murland went farming after leaving school and later became a carpenter. In October 1939 he volunteered for aircrew duties and went to the Ground Training School at Weraroa on December 18. He moved to the Air Observers’ School, Ohakea in mid-January 1940 for a Lewis gunnery course and air experience and then sailed for the UK on March 23 in the SS Akaroa.

APO 16.3.34 PO 16.3.35 FO 16.9.36 FL 16.9.38 SL 1.9.40 WC 1.12.41 WC 1.7.47

JAMES MURRAY 519400

Sgt

Pilot

British

610 and 74 Squadrons

Murray joined the RAF in March 1935, as an Aircrafthand. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. With training completed, he arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940. After he had converted to Spitfires, he joined 610 Squadron at Acklington on September 16.

Murland arrived in the UK on May 9 1940 and went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting. He joined 264 Squadron at Duxford on June 3 and continued training. Before being posted away to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 27, he must have flown at least one authorised operational sortie after July 10, to qualify for the clasp. Murland was awarded his air gunner’s badge and promoted to Sergeant at Aston Down. On November 4 1940 he joined 75 Squadron, operating in Wellingtons from Feltwell. He moved to 214 Squadron at Stradishall on February 6 1941 and a month later he was posted to 148 Squadron at Luqa, Malta. The squadron moved soon afterwards to Kabrit, Egypt. Murland left 148 for the Middle East Pool on September 10 1941 and returned to the UK on November 16. He was posted to 1622 Flight at Gosport on March 23 1942, on antiaircraft co operation duties. He joined 140 Squadron on March 15 1943, a photographicreconnaissance unit with Blenheims. He was promoted to Warrant Officer on April 1. On October 31 Murland went to 13 OTU, to convert to Mitchells. He then joined 98 Squadron at Dunsfold on December 14. In early May 1944 Murland was posted away for repatriation to New Zealand. He was recommended for a Medical Discharge and went on to the Reserve on November 3 1944. Soon afterwards he lost a leg in a railway accident, a loss he had great difficilty in accepting. After moving down to Wellington, Murland worked mainly on building construction sites until his health failed, resulting in his spending several years in hospital. He died in Porirua Hospital on November 15 1978 and he is buried in the Whenua Tapu Cemetery.

Murray moved to 74 Squadron at Biggin Hill on October 28. He destroyed a Bf 109 and shared another on December 5 1940. Murray was killed in the Middle East on April 3 1943, serving as a Warrant Officer with the Aden Communications Flight. With no known grave, Murray is remembered on the Alamein Memorial, Column 269.

PATRICK HATTON MURRAY 968359

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

23 Squadron

Murray, of Hartley, Plymouth, joined the RAFVR in September 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. With training completed, he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down and joined 23 Squadron at Collyweston on July 9 1940. He was still with the squadron in November 1940. He was killed on December 8 1942, as a Flight Sergeant with 149 Squadron, operating from Lakenheath. His aircraft, Stirling BF 391, failed to return to return from a mine-laying operation in the Fehmarn Channel, NE of Kiel. It crashed at Dobersdorf. Murray was 24. He is buried in Kiel War Cemetery, Germany.

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THOMAS BURNLEY MURRAY 90991

PO

Pilot

British

allocation to a squadron overseas. It would seem that he went to France but returned without having joined a squadron. Murray was posted to 79 Squadron at Biggin Hill on May 24. He rejoined 616 Squadron at Leconfield on July 7 1940. On August 15 he claimed two Ju 88s destroyed E of Flamborough Head. Murray was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He was awarded the AFC (13.6.46). He died in 1984.

616 Squadron

Murray was commissioned in 616 Squadron, AAF in July 1939. Called up on August 24, he was posted for further training. He completed No 42 course at 2 FTS, Brize Norton and rejoined 616 at Leconfield on April 6 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on April 28.

APO (AAF) 19.7.39 PO 3.12.39 FO 3.12.40 FL 3.12.41

He converted to Hurricanes and was then posted to 2 PDC, Uxbridge on May 15 for

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N KENNETH EDWARD NAISH 45447

Sgt

Pilot

British

235

HAROLD THOMAS NAUGHTIN Squadron

754002

Sgt

Pilot

Naish entered the RAF on January 6 1936, as a pupil pilot. Having successfully completed his ab initio course, he was formally enlisted on March 2 1936, as an Airman u/t Pilot (580161). No details are known of Naish’s pre war service.

THOMAS FRANCIS NEIL 79168

Polish

PO

Pilot

British

249 Squadron

Neil was born in Bootle on July 14 1920. He joined the RAFVR on October 17 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot and began his training at 17 E&RFTS, Barton, Manchester. Called up on September 2 1939, Neil went to 4 ITW, Bexhill in early November. On December 1 he was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose and on completion of the course, he was commissioned and joined 249 Squadron on May 15 1940 at its reformation at Church Fenton. Flying from North Weald on September 7, Neil claimed a Bf 109 destroyed, on the 11th a He 111 destroyed, on the 15th two Bf 109s and a Do 17 destroyed, another Do 17 shared and a He 111 probably destroyed., on the 18th a He 111 damaged and on the 27th a Bf 110 and a Ju 88 destroyed, a Bf 110 probably destroyed and a Ju 88 shared. On October 6 Neil shared a Do 17, on the 25th claimed a Bf 109 destroyed, on the 27th a Do 17 probably destroyed, on the 28th a Ju 88 shared and on November 7 a Ju 87 and two Bf 109s destroyed. On this day Neil collided with Wing Commander F V Beamish during a patrol and lost his tail. He baled out of Hurricane V 7676, unhurt. Neil was awarded the DFC (8.10.40) and a Bar (26.11.40) and he was made ‘B’ Flight Commander on December 13 1940, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. In May 1941 249 went to Malta. The squadron flew off Ark Royal on the 21st, Neil leading the second group of Hurricanes. After a series of mishaps and misadventures, they all reached Malta safely. On June 12 1941 Neil destroyed a Mc 200. He left Malta on December 26 1941 and returned to the UK, via the Middle East, South Africa, West Africa and Canada, finally arriving at Liverpool in early March 1942. Neil was posted to 81 Group, as Tactics Officer. He went to 56 OTU in mid-June and on September 1 1942 he took command of 41 Squadron at Llanbedr. In July 1943 he was posted to 53 OTU, Kirton-in-Lindsey, as an instructor. He later went to the 9th US Air Force, as Flying Liaison Officer with the 100th Fighter Wing. After D Day Neil did some operational flying in France, as a supernumerary. In January 1945 he was posted to the School of Land/Air Warfare at Old Sarum, instructing and lecturing. Neil went to Burma in March 1945, investigating. Whilst there, he flew some operational sorties with No 1 Indian Wing.

ALEKSANDER RYSZARD NARUCKI Pilot

Squadron

After converting to Blenheims, he joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on August 5. Naughtin was killed on May 28 1941, aged 21 and as a Flight Sergeant with 235 Squadron. He was in Blenheim V 5453 which was shot down off Texel by enemy fighters. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 37.

PO 19.2.41 FO 19.2.42 FL 1.11.42 FO 7.12.46

PO

235

Naughtin joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 7 1940.

He joined 235 Squadron at Detling in June 1940 and later went to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth. After further training, he rejoined 235, then at Bircham Newton, on July 28. Over Thorney Island on August 24 his Blenheim, Z 5736, was attacked by Hurricanes of No 1 (RCAF) Squadron and badly damaged. He crashed on landing but, luckily, he and his gunner, Sergeant H Owen, were unhurt. Commissioned in February 1941, Naish was posted away from 235 in July. He was awarded the DFC (19.5.44), as a Flight Lieutenant with 236 Squadron at North Coates. In April 1944 he had taken part in an attack on a convoy off the Dutch coast. His aircraft was hit by flak and one engine set alight but he pressed home his attack. Whilst putting out the flames, he was heavily engaged by ship and shore flak batteries. Naish got back to base and made a successful crash-landing. He was released in 1945 as a Squadron Leader. He rejoined the RAF in 1946 and served for some years in the Fighter Control Branch. He died on November 17 2007.

P 0146

British

615 and 607 Squadrons

Narucki was born on January 1 1916. He arrived in England from France on July 16 1940 and went to the Polish Wing, 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. On August 28 he moved to the RAF Polish Depot and from there went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum on September 5, for the 6th Polish Pilots’ Course, for testing and grading. Narucki arrived at 5 OTU on September 18 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick on October 4 1940. He was posted to 607 Squadron at Turnhouse on October 9. Narucki joined 302 Squadron at Northolt on November 13. He was commissioned in March 1941. Narucki was killed on May 11 1941, when he abandoned Hurricane Z 3435 of 302 Squadron, after it was damaged by a Bf 109 during a training flight. Narucki is buried in Northwood Cemetery. PO 1.3.41

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another He 111 into the sea, following it down until it struck the water. Two of the crew baled out and seconds before it hit the water, a Hurricane appeared and made a pass at the stricken Heinkel. Consequent to this Nelson-Edwards was only credited with one share. On the same sortie he also shared in the probable destruction of a second He 111. On September 29 79 intercepted a formation of He 111s near the Irish coast off Cork. Nelson-Edwards attacked one, setting both engines on fire, causing the bomb load to be jettisoned and one of the crew to bale out. He was then shot down himself by return fire, baled out and was picked up by the SS Dartford and landed at Milford Haven, unhurt. Before he rejoined the Squadron, all claims had already been submitted to HQ 10 Group. Nelson-Edwards was posted to 504 Squadron at Fairwood Common on July 27 1941, as a Flight Commander. Tour-expired, he went to 52 OTU, Aston Down as a Flight Commander Instructor. A return to operations came on June 3 1942, when Nelson-Edwards was given command of 93 Squadron, then re-forming at Andreas. On October 20 it went overseas, to take part in the Anglo-American invasion of North Africa, and he landed at Algiers on November 13 1942. Nelson-Edwards damaged two FW 190s on the 25th, shared a Ju 88 on the 26th, damaged a Bf 109 on December 2, destroyed a Ju 88 on the 4th and damaged Bf 109s on the 5th, 20th and January 5 1943. He was awarded the DFC (26.2.43). He was posted away to Combined Operations HQ on March 12 1943, as an Air Planner. On June 2 Nelson-Edwards was sent on a course at the Army Staff College at Camberley. Afterwards he did a Mustang conversion course at 41 OTU, Hawarden and on December 20 1943 he took command of 231 Squadron at Redhill. The unit was disbanded on February 2 1944. Nelson-Edwards was promoted to Acting Wing Commander and appointed RAF Fighter Operations Liaison Officer at HQ 9th USAF North-West Europe and remained there until the end of the war. About this time he bought a public house, the Trewen Arms in South Wales, and after his release in January 1946 he ran it as a pub/restaurant and also a hotel. In November 1946 Nelson-Edwards rejoined the RAF on an extended service commission. After a course at No 1 Flying Refresher School, he went to CFS, Little Rissington, for an instructor’s course. He was retained at CFS, as CGI. He was later posted to the Organisation Directorate at the Air Ministry, remaining there until August 1951, soon after which he went to HQ 2nd TAF, as Wing Commander Organisation. In April 1952, after a Vampire Refresher Course at Chivenor, he was appointed Wing Commander Flying at Oldenburg, Germany, leading 124 Fighter/Ground Attack Wing. In 1953 Nelson-Edwards was at West Raynham, on a Day Fighter Leaders’ Course. He led a Wing from there in June on the Coronation Review Flypast. He held a series of appointments in the years before retiring from the RAF on September 30 1960 as a Wing Commander. He bought a second public house, the Swan Inn and ran both until his retirement in 1983. He later moved to Cyprus and he died there on September 21 1994.

Neil returned to Old Sarum in April, leaving there in January 1946, to go on an Empire Test Pilots’ course at Cranfield. Neil was awarded the Bronze Star (US) (2.8.49) and the AFC (2.1.56). He retired from the RAF in 1964 as a Wing Commander. PO 12.5.40 FO 3.3.41 FL 3.3.42 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.1.51

DICK NELSON 47651

F/Sgt

Pilot

British

235 Squadron

Born on January 16 1915, Nelson went to Elswick Road Central School, West Hartlepool. He joined the RAF in January 1931, as an Aircraft Apprentice (565177) and passed out in December 1933, as a Metal Rigger. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. With training completed, Nelson was with 2 Ferry Pilot Pool in July 1939. He was still with the unit, when it was redesignated 4 (C) Ferry Pilot Pool on April 28 1940. Nelson was on 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton by June 20 1940. He served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. His flight was posted away to RAF Aldergrove on November 19 1940 and there it combined with a flight from 236 Squadron, to reform 272 Squadron on the 21st. Nelson flew his first sortie with 272 on the 24th. Commissioned in January 1942, he transferred to the Technical Branch in 1945 and he retired from the RAF on February 26 1967 as a Wing Commander. Nelson died on June 26 1972. PO 5.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 5.1.44 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.7.51 WC 1.1.57

WILLIAM HENRY NELSON 39675

FO

Pilot

Canadian

74 Squadron

Nelson was born in Montreal on April 2 1917. He was educated at the King Edward VII School and Baron Byng High School there and at Strathcona Academy High School at Outremont. Nelson joined the RAF on a short service commission and he began his ab initio course on March 8 1937. He was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose on May 9 and with the course completed, he joined 10 Squadron at Dishforth on November 27 1937. The squadron’s first operational sortie in the war was made on the night of September 8/9 1939, when eight of its Whitleys dropped leaflets and made a reconnaissance of North-West Germany. Nelson took part. He was awarded the DFC (4.6.40) for his services with the squadron. Nelson volunteered for Fighter Command and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 24 1940. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on July 20. He claimed a Bf 109 and a Bf 110 destroyed and another Bf 110 damaged on August 11, a Do 17 damaged on the 13th and Bf 109s destroyed on October 17, 27 and 29. He was killed on November 1 1940, shot down in a surprise attack by Bf 109s over Dover and is believed to have crashed into the Channel, in Spitfire P 7312. Nelson was 23 years old. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 4.

PO 26.9.39 FO 26.9.40 FL 26.9.41 SL 7.6.44 SL 1.9.45 WC 1.7.53

ARTHUR DEANE NESBITT C 1327

Pilot

British

Canadian

1 (RCAF) Squadron

Nesbitt joined the RCAF on September 15 1939, served with 115 (RCAF) Squadron, was awarded his wings on April 11 1940 and he was with No 1 (RCAF) Squadron when it arrived in the UK on June 20. Nesbitt was detached to RAF Uxbridge on July 10, for a short R/T procedure course. He damaged a Do 17 on August 26, claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on September 4 and a Bf 109 on the 15th. On this day Nesbitt was attacked by Bf 109s and shot down over Tunbridge Wells, in Hurricane P 3080. He baled out, wounded, and was admitted to hospital. On landing he had to convince farm workers armed with pitchforks that he was not German. He spent time at the Canadian Red Cross Memorial Hospital on the Cliveden estate, Buckinghamshire. On recovery from his wounds he rejoined No 1 (RCAF). Back in action on October 7, Nesbitt’s Hurricane, P 2993, was badly damaged in combat with a Bf 109. He landed at Biggin Hill, unhurt. In March 1941 Nesbitt took command of the squadron, now re-numbered 401 (RCAF), and led it until September. Nesbitt was awarded the DFC (23.9.41). Nesbitt returned to Canada and commanded 14 (RCAF) Squadron and from December 1941 111 (RCAF) Squadron. On June 15 1942 he was promoted to Wing Commander and appointed CO of the RCAF station at Annette Island, moving in October to command RCAF Boundary Bay and then from December 30 1943 CO at 6 SFTS, Dunville. In March 1944 Nesbitt retuned to the UK, where he was given command of 144 Wing, Spitfire IXs, and commanded it until July 12 1944, when he became Accidents Investigation Officer at 83 Group.

GEORGE HASSALL NELSON-EDWARDS FO

Pilot

Nesbitt was born in Montreal on November 16 1910, the son of a stockbroker. He attended King’s School and Westmount High. He graduated from McGill University in 1933, his degree being in electrical engineering. In the same year he went to work for his father’s firm and also joined the Montreal Light Aeroplane Club. In 1936 he won the James Lytell Memorial Trophy for the Club’s most competent pilot.

APO 9.5.37 PO 8.3.38 FO 8.9.39

74355

FO

79 Squadron

Born in Stafford on March 8 1918, Nelson-Edwards was educated at Shrewsbury School and Brasenose College, Oxford, where he read History. He learned to fly with the University Air Squadron at Abingdon and was called to fulltime service in September 1939. Nelson-Edwards was posted to No 1 ITW, Cambridge, later moved to 3 ITW, Hastings and on March 6 1940 he went to RAF College FTS, Cranwell on No 2 War Course. With training completed, Nelson-Edwards was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 22 1940 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 79 Squadron at Acklington on July 20. He shared in the destruction of a He 111 on August 9, which went into the sea off Sunderland. On the 15th, over the North Sea, Nelson-Edwards saw a Bf 110 coming head-on at 2,000 yards. Before he could press his gun button, it blew up and was apparently never claimed by any pilot. On the 28th Nelson-Edwards shared in the probable destruction of a He 59, with Pilot Officer B R Noble and others and also he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and a He 111, on the 31st he damaged a Bf 109, on September 6 he probably destroyed a Ju 88, and on the 27th he shot down

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On July 12 Newling shared in probably destroying a Ju 88 and shared in damaging three Bf 110s and on the 19th he shared in destroying a He 111. In this action, his Hurricane, P 2770, was hit in the glycol tank and hydraulic system by return fire. Newling made a forced-landing at Shoreham aerodrome, concussed, and was admitted to Shoreham Hospital. Newling was apparently not badly concussed and he was flying again on the 21st, twice, from Tangmere to Church Fenton and from Church Fenton to Drem. He was noneffective sick until August 20, when he rejoined 145 Squadron. On October 12 Newling probably destroyed a Bf 109. He wrote off Hurricane V 6856 on the 18th, when he overshot the runway, landing at Tangmere. He hit a stationary aircraft but escaped unhurt. He was made OC ‘A’ Flight on November 11 1940. Newling was awarded the DFC (4.2.41). He shared a Ju 88 on March 1 1941. He was killed on July 6 1941, still with 145, shot down in a Circus operation over the Lille area in Spitfire W 3366. Newling is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 29.

Nesbitt was promoted to Group Captain on January 1 1945 and he commanded 143 Wing, Typhoons, until September, when he was repatriated to Canada, retiring from the service on November 27 1945 as a Wing Commander. He was made an OBE (1.1.46), created a Commander of the Order of Orange-Nassau, with swords, and awarded the C de G (Fr) and the Silver Star (US). Nesbitt returned to his pre-war employment and headed the firm for 25 years. On February 4 1978 he suffered a skiing accident at Mont St-Sauveur, north of Montreal, which left him totally paralysed. He died on February 22 from his injuries.

WILLIAM JOHN NEVILLE 741783

Sgt

Pilot

British

610 Squadron

Neville, came from Shepperton, Middlesex. He joined the RAFVR about July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 11 FTS, Shawbury on No 18 Course, which ran from January 31 to June 29 1940. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 7, converted to Spitfires and joined 610 Squadron at Biggin Hill on July 27 1940. Neville made a forced-landing at Potmans Heath Marsh, Wittersham on August 8, in Spitfire L 1045. The aircraft overturned but Neville was unhurt. Three days later Neville was reported ‘Missing’, following a patrol off Calais, in Spitfire R 6603. He was 26 and he is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 17.

APO 1.4.39 PO 23.10.39 FO 23.10.40

DOUGLAS VICTOR NEWPORT 615682

FO

Pilot British

Air Gunner

British

235 Squadron

Newport joined the RAF in July 1938, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and with training completed, he was with 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton in early July 1940.

JOHN CHARLES NEWBERY 70497

Sgt

He was posted, with his flight, to RAF Aldergrove on November 19 1940, where it combined with a flight from 236 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron on the 21st. Newport’s first sortie with 272 was on the 23rd On December 21 1940 Newport baled out over Ireland, unhurt. It is not clear if he was interned or if he managed to get to Northern Ireland. If he was interned at the Curragh Military Camp, he could well have been one of the successful escapees from there on June 26 1941. No other service details traced. He died in 1969.

609 Squadron

Newbery was educated at Tottenham Grammar School and Pembroke College, Cambridge, where he read Natural Sciences. He was a member of the University Air Squadron from 1934 and was commissioned in Class ‘AA’ of the RAFO in December 1936. Called up on September 25 1939, Newbery completed his training at RAF College FTS, Cranwell on No 6 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 9 1940. With the course completed, he went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum for No 7 Course, which ran from May 20 to June 22 1940. Newbery arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 23 1940. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 609 Squadron at Middle Wallop on July 8. On the 12th he probably destroyed a Ju 88 and on the 15th he probably destroyed two more. Following a combat on September 25, Newbery pulled out of a power dive in such a way as to strain the Spitfire’s wings, pulling his seat off its fixings and sending him to hospital, with severe internal injures. He did not fly his next sortie until November 1 1940. He was posted to 2 CFS, Cranwell on December 29 1940, probably for an instructor’s course. Newbery was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Wing Commander.

EDWIN FRANK NEWTON 614682

AC 2

Radar Operator

British

29 Squadrons

Newton joined the RAF in July 1938, as an Aircrafthand. With a radar course completed, he joined 29 Squadron at Digby on June 20 1940.

PO (RAFO) 22.12.36 FO (RAFO) 1.9.38 FO 25.9.39 FL15.5.41 SL 1.7.44

His service with the squadron was somewhat fragmented. He was with it from June 20 to October 26 1940, from October 30 1940 to February 28 1941, from March 29 to July 20 1941 and September 18 to November 21 1942. During the Battle of Britain period Newton flew only one sortie, on September 18 1940. He was promoted to AC 1 on December 31 1940, to LAC on December 31 1941 and to Corporal on December 31 1944. No other service details traced.

EDWARD ARNOLD NEWHAM

HARRY SNOW NEWTON

159832

134750

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

235 Squadron

Newham joined the RAFVR in September 1939, probably as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (902068). He completed his training and joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on September 23 1940. He flew his first sortie on September 26 and his last on October 14 1940.

FO

PO 13.1.44

Pilot

British

111 Squadron

In April 1939 he joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745615) and began flying at 27 E&RFTS, Tollerton. Called to full-time service on September 1 1939, Newton was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose for No 15 Course,which ran from December 10 1939 to May 10 1940. With training completed, he arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 18, he converted to Hurricanes and he joined 111 Squadron at Croydon on May 25 1940. On August 11 Newton made a crash-landing on the marshes near Boyton, near Martlesham Heath, in Hurricane P 3548, out of fuel after combat over Thanet. On the 16th and the 18th Newton destroyed Do 17s. On this latter day, during a lowlevel attack on Kenley, Newton’s Hurricane, P 3943, was set alight by return fire and he baled out over Botley Hill Farm, Tatsfield, with burns. He rejoined the squadron on October 10 1940. In February 1941 Newton was posted to the Air Navigation School at Staverton, as a staff pilot. He moved to 8 B&GS, Jurby in April, on similar duties. Commissioned from Flight Sergeant in August 1942, he later flew as a staff pilot at 11 Air Gunners’ School, Andreas, Isle of Man. He was awarded the AFC (1.9.44) and released from the RAF in June 1946 as a Flight

MICHAEL ALAN NEWLING 41867

Pilot British

Newton was born on July 13 1920. He joined 504 Squadron, AAF and was an AC 2 photographer.

He was commissioned in the Administrative Branch in November 1943 and released from the RAF in 1944, as a Flying Officer. Newham died on February 14 1976. APO 18.11.43

Sgt

145 Squadron

Newling joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on January 23 1939 at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield. He carried out his intermediate and advanced flying training at 11 FTS, Shawbury on No 12 Course, which ran from April 15 to October 23 1939. With training completed, he joined the reformed 145 Squadron at Croydon on October 23. After probably destroying a He 111 on May 18 1940, Newling was shot down E of Brussels. He baled out and rejoined his squadron two days later. Over Dunkirk on May 31, he shared in the destruction of a Bf 109 and on June 1 destroyed a Bf 110.

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Squadron Leader Tactics. He returned to the UK in October 1945 and was released from the RAF in March 1946 as a Squadron Leader. Nicholls rejoined the RAFVR in May 1949. He became a teacher in the UK and Africa On November 11 2011 he was present when a plaque on which he was honoured was unveiled at St James’ School. Nicholls died on December 6 2014.

Lieutenant. He rejoined later the same year and retired on July 13 1975 as a Squadron Leader. Over a long flying career Newton logged 10,000 hours. He died on June 30 1996. PO 30.8.42 FO 2.3.43 FL 30.8.44 FL 5.11.46 SL 1.1.67

PO 17.12.41 FO 24.10.42 FL 17.12.43 FO (RAFVR) 4.5.49

JOHN BEVILLE HOWARD NICHOLAS 39798

FO

Pilot

British

65 Squadron

THOMAS GEORGE FRANK NICHOLLS 532244

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his flying training at 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick on April 5 1937, as a pupil pilot.

23 Squadron

DENNIS HUGH NICHOLS 118094

Sgt

Pilot

British

56 Squadron

Nichols joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754158) and had carried out some elementary flying training at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell before being called up to full-time service in September 1939. After a spell at 3 ITW, Hastings, Nichols completed his ab initio course at 5 EFTS, Hanworth and then moved on to 8 FTS, Montrose for No 20 Course, which ran from June 10 to August 31 1940. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 1 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, Nichols joined 56 Squadron at Boscombe Down on September 15. He was shot down in combat with enemy aircraft S of Yeovil on October 7, in Hurricane P 3154. Nichols baled out but his parachute failed to open fully and he broke his back in a heavy landing. He left hospital in 1941 and was posted to 286 Squadron, an anti-aircraft cooperation unit. Commissioned in March 1942, Nichols eventually regained his operational category and went to 54 OTU, Charter Hall in 1943, for night-fighting training. He joined 255 Squadron in North Africa and later went with it to Sicily and Italy. In 1945 Nichols was seconded to BOAC. After release from the RAF in 1946 he joined BEA. He died on August 23 2001

DOUGLAS BENJAMIN FLETCHER NICHOLLS British

British

He was killed on April 10 1941, still with 23. He was in Blenheim L 8616, which was shot down by flak on an intruder sortie. Nicholls was 26 and he is buried in Ennetieres Communal Cemetery, France.

APO 31.5.37 PO 5.4.38 FO 5.11.40 FL 3.1.41 SL 1.7.45 FL 1.12.42

Sgt Pilot

Air Gunner

Nicholls, of Upper Tooting, London, joined the RAF about May 1936 as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner, completed his training and was with 23 Squadron in the Battle of Britain.

Nicholas went to 6 FTS, Netheravon on May 30 and with training conpleted, he joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on December 31 1937. Over Dunkirk on May 26 1940, Nicholas destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged a Bf 109 and a Bf 110. During the Battle of Britain he damaged a Do 17 on July 24 and shared in probably destroyng a Bf 109 on August 14. Nicholas was posted away to 2 CFS, Cranwell on December 9 1940, for an instructor’s course, after which he went to 9 EFTS, Ansty, as a Flight Commander. On April 14 1943 he was posted to Cranwell for a refresher course, went to 61 OTU, Rednal on June 15 and moved to 2 TEU, Grangemouth on October 8. Nicholas was posted to Australia in 1944. After a month at 2 OTU, Mildura, he took command of 54 Squadron at Darwin in June. He led the squadron until its disbandment on October 31 1945. Nicholas returned to the UK in November and on February 5 1946 he went to a staff job at HQ 11 Group. He stayed in the RAF on an Extended Service Commission and resigned in July 1949 as a Flight Lieutenant. Nicholas died in 1993.

114121

Sgt

85, 242 and 151 Squadrons

Nicholls was born near Swansea on February 5 1919. He went to South Parade School and St James’ School, both in Grimsby. He studied to be a teacher of English and Maths in Coventry but was working for an insurance company before the war.

PO 10.3.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 10.3.44

Nicholls joined the RAFVR in September 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741986). Called to full-time service at the outbreak of war, he completed his elementary flying training at 6 EFTS, Sywell. He then moved on to 8 FTS, Montrose for No 19 Course, from May 6 to August 16 1940. Nicholls arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 17th but moved to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 19. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 85 Squadron at Castle Camps on September 4. He moved to 242 Squadron at Coltishall on the 11th and he finally joined 151 Squadron at Digby on September 21. He made his first flight with 151 on the 22nd, formation practice. On the 30th he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 and returned to Digby with his Hurricane, P 5182, severely damaged by return fire. In August 1941 Nicholls was posted to 258 Squadron at Martlesham Heath. The squadron flew to Debden on October 3, to prepare for overseas. Leaving their Hurricanes behind, the twenty-two pilots went to Abbotsinch on the 30th and two days later sailed in HMS Athene for Gibraltar, with wing-detached Hurricanes on board. After arriving on the 21st, the aircraft were to be unloaded, to be taken by HMS Ark Royal to Malta later. However, the carrier was sunk returning to Gibraltar, so other plans were made. The 258 pilots left on Christmas Eve 1941, on the Athene. They berthed at Takoradi on January 1 1942, disembarked, and the Athene left, taking their Hurricanes with her. On the 3rd they flew on the ferry route to the Middle East in a DC3, arrived at Port Sudan, from where they sailed in HMS Indomitable on the 9th, with Hurricanes aboard. They flew off on the 28th and later in the morning arrived at Airfield P2 at Palembang, Sumatra. In the afternoon they went on to Seletar airfield, Singapore and flew their first operation on January 31. On February 10 1942 the three surviving Hurricanes of 258 were withdrawn to Palembang. Of the fifteen surviving pilots, six were required to remain behind, to fly with a reformed 605 Squadron. One was nominated, two volunteered and the other three were selected by cutting cards. Nicholls was one of the nine evacuated from Java to Ceylon in the SS Kota Gede. 258 Squadron was reformed at Ratmalana on March 1 1942. Nicholls rejoined it on March 7. Commissioned in December 1941, Nicholls was awarded the DFC (19.5.44) and remained with 258 until August 1944, when he was posted to HQ 224 Group, Burma, as

JAMES BRINDLEY ERIC NICOLSON 39329

FL

Pilot British

249 Squadron Born in Hampstead on April 29 1917, Nicolson went to Tonbridge School from 1930 to 1934. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his elementary flying training at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham on October 12 1936.

Nicolson was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on January 16 1937 and with the course completed, he joined 72 Squadron at Church Fenton on August 7 1937. He went to 249 Squadron, then reforming at Church Fenton, on May 16 1940. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on June 1 and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant. Nicolson was detached from 249 to AFDU, Northolt from June 5 to 14, for an Air Fighting Instructors’ Course. On August 16 1940 Nicolson was shot down in a surprise attack by Bf 109s over Southampton. Wounded in the left foot and with a perspex splinter through his left eyelid, Nicolson prepared to abandon his burning Hurricane, P 3576. As he did so, a Bf 110 appeared in front of him. Nicolson slid back into his seat and fired at the enemy fighter. His cockpit was now a mass of flames and he was being burned but he continued firing until it became impossible to remain and he baled out, at 12,000 feet. Nicolson’s hands were severely burned, parts of his face also, his eyelid was all but severed and his wounded foot was becoming ever more painful. Near the ground he was fired on by Home Guard and wounded in the buttock. Nicolson was taken to Southampton Hospital and three weeks later moved to the RAF Hospital, Halton. In early November he was convalescing at Torquay. He was awarded the VC (15.11.40), Fighter Command’s only one, Nicolson was decorated by the King at Buckingham Palace on November 25. He was posted to 54 OTU on February 24 1941, as an instructor. He regained his operational catergory and on September 22 1941 he was given command of 1459 Flight at Hibaldstow, a Turbinlite Havoc unit. Nicolson was posted to India in early 1942 and on March 17 he began a staff job at HQ 293 Wing, Alipore, moving later to Air HQ, Bengal.

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On August 15 1940, in the Scarborough area, he damaged a Ju 88. Commissioned in October, he was killed on December 17 1940. His Beaufighter, R 2096. spun in and crashed at Smiths Green Farm during a landing approach to Debden. His radar operator, Sergeant G M Leslie, was also killed. Nightingale was 26. He is buried in Saffron Walden Cemetery, Essex.

On August 4 1943 Nicolson was given command of 27 Squadron, operating in Mosquitos from Agartala, Burma. He was posted away to HQ 3rd TAF, Comilla, Bengal on August 11 1944 and awarded the DFC (11.8.44), as a Wing Commander. In April 1945 Nicolson was on the staff of HQ RAF Burma. On May 2 he went on a bombing sortie in a Liberator of 355 Squadron, as an observer. After taking off from Salbani, the aircraft was 130 miles S of Calcutta, when one engine caught fire. The Liberator crashed into the sea and there were only two NCO survivors. Nicholson is remembered on the Singapore Memorial, Column 445 and on a memorial plaque at Tonbridge School, which was unveiled on November 26 2003

PO 10.10.40

APO 21.12.36 PO 12.10.37 FO 12.5.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

PETER BETHUNE NICOLSON 740866

Sgt

Pilot

British

3 and 232 Squadrons

HUGH GLEN NIVEN 91226

Nicholson, of Glasgow, joined the RAFVR about November 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 3 1940.

Pilot

Polish

601 and 602 Squadrons

Niven joined 602 Squadron, AAF at Abbotsinch on May 7 1939 and began his training in Avro Tutors. Called to full-time service at the outbreak of war, Niven was posted to 11 EFTS, Perth on October 25 1939. Niven arrived at 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on March 23 1940 and with the course completed and being commissioned, he moved to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 17, to convert to Hurricanes. Niven rejoined 602 Squadron, then at Westhampnett, on September 2 1940 but having had no Spitfire experience, he was posted to 601 Squadron at Tangmere three days later. After much complaining, he rejoined 602 Squadron on September 21. His Spitfire, X 4603, was damaged in combat with Bf 109s over Maidstone on October 29. Niven went to 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on July 26 1941 but he rejoined 602 on August 3. He remained with 602 until September 23 1941. He was admitted to Horton Emergency Hospital on the 24th, suffering from tuberculosis. He was invalided out of the RAF on March 12 1942 as a Flying Officer. When 602 Squadron was reformed in June 1946, Niven rejoined as a civilian clerk. He died on April 8 2008.

PAWEL NIEMIEC PO

Pilot Canadian

Born in Toronto on September 23 1919, Niven was the son of a Canadian father and a Scottish mother. He went to Shawnigan Lake School. The family moved to Scotland in June 1937.

After converting to Hurricanes, Nicholson joined 3 Squadron at Wick about June 23 1940. He was posted to Sumburgh when ‘B’ Flight of 3 Squadron was redesignated 232 Squadron on July 21. He was still on 232 on November 4 1940. Nicolson was later with 274 Squadron in the Western Desert and took part in operations over Crete. On April 27 1941 he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88, with another 274 pilot named Weller, after which they both landed on Crete. Nicolson was able to take off next morning but Weller was stranded there, with his Hurricane damaged by his landing on a badly-pitted runway. Nicolson was killed over Crete on May 29 1941, as a Flight Sergeant with 274 Squadron. He was carrying out a sortie over central Crete, in Hurricane Z 4634, to drop a message, with orders for the British garrison at Rethymno to withdraw to the south. Nicholson is remembered on the Alamein Memorial, Column 242.

76748

PO

17 Squadron

Born in Cieszyn on November 25 1913, Niemiec joined the PAF in 1933. After arriving in England in late 1939 he was commissioned in the RAFVR at RAF Eastchurch in January 1940. He was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool from June 1, to await a posting. On July 18 Niemiec went to 15 EFTS, Redhill, for grading and testing. He went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 1 1940. After he had converted to Hurricanes, he joined 17 Squadron at Tangmere on September 1. Niemiec damaged a Do 17 on September 15, damaged another on October 27, destroyed a Ju 87 on November 8 and shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 on the 17th. He was posted to 317 Squadron’s Operations Room on February 26 1941 and later began flying with the squadron. During the night of June 2/3 1941 Niemiec shared in the destruction of a Ju88, with a pilot of 317 Squadron. Awarded the KW (1.4.41) and Bar (10.9.41), Niemiec was appointed a Flight Commander with 317 on March 1 1942. He was given command of 308 Squadron at Northolt on March 5 1943 and led it until May 15. He was posted to 316 Squadron, also at Northolt, on August 17 and took command on September 15. Niemiec was awarded a second Bar to the KW (20.10.43). He took command of 306 Squadron on June 26 1944 and on July 26 he shared in destroying a V 1 flying bomb. He was posted away to HQ PAF on September 25 and attached to 13 Group. On March 11 1945 Niemiec was attached to the School of Air Support at Old Sarum, for a course, and then joined 84 GSU on April 18 for flying duties. He took command of 317 Squadron at Warelbusch, Germany on May 17 1945. Awarded the VM (5th Class)(1.6.45), Niemiec returned to 316 Squadron, then at Andrews Field, on October 12 1945, to command. He was released from the PAF in December 1946 as a Squadron Leader. Niemiec later settled in Argentina.

APO 23.3.40 PO 17.8.40 FO 20.6.41

WILLIAM NIXON 152339

AC

Radar

Operator

British 23 Squadron

Nixon, of Sheffield, joined the RAFVR in June 1940 and trained as a radar operator (1050664). He joined 23 Squadron at Middle Wallop on September 24 1940 and flew his first sortie on the 28th. Commissioned in May 1943, he was killed on August 30 1944, as a Flying Officer with 103 Squadron, operating in Lancasters from Elsham Wolds, Lincolnshire. His aircraft, LM 116, failed to return from an operation to Stettin. Nixon was 23. He is buried in Kiel War Cemetery, Germany. He was a pilot at the time of his death. PO 28.5.43 FO 28.11.43

BRIAN ROBERT NOBLE 81043

PO

Pilot

British

79 Squadron

Noble was born on August 26 1916. He joined the RAFVR about May 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741620), and was called to full-time service on September 1 1939. With training completed, he joined 79 Squadron at Biggin Hill in June 1940.

PO 27.1.40 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.9.42 SL 13.9.43 He shared in the destruction of a Do 17 and a Bf 110 on August 15 1940, shared in the probable destruction of a He 59 on August 28 and probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another on the 31st. Noble was shot down in combat with Bf 109s over Biggin Hill on September 1. He baled out, wounded, landing at Marley Lake, Riverhead and was admitted to Sevenoaks Hospital. His Hurricane, L 2062, crashed at Broughton House, Dunton Green. Noble later went to Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead for plastic surgery and became a Guinea Pig. Released from the RAF in 1946, Noble later rejoined, in the Fighter Control Branch. He retired on May 1 1969 as a Wing Commander and died in 1990.

FREDERICK GEORGE NIGHTINGALE 44979

PO

Pilot

British

219 Squadron

Nightingale joined the RAF in November 1934, as an Aircraft-hand (518361). He later applied for pilot training, remustering as a u/t Pilot on December 28 1938. Nightingale went to 3 FTS, South Cerney for No 26 Course, from March 20 to October 21. With training completed, he joined 219 Squadron at Catterick from 3 FTS on October 21 1939.

PO 15.6.40 FO 15.6.41 FL 15.6.42 FL 4.7.49 SL 1.1.56 WC 1.7.63

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DENNIS NOBLE 742128

Sgt

Pilot

British

Following a combat with some Bf 109s off Dungeness on September 1 1940, he returned to Croydon with a severely damaged tail unit. The next day, after damaging a Bf 110, he was shot down in combat over Herne Bay, in Spitfire K 9938, which crashed and burned out at Garrington Farm, near Bekesbourne emergency landing ground. Norfolk baled out, unhurt. On the 7th and 11th he destroyed Do 17s, on the 15th he probably destroyed a He 111, on the 27th he destroyed a Do 17 and probably another and on October 25 he damaged a Bf 110. Norfolk was commissioned on September 17 1940. He was awarded the DFC (7.1.41), credited with at least four enemy aircraft destroyed. He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant and he died on March 13 2005.

43 Squadron

Noble, who came from East Retford, Nottinghamshire, was educated at the Methodist Day School and Sir Frederick Milner School, Retford. Before the war Noble was employed as Chief Radio Engineer by Masto Ltd of Watford. He joined the RAFVR about October 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot and was called to full-time service on September 1 1939. He completed his training at 11 FTS, Shawbury on No 18 Course, which ran from January 31 to June 29 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 6. After converting to Hurricanes, Noble joined 43 Squadron at Northolt on August 3 1940. On the 13th he made an emergency landing at Tangmere after an operational sortie, with damage to his glycol system and radiator. On the 16th Noble claimed a Ju 87 destroyed. He was shot down and killed by a Bf 109 off the Sussex coast on August 30. His Hurricane, P 3179, crashed near the junction of Portland and Woodhouse Roads, Hove. Noble was 20. A funeral was held at East Retford Cemetery and a coffin was buried. Rumours persisted at the time that it contained only stones and was tilting to one side when lowered into the grave. On November 9 1996 Noble’s aircraft was being excavated, when it was discovered that human remains were still in the cockpit. Work was halted and the remains were removed. His widow and relatives were stunned by the discovery. There was subsequently a memorial service and burial of remains, more than fifty-six years after his death.

PO 17.9.40 FO 21.8.41 FL 21.8.42

PHILIP PURCHALL NORRIS 740810

Sgt

Pilot

Sgt

Pilot

British

Norris was in ‘A’ Flight of 213. On May 17 1940 the flight flew down from Wittering to Biggin Hill. In the afternoon it escorted a Bombay of 271 Squadron across the Channel to Abbeville. In the afternoon the flight landed at Merville, to refuel. It took off again at 17.45 hrs and patrolled over Brussels and Verde-Brain. It returned later to Biggin Hill, having seen no

54 Squadron

Noble was born in Belfast in 1915 and joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745541). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940.

enemy aircraft all day. On May 18, 19, 20, 21 and 22 the flight flew to France fom Biggin Hill, mounted patrols from Lille/Marcq and Merville and returned to Biggin Hill each evening. The flight returned to Wittering on the 23rd. In late May 213 sent a detachment to France for a few days, to help the squadrons. On the 31st Norris destroyed a BF 109 over Dunkirk. Norris failed to return from an action over Portland on August 13 1940, in Hurricane P 3348. His body was later washed ashore on the French coast and he is buried in Etaples Military Cemetery.

After converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on September 23 and had his first flight on that day, a sector recco. His last flight with 54 was made on October 13, a formation practice, and Noble was posted away on the 30th. He subsequently flew in North Africa and the Far East. Commissioned in November 1941, Noble was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He qualified as a doctor and was a GP in Sutton, Surrey from 1957 to 1987. He died on November 11 1995.

ROBERT WILSON NORRIS

PO 17.11.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 17.11.43

C 994

BENJAMIN NOKES-COOPER 77362

PO

Air Gunner

British

APO 3.2.40 PO 16.3.40

NORMAN ROBERT NORFOLK Pilot

British

Pilot

Canadian

1 (RCAF) Squadron

From July 15 to August 8 Norris was attached to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum on an Army Cooperation course. Responding to a call for volunteers for Fighter Command, Norris was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 19 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he left 5 OTU to join No 1 (RCAF) Squadron at Northolt on August 31. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on Septenber 15 and damaged a He 111 and a Bf 110 on the 27th. Norris was posted to 400 (RCAF) Squadron on January 30 1941, flying Tomahawks from Odiham on photographic-reconnaissance duties across the Channel. He was repatriated to Canada in March 1942 and commanded 125 (RCAF) Squadron from June 3 1942, flying Hurricanes from Sydney, Nova Scotia on East coast defence. In January 1944 he took his squadron to the UK but lost his command to a more experienced fighter pilot on February 8. Norris refused a posting back to Canada and went to Bomber Command, eventually taking command of 424 Squadron on March 27 1945, operating in Lancasters from Skipton-on-Swale. After the war’s end, the squadron airlifted British and Canadian troops back from Italy to the UK. He was posted away on September 30 and released from the RCAF on November 28 1945 as a Wing Commander. On May 26 1951 Norris rejoined the RCAF and served in Transport Command. He retired on November 6 1963 as a Flight Lieutenant. Norris died on November 7 2002.

He was crew in Blenheim N 3601 which was part of a force, which made a strafing attack on Quequerville airfield on August 1 1940. The Blenheim was shot down, either by fire from ground defences or by a fighter attack by Oberleutnant Adolph of III/JG 27. Both Nokes-Cooper and his pilot, Squadron Leader P E Drew, were killed. He was 32 and he is buried in Bayeux War Cemetery, France.

PO

FO

Norris, of Toronto, joined the RCAF on June 12 1939 and after training he went to 112 Squadron, flying Lysanders. The squadron was posted to the UK and arrived at Highpost, near Salisbury on June 17 1940.

236 Squadron

Nokes-Cooper was born in Manchester on April 19 1908 and joined the RAFVR in February 1940, with a direct-entry commission as an Air Gunner. With training completed, he joined 236 Squadron at North Coates in March 19 1940. He was appointed Squadron Signals Officer on July 22, as an Acting Flying Officer.

44929

213 Squadron

Born in Burgess Hill, Sussex on September 4 1917, Norris joined the RAFVR about October 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He completed his flying training and arrived at 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on February 10 1940. He converted to Hurricanes, and was posted to 213 Squadron at Wittering on March 9.

WILLIAM JOHN NOBLE 112500

British

72 Squadron

Norfolk entered the RAF on June 29 1936, as a pupil pilot. He passed his ab initio course and was formally enlisted into the RAF , as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot (580253). With training completed he was probably flying with second-line units before the outbreak of war. Norfolk was with 72 Squadron at Leconfield by October 15 1939. He was still with the squadron at the start of the Battle of Britain.

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STANLEY CHARLES NORRIS

HAROLD LESLIE NORTH

40561

41608

FO Pilot

British

610 Squadron

FO

Pilot

New Zealander

43 Squadron

Born in Tooting, London in 1919, Norris joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley on November 29 1937.

North was born in Dunedin on October 31 1919. After leaving Otago Boys’ High School he went to Wellington College and was then employed as a law clerk.

Norris moved on March 5 1938 to 9 FTS, Hullavington. He got his flying badge on June 1. With his training completed, Norris joined 29 Squadron at Debden on September 17 1938. He was detached to 4 E&RFTS, Brough from October 9 1938 to January 10 1939, for a navigation course. Norris joined 66 Squadron at Duxford on September 19 1939 and he moved on to 610 Squadron at Wittering on October 23. Over Dunkirk on May 29 1940, Norris claimed a Bf 109 destroyed. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on July 24, destroyed two more on the 25th, damaged a Do 17 on the 29th, destroyed two Ju 87s and damaged another on August 14. Norris was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on August 17 and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant. He destroyed a Bf 109 on the 24th and probably destroyed a Bf 110 on the 29th. Norris was awarded the DFC (24.9.40). He took part in the squadron’s first sweep on January 9 1941, shared in destroying a Ju 88 on April 3 and then next day he was posted to 55 OTU at Debden, as an instructor. In August 1941 Norris joined 485 Squadron at Redhill, as a Flight Commander. He destroyed a Bf 109 on the 29th. In mid- December 1941 he went to Malta, to command 126 Squadron at Ta Kali. Norris destroyed a Ju 88 on the 19th and damaged others on January 9 1942 and March 10. Norris was posted to Abadan, Persia on April 4 1942, for a staff job concerned with building up defences in the oilfields. In October he was made Squadron Leader Flying 243 Wing but took command of 33 Squadron in the Western Desert on November 20. Norris was rested in February 1943 and went to West Africa, returning to the Middle East in June. He was posted to India in August and in September took command of 11 Squadron. It had just returned to the fighter role, exchanging its Blenheim bombers for Hurricane 11cs. The squadron became operational in December 1943 and took part in operations at Imphal. In March 1944 Norris was promoted to Wing Commander Flying of a Fighter Wing there. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (23.5.44) and returned to the UK in early 1945. In May Norris took command of RAF Aston Down. He was released from the RAF in September 1947 as a Wing Commander. He became a King’s, and later a Queen’s, Messenger, serving as such until 1976. He died in 1991

He applied for an RAF short service commission in early 1938 and after provisional acceptance, he sailed for the UK on September 22 in the RMS Rangitane. On October 31 he began his ab initio course at 12 E&RFTS. He was posted to 9 FTS, Hullavington on January 28 1939 and with training completed, he went to the 11 Group Pool, St Athan on September 9. North converted to Blenheims and joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on October 6 1939. He returned to 11 Group Pool on October 27, converted to Hurricanes and joined 43 Squadron at Acklington on November 20. On February 3 1940 North shared in damaging a He 111 near the Farne Islands. He was still with 43 Squadron at the start of the Battle of Britain. On August 18 he destroyed a Ju 87 and probably another and on the 26th he destroyed a He 111 and probably a second. In this action, North’s Hurricane, V 7259, was badly damaged and he baled out, landed at Birdham and was admitted to the Royal West Sussex Hospital, Chichester, with shell splinter wounds. He left hospital on September 10 and rejoined 43 Squadron on October 21 1940, when fit again. North was posted to 96 Squadron on December 17 1940, then forming as a night-fighter unit at Cranage. He was rested on April 7 1941 and joined 3 ADU. A return to operational flying came on June 23 1941, when North joined the newly-formed 457 (RAAF) Squadron at Baginton, as a Flight Commander. He claimed FW 190s destroyed on March 26 and 28 1942 and damaged another on April 4, destroyed a FW 190 on the 16th and damaged another on the 27th. North was last seen, during a Circus on May 1 1942, diving on an enemy aircraft from 17,000 feet, ten miles inland from the French coast. He was not seen again and is believed to have been killed in action. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 66. North’s health was never good and he suffered from kidney trouble but he continued to fly operationally. He was awarded the DFC (15.6.42), being credited with at least five enemy aircraft destroyed. APO 13.1.39 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

DAVID JOHN NORTH-BOMFORD 742833

APO 19.2.38 PO 29.11.38 FO 29.8.40 FL 29.8.41 SL 1.7.43

Sgt

Pilot

British

229, 17, 111 and 601 Squadrons

North-Bomford was born in 1912 and joined the RAF on a short service commission in March 1934. He was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on the 16th and, with training completed, he joined 111 Squadron at Northolt on March 3 1935.

GERALD NORTH 83719

PO

Pilot

British

85 and 257 Squadrons

He joined the staff of the Electrical and Wireless School at Cranwell on January 27 1936 and was posted to Hinaidi, Iraq on December 19, to join 55 Squadron there. On April 1 1937 he resigned his commission. North-Bomford joined the RAFVR in January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742833). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and was probably with 229 Squadron from early 1940. He moved to 17 Squadron at Debden on July 29 1940, was attached briefly to 601 Squadron on August 25/26, during which time he flew some sorties, and was then attached to 111 Squadron on August 28. He was back with 17 Squadron from September 17. North-Bomford was posted away to 7 OTU, Hawarden on October 17 1940, as a flying instructor. Promoted to Warrant Officer on October 1 1941, he was released from the RAF in 1947, still with the same rank. He died in a shooting incident on April 28 1949.

North, from Penrith, joined the RAFVR in July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754666). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 6 FTS, Little Rissington and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 3 1940. He converted to Hurricanes and joined 85 Squadron at Croydon on September 2. North moved to 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on September 11. On the 15th North shared in damaging a Do 17. Following combat with Bf 109s over the Thames Estuary on October 15, North made a forced-landing at Hawkinge, unhurt, in Hurricane V 7351. On October 25 North probably destroyed a Bf 109 and on November 11 he shared in the destruction of two Fiat BR 20s. In Autumn 1941 North was a pilot with the MSFU, on Atlantic convoys. It became customary for pilots on this duty to bring back goods in short supply, such as cigarettes, liquor and silk stockings. North was fired off from a ship, which arrived in convoy off Anglesey on October 6 1941, the idea being to land at some airfield without customs officers, rather than go to the MSFU base at Speke, where they abounded. Visibility over Wales was bad and after failing to find Valley, North finally made a crash-landing in a field near Bangor. In early 1943 North was serving with 232 Squadron in Tunisia. He was killed on February 10 1943, as a Flight Commander with 232 Squadron. He was chasing a Bf 109 over Tabarka, when he was jumped by another, shot down and killed. North was 22. He is buried in Bone War Cemetery, Annaba, Algeria. A memorial plaque to him was unveiled on November 19 2004, at Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, Penrith.

APO 16.3.34 PO 16.3.35 FO 16.10.36

JOHN KING NORWELL 129717

Sgt

Pilot

British

54 and 41 Squadrons

Born in Perth on October 4 1917, Norwell joined the RAFVR about May 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740233) and did his elementary flying at 11 E&RFTS, Perth. In early 1939 he was offered six months training with the regular RAF and he joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on February 3. After completing advanced training, he returned to civilian life on August 15 and the RAFVR. Called up on September 1 1939, Norwell was posted to RAF Evanton, then moved to 11 Group Pool, St Athan, from where he joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 27 1939. Over Dunkirk on May 24 1940, he destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 25th shared another. Norwell shared in damaging a Do 17 on July 3, shared a Bf 110 and damaged two others

PO 3.8.40 FO 3.8.41 FL 3.8.42

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Nowak arrived in England in late 1939 and was commissioned in the RAFVR at RAF Eastchurch in January 1940. He was on the Polish Training Unit at Hucknall by April 1 1940. The unit was redesignated 18 OTU on June 15. Nowak was posted from there to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 23 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 253 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on July 16 . Nowak probably destroyed a Do 17 on August 30, destroyed a He 111 on the 31st, destroyed a Bf 110 on September 4, shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on the 11th and he damaged a He 111 on the 13th. He crashed at Gains Hill, Yalding on October 17, in Hurricane P 3537, due to engine failure. He claimed a Do 17 destroyed on the 29th. Nowak joined 303 Squadron at Leconfield on November 16 and moved to the newly-formed 315 Squadron at Acklington on January 24 1941. He was awarded the VM (5th Class)(1.2.41). Nowak destroyed a He 111 on May 11 and he destroyed a Bf 109 on August 19. The squadron was flying as part of the Polish Wing on September 21 1941, on a circus operation covering bombers to Gonay. The Spitfires met Bf 109s and a combat developed over Fruges and moved over the Channel towards Dover. Nowak was shot down, in Spitfire AB 927, and went into the sea near Dover. All efforts to save him failed and he was drowned. His body was later washed up near Dieppe and buried in Quiberville Communal Cemetery, France. Nowak was awarded the KW and Bar (30.10.41) and a second Bar (31.10.47).

on August 18, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 22nd, probably destroyed another on the 28th and shared one on the 31st. Norwell made his last flight with 54 on September 9 1940, from forward base to Catterick. He joined 41 Squadron at Hornchurch about September 11. He flew his first sortie on the 16th. On the 17th he damaged two Bf 109s and on the 27th and 30th he destroyed two more. He wrote off Spitfire X 4545 when he collided with a stationary aircraft, when taking off on October 2. Norwell was slightly injured and was non-effective sick until the 9th, when he returned from sick leave. Soon afterwards Norwell volunteered for Malta and on October 19 he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, for overseas. He embarked on the carrier HMS Argus on the 23rd, for the Mediterranean. On November 17 he was in the first flight of six Hurricanes to take off, led by Flight Lieutenant J A F MacLachlan. Two were lost en route, when their fuel gave out. Norwell landed with two gallons left. He joined 261 Squadron at Ta Kali, Malta and was posted away on April 7 1941, flying to the Middle East as a passenger in a Wellington. Norwell ferried a Hurricane to Greece and then went to ADU, Takoradi. He did not fly operationally again. Commissioned in July 1942, Norwell was awarded the AFC (1.1.45) and released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He joined the RAFVR in 1947. PO 2.7.42 FO 2.1.43 FL 2.7.44 FO (RAFVR) 8.9.47

PO 27.1.40 FO 1.3.41

ROBIN KEITH COLLEN NORWOOD 85232

PO

Pilot

British

EUGENIUSZ JAN ADAM NOWAKIEWICZ

65 Squadro

P 1913

Sgt

Pilot

Norwood joined the RAFVR on January 8 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741243). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his intermediate and advanced training at 8 FTS, Montrose on No 19 Course, which ran from May 6 to August 16 1940.

After the September fighting, Nowakiewicz flew his aircraft to Romania. He later reached France, joined l’Armée de l’Air and served in Groupe de Chasse II/7. On May 11 and June 1 1940 Nowakiewicz shared in the destruction of two He 111s, on June 11 he destroyed another, on the 14th destroyed a Hs 126, on the 15th he shared a Do 17 and damaged a He 111 and on the 18th he damaged another. After the French collapse, he made his way to North Africa and eventually arrived in the UK on July 6 1940. Nowakiewicz went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. He was enlisted in the RAFVR (793583). He joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield on August 20 1940 and was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down from September 2 to 26, where he converted to Hurricanes. He shared in probably destroying a Ju 88 on October 18 and on November 8 he made a forced-landing at Detling, slightly wounded, after being damaged in combat with Bf 109s. Nowakiewicz was awarded the VM (5th Class)(21.12.40). He destroyed a Bf 109 on May 8 1941and was awarded the KW and Bar (10.9.41). Commissioned in June 1942, he failed to return from operations on July 23 1942, after being shot down by flak at Pont de Brique, near Boulogne. Nowakiewicz was hidden by the Resistance and it was later arranged that he would fly a stolen Ju 88 to Britain but the day before it was to happen, he was captured by the Gestapo. After several months in Fresnes Prison, Nowakiewicz was sent to a PoW camp at Szubin, Poland. Two months later he was moved to Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan (PoW No 254). He was on the long march in the winter of 1944/5 and was freed on March 2 1945, near Lübeck. Nowakiewicz went to 17 FTS on January 1 1946 for a flying refresher course and was released from the PAF in 1947 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1998.

PO 17.8.40 FO 17.8.41 FL 17.8.42

ZBIGNIEW NOSOWICZ PO

Pilot

Polish

56 Squadron

Nosowicz was born on January 2 1914. He arrived in England in late 1939 and was commissioned in the RAFVR at RAF Eastchurch in January 1940. From June 1 1940 Nosowicz was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. He went to 15 EFTS, Redhill on July 18 for testing and grading. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge from there on August 1. After converting to Hurricanes, Nosowicz joined 56 Squadron at North Weald on August 31. He claimed a Do 17 probably destroyed and a Bf 110 damaged on October 7 1940. Having overshot on landing on December 12 1940, Nosowicz climbed and his propeller hit Flying Officer K H Marston’s tail. Both aircraft crashed on Middle Wallop aerodrome. Marston was killed and Nosowicz was injured On February 23 1941 he was posted to 316 Squadron’s Operations Room at Pembrey and he later flew with the Squadron, becoming a Flight Commander on January 12 1942. He became unfit for flying duties and came off operations on February 10 1942 and was posted to the staff at RAF Northolt. Nosowicz was awarded the KW (14.3.42) and invalided out in 1946.

PO 1.6.42 FO 1.6.43 FL 1.6.44

WILLIAM RONALD NOWELL Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

TADEUSZ NOWAK Pilot

Polish

Pilot

British

804 Squadron

Nowell carried out his elementary flying training at 23 E&RFTS, Rochester. He moved on to No 1 FTS, Leuchars for No 5 Course, which ran from September 4 1939 to January 13 1940.

PO 24.1.40 FO 1.3.41

76704 PO

302 Squadron

Born in Jasle on January 2 1919, Nowakiewicz entered the PAF NCOs’ School at Bydgoszcz in 1936. He qualified as a pilot at Krosno in 1939, was posted to the 2nd Air Force Regiment at Cracow and he joined 123 Eskadra.

He was commissioned and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 17. He was moved to 7 OTU, Hawarden two days later. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 65 Squadron at Turnhouse on September 2. Norwood was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on April 2 1970.

76703

Polish

He joined 804 Squadron at Hatston on June 16 1940, flying Sea Gladiators on dockyard defence. On July 14 Nowell was told to be at Abbotsinch on the 20th, with tropical kit. He embarked on the carrier HMS Argus on the 20th and it sailed from Greenock on the 23rd, with twelve Hurricanes and two Skuas aboard, heading for Gibraltar. From there, on the 31st, the carrier sailed for Malta, heavily escorted. At dawn on August 2, the Hurricanes took off in two groups of six, each led by a Skua, flown by an RAF pilot and navigated in one case, by a marine pilot and in the other by a naval pilot, Nowell. His

253 Squadron

Nowak was born on June 2 1914. He entered the PAF on January 2 1936, as a cadet. He was commissioned on November 2 1938. Before the war and in September 1939 he was serving with 121 Eskadra. On the 3rd he shared in destroying a He 111.

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Skua crashed on landing at Luqa but both he and his pilot were unhurt. Nowell and the marine pilot, Captain K L Ford, were attached to 431 Flight, to crew the undamaged Skua on reconnaissance sorties but it proved unsuitable for the task. Nowell returned to Gibraltar in mid-November. He led another six Hurricanes off the Argus on the 17th, again in a Skua but this time as pilot. Two of the Hurricanes were lost en route, when their fuel was exhausted. In 1943 Nowell was with 820 Squadron. In 1950 he was SO (Air) in HMS Daedalus, in 1953 he was in HMS Eagle and in 1954 was in 750 Squadron at Culdrose. He retired on July 29 1958 as a Lieutenant-Commander. Nowell died on December 2 1976. Actg Sub-Lt 13.3.39 Sub-Lt 14.3.40 Lt 13.9.41 Actg Lt-Cdr 1944

248 Squadron at Predannack. One day in July 1944 Nunn was captain of an aircraft, leading a section, escorting a naval force. He engaged a He 177 and set its port engine alight. Nunn and his navigator were both wounded and their aircraft damaged but he flew back safely to base. For this action and the completion of many sorties, he was awarded the DFC (5.9.44). In December 1944 Nunn went to the USA for a course at the Command and General Staff School at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. He returned to the UK in May 1945 and was posted to Air Ministry, in the Accidents Branch. He held a series of appointments and commands in a long post-war career, was made an OBE (1.1.67), received the Queen’s Commendation for Services in the Air in 1968 and served as ADC to Her Majesty from 1973 to 1975. Nunn retired on July 25 1975, as a Group Captain. His younger son, Lieutenant Richard Nunn, a Royal Marine helicopter pilot, was killed in the Falklands War on May 28 1982. He was awarded the DFC. Nunn died in 1993.

Lt-Cdr 13.9.49

TADEUSZ NOWIERSKI 76803

FO

Pilot

Polish

609 Squadron

Nowierski was born in Warsaw on June 22 1907. He joined the PAF in 1929, carrying out his flying training in Warsaw. As an NCO pilot, he entered the Cadet Officers’ School. He graduated and was commissioned in 1935.

PO 13.7.40 FO 11.7.41 FL 11.7.42 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.7.53 WC 1.7.64 GC 1.1.70

He joined 24 Eskadra, a light bomber unit based at Kracow, and he flew with this unit during the invasion in September 1939. Nowierski escaped to France, via Romania, and went on to England in early 1940. He was at RAF Eastchurch from March 1940 and he was commissioned in the RAFVR on April 30. From June 1 1940 he was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. He was at 5 OTU, Aston Down in July. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 609 Squadron at Middle Wallop on August 5. On the 13th Nowierski destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another, on September 7 he destroyed a Do 17 and a Bf 109 and probably destroyed a Bf 110, on the 25th he destroyed a He 111 and on the 30th he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another. Nowierski baled out of Spitfire N 3223 over Salisbury Plain on October 5, when his undercarriage failed, following a routine patrol. On the 15th he destroyed a Bf 109 and on December 2 he attacked and damaged a Bf 110. He was awarded the KW and two Bars (1.2.41), damaged a Ju 88 on February 13 1941 and was posted to 316 Squadron at Pembrey on March 21. He was awarded the VM (5th Class)(15.7.41) and appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on August 10. He was awarded the DFC (30.10.41). From January 9 to April 30 1942 he commanded 308 Squadron at Woodvale. He then became Squadron Leader Flying of the Northolt Wing. Leading the Wing on the Dieppe operation on August 19, Nowierski damaged two Do 17s. He was awarded a third Bar to the KW (20.8.42). On December 1 1942 Nowierski was posted to HQ 11 Group, as Polish Liaison Officer, on February 15 1943 he went to an OTU, as an instructor, and on June 20 he was appointed Wing Commander Flying, 2 Polish Wing. Nowierski commanded 133 Airfield from October 20 1943 to February 17 1945, when he was sent to a course at the Command and General Staff School, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. In July Nowierski went to the Central Fighter Establishment and in 1946 he commanded RAF Dunholme Lodge as a Group Captain. He returned to Poland on June 8 1947 and in 1948 he was arrested for political reasons, based on false accusations. Released two years later, he then worked as a taxi driver. Nowierski died in Warsaw on April 2 1983.

ROMILLY RONALD JAMES NUTE 523120

Pilot

British

British

23 Squadron

Nute was killed on March 11 1941, still with 23 Squadron. He was a member of the crew of Blenheim lF L 1340, which collided with a He lll during an intruder sortie. He is buried in St Pierre Cemetery, Amiens, France. The other members of the crew, Sergeant V H Skillen (qv) and Sergeant F H Abbott are buried alongside him.

REGINALD CHARLES NUTTER 108855

Sgt Pilot

British

257 Squadron

Nutter was born on January 5 1921 at Dover. He joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745359) and began his flying training at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble. In July he moved to 46 E&RFTS, Portsmouth, for more advanced training. Called up at the outbreak of war, he was posted to 3 ITW, Hastings, moving on to 5 FTS, Sealand for No 44 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 13 1940. Awarded his flying badge in April, Nutter completed the course and was posted to 601 Squadron at Tangmere in May but on May 21 he went to 257 Squadron, then reforming at Hendon. He served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. On September 2 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and next day he was wounded, by small shell splinters in the legs. On December 18 1940 Nutter was posted to 9 FTS, Hullavington, as an instructor. He went to Canada in February 1941 and began instructing at 34 SFTS, Medicine Hat. Commissioned in June 1941, Nutter was posted to 36 SFTS, Penhold, Alberta in November and then joined 133 (RCAF) Squadron at Lethbridge, Alberta in June 1942. He was posted to No 1 (Fighter) OTU at Bagotville, Quebec in September, as an instructor. In June 1943 Nutter went to 31 SFTS, Kingston, Ontario, to instruct FAA pupil-pilots. He returned to the UK in February 1944 and was attached to HQ ADGB. In April Nutter was posted to 61 OTU, Rednal for a refresher course on Spitfires and in May he joined 175 Squadron, 83 Group 2nd TAF, on Typhoons. In August he went to Aston Down for a conversion course on Typhoons and then joined 245 Squadron at Antwerp. Nutter was posted back to 175 Squadron in February 1945, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. In April 1945 he worked on the ground with the 7th Armoured Division, advancing from the Rhine to Lubeck. He was in a tank equipped with nine radios, directing aircraft overhead on to specific targets or to carry out reconnaissances. Nutter was awarded the DFC (14.9.45). He led the squadron back to Dunsfold for disbandment on September 29 1945. His final posting was to HQ 83 Group in October, as a staff officer investigating aircraft accidents. He was released from the RAF in April 1946 and emigrated to Canada in June. He died on December 9 2014.

STANLEY GEORGE NUNN PO

Air Gunner

Nute joined the RAF in August 1935, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and was with 23 Squadron at Collyweston in June 1940. He served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain.

PO 30.4.40 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.3.42 SL 1.9.42 WC 1.9.44

81935

Sgt

236 Squadron

Born on July 25 1920, Nunn joined the RAFVR on June 23 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754227). He made his first flight at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble on the 25th and soloed on July 5. Called up on September 1 1939, Nunn completed his training at FTS, was commissioned and he arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 13 1940. Three days later Nunn crashed on the aerodrome in Blenheim L 1478, unhurt. He converted to Blenheims and joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island on August 5. Tour-expired, Nunn was posted to CFS, Upavon in early 1941, for an instructor’s course, after which he went to 2 (Coastal) OTU at Catfoss. In December 1943 he joined

PO 21.6.41 FO 21.6.42 FL 21.6.43

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O TREVOR WALTER OAKS 391870

Sgt

Observer

New Zealander

In June O’Brian was posted to HQ 10 Group, as Wing Commander Training. In September 1942 he returned to the Portreath Wing, leading Spitfires on escorts and sweeps over the Brest Penninsula and carrying out attacks on shipping. On April 16 1943 he led 412 (RCAF) Squadron to attack German shipping off the Brest Peninsula. In an engagement with FW 190s, O’Brian’s Spitfire was damaged and he baled out into the Channel, near to the French coast. After eight hours in his dinghy, he was picked up by an MTB of the Free French Navy and taken to Dartmouth, escorted for the last few miles by a flight of 412 Spitfires. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (6.8.43). O’Brian was rested in July 1943 and returned to his former post at HQ 10 Group. From December 1943 until April 1944 he was a student at RAF Staff College. In May 1944 O’Brian joined the Joint Planning Staff in London, in the Strategical Section. He stayed on in the RAF, was made an OBE (1.1.54), served as ADC to the Queen in 1958 and retired on July 18 1959 as a Group Captain. O’Brian returned to Canada and became vice-president of a publishing company. He retired in 1982 and he died on April 15 2007.

235 Squadron

Born in Gisborne on October 17 1915, Oaks received his secondary education at Wellington Technical College and then went to work for a motor company. He volunteered for aircrew duties in early October 1939, was enlisted on October 24 and began training as an air gunner but in March 1940 he remustered as an Airman u/t Observer. Oaks carried out his navigation training at the Air Observers’ School, Ohakea and was awarded his observer badge and promoted to Sergeant on May 28. He sailed for the UK on June 7 in the RMS Rangitata. He arrived in the UK and on July 21 1940 he was sent to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting. On July 30 Oaks was posted to 17 OTU, Upwood and after converting to Blenheims, he joined 106 Squadron at Finningley on October 3 but on the 12th moved to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton. Oaks went to 69 Squadron in Malta on May 5 1941, for general reconnaissance duties over the Mediterranean. He was posted to the Sea Rescue Flight, Middle East on December 1, operating from Benghazi and later Alexandria. He went to 294 Squadron on September 24 1943 on ASR duties and on November 8 he was posted to 76 OTU, Aquir, Palestine, to instruct. Commissioned in April 1944, he returned to New Zealand in November and was released from the RNZAF on February 6 1945 as a Flying Officer.

PO 18.12.37 GC 1.7.56

FO 18.6.39

FL 16.2.40

SL 1.12.41

WC 1.7.44

WC 1.1.49

JOSEPH SOMERTON O’BRIEN 34171

SL

Pilot

British

92 and 234 Squadrons

O’Brien was the son of a major killed in France in 1917. He trained on HMS Conway, for a career in the Merchant Navy. After spending several years at sea, he joined the RAF on a short service commission in March 1934.

PO 9.4.44 FO 9.10.44 He completed his flying training at 3 FTS, Grantham, and joined 3 Squadron at Kenley on March 16 1935. He went with it to the Sudan in September, during the Abyssinian crisis. Back in the UK, he joined 23 Squadron at Biggin Hill on July 9 1936. After war broke out, O’Brien was a Flight Commander, still with 23. His promotion to Squadron Leader was gazetted on June 1 1940. On the night of June 18/19 O’Brien was captain of a Blenheim, which shared in the destruction of a He 111 near Cambridge with a Spitfire, flown by Flying Officer G W Petre of 19 Squadron. Both British aircraft were shot down by return fire. O’Brien baled out. His observer, Pilot Officer King-Clark, and his gunner, Corporal Little, were both killed. O’Brien received a Mention in Despatches (11.7.40). He left 23 shortly after this, to take charge of the Operations Room at Pembrey, arriving there on June 24. Whilst there, he made four flights with 92 Squadron, July 2, local flying; August 2, local flying; August 12, dusk landings; August 13, an operational sortie, a squadron patrol. O’Brien was awarded the DFC (30.7.40). He took command of 234 Squadron at St Eval on August 17 1940. On the 18th he probably destroyed a Bf 109, he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 on the 21st and destroyed a Bf 109 on the 24th. O’Brien was presented with his DFC by the King at Buckingham Palace on September 3. He destroyed two more Bf 109s on the 6th. He was shot down in combat with Bf 110s over St Mary Cray the next day. O’Brien baled out after an engagement, in which he probably damaged a Bf 110. He was dead when found and had been severely wounded. His Spitfire, P 9466, crashed near Biggin Hill. O’Brien was 28. He is buried in St Mary Cray Cemetery, Orpington.

PETER GEOFFREY ST GEORGE O’BRIAN 33329

FL

Pilot

Canadian

152 and 247 Squadrons

O’Brian was born in Toronto on September 16 1917, the son of Air Commodore Geoffrey O’Brian, a Royal Flying Corps pilot and founder-member of the RCAF. He was educated at Trinity College, Ontario and Toronto University. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1936, as a Flight Cadet. He was awarded the Sword of Honour in December 1937, when he graduated, with a Permanent Commission. O’Brian joined 26 Squadron at Catterick in January 1938. He was severely injured in a motor accident at Catterick on September 28 1939. He was posted from 26 Squadron to RAF Catterick on November 12 1939, for Ops Room duties. O’Brian was appointed Acting Squadron Leader on November 16. He relinquished his acting rank, when he volunteered for Fighter Command and was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 4 1940. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 152 Squadron at Warmwell on August 19. He was made temporary ‘B’ Flight Commander on August 25, when Flight Lieutenant F M Thomas became non-effective sick. On the 27th he shared in the destruction of a He 111 and on September 17 shared in destroying a Ju 88. O’Brian relinquished his temporary command and took command of the newlyreformed 247 Squadron at Roborough on September 24 1940. He was awarded the DFC (2.12.41) and led the squadron until May 1942.

APO 16.3.34 PO 16.3.35 FO 16.10.36 FL 16.10.38 SL 1.6.40

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PETER O’BYRNE 740334

Sgt

Pilot

British

He flew his last sortie with 64 on July 25 and relinquished his command very soon afterwards and was posted away to 23 (ASU) MU, at Aldergrove, Northern Ireland, remaining there until October 1941, when he went to Air Ministry, as Deputy Director, Directorate of Operational Requirements. Odbert did this job until December 1945. He was made an OBE (13.6.46) and held a series of appointments and commands at home and overseas prior to his retirement on January 29 1957 as a Group Captain.

73 and 501 Squadrons

Born in Coventry on August 7 1917, O’Byrne joined the RAFVR on June 12 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot and did his flying training at 2 E&RFTS, Ansty. Called up at the outbreak of war, he was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney on October 22 1939. After completing the course, O’Byrne went to 2 FPP, Filton on February 10 1940. He moved to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on April 28 1940, to convert to Hurricanes, and he was posted to France from PDC, Uxbridge on May 16. O’Byrne went with a draft to Le Havre and finally joined 73 Squadron at Troyes on May 28. It was withdrawn to Church Fenton on June 19, to reform. In combat with Bf 110s on September 27, O’Byrne’s Hurricane, P 3209, suffered engine damage and he made a wheels-up landing in Staffhurst Wood, Limpsfield, tearing his wings off. On October 25 O’Byrne was posted to 501 Squadron at Kenley. Four days later he made a crash-landing near Leatherhead, whilst on a routine patrol in Hurricane V 7595, unhurt. O’Byrne moved to 601 Squadron at Northolt on December 21 but the stay was short. He was drafted overseas on January 29 1941, embarked on HMS Furious on March 1 and flew off at Takoradi on the 20th. The Hurricanes were then flown along the ferry route in stages to Egypt. After a period in the Middle East Pool and at HQ Abu Sueir, O’Byrne was posted to 112 Squadron in Crete but after four days it was withdrawn as German paratroops advanced. He returned to the Middle East and rejoined 73 Squadron, then at Sidi Heneish. On September 4 1941 O’Byrne went to the Met Flight at Helipolis and on October 1 he was promoted to Warrant Officer. From November 11 1941 he was with the Met Flight at Ramleh, Palestine and from February 28 1942 he was in Cyprus, on Met duties with 1413 and later 1565 Flights. On October 25 1943 O’Byrne returned to the Middle East and joined No 1(ME) Check and Conversion Unit, Cairo. He was posted to 267 Squadron at Bari, Italy on April 24 1944, to fly Dakotas, dropping supplies to partisans in Yugoslavia. After returning to the UK in late August 1944, O’Byrne went to HQ Transport Command. He was posted to 17 SFTS, Colby Grange for a course on December 6 1944, went to 105 (T) OTU at Bramcote on March 20 1945, moved to 11 Ferry Unit at Tallbenny on August 1 and then joined 1336 Transport Command Unit at Welford. O’Byrne flew out to India and served with 117 and 267 Squadrons in Burma. He returned to the UK in April 1946 and was released from the RAF later in the year as a Warrant Officer. O’Byrne joined Aer Lingus as a pilot. He later flew with Jersey Airlines, as a Captain, until his retirement. He died in July 1998.

PO 3O.12.27 FO 9.7.29 FL 1.12.33 SL 1.10.38 WC 1.12.40 GC 1.1.44

JOHANNES ROELOF STEPHANUS OELOFSE 42519

PO

Air Gunner

British

Pilot

82517

PO

Pilot

Belgian

145 Squadron

Offenberg was born at Laeken on July 3 1916. When the Germans invaded Belgium, he was a pilot in 2 Group, 4th Squadron, 2nd Regiment d’AŽronautique. He destroyed a Do 17 and damaged another on May 10, flying with Groupe de Chasse 4/11/2. After the country was over-run, he flew with other pilots and their Fiat CR 42s to France. At the request of the French, the Belgians were put on aerodrome defence at Chartres. Offenberg and fellow-Belgian, A R I G Jottard, took two Caudron Simouns on June 20 and they flew to Corsica, then to Phillipeville, Algeria, then to Oujda, where Belgians had set up a training school. Finding morale there to be low, the two took a train to Casablanca. Here they met some other Belgians, who were trainee pilots, and some Poles. The Poles had permission to sail that evening in a cargo boat for Gibraltar. The Belgians and some French airmen slipped aboard with them. They transferred to a British ship at Gibraltar and disembarked at Liverpool on July 16 1940. The two Belgians went to the Belgian Army Depot, Tenby on the 18th and moved to 7 S of TT on the 19th. Offenberg and Jottard were commissioned in the RAFVR on the 30th and went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. They converted to Hurricanes and on August 17 they joined 145 Squadron at Drem. Offenberg claimed a Do 17 damaged on September 8, probably destroyed a Bf 109 on October 27, destroyed a Bf 109 on November 1, shared a Bf 109 on the 6th, damaged a Ju 88 on the 9th and shared a probable He 111 on December 11. Offenberg destroyed a Bf 109 and a He 60 and damaged another He 60 on May 5 1941. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on May 21 and awarded the DFC in June, the first Belgian to receive one. On June 17 1941 Offenberg was posted to 609 Squadron at Biggin Hill. On the 22nd he damaged a Bf 109 and on July 7 shot another down. He was awarded the C de G (Belg) on the 21st and appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on the 27th. Offenberg probably destroyed Bf 109s on July 19, August 6, 27 and 29 and damaged two on September 27 and October 13. Whilst up training a new pilot on January 22 1942, Offenberg was subjected to a mock attack by a pilot of 92 Squadron. This resulted in a collision and the tail unit of Offenberg’s aircraft was cut off. He was only at 1,000 feet, went into a vertical dive and was killed in the crash. He was buried with full military honours on January 26, in Scopwick Church Burial Ground, Lincolnshire. As well as five confirmed victories, Offenberg was credited with five enemy aircraft probably destroyed, two shared and seven others damaged.

264 Squadron

FL 1.4.42 FL 1.9.45

British

43 Squadron

JEAN HENRI MARIE OFFENBERG

NORMAN CYRIL ODBERT SL

South African

APO 19.8.39 PO 1.2.40

His Defiant was damaged in collision with another aircraft during a scramble from Hornchurch on August 24. O’Connell was injured on October 7, when his Defiant, N 1578, crashed on take-off. Both he and his pilot were admitted to hospital. O’Connell retired from the RAF on September 9 1958 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on December 17 1976.

24213

Pilot

He moved on to 14 FTS, Kinloss for No 2 Course, which ran from September 4 1939 to February 1 1940. After completing his training, he went for further training to 11 Group Pool, St Athan. He was posted away two days later to make room for twelve Finnish pilots, due to arrive for Hurricane training. Oelofse joined 43 Squadron at Wick on February 8. On August 8 1940 he was shot down and killed in combat with enemy aircraft ten miles S of the Isle of Wight, in Hurricane P 3468. His body was later recovered. Oelofse was 23. He is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Tangmere.

O’Connell was born on July 9 1911. He joined the RAF in August 1937, as an Aircrafthand (542911). In early 1940 he remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner, completed his training, was commissioned in April 1940 and joined 264 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on June 9.

PO 7.4.40 F0 7.4.41

PO

Oelofse joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 26 1939.

ANTHONY O’CONNELL 43260

GC 1.7.47

64 Squadron

Born on June 6 1909, Odbert joined the RAF on a short service commission in December 1927. He was posted to 2 FTS, Digby on January 14 1928 and in early 1929 he joined 26 (AC) Squadron at Catterick. After a course at No 1 School of Army Cooperation at Old Sarum, Odbert was posted to the Middle East on September 13 1929, to 208 (AC) Squadron at Heliopolis. Back in the UK, Odbert went to CFS, Wittering in September 1932, for an instructors’ course, following which he was posted to the staff of 504 Squadron, AAF, as Flying Instructor and Adjutant. He moved later to 601 Squadron, AAF and on February 10 1936 he went to the staff of 609 Squadron, AAF, when it was formed at Yeadon. Odbert was granted a Permanent Commission on June 1 1936. He left 609 Squadron in 1938 and probably went to ‘C’ Flight of No 1 AACU, Bircham Newton. On October 3 1938 Odbert went to RAF Catterick. After a spell instructing at Cranwell, he was posted to Air Ministry on the Directorate, AAF. In late 1939 Odbert was on the staff of 54 Group. He went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 23 1940 for a refresher course and after converting to Spitfires, he took command of 64 Squadron at Kenley on May 31.

PO 30.7.40 FO 30.7.41

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

ALFRED KEITH OGILVIE 42872

PO

Pilot

CHARLES ALEXANDER OGILVY

Canadian

609 Squadron

85681

Born in Ottawa on September 4 1915, Ogilvie worked in a bank after leaving school. He tried, without success, to join the RCAF. He was provisionally accepted for an RAF short service commission and went to England.

British

610 Squadron

PO 29.9.40

TREVOR GUEST OLDFIELD 819030

Sgt

Pilot

British

64 and 92 Squadrons

Oldfield joined 615 Squadron, AAF in early 1938, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot and was called up on August 24 1939. He did his elementary flying training at 5 FTS, Meir and went on to 2 FTS Brize Norton for No 47 Course, from April 28 to August 9 1940. He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 10. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 64 Squadron on August 28. Oldfield flew his last sortie with 64 on September 14 and moved to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill on the 16th. He flew his first sortie with 92 on the 21st. Oldfield was shot down and killed by enemy aircraft on September 27. His Spitfire, R 6622, crashed at Fullers House, Hesketh Park, Dartford and

DONALD BRUCE OGILVIE Pilot

British

Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his elementary flying training at 6 EFTS, Sywell on July 7 1940 and moved on next day to 5 FTS, Sealand. He finished his intermediate and advanced flying course on September 28, was commissioned on the 29th and arrived at 7 OTU Hawarden. After converting to Spitfires, Ogilvy joined 610 Squadron at Acklington on October 14 1940. On the 25th he made two X-raid sorties, each of one hour duration, thus qualifying him for the award of the Battle of Britain clasp. He became an instructor at RAF Cranwell. He was later with Bomber Command, serving in 622 Squadron, operating in Lancasters from Mildenhall, as a Squadron Leader. He took part in both Operation Manna (dropping supplies to Dutch civilians in 1945) and Operation Exodus in which he flew former PoWs home from Italy. After the war Ogilvy played Rugby Union for London Scottish and became a prominent figure in insurance. He died in 1995.

APO 23.10.39 PO 25.5.40 FO 25.5.41 FL 25.5.42

PO

Pilot

Ogilvy was born in Kelso on November 30 1915. He joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745745).

He began his ab initio flying course at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield on August 14 1939, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 9 FTS, Hullavington on November 6. After completing the course, Ogilive went to No 1 Flying Practice Unit, Meir, Staffordshire on May 16 1940, for further training. He was sent to CFS, Upavon on June 6, for an instructor’s course but arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 6, to convert to Spitfires. Ogilvie joined 609 Squadron at Middle Wallop on August 19. He destroyed a Bf 109 and probably a Bf 110 on September 7, destroyed a Do 17 on the 15th, damaged a Do 17 on the 24th, probably destroyed another Do 17 and damaged a Bf 110 on the 25th, damaged a He 111 on the 26th and destroyed a Bf 110 on the 27th. In 1941, Ogilvie damaged a Bf 109 on March 19, destroyed a Bf 109 on May 16, shared in probably destroying a Ju 52 on the 22nd and destroyed Bf 109s on June 17 and 21. The squadron escorted bombers to Lille on July 4 1941. Ogilvie’s aircraft was attacked and damaged by a Bf 109 and he was wounded, in the arm and shoulder. He lost consciousness but came to and baled out, landing in a field. Weak from loss of blood, he was unable to take up offers of French people to help him escape. Ogilvie was in hospital in Lille and Brussels for nine months and was then sent to Stalag Luft 3, Sagan (PoW No 1409). He took part in the Great Escape but was recaptured after two days. Interrogated by the Gestapo, he was returned to the camp whilst others were shot. He insisted he was a career officer. Liberated in April 1945, Ogilvie transferred to the RCAF as a Flight Lieutenant. Initially on Flying Control, he later went back to flying duties, with 412 (Transport) Squadron. He went on to command 129 Acceptance and Ferry Flight, later became a Staff Officer and his final appointment was Operations Officer at Downsview air base. He retired on September 14 1962. He was awarded the DFC (11.7.41) and his portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in June 1941. Ogilvie died in May 1998.

83287

PO

601 Squadron

Ogilvie joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754670). Called up on September 1, he completed his elementary flying training at 7 EFTS, Desford. He moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 20 Course, which ran from May 13 to August 17 1940.

exploded on impact. On this day he destroyed a Bf 109. Oldfield was 21 years old and is buried in St Stephen’s Church Burial Ground, Chertsey, Surrey. On September 27 2007 a memorial to Trevor Oldfield was unveiled at the site of his crash in Hesketh Park by the Shoreham Aircraft Museum.

Ogilvie was commissioned and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 17. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 601 Squadron at Exeter on September 11. Landing after a training flight on September 24, he overshot the runway and overturned. He was slightly injured and admitted to hospital. While he was non-effective sick, Ogilvie served as Station Parachute Officer, Exeter. He relinquished this on October 11, when he returned to flying duties. In May 1941 Ogilvie was appointed a Flight Commander. On May 22 he destroyed a Bf 109 and shared in the destruction of a Ju 52, on the 25th he damaged a Bf 109 and on June 22 he destroyed a Do 17. He was posted away in October to the new Fighter Leaders’ School at 53 OTU, as an instructor. Whilst there, he intercepted and damaged a Do 17 off Mumbles Head on December 23 1941, in a 53 OTU Spitfire. In January 1942 he went to the Westland Aircraft Co as Liaison Test Pilot on Whirlwinds and then joined 137 Squadron, operating in these aircraft from Matlask. Ogilvie was posted to No 1 (Fighter) Group (USAF) in May 1942, as Liaison Officer, moving later to 82 (Fighter) Group. He returned to operations with Whirlwinds, when he joined 263 Squadron at Warmwell in October. In February 1943 Ogilvie went to No 1 Specialised Low Attack Instructors’ School at Berwick and in April took a Close Support Unit to the Middle East and joined 6 Squadron in the Close Support (Anti-Tank) Group at Derna. Ogilvie was posted to HQ Eastern Mediterranean in July 1943, as Squadron Leader Ops and Air Support Officer for SAS operations. He was Senior Air Officer in the invasion of the Dodecanese Islands in November 1943 and was captured in the German counter-attack. After being held in Athens, Ogilvie was transferred to Germany and was in various PoW camps, the last being Barth Vogelsang (PoW No 1682), from where he was released by the Russians. Ogilvie returned to England in May 1945 and was invalided out of the RAF in July. He received two Mentions in Despatches and was awarded the US Silver Star and the Air Medal with Oak Leaves.

ARTHUR ALEXANDER O’LEARY 54654

AC 1 Radar Operator British

604 Squadron

O’Leary, of Mitcham, was born in Hastings on January 4 1921. He was educated at St Joseph’s, Eastbourne and the Central School, Carshalton. In 1938 he enlisted in the Royal Engineers (TA) with the Anti-Aircraft Searchlight Coy at Hackbridge. After being mobilised during the Munich crisis in September 1938, O’Leary joined the RAF on January 4 1939 (630959). At the outbreak of war, he was training as an air gunner with 217 Squadron, a general recco unit, based at St Eval. O’Leary served in the AASF in France, as a ground radio operator. After the French collapse, he returned to England and volunteered for aircrew duties of a secret nature. O’Leary completed a short AI course at Yatesbury, after which he joined 604 Squadron at Gravesend in early July 1940. In an engagement at night on December 20 O’Leary baled out after his aircraft was hit by return fire. Wounded in the leg, he was admitted to hospital. On the night of May 1 1941 O’Leary was in a Beaufighter, captained by Flying Officer I K S Joll. Closing in on an enemy aircraft, they were hit by return fire and O’Leary was wounded in five places. With the R/T and intercom out of action, Joll needed homing aids to get back to base. Although very seriously wounded, O’Leary crawled forward and homed the Beaufighter back to Middle Wallop on the AI beacon, using the emergency intercom code on the aircraft hooter. For this action he was awarded the DFM (30.5.41). On October 6 1941, 89 Squadron was formed at Colerne. O’Leary and Pilot Officer N E Reeves joined it at Portreath on December 1. The squadron flew its Beaufighters to Egypt, via Gibraltar and Malta, for night interception duties. Six crews, Reeves and O’Leary included, flew in four aircraft to Malta on June 22 1942, as ‘C’ Flight, to operate from Ta Kali on night defence of Malta and its approaches. Reeves

PO 17.8.40 FO 17.8.41 FL 17.8.42

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

BOLESLAW OLEWINSKI

and O’Leary destroyed Ju 88s on the nights of July 2/3, 5/6th, 17/18th and 30/31st and destroyed a Cant Z 1007 on August 14/15. The team flew in one of four Beaufighters on September 6 1942, acting as top cover for Beauforts on a shipping strike. Reeves and O’Leary destroyed a Ju 88. They carried out intruder operations on Castelvetra aerodrome on September 17 and 19, dropping bombs and strafing ground targets. The detachment to Malta ceased on September 23 and the crews returned to Egypt. During the night of December 30/31, Reeves and O’Leary damaged a He 111, on January 8/9 1943 they destroyed a He 111, on February 21/ 22 destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged another and on the 26/27th they destroyed another Ju 88. O’Leary, now a Warrant Officer, was awarded the DFC (16.2.43) and a Bar (14.5.43). O’Leary and Reeves returned to the UK in May 1943 and instructed at 62 OTU, Ouston. They returned to operations on February 2 1944, joining 239 Squadron at West Raynham, engaged on Bomber Support duties over France and Germany. They destroyed a Do 217 on April 11/12 and Bf 110s on the 27/28th, May 27/28 and July 4/5. Commissioned in April 1944, O’Leary, one of the most successful Navigator/Radios in the RAF, was awarded a Second Bar to the DFC (14.11.44) at the end of his tour with 239 Squadron. He was posted to a GCA Development Unit on November 29 1944. Released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flying Officer, O’Leary later emigrated to New Zealand. He worked for many years as a Housing Officer at Massey University. He died in Palmerston North on April 21 1987.

780695

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

111 Squadron

Born in Jersey City, USA on October 26 1919, Olewinski entered the PAF NCOs Training School at Bydgoszcz in 1936. He qualified as a pilot at Krosno in 1939, was posted to the 1st Air Force Regiment, Warsaw and joined 114 Eskadra, a fighter squadron. Olewinski was shot down and wounded on September 1 1939. He was evacuated with other hospital patients to Romania. After he eventually reached France, he went on to England, arriving there in February 1940. Olewinski was enlisted in the RAFVR at RAF Eastchurch on February 20 1940. From June 1 he was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. On August 26 he went to the Polish Depot. He was posted from there on September 12, to 15 EFTS, Redhill for testing and grading. Olewinski arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 25. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 111 Squadron at Drem on October 10. He was killed on November 3 1940, when he was shot down by return fire from a He 111 engaged thirty miles E of Rock Point. His Hurricane, V 6560, crashed into the sea. Olewinski is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt.

PO 9.4.44 FO 9.10.44

CHARLES GORDON CHALONER OLIVE

ZBIGNIEW OLENSKI 76617

FO

Pilot

Polish

39469

FL

Olenski was in charge of scientific research into aeroplane performance and was a test pilot, specialising in fighters. He was a pilot in the PAF Reserve. After the collapse of Poland in September 1939, he went to France, via Romania. Olenski was selected for service in Britain, arrived at RAF Eastchurch in December 1939 and was commissioned in the RAFVR on December 16 1939. From June 1 1940 he was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. Olenski was on the 3rd Polish Pilots’ Course at No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum from July 22 to 29, for testing and grading. He then went to 7 OTU, Hawarden, converted to Spitfires and joined 234 Squadron at Middle Wallop on August 14. He flew his first sortie on the 17th. He claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed on the 24th and a Bf 110 destroyed on September 4. Olenski was posted to 609 Squadron, also at Middle Wallop, on the 5th. He submitted a report on the shortcomings of the Spitfire Mk 1 and suggested modifications, which were accepted and implemented. On the basis of this technical report, Olenski was attached to the RAE, Farnborough on March 28 1941. He worked in the Aerodynamics Department and reached the position of Senior Aerodynamicist. On July 1 1942 he was attached to 316 Squadron at Heston for two weeks. On October 29 1945 Olenski was attached to the Central Fighter Establishment and from June 4 1946 to HQ Fighter Command. He was released in March 1947 as a Flight Lieutenant. He joined AV Roe in Manchester, as an aerodynamicist, and worked on several projects, including the Vulcan bomber. Olenski suffered a stroke in 1960 and died on June 20 1970.

WILFRED PALLASEN OLESEN Pilot

British

65 Squadron

Olive sailed for England in January 1937 and transferred into the RAF in February. After a three month course at 2 FTS, Digby, Olive was posted to 65 Squadron at Hornchurch in May 1937. Three years later he was still with 65 as ‘A’ Flight Commander. He was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on July 24 1939. Over Dunkirk on May 26 1940, he damaged a Bf 109. Olive chased a Bf 109 across the Channel on July 20 and shot it down into the sea off Cap Griz Nez. Taking off at the head of the squadron on August 7, Olive had not got much height when his oxygen regulator caught fire. Realising that he had insufficient height and very little time Olive went into a vertical climb and baled out. His pilot chute failed to open and after managing to untangle it, Olive saw he was floating towards high tension cables and also realised he was being fired at from the ground by two Home Guards. He landed safely and after further misadventures on the ground, he reached Hornchurch. Olive probably destroyed a Bf 109 on August 12, destroyed two more and probably destroyed another on the 13th, probably destroyed another on the 14th, probably destroyed a Ju 88 on the 16th, got a probable Bf 109 on the 24th and a Bf 110 destroyed on the 26th. Olive was awarded the DFC (24.9.40). He destroyed a Bf 110 on December 8 and claimed a probable Ju 88 on February 15 1941. In March 1941 Olive went to Tangmere for Fighter Controller duties. On June 20 he was given the job of forming and then commanding 456 (RAAF) Squadron at Valley, initially with Defiants and later Beaufighters. Olive was posted away in March 1942 because of ill health. Later posted to HQ 81 Group, he joined 55 OTU, as a supernumerary, moving later to 58 OTU, to command the section at Balado Bridge. In December 1942 he was promoted to Acting Wing Commander and appointed OC Training Wing at 58 OTU. He transferred to the RAAF on June 3 1943, as a Squadron Leader and on October 20 he returned to Australia. In 1944 Olive was at Air Defence HQ, Sydney and in 1945 at Air Defence HQ, Morotai. Released from the RAAF in March 1946 as a Wing Commander, Olive died in 1987.

PO 16.12.39 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.9.41

PO

Australian

Born in Bardon, Queensland on July 3 1916, Olive was educated at Brisbane Grammar School and Queensland University. He joined the RAAF in late 1935 and qualified for his flying badge in December 1936.

Born on November 13 1907, Olenski graduated from Warsaw University, with a Diploma in Engineering and then worked for the Aeronautical Technical Institute.

42570

Pilot

234 and 609 Squadrons

607 Squadron

Olesen joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 26 1939, as a pupil pilot. With training completed, he was at No 1 Air Armament School, Manby, possibly as a staff pilot. He joined 607 Squadron at Usworth on June 18 1940. Olesen was posted from 607 to No 1 AAS, Manby on September 23, for temporary flying duties, pending commencement of a Specialist Armament Course. In early 1941 Olesen was posted to the A&AEE, Boscombe Down, for test pilot duties. He had three flying accidents between October 3 and December 26 1941. In early 1942 Olesen transferred to the Technical Branch (Armament) and continued with it until his death. On July 6 1950 he was killed whilst flying in Anson C Mk 12, PH597 of the station flight, RAF Buckeburg, which collided with Spitfire PR Mk 19, PM616 of 2 Squadron on the approach to the station. Another person in the Anson and the Spitfire pilot were also killed. Olesen is buried in Limmer Cemetery, Hannover.

PO 19.2.37 FO 19.8.38 FL 19.8.40 SL 1.9.41

GEORGE DIXON OLIVER 936196

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

23 Squadron

Oliver, of Gosforth, joined the RAFVR in September 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. He completed his training and was on 235 Squadron at North Coates by March 31 1940. He had moved to 23 Squadron at Collyweston by June 1940. Oliver was killed with the squadron on September 8 1941 as a Flight Sergeant. He was 26 and is buried in Kerfautras Cemetery, Brest.

APO 19.8.39 PO 28.2.40 FO 28.2.41 FL 28.2.42 SL 1.9.45 WC 1.1.49

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

PETER OLVER 84963

PO

Pilot

JAMES JOSEPH O’MEARA British

611 and 603 Squadrons

40844

FO

Pilot

British

Olver was born in Leamington Spa on April 4 1917. He was educated at Eniscote Lawn Preparatory School and Bromsgrove and later studied Mechanical and Electrical Engineering. After working for various undertakings of which his father was General Manager and Director, Olver went to the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Electric Power Co as a Power Development Officer.

64 and 72 Squadrons, 421 Flight

O’Meara was born in Barnsley, Yorkshire on February 20 1919. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on April 4 1938, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 9 FTS, Hullavington on June 18 and, with training completed, he joined 64 Squadron at Church Fenton on January 14 1939. Still with 64 in May 1940, O’Meara probably destroyed a Ju 88 on the 21st and a Bf 109 over Dunkirk on the 31st. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on July 19, two Ju 87s destroyed and another damaged on the 29th, two probable Bf 109s on August 11, a Bf 109 damaged on the 12th, a Bf 109 and a Ju 88 destroyed on the 13th, three He 111s damaged on the 15th, a Bf 110 damaged on the 16th and he shared in destroying a Ju 88 and a He 111on the 18th. O’Meara was posted to 72 Squadron at Biggin Hill on September 20 and awarded the DFC (24.9.40). He damaged a Do 17 on the 27th and he destroyed a Ju 88 and probably another on the 29th. He joined 421 Flight on October 3 at its formation at Hawkinge. Flying a high performance, blue-painted Spitfire on November 26, O’Meara shot down a He 59 into the Channel. He damaged a Do 17 on December 3, destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another on the 5th and on January 7 1941 he damaged a Ju 88. On January 11 421 Flight was expanded and renumbered 91 Squadron. On the 19th O’Meara damaged another Ju 88, and on February 2 damaged a Do 17. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (18.3.41) and he rejoined 64 Squadron at Hornchurch, as a Flight Commander. On April 9 O’Meara shot down another He 59. Rested in October 1941, he went to 1491 Target-Towing Flight at Tain. In July 1942 he joined 164 Squadron but was then posted to Nigeria, to join 1432 Flight. He returned to the UK in August 1942 and was appointed RAF Liaison Officer to the Army Chief of Staff. In January 1943 O’Meara joined 234 Squadron, as a supernumerary. In March he was given command of 131 Squadron at Castletown. On August 3 he damaged a FW 190 N of Brest, his final operational success. O’Meara relinquished command of 131 in May 1944 and went to HQ 10 Group. He was awarded the DSO (27.10.44), being then credited with twelve enemy aircraft destroyed. He later served in the South-West Pacific and India but did not fly operationally again. O’Meara retired from the RAF on July 31 1959 as a Squadron Leader.

About July 1939 he joined the RAFVR at Derby, as an Airman u/t Pilot (758173) but did little flying before being called to full-time service on September 1 1939. Olver eventually went to 3 ITW, Hastings and moved on to 22 EFTS, Cambridge in early April 1940. On June 25 he was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand and with the course completed, he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 17, where he flew ten hours converting to Spitfires. Olver joined 611 Squadron at Digby on September 29 and was posted to 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on October 19. On the 25th, on his first operational sortie, Olver was shot down by Bf 109s over Hastings and baled out, slightly wounded. His Spitfire, P 7309, crashed at Pickdick Farm, Brede, Sussex. On November 11 Olver probably destroyed a Ju 87 and during the month shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 and a Do 17. In mid-December 603 returned to Scotland for a rest. Olver asked to be posted to 11 Group and joined 66 Squadron at Biggin Hill on December 25 1940. He shared a He 111 and damaged another on May 27 1941 and probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another on August 20. Olver was made a Flight Commander in October. Tour-expired, he was posted to Warmwell, to form the 10 Group Towing Flight, flying Lysanders. Olver volunteered for the Middle East and on June 8 1942 he arrived at Gambut, where he was attached to 213 Squadron, operating as a supernumerary Flight Lieutenant. He was posted to 238 Squadron in the Western Desert on June 30, as a Flight Commander. On July 15 Olver damaged a Ju 88, on the 16th he probably destroyed a Ju 87 and on August 7 he damaged a Bf 109. On October 12 1942 Olver was given command of 213 Squadron. On November 2 he destroyed a Ju 87, probably another and damaged a third and on the 14th he destroyed three CR 42s on the ground at Agedabia. He was awarded the DFC (5.1.43). Olver took command of No 1 (SAAF) Squadron on January 1 1943 and on the 21st destroyed a Mc 202. He was appointed Squadron Leader Flying 244 Wing on February 5 and when the CO, Wing Commander I R Gleed, was killed on April 16, Olver took temporary command of the Wing. He shared in the destruction of a Mc 205 and damaged a Bf 109 on the 17th. Olver was promoted to Acting Wing Commander on May 5 and his appointment as Wing Commander Flying 244 Wing was confirmed. On this day he damaged a Bf 109. Leading a patrol over the American landing in Sicily on June 11 1943, Olver shot down two Bf 109s and then chased some Ju 88s. His fuel tank was set alight by return fire and he was unable to get his Spitfire IX back to the sea. He baled out very low near Caltagirone, wounded and burned, and was captured. After being in hospitals in Sicily and Naples for some time, Olver was sent to Germany. He was in PoW camps at Hammerstein and Kassel, then Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan (PoW No 2006). Olver was flown to England from Diepholz on VE Day, May 8 1945. He did a refresher course on Harvards at Coleby Grange, then went to Technical Training Command and was put in charge of 3 Wing at RAF Wilmslow. He was later posted to RAF Chivenor, on Spitfire XVIs. Olver was released from the RAF at his own request in 1947 as a Squadron Leader. He took his family to Kenya in September 1947 and farmed there. He returned to the UK in 1963 and farmed in Devon until his retirement. He died in February 2013.

APO 3.4.38 PO 4.4.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.1.44 FL 21.1.45 SL 1.7.53

RUPERT JOHN OMMANNEY 742538

Sgt

Pilot

British

229 Squadron

Ommanney, the son of an Army officer, was born in September 1915. He became a Merchant Navy cadet and then joined the RAF on a short service commission in April 1935. He began his elementary flying training at an FTS on May 7 and finished his course of intermediate and advanced training on April 16 1936 and was posted to a unit. He resigned his commission on August 21 1937 and joined the RAFVR in November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742538). Called up on September 1 1939, Ommanney completed his training and presumably was on non-operational duties before arriving at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 2 1940. After converting toHurricanes, he was posted to 229 Squadron at

PO 7.9.40 FO 7.9.41 FL 7.9.42 SL 17.7.43

He later became a barrister and in November 1938 he was commissioned in the RAFVR. Called to full-time service on September 18 1939, O’Malley completed his training and joined 264 Squadron at Duxford on May 22 1940. On August 24 his Defiant was damaged in collision with another aircraft during a scramble at Hornchurch. O’Malley and his gunner were unhurt. In the evening of September 4 1940, he was the pilot of Defiant N 1628, ordered to take off on an interception patrol. The aircraft crashed near Northorpe shortly after taking off and O’Malley and his gunner Sergeant L A W Rasmussen were both killed. O’Malley was 29. He is buried in Kirton-in-Lindsey Burial Ground, Lincolnshire.

Wittering on June 17. Ommanney claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and a Do 17 shared on September 15 and a Ju 88 damaged on the 27th. He was wounded in the foot on the 30th and did not return to the squadron until October 15. He was one of a section of three Hurricanes, which attacked a He 59 floatplane, flying low off the coast in the vicinity of Boulogne on October 26. The enemy aircraft alighted on the sea, with three of its crew of four killed. The Hurricanes were then attacked from the rear by Bf 109s and fired on by guns from the shore. Ommanney made off at low level across the Channel and reached his base. The section-leader, Flying Officer G M Simpson, was never heard of again and the third pilot, Flying Officer D B H McHardy, was later reported captured. In early 1941 Ommanney was with 607 Squadron. On February 12 1942 the squadron was involved in the operations against the German warships making their ‘Channel Dash’. Ommanney was one of four 607 pilots shot down and killed by flak over Le Touquet. His rank at the time of his death was Warrant Officer. He was 26 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 72.

PO (RAFVR) 11.10.38 PO 18.9.39 FO 1.5.40

APO 16.4.35 PO 16.4.36

DEREK KEPPEL COLERIDGE O’MALLEY 72475

FO

Pilot

British

264 Squadron

O’Malley was born in 1911 and educated at Westminster School. He went on to Christ Church, Oxford, where he read History and from 1929 to 1932 he was a member of the University Air Squadron.

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

DESMOND HUGH O’NEILL

ERIC ORGIAS

40638

36272

FO

Pilot

British

611 and 41 Squadrons

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

O’Neill joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on January 17 1938, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on April 9 and with training completed, he joined 2 AACU at Lee-on-Solent on October 29 1938.

Orgias was born in Palmerston North on November 23 1914. After leaving High School there, he worked for a local farmer before going to Massey Agricultural College, where he obtained a diploma in sheep farming in 1936.

He was later with 12 Squadron, equipped with Fairey Battles. O’Neill’s first and only sortie with the squadron was made on August 18 1940, an evening attack on shipping in Boulogne harbour. Probably O’Neill had volunteered for Fighter Command and he went to 611 Squadron at Digby on August 20 and moved to 41 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 29. O’Neill was involved in a mid-air collision with Sergeant L R Carter during a battle climb to engage Bf 109s on October 11 1940. He baled out but was killed, when his parachute failed to open. His Spitfire, X 4042, crashed near The Crooked Billet, Ash. O’Neill was 25. He is buried in Streatham Park Cemetery, Mitcham, Surrey.

In February 1938 Orgias joined the Civil Reserve of Pilots and did his required forty hours of flying at the Middle Districts Aero Club. He applied for an RNZAF short service commission in March 1939 but did not report to the Ground Training School at Rongotai until September 20, in the last intake of the short service scheme. On October 24 Orgias went to No 1 FTS, Wigram. He was awarded his flying badge in January 1940 and sailed for the UK in early March on the SS Remuera. On arrival at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on April 13 Orgias relinquished his RNZAF commission and transferred to the RAF. He went to No 1 Flying Practice Unit, Meir, as a supernumerary, pending a vacancy at OTU. Orgias was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 6 1940, converted to Blenheims and he joined 23 Squadron at Collyweston on June 12. During a night patrol on September 25, Orgias reported that he was returning with one engine running badly. He reached his base area at Middle Wallop but crashed near Broughton, Hampshire. Orgias and his crew of two were killed. As he was preparing to land, it is believed that he stalled after turning away to make a wide approach into wind, possibly due to the failure of the port engine. Orgias is buried in St Peter’s churchyard, Over Wallop.

APO 26.3.38 PO 17.1.39 FO 17.8.40

JOHN ANTHONY O’NEILL 37117

FL

Pilot

British

601 and 238 Squadrons

Born on October 7 1915 in Portsmouth and educated at St John’s College Southsea, O’Neill joined the RAF on a short service commission on March 15 1935. He was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on April 1 and with training completed, he joined 99 Squadron at Mildenhall on February 29 1936. From early February until mid-July 1937 O’Neill was off flying with a wrist injury. Fit again, he was posted to 58 Squadron at Boscombe Down on July 16 1937. O’Neill took part in the first incursion of the war into Germany, when Whitleys of 58 Squadron made a leaflet raid on the night of September 3/4 1939. He operated with the squadron until June 22 1940, when he was posted away to be OC Flying at the Central Landing School at Ringway. O’Neill was awarded the DFC (30.7.40) for his work with 58 Squadron. On September 13 1940 O’Neill was posted to 419 (Special Duties) Flight at North Weald. The Flight, part of 11 Group, was responsible for ferrying MI 6 and SOE agents in and out of Occupied Europe. On October 4 he joined 601 Squadron at Exeter, to convert to Hurricanes, after which he was posted to 238 Squadron at Chilbolton, as a Flight Commander. O’Neill rejoined 601 Squadron at Northolt on December 14 1940, to command. He shot down a Bf 109 on April 16 1941 and was then himself shot down, ditching in the sea off Dungeness, with leg wounds. After hospital and convalescence, O’Neill rejoined 238 Squadron at Tangmere on June 13, as a Flight Commander. He was posted away on November 24, to become OC Flying at 60 OTU, East Fortune On February 5 1942 O’Neill was appointed Wing Commander Training at HQ 10 Group, Rudloe Manor. He was posted to India in August 1942. He commanded 293 Wing at Alipore until January 15 1943, when he took command of 176 Squadron, then forming at Dum Dum from a detachment of 89 Squadron. When 176 Squadron moved to Baigachi in February, O’Neill also became Station Commander there. He left the squadron on July 23 1943 and was invalided home at the end of the year. From February 1 1944 until June 23 1945 O’Neill was Station Commander at West Malling and later Bradwell Bay. He retired from the RAF on November 29 1957 as a Wing Commander, retaining the rank of Group Captain. He died on May 15 2008. APO 15.3.35 WC 1.7.47

PO 15.3.36

FO 15.10.37

FL 15.10.39

SL 1.12.40

APO 20.9.39 PO 13.4.40

VICTOR MARCEL MAURICE ORTMANS 82161

Sgt

Pilot

PO

Pilot

Belgian

229 Squadron

Ortmans was born in London on April 17 1915. He joined the Aviation Militaire Belge, as a cadet pilot and was commissioned in April 1937. Later he was in 7/IIIe, an army co-operation squadron equipped with Fairey Foxes. The squadron moved to an advanced airfield near Liège on May 10 1940 but was completely wiped out by enemy action, mostly on the ground, on the 12th. The pilots escaped to France but no replacement aircraft were found for them. On June 22 the French signed an Armistice and the Belgians were told to stay put. With other pilots, Ortmans reached Port Vendres, from where, with the help of a British destroyer and the support of the Belgian Embassy in London, they caught a passing convoy and embarked on the SS Apapa on the 24th. After arriving in Liverpool on July 7, Ortmans went to Beeston Castle, Cheshire and then to 7 S of TT on the 13th, where he was commissioned in the RAFVR. He was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on 19th and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 229 Squadron at Wittering on August 10. He flew his first sortie with the squadron on the 16th. Ortmans claimed a share in the destruction of a Do 17 on September 15, he shared in the destruction of a He 111 and damaged another on the 27th and destroyed a Do 17 and probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 30th. On this day Ortmans was hit by return fire from a Do 17 and he made a forced-landing on the beach at Lydd. On October 18 he damaged a Ju 88. Ortmans was posted to 609 Squadron at Biggin Hill on April 7 1941. He damaged a Bf 109 on May 16, shared another on the 21st, shot down two Bf 109s on June 4 and 30 and damaged two more on June 21 and July 3. This last one was flown by Hauptmann Wilhelm Balthasar, an ace of JG 2. Balthasar crashed and was killed. Ortmans was awarded the C de G (Belg) (21.7.41). On August 18 he destroyed a Bf 109, on the 19th he damaged a Bf 109 during an escort operation, then crashed into the sea and was picked up by an ASR launch. Later in the month Ortmans was again in the sea and was rescued by the same launch. On the 29th he damaged a Bf 109. He was awarded the DFC in September. On a sortie to Boulogne on October 21 1941, Ortmans claimed two enemy aircraft shot down and another probably destroyed. He was then himself shot down in combat with Bf 109s and he baled out, badly wounded. He spent two days and a night in his dinghy before being picked up by the Germans and becoming a PoW. Ortmans was killed on August 8 1950 as a result of a flying accident. He was in an Auster Autocrat that crashed at Schaffen airfield, near Diest, Belgium.

WC 14.8.42

HAROLD CHARLES ORCHARD 523288

23 Squadron

British 65 Squadron

Orchard was born in Weymouth on December 26 1916 and was educated at Holy Trinity School and Weymouth Central Boys’ School. He joined the RAF on August 26 1935, as an Aircraft-hand and trained as a Fitter. On July 24 1939 he remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot. He did his elementary training at 7 E&RFTS, Desford and moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 15 Course, which ran from October 9 1939 to April 10 1940. With training completed, Orchard joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on April 20. On August 5 Orchard probably destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 18th he shared in the probable destruction of two He 111s. On August 27 the squadron was rested and moved north to Turnhouse. It moved back south to Tangmere on November 29 1940. During a sweep to attack the aerodrome at St Omer on February 5 1941 Orchard was shot down and killed. He is buried in Neufchatel New Cemetery, Neufchatel-Hardelot.

PO 19.7.40 FO 19.7.41 FL 19.7.42

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

JERZY ORZECHOWSKI 76825

FL

Pilot

Polish

Squadron at Acklington. He continued on Operations Room duties until September 16 1942, firstly at 303 Squadron and then at 302. He was then posted to 308 Squadron at Heston, for flying duties. Ostaszewski-Ostoja went to 306 Squadron at Catterick on June 1 1943. He was posted to 12(P) AFU at Grantham on August 17, for conversion to Blenheims, after which he went to 51 OTU, Cranfield for night-fighter training. On February 8 1944 Ostaszewski-Ostoja joined 85 Squadron at West Malling, flying Mosquitos. A number of squadron postings followed; to 125 Squadron on April 30, to 501 Squadron on August 15 and to 307 Squadron on September 25. Ostaszewski-Ostoja was awarded a Bar to the KW (30.12.44). On April 23 he was posted to HQ 12 Group, as Ops Night, a Wing Commander post. After being attached to HQ 11 Group from May 28 1945, Ostaszewski-Ostoja went to HQ 229 Group South-East Asia. He was with 78 Squadron from December 12 1945, on transport duties. He was awarded a second Bar to the KW (5.1.46). He returned to the UK in July 1946 and then served with 301 Squadron on transport work from October 26 until its disbandment on December 10 1946. Ostaszewski-Ostoja was released at the end of the year as a Wing Commander. He settled in England and changed his surname to Raymond.

615 and 607 Squadrons

Orzechowski was born on May 12 1905. He was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool from June 1 1940, to await a posting. He was posted to 303 Squadron at Northolt on September 16 1940 but was then sent on to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 21st. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick on October 3 and then to 607 Squadron at Turnhouse on the 10th, for training. Some other moves followed, to 306 on the 22nd, to 245 on November 15, back to 615 on the 29th and then to 308 Squadron at Baginton on December 5, as a supernumerary Squadron Leader. Orzechowski was made joint CO of 308 Squadron on the 8th and he led it until June 23 1941, when he was posted to RAF Middle Wallop. On July 23 he went to HQ 81 Group, as Polish Liaison Officer. Preparing for a return to operations, Orzechowski was posted to 51 OTU, Cranfield on August 13 1942, for night-fighter training. He joined 23 Squadron at Bradwell Bay on September 25. Orzechowski was given command of 307 Squadron at Exeter on April 1 1943. He was awarded the KW and two Bars (7.7.43). On September 11 he probably destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged three others. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (20.10.43) and posted away to the PAF Staff College on November 7 1943, for a course. Awarded the DFC (15.5.44), Orzechowski went to HQ Fighter Command on October 20 1944 and was Polish Air Attaché in Paris from May 1945 until returning to HQ Fighter Command on September 10 for liaison duties. Orzechowski was released from the PAF in January 1947 as a Wing Commander. He settled in Canada and died there in 1988.

PO 27.1.40 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.9.42

ANTONI OSTOWICZ 76705

Pilot

British

213 and 3 Squadrons

Osmand was at St Paul’s School and became a student at Imperial College, London from 1935 to 1938, reading Electrical Engineering at the School of Mines. He joined the RAFVR in December 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742753). Called up on September 1 1939, Osmand completed his training and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 1 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 213 Squadron at Wittering on June 17. On August 11 the hydraulic system of his Hurricane, N 2708, was damaged by return fire from a Ju 88 engaged over Portland. He crashed on landing back at base. Two days later he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed. He moved to 3 Squadron at Castletown on September 14 and was posted to CFS, Upavon on October 10 1940, for an instructor’s course. He was killed on October 20 1943 as a Flight Lieutenant with 261 Squadron, operating in Hurricane 11cs in Burma. A force of 50 Japanese aircraft raided Chittagong airfield. Seven aircraft were scrambled by 261 and three were shot down, resulting in the death of Osmand. He was 28 and is buried in Chittagong War Cemetery.

40639

Pilot

Polish

FO

Pilot

British

609 Squadron

Overton was born at Navenby, Lincolnshire on September 25 1919. His father farmed the Blankney estate. He was educated at St Hugh’s School, Woodhall Spa and Denstone College, Staffordshire. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham on January 17 1938. He moved to 8 FTS, Montrose on April 9 and with the course completed, he was posted to the School of Naval Cooperation at Ford on October 29 1938. In late September 1939 Overton joined 17 Squadron at Debden. He became ill and on recovery he moved to 609 Squadron at Drem on November 28 1939. Over Dunkirk on May 31 1940 he destroyed a Bf 109 and shared a He 111. Overton damaged a Ju 88 on July 18, destroyed a Bf 110 and probably another on August 12 and destroyed two Ju 87s on the 13th. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on February 22 1941 and soon after he was posted to 59 OTU, Crosby-on-Eden, as an instructor. In December 1941 Overton joined 145 Squadron at Catterick, as a Flight Commander. He went with it to the Middle East in February 1942 and took command in April, at Helwan. It became operational in early June, the first Spitfire squadron in the Western Desert. On June 3 Overton damaged a Bf 109 and on the 10th he destroyed one. He was posted away to 239 Wing, Desert Air Force in August 1942 and was awarded the DFC (6.10.42). After leaving the Wing, Overton was at HQ Desert Air Force as Wing Commander Ops. In late 1944 he was posted to Malta, as Training Officer. Overton returned to the UK in September 1945 and was released in June 1946, as a Wing Commander. He farmed for many years at Heath Farm, Wellingore, Lincolnshire and died in October 1998.

PIOTR OSTASZEWSKI-OSTOJA FO

145 Squadron

CHARLES NEVILL OVERTON

PO 12.5.40 FO 12.5.41 FL 12.5.42

76741

Polish

Ostowicz went from there to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 23. He converted to Hurricanes and joined 145 Squadron at Tangmere on July 16 1940. He shared in the destruction of a He 111 on the 19th, the first success of a Polish fighter pilot, flying with the RAF. He probably destroyed a Do 17 on July 31 and destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another on August 8. Ostowicz was shot down in combat with enemy fighters on August 11 1940, in Hurricane V 7294, which is believed to have crashed on the Isle of Wight. He was reported ‘Missing’, aged 29. He was awarded the KW and Bar (1.2.41) and is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt.

ALEXANDER GORDON OSMAND PO

Pilot

Ostowicz arrived in England in late 1939 and was commissioned in the RAFVR in January 1940, at RAF Eastchurch. He was on the Polish Training Unit at Hucknall in March 1940. The unit was redesignated 18 OTU on June 15 1940.

