The following is a list with biographies of the 249 people who attended Malvern College and died due to the Second World War. There is also a corresponding page commemorating the 459 casualties in the First World War.
The fallen are commemorated at Malvern with the statue of St. George, which is inscribed 'To Our Brothers', and the names themselves are written on a marble memorial in the Ante-Chapel.
After the Phoney war had ended, there was not a month from May 1940 to May 1945, that an Old Malvernian did not lose their life, though unlike the First World War there were not major spikes in losses on a particular day or month.
5 were killed in the Battle of Dunkirk at the end of May 1940, and 4 during the Battle of Britain between July and October 1940.
3 OMs lost their lives during the Blitz between September 1940 and May 1941.
21 lost their lives in the Western Desert Campaign between June 1940 to February 1943 with 5 buried at El Alamein War Cemetery and 6 commemorated at the Alamein Memorial.
4 were killed during the Allied invasion of Sicily between July and August 1943, and 5 at the Battle of Monte Cassino between January and May 1944 with 8 commemorated at the Cassino Memorial And Cemetery.
8 were killed after the D-Day landings during Operation Overlord between June and August 1944, and 2 in Operation Market Garden in September 1944.
In South-East Asia, 2 were killed during the Japanese-Thai occupation of Malaya between Dec 1941 and Jan 1942, 4 were killed during the Japanese occupation of Singapore in February 1942, and 7 were killed during the Burma Campaign between 1942 and 1945.
Most (97) OMs served in the R.A.F. with many in Bomber Command. 22 are commemorated at Runnymede Memorial as they have no known grave.
14 served in the Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve, 5 in the Royal Navy, 31 in the Royal Artillery, and 4 in the Royal Tank Regiment, with the remainder disbursed among 75 other units.
George Chesterton in the Remembrance Day Service of 2009, having described the lives and loss of five of his friends, reflected:
'Some of these brave men have no known grave, but we must remember them, along with all the tens of thousands of others, who gave their lives for their homelands and their friends. It is thanks to them that all of us sit in this Chapel, from a wide variety of countries and backgrounds and are able to sit together in security and friendship.'
The information below is based on 'The Malvern College Register, Second Supplement, 1949' edited for the Malvernian Society by F. W. Roberts, the 'The Malvernian' school magazine, and 'Malvern College: A 150th Anniversary Portrait' by Roy Allen.
Further information was also obtained from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission website, the Unit War Diaries held at the National Archives in Kew, and various online commemorative websites whose links have been provided.
Below is a map showing the locations of the 126 cemeteries where Old Malvernians are buried or commemorated in. The markers are coloured yellow for one casualty, orange for between 2 and 4, and red for 5 or more. The name of the cemetery and number of casualties can be seen by hovering over the marker, and the list of names seen by clicking on the marker. Their full biographies can be seen by clicking on 'Further Info'.
The records can be filtered and/or sorted by surname, house, age, regiment, date, place etc by clicking on the appropriate drop down box and then the 'Search' button below the map.
Son of Cecil Philip and Violet Marianne Adcock, of Redhill, Surrey.
Mod Lan VI. Hansell French (3) and German (2). Chance Prize (2). School Prefect. Head of House. Football XI.
St John's College, Cambridge.
Husband of Penelope Adcock.
61 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Hampden medium bombers and took part in the first bombing raid on Berlin (25/26 August 1940). It converted in July 1941 to Manchesters.
His aircraft, L7494, had taken off at 17.42 from Woolfox Lodge. It was part of a force of 19 aircraft consisting of Manchesters, Wellingtons and Hampdens tasked to attack Boulogne. It was the only aircraft lost. The Avro Manchester aircraft exploded and crashed, cause not recorded, into the sea off Boulogne.
Details of final flight
Son of Lieut. Thomas Arthur Apperson, R.N.R., and Marjorie Apperson, of 24 Roland Gardens, South Kensington, London.
Sci V.
A.M.I.E.E. (Associate Member of Institution of Electrical Engineers)
Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
Gravestone Inscription at Ancona: “BLESSED ARE THE PURE IN HEART: FOR THEY SHALL SEE GOD. ST. MATTHEW V.8.”
Son of Capt. Henry M. Appleton and Maud Appleton,
Husband of Yvonne Marjarie Appleton, of Marandellas, Southern Rhodesia.
C.B.E., D.S.O., D.F.C., Croix de Guerre, Czech War Cross.
124 Wing. Royal Air Force.
Inscription: “DEATH IS ONLY AN HORIZON" 77 SQUADRON, 604 SQUADRON, TANGMERE. 322 WING, 124 WING”
'No. 124 Wing RAF was a Hawker Typhoon formation comprising of No. 137 Squadron RAF, No. 181 Squadron RAF, No. 182 Squadron RAF and No. 247 Squadron RAF.
On 10 June 1944 the wing took part in the Attack on Panzer Group West's headquarters at La Caine with 40 rocket-armed Typhoons which attacked in three waves from low altitude.'
Wikipedia
'Air Ministry, 5th August, 1941. ROYAL AIR FORCE. The KING has been graciously
pleased to approve the following awards in recognition of gallantry displayed in
flying operations against the enemy: — Distinguished Service Order:
Wing
Commander Charles Henry APPLETON, D.F.C. (24139), No. 604 Squadron.
This officer
has commanded the squadron since February, 1941, and by his sound organisation,
drive, energy, and high skill in flying has enabled it to attain a splendid
record in night fighting. Whilst under his inspiring leadership, the squadron
has destroyed at least 45 enemy aircraft at night and damaged many others.. He
has personally destroyed two and damaged two enemy aircraft.'
London Gazette
Combat reports in May 1941 over the South of England and Flintshire
'Group Captain CHARLES HENRY APPLETON was pilot of Hawker Typhoon 1b MN928 'G' of 247 (Royal Air Force) Squadron. His aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire (flak) near Flers on Saturday the 12th August 1944. He was a Rhodesian pilot and had only one leg'.
Fallenheroesofnormandy.org
Son of William Morton Eden, 5th Baron Auckland, and of Lady Auckland (nee Hutton).
Husband of Lady Auckland (nee Hart).
'Frederick Colvin George Eden (7.12), Sixth Baron Auckland, was killed in an air-raid on London in April, 1941. He was an Associate of the Institution of Naval Architects, an expert on the taming of wild animals and an air pilot. In the last war he served as a flying instructor. At the outbreak of the present war he joined the R.A.F.V.R. and last year was assistant to the Air Attache in Paris.' (Malvernian, Jul 1941).
'Heavy Casualties and considerable damage were sustained in Wednesday night's air attack on London. The raid, which lasted for almost the whole duration of the hours of darkness, was the most fierce ever delivered on the capital.
The German High Command describes it as a 'reprisal for the British raid on Berlin and Potsdam' last week, and Nazi spokesmen refer to it as of 'hitherto unheard-of dimensions.' The Germans claim that a hundred thousand incendiary bombs were dropped.
Among prominent people killed were Lord Stamp, Chief Economic Adviser, and Lord Auckland, a former Assistant to the British Air Attache in Paris.'
(Dumfries and Galloway Standard, 19 April 1941).
Gravestone photograph
Brookwood military cemetery
Son of Francis William and Ellen Catherine Balston, of Maidstone, Kent.
Math. VI.
Trinity College, Cambridge. B.A. (3rd Cl. Mech. Sci Trip.) 1934.
In business.
Husband of Penelope Balston.
500 Sqdn. Royal Air Force (Auxiliary Air Force)
The squadron was part of RAF Coastal Command flying Anson Mk.Is in general reconnaissance.
'From school he went to Trinity College, Cambridge, and later into business in Kent. While at Cambridge he joined the Air Force Reserve and later the Auxiliary Air Force, and so had been flying for about seven years, when he was killed in an accident over the North Sea in April, 1940. In 1934, he stroked the First Trinity "A" Crew, which won the Visitors' Challenge Cup at Henley; he was also interested in ocean racing and took part in many sailing competitions. "No one who knew Peter Balston at all well could have helped loving him, for behind his perpetual high spirits and apparent levity it was easy to see the man of strong purpose, high integrity and great kindliness. A number of letters which I have seen testify to this and to his popularity with all those who worked at Springfield Mills, Maidstone. His was a gay, gallant and most attractive nature." (R.B.P.)' (Malvernian, July 1940).
NB: He is mentioned as being in 500 squadron at CWGC but there is no mention of a Balston in the 500 squadron operational war diaries for March 1940.
Son of Reginald Henry and Frances Octavia Bennett, c/o Miller & Co, Moscow
School Prefect.
1914-18. Lieut. R.F.C.
In business in Riga.
Husband of Marjorie Bennett.
In the First World War on 14 February 1917 he was with 2 Squadron RFC on artillery observation at around 1100 when they were jumped by Baron Von Richthofen (the Red Baron) who opened fire at 50m and then fired ‘several hundred’ rounds at his machine BE2 26231, until it crashed in the German trenches near Cite St Auguste. 2nd Lieutenant Herbert Arthur Croft was killed and 2nd Lieutenant Cyril Douglas Bennett was captured but seriously injured.
Airwar19141918
Son of Maj. Robert H. E. Bennett, M.C., and Dorothy M. Bennett, of 77 Kensington Gardens, Kensington, London.
Bus V. House Prefect.
226 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (Bomber sqdn)
The squadron used Douglas Havoc, Douglas Boston and North American Mitchell medium bombers, whilst carrying out attacks on German ports and anti-shipping strikes.
On the 7th September 1941, P/O Bennett was acting as Observer in plane Z.7312 along with F/L Haggitt and P/O Ramsay (A/G), along with six other planes led by S/Ldr MacClancy.
They were Up at 11.30 for an attack on a convoy about 4 miles west of The Hague consisting of a heavily laden merchant vessel escorted by three flak ships.
1 flakship of 800 tons was seen to blow up and the merchant vessel enveloped in smoke.
P/O Bennett was reported as missing along with the rest of his crew.
Flight record: AIR-27_1406_38
Son of G. Cecil and Margaret Bonner, of Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Sixth Form. School Prefect.
