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No.54 Sqn RAF

Name : No.54 Sqn RAF Founded : 15th May 1916 Country : UK More Details : Audax omnia perpeti - Boldness to endure anything Known Code Letters : , KL, DL, HF,

No. 54 Squadron was formed on the 5th of May 1916 at Castle Bromwich. The squadron was equipped with BE2C's and Avro 504's and was part of the home defence force. Shortly after 54 squadron changed to day fighter duties and moved to France then equipped with Sopwith Pups. Their role was to escort bombers and attack observation balloons. Near the end of the great war 54 squadron was re -quipped with Sopwith Camels and tasked with ground attack as well as fighter sorties. In February 1919, the squadron returned to RAF Yatesbury and on 2nd October 1919 54 squadron was disbanded. On the 15th of January 1930, 54 squadron was reformed at RAF Hornchurch as a fighter squadron equipped initially with Siskin aircraft. The Siskins were subsequently replaced with Bulldog fighters and in September 1936 54 squadron was re-equipped with Gloster Gauntlets and in April 1937, they recieved Gloster Gladiators. In March 1939 the squadron recieved the new Supermarine Spitfire. After the outbreak of world war two, 54 Squadron was given the duties of patrolling the Kent coast, until having to support and give air cover to the evacuation of Dunkirk in May and June 1940. The squadron was heavily involved during the Battle of Britain until November 1940 and after the Battle of Britain had ceased the squadron moved in November 1940 to RAF Castletown where its duties were coastal patrols. In June 1942 the squadron moved to RAF Wellingore to prepare for the squadron moving to Australia. In January 1943 54 squadron joined No.1 Wing of the Royal Australian Air Force. The Spitfires of the squadron were given the role of air defence duties against Japanese air attacks in the Darwin area. After the war had ended 54 squadron was disbanded in Melbourne on the 31st of October 1945, although the squadron name continued when on the 15th of November 1945 No.183 Squadron was renumbered 54 Squadron and flew initially Hawker Tempests. Taking up jet aircraft, the squadron subsequently used Vampires, Meteors, Hunters, Phantom and Jaguars before disbanding on 11th March 2005. 54 Squadron reformed on 5th September 2005 as an ISTAR (Intelligence Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance ) unit equipped with Sentry, Nimrod and Sentinel aircraft.

Known Service Details :
Pilot or Aircrew	Rank	Start of Service	End of Service	Known Dates	Aircraft	Airframes	Notes
Stuart Nigel Rose		September 1941	unknown
Alexander Annan Adams	Pilot Officer	26th September 1931	unknown		Bulldog
John Lawrence Allen	Pilot Officer	unknown	24th July 1940	23rd May 1940	Spitfire	P9459 R6812	Killed in Action
W. Armstrong	Pilot Officer	unknown	18th February 1940				Killed in Action
Alfred William Alexander Bayne	Flight Lieutenant	unknown	unknown		Spitfire
G. D. Calderhead		unknown	unknown
A. R. McL. Campbell	Pilot Officer	unknown	unknown	24th August 1940	Spitfire	X4019
E. J. Coleman	Pilot Officer	unknown	7th February 1941		Hurricane		Killed in Action
G. R. Collett	Sergeant	15th July 1940	22nd August 1940		Spitfire	R6708	Killed in Action
G. W. Couzens		June 1940	unknown
J. Davis	Sergeant	9th August 1940	unknown	31st August 1940	Spitfire
Alan Deere	Flight Lieutenant	unknown	unknown	25th August 1940	Spitfire
P. G. Dexter		unknown	unknown
F. P. R. Dunworth	Squadron Leader	unknown	unknown	September 1940	Spitfire
E. F. Edsall	Pilot Officer	1st August 1940	unknown		Spitfire	X4236
D. O. Finlay	Squadron Leader	unknown	unknown	27th August 1940	Spitfire
A. Finnie	Pilot Officer	unknown	25th July 1940		Spitfire	R6816	Killed in Action
D. G. Gibbins	Sergeant	10th August 1940	unknown	31st August 1940	Spitfire	X4054
J. N. Glendinning		unknown	unknown
C. W. Goldsmith	Pilot Officer	unknown	unknown		Spitfire
W. E. Gore	Flight Lieutenant	6th August 1940	unknown
Colin Gray		unknown	unknown	16th August 1940	Spitfire