FL 3.5.40 SL 1.3.43 WC 1.9.44

79169

PO

609 Squadron

Ostaszewski-Ostoja was born on May 19 1910. He arrived in England in late 1939 and went to RAF Eastchurch, where he was commissioned in the RAFVR in January 1940. From June 1 1940, Ostaszewski-Ostoja was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool to await a posting. He converted to Spitfires at 5 OTU, Aston Down and joined 609 Squadron at Middle Wallop on August 5 1940. He claimed two Ju 87s probably destroyed on the 13th and a Bf 110 destroyed two days later. On August 25 Ostaszewski-Ostoja returned to Warmwell in Spitfire R 6986, badly damaged by cannon fire from a Bf 110 engaged over Swanage. With flaps damaged, he overshot the runway and crashed through the boundary hedge, slightly wounded in one arm. He was awarded the KW (1.2.41). Ostaszewski-Ostoja was posted away on March 7 1941, to the Operations Room of 317

APO 26.3.38 PO 17.1.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.1.44

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

ARTHUR ERNEST OWEN 800471

AC Radar Operator British

ROBERT WARDLOW OXSPRING 600 Squadron

40743

FO

Pilot

British

Owen, of Birmingham, joined 600 Squadron AAF on November 26 1936, as an Aircrafthand. He was called up on August 24 1939. It would appear that he did a radar course in 1940 and rejoined 600 Squadron.

The son of a 1914-18 War fighter ace, Oxspring was born in Sheffield on May 22 1919. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 7 1938 at 4 E&RFTS, Brough.

He served with the squadron until September 17 1942 with only one very short break. No further service details have been traced. Owen was discharged to the Class ‘A’ Reserve on December 12 1945

Oxspring went on to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on May 21. With training completed, he joined 66 Squadron at Duxford on December 17 1938. He joined 263 Squadron at Turnhouse on May 9 1940 but did not go to Norway with it. He rejoined 66 Squadron, then at Horsham St Faith, on May 18. On July 29 Oxspring shared in destroying a He 111. He became ‘B’ Flight Commander on September 5 and he was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on the 10th. On September 9 Oxspring destroyed a Do 17, on the 11th he claimed a He 111 destroyed, on the 15th two Do 17s destroyed and two He 111s damaged, on the 18th a Bf 109 destroyed and another damaged, on the 24th he shared in the probable destruction of a He 111, on the 27th shared in destroying a Bf 110 and damaging a Do 17, on the 30th he destroyed a Bf 109, on October 5 he destroyed a Bf 109 and a Ju 88 and on the 13th he probably destroyed a Bf 109. Oxspring was shot down by Bf 109s over Tunbridge Wells on the 25th and baled out, slightly injured. His Spitfire, X 4170, crashed into an orchard near Capel. He was awarded the DFC (8.11.40). Oxspring was posted to 59 OTU, Crosby-on-Eden in April 1941, as Instructor and Flight Commander. He returned to operations in September, joining 616 Squadron at Westhampnett but after only a week he moved to 41 Squadron at Merston, as a Flight Commander. In January 1942 Oxspring took command of 91 Squadron at Hawkinge. He was given command of 72 Squadron at Biggin Hill in July 1942 and on the 26th he probably destroyed a FW 190. He was detached temporarily to command 222 Squadron at Winfield in August and took part in operations over Dieppe. Awarded a Bar to the DFC (18.9.42), Oxspring led 72 Squadron to Gibraltar in November and on the 16th it flew to Algiers, beginning patrols the next day. On the 22nd Oxspring was shot down and made a forced-landing eight miles E of Beja. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another on November 25, shared a Ju 88 on the 26th, damaged a Mc 202 on the 29th, damaged a SM 79 on the 30th, damaged a Mc 202 on December 1, damaged a Bf 109 on the 3rd, destroyed another on the 5th and shot down a FW 190 on the 22nd. Oxspring destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another on January 2 1943, was awarded a second Bar to the DFC (16.2.43), damaged a FW 190 on February 28, shared a Bf 109 on March 1 and destroyed one and damged another on April 11. Later in the month Oxspring was posted to HQ 242 Group, situated in caravans and tents at Medjez, co-ordinating Army requests for air support. Later in 1943 Oxspring returned to the UK and went to HQ Fighter Command in the Tactics and Training Branch. He was promoted in March 1944 and appointed Wing Leader 24 Wing. Between June 23 and July 16 Oxspring destroyed 4 V 1s over London and Kent. In September 1944 he went to lead 141 Wing at Deanland and when it was disbanded, he was made leader of the Detling Wing. In May 1945 Oxspring was posted to CFE, Tangmere and later in the year he was sent for a course to the United States Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Oxspring was awarded the AFC (1.1.49). He later served as Secretary of the Battle of Britain Fighter Association. In 1965 he was one of the participants in the Battle to march in Sir Winston Churchill’s funeral procession. He retired from the RAF on February 29 1968 as a Group Captain. He died in 1989.

HENRY OWEN 56204

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

219 and 235 Squadrons

Born in Durham on June 4 1921, Owen joined the RAF on September 29 1938, as a Boy Entrant (552853). He went to No 1 Electrical and Wireless School at Cranwell and passed out as AC 1 in September 1939. After qualifying as an air gunner at No 1 Air Armament School at Manby in October, he joined 219 Squadron at Catterick. Owen was promoted to LAC in February 1940 and to Sergeant in May. He was posted away to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton in mid-July 1940. Owen was flying in a Blenheim, Z 5736, on August 24, when it was attacked by some Hurricanes of No 1 (RCAF) Squadron over Thorney Island. The aircraft was badly damaged and crashed on landing. Owen and his pilot, Sergeant K E Naish, were both unhurt. Owen left 235 in July 1941 and was sent on a flying boat conversion course. He joined 413 (RCAF) Squadron in October, to fly in Catalinas. In February 1942 he joined 240 Squadron, operated in Catalinas in the Mediterranean and later South-East Asia. He was rested in December 1942 and posted to the Communications Flight at Air HQ Bangalore. He later became a Wop/AG instructor on Vengeances at Peshawar, moving in May 1943, to instruct at the Gunnery School at Bhopal. Owen was commissioned from Warrant Officer and went on a Liberator conversion course in September 1944 and then joined 356 Squadron. He flew operationally in Burma, Malaya and Siam until May 1945. He went to Air HQ Burma in August and returned to the UK in March 1946. Owen retired from the RAF on July 15 1955, as a Flight Lieutenant. He worked in the UK on Flight Simulators and then emigrated to New Zealand in 1962. He died in 2008. PO 20.9.44 FO 20.3.45 FO 20.9.45 FL 4.1.51

WILLIAM GETHIN OWEN 103386

Sgt

Observer

British

66 Squadron

235 Squadron

Owen joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (747701). Called up on September 1, he completed a gunnery course at 3 B&GS and joined 235 Squadron at North Coates on March 23 1940, serving with it in the Battle of Britain. Owen’s flight of 235 Squadron was posted to Aldergrove on November 19 1940. There it combined with a flight of 236 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron on the 21st. Owen flew his first operational sortie with 272 on the 24th. He was commissioned in July 1941. He was awarded the DFC (20.7.45), as a Flight Lieutenant with 48 Squadron. Owen was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1987.

APO 7.5.38 GC 1.1.60

PO 31.7.41 FO 31.7.42 FL 31.7.43

397

PO 7.3.39

FO 3.9.40

FL 3.9.41

SL 1.1.44

SL 1.8.47

WC 1.1.53

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P ALAN GEOFFREY PAGE 74709

FO

Pilot

British

Page retired from the RAF on December 1 1948, as a Squadron Leader, and joined Vickers-Armstrong as a sales executive. He had the Order of Orange-Nassau. Page founded the Battle of Britain Memorial Trust with the intention of creating a National Memorial to “The Few”. The memorial took the form of a seated airman, with no indication of rank, nationality or aircrew trade visible and was unveiled at Capel-le-Ferne on the cliffs between Folkestone and Dover on July 9 1993 by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. Page received the OBE in 1995 and died on August 3 2000.

56 Squadron

Page was born at Boxmoor, Hertfordshire on May 16 1920. He was educated at Dean Close School, Cheltenham and Imperial College, London. Page studied Aeronautical Engineering. Whilst there, he learned to fly at Northolt, with the University Air Squadron.

PO 3.10.39 FO 3.10.40 FL 3.10.41 SL 12.10.44 SL 1.8.47

Called to full-time service in mid-September 1939, Page was posted to 3 ITW, Hastings in October. He was granted a direct-entry commission in the RAFVR on October 3. He went to RAF College FTS, Cranwell for No 6 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 9 1940. At the end of the course, Page was posted to No 1 Flying Practice Unit at Meir, for further training. On May 18 he was posted to 66 Squadron but on June 3 he moved to 56

ANTHONY DURRANT PAGE 745566

Sgt

Pilot

British

111 and 257 Squadrons

Page joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 6 FTS, Little Rissington on No 19 Course, which ran from April 27 to August 3 1940.

Squadron at Digby. On July 13 Page destroyed a Bf 109, on the 20th he shared a Ju 88 and on the 25th destroyed a Ju 87. During an attack on Do 17s ten miles N of Margate on August 12, Page was shot down and baled out, badly burned. He was rescued by tender and transferred to the Margate lifeboat. His Hurricane, P 2970, crashed in flames two miles off Epple Bay. Page was in hospital for over two years. He underwent plastic surgery at Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead and was a founding committee member of the Guinea Pig Club. In late 1942, with a limited flying category, he was posted to an army co-operation squadron in Wales. After three months Page applied for another medical board and was given an AIB category. He was posted to 132 Squadron at Hornchurch in early 1943, as a supernumerary Flight Lieutenant. He volunteered for service in North Africa but after three months there, the heat of the sun was too much for his grafted skin. Page returned to England and was posted to AFDU at Wittering. On June 29 1943, in company with Squadron Leader J A F MacLachlan, he flew a Mustang on a daylight sortie, during which he destroyed two Hs 126s and shared a Ju 88. On a second sortie on July 18 MacLachlan did not return. Page was awarded the DFC (30.7.43). After a further spell at East Grinstead, he was posted to 122 Squadron, as a Flight Commander. In January 1944 Page was given command of 132 Squadron at Detling. On April 26 he shared a Ju W34 and on the 29th he shot down a Bf 110. In June Page took 132 Squadron to France. On the 18th he damaged a FW 190. On this day Page was promoted to Acting Wing Commander and appointed Wing Leader of 125 Wing. On July 12 1944 he shared a Bf 109, on the 14th destroyed a FW 190 and damaged another and on July 20 and September 26 he shot down Bf 109s. Page was awarded a Bar to the DFC (22.8.44). At the end of September Page crashed on landing, injured his face on his gunsight and fractured his back. He was flown back to England and taken to the Queen Victoria Hospital at East Grinstead. He was awarded the DSO (29.12.44), credited with fifteen enemy aircraft destroyed. In January 1945 Page was sent on a lecture tour to the USA. He returned to the UK in April and went into hospital to have a piece of cannon shell removed from his leg that had been there since August 1940. Fit again, Page was attached to Vickers-Armstrong at Weybridge, as a test pilot. Granted a Permanent Commission in 1946, Page was selected for a course at the Empire Test Pilots’ School. It was postponed and after a Senior Officers’ Administration Course, he was posted as PA to the senior RAF Officer on the Military Staff Commission at the UN in New York.

He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 3 and after converting to Hurricanes, Page joined 111 Squadron at Debden on August 31 and made his first flight with it on September 8. He made a forced-landing on the 23rd, in Hurricane R 4226. Page’s last flight with 111 was made on the 27th and he moved to 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on September 28. He made his first flight there on October 2. Page was killed on November 8 1940, when his Hurricane, V 6870, crashed and burned out in Day’s Cornfield, Stelling Minnis during a squadron patrol. He was 21 and is buried in Folkestone New Cemetery, Hawkinge.

ARTHUR JOHN PAGE 745411

Sgt

Pilot

British

257 and 111 Squadrons

Page, of Horton Kirby, Kent, joined the RAFVR about February 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 17 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 257 Squadron at Debden on September 1. He made his first flight on the 5th and flew his first sortie on the 7th. He made another sortie on that day and it was his last with 257 and he went to 111 Squadron at Drem on the 9th. Page made his first flight with 111 on the 10th and his last flight on the 27th. During this period he flew no operational sorties. His postings after leaving 111 Squadron are unknown. He joined 101 Squadron at Oakington from 12 OTU, Benson on September 6 1941, to operate in Wellingtons. He was killed on October 24 1941, as a Flight Sergeant, failing to return from Frankfurt, in Wellington X 9828. Page was 25. He is buried in Ostende Communal Cemetery, Belgium.

CYRIL LESLIE PAGE 37205

FL

Pilot

British

145 and 234 Squadrons

Joined the RAF on a short service commission in April 1935. Page was posted to 2 FTS, Digby on May 7 and on completion of the course, he joined the staff at the School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum. Page joined 16 (AC) Squadron there on June 21 1938.

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writing the aircraft off. In the action he shared in the destruction of a Do 17. He was still with the squadron on December 1 1940. Commissioned in May 1941, Page was killed on November 16 1943, as a Squadron Leader with 126 Squadron, operating in Spitfires from Grottaglie, Italy. He was 29 and is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 6, Column 1.

He joined 145 Squadron at Westhampnett on July 31 1940, as a supernumerary, for flying duties. He was attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 3, for a refresher course and conversion to Hurricanes. He returned to 145 Squadron on August 16 and on the 19th he joined 234 Squadron at Middle Wallop, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. Page assumed temporary command of 234, a Spitfire squadron, on September 7 until the 22nd, when he took back command of ‘A’ Flight. Page was posted away to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum on November 21 1940. He commanded 174 Squadron at Manston and Fowlmere from May to August 1942. He was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Squadron Leader.

PO 1.5.41 FO 18.3.42 FL 5.8.42

JOHN FRANCIS PAIN 43291

PO

Pilot

Australian

32 Squadron

Pain is believed to have been born in Scotland and taken to Australia as a child. His mother married Sir Alan Mansfield, Governor of Queensland from 1966 to 1972.

APO 16.4.35 PO 16.4.36 FO 16.1.38 FL 16.1.40 SL 1.3.42

VERNON DOUGLAS PAGE 65502

Sgt

Pilot

British

601 and 610 Squadrons

Accepted as a candidate for an RAF short service commission, Pain sailed for England on August 30 1939 in the SS Orama. He arrived at 9 EFTS, Ansty on October 16 for his ab initio course. He moved on to RAF College FTS, Cranwell for No 9 Course, which ran from April 10 to July 14 1940. With flying training completed, Pain arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 15. After he had converted to Hurricanes, he joined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on July 29. Pain claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed and a Ju 88 damaged on August 15, destroyed a Ju 88 on the 16th and on the 18th he destroyed a Do 17 and probably another. On this day, in an engagement over Biggin Hill, Pain was shot down in flames by Bf 109s, in Hurricane P 3147. He baled out, wounded, landed near Horsmonden and was admitted to hospital. He did not return to his squadron until October 31 1940. Pain was posted to 249 Squadron at North Weald on November 29 but on December 18 he left and soon after embarked on the aircraft carrier HMS Furious. He flew off to Takoradi and then flew a Hurricane along the ferry route to Egypt in stages, arriving at Abu Sueir on January 16 1941. Pain flew a Hurricane to Malta on January 29 and joined 261 Squadron at Ta Kali. On February 1 he claimed a Ju 88 destroyed, on the 4th probably another, on the 12th a probable Bf 109 and a Ju 88 damaged, on the 25th a Bf 110 damaged, on the 26th a Do 215 probably destroyed and a Bf 109 damaged, on March 5 a Bf 110 probably destroyed and a Do 17 shared, on March 18 a CR 42 destroyed and probably another, on April 20 another CR 42 destroyed and probably a second and at night on May 15 a He 111 destroyed. In early May 1941 Pain returned to the Middle East and was posted to ADU, Takoradi. He was with 73 Squadron in the Western Desert in 1942. On July 3 he destroyed a Bf 109, probably a Ju 87 and damaged another, and on the 10th he damaged a CR 42. After a short spell with 123 Squadron in Persia, Pain returned to England, commanded 26 AACU in 1943 and later in the year he was at 20 MU. In late March 1944 Pain resigned his commission and returned to Australia. He changed his name to Brooker-Pain in 1972. He died on September 12 1980.

Page was born at Oldcroft in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire on December 14 1913. He grew up in Blakeney and went to the village school there, where his father was a teacher. He won a scholarship to Rendcomb College, near Cirencester and matriculated from there in 1931. He did an apprenticeship with the English Electric Co at Stafford and then worked there as a transformer designer. In November 1938 he joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742443) and he had completed 50 hours on Magisters at 28 E&RFTS, Meir at the outbreak of war. Called up on September 1, Page was posted to 3 ITW, Hastings, completed his elementary flying training at 18 EFTS, Fair Oaks and then went on to Harvards at 6 FTS, Little Rissington. At the end of the course, Page went to CFS, Upavon for an instructor’s course, but in September 1940 he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden, to convert to Spitfires. An administrative error sent him on September 30 to a Hurricane Squadron, 601 at Exeter, where he carried out three operational sorties before it was discovered he was overdue at 610 Squadron at Acklington. After arriving there on October 18, Page carried out one more sortie before the Battle of Britain officially ended on the 31st. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on March 5 1941. Commissioned in April 1941, Page was posted to 54 Squadron at Hornchurch. Whilst with the squadron, he spent six weeks in hospital after being injured in a forced-landing near Whitstable due to enemy action. On June 22 1941 Page destroyed a Bf 109, another on July 4 and two more on July 23. In December 1941 Page was posted to 61 OTU, Heston, as an instructor. In 1942 he went on a gunnery instructor’s course at CGS, Sutton Bridge, after which he was posted to the Middle East in August. Page joined 127 Squadron in the desert near Alamein. In January 1943 the squadron moved to Haifa, with a detached flight in Cyprus. In October 1943 Page was posted to India, where he joined 11 Squadron at Madras, then in the process of converting from Blenheims to Hurricanes. In December 1943 the squadron moved to the Arakan, to support the Army opposing the Japanese offensive. In March 1944 it went to Tulihal, on the Imphal plain, remaining there during the siege, when all road access was cut and all supplies came in by air. Awarded the DFC (19.5.44), Page was posted to the Ground Attack School at RAF Ranchi in October 1944, as an instructor. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (3.4.45) and repatriated to the UK. Page was appointed CGI at 61 OTU, Keevil and held this job until being released from the RAF in August 1946, as a Squadron Leader. He was officially credited with 4 enemy aircraft destroyed and one probable. Page returned to English Electric and in November 1948 he joined 611 Squadron, RAuxAF at Woodvale, as a Flight Commander. He flew Spitfire XXIIs until 1950, when he emigrated to Australia. Page became Chief Designer and later Chief Engineer and Manager of English Electric in Australia. He retired in 1978. He died in 2002. In 2011 a plaque was unveiled in his memory at Rendcomb College.

APO 10.4.40 PO 14.7.40 FO 14.7.41 FL 14.1.43

FREDERICK GEORGE PAISEY 78753

PO

Air Gunner

British

235 Squadron

Paisey joined the RAFVR in April 1940, with a direct-entry commission as an Air Gunner. He was on No 12 Air Gunnery Course at 7 B&GS, which ran from May 6 to June 1 1940. With training completed, he was with 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton in early July 1940. He later retrained as a pilot and was awarded the DFC (17.7.45), as an Acting Wing Commander with 354 Squadron at Cuttack in India. The citation stated that he had shown great skill and courage in low-level attacks on enemy shipping and had been responsible for the destruction of two of the six ships sunk by the squadron. Paisey was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Wing Commander.

PO 9.4.41 PO 9.4.42 FL 9.4.43 FL (RAuxAF) 14.11.48 APO 12.4.40 PO 1.6.40 FO 1.6.41 FL 1.6.42 SL 20.6.45

WILFRID THOMAS PAGE 65992

Sgt

Pilot

British

JAN PALAK

1 Squadron

793341 Page, of Epsom, Surrey, joined the RAFVR in January 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741246). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 1 1940.

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

302 and 303 Squadrons

Born on February 12 1911, Palak was in France in 1940 and served with l’Armée de l’Air. He reached England in July 1940. He was enlisted in the RAFVR and went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting.

After converting to Hurricanes, he joined No 1 Squadron at Wittering on September 27. He made his first flight with the squadron on the 29th, flying practice. In an engagement with a Do 17 on October 29, in Hurricane P 3318, the glycol system was damaged by return fire and Page made a forced-landing at Orton, near Peterborough,

Palak joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield on July 23 1940 and probably converted to Hurricanes on the squadron. He claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed and shared a Do 17 on September 15. He went

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JERZY HIPOLIT PALUSINSKI

to RAF Duxford with a detachment of 302 Squadron on September 13. The detachment operated with the Bader Big Wing until returning to Leconfield on September 25. However, Palak was posted and he joined 303 Squadron at Northolt on the 23rd. He destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged a Bf 110 on October 5. Palak damaged a Ju 88 on April 20 1941. He was awarded the KW (1.2.41) and Bar (10.9.41). On January 25 1942 he went to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as an instructor. A return to operations came on June 29 1942, when he rejoined 303 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey. Promoted to Warrant Officer on September 1 1942, Palak went to the squadron’s Operations Room on September 11 1943. He was awarded a second Bar to the KW (20.10.43). He moved to the Northolt Operations Room on November 23 and remained there until April 18 1944, when he rejoined 302 Squadron, then at Deanland. Palak was posted to 411 Repair and Salvage Unit on March 18 1945, as a test pilot. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (1.6.45) and the DFC (10.4.46).

P 1388

Sgt

Pilot

British

17, 43 and 249 Squadrons

WILHELM PANKRATZ 76662

Pilot

Polish

145 Squadron

Pankratz went to 15 EFTS, Redhill in mid-March 1940 and remained there as a flying instructor. On April 23 he joined the Polish Training Unit at Hucknall, which was redesignated 18 OTU on June 15 1940. Pankratz was posted from 18 OTU to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge and arrived there on June 23 1940, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 145 Squadron at Tangmere on July 16. Pankratz was reported ‘Missing’ after a combat S of the Isle of Wight on August 12 1940, in Hurricane R 4176. He shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 and damaged a Bf 109. No claim was made because Pankratz and the other two pilots in his section, Sergeants J Kwiecinski and J H Harrison were both shot down immediately afterwards. Pankratz is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt. He was awarded the KW (1.2.41). PO 5.1.40

GEOFFREY CHARLES RUSSELL PANNELL 391856

Sgt

Pilot

New Zealander

3 Squadron

Pannell was born in Christchurch on August 22 1913. After leaving Waitaki Boys’ High School, he went farming with his father. He was accepted for a short service commission in late March 1939 but the scheme lapsed at the outbreak of war. On December 17 Pannell went to the Ground Training School at Weraroa. He was posted to No 1 EFTS, Taieri on January 15 1940 and moved to No 1 FTS, Wigram on March 11. After completing his training, he was promoted to Sergeant on June 28. Pannell sailed for the UK on July 12 in the RMS Rangitane and after arriving on August 27 he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting. He was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 10 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 3 Squadron at Turnhouse on the 29th. Pannell joined the newlyreformed 260 Squadron at Castletown on December 6 1940 and on May 16 1941 he was posted to 41 Squadron at Catterick. Pannell went to 91 Squadron at Hawkinge on July 16 1941 and was to serve with it, on and off, over the next two years. Commissioned in August, he went on a six weeks’ attachment to 111 Squadron at North Weald on the 31st. Pannell destroyed Bf 109s on October 27 and 28 1941 and another on April 6 1942.

NORMAN NELSON PALMER British

PO

Pankratz was born on October 1 1903. He was commissioned in the PAF before the war and arrived in England in late 1939. He was commissioned in the RAFVR in January 1940 at RAF Eastchurch.

PO 24.4.41 FO 24.4.42 FL 24.4.43 FL 1.9.45

Observer

303 Squadron

FO 1.3.41 FL 1.9.42

Palliser was posted to 3 ITW, Hastings, moved to 11 EFTS, Perth on December 5 and went to 6 FTS, Little Rissington for No 19 Course, which ran from April 27 to August 3 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 3 and after converting to Hurricanes, Palliser joined 17 Squadron at Debden on August 31. He flew no operational sorties with the squadron and moved to 43 Squadron at Tangmere on September 5. He made his first flight there on the 7th, local flying. Palliser joined 249 Squadron at North Weald on September 14. He shared in destroying a Do 17 on the 15th, damaged a Do 17 on the 21st, destroyed a Bf 110 and probably another on the 27th, damaged a Do 17 on October 21 and destroyed a Bf 109 on November 7. He was shot down on December 5 by Bf 109s after a long patrol and crashed with no fuel left. On February 4 1941 Palliser shared a Bf 110 and on the 10th shared in the probable destruction of a Bf 109. Commissioned in April 1941, he embarked with 249 Squadron on HMS Furious on May 10 and sailed for Gibraltar, where it transferred to HMS Ark Royal. The Hurricanes flew off on the 21st to Ta Kali, Malta. During the night of June 7/8 Palliser shared in the probable destruction of a SM 79, on the 12th shared a Z 506B, on the 18th shared a Mc 200, on the 19th he shared a SM 81, on December 20 destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged a Bf 109 and on the 24th he shared in destroying two Ju 88s. On January 8 1942 Palliser joined 605 Squadron at Hal Far, as a Flight Commander. He was awarded the DFC (30.1.42) and posted from Malta on February 26, arriving at 25 Air School, Standerton, South Africa on March 28, to be an instructor. Palliser was posted to 62 CFS, Bloemfontein on July 17, to 2 EFTS, Randfontein on October 19 and then to 4 EFTS, Benoni on September 27 1943. He was admitted to Baragwanath Military Hospital in Johannesburg on January 21 1944 and remained there until leaving for the UK on May 24. From September 2 1944 Palliser instructed at 15 EFTS, Carlisle. He moved to 10 FTS, Woodley on September 19 1945, instructed there until March 16 1946, going then to CFS, South Cerney. In October Palliser was posted to instruct at the flying school at Heany, Southern Rhodesia. In October 1947 Palliser left the RAF and settled with his family in South Africa, moving later to Australia. He died on September 24 2011.

Sgt

Polish

In August 1940 Palusinski was in England and on the 21st he joined 303 Squadron at Northolt. He was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 27, where he crashed Hurricane L 1821 on September 21. After converting to Hurricanes, he rejoined 303 on September 27. On October 7 he may have destroyed a Bf 109 but he did not make an official claim. Apart from two attachments, to 308 Squadron at Woodvale from February 19 1942 and to 306 Squadron at Kirton-inLindsey from May 25 1942, Palusinski stayed with 303 until September 21 1943, when he was posted to 316 Squadron’s Operations Room at Acklington. In early November 1943 Palusinski went on to Administration and Special Duties. He was posted to HQ 84 Group on September 7 1945 and was released from the PAF in January 1947. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (31.10.47). Palusinski settled in England and took up pig-farming. He died in 1984.

Palliser was born in West Hartlepool on January 11 1919 and educated at Brougham School there and later a Technical School. He joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (751910), and did some flying at 32 E&RFTS before being called up to full-time service at the outbreak of war.

748710

Pilot

Palusinski was born on August 13 1912 and was in the PAF before the war. On September 1 1939 he destroyed a Do 17 and probably another, flying with 111 Eskadra.

GEORGE CHARLES CALDER PALLISER 64891

PO

248 Squadron

Palmer joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot, but he later remustered as an Airman u/t Observer. Called up on September 1, he completed his training as an Observer and joined 248 Squadron at Sumburgh on September 25 1940. He was killed on February 8 1942, as a Flight Sergeant with 407 (RCAF) Squadron, a Hudson maritime-reconnaissance unit. He was a member of the crew of an aircraft tasked to intercept a convoy reported sailing south from Terschelling. Another crew reported seeing an aircraft coming under flak and light ground fire near the coast and this may have been the Hudson containing Palmer. He was 21 and he is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 75.

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When 611 Squadron was at Digby in August 1940, Parker flew an operational sortie with it on the 21st and thus qualified for the Battle of Britain clasp. He flew with Green section, to patrol Mablethorpe at 11,000 feet. A He 111 was intercepted ten miles NE. Green 2, Pilot Officer C H MacFie and Green 3, Sergeant S A Levenson both opened fire and damaged the enemy aircraft. Parker was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Group Captain, and made an OBE (1.1.46). In December 1947 he was appointed Honorary Air Commodore in the AAF, immediately before it was given Royal assent and renamed RAuxAF.

He was rested on April 20 1942 and posted as a test pilot to Morris Motors at Cowley, flying rebuilt Spitfires, new Tiger Moths and Masters. Pannell was awarded the DFC (29.6.42), being then credited with two enemy aircraft destroyed and several more damaged. On September 26 1942 Pannell rejoined 91. He was awarded the C de G (Fr) (20.1.43), for distinguished services to Free French pilots in operations. He was posted to Cowley on July 12 1943, to organise the 84 Group Communications Squadron there. The expansion of the unit to twelve aircraft led to Pannell’s being promoted to Acting Squadron Leader and taking formal command on March 1 1944. He went to 33 Squadron at Carpiquet on August 20, as supernumerary Flight Lieutenant, moved to 222 Squadron in the same capacity on September 12 and was then posted to the Communications Squadron at Northolt on November 25, as a Flight Commander. Pannell was posted away on July 5 1945 for repatriation to New Zealand. He disembarked at Lyttelton on October 22 and went on to the Reserve on January 25 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on May 3 1980. Pannell’s service career was unusual, in as much as he never had a posting or went on a course of a non-flying nature. By the end of the war he is said to have had five confirmed victories, four more enemy aircraft probably destroyed and five damaged.

PO (RAFO) 9.10.31 FO (RAFO) 9.4.33 SL (AAF) 10.2.36 SL 24.8.39 WC 1.1.40 GC 1.7.43 Hon AC (AAF) 8.12.47

KENNETH BRUCE PARKER 742267

Sgt

Pilot

British

64 and 92 Squadrons

Parker, of Worthing, Sussex, joined the RAFVR in October 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He worked as a chief clerk for the London Assurance Company.

PO 17.8.41 FL 1.4.42 FL 1.5.43 Called up on September 1 1939, Parker completed his training and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield on the 17th and flew his first sortie on the 22nd. Parker moved to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill on the 24th and damaged a Bf 109 on the 30th. On October 15 1940 Parker was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 109s over the Thames Estuary. His Spitfire, R 6838, is believed to have crashed into the sea. Parker was 25. He is buried in the Terschelling General Cemetery, Netherlands.

THOMAS ROBERT VERNER PARKE Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

Pilot

British

804 Squadron

Parke entered the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on May 1 1939, as a Midshipman (A). He did his elementary flying training at 14 EFTS, Elmdon. He moved on to No 1 FTS, Leuchars for No 6 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to April 21 1940.

THOMAS CAMPBELL PARKER

Parke joined 804 Squadron at Hatston on July 4 1940, flying Sea Gladiators on dockyard defence. He remained with the squadron when it reformed for service on the Fighter Catapult Ships in March 1941. In the early days many difficulties were experienced with launchings. On July 7 1941 Parke was launched in a Fulmar from HMS Pegasus. It was a day of low cloud, poor visibility and rain and no enemy aircraft was engaged. Parke failed to return to land. Later in the day it was learned that he had crashed into high ground S of Campbeltown, on the Mull of Kintyre. Both he and his gunner were killed. Parke was 21. He is buried in Kilkerran Cemetery, Campbeltown.

70812

Pilot

British

616 and 66 Squadrons

Parker joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748255) and was called to full-time service at the outbreak of war. After completing his training, he arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 616 Squadron at Kirton in-Lindsey on September 23. He moved to 66 Squadron at Gravesend on October 13. On January 30 1941 Parker was posted to 57 OTU, Hawarden, as an instructor. He left there on an overseas posting on October 23 1941 and landed at Aden on January 4 1942. Parker joined 229 Squadron in the Western Desert and went with it to Malta in March 1942. In May he was transferred to 185 Squadron at Hal Far and was commissioned in July. He destroyed Bf 109s on July 2 and 20 1942. Parker returned to the UK in August 1942 and was posted to 53 OTU, Llandow, as an instructor on Spitfires. He went to CFS, Montrose for a course in April 1943 and from August onwards he was training Free French pilots in intermediate and advanced flying, up to OTU standard. He was released from the RAF in November 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 7.7.42 FO 7.1.43 FL 7.7.44

IAN ROBERTSON PARKER 90335

WC

Pilot

British

British

79 Squadron

He began his ab initio course at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble on September 23 1937, as a pupil pilot in the RAFO. Having successfully passed, he then went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on November 23, where he was commissioned into the RAFO next day. On December 11 Parker and other newly-commissioned officers were posted to 8 FTS, Montrose for No 8 Course. With the course completed, he joined 29 Squadron at Debden on July 9 1938. When his training year was completed, Parker returned to civilian life on September 23 1938. Parker joined 79 Squadron on February 6 1939, for six months continuous training. He applied for a short service commission and after acceptance, he did a refresher course. He was commissioned and reposted to 79 Squadron at Biggin Hill on September 1 1939. The squadron was ordered to France on May 10 1940 and went to their new base at Merville, beginning patrols next day. On the 12th Parker was shot down by return fire from a Do 17 and obliged to bale out, landing at St Trond, in enemy-occupied territory. He was given civilian clothes by Belgian civilians and a bicycle, on which he caught the retreating Belgian rearguard. He managed to rejoin his squadron. On May 16 1940 he destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 18th he damaged two Do 17s. On the 20th Parker was shot down, whilst strafing German columns, and made a forced landing on Vimy Ridge. He set fire to his aircraft and made his way to Arras, where he gave the Scots Guards their first warning of the closeness of the Germans. In the evening of the 20th, the remaining seven Hurricanes of 79 Squadron returned to Biggin Hill. The ground party arrived on the 22nd, landed from the SS Biarritz at Dover. On June 7 Parker probably destroyed two Bf 109s and on the 27th his aircraft was damaged in an attack by three Bf 109s, which he evaded by diving to almost sea level. On August 15 1940 Parker shared in the destruction of a Do 17 and a Bf 110, on the 28th shared in the probable destruction of a He 59, on September 4 he damaged two Bf 110s and on the 21st damaged a Ju 88. In February 1941 he was posted to the newly-formed 52 OTU at Debden. The unit moved to Aston Down on August 1 1941. Parker was appointed Navigation Officer, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. He later invented a map-reading trainer, which was adopted and named the Parker Naviscope. On April 10 1942 Parker took command of 242 Squadron at Turnhouse, where it was reformed after its decimation in Java. In September Parker took part in a publicity tour, talking to future aircrew, after which he was posted to India in February 1943. He went first to 224 Group, on the operational staff, before taking command of 67 Squadron at Chittagong in April 1943. He led it until July 8 1944, when he returned to 224 Group, as Wing Commander Ops, with the rank of Acting Wing Commander. On September 1 1945 Parker transferred to the Reserve, whilst still remaining on the Active List. He returned to England in October and was given command of RAF Kenley. He was made an OBE (1.1.46). On July 9 1946 he was granted an extension to his commission, with the rank of Squadron Leader. He was later granted a Permanent Commission. Parker passed the RAF Staff College course in 1950 and was promoted to Wing

DENIS KEITH PARKER Sgt

Pilot

Parker was born on September 1 1915 in Southampton and educated at Bromley County School, Kent. He worked in the family business, whilst studying for a Physics degree.

Midshipman 1.5.39 Actg Sub-Lt 2.7.40

128987

FO

611 Squadron

Parker was educated at Eton. He was commissioned in Class ‘AA’ (section ii) of the RAFO in October 1931, transferred to Class ‘C’ on October 9 1932 and transferred back to Class ‘AA’ on May 19 1933. When 610 Squadron, AAF was formed at Hooton Park on February 10 1936, he was given command. The squadron was then a light bomber unit, with Harts. Parker relinquished his commission in the RAFO and was commissioned in the AAF. On January 1 1939 610 was transferred to Fighter Command and Parker continued to command until January 7 1940, when he was promoted and posted away to be Station Commander at RAF Digby, as an Acting Wing Commander.

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and in February 1940 he was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose In May 1940 Parkin completed the course and went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 27th. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to RAF Hendon on June 6, for onward posting to France. Within a few days Parkin joined 501 Squadron there. In mid-June the squadron prepared to evacuate France. Parkin was flown to Caen, then to Dinard and two days later to Jersey, from where he sailed in a coal boat, with Pilot Officer R S Don, to Weymouth, arriving on the 17th. 501 re-assembled at Croydon on the 21st. At 17.40 hrs in the evening of July 30 1940 the squadron took off from Gravesend to carry out a patrol and landed at Hawkinge. At 21.25 hrs the squadron took off and patrolled as it returned to Gravesend, arriving at 21.50 hrs. Parkin’s aircraft had a starting problem at Hawkinge and he took off later, arriving at Gravesend in failing light. He undershot the runway and touched coiled barbed wire on the boundary. The Hurricane inverted and Parkin was injured. He was admitted to Gravesend Hospital and later transferred to RAF Hospital, Halton. He did not rejoin 501 until February 5 1941. With a non-operational category, he was posted away for an instructor’s course on April 16 1941 and was instructing until the end of the war. Parkin was released from the RAF in 1946, joined the RAFVR in 1947 and then rejoined the RAF in December 1953. He retired on April 21 1972, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on July 23 2008.

Commander in January 1951. He held a series of appointments and commands at home and overseas in the post-war years. After commanding the Administrative Wing at RAF Waddington, on October 1 1958 he was appointed Ops 2, Operational Plans Division of HQ Allied Air Forces Central Europe at Fontainbleau, eventually taking charge of the War Room. Parker relinquished this post on March 17 1961 and took up his final post, as Permanet President Courts Martial. He retired from the RAF on September 13 1962, as a Wing Commander. APO (RAFO) 24.11.37 PO (RAFO) 23.9.38 PO 1.9.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.44 SL 1.9.45 WC 1.1.51

VINCENT PARKER 42356

PO

Pilot

Australian

234 Squadron

Born in Durham on February 11 1919, Parker was orphaned as a baby. He was adopted by an aunt and uncle in 1920. The family emigrated to Queensland in 1928. Parker was educated at Bohleville State School. After leaving, he went to Townsville, where he fell in with a magician, Les Levante, and began training as a magician. When Levante went to England, Parker went with him but soon returned to Australia. He made a second trip to the UK in late 1938. Whilst there, he applied for a short service commission in the RAF and was provisionally accepted. He began his ab initio course on May 30 1939. He moved on to 11 FTS, Shawbury for No 15 Course, which ran from September 24 1939 to April 10 1940. With training completed, he joined 234 Squadron at Leconfield on April 10. Over Portland on August 15, Parker was shot down by Bf 110s and baled out near the Isle of Wight, injured. After some hours in the sea, Parker was picked up by a German launch and taken to Cherbourg. His Spitfire, R 6985, is believed to have crashed into the Channel. Parker was flown to Dulag Luft at Oberusel, near Frankfurt, a temporary holding centre for captured Allied airmen (PoW No 476). He was still at the camp in May 1941, probably one of the ‘permanent staff ’, who initiated new prisoners into the procedures of captivity. On June 1 1941 eighteen PoWs, including fourteen ‘permanent staff ’, tunnelled their way out. All were recaptured after an extensive search by 3,000 police and security personnel. It is very likely that Parker was one of the escapees. In April 1942, following attempts to escape, he was sent to Oflag IVc at Colditz, where he had a reputation as an expert with locks, ever ready to help would-be escapers. Released by the Americans in mid-April 1945, Parker returned to England. After leave, he was posted to Milfield, to go on to Tempests. He was killed in a flying accident on January 29 1946 at Duddo, near Milfield, in Tempest EJ 859 of 56 OTU. His rank then was Flight Lieutenant. Parker is buried in Stonefall Cemetery, Harrogate, Yorkshire.

PO 26.5.40 FO 26.5.41 FL 26.5.42 FO (RAFVR) 30.6.47 FL 23.12.54

CECIL PARKINSON 741376

Sgt Pilot

British

238 Squadron

Parkinson, of Coundon, Coventry, joined the RAFVR in March 1938. He was called to full-time service on September 1 1939 and was sent to 8 FTS, Montrose for No 8 Course, which ran from December 10 1939 to May 10 1940. He joined 238 Squadron at its reformation at Tangmere on May 16. On July 11 Parkinson shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 of 9/ZG 76 with Flying Officer D C McCaw of 238 and Pilot Officer H J Mann of No 1 Squadron. The enemy aircraft made a forced-landing at Grange Heath, Lulworth. Two days later Parkinson shared in the destruction of a Do 17, which crashed into the sea off Chesil Beach. On July 20 1940 he was shot down in flames in combat over the Channel fifteen miles S of Swanage, in Hurricane P 3766. Parkinson baled out and was picked up by HMS Acheron but died from his injuries the next day. He was 25 and is buried in St Michael’s churchyard, Stoke, Coventry.

APO 22.7.39 PO 10.4.40 FO 10.4.41 FL 10.4.42

DENIS GEACH PARNALL WILLIAM BERT PARKES 143727

Sgt

Pilot

British

70522

Parkes went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 6 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 74 Squadron at Wittering on the 17th. He remained with the squadron until April 16 1941, when he was posted to SHQ Manston.On September 30 Parkes joined 11 Group Flight at Croydon, engaged on calibration of radar, searchlights and anti-aircraft defences. On December 11 1942 Parkes went to AFDU at Duxford and was commissioned in February 1943. He was posted to 2 FIS, Montrose on December 9 1943 and then went to 14(P) AFU at Banff, as an instructor, moving to 5(P) AFU at Ternhill on August 16 1944. Granted a Permanent Commission, Parkes joined 613 Squadron AAF on May 17 1946, as Flying Instructor and Adjutant. He resigned his commission on May 3 1950.

ERIC GORDON PARKIN British

249 Squadron

He was granted a Permanent Commission in the RAF in September 1938, as a University Entrant. Parnall was appointed Personal Assistant to the AOC Reserve Command on April 15 1939. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 6 1940 and after converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 249 Squadron at Leconfield on May 28. On July 8 Parnall shared a Ju 88, on August 15 he destroyed a Bf 110 and on September 2 he destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged two others, on the 7th he shared in the destruction of a He 111, on the 11th shared another and on the 15th he probably destroyed a He 111 and damaged a Bf 109. He was shot down and killed during a patrol over Gravesend on September 18 1940. His Hurricane, V 6685, crashed and burned out by the A12 road, near Furness Farm, Furze Hill, Margaretting, Essex.Parnall was 25. He is buried in the churchyard of St Genesius, at St Gennys. Land at Crackington Haven, close to the family home, was presented to the National Trust in 1959 by Wing Commander A G Parnall, brother of D G Parnall. A plaque at the site states that this gift was in memory of Denis Parnall, “and all who gave their lives in the Battle of Britain 1940”.

PO 18.2.43 FO 18.8.43 FL 18.2.45 FL 18.8.46

PO Pilot

British

Parnall was the son of George Geach Parnall who had left the family business in Bristol and founded Parnall Aircraft Ltd. He had a home at Trevigue, St Gennys, Cornwall. D G Parnall was born in 1915. He went to Clifton College and Downing College, Cambridge, where he read Mechanical Sciences. A member of the University Air Squadron, he was commissioned in Class ‘AA’ of the RAFO in December 1936. He relinquished this and transferred to the RAFVR in January 1938.

Born on April 27 1919, Parkes joined the RAFVR on July 23 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754058) and began his elementary flying training at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty. Called to fulltime service on September 13, he later went to 3 ITW at Hastings, moved on to 15 EFTS, Redhill on November 22 and was posted for intermediate and advanced training to 5 FTS, Sealand on April 27 1940.

79734

FL Pilot

74 Squadron

501 Squadron

Born on April 21 1917, Parkin joined the RAFVR on September 13 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741993), and he then began his elementary flying training at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley.

PO (RAFO) 8.12.36 PO (RAFVR) 1.1.38 PO 3.9.38 FO 3.12.38 FL 3.9.40

Called to full-time service on September 3 1939, he went to 4 ITW, Bexhill in November

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STUART BOYD PARNALL 90844

PO

Pilot

British

attempting to make a forced-landing in Kent. At the time of his death, he was serving with 29 Squadron at West Malling, as a Flight Lieutenant. He was 24 and is buried in Maidstone Cemetery, Kent.

607 Squadron

Parnall, of Walthamstow, Essex, joined 607 Squadron, AAF in early 1939. Called to full-time service on August 24, he went from 607 to 7 FTS, Peterborough for No 12 Course, which ran from October 9 1939 to March 6 1940.

APO 9.8.37 PO 31.5.38 FO 29.2.40

PETER LAWRENCE PARROTT 41054

With training completed, he arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on March 24 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, Parnall joined 263 Squadron at Filton on April 21. He embarked on the carrier HMS Glorious on May 11, for the squadron’s second expedition to Norway. On the 26th Parnall destroyed a He 111 near Bardufoss. On June 7 263 flew its Gladiators on to HMS Glorious, which was sunk en route the next day by German battleships. Parnall must have returned in one of the evacuation ships. He rejoined 607 Squadron at Usworth on June 24. He probably destroyed a Bf 110 on August 15. On September 9 1940 Parnall was shot down and killed over Mayfield, in combat with Do 17s and Bf 109s. His Hurricane, P 3574, crashed at Lime Trees Farm, Goudhurst. He was 30 years old and was cremated at Golders Green Crematorium, Hendon, where his name appears on a bronze panel. Parnall’s brother, James, was killed, as a pilot in France, on May 14 1940, aged 34. He was CO of 504 Squadron. He is buried in Belgium.

Wop/AG

British

29 Squadron

Parr, of Macclesfield, Cheshire, joined the RAFVR about May 1939 as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called to full-time service on September 1, he completed his training and joined 29 Squadron in early October 1940. He began operating with 29 as a Wop/AG but by the end of November Parr had retrained and was flying as a Radar Operator. He was killed, as a Flight Sergeant, still with 23 Squadron, on November 7 1941, when Havoc BD 124 crashed into the sea off Worthing after stalling during a night flying test. He was 22 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 37.

LESLIE ALFRED PARR 67605 Sgt

Pilot

British

British

145 and 605 Squadrons

He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield on June 27 1938. He was posted to 11 FTS, Shawbury on September 3 and after completing his training, Parrott went to No 1 Armament Training School at Catfoss on March 30 1939, towing targets. On September 27 1939 Parrott went to No 1 Air Armament School, Manby, as a staff pilot. He was posted to 11 Group Pool at St Athan on December 28, converted to Hurricanes and then joined 2 Ferry Pilot Pool on January 22 1940. Parrott joined 607 Squadron in France on January 29 1940. He claimed three He 111s destroyed, another two shared and one damaged on May 10, and a He 111 probably destroyed and another shared on the 11th. He was jumped by Bf 109s near Louvain on the 13th and had his radio shot to pieces. Parrott shared a probable Do 17 on May 16, went on leave on the 17th and at home on the 19th he received a telegram, posting him to 145 Squadron at Tangmere. On the 22nd he damaged a Bf 110 over Arras. On the 26th, over Dunkirk, he probably destroyed a He 111 but was hit by return fire. Heading home, his engine seized as he crossed the coast and he made a crash-landing in a field at Great Mongeham, near Deal. On July 3 1940 Parrott shared a probable He 111, on the 15th shared a probable Do 17, on the 18th shared a He 111, on August 8 destroyed a Bf 109 and a Ju 87 and on the 12th destroyed a Ju 88. He was posted to 605 Squadron at Croydon on September 27 and awarded the DFC (22.10.40). On November 1 Parrott damaged a Bf 109. Acting as weaver on December 1, he was jumped by a Bf 109 and his Hurricane, Z 2323, damaged. He dived to 3000 feet and fearing fire, he baled out over East Hoathly, landed in a field and was found by a farm labourer. Parrott was posted to CFS, Upavon on April 21 1941, for an instructor’s course, after which he went to 9 FTS, Hullavington on May 26. He moved to 5(P) AFU, Ternhill on March 22 1942, to instruct, and joined the Handling Squadron at Hullavington on September 1, to prepare pilots’ notes. As a preliminary for a return to operations, Parrott went to 57 OTU, Eshott on May 11 1943, for air-firing practice and up-to-date procedures. He joined 501 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on June 1. Parrott was posted overseas on July 16 1943, arrived at Safi, Malta on August 1 and then joined 72 Squadron at Pachino, Sicily on the 10th, as a supernumerary. Eight days later he went to 111 Squadron, also at Pachino, as a Flight Commander. Parrott destroyed a Mc 202 on September 4. He was given command of 43 Squadron at Capodichino, Naples on October 13 1943. On November 26 he shared in destroying a Ju 88 and on February 17 1944 he damaged a Bf 109. He led the squadron until March 6 1944, when he was posted to the Middle East. After a course at the Air Bombing and Gunnery School at El Ballah in April, Parrott was appointed OC Gunnery at 73 OTU, Abu Sueir on May 2. He returned to Italy in early November 1944 and took command of 72 Squadron at Rimini on the 11th. He was posted away to HQ Desert Air Force, Italy on February 15 1945 and was awarded a Bar to the DFC (20.3.45). Parrott became Group Training Inspector, Fighters and later Wing Commander Ops. He returned to the UK in June 1946. He was awarded the AFC (1.1.52) and retired from the RAF on July 10 1965, as a Wing Commander. Parrott died on August 27 2003.

DOUGLAS JOHN PARR Sgt

Pilot

Born in Aylesbury on June 28 1920, Parrott was educated at Lord William’s Grammar School.

APO 26.2.39 APO 24.8.39 PO 23.3.40

751383

FO

79 Squadron

Born on March 14 1914, Parr joined the RAFVR about May 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741607). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed training at FTS in early May 1940 and got to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 8. After converting to Hurricanes, Parr was posted to 79 Squadron at Biggin Hill on July 9 and on August 30 he shared in destroying a He 111. He remained with the squadron until August 25 1941. Commissioned in May 1941, Parr stayed on in the RAF and qualified in Fighter Control. He retired on March 14 1969, as a Wing Commander. Parr died in 1986. PO 25.5.41 FO 29.5.42 FL 29.5.43 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.7.51 WC 1.7.54

DENNIS THOMAS PARROTT 40011

FO

Pilot

British

APO 20.8.38 P0 27.6.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.44 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.1.54

19 Squadron, 421 Flight

Parrott, of Muswell Hill, North London, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 31 1937.

REGINALD JAMES PARROTT 748634

Parrott was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose on August 21 and with training completed, he joined 9 Squadron at Stradishall on July 11 1938, flying in Heyfords. He went to 4 (C) Ferry Pilot Pool from 7 B&GS on May 17 1940, to 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 15, converted to Spitfires and then joined 19 Squadron on July 31. Parrott destroyed a Bf 109 on September 27. On October 14 1940 he joined 421 Flight at Hawkinge. He was slightly injured on the 19th, when he made a forced-landing at Clement Street, Old Swanley, in Hurricane Z 2352. Parrott joined 306 Squadron at Ternhill on December 13 and went to 91 Squadron, formerly 421 Flight, at Hawkinge on January 11 1941. He destroyed a Ju 88 in the DoverFolkestone area, observed by the crew of HMS Wasp to crash into the sea. On January 23 1941 Parrott was posted from 91 to 65 Squadron at Tangmere. In the early hours of June 22 1941, Parrott was killed, in Beaufighter R 2240, whilst

Sgt

Pilot

British

32 and 46 Squadrons

Parrott joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training, possibly at 9 FTS, and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 9 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 32 Squadron at Acklington on September 30. He was posted to 46 Squadron at Stapleford Tawney on October 31. Parrott shared in the destruction of a Fiat Br 20 on November 11, with pilots of 257 Squadron. On December 20 he was posted from 46 to 257 Squadron at Coltishall. Parrott was killed on May 5 1941, as a Sergeant with 257. He was 25 and is buried in the churchyard of St Mary and St Andrew, Whittlesford, Cambridgeshire.

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EDWARD PARRY 1052458

AC

Radar Operator

British

February 23 and using ferry aircraft, he eventually arrived at Freetown and sailed from there to the UK on March 27 1943. Soon after arrival at West Kirby, Parsons was repatriated to New Zealand. After an attachment to the Air Department, he went on to the Reserve on October 16 1943, as a Warrant Officer. Parsons died in Auckland on October 4 1977.

23 Squadron

Parry enlisted in the RAFVR around September 1939. Presumably at some time he volunteered for aircrew duties and completed a radar course, after which he joined 23 Squadron at Ford in September 1940. He made his first operational sortie on September 23, a night interception patrol, with Sergeant J S Rose, pilot and Sergeant B Capel, air gunner. He made his last sortie with 23 on December 7 1940. No further service details traced.

JOHN GRAHAM PARSONS 143773

Sgt

Observer

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

604 Squadron

Parsons was called up on September 3 1939, posted to 8 Civil Air Navigation School at Sywell on October 16, moved to 9 Air Observer Navigation School at Squires Gate on November 25 and then completed his training at 3 B&GS, Aldergrove. He was awarded his brevet, promoted to Acting Sergeant and then joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on March 23 1940. Parsons served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain, operating in Blenheims on bomber-escorts, long-range fighter patrols or reconnaissance sweeps along the English Channel. On April 5 1941 Parsons was posted to 2 B&GS, Millom, as an armament instructor. He was promoted to Warrant Officer on April 1 1942. Commissioned in January 1943, he was appointed Bombing Leader in April and on December 6 he was posted to No 1 Staff Pilots Training Unit at Cark. Parsons was released from the RAF on January 26 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He rejoined the RAFVR in February 1950 and served with it until February 1955.

Parry joined the RAFVR in February 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 604 Squadron at Middle Wallop on September 4 1940. No further service details traced.

CLAUDE ARTHUR PARSONS 748043

Sgt

Pilot

British

610 and 66 Squadrons

Parsons, of Halterworth, Romsey, Hampshire, worked in the Vickers-Armstrong Supermarine factory at Eastleigh. He joined the RAFVR about April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 27 1940. After converting to Spitfires, Parsons was posted to 610 Squadron at Gravesend on June 15 1940. Off Cap Gris Nez on July 9, Parsons and his flight commander shared in the destruction of a Do 17. On the 24th he damaged a Do 17, on the 25th he probably destroyed a Bf 109, on the 29th he damaged a Do 17, on August 14 he probably destroyed a Ju 87 and on the 18th he destroyed a Do 17 and was then himself shot down by a Bf 109, wounded. Parsons went to 66 Squadron at Kenley on September 10. He destroyed a He 111 and damaged a Do 17 on the 15th and destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged a Bf 110 on the 27th. He was wounded on February 14 1941 and admitted to hospital after his Spitfire, P 7670, was attacked and damaged by Bf 109s. Parsons was killed on August 20 1941, as a Flight Sergeant with 66 Squadron, on a sweep over Holland. He was 27 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 37.

PO 26.1.43 FO 26.7.43 FL 26.1.45 FO (RAFVR) 21.2.50

PHILLIP TREVOR PARSONS 90491

Sgt

Air Gunner

New Zealander

FO

Pilot

British

504 Squadron

Parsons, who came from Exeter, went to Charterhouse School and Downing College, Cambridge, where he read Engineering. He joined 504 Squadron, AAF in 1938 and he was commissioned in October. Called to full-time service on August 26 1939, Parsons completed his training and rejoined 504 at Debden in April 1940. The squadron went to France on May 12 and was withdrawn to Manston on May 20. Parsons damaged a Bf 109 on May 15, damaged a Ju 88 on the 16th and destroyed a Hs 126 on the 17th. The squadron moved north to Wick on May 24, moved in June to Castletown, then to Catterick on September 1 1940 and to Hendon on September 5. On the 15th Parsons destroyed two Do 17s and damaged a He 111. On April 2 1941 he destroyed a He 111. He was killed on October 2 1942, in a flying accident in Mosquito DD 639. Parsons was then a Squadron Leader with 264 Squadron. He was 25 and is buried in the churchyard of St John the Baptist, Colerne.

EDWIN ERNEST PARSONS NZ 40627

235 Squadron

Joined the RAFVR on April 14 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (747705) and he was regraded LAC on the 15th. This procedure ensured that demotion could take place if disciplinary action was required.

MONTAGUE EDWARD PARRY 743083

British

23 Squadron

Parsons was born in Auckland on December 25 1913. After leaving school, he was employed as a bookbinder in Napier. He volunteered for aircrew duties in late 1939 and reported to the Ground Training School at Weraroa on February 13 1940, as a trainee air gunner. In mid-March Parsons went to the Air Observers’ School, Ohakea for a Lewis gunnery course and air experience. He sailed for the UK on April 26 in the RMS Rangitiki and arrived on June 8 1940. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting. On July 17 Parsons was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down and promoted to Sergeant. After converting to Blenheims, he was awarded his air gunner’s badge and he then joined 23 Squadron at Ford on September 24, with a total of 28 hours and 55 minutes in his flying logbook. After months of unsuccessful night patrols, the squadron began night intruder operations in late December 1940. On one such operation to Merville aerodrome on February 25 1941, the Blenheim in which Parsons was gunner probably destroyed two He 111s. Parsons left 23 Squadron on March 2 1942 and joined 116 Squadron at Hendon, on radar calibration duties. On May 11 he was posted to 1653 Conversion Unit at Polebrooke, to convert to Liberators. His crew reported to 1445 Flight, Lyneham on July 3, to pick up an aircraft and then fly overseas. They left for Gibraltar on the 15th, reached Fayid, Egypt on the 16th and were at St Jean, Palestine on the 17th, where they joined 160 Squadron. On the 21st Parsons flew on his first long-range operational flight, a daylight raid on Heraklion, Crete. On January 15 1943 the squadron was disbanded and some of the personnel, including Parsons, formed the nucleus of the new 178 Squadron. Parson’s crew flew their thirtieth and final operation on the 17th. He left Shandur on

APO (AAF) 31.10.38 PO 21.7.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

CYRIL WOOLRICH PASSY 72028

FO

Pilot

British

605 Squadron

Born on February 27 1917, Passy was at Marlborough College from 1930 to 1935 and won a School Scholarship to Trinity College, Cambridge, where he obtained a BA in Modern Languages. He was commissioned in the RAFVR in November 1937 and called to full-time service on October 10 1939. Passy completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on March 24 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 605 Squadron at Wick on April 27 1940. On August 15 he made a forced-landing one mile from Usworth after a combat off the East coast, in Hurricane P 3827, unhurt. In the engagement Passy destroyed a He 111. He shared in destroying a Bf 109 on October 7, probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 15th and on the 26th he made a forced-landing at Town Row

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Green, Marks Cross, in Hurricane P 3737, damaged in combat. Passy was shot down by a Bf 109 on December 1 and baled out, with a slight wound in the leg. He was posted to RAF Cranage on the 18th, to join 96 Squadron, about to be formed there from 422 Flight. In May 1942 Passy joined 46 Squadron at Idku, in Egypt. His radar operator, Sergeant G H Ward accompanied him. On October 15 1942 they were posted to 89 Squadron at Abu Sueir. On the night of December 2/3 1942 Passy and Ward destroyed a He 111, on December 20/21 they destroyed a Do 217 and a Ju 88 and on February 8/9 1943 they destroyed a He 111. Passy was awarded the DFC (12.2.43). He took command of 89 Squadron on June 10 1943 and he was posted away on July 19. He did not return to operations. Passy was made an OBE (14.6.45) and retired on June 4 1947, as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. He died in 1971.

with training completed, he joined 46 Squadron at Digby on February 19 1938. Paterson relinquished his RAF commission and was commissioned in the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on February 10 1939. In September Paterson was with 803 Squadron but on November 30 1939 he joined 804 Squadron at Hatston. He embarked on the carrier HMS Glorious with an 804 detachment on April 22 1940. He transferred to HMS Furious on May 9 and was engaged in ferrying 263 Squadron’s Gladiators from Prestwick to Furious on May 12 and to and from Norway on to Furious on May 14 to 23. He flew off Furious on the 23rd, to Hatston, where 804 re-assembled and came under Fighter Command control. In July 1940 he was flying Sea Gladiators from Hatston, on dockyard defence. On September 20 1940 Paterson was with Blue Section of 804, when it was embarked on HMS Furious. Fighter patrols were carried out 100 miles off Trondheim. The section was disembarked by air from Furious and it returned to Hatston on September 23. He left 804 in October, for an Armament Course. In 1941 Paterson was assigned to the auxiliary fighter-catapult ship SS Springbank. In the early hours of September 27 U-Boat U 201 torpedoed and seriously damaged the Springbank, 700 miles WSW of Fastnet. Paterson swam to an escorting frigate, HMS Jasmine, which later sunk the wreck of the Springbank. Paterson’s next posting was to 885 Squadron, on the carrier HMS Victorious. He later served in the carriers HMS Argus, Ark Royal, Eagle and the escort-carrier Dasher. On March 27 1943 the Dasher was lost off the Clyde. With flying completed for the day, aircraft were being refuelled, when spilt aviation fuel exploded. Paterson jumped into the sea and was picked up by a destroyer. After the war he converted to helicopters. He was made an MBE (16.2.54) for Greek earthquake relief operations and awarded the DFC (31.5.55) for operations in Malaya, with the Royal Marine Commandos and the SAS. Paterson retired in 1959, as a Lieutenant Commander. He died on July 12 2004.

PO (RAFVR) 16.11.37 FO 16.5.39 FL 24.3.41 SL 1.6.42 SL 1.9.45

LUDWICK WITOLD PASZKIEWICZ P 0042

FO

Pilot

Polish

303 Squadron

Paszkiewicz was born on October 21 1907 at Wola Galezowska, S of Lublin. Called up for military service in 1931, he completed a flying course and then served with an Air Force unit in Warsaw, as a cadet officer. In 1932 he went to the Air Force Cadet Officers’ School at Deblin. He had further training and was commissioned in 1934. After advanced flying training, Paszkiewicz joined 112 Eskadra. In August 1939 he went to France with the Polish Military Purchasing Mission, to test-fly French fighters. He was still there on September 1, when the Germans invaded Poland. Paszkiewicz did not return to his country and later joined l’Armée de l’Air. In 1940 he served with Groupe de Chasse III/2 and led the Polish section of G de C II/8. When France fell, he made his way to England and was sent to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. Paszkiewicz was one of the original pilots of 303 Squadron, when it was formed at Northolt on August 2 1940. On the 9th he wrecked Hurricane P 3645 in a taxying accident. He destroyed a Do 17 on the 30th. This enemy aircraft was shot down whilst Paszkiewicz was on a training flight. He broke away from the squadron formation to attack it. Back at Northolt he was given a reprimand and then congratulated. It was 303’s first victory. On September 7 Paszkiewicz claimed two Do 17s destroyed. He was appointed joint ‘B’ Flight Commander on the 10th. On the 11th he shot down a Bf 110, on the 15th a Bf 109 and on the 26th a He 111. He was himself shot down and killed on the 27th. His Hurricane, L 1696, crashed at Crowhurst Farm, Borough Green. Paszkiewicz is buried in Northwood Cemetery and remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt. He was awarded the VM (5th Class)(23.12.40), the KW (1.2.41) and the DFC (30.10.41).

APO 5.7.37 PO 10.5.38 Sub-Lt 10.2.39 Lt 10.5.40 Lt-Cdr 10.1.48

JAMES ALFRED PATERSON 36193

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

Pilot

New Zealander

92 Squadron

Born in Dunedin on October 16 1919, Paterson worked on his father’s farm. He was a trooper in the Otago Mounted Rifles, Territorial Army, from November 1936. In December 1937 he applied for an RNZAF short service commission and after acceptance, he began flying training at the Otago Aero Club, gaining his ‘A’ License on August 15 1938. Paterson was posted to No 1 FTS, Wigram on September 6. He began the course and was awarded his flying badge on December 17 1938. He completed his training and left for the UK on the Waimarama on April 17 1939. On arrival, he relinquished his RNZAF commission and was granted a short service commission in the RAF. Paterson was posted to 82 Squadron at Cranfield on June 3 1939, flying Blenheims. At the outbreak of war he went to 71 Wing in France, flying in Magisters on reconnaissance patrols and observation flights for the BEF. In late 1939 Paterson joined 226 Squadron at Rheims, flying Battles. In May 1940 he was detached to special duties, to supply hard-pressed squadrons with mail, medical supplies, petrol and despatches. After the French collapse in June, Paterson went with 226 Squadron to Northern Ireland. He volunteered for Fighter Command and after converting to Spitfires at 7 OTU, Hawarden, he joined 92 Squadron at Pembrey on July 16 1940. On July 24 Paterson shared in the destruction of a Ju 88. He shared another on August 19 and destroyed a Bf 110 on September 11. Later in the day he was shot down by Bf 109s and baled out, with clothes on fire and face badly burned. His Spitfire, R 6613, crashed NE of Ashford. Paterson insisted on flying again before he could see properly and made his next flight on September 17, a wireless test. On September 27 he took off with other Spitfires of 92, to intercept enemy aircraft. He was shot down in flames by Bf 109s near Maidstone and fellow-pilots saw him struggling to escape from his cockpit but he failed to do so and was killed. His Spitfire, X 4422, crashed and burned out at Sparepenny Lane, Farningham. Paterson is buried in Star Lane Cemetery, Orpington. He was made MBE (1.1.41) for his outstanding services in France in May 1940.

EDWARD PATEREK 793342

FO

302 and 303 Squadrons

Paterek was born on May 30 1910. He was a pilot in the PAF before the German invasion. He arrived in England in July 1940, after serving in France. He was enlisted in the RAFVR, as an AC 2 and then went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. He was promoted to Sergeant shortly after his arrival. Paterek joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield on July 23. He was one of a 302 Squadron detachment sent to Duxford on September 13 1940, to operate with the Bader Big Wing. He claimed a He 111 destroyed on September 15 and a Ju 88 on the 18th. It is believed that his aircraft was hit by debris from this enemy aircraft, causing him to make a crash-landing in Hurricane P 3086 at Sandon Lodge Farm, Danbury, unhurt. The detachment returned to Leconfield on September 25 but Paterek was posted from Duxford on the 23rd, to join 303 Squadron at Northolt. He went to 315 Squadron at Acklington at its formation on January 21 1941 and was awarded the KW (1.2.41). On a training flight on March 27 1941 Paterek collided with the aircraft flown by Flight Lieutenant Szulkowski (q.v.) and crashed into the sea close to the Bar Lightship, near Liverpool, in Hurricane V 7187. He was never found and is presumed to have drowned. Szulkowski was also killed. Paterek is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt.

APO 13.9.38 PO 20.5.39 FO 3.9.40

LEON FRED PATRICK BRIAN PATERSON Lieutenant (FAA)

Pilot

123303 British

Sgt

Pilot

British

222 Squadron

804 Squadron Patrick joined the RAFVR about December 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741168). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed training at 9 FTS, Hullavington, on No 17 Course, which ran from March 7 to June 29 1940.

Paterson was born on March 21 1919. He was educated at St Lawrence College, Ramsgate and after leaving, he worked with an insurance broker at Lloyds in the City of London. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham. He went to 7 FTS, Peterborough on July 17 and

Patrick seems to have been delayed after his course ended and he did not arrive at 5

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Leader. From October 1964 until April 1980 Patten worked as a civilian with NATO in France and Belgium. He died on December 24 2002 and his ashes are interred in the family plot at Odiham.

OTU, Aston Down until August 17. He converted to Spitfires and he then joined 222 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 31 1940. He made his first sortie next day. Patrick was posted away to 2 CFS, Cranwell on December 29 1940, presumably for an instructor’s course. He was commissioned from Warrant Officer in May 1942 and was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He rejoined the RAFVR in 1947 and served until 1951. Patrick died on October 23 1985.

APO 9.1.38 PO 25.10.38 FO 25.5.40 FL 25.5.41 SL 1.6.42 FL 22.6.47

LEONARD JOHN PATTERSON 741219

Radar Operator

British

604 Squadron

Patston joined the RAFVR in October 1939, as an Aircrafthand (906460). After training, he served in France with the AASF, as a ground radio operator. Back in England in June 1940, he volunteered for aircrew duties of a secret nature and went to No 2 Electrical and Wireless School at RAF Yatesbury, for a short radar course.

Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

British

British

804 Squadron

With training completed, Patterson joined 804 Squadron at Hatston on July 4 and served with it during the Battle of Britain period, flying Sea Gladiators on dockyard defence. Patterson later transferred to 802 Squadron, then forming at Donibristle for HMS Audacity, the first escort-carrier. In September 1941 Patterson was with the carrier, with six Martlet fighters aboard. She sailed for Gibraltar on September 13, with her first convoy, OG 74. On the 15th Patterson, on dawn patrol, sighted a Kondor, attacking the Walmer Castle.He attacked the enemy aircraft and a fellow-pilot, Sub-Lieutenant Fletcher, finished off the Kondor, shooting off its tail. On October 29 1941 Audacity sailed for Gibraltar, escorting convoy OG 76. The carrier ran into a gale and her flight deck was pitching 65 feet and she was rolling 16¡, as Patterson attempted to land his Martlet. As he touched down, the aircraft was caught by an upswing of the flight deck, missed the catching wires and skidded over the port side. The aircraft was lost but flotation bags in its wings inflated and kept the Martlet afloat, enabling Patterson to be rescued by the escort vessels. Sadly, Patterson was lost when the carrier was torpedoed and sunk by U-Boat U 751 NE of the Azores on December 21 1941, whilst escorting convoy HG 76. He is remembered on the Fleet Air Arm Memorial at Lee-on-Solent.

HUBERT PAUL FREDERICK PATTEN Pilot

Pilot

Patterson entered the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on May 1 1939, as a Midshipman (A). He carried out his elementary training at 14 EFTS, Elmdon. He moved on to No 1 FTS, Leuchars on No 6 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to April 21 1940.

PO 14.7.41 FO 14.7.42 FL 14.7.43

FO

501 Squadron

NORRIS HENRY PATTERSON

He joined 604 Squadron at Gravesend on July 10. During the Battle of Britain Patston flew with the squadron without flying brevet or rank. Eventually he was promoted to Sergeant. He retrained with the squadron, qualified as a Radio Observer and flew in Beaufighters. On April 4 1941 the weather clamped down and there being no airfield in range open for landings, Patston and his pilot baled out. In July 1941 Patston was commissioned and posted away to 54 OTU at Church Fenton, as an instructor. In 1943 he joined 85 Squadron and served with it until the end of the war. In the late evening of September 6 1943 Patston was flying with Flight Lieutenant C G Houghton. They shot down a FW 190, which crashed near Bury St Edmunds. He was awarded the DFC (9.11.43), having then assisted in the destruction of three enemy aircraft at night.He was Senior Navigation Officer with 85 Squadron in May 1945. Patston was released from the RAF later in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant.

40423

British

He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 10 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 501 Squadron at Kenley on September 2. He was shot down and killed by Bf 109s E of Hastings on November 28 1940. His Hurricane, P 5189, must have crashed into the sea. He was 23. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 18.

ARTHUR GEORGE PATSTON LAC

Pilot

Patterson, of Freeland, Oxfordshire, joined the RAFVR in January 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 2 FTS, Brize Norton on No 47 Course, which ran from April 28 to August 3 1940.

PO 1.5.42 FO 1.11.42 FL 1.5.44 FO (RAFVR) 3.10.47

103000

Sgt

64 Squadron

Patten was born on October 15 1917. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield on October 25 1937. He was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on January 9 1938 and with training completed, he joined 79 Squadron at Biggin Hill on August 20.

Midshipman 1.5.39 Actg Sub-Lt 14.3.40 Sub-Lt 25.12.40

PETER JOHN PATTERSON Midshipman (FAA)

In October 1938 Patten went to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course but became ill and did not graduate. After three months as supernumerary sick at Uxbridge, he joined 64 Squadron at Church Fenton on April 1 1939. Over Dunkirk on May 31 1940, Patten destroyed a Bf 110 and, flying from Kenley on July 10, he destroyed another and damaged two. On September 16 1940 he joined the newly-formed 307 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey, a Polish night-fighter unit with Defiants, as ‘B’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. In May 1941 Patten moved to 604 Squadron at Middle Wallop. In the early hours of July 5 1941, with Flight Sergeant D G Moody as radar operator, he intercepted and shot down a He 111, which crashed near Frome, Somerset. Patten remained with 604 until October, when he went to Exminster as GCI Controller. Patten was posted to 52 OTU, Aston Down in February 1943, for a Spitfire refresher course. In May he joined 276 (ASR) Squadron at Harrowbeer, as a supernumerary Squadron Leader, but was then posted to Air HQ Malta in June, where he served as Staff Officer Night Ops. In December 1943 Patten was attached to 108 Squadron at Luqa, a Beaufighter nightfighter unit, then went to HQ 242 Group, Taranto later in the month, as a staff officer with Fighter Operations. In April and May 1944 Patten was with 1435 Squadron at Rimini, as a supernumerary Squadron Leader, before joining 255 Squadron at Foggia, as a Flight Commander. During the night of July 1/2 1944 he destroyed a Ju 88. He returned to the UK in January 1945. Patten was at Air Ministry until September and then after a short spell on Mustangs at 61 OTU, Keevil, he was released from the RAF in October1945. He worked in the International Civil Aviation Organisation in Montreal and Paris from December 1945 until June 1949. Patten then rejoined the RAF, in the Fighter Control Branch. He retired early on May 28 1964, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron

Pilot

British

242 Squadron

Patterson entered the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on July 1 1939, rated as a Midshipman. He did his elementary flying training at 24 EFTS, Sydenham. He went to 7 FTS, Peterborough for No 7 (FAA) Course, which ran from December 11 1939 to May 27 1940. With the course completed, Patterson was attached to the RAF on June 15. He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden, converted to Spitfires and joined 242 Squadron at Coltishall on July 1. He was killed on August 20 1940, when his Hurricane, P 2967, dived vertically into the sea and exploded, five miles NE of Winterton during a squadron patrol, from an unknown cause. Patterson was 29. He is remembered on the Fleet Air Arm Memorial at Lee-on-Solent. Midshipman 1.7.39

ROBERT LAWSON PATTERSON 77529

PO

Pilot

British

235 Squadron

Patterson, of Wormit, Fife, was born on October 23 1913 and joined the RAFVR about September 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740698). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training, was commissioned and joined 235 Squadron at Manston in early 1940. On February 5 1940 he was detached to RAF Uxbridge for an R/T and Fighter Tactics

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destroyed a FW 190. He stayed with the squadron until September 8, when he took command of 485 Squadron at Caen-Carpiquet. In February 1945 the squadron was withdrawn to Predannack, to convert to Tempests. Pattison, tour-expired, was posted to a staff job at HQ 84 Group. He was awarded the DSO (20.3.45), the citation stating that within recent months he had destroyed many enemy vehicles and two enemy aircraft. After the war’s end, Pattison was based at Hanover. He was repatriated to New Zealand in January 1946 and released from the RNZAF, as a Squadron Leader. In June 2004 Pattison went to France for the 60th Anniversary celebrations of D Day. Whilst there he was created a Chevalier of the Legion d’Honneur. He died on September 11 2009.

course and from May 13 to 25 1940 Patterson was attached to the Blind Approach Training and Development Unit at Boscombe Down, on No 18 Course. He was captain of Blenheim N 3541, which failed to return from an operational sortie on July 18 1940. He and his crew of two, Sergeants L H M Reece, observer and R Y Tucker, gunner were reported ‘Missing’. Patterson was 26. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 9. PO 1.12 .39

ABERCONWAY JOHN SEFTON PATTINSON 40563

FO

Pilot

British

23, 616 and 92 Squadrons APO 26.10.39 PO 28.5.40 FO 28.5.41 FL 28.5.42

Born in Chelsea, London, Pattinson joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on November 29 1937. He was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on March 5 1938 and with training completed, he joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge on September 17.

KENNETH CLIFTON PATTISON 742457

JOHN DAVID PATTISON Pilot

Canadian

British

1 (RCAF) Squadron

Joined the RCAF on December 13 1938. Pattison reached the UK from Canada on February 28 1940, with 110 (RCAF) Squadron. He was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 19, converted to Hurricanes and joined No 1 (RCAF) Squadron at Northolt on August 31.

WILLIAM BLAIR PATTULLO

Pattison was posted from No 1 (RCAF) to 112 (RCAF) Squadron, a holding unit, on November 4 1940. He was with 419 (RCAF) Squadron in 1942 and was awarded the DFC (6.11.42), as an Acting Squadron Leader. Pattison returned later to Canada and commanded 145 (RCAF) Squadron at Dartmouth, Nova Scotia from March 1 to June 30 1945, when it was disbanded. Pattison was released from the RCAF on September 5 1945, as a Wing Commander.

43379

PO Pilot

British

Pilot

New Zealander

151, 249 and 46 Squadrons Pattullo’s entry into the RAF is not clear but he began an ab initio course on October 2 1939, as a pupil pilot. Records show that he was granted a short service commission in April 1940 and was trained at 2 FTS, Brize Norton on No 47 Course, which ran from April 28 to August 3 1940.

JOHN GORDON PATTISON 39931 PO

266 and 611 Squadrons

With the course completed, he went on to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on September 23 1940. Four days later, on the 27th, Pattison joined 611 Squadron at Digby. In the early evening of October 11 some Spitfires of 611 intercepted Do 17s. Pattison shot one down but was badly damaged by return fire. He crashed at Cooksey Green, near Kidderminster, in Spitfire P 7323. Critically injured, he was admitted to Barnsley Hall Military Hospital, Bromsgrove, where he died two days later, aged 27. Pattison is buried in Nottingham Southern Cemetery, West Bridgford. He is remembered on a memorial plaque at West Bridgford Junior School.

APO 19.2.38 PO 29.11.38 FO 29.7.40

FO

Pilot

Pattison joined the RAFVR on November 11 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 8 FTS, Montrose on No 20 Course, which ran from June 10 to August 31 1940.

On August 31 1939 Pattinson was with 25 Squadron at Northolt. He joined 3 Squadron at Croydon and moved on to 23 Squadron at Wittering on October 5 1939. He was posted from 23 to 616 Squadron at Coltishall on September 7 1940 and then to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill on October 11. He was shot down and killed by a Bf 109 in combat over Hawkinge on October 12 1940, the day after joining 92. His Spitfire, X 4591, crashed and burned out in Bartholomews Wood, Postling Wents. Pattinson was 21. He is buried in Parkestone Cemetery, Poole, Dorset.

C 957

Sgt

266 and 92 Squadrons He was at 7 OTU, Hawarden from August 10 to 26 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 151 Squadron at North Weald on August 26. On the 30th he claimed a Do 17 probably destroyed and he destroyed another on the 31st. On September 10 Pattullo was posted to 249 Squadron at North Weald and on the 11th he shared in destroying a He 111. He moved to 46 Squadron, then at Stapleford Tawney, on September 15 and on that day claimed a Do 17 destroyed. On the 27th he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed, damaged a Bf 109 and probably destroyed a Ju 88. After a patrol on October 25 1940, Pattullo crashed on to a house in Woodstock Avenue, Romford, in Hurricane V 6804. He was credited with damaging a Bf 109 on that day and he was possibly shot down in combat. Pattullo was rescued from the wreckage of his aircraft and admitted to Oldchurch Hospital, where he died from his injuries the next day, aged 21. He is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, North Weald Bassett, Essex.

Pattison was born at Waipawa on January 27 1917 and after leaving Wanganui Collegiate School, he went farming with his father. In January 1939 he enrolled in the Civil Reserve of Pilots and learned to fly at Bridge Pa, Hastings. At the outbreak of war Pattison volunteered for the RNZAF and went to the Ground Training School, Weraroa on October 26 1939. He was posted to 2 EFTS, New Plymouth on November 20 and then to 2 FTS, Woodbourne on January 15 1940. Pattison was awarded his flying badge on April 23, completed the course on May 28 and sailed for the UK on June 7 in the RMS Rangitata. On arrival, he went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting. On August 4 1940 Pattison was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on August 27. On his first operational patrol he became lost, ran out of fuel and crash-landed in a field bristling with anti-invasion obstacles, greeted by farm workers with pitchforks, who thought him a German. On September 11 Pattison was posted to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill. He was shot down by a Bf 109 on the 23rd, severely wounded in the thigh by a cannon shell. He was admitted to Preston Hall Hospital, Maidstone, spent eight months in various hospitals and did not rejoin 92 Squadron until June 1 1941. Pattison was posted away to 61 OTU, Llandow on July 4, as an instructor. On April 13 1942 Pattison joined 485 Squadron at Kenley. On a Hurri-bomber escort on the 26th, 485 was jumped by a large force of FW 190s. Pattison’s engine was hit and his cockpit filled with smoke. He managed to glide back across the Channel, baled out near Dungeness and was picked up by an ASR launch. Pattison was rested on June 1 1943 and on July 7 was appointed CFI at 56 OTU, Kinell. He returned to operations on March 3 1944, as a supernumerary Flight Lieutenant with 66 Squadron at North Weald. Awarded the DFC (16.5.44), Pattison destroyed a Bf 109 on July 7 and on August 12 he

APO 27.4.40 PO 10.8.40

FRANCIS DAWSON PAUL Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

Pilot

British

64 Squadron

Paul was born in Chelsea, London on February 18 1916. He was commissioned in Class ‘AA’ of the RAFO in August 1934, but he resigned his commission on May 5 1937 because of ill-health. He entered the Air Branch of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve on September 26 1939, with the rank of Temporary Sub-Lieutenant. Paul trained with 758 Squadron at HMS Raven at Eastleigh. After a short Fighter Course there from May 27 1940, he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on June 17 for No 1 Course, to convert to Spitfires. He was loaned to the RAF on June 23.

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ALEC DAWSON PAYNE

On July 1 Paul was posted to 64 Squadron at Kenley. On the evening of that day he shared in destroying a Do 17 S of Beachy Head. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on the 5th in combat over Rouen and made a forced-landing at Hawkinge on the way back. Paul claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on the 7th, two more destroyed and another probably destroyed on the 10th, a Bf 109 destroyed on the 13th and a Do 17 on the 24th. Paul destroyed another Bf 109 on the 25th. On this day he was shot down into the Channel, off the South coast, in Spitfire L 1035. He was picked up by a German E-boat, severely wounded. Paul died five days later. He is buried in Hardinghen churchyard, France.

745798

Wop/AG

British

235 Squadron

Pavitt was born on February 9 1917. He joined the RAF in June 1935, as an Aircrafthand (521008). When he joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on September 18 1940, he was a Sergeant Wop/AG. He flew his first operational sortie on the 21st. Commissioned from Flight Sergeant in September 1942, he stayed on in the RAF and retired on January 10 1958, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1972.. PO 16.9.42 FO 15.3.43 FL 19.12.44 FL 21.3.46 SL 1.7.52

OTTO PAVLU 117614

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

British

610 Squadron

Called up on September 6, he went to No 1 ITW, Cambridge in November. He continued to fly Tiger Moths at 22 EFTS there, moving later to a further flying course at RAF Yatesbury. Payne was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose for No 20 Course, which ran from June 10 to August 31 1940. He moved on to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 610 Squadron at Acklington on the 23rd. Payne joined 74 Squadron at Biggin Hill on December 3 1940. During a sweep on February 2 1941, he shot down a Bf 109 over Boulogne. On May 23 Payne crashed taking off on a night patrol and was admitted to hospital, with multiple injuries. He also suffered partial loss of memory and severe headaches, resulting from exposure to heat and bright light. On October 25 1941 Payne was posted to Kenley on Flying Control and Operations Room duties. In August 1942 he regained a flying category, A2B, which limited him to non-operational flying below 20,000 feet. Payne was posted to 108 RSU in North Africa in September 1942 but became unfit in the climatic conditions and returned to the UK in mid-1943. He went to Cranwell for a refresher course and on October 11 joined 3 ADF, later moving to 4 ADF. On January 14 1945 Payne was posted to 1561 Met Flight at Ikeja, near Lagos. He arrived back in the UK on November 11 1945 and was released from the RAF on January 27 1946, as a Warrant Officer. He later lived in Suffolk and died on December 16 2010.

HAROLD JOHN PAVITT Sgt

Pilot

Born in Croydon, Payne joined the RAFVR in May 1939. He began his flying training at 19 E&RFTS, Gatwick on July 9 1939 and soloed on the 18th.

PO (RAFO) 25.8.34 FO (RAFO) 25.2.36 Sub-Lt 26.9.39

50901

Sgt

1 Squadron

REGINALD IRVING PAYNE Pavlu was born on December 28 1915 at Rozstani. He was in the Czech Air Force when the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939 following which the Czechoslovak Air Force was disbanded. He was demobilised on the 17th.

1052320

AC 2

Radar

Operator

British 23 Squadron

Born in Treeton, Yorkshire on July 17 1909, Payne was educated at Treeton Council School. He went to work at Treeton Colliery and when the war came, he was in a reserved occupation, exempt from military service.

Pavlu made his way to France. He was required to join the French Foreign Legion for a five year period with the agreement that he would transfer to a French military unit if war was declared. He went to the Legion barracks, near Paris, pending a move onwards to the training base at Sidi-Bel-Abbes in Algeria. Prior to that move, war was declared and he was transferred to l’Armee de l’Air at Dugny, near Paris, in late 1939. On September 11 he was assigned to CIC Chartres for re-training on to French equipment following which he was assigned to GCII/3 at Connantre which was equipped with MS-406C fighter aircraft. When the Germans invaded France the speed of the Blitzkreig caused Pavlu’s unit to change airfields frequently as it retreated westwards and by mid June 1940 it was at La Salanque airfield, near Perpignan. On June 20 GCII/3 evacuated from France to Maison Blanche in Algeria and then, five days later, to Relizane, also in Algeria. When France collapsed the Czechoslovak airmen were released from service with l’Armee de l’Air and Pavlu, with other Czech airmen, travelled to Casablanca, Morocco, where they boarded a ship which took them to Gibraltar. Here, they transferred ships and sailed for Liverpool. On arrival in England, Pavlu went to the Czechoslovak transit camp at Cholmondeley and then transferred to the Czech Airmen’s Depot at Cosford, on August 3, where he was enlisted in the RAFVR. On September 14 Pavlu arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down for re-training on to Hurricanes. On the 18th he crashed on the aerodrome there, in Master N 7801, unhurt. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined No 1 Squadron at Wittering on October 4 and flew in the closing stages of the Battle of Britain. On December 15 the Squadron moved to Northolt and in February 1941, having moved to Kenley, was re-equipped with Hurricane Mk IIAs for its new role carrying out night intruder operations against enemy airfields in northern France. Pavlu was posted to Martlesham Heath to 54 Squadron on August 18. In November he was posted to 222 Squadron and in January 1942 to 65 Squadron. Pavlu was commissioned in March 1942. He was posted to 310 Squadron. Pavlu was killed on April 28 1943. He was flying Spitfire EE 635 while escorting an antishipping strike. A convoy, consisting of minesweepers and an armed trawler, was sighted ten miles west of Sept-Iles and 310 Squadron attacked the last three ships using cannon and machine guns. The attack was at masthead height and heavy flak was encountered. Pavlu’s aircraft was hit and crashed into the sea. His body was not recovered. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 128.

Payne enlisted in the RAFVR, as an Aircrafthand and was called up on June 27 1940, reporting to RAF Padgate for his initial training. Payne volunteered for aircrew duties and he did a course at Wittering, probably a short one on radar, and joined 23 Squadron, Middle Wallop on September 23. Two days later he was a member of the crew of Blenheim L 8369, on a night patrol. The captain, Pilot Officer E Orgias, reported that he was returning, with one engine running badly. He reached his base area at Middle Wallop but crashed near Broughton, Hampshire. Payne, Orgias and the gunner, Sergeant L R Karasek, were all killed. As Orgias was preparing to land, he may have stalled after turning away to make a wide approach into wind, possibly due to the failure of the port engine. Payne is buried in St Helen’s churchyard extension, Treeton. He was one of a number of aircrew, particularly radar operators, who flew operationally in the Battle of Britain without rank or flying badge, despite the fact that in some units COs sent their radar operators on short gunnery courses so they would qualify for the rank of Sergeant, as laid down in AMO 416 of June 27 1940.

ROY AINLEY PAYNE 77788

PO

Pilot

British

602 Squadron

Payne was born on July 14 1910 in Hornsey, London and worked for a motor dealer. He enlisted in Class ‘F’ (section ii) of the RAF Reserve on September 30 1935, for a fiveyear engagement, as an Airman u/t Pilot (700291). He learned to fly at the Civil Flying School, Hanworth, from November 23 1935, and later at Brough. It appears that Payne was called to full-time service on being commissioned in the RAFVR in early March 1940, as a Pilot Officer. He went to 9 FTS, Hullavington on March 7 1940 for flying assessment, then to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum, for a course. On April 26 Payne went to No 2 School of Army Co-operation, Andover, then joined 13 Squadron in France on May 14 1940, an army co-operation unit with Lysanders. He returned to England on May 27. Payne volunteered for Fighter Command in August 1940 and on the 21st he was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 602 Squadron at Westhampnett on September 3. Payne made his last operational sortie with 602 on September 17. The next day he was

PO 3.3.42 FO 3.9.42

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

posted to RAF Tangmere, as non-effective sick. He did not rejoin 602 and a Medical Board on November 27 1940 found him unfit for operational flying, confirmed by another on January 2 1941, which classified him as A1B. He joined 1401 Met Flight on November 24 1941, on flying duties. He moved to 1447 Flight on April 27 1942, again on flying duties. He was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on May 1 1942. Payne went to No 10 Radio School on December 14 1942, as a staff pilot in No 1 Flight. He became supernumerary on July 1 1943. He applied to resign his commission on October 28 1943. This was approved and he resigned his RAFVR commission, with effect from January 25 1944. Payne was killed on April 16 1947, flying a Proctor from Guernsey to England. The aircraft crashed into the Channel near Saint-Jouin-sur-Mer. Two other people on board died, including a two-yearold girl, and one survived.

He joined 235 Squadron at Manston on January 22 1940. On May 12 he destroyed a Bf 109 in the Hague-Hook of Holland area, on June 27 he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another over the Zuider Zee, on August 3 he shared in the destruction of a He 115, on the 11th he shared a Bf109 and on the 18th he destroyed a Ju 88 over Thorney Island. Peacock was awarded the DFC (13.9.40). On November 19 1940 Peacock’s flight of 235 was posted to RAF Aldergrove, where it joined a flight from 236 Squadron on the 21st, to reform 272 Squadron. His first sortie with 272 was on November 23. In May 1941 Peacock went with 272 Squadron to the Middle East. In mid-August 1942 he was one of a 272 detachment, which flew its Beaufighters from Egypt to Luqa, Malta. On August 20 1942 the detachment was the nucleus to reform 227 Squadron. The squadron left Malta for Egypt in early 1943. Peacock was killed on February 5 1943, as a Squadron Leader with 227, aged 25. He is buried in Tobruk War Cemetery, Libya.

PO 7.3.40 FO 7.6.41 FL 7.6.42

APO 24.10.37 PO 23.8.38 FO 23.3.40 FL 23.9.41

ALEXANDER JAMES MORTON PEACE

WILLIAM ALBERT PEACOCK

84964

808268

PO

Pilot

British

74 and 616 Squadrons

Sgt

Pilot

Peace joined the RAFVR in July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754598). Called up on September 1 1939, he carried out his ab initio course at 22 EFTS, Cambridge. He went to 5 FTS, Sealand for No 49 Course and on completing it on September 7 1940, he was commissioned and posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden, to convert to Spitfires.

Peacock worked as an instrument artificer. He joined 608 Squadron, AAF at Thornaby-on-Tees on January 27 1938. He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot on June 9 1939. After being called up on August 24 1939, Peacock was posted to 6 EFTS, Sywell on October 21, for an ab initio course. He went to 8 FTS, Montrose on March 6 1940 and with training completed, he moved on to 7 OTU, Hawarden on June 29. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 46 Squadron at Digby on July 18. The squadron moved south to Stapleford on September 1. On the 3rd he damaged a Do 17 and on the 8th Peacock claimed a Bf 109 destroyed. Three days later he failed to return from combat over the Thames Estuary, in Hurricane V 7232. He was presumed to have crashed into the sea and was reported ‘Missing’. Peacock is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 18.

PO 7.9.40

CHARLES BARTON GOWER PEACHMENT PO

Pilot

British

236 Squadron

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 6 1939. With training completed, Peachment was posted to the newly-reformed 236 Squadron at Stradishall on November 6 1939.

SPENCER RITCHIE PEACOCK-EDWARDS 40747

On August 8 1940 he landed at Ford with severe damage to the oil system of Blenheim L 8684, following an attack by fighters off Le Havre. He was posted away from 236 to CFS, Upavon on October 18 1940, as a flying instructor. Peachment was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1979.

Pilot

British

151, 605 and 145 Squadrons

Peacock joined the RAFVR in July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 1 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 151 Squadron at Digby on the 28th, went to 605 Squadron at Croydon on October 18 and then to 145 Squadron at Tangmere on the 30th. Peacock was posted away to join 96 Squadron on December 18 1940. It was being reformed at Cranage from a redesignated 422 Flight, as a night-fighter unit, equipped with Hurricanes. He died in Kingseat Naval Hospital, Aberdeenshire on September 15 1942, as a Warrant Officer, aged 21. His unit at the time of his death is not known. Peacock is buried in Stanton Cemetery, Hartlepool, Durham.

REGINALD JOHN PEACOCK 40257 FO

Pilot

British

Pilot

South African

615 and 253 Squadrons

He went to the UK and began his ab initio course on March 7 1938. He was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on May 21 and with training completed, he joined 150 Squadron at Boscombe Down on December 17 1938, a Fairey Battle unit. The squadron went to France on September 2 1939. Peacock-Edwards was detached to Boscombe Down for a short gunnery course, from October 8 to 17. After the squadron was withdrawn to England in June 1940, Peacock-Edwards volunteered for Fighter Command and was posted to 615 Squadron at Prestwick on September 4. He moved to 253 Squadron, at Kenley, on the 15th. On October 6 he possibly destroyed a Do 17 but it is not recorded, on the 21st he damaged a Do 17, on the 30th he damaged a Bf 109, on November 22 he damaged another Do 17 and on December 3 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17. Peacock-Edwards was posted away on December 15 1940, destined for the Middle East. He embarked in the aircraft carrier HMS Furious at Liverpool and flew a Hurricane off at Takoradi on January 9 1941. With other pilots, he then flew a Hurricane north on the multistage ferry route to Ismailia in Egypt, from where he flew in a Sunderland to Malta, arriving there on January 30. He joined 261 Squadron at Hal Far, claimed a Ju 88 destroyed on February 1, was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on the 16th, destroyed two Ju 87s and damaged another on March 23, destroyed a Bf 109 on April 13 and then made a crash-landing at Hal Far in his badly-damaged Hurricane, V 7472. In May 1941 Peacock-Edwards returned to the Middle East. From August he instructed at 71 OTU, Gordon’s Tree, Sudan and later in the year he went to the Pilot Pool, Kasfareet. In February 1942 Peacock-Edwards embarked on HMS Indomitable and flew off at Ceylon on March 7 and joined ‘G’ Squadron there, which was renumbered 258 Squadron on March 30. The squadron was scrambled on April 5, when Japanese carrier-based aircraft attacked Colombo. Peacock-Edwards destroyed a Navy 99 aircraft and probably a Zero. He was posted to 273 Squadron at Katukurunda, Ceylon in August 1942 and was awarded the DFC (29.12.42). He took command of 30 Squadron at Colombo in February 1943 and led it until April 1944, when he returned to the UK. Peacock-Edwards retired from the RAF on February 14 1958, as a Squadron Leader. He returned to South Africa to live. He died in Johannesburg in September 1983.

DENIS CHARLES PEACOCK Sgt

FO

Born on May 27 1915 in Kokstad, South Africa, Peacock-Edwards was one of eleven candidates selected in Southern Rhodesia by an RAF Board to join the RAF on short service commissions.

APO 29.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41 SL 1.7.45

754649

46 Squadron

Born on June 11 1920 at Seaton Carew, Durham, Peacock was educated at Seaton Snooks School and Henry Smith Secondary School, Hartlepool.

Peace joined 74 Squadron at Coltishall on September 28. He flew four operational sorties, on October 7, 11, 12, and 13. The squadron moved to Biggin Hill on October 15 but Peace made no further sorties before he was posted away to 616 Squadron at Kirtonin-Lindsey on October 30. Peace was posted from 616 to 53 OTU, Heston on February 20 1941, as an instructor. No further service details traced.

42022

British

235 Squadron

Peacock joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 23 1937. After completing his training at No 1 FTS, Leuchars, he was posted to the FAA Pool at RAF Gosport. At the outbreak of war, Peacock was on ‘A’ Flight of 2 AACU, Gosport and he was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander there on September 7 1939.

APO 7.5.38 PO 7.3.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.1.44 FL 1.12.42 SL 1.1.54

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LEONARD HILARY BORLASE PEARCE 741920

Sgt

Pilot

British

Pearcy joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on July 7 1940. He probably retrained as a radar operator. He was in Beaufighter R 2048, which crashed near Kenley on November 15 1940, cause unknown. He and his pilot, Pilot Officer W G M Lambie, were both killed. Pearcy was 25. He is buried in Yeovil Cemetery, Somerset.

32, 249 and 46 Squadrons

Pearce, of Harrogate, joined the RAFVR about August 1938 as an Airman u/t Pilot. He joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 1 1939 for continuous service. He went to 11 Group Pool, St Athan on September 3, converted to Spitfires and joined 92 Squadron at Tangmere on October 15, soon after its reformation.

STANLEY JAMES PEARMAIN 78767

Pearce moved to 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on November 16 1939. He joined 79 Squadron at Biggin Hill on March 19 1940 and went with it to France on May 10. He shared in the destruction of a Hs 126 on the 14th and shared another Hs 126 and damaged a Do 17 on the 20th, the day that 79 Squadron returned to Biggin Hill. By June 8 Pearce had rejoined 32 Squadron, also based at Biggin Hill. On the 8th he destroyed a Bf 109 over Le Treport. On July 10 he shared in destroying a Do 17, on the 30th he damaged a Bf 109, on August 15 he destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 16th he probably destroyed a Bf 109. On August 18 Pearce was shot down in combat over Canterbury and baled out, slightly wounded. His Hurricane, R 4106, crashed at Rose Garden Cottage, Chartham Hatch. He flew no more sorties in August. On September 18 Pearce was posted to 249 Squadron at North Weald. He joined 46 Squadron at Stapleford Tawney on October 11 1940 and on the 13th he made a forcedlanding at Biggin Hill, after being attacked by Bf 109s over Dungeness, wounded. His next sortie was not made until November 19. Pearce was killed on April 9 1941, as a Flight Sergeant with 46 Squadron at Sherburnin-Elmet, Yorkshire. He was returning from a night patrol, when he stalled and crashed near his base, in Hurricane V 7610. He was 27 and is buried in the churchyard extension of St John the Baptist at Kirby-in-Wharfedale.

Radar Operator

British

LESLIE LEWIS PEARSE

DENNIS EDWARD PEARSON 581471

236 Squadron

Pearce, of Headington, Oxfordshire, joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on September 24 1940. He flew his first operational sortie next day.

742740

Air Gunner

British

236 Squadron

Sgt

Pilot

British

501 Squadron

Pearson joined the RAFVR about December 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 2 FTS, Brize Norton on No 47 Course, which ran from April 28 to August 3 1940. He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 10, converted to Hurricanes and he joined 501 Squadron at Kenley on August 27. He made his first flight on the 29th, service training. On September 6 Pearson failed to return from combat over the Ashford area. His Hurricane, P 3516, crashed at Cowleas Farm, near Kempton Manor, Hothfield and he was killed. On the 10th he was buried in St Stephen’s churchyard, Lympne, Kent, as ‘an unknown airman’. In 1982 Pearson’s sister, after lengthy research, finally established that the unknown airman was in fact her brother Geoffrey and a correctly named headstone was erected. Pearson was 21 when he was killed.

DENNIS JACK PEARCY Sgt

British

GEOFFREY WILBERFORCE PEARSON

On November 19 1940 Pearce’s flight was posted to RAF Aldergrove, where it combined with a flight from 236 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron on the 21st. Pearce flew his first sortie with 272 on that day. He was killed on November 5 1941, as a Flight Sergeant with 404 (RCAF) Squadron, aged 19. Pearce is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 37.

903249

Observer

On a sortie to Brest on September 25, Pearson was a member of the crew of a Blenheim captained by Pilot Officer G H Russell, with Sergeant J E Goldsmith as gunner. They shot down a Do 18 flying boat over St George’s Channel. On November 6 1940 Pearson’s Blenheim, again captained by Russell, was hit by flak after destroying a Do 24 flying boat 20 miles NW of Brest. Pearson was wounded in one eye and one arm. No further service details traced.

WILLIAM JOHN PEARCE British

Sgt

Pearson joined the RAF in July 1939, as a direct-entry Airman u/t Observer. He completed his training at No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth and joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island on July 21 1940.

PO 17.1.43 FO 17.7.43 FL 17.1.45

Wop/AG

236 Squadron

29 Squadron

He was still with 29 on December 8 1940 but was non-operational. He was commissioned in January 1943. Pearce was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant.

Sgt

British

PO 9.11.42 FO 9.5.43 FL 9.11.44

British

Pearce joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (751582). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and had joined 29 Squadron at Digby by June 1940.

755517

Observer

He was posted away on December 28 1940, having flown 28 operational sorties. Pearse was commissioned from Warrant Officer on November 9 1942. He instructed in Rhodesia on Oxfords and Ansons. At some time Pearse retrained as an Air Bomber. Back in the UK, he went to 30 OTU on Wellingtons, then to 1667 HCU on Halifaxes and finally to No 1 LFS on Lancasters. Pearse joined 460 (RCAF) Squadron on October 24 1944 and flew his first operation on the 25th. He had completed 36 operations, mainly against heavily-defended targets, before he left 460 on March 23 1945. He was awarded the DFC (21.9.45). He was released from the RAF on September 29 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant.

ROY PEARCE Wop/AG

Sgt

Joined the RAF on September 4 1939 as an Airman u/t Observer (759327). After completing his training, Pearse joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on September 25 1940.

600 Squadron

He flew his first operational sortie on July 9, as an AC. He was promoted to LAC in early September and to Sergeant in November. Pearce was killed on December 15 1941, as a Flight Sergeant. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 37.

Sgt

141 Squadron

APO 20.4.40 PO 15.5.40 FO 15.5.41 FL 15.5.42

Pearce joined the RAFVR about February 1940, as an Aircrafthand. He volunteered for aircrew duties and took a short radar course. He was with 600 Squadron at Northolt by June 28 1940.

143995

British

After converting to Defiants, he joined 141 Squadron at Turnhouse on July 8. Pearmain was almost certainly one of the casualties in the disastrous action of July 19, when nine Defiants of the squadron were jumped by Bf 109s over the Channel and six were shot down. Pearmain rejoined 141Squadron from hospital on August 3 1940 and was granted twenty-one days sick leave, from August 5. He remained with the squadron until July 8 1941, when he was posted to the newlyformed 410 (RCAF) Squadron at Ayr. Pearmain was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Flight Lieutenant.

PETER GRIFFIN PEARCE LAC

Air Gunner

Pearmain joined the RAFVR in April 1940, with a direct-entry commission as an Air Gunner. He completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 14 1940.

142916 916157

PO

219 Squadron

Pearcy joined the RAFVR in September 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. He was on No 8 Air Gunner Course at B&GS from March 11 1940, as an AC 2, but he suffered from air sickness and was taken off the course. He was transferred to No 10 Air Gunner Course, from April 29 1940, but again was taken off because of repeated air sickness. On June 3 he went on No 13 Course and successfully completed it on June 28.

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PHILIP PEARSON 119010

Sgt

Pilot

British

He was discharged and attached to RAF Turnhouse on March 8, as non-effective sick, supernumerary. This attachment ceased on April 4 and Peel rejoined 603 on the 7th. He went to RAF Halton on May 22 1940, for an appointment with the Central Medical Board. He returned to 603 on the 24th, having been passed A 1 fit. Flying Officer John Young, on attachment from 46 Squadron to be 603’s RAF Flying Instructor, tried to have Peel sent to an OTU for further training but this was an unwelcome request and was ignored. On July 17 Peel was reported ‘Missing’, after failing to return from an operational sortie from Montrose, in Spitfire K 9916. An Anson made a search in the Bell Rock area, off Aberdeen, but reported that it could see nothing because of adverse weather conditions. On that day there were other instances of squadron movements being hampered by bad weather. Peel was 21. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 6. He was 603 Squadron’s first casualty of the war.

238 Squadron

Pearson, of Saffron Walden, Essex, joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754153). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 9 FTS, Hullavington and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 9 1940. On the 14th Pearson crashed on the aerodrome there, when the undercarriage of Hurricane N 2479 collapsed in a heavy landing. He was unhurt and after converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 238 Squadron at Chilbolton on September 28 1940. Pearson became operational with the squadron on October 17. After being damaged by Bf 109s over Bournemouth on November 5, Pearson made a forced-landing at Sturminster, in Hurricane P 2983. He was slightly injured and was admitted to Shaftesbury Hospital. He rejoined 238 on December 9 1940. The squadron went to the Middle East in May 1941 and became fully operational with Hurricane IIcs in October. On November 29 Pearson probably destroyed a Fiat G 50 and shared another. He was commissioned in January 1942 and posted to 80 Squadron at El Adem. Pearson was killed on May 29 1942, aged 21. He is remembered on the Alamein Memorial, Column 249.

PO (AAF) 25.2.38 FO 25.8.39

JOHN RALPH ALEXANDER PEEL 33011

SL

Pilot

British

145 Squadron Peel was born on October 17 1911 at Boscombe, Hampshire, the son of Colonel Basil Peel DSO, of the Indian Army.

PO 21.1.42

ARTHUR PETER PEASE 72447

FO

Pilot

British

He was educated at Clifton and entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1930, as a Flight Cadet. He graduated on July 22 1932, with a Permanent Commission. Peel joined 19 Squadron at Duxford, from Cranwell. On January 5 1934 he was posted to 801 (Fleet Fighter) Squadron, based at Upavon and at sea on HMS Furious. He joined the staff of 601 Squadron, AAF on September 21 1935, as Flying Instructor. Peel went to the staff of RAF College, Cranwell on July 13 1936 but returned to 601 Squadron on September 23 1937. In 1940 Peel was at Air Ministry, in the Postings Section. He was given command of 145 Squadron at Tangmere on June 16 1940. On July 7 he shared in destroying a Do 17. Peel was shot down over the Channel on the 11th and ditched off Selsey Bill, in Hurricane P 3400. He was rescued, semi-conscious, by the Selsey lifeboat. On July 12 Peel damaged three Bf 110s and shared in probably destroying a Ju 88. On the 17th he returned to Tangmere, damaged by return fire from a Ju 88 engaged near St Catherine’s Point, which he damaged. Peel shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on the 19th, shared a Ju 88 on the 29th and claimed a Bf 109 destroyed, a Ju 87 probably destroyed and a Bf 109 damaged on August 8. He made a forced-landing on the Isle of Wight on the 11th, after being damaged by enemy fighters S of Swanage, slightly injured. He was awarded the DFC (13.8.40). On September 16 Peel left the squadron but returned to command again on November 18. In January 1941 he was posted away and in March was appointed Wing Leader at Kenley. On April 7 he damaged two Bf 109s as they prepared to take off from Berck airfield. Peel was shot down into the Channel off the French coast in July 1941 but was picked up and led the Wing the next morning. He was posted away in early August and awarded the DSO (5.8.41). He was appointed Sector Commander and Wing Leader at Debden. In 1943 Peel became Deputy Director of Fighter Operations at the Air Ministry, as an Acting Group Captain. He was Assistant Commandant at Cranwell in 1947. He retired from the RAF on January 20 1948, as a Wing Commander, retaining the rank of Group Captain. Peel died on January 7 2004.

603 Squadron

The son of Sir Richard and Lady Pease of Richmond, Yorkshire, Pease was born in London on February 15 1918. He was educated at Eton and Trinity College, Cambridge, where he read History. He was a member of the University Air Squadron and was commissioned in the RAFVR in September 1938. Called to full-time service in October 1939, Pease went to No 1 ITW at Jesus College, Cambridge. Pease completed his flying training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 44 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 20 1940. Pease was posted to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum for No 7 Course, running from May 20 to June 22. He met Richard Hillary there and they became friends. They went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 23 and after converting to Spitfires, they joined 603 Squadron at Dyce on July 6. Pease shared in destroying a He 111 on the 30th. He was hit by return fire but returned to Montrose, unhurt. On September 3 he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and on the 7th he made a belly-landing back at Hornchurch in Spitfire L 1057, after being damaged in combat. On September 15 1940 Pease was shot down and killed in combat. His Spitfire, X 4324, crashed at Kingswood, near Chartway Street, Kent. He was 22 years old and is buried in the churchyard of St Michael and All Angels, Middleton Tyas, Yorkshire. PO (RAFVR) 6.9.38 PO 5.10.39 FO 30.3.40

WILLIAM PEEBLES 755887

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

235 Squadron

Peebles joined the RAFVR in August 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and was with 235 Squadron from June 1940.

PO 23.7.32 FO 23.1.34 FL 1.10.36 SL 1.4.39 WC 1.3.41 WC 1.10.46

He served with 235 throughout the Battle of Britain and on November 19 1940 he went with his flight to RAF Aldergrove, where it joined with a flight from 236 Squadron on the 21st, to reform 272 Squadron. Peebles flew his first sortie with 272 on November 24. He was killed on May 7 1941, as a Flight Sergeant with 240 Squadron, flying in Catalinas from Lough Erne, in Northern Ireland. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 37.

CONSTANTINE OLIVER JOSEPH PEGGE 41317

FO

Pilot

British

610 Squadron

Pegge was born in Slough. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 29 1938, as a pupil pilot.

CHARLES DAVID PEEL 90199

FO

Pilot

British

With training completed, he was on ‘B’ Flight of No 1 AACU, Carew Cheriton by November 1939. He crashed Hawker Henley L 3283 at Farnborough on November 24, on a ferry flight. Pegge moved from ‘B’ Flight to ‘J’ Flight No1 AACU, when it was formed at Farnborough on December 1 1939. It moved to Penrhos on February 16 1940. Pegge was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 27 1940 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 610 Squadron at Gravesend on June 16. On July 8 Pegge destroyed a Bf 109, on August 12 two more and on the 18th he

603 Squadron

Peel was born in London on May 3 1919, the younger son of Lieutenant-Colonel W E Peel DSO of Haddington, East Lothian, and he was at Cheltenham College from September 1932 to July 1937. He joined 603 Squadron, AAF in December 1937 and began his ab initio course, as a pupil pilot. He was then an apprentice to a Chartered Accountant. Called to full-time service on August 25 1939, he was attached to RAF Montrose on January 14 1940, where 603 had some aircraft on aerodrome defence. Peel was admitted to the Officers’ Nursing Home, Edinburgh on February 16, for a leg operation.

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

instruct. Its aircraft having been found to be unsuitable for the area, the unit was moved to Egypt in early 1942. Soon after arriving, Penfold joined 216 Squadron at El Khanka, fifteen miles N of Helipolis. The squadron had Bombays and carried out many tasks, including supplying troops, dropping paratroopers and transporting the severely-wounded back to Heliopolis. Shortly after joining 216, Penfold’s Bombay was attacked and set alight by a Bf 109 near Burg-el-Arab and he managed to make a forced-landing before the fire became too serious. German fighters strafed the burning aircraft for ten minutes, luckily without casualties. In thirty minutes it was completely burned out. The squadron re-equipped with Hudsons and Dakotas and had a forward flight throughout the North African campaign up to the German surrender at Tunis. In late 1943 it returned to Cairo West. In January 1944 Penfold was posted to Algiers and appointed ADC and personal pilot to Field Marshal Sir Henry Maitland Wilson KCB, the Supreme Commander of Mediterranean Forces. Penfold returned to the UK in April to collect a Dakota, especially fitted out for the Field Marshal’s use. He flew it back to Algiers in May and a week later took it across to a landing strip at Caserta, N of Naples. From here Penfold made trips to various HQs in Italy, Greece, Corsica, Sardinia and flew back frequently to North Africa. In July 1944 the King arrived on a visit to the land and air forces in Italy. Penfold was given the job of looking after him and flying him from the base at Orvieto to front-line fighter strips, where he personally decorated many Army and RAF officers and men. For his services to the King, Penfold was made a Member of the Royal Victorian Order. Two weeks later Penfold performed the same services for Winston Churchill, flying him to the major battle fronts. During his time with Field Marshal Wilson, Penfold flew many VIPs and made many overnight flights to Britain. When the Field Marshal was posted to Washington, Penfold flew back with him to the UK. He then joined the Communications Squadron at Hendon and continued flying VIPs to Europe and within Germany. On one occasion Penfold flew Air Vice-Marshal Janousek back to Prague and flew down the main thoroughfare, escorted by Liberators and Spitfires of the Czech Air Force. Penfold’s final trip was to take Air Chief Marshal Sir Christopher Courteney to Burma, to plan the route for the bomber force, which would fly out via staging posts, each aircraft carrying 100 soldiers, to finish the campaign against the Japanese if the atomic bomb proved ineffective. From January 1944 until September 1945 Penfold had the same crew that he took from 216 Squadron. They had flown 1750 hours together in the same Dakota A3c, FZ 631, which still had the same engines as it had when he picked the aircraft up at Prestwick. Penfold was released from the RAF in October 1945, as a Squadron Leader. His MVO was upgraded to LVO by Royal Decree in the 1980s.

destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged a He 111. On the return to Biggin Hill, his Spitfire, R 6694, was damaged by a Bf 109 and then further damaged by running into a bomb crater on landing, unhurt. On August 24 he probably destroyed a Bf 109, claimed another destroyed on the 28th, damaged a Do 17 on the 29th and destroyed a He 111 on the 30th. He was awarded the DFC (22.10.40). In September 1941 Pegge was an instructor at 56 OTU, Sutton Bridge. He commanded 610 Squadron at Leconfield from December 1941 until February 1942, when he was posted overseas. On June 9 he was given command of 127 Squadron in the Western Desert. Pegge destroyed a Bf 109 on July 8 and two Ju 87s on September 2. He left the squadron in April 1943 and returned to the UK. In September 1944 Pegge went to 126 Squadron at Bradwell Bay, as a supernumerary Squadron Leader. He took command of 131 Squadron at Friston in October, then preparing to leave for India, and led it until June 10 1945, when it was disbanded at Dalbhumgarh. Pegge was then posted to command 607 Squadron in Burma, which he did until its disbandment at Mingaladon on July 31 1945. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (29.1.46). Pegge was killed on May 9 1950. He was flying a Meteor of the Central Fighter Establishment, West Raynham. The aircraft flew into The Wash when descending in mist and fog, while Squadron Leader Pegge was flying as No 2 to a course pilot. Pegge was buried in East Raynham churchyard on June 16 1950. APO 29.10.38 PO 29.8.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.44 SL 1.8.47

DAVID ALWYNE PEMBERTON 33036

SL

Pilot

British

1 Squadron Pemberton was born in Stratford-on-Avon in 1912 and educated at Stowe School. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1931, as a Flight Cadet. He graduated on December 16 1932, with a Permanent Commission. He then joined 99 Squadron at Upper Heyford.

In March 1934 Pemberton was posted to HQ Palestine and Transjordan at Jerusalem. He returned to the UK in September 1936 and was supernumerary at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge until posted to the staff of 601 Squadron, AAF on July 22 1937. Pemberton was appointed a Flying Examining Officer at 26 (Training) Group on September 16 1938. At the outbreak of war he was with HQ 67 Wing in France. On September 4 1939 he was in command of a ground party of No 1 Squadron going to France, in his capacity of a staff officer of 67 Wing. On May 24 1940 he took command of No 1 Squadron at Anglure. The squadron was withdrawn from France to Tangmere on June 17. On August 16 Pemberton destroyed a He 111 over the South Downs. His Hurricane, P 2751, was set alight by return fire in this engagement but he returned safely to Northolt. On the 18th Pemberton destroyed a Bf 109, on the 28th he destroyed two Do 17s and damaged another and on the 31st he damaged a Ju 88. He was awarded the DFC (1.10.40). At dawn on November 3 1940, Pemberton was flying back from Collyweston to Wittering. He was killed when he slow-rolled and flew into the ground. Pemberton was 28. He is buried in the new churchyard of St Eadburgh at Broadway, Worcestershire.

PO 1.2.40 FO 1.2.41 FL 1.8.42 SL 1.1.44

WILLIAM DAVID PENFOLD 115753

Sgt

Observer

British

236 Squadron

Penfold, from London, joined the RAFVR in August 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (759182). Called up at the outbreak of war, he completed his training and joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island in August 1940. After completing his tour on Blenheims, Penfold later did a second tour, this time on Catalinas. Commissioned in January 1942, Penfold subsequently became an Air Staff Officer (Maritime Operations). He was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Squadron Leader MBE. He died in 1977. PO 26.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 26.1.43 SL 1.5.45

PO 17.12.32 FO 17.6.34 FL 1.10.36 SL 1.4.39

VERNON WILLIAM REX PENFORD PAUL ERIC PENFOLD 77684

PO

Pilot

British

52434

F/Sgt

Pilot

British

23 Squadron

29 Squadron Penford was born on August 26 1909. He joined the RAF in 1927, as an Aircrafthand (507570). He later applied for pilot training and was selected.

Penfold was born in November 1915 at Barnham, Sussex and was educated at public school in Woodbridge, Suffolk.

He was with 23 Squadron at Collyweston by June 5 1940 and served with the squadron in the Battle of Britain. He was still with 23 on November 23 1940. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in February 1943, he retired from the RAF on September 1 1950, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. Penford was employed by Airwork Ltd as a flying instructor, giving initial flying training to new entrant RAF pilots and navigators. He rejoined the RAF in 1953, as a Warrant Officer, and retrained as an Air Traffic Controller. He retired again on March 1 1962. He continued as a Controller with the Air Ministry until 1972, when he retired for health reasons. Penford died on March 29 1974.

In April 1937 he joined the RAFVR at Brighton, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740640) and carried out his flying training at Shoreham Airport, on Tiger Moths, Audaxes and Battles. Penfold was awarded his wings in 1938 and when he was called up on September 1 1939 he had 250 flying hours in his logbook, a large number for a VR pilot. In the latter part of the year Penfold was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney, for a twin-engine conversion course and on February 1 1940 he was commissioned, arrived at 12 Group Pool on March 8, converted to Blenheims and was then posted to 29 Squadron at Debden on April 6. Penfold served with the squadron during the Battle of Britain, on night fighting duties at various fighter stations. On September 3 1940 he was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, as an instructor, converting Polish pilots to Hurricanes. Penfold was later posted to 73 OTU, Aden, to

PO 22.2.43 FO 22.8.43 FL 22.2.45 FL 22.8.46

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DENIS ARTHUR PENNINGTON

HUGH HAROLD PERCY

41949

74688

PO

Pilot

British

245 and 253 Squadrons

FO

Pilot

British

Pennington joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on February 6 1939. With training completed, he joined 245 Squadron at Leconfield on November 6 1939.

264 Squadron

Percy, of Caernarvonshire, was educated at Bradfield College and St John’s College, Cambridge, where he read Classics. He learned to fly with the University Air Squadron in 1939 and transferred to the RAFVR on June 14 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754341). Percy was called to full-time service soon after the outbreak of war and was commissioned in early October 1939. He went to No 1 ITW Cambridge and afterwards he was posted to RAF College FTS, Cranwell on No 2 War Course. With the course completed at 5 FTS, Sealand, he was sent to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum, probably for a course. On June 10 1940 Percy arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down and after converting to Defiants, he was posted to 264 Squadron at Duxford on June 19. He was still with 264 in November 1940. He was killed on May 22 1944, as a Flight Lieutenant with 610 Squadron. He was on a morning shipping recce to Guernsey in Spitfire RB 162, which was hit by fire from flak batteries at Pleinmont Point, Guernsey, site of a German naval observation tower. Percy baled out too low and his parachute did not fully open. He was 24 years old. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 203.

On May 16 1940 Pennington and other pilots of 245 went to France, to reinforce a much-depleted 615 Squadron. On the 20th Pennington destroyed a Bf 110. When 615 was withdrawn to Kenley on the 20th, the 245 pilots rejoined their own unit at Drem on the 24th. On May 28 245 went south to Hawkinge for a short period. On May 30 Pennington probably destroyed a Do 17 over Dunkirk. Later, in June, 245 went to Hawkinge again and on the 20th a strafing attack was made on Rouen-Boos aerodrome, destroying many aircraft on the ground. Pennington was posted to 253 Squadron at Kenley on October 13 1940. He was later a Flight Commander in 124 Squadron. He was with 151 Squadron in May 1942, as a Squadron Leader Flight Commander. During the night of May 28/29 he damaged a He 111 off Hornsea. In the early hours of July 28 1942 Pennington, flying with Flight Sergeant D J Donnett as his radar operator, shot down a Do 17 of 3/KG 2 into the sea off Cromer. He was awarded the DFC (5.3.43), being then credited with three enemy aircraft destroyed. Pennington was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1995.

PO 3.10.39 FO 3.10.40 FL 3.10.41 APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41

FREDERICK STANLEY PERKIN ALAN WILLIAM PENNINGTON-LEGH 37687

FL

Pilot

British

104446

Sgt

Pilot

British

Perkin was born in 1920 and joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748278), and he began his flying training at 15 E&RFTS, Redhill in June.