'Was on the Supervisory Staff of the Central Argentine Railway at Buenos Aires. Returned to join the R.A.F. and was killed on active service earlier this year.' (Malvernian, Dec 1942)
Son of Colonel John Southey Bostock, C.B.E., M.B., Ch.B., formerly of the R.A.M.C., and of Olivia Emslie Bostock (nee Horniman), of Sea View, Isle of Wight.
Sixth Form.
Exeter College, Oxford B.A. (3rd Cl. Hist.) 1932.
Solicitor.
415 (R.C.A.F.) Sqdn, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron was part of the Royal Canadian Air Force, flying Hampden torpedo-bombers and attacking enemy convoys and shipyards.
Son of Harry and Jessie Bromley, 7 Bedford Av., Bexhill-on-Sea.
School Prefect. Shooting VIII, 1931-33.
Cranwell.
Husband of Betsy Maude Bromley, of South Croydon, Surrey.
169 Sqdn. Royal Air Force
The squadron flew Mosquito II night fighters from January 1944 and commenced night intruder operations against German night fighters.
The following appreciation is from The Times, Feb. 1945:— Wing Commander Niel Ballingal Reid Bromley, O.B.E., D.F.C., missing in September last, now officially reported killed, was the younger son of Captain and Mrs. Harry Bromley, of Haldon Priors, Torquay. Born in 1914 in South Africa, he was educated at Malvern. He entered Cranwell as a cadet in 1933 and was commissioned as pilot officer in July, 1935, to No. 32 (Fighter) Squadron. From 1936, however, he served with fighter squadrons in the Fleet Air Arm, and was at sea in the carriers Furious, Home Fleet, and Glorious, Mediterranean. In 1940, he was mentioned in dispatches for services in connexion with the campaign in Norway. He was made an O.B.E. in January, 1944, and the next May was given command of a squadron. The announcement of the award to him of the D.F.C. was made in October, soon after he was reported missing, the citation describing him as "a fine and inspiring leader". He had completed many sorties and had destroyed three enemy aircraft.
He returned from leave on the 3rd September 1944, and 3 days later, on the 6th September, 6 operational sorties took off from Gt. Massingham before midnight, however 'the Commanding Officer, W/Cdr. N.B.R. Bromley, OBE, with his navigator F/L. P. V. Truscott did not return. (Aircraft PZ.230).'
Squadron operation records: AIR-27_1094_33
It seems he was shot down over Northern Germany near Bremen.
Son of John Lytle Bulloch and Agnes Marion Evelyn Bulloch, of Craigavad, Co. Down, and Hill Croft, Holywood, Co. Down.
Army V.
Cranwell.
224 Sqdn. Royal Air Force
The squadron used Lockheed Hudsons which was a light bomber and coastal reconnaissance aircraft.
Extract from Operations Record Book:
11th April 1940, 15:15 to 20:15
Hudson N.7305
F/O Bullock, P/O Davis, Cpl Silk, AC Fisher
A/S Patrol Track D from Wick
At 17:20 hrs off Bergen Fjord saw NV Theseus with Swedish colours on funnel and Nazi flag on stern. Flag was hauled down as a/c approached. A/c dropped a stick of three 250lb bombs which missed by 40ft, and then front-gunned the decks. During this attack at 17:35 a D018 was sighted and attacked. During the engagement several bursts were seen to enter the e/a killing the rear gunner. The W/Op of our a/c was hit in the right forearm but continued his duties for the remainder of the patrol.
On the 24th April at 05:00 he took off from Leuchars in Scotland on Hudson N.7283 with a crew of P/O Harmston, LAC Hallam and LAC Lane, but failed to return.
Operations: AIR-27_1385_7
Operations detail: AIR-27_1385_8
Son of William Edward and Dorothy Bulmer, of Starcross, Archer Rd., Penarth, Glamorgan.
School Prefect. Cricket XI. Football XI. Boxing Colours 1935-37 (Capt.). Rackets Vest. Gym Colours. Anderson Medal. Cadet Officer in O.T.C.
Brasenose College, Oxford.
49 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Hampden bombers and carried out the attack on the Dortmund-Ems Canal on 12 August 1940.
'On leaving School he went up to B.N.C., Oxford, and made his mark in Rugby Football, playing many times for the University and with every likelihood of getting his "blue" if the war had not come.
Alan Bulmer had an engaging personality and his sensible and cheery outlook will be long remembered by his many friends. He was outstanding intellectually and athletically, and was a great asset to his School in every way. If he had been spared, he would most certainly have made his mark in the world. His family has our deep-felt sympathy in their great bereavement. H.D.E.E.' (Malvernian, Jul 1941).
He was the Pilot in Hampden X.3021 which took off at 23:14 on the 10th November 1940, and was then reported as 'Missing'.
Squadron Operations: AIR-27_480_26
Son of D. V. Burnett, Sherwood House, Salisbury, Rhodesia.
Boxing and Swimming Colours.
Manager of Insurance Co. in Bulawayo. London and Rhodesia Land & Mining Co.
He joined the R.A.F at outbreak of war in Buluwayo. He came home and served here for more than 3 years.
Son of H.Carson, M.B., 31 St Mary's Rd., Harborne, Birmingham.
Math VI. Senior Chapel Prefect. Sixth Form. XXII Football. President Athletics. Cadet-Officer in O.T.C.
Sidney Sussex, Cambridge.
114 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Blenheim bombers. Its airfield at Vraux was attacked on May 11th 1940 with six of the squadron's Blenheims destroyed, and the rest damaged. During the Battle of Britain in the summer of 1940, it attacked concentrations of barges in the German-held channel ports and Luftwaffe airfields by night.
'Danny Carson was one of the soundest and most loyal members of the School, which may be justly proud of him. He had an abundance of enthusiasm, pluck, and determination to succeed. Though not naturally clever or athletic he reached a high standard of general efficiency by steady perseverance, and his example was an inspiration and an encouragement to many who knew him. He will be greatly missed and very sincere sympathy is felt for his family. H.D.E.E.' (Malvernian, Jul 1941).
He took off from Oulton at 08:20 on the 13th August 1940 to attack the aerodrome at Jersey but failed to return.
Squadron operations: AIR-27_882_11_Carson
Son of D. Carvill, White House, Great North Way, Hendon, NW4.
Mod. Lan. VI. Football XI.
56 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Hurricanes, and was involved in covering the retreat to Dunkirk, the Battle of Britain, and in 1941 escorted bombers raiding targets in German-occupied France.
'Reported Missing from attack on an objective in France in June 1941, when he was known to have been compelled to bale out, is now officially presumed to have lost his life.' (Malvernian, March 1942)
While returning from operations over Northern France, Sgt Carvill, reported that his aircraft (Hurricane IIB Z.3329) was damaged after a big air battle with Me 109s and that he was baling out at approx 19.30 on 17/6/41. Extract from German Totenliste, No 50, states that Sgt Carvill crashed on 17/6/41 and was killed near Wimereux in Sea with part of his uniform, but no body, being found.
Missing record: AIR_81_7393
Son of William and Francis Helen Charles, of Monkton Wyld, Bathford, Somerset.
Bus. V.
33 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Hurricanes and was based in the Middle East with the exception of a time from January to May 1941 where it was involved in very heavy fighting trying to resist the invasion of Greece.
'16/12/41
Two formation of four Hurricanes each strafed transport on the road between Ghemines and El Agheila. Heavy casualties were inflicted on lorry borne troops and many vehicles were damaged.
F/O Charles hit a trailer that he was strafing and crashed in flames and was killed.'
33 Squadron record book, Dec 1941: AIR-27_367_15
Son of Harry Speed Clement and Clara Clement. Nevill Lodge, Bognor.
Science Form. O.M. Science Prize. Junior Chapel Prefect. Head of House. Ledbury Cap.
Royal School of Mines, London. Graduate 1920.
1st Gt. War, Capt. Hampshire Regt. And I.A., M.C., Despatches.
Husband of Winifred Clement, of Edlesborough. Buckinghamshire.
Son of Dr. Walter Tyrrell Cooper, M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P., L.D.S., and Dulcie Elizabeth Cooper, of 44 Cholmeley Park, Highgate, Middlesex.
Army V.
50 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew the Hampden medium bomber where it attempted to attack German warships off Kristiansand returning from the German invasion of Norway on the 12th April 1940, but with heavy losses daylight raids were abandoned, and it continued operations by night, taking part in the RAF's strategic bombing offensive against the Germans through the remainder of 1940 and 1941.
On the night of the 23rd October 1941, the squadron was on a bombing run to Kiel. One aircraft out of the 16 failed to return.
The operation overall was successful with 13 aircraft being able to locate and bomb the target. A total of 6 x 1,000 lb; 40 x 500 lb; 16 x 250 lb bombs and 1,924 lbs of incendiaries was expended.
Squadron diary: AIR-27_486_18
Son of Captain Alfred Geoffrey and Evelyn Gladys Corah, of Durfold, Warnham, Horsham, Sussex.
House Prefect.
107 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Blenheim bombers, and was based at Malta in 1941 and received very heavy losses with 90% of all original and replacement crews killed in action. In January 1942, it received US Douglas Boston light bombers and began flying daylight operations again in March 1942 from Great Massingham, Norfolk.
Son of Thomas Edgar and Frances Campbell Corrie, of Heathway, Chobham, Woking, Surrey.
Class VI.
53 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew the Bristol Blenheim light bomber undertaking anti-submarine and anti-shipping operations. He died just before the Blenheims were replaced by the Lockheed Hudson in July 1941 .
'23/6/41
A/c 'S' on convoy escort duties failed to return to base - Crew P/O Bolten, Sgts Corrie and Kircher.'
Squadron diary, AIR-27_504_11
AIR-27_504_12
He was flying a Blenheim Mark Four V.5647.
The aircraft was ordered for escort duties at 09.00 hours on 23 June 1941, and was reported at 13.00 hours to have crashed in flames in the sea.
Missing Record
Son of John and Annie Hardman Cowan, of Heaton Moor, Stockport, Cheshire.
Boxing Colours.
Manchester Univ.
150 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (Bomber Command).
The squadron flew Vickers Wellingtons bombers from October 1940 operating from RAF Newton near Nottingham.
