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Help Wanted!     Requests 600-799

[Requests 1 - 399] [Requests 400-599] [Requests 800-1000] [Requests 1001-1200]


If you would like to post a request for information please submit it to me using the link below and I will publish it on this page, please do not change the subject title.   If you can answer any of the queries posted, please submit your reply below, please indicate which request you are replying to: -

Send your request here


Request 799.    Posted 5 Feb 2010

I currently restoring an ex RAF Bedford MW.  I have found very few published photographs of these RAF vehicles in service in any theatre, in any time period.  Surprising for what was such a common small truck that saw a lot of service.  Army ones yes, RAF - no! I am wanting to request that anyone who might have any photographs in their albums/scrapbooks that show these vehicles in any small way might send me a copy.  It does not matter what or who else is in the photo, but for my own part I would be interested to hear!  Obviously this is assuming the owner has access to a scanner.  These pictures would only be for my own use to get any markings or paint schemes correct, and would not be published anywhere.
 
restrachan 'at' hotmail.co.uk
 
Thanks in anticipation of any offers


Request 798.    Posted 5 Feb 2010

I'd love to find Bill Brookes (or his descendants), who was a pilot based in Lincolnshire towards the end of WW2.

It's on behalf of my father Eric Geoffrey Dunn (Geoff) was served as a rear gunner on Lancasters with Bill Brookes.

Mr Brookes was something of a hero to dad, and saved the crew's lives with his brilliant flying.

Many thanks

Sue Boulding, Lane End Cottage, Baschurch, Shropshire, SY4 2HB


Request 796.    Posted 30 Jan 2010

Looking for information about a second World War pilot  Flight Sergeant B. I. J. Morris (1300849)  Royal Air Force/RAFVR  who completed a tour of operation in Wellingtons/Liberators in the Middle East. He was awarded the DFM with 40sqn in Sep 1943. He ended his career as Flt Lt (156140) in 1963.

I believe he may have called himself "Johnny" Morris, possibly born in Johannesburg!

Regards

Steve


Request 795.    Posted 30 Jan 2010

Seeking Mr Chad

I'm looking for actual photographic images -- not a drawing on some website -- of the famous Mr Chad of WWII fame. Chad is thought by some to be the precursor of the "Kilroy was here" caricature. Originally drawn by the artist George Edward Chatterton, Chad first appeared in 1938 on a poster for a dance at RAF Cardington Bedfordshire in England. 

Later at RAF Farnborough and RAF Little Rissington in 1938/1939, Chatterton designed and drew posters which used Chad as a memory aid to remind servicemen and RAF personnel to return tools and equipment from where they came (these posters were somtimes altered to suit the sections in which they were displayed, e.g.: in the aircraft electrical sections one eye was altered to a - and the other eye to a + to denote negative and positive current).

Lastly, it has been reported that Chad appeared on the fuselage of a glider during Operation Market Garden asking "Wot! No engines?".

Any help would be greatly appreciated.


Request 794.    Posted 22 Jan 2010

I am trying to trace the regiment a Hugh Hefin Roberts was in. I know he was at Sullom Voe, Shetland for part of the 2nd World War and then went to Burma.  His number was1506893. Any help would be appreciated.

S. Rendle


Request 793.    Posted 2 Jan 2010

I am interested in tracing the name and routing of a troopship that may have carried RAF personnel and others home from Denmark to England in November 1945. At that time my father was serving as a LAC/GD based at RAF 124 Wing HQ in Lubeck on the Baltic coast. On demob he left Lubeck on 3 November 1945, passed into Denmark, and arrived at 100 PDC in Uxbridge on 8 November 1945. It seems probable that he would have sailed to the UK in a troopship but I have no evidence. The obvious route was from Esbjerg to Harwich but there are other possibilities as the port of Copenhagen was also open and several UK ports were in use between Harwich and Dover. Can anyone help me to identify the ship and the route?

If my assumption of a sea trip is wrong and men were actually being flown home from Denmark, I would still be most grateful for any information.

Many thanks; Peter Bowen


Request 792.    Posted 27 Dec 2009

I am searching for any information about NZ40750 Sqn Ldr Richard Bruce Berney AFC, DFM, MiD and DFC (US)

34 ops 115 Sqn RAF

20 ops 75 (NZ) Sqn, RAF

12 ops 528 Sqn RAF

I am related by my late grandmother Barbara Dorothy Berney being a twin sister with Richard Bruce Berney.

Any information regarding Richard Berney would be most appreciated – particularly any information about how he earned the AFC, DFM, mid, DFC (US) medals.


Request 791.    Posted 27 Dec 2009

I am researching the history of the former RAF North Coates which goes back to 1916 through to 1992. This research is now approaching its 14th year with many unknown facts uncovered. I would be pleased to hear from anybody who can help in this research especially with sightings of aircraft visiting rather than based squadron aircraft

Thank you

BRIAN STAFFORD

North Coates Flying Club


Request 790.    Posted 27 Dec 2009

I am trying to trace what happened to Flt. Sgt David Fowkes, who served with 576 Squadron as a rear gunner flying Lancasters from RAF Fiskerton with Croft's Crew, which also included my late father Sgt Bertram William Roberts, between Oct 1944 and May 1945. I have already traced or learned about all the rest of the crew (the bomb aimer,  John Musgrove, an Australian surgeon, is still alive today). I have been told, true or not I know not, that Flt Sgt Fowkes was awarded the DFM and is said to have completed a total of 2 tours on Lancs, although I have not been able to trace this.  If the latter is true, he must have been among the luckiest rear gunners in all Bomber Command !  He seems just to have vanished after the end of the war, so any information at all would be most gratefully received.  Thank you, Sir.  C. ('Robbie') Roberts.


Request 789.    Posted 27 Dec 2009

I would like to contact anyone who served in the RAF at 114 MU Naples 1946 and 239 wing Treviso and 137 MU Malta 1947


Request 788.    Posted 20 Dec 2009

I am trying to find information on Squadron Leader Stanley Brecken Pilot 5/73-11/75 D2008, any information would be gratefully appreciated.

Thank you

Philip Chaplin


Request 787.    Posted 11 Dec 2009

I'm trying to trace the families of the crew of Hampden AD750 of 105 Squadron RAF, which crashed  near Nantes (Loire-Atlantique)in France on the 4th Feb 1941. The crew were:

Name: THOMAS, WILLIAM KELMAN BURR Initials: W K B Nationality: United Kingdom Rank: Flying Officer (Pilot) Regiment/Service: Royal Air Force Unit Text: 106 Sqdn. Date of Death: 04/02/1941 Service No: 72251 Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Plot L. Row A. Joint grave 16. Cemetery: NANTES (PONT-DU-CENS) COMMUNAL CEMETERY

Name: INNISS, GEORGE HAROLD FREDERICK Initials: G H F Nationality: United Kingdom Rank: Pilot Officer (Pilot) Regiment/Service: Royal Air Force Unit Text: 106 Sqdn. Age: 24 Date of Death: 04/02/1941 Service No: 43036 Additional information: Son of Charles H. Inniss and Caroline Inniss, of Barbados. Arts Graduate of Durham University. Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Plot L. Row A. Grave 15.

Name: FRANCO, JACK LEWIS Initials: J L Nationality: United Kingdom Rank: Sergeant (W.Op./Air Gnr.) Regiment/Service: Royal Air Force Unit Text: 106 Sqdn. Age: 24 Date of Death: 04/02/1941 Service No: 652586 Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Plot L. Row A. Grave 14.

Name: COLSON, FREDERICK ARNOLD Initials: F A Nationality: United Kingdom Rank: Sergeant (W.Op./Air Gnr.) Regiment/Service: Royal Air Force Unit Text: 106 Sqdn. Age: 18 Date of Death: 04/02/1941 Service No: 553425 Additional information: Son of Frederick Thomas Colson and Ada Margaret Colson, of Norwich, Norfolk. Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Plot L. Row A. Joint grave 16.

Also relatives of the crew of Hampden AD750 of 106 Squadron

Airborne 1730 4Feb41 from Finningley for a mining operation off St- Nazaire (Beech Region). Crashed near Nantes (Loire-Atlantique)

Name: THOMAS, WILLIAM KELMAN BURR Initials: W K B Nationality: United Kingdom Rank: Flying Officer (Pilot) Regiment/Service: Royal Air Force Unit Text: 106 Sqdn. Date of Death: 04/02/1941 Service No: 72251 Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Plot L. Row A. Joint grave 16. Cemetery: NANTES (PONT-DU-CENS) COMMUNAL CEMETERY

Name: INNISS, GEORGE HAROLD FREDERICK Initials: G H F Nationality: United Kingdom Rank: Pilot Officer (Pilot) Regiment/Service: Royal Air Force Unit Text: 106 Sqdn. Age: 24 Date of Death: 04/02/1941 Service No: 43036 Additional information: Son of Charles H. Inniss and Caroline Inniss, of Barbados. Arts Graduate of Durham University. Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Plot L. Row A. Grave 15.

Name: FRANCO, JACK LEWIS Initials: J L Nationality: United Kingdom Rank: Sergeant (W.Op./Air Gnr.) Regiment/Service: Royal Air Force Unit Text: 106 Sqdn. Age: 24 Date of Death: 04/02/1941 Service No: 652586 Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Plot L. Row A. Grave 14.

Name: COLSON, FREDERICK ARNOLD Initials: F A Nationality: United Kingdom Rank: Sergeant (W.Op./Air Gnr.) Regiment/Service: Royal Air Force Unit Text: 106 Sqdn. Age: 18 Date of Death: 04/02/1941 Service No: 553425 Additional information: Son of Frederick Thomas Colson and Ada Margaret Colson, of Norwich, Norfolk. Casualty Type: Commonwealth War Dead Grave/Memorial Reference: Plot L. Row A. Joint grave 16.

Best wishes

Jonathan Ives


Request 786.    Posted 11 Dec 2009

I am trying to trace any information about Wing Commander W.C. (Bill) Pitts. An Irishman born in Buncrana, Co. Donegal, he joined RAF Intelligence in 1930. He left the RAF in 1947. About his service career I know little other than he spent a considerable time in the Far East, probably the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia). Any information at all would be very useful.

John King


Request 785.    Posted 4 Dec 2009

I am trying to trace information about my late father's cousin, Squadron Leader Raymond Wynne Price (Service No. 186496).

He was born in 1921, and became an officer in the RAFVR in 1944/45. He progressed to Squadron Leader in the RAF, and retired in 1974. I've got all of his career stages from the London Gazette.

Apparently he served in General Duties branch, but I don't know which squadron(s).

All I do know is that he visited Burma during World War 2, and Malaya after the war. He received the Queens Commendation for Valuable Service in the Air twice.

I'm told he may have retired to South Wales (perhaps Pembrokeshire).

I would be very grateful for any help or advice in tracking down more information about him and, hopefully, his family.

Thanks,

John Wynne


Request 784.    Posted 4 Dec 2009

I have been and continue to research the genealogy of my family, having written a book detailing the family back to the 1300’s. A number of family members served in the RAF and I would like to obtain any information that is available on the following:-

1.Squadron Leader Percival James (Jim or Perce) Jorden – Pilot in W W II not known whether bomber or fighters. Was stationed in Malta, Coltishall and Credenhill, Hereford at times during his career.

2. Ronald Edwards – Pilot (from Monmouthshire) little known except that he crashed his plane in Devon or Cornwall at some time with subsequent investigation.

3. John Benfield – Pilot Officer, commissioned Cranwell (c1952) carried out some of his training in Manitoba, Canada.  Thought to have left service before commission completed.

4. Kenneth Johnstone Benfield – had degree in coal utilisation and worked with Sir Frank Whittle on development of jet engine.

If anyone has any information on any of these gentlemen I would be very grateful to hear from you. Thank you.

Also I saw a notice posted some years ago referring to Air Marshall Sir Richard Bowen Jordan. I would very much like to contact any of his family or descendants as I believe that he may be connected with our family of Bowens and Jorden/Jordans.


Request 783.    Posted 4 Dec 2009

I am trying to find information about Irene Dempster Cox (nee Philip) and John Mitchell Cox. They were married in 1961, when I believe they were based at RAF Henlow. John was a radio instructor, and Irene was a clerk. Any information at all about this couple in the past or present would be welcomed. Thank you.


Request 782.    Posted 27 Nov 2009

The author of a new book on Manchester aviators Alcock and Brown’s first non-stop Atlantic flight in June 1919 has launched a nationwide search for a missing propeller from their Vickers Vimy biplane.

Brendan Lynch, whose YESTERDAY WE WERE IN AMERICA chronicles the trailblazing flight, said; “Alcock, sadly, died six months afterwards. It would be great if this priceless piece of British aviation heritage was found in time for the 90th anniversary of his death in December.”

John Alcock and Arthur Whitten Brown survived continuous cloud, snow and ice, a non-functioning wireless and a near-fatal stall during their 16-hour flight from Newfoundland to Ireland. With no modern aids and depending solely on Dead Reckoning, they covered a record-breaking 1880 miles. They completed the first ocean flight and established the feasibility of long-distance aviation.

Brendan Lynch explained; “The missing propeller hung for many years in Brown’s Swansea office. He donated it to the RAF who displayed  it in their Holborn, London offices until it disappeared during a 1990s rebuilding.  Made by Dashwood Lang, the four-bladed wooden prop measures 10’5” in diameter and should carry the approximate markings; G1184. N/G Series 273A/DRG. A54/330H .PRollsRoyce.”

Mr Lynch concluded; “The RAF should have taken better care of the historic prop– it may have been sold off with other artefacts – but I am confident that it is still intact and probably lying unrecognised in some mess or store. But the longer it is neglected, the greater the odds on its destruction. It must be found soon and I would welcome any news of its whereabouts at brendanlynchbooks.com.”

Anthony Kilmister of Northwood, Middx, whose parents and family were close to Sir Arthur and Lady Whitten Brown, supports the search; “I remember the propeller very well, I saw it every time I visited Sir Arthur’s office in Wind Street, Swansea. I am delighted that a determined effort is being made to locate it in time for the anniversary of John Alcock’s death on December 18.”

The late Steve Fossett described Alcock and Brown as “rare aviators and real heroes.” Author Len Deighton paid tribute to them in his Foreword to YESTERDAY WE WERE IN AMERICA; “The story of this historical flight has been shamefully neglected. It marked a moment when British aviation might have led the world. Alcock and Brown showed the way but the lesson was not learned.” 

Ends.     Nov 28, 2009.      

(Further info; Brendan Lynch. 00 353 1 830 2511. Email; brendanlynch@iol.ie)


Request 781.    Posted 27 Nov 2009

I am seeking help in tracing anyone who knew my uncle Sgt James Milford jones RAFVR who was an observer with 21 OTU and 148 Sqn from Jan 1941 to Nov 1942 when he was missing on a raid to Benghazi my uncle was from Ynysybwl in South Wales.


Request 780.    Posted 27 Nov 2009

Calling all BAFO/ 2ATAF/ RAF Germany veterans...can you please help??

Has anybody out there got any aircraft photos in their albums or collections featuring aircraft of the RAF which have served in Germany from 1946 until the mid 1990`s? If so would you be willing to share them by helping me to illustrate a book which I`m hoping to get published on this interesting and often overlooked subject? I would appreciate any help you can offer and can be contacted using the link above

I would particularly like to make contact with Tony Mills, regarding his 71 Sqn Hunter  and 112 Sqn Sabre and Hunter photos and also Trevor Charnley regarding his 68 Sqn Meteor photo. 


Request 779.    Posted 27 Nov 2009

I'm looking for information and a photo "Lancaster, 61st squadron, LM 452".

During WWII of a bomber crashed in Oberseebach, Alsace, Germany now France..  This request was made to me by a cousin who was born in Oberseebach during the war.

Thank you.

Charles J. Sheridan


Request 778.    Posted 27 Nov 2009

Haddington History Society is currently preparing to hold an Exhibition in St Mary's Church, Haddington, East Lothian in May/June 2010.  In connection with this Exhibition, I am helping as a volunteer to research various aspects of East Lothian at War, and I have been asked to try and locate a photograph/and locate relatives of an Airman, who is buried in St Martin's Cemetery, Haddington.
His details are as follows:
Warrant Officer (Pilot) Wilkinson, Peter Turvey
Regiment: Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
Service No: 1348307
Age: 23
Date of Death:  22 October 1944
Son of Colin Clarence and Beatrice Wilkinson, of Wardie, Edinburgh
 
I wonder if anyone can help me to identify a source to locate the required information, please.
 
Margaret Ainslie


Request 777.    Posted 27 Nov 2009

Attached is a detail of a photograph from the State Library of New South Wales collection. The photograph shows an RAAF de Havilland Vampire, and was taken at Williamtown, NSW, on 6th March, 1956. I believe the gentleman is Air Commodore Guy Adnams (RAF). Guy Adnams became the Commanding Officer Base Squadron, RAAF Williamtown, around March 1955.

Can anyone confirm that this is Adnams and tell me if the woman shown is his wife? Is the Vampire named after her? What is the serial number of the Vampire? Further information on Adnam's RAAF years would be appreciated.

click to enlarge


Request 776.    Posted 27 Nov 2009

I am seeking information on the short wartime R.A.F. career of my uncle, John James Smith, who was killed when his Mustang was shot down over the English Channel, returning from a reconnaissance mission,  on 29 December 1942.  He was 21 years of age, was attached to the 2nd Squadron R.A.F. Volunteer Reserve and his service number was 1368998.  Any help would be much appreciated.

Thank you

Robin Francis


Request 775.    Posted 27 Nov 2009

Hi, i am looking for any info on an RAF Officer Wing Commander Frank Edgar Croce (Retired with the rank of Group Captain in 1963) who was awarded the Czech Pilots badge on 28/03/1942.
Ithink he may have been something to do with Bomber Command.I have his log books (3 of) from 1935 - 1960 & his Spinks made Bage & certificate .
He flew numerous types of planes in WW2 mainly on "Training " flights no squadrons are shown and most of the entries are in code of one form or another.

I've contacted Hendon they have no details of his wartime service (As in what he was doing & the award of the Czech Badge) they did show interest in his log books when i read out some of the entries (Beam tests & looking for possible landing Grounds June 1940).
I have the London Gazette entries for his service ,can anyone help me fill in the blanks ??

Many thanks Rick L.


Request 774.    Posted 22 Nov 2009

We are trying to find any information on Robert Brown of the RAF, he was stationed in Bulawayo, the in Rhodesia now Zimbabwe in the second world war. He was MIA in 1945. He was originally from Durham. Does any one know anything about him? He was my grandfather.

Best regards

Leigh Price


Request 773.    Posted 20 Nov 2009

Does anyone have any information regarding RAF Durrington and it's satellite site at Field Place West Sussex.

Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you.


Request 772.    Posted 20 Nov 2009

I am desperately looking for someone who may remember Doreen Prior from Gravesend 1940/41.  My name is Ann and I am Doreens daughter born may 1941. My father was RAF or possibly RCAF. Possibly a Pilot.  Does anyone remember this gentle man.   Possibly based at Biggin Hill and I know he visited Gravesend twice when the crews flew into Gravesend. I know it is unusual to put a request like this in this section but its my last chance I feel. Thank you


Request 771.    Posted 20 Nov 2009

Hello I am looking for anyone who may have known John Doyle posted at RAF Penrhos near Pwllheli North Wales 1937 or any help in finding his family

Kind Regards

Hefin Jones


Request 770.    Posted 13 Nov 2009

I’m looking for the name of the commanding officer at R.A.F. Station Skellingthorpe Lincs. 1945 re.Tiger Force.  I know he was a Canadian I hope you can help me on this request .

Allan Coller


Request 769.    Posted 13 Nov 2009

My name is Chris v.d.Linden from Holland and I seek pictures from 3 airmen who crashed in my village.  It was a Blenheim Mk.IV L9447   LA-Y  from 235 Sq and the crash date was; 27 June 1940.  The airmen ;  Pilot  P/O J.R. Cronan,  Obs  Sgt  A.O. Lancaster and  Wop/AG  Sgt P.L. Lloyd.

Thanks!


Request 768.    Posted 13 Nov 2009

William ( Billy) Walker

My name is Sharon Walker and I am looking for anyone who served with my uncle William Walker at Mildenhall, Bomber Command, 35 Squadron, Group 3 1947- 48. If anyone can help I would be very grateful. Thanks !


Request 767.    Posted 13 Nov 2009

I am trying to find some information about my aunt, Isobel Maguire, who served with the WRAF/RAF in the 1940’s 50’s and 60’s before dying whilst still on active service and being interred in an RAF cemetery in the UK. The only other information I have  about her is that she reached the rank of Chief Technician and spent a part of her career supervising the packing of parachutes.

If anyone can help my email address is jtpearson<AT>hotmail.com

 James Pearson


Request 766.    Posted 13 Nov 2009

RAF Hednesford  August 1952  entry Initial Recruit Training. Any Photographs Flight 4 Wing. G Sqdn .Russ Medlen.


Request 765.    Posted 8 Nov 2009

Hi, I am trying to find any information on the RAF AMES ( radar ) stations at RAF Helwan, Egypt and RAF Warren, Pembrokeshire.

My late dad was stationed at Helwan firstly on the AMES reserve pool (having just spent 3 yrs at 504 AMES Dingli Cliff, Malta 1940/43) then was transferred to 3 Signals Unit at RAF Helwan for 6 months.

After home leave he was at Buchrew House near Inverness but spent 6 months at RAF Warren in 1944.

Any information or photos of these RAF stations would be most welcome.  Thank you very much for your time.

Regards.

Bill.


Request 764.    Posted 8 Nov 2009

My name is Andrew McDermott and I'm trying to get hold of contacts and photos for my Grandad.

My grandad, Sydney Hollis (or Brummie) was an Aircrafts man for 695 Squadron RAF Horsham in the 1940's. I'm desperately trying to get copies of any squadron photos and get in contact with anybody that has any information on 695 squadron. He constantly talks about the 'good old days' and of a squadron photo that he is desperate to see again.

If anybody can help me in anyway it will be greatly appreciated.


Request 763.    Posted 17 Oct 2009

I'm am searching for Raymond W. Skipper, who was a member of the 2nd Tactical Air Force Communications Squadron in Germany, located in Bueckeburg until June, 26, 1952, when he was leaving to his House Establishment. His personal number in the Army was 1335988 (Public Record Office, Kew (Public Record Office, Document AIR 28/1188). If you have got any related information, for instance a photo of the squad in Bueckeburg, please contact me using the link above. Thanks in advance.

Raimund Dehmlow


Request 762.    Posted 17 Oct 2009

My uncle Pat Menzies DFM (a New Zealnder) was a rear gunner first in 57 squadron (June 1942 - Dec 1942) and then 83 squadron (Pathfinder Force) (April 1943 -Sept 1943.)

He flew in 45 missions.

I would be interested to contact anybody who might have known of him at that time or flew in those squadrons at that time.

Kevin Menzies


Request 761.    Posted 17 Oct 2009

I am looking for any information (also photo's) on:

1. Pilot Officer DonaId Noèl Robert ARMSTRONG - RAF - Australiër, 28 year, Obeserver/waarnemer - Stamnummer 400009.

2. Sgt. Arthur EVANS - RAF (V.R), 21 year, Wireless Operator - Air Gunner/marconist-schutter P1106238.

3. Flying Officer Renigald Maurice Peter JENKYNS - RAF (V.R.) 25 year, Pilot/piloot - stamnummer 76584.

4. Sgt. Edward Harry KING - RAF (V.R.) 23 year, Wireless Operator-Air Gunner/marconist-schutter - 918289

5. Flying Officer John MC ANALLY - RAF - 23 year- Pilot/piloot - stamnummer 62291.

They all died on July 8th 1941 in Genk (Belgium)

Thank you

Claes Guy

Chairman Heidekruisje


Request 760.    Posted 17 Oct 2009

My uncle, Sgt LH Abbott, w/t operator was attached to 104 squadron, then 205 group, ME command Kabrit. 16 May 1942 , his plane crash landed 66 miles east of Bengazi. Crew members were Sgt Baker, PO Gray, PO Sams, Sgt Ross D and Sgt Ross ( Aus).Any information on the crew members welcome. They were picked up by a New Zealand LRDG patrol.  


Request 759.    Posted 17 Oct 2009

 I am looking for any information of Flg. Off. Reginald William James, Who was a volunteer reserve of No.2 Group Communication Flight on number 182243 He died on 7th October 1944. Killed in action.

Who has information for me????

THANK YOU ALL ------ REMEMBER THEM


Request 758.    Posted 10 Oct 2009

I am looking for any information on Patrick Conlon who was a transport Driver in the RAF and was based I think in RAF Locking.

Please e-mail me on the link above

Thank you


Request 757.    Posted 10 Oct 2009

I know very little about my farther service life, I have a photo of him which I believe was take in Burma towards the end of WW2.

His name was George William Nicholas born 1919, If anyone has any information about him please make contact.

 

Click to enlarge

Regards

Chris Nicholas


Request 756.    Posted 10 Oct 2009

My Dad  Denis (Ossie) James Osborne AC2 2295020

Served from 11/02/46 in 2898Sqn RAF Regt who changed to 65 (Rifle) Sqn RAF Regt on 08/06/47 he was demobbed 19/12/47 I have a few photographs if they are of any use to folk looking for pictures of 65 RAF Regt.


Request 755.    Posted 4 Oct 2009

56 PTC Portici, Naples

My father was a MT driver/Mech at 56 ptc in 1945

I have a couple of Questions?