Pennington-Legh joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on January 27 1936, as a pupil pilot.

Called to full-time service at the outbreak of war, he went to No 1 ITW, Cambridge and on October 25 1939 to 22 EFTS, Cambridge on No 1 War Course. On April 12 1940 Perkin was posted to 11 FTS, Shawbury, completing the course on July 24. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 28, to convert to Blenheims, after which he joined 600 Squadron at Manston on August 17. The squadron moved to Hornchurch on the 21st. Perkin made one flight with 600, on the 24th, and then went to 615 Squadron at Kenley on August 27. The squadron was withdrawn to Prestwick on the 28th and there Perkin converted to Hurricanes. On September 15 1940 he was posted to 73 Squadron at Castle Camps. He was shot down in flames over London on the 23rd, baled out, unhurt, and landed in the sea E of Sheppey. His Hurricane, V 7445, crashed in the Swale, Elmley. Perkin joined 421 Flight at Gravesend on October 25. He shared in damaging a Do 17 on December 12. The Flight was expanded to squadron strength and renumbered 91 Squadron at Hawkinge on January 12 1941. Commissioned in August, Perkin was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on September 12, moving soon afterwards to 61 OTU, Heston and later Rednal. From July 12 1942 he was attached to the 52nd Pursuit Group, USAF at Eglinton, Northern Ireland, instructing on Spitfires. He rejoined 91 Squadron at Hawkinge on August 24 but moved on to 111 Squadron at Kenley on September 15 1942. The squadron was posted to North Africa later in the month and embarked on the SS Christiaan Huygens for Gibraltar. It flew into Maison Blanche, Algiers on November 11. Perkin served with 111 until May 13 1943, when he returned to the UK. He instructed at 55 OTU, Annan from July 1 1943 until January 1944 and then spent the remainder of the war controlling on long-range radar sets from Hythe, directing Spitfires and Tempests that were intercepting V 1 flying bombs. Perkin was released from the RAF in May 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1988.

He was posted to 9 FTS, Thornaby on April 4 and with training completed, he was posted to 43 Squadron at Tangmere on October 1 1936. Pennington-Legh was detached to Kenley on March 14 to 20 1939, for a Link Trainer Instructor Course and from June 18 to 24 1939 he was at Mildenhall for a VHF Course. When 248 Squadron was reformed at Hendon on October 30 1939, Pennington-Legh joined it on the 31st, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. He was given command of 232 Squadron at Castletown on October 1 1940 and joined it there on the 7th, arriving by air from the Shetlands. He was appointed Acting Squadron Leader on December 11. He led 232 until May 1941. He returned to the squadron in July and commanded it until October 1941. In early 1942 Pennington-Legh was commanding 11 Squadron, operating in Blenheims in the Western Desert. He took the squadron to Ceylon in March 1942. He was killed with the squadron on June 1 1943, as an Acting Wing Commander. Pennington-Legh was 28. He is remembered on the Singapore Memorial, Column 423. APO 23.3.36 PO 27.1.37 FO 27.10.38 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.1.42

BRUCE PENNYCUICK 122315

Sgt

Observer

600, 615 and 73 Squadrons, 421 Flt

248 and 232 Squadrons

British

236 Squadron

Joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (751619). Called up on September 1, Pennycuick remustered as an Airman u/t Observer. He completed his training and was posted to 236 Squadron at St Eval on September 25 1940.

PO 21.8.41 FO 21.8.42 FL 21.8.43

Pennycuick flew six fighter patrols between then and October 31st. The Blenheim he was in on November 7 engaged two He 115s, scoring hits on both before they vanished into cloud. In early January 1941 Pennycuick was posted to 59 Squadron at Thorney Island, operating in Hudsons on anti-shipping duties. He was commissioned in May 1942. On the night of June 25/26 the squadron took part in the third 1000-bomber raid, flying from North Coates and with Bremen as the target. After a staff job at HQ 16 Group, Pennycuick was posted to 279 (ASR) Squadron at Thornaby-on-Tees, operating in Warwicks which had airborne lifeboats attached. In 1944 he rejoined 236 Squadron, then equipped with Beaufighters. Pennycuick’s final posting was as Station Commander RAF Beccles, a satellite of RAF Langham. He was released in 1946, as a Squadron Leader. He died on February 16 2006.

GEORGES CAMILLE PERRIN No unknown

Adjudant

Pilot

French

245, 615 and 249 Squadrons

Perrin was born in Huriel on August 5 1917. He joined l’Armée de l’Air, as a pupil pilot. He was fully trained at the outbreak of war and was posted to the flying school at Meknes, as an instructor. When the Armistice was signed on June 22 1940, Perrin and Pierre Blaize (qv) decided to escape to England. They took a Caudron Goeland, the personal aircraft of the base commandant, and flew to Gibraltar, sailing from there on July 3 in the armed trawler President Houduce, arriving at Liverpool on the 19th.

PO 1.5.42 FO 1.11.42 FL 1.5.44

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ALEXANDER HENRY PETTET

They went to Olympia, London until the 25th, going then to 4 S of TT at RAF St Athan, from where they moved to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum on the 29th. They went to RAF Odiham on August 10, where they flew Tiger Moths and Hectors with No 1 Fighter Training Squadron of the Free French Air Force, for grading and testing purposes. Perrin was posted to 6 OTU on August 19. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 245 Squadron at Aldergrove on September 11, moved to 615 Squadron at Prestwick on the 19th and finally to 249 Squadron at North Weald on October 1. Perrin was shot down on the 12th, in combat with Bf 109s over Eastchurch, in Hurricane V 7313. He baled out, slightly wounded, and was admitted to hospital. He flew his next sortie on November 24 1940. Perrin rejoined 615 Squadron, then at Northolt next day. During a patrol over Kent on February 26 1941 he was again shot down. He was rested from operations and did not fly again. Technically gifted, Perrin went on a course and qualified as a radio/electrical engineer. After the war Perrin returned to France and lived in Bourges, running his own radio and television business. After a period of ill-health, he died on February 12 1981.

85011

AC 2

HENRY WILLIAM PETTIT 745645

British

72150

79 Squadron

Pilot

British

615 Squadron

In December 1937 Pexton joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740919) and was commissioned in January 1938. He spent time with 41 Squadron at Catterick between January and April 1939, but then returned to the family farm to help with the harvest. Called up at the outbreak of war, he joined 615 Squadron at Croydon on September 6 1939. He flew with the squadron to Merville, France on November 15, in a Gladiator. Shot down in France on May 19 1940, Pexton suffered a leg wound. He crash-landed near the Arras-Cambrai road and spent four days reaching Dunkirk, having been reported missing. On May 23 he was taken on board the hospital ship Worthing and landed at Newhaven the next day. He was in hospital at Barnet, Hertfordshire. He was posted to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, as non-effective sick. He rejoined 615 Squadron at Kenley on July 10, fit for flying duties. Pexton shared in the destruction of a He 59 E of North Foreland on the 27th. He was posted away on August 13 1940, to 5 FTS Sealand on instructional duties. He also instructed at Cranwell and Cranfield before being posted to Canada as one of the instructors forming 34 SFTS, Medicine Hat. He later took command of the unit. Pexton was awarded the AFC (26.10.43). Pexton requested a return to operations and went to Bomber Command, undertaking training at 16 OUT, 1661 HCU and 5 Lancaster Finishing School. He was posted to 61 Squadron at Skellingthorpe as a Flight Commander, later commanding the Squadron until he was posted away in April 1945. He was awarded the DFC (16.2.45). He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Wing Commander and took charge of the family farm. He died on January 16 1993. He had a brother, Flight Lieutenant Harold Cass Pexton, DFC, who was killed on operations with 35 Squadron on July 30 1943 and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial.

OTTO JOHN PETERSON American

FL

Born in Yorkshire on October 26 1913, Pexton went to St Peter’s School, York and was in the OTC there. On leaving school he helped to run the family farm in East Yorkshire. He was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the 5th Battalion, Green Howards (TA) on November 5 1932. He resigned his commission on October 1 1935, having been influenced by watching RAF demonstrations.

APO 14.3.38 PO 17.1.39 FO 17.7.40

Pilot

1 and 605 Squadrons

RICHARD DUNNING PEXTON

Peters was on No 1 Coast Artillery Co-operation Unit at Gosport on September 1 1939, as Adjutant. He was detached from there on October 29 for a short 4-day course on Counter Bombardment. He joined 79 Squadron at Acklington in early August 1940. On the 15th he destroyed a Bf 110, on the 30th shared in the destruction of a He 111, on September 1 he probably destroyed a Do 17, on the 4th he destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 7th he probably destroyed a Do 17. Peters failed to return from intercepting He 111s over the Irish Sea on September 29. His Hurricane, P 5177, crashed into the sea and his body was recovered. Peters was 27. He is buried in Rathnew Cemetery, Co Wicklow, Ireland.

PO

British

After converting to Hurricanes, he joined No 1 Squadron at Wittering on September 27 1940. He made his first flight next day, a sector recco. Pettit moved to 605 Squadron at Croydon on October 20. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on November 15 and he shared in the destruction of a Bf 109 on November 23, which crashed by Smeeth railway station, Kent. Pettit was killed on February 2 1941, as a Sergeant with 605. On this day he took off from Martlesham Heath, on a height test to 25,000 feet. There were high winds reported at this altitude that day, suggesting that he was blown off course and subsequently lost. Also involved in the test with Pettit was Sergeant K H Jones of 605. He was blown off course, shot down over France and made PoW. Pettit was 20. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 50.

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on January 17 1938, as a pupil pilot. Peters was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney on April 9, completed his training and then joined the staff of 2 School of Technical Training at Cosford on December 23 1938.

C 900

Pilot

23 Squadron

GEORGE CHARLES BOYCE PETERS British

Sgt

Pettit, of Chingford, Essex, joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 1 1940.

Radar Operator

Pilot

248 Squadron

PO 25.8.40

On October 30, operating from Ford, Perry was a member of the crew of Blenheim L 6721, on a routine night patrol. The aircraft crashed at Orchard Way Road, South Bersted after R/T failure and deteriorating weather conditions, searching for base. Perry, the pilot, Flying Officer H J Woodward, and the gunner, Pilot Officer A A Atkinson, were all killed. Perry was 23. He is buried in Saffron Walden Cemetery.

FO

British

Pettet was then at a B&GS, probably No 9, from July 1 to August 24 and completed his training at No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth, from August 25, when he was commissioned, to September 29, when he was posted to 248 Squadron at Sumburgh. Pettet was a member of the crew of a Blenheim that was detailed to fly to Wick on December 13 1940, for operations. His aircraft collided with another Blenheim whilst they were formating. Pettet, Pilot Officer J D Dodd, pilot, and Sergeant A Hook, gunner, were all lost. The five men aboard the other Blenheim also died. Pettet was 28. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 9.

Perry, of Saffron Walden, Essex, joined the RAFVR in 1939, as an Airman u/t for Operations Room duties. Called up on September 1, he later volunteered for aircrew duties, did a radar course and joined 23 Squadron at Collyweston on July 18 1940 as a radar operator.

40593

Observer

Pettet, of Hassocks, Sussex, joined the RAFVR in September 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (968420). He went to 11Air Observer Navigation School for No 2 Air Observer Course, from March 18 to June 29 1940.

HENRY THOMAS PERRY 770435

PO

1 (RCAF) Squadron

Born in Eckville, Atlanta on March 14 1915, Peterson joined the RCAF on November 7 1938 and was with No 1 (RCAF) Squadron when it arrived in the UK on June 20 1940. He was detached to RAF Uxbridge from July 5 to 9, for an R/T procedure course. Peterson claimed a Do 17 damaged on September 1, a Bf 110 damaged on the 4th, a Bf 109 destroyed on the 9th, a Bf 109 probably destroyed and another damaged on the 18th and he shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on the 25th. Peterson was shot down and killed in combat with Ju 88s and Bf 110s over North Kent on September 27 1940. His Hurricane, P 3647, crashed at Hever, Kent. Peterson was 25. He is buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery.

PO (RAFVR) 26.1.38 FO 15.9.39 FL 15.9.40 SL 1.12.41

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

JAN PIOTR PFEIFFER 76728

PO

Pilot

Polish

In the early hours of June 17 1941 Phillips was in a Beaufighter of 604 Squadron, probably captained by Pilot Officer W M Gossland. A He 111 was intercepted and shot down, crashing at Maiden Bradley, Wiltshire. No other service details traced.

32 and 257 Squadrons

Pfeiffer was born on November 25 1909. He arrived in England in late 1939 and was commissioned in the RAFVR in January 1940 at RAF Eastchurch.

ERNEST RUSSELL PHILLIPS 83293

From June 1 1940 Pfeiffer was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. He went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum on July 5, on the 1st Polish Pilots’ Course, for testing and grading. On the 14th he was sent to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge and after converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on August 3. Pfeiffer crashed on landing at Hawkinge on the 22nd, unhurt. The next day he again crashed at Hawkinge, landing on one wheel after his Hurricane, P 2795, was damaged in combat. On September 16 Pfeiffer moved to 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath but he was posted away to 5 B&GS on the 28th, as a staff pilot. He was later instructing at 12(P) AFU at Grantham. To prepare for a return to operations, Pfeiffer went to 54 OTU, Charter Hall on July 13 1943. He joined 307 Squadron at Predannack on October 12 and was killed on December 20, on a training flight from Sumburgh. His Mosquito, X 648, crashed into the sea, cause unknown. Both Pfeiffer and his navigator, Pilot Officer K E Kesicki, were lost.

Pilot

Belgian

235 Squadron

Phillips was killed on February 14 1941, still with the squadron. He was the only fatality when Blenheim V 5431 crashed at Langham. He was 28 years old and is buried in the Military Cemetery of St Andrew, Great Bircham, Norfolk. PO 28.7.40

NORMAN TAYLOR PHILLIPS 365324

F/Sgt

Pilot

British

65 Squadron

Born in Gillingham, Kent in 1909, Phillips was educated at Napier Road Council School there. He joined the RAF, as an Aircraft Apprentice, in September 1924 and passed out in August 1927, as a Carpenter. Phillips later applied for pilot training, was selected and he passed out as a Sergeant-Pilot in 1931. He was with 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 3 1939. Over Dunkirk on May 27, 1940 Phillips destroyed a Do 17. On July 9 he destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 24th he damaged two Do 17s. He was shot down and killed during an action with Bf 109s over Manston on August 8 1940, probably by Oberleutnant Müncheberg of III/JG 26. His Spitfire, K 9905, crashed and burned out. Phillips is buried in Chatham Cemetery, Kent.

JACQUES ARTHUR LAURENT PHILIPPART PO

Observer British

Phillips joined the RAFVR in August 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (755986). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at a B&GS from June 1 to July 27 1940, was commissioned and went to No 1(C) OTU, Silloth on July 28. He joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on August 14.

PO 27.1.40 PO 1.3.41 FO 1.3.42 FL 1.3.43

81628

PO

213 Squadron

Philippart was born at Mont-St-Guibert, Belgium on January 11 1909. He joined the Belgian Air Force and graduated from the Aviation Militaire Belge 67e Promotion on November 30 1931. In 1939/40 he was an instructor at Duerne Flying School, Antwerp. On May 10 1940 he was ordered to go to France and was attached to HQ Belgian Air Force, on liaison duties, which meant frequent trips to England. After the French collapse in June, he left Bayonne on the 24th in a Dutch cargo ship for England and he arrived at Southampton. On July 12 he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden and was commissioned in the RAFVR. Philippart converted to Hurricanes and joined 213 Squadron at Exeter on the 23rd. He made his first flight on that day, a sector reconaissance. He claimed a Ju 88 destroyed on August 11, destroyed three Bf 110s on the 15th and another Ju 88 on the 22nd. Philippart claimed another Ju 88 on August 25 but he was himself shot down in combat off Portland, possibly by Hauptmann Hans-Karl Mayer of I/JG 53. He baled out but was killed, his body being washed ashore three days later. Philippart was 31. He was buried in Exeter Higher Cemetery, Heavitree but on October 20 1949 his remains were exhumed and were re-buried in the Pelouse d’Honneur Cemetery of Brussels, at Evere. Philippart was the first Belgian ace of the war.

RANDALL FREDERICK PRENTER PHILLIPS 116899

Sgt

Pilot

British

602 Squadron

Joined 602 Squadron, AAF at Abbotsinch in June 1937, as an Aircrafthand (802506). He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and in April 1939, when a scheme was introduced in the AAF to have NCO pilots, Phillips was among the first men to be accepted for for flying training. Called to full-time service on August 24 1939, he was posted to 7 FTS, Peterborough for No 12 Course, which ran from October 9 1939 to March 6 1940. Phillips rejoined 602 at Drem on March 18 and he served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain, as a Sergeant-Pilot. Commissioned in February 1942, Phillips moved to 3 (P) AFU at Lulsgate Bottom in June, later moving with the unit to South Cerney. Phillips returned to Lulsgate Bottom in October 1943, when he was made an instructor at 7 FIS. He was released from the RAF in September 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 16.2.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 16.2.44

JAMES PHILLIP 751714

Sgt

Wop/AG British

25 Squadron

JOHN ROSS PHILLIPSON 650678

Phillip joined the RAFVR about June 1939 as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. He was called up on September 1, completed his training and joined 25 Squadron at North Weald in early October 1940.

AUSTIN PHILLIPS AC

Radar Operator

British

Radar Operator

British

604 Squadron

Phillipson joined the RAF in July 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He was in France with the AASF, as a ground radio operator. Back in England in early June 1940, he volunteered for aircrew duties of a secret nature. After a short radar course at No 2 Electrical and Wireless School, Yatesbury, he was posted to 604 Squadron at Gravesend on July 10.

He was killed on May 17 1942, as a Flight Sergeant with 48 Squadron, flying on antishipping operations from Wick. Phillip was 21. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 75.

525665

Sgt

He served with 604 throughout the Battle of Britain and he was promoted to Sergeant on October 28 1940. Flying with Flight Lieutenant John Cunningham on November 19, Phillipson assisted in the destruction of a Ju 88, Cunningham’s first victory. On December 23 and January 3 1941 he assisted in destroying He 111s, both times with Cunningham.

604 Squadron

Phillips enlisted in the RAF in November 1935, as an Aircrafthand. It seems very likely that he volunteered for aircrew duties, became a radar operator and then joined 604 Squadron at Middle Wallop in early August 1940. He flew only one operational sortie in the Battle of Britain period, on October 15.

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A few days later Pickering and his two companions flew back to Egypt, with General Stillwell. Overdue from leave, they were technically deserters and were fined their pay and allowances for the time spent in India and China. There were still some P 40s in Cairo and Pickering flew one to Karachi, where he was to pick up a Boston for delivery to Basra. En route there, Pickering’s aircraft began giving trouble whilst flying through a sandstorm. He began to run short of fuel and diverted east to Persia, making a forcedlanding on a short beach. The nose wheel dug in and Pickering and his passengers could not move it clear of the rising tide. Their position was unknown because they had been unable to make radio contact with their lead aircraft before breaking away but it had been assumed, wrongly, that Pickering had flown westwards. They were reported ‘Missing’ and were stranded for three weeks before being picked up by the Royal Navy. In late November 1942 Pickering joined 80 Squadron in the Western Desert. He moved to 145 Squadron there just before Christmas 1942. In June 1943 Pickering returned to the UK. He went to 3501 SU at Cranfield, test-flying Spitfires and Mustangs. In April 1944 he joined 511 Forward Repair Unit, as Chief Test Pilot, and later he took command of the Unit. From November 1944 to October 1945 Pickering was with 151 RUA in Belgium, as Chief Test Pilot. He was released from the RAF in late 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant, and was awarded the AFC (1.1.46). Pickering served in the RAFVR from December 1945 to September 1975. He went into printing and later became director of a Building Society. He died on October 6 2004.

In 1942 Phillipson was with 89 Squadron in the Middle East. He was killed on January 5 1943, in a flying accident, as a Warrant Officer. The award of the DFC (19.2.43) was gazetted after his death. The citation stated that he had recently taken part in the destruction of three enemy aircraft. Phillipson is buried in Moascar War Cemetery, Egypt.

ROBERT FERGUSON PHILO 42433

PO

Pilot

British

151 Squadron

Philo joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course at 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury on June 12 1939. He moved on to 3 FTS, South Cerney for No 29 Course, which ran from September 25 1939. Philo later transferred to No 30 Course, which ended on April 27 1940. He did not arrive at 5 OTU, Aston Down until September 4 1940. The unit he served with after 3 FTS is not known. Philo converted to Hurricanes and joined 151 Squadron at Digby on September 17. He was still with 151 in November 1940. No further service details have been traced. Philo was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. APO 5.8.39 PO 28.4.40 FO 28.4.41 FL 28.4.42

PO 29.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 29.1.44 FO (RAFVR) 17.7.47

STANISLAW PIATKOWSKI 76618

PO

Pilot

Polish

79 Squadron

JOHN HARCOURT PICKERING 80821

Piatkowski was commissioned in the RAFVR at RAF Eastchurch in December 16 1939. From June 1 he was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting.

JAMES PICKERING Pilot

British

British

66 Squadron

Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on No 6 Course, which ran from December 29 1939 to June 10 1940. Pickering was commissioned and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 10. After converting to Spitfires, he was posted to 66 Squadron at Coltishall on June 23. On July 29 he shared a He 111 and on August 30 shared a Do 17. On this day Pickering was shot down into the sea during an attack on a Do 17 twenty miles E of Aldeburgh. He was rescued by the crew of a lightship, suffering from head injuries received when he ditched his Spitfire. He was transferred to a destroyer, which put him ashore at Sheerness on the morning of the 31st. Pickering was admitted to the Royal Naval Hospital, Chatham. He was discharged on September 5 and after sick leave, he rejoined 66 on September 18. On September 21 Pickering probably destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 24th he destroyed another. He was shot down by Major Mölders of JG 51 in combat over Canterbury on October 11. His Spitfire, X 4562, crashed and burned out in Covert Wood, Elham. Pickering received facial injuries, spent two days in the Kent and Canterbury Hospital and after ten days sick leave, he rejoined 66 on the 23rd. He damaged a Bf 109 on February 14 1941 and shared a He 111 during the night of May 27/28. Pickering was later posted away from 66, to be an instructor. In early 1942 Pickering was at 53 OTU, Llandow. He was killed on February 15, when his Spitfire collided with another flown by Flying Officer H R G Poulton, who escaped with bruises. Pickering is buried in Llanwit Major Cemetery, Glamorgan.

PO 16.12.39

Sgt

Pilot

Pickering, of Reading, Berkshire, joined the RAFVR about November 1938 as an Airman u/t Pilot (742542).

From August 12 to 19 1940 Piatkowski was on the 4th Polish Pilots’ Course at No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum, for testing and grading. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 19. On the 25th he crashed at Flaxburton, Somerset. He converted to Hurricanes and joined 79 Squadron at Biggin Hill on September 11. Piatkowski was killed on October 25 1940, when he crashed near Carew Cheriton after a routine patrol, in Hurricane N 2708. Piatkowski was 28. He is buried in St Illtyd’s churchyard, Pembrey, Carmarthenshire. He is also remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt. He was awarded the KW (30.10.41).

117397

PO

64 Squadron

Born in 1915, Pickering joined the RAFVR in April 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740211), and did his training at Desford. In September 1939 the FAA was short of pilots and after Pickering was called up he was attached to Donibristle and he joined the Torpedo-Spotter-Reconnaissance Flight. He was later posted to deck-landing training on HMS Argus in the Western Mediterranean. Offered a transfer to the FAA, he declined. His attachment ceased and he returned to the RAF and he went to 3 B&GS, Aldergrove, as a staff pilot. On May 4 1940 Pickering was recalled to the FAA and joined 759 (T) Squadron at Eastleigh, for a refresher decklanding course. He was with 804 Squadron at Hatston by May 23. In June the RAF was short of pilots and Pickering was recalled on the 11th and posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 64 Squadron at Kenley on July 1 1940. Within two weeks Pickering was told to report to Uxbridge and became one of a group of nine sergeants and one officer. They were flown to Hullavington, picked up Hurricanes, flew them to Abbotsinch and then embarked on HMS Argus, where they were joined by four more officers. They were told their destination was Malta and they were now attached to 418 Flight. The Argus sailed on July 23, arrived at Gibraltar and sailed for Malta on the 31st. At dawn on August 2 Pickering and the others flew off to Luqa. 418 Flight and the Malta Fighter Flight were amalgamated into 261 Squadron on August 16 1940. Pickering damaged a Ju 87, a Ju 88 and a Cant Z 506B on January 19 1941. He left Malta on April 7, flying to Egypt as a passenger in a Wellington. He ferried a Hurricane to Greece, then joined the ADU at Takoradi. Commissioned in January 1942, Pickering was in Cairo when he met some American Flying Tiger pilots, who were bound for Accra to collect some P 40s, flown in from an American aircraft carrier. Pickering and two other RAF ferry pilots applied for local leave and went to Accra with the US pilots and collected the P 40s. Permission was obtained to fly on to Kunming, via Karachi and Calcutta. They arrived at Kunming on May 5 1942, making what was one of the earliest flights by single engined fighters over the ‘Hump’.

PO 10.6.40 FO 10.6.41

TONY GARFORTH PICKERING 114471

Sgt

Pilot

British

32 and 501 Squadrons

Pickering was born at Foxton, Leicestershire on August 25 1920. He was educated at Market Harborough Grammar School and after leaving, he went to British Thomson-Houston, to take up an engineering apprenticeship. In April 1939 Pickering joined the RAFVR at Coventry, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754357) and he began his weekend flying training at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty. Called up on September 1 1939, Pickering left Coventry on the 15th for 3 ITW, Hastings. He moved on to 15 EFTS, Redhill on November 23 and then went to 5 FTS, Sealand on April 27 1940. With training completed, Pickering was posted from Sealand direct to 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on July 27 and arrived there with two other newly-trained pilots, Sergeants R J K Gent and S A H Whitehouse. The CO, Squadron Leader

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OSWALD St JOHN PIGG

J Worrall, would have none of this and after the new arrivals had made a few short flights with the Biggin Hill Sector Training Flight, they were sent to 6 OTU on August 3, on attachment. Having converted to Hurricanes, they rejoined 32 later in the month. Shortly afterwards the squadron was ordered north to Acklington for a rest. The CO, now Squadron Leader Crossley, said that Pickering, Gent and Whitehouse were not in need of a rest and they were posted to 501 Squadron at Gravesend on the 27th. In an action with Bf 109s over Caterham on September 11, Pickering was shot down, in Hurricane P 5200. He baled out, unhurt, and landed in the Guards Depot, where he was initially suspected of being German. His aircraft crashed at Happy Valley, Old Coulsdon. On October 29 Pickering claimed a Bf 109 destroyed. He was posted to 601 Squadron at Northolt on December 20. He left on February 14 1941 for 57 OTU, Hawarden, to be a test pilot at the MU there. Commissioned in December 1941, Pickering became an instructor at 57 OTU on the 20th of the month. He returned to operations on February 19 1943, when he joined 131 Squadron at Castletown, as a Flight Commander. Pickering served with the squadron until January 7 1944. From then on he held various appointments in the Exeter Sector, as Controller and Gunnery Officer among other things. On February 11 1945 Pickering was posted to the Middle East and became a Squadron Commander at the B&GS, El Ballah. He returned to the UK in December 1945 and was released from the RAF later in the month, as a Squadron Leader. Pickering worked for GEC for many years in sales posts that involved him travelling to many parts of the world. In his spare time, for more than 70 years, he was a church bell ringer.

39678

FO

Pilot British

72 Squadron Pigg was born in 1918, the son of a clergyman. He was educated at the Royal Grammar School, Newcastle-uponTyne.

He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 8 1937. Pigg was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on May 9 and with training completed, he joined 72 Squadron at Church Fenton on November 27 1937. He was still with the squadron at the outbreak of war. Over Dunkirk on June 2 1940, Pigg destroyed a Ju 87. His aircraft was damaged by machine-gun fire from another Stuka and he made a belly landing at Gravesend, slightly wounded in the leg. On August 15 Pigg claimed a Bf 110 destroyed. He was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 109s on September 1 1940. His Spitfire, P 9458, crashed and burned out on Elvey Farm, Pluckley. A plaque in his memory was placed at a restaurant on the site in 2012. Pigg is buried in St Oswald’s Burial Ground, Durham. APO 9.5.37 PO 8.3.38 FO 8.10.39

EDWARD ROMAN PILCH PO 13.12.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 13.12.43

76706

PO

Pilot

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

302 Squadron

Pilch was born on February 25 1915. He was in the Polish Air Force before the war and on September 1 1939 he was Senior Pilot in 122 Eskadra. He arrived in England in late 1939 and was commissioned in the RAFVR in January 1940 at RAF Eastchurch.

JAMES THOMAS PICKFORD 175421

Polish

604 Squadron

Born on September 1 1917, Pickford joined the RAFVR in February 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (743068). He had gunnery instruction at Store Street, Westminster and flew in Harts and Hinds at Gravesend on Sundays.

He was posted to 15 EFTS, Redhill in mid-March 1940 and moved to the Polish Training unit at Hucknall later in the month. This unit was redesignated 18 OTU on June 15 1940. Pilch was posted from 18 OTU to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 23. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield on July 17. He went to RAF Duxford with a 302 Squadron detachment on September 13, to operate with the Bader Big Wing. He destroyed two Do 17s on September 15 and a Ju 88 on the 18th. The detachment returned to 302 on the 25th Pilch was awarded the KW and Bar (1.2.41). He shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 on February 16 1941. On a routine training flight from Westhampnett four days later, Pilch crashed in flames at Arundel, cause not known, and was killed, in Hurricane R 2687. Pilch is buried in Chichester Cemetery, Sussex. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (19.2.42).

Mobilised on September 1 1939, Pickford was posted to 604 Squadron at North Weald. He went to Evanton on November 6 and after a month long course, he passed out as an LAC Air Gunner and returned to 604. He was entitled to wear the new Air Gunner badge from February 29 1940. On May 10 1940 the squadron provided an escort for Blenheims, detailed to bomb German transport aircraft on the beach at Wassenaar, Holland. After the bombing, Pickford’s pilot, Pilot Officer I K S Joll, decided to have a low-level strafe of the beach. The port propeller came off, either shot off by ground fire or by striking the ground. The Blenheim crash-landed on the beach but did not catch fire and the two men were not badly hurt. With the help of Dutch people, they managed to get on the SS Dotterel on the 13th and return to England. In late December 1940 Pickford was posted to 207 Squadron at Waddington, equipped with Manchesters and later Lancasters. He did two tours, flying 53 operations and was awarded the DFM (29.12.42), as Flight Sergeant. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in February 1944, Pickford was released from the RAF on June 23 1946, as a Flying Officer. He died in 1992.

PO 24.1.40

ALFRED PILKINGTON PO 15.2.44 FO 15.8.44

1052307

Sgt

Pilot British

Radar Operator

British

23 Squadron

Pilkington joined the RAFVR in June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. He volunteered for aircrew duties and was sent on a short radar course, after which he joined 23 Squadron at Middle Wallop in early September .According to the squadron ORB, he flew his first operational sortie on the 10th and his last with the squadron on September 24 1940.

LESLIE PIDD 742636

AC

238 Squadron

Pidd, the son of George and Hilda Pidd of Dunswell, Yorkshire, was born in 1918. He was educated at Woodmansey School and later Beverley Grammar School.

No other service details traced.

DAVID JOHN COLIN PINCKNEY

He joined the RAFVR at Hull about December 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 8 FTS, Montrose and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 26 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 238 Squadron at Middle Wallop on July 18. Pidd probably destroyed a Bf 109 on August 11, returning to base with his starboard wing and glycol system damaged, following the combat two miles E of Weymouth, slightly injured. On September 15 Pidd was shot down and killed in combat with He 111s and Bf 110s over Kenley. Sergeant Bann of 238 reported seeing Pidd killed under his parachute by a German aircraft. His Hurricane, P 2836, crashed into an oak tree at Kent College, Pembrey. Pidd is buried in St Peter’s churchyard, Woodmansey, Yorkshire. On Armistice Day, November 11 1999, a plaque in his memory was unveiled at Beverley Grammar School.

72520

FO

Pilot

British

603 Squadron

Pinckney, of Hungerford, Berkshire, was born on December 6 1918. He was educated at Eton and Trinity College, Cambridge, where he read Geography, Anthropology and Archaeology. He learned to fly with the University Air Squadron at 22 E&RFTS, Cambridge. Pinckney was commissioned in the RAFVR in December 1938. Called to full-time service in early October 1939, he went to No 1 ITW at Jesus College, Cambridge, after which he moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand for No 44 Course, from November 6 1939 to May 20 1940. Pinckney completed his course and was posted to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum for No 7 Course, from May 20 to June 22 1940. He went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 23 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 603 Squadron at Dyce on July 6. Pinckney claimed a Bf 109 shot down on August 29 but he was himself shot down, baled out, burned on face and hands, and was admitted to hospital. His Spitfire, R 6753,

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JOSEF PIPA

crashed at St Mary’s Road, Dymchurch. He was non-effective sick until mid-September. On September 27 Pinckney probably destroyed a Bf 109, on October 10 he damaged a Bf 109, on the 20th he destroyed another, on November 11 and 17 probably two more and on the 23rd destroyed a CR 42. On December 29 1940 Pinckney was posted to the Far East, ostensibly to be a member of 243 Squadron, which was to be reformed at Kallang. Instead Pinckney was put in charge of reforming 67 Squadron, also at Kallang, where it was reformed on March 12 1941. When the squadron was fully equipped with Buffalo IIs, Pinckney was appointed a Flight Commander. During actions fought against the Japanese in December 1941 and early January 1942, Pinckney destroyed at least four Japanese aircraft. He was killed on January 23 1942, as a Flight Lieutenant with 67 Squadron, aged 24. Pinckney is remembered on the Singapore Memorial, Column 412. His brother, Captain P H Pinckney, died on September 7 1943, aged 28. He was serving with the Royal Artillery and was reportedly murdered, whilst attached to the 2nd Special Air Service Regiment. He is buried in Florence War Cemetery, Italy.

145101

Pilot British

56 Squadron Born on February 5 1913, Pinfold joined the RAF on a short service commission in mid-September 1934. On the 29th he was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand and with training completed, he went to 6 Squadron at Ismailia, Egypt on September 5 1935.

After returning to the UK, Pinfold was posted to 64 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on March 19 1936 and on July 16 1938 he joined 502 Squadron, AAF, as Flying Instructor and Adjutant. He later joined 603 Squadron at Turnhouse, as Adjutant. He was still with 603 at the outbreak of war but was posted away soon afterwards. He went to 3 FTS, South Cerney on July 2 1940, as an instructor. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 11, for a refresher course. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 56 Squadron at North Weald on the 25th, as a supernumerary. Pinfold was appointed Acting Squadron Leader on August 30 and he assumed command of 56 Squadron on the 31st. He was granted a Permanent Commission on September 14 and on the 30th he probably destroyed a Do 17. He commanded 56 until January 29 1941, when he was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill, as an instructor. From January 2 to July 16 1945 Pinfold was at RAF Staff College, after which he was on the staff at Air HQ Kandy, Ceylon and later Singapore. Pinfold retired from the RAF on October 1 1958, as a Group Captain. APO 14.9.34 PO 14.9.35 FO 14.3.37 FL 14.3.39 SL 1.9.40 WC 1.9.42 WC 1.10.46 GC 1.7.53

PHILIP CAMPBELL PINKHAM 37208

FL

Pilot

British

Czechoslovakian

43 Squadron

After Hitler took over Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939, Pipa was demobilised on the 17th. He escaped to Poland in May and via Romania, eventually arrived in France in a Swedish fishing boat on July 30 1939. With other Czechs he signed on for five years in the Foreign Legion, the only way for a foreign national to join the French forces. He went to the Sidi-bel-Abbes depot in Algeria, for training. When war was declared, Pipa was seconded to l’Armée de l’Air and posted to Groupe de Chasse I/1 at Chartres. On March 8 1940 Pipa became operational with G de C 1/1 and on May 15 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17 and the probable destruction of a Do 215. He was awarded the Czech Military Cross and the C de G (Fr). When France capitulated Pipa escaped again, on June 23, this time to Oran. He reached Casablanca by train and went in a small boat to Gibraltar, from where he sailed in a convoy, via the Suez Canal and South Africa, to Liverpool, arriving on July 12. Pipa joined the RAFVR at the Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford, as an AC 2 (787510). He was promoted to Sergeant on September 18 and on the 21st he arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 43 Squadron at Usworth on October 4 and became operational on the 7th. One day in October 1941 his No 2 ditched in a rough sea without a dinghy, after his engine failed. Pipa made sure the pilot was out of his aircraft and obtained a fix for ASR. In the cramped space of his cockpit, he removed his Sutton harness and parachute, extracted his own dinghy, inflated it and dropped it within 50 yards of the pilot in the sea. For this action, Pipa was commended by the AOC and given a bar to the Czech Military Cross. On December 9 Pipa shared in the destruction of a Ju 88. On April 25 1942 he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88, off Acklington. Pipa was posted to 81 Squadron but his stay was short and he joined 313 Squadron. In June he joined 312 Squadron and took part in the Dieppe Raid on August 19, claiming a Do 215 damaged and an E-boat sunk by cannon fire. During a pre-dawn scramble, from Bolt Head, Pipa ran into sheep which had encroached on to the runway. The undercarriage was torn off and the tail unit twisted but the aircraft remained controllable and landed safely at nearby Exeter. Pipa was then posted to Church Stanton for a rest in November 1942 having been engaged continually on fighter duties since 1939. On February 1 1943 he was cleared for operations, commissioned and he rejoined 313 Squadron on the 4th. On May 12 1944 Pipa was attached to 84 Group Supply Unit for two months, after which he returned to 310 Squadron. He shot down a V 1 flying bomb on July 9 1944, near Folkestone. Two days later he was posted to 312 Squadron, becoming ‘A’ Flight Commander on February 1 1945. By the war’s end Pipa had completed four operational tours. On August 9 1945 Pipa was in one of a formation of thirty-six Spitfires flown by Czech pilots back to Czechoslovakia, to become part of a new Czech Air Force. They were stationed near Prague for two months and then moved to South Bohemia. Pipa was released from active service on May 6 1946. In July he returned to England, to take up British citizenship. He was employed in various jobs until July 24 1951, when he rejoined the RAF on a seven-year engagement. Initially he spent time with Ferry units but, after converting to jets, he spent his final three years on jet test duties with 20 MU and 33 MU at Wroughton. Pipa retired on July 24 1958, as a Flight Lieutenant but transferred to the reserve before finally relinquishing his commission on July 24 1962. Pipa and his wife then ran a boutique in Swindon but he continued flying as an air-tug (Auster) pilot with Swindon Gliding Club at South Marston airfield. Pipa died on January 2 1977. He was cremated at Kingsdown Crematorium, Swindon and his ashes were scattered over South Marston airfield.

HERBERT MORETON PINFOLD SL

Pilot

Pipa was born on October 13 1915 in Holesov, Czechoslovakia. He went to the local Technical College, studying English, French and Engineering. In 1937 he joined the Czech Air Force. He went to the Elementary Flying School at Olomouc, then to Fighter Pilot School in Prague during 1938 prior to being posted to a fighter squadron

PO (RAFVR) 6.12.38 PO 2.10.39 FO 6.6.40 FL 6.6.41

37021

Sgt

19 Squadron Pinkham, from Wembley, was educated at Kilburn Grammar School. After leaving, he worked for an insurance company and joined the 2nd or 3rd City of London Yeomanry, (Territorials).

In April 1935 Pinkham joined the RAF on a short service commission. He was posted to 6 FTS, Netheravon on May 7 and with his training completed, he joined 17 Squadron at Kenley on February 17 1936. He moved to the Meteorological Flight at Mildenhall on August 16 1937. He was posted to 11 Group on January 17 1938 and became an instructor at the Air Fighting School, Sutton Bridge. Pinkham was posted to 11 Group Pool at Andover at its formation on January 17 1939, as an instructor. The unit moved to St Athan on July 1 1939 and Pinkham took command of it on January 22 1940, as an Acting Squadron Leader. The Pool became 6 OTU on March 10 1940 and moved to Sutton Bridge. Pinkham commanded it until June 3, when he took command of 19 Squadron at Duxford. He was awarded the AFC (11.7.40). He was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 109s over the Thames Estuary on September 5 1940. His Spitfire, P 9422, is believed to have crashed into Whitehorse Wood, Birling, Kent. Pinkham was 25. He is buried in St Andrews’ churchyard, Kingsbury.

PO 2.2.43 FO 2.8.43 FL 2.2.45

ARTHUR HOWARD PIPER 68149

Sgt

Air Gunner

British 236 Squadron

Joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741262) but was invalided out in 1938 with high blood pressure. Piper rejoined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (746764). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 236 Squadron at Martlesham Heath in January 1940. On August 8 1940 Piper was gunner in Blenheim N 3603, which returned to Thorney Island with severe damage to its tail, caused by flak during a ground attack on Querqueville aerodrome. The aircraft was possibly also attacked by Oberfeldwebel Richter of III/JG 27. Piper and his pilot, Sergeant R C Smith, were unhurt. In October 1940 Piper was posted to 7 Squadron, operating in Stirlings from Oakington. He left the squadron in March 1941 and was commissioned in June. Piper joined 218 Squadron in August 1943, again with Stirlings and operating from Downham Market.

APO 16.4.35 PO 16.4.36 FO 16.10.37 FL 16.10.39

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He was posted away to HQ 11 Group on December 8 1941, as Polish Liaison Officer. Pisarek was appointed Wing Leader of the Northolt Polish Wing on April 17 1942. He was killed on April 29, leading the Wing over France, in Spitfire MB 307. He probably crashed into the sea. He is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt. He was awarded the VM (4th Class) (31.10.47). His portrait was done by Eric Kennington and Cuthbert Orde.

On one occasion he was rear gunner of an aircraft detailed for a mine-laying operation. Near the target the aircraft was attacked by a fighter. At the outset Piper’s turret was hit and his guns put out of action. He directed his captain’s manoeuvres so that eight attacks were frustrated and the enemy aircraft driven off. Piper was awarded the DFC (10.3.44). He took a pilot’s course in 1948 and qualified as an A 2 Instructor at CFS. Piper retired from the RAF on January 24 1958, as a Squadron Leader. He died on December 9 2005, aged 89. He was cremated at Guildford Crematorium.

FO 1.3.41 FL 1.9.41

PAUL BROOKS PITCHER C 615

FO

Pilot

HAROLD ALFRED PIPPARD PO

Air Gunner

British

29 Squadron In December 1935 Pitcher had joined the RCAF Auxiliary and served with 115 (F) Squadron, Montreal. He was with 1 (RCAF) Squadron when it arrived in the UK on June 20 1940. He was detached to RAF Uxbridge from July 10 to 15 for a short R/T procedure course. Pitcher damaged a He 111 on September 15, damaged a Do 17 on the 27th and destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another on October 5. He took command of the squadron on December 14 1940, as an Acting Squadron Leader. No 1 (RCAF) Squadron was re-numbered 401 Squadron on March 1 1941. Pitcher commanded until the 11th, when he was posted away. He later formed 411(RCAF) Squadron at Digby and commanded the squadron from June 16 to December 16 1941. After leave in Canada, Pitcher took command of the recently-formed 417 (RCAF) Squadron at Tain on March 28 1942. He led the squadron to the Middle East in April and served with it until November 17, when he was repatriated to Canada. Pitcher served as SASO at Western Air Command, Vancouver and temporarily commanded RCAF ‘X’ Wing at Anchorage, Alaska for nine months. He attended RCAF Air Staff College and then served at Air Force HQ, Ottawa until late March 1944. Pitcher then went back overseas, to 83 Group 2nd TAF. He returned to Canada in early September 1944 and was released on November 28 1944, as a Wing Commander. He died in 1998.

Born on June 15 1909, Pippard joined the RAFVR, with a direct-entry commission as an Air Gunner in early 1940. He was on 29 Squadron at Drem by April 4 1940. He served with it throughout the Battle of Britain. Pippard was released from the RAF in 1946 but rejoined in 1947. He retired on September 5 1958, as a Squadron Leader. APO 3.2.40 PO 16.3.40 FO 16.3.41 FL 16.3.42 SL 1.8.47

JOHN GILBERT PIPPET 86347

PO

Pilot

British

1 (RCAF) Squadron

Born in Montreal on August 5 1913, Pitcher was educated in Canada and at the Institut Sillig at Vevey, Switzerland. He graduated from the McGill University Law Faculty in 1938 and joined a law firm.

PO 5.6.41 FO 31.3.42 FL 31.3.43 SL 1.8.47

77365

Canadian

64 Squadron

Pippet, of Hull, joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754472). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at FTS on September 21 1940, was commissioned next day and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 23rd. After converting to Spitfires, Pippet joined 64 Squadron at Coltishall on October 16. He was killed on February 23 1941, still with 64, flying Spitfire P 7852 which was believed to have collided with another Spitfire. He was 21. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 34.

GEOFFREY EDWARD PITTMAN 41614

FO

Pilot

British

17 Squadron

PO 22.9.40 Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 31 1938, as a pupil pilot, at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield.

MARIAN PISAREK P 1381

FO

Pilot

Polish

303 Squadron He moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand on January 28 1939 and with training completed, he joined 17 Squadron at Croydon on September 3 1939. Pittman was posted from 17 Squadron to France on May 16 1940 and joined 85 Squadron at Lille/Seclin on the 17th. He rejoined 17 at Debden on May 23. From June 8 to 16 1940 the squadron used Le Mans, Dreux, Beaumont and Dinard as forward bases until withdrawn to Jersey on June 17 and to Debden on the 19th. After a week’s leave, the squadron

Pisarek was born on January 3 1912 at Jasinowo Gorne, in Poland. He was commissioned in the Army in 1934 and completed flying training at Deblin in 1935. He was posted to 61 Eskadra. After advanced training, Pisarek joined 141 Eskadra at Torun. In the fighting of September 1939, he and another pilot, Stanislaw Skalski, shared in the destruction of a Hs 126 on the 1st, Pisarek destroyed a Hs 126 and a Do 17 on the 2nd and on the 3rd he was given command of 141 Eskadra. On the 4th he damaged Ju 87. After the fall of France, Pisarek arrived in England on June 23 1940. He went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. On August 21 he joined 303 Squadron at Northolt. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on September 7. On this day Pisarek was himself shot down by a Bf 109 and baled out, unhurt. His Hurricane, R 4173, crashed in the back garden of 40 Roding Road, Loughton, Essex, killing three people in an air raid shelter. On September 15 Pisarek destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 28th he was appointed joint ‘B’ Flight Commander. On October 5 he destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged another and on the 7th destroyed another Bf 109. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (23.12.40). Pisarek was posted to 315 Squadron at Acklington at its formation on January 21 1941. He was awarded the KW (1.2.41). On March 30 he was posted to 308 Squadron at Baginton, as a Flight Commander. He took command of the squadron on June 23 1941. He destroyed Bf 109s on July 2 and 17, probably destroyed one on the 22nd and destroyed another four Bf 109s on August 14, September 20 and 21 and October 13. Pisarek was awarded three Bars to the KW and the DFC (30.10.41).

was operational again. On July 12 1940 Pittman shared a He 111 and on August 11 he shared in destroying a Bf 110, on the 25th he destroyed a Bf 110, on September 5 he shared in the probable destruction of a He 111 and on the 24th he damaged a Bf 109. Pittman damaged Do 17s on October 11 and 14 and he destroyed a Ju 87 on November 11. He was posted to CFS, Upavon on November 15, for an instructor’s course. He was at 8 FTS, Montrose from December 15 1940 to March 9 1941, when he went to Southern Rhodesia, serving as an instructor at 22 SFTS, Thornhill from April 24 1941 to February 20 1944. On his return to the UK, Pittman went to 57 OTU, Eshott for a Spitfire refresher course, then to 83 GSU, Redhill on May 26, to convert to Mustang IIIs. He joined 122 Squadron at Funtington on June 5 and moved with it to Normandy on the 25th. The squadron returned to England on September 29 and began escorting RAF heavy bombers on daylight saturation raids on German targets, flying from Andrews Field, Essex. In January 1945 Pittman was posted to No 1 Radio School at Cranwell for a Specialist Signals Officer Course. He was appointed Station Signals Officer at RAF Valley in November and was released from the RAF in January 1946, as a Squadron Leader. Pittman emigrated to Australia in 1957. He died there in late 2001 or early 2002 APO 14.1.39 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.45

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RONALD ERIC PLANT 748027

Sgt

Pilot

British

Plenderleith joined 253 Squadron at La Sebala on October 4 1943, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. The squadron moved to Italy later in the month. He was posted to the UK on May 19 1944 and awarded the DFC (7.7.44). He was on ground duties at 26 OTU from July to September, on a basic engineering course at RAF Henlow from September to November and on an armament course at the Empire Air Armament School at RAF Manby from November 1944 to February 1945. From March 14 1945 until released from the RAF on July 21 1947 Plenderleith served at 9 MU, Cosford and RAF Leconfield, Polebrook and Henlow, on test pilot and ferrying duties. He was employed as a civilian test pilot by de Havilland’s until June 1964, when he retired from active flying. Plenderleith also served in the RAFVR from May 27 1949 to August 1951, on flying duties. He died on March 5 2005 at St Albans, aged 86.

72 and 611 Squadrons

Plant, of Coventry, was brought up by his aunt and her husband. He was educated at The King Henry VIII Grammar School in Coventry. Plant made his first flight in a Tiger Moth on March 5 1939. He joined the RAFVR on April 28, as an Airman u/t Pilot, he described his profession as ‘Gents Outfitter’. He did his elementary flying at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty. Called up on September 1 1939, he went to ITW at Bexhill on October 30 and on December 10 he moved to 8 FTS, Montrose. With the course completed on May15 1940, Plant joined 72 Squadron at Acklington. Although he had had some flying experience in Spitfires at Acklington, he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 1 for a Spitfire conversion course. He rejoined 72 Squadron on July 15. Plant moved to 611 Squadron at Digby on October 10 and before the Battle of Britain ended on the 31st, he had flown six operational sorties. He joined 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on November 5. On his second sortie with 603, on November 21 1940, Plant collided with a He 111, which he was attacking, over Faversham. The enemy aicraft crashed and the crew of four were killed and Plant’s Spitfire, P 7387, crashed and burned out at Buckland Farm, Widdenham. His body was recovered from the wreckage and taken back, under escort, to Coventry. His destruction of the He 111 was 603’s 100th victory. Plant was 21. He is buried in St Michael’s churchyard, Stoke, Coventry.

PO 21.11.42 FO 21.5.43 FL 21.11.4 FO (RAFVR) 27.5.49

RICHARD PRYER PLUMMER 39753

PO

Air Gunner

British

Pilot

British

46 Squadron

Born on August 2 1912 at Haywards Heath, Plummer was educated at Hillcrest Preparatory School and Cranleigh School. From 1930 he worked in the Claims Department of the National Employers Mutual Insurance Co in the City of London. In 1934 he became a surveyor’s assistant with the Cuckfield Urban District Council. Plummer joined Class ‘F’ of the RAF Reserve on August 24 1936, as an Airman u/t Pilot (700642). He remustered as Pilot (2) on October 11 1936. He was discharged on May 17 1937, on appointment to an RAF short service commission. He carried out his elementary flying training at 5 E&RFTS, Hanworth, went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on May 18 for a short disciplinary course and on June 5 he was posted to 11 FTS, Shawbury. On August 3 1937 Plummer moved to 5 FTS, Sealand, to complete his training. He joined 46 Squadron at Digby on February 19 1938. Plummer shared in the destruction on a He 115 thirty miles E of Withernsea on October 21 1939 and damaged a He 111 on October 27. Plummer went with 46 Squadron to Norway in May 1940. He was evacuated by sea on June 8 and was at Digby when the squadron reformed there on June 13. It was operational again by the end of the month. Plummer was shot down in combat with enemy fighters on September 4 1940. He baled out, landing at Stambridge, with extensive burns to legs, hands and face and was admitted to Southend Municipal Hospital, Rochford. His Hurricane, P 3052, crashed and burned out on the railway line at Rectory Road, Hawkwell. After Southend Hospital was bombed, Plummer was transferred to St Luke’s Hospital, Bradford. He died there on September 14 1940. He is buried in Western Road Cemetery, Haywards Heath. There is a memorial plaque to him at Cranleigh School.

GEOFFREY FRANK COLMAN PLEDGER 79216

FO

141 Squadron

Pledger, of Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex, joined the RAFVR on May 18 1940, with a direct-entry commission as an Air Gunner. With training completed, he joined 141 Squadron at Turnhouse in late June 1940. Pledger was attached to CGS, Warmwell for No 8 Gunnery Leader Course, which ran from July 16 to August 15 1940. He teamed up with Flying Officer D C Williams and they flew together until they were both killed on April 4 1941, on a sortie with 141 Squadron. Pledger was 35. He is buried in Sutton Road Cemetery, Southend-on-Sea, Essex. APO 18.5.40 PO 15.6.40

APO 18.5.37 PO 15.3.38 FO 15.10.39

ROBERT PLENDERLEITH 139411

Sgt

Pilot

British

73 Squadron

STANISLAV PLZAK 102595

Plenderleith was a young trainee in aeronautical engineering at Supermarine Aviation, Southampton, when he joined the RAFVR on May 29 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740301).

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

310 and 19 Squadrons

Plzak was born in Plzen on November 13 1914. He joined the Military Aviation Academy at Prostejov as a cadet on October 1 1932 and began his military service on August 1 1934. He was posted to the Training Squadron of 1st Air Regiment at Prague-Kbely. Shortly after, he was transferred to 4th Observation Squadron at the airbase. He remained there until September 28 1937 during that period he completed pilot and night-flying training. He was selected for fighter pilot training and went to the Military Aviation Academy at Hradec Kralove. On February 15 1938 he was posted to 4th Air Regiment and on June 30 he went to the Regiment’s 32nd Fighter Squadron which was equipped with B-534 aircraft. After the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939 Plzak was demobilised on the 17th. On June 8 he crossed the border, near Radvanice, to Poland and reported to the Czechoslovak Consul in Krakow. After a short stay, he travelled to Gdynia, Poland, and boarded the Kastelholm in which he sailed to Boulogne, arriving on July 31. He was required to join the French Foreign Legion for a five year engagement with the agreement that he would transfer to a French military unit if war was declared. He went to the Legion base at Place Balard but, before he could be transferred to the Legion training base in Algeria, war was declared and he transferred to l’Armée de l’Air on September 11. He went to Ecole de Pilotage at Avord for re-training to French equipment. On January 16 1940 he went to CIC Chartres for further training and, on May 17, was assigned to GCII/2, based at Laon-Chambry which was equipped with MS-406c fighter aircraft.

He carried out his flying training at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble and being of a high standard, he was offered six months training with the regular RAF, which began at 11 Group Pool at Andover on April 1 1939. On August 25 Plenderleith joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere and after the outbreak of war he remained with it until May 16 1940, when he was posted to RAF Hendon, for onward posting to France. Plenderleith joined 73 Squadron at Gaye on May 21. After the French collapse, 73 was withdrawn to Church Fenton on June 18 1940. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on September 27 and returned, damaged, to Kenley, in Hurricane P 3785. Whilst acting as weaver on October 11 he was shot down and baled out, slightly burned. His Hurricane, V 6676, crashed at Dillywood, Frindsbury. Plenderleith was admitted to Chatham Hospital and transferred later to the Royal Naval Auxiliary Hosptial at Newton Abbot. Discharged in December, he was posted to SHQ Debden on Duty Pilot and Aerodrome Control Pilot duties. On March 9 1941 Plenderleith went to 17 Squadron at Martlesham Heath but a month later he was posted to 59 OTU, Crosby-on-Eden, as an instructor. He was there until September 25, leaving then for overseas. Plenderleith began instructing at 71 OTU, Khartoum, Sudan on October 31 1941. He rejoined 73 Squadron, then in the Western Desert, on October 27 1942. He was commissioned in November.

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relinquished his acting rank. After an attachment to HQ 131 Wing from November 9 1945, he rejoined 308 as supernumerary on August 16 1946. He had received a third Bar to the KW (8.3.46). He was released from the PAF in December 1946 and repatriated to Poland on February 24 1947. Pniak died there on October 17 1980.

On June 1 he shared in the destruction of a He 111 and on the 5th he shared in destroying two Bf 109s. When the Germans invaded France the Blitzkreig caused GCII/2 to move airfields frequently as it retreated westward and by mid-June the unit was at Frejorgues, near Montpellier, in southern France. After the French collapse, Plzak, together with other Czech airmen, was released from service with l’Armee de l’Air. The Commander of GCII/2 had the Czech airmen from his unit flown to Perpignan in a Lockheed L-12. From there they travelled to Port Vendres. On June 24 they boarded the General Chanzy and sailed for Oran, Algeria. From Oran they travelled, by train, to Casablanca where they boarded the Gib-el-Ders, bound for Gibraltar. Here they transferred to the Neuralia bound for England and they arrived in Liverpool on July 12. Initially, Plzak was at the Czechoslovak Transit Camp at Cholmondeley but moved to the Airmen’s Depot at Cosford on July 20. He enlisted in the RAFVR (787502) on July 25 and joined 310 Squadron at Duxford. He was attached to 19 Squadron at Fowlmere on August 27. On September 4 Plzak probably destroyed a Bf 109, on the 5th destroyed another. He destroyed a Ju 88a on September 18 and a Bf 109 on the 27th. On November 15 he destroyed a Me 110. He was shot down by Bf 109s over Southend on November 28 1940 but was unhurt. He damaged a Bf 109 on June 27 1941. He was commissioned on August 7 1941. On the same day he was reported ‘Missing’ on a sortie with 19 Squadron over Mardyck, in Spitfire P 7771 which was due to be his final sortie prior to completing his operational tour. On the return from escorting Blenheim bombers which attacked Lille, the formation was attacked by Bf 109s from JGs 2 and 26, near Calais. Plzak’s aircraft probably crashed into the English Channel. His body was never recovered. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 34.

PO 24.1.40 FO 1.9.41 FL 1.3.43

MAURICE HENRY POCOCK 124960

Polish

British

72 Squadron

He achieved a high standard and the required number of flying hours and was offered six months training with the regular RAF. Pocock joined 72 Squadron at Church Fenton on June 1 1939 and still being with it at the outbreak of war, he was taken on to 72’s strength in September 1939. He was detached to 12 Group Pool for a period of further training and he rejoined 72 on December 5 1939. Pocock was still with 72 at the start of the Battle of Britain. On August 31 he damaged a Do 17. On September 1 1940 his Spitfire, L 1056, was severely damaged in combat with a Bf 109 over Beachy Head. He made a belly-landing at West Malling, wounded in the left leg and wrist and was admitted to Preston Hall Hospital, Maidstone. Pocock rejoined the squadron on October 21 with his next sortie on the 25th. On May 8 1941 he was sent up from Acklington to intercept an unidentified aircraft. He climbed to 15,000 feet but Rudolf Hess, whose Bf 110 it was, lost height as he crossed the English coast but a combination of cloud, mist, fading light and Hess’ high speed ensured that he was not intercepted. In a letter to his wife, Hess said that he saw a Spitfire, which could have been Pocock’s. Posted away on November 19 1941, Pocock went to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as an instructor. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in May 1942, Pocock joined 93 Squadron at Wansford on September 24. It left on October 20 1942 and landed at Algiers on November 13. Pocock was posted to 152 Squadron at Souk-el-Khemis on April 23 1943, as a Flight Commander. The next day his aircraft was damaged by flak and he made a belly-landing, with an overheated engine. After spending the night in a nearby monastery at Thibar, Pocock was picked up by squadron transport. On June 13 1943 Pocock left 152 and returned to the UK in an aircraft from Algiers. He went to HQ Fighter Command on July 1 and whilst awaiting a posting, he gave talks at factories. Pocock returned to the Middle East on October 5 1943, to join 108 Squadron, to fly Beaufighters. He left the squadron on January 19 1944 and returned to the UK. Pocock was posted to 21(P) AFU at Seighford, Staffordshire on April 7, as an instructor on Oxfords. He went to the School of Flying Control, Watchfield for a course on July 22 1946 and on October 28 he was posted to 38 MU, St Athan. Pocock received a Mention in Despatches (8.6.44). Released from the RAF on December 18 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant, he died in 1995.

KAROL PNIAK Pilot

Pilot

Born at Caversham, Berkshire on August 1 1920, Pocock went to work for the Oxfordshire County Council, as an office boy. On July 21 1938 he joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741804).

PO 7.8.41

76707 PO

Sgt

32 and 257 Squadrons Born at Jaworzno, Cracow on January 26 1910, Pniak joined the PAF on October 23 1928, with No 2 Air Regiment. He went to the NCOs’ Flying Training School at Bydgoszcz on May 5 1930 and was attached to No 2 Air Regiment from October 1 1930.

After a course at the Central Gunnery and Bombing School, Pniak joined 122 Eskadra at Cracow on September 15 1931 and was with it until September 1936. He was later commissioned and joined 142 Eskadra at Torun on June 15 1939. He served in the campaign against the Germans in September. On the 2nd Pniak destroyed a Do 17, on the 3rd he shared in the destruction of a Hs 126 and on the 4th he damaged a Ju 87 and a Do 17. When Poland fell, he crossed into Romania and then made his way to France, joining the Polish Air Force there on October 29 1939. Pniak arrived in England in January 1940 and was commissioned in the RAFVR at Eastchurch on the 24th. From June 1 1940 Pniak was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. He was on the 1st Polish Pilots’ Course at No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum from July 5 to 13, for testing and grading. He was attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 15th and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on August 4. Pniak probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 12th, probably destroyed a Do 17 and a Bf 109 on the 15th, destroyed two Bf 109s on the 18th, damaged a Do 17 on the 22nd and probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 24th. On this day Pniak was shot down in combat with Bf 109s over Folkestone, baled out, injured his ankle and knee in a heavy landing and was admitted to hospital. His Hurricane, V 6572, crashed at Rhodes Minnis, near Lyminge. He was non-effective sick until early September. On September 15 Pniak was posted to 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath. He claimed a Fiat BR 20 destroyed on November 11 and shared in the destruction of two others. He was posted to 306 Squadron at Ternhill on the 23rd. Pniak was awarded the VM (5th Class) (1.2.41) and the KW (1.1.41). He was posted away to the AFDU at Duxford on April 18 1941 and on January 30 1942 he returned to 306, for duties in the Operations Room. He was awarded the DFC (1.6.42). Pniak returned to operations with 306 on December 1 1942, as a Flight Commander. He went to West Kirby on February 13 1943, to prepare for overseas and on March 13 arrived in the Middle East in a C47, with other Polish pilots to form the Polish Fighting Team, otherwise known as Skalski’s Circus. They were attached to 145 Squadron and operated in the Western Desert from March 17 to May 12 and destroyed thirty enemy aircraft. After returning to the UK, Pniak went to the Polish Wing on ground duties, moved to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on September 24 1943, as an instructor, and went to the Northolt Operations Room on November 23. He was awarded two Bars to the KW (20.12.43). Pniak then went to 61 OTU, Rednal on March 12 1944. He was posted to 84 Group on September 25 and on November 28 returned to operations, taking command of 308 Squadron at Ghent. Pniak led the squadron until June 30 1945. He then went to HQ PAF, Blackpool and

PO 16.5.42 FO 16.11.42 FL 16.5.44

JOSEPH KENNETH POLLARD 740815

Sgt

Pilot

British

3 and 232 Squadrons

Pollard joined the RAFVR about October 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 3 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, Pollard joined 3 Squadron at Wick on June 23. He was with ‘B’ Flight of 3 Squadron, when it was transferred to Sumburgh on July 17 1940, to be redesignated 232 Squadron, which was reformed on the 21st. Pollard was still with 232 on November 4 1940. He was killed on December 12 1941, as a Flight Sergeant serving with 55 OTU. He was flying Hurricane P 3900 which went missing over the sea. Pollard is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 37.

PHILIP SELWYN COVEY POLLARD 41462

FO

Pilot

British

611 Squadron

Pollard, of Kingston, Surrey, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 6 1938. He was at 6 FTS, Little Rissington on No 11 Course, which ran from January 2 to August 6 1939, on the completion of which he joined 87 Squadron at Debden.

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PETER DESMOND POOL

Pollard joined 611 Squadron at Duxford on September 5 1939 and was still with it in July 1940. He destroyed a Do 17 on September 15 and on October 11 he shared in destroying two more Do 17s. On May 28 1941 Pollard shared a probable Bf 109 and on June 18 he shared in the destruction of another. 611 Squadron acted as high cover for bombers attacking the railway marshalling yards at Hazebrouck on June 22 1941. In an engagement with Bf 109s Pollard was shot down and killed. In this, his final action, he destroyed a Bf 109. Pollard was 21 and is buried in Dunkirk Town Cemetery, France.

83281

Pilot

British

British

266 and 72 Squadrons

Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 2 FTS, Brize Norton on No 47 Course, which ran from April 28 to August 3 1940. He was commissioned and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 10. After converting to Spitfires, Pool joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on the 26th. He moved to 72 Squadron at Biggin Hill on October 3. He was shot down in flames by a Bf 109 during combat over a convoy off Deal on the 11th and baled out, wounded. His Spitfire, K 9870, crashed at Milton Regis, Sittingbourne. Pool was killed on August 19 1942, as a Flight Lieutenant with 610 Squadron. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 66.

ARTHUR HERBERT DORRIEN POND F/Sgt

Pilot

Born on July 21 1916, Pool was at Cheltenham College from 1930 to 1934. He joined the RAFVR in April 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740162).

APO 14.12.38 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40

51845

PO

601 Squadron

Born on December 15 1914, Pond was educated at Southall County School, Middlesex. He joined the RAF in January 1931, as an Aircraft Apprentice (565290), at No 1 S of TT, Halton. He passed out as an LAC Metal Rigger in December 1933 and was posted to 41 Squadron at Northolt. He later served on the permanent staff of 6 FTS, Netheravon.

PO 10.8.40 FO 4.8.41 FL 4.8.42

ERIC LEONARD RONALD POOLE Having applied for pilot training, Pond was selected and in July 1936 he was posted for an ab initio course at 5 E&RFTS, Hanworth, after which he went to 6 FTS, Ternhill, for intermediate and advanced training. With the course completed, Pond joined 80 Squadron at Henlow in May 1937, to fly Gladiators. In April 1938 he was posted to No 1 AACU, then at Biggin Hill but later at Weston Zoyland and Farnborough. Pond was on a No 1 AACU detachment, formed at Farnborough in early 1940, for service in France with the BEF. It went to Abbeville on February 25 but returned to Farnborough on March 19 1940. Pond arrived 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 28 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 601 Squadron at Middle Wallop on June 9. In the early evening of July 11 601 intercepted a formation of He 111s heading for the naval base at Portsmouth. Pond attacked one, which blew up and collided with the one flying next to it. Pond’s first victim, from KG 55, crashed at East Beach, Selsey. On an earlier patrol that day he probably destroyed a Ju 87. On July 26 Pond damaged a Bf 109, on August 13 he damaged a Ju 88 and a Bf 109, on the 15th he shot down a Ju 88 of II/LG 1, which crashed into the sea S of Southampton, its crew being rescued by an aircraft of Seenotflugkommando. Three days later Pond attacked a Ju 87 during a raid on Thorney Island. It began to smoke but then the gunner’s return fire hit Pond’s engine and his windscreen was covered with oil. He rolled and dived away, managed to reach Tangmere and made a crash-landing after his engine cut as he crossed the boundary. His Hurricane, V 7305 was repairable and Pond was unhurt. Pond received a Mention in Despatches (29.9.40). With bad hearing problems, he lost his operational category in December 1940. In March 1941 he moved to 1403 Met Flight at St Eval and soon afterwards to 1404 Met Flight at Tangmere. In May he became an air-firing instructor at 2 (Coastal) OTU, Millom. He went to 1401 Met Flight at Bircham Newton in February 1942, became a staff pilot at 1447 Flight at Hooton Park in May 1942 and later moved to 10 Radio School at Carew Cheriton. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in December 1942, Pond was given command of the HQ Technical Training Command Flight at White Waltham in April 1944, which appointment he held until October 1945. Pond was awarded the AFC (1.1.46). He was granted a Permanent Commission in February 1949, in the Secretarial Branch, and retired on December 17 1963, as a Squadron Leader. Pond died on November 14 2003.

53222

Sgt

Pilot

British

604 Squadron

Poole was born in Southend-on-Sea on July 2 1917. He was educated at Bournemouth Park School and Southend Day Technical and Commercial School. He joined the RAF in January 1934, as an Aircraft Apprentice (566848) and passed out in December 1936, as a Fitter. In January 1937 Poole was posted to 54 Squadron and moved to 65 Squadron in July 1938. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot on August 24 1939. He completed his training at 14 FTS, Kinloss on No 3 Course, which ran from November 4 1939 to April 20 1940 and he joined 604 Squadron at Northolt on April 21. He was detached from 604 to RAF Uxbridge on May 22 1940, for a short course on R/T procedure. Poole served with 604 Squadron throughout the Battle of Britain and was credited with damaging two enemy aircraft, one at night. In June 1941 he was posted to 59 OTU, Crosbyon-Eden, as an instructor. In February 1942 Poole went to 87 Squadron at Charmy Down and carried out some Turbinlite sorties. He joined 1449 Flight in the Scillies in May 1942, involved in escorts of air-sea rescue operations. Poole was commissioned from Warrant Officer in June 1943. He was with the Flight until December 1944, when he applied for early release from the RAF to join Scottish Airways. This was granted in January 1945 and he became an airline pilot, later moving from Scottish Airways to British European Airways. Poole was BEA’s youngest ever Flight Manager. Later he was at Smith’s Industries, helping to develop the Autoland System for BEA and in 1965 he piloted the first automatic landing in the world with fare-paying passengers. Poole became the Chief Technical Pilot for British Airways (European Division) and when he retired in 1976 he was BA’s most senior pilot. He was awarded the Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service in the Air. Poole died on December 13 2002. PO 30.7.43 FO 3.1.44

JERZY POPLAWSKI 76751

PO

Pilot

Polish

111 and 229 Squadrons

PO 1.12.42 FO 1.6.43 FL 1.12.44 FL 1.6.47 SL 1.7.53 Born in Model, 70 miles E of Warsaw on September 21 1919, Poplawski joined the PAF in 1938 and was trained and commissioned as a light bomber pilot.

WILLIAM ALAN PONTING 79216

PO

Air Gunner

British

264 Squadron When Poland fell, he made his way to France and arrived in England in late 1939. Poplawski was commissioned in the RAFVR in January 1940 at RAF Eastchurch. From June 1 1940 he was at the Polish Wing, 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. On August 12 he went to No 1 School of Army Cooperation, Old Sarum for the 4th Polish Pilots’ Course, for testing and grading. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 19. After converting to Hurricanes, Poplawski joined 111 Squadron at Drem on September 10 1940. He moved to 229 Squadron at Northolt on the 26th. Poplawski was injured on November 6, when he made a forced-landing at Streatley, in Hurricane P 3898, having lost the squadron in cloud and run out of fuel. He was posted to the Polish Depot, Blackpool on November 13 1940. Poplawski was posted to 308 Squadron at Baginton on March 16 1941. He destroyed Bf 109s on September 4, 16, 21, 27 and October 13 and damaged another on November 8. He

Ponting, of Whetstone, Middlesex, joined the RAFVR in May 1940, with a direct-entry commission as an Air Gunner. With training completed, he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on June18, converted to Defiants and then joined 264 Squadron at Duxford on July 9. Following a combat with Ju 88s and Bf 109s over the Channel off Thanet on August 24 1940, Ponting and his pilot, Pilot Officer J T Jones, were reported ‘Missing’. Their Defiant, L 6966, was possibly shot down into the sea by Major Lützow of JG 3. Ponting was 30. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 9. APO 18.5.40 PO 15.6.40

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FREDERICK HYAM POSENER

was awarded the KW and Bar (30.10.41), a second Bar (19.2.42) and the VM (5th Class) (4.3.42). He was appointed a Flight Commander on April 30 1942 and posted away on September 1 to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as an instructor. He went to Hullavington on September 29 for a course and returned to 58 OTU on January 28 1943. Poplawski was given command of 315 Squadron at Hutton Cranswick on April 16 and on the 20th he damaged a FW 190. He was awarded a third Bar to the KW (20.10.43) and remained with the squadron until February 15 1944, being then posted to the Inspectorate at the PAF Staff College. He went to HQ Fighter Command on February 28 1944 and was released from the PAF in February 1947. In 1996 he was reported to be living in Buenos Aires.

41735

Air Gunner

British

South African

152 Squadron

He was sent from 152 to Blue Section of 152, then on detachment at Sumburgh. Posener crashed in a Gladiator on December 23 and was seriously injured. On recovery, he rejoined 152. He was still with 152 Squadron in July 1940 and went south with it to Warmwell on the 12th. On July 20 he was shot down by Oberleutnant Homuth of 3/JG 27 over the Channel off Swanage, in Spitfire K 9880. He was seen to bale out but his body was never recovered. Posener was 23. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 9.

EDWARD FRANCIS PORTER Sgt

Pilot

Posener was born in East London, South Africa on August 11 1916. He went to England in 1938 and joined the RAF on a short service commission. He began his ab initio course on December 28 1938. He went on to 3 FTS, South Cerney and after completing his training, he joined 152 Squadron at its reformation at Acklington on October 1 1939, equipped with Gladiators.

PO 27.1.40 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.3.43

542209

PO

141 Squadron APO 4.3.39 PO 23.9.39

Porter, of Glasgow, joined the RAF in July 1937, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG, completed his training and joined 141 Squadron at Turnhouse on August 20 1940.

JOHN ALFRED POTTER 580179

Sgt

Pilot

He was posted away to Kirton-in-Lindsey on the 30th to join 307 Squadron, then about to be formed there with Defiants, as the first Polish night-fighter unit. Porter was killed on July 2 1941, as a Flight Sergeant with 12 Squadron, operating in Wellingtons from Binbrook, Lincolnshire. His aircraft, W 5419, did not return from an operation to Bremen and is presumed to have crashed into the sea. Porter was 21. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 37

Sgt Pilot

British

In June 1935 Potter joined Class ‘F” of the RAF Reserve (700217) and began flying training at Brough, obtaining his pilot’s licence on September 10 of that year. In 1936 he joined the regular RAF as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot, completed his flying training at 11 FTS, Wittering and in early 1937 he was posted to 19 Squadron at Duxford, equipped with Gauntlets. The first Spitfire to go into squadron service arrived at Duxford on August 4 1938. 19 Squadron was placed on alert during the Munich crisis and was fully operational at the

242 and 615 Squadrons

Porter attended Quarry Bank School, Liverpool and worked as an engineer at the Bristol Aeroplane Company. As well as flying with the Bristol University flying school. He joined the RAFVR in November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742476). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 27 1940.

outbreak of war. Potter was attached to 611 Squadron, newly equipped with Spitfires, firstly at Duxford and later at Digby in September/October 1939. He rejoined 19 on October 15 1939. Over Dunkirk on May 26, he destroyed a Bf 109. On June 1 his Spitfire was severely damaged in combat over Dunkirk and the engine seized at 4,000 feet, still fifteen miles from the English coast. Potter saw a small boat, glided down and landed on the sea nearby. He was picked up by a French fishing boat. As they approached the port of Dunkirk, a destroyer, HMS Basilisk, was seen, stopped. Its engines were out of action through bombing. The French crew agreed to tow the destroyer further out, away from the bombers. In the course of all this, German bombers appeared, attacked without result and were driven off by Spitfires of 19 Squadron. Towing began again. Ju 87s then appeared and their bombs set the destroyer sinking. The fishing boat took off 200 men and another destroyer arrived to pick up more survivors. Potter eventually landed at Dover, having been transferred to a coastal patrol boat. Potter claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on August 16. He failed to return from combat with enemy fighters on September 15 1940, in Spitfire X 4070. He ditched in the Channel, with severe aircraft damage and a foot wound, caused by a bullet through the cockpit floor. Potter was picked up by a German naval launch and taken to Saint Omer. After periods in hospital in Lille, Brussels and Malines and the loss of two toes, he was sent to Stalag Luft 1 at Barth on December 17 1940. A move to Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan came on April 20 1942 and another to Stalag Luft 6 at Heydekrug was made on June 19 1943. In July 1944 Potter was sent to the Offlag at Belaria. In the face of the advancing Russian army the camp was evacuated on November 23 and a week later the prisoners arrived at Stalag Luft 3A at Luchenwalde. The Germans finally left the camp on April 23 1945 and the Russians arrived two days later. Repatriation began on May 23 and Potter flew into Dunsfold on the 29th, in a Lancaster. After attending various rehabilitation courses, Potter was released from the RAF in June 1946, as a Warrant Officer. He died suddenly on May 14 1977.

After converting to Hurricanes, Porter went to Hendon on June 6 for onward posting to France, where he joined No 1 Squadron. He was with 242 Squadron at Coltishall in late June 1940. He moved to 615 Squadron at Kenley on August 10 and claimed a Ju 87 destroyed and shared in the destruction of another on the 14th. Porter’s last sortie with 615 was made on August 15 and he then became non-effective sick. After a Medical Board at Halton, he was posted away from 615 on September 23 1940, to No 1 FTS, Leuchars, as an instructor. He then instructed in South Africa. Commissioned in November 1941, he later served with 256 Squadron in Italy. He was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Flight Lieutenant, and later flew with BOAC, West African Airways and Bahamas Airways until the mid 1960s. Porter died in Liverpool on November 12 1998. PO 19.11.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 19.11.43

OWEN WELLS PORTER 146316

Sgt

Pilot

British

19 Squadron

Born in Wallasey, Cheshire on January 7 1915, Potter was educated at Oldershaw Grammar School. After leaving, he worked for his uncle, a builder in Liverpool.

JOHN ANTHONY PORTER 116148

British

111 Squadron

Porter joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745146). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 6 FTS, Little Rissington on No 19 Course, which ran from April 27 to August 3 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 3 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 111 Squadron at Debden on August 31. He was posted from 111 to 2 CFS, Cranwell on December 29 1940. Commissioned from Flight Sergeant on February 1 1943, Porter was killed on July 31 1944, as a Flying Officer with 21 Squadron, operating in Mosquitos from Thorney Island. He was 23 and is buried in Morgny-la-Pommeraye churchyard, France.

HARRY ROBERT GODFREY POULTON 84925

PO

Pilot

British

616 and 64 Squadron

Poulton was born on September 19 1918, His father was killed in the Great War. In 1927 Poulton started at the London Orphan School at Watford. In 1934 he began work at Maple & Co, the well-known London furnishers. Poulton joined the RAFVR about November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742582) and began his elementary flying training at 18 E&RFTS, Fair Oaks. Called up at the outbreak of war, he was posted to No 1 ITW, Cambridge, went to 22

PO 1.2.43 FO 1.8.43

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ROBIN PETER REGINALD POWELL

EFTS Cambridge in January 1940 and then to 15 FTS, Middle Wallop in May 1940. Poulton completed his training at 15 FTS, Chipping Norton on August 30 and he arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 616 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on September 23, moving to 64 Squadron at Leconfield on October 12. During a routine patrol on the 28th, Poulton made a forced-landing near Horsford in Spitfire N 3293, cause unknown. On November 27 1940 he was posted to 74 Squadron at Biggin Hill. He damaged a Do 17 on March 4 1941, destroyed a Bf 109 over North Foreland on May 7, probably destroyed a Bf 109 on June 24 and destroyed a Bf 109 on July 3. Later in July Poulton was reported for low flying and posted away from 74 to No 1 ADU at Hendon. He was court-martialled in August and found to be Not Guilty. He was immediately posted to 53 OTU, Llandow, as an instructor on Spitfires. On February 15 1942 he collided with another Spitfire, flown by Flying Officer J H Pickering, who was killed. Poulton escaped with bruises. He was posted to 611 Squadron at Drem in March 1942. Some time later he was injured in a motor accident and after recovery, he rejoined 64 Squadron at Fairlop in September 1942. He damaged a FW 190 NW of Calais on January 20 1943. He was awarded the DFC (25.5.43). On January 14 1944 Poulton’s Spitfire, EP 549, had engine failure near Dieppe and he baled out, before it dived into the Channel. He broke his leg on landing and was captured by the Germans. After two months in hospital at Amiens, Poulton was sent to Dulag Luft at Frankfurt, moving soon afterwards to Stalag Luft I at Barth. In January 1945 Poulton was repatriated in an exchange of wounded prisoners and went into RAF Hospital, Weeton. He was released from the RAF in September 1946. He rejoined in September 1951, in the Aircraft Control Branch. Poulton retired on September 9 1968, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in May 1998.

33278

Radar Operator

British

25 Squadron

Pound joined the RAFVR in December 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He later volunteered for aircrew duties, did a short radar course and joined 25 Squadron at North Weald on October 3 1940. He flew his first operational sortie on the 7th.

PO 1.8.36 FO 1.2.38 FL 1.2.40 SL 1.3.41 WC 1.6.42 WC 1.1.49 GC 1.7.58

SYDNEY WILLIAM MARTIN POWELL

During the night of May 5/6 1941, Pound, then a Sergeant, was flying with Sergeant S V Holloway. They intercepted and damaged a He 111 near Walton, Norfolk, in Beaufighter R 2156. At night on May 8/9, again with Holloway as pilot, they damaged a Ju 88 near Grantham, in Beaufighter R 2197. No further service details traced.

68136

Sgt

Air Gunner

Sgt

Air Gunner British

25 Squadron

On September 3 Powell was in Blenheim L 1512, when it was shot down in error, in daylight over North Weald, by a Hurricane of 46 Squadron, piloted by Flight Lieutenant A C Rabagliati. The Blenheim pilot, Pilot Officer D W Hogg was killed and Powell baled out, unhurt. Powell was killed on November 21 1940. The aircraft he was in, Beaufighter R 2068, crashed into the sea shortly after taking off from Tangmere. The pilot, Pilot Officer E W J Monk, was also killed. On this flight Powell was flying as a radar operator. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 18.

PO 16.5.41 FO 16.5.42 FO 16.5.43 FO (RAuxAFRO) 12.5.49

GEORGE ffOLLIOTT POWELL-SHEDDEN 33277

RONALD JAMES POWELL PO

Pilot

British

141 Squadron

On the ill-fated patrol from Hawkinge on the 19th, when nine Defiants were jumped by Bf 109s, Powell was flying with Pilot Officer H N Tamblyn. They claimed a Bf 109 destroyed in the one-sided battle and returned safely to Hawkinge, one of only four Defiants to do so. Commissioned in May 1941, Powell was posted to 410 (RCAF) Squadron on July 8 1941. Powell was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He joined the RAuxAF in May 1949, in the Fighter Control Branch. He died in 1979.

Powell joined the RAF in February 1938, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and with training completed, he was with 25 Squadron at North Weald in February 1940, with the rank of Aircraftsman.

84324

British

Powell joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG, in April 1939 (747702). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and he was with 141 Squadron at Turnhouse in early July 1940.

EDWIN POWELL 548940

111 Squadron

He graduated on July 31 1936, with a Permanent Commission. Powell joined 111 Squadron at Northolt on August 1 1936. He went to 213 Squadron at its formation at Northolt on March 8 1937. Powell later rejoined 111 and was ‘A’ Flight Commander at the outbreak of war. On January 13 1940 he shared in destroying a He 111 near Farne Island and on April 10 he shared another at Scapa Flow. During the May blitzkrieg 111 Squadron flew patrols over France from Northolt, its pre-war station. Powell destroyed an enemy aircraft on May 10, two more on the 11th, probably destroyed Bf 110 on the 18th and he shared a He 111 and probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 19th. He was awarded the DFC (31.5.40). Over Dunkirk on May 31, Powell’s oxygen failed at 19,000 feet and he fell to 5,000 feet before regaining consciousness. On this day he probably destroyed a Bf 109. On June 2 he destroyed a Bf 109 and two more on the 7th. Powell damaged a Bf 109 on July 25. He was posted away to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 7 1940, as an instructor. He formed and took command of 121 Squadron at Kirtonin-Lindsey on May 14 1941, the second of three Eagle squadrons. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on August 18. Promoted to Acting Wing Commander on January 17 1942, Powell was appointed leader of the Hornchurch Wing. On March 28 he probably destroyed a FW 190, on April 24 damaged another, on May 17 destroyed a FW 190 and on June 2 probably destroyed another. On a sweep over the French coast in June, he was wounded in the neck and head, fracturing the base of his skull. He did not return to the Wing and was awarded a Bar to the DFC (24.7.42). Powell later served in Tunisia. Back in the UK, he claimed two V 1 flying bombs destroyed on July 5 1944. On October 10 Powell was injured in an accident, when his car collided with an Army lorry. His passenger was killed. On recovery he commanded 121 Typhoon Wing from April to August 1945. He retired from the RAF on November 6 1963, as a Group Captain. Powell died on January 28 1970.

REGINALD ROBERT CHARLES POUND AC

Pilot British

Powell was born on September 30 1916 and educated at Charterhouse School. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1934, as a Flight Cadet.

PO 31.8.40 FO 24.8.41 FL 30.11.42 FL 4.12.52

910960

FL

FL

Pilot

British

242 Squadron

Born on April 1 1916, Powell-Shedden was at Wellington College from 1929 to 1933. He failed to gain a place at the Royal Military Academy at Woolwich in 1934 but entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1935, as a Flight Cadet.

248 Squadron

Powell, of Finchley, Middlesex, joined the RAFVR about September 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742100). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training, was commissioned and joined 248 Squadron at Sumburgh, possibly in August 1940.

On December 18 1936, he graduated, with a Permanent Commission. Powell-Shedden was posted to 47 Squadron at Khartoum on January 11 1937. On August 9 1938 he changed his name by deed poll from George Shedden ffolliott Powell. In September 1939 he was a Flight Commander with 33 Squadron at Mersa Matruh. Powell-Shedden returned to the UK in early June 1940 and on the 15th he arrived at 6 OTU for a refresher course. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 242 Squadron at Coltishall on June 30, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. On July 23rd he destroyed a Ju 88. On August 21 he shared a Do 17, on September 7 destroyed a Bf 109, on the 9th

On August 24 Powell was attached to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth until September 28 1940. He rejoined 248 on September 28. Powell was killed on July 2 1941, aged 28 and still with 248 Squadron. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 34. PO 24.8.40

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On June 6 1940 he shared in the destruction of a Bf 109 and of a Do 17 and on the 7th he destroyed a Hs 126. After the French collapse, At the time of the French capitulation, Prchal was based in Bordeaux. His Station Commander suggested to him that he took his MB-152 aircraft to escape to England. Because the aircraft lacked the range for the flight to England and he was concerned that the French authorities would not allow him to refuel he took a light communication aircraft instead and flew to Bayonne. Here, on June 22, he boarded the Emma Konigin and two days later arrived in Plymouth. He enlisted in the RAFVR (787982) and he joined 310 Squadron at Duxford on July 12. He destroyed a Do 17 and a Do 215 on August 26 and on this day his Hurricane, P 3157, was severely damaged by a Bf 109 in combat over the Thames Estuary and he made a forced-landing near Upminster, slightly wounded. He was treated in hospital at Ely. On September 15, in Hurricane P 3143, he shared a He 111 and on the 18th he destroyed a Ju 88. On March 6 1941 Prchal was posted, as an instructor, to 55 OTU, Usworth and he moved to 54 OTU, Church Fenton on July 16 for training as a night fighter pilot. On August 12, with his radar operator, Sergeant Rudolf Husar, he was posted to 255 Squadron based at Hibaldstow, to train on the Beaufighter. On September 16 he was posted to 68 Squadron at High Ercall. This was a night-fighter unit with many Czech pilots and radar operators. He was commissioned on December 19. On April 23 1942 he was posted to 116 Squadron based at Heston. He moved to 1425 Flight (later to become 511 Squadron), Transport Command, at Portreath, Cornwall, flying Hudsons, and flew VIPs to and from the Middle East, via Gibraltar and Malta, and ferried aircraft from Canada to the Middle East. The squadron was later based at Lyneham and acquired B24 Liberator aircraft. On July 4 1943 Prchal was pilot of a Liberator going from Gibraltar to London, with General Sikorksi and members of his staff on board, as well as other VIPs. Soon after taking off, the aircraft crashed into the sea and Prchal was the sole survivor. He was taken from the water badly injured and unconscious. After recovering from his injuries he returned to 511 Squadron on September 14. From February 19 to May 9 1944 Prchal was with the RAF Atlantic Transport Group at Dorval, Canada to fly Liberator and DC3/C47 aircraft to North Africa, via the Bahamas and the Azores and sometimes on to Karachi in India (now Pakistan). On May 18 1944 he was posted to 24 Squadron where he remained until the end of the war, usually flying DC3s to Europe and the Far East. After the war Prchal returned to Czechoslovakia with his wife and daughter. He was in the Czech Air Force until January 1946, when he joined Czech Airlines, as a Senior Captain. In February 1948, whilst Prchal was on a business trip, for CSA, to India, the communists took over in Czechoslovakia. He returned to Prague but knew he would come under scrutiny for his previous service with the RAF. After some months of planning, along with Josef Rechka and Jan Kaucky, Prchal and the families escaped in a daring aircraft flight on September 30 1950. They landed at Manston three and a half hours after leaving Prague. Prchal went to the USA in 1951 and became Czech language instructor at the US Army Language School at Monterey, California. He retired in 1978. Prchal died at St Helena, California on December 4 1984. His ashes were taken to England. Some of them were scattered over the Channel and the remainder buried in Brookwood Cemetery.

destroyed a Do 17 and on the 15th destroyed a Do 17 and shared another. Following this engagement, he was shot down by Bf 109s over Rye, baled out and was admitted to Rye Hospital, with a dislocated left shoulder. His Hurricane, P 2884, crashed at Church Field, Udimore. He transferred to RAF Hospital, Rauceby on September 20. On November 22 1940 Powell-Shedden was posted to 258 Squadron, then forming at Leconfield, as a Flight Commander. He took command of 615 Squadron at Valley in April 1941. On July 19 he arrived in Malta, with orders to form a new squadron. At the end of the month the Malta Night Fighter Unit came into being at Ta Kali, with Hurricanes. During the night of August 11/12 Powell-Shedden damaged a Fiat BR 20 and on the 26/27 two more BR 20s. The MNFU was renamed 1435 (Night Fighter) Flight on December 2 1941 and PowellShedden handed over command. He was awarded the DFC (12.12.41). In January 1942 he was promoted to Acting Wing Commander and appointed Wing Commander Ops at Ta Kali and was given control of airfield serviceability. He later went to the Middle East. In January 1944 Powell-Shedden joined 96 Squadron at West Malling, as a supernumerary. He took command of 29 Squadron at Ford in March 1944, left in April and re-assumed command in July, leading the squadron until December 1944. He was awarded the DSO (27.4.45). Powell-Shedden retired from the RAF on March 20 1961, as a Group Captain. He died on November 10 1994. PO 19.12.36 FO 19.6.38 FL 19.6.40 SL 1.9.41 WC 1.7.43 WC 1.7.47 GC 1.1.54

RICHARD MAURICE POWER 39471

FL

Pilot

Australian

236 Squadron

Power, of Melbourne, trained with the RAAF, as a cadet at Point Cook in 1936. He sailed for England in January 1937, was granted an RAF short service commission in February and went for a short course to 11 FTS, Wittering on the 28th. On completion, Powell joined 66 Squadron at Duxford on May 22 1937. On November 16 1939 he went to 236 Squadron, then forming at Stradishall, as ‘B’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Flight Lieutenant. On July 30 1940 Power hit an obstacle on the ground, taking off from Carew Cheriton in bad weather, in Blenheim R 2777. No one on board was injured but the aircraft was a write-off. When the CO of 236 was killed on August 1 1940, Power assumed temporary command until the 4th. In July 1941 he was posted away to 3 (Coastal) OTU, Chivenor, as an instructor. Power went back to operations on August 22 1943, when he joined 248 Squadron, to fly anti-shipping sorties. With his tour completed, Power went to the Air Ministry on March 12 1944, in the Directorate of Accident Prevention. He later moved to the Directorate General of Organisation. Power was released from the RAF in August 1946, as a Wing Commander. He returned to Australia.

PO 20.12.41 FO 20.12.42 FL 20.12.43

STANLEY GEORGE PREATER 581299

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

Observer

British

235 Squadron

Preater joined the RAF about June 1939, as a direct-entry Airman u/t Observer. He completed his training and had joined 235 Squadron at North Coates by March 31 1940.

EDWARD MAXIMILIAN PRCHAL 112323

Sgt

310 Squadron He became a Warrant Officer on October 1 1941. No other service details traced.

Prchal was born on January 1 1911 in Dolni Brezany, N of Prague, Prchal joined the Czech Air Force in October 1930 for his military service. He was trained as a pilot at 41st Air Regiment at Prague-Kbely and was then posted to the 14th Observation Squadron of the 4th Air regiment at Hradoe Kralove. He served until 1936. From 1936 to 1939 he flew as a pilot for the Bata Shoe Co in Czechoslovakia, on international trips.

LEON OSCAR JOSEPH PREVOT 84285

PO

Pilot

Belgian

235 Squadron

Prevot was born in Tours, France of Belgian parents. He entered the Aviation Militaire Belge Flying School in Belgium on May 7 1934. In 1939 he was an instructor at the 3rd Flying School at Deurne, Antwerp. The unit was evacuated to France on May 13 1940 and moved on to Morocco on June 2.

Following the occupation of Czechoslovakia by the Germans, military and civilian airfleets were grounded. On June 22 1939 Prchal left Bata and on June 26 he was in Poland, most probably having crossed the border in the Ostrava to Tesin area. He reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate in Krakow which arranged for his passage to France. Prchal sailed from Gdynia on the Kastelholm which took him to Calais where he arrived on June 30. He was required to join the French Foreign Legion on a five year engagement with the agreement that he would transfer to a French military unit if war was declared. After the declaration of war he was posted to l’Armée de l’Air on October 2 1939. He went to CIC Chartres for re-training to French equipment and was posted to GCI/8 on December 27 1939 on completion of this training.

After the collapse of France, Prevot went to England and was commissioned in the RAFVR on July 18 1940. After a spell at No 1(C) OTU, Silloth, he joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on September 26. Prevot destroyed a He 59 on October 8, off Cherbourg. He flew his last sortie with 235 on October 13 1940. He was posted away very soon afterwards, to instruct at the new Franco-Belgian EFTS at Odiham. Awarded the C de G (Belg) (21.7.41), Prevot joined 123 Squadron at Drem on August

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Only two arrived safely at Gibraltar, Price’s and the CO’s. Initially based at Abu Sueir, 272 moved later to Mersa Matruh, from where its main duty was to strafe enemy airfields. It also covered Tobruk convoys and made occasional operational visits to Malta. In late November 1941 Price was shot down by flak near Agedabia. He made a bellylanding on fire and was then unable to get out when his hatch jammed. His navigator, Sergeant Southern, forced it open and Price got out, badly burned. The two men were captured and Price was taken to an Italian field hospital for treatment. He later went in a hospital ship to Caserta, near Naples, for further, but limited, treatment. After a year at Parma, Price went before a Red Cross Tribunal and was passed for repatriation, returning to England in April 1943. After skin-grafting operations, Price was posted to White Waltham, to assist the ATA. As he was not flying, he asked to be Medically-Boarded out of the RAF. He was discharged in October 1945, as a Warrant Officer.

6 1941 but moved soon afterwards to 64 Squadron at Turnhouse, later becoming ‘A’ Flight Commander. On May 4 1942 Prevot was posted from 64 to command 122 Squadron at Hornchurch. On May 17 he claimed a FW 190 destroyed, on June 2 he probably destroyed a FW 190 and damaged another and on July 30 he claimed another FW 190 but was himself shot down over France. Evading capture, with the help of the French Resistance, he escaped via Spain and was back in England by October 15 1942. Prevot was awarded the DFC (11.11.42). On November 20 1942 Prevot joined 65 Squadron at Drem, to be Communications Officer, but next day he was posted to command 197 Squadron, then being formed at Turnhouse, to fly Typhoons. On June 14 1943, with his tour completed, Prevot went to 57 OTU, Eshott, moving in July to 53 OTU, Kirton-in-Lindsey, as Chief Flying Instructor. He was given command of 350 (Belgian) Squadron at Hawkinge on December 28 1943. In March 1944 Prevot was promoted to Wing Commander and posted to ADGB, as Belgian Liaison Officer. He held three further staff appointments in the UK before taking command of 135 Wing, 2nd TAF in June 1946. In December he transferred to the Belgian Air Force, serving until 1954, when he retired, as a Lieutenant-Colonel. Prevot was one of nine Belgians to survive the war, of the twenty-eight who took part in the Battle of Britain. He died on April 28 1994.

ROBERT BUCKTON PRICE 532196

Sgt

Pilot

British

54, 245, 73 and 222 Squadrons

Price, of Acomb, Yorkshire, joined the RAF in May 1936, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot, completed his training and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940.

PO 18.7.40

APO 3.2.40 PO 16.3.40 FO 16.3.41 FL 16.3.42

After converting to Spitfires, Price joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on September 23 and made his first flight the next day, a sector recco. He moved to 245 Squadron at Aldergrove on the 27th, for further training. Price went to 73 Squadron at Castle Camps on October 14 and then to 222 Squadron at Hornchurch on the 24th. He was moved again, this time to 603 Squadron at Rochford on November 23 1940. The squadron left Rochford for Drem on December 17 1940. Flying Officers G K Gilroy and F D S Scott-Malden and Price landed together at Drem. Price’s Spitfire struck the tail of Gilroy’s aicraft, bounced in the air and then crashed down on to the top of Gilroy’s fuselage. Scott-Malden was able to take evasive action, made an emergency stop, ran to Gilroy’s Spitfire and dragged him out of the cockpit, as flames started in the cockpit legwell. Fortunately the fire did not take hold and a fire tender rapidly extinguished it. Gilroy was seriously injured and did not rejoin the squadron until mid-February 1941. Price was unhurt. Price was killed on November 15 1941, as a Flight Sergeant with 33 Squadron, based at Giarabub, Libya. He was 24. He is remembered on the Alamein Memorial, Column 242.

JAMES PRICE

JOHN SINCLAIR PRIESTLEY

ARTHUR OWEN PRICE 77366

PO

Air Gunner

British

236 Squadron

Price joined the RAFVR in February 1940, with a direct-entry commission as an Air Gunner. He completed his training and was with 236 Squadron at Middle Wallop by June 27 1940. Price was awarded the DFC (15.9.44), as an Acting Squadron Leader with 7 Squadron, operating in Lancasters from Oakington. He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1982.

130054

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

29 Squadron

NZ 39934

PO

Pilot

Price, of Cartref, Glamorgan, was born on July 12 1919.

Priestley volunteered for flying duties at the outbreak of war and entered the Ground Training School, Weraroa on October 26 1939. He was posted to No 1 EFTS, Taieri on November 21 and moved to No 1 FTS, Wigram on January 16 1940. Priestley was awarded his flying badge on March 21 and later passed out as a Sergeant-Pilot. He was commissioned later, with effect from May 4. In late May Priestley sailed for the UK in the SS Mataroa and arrived in the UK on July 10 1940. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting. He was posted to No 1 (Coastal) OTU, Silloth on July 27 and after converting to Blenheims, he joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on August 22. After arrival, he took part in two operational sorties, both convoy escorts. Priestley took off in a Blenheim on a non-operational flight on August 30. He crashed at Barwick Farm, near Bircham Newton after going into a sustained spin and failing to recover. He and his gunner, Sergeant E A Graves, were both killed. Priestley is buried in the Military Cemetery of St Andrew at Great Bircham, Norfolk.

PO 12.4.42 FO 12.10.42 FL 12.4.44 FL 17.5.56

NORMAN ALBERT JOSEPH PRICE Sgt

Pilot

British

235 Squadron

Born in Wellington on August 15 1913, Priestley left Wellington College in 1930 and was then employed as a clerk. He applied for an RNZAF short service commission in March 1939, was accepted but the scheme lapsed and he was not called.

He joined the RAFVR in October 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner (970175). With training completed, he joined 29 Squadron at Wellingore on September 14 1940. He was posted away to 7 (BAT) Flight on February 1 1941. Commissioned in April 1942, Price was awarded the DFM (6.10.42) for service as a Flight Sergeant with 38 Squadron in the Middle East. He was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He rejoined in 1956, in the Secretarial Branch, and retired on July 12 1974, as a Flight Lieutenant. Price died on March 16 1988.

745229

New Zealander

236 Squadron

Price, of Reading, Berkshire, joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot and began his elementary flying at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley. Called to full-time service on September 1, he went to 4 ITW, Bexhill, moved on to 6 EFTS, Sywell, then to 8 FTS, Montrose for No 19 Course, which ran from May 6 to August 12 1940. The course was split and Price was selected for twin-engined aircraft.

PO 4.5.40

CHARLES ARTHUR PRITCHARD 90092

FL

Pilot

Australian

600 Squadron

Born in Manildra, New South Wales, Pritchard went to England as a child and was educated at Highgate School. He served for a time in the London Scottish Regiment.

With the course completed, he was sent to No 1(Coastal)OTU, Silloth, converted to Blenheims and then joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on September 12 1940. 236’s duties included escorting FAA torpedo aircraft attacking Channel shipping, reconnaissances of submarine bases and Channel ports, looking for FW Kondors attacking convoys and escorting convoys in the Atlantic. In April 1941 Price converted to Beaufighters at RAF Chivenor and joined 272 Squadron. In May five aircraft of the squadron departed for the Middle East, via Gibraltar and Malta.

In 1936 Pritchard joined 600 Squadron, AAF. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939. He was detached from 600 at Manston from February 22 to March 3 1940 to RAF Biggin Hill for Operations Room duties, as Ops B. He took part in the daylight attack on Waalhaven airfield on May 10 1940. Six Blenheims of the squadron attacked the airfield near Rotterdam, destroying German transport aircraft on the ground.

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Communist guerillas in Malaya. He also led a detachment to Iwakuni, Japan for operations in the Korean War. Proctor retired on October 15 1957, as a Wing Commander.

By June he was ‘A’ Flight Commander, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. Flying with Sergeant H Jacobs as gunner, Pritchard destroyed a Ju 88 on the night of September 15/16 1940. The enemy aircraft was caught in searchlights and was shot down into the sea off Bexhill. Pritchard took command of 600 Squadron on December 12 1940, as an Acting Squadron Leader. In the early hours of May 6 1941 he destroyed a He 111 over Sherbourne and his own aircraft was damaged by return fire. During a patrol on the night of May 16/17 Pritchard’s AI operator found a Ju 88. When Pritchard had got his Beaufighter in a position to open fire, it was suddenly illuminated by searchlights, temporarily blinding him. With a perfect target, the German gunner opened fire and the Beaufighter went down in flames. Pritchard and his radar operator baled out, he with burns and the operator with a leg wound. Awarded the DFC (24.6.41), Pritchard was reported at the time to be the first Australian night fighter pilot to receive the award. His citation stated that, “This officer has displayed considerable skill as a night fighter pilot. His untiring devotion to duty, combined with great persistence and determination in his attacks against the enemy, have enabled him to destroy at least two and damage a further three of their aircraft at night. His example has been a source of encouragement to his fellow pilots.” Protchard was promoted and posted away on September 3 1941, to be Wing Commander Flying at 51 OTU, Cranfield. He commanded RAF High Ercall in 1943 and was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Wing Commander.

PO 8.7.40 FO 24.11.40 FL 24.11.41 SL 16.3.44 SL 1.9.45 WC 1.1.52

PERCY ROLLO PROSSER 755800

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

235 Squadron

Prosser, of Quinton, Birmingham, joined the RAFVR about August 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and was with 235 Squadron at Manston in early 1940 and served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. On December 16 1940, Prosser was a member of the crew of Blenheim Z 5754, on a minesweeper-escort operation. He, Pilot Officer J Coggins, pilot, and Pilot Officer N A Sadler, observer, were all lost when the aircraft crashed into the sea, cause unknown. Prosser is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 18.

DOUGLAS HARRY PROUDMAN 635790

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

248 Squadron

Proudman, of Devizes, joined the RAF in February 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG and after completing his training, he joined 248 Squadron in mid-July 1940.

PO (AAF) 19.5.36 FO (AAF) 18.11.37 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

He died on April 27 1941, from injuries sustained in the crash of a Beaufort, and is buried in Devizes Cemetery.

JACK PROCTOR 741471

Sgt Pilot

British

HARRY ARTHUR ROBIN PROWSE

602 Squadron

42358 Proctor, of Coventry, joined the RAFVR in April 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and joined 602 Squadron at Drem on June 20 1940.

Pilot

British

British

266 and 603 Squadrons

On January 6 1940 Prowse was posted to 9 B&GS, Penrhos, as a staff pilot. He went to 4 Ferry Pilot Pool on May 16.On June 6 he arrived at 10 MU, to collect Hurricane P 2644. He left with a Middle East-bound flight from Tangmere on the 7th, on the first stage of the journey. On June 8, landing at Marseille/Marignane he ran into a filled-in bomb crater. The port undercarriage leg was snapped off, standing the Hurricane on its nose. The aircraft was abandoned there and Prowse returned to England. In mid-June Prowse was on another delivery flight and his Hurricane was shot down near Lille by flak. He made a forced-landing in a field and returned to England from Cherbourg, just before France fell. On September 3 1940 Prowse went to 7 OTU, Hawarden and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on the 16th, moving to 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on October 20. He shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 on November 7, with seven other pilots of 603, and on the 11th Prowse probably destroyed a Bf 109. Prowse damaged Bf 109s on June 14 and 26 1941, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 30th and probably destroyed another on July 3. He destroyed a Bf 109 over St Omer on July 4 1941 and was then himself shot down by flak over France. He crash-landed in a field and set his Spitfire alight with his Verey pistol before being captured. Prowse was at some time in Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 1626). He was freed on May 2 1945 and returned to England on the 8th. After a long leave, he did a flying refresher course at 5 (P) AFU at Atcham on Harvards, from October 16 1945 to January 23 1946. Prowse was released from the RAF but decided to return to flying duties for a year. He went to 61 OTU, Keevil on June 18 for a refresher course on Spitfires and from July 18 1946 until released again on June 6 1947 he instructed at Keevil. In September 1947 Prowse and his wife sailed for Brazil, where he managed a 17,000 acre farm until his retirement in December 1983. In April 2008 he was still living in Brazil.

JOHN ERNEST PROCTOR PO

Pilot

Prowse joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 30 1939 at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley. He moved to 13 FTS, Drem on August 11 and finished his training at 15 FTS, Lossiemouth.

He claimed a Ju 88 destroyed on August 31, a Bf 109 destroyed on September 6, a Bf 110 destroyed on the 7th, a Do 17 probably destroyed on the 9th and a Bf 110 destroyed and another damaged on the 11th. His final sortie with 602 was made on September 18, a patrol. Proctor was killed in a flying accident at 5 FTS, Sealand on April 18 1941, where, presumably, he was an instructor. Proctor was 24. He is buried in St Michael’s churchyard, Stoke, Coventry.

44131

PO

32 Squadron

Proctor was born on July 15 1913. He joined the RAF in September 1929, as an Aircraft Apprentice (563641) and passed out in August 1932. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. He was on 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill by August 31 1939. He made a broadcast from the BBC in London on December 29, with Sergeant J W White, entitled ‘Christmas Day at a Fighter Squadron’. Proctor joined 501 Squadron at Tangmere on May 5 1940 and went with it to France on the 10th He claimed a Bf 110 and a Do 17 destroyed on the 12th, two He 111s destroyed on the 14th, a Bf 110 on the 15th, a Bf 110 on June 5 and a Do 17 damaged on the 6th. The squadron was withdrawn from France on June 19 and re-assembled at Croydon on the 21st. Proctor was commissioned from Sergeant in July and he rejoined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on the 8th. He probably destroyed a Bf 110 and shared a Bf 109 on July 20, claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed on August 12 and one destroyed on the 25th. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on August 24, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. Proctor was awarded the DFC (18.3.41), being then credited with at least eleven enemy aircraft destroyed, seven of them in France. On May 18 1942 Proctor took command of 33 Squadron in the Western Desert and three days later he made a forced-landing after being hit by flak. He commanded 352 Squadron from its formation at Benina on April 22 1944 until September 1944. Proctor stayed on in the RAF. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (17.4.51) for services with 205 Squadron, flying Sunderlands from Seletar, Singapore in operations against

APO 22.7.39 PO 6.1.40 FO 6.1.41 FL 1.6.42

RUDOLF PTACEK 787434

Sgt Pilot

Czechoslovakian

43 Squadron

Ptacek was born on April 19 1918 at Kostalec nad Orlici, Czechoslovakia. He joined the Military Aviation Academy, at Prostejov, as a cadet on October 1 1936 and qualified as a pilot on May 5 1938. He was selected for fighter pilot training and assigned to Otrokovice. On June 15 1938 he was posted to 38th Fighter Squadron of 3rd Air Regiment at Piestani, Slovakia to fly Avia B-534 aircraft. In January 1939 he was posted to 41st Fighter Squadron at Prague-Kbely. After the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939, Ptacek was demobilised on the 17th. With two other Czech airmen he travelled to Ostrava and, on June 18, hid on a freight train going to Poland. He reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate, in Krakow, on

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Nanterre, near Paris to await transfer to the training base at Sidi-bel-Abbes, Algeria, but before he could travel war was declared and he joined l’Armée de l’Air on September 11 1939. He went to CIC Chartres to retrain on French aircraft. He was posted to a Curtis H55 Hawk squadron, Groupe de Chasse II/4, based at Xaffevillers near Nancy. Puda shared in the destruction of a He III on May 20 1940, shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on the 28th and had a share in destroying a Hs 126 on June 11. As the Germans advanced, the squadron retreated, eventually arriving at Perpignan on June 17. On June 20 it flew to Maison Blanche, Algeria. There it learned that France had capitulated. The CO then told Puda that he was discharged from service. He made his way to Casablanca, where he met up with other Czechs. A senior officer arranged for some 200 men to go by fishing vessel to Gibraltar. On arrival they were not allowed ashore but were ferried to a coal carrier, which then joined a convoy bound for Liverpool. Puda went to the Czechoslovak Airmen’s Depot, Cosford and enlisted in the RAFVR (787623) on August 5. On August 17 he joined 310 Squadron at Duxford. He shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on September 15 and a Ju 88 on September 18. Puda was posted to 605 Squadron at Croydon on October 18 but he rejoined 310 on October 28. On November 5 Puda was flying Hurricane V 6619. After being attacked by Bf 109s over the Thames Estuary and having his oxygen system damaged he became semiconscious and awoke to find his aircraft on fire. He immediately baled out landing near Lynsted, Kent. Puda was posted to CFS, Upavon on January 19 1941, for an instructor’s course, and on March 21 he went on to the instructing staff at 9 FTS, Hullavington. On March 21 he went to 9 Signals School (SFTS) at Little Rissington. Commissioned in June, he became a staff pilot at No 1 SFTS, Cranwell on July 21 but returned to instructing on August 8 1942, at 3 EFTS, Shillingford. On October 10 1943 Puda joined 24 Squadron, Ferry Command, at Hendon. On August 19 1944 he moved to the Communications Flight there. Before he left on July 17 1945, he had flown many VIPs. Puda rejoined the Czech Air Force on July 18 and returned to Czechoslovakia on August 17. On February 1 1946 he went back to Czech Air Lines. Like many returned Czechs, he left his country again in April 1948 because of Communist pressure. On May 4 1948 he was able to attend an airline pilots’ conference in London and did not return to Czechoslovakia. On October 1 Puda rejoined the RAF and went on a course at 241 OCU, Dishforth, to convert to Yorks. He re-trained to jet aircraft and took part in an operation to fly Sabre IV fighters from Canada to England. Later he flew de Havilland Vampire jets on delivery to operational units in the Far East He retired from the RAF on October 1 1954, as a Flight Lieutenant. Puda was awarded the Queen’s Commendation for Service in the Air (1.1.53). He was awarded the C de G (Fr), for services in France. Following the “Velvet Revolution” in 1989 he was promoted to Colonel, in retirement, in the Czech Air Force and then to Major General, on May 8 2000. Puda died on March 17 2002 at Henley on Thames and he is buried in Brookwood Cemetery.

June 27 and was assigned to a transit camp at Maly Bronowice. On July 25 he went, by train, to Gdynia and, on the following day, boarded the Kastelholm, bound for Calais, France where he arrived on July 31. Ptacek was required to join the French Foreign Legion with the agreement that he would transfer to a French military unit if war was declared. He went to the Legion barracks at Nanterre, near Paris to await transfer to the training base at Sid-bel-Abbes, Algeria. However war was declared before he could travel and he was transferred to l’Armee de l’Air. On October 6 1939 he went to CIC Chartres for retraining to MS406c aircraft. On May 16 1940 he was sent to Patrouille DAT (Groupe de Chasse de Defense) at Chartres. On June 3 he probably destroyed a He 111 but his aircraft was hit by fire from a Do 17 some 30 times. He was wounded in the arm and hand and lost a finger but landed at Chartres and was taken to hospital. With the German Blitzkreig approaching Chartres, Ptacek escaped from hospital to avoid capture and managed to reach the port of St Jean de Luz on June 22. Two days later he boarded the Ettrick bound for Plymouth, where he arrived on June 26. Initially he went to the RAF Hospital at Devonport for recuperation from his injuries. On July 14 he was discharged from hospital and transferred to the Czechoslovak Transit Camp at Cholmondeley. He enlisted in the RAFVR at the RAF Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford on July 25. On September 21 he went to 6 OTU at Sutton Bridge to convert to Hurricanes and, on October 4, was posted to 43 Squadron at Ushworth. On November 23 he was posted to 615 Squadron at Northolt. On February 10 1941 he made a forced landing in Hurricane Mk1 P3811, near Dungeness, when his engine cut out and, on April 18, he made a belly-landing in Hurricane Mk1 Z2669, at Kenley. On June 11 Ptacek went to 313 Squadron at Catterick to fly Spitfires. Whilst re-training to the Spitfire he made another belly-landing on June 19 in Spitfire X 4163. On July 5 he was posted to 222 Squadron at Manston. On August 12 he shot down a Bf 109f near St Omer during an offensive sweep over northern France. A week later, on August 19, whilst escorting Blenheim bombers on a raid on Hazebrouck, he was shot down near St Omer in his Spitfire MkIIb, P8244, Wigan and District, during a dogfight in which he shot down a Bf 109. He was then attacked by another BF 109 and his engine stopped and caught fire. He forced landed at Roubrouck, near St Omer. He was uninjured and destroyed his IFF set and tried to set the aircraft on fire. Local people helped him escape from the scene and with the aid of the French Resistance he was passed down the “Pat O’Leary” escape line through France and over the Pyrenees to Spain. He was interned in a camp at Miranda del Ebro but reached Gibraltar on October 31. On January 4 1942 he boarded a ship bound for Gourock, Scotland. On his return he volunteered for operational duties and was posted to 602 Squadron on January 8. Ptacek was posted to 61 OTU at Heston for a refresher course. He returned to 602 Squadron on February 3. Ptacek was killed on March 28 1942 whilst on a fighter sweep near Calais in Spitfire MkVb, BM 148. The patrol was attacked by FW190s from JG26 and Ptacek’s Spitfire was shot down into the English Channel off Cap Gris Nez. His body was never recovered. Ptacek is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 73.

PO 25.6.41 FO 25.12.42 FL 11.4.44 FL 6.4.48

GEOFFREY BRUCE PUDNEY Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

Pilot

British

64 Squadron

RAIMUND PUDA 69458

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

310 and 605 Sqdns

Pudney entered the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on July 1 1939, rated as a Midshipman (A). He did his elementary flying training at 14 EFTS, Elmdon and then went on to No 1 FTS, Leuchars for No 8 Course, which ran from January 15 to June 22 1940.

Puda was born on August 18 1912 at Brnik. Following his elementary education he trained to be an aircraft mechanic and was employed at the Letov aircraft factory at Prague-Letnany. This inspired him to become a pilot He joined the Military Aviation Academy, at Prostejov, as a cadet on October 1 1930 for basic flying training. On August 1 1932 he went to 1st Air Regiment at Prague-Kbely and was assigned to 3rd Aerial Observation Squadron. On May 31 1934 he transferred to 2nd Aerial Observation Squadron. In the summer of 1935 he went for Fighter Pilot training and returned to Prostejov. On July 31 he was assigned to 43rd Fighter Squadron of 1st Air Regiment at Prague-Kbely On September 30 1937 he was posted to the Regiment’s 34th Fighter Squadron to fly Avia Ba-33s. Later the squadron re-equipped with Avia B-534s. Puda was selected to join the Czechoslovak Air Force Aerobatic Team at the 1937 International Air Display at Zurich, Switzerland. The team won the aerobatic event and came second to the German team in the overall competition. On September 18 1939 he left the Air Force to join CSA, the state airline, as a pilot. When the Germans invaded Czechoslovakia the Air Force and civilian airlines were grounded and disbanded.Puda decided to escape to Poland and join a military unit. With three fellow Czechoslovak airmen he boarded a train to Ostrava and, on the night of July 18 1939, hid on a coal train which was leaving for Poland. He reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate, in Krakow, and then travelled by train to Gdynia. Here the party boarded the Gorsky and sailed for France. Puda was required to join the French Foreign Legion with the agreement that he would transfer to a French military unit if war was declared. He went to the Legion barracks at

He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 23 1940. He was officially attached to the RAF on the 29th and after converting to Spitfires, he was attached to 64 Squadron at Kenley on July 6. Pudney rejoined the FAA on August 12 1940, when he was posted to 806 Squadron. He was killed on August 26 1941, serving with HMS Grebe, a shore-base at the pre-war Alexandria Airport in Egypt, used for aircraft flown off aircraft carriers and using the naval dockyard there. Pudney’s name is on the Fleet Air Arm Memorial at Lee-on-Solent. Midshipman 1.7.39 Sub-Lt 14.3.40

JOHN STEWART PUGH 120329

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

25 Squadron

Pugh joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (754596). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 25 Squadron at Martlesham Heath in early July 1940. Early on September 5, flying as gunner with Pilot Officer M J Herrick, Pugh shot down two He 111s at night, the second one falling in pieces after a burst fired at less than thirty

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WILLIAM GEORGE VERNON PUXLEY

yards. They destroyed another He 111 on the night of the 13/14th. Commissioned in March 1942, Pugh was awarded the DFC (21.9.45), as a Flight Lieutenant with 149 Squadron, operating in Lancasters from Methwold. He stayed on in the RAF, in the Physical Fitness Branch. His name does not appear in the Air Force list after July 1954.

117933

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

236 Squadron

Puxley joined the RAFVR about April 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (746970). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on September 20 1940.

PO 13.3.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 13.3.44 FL (RAFRO) 13.9.46 Puxley’s flight of 236 Squadron was posted to RAF Aldergrove on November 19 1940, where it combined with a flight from 235 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron on the 21st. Commissioned in March 1942, Puxley was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He rejoined the RAFVR in 1950. Puxley died in 1984.

THOMAS PATRICK PUGH 40137

FO

Pilot

British

263 Squadron

Pugh, of Farnborough, Hampshire, was born in 1917 at Aldershot and educated at Salesian College, Farnborough. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 12 1937, as a pupil pilot.

PO 7.3.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 7.3.44 FO (RAFVR) 17.10.50

JOHN WALTER PYE 66503

He was posted to 11 FTS, Wittering on September 18 and after completing his training, he joined 103 Squadron at Abingdon, a light bomber unit with Battles. Pugh went with the squadron to France on September 2 1939. He returned to England in June 1940, to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge. He was posted from there on July 1 1940 to join 263 Squadron at Grangemouth. Pugh was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on August 30 and he was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on September 16. He commanded the squadron from August 1941 until February 1942 and was awarded the DFC (21.10.41), being then credited with two Ju 88s and a Bf 109 destroyed on the ground. Pugh formed and then commanded 182 Squadron at Martlesham Heath from September 1 1942. He was killed on August 2 1943, as an Acting Wing Commander with 182. He was 26 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 64.

Pilot

Canadian

New Zealander

25 Squadron

Pye joined the RAFVR on September 11 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner (902809). He did his initial training at North Coates, followed by No 4 Air Gunner Course at 5 B&GS, Jurby, Isle of Man, which ran from January 1 to March 1 1940. He qualified on March 2 and was posted from HQ North Coates on March 27 to 236 Squadron, also at North Coates, as an AC Air Gunner. In May Pye joined 25 Squadron at North Weald and was promoted to Sergeant on the 27th. After the arrival of airborne radar, Pye remustered as a Radio Observer and retrained with the squadron. Commissioned in May 1941, Pye was posted to 1453 Flight on July 17, operating in Turbinlite Havocs from Wittering. He moved to 1451 Flight at Hunsdon on February 24 1942 and then to 1452 Flight at West Malling on May 3. In September 1942 Pye finished flying and was posted to No 1 Air Armament School, Manby, for a Specialist Armament Officers’ course, after which he went to RAF Gravesend as Station Armament Officer. On January 31 1944 he went as Wing Armament Officer to 146 Wing at Tangmere, then forming with four squadrons of Typhoons. He went to the Continent with the Wing on July 19. Pye was posted away in May 1945, for repatriation to New Zealand. He arrived there on October 22 and went on to the Reserve on January 28 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in February 2003.