W. P. Hopkin	Pilot Officer	July 1940	unknown
Frank J. Howell	Commanding Officer	12th January 1948	9th May 1948		Vampire		e was subsequently posted to take over as Commanding Officer of No 54 Squadron at Odiham on 12th January, which was equipped with De Havilland Vampire's. 1px-trans.gif, 43 bytesOn 9th May 1948, Frank Howell was making a cine film of his squadron's aircraft, when the wingtip of one of them struck him, severing his jugular vein. Squadron Leader Frank Howell, DFC, bled to death before he could be treated. Killed in Action
J. L. Kemp	Pilot Officer	unknown	unknown	21st July 1940	Spitfire	N3184
N. A. Lawrence	Sergeant	unknown	unknown	15th August 1940	Spitfire	N3097
James Leathart	Flight Officer	unknown	unknown	21st May 1940	Spitfire
S. T. Meares		unknown	unknown
Roy Mottram	Pilot Officer	unknown	31st August 1941		Spitfire		Killed in Action
J. K. Norwell		unknown	unknown
Bobby Oxspring		unknown	unknown
R. B. Price		unknown	unknown
R. H. Robbins	Sergeant	unknown	September 1940	July 1940
M. M. Shand	Pilot Officer	24th August 1940	unknown	25th August 1940	Spitfire	R6969
D. J. Steadman		unknown	unknown
Charles Stewart	Pilot Officer	unknown	unknown	24th August 1940	Spitfire	P9389
J. Stokoe	Pilot Officer	unknown	unknown
L. Switon		August 1940	unknown		Spitfire
Phil H. Tew	Sergeant	unknown	unknown	May 1940
D. R. Turley-George	Flight Officer	unknown	unknown	25th July 1940	Spitfire	P9387
B. H. Way	Flight Officer	unknown	25th July 1940		Spitfire	R6707	Killed in Action

Pilots and Aircrew for : No.54 Sqn RAF
A list of all aircrew from our database who are associated with this squadron. A profile page is available by clicking their name.
Name	Info
Adams, Alexander Annan Click the name above to see a profile of Adams, Alexander Annan    Died : 1 / 3 / 1990	Adams, Alexander Annan P/O (prob) 10.10.1930 Sq.Ldr. 01.12.1938 W/Cdr. 01.03.1941 (WS) W/Cdr. 01.11.1944 Gp.Capt. 01.05.1944 Gp.Capt. 01.07.1944 ... ... Air Vice Marshal 01.01.1957 (retd 10.01.1960) Companion of the Order of the Bath CB 13.06.1957 Distinguished Flying Cross DFC 27.06.1944 Commander, Order of Oranje-Naussau (The Netherlands) OON 25.07.1950 25 Oct 1930: U/T Pilot, No 3 FTS. 26 Sep 1931: Pilot, No 54 Sqn. (Bristol Bulldog IIa) 23 Jan 1933: Adjutant No 604 (County of Middlesex) Sqn AuxAF. (Westland Wapiti ) ... - ... ... 19.01.1939 - 1939 Assistant Air Attaché, Berlin 12.10.1939 - 1940 Assistant Air Attaché, The Hague (Brussels) 24.05.1940 - 1940 Assistant Air Attaché, Berne 1940 - 1941? Staff, Directorate of Operations 1941 - 1942 Staff, British Embassy Washington 09.1943 - 1944 Commanding Officer, 49 Squadron RAF (flying Avro Lancasters) 11.09.1944 Deputy Director of Combined Operations (Air) 1945 attended RAF Staff College ?
Aitken, H. A. Click the name above to see a profile of Aitken, H. A.	Aitken, H. A.
Allen, John Lawrence Click the name above to see a profile of Allen, John Lawrence    Died : 24 / 7 / 1940	Allen, John Lawrence Pilot Officer Johnnie L. Allen flew with No 54 Squadron from throughout the war. Pilot Officer J.L. Allen was killed on the 24th of July 1940 near Margate. His Spitfire (R6812) or (P9549) was shot down on convoy patrol by Bf 109's of III Gruppe of JG 26 claimed by Adolf Galland. Pilot Officer J.L Allen stalled and crashed near Cliftonville.
Allen, Peter Click the name above to see a profile of Allen, Peter	Allen, Peter Completing his pilot training at No.1 OTU in Canada, he was assigned to 54 Sqn on Spitfires which had been relocated from Britain to Darwin, Northern Australia in 1943. The squadron carried out Air Defence patrols against Japanese aircraft and high-level reconnaissance flights.
Armstrong, W. Click the name above to see a profile of Armstrong, W.    Died : 18 / 2 / 1943	Armstrong, W. Pilot Officer W.Armstrong No 54 Squadron did not score any victories before or during the Battle of Britain. Pilot Officer Armstrong was wounded on the 18th of February 1943 and later died of his injuries, aged 21.