1. the exact location of the unit in Portici

2. is there any one still out there that may have known my Father "Tom (Polly) Perkins

 many thanks

 Chris Perkins


Request 754.    Posted 4 Oct 2009

I am hoping to find information on my Uncle, Flight Sergeant Lawrence Raymond Tunney. His Unit was Royal Canadian Air Force, 179 Squadron. He died on December 1942 in a Wellington Bomber.


Request 753    Posted 4 Oct 2009

My eldest brother, ex RNZAF, is writing the history of NG351 JE – E which was the Lancaster Bomber that our Father, F/O Stuart Ernest Franklin was the Radio Officer in, which crash landed after being shot down over Germany.  They managed to get as far as Belgium before the Pilot Flight Lt Geoffrey Forbes Bale, DFC, (a New Zealand, like my Father), had to put the aircraft down.  As they had a 4000lb primed bomb stuck in the bomb bay.  The aircraft went on to crash in a field in Grimbergen Belgium on 12 December 1944.  They crashed not far from the Grimbergen Airfield. All the crew survived and they were taken back to Britain that same day.  They were the lucky ones on that day.  They flew from Wratting Common and were part of 195 Squadron.

I am interested to know if anyone has any records of other crew members on that day, or knows anything of the crash itself, maybe as ground crew from the airfield that was under British control at that time.  Any information would be great.  My home email address is bryan.s@franklins.net.nz.  I am lucky enough to be going to Grimbergen in Belgium with my son during a visit in October this year, it will be an emotional moment when I stand on the crashsite.  Sadly the pilot on that eventful day was killed in a car accident in the early 70’s and my father passed away in 1992.

Regards  Jill Thompson (Franklin)


Request 752.    Posted 2 Oct 2009

My father met two RAF officers in Iraq in Feb 1937 and mentions them in a journal.  They were Harwood and Mahler, based at Hinaidi.  I don't have their first names.  Can anyone help please?

Ros Norman


Request 751.    Posted 2 Oct 2009

Would like to receive information on John Newton MILLER, J/18754, Pilot Officer, Mentioned in Despatches, Royal Canadian Air Force, 185 Squadron, died 20th March 1943, aged 22 years. The son of William H. and Ethel E. Miller, of Toronto, Canada. 


Request 750.    Posted 26 Sep 2009

As part of the Forgotten Frontline project (currently on display at Whitstable Museum), I am interested in obtaining copies of photographs and accounts relating to RAF Whitstable Radar Station during WWII to complete our research. 

Please email any assistance to me, Squadron Leader Simon Haseltine using the link above.


Request 749.    Posted 26 Sep 2009

Henry 'Harry' Wise Flt Sgt/ Acting W/O

Earlier this year I received a copy of my grandfather’s RAF service record. The RAF Historical Branch provided lot of very useful information and was kind enough to annotate Harry's record to explain the various abbreviations - they did a fantastic job

He transferred from the 4th Bn East Yorks Regt as a Sergeant to the RAF, as I understand did many soldiers, as part of a plan to improve station air defence capability. His records refer to a number of postings including 20 (P) AFU South Cerney and a spell at Kidlington (?)

He was later posted to the Middle East with 2788 Sqdn later 58 R Sqdn serving at Stn DEVERSOIR.

Any information about the stations in particular or the Regiment at the time will be gratefully received

Regards

Mike


Request 748.    Posted 26 Sep 2009

I just found a medal collection pertaining to Flt/Lt T. Harrison of 122 Wadham Gardens, Greenford, Middlesex, United Kingdom.  His service number is: 130209.  He was awarded the Malta G.C Anniversary Medal in 1992.

As I live in Malta and do historical researches work on ex-servicemen who served in Malta during World War Two, I was wondering whether you can kindly give me some historical background on this servcieman's service to include in my research and put it on display at my private museum.  I have a Second World War shelter and a small museum for visitors to enjoy. 

Any contribution would be greatly appreciated and I am also prepared to pay for any photos/documents and memorabilia/ephemera and information that might be available for sale. 

Anthony Zarb Dimech


Request 747.    Posted 26 Sep 2009

Hi, Im Heinz Johannsen Rendsburg Germany, I would like to get in touch with Vice Pres. Steve Mullis RAFA Branch Benalmadena 1357 . Can any one help? Thanks    Heinz


Request 746.    Posted 26 Sep 2009

Does anyone have any information of 353 Squadron my father A.E.Parsons served with in the  1939 1945 conflict.

I appreciate any information whatsoever


Request 745.    Posted 19 Sep 2009

Jurby, Isle of Man , May 1941

44 or 61 Squadron.

I have a photo of 15 men who attended the "No. 25 Bombing Leaders Course"  in Jurby.

My father was then Pilot Officer Richard Edward Davies (Dick) who was killed after a Berlin raid  (Lancasters) in September 1943 when he was with 61 Squadron.  He was a Flight Lieutenant then.

The names of the other men are:

SGT. Mercer, F/SGT. Simmons,  SGT. Taylor,  P/Os Woodward, Smith, SGT. Grandy, P/O Barrett,  SGT. Tindall, P/Os Fisher, Nicoll  (he is the only one with the pilot's 2 wings on his uniform)  F/O Wakefield, P/Os Servos, Davies, Rees and Grove

Please let me know if you know anyone.

Valerie Arends (nee Davies)


Request 744.    Posted 18 Sep 2009

I'm wondering if anyone could help me?

I'm trying to trace history of my Grandad 'Donald James Stephen Smith' 609 squadron'.

If anyone worked with him on ground crew or knew him, please get in touch.

Warm Regards

Emily Smith


Request 743.    Posted 18 Sep 2009

My late father was stationed at Alness sometime during the second world war and whilst there was involved in calibrating an astral navigation system. Can anyone help me with more details of the work my father was involved in and information of whether or not anything still survives of this at Alness.

many thanks

Dorothy Stables


Request 742.    Posted 18 Sep 2009

My Father-in-Law was in 35 Squadron from 1944 and went on the 'Good Will Tour' of the USA.

We would love to contact anyone who from 35 Squadron from that time. We have Photo's and news paper clippings from the Good Will Tour, would be great to share them with anyone who was in 35 Squadron!

My Father in Law is Colin Earnshaw or nickname 'Barny', previous to 35 Squadron he was 31 Squadron.

Cheers

Ton


Request 741.    Posted 12 Sep 2009

I have been searching for photographs of the old RAF stations at Padgate, Nr Warrington and Kirkham Nr Blackpool.

If anyone can assist I would be very grateful.

Jack Clegg


Request 740.    Posted 5 Sep 2009

We are looking for information on my husband's great uncle Frank James Robinson who flew Wellingtons with 37 Squadron from early August 1940 to July 1941. He then became a test pilot with the A&AEE in November 1941 and was killed on active service on 10 September 1943.

If anyone has any pictures/information on him we would be very grateful. Please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Our address is 1 Malthouse Close, Lenham, Maidstone, Kent. ME17 2LQ or e-mail through the link above.

Thank you.


Request 739.    Posted 5 Sep 2009

I am looking for anyone who knew an Airman, by the name of Jack Hudson,  nickname HUD,  was stationed in Lossiemouth, Scotland around 1971.  Used to hang out in the 2 red shoes in Elgin.    Any info would be great,   Thanks so much 

Lynn


Request 738.    Posted 5 Sep 2009

Would anyone know which US army unit/s were stationed in Seaton Sluice, Northumberland during 1942. I am searching for the family of an American Serviceman by the name of Peter Georgeson who was moved to Birmingham in 1943 

Many thanks

Jenn-mc


Request 737.    Posted 5 Sep 2009

Can anyone put me in touch with any of the relatives of the crew of:

Whitley V, T4159 GE-J of No 58 Sqn from Linton-on-Ouse on a raid to Mannheim on 23 Dec 1940.

The aircraft is believed to have come down in the sea off Torbay, but why is not known.

The full crew was: -

Sgt S V Smith

Sgt K L Watson

Sgt A Gowing-Scopes

**Sgt J Rowlands

Sgt J W Chamberlain

** My Uncle Wireless Air Gunner  - Volunteer Reserve, originally from Redcar Yorks

Thanks

David Rowlands


Request 736.    Posted 29 Aug 2009

I’m looking for any information on my Grandad, Walter Smith – in 108 Squadron in Malta in 1943.

I believe he may have been a gunner in a Beaufighter V1.

If anyone knew him or has info/pics that would be fantastic.


Request 735.    Posted 22 Aug 2009

Very helpful site, with very interesting content. Now let’s see whether it can assist in information on 659 Sqdn (1943 - 1947). My father, Kenneth Lionel Mullis was attached to the Sqdn as a driver and signals operator. Yes, he was a "pongo". I saw sense and joined RAF (71 - 78. If any can remember him or give any accurate details on the Sqdns action etc I would be most grateful. Already have loads of photos from that time, mostly in India but also of a group taken in Hammoor, Germany 8th May 1945. Please feel free to get in touch.

Mr Steve Mullis
Branch Vice-President
Branch Conference Delegate
RAFA Benalmadena Branch 1357
Tel 00 34 966 759 529


Request 734.    Posted 22 Aug 2009

Does any one who was stationed at RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire in 1953, have any photos or information on the  markings carried by the B-50’s of the 43 Bomb Wing, which deployed there from March to June of that year.  I would be very grateful for any possible help please. 

Robbie Robinson.


Request 733.    Posted 22 Aug 2009

My family has a silver dish believed to be from Thornaby Aerodrome. It bears the inscription -

To Officers 608 Squadron from

PDOV Dec 1941

Has anyone any idea what PDOV refers to?


Request 732.    Posted 16 Aug 2009

Would like to know if anyone is able to provide a detailed history of 651 AOP Squadron, a combined unit of RAF and Royal Artillery personnel.


Request 731.    Posted 6 Aug 2009

1 Army Aviation Squadron was formed out of the remnants of 659 Air OP Flight which was disbanded in Lahore and what happens to 659 Squadron is not known. If any one can give me the history of the squadron from 1947 till to date including email contact of the Squadron or any contact details, any help in this regard will be of great help in making History and Affiliations of the outfits.
 
Regards, Major AFAQ


Request 730.    Posted 6 Aug 2009

Does anyone have any information about the following two 38 Group Pilots : RAF 296 Squadron : based at Earls Colne Airfield : March 1945 : Operation Varsity.

RAF 296 Squadron Leader, Wing Commander T.C. Musgrave

RAF 296 Flight Lt. M. Jackson

Both took part in Operation Varsity : Musgrave was first-up in the serial lift followed by Jackson who rolled 1 1/2 minutes behind.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.  Thank you.


Request 729.    Posted 6 Aug 2009

I have found in my late mother's keepsakes a wartime Xmas greetings card, dated 25/11/43 , with message "Xmas Greetings from the Royal Air Force Middle East 1943",from:

1723618 AC/1 CHANDLER EK

HQ 219 GROUP

RAF MEF   (subject to transcription errors)

Any help would be very welcome in researching the wartime history of this airman.


Request 728.    Posted 6 Aug 2009

I am looking for information or anyone with knowledge of  Flight Sergeant James ANDERSON buried in Cherbourg Old Communal Cemetery France. His service number was 907048 attached to No 21 Sqdn Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, who died 5th Feb 1944. Believed to be the pilot of a De Havilland Mosquito. Trained in Canada.


Request 727.    Posted 1 Aug 2009

Has anybody a recollection of a Flt Lt Doug Trick DFC RCAF (a Navigator) who flew from RAF Waterbeach with 514 Squadron in 1944.  Any info regarding the other members of his crew who were F/L Harry Prager,  F/O AJH Ames (RCAF), F/L MC Smith (RCAF),F/L JW Hoffman, Sgt WB Watt (RCAF) and F/O AM Sauve would also be appreciated.

Rob Brock


Request 726.    Posted 1 Aug 2009

I am looking for anyone who knew my father – LAC Leslie Powell from Shropshire. He served in RAF Forres and RAF Jodhpur during WWII.  Don’t know much more, but would be grateful for any information.

Jayne McDermott


Request 725.    Posted 1 Aug 2009

I'm looking for further Information regarding the forced landing of a Typhoon IB on December 24, 1944 in the Village Deurne, the Netherlands.

Pilot S/Ldr J.H.Deall - 266 Sqdn.

Regards,

Richard Schoutissen


Request 724.    Posted 1 Aug 2009

Flying Officer John A Cruikshank was awarded the VC following an attack on a German Submarine on the 17th July 1944. He was piloting a PBY Catalina.

I am trying to find out the names of all the crew who were with him on that flight and to ascertain if any are still living.

Mike Nichols


Request 723.    Posted 1 Aug 2009

Does anyone have any memories of my father F/O Denys H Rushworth with 403 Repair and Salvage Unit from 1st May 1943 until 19th November 1944 when he became F/Lt and Adjutant to G/C P G Jameson, CO of 122 Wing 2nd TAF near Brussels?  He held this post till his compassionate release on 23rd July 1945.

Many thanks,

Regards,

Martin Rushworth


 

Request 722.    Posted 26 Jul 2009

I am looking for information as to the operation of Blenheims of 18 Squadron on 15th August, 1940. My father, Sergeant Pilot Harold E. Tyldesley and his two crew members were all posted as missing, believed shot down over the English Channel. Their aircraft was T1882. Information from any other surviving crew from that operation would be gratefully received.


Request 721.    Posted 25 Jul 2009

I am trying to trace possible relative named Greenway, an American airman based on Ashbourne airfield around 1944, any information would be welcome.


Request 720.    Posted 25 Jul 2009

Removed due to failure of e-mail address


Request 719.    Posted 25 Jul 2009

I should like to know if someone could help me to find W/O Franck “Jock”  Roberts, service  number 1349787, RAF 341 squadron, on 30 March 1930 caught by explosions of previous aircraft bombs during an attack on a train at Rijssen, the Netherlands and brought down in Markelo near “de Luchte”.

He was hidden at my father’s farm. He was injured at his head and taken back by a Canadian Armoured car or Bren Carrier on April 6 1945.

I shall be very grateful if he or his relatives will contact me.

Gerry Jansen-Schottink


Request 718.    Posted 21 Jul 2009

My Father tells me that his Uncle was in the Dambuster Squadron 617 as a navigator. His name was Eric Pimm but I have not found any record of him on the website. I know he flew Lancasters during the war and that he wasn't part of the flight who carried out the operation on the dam's. Can any one help with any information about him? Thanks.


Request 717.    Posted 17 Jul 2009

I am looking for information about a Polish airman who served in the 301 squadron. His name was JOSEF WCISLO born on  the 22nd of April 1913. He died in Mauthausen on the 21st of September 1944.

I think he was my mother’s brother. 

I try to reconstruct my family on my mother’s site.

WW2 scattered them all over Europe.

Thanks!


Request 716.    Posted 17 Jul 2009

My Dad who sadly passed away some ten years ago was a flight engineer who served with 296 squadron as air crew.

His name was Ron Norman Stevens (Service Number 1817728), and whilst I have his engineer notes for both the Liberator and Halifax aircraft (he was also on Stirling's), his Log book was sent to my late brother, a commercial pilot in Australia, so I no longer have a record of his flights or aircraft No.

However, I recall vividly the log book entries for operation VARSITY, both the training and actual operation written in red ink. Unfortunately, I don't know what aircraft he was in or who the other crew members were , although I think they were all Canadian. I also recall that his tug was towing a glider carrying a field ambulance, if this is true it would have been in a group of gliders with chalk numbers between 176 and 182 (ref book "Wot No Engines").

Whilst Dad talked about the squadron with great affection and pride, I haven't got a real coherent story about where he was stationed or the people he knew? Most of all I haven't got any pictures!

Any help would be most appreciated.

Regards Mark Stevens.


Request 715.    Posted 17 Jul 2009

My name is Frank Tarr, only son of Charles Francis Tarr, born March 19th 1914. He was an RAF air gunner in WW2  and his rank was Sergeant. He was posted to the RCAF  serving in Squadron 432, or" Leaside", based at Skipton-on-Swale and East Moor (when 432 came into existence) His service number is 1068226  He and his crew members failed to return from bombing Brunswick on January 14, 1944.

I am endeavouring to put together the life of this wonderful man whom I never met. He died prior to my birth, and I have no knowledge of him. I have commenced dialogue with  Canadian born son of a deceased member of his Squadron whose father left an impression deeply etched in his son to the point that he has devoted his life to his Dad's  Air Force career, and associated with restoring Lancaster bombers etc. A delightfully helpful chap.

I need contact with any whose Dad served in Squadron 432 or elsewhere in the RAF, who have a record or history of that organization, and possibly may have known and made mention of my Dad. Any who may have served with, or in some way became an associate or a friend, that I can communicate with might fulfil my life's dream of knowing my Dad. I'm aware that it is unlikely to expect any one yet living who may have associated with my Dad, but the possibility does exist, that someone lives, or has left a record of their service, and may even possess a diary or photo, a  letter, anything at all. It would mean a great to me. I particularly want to unravel a mystery behind his death, that is the manner by which his Lancaster was shot down, and where precisely he crashed. Was it a direct impact, or an attempted crash landing, and if it is on land or water. He was too deep inland to be an ocean crash, but some indication of water exists. Much mystery.

I have provided these details in the hope that your organisation is an appropriate forum for my search. If it is so, I will apply for membership to your organisation.

Thanking you in anticipation,

Yours truly,

Frank Tarr


Request 714.    Posted 17 Jul 2009

Re Polish Air Force Flying Training school at Perton,  The Wergs,  Staffs 

during early part of WW2.Does anyone know of Count Antoni            

who was a friend of our family in Tettenhall Wood.  He brought me gifts as a small child.  Any info would be valuable,  Christine Dalton


Request 713.    Posted 3 Jul 2009

I’m looking for anyone in the RAF 93 Squadron who may have served with John Andrew (Bud) Allen while in Egypt or Italy during 1944 and 1945.  Bud was shot down on 12 April 45.  I am his nephew and am trying to put together a family scrap book.  I am missing the last month or so of his duty with the RAF 93.  Any details would be greatly appreciated.

Best regards

Bill Allen, 2501 Temple Avenue, Unit 318, Signal Hill, CA 90755-4035

(310) 488-6900


Request 712.    Posted 3 Jul 2009

I am trying to get information on members of 1435 Squadron RAF which was based in Malta during the invasion of Sicily, July 1943, in particular any names of pilots and ground crew, a number of pilots were New Zealanders, one of which was my brother who was posted missing on July 10 1943 on the first day of the invasion, he was Flt Lt M J Rowland, if anyone has knowledge of the squadron I would appreciate the details................David G Rowland.


Request 711.    Posted 3 Jul 2009

Id like to hear from anyone who can help me find any info of my grandfather James Donohue 3010504 Air gunner with 149 Sqdn. He was at RAF Methwold between from March 1945. He did training at 11 AGS Andreas Isle of Man may 44 to June 44. Then 84 Operational Training Unit Desborough from Aug 44 to Oct 44. Then 1668 Heavy Conversion Unit Jan 45 to Feb 45


Request 710.    Posted 27 Jun 2009

My name is Pierre van Dalen and I am trying to find out what happened to the crew of LM 718 which crashed near Deurne (|The Netherlands) on September 23rd 1944.

So if anyone knows something about H. W. Horsley, C. Cawthorne. John C Webber, J.P Wheeler, G Twyneham, H.W. Jennings of R T Hoskisson please feel free to contact me.


Request 709.    Posted 27 Jun 2009

 

The Light Blue Anthology of Ripping Yarns

Nearly everyone who has ever flown, serviced or controlled one of Her Majesty’s aircraft has an amusing or enlightening experience (their own or someone else’s) worthy of a wider audience. Some may have appeared in print before but many still lurk in Squadron Line Books, only emerge when a pop or two has been enjoyed or have hitherto been kept under wraps to better protect the author’s continued safety or promotion prospects!

We now aim to capitalise on this rich, and mostly untapped, mine of stories in support of that worthiest of causes, Help for Heroes, by compiling a book of yarns, anecdotes, cautionary tales and aviation howlers for subsequent publication. These will preferably be attributable but anonymity will be respected if requested.  Help for Heroes fully supports this venture, quote; “Help for Heroes endorses the project to publish a book of flying anecdotes, all proceeds of which will be gratefully received by the charity.” It is listed as an event on their website and all proceeds will go to H4H.

The project is the brain-child of Chris Long who has “volunteered” Dim Jones and Ian Cowie to collate and edit the anthology. So raid your memory banks and line books, get to the keyboard, provoke some belly laughs, wry grins, hoots of derision or red faces and provide support for people who really need and deserve it. Finally, the e-mail addresses to which we hope you will send your contributions (by 14th August 2009) are:

iananddebbie@o2.co.uk

dimjones@btopenworld.com

chris.long@orange.fr


Request 708.    Posted 27 Jun 2009

I am trying to find out any information about my father’s involvement when he was in the RAF.  He has passed away and I have hardly any information about him.  His name was Maurice Richard Elliott, born in 1928 in Yorkshire.  He served as a RAF Gunner, 51 Field Squadron, 6 Wing MT in Celle Germany in 1948-49.  He was also in Berlin at the Churchill Barracks.

If anyone has any information or knew him, it would be greatly appreciated.

Many thanks,

Annette Tween

QUEENSLAND

AUSTRALIA


Request 707.    Posted 14 Jun 2009

Re: LAC Brinley William Cox [Deceased] / RAF Service Number - 1312729 (WWII)

I am attempting to track down details pertaining to my late-father’s RAF ‘Record of Service’ (ROS) as part of my genealogy interest.

According to his ROS from the Royal Air Force, my late-father; Leading Aircraftsman Brinley William Cox, was admitted via SSQ RAF Honington to C.R.S (Casualty Receiving Station) St. Mary’s House, Thetford on 27 April 1943 until his discharge four days later on 31 April 1943. This followed a period of hospitalization @ the RAF General Hospital in Ely between 17.04.43 and 27.04.43. Prior to 17.04.43 my late-father was at RAF Kirkham in Preston at the Technical Training Centre.

I am seeking any information available regarding St. Mary’s House in Bury Road, Thetford as a Casualty Receiving Station as part of my current research strand to ascertain my late-father injuries. The Archivist at the Norfolk Record Office in Norwich has confirmed St. Mary’s House was a CRS but has no specific details. Any suggestions you could offer as to where I should look next would be gratefully received!

Further, I would also appreciate contact with anyone who knew my father personally or who has come across his name in their own military research.

Thank you. I am very grateful for any assistance you are able to offer.

Yours truly

Melvin Charles Cox BA (Hons), PGCE (FE), MA


Request 706.    Posted 14 Jun 2009

I am wondering if anyone can help me I am trying to find pictures of Dingli radar station on Malta 1940/1943 as my dad was there during this time and i believe it was an AMES triangulation radar system that was in use. also i am looking for any info or pictures of the Drem chain home radar station near Dunbar as my dad was there after being in Malta.

Any help would be much appreciated.

regards.

Bill Crawford.


Request 705.    Posted 13 Jun 2009

I was stationed at RAF Aldergrove between 1952-1955 attached to 63 Group Communications flight. I believe the HQ was Edenmore on the outskirts of Belfast and not the Station Command, which from memory was Costal Command.  I was just trying to do some history on what happened to the flight and where the aircraft were dispersed to 2 Ansons. Thank you

Brian Longworth


Request 704.    Posted 13 Jun 2009

I wonder if anyone can help me? I am trying to find out as much information as possible regarding P/O Jacobus Adrianus IJsselstein of the Dutch 320 B Sqd.

From my research so far I have established he was killed when his plane (a Mitchell II FR182) collided with another bomber (Mitchell II FR150) over Horsham, Sussex on the 8th of June 1944.

I believe the Bombers were carrying leaflets to be dropped over France.

I would appreciate any further information anyone may have regarding this gentlemen or indeed the incident in question.

Kind regards,

Stephen.


Request 703.    Posted 7 Jun 2009

I wonder if you can help me, I am trying to get some information on a Charles or Jock Aitkin/Aikin/Aiken, not sure of the correct spelling. He was based at Castle Archdale in 1951.

Any information would be much appreciated, if you cannot help could you assist me with another website or contact that could.

Regards

John Morgan


Request 702.    Posted 5 Jun 2009

I am trying to research the above hospital so that I can write a short article about it use during the Second World War and how it assisted the RAF and the local community.

I was wondering if you would be able to assist me with any information or images of the hospital during this period. I have maps and some basic information about when the hospital was used by the RAF and some information regarding the development of plastic surgery, but very little about numbers of patients and its daily workings.

Yours truly,

Stewart James

Editor


Request 701.    Posted 5 Jun 2009

On a MTLRU crest are the words "Quod Fregistis Nosmet Resicimus" anyone know what it means?

Phil Blank


Request 700.    Posted 31 May 2009

I found a photograph of my twin brother and myself in my late father's effects. His name was Robert William BROOKES and he served in the Royal Air Force in the 2nd World war - I believe in maintenance units in North Africa and Italy. On the reverse of the photograph is a partial address as follows.

        1255598 LAC HAUX.......

        608 Sqdn R A.....

        C.M.F.

      

        3 Hartland Close

        Edgeware

        Middlesex.

Does anybody know who this person might be or how I may be able to contact them or their heirs- if they are still around?

Many thanks.