GEORGE RUPERT PUSHMAN PO

Air Gunner

Pye was born at Aldbourne, Wiltshire, England on November 15 1917. He was taken to New Zealand at the age of six. He sailed from New Zealand with his parents on March 9 1939, for a holiday in England. They planned to return on September 29 but war came and they were unable to return and spent the war years in Salisbury.

APO 5.9.37 PO 12.7.38 FO 12.2.40 FL 12.2.41 SL 1.3.42

42260

Sgt

23 Squadron

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 1 1939, as a pupil pilot. Pushman’s pre-war training and service details are not known. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 22 1940 and after converting to Blenheims, he joined 23 Squadron at Collyweston on July 7. He served with it during the Battle of Britain and was not posted away until August 4 1941. Pushman was awarded the DFC (17.10.44), as an Acting Squadron Leader with 88 Squadron, then operating in Bostons from Blackbushe. The citation mentioned his laying of smoke screens on D Day and after. Pushman transferred to the RCAF in March 1945 and returned to Canada. He died on April 11 2001.

PO 16.5.41 FO 16.5.42 FL 16.5.43

LAURENCE LEE PYMAN 72586

FO

Pilot

British

65 Squadron

Pyman was born on March 13 1917, the son of an Australian mother and an English father, who was killed in action in France on May 3 1917, as a Lieutenant in the 15th Battalion of the Middlesex Regiment.

APO 24.6.39 PO 16.6.40 FO 16.6.41 FL 16.6.42

He went to the Electrical and Wireless School at Cranwell on August 30 1937, as a staff pilot on the Signals Squadron. Putt arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 2 1940, for a refresher course, after which he was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 24th, for instructor duties. He joined 501 Squadron at Gravesend on August 6 1940, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. He was shot down on the 15th during an engagement with Ju 87s over Hawkinge and baled out, unhurt, from Hurricane P 3040. Putt was posted to 12 OTU, Benson on September 19 1940. He was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Wing Commander. He died in 1977.

Pyman’s mother married again after the War and set up home in England, firstly at Nottingham, moving later to Ash, near Aldershot and subsequently to Deddington, Buckinghamshire. Pyman was educated at West Downs Preparatory School in Winchester and Stowe School. He went on to Jesus College, Cambridge, where he read Engineering. He was a member of the University Air Squadron and was commissioned in the RAFVR in January 1939. He was then working at British Thomson Houston at Rugby. Called up in September, Pyman completed his training at RAF College FTS, Cranwell on No 8 Course, which ran from March 6 to June 22 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 22. After converting to Spitfires, he was posted to 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on July 20. He destroyed a Bf 109 on August 14 and probably damaged another. His own aircraft was severely damaged in the combat over the Channel and he made a forced-landing at Manston. Pyman failed to return from an action over Deal on August 16 1940. His Spitfire, K 9915, crashed into the sea and he was killed. His body was recovered from the Channel. Pyman and another pilot, Sub-Lieutenant H la F Greenshields of 266 Squadron, were accorded a military funeral by the Luftwaffe, with a Guard of Honour at the adjoining gravesides. Pyman was 23. He is buried in Calais Southern Cemetery, France.

APO 20.1.36 PO 25.11.36 FO 25.6.38 FL 25.6.40 SL 1.9.41 WC 1.1.44

PO (RAFVR) 31.1.39 PO 18.9.39 FO 31.7.40

ALAN ROBERT PUTT 37519

FL

Pilot

British

501 Squadron

Putt joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on November 25 1935, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on February 1 1936 and with training completed, he joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 10.

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COLIN CAMPBELL PYNE 39972

Sgt

Air Gunner

New Zealander

to Sergeant on July 5 and he joined 219 Squadron at Catterick the next day. Pyne qualified as a radar operator on August 5 and flew his first night operational sortie on the 7th. In February 1941 the squadron became fully operational with Beaufighters. On the 17th Pyne assisted in the destruction of a Do 17 and on June 1 an unidentified enemy bomber. He qualified as a Radio Observer on July 6 1941. In early September Pyne was posted to 51 OTU, for an instructor’s course and then began instructing pupils there. He returned to 219 Squadron in early November and resumed operations. Pyne joined the Telecommunications Flying Unit at Hurn in early March 1942, carrying out flying trials on new radar developments. Promoted to Warrant Officer on April 1 1942, he was posted to 157 Squadron at Castle Camps at the end of the month, operating in Mosquitos at night. He assisted in intercepting and damaging a Do 217 on July 30. Pyne was involved in an accident on September 7 1942. He was knocked from his bicycle and suffered spine and head injuries. He was unconscious for three days and in bed for nearly three months. Pyne returned to the squadron in December for a Medical Board. He was repatriated to New Zealand in January 1943, graded unfit for aircrew duties in February and was released from the RNZAF on July 27 1943. Pyne died on February 19 1975, after many years of ill-health.

219 Squadron

Pyne was born in Wellington on March 12 1921 and after leaving Wellington Boys’ College, he was employed as a clerk. He volunteered for aircrew duties at the outbreak of war and reported to the Ground Training School, Weraroa on October 26 1939. Posted to No 1 Air Gunners’ School, Ohakea on November 20, Pyne qualified on December 18 and then carried out further navigation training in January 1940. He sailed for the UK on March 23 in the SS Akaroa. Pyne arrived in the UK on May 9 and went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting. He was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 29 and trained in Defiants and Blenheims. He was awarded his air gunner’s badge and promoted

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Q BASIL HERBERT QUELCH 115130

Sgt

Pilot

British

On the 14th he shared in the destruction of a Bf 109, on the 16th he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 18th he shared in the destruction of two He 111s. At the request of the company, Quill returned to Vickers-Armstrong on August 24, to begin development of the Spitfire Mk III. Quill had said that operational experience would help in his job and when he returned to Vickers he submitted a long report, detailing suggested improvements, particularly cannon armament. He became Chief Test Pilot of Vickers Armstrong (Supermarine). In 1943 he spent five months with the Fleet Air Arm developing the Seafire. He held the rank of Lieutenant Commander, RNVR. Quill received training in deck landing at RNAS Easthaven, Angus and was then appointed to HMS Ravager to practise landings. He carried out Seafire trials on HMS Pretoria Castle and served as a supernumerary with 886 and 879 Squadrons, embarked in HMS Attacker. He also flew Wildcats, Hellcats and Corsairs from carriers and wrote a report for the Admiralty on the suitability of the Corsair for use from small escort carriers. He retained the rank of Commander. Quill continued test-flying throughout the war, particularly with the many marks of Spitfire. After sixteen years of flying fighter aircraft, he became very tired and in 1947 took a period of enforced leave, having logged more than 5000 hours on 90 types. Quill flew Spitfire AB 910 at air shows and RAF Open Days until 1965, nearly thirty years after his first test flight on the prototype. His work with Vickers was concerned solely with military aircraft and as Head of the Military Aircraft Office at Weybridge, he was involved with the development of the TSR 2, Jaguar and Tornado. Quill retired in December 1978. His work at Vickers from 1936 through to the end of the war contributed largely to making the Spitfire superior to the Bf 109 and the FW 190, helping the RAF to gain and then maintain air superiority over Britain and Europe. His efforts were recognised when he was made an OBE (4.1.43). Quill died on February 20 1996 at his home at Andreas, Isle of Man. His name appears on a memorial plaque unveiled at Lancing College in 2014.

235 Squadron

Quelch was born at Oxford on April 8 1919. After leaving school in 1934 he became a junior clerk with a brewery company. In July 1938 he joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741801) and did his weekend training on Magisters. Called to full-time service on September 1 1939, Quelch completed training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 6 1940. After converting to Blenheims, he was posted to 235 Squadron at Detling on the 26th. He flew with the squadron on operations covering the evacuation of Dunkirk and throughout the Battle of Britain, based at Thorney Island. On February 20 1941 Quelch was posted to 2 (Coastal) OTU, as an instructor on Blenheims and Beaufighters. Commissioned in December 1941, he left the unit in August 9 1943 and on October 20 rejoined 235 Squadron at Portreath, for a second tour of operations. Quelch flew on sorties covering the Normandy landings and strikes against shipping off Norway. He joined a Coastal Command PR Unit on February 12 1945, firstly in England and later in Germany. He assisted in making a film off Norway called The Shipbusters. Quelch was released from the RAF on January 8 1946 and returned to the brewery company, holding executive positions prior to retiring as Marketing Director in 1979. In May 1947 Quelch rejoined the RAFVR. He died in 1994. PO 30.12.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 30.12.43 FO (RAFVR) 27.5.47

PO 9.10.31 FO 9.4.33 FO (RAFO) 31.12.35

JEFFREY KINDERSLEY QUILL 32110

FO

Pilot

British

JAMES QUINN

65 Squadron

759133 Quill was born on February 1 1913 at Littlehampton, Sussex. His father, a civil engineer, was Irish and his mother English. Jeffrey Quill was educated at Lancing College. He joined the RAF on a short service commission in October 1931. He was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham on the 24th and with, training completed, he joined 17 Squadron at Upavon on September 18 1932.

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

236 Squadron

Quinn joined the RAFVR in August 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. He was called up on September 1, completed his training and joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on October 10 1940. He flew four operational sorties in the period up to the end of October, the first on the 14th and the fourth on the 29th. Quinn was posted with his flight to RAF Aldergrove on November 19 1940, where it combined with a flight from 235 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron on the 21st. There is no further mention of Quinn in the 272 Squadron ORB after May 28 1941.

He went to the Station Flight at Duxford on December 11 1933 and took command in November 1934. In November 1935 Quill was offered the post of assistant to the chief test pilot at Vickers (Aviation). He left the RAF and went on to Class ‘C’ of the RAFO. Quill was initially involved in testing the Wellesley and from March 1936 the Spitfire. He became Chief Test Pilot in 1936. He was awarded the AFC (23.6.36). Quill was transferred to Supermarine Works, Vickers-Armstrong (Aircraft) Ltd in November 1938. After the outbreak of war, Quill continued test flying but in 1940 he was determined to do some operational flying and on August 6 he managed to go on attachment to 65 Squadron at Hornchurch.

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R ALEXANDER COULTATE RABAGLIATI

JOHN HENRY MICHAEL RABONE

37209

90226

FL

Pilot

British

46 Squadron Rabagliati was born in Durban, South Africa in 1914 and educated at Westerleigh School, St Leonards-on-Sea and Charterhouse. After completing an aircraft engineering course, he joined the RAF on a short service commission in April 1935. He was posted to 2 FTS, Digby on May 7 and with training completed, he joined No 1 Squadron at Tangmere on March 4 1936.

FL

Pilot

British

604 Squadron

Rabone was educated at Repton and then read Law at Oxford. He joined 604 Squadron, AAF in early 1938 and was commissioned in March. Called to full-time service on August 24 1939, he arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on September 5, for Hurricane training. He moved to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on the 15th and after converting to Blenheims, he rejoined 604 at North Weald on November 15 1939. Rabone was detached from 604 to the Blenheim Conversion Flight at Hendon from November 21 1939 to January 17 1940. He joined 600 Squadron at Manston on March 17 1940 and then rejoined 604, then at Northolt, on April 1. Rabone shared in damaging a He 111 over Dunkirk on May 22. He was with 604 Squadron until September 24 1940, when he went to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course. He served in Flying Training Command until released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 2000.

Rabagliati was posted to 27 Squadron in India on December 15 1936. He returned to the UK early in 1939 and joined ‘G’ Flight of No 1 AACU at Usworth, as CO. The Unit moved to RAF Cleave on May 19 1939. He went from No 1 AACU on May 28 1940 to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 46 Squadron at Digby on June 17, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. On August 18 Rabagliati claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and probably another and on September 2 he made a forced-landing at Borden, near Sittingbourne, in Hurricane P3597, following combat with Bf 109s over the Thames Estuary. The next day, the 3rd, Rabagliati attacked three Blenheims of 25 Squadron in error, over their base at North Weald. One was shot down, killing the pilot, Pilot Officer D W Hogg, another made a forced-landing and the third returned to base, damaged. Rabagliati destroyed a Bf 109 on the 5th, damaged a Do 17 on the 7th, destroyed another Bf 109 on the 14th, damaged a Do 17 on the 18th, destroyed a Bf 109 and a Ju 88 on the 27th and destroyed Bf 109s on October 29 and November 8. Rabagliati was awarded the DFC (22.10.40). In December 1940 Rabagliati took command of 46 Squadron. On May 22 1941 the squadron pilots and aircraft sailed in HMS Argus for Gibraltar, where they transferred to the Ark Royal and then sailed into the Mediterranean. They flew off to Hal Far, Malta on June 6. On the 11th Rabagliati shared in the destruction of a SM 79, on the 12th destroyed a CR 42, on the 22nd damaged a Mc 200, damaged a SM 79 on the 25th and destroyed a Mc 200 and damaged another SM 79 on the 27th. The ground personnel of 46 Squadron had gone on to Egypt and remained there. On June 28 1941 the pilots in Malta formed the nucleus of a new squadron, 126, with Rabagliati as CO. On July 9 the squadron made an attack on the flying boat base at Syracuse and at least ten aircraft were damaged on the water. He was promoted on August 8, appointed Wing Commander Flying at Ta Kali. Rabagliati destroyed a Z 506B on August 10, damaged another on the water at Syracuse on the 16th, damaged another on the water at Augusta on the 20th and destroyed Mc 200s on the 26th and September 4. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (31.10.41). On November 12 Rabagliati destroyed a Ju 87 in the air and a CR 42 on the ground, on December 21 he destroyed a Mc 202, on January 17 1942 and February 11 he damaged Ju 88s, on the 15th he claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and on March 9 he probably destroyed another. Rabagliati left by air for Egypt on March 15 1942, flew to Cape Town and took a ship there for the UK. After a spell at HQ Fighter Command, as Wing Commander Tactics, he went to RAF Staff College. In October 1942 Rabagliati was appointed Station Commander at Fairwood Common. In early May 1943 he became Wing Leader at Coltishall. Flying from Ludham, Norfolk on July 6 1943, Rabagliati was leading 195 Squadron on a shipping strike, when he was shot down into the sea, possibly by flak, and killed. Rabagliati is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 118.

PO (AAF) 7.3.38 FO 7.9.39 FL 7.9.40

PAUL WATTLING RABONE 36179

FO

Pilot

New

Zealander

145 Sqdn, 422 Flt

Rabone was born in Salisbury, England on March 2 1918 and he was taken to New Zealand as a child. From September 1935 until June 1936 he served in the 7th Field Battery, Territorial Army. In April 1938 Rabone was accepted for the Civil Reserve of Pilots and carried out his flying training at Middle Districts and Auckland Aero Clubs, obtaining his ‘A’ Licence on May 18. Having applied for a short service commission earlier in the year, Rabone was now accepted and he reported to No 1 FTS, Wigram on July 4 1938, as an Acting Pilot Officer. He was awarded his flying badge on October 13 and completed the course two months later. Rabone sailed for the UK on February 1 1939 and on arrival at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, he transferred into the RAF. On April 17 Rabone joined 88 Squadron at Boscombe Down. It went to France on September 2 1939, equipped with Fairey Battles. In May 1940, returning from a raid on the Maastricht bridges, Rabone’s aircraft was severely damaged by flak and he and his crew baled out, landing behind enemy lines. They acquired civilian clothes, joined a refugee column and after five days reached Dieppe. From there, they flew back to England and rejoined the squadron in France three days later. Rabone was shot down by a Bf 109 on June 12, during an attack on a Seine bridge. He and his crew again baled out. In their absence the squadron was withdrawn to Driffield, Yorkshire on the 15th. Rabone and his crew rejoined 88 Squadron on June 26, via 21 Aircraft Depot, Nantes and 19 OTU, Kinloss. On July 11 Rabone was admitted to Stranmillis Military Hospital, cause unknown, and he rejoined the squadron on the 22nd. In August 1940 Rabone volunteered for Fighter Command and on the 19th he joined 145 Squadron at Drem. He shot down a Bf 109 on October 12, which went down into the sea off Dungeness. On the 28th Rabone joined 422 Flight and on November 6 he destroyed a Bf 109.

APO 16.4.35 PO 16.4.36 FO 16.1.38 FL 16.1.40 SL 1.3.41 WC 1.6.42

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The Flight was renumbered 96 Squadron on December 18 and assigned to the night defence of Liverpool, Manchester and Birmingham, based at Cranage. Rabone destroyed an enemy bomber at night on December 22, which went into the sea off Blackpool. In March 1941 the squadron began to receive Defiants and it was from one of these that Rabone and his gunner, Flying Officer Ritchie, baled out over the Peak District on April 13. The aircraft crashed at Rowlee Pasture. Rabone was posted to 85 Squadron at Hunsdon on May 2 1941. He left on July 7 to take command of 1451 Flight, also at Hunsdon, a Turbinlite Havoc unit. He was rested from operations on November 2 and posted to Kenley for Controller training, attached to 485 Squadron. In mid-December Rabone was given command of 1528 Beam Approach Training Flight at Drem. He joined 256 Squadron at Squires Gate on May 12 1942, went on a seven week attachment to 29 Squadron at West Malling and was then posted to 488 Squadron at Church Fenton, as a Flight Commander. On April 24 1943 Rabone went to 51 OTU, then on to 60 OTU. He flew a Mosquito from Lyneham in early June and joined 23 Squadron at Luqa, Malta. He was made a Flight Commander in July. He borrowed a Spitfire on August 15, to fly spare parts from Malta to a squadron detachment at Palermo. On the way back, he met a Ju 88 fifteen miles W of Trapani and, after a ten mile chase, he shot it down into the sea. The squadron moved to Sigonella, Sicily in early September and on the 8th Rabone led an intruder raid on Grosseto airfield. During the operation, he shot down a Ju 88, a He 111 and damaged a second He 111. In mid-November 1943 Rabone returned to the UK and was posted to 60 OTU, as an instructor. He was awarded the DFC (25.1.44). On March 16 1944 Rabone transferred to the RNZAF (Officer Number NZ 2171) and was posted to 515 Squadron, operating in Mosquitos from Little Snoring. On June 21 he destroyed a Bf 110 in daylight and during the night of June 30/July 1 a He 111 and a Ju W34. Rabone rejoined 23 Squadron in mid-July, also based at Little Snoring. He took off to attack a target in North-West Germany on July 24 1944 and failed to return. His body was washed ashore at Heligoland three months later and buried there. After the war Rabone’s remains were re-interred at Hotten British Military Cemetery, Belgium.

GUSTAW RADWANSKI

APO 4.7.38 PO 15.3.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

WILLIAM PEARCE HAUGHTON RAFTER

76708

Pilot

Polish

Polish

151, 607 and 56 Squadrons

On August 12 1940 Radwanski was sent to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum for the 4th Polish Pilots’ Course, for testing and grading. He went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 19 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 151 Squadron at Digby on September 12, moved to 607 Squadron at Tangmere on October 3 and then to 56 Squadron at Boscombe Down on October 14. Radwanski was posted to 302 Squadron at Jurby on May 21 1941. He moved to 316 Squadron at Northolt on December 16 1941. He collided with Sergeant Musial on February 13 1942. Radwanski baled out, slightly injured, and Musial was killed. Awarded the KW (19.2.42), Radwanski was posted away on April 16 to Northolt and later went to Croydon. On July 4 1942 he was sent to 16 FTS, Newton, as an instructor. After a course at 2 FIS, Montrose, Radwanski instructed at Newton until April 15 1944, when he was posted to HQ PAF, Blackpool. After a series of moves, he went to 61 OTU, Rednal on January 8 1945, for a refresher course. He joined 84 GSU on February 28 and was posted to 317 Squadron in Holland on March 11 1945 for operations. Radwanski was awarded two Bars to the KW (20.6.45) and was released from the PAF in late 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1961. PO 1.3.41 FO 1.3.42 FL 1.3.43

JERZY RADOMSKI PO

Pilot

Born on May 2 1913, Radwanski was a trained psychologist in Poland before the war. He arrived in Britain in late 1939 and was commissioned in the RAFVR at RAF Eastchurch in March 1940. From June 1 he was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting.

42572 P 1427

PO

PO

Pilot

British

603 Squadron

Rafter was born in 1921 at Elmley Lodge, Harborne, the son of Sir William Rafter, Chief Constable of Birmingham. He was at Shrewsbury School from 1932 and was Novice Boxing Champion in 1933.

303 Squadron

Radomski was born on July 18 1915 and was in the PAF before the war. In September 1939 he was serving with 113 Eskadra. On the 1st he destroyed a Bf 109 and probably a He 111 and on the 5th he shared in destroying a Ju 87.

He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 26 1939, as a pupil pilot at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell. He moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 14 Course, which ran from September 9 1939 to January 27 1940. From February 1 Rafter carried out twin-engine training at No 2 School of Army Cooperation at Andover. He went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum on March 17 and returned to Andover on April 26. With training completed, Rafter joined 225 Squadron at Odiham on May 9 1940, flying Lysanders. In August he volunteered for Fighter Command and on the 22nd he was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on the 31st. During an action over the Biggin Hill area on September 5, on his first sortie with 603, Rafter is believed to have been shot down by a Bf 109. He baled out and landed at Marden. His Spitfire, X 4264, crashed nearby. He was admitted to West Kent Hospital, Maidstone, with wounds to his head and right leg. He did not return to the squadron until November 26. On November 29 1940 Rafter was killed, when his Spitfire, P 7449, inexplicably dived out of formation and crashed at Cherry Tree Farm, near Kingswood, Kent. There is now a stone monument to him at the site. Rafter is buried in St Peter’s churchyard, Harborne, Birmingham. His brother, Charles, was killed in a flying accident at Stradishall on October 11 1940, serving as a pilot with 214 Squadron.

After the fall of Poland, Radomski made his way to France and joined l’Armée de l’Air. In June 1940 he was serving with Groupe de Chasse III/10 and on the 1st he shared a He 111 and on the 7th he shared a Bf 109. When the French collapse came, Radomski went to England. He went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. He joined 303 Squadron at Northolt on August 21 1940. He was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 2 to convert to Hurricanes. On the 4th he crashed in Master N 7954 but was unhurt. Radomski rejoined 303 on September 27. On the 30th he shared in the destruction of a Do 17. On this day his Hurricane, P 3663, was severely damaged by Bf 109s over mid-Channel and Radomski crash-landed on the beach near Lydd, unhurt. He was attached to SHQ Digby from 303 from November 7 to 15 1940. He was awarded the KW (23.12.40) and Bar (1.2.41). On April 14 1941 he went to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as an instructor. Radomski rejoined 303 Squadron, again at Northolt, on November 19 1941 but moved to 316 Squadron there on December 14. He damaged a FW 190 on April 25 1942 and shared a probable FW 190 on May 6. He was awarded a second Bar to the KW (20.8.42). Radomski was posted to 222 Squadron at Drem on August 27 1942. He once again rejoined 303 Squadron, then at Kirton-in-Lindsey, on December 8. He moved to 317 Squadron at Perranporth on June 28 1943, damaged a FW 190 on July 26 and was appointed a Flight Commander on September 2. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and another damaged on the 8th. Radomski was awarded the C de G (Fr) (7.7.43) and the VM (5th Class) (20.12.43). Rested from operations, Radomski went to HQ PAF, Blackpool on April 8 1944, was posted to PAF Staff College on January 2 1945 and afterwards served at HQ 46 Group, on administrative duties. He was released from the PAF in November 1946 and awarded a third Bar to the KW (31.10.47). Radomski joined the RAF in 1951 (No 501702), in the General Duties Branch. In 1956 he was an instructor on the Basic Flying Instructors’ Course at CFS, South Cerney. He later transferred to the Catering Branch and retired on July 18 1973 as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. Radomski died on December 17 1978.

APO 19.8.39 PO 1.2.40

WOODROW RAINE 754118

Sgt

Pilot

British

610 Squadron

Raine, of Cumberland, joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he carried out his elementary flying training at 22 EFTS, Cambridge. He moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand for No 49 Course, which ran from June 16 to September 7 1940. With training completed, he arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 7 but his Spitfire conversion course did not begin until the 16th. He joined 610 Squadron on October 5. On June 22 1941 Raine destroyed a Bf 109, on the 25th he probably destroyed another, on July 19 probably another and on the 23rd, he destroyed a Bf 109. All these enemy aircraft were shot down over France. Raine was killed in action on August 21 1941, as a Sergeant

PO 1.3.41 FO 1.3.42 FL 1.3.43 FL 26.2.51

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

with 610, on a ‘Circus’ operation over France. Raine was 22. He is buried in Longuenesse Souvenir Cemetery, St Omer, France.

JOHN STRACHAN RAMSAY

DOUGLAS NORMAN RAINS

Ramsay joined the RAFVR in October 1939 as an Airman u/t Wop/ AG. With training completed, he joined 22 Squadron at North Coates in May/June 1940, equipped with Beauforts.

641910

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

968956 Sgt

248 Squadron

Rains, of Poynton, Cheshire, was educated at Stockport Grammar School. He joined the RAF on May 2 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG and with training completed, he joined 248 Squadron at Sumburgh on August 18 1940.

Wop/AG

NORMAN HUGH DONALD RAMSAY 62658

Sgt

Pilot

British

Pilot

British

610 and 222 Squadrons

Born on July 29 1919 at Eastcote, Middlesex, Ramsay joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745176). At that time he was an engineering apprentice at Vickers Supermarine at Southampton.

LESLIE FRANCIS RALLS Sgt

235 Squadron

He was attached to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on August 18 and flew his first sortie with it on the 25th. He flew his last sortie with 235 on September 1 and later he was back with 22 Squadron, flying his next operational sortie with it on September 29. He was killed on April 27 1941, as a Sergeant with 22 Squadron, aged 28. Ramsay’s name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 51.

On August 12 1942 Rains was Wop/AG in the crew of Wellington T 2919, of 7 (Coastal) OTU at Limavady, Londonderry. The aircraft was on a navigational training flight, when the pilot came down through cloud and crashed into high ground at Hulls Farm, Coal Hill, Co Derry. Rains and two other members of the crew were killed. He was a Flight Sergeant, aged 22. He is buried in St George’s churchyard, Poynton.

48668

British

605 Squadron and 422 Flight Ramsay began his elementary flying training at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble and had soloed on the Avro Cadet before he was called to full-time service at the outbreak of war. After 3 ITW, Hastings, Ramsay was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 16 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 11 1940. With training completed, Ramsay joined 92 Squadron at Northolt on May 14. He moved to 610 Squadron at Gravesend on June 10 and on July 3 he shared in damaging a Do 17. On August 8 he was slightly wounded in the leg during a section patrol over Dungeness. His aircraft was attacked from the rear and above by a Bf 109 and hit in several places. Ramsay made a safe landing at Hawkinge despite restricted rudder control and a flat tyre. On August 14 he destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 26th he probably destroyed a Bf 109. On September 15 Ramsay joined 222 Squadron at Hornchurch. He was attacked by a Do 17 over Coltishall on February 10 1941, whilst on a night training flight. He took violent evasive action, escaped undamaged and the enemy aircraft was driven off by Sergeant R G Marland of 222 and Sergeant L D Barnes of 257. Commissioned in March 1941, Ramsay shared in the probable destruction of a Ju 88 on April 4. He was posted away to 61 OTU, Rednal on October 22, as an instructor. He went to West Kirby for overseas on December 17 1942 and on January 11 1943 he joined 1435 Squadron at Luqa, Malta. Ramsay was posted back to the UK on July 29 1943 and awarded the DFC (28.9.43). He held a series of staff appointments until August 20 1946, when he was posted to 61 OTU for a refresher course before joining No 1 Squadron at Tangmere on September 11. Ramsay retired from the RAF on July 29 1962, as a Flight Lieutenant. He later went to live in New Zealand and died there in 2002.

Ralls was born on December 20 1916. He joined the RAF on April 26 1933, as an Apprentice Clerk (590723) and passed out on April 30 1935. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. With training completed, he arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge in April 1940 and after converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 607 Squadron in France on May 7. On the 19th Ralls destroyed a Bf 109. The squadron was withdrawn on the 19th, re-assembled at Croydon on the 22nd and then went to Usworth, to regroup. Ralls was posted to 605 Squadron at Drem on May 29 1940. Next day, probably on his first flight with the squadron, Ralls crashed, details unknown. He suffered burns and was ‘shaken’. The squadron went south to Croydon on September 8. Ralls moved to 422 Flight at Shoreham on October 15, to fly Hurricanes in the night defence of London. On November 12 he damaged a Ju 88 and on the 13th he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88. In mid-December 1940 422 moved to Cranage, to become the nucleus of 96 Squadron. Commissioned in May 1942, Ralls baled out whilst with 96 and his injuries made him unfit for further operational flying. He became a Flying Officer and in late 1942 was Controller of the first P 38 Lightning Wing of the USAF. During the 1944 invasion period he was Controller at Deanland in Sussex. Ralls was made an OBE (1.1.71) and he retired from the RAF on December 20 1972, as a Wing Commander. He died in 1976. PO 13.5.42 FO 13.1.43 FL 13.11.46 SL 1.1.55 WC 1.7.64

PO 19.3.41 FO 19.3.42 FL 19.3.43 FL 1.9.45

JOHN BASIL RAMSAY 41204

PO

Pilot

British

151 Squadron

JOHN WILLIAM RAMSHAW 740175

Sgt

Pilot

British

Ramsay, of Lilliput, Dorset, was born in India on July 7 1919. He was educated at Bishops Stortford College. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 25 1938, as a pupil pilot at 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury.

222 Squadron

Ramshaw was born in Beverley, Yorkshire. He was educated at Spencer Street School and Beverley Grammar School. In 1934 he began work as a clerk with the Halifax Building Society. He took private flying lessons and joined the RAFVR in April 193 as an Airman u/t Pilot. He did his flying at Blackburn Aircraft at Brough.

Ramsay went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on September 17 1938 for a short disciplinary course. Ramsay moved on to 9 FTS, Hullavington on October 1, went to 6 Advanced Training Squadron at Warmwell, for the final section of his course, on April 11 1939 and returned to Hullavington on May 5. On May 14 1939 Ramsay joined 24 (Communications) Squadron at Hendon. The squadron went to France on January 23 1940 and was finally withdrawn to Hendon on May 29. Ramsay was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 13 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 151 Squadron at North Weald on July 29 1940. Ramsay failed to return from an engagement with enemy aircraft over Chelmsford on August 18, in Hurricane R 4181, and was reported ‘Missing’. His name appears on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 9. However, a post-war excavation of a Hurricane at Deal Hall Farm, Holliwell Point, Essex proved it to be Ramsay’s and his remains were still in the cockpit. He was buried with full military honours at Brookwood Military Cemetery on October 25 1983.

Called up on September 1 1939, Ramshaw completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on April 6 1940. After converting to Spitfires, he was posted to 222 Squadron at Duxford on May 6. He crashed at Mockbeggar, Collier Street, near Yalding on September 4 1940, after being shot down by Bf 109s, in Spitfire K 9962. Severely injured, Ramshaw was taken to West Kent Hospital but was dead on arrival. He was 24. His funeral took place on the 12th. His coffin was carried by six RAF Sergeants and he was buried in Queensgate Cemetery, Beverley. There is a memorial plaque to Ramshaw at Beverley Grammar School, unveiled on Armistice Day, November 11 1999.

HORACE CHARLES RANDALL 43953

PO

Observer

British

FIU

Randall joined the RAF in September 1931, as an Aircraft Apprentice (565782) and passed out on August 16 1934. He later trained as an Observer and he was commissioned in the Technical Branch (Signals) on June 24 1940. He joined the Fighter Interception Unit.

APO 17.9.38 PO 25.7.39

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

on December 2 1940, as a Flight Commander. Rawlence was released in late 1945 as a Squadron Leader.

Randall served with the FIU throughout the Battle of Britain. He was awarded the AFC (24.9.41) and was still with the FIU in October 1941. Randall retired from the RAF on October 3 1958 as a Squadron Leader.

PO (AAF) 18.7.38 PO 25.8.39 FO 18.1.40 FL 18.1.41 SL 1.3.42 PO 24.6.40 FO 24.6.41 FL 24.6.43 SL 1.8.47

CECIL FREDERICK RAWNSLEY LAURITZ ANDREW WOODNEY RASMUSSEN 391868

Sgt

Air Gunner

New Zealander

102089

Sgt

Air Gunner

He joined 604 Squadron, AAF in late 1936, as an Aircrafthand, for ground duties (804251). In September 1937 he was accepted for training as an air gunner and he was crewed up with John Cunningham. In the first half of 1938 Rawnsley qualified for his air gunner’s badge at Eastchurch and was promoted to LAC. He was called up to full-time service on August 28 1939 and promoted to Sergeant in May 1940. Rawnsley was later given the chance to retrain as a Radio Observer with the squadron and he and Cunningham became one of the most successful and the best-known of the night-fighting partnerships. They had their first victory on February 5 1941, a He 111. Rawnsley was awarded the DFM (4.4.41), then having assisted in the destruction of two enemy aircraft. Then came a Bar to the DFM (23.5.41), for seven enemy aircraft destroyed. Commissioned in July 1941, Rawnsley was awarded the DFC (19.9.41). In July 1942 he was posted with Cunningham to HQ 81 Group, to assist him to direct the work of nightfighter OTUs. In January 1943 Cunningham was given command of 85 Squadron at Hunsdon and Rawnsley again went with him, as Navigation Leader. He was awarded the DSO (26.10.43) and had by then assisted in the destruction of seventeen enemy aircraft, sixteen of them at night. In March 1944 Rawnsley stood down as Navigation Leader, when Cunningham was posted to HQ 11 Group, as Group Captain Night Ops. Rawnsley went to the Fighter Interception Unit but soon afterwards he joined Cunningham, to help with preparations for the invasion of Europe. Rawnsley was released in 1946, as a Squadron Leader. He was awarded the DFC (US) (14.6.46). He rejoined the AAF in 1946, in the Secretarial Branch. He died on February 12 1965.

At the outbreak of war he volunteered for aircrew duties. He was released from the Auckland Regiment and reported to the Ground Training School, Weraroa on December 18 1939. He moved to the Air Observers’ School, Ohakea in midJanuary 1940, for a Lewis gunnery course. Rasmussen sailed for the UK on April 26 in the RMS Rangitiki and arrived on June 8. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting. On July 17 he was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down and after being awarded his air gunner’s badge, he joined 264 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on August 29. In the evening of September 4 1940 Rasmussen was the gunner in a Defiant ordered to take off on an interception patrol. The aircraft crashed shortly after take-off and he and the pilot, Flying Officer D K C O’Malley, were killed. Rasmussen is buried in Kirton-in-Lindsey Burial Ground. He was the youngest of the New Zealanders who took part in the Battle of Britain and had only 19 hours as an Air Gunner at the time of his death.

MALCOLM RAVENHILL FO

Pilot

British

229 Squadron

Ravenhill, of Sheffield, was educated at King Edward VII School, Sheffield. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 7 1938,as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 4 FTS, Abu Sueir on June 3, to continue his flying training. Back in the UK, Ravenhill arrived at 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on January 29 1940 and completed his further training and conversion to Hurricanes there on March 9 1940. He joined 229 Squadron at Digby on March 16. Ravenhill was posted from 229 to Manston on May 13 1940, en route to service in France. He was attached to 615 Squadron at Vitry-en-Artois. He destroyed a Hs 126 on the 17th and returned to Digby on May 20, flying a Gladiator. He rejoined 229. He is credited with a Hs 126 destroyed on the 20th but this may be an error. He was posted from 229 to 17 Squadron at Kenley on June 8 and the squadron left for France on this day. It returned to the UK on June 19 and Ravenhill had rejoined 229, then at Wittering, by June 26. On September 11 1940 he was shot down in combat over Biggin Hill, in Hurricane P 3038. He baled out and he was admitted to Shorncliffe Hospital, suffering from shock. He rejoined 229 on the 15th. He was shot down and killed by Bf 109s on September 30. His Hurricane, P 2815, crashed at Church Road, Ightham. He was 27 years old and is buried in City Road Cemetery, Sheffield. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in 1940. There is a memorial plaque to him at King Edward VII School, unveiled on November 10 2000.

PO 14.7.41 FO 14.4.42 FL 14.7.43 FO (RAuxAF) 30.10.46

RONALD WILFRED RAY 742754

British

British

56 Squadron

RODERICK MALACHI SEABURNE RAYNER

ANTHONY JAMES RAWLENCE Pilot

Pilot

In August 1940 Ray volunteered for Fighter Command and he was posted away from 142 on the 19th and joined 56 Squadron at Boscombe Down on September 5. On the 30th Ray crashed in Hurricane P 3655, following an engagement with Bf 109s and Bf 110s over Bournemouth. He was wounded and suffered a broken arm. As a Warrant Officer, Ray was flying with 604 Squadron in 1943. He destroyed a Dornier over the Humber on July 13 and shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 on the 27th. Ray was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Warrant Officer. He died in 1985.

40138 FO

Sgt

Ray joined the RAFVR about December 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and was posted to 142 Squadron, flying Fairey Battles.

APO 7.5.38 PO 13.5.39 FO 3.9.40

90106

604 Squadron

Born in London in March 1904, Rawnsley was an electrical engineer, concerned with supply to Hendon, Golders Green and Mill Hill.

Rasmussen was born in Auckland on September 10 1921 and educated at Auckland Grammar School. In early 1939 he joined the 3rd Auckland Regiment (TA).

40750

British

264 Squadron

FO

Pilot

British

87 Squadron

Rayner was born on January 6 1918. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 12 1937, as a pupil pilot.

600 Squadron

Rawlence joined 600 Squadron, AAF in 1938 and was commissioned in July. Having reached the required standard and the number of hours, he was offered six months continuous training with the regular RAF, from July 13 1939.

He went to 6 FTS, Netheravon on September 18 and with the course completed, he joined 87 Squadron at Debden on September 17 1938. The squadron went to France at the outbreak of war. On November 6 1939 Rayner shot down a French Potez 63 in error. Fortunately the crew survived. On May 15 1940 Rayner destroyed a Bf 110, on the 16th he shared in the destruction of a Bf 109, on the 19th he destroyed a Bf 109 and a Do 17 and shared a He 111 and on the 20th he destroyed a Bf 110 and a Bf 109 and damaged another Bf 110. The squadron withdrew to Debden on the 22nd. Rayner probably destroyed a Bf 110 on July 25 1940 and destroyed another on August

He was detached to 8 FTS, Montrose, where he joined No 12 Course. On completion of the course on December 9 1939, Rawlence rejoined 600 Squadron, then stationed at Hornchurch. On May 10 1940 he shared in the destruction of a He 111 off the Belgian coast. He was posted from 600 to 23 Squadron at Middle Wallop

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

15. He baled out of Hurricane V 7204 on December 23 1940 in bad weather, near Brize Norton. By that time the squadron had gone over to night-fighting duties. In January 1941 Rayner was made ‘A’ Flight Commander and awarded the DFC (11.2.41). During the night of April 10/11 he attacked and damaged an enemy aircraft in the Gloucester/Tewkesbury area. Rayner was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Wing Commander. He went into Civil Aviation and from 1952 was Civil Air Attaché in the Middle East. He died in 1982.

Squadron (14550031) died of injuries sustained on the night of June 5/6 when a Stirling of 620 Squadron was shot down by flak. He was 26 years old, came from Chadwell Heath and he is buried in the Ranville War Cemetery, France. It is believed that he was the man who took part in the Battle of Britain.

APO 5.9.37 PO 16.9.38 FO 16.5.40 FL 16.4.41 SL 1.6.42

JOSEF RECHKA

Midshipman 21.2.39 Sub-Lt 7.5.40

787084

WILLIAM ALBERT ALEXANDER READ 80822

PO

Pilot British

He joined the RAFVR in July 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741635). He carried out his elementary flying training at 21 E&RFTS, Stapleford Tawney and by the time he reported for full-time service at the outbreak of war he had logged 46 hrs 40 mins flying time. Read went to No 1 ITW at Selwyn College, Cambridge in November 1939 and was afterwards posted to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth for No 6 Course, which ran from December 29 1939 to June 10 1940. On June 10 he was commissioned and posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 263 Squadron at Grangemouth on the 26th but went to ‘A’ Flight, 603 Squadron at Dyce on July 7. Off Aberdeen on the 24th, Read shared in damaging a He 111. Its port engine was stopped but it regained its base on the other. On August 29 he probably destroyed a Bf 109, on September 11 he damaged a Bf 110, on the 15th he damaged a Do 17, on the 18th he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and on October 28 he damaged a Bf 109. On March 4 1941 Read was posted to 53 OTU, Heston, as an instructor, later moving with the unit to Llandow. In September 1941 he went to West Kirby for embarkation to Russia. Read sailed in the River Aston to Archangel, with crated Hurricanes. At Kineshma, on the Volga, the aircraft were assembled by RAF men and test-flown by Read and another pilot. The first flight was made on November 3 1941 and the last on January 13 1942. Read formed five Russian squadrons and instructed the pilots. After returning to the UK, he was posted to 51 OTU, Cranfield in early April 1942. Read was awarded the AFC (11.6.42). He was decorated by the King, who asked him questions about his work in Russia. In March 1943 Read was posted to 29 Squadron at West Malling, on Beaufighters and from May on Mosquitos from Bradwell Bay. He moved to the Intensive Flying Development Flight at Boscombe Down in September 1943, testing the Westland Welkin. In early February 1944 Read went to the AFDU at Wittering and flew various aircraft in developing rocket projectiles. He was seconded to BOAC in July 1944 and posted to Cairo. Read flew as First Officer on Lodestars to Istanbul and Nairobi and later on Ensigns to Calcutta. He was released from the RAF in March 1946 and eventually joined BOAC, as a Junior Captain, at £600 per year. In 1949 Read began flying Constellations on the London-Sydney run and later Comets. He retired from BOAC in 1963 and went farming. Read died in May 2000.

CHARLES ALFRED REAM Pilot

British

235 Squadron

Ream joined the RAFVR about August 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on August 19 1940. On November 19 Ream was posted with his flight to RAF Aldergrove, where it was combined with a flight from 236 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron. Ream flew his first sortie with 272 on December 8 1940. No further service details traced. Ream died in 1947.

JOHN REARDON-PARKER Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

Pilot

British

Czechoslovakian

310 Squadron

When the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939 all Czech military and civilian aircraft were grounded. Rechka was one of 1500 Czech pilots invited to join the Luftwaffe but he decided to leave the country before the invitation became an order. He left on August 7 1939 and, with the help of an underground organisation, he, and some other Czech airmen, were smuggled over the border to Poland. He reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate in Krakow. On August 17 he boarded a ship at Gdynia and four days later arrived in Calais. He was required to join the French Foreign Legion with the assurance that he would transfer to a French military unit if war was declared. Rechka transferred to l’Armée de l’Air in late 1939. On November 6 1939 he was sent to Chartres to join 21 Escadrille of GC III/7 for fighter pilot training. He stayed with GC III/7, with frequent changes of location, until the French capitulation. On June 24 1940 he boarded the General Chanzy at Port Vendres and sailed to Oran, Algeria. With other Czech pilots he went by train to Casablanca and from there by ship to Liverpool, via Gibraltar, where he arrived on July 15 1940. He had been awarded the C de G (Fr). Rechka was sent to the Czechoslovak airmen’s depot at Cosford, where he enlisted in the RAFVR. He joined 310 Squadron on August 6 and made his first operational flight on August 17. Rechka probably destroyed a Bf 110 on September 9 and destroyed a He 111 on the 15th. On July 1 1941, he was posted to SFS at Kemble and also promoted to Pilot Officer. He was posted to 27 MU at Shawbury on September 18 1941 but was only there until October 1 when he was posted to RAF Ferry Command to ferry aircraft between Montreal and Prestwick, usually via Goose Bay, Greenland and Iceland. From May 20 to June 5 1942 he was temporarily posted to 34 SFTS, at Medicine Hat, Canada, as an instructor. On December 1 1942 he transferred to RAF Transport Command and was posted to 24 Squadron, based at Hendon. During his time with the squadron he was First Officer on a flight that took Winston Churchill to Paris and Brussels. He was also detached to Algeria flying mainly to Casablanca and Gibraltar. During this time he contracted malaria. On May 1 1945 he was posted to 147 Squadron, based at Croydon, where he remained until the end of the war. He returned to Czechoslovakia in August and from September 1 until the end of the year flew with a Transport Command unit of the Czech Air Force based at Prague-Ruzyne. He left the Air Force on December 31 and joined the state airline, CSA. Initially he flew exLuftwaffe Ju 52s but switched to DC-3s a year later which he flew around Europe. Following the communist takeover, in February 1948, the Czechs who had fought with the Allies were regarded as ‘tainted’. Rechka, now married, chose to try to escape. With Jan Kaucky and Eduard Prchal, both former 310 Squadron pilots, he planned to steal an aircraft and fly to England. After a year of planning, on September 30 1950, they were successful when Kaucky, as chief test pilot for CSA, took Dakota DC-3, OK-WAA for a test flight from Prague-Ruzyn airport. He had loaded extra fuel and flew to a field a short distance from Prague, where he landed. With the engines running, Rechka and Prchal, with their wives and families, quickly boarded and the aircraft took off en route to Manston, England, where they landed. The Station Commander was a former colleague of Prchal. Rechka did not wish to resume a military career but his Czech civilian pilot’s licence was not recognised by the British civil aviation authorities. He had to work to support his family whilst he studied, for two years to qualify for a British commercial pilot’s licence. He gained the licence on September 23 1952. From November 17 1952 he flew with Transair Ltd based at Croydon. He remained there until July 31 1960 when the company, together with other airlines, merged to form British United Airways (BUA). He flew with the new company, as a Captain, until October 31 1965 when he retired from BUA. He then joined Morton Air Services. While he worked for it the company became British United Island Airways and then British Island Airways. In the final years of his career he flew with Macedonian Aviation, Intra Airways and Express Air Services (CI) Ltd which were all charter companies. After an aviation career which spanned some 50 years Rechka retired from flying on February 21 1981. Rechka died in Britain on January 15 1984 and he is buried in the Czechoslovak exServicemen’s plot at Brookwood Cemetery.

PO 10.6.40 FO 10.6.41 FL 10.6.42

Sgt

Pilot

Rechka was born on September 12 1910 in Jesenice, near Prague. On October 1 1928 he went to the Military Aviation Academy at Prostejov to begin military flying training. On October 1 1930 he was posted, as a fighter pilot, to 32 Fighter Squadron of 1 Air Regiment at Chleb. At the end of December 1933 he was posted to the Air Force test Flying Unit at Letnany Airbase, near Prague. On May 1 1937 he resigned from the Air Force and joined the National airline, CSA, as an airline pilot.

263 and 603 Squadrons Born on August 11 1918 in Palmers Green, Middlesex, Read was educated at Mill Hill School. He worked for a publisher including on the proofs of the ‘Just William’ books.

741907

Sgt

804 Squadron

Reardon-Parker entered the Air Branch of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve on February 21 1939, rated as a Midshipman. He joined 804 Squadron at Hatston on June 11 1940, flying Gladiators on dockyard defence. He was still with 804 on November 3. He was later with 757 Squadron at Worthy Down and in April 1941 he joined 752 Squadron at Piarco, Trinidad. On November 28 1941 Reardon-Parker’s commission was terminated. In France on June 7 1944, the day after D Day, a Lance-Corporal John Reardon-Parker of 591 Parachute

PO 1.7.40

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

LESLIE ARTHUR EDWIN REDDINGTON

LAWRENCE HUGH MURRELL REECE

742516

747825

Sgt

Pilot

British

152 Squadron

Reddington came from Coundon, Warwickshire. He was born at Stoke, Coventry on June 21 1914. He was educated at John Gulson School and Coventry Junior Technical College.

Pilot

British

British

235 Squadron

He was a member of the crew of Blenheim N 3541, which failed to return from an operational sortie on July 18 1940. Reece, Pilot Officer R L Patterson, pilot, and Sergeant R Y Tucker, gunner, were reported ‘Missing’. Reece was 26. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 18.

WILLIAM EDWIN REECE 116795

AC

Radar Operator

British

FIU

Reece joined the RAFVR at Padgate in June 1940 (1101601) on ground duties. He volunteered for aircrew duties and went on a short signals and radar course at the Signals School, Middle Wallop, after which he was posted to the Fighter Interception Unit on September 15, as a radar operator. Reece flew two operational sorties on October 10 1940, on the second of which, a contact was made at 17000 feet. The FIU Blenheim was unable to reach a high enough speed to make an attack. He was a Sergeant in 1941 and was commissioned in February 1942. Reece was still with the FIU in March 1942. No further service details traced.

ERIC ARTHUR REDFERN Sgt

Observer

Reece joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and was with 235 Squadron in June 1940.

He served an apprenticeship at the Daimler Engineering Co at Coventry and later taught mathematics and technical drawing at Coventry Technical College in the evenings. In November 1938 Reddington joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot and began his flying training at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his elementary flying at 7 EFTS, Desford and moved on, to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 19 Course, from April 11 to July 24 1940. Reddington completed the course, arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 3, converted to Spitfires and he then joined 152 Squadron at Warmwell on August 17. During combat over Portland on September 30, he was shot down, in Spitfire L 1072, and is believed to have crashed into the sea. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 18. Reddington was married and had a daughter, born in 1936. His widow had their second daughter in February 1941 and named her Lesley, after her father.

754694

Sgt

PO 17.2.42

607 and 232 Squadrons

HORACE REED

Redfern, from Exning, Suffolk, gained an aviator certificate at the Norwich and Norfolk Aero Club in February 1939. He joined the RAFVR in July that year, as an Airman u/t Pilot, and did his weekend flying at 22 E&RFTS , Cambridge.

1001998

Sgt

Radar Operator

British

600 Squadron

Reed joined the RAFVR on March 31 1940, as an Aircrafthand. After basic training, he volunteered for aircrew duties and went to 2 Electrical and Wireless School, Yatesbury for a short radar course.

Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 3 FTS, South Cerney on No 31 Course, which ran from November 20 1939 to May 23 1940. He joined 111 Squadron at Digby on May 23. Redfern went to 607 Squadron at Croydon on June 2 1940 and he moved to 232 Squadron at Sumburgh on September 3. He was posted to 242 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on January 29 1941. Redfern claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed on a bomber-escort to Bethune on June 17, damaged a Bf 109 on the 23rd and damaged another on a Stirling-escort to Lille on July 8. 242 provided low-level escort for Blenheims, sent to attack enemy supply vessels at Le Touquet, on August 17 1941. The bombers turned away in the face of intense opposition and did not bomb. Redfern was one of two 242 Squadron pilots shot down and killed in the action. Aged 27, he was a Flight Sergeant at the time of his death. He is buried in Etaples Military Cemetery, France. Initially his remains were regarded as those of an unknown airman. Redfern’s identity was established after the war.

He joined 600 Squadron at Manston on July 11 and flew operationally with the squadron. After failing to qualify as a Radio Observer in late 1940 he came off aircrew duties, losing his acting rank of Sergeant. Reed remustered as a firefighter and after training, joined 45 Squadron, serving with it in the Middle East, and later India, from November 11 1941 to September 13 1945. He was released from the RAF on May 2 1946, as a Corporal.

BRIAN VICTOR REES 40942

FO

Pilot

British

610 Squadron

Rees joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 16 1938. With training completed, he joined ‘Y’ Flight, No 1 AACU at Manorbier on December 18 1939. He was detached to RAF Locking on December 30, for a parachute course.

JOHN REDMAN 41952

PO

Pilot

British

245, 43 and 257 Squadrons

Rees arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge from No 1 AACU on May 28 1940 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 610 Squadron at Gravesend on June 16. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on August 12, probably destroyed a Ju 87 on the 14th and destroyed a Bf 109 and a Do 17 on the 18th. His name does not appear on an Air Force List after January 1944, so, presumably, he left the service. Rees died in 1979.

Redman was born in Liverpool on February 1 1915. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on February 6 1939, as a pupil pilot. With training completed, Redman joined the newly-formed 245 Squadron at Leconfield on November 6 1939.

APO 9.7.38 PO 16.8.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 He was detached for a time to 605 Squadron at Wick from March 30 1940. He was back with 245 before the end of May. Over Dunkirk on June 1 he destroyed a Bf 109. Redman went from 245 on detachment to 43 Squadron at Usworth on September 18 1940. He joined 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on September 27, on attachment from 43 Squadron. He was posted from 245 Squadron to 257

ROBERT REID 80836

PO

Pilot

British

46 Squadron

Reid joined the RAFVR about February 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740059). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and was serving with 229 Squadron by early November 1939.

Squadron on September 24. He crashed at Saffrey Farm, Owens Court, Selling on October 12, after a combat with Bf 109s over Deal, unhurt. On November 11 Redman damaged a Bf 109. He was posted from 257 to 55 OTU, Aston Down, presumably as an instructor. Redman later served with the Chindits in Burma as RAF Liaison Officer with No 1 Column. He died as a result of an action on April 20 1943, reportedly while trying to help a wounded man under Japanese fire. He is remembered on the Singapore Memorial.

He moved to 23 Squadron at Wittering on November 11 1939, served with it until June 1940. He was commissioned on the 16th and then joined 46 Squadron at Digby on June 22. He damaged a Bf 109 on September 14, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 18th, destroyed another on October 15 and probably destroyed another on the 29th. On February 11 1945 Reid destroyed a Ju 88. He was killed on March 23 1945, during a strike against German shipping at

APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

JAMES VERDUN RENVOIZE

Dalsfjord, Norway, as a Squadron Leader with 235 Squadron, based at Banff. His Mosquito received a direct hit. Reid is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 265. The body of his navigator, Flying Officer A D Turner, was buried locally.

110352

Sgt Pilot

He applied to join the RAFVR in 1938 but was advised to take a six month course in mathematics and aircraft engineering at Chelsea Aeronautical College. After doing so, he applied again and was attested on May 4 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748268). Before being called up at the outbreak of war, Renvoize had done his weekend flying at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham. He went to No 1 ITW, Cambridge in October 1939, moved to 10 EFTS, Yatesbury on December 5 and to 3 FTS, South Cerney on April 28 1940. With the course completed on August 3, Renvoize arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 4th, where he converted to short-nose Blenheims. He joined the newly-reformed 247 Squadron at Roborough on August 14, to fly Gladiators in defence of the Devonport Naval Dockyard. The squadron began to receive Hurricanes in December 1940 and later began intruder raids over France. Commissioned in October 1941, Renvoize was posted to 276(ASR) Squadron at Warmwell on February 10 1942, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. He was still with 276s when it went to France in September 1944. He was posted away to 2 FIS, Montrose on February 7 1945, for an instructor’s course. From May 28 Renvoize was at 7(P)AFU, Peterborough, as assistant to the Wing Commander Flying. He was released from the RAF in January 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He ran a photography and fishing tackle business at Newquay, Cornwall. Renvoize died on August 6 2004.

HUGH WILLIAM REILLEY PO

Pilot

Canadian

247 Squadron

Renvoize was born on March 15 1916 in North London. He went to school in Palmers Green and his first job was in an office in the City of London.

PO 17.6.40 FO 25.4.41 FL 25.4.42

43043

British

64, 92 and 66 Squadrons

Reilley was born in London, Ontario on May 26 1918, the son of an American father and a Scottish mother. Soon afterwards the family moved to Detroit but in 1928 or 1929 they returned to live in London, Ontario. The parents separated and, after Reilley’s mother died on May 25 1930, he was brought up by his uncle and aunt in London, Ontario. Reilley was at London South Collegiate High School from 1933 to 1938 and after leaving, he worked at the Highland Golf Club and a local winery, both in London. In May 1939 Reilley and a friend left for England and he was successful in obtaining a short service commission. He joined the RAF on September 25 1939, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to No 1 ITW at Jesus College, Cambridge. In late October Reilley was at 2 EFTS, Filton and in early January 1940 he was at 10 EFTS, Yatesbury. He moved to 2 FTS, Brize Norton for No 46 Course, which ran from March 25 to July 11 1940. Reilley was transferred for further training to No 47 Course, which ended on August 3. He completed the course and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 10. After converting to Spitfires, Reilley joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield on September 2 and flew his first operational sortie on the 3rd and his last with 64 on the 6th. He moved to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill on September 12 and then joined 66 Squadron at Gravesend on the 15th. Reilley probably destroyed a Bf 109 on September 23, damaged a Bf 109 and shared in the probable destruction of a He 111 on the 24th, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 27th and on the 30th he damaged a Do 17 and a Bf 110. Reilley was shot down and killed on October 17 1940 by Major Mölders of JG 51, in combat over Westerham. His Spitfire, R 6800, crashed on Crockham Hill, Sevenoaks and burned out. He is buried in Gravesend Cemetery, Kent.

PO 23.10.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 23.10.43

RICHARD CAREW REYNELL 32091

FL

Pilot

Australian

43 Squadron

Born in Reynella, South Australia on January 9 1912, he was taken by his mother to England in 1920 and was sent to the Golden Parsonage Preparatory School in Hertfordshire.

APO 23.3.40 PO 10.8.40

Reilly reported to the Ground Training School, Weraroa on February 13 1940, going a month later to the Air Observers’ School, Ohakea, for a gunnery course. He sailed for the UK in the RMS Rangitiki on April 26 and arrived on June 8. After a period at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, Reilly was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down, where he was awarded his air gunner’s badge after further training. He joined 23 Squadron at Ford on September 21 1940. Reilly was with the squadron until early March 1942, when he was posted to 116 Squadron at Hooton Park, flying in Lysanders on radar calibration duties. In May he went to 1653 Conversion Unit, Polebrook for crewing-up and conversion to Liberators. Commissioned in June, Reilly joined 1445 Flight, Ferry Command at Lyneham and he flew in a Liberator on a delivery flight to Egypt, returning as a passenger in various civil aircraft, including a Boeing Clipper. On October 16 1942 Reilly left the UK to join 160 Squadron at Aqir, Palestine, flying in a Liberator intended for squadron use. He arrived on the 19th and on the 27th took off on an operational flight to Crete, from which the aircraft failed to return. Radio contact was lost in the early hours of October 28 and the crew is officially presumed lost then. Another member of the crew was a New Zealander, Pilot Officer C R Durrant. He and Reilly had been together from the day they joined up. After the war Reilly’s remains were re-interred in the Suda Bay Military Cemetery, Crete.

Mrs Reynell later returned to South Australia and Richard and his sister Lydia, grew up there. He went to St Peter’s School, Adelaide. Reynell returned to England in 1929 and passed the Oxford University entrance examination, to read Agriculture at Balliol College. He joined the University Air Squadron and was commissioned in the RAFO on March 24 1931. He relinquished this on being granted a short service commission in the RAF in September 1931. On the 28th Reynell was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand and with training completed, he joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere on March 8 1932. He flew one of three Furies of the squadron that performed at the International Air Meeting at Brussels on June 11 1933. Reynell went to the Station Flight at Duxford on December 6 1934 and then joined the instructing staff at 8 FTS, Montrose on May 4 1936. He went on to the RAFO on January 15 1937. After a visit to Australia, Reynell returned to Britain and became a test pilot at Hawker. At the outbreak of war, Reynell remained on the RAFO but was seconded to Hawker, to continue his test pilot duties. On August 26 1940 he was attached to 43 Squadron at Tangmere, for operational experience. Reynell claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on September 2 and on the 6th he destroyed a Bf 109, probably destroyed another and shared in the probable destruction of a Ju 88, with 43’s new CO, Squadron Leader C B Hull, a long-time friend of Reynell’s from pre-war RAF days. Reynell was shot down on the 7th, in combat with Bf 109s over South London. He baled out, wounded, but his parachute failed to open and he fell dead near Greyladies. His Hurricane, V 7257, crashed at Crown Point, Blackheath. It is believed that Hull went to Reynell’s assistance, although his own ammunition was exhausted. He too was shot down and killed. It was just one week after Hull took command of 43 Squadron. Reynell is buried in Brookwood Cemetery, Surrey. A memorial to him was unveiled in the area of the crash site on June 28 2013. Reynell’s father, Lieutenant-Colonel Carew Reynell, died at Gallipoli on August 28 1915, aged 32. He was serving with the 9th Australian Light Horse. He is remembered at the Hill 60 Cemetery, Turkey.

PO 10.6.42

PO (RAFO) 24.3.31 PO 28.9.31 FO 28.3.44 FL 1.4.36 FL (RAFO) 15.1.37

CHARLES CHRISTOPHER REILLY NZ 40629

Sgt

Air Gunner

New Zealander

23 Squadron

Born in Auckland on May 15 1913, Reilly went to Te Awamutu District High School and then afterwards worked as a hardware assistant. He volunteered for aircrew duties in late September 1939.

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EDWIN MICHAEL REYNO C 806

FL

Pilot

Canadian

He is buried in the private cemetery of his family home, Parnham, Beaminster, Dorset. Rhodes-Moorhouse’s brother-in-law, Flying Officer R S Demetriadi, was killed on August 11 1940, aged 21. He was serving with 601 Squadron and he is buried at Cayeux-sur-Mer in France.

1 (RCAF) Squadron

Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia in 1917, Reyno went to St Mary’s University. He joined the RCAF on January 3 1938 and was with No 1 (RCAF) Squadron when it arrived in the UK on June 20 1940.

PO (AAF) 28.7.37 FO (AAF) 29.1.39

ALAN LESLIE RICALTON

He was attached to RAF Uxbridge from July 5 to 9 for a short course on R/T procedure. Reyno was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander of No 1 (RCAF) on September 1 1940. On this day he shared in damaging a Do 17. He was non-effective sick from September 26 to November 3 1940, with sinus problems. Reyno was posted to 112 (RCAF) Squadron at Digby on December 7 1940. The squadron was re-numbered 2 (F) (RCAF) Squadron on December 9. Reyno arrived at Digby on December 13 to join

70872

Pilot

British

Pilot

British

74 Squadron

Ricalton relinquished his RAFO commission on being granted a short service commission in the RAF in January 1939. 142 Squadron took its Battles to France at the outbreak of war, as part of the AASF. On May 10 1940 the squadron was the first to bomb the advancing Germans. After heavy losses, it was withdrawn to Waddington in June 1940. Ricalton volunteered for Fighter Command in August and joined 74 Squadron at Wittering on the 19th. He was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 109s over Maidstone on October 17 1940. His Spitfire, P 7360, crashed near Hollingbourne. Ricalton was 26 years old. He is buried in Sittingbourne Cemetery, Kent. He received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.41).

RICHARD ARTHUR RHODES PO

FO

Ricalton was born on January 21 1914 at Hazelrigg, Northumberland. He joined the RAFO on January 17 1938, as a pupil pilot. He was commissioned in Class ‘A’ of the RAFO in March 1938. He was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose on April 9 and with the course completed, he joined 142 Squadron at Andover on October 29 1938.

it , as a Flight Commander. He returned to Canada in 1941 and served at RCAF bases at Rockliffe, Ontario and Mossbank, Saskatchewan. In 1942 he was appointed Chief Instructor at No 1 (Fighter) OTU at Bagotville, Quebec. He was awarded the AFC (8.6.44). In 1944 Reyno was Station Commander at Greenwood, Nova Scotia and in 1946 he was appointed Senior Personnel Officer at Western Air Command, Vancouver. He retired on October 30 1972 as a Lieutenant-General, Canadian Forces. Reyno died on February 10 1982.

42529

FO 26.8.39 FL 3.9.40

29 Squadron

APO (RAFO) 26.3.38 PO 17.1.39 FO 17.8.40

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 26 1939, as a pupil pilot. Rhodes completed his training and arrived at 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on March 11 1940. After converting to Blenheims, he joined 29 Squadron at Digby on April 6.

PETER GEOFFREY RICH 939496

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

25 Squadron

In the early hours of August 18, Rhodes, flying with Sergeant W J Gregory as his gunner, destroyed a He 111 off Spurn Head. On August 25 1940 Rhodes failed to return and is believed to have been shot down in combat over Wainfleet, crashing into the sea in Blenheim L 1330. He and his crew of two, Sergeant R J Gouldstone, air gunner, and AC 2 N Jacobson, radar operator, were reported ‘Missing’. Rhodes was 19. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 9.

Rich joined the RAFVR in October 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and with his training completed, he joined 25 Squadron at North Weald in late September 1940. He flew his first sortie with the squadron on October 2.

APO 19.8.39 PO 10.2.40

Rich was still with 25 on December 12 1940. He later served with 458 Squadron on Wellingtons and instructed. He died in 2003.

WILLIAM HENRY RHODES-MOORHOUSE 90140

FL

Pilot

British

601 Squadron Born in Brompton Square, Kensington, London on March 4 1914, Rhodes-Moorhouse was the only son of W B Rhodes-Moorhouse, who earned the first VC ever given for supreme valour in aerial operations. He bombed Courtrai rail junction on April 26 1915 and, although he regained his airfield, he was mortally wounded and died on the 27th.

DUNCAN HAMILTON RICHARDS Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

Pilot

British

111 Squadron

Richards entered the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on September 11 1939, rated as a Midshipman. He did his elementary flying training at 24 EFTS, Sydenham, Northern Ireland. He went to No 1 FTS, Leuchars for No 8 Course, which ran from January 15 to June 22 1940.

Rhodes-Moorhouse the younger was educated at Eton and obtained his pilot’s licence at Heston when he was seventeen. He joined 601 Squadron, AAF in 1937. He was a keen and skilled skier and was selected for the 1936 British Olympic team. However, injury prevented him taking part. Called to full-time service on August 26 1939, RhodesMoorhouse took part in an attack on the Luftwaffe seaplane base at Borkum on November 28 1939. Twelve Blenheims took off from Bircham Newton, six from 25 Squadron and six from 601 Squadron. All the aircraft returned and landed safely at Debden. Three He 115s were destroyed and another three damaged. It was the first fighter attack of the war on a German target. On May 16 1940 Rhodes-Moorhouse went with ‘A’ Flight of 601 to Merville. He shot down a He 111 E of Brussels on the 18th and destroyed a Bf 109 on the 22nd. Rhodes-Moorhouse shared Do 17s on July 7 and 11. On the 11th he was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. He destroyed a Ju 88 and shared in the probable destruction of another on the 16th. He was awarded the DFC (30.7.40). On August 11 he claimed two Bf 109s destroyed, on the 18th another, on the 30th he shared a He 111, on the 31st he probably destroyed two Bf 109s and on September 4 he destroyed a Do 17. On September 6 1940 Rhodes-Moorhouse was shot down and killed in combat over Tunbridge Wells. His Hurricane, P 8818, crashed near High Brooms Viaduct, Southborough.

With training completed, he was attached to the RAF on June 29 and he went to 12 OTU, Benson, to convert to Battles, after which he joined 12 Squadron at Eastchurch on August 30. Richards joined 111 Squadron at Drem on September 22. He was posted away to 73 Squadron at Castle Camps on November 5 1940. The squadron was preparing for a move to the Middle East and it left Debden on the 9th for Birkenhead, where it embarked on the aircraft carrier HMS Furious. On November 29 the squadron flew its Hurricanes off at Takoradi. It then flew in easy stages to Heliopolis, via Lagos, Accra, Kano, Maiduguri, Khartoum,Wadi Halfa and Abu Sueir. During December 1940, the pilots were attached to 274 Squadron in the Western Desert. Richards joined 803 (FAA) Squadron at Dekheila, Egypt on December 12. The squadron was in the Naval Fighter Wing in the Western Desert, flying Hurricanes. He returned to the UK in late 1942 and joined 784 Squadron at Donibristle. After some time at the Air Warfare Training Division, Richards was given command of 809 Squadron and later led 781 Squadron. He died on September 2 1955, still serving. Midshipman 11.9.39 Actg Sub-Lt 14.3.40 Sub-Lt 9.1.41 Lt 14.9.42 Actg Lt Cdr 1949 Lt Cdr 14.9.50

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WILLIAM CHARLES RICHARDS 102978

Sgt

Pilot

British

Squadron at Mildenhall, equipped with Heyford bombers. In December 1936 he remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG and began flying. Richardson went on a wireless operators’ course at the Electrical and Wireless School at Cranwell. In March 1937 Richardson was with 149 Squadron at Mildenhall, again with Heyfords. He applied for training as an Air Observer and on February 21 1939 he was interviewed by an Air Commodore and recommended. In May Richardson remustered as an Airman u/t Observer and later in the month he began his navigation course at 5 E&RFTS, Hanworth, flying mainly in the Envoy and the Wessex. In August 1939 he went to 4 AOS, West Freugh, for a bombing and gunnery course and in November he joined the recently-reformed 141 Squadron at Turnhouse. Richardson flew with 141 Squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. In early June 1942 he was a member of the crew of a Havoc that crashed in Kent. The air gunner pulled Richardson and the pilot out of the burning wreckage. They were admitted to Margate Hospital, where the pilot died of his injuries. Richardson was later transferred to the Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, where he underwent plastic surgery by Archie McIndoe, becoming a Guinea Pig. After spending six months in hospital, Richardson went to Hoylake for convalescence. In June 1943 he was posted to an Aircraft Control course at RAF Northolt. Commissioned in September 1943, he remained on control duties in Britain and later Germany until released from the RAF on January 21 1946, as a Flying Officer. Richardson joined the Air Traffic Control Service at Manchester Airport in November 1947 and was one of the team to set up the airways system in the North of England. He died on November 9 1966.

235 Squadron

Richards joined the RAFVR about December 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742710). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and was serving with 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton by September 26 1940. Commissioned in July 1941, Richards was killed on August 11 1941, as a Pilot Officer with 235. His Blenheim failed to return to Sumburgh from a patrol. Sergeant J D R H Archibald and Sergeant J C Mason were also lost. Richards is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 34. PO 5.7.41

ERIC RICHARDSON 45464

Sgt

Pilot

British

242 Squadron

Richardson was born on December 4 1912. He was educated at Scarborough Boys’ High School and joined the RAF in January 1929, as an Aircraft Apprentice (563377). He passed out in December 1931, as a Fitter. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. Details of his pre-war training and service are not known. On May 28 1940 Richardson arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge and after converting to Hurricanes, he went to Hendon on June 6, for onward posting to France. However, on that day he joined 242 Squadron at Biggin Hill. The squadron moved to France on the 8th, to help cover the retreat of British troops to the Atlantic ports. It was withdrawn on the 18th. Richardson flew back with no maps and after running out of fuel, he landed on a beach near Minehead. He claimed a Ju 88 destroyed on August 1 and a Do 17 on September 9. Richardson was commissioned in February 1941 and served with 242 until July 18 1941, when he was posted to 258 Squadron at Martlesham Heath as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. He was awarded the DFC (9.9.41). Richardson retired from the RAF on October 1 1958 as a Squadron Leader. He died on September 2 1973 and his ashes were interred at Scarborough Crematorium, Yorkshire.

PO 9.9.43 FO 9.3.44

WILLIAM ARTHUR RICHARDSON 29047

SL

Pilot

British

Born on July 19 1903, Richardson joined the RAF on a short service commission in March 1930. He was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on the 29th and with training completed, he joined 23 Squadron at Kenley on March 8 1931. He was granted a Permanent Commission on June 1 1936, went to SHQ Hal Far, Malta on July 31 1936 and transferred to 3 AACU there on August 16 1937.

PO 19.2.41 FO 19.10.41 FL 19.10.42 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.1.49

ROLAND WHARRIER RICHARDSON 113339

Sgt

Pilot British

Richardson returned to the UK in early 1938 and on March 19 he went to 9 FTS, Hullavington, as an instructor. He was posted to the Air Staff at HQ 13 Group on July 24 1939, as Squadron Leader Ops. After 141 Squadron was reformed at Turnhouse on October 4 1939, Richardson joined it on the 6th, to command. On July 19 1940 Richardson, with Pilot Officer A B Halliwell as his gunner, was flying one of the nine Defiants which were attacked by Bf 109s off Dover. Theirs was one of only four that returned safely to base. Halliwell probably shot down a Bf 109 in the action. Richardson relinquished command of 141 Squadron on September 17 1940 but remained on the squadron strength, as a supernumerary, until October 8, when he was posted to the Fighter Sector HQ, Dyce. He assumed command there on October 28. Richardson flew an operational sortie from Dyce on November 2 1940, with 111 Squadron. He was still commanding the Fighter Sector, Dyce on February 1 1941. He retired from the RAF on July 19 1955 as a Wing Commander and died in 1970.

610 Squadron

Born on May 2 1920, Richardson joined the RAFVR in May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748340). Called to full-time service at the outbreak of war, he carried out his flying training at 6 EFTS, Sywell and at 9 EFTS, Ansty and then went to 5 FTS, Sealand for No 50 Course, which ran from July 6 to September 29 1940. Richardson arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 29th and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 610 Squadron at Acklington on October 14. Tour-expired in December 1941, he was commissioned and volunteered for the Middle East. Richardson joined 80 Squadron in the Western Desert in February 1942, was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander in April and posted away to

PO 14.3.30 FO 14.9.31 FL 14.9.35 SL 1.10.38 WC 1.6.41 WC 1.10.46

71 OTU, Abu Sueir in June. On May 5 1943 he joined 92 Squadron in Tunisia, moved with it to Malta on June 9 and then to Sicily on July 14. Six days later he was posted to 93 Squadron at Comiso, Sicily. On February 18 1944 Richardson’s second tour ended and in April he returned to the UK and was posted to CGS, Catfoss on June 10, as an instructor. In September he was sent to the USA, as Gunnery and Attack Adviser to the British FTSs there. Richardson returned to the UK in September 1945. He was awarded the AFC (13.6.59) and retired from the RAF on May 2 1963 as a Squadron Leader. He died on November 18 1988.

HERBERT WAIN RICKETTS 54692

Observer

British

Observer

British

235 Squadron

He was posted with his flight to RAF Aldergrove on November 19 1940, where it combined with a flight of 236 Squadron on the 21st, to reform 272 Squadron. He flew his first sortie with 272 on the 23rd. On December 21 1940 Ricketts baled out of a Blenheim over Ireland and was unhurt. It is unclear if he was interned by the Irish authorities or whether he managed to get to Northern Ireland. If interned at the Curragh Military Camp, Dublin, he may have been one of the successful escapees from there on June 26 1941. Commissioned in March 1944, Ricketts was killed on March 31 1945, as a Flying Officer Navigator with 299 Squadron, operating in Stirlings from Shepherd’s Grove, Suffolk. He was 26 and is buried in Indre churchyard, Sondeled, Norway.

RONALD WILLIAM RICHARDSON Sgt

Sgt

Ricketts, of Rowsley, joined the RAF about June 1939 as a direct-entry Airman u/t Observer (581473). He completed his training and was with 235 Squadron at Detling in June 1940 and he served with it throughout the Battle of Britain.

PO 3.12.41 FO 3.8.42 FL 3.8.43 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.10.55

52460

141 Squadron

141 Squadron

Richardson was born on February 8 1916 at Knaresborough, Yorkshire. He was at King James’s Grammar School there from 1927 to 1932 and after leaving he went to work for a local printing firm, whilst awaiting entry into the RAF.

PO 21.3.44 FO 21.9.44

He joined the RAF in August 1935, as an Aircrafthand (522864). In 1936 he was with 99

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VICTOR ANTHONY RICKETTS 77341

PO

Pilot British

On May 18 1940 he probably destroyed a He 111. On the 19th Riddle was shot down by Bf 110s and made a crashlanding, unhurt. He was reported ‘Missing’ on the 21st, from a patrol over Amiens, after engine failure. Riddle made a crash-landing near Abbeville and rejoined 601 on the 24th. Over Dunkirk on May 27 1940, Riddle damaged a Bf 110. He shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 on July 11, probably destroyed a Bf 110 on August 13 and shared in destroying a Do 17 on September 4. On January 6 1941 Riddle was posted from 601 and went to HQ 10 Group, as a Sector Controller. Later in the war he was in the Far East, at HQ Air Command South East Asia, in Ceylon and later Singapore. Riddle was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader. He was later with an international trading group and his main work was buying Baltic timber for the Australian market. Riddle later had his own textile company. “Jack” Riddle died in August 2009. He was the younger brother of H J Riddle.

248 Squadron Before the war Ricketts was Air Correspondent for the Daily Express in London. In December 1937 he approached A E Clouston (qv) with a proposition that he would arrange the backing for a record-breaking attempt to fly to Australia and back in a DH Comet, if Clouston would take him along as second pilot.

It was arranged and they took off at 4 am on February 2 1938 but came to grief in Turkey, damaging the port undercarriage leg as they took off. They returned to England and a second attempt was planned on a revised route. They set off from Gravesend during the night of March 15 1938 and landed back at Croydon 10 days 21 hrs and 22 mins later, having established eleven records, including the first direct round trip England-New Zealand-England. Ricketts joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as a Sergeant-Pilot (745134). Called up on September 1, he completed his training, was commissioned on February 1 1940 and joined 248 Squadron at Hendon on the 10th. The squadron, which was formed as a night-fighter unit, was transferred to Coastal Command soon after Ricketts’ arrival. The squadron served with Fighter Command during the Battle of Britain. In 1942 Ricketts was with No 1 PRU. On March 4 he was detailed to photograph the Renault works near Paris, attacked by the RAF the previous night. Despite bad weather, low cloud and poor visibility he succeeded in obtaining valuable photographs. For this operation he was awarded the DFC (2.6.42). Ricketts failed to return from a PR sortie to Strasbourg and Ingolstadt on July 12 1942. He was flying in Mosquito B Mk lV W 4089 with Pilot Officer G B Lukhmanoff, DFM, who was also lost. Ricketts was 29. He and Lukhmanoff are buried in the Calais Canadian War Cemetery.

PO (AAF) 14.4.38 FO 14.10.39 FL 14.10.40 SL 1.12.41

HUGH JOSEPH RIDDLE 90141

FL

Pilot

British

Born in Buckinghamshire on May 24 1912, Riddle was at Harrow School from 1926 to 1930 and then Magdalen College, Oxford. He joined 601 Squadron, AAF in 1937 and was called to full-time service on August 25 1939. Riddle served with ‘A’ Flight of 601, which went to France in May 1940. After destroying a He 111 on May 19 in an engagement near Arras, he was shot down and wounded. Riddle was reported ‘Missing’ and he rejoined the squadron on the 21st. He damaged a Bf 110 on the 27th. Riddle damaged a Ju 88 on August 13 1940. It was his last flight with 601. In January 1941Riddle was posted to Scotland as a Fighter Sector Controller and did not return to

PO 1.2.40 FO 1.2.41 FL 1.2.42

LEO PATRICK VINCENT JOHN RICKS 552653

Sgt

Wop/AG

Canadian

601 Squadron

235 Squadron

Ricks was born on December 20 1921 in Calgary, Alberta. He went to England in 1938, to join the Royal Navy, but a defect in his left eye made him unacceptable and he joined the RAF instead on September 26 1938, as a Boy Entrant. He later remustered to Airman u/t Wop/AG.

operational flying. Released from the RAF in 1945, as a Squadron Leader, Riddle became well-known as a portrait painter, with members of the Royal Family among his subjects. His work was signed “Huseph Riddle”. After retiring, he went to live in France. Riddle died peacefully at Pierrevert in France on April 16 2009, at the age of 97, after a short illness. He was the elder brother of C J H Riddle.

He joined 235 Squadron at North Coates on April 24 1940 and was with it until February 2 1941, going then to 3 (Coastal) OTU, to instruct. From November 27 1941 until May 15 1942 Ricks was with 2 AACU. He then went to 7 (Coastal) OTU until March 1943, when he joined 86 Squadron, a general reconnaissance unit. After serving with a GCA unit from August 1944, Ricks transferred to the RCAF on February 14 1945 and was repatriated to Canada. He was commissioned and retired from the RCAF in 1964 as a Flying Officer. Ricks went to Ireland to live in January 1969 and he died there on January 8 1985.

PO (AAF) 31.7.37 FO (AAF) 31.3.39 FO 25.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

MARMADUKE RIDLEY 565201

Sgt

Pilot

British

616 Squadron

JOHN DERRICK RIDDELL-HANNAM 54784

Sgt

Wop/AG British

Ridley, of Benwell, Newcastle- upon-Tyne, was educated at Atkinson Road Junior Technical School.

236 Squadron

Born in 1921, Riddell-Hannam enlisted in the RAF in July 1939, as an Aircrafthand u/t Wireless Operator (651416), for six years of regular service. He completed his training in May 1940 and in June he volunteered for aircrew duties.

He joined the RAF in January 1931, as an Aircraft Apprentice, and passed out in December 1933 as a Fitter, Aero Engines. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. At the outbreak of war, Ridley was with ‘D’ Flight, 2 AACU at Eastchurch. He was posted from there to 616 Squadron at Doncaster on September 22 1939. Over Dunkirk on May 28, his Spitfire was badly damaged in what was the squadron’s first significant action of the war and he suffered a head wound. On August 6 1940 Ridley shared in the probable destruction of a Ju 88 and on the 25th he destroyed a Do 17. Next day he was shot down and killed in combat over Dover, possibly by Hauptmann Fözö of 4/JG 51. Ridley was 21. He is buried in Folkestone New Cemetery, Kent.

After gunnery training and conversion to Blenheims at OTU, Riddell-Hannam joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on September 16 1940. In July 1941 he joined 86 Squadron, operating in Beauforts, but in March 1942 he was categorised permanently unfit for aircrew, the result of a head injury sustained in one of his three crashes. In January 1943 Riddell-Hannam volunteered for Combined Operations and he served with 105 Wing in the Mediterranean, taking part in the assault on the island of Pantelleria and the invasions of Sicily and Italy. He was commissioned in the RAF Regiment in June 1944, served with 2837 Squadron and later 2739 Squadron in the Far East. Riddell-Hannam stayed on in the RAF. He retired in January 1955 as a Flight Lieutenant. He later changed his name to Hannam. PO 13.6.44

FO 13.6.45 FL 4.1.51

ROBERT HAROLD RIGBY 42149

PO Pilot

British

236 Squadron

CHRISTOPHER JOHN HENRY RIDDLE 90143

FL

Pilot

British

Rigby was born in Alsager, Cheshire on December 22 1915. He joined the RAF on a short service commission. Rigby began his ab initio course at 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury on March 13 1939, as a pupil pilot. He moved to 5 FTS, Sealand on May 30 and with training completed, he joined 236 Squadron at Stradishall on November 6 1939. The squadron ORB states that he joined from 9 FTS, Hullavington.

601 Squadron

Born in Buckinghamshire on April 4 1914, Riddle was at Harrow School from 1928 to 1931. He joined 601 Squadron, AAF in early 1938 and was called to full-time service in October 1939.

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In the 1930s the family lived in the Wirral, Cheshire, and in 1940 were at Meols. Reginald Rimmer joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 8 1937. He was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on May 9 and with training completed, he joined 66 Squadron at Duxford on November 27 1937. On May 12 1940 Rimmer shared in the destruction of a He 111 just E of The Hague. Over Dunkirk on June 2, he damaged a He 111. He was posted to 229 Squadron at Digby on June 13, as ‘B’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. On September 11 1940 Rimmer was slightly injured in action, with splinters of perspex in the face, after his windscreen was shattered by fire from a Bf 109. On that day he probably destroyed a He 111. On September 15 Rimmer claimed a Do 17 destroyed and shared in the destruction of a He 111. He was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 109s on the 27th. His Hurricane, V 6782, exploded over Franchise Manor Farm, Burwash. Rimmer was 21. He is buried in Grange Cemetery, Hoylake, Cheshire and is remembered on a memorial plaque at the farm, near the crash site. A new plaque was unveiled in 2014. Rimmer’s younger brother, Arthur, was a transport pilot in the RAF and served in the Far East. He was killed in a flying accident in 1948 while still serving.

He failed to return from a photographic-reconnaissance operation over Le Havre on July 18 1940, in Blenheim L 6690. The weather was bad and intense flak was encountered over Cap de la Hague. His gunner, Sergeant D D MacKinnon was also lost. Rigby was 24. He is buried in Ste Marie Cemetery, Le Havre, France. APO 13.5.39 PO 6.11.39

FREDERICK RILEY 42024

PO Pilot

British 236 Squadron

Riley, of Manchester, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 6 1939. He moved on to 12 FTS, Grantham for No 2 Course, which ran from May 15 to November 5 1939. With the course completed, he joined 236 Squadron at Stradishall on November 6 and was with it in the Battle of Britain. Riley was killed on December 7 1942, as a Flight Lieutenant with 542 Squadron, a photographic-reconnaissance Spitfire unit. He was 24 and is buried in Boulogne Eastern Cemetery, France. APO 29.4.39 PO 6.11.39

FO 6.11.40

FL 6.11.41

WILLIAM RILEY 37422

FL

Pilot

British

263, 302 and 145 Squadrons APO 9.5.37 PO 8.3.38 FO 8.11.39 Riley, of Manorhamilton, Co Leitrim, Ireland, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 26 1935, as a pupil pilot.

ERIC ALFRED RINGWOOD 629710

He was posted to 11 FTS, Wittering on November 2 and with training completed, he joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on May 11 1936. Riley went to the Electrical and Wireless School, Cranwell on February 9 1937, as a staff pilot on the Signals Squadron. On December 16 1938 Riley was posted to HQ RAF Far East, Singapore, on the administrative staff, on organisation duties. Back in the UK, Riley was sent to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on November 11 1939 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 610 Squadron at Wittering on December 31 1939. On May 3 1940 Riley was posted to 263 Squadron at Turnhouse and he took part in the squadron’s second foray into Norway, which began on May 21, when its Gladiators flew off HMS Furious to their base at Bardufoss. On the 24th Riley shared in the destruction of a He 111 and on the 26th he destroyed another. He was wounded and, as a consequence, he returned to the UK in a transport. Squadron pilots flew the remaining Gladiators on to HMS Glorious on June 7 which were lost when the carrier was sunk on the 8th by the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau. Riley was posted to 302 Squadron at Leconfield at its formation on July 13, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. On August 21 Riley claimed a Ju 88 probably destroyed. On September 18 Riley took a 302 detachment to Duxford, to operate with the Bader Big Wing and on the 18th he destroyed a Ju 88 and probably a second. The detachment returned to Leconfield on the 25th. On October 15 Riley destroyed a Bf 109. He moved to 145 Squadron at Tangmere on October 30, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. He probably destroyed a Ju 87 on November 7. In early 1941 Riley went to 252 Squadron, Coastal Command, and on April 16 he shot down a FW Kondor, the squadron’s first victory. Soon afterwards 252 went to the Middle East and on May 7 Riley shared in destroying a SM 81 transport near Lampedusa. He was awarded the DFC (31.10.41) at the end of his tour and posted to 201 Group as a Controller. In early April 1942 Riley was attached to 272 Squadron in Egypt, pending his taking command of 227 Squadron, to be formed in Malta. On April 14, whilst escorting Beauforts on a convoy attack, Riley destroyed a Do 17, probably a Bf 110 and damaged a Ju 88, on May 1 destroyed a Ju 52 and on June 14 he damaged a Ju 88. He was himself shot down by flak on the 26th but returned to the squadron the next day. Riley was killed on July 16 1942, as a Wing Commander with 272 Squadron. He collided with another Beaufighter soon after taking off and crashed into the sea. He was 25 and his name is on the Alamein Memorial, Column 247.

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

248 Squadron

Ringwood joined the RAF in December 1938, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG and after completing his training, he had joined 248 Squadron by early May 1940. On May 13, he was flying with Pilot Officer E H McHardy as pilot and Pilot Officer J Morris as observer, when they shared in the destruction of an unidentified enemy aircraft. Ringwood flew his first Battle of Britain sortie on August 6 1940. He was one of the crew of a Blenheim which failed to return from a reconnaissance sortie to the South Norwegian coast on August 27 and is known to have crashed into the sea. Ringwood and Pilot Officer C J Arthur, pilot, were reported ‘Missing’ and the observer, Sergeant R C R Cox, was known to be killed. Ringwood was 20. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 18.

WILLIAM GEORGE RIPLEY 139951

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

604 Squadron

Ripley, of Emsworth, Hampshire, joined the RAFVR in October 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (904571). He completed his training and joined 604 Squadron at Middle Wallop on August 20 1940. He later trained as a Radio Observer and flew with Flying Officer R A Chisholm. On March 13 1941 they destroyed two He 111s at night, on April 9 another two, on the 11th a He 111 and probably a Ju 88, on the 29th a He 111 and on July 8 another He 111 and a second damaged. Ripley was awarded the DFM (13.5.41). Promoted to Warrant Officer on March 1 1942, he was commissioned in January 1943. Ripley died on November 16 1943, of injuries received the previous night when he was in a Mosquito that crashed on take off from Wittering. Flying Officer D F A Welsh was also lost. Ripley was a Flight Lieutenant with 141 Squadron at the time. He was 30 and is buried in Warblington Cemetery, Havant, Hampshire. PO 12.1.43 FO 12.7.43

ANTHONY JOHN RIPPON 42262

APO 21.10.35 PO 26.8.36 FO 26.4.38 FL 26.4.40 SL 1.6.41 WC 1.6.42

PO

Pilot

British

601 Squadron

Born in London in 1918, Rippon joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 6 1939. After completing his training, he was at 12 OTU, Benson, when he was posted to 4 Ferry Pilot Pool on June 21 1940.

REGINALD FRANK RIMMER 39683

FO

Pilot

British

229 Squadron

He arrived from there at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 9 and, after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 601 Squadron on the 26th. In late 1940 Rippon was in the Middle East. He arrived in Malta from there in a Sunderland on January 30 1941 and joined 261 Squadron at Hal Far. On March 5 he destroyed a Ju 87 and shared a Bf 110, on the 9th he shared in damaging a Ju 88, on the 10th probably destroyed a Bf 110, on the 23rd claimed two Ju 87s destroyed, on April 20th shared a Ju 88 and on May 9 he shared a Ju 87.

Rimmer was born on February 6 1919 at Ormskirk, Lancashire. He was the son of Lancelot Rimmer, a First World War pilot, who later flew with Alan Cobham’s Flying Circus. In the mid-thirties Mr Rimmer began a business, giving pleasure flights in an Avro 504K from beaches along the Welsh coast and from suitable fields in Cheshire. During the war he was test-flying new aircraft, manufactured at Speke.

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Rippon returned to the Middle East in May 1941 and he later served at the ADU, Takoradi. He was killed on August 25 1944, as a Flight Lieutenant with 107 Squadron, operating in Mosquitos from Lasham. Rippon is buried in Ouroux-sur-Saone Communal Cemetery, France. An award of the DFC (5.9.44) was gazetted after his death. The citation credited him with the destruction of five enemy aircraft. A monument was erected at the crash site in 1994.

IAN SMALL RITCHIE

APO 10.6.39 PO 18.11.39

He was called up to full-time service on August 23 1939. On January 10 1940 Ritchie and three other pilots were detached to Montrose, for convoy protection duties. He rejoined the squadron at Prestwick on the 14th. He was again detached on February 19 1940, this time to RAF Turnhouse, for Ops duties. He rejoined 603 on March 1. Ritchie shared in destroying a Ju 88 on July 3 1940 and shared in the destruction of a He 111 on the 16th. He was wounded in combat with Bf 109s off Dover on August 28 and returned to Hornchurch in his severely-damaged Spitfire, R 6989. He was admitted to Oldchurch Hospital, Romford and returned to the squadron on September 5. Ritchie was promoted to Squadron Leader on December 1 1941 and in 1944 he was commanding the University Air Squadron at St Andrews. He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Wing Commander and returned to practicing as a solicitor. He maintained close contacts with 603 Squadron and with his war-time friends until his death in 1987.

FO 18.11.40

90198

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

FL 18.2.42

600 Squadron

Born on June 7 1914 at Rotherhithe, London, Riseley went into a hotel apprenticeship. He joined 600 Squadron, AAF at Hendon in 1934, as a trainee Fitter, Aero Engines (800360). After a year of evening classes at Armoury House, he took a trade test, passed and was promoted to LAC. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner, flying in Harts and Demons from Hendon. After qualifying, Riseley was promoted to Corporal. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939 and later promoted to Sergeant. On May 10 1940 Riseley shared in the probable destruction of a He 111 off the Belgian coast. After making many applications for pilot training Riseley was selected and early in 1941 he went to No 1 ITW at Downing College, Cambridge, then to 22 EFTS, Cambridge for his ab initio course. He moved on to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth and was commissioned in September 1941, at the end of the course. Riseley asked for night fighters and was posted to 51 OTU, Cranfield. He converted to Bostons and joined 418 (RCAF) Squadron at Debden at its formation on November 15 1941. The British crews were gradually replaced by Canadians and at the end of 1942 Riseley was posted to 88 Squadron at Oulton, on daylight Bostons. On August 16 1943 the squadron went to raid the marshalling yards at Valenciennes. Riseley’s aircraft was hit by flak before reaching the target and he had lost one engine. After bombing, he went down to low- level for the return flight and was shot down by Bf 109s in the Pas de Calais area. He crash-landed in a field, with his crew of two injured. They managed to reach a small wood. Riseley left them and went to a farmhouse, where he was given civilian clothes and sent on. French people went out to the injured crew. Riseley evaded capture, lived on roots and was given food at a farmhouse. After a few days he met an expatriate Englishman, who had stayed on in 1918 and owned a café. Riseley was taken to a miliner’s shop, where he was joined by his gunner. The navigator had been captured. They hid at the shop for several weeks, eventually went to Amiens station and took a train to Paris. From there they went south, returned to Paris, and then took a train to Vannes and ended up in Brest, where they were nearly caught. They eventually got away in a fishing boat and after thirty-six hours at sea reached Penzance on October 25 1943. Riseley rejoined the squadron at Swanton Morley. In December he was posted to HQ 2 Group at Wallingford, as an Operations Controller. He was awarded the DSO (14.1.44). Riseley went to 2nd TAF, Brussels later in 1944, moved to Osnabruck in 1945 and finally to Guterslöh, to prepare for the arrival of the RAF. He was released from the RAF on April 1 1946 as a Squadron Leader. During his service Riseley received a Mention in Despatches. He died in 1992.

Pilot

British

603 Squadron

JOHN MILLAR RITCHIE 79193

PO

Air Gunner

British

141 Squadronn

Ritchie was born on May 19 1911. He joined the RAFVR in April 1940, with a commission as a direct-entry Air Gunner. With training completed, he arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 14 1940 and after converting to Defiants, he joined 141 Squadron at Turnhouse on July 8. He was posted away on August 30, to be Gunnery Leader with 307 Squadron, then about to be formed at Kirton-in-Lindsey with Defiants, as the first Polish night-fighter squadron. Ritchie stayed on in the RAF after the war and retired on January 20 1959 as a Squadron Leader. APO 20.4.40 PO 13.5.40 FO 13.5.41 FL 13.5.42 SL 1.8.47

JAMES RITCHIE RITCHIE 41781

PO

Pilot

British

600, 111 and 72 Squadrons

Born on June 4 1920, Ritchie joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on January 23 1939, as a pupil pilot, at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield. He moved on to 11 FTS, Shawbury. With training completed, he arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on October 24 1939 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on November 20. Ritchie joined 600 Squadron at Northolt on May 20 1940 and moved to 111 Squadron at Debden on August 24. On the 31st he probably destroyed a Do 17 and on September 2 he shared in probably destroying a He 111. Ritchie joined 72 Squadron at Croydon on September 11. He flew no operational sorties with 72 up to the end of 1940. He commanded 132 Squadron from May 1942 to August 1943. He instructed at 58 OTU, Grangemouth and later went to a staff post in India. He was awarded the AFC (13.6.46). Ritchie retired from the RAF on June 3 1972, as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander.

GEOFFREY LOUIS RITCHER FO

British

PO (AAF) 15.2.38 FO 23.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

PO 3.9.41 FO 3.9.42 FL 3.9.43

41209

Pilot

Ritchie was born in 1910, gained a law degree at Edinburgh University and afterwards worked for a firm of solicitors in Edinburgh. He joined 603 Squadron, AAF in December 1937 and began his ab initio training, as a pupil pilot.

ARTHUR HARRY RISELEY 106080

FL

234 Squadron

Ritcher joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 25 1938. His pre-war service details are unknown but he may have been an instructor before going to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940.

APO 1.4.39 SL 1.1.68

PO 6.11.39

FO 6.11.40

FL 1.3.42

SL 1.7.45

FL 1.12.42

SL 1.7.53

ROBERT DOUGLAS RITCHIE After converting to Spitfires, he joined 234 Squadron at St Eval on September 18. He damaged a Ju 88 on October 28 and destroyed another on November 29. Ritcher was posted away to 53 OTU, Heston in December 1940, as an instructor. He was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Squadron Leader.

745702

Sgt

Pilot British

605 Squadron

Ritchie was born in Fife and he joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 14 FTS, Kinloss on No 5 Course, from February 12 to June 15 1940. He joined 605 Squadron at Drem on June 19th. During a section patrol off the East coast on August 9 1940, Ritchie called up, reporting that he had a glycol leak and the fumes were making him drowsy.

APO 17.9.38 PO 25.7.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.44

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he destroyed a Bf 110, on the 24th he destroyed a Bf 109 and on September 2 he destroyed another Bf 109 and damaged two Do 17s. Robbins was posted to 66 Squadron at Gravesend on September 11. Three days later Robbins was shot down in combat over Maidstone, in Spitfire X 4327. He was admitted to Leeds Castle Military Hospital, suffering from shock. On the 14th he was posted to RAF Biggin Hill, as non-effective sick. The date of his rejoining 66 Squadron is not known. Commissioned in October 1943, Robbins was released from the RAF in 1947 as a Flight Lieutenant.

He crashed into the sea one mile off Dunbar, East Lothian, in Hurricane L 2103, breaking his neck. His body was picked up by the fishing vessel Eunmara. He was 24. His uncle, Company Quartermaster-Sergeant D Ritchie, died on January 15 1916, aged 30. He was serving with the Army Service Corps. Both men are buried in Leslie Cemetery, Fife.

THOMAS GLYN FINLAYSON RITCHIE 73010

PO

Pilot

British

602 Squadron PO 24.10.43 FO 24.4.44 FL 24.4.45

Ritchie, of Dunbartonshire, joined the RAFVR about July 1937 as an Airman u/t Pilot (740515). He carried out his pre-war training at 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick.

ARTHUR JOHN ALAN ROBERTS 45717

He completed his training and was commissioned in March 1939. Called to full-time service at the outbreak of war, Ritchie joined 602 Squadron at Drem on November 26 1939. On August 15 1940 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17, on the 19th he destroyed a Ju 88. On the 23rd he returned to Westhampnett with damage caused by colliding with another RAF fighter in cloud. Ritchie destroyed a Bf 110 on August 25 and on September 6 he was wounded in the legs, in combat with Bf 109s over Hailsham and was admitted to Chichester Hospital. He flew no further sorties in September and October 1940. In March 1941 Ritchie was commanding ‘A’ Flight. On July 21 the squadron escorted three Stirlings to attack a target at Lille. On the way in they were jumped by Bf 109s and Ritchie was shot down and killed. Ritchie is buried in Reninghelst churchyard extension, Belgium.

Pilot

British

British

9 Squadron

With training completed, Roberts joined 66 Squadron at Duxford from 3 FTS, South Cerney on November 19 1939. He arrived at 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on December 11 1939 and after converting to Blenheims, he joined 29 Squadron at Debden on January 12 1940. On August 22 1940 his Blenheim was struck by lightning during an RDF trial flight. He and Pilot Officer P A Tomlinson returned to Digby, unhurt. In the evening of October 13 Roberts damaged an unidentified enemy aircraft near Henlow. On October 29 Roberts struck a tree, taking off in Blenheim L 1503. He was again unhurt. Commissioned in April 1941, Roberts was with 600 Squadron in 1942 and went with it to North Africa in November. He shot a SM 84 down into the sea four miles N of Monastir and also destroyed a Cant Z 1007 during the night of April 26/27. On July 19/20 Roberts destroyed a Ju 88 N of Syracuse. He was awarded the DFC (20.8.43), as a Flying Officer with 600. The citation credited him with three enemy aircraft destroyed. Roberts retired from the RAF on December 23 1957 as a Squadron Leader. He died on April 26 2009.

ROBERT JAMES BAIN ROACH PO

Pilot

Born on December 23 1915, Roberts was educated at Fleet Road Central School, Hampstead. He joined the RAF in January 1932, as an Aircraft Apprentice (565949) and passed out in December 1934 as a Metal Rigger. He later applied for pilot training and was selected.

PO (RAFVR) 29.3.39 PO 1.9.39 FO 26.11.40

42263

Sgt

266 Squadron

Born on October 25 1919, Roach joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 1 1939, as a pupil pilot. He moved on to 8 FTS, Montrose, for No 12 Course, which ran from July 10 to December 9 1939. He joined 266 Squadron at Sutton Bridge on December 10.

PO 24.4.41 FO 24.4.42 FL 24.4.43 SL 1.8.47

DAVID FRANCIS ROBERTS 965482

He shared in the destruction of a He 115 floatplane and damaged a Bf 109 on August 15 1940, probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 16th and shared a Do 17 on September 7. After being hit by return fire from a He 111 on the 11th, Roach baled out over Billericay, from Spitfire N 3244, unhurt. On this day he probably destroyed a He 111. Roach retired from the RAF on October 25 1965, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. He died in 1994.

Pilot

British

DAVID NEAL ROBERTS 16229

ROBERT HORLEY ROBBINS British

Pilot

British

609 Squadron

On graduation on July 29 1926, with a Permanent Commission, he joined 39 Squadron at Grantham on July 30, to fly DH 9s and Westland Wapitis. Roberts was sent to CFS, Wittering in September 1928, for an instructors’ course and he then joined the instructing staff at 2 FTS, Digby on December 19. He was posted to 504 Squadron, AAF at Hucknall on August 18 1930 as Flying Instructor. On October 5 1931 Roberts went to King’s College, London University for a Russian language course, followed by a special language leave for one year in Estonia, after which he passed out as a Russian interpreter. After a refresher course at CFS, Wittering in early 1933, Roberts joined 41 Squadron at Northolt on March 17, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. In early 1935 he was posted to RAF Amman, Jordan, as Station Adjutant and on July 24

PO 24.8.40

Pilot

WC

Roberts was born on June 4 1906. He was educated at Imperial Service College, London and entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1924 as a Flight Cadet.

He was commissioned on the 24th, arrived at No 1(C)OTU, Silloth on August 28 and after further training he joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on September 26 1940. Robb’s commission was terminated on September 24 1942.

Sgt

25 Squadron

236 Squadron

Robb joined the RAFVR in June 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741682). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 14 FTS, Cranfield, on No 8 Course, which ran from May 25 to August 23 1940.

161726

British

He completed his training and was with 235 Squadron at North Coates on March 31 1940. He moved to 25 Squadron at North Weald on May 25 1940 and was promoted to Sergeant in June. Roberts was killed on April 3 1941, in Beaufighter X7541. He was then a Flight Sergeant Radar Operator, still with 25 Squadron. The aircraft stalled on a landing approach at Wittering and spun in. The pilot, Sergeant H I Maxwell, was also killed. Roberts was 32 years old and is buried in All Saints’ churchyard, Wittering, Northamptonshire.

ROBERT ANDREW LINDSAY ROBB PO

Air Gunner

Roberts, of Penylan, Glamorgan, joined the RAFVR in September 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner.

APO 24.6.39 PO 9.12.39 FO 9.3.41 FL 9.3.42 FL 1.9.45

86626

Sgt

54 and 66 Squadrons

Robbins was born in 1915. He joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748032). Called up on September 1, he completed his elementary flying training at 15 EFTS, Redhill. He moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 18 Course, from February 1 to July 6 1940. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 6, converted to Spitfires and joined 54 Squadron at the end of July 1940. On August 15 Robbins damaged two Do 17s, on the 18th

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North Luffenham, where he joined an all-officer crew in Wellingtons, as a rear gunner. The crew was posted to 9 Conversion Unit and was augmented by a Flight Engineer and Mid-Upper Gunner. Roberts did further training at 485 Bombing and Gunnery Flight at Fulbeck, Lincolnshire. He returned to his crew on December 6 1942. They converted from Manchesters to Lancasters and on January 17 1943 took part in a 1000 bomber raid on Berlin, with their captain, Flying Officer Windsor, flying as second pilot. On February 4 they joined 106 Squadron at Syerston. Windsor was obliged to fly one further trip as second pilot before he could take his own crew on a raid. He went on a raid to Nuremberg, with a crew flying their 50th operation, the last trip of their second tour. They failed to return. Roberts’ crew was taken over by Squadron Leader P Ward-Hunt, who was on his second tour. Their first trip together was on March 1 1943, to Berlin. When Ward-Hunt finished his tour, the crew acquired a new skipper, Flying Officer Hartley, beginning his second tour. Commissioned in May 1943, Roberts completed his tour on August 27 with a Nuremberg raid. The crew split up but the mid-upper gunner was asked to carry out one further operation, a low-level attack on the Dortmund-Ems Canal, with 617 Squadron. His aircraft was shot down. Roberts was posted to RAF Balderton on September 17 1943, to help form 5 Group Lancaster Finishing School, to convert Halifax, Stirling and Wellington crews on to Lancasters. In November 5 LFS moved to Syerston and Roberts remained there until the school was disbanded in 1945. On November 5 he went to Waddington to start up a Night Vision School but this was closed down in February 1946. Roberts was released from the RAF in August 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He received a Mention in Despatches (18.6.44).

he went to 4 FTS, Abu Sueir as Flying Instructor and Flight Commander. He was awarded the AFC (9.6.38). Whilst on leave from Egypt in 1938, Roberts was posted to the Air Staff at HQ Fighter Command, on October 8. On June 11 1940 he was given the job of forming and then commanding the Fighter Station and Sector at Middle Wallop. During the period of the Battle of Britain he flew one sortie with 609 Squadron, thus qualifying for the Battle of Britain clasp. Made an OBE (24.9.41), Roberts was posted overseas in November 1941, to command a fighter wing for special operations in North Africa. When the war with Japan started, he was diverted to the Dutch East Indies. Roberts was evacuated to India in early 1942, where he commanded the fighter defences for Calcutta and Eastern India. He later commanded RAF Assam. In 1943 Roberts was posted to Moscow, as Air Attaché and Head of the UK Air Mission. He returned to the UK in 1945 and was appointed Assistant SASO at HQ Transport Command. Later in the year he went to 45 Group, Dorval, Canada. Roberts was made CBE (1.1.54) and retired from the RAF on May 29 1958 as an Air Commodore. He died in October 2000. PO 30.7.26 FO 30.1.28 FL 30.6.31 SL 1.4.37 WC 1.3.40 GC 1.6.42 GC 1.10.46 AC 1.1.51

ELWYN COOPER ROBERTS 52544

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

23 Squadron

Roberts joined the RAF in May 1939, as an Aircrafthand (644450). He later remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG and after training, he was posted to a Battle squadron at RAF Benson in November. In May 1940 he went to 23 Squadron at Wittering and was promoted to Sergeant.

PO 11.5.43 FO 11.11.43 FL 11.5.45

GEORGE WILLIAM ROBERTS Midshipman (FAA)

In October 1940 Roberts was posted to 99 Squadron, operating in Wellingtons from Newmarket. With his tour completed in June 1941, he went to 27 OTU, Lichfield, as an instructor. Commissioned in February 1942, Roberts was posted as a signals instructor to RAF Wigtown, later becoming Chief Signals Instructor. He was seconded to BOAC in 1945 and resigned his commission in 1947 to join the Corporation.

Radar Operator

British

808 Squadron

He embarked with the squadron in HMS Ark Royal on October 22 1940 and served with it in the actions in the Mediterranean in 1941. On October 11 1941 Roberts was posted to 800 Squadron in HMS Indomitable. He later served at Macrihanish and then went to HMS Khedive on December 31 1943, for air gunnery duties. Roberts was killed on May 30 1946, whilst serving with HMS Vulture. He was 25 and is buried in St Merryn churchyard, Cornwall.

GEORGE WILLIAM ROBERTS AC 1

British

Roberts, of Woking, entered the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on May 1 1939, rated as a Midshipman. He joined 808 Squadron at Wick on July 8 1940, flying Fulmars on dockyard defence.

PO 4.2.42 FO 4.8.42 FL 4.2.44

52310

Pilot

23 Squadron

Roberts was born on October 20 1915 at Queensbury, near Bradford, the son of a Police Officer in the West Riding Constabulary. He was educated at Thornton Grammar School and after leaving he went to work on the electrical staff at a local colliery, studying part-time at Doncaster Technical College.

Midshipman 1.5.39 Actg Sub-Lt 20.11.40 Sub-Lt 7.11.41 Lt 20.5.43

RALPH ROBERTS 90897

FO

Pilot

British

615 and 64 Squadrons

In March 1939 Roberts joined 616 Squadron, AAF at Doncaster. He was accepted for pilot training and commissioned in May.

In 1938 Roberts applied to join the West Riding Constabulary, was accepted and was due to report to Wakefield Police Training College after Christmas. He had second thoughts and enlisted in the RAF at Leeds on October 18 1938, as an Aircrafthand (623610). He went to West Drayton, passed an electrical trade test and then reported to the Recruits Training Establishment at South Cerney. In January 1939 Roberts started a one year course at the Electrical Engineering College at RAF Henlow but at the outbreak of war he was posted to 7 Squadron at Upper Heyford, on plant and aircraft maintenance. Roberts applied for a Wireless and Electrical Mechanics’ course (Grade 1) and was posted to Martlesham Heath, on what turned out to be the first AI course, for operatormechanics. The object was to train the eleven men on the course as operators for posting to night fighter squadrons, where they would maintain the sets during the day and operate them at night on operational patrols. On January 19 1940 Roberts joined 601 Squadron at Tangmere but when its Blenheims were replaced by Hurricanes, he moved to 600 Squadron at Manston on March 3. He was posted to 23 Squadron at Wittering on June 10 1940. Roberts flew his first operational sortie on August 12 1940, a patrol. He served with 23 throughout the Battle of Britain and when the squadron went over to night intruder duties at the end of 1940, he was posted to 85 Squadron at Debden. Still an AC 1, he applied for Sergeant rank. In the meantime he had applied for pilot or air gunnery training. On May 20 1941 Roberts was sent to 2 School of Air Navigation at Cranage. After passing out, he rejoined 85, then at Hunsdon. He was posted to a gunnery course on December 18 1941, went to 3 ITW, Hastings and reached 2 AGS, Dalcross on June 6 1942, training with Defiants. When he passed out on July 17, Roberts at last was given the rank of Sergeant. On the 23rd he went to 29 OTU,

Roberts was called to full-time service on August 24 1939 and was awarded his wings in September. He was posted to 11 Group Pool at St Athan on November 25, where he converted to Hurricanes. He then joined No 2 Ferry Pilot Pool at Filton on December 21, pending a squadron posting, meanwhile ferrying a Hurricane to a front-line squadron in France. In late December Roberts was posted to 615 Squadron in France and joined it at Vitryen-Artois on January 1 1940. He informed the CO that he had expected to go to 616 Squadron and was told that it would be arranged but that it would take time. Roberts flew Gladiators in France until operations ceased there and 615 was withdrawn to Kenley on May 20 1940. On the 23rd ‘G’ Flight 615 was formed at Kenley, with six Gladiators, Roberts included. It moved immediately to Manston, where it was attached to 604 Squadron for operations. It returned to Kenley on May 30 and was disbanded, Roberts did patrols over Dunkirk in Gladiators, operating from Manston. The squadron, which had lost its new Hurricanes in France, was re-equipped with replacements at Kenley in June and Roberts continued to fly with 615 until the end of July. He was then informed that his posting to 616 had finally come through but pending ratification from Group, he was temporarily attached to 64 Squadron, also at Kenley on August 10, which was short of pilots. On August 13 Roberts damaged a Do 17. Two days later he was shot down over Calais Marck and captured. At some time he was held in Stalag 3 at Sagan and Belaria (PoW No 1252). Freed in May 1945, Roberts was released from the RAF on March 9 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1994. APO 15.5.39 APO 24.8.39 PO 4.9.39 FO 4.9.40 FL 4.9.41

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BASIL LIONEL ROBERTSON 748333

Sgt

Pilot

British

On October 30 Robinson probably destroyed a Bf 109. He was posted away to CFS, Cranwell on December 8 1940, possibly for an instructors’ course. He commanded 501 Squadron, September 1942 to May 1943. Robinson was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1958.

54 Squadron

Robertson, of Portslade, Sussex, joined the RAFVR in May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down in early August 1940.

APO 8.3.37 PO 21.12.37 FO 21.6.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

He converted to Spitfires and joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 18, making his first flight with it on the 20th, a formation practice. He was killed on February 12 1942, as a Warrant Officer with 137 Squadron, operating in Whirlwinds from Matlask. Robertson was 20 years old. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 73.

DENIS NORMAN ROBINSON 60515

Sgt

Pilot

British

152 Squadron

Robinson was born on June 24 1918 at Christchurch, Dorset and was educated at the Stationers’ Company School in London.

FREDERICK NEAL ROBERTSON 119881

Sgt

Pilot

British

He joined the RAFVR in March 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741360) and began his training at 21 E&RFTS, Stapleford, later continuing at 26 E&RFTS, Oxford and 22 E&RFTS, Cambridge. Called to full-time service in October 1939, Robinson, who had completed his training, was posted to CFS, Upavon for an instructor’s course. He then went to 14 FTS, Kinloss on November 15 1939, moved to 14 FTS, Cranfield on April 19 1940, went to 6 EFTS, Sywell on May 24 and finally to 11 EFTS, Perth on June 11. Robinson was posted to 152 Squadron at Acklington on June 21 1940. He damaged a Bf 109 on July 25. He was shot down by Bf 109s of II/JG 53 off Swanage on August 8, in Spitfire K 9894. Robinson decided against baling out and made a crash-landing in a field near Wareham. He was unhurt but the aircraft was a write-off. On August 13 he destroyed a Bf 109. On September 26 Robinson was posted away to CFS, Upavon and from October 7 he was instructing at 6 FTS, Little Rissington. Commissioned in January 1941, he remained there until November 17 1941, when he was sent to instruct in Canada, firstly at 39 SFTS, Swift Current, then briefly at 35 SFTS, North Battleford and finally at 32 OTU, Patricia Bay until June 19 1944, when he was posted away to return to the UK. Robinson went to 109 OTU, Crosby on August 27, to convert to transport aircraft and on March 1 1945 he was seconded to BOAC at Whitchurch. He was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. Robinson then joined BOAC, later flying for British Caledonian and British Island Airways before retiring in 1978.

66 Squadron

Robertson, of Lockerly, Hampshire joined the RAFVR about September 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740630). Mobilised on September 2 1939, he was then posted on loan to 769 (FAA) Squadron at Donibristle, where he flew Gladiators and Swordfishes and practiced carrier landings on HMS Furious. On October 30 1939 Robertson went to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down, for further training. He converted to Spitfires, after which he joined 66 Squadron at Duxford on December 16 1939. Over Dunkirk on June 2 1940, he destroyed a Bf 109. Immediately afterwards his Spitfire was hit by flak, making it uncontrollable. Robertson baled out and landed on a beach five miles W of Dunkirk. He managed to get on one of the last boats to leave. Robertson shared in destroying a Do 17 on July 10. He was posted away on July 18, to join a group of pilots at Uxbridge. They were flown to Hullavington, picked up Hurricanes, flew them to Abbotsinch and there embarked in the carrier HMS Argus, where they were joined by four more officers . They were told their destination was Malta and that they were now attached to 418 Flight. The Argus sailed on July 23, arrived at Gibraltar and sailed for Malta on July 31. At dawn on August 2 they flew off to Luqa. On the 3rd the pilots were fomally posted to 418 Flight. On August 16 418 Flight combined with the Malta Fighter Flight, to become 261 Squadron. Robertson damaged a CR 42 on the 20th, probably destroyed a Mc 200 on September 25, damaged a Mc 200 on October 4, damaged a CR 42 on November 23, destroyed a SM 79 on the 28th, destroyed a SM 79 at night on December 18, destroyed a Ju 87, a CR 42 and probably two others on January 19 1941, destroyed a CR 42 and damaged a SM 79 on February 1 and destroyed a Ju 88 on the 4th. During the night of February 8/9 1941, Robertson damaged a Ju 88, on the 25th damaged a Do 17, on March 5 destroyed a Ju 88 and a Bf 109, on the 16th damaged a Bf 110 and on the 23rd he destroyed two Ju 87s. In this engagement, he was hit by return fire and his Hurricane, V 7495, was set alight. Robertson baled out and landed in a field near Luqa. He was awarded the DFM (18.3.41). Robertson was rested at the end of April 1941 and returned to the UK, via Cairo. He instructed at 60 OTU and 54 OTU. Commissioned in March 1942, he was posted to 219 Squadron at Tangmere. Robertson later served with 153 Squadron at Portreath. In April 1943 he joined 96 Squadron at Honiley. He was killed on August 31 1943, as a Flying Officer with 96, when he collided with a USAAF B 17 at night near Norwich. Sergeant B E Dye (qv) was also killed. Robertson was 25 and he is buried in Cambridge City Cemetery. All but two of the crew of the B 17 were killed.

PO 15.1.41 FO 1.11.41 FL 1.11.42

GERALD ROBINSON 43261

Pilot

British

British

264 Squadron

Later promoted to LAC, Robinson applied for and was selected for air gunner training in late 1939. He was posted to RAF Penrhos in February 1940 for a gunnery course and after qualifying, he was commissioned on April 7. He was posted to 78 (Training) Squadron at Linton-onOuse. Shortly afterwards he volunteered for Defiants and joined 264 Squadron at Duxford on June 9 1940. On August 24 Robinson was gunner in Defiant L 7013, which was attacked by Bf 109s over Thanet and badly damaged. The pilot, Flight Lieutenant E W Campbell-Colquhoun, made a forced-landing at Manston after Verey cartridges exploded in the cockpit. Both men were unhurt. Robinson went to 307 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on October 20 1940, as Gunnery Liaison Officer. In 1941 he was posted to 85 Squadron at Debden, later qualified as a Radio Observer at RAF Prestwick and then joined 141 Squadron at Ayr, on Beaufighters. In 1942 Robinson came off operational flying and went to RAF Manby for a Long Armament Course, shortened from the peace-time eighteen months to six months. On completion of the course, he was posted to 55 OTU, Annan, as Station Armament Officer. The unit had Hurricanes fitted with some of the first rockets. It was later expanded and moved to Aston Down, with Typhoons and Tempests. For his work on rockets, which had such a major impact during the invasion of Europe, Robinson was made an MBE (1.1.45). At the war’s end he was sent to the Far East and served in India and Java. Robinson was released from the RAF in late 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He rejoined in 1951, as a Pay Accountant, with the rank of Sergeant Instructor. Robinson passed the Civil Service examination in 1955 as an Executive Officer and left the RAF. He was a Civil Servant from then until his retirement in 1980.

ANDREW IAN ROBINSON FL

Air Gunner

Born on September 16 1920, Robinson left school in September 1936 and then joined the RAF on October 28, as an Apprentice Clerk (591179), at the RAF Records Office at Ruislip. In October 1938 he qualified as an AC 1 Accounts Clerk and went to HQ Fighter Command at Bentley Priory.

PO 30.3.42 FO 1.10.42

39569

PO

222 Squadron

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on December 21 1936. After completing his training, Robinson joined 19 Squadron at Duxford on October 23 1937. He was detached to Sutton Bridge from February 6 to 24 1939 for an Air Firing Instructors’ Course. Robinson was posted away on March 6 1940 as sick, with appendicitis. He rejoined 19 on April 26. He joined 222 Squadron at Digby on May 17 1940, as ‘B’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. In early 1940 Robinson was with 222 Squadron at Duxford. Over Dunkirk on June 1, he destroyed a Bf 110 and may have shared in the destruction of a He 111. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on August 30 and he destroyed Bf 109s on August 31 and September 2. On this day Robinson made a forced-landing back at Hornchurch, wounded in the leg, after a head-on attack on a Bf 110. His next sortie was on the 4th.

PO 7.4.40 FO 7.4.41 FL 7.7.42

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JAMES ROBINSON 47845

Sgt

Pilot

British

FTSs. Robinson moved to HQ 23 Group in August, as SASO, Group Captain Postings. He was released from the RAF in February 1946, reformed 602 Squadron, AAF in September and commanded it until September 1 1951. He was created a CB (31.5.56). Robinson died on March 23 1998.

111 Squadron

Robinson was educated at Hyde County Secondary School. He joined the RAF in September 1930, as an Aircraft Apprentice (564979) and passed out in August 1933, as a Fitter, Aero Engines. He later applied for pilot training and was selected.