'He had taken part in very many raids on Germany.' (Malvernian, Jul 1942)
'27/28.4.42 Executive order for Operations No 81 gave instructions for fourteen main aircraft to attack Cologne. Weather conditions were exceptionally good for this operation, no cloud and good visibility making the location of the target a matter of ease. The bridges across the Rhine could be clearly seen and the detonation of bombs were observed to be well in the target area. Numerous small fires could be seen burning over a widespread area of the town. Anti-aircraft and searchlight activity was intense and extremely accurate and the impression left with our crews was that a large proportion of the Rhur's defences were concentrated on Cologne and the surrounding districts.
Two aircraft and crew are missing from this operation.
Sgt Cowan was listed as one of the Pilots missing in Aircraft X.3288 'H'.'
150 Squadron diary: AIR-27_1010_7
150 Squadron diary: AIR-27_1010_8
Son of Mr. and Mrs. C. B. Crisp, Moor Close, Binfield, Berks.
Matric. Class. House Prefect.
1st Gt. War, Cadet R.A.F.
Magdalen College, Oxford. B.A. 1922.
Stock Exchange.
Husband of Betty Crisp, of Maidenhead, Berkshire. B.A.(Oxon.).
He was listed as one of the passengers of the ship Dumana which was sunk by the U-boat U-513 on the evening of 24 Dec 1943 near the Ivory Coast.
Uboat.net
Son of Archibald and Olive Davies, 47 Lancaster Gate, Hyde Park, W2.
In business. Heating Engineer (Graduate).
Husband of Ellen Margrethe Davies, of Westminster, London.
156 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Wellington bombers, and it became one of the original pathfinder squadrons, converting to Lancasters in January 1943.
He was the Pilot on Lancaster plane W4850 which was shot down on a bombing raid to Kiel.
Squadron diary: AIR-27_1041_30
Born 22 Jul 1916. Son of C. St Hugh Dawes. Mrs Johnstone, The Rookery, Waterbeach, Cambridge.
Bus. V. School Prefect. Head of House.
With Colombo Commercial Co.
6 Sqdn. Royal Air Force
During the early part of the war, the squadron flew Westland Lysanders in an army co-operation role in Palestine.
F/L Dawes and Sgt Chantry took off near Mantruh in Lysander L.6877 at 08:50 on 14th Dec 1940 to carry out a reconnaissance of Maddalena but failed to return.
The aircraft was seen to be shot down just over the Libyan border and that the two members of the crew were buried by soldiers where they had fallen. The graves though have not been found.
Http://www.stanwardine.com/malvernww1/ww2/Dawes_record_missing.pdf
Son of Lt.-Col. Charles Deakin, O.B.E., The Worcestershire Regt. (died on active service, 8th March, 1944). and Theodora Deakin, of Hordle, Hampshire, and of Brook Grange, Bramley, Nr . Guildford, Surrey.
Army V. House Prefect.
B.A. (Cantab).
'After much operational work, in which his C.O. reports he showed himself a very fine pilot, he was employed as an instructor and again earned high praise. He was killed in an accident in Jan., 1944.' (Malvernian, Mar 1944)
Son of George Nelson Dobie, and Katherine Ivy Dobie, of Half Way, Foley Terrace, Malvern, Worcestershire.
Bus. V.
1 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Hurricanes in the Battle of France and Battle of Britain. The squadron then carried out night intruder patrols until July 1942, when it was re-equipped with the Hawker Typhoon fighter-bomber and relocated to RAF Acklington, Northumberland where it reverted to daytime operations.
Son of Arnett Richardson Dunton and Sylvia May Dunton, of Paignton, Devon, and of Sunnyside, Bentick Rd., Altrincham.
Hist VI. Junior Chapel Prefect. Head of House. Sixth Form. Editor of the Malvernian. C.S.M. in Corps.
Exhibitioner of Christ's College, Cambridge.
166 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew regularly night sorties as part of No. 1 Group Bomber Command using Wellingtons before converting to the Avro Lancaster in September 1943.
Presumed killed during a raid on Stettin on the night of 29th August, 1944.
Son of James E. and Carolina Du Vivier, 2 Rue Pycke, Courtrai, Belgium.
Hist. VI. House Prefect. Football XI.
In business.
Husband of Beryl Mary Du Vivier.
229 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
Son of John Purnell Purnell-Edwards and of Gwladis Ruth Purnell-Edwards (nee Liddon), of Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Republic of Ireland.
186 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
On 5 October 1944, the squadron was reformed as a Bomber Command Lancaster unit, based at Tuddenham, and William Purnell-Edwards seems to have been killed on one of its first bombing raids.
Son of Leonard Erasmus Ellis and of Evelyn le Hunte Ellis (nee Barnes), of Kloof, Natal, South Africa, and of 13 Northam Gns., Oxford.
House Prefect, Athletic Colours. Shooting VIII. Lance- Sergeant in O.T.C.
Represented Malvern for the Ashburton Shield at Bisley, and in the Public Schools Athletics (Hurdles) at the White City.
'After leaving School he went to South Africa where he was born but returned to take a course in engineering at Loughborough College in Leicestershire. Here he joined the R.A.F.V.R. and later flew at the World's Fair. When war broke out he returned immediately to England and joined up. He was killed in an operational flying accident near Exeter in March 1941. He was a Sergeant Pilot.' (Malvernian, Jul 1941).
Son of William Charles Ferris, and of Lilian Sythe Maria Ferris, of Westminster, London; stepson of Lt.-Col. Raymond J. Hartmann, Royal Artillery.
Swimming VIII.
142 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (Bomber Command)
The squadron used Vickers Wellington heavy bombers, flying night bombing missions over Germany
His brother Cecil Frank also died on service.
Son of Michael Gloye Foster (M.D.) and Charlotte Shipley Foster, Villa San Giovanni, San Remo.
Lower VI. School Prefect.
Trinity College, Cambridge.
With Messrs. Turner Morrison & Co., Ltd., Calcutta 1922.
1st Gt. War. Capt. Suffolk Regt.
Husband of Franklin Foster (nee Engs). Of Great Glemham. Suffolk.
Son of Frederick Henry Fraser and of Gertrude Eva Fraser (nee Gibson), East Burnham Grove, Farnham Royal, Bucks.
Mod. Lan. VI. School Prefect. Sixth Form. Cadet Officer. Football XI 1932,33 (Capt.).
Pembroke College, Cambridge.
Husband of Anita Mary Sherley Fraser (nee Sherley Dale), of East Grinstead, Sussex.
He shot down nine planes in fourteen days, and was awarded the D.F.C. in 1941. Served in N. Africa, Greece, Crete, Sudan and Turkey.
'Air Ministry, 1st April, 1941. ROYAL AIR FORCE. The KING has been graciously pleased to approve the following awards in recognition of gallantry displayed in
flying operations against the enemy: — Distinguished Flying Cross.
Flight Lieutenant Joseph Frederick FRASER (70229), No. 112 Squadron. This
officer has led a detached flight with great success. He has destroyed at least
10 enemy aircraft, 9 of which he destroyed within a period of 14 days. He has
proved a skilful and courageous fighter pilot.'
London Gazette
Son of John and Maria Francesca Fry, of The Mill, Runcton, Chichester.
Cricket XI 1932, 33.
Peterhouse, Cambridge.
"Peter Fry will be remembered by many as a boy at school, as an O.M. at Cambridge and on the Cricket Tour, and as an officer in the R.A.F. His happy, cheerful disposition endeared him to all who knew him." (F.H.H.) (Malvernian, July 1940).
Son of Group Captain Frederick Frank Garraway, O.B.E. (killed on active service, 12th May, 1941), and of Buddug Garraway, of Cockfosters, Barnet, Hertfordshire , and 47 Lancaster Gate, W2.
House Prefect. Athletic and Boxing Colours.
78 Sqdn Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
On the night of 30/31 May 1942, 78 Squadron contributed 22 Halifaxes to Operation Millennium, the first "1,000 bomber" raid against Cologne.
Combat report:
On the night of the 20th April 1944 at 01:26, a red light which approached gave the impression of a navigation light, slightly different from our own, at approximately 1000 yards. Enemy aircraft started a curve of pursuit attack at 450 yards level, fine starboard quarter. Just before reaching this position enemy aircraft opened fire. Gunners immediately gave corkscrew to starboard and opened fire immediately at approximately 400 yards range. Fighter went down and exploded on the ground. Fighter recognised as single engine aircraft probably ME.109.
Sgt Garraway was the Bomb Aimer in Halifax L.V.875 which took off from Breighton at 22:06 on the 26th April 1944 for Villeneuve St George. The aircraft was reported as Missing. The other 21 aircraft managed to return having reached and attacked the target.
Combat reports AIR-50_195_138
Squadron Operations Summary April 1944 AIR-27_661_7
Squadron Operations Detail April 1944 AIR-27_661_8
Son of Robert and Ruby Lydia Gibbs, of Petra, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset.
Football XL.
Bank Clerk.
467 Sqdn. Royal Air Force
The squadron flew Avro Lancaster heavy bombers and formed part of No. 5 Group, RAF Bomber Command. It flew its first operation on 2 January 1943, laying mines off the French coast near Furze. It then conducted raids on Germany, France, Norway, Czechoslovakia, and Italy.
13th July 1943. This was a dark and dismal 13th for the squadron, for we lost 3 valuable crew, namely F/L Gibbs, F/O Mitchell and F/Sgt Chapman. F/L Gibbs was acting as Flight Commander at the time on the raid to Turin.
July 1943 Ops, AIR-27_1930_13
July 1943 Ops Detail AIR-27_1930_14
Son of Mary Henrietta Purkiss-Ginn, of Hornbeams, Bengeo, Hertford, England.
Bus. VI. School Prefect. Head of House.
'He was in the Vlth Form, a School Prefect and Head of House. In 1934 he was involved in a serious motor accident which left him with a head injury. This prevented his joining the Royal Air Force as he had intended. The war, however, enabled him to realise his ambition. He was accepted in the Royal Air Force and was sent to Canada to train under the Empire Air Training Scheme. ' (Malvernian, Dec 1941).
Son of A. C. Goodall, Dalesbrook, Solihull.
Hist V. House Prefect. Gym. Colours. Swimming team.