Request 699.    Posted 31 May 2009

Roy Ullyett, the cartoonist, served in Scotland with the RAF Volunteer Reserve 1944 and would like more info about what he was actually doing there!  any assistance appreciated


Request 698.    Posted 31 May 2009

my father served as a pilot  from 1931- 1935 and flew many hours a total

of  936 hours     in many different aircraft including  Vickers Virginia and Westland wapiti  he was in Iraq and Egypt and started in no 7 (B) squadron from Worthy Down he was also in 99 (B) squadron in 1936 also No149(B) he gained the Air Force Cross I believe  but  I don't know what for, if anybody knew my dad or would like to contact me I still have all his log books and many photos of aircraft and aerial photos.  He was George Frederick Heayes and was a squadron leader when he left the forces as was my brother John Heayes who was a photographer and sadly died at a young age of 46 if any body knew my dad or brother please contact me using the link above.  Thank You.


Request 697.    Posted 31 May 2009

I am looking for anyone who knew Tony Medina stationed at USAF Bruntingthorpe in 1961. I have been told he was either Hawaiian or Puerto Rican but have no more information than that!

Thanks, Emma


Request 696.    Posted 26 May 2009

We are looking for the family of Warrant Officer Nav./W.Op. DALY, WILLIAM PATRICK, 151 Sqn.  The village where he died would make him a tribute.
He died on 17 May 1943 in Tramain Brittany.

Son of Patrick and Rose Elizabeth Daly; husband of Janet Elizabeth Daly, of Winchmore Hill, Middlesex..

He was accompanied by Wing Commander Pilot. IVINS, DONALD VERNON.


Request 695.    Posted 23 May 2009

Hi, I'm looking for info and hopefully a photo of Pilot Officer (wireless operator) J W Champion, 53774, 75 Sqdn. Died 4 November 1943. 

He is buried in Frederikshavn Cemetery in Denmark.

Thank you.


Request 694.    Posted 8 May 2009

I am trying to find a photo pf Pilot Officer John Pattison, who flew Spitfires with Nos. 92 and 266 Squadron during the Battle of Britain.  Any idea where I might find one?

Regards,

Patrick Gariepy

Eugene, Oregon, USA


Request 693.    Posted 8 May 2009

JOHN OR JACK DUFFY 51 Sqd 1942

I am searching for a Jack or John Duffy stationed in India in 1942 sometime (details very scarce).  I have a photo with a sign saying (china boys) 51 squad 1942 with aircraft either side of the squad.


Request 692.    Posted 2 May 2009

I'm researching my family history and am looking for information about Flying Officer Collyn Warwick Warren, RAFVR, who died in active service on 31 July 1944, aged 21. Has anybody got any photographs or memories they would like to share with me?

Before who was killed on active service in 12 OTU in Edgehill on 31 July 1944. I've now found out that he received his flying training in the No. 1 British Flying Training School in Terrell, Texas, where he was posted from 1 January 1943 until approx November 1943. does anybody remember him?

Doris Merkl-Davies


Request 691.    Posted 2 May 2009

Just recently my father ex Black Watch passed away at Erskine Hospital in Bishopton. For many years he was heavily involved in Militaria Collecting. One of the things handed to me was a Shield Plaque of 101 SQN RAF and at the top there is a small brass plate with the following details on it.

1826997

F/Sgt James McCafferty

1944.

I was wondering of where i could find out more information on the above mentioned Airman or indeed if anyone on your website that may have known him in that Squadron back in those days.

Kind Regards

L/Cpl Alan MacLennan

5th Bn The Royal Regiment of Scotland

ACIO Greenock


Request 690.    Posted 24 Apr 2009

I am trying to find out about my grandfather.   His name was Ian (surname unknown) and he was Scottish. Based at RAF Kirmington during 1945, certainly around December 1945 when he met my grandmother, Marjorie Elizabeth Hair.

Not much to go on, but maybe someone recollects something?


Request 689.    Posted 24 Apr 2009

Hi, a very interesting site and one that I will probably spend hours browsing.

I am ex 576557 Sgt. Pilot Frederic Jaques - better known as Deric Jaques.  Joined RAF in August 39 as an Aircraft Apprentice Instrument Maker and trained at Cranwell and Halton.  Accepted for aircrew in November '41 and went to US for training.  I noticed a message from so@bigfoot.com

  posted in 2002, to which I have replied.  He is asking for information on RAF training at the US Naval Air Grosse Ile where I trained on Stearman and then went to USNAS Pensacola where I trained on Catalina flying boats.  On my last training flight, a night flight, my instructor flew us into the beach and three were killed .  He and I survived and I spent 21 months in hospital in the Bethesda Naval Hospital at Washington. DC.  I was medically discharged and now live in Novi, Michigan, USA.

I would be delighted to contact any of the 40th Entry Instrument Makers who trained with me at Cranwell and Halton.  Probably not many around these days as I am 86.

Frederic A. Jaques.


Request 688.    Posted 24 Apr 2009

I am looking for any information about my Great Uncle Ted Adams who piloted Lancasters out of RAF Witchford between August and December 1944, completing 31 missions. He was only 23 when he died of injuries sustained when his Liberator crashed on take off in India the following year. Does anyone have any memories of Ted as a pilot and person?


Request 687.    Posted 11 Apr 2009

THE PEMBROKIANS

I am researching one of our alumni Wing Commander T P K (Tommy) Scade who was with 46 Squadron during WW2 and Squadron Leader in 1943. Does anybody have any information on Tommy, or, perchance a period photograph? Tommy was born, brought up and spent, to my reckoning, all but the war years in Kenya.

Oliver Keeble


Request 686.    Posted 3 Apr 2009

Had a few months at RAF Fassberg, some at Wunstorf, some at Celle airfield, I was with 11Th Air Formation Signals, 139 Line Troop, Royal Signals.

Whilst at Fassberg I remember this RAF Regiment officer whom I remember being told at the time had once been a German forces officer, smart looking guy, can remember him to this day in his khaki uniform with hard air force blue peak cap, always thought he was the smartest looking guy on the base, [ kept these thoughts to myself though ] he was a tall guy, a six footer.

At one Berlin Air Lift reunion, first one of its kind, at the Officers Club, London, an ex RAF Regiment guy I got talking to and recalling this officer told me the officer in question was named either, Shultz or Schuman, he changed his name from one to the other, which way round I cant remember, think it was to Flt Lt Shuman, wonder if anyone knows what happened to him?

Thanks, Dennis Pell, Ex Sgmn, 19104042, now pushing 81years


Request 685.    Posted 2 Apr 2009

My father is 91 this year. Served RAF during WW2. Name is Richard A (Dick) Gleeson. Any info or history appreciated. Tim Gleeson


Request 684.    Posted 2 Apr 2009

Flt Lt Bryan Edward Lee-Cooper, 4180577.  My father served from 1956 to 1976. He was a navigator on Canberras, 249 Sqn, and later on Vulcans, 35Sqn. He was stationed at RAF Coningsby, Cottesmore, Lindholme, Akrotiri & Brampton, amongst others. His career ended at RAF Wytton in 1976, when he died suddenly at the age of 38, leaving two children, Alison & Peter. His name is recorded on the Armed Forces National Memorial. If you remember my father and have some photos of him, I would love to hear from you


Request 683.    Posted 2 Apr 2009

Seeking any information about Flt Sgt Geoffrey Dennis Cooke1578870 from Birmingham who was part of 100sqn that became part of 625 Sqn in 1943.

Help gratefully received.

Geoff Cooke (Son)


Request 682.    Posted 2 Apr 2009

Looking for information on my Grandfather Frank Lawson Smart born Apr./1901 in Kirriemuir, Angus Scotland. Lived in Brechin however. Fought in World War 2 stationed in Blackpool. Responsible for the barrage balloons. Muster roll of 1941 shows him  as an Instructor for the R.A.F. They would of utilized his skilled background but necessarily would not have had to join. This is all I know of him unfortunately. I am guessing he would of been a civilian instructor. I have nobody else to ask as my Mum would be next of kin however she is ill. Anyone with any information would be greatly appreciated as I have been searching for 2 yrs without success. The R.A.F. in Sleaford, Lincolnshire has no record of him unfortunately. Any bit of information would be appreciated.

Thank you

All the best

Gail Watson

Ontario, Canada

 


Request 681.    Posted 27 Mar 2009

Looking for information on Squadron Ldr (?act) Paddy Duncan AFC ,DFC.  Killed in Harvard of CFS out of Hullavington on 27/9/48?

Also served with 128 flying from Wyton in 44/45. Info gratefully received. Chris Sharman


Request 680.    Posted 27 Mar 2009

Trying to find information about John Harry Adams who was known as Jack. He came from Loughborough in Leicestershire and is believed to have been shot down either over the North Sea or Germany during WW2. It is thought that he was RAFVR like his brother Bernard whose plane came down in the Mediterranean  in 1943.

Thank you


Request 679.    Posted 27 Mar 2009

I am researching RAF Westcott which was home to 11 OTU flying Wellington Bombers. I am particular interested in any photographs of the RAF station during World War 2.

I am creating a RAF Westcott Airfield Scenery Add-On for Microsoft FSX and I am looking for any old photographs of the RAF Station at Westcott Bucks during World War 2 paticularly any aerial photographs. However, any information would be gratefully excepted.

Kind Regards,

Paul Harrison


Request 678.    Posted 27 Mar 2009

I would be grateful for any information on Flt. Sgt. Dennis Bensted  Smith,   RAFVR 500 Squadron,  Service No. 778472,  shot down and  killed over Bay of Biscay in Sept. 1942.His squadron was with Coastal Command.

He was born in South Africa and was in the Rhodesian Air Force before being assigned to 500 Squadron.


Request 677.    Posted 27 Mar 2009

I am searching for Edward (Ted) Hiscock who did his National Service in the RAF in Singapore around 1945 – 1947. He was good friends with another RAF National Serviceman called Dick Sheppard who went on to become a Minister of Religion when he left the RAF.

Hiscock’s last known address was Orpington, Kent, UK. The Moore family in Singapore used to entertain them from time to time, specifically Leonie Moore and her daughter Molly Moore. A lady by the name of Dot Woodford was also a friend.

Any information no matter how slim through the link above will be hugely appreciated.

Many thanks

Glynis Hezakiah


Request 676.    Posted 27 Mar 2009

W/O FRANK ROBERTS 1349787, 341 (Free French) Sqn.

On the 30th.March 1945 this Spitfire pilot crashed at Rijason, Holland.

His aircraft, a Mk.XV1 number TB750 had been brought down by the debris caused by the previous aircraft's attack on a train.  W/O Roberts was taken to a safe house by a farmer Mr.JH Schottink and a wound attended to by a Dutch doctor. He was repatriated by Canadian troops on the 8th.April 1945.

Mr.Schottink's daughter who is a friend of mine and her family have always wondered what happened to "their pilot" and would be grateful for any information your members can give. We know that he served in the RAF as, we believe, a Warrant Officer until he retired in 1960.


Request 675.    Posted 21 Mar 2009

DOES ANYONE OUT THERE REMEMBER AN RAF BOMBER CRASH AROUND 1942-3 IN FIELDS NEAR ELY CAMBS.

I HAVE POSTED A NOTE BEFORE 219 ABOUT MY FATHER BUT TO NO AVAIL.  MY FATHER WAS COMING BACK FROM A BOMBING RAID AND FLYING ON ONE ENGINE HE WAS WITH 149 SQUADRON AT MILDENHALL AND HIS NAME WAS FLT SGT.

ALBERT THOMAS DAVIES.  AFTER MANY MONTHS IN HOSPITAL HE WAS THEN BASED AT LINDHOLME.

THANK YOU VERY MUCH

CHRIS JONES {DAUGHTER}


Request 674.    Posted 21 Mar 2009

I am researching the life of my uncle Frank Garbas RCAF R 103201. He was a front gunner killed on the Dams Raid in Bill Astell's AJ-B. I am looking for the  last name of a WAAF whose first name was Muriel who worked in the map room at Scampton in 1943. Muriel died in 2000, and I have lost contact with her sister Pauline Home of 74 Rosliston Rd. South, Burton on Trent.  Muriel's married sirname was Leach and she was a volunteer at the RAF Association at Cheltenham. If anyone remembers Muriel or the whereabouts of her sister, could you please contact the web master.  Any other information about the WAAFs or groundcrew at Scampton would also be appreciated.

I am also looking for information and pictures of RAF Brighton, No. 3 Personnel Reception Centre where Frank was received in July 1942.

Frank was also stationed at Stormy Down, 1654 HCU-Wigsley, N0.9 Sqdn. Waddington,  No. 57 Sqdn. Scampton before moving over to RAF 617Sqdn. Scampton.

I am looking for information on his first pilot Sgt. Max Stephenson 1088249 who was lost on operations with No. 9 Sqdn. on January 8, 1943 while flying with another crew on an op to Duisburg. Max was from Bishop Auckland, County Durham.

No information is too small. Thank you.

Paul Morley: Hamilton, Canada


Request 673.    Posted 20 Mar 2009

I’m looking for information about the following crew who was lost on 27/04/44.

141 Sqdn

Serrate Patrol (ops to Friedrichshafen)

De Havilland Mosquito - DZ-656 -  TW-J

S/L Lovell Victor C   DFC pilot 85649

W/O Lilley Robert   DFC navigator 801556

Crew buried at the Heverlee War Cemetery in Belgium

Greetings

Alain Rosseels


Request 672.    Posted 20 Mar 2009

I am an ex RAF Police dog handler from Ceylon days and researching the many stations1939/59 in Ceylon, Car Nicobar and Kelia. Any help i.e. pictures and information please.

Jeff Robinson


Request 671.    Posted 20 Mar 2009

I am looking to talk to anyone who was stationed at RAF Little Rissington from 1942 -1944, lived in Stowe in the Wold during 1942-1944, or a historian for RAF Little Rissington/Stowe in the Wold.

Looking for information relating to my American grandfather Charles Paul Newton Jr, (Nickname possibly Chuck).  I believe he was a member of the British Civilian Technical Corps, was listed as a radio technician, and I believe he taught classes at No 6 Radio School at Bolton Technical College in Bolton, Lancashire for the RAF sometime in 1942.   He lived on Settle Street in Great Lever, Bolton during that time.  I also believe he was stationed at RAF Rissington sometime later in 1942/possibly 1943, because my grandmother remembers visiting Charles in the village of Stowe in the Wold, Gloucestershire in 1942/1943.   If he was stationed at RAF Rissington, then he could have possibly served under the No 1523 Beam Approach Training Flt, the No 6 (Pilots) Advanced Flying Unit, or possibly the No 8 Maintenance Unit.   I am hoping to talk to anyone who was stationed at RAF Rissington from 1942 -1944.    I believe he may have also moved on and served near the city of Bath, England in either later 1943 or sometime in 1944.   My grandmother has said that Charles (Chuck) resembled Glenn Ford and wore glasses.  He was from Boston. Massachusetts, and entered the war possibly via Texas, and then on to Canada in either late 1941 or early 1942.   He married my grandmother Joan Taylor on August 1st 1942, and they divorced after the war ended.  

A friend of the family believes there is a possibility that Charles my have been involved in some sort of secret operations, but I have no proof to back this up.   I have contacted the British Ministry of Defence, and they have no record of a Charles Paul Newton in the British Civilian Technical Corps, but I believe the public records they have are far from complete.  Finally,  I believe he may have possibly left England at the end of 1944 via Liverpool, possibly on the Mauretania II.

Any information would be greatly appreciated! 

thank you,

Reece J Newton  (British Citizen now living in the USA)


Request 670.    Posted 20 Mar 2009

Can anybody tell me about a john Patrick Donovan I believe he was a leading aircraftman and corporal he did survive the ww2 but passed away 1964 he was a good musican also served abroad and I believe he was a engineer during his time in the RAF


Request 669.    Posted 20 Mar 2009

I have aquired a hand written book of poems from a LEONARD THOMAS TAYLOR. Each poem is hand signed in Gambia, Africa around 1941-1942 along with pencil drawings.

All the poems are on paper with the Royal seal at the top.

The first page is a pencil drawing for the proposed Squadron Crest for the General Reconnaisannce Squadron, Royal Air Force and it has the number 200 on each side. It also has the words "IN STATU PARENTIS" below. It has a picture of a flying horse flying over a ship in the crest. Underneath this has the typing " The winning idea for the design of the crest in the competition is above. Then some further writing and the last words show " In the state of the parent - Guardian.

If anyone knows about of the person above please contact me using the link above as I want these returned to the family in which they once belonged.


Request 668.    Posted 14 Mar 2009

Hi, I hope that someone can help me. My father was a Sergeant in the RAF stationed in Jever, Germany in the late 1950s early 1960s. What I am looking for I s the married quarters that were off the base .I remember that there was farm land around the area and there was a grass area where we played. The houses were built in a square and I remember the school bus coming to collect the kids for school in this square.  I also remember there was a stream with a little wooden bridge over it. Can anyone help me with this area and any names of the streets around it.  I would be must grateful. C. Roberts.


Request 667.    Posted 14 Mar 2009

On the 27th August 1943 a Halifax Mk V bomber aircraft crashed here at Langtree.  All 7 crew were killed, but their bodies were recovered at the time and they were all buried accordingly.  The local community has finally decided to erect a memorial to them and that will be done on the 27th August this year.

We are trying to trace any living members of the crew’s extended families, and 2 of the crew were Australian. 

No 1663 Heavy Conversion Unit, RAF Rufforth, York

27th August 1943 - Halifax V, DG 412 crashed at Langtree, Torrington, Devon.  All the seven crew were killed; five were RAF Volunteer Reserve, and two were Royal Australian Air Force.

Commonwealth War Graves Commission Casualty Details

Name: BARTLE, PETER CHADWICK

Nationality: Australian

Rank: Flight Sergeant

Regiment/Service: Royal Australian Air Force

Age: 29

Date of Death: 27/08/1943

Service No: 422103

Son of Mr & Mrs JAC Bartle, Waverley, New South Wales, Australia

Name: HENRY, HUGH PATRICK

Nationality: Australian

Rank: Sergeant

Regiment/Service: Royal Australian Air Force

Age: 22

Date of Death: 27/08/1943

Service No: 425158

Son of John &Anne Cecelia Henry, Greenmount, Queensland, Australia

Both buried at Heanton Punchardon (St Augustine) Churchyard, near Chivenor, North Devon.


Request 666.    Posted 8 Mar 2009

Looking for family or information on Wing Commander Charles E Bonser for family history purposes? Can you assist, all we know is he was appointed Wing Commander in 1979 and took up an appointment in Whitehall.

Regards,  Paul Davis


Request 665.    Posted 6 Mar 2009

I am currently researching 488 Squadron RAF (New Zealand) based in the UK & Europe June 1942 to wars end in 1945. I have recently published a narrative entitled "Last Stand in Singapore" on the original 488 Squadron based in the Far East. This original squadron was disbanded after being decimated by the Japanese in March 1942. My request is to try and make contact with any air or ground - crew members or their families that may have information on the squadron's activities in order to compile a similar narrative of the re-formed 488 squadron. Many of these were RAF servicemen serving with the New Zealand squadron.

Kind regards,

Graham Clayton

167A Point Chevalier Road

Auckland 1246

New Zealand


Request 664.    Posted 6 Mar 2009

Ernest (Chick) Scaife - Sheffield, RAF Air Sea Rescue 1943/47 Gibraltar. I would appreciate anyone who either served at the same time or indeed knew my farther contacting me as I am trying to piece together some of his service history

Thanks.
John Scaife.


Request 663.    Posted 28 Feb 2009

Quite a time ago an older friend of our family moved house, and asked for our assistance in moving, gladly given by us.

In the usual sort out, many items were regarded as no longer needed and were earmarked for "disposal" in one way or another. Amongst these items I found an interesting item which was rescued in the hope of re-uniting it with either its owner, a member of that family, or a member of the one of the families whose names appear inside. How this came to be in the possession of this friend, she does not know, but thinks it possibly came from her father (although he was an Artillery man, who served most of his time in Egypt and Italy)

The item is a copy of "The Sectional New Testament (Daily Portion Edition) published by the Naval And Military Bible Society. It is complete and in reasonable condition, apart from the spine separated from the main part of the book.

Inside the front cover is a message from His Majesty The King dated September 15, 1939. over the page are details of the possible owner as follows:-

Cpl B. Bracewell
432175
1.10.42 (date)

Honeybourne
Stratforf-on-Avon


Underneath is printed "Do not insert Name of Unit or Station"

Directly inside the front cover are the following handwritten details:-

" To Betty from Taff in memory of good times and leg pulling at our Station.

2024620 A.C.W. O.M. Holland (I take A.C.W. to mean Aircraftwoman)
1409926 L.A.C. S. Morgan

The writing is in the sytle of S. Morgan's. I did try a while ago to find details of any of these people, with no success. Do any of our older members recognise the names or the area of Honeybourne.

My aim is to try again in putting this Testament back into the care of any of these names, or a member of these families. Can anybody help?


Request 662.    Posted 28 Feb 2009

Any Pictures of No 2 E.F.T.S JODHPUR 1941 to 1944


Request 661.    Posted 28 Feb 2009

I am seeking information on John Cecil Owen ALLEN of 96 Sqd who was posted as missing ,presumed dead, on 7/6/1944 following an accident in Mosquito Mk XIII :- MM451.


Request 660.    Posted 21 Feb 2009

I am looking for anyone who has information in Richard Hallford b 1933. He passed out of RAF Bridgnorth, No 7 School of recruits on the 18th Dec, 1951. He was posted to RAF Kinloss as a Instrument Mechanic until 17.10.1954. I am attaching the photos that I have in order that it might be of some use to others. The single pic is of my Dad in front of a Hawker Tempest at Kinloss. The other pics are his pass out photo and also the back of the photo, signed by his mates. Any information would be warmly welcomed. Kindest Regards, Richard Hallford

Passing out picture Richard Hallford

click picture to enlarge


Request 659.    Posted 20 Feb 2009

I was wondering if there is anyone who may remember my Mum her name is Joan Dolby she served in WAAF and was stationed in Middle Wallop in WWII.  If you know her please contact me through the link above.

thanks

Harold Conley


Request 658.    Posted 20 Feb 2009

I'm trying to find a Flt Sgt Keith Monk believed to have flown in Lancasters as a rear gunner in one of the Lincolnshire squadrons 1943-45.  FredBoddy.


Request 657.    Posted 15 Feb 2009

I am looking for Marjorie Kathleen Dudley, a WAAF who had a romance with a Polish Fighter Pilot in 1944. Is there anyone who may remember Marjorie - she was possibly at Chivenor in 1945.


Request 656.    Posted 14 Feb 2009

I am researching my Uncle, Fg Off John 'Jack' McNamara.  He was a pilot in 620 SQN flying a Stirling Bomber Mk IV when he was shot down over Norway.  His service records state he was killed on 28 Dec 1944.The 7 graves of him and his crew are still looked after by the local villagers in a place called Sande.  Jack was one of two Australians, the rest of his crew were English.  Jack was RAAF but was assigned to the RAF.  f anyone has any further information or photographs could they get in touch with me please.


Request 655.    Posted 14 Feb 2009

I'm trying to track down a logbook for my great Uncle Pilot Office W H BUDD (69422) who flew Hampdens with 44 Squadron and was killed 21.10.41.  It has very unfortunately been sold out of the family and I am trying to recover this precious heirloom.  Any help most gratefully received!


Request 654.    Posted 14 Feb 2009

I am trying to research my late Father's RAF History for a biography. Thomas Buchanan Clark dob 2/11/1921 a Scots/Canadian known as Jock, Nobby, Tom; joined the Royal Air Force on the 13th of June 1939 as AC 647790. After initial training and "square bashing"  at Cardington he trained as a Wireless Operator at No2 Radio School, Yatesbury. He joined 16 Lysander Squadron at RAF Old Sarum on the 20th of Jan 1940. This unit went first to RAF Hawkinge and then on to Bertangles in France. Tom was a ground based wireless operator, operating in the field between the Lysander "spotters" and the BEF ground battery commanders. On the 10th of May 40 after the German "Blietzrieg" his unit managed to escape France via Cherbourg and went to Okehampton. 

During that August Tom trained as an Air Gunner and after Flying Boat Training Squadron at Stranraer to joined 201 Sunderland Squadron at Sullom Voe (Anti U-Boat/Shipping Recc Patrol) On the 4th of March 1941 he was involved in a fatal air crash where only 4 of the 11 crew survived and after lengthy surgery at Gilbert Bain Memorial Hospital and Stracatho he found that 201 had moved to Northern Ireland. He joined the newly formed in Nov 1941, 279 Air Sea Rescue Squadron at Bircham Newton in the December, this was a Hudson Squadron and he was the dorsal gunner of a crew comprising Pilot Officer Phil Heywood, F/Sgt "Slug" Slugoski Nav, F/Sgt "Ginger" Orr Wop/AG; this crew were together until the end of 1942. They had detachments at Benbecula, Thorney Island and St Eval. In Feb 43 Tom joined 55 Squadron of the Desert Air Force in Egypt, a dorsal gunner on Baltimore, during that May he received an Emergency Commission Flying Officer and he saw service in North Africa/Sicily and Italy. On the 26th of June 1944 the Baltimore he was in was shot down behind the "Gothic Line" and the crew comprising of F/O J.Campbell, Pilot; F/O Stan Hulme (Navigator); W/O E.H. Evans W/Air and himself, baled out. For seven weeks Tom and Stan were kept by peasants behind enemy lines before repatriation to their unit and a reunion with the other two crew.  In Dec 44 he left 55 and after leave, training & recrewing, he joined 271 Squadron Dakota as W/Air flying long haul to India, flying out fresh troops for Far East/Japan and bringing home time expired and former POW's.