PO (AAF) 8.5.34 FO (AAF) 8.11.35 FL (AAF) 5.2.38 FL 24.8.39 SL 1.6.40 WC 1.3.42 SL (AAF) 1.8.46

MAURICE WILBRAHAM SANDFORD ROBINSON

With training completed, he was with 111 Squadron at Northolt on August 31 1939. Over Dunkirk on May 31 1940, he destroyed a Ju 88, was wounded in the ankle by return fire and made a forcedlanding at Manston. He was non effective sick and supernumerary at RAF North Weald from May 31 to July 18, when he rejoined 111 Squadron. On the 28th Robinson shared in destroying a He 59, shot down into the Channel, whilst it was on a search and rescue operation for ditched German aircrews. Robinson was again non-effective sick from July 31 1940 and he had not rejoined 111 Squadron by November 1940. He was not a casualty. Commissioned in January 1942, Robinson was awarded the AFC (8.6.44) and released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on July 2 1956.

26189

Pilot

British

1 Squadron

Robinson, of Colwyn Bay, was educated at Oundle School and Christ’s College, Cambridge, where he read Engineering. He was a member of the University Air Squadron and was called to full-time service and commissioned on October 3 1939. Robinson completed his flying training at RAF College FTS, Cranwell on No 11 Course, which ran from June 8 to September 6 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 7. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to No 1 Squadron at Wittering in the 28th. He shared in damaging a Do 17 on October 27 1940 and shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on the 29th. Robinson damaged a Bf 109 over Maidstone on April 21 1941 and on May 11 he intercepted a He 111 over Redhill, silenced the gunner and claimed the enemy bomber as probably destroyed. On May 21 1941 Robinson was reported ‘Missing’. He was attacked by two Bf 109s over the Channel and never seen again. He was 23 and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 30. Robinson’s portrait was drawn by Cuthbert Orde. PO 3.10.39 FO 3.10.40

MARCUS ROBINSON 90161

SL

Pilot

British

British

73 Squadron

He joined 60 Squadron at Kohat, India on April 4 1932 and after returning to the UK, he went on to the staff at 3 FTS, Grantham on October 22 1934. Robinson was posted to 24 (Communications) Squadron at Hendon on April 22 1936 and rejoined 111 Squadron at Northolt on September 28 1938, as a Flight Commander. Promoted to Squadron Leader, Robinson took command of 29 Squadron at Debden on December 1 1938 and led it until February 1939. On February 13 1939 he was posted to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting. He joined 8 B&GS, to command, with the rank of Acting Wing Commander. Robinson relinquished this acting rank and reverted to Squadron Leader on April 22 1940. He was posted from 8 B&GS to 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 10 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, Robinson joined 73 Squadron at Church Fenton on July 31, as a supernumerary. He assumed command of 73 on August 10 but relinquished this post on the same day, on the return of Squadron Leader J W C More. This quick reversal came about when More, who had been posted to HQ 9 Group, arrived there and found his new post not available for several weeks. So he was detached temporarily back to 73 Squadron and he re-assumed command on a temporary basis. Robinson remained with the squadron, as a supernumerary. He re-assumed command of 73 on September 5 when More again departed. Robinson destroyed a Ju 88 and probably two others on August 15 and probably destroyed a He 111 on September 5. On this day he made a forced-landing at Wallasea Yacht Club, near Rochford, after his Hurricane, P 2815,sustained damage in combat over Burnham. Two days later Robinson destroyed a Bf 110, on the 11th another and on September 14 he was shot down in a combat in the Tonbridge area. He baled out, wounded and was admitted to the Kent and Sussex Hospital, Tunbridge Wells. The surgeon there was unable to save the sight of his wounded right eye. He was posted to RAF Debden, as a supernumerary, non-effective sick. Robinson was posted away from 73 on September 26 1940. He received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.42). In mid-1942 he was SASO at HQ 81 Group and in early 1943 was OC RAF Northolt, as an Acting Group Captain. Robinson flew on operational sorties with Polish squadrons stationed there. On May 4 1943 he was with 316 Squadron on a Fortress-escort and was involved in an action with German fighters. On another occasion he attacked a Fw 190. For these and other actions Robinson was awarded the KW (10.3.44). The citation stated that ‘he displayed great courage and was an example to the remaining pilots, in spite of his advanced age and possessing the sight of only one eye’. He was awarded a Polish pilot’s flying badge in June 1943. Robinson was made a CBE (2.6.43). From April to June 1945 he was Station Commander at Biggin Hill. He retired from the RAF on March 1 1958 as an Air Commodore. He died on April 2 1977.

JAMES CLIFTON EDMESTON ROBINSON FO

Pilot

Born on September 20 1910, Robinson was educated at Liverpool College. He entered RAF College, Cranwell on January 10 1929, as a Flight Cadet. Whilst there he represented the College in Rugby and Shooting. He graduated on December 19 1930, with a Permanent Commission and he joined 111 Fighter Squadron at Hornchurch on the 20th.

PO 2.1.42 FO 2.8.42 FL 2.1.44

74710

SL

616 Squadron Born on May 27 1912, Robinson joined 602 Squadron, AAF in September 1933. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander in June 1938 and was called to full-time service on August 24 1939.

Robinson attacked Ju 88s over the Firth of Forth on October 16 and shared in the destruction of a He 111 on January 13 1940. He was attached to RAF Turnhouse from April 11 to 19 1940, for Controller duties. He joined 616 Squadron at Leconfield on April 27, as a supernumerary. He assumed command of 616 on May 1 and was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader on May 6. The squadron went south to Rochford on the 27th and over Dunkirk the next day Robinson’s aircraft was severely damaged by a Bf 109 and he made a forced-landing at Manston, writing the aircraft off. He damaged a Bf 109 in the vicinity of Dunkirk on June 1. On August 6 he shared in the probable destruction of a Ju 88, on the 15th he probably destroyed a Ju 88 and on September 1 he damaged a Bf 109. Robinson was relieved of his command on September 3 and he remained as a supernumerary until the 12th, when he went to No 1FTS, Leuchars as an instructor. He was awarded the AFC (30.9.41). In March 1942 he was promoted to Wing Commander and posted as Chief Instructor to 15(P) AFU, Leconfield. Awarded a Bar to the AFC (1.1.44), he was promoted to Group Captain in January 1945 and appointed CO of the unit. He went to RAF Church Lawford in April, as Station Commander and CO of 20 and 21

PO 20.12.30 FO 20.6.32 FL 1.4.36 SL 1.12.38 WC 1.3.41 GC 1.7.44 WC 1.10.46 GC 1.1.49 AC 1.1.55

MICHAEL LISTER ROBINSON 37300

FL

Pilot

British

601, 238 and 609 Squadrons

Born in Chelsea, London in May 1917, Robinson was the son of the future Sir Roy, later Lord, Robinson, a key figure in the development of the Forestry Commission. He joined the RAF on a short service commission in September 1935. On the 28th he was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham and with training completed, he joined 111 Squadron at Northolt on August 3 1936. Robinson went to 11 Group Pool, St Athan on January 30 1939, as an instructor and was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on July 10. He was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on September 24, with effect from July 11.

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His first sortie was on the 15th, a section scramble. On September 7 he returned to Debden, with damage sustained in combat over the Thames Estuary, in Hurricane P 3709, unhurt. On the 15th he probably destroyed a Do 17. Robinson’s final sortie with 257 was on September 16 1940. He was then posted away to Bomber Command. No further service details traced. Robinson died on October 3 1975.

He was posted to France on March 16 1940, to join 85 Squadron but this was changed and he joined 87 Squadron at Lille/Seclin on March 22, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. On May 6 he badly injured a hand in a crash in a Master and was sent back to England and admitted to hospital. Fit again, Robinson went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, as a supernumerary. He was posted to 601 Squadron on August 16 and joined it at Tangmere on the 18th. He made his first flight with 601 on the 18th, aerobatics. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander two days later. On the 31st he destroyed a Bf 109, probably destroyed another and damaged a third, on September 4 he shared in probably destroying a Bf 110, on the 6th he destroyed three Bf109s and on the 25th he probably destroyed a Bf 110. Robinson made his final flight with 601 on September 27 and next day he joined 238 Squadron at Middle Wallop, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. On the 30th he destroyed two Bf 110s and probably a Bf 109. He was posted to command 609 Squadron at Middle Wallop on October 4, as an Acting Squadron Leader. Robinson claimed two Bf 110s destroyed on the 7th. He was awarded the DFC (26.11.40). Between May 7 and July 24 1941 he claimed nine Bf 109s destroyed and another eight damaged. Robinson was awarded the DSO (5.8.41) and the C de G (Belg) (22.8.41). He was posted away to lead the Biggin Hill Wing in early August 1941 and on the 7th he got a probable Bf 109. On August 19 Ortmans of 609 went down into the sea during a Blenheim escort operation. Robinson circled him until his fuel ran very low, by which time an ASR launch was well on the way. He just managed to make it back to Manston, where he made a crashlanding. On August 27 Robinson destroyed a Bf 109, his final victory. In September 1941 Robinson was rested and commanded RAF Manston until October, when he was appointed as aide to the Inspector General of the RAF. Back on operations, Robinson was appointed to lead the Tangmere Wing on January 1 1942. He failed to return from a sweep on April 10, whilst leading the Wing at the head of 340 Squadron. Robinson is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 64. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde.

FREDERICK ASPINALL ROBSHAW 42441

Pilot

British

British

85 and 229 Squadrons

He was posted from there to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 3. After converting to Hurricanes, Robshaw joined 85 Squadron at Church Fenton on September 16 and moved to 229 Squadron on the 27th. Robshaw’s Hurricane, P 3227, was damaged in combat with Bf 109s over North Kent on September 30. He made a crash-landing W of Ash, slightly wounded. He flew no further sorties with 229 in October or November and was posted to RAF Northolt, as supernumerary, non-effective sick. Robshaw was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. APO 5.8.39 PO 24.3.40 FO 24.3.41 FL 24.3.42

NORMAN CHARLES HAROLD ROBSON 70874

FO

Pilot

British

72 Squadron

Robson became an RAFO pupil pilot on January 17 1938. He was commissioned in Class ‘A’ of the RAFO on March 26 1938 and he went to 10 FTS, Ternhill on April 9. With the course completed, he joined 72 Squadron at Church Fenton on October 29 1938. He relinquished his RAFO commission, when he was granted a short service commission in the RAF on January 17 1939. Still with 72 Squadron in early July 1940, Robson destroyed a He 111 on August 15, damaged a Bf 110 on September 2 and shared in the destruction of Do 17s on September 10 and 27. He was appointed temporary ‘A’ Fight Commander on September 5 and this appointment was confirmed on the 21st. Robson was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on the 27th. He shared in destroying a Bf 110 on October 27. He relinquished his acting rank on November 5 1940 and reverted to Flying Officer, pending a posting. This came four days later, when he was posted to CFS, Upavon. Robson stayed on in the RAF and was killed in a flying accident on January 18 1954 as a Squadron Leader.

PETER ETHELBERT MERRICK ROBINSON Sgt

Pilot

Robshaw joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 12 1939, as a pupil pilot. He completed his training and was with 4 Ferry Pilot Pool in May 1940.

APO 16.9.35 PO 16.9.36 FO 16.4.38 FL 16.4.40 SL 1.6.41

100584

PO

56 Squadron

Born in Sawbridgeworth on April 13 1914, Robinson was educated at Harrow County School, 1925 to 1930. He went to work for Vesty’s Blue Star Shipping Line, doing office work. He later began studying for the Chartered Institute of Secretaries examination.

APO (RAFO) 26.3.38 PO 17.1.39 FO 17.8.40 FL 17.8.41 SL 1.7.43 SL 1.8.46

Robinson joined the RAFVR in May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748122) and was called up at the outbreak of war. After completing his training, he arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 15 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, Robinson joined 56 Squadron at North Weald on July 27 and made his first flight with the squadron on that day, local flying. On August 16 he damaged a Do 17 and he destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged a He 111 on the 18th. The Bf 110 crashed and burned out at Pluckley. He damaged Do 17s on August 28 and September 30. Commissioned in June 1941, Robinson was still with 56 Squadron. On the 17th of the month the squadron escorted bombers over the Channel on a daylight raid. They were attacked from above by Bf 109s and Robinson was shot down. He reported that he was alright and baled out of Hurricane Z 2812. When his body was taken from the sea four days later by a Dover trawler, it was riddled with bullets and it would seem that Robinson was killed as he floated down. He is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, North Weald Bassett, Essex.

HENRY ADRIAN CHARLES RODEN 740410 Sgt

Pilot British

19 Squadron

Roden was born in Bradford on August 22 1916 and was educated at Bellahouston Academy in Glasgow. He joined the RAFVR about July 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and got to 5 OTU, Aston Down on April 7 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 19 Squadron at Duxford on May 6. Roden flew his first sortie on July 15, a patrol. On July 28 Roden crashed on landing at Duxford, after an attack on a Ju 88. He was unhurt. He probably destroyed a Bf 110 on September 11. Four days later he made a crashlanding in Spitfire P 9431, after his glycol tank was damaged in an action with Bf 109s. Roden was slightly injured and the aircraft was written off. Following an action against Bf 110s off Harwich on November 15 1940, Roden hit a tree whilst attempting a forced-landing in bad visibility, in Spitfire P 7420. He died of his injuries the next day and is buried in Linlithgow Cemetery, West Lothian.

PO 5.6.41

BERNARD JOHN ROFE PETER TREVOR ROBINSON 742005

Sgt

Pilot

British

40751

FO

Pilot

British

25 Squadron

257 Squadron

Robinson joined the RAFVR in September 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and he went to 15 OTU, which provided training for twin-engined bombers.

Rofe, of Douglas, Isle of Man, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 7 1938, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on May 21 and with training completed, he joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge on December 17 1938.

On July 12 1940 he was transferred to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, where he converted to Hurricanes and then joined 257 Squadron at Northolt on August 3. Robinson made his first flight with 257 on August 10, a sector recco and R/T practice.

He was still with the squadron in early July 1940. During an attack on enemy aircraft at night on September 4 Rofe’s Blenheim was hit by anti-aircraft fire and the tail unit badly damaged. On the 18th he returned to North Weald, with his aircraft damaged by return fire

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Eastchurch on the 27th. He went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool on June 1 1940, to await a posting. Rogowski was sent to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum on July 22, for testing and grading. He moved on to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 29th and after converting to Hurricanes, he flew a patrol with 74 Squadron on August 12 before joining 303 Squadron at Northolt on August 19. He destroyed a Bf 109 on September 2 and four days later he was slightly wounded in the legs in an engagement NE of London and he was posted to RAF Northolt, as non-effective sick. He did not rejoin the squadron until October 23. Rogowski was awarded the KW (23.12.40). In early 1941 Rogowski was briefly with 91 Squadron at Hawkinge but on February 2 he was posted to 74 Squadron at Biggin Hill. He suffered scalp wounds in a forced-landing at Langley Green, Eastbourne on the 24th, in Spitfire P 7559. He destroyed a Bf 109 during a squadron patrol on April 7 1941. Rogowski joined 308 Squadron at Northolt on August 6 1941, serving with it until July 1 1942, when he was posted to 1489 Flight. He returned to operations on June 23 1943, when he went to 302 Squadron at Heston. Promoted to Flight Sergeant on September 1, Rogowski was awarded two bars to the KW (7.10.43). He was posted to 16 FTS, Newton on January 9 1944 for an instructor’s course. For some reason he was sent to Sheffield on a disciplinary course and on May 23 1944 he was posted to 2 AGS, possibly as a staff pilot. On June 10 1944 he joined 306 Squadron at Holmesly South and was promoted to Warrant Officer on July 1. During his service with 306 he destroyed a V 1 and shared two others on August 16 and destroyed two V 1s on August 28. Rogowski was awarded the VM (5th Class)(17.8.45) and the Silver Cross of Merit with Swords. Posted to 25 EFTS on August 20 1945 for an instructor’s course, which he did not complete, Rogowski went to the PAF Depot at Blackpool on December 21 1945. He was released in 1946, as a Warrant Officer. Rogowski apparently stayed in England after the war and lived in Ipswich. He died on August 17 1997 at the Meadows Nursing Home at Stowmarket. He was buried in The Lawns Roman Catholic Cemetery, Ipswich, in an unmarked grave. On September 12 2000 he was commemorated by having a permanent headstone placed on his grave, with a ceremony at the grave side. This was achieved through the research and efforts of David Empson of Ipswich.

from an enemy aircraft, intercepted during a night patrol. Rofe was killed on January 12 1942, as a Flight Lieutenant with 31 (GR) Squadron. He was 21 years old and is buried in Sherwood Cemetery, Charlottetown, Canada. APO 7.5.38 PO 7.3.39 FO 1.9.40 FL 3.9.41

BRUCE ARTHUR ROGERS 72088

FO

Pilot

British

85 and 242 Squadrons

Rogers was educated at Brentwood School and St Edmund Hall, Oxford, where he read Modern Languages. He was a member of the University Air Squadron and was commissioned in the RAFVR in February 1938. Called to full-time service in October 1939, Rogers relinquished his RAFVR commission and was granted a Permanent Commission in the RAF on October 7 1939, as a university entrant. He completed his training and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940. He converted to Hurricanes and joined 85 Squadron at Church Fenton on September 15. Rogers moved to 242 Squadron at Coltishall on the 28th. On a squadron escort for Blenheims, detailed to bomb the Chocques chemical works at Bethune on June 17 1941, Rogers was shot down and killed. He was 23 and is buried in Ambleteuse Communal Cemetery, France. PO (RAFVR) 1.2.38 PO 7.10.39 FO 7.10.40 FL 7.1.41

EVERETT BRYAN ROGERS 81373

PO

Pilot British

615 and 501 Squadrons Rogers joined the RAFVR about July 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740387). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 11 FTS, Shawbury on No 18 Course, which ran from January 31 to June 29 1940.

He was commissioned and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 6. After converting to Hurricanes, Rogers joined 615 Squadron at Kenley on August 4 and moved to 501 Squadron there on September 12. Rogers destroyed a Do 17 on the 15th and on the 28th he was shot down by Bf 109s over Deal, baling out, unhurt. His Hurricane, V 7497, crashed and burned out at Chartway Street, East Sutton. Later in the war Rogers was with Bomber Command. He was awarded the DFC (27.3.45), as an Acting Squadron Leader with 640 Squadron, operating in Halifaxs from Leconfield. The citation mentioned an occasion when a shell burst beneath the tailplane of his aircraft as it approached Sterkrada. The Halifax turned completely on its back and fell towards the ground, out of control. Rogers eventually righted it, assured himself that the crew was unharmed and then went on to bomb the target, afterwards safely regaining his base. On another operation, flak damaged his controls on the way to Chemnitz and only the trimming tabs could be used to control the aircraft. He continued on and bombed the target. Rogers was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1960.

RUDOLF BOHUMIL ROHACEK 81910

Pilot

British

234 Squadron

Rogers, of Falmouth, Cornwall, joined the RAFVR in June 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940. After converting to Spitfires, Rogers joined 234 Squadron at St Eval on September 18. He was killed on January 16 1941, aged 24. Rogers is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 51.

JAN ALEKSANDER ROGOWSKI 780965

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

Czechoslovakian

310, 601 and 238 Sqdns

He was required to join the French Foreign Legion with the assurance that he would transfer to a French military unit if war was declared. Before he could be assigned to the Legion Training Base in Algeria, war was declared and he was transferred to l’Armée de l’Air. On October 9 he was posted to CIC Chartres for re-training to French equipment. On May 23 1940 he was posted to Cazaux, near Bordeaux, but the French capitulated before he could join an operational unit. With other Czech airmen he was evacuated from Bordeaux to England. He went to the Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford and was commissioned in the RAFVR on July 13 1940 Rohacek joined 310 Squadron at Duxford on the same day. He was attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 17 for conversion to Hurricanes. He was posted to 601 Squadron at Exeter on September 10 and moved to 238 Squadron at Chilbolton on October 8. On October 10 1940 Rohacek damaged a Bf 110. Over Bournemouth on November 5, Rohacek was attacked by Bf 109s, in Hurricane P 3618. His radiator was damaged and he made a forced-landing at Tarrant Hinton, Dorset, unhurt. He remained with 238 Sqn until April 29 1941 when he was posted to 312 Squadron. In 1942 Rohacek was serving with 312 Squadron, as a Flight Lieutenant. He was killed on April 27, when he and another Spitfire were scrambled from Fairwood Common, to attack a lone Ju 88, near Bath. He was flying at an altitude of 28,000 feet when his Spitfire Mk Vb, AD533 was seen to go into a vertical dive. It crashed and burst into flames 200 yards from Axbridge railway station, Somerset. It is thought probable that Rohacek became unconscious when his oxygen equipment froze up. He is buried in St Hilary of Poitiers Cemetery, Killay, Swansea.

GEORGE WADE ROGERS Sgt

Pilot

Rohacek was born on November 18 1914 at Marianske Hory, Ostrava. He served, as a fighter pilot in 4 Air Regiment, based at Hradec Kralove and equipped with Avia B-534 biplanes. After the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939, Rohacek was demobilised on the 17th. He escaped to Poland on June 27 and reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate at Krakow.. With other escaped Czech airmen, he went to Gdynia and boarded a ship bound for France.

PO 6.7.40 FO 6.7.41 FL 6.6.42

741720

PO

74 and 303 Squadrons

Rogowski was born in Jurowce, Bialystock Province, Poland on September 17 1917. When the Germans invaded Poland on September 1 1939, he was serving with 162 Eskadra in the 6th Air Regiment, Lwow.

PO 13.7.40 FO 27.12.40 FL 27.12.41

Rogowski arrived in England in February 1940 and was enlisted in the RAFVR at RAF

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WILLIAM THOMAS EDWARD ROLLS 116492

Sgt

Pilot

British

UK and in August 1942 he was posted to an MU, where he flew many different types of aircraft. He was awarded the DFC (9.42). In October Roman joined 171 Squadron at Gatwick, an army co-operation unit, where he gained experience on the Tomahawk, the future equipment for a new Belgian squadron, about to be formed at Ikeja, Nigeria, for service in the Belgian Congo. Roman joined the squadron there in December 1942, remaining with it until May 1943, when he returned to the Middle East and rejoined 272 Squadron, then at Ta Kali, Malta, as a Squadron Leader. On July 22 1943 he shared in the destruction of a Ju 52 and a Do 18 and damaged another Do 18, on the water. In May 1944 Roman was posted to HQ Middle East. Returning to the UK, he served with the BiG and then the BTS until April 1945, when he went to 51 OTU, moved on to 54 OTU and then joined 29 Squadron at Manston in July 1945. He was at the Night Fighter Leaders’ School from February to April 1946. Roman was released from the RAF after the war as a Squadron Leader. He returned to Belgium, where he later took command of the 1st Wing, Belgian Air Force in February 1951, as a Lieutenant-Colonel. Roman was killed on November 25 1954, when he crashed in a Meteor at Beauvechain.

72 Squadron

Rolls was born in Lower Edmonton, Middlesex on August 6 1914. He won a scholarship to The Latymer School in 1925. He joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745542) and did the long course at 19 E&RFTS, Gatwick, which ended on June 29 1939. Called up at the outbreak of war, Rolls completed his training at 3 FTS, South Cerney and after passing out on June 14 1940, he joined 72 Squadron at Acklington on the 19th. The squadron went south to Biggin Hill on August 31. Rolls destroyed a Bf 110 and a Do 17 on September 2, destroyed two Bf 110s on the 4th, he destroyed a Do 17 and probably another on the 11th, destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another on the 14th, damaged a Bf 109 on the 15th and destroyed a Bf 109 on the 20th. Rolls was awarded the DFM (8.11.40) and posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth in January 1941, as an instructor. He moved to 61 OTU, Heston in July. He returned to operations on October 23 1941, joining 122 Squadron at Scorton and he was commissioned in January 1942. The squadron went to Hornchurch on April 2 1942. Rolls destroyed a FW 190 and probably a second on May 17 and probably destroyed a FW 190 and shared another on June 2. In July 1942 Rolls was posted to Debden, then flew a Spitfire to Abbotsinch and embarked in HMS Furious at Greenock. With others, he flew off in early August to Luqa, Malta, where he joined 126 Squadron. Rolls was appointed a Flight Commander. On August 13 he destroyed a Ju 88, on September 19 a Do 24, on October 11 he destroyed a Re 2001 and damaged another, on the 12th destroyed a Ju 88 and two Mc 202s, on the 13th and 16th destroyed two Ju 88s and on the 26th a Bf 109. Soon afterwards Rolls broke a leg and was admitted to hospital. He was flown to Gibraltar in a Hudson and then took off from there for Portsmouth in a Catalina. Strong headwinds caused fuel to run low, necessitating a forced-landing off the Welsh coast and the flying boat was towed in by a destroyer. Rolls was taken to the Royal Naval Hospital, Swansea. He was awarded the DFC (4.12.42). In early 1943 he was posted to the Publicity Branch, Air Ministry, to lecture and talk at ‘Wings for Victory’ functions. Rolls was sent to the Air Armament School at Manby in September 1943 for a six month course. Afterwards he went to HQ 12 Group, as a Specialist Armament Officer. In November 1944 Rolls was attached to the Bombing Analysis Unit and went to France with it in June 1945. He was later attached to the US Air Evaluation Board. He was released from the RAF in January 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. Rolls went to work for the Ministry of Works and was later with the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research. In 1960 he became a Senior Information Officer at Air Ministry and took over production of RAF Training Films. He was appointed Director of the Directorate of Training Films Requirements (RAF) in 1968. Rolls retired in 1975 and died in July 1988.

PO 12.7.40

ANDREW LUNN ROMANIS 751715

Pilot

Belgian

25 Squadron

He was a member of the crew of Blenheim L 6679, which crashed near Ingatestone, Billericay, Essex during a night patrol on November 16 1940, operating from Debden. Romanis, Sergeant A J Theasby, pilot, and Sergeant P L T Winter, radar operator, were all killed. Romanis was 24. He is buried in Saffron Walden Cemetery, Essex.

ANTHONY HARTWELL ROOK 90071

FL

Pilot British

504 Squadron Rook joined 504 Squadron, AAF in early 1937. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939 and was with 504 in France from May 10 to 22 1940, when it reinforced squadrons there.

Rook was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on May 18 1940 and later promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant. On September 27 1940 he destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 30th he damaged a He 111. Rook took command of 504 on March 14 1941. On April 3 he shared in destroying a He 111. On July 29 he took ‘A’ Flight to Leconfield, where it was expanded to squadron strength and became 81 Squadron, with himself as CO. The squadron embarked in HMS Argus on August 12, bound for Russia. On September 1 it flew its Hurricanes off to Vaenga airfield, near Murmansk. Operating with 134 Squadron, as 151 Wing, the squadron flew patrols and escorted Russian bombers. On September 17 Rook shared a He 111 and on the 27th he shared in the probable destruction of two Ju 88s. On November 20 the 81 pilots began converting Russian pilots on to Hurricanes. Leaving all its aircraft and equipment behind, the squadron left Russia on November 29 in HMS Kenya and landed at Rosyth on December 7 1941.The squadron then went to Turnhouse, to re-equip. Rook was posted away in January 1942. He was awarded the DFC (3.3.42) and the Order of Lenin (31.3.42), one of four awarded. For services at 57 OTU, Rook was awarded the AFC (8.6.44). He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Wing Commander. When 504 was reformed as an AAF squadron in May 1946, Rook was given command and led it until 1948. He died in 1976.

CHARLES LOUIS ROMAN PO

British

Romanis, of Edinburgh, joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 25 Squadron at Debden in October 1940.

PO 6.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 6.1.44

81634

Sgt Wop/AG

236 Squadron

Roman was born in Lessines, Belgium on September 28 1908. He entered the Ecole de Pilotage in December 1928 and on graduation he joined 3 Escadrille/ Groupe 1 of the 1st Regiment of the Aéronautique Militaire in November 1930. In the succeeding years he served with various squadrons until March 1940, when he became an instructor at the 2nd Escadrille of the l’Ecole de Pilotage at Gosselies. After the German invasion, the school withdrew to France, to Tours, then moved to Caen and finally to Asnelles-sur-Mer. From here Roman left for England on June 18 1940, arrived on the 25th and went to 7 S of TT, where he was commissioned on July 12 in the RAFVR. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 12th and after converting to Blenheims, he joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island on August 5. Roman’s flight of 236 was posted to RAF Aldergrove on November 19 1940. It combined with a flight from 235 Squadron there on the 21st, to reform 272 Squadron. Roman was appointed Adjutant of 272 and he flew his first sortie on the 23rd. 272 left for the Middle East on May 24 1941. On September 24 Roman damaged a Ju 52, on the 27th he probably damaged two SM 79s on the ground at Cagliari, on the 29th he damaged two Cant Z 506s on the water at Cagliari, on December 13 he damaged a Do 24 and probably destroyed a Bf 110 over Crete and on December 24 he destroyed a Bf 109. Roman served with 272 until he completed his tour in May 1942, when he went to the Middle East Pool, the last of the squadron’s original officers to leave. He returned to the

PO (AAF) 23.6.37 SL (AAFRO) 1.8.46

FO (AAF) 23.12.38

FO 24.8.39

FL 3.9.40

SL 1.12.41

MICHAEL ROOK 90077

FO

Pilot

British

504 Squadron

Born in October 1915, Rook was at Uppingham School from 1929 to 1933. He joined 504 Squadron, AAF in 1938. Called to full-time service on August 24 1939, Rook completed his training at 2 FTS, Brize Norton on No 42 Course, which ran from October 9 1939 to March 23 1940.

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On July 9 1940, still with 3 Squadron, Rose was passenger in Magister P 6359, piloted by Sergeant H B Alexander of 8 B&GS, which crashed on take-off from Longman aerodrome, Inverness. The pilot was killed and Rose was slightly injured. On July 29 1940 he was posted from 3 Squadron to 232 Squadron at Sumburgh but he remained attached to 3 Squadron from 232, pending an enquiry into the Magister crash. Whilst with 3, Rose flew five operational sorties, on August 2, 4, 8, 12 and 13. On August 22 1940 Rose’s attachment from 232 to 3 Squadron was terminated and he rejoined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill. On August 25 he damaged a Do 17. In this engagement, he was shot down over the Channel by a Bf 109, in Hurricane V 6547. He baled out and was rescued from the sea, having released dye issued that morning. He was still with 32 Squadron on November 30 1940. Rose was awarded the DFC (9.10.42). He commanded 184 Squadron from its formation at Colerne on December 1 1942 until August 1944 and 113 Squadron in Burma from November 1944 to May 1945. Rose was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Wing Commander. His elder brother, Flying Officer F C “Tommy” Rose, was killed in action on May 18 1940, flying with 56 Squadron from Vitry-en-Artois. Jack Rose served in the Colonial Office in Northern Rhodesia and was Private Secretary to the Governor. From 1960 Rose spent four years as Administrator of the Cayman Islands. In 1963/64 he was Deputy Governor of British Guiana. Rose was appointed MBE in 1954 and CMG in 1963 He died on October 10 2009.

Rook then rejoined 504 Squadron at Debden. On April 28 1940 he was attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to PDC, Uxbridge on May 15, for posting to a squadron in France. He rejoined 504 Squadron at Lille/Marcq a few days later and returned to England with it on the 22nd. On September 15 1940 Rook shared in the destruction of a Do 17 and on the 27th he destroyed a Bf 110. He was with 504 until posted away in July 1941 to 134 Squadron, then forming at Leconfield, as a Flight Commander. The squadron embarked in the carrier HMS Argus on August 12, bound for Russia. It flew its Hurricanes off on September 1 to Vaenga airfield, near Murmansk. The squadron operated with 81 Squadron, forming 151 Wing. Rook destroyed a Bf 109 on September 27 and shared in the destruction of another on October 6 1941. The Wing continued its operations, including bomber-escorts, until midNovember, when pilots of 134 began converting Russian pilots on to Hurricanes. The squadron left Russia on November 29, leaving all equipment behind and returned in HMS Kenya, landing at Rosyth on December 7 1941. The squadron then went to Catterick to re-equip. Rook took command of 43 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey in September 1942. On October 19 the pilots went to Greenock and sailed in the SS Ashland for Gibraltar, from where, at dawn on November 8, they took off for North Africa in Hurricanes, landing soon after 10 am at Maison Blanche, Algeria, the first RAF aircraft to land there. Awarded the DFC (16.2.43), Rook was posted away on August 9 1943 to a staff job in Egypt. Some sources say he destroyed three enemy aircraft in the Mediterranean area. He was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Wing Commander. Rook was killed in a flying accident on March 13 1948. At one time he was the tallest pilot in the RAF. Rook is buried in Edwalton churchyard, Nottinghamshire.

APO 14.12.38 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.44

JAMES STANLEY ROSE 566059

Sgt

Pilot

British 23 Squadron Rose, of Featherstone, Yorkshire, was educated at King’s School, Pontefract. He joined the RAF in September 1932, as an Aircraft Apprentice, and passed out in August 1935, as a Fitter. He later applied for pilot training and was selected.

PO (AAF) 8.8.38 PO 24.8.39 FO 8.8.40 FL 8.8.41 SL 1.7.43

GEOFFREY LAWRENCE ROSCOE 42990

PO

Pilot

British

79 and 87 Squadrons

With training completed, Rose arrived at 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on October 26 1939. After converting to Blenheims, he joined 23 Squadron at Wittering on December 22 1939. Rose was with 23 Squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. He was killed on March 4 1941, still with 23 Squadron. Rose was 25. He is buried in Guines Communal Cemetery, France.

Roscoe, of Stoke-on-Trent, was commissioned in the 5th Battalion, The North Staffordshire Regiment (TA) in April 1935. He transferred to the 41st (North Staffordshire Regiment) Anti-Aircraft Battalion, Corps of Royal Engineers in December 1936. He was seconded to the RAF with a temporary commission in March 1940. After completing his training at 8 FTS, Montrose on No 19 Course, from May 6 to August 12 1940, he went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum for No 14 Course. Before the course ended, Roscoe was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 2. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 79 Squadron at Pembrey on September 17 1940. He moved to 87 Squadron at Exeter on October 8. From December 1940 on, the squadron maintained a detachment at St Mary’s in the Scillies. On July 21 1941 Roscoe shared in the destruction of a He 111, which went down into the sea off the islands. Roscoe was killed on February 24 1942, as a Flight Lieutenant with 87 Squadron, aged 25. He was cremated at the Stoke-on-Trent Crematorium, Staffordshire.

STUART NIGEL ROSE 81920

Pilot

British

British

602 Squadron

He joined the RAFVR at Southampton in December 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot(742683). He began his flying training at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble and had logged 87 flying hours before being called up at the outbreak of war. On November 22 1939 Rose went to No 1 ITW, Cambridge and was posted to 14 FTS, Kinloss on February 3 1940, moving to 14 FTS, Cranfield on April 19. With training completed on June 17, he was commissioned on the 18th and he joined 602 Squadron at Drem on the 20th. Rose claimed a Bf 110 destroyed on August 25 and on September 7 he shared a Bf 110. He was slightly wounded on the 11th, in the elbow, and was non-effective sick until October 6, when he rejoined 602. He began flying again on the 7th. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 29th and on November 6 he shared in damaging a Ju 88. Rose was posted to 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 2 1941. Tour-expired, he went to 57 OTU, Hawarden on November 12, as an instructor. Rose was sent to CFS, Hullavington on November 11 1942, for a course, returning to 57 OTU, then at Eshott, on February 11 1943. He went to CGS, Sutton Bridge on June 2 for a gunnery instructor’s course and returned to 57 OTU on July 1. Rose was posted to 15 APC, Peterhead on January 10 1944, moving later to 14 APC, Ayr. He went to the Middle East on July 1, to B&GS at El Ballah. He returned to the UK in late May 1945, for a gunnery instructors’ course at CGS, Catfoss. He went back to El Ballah in July but returned again to the UK in December and was released from the RAF in February 1946, as a Squadron Leader. Rose qualified as a Chartered Quantity Surveyor in June 1948.

JACK ROSE FO

Pilot

Born on June 21 1918, Rose was a trainee quantity surveyor.

PO 7.3.40 FO 7.3.41

41472

PO

3 and 32 Squadrons

Born in London on January 18 1917, Rose was educated at Fox Hill School and Shooters Hill School. He went to University College, London, to study Science. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 6 1938. With training completed, he was with 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on August 31 1939. He was detached to Newcastle from November 29 to December 4 1939, for liaison with the Royal Navy. In May 1940 Rose was attached to 3 Squadron and joined it at Merville in France on May 14. On the 15th he shared in the destruction of a Bf 109, on the 18th he destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 19th he destroyed a He 111. After shooting down this aircraft, Rose pulled away and opened his hood, to remove oil from the He111 from his windscreen. He was then surprised by a Bf 109 and hit. He managed to land safely at Lille/Seclin.

PO 18.6.40 FO 18.6.41 FL 18.6.42

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ARTHUR THOMAS ROSE-PRICE 39762

FO

Pilot

British

Called up on September 1, he completed his training at FTS on August 30, was commissioned next day and went to 7 OTU, Hawarden. After converting to Spitfires, Ross joined 610 Squadron at Acklington on September 22 1940. Ross was shot down by return fire from a Ju 88 he had engaged over Portsmouth on April 15 1941. He crashed into the sea in Spitfire P 7684 and is believed to have drowned. Ross was 21 and he is buried in Surbiton Cemetery, Surrey.

501 Squadron

Born in Concepcion, Chile on April 28 1919, Rose-Price was at Tonbridge School from February 1934 to February 1936. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 15 1937, as a pupil pilot. On June 5 1937 Rose-Price was posted to 11 FTS, Wittering and with training completed, he joined 38 Squadron at Marham on January 8 1938. He was posted away to 10 FTS, Ternhill on September 29 1939, as an instructor. Rose-Price was at 10 FTS until August 22 1940 when he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden. He converted to Hurricanes and joined 501 Squadron at Gravesend on September 2. After arriving in the morning, he flew a patrol. He failed to return from a sortie in the afternoon, shot down over Dungeness, in Hurricane L 1578. Rose-Price is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 6 and on a plaque at Tonbridge School, unveiled on November 26 2003. He was the brother of Dennis Price, the well-known actor.

PO 31.8.40

JACK KENNETH ROSS 79163

PO

Pilot

British

Ross was born in 1916 at Hornsea, East Yorkshire and later lived at Epsom, Surrey. He joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745307). He did his pre-war training at 19 E&RFTS at Gatwick.

APO 18.5.37 PO 15.3.38 FO 15.10.39

FREDERICK ERNEST ROSIER 37425

FL

Pilot

British

229 Squadron Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 16 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 11 1940. Ross was commissioned on the 12th and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 18th. After converting to Hurricanes, Ross was posted to 17 Squadron at Kenley on May 25. He went to France with the squadron on June 5 and operated from Le Mans and Dinard before it was withdrawn on the 17th, reaching Tangmere on the 19th, via Jersey. Ross probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 14th. He shared a Ju 88 on August 21 and shared a Do 17 on September 3. Ross shared another Do 17 on October 2 but had to make a forced-landing when he ran out of fuel. On October 6 he shared in destroying another Do 17 and on the 13th he was shot down by anti-aircraft fire during a patrol over Chatham. He baled out, wounded, and was admitted to Gravesend Hospital. His Hurricane, P 3536, crashed at Rochester. He was back with the squadron on the 15th. Ross destroyed a Do 17 on October 27 and he destroyed a Ju 87 and probably a second on November 11. Ross shared a Ju 88 on July 11 1941. When 134 Squadron was formed at Leconfield on July 31 from 17 Squadron personnel, Ross was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant and went to the new unit as a Flight Commander. He served in Russia with the squadron and was awarded the DFC (25.11.41). After a short stay at Catterick, following its return from Russia in December 1941, the squadron was posted to Eglinton, in Northern Ireland. On January 6 1942 Ross had to ditch in the Irish Sea. Extensive searches failed to find him. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 66.

Born on October 13 1915 at Wrexham, Rosier was educated at Grove Park School there. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 26 1935, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 11 FTS, Wittering on November 2 and with training completed, he joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere on May 11 1936. Rosier later became ‘B’ Flight Commander. Rosier was posted away from 43 Squadron on August 27 1939, to the RAF School of Aeronautical Engineering, Henlow. On October 5 1939 he joined 229 Squadron at its formation at Digby, as ‘B’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. On May 16 1940 Rosier led a 229 Squadron detachment to France. On the 18th he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another. On another sortie later the same day, he was shot down and baled out, badly burned, near Vitry. Rosier was sent back to England on the 23rd, via Dieppe. On recovery, Rosier was at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting. On October 6 1940 he rejoined 229 Squadron, then at Northolt, as a supernumerary. When the CO, Squadron Leader A J Banham, was shot down and wounded on October 15, Rosier took command on the 19th, as an Acting Squadron Leader. He embarked the squadron on the aircraft carrier HMS Furious on May 10 1941, bound for the Middle East. The pilots flew their Hurricanes off to Malta on the 21st, refuelled there and then flew on to Mersa Matruh. The 229 pilots were attached to 73 and 274 Squadrons in the Western Desert for operations. On September 1 1941 229 began functioning again as a squadron, its ground personnel having at last arrived in Egypt. It began night defence operations. Rosier was posted away in October 1941, to lead the newly-formed 262 Wing. He was awarded the DSO (13.2.42). The citation mentioned one occasion when Rosier saw a pilot forced to land in enemy territory. In an attempt to rescue, he landed to pick the man up but was unable to take off again because of the closeness of the enemy. Both pilots eventually got away and after some narrow escapes, regained their base after three days. Rosier later went to a staff appointment with 211 Fighter Group. He returned to the UK in 1943 and was made an OBE (2.6.43). He commanded 52 OTU and later became Station Commander at Northolt. At the end of the war he was Group Captain Operations at 84 Group. He was made a Commander, Order of Orange Nassau in 1947. In the post-war RAF, Rosier held a series of appointments and commands including OC, Horsham St Faith, AOC Air Forces Middle East and AO CinC Fighter Command. He was made a CBE (1.1.55), a CB (31.12.60), a KCB (11.6.61) and a GCB (3.6.72). Rosier was Air ADC to the Queen in 1972/73 and retired from the RAF on September 3 1973, as an Air Chief Marshal. He died on September 10 1998. In May 2011 a plaque was unveiled in his memory at what is now the Grove Park campus of Yale College.

PO 12.5.40 FO 12.5.41

JOHN HEDLEY ROTHWELL 33576

Pilot British

Pilot

British

601, 32 and 605 Squadrons

Rothwell (581756) graduated on March 7 1940, with a Permanent Commission. He evidently went to 98 Squadron in France. Back in England, he joined 12 Squadron at Finningley from 98 Squadron on June 12 1940. He apparently volunteered for Fighter Command in August and on the 28th he joined 601 Squadron at Debden and was attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 3. After converting to Hurricanes, Rothwell was posted to 32 Squadron at Acklington on the 21st. He moved to 605 Squadron at Croydon on October 12 1940. On November 1 he got a probable Bf 109. Rothwell was killed on February 22 1941, when his Hurricane crashed at Upper Bush Lane, Cuxton, Kent. He is buried in Poynings Cemetery, Sussex.

ALEXANDER RICHARD ROSS PO

PO

Rothwell, of Brighton, was educated at Tonbridge School and entered RAF College, Cranwell in April 1939, as a Flight Cadet. After the outbreak of war Cranwell cadets, who had not completed their courses, were enlisted in the regular RAF on September 7 1939, as Airmen u/t Pilots and each given an Airman number.

APO 21.10.35 PO 26.8.36 FO 26.4.38 FL 26.4.40 SL 1.6.41 WC 1.6.42 WC 1.7.47 GC 1.1.53 AC 1.1.59 AVM 1.7.61 AM 1.7.66 ACM 1.3.70

84922

17 Squadron

610 Squadron

Ross, of Surbiton, was educated at Haileybury College and then at Imperial College, where he studied Engineering. He was a member of the London University Air Squadron in 1938. He transferred to the RAFVR on June 30 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754232).

PO 7.3.40

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JAMES HENRY ROUND 740667

Sgt

Pilot British

and began his weekend flying at 22 E&RFTS, Cambridge. He was called up at the outbreak of war and in November 1939 went to 14 FTS, Kinloss for No 4 Course, from November 20 1939 to May 11 1940. With the course completed, he joined 249 Squadron at Church Fenton on May 16. Flying from Boscombe Down one day in August, Rowell claimed a Bf 110 destroyed. On September 1 he claimed a He 111 destroyed. On the 3rd, on a patrol over Dover, Rowell’s Hurricane, V 6635, was hit in the engine and rear fuselage, probably by anti-aircraft fire. He got back to North Weald but the aircraft was on fire in the circuit. Rowell made a crash-landing on the aerodrome and was pulled clear by an unknown Sergeant-Observer of 25 Squadron, with burns to legs, metal splinters in the back and with face badly injured after smashing into his gunsight. Rowell returned to flying in March 1941 and was on development and testing for the rest of the war. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in January 1942, Rowell did development testing at Boscombe Down, test flying of repaired aircraft with Maintenance Command, tested new production Spitfires at Castle Bromwich and new Typhoons at Brockworth. Rowell flew 137 different types of aircraft. He was awarded a Permanent Commission in 1946, the King’s Commendation for Valuable Service in the Air in June 1946 and the AFC (1.1.47). Rowell retired on April 1 1950 as a Flight Lieutenant.

248 Squadron

Round, of Netherton Dudley, Warwickshire, joined the RAFVR about September 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 13 Course, which ran from September 9 to November 6 1939, for advanced training only. Round possibly joined 248 Squadron at Hendon direct from 10 FTS. On August 3 1940 he made a forced-landing in a cornfield at Tranent, cause unknown, unhurt. Round was the captain of a Blenheim which failed to return from a reconnaissance of the South Norwegian coast on August 19 1940. He and his crew, Sergeant W H Want, observer, and Sergeant M P Digby-Worsley, gunner, were all reported ‘Missing’. Round was 27. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 19.

JOHN ROURKE 56988

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

248 Squadron

Rourke joined the RAF in August 1939, as an Aircrafthand (652468). He later remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG and after completing his training, he joined 248 Squadron at Dyce, serving with it in the Battle of Britain.

PO 6.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 6.1.44 FL 1.9.45

Commissioned from Warrant Officer in January 1945, Rourke was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flying Officer. He died in 1966.

RICHARD MICHAEL BERNARD ROWLEY

PO 26.1.45 FO 26.7.45

Rowley was born in the London area on June 4 1915. He was educated at Eton and New College, Oxford, where he read History. He was in the University Air Squadron. He joined 601 Squadron, AAF late in 1937 and was commissioned in February 1938.

90142

FL

Pilot

British

145 Squadron

GEOFFREY WALTER ROUSE 132337

Sgt

Pilot

British

Called up on August 25 1939, Rowley completed his training and was with 601 in May 1940. On May 17 he went to France with ‘A’ Flight of 601. The flight returned to Tangmere on the 22nd. He moved to 145 Squadron, also at Tangmere, on June 1 1940. Rowley probably destroyed a Do 17 on August 12. He took temporary command of ‘A’ Flight of 145 on August 28, when Flight Lieutenant R G Dutton was posted non-effective sick. This appointment was confirmed in September. On October 30 Rowley was posted away. He relinquished command of ‘A’ Flight, which was taken over by Flight Lieutenant W Riley, posted to 145 from 302 Squadron. He resigned his commission on September 16 1941 because of ill-health. He died in Oxford on September 19 1952

236 Squadron

Rouse joined the RAFVR about March 1939 as an Airman u/t Pilot (745335). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and went to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth on August 12 1940. After converting to Blenheims, he joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on September 12. Rouse was posted with his flight to RAF Aldergrove on November 19 1940, where it combined with a flight from 235 Squadron, to reform 272 Squadron on the 21st. He flew his first sortie with 272 on the 24th. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in August 1942, Rouse was awarded the DFC (5.12.44), as a Flight Lieutenant with 235 Squadron. He was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant.

PO (AAF) 11.2.38 FO (AAF) 11.8.39 FO 25.8.39 FL 3.9.40

PO 12.8.42 FO 12.2.43 FL 12.8.44

MICHAEL ELLIOTT APPELBEE ROYCE 90076

FO

Pilot

British

504 Squadron

JOHN HAMPTON ROWDEN 83249

PO

Pilot

British

Born on September 23 1919, Royce was at Rugby School from 1933 to 1936. After leaving, he joined Rolls Royce, as an apprentice.

616 and 64 Squadrons

Rowden joined the RAFVR in May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748416). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on July 26 1940, He was commissioned on the 27th and went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum.

He was commissioned in 504 Squadron, AAF in August 1938 and reported for full-time service in December 1939. On April 2 1940 he damaged a He 115 over the North Sea. On May 12 1940 Royce flew with 504 to Lille/Marcq in France, to reinforce the Air Component. On the 14th he destroyed a He 111, shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 and damaged a Bf 110. On this day he was shot down and baled out, landing near Louvignies in Belgium. Royce made his own way back to Lille by various forms of transport. On May 19 he destroyed a Bf 109. The squadron returned to Manston on May 20. After a short stop, the surviving aircraft flew on to Wick, to reform and re-equip. On September 11 Royce got a probable Do 17, on the 15th he shared a Do 17 and damaged another, on the 27th damaged a Bf 110, on the 30th damaged a He 111 and on October 20 damaged a Ju 88. In June 1941 Royce was OC ‘B’ Flight at 55 OTU. Later in the year he was loaned to Rolls Royce by the RAF for test pilot duties at Hucknall. He did not fly operationally again. He was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Squadron Leader, and returned to the family business, Norvic, shoe manufacturers, eventually becoming Managing Director. Royce died of cancer in 1998. He is buried in the churchyard of the church of St Michael the Archangel, Shalfleet, Isle of Wight. He was the younger brother of W B Royce.

On August 22 Rowden went to 7 OTU, Hawarden. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 616 Squadron at Coltishall on September 3 and moved to 64 Squadron at Biggin Hill on October 13. Rowden was killed on April 9 1941. It is believed that he was shot down by a combination of AA fire and an attack by a Messerschmitt Bf 109. He is buried in Dunkirk Town Cemetery, France. PO 27.7.40

PETER ARCHIBALD ROWELL 115449

Sgt

Pilot

British

249 Squadron

Born in Littleport, Cambridge on September 27 1919, Rowell was educated at St George’s C of E School and Cambridge Technical College. After leaving he was employed by the Air Ministry Works Department.

PO (AAF) 28.8.38 PO 28.12.39 FL 28.12.40 SL 1.7.43

In August 1938 Rowell joined the RAFVR at Cambridge, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741958)

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WILLIAM BARRINGTON ROYCE 90062

FL

Pilot

British

on the 25th, destroyed a Bf 110 on the 28th and damaged a Bf 109 on October 10. Rozycki was posted to 306 Squadron at Ternhill on November 20 1940. He was awarded the KW (23.12.40) and Bar (1.2.41). On May 3 1941 he went to 23 Squadron at Ford. He was awarded the VM (5th Class) (10.9.41). On April 23 1942 Rozycki joined 307 Squadron at Exeter. He was awarded a second Bar to the KW (20.8.42) and the DFC (15.11.42). Tour-expired, he was posted to HQ 10 Group on November 11 1942, as Polish Liaison Officer, remaining there until May 28 1943, when he went to 54 OTU, as an instructor. Rozycki rejoined 23 Squadron, then at Sigonella, Italy, on October 4. The squadron returned to the UK in June 1944 and began bomber-support operations. Rozycki was posted to 5 Ferry Unit on August 22 1945. He was released from the PAF in September 1946 and repatriated to Poland. He was awarded a third Bar to the KW (31.10.47).

504 Squadron Royce was born in 1913. He was educated at Winchester House School and Dover College. He learned to fly with the Special Reserve of the RAF Reserve and was commissioned in June 1932, serving in 504 Squadron, a Special Reserve Unit. He relinquished this commission when the Special Reserve was converted to the Auxiliary Air Force in May 1936.

He was called up on August 24 1939 and he was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on January 16 1940, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. On April 2 he damaged a He 115 floatplane. On May 12 1940 Royce flew with 504 to Lille/Marcq in France, to reinforce the Air Component. He took temporary command of the squadron on the 14th, when the CO was lost. On the 15th he probably destroyed a Bf 109. He may have destroyed other enemy aircraft during 504’s period in France, which ended on May 20, when the squadron was withdrawn to Manston and after a short stop, flew on to Drem, to reform and re-equip. Royce was awarded the DFC (31.5.40). On September 15 1940 he damaged a Do 17, on the 27th he destroyed two Bf 110s and on the 30th he damaged a He 111. On December 6 1940 Royce was posted away to command the newly-reformed 260 Squadron at Skitten. He led it until April 9 1941, when he was posted to HQ 14 Group. He was briefly at Eglinton, Northern Ireland, to assist in the training in Spitfires of American pilots who were destined for the Eagle Squadrons. In June 1941 he was posted to 55 OTU at Usworth, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. In November 1941 Royce was on HMS Ark Royal, directing Hurricanes taking off for Malta. He was in the air, when the carrier was sunk on November 13. In July 1943 Royce was in the carrier HMS Furious, directing aircraft involved in the invasion of Sicily. In 1944/45 he was Station Commander at RAF Catania. Royce was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Wing Commander. He returned to the family business, Norvic, shoe manufacturers. Royce died in 1979. He was the older brother of M E A Royce. PO (RAFR) 4.6.32 FO (RAFR) 4.12.33 SL 1.12.40 WC 1.3.42

FO (AAF) 18.5.36

FO 24.8.39

PO 13.2.40 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.9.42

WILFRED SHEPHERD RUDDOCK 753197

PO

Pilot

Polish

Radar

Operator

British

23 Squadron

Ruddock was born on May 11 1901 in Willesden, Middlesex, the son of a journalist. He joined the Ground Section of the RAFVR before the war, as an Aircrafthand. Called up on September 1 1939, he later volunteered for aircrew duties and after a radar course, he joined 23 Squadron at Collyweston on July 18 1940. No details of his service in the RAF have been traced. Ruddock left the RAF in 1945, as a Warrant Officer. He died on November 6 1980.

CLIFFORD PERCIVAL RUDLAND 65998

Sgt

Pilot British

263 Squadron

Rudland was born in 1915, joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745446) and began his elementary flying training at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble.

FL 24.8.40

Called up at the outbreak of war, he was posted to 15 EFTS, Redhill in November and moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand for No 47 Course, which ran from April 29 to July 25 1940. With training completed, Rudland joined 263 Squadron at Grangemouth on August 1. He was attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 5 1940 and after converting to Hurricanes, he rejoined 263 on September 13. Commissioned in May 1941, Rudland destroyed two Bf 109s in the air and damaged a Ju 87 on the ground during a sortie in a Whirlwind against Maupertas airfield in France on August 6. He was appointed a Flight Commander later in 1941 and awarded the DFC (19.9.41). He was posted to 19 Squadron at Perranporth in September 1942, again as a Flight Commander. Rudland was detached to Vickers-Supermarine, Southampton in December and flew on test-pilot duties until October 1943. He joined 131Squadron at Church Stanton in November, as a Flight Commander. He was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader in August 1944 and given command of 64 Squadron at Harrowbeer. He was posted away in March 1945, to be Wing Commander Flying at Andrews Field, Essex. Rudland was awarded a Bar to the DFC (15.5.45) and the DFC (US) (15.5.45). He served as a Planning Officer at HQ 11 Group from May to August 1945 and was then sent on a course at the Command and General Staff School at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Rudland returned to the UK in November 1945 and was released from the RAF later in the month, as a Wing Commander. He served in the RAFVR from 1946 to 1951. He died in March 1996.

MIECZYSLAW ROZWADOWSKI 76720

AC 2

151 Squadron

Rozwadowski was in the PAF before the war. In September 1939 he was with 111 Eskadra and on the 8th he shared in the destruction of a Hs 126. When Poland fell, Rozwadowski escaped and eventually reached England in early 1940, where he was commissioned in the RAFVR on January 24, at RAF Eastchurch. On June 1 1940 he went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. On July 4 Rozwadowski was attached to 15 EFTS, Redhill, for testing and grading. He moved on to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 15th. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 151 Squadron at North Weald on August 8. Rozwadowski failed to return from a combat with BF 109s over the Channel off Dover on August 15. He was reported ‘Missing’, aged 25 years. During an earlier sortie on August 15 he destroyed a Bf 109 SW of Dover. He is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt. Rozwadowski was awarded the KW (10.9.41) and Bar (31.10.47). PO 24.1.40

WLADYSLAW ROZYCKI 76762

PO

Pilot

Polish

PO 8.5.41 FO 9.12.41 FL 9.12.42 SL 4.6.45 FL(RAFVR) 28.4.48

238 Squadron

Born on August 11 1907, Rozycki was in the PAF before the war. In the fighting of September 1939, he destroyed a Hs 126. When Poland fell, he escaped and eventually reached England, where he was commissioned in the RAFVR on February 13 1940 at RAF Eastchurch.

FREDERICK WILLIAM RUSHMER 90192

FL

Pilot

British

603 Squadron

Rushmer was born in Sisland, Norfolk on April 12 1910, to a family of farming landowners. He was the youngest of eleven children and the first one to die.

From June 1 1940 he was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. On July 4 Rozycki was attached to 15 EFTS, Redhill, for testing and grading. He moved on to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 18th. On the 22nd he crashed on the aerodrome in Hurricane N 2354 but was unhurt. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 238 Squadron at St Eval on August 19. He destroyed a He 111 on September 11, damaged another on the 15th, shot down another

After leaving school he worked as an engineering draughtsman in Norwich and he later joined Peebles, Engineers in Edinburgh. Rushmer joined 603 Squadron, AAF in 1934. He was called to full-time service with the squadron on August 23 1939 and he was appointed leader of Red Section.

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ANTHONY GERALD RUSSELL

On November 1 1939 Rushmer went to Bircham Newton, for a short course for recognition of markings on Coastal Command aircraft. He assumed command of ‘B’ Flight of 603 on November 17 1939, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. On January 14 1940 Rushmer was put in charge of the 603 detachment at Montrose, there on convoy protection duties. On January 19 he damaged a He 111. On July 23 1940 Rushmer shared in the destruction of a Do 17 seventy-five miles E of Aberdeen, on the 30th he shared in destroying a He 111 SE of Montrose. His aircraft was hit by return fire. On August 29 he made a forced-landing at Bossingham in Spitfire P 9459, after a combat over Deal, slightly wounded. He destroyed a Do 17 on September 2. Rushmer failed to return from a combat with Do 17s and Bf 109s over Biggin Hill on September 5 1940. His Spitfire, X 4261, could have been that which crashed at Buckmans Green Farm, Smarden. The pilot from this aircraft was buried as ‘unknown’ in All Saints’ churchyard, Staplehurst on September 11. An investigation of the crash site in 1970 failed to establish the pilot’s identity. Rushmer had been reported ‘Missing’ and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 4. However, a campaign to prove that the unknown airman was indeed Rushmer was begun in 1990 by two local residents, Mrs Jean Liddicoat and Mr Ted Sergison, based on a pocket watch found at the crash site in 1970, which had stopped at 10.10. It was finally proved that the unknown pilot was Rushmer and in May 1998 a named headstone replaced the original one.

120491

Pilot

Canadian

British

43 Squadron

After completing his training, Russell arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 1 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 43 Squadron, with Sergeants Stoodley and Toogood, at Usworth on September 28 1940. Stoodley died in a night-flying accident on October 24 and Toogood died on the 27th, probably through oxygen failure. The CO of 43 sent Russell on leave and on November 10 he was posted to Tangmere, to join 145 Squadron. Commissioned in April 1942, Russell was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He later served in the RAFVR. He died in April 2010. PO 13.4.42 FO 13.10.42 FL 13.4.44 FO (RAFVR) 15.6.48

GODFREY FREDERICK RUSSELL Lieutenant (FAA)

Pilot

British

804 Squadron

Russell, of Ewshott, entered the Royal Naval College, Dartmouth, as a cadet, and passed out on September 1 1934. He was rated as a Midshipman in the Executive Branch on May 1 1935.

BLAIR DALZEL RUSSEL FO

Pilot

Russell joined the Royal Navy in 1938 but was discovered to be under age and discharged. He joined the RAFVR in February 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745042) and was called up at the outbreak of war.

PO (AAF) 19.10.34 FO (AAF)19.4.36 FO 23.8.39 FL 12.3.40

C 1319

Sgt

He was attached to the Fleet Air Arm on March 6 1939 and carried out his elementary flying training at 20 E&RFTS, Gravesend. Russell went to No 1 FTS, Leuchars for No 3 Course, which ran from May 8 to November 4 1939. He moved to 759 (Fighter School) Squadron, for deck-landing training on HMS Argus.. On February 4 1940 Russell joined 804 Squadron. He was posted from 804 to 803 Squadron on May 23 1940, flying operations over Norway from HMS Ark Royal. He was wounded flying a Skua. A bullet grazed his right hand, struck his navel and was deflected by his parachute release disc. It then disappeared over his right shoulder, undoing his harness as it went. Russell rejoined 804 Squadron at Hatston on June 22 1940, flying Sea Gladiators on dockyard defence. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on June 27. The squadron was under RAF Fighter Command control during part of the Battle of Britain. On September 20 1940 Russell, with BIue Section of 804, embarked on the carrier HMS Furious by air and carried out fighter patrols 100 miles off Trondheim, Norway. The section disembarked by air from Furious and rejoined 804 at Hatston on September 23. In December 1940 Russell was posted to 802 Squadron, forming at Donibristle for HMS Audacity. On a collection flight from Abbotsinch to Donibristle on December 13, Russell crashed into Ben Lomond and was killed. He was 23. He is buried in Douglas Bank Cemetery, Dunfermline, Scotland.

1 (RCAF) Squadron

Born in Toronto on December 9 1917, Russel was educated at Selwyn House, Montreal and Trinity College School, Port Hope, Ontario. He worked for the Dominion Steel and Coal Co in Toronto. He learned to fly at the Montreal Flying Club in 1938, joined up at the outbreak of war and was commissioned into 115 (Auxiliary) Squadron in midSeptember 1939. Russel continued flying training in November at Trenton, moving on to Camp Borden, on Harvards. 115 Squadron was augmented by some regular pilots from No 1 peacetime squadron and became No 1 (RCAF) Squadron. It sailed for the UK on June 11 1940, arriving on the 20th. The squadron trained at Middle Wallop for six weeks and its Hurricanes were modified to UK standards. Russel was detached to RAF Uxbridge on July 10 for a short course on R/T procedure. The squadron then moved to Croydon and flew each day to Northolt for instruction with 111 Squadron, under the supervision of the AFDU. No 1 (RCAF) Squadron was declared operational on August 17 1940. Russel shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on August 26, damaged another on the 31st, probably destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged a Ju 88 on September 4, got a probable He 111 on the 15th, shared Do 17s on the 21st and 25th and destroyed a Bf 109 and a Bf 110, shared another Bf 110 and damaged a Do 17 on the 27th. He was awarded the DFC (25.10.40), one of the first two to be awarded to the RCAF in the war. Russel was repatriated to Canada on February 15 1941 and joined 118 (RCAF) Squadron at Rockliffe on March 26. He was promoted and took command of 14 (RCAF) Squadron, also at Rockliffe, on January 1 1942. He was posted away on November 27 1942 and reported to HQ RCAF, London on December 21. Russel went to 402 (RCAF) Squadron at Kenley as a supernumerary, moving later to 416 (RCAF) Squadron. On April 16 1943 he took command of 411 (RCAF) Squadron at Redhill. Russel was promoted on July 9 1943, to lead 126 (Canadian) Wing at Redhill. He completed his tour on October 15, was posted to HQ 83 Group, as Wing Commander Tactics, and awarded a Bar to the DFC (16.11.43). He dropped a rank to take command of 442 Squadron at Westhampnett on April 28 1944. He was sent to land on the first Allied airfield in Normandy on June 10, at St Croixsur-Mer, the first Spitfire pilot to land in France after D Day. Russel shared in destroying a FW 190 on the 22nd. He was re-promoted on July 8 and again took command of 126 Wing, damaging a Bf 109 on August 10. He was awarded the DSO (3.10.44). Russel led the Wing until his third tour ended on January 26 1945. In all he had flown 256 operational sorties. Russel was also awarded the C de G (Fr) with Silver Star, the Order of Orange-Nassau with Swords and the Czechoslovak War Cross. He flew home to Canada on March 12 and left the RCAF on July 3. He worked for Canada Wire and Cable, Canadair Aircraft Company and Sperry Gyroscopes before he and his wife bought a linen store in Montreal. Russel died on November 20 2007.

Midshipman 1.5.35 Sub-Lt 16.5.38 Lt 1.5.39

GRAHAM HERBERT RUSSELL 42025

PO

Pilot British

236 Squadron Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 6 1939, as a pupil pilot, at 4 E&RFTS, Brough. He moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 12 Course, which ran from July 10 to December 9 1939.

With training completed, Russell joined 236 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on December 16. On August 21 1940 he damaged a Ju 88. On a patrol on September 23, Russell, with Sergeant J E Goldsmith as his gunner, shot down a He 111. Two days later, with Goldsmith as gunner and Sergeant D E Pearson as observer, Russell shot down a Do 18 flying boat over St George’s Channel. On November 6 1940 his Blenheim was hit by anti-aircraft fire following the destruction of a Do 24 twenty miles NW of Brest. Russell returned to St Eval with one member of his crew, Sergeant Pearson, wounded in the eye and arm. Russell was awarded the DFC (26.11.40). On December 12 Russell’s Blenheim, L 3602, was damaged by return fire from a He 115 floatplane, upon which he inflicted some damage. He made a crash-landing on return to St Eval. Russell left the RAF on August 31 1942 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1981.

PO 15.9.39 FO 1.8.40 FL 1.8.41 SL 1.1.43

APO 29.4.39 PO 16.12.39 FO 16.12.40 FL 16.12.41

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HUMPHREY a’BECKETT RUSSELL 37692

FL

Pilot

British

reported ‘Missing’. The International Red Cross later reported that Russell had been killed. He was originally buried in the Central Cemetery, Mannheim but was later re-interred in the Durnbach War Cemetery.

32 Squadronon Born on September 1 1913, Russell was at Marlborough College from 1927 to 1931. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on January 27 1936, as a pupil pilot.

CHARLES ALAN RUST 905074

Sgt

Pilot

British

85 and 249 Squadronss

With training completed, he was posted to 9 FTS, Thornaby on April 4 and he joined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on October 11 1936. Russell went to SHQ RAF Biggin Hill on July 13 1938. He rejoined 32 Squadron on August 14 1940 and was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on the 16th. He destroyed a Bf 110 on the 18th. During the combat over Biggin Hill, a cannon shell exploded in his cockpit. Russell baled out, seriously wounded in the leg and was admitted to Edenbridge Hospital. His Hurricane, V 7363, crashed at Skeynes Park Farm, Edenbridge. In April 1941 Russell took command of 32 Squadron. He was posted to 118 Squadron at Ibsley in October 1941, to command, and led it until January 1942. Russell commanded 128 Squadron at Hastings, Sierra Leone from August 1942 to March 8 1943. Back in the UK, he took command of 164 Squadron at Fairlop. Russell was shot down on May 28 1944 over Torcy, France. He baled out and became a PoW, number and camp unknown. He was awarded the DFC (19.5.44). He retired from the RAF on February 17 1958 as a Wing Commander. Russell died on February 15 1983.

Rust joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on July 12 1937. He completed his training but his commission was terminated on May 27 1938.

APO 23.3.36 WC 1.10.46

37291

PO 27.1.37

FO 27.10.38

FL 10.5.40

SL 1.12.41

Rust joined the RAFVR in October 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He went initially to 11 Group Pool, St Athan and joined 145 Squadron at Croydon from there on October 31 1939, flying Blenheims. He was posted away to 604 Squadron at Northolt in March 1940 but he rejoined 145 Squadron on April 7, still at Croydon but re-equipped with Hurricanes in his absence. On May 13 1940 Rust was posted to France and he joined 85 Squadron at Lille/Seclin. The squadron was withdrawn to Debden on May 22. On July 12 he shared in damaging a He 111. Rust moved to 249 Squadron at North Weald on September 11 1940. He flew his final sortie with 249 on September 15. He was posted from 249 to RAF North Weald on October 15 1940, as non-effective sick. No other service details traced. APO 5.9.37

PAUL RUSTON

WC 5.10.45

PO

Pilot

British

604 Squadron

On September 16 1935 Ruston relinquished his RAFR commission, on being granted an RAF short service commission. On October 7 he was posted to 215 Squadron at Worthy Down, with Vickers Virginias. He joined the staff of 604 Squadron, AAF on August 13 1936 and joined the instructing staff at 9 FTS, Hullavington on August 16 1937. Ruston was posted to 604 Squadron at Gravesend on July 10 1940. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down, on attachment, on the 10th and after converting to Blenheims, he rejoined the squadron on August 6. He was posted from 604 and joined HQ 10 Group on January 9 1941. Ruston was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Wing Commander. He died on January 11 1954.

With the course completed, he went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum for No 7 Course, from May 20 to June 22 1940. Russell arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 23. After converting to Defiants, he joined 141 Squadron at Turnhouse on July 10 and was attached to RAF Uxbridge on the 19th, for a short R/T course. He flew some daylight convoy patrols in August and made his first night patrol on October 3. Russell continued to fly operationally with 141 throughout October and until mid-November but there is no mention of him in December in the squadron ORB. Possibly he was posted away. No further service details traced.

PO (RAFR) 30.1.34 FO (RAFR) 30.7 35 SL 1.12.40 WC 1.7.43

PO 16.9.35

FO 13.4.37

FL 13.4.39

ROBERT DURHAM RUTTER

APO 9.10.39 FO 15.5.40

42574

LESLIE PLIMMER RUSSELL Sgt

British

141 Squadronn

Russell joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 8 1939. He moved on to 11 FTS, Shawbury for No 16 Course, which ran from October 23 1939 to May 11 1940.

NZ 40209

Pilot

Ruston was commissioned in the Special Reserve of the RAF Reserve in January 1934 and joined 503 (Special Reserve) Squadron at Waddington. Flying a Handley Page Hinaidi in late 1934, Ruston reached an altitude of 18,500 feet.

JOHN TREVOR RUSSELL 42769

FL

Air Gunner

New Zealander

PO

Pilot

British

73 Squadron

Rutter was born on August 3 1919 at Gosforth, Newcastleupon-Tyne. He was brought up in Belgium and educated at the Collège St Michel and the Athenaeum at Brussels.

264 Sqdn

Russell was born in Marton on August 18 1916 and educated at the High School there. He first applied to join the RNZAF in April 1936 but after repeated further applications, he was unsuccessful until late 1939, when he was accepted as a trainee air gunner.

Rutter joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 26 1939 at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty. He was posted to 14 FTS, Kinloss on September 1 and with the course completed, he went to 11 Group Pool, St Athan on February 28 1940. He was posted to 10 MU, Hullavington. On April 27 he delivered a Gladiator to 24 MU, Ternhill. He then went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, where he converted to Hurricanes. He was posted to 73 Squadron in France on May 11 and joined it at Rouvres on the 13th. Rutter flew with it until the squadron was withdrawn to Church Fenton on June 18. He received a Mention in Despatches. On September 5 1940 Rutter was shot down in a surprise attack by Bf 109s, whilst intercepting a Ju 88. He baled out and was admitted to Billericay Hospital with a bullet in the ankle. His Hurricane, P 3110, crashed at Seaman’s Lane, West Hanningfield. He was made non effective sick. He returned to the squadron in plaster on September 19 and flew no further sorties during the Battle. Rutter was posted to 17 Squadron at Croydon on March 3 1941, staying until June 26. He was with the Defence Flight at Takoradi from July 22 1941 until November 4 1942, when he left for the UK, going to 56 OTU, Tealing on January 13 1943, as Chief Flying Instructor. After three weeks at the Fighter Leaders’ School at Aston Down, Rutter joined 195 Squadron at Fairlop on December 2 1943, as a Flight Commander. When the squadron was disbanded on February 18 1944, he went to 183 Squadron at Tangmere.

On January 15 1940 Russell went to the Ground Training School at Weraroa. He moved to the Air Observers’ School at Ohakea on February 9, for a Lewis gunnery course. Russell sailed for the UK on March 23 in the SS Akaroa. He joined 264 Squadron at Duxford on June 4 and continued his training. Russell was awarded his air gunner’s badge on July 26 and was promoted to Sergeant the next day. On August 21 the squadron went down to Hornchurch, for what proved to be its final spell of day-fighting. On the 24th Russell and his pilot, Pilot Officer M H Young, damaged a Ju 88 and on a later patrol destroyed a He 111. After suffering severe losses, the squadron withdrew to Kirton-in-Lindsey to resume night patrols. On an intruder patrol to Lille on the night of May 8 1941, Russell, again flying with Young, shot down a Bf 110. In early November 1941 Russell was posted to a Heavy Conversion Unit at Waterbeach. After crewing-up and converting to Halifaxes, he joined 35 Squadron at Linton-on-Ouse in mid-December. Russell was rear gunner of a Halifax, which took off to raid Mannheim on the evening of May 19 1942, his ninth operation. The aircraft, W 1101 failed to return and the crew was

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

Ryder was shot down by Bf 109s during a squadron patrol on September 27 and he baled out, unhurt. His Spitfire, R 6755, crashed and burned out at East Malling. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on October 25 and destroyed two more on the 30th and November 27. In January 1941 Ryder was given command of 56 Squadron at North Weald. He was posted away to 53 OTU, Llandow on June 22 1941, to be CFI, as an Acting Wing Commander. He left there on being appointed Wing Leader at Kenley on September 30 1941. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (29.7.41). Ryder was shot down by flak in October, leading an escort for Hurricanes on a lowlevel shipping strike, and captured. He escaped from his prison camp and reached Poland but was recaptured in 1943. At some time he was in Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 658). Released in May 1945, Ryder received a Mention in Despatches (28.12.45), for distinguished service whilst a PoW. He was made a member of the Order of Orange-Nassau and a CBE (1.1.58). Ryder retired from the RAF on October 28 1960 as a Group Captain. His portrait was drawn by Cuthbert Orde in January 1941. He died in 1995.

Rutter took command of 263 Squadron at Harrowbeer on April 9. He led the squadron to France on August 6 1944 and was awarded the DFC (1.9.44) and the C de G (Fr). On January 3 1945 Rutter was posted to the Directing Staff at the School of Air Support at Old Sarum. He went into RAF Hospital, Wraughton on February 5 1946, with tuberculosis, and remained there until late December. Rutter, who had been given a Permanent Commission in 1946, was invalided out in 1947 as a Squadron Leader. He died in October 1998. APO 19.8.39 PO 28.2.40 FO 28.2.41 FL 28.2.42

BROWNE RYALL 746911

Corporal

Radar Operator

British

29 Squadron

Ryall, of Redbourn, Hertfordshire, joined the RAFVR about April 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer. Called up on September 1, he did not complete his training but joined 29 Squadron as an AC radar operator in June 1940. Promoted to Corporal in August, Ryall flew 16 operational sorties during the period of the Battle of Britain. He was promoted to Sergeant later and flew his first sortie in a Beaufighter on November 22 1940. During the night of March 13/14 1941, Ryall was flying with Wing Commander S C Widdows, when they shot down a Ju 88. On the night of May 6/7, again with Widdows, Ryall was ordered to bale out after their Beaufighter was damaged by a Ju 88, intercepted over the Channel. Widdows got the aircraft back to base but a search found no trace of Ryall. He was 25 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 51.

APO 24.8.36

FRANTISEK RYPL 81900

PO

Pilot

British

FIU

Ryalls damaged a Ju 87 near Ford in daylight on August 18 1940. He was commissioned on September 2 and damaged a Bf 110 on October 7, when his Blenheim was attacked by three of them and his gunner, Sergeant E F le Conte fired a burst at one. Still with FIU, Ryalls destroyed a Do 217 on April 5 1942. In 1944 he was with 219 Squadron, possibly as a Flight Commander. During the night of July 25/26 1944 he damaged a Do 217, on August 7 he destroyed a Ju 188 and on August 11 he destroyed a Ju 88. Ryalls was killed on December 26 1944, shot down in Mosquito MM 705 by a Ju 88 night fighter of II/NJG 2. His aircraft crashed at Holsbeck, Belgium. Ryalls was an Acting Squadron Leader with 219 Squadron, operating from Amiens-Glisy. His radar operator, Flight Lieutenant J B Hampson, was also killed. Ryalls was 32. He and Hampson are buried in Brussels Town Cemetery. PO 2.9.40 FO 26.8.41 FL 26.8.42

EDGAR NORMAN RYDER FL

Pilot

British

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

310 Squadron

In October 1923 he joined the Military Academy in Hranice. He graduated from here in August 1925 and was posted to the 52nd Artillery Regiment. In October of that year he was sent to the Artillery School at Olomouc. From July 1926 he was posted to the Stribro battery III section of the 2nd Artillery Regiment. In November 1928 he was sent to the Military Aviation Academy, at Prost jov, for training as as an air observer and here decided to remain in the Air Force. In November 1929 he was assigned to the 64th Squadron of the 3rd Air Regiment based at Vajnory, Slovakia. Between November 1930 to December 1932 he completed several courses, including fighter pilot training, at the Military Aviation Academies at Olomouc, Prostejov and Cheb. He then returned to the 3rd Air Regiment and was rapidly promoted to Adjutant Commander of the 3rd Squadron, junior Commander of 39th Squadron and Lieutenant Colonel of the Training Squadron. In July 1935 he was appointed Commander of the Air Defence Unit for the Hradec Kralove region. At the end of September 1938 he was assigned to the Ministry of the Interior. After the German occupation of Czechoslovakia, on March 15 1939, the Czechoslovak Air Force was disbanded by the Germans and all personnel dismissed. In January 1940 Rypl escaped through Slovakia, Hungary and Yugoslavia where, with other escaped Czechoslovak military airmen, he boarded a ship which took them to Beruit and then onto Marseille. In France they were taken to the Czechoslovak Depot at Agde. Before Rypl was accepted into l’Armée de l’Air, Germany invaded France and the rapid advance forced the French to retreat westwards. With the French capitulation imminent, the Czechoslovak airmen were released from French military service so that they could be evacuated. With other Czechoslovak airmen Rypl managed to reach the Mérignac airbase at Bordeaux. On June 17, with a group of thirty eight Czechoslovak airmen, he boarded the last BOAC flight to leave the bomb damaged airbase. They landed at Hendon. Shortly after arrival in England Rypl was transferred to the Czechoslovak Airmen’s Depot at Cosford. He was accepted into the RAF Volunteer reserve and posted, on July 12 to 310 Squadron. Here he was re-trained to fly Hurricanes and when the squadron was declared operational, on August 17 he flew, on its first operational patrol. On September 9, flying Hurricane P 3142 he was in combat with a Bf 109 south of London. He was shot down and made a forced landing near Oxted. On December 11 1940 he was posted to 4 Ferry Pilot Pool at Kemble where he stayed until May 1941. He was then posted to the Czechoslovak Inspectorate General, in London. In December 1941 he went to the Military Office of the Czechoslovak President. He returned to flying and, after retraining on Beaufighters and for night flying, was posted to 307 Squadron. Rypl’s operational flying finished following an accident at the end of a night training flight on November 8 1942. He was returning to Exeter after an exercise in conjuction with a searchlight battery. Due to poor visibility he overshot the runway and hit a tree. In the crash his radar operator was killed and Rypl was seriously injured. In February 1943 he returned to duties with the Military Office of the Czechoslovak President. In August 1944 he requested a transfer to the 1st Czechoslovak Air Regiment in Russia. Rypl arrived in Russia on September 28 1944 and was assigned to the 1st Czechoslovak Air Regiment equipped with Il-2 aircraft. On May 9 1945 he became the first Czechoslovak airmen to return to Prague, along with Russian airmen of Pe-2 Air Regiment.

Ryalls joined the RAF in September 1934, as an Aircrafthand (517928). He later applied for pilot training and was selected. He was serving with 29 Squadron at Debden in December 1939 and was posted away in April 1940, to join the Fighter Interception Unit, then forming at Tangmere.

39193

PO

Rypl was born on April 2 1903 at Cesky Krumlov.

DERRICK LANG RYALLS 44601

PO 24.8.37 FO 24.2.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 22.9.41 WC 1.7.47 GC 1.7.56

41 Squadron Born at Risalpur, India on November 28 1914, Ryder returned to England as a boy of ten. He joined the Royal Fusiliers at Hounslow in 1931 and served until 1934, then becoming a mathematics master at Tredennick School, Worcester.

Ryder joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 24 1936. He went to 9 FTS, Thornaby on October 31 and with training completed, he joined 41 Squadron at Catterick on June 30 1937. Ryder was posted from 41 to SHQ Catterick on February 7 1939, for admin duties. He rejoined the squadron on July 22 1939. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on the 28th and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on September 21. Still with the squadron, Ryder took off alone on April 3 1940, in bad visibility and low cloud, to investigate an enemy aircraft. He sighted a He 111 and shot it down into the sea. His own aircraft was losing power and he came down on the sea, his aircraft sinking immediately. At considerable depth he extricated himself, struggled to the surface and was picked up by a trawler. He was awarded the DFC (18.4.40). On August 15 Ryder probably destroyed a Ju 88, on September 5 he destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another, on the 6th he destroyed another, on the 7th got a probable Bf 109 and damaged a Do 17, on the 9th he destroyed a Bf 109, on the 10th damaged a Ju 88 and on the 15th shared a Do 17.

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Rypl’s post war career was in the Czechoslovak Air Force but very influenced by the USSR. From September 1 1945 he studied at the USSR Supreme Military Academy in Moscow. He returned from Moscow in August 1947 and was appointed Commander of the Military Academy at Hradec Kralove. Following the Communist take-over in February 1948, the Czechoslovaks who had fought for the Allies were regarded as being tainted by capitalism and many were arrested, imprisoned and subjected to other persecution. Rypl was one of the few former RAF

airmen who collaborated with the new regime. He remained as Commander at Hradec Kralove until June 1951 when he was posted to the Aviation Research Institute as Deputy Commander and became its Commander in April 1952. Over the next twenty years he received various promotions and higher levels of Command. He died in a flying accident in a Mig-15 jet aircraft on January 10 1974. PO 12.7.40 FO 1.12.40 FL 1.3.41

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S HERBERT SAMUEL SADLER 44825

F/Sgt

Pilot

British

squadron, 616, was formed by Squadron Leader the Earl of Lincoln at Doncaster. St Aubyn transferred from 503, to be one of the first two officers in 616. Called to full-time service on August 24 1939, he completed his training and he rejoined 616 before June 1 1940. On this day he was patrolling with the squadron over Dunkirk. On August 26 in Spitfire, R 7018, his glycol system was damaged by a Bf 109 over Dungeness and St Aubyn made a crash-landing on the perimeter of Eastchurch aerodrome, where the aircraft burned out. He was admitted to Minster County Hospital, with burns. St Aubyn was killed on May 27 1943, as a Squadron Leader with 170 Squadron, operating in Mustangs on army co-operation duties. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 119.

611 Squadron

Sadler, of Westcliff-on-Sea, was born in 1916. He joined the RAF in January 1932, as an Aircraft Apprentice (565964) and passed out in December 1934. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. In 1939 it seems that he was serving as a staff pilot at No 1 Electrical and Wireless School, Cranwell. On September 21 1939 Sadler joined 611 Squadron at Duxford. On April 2 1940 Sadler was promoted to Flight Sergeant. Over Dunkirk on June 2, he probably destroyed a Bf 110. On September 11 he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed over Gravesend and on the 15th he shared in the destruction of a Do 17 in the London area. Commissioned in early November 1940, Sadler was killed on February 5 1941, still with 611 and aged 24. His aircraft was badly damaged during a sortie over the French coast. Losing height rapidly, with his engine on fire, Sadler seemed unable to get out of the cockpit. He finally slumped over the controls and the Spitfire dived into the sea. Sadler is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial Panel 34.

PO (AAF) 1.7.37 FO (AAF) 10.6.39 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.3.42

RONALD GODFREY St JAMES-SMITH 551203

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

600 Squadron

St James-Smith joined the RAF on September 21 1936, as a Boy Entrant. He later remustered to Airman u/t Air Gunner and with training completed, he was on 18 Squadron in France by October 14 1939, as an LAC Air Gunner on Blenheims. The squadron was with the AASF from the outbreak of war.

PO 5.11.40

NORMAN ALFRED SADLER 82732

PO Observer

British

235 Squadron

On April 30 1940 he was on a reconnaissance sortie. The pilot landed by accident at Evere in Belgium and the three crew members were interned. They were released after the Germans invaded on May 10. On May 15 St James-Smith took off from Vitry on a reconnaissance sortie. The Blenheim later returned to base, with the pilot, Sergeant A W S Thomas wounded. He subsequently died. From July 4 1940 St James-Smith began operating as Squadron Leader H L Maxwell’s air gunner. When Maxwell was posted from 18 Squadron to command 600 Squadron at Redhill on September 16 1940, he took St James-Smith with him. When Maxwell was posted away on December 15 1940, St James-Smith rejoined 18 Squadron. He was killed on April 13 1941, as a Flight Sergeant with 18, operating in Blenheims from Great Massingham, Norfolk. His Blenheim, L 9274, was on an anti-shipping operation. It was last seen off the Dutch coast. It is believed to have been shot down near Schiermonnikoog, Holland. The bodies of the other two members of the crew were recovered and they are buried in Sage War Cemetery. St James-Smith is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 37.

Sadler joined the RAFVR in August 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (755971). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training, was commissioned and arrived at No 1(C) OTU on July 28 1940. After some training on Blenheims, he was posted to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on August 14. On December 16 1940 Sadler was a member of the crew of Blenheim Z 5754, on a minesweeper-escort operation. He, Pilot Officer J Coggins, pilot, and Sergeant P R Prosser, gunner, were all lost when the aircraft crashed into the sea, cause unknown. He is buried in the Military Cemetery of St Andrew, Bircham Newton. PO 28.7.40

EDWARD FITZROY St AUBYN 90055

FL

Pilot British

616 Squadron

Born on March 12 1907, St Aubyn was educated at Eton and was commissioned in the Supplementary Reserve of Officers of the Grenadier Guards on January 16 1926, as a 2nd Lieutenant. He was granted a Regular Army commission in the Grenadier Guards on March 12 1928, as a 2nd Lieutenant and he was gazetted Lieutenant on March 12 1931.

PETER CAPE BEAUCHAMP St JOHN 40320

FO

Pilot

British

74 Squadron

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on September 27 1937. St John was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney on December 11 and with training completed he joined 87 Squadron at Debden on July 9 1938.

He resigned his commission and was recommissioned in the Grenadier Guards (Regular Army Reserve of Officers) on September 22 1933, as a Lieutenant. St Aubyn resigned his Army Reserve commission when he was commissioned in 503 Squadron, AAF n July 1937. On November 1 1938 503 was disbanded and from it a new

He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on March 23 1940. After converting to Spitfires, he

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

joined 76 Squadron at Middleton St George soon afterwards, to fly as a rear gunner in Halifaxes. Salway flew his first operation with 76 on the night of May 22/23 1942, a raid on St Nazaire. On May 30 he took part in a raid on Cologne, in the first 1000 Bomber Raid. On an operation to Emden on June 20/21 1942, Salway’s Halifax was shot down. The aircraft, W 1114, was hit by flak and then attacked by a night fighter. Five of the crew baled out. Salway’s clip-on parachute pack was not available, probably due to damage to the aircraft. In desperation, he left the aircraft, clinging to the midupper gunner, Sergeant D S Smith. After a while, Smith managed to pull the rip-cord but the resulting jerk of the parachute opening caused Salway to lose his grip on his companion and he fell away to his death. His body was found 3 Km SSE of Ulrum. Salway was 22. He lies in Ulrum Cemetery, Netherlands, alongside his pilot, Pilot Officer H Norfolk, and the wireless operator, Sergeant W H Charlesworth. The other four members of the crew were made PoW.

joined 501 Squadron at Tangmere on April 28 and he then moved to 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on May 7. Over Dunkirk on the 27th, he shared in destroying a Do 17. On July 10 St John damaged two Bf 109s and on the 28th he damaged another. He was admitted to Princess Mary’s RAF Hospital, Halton on August 9 1940 and was non-effective sick until the 26th. He made his next flight on the 27th, on AA co-operation. On September 11 St John destroyed a He 111 and on October 17 he destroyed a Bf 109. He was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 109s on October 22. His Spitfire, P 7431, crashed at South Nutfield, Surrey. St John was 23. He is buried in St Mary’s churchyard, Amersham, Buckinghamshire.

HAROLD NIGEL EGERTON SALMON 70596

FO

Pilot

British

1 and 229 Squadrons

Salmon learned to fly with the RAFO. He was commissioned in Class ‘AA’ (section i) on June 8 1933 and did his training at 2 E&RFTS, Filton. He transferred to Class ‘C’ of the RAFO on June 8 1935 and went back to Class AA on June 8 1937.

WLODZIMIERZ MICHAL CZECH SAMOLINSKI 76709

WILLIAM NOEL COMPTON SALMOND Pilot

British

Polish

253 Squadron

After the fall of Poland, Samolinski escaped to France via Romania, arrived in England in late 1939 and was commissioned in the RAFVR at RAF Eastchurch on January 27 1940. Samolinski was at 15 EFTS in March 1940. He was later at the Polish Training Unit at Hucknall, which was redesignated 18 OTU on June 15 1940. Samolinski was posted from there to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 23. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 253 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on July 16. He claimed Bf 110s destroyed on August 30 and September 4. Samolinski failed to return from combat over the Channel on September 26 1940. He was believed to have crashed into the sea and was reported ‘Missing’. Samolinski is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt. He was awarded the VM (5th Class)(1.2.41).

PO (RAFO) 8.6.33 FO (RAFO) 8.12.34 FO 10.9.39 FL 1.12.41

PO

Pilot

Samolinski was born on October 14 1916. After completing High School, he entered the Polish Air Force College at Deblin. With his training completed, he was commissioned on October 15 1938, as a 2nd Lieutenant, and posted to 122 Eskadra of the 2nd Air Regiment at Cracow.

He was called to full-time service on September 9 1939 and went at once to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 14 Course, which ran until January 27 1940. He arrived at 11 Group Pool on February 1. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to No 1 Squadron in France on March 6 and joined it at Vassincourt on May 17. He claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed on July 25 and a Bf 110 destroyed on August 16. Salmon made his final flight with No 1 on October 1 1940, local flying practice. He joined 229 Squadron at Northolt on the 3rd and made his first sortie with it on October 5, a patrol. On November 18 1941 Salmon was dismissed the service by General Court Martial. Salmon joined the ATA in late 1942, with the rank of Captain. On December 6 1943 he took off from Dorval, Montreal, in Mitchell FW 159, bound for Reykjavik, Iceland. The aircraft staged through Goose Bay, Labrador and then disappeared. A search was made but no trace of aircraft or crew was ever found. Salmon was 36 years old. He is remembered on the Ottawa Memorial, Panel 3, Column 2.

40947

PO

64 Squadron PO 27.1.40

Salmond was born on December 19 1916. He served in the Royal Corps of Signals in the 1930s and was awarded the Palestine Medal. On May 16 1938 Salmond transferred to the RAF on a short service commission. He did his ab initio course at 3 E&RFTS, Hamble, moving to 3 FTS, South Cerney on July 23.

JOHN SAMPLE 90278

ERNEST SALWAY Air Gunner

British

British

504 Squadron

Leading a section of three Gladiators on October 16, Sample sighted and attacked a Do 18 flying boat twenty-five miles out to sea. Severely damaged, the enemy aircraft crashed into the sea fifty miles out and the crew was captured by a trawler. On November 13 1939 607 flew from Acklington to Croydon and two days later to Merville in France. During the fighting in May 1940, Sample destroyed a He 111 on the 10th and shared in the destruction of another. On the 11th he damaged a He 111 and was shot down himself, baling out safely. The squadron was withdrawn to Croydon on May 21. Sample was given command of 504 Squadron at Wick on May 29 1940. He was awarded the DFC (4.6.40). On September 7 Sample damaged a Do 17, on the 11th he shared in the probable destruction of a Do 17 and on the 15th he shared in the destruction of a He 111 and a Do 17. In March 1941 Sample was posted away from 504. He was given the job of forming 137 Squadron at Charmy Down in September 1941 and commanded the squadron until October 28, when he was killed in a flying accident. In Whirlwind P 7053, he collided with another Whirlwind and crashed at Manor Farm, Englishcombe, Bath. Sample was 28. He is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Bothal, Ashington, Northumberland. His name is on a memorial plaque unveiled at Lancing College in 2014..

APO 9.7.38 PO 15.3.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.12.41

Sgt

Pilot

Sample, of Morpeth, was born in 1913 and attended Lancing College. He was an estate agent in civilian life. He joined 607 Squadron, AAF in 1934. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on January 7 1939 and he was called to full-time service on August 24.

With training completed, Salmond was posted to CFS, Upavon on March 6 1939, for an instructor’s course, after which he went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton. On December 12 he was posted to 5 BGS, Jurby, as a staff pilot. From May 26 1940 Salmond was attached to various MUs. He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on October 6 and, after converting to Spitfires, he joined 64 Squadron at Coltishall on the 26th. During a formation practice on the 30th, Salmond’s section was vectored on to a Bf 110, which was intercepted and damaged, changing the flight into an authorised operational sortie and qualifying him for the Battle of Britain clasp. He was credited with a share of the damage inflicted. On January 29 1941 Salmond was posted to No 1 FTS, Netheravon, as an instructor. He returned to operations on May 16, joining 611 Squadron at Hornchurch. He destroyed two Bf 109s in the Hazebrouck area on June 22 1941. He went to 11 Group Flight at Hornchurch on July 21 1941. Salmond later commanded a Defiant unit. He was released from the RAF in 1946 and died on September 26 1985. .

749368

SL

141 Squadron

Salway, of North Wingfield, Derbyshire, joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his gunnery training and was with 141 Squadron at Turnhouse in June 1940. Whilst with 141, Salway flew with Sergeant R C Hamer His last recorded sortie with 141 was made on November 22 1940 and in mid-December he joined 255 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey, recently reformed with night-fighter Defiants. In late July 1941 Salway joined 406 (RCAF) Squadron, later moving to 1484 Flight, a target-towing unit. In early May 1942 he was briefly with 158 Squadron at Driffield but

PO (AAF) 27.4.34 FO (AAF) 27.10.35 FL (AAF) 10.1.39 FL 24.8.39 SL 1.9.40

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

ARTHUR SAMPSON 522757

Sgt Air

Gunner

British

command of 92 Squadron at Northolt on May 25 1940. Over Dunkirk on June 2 he destroyed two He 111s. On September 9 he destroyed a He 111 and probably a Bf 109, on the 11th he destroyed a Bf 109 and a He 111 and probably another Bf 109, on the 15th he destroyed a Do 17 and on the 20th a Bf 109. After this engagement near Dover, Sanders headed back to Biggin Hill. His aircraft was damaged in the action and he had some petrol on his clothes, where his batman had used it to remove an oil stain. After landing, he lit a cigarette, ignited some of his clothing and suffered relatively minor burns. Sanders flew no more operational sorties with 92 and he was posted away to HQ 11 Group on October 3 and joined the Air Staff on the 8th. He was awarded the DFC (8.11.40). In June 1941 he took command of 264 Squadron at Colerne. In early 1942 he went to the USA, as a fighter test pilot at Wright Field, Dayton, Ohio. Back in the UK, he joined the staff of HQ 84 Group, remaining there until the end of the war. He retired from the RAF on April 3 1962 as a Group Captain, retaining the rank of Air Commodore. Sanders died in January 1989.

23 Squadron

Joined the RAF on August 13 1935 and trained as a Fitter I. Before the war Sampson served with 204 Squadron at Mount Batten, Plymouth and 217 Squadron at Wittering. He had done part-time duty as an air gunner and at the outbreak of war, he went on permanent duty as such. Sampson was with 23 Squadron at Ford during the Battle of Britain. He later served with 40 Squadron at Wyton and at No 1 Air Armament School at Manby. He received a Mention in Despatches (11.6.42) and was awarded the BEM, whilst stationed at 21 OTU, Moreton-in-Marsh, for his efforts in maintaining maximun serviceability during the 1000 bomber raids. Sampson was released from the RAF in October 1946, as a Flight Sergeant.

JAMES GILBERT SANDERS 37510

FL

Pilot

British

PO 3.3.36 FO 3.6.36 FL 3.6.38 SL 1.6.40 WC 1.12.41 WC 1.10.46 GC 1.1.52

615 and 253 Sqns, 421 Flt, FIU, 422 Flt Sanders was born in Richmond, Surrey on June 19 1914. He was educated in Italy until the age of 19. He returned from there and later joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on November 25 1935.

ALFRED KEMP SANDIFER 156361

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

604 Squadron

Sandifer joined 604 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand (804127). Called up on August 24 1939, he remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner, completed his training and was entitled to wear the new Air Gunner badge from February 29 1940. He was then a Corporal.

He was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on February 1 1936 and with training completed, he joined 111 Squadron on August 10. On October 4 1939 Sanders joined 615 Squadron at Croydon, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. On November 15 he led his flight, when 615’s Gladiators flew to Merville in company with those of 607. Sanders was flying a weather test on December 29 1939, when he sighted a He 111. Having chased it up to 23,000 feet and used up all his ammunition, he lost it in cloud. So ended 615 Squadron’s first encounter with the Luftwaffe. On May 17 1940 Sanders destroyed a Ju 88 near Lille, one of three enemy aircraft he claimed whilst in France. The squadron withdrew to Kenley on the 20th. He was made ‘G’ Flight Commander on May 23. It was made up of six Gladiators. The flight went immediately to Manston, where it was attached to 604 Squadron for operations. The flight returned to Kenley on the 30th and was disbanded. Sanders was awarded the DFC (4.6.40). He destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged another on June 22, was decorated by the King at Kenley on the 27th and probably shot down a Bf 109 on the 30th. Sanders damaged two He 111s on August 16, destroyed a He 111 and a Ju 88 and shared another Ju 88 on the 18th, shot down a Ju 88 and damaged a He 111 during the night of August 24/25. Sanders remained at Kenley when 615 was posted to Prestwick on August 29. He was attached to 253 Squadron and flew three night sorties with it, on September 9, 13 and 25. In the early hours of the 25th he destroyed a He 111. The attachment to 253 ceased on September 28 and Sanders was then attached to 66 Squadron at Gravesend, to help form 421 Flight. In 421’s ORB he is listed as one of 421’s original pilots. After a few days he was attached to FIU. On October 14 1940 Sanders was given command of 422 Flight, which was attached to FIU at Shoreham. The Flight formed the nucleus of 96 Squadron on its formation at Cranage on December 18 1940. Sanders was made a Flight Commander in the new squadron. In January 1941 he went to 257 Squadron but moved to 255 Squadron at Kirton-inLindsey in February. During the nights of March 11/12 and 13/14th, Sanders probably destroyed He 111s and on April 7/8 he damaged a Ju 88. On June 23 1941 he was posted away to 60 OTU, East Fortune and in September he became Squadron Leader Flying there. In June 1942 he was made Wing Commander Flying at 53 OTU, Llandow and later at 61 OTU, Rednal. Sanders was later Station Commander at Hunsdon, Zeals and Hutton Cranswick. Sanders was with the SHAEF mission in 1944/5 and was in Brussels at the end of the war. He went out to the Far East and at some time he was OC Flying at Mingaladon airfield, Rangoon. He returned to the UK in 1947 and was released from the RAF as a Wing Commander. Sanders went into the insurance business, with Crown Life of Canada. He died in August 2002.

On June 19 Sandifer damaged a He 111. He was with 604 Squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. With the advent of the Beaufighter, he retrained as a Radio Observer. On December 12 1940, flying with Flight Lieutenant H Speke, he assisted in damaging a He 111. In May 1941 Sandifer was posted away to 109 Squadron, which was formed from the Wireless Intelligence Development Unit at Boscombe Down, concerned with the development of radio counter-measures and new radar aids. Commissioned in July 1943, Sandifer was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1990. PO 27.7.43 FO 27.1.44 FL 27.7.45

ROBERT EDWARD BUTLER SARGENT 122024

Sgt

Pilot

British

219 Squadron

Sargent joined the RAFVR about October 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742297) and he carried out his elementary training at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell. Called up on September 1 1939, he went to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 17 Course, which ran from December 9 1939 to May 26 1940. He went to 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 27. After converting to Blenheims, Sargent joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on June 17 and was with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. He was attached to RAF Debden in early December 1940, for a short AI course. Commissioned in May 1942, Sargent was awarded the AFC (3.4.45). He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He served with the RAFVR after the war. Sargent died in 1992. PO 1.5.42 FO 1.11.42 FL 1.5.44 FO (RAFVR) 11.2.48

ALFRED RICHARD SARRE 197053

Sgt

Pilot

British

603 Squadrons

APO 20.1.36 PO 25.11.36 FO 25.8.38 FL 25.8.40 SL 1.9.41 WC 1.7.44 Sarre joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745543). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 15 FTS, Lossiemouth on No 6 Course, which ran from December 29 1939 to June 10 1940.

PHILLIP JAMES SANDERS 36057

SL

Pilot

British

92 Squadron He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 10 and after converting to Spitfires, Sarre was posted to 263 Squadron at Grangemouth on June 23. He converted to Hurricanes after joining 263. He moved to 603 Squadron ‘A’ Flight at Turnhouse on July 3 1940. He made his first flight on the 6th. After a combat over Deal on a morning sortie on August 30, Sarre returned to Hornchurch, with damage to the tail of his Spitfire, R 6754. In the afternoon, on a later sortie, he probably destroyed a Bf 109. He then had his aircraft’s tail shot off in combat.

Born on May 1 1911, in Brampton, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, Sanders was educated at Cheltenham College and Balliol College, Oxford. He joined the RAF with a direct-entry Permanent Commission, as a University Entrant in March 1936, carried out his flying training at 5 FTS, Sealand and joined No 1 Squadron at Tangmere on October 11 1936. Sanders was posted to RAF Hornchurch on August 1 1939, for Ops duties. He took

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During the last two weeks of April 1942, Satchell and Squadron Leader I B Westmacott set up a pair of Vickers machine-guns on Ta Kali airfield. Using these, Satchell claimed a Bf 109 destroyed, another Bf 109 and a Ju 87 probably destroyed and five Bf 109s, four Ju 88s and three Ju 87s damaged in the two-week period. On May 1 1942 Satchell went to Air HQ Malta. He was awarded the DSO (6.10.42) and took no further part in operations. On leaving Malta, Satchell was posted to the Middle East and in June 1943 he took command of 73 OTU, Abu Sueir, Egypt, as a Group Captain. In late 1950 Satchell was awarded the Polonia Rostituta, the highest award possible from the Polish Government-in-Exile in London. The only other Britons so honoured were Churchill, Dowding and Portal. Satchell retired from the RAF on July 1 1956 as a Group Captain. He died in March 1986.

He baled out, unhurt. His Spitfire, R 7021, crashed at Addington Park, near West Malling. On September 4 he made a forced-landing at Elstead, near Ashford after his engine failed, in Spitfire X 4263. Sarre was shot down in combat over the Thames on the 7th and baled out, slightly wounded, from Spitfire P 9467. He was admitted to hospital and rejoined 603 on September 11. His experiences caused him severe trauma and he did not fly operationally again. On November 9 1940 Sarre was posted to CFS Upavon, for a flying instructors’ course. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in February 1945, Sarre was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flying Officer. He died in 1980. PO 25.2.45 FO 25.8.45

WILHELM SASAK 781267

Sgt

Pilot

PO 14.3.30 FO 14.9.31 FL 1.1.36 SL 1.10.38 WC 1.3.41 GC 1.1.44 GC 1.7.47

Polish

32 Squadron

CECIL HENRY SAUNDERS

Sasak was born on October 11 1916. He arrived in England in early 1940 and enlisted in the RAFVR in February at RAF Eastchurch. From June 1 he was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting.

42893

British

British

92 Squadron

Saunders joined 92 Squadron at Croydon on April 20 1940, direct from 14 FTS. He probably destroyed a He 111 and shared in the destruction of another on July 4 and on the 11th he probably destroyed a Ju 88. After a combat with enemy aircraft over Biggin Hill on September 9, Saunders made a crash-landing at Midley, near Rye, in Spitfire L 1077. He was admitted to the RAMC Hospital at Brookland, with shrapnel wounds in the leg. On October 11 Saunders was said to be almost recovered and awaiting a Medical Board. He was found to be fit and rejoined 92. On October 26 Saunders damaged a Bf 109, on the 29th shared in destroying a Bf 110 and on November 1 he shot down a Ju 87 and damaged a Bf 110. In this action his Spitfire, X 4555, was damaged and he made a crash-landing three miles E of Eastchurch, unhurt. On December 1 he destroyed a Bf 109 and on February 5 1941 shared in the destruction of a Ju 87. In May 1941 Saunders was posted to 74 Squadron at Gravesend, as a Flight Commander, and on June 27 he got a probable Bf 109. The squadron went to the Middle East in April 1942 but had no aircraft after its arrival in Palestine. Saunders joined 145 Squadron in the Western Desert in late July 1942, as a Flight Commander. On August 3 he probably destroyed a Bf 109, on September 11 destroyed a Mc 202, on October 22 damaged a Bf 109 and on the 25th claimed another Bf 109 destroyed. He was posted away from 145 in November 1942. Awarded the DFC (4.12.42), Saunders was posted to 71 OTU, Port Sudan, which later moved up to Abu Sueir, Egypt. For the invasion of Sicily on July 10 1943, Saunders was on a Fighter Direction ship. He took command of 154 Squadron at Lentini East in August. The squadron moved on to Italy and in February 1944 went to Corsica, to cover the American invasion of Southern France. Saunders commanded the squadron until October 1944. He also commanded 145 Squadron in July/August 1945. He retired from the RAF on May 5 1958 as a Wing Commander. He died on September 1 1992.

WILLIAM ARTHUR JOHN SATCHELL SL Pilot

Pilot

Born on July 7 1911 in Forest Hill, London, Saunders joined the RAF on a short service commission. He began his ab initio course at the Civil Training School at Derby on August 24 1939 and then moved on to 14 FTS, Kinloss for No 3 Course, which ran from November 4 1939 to April 20 1940.

On August 23 1940 Sasak went to No 1 School of Army Cooperation, Old Sarum on the 5th Polish Pilots’ Course, for testing and grading. On September 1, Sasak, then an LAC, arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 32 Squadron at Acklington on the 21st, as a Sergeant. After the Battle of Britain he was posted to 145 Squadron at Tangmere, joining it on November 5. On November 30 1940 Sasak was returning from a squadron patrol when his engine caught fire. He broke the formation but did not bale out, possibly overcome by fumes. The Hurricane, P 3704, crashed at Donnington, S of Chichester. Sasak is buried in the Roman Catholic Cemetery, Chichester.

29048

PO

302 Squadron Satchell was born on February 2 1908 in Grimsby, Lincolnshire. He was educated at Denstone College and joined the Territorial Army in 1926, in the Leicestershire Yeomanry, as a trooper. He left to join the RAF on a short service commission in March 1930.

He was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on the 29th and with training completed, he joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on March 8 1931. With training completed, he went to the School of Naval Co-operation at Lee-on-Solent on December 16 1932. He was posted to 204 (GR) Squadron at Mount Batten, Plymouth on June 5 1937 and went on to the SHQ staff there on October 10 1938. Satchell went to HQ 13 Group on August 26 1939. He took command of 234 Squadron on its being reformed at Leconfield on October 30 1939. He was injured in a motor car accident three days later and posted away, after being admitted to Hull Royal Infirmary. On March 18 1940 he was posted from RAF Uxbridge to RAF Digby, for administrative duties. In April 1940 Satchell was commanding 60/63 Wing at Merville in France. During the retreat in May, he left Merville as the Germans were coming in. He walked forty miles to Boulogne, hiding during the day. After returning to England on May 21, he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down for a refresher course. On June 4 Satchell was posted to 603 Squadron at Turnhouse, to command. He received a frigid reception on arrival and was told that an AAF squadron could only be commanded by an Auxiliary officer. Squadron Leader G L Denholm took command on the 5th and Satchell was attached to 141 Squadron at Grangemouth, as a supernumerary. He crashed at night in a Defiant on June 23, when the undercarriage collapsed. He was unhurt. Satchell was given command of 302 Squadron at Leconfield at its formation on July 13 1940. It became operational on August 19 and Satchell shot down a Ju 88 on the 20th, the squadron’s first victory, and destroyed another Ju 88 next day. On September 13 Satchell took a 302 detachment to Duxford, to operate with the Bader Big Wing. On the 14th he probably destroyed a Bf 109, on the 15th he destroyed a Bf 109, a Do 17 and probably destroyed another Do 17, on the 18th he destroyed a Do 17. The detachment returned to Leconfield on September 25. He made a forced-landing at Slough on October 15, after his Hurricane, P 3812, was damaged in combat over the Thames Estuary. He shared in the probable destruction of a Ju 88 on the 18th and probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 26th. In January 1941 Satchell was posted away. Later in the year he was on HMS Ark Royal, directing Hurricanes flying off to Malta. He arrived in Ta Kali on December 20 1941, to be Station Commander there. Satchell claimed a Ju 88 destroyed on the 30th, destroyed a Bf 109 on February 15 1942 and shot another down and damaged a Ju 88 on March 15.

APO 23.10.39 PO 20.4.40 FO 20.4.41 FL 20.4.42 SL 1.7.44 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.1.52

GERALD ALFRED WELLESLEY SAUNDERS 37482

FL

Pilot

British

65 Squadron Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 28 1935. Saunders was posted to 7 FTS, Peterborough on January 4 1936 and with training completed, he joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on July 13 1936.

He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on March 2 1939, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. Still with the squadron in 1940, Saunders shared in the destruction of a Hs 126 on May 24, probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged a Ju 88 on the 26th and probably destroyed a Do 17 on the 27th. Saunders destroyed Bf 109s on July 7 and 9 and shared a Do 17 and damaged a Bf 110 on August 26. He took command of the squadron on October 30 1940, as an Acting Squadron Leader. He was awarded the DFC (4.4.41) and posted away in September 1941. Saunders was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Wing Commander. He is believed to have died in September 1999. APO 23.12.35 PO 28.10.36 FO 12.7.38 FL 28.7.40 SL 1.9.41 WC 1.7.45

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THOMAS WOOD SAVAGE

TADEUSZ SAWICZ

105167

P 0596

Sgt

Pilot

British

64 Squadron

FO

Pilot

Polish

Savage, of Porthill, Stoke-on-Trent, joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748012). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 29 1940.

Born in Warsaw on February 13 1914, Sawicz joined the PAF in 1934 and was commissioned at the PAF College at Deblin in August 1936. During the fighting in Poland in September 1939, he was serving with 114 Eskadra. On the 3rd he probably destroyed a Bf 109, on the 4th shared a Ju 87 and on the 6th destroyed a He 111. On September 17 Sawicz led the remaining fighters of the Pursuit Brigade into Romania. Avoiding internment, he travelled to France, via Yugoslavia and Italy, arriving on October 7. Sawicz joined l’Armée de l’Air and, after conversion training at Lyon-Bron, he joined Groupe de Chasse III/10. He flew with it until the fall of France, when he flew to Algiers with other Polish pilots. They went via Casablanca, took a boat to Gibraltar and arrived in England on July 17 1940. He was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool until August 26, when he went to the Polish Depot. From there Sawicz moved to No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum for the 7th Polish Pilots’ Course, for testing and grading. On October 2 1940 he went to 5 OTU, Aston Down and after converting to Hurricanes, Sawicz joined 303 Squadron at Leconfield on October 20. He made his first flight on that day, a sector recco. Sawicz was posted to the newly-formed 316 Squadron at Pembrey on February 22 1941 and he shot a He 111 down into the sea on April 9, the squadron’s first confirmed victory. He was awarded the KW and Bar (15.7.41) and appointed a Flight Commander on November 14. Tour-expired, Sawicz was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on June 6 1942 as an instructor. He was awarded a second Bar to the KW (20.8.42). He returned to operations on September 25 1942, taking command of 315 Squadron at Northolt. He damaged a FW 190 on April 4 1943. Sawciz was appointed Squadron Leader Flying at Northolt on April 16 1943 and was awarded the VM (5th Class) (12.5.43). He was posted to HQ 12 Group on July 3 as Polish Liaison Officer and in October he went to 61 OTU, as an instructor. Sawicz was awarded the DFC (20.10.43). On March 3 1944 he was attached to the US 9th Air Force and later to 61 Squadron, (USAAF). He was later awarded the DFC (US) and the Air Medal (US). Sawicz led No 1 Polish Wing from October 11 1944 to August 8 1945. He was awarded a third Bar to the KW (15.6.45). After a series of short postings, Sawicz was released from the PAF in January 1947, as a Wing Commander. In 1957 he emigrated to Canada and worked in the airline business. He was made an honorary Brigadier General by the Polish Government in 2006. Sawicz died on October 19 2011. He was the last Polish airman to have served in the Battle of Britain. His ashes were flown from Canada to Poland, with members of the Queen’s Colour Squadron of the RAF in the escorting party. He was given a State funeral service in Warsaw in which the QCS also participated.

After converting to Spitfires, he joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield on October 14 1940. Commissioned in August 1941, he was with 92 Squadron. He flew to the Middle East, via Malta, in February 1942. On arrival there was a shortage of aircraft and the squadron was delegated to maintenance duties. In August Spitfires arrived and fighter sweeps and bomber-escort operations began. After the victory at Alamein, the squadron moved west behind the 8th Army. On June 14 1943 92 flew to Luqa in Malta for the Sicily landings. Savage was killed on July 10 1943, as a Flight Lieutenant, possibly shot down by anti-aircraft fire from an Allied warship. At the time of his death he had four victories, one shared and two damaged. He was 23. Savage is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 6, Column 1. PO 2.8.41 FO 2.8.42

JOSEPH ERNEST SAVILL 740971

Sgt

Pilot

British

151, 242, 73 and 501 Squadrons

Savill joined the RAFVR in December 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and was with 151 Squadron at North Weald by November 8 1939. Savill destroyed a Do 17 on August 13 1940. He was posted to 242 Squadron at Coltishall on September 21, moved to 73 Squadron at Castle Camps on October 10 and finally to 501 Squadron at Kenley on the 17th. Savill rejoined 73 Squadron on October 26 and was posted to 213 Squadron at Tangmere on November 3 1940. Savill was promoted to Warrant Officer on October 1 1941. No further service details traced. He died on June 6 1991.

CYRIL JOSEPH SAWARD 137927

Sgt

Pilot

British

303 Squadron

615 and 501 Squadrons

Joined the RAFVR in Coventry in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748752). Saward began his flying training at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty. Called up at the outbreak of war, he went to 3 ITW, Hastings in September, moved to 6 EFTS, Sywell in October and then to 8 FTS, Montrose for No 18 Course, which ran from April 9 to July 26 1940.

FO 1.3.41 FL 1.2.42 SL 1.9.44 Saward joined 615 Squadron at Kenley on July 30 and was attached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on August 3, to convert to Hurricanes. On the 21st he crashed on the aerodrome in a Hurricane, due to a burst glycol tank, unhurt. He rejoined 615 Squadron on August 24. He moved to 501 Squadron at Gravesend on September 9. He was shot down by Bf 109s in combat over Tonbridge on the 18th and baled out, unhurt. His Hurricane, V 6600, crashed near Clapper Lane, Staplehurst. Saward made his last sortie with 501 on September 30, an engagement with Bf 109s. He returned to Kenley early, in Hurricane R 4101. In November 1940 Saward was posted to 4 Ferry Pilot Pool, Kemble. He went to 2 CFS, Cranwell in May 1941, for an instructor’s course, after which he became an instructor on Oxfords at 6 FTS, Little Rissington. Saward was posted to Canada in January 1942. He instructed at 39 SFTS, Swift Current until September 1942, was commissioned in October and then instructed at 37 SFTS, Calgary until March 1944, when he returned to the UK. Saward joined 577 Squadron at Wrexham in April 1944, flying Hurricanes on army cooperation duties. He did a blind-flying course at CFS, Montrose from November 1944 and then instructed at 20(P)AFU, Wheaton Aston from February to September 1945. Saward’s final posting was to RAF Perton, as OC Flying. He was released from the RAF in March 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant. He returned to the motor car industry and worked for Daimler, Humber, British Leyland, Standard and Triumph as a designer. He became Principal Engineer with Jaguar Cars and retired in 1983. Saward died in 1988.

HENRY CECIL SAWYER 33144

SL

Pilot

British

65 Squadron

Sawyer was educated at Dover College and entered RAF College, Cranwell in January 1933, as a Flight Cadet. He was President of the College Debating Society. After graduation, with a Permanent Commission, he joined 142 Squadron at Andover. He joined the staff of the Electrical and Wireless School at Cranwell on May 30 1936 and moved to the staff of RAF College there on July 16 1938. While on the staff he produced and acted in plays for the Cranwell Amateur Dramatic Society. He joined 615 Squadron at Kenley on August 12 1939, as Adjutant and Flying Instructor. Sawyer was posted away to 3 FTS, South Cerney on September 2 1939. He went to 9 B&GS on January 21 1940, as an Acting Squadron Leader and OC Flying. He was posted from there to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, arriving on May 27 1940 for a refresher course. After converting to Spitfires, he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on June 15, when the unit was formed, as OC ‘B’ Flight. Sawyer was posted to 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on July 2 1940, as a supernumerary, and took command on the 8th. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 8th and he damaged three Bf 109s on the 24th. He was killed on August 2, when he crashed on take-off from Hornchurch on a night patrol, in Spitfire R 6799, which burned out. Sawyer was 25. He was cremated at the City of London Crematorium, East Ham.

PO 19.10.42 FO 19.4.43 FL 19.10.44

PO 15.12.34 FO 15.6.36 FL 15.6.38 SL 1.6.40

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JAMES EDWARD SAYERS 560204

Sgt

Pilot

British

crashed on the aerodrome on the 12th, in Blenheim K 7160, unhurt. After converting to Blenheims, Schumer joined 600 Squadron at Redhill on the 26th. He made his first flight with 600 on the 27th, from Old Sarum to Redhill. He was killed on July 12 1941, aged 22 and still serving with 600. Schumer was cremated at Golders Green Crematorium, Hendon.

41 Squadron

Born on April 10 1910, Sayers was educated at Woolwich Polytechnic. He joined the RAF straight from school in January 1926, as an Aircraft Apprentice. He passed out in January 1929 as a Fitter, Airframe/Engines and was posted to 2 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Manston.

PO 7.9.40

Sayers did an air gunnery course in April 1930 and became an AG/FAE. He later volunteered for pilot training, was selected and on April 4 1934 he was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham. On passing out as a Sergeant-Pilot on February 27 1935, he joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch but moved to 41 Squadron at Northolt in September. The squadron was posted to Aden in October 1935 and returned to Catterick in August 1936. Sayers was still with 41 Squadron in early 1940. He appears to have requested a return to his basic trade of Fitter, Airframe/Engines. He remustered to Pilot/FAE on March 11 1940 and appears to have resumed flying duties on March 28. He flew his last sortie with 41 Squadron on July 15 1940, a convoy patrol. He then probably carried out ground duties until posted away on October 3, when he reverted to his basic trade of Fitter/Airframe/Engines. Promoted to Warrant Officer on November 1 1941, he became a Fitter 2E on September 3 1942. Sayers was discharged from the RAF on January 5 1953 as a Warrant Officer.