Jesus College, Cambridge.
Barrister. In Business. Director, A. Goodall & Co. Ltd (Birmingham).
420 (R.C.A.F.) Royal Air Force
The squadron flew Manchester, Hampden, Wellington, Halifax, and Lancaster aircraft on strategic and tactical bombing operations.
On the night of May 27/28 1944, 27 aircraft were detailed to target Bourg-Leopold military camp in Belgium with the raid considered successful. A heavy ground fog prevented all aircraft from returning to base and were dispersed over many stations. One aircraft was considered damaged due to enemy fighter opposition, and one Halifax Bomber failed to return from operations and is presumed missing with 'B' Flight Commander S/L C.S. Beal and crew including that of P/O Goodall.
420 Squadron operation records book, May 1944: AIR 27_1826_7
Detail of operations: AIR 27_1826_8
Son of Herbert Stanley and Marion Grant, St Anthony, 15 Lathbury Rd, Oxford.
Hist VI. Martin History Prize. School Prefect.
Trinity College, Oxford.
Husband of Kathleen De Angelis Grant, of Tooting, Surrey.
10 O.T.U. Royal Air Force
Bomber training unit
Son of Dr H. Gray, Yew Tree, West Malling, Kent.
Sci VI.
University College, Oxford, B.A.
63 Sqdn. Royal Air Force
The squadron flew North American Mustangs.
Catterick. October 4th 1942
Squadron employed in Air Support Role in 11 Tank Bde exercise. Squadron Leader Gray was killed in a flying accident whilst taking part.
63 Squadron operation records: AIR 27_587_1
Son of Ferdinand Cecil and Alys Bertie Greatrex, of Lower Bourne, Surrey, and 72 Lissenden Mansions, Highgate Rd, NW5.
Mod. Lan VI. School Prefect. Head of House.
Trained with R.A.F. in Buluwayo. P/O.
Killed in Middle East on Dec. 15, 1943, when his Spitfire hit high-tension cable.
Son of Horace B. and Florence Greey, of Beoley, Worcestershire, England, and 41 St Agnes Rd., Moseley, Birmingham.
Mod Lan. V. House Prefect.
103 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Vickers Wellington bombers.
Reported Missing Aug. 1941; now known to have been killed with all his crew.
Wellington W.5656, with a crew of six, took off from Elsham at 22:15 on 5th August 1941 for operations over Frankfurt. A last W/T communication stating mission completed at 01:13 was received at 02:20 on the 6th. Six other aircraft from the Squadron successfully attacked the same target. There were no reports of other than the normal amount of flak and searchlight activity over enemy territory.
Telegrams from the International Red Cross state that all six members of the crew (Sergeant D M Greey - Captain, Sergeant J P Taylor (RCAF) - 2nd Pilot, Sergeant J Moules - Navigator, Sergeant F W Alleway - 1st W/T Operator, Sergeant R G G Griffin - 2nd W/T Operator, Sergeant C Deges - Air Gunner) were killed.
The aircraft crashed in the midst of a windstorm at 'Moscou' in the communue of Tardinghen. According to the proprietor of the farm, the aircraft exploded on touching the ground, and the wreckage was thrown over a considerable area.
This was Sgt Greey's fourteenth sortie as Captain with this crew, he had previously completed a further nine sorties as 2nd pilot.
Missing report: AIR 81/8104
Squadron operation records: AIR 27_813_41
Detailed records: AIR 27_813_42
Son of Henry Herbert Russell Gresham and of Gladys Elizabeth Gresham (nee Smethurst), c/o Falkland Islands Co., 61 Gracechurch St. Nephew of Irene Dunnett, of Boscombe, Bournemouth, Hampshire.
House Prefect. Swimming Team.
148 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Vickers Wellington bombers.
Missing as a result of air operations in Tobruk Harbour.
He was the 2nd Pilot in Wellington HD 947 with P/O S.C Pearson as the 1st Pilot, Sgt A.H. Threfall as the Navigator, F/Sgt D.D. Miller as the WO/AG, F/Sgt D.A. Miller as the F/Gnr and Sgt R.M.G. Banbury as the R/Gnr.
The aircraft set off at 22.35 for operations on Tobruk but failed to return.
Squadron operations, June 1942: AIR 27_994_37
Detailed operations: AIR 27_994_38
Son of Edwin Richard and Eveline Hallifax, of The Warren, Mayfield, Sussex.
Army VI. School Prefect. Head of House. Cricket XL.
Cranwell.
Son of H. F. Hampshire, Caixa 10, Santos, Brazil.
In business (Exporting) with E. Johnston & Co.
Returned from Brazil.
141 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew on long range intruder operations with Beaufighters over occupied Europe, using the Serrate radar detector, while based at RAF West Raynham in Norfolk.
He took off at 23:19 on the 27th June 1944 in Mosquito FII HJ941 (X) together with W/O AAW Melrose to go on Serrate patrol to Northern France on his first sortie with the squadron and did not return.
141 Squadron operations, June 1944: AIR 27_971_11
Detailed operations: AIR 27_971_12
Son of Major Charles Chetwode Hardy, and of Edith Georgina Hardy (nee Potter), 21 Armour Hill, Tilehurst, Nr Reading.
Army VI. School Prefect.
Cranwell.
Husband of H. Margaret Hardy, of Bushey Heath, Hertfordshire.
A.D.C. to H.M. King George VI from 1st October 1944.
The following appreciation is taken from The Times:— To those who knew Air Commodore S. H. Hardy, C.B.E., who was appointed Commandant of the Officers' Advanced Training School at Cranwell in March, 1944, the news of his untimely death at the Royal Air Force Hospital, Rauceby, on 9 April, after an illness lasting several weeks, will have come as a great shock.
During his 21 years' service Stephen Hardy, with his huge stature, became well known in the service, and wherever he went his pleasant personality endeared him to all. He had great faith in the future of the Royal Air Force, and his high ideals and personal example were always an inspiration to those who served with him.
His good work during his last year at Cranwell had already made itself felt, and it came as no surprise to those who knew him when his ability and personal integrity were recognized by his appointment in October, 1944, as an additional Air Aide-de- Camp to the King.
Stephen Hardy never spared himself where duty was concerned. It is true to say that but for his determination to carry on his important work at Cranwell, in spite of the fact that he knew he was a sick man, he might well have been alive to-day. Courteous, sincere, and charming, Stephen Hardy was a fine friend and an able officer whom the service could ill afford to lose at this time. His early death while still in his prime is a great loss to the Royal Air Force and to the many friends that he leaves behind.
Son of G. H. Simpson-Hayward (1.94) and Mrs. M. Simpson-Hayward of Kemerton, Worcestershire, and Icomb Place, Stow-on-the-Wold, Glos.
Sci V. Gale Entomology Prize. School Prefect. Cricket XXII. Football XXII.
'He was a School Prefect and in the XXII both at Cricket and Football. He inherited his father's interest in Natural History and won the Gale Entomology Prize. After leaving school he became a Tea Planter in Ceylon and returned home to join the R.A.F.' (Malvernian, Dec 1941).
Son of Lt.-Col. Henry Hemsted and Muriel Hope Hemsted, of Naivasha, Kenya and Hilton Park, Wolverhampton.
Hist. VI. School Prefect. Cricket XL.
18 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Blenheim bombers and from 1943–45 supported the allied advance through Italy.
He was the pilot in Boston 'K' Z.2234. He took off from Pomigliano at 03:30 on the night of the 17/18th January 1944 but crashed shortly after take-off with all four member of the crew killed. (F/L R.H.R. Hemsted, F/S H.F. Tolliday, P/O R. Hepworth, F/S T. Campbell).
18 Squadron operation records: AIR 27_245_1
Detailed records: AIR 27_245_2
Son of L. J. Hicks (9.02), The Nook, 13 Audley End, Folkestone
Math. VI.
22 Squadron, RAF.
22 Squadron moved to RAF North Coates in Lincolnshire on 8 April 1940, flying its first operational sorties from that base on 15 April when nine Beauforts set out to lay mines off the mouth of the River Elbe. In this role, the unit flew sorties over the North Sea from North Coates, Thorney Island, St Eval and Portreath.
Flying Officer R L Hicks: killed; Sergeant R E Cree, Flight Sergeant J A Faill, Flight Sergeant W Mitchell: missing believed killed; aircraft failed to return from operational flight over English Channel, Beaufort N1147, 22 Squadron, 6 April 1941.
Missing report: AIR 81/5710
Wikipedia
Son of Buckley Holmes and of Ethel Maud Holmes (nee Wensley), Cannock Park, Deganwy, North Wales.
Hits. VI. School Prefect.
The Queen's College, Oxford (1st Class Jurisprudence).
Civil Servant in Northern Ireland Government.
Husband of Dorothy Margaret Probert Holmes (nee Newman), of Belfast. B.A.
502 Sqdn. Royal Air Force (Auxiliary Air Force)
The squadron flew patrols in the Atlantic off the Irish Coast with Armstrong Whitworth Whitleys.
'Behind an attractive diffidence of manner, he concealed a strong determination and this enabled him to take a good position in both House and School and claim the respect of his contemporaries. He had good abilities as shown by his first class at Oxford and his career was full of promise. Though no athlete, he had a good physique and some years ago took up flying as a member of the R.A.F. Reserve. While he was always content with a small circle of friends, it is certain that at Malvern he never had an enemy. F.S.P. ' (Malvernian, Mar 1941).
Whitley aircraft P.5041 took off from Aldergrove on 23rd January 1941 for Escort Duty, HG 50, and crashed near Campbletown, Mull of Kintyre on return from escort duty.
All the crew were killed and consisted of Captain F/Lt P.L. Billing , 2nd Pilot P/O A.P.B Holmes, Navigator Sgt A.R. Booker, W.T. Sgt H Pilling, A.G Sgt D.J.P. Bradley.
Squadron operation records, Jan 1941: AIR 27_1958_1
Detailed records: AIR 27_1958_2
Born 26 Mar 1906, Sydney, Australia. Son of Anthony Shubra Hordern & Edith Hordern, Holmwood Lo., Dorking, and 8 Wimbledon Close, SW19.