In August 1946 he joined VIP Crew to AC in Chief. After a Signals Leaders Course joined the King's Flight on the Royal Tour of South Africa 1947 and other Royal  engagements during the remainder of 1947 and early 1948.As the forthcoming 1948 Royal Tour of Australia & New Zealand was cancelled due to the ill-health of HM King George V1 the crew became time-expired and were disbanded. I don't know if Tom was in the Berlin Airlift 1948/9 but have been told he was with 47 Squadron Hastings at Topcliffe? From Oct 1949 he was briefly with 10 and 24 Squadron, Bassingbourn and Waterbeach VIP work before re-joining KF 22/6/1950 - 12/11/1952.(Queen's Flight) He was then with Far East Air Force Transport Wing W/Air flying Valetta resupply etc for Korean War Kai Tak, Pilot Alec Nickes and thereafter involved in the Malayan Emergency Changi.  In May 55 he was an Examiner/Instructor Air electronics Officer at Air Signallers School (AES) Swanton Morley. He was at RAF Marham on 23rd April 1956 when Khrushchev's Party were there with Korbachov nuclear scientist and Tupolev Soviet Aircraft designer, apparently in the role of technical security (Valiant "V" Bomber Base) then at Hullavington 23/12/57 Flying training Command Sigs Cat Flight change of location. He joined 90 Signals Technical Training Command CSE at Watton 17/11/58 Qual Sigs Leader and was there until Feb 61, in which capacity I do not know. He was then a patient at RAF Hospital Ely for a serious eye operation until the 4th of Sept 61 when he was briefly at Hullavington/Thorney Island Air electronics Officer Instructor flying training Command before re-joining CSE on 2nd Oct Support Command Supy for Admin until medical cat regained. At this time he wore an eye-patch. On 3rd Dec 1962 still at Watton he was with Support Command Qual Sigs Leader Flying Sigs. On 22/5/63 he was a Families Officer with Transport Command at RAF West Raynham where he stayed until retirement 2/11/64. I would be most grateful for any personal or relevant information on this career.  Many thanks Chris Clark.


Request 653.    Posted  6 Feb 2009

I am researching my uncles war service for a book I am writing. He was a fitter/armourer working on Sunderlands and Catalinas at Wig Bay. December 1943 he arrived at RAF Apapa attached to 270 Sqdn with Catalinas and later Sunderlands. Info on this base is very sketchy so if anyone could add some I would be grateful. I am also trying to find out more info on the German Seaplane crewed by Norwegians that flew roughly every fortnight from Poole escorted by Beaufighters. This plane used to land at Wig for refuelling and sadly blew up taking off. I believe it may have been based at Tayport as there were three there at one time. One had RAF markings and at least one other had German markings. My info was that there was still one there at the end of the war, blue in colour with German Markings, again any info gratefully received.


Request 652.    Posted  6 Feb 2009

I am trying to locate the 38 lace panels (see photo) that were produced by Dobsons and M. Browne between 1942 and 1948?

I know the locations of some 30 of them.

Some missing ones are:-

One that was presented to The Air Council.

One that was presented to H. M. King George VI.

one that was presented to Winston Churchill.

One that was presented to The Royal Air Force Association.

It is possible that H.M. King George VI and Churchill passed theirs on to third parties.

I also welcome information on any of the panels as this will serve to confirm my existing data.

regards,

Brian Farr


Request 651.    Posted  6 Feb 2009

My uncle Denis Crowther passed away on 21/01/09 after a short illness.

He was 85 yrs of age and a former Trenchard Brat, having been a Cranwell Apprentice when he joined in August 1939.  After qualifying as a WOM and AG he flew with 86 Squadron from Ballykelly, Reykjavik and Tain where he crewed B24s.  He later went to Lossiemouth with 111 OTU (MET) in 1946, 518 Squadron at Aldergrove and Gibralter. He then went to 202 and 203 Squadrons before he left the RAF in 1949.  If any of your correspondents remember him, I should be grateful for any information, especially how he obtained his nickname SINBAD.

His funeral was at Stourbridge Crematorium on Tuesday 3 February at 12.20 pm.

Hoping to hear from you,  Stuart Harris, Nephew and Executor.


Request 650.    Posted  31 Jan 2009

I started my recruit training at Bridgnorth, on the 1st week of April 1959.  We had a photograph taken outside the hut and I can't remember what flight I was in or what hut I was in.  Are there any photos out there of the flights that went through in April|May 59.

regards David Carnell


Request 649.    Posted  31 Jan 2009

Could anyone help me with information on No. 4 Mobile Parachute Servicing Unit. My father George William ( MICK) THORPE was a member of this unit and would like to trace any former colleagues or further information on this unit.1939-1945.He is alive and well, and living at Seaham, Co. Durham


Request 648.    Posted  31 Jan 2009

My father served as groundcrew with 46 ( Uganda ) Squadron in Egypt from 1941 to 1944. I am interested in any information relating to this period concerning the day to day lives of the crew and the work they did. Please contact Sue on the link above. Thank you


Request 647.    Posted  25 Jan 2009

I, Jan Gerritsen born Bathoorn, am seeking anyone who may have information in regard to the Bernard Fuller ( Born 14 Aug. 1921 RAF soldier 1937-1945)who was stationed at Twenthe, Enschede in the Netherlands from June1945 - October 1945 with 148 R.A.F. Wing Squadron.  If you remember him then I would like to heart from you and can be contacted through the link above.


Request 646.    Posted  24 Jan 2009

I'm trying to locate some old photos of former RAF Hullavington in Wiltshire, (Now Buckley Barracks). I served there in 16 Parachute heavy Drop Company 1972 - 1976

Any help greatly appreciated

Regards

John Broughton


Request 645.    Posted  24 Jan 2009

I am researching the life and work of the late Squadron Leader John Francis ("Jack" or "Kirk") Kirkaldy (later Professor of Geology and Head of Department at Queen Mary College, University of London 1947-74). Kirkaldy served as a civilian in the Meteorological Office from November 1939 to March 1943 and was then commissioned as a Flight Lieutenant in the RAFVR.

He continued as a meteorologist until March 1944 when he transferred to an Air Ministry Unit where he worked on the effects of the weather on soil and the influence of this on the trafficability of tanks and other armoured vehicles. He was promoted to Squadron Leader as a result of this work and was posted to HQ 2TAF in Germany in January 1945 where he remained until the end of April 1945. He then had a brief spell at HQ 84 Group before being demobilised in August 1945.

I am particularly interested in his work in the AM Unit and at HQ 2TAF. I can be contacted via the link above

David A Greenwood, Kirkaldy Society, Newsletter Editor.


Request 644.    Posted  18 Jan 2009

I am interest to here from anyone who knows the history of RAF Tuddenham in Suffolk or who has memories of being stationed there whilst it was still an operational base.

Any information will be gladly received.

Thank You in advanced

Andy


Request 643.    Posted  18 Jan 2009

Does anyone have any information about a collision between a Lysander V9507 and a Hurricane at Totnes, Devon, on 22 Feb 1942. All three crew members of both planes were killed.

The accident seems shrouded in mystery and the family were not really told any details.

My great-uncle was the A Gunner in the Lysander (Air Gnr. Gordon Alexander, Service No. 630576. Age 20)

Many thanks,

Helen Nall


Request 642.    Posted  18 Jan 2009

I am a member of the RAF Seletar Association and served at Seletar [Singapore] in 1957/58.  A fellow member of the Seletar Association was in 81 Squadron at Seletar.  He is trying to find out more about the last ever flight of a Spitfire at Seletar in 1956.  Apparently to commemorate this event, a silver trophy depicting a Spitfire was created. He would be most grateful if anybody knows the whereabouts of this silver trophy and could advise him accordingly.  I believe that he wishes to write an article about this event and the trophy.

Can anybody help, please?


Request 641.    Posted  18 Jan 2009

I was wondering if anyone could help.

I've just been told by an Aunt, that my birth mother, Audrey Phillips, of Little Cheverell, near Devizes, was seeing a chap at RAF Upavon in September 1951, around the time I was conceived!

The only Unit that seems to have been there 'officially' at that time was Transport Command Communication Flt. Can anyone confirm this?

Also I had my DNA tested and either my father had an Arab paternal ancestor a long way back, or my father was an Arab. We were obviously supporting Jordan at that time and Iraq. Other places where my yDNA is rife is Qatar, UAE, Oman and the Yemen.

Anyone know anyone who was in Upavon at that time, or maybe it was Netheravon, it WAS 57 years ago, so my Aunt's memory may be a bit dodgy.

There is a picture of Audrey Phillips at http://rouxrenard.com/photos/audrey.jpg

Hope someone can help. I am very keen to find my father and hoping he is still alive and would be prepared to meet me and his four year old grand daughter.

best regards,

RouX


Request 640.    Posted  17 Jan 2009

I  am writing a Biography about Ronald 'Ras' Berry, of Hull who was an RAFVR pilot and fought in Spitfires during the Battle of Britain and later Operation Torch, North Africa. From Sgt. Pilot he rose to Air Commodore earning the CBE, DSO, DFC & Bar, along the way, retiring in 1969. He commanded 81 Squadron in 1942-3, then took over 322 Wing until the campaign ended. In the Fifties he Commanded a Valiant Bomber squadron at Wyton. If all this jogs any memories of him as a man & leader I'd be pleased to hear about them.


Request 639.    Posted  10 Jan 2009

My daughter and I are looking for any information about Carl Moore R.A.F. We know he was in Kenya 1950 and that he was at Eastleigh Airport/Nairobi during 1950. I have been told that he had been "in the tower" while at Eastleigh. Sadly we do not know anything else about him.

If anyone has any further information about him we would be delighted to hear from you.

Thanks in advance for your help.

Helen


Request 638.    Posted  9 Jan 2009

In my recent book, “God Bless the Prince of Wales”, a Pilot Office DISNEY is mentioned as “Navigation Officer Lecturer, at 10 ITW The Grand Hotel”.

Bill Davies DFC who trained as aircrew in 1942 at 10 ITW is quoted in the book, “I was particularly lucky in so far as a certain Pilot Officer Disney taught the navigation course at 10 ITW. Everything Disney said I absorbed and retained. Disney, I have always concluded, was the finest lecturer I ever had the pleasure of being instructed by.”

Bill now lives in Canada and is in his late 80’s and to fulfil a lifetime wish he would desperately like to have any news about PO Disney. A further enquiry has been raised by a lady now living in Scarborough. Her maiden name was Disney and she is researching her family tree as she feels it just possible that she might be related to PO Disney.

Please, can anyone help?


Request 637.    Posted  9 Jan 2009

Having recently published a book, “God Bless the Prince of Wales” about Scarborough during wartime and memories of some of the 6000 or so aircrew who trained in the town at ITW10, ITW 11 and ITW 17, (copies available direct from me at a special RAF Web price of £9.99 inc postage –address below), I am now researching a new book about the National Service years.

I particularly need memories from those who served in any of the Services during those years – the more unusual the better! If you require a memory jogger which lists the sort of National Service areas in which I am interested, please e-mail me.

Memories, preferably by e-mail and all of which will be acknowledged, can be sent to me:

dgfowler <AT> farthings.org.uk

or

David Fowler, 8 Christine House, 1 Avenue Victoria, SCARBOROUGH YO11 2QB


Request 636.    Posted  27 Dec 2008

I'm trying to research information for my grandad Wilf Collins who was posted as a wireless operator in Cochin India in 1944, i am in the process of obtaining his rank and service number, i know he trained at the radio school Blackpool and was sent to RAF Compton Bassett before a sea voyage to India .any information would be greatly appreciated.


Request 635.    Posted  27 Dec 2008

I am trying to obtain information and photograph of Captain Cecil Claude Ballyn, D.F.C. & Bar.

Any help would be very gratefully received.

He attended Ruthin School, Ruthin, North Wales, and as he was killed in the 39-45 War, his name is on the School War Memorial.

Richard B. Aldrich,

Recorder, The Old Ruthinian Association,


Request 634.    Posted  20 Dec 2008

Trying to find more info about 511 Forward Repair Unit  and personnel during WW2.

My father Corporal Herbert POTTS, known as Eric POTTS ,was in the above, serving after D Day at Lille France and Wavelgham Belgium subsequently being demobbed at Luneburg.

He remembers mates Wilkinson from Winsford Cheshire and Williams from Lllandudno Junction.


Request 633.    Posted  20 Dec 2008

Can anyone help me? I have trying for some years to trace my Grandfathers brothers son John Goodman born in 1915 who was in a bomber squadron during the second world war, he served in the RAF for 28 years first commisioned when 25 years old on 6th December 1940 and reached the rank of Air Commodore on 1st January 1964. He was in the technical branch and had engineering qualifications receiving the CBE in 1967 retiring the following year. Has anyone any information whatsoever? His father was Thomas and his mother Mabel and he has a sister Winifred.


Request 632.    Posted  14 Dec 2008

During the emergency  I served with the Malaya Police Force for about  eight  nine  years . For most of my service  I was a platoon commander with a police operations unit , also for a time I was commander of Fort Brooke, one of the twelve    jungle forts. At present I'm writing a book about the little known jungle forts, and the important role they played in defeating the communists. With these forts being postioned in deep jungle,  all supplies had to air dropped into them. To help me with my research , I'm trying to contact   any  members of No 52 Squadron RAF  who flew  Valetta aircraft on these dangerous missions of  making   ADs to the  jungle forts, also  to  patrols on the ground.

A most interesting site.

Thank you.

Roy Follows


Request 631.    Posted  6 Dec 2008

I am looking for anyone who may have known my grandpa Thomas Henry Mashford.  He trained at Padgate 10/1940 – 12/1049 3RC.  Then to Middle Wallop joined 245 Sqdn. Went to India in 1942 in the 62 Sqdn, 353 Sqdn, 312 M.U (also in Burma).  I would love to hear from anyone who knew him or has any photographs of these squadrons.

Lesley Hawkins


Request 630.    Posted  6 Dec 2008

I am trying to find any information regarding my father Thomas Henry (Tom) Rayner who served with RAF 78 Squadron, he was a wireless operator/rear gunner on Halifax bombers, during WW11 and was stationed at RAF Breighton at some time. Michael Rayner


Request 629.    Posted  6 Dec 2008

Does anyone have any info. on the spitfire? crash in Cupar in the Second World War? My Dad was evacuated to Cupar, Fife from Leith during the war and remembers the Spitfire crashing in the park. His memory is that the pilot was a Norwegian flying for the RAF. My Dad - who would have been 11 or 12, says the commonly held belief was that the pilot was engaged to his younger brother's school teacher, and the pilot was doing a low flypast the school when he crashed. Does anyone have any further info?

Best Wishes,

Hazel    


Request 628.    Posted 30 Nov 2008

I am looking for any information/references regarding the crew of Stirling EH952 of 196 Squadron based at Witchford August 1943. My father was the Bomb Aimer of this crew.

The aircraft ditched on 24/8/43 and all the crew became POW's at Stalag 1VB, Muhlburg until the end of the war.

The crew were:

Pilot - Sgt Percy William Brett,

Navigator - Sgt Eric Walter John Kerr,

Air Bomber - Sgt Douglas Henry Canning,

W/Op-Air Gnr. - Sgt Louis Henry Huggins,

Flt. Engr. - Sgt Raymond Albert Treadwell,

Air Gnr. - Sgt D.F. "Mushy" Moore

Air Gnr. - Sgt Edward Lawton.

Any information, photo's, etc regarding this crew or 196 Squadron would be very much appreciated.

Andy Canning


Request 627.    Posted 30 Nov 2008

I would be very grateful if anyone in the Staffordshire area could tell me the name of the American Air Force Units stationed around Stone, Staffs. After WWII when most of the aircrafts and crew returned to USA (1948) USAAF staff were retained around the UK. I am interested in 1956.  There must be someone in the RAF who served alongside these Units and may even know th GI I am looking for. His name is ROBERT MALLORY, he would be 72+ now. Any help would be very much appreciated.  Ta! Caesar Doyle.


Request 626.    Posted 30 Nov 2008

Does anyone have any information about Frank Dance who joined 501 Squadron as chaplain in 1939? We know he served the latter part of the war at RAF Locking but believe he was with the squadron when they went to France in 1939.
Tom - Forest of Dean, UK


Request 625.    Posted 30 Nov 2008

I am trying to find Joe Tazewell/Toswell/Taswell or any other spelling. He was part of the British Commonwealth Training Program here in Canada during 1942. He left NB to go to Assiboine to train out West in Sask. He came from Somerset around the Bristol area in England. I have no other info. If anyone can suggest any leads, I would be grateful.


Request 624.    Posted 23 Nov 2008

I am trying to find out about my father Sgt Stanley George Goodey’s service before he enlisted with the RAF on 18th June 1940 and after he was taken Prisoner of War on 11th June 1942 until he was repatriated on 7th May 1945.  My father was born in 1916 and died in September 2007. I was born in 1951. My parents separated in early 1955 and I didn’t have contact with my father early 2007 when my brother and I were able to discover his whereabouts. He was now 90 years old and his memory wasn’t as good as it once was also he had difficulty in hearing and speaking due to a stroke.

My father said that he served with 600 Squadron from 1934 to 1947. His younger brothers (my Uncles now in their 80s), both say that he was a pilot with 600 squadron, and that they used to watch him taking off and landing from Northolt Airfield. According to my fathers RAF Service Record he served with the Auxiliary Air Force between 1934 and 1937 before enlisting with the RAF in June 1940. Between 1937 and 1940 at some point, I believe my father served in Palestine, possibly with the British Police Force there, but it could have been with the RAF, I haven’t been able to determine. This was confirmed by Sgt Len Tonkin RAAF (now age 92 who lives in Australia) who new my father as they served together in 2 squadrons. Len Tonkin was the pilot of the crew my father served with in 115 Squadron and 214 Squadron. My father was an Air Gunner in Bombers. His plane crashed in June 1942 and he along with the rest of the crew who all survived, became POWs.

I have contacted the RAF Disclosure Unit who couldn’t locate any records for my fathers Service with 600 Squadron. I have also contacted the Palestine (British) Police Force Association who also couldn’t confirm my father’s service with them.

Any help with my quest to discover more about my father’s life with 600 Squadron, with the British Police Force (or RAF) in Palestine, and as a POW would be very much appreciated.

Regards

Richard G. Miller


Request 623.    Posted 16 Nov 2008

I am trying to find the date and place of birth of Flight Lt. Frank Steight Gardner.  He died 24 March 1938 while piloting an aircraft from the Long Range Development Unit, Upper Heyford.   The aircraft was reported missing and was never found.

I have good reason to believe that we are related.

Thank you,

Keith Stait-Gardner


Request 622.    Posted 15 Nov 2008

I have a photo of the "Chain Home" crew, based at West Drayton during WW2.

It has No 6 crew and No 2 Installation unit written on the back.

Also some of the names of the men in it, including my Grandfather.

Names are: J Waller (Sandy), W Deacon (Bill), R.F Dobbinson (Lofty), E.H Bates (295 Ernie) ,Eric Dixon (Ricky),W Payne, R Partidge (Bob).

Anyone recognise any of these names?


Request 621.    Posted 14 Nov 2008

My father's name was Thomas Hamilton and he served with this squadron through out the war years as a leading aircraftsman i still have his photo album which documents his service whilst in india and burma , are there any relatives of any of the RAF personnel out there who can remember my father ?


Request 620.    Posted 14 Nov 2008

Would anyone have a copy of a photo of 50 squadron members beside a lancaster in the 40's,mines gone walkabout
 


Request 619.    Posted 14 Nov 2008

I am keen to find out about RAF and assistance personnel based at Tain Aerodrome in the early 1940s.  I am particularly keen to hear about Thomas Goundry who was posted there at that time.
 
Many thanks
 
Kay


Request 618.    Posted 1 Nov 2008

Help needed in contacting anyone who was based at the former RAF Binbrook.  Building up a collection of photographs and artefacts to be placed in a museum on the former base as well as a website.
Trying to contact anyone who was based there throughout its operational life and had anything to do with the base in any way.
Please contact me on the link above
Regards
Darren


Request 617.    Posted 1 Nov 2008

Hi there, this is a very long shot but I am trying to find out anything about a black American serviceman based in Burtonwood, possibly between 1953 and 1955. I believe his name was Major Watson (Major being his christian name not his rank) He would have probably been about 30+ years old at that time. I do not know what part of the USA he came from but I have reason to believe that he is (was) my dad.

Donna Talbot

England.


Request 616.    Posted 1 Nov 2008

I would love to hear from any ex servicemen RAF VR who may remember my late dad. His name was Harry King and he was from Cleckheaton in the West Riding of Yorkshire he volunteered in 1940 and went through the Padgate reception centre his trade was Cook and Butcher and for a spell he was posted to the Majestic Hotel in Harrogate where officers were billeted. He was also at RAF Catterick for a spell and then was sent to the USA and billeted in Quincy,Boston Mass with a family called Rowbotham, I would love to know why he was sent to the USA (he also was billeted in Canada for a while) it was never discussed.

He was sent to Burma via India and was in Burma until 1945 I think he was attached to a RADAR hill station and suffered the deprivations of Beri Beri,trench foot and loosing his teeth through gum disease He was still in Burma when Japan surrendered and then they were fighting off the communists

He finished his service as a LAC and he was entitled to the 1939/45 Star and the Burma Star

Sincere thanks

Michael A King


Request 615.    Posted 1 Nov 2008

12 Squadron Binbrook 1942

I am looking for crew and squadron photographs from late 1941 but particularly up to August 1942 before the move to Wickenby.

Thank you very much

Shaun Pryde


Request 614.    Posted 1 Nov 2008

Hello, my name is Fred Woodhouse, ex - RAF. Did you serve with 266 SAM Squadron or know of any body that did? I served from 1960 – 1961 just before it was disbanded and would like to contact any ex members, particularly from RAF Rattlesden.  I am researching a new book about 266 so if you can help out there it would be most appreciated.


Request 613.    Posted 1 Nov 2008

I joined 6 squadron at Habbaniya as an armourer at the end of April 1954. At that time I remember hearing of an incident where three airmen were injured during the loading of rockets on a 73 squadron Venom. This incident was again highlighted in a recent 6 squadron association "Newsletter" but few could get any accurate information on the subject. The rather vague recollections that I have were that, one armourer was killed, another seriously injured, with a third ground crew member injured. Could I impose on you to find out if, through your 73 squadron knowledge, you could clear up the confusion and supply me with the facts.


Request 612.    Posted 1 Nov 2008

Hi,  looking for people who served with Chief tech Henry Noble Hetherington at RAF Leconfield  in 92 squadron  I think it may have been late 1950 early 1960  , He was my father, I can remember getting my but walloped for setting off the big white fire extinguisher by the cubs den, I think I was 5 or 6 then.  The name  Tate rings a bell, we went to visit them often

regards

Peter Hetherington


Request 611.    Posted 24 Oct 2008

I am looking for information about my dad. His name was Desmond Claude King. Born 1925 in Bromley. He joined the RAF at a young age lying about his age. He appears to have spent most of his time in India. I know he was late home from the war. He was a technician, later in life he was very involved in avionics, landing & navigation systems. He was a keen photographer, pictures of landmarks in India, friends at Simla. Mosquito PRXVI RG256 SNAKE. Dad stood on the wing of a P47 code RV-A? Angel on the cowling. Seemed to travel a lot in India and had many friends. Boxiing? Also known later at Biggin Hill as Dave King. Had 7 children so any onfo would be very much appreciated. Excellent website. Regards to all. Tony King


Request 610.    Posted 23 Oct 2008

I am looking for info about a Polish flyer in the 2nd world war with the forename Victor. Probably stationed in Yorkshire.

Stan S.


Request 609.    Posted 21 Oct 2008

I have a large Photograph of Douglas Gilbert who was in 126 Sqdn the photo is of him in his Spitfire having just returned from a raid over Sicily 1943. We met Doug in 1996 and then lost touch in about 1999 when we moved from the area.  He wasn't in very good health then, so he may have passed away, but if anyone can give any information I would be interested.

Many Thanks,  Mike Morris


Request 608.    Posted 21 Oct 2008

I am looking for data on the Tempest EJ 650 W2-? Of 80 squadron. This aircraft crashed on the Ilse of Goeree-Overflakkee in the southwest of the Netherlands on September 25, 1944. The pilot was J.E. Wiltshire 146892. He was taken POW to Stalag Luft I 

He who has any information about he pilot, the plane or any other data, please respond?

With regards

Kees Stoutjesdijk

Secretary foundation WO2GO


Request 607.    Posted 18 Oct 2008

I am looking for information about a man calling "Paddy" Irish, mechanic on Spitfires in the 2nd World War in France  in 1946, in Oswestry after the war still mechanic for aircraft

thanks from France Wilfrid 


Request 606.    Posted 18 Oct 2008

500 Squadron - I am trying to find / trace two old members of 500 squadron - an H Symonds who used to live in Park Ave Sittingbourne and a W. A. Copp who used to live in Crawford.


Request 605.    Posted 12 Oct 2008

I am trying trying to identify the unit my wifes' grandfather belong  to.   His name was George Henry Taylor, and was killed in the sinking of the 'Lancastria'. The index "War Deaths (RAF- All Ranks) 1939 -1948"gives his unit as '2 BA' (No 2 Base Area - webmaster). I can not find any information about it. Any assistance appreciated.


Request 604.    Posted 12 Oct 2008

Can you please help me to find out about the circumstances surrounding the crash and death of my father's brother, Flt Lt 578833 Arthur James Crossland Taylor, RAF. He died, aged 28, I believe, on 4th February 1955 whilst flying a Canadair Sabre out of RAF Wildenrath. His squadron may have been either 26, 71 or the OCU. I'd be grateful for any information, including hearing from anyone who knew him, along with photos of him, his Sabre aircraft (and aircraft Serial No), previous service and details of who his immediate family were and where they lived in Germany at that time.  I''ve searched the web, found some excellent sites but none that even mention this crash or Arthur himself.