LIONEL HAROLD SCHWIND 37870

PO

Pilot

British

605 Squadron

He moved on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 12 Course, which ran from July 10 to December 9 1939. After completing his training, he arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on December 28 1939. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 605 Squadron at Tangmere on January 25 1940. On March 28 Schadtler Law was flying in Yellow Section when a He 111 was sighted, entering cloud at 6,000 feet. The section-leader fired two short bursts, setting the enemy aircraft on fire. The bomber was attacked and finished off by 43 Squadron at 1,000 feet and the victory was shared. It was 605’s first encounter with the Luftwaffe. On August 15 Schadtler Law made a forced-landing on Hartlepool golf course near the district known as Hart Station, after a combat near Newcastle, in Hurricane P 2717. He was badly injured and admitted to West Hartlepool Hospital. He was posted as non-effective sick to RAF Drem, as a supernumerary. Schadtler Law retired from the RAF on July 1 1968 as a Wing Commander. He later changed his name to Law. He died in 1986. APO 24.6.39 PO 27.12.39 FO 27.12.40 FL 27.12.41 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.1.52 WC 1.7.59

EDWARD CRANSTON SCHOLLAR PO

Observer

British

British

257, 43 and 213 Squadrons

He went to Repton School in 1927 and left in 1931 to go to Loughborough College to study engineering. Schwind served a brief apprenticeship with Frazer Nash before joining the RAF on a short service commission. He began his ab initio course on March 23 1936, as a pupil pilot. He was posted to 11 FTS, Wittering on June 2 and with training completed, he joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch in January 1937. In December 1937 he was posted to Iraq and he joined the staff of the Aircraft Depot, Dhibban on April 3 1938. Whilst in Iraq, Schwind served with 55 Squadron, based at Habbaniya with Vickers Vincents. Schwind returned to the UK in early September 1938 and was involved in a motor accident on the 12th near Dumfries and was badly injured. He was posted to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on the 12th, as a supernumerary, non-effective sick. Fully recovered, he was posted on January 9 1939 to ‘E’ Flight of No 1 AACU at West Freugh, near Stranraer, flying Hawker Henleys. He married Georgina Trueman in Edinburgh in December 1939. On August 23 1940 Schwind arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 257 Squadron at Debden on September 1. He moved to 43 Squadron at Usworth on the 10th and then to 213 Squadron at Tangmere on the 20th. He was shot down and killed in combat with enemy fighters over Gatwick on September 27 1940. His Hurricane, N 2401, crashed on to Wildernesse Golf Course, Seal, near Sevenoaks. The story then has a more tragic twist. On the next day, the 28th, Schwind and his wife, Georgina, were to have a second wedding, at Crowborough, presumably for the benefit of Schwind’s widower father, who had never been told of the Edinburgh ceremony. When the groom failed to appear, enquiries were made to the squadron and the news of his death the previous day was relayed to Schwind’s wife and father. Georgina was pregnant and a daughter, Penelope, was born in June 1941. Schwind was 27 years old. His funeral was held at All Saints’ Church, Crowborough on October 4 1940, with full military honours. He is buried in Crowborough Burial Ground, Sussex. In 1980 Bill Terry arranged for the erection of a memorial plaque at the site of the crash. Schwind’s brother, Sergeant G L Schwind, died on May 26 1940, aged 21. He was serving as an observer with 59 Squadron. The Blenheim in which he was flying was shot down during a reconnaisence sortie with no survivors. He is buried in Warneton Communal Cemetery, Belgium.

Kennith Schadtler was born on December 12 1916 in Johannesburg, At some point he was commissioned in the South African Air Force. Schadtler joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio training on May 1 1939, as a pupil pilot at 15 E&RFTS at Redhill. He changed his name by deed poll to Schadtler Law after war broke out.

78256

Pilot

Schwind was born on June 15 1913. He was brought up in the Crowborough area of East Sussex. He attended Newlands Preparatory School at Seaford.

KENNITH SCHADTLER LAW 42267

FO

248 Squadron APO 18.5.36 PO 23.3.37 FO 9.7.39

Schollar joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (745992). Called up on September 1, he completed his training on No 4 Air Observer Course at 5 B&GS, Jurby, which ran from January 1 to March 23 1940.

KIRKPATRICK MacLURE SCLANDERS 82164

He was commissioned and joined 248 Squadron at North Coates from 5 B&GS on March 30 1940. He was posted next day to No 1(C) OTU, Silloth for further training. Schollar rejoined 248 on June 26 and served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Squadron Leader.

FRANCIS HERBERT SCHUMER PO

Pilot

British

Pilot

Canadian

242 Squadron

Born in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan in 1916, Sclanders was brought up in St John, New Brunswick. He learned to fly at 15 but could not get a license until he was 17. He had earned the money for lessons by working in school holidays for Pan American Airways, as well as writing for the American magazine, Aero Digest. He took part in air shows, acting as a Boy Scout who accidentally started an aircraft engine and then performed aerobatics. He worked for a newspaper on leaving school. Sclanders went to England in 1935 and joined the RAF on a short service commission (37301) in September.

PO 24.3.40 FO 24.3.41 FL 24.3.42

84970

PO

He was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham on September 28 and with training completed, he joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge on August 5 1936. Sclanders resigned his commission in September 1937 because of ill-health and returned to Canada. He returned to journalism, underwent surgery and regained his fitness but could not get into the RCAF. Sclanders applied to fly in the Russo-Finnish war but it finished and he went to France to try for the French Air Force. He was there when the collapse came and he left Southern France by boat, with Polish refugees. Sclanders reached England, rejoined the RAF and was commissioned. He went to CFS Upavon on July 25 1940, for an assessment of his flying. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge from RAF Upavon on August 2 and converted to Hurricanes. He was posted to 242 Squadron at Coltishall on August 26. Sclanders was shot down

600 Squadron

Schumer was educated at Giggleswick School and Worcester College, Oxford, where he read Literature and Humanities. He was a member of the University Air Squadron and joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754291). Called up on September 1, Schumer went to 2 FTS, Brize Norton for No 45 Course, which began on February 17 1940. However, he was posted to 4 EFTS, Brough on April 11, for further elementary training. He afterwards went to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 21 Course, which ran from June 10 to September 7 1940. Schumer was commissioned and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 7. He

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Bf 110 on September 11 and destroyed a Bf 109 on the 15th. He was awarded the DFC (24.9.40), being then credited with five enemy aircraft destroyed. 73 Squadron, which moved to Castle Camps on September 5, left Debden on November 9 1940 for overseas. It embarked on HMS Furious at Birkenhead on the 13th, with its aircraft, and flew its Hurricanes off to Takoradi on the 29th. The squadron then flew in easy stages to Heliopolis, via Lagos, Accra, Kano, Maiduguri, Khartoum, Wadi Halfa and Abu Sueir. During December, the pilots were attached to 274 Squadron in the Western Desert. 73 began operating on its own account in early January 1941. Scott was posted away in June 1941, to instruct at 71 OTU, Ismailia, which later moved to Gordon’s Tree, Sudan. He returned to operations in the Western Desert on March 16 1942, taking command of 94 Squadron at LG 115. He was seconded to the Turkish Air Force at Izmir on November 29, as a liaison officer and instructor. In June 1943 Scott returned to the UK. On October 14 he was posted to 2 FIS, Montrose, for an instructor’s course. He was at 7 (P) AFU, Peterborough from January to April 1944, at 9(P) AFU, Findo Gask from April to October and at 5(P) AFU, Ternhill from October 1944 to June 1945. Scott was released from the RAF in late 1945 as a Squadron Leader. He died in 2002.

and killed in combat with Do 17s and Bf 110s over Thames Haven on September 9. His Hurricane, P 3087, crashed at Marden Park Farm, Caterham. He was 24 and is buried in St Luke’s churchyard, Whyteleafe, Surrey. APO 16.9.35 PO 16.9.36 PO 25.7.40

ALEC MAXTONE WRIGHT SCOTT 76023

PO

Pilot

British

3, 607 and 605 Squadrons

Scott, of Glasgow, was at Brasenose College, Oxford and learned to fly with the University Air Squadron. Called to full-time service in November 1939, he was commissioned in the RAFVR and completed his training at RAF College FTS, Cranwell on No 8 Course, which ran from March 6 to June 22 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 22 and after converting to Hurricanes, Scott was posted to 3 Squadron at Wick on July 20. He moved to 607 Squadron at Tangmere on September 27 and then to 605 Squadron at Croydon on October 15 1940. He was killed on January 2 1941, with 605. Scott was 29 and is buried in St Mary’s churchyard, Black Bourton, Oxfordshire..

APO 19.2.38 PO 15.4.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.1.44

DOUGLAS REGINALD SCOTT

APO 30.11.39 PO 22.6.40

90246

SL

Pilot

British

ALFRED ENOCH SCOTT 117308

Sgt

Pilot

British

605 Squadron Born in 1908, Scott was at Wellington College from 1921 to 1925 and he then went to Jesus College, Cambridge. In the 1930s he was manager of the Experimental Department of Armstrong Siddeley and used to race cars at Brooklands.

73 Squadron, 422 Flight

Scott, of Nottingham, joined 504 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand (815013). He later remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot and was placed under training on May 10 1939.

In August 1935 Scott was commissioned in 605 Squadron, AAF at Castle Bromwich. It was then a light bomber squadron but on January 1 1939 it became a fighter unit. Called to fulltime service on August 24 1939, Scott was a Flight Commander. He was seriously ill in a nursing home in Harrogate in March 1940 but had recovered by July 1, when he rejoined 605 and came off the non-effective sick list. He made his first flight on July 2 and was operational again on the 10th but he did not resume his Flight Commander duties. On August 29 1940 Scott was posted away to Church Fenton, as an Acting Squadron Leader and he took command of the newly-formed 306 Squadron on September 6 and he led it until December. It is not known where he went then but for his services at this time, Scott was awarded the AFC (15.1.43), with effect from October 9 1941. In early October 1941 Scott was appointed Wing Leader at Kirton in-Lindsey. He was killed, leading 616 Squadron on a Wing patrol of the Dunkirk area on November 8 1941. He was shot down by FW 190s, the first time they had been seen by 616 pilots. Scott is buried in Dunkirk Town Cemetery.

Called up on August 24 1939, Scott completed his training at 2 FTS, Brize Norton, on No 42 Course, which ran from October 9 1939 to March 23 1940. He rejoined 504 Squadron from 2 FTS and on April 28 he was detached to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 73 Squadron in France on May 11. He joined the squadron on the 13th and was with it when it was withdrawn to Church Fenton on June 18 1940. Scott joined 422 Flight at Shoreham on October 15 and on the 27th he damaged a He 111. On December 18 1940, 422 Flight was the nucleus of 96 Squadron, when it was reformed at Cranage. During the night of May 6/7 1941 Scott probably destroyed a Ju 88 and next night, on May 7/8, he destroyed a He 111. Commissioned in February 1942, Scott was posted to 60 OTU, East Fortune, as an instructor. He joined 245 Squadron at Middle Wallop in mid-July, as a supernumerary. Scott was killed on August 19 1942, when his Hurricane, AL 669, was shot down by flak, whilst he was strafing defensive positions at Dieppe, ahead of the landings there that day. He was 25 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 71.

PO (AAF) 1.8.35 FO (AAF) 25.4.37 FL (AAF) 25.4.39 FL 24.8.39 SL 1.9.40

PO 26.2.42

ERNEST SCOTT 525152

Sgt

Pilot British

222 Squadron

DONALD STUART SCOTT 40569

FO

Pilot

British

73 Squadron

Scott, was born in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire on December 30 1917. He was educated at St Peter’s School, Mansfield and St John’s College, York.

Scott was born at Hook, Hampshire on October 4 1918. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on November 29 1937 at 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury.

After leaving, he was a fitter in an engineering works. He joined the RAF in 1935. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. He completed his flying training at 15 FTS, Lossiemouth and was posted to 222 Squadron at its formation at Duxford on October 5 1939, with Blenheims. On February 24 1940 Scott arrived at 12 Group Pool, Aston Down. After converting to Spitfires, he rejoined 222 Squadron at Duxford on March 23. He was still with it at the start of the Battle of Britain. On September 3 1940 Scott claimed a Do 17 and a Bf 109 destroyed, on the 5th he probably destroyed a Bf 110 and a Bf 109, on the 7th he destroyed a Bf 110, on the 9th probably destroyed another and on the 11th shot down a He 111. After this engagement, Scott returned to Hornchurch with his hood shattered, after an attack by a Bf 109. On September 27 Scott claimed a Bf109 destroyed but he himself failed to return from an operational sortie in the afternoon and was reported ‘Missing’. His Spitfire, P 9364, could have been that which crashed at Greenway Court Road, Hollingbourne, possibly shot down by Major Mšlders of JG 51. Scott’s name was put on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 19, as having no known grave. In 1975 a group of aviation archaeologists applied for permission from the Ministry of

In February 1938 Scott was posted to 7 FTS, Peterborough and moved to 6 FTS, Netheravon on May 21. He was noneffective sick at RAF Uxbridge from August 1938 to January 1939. Scott finished his training at 6 FTS, Little Rissington and was posted to 2 Air Observer School, Acklington on April 15 1939, as a staff pilot. He went to 10 B&GS, Warmwell on September 5, again as a staff pilot. On February 1 1940 Scott was posted to 11 Group Pool, St Athan. He was still there on March 9 1940, when it was redesignated 6 OTU and moved to Sutton Bridge. He converted to Hurricanes and was posted to 73 Squadron in France on March 16 1940, joining it on the 24th. On April 21 Scott destroyed a Bf 110, on May 13 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17, on the 14th shot down a Ju 87 and damaged another, on the 15th destroyed a Bf 110, on the 17th got a probable Do 17 and on June 1 destroyed a Bf 109. After many moves and relocations, the squadron withdrew to Church Fenton on June 18. Scott was detached from 73 to the AFDU at Northolt from late July to August 11 for an Air Fighting Course. He destroyed a Ju 88 and probably another on August 15, damaged a

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WILLIAM JACK SCOTT

Defence to excavate the aircraft but it was refused on the grounds that the dead pilot’s parents wished his body to remain with the aircraft. Further requests over the years were refused. In 1990 Scott’s sister and other relatives were traced. A request by them to the Ministry of Defence for a formal burial for Scott was turned down. His sister wrote to Prince Charles, asking him to intervene. A few days later the excavation was authorised and a Ministry team recovered the aircraft and Scott’s remains, still in the cockpit, were positively identified. He was buried with full military honours in Margate Cemetery, Kent on February 1 1991.

40283

Sgt

Pilot

British

64 and 19 Squadrons

In May 1935 Scott began work as a Shift Engineer with the British Aluminium Company at Fort William. He went to the Company’s plant at Kinlochleven in 1937, as Assistant Manager of the Carbon Plant. In December 1937 Scott joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740968) and was called up at the outbreak of war. With his training completed, he probably joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield from 7 OTU about September 18 1940. Scott made his first operational sortie on the 21st and saw his first enemy aircraft on the 23rd. He moved to 19 Squadron at Fowlmere on September 25 1940. Commissioned in March 1941, Scott was awarded the AFC (8.6.44) for his work as an instructor in the Spitfire Wing at CGS, Sutton Bridge. He commanded 124 Squadron at Westhampnett from September 1944 to June 1945, operating in Mosquitos. Released in late 1945, as a Squadron Leader, Scott rejoined British Aluminium, at Fort William, as Technical Assistant in the Carbon Plant. In 1947 he joined the RAuxAF and was with it until 1956, when he went to Canada, to work for the Canadian British Aluminium Company. He was made an MBE (1.6.53), in recognition of his volunteer service as a pilot in the defence of the United Kingdom. At the time of the award, Scott was a Flight Commander in 603 Squadron. He settled in Canada and died there in 1986

WILLIAM JOHN MOIR SCOTT 70611

British

266, 611 and 74 Squadrons

After converting to Spitfires, Scott joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on September 23. He moved to 611 Squadron at Ternhill on the 27th and to 74 Squadron at Biggin Hill on October 23. Scott was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 109s over Maidstone on October 27 1940. His Spitfire, P 7526, crashed and exploded at Dundas Farm, Elsted. He was 22 and he is interred in the Alperton Burial Ground, Wembley.

Pilot

British

41 Squadron

PO (RAFO) 16.3.37 PO (RAFVR) 1.1.38 FO 12.9.39

FRANCIS DAVID STEPHEN SCOTT-MALDEN 74690

FO

Pilot

British

611 and 603 Squadrons

Scott-Malden was born on December 26 1919 at Portslade, Sussex, the son of a school master at Windlesham House Preparatory School. He was educated at Winchester College and King’s College, Cambridge, where he read Classics and won the Sir William Browne Medal for Greek Verse in 1939.

RONALD HAMILTON SCOTT FL

British

He was given the opportunity of six month’s continuous training with the regular RAF before the outbreak of war and he was on 41 Squadron in August 1939. Called to full-time service on September 12 1939, Scott completed his training and on November 21 1939 he was attached to SHQ Catterick, for Ops duties. He later rejoined 41 Squadron, then based at Catterick. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on September 6, shooting it down into the Channel off Folkestone. Two days later Scott was shot down and killed during a squadron patrol off Dover, possibly the victim of a surprise attack by Bf 109s. His Spitfire, R 6756, crashed in flames. Scott was 25. He is buried in Dundee Western Cemetery, Angus.

Scott joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and he arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940.

90221

FO Pilot

Scott, of Dundee, was born on June 14 1915. He was educated at Clifton College and Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, where he read Mechanical Sciences. He was a member of the University Air Squadron and was commissioned in Class ‘AA’ of the RAFO on March 16 1937. He relinquished this on being granted a commission in the RAFVR on January 1 1938.

JOHN ALAN SCOTT Pilot

264 Squadron

PO 24.11.41 FO 1.10.42

PO 5.3.41 FO 5.3.42 FL 5.3.43 FO (RAuxAF) 22.3.48 FL (AAF) 1.4.50

Sgt

New Zealander

Scott reported to the Ground Training School at Weraroa on January 18 1940 and on February 9 he moved to the Air Observers’ School, Ohakea, for a Lewis gunnery course and air experience. On March 23 he left for the UK in the SS Akaroa arriving on May 9. On June 3 Scott was posted to 264 Squadron at Duxford for further training. He was sent for a course to 9 B&GS in North Wales and after gaining his air gunner’s brevet, he rejoined 264 Squadron and he was then promoted to Sergeant on September 5. Scott was posted away to the No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum on October 19 1940, for a course, after which he joined 268 Squadron, flying in Lysanders from Bury St Edmunds. In November Scott’s aircraft crashed from 300 feet and he sustained a fracture at the base of the skull. After five weeks in hospital, he was posted to 256 Squadron at Pembrey on January 8 1941, with night-fighters. Flying with Flight Lieutenant E C Deanesly (qv) on April 10, Scott shot down a He 111 over Smethwick. On May 3 they destroyed a Do 17 and a Ju 88 and on the 7th they shot down a He 111 over Manchester. Scott was awarded the DFM (29.5.41) and Deanesly the DFC, which they received from the King in October at Buckingham Palace. Commissioned in November 1941, Scott was posted away on May 11 1942 to 17 AGS, Stormy Down, as an instructor. In March 1943 he went to HQ 19 Group for staff duties. Scott moved to HQ RNZAF, London in May 1943 and was repatriated to New Zealand in November. He became a gunnery instructor at Ohakea and moved to Rongotai in mid1944. He was transferred to the Reserve on July 31 1944. Scott died in March 1999.

Scott was born on May 2 1911 at Scone, Perthshire. He gained a First Class Honours Degree in chemical engineering at the University of Glasgow.

745385

Air Gunner

Born in Auckland on May 19 1918, Scott was a seaman with the Union Steamship Co when he volunteered for aircrew at the outbreak of war.

GEORGE WARDROP SCOTT 62257

Sgt

604 Squadron Scott joined 604 Squadron, AAF at Hendon in early 1937. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939 and served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain.

He joined the University Air Squadron in November 1938 and transferred to the RAFVR on June 14 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754343). Scott-Malden was called to full-time service in October 1939. He was commissioned on October 3. On January 1 1940 he was posted to RAF College FTS, Cranwell and after completing his flying training he went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum for a course in late May 1940. On June 10 Scott-Malden arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 611 Squadron at Digby on June 23. On October 4 1940 he went to 603 Squadron at Hornchurch. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 12th, damaged two CR 42s on November 23 and shared a Do 17 on the 29th.

He was on No 9 Course at No 1 Blind Approach School, Watchfield from December 20 1940 to January 4 1941. Scott was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Wing Commander. He rejoined the RAuxAF in 1948. PO (AAF) 10.4.37 FO (AAF) 16.10.38 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41 WC 1.1.45 WC (RAuxAF) 16.12.48

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Masters and then went solo on the Hurricane. After seven hours he was declared operational, without ever having fired the guns. On July 13 Seabourne shared in destroying a Bf 110 and damaged two more in his first encounter with the Luftwaffe. On August 8 he got a confirmed Bf 109 and on the 13th two more. In this engagement, Seabourne was shot down himself. His engine seized up after a cannon shell hit the radiator. He was then attacked by three Bf 109s and set on fire. He prepared to bale out but his hood jammed, then the aircraft turned on its back and Seabourne fell out, taking the hood with him. After a delayed drop of 16,000 feet, he opened his parachute, blew up his Mae West and hit the sea about seven miles S of the Isle of Wight. He was picked up by a destroyer, HMS Bulldog, and taken to the Royal Naval Hospital at Haslar. After a week, Seabourne was moved to Park Prewitt Hospital at Basingstoke, where he remained for seven months undergoing plastic surgery by Harold Gillies. In May 1941 Seabourne was posted to 2 Delivery Flight at Colerne. He was commissioned in August and in October he joined 276 (ASR) Squadron, as a Flight Commander. He was awarded the DFC (23.6.42). In December 1942 Seabourne was given command of 275 (ASR) Squadron at RAF Valley and led it until February 1945, when it was disbanded. From then to June 1945 he was at HQ 10 Group as Ops 1. Seabourne retired from the RAF on December 2 1960 as a Squadron Leader.

Scott-Malden became a Flight Commander in May 1941. On the 11th he took ‘A’ Flight to Drem, for a night-flying course. On the 28th he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another, on June 7, 14, 21, July 8 and 12 he damaged Bf 109s, on August 17, 19 and 26 he destroyed Bf 109s and on September 18 he probably destroyed another. Scott-Malden was awarded the DFC (19.8.41) and in late September he was promoted and given command of 54 Squadron at Hornchurch. On November 4 he damaged another Bf 109. In late November 1941 Scott-Malden was posted to HQ 14 Group, Inverness, on staff duties. He was appointed to lead the North Weald Norwegian Wing in March 1942. He got a probable FW 190 on April 28, damaged two Bf 109s on May 4, probably destroyed a FW 190 on the 19th and damaged a Bf 109 on the 27th.Scott-Malden was awarded a Bar to the DFC (5.6.42). On June 19 and 29 he shared in destroying FW 190s and on August 19, over Dieppe, he damaged a Do 217. He was awarded the DSO (11.9.42), the Norwegian War Cross (6.10.42), posted away for a rest and then sent on a speaking tour of American universities. From July to October 1943 Scott-Malden was Liaison Officer with 8th Bomber Command USAF. He commanded RAF Hornchurch from October 28 1943 to February 6 1944, when he was posted to a mobile GCU in 2nd TAF, preparing for the invasion of Europe. After D Day the unit moved to Normandy. In August 1944 Scott-Malden was promoted to Group Captain and took command of 126 Wing. He was posted to Air Ministry in April 1945, to work on redeployment of Air Forces from Europe to the Far East. He was made a Commander, Order of Orange-Nassau in 1945. Scott-Malden went on to a distinguished post-war career in the RAF. He retired on September 25 1966, as an Air Vice-Marshal. He died in 2000. His portrait was done by Eric Kennington in 1941.

PO 12.8.41 FO 12.8.42 FL 12.8.43 SL 1.8.47

LIONEL ARGENT SEARS 42895

GEORGE EDWARD THOMAS SCRASE FO

Pilot

British

In late 1938 Scrase joined 600 Squadron, AAF and was commissioned in February 1939. Called to full-time service on September 1, he arrived at 11 Group Pool on the 5th, for further training. Scrase converted to Blenheims and joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on October 6. He returned to 11 Group Pool on October 27 and rejoined 600 Squadron at Manston on the 29th. He was detached to RAF Farnborough on April 17 1940, for a two-day oxygen course. He was again detached on May 4 1940, this time to the School of Air Navigation, for a short navigation course. Scrase served with 600 Squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. On October 31 1940 he was attached to RAF Turnhouse, for Ops duties. The attachment became a posting on December 9 1940. He was posted from RAF Turnhouse to RAF Catterick on December 16 1940, for Squadron Leader Night Controller Operations duties. Scrase rejoined 600 Squadron some time in 1941. He was killed on September 28 1941, as an Acting Squadron Leader, Flight Commander with 600. Whilst testing the stalling speed of a Beaufighter MK V, he went into a spin and crashed near Acton Turville. His Radio Observer, Sergeant Ladymore, baled out safely. Scrase was cremated at Golders Green Crematorium, Hendon.

DENNIS SECRETAN 41746

British

FO

Pilot

British

54 and 72 Squadrons

Secretan joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on December 28 1938. With training completed, he went to No 1 School of Army Cooperation, Old Sarum, for a course. He joined 81 (Communications) Squadron at Amiens/Mountjoie on December 20 1939, equipped with Tiger Moths. The squadron was disbanded on June 15 1940 and Secretan joined 26 Squadron at West Malling next day, a Lysander army co-operation unit and he went to 225 Squadron on July 11, on Lysanders. In August Secretan volunteered for Fighter Command and on the 23rd he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden. After converting to Spitfires, he went to 54 Squadron at Catterick on September 3 and moved to 72 Squadron at Biggin Hill on the 27th. Secretan shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 and damaged another on October 27. He received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.41). In late August 1941 Secretan joined 403 (RCAF) Squadron but two weeks later he rejoined 54 Squadron, as a Flight Commander. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on September 17 1941. He was given command of 242 Squadron in September 1942 and led it to North Africa, arriving at Maison Blanche on November 8. On the 9th Secretan damaged a Ju 88 over a convoy off Algiers. On November 25 he damaged a Bf 109 and on January 1 1943 Secretan damaged a FW 190. On the 2nd he destroyed a Ju 87 but was then attacked by two Bf 109s, just as his ammunition was exhausted. His Spitfire was damaged and Secretan made a forced-landing seven miles N of Morris. The Bf 109s dived on the Spitfire but waited until Secretan got out before machine-gunning it. Secretan was awarded the DFC (26.2.43) and left 242 in March 1943. After returning to the UK, he served with Transport Command before he was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Wing Commander. Secretan died on February 10 1999.

ERIC WILLIAM SEABOURNE Pilot

145 Squadron

APO 23.10.39 PO 21.5.40

PO (RAFO) 29.6.31 FO (RAFO) 29.12.32 APO (AAF) 24.2.39 PO 7.10.39 FO 7.4.40 FL 7.4.41

Sgt

British

With training completed, he was commissioned on May 21, six days before the end of the course, and he joined 145 Squadron at Tangmere direct from 6 FTS. On July 1 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17 and on August 1 Sears shared in damaging a Ju 88. On August 8 he failed to return from combat with enemy aircraft over the Channel, S of the Isle of Wight, in Hurricane P 2955. He was possibly shot down by Unteroffizier Sippel of I/JG 57. Sears was 19 years old. In a letter to his father the Air Ministry declined to release his personal belongings until his mess and laundry bills had been settled. Sears is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 10.

600 Squadron

Scrase was educated at Winchester College and St John’s College, Cambridge, where he read Natural Sciences. He was a member of the University Air Squadron and was commissioned in Class ‘AA’ (section ii) of the RAFO on June 29 1931. He resigned this commission on March 16 1934.

105162

Pilot

Sears was born in Enfield, Middlesex on March 8 1921. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 14 1939. He moved on to 6 FTS, Little Rissington for No 16 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 27 1940.

PO 3.10.39 FO 3.10.40 FL 3.10.41 SL 12.6.42 SL 1.8.46 WC 1.7.53 GC 1.7.58 AC 1.7.62 AVM 6.4.64

90675

PO

238 Squadron

Seabourne was born in July 1911 and joined 601 Squadron, AAF in June 1935, as an Aircrafthand/ Air Gunner (801379). In 1938 he applied to join the RAFVR for pilot training and was accepted in August, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741938). In August 1938 he went to15 E&RFTS, Redhill, training on DH 60s, Magisters, Harts and Audaxes. Seabourne had been awarded his flying badge at Redhill before being called to fulltime service at the outbreak of war. He went to 9 FTS, Hullavington for No 15 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 13 1940, to do the course all over again. Seabourne was posted direct from 9 FTS to 151 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on May 16 1940. He had no experience in Hurricanes and did not fly with the squadron before being posted away to 238 Squadron at Tangmere on June 12. Seabourne had three hours on

APO 4.3.39 PO 23.9.39 FO 23.9.40 FL 23.9.41 SL 28.9.43

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KAREL SEDA 121182

Sgt

Pilot

JOHN WILFRED SEDDON Czechoslovakian

310 Squadron

74711

FO Pilot

British

Seda was born in Ujezd in Eastern Bohemia on November 4 1908, the son of a farmer.

601 Squadron Seddon, of Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey, was educated at Bryanston School and Jesus College, Cambridge, where he read Engineering. He was a member of the University Air Squadron. He was called to full-time service and commissioned in the RAFVR on October 3 1939.

In 1927 he volunteered for the Czechoslovak Air Force and began training at the newly-established military flying school as an aerial observer. After qualifying in 1929 he was posted to 13th Observation Squadron of the 3rd Regiment, flying A 11s and Ap 32s, He had been selected for pilot training and was assigned to the Military Aviation Academy, at Chleb, He graduated in 1931 and was posted to the Regiment’s 38th Fighter Squadron, based at Vajnory, Slovakia, to fly Avia B 21, B 33 and B 34 aircraft. In 1933 Seda was posted to the VTLU, Letnany, the Aeronautical Research Centre for the Czech Air Force, as a test pilot, where he flew most of the types of aircraft in service in Czechoslovakia. In March 1935 Seda was one of four applicants accepted from sixty four, to become commercial pilots with Czech Air Lines (CSA). He flew, domestically and internationally, until the German take-over of Czechoslovakia on March 15 1939. He was demobilised on the 17th. With a group of Czech Air Force friends, Seda went to Poland in August, where he reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate in Krakow. Given the choice of joining the Polish Air Force or going to France, the majority decided on the latter and they travelled to Gdynia where they boarded a ship bound for France. On arrival in France Czech airmen were required to join the French Foreign Legion for a five year period with the agreement that, should war be declared, they would be transferred to French military units. Seda was placed at the Legion barracks at Nanterre, near Paris, awaiting transfer to the training base at Sidi-bel-Abbes, Algeria but, before he could be transferred, war was declared and he was transferred to l’Armee de l’Air at Dugny, near Paris and, on October 6, with the rank of Sergeant, he was assigned to the CIC Chartres for retraining on French equipment On May 13 1940, having completed his training, Seda was sent to GCII/2, based at Chissey and equipped with MS-406C aircraft. In the face of the German advance the unit moved from airfield to airfield and was at Montpellier when the armistice was signed. Seda and other Czech airmen were released from French service and went to Port Vendres for evacuation. On June 24 they sailed, aboard the General Chanzy, to Oran, Algeria. They moved on to Casablanca, Morocco, by train, from where they went by boat, the Gib-el-Ders, to Gibraltar. Here they boarded the Neuralia which took them to Liverpool, arriving on July 12. Initially taken to the Czechoslovak Transit Camp, at Cholmondeley, Seda was accepted into the RAFVR, with the rank of Pilot Officer, and transferred to the Czechoslovak Depot, Cosford. On August 6 he joined 310 Squadron at Duxford, and converted to Hurricanes. The squadron was made operational on August 17. His first operational flight was on August 30. During the Battle of Britain Seda damaged a Bf 110 east of London. Seda served with 310 until April 26 1941, when he was posted to 48 MU, Hawarden, as a test pilot. He was later with 8 MU at Little Rissington on October 21 1941, 9 MU at Cosford on January 1 1942, London Aircraft Productions on March 27, 12 MU at Kirkbride on June 3, 45 MU at Kinloss on June 20 and 20 MU Aston Down on March 3 1943. In preparation for a return to operations, Seda was posted to 12 (P) AFU, Grantham for conversion to Beaufighters. He went to 54 OTU, Charter Hall on May 18, for night-fighter training. Here he teamed up with P/O Drahomir Hradsky and, on completion of their training, they joined 68 Squadron at Coltishall on July 20. The unit was equipped with Beaufighter MkVIFs and later converted to Mosquito night fighters. On the night of February 4/5 1944 Seda, with Hradsky, shot down a Ju 88 in flames into the sea off the east coast. With his tour completed, Seda was transferred to Transport Command and posted to 105 (Transport) OTU, Bramcote, for retraining on multi-engined aircraft, after which he was posted to the Metropolitan Communications Squadron at Hendon on January 22 1945. On this unit he ferried VIPs to destinations in liberated Europe. Seda was released from the RAF, as a Flight Lieutenant, on August 17 and repatriated to Czechoslovakia. He remained in the Czech Air Force until his demobilization 1946 when he returned to the Czechoslovak civilian airline (CSA). Following the communist takeover, in February 1948, Czech personnel with wartime RAF service were regarded as tainted. Due to three CSA DC-3 aircraft being hijacked by their crews of former Czechoslovak RAF airmen, to Erding, Germany in March 1950, all other ex-RAF airmen were immediately dismissed from CSA. Seda planned to escape, with former RAF colleagues in mid-December 1950, near Breclev, into Austria. Their guide was a communist informer and Seda was arrested at his flat in Prague before he could travel. He was tried, in Prague, on April 4 1951, and sentenced to fourteen years imprisonment. He served the first four months of the sentence at Bory hard-labour prison and then was at the remedial labour camps at Horni Slakov and Jachymov, mining uranium. He was conditionally released on May 14 1958 and after a long period without work was only able to find employment as an electrician. Seda died in Prague on June 15 1992.

Seddon completed his training at RAF College FTS, Cranwell on No 11 Course, which ran from June 8 to September 6 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 9 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 601 Squadron at Exeter on October 1. Seddon joined 238 Squadron at Chilbolton on November 22 1940. He was killed on March 31 1941. Whilst ferrying a new Hurricane from Carlisle to Duxford, he crashed near Keswick in a snowstorm. Seddon was 23 years old. He is buried in Painswick Cemetery, Gloucestershire. PO 3.10.39 FO 3.10.40

EUGENE GEORGE ACHILLES SEGHERS 82162

PO

Pilot

Belgian

32 and 46 Squadrons

Seghers was a pilot in the Aviation Militaire Belge. In May 1940 he went to France. On June 21 the French signed an Armistice with the Germans and the Belgians in France were told to stay put. At that time Seghers was at Montpellier. With five other Belgian pilots he reached Port Vendres, from where, with the help of a British destroyer and the support of the Belgian embassy in London, they caught a passing convoy and embarked on the SS Apapa on the 24th. After arriving in Liverpool on July 7, Seghers went to Beeston Castle, Cheshire and to 7 S of TT on the 13th He was commissioned in the RAFVR on the 19th and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden the same day. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on August 4. Seghers was shot down by Bf 109s on August 24 and baled out into the sea, unhurt. His Hurricane, V 6567, crashed at Tedders Lees, near Elham. On September 12 1940 he joined 46 Squadron at Stapleford Tawney and on the 27th he damaged a Bf 110. In early April 1941 Seghers was posted to 609 Squadron at Biggin Hill. He destroyed a Bf 109 on July 11 and was awarded the C de G (Belg) (21.7.41). From March to June 1943 Seghers commanded 165 Squadron at Peterhead. He was killed on July 26 1944, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant attached to 91 Squadron at Deanland. He was attacking a V 1 over Uckfield, misjudged his distance and struck it, causing it to explode. After the war his remains were exhumed and repatriated to Belgium. Seghers was awarded the DFC (13.2.43). A memorial to Seghers was unveiled in Uckfield in 2014. PO 19.7.40 FO 19.7.41 FL 19.7.42

RAYMOND FREDERICK SELLERS 111224

Sgt

Pilot

British

111 and 46 Squadrons

Born in London on October 9 1919, Sellers joined the RAFVR in August 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (758100). He was called up at the outbreak of war, went to 3 ITW, Hastings on September 18, to 6 EFTS, Sywell on November 26 and then to 8 FTS, Montrose on April 9 1940. Sellers completed his training on July 25 and to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge. He converted to Hurricanes and joined 111 Squadron on August 17. Following a combat with enemy aircraft over Essex on the 26th, Sellers crashed near Brightwell Church, Martlesham Heath in Hurricane R 4096. He was admitted to hospital with slight injuries and shock. He was non effective sick until September 15 and he joined 46 Squadron at Stapleford on the 15th. Sellers shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 on the 27th. He was posted away to 2 CFS, Cranwell on January 13 1941, for an instructors’ course. He went to 5 EFTS, Meir on March 23. He was instructing for the rest of the war. He was posted to Church Lawford and served with three different units there; with 2 CFS from September 12 1941 to June 28 1942, with No 1 FIS from July 5 toOctober 26 1942 and with 18(P) AFU from October 27 to December 6 1942. Sellers then went to 3 FIS, serving with it from December 7 1942 until July 15 1944. Initially at Castle Camps, the unit moved to Lulsgate Bottom on October 1 1943. He was commissioned in October 1942 and awarded the AFC (8.6.44).

P.O .7.40

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Later in the year Seredyn’s kidney trouble returned and after three months in hospital he went on a long convalescence. On July 2 1941 he joined 13 Group Flight at Turnhouse. Seredyn was later posted to 285 Squadron at Woodvale, on anti-aircraft co-operation duties. Promoted to Warrant Officer on September 1 1943, he joined 286 Squadron later in the month. On May 9 1944 Seredyn was posted to 61 OTU, to prepare for a return to operations. He converted to Mustangs at 3 TEU and joined 315 Squadron at Brenzett, Sussex on September 24. The longrange Mustangs were moved north to Peterhead and they escorted bombers to Norway. Seredyn was awarded the KW (17.8.45). He left the squadron on November 29 1945 and was released from the PAF on May 25 1947 as a Warrant Officer. He married an English lady and settled in England.

The final posting for Sellers was to 7 FIS, Upavon. He was there from July 15 1944 to December 9 1945. He was released from the RAF on the 10th as a Flight Lieutenant. Sellers served in the RAFVR at Fair Oaks from 1946 to 1951. He died on May 16 2010. PO 29.10.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 29.10.43 FO (RAFVR) 17.1.48

JOHN BARRY SELWAY 90219

FO

Pilot

British

604 Squadron

Selway was educated at Brighton College and Pembroke College, Cambridge, where he read Mechanical Sciences. He was a member of the University Air Squadron. Selway joined 604 Squadron, AAF in early 1936 and was commissioned in May. Selway was working in the Department of Civil Aviation in 1939. He was called to full-time service on August 24 and he rejoined 604 at North Weald. On May 10 1940, 604 Squadron provided an escort for Blenheims, detailed to bomb German transport aircraft on the beach at Wassenaar, the Netherlands. During the action, a section of three Blenheims of 604, flown by Selway, in company with Pilot Officer I K S Joll and Sergeant A S MacDonald, shared in the destruction of three Ju 52s. Selway served with 604 in the Battle of Britain. He was detached to the School of Air Navigation, St Athan on July 28 1940 for No 1 Fighter Pilots’ Short Navigation Course, until August 26. During the night of October 22/23 1941 Selway, in a Beaufighter of 604, shot down a Do 217 at night off the French coast and during the night of the 26/27th he damaged a He 111 and on the 27/28th he shot down a Ju 88, which crashed at Wembdon, Somerset. When Selway left 604 in the latter half of 1942, he was the last of the pre-war pilots. In early November 1943 he was posted to 85 Squadron at West Malling, as a Flight Commander. On the night of the 6/7th, on his first operational patrol with the squadron, Selway shot down a FW 190. Shortly afterwards, on the same sortie, he chased a Ju 88. His Mosquito was hit by return fire and Selway was wounded. He managed to get back to base and underwent an emergency operation to remove the nose of a bullet from his liver. He was awarded the DFC (31.12.43). Selway did not return to operations. He was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Wing Commander.

ARTHUR SERVICE 749347

Radar Operator

British

47397

British

600 Squadron

23 Squadron

Senior, of Maidenhead, Berkshire, joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he carried out his elementary training at 10 EFTS, Yatesbury. He moved on to 3 FTS, South Cerney for No 34 Course, which ran from April 28 to August 3 1940.

Pilot

Polish

17 Squadro

MARTIN MICHAEL SHANAHAN 741623

Sgt

Pilot

British

1 Squadron

Shanahan, of Seven Kings, Essex, joined the RAFVR in May 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot, and carried out his elementary flying training at 21 E&RFTS, Stapleford.

ANTONI SEREDYN Sgt

British

PO 25.11.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 25.11.43

Senior arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 3. After converting to Blenheims, he joined 23 Squadron at Wittering on August 18 1940. He was killed on March 21 1941, probably still with 23. Senior was 20 years old. He is buried in Maidenhead Cemetery.

780958

Pilot

Sewell was with 73 Squadron in France in 1940. In early May there were problems in the squadron and Pilot Officer A B Tucker and Sergeant-Pilots Sewell, Speake and Tuckey were ordered from Rheims on May 13 to RAF Depot, Uxbridge. The squadron ORB recorded that ‘these pilots have been adversely reported on by the CO and their respective Flight Commanders’. No action was taken against them and they were posted to other squadrons. Sewell joined 17 Squadron at Kenley on May 25 and went with it to France on June 8. The squadron returned to Debden on June 19. On August 25 1940 Sewell probably destroyed a Bf 109, on September 3 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17, on November 1 he destroyed a Do 17 and on November 8 he probably destroyed two Ju 87s and shared in the probable destruction of another. From November 26 to December 24 1940 Sewell was at CFS, Upavon for an instructor’s course on Masters and Tutors. Commissioned in November 1941, Sewell was killed on March 19 1944, as a Squadron Leader with 166 Squadron, operating in Lancasters from Kirmington, Lincolnshire. His aircraft, ND 705, failed to return from an operation to Frankfurt. He was 28 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 201.

JOHN NORMAN SENIOR Pilot

Sgt

Sewell, of Hall Green, Birmingham, was educated at Wellesbourne House School there. He joined the RAF at Halton in January 1932, as an Aircraft Apprentice (565980) and passed out in December 1934 as a Fitter, Aero Engines. He later applied for pilot training.

He was still an Aircraftsman on October 10 but he was a Sergeant by October 28. No further service details traced

Sgt

29 Squadron

DONALD ALEC SEWELL

Senior joined the RAFVR in June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. He almost certainly volunteered for aircrew duties, went on a short radar course and then joined 600 Squadron in July/August 1940, as a radar operator.

748662

British

Service was killed on October 15 1941, as a Sergeant with 75 Squadron, operating in Wellingtons from Feltwell. His aircraft X 9916, failed to return from an operation to Cologne. Service is buried in Rheinburg War Cemetery, Germany.

BENJAMIN SENIOR Sgt

Wop/AG

Service joined the RAFVR in May 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 29 Squadron at Digby in late September 1940. He was posted away to 5 (Beam Approach Training) Flight on February 4 1941.

PO (AAF) 5.5.36 PO 24.8.39 FO 1.2.40 FL 1.2.41

1002640

Sgt

32 Squadron

Seredyn was born in Torun on August 15 1913. He left Poland in September 1939 and went to Romania. In January 1940 he reached France and arrived in England in February.

Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 18 Course, from February 1 to July 6 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 6, converted to Hurricanes and joined No 1 Squadron on August 5. He was reported ‘Missing’ on the 16th after a combat with enemy fighters off Harwich, in Hurricane P 3043. He was 25 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 19.

Seredyn was enlisted in the RAFVR at RAF Eastchurch on February 27 1940. He moved to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool on June 1 1940, to await a posting. This came on August 26, with a move to the Polish Depot. Whilst there he developed kidney trouble, which delayed his posting. On September 12, Seredyn went to 15 EFTS, Redhill, for testing and grading. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 25, converted to Hurricanes and joined 32 Squadron at Acklington on October 12.

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MICHAEL MORAY SHAND

BRUCE ROBERTSON SHARP

391368

628218

PO

Pilot

New

Zealander 54 Squadron

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

235 Squadron

Born in Wellington on February 20 1915, Shand was at Nelson College from 1929 to 1932. In early 1939 he applied for a short service commission in the RNZAF and was provisionally accepted in July.

Sharp was born in Scotland and educated at George Heriot’s School, Edinburgh. He joined the RAF on November 30 1938, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and was with 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton in early July 1940.

Shand reported to the Ground Training School at Weraroa on November 19 1939, moving one month later to No 1 EFTS, Taieri. In mid-February 1940 he was posted to No 1 FTS, Wigram, was awarded his flying badge on April 26 and after completing the course in late May, Shand sailed for the UK in the RMS Rangitiki on June 7 and arrived on July 20. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting. On August 4 he was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron on the 22nd. Shand flew as Alan Deere’s No 2 on his first operational sortie. On August 25, his second sortie, he was shot down by Bf 109s and made a forced-landing near Manston, badly wounded. After several months in hospital, Shand was posted to RAF Exeter for Operations Room duties. He returned to operations on October 21 1941, when he joined 485 Squadron at Kenley. In May 1942 he was appointed a Flight Commander and later awarded the DFC (16.9.42), having then completed sixty sorties over Northern France. On November 28 Shand was leading six Spitfires on a low-level sweep across the Dutch coast, seeking targets of opportunity. They successfully attacked a tanker-barge on a canal and as they returned, Shand and Sergeant Tucker went down to shoot up a train. They were attacked by two FW 190s and Shand was shot down and taken prisoner. He was held in Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan and Belaria (PoW No 833). He took part in The Great Escape, being the last prisoner to emerge from the tunnel and get away but he was recaptured. He was released from the camp in early May 1945, returning o New Zealand on September 23. He went on to the Reserve on April 10 1946 and then took up farming. He retired in 1978. Shand died on December 20 2007.

On September 11 he flew in one of six Blenheims on an escort operation for FAA Albacores attacking Calais. They were attacked by Bf 109s and Sharp’s aircraft, L 9396, was shot down. Sharp, Flight Lieutenant F W Flood, pilot, and Pilot Officer N B Shorrocks, observer, were all reported ‘Missing’. Sharp was 27. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 19. He is remembered on a memorial plaque at George Heriot’s School.

LESLIE MARK SHARP 85241

PO

Pilot

British

111 Squadron

Sharp, of Belfast, joined the RAFVR about August 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (758214). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 11 FTS, Shawbury on No 21 Course, which ran from June 8 to September 7 1940. Sharp was commissioned on September 7 and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 14th. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 111 Squadron at Drem on October 4 and made his first flight on the 6th, local flying. He was posted away to Cranage on December 18 1940, where he joined 96 Squadron. Sharp was flying with a squadron detachment at Squires Gate on December 28 1940. After a normal night take-off, in Hurricane P 3899, Sharp climbed to 300 feet, then turned to port and crashed into the sea one mile off shore. He was drowned. His body was recovered and he is buried in Carnmoney Jewish Cemetery, Co Antrim.

APO 19.11.39 PO 28.5.40 FO 28.5.41 FL 28.5.42 PO 7.9.40

HERBERT RONALD SHARMAN 78257

PO

Observer

British

RONALD JAMES SHARP

248 Squadron

49537 Sharman was born in Wood Green, Middlesex on October 22 1907 and educated at Eldon Road School and Trinity County School there.

Pilot

British

236 Squadron

Sharp joined the RAF in January 1933, as an Aircrafthand (516055). He later applied for pilot training and was selected. He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot on March 13 1939.

He joined the RAFVR in February 1939 at the age of 31, as an Airman u/t Observer (743095). Sharman was called up at the outbreak of war and was sent to Blackpool for further navigation training. He went to 5 B&GS, Jurby for No 4 Air Observer Course, from January 1 to March 23 1940. He passed out, was commissioned and joined 248 Squadron at North Coates on March 30 1940. Sharman was posted to No 1(C) OTU, Silloth on May 31. He rejoined 248 on June 25. The squadron served with Fighter Command in the Battle of Britain on fighter/reconnaissance duties. In March 1941 Sharman was posted to 31 Air Navigation School, Port Albert, Ontario, Canada for a Specialist Navigation Course, after which he was posted to 33 ANS at Mount Hope, Ontario, as an instructor. Sharman returned to the UK in February 1943 and spent some months going round to operational squadrons, instructing pilots and navigators in the use of new navigational aids. He then joined 297 Squadron, flying in Whitleys engaged in dropping secret agents into enemy-occupied territory. In September 1943 he was posted to 511 Squadron, Transport Command at Lyneham. He flew to many countries, carrying VIPs to the various theatres of war and conferences, including those at Casablanca, Teheran and Yalta. Sharman also made a number of Atlantic crossings, ferrying Liberators from Montreal to the Near and Far East. In March 1944 Sharman went to HQ Transport Command as Deputy Chief Navigation Officer. He made a number of special flights, including over the Himalayas into China, as well as to India, Ceylon and Africa. He was awarded the AFC (7.9.45). Sharman was released from the RAF in September 1945, as a Squadron Leader. He had been on flying duties for his whole six years of service. He died in Poole on December 31 2007, aged 100 PO 24.3.40

Sgt

He was at 9 FTS, Hullavington on No 11 Course, which ran from May 30 to November 6 1939. With his training completed, he joined 236 Squadron at Stradishall on November 6, direct from 11 FTS. He served with 236 throughout the Battle of Britain. On November 19 1940 he was posted with his flight to RAF Aldergrove, where it was combined with a flight from 235 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron on the 21st. He flew his first sortie with 272 on that day. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in July 1942, Sharp was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 10.7.42 FO 10.1.43 FL 10.7.44

HUGH SHARPLEY 742808

Sgt Pilot

British

234 Squadron

Sharpley joined the RAFVR about January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 13 Course, which ran from September 9 to November 6 1939, for advanced training only. He was with 234 Squadron at St Eval by June 18 1940. He flew a sortie on July 24, a section scramble. Sharpley flew no further sorties between July 25 and September 27 and he is known to have been non effective sick from August 8 to September 28. The ORB states that Sharpley was ‘posted back’ to 234. No details of his whereabouts in August and September have been found. On October 15 he shared in damaging a Ju 88 and on the 19th Sharpley damaged a Ju 88. He was killed on November16 1940, still with 234, when he crashed into the sea off Porth, in Spitfire X 4027. Sharpley is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 19.

FO 24.3.41 FL 24.3.42

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WILLIAM GORDON SHARRATT 970537

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

Shaw is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 10. Fragmentary remains from the crash site were buried at Sittingbourne and Milton Cemetery as an unknown pilot.

248 Squadron

Sharratt, of Blackpool, Lancashire, joined the RAFVR in October 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. He completed his training and joined 248 Squadron on October 5 1940.

PO 1.2.40

He was killed on July 2 1941, as a Flight Sergeant with 248. Sharratt was 26. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 37.

HAROLD FREDERICK WILLIAM SHEAD 147535

Sgt

Pilot

British

FREDERICK JAMES SHAW FAA/FX 79970

Petty Officer

Pilot

British

Born in Bow, London on May 24 1920, Shead worked as a law clerk for a practice in Holborn. He joined the RAFVR in March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745401) and carried out his elementary flying training at 21 E&RFTS, Stapleford Tawney.

804 Squadron

Shaw, of Brixton, London, joined 804 Squadron at Hatston on November 30 1939, flying Sea Gladiators on dockyard defence.

Called up at the outbreak of war, Shead went to 3 ITW, Hastings on October 2 1939, was posted to 5 EFTS, Hanworth on December 4 and finished his ab initio course at 10 EFTS, Yatesbury on May 25 1940. Shead then went to 3 FTS, South Cerney until August 23 and with training completed, he arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on the 31st. He converted to Hurricanes, joined 32 Squadron at Acklington on September 21 and to 257 Squadron at North Weald on October 15. Shead was attached to 46 Squadron at Digby on December 28 and posted to 615 Squadron at Kenley on February 20 1941. He went to the recently-reformed 68 Squadron at High Ercall on May 14 but with no twin-engine experience, he was sent to 54 OTU and after converting to Beaufighters, Shead joined 25 Squadron at Wittering on July 18 1941. In May 1942 Shead was posted to the Middle East. After a short spell at 9 ADU,Takoradi, he joined 89 Squadron at Abu Sueir on July 25, as a Warrant Officer. Shead teamed up with Flight Sergeant F W Curtis and they flew together for the first time on October 16 1942. During the night of December 21/22 they destroyed a He 111, a Ju 88 and probably another, on January 8/9 1943 they shot down a He 111, on the 21/22nd and March 16/17 they destroyed Ju 88s. Shead was commissioned in March 1943. He crashed in the desert on June 8, was badly injured and in hospital in Tripoli until August 18. Awarded the DFC (3.9.43), he left 89 Squadron on October 2 and was posted back to England on November 4 1943. He was sent on a Pilot Gunnery Instructor course on December 23 and posted to instruct at 551 Squadron at Twinwoods. He went on a flying instructor’s course at 2 FIS, Montrose on October 4 1944, was posted to 15(P) AFU, Babdown on January 3 1945 and moved to 20 FTS, Church Lawford on May 3. Shead was released from the RAF in October 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. He returned to his old firm and started a three year law course, qualifying at the end of 1948. He remained with the firm, becoming first a junior partner and later a senior one. He died in 1981.

On September 20 1940 Shaw embarked on HMS Furious, with Blue Section of 804. It carried out fighter patrols 100 miles off Trondheim. The section disembarked by air from Furious and returned to Hatston on September 23. Shaw embarked on Furious with one section of 804 on October 11, for operations against Tromso. The weather turned bad and no flying was possible. The section disembarked from Furious and returned to Hatston on October 19. On January 11 1941 a Fulmar, piloted by Shaw, was catapulted from HMS Pegasus to chase a FW Kondor, which was attacking a ship five miles away. The ship had been hit and the Kondor was making for cloud cover by the time the Fulmar arrived at the scene. An unsuccessful pursuit showed the Fulmar to be too slow. This action took place 250 miles off the Irish coast and Shaw was able to land safely at Aldergrove. Shaw was launched in a Fulmar from the Springbank on June 10 1941, to chase a Kondor, 250 miles out in the Atlantic. He fired at the enemy aircraft from long range but the Kondor escaped. Shaw again managed to reach Aldergrove, with only five gallons of petrol left. Shaw’s third launch, again from the Springbank, came on September 25 1941, one day out from Gibraltar on the way home. Again the Kondor was lost. Shaw returned safely to Gibraltar but the Springbank was torpedoed by a U-boat. She floated for more than eighteen hours and was finally sunk by one of the escort. On August 2 1942 Shaw was killed when his Martlet crashed into the sea, apparently through engine failure, when attempting to land on HMS Illustrious. He was 28 and is remembered on the Fleet Air Arm Memorial at Lee-on-Solent.

IAN GARSTIN SHAW 40265

FO

Pilot

British

264 Squadron

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 23 1937. Shaw was posted to 7 FTS, Peterborough on October 24 and on completion of the course, he joined the SHQ at RAF Gosport. Shaw was posted to 264 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on July 5 1940. On August 21 the squadron went south to Hornchurch for what was to be its last spell of day-fighting. He failed to return from combat with Bf 109s off Manston on the 24th, in Defiant L 7027. He may have been shot down by Major LŸtzow of JG 3. Shaw and his gunner, Sergeant A Berry, were both reported ‘Missing’. Shaw is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 6.

PO 3.3.43 FO 3.9.43 FL 3.3.45

HORACE SHEARD 638019

ROBERT HENRY SHAW PO

Pilot

British

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

236 Squadron

Sheard, of Dewsbury, Yorkshire, joined the RAF in March 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He volunteered for aircrew duties, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. He completed his training and joined 236 Squadron at Thorney Island on July 24 1940. He made his first operational sortie on August 20.

APO 24.10.37 PO 23.8.38 FO 23.3.40

77465

32 and 257 Squadrons

1 Squadron Sheard was killed on March 21 1941, still with 236. He was 20. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 52.

Born at Astley Bridge, Bolton on July 28 1916, Shaw joined the RAFVR on October 1 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740658). He reported for full-time service at the Manchester Transit Centre on September 2 1939.

DESMOND FREDERICK BURT SHEEN 39474

Shaw was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand for No 42 Course, which ran from September 11 1939 to January 27 1940. With training completed, he was commissioned and posted to 11 Group Pool, St Athan on February 1 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, Shaw joined No 1 Squadron in France on March 14. The squadron was withdrawn from Nantes to Tangmere on June 18. After being attacked by a British fighter over the Sussex coast on August 1 1940, Shaw made a forced-landing back at Tangmere, with damaged aileron controls. He failed to return from a patrol on September 3 1940, in Hurricane P 3782. The aircraft crashed at Parkhouse Farm, Chart Sutton. Shaw was reported ‘Missing’. A memorial garden was later established at the site of the crash. This garden has now been maintained for many years by the Headcorn Branch of RAFA with financial donations from the Shaw family. A commemorative ceremony is held at the garden every year.

FL

Pilot

Australian

72 Squadron

Born in Sydney on October 2 1917, Sheen grew up in Canberra and joined the RAAF in January 1936 and carried out his flying training as an air cadet at Point Cook. He transferred to the RAF in February 1937, was posted to 9 FTS, Thornaby on March 20 and with training completed, he joined 72 Squadron at Church Fenton on June 30 1937. Still with the squadron at the outbreak of war, Sheen damaged a He 115 floatplane over the North Sea on October 21 1939 and shared a He 111 on December 7. He was wounded in this latter action and admitted to hospital. On April 20 1940 Sheen was posted to 212 Squadron, part

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JOHN BEAN SHEPHERD

of the Photographic Development Unit at Heston, and went with a 212 detachment to France. He was awarded the DFC (7.5.40). After their aircraft were bombed on the ground in France, the detachment was forced to evacuate its base on June 14 1940. Sheen and the other pilots made their way back to England by way of Gibraltar, reaching Heston on July 12. 212 Squadron had been disbanded on June 18 and Sheen and the other pilots joined ‘C’ Flight PRU on its formation at Heston on July 24. Sheen was posted back to 72 Squadron, then at Acklington, on July 29, as ‘A’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. On August 15 he destroyed a Bf 110, a He 111 and a Ju 88. Sheen was shot down in an engagement with Bf 109s on September 1 and baled out, unhurt. His Spitfire, X 4109, crashed at Court Lodge Farm, Ham Street. On the 4th he claimed a probable Bf 110. The next day Sheen was surprised by a Bf 109 over Kent and baled out, wounded. He was taken to Queen Mary’s Hospital, Sidcup. His Spitfire, X 4034, crashed at Wildage Farm, Bladbean. He rejoined the squadron on October 13 1940 and re-assumed command of ‘A’ Flight on November 5. Sheen destroyed a Ju 88 during the night of March 13/14 1941. He took command of 72 Squadron in April, damaged Bf 109s on August 17 and 29 and probably destroyed another on October 2. He was posted away from 72 in October 1941 and awarded a Bar to the DFC (21.10.41). He commanded RAF Manston from November 10 1942 to April 18 1943, then commanded RAF Skeabrae and later RAF Drem. From March 1944 until January 1945 Sheen commanded HQ 148 Wing. He was then posted to the staff of Air HQ Middle East, Cairo. Sheen was released from the RAF in late 1946 and returned to Australia. He rejoined the RAF, with a Permanent Commission and the rank of Squadron Leader, as of January 1 1950. He commanded 502, RAuxAF Squadron from 1950 to 1952. In 1954 he was with the Air Fighting Unit at the CFE and in 1955 he was posted to RAF Leuchars, as Wing Commander Flying. He was one of the twelve serving Group Captains who had flown in the Battle of Britain to march in Sir Winston Churchill’s funeral procession in 1965. Sheen retired on January 2 1971 as a Group Captain. He then joined BAC/British Aerospace, to administer the company’s BAC 111 and Concorde marketing teams. Sheen died in June 2001.

104447

Sgt

Pilot

Called up on August 24 1939, Shepherd was posted to 11 EFTS, Perth on October 21. With training completed, he arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 234 Squadron at St Eval on September 18. He damaged a Ju 88 on March 23 1941, shared a Bf 109 on June 17 and shared a probable Ju 88 on August 12. Commissioned in August 1941, Shepherd destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged one on October 15. In early 1942 he was posted to 118 Squadron at Predannack. Shepherd shared a Do 217 over Dieppe on August 19 and was awarded the DFC (22.9.42). He was then a Flight Commander. On July 18 1943 he destroyed a Bf 109 and shared another, on the 25th he damaged a Bf 109 and on August 2 he probably destroyed another. Tour-expired, he was awarded a Bar to the DFC (27.8.43) and posted away, destination of posting unknown. In June 1944 Shepherd joined 610 Squadron at Harrowbeer. He destroyed seven V 1s between June 20 and August 4. The squadron went to Armament Practice Camp at Warmwell in February 1945 and Shepherd took temporary command. Whilst there, the squadron was informed that it was being disbanded on March 3. Shepherd took command of 41 Squadron at Eindhoven in early April 1945. On the 14th he shot down a Bf 110 towing a Me 163 rocket fighter, on the 16th destroyed a FW 190, on the 20th a FW 190 and shared another, on the 30th a Bf 109 and a FW 190 and on May 1 he shared another FW 190. He was awarded a second Bar to the DFC (1.9.45). On January 22 1946 Shepherd was killed in a flying accident. He was 26 and he is buried in Hamburg Cemetery, Ohlsdorf, Germany. PO 21.8.41 FO 8.2.42 FL 8.2.43

DOUGLAS CLAYTON SHEPLEY 33464

PO

Pilot

Wop/AG

British

264 Squadron

Commissioned in January 1943, he was killed on July 27 1944, as a Flying Officer with 31 (SAAF) Squadron. He was a member of the crew of Liberator KG 826, shot down by a night fighter while returning from an attack on the oil refinaries at Ploesti, Romania. The aircraft came down in the Adriatic and there were no surviviors. Shepherd’s was one of three bodies recovered. Shepherd was 28 and he is buried in Bari War Cemetery, Italy. PO 8.1.43 FO 8.7.43

FREDERICK ERNEST RICHARD SHEPHERD Sgt

Pilot

British

152 Squadron

In January 1938 Shepley entered RAF College, Cranwell, as a Flight Cadet. After the outbreak of war, Cranwell cadets who had not completed their courses, were enlisted in the regular RAF, as Airmen u/t Pilots and each given an airman number. Shepley (581763) graduated, with a Permanent Commission, on October1 1939. He then joined 152 Squadron, which was reforming at Acklington. On August 8 Shepley destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another and on the 11th he probably destroyed another. He was reported ‘Missing’ on the 12th, after an attack on Ju 88s S of the Isle of Wight, in Spitfire K 9999. Shepley is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 10. He was 22. After his death, his mother and widow raised £5,700 in North Derbyshire and South Yorkshire, to buy a Spitfire. The aircraft, W 3649, a MK Vb, was named Shepley and it was issued to 602 Squadron on August 16 1941. The aircraft was taken over by Group Captain F V Beamish for his personal use, with the code FV-B. He was flying it when he and Wing Commander R F Boyd saw the Scharnhort and Gneisenau. The Spitfire was lost on March 28 1942, when Beamish was shot down in it and killed. In the winter of 1979 a public house at Totley, Yorkshire, called The Shepley Spitfire, was declared open by Shepley’s only surviving brother, Seymour. Shepley’s sister, Auxiliary Territorial Service Nurse Jeanne Shepley, died on October 18 1939, aged 25. She was lost in the sinking of the SS Yorkshire, torpedoed by the U 37.WNW of Cape Ortegal. She is remembered at Brookwood. One of Shepley’s brothers, Flight Lieutenant G R Shepley DFC, was killed on May 31 1940, aged 28. He was serving as a pilot with 16 Squadron and was lost on a tactical reconnaissance sortie; Pilot Officer Hare was also lost. G R Shepley is buried at Pihen-lesGuines, France.

Shepherd, of Leyland, Lancashire, joined the RAFVR in September 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (967738). He completed his training and was with 264 Squadron at Duxford in early July 1940. He served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain.

811129

British

Shepley was born at Carlton-in-Lindrick in 1918, the youngest of five brothers. He was at Oundle School from September 1931 to 1935, when he left to join his father’s business.

FRANCIS WILLIAM SHEPHERD Sgt

234 Squadron

Shepherd, of Edinburgh, joined 603 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand (803581). When the AAF introduced a scheme to train its own NCO pilots, he remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot in April 1939.

PO 19.2.37 FO 19.9.38 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41 WC 1.7.44 SL 1.1.50 WC 1.1.56 GC 1.1.64

139477

British

611 Squadron

Shepherd joined 611 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand. When the AAF introduced a scheme to train its own NCO pilots, he remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot, with the rank of LAC. Called up on August 24 1939, Shepherd completed his elementary training at 11 EFTS, Perth from October 21 1939. He moved on to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth. With the course completed on August 17 1940, he was posted back to 611 Squadron at Digby. Shepherd was immediately attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down and after converting to Spitfires, he rejoined 611 on September 1. He made a forced-landing near Henlow on September 9, out of fuel during a routine flight from Fowlmere. On the 11th his aircraft was set alight during a combat over Croydon. He baled out, with parachute in flames, and fell dead at Frylands Wood, Farleigh. His Spitfire, P 7298, crashed into Nos 49 and 51 Hartland Way, Shirley. Shepherd was 22. He is buried in St Luke’s churchyard, Whyteleafe, Surrey.

PO 1.10.39

EDMUND ERIC SHEPPERD 566529

Sgt

Pilot

British

152 Squadron

Shepperd was born at Binstead, Isle of Wight in 1917. He joined the RAF in September 1933, as an Aircraft Apprentice and passed out in August 1936, as a Wireless Mechanic. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. With his training completed, Shepperd joined 152 Squadron at Acklington, when it reformed on October 1 1939.

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on October 10 and joined 41 Squadron at Catterick. He reengaged for another eight year stint in the RAF on May 26 1938. At the outbreak of war Shipman was still with 41. He shared in the destruction of a He 111 twenty-five miles E of Whitby on October 17 1939. He was commissioned in April 1940. On August 15 Shipman claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and on the 21st a He 111. He was posted away to 8 FTS, Montrose on October 19 1940 and on the same day he was attached to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course. Shipman returned to CFS on March 16 1941, as an instructor and later a Flight Commander. He was recategorised as an A2 flying instructor in late 1941 and then served at 3 FIS, Castle Combe. In 1942 he did a course at ECFS, Hullavington He was recategorised A1 and posted to CFS, Norton, Southern Rhodesia in 1943, as an instructor. He later became CFI and then CO at Norton. Shipman was awarded the AFC (1.1.45). He returned to the UK in 1945 and went to ECFS, Hullavington, as a staff tutor. He retired from the RAF on December 9 1959, as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. Shipman died in 1998.

On January 29 1940 Shepperd damaged a He 111 and on February 3 he shared in destroying a He 111. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on July 25 1940, two Ju 88s on August 12, a Ju 87 on the 18th, damaged a Bf 110 on September 30 and destroyed a Ju 88 on October 7. Shepperd was killed on October 18 1940 when his Spitfire, R 6607, flew into the ground in bad visibility at Tadnoll Mill, near Dorchester, cause unknown. He was 23 years old and is buried in Binstead Cemetery, Isle of Wight. Shepperd’s father, Private J E Shepperd, died on April 8 1919, aged 32. He served with the Hampshire Regiment and died from wounds suffered in France. He is buried in Ryde Cemetery, Isle of Wight.

GEORGE EDWARD SHEPPERD 523887

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

219 Squadron

Shepperd, of Sidcup, Kent, joined the RAF on September 10 1935, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner.

PO 1.4.40 FO 1.4.41 FL 1.4.42 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.7.51

SIDNEY HARRY JAMES SHIRLEY

He completed his training and was serving with 219 Squadron at Catterick in June 1940. On September 30 he was a member of the crew of Blenheim L 1261, which disintegrated and crashed during a routine patrol, cause unknown. Shepperd, Sergeant C Goodwin, pilot and AC 2 J P McCaul, radar operator, were all killed. Shepperd was 23. He is buried in Catterick Cemetery.

804422

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

236 Squadron

After training, he joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on July 24 1940. Sheridan remained with the squadron until March 18 1942, when he was posted to 280 Squadron at Detling, an Air Sea Rescue unit. In June 1944 Sheridan was posted to 53 Squadron at St Eval, operating in Liberators, on anti-submarine patrols. The squadron also flew patrols from Iceland. Sheridan was released in January 1946, as a Warrant Officer.

Pilot

British

604 Squadron

NORMAN BASIL SHORROCKS 78265

PO

Observer

British

235 Squadron

Shorrocks joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (755200). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 4 B&GS, West Freugh, was commissioned and joined 235 Squadron at North Coates on April 1 1940.

THOMAS BALDWIN ALOYSIUS SHERRINGTON PO

British

On August 24 he was flying in a Blenheim, L 6681, which crashed near Odiham during a night patrol, cause unknown. Shirley and his pilot, Flying Officer H Speke, were both unhurt. The aircraft was repairable. After the advent of the Beaufighter, Shirley retrained as a Radio Observer. He was posted away from 604 in May 1941, to join 35 Squadron, operating in Halifaxes from Lintonon-Ouse, as an air gunner. Shirley failed to return from an operation to La Pallice on July 24 1941. The aircraft, L 9527, was shot down at Angles, Vendée. Shirley was then a Flight Sergeant, aged 32. He is buried in Angles Communal Cemetery, France.

Joined the RAF in May 1939 and trained as a wireless operator. At the outbreak of war Sheridan volunteered for aircrew duties, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG.

42082

Air Gunner

Shirley, of Wembley, joined 604 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand. Called up on August 24 1939, he later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and was detached from 604 to No 1 AAS, Manby for a special gunnery course from October 8 to November 5 1939. He completed his training and was entitled to wear the new Air Gunner badge from February 29 1940.

STEPHEN SHERIDAN 644861

Sgt

92 Squadron He was a member of the crew of Blenheim, L 9396, which failed to return from an escort-operation for FAA Albacores attacking Calais on September 11 1940. It was presumed to have been shot down into the sea by Bf 109s. All three men on board were reported ‘Missing’, Shorrocks, Flight Lieutenant F W Flood, pilot, and Sergeant B R Sharp, gunner. Shorrocks was 29. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 10.

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 27 1939. After completing his training, Sherrington arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on November 20 1939.

PO 24.3.40

After converting to Hurricanes he was transferred to No 2 Ferry Pilot Pool on December 21 as a reserve for France. In March 1940 Sherrington was posted to 92 Squadron at Croydon. On September 27 he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88, on October 25 destroyed a Bf 109, on the 27th damaged a Do 17 and on the 29th damaged a Bf 110. Sherrington was posted to 53 OTU, Heston in February 1941, as an instructor and he was later OC 4 Squadron at 61 OTU. He was released from the RAF in 1947 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on March 1 2008.

The Lord SHUTTLEWORTH (served as R U P Kay-Shuttleworth) 70356 FO Pilot British 145 Squadron Richard Ughtred Paul Kay-Shuttleworth was born on October 30 1913, the son of Lawrence Ughtred KayShuttleworth, barrister-at-law.

APO 27.5.39 PO 18.11.39 FO 18.11.40 FL 18.11.41 His father was killed in action on March 30 1917, aged 29. He was serving as a Captain in the Royal Field Artillery and is buried in Villers Cemetery, France. Kay-Shuttleworth was educated at Eton and Balliol College, Oxford, reading Modern History. He was in the University Air Squadron and was commissioned in Class ‘AA’ of the RAFO in July 1937. He relinquished this when commissioned in the RAFVR in December 1938. A JP and a County Councillor for Lancashire, KayShuttleworth succeeded his grandfather to the title on December 20 1939, becoming the 2nd Baron. Called to full-time service on September 25 1939, he completed his training and went

EDWARD ANDREW SHIPMAN 43364

PO Pilot

British

41 Squadron

Born on December 9 1909, Shipman joined the RAF as an Aircrafthand (512770) on May 26 1930. He signed for an eight-year engagement. He remustered as a driver on January 1 1931 and on March 17 1933, as a Fitter, Aero Engines. Shipman later applied for pilot training and he was selected. He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot on January 27 1936. He began his ab initio course at 4 E&RFTS, Brough on January 17 1936. He went to 9 FTS, Thornaby on April 5, was awarded his flying badge on June 27, completed the course

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On August 2 he was posted to 57 OTU, at Hawarden, as an Instructor. On March 22 1942 he was posted to 310 Squadron at Warmwell. Due to problems with the wound he received in France, Sika had to return to hospital, this time to the RAF Hospital, Matlock. He was discharged on June 1 and posted to nonoperational duties with 2 DF, at Colerne, as a ferry pilot. A month later he was posted to 2 Flying Instructor School, at Upavon, for a Flying Instructor Course. Upon completion of this training, on August 26, Sika was sent to 11 (Pilot) Advanced Flying Unit, at Wittering. Sika was posted back to 310 Squadron, now at Exeter, on March 12 1943. On July 3 1944 he was posted to the Czechoslovak Depot, Cosford, to await a further deployment. Due to his aerial gunnery experience, Sika was sent to a gunnery instructor course at the Central Gunnery School, Catfoss and then to 18 Armament Practice Camp at Fairwood Common. Despite his wish to return to operational flying, Sika’s medical condition prevented him from returning to daytime operations and so he volunteered for night fighters. On December 5 1944 he went to 12 Advanced Flying School for retraining and on January 7 1945 he was posted to 51 OTU, Cranfield, for night fighter training. On March 18, whilst returning from a training flight in Mosquito HK 280, he had to make a belly landing. Neither he, nor Warrant Officer Oldfich Kanovsky, his radar operator, were injured.He completed his training in March 1945 and was posted to 25 Squadron, based at Castle Camps. At the end of the war Sika was released from the RAF and returned to Czechoslovakia in August 1945. He remained in the Czechoslovak Air Force and was assigned to the Military Aviation Academy, at Prostejov, as a gunnery instructor. On January 31 1947 he left the Air Force and joined BATA as a pilot in the commercial airfleet. Following the communist takeover, in February 1948, Czech personnel with wartime RAF service were regarded as tainted. In January 1949 the communist authorities cancelled Sika’s pilot’s licence and only permitted him to do menial work. Sika died on January 26 1976 at Zlin, Czechoslovakia.

on a staff appointment at HQ 23 Group on April 24 1940. He joined 145 Squadron at Tangmere on May 20. On July 11 Shuttleworth shared in the destruction of a He 111, on the 29th he shared a Ju 88 and on August 1 he shared a Hs 126. He failed to return from a combat with Ju 87s and Bf 110s over a convoy S of the Isle of Wight on August 8 1940, in Hurricane P 3163. Shuttleworth was reported ‘Missing’. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 6. His uncle, Captain the Hon E J Kay-Shuttleworth died on July 10 1917, aged 27. He was serving with the 7th Battalion of the Rifle Brigade. He is buried in Barbon churchyard, Cumbria. Lord Shuttleworth’s brother, who served as Captain the Hon R O L Kay-Shuttleworth, the 3rd Baron, died on November 17 1942, aged 25. He was with the 138th Field Regiment, Royal Artillery. He is buried in Tabarka Ras Rajel War Cemetery, Tunisia. PO (RAFO) 27.7.37 PO (RAFVR) 5.12.38 PO 25.9.39 FO 15.12.39

FREDERICK ALBERT SIBLEY 758073

Sgt

Pilot

British

238 Squadron

Sibley joined the RAFVR about August 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 8 FTS, Montrose on No 18 Course, which ran from April 9 to July 25 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 29. He crashed at Needham Hall, near Wisbech on August 15, after engine failure in Hurricane P 3528, unhurt. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 238 Squadron at Middle Wallop on August 19. Sibley made a forced-landing at Charmy Down on September 25 after an action with He 111s and Bf 110s S of Yeovil. He was unhurt but his Hurricane, N 2597, was written off. He was reported ‘Missing’ after combat with enemy fighters over Poole Harbour on October 1 1940, in Hurricane P 3599. Sibley was 26. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 19.

P.O 24.7.43 F.O. 24.1.44

JAROSLAV SIKA 158967

Sgt

Pilot

FRANK HARRY SILK Czechoslovakian

43 Squadron

111979

Sgt

Pilot

Sika was born on April 16 1918 in Borotin, Tabor, Czechoslovakia.

British

111 Squadron

Silk was born on May 12 1917. He joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754592). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 8 FTS, Montrose on No 18 Course, from April 9 to July 25 1940.

On October 1 1936 he joined the Military Aviation Academy, at Prostojov, as a cadet. He graduated on June 15 1938 and was assigned, at the rank of LAC, to the 45th Fighter Squadron of the 3rd Aviation Regiment which was based at Piestany airfield and equipped with Avia B-534 fighter aircraft. When the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939 the Czechoslovak Air Force was disbanded and he was demobilised on the 17th. He escaped to Poland on June 18 and reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate. He was placed in transit accommodation whilst arrangements were made for him to travel to France. He boarded the Sobieski at Gdynia and sailed for Boulogne, France, arriving on June 29. On arrival in France, Czech airmen were required to join the French Foreign Legion for a five year period with the agreement that, should war be declared, they would be transferred to French military units. Sika was placed at the Legion barracks at Nanterre, near Paris, awaiting transfer to the training base at Sidi-bel-Abbes, Algeria but, before he could be transferred, war was declared and he was transferred to l’Armee de l’Air at Dugny, near Paris On September 29, at the rank of Caporal, he was transferred to the CIC, at Chartres, for retraining on to MS-406C aircraft and other French equipment. He completed training on March 8 1940 and was posted to GCI/8 which was based at Maupertus, near Cherbourg, and equipped with MB-151C aircraft. On May 17 he shared in the destruction of a Hs 126 and a He 111 and on the 25th he shared a Do 17. On June 3, during a flight from Nancy to Thieux, he was shot down by friendly antiaircraft fire and suffered head injuries. He crash landed and was taken to the Military Hospital at Troyes where he stayed for twelve days. With the rapid advance of the German forces, GCI/8 was constantly retreating westwards through France. By mid-June the unit was at Corme-Ecluse in south west France. The Czechoslovak airmen of the unit were released from French service and travelled to the port of Bayonne where they boarded a ship which took them to Falmouth. On arrival in England Sika was at the RAF Hospital, Padgate, Lancashire between June 28 and July 18 for treatment and recuperation from the head wound he had received in France. He was accepted into the RAFVR (787382) on July 25 and transferred to the Czechoslovak Airmen’s Depot at Cosford. On September 21, with the rank of Sergeant, he was posted to 6 OTU for conversion to Hurricanes. He joined 43 Squadron at Usworth on October 7. During a flight on February 9 1941, his Hurricane had coolant leakage problems and he made a forced landing, north of Berwick. He was uninjured. On May 19 he was posted to the newly formed 313 Squadron at Catterick which was equipped with Spitfires. On July 19 he was posted to 452 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey but on the next day he was posted to 72 Squadron, at Gravesend. He shot down a Bf 109 on July 23

He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 25 and after he had converted to Hurricanes, Silk was posted to 111 Squadron at Croydon on August 17. He made a forced-landing near Lullingstone Castle on September 5, after a combat with Bf 109s over North Kent, slightly wounded. He went to hospital. On September 24 he was posted to RAF Kenley, as noneffective sick. He rejoined 111 Squadron, then at Dyce, on November 26 1940. Silk joined 91 Squadron at Hawkinge on June 25 1941. He was commissioned in November 1941 and in January 1942 he became a Flight Commander. On July 1 1942 he went on the Special Duties List, as a test pilot at Hawker, on production testing. In February 1944 Silk was with 4 Squadron, a photo-reconnaissance unit at Aston Down. He was awarded the DFC (10.4.45), as a Flight Lieutenant with 4. He was then on his second period at Hawker, again as a test pilot. Silk retired from the RAF on February 25 1958 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on August 25 1970. PO 21.11.41 FO 15.5.42 FL 15.5.43 FL 1.9.45

WILLIAM GERALD SILVER 563391

Sgt

Pilot

British

152 Squadron

Silver was educated at Portsmouth Junior Technical School. He joined the RAF in January 1929, as an Aircraft Apprentice and passed out in December 1931, as a Fitter. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. Silver was a staff pilot at 7 B&GS when he was temporarily attached to 4 Ferry Pilot Pool from May 17 to 20 1940. Silver was with 152 Squadron from June 10 to September 2 and then possibly at 7 OTU, Hawarden from September 2 to 16, when he rejoined 152 Squadron, then at Warmwell. On September 25 he was shot down in combat over the Portsmouth area in Spitfire P 9463. His aircraft was reported to have been jumped by a Bf 109 after which the Spitfire dived vertically into the sea. Silver was 27. He is buried in Milton Road Cemetery, Portsmouth.

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GEORGE FREDERICK SILVESTER 113838

Sgt

Pilot

British

In May 1941 Simmonds joined 118 Squadron at Ibsley, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. He went to 10 B&GS, Warmwell in November for gunnery training and in December was appointed OC Gunnery Training Flight at 52 OTU, Aston Down. In 1942 Simmonds became CGI at the Fighter Gunnery Instructors’ Wing at CGS, Sutton Bridge. He returned to operations in 1943, with 118 Squadron at Coltishall. He damaged a FW 190 on April 4 1943. He was later with 322 Squadron. In late 1944 Simmonds was at HQ Fighter Command, as Armament Training Staff Officer. He commanded the Armament Wing at A&AEE, Boscombe Down in 1945. Simmonds was released from the RAF in early 1946 as a Squadron Leader. He worked briefly for Pan-American Airways before buying Manor Farm, where he began raising livestock. He died in February 2005 and his ashes are buried under an oak tree at his farm. On May 26 2006 a stained glass window, designed by his widow, Mrs Shirley Simmonds and made at Salisbury Cathedral, was dedicated in his memory at Burley Parish Church, Hampshire. Beside the window is a memorial plaque, with Winston Churchill’s quotation, ‘Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few’.

245 and 229 Squadrons

Silvester was born in Gravesend on November 9 1920 and educated at the Grammar School there. He began training as a Quantity Surveyor. He joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745734) and began flying in the weekends at 20 E&RFTS, Gravesend. Called to full-time service at the outbreak of war, Silvester was posted to 3 ITW, Hastings on October 3 1939. He moved to 5 EFTS, Hanworth on December 4 and to 10 EFTS, Yatesbury on April 29 1940. Silvester did his intermediate and advanced training at 2 FTS, Brize Norton, from May 25 to August 31. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 1 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick on September 27. This was a posting error and next day he flew in a Whitley to join 245 Squadron at Aldergrove, for further training. He flew his first operational sortie on October 11 and his final one with 245 on the 14th. He then moved to 229 Squadron at Northolt on October 16 and flew his first sortie on the 19th. He was posted to 145 Squadron at Tangmere on January 21 1941, was commissioned in early December and left on the 24th to go to 52 OTU, Aston Down, as an instructor. In mid-March 1942 Silvester went to CFS, Uapvon, for an instructor’s course. He returned to Aston Down and on July 10 1942 he was posted to the 52nd Pursuit Group (USAF) at Eglinton to instruct American pilots on Spitfires. On September 29 1942 Silvester joined 154 Squadron at Wellingore. He went with the squadron to North Africa in November 1942. He was posted to 242 Squadron at Souk-elKhemis on March 13 1943, as a Flight Commander. He destroyed a Bf 110 on July 13 and destroyed a Mc 202 and damaged a Bf 109 on the 25th Tour-expired, Silvester left the squadron at the end of July 1943 and went to 73 OTU, Abu Sueir on August 19, as an instructor. He moved to 76 OTU, Aquir on December 1. Silvester returned to operations on July 12 1944, when he was given command of 32 Squadron at Foggia. He was awarded the DFC (17.10.44) and led the squadron until April 19 1946, when he returned to the UK. He went on to the Reserve in January 1950 and he died in 1983.

APO 2.9.39 PO 2.3.40 FO 2.3.41 FL 2.3.42

GEOFFREY MERVYN SIMPSON 41481

Pilot

British

111 Squadron

Sim, of Stewarton, Ayrshire, was born in Kilmarnock in 1917. He joined the RAFVR in November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 26 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, Sim was posted to 111 Squadron at Croydon on July 7. On August 11 he failed to return from a combat off Margate. His Hurricane, P 3942, is presumed to have crashed into the Channel. Sim is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 19. Sim’s brother, Leading Airman A B Sim, died on May 28 1944, aged 20. He was serving on the aircraft carrier HMS Victorious.. He is buried in Stewarton Cemetery, Ayrshire.

VERNON CHURCHILL SIMMONDS 42653

PO

Pilot

British

New Zealander

229 Squadron

In mid-June 1938 Simpson was provisionally accepted for an RAF short service commission and he sailed for the UK in the RMS Rangitata on August 25. Simpson began his ab initio course at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty on October 6 1938 , then, after a short spell at Uxbridge, he went to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on December 28. He was awarded his flying badge on May 6 1939 and after completing his senior term, he went to 8 ATS, Lossiemouth in August, for training on Wallace and Henley aircraft. On October 6 1939 Simpson joined 229 Squadron, newly-reformed at Digby with Blenheims. In March 1940 these were replaced by Hurricanes. On May 16 Flight Lieutenant F E Rosier led ‘A’ Flight to France, Simpson included. On the 18th he destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 21st he destroyed two He 111s. 229 Squadron took part in operations over Dunkirk, based at Biggin Hill and using Manston as its forward base. On May 29 Simpson damaged a Bf 109 and on the 31st he probably destroyed a Do 17. After being sent to Digby on June 5, the squadron moved to Wittering at the end of the month, to build up again to operational strength. The squadron moved south to Northolt on September 9. On the 15th Simpson shared in destroying a He 111. On October 15 he damaged a Bf 109. On October 26 1940 229 took off to patrol the Croydon area, in company with 302 Squadron. A number of Bf 109s were seen and 302, followed by 229, gave chase, pursuing the enemy fighters to the French coast. They lost them and turned for home. Simpson, leading Blue Section, saw a He 59 flying low off the coast in the vicinity of Boulogne. He went down, accompanied by Sergeant Ommaney and Pilot Officer D B H McHardy. After two bursts from Ommaney, the floatplane alighted on the sea, with three of its four crew killed. The Hurricanes were then attacked from the rear by Bf 109s and ground fire from the shore. Ommaney made off at low-level across the Channel and reached his base. Simpson and McHardy were last seen, heavily engaged by Bf 109s, and failed to return. McHardy was later reported to be a PoW but Simpson was not heard of again. He was in Hurricane W 6669. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 6 and his name is on the reredos in St George’s Chapel of Remembrance at Biggin Hill.

ROBERT BLACK SIM Sgt

Pilot

Born in Christchurch on June 22 1919, Simpson was at Christ’s College there from 1933 to 1935. He was employed as a clerk and joined the territorials in February 1936, serving in the 1st Canterbury Regiment.

PO 4.12.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 4.12.43 FL 1.9.45

742609

PO

238 Squadron APO 14.12.38 PO 6.10.39

Simmonds was born in 1919. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio training on July 10 1939 at 12 E&RFTS, Prestwick.

JOHN WILLIAM CHARLES SIMPSON 37642

He moved on to 9 FTS, Hullavington and completed his course at 15 FTS, Lossiemouth. He was then posted to a Specialist Armament Officers’ Course at No 1 AAS, Manby. On July 15 1940 Simmonds went to 7 OTU, Hawarden and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 238 Squadron at Middle Wallop on the 29th. Simmonds destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged four others on August 13, he damaged a Ju 88 on September 12, he damaged He 111s on September 15 and 25 and destroyed another Bf 110 on the 26th. He landed at Andover on the 28th, out of fuel, following a combat over the Isle of Wight, and crashed, attempting to take off. On the 30th Simmonds baled out after colliding with Pilot Officer R A Kings. His Hurricane, N 2474, crashed near Shaftesbury.

FL

Pilot

British

43 Squadron

Simpson was born at Ramsay St Mary’s, Huntingdonshire on March 14 1913. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty on January 6 1936. Simpson was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on March 21 and with training completed, he joined 43 Squadron at Tangmere on October 11 1936. In December he became squadron adjutant. Still with 43, Simpson shared in the destruction of a He 111 on February 3 1940. He was made ‘A’ Flight Commander on May 9 1940, as Acting Flight Lieutenant. On this day he shared in the destruction of a Do 17. Over Dunkirk on June 1, Simpson destroyed two Bf 109s and on the 7th he destroyed two Bf 109s and a Bf 110 over Abbeville. He was awarded the DFC (25.6.40).

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IVOR REGINALD SIMS

Simpson destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another on July 19. He was then shot down himself and baled out, landing in a cucumber frame at Worthing and he suffered a broken collar bone and was wounded in the ankle. His Hurricane, P 3140, crashed into the Channel off Felpham. Simpson was non-effective sick until October 8 1940, when he returned to 43. On November 30 he probably destroyed a Ju 88, which crashed into the sea. On December16 1940 Simpson joined 245 Squadron at Aldergrove and he took command on the 19th. On April 8/9 1941 he destroyed a He 111 at night over Belfast, the first German aircraft to fall on Northern Ireland. On May 5/6 he shot down another He 111 at night and on the 13th he shot down a Do 17. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (30.5.41). In mid-June 1941 Simpson was posted away to a staff job. In November 1942 he was in Gibraltar, as a Wing Commander, and in January 1943 he was in North Africa, as a Group Captain. Still serving in the RAF, Simpson died on August 12 1949, reportedly by his own hand. He is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Tangmere. His portrait was done by Eric Kennington and Cuthbert Orde.

120223

Sgt

Observer

British

248 Squadron

Sims, of Gloucester, joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (755361). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 248 Squadron in Spring 1940. He was posted to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth on May 31 and rejoined 248 on June 25 1940. Sims flew with Flying Officer E H McHardy from September 1940 until July 1941, when 248 converted to Beaufighters. In 1942 Sims was with 604 Squadron. Commissioned in April, he was awarded the DFM (22.9.42). Sims was killed on January 13 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. The unit he was serving with is not known. He was 34 and is buried in Coney Hill Cemetery, Gloucester. PO 8.4.42 FO 8.10.42 FL 8.4.44

APO 9.3.36 PO 6.1.37 FO 6.7.38 FL 6.7.40 SL 1.9.41 WC 9.5.43 WC 1.10.46

JAMES AYSCOUGH SIMS 43944

LESLIE WILLIAM SIMPSON 76471

PO

Air Gunner

British

264 and 141 Squadrons

APO 10.12.39 PO 6.2.40 FO 20.1.41 FL 20.1.42

British

3 and 232 Squadrons

PO 25.4.40 FO 25.4.41 FL 25.4.42 FL 1.9.45

PETER JAMES SIMPSON Pilot

British

He was with 3 Squadron at Biggin Hill at the outbreak of war. Sims was commissioned in April 1940 and he was in ‘B’ Flight of 3 Squadron, when it went to France on May 10 1940. On May 12 he destroyed two Ju 87s near Louvain, on the 19th he destroyed a He111 and on the 20th he shared in the destruction of another two He 111s. On July 21 1940 ‘B’ Flight of 3 Squadron was renumbered as 232 Squadron, when it was reformed at Sumburgh. Sims served with 232 in the Battle of Britain. He was posted away to 2 CFS, Cranwell on December 27 1940, for a flying instructor’s course. Sims retired from the RAF on March 25 1959, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. He died in 1977..

He moved to 23 Squadron at Wittering on February 18. Simpson was detached to CGS, Warmwell from May 14 to June 7, for a Gunnery Leader course. He joined 264 Squadron at Duxford on July 12 1940 and moved on to 141 Squadron at Prestwick on the 31st. Simpson was posted away on September 7 1940 to be an Assistant Armament Officer at HQ 13 Group. Simpson was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant.

FO

Pilot

Born on October 2 1912, Sims joined the RAF in September 1928, as an Aircraft Apprentice (562604) and passed out in August 1931, as a Metal Rigger. He later applied for pilot training and was selected.

Simpson joined the RAFVR in December 1939, with a direct-entry commission as an Air Gunner. He went to 5 B&GS, Jurby on December 10 for an air gunnery course. With this completed, he joined 145 Squadron at Croydon on February 7 1940, then equipped with Blenheims.

41875

PO

111 and 64 Squadrons

GORDON LEONARD SINCLAIR Born in Hove on March 5 1921, Simpson was educated at Mayfield College. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on January 23 1939, as a pupil pilot.

39644

FL

Pilot

British

310 Squadron Sinclair was born in Eastbourne on August 15 1916, the son of an officer in the Inniskilling Dragoons. He was educated at Eastbourne College.

After completing his training, he arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on October 24. After converting to Hurricanes, Simpson joined 111 Squadron at Acklington on November 20 1939. Over Dunkirk on June 2 1940, Simpson probably destroyed a Bf 110. He destroyed a Bf 109 on July 19. He was detached to 64 Squadron at Kenley on August 9. Simpson claimed a Do 17 damaged on August 13 and a Bf 109 destroyed and a He 111 shared on the 16th. In this action his Spitfire, L 1068, was severely damaged by cannon fire. Simpson returned to 111 Squadron, then at Debden, on August 18. On this day he probably destroyed a Do 17, receiving such damage himself as to necessitate a forcedlanding on Woodcote Park golf course, Epsom Downs. He shared another Do 17 on August 26, damaged a He 111 on September 2, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 4th, damaged a Bf 109 on the 6th, damaged a He 111 on November 6 and shared in destroying a He 111 on the 13th. He was awarded the DFC (17.12.40). In May 1941 Simpson was posted away for a rest. He joined 66 Squadron at Portreath in December, as a Flight Commander. He commanded 130 Squadron from July 1942 to January 1943 and 504 Squadron from July to October 1943. Simpson was appointed Wing Leader at Hornchurch on December 18 1943, the last of a long line. The fighter squadrons were withdrawn in February 1944 so that Hornchurch could prepare for D Day. In June 1944 Simpson led the Portreath Wing over Normandy. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (29.8.44). In May 1945 he was commanding 58 OTU. In 1956 he led the Tangmere Hunter Wing to Cyprus, to take part in the Suez operation. Simpson retired on March 5 1968, as a Wing Commander, retaining the rank of Group Captain. He died on November 13 1987.

In February 1935 he enlisted in ‘A’ Battery of the Honourable Artillery Company, as a gunner. Sinclair went to work in the steel industry. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 1 1937, as a pupil pilot at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty. He was posted to 3 FTS, South Cerney on May 8 1937 and with training completed, he joined 19 Squadron at Duxford on November 27 1937. Sinclair made his first flight in a Spitfire on August 16 1938. The port undercarriage leg collapsed on landing and the aircraft flipped over on to its back. He was unhurt. He was still with 19 Squadron in 1940. Over Dunkirk on May 26, he destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another, on the 27th he probably destroyed a He 111 and a Do 17, on June 1 he destroyed two Bf 110s and on a later patrol the same day he claimed a He 111 damaged and a Do 17 destroyed. Sinclair flew a patrol over Dunkirk on June 4 and then fell sick soon afterwards. He did not return to 19 Squadron until July 3 1940. He was awarded the DFC (25.6.40). Sinclair was posted to Duxford, to be ‘A’ Flight Commander, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant, in 310 (Czech) Squadron, then about to be formed. It became operational on August 17. Sinclair claimed a Do 17 destroyed on August 31, on September 3 he destroyed a Do 17 and a Bf 110, on the 7th he damaged a Bf 110 and on the 9th he destroyed a Do 17. On this day he collided with Flying Officer J E Boulton and baled out, spraining his ankle, landing in a wood at Caterham. His Hurricane, R 4084, crashed off Purley Way, Wallington. Boulton was killed. On September 27 Sinclair was shot down by a Bf 109 in an engagement over Thanet. He baled out, unhurt, landing at Chilham. His Hurricane, V 6608, is believed to have crashed on Woodsdale Farm, Godmersham. He was awarded the Czech Military Cross (24.12.40).

APO 1.4.39 PO 23.10.39 FO 23.10.40 FL 23.10.41 SL 28.12.43 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.1.54

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

ANTONI SIUDAK

On December 6 1940 Sinclair was posted from 310 to RAF Duxford, as non-effective sick. He did not rejoin 310 but in January 1941 he went to HQ 12 Group, Hucknall, on staff duties. He was given the task of forming and then commanding 313 Squadron at Catterick in May 1941. He took command of 79 Squadron at Fairwood Common in September and led it until posted to Air Ministry in December, in the Directorate of Fighter operations. From March to September 1943 Sinclair was attached to various squadrons, awaiting reappointment. He was given command of 56 Squadron at Martlesham Heath in October 1943. Sinclair was promoted to Wing Commander in May 1944 and joined the staff at HQ 84 Group. In January 1945 he returned to Air Ministry, in the Directorate of Fighter Operations, and in October he was appointed Personal Air Secretary to the Secretary of State for Air, holding the post until November 1947. Sinclair retired from the RAF on December 23 1957 as a Wing Commander. He returned to work in the steel industry and at one stage he was President of the International Steel Trades Association. He was made OBE for services to the industry. Many years after the war Sinclair was made a member of the Order of King George of Podograd by the Czech Government, in recognition of his service with the Czech squadrons.

P 5128

Pilot

British

219 Squadron

Sinclair was born on November 13 1919. He joined the RAFVR in February 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745018).

WILFRED MAX SIZER 40758

Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 45 Course, which ran from December 11 1939 to June 10 1940. Sinclair was commissioned and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 22. After converting to Blenheims, Sinclair joined 219 Squadron at Catterick on July 7. He was still on 219 on November 26 1940. He retired from the RAF on August 4 1961 with the rank of Flight Lieutenant. He died on September 5 2001.

Pilot

British

Pilot

British

213 Squadron

He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 7 1938, as a pupil pilot. With his training completed, he joined 17 Squadron at Kenley in early 1939 and moved to 213 Squadron at Wittering on May 2 1939. On May 17 1940 ‘B’ Flight of 213 went across to support the squadrons in France. The pilots flew their Hurricanes and the ground crews flew over in an Ensign and a Bombay. The flight was attached to 79 Squadron at Merville. On the 19th Sizer shared in the destruction of two Hs 126s and damaged another and on the 20th he shared a Do 17. On this patrol Sizer was attacked by five Bf 109s and shot down. He landed two miles from La Panne, swam across a canal and was taken to a casualty clearing station, with facial wounds. He was taken back to England and later rejoined the squadron, which was withdrawn from France on May 21. Over Dunkirk on the 28th Sizer destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 31st shot down a Bf 109 and damaged another. He was himself shot down in this engagement, made a crash-landing S of Dunkirk and returned to England by ship. On August 11 1940 Sizer destroyed a Ju 88, on the 12th a Bf 110, on the 15th two Ju 87s and on October 5 he damaged a Ju 88. On the 23rd he was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander. He was awarded the DFC (8.11.40) and posted to 58 OTU at Grangemouth, as an instructor. He moved to 56 OTU at Sutton Bridge. In late April 1941 Sizer went to No 1 Squadron at Croydon, as a Flight Commander. He joined 91 Squadron at Hawkinge in June, moving soon afterwards to No 1 PRU. In August he went to 57 OTU, Hawarden, to instruct, and moved to 52 OTU at Aston Down in January 1942. Sizer joined 152 Squadron at Eglinton in April 1942, as a Flight Commander. On August 23 he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88. The squadron went to North Africa in November. Sizer damaged a Mc 202 on the 25th and damaged a Ju 88 on December 28. He was given command of 93 Squadron at Souk-el-Khemis in February 1943. He damaged a Ju 88 on July 10, damaged a Bf 109 on the 12th, destroyed a Mc 202, probably another and damaged four more on the 13th. Sizer was posted away in August 1943 and awarded a Bar to the DFC (28.9.43). He went to 71 OTU, Ismailia, as an instructor. Back in the UK, he did a course at the Empire Central Flying School and then returned to the Middle East, where he commanded 680 PRU at Deversoir. Sizer was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Wing Commander. He rejoined later and retired on February 23 1963, as a Squadron Leader, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. He died on December 22 2006. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in October 1940.

JOHN ERIC JAMES SING FL

FO

Born at Chelmsford on February 23 1920, Sizer was educated at the King Edward VI Grammar School there.

PO 22.6.40 FO 22.6.41 FL 22.6.42 FL 6.11.45

37429

Polish 302 and 303 Squadrons

He escaped to France after the fall of Poland and he joined l`Armée de l`Air in late 1939, serving in the Angers Fighter Flight, defending the temporary seat of the Polish Government in exile. After the fall of France, Siudak made his way to England and went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. He joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield on July 23 1940. Siudak went to Duxford with a 302 Squadron detachment on September 13 1940. He shared in the destruction of a Do 17 over South-East London on the 15th. Whilst at Duxford, Siudak was posted to 303 Squadron at Northolt on September 23 and did not return with the detachment to Leconfield on the 25th. He destroyed two Bf 109s and shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 on October 5. The next day a lone raider struck at Northolt just after mid-day. Siudak was killed when a bomb destroyed his Hurricane, P 3120, as he was taxying. He is buried in Northwood Cemetery, Middlesex and is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt. Siudak was awarded the VM (5th Class)(1.2.41).

JOHN SINCLAIR PO

Pilot

Born on April 1 1909, Siudak was in the Polish Air Force before the war, with the 1st Air Regiment. He later was an instructor at Deblin.

APO 3.5.37 PO 1.3.38 FO 1.10.39 FL 1.10.40 SL 1.12.41 SL 1.9.45 WC 1.1.51

81346

Sgt

213 Squadron Born in Bristol on October 21 1916, Sing was educated at St Paul’s School. He joined the RAF on a short service commission in October 1935. He was posted to 2 FTS, Digby on November 2.

With training completed, Sing joined 111 Squadron at Northolt in late 1936. On March 8 1937 he moved to 213 Squadron, also at Northolt, at its formation. Sing was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on December 3 1938 and promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on September 16 1939. When a 213 detachment went to France on May 17 1940, Sing was in hospital, having his appendix removed. He destroyed a Bf 109 on August 8 1940, two Bf 110s on the 12th, a Bf 109 on the 13th, two Bf 110s and a Ju 87 on the 15th and a Ju 88 over Newton Abbot on the 20th. During a combat over Selsey Bill on September 11, Sing damaged a Bf 110 but his own aircraft was damaged in a surprise attack and he baled out, unhurt. His Hurricane, P 3780, crashed into the sea. On the 15th he destroyed a Do 17, on the 25th he shared in damaging a Do 17 and on the 27th shared in the destruction of a Bf 110. Sing was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge for instructor duties on October 6 and was awarded the DFC (22.10.40). In October 1941 Sing reformed 153 Squadron at Ballyhalbert from ‘A’ Flight of 256, with Defiants. He left the squadron in March 1942, went to 501 Squadron at Ibsley in June 1942, as a supernumerary Squadron Leader and he took command of 152 Squadron at Wittering in September. Sing took the squadron to North Africa in November 1942 and on the 25th he damaged a FW 190. He led 152 until April 1943. After his return from North Africa he was posted to 56 OTU, Tealing, as Wing Commander, Training Wing. Sing retired from the RAF on October 23 1962 as a Wing Commander. He died on March 9 1996. APO 21.10.35 PO 21.10.36 FO 21.7.38 FL 21.7.40 SL 1.9.41 WC 13.12.43 SL 1.6.44 WC 1.1.52

APO 7.5.38 PO 7.3.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.1.44 SL 1.1.50

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

HENRYK SKALSKI P O156

FO

Pilot

Polish

In January 1947 Skalski returned to Poland and was given command of Fighter Command of the Polish Air Force. He was later imprisoned by the Russians and not released until October 1956. Skalski was later put in charge of aero clubs in Poland. He died on November 12 2004.

615 and 607 Squadrons

After arriving in England , Skalski went to to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. In early September 1940 he went to No 1 School of Army Cooperation, Old Sarum for the 6th Polish Pilots’ Course, for testing and grading.

PO 24.1.40 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.9.42 SL 1.9.43

VICTOR HALL SKILLEN 745460

Skalski arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on September 18. After converting to Hurricanes, he and five other Polish pilots joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick on October 4. Skalski flew his first operational sortie two days later, a patrol of the Clyde. He was posted to 607 Squadron at Tangmere on October 9, along with his five compatriots. Skalski moved to 46 Squadron at North Weald on December 2 1940 and then joined 249 Squadron, also at North Weald, on the 5th. He was also probably with 242 Squadron after 249. Skalski joined 306 Squadron at Ternhill on February 25 1941 and then moved to 72 Squadron at Acklington on March 3. No further sevice details traced.

PO

Pilot

Polish

Pilot

British

29 Squadron

Skillen, from Northern Ireland, joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He carried out his prewar training at 24 E&RFTS, Sydenham, Belfast. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 17 Course, from December 9 1939 to May 26 1940. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 27 and after converting to Blenheims, he was posted to 29 Squadron at Digby on June 16. Skillen was with 29 until December 26 1940, when he was posted to 23 Squadron at Ford. He was killed on March 11 1941, as a Sergeant with 23 Squadron. He was 24. He was the pilot of Blenheim lF L 1340, which collided with a He lll during an intruder sortie. He is buried in St Pierre Cemetery, Amiens, France. The other members of the crew, Sergeant R R J Nute (qv) and Sergeant F H Abbott are buried alongside him.

STANISLAW SKALSKI 76710

Sgt

302 and 501 Squadrons

Skalski was born in Kodyn, near Odessa, Russia on October 27 1915. He joined the PAF on January 1 1936 and after qualifying as a pilot, he joined 142 Eskadra, the Wild Ducks. In the September1939 fighting in Poland, Skalski landed beside a Hs 126 on the 1st and then collected maps and documents from it. On the 2nd he destroyed two Do 17s, on the 3rd he shared in destroying two Hs 126s and damaged a Do 17, on the 4th he destroyed a Ju 87 and damaged a Do 17.

CHARLES DAVID EVELYN SKINNER 90225

FL

Pilot

British

604 Squadron

Skinner, of West Byfleet, Surrey, was born on July 17 1916. He was at Cheltenham College from 1931 to 1934 and became an engineering apprentice at Simms Motor Units in 1935. He joined 604 Squadron, AAF in early 1938 and was commissioned in March.

After the fall of Poland, Skalski made his way to the Mediterranean and boarded a ship for England. Skalski was commissioned in the RAFVR in January 1940 at Eastchurch. On June 1 he went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool,

Called to full-time service on September 28 1939, Skinner was detached from 604 to AFDU, Northolt on February 5 1940, for a ten-day Air Fighting Course. He damaged a He 111 on June 19 1940. He served with 604 throughout the Battle of Britain. He became a Legionaire of the Legion of Merit (US)(9.10.45), as an Acting Wing Commander. He was released from the RAF in 1946 and went to work for Rotax Ltd. Skinner was later a director of Joseph Lucas Export Ltd. He rejoined the RAuxAF in 1947.

to await a posting. He was on the 1st Polish Pilots’ Course at No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum from July 5 to 13 1940, for testing and grading. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 14. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 302 Squadron at Leconfield on August 3. However, he was posted back to 3 S of TT on August 12, remained there until the 25th, when he was posted to 501 Squadron at Gravesend , and he joined it there on the 27th. Skalski claimed a He 111 destroyed and another damaged on the 30th, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 31st, damaged a Bf 110 on September 1, destroyed two Bf 109s on the 2nd and shot down a He 111 and two more Bf 109s on the 5th. On this day Skalski was shot down by Bf 109s in combat over Canterbury, in Hurricane V 6644. He was injured and admitted to Herne Bay Hospital. He rejoined his squadron on October 16 and was operational again on the 25th. On November 8 he shared in the destruction of a Bf 109. Awarded the VM (5th Class) (1.2.41), he was posted to 306 Squadron at Tern Hill on February 25 1941. Skalski destroyed Bf 109s on July 24 and August 19 and 21. He was appointed a Flight Commander on August 15, awarded the KW and Bar (10.9.41) and destroyed two more Bf 109s on September 17. In October Skalski was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as an instructor. He was awarded two more Bars to the KW (30.10.41) and the DFC (19.2.42). On March 1 1942 Skalski joined 316 Squadron at Northolt, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. He destroyed a FW 190 on April 10, damaged a Bf 109 on the 25th and probably destroyed a FW 190 on May 3. He was given command of 317 Squadron, also at Northolt, on June 11 1942. Skalski was awarded a Bar to the DFC (15.11.42) and posted away on November 2 to 58 OTU, Balado Bridge, as CFI. Skalski went to West Kirby on February 13 1943, to prepare for overseas and on March 13 arrived in the Middle East in a C47, with other Polish pilots, to form the Polish Fighting Team, otherwise known as Skalski’s Circus. They were attached to 145 Squadron and operated in the Western Desert from March 17. On the 28th Skalski destroyed a Ju 88, on April 2 and 4 he destroyed Bf 109s and on the 6th damaged another. The Team, led by Skalski, operated until May 12 and by that time had destroyed thirty enemy aircraft. In mid-July 1943 Skalski took command of 601 Squadron at Luqa, Malta. Shortly afterwards the squadron moved to Sicily. Skalski left 601 in early October, to return to the UK. He was awarded a second Bar to the DFC (20.10.43) and appointed Wing Leader of 131 Wing at Northolt on December 13. Skalski moved to lead 133 Wing on April 11 1944, with three Polish Mustang squadrons. He destroyed two Bf 109s on June 24. Skalski was posted away from the Wing on July 12, was awarded the VM (4th Class)(25.9.44) and went on a course to the Command and General Staff School at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas on October 4. He returned to the UK in late January 1945 and was posted to HQ 11 Group, as Wing Commander Ops. He was awarded the DSO (26.5.45).

PO (AAF) 28.3.38 FO 28.9.39 FL 28.9.40 SL 1.12.41 FO (RAuxAF) 29.12.47

STANLEY HEWITT SKINNER 90210

FL

Pilot

British

604 Squadron

Skinner joined 604 Squadron, AAF in 1934 and was commissioned. He was called to full-time service on August 25 1939 and was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on March 28 1940. He served with 604 throughout the Battle of Britain. On August 19 1942 Skinner was killed whilst acting as an observer with naval forces during the Dieppe raid, as an Acting Wing Commander. He was 30 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 64. PO (AAF) 24.7.34 FO (AAF) 16.3.36 FO 25.8.39 FL 12.3.40 SL 1.6.41

WILFRED MALCOLM SKINNER 68722

Sgt

Pilot

British

74 Squadron

Skinner was born in Gloucester, the son of an ex-RFC pilot. He was educated at the Merchant Taylors’ School and worked for the Midland Bank before the war. He joined the RAFVR about April 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740078). He reached the training standard required to be recommended for a full-time training period with the regular RAF. On June 10 1939 Skinner went from 5 E&RFTS, Hanworth to 74 Squadron at Hornchurch. After the outbreak of war, he remained with the squadron. Over Dunkirk on May 24, Skinner shot down a Ju 88 and damaged a He 111 and on the 27th he destroyed a Do 17. He shared a He 111 on July 8, probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

During the patrol the nine Defiants were surprised by a force of Bf 109s of III/JG 51 and in less than a minute four were shot down. Slatter was flying with Pilot Officer J R Gard’ner, in Defiant L 7016. Theirs was one of the four rear aircraft immediately shot down. Unlike the other three victims, their aircraft did not catch fire and Gard’ner landed on the sea four miles off Dover. The Defiant sank, the pilot managed to extricate himself but Slatter was not seen again. He was 26 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 10.

31st, probably shot down a Bf 110, shared two others and damaged another on August 11 and destroyed two Do 17s on the 13th. During a routine patrol on August 30, Skinner collided with Pilot Officer E W G Churches and baled out, unhurt. His Spitfire, X 4022, crashed and burned out. On November 2 Skinner destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 14th two Ju 87s. He was awarded the DFM (21.12.40). In March 1941 he was posted to 59 OTU, Crosby-on-Eden, as an instructor. He was commissioned in May and posted to 53 OTU, Llandow. He rejoined 74 Squadron, then at Rochford, on June 10 1941. Skinner was shot down on July 6 1941, during a Roadstead operation to attack shipping near Gravelines. He was later reported to be a PoW. He was at some time in Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 1623). Skinner was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He later rejoined the RAFVR. He died on June 26 2003.

PO 3.7.40

JAMES WALLACE SLEIGH

PO 17.5.41 PO 17.5.42 FL 17.5.43 FO (RAFVR) 21.10.47

Lieutenant (FAA)

Pilot

HENRYK SKOWRON 781283

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

He carried out his elementary flying training at 24 E&RFTS, Sydenham, Northern Ireland. He moved on to No 1 FTS, Leuchars for No 6 Course, from November 6 1939 to April 21 1940. Sleigh joined 804 Squadron at Hatston on June 11 1940, flying Sea Gladiators on dockyard defence. The squadron served under Fighter Command for a period during the Battle of Britain. On November 17 1940 Sleigh crashed at Skeabrae, when landing from an operational patrol in a Martlet. He suffered a fractured skull. In early 1941 Sleigh joined 802 Squadron, then forming at Donibristle for HMS Audacity. He was still with 802 on September 6 1941, when he and Lieutenant H E Williams were attached to HMS Victorious for the delivery of 151 Wing and its Hurricanes to Northern Russia. On the return journey a strike was made on targets in Northern Norway. In this operation, on September 13, the two pilots shared in the destruction of a He 111 and damaged another. On return to the UK they rejoined 802, then on HMS Audacity. Sleigh was with the carrier on her fourth, and last, convoy escort, HG 76 from Gibraltar. On December 19 1941 he attacked a Kondor, making several stern attacks, with no apparent effect. He then made a close head-on attack and the enemy aircraft went down, out of control. Sleigh pulled his Martlet up, to avoid a collision, and was struck by the Kondor’s port wing tip. He landed back on the carrier with debris dangling from his tail wheel. Two days later, on the 21st, Audacity was torpedoed and sunk by U 751, NE of the Azores. Sleigh was among the survivors. He was awarded the DSC (10.3.42), for actions from the carrier. From June 15 1942 he formed and then commanded 890 Squadron, serving in HMS Charger, Battler, Argus and Illustrious. He took part in the invasion of Siciy and the landings at Salerno, operating from HMS Illustrious, for which he received a Mention in Despatches (1.2.44). On November 8 1943 Sleigh was appointed Wing Leader of 15 Naval Fighter Wing and he led the Wing in attacks on the Tirpitz in Altenfjord on April 3 1944. For this action Sleigh was awarded the DSO (30.5.44). He was made an OBE (6.11.53) for services on HMS Glory during the war in Korea. Sleigh retired on January 29 1958 as a Commander. He later returned to live in South Africa. He farmed in the wine district near Stellenbosch and later joined the hydrographic staff attached to the South African Navy, retiring in 1981. He died on March 7 2005 after a long illness.

He went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum for the 7th Polish Pilots’ Course from September 23 to October 1 1940, for testing and grading. Skowron arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on October 2. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 151 Squadron at Digby on the 19th. He made only one flight with 151, local flying on the 20th. Next day he joined 303 Squadron at Leconfield. He made his first flight with 303 on the 25th, combat practise, and flew his first operational sortie on October 30, a patrol with ‘A’ Flight. Skowron was detached to 56 OTU, Sutton Bridge on November 8 1940, for completion of training. His date of rejoining 303 is not known. He rejoined 151 Squadron, then at Wittering, on February 1 1941 and he went to 10 B&GS, Dumfries on April 8, as a staff pilot. Skowron was killed on July 18 1941, whilst target-towing. His Battle, L 5775, crashed at Blackshaw Bank, Solway Firth. He is buried in St Andrew’s Catholic Cemetery, Dumfries.

JOHN WILLIAM SLADE Sgt

Pilot

British

804 Squadron

Sleigh was born in South Africa on September 27 1916. At the age of 15 he joined the South African naval training ship, General Botha. He entered the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on March 14 1938, as a probationary SubLieutenant.

303 Squadron

Skowron was born on May 26 1916. He was enlisted in the RAFVR on March 12 1940 at RAF Eastchurch. On June 1 he was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. He was at the RAF Polish Depot from August 26.

101518

British

64 Squadron

Slade, of Weston-super-Mare, joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748738). Called up on September 1, he completed his training, converted to Spitfires at 7 OTU, Hawarden and then joined 64 Squadron at Leconfield on September 24 1940. He flew his first operational sortie on the 27th. Commissioned in July 1941, Slade apparently joined 603 Squadron early in 1942. On April 20 1942 he was one of the 603 pilots who flew off the carrier USS Wasp to land at Ta Kali, Malta. On April 28 Slade damaged a Bf 109, on May 5 he destroyed a Ju 87, on the 6th he damaged a Ju 88, on the 9th he damaged a Bf 109 and on June 23 he damaged two more Bf 109s. On July 6 1942 Slade joined 126 Squadron at Luqa, as a Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. On July 10 he destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 24th he damaged a Ju 88. He was awarded the DFC (22.1.43), as an Acting Flight Lieutenant with 126 Squadron. In early 1943 Slade took command of the Gibraltar Defence Flight. In Spring 1944 the unit moved to Reghaia in Sardinia and was designated ‘C’ Flight of 256 Squadron. Slade commanded 94 Squadron in Greece from November 1944 until it was disbanded at Sedes on April 26 1945. He then went to 337 Wing, also in Greece. Slade was killed on September 19 1945, as a Squadron Leader with 337 Wing. He was 28 and he is buried in Phaleron War Cemetery, Athens.

Sub-Lt 14.3.38 Lt 14.3.40 Lt-Cdr 14.3.48 Cdr 31.12.50 PO 17.7.41 FO 17.7.42 FL 17.7.43

VACLAV SLOUF DUDLEY MALINS SLATTER 44597

PO

Air Gunner

British

112547

Sgt Pilot

Czechoslovakian

312 Squadron

141 Squadron Slouf was born on October 8 1911 in Dvorec u Nepomuku, Czechoslovakia.

Slatter, of Southsea, was born on March 7 1914 and joined the RAF in September 1935, as an Aircrafthand (524342). After the outbreak of war, he remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner, completed his training and was a Sergeant with 141 Squadron in June 1940.

Whilst training as a motor mechanic he joined a flying club, in Pizen-Bory, where he obtained his pilot’s licence. He joined the Military Aviation Academy, at Prostejov, where he was a cadet from 1929 to 1931.. For his military service he was assigned to the 9th Observation Squadron of the 3rd Air Regiment on July 28 1931, based at Pestany, Slovakia. He qualified as a military pilot on May 1 1931 and was promoted to LAC on May 1 1932 with a further promotion to Corporal on June 30. For disciplinary reasons he was transferred from the Czech Air Force to the Army on October 31 1932. Initially he was in

Slatter was commissioned on July 3. With no operational experience, the squadron flew south to West Malling on July 12. Shortly after 09.00 hrs on the 19th twelve Defiants moved to the forward airfield at Hawkinge. At 12.23 hrs they were ordered off, to carry out an offensive patrol twenty miles S of Folkestone. Three were left behind with engine trouble.

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the 3rd Company of the 17th Regiment at Trencin and later the 5th Company of the |Regiment. Slouf left the Army on November 24 1934 and became a flying instructor at the Pizen-Bory flying club. In this capacity he was actively involved with the “1000 pilots for the Republic” military pilot training scheme, instigated by the Government which was concerned about the growing threat from Nazi Germany. On March 31 1937 he re-joined the Czech Air Force and was assigned to the 16th Observation Sqn of the 3rd Air Regiment, at Tri Duby, Slovakia and equipped with Letov S328 reconnaissance aircraft. When the Germans took over the country on March 15 1939 the Czechoslovak Air Force was disbanded and he was demobilised on the 17th. Slouf escaped to Poland and reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate, in Krakow. He travelled by train to Gdynia and boarded the Kastelholm on July 31 1939 bound for Calais, France. On arrival in France, Czech airmen were required to join the French Foreign Legion for a five year period with the agreement that, should war be declared, they would be transferred to French military units. Slouf was placed at the Legion training base at Sidi-bel-Abbes, Algeria but war was declared and he was transferred to l’Armee de l’Air at Dugny, near Paris and, on October 11, with the rank of Sergeant, he was assigned to the CIC Chartres for retraining on French equipment. He completed training on December 1 1939 and was posted to Groupe de Chasse III/3, equipped with MS-406C fighters. In May 1940 the unit was re-equipped with Dw-520 aircraft. On May 11 Slouf shared in the destruction of a Bf 109, on the 13th shared in the probable destruction of a Hs 126. On the 19th he shared in the destruction of a He 111 and a Do 17. Following the action against the He 111 his Morane-Saulnier MS 406 was hit by fire from a Do 17 and set alight. Slouf baled out and landed near the airbase. He returned to the airbase and resumed operational flying resulting in the shared victory against the Do 17 in the afternoon. With the rapid advance of the German forces, GCIII/3 was constantly retreating south through France. By June 16 it was at La Salanque airbase, near Perpignan from where it was forced to fly to Maison Blanche, Algeria. The Czechoslovak airmen of the unit were released from French service and they travelled, by train, to Casablanca where they boarded the Royal Scotsman on July 9 1940, bound for Gibraltar. Here, they transferred to the David Livingstone which took them to Cardiff where they arrived on August 5. Slouf went to the Czechoslovak transit camp at Cholmondeley and, on August 14, he joined the RAFVR (787706) as a Sergeant. He was transferred to the RAF Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford. He was posted from there to join 312 Squadron at Duxford on September 9 and converted to Hurricanes. On September 26, 312 Squadron transferred to Speke. The squadron was declared operational on October 2. Slouf made his first operational flight of the Battle of Britain on October 21. Slouf completed his first operational tour on August 28 1942 and then went as an instructor to 53 OTU based initially at Heston, then at Llandow and Rhoose. Slouf returned to operational flying after only two months, rejoining 312 Squadron. On November 7 Slouf ’s aircraft was mistaken for a hostile and was fired on by airgunners from a US Liberator which the Squadron was escorting to Brest. The fire damaged his aircraft but he managed to get back to Exeter. He completed his second operational tour on February 1 1943 and was posted to the Czechoslovak Inspectorate General (CIG) in London. He returned to 312 Squadron on July 1 and was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander. The Squadron was then based at Skaebrae, Orkney. Upon completion of this tour on February 1 1944, Slouf returned to CIG. On May 22 he was posted to 313 Squadron to start another operational tour. The squadron was based at Appledram, Sussex. He remained with 313 until September 30 when he was posted back to 312 Squadron, On October 1 he was appointed Commander of ‘A’ Flight and on November 15 he took command of the Squadron. He remained with 312 Squadron until the end of the war. He was released from the RAF, as a Squadron Leader, and returned to Czechoslovakia on August 16 1945. He remained in the Czechoslovak Air Force and was posted to the 12th Air Regiment, at Prague-Kbely airbase. Slouf was demobilised on January 23 1946 and joined CSA, the national airline, as a pilot, flying DC3 aircraft. Following the communist takeover, in February 1948, Czech personnel with wartime RAF service were regarded as tainted. Slouf was tipped off that he was going to be arrested. On May 5 he flew his CSA scheduled flight to Zurich. After landing the aircraft, he disembarked, refused to fly the aircraft back and left the terminal. He returned to England and re-joined the RAF on September 13 1948, initially in the rank of AC2, for a five year term. Shortly after he was promoted to Flying Officer and posted to RAF Cardington as a flying instructor. He retired from the RAF on March 7 1954, as a Squadron Leader, In civilian life he worked for the British Cellophane Company. Slouf died on April 13 1976.