Austin, Roger Click the name above to see a profile of Austin, Roger	Austin, Roger Officer Commanding 54(F) Sqn Hawker Hunter 1968-1969
Bailey, H. N. D. Click the name above to see a profile of Bailey, H. N. D.	Bailey, H. N. D.
Baker, S. Click the name above to see a profile of Baker, S.    Died : 11 / 2 / 1941	Baker, S. Missing February 11th 1941**
Batchelor, G. H. Click the name above to see a profile of Batchelor, G. H.    Died : 9 / 7 / 1941	Batchelor, G. H. Killed July 9th 1941
Bayne, Alfred William Alexander Click the name above to see a profile of Bayne, Alfred William Alexander	Bayne, Alfred William Alexander . Alfie Bayne joined the RAF in January 1936 and joined the Squadron 54 in April 1937. On 7 June 1940, he was assigned to Squadron 17 as Flight Commander. At the head of his squadron, he takes an active part in the Battle of Britain He was shot down in combat on 25th of August 1940. He safely baled out of his Hurricane I (V7407) safely near Portland He was awarded the DFC in November 1940 . In July 1941, he became commander of Squadron 132 when it forms but in February 1942 he was transferred to the Far East. Arrived in Ceylon after the Japanese had attacked, he took command of the Squadron 30 in May 1942, remaining with the unit until February 1943. He was then posted to Burma as commander of Squadron 136 , managing to shoot down two Japanese aircraft which 1 will be confirmed. His tour of duty ends in May 1943. He left the RAF in 1946 with the rank of Wing Commander and died May 28, 1963. Flight Lieutenant A.W.A. Bayne of No. 17 Squadron was . Bayne later flew Spitfires with No 54 Squadron in the Battle of Britain.
Black, A. Click the name above to see a profile of Black, A.    Died : 1 / 2 / 1944	Black, A. Killed February 1st 1944
Bucknole, J. S. Click the name above to see a profile of Bucknole, J. S.    Died : 24 / 7 / 1941	Bucknole, J. S. Missing July 24th 1941**
Burtenshaw, A. A. Click the name above to see a profile of Burtenshaw, A. A.    Died : 12 / 3 / 1941	Burtenshaw, A. A. Killed March 12th 1941
Calderhead, G. D. Click the name above to see a profile of Calderhead, G. D.    Died : 12 / 1 / 1942	Calderhead, G. D. Killed January 12th 1942
Calton, Terry Click the name above to see a profile of Calton, Terry	Calton, Terry Officer Commanding 54(F) Sqn Jaguar 1974-1976
Campbell, A. R. McL. Click the name above to see a profile of Campbell, A. R. McL.	Campbell, A. R. McL. Pilot Officer A.R. McL Campbell of No 54 Squadron was wounded on the 24th of August 1940. His Spitfire I (X4019) was also damaged by a Bf 109 during this combat, over Manston.
Charles, E. F. J. Click the name above to see a profile of Charles, E. F. J.	Charles, E. F. J.
Colebrook, C. Click the name above to see a profile of Colebrook, C.    Died : 21 / 4 / 1941	Colebrook, C. Missing April 21st 1941**
Coleman, E. J. Click the name above to see a profile of Coleman, E. J.    Died : 7 / 2 / 1941	Coleman, E. J. Pilot Officer E.Jack Coleman served flew Spitfire's with No 54 Squadron during the Battle of Britain. Pilot Officer Coleman was killed in action on the 7th of February 1941.
Collett, G. R. Click the name above to see a profile of Collett, G. R.    Died : 2 / 8 / 1940	Collett, G. R. Sgt G.R.Collett joined No 54 Squadron on the 15th of July 1940. G.R.Collett was killed in action on the 22nd of August 1940 after he was shot down in his Spitfire I (R6708) near Deal in Kent. Sgt G.R.Collett is buried at Bergin op Zoom, The Netherlands, aged 24.
Connell, Neil Click the name above to see a profile of Connell, Neil	Connell, Neil Officer Commanding 54(F) Sqn 2003-2005
Couzens, G. W. Click the name above to see a profile of Couzens, G. W.	Couzens, G. W. Pilot Officer G.W.Couzens joined No 54 Squadron in June 1940. He was awarded the A.F.C. on the 14th of June 1945.
Dalton, John Click the name above to see a profile of Dalton, John	Dalton, John Royal Air Force Dakota pilot participated in the Berlin Airlift and later commander 54 Air Refueling Squadron (AETC) from 29th Jun 1987 to 18th July 1989.