House Prefect
Stock Exchange
prev. exp. 740 hrs on "Henley, Hart, Demon, Phoenix, Wellington, Harrow, Percival Q.6"
RAFVR 31 Jan 1940 - 27 Jun 1942 (Flt-Lt, 214 Sqn)
ATA (Air Transport Auxiliary) 29 Jan 1943 to 7 Apr 1943
He died as a result of a car accident.
Cremation at Woking on Sat Dec 16th 1944.
Memorial photo
References:
Thanks to Terry Mace, via email in Nov 2022, for supplying more details such as his time in the ATA and the cause of his death. Further information on his website.
www.ata-ferry-pilots.org
Son of Ernest Joseph and Emma Hubbard, of Stoughton Lodge, Stoughton Rd., Leicester.
Football XL.
106 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Hampdens in a training role.
A Hampden X.3154 from RAF Finningley at 20:45 (dark) on 21/12/1940 flew into hillside and caught fire near Castleton Road, Chapel-en-le-Frith, Derbyshire. P/O M Hubbard, Sgt Smith, Sgt Perkins, Sgt Davey - all dead. Complete wreck. Cause of low flying unknown.
Accident report
Squadron Operation records, Dec 1940: AIR 27_831_31
Detailed records
Son of the Hon. Mr. Justice Mirza A.A. Khan, and of Gertrude Harriet Mirza Khan, of Headington, Oxford and Alexandra House, Ballard Estate, Bombay.
Foundation Scholar St Pauls School, London.
Manson Scholar, Corpus Christi College, Cambridge.
86 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
Coastal Command. Captain of a Beaufort Torpedo Bomber.
He was the P/O of a Beaufort II 'A' AW.253, with crew members of Sgt Denham, Sgt, McLaty, and Sgt Turnbull. He took off at 16:54 from St Eval in Cornwall on the 2nd February 1942 for a Strike with two other aircraft in his squadron, 'G' and 'Q'. A/C G/86 flew in formation with 'A' and 'Q'. In position 4558 (STE/06/2/2 and PL/G8/2/2) a tanker estimated 5000 tons escorted by 2 armed trawlers was sighted approx 4 miles ahead on Westerly course at 3 knots. A/C continued formation for 30 secs then broke and attacked. A/C 'G' released torpedo from 70 ft, 900 yards from target and took avoiding action from Red Flak, all ships having opened up just prior to attack. A/C 'Q' was observed by rear gunner to fall into sea in flames. 'A' was last seen on Northerly course far ahead of 'G' flying normally.
A/C 'G' landed at base at 18.55.
A/C 'A' and 'Q' failed to return and crew are missing.
86 Squadron operation records, Feb 1942: AIR-27-708-20
Detailed records: AIR-27-708-21
He does not seem to appear in operations for the previous two months, so it could have been his first mission.
Only son of John Christopher Laidlay (§.08) and Maud Laidlay, Lindores, Newburgh, Fife and of Perth.
254 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Bristol Blenheims, part of Coastal Command, patrolling the North Sea, convoy escort work, and reconnaissance.
'At school he was chiefly remarkable for his initiative and spirit of adventure, an ideal temperament for a Pilot Officer.' (Malvernian, Dec 1940).
The aircraft Blenheim IV N.3608 piloted by P/O Laidlay collided with Blenheim N.3529 in the air at 2000-3000 feet, caught fire and dived into the ground vertically when it is presumed the petrol tanks exploded as parts of the aircraft are scattered over a radius of 50 yards. The main part of the fuselage and engines are buried about 8 feet deep, and it continued to burn until extinguished by a spring of water burst by the aircraft. Nothing left to salvage, except scrap.
There was apparently no attempt to use parachutes and all occupants were killed.
From eye witness accounts the aircraft were practising attacks approximately 8 miles north of Dyce aerodrome in Aberdeenshire. The wing fell off one machine and the other aircraft caught fire, and crashed 1 mile apart.
The pilots concerned were recent arrivals at the Squadron and were being trained for operational duties. They had previously carried out attacks both single and in formation.
Accident report
Son of E. Liversidge, Lynwood, Oxford Rd, Dewsbury.
Math VI. School Prefect. F. XXII.
Scholar, Trinity, Camb. 1st Cl. Math. Trip.
Husband of Joan Liversidge, of Marylebone, London. B.A. (Cantab.).
405 (R.C.A.F.) Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
(Converted from Wellington bombers to the Handley Page Halifax in April 1942, taking part in the historic 1,000-bomber raid on Cologne on the night of 30/31 May 1942.)
F/Lt Liversidge was the Captain of a Halifax II ('H') with Sgts Bradbrook (Navigator), Alcazar (Observer), Dearlove (Wireless Operator), Foot (A/G), Druommond (A/G) and McFee (A/G).
He took off at 23:04 on the 29th June 1942 from RCAF Pocklington in Yorkshire for a bombing attack on Bremen along with 9 other aircraft in his squadron. His aircraft was one of three that did not return.
Operation records, June 1942: AIR 27_1787_25
Detailed records: AIR 27_1787_26
Son of Alexander Graham Low and Annie Low, 9 Holland Park.
Husband of Susan Mary Low, of Farnham, Surrey.
57 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Vickers Wellington bombers from November 1940.
He was the Air Gunner in a Wellington III X.3653 together with Captain W/C P-Smith, Observer F/O Hodson, 1st W/T Sgt Moses, and 2nd W/T Sgt Drysdale. The aircraft took off at 15:30 on the 27th July 1942 for a bombing raid over Bremen but failed to return.
57 Squadron Operation records, July 1942
Detailed records
Son of R. C. MacDougall, Enborne Grange, Newbury, Berks.
Army I. School Prefect. C.XL. Boxing Cols.
Sandhurst (Boxing Capt.).
Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry.
British Isles Pentathlon at Los Angeles 1932. Army officers (India) L. Weight (33), Feather-Weight (34) Champion.
Husband of J. M. McDougall, of Newbury, Berkshire.
2nd Gt. War, W/Cdr., R.A.F. D.F.C.
The KING has been graciously pleased to approve the following
awards, in recognition of gallantry displayed in flying operations against the
enemy:— Awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. Squadron Leader Jeffrey
McDougall (25059), No. 110 Squadron.
In 1939, 110 Squadron was posted to Wattisham and on 4 September 1939 Nos. 110
and 107 Squadron led the first RAF raid of the war against Wilhelmshaven. The
squadron flew Bristol Blenheim bombers and was mainly involved in anti-shipping
strikes during the early part of the war, before being posted to India in March
1942.
Wikipedia
Dec 1942 Operations AIR-27_858_32
Son of David James Mackay, and of Lucy Mackay (nee Thompson).
Science I. School Prefect. Shooting VIII.
Wadham College, Oxford.
Great War 1914-18 (overseas), Private R.E. Major, Queen Victoria's Rifles.
Husband of Lucie Mackay (nee Sarazin).
Fl./Lt. R.A.F.V.R. Died at British Military Hospital, Delhi, Oct. 1944.
Son of Mrs Maclean, Heybridge, Prestbury, Macclesfield.
Math V. House Prefect. Cricket XI 1935-36. XL Football.
38 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve.
The squadron flew Wellington Bombers.
Missing believed killed, the other members of the crew being prisoners of war.
Missing report:
The Wellington Mark IC Q, R. 3219, with a bomb load of nine 230 lb N.D.T, one small bomb container with sixty 4lb incendiary bombs and one 5.5. flare left base at 1904 hours for target A.77 on the 30th September 1940.
'Gerald Hipping, the Navigator, stated:
Our machine, containing P/O Maclean crashed and exploded somewhere along a position line joining Osnabruck and
Diepholg.
After capture I was taken to Diepholg aerodrome and there met the Hun who had shot me down. His name was Streib and he received the
Iron Cross for his achievement of shooting down four British machines in quick succession on the same night - 30/9/40.'
The crew were 1st Pilot - P/O Maclean, 2nd Pilot - Sgt S Williams, Navigator - Sgt G Tipping, W/Operator - Sgt V. F. Gammon, Tail Gunner - P/O Mathieson, Front Gunner - Sgt J Hamilton.
P/O Maclean was still in the aircraft when Sgt Gammon, who was the last of the crew, safely went out. The aircraft blew up a second later in the air.
Missing Report: Air 81/3568
Son of Richard de Kirklavington Maynard (O.M.) and Susan B. Maynard, of The Quarry, Ebberston, Scarborough, Yorkshire.
Hist VI. House Prefect. Sixth Form.
185 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
Fighter squadron in the Mediterranean from May 1941. Converted from Hurricanes to Spitfires in May 1942.
P/O Maynard took off on 22nd November at 06.10 in Spitfire EP696 as the leader of two aircraft on an Ante 'E' Boat Patrol off the coast of Sicily. Whilst returning to base, flying at sea level, he crashed into the sea about 6 miles south west of Pachino. No trace of pilot or wreckage found.
185 Squadron Operational record, Nov 1942
Detail AIR-27_1140_22
Son of Sidney Alfred and Florence Medwin, of Cookham, Berkshire, and Rosedene, Abbotswood, Guildford.
Son of William Henry and Rose Winifred Moss, of Godden Green, Sevenoaks, Kent.
Junior Chapel Prefect. Head of House. Rackets Pair. Cricket XI 1928- (Capt. '29, '30).
Trinity College, Oxford, B.A. (2nd Cl. Mod. History). Golf Blue, 1931-34 (Capt. '33).
Schoolmaster at St David's Reigate and Radley College.
61 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
Bomber squadron. Flew Lancasters from May 1942.
The Warden of Radley (Mr. J. C. Vaughan Wilkes) wrote the following for The Times: — 'Squadron Leader E. H. Moss, D.F.C., whose death was recently reported, was killed in March of last year at the age of 32. He was educated at Hawtreys', at Malvern, and at Trinity College, Oxford; and was a master at Radley College from 1936 until war broke out, when he joined The Wiltshire Regiment. He was promoted captain in 1940, but in 1941 transferred to the R.A.F. After being trained as a pilot, he was for some time an instructor, and then flew a number of operational flights in Lancasters. He was awarded the D.F.C. shortly before his death. At Malvern Jimmy Moss was in the cricket XI for four years, captain of cricket his last two years, and in the rackets pair.