OSWALD KENNETH SLY 759093

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

29 Squadron

Sly, of Weston-super-Mare, joined the RAFVR in August 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at No 1 AAS, Jurby. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 3 1940 and after further training on Blenheims, he joined 29 Squadron at Digby on August 7. Sly was a member of the crew of a Blenheim shot down in error by Hurricanes of 312 Squadron on October 13 1940. The aircraft, L 6637, crashed in flames off the Point of Ayr, near the Morecambe Light. All three men on board were lost, Sly, Sergeant R E Stevens, pilot, and AC 2 A Jackson, radar operator. Sly was 20. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 23.

JAMES SMALLMAN 627873

AC 2

Radar Operator

British

236 and 23 Sqdns

Born on August 3 1919, Smallman joined the RAF in November 1938, as an Aircrafthand. At the outbreak of war he was on an electrician’s course. In October 1939 he was posted to Martlesham Heath for an Airborne Interception radar course. Smallman joined 604 Squadron at Northolt in December and moved to 600 Squadron at Manston in February 1940. He returned to Martlesham Heath in late May for further AI training. In late June Smallman joined 236 Squadron at Middle Wallop, moving later to Thorney Island. He was posted away to 23 Squadron at Wittering in early September, moving to Ford on the 12th. He flew his first operational sortie with 23 on September 20. On December 6 1940 Smallman made his final flight with 23. With other radar operators, he was posted away in early 1941. In mid-1942 Smallman went on a course for motor boat crew and spent the rest of his service in marine craft and ASR launches, including a tour in West Africa. Smallman was released from the RAF in February 1946.

THOMAS SMART 40324

FO

Pilot

British

65 Squadron

Smart was born in Broughton-in-Furness in 1919 and educated at the Birkenhead Institute. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on September 27 1937. He was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on December 11 and after completing his training, he joined the staff at No 1 Air Armament School, Manby. Smart was posted from there on September 4 1939 and joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch. Over France on May 22 he shared in the destruction of a Ju 88, on the 24th shared a Hs 126, over Calais on the 26th he destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 27th he probably destroyed two Do 17s. On June 25 he probably destroyed two Bf 109s over Abbeville. He probably destroyed two Bf 109s on August 12, destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another on the 13th and destroyed a Do 17 and probably another on the 26th. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on October 30 1940. Smart destroyed a bomber at night on January 10 1941. He was awarded the DFC (4.2.41), and destroyed a Bf 109 on July 8. He was posted away from 65 in October, to be an instructor at 58 OTU but in November 1941 he was posted to 73 OTU, Abu Sueir, as a Flight Lieutenant. He was given command of 229 Squadron at Ta Kali, Malta in November 1942 and led it until he was killed on April 12 1943. Smart is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 6, Column 1. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (18.9.45), with effect from April 11 1943. APO 28.11.37 PO 27.9.38 FO 27.6.40 FL 27.6.41

ALEXANDER SMITH 1050686

AC

Radar Operator

British

600 Squadron

Smith joined the RAFVR about June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. He volunteered for aircrew duties and probably did a short radar course before joining 600 Squadron at Manston in July/August 1940.

PO 26.11.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 10.42 SL 11.44

He was one of the crew of a Blenheim, which became lost following R/T failure during

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Smith held a series of appointments at home and overseas in the post-war RAF, including at the British High Commission in Delhi, with the British Delegation to the United Nations in New York, during the Korean War and the embassy in Budapest. He was also Deputy OC at RAF Acklington. He retired on January 1 1961, as a Wing Commander, retaining the rank of Group Captain. He then worked for the Scottish Office and was concerned with the development of rural businesses. He was a Deputy Lieutenant for Morayshire. Smith, who died on January 19 2014, changed his name to Montagu-Smith after the Second World War.

a night patrol in the evening of September 8 1940. The crew of three baled out over Basingstoke when the petrol was exhausted, Smith, Pilot Officer H B L Hough, pilot, and Sergeant E C Barnard, air gunner. The aircraft L 1111, crashed near Odiham. Smith was first recorded in the squadron ORB as a Sergeant on November 14 1940. He was killed on August 22 1941, still with 600. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 52.

ANDREW THOMAS SMITH 90337

FL

Pilot

British

610 Squadron APO 15.3.35 WC 1.7.47

Smith, of Fulwood Park, Liverpool, was born in 1906. He was at Oundle School from 1921 to 1924, when he left to go to St Catharine’s College, Cambridge. He worked as a manager for a flour-milling company.

PO 15.3.36

FO 15.10.37

FL 15.10.39

SL 1.12 .40

WC 1.3.42

ARTHUR WILLIAM SMITH 41073

In April 1936 Smith joined 610 Squadron, AAF and was commissioned. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939. He was then a Flight Commander, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. Over Dunkirk on May 27 1940, Smith destroyed a Bf 110 and probably another. When the CO was killed on May 29 Smith took command of 610, as an Acting Squadron Leader. On July 10 Smith crashed on landing at Hawkinge, after his aircraft was damaged in combat over Dover. He was killed on July 25 1940, when he stalled, attempting to land at Hawkinge after an action with Bf 109s over the Channel. His Spitfire, R 6693, crashed and burned out in a disused engine-testing shed. Smith is buried in St Peter’s churchyard, Delamere, Cheshire.

FO

Pilot

Canadian

141 Squadron

Born in Southport, Florida, Smith was brought up in Summerland, British Columbia. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 27 1938. With training completed, Smith was posted to 8 Air Observer School at Evanton, as a staff pilot. He joined 141 Squadron at Turnhouse on October 7 1939, where it had just been reformed. He served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. He joined 242 Squadron at Duxford on November 4 1940. Patrolling over Clacton on March 28 1941, Smith’s turbo charger cut out. He spun in at Bradfield St George and was killed. Smith was 26. He is buried in Ipswich Cemetery, Suffolk. APO 20.8.38 PO 27.6.39 FO 3.9.40

PO (AAF) 9.4.36 FO (AAF) 9.10.37 FO 24.8.39 FL 9.10.39

CHRISTOPHER DERMONT SALMOND SMITH ARTHUR DUMBELL SMITH 580153

Sgt

Pilot

British

33287

ARTHUR MONTAGU SMITH Pilot

British

British

25 Squadron

Smith went to A&AEE, Martlesham Heath on June 1 1938, and at some time he worked on the development of airborne radar. In early 1940 Smith was with the Special Duties Flight, with which he flew operationally, being awarded the DFC (7.5.40). On May 12 1940 he was flying an early morning sortie in a Blenheim of the SD Flight. He destroyed a He 111 thirty miles off the Dutch coast, the first ever radar-guided victory. His radar operator was AC A Newton. He joined 25 Squadron at North Weald on September 20 1940, as a Flight Commander. On January 16 1941 Smith damaged a Do 17 near Stowmarket, Suffolk, in Beaufighter R 2158, with Sergeant C A Johnson as his radar operator. In November 1941 Smith took command of 79 Squadron at Fairwood Common. He was killed on December 22 1941, when he collided with a He 115 over the Irish Sea. Both aircraft crashed into the sea. Smith was 25. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 28.

Nothing is known of his pre-war postings but he was with 66 Squadron at Coltishall by June 1 1940. On the 2nd he destroyed a Bf 109 over Dunkirk. On July 24 Smith crashed into the sea during a routine patrol in Spitfire N 3041, cause unknown, unhurt. On August 30 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17. He was shot down in combat over Ashford on September 4 and baled out, seriously wounded. He was admitted to No 7 Casualty Clearing Station, Benenden and died of his wounds on the 6th. His Spitfire, N 3048, crashed near Mersham. Smith was 22. He is buried in St Luke’s churchyard, Whyteleafe, Surrey.

FL

Pilot

Smith of Overy Staithe, Norfolk, was born in September 1916 at Bruton, Somerset and educated at Bradfield College. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1934, as a Flight Cadet. After graduating on July 31 1936, with a Permanent Commission, he was posted to the School of Air Navigation, Manston, for a course. He joined 220 (GR) Squadron at Bircham Newton on November 29 1936.

Smith joined the RAF as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot and began his ab initio course on January 6 1936. He was accepted and formally enlisted in the RAF on March 2 1936, as an Airman u/t Pilot.

37128

FL

66 Squadron

264 Squadron PO 1.8.36 FO 1.2.38 FL 1.2.40 SL 1.3.41

Born on July 17 1915, Smith grew up in Croydon and attended Whitgift School. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course in January 1935. He was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on March 30 and with training completed, he joined 99 Squadron at Mildenhall on February 29 1936.

DENIS NORMAN EVELYN SMITH 79524

PO

Pilot

British

74 Squadron

An ex-transport pilot, Smith served as a pilot in the Spanish Republican Air Force in 1937. He joined the RAFVR with a direct-entry commission on June 1 1940. He went to 24 (Communications) Squadron at Hendon, for an assessment of his flying capabilities. The squadron had transport and other aircraft, the latter for use of officers at Air Ministry to keep in flying practice.

The squadron was the first to receive Wellingtons and Smith flew on 99’s first sortie to the German coast in October 1939, in search of enemy naval units. In November he was posted to the Special Duty Flight at the A&AEE, Boscombe Down. Smith went to CGS, Warmwell on April 2 1940, as a Flight Commander. He joined 264 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on September 11 1940, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. In December 1940 Smith was promoted to Squadron Leader and joined 221 Squadron at Birchham Newton, as a Flight Commander. He carried out the first Coastal Command Wellington attack on a German U-boat in the Atlantic in May 1941. Smith went to a staff job at HQ 18 Group in October 1941. A year later he took command of 248 Squadron at Talbenny, operating in Beaufighters on long-range fighter patrols between the UK and Gibraltar. Before he was posted away in August 1943 to HQ 19 Group, 248 had destroyed twentyfive enemy aircraft. In February 1944 Smith joined the RAF Delegation in Washington, as Deputy Director RAF Operational Training USA. He returned to the UK and in July 1945 he was made OC 104 Wing in France, with Mosquitos.

Smith arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 22 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on July 20 1940. He failed to return from combat with Bf 110s over convoy Booty thirty miles E of Harwich on August 11. Smith crashed into the sea in Spitfire R 6962 and was killed. In the action over Dover, Smith was credited with probably destroying a Bf 109. He was 24 years old and is buried in Ostende New Communal Cemetery, Belgium. PO 1.6.40

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DONALD SYDNEY SMITH

ERIC CLAUD SMITH

40859

197580

FO

Pilot

British

616 Squadron

British

On August 9 1940 Smith was gunner in a Blenheim, which developed engine failure during night operations off Margate. He and the pilot, Flying Officer S P le Rougetel, baled out. Smith swam ashore at Westgate. The aircraft, L 8679, crashed nearby. Le Rougetel was picked up by the Margate lifeboat. Smith was posted to the newly-formed 256 Squadron at Catterick on December 16 1940, for night-fighter operations on Defiants. On October 22 1941 Smith shot down a Ju 88. He was then a Flight Sergeant. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in April 1945, he stayed on in the RAF and retired on June 3 1966 as a Flight Lieutenant. Smith later settled in Australia. He died in 1992. PO 27.4.45 FO 27.10.45 FO 28.4.48 FL 4.6.53

ERIC LEIGH SMITH 77346

610 Squadron

604 Squadron

FORGRAVE MARSHALL SMITH 37613

FL

Pilot

Canadian

72 Squadron

Born in Edmonton, Alberta on August 17 1913, Smith learned to fly at the Edmonton Aero Club. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on January 6 1936. Smith was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham on March 14 and after completing his training, he joined 72 Squadron at Church Fenton on March 22 1937. Smith was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on March 5 1939. He was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander on September 1 1939. Still with the squadron in 1940, Smith shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on June 29. He destroyed two Ju 88s on August 15 and was himself shot down on the 31st, during a combat over Dungeness. He baled out, wounded and badly burned. His Spitfire, P 9438, crashed near New Romney. After three months in hospital, Smith returned to 72, then at Coltishall on November 28 1940. He was promoted and posted to command 603 Squadron at Turnhouse on April 1 1941. He damaged a Bf 109 on June 14. Smith left the squadron on July 27 and on August 14 went to 52 OTU, Debden, as CFI. Smith formed and briefly commanded 175 Squadron at Warmwell from March 3 1942 until he was posted to India, as CFI at Risalpur. After a course at RAF Staff College, Haifa he returned to India and became Wing Commander Ops at Air HQ, New Delhi. Smith returned to the UK for a course at the Fighter Leaders’ School and again returned to India, this time to command 902 Wing. He was detached from the Wing to be Joint Assault Commander for the invasion of Ramree Island, on the Arakan coast. In May 1945 Smith was detached for the invasion of Rangoon, with the task of establishing an airfield. He remained with 902 Wing until late 1945. He was awarded the DFC (30.10.45). Smith retired from the RAF on October 13 1957 as a Wing Commander. He died in 1994.

EDWARD STANLEY SMITH British

British

PO 4.2.40 FO 4.2.41 FL 4.2.42

PO (AAF) 22.9.36 FO (AAF) 22.3.38 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

Pilot

Air Gunner

He joined 604 Squadron from 601 on February 18 1940. Smith was detached to CGS, Warmwell from July 15 to August 10, for a Gunnery Leader course and detached to RAF Catterick from December 4 to 11. Smith was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on November 5 1978.

Over Dunkirk on May 27 1940, he shared in the destruction of a He 111. On the 29th he was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander and on June 1 he was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant. On July 3 Smith shared in damaging a Do 17, on the 9th he destroyed a Do 17 , on the 24th he destroyed a Bf 109, probably another and damaged a third, on the 25th he destroyed a Bf 109, on the 29th he damaged a Do 17 and on August 11 he damaged a He 59 off Calais. On the 12th Smith was shot down in flames in a combat near New Romney in Spitfire K 9818. He baled out, was rescued from the sea and admitted to Dover Hospital, with burns. Smith was awarded the DFC (30.8.40), credited with the destruction of six enemy aircraft. He rejoined the squadron on September 10 1940 but did not resume duties as OC ‘A’ Flight. He was posted away on December 9 1940 to 2 CFS, Cranwell, as an instructor. In 1941/2 Smith served at 12, 17, 19 and 24 EFTSs and 10 FS, Reading. In March 1942 he was at the FTC Instructor’s School. Smith was posted to HQ TAF, BNAF in June and in August was attached to the Tactical Bomber Force. He commanded the AFU at Setif, Algeria in December 1943 and moved later to Naples. In 1944 he commanded a parachute school in Sicily and later was with the Balkan Air Force at Bari. Smith was released from the RAF in 1946 as Squadron Leader. He died on September 15 2013.

FL

PO

Smith joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (755105). Called up on September 1, he completed his training, was commissioned on February 4 1940 and posted to 601 Squadron at Tangmere.

Smith was born in Formby, Lancashire on January 12 1915. He joined 610 Squadron AAF in 1936. He was called to fulltime service on August 24 1939.

90093

600 Squadron

Smith joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on April 4 1938, as a pupil pilot. After completing his training, he may have served with the FAA. By September 3 1939 Smith was on ‘D’ Flight of 2 AACU at Eastchurch. He was posted from there to 616 Squadron at Doncaster on September 22. Over Dunkirk on June 1, Smith damaged a Ju 88. Soon after midnight on June 26, he destroyed a He 111 off Withernsea, one of the very few night victories credited to a

EDWARD BRIAN BRETHERTON SMITH Pilot

British

Smith was born on February 16 1920. He joined 600 Squadron, AAF at Hendon on November 5 1938, as an Aircrafthand (800636). He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939, remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and with training completed, he rejoined 600 Squadron.

APO 4.6.38 PO 4.4.39 FO 3.9.40

FL

Air Gunner

Smith, of Highley, Shropshire, was educated at Bridgnorth Grammar School and later Winchester College. He became a geography master at Droxford School and later Highley School, where his father was headmaster.

Spitfire. During a night-flying practice on August 7, Smith’s Spitfire R 6696, crashed and exploded three miles from Leconfield. He is believed to have baled out, unhurt. On the 15th Smith shared in the destruction of a Ju 88 and on the 30th he destroyed a Bf 109. On September 27 Smith was shot down by Bf 109s, whilst acting as a weaver. It is believed that he crashed in Spitfire R 6702 at Workhouse Cottage, Throwley, near Faversham, seriously wounded. Smith was admitted to Faversham Cottage Hospital, where he died the next day. He was 26 years old and he is buried in St Mary’s churchyard, Highley.

90340

Sgt

600 Squadron

Smith was educated at Sherborne School and Clare College, Cambridge, reading Law. He learned to fly with the University Air Squadron and in 1936 he joined 600 Squadron, AAF and was commissioned in July.

APO 2.3.36 PO 6.1.37 FO 6.8.38 FL 6.8.40 SL 1.9.41 WC 1.1.44 WC 1.10.46

FRANCIS ALAN SMITH

Called to full-time service on August 25 1939, Smith served with the squadron in the Battle of Britain. He was posted away on October 7 1940, destination unknown but by January 31 1941 he was on the AFDU. Smith was awarded the AFC (2.6.43). He commanded 264 Squadron from April 1944 to June 1945. He was awarded the DFC (2.10.45) and he was released from the RAF in 1945, as an Acting Wing Commander. He died in 1970.

Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

Pilot

British

145 Squadron

Born on June 24 1920 at Barrow-in-Furness, Smith was educated at the Sacred Heart Convent there and after the family moved to Stowmarket, he went to the County Grammar School. After leaving, he was a trainee with the Eastern Electricity Co. Smith entered the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on July 1 1939, rated as a Midshipman (A). He trained at HMS Frobisher and St Vincent and on October 9 went to 14 EFTS, Castle

PO (AAF) 10.7.36 FO (AAF) 10.1.38 FO 25.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

He sailed in the RMS Rangitiki on July 27 and arrived on September 11 1939. Smith went to ITW, at Jesus College, Oxford immediately, for lectures and ground studies. He was posted to 10 EFTS, Yatesbury on September 21 and moved to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on March 24 1940. On this day Smith relinquished his RNZAF commission and was granted one in the RAF, as an Acting Pilot Officer. He completed the course on July 11 and two days later was posted direct to 151 Squadron at North Weald. Smith was attached to the North Weald Training Flight from July 15 to August 1, for further training, after which he became operational and he made his first sortie on August 2, a flight to Rochford for readiness. On August 15 he claimed two Bf 109s destroyed and a third damaged, on the 24th a He 111 destroyed, on the 30th he shared a Bf 109, on the 31st he destroyed a Do 17 and damaged another and on October 2 he destroyed a He 111, which ditched just off the beach at Chapel St Leonards, ten miles N of Skegness. 151 Squadron went over to night-fighting in November 1940 and began to convert to Defiants in December but still retained some Hurricanes. These made up ‘C’ Flight, which Smith commanded. He was awarded the DFC (7.3.41) and he destroyed a He 111 at night on May 10 1941. ‘C’ Flight was merged with ‘B’ in July and Smith took command of the combined flight, equipped solely with Defiants. On February 19 1942 Smith took command of 151 Squadron. At dusk the same day, on a convoy patrol, he shot down a Do 217 and damaged a Ju 88. The squadron began to receive Mosquitos in April 1942 and Smith, then an Acting Wing Commander, gained 151’s first victories with the aircraft on June 24, destroying a Do 217, a He 111 and damaging another. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (16.7.42). Smith was posted away for staff duties at HQ Fighter Command in March 1943. He asked to return to operations and was posted to command 488 Squadron but this was over-ridden by Basil Embry, who wanted him at HQ 2 Group. In September 1943 he joined on staff duties. In early February 1944 he was given command of 487 Squadron at Hunsdon. Soon after his arrival the squadron took part in the historic raid on Amiens prison. After much preparation, it took place on February 18. Smith led the raiding force, made up of six Mosquitos each from 487, 464 and 21 Squadrons. Much has been written on the rights and wrongs of the attack but there is no doubt about the bravery of the crews who took part in the operation, the prime purpose of which was to save life and therefore considered to be very worthwhile. From later reports it is known that 258 of the 700 prisoners escaped, including half of those awaiting execution. Casualties were heavy inside the prison, some of the escapees were recaptured and some civilians outside the walls were killed. In early August Smith led 487 to bomb the barracks at Poictiers, where German troops were assembling prior to attacking the Maquis. The raid was particularly successful. A few weeks later 487 attacked the SS HQ at Vincey, near Metz. In October 1944 Smith was posted to 13 OTU, High Ercall, as Chief Instructor. He was granted a Permanent Commission in June 1945 and went on a course at RAF Staff College, Haifa in February 1946. Smith received a Mention in Despatches in 1945, a Commendation for Services in 1946, was made an OBE in 1953 and a CBE in 1960. He retired on February 2 1966, as a Group Captain. He died on February 16 2000.

Bromwich, moving to 7 FTS, Peterborough on December 11. Awarded his wings on March 17 1940, Smith completed the course on May 26 and was attached to the RAF on June 15. He converted to Hurricanes at 7 OTU, Hawarden and on July 2 he was attached to 145 Squadron at Tangmere. On the 12th, Smith overturned, attempting a forcedlanding NW of Ringwood during a patrol. The Hurricane, N 2703, was written off. Smith was reported ‘Missing’, following a combat S of the Isle of Wight on August 8 1940. His Hurricane, P 3545, crashed into the sea. He is remembered on the Fleet Air Arm Memorial at Leeon-Solent, Bay 1, Panel 3. Midshipman 1.7.39 Actg Sub-Lt 24.6.40

FRANK SMITH 994288

AC 2

Radar Operator

British

604 Squadron

Joined the RAFVR in June 1940, as an Aircrafthand. In late June Smith was at No 2 Electrical and Wireless School, Yatesbury, for what he expected to be the start of a Wop/AG course. Instead, he found himself learning about airborne radar and in July he was posted to 604 Squadron at Gravesend, never having flown. Smith flew operationally with 604, firstly in Blenheims and then Beaufighters, until December 13 1940, when he was posted back to Yatesbury for another radar course. In these five months with 604, Smith flew without rank or brevet, receiving three shillings per day, which included an extra one shilling flying pay. In January 1941 Smith was posted to a radar station at Saligo, Islay, Scotland. He died on September 5 1942, as a Sergeant with 12 Squadron and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 93.

GODFREY ERNEST SMITH 122301

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

264 Squadron

Smith joined the RAFVR in October 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner (969504). He completed his training and joined 264 Squadron at Kirton in-Lindsey in October 1940. He went to 256 Squadron at Catterick on December 16 1940. Commissioned in May 1942, Smith was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1980. PO 1.5.42 FO 1.11.42 FL 1.5.44

HARRY SMITH 970743

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

235 Squadron

Smith joined the RAFVR in October 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG.

APO 11.9.39 PO 13.7.40 FO 13.7.41 FL 18.5.42 SL 16.7.42 SL 1.9.45 WC 1.7.52 GC 1.1.59

With training completed, he joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton in midSeptember 1940 and flew his first operational sortie on the 21st, an aerodrome patrol, with Flight Lieutenant P A M Stickney as his pilot. Still serving with 235, Smith failed to return from operations on June 15 1941, in a Blenheim. Smith is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 37.

JAMES DUNCAN SMITH 40325

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

235 Squadron

Smith joined the RAFVR in September 1939, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. With training completed, he joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton in September 1940.

IRVING STANLEY SMITH PO

Pilot

New Zealander

Canadian

73 Squadron

Smith was with 87 in France from the outbreak of war until posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, where he arrived on May 13 1940. He was sent to PDC, Uxbridge on the 15th, for allocation to a squadron in France and he joined 73 Squadron there on May 27. On June 5 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17. The squadron was withdrawn from France to Church Fenton on June 17. Smith crashed at Workington on July 16, in Hurricane P 3647, on a non-operational flight. He claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and another damaged on September 11 and a Bf 109 destroyed on the 15th. 73 Squadron moved to Castle Camps in September and left Debden on November 9 for Birkenhead, en route to the Middle East. It embarked on HMS Furious on the 13th, with its aircraft, and flew off to Takoradi on the 29th. The squadron then flew in easy stages to Heliopolis, via Lagos, Accra, Kano, Maiduguri, Khartoum, Wadi Halfa and Abu Sueir. During December, the pilots were attached to 274 Squadron in the Western Desert.

He flew his first operational sortie on the 27th, an aerodrome patrol, with Pilot Officer J A Keard as his pilot. Smith flew his last sortie with 235 on November 11 1940, after which there is no further mention of him in the squadron ORB. It is known that he survived the war and was released from the RAF as a Warrant Officer.

43048

Pilot

Smith, of Winnipeg, was granted a short service commission and began his ab initio course on September 27 1937. He was posted to 10 FTS, Ternhill on December 11 and with training completed, he joined 87 Squadron at Debden on July 9 1938.

HOWARD SMITH 937119

FO

151 Squadron

Born in Invercargill on May 21 1917, Smith was educated in Whangarei and Auckland. He applied for a short service commission in the RNZAF and was accepted in January 1939. He began flying training at Mangere in May but then asked if he could train in England.

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

1943. They damaged a He 111 on May 5 1941. In July 1941 Smith was posted to No 2 School of Air Navigation at Cranage for a course, after which he returned to 219. He joined 153 Squadron at Ballyhalbert on February 14 1942 and was commissioned in June. The squadron flew in several stages to Maison Blanche, Algiers in December and became operational on the 25th. Styles and Smith destroyed a Ju 88 on January 21 1943 and a SM 79 on June 25. Smith left for the UK on September 6, escorting a German PoW, Leutnant Hoelzel. In October Smith went to 62 OTU, Ouston, for a course and he afterwards instructed on AI at 54 OTU, Winfield. On March 24 1944 he returned to operations, joining 264 Squadron at Church Fenton, flying in Mosquitos with Flight Lieutenant Burke as pilot. They covered the invasion and moved to France in August 1944. Smith was posted away in April 1945 and in June he went to a GCA unit, as a controller. He was released from the RAF on November 16 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant.

On the 14th, 16th and 18th Smith destroyed SM 79s and got a probable CR 42 on the 16th. In early January 1941 73 Squadron began operating on its own account. On April 14 the squadron took off to intercept CR 42 and G 50 fighters attacking Tobruk. Smith singlehandedly attacked five G 50s and shot down two and damaged a third before being shot down and killed. He was 27 and is buried in Knightsbridge War Cemetery, Acroma, Libya. He received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.42). His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde in 1940. APO 28.11.37 PO 27.9.38 FO 27.4.40

KENNETH BARTON SMITH 754895

Sgt

Pilot

British

257 Squadron

Smith was born in Bromley on May 29 1919 and educated in his early years at Tonbridge, Kent and then at Wintringham Grammar School at Grimsby, where his family then was.

PO 24.6.42 FO 24.12.42 FL 24.6.44

NORMAN HENRY JACKSON SMITH 42270

In 1936 he moved to London and worked for an insurance company. He joined the RAFVR on August 14 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, Smith went directly to 10 EFTS, Yatesbury for elementary flying training. He moved to 3 ITW, Hastings on October 2 and to 3 FTS, South Cerney on November 18. With the course completed on May 20, Smith joined 257 Squadron two days later at Hendon, where it was reforming. It was originally intended to have Spitfires but the few it received were replaced by

Pilot

British

234 Squadron

Born in 1918, Smith joined the RAFVR at Kidlington on November 11 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742480) and was called to full-time service in September 1939. He was posted to 3 ITW, Hastings in December, moved to 4 EFTS, Brough on March 3 1940 and completed his training at 14 FTS, Cranfield, from May 12 to September 28. Smith was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 29th and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 234 Squadron at St Eval on October 15 1940. He was posted away to 53 OTU, Llandow on July 8 1941. Smith was commissioned in October, attached to CFS, Upavon for an instructors’ course from November 17 and then returned to Llandow. On March 10 1942 Smith moved to 59 OTU at Crosby-on-Eden, remaining there until August 11, when he was posted to 559 Squadron, Brunton. He continued instructing at various units and specialised in refresher flying training. Smith had Wing Commander R R S Tuck as a pupil after the latter’s return from PoW camp. Smith was released from the RAF in late 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant. He rejoined the RAFVR in May 1947 and was instructing at Nottingham University Air Squadron. When the RAFVR ceased, Smith joined the RAuxAF, with a fighter control unit, serving until November 1963. At some time he changed his name to Hooper-Smith. He lived in Jersey and died there in 2007.

PERCY RONALD SMITH 581477 Sgt

Radar Operator

British

Observer

British

236 Squadron

Smith, of Streatham, London, joined the RAF about June 1939, as a direct-entry Airman u/t Observer. He completed his training and was with 236 Squadron in early July 1940. On November 19 Smith’s flight of 236 Squadron was posted to RAF Aldergrove, where it combined with a flight from 235 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron on the 21st. He flew his first sortie with 272 on that day. Smith was killed on November 24 1940, serving as a Sergeant with 272 Squadron, aged 25. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 19.

LEONARD SMITH AC 2

235 Squadron

APO 24.6.39 PO 27.12.39 FO 27.12 .40 FL 27.12.41 SL 24.6.45 FL 1.9.45

PO 17.10.41 FO 1.10.42 FL 22.10.43 FO (RAFVR) 27.5.47 FO (RAuxAF) 17.8.53

129976

British

He arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on December 28 and after converting to Blenheims, he joined 235 Squadron at Manston on January 25 1940. Smith destroyed a He 111 on August 15. He was awarded the DFC (27.5.41) as a Flying Officer with 235. On December 26 1944 Smith was leader of a strike force of Mosquitos of 235 Squadron, which attacked two motor vessels in Leitvik harbour, leaving one sinking and the second blazing. One enemy fighter was shot down and one Mosquito lost. Smith left the RAF after the war and worked for a time with Leonard Cheshire in the establishment of Cheshire Homes. He re-joined the RAF in 1960, flying helicopters and serving in Malaya, as well as in Australia in connection with nuclear tests. He retired from the RAF on March 29 1958, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Wing Commander. He later changed his name to Jackson-Smith. In 1960 Smith joined the Jesuits and worked in various religious communities including in Manchester and at Rainhill, Lancashire. He was living in a Jesuit retirement home in Bournemouth when he died on February 1 2014.

LAURENCE EDWARD SMITH Sgt

Pilot

Smith was born on April 15 1918 at Bebington, Cheshire. He attended St Mary’s School, Derbyshire. Smith served in the Cheshire Yeomanry before joining the RAF on a short service commission. He began his ab initio course on May 1 1939 at 9 E&RFTS, Ansty. He completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 12 Course, which ran from July 10 to December 9 1939.

Hurricanes. On August 8 1940 Smith failed to return from an action off St Catherine’s Point, in Hurricane R 4904. Two days later Lord Haw Haw broadcast his name and address as a PoW but Smith was not heard of again. He was 21 years old and is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 19.

112251

PO

219 Squadron

Smith joined the RAFVR at No 3 RAF Depot on June 7 1940, as an Aircrafthand (1003514). During basic training at West Kirby, he volunteered for aircrew duties and after selection, he was sent to No 2 Wireless and Electrical School at Yatesbury, for a short radar course.

PHILLIP RICHARD SMITH 45352

Sgt

Pilot

British

25 Squadron

Smith joined the RAF on June 8 1936, as a direct-entry pupil pilot (580208). After his ab initio course, he was formally enlisted in the RAF on August 4 1936, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He completed his training and was with 25 Squadron at Northolt in August 1939.

On July 21 1940 Smith joined 219 Squadron at Catterick. On the 30th Smith and Sergeant E R Lacey, air gunner, were in a Blenheim, piloted by Pilot Officer G M Head. They made a crash-landing at Catterick after the undercarriage could not be lowered. All three men were unhurt. Smith flew his first operational sortie with 219 on August 16 1940. In October the squadron began to receive Beaufighters. Many radar operators were posted away in late 1940 but Smith remained and in November he was promoted to Sergeant, with rank and pay back-dated. He crewed up with Pilot Officer Styles and they were to stay together until September

He served with 25 throughout the Battle of Britain and was still with it on November 20 1940. Commissioned in December 1940, Smith was killed on April 4 1943, as a Flight Lieutenant with 278 Squadron, an ASR unit. Smith’s name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 121. PO 18.12.40 FO 18.12.41 FL 18.12.42

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REGINALD CYRIL SMITH 565965

Sgt

Pilot

British

Smith was awarded the DFC (23.2.43). On March 10 1943, 112 Squadron was covering Kittyhawks of 250 and 260 Squadrons, strafing Axis positions NW of the Fuma and Tatauin area. In this operation, Smith was shot down by Major Münchberg, Kommodore of JG 27, and made a PoW. At some time he was held in Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 935). Smith was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in the early 1960s.

236 Squadron

Smith, of Chichester, was educated at Chiddingfold Church of England School. He joined the RAF in January 1932, as an Aircraft Apprentice and passed out in December 1934, as a Fitter.

APO 9.7.38 PO 16.5.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41

He later applied for pilot training and was selected. He remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot on May 1 1939. He carried out his elementary training at 15 E&RFTS, Redhill and went on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 12 Course, which ran from July 10 to December 9 1939. Smith joined 236 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on December 16. On August 1 1940 he was captain of Blenheim N 3603, which returned to Thorney Island with severe damage to its tail, caused by anti-aircraft fire during a low-level attack on Querqueville aerodrome. Smith was posted with his flight to RAF Aldergrove on November 19 1940, where it combined with a flight from 235 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron on the 21st. He flew his first operational sortie with the squadron on December 2. Smith was killed on July 19 1941, as a Flight Sergeant with 143 Squadron, a Beaufighter coastal-reconnaissance unit based at Dyce. He was 25 and his name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 37.

RODDICK LEE SMITH 37129

PO

Pilot

British

74 and 611 Squadrons

He went to 611 Squadron at Digby on October 30 but rejoined 74 Squadron, then at Biggin Hill, on November 26 1940. Smith was shot down by Bf 109s during a patrol over the Channel on March 27 1941 and reported ‘Missing’. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 34. PO 7.9.40

ROBERT ARCHER SMITH PO

Pilot

British

616 Squadron

Smith, of Pevensey, joined the RAFVR in January 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742891). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his elementary training and went on to 2 FTS, Brize Norton for No 45 Course, which ran from February 17 to June 15 1940. He was commissioned on the 18th and joined 616 Squadron at Leconfield on that day, direct from 2 FTS. Smith was killed in a flying accident on August 7 1940. There is no documentary evidence that he is entitled to the Battle of Britain clasp but he could be eligible and is included provisionally. He is buried in St Catherine’s churchyard, Leconfield. PO 18.6.40

ROBERT RUTHERFORD SMITH 40952

FO

Pilot

Canadian

British

151 Squadron

He was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham on the 30th and in February 1936, with his training completed he joined 19 Squadron at Duxford. In June 1936 Smith was seconded to the FAA. He flew floatplanes at Calshot, went to No 1 FTS, Leuchars for training on Nimrods and Ospreys and in August he was attached to 19 Squadron for the Sassoon Trophy, which the squadron won. Smith joined 801 (Fleet Fighter) Squadron on September 22 1936, based at Southampton and on HMS Furious. On January 26 1937 he was posted to the Pilot Pool at Gosport, where he remained until January 3 1938, when he joined 802 (Fleet Fighter) Squadron, based at Hal Far, Malta and on HMS Glorious in the Mediterranean. On July 19 1939 Smith went to 13 FTS, Drem, for flying duties, as a Flight Commander with theAdvanced Training Squadron. He went to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on November 2 1939, as an instructor and also ‘A’ Flight Commander. The unit was redesignated 5 OTU on March 15 1940. Smith was posted to 151 Squadron at North Weald on June 10 1940, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. On June 30 and July 14 he probably destroyed Bf 109s, on August 13 probably a Do 17, on the 24th he destroyed a Do 17 and on the 31st he got a probable Bf 109 and damaged another. He was posted away to Kirton-in-Lindsey on November 24 1940 to form and then command 255 Squadron. Smith destroyed a Ju 88 at night on May 5 1941 and during the night of May 8/9 he destroyed a He 111 and probably another, off the coast of East Yorkshire. He was sent to 54 OTU, Church Fenton on June 14 for a course, after which he was posted to 60 OTU, East Fortune, to instruct on Defiants. Smith took command of 32 Squadron at Manston on December 12 1941 and led the squadron until promoted to Wing Commander in April 1942, to go to HQ Fighter Command as Permanent President, Courts of Enquiry into accidents. He was also ASR Staff Officer. In July 1943 Smith did a Spitfire refresher course at Aston Down. In August he was attached to Charmy Down, for a Day Fighter Leader course. From September to November he was attached in turn to 129, 403 and 421 Squadrons. Smith was appointed Deputy SPSO at HQ Fighter Command in December 1943 and in March 1944 he went on the 2nd course at the Empire Test Pilots’ School at Cranfield. Smith was attached to Hawker’s at Langley in November 1944 and posted to Napier’s at Luton in January 1945, as an experimental test pilot on Tempests. He later moved to Percival’s at Luton, to test Mosquitos. In June Smith was appointed OC ‘D’ Squadron at Boscombe Down. On June 3 1946 he went to the Empire Test Pilots’ School at Cranfield, as OC Flying for the 5th Course. In the post-war RAF Smith held a series of appointments and commands in Britain and Germany. He was made OBE (12.6.58) and retired from the RAF on June 23 1962 as a Wing Commander.

Smith joined the RAFVR in January 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741249). Called up on September 1 1939, Smith completed his course at FTS on September 6 1940, was commissioned next day and reported to 7 OTU. After converting to Spitfires, Smith joined 74 Squadron on September 30. He flew operational sorties on October 8 and 9.

82947

Pilot

Born on June 23 1915, Smith joined the RAF on a short service commission on March 15 1935.

ROBERT SMITH 87383

FL

229 Squadron

APO 15.3.35 PO 15.3.36 FO 15.9.37 FL 15.9.39 SL 1.2.40 WC 1.3.42 WC 1.7.54

Smith, of London, Ontario, joined the RAF as a candidate for a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 16 1938, as a pupil pilot.

WILLIAM ALEXANDER SMITH 40026

With training completed, he joined No 2 Armament Training Station, Aldergrove on April 5 1939, as a staff pilot. The unit was redesignated No 3 Air Observer School on April 17 1939. Smith joined 229 Squadron from 3 AOS, when it was reformed at Digby on October 6 1939. He was attached to RAF Locking from December 2 to 11 1939, for a parachute course. Over Dunkirk on May 29 1940, Smith destroyed a Bf 109 and on June 1 he destroyed a Ju 87 and probably another. He claimed a He 111 probably destroyed on September 11 and on the 15th he was shot down in an attack on Do 17s and Bf 110s over Sevenoaks. He baled out, with leg wounds, from Hurricane V 6616. On this day he damaged a Bf 109. In September 1942 Smith did a course at No 1 METS before joining 112 Squadron in the Western Desert. On October 22 he destroyed a Bf 109, on the 31st destroyed a Ju 87, on November 5 destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another, on the 17th shared in the destruction of a Bf 109 and on December 10 he destroyed a Bf 109 and a Mc 202.

FO

Pilot

British

229 Squadron

Smith was born in Lucknow, India on November 18 1915. He was educated in Scotland and read Engineering at Edinburgh. He left before obtaining his degree and joined the RAF on a short service commission, beginning his ab initio course on May 24 1937, as a pupil pilot at 5 E&RFTS, Hanworth. Smith went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge for a short disciplinary course on August 10. He moved to 3 FTS, South Cerney on the 23rd and after completing the course, he joined 2 AACU at Lee-on-Solent on March 26 1938. He was posted to 66 Squadron at Duxford on February 1 1939. On May 13 1940 Smith probably destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged a Ju 87 and over Dunkirk on June 2 he damaged a Bf

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

Smith then ceased to be a Flight Commander and joined ‘A’ Flight, commanded by Squadron Leader J G Munro. Smith was killed on December 29 1940, when he crashed near Bovey Tracey in Whirlwind P 6975. He was 25 and he is buried in Exeter Higher Cemetery, Devon.

109. Smith joined 229 Squadron at Digby on June 1 1940, as ‘A’ Flight Commander, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant. He shared in the destruction of a He 111 on September 11, damaged a He 111 on the 15th and probably destroyed a He 111 on the 26th. The next day Smith attacked some Ju 88s, damaging one but being hit himself by crossfire. He made a forced-landing at Linfield, writing off Hurricane P 3603. On the 30th he damaged a He 111. On October 6 Smith made a crash-landing in Hurricane P 3716 near Leatherhead after a routine patrol, out of fuel and with the radio not working. He damaged a Do 17 on the 24th. In May 1941 229 Squadron went to the Middle East. It flew its Hurricanes off HMS Furious to Malta on the 21st, refuelled and flew on to Mersa Matruh. The pilots were attached to 73 and 274 Squadrons in the Western Desert. On July 15 Smith destroyed a Ju 87 and probably another. On September 1 the squadron began to operate on its own account and in October Smith took command. On November 23 he destroyed a Ju 87 and probably another, on the 29th damaged a G50, on December 3 damaged a SM 84, on the 14th destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 27th destroyed a Ju 88. Smith was shot down and wounded on January 9 1942. He rejoined the squadron on February 7 and left six days later to command the Air Fighting School. When this was expanded to be No 1 METS, El Ballah, he was made OC of the Air Fighting Flight. He was awarded the DFC (17.3.42). On September 10 1942 Smith was posted to Air HQ Egypt and was there until December 22, going then to Air HQ Malta. He took command of 1435 Squadron at Luqa on January 3 1943, shot down a Z 1007 on February 17 and led the squadron until March 10, when he went to HQ Middle East in Cairo. In June 1944 Smith returned to the UK and was at HQ Transport Command. He went to 17 SFTS, Cranwell, for a twin engine course, on July 26 and moved to 105 (Transport) OTU at Bramcote on October 19. Smith joined 11 FU on January 1 1945, serving with it until August 8, when he was posted to 108 (Transport) OTU, to convert to Dakotas. He joined 187 Squadron at Merryfield on September 5 1945. This unit was disbanded in December 1946 and Smith went to 53 Squadron. In the post-war RAF, Smith held a series of appointments and commands prior to his retirement on November 24 1962 as a Wing Commander. Smith died in the RAF Hospital, Ely on November 21 1990.

APO 7.10.35 PO 7.10.36 FO 7.5.38 FL 7.5.40

ROSS SMITHER C 1594

Pilot

British

Canadian

1 (RCAF) Squadron

Smither was detached to RAF Uxbridge from July 5 to 9 for an R/T procedure course. He damaged a Bf 109 on August 31 and he destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged another on September 4. He was shot down and killed by Bf 109s over Tunbridge Wells on the 15th, in Hurricane P 3876. Smither was 27 years old and he is buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery. Smither’s brother, Pilot Officer S F Smither, RCAF was killed on June 5 1942 in action on Circus 188, aged 21. He was serving with 401 (RCAF) Squadron. He is buried in Abbeville, France.

JULIAN LANGLEY SMITHERS 90540

PO

Pilot

British

601 Squadron

Smithers, of Knockholt, Kent, was educated at Eton. He entered the City, when he went to work in his father’s stockbroking firm. He became a member of the Stock Exchange in early 1940. In 1938 Smithers had joined 601 Squadron, AAF. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939. After completing his training, Smithers arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 6 1940. He converted to Blenheims and joined 23 Squadron at Colleyweston on June 13 1940. Smithers was with 23 until July 8, when he left to rejoin 601 Squadron at Tangmere. He made his first flight there on July 9, type experience. On August 11 he was shot down and killed during a combat off Portland and crashed into the sea, in Hurricane P 3885. Smithers was 24. He is buried in Ste Marie Cemetery, Le Havre, France.

WILLIAM BRUCE SMITH Sgt

Pilot

Born in London, Ontario on November 12 1912, Smither joined the RCAF on September 10 1939. He was with No 1 (RCAF) Squadron when it arrived in the UK on June 20 1940.

APO 9.8.37 PO 24.5.38 FO 24.12.39 FL 24.12.40 SL 1.3.42 SL 1.9.45 WC 1.1.53

742002

FO

234 and 602 Squadrons

Smith was born in Banff, Alberta on August 22 1914 to British parents. Shortly after his birth the family returned to the UK and settled in Reading. Smith attended Reading Grammar School and went on to complete a three-year part-time course in mechanical engineering at RAE, Farnborough. He worked in the drawing office of Miles Aircraft, Woodley, Berkshire.

APO (AAF) 27.11.38 APO 24.8.39 PO 4.5.40

RICHARD SMITHSON 46174

Smith joined the RAFVR in September 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 12 1940. After converting to Spitfires, Smith joined 234 Squadron at Middle Wallop on September 5. He flew eight operational sorties with 234, the first being on the 13th and the last on the 23rd. Smith joined 602 Squadron at Westhampnett on October 6 1940 and flew his first sortie on the 10th. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 29th. Smith was shot down in a surprise attack by Bf 109s the next day and crash-landed on the foreshore at Greatstone, near Lydd, wounded. His Spitfire, X 4542, was written off. He did not fly again, medically unfit. Smith worked for Handley Page after the war. He died on June 17 1975.

FL

Pilot

British

Pilot

British

249 Squadron

Smithson, of South Hetton, joined the RAF in August 1935, as an Aircrafthand (522917). He later applied for pilot training and was selected. He remustered to Airman u/t Pilot on July 27 1939. He did his elementary training at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley and went on to 10 FTS, Ternhill on October 9 1939, for No 15 Course. He fell sick and was transferred to No 16 Course, which ended on May 11 1940. Smithson joined 249 Squadron at Church Fenton on May 16, direct from 10 FTS. On September 5 he probably destroyed a Do 17 and damaged another. He crashed at Eastchurch after a combat with Bf 109s over Maidstone on September 7, in Hurricane V 6574. He was wounded and did not return to the squadron until October 13. Smithson was posted from 249 to 96 Squadron on December 18 1940, when it was reformed at Cranage, with 422 Flight as a nucleus. Commissioned in July 1941, Smithson was killed on the 22nd of the month, as a Pilot Officer with 96 Squadron, aged 25. He is buried in the Holy Trinity churchyard, South Hetton, Durham.

WYNFORD ORMONDE LEONI SMITH 37366

Sgt

263 Squadron

Smith, of Worthing, joined the RAF on a short service commission in October 1935. He was posted to 6 FTS, Netheravon on October 19 and with training completed, he went to the School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum for a course. On February 11 1937 Smith was posted to the Aircraft Depot, Karachi, moving afterwards to 5 (Army Cooperation) Squadron at Risalpur.

PO 17.7.41

RONALD HENRY SMYTH 103514

It would appear that Smith was a flying instructor at No 1 FTS, Leuchars in Spring 1940. He joined 263 Squadron at Drem from No 1 FTS on June 20 1940. On July 13 he was involved in a night flying accident, crashing at Carstairs Junction Public School, Lanark, attempting to land in a built-up area. Smith was unhurt. The Hurricane, P 2991, was written off. He assumed command of ‘C’ Flight of 263, when it was formed on July 15, to develop the Whirlwind. However ‘C’ Flight was disbanded on August 7 1940, when ‘A’ Flight became non-operational with Whirlwinds and ‘B’ Flight remained operational with Hurricanes.

Sgt

Pilot British

25, 111 and 249 Squadrons

Joined the RAFVR on May 8 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748579) and was called up at the outbreak of war. He went to No 1 ITW, Cambridge on September 7 and to 10 EFTS, Yatesbury on December 5 1939. Smyth went to 3 FTS, South Cerney for No 34 Course, from April 28 to August 3 1940. With the course completed, Smyth arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 3,

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RUPERT FREDERICK SMYTHE

converted to Blenheims and joined 25 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on August 19. Two days later Smyth was transferred to 111 Squadron at Debden. He was detached to 5 OTU on August 26, to convert to Hurricanes, after which he rejoined 111, then at Drem, on September 19. He went to 249 Squadron at North Weald on October 2 and then to 615 Squadron on November 19 1940. Smyth went to CFS, Upavon on May 8 1941, for an instructors’ course. On June 13 he joined the staff at 9 FTS, Hullavington and he was commissioned on August 5. In October Smyth was posted to No 1 Glider Training Squadron at Thame, a newly-formed Development Unit, allied to the Airborne Forces to train instructors and Army pilots to fly Hotspur gliders. Smyth instructed, as a Flight Commander, at No 1 Glider Training School, Croughton until April 1943. He was then posted to 3 School of General Reconnaissance at Squires Gate, under Coastal Command, qualified for his 2nd Class Air Navigators’ Licence and moved to 8 OTU, Dyce on June 22 1943, for photographic-reconnaissance training on Spitfires. Smyth went to the Benson PRU in September and after returning from a trip to Tunis, he joined 541 (PR) Squadron at Benson, on December 15. He commanded the PRU in Gibraltar from March 9 to September 12 1944, when the Unit returned to Benson. Awarded the DFC (27.7.45), Smyth ferried communications during July and August between London and Churchill at Biarritz and Atlee in Berlin, for the Potsdam Conference. He left 541 Squadron in September 1945 and his final flying duties were high-level meterological flights at Tain in October. Smyth was released from the RAF in January 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 5.8.41

FO 5.8.4

40436

PO

British

British

32 Squadron

He was posted to 11 FTS, Wittering in January 1938 and with training completed, he joined 29 Squadron at Debden on October 24. On September 7 1939 Smythe joined 504 Squadron at Digby. He was posted to 32 Squadron at Gravesend on January 26 1940. He joined it on February 2, after leave. Smythe was ordered to RAF Hendon on May 17 1940, for an onward posting to a squadron in France. This did not eventuate and he rejoined 32 Squadron on May 24. Over Dunkirk on June 2, he destroyed a Ju 88 and probably a Bf 109. In a patrol over France on June 11 Smythe destroyed a Hs 126. He claimed two Bf 109s destroyed on July 4, probably destroyed another on the 19th, destroyed a Do 17 on August 12, another Bf 109 on the 14th and damaged Do 17s on the 20th and 22nd. Smythe was shot down in combat with Bf 109s over Folkestone on August 24 and crashed at Lyminge, in Hurricane V 6568, wounded. He was taken to the Royal Masonic Hospital at Hammersmith. He was awarded the DFC (30.8.40). Smythe rejoined 32 Squadron on November 1 1940. He did not return to operational flying. He was posted away from 32 in December 1940, to 2 CFS, Cranwell, for an instructor’s course. He arrived at 15 EFTS on January 22 1941, to instruct. Smythe was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant.

FL 5.8.43

Air Gunner

Pilot

Smythe was born in Killiney, Co Dublin. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 25 1937, as a pupil pilot.

DEREK MYLES ALTAMONT SMYTHE 79196

FO

APO 9.1.38 PO 25.10.38 FO 25.7.40 FL 25.7.41

264 Squadron

WILLIAM GEORGE SNAPE

Smythe was born on June 26 1914. He joined the RAFVR on a direct-entry commission as an Air Gunner on April 20 1940. He carried out his gunnery training at No 1 Air Armament School at Manby and completed the Air Gunners’ Course there on June 12.

50692

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

25 Squadron

Snape enlisted in the RFC in 1915 and transferred to the RAF on April 1 1918 (12272). At some time later he remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and was with 25 Squadron at Northolt at the outbreak of war.

On the 14th Smythe arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down, to convert to Defiants. He joined 264 Squadron at Duxford on July 9 1940. Apart from a short Gunnery Leaders’ course at Warmwell in late December 1940, Smythe stayed with 264 until June 30 1942, when the squadron received Mosquitos. In July 1942 Smythe joined 515 Squadron, then forming at Northolt with Defiants. The squadron aircraft had special equipment to jam German radar. They flew out over the Channel ahead of Bomber Command to confuse the enemy as to the bombers’ destination. Smythe was posted away in July 1943. He joined 223 Squadron on January 20 1944, operating in Baltimores from Celone, Italy, as Gunnery Leader. Smythe left the squadron on September 18 and was awarded the DFC (14.11.44). From April 9 1945 to February 3 1946 he was with 45 Group Transport Command at Dorval, Montreal, as Group Accidents Investigator. Smythe was released from the RAF in March 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant.

He was promoted to Warrant Officer on January 12 1940. Snape served with 25 Squadron throughout the Battle of Britain. He is last mentioned in the squadron ORB on December 21 1940. Commissioned in the Technical Branch (Signals) in July 1942, Snape was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flying Officer. He died on August 22 1955. PO 14.7.42 FO 14.1.43

VIVIAN ROBERT SNELL 41485

FO

Pilot

British

151 and 501 Squadrons

Snell was born in Swansea, the son of a music publisher. He joined the RAF as a short service commission candidate and began his ab initio course on October 6 1938, as a pupil pilot.

APO 20.4.40 PO 12.6.40 FO 12.6.41 FL 14.5.42

GEORGE SMYTHE

Over Dunkirk on May 27 1940, Smythe probably destroyed a Bf 110 and on the 29th destroyed a Ju 87. On June 7 and 30 he claimed Bf 109s destroyed, on July 13 he probably destroyed a Ju 87, on August 12 a Bf 109 and on the 16th a probable Bf 110 and another damaged. Smythe wrecked Hurricane P 3473, in a forced-landing at Courtsend, Foulness on the 26th, after a combat with Bf 109s. On the 28th he destroyed a Bf 109 and was then shot down himself by another. He baled out, unhurt. The Hurricane, N 2524, crashed in flames at Ladwood Farm, Acrise. Smythe was awarded the DFM (30.8.40). He was a Flight Sergeant by November 5 1940. Commissioned in January 1942, Smythe was at HQ Kandy in September 1945, as a Squadron Leader on staff duties. He was made an MBE (13.6.46) and retired from the RAF on November 24 1961 as a Wing Commander.

He went on to 6 FTS, Little Rissington for No 11 Course, from January 2 to August 5 1939. With training completed, Snell joined 88 Squadron at Boscombe Down, direct from 6 FTS. He later joined 98 Squadron and went with it to France on April 16 1940, where it served as a pool, providing pilots and aircrew for other Battle squadrons. Snell was later with 103 Squadron, again flying Fairey Battles. He probably joined it in France, before it was withdrawn to Abingdon on June 15 1940. Snell volunteered for Fighter Command in August and on September 4 he joined 151 Squadron at Digby. He moved to 501 Squadron at Kenley on September 26. He shared in the destruction of a Bf 109 on October 25 but was then himself shot down over Cranbrook, in Hurricane N 2438. On December 11 1940 Snell joined 308 Squadron at Baginton, a recently-formed Polish fighter squadron, which was declared operational on December 12. Snell commanded 125 Squadron at Church Fenton from October 1945 until it was disbanded there on November 20 1945. Snell was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Wing Commander. He died on August 14 2007.

PO 27.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 1.10.43 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.7.54

APO 14.12.38 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.7.44

47752

Sgt

Pilot

British

56 Squadron

Born in Westminster, London on June 10 1915, Smythe joined the RAF in January 1932, as an Aircraft Apprentice (565977) and passed out in December 1934. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. With training completed, he joined 56 Squadron on September 3 1939.

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

WILLIAM GEORGE SNOW

JOHN FLEWELLING SODEN

84678

42903

PO

Pilot

British

236 Squadron

PO

Pilot

British

266 and 603 Squadrons

Snow joined the RAFVR about March 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741404). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at FTS on August 9 1940 and he went directly to No 1 (C) OTU, Silloth, to convert to Blenheims. He was commissioned on the 10th.

Soden joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on August 14 1939, as a pupil pilot. He moved on to 9 FTS, Hullavington for No 16 Course, which ran from December 31 1939 to June 9 1940.

He joined 236 Squadron at St Eval on September 9 1940. Snow’s flight was posted to RAF Aldergrove on November 19 1940, where it combined with a flight of 235 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron. He flew his first operational sortie with 272 on November 20. Snow went with 272 Squadron to the Middle East on May 24 1941. He was shot down by a Bf 109 during a strafing attack on Timimi airfield, Libya on December 6 1941. He made a forced-landing two miles N of Tobruk.and was captured by the Germans. At some time he was held in Stalag Luft 3 at Sagan (PoW No 710). He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant.

With the course completed, he arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 10. He converted to Spitfires and then joined 266 Squadron at Wittering on June 27. On August 15 Soden shared in the destruction of a He 115 floatplane. In combat with Bf 109s over Canterbury the next day, his Spitfire, K 9864, was severely damaged and he made a forced-landing near Oare, Faversham, slightly wounded in the legs. Soden was non-effective sick until September 13. On the 14th he was posted to 603 Squadron at Hornchurch. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 17th, destroyed Bf 109s on September 30 and October 10 and probably another on the 12th. Following a combat with Bf 109s over the Sussex coast on the 25th, Soden baled out and injured his right leg, landing at Perryfields. He was admitted to East Sussex Hospital, Hastings. His Spitfire, P 7325, crashed at Stonelink Farm, Brede. In 1941 Soden was with 112 Squadron in the Middle East. On November 20 1941 he damaged a Bf 110 and on December 5 he destroyed a Ju 87 and probably a Bf 109 Posted back to the UK in August 1942, Soden was lost in the troopship SS Laconia, sunk by U-boat U 156 on September 12 1942. He is remembered on the Alamein Memorial, Column 247. One of Soden’s brothers, Flight Lieutenant Ian Scovil Soden, died on May 18 1940, with 56 Squadron during the Battle of France. Another brother died in Burma.

PO 10.8.40 FO 10.8.41 FL 10.8.42

ERNEST GEORGE SNOWDEN 101031

Sgt

Pilot

British

213 Squadron

Snowden joined the RAFVR in February 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745043). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 5 FTS, Sealand on No 44 Course, from November 6 1939 to May 18 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on May 18 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 213 Squadron at Exeter on May 26 1940. On August 11 Snowden destroyed a Bf 110 over Portland. His engine was set alight by return fire and he made a forcedlanding on Lulworth range, in Hurricane P 3585, unhurt. On the 25th he destroyed three Ju 88s. In the early evening of this day, Snowden made a forced-landing at Burton Bradstock, after his Hurricane, N 2646, was badly damaged in

APO 23.10.39 PO 2.6.40 FO 2.6.41 FL 2.6.42

JERZY JAKUB SOLAK 76766

PO

Pilot

Polish

151 and 249 Squadrons

Solak was born on August 22 1910. He arrived in England in late 1939 and was at RAF Eastchurch in January 1940. He was enlisted and commissioned in the RAFVR on January 27.

combat with a Bf 109. On September 12 he damaged a Ju 88, on the 15th destroyed a Bf 110, on the 26th probably destroyed a Bf 109, on October 9 destroyed a Ju 88 and on November 6 he damaged a Bf 109. Commissioned in June 1941, Snowden was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. Snowden was killed on November 20 1947. He was the pilot of an Anson of British Air Transport carrying newspapers from Croydon to the Channel Islands. The aircraft was well off course when it crashed at the radar station on St Boniface Down near Ventnor, Isle of Wight; both crew members died.

He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 3 1940 and after converting to Spitfires he joined 74 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on August 21 1940. On November 1 Soars was shot down in a surprise attack by Bf 109s during a patrol over Dover, in Spitfire P 7523, wounded. He was admitted to Victoria Hospital, Folkestone. The date of his rejoining 74 Squadron is not known. Soars was promoted to Warrant Officer on May 1 1942 and commissioned in October. He was released from the RAF in 1947 as a Flight Lieutenant. He served in the RAFVR from 1947 to 1955. He died in 1975.

From June 1 1940 Solak was with the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. He was probably on the 3rd Polish Pilots’ Course at No 1 School of Army Co-operation, Old Sarum from July 22 to 29, for testing and grading. Solak arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on July 29 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 151 Squadron at North Weald on August 28 1940. It would seem that he was non effective sick on arrival because he ‘rejoined for duty from North Weald’ to 151’s new base at Digby on September 3 1940. Solak made his first flight with 151 on September 5, local flying. He moved to 249 Squadron at North Weald on September 27. He is believed to have probably destroyed a Bf 109 on October 29 but it was not claimed. He was posted to 317 Squadron at Acklington at its formation on February 22 1941. Solak was awarded the KW (30.10.41) and posted away to 164 Squadron at Skeabrae on June 9 1942. He moved to 609 Squadron at Duxford on August 8 and was with it until February 4 1943, when he joined AFDU, also at Duxford. On April 4 1943 Solak was posted to 41 Squadron at Hawkinge and on June 4 he destroyed a FW 190. Solak was posted away to HQ Fighter Command on October 12 1943, as Polish Liaison Officer, and he was awarded two Bars to the KW (20.10.43). On April 4 1944 he went to HQ PAF and from May until August 1944 he was with the 48th Fighter-Bomber Squadron (USAF). Solak was posted to HQ 84 Group on May 29 1945, was awarded the VM (5th Class) (25.6.45) and released from the PAF in late 1946. He later went to live in the USA.

PO 5.10.42 FO 5.4.43 FL 5.10.44 FO (RAFVR) 11.9.47

PO 27.1.40 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.9.42

PHILIP ALFRED SOBEY

NEVILLE DAVID SOLOMON

PO 28.6.41 FO 28.6.42 FL 28.6.43

HAROLD JOHN SOARS 134228

Sgt

Pilot

British

74 Squadron

Soars joined the RAFVR about December 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742705). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his elementary flying training at 7 EFTS, Desford and then went on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 19 Course, which ran from April 11 to July 24 1940.

904838

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

235 Squadron

79731

PO

Pilot

British

29 and 17 Squadrons

Sobey joined the RAFVR in October 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. He completed his training and joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on August 22 1940.

Solomon joined the RAFVR about September 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742006). He carried out his elementary flying training at 27 E&RFTS, Nottingham.

Sobey was killed on November 9 1940, as a Sergeant with 22 Squadron, aged 22. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 17.

Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 17 Course, from December 9 1939 to May 26 1940.

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Tour-expired, Southorn went, as an instructor, to 223 Squadron at Shandur, Egypt on October 4 1941, then operating as an OTU. He went down to South Africa on January 27 1942, to instruct at 45 Air School, Oudtshoorn. On September 12 he went to 65 Air School, Capetown, for a Senior Armament Instructor’s course, after which he returned to Oudtshoorn. He was promoted to Warrant Officer on October 1 1942. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in April 1943, Southorn was sent to HQ 25 Group, Port Elizabeth on November 1, to the Central Examination Board, to take charge of all examinations on bombing and gunnery. In mid-May 1944 Southorn was posted back to the UK, arriving in mid-August. He was posted to the Empire Air Armament School at Manby, for a Specialist Armament Officers’ course and sat the final examination on the day after the war finished. Southorn was released from the RAF later in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant.

When the course ended, he was commissioned and sent to 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 27. After converting to Blenheims, Solomon joined 29 Squadron at Digby on June 16. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 16, on attachment from 29 Squadron, for a refresher course but on the 18th his attachment ceased and he was posted to 17 Squadron at Debden. With no Hurricane experience, Solomon returned to 6 OTU on July 25, converted to Hurricanes and rejoined 17 Squadron on August 10. Solomon was reported ‘Missing’on August 18 1940, after an action with Bf 109s off Dover. His Hurricane, L 1921, crashed into the sea. He was 26 and is buried in Pihen-les-Guines Cemetery, France. PO 26.5.40

LAWRENCE CHARLES SONES 127803

Sgt

Pilot

British

605 Squadron

PO 24.4.43 FO 24.10.43 FL 24.4.45

In 1932 Sones was a civil servant, when he enlisted in 601 Squadron, AAF, as a wireless operator. When the RAFVR came into being in 1937, he left 601 in September, to join it, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740763).

JOHN SYDNEY SOUTHWELL 41959

PO

Pilot

British

245 Squadron

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on February 6 1939, as a pupil pilot.

Sones did his flying training at 18 E&RFTS, Fair Oaks and had just been awarded his flying badge when war was declared. He was called to full-time service and after some weeks billeted at home, Sones went to 4 FTS, Brough for a flying instructor’s course. He failed this and was sent to 3 ITW, Hastings. On February 5 1940 Sones was posted to 14 FTS, Kinloss, to requalify as a pilot on low wing monoplanes. At the end of the course he went on leave, with instructions to report to 5 OTU, Aston Down. When he arrived home, a telegram was waiting, cancelling his leave and ordering him to report to 605 Squadron at Drem. Sones joined the squadron on June 18 1940. On September 27 Sones probably destroyed a Bf 109, on November 1 he damaged a Bf 109 and on the 23rd he shared in the destruction of another. On December 18 1940 he was posted to 96 Squadron, then forming at Cranage for night-fighting operations. He was later with 258, 403 and 111 Squadrons. In April 1942 Sones went to 52 OTU, Aston Down, as an air firing instructor and was commissioned from Warrant Officer in July. He joined 65 Squadron at Drem in October. In January 1943 the squadron was on HMS Argus, practicing deck landings and seeing how the RAF would cope on aircraft carriers. The experiment was not successful. In May 1943 Sones went to North Africa and joined 93 Squadron at Souk-el-Khemis. He was later with 74 Squadron in Cyprus and Egypt. He returned to the UK in February 1944 and later went into Maintenance Command, as a test pilot. Sones was released from the RAF on September 13 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. He returned to the Civil Service.

After completing his training, Southwell joined the recently-reformed 245 Squadron at Leconfield on November 6 1939. He was detached to 605 Squadron for a short period from March 30 1940. He went to France with ‘A’ Flight of 245 on May 16. On the 17th he destroyed a Bf 109. The flight rejoined 245 Squadron at Drem on May 24. Over Dunkirk on May 30 1940 Southwell probably destroyed a Do 17, on June 1 he destroyed two Bf 109s and on June 23 he probably destroyed another off Calais. He served with 245 throughout the Battle of Britain. Southwell was posted away on December 10 1940, on an overseas posting. In early 1941 he was with 274 Squadron in the Western Desert. On March 17 1941 a flight of the squadron, Southwell among them, was detached to Malta, to reinforce 261 Squadron there. On March 22 eight Hurricanes of 261 took off to meet ten Ju 88s approaching Grand Harbour, with a Bf 109 escort. In the ensuing engagement, five of the Hurricanes were shot down, including V 7799, flown by Southwell. All five pilots were lost. Southwell is buried in Capuccini Naval Cemetery, Malta. APO 15.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40

ARTHUR WILLIAM PETER SPEARS 50686

PO 11.7.42 FO 11.1.43 FL 11.7.44

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

23 Squadron

Southall, of Wolverhampton, joined the RAFVR in October 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner. He completed his training and joined 23 Squadron at Ford on October 5 1940.

GEORGE ALBERT SOUTHORN Sgt

Observer

British

222 Squadron, 421 Flight

In October 1935 Spears went with the squadron to Khartoum, returning to Kenley in August 1936. He was promoted to LAC after passing a trade test in 1937. He later applied for pilot training, was selected and in June 1939 he was posted to 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham for his ab initio course, which he completed successfully. In August 1939 Spears went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting and on September 2 he was sent to 12 FTS, Grantham, where he flew Harts and later Ansons. In February 1940 he was posted to Jurby for a bombing course, after which he returned to Grantham. On February 24 Spears went to 12 Group Pool at Aston Down, the forerunner of 5 OTU. He converted to Blenheims and then joined 222 Squadron at Duxford on March 31. Soon afterwards the squadron was re-equipped with Spitfires. Spears flew one for the first time after a short reading of the Pilots’ notes. On August 30 1940 he was shot down in combat with Bf 109s. He baled out and was taken by the Army to RAF Eastchurch. His Spitfire, P 9323, crashed at South Lees Farm, Minster, Sheppey. Spears was bombed at Eastchurch the next morning. He made his way back to Hornchurch by underground, via Charing Cross. Spears damaged Bf 109s on September 11 and 15. On October 4 he was posted to 421 Flight at Hawkinge and remained with it when it was renumbered 91 Squadron on January 11 1941.

He was a member of the crew of a Blenheim, which ran out of fuel returning from an offensive night patrol over France on December 22 and crashed into the Channel off the Isle of Wight. The three men on board baled out. The pilot, Sergeant Loveridge, landed safely at Shanklin on the Isle of Wight. Southall and the observer, Sergeant Newman, landed in the sea and both were drowned. Their bodies were washed ashore. Southall was 20 and he is buried in St Philip’s churchyard, Penn Fields, Wolverhampton.

149124

British

Spears was born on December 13 1915. He was a nephew of James McCudden VC. He was educated at Wanstead County High School and joined the RAF in January 1932, as an Aircraft Apprentice (565940). He wanted to be a Fitter, Aero Engines but became a Metal Rigger. After qualifying in December 1934, he was posted to 3 Squadron at Kenley.

GEORGE SOUTHALL 938291

Sgt Pilot

235 Squadron

Born on August 21 1911, Southorn joined the RAFVR on April 4 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (747807). He was called up on September 1 and after completing his training, he joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on August 18 1940. His flight of 235 Squadron was posted to RAF Aldergrove on November 19 1940, where it combined with a flight of 236 Squadron to reform 272 Squadron on the 21st. He flew his first operational sortie with 272 on November 24. Southorn went to the Overseas Aircraft Delivery Flight at Kemble on January 18 1941 and flew from Tangmere, on his way to join 69 Squadron at Luqa, Malta on March 12.

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On December 10 1940 Spence was posted away to the Middle East and joined 274 Squadron in the Western Desert. On April 11 he shared in shooting down a Cant Z 1007 into the sea, on the 19th he destroyed a Ju 88 and a Bf 109 and on the 21st another Bf 109. In this combat Spence got so close that he collided with the enemy fighter. He managed to glide his damaged Hurricane back to the British lines and then returned to his squadron in a Blenheim. It is believed that the two Bf 109s shot down by Spence were flown by the same pilot, Leutnant Schroer. On April 30 1941 274 Squadron carried out ground strafing operations and during one of these Spence was shot down and killed by Oberleutnant Redlich of 1/JG 27, whilst he was making a low-level attack on enemy columns between Gazala and Sollum. Spence is buried in Tobruk War Cemetery.

Spears was shot down by Adolf Galland over Kent on April 4 1941, the German pilot’s 58th victory. He was admitted to hospital in Deal with shell splinters in the right arm and bullets in the leg. Spears lost his flying category and was attached to Redhill in September 1941, as a Duty Pilot, on flying control. After a week he was posted to Croydon, in the control tower. Spears regained his category and was attached to the ADF at Croydon. He was commissioned from Warrant Officer in October 1942. A year later he went to Heston to command the Station Flight. In July 1944 Spears was posted to the Communications Squadron, Allied Expeditionary Forces. He flew VIPs around and later became personal pilot to Air Vice-Marshal Wiggleswoth. After the war Spears transferred to the Engineer Branch. He retired on December 13 1970 as a Squadron Leader. He died on September 30 1998.

APO 5.8.39 PO 6.4.40 FO 6.4.41 PO 16.10.42 FO 16.4.43 FL 16.10.44 FL 16.4.46 SL 1.7.54

DESMOND GERARD HEATH SPENCER HUGH SPEKE 90223

FL

Pilot

34114 British

SL

Pilot

British

266 Squadron

604 Squadron Born in London on March 18 1912, Spencer was educated at Harrow. On October 19 1932 he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Supplementary Reserve of the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry. He was in Gibraltar with the 2nd Battalion in 1933.

Speke was born in South Africa on April 17 1914. He had a twin sister and a brother. After the death of their parents the three returned to England to the care of relatives. Hugh Speke lived in Pigdon, Northumberland for a time. He joined 604 Squadron, AAF in 1937. He was called to fulltime service on August 24 1939 and was at RAF Hendon on September 1 1939.

Spencer transferred to the RAF on a short service commission in September 1933. On October 10 he was posted to 3 FTS, Grantham and with training completed, he joined 16 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Old Sarum on September 2 1934. Spencer was posted to 5 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Chakala, Rawalpindi on March 14 1935. The squadron was at Quetta when the earthquake came and Spencer was buried for a short time. Some 60 RAF men were killed and about 60 invalided home. At Risalpur the squadron took part in the Mohmand operations in 1935 and later the Hazara operations. Spencer was awarded the old India General Service medal and clasp. After operating from Miranshah in Waziristan, he was awarded the new India General Service Medal and clasp. On May 16 1937 Spencer joined the Air Staff at HQ RAF India. He went to No 1 (Indian) Group at Peshawar, controlling frontier operations. He was made an MBE (1.1.40) for operations in Waziristan in 1939. In August 1939 Spencer returned to the UK and joined the staff at 6 FTS, Little Rissington on the 28th. He was appointed to the Air Staff at HQ British Air Forces in France at Coulomiers on January 20 1940, for Squadron Leader Ops duties. Spencer returned to England on June 13 1940. He was attached to 7 OTU, Hawarden for a refresher course, from July 15 to 20, before joining 222 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey, as a supernumerary. Spencer moved to 266 Squadron at Wittering on July 25, again as a supernumerary, and took command on August 18. He was posted away on September 10 to 257 Squadron at Martlesham Heath, to command, but did not take up this appointment and was instead attached to HQ 12 Group on the 12th and then posted to HQ 13 Group next day, moving the same day to HQ 10 Group. From 1942 to 1944 Spencer was at Air HQ Eastern Mediterranean, as Group Captain Ops and in 1945 was SASO in Jerusalem. He was made a CBE (1.1.65) and retired from the RAF on March 22 1967 as a Group Captain. He died in 1995.

He was was detached from 604, then at North Weald, on December 6 1939, for night-flying training at Heathrow. He returned to Hendon for a course with the Blenheim Conversion Flight on December 14, rejoining 604 on the 17th. Speke was detached again from 604, on May 8 1940, this time to the School of Air Navigation at St Athan, for a short navigation course. The course ran until June 28 but Speke and three other fighter pilots were recalled to their squadrons on May 17. On August 24 he was captain of a Blenheim which crashed near Odiham during a night patrol, cause unknown. Speke and his gunner, Sergeant H J S Shirley, were unhurt. During the night of September 1/2 1940 Speke damaged a He 111, on December 12/13 he damaged a He 111 over Ringwood, flying with Sergeant A K Sandifer as his gunner. Speke received a Mention in Despatches in March 1941. In the early hours of May 4, Speke shot down a He 111, which crashed near Taunton. During the night of May 9/10 he damaged a He 111. On the night of July 7/8, flying with Sergeant Dawson as radar operator, Speke shot down a He 111, which crashed into the sea off Boscombe. Twenty-seven minutes later he shot down another He 111 near Lymington. Speke was killed on July 26 1941, when he crashed into Oare Hill, Pewsey, Wiltshire, in Beaufighter X 7548, whilst on an air test. His radar operator, Sergeant G L Dawson, was also killed. Speke was 27 and is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Dowlish Wake, Somerset. He was awarded the DFC (29.7.41), credited with destroying four and damaging at least two enemy aircraft at night. His brother, Major William Maitland Speke MC, was killed in action in Libya with 72 Field Regiment Royal Artillery on February 18 1942.

APO 22.9.33 PO 22.9.34 FO 22.4.36 FL 22.4.38 SL 1.3.40 WC 1.3.42 WC 1.10.46 GC 1.7.61

PO (AAF) 10.7.37 FO 24.8.39 FL 3.9.40

DOUGLAS JAMES SPENCE 42445

PO

Pilot

New Zealander

GORDON HAMILTON SPENCER

245 Squadron

54684 Born in Christchurch on August 26 1920, Spence worked for an insurance company. In early 1939 he applied for a short service commission in the RAF and after provisional acceptance he sailed for the UK in the RMS Rangitane on May 6.

Sgt

Pilot

British

504 Squadron

Spencer was educated at Aldershot County High School. He joined the RAF in January 1933 as an Aircraft Apprentice (566383) and passed out in December 1935, as a Fitter. He later applied for pilot training and was selected.

Spence began his ab initio course at 10 E&RFTS, Yatesbury on June 12 1939. After a short induction course at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, he was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton for No 40 Course, which ran from August 19 1939 to February 17 1940. With training completed, by April 15 Spence was with 10 B&GS, as a staff pilot. He was attached to 4 (C) FPP on May 17 and he then joined 245 Squadron at Hawkinge on June 13 1940, from where it was flying patrols over France. On the 20th Spence took part in a low-level attack on Rouen-Boos aerodrome, which left many enemy aircraft destroyed or damaged on the ground. In July 245 moved to Aldergrove, for the defence of Belfast, and remained there throughout the Battle of Britain.

With training completed, Spencer joined 87 Squadron at Debden on September 17 1938. He went to 2 FPP on March 20 1939 and was still with it at the outbreak of war. Spencer was briefly with 46 Squadron at Digby in September 1939, then joined 504 Squadron also at Digby, on September 16. From May 12 to 20 1940 504 Squadron was operating in France. On the 15th Spencer probably destroyed a Bf 109 over Gembloux. Promoted to Warrant Officer on October 1 1941, Spencer was commissioned in March 1944. He was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 18.3.44 FO 18.9.44 FL 18.3.46

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AUBREY SPIERS 749478

Sgt

WILLIAM PATERSON SPRENGER

Wop/AG

British

236 Squadron

C 895

Sgt

Observer

He was detached from the squadron to RAF Uxbridge from July 10 to 15, for a short R/T procedure course. On August 31 1940 Sprenger was shot down by Bf 109s, in combat over Cranbrook. He baled out, unhurt, and landed at Litte Bay Court, Ulcombe. His Hurricane, P 3858, crashed and burned out at Upper Street, Broomfield. On September 27 he made a forcedlanding at Kenley, after his aircraft was damaged in combat over North Kent. Sprenger was killed on November 26 1940, when he crashed beside Loch Lomond during an anti-aircraft co-operation flight, cause unknown. He is buried in Vale of Leven Cemetery, Bonhill, Dumbarton, Scotland.

British

235 Squadron

ROBERT LAWRENCE SPURDLE 44230

3 Squadron

Sprague, of Port Nelson, British Columbia, joined the RCAF on November 6 1939. He did his elementary flying training at EFTS, Calgary, moved to No1 FTS, Camp Borden on February 1 1940 and then to ATS at Trenton on May 21. Sprague was posted to the UK and joined 112 (RCAF) Squadron at High Post on September 10 1940, which served as a holding unit. He left the squadron on the 19th and two days later was at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge to convert to Hurricanes, after which he joined 3 Squadron at Castletown on October 5. He was posted away to Squires Gate on December 18, to join the newly-formed 96 Squadron. On February 6 1941 Sprague went to No 1 (RCAF) Squadron at Castletown, later re-numbered 401 Squadron. On July 31 he moved to 56 Squadron at Duxford. After rejoining 401 Squadron at Biggin Hill on September 19 1941, Sprague was shot down on November 22 and captured. He was freed in May 1945, returned to Canada and was released from the RCAF on August 23 as a Flight Lieutenant.

MERVYN HERBERT SPRAGUE 741141

Sgt

Pilot

British

Pilot

New Zealander

74 Squadron

Spurdle went to No 1 EFTS, Taieri for his ab initio course on October 21 and moved on to No 1 FTS, Wigram on December 18. He was selected for training as a light bomber pilot but was held back because of sickness and completed his training with No 13 (War) Course. On June 7 1940 Spurdle sailed for the UK in the RMS Rangitata and arrived on July 20. He went to No 1 Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting. Spurdle relinquished his RNZAF commission, as of July 20, and he was granted an RAF short service commission. He went to 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 4 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 74 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on the 21st. Spurdle damaged a He 111 on September 14. Whilst chasing Bf 109s on October 22, Spurdle’s Spitfire broke up in a high speed dive and he baled out, unhurt. Although attacked by enemy aircraft during the descent, he landed safely. The Spitfire, P 7364, crashed at Hadlow Place, near Tonbridge. In this action, Spurdle was slightly injured and was non-effective sick until the 27th. On October 29 1940 Spurdle claimed a Bf 109 as probably destroyed, on November 2 a Bf 109 destroyed, on the 14th a Ju 87 probably destroyed and two others damaged, on December 5 a Bf 109 destroyed, on March 1 1941 two Bf 109s destroyed and one damaged, on the 24th he shared in probably destroying a Ju 88 and on April 6 he claimed a Bf 110 probably destroyed and a Bf 109 damaged. On April 14 1941 Spurdle was posted to 91 Squadron at Hawkinge. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on May 7 and damaged another on the 18th. He left 91 on May 23, to join the MSFU at Speke. During his time with the unit, Spurdle made two trips to the USA, in the Camships Novelist and Eastern City In February 1942 Spurdle rejoined 91 Squadron and was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander in April. He destroyed a Bf 109 on July 25 and shot a FW 190 down into the sea on the 26th. He was awarded the DFC (14.8.42) and posted to Malta but was found to be ‘operationally tired’ and went instead to 116 Squadron at Heston on anti-aircraft cooperation. In November 1942 Spurdle sailed for New Zealand, via the USA, for attachment to the RNZAF. He was posted to Ohakea, where he started the Camera Gun Assessing School at 2 Observers’ Training School. In late May 1943 Spurdle was appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander in 16 Squadron, then preparing for its first overseas tour at Woodbourne On June 19 the squadron was flown to Santo, in the New Hebrides, in transport aircraft and began operations under American Interceptor Command. It moved to the Solomons in mid-July and began operations from Guadalcanal. On August 13 Spurdle destroyed a ‘Hap’ and on the 26th a ‘Zeke’. Relieved in mid-September 16 returned to New Zealand. Spurdle left for the UK in December, in the Umgeni, going via Melbourne, Ceylon, the Suez Canal and Gibraltar. He disembarked on March 26 1944. His attachment to the RNZAF ceased and he joined the newly-reformed 130 Squadron at Lympne on April 13. In early May he was posted to 80 Squadron at Hornchurch. Spurdle was appointed a Flight Commander on May 25 and took command of 80 on July 20. At the end of September 1944 the squadron crossed to the Continent and on October 8 it joined 122 Wing at Volkel, in Holland. On an offensive patrol on December 8, Spurdle damaged two Ju 188s, his final aerial encounter with the Luftwaffe. He was posted to HQ 83 Group on January 15 1945 and awarded a Bar to the DFC (26.1.45). Spurdle was given training in radio work and on March 24 he flew across the Rhine in

HENRY ARNOLD SPRAGUE Canadian

PO

Born in Wanganui on March 3 1918, Spurdle was at Wanganui Collegiate School from 1932 to 1934. In early 1939 he applied for a short service commission in the RNZAF, was provisionally accepted in July and reported to Rongotai for ground training on September 20. He was on the 11th Short Service Course, the last one of the scheme.

PO 1.5.42 FO 1.11.42 FL 1.5.44 PO (RAFVR) 1.7.46

Pilot

1 (RCAF) Squadron

During the period of the Battle, he flew twenty-one operational sorties, the first on August 12. Spiers was still with 236 Squadron on November 21 1940. He was released from the RAF as a Warrant Officer. Spiers died in 1988.

With training completed, Spires joined 235 Squadron at North Coates on March 9. He was flying with Pilot Officer E H McHardy of 248 Squadron as pilot and LAC Heavisides as gunner, when they shot down a Bf 110 three miles off Blankenberge, Belgium. He served with 235 Squadron in the Battle of Britain and is last mentioned in the squadron ORB on October 20 1940. Spires was awarded the DFM (17.6.41), as a Sergeant with 69 Squadron. Commissioned in May 1942, he was awarded the DFC (7.11.44), as a Flight Lieutenant at HQ RAF Benson. He was released from the RAF in 1946 and commissioned in the RAFVR. He was released from the RAFVR in 1947.

PO

Canadian

Sprenger was born at North Bay, Ontario on July 13 1911. He joined the RCAF on October 1 1938 and was with No 1 (RCAF) Squadron when it arrived in the UK on June 20 1940.

Spires joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (751252). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 4 B&GS, West Freugh on No 4 Air Observer Course, which ran from January 1 to March 9 1940.

C 1365

Pilot

Spiers joined the RAFVR in May 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and served with 236 Squadron throughout the Battle of Britain.

JOHN HENRY SPIRES 121239

FO

602 Squadron

Born on May 27 1910 in Richmond, Surrey, Sprague was educated at St Paul’s School. After leaving, he joined his father’s firm of chartered accountants, which had offices in the City, Richmond and High Wycombe. From May 13 1935 Sprague served in Class ‘F’ of the RAF Reserve (700120), as an Airman u/t Pilot. On May 14 1938 he joined the RAFVR and did his weekend flying at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield. Called to full-time service on September 1 1939, Sprague was posted to 4 EFTS, Brough on October 7. He went to 3 ITW, Hastings on November 6 and then to 14 FTS, Kinloss on February 5 1940, moving to Cranfield on April 18. Sprague joined 602 Squadron at Drem on June 18. He was shot down in combat with Bf 109s on August 25. He baled out, unhurt, and was rescued from the sea. His Spitfire, N 3226, crashed into the sea off Portland. On September 11 1940 Sprague was shot down and killed in combat with Bf 110s S of Selsey Bill. His Spitfire, N 3282, crashed into the Channel. Sprague’s body was washed ashore at Brighton on October 10. He is buried in St Andrew’s churchyard, Tangmere.

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The air and sea search for him was hampered by low cloud, poor visibility and a 20 ft swell. He drifted north and after 30 hours he was seen stumbling ashore near Garlieston, Wigtownshire. Squier was taken to a hospital at Stranraer, suffering from exposure and a compression fracture of the spine. His recovery took several months but in May 1960 he was back on test flying duties. Squier stopped test flying on December 31 1966 and retired from BAC and British Aerospace on December 31 1983. He was awarded the Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service in the Air in 1965. Squier died on January 30 2006.

a glider in the second airborne crossing, as OC three RAF radio teams. The gliders landed at Wesel with serious casualties and were relieved by the Army after five days. Spurdle was later with the 11th Armoured Division, working in a radio tank, controlling ‘cab rank’ fighter support. He was on the River Elbe when the war ended. On July 18 1945 Spurdle was posted to CGS, Catfoss for a Pilot Attack Instructors’ course. On the 21st he transferred to the RNZAF, relinquishing his RAF commission. He sailed for New Zealand in late September in the RMS Rangitata, the same ship that had taken him to the UK five years earlier. Spurdle went on to the Reserve on April 18 1946 as a Squadron Leader. He died in 1994.

PO 15.6.42 FO 15.12.42 FL 15.6.44 FO (RAFVR) 23.9.45 APO 20.9.39 PO 20.7.40 FO 20.10.41 FL 20.10.42

NOEL MIZPAH STANGER RICHARD ALFRED SPYER 745513

Sgt

Pilot

British

NZ 39943

Sgt

Observer

He was provisionally accepted for a short service commission in the RNZAF in April 1939 but the scheme was allowed to lapse and he was not called. Stanger volunteered for aircrew duties at the outbreak of war and reported, as a trainee pilot, to the Ground Training School at Weraroa on October 26 1939. He went to No 1 EFTS, Taieri on November 21 and moved to No 1 FTS, Wigram on January 15 1940. Things did not go well for him and Stanger ceased pilot training and remustered as an Airman u/t Observer. On February 13 he began a course at the Air Observers’ School, Ohakea, was awarded his brevet at the end of May, promoted to Sergeant and on June 7 he sailed in the RMS Rangitata for the UK, arriving there on July 20. Stanger went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting. He was sent to 17 OTU, Upwood on July 30 and joined 106 Squadron at Finningley on October 2 1940, a Hampden bomber unit. Nine days later he moved to 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton. On February 14 1941 Stanger was a member of the crew of Blenheim Z 5970, which took off on a night navigation exercise. The aircraft was under control but with engines misfiring badly and finally cutting out altogether. It did a gliding turn, straightened out, then lost height and crashed one mile N of Croxton. It had apparently run out of fuel. All three men on board were killed. Stanger is buried in St Mark’s churchyard, Bilton, Rugby.

Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 16 Course, which ran from November 6 1939 to May 11 1940. Spyer arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on the 18th, converted to Hurricanes, and then joined 111 Squadron at North Weald on the 25th. Spyer was attached to 607 Squadron at Usworth on the 31st, for further instruction on Hurricanes. This attachment became a permanent posting on June 2 1940. He went south with the squadron to Tangmere on September 8. On the 9th Spyer crashed at Stilstead Farm, East Peckham, during a combat with Bf 109s and Do 17s, in Hurricane P 2680, slightly wounded. On October 19 1940 Spyer was posted from 607 to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, for a posting to Malta. He embarked on the carrier HMS Argus at Glasgow on the 23rd, for the Mediterranean. On November 17 he was in the first flight of six Hurricanes to take off for Malta, led by Flight Lieutenant J A F MacLachlan. Spyer’s Hurricane, V 7413, ran out of fuel and he baled out into the sea. MacLachlan called in the Sunderland, which was leading them to Malta, and it landed and picked up Spyer. He joined 261 Squadron at Ta Kali. On March 22 1941 eight Hurricanes of 261 took off to meet ten Ju 88s approaching Grand Harbour, with a Bf 109 escort. In the ensuing engagement, five of the Hurricanes were shot down, including V 7672, flown by Spyer. All five pilots were lost. Spyer was 23. He is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 2, Column 1.

DONALD ARTHUR STANLEY 83271

JOHN WILLIAM COPOUS SQUIER Sgt

Pilot

British

235 Squadron

Stanger was born in Herbert, North Otago on December 24 1916. After leaving school, he was employed by a sheep farmer.

Spyer, of Worcester Park, Surrey, joined the RAFVR about March 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot, and carried out his prewar training at 15 E&RFTS, Redhill.

125762

New Zealander

607 Squadron

PO

Pilot

British

64 Squadron

Stanley, of Muswell Hill, Middlesex, joined the RAFVR about July 1939 as an Airman u/t Pilot (754842). Called up on September 1, he completed his elementary training at 12 EFTS, Wick and moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand, for No 48 Course, which ran from May 27 to August 10 1940. He was commissioned and arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden but, for some reason, he did not join 64 Squadron at Leconfield until late September.

64 Squadron

Squier was born on March 18 1920 at Chelmsford. He was educated by private tutor. He joined the RAFVR at Southend on April 19 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745766). Squier carried out his weekend flying at 34 E&RFTS, Rochford. Called up at the outbreak of war, he was posted to 4 ITW, Bexhill on October 30 1939.

Stanley flew his first operational sortie on October 2. He was still with 64 on November 1 1940 but later in the month he joined 222 Squadron at Coltishall and moved on to 611 Squadron at Rochford on December 14. Stanley was killed on February 25 1941, as a Pilot Officer with 611 Squadron, aged 19. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 34.

Squier went to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 17 Course, which began on December 9. He fell sick and was transferred to No 18 Course, which ended on June 29 1940. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on July 6 and after he had converted to Spitfires, he joined 64 Squadron at Kenley on the 28th. Squier made a forced-landing at Great Cauldham, Capel-leFerne on August 8, possibly the victim of a surprise attack by Hauptmann Trautloft of 111/JG 51. He was admitted to Canterbury Hosptial, with injuries including a fractured right arm and jaw, as well as shock. Transferred to Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, Squier underwent plastic surgery there, becoming a Guinea Pig. He was discharged from hospital on November 14 1940 and rejoined 64 Squadron, then at Hornchurch. Squier was posted to 72 Squadron at Coltishall on the 22nd, joined 603 Squadron at Drem on December 20 and moved to 141 Squadron at Gravesend on the 30th. Squier left 141 on February 27 1941 to become a test pilot. He was at 5 MU, Kemble until April 3 1941, at 33 OTU, Lyneham until March 20 1942 and at 48 MU, Hawarden until May 12 1943. Whilst there, he was commissioned from Warrant Officer in June 1942. Squier was at 51 MU, Lichfield from August 12 1945 until August 30 1946, when he was released from the RAF, as a Flight Lieutenant. On September 1 1946 he became a test pilot with English Electric and later BAC. He ejected from the first two-seater Lightning on October 1 1959 at 1.7 Mach at 40,000 feet, the first supersonic ejectee. Squier went down into the sea and managed to get into his dinghy.

PO 10.8.40

DOUGLAS OWEN STANLEY NZ 39944

Sgt

Pilot

New Zealander

151 Squadron

Stanley was born at Tirau on July 12 1916. He learned to fly privately in 1938 and in March 1939 he enrolled in the Civil Reserve of Pilots, carrying out the required training at the Waikato Aero Club, Hamilton. At the outbreak of war, Stanley volunteered for service and reported to the Ground Training School, Weraroa on October 20 1939. A month later he was posted to 2 EFTS, New Plymouth, moving on to 2 FTS, Woodbourne on January 15 1940. Awarded his flying badge on April 23, Stanley completed the course at the end of June and sailed for the UK in the RMS Rangitane on July 12, arriving on August 27. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, to await a posting. Stanley arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 11 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 151 Squadron at Digby on the 30th.

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He flew captured Bf 109s, Bf 110s, Fw 190s and He 111s on familiarisation exercises with USAF bombers. Flying from Thorney Island prior to the invasion, he flew enemy aircraft over southern England to familiarise troops with their appearance. In October 1944 Staples joined 4 ADF at Clifton, near York. He was later temporarily grounded, spending a month in hospital with vertigo. Released in September 1945, as a Flight Lieutenant, Staples rejoined the RAFVR in 1947 and flew again from Fair Oaks until disbandment in 1952. He died in 1992.

In the evening of October 26 1940 Stanley was one of a group of pilots, practicing night circuits and landings at Coleby Grange, a satellite of Digby. At 20.40 hrs he took off and crashed 500 yards beyond the windward boundary of the airfield. The Hurricane, V 7434, caught fire. Stanley was taken from the wreckage and admitted to Lincoln County Hospital, where he died the same night. Stanley is buried in Scopwick Burial Ground, Lincolnshire. A local remembrance of him is to be found at Achilles Point, Auckland, New Zealand. A seat there bears the inscription ‘Presented to the citizens of Auckland by Private J E (Ted) Scherer in memory of his friend Sergeant-Pilot Douglas O Stanley, of Matamata, who lost his life in England 26 October 1940’. A second seat there had this inscription ‘A H Scherer Esq. In fulfillment of his son’s wish. Private J E (Ted) Scherer Killed in action in Italy 10 April 1945’.

PO 28.2.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 28.2.44 FO (RAFVR) 13.8.47

MICHAEL EDMUND STAPLES 83242

PO

Pilot

British

609 Squadron

NOEL KARL STANSFELD 42272

PO

Pilot

Canadian

242 and 229 Squadrons

Staples, of Kent, joined the RAFVR about November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742463).

Born in Edmonton, Alberta in 1915, Stansfeld joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 1 1939 at 3 E&RFTS, Brough.

Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training, was commissioned and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 23 1940. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 609 Squadron at Middle Wallop on July 8. On August 12 Staples claimed a Bf 110 destroyed, on the 13th destroyed a Ju 87 and damaged another, on September 7 he got a probable Bf 110 and damaged two others, on the 15th shared a Do 17, on the 24th destroyed a Do 17, probably destroyed Bf 110s on the 25th and 27th and got a probable Bf 109 on the 30th. On October 7 Staples was shot down in flames in a surprise attack by enemy fighters over Yeovil. He baled out, wounded, and was admitted to Blandford Hospital. His Spitfire, N 3231, crashed at Shotcombe Farm, Wynford Eagle. He did not return to 609. Staples was killed on November 9 1941, as a Flying Officer with 604 Squadron. He crashed coming in to land at night at Colerne. He was 24 and is buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery, Woking.

Stansfeld moved on to 8 FTS, Montrose for No 12 Course, which ran from July 10 to December 9 1939. With training completed, he arrived at 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on December 28 1939. He converted to Hurricanes and joined 242 Squadron at Church Fenton on February 3 1940. On a patrol over France on May 22, he shared in the destruction of a Hs 126. Over Dunkirk on May 31, he destroyed a Bf 110 and on June 1 he probably destroyed a Ju 87. Stansfeld went to France with the squadron on June 8, destroyed a Bf 109 on the 14th and on the day the squadron was withdrawn, the 18th, he destroyed a He 111. Orders came in July that a pilot from the squadron was to be sent to a Fighter Navigation course. Stansfeld was attached to the School of Air Navigation, St Athan from August 2 to 25 on this course and he then returned to 242. On August 30 he destroyed a He 111, on September 7 claimed a Do 17 destroyed, on the 15th another Do 17 and a He 111 and on the 27th a Ju 88 probably destroyed. Stansfeld was posted to 229 Squadron on September 29. He was shot down the next day, in combat with Bf 109s over Edenbridge, and baled out, wounded. His Hurricane, N 2652, crashed at Ightham Place. This was his first and only sortie with 229 Squadron. Stansfeld was awarded the DFC (8.10.40). He probably did not fly again operationally before he returned to Canada to be a flying instructor. He was back in the UK in 1943 and 1944, transferred to the RCAF on February 12 1945 and served in RAF Transport Command, ferrying troops to and from India. After the war Stansfeld contracted tuberculosis and was invalided out of the RCAF in 1947. He died in 1995.

PO 16.6.40 FO 16.6.41

ROBERT CHARLES JOHN STAPLES 48471

Pilot

British

British

72 Squadron

He began his elementary flying course at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell on October 17 1936, moved on to 6 FTS, Netheravon on February 6 1937 and with training completed, he joined 72 Squadron at Church Fenton on September 4 1937. Staples was attached to 609 Squadron at Drem from 72 Squadron, from November 4 to December 10 1939. He was still with 72 Squadron in early July 1940. On August 6 he crashed on landing from a routine patrol, writing off Spitfire L 1078, cause unknown. On September 27 Staples probably destroyed a Ju 88. He was involved in a mid-air collision with Pilot Officer N Sutton on October 5. He managed to return to base but Sutton was killed. On November 27 Staples shared in damaging a Bf 110. On March 26 1941 Staples was posted to 58 OTU, Grangemouth, as an instructor. He was with 65 Squadron at Westhampnett briefly in November 1941 but was then sent to 2 CFS, Dalcross on November 23, for an instructor’s course. Staples was commissioned in January 1942 and posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on the 21st. He moved to 3(P) AFU, Long Newton on July 29. From May 10 1943 he was with 1539 BAT Flight at South Cerney, and later Bibury. On June 19 1944 Staples went to 1533 BAT Flight at Church Lawford and stayed there until October. He transferred to the Administrative and Special Duties Branch and became involved with mechanical transport. Staples was posted to Singapore in late 1945 and remained in the Far East until returning to the UK to retire from the RAF, which he did on March 26 1948, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died in 1986.

LIONEL STAPLES Sgt

Pilot

Born on March 13 1914, Staples went to Weymouth Technical High School. He joined the RAF in January 1930, as an Aircraft Apprentice (564405) and passed out in December 1932, as a Fitter, Aero Engines. He later applied for pilot training and was selected.

APO 24.6.39 PO 27.12.39 FO 27.12.40 FL 27.12.41

117410

Sgt

85, 242 and 151 Squadrons

Staples was born in Woking on September 22 1915 and educated at Horsell School there. After leaving, he was a maintenance engineer in a laundry. On November 25 1938 Staples joined the RAFVR in London, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742565) and began his weekend flying at 18 E&RFTS, Fair Oaks, on Tiger Moths, Hinds and Audaxes. Called up on September 1 1939, Staples went to 4 ITW, Bexhill in November, moved to 6 EFTS, Sywell on March 14 1940 and on to 8 FTS, Montrose for No 19 Course, from May 6 to August 16. With the course completed, Staples arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 17 and moved to 7 OTU, Hawarden on the 19th. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 85 Squadron at Croydon on September 4, moved to 242 Squadron at Coltishall on the 13th and then to 151 Squadron at Kenley on the 21st. The squadron went over to night-fighting in November 1940 and at the end of the month it began to convert to Defiants. On April 10 1941, in Defiant N 3479, Staples shot down a Ju 88 near Birmingham at 2.00 am. The aircraft, of II/KG 51, crashed at Preston Hill Farm, Hitchin and the crew of four were captured. On August 23 1941, with his tour completed, Staples was posted to 60 OTU, East Fortune, as an instructor on Masters. He went to CFS for a course on January 4 1942 and returned to East Fortune on February 16. Commissioned at the end of the month, Staples rejoined 151 Squadron, then with Mosquitos at Wittering, on April 14 1942 but stayed only until June, when he was posted to Collyweston, as a Beam Approach Training instructor. Staples joined 1426 EAC Flight (Enemy Aircraft Circus) at Duxford on March 11 1943.

PO 12.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 12.1.44 FL 1.9.45

BASIL GERALD STAPLETON 41879

FO

Pilot

South African

603 Squadron

Stapleton was born in Durban on May 12 1920. He was educated at Edward VI School, Totnes, Devon. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on January 23 1939 at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham. He moved on to 13 FTS, Drem for No 1 Course, which ran from April 15 to October 21 1939.

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Starr is buried in Radnor Street Cemetery, Swindon, Wiltshire. His brother, Wing Commander N J Starr DFC*, was killed in an incident over the English Channel on January 8 1945. He was a pilot, serving with 276 Squadron. He is buried in Dunkirk Cemetery.

With training completed, Stapleton joined a detachment of 219 Squadron at Redhill on October 21. The attachment ceased and he went to 11 Group Pool, St Athan on the 23rd. After converting to Hurricanes, Stapleton joined 32 Squadron at Biggin Hill on November 20 1939 and then joined 603 Squadron at Prestwick on December 16. He converted to Spitfires on the squadron. On the 22nd, after landing at Prestwick, he tipped Spitfire K 9997 on to its nose, in the soft ground. On January 14 1940 Stapleton joined the 603 detachment at Montrose, for convoy patrols. On April 26 he baled out of his Spitfire at night, after his undercarriage had been damaged, attempting a night-landing. On June 5 Stapleton made a crash-landing at Turnhouse, on his fourth attempt to land after his flaps and then brakes failed, in Spitfire N 3236. On July 3 1940 Stapleton shared in the destruction of a Ju 88, on the 20th he shared a Do 17, on August 29 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another and on the 31st he probably destroyed another. On September 5 he shot down a Bf 109, which made a forced-landing at Love’s Farm, Winchet Hill, Marden. The pilot was unhurt, Oberleutnant Franz von Werra of Stab II/JG 3, more widely-known as ‘the one that got away’, from a book and film of the same title. In this engagement Stapleton probably destroyed another Bf 109. On the 7th Stapleton made a forced-landing at Sutton Valence, after a combat with enemy fighters over South London, in Spitfire N 3196, unhurt. On September 11 he probably destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged a Bf 109, on the 15th destroyed a Do 17 and damaged another Bf 109, on the 17th he got a probable Bf 109, on the 30th and October 15 he destroyed two more, on the 17th and 20th he probably destroyed another two Bf 109s and he had his final victory on November 11, another Bf 109. Stapleton was awarded the DFC (15.11.40). Tour-expired, Stapleton was posted to No 4 Aircraft Delivery Flight on March 27 1941. He commanded 611 Squadron at Rochford from May 18 to June 21, when he was posted away to join the MSFU. On January 14 1942 Stapleton was posted to 257 Squadron at Honiley, as a Flight Commander. At the end of his second tour, he went to 2 ADU on April 6 1943, remaining with it until September 1, when he was posted to Kenley, as Sector Gunnery Instructor. On July 25 1944 he joined 83 GSU and on August 26 he was given command of 247 Squadron in France. On December 23 1944 Stapleton was strafing a train, when the locomotive exploded. Pieces of debris punctured the radiator of his Typhoon. He headed for the Allied lines but had to make a forced-landing before reaching them. He was made a PoW and spent the final months of the war in Stalag Luft 1 at Barth. Stapleton was freed, returned to England and was released from the RAF on January 31 1946, as a Squadron Leader. He was awarded the DFC (Dutch) (1.1.46). He returned to South Africa but went back to England in 1994 and died on April 13 2010.

APO 16.3.34 PO 16.3.35 FO 16.10.36 FL 16.10.38 SL 1.6.40

CHARLES MICHAEL STAVERT 42538 PO

Pilot

British

1 and 504 Squadrons

Stavert was born on August 10 1921. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on June 26 1939. With training completed, he arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge in early April 1940 and after converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to No 1 Squadron in France on the 27th. On May 10 Stavert shared in the destruction of a Bf 110, on the 18th he destroyed a Do 17 and a He 111, then ran out of fuel and made a forced-landing in a ploughed field. On the 19th he damaged a He 111. He returned to England when the squadron was withdrawn on June 17 1940. On August 16 Stavert claimed a He 111 destroyed, on the 18th he shared a Do 17, on September 6 he destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged a Bf 109. He made his last flight with No 1 on September 18, a patrol. He joined 504 Squadron at Hendon on the 21st and flew his first sortie on the 24th, a patrol. On the 27th he damaged a Bf 110. He was still with the squadron on November 2 1940. Stavert was awarded the AFC (1.6.53) and retired from the RAF on August 10 1964 as a Squadron Leader. APO 19.8.39 PO 28.2.40 FO 28.2.41 FL 28.2.42 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.7.53

DENNIS JAMES STEADMAN 62661

Sgt

Pilot

British

54, 245 and 46 Squadrons

Steadman joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748599). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 4 1940. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 18. His first flight was made on the 20th, a sector recco. Steadman moved to 245 Squadron at Aldergrove on September 27, for further training, He was posted from 245 to 46 Squadron at Stapleford Tawney on October 18 1940. Commissioned in March 1941, Steadman was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. PO 12.3.41 FO 12.3.42 FL 12.3.43

APO 1.4.39 PO 21.10.39 FO 21.10.40 FL 21.10.41

MICHAL JAN STEBOROWSKI 76794

PO

Pilot

Polish

238 Squadron

HAROLD MORLEY STARR 34181

SL

Pilot

British

245 and 253 Squadrons

Steborowski arrived in England in early 1940 and was commissioned in the RAFVR on March 29. From June 1 1940 he was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting.

Born in Swindon on September 8 1914, Starr was educated at Clarence Street School and after the family moved to Bristol, at Cotham Secondary Modern School. In March 1934 he joined the RAF on a short service commission. After completing a short disciplinary course at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, he was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on April 3 1934.

He went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum, for the 1st Polish Pilots’ Course, which ran from July 5 to 13 1940, for testing and grading. Steborowski arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 14. After converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 238 Squadron at Middle Wallop on August 3 and joined it there on the 5th. He probably destroyed a Bf 110 on the 8th. He was shot down and killed on the 11th. His Hurricane, P 3819, crashed

With training completed, Starr joined 14 (Army Cooperation) Squadron at Old Sarum on March 4 1935, flying Fairey Gordons. On June 5 1936 he experienced engine failure in Audax K 2028 and crashed at South Marston, near Swindon. Starr was seriously injured and did not return to flying until June 28 1937, when he joined 59 Squadron at Old Sarum. He moved to 2 Squadron at Hawkinge on January 19 1938. In May 1939 Starr went to a staff job at RAF Uxbridge but on November 3 1939 he joined the staff at No 2 School of Army Co-operation, Andover. He was posted to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 1 1940, for a refresher course and after converting to Hurricanes, he went to 245 Squadron at Aldergrove on the 21st, as a supernumerary Squadron Leader. Starr was given command of 253 Squadron at Turnhouse on August 10. The squadron moved south to Kenley on the 29th and the next day Starr’s aircraft was damaged in combat over Redhill. He returned to base, unhurt. On August 31 1940 Starr was shot down by enemy fighters during an interception patrol. He baled out and was machine-gunned by a Bf 109 on his way down. He fell dead at Hammill Brickworks near Eastry. His Hurricane, L 1830, is believed to have crashed near Grove Ferry.

into the sea off Portland. Steborowski was awarded the KW (10.9.41). He held the rank of Acting Flying Officer at the time of his death. He was 31. He is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt. PO 29.3.40

RODNEY MURREY STEELE 139199

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

235 Squadron

Steele joined the RAFVR about July 1939, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG (755484). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on September 4 1940. Steele was posted with his flight to RAF Aldergrove on November 19 1940, where it

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combined with a flight of 236 Squadron, to reform 272 Squadron on the 21st. He flew his first sortie with the new squadron on the 24th. Commissioned in December 1942, Steele was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on February 8 1986.6.

JAN STEFAN

PO 15.2.42 FO 15.6.43 FL 15.12.44

He served as a fighter pilot in the Czechoslovak Air Force. When the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939 the Czechoslovak Air Force was disbanded and he was demobilised on the 17th. He escaped to Poland and reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate at Krakow. He went with other Czech airmen to Gdynia and boarded a ship which took him to France. On arrival in France Czech airmen were required to join the French Foreign Legion for a five year period with the agreement that, should war be declared, they would be transferred to French military units. Stefan was placed at the Legion base at Fort Saint Jean, Marseilles. On July 12 he went, by ship, to Oran, Algeria and the Legion Training Camp at Sidibel-Abbes, but war was declared and he was transferred to l’Armee de l’Air and assigned to 572 Escadrille, Regionalle de Chasse, at Blida airbase for retraining on to French equipment. He completed training and was posted to Groupe de Chasse I/10, equipped with MS406C fighter aircraft and based at Oran. Despite the rapid advance of the German forces in France, the unit remained at Oran to counter the perceived threat of attack from the Italian Regia Aeronautica. After the French collapse Stefan was at the Djedeida airbase, Tunis and, with the other Czechoslovak airmen of the unit, was released from French service. He travelled to Casablanca and boarded the Gib el Dersa bound for Gibraltar. He transferred to the Cidonia which took him to Liverpool where he arrived on July 16 1940. He went to the Czechoslovak transit camp at Cholmondeley and was then transferred to the Czechoslovak Depot at Cosford. He was accepted into the RAFVR. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge from Cosford on September 21 and, after converting to Hurricanes, he joined No 1 Squadron at Wittering on October 14. On November 20, shortly after taking off from Wittering, the engine of his Hurricane V 7099,started to smoke. He made a forced landing near the airfield. Stefan was uninjured but there was underside damage to the aircraft. On December 10 1940, after landing at Luton, his Hurricane got stuck in soft ground causing minor damage. Stafan was shot down on March 19 1941 over Dungeness. With two other 1 Sqn Hurricanes he was attacked by two Bf 109s. His Hurricane, Z 2810, was damaged and he made a forced landing near Udimore, Sussex. He was uninjured. Stefan left 1 Squadron on July 29 and joined 65 Squadron on March 13 1942. He then went to 313 Squadron. He returned to 1 Squadron on April 22. Stefan completed his tour on July 21 when he left the Squadron for a rest period. He was posted to 312 Squadron on November 27. Stefan had health problems and, on March 10 1943, he was sent on sick leave. On March 24 he returned to operational flying duties but two days later he was transferred to 57 OTU, at Eshott, as a flying instructor. He also had to attend an RAF Medical Board, regarding his health. After March 26, Stefan did no more operational flying . He carried out duties as a flying instructor and then became a controller at various locations. He was released from the RAF after the war and returned to Czechoslovakia. Following the communist takeover, in February 1948, Czech personnel with wartime RAF service were regarded as tainted. Stefan escaped to the American Zone in Germany and later emigrated to Canada.

184904

F/Sgt

Pilot

British

19 Squadron

Steere was born on February 7 1914 and he was educated at Oldershaw Secondary School, Wallasey. He joined the RAF at Halton in September 1930, as an Aircraft Apprentice (564959). Steere signed on for twelve years service, on reaching the age of eighteen on February 7 1932 and he passed out as a Metal Rigger on August 18 1933, with the rank of Leading Aircraftsman. After applying for pilot training and being selected, Steere began his flying course on November 25 1935. He passed out as a Sergeant-Pilot on August 22 1936. On March 16 1937 he was confirmed as a Sergeant Metal Rigger Group 1. An RAF tradesman who had trained as a pilot was reckoned to be on flying duties for three years before returning to his basic trade. By June 13 1939, when Steere was promoted to Flight Sergeant, the reversion to the basic trade plan had been dropped, probably in view of the strong likelihood of war. At the outbreak of hostilities, Steere was with 19 Squadron at Duxford. On May 11 1940 Steere shared in the destruction of a Ju 88, the squadron’s first victory. Over Dunkirk on the 26th, he destroyed a Ju 87, on the 27th shared in probably destroying a Do 17, on the 28th destroyed a Bf 109 and on June 1 he probably destroyed a Do 17 and shared in the destruction of a Bf 109. He was awarded the DFM (25.6.40). On August 19 Steere shared in the destruction of a Bf 110, on September 9 he claimed a Bf 110 probably destroyed, on the 15th a Do 17 and a Bf 109 destroyed, on the 18th he shared in the destruction of a He 111 and a Ju 88, on the 27th he destroyed a Bf 109 and on November 28 he destroyed another Bf 109. On December 8 1940 Steere was posted to CFS, Upavon for an instructors’ course, after which he instructed at 8 FTS, Montrose. Commissioned in June 1941, he joined 627 Squadron at Oakington at its formation on November 12 1943, to operate in Mosquitos on Pathfinder duties. Steere was killed on June 9 1944, as a Flight Lieutenant with 627, aged 30. He was shot down over Rennes and is buried in St Erblon Communal Cemetery, France. An award of the DFC (23.6.44) was gazetted after his death. Younger brother of J Steere. PO 26.6.41 FO 1.4.42 FL 1.4.43

JACK STEERE 47746

F/Sgt

Pilot

British

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

1 Squadron

Stefan was born at Zaluzi, Beroun on April 21 1914.

HARRY STEERE 46016

Sgt

72 Squadron

Born on January 16 1911, Steere was educated at Wallasey Grammar School. He joined the RAF at Halton in September 1927, as an Aircraft Apprentice (561914). After passing out in August 1930, as a Rigger, he was posted to RAF Felixstowe. In 1932 Steere served with the aircraft carrier HMS Glorious.

PO 16.10.44 FO 16.2.45

STEFAN STEGMAN He applied for pilot training and in 1934 was posted to 4 FTS, Abu Sueir. With the course completed, he joined 23 Squadron at Biggin Hill in 1935. Steere served with 41 Squadron at Sheik Othman, Aden in 1936 and joined 72 Squadron at Tangmere at its formation on March 22 1937. Still with 72 Squadron on December 7 1939, he shared in the destruction of two He 111s SE of Montrose.He took part in squadron operations over Dunkirk in May/June 1940. On July 1 Steere shared in the destruction of a He 59, on August 31 he damaged a Do 17, on September 1 he probably destroyed a Bf 109, on the 2nd he destroyed a Bf 110 and damaged another, on the 23rd he probably destroyed a Bf 109, on the 29th he damaged another, on October 11 he destroyed a Bf 109 and on November 9 he shared in destroying a He 111. From November 26 until December 24 1940 Steere was at CFS, Uapvon, for an instructor’s course on Masters and Tutors. He was promoted to Warrant Officer on April 1 1941 and commissioned in January 1942. He later instructed at CFS and was awarded the AFC (13.6.46). Steere retired from the RAF on July 16 1961 as a Squadron Leader. He was the elder brother of H Steere. He died in 1998.

76711

PO 5.1.42 FO 1.10.42 FL 5.1.44 FL 1.9.45 SL 1.7.54

PO 24.1.40 PO 1.3.41 FO 1.3.42 FL 1.3.43

PO

Pilot

Polish

111 and 229 Squadrons

Born on October 15 1910, Stegman arrived in England in late 1939 and was commissioned in the RAFVR at RAF Eastchurch in January 1940. From June 1 he was with the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool. Stegman went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum for the 4th Polish Pilots’ Course, which ran from August 12 to 19, for testing and grading. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 19 and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 111 Squadron at Drem on September 10. He moved to 229 Squadron at Northolt on September 26 1940. Stegman was posted to the newly-formed 316 Squadron at Pembrey on March 22 1941. Tour-expired, he went to 58 OTU, Grangemouth on November 28 1941, as an instructor. He rejoined 316, then at Heston, on May 15 1942. He was awarded the KW (15.11.42). Stegman was appointed a Flight Commander on March 14 1943. He was shot down in combat over the sea near the Belgian coast on June 17 1943, in Spitfire BR 143. His body was washed up on July 3 and he is buried in Ostende Communal Cemetery. Stegman was awarded a Bar to the KW (20.10.43).

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JOSEF STEHLIK 104693

Sgt

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

Stehlik was placed on ‘waiting leave’ on June 1 and was dismissed from the Air Force on September 1. Due to his wartime service with the RAF he was arrested and held in detention for a year. The case against Stehlik was dismissed, due to lack of evidence, but, nevertheless, he was demoted in rank and only permitted to do manual work Stehlik died on May 30 1991 in Slavicin, Czechoslovakia.

312 Squadron

Stehlik was born in Pikarec, Czechoslovakia on March 23 1915.

PO 6.8.41 FO 6.8.42 FL 6.8.43

On completion of his schooling he trained as an electrician in Tisnov but always aspired to become a pilot. He volunteered to join the Czechoslovak Air Force and, on October 1 1935 he reported to the 5th Air Regiment, at Brno, where he was assigned for aircraft mechanic training with the 83rd Bomber Squadron. On completion of this training, in 1936, he was posted to the 1st Aviation Regiment, at Prague-Kbely, for pilot and NCO training after which he was transferred to the Military Aviation Academy, at Hradec Kralove, for fighter pilot training. He graduated on July 15 1937 and was posted to the 39th Fighter Squadron of the 3rd Air Regiment, based at Piestany, Slovakia. When a pilot training school was formed at Spisska Nova Ves, as part of the ‘1000 pilots for the Republic’ initiative, he was sent there as an Instructor. When the Germans took over Czechoslovakia, on March 15 1939, Slovakia became a ‘puppet state’, and Stehlik was returned to Czechoslovakia. The Czech Air Force was disbanded and he was demobilised two days afterwards. With the help of Svaz Ietcu (the Airmen’s Association of Czechoslovakia) he attempted to escape to Poland. His first attempt failed but his second was successful. He travelled to Ostrava and, with the arranged assistance of railway workers, was smuggled aboard a coal train, on May 5, This took him to Poland. He reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate, in Krakow and, after a short stay, travelled by train to Gdynia where he boarded the Kastelholm, bound for Calais. On arrival in France, Czech airmen were required to join the French Foreign Legion for a five year period with the agreement that, should war be declared, they would be transferred to French military units. Stehlik was placed at the Legion barracks at Nanterre, near Paris, awaiting transfer to the training base at Sidi-bel-Abbes, Algeria but, before he could be transferred, war was declared and he was sent to l’Armee de l’Air at Dugny, near Paris. On October 11 he was assigned to CIC Chartres for retraining to French equipment. Following training he was posted to GCIII/3, based at Toul, which was equipped with Ms406C fighter aircraft. At the end of May 1940 the unit was re-equipped with Dewoitine Dw520c fighters. On the May 12 1940 he shared a Bf 110 and two He 111s, on the 19th he destroyed a Do 17 and shared a Hs 126, on June 5 he shared a Do 17 and on the 6th he destroyed a Bf 110. With the rapid advance of the German forces, GCIII/3 was constantly retreating south through France. By June 20 the unit was at Perpignan, in south west France, from where it was forced to fly to Maison Blanche, Algeria and, by the end of June, it was at Relizane, Algeria. The Czechoslovak airmen of the unit were released from French service and travelled, by train for four days to Casablanca, where they boarded ship bound for Gibraltar. Here they boarded the David Livingstone, arriving in Cardiff on August 5. Stehlik went to the Czech transit camp, at Cholmondeley and, in July, transferred to the Czech Airmen’s Depot at Cosford. He joined the RAFVR (787701) on August 14. On September 5 he joined 312 Squadron at Duxford where he converted to Hurricanes. On September 26 the Squadron moved to Speke to defend Liverpool and its docks. On October 8 he shared a Ju 88. He shared a Ju 88 on March 14 1941, probably destroyed a Bf 109E on June 18, damaged a Bf 109E on July 8 and probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 10th. On October 20 1941 he was posted to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course and was then posted as an instructor, on December 13 1941, to 9 SFTS at Hullavington. On February 10 1942 Stehlik was posted, as an instructor, to 31 EFTS at De Winton airbase, Canada, and then, on October 28, to 34 EFTS, Medicine Hat. On April 19 1943 he returned to 312 Squadron. On August 7 1943, during an escort of Mitchell and Boston bombers to Cherbourg, Stehlik was injured. His Spitfire BM 322 suffered an engine failure and he had to force land at Tapwell Farm, near Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight. Stehlik suffered injuries to a leg. On January 31 1944 Stehlik volunteered for operational duties on the Eastern Front in Russia. On February 21, together with twenty other volunteer Czechoslovak RAF pilots, he sailed from Glasgow, aboard the Riena del Pacifico bound for Gibraltar and then on to Egypt. They then travelled overland through Palestine, Syria and Iraq to Tehran from where they were flown to Ivanovo airfield, east of Moscow. Here Stehlik was retrained on to Lavochkin La-5 fighter aircraft and was then posted to the 1st Czechoslovak Fighter Regiment. On September 19 he destroyed at Ju 88 and shared a Ju 87, both near Piestany, Czechoslovakia. On the ground he destroyed three aircraft, twelve military trucks, two military cars and a railway locomotive. On December 19 1944 he was appointed commander of the 2nd Czechoslovak Fighter Regiment which was then based at Balice, Poland. He returned to Czechoslovakia on July 1 1945. Stehlik was released from the RAF after the war as a Flight Lieutenant. He remained in the Czechoslovak Air Force, with the rank of Staff Captain, and was assigned to Hradec Kralove, to re-establish the Military Aviation Academy. Following the communist takeover of Czechoslovakia, in February 1948, the Czech Air Force was disbanded.