Thank you, in ever hopeful anticipation.


Request 603.    Posted 4 Oct 2008

Donald May RAAF  passed away 29/8/08

No 77 OTU April 44 to June 44 then 150 Squadron Regina Italy July 44 to Sept 44 then 104 Squadron Jan 45 to Feb 27 45 then No 77 OTU Quastina Palestine April 45 then finally No 11 FIS May 2 45 to July 45

Anyone with info appreciated especially his navigator Sgt Jack Weekly

Thanks - Lindsay May his son


Request 602.    Posted 4 Oct 2008

I am looking for any information or photos on Group Captain Frank Richard Jones. He was born 1909 and was living in Exeter when he died 1989.

He married in 1947 to Lillian Hypatia Mogg, at the time he was a Motel Manager. His parents lived in the Dorset, Devon & Hampshire area.

I have been researching my Jones line for about 6 years and have a lot of info to share with descendants.

Regards 

Rose from OZ


Request 601.    Posted 4 Oct 2008

Does anyone have any references to my father, Frederick Hubert (Hugh) Brown who was, we think, in 600 City of London Fighter Squadron, and possibly later in 35 (Winged Horse?) Squadron? He is mentioned in the book Cheshire VC. He was a POW from July 1941, in Stalag Luft 3 and 6, after being shot down in a Halifax landed by the pilot Peter Langmead with all 4 engines on fire. I can be contacted through the link above.


Request 600.    Posted 21 Sep 2008

Can anybody tell me about a john Patrick Donovan I believe he was a leading aircraftman and corporal he did survive the ww2 but passed away 1964 he was a good musican also served abroad and I believe he was a engineer.


Request 599.    Posted 21 Sep 2008

I'm looking for a WAAF Peggy Kitching or Kitchin who worked "on the plot" at RAF Newmarket in 1942. She was engaged to my uncle Sgt Jim Kendal RNZAF who failed to return from a raid on 17/12/1942. Does anyone know what happened to her?


Request 598.    Posted 13 Sep 2008

I'm looking for information about RAF activities at Dollarbeg House in Clackmannanshire during WW2. I'm particularly interested in what was going on there during 1941. I understand that No.72 (Signals) Wing was located there and they were controlling radar stations in the north of England and Scotland. Does anyone have any more details? Was there anything else happening there in addition to radar?


Request 597.    Posted 13 Sep 2008

I am looking for a photo of the main entrance to RAF Padgate circa 1947/48.

Bill Waterworth


Request 596.    Posted 6 Sep 2008

I am looking for airman who was station at RAF Bruntingthorpe England back to 1956-1959.


Request 595.    Posted 26 Aug 2008

I am an ex RAF Police dog handler (Served in Ceylon) seeking any ex-RAF/FAA who served in Ceylon, (Sri Lanka) re research.

Jeff Robinson


Request 594.    Posted 24 Aug 2008

F/Lt  G. (Geoffrey ) Campbell –Brown   (wife’s uncle) 183 Squadron . Died 17th August 1944  flying Typhoon 1b  JP681 M by ME 109 whilst on recce mission over Falaise .  Buried at Caen.   Any information of interest would be appreciated.  Thank you.


Request 593.    Posted 23 Aug 2008

Does anyone remember or have information about; P/O Jack Dempsey Peel, RAFVR,115123.He and his crew flew  Stirling W7567 BU-S from No.214 Squadron, to target Duisberg on 24th July 1942.The aircraft was shot down by a night fighter P/OPeel was KIA and was buried at Werkendam in Holland.

Thank you for your help,


Request 592.    Posted 23 Aug 2008

My father was killed in a Canberra jet 29 Jan 1963 on reconnaissance.  There have been some family stories regarding a known problem with the altimeter usage and the then G.P.O. the R.A.F. put the crash down to pilot losing the horizon due to snowy conditions.  I wondered if there is any info on problems with this craft also if anyone out there knew my dad or anything about the crash .  I can find nothing on the web although I have been led to believe it was reported in the media of the time.  hopefully yours Caroline Lynn [nee broughton


Request 591.    Posted 17 Aug 2008

I have a copy of a Squadron Magazine...."TIGER RAG", dated Christmas 1944.

There are no clues as to which Squadron published this.........all I know is that it was somewhere in India.

I hope someone can fill in the missing detail.....Squadron number, and RAF Station.

Brian Knight>


Request 590.    Posted 17 Aug 2008

Mr Earle James Gordon Linklater  also known as 'Link' he was at RAF Silloth.  He was flying the Hudson bombers with No 608 squadron while serving in England, Gibraltar, Malta, Sicily, Southern  France and North Africa.  I  ask for some information if any off the men that were in squadron No 608 to reply


Request 589.    Posted 9 Aug 2008

My father James Smith born 1-1-28 was in the RAF. Wunstorf in 1946- 1948, in Germany. he met a Maria Kesseler who was born about the same year.  When my father left the RAF. he went to live with my grandmother in hackney, London.  Maria came looking for him and she was expecting his child.  I'm not sure what happened, but Maria left and my father had been searching for her for years until he died in November, 2005.
I want to carry on his search for her and their child- my half brother or sister. please could you help me in my search for Maria. i think she came from Lindlar, near Wunstorf and worked at the RAF base.  I'm sure that's where they met.
Please help me
Lesley Dean.  


Request 588.    Posted 9 Aug 2008

I am looking for any information  about my uncle Louis Gordon Oliphant Hutchison - known as Gordon. He served in the RAF during the second world war but I do not know in which squadron. He was a  great character! Please tell me if you knew him, plus any anecdotes.


Request 587.    Posted 9 Aug 2008

255 N/F Squadron was the first to be stationed at Hibalstow, a satellite, when it became (partially) operational in 1941.  We had been at nearby Kirton-in-Lindsey prior to that with the Eagle Squadron, among a couple of others, if I remember correctly.

Our C O then had made, from a single propeller blade and silver, model, ‘jerries’ (chamber pots) which hung from it by a silver chain.  All this was attached to a wooden base.  Each silver ‘jerry’ had the squadron pilot’s name, a/c, and date on which a German aircraft was destroyed thereon.  Unsurprisingly, I have never found anyone who knew what happened to this unique memorial and wonder if anyone can supply the answer.  One of my interests in it is because, in August of 1941, S/L (then) Johnny Bartlett gave me the job, when I was squadron gunnery officer, of having his idea created with the help of a well-known London jewellers!   After I had been posted to another unit, 255 squadron went, in a year or more, to the Middle East, so it may have ended up there.

Some squadron may have, even today, a very special artefact!  It’d be great to know if it is still in existence.

Michael F. Wynne-Willson.

RAFVR. 89625.


Request 586.    Posted 9 Aug 2008

228 Squadron Coastal Command - Pembroke Dock.

We are trying to trace the families of the crew of the Sunderland DW110 which crashed in January 1944 in the Blue Stack Mountains in Ireland.  We are particularly interested in the following:

F/Lt Howard Charles Sheffield Armstrong DFC service number 42383 (killed 1944), Sgt C S Hobbs 1644857 (survived), Sgt Cyril Robinson Greenwood 1129218 (killed 1944, Sgt John Ernest Parsons 1315937 (killed 1944), F/Sgt A "Jim" Gowans 1055929 (survived)

We have a memorial website and would like to contact as many family members as possible for a 65th Anniversary get together. the website is www.freewebs.com/dw110


Request 585.    Posted 1 Aug 2008

My grandfather died recently, he was in the RAF (ac/1 113 MU MEF). We know he was posted to Greece in 1944 and a prisoner of Greek rebels late in that year. If anyone can tell me what happened as I seem to go around in circles trying to find out. He refused to talk about it when we were younger. Also we have no idea what he actually did in the RAF but he could tell one plane from another by silhouette Many thanks Allison


Request 584.    Posted 1 Aug 2008

Removed by request of the enquirer


Request 583.    Posted 1 Aug 2008

My name is John Gemmell, living in Chilliwack. B.C. Canada.  I am trying to locate information about my uncle, Pilot Officer John Phipps DONCASTER after whom I was named.  John was with the RCAF, attached to the RAF, flying a Bristol Beaufighter at Malta when he was killed in July 1942, in company with his observer/gunner, a Sgt. Webster   It is my understanding they were engaged in anti-shipping sorties from Malta.   I have undertaken a project to build a large scale model aircraft which I wish to duplicate as much as possible that flown by my uncle.  I understand he was engaged in anti-shipping sorties out of Malta at the time of his death.  I will greatly appreciate the assistance of anyone to identify the actual "Mark"/Type of his aircraft, including its markings, colour scheme, armament, external equipment, etc.  Please forward any/all info to : John Gemmell using the link above or via mail to myself at #105-45769 Stevenson Road, Chilliwack, B.C.  Canada V 2 R   5 Z 2


Request 582.    Posted 12 Jul 2008

My name is Andrew Carlisle and wonder if anyone knew a Peter Carlisle. He was in the RAFVR as a Flying Officer and was awarded the DFC. He was killed on 28th September 1944, aged 24. His name appears on Panel 205 at the Runnymead Memorial. Unfortunately this is all I know about him, so I hope someone out there recognises the name.


Request 581.    Posted 5 Jul 2008

I am researching a project and the name of Flt Sgt B Mitchell who may have been stationed at Mount Batten in 1967 has turned up – but I no other information than that.  Can anyone help me?

Lesley Dewar

East Victoria Park  6101

Western Australia


Request 580.    Posted 5 Jul 2008

I am trying to trace an old acquaintance.  Squadron Leader Sidney Virgo was Senior Mt. Officer at Piarco airfield, Trinidad, between 1945 and 1947.  The only information I have is that he was either a Maths or Science Master at a Harrogate school before WWll. 


Request 579.    Posted 28 Jun 2008

Looking for relatives of Simon Cole (Fleet Air Arm?) or any leads to this man

Apparently kicked out for flying under one of the Thames bridges in protest to the cancellation of Another Brit Plane by the Government of the Day (TSR2?) Our harold! 

I know people here (South Africa) who have read a newspaper cutting that Simon showed them, about this incident, but I don't know which paper or what date. 

Simon (like monty pythons parrot) is no-more, but I figure there must be some-one out there who gives a damn!

Any assist gratefully recieved


Request 578.    Posted 22 Jun 2008

I am searching for information about a cousin of my dad, Sgt Devinder Sidhu who had  joined the RAF and was shot down on night 28/29 April 1943,on a mission off the coast off Denmark ,laying mines in the Fahmarn Belt. The bomber crew [Stirling W7513] was declared missing. I have an old photograph of the crew lined up in front of the aircraft. He had initially joined the De Havilland Company as an apprentice prior to the war. He was also a very good Hockey player. He was the Flight Engineer of the Bomber. Sgt Halliburton was the pilot of the bomber which belonged to 75 Squadron based at Newmarket, England. The crew was all New Zealanders except for Sgt Sidhu who was an Indian. I am from India. My address- D. S. SARAO 1553, Sector 18D, Chandigarh, INDIA.   I would like to contact any family members of the crew.

Mr. D. S. Sarao


Request 577.    Posted 22 Jun 2008

I'm researching Blyton airfield's operational records, its hard to piece  all the parts together, but I will get there!  Lots of crashes in the airfield are, some from Blyton some not.  If anyone out there served there in any capacity I would welcome their comments.  Thanks Steve W


Request 576.    Posted 22 Jun 2008

I was wondering if you could possibly help me, by placing a note on your forum page. I am trying to find people who may of served with Jacques Lloyd who was based at RAF Hammerwood, East Sussex in 1945. He was French Canadian and originally from Newfoundland.
I would be most grateful for your help, or any other ideas you may have.

Very many thanks,

Kerrie Calladine


Request 575.    Posted 25 May 2008

I am trying to find anyone or their friends or elatives who may have known my father, Corporal Terry Fleet, he was an aircraft engineer in the RAF. Unfortunately I do not have much more to go on, he is now dead ( July 1993, Lung cancer). My Mum is Ann , then Mrs Ann Fleet, I was born at RAF Sealand in October 1959, and baptised at Hawarden.

I have a brother Terry and two sisters Susan and Colleen.

In 1961 Dad was posted to RAF Butzweilerhof, Köln, Germany. Our family is from Liverpool, England. dad's dad was in the RSF  I believe and understand that he deserted, and my dad was put under pressure from my gran to find grandad.

It would be great if someone out there could help an often felt displaced daughter. Mum and dad had a very acrimonious split ( long story).

Kind regards  Julie Gregory ( nee Fleet)


Request 574.    Posted 25 May 2008

During my continuing trawl through the internet for anything historical connected with the RAF Police, I recently came across a snippet of information regarding the RAF Police at RAF Akrotiri being placed on standby sometime in 1959 to deal with a mutiny and riot involving members of No 194 (Field) RAF Regiment Squadron at their tented barracks within the French Camp area. Strangely, it seems that all trace of this incident has been erased from the records and the squadron, which formed in 1952, was disbanded in 1960. To assist with my ongoing history of the RAF Police during its first 100 years, I would like to hear from anyone who can tell me more about this incident. I have e-mailed the web master on the RAF Regiment website and await any response although I doubt it will be positive because I understand that the incident may well have caused extreme embarrassment at the time to the RAF and the RAF Regiment.

Once again, if anyone can help then please contact me via the link above

Many thanks in anticipation.


Request 573.    Posted 25 May 2008

I am seeking information about 16 Sqn RAF, during the period in 1944 immediately after the D Day landings.

My Uncle, James Wallace, was a pilot with 16 Sqn at this time and was shot down and killed on 9 Sept 1944.

Any information about the Sqn, its aircraft at that time, or any survivors, most gratefully received.

Iain Ross Wallace


Request 572.    Posted 25 May 2008

I'm a television producer currently working on an exciting television documentary which will tell the WWII airborne story of the B-25 Mitchell. I'm therefore very keen to find any former RAF/RNAF crew to talk about their experiences in all the theatres of war in which the B-25 saw active service. I believe I'm looking for members of 98, 180 226, 305, 313 320 (Dutch), 342, 681 684 Squadrons.
I can be contacted directly on 0208 241 2104 or by email on the link above


Request 571.    Posted 10 May 2008

Would like to contact anyone from Class SE42-C - trained in USA. Phone # 509-465-4768

Tony Johnstone


Request 570.    Posted 3 May 2008

Some questions about a crew photograph probably made at 9th January 1944. 

Photo of RAF crew in Request 530

Standing (left to right): navigator F/O Alfred McKay) - wireless o/p Sgt Bill Davis - bomb aimer Sgt Tom Chidwick - tail gunner Sgt Harold Dyerson.


Sitting front row (left to right): mid upper gunner Sgt Alexander Shiels - pilot Sgt Gordon Pearce - flight engineer Sgt Roy Laybourne. McKay, Dyerson, Shiels, Laybourne were killed at April 27th as their Lancaster ND 873 (P/O George Nicholls) crashed near Asten in the south of the Netherlands after been shot down by a Messerschmitt. The Lancaster took off from Wickenby for an operation on Essen.

To the photo I have following questions:
-  Does anyone know where this photo was made? For sure not at Wickenby, probably at Lindholme?
-  Are Sgt. William Davis and Sgt. Gordon Pearce still alive? Or are some relatives or friends still alive, who possibly can tell more to this photograph?


Request 569.    Posted 3 May 2008

A very good friend of mine from boarding school days (so 30 years and counting!) is trying to trace anyone who may know his Dad who passed away whilst he was at school with me.  We both went to a military boarding school "Gordon Boys" in West End, Woking, Surrey.  Some pictures of him are shown below.

His father is: Anthony Earnest Windale

Died: 24th august 1974,aged forty years

Was in Episkopi 1968 to 1971, as a Medic, then at Leeming till his death in '74,

He was a member of the "buffalos" for a long time.


Request 568.    Posted 3 May 2008

I am trying to find some information on my late father who was based in Moenchen Gladbach in Germany, he was there from about 1954 to 1957.

His name was Corporal Patrick Fintan O'Connell 4009498, and was married to Eileen (nee sushams), they had four children, he was in the Royal Airforce, my brother and I were born in RAF Wegberg hospital, he went on to be posted in RAF Standbridge, Leighton Buzzard, Beds, any information would be of  assistance, with thanks, Christine.


Request 567.    Posted 26 Apr 2008

Removed


Request 566.    Posted 20 Apr 2008

I would like very much to know more about my late father's wartime RAF service. He was from Glasgow and his name was John Prentice. After training and service in England, he was posted to India and was with 2962 Squadron, RAF Regiment from its formation in 1944 until its disbandment in 1946, serving in Cocos (Keeling) Islands and on Java. His rank was LAC.

I should be grateful for any information, particularly about 2962 Squadron.


Request 565.    Posted 20 Apr 2008

Does anyone who frequents the board have details on S/Ldr Royd Martin FENWICK-WILSON (34218) latter Wing Commander Fenwick-Wilson, AFC.

I have details via Hugh Hallidays excellent site, I am after a photograph if possible and possible contact with his family. Can anyone help or point me in the right direction please.


Request 564.    Posted 13 Apr 2008

Bonjour,

Will it be possible to get in contact with crew members of the Liberator A72-133 who ditched in an Indonesian island on 27/04/1945.

Last month I was in this island and I found testimonies ,they where living at the site of the crash in the morning of 27/04/1945.

Thanks a lot for your help.

C. Bernard.


Request 563.    Posted 13 Apr 2008

My name is Miss Jane Stachow and I live in Dorum , Germany . I do hope you will not mind my writing to you but I am trying to trace former members of the RAF who were stationed in Berlin in the very early nineteen fifties, exactly 1950 .  I would be most grateful for your help . Any information you might have regarding ore any of your colleagues at that time , including how I might still get in touch with them , would be most useful to me .

I do hope to heare from you as soon as possible.

With best regards

Jane Stachow


Request 562.    Posted 11 Apr 2008

I am trying to find up to date information on Ken Fixter, M.T. Mechanic, R.A.F. Jurby, I.O.M, 1954, or where do I go to get this information?  Can anyone help?

Allan Wall


Request 561.    Posted 11 Apr 2008

Can any one provide info. re RAF Binbrook, my father Terry 'TED' Baker was stationed there between 1952 and 1954,we visited the camp 07/04/2008 and he would like to hear from any one who remembers him.Kevin Baker


Request 560.    Posted 11 Apr 2008

I am Linda Prentice trying to find any information about my parents Marjorie and Robert Prentice whi met in wick and married. I am particularly trying to find out there Airforce ID numbers.


Request 559.    Posted 6 Apr 2008

Does anyone remember my Dad, Sgt J W Wood from Manchester. He was in 8 Squadron, flying in Wellington 13. He was a rear gunner.


Request 558.    Posted 25 Mar 2008

I'm Heinz Johannsen from Rendsburg Germany, I'm looking for members of the 2856 Sqdn. RAF Regt. and 309 Supply and Transport Column RAF,  both where stationed in Rendsburg 1945/46.  I'm still in contact with a few ex members. I was 10 years old at that time. Also looking for personal of the RAF Station Schleswig Land after the war and Berlin Airlift.  My phone Nr. 0049 4331 448855  it would be nice to have a response.  Thank you  .  Heinz Johannsen


Request 557.    Posted 15 Mar 2008

Re Squadron Leadrer Bob (Robert)Baelz

I am researching my late father's RAF career. He was stationed at Horsham St Faith in early 40's. During the war spent time in N Africa. Post war he commanded 74 sqadron.

Can anyone help?

Thanks


Request 556.    Has been answered and removed


Request 555.    Posted 29 Feb 2008

Trying to find any info or pics of Arthur bird who I met recently now 89 he was a pilot during the war an intruder pilot and served with 23 and 605 squadron I believe he went on to be a commanding officer but so far I am drawing a blank, trying to find things I can present to him he's a gent.

Thanks

Steven Mclelland, 9 Avon Close, Morton West, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA2 6RZ

I believe he features in a few books mainly A20  Boston at war


Request 554.    Posted 23 Feb 2008

I am looking for info on my father (Peter) George Hutchinson, recipient of the George Cross, who flew Blenheims with AM Sir Ivor Broom. After the war he was with the RCAF & later flew for various airlines inc. CPAir & Lufthansa. If anyone happens to know his present whereabouts or any other info, I would greatly appreciate hearing. Thank you.


Request 553.    Posted 17 Feb 2008

I am researching the history of St. Davids airfield in Pembrokeshire, and would like to communicate with anyone with information about its history, stories, photos etc.

Mike Bennett.


Request 552.    Posted 10 Feb 2008

Searching information on my father Air Vice Marshal Constantine Kriemadis OBE, Royal Hellenic Air Force. Served under Marshal of the Royal Air Force the Lord Tedder, Marshal of the Royal Air Force Lord Douglas of Kirtleside, Marshal of the Royal Air Force Sir John Slessor during WWII in ME, Italy and Balkans. Any information would be much appreciated. George Kriemadis Tel: +44-800-9179305, Fax: +44-845-2803452, email: operations@springfieldmarine.com

My father escaped from occupied Greece and joined the free forces in the Middle East. His commandant at the training school in England back in 1928 was what to become later, as Marshal of the Royal Air Force the Lord Tedder. After his arrival in Egypt he found that all staff positions at RHAF HQ were occupied and he then joined the RAFVR (at the request of his ex commandant). His career followed an interesting twist which ended with him becoming the commander of all RHAF squadrons (three) and took them from Egypt, to Italy and returned them to a Liberated Greece. In 1948 he was awarded the OBE for his service with the RAFVR. I would have liked to learn more about his action and his work with the RAF and for that I would much appreciate if anybody can suggest anything to pursue my research to the right direction even if outside help need to be hired.


Request 551.    Posted 3 Feb 2008

I ASK SOME INFORMATION ABOUT A B25 MITCHELL (Vickers Wellington?!) CRASHED ON 19 NOVEMBER 1944 AT 14.25 IN NORTH OF ITALY NEAR TRENTO IN NON VALLEY.

REGARDS

CIPRIANO ZANONI


Request 550.    Posted 2 Feb 2008

I am wondering if anyone remembers my great uncle Charlie Wilshaw who was stationed at Manston in WW11. He married Winifred M Simmonds in 1939 in Kent . Charlie (or Charles) came from Denton Manchester. His name had been Charlie Greenhalgh but had been adopted after his mother died in 1918. If anyone can remember him I would love to hear from them.

Best wishes

Sheila Bruntnell


Request 549.    Posted 2 Feb 2008

I'm looking for anyone who was stationed at RAF Wittering in August 1960 My dad was stationed there then, I'm looking for people who might remember the crash of a Valiant BK1 XD864, please help as I am trying to find out what happened.

Richard Howard


Request 548.    Posted 27 Jan 2008

In 1940 my father, Squadron Leader D M T Macdonald (known to his friends as Mac and to his family as Calum) served with the Bomber Command HQ as part of the Advanced Air Striking Force, based near Rheims in France. As it was the Phoney War he had time enough to paint the mural (pictured below) of fellow RAF officers on the wall of a chalk cave. My family are trying to find out if anyone knows the officers in the picture. Of course the Phonye War ended in May 1940 and, according to one history, the squadrons of Fairey Battles were "decimated" and everyone had to limp back home to England. My father’s full RAF career is outlined elsewhere on this website at http://www.rafweb.org/Biographies/Macdonald_DMT.htm, which is great but of course there are gaps in his details, so any further information would be gratefully received.

Picture by D M T Macdonald


Request 547.    Posted 20 Jan 2008

We are trying to track down information about Lt Col Santos Cassani (he was South African). We want to know about his military life well we know he was in ww1 but we don't know if he was in ww2 (so we want to know squadrons, where he was stationed etc..) He was my great, great, great uncle so I never knew him. He was a famous man but I can't find out much about him so if anyone can help, please could you e-mail me using the link above.  Thanks!


Request 546.    Posted 20 Jan 2008

I am trying to trace anyone who came across my father during the war, Sgt. Kenneth Fenton from Drax, Yorkshire. He started his training at No.3 Recuit Centre, RAF Padgate then moved onto No.1 Receiving wing, No 4 initial training wing, 51 Group pool and No.2 Service Flying training school, Brize Norton where he was part of No 56 intake. He served in 13 Operational Training Unit (No 32 course) before being sent to 139 Squadron at Horsham St. Faith in June 1941, part of 2 Bomber Group.

He was shot down in his Blenheim on 1st July 1941 and spent the rest of the war as a POW in Dulag Luft, Stalag IXc, Bad Sulza, Stalag Luft 3, Sagan, Stalag Luft 6, Hyderkrug and then Stalag 357 at Thorn and then Fallenbostal. His crew were Sgt. Alan Andrew Fuller from Lingfield and Sgt. Robert William McDonald from Dunton Green, Sevenoaks. 