At Oxford he narrowly missed his cricket "blue"—many people would agree that he amply deserved it. He was a beautiful bat and a rapid scorer. He played four years for the University at golf, and was captain his last two years—and a very good player he was. He came "down" with a good degree in history and became a schoolmaster—an extraordinarily good one, beloved by all who knew him, boys and masters. His capacity for seeing always the best in other people, his modesty, his high sense of duty, won instant admiration and affection. He was always natural, genuine, and sincere, giving himself heart and soul to whatever he had to do, and surprised if others seemed grateful for services which he regarded as obvious and simple duties.
The high standard he set himself was infectious and inspiring, so that it was natural for all who knew him to respond with the best they had to give. Many who heard him talk of Bomber Command will remember how moving was his enthusiasm for his service, his admiration of his brother airmen from all parts of the Empire and America, his warm appreciation of the ground crews that served him—in fact, his whole love of humanity and humble thankfulness to God.'
'Air Ministry, 24th March, 1944. The KING has been graciously pleased to approve
the following awards in recognition of gallantry displayed in flying operations against the enemy — Distinguished Flying Cross:
Acting Squadron Leader, Edward Henry Moss (106228), Royal Air Force Volunteer
Reserve, No. 61 Squadron. This officer has completed very many sorties, and
on 5 occasions has attacked Berlin. - On one of these sorties, when returning
from the German capital, his aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire. The front
and mid-upper turrets were damaged, the flaps and the tail trim were rendered
unserviceable and a tyre on one of the landing wheels was punctured but Squadron
Leader Moss brought his aircraft safely back to an airfield and effected a safe
landing. This officer has displayed great leadership, skill and courage, setting a fine example to all.'
The Gazette
Combat report AIR-50_191_77
Son of William Hall Moxey and Margaret Lawrence Moxey, 111 Gresham House, Old Broad St.
Husband of Mary Arthur Moxey, of Walton-on-Thames, Surrey. His son, Nigel Hall Moxey, also died on service.
Director of the Moxey Conveyor and Transport Co., Ltd.
'He served throughout the last war as a Captain in the 12th Bn. York and Lancashire Regt., and in the R.F.C. In March, 1939, he was commissioned as a Pilot Officer in the Administrative and Special Duties Branch of the R.A.F. Volunteer Reserve, and served at home and in France, from where being on a special mission in the neighbourhood of Paris at the time of the collapse of the French Armies he escaped only with great difficulty. He was also a recognised expert in dealing with unexploded bombs and was constantly called upon for this hazardous work in the succeeding months. It was in this way that he lost his life in August. Full of life and energy in all he did, Eric Moxey was also one of the most loyal of Malvernians, and had four sons at the School. To his wife and to them we offer our deep sympathy in the loss of so gallant a husband and father.' (Malvernian, Dec 1940).
Citation, London Gazette of 17th Dec 1940:
'On 27th August, 1940, it was reported that two unexploded bombs were embedded in an aerodrome. Squadron- Leader Moxey, a technical intelligence officer employed at the aerodrome, immediately volunteered to remove them, although fully aware of the risk entailed. One of the bombs exploded, causing his death. On many occasions Squadron Leader Moxey has exhibited similar complete disregard for his personal safety.'
Son of Sqdn. Ldr. Eric Lawrence Moxey, G.C., R.A.F. (killed in action 27th August, 1940), and of Mary Arthur Moxey, of Walton-on-Thames, Surrey,
and 249 Hagley Rd., Edgbaston, Birmingham.
House Prefect.
Son of H. N. Murray, Elcot, 7 Derby Rd., Caversham, Oxon.
Boxing Cols.
214 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
Killed while Captain of a Wellington Bomber over Germany.
April 1942 operations AIR-27_1321_7
Detail AIR-27_1321_8
Son of Spencer John and Mabel Newey, 62 Wake Green Rd., Moseley, Birmingham
House Prefect.
Husband of Anne Newey, of Bassett, Hampshire.
Assoc. Auctioneers and Surveyors Insts.
179 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Wellington bombers.
27th December 1942. F/O Newey and crew in 'M' took off at 08:36 on a patrol sweep westward.
At midday an S.O.S. was received from aircraft 'M' referring to engine trouble in position 3620N 1240W. The aircraft and crew failed to return to base.
Dec 1942 Operations AIR-27_1126_7
Detail AIR-27_1126_8
Son of W. E. N., Arden, Coldharbour Lane, Bushey, Herts.
Math. VI. Milward Math. Prize. Math. Essay. Warrington Exhibn. Scholar.
St John's College, Cambridge.
Son of Christopher and Phyllis Clare Owen, of Lustleigh, Devon, and Annfield, Dickoya, Ceylon.
106 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Lancaster bombers with W/Cmd Guy Gibson being with the squadron for a year whose last sortie was on the 11th March 1943, before being put in charge of 617 Squadron and being awarded the Victoria Cross for the Dam-Busters raid on 16–17 May 1943. On 16 January 1943, Gibson took the BBC's war correspondent, Richard Dimbleby on a sortie to Berlin.
Sgt Owen was killed on a bombing raid on Essen on the 12th March 1943 with F/Sgt McDonald as the Pilot. The other 11 aircraft in the squadron managed to return and the operation was deemed a success with accurate bombing in the 'face of very fierce opposition'.
March 1943 Operations AIR 27/833/5
and AIR 27/833/6
Combat report
Richard Dimbleby
Son of Alfred Henry Parry and of Beatrice Elizabeth Parry (nee Fairbairn), Parasia P.O., Central Provinces, India.
Sci. V.
In business (Anglo-Iranian Oil Co.).
Husband of Margery Cunningham Parry (nee Work), of Ashtead, Surrey.
254 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The unit operated Bristol Blenheims, and in 1941 introduced torpedos and primarily operated in an anti-shipping role.
'The aircraft, F.B. Blenheim N.3609 with Pilot Officer J.A. Parry as pilot, took off from RAF Sumburgh, Shetlands, on a Day Patrol at 12.45 on the 9th April 1941 to gain experience with another aircraft Blenheim V.5736 in carrying out a reconnaissance of the Norwegian coast. The two aircraft after completing the reconnaissance, set course for base and were about four miles from the Norwegian Coast when three Me 110s appeared, closing rapidly from astern. Both aircraft took evasive action; Blenheim N.3609 passed the other and disappeared into cloud, Blenheim V.5736 also resorted to cloud cover. When Blenheim V.5736 appeared a few minutes later, there was no aircraft visible, so continued on course to base. At 15.35 hours, approximately 50 miles from base, Blenheim V.5736 heard Blenheim N.3609 calling base. Blenheim V.5736 landed at 16.00 hours.
When Blenheim N.3609 was two hours overdue, five Blenheims were despatched on organised parallel search for approximately 90 miles along track between base and point of leaving Norwegian coast. Speedboat from Lerwick co-operated. Nothing was sighted.
The crew of the missing aircraft was P/O J.A. Parry - Pilot, P/O C.G. Gibson - Observer, Sgt R.K. West - W/Op/A.G.'
Missing report: Air 81/5780
April 1941 Operations AIR-27_1514_25
Son of Dr. Dufrig Hughes Pennant and Rachel Pennant, Penydre, Saundersfoot, Pembrokeshire.
Husband of Elizabeth Thomson Pennant.
137 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Hurricane Mk.IV fighter-bombers from June 1943 until February 1944 when the Hurricane was exchanged for the Hawker Typhoon.
On the 14th April 1945, F/S Pennant was the leader of four Typhoon aircraft which took off at 17.01 from Helmond in Holland and were directed by Yalelock to houses near Verden (a town 10 miles to the east of Bremen in Germany). A factory among the houses was hit and damaged. F/S Pennant was hit by flak and crashed, the aircraft exploding on the ground. The remaining aircraft returned at 17.56.
137 Squadron Operation records, April 1945: Air 27/954/86
Summary AIR-27_954_85
Combat report AIR-50_59_7
Son of R. G. P.(O.M.), Boxcroft, Langley Park Rd., Sutton, Surrey.
Serv. V. S. Prefect. Shooting Cols.
2nd Gt. War, F/O., R.A.F.
Killed due to flying accident in Gutersloh, Germany, March 1949.
Son of G. H. Pearson-Perry (O.M.), Portland Ho., Pedmore, Stourbridge.
Head of House. School Prefect.
Engineer M.I.M.E. Director of Mobberly & Derry.
Lieut. 7th Bn. Worcestershire Regt.
605 Sqdn.Royal Air Force (Auxiliary Air Force)
Fighter squadron with Hawker Hurricanes.
'Humorous, high-spirited but essentially level-headed, George Perry threw himself with energy into all that he undertook. At school his most outstanding talent was his marksmanship. He had long been interested in Flying and several years before the War was a Flight-Lieutenant in the Auxiliary Air Force. He was the son of G. H. Pearson-Perry (§.87) and was married to Ruth, third daughter of Charles Toppin. ' (Malvernian, Mar 1941).
Combat report:
'S/Ldr Perry, 605 Squadron, 22.5.40
As ‘B’ Flight Leader after losing contact with ‘A’ Flight at 1200 hours owing to cloud, and patrolling S.W. of Arras for 10 minutes, I turned to engage a small formation of doubtful aircraft. I lost sight of them until B.3 forged ahead pointing the way. The Section followed up on his attack but ‘glycol’ was seen to be coming from his machine as he broke away. The two HE:111s then separated and the starboard one was shot down finally by Green Section while Cooper-Slipper and myself engaged the port E/A. Two of the crew escaped by parachute and the enemy aircraft crashed after my final burst of fire. It has sustained previous damage to the tail unit and I think the starboard engine. Ammunition being expended and the flight split up all aircraft was ordered to return to base. I encountered 4 ME.109 on my return but evaded them in cloud and pancaked at 13.15 hours.'
Operation Records:
Hawkinge. 27th May 1940, Red 1 (S/Ldr Perry flying Hurricane P.3423) took off at 14:35, and followed by Red Section attacked 3 Dorniers. After encounter, ammunition mainly expended and on breakaway encountered 15 Messerschmitt 109s five miles S.W. Dunkirk. Six aircraft returned to base 15.55. S/Ldr Perry, F/O Danielson missing.