DAVID STEIN 84299

PO

Pilot

British

263 Squadron

Stein joined the RAFVR about August 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (754919). Called up on September 1, he carried out his elementary training at 12 EFTS, Wick and moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand for No 47 Course, which ran from April 29 to July 25 1940. Stein joined ‘B’ Flight of 263 Squadron at Grangemouth on August 1, direct from 5 FTS. He was on a routine training flight on the 24th, when his aircraft caught fire. He baled out over Grangemouth Docks and was arrested on landing and later released. On September 5 Stein arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, for further training. He rejoined 263 on the 13th He was killed on October 30 1941. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 30. PO 27.7.40 FO 27.7.41

JAMES STENHOUSE 53020

Sgt

Pilot

British

43 Squadron

Stenhouse joined 603 Squadron AAF in 1939, as an Aircrafthand (803328). Called up on August 24 1939, he later remustered as an Airman u/t Pilot. He completed his training at 9 FTS, Hullavington on No 20 Course, which ran from June 9 to September 7 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 9 and after converting to Hurricanes, Stenhouse joined 43 Squadron at Usworth on September 28 1940. Whilst with 43 he flew three operational sorties, two on October 13 and another on the 28th. In early November he was posted to 73 Squadron and he was with it when it left Debden on November 9 1940 for Birkenhead, for embarkation for the Middle East. No further service details are known for Stenhouse, except that he was commissioned on June 27 1943. PO 27.6.43

HARBOURNE MACKAY STEPHEN 78851

PO

Pilot

British

74 Squadron

Stephen was born in Elgin, Scotland on April 18 1916 and educated at Shrewsbury. His first job was copy boy with Allied Newspapers and later he moved to the advertisement staff of the Evening Standard. Stephen joined the RAFVR in April 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740095) and learned to fly at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham. Having achieved the required standard and number of flying hours, Stephen was offered the chance to train with the regular RAF for six months and was given six months leave of absence from his job. He began training at 11 Group Fighter Pool at St Athan in early September 1939 and after converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to 605 Squadron at Tangmere on the 20th, as a Sergeant-Pilot. On March 28 1940 Stephen was flying in Yellow Section when a He 111 was sighted, 605’s first encounter with the Luftwaffe. The section leader damaged the bomber and 43 Squadron later shot it down. Commissioned in April, Stephen was posted to 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on the 7th and joined it on the 10th. Over Dunkirk on May 24, he shared in destroying a Hs 126 and a Do 17, on the 26th shared another Hs 126 and on the 27th destroyed a Bf 109 and shared a Do 17. On July 28 Stephen damaged a Bf 109, on August 11 he destroyed a Bf 109, probably destroyed two Bf 109s and two Bf 110s and damaged a Bf 109 and a Bf 110, on the 13th he probably destroyed a Do 17, on September 11 destroyed a Ju 88 and damaged a Bf 109, on October 1 damaged a He 111 and on the 5th shared a Do 17. Stephen claimed a Bf 109 destroyed and probably another on October 20, a Bf 109 destroyed on the 27th, three Ju 87s destroyed on November 14, a Bf 109 damaged on the 15th, two Bf 109s shared on the 17th and 30th, a Bf 109 probably destroyed on December 2 and two Bf 109s destroyed and another shared on the 5th. He was awarded the DFC (27.8.40), a Bar to the DFC (15.11.40) and the DSO (24.12.40).

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destroyed a Bf 109 and shared another and on this day he was shot down and baled out into the sea. He was picked up by a rescue launch. On October 13 he destroyed a Ju 88 and a Mc 202 and shared another. Stephens took command of 229 Squadron at Ta Kali on October 14 1942 and on that day claimed a Re 2001 destroyed and two Ju 88s damaged. On the 15th he destroyed a Ju 88 and a Bf 109 but in the action his Spitfire, BR 562, was damaged and he made a crashlanding on Ta Kali airfield. On the 18th he damaged a Bf 109. Stephens was awarded a second Bar to the DFC (3.11.42) and took command of the Hal Far Wing. He returned to the UK in June 1943 and went on a course at the Empire Central Flying School, Hullavington, after which he was appointed CFI at 3 OTU in January 1944. Stephens went to the USA in April 1945 on liaison duties. After return from the USA, Stephens attended RAF Staff College. In 1948 he returned to Turkey, this time as an instructor. He was later at SHAPE in Paris and was the first RAF officer to join NATO. Stephens later served at Cranwell and then at Guterslöh in Germany. His final appointment was another spell at SHAPE Headquarters. He retired from the RAF on November 10 1960 as a Group Captain. Stephens died on September 23 2004.

On January 11 1941 Stephen was posted away to 59 OTU, Turnhouse, as CFI, but this was altered to secondment to the RAE, Farnborough. In June 1941 Stephen was posted to Portreath, to help form 130 Squadron. He took command of 234 Squadron at Warmwell in late July. On August 12 Stephen damaged a Ju 88 and on October 15 he shared in the destruction of a Bf 109. He led 234 until early 1942, when he was posted to the Far East. Stephen became a member of the Caterpillar Club on April 25 1942, when he baled out of an aircraft, which caught fire at 4000 feet. He landed safely at Karapara, twelve miles NE of Barapore, near Calcutta. He was Wing Leader at Dum Dum and then Jessore, he later commanded 166 Fighter Wing, went to HQ 224 Group, Fighter Ops and then to Air Command South East Asia, as Ops A. He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Wing Commander. He returned to newspapers, becoming General Manager Sunday Express in 1958, General Manager Sunday Graphic 1960 and Managing Director Daily Telegraph and Sunday Telegraph in 1963. Stephen commanded 602 Squadron, RAuxAF from 1950 to 1952. Stephen was made a CBE in 1985. He died in 2001. His portrait was done by Eric Kennington and Cuthbert Orde. PO 1.4.40 FO 1.4.41 FL 7.11.41 SL 14.7.43 SL (RAuxAF) 1.9.50

PO 23.12.39 FO 20.8.40 FL 1.7.41 SL 6.2.43 SL 1.7.43 WC1.7.50 GC 1.7.58

CYRIL STEPHENS 531100

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

23 Squadron

IAN RAITT STEPHENSON 72010

Stephens, of Pencoed near Bridgend, joined the RAF in April 1936, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and with training completed, he was with 23 Squadron at Wittering in early 1940.

Pilot

British

British

264 Squadron

He was commissioned in the RAFVR in November 1937 and was called up on September 11 1939. At that time Stephenson was about to leave for Iran, to join the AngloIranian Oil Company. He completed his flying training and joined 264 Squadron at Duxford on May 22 1940. On August 26 Stephenson was shot down by Bf 109s and baled out. He was rescued from the sea, injured, landed at Herne Bay and admitted to Canterbury Hospital. The Defiant, L 7025, crashed into the sea two miles off Herne Bay. The gunner, Sergeant W Maxwell, was not seen again. After being non-effective sick, Stephenson rejoined 264 on September 7 1940. He flew again next day. He was still with 264 in November 1940. In October 1942 Stephenson was commanding 1529 Beam Approach Training Flight at Wittering. He commanded 406 (RCAF) Squadron at Valley from March to August 1943, part of Liverpool’s night defence. Stephenson took command of 153 Squadron at Reghaia, Algeria in September. He was killed on November 26 1943, as a Wing Commander, aged 26. He was flying in Beaufighter Vl ND 209 which failed to return from an interception off the Algerian coast. Pilot Officer C L L Sherbrooke was also lost. Stephenson’s name is on the Malta Memorial, Panel 6, Column 1.

MAURICE MICHAEL STEPHENS FO

Pilot

Stephenson was born in 1917, the son of the Reverend H Stephenson, minister of St Paul’s Presbyterian Church, South Croydon. He was educated at King’s College School, Wimbledon and the Royal College of Science, South Kensington. He was a member of the London University Air Squadron from early 1937 to mid-1939.

On August 8 1940 he was flying in Blenheim L 1448, which crashed near Peterborough on a night patrol, cause unknown but believed to have been temporary loss of control. Both Stephens and Pilot Officer C F Cardnell were killed. Stephens was 24. He is buried in St Crallo churchyard, Coychurch Lower, Bridgend, Glamorganshire.

33522

FO

3 and 232 Squadrons

Born at Ranchi, India on October 20 1919, Stephens was educated at Xaverian College, Mayfield, Sussex. He started work in 1936 at the Port of London Authority. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1938. After the outbreak of war, Cranwell cadets, who had not completed their courses, were enlisted in the regular RAF on September 7 1939, as Airmen u/t Pilots and each given an Airman number. Stephens (581769) graduated on December 23 1939 and was granted a Permanent Commission. He joined 11 Group Pool, St Athan on February 1 1940, for further training but was posted out to 3 Squadron at Kenley, to make room for twelve Finnish pilots. On May 10 the squadron went to France. Stephens claimed two Ju 87s and a Do 17 destroyed on the 12th, a Bf 109, a Ju 87 and a Hs 126 on the 14th, a Do 17 on the 18th and a Do 17 destroyed and a Hs 126 and three other enemy aircraft damaged on the 20th. Stephens was made ‘B’ Flight Commander on May 18, as an Acting Flight Lieutenant . The squadron was withdrawn to Kenley on the 20th and went north to Wick. Stephens was awarded the DFC and Bar (31.5.40). In July 1940 Stephens’ flight moved to Sumburgh and was renumbered 232 Squadron on the 17th and he was given command. On August 23 he shared in destroying a He 111 eight miles W of Fair Isle, the squadron’s first victory. Stephens relinquished command of 232 on October 7 1940, when steps began to be taken to bring the squadron up to two-flight strength. He relinquished his Acting Flight Lieutenant rank on October 31 but remained with the squadron. On December 10 Stephens, who had volunteered for Greece, left 232 and embarked on HMS Furious. On arrival in the Middle East, he was diverted to the Western Desert and attached to 274 Squadron on February 5 1941. After a while, Stephens was posted to Turkey and flew with a Turkish Hurricane Squadron near the Bulgarian border. He probably destroyed two SM 84s whilst there. He returned to the Western Desert in November 1941, to command 80 Squadron. On December 9 Stephens was shot down in flames, wounded in both feet. He was about to bale out when the aircraft which had attacked him, probably a Bf 109, flew past. Stephens slipped back into the cockpit and shot it down. He then baled out and was picked up by Polish troops who took him to Tobruk. Stephens was awarded the DSO (20.1.42). Fit again in March 1942, he was posted to HQ RAF East Africa at Nairobi. In August 1942 he returned to the Middle East and was attached to the US 57th Pursuit Group, training on P40s in Palestine. Stephens volunteered for Malta and was posted to 249 Squadron at Ta Kali in early October 1942. On the 10th he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another, on the 12th

PO (RAFVR) 9.11.37 FO 11.9.39 FL 20.4.41 SL 1.6.42

PATRICK JOSEPH THOMAS STEPHENSON 81343

PO

Pilot

British

607 Squadron

Stephenson was born in Dublin on August 25 1918. From 1924 to 1934 he was educated privately at schools in France, Belgium and Switzerland. He was to enter Oxford University in 1934 but his father considered that 16 was too young and felt that he would gain greater benefit from business experience. From December 1934 he was with Lloyds of London, eventually becoming a cover underwriter for French Automobile Insurance. Stephenson joined the RAFVR in September 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up at the outbreak of war and completed his flying training at 3 FTS, South Cerney on No 32 Course, which ran from January 31 to June 15 1940. Stephenson joined 607 Squadron at Usworth on June 18, direct from 3 FTS. On September 15 he collided with a Do 17 over Appledore. He baled out, slightly wounded by return fire. The enemy aircraft crashed and exploded at Combwell Wood, Kilndown, near Goudhurst. On December 18 1940 he was posted to 96 Squadron, then forming at Cranage but he rejoined 607 later in the month. In June 1941 he was instructing at 53 OTU, Heston. Later in 1941 he was back with 607 Squadron, as a Flight Commander, and on December 5 he destroyed a Bf 109 off Le Havre. Stephenson commanded 607 in India and Burma from April 1943 to March 1944 and was awarded the DFC (10.9.43).

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

ELDRED JOHN STEVENS

He probably destroyed a Japanese ‘Oscar’ on January 15 1944 and on the 20th he was wounded in combat with Japanese aircraft.. He subsequently served on the personal staff of Lord Louis Mountbatten in Kandy, Ceylon. At the end of 1944 Stephenson was appointed Wing Commander Flying at RAF Fayid, Egypt and given the job of converting pilots for service in the Far East. From 1945 to 1949 he was Assistant Air Attaché in Paris and Deputy Head of the Air Mission. Stephenson was made a Companion of the Légion d’Honneur and held the C de G (Fr). He resigned from the RAF on July 31 1955, as a Squadron Leader, emigrated to Canada and became a Canadian citizen in 1960. Stephenson died on May 20 2003 at Riding Mill, Northumberland.

82660

Pilot

British

85 Squadron

Joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on October 25 1937. Stephenson was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on January 9 1938 and with training completed, he joined 85 Squadron at Debden on August 20. Stephenson was still with the squadron at the start of the Battle of Britain on July 10 1940. He was posted away on August 4 to 7 OTU, Hawarden, as an instructor. He was released from the RAF in 1947 as a Squadron Leader. APO 9.1.38 SL 1.7.44

PO 25.10.38

FO 25.5.40

FL 25.5.41

JAROSLAV STERBACEK 81901

PO

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

British

141 Squadron

In January 1939 Stevens joined the RAFVR, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742940) and he began his flying training at weekends at 20 E&RFTS, Gravesend. Called up on September 1, he went to ITW, then he finished his ab initio flying training and was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton on February 18 1940. With training completed, Stevens was commissioned and sent to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum for No 7 Course, which ran from May 20 to June 22 1940, where he flew Audaxes. On June 23 1940 he was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down converted to Defiants and joined 141 Squadron at Prestwick on July 24. The squadron converted to the night-fighter role at Drem and moved south to Gatwick on October 24 1940. Stevens went on detachment to Biggin Hill and Manston and at some time attacked and probably destroyed a He 111 at night. On March 25 1942 Stevens was posted to 157 Squadron, then forming at Castle Camps. It was the first squadron to be fully equipped with Mosquitos. He was sent to CFS, for an instructor’s course on twins, after which he rejoined 157. In September 1942 Stevens was posted to the Special Flight at Northolt to fly high-altitude Mosquito MP 469. He took the aircraft to de Havilland for modifications and carried out gun and radar trials before being attached to FIU at Ford. Stevens later moved to West Malling, attached to 85 Squadron. He rejoined 157 Squadron in mid-1943. The squadron moved to Predannack in November and began anti-fighter patrols over the Bay of Biscay. In late March 1944 157 reequipped with Mosquito XIXs and in early May it joined 100 Group Bomber Command at Swannington, for bomber-support operations. A month later the squadron was ordered to carry out anti-V 1 patrols, flying from West Malling. Stevens was taken off operations in September 1944, after a four year tour. He was made Liaison Officer to AA Command, 6 and 9 Groups. Shortly afterwards, Stevens was posted to Canada, to instruct on Mosquito single-engined flying at North Bay. He was subsequently appointed CO of the Ferry Unit at Dorval, Montreal. Released from the RAF in December 1945, as a Squadron Leader, Stevens later went to live in France. He died there on February 13 1991 after a very short, sudden illness.

STANLEY PHILIP STEPHENSON FO

Pilot

Stevens was born at Brent Knoll, Highbridge, Somerset on February 18 1916. He was educated at King’s College, Taunton and after leaving, he began training to be a Chartered Surveyor.

PO 18.6.40 FO 18.6.41 FL 18.6.42 SL 1.9.45

40439

PO

310 Squadron

Sterbacek was born on February 12 1913 at Dolni Lhota, Blansko. He went for his military service to the Military Aviation Academy at Prostejov, on July 16 1932, where he trained as an aerial-observer. He was then assigned for further training to the Military Academy at Hranice. On August 1 1938 he returned to Prostejov for pilot training and graduated as a pilot. He was posred to the 48th Fighter Squadron of the 4th Air Regiment which was based at Prague-Kbely and equipped with Avia B-534 fighter aircraft. When the Germans took over his country on March 15 1939 the Czechoslovak Air Force was disbanded and he was

PO 16.6.40 FO 16.6.41 FL 16.6.42

GEOFFREY STEVENS 137305

Sgt

Pilot

British

151 and 213 Squadrons

Born on August 21 1917, Stevens joined the RAFVR on July 5 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740418). He did his elementary flying at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham and later at 5 E&RFTS, Hanworth and 19 E&RFTS, Gatwick.

demobilised on the 17th. He escaped to Poland where he reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate in Krakow.With other Czech airmen he travelled to Gdynia where he boarded ship bound for France. On arrival in France Czech airmen were required to join the French Foreign Legion for a five year period with the agreement that, should war be declared, they would be transferred to French military units. Sterbacek was placed at the Legion barracks at Nanterre, near Paris, awaiting transfer to the training base at Sidi-bel-Abbes, Algeria but, before he could be transferred, war was declared and he was transferred to l’Armee de l’Air at Dugny, near Paris. On October 9 1939 he was assigned to the CIC at Chartres, for retraining on to French equipment which he completed on May 16 1940. He was then posted to Patrouille DAT (Groupe de Chasse de Defense) which was equipped with MS-406C aircraft and based at Chartres. When France fell, Sterbacek, together with the other Czech airmen at Chartres, was released from French service. He travelled to Bordeaux and on June 19 he boarded the Ary Scheffer and arrived at Falmouth on June 21. Shortly after arrival in England Sterbacek was transferred to the Czechoslovak Airmen’s Depot at Cosford. In July he was accepted into the RAFVR and posted to 310 Squadron, based at Duxford. He flew his first sortie on August 19. On the 31st Sterbacek, as one of twelve Hurricanes from the Squadron, took off on a patrol. Over the Thames Estuary they saw a formation of Do 17s Bf 109 escort. The Hurricanes intercepted and in the resultant fight, Sterbacek’s Hurricane, P 3159 was seen to go into a steep dive and was believed to have fallen into the estuary. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 10 and there is a headstone in his memory in Brookwood Cemetery.

Called to full-time service on September 1 1939, Stevens was posted to 8 FTS, Woodley, for an instructor’s course. In November he went to 3 ITW, Hastings and in midFebruary 1940 he moved to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth for a course on Harvards. On August 3 Stevens went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 151 Squadron at North Weald on August 31. The squadron was about to move to Digby for a rest and Stevens volunteered for a squadron in the south. He went to Tangmere and joined 213 Squadron on September 14. On the 30th Stevens damaged a Bf 110. He was shot down on October 17 and crashed just outside Ashford, in Hurricane V 6866, unhurt. In January 1941 213 was posted overseas but Stevens remained on the staff at RAF Castletown. He later went to No 1 AACU at Western Zoyland and then 2 AACU at Aberporth. In September 1942 he was posted to 59 OTU, Milfield as an instructor. Two months later he joined 609 Squadron. In January 1943 Stevens was commissioned from Warrant Officer. He went to North Africa in April and joined 253 Squadron at Jemappes. He was promoted and appointed ‘A’ Flight Commander. Stevens took command of 87 Squadron in Italy in September 1943. He was posted away in July 1944 and went to Egypt in October, eventually taking over the Fighter Affiliation Flight at Abu Sueir. Stevens returned to the UK in December 1945 and was released from the RAF. He rejoined and was posted to 61 OTU, Keevil in March 1946. He was invalided out on May 4 1968, as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on April 17 2006.

PO 12.7.40

PO 16.1.43 FO 16.7.43 FL 23.12.43 FL 16.7.46 FL 16.1.49

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LEONARD WALTER STEVENS 41753

FO

Pilot

British

JG 51 over the Channel and he landed at Manston with his engine seized. He was unhurt. On August 11 Stevenson was shot down into the Channel one mile off Dover, following a solo attack on twelve Bf 109s, one of which he probably destroyed. He baled out of Spitfire P 9393 and was rescued from the sea by an MTB, after drifting eleven miles out. He attracted the MTB’s attention by firing his revolver. Stevenson was awarded the DFC (27.8.40) and posted away on September 20 1940 to 5 OTU, Aston Down as an instructor. He was killed on February 13 1943, as a Flight Lieutenant with 64 Squadron, shot down during a sweep over the Boulogne area. Stevenson is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 121.

17 Squadron

Stevens, from Hindhead, Surrey, was educated at Whitgift School, Croydon. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on December 28 1938. He was on 29 Squadron at Drem on April 4 1940. Stevens arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on June 8, for a refresher course. He converted to Hurricanes and joined 229 Squadron at Digby on the 17th. However, Stevens was with 17 Squadron at Debden on July 1 1940. He claimed two Bf 110s probably destroyed on August 11, on the 24th he shared in the destruction of a He 111, on September 15 he probably destroyed a Do 17, on October 2 he shared in the destruction of a Do 17 and he probably destroyed another on November 27 1940. On March 30 1941 Stevens joined 145 Squadron at Tangmere as ‘B’ Flight Commander. As the squadron was returning from a patrol on May 21, Stevens collided with his No 2 over Tangmere. The two aircraft spun in and crashed a few yards from each other at the edge of the aerodrome. Both pilots were killed. Stevens is buried in St Alban’s churchyard, Hindhead. A memorial plaque to him at Whitgift School was unveiled on November 10 2004.

PO 23.12.39 FO 23.12.40 FL 23.12.41

GEORGE ARTHUR STEWARD 45375

Pilot

British

29 Squadron

Stevens, of Croydon, was born in April 1920 and educated at Winton House School, Croydon and Dover College. He joined the RAFVR in February 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot, and did his pre-war training at 2 E&RFTS, Filton. Called up on September 1, Stevens completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 17 Course, which ran from December 9 1939 to May 26 1940. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on May 27. After converting to Blenheims, he was posted to29 Squadron at Digby on June 16. On October 13 1940 Stevens was captain of Blenheim L 6637, shot down in error by Hurricanes of 312 Squadron. The aircraft crashed in flames off the Point of Aire, near the Morcambe Light. All three men on board were lost, Stevens, Sergeant O K Sly, air gunner and AC 2 A Jackson, radar operator. Stevens is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 19.

AC

Air Gunner

British

CHARLES STEWART 44231

British

New Zealander

54 and 222 Squadrons

He applied for an RNZAF short service commission in March 1939, was accepted in June and joined the Ground Training School at Rongotai on September 20. Stewart was posted to No 1 EFTS, Taieri on October 21 and moved on to No 1 FTS, Wigram on February 12 1940. He was awarded his flying badge on April 15 and after completing the course in late May, he sailed for the UK in the RMS Rangitata on June 7. Stewart arrived on July 20 and he transferred to the RAF with a short service commission as of that day’s date. He went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on the 21st, to await a posting. This came on August 4, when he went to 7 OTU, Hawarden. After converting to Spitfires, he joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on the 22nd. Two days later Stewart was shot down by Bf 109s off Dover. He baled out at 20,000 feet, opened his parachute at 10,000 and went into the Channel. After fifteen minutes he saw an ASR launch but it failed to spot him and turned away. Stewart later described this as one of the worst moments of his life. Another launch appeared in forty-five minutes and picked him up. As the craft neared Dover, it was machine-gunned by a Bf 109, without damage. Stewart was admitted to hospital suffering from shock and exposure. His Spitfire, P 9389, crashed at School Lane, Kingsdown. He was non-effective sick from August 24 to September 11, when he rejoined 54 Squadron, then at Catterick. Stewart was posted to 222 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 30 1940. He damaged a Bf 109 on October 17. He was with the squadron for over five months and took part in ninety operational sorties. Stewart joined the newly-formed 485 Squadron on March 12 1941. He destroyed a Bf 109 on July 8. Three days later he was flying one of eleven Spitfires on an offensive patrol. At 23,000

PETER CHARLES FASKEN STEVENSON Pilot

Pilot

23 Squadron

When he flew his last sortie with 23 Squadron on October 27 1940, Stevens was still flying without an NCO rank. He left the RAF as a Flight Sergeant but no further details of his service career have been confirmed. He died in June 2010.

PO

PO

Born in Wellington on November 22 1916, Stewart was educated at Wellington College and later worked as an accounts clerk.

Stevens joined the RAF in July 1938, as an Aircrafthand. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and with training completed, he joined 23 Squadron. His first flight was on October 10 1939.

33521

17 Squadron

PO 19.2.41

WILLIAM RONALD STEVENS 615438

British

He began his ab initio course on January 6 1936 and after he had successfully completed it, he was formally enlisted in the RAF on March 2 1936. At the outbreak of war, Steward was with 17 Squadron at Croydon. The squadron went to France on May 18 1940. Next day Steward claimed a Bf 109 destroyed in the Valenciennes area and on the 21st he shared in the destruction of a Hs 126 over Abbeville. The squadron was withdrawn to Kenley on the 24th. Next day Steward damaged a Ju 87 in the Calais area and he damaged a Do 17 near Dunkirk on the 27th. On June 6 he probably destroyed a Bf 109. Steward shared in the probable destruction of a Bf 110 on August 27, destroyed another on September 27, shared in destroying a Do 17 on October 6, destroyed a Ju 87 and damaged two others on November 8 and probably destroyed a Bf 109 and shared in the destruction of another on the 11th. He was awarded the DFM (17.12.40). Commissioned in February 1941, Steward was killed on October 23 1941, as a Flight Lieutenant with 17 Squadron. He was 26 and is buried in St Edmund’s churchyard, Bromeswell, Suffolk.

ROBERT EDWARD STEVENS Sgt

Pilot

Steward, of Bromeswell, Suffolk, was educated at Melton Council School and Leiston County Secondary School. He joined the RAF in January 1936 as a direct-entry Airman u/t Pilot (580149).

APO 4.3.39 PO 23.9.39 FO 23.9.40

742992

Sgt

74 Squadron

Stevenson from Billinghay, Lincolnshire, was educated at Clifton College. He entered RAF College, Cranwell in September 1938, as a Flight Cadet. After the outbreak of war, Cranwell cadets, who had not completed their courses, were enlisted in the regular RAF on September 7 1939, as Airmen u/t Pilots and each given an Airman number. Stevenson (581771) graduated on December 23 1939 and he was granted a Permanent Commission. He joined 74 Squadron at Rochford on January 6 1940, direct from Cranwell. Over Dunkirk on May 22, Stevenson shared in destroying a Ju 88 and on the 27th he probably destroyed a Bf 109. On this day he was hit by return fire from a Do 17 and made a forced-landing on the beach at Dunkirk. He returned to the squadron on the 31st. On July 8 Stevenson destroyed a Bf 109, on the 10th he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another and two Bf 110s, on the 12th he shared a He 111, on the 19th probably destroyed a Bf 109, on the 28th he destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged two others. On this day he was attacked by Oberleutnant Leppla, whilst pursuing Major Molders of

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

14 days sick leave and some time after return he was posted to 72 Squadron at Biggin Hill as a Flight Commander. Stewart-Clark was killed on September 19 1941, as a Flight Lieutenant with 72 Squadron. He crashed in his Spitfire off Gravelines, France. He is buried in Pihen-les-Guines Communal Cemetery, France.

feet, in the vicinity of Gravelines, they were attacked by six Bf 109s. Stewart was last seen in the ensuing engagement. He failed to return to base and a search by the squadron in the Dover Strait was unsuccessful. Stewart is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 34. APO 20.9.39 PO 28.5.40

PO 17.4.40 FO 17.4.41

CHARLES NOEL DOUGLAS STEWART 800061

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

PHILLIP AMBROSE MEYNELL STICKNEY

604 Squadron

37216 Stewart joined 600 Squadron, AAF before the war, as an Aircrafthand. Called up on August 24 1939, he later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner and with training completed, he was with 604 Squadron at Northolt by June 1940.

FL

Pilot

British

235 Squadron

Joined the RAF on a short service commission in April 1935. Stickney was posted to 6 FTS, Netheravon on May 7 and with training completed, he went to 9 Squadron at Scampton on February 17 1936. He moved to the staff of No 1 Armament Training Camp at Catfoss on June 22 1937.

He served with the squadron throughout the Battle of Britain and was still with it in November 1940. Stewart was killed on May 31 1942, as a Flight Sergeant with 9 Squadron, operating in Wellingtons from Honington. His aircraft, BJ 674, failed to return from an operation to Cologne. He is buried in Woensel General Cemetery, Eindhoven, the Netherlands.

In December 1939 Stickney was with 214 Squadron at Methwold, flying Wellingtons. He joined 235 Squadron at Bircham Newton on July 28 1940 and was still with the squadron on November 19 1940. Stickney was released from the RAF in 1947 as a Flight Lieutenant. APO 16.4.35 PO 16.4.36 FO 16.1.38 FL 16.1.40

DONALD GEORGE ALEXANDER STEWART 41624

FO

Pilot

British

615 Squadron

RONALD LESLIE STILLWELL 126839

Born in 1913/14 Stewart was educated at St Mary Abbots School, Kensington, London. After leaving, he was employed by the Royal Borough of Kensington.

DUDLEY STEWART-CLARK Pilot

British

British

65 Squadron

From November 7 1939 to April 7 he was at 7 EFTS, Desford. He moved to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 19 Course, which ran from April 11 to July 24 1940. Stillwell was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 3 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 19 1940. On August 12 1941 Stillwell destroyed a Bf 109 and on October 31 he probably destroyed a Ju 88. Stillwell was promoted to Warrant Officer on May 1 1942, commissioned in June and awarded the DFM (16.6.42). The citation stated that in August 1941 he sighted a bomber crew in the sea fifteen miles off the Dutch coast and his information enabled them to be rescued. In April 1942, returning from a sweep, he sighted a pilot in the sea without a dinghy and although short of fuel, he managed to drop his own dinghy 25 yards from the spot. The pilot was later found to be dead. On October 15 1942 Stillwell was posted away from 65 and spent a month with the 97th Squadron (USAAF) at Maydown, on Lightnings. He went to 57 OTU, Eshott on November 16, as an instructor on Spitfires. On June 7 1943 Stillwell rejoined 65 Squadron, then at Selsey. In October he was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander. On June 10 1944 Stillwell damaged a Bf 109 and on the 14th he damaged a FW 190. On July 9 1944 he was given command of 122 Squadron at Martragny in France. A signal posting Stillwell as CO of 65 was cancelled by the AOC, who considered promotion within the unit as ‘bad for discipline’ and he went to 122 instead. On July 26 Stillwell destroyed a FW 190 and damaged another and on the 27th he destroyed another. He was posted to 3 TEU, Aston Down on October 20 1944, as CGI. He was awarded the DFC (17.11.44), being then credited with three enemy aircraft destroyed and others damaged. He went to Hutton Cranswick on June 5, as Senior Admin Officer. Stillwell was selected for a Permanent Commission in November 1945 but a medical showed tuberculosis in both lungs. He was eventually invalided out of the RAF on September 15 1947 as a Squadron Leader. He died in February 1993.

APO 14.1.39 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40

PO

Pilot

Born in Holborn, London on January 31 1920, Stillwell joined the RAFVR on February 8 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742999) and did his weekend flying at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham. He was called up on September 1 and on October 2 he was posted to No 1 ITW, Cambridge.

On February 12 1937 Stewart joined 601 Squadron, AAF at Hendon (801444) and left on August 15. He joined the RAFVR on March 6 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741339) and he began his flying training in Tiger Moths at 20 E&RFTS, Gravesend, soloing on June 18. He continued his flying at 15 E&RFTS, Redhill. Stewart joined the RAF on a short service commission and began an ab initio course at 5 E&RFTS, Hanworth on December 5 1938. He soloed on a Blackburn B II the next day. On January 14 1939 Stewart went to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge for a short disciplinary course and on the 28th he on moved to 5 FTS, Sealand. The month of August 1939 was spent on Furies at 9 Armament Training Camp at Porthcawl. Stewart returned briefly to 5 FTS and on September 2 he went on the Training Squadron, No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum, on Lysanders. From there he joined 613 Squadron at Odiham on October 8 1939. In May 1940 Stewart took part in dive-bombing attacks on Calais. In August he volunteered for Fighter Command. Stewart arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 5 from 613 Squadron and after converting to Hurricanes, he joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick on the 24th. On February 15 1941 the squadron flew a sweep to the Netherlands. Stewart was shot down into the sea off Flushing and was reported ‘Missing’. In April 1941 a body was recovered from the sea and was buried at Zeebrugge as ‘an unknown flyer’. After the war this was found to be Stewart, identified by a tailor’s tab from his tunic. The tab had been kept by a member of the gendarmerie. He is now buried at Adegem Canadian Cemetery, Belgium with his name and other details on the headstone.

78535

Sgt

603 Squadron

Stewart-Clark was born at Dundas Castle, West Lothian, a member of the wealthy Coates family, sewing thread manufacturers. He was educated at Eton. He joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748218). Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 602 Squadron at Drem in March 1940.

PO 25.6.42 FO 25.12.42 FL 25.6.44

He moved to ‘A’ Flight of 603 Squadron at Dyce on April 29. On July 3 Stewart-Clark shared in the destruction of a Ju 88, on the 6th he shared a Do 17 and on the 15th and 16th he shared He 111s. On September 2 he probably destroyed a Bf 110. Next day he was shot down by Hauptmann Bšde of II/JG 26 over the Channel off Margate, in Spitfire X 4185. Stewart-Clark baled out over Creeksea Church, Burnham, with a bullet wound in the lower leg, and was admitted to Chelmsford Hospital. He rejoined 603, then at Turnhouse, from HQ 11 Group on April 10 1941. On May 23 Stewart-Clark flew an operational sortie, a sweep over the Channel to Gravelines. On landing he was taken off flying by the MO and admitted to hospital with cellulitis, a spreading bacterial infection, possibly connected with his leg wound. On June 21 Stewart-Clark was shot down in combat with Bf 109s and made a crashlanding on the Goodwin Sands, in Spitfire R 7345, wounded. On the 23rd he was sent on

ERIC STOCK 1050677

AC 2

Radar Operator

British

604 Squadron

Stock joined the RAFVR in March 1940, as an Aircrafthand. He volunteered for aircrew duties, went on a short radar course and with training completed, he joined 604 Squadron at Gravesend on July 10 1940. He was still with 604 on November 6 1940. During 1942 he was in Ceylon serving with 181 Wing on radar duties. From January 1944 to the middle of 1945 he was stationed in Burma. He moved to India in October that year before returning to the UK Stock died in March 1995.

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NORMAN JAMES STOCKS 552636

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

detached to AFDU, Northolt on March 4 1940, for an Air Fighting Course. Stokes shared in destroying a Bf 109 W of Dunkirk on May 27 and he destroyed two Bf 110s and a Ju 87 over Dunkirk on the 29th. He served with 264 throughout the Battle of Britain. He was posted away on November 15 1940. In 1942 Stokes was a flying instructor at 23 SFTS, Southern Rhodesia. He was killed on May 29, aged 21. He was a Flight Lieutenant at the time of his death. He is buried in Bulawayo Cemetery, Zimbabwe..

248 Squadron

Stocks joined the RAF about May 1938, as a Boy Entrant. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Wop/AG and with training completed, he joined 248 Squadron at Dyce in late July 1940. Stocks was a member of the crew of Blenheim L 9453, which failed to return from a reconnaissance sortie over the Norwegian coast on October 20 1940. It had been searching for a Blenheim of 248 which had been lost earlier in the day. Stocks and Pilot Officer M D Greeen, observer, were reported ‘Missing’ and the pilot, Pilot Officer S R Gane, was killed. Stocks is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 12.

APO 29.4.39 PO 6.11.39 FO 6.11.40 FL 6.11.41

WILLIAM ERIC JOHN STOCKWELL D/JX 136302

Petty Officer

Pilot

British

JACK STOKOE

804 Squadron

60512

Sgt

Pilot

British

On November 30 1939 Stockwell joined 804 Squadron at Hatston, flying Sea Gladiators on dockyard defence.

The son of a coal miner, Stokoe was born in West Cornforth, Co Durham on February 1 1920. He joined the RAFVR in June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748661) and did his weekend flying at 26 E&RFTS, Oxford.

He shared in the probable destruction of a He 111, on April 10 1940, with Blue Section 804. He embarked on the carrier HMS Glorious with 804 on April 29, for operations off Norway. On September 5 1940 804 again embarked, by air, on HMS Furious but disembarked again on September 8 and returned to Hatston. On November 15 1940 the carrier HMS Argus sailed from Gibraltar with twelve Hurricanes and two Skuas aboard, destined for Malta. At dawn on the 17th, four hundred sea miles from Malta, the first flight of six Hurricanes took off, with an FAA Skua acting as a navigating leader. One hour later the second flight of six took off and the navigating Skua was flown by Stockwell. Things went wrong. The Sunderland scheduled to escort them in failed to take off from Gibraltar. They missed their landfall, failed to find the bomber sent out to meet them and became lost. The Skua navigator radioed for help but his set was faulty and unable to receive replies. Stockwell searched for somewhere to land, as the Hurricanes ran out of fuel one by one and fell into the sea, with the loss of all six pilots. Just as the Skua was about to run out of fuel, Stockwell sighted land, south-western Sicily. The aircraft was almost immediately fired on by Italian anti-aircraft defences and crash-landed on the beach at Punta Palo on the Isola delle Correnti, near Syracuse. Stockwell and his navigator were captured. Stockwell became a Commissioned Pilot in 1945. He later served in 771 and 779 Squadrons. He retired on December 9 1950. He died in 1992.

Called to full-time service at the outbreak of war, Stokoe was sent to No 1 ITW, Cambridge, based at Magdalene College. He was posted to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth for No 6 Course, which ran from December 29 1939 to June 10 1940. Stokoe arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 10 and converted to Spitfires. He joined 263 Squadron at Drem on June 26. The squadron was then converting to Whirlwinds and when given the option, Stokoe chose to remain on singleengine fighters and was posted to ‘A’ Flight of 603 Squadron at Dyce on July 3 1940. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on August 29, destroyed a Bf 109 and probably another on the 31st, destroyed another Bf 109 on September 1 and damaged a Bf 110 on the 2nd. On this day Stokoe was himself shot down in flames. He baled out, wounded, and was reported ‘Missing’. He turned up at Leeds Castle Hospital, near Maidstone. He spent six weeks in hospital, with severe burns on hands and face. Stokoe was non-effective sick until October 14 1940, when he returned to the squadron. On the 26th Stokoe’s engine seized at 25,000 feet. He decided he had enough altitude to glide back. As he crossed the coast, he chose a field, manually lowered his flaps and undercarriage and made a successful landing. In similar circumstances, several pilots and aircraft had been recently lost. An examination of Stokoe’s intact Spitfire revealed an oil pump system fault. Thus revealed, the defect was rectified on other Spitfires. He shared a Bf 110 on November 7, destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another on the 8th, destroyed another on the 17th and shared a Do 17 on the 29th. Commissioned in January 1941, he was posted away to 54 Squadron at Catterick on February 3. On March 5 Stokoe destroyed a Bf 109 and on April 20 destroyed a Bf 110 but was himself shot down. He baled out safely into the sea and was picked up. On May 6 Stokoe damaged a Bf 109, on June 7 he shared in probably destroying another, got another probable on the 21st and destroyed another on the 24th, his final victory. He was posted to 74 Squadron at Gravesend on June 27 1941 but the stay was a short one and he went to 59 OTU, Crosby-on-Eden, as an instructor. Stokoe moved to 60 OTU, East Fortune on July 17 1941. This unit was re-numbered 132 OTU in November 1942. Stokoe went to 1692 (R/D) Flight at Drem on October 3 1943, to instruct on specialised airborne radar equipment. He was awarded the DFC (6.6.44). In late June 1945 he became Senior Admin Officer at Great Massingham, later becoming Station Commander. He was released from the RAF on August 21 1946, as a Squadron Leader. He rejoined the RAFVR in July 1947, flying Tiger Moths and Chipmunks until June 1952, at 24 RFS, Rochester. Stokoe later settled in Kent and worked for the County Council there. For his final fourteen years, he was Chief Standards Trading Officer. He retired in 1983 and is believed to have died in September 1999.

Commissioned Pilot 18.2.45

KENNETH MAXWELL STODDART 90358

FL

Pilot

British

603 Squadron

611 Squadron

Born on May 26 1914, Stoddart was educated at Sedbergh and Clare College, Cambridge. He joined 611 Squadron, AAF at Speke in December 1936 and qualified as a pilot in late 1937. He was appointed ‘B’ Flight Commander on August 10 1939, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939. Stoddart made his last flight with 611 on September 28 1940. He fell ill and relinquished his command of ‘B’ Flight on October 7. He was made non-effective sick from October 16. He later went on sick leave and was posted from 611 Squadron to RAF Digby on November 24 1940, whilst still on sick leave. He was released from the RAF in 1945, as a Wing Commander. Stoddart was made a Deputy Lieutenant for Lancashire in 1958. He became High Sheriff of Merseyside in 1974 and was Lord Lieutenant Metropolitan County of Merseyside 1979 to 1989. He became an Hon Ll.D Liverpool in 1986 and a KCVO in 1989. Sir Kenneth died on December 26 2008.

PO 26.1.41 FO 15.1.42 FL 15.1.43 FO (RAFVR) 14.7.47

SYDNEY STOKOE

PO (AAF) 18.12.36 FO (AAF) 1.9.38 FO 26.8.39 FL 3.9.40 SL 1.12.41

754855

RICHARD WILLIAM STOKES

Stokoe, of Gateshead, joined the RAFVR about August 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training and joined 29 Squadron at Wellingore about September 1 1940. He did not fly his first operational sortie until September 21.

42027

PO

Pilot

British

264 Squadronn

Stokes, of Acton, Middlesex, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on March 6 1939. He was at 12 FTS, Grantham for No 2 Course, which ran from May 15 to November 5 1939.

Sgt

Pilot

British

29 Squadron

Stokoe was killed on December 19 1940, when the Blenheim he was piloting, L 6612, crashed SW of Digby aerodrome, possibly after hitting a tree during low flying. The two members of the crew were also killed. Stokoe was 25. He is buried in St Mary’s churchyard, Heworth, Co Durham.

He joined the newly-reformed 264 Squadron at Sutton Bridge on November 6. He was

501

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

CEDRIC ARTHUR CUTHBERT STONE 39424

FL

Pilot

British

at Drigh Road, Karachi from September 3 1943 until September 3 1944, when he was posted back to the UK. He joined RT&D, 218 MU, Colerne on November 15 and remained with it until March 29 1945. Stones was seconded as test pilot to Vickers Armstrong at Weybridge on April 4 and was grounded in September when he lost an eye in an accident on the ground. In October 1945 Stones was posted to Air Ministry. He was released from the RAF in August 1946, as a Squadron Leader, to take up an appointment as a District Officer in the Colonial Service. He served in Kenya, Tanganyika and Malaya, as a District Officer and Magistrate. After Malaysian independence, Stones returned to England and farmed in the West Country. Stones went back to Africa in the 1960s and set up an agency representing British and European aviation companies, acting as salesman and demonstrator. He again returned to England in the mid-1970s and retired, giving up his pilot’s licence. He wrote two books of reminiscences, Operation Bograt (1990) and Dimsie (1991). Stones died on October 22 2002.

263 and 245 Squadrons

Stone was born on December 8 1916 at Amritsar, India. His father, an Indian Army Officer, was killed in Mesopotamia during the Great War. Stone returned to England and after a year at the College of Aeronautical Engineering, Chelsea, he went to Selwyn College, Cambridge and joined the University Air Squadron. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on November 16 1936. He went to 2 FTS, Digby on February 2 1937 and with training completed, he went to 3 Squadron at Kenley on February 2 1938. Stone went to France with the squadron on May 10 1940. On the 12th he destroyed a Hs 126 and shared in destroying another and on the 14th he destroyed a Bf 109, a Ju 87 and possibly another. The squadron was withdrawn to Kenley on the 25th and then went north to Wick. Stone was awarded the DFC (31.5.40). On July 3 he was posted to 263 Squadron at Drem, when it was reformed after the Norwegian campaign. Stone went to 245 Squadron at Aldergrove on July 13, as ‘A’ Flight Commander, with the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant. On December 18 1940 Stone joined 607 Squadron at Usworth, as ‘B’ Flight Commander. In July 1941 he took command of 17 Squadron at Elgin. The squadron was posted to the Far East in November 1941. In January 1942 it was operational at Mingaladon in Burma. Stone destroyed a Japanese Ki 21 and damaged two others on the 24th, destroyed a Ki 21 at night on the 27/28th and destroyed two Army 96 bombers on the ground on March 21. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (10.4.42). From November 1943 until March 1944 Stone commanded 135 Squadron in India. He was released from the RAF in 1946 as a Wing Commander. He became an artist, lived in South Africa and the UK and died in 1990.

APO 24.6.39 PO 27.12.39 FO 27.12.40 FL 27.12.41

GEORGE EDWARD BOWES STONEY 28119

Pilot

British

British

501 Squadron

On May 2 1932 Stoney went to 4 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Farnborough. He went on to Class ‘A’ of the RAFO on July14 1934 and was recalled at the outbreak of war. He was posted to RAF College FTS, Cranwell on September 2 1939, for flying duties. Stoney was posted from Cranwell to 214 Squadron at Methwold on November 20 1939, to fly Wellingtons. He joined 99 Squadron at Newmarket on December 6 1939. From there he went to SHQ Harwell on February 22 1940. Stoney joined 501 Squadron at Gravesend from 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 28 1940, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. He shared in the destruction of a Ju 87 and damaged another on the 29th, damaged a Bf 110 on August 12 and destroyed two Ju 87s and probably another on the 15th.. Stoney was killed on the 18th, shot down by Hauptmann J Fözö of II/JG 51. His Hurricane, P 2549, crashed near Stile Farm, Chilham. He was 29. He is buried in St Helen’s churchyard, Sefton, Lancashire.

DONALD WILLIAM ALFRED STONES PO

Pilot

Stoney joined the RAF on a short service commission in August 1929. He was posted to No 1 FTS, Netheravon on September 8 and joined the staff at 502 (Special Reserve) Squadron on August 13 1930, as a Flying Instructor.

APO 28.1.37 PO 9.2.38 FO 19.9.39 FL 19.9.40 SL 1.12.41

42276

FL

79 Squadron

Stones was born in Norwich on June 19 1921 and was educated at Ipswich Grammar School. He joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his ab initio course on May 1 1939 at 13 E&RFTS, White Waltham. He went on to 10 FTS, Ternhill on July 19 and after training was completed, he was posted to 11 Group Fighter Pool, St Athan on December 28 1939, to convert to Hurricanes. On January 26 1940 Stones joined 32 Squadron at Gravesend and moved to 79 Squadron at Biggin Hill on March 19. The squadron went to France on May 10 to reinforce the squadrons there. On the 14th Stones destroyed a Ju 88 and shared another, on the 18th he claimed a Bf 110 destroyed and another damaged and on the 19th and 20th he destroyed Hs 126s. The squadron was withdrawn on the 20th. On the 27th Stones destroyed a Bf 110 and probably a second, on June 7 probably destroyed a Bf 109 and on the 8th he shared a He 111. Stones was awarded the DFC (4.6.40), which he received from the King in a special ceremony at Biggin Hill on the 27th. He damaged a Bf 109 on July 4 and claimed a Bf 109 probably destroyed on the 9th. He was attached to the School of Air Navigation from August 2 to 25, for a course. He destroyed a Do 17 and probably another on August 31, a probable Do 17 on September 1, a probable Bf 110 on the 4th and a probable Do 17 and a share in a probable Ju 88 on the 7th. On this day Stones was slightly wounded in combat and landed at West Malling. He rejoined 79 on the 26th and shared in destroying a He 111 on September 29. He was posted away to CFS, Upavon on December 15 1940, for an instructor’s course, after which he went to 8 EFTS, Woodley on January 21 1941. Two months later Stones moved to 59 OTU, Crosby-on-Eden, to instruct on Hurricanes. He rejoined 79 Squadron, then at Pembrey, on May 26 but left on July 15 to join 249 Squadron in Malta. He arrived as a passenger in a Blenheim from Gibraltar on the 19th and shared a Z 1007 on the 25th. Stones joined the Malta Night Fighter Flight at Ta Kali on the 30th and shared another Z 1007 during the night of September 4/5. He baled out at 500 feet on the night of November 9, because of engine trouble and landed safely. In February 1942 Stones was posted to 605 Squadron in Malta. On March 1 he damaged a Ju 88, on the 6th destroyed a Bf 109, on the 9th got a probable Bf 109 and on the 18th damaged a Ju 88. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (10.4.42) and posted on April 22, to 73 OTU at El Ballah, Egypt, as an instructor. His stay was short and he took command of 155 Squadron on May 10, newly-formed at Peshawar, India, with Curtiss Mohawks. Stones led the squadron until October 30. After a rest, he was given command of 67 Squadron at Alipore, India on February 1 1943. He damaged a Japanese Ki 21 on April 4 and destroyed an ‘Oscar’, on the ground on the airstrip at Kangaung, in Burma, on May 15. Stones was wounded in this action and was posted away. It was his last operational flight. Stones became a test pilot at the Test Unit, Bombay on July 1 and was with the T&D Unit

PO 15.8.29 FO 15.2.31 FO (RAFO) 14.7.34 FL 2.9.39

DONALD RAYMOND STOODLEY 754215

Sgt

Pilot

British

43 Squadron

Stoodley, of Southampton, joined the RAFVR about June 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 9 FTS, Hullavington on No 20 Course,from June 9 to September 7 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 9. After converting to Hurricanes, Stoodley was posted to 43 Squadron at Usworth on the 28th. He was killed in a flying accident there on October 24. After several attempts to make a cross-wind landing, he stalled and crashed from 250 feet, in Hurricane V 7303. Stoodley was 21. He is buried in London Road Cemetery, Salisbury.

JOHN MUNRO STORIE 84941

PO

Pilot

British

615 and 607 Squadrons

Storie joined the RAFVR at Perth in March 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (748646) and began his flying training at 11 E&RFTS there. Called to full-time service on September 1 1939, Storie was posted to 3 ITW, Hastings on October 1. He went to 4 EFTS, Brough to complete his elementary flying and then on to 10 FTS, Ternhill for No 21 Course, which ran from June 10 to September 6 1940. With training completed, he arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on September 7. After converting to Hurricanes, Storie joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick on September 30. He moved to 607 Squadron at Tangmere on October 9. On December 29 1940 Storie was sent to 2 CFS, Cranwell, for an instructor’s course, after which he was posted to 16 FTS, Newton. In February 1942

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he moved to 17(P)AFU and in March 1943 Storie was instructing at 5 GTS, Shobdon. In April 1944 he did a twin-engine refresher course on Oxfords before converting to Mosquitos. Storie joined 540 Squadron at Benson in June, on PR duties. From November 1945 Storie was a test pilot at Hullavington. He was released from the RAF in January 1946. He rejoined the RAFVR in June 1948. Storie died in 1995.

ALEXANDER JAMES STORRIE

PO 7.9.40 FO 6.9.41 FL 6.9.42 FO (RAFVR) 7.6.48

Storrie completed his training, was commissioned in February 1940 and joined 264 Squadron at Duxford on June 13 1940. He was detached from 264 to CGS, Warmwell from July 12 to August 9, for No 8 Gunnery Leader Course. He was killed on November 20 1940, when Defiant N 1626 crashed at Blatches Farm, soon after taking off from Rochford. The pilot, Pilot Officer G H Hackwood, was also killed. Storrie was 24. He is buried in St Leonard’s churchyard, Lexden, Colchester.

43641

FO

Pilot

British

Air Gunner British

264 Squadron

Storrie, of Colchester, joined the RAF in September 1932, as an Aircraft Apprentice (566225) and passed out in August 1935. He later remustered as an Airman u/t Air Gunner.

JAMES ERIC STORRAR 41881

PO

145 and 73 Sqdns, 421 Flight

Storrar was born on July 24 1921 at Ormskirk. He increased his age by one year and joined the RAF on a short service commission.

PO 21.2.40

He began his ab initio course at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield on January 23 1939, as a pupil pilot. He went on to 11 FTS, Shawbury for No 12 Course, which ran from April 15 to October 23 1939. During the course, in August 1939, he moved to the Blenheim Conversion Flight and, training completed, he then joined 145 Squadron at Croydon on October 23, soon after it was reformed. The squadron exchanged its Blenheims for Hurricanes in March 1940. On May 23 Storrar claimed a Bf 110 destroyed, on the 24th a Do 17 and on the 27th two Bf 110s near Dunkirk. On July 11 he claimed a He 111 destroyed, on the 15th a probable Do 17, on the 18th a shared He 111, on the 27th a Bf 109 destroyed, on the 29th a shared Ju 88, on August 8 a Ju 87 destroyed and another damaged, on the 12th a probable Bf 110 and on September 8 a shared, probable Do 17. He was awarded the DFC (20.8.40). On September 28 Storrar was posted to 73 Squadron at Castle Camps. He was detached from 73 to 421 Flight on October 20. He flew one sortie with the Flight, on the 24th, and he rejoined 73 on the 25th. The squadron left Debden on November 9 for Birkenhead, en route for the Middle East. It embarked in HMS Furious at Glasgow on the 13th, with its aircraft, and flew off to Takoradi on the 29th. The squadron then flew in easy stages to Heliopolis, via Lagos, Accra, Kano, Maiduguri, Khartoum, Wadi Halfa and Abu Sueir. During December the pilots were attached to 274 Squadron in the Western Desert. In early January 1941 73 Squadron began operating on its own account. On the 3rd Storrar joined Squadron Leader A D Murray and Sergeant A E Marshall in destroying eight enemy aircraft on a landing ground, on the 6th he shot down a CR 42 in the Tobruk area, on February 1 he destroyed a Caproni Ghibli on Apollonia airfield and on the 5th, again with Murray and Marshall, he strafed Benina airfield, destroying some eight enemy aircraft on the ground between them. On the 19th Storrar damaged a Bf 110. On April 4 1941 Storrar shot down a Ju 87 near Derna. He later saw a Lockheed Lodestar which had made a forced-landing in the desert. He landed and found it to be General Wavell’s personal aircraft. The pilot managed to take off again but Storrar could not restart his own engine and had to return to Tobruk on foot. In Takoradi for a rest, Storrar and four other pilots were ordered to fly a Blenheim and two Hurricanes to Freetown on June 21 1941. Forced by bad weather to make a forcedlanding in the jungle, the pilots had no way of taking off again and they walked 72 miles in two days and three nights, arriving at the Firestone Rubber Plantation, 35 miles from Monrovia, Liberia. Storrar returned to the UK in November 1941 and was posted to 55 OTU, Annan, as OC Gunnery Training Squadron. In January 1943 he took command of 65 Squadron at Drem. On June 29 he probably destroyed a FW 190, on August 18 shot down a Bf 109, on the 31st damaged a FW 190, his final victory. He was awarded a Bar to the DFC (29.10.43) and posted away to 53 OTU on November 15 1943, as an air-firing instructor. In December Storrar was appointed CFI. From April to October 1944 Storrar was in 1697 ADLS Flight, engaged on communications duties to and from the Continent. He commanded 64 Squadron in October/November, 165 Squadron from November 1944 to January 1945 and 234 Squadron from January to March 1945. Storrar was Wing Commander Flying successively at Hunsdon, Digby and Molesworth, from March to August 1945. He flew top cover for Operation Nestegg, the liberation of Jersey on May 9 1945. He then went to a staff job at HQ 12 Group until January 1946, when he went to 239 Wing, Desert Air Force in Italy, leading it until April 1947, when he was released from the RAF, as a Wing Commander. In June 1949 Storrar joined 603 Squadron, RAuxAF and served with it until March 1952. He then went to 610 Squadron, which he commanded from 1954 until its disbandment on March 10 1957. He was a veterinary surgeon in Chester for many years. Storrar died on March 29 1995.

WHITNEY WILLARD STRAIGHT

APO 1.4.39 PO 23.10.39 FO 23.10.40 FL 23.10.41 SL 21.7.45 FL (RAuxAF) 27.7.49

APO (AAF) 9.3.39 PO (AAF) 27.7.39 PO 24.8.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 25.6.41 GC 10.3.43

90680

FO

Pilot

British

601 Squadron

Straight was born in New York on November 6 1912, the son of Major Willard Straight, an Oriental expert. After her husband’s death in 1918, Straight’s mother, one of the wealthy Whitney family, married again and went to England. She and her husband founded the educational, artistic and agricultural community at Dartington Hall, Devon. Straight went to England in 1925 and after education at Dartington Hall, he went to Trinity College, Cambridge, where he took a Moral Sciences Tripos. At that time he flew his own aeroplane and was a well-known racing driver, in his black-and-silver Maserati. In 1935 Straight married, was naturalised as a British subject on July 9 1936, gave up racing and settled down to business. He founded the Straight Corporation, which later took over Western Airways, with the highest frequency of any airline in the world, with 58 services a day. Straight joined 601 Squadron, AAF on March 9 1939 and was called to full-time service on August 24. He was detached from 601 from March 10 to 21 1940 for Special Duties, as per Air Ministry orders and detached again on April 8, again for Special Duties. He sailed with a naval force to Norway on April 15 1940, with the temporary rank of Squadron Leader. His job was to find frozen lakes from which aircraft could operate. After landing on the 17th, he found and organised the clearing of Lake Lesjaskog in time for 263 Squadron to arrive on the 24th. The Germans bombed the lake on the 25th and destroyed most of the Gladiators. Straight was injured in the attack and evacuated to Britain by the Navy. He was temporarily deaf and grounded. Straight was posted from 601 Squadron to HQ ‘X’ Force on May 4 1940, on Squadron Leader Admin duties, with effect from April 14. He was supernumerary at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge from May 10 1940 and on June 26 he was supernumerary at Air Ministry. About this time he was appointed ADC to the Duke of Kent. On August 24 1940 Straight went to HQ Flying Training Command on supernumerary flying duties. He regained his operational category and rejoined 601 Squadron at Exeter on September 28. He destroyed a He 111 on December 12 S of Start Point. For his work in Norway, Straight was awarded the MC (1.1.41). He was appointed a Flight Commander in 601 in early 1941 and he destroyed a Bf 109 over the Channel on February 2. He was posted away from 601 on April 23 1941, to command 242 Squadron at Stapleford Tawney. Straight destroyed a Bf 110 on a night intruder operation over Merville airfield on June 12, he probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the 17th, he shared a Bf 109 on a Blenheim-escort to St Omer on the 21st and probably destroyed two Bf 109s on July 27. He was awarded the DFC (8.8.41). During an attack on a destroyer at Fécamp on July 31 1941, Straight was shot down by light flak. He made a forced-landing in a field, unsuccessfully tried to fire the aircraft and first ran and then walked as far and as fast as he could from the scene. He was prepared for a landing in enemy-occupied territory, with a special jacket, boots, money and a pistol. Straight slept in a barn and caught a train for Paris the next day. He went to the American Embassy but it was closed. He managed to obtain 12,000 francs from the caretaker. Straight crossed into Vichy France and was eventually imprisoned, posing as a British Army officer. He was interned until escaping on June 22 1942. With the help of the Resistance, he reached a beach near Perpignan, from where he was rowed out to a trawler, which took him and other fugitives to Gibraltar. He reached No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge on July 21 1942. He was posted to the Middle East on September 10, as an Acting Air Commodore, going to HQ 216 Group as AOC. Straight returned to the UK in June 1945 and was appointed AOC 46 Group, Transport Command. He was released from the RAF in November 1945, as a Group Captain, retaining the rank of Air Commodore. Straight was awarded the Norwegian War Cross (18.12.42), received a Mention in Despatches (1.1.43), was made a CBE (8.6.44) and an Officer of the US Legion of Merit (15.3.46). He became Managing Director of BOAC in 1947. Straight died on April 5 1979.

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JOHN TALBOT STRANG 40861

FO

Pilot

New Zealander

On November 16 1942 he was part of a ground party, surveying sites for advanced landing grounds. Whilst driving a Jeep, he struck a landmine and was killed instantly. Strawson was awarded the DFC (2.3.43) for his service with 260 Squadron. He is buried in Knightsbridge War Cemetery, Acroma, Libya. The villagers of Low Marnham presented an urn to the local church in his memory, which is still used to fill the font for christenings. Strawson’s youngest brother, Bill, unveiled a plaque to John’s memory in 2000 and dedicated an avenue of lime trees to him at Blyborough, near Lincoln.

253 Squadron

Born in Invercargill on January 25 1914, Strang was educated at Timaru Boys’ High School. He obtained his ‘A’ licence privately at the Canterbury Aero Club. In March 1937 Strang applied for a short service commission in the RAF. He was provisionally accepted and sailed for the UK in the RMS Remuera on February 17 1938. Strang began his ab initio course at No 1 E&RFTS, Hatfield on April 4. After a short induction course at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge, he was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on June 18. With training completed, Strang joined the staff at 7 AOS on August 1 1939, as a staff pilot. He was posted to 92 Squadron at Croydon on December 10 1939. He arrived at 11 Group Pool, St Athan on the 28th and after converting to Hurricanes, he was posted to No 2 Ferry Pilot Pool on January 25 1940. Strang moved to 253 Squadron at Northolt on February 22. In May the squadron began ferrying Hurricanes to France and ‘A’ Flight was detached there on May 18 1940, based at Poix. Strang was in this flight and took part in the actions fought there, following the German invasion of France. He was reported `Missing’ on May 18 and did not rejoin 253 until the 21st. On the 23rd Strang destroyed two Bf 109s in the Merville area. After suffering heavy losses, the flight was withdrawn on May 24. Strang served with 253 throughout the Battle of Britain. He was posted away on December 13 1940, to CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course He went to 6 FTS, Little Rissington on February 11 1941, remaining there until July 26, when he was sent to instruct in South Africa. Strang was initially at 21 Air School and then at 25 Air School. He was posted to Middle East Command on February 28 1942 but his time there was short and he went on to India on March 23. It is not known what he was doing up until April 16 1943, when he was appointed to command 23 Ferry Control. He became CGI at No 1 EFTS at Secunderabad in 1944 and he left India on January 4 1945. Strang returned to the UK and in late April he was repatriated to New Zealand. He was posted to 42 Squadron at Rongotai, as a supernumerary. He transferred to the Reserve on November 3 1945. Strang died on July 17 1979.

PO 4.3.42 FO 1.10.42

VICTOR CHARLES FREDERICK STREATFEILD 27151

SL

Pilot

British

248 Squadron Streatfeild was born on September 26 1905 and joined the RAF on a short service commission in September 1928. He was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on October 1 and with training completed, he joined 3 Squadron at Upavon on September 15 1930. He joined the staff at 4 FTS, Abu Sueir on September 26 1933 and moved to 45 Squadron at Helwan on September 7 1935. He was granted a Permanent Commission on June 1 1936.

Streatfeild was posted to 223 Squadron at Nairobi on December 15 1936 and returned to 4 FTS, Abu Sueir on November 9 1937. Back in the UK, he was given command of No 1 Coast Artillery Co-operation Unit, Gosport on December 5 1938. He joined 248 Squadron at North Coates from Gosport on March 6 1940. Streatfeild took command of the squadron on March 8. He was detached from 248 to RAF Farnborough on July 10 1940 for a short course on High Altitude Physiology. Streatfeild led 248 throughout the Battle of Britain period. He was posted away on January 1 1941, to command the Cambridge University Air Squadron He was made an OBE (29.10.48) for distinguished services in Palestine. Streatfeild was released from the RAF in 1950 as a Squadron Leader. He died on May 12 1983.

APO 4.6.38 PO 4.4.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.1.44

PO 14.9.28 FO 14.4.31 FL 14.4.35 SL 1.10.38 WC 1.12.40

JOHN MAWER STRAWSON

REGINALD ROBERT STRETCH

111875

747953

Sgt

Pilot

British

616 and 603 Squadrons

Sgt

Wop/AG

British

235 Squadron

Strawson was born on July 13 1916 at Stragglethorpe, Nottinghamshire, into a farming family. He was educated at High Pavement School, Nottingham and later went to a school in Ruthin, North Wales.

Born in Southampton on June 1 1920, Stretch joined the RAFVR on May 13 1939. He was called up on September 1, as an Airman u/t Wop/AG. He carried out wireless instruction at Air Service Training at Hamble and No 1 Electrical and Wireless School, Cranwell until the end of June 1940.

He joined the RAFVR on April 18 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741453) and he carried out his elementary flying training at 27 E&RFTS, Tollerton. He flew his first solo on June 11 1938. Called up on September 1 1939, Strawson went to 3 ITW and in May 1940 to 14 FTS, Cranfield. With training completed, he was posted to 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 616 Squadron at Kirton-in Lindsey on September 16. He joined 603 Squadron at Hornchurch on October 3 1940 and flew his first operational sortie on the 7th. At some later date, in combat with Bf 109s, Strawson’s Spitfire was hit and he ditched in the sea, just off a Thames Estuary beach. He waded ashore, injured, and was admitted to the Royal Naval Hospital, Chatham. He rejoined 603 on November 28. He was agaain admitted to hospital on December 13 1940, this time to Southend General Hospital, after colliding with a bus on his motor cycle. He rejoined 603 after a short stay. Strawson crashed when landing at Drem on January 12 1941. On the 24th he was with ‘B’ Flight when it intercepted a Ju 88. He was the only pilot able to fire before the enemy aircraft disappeared into cloud. On May 10 1941 Strawson joined 260 Squadron, then at Drem, preparing to embark for the Middle East. The squadron embarked on the carrier HMS Victorious on the 19th. It transferred to the HMS Ark Royal at Gibraltar and on June 14 it flew off to Malta. After refuelling, 260 took off for Egypt on the 16th and eventually arrived at Haifa, in Palestine on August 10, for air defence duties. 260 combined with 450 (RAAF) Squadron, to carry out ground attacks in the Syrian campaign, on such targets as the Vichy French aifield at Baalbeck. On October 16 1941 260 moved to the Western Desert, to give support to the Army and to escort Allied bombers. In December 1941 Strawson was promoted to Flight Sergeant. In February 1942 the squadron was taken off operations to re-equip with Kittyhawks. Strawson was commissioned in early March and the squadron was back in action, supporting the Army. During August 1941 he led the squadron on twenty-three operational sorties and on twenty-five squadron exercises. Strawson was appointed Acting Squadron Leader on September 22 1942.

Stretch was then posted to 5 B&GS at Jurby. With training completed, he joined 235 Squadron in August. When the squadron converted to Beaufighters in July 1941, Stretch joined 86 Squadron, operating in Beauforts on anti-shipping strikes. In July 1942 he went to 8 OTU, as a gunnery instructor. In December he joined 2 AACU, target-towing in Defiants and flying in Oxfords on night co-operation with anti-aircraft units and searchlights. Stretch remustered to Wireless Operator Mechanic/Air Gunner in April 1944 and was posted to Cranwell. On completion of the course in December, he joined 502 Squadron at Stornaway, operating in Halifaxs on night shipping attacks. In June 1945 Stretch was posted to 279 (ASR) Squadron, with Sea Otters and Warwicks. He was released from the RAF on December 18 1945, as a Warrant Officer. During his operational service, Stretch shot down a Bf 109 and a Ju 88, both confirmed, and three other enemy aircraft, all unconfirmed and not claimed. Stretch died on June 10 2004.

CLAUD DOBREE STRICKLAND 91220

PO

Pilot

British

615 Squadron

Strickland joined 615 Squadron, AAF in 1939. He was called to full-time service on September 1 and commissioned. He was attached to RAF Kenley from 615 on February 5 1940. He was posted from there to 6 EFTS, Sywell on March 7, for elementary flying training. Strickland moved on to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth for No 8 Course, which ran from May 6 to August 12 1940. With training completed, he arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 17. After converting to Hurricanes, Strickland joined 615 Squadron at Prestwick on September 18 1940. Strickland was posted from 615 on December 9, on appointment to the staff of the Chief of Air Staff at the Air Ministry.

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On February 1 1943 he returned to 310 Squadron. His last operational flight was on June 30 1944 after which he was posted on flying instructor duties at 56 OTU, Tealing.. On May 15 1945 he was posted to 313 Squadron where he remained until August. On August 7 he flew one of a group of fifty-four Spitfires back to Czechoslovakia and rejoined the Czech Air Force, in which he attained the rank of Staff Captain. Following the communist takeover, in February 1948, Czech personnel with wartime RAF service were regarded as tainted. On May 31 1948 Strihavka was dismissed from the Czechoslovak Air Force and demoted to the rank of Private. On June 18 1948 he escaped across the border to the American Zone in Germany. The Czechoslovak authorities declared him to be a deserter and stripped him of all his Czechoslovak military medals on August 17. Later he returned to England. He changed his name to P J Scott. He died on July 9 1994 in Cambridge.

He was killed on October 27 1941, as a Flying Officer with 615. He was shot down by flak during an attack on ground targets along the Dutch/Belgian coast. Strickland is buried in Bredene churchyard, Belgium.

JAMES MURRAY STRICKLAND 39581

PO

Pilot

British

615 Squadron

Strickland of Ivybridge, Devon, was born in Iloilo, Philippines in 1918. He was educated at King’s School, Bruton and joined the RAF on a short service commission. He began his ab initio course on December 21 1936. Strickland was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand on March 20 and with training completed, he joined 213 Squadron at Church Fenton on October 23 1937. He was still with 213 in 1940. On May 16 he flew one of six Hurricanes of 213 from Wittering to Lille/Marcq, to reinforce 87 Squadron, which was operating from there. There were no available 87 pilots to fly these aircraft, so Strickland and the other five pilots elected to stay and fight with 87. Only Strickland and one other pilot survived and they rejoined ‘A’ Flight of 213 at Biggin Hill on May 18. The flight flew to France daily on the 19th, 20th, 21st and 22nd, to operate during the day from French airfields and to return to Biggin Hill each evening. Strickland was shot down by Bf 109s on the 19th and baled out, wounded in one arm. He sustained a leg wound when he was fired at by French troops as he floated down.. He did not fly again with 213 until July 11 1940. On August 11 Strickland destroyed a Ju 88. On the 12th he assumed command of ‘B’ Flight and was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant on the 19th. He destroyed a Bf 109 on August 12, destroyed a Bf 110 and a Ju 87 on the 15th, destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another on the 25th, probably destroyed a Ju 88 on September 18 and shared in the destruction of a Bf 110 on September 27. In this engagement his Hurricane, P 3979, was damaged by return fire and he made a crash-landing at Horne, near Redhill, unhurt. Strickland made another crash-landing on October 15, after a combat with a Bf 109 over the Swanage area, injured. It was his final sortie with 213. He was awarded the DFC (22.10.40). On December 17 1940 Strickland was posted to 56 OTU, Sutton Bridge, as an instructor. On August 14 1941 he was involved in a flying accident, as a Flight Lieutenant with 130 Squadron, operating with Spitfires from Portreath. He struck the roof of a dispersal hut there and was killed when his Spitfire crashed. Strickland was 22. He is buried in Ivybridge Cemetery.

PO 6.42 FO 2.43

GEORGE ALFRED STROUD 141736

Pilot

Czechoslovakian

British

504, 32 and 249 Squadrons

He then went to 10 OTU at Bassingbourn, moved to 11 OTU, Benson and joined 150 Squadron at Newton in July 1940, to fly Battles. A call was made in August for pilots for Fighter Command and Stroud volunteered. He was posted to 504 Squadron at Catterick on September 3 1940, moved to 32 Squadron at Acklington on September 16 and finally joined 249 Squadron at North Weald on September 30. On October 29 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged another. On December 5 Stroud was shot down in flames by Bf 109s over the South Coast, in Hurricane V 7677. He baled out and was admitted to Rye Hospital with burns. Stroud later went to Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead for plastic surgery and became a Guinea Pig. He was posted away from 249 in mid-1941, to go to the Middle East. He landed from an aircraft carrier at Takoradi and made his way north in easy stages, eventually joining 33 Squadron at Amriya on August 12. Stroud served with 33 in the Western Desert until January 6 1942, when he was posted to 73 OTU, Sheik Othman, Aden. He destroyed a Fiat G 50 whilst in the Western Desert. Stroud joined the Aden Defence Flight at Khormaksar on October 1 1942. Commissioned from Warrant Officer in January 1943, he returned to 73 OTU, then at Abu Sueir, on February 27. He was posted away on April 2 and joined 274 Squadron on May 22. Stroud moved with the squadron to Italy in early March 1944 and returned to the UK with it in April, arriving at Hornchurch on the 22nd. He was attached to CGS, Catfoss on July 19, went to 53 OTU, Kirton in-Lindsey on September 4 and remained there until November 29 1945. Stroud was sent to 2 FIS, Montrose, for an instructor’s course, on December 6, after which he went to 17 FTS, Spitalgate on July 6 1946. He was released from the RAF in late January 1947 as a Flight Lieutenant. Stroud joined the flying staff at Short Bros, Rochester and instructed in the RAFVR at 24 RFS..

JAROMIR STRIHAVKA F/Sgt

Pilot

Joined the RAFVR in April 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot (745770) and did his weekend flying at 23 E&RFTS, Rochester. Stroud was called to full-time service at the outbreak of war and he completed his flying training at 15 FTS, Lossiemouth.

APO 8.3.37 PO 21.12.37 FO 21.9.39 FL 21 .9.40

121736

Sgt

85 and 310 Sqdns

Strihavka was born on June 7 1914 at Lipnice Trutnov. On October 1 1932 he joined the Military Aviation Academy, at Prostejov, as a cadet. He completed his training in 1934 and was assigned to the 3rd Aviation Regiment at Piestany airbase, Slovakia. In 1938 he was sent as an observation pilot, to the 13th Squadron of the Regiment at Spisska Nova Ves airbase, Slovakia. When the Germans took over Czechoslovakia, on March 15 1939, Slovakia became a ‘puppet state’ and Strihavka was returned to Czechoslovakia. The Czech Air Force was disbanded and he was demobilised two days later. Strihavka escaped to Poland on June 24 and reported to the Czechoslovak Consulate in Krakow. Shortly afterwards, together with other Czechoslovak airmen, he travelled by train to Gdynia form where he sailed to France. On arrival in France, Czech airmen were required to join the French Foreign Legion for a five year period with the agreement that, should war be declared, they would be transferred to French military units. Initially, Strihavka was placed at the Legion barracks at Nanterre, near Paris, awaiting transfer to the training base at Sidi-bel-Abbes, Algeria but, before he could be transferred, war was declared and he was transferred to l’Armee de l’Air at Ecole de Pilotage, at Avord. On January 16 1940 he was transferred to CIC, Chartres for retraining, on to French equipment, which he completed on May 23. He was then posted to Cazaux airfield, near Bordeaux but the French capitulated before he could join an operational unit. He was evacuated by ship from Bordeaux to England. Shortly after his arrival in England he was transferred to the Czechoslovak Airmen’s Depot at Cosford and, on August 2 he was accepted into the RAFVR. He went to 6 OTU at Sutton Bridge for comversion to Hurricanes. He was posted to 85 Squadron. On October 23 he was posted to 310 Squadron. Strihavka stayed with 310 Squdron until August 15 1941 when he was posted to 19 Squadron. On June 12 1942 he returned to 310 Squadron. On June 23 Strihavka’s aircraft was struck by another during a scramble from Bolt Head. He was unhurt. Having completed his tour he was posted to 56 OTU at Sutton Bridge as a flying instructor.

PO 5.1.43 FO 5.7.43 FL 5.1.45 FO (RAFVR) 10.7.47

MICHAEL STUART 902627

AC

Air Gunner

British

23 Squadron

Stuart joined the RAFVR on September 11 1939 and was posted to 23 Squadron at Ford on October 7 1940, as a fitter. He volunteered to fly as a radar operator on one operational sortie, on October 25 1940. He saw no action but thus qualified for the Battle of Britain clasp. In 1943 Stuart was in Iraq. He volunteered for aircrew and in October was posted to 24 BG&NS, Moffat, Rhodesia, for a gunnery course. He qualified and was promoted to Sergeant. Stuart returned to the UK and in January 1945 he went to 3 AGS, Castle Kennedy, on fighter affiliation and was posted to 26 OTU in June. He was released on November 13 1945 as a Flight Sergeant.

SYDNEY GEORGE STUCKEY 516338

Sgt

Pilot

British

213 Squadron

Stuckey, of Bristol, joined the RAF in May 1933, as an Aircrafthand. He later applied for pilot training and was selected. He was serving with 73 Squadron in France from the outbreak of war. On January 25 1940 he damaged a He 111. In early May there were some problems in the squadron. Pilot Officer A B Tucker and

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In early July 1941 Summers’ aircraft made a wheels-up forced-landing on a beach in Liberia. To escape internment, he walked 48 miles in bare feet before putting out to sea and being picked up by a British merchantman on the 5th. For this incident, Summers was awarded the AFM (1.1.42). Commissioned in May 1942, he was posted back to the UK, where he was appointed Bombing Leader on Hudsons at No 1 (Coastal) OTU, Silloth on October 12. Summers was posted to 48 Squadron at Gibraltar on May 22 1943, as Bombing Leader. He returned to the UK and on March 1 1944 became Bombing Leader at No 1 APC, Aldergrove. Summers went on a Specialist Armament Course on April 19, firstly at 2 S of TT, Cosford and from late June at the Empire Air Armament School at Manby. He was appointed Armament Staff Officer at HQ 15 Group, Liverpool on November 17 1944 and he moved to RAF Lossiemouth on August 7 1945, as Station Armament Officer. In October 1946 Summers was posted to the staff of ACAS (Training) at Air Ministry, as an Acting Squadron Leader. Pre-selected for RAF Staff College in 1949, he graduated at the end of 1950 and was appointed Command Weapons Officer at HQ Bomber Command. From August 1953 until January 1956 Summers was Deputy Station Commander at RAF East Leigh, Kenya, during the Mau Mau Emergency. He was made an OBE (6.3.56), for ‘gallant and distinguished services in Kenya’. Back in the UK, Summers returned to flying and commanded 109 Squadron at Binbrook. In December 1956 he was promoted to Acting Wing Commander and took command of No 2 Wing, RAF Cosford. In July 1959 he did a RAF Flying College Course at RAF Manby. In January/March 1960 Summers did a conversion course on Vulcans and was then appointed Wing Commander Operations at RAF Finningley, a Vulcan station. In December 1962 he was posted to the staff of SHAPE in Europe, for ‘nuclear activities’. He returned to the UK in December 1966 and became a staff officer in the Department of the Chief of Defence Staff. Summers retired from the RAF on October 18 1968 as a Wing Commander.

Sergeant-Pilots D A Sewell, Speake and Stuckey were ordered away from Rheims on May 13 1940 to No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge. The squadron ORB stated that ‘these pilots have been adversely reported on by the CO and their respective flight commanders’. Whatever they had done, no action was taken against them and they were posted to other fighter squadrons. Stuckey joined 213 Squadron on May 25. On August 12 1940 he did not return from an action over the Channel, in Hurricane P 2802. He was 26. His name is on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 20.

JOHN ALNOD PETER STUDD 41491

PO

Pilot

British

66 Squadron

Studd, of Paignton, Devon, joined the RAF on a short service commission and began hs ab initio course on October 6 1938, as a pupil pilot. After completing his training, he was posted on August 5 1939 as pilot and PA to the AOC 12 Group, Air Vice-Marshal T Leigh-Mallory. Studd was posted to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on March 1 1940. The unit was redesignated 5 OTU on March 15. After converting to Spitfires, he was posted from 5 OTU on April 6 and he joined 66 Squadron at Duxford on April 14. During the night of June 18/19 1940 Studd probably destroyed a He 111. He shared in the destruction of a He 111, shot down into the sea E of Lowestoft on July 29. On August 19 1940 Studd was shot down by return fire from a He 111 and baled out into the sea. He was picked up by the Aldeburgh lifeboat but failed to regain consciousness. His Spitfire, N 3182, crashed into the sea three miles S of Orfordness. He was 22. He is buried at Holy Trinity, Touchen End, Berkshire.

PO 1.5.42 FO 1.11.42 FL 1.5.44 FL 1.11.45 SL 1.7.51 WC 1.1.58

APO 14.12.38 PO 3.9.39

FRANK SUMNER 327457

Sgt

Air Gunner

British

23 Squadron

JOHN EDWARD SULMAN 81344

PO

Pilot

British

607 Squadron

Sumner was born in Wandsworth, South London on October 12 1902, the sixth son in the family. Another son and a daughter were to join it later.

Sulman, of Hertfordshire, joined the RAFVR about November 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (742653). Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 3 FTS, South Cerney on No 23 Course, which ran from January 31 to June 15 1940.

In February 1919 he joined the RAF, as a Boy Entrant. After a month of basic training, he went to the School of Technical Training at Halton. Two months later he was posted to the Boys’ Mechanics School at Eastchurch, for a metal working course. In November 1920 he went to RAF Old Sarum and worked at his basic ground trade and in late 1921 Sumner decided to volunteer to train as an air gunner. In October 1922 he returned to Eastchurch, to the Armament and Gunnery School, which had recently been established there. He was instructed on the Lewis machine gun. The course ended with air experience, gained in the rear cockpit of the very successful two-seater Bristol Fighter. He passed the course and gained his brass winged bullet badge, to be proudly worn on the right arm of his uniform tunic. In January 1923 Sumner was posted to India and he disembarked at Karachi on February 24. A month later he went to Drigh Road aerodrome, eight miles from Karachi, which was the RAF’s main Air Depot for the region. In October 1924 Sumner joined 28 (Army Co-operation) Squadron at Peshawar, gateway to the Khyber Pass and the North-West Frontier. It was equipped with Bristol Fighters, flying in support of the Army. In late 1926 Sumner returned to the UK and was home for Christmas. With his eightyear service engagement completed, he went on to the Reserve on February 16 1927. He obtained a job with the United Dairies company and used his skills acquired in the RAF. Sumner married his fiancé, Edith, on July 19 1930 and became a father in January 1933, when his first child, Frank, was born. Sumner joined the RAFVR, probably in the latter half of 1937. The family then included a daughter, Jean. He was called up on August 25 1939 and on September 6 he was posted to 64 Squadron at Church Fenton, with Blenheims, as an LAC, Aircrafthand. Sumner began air gunner duties and flew his first operational sortie, a standing patrol, on December 6 1939. When 64 Squadron changed over to Spitfires in April 1940, Sumner flew his final sortie with it on April 8 and he joined 23 Squadron at Wittering on May 20 1940, moving to Collyweston on the 31st. He is known to have flown three operational sorties with 23 Squadron, all night patrols, on August 30 and 31 and September 8, all with Sergeant V W R Penford as pilot. In mid-November 1940 Sumner was given the option of retraining as a radar operator

Sulman was commissioned and joined 607 Squadron at Usworth on June 18. He damaged a He 111 on August 15, he shared in the destruction of two Do 17s on September 15 and damaged a Ju 88 on the 26th. On December 18 1940 Sulman was posted to 96 Squadron, then about to be formed at Cranage. He rejoined 607 later in the month. In February 1941 Sulman was posted to 56 OTU at Sutton Bridge, as a flying instructor. In June 1941 he was instructing at 53 OTU, Heston. Sulman was killed on November 23 1941, as a Flying Officer with 238 Squadron in the Western Desert. He failed to return from a sweep over the El Adem area. Sulman was 25. He is buried in the Knightsbridge War Cemetery, Acroma, Libya. His portrait was done by Cuthbert Orde. PO 18.6.40 FO 18.6.41

RICHARD GORDON BATTENSBY SUMMERS 49629

Sgt

Observer

British

219 Squadron

Summers was born on October 18 1921 in Beverley, East Yorkshire and was educated at Ermysted’s Grammar School at Skipton. He joined the RAF in April 1939, as a directentry Airman u/t Observer (581162). On June 26 he went to the Bristol Flying School, Yatesbury for basic navigation training, moved to B&GS Warmwell on September 30 and then completed his training with an astro navigation course at St Athan in November. On December 4 1939 Summers was posted to Church Fenton, to join 242 Squadron, then equipped with Blenheims. He went to 219 Squadron at Catterick on April 16 1940. Summers left the squadron on September 28, to go to the Ferry Pool and Defence Flight, Takoradi, in West Africa.

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940, converted to Spitfires and he joined 610 Squadron at Acklington on September 23. He was posted to 74 Squadron at Biggin Hill on December 2 1940 but left the squadron on the 15th, for CFS, Upavon, for an instructor’s course. Sutcliffe was killed in a flying accident at Upavon on December 17 1940, flying in an Airspeed Oxford of the CFS, as a Flight Sergeant. The aircraft crashed at Rowde, near Cleeve, Wiltshire, as a result of icing He was 25 and is buried in St Wyllow’s churchyard, Lanteglos-by-Fowey, Cornwall.

or joining Bomber Command. He chose the latter and was posted to 15 OTU, Harwell, for conversion to Wellingtons. He joined 142 Squadron at Binbrook in December 1940, which had just exchanged its Battles for Wellingtons. Sumner, now a rear gunner, joined a crew captained by Wing Commander W Sadler, with Pilot Officer G Bull as second pilot. The squadron became operational at the end of April 1941and flew its first operation on May 3, an attack on Rotterdam. Sumner’s aircraft was W 5440. Bull later became captain, when Sadler was posted away to the Air Ministry. On September 23 1941 Sumner was sent to Parnell’s factory at Bristol for a week’s familiarisation course on Wellington IVs, with a new version of the Frazer Nash tail turret. He was to pass on this information to the other tail gunners in his squadron, before it was re-equipped with the Mark IVs. On rejoining the squadron, he found that his crew had failed to return from a raid on Hamburg the previous evening. September 30. With a few more operations still to do to complete his tour, Sumner joined a new crew, captained by Sergeant A Gilmour. They failed to return from a raid on Hamburg on November 30 1941, in Wellington Z 1292. It was later learned that the aircraft had been shot down over Kiel by German naval artillery and that all six members of the crew had been killed. Sumner is buried in Kiel War Cemetery. Two of his older brothers were killed at the Battle of Jutland on May 31 1916. Alfred was serving as a Signaller on the cruiser, HMS Black Prince. He was 21 and is remembered on the Plymouth Memorial. Horace was serving as a Boy Entrant on the battlecruiser HMS Indefatigable. He was 17 and is remembered on the Portsmouth Memorial. An uncle, Private F Sumner, died on November 5 1917 whilst attached to the Labour Corps from the Queen’s Royal Regiment (West Surrey). He was 38 and he is buried at Sangatte, France.

IAN WELSH SUTHERLAND 72508

AC

Radar Operator

British

604 Squadron

FRANCISZEK SURMA PO

Pilot

Polish

British

19 Squadron

Called to full-time service on September 1 1939, Sutherland completed his training at 11 FTS, Shawbury on No 16 Course, which ran from October 23 1939 to May 11 1940. With training completed, he joined 19 Squadron at Horsham St Faith on May12, direct from 11 FTS. Sutherland was detached from 19 to the Air fighting Development Unit at Northolt from July 8 to 11, for a short Air Fighting Course and also possibly some experimental work on a cannon Spitfire. On July 30 he was again detached to the AFDU. On the 4th Sutherland was a passenger in Blenheim R 3771 of 15 Squadron, engaged in a fighter affiliation exercise with Hurricanes of No 1 Squadron. Whilst taking evasive action at low level, the Blenheim crashed at Norbury, NNE of Whitchurch, Shropshire, killing all four men on board. Sutherland was 21. He is buried in St Michael’s churchyard, Halton, Buckinghamshire.

Sumpter joined the RAF in May 1939, as an Aircrafthand. Presumably, he volunteered for aircrew duties and carried out a short radar course. He joined 604 Squadron and flew only one operational sortie in the Battle of Britain, on September 1 1940. No further service details traced.

76713

Pilot

Sutherland was born at Blean, Kent, his family later moving to Liverpool. He was educated at Merchant Taylors’ School, Crosby and went up to Magdalen College, Oxford, where he read Modern Languages. He learned to fly with the University Air Squadron and was commissioned in the RAFVR in November 1938. Sutherland earned a Rugby Blue in 1938.

CLAUDE HARRY SIDNEY SUMPTER 645776

PO

151, 607, 46 and 257 Squadrons PO (RAFVR) 8.11.38 PO 25.9.39

Surma was born on July 1 1916 in Galcowice, Silesia. He joined the PAF in September 1936 and in September 1939 he was with 121 Eskadra. When Poland fell, he then escaped to France, by way of Romania and Syria.

FRASER BARTON SUTTON 41962

WILLIAM ALFRED SUTCLIFFE Pilot

British

British

56 Squadron

He began his weekend flying at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell. When he went to work for a Nottingham paper, he continued his flying training at 27 E&RFTS, Tollerton. He joined the RAF on a short service commission in February 1939. After completing his training at 2 FTS, Brize Norton, he joined 56 Squadron at North Weald on August 2 1939, direct from 2 FTS. On May 16 1940 ‘B’ Flight of 56, Sutton included, flew to Vitry-en-Artois in France. He shared in the destruction of a Do 17 on the 18th and later on this day he was jumped by a Bf 109, soon after taking off, and wounded in the foot. Sutton managed to return to Vitry. He was sent back to England on May 23. Sutton was at No 1 RAF Depot, Uxbridge as non-effective sick until July 7 1940, when he rejoined 56 Squadron, making his first flight next day, local flying. Sutton claimed a Ju 87 destroyed on July 25, a Bf 110 on August 13, a Bf 109 on the 16th and another Bf 110 on the 26th. He was shot down, possibly by a Spitfire, in combat over the Thames Estuary on August 28 1940 and baled out, seriously burned, from Hurricane R 4198. Sutton was admitted to Canterbury Hospital and later transferred to the RAF Hospital at Halton. After a year in hospital, Sutton was posted to the Middle East. He waited in Cairo for a posting and in November 1941 he set out for Burma. He flew with a group of Hurricanes, led by a Blenheim, the first leg being from Cairo to Lydda. They then flew in easy stages to Mingaladon, Burma, where they joined 136 Squadron, Sutton as a Flight Commander. He probably destroyed two Japanese Army 97 Fighters on February 6 1942. Later in February he took command of 135 Squadron at Mingaladon. He probably destroyed one Japanese bomber and damaged another on the 25th. The squadron was ordered to withdraw on March 5, firstly to Akyab and then to Dum Dum, in India. In mid-April 1942 Sutton was posted to Air HQ Bengal, as a staff officer. He went to the Air Fighting Training Unit at Amarda Road in early 1943, as CFI, remaining there until November, when he was posted to Command HQ Delhi, as Chief Tactics Officer.

PO 24.1.40 FO 1.3.41

Sgt

Pilot

Born in Witney, Oxfordshire on January 28 1919. Sutton’s first job was that of a reporter on a Northampton evening newspaper. He joined the RAFVR in October 1937, as an Airman u/t Pilot (740761).

He arrived in England in January 1940, was sent to RAF Eastchurch and commissioned in the RAFVR on January 27. From June 1 1940 Surma was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. He went to 15 EFTS, Redhill on July 4, for testing and grading after which he arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 18 1940. He converted to Hurricanes and was posted to 151 Squadron at Stapleford on August 20. On the 30th he probably destroyed a He 111. Surma moved to 607 Squadron at Tangmere on September 11 and destroyed a Bf 109 on the 26th. He joined 46 Squadron at Stapleford Tawney on October 18 and then 257 Squadron at North Weald on October 22. He probably destroyed a He 111 on the 28th. Surma was himself shot down on the 29th by Bf 109s and baled out, unhurt. On landing, he was taken for a German, not surprisingly, as he was wearing a Luftwaffe jacket with badges, taken from a wrecked bomber in Poland in September 1939. On December 17 1940 Surma joined 242 Squadron at Martlesham Heath. He left on March 13 1941, to join 308 Squadron at Baginton. On March 26 he shared in probably destroying a Ju 88, on June 27 he damaged two Bf 109s on the ground at Guines airfield. On July 22, September 16 and 20 and October 12 Surma destroyed a total of five Bf 109s and he probably destroyed another on September 27. He was awarded the KW and Bar (10.9.41), a second Bar (30.10.41) and the VM (5th Class)(30.10.41). On November 8 1941 the squadron provided cover for bombers over France. Surma failed to return, probably shot down by flak near Dunkirk, in Spitfire AB 930. He is remembered on the Polish Air Force Memorial at Northolt.

565302

FO

610 Squadron

Sutcliffe, from Middlesex, was educated at Spring Grove Central School. He joined the RAF in January 1931, as an Aircraft Apprentice and passed out in December 1933, as a Metal Rigger. He later served in the Middle East. Sutcliffe later applied for pilot training and was selected. With training completed, he

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After a period in hospital with appendicitis, Sutton rejoined 611 from sick leave on November 23 and was placed on ground duties for a month. He was still awaiting a Medical Board on December 12 and he was posted from 611 to RAF Digby, as non-effective sick. He rejoined the squadron, then at Rochford, on January 5 1941. Sutton damaged an unidentified enemy bomber on February 28 1941, over the Crouch Estuary. He destroyed a Bf 109 over North-Eastern France on July 9. He was killed on a sweep over France on July 23 1941, as a Flying Officer with 611. Suttonwas the last of 611’s pre-war auxiliary officers. He is buried in St Pol War Cemetery, France.

Sutton was appointed to lead a Spitfire Wing in Bengal in April 1944 and at the end of June he became Wing Leader of a Hurricane/Spitfire Wing in the Imphal Valley. Sutton returned to the UK in 1945. He was awarded the DFC (17.8.45). After the war he held a series of appointments and commands at home and overseas. Sutton retired from the RAF on April 23 1966 as a Group Captain. He died on March 16 1988 and is buried in the churchyard extension at Trinity Church, Jersey. APO 15.4.39 PO 3.9.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 17.1.44 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.1.53 GC 1.1.59

APO (AAF) 12.3.39 APO 24.8.39 PO 6.4.40 FO 11.1.41

FREDERICK CHARLES SUTTON 79197

PO

Air Gunner

British

KENWYN ROLAND SUTTON

264 Squadron

36182

FO

Pilot

New Zealander

Joined the RAFVR in April 1940, with a direct-entry commission as an Air Gunner. After gunnery training, Sutton arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 14 and after converting to Defiants, he was posted to 264 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on July 9 1940.

Born in Wellington on May 18 1919, Sutton enrolled in the Civil Reserve of Pilots in October 1937. He applied for a short service commission in the RNZAF later in the year, was accepted and began his elementary flying training at the Wellington Aero Club at Rongotai on April 1 1938.

He was gunner in a Defiant shot down by Bf 109s of JG 26 on August 28. In the engagement he claimed one Bf 109 destroyed and two others damaged. Sutton was attached to 307 Squadron at Jurby from December 3 to 10 1940, to advise, before the recently-formed squadron became operational on December 8. Sutton, flying with the CO of 264, Squadron Leader A T D Sanders, shot down He 111s at night on April 8 and May 11 1941. He was posted away from 264 on May 16 1942 and went to Canada on October 1, as a gunnery instructor. He was released from the RAF in 1945 as a Flight Lieutenant. Sutton died in 1981.

Sutton was posted to Wigram on June 6 and after completing the course in mid-December, he sailed for the UK in the RMS Tainui on February 1 1939. After arrival, he relinquished his RNZAF commission and was granted an RAF short service commission on March 15 1939. He joined 105 Squadron at Harwell on March 28 but when the squadron went to France on September 2 1939, Sutton and several other pilots were left behind because of over-establishment. He went to CGS, Warmwell, as a staff pilot. Sutton was on 98 Squadron at Hucknall by January 18 1940. It moved to France from Finningley on April 16. When the blitzkrieg started on May 10, Sutton was posted to 142 Squadron at Berry-au-Bac. He took part in attacks on German lines of communication, bridges, pontoons and motor transport. On a sortie on June 3, in a chase at tree top level, Sutton’s gunner shot down one enemy aircraft and damaged another. Sutton crash-landed the damaged Battle near Dreux. He received a Mention in Despatches and the gunner was awarded the DFM. The squadron was withdrawn to Waddington on June 15 1940 and Sutton was posted to 264 Squadron at Kirton-in-Lindsey on August 14. He was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down for Defiant training on the 16th and returned to 264 on September 3 and began flying night patrols. Sutton joined 23 Squadron at Ford on May 1 1941, to operate in Havocs on nightintruder sorties. He was appointed a Flight Commander in September 1941 and remained with 23 until February 11 1942, when he was posted for a rest to 287 Squadron at Croydon, on anti-aircraft co-operation duties. He was awarded the DFC (27.3.42). On July 17 Sutton joined 605 Squadron at Ford, as a Flight Commander. In the Dieppe raid on August 19, Sutton led a pre-dawn attack on gun positions, covering the harbour. At the end of January 1943 he was attached to 85 Squadron at Hunsdon, on special duties, plotting long and short range German radar and making daylight intruder sorties over France. He was later posted to the squadron. Returning from a daylight operation on April 2 1943, Sutton was shot down by Canadian anti-aircraft gunners over Hove. He crashed on a railway line S of Hove Cemetery, with severe injuries, which resulted in the loss of his lower leg and left arm. On June 19, fit again, he was posted to HQ Fighter Command on staff duties. In August 1943 Sutton became Station Commander at Llanbedr. He received a Mention in Despatches (14.1.44). Using a special arm attachment he flew Magisters and Oxfords. Sutton transferred to the RNZAF on March 16 1944. He was posted from Llanbedr in November 1945, to be Squadron Leader Admin at Hutton Cranswick. On July 1 1946 he went to 61 OTU, Keevil in a similar job. Sutton sailed for New Zealand in April 1947 and was released from the RNZAF on August 1. In 1950 he joined the National Airways Corporation and retired in 1980. He is believed to have died in 2004.

APO 20.4.40 PO 15.5.40 FO 15.5.41 FL 15.5.42

HAROLD ROBERT SUTTON 49294

Sgt

Pilot

British

264 Squadron

235 Squadron

Born on June 10 1914, Sutton was educated at Addey and Stanhope School. He joined the RAF on September 1 1931, as an Aircraft Apprentice (565658). He qualified as a Metal Rigger at No 1 S of TT in August 1934 and was posted to 111 Squadron at Northolt. In October 1935 Sutton was with 41 Squadron at Aden, at the time of the Abyssinian crisis. The squadron returned to the UK in August 1936 and Sutton was posted to the Oxford University Air Squadron at Abingdon, as a Rigger. Sutton went to Henlow for a Fitter 1 course, after which he joined 75 Squadron at Honington, as an LAC. In September 1938 he was posted to the Long Range Development Unit. His long-submitted application for pilot training was approved and on February 6 1939 Sutton began his ab initio course at 11 E&RFTS, Perth. On May 1 he moved to 2 FTS, Brize Norton and with training completed, he joined 235 Squadron at Manston on November 6 1939, soon after its reformation, as a Sergeant-Pilot. Still with the squadron in 1940, Sutton was on a submarine-escort operation on October 16, when he sighted and destroyed a He 60 floatplane. In mid-March 1941 he was posted to 24 (Communications) Squadron at Hendon, was commissioned in June 1942 and remained with the squadron until September 1944, then going to 109 OTU, a Dakota conversion unit. During his time with 24 Squadron, Sutton flew Lord Trenchard thirty-five times. In December 1945 he went to HQ 47 Group, Hendon and in February 1946 went to India, as Engineering Officer at Jiwani. Sutton stayed in the RAF on an extended commission, retiring on November 28 1953 as a Flight Lieutenant. He died on December 29 1998.

APO 20.6.38 PO 15.3.39 FO 3.9.40 FL 3.9.41 SL 1.1.44

PO 15.6.42 FO 15.12.42 FL 15.6.44 FL 15.12.45

NORMAN SUTTON 84033

PO

Pilot

British

611 and 72 Squadrons

JAMES ROLAND GABERT SUTTON 90758

PO

Pilot

British

611 Squadron

Sutton, born on July 13 1914, lived originally in Bradford, where he was educated at Belle Vue High School. The family later moved to St Helens and Sutton became wellknown locally as a sportsman and played for the St Helens Rugby Union Football Club. He was also active in local politics and worked as a clerk in the Sales Department of Pilkington Brothers, the glass manufacturers.

Sutton, of Devon, joined 611 Squadron, AAF in early 1939 and was commissioned in March. He was called to full-time service on August 24. He was posted to 2 FTS, Brize Norton for No 42 Course, which ran from October 9 1939 to March 23 1940. With the course completed, he rejoined 611 Squadron from 2 FTS, on April 6 1940.

Sutton joined 611 Squadron, AAF at Speke before the war as an Aircrafthand (811138). He was mobilised on August 24 1939 and he was on the squadron strength on the 26th as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was posted from Speke to 11 EFTS on October 21 1939, to carry out his ab initio

On July 2 Sutton shared in the destruction of a Do 17. He crashed on landing at Ternhill on September 28 and suffered slight facial injuries. The Spitfire, P 7369, was written off. Sutton shared in destroying two more Do 17s on October 11.

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

CHARLES SYDNEY

training. In February 1940 he was an LAC u/t Pilot. Sutton moved on to 15 FTS, Lossiemouth for No 8 Course, which ran from May 6 to August 12 1940. Having completed his training, he was commissioned on August 17 and he rejoined 611 Squadron, then at Digby. He was immediately attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down, to convert to Spitfires. The attachment ceased on September 9 and Sutton rejoined 611. When the squadron moved to Ternhill, Sutton was posted to 72 Squadron at Biggin Hill on the 29th. He was killed on October 5 after colliding with Sergeant R C J Staples, shortly after taking off from Biggin Hill. His Spitfire, K 9989, crashed and burned out. Sutton was 26 years old. He is buried in St Helens Cemetery, St Helens, Lancashire. His father, Oliver Sutton, had served with the RFC and RAF in the Great War.

564940

Pilot

British

54 Squadron

Born on November 10 1915, Swanwick was in 504 (Special Reserve) Squadron at Hucknall, Nottinghamshire in the mid 1930s. (604206). He qualified as an air gunner in Westland Wallaces and later flew in Hinds.

748418

Sgt

Pilot

British

JOHN HUMPHREY CHARLESWORTH SYKES Sub-Lieutenant (FAA)

ALBERT THOMAS SWORD-DANIELS British

64 Squadron

Sykes was attached to 5 OTU, Aston Down on June 23 and he was attached officially to the RAF on June 29 1940. He crashed in Spitfire R 6684 on the aerodrome on July 1, unhurt. He joined 64 Squadron at Kenley on July 8 and flew his last sortie with 64 on July 19. Sykes probably went to 760 (Fleet Fighter Pool) Squadron on July 20, for fleet fighter training before joining 807 Squadron on September 15 1940. Sykes went with the squadron to Dekheila in Egypt in November 1940 and flew on operations in the Western Desert. He later joined 806 Squadron in Ceylon and took part in the Madagascar landings in HMS Indomitable. He also took part in the defence of the Naval Base at Colombo on April 5 1942, when it came under attack by a powerful Japanese force. He served as Air Gunnery Officer in Coimbatore, India in 1944; at RNAS Nowra in 1948; at the RN Carrier School at HMS Albatross in 1949; at Yeovilton in 1952 and finally at HMS Centaur. On July 29 1958 Sykes retired as a Lieutenant Commander. .

PO 17.4.41 FO? FL 2.43

Air Gunner

British

141 Squadron

He completed his training and then joined 141 Squadron at Grangemouth in July 1940 and served with it throughout the Battle of Britain. Commissioned on April 17 1941, Swanwick flew his last operational sortie with 141 Squadron on July 1 1941. He survived the war and is recorded as coming off the Reserve on March 6 1956.

PO

Pilot

Sykes entered the Air Branch of the Royal Navy on July 1 1939, rated as a Midshipman. He carried out his elementary flying training at 14 EFTS, Elmdon and moved on to No 1 FTS, Leuchars for No 8 Course, from January 15 to June 22 1940.

Swanwick, of Nottingham, joined the RAFVR in September 1939, as an Airman u/t Air Gunner.

77127

145 Squadron

He is believed to have made a forced-landing at Holmer Green, near Amersham on October 27, after a combat with Bf 109s. His Hurricane, N 2494, was a write-off. On November 7 1940 Sykes was shot down by a Bf 109 of JG 2. He crash-landed near Ventnor, slightly injured, in Hurricane P 2924. Promoted to Warrant Officer on January 1 1942, Sykes was released from the RAF in 1946.

NEWTON THOMAS CHUMLEIGH SWANWICK Air Gunner

British

Sykes joined the RAFVR about May 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he completed his training at 8 FTS, Montrose on No 18 Course, which ran from April 9 to July 20 1940. He arrived at 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge on July 22. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 145 Squadron at Drem on August 20.

PO 7.10.41 FO 10.7.42 FL 10.7.43 SL 1.8.47 WC 1.1.60

Sgt

19, 266 and 92 Squadrons

DUNCAN BROADFORD SYKES

On May 18 1936 504 became part of the AAF and Swanwick’s new number was 815016. On October 31 1938 the squadron converted to a fighter unit, with Gauntlets. The air gunners began to leave but some were persuaded to stay, to train as NCO pilots. Swanwick was one of these and began his training as an Airman u/t Pilot on March 4 1939. He was awarded his flying badge in August and promoted to Sergeant. He was called to full-time service on August 24 1939 and after completing his training, he arrived at 12 Group Pool, Aston Down on March 11 1940 and was posted to 7 B&GS on April 6, as a staff pilot. Swanwick arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on September 2 1940. He converted to Spitfires and joined 54 Squadron at Catterick on September 16, making his first flight on the 19th. On October 27 Swanwick shared in damaging a Ju 88. He was posted away from 54 on December 21 1940, to join 41 Squadron at Hornchurch. Commissioned in October 1941, he was posted to 222 Squadron at North Weald in April 1942, as a Flight Commander. In July 1942 Swanwick joined 603 Squadron in Malta, as ‘A’ Flight Commander. He went to 71 OTU at Port Sudan, from 603, on September 6 1942, again as a Flight Commander. In July 1943 he joined 81 Squadron in Malta, as a supernumerary. Swanwick was invalided to the UK in August and after he was discharged from hospital in March 1944, he held various staff appointments until the end of the war. Swanwick was granted a Permanent Commission in 1949 and retired on April 30 1970 as a Wing Commander. He died on January 4 2011.

935976

British

With training completed he was posted to No 1 AACU. From there he was posted to 54 Squadron at Hornchurch on September 6 1939. Sydney moved to 66 Squadron at Duxford on September 28. At some later date he went to 6 OTU, Sutton Bridge, as an instructor. On August 18 1940 Sydney joined 19 Squadron at Fowlmere. He moved to 266 Squadron at Wittering on the 24th and to 92 Squadron at Biggin Hill on September 10. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on the15th. Sydney was shot down and killed in combat with enemy aircraft on September 27. His Spitfire, R 6767, crashed at Kingston-on-Thames. He was 25 and is buried in St Mary Cray Cemetery, Orpington, Kent.

GEORGE WILLIAM SWANWICK Sgt

Pilot

Sydney, of St Mary Cray, joined the RAF in September 1930, as an Aircraft Apprentice and passed out in August 1933, as a Metal Rigger. He later applied for pilot training and was selected.

PO 17.8.40

118533

F/Sgt

25 Squadron

Midshipman 1.7.39 Lt-Cdr 14.9.50

Sword-Daniels joined the RAFVR in January 1940, with a direct-entry commission as an Air Gunner. He went to 7 B&GS for No 5 Air Gunnery Course, from January 13 to March 2 1940.

Acting Sub-Lt 20.5.40

Sub-Lieutenant 20.9.40

Lt 14.9.42

EDMUND JOHN HILARY SYLVESTER 90556

With training completed, he was with 25 Squadron at North Weald by June 1940. He was attached to AFDU, Northolt on August 29 and rejoined 25 on September 2. He was promoted to Acting Flying Officer on October 30. He was released from the RAF in 1947 as a Squadron Leader.

PO

Pilot

British

501 Squadron

Born at Trowbridge, Wiltshire on January 13 1914, Sylvester was at Harrow School from 1928 to 1930. He was commissioned in 501 Squadron, AAF in January 1939 and called to full-time service on August 24 1939. No training details have been traced.

APO 13.1.40 PO 2.3.40 FO 2.3.41 FL 2.3.42

501 went to Betheniville in France on May 10 1940. Sylvester claimed a He 111

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MEN OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN

Squadron at Acklington but rejoined 303 Squadron at Ballyhalbert on the 21st. He was appointed a Flight Commander on July 6 1944 and was posted away to the PAF Depot at Blackpool on October 17. Szaposznikow returned to 16 FTS on November 15. He was awarded a second Bar to the KW (30.12.44). He was released from the PAF in late 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. Szaposznikow was awarded a third Bar to the KW (31.10.47) and the Silver Cross of Merit (16.5.48). After the war he settled in Britain and changed his name to Sharman. He died in July 1991.

destroyed and shared in the destruction of a Do 17 with Sergeant P C P Farnes on the 12th. He shared in the destruction of another Do 17 on the 14th. The squadron moved to Anglure on the 16th. Sylvester damaged a Do 17 on the 25th. He failed to return from a patrol on this day, being last seen diving, with engine smoking. Sylvester turned up the next day, having made a forced-landing after his aircraft was damaged by return fire from a Do 17 and flak. He probably destroyed a Bf 110 on the 27th. Moving ahead of the advancing Germans, 501 went to Le Mans on June 2 and on to Dinard on the 11th. The squadron was withdrawn to Jersey on the 17th and it re-assembled at Croydon on the 21st. Sylvester was lost on July 20, in Hurricane P 3082, shot down by Leutnant Zirkenbach of I/JG 27 into the Channel, in the Lyme Bay area. He is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 10. Sylvester was awarded the DFC (25.4.41), with effect from June 27 1940.

PO 1.11.41 FO 1.11.42 FL 1.11.44

HENRYK SZCZESNY 76781

PO

Pilot

JOHN EDWARD SYMONDS Sgt

Observer

British

236 Squadron

Symonds joined the RAFVR in August 1939, as an Airman u/t Observer (759180). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training and joined 236 Squadron at St Eval in September 1940.

In the fighting in September 1939, he probably destroyed a Do 17 and damaged another on the 2nd and destroyed two He 111s on the 14th and 15th. He was wounded in the leg. Evacuated to Romania, he was in hospital in Bucharest and later escaped on a Greek ship, which took him to Malta. Szczesny went to France, then to England. He was commissioned in the RAFVR at RAF Eastchurch on February 20 1940. In May he was at Manston, in charge of a platoon of Polish cadets and from June 1 1940 he was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool. Szczesny went to 15 EFTS, Redhill in early July, for testing and grading. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down about July 20 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 74 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 5. He claimed a Do 17 destroyed on the 13th, a Bf 110 on September 11, shared a Do 17 on October 5, claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on December 1, another damaged on the 2nd and one destroyed on the 5th. Szczesny was posted to 257 Squadron at North Weald on the 12th but joined 242 Squadron at Martlesham Heath on the 17th and, finally, he moved to 302 Squadron’s Operations Room on December 19. Awarded the KW and Bar (1.2.41), Szczesny returned to operations on February 24 1941, when he joined 317 Squadron at its formation at Acklington. He was awarded two more Bars to the KW (1.4.41), shared a Bf 109 destroyed on July 10, shared a Ju 88 on the 14th and took command of the squadron on August 18 1941. Szczesny was awarded the VM (5th Class)(15.9.41) and the DFC (30.10.41). He was posted away on March 7 1942, to be Polish Liaison Officer at HQ 10 Group, moving to HQ 12 Group on May 12. Szczesny was appointed Squadron Leader Flying of the Polish Wing at Northolt on December 28 1942. He was leading the Wing on April 4 1943, escorting American bombers detailed to attack the Renault factory near Paris. On the way back, they were attacked by FW 190s. Szczesny shot one down and collided with another. He baled out and was captured by a German patrol, awaiting his landing. At some time later he was held in Stalag Luft 3 (PoW No 1229). After being freed in late April 1945, Szczesny returned to the UK. He was later posted to RAF Coltishall and attached to HQ 12 Group for liaison duties. In late 1946 he did a course at the School of Administration and Accountancy at Hereford and then went to 4 RU, East Wretham, as Senior Admin Officer. Szczesny stayed on in the RAF, in the Fighter Control Branch. He retired on March 27 1965, as a Flight Lieutenant, retaining the rank of Squadron Leader. He died in London on July 25 1996.

He was a member of the crew of a Blenheim, damaged by return fire from a BV 138 flying boat, engaged off South-West Ireland on November 30. After returning to St Eval, Symonds and the pilot, Sergeant J D Keynes, were admitted to Truro Hospital, with shell splinter wounds Commissioned in August 1941, Symonds was released from the RAF in 1947, as a Flight Lieutenant. He later rejoined the RAFVR. PO 19.8.41 FO 19.8.42 FL 19.8.43 FO (RAFVR) 26.5.49

WILHELM SZAFRANIEC 781312

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

151, 607 and 56 Squadrons

Born on December 1 1915, Szafraniec arrived in England in early 1940 and enlisted in the RAFVR on March 12 at RAF Eastchurch. From June 1 1940 he was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. He went to No 1 School of Army Co-operation at Old Sarum for the 4th Polish Pilots’ Course on August 12, for testing and grading. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down on August 19, converted to Hurricanes and joined 151 Squadron at Stapleford Tawney on the 12th, moved to 607 Squadron at Usworth on the 29th and finally went to 56 Squadron at Boscombe Down on October 14. Szafraniec was killed on November 23 1940, after colliding with Pilot Officer T F Guest, during a formation practice near Middle Wallop. Szafraniec was in Hurricane V 7569. Guest landed unhurt. He is buried in Amesbury Cemetery, Wiltshire.

EUGENIUSZ SZAPOSZNIKOW P 1653

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

74 Squadron

Born in Ruszkow, Warsaw on March 27 1910, Szczesny joined the PAF in 1931. He went to the Cadet School at Deblin and was commissioned in 1933, joining the 5th Air Regiment and later moving to the 3rd Air Force Regiment, as a fighter pilot.

APO (AAF) 5.1.39 PO 24.8.39

103539

Polish

303 Squadron

Szaposznikow was born on July 17 1916 and was in the PAF before the war. In the fighting in Poland in September 1939 he was serving with 111 Eskadra and was credited with probably destroying a He 111.

PO 20.2.40 FO 1.3.41 FL 1.9.42 FL 1.7.46 After the fall of Poland, Szaposznikow made his way to France and joined l’Armée de l’Air. In June 1940 he was with Groupe de Chasse II/6 and on the 15th he shared in destroying a Hs 126. When France collapsed, he escaped to England, arriving in Liverpool on July 7 1940. He was at Beeston Castle, Cheshire until July 13, when he went to 7 S of TT. He went to the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool on July 19, to await a posting. He joined 303 Squadron at Northolt at its formation on August 2 1940, direct from 3 S of TT, and converted to Hurricanes on the squadron. Szaposznikow claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on the 31st, a Do 17 and another Bf 109 destroyed on September 7, two Bf 110s on the 11th, two Bf 109s on the 23rd and 27th and a Bf 109 destroyed and another damaged on October 7. Szaposznikow was awarded both the KW and the VM (5th Class)(23.12.40) and a Bar to the KW (1.2.41). On May 14 1941 he was posted to 8 FTS, Montrose, as an instructor. Szaposznikow was awarded the DFM (30.10.41) and commissioned in November. On January 4 1942 he was sent to the FIS, Church Lawford for an instructor’s course, after which he was posted to 16 FTS, Newton. Szaposznikow returned to operations on December 14 1943. He was posted to 316

JOZEF SZLAGOWSKI 780712

Sgt

Pilot

Polish

234 and 152 Squadrons

Born at Koscieryzyna on January 5 1914, the son of the local stationmaster. After leaving school, Szlagowski became an apprentice electrician. He joined the PAF in March 1934 and after completing his training at Torun, he was posted to a fighter squadron. In 1937 Szlagowski was appointed an instructor at the Officer Cadet School at Deblin. He was there at the outbreak of war and later escaped to Romania in a light aircraft, with his mechanic. They boarded a boat for Beirut, then got one going to Marseilles. On February 16 1940 he joined l’Armée de l’Air. He was sent to England for a course on March 9 and did not return to France.

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married an English lady, settled in Britain and worked for Wilkinson Sword. He died on December 4 1993.

Szlagowski was at Eastchurch/Manston from March 1940 and he was enlisted in the RAFVR. From June 1 he was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. In early July he was sent to 15 EFTS, Redhill, for testing and grading. He went to 5 OTU, Aston Down about July 20 1940 and converted to Spitfires. He joined 234 Squadron at St Eval on August 4. After running out of petrol during a routine patrol on the 8th, he made a forced-landing at Pensilva, wrecking Spitfire N 3278. On this day he shared in damaging a Do 17. Szlagowski claimed a Bf 110 and a Do 17 destroyed on September 4 and he damaged a Bf 110 on October 7. He was posted to 152 Squadron at Warmwell on October 21 1940 and moved to 303 Squadron at Northolt on March 4 1941. He was awarded the KW (1.2.41). On a Blenheim-escort to Holland on March 13, the tailplane and rudder of Szlagowski’s aircraft were severely damaged in collision with another Spitfire. He managed to get back to Northolt. On June 23 1941 he probably destroyed a Bf 109 and two days later he was posted away to No 1 AGS, Manby, as a staff pilot. On December 23 1941 Szlagowski was sent to CFS, Upavon for an instructor’s course. He joined the staff at 16 FTS, Newton on February 2 1942 and became Airfield Controller there on July 22 1943. He went on a twin-engine refresher course at Newton on September 14 1944 and then became a staff pilot there. Szlagowski was released from the PAF in November 1946, as a Warrant Officer. He

WLADYSLAW SZULKOWSKI 76747

PO

Pilot

Polish

65 Squadron

Born on November 6 1909, Szulkowski arrived in Britain in late 1939 and was commissioned in the RAFVR at RAF Eastchurch in January 1940. From June 1 he was at the Polish Wing at 3 S of TT, Blackpool, to await a posting. In early July he went to 15 EFTS, Redhill, for testing and grading. He arrived at 5 OTU, Aston Down about July 20 and after converting to Spitfires, he joined 65 Squadron at Hornchurch on August 5. Szulkowski claimed a Bf 109 destroyed on the 22nd. He was posted to 315 Squadron at Acklington at its formation on January 21 1941. He was awarded the KW (1.2.41). Szulkowski was killed in a mid-air collision with Sergeant Paterek (q.v.), who was also killed, on March 27 1941, in Hurricane V 7188, as a Flight Lieutenant with 315 Squadron. He is buried in West Derby Cemetery, Liverpool. PO 27.1.40 FO 1.3.41

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T GEORGE WILLIAM TABOR 754844

Sgt

Pilot

British

Tait joined 257 Squadron at Coltishall on July 6 1941, as a Flight Commander. On August 4 he failed to return from an operational reconnaissance over the North Sea. It is believed that he was detailed to attack E-boats and was shot down whilst doing so. Tait is remembered on the Runnymede Memorial, Panel 29.

65 and 152 Squadrons

Tabor, from Woodford Bridge, Essex, joined the RAFVR about August 1939, as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up on September 1, he did his ab initio training at 12 EFTS, Wick.

APO 9.1.38 PO 28.10.38 FO 28.5.40 FL 28.5.41

He moved on to 5 FTS, Sealand for No 48 Course, which ran from May 27 to August 10 1940. He arrived at 7 OTU, Hawarden on August 10 and after converting to Spitfires he joined 65 Squadron at Turnhouse on September 2. Tabor moved to 152 Squadron at Warmwell on October 9. His Spitfire, N 3176, was damaged in a surprise attack by Bf 109s over Portland on November 10 and Tabor landed back at base on a burst tyre, unhurt. Tabor joined 603 Squadron at Rochford on June 30 1941. He probably destroyed a Bf 109 on July 6, destroyed two Bf 109s on the 8th and destroyed another on the 21st. He was killed on July 23 1941 as a Flight Sergeant. His Spitfire, W 3184, was the only one which failed to return from an evening Blenheim-escort to Béthune. Tabor was 21 years old and was one of three pilots lost by 603 on that day. He is buried in Longuenesse Souvenir Cemetery, St Omer, France.

JAMES MacGILL TALMAN 77101

FO

Pilot

New Zealander

Pilot

British

151, 213 and 145 Squadrons

Talman, of Bearsden, near Glasgow, was born on February 11 1918 and attended Glasgow High School, where his father was Rector. Talman was an outstanding sportsman and CSM of the school cader corps. He joined the RAFVR in April 1938, as an Airman u/t Pilot (741427). Called up on September 1 1939, he completed his training at 10 FTS, Ternhill on No 13 Course, which ran from September 9 to November 6 1939, for advanced training only. He joined 98 Squadron at Hucknall on February 5 1940. The squadron w