I have researched many details but would like to hear from anyone who could add anything.  Regards, Nick


Request 545.    Posted 16 Jan 2008

I am looking for my grandfather who was with the RCAF and was stationed in Sussex/Kent in 1939-1943.  He would have been billeted in Wadhurst or very near by.  I only have his name and that I believe he was French Canadian and that he went back to Canada in 1943? I have posted 100 letters to Canada, to people listed in the phone directory with the same surname, just 200 more to go, I am keeping my fingers crossed.  It is unlikely that he is still alive, but I am hoping his relatives can give me some information about him, if they were told of my fathers birth, I was only told his name 2 weeks ago.  If anyone anywhere can give me any info no matter how small, [where the barracks were, what squadron he was in] that would be great. Thank you for taking the time to read this.  His name was HAROLD LANGFORD approx age between 18-25 I think maybe a little older thank you I know its a long shot Debs 


Request 544.    Posted 16 Jan 2008

I AM LOOKING FOR MY FATHER. I DO NOT HAVE MUCH INFORMATION TO GO ON REALLY.  I BELIEVE MY FATHERS NAME TO BE FREDERICK, AND HE WAS STATIONED AT BENTWATERS, SUFFOLK AIRBASE IN 1953. MY MOTHERS NAME IS ELSIE CLARK, AND LIVED IN FELIXSTOWE AT THE TIME. COULD YOU PLEASE POST THIS ON YOUR GUEST BOOK JUST IN CASE? I WOULD BE EVER SO GRATEFUL. MANY THANKS, TERRI LYNN CLARK AGED 53

Picture of Terri Lynn Clark and her mother


Request 543.    Posted 16 Jan 2008

We're writing a book about WW II, particularly the Falaise Pocket in Normandy. We are interested in speaking to someone regarding the RAF's armed recce missions and the "cab rank" system that was used then. Would you be able to lead us in the right direction or put us in touch with someone who can help us?

Our best hope is to speak to a veteran who participated in those battles in August, 1944. If that is not possible, we would be very grateful if we could interview a historian or anyone else who is knowledgeable about those topics.

Thank you so much for your time and kind attention. Best regards, Libio Calejo and Aubyn WIlliams


Request 542.    Posted 5 Jan 2008

We are trying to trace Michael McGivern who was stationed in England during 1942-1946. He was with the Canadian Air Force stationed in Yorkshire. North of Leeds. While it is possible he is now deceased we would like to trace any relatives or descendants that he may have.

Thank You

Catharine Gordon (Mother Eileen) 


Request 541.    Posted 5 Jan 2008

On last day of June 2008, the Escadron de chasse 1/30 "ALSACE", which began as the GC1 then 341 Free French Squadron will be disbanded. An important ceremony will take place on the Base Aérienne (airfield) 132 at Colmar. Many veterans will be invited to commemorate this occasion.

From 1943 the Servicing Echelon was manned by British personnel. French personnel were only pilots, the doctor or clerks. Does anyone know if any British ex-ground-crew are still alive and wishing to be in touch with the Escadron Alsace?  If so, please contact Bertrand:

hgtb341atnetcourrier.com (replace AT and with @)s

We are also seeking to find the following or their next of kin where they are deceased: Lt O-L. DAY then F/O MOORAT as Adjutant, F/O GODDARD as Technical Officer, P/O MAZUREK and T.S. SAMUEL as Intelligence Officer, F/Sgt NICKSON J. 1433140, W/O ROBERTS, POW 30/03/45, Sgt WILLIAMS Garfield,1653584, KIA 14/03/1945, Sgt DONOVAN Francis,1804364, KIA 03/05/45, P/O WILLIAMS, Ralph , 189383, KIFA 06/12/1945 and Sgt WOLLOSHIN, Gabriel,1569246, KIA 01/04/45 are also welcomed.

Many thanks,


Request 540.    Posted 5 Jan 2008

I am looking for information on Flying Officer Corran Perry Ashworth, RNZAF and RAF,  b. 25 September 1921, d. 3 August 1944.  He flew with 14, 32, 403 and 65 Squadrons and was based near Oissel, France at the time of his death He flew Spitfires and Mustangs and was good friends of fellow Kiwi, Johnnie Houlton. I have a site at www.corranashworth.info and would appreciate any further information. Thanks.


Request 539.    Posted 27 Dec 2007

I am looking for information about my father “Kevin Hector Woods” who served in No1 wing, No1 R.T.C. Walton Lahore as a member of the permanent staff 1945

I don’t really know much about his time there except that he did quite well at boxing as I have a couple of his trophies. I do have some photographs with names of other personnel listed below

Cpl Milnes JE, Sgt Harrison T, P/O Deo VM (Adjt), F/Lt Shrimpton JBW (OC), F/Sgt James HJP (WWO), Sgt Adlam WG, Sgt Spray W, Cpl James CD, Cpl Lee PE, Cpl Burton GW, Cpl Smith A, Cpl Woods KH (my father), CPL smith AH, Cpl Dyson H, Cpl Singh E, Cpl Shah, A/C Despende, Cpl Khan MI, Cpl Khan GM, Ishar (young boy), Whiskey (dog)  

Any help would be appreciated.

Many thanks

David William Woods


Request 538.    Posted 27 Dec 2007

This is a long shot but really worth a try!  I am looking for anyone who was a student with the University Air Sqaudron in Cambridge during the Summer of 1947 and who may have attended the Kings College Hospital ball.  Even if you were not but have some tips or information on how I can advance my search, please can you contact me at fabienne.baileyATdurham.gov.uk.  Thank you for your support.  This is very important to me.


Request 537.    Posted 27 Dec 2007

Our children’s charity is based at the former Bushey Hall at Bushey in Hertfordshire. We organise an extensive ww2 history and Evacuee experience using some of the original WW2 buildings at the site. The original hall has gone however.

We are keen to hear from any veterans who have any memories of being at Bushey Hall. Visit our website at www.lincolnsfields.co.uk for information


Request 536.    Posted 27 Dec 2007

I was a wireless operator with 285 wing desert air force from 1943-1945 would like to get in touch with any of my old comrades

Monty Fish


Request 535.    Posted 16 Dec 2007

I am trying to contact any one who knew my uncle Robert Edward (Bert or Bertie) Blair who was killed on operations in Italy on 4 January 1944.  He was an air gunner flying with 114 squadron in a Boston MK 111, serial no AL678 based in Foggia.  The rest of the crew were also killed - P J Hermolle, H L James and J Richardson and all are buried in the Moro River Cemetery near Pescara in eastern Italy.
 
Any information at all will be gratefully received
 
Fred Hunter
(Nephew)


Request 534.    Posted 16 Dec 2007

Does anyone know what happened to the following officers who were at RAF Patrington around 1953/5?

Sqd. Ldr. Watt, Flt. Lt. Davison, F/O  "Slim" Rose, P/O  Wilkes?

Others around that time were Flt Lts. Gunning, Jeyes, Stromquist and it would be interesting to know what became of them.     Mike Clutten.


Request 533.    Posted 8 Dec 2007

Request answered and removed.


Request 532.    Posted 1 Dec 2007

I would be most grateful if anyone who knew my late father would have any information regarding his  withdrawal from Malaya when the Japanese invaded. He never would talk about his experiences from that period, all the family knows is that after being posted missing, nothing was heard  untill18 months later when he was in India. I have read accounts of personnel getting to Singapore and then a ship to India but my mother believed my father went north .The following details are vague as a lot of documents were lost. Sergeant Percy Richards with 60 or 62 Squadron based at either Alor Star or Butterworth station.
I would like to hear from anyone who was with him or based with him at this time.

Thank you.

Michael Richards.


Request 531.    Posted 1 Dec 2007

I am looking for anyone that served with my father in the Royal Canadian Air Force during WW2.  Below is the best of my information.

Jack Hodgkinson

Ontario, Canada

1922-1999

Piloted DC3’s in Burma delivering supplies  (Hump Pilot)

Came back to Canada and got into banking

Married Olive Faber @ 1947


Request 530.    Posted 1 Dec 2007 - removed 3 May 2008

 


Request 529.    Posted 25 Nov 2007

I would be interested in hearing from anyone who knows anything of 196 Squadron as it was in 1942, and also No 42 O T U Ashbourne in 1942.   My father, H. G. Cannon, aka "Gil Cannon DFC" was a member of both.  He was a rear-gunner.


Request 528.    Posted 18 Nov 2007

I am with a small Royal Canadian Legion in Western Canada and we are trying to obtain info on the following Serviceman for part of a memorial.

Flight Sergeant William Jamison

612 Sqdn

Born Belfast 09/02/16

Parents William and Mary Jamison

KIA Dec 25/41

Any info would be appreciated also any info on surviving family members.  Thank you ...Vern Graham


Request 527.    Posted 18 Nov 2007

Hi, we are hoping to find information about my Father, Keith Proctor who was based at RAF Linton-on-Ouse in the mid to late fifties.  We know that he flew both Meteor and Hunter aircraft with what we believe to be 245 squadron.  Any information on his time spent here would be greatly appreciated.  Thank you


Request 526.    Posted 13 Nov 2007

Hi, I am looking for any info on Peter Ross Hope born 1924 and died in 1943.  All I know is he was a member of the RAF. He was the son of Elsie Parry and Sidney Herbert Hope. Any information would be gratefully received.


Request 525.    Posted 13 Nov 2007

RAF; Folly, Hayscastle Cross, Warren and any chain home radar sites in Pembrokeshire

I am researching the above sites and will be pleased to receive any info, stories, pictures or pictures. I have contacted the last person to advertise on this site a few years ago, but need some fresh impetus. I am aware of the usual sources and have scoured the internet. thanks. Mike Bennett


Request 524.    Posted 13 Nov 2007

I have a letter written to Flight Officer McJannett, my father, on 3 June 1946 by a Cpl. Evans 538098 from M.T. Section at the R.A.F. Station in Pembroke Dock. The letter was to thank my father for helping Cpl. Evans out of a sticky situation but had a P.S. telling him he had won 2/6 in the St. Dunstan's draw.

I don't want to claim the prize (!) but if any one recognizes himself or a member of their family I'd be happy to send them the original.


Request 523.    Posted 13 Nov 2007

A close friend, AC2 Cadet Pilot Derek Emerson, was in 22 SFTS between May to August 1945. If any fellow members of 22 SFTS remember him, particularly James Crisp, please let me know.


Request 522.    Posted 10 Nov 2007

My second cousin, John James Clifton, was a Sgt WOP/air gunner with 150 squadron based at Snaith. His aircraft, a Wellington III X3674 JN-H, was shot down on the night of 5/6th June 1942 while on a raid to Essen. The aircraft came down at Benschop near Utrecht and he is buried at Amersfoot cemetry, Netherlands. The other crew members were: Sgt. G.F.G. Bonner (wop/airgnr) Sgt. H.R. Camfield (pilot) Fl.sgt. J.R. Cooper (wop/airgnr) Fl.sgt. T. Kay (pilot) Fl.sgt. A.D. Robert (observer I would appreciate any information/photographs any one may have on Snaith, 150 squadron at the time or the incident in question. Thank you very much Andrew Clifton


Request 521.    Posted 10 Nov 2007

I am trying to find out more information about the MISSING RESEARCH & ENQUIRIES SERVICE (variously MR&EU, MR&E, MRES, MREU), that my grandfather was attached to (Roger Rackham, No. 16 unit).  He qualified just before the War's end as a Lancaster Bomb Aimer, and was assigned to No. 61 Squadron at RAF Skellingthorpe in 1945, and was then assigned to the MRES.

I've been unable to find much information at all about the service, but have received some from Stuart Hadaway at the RAF museum (he has a book in publication on the service, due out March 2008).

Is there anyone who served with this service/unit who may have known my grandfather? (either from 61 Sqdn or No. 16 MRES).

I would be very grateful for information either on fellow servicemen or the unit/service itself.

Thank you very much,

Dr Anthony Butcher


Request 520.    Posted 4 Nov 2007

I am looking for more information about the crash of Lancaster Mk3 EE167of No 460 Squadron near Schinveld /Holland in the night of 14/15 June 1943.  From the crew of seven 5 died and were temporarily buried in Venlo and after the war in Jonkerbos/Nijmegen.  The bomber came from Air Base Binbrook/Lincolnshire.  Two men survived and were captured.  Their names are E. Booth and W.R. Matheson.  As far as I know all crewmembers were Australian.  Can somebody help me with a photograph of the crew especially of flight sergeant Donald Scott Finlason who's grave I adopted during the period he was buried at the temporary cemetery in Venlo.


Request 519.    Posted 4 Nov 2007

My father, sergeant/pilot L. Joseph Morsheimer (1918-2000) joined the RAF via RCAF.  He delivered two Spitfires to Malta from the HMS Eagle in May and June of 1942.  I am commissioning a painting to honor this event and signed and numbered, limited edition prints will be GIVEN, FREE to 611 squadron, 126 sqn and 185 sqn pilots who still survive or their families so that they, like my Dad, are never forgotten.  I need help identifying and validating these families. 

Also, it would be very helpful to the artist if we can find some descriptions of the flight operations on deck during launch such as who was on deck doing what, as well as what uniforms and badges they were wearing.  We have some pictures of Spitfires on the Eagle, but any additional pictures or descriptions would be helpful.  We've had furious debates over camouflage schemes, as an example, and are just now focusing on the HMS Eagle sailors. 

I expect the artist to begin this in a couple of weeks and finish two months after that.  Anyone who provides material help will receive a free print.  My intent is that this will become a living memorial that is shared.  My Dad left his home in 1940, before his country was at war, to share his fate with you.  I am reaching across the Atlantic in a different way to honor our shared memories of our fathers and their contribution to our freedom. 

Respectfully,

Fred Morsheimer
Amherst, NH USA


Request 518.    Posted 4 Nov 2007

I am preparing a book on tributes to Victoria Cross recipients and would be very pleased to hear from anyone who could let me know of any RAF station buildings (such as accommodation blocks) or roads that were named after any of the following air VCs:

Aaron, Ball, Barker, Barton, Bazalgette, Beauchamp-Proctor, Bell-Davies, Bishop, Campbell, Cheshire, Cruickshank, Edwards, Esmonde, Garland, Gibson, Gray, Hannah, Hawker, Hornell, Insall, Jackson, Jerrard, Learoyd, Liddell, Lord, McCudden, McLeod, McNamara, Mannock, Manser, Middleton, Mottershead, Mynarski, Nettleton, Newton, Nicolson, Palmer, Rees, Reid, Rhodes-Moorhouse, Robinson, Scarf, Swales, Thompson, Trent, Trigg, Ward, Warneford and West.

Many thanks for any help.  Alan Jordan (ex-RAF, 1963-74)


Request 517.    Posted 27 Oct 2007

Looking for a Roger J Boucher possibly from Massachuettes, served at R.A.F Sealand and then at Burtonwood in the late 1950s. Any info would be very much appreciated. Roger would be about 70 years now.


Request 516.    Posted 18 Oct 2007

We are trying to find history of Squadron Leader Terry Lockwood based at Church Fenton, Bawtry and Naples, lived in Carlton near Goole, please reply any info through link above


Request 515.    Posted 10 Oct 2007

Could anyone from number 2 sqn  5 flight,  June 1980, give me any info on Corp Boisell, Sgt North or Flying Officer Decamps,  email me at daryltaylorATblueyonder.co.uk

Also Paul Sylvester from Halesowen if you see this plz contact me


Request 514.    Posted 7 Oct 2007

Accident to Avro Anson NK607 of 34 Wing Support Unit (?) 29SEP1944 at or near Alderstead Heath, Dean Lane, Merstham, Surrey (about 3 miles north of Redhill, on the North Downs). 5 of 5 occupants killed, including 2 Wing Commanders, one of whom (R B Cox) was the CO of 34 WSU. A/C was probably based Northolt and may have been transporting the 2 senior officers to France or Belgium. Little information is available locally.

One report suggests it hit a tree on this relatively high ground in fog, losing part of a wing; another that it had structural failure (there had been a number of Anson wing failures in 1943, leading to an investigation at the RAE). The accident Investigation Precis-reports for 1944 (all A/C types) are nearly all missing from the National Archive at Kew. 

The family of the Canadian navigator were given the impression that the accident was caused by crew error. I would like to know why.

Having seen a small-scale surface-pressure chart and from my understanding of contemporary procedures, it looks as if altimeter mis-setting is fairly unlikely to have been a factor in this accident. Airframe icing is a possibility, so I intend to look at the Met Office archives in the hope of discounting it. But I need the accident report.

Any information or suggestions would be appreciated,

Chris Scott


Request 513.    Posted 6 Oct 2007

I am trying news of a  pilot R.A.F crash  to 11 September 1944 in the Po Valley and just to Spinadesco. I know the history of the incident perhaps but the pilot was not Neo Zeland and perhaps he piloted a P47.

If you have an answer  they are pleasing.
Thank you


Request 512.    Posted 30 Sep 2007

I am researching the above named Spitfire Pilot who was killed whilst attempting to land his shot-up aircraft at Rochford, Essex on 14 September 1940 during the Battle of Britain.

Any information anyone may have in relation to Sgt Baxter or even his descendent family members would be very much appreciated.


Request 511.    Posted 29 Sep 2007

A member of the War Widows Association of Great Britain is desperate to meet anyone who knew her late husband

His name was Philip Van Rhodes, was 600 Squadron RAFVR City of London, died 18 February 1944.

If anyone can help please contact me through the link above.


Request 510.    Posted 29 Sep 2007

My great friend from school days in the U K was a Spit pilot in the Royal Australian Air Force.  He joined as a Sgt Pilot early in the war and was shot down on, perhaps, his first operational flight and was intensely burned facially and elsewhere, probably.

His name was JUM FALKINER., A well-known name in Oz, for sure.

After being shot down on his first operational flight I think it was, he was shifted from one P O W camp to another for the rest of the war.  After being released he was sent to Doc. MacInroe’s Burn Center and Hospital in the U K.  Due to his wounds he was never able to escape as he would have been too obvious, though he assisted in many.

Most sadly, I learned from his wife Anita, near Melbourne, that he died recently and I’d be delighted to hear if anyone remembers him, when and where, and would be glad to let Anita know, if so.

Thank you.

Michael Wynne-Willson

RAFVR. 89625.


Request 509 - answered and removed


Request 508.    Posted 22 Sep 2007

I know that it is not exactly RAF orientated but has anybody who passed through Loughborough College of Aeronautics between 1945 and 1960 got any photos of the Grumman Martlet Mk.I (serialled AL246) which resided there between these dates?  

It is currently under restoration at the Fleet Air Arm Museum and museum staff are keen to know what colours and markings were worn by their Martlet before they received it and so any help, be it photos or recollections would be most warmly received.

All the best  Tony O`Toole


Request 507.    Posted 22 Sep 2007

My name is Didier Jadot from Belgium. I intend writing a book about 630 Squadron between 1943 and 1945 and I would like to ask everybody that has any bit of information about this squadron to contact me. This book has the ambition of rerouping the histories and fates of the most possible crews that served there in East Kirkby, but also to make an accurate description and narration of everyday life and fear in those days..
Photographs, notes, newspapers clips, logbook extracts etc EVERYTHING is welcome.
This book is thought to be a sort of memorial to keep alive the sacrifice of the brave airmen of 630 Squadron, and a possibility of achieving a personal dream in tribute to a family member who died  june 22nd 1944,with his entire crew while serving there, on LE-U.


Request 506.    Posted 22 Sep 2007

Searching for any information on Howard McDermott, a Canadian who served with the RAF or RCAF at RAF Leeming during WW2. Believed to have returned to Ontario (but not sure) then married and had 3 children. Had a sister called "Bunny" and possiby died aged 50-60.

Thanks

Mark


Request 505.    Posted 16 Sep 2007

We are looking for all related info about Ferdynand Mazulis RAF P-2130 OR F/O O-782565.  He was part of the 307 Polish Night Fighter Squadron in 1941 and part of 305 Polish Bomber Squadron in 1945.  Any relatives, friend, picture, documents, history, stories, data is relevant for us


Request 504.    Posted 16 Sep 2007

I help run Holme on Spalding Moor Village website and we are currently updating our pages on those who served on the airfield. Would anyone like to send information regarding their time there.

Cheers, Chris


Request 503.    Posted 1 Sep 2007

I am current compiling the second of two books on railways in the Southampton area, and one such location is at RAF Calshot where a narrow gauge railway ran from Calshot Spit to Eaglehurst Camp. As well as moving freight and materials, the railway operated a passenger timetable over the line during its existence from 1913 until being finally broken up in 1949. I have most of the history but what I sorely lack are photographs of the line in action (or even out of action!).

If it is possible, may I ask if any of your contacts have any such photographic mementoes or postcards of the subject that I might be able to borrow or have copied.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Yours sincerely,

Dave Marden


Request 502.    Posted 25 Aug 2007

I am looking for any information regarding F/O. Gordon Kenneth Pickering DFC- SR80380- 142 Squadron RAF. Southern Rhodesian He was a Bomb Aimer who flew most of his raids with P/O Etchells. DFC.

Crew: Wellington III

F/O. J. Etchells – Pilot

Sgt. L.A. Ding – Navigator

F/Sgt.B.Shaver- W/Operator

F/O G.K.Pickering- B/Aimer

Sgt.J.McDonald-Rear Gunner

Flew in Wellington III   DF693, DH 708, Wellington “E”

Any photo’s or information regarding the above crew would be appreciated.

Thanks

Clive Dicks

Australia


Request 501.    Posted 12 Aug 2007

I am the son of Ben Perrick/Perritt, I'm 62 and would like to know if his still alive. he came from Sioux Falls, South Dakota.  My mother's name was Phylis Brown from Norwich, Norfolk, UK.  Sadly my mother passed away 10 years ago.  I have a letter asking her to go and live with him but it meant leaving two of her childern behind and she would not do that.  It would be nice if there where other relatives still a live

I know he was stationed at (Horsham) St Faith air base Norwich, Norfolk


Request 500.    Posted 12 Aug 2007

I am trying to trace the whereabouts, or relatives of one Douglas Muir, who served in the RAF in Bulawayo, Rhodesia, circa 1940 - 1943. He was a friend of my wife's parents, and I would like to know whether he still alive (Doubtful?), but if passed on where he was buried, and where he lived after the 2nd world war and indeed what happened to him.

Thanks,

Rob Hopkins


Request 499.    Posted 12 Aug 2007

Hello, my uncle died on the 21/7/2007 of a heart attack. leaving behind a few brothers and a son who suffers autism. I'm his nephew ex Royal Australian Navy. My uncle died in sheltered accom.

I found out he was in The RAF National Service around 1953-55. Here is his info: -

Ben Charles Wardle born 13 Sept 1934. I need help on his o/n and any one that might have known him. I know he was at Luffenham and Kirkham. He is being cremated and his ashes are being placed with his twin brothers who died in the Royal Navy in Woodston  Peterborough. If any one could help it would be appreciated. It would be nice to have someone from the RAF their at the laying of the ashes.

Thanks to you all.

Frank Wardle 


Request 498.    Posted 5 Aug 2007

I am trying to trace Taffy Morgan from the Bridgend Porttalbot area ,he was based at Ringway Manchester 1945 .he was a friend of the family .Does anyone remember him  please would you let us know


Request 497.    Posted 5 Aug 2007

This is a long shot but my Grandmother passed away last year and for the fifty two of my Mothers life my Grandmother never told her who her, or any of her family who her father was. Only after her death we have found out from a change meeting that she was seeing a Canadian based at RAF Burtonwood for a long period during and around the time of my mothers birth, who was married. The only name I have is that his second name was "Johnson" or "Johnston".

I have tried the Burtonwood site and other Canadian Veterans sites but have been unable to locate a list of serviceman based at Burtonwood at this time 1950 - 1953 If anyone can help me it would be greatly appreciated.

Regards

Mark Wilson


Request 496.    Posted 29 Jul 2007

I would like help in tracing F/Sgt D.B.Smith Service no: 1451568 who flew with 600 Sqdn 1942 onwards from:  ex: WAAF Micky McKeevor


Request 495.    Posted 21 Jul 2007

I would be most grateful for any information concerning my uncle Jack Wallis who flew with 236 Sdn from those who flew with him.


Request 494.    Posted 21 Jul 2007

A WW2 RAF gas mask container was bought at auction in the USA a long while ago.  The owner wants badly to try and find the person who owned it, originally, or his/her family, as evidenced by the writing and RAF logo written thereon and covered by the flap, so that it may be returned.  The only  information on the bag is as follows:

Sgt. H A COCKBURN.       #  1567216.

 Under the above is a rough drawing of R A F Wings with "R A F" underneath and the whole encircled in ink, also.

If anyone can throw any light on this, or provide me with follow-up ideas better to persue this request of a friend, I’d be more than grateful.  If the beg was mine I’d be thrilled to have it back after, probably, about 62 years!

Michael F. Wynne-Willson. 89625

R A F V R. (Retd:)


Request 493.    Posted 21 Jul 2007

I am looking for any information available regarding pilot Peter Bevin from Clyde New Zealand, MIA during WW2 in Greece.

Andrew K.


Request 492.    Posted 21 Jul 2007

My mothers uncle died on the 7th November 1942 and is buried in St.John's, Coulsdon Surrey.  All I  know from my mother is he trained in Canada.  His details are as follows.

Sergeant Ronald Sydney Horsley (Pilot)   Squadron 224   1377433  Died 7th November 1942   RAF war grave 538

I would be very interested if anyone could give me any more information on him , he was born in 1911 and married Ethel and had two children Malcolm and Anne and lived in Tollers Lane, Old Coulsdon.

Thanking you in anticipation.

Carolyn Dare


Request 491.    Posted 21 Jul 2007

My late father, Reg (George) Young (later Sgt) was initially trained (1942-44) at Locking, 1617 Flight Training Unit, Halton, Messrs Napier & Sons (engines) and no 71 Maintenance Unit before being posted to Ceylon in Nov 1944. Most of his time was with No 145 Repair & Service Unit and the Air Headquarters Colombo. I think he was mainly involved with ground-crew training etc. Does anyone remember him, or a colleague called Tom Scott, or have relatives who were posted there? Can you tell me where the unit was based? I think it was near Mount Lavinia on the west coast.  I have some photographs of him, colleagues in the  ground-crew soccer team etc!  Any information would be welcomed.