Combat report at National Archives AIR-50_169_114
May 1940 Ops AIR-27_2088_9
Detail AIR-27_2088_10
Son of G.H. Peters (O.M.), 6 Sylvan Way, Bognor.
Math V.
Solicitor.
79 Sqdn. Royal Air Force
'He was articled to his father, G. H. B. Peters (6.98) and qualified as a Solicitor in July, 1936. During that time he was a Lieutenant in the 4th Battalion (Territorial) of the Royal Sussex Regt. He joined the R.A.F. at the end of 1937. He was killed in a fight over the Irish Sea on September 29th. A list of his victories supplied by his Squadron Intelligence Officer shows that he had destroyed three enemy aircraft certainly, and had to his credit two more probables and other possibles; he also broke up a formation of thirty bombers over Kent on August 31st by making a "head on" attack. He was at first with a bomber squadron but changed to the fighter squadron of which he was a very popular member.' (Malvernian, Dec 1940).
Gravestone Inscription:
“KILLED IN ACTION BATTLE OF BRITAIN”
Son of Arnold and Ursula Phillips, of Godalming, Surrey, and 25 Coal Exchange, London EC4.
With Prudential Assur. Co., Ltd.
Joined R.A.F.V.R. before the war. Instructor 1940. F/L Malta Squadron.
Son of Horace Lionel Potter, and of Florence Jane Potter, of Penn, Oatlands Chase, Weybridge, Surrey.
Bus V.
Clerk in N. Y. K. Line.
Wireless Operator.
115 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
His squadron, in August 1941, undertook the initial Service trials of Gee, the first of the great radar navigational and bombing aids. (Gee was developed on the grounds of Malvern College as Malvern relocated to Blenheim Palace and then Harrow during the war). As a result of its subsequent report on these trials Gee was put into large-scale production for RAF Bomber Command.
Lancaster bombers replaced the Wellingtons in March 1943.
Son of V. J. Radbone, Crown Ho., Crown Ho., Aldwych.
Swimming Cols. (Capt.).
Emmanuel College, Cambridge. B.A.
Aeronautical Engineer.
'Killed in an accident on August 4th when flying on active service. After leaving School, where he was Captain of Swimming, he went up to Emmanuel College, Cambridge, and later became an Aeronautical Engineer Flying Officer, Reserve of R.A.F.' (Malvernian, Dec 1940).
Son of Charles Knowles Rayson and of Linda Knowles Rayson, of Norton Hall, Worcester and of Westminster, London. B.A. (Cantab.).
Math. V. House Prefect. Fives Pair.
Clare College, Cambridge. B.A. 1926
Morgan Engineering.
Gravestone photo
Son of Frank Branson Richards and of Harriett Louise Richards (nee Bowman), of San Francisco, California, U.S.A, and Merlins Mead, Riversdale, Bourne End, Bucks.61 Sqdn.
Math V. Football XXII.
Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve 61 Sqdn
Beginning operations with Hampdens, the squadron converted in July 1941 to the more modern Manchesters and later (spring 1942), Lancaster bombers.
His brother Branson also died on service.
Son of William Stuart Robertson and Margaret Robertson, of Lyme Regis, Dorsetshire, and Uplands, Brocton, Stafford.
Class VI.
106 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Manchester, and then Lancaster bombers, taking part in the 1,000-bomber raids on Cologne, Essen and Bremen, and in 1942 in the first "shuttle-bombing" raids of Friedrichshafen and Spezia, and the attack on Peenemunde.
He was Captain on Lancaster DV182 which took off at 19.50 on 5th Sept 1943 to bomb Manheim. 'Nothing was heard from this aircraft after takeoff'.
106 sqdr operations in Sep 1943
Detail AIR-27_833_18
Combat report
Son of R.H. Sandon, 6 Half Moon St., Piccadilly
Mod. Lan. V. White Medal.
142 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew night bombing missions over Germany and occupied western Europe in the Vickers Wellington heavy bomber.
P/O Sandon took off from Grimsby on aircraft BJ915 with a crew of 4 on the 16th Sept 1942 at 20:22 with a bomb load of 810 x 4lb Incendiaries to attack Essen. The aircraft failed to return with no news after take-off. Seven aircraft from his Squadron were involved in the raid with 3 failing to return.
142 Sqdn. Sep 1942 Operations Detail, AIR-27-973-18
142 Sqdn. Sep 1942 Operations Summary, AIR-27-973-18
Son of Theodore Horace and Helen Mabel Savory, of Wentworth House, Priory Rd., Malvern.
Sci V. House Prefect.
Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
Son of Henry and Mary Scard, 30 Hamilton Terr., Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire.
Husband of Marguerite L. Scard, of Llandaff, Cardiff.
Royal Institute of British Architects. Archibald Dawnay Scholarship (Welsh Sch of Architecture, Cardiff).
37 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Vickers Wellington bombers in the Middle East from November 1940.
P/O Scard took off at 20:05 on the 9th May 1942 in Wellington B.8987 and was detailed to attack shipping at Benghazi, but no news was heard of the aircraft after take off, and was reported missing.
37 Sqdn. Operation records, May 1942 AIR 27/390/9
Detail AIR 27/390/10
Son of Major Thomas Richard Barter Seigne, formerly Royal Field Artillery, and of Anna Eliza Seigne, of St. Anns Hill, Co Cork, Ireland.
Boxing Cols.
149 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Vickers Wellington bombers and then, in November 1941, the Short Stirling, taking part in the first 1,000 bomber raid.
Combat report:
On the night of October 15/16th 1942, Captain Sgt Siwak was at 2053 hours about 5 miles west of the Cologne area, flying at a height of 12,000 feet and on a heading of 120 degrees. The I.A.S. was 150mph and bombs had not been dropped. An ME 110 approached from port quarter and just above to 400 yards. Mid upper Gunner, P/O Seigne fired one short burst. E/A passed over our aircraft, stall turned and approached from starboard quarter. As he came in to 100 yards, Mid Upper Gunner P/O Seigne and Rear Gunner Sgt Taylor each fired a short burst. E/A passed close over our aircraft and was lost to port. No. I.F.F. and no moon. The E/A was lit up by the light of flares. E/A did not open fire.
On 7th November 1942 P/O Seigne was the Mid Upper Gunner on a Stirling bomber with Genoa (Ansalds Works) as the target.
He is not mentioned in the operational records of the 10th November.
Combat report AIR-50_219_30
November 1942 Operations AIR-27-1002-21
November 1942 Operations AIR-27-1002-22 Detail
Son of John and Florence S. Shaw, of 36 Armorial Road Coventry.
Math. V. Ledbury Cap. School Prefect. Swimming Cols.
Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
Son of Thomas Bailey Tate, C.S.I. (5.01), and Decima Tate, of Alnmouth, Northumberland, and Eglingham Lea, Eglingham, Northumberland.
Sci. V.
Jesus College, Cambridge.
83 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Handley Page Hampden bombers with raids against German naval and coastal targets, including against concentrations of Invasion shipping in the Channel Ports in the late summer/autumn of 1940, with a raid on Antwerp on the night of 15 September 1940.
'"Nicky" was captain and navigator of a bomber, which made a forced landing off Holland on the return journey from Germany, and is presumed to have been killed then. His death will be keenly felt by all his contemporaries and many friends.' (Malvernian, Dec 1941).
The following is an extract from the report on the fate of the crash:
Hampden AD.835 with crew of four took off from Scampton at 22.05 on 25.7.1941 for an attack on Hanover, but failed to return. A telegram from the International Red Cross states that the pilot Sgt Draper was taken prisoner and Sgts Tate, Marsden and Ireson were killed.
Sgt Tate was acting as the Navigator. The aircraft was attacked by a German Night Fighter just off the coast of Schiermonnikoog.
The pilot states: 'There was first one burst of cannon fire fired at us from a fighter. The gunners never saw him and I presume both of them to have been killed in the attack. The starboard inner fuel tank was hit and in due course exploded. It contained 160 gallons of petrol which burnt very rapidly owing to the wind fanning it. Myself and Nicky (Tate) were unhurt so I gave orders to abandon the machine before the other fuel tanks blew up. I then presume Nicky baled out through his emergency exit and I proceeded to leave. At this stage my feet were trapped inside the machine whilst I was outside. I could do nothing until another fuel tank exploded and blew me clear. I then came down by parachute and was very fortunate in first landing on the beach. Owing to the fact that I was very near the ground when my parachute opened the wind did not make me drift very far. I presume what happened to Nicky was that he came out much before I did and much higher, and the wind took him out to sea.'
The aircraft Hampden AD 835 took off at 22:00 on the 25th July 1941 to bomb Hanover, and crashed at 23:55 on the foreshore of Schiermonnikoog on the north coast of the Netherlands near KM Pole 8 N. It seems that Sgt Tate's body was washed up from the sea and that Marsden and Draper were still in the aircraft.
Report at National Archives: AIR 81/7885
July 1941 Ops AIR-27_686_37
July 1941 Ops Detail AIR-27_686_38
Son of J. M. Tucker, 5 Paper Buildings, Temple, E.C.4.
Sci. V.
78 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Armstrong Whitworth Whitley night bombers, and in February 1941, flying from Malta, were used to drop paratroops over southern Italy for Operation Colossus, the first British paratroop operation of the Second World War.
Aircraft Whitley V Z.6754 was airborne from Middleton-St-George at 23.06 on 16th Aug 1941. It was shot down and crashed near Roermond, Holland.
The crew were Sergeant J H Malet-Warden, Sergeant J C Beardmore, Sergeant A J R Millard-Tucker, Sergeant G H Buchanan (RCAF), Flight Sergeant A Brown.
Aug 1941 Operations AIR-27-660-27
Aug 1941 Operations AIR-27-660-27 Detail:
Missing report: AIR 81/8369
Son of Vincent Rawson Scott Vickers and Gwyneth Howard Vickers, of Yew Trees, Wye, Kent.
Mod. Lan. V. Cricket XL.
Diploma in Estate Management, Wye College A.L.A.S.