Thanks

Brian W Young
Werribee VIC 3024
Australia


Request 490.    Posted 15 Jul 2007

I served in the RAF from 1952-1954, my main camp was RAF Folly Roch in Pembrokeshire where I was a Radar Operator.

My details are as follows as they were then:

SAC Alan Vinegrad (2557333)

I am a retired Printer living in Leeds and would like to hear from anyone who was at that camp


Request 489.    Posted 8 Jul 2007

Ref: 103 Squadron @ RAF Elsham Wolds 1944

I would like to contact anyone (or any relatives of) who may have flown with my Grandfather -54597 Pilot Officer Cecil Harold 'Denny' Ogden DFC, flying Lancasters with 103 Squadron based at Elsham Wolds, Lincolnshire.  He flew 27 sorties between March and July 1944, until his death, and that of his crew, shot down by night-fighter during the 2nd Revigny raid, 15th July 44, in Lancaster NE136 PM-L for London (he previously flew JB278 PM-L which he was forced to ditch in the sea off the Kent Coast following the Karlsruhe raid of 24/25th april 44).

Many thanks,

Alison Nicholson (nee Ogden)


Request 488.    Posted 1 Jul 2007

Re: 224 Squadron on Tiree – WW2

This may not be a 224 Squadron query but I’m wondering if there is anyone from the squadron, or perhaps a colleague who was based on Tiree, who may be able to shed some light on the following query:-

Tiree was a main RAF base during the war but, ‘next door’, on the Isle of Coll there was a recognised grass strip at Feall (pronounced “Foil”).   About halfway along the strip and just a few yards away from it is a  large stone (say 10ft high and about 15-20ft in diameter).  The stone was painted on top with an RAF roundel, this apparently as a marker to the strip.   I checked it out again this year and most paint has now weathered away but there is still some red right on top.   There is also a rusty bolt cemented on top right in the middle – for what purpose, I wonder. 

I wonder if anyone recalls the stone, actually painting it, or using it as a marker and, more especially, why RAF planes landed on Coll – assuming that they did.  I have very recent pictures of the stone and the airstrip and would be glad to e-mail them to interested parties.

The remaining indigenous population have reasonable recollections of the roundel and at least one male remembers planes landing.

Any info’ would be most welcome.


Request 487.    Posted 1 Jul 2007

I am looking for information about my father Geoffrey Royston Griggs, who was a rear gunner during the war but in 1949/50 he was I think station officer at Jurby airfield on the Isle of Man. My sister was born in Jurby they lived in a house called The Villa. I would also like to trace Cynthia Bessant who worked with him (I think she was civilian admin assistant). My father was later flight Lieutenant Griggs.


Request 486.    Posted 1 Jul 2007

I am trying to locate photographs or newspaper clippings of the RCAF 431 "Iroquois" Squadron - aircrew, ground crew, (RAF & RCAF), any of the aircraft they flew - Wellington, Halifaxes or Lancasters, and any pictures of Croft Aerodrome buildings, etc. 1943-45.

My father (now deceased), was the pilot of Lancaster KB -859, coded SE-U, and was shot down over Hamburg March 31, 1945. He was the only survivor of the crew and was a POW at Stalag Luft 1.

Any help would be most appreciated.

Cheers - Bruce Hurley (Ontario, Canada)


Request 485.    Posted 24 Jun 2007

I am an aviation historian writing the definitive history of the Chipmunk aircraft and after fifty years research am wishing to publish this work in conjunction with several other specialists from Canada, Portugal and Australia probably early in 2008.

I would appreciate contact with anyone who flew this type especially the University and Reserve Flying Schools era 1950-1974 and am looking for photos to include in the RAF Reservists section of the book. Also looking for material for the Rhodesian Air Training Group period 1950-1954.

Rod Brown    CFI Denham School of Flying

www.chipmunkflyer.co.uk


Request 484.    Posted 24 Jun 2007

Bunny Lewis was my father and was killed on 4th Feb 1943 whilst flying Beaufighter JL454. His observer was P/O AHA Treadwell/. They were on reconnaissance over Southern Norway. I think they flown from either North Coates or Wick.

I would love to hear from anyone who has knowledge of either of them or those airfields at that time.

Tony Lewis.


Request 483.    Posted 17 Jun 2007

I am looking for anybody who knew my Father, Wing Commander Ronald Roumieu Thomson DFC. His plane came down in Northern Italy and he is buried at Udine War Cemetry. One member of the crew survived the crash, Flight Lieutenant J W Robb, DFC.  They were in Squadron 114.

My Father was a volunteer, and joined the Air Force at the beginning of the war. He may have been in Squadron 13 for a short period of time.  Information about the crash or personal  anecdotes from any of his friends, would be nice. 

I am his eldest daughter, Fiona Butler and can be contacted by email using the link above.


Request 482 removed as it has now been answered.


Request 481.    Posted 3 Jun 2007

I have a handful of photographs which belonged to my late uncle, Alan Whalley, who was with RAF ground staff from age 18, in 1942 to at least 1947. All were taken in various locations in India - Cawnpore 1945, Sidrapong 1946, Darjeeling 1946-7, Juhu Beach Bombay 1947, RMS Andes from Bombay to Southampton Feb-March 1947.

He was in Mechanical Engineering from at least 1945 and probably before that. One photograph is of him as a Sergeant with his Mech Eng co-instructor, Flt. Lt. Gilbey, in Sidrapong October 1946 and one is of the Machine Shop Team, Winners of the Inter-Section Cup 1945/46 (football).

Other photographs give a few clues - Station Football Team, No. 11 Hill Depot, Darjeeling 1947; 202 Hut Cawnpore 1945. A few of the photographs are dated, and many have the names of his colleagues listed on the back, but unfortunately there is no detail regarding his home Station or Unit name - if anyone knows any more about the India or UK stations or remembers him I'd be very pleased to hear from them.

This particular uncle had a very quirky sense of humour; for some reason I have never quite been able to fathom, he sometimes referred to himself as "Jansen" or "Jansen Spreedle". This must be some private joke - or else it is some RAF thing/radio comedy thing of which I am not aware. I am hoping this may ring a bell with someone...

Here is the list of what I have in the way of photos, and if anyone finds they have a link to anyone, I am happy to scan the photo and e-mail it.

Cawnpore 1945- Harry Miles, Vic, Jim Evans, Bill Mayfield, Dick Eames Cawnpore 1945, 202 Hut - Len (prob. Len Mills), Frank, Nobby, Arthur Norman, Brummy Bert (prob. Armstrong), Ginger (prob. Irving) & Alby Machine Shop Team, Winners of Inter-Section Cup 1945/46

Sidrapong October 1946 - Sgt. Jim Dabock Sidrapong October 1946 - Flt Lt Gilbey Darjeeling 1946 - Art Whitehead

Darjeeling 1947 - Smudge, Hiram B, Tom Davies Darjeeling 1947 - Ben Woods, Hiram B, Tommy Davies Darjeeling 1947 Station football team, No. 11 Hill Depot (Hiram B may have only been a nickname, not certain)

Bombay 1947, Jubu Beach - Jim Morrison, Gin Irving and Taffy Bombay 1947, Jubu Beach - Harry Peck, Jim Morrison, Gin Irving and Taffy

RMS Andes, Bombay-Southampton Feb-March 1947 Andes 1947 - Harry Peck Andes 1947 - Jim Morrison Andes 1947 - Ginger Irving

Personnel in undated photographs sometime between 1945-47, India:

Wacker Anderson; Bert Armstrong; Patch Armstrong; Bill Battrick; Paddy Becket; ........... Bolton; Tich Chester; Reg de la Pole; Bert Godden; Dave Jennings; Reg Law; .......... McKendry; ......... Mc Kinnon; Len Mills; Dave Oddie (from Blackburn); Cpl. Rose; Ned Semple (from Poguestown, Larne, C.

Antrim); Bern Septhon; Harry Tallis; Tommy Walker; Chalkie White; Eric Whittle ; Geordie Wilson; ......... Wytcherley.

Thompson & Wilson with Paddy in the centre The Machine Shop Tug of War Team

Other photo captions that may jog a memory or two, same time, same place:

"This is "K Ration and pet water buffalo, at the moment it is painted to represent a Blighty bound tin trunk"

"The Himalayan Railway from Siliguri to Darjeeling"

"Memorial in Lucknow, about 500 years old. It is called Mukbara of Kibir Bagh"

"These people are some of the starving millions of Madras Presidency. They were eating food which we had previously thrown out as bad, onto the cinders"

"By the camp at Jalapahar, Darjeeling, Oct 1946"

"The Machine Shop Fruit Wallah"

"Brickworks behind the camp"

"The Lido Pool and Restaurant, Cawnpore, India 1945"

"Guess Who, with Kanchenjunga on the extreme left. India 1947"

"Whalley (from 'ammersmith). Glorious beer! Sidrapong 16.10.46"

"Me in a canoe made from an emergency petrol tank"

Metro Cinema - film showing was "Her Highness and the Bellboy" with Hedy Lamarr, Robert Walker, June Allyson. Possibly Calcutta.

There are also some quite terrifying photographs of one single and one double roofed long building with thatched or grass roof and verandahs, in various stages of going up in flames because the roofs have caught fire.

Single storey building, arched windows, pattern of rows of squares over windows and doors. Corrugated iron lean-to at rear of double building. One photograph looks as though this occurred in a fenced compound - I think this must have been one of the RAF camps.


Request 480.    Posted 27 May 2007

I am trying to contact James Donald who worked for or in the NAAFI at RAF St Athens in 1949/50 he came from the Merseyside area and was good friends with Elizabeth Cooke who worked in the sisters mess on the camp, she had 2 sisters named Dolly and Emily who was married to Tony. Anyone who has any information on either please contact me through the link above.


Request 479.    Posted 13 May 2007

I am trying to see if anyone served with John Bastenn 1943 /45 from Downham Market 

Thank you Mr A J Heath


Request 478.    Posted 11 May 2007

I’m doing research, trying to find survivors of Ian Reginal Ponsford. In 1949 he joined 604 Squadron Royal Auxiliary Air Force, and over the next few years flew Spitfires, Vampires and Meteors.

Can you direct me to any websites where I might post my question and find his survivors? I knew his daughter Sophie when we were both students in Bordeaux, France. I would like to contact her (strictly as a friend).

 Sincerely,

Steve Murphy


Request 477.    Posted 5 May 2007

I am trying to find anyone who knew my father, Robert James Henderson.  I was born in Nassau, Bahamas while he was there as part of the Ferry Command. I never met anyone else born there.

Any help appreciated.

Carroll


Request 476.    Posted 5 May 2007

As a professional Military Historian I am currently conducting research into the Battle of Ceylon 1942 with a view to compiling a definitive article for publication. Although my research on this event is at an advanced stage, I am hoping to make contact with surviving British veterans who witnessed/participated in the defence of Ceylon over Colombo and Trincomalee (April 5th and April 9th 1942, respectively). The following RAF squadrons were heavily involved in the air raids against Japanese aircraft:

Squadrons:

No.11 Squadron (Blenheim)

No. 30 Squadron (Hurricane)

No. 205 Squadron (Catalinas)

No. 258 Squadron (Hurricane)

No. 261 Squadron (Hurricane)

No. 273 Squadron (Fulmar)

No. 788 Squadron (Swordfish)

No. 803 Squadron (Fulmar)

No. 806 Squadron (Fulmar)

I am particularly interested in making contact with any veterans who are still alive and their associations in order to obtain their first hand accounts of the battle.


Request 475.    Posted 5 May 2007

I was a W.A.A.F at R.A.F Chigwell training on the last course of training W.A.A.Fs for balloon operating in 1942-3 I would like to see a picture of the badge of No 4 Balloon Centre Irretimus Hostess = We ensnare our enemies if that is possible Thank you ex W.A.A.F 2132251 J.M.Wright


Request 474.    Posted 5 May 2007

I am looking for any information available regarding pilot Peter Bevin from Clyde New Zealand, MIA during WW2 in Greece.

Andrew K.


Request 473.    Posted 5 May 2007

My name is Ray and I am trying to find any of the lads from 152 Squadron who did their national service or who signed up for a longer stint, lads like Cpl Buggy or Bugsy as we called him and Chalky White and so many others whom I would like to hear from 1954/1957 at Wattisham in Suffolk


Request 472.    Posted 28 Apr 2007

I am researching the service career of my late Father, P/O FRANK VICTOR THOMAS CAIRNS DFC  (1918-2002) No 909970.

First tour was with 58 Sqd, B flight , 4 Group at Leconfield/Linton-on-Ouse flying Whitleys.30 operations completed as W/Op and A/Gn despite the events listed below;19.9.41   Baled out over Harrogate30.4.42   Ditched in North Sea18.10.43  Aircraft crashed 2 miles south of airfield. Engine fire.

Second tour.

466 Sqd RAAF  Driffield. Flying Wellingtons. W/OP and A/Gnr

19 Operations completed, all with Sgt Edward Francis Hicks C.G.M, (LATER P/O HICKS aboard Wellington "N" Nancy. Sgt Hicks earned his C.G.M on 14th April 1943.  My late father left a number of photos, including the attached: -

It shows Wellington "N" Nancy, Sgt E.F. Hicks CGM and my Father, who completed 19 ops on this aircraft with Sgt Hicks.

Left to Right; Sgt Frederick Charles Blair DFM   FSgt H.Fyfe (RAAF)   Sgt Edward Francis Hicks CGM   Unknown   F/O Frank Thomas Victor Cairns DFC  P/O Gordon Musgrove

This photo taken 30 8 43 before the final op of the tour, Munchen Gladbach. operation No B45 Wellington  X   Serial No   HF485.  HD-N   "Nancy"

Second Photo from London Evening Standard, October 14th 1943 titled "Five Men Of A Wellington) Left to Right

P/O F.C.Blair  DFM   F/O Raymond John Hopkins  DSO   P/O E.F.Hicks CGM,DFC   F/O Reginald Francis Clayton  DFC  F/O FTV Cairns DFC

I am most interested to lean more of Sgt Hicks and my Father's crew. Whether they survived the war and whereabouts now if known. The Evening Standard dated 14.10.43 had a photo of the crew and text headed "5 Men Of A Wellington" Crew identified as ;

P/O E. Hicks C.G.M.     Newberry Park, Ilford, Essex

F/O R.F Clayton D.F.C    Carshalton, Surrey

F/O R.J. Hopkins D.S.O.  Hove, West Sussex

P/O Clare     D.F.M.  Belfast, N.Ireland

F/O F.T.V. Cairns    D.FC.   New Barnet, Hertfordshire.

I have a good copy of the newspaper photograph and of the newspaper in addition to other photos of "N" Nancy and Sgt Hick's crew which may interest the families along with my Father's Log Books.

The newspaper and Australian Memorial Archive and others, including the RAFA have all incorrectly identified the crew.

My lengthy research and Father's notes confirm the above.

Crew status to date.

Freddy Blair.  I traced Freddy to Cumbria and have spoken to him several times. Confirms correct names.

Ray Hopkins. Traced to Worcestershire. Again with recent contact.  Confirms correct names.

Ted Hicks  Deceased    1996       France, widow survives him.

Reg Clayton.     No info to date.

Frank (Bluey") Cairns       Deceased  2002    Cornwall.

Would welcome any help to research this period.

Many thanks


Request 471.    Posted 28 Apr 2007

I was a National Serviceman from September 1955-57. I reported to Cardington as a National Service "sprog" in September 1955, After the usual basic at Padgate I went to Compton Bassett for Radar Training. "Permanent" postings were to 250 SU, RAF Hopton followed by 146 SU RAF Bempton as part of the trials team on the Type 80. 

I have several pictures from the era, and many of the old forms etc. Names like Mike Howell, Keith Jones, Dave Urpeth, "Tub" Friston, Fred Gittins, Joe Bangay, F.O. Green, Jack Metcalfe, Barry Gregory all come to mind as well as others named on the back of the pictures. Is there anyone who might remember me back those 50 years? I was variously known as Red or Ginge or Mal. I would like to make contact with the possibility of a 'face-to-face' on one of my visits back to UK.

Would love to be back for the RAF Bempton Reunion in July (www.rafbempton.co.uk). Norman Down (not a contemporary) has a handle on this


Request 470.    Posted 28 Apr 2007

39 Squadron

My grandfather, Albert George, has talked many times of his experiences and fond memories of serving in 39 Squadron, based in Italy. He was a rear gunner and flew in the B26 Marauder. He was also known as ‘Ginger George’ to many of his fellow airmen.

I was just wondering whether there were other readers of this website who may have been part of the same Squadron or even better still remember my wonderful grandfather?


Request 469.    Posted 22 Apr 2007

Hi, I was wondering if you would be willing to post my request for information on my Grandfather.  All I have been told is that his name was Sidney Smith and that he was a pilot in the RAF and was shot down and killed in 1943.  I do have a photograph of him if that helps. I would gratefully appreciate any assistance as I am having no luck at all searching for information on him.

Many thanks, Pippa Fairfax, Australia


Request 468.    Posted 22 Apr 2007

I am seeking information about balloon operators during WW2.  My mother Barbara Rennie, RAF flew balloons out of London, I think! or near by.  I am lead to believe that they operated under Bomber Command.  I would appreciate any information about the unit and if there has been an official history published.  My mother is in her 80's with deteriorating health.  Any information would be most appreciated. Thank you. Best Wishes
Bill Rogers


Request 467.    Posted 22 Apr 2007

I am trying to find any info about my father F/SGT Frederick William Reynolds. He was Married to a Jessie Reynolds nee Jacobs He WAS a Printer before the war and lived in Mitcham surrey had two sons Colin &John . I think he was either stationed at Biggin hill or Croydon. He was a boxer in the sqn and his nickname was Biffo any one with any info please get in contact Regards Colin


Request 467.    Posted 22 Apr 2007

I am looking for information regarding my uncle "DONALD KENNEDY" from Gribun, Isle of Mull .Scotland,  who was one of about 100 crewmen killed on board aircraft carrier "HMS EAGLE" in march 1939 due to some kind of accident.


Request 466.    Posted 22 Apr 2007

As a small boy I attended the British Forces School in Mingladon, having with  the rest of the family joined my Father, Herbert George Taylor who was Air Ministry in1946. I am looking for anything on the school staff and pupils and A.M staff.


Request 465.    Posted 15 Apr 2007

I am searching information about  Mr. Stoces Karel, Engineering Officer , 313 Squadron, RAF identification Number : 787376.


Request 464.    Posted 15 Apr 2007

I am looking for information regarding Richard Gardiner.

We believe that he was an RAF trans Atlantic ferry pilot with the RAF.

Thank you, Sandra and Derek Gardiner


Request 463.    Posted 15 Apr 2007

I would be pleased to receive any information re my father Sgt George Henry Hale of 462 Sqdn.   My fathers Halifax DT 495 took of from Solluch No 1 for a raid on Palermo Harbour on the night 8/9th February 1943, but the aircraft failed to return.   The other members of the crew of the Halifax were Sgt Humphrey Ralph Green, from Anglesey, Sgt Henry Nicholson Balmforth, from Yorkshire, Sgt William Sutherland Murray, from Glasgow, Sgt Michael Denis McHale, from London, Sgt Donald McCardle, from Lancashire, and Sgt Thomas Edward Mackrill, from Charlestown.   I would also be pleased to receive any information on the other members of the crew.  


Request 462.    Posted 15 Apr 2007

Croydon Airport 1950s

Anyone who remembers Gwilym Jones (also known as Taff, Taffy, Gwil, Wal or Wally!), ex-RAF teleprinter operator, or Irene Jones (nee Dench) who worked in civilian support, please could they get in touch?

Thanks

Caron Jones

Head of Public Relations

University of Greenwich


Request 461.    Posted 5 Apr 2007

I would like to be put into contact with any persons who knew my father in WW2 Pilot Officer Allen Sheffield DFC. I think he was based in Christchurch then Hampshire in both Fighter and bomber command.

Thank you

Nigel G Sheffield


Request 460.    Posted 5 Apr 2007

Hello everyone,

I was doing history research in the  field of "The life of British in Shanghai during 1842----1949".I'd like to find someone or his/hers relatives or friends who is still alive to help me doing this project. 

I'd appreciate it very much if anyone could do me a favour.If you have any information related to that field,please contact me by emails: haitianwen@yahoo.com.cn or helenawen@msn.com

Sincerely yours,

Helena


Request 459.    Posted 1 Apr 2007

Is  anyone   still  alive  who  was  in  51  Squadron  RAF  Snaith  with  my  dad,   Pilot  Officer  Edgar  Young,  he  flew  Halifax Bombers.

Thanks,

Nick  Young


Request 458.    Posted 8 Mar 2007

I am writing on behalf of my father George Burnett RAF no 148127 who flew Leigh Light Wellington 8's & 14's in India/Tanjore & Algeria in 1942/43-Squadron 36. 
Other names were Les Smith, Patrick Gallacher, Sgt J G Davies, Sgt W F Gibson, W/O Eddie Edmunds, Sgt M D Hampson, Sgt A G Martin.
I would love to know if anyone has any memories to pass on to Dad.
Best Regards


Request 457.    Posted 7 Mar 2007

I recently found out that I am related to the late Matthew Nash died 30/09/1943, buried in Ambon War Cemetery.

Royal Air Force

Leading Aircraftman

age 22

if anyone knew him, or perhaps a family member sees this- would love to hear from you.

Thanks

Kate


Request 456.    Posted 7 Mar 2007

Flt Lt Michael Moray Shand NZ 391368

Having visited Stalag Luft 3 this week I discovered Flt Lt M Shand was one of the 26 that survived 'the Great Escape'.  I have established he was serving with 485 Sqn at the time flying aircraft EP 595 (poss Spitfire) and had previously served with 54 Sqn.  Any information about him would be greatly appreciated.  Additionally information on JB Shand or RM Shand who were also held at Stalag Luft 3.

Jon Shand


Request 455.    Posted 3 Mar 2007

I am looking for any information about Sergeant Vernon Egan, 1092735 214 squadron who’s plane was lost in Deurne, Netherlands on the 15 or 16 of April 1942.

If anyone knows any info then please let me know. Thanks


Request 454.    Posted 3 Mar 2007

Unfortunately, my enquiry is vague, to say the least, but I hope someone may have, or can remember the following film made for the BBC.  It was filmed at RAF Wittering sometime 1972-1974.

It featured a number of aircraft Canberra, Vulcan, Phantom (6 squadron), Lightings, Harriers etc. and was commentated by Raymond Baxter.  

The reason I ask is because I was on the film, dashing(?) young man pulling the chocks out from a Phantom and I would like to show my children that time is very unkind!

If anyone can recall the film being made or has a copy or knows where I may purchase one, I will be very grateful.

Kind regards  Adrian Greenwood -  A.K.A. Ada.


Request 453.    Posted 24 Feb 2007

I'm trying to get information on James P Haughey, RCAF, 1941-43. He died in a training crash with 407 Squadron, Sept. 1943. Of the 6 men on the plane only R J West survived, possibly also a Canadian.  Jim was from Lurgan, Northern Ireland.  He spent some time at an RAF hospital in June 1943, presumably while he was based at St Eval, Cornwall. Would anyone know of Jim? Of about 407 Squadron generally? Any idea of a hospital in the area, the handwriting on his forms is so bad it's unreadable, to me anyway.

Regards and thanks in advance, Ciaran Crossey


Request 452.    Posted 24 Feb 2007

I am looking for information on J Plum, shot down in France about 1939/40, he would have been about 20 years old.

Many thanks, Joe


 
Request 451     Posted 24 Feb 2007

After publishing 'RAF Police Dogs on Patrol' & 'RAF Police Operations in Europe', I'm pleased to announce that 'RAF Police Operations Cape Town to Kabul' has been accepted by the publisher and should be available in Autumn (2007). It covers Africa (incl Egypt), the Middle East, Cyprus, Persian Gulf, Aden, Iraq, Iran & Afghanistan.

I am now finalising for publication in 2008; 'RAF Police Operations Bombay to Ascension Island' & 'Those Blooming Snowdrops'; a collection of RAFP humour & cartoons.

However, I need more information & personal memories on; India, Ceylon, Burma, Malaya, Singapore, Hong Kong, Borneo, Japan, Gan, Christmas Island, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Belize, Canada, the Falkland Islands, Ascension Island & anywhere in that region I haven't mentioned. Please also dig out those funny stories or good quality cartoons for 'Those Blooming Snowdrops', the royalties of which I hope to donate to either the RAFP Memorial Fund, or RAFP Association.  


Request 450.    Posted 18 Feb 2007

Anyone help please. This is a long shot but someone may be able to help. I own ex RAF Lightweight Landrover 54 AM 39. I have it confirmed that it was at Wittering 1972-1981, Catterick 1981-82, and Binbrook 1982 to disposal in 1987. Anyone remember it ?, what was it used for exactly ?, is it hiding in the background of a photo somewhere ?. many thanks in advance for your help.

Dave Boxall


Request 449.    Posted 18 Feb 2007

I did my square bashing at Padgate in July in 1949, but lost my squadron photo after I got married.  Is it possible to find out the photographer that took the photos;  Also, what happened to the Lancaster & Spitfire that were there.  The late Bob Monkhouse was a PTI at Hall Green near Padgate those days. 