Asiatic Petroleum Co.
104 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew the Bristol Blenheim before converting to the Vickers Wellington bomber in 1941.
F/O D.R. Vickers was on Aircraft V.LN386 which took off from Oudna in Tunisia at 16.42 on 24th November 1943 for a bombing raid on the ball bearing factory at Turin. The aircraft was reported as Missing. Many of the 14 other aircraft reported very bad weather and poor visibility and none managed to locate the factory.
Nov 1943 Operations Detail AIR-27-821-70
Nov 1943 Operations Summary AIR-27-821-69
Son of L. A. P. Warner, Yew Tree, Poplar Rd, Oxton, Birkenhead.
School Prefect. Swimming Colours (1935-37). Sergt. In Corps.
610 Sqdn. Royal Air Force (Auxiliary Air Force)
The squadron flew Spitfires, and was based at RAF Biggin Hill, taking part in the Battle of Britain, and being one of the units that bore the brunt of German attacks.
'He was in the R.A.F. Reserve as qualified pilot before the War and was called up at once. He took part in the first heavy week's fighting in the Channel off Dover and was shot down over the sea on August 16th. On the previous day his squadron, under his leadership, had destroyed ten of the enemy in the morning and three in the afternoon. Naturally modest and with an unfailing spirit of cheerfulness, his steadiness and equanimity made him as popular with his Squadron as in his House at Malvern. (F.S.P.) ' (Malvernian, Dec 1940).
Combat report:
Date: 27.5.40. Time: 19:05. Flight A. Sqdn: 610. South of Dunkirk
One HE 111 was attacked by three aircraft and when I attacked it, it was pouring out smoke from both engines. I gave a short burst of about 2 seconds, and had to break away owing to the e/a going too slowly. He used no evasive tactics. After that we were attacked by ME 110’s and we broke up and selected our own targets. I attacked one formation and then saw one on my own tail. I turned and got a deflection shot in at another and broke away. Another came on my tail and followed me down to about 15,000 feet when I got away in the smoke which was coming from Dunkerque and returned to base. My a/c was hit twice once at the root end of the airscrew and once through the tip of the port main–plane.
Date: 29.5.40. Time: 17:30. Flight A. Sqdn: 610. South of Dunkirk. Aircraft: Spitfire
I attacked 1 ME 109 near Dunkirk and gave it about an eight second burst. This aircraft seemed to dive very steeply and a plume of smoke came from it. The aircraft may possibly have been damaged. I broke off that engagement and attacked another and finished my remaining ammunition. I then set course for base. Half way over the channel, an E.A. Me 109 attacked me twice and shot a hole in my petrol tank at the bottom and another in the radiator. I force landed the aircraft N.E. of Dover.
After the first attack on my return journey, I climbed into a cloud, and the E.A. must have followed me, as when I came out he delivered another attack and shot my glycol radiator. On landing I inspected the aircraft and found sixteen holes, three of which I presumed to be cannon. The control wires of the starboard aileron had also been cut in two.
Squadron Operations:
15th August 1940. Biggin Hill.
8 aircraft ordered to intercept E/A approaching Biggin Hill about 10 miles to the S.E. They met about 25 D.O.215s escorted by many M.E.109s. The bombers flying at 14,000ft and the fighters at 16,000ft. F/Lt Warner, flying Spitfire Z. R.6808, attacked a M.E.109, gave it 3 long burst, smoke came from the fuselage & it dived down vertically.
16th August 1940. Red, Blue, Green & Yellow sections took off from Hawkinge to intercept raid in Dungeness. They encountered 50 J.U.88s escorted by 12 M.E.109s at 25,000 ft. Enemy casualties: Probable 1 M.E.109. Damaged 1 JU88, 1 ME109. Our Casualties: 1 Pilot missing (F/Lt Warner - Spitfire Z. R.6808).
Combat reports
Landing accident with Hurricane in 1939
Aug 1940 Squadron Ops AIR-27_2106_17
Aug 1940 Squadron Ops Detail AIR-27_2106_18
Son of George Herbert (O.M. No 6. 1896) and Constance Gifford Watson, of Briar Cottage, Blackwell, Darlington, Co. Durham.
Army VI. House Prefect. L.-Corporal in O.T.C.
Cranwell.
Husband of Mary Watson, of Farnborough, Hampshire.
82 Sqdn. Royal Air Force
The squadron flew Blenheim light bombers with anti-shipping missions over the North Sea, including sinking a U-boat in March 1940.
On 17 May 1940, it suffered very heavy losses with 11 out of 12 Blenheims shot down by Messerschmitt 109s over Belgium.
From early 1941, the squadron played a prominent part in No. 2 Group's offensive against shipping in the English Channel and North Sea.
A detachment was sent to Malta in May 1941, with the rest of the Squadron following in June. It flew against enemy shipping and ports through into July, but extremely heavy losses lead to it being withdrawn, back to the UK at the end of the month.
'From Malvern he went on to Cranwell and his promotion was rapid for he was a Pilot Officer before he was 21 and a Squadron Leader at 23.' (Malvernian, Jul 1941).
On the 6th May 1941, S/Ldr Watson discovered 2 ships North of Borkum and attacked a 2000 ton tanker.
On the 8th May 1941, 9 aircraft carried out a night raid on the docks at Bremerhaven. S/Ldr Watson saw two of his bombs bursting throwing up debris. His aircraft was hit in the port wing by flak.
On the 11th June 1941, Squadron Leader M L Watson, Pilot Officer N C Alers-Hankey, Sergeant K Poole: missing believed killed; aircraft failed to return from operational flight, Blenheim K6426, 82 Squadron.
May 1941 Operations AIR-27-681-38
June 1941 Operations AIR-27-681-39
Missing report: AIR 81/6839
Son of Philip Greville Hugh and Dorothy Constance Way, of Hinton St. George, Somerset, and Merriott House, Merriott, Somerset.
Army VI. School Prefect. Shooting VIII 1934-36 (Capt.)
Cranwell.
54 Sqdn. Royal Air Force
The squadron flew Spitfires providing air cover for the evacuation of Dunkirk, and fought in the Battle of Britain. It was based at RAF Hornchurch and used RAF Manston as a forward operating base.
'Perhaps the most distinctive characteristic of Basil Way was his unobtrusiveness. His manner was as quiet as his voice and his slow smile, and at first one might well fail to realise the thoroughness and efficiency which were also part of him.
When he came to Malvern in 1931 he was in the Lower School and so lightly built as to appear frail, so that he seemed unlikely to make much of a mark here :- but by the time he left he was in the Sixth, a School Prefect, and Captain of the Shooting Eight. He was also an exceptionally good slow bowler, and if he had not given so much of his time to shooting, he might well have been in the Cricket XI; while at Football he played an important part in the team which brought the House Cup to No. 7 after a gap of 30 years.
But his heart was set on Flying, and perhaps his happiest years were spent at Cranwell, where in 1938 he won the Groves Memorial Prize for all round efficiency. He showed an exceptional aptitude and skill in handling aircraft, and at the end of his training he achieved his great ambition and was posted to a Fighter squadron. He was equally good under service conditions, and it was while leading a flight of Spitfires over the Thames Estuary last June that he was lost in pushing home a bold attack with his small command against overwhelming odds. R.T.C.' (Malvernian, Mar 1941).
Combat report. 24th July 1940.
I was leading the Squadron on patrol off Deal and N. Foreland. Sighted formation of Bombers to North heading up Thames Estuary. After approaching to within about 5 miles of Bombers, I discovered the presence of numerous escorting fighters, which we were forced to engage.
A general dog-fight ensued during which I got in good bursts at close range, at two ME 109s. The first did a half-roll and vertical dive into cloud, emitting glycol from radiators. The second emitted black smoke and Assumption; stalled and spun into cloud. Later gave short burst and finished ammunition on a third. Result unknown as I had to avoid another on my tail.
The following day on the 25th July 1940, flying Spitfire R 6707, he took off at 14:30 and was seen by P/O Gribble pursuing a Me 109 and that the pilot of the e/a baled out. He was then reported as missing.
Squadron Operations:
Hornchurch, 25th July 1940. Black Thursday. The Squadron on two occasions bore the brunt of heavy enemy attacks.
14:32. 100 plus plotted on convoys between Deal and Dover. 'B' Flight encountered 'hordes of JU 87s' with the usual escort of Me109s. Red section were despatched to assist 'B' Flight, but no other friendly aircraft were seen until we were leaving the scene of action. 1 Me109 destroyed, confirmed (F/Lt Way), 1 Me109 probably destroyed (P.O. Gray) and 1 Me109 damaged (S/Ldr Leathart) was claimed. The loss of F/Lt Way (missing) in this section was a great tragedy. That he accounted for an enemy aircraft before meeting his unknown fate is typical of his keenness and great courage in the face of odds large or small.
Combat reports, Feb, May 1940: AIR-50-21-74_1
July 1940: AIR-50-21-74_2
Squadron Operations July 1940 AIR-27_511_22
Squadron Operations July 1940 Detail AIR-27_511_23
Son of Harry Lucas Webb and Florence Julia Webb, of Hutchins Barn, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire.
Math. V. House Prefect.
Clare College, Cambridge.
635 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Lancaster bombers from RAF Downham Market in Norfolk.
F/L H.J.L. Webb was Captain of 1 of 14 aircraft detailed to attack Nurnberg on the 30th March 1944, and was 1 of 3 that did not return.
March 1944 Ops AIR-27_2155_1
March 1944 Ops Detail AIR-27_2155_2
Son of Herbert John West Wildbore and Lilian Wildbore, of Effingham Lodge, Copthorne Bank, Sussex.
Son of Mr. and Mrs. H. W. Wilkinson, The Hurst, Mottingham, SE9.
Husband of Denise Ludlow Wilkinson, of Farnborough, Kent.
Son of John and Eveline Maud Wilson, of Richmond Ho., Elms Rd., Leicester.
Mod. Lan. V.
102 Sqdn. Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The squadron flew Handley Page Halifax heavy bombers.
He was an Observer and killed in a bombing raid over Cologne.
Feb 1943 Ops AIR-27_809_3
Feb 1943 Ops Detail AIR-27_809_4