P. Broad (now living in France)


Request 448.    Posted 18 Feb 2007

Looking for anyone who remembers James, Jimmy Isbister. I know he was with #33 Air Navigation School at Mount Hope, and a training school in Medicine Hat, Canada, in the early 40’s. Also, in Squadron 194 in India and Singapore near the end of WWII. My dad, who is 84, doesn’t have e mail so I will be his contact and who knows, if there are any replies it may inspire him to connect to the net. Thanks


Request 447.    Posted 18 Feb 2007

Looking for former service member that were stationed at Pennfield Ridge, NB Canada (1941-1945) to help provide some details of station life. Either with RAF No. 2 ANS, RAF No. 34 OTU or with RCAF activities. I am in the midst of a 6 year project outlining the air station's history and live with a few miles of the now abandoned airfield. Anyone with information on Pennfield Ridge Air Station, please contact me


Request 446.    Posted 9 Feb 2007

Requesting any information Fathers Brother: 577048 F/Sgt Patrick Hodgkinson 149 Sqdn RAF Lakenheath. Aircraft OJ-B BF 530 Short Stirling III, KIA 3/4 Jul 1943 during Cologne Raid Shot down Obl. Heinz Wolfgang Schnaufer, crashed Geebets Belgium.

We will remember them.


Request 445.    Posted 9 Feb 2007

I'm looking for information about my parents who were both in Codes and Ciphers in the RAF in WW2.

I would love to hear from anyone who knew my father, LAC E.T.H. [Jimmy] James who was a teleprinter operator stationed in Egypt and Cyprus in WW2. He was in T.M.E. Helmieh from August 1942 and I have a Christmas 1942 menu card signed on the back by G.H. Scott [then a squiggle], Betty Kimber, [Pers?] Jolly and Jerry Henderson. Later he was in Nicosia from February 1945.

Also, did anyone know my mother, Joan Patricia Waterman known later as Pat James. She was at Fighter Command Stanmore from Sept 1939 to June 1942 when she went to Cranwell. She got her commission and was at No 11 Maintenance Unit Chilmark in the summer of 1945 among many other places.

Rosemary


Request 444.    Posted 4 Feb 2007

I wonder if anybody remembers my father, Ronald (Ron or Tubby) Taylor who flew with 605 squadron when they reformed with Mosquitos in 1943.  Sadly he died in 1958 and I know very little of his career

David Taylor


Request 443.    Posted 28 Jan 2007

I am trying to trace personnel who were in No. 27 Group HQ drawing office for the period March 1957 to September 1958 and also  No. 2 Radio School HQ drawing office (RAF Yatesbury) for the period of September to December 1958.


Request 442.    Posted 27 Jan 2007

Former Flt. Lt. Bernard Hammond, GD Pilot. Mosquito's.

Would like to trace his Nav. former F/Sgt. Les Gardner who served with him on 618 Sqn. at RAF Skitten, Caithness and RAAF Narromine, NSW, Australia. 1944-45.


Request 441.    Posted 27 Jan 2007

What a great service and site! Wish I'd found it years ago! Thank you.

I'd greatly enjoy hearing from anyone who knew W/C Johnny Bartlett DFC who, with his R/O, was killed while landing his Beaufighter 11 (Two) at R A F station, Coltishall, after he and I'd been doing our night-flying tests, in '42. Johnny came to our squadron as C O, 255 N/F, from Bomber Command, and was urgently needed for morale purposes due to structural engine failures whereby we had lost both COs and Flight Commanders. As he became a good and kind friend in so short space of time, I'd so appreciate any further information about him.

Should, perhaps, anyone remember me...I'm 87.. I'd so enjoy hearing from them (one!), too. Yesterdays fly by but I still have a memory for 1939-'45/6!

Michael Wynne-Willson. AFC.

255, 256 Sqdns: N F I U, RAF Station, Greenwood N S and C F E West Raynham.


Request 440.    Posted 26 Jan 2007

I am looking for members or information about No 245 Squadron out of Middle Wallop during WW 2.  Any information would be helpful.

Nancy S. Sites

President and Co-Founder

IMPACT Educational Consulting Associates, Inc.


Request 439.    Posted 25 Jan 2007

Thanks for the great site.

I'm trying to find out if anyone knew of my father, LAC Jacob Saul

(Jack) Carp (3011420) who served from 3 Aug 43 to 23 Mar 47.

I have a copy of his basic Service record but I would be interested to hear from anyone who knew him or if any wartime photos of him exist. The details of his service were:

Service Number: 3011420

Date of Enlistment: 3 Aug 43

Postings:

3 Recruit Centre Padgate: 3 Aug 43; 3 Technical Training School: 21 Oct 43; 9103 Servicing Echelon: 2 Mar 44; 13 Base: 19 Mar 44; Lyneham: 23 Aug 45; 4511 Servicing Echelon: 27 Feb 46; Admitted RAF Hospital Wroughton: 25 Apr 46; 4051 Servicing Echelon: 3 Oct 46; 101 Personnel Dispersal Centre Class A release: 23 Mar 47.

Musterings

Aircrafthand/Flight Mechanic Engines/Airframes: 3 Aug 43; Flight Mechanic (Engines): 23 Feb 44

Ranks Held

Aircraftman 2: 3 Aug 43; Aircraftman 1: 23 Feb 44; Leading Aircraftman: 1 Sep 44


Request 438.    Posted 21 Jan 2007

My brother flew with this unit from Foggia during WWII. He was a WAG and flew in Wellingtons on 39 sorties.

I am seeking information on these operations. Can anyone please assist?

Max Manwaring


Request 437.    Posted 21 Jan 2007

Hi I'm writing on behalf of my 84 year old neighbour, Victor Mitchel. Victor piloted a Catalina in Gibraltar & would dearly love to get in contact with his Australian navigator Vernon Wells .Vick now lives in Bundaberg Australia . i would gather Vernon would be around the same age as Vick , so any information at this stage would make a good friend very happy                                                                                   

202 Mediterranean Sqn

based in Gibraltar 1942

call sign-OBO

regards Brian White


Request 436.    Posted 19 Jan 2007

Any information regarding crash of B17 at Astwell Castle Farm in December 1942, all crew were killed.

regards

Derek Ratledge.


Request 435.    Posted 19 Jan 2007

I am looking for any info/pictures about 307 squadron Polish Airforce (nightfighter) especially with regards to W/O Ryszard Tulinski, my grandfather.

Regards.

Karl Tulinski


Request 434.    Posted 19 Jan 2007

I am a journalist researching the shooting down of a 600 Squadron Beaufighter, by another Beaufighter from 604 Squadron at 0349hrs 9/10 May 1941 and would be delighted for any information.  I would also like permission to reproduce the drawing of the 600 Squadron Beaufighter to accompany the article.

Many thanks

John Howland


Request 433.    Posted 19 Jan 2007

I am trying to trace a Pilot Officer H. Beale who served with 142 B Squadron in 1938.  My father served with him at R.A.F. Binbrook in the early 40's with a Wellington Squadron.

As I have some of his property to be returned I would be grateful for any information that would help me to find him or his descendants.


Request 432.    Posted 19 Jan 2007

211 Squadron took its Hinds to the Middle East in 1938 and went on to carry out Blenheim operations in the Western Desert, Greece and Palestine, training at Wadi Gazouza, and back to operations in the Far East on Sumatra and Java in 1942. From 1943 they carried out in Beaufighter strikes over Burma, ending with conversion to the Mosquito in mid 1945 to disband in Thailand in 1946. The Squadron's story is recounted on my website at www.211squadron.org.

I'd be very pleased to hear from any surviving ex-members or from anyone who has any information they would like to see become part of the Squadron's story.

Contact: Don Clark

Enquiries: http://users.cyberone.com.au/clardo/enquiries.html


Request 431.    Posted 9 Jan 2007

We are searching for any one who has knowledge of RAF Pilot Officer CROSSLEY, James Foxall and RAF Sergeant GRASSO, Enzo Biaggie.  These two airmen were members of the No. 298 Squadron Halifax crew that left Tarrant Rushton Airbase on July 15, 1944 on an SOE drop mission in France.  The bomber was shot down in the early hours of July 16, 1944 and came to rest at Larre, Normandy.  None of the seven aboard survived.

Pilot Officer CROSSLEY was age 24, the son of John and Elizabeth Crossley.  Sergeant GRASSO was age 23, son of Natale and Anna Grasso of Stockwell, London; husband of Adelina Grasso. Both graves are in Le Mans West Cemetery, France

Fellow crew members were FOURNIER, Joseph Wilfred Romeo, RCAF; LINNING, William Edward, RCAF; SMITH, Derwood William, RCAF; WILKINSON, Edward Maurice, RAF, and a member of the SOE.  Contact has been made with family of the above four airmen and some have visited the stele overlooking the crash site just east of Larre, France.  This stele, with all the names engraved on it, was erected by the members of the Larre community to honour the six airmen that gave their lives for the freedom of their country. 

If anyone has information about this No. 298 Squadron Halifax, please contact E. Linning through the link above.

Thank you for providing this website for searches such as this!


Request 430.    Posted 8 Jan 2007

Am trying to locate a Ron Smith who served with my father on Christmas Island in 1957/58, with the RAF, travelled back together at the end of their tour.  Also anyone else who knew my father.  My father's name was Derek Middleton but was better known as John or Hank (nickname).  

It would be nice to rekindle his memories....

Any info greatly appreciated.

Thanks Sue


Request 429.    Posted 8 Jan 2007

I am trying to trace the following two men who were stationed at:

RAF Brize Norton from March 1944 with
297 Squadron

Sgt. D.G. MORRIS (Wireless Op) 
Sgt. A.R. FLACK  (Air Gunner)

Would be very interested to hear from anyone who knew them or know if they are still alive.


Request 428.    Posted 8 Jan 2007

Is there anybody who has some information about my grandfather?

His name is Jan (Johannes Wilhelmus) Koppen. He has flown with the RAF with the Spitfire in I think around 1942.

I would be very glad if somebody would know something or maybe knows about him.

I'm very grateful,


Request 427.    Posted 6 Jan 2007

Looking for my GI Father

My father an American GI, served in RAF Daws Hill High Wycombe, in the late 50's early 60's, he was also best man at a wedding in Woodford, Essex on 6th September 1960. Firstly I would be interested to know if there was an RAF/USAF base in Woodford at the time, and secondly would appreciate any information about my father. His name is Anthony Garcia, born in 1937, possibly from New York (not confirmed) he served as a clerk at RAF High Wycombe, possibly in the Fire Station.

Any help would be much appreciated.

Many thanks

Tony Cooper


Request 426.    Posted 3 Jan 2007

I'm researching the medals and Orders awarded to Marshal of the RAF Sir John Cotesworth SLESSOR (1897-1979)

I would like to have some more specific answer about some of his decorations as following :


1) SLESSOR received the IGS 1936-39 medal + 1 clasp. Which is this clasp ?

Am I right to believe it is that named : 'North West Frontier 1936-37' (and NOT the'North West Frontier 1937-39' ?

2. SLESSOR received the Khedive Sudan 1910 medal + 2 clasps. As this medal has 2 different types of reverses (the 1st type bears on the reverse an arabic inscription [cypher] for the period 1910-1917; the 2nd type bears on the reverse a DIFFERENT arabic inscription [cypher] for the period 1918-22). Which type of reverse have the medal received by SLESSOR?? Am I right to believe it is the 1st type ?


4. SLESSOR received the 'Yugoslavia, Partisan Star'. This star has 3 grades/classes each having a different ribbon. Which of the 3 classes Slessor received?

Am I right to believe it is the 1st class ?

5. SLESSOR received the Norway, Order of St Olav (Knight Grand Cross). Does he received the Military (with swords) or Civil (without swords)

I thankyou very much in advance for your Help

Best Regards

Mauro RUSCELLO (from Italy)


Request 425.    Posted 3 Jan 2007

I am a Dutch journalist working on a television program about the so called "Demolition Parties" that embarkesd at the Hook of Holland may 1940 They were supported by RAF fighter planes. Some airman were killed in action and are buried at British War Cemeteries in Hook of Holland , 's Gravenzande and Vlaardingen. I wonder if there are any surviving eye witnesses among former RAF crew.

Yrs sincerely

Frank Dam


Request 424.    Posted 27 Dec 2006

My father Lac Ron Coggon was based here during this time I am looking for anyone who might have known him especially his friend Ernie Briggs, a bus driver from Leeds.  Also I would like to obtain the Squadron badge.

Clive Coggon


Request 423.    Posted 27 Dec 2006

Along with my son I'm trying to source details of my father in law, Corporal Hugh Adair.

Hugh is now 83 years old living in West Linton, Peeblesshire, and was awarded the Military Medal in WW2 which he has put aside for my son Darren.

My wife ( Hugh's daughter ) and all the family are interested in seeking more information as to the circumstances surrounding this award but all that we've been able to come up with are that Hugh was in 2876 squadron aboard

LCT43 for the Juno landings and that he was involved in the rescue of colleagues from LCT46 that had been hit by enemy batteries before sinking.

If anyone can forward more detailed information we would be much obliged.

Thanks in anticipation.

Bill MacDonald.


Request 422.    Posted 23 Dec 2006

The publisher, Harper Collins would like to get in contact with any relatives of Air Commodore J B Voyce, with a view to acquiring permission to use a photograph , whose copyright is attributed to him.

The contact at Harper Collins is Melanie Haselden and she can be contacted on 020 8307 4342 or by e-mail at melanie.haselden@harpercollins.co.uk


Request 421.    Posted 15 Dec 2006

I'm Janusz from Poland, please help me find on life my grandfather Antoni Szczepański in S.H.O. RAF Coltishall maybe No 302 (Poznan) Squadron .

Antoni SZCZEPAŃSKI

Born: 17.01.1906 in BRZEŹNO / KONIN POLAND.

251 Weston Road Sothall Middx.

I'm interesting in Your life and historian II war.

Thank's you in help me


Request 420.    Posted 15 Dec 2006

Researching history of American 8th Army Airforce, Fighter Command Headquarters at Bushey Hall, Hertfordshire. Know there was a link with RAF Fighter Command at Bentley Priory from 1942 ...  through WW2. Would love to have more info on RAF's role with Bushey Hall or contact with anyone stationed at Bushey Hall.  Also RAF Transport Command  was involved with Berlin Airlift directly after war, at Bushey Hall. Would like to know more please. Janet


Request 419.    Posted 9 Dec 2006

I am to trying to find out about Peter Dennis Skerman Sergeant (W.Op/Air Gnr.)  76 squadron he was in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve.  He died on the 01/10/1942 aged 21yrs. I am looking into the Skerman family tree and would love to hear from anyone who has a picture or information about him. 

Thank you V. Williams.


Request 418.    Posted 1 Dec 2006

Seeking relations of following crews killed on 15/3/1944 when a Stirling EH989 WEP-P of 90 Squadron-

Crew : -

F/Sgt J.V.Spring, Sgt G.E.Collins, Sgt T.R.Hewitt, Sgt J.H.Bone, Sht A.H.Westcourte, Sgt W.H.Ramsay, Sgt W.Bruce  

The Stirling crashed when preparing to land at Tuddenham after a raid on Amiens,France. .It collided with Wellington LN660 of 11 Operational Training Unit,Westcott,Bucks-92 group. The Wellington Crew were-

F/O .Staff Pilot.James Henry Scott Lyon DFC RAAF., Pilot F/Sgt Donald Francis RNZAF, Wireless Op George Hudson RNZAF, NavigatorGerald Gilbert RNZAF, Bomb Aimer F/O Rennie Taylor RAFVR, Wireless Op/Sgt Robert Kemp RAFVR, Mid Gunner Arthur Goold RNZAF, Sgt Air Gunner Reginald Barlow RAFVR,       

Any info/crew photos etc.Many thanks Linda Ibrom


Request 417.    Posted 1 Dec 2006

I'm Heinz Johannsen from Rendsburg Germany, northern part. I still try to find some RAF lads who where stationed here in 1945 - 1949.  A unit that had to maintain the RAF Station Schleswig Land.(? MTLU?)or the 309 Supply and Transport Collum,   or the 2856 Squadron RAF R. HQ.  Made many friends that time. I have good memories. The Soldiers supported the German people often with food coal etc.   IT HAS NOT BEEN FORGOTTEN !!!  Thank you in the name of all those you helped in bad times.  With best regards     Heinz Johannsen Rendsburg


Request 416.    Posted 1 Dec 2006

Relatives of Air Commodore Charles Samson

The  No 269 Squadron Association would like to contact any relatives of the above officer, who was their first commanding officer.  If you are related to A/Cdre Samson or known of the whereabouts of any relatives, please contact Group Captain Hugh Eccles, President of the No 269 Squadron Old Comrades Association


Request 415.    Posted 26 Nov 2006

I am researching the 13th H/Squadron during WW11.This was a Greek Squadron which was formed under the RAF and had English, Commonwealth and Greek crews. I have many photographs of the crews but cannot put names to them all. If you or a relative was with this squadron please contact me through the link above

Best Regards Kevin Rush


Request from Webmaster

I am currently looking for copies of station badges to complete the station histories section.  If anyone has examples of the missing station badges (shown below), I would appreciate receiving a copy

Aberporth, No 6 Armament Training Station,  Armament Practice Station, Acklington; Bahrein, Berka, Bishopbriggs, Bovingdon, Butzweilerhof, Cark, Castle Bromwich, Eastchurch, Greenock, Hal Far, Hong Kong, Horsham St Faith, Kalafrana, Kemble, Khartoum, Krendi, Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, Long Benton,
Machrihanish, Medmenham, Mount Pleasant, Negombo, Nordhorn, North Front, Norton, Old Sarum, Ouston, Port Ellen, Sandwich, Stornoway, Ta Kali, Waterbeach, Wythall, Yeadon


Request 412 Removed


Request 413.    Posted 19 Nov 2006

I am trying find to find any whereabouts of Wg Cdr W G Lawrence who was in the RAF at Chigwell in Essex around 1952. I have come across some property that I would like to return to him or his family.


Request 412.    Posted 19 Nov 2006

Please please help me those of you who have memories of St Athens!!

In 1943/44 my nan Eileen who worked in the canteen at RAF St Athens (18years old and blonde) met a pilot called "Tony". Tony was a black guy but she does not recollect where from. She says he was well bred and believes he may have been from Ethiopia????? A year later she had Tony's baby although she was married to a white man at the time.

My mother was finally sent away to an orphanage but years later she had me.

I'm 41(Eileen's grandaughter) and have no idea of my roots on Tony's side.

This is a one off for me. My nan's now 85 so I just hope I can find something out from somebody out there.

Many many thanks,

Sarah


Request 411.    Posted 11 Nov 2006

 

Removed 1 Dec 2007 and replace by Request 530.


Request 410.    Posted 11 Nov 2006

I spent two very happy National Service years (1954/56) in Air Traffic Control, Aldergrove with a great bunch of officers as my superiors. For ages I have been trying to obtain a photo of the Aldergrove Control Tower as it  was about that time without any success. All I have to show  are a couple of photos of the ATC football team.

Please, can anyone suggest where or whom I should contact in this quest.

Oh to hear the growl of a Shackleton again!

Ian Mackenzie


Request 409.    Posted 4 Nov 2006

I am trying to make contact with any surviving relatives or friends of the crew of Albemarle Mk 6  N1782 which crashed 1 mile south of Brize Norton, Oxfordshire (on/near our land) on 27th August, 1944.  All the crew were killed.  They were with 297 Squadron based at Brize Norton and tragically were so nearly home after a mission to Europe when the crash happened.

They were:

F/s Allan H Busbridge  1901572  Pilot  - came from 42 OTU, F/s William (Bill) F. Insley 1247337 Air bomber  - came from 61 Lancaster Squadron, F/s Bernard V. Mowan 1324290 Navigator, Sgt Edgar F. Bonser 1819132 Air Gunner - loaned from 296 Squadron, Sgt Kenneth J. Shay 1681173 Wireless Op/Airgunner


Request 408.    Posted 4 Nov 2006

Can anyone identify the airman in the photo, who is believed to have been aboard Hampden AE433 (EQ-D) 0f No 408 Sqn, which crashed at Limburg Holland after being shot down on the night of 8/9 Nov 1941.  Its crew, who were all taken prisoner, being : -

P/O E L Houghton RNZAF, P/O J C Monkhouse RCAF, Sgt A J Gallan, Sgt J E Woodward.

Can you identify this airman?


Request 407.    Posted 4 Nov 2006

My sister is compiling a family history (isn't everyone) we are stuck in relation to an Uncle who served in the RAF during WW2 as a pilot.

I know he remained in service after the war and finally ended his career as Snr ATC Officer ranked Flt. Lt at RAF Shawbury.

I visited him whilst on duty many times during my service in the Air Cadets.

His full name is Reginald Garner Woods. RAF nick name "Timber"

Photo of Reginald 'Timber' Woods

When I was a child I can recall clearly being at his then wife's home my aunty, on The Wirral in the UK when my aunty informed me that he was due to fly over the house and should go into the garden to observe which we did. At the time he was still actively on flying duties, and he appeared overhead in a white or silver Lancaster which I have since discovered to be the Aries Lancaster used for Polar Navigation research. He is not listed as a crew member for that flight however, so may have flown the aircraft later for other reasons.

Sadly after retirement he committed suicide and none of the family can find or did find in his belongings any of his RAF Logs or information related to his career whilst in service.

The only other point of note I know for fact is that during a landing at Shawbury his Lancaster came down short due to either mechanical failure or damage (bird strike) and landed on a car killing a female occupant, see below: -

"Lancaster NX719 of this unit was involved in an accident when making a practice three engine landing. The aircraft was carrying a crew of four; Pilot, W/Op, Navigator and Engineer.

The Navigator was the only member of the crew seriously injured and he is now on the way to recovery.

Also involved in the crash was a private car and all three occupants, Mrs Brettle, Miss Brettle and Mrs Crow were removed to hospital in Shrewsbury suffering from shock injuries. This accident was subject of a Court of Enquiry.

Members of the crew were as follows:

Pilot – F/Lt Woods

W/Op – Sig II Lewsley

Navigator – F/Lt Delbridge

Engineer – F/Lt Tyler

SSQ – On the 18th December a Lancaster aircraft of this unit crash landed on the edge of the airfield and came into collision with a civilian car.

The Navigator of the aircraft, F/Lt Delbridge, and the three occupants of the car, Mrs Crow, Mrs Bretell and Miss Bretell were admitted to the Royal Salop Infirmary. F/Lt Tyler, Flight Engineer was admitted to SSQ RAF Shawbury for three days. The pilot F/Lt Woods, and the wireless Operator Sig II Llewsley were not injured."

From the Shrewsbury Chronicle, 17th December 1947:

I would be grateful if you could maybe point us in the right direction to obtain any information relating to this person. I have written to the CO at RAF Shawbury but it was on no help due to the long time elapsing with his service and retirement.

regards

Keith Woods


Request 406.    Posted 29 Oct 2006

I hope to hear from anyone who knows of one or more Jamaicans working with or serving with the RAF at Lossiemouth or Kinloss in the early 1960s. I have no names but would very much like to hear from anyone who remembers any servicemen matching that description and may remember their names or nicknames.


Request 405.    Posted 18 Oct 2006

I am helping in some research regarding Wg. Cdr. Bransome Burbridge (100067). I wonder if anyone is still around who remembers he and his navigator, Flt Lt F S Skelton from their time with 85 Squadron or earlier.

Any information would be valuable.

Regards, Bruce Hall.


Request 404.    Posted 18 Oct 2006

LOOKING FOR JOHN PLUMB FROM BEDFORD SHOT DOWN OVER FRANCE AGE ABOUT 19 PILOT  THINK ABOUT MAY 1940

MANY THANKS IF YOU CAN HELP

REGARDS JOE BARNETT


Request 403.    Posted 15 Oct 2006

I am searching for information for the following person: Neneto Vivian WRIGHT 714934 A.C.I.          R.A.F.   He was In Richmond, Surrey in 1946 and 1947 and stayed at 4 Bicester Road, Richmond, Surrey with Mr and Mrs Douglass.  He had a baby son, mother Olive Kathleen Douglass, called Roger Vivian Douglass who was born died in 1947.  The baby also died in 1947.  I would be very grateful for any information.

 Yours sincerely

 Mrs. J. A. Franklin


Request 402.    Posted 12 Oct 2006

I am seeking a photograph of Wg Cdr Coverdale. He was the first C.O. of 431 R.C.A.F. Squadron formed in November 1942 and stationed at Burn in Yorkshire. W/C Coverdale had a distinguished Air Force career prior to being posted to Burn. He and his crew failed to return from Ops June 1943 on a raid to Krefeld. he is the only C.O. of this Squadron of whom no photograph has been so far found. Any help would be gratefully received. Bill Heron/Canada


Request 401.    Posted 12 Oct 2006

This replaces Request 99

Information concerning Capt. Maurice Charles Hopkins of South Africa  who served in the 175 Squadron, 121 Wing.  Typhoons.  They were the first to set foot on German soil.  Capt. Hopkins committed suicide in 1946 a few months after being demobed, but I am trying to reconstruct his war years.  Any memories, pictures, letters, newsreel information...  I am quite willing to pay for the cost, if such is required.


Request 400.    Posted 12 Oct 2006

I would like to contact AVM R.N.Bateson's brother or members of his family.  In his recorded memoirs Bob Bateson refers to his brother converting pilots to Blenheims at Tangmere c.1941.  Bob Bateson was in the Middle East in 1941 prior to taking his squadron to Java during the fall of Singapore.  Any info would be much appreciated.


This page was last updated on 07/08/21

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