Davis, J. Click the name above to see a profile of Davis, J.	Davis, J. Sergeant J.Davis joined No 54 Squadron on the 9th of August 1940. On the 31st of August 1940, was one of three pilots attempting to take off during a bombing raid. His Spitfire was thrown over the boundary fence by a bomb blast just as it took off, and it crashed into the River Ingrebourne. Two hours later Davis turned up at the main gate, unhurt and carrying his parachute. He had been thrown clear but, being unable to find a gap in the boundary fence, Davis had walked halfway around the aerodrome to get back in. J.Davis was later awarded A.F.C. on the 3rd of April 1945.
Deere, Alan Click the name above to see a profile of Deere, Alan    Died : 21 / 9 / 1995	Deere, Alan Top scoring New Zealand Ace with 22 victories, Deere was born in Auckland on December 12th 1917. Alan Deere would become one of the RAF's finest pilots. Joining the RAF in 1937, in September 1938 Al Deere was posted to No.54 Sqn at the time flying Gloster Gladiators, then in early 1940 the Squadron converted to Spitfires. His first brush with death happened when his oxygen failed while at altitude and ke blacked out, coming to only in time to pull his aircraft out of a dive and certain death. At the beginning of May 1940 Deere took part in the intensive air war over Dunkirk and on 23rd May 1940 Deere took part in a daring rescue operation. He and Pilot Officer Allen escorted their flight commander, James Leathart, to France where he was to land a Miles Master trainer and pick up the CO of 74 Squadron who had made a forced landing on the airfield at Calais-Marck. While the pick up was made, Alan Deere was at low level with Pilot Officer Allen at 8000 feet. As Flight Commander James Leathart prepared for take off in the Master, Pilot Offcier Allen spotted a flight o Bf109's coming their way. Deere scored his first victory, as a strafing Bf109 pulled out of its dive, presenting a perfect target. Deere fired a short burst and the aircraft stalled and then crashed into the sea. Deere, climbing to help Allen, crossed the path of two 109’s, one of which turned towards him. Deere also turned, firing at the second one, which rolled over and dived away. Pursuing the first one, he caught up at treetop height and pursued him, firing off his remaining ammunition before the German headed for home. During the whole event Deere and Allen accoutned for three Bf109's shot down and three damaged. All three aircraft returned to their base at RAF Hornchurch. During four days - 23rd to 29th May - Deere shot down three Bf109’s and three Bf110’s but his luck ran out and he was shot down over Dunkirk while attacking a Dornier Do17 and luckily managed a forced landing in Belgium where he optained a bicycle and cycled to Dunkirk where he managed to get on a destroyer and returned to Hornchurch within 30 hours of taking off. In June he was decorated with the DFC by the King at a special ceremony at Hornchurch. Alan Deere destroyed seven more enemy fighters and one bomber during the Battle of Britian and was awarded a Bar to the DFC. In January 1941 became an Operations Room Controller. He returned to operations on 7th May 1941, joining 602 Squadron in Scotland as a Flight Commander. On August 1st 1941 Alan Deere took command of 602 Squadron and on that day destroyed a Bf109. When his second operational tour ended in January 1942 Deere went to the USA to lecture on fighter tactics. In May 1942, he took command of 403 Squadron, commanding the squadron until August before being posted to staff duties. During a temporary attachment to 611 Squadron in February 1943 Deere destroyed an Fw190. Some days later he was appointed Wing Leader at Biggin Hill. He flew 121 sorties during his six months leadership and by this time his tally was twenty-two confirmed victories, ten probables and eighteen damaged. He was also awarded the DSO and a bar to his DFC. Alan Deere was also awarded the Croix de Guerre and the DFC (USA) and in May 1945 He was awarded an OBE. In December 1977 Air Commodore Deere retired form the Royal Air Force. Iin 1959 Air Commodore Alan Deere wrote of his experiences in his book, ’Nine Lives’. Sadly, he passed away on 21st September 1995.
Dexter, P. G. Click the name above to see a profile of Dexter, P. G.    Died : 14 / 7 / 1941	Dexter, P. G. Pilot Officer P.G.Dexter flew with No 603 Squadron and No 54 Squadron. He was wounded on the 2nd of October 1940 whilst flying for No 603 Squadron. His Spitfire I (P9553) was shot down and crashed near Croydon. P.G.Dexter was killed in action on the 14 of July 1941 after colliding with a Spitfire from No 54 Squadron. He managed to bale out but didn't survive. P.G.Dexter is buried at Samer, France.
Dunworth, F. P. R. Click the name above to see a profile of Dunworth, F. P. R.	Dunworth, F. P. R. Squadron Leader T.P.R.Dunworth flew with Spitfire's with No 66 Squadron and No 54 Squadron during the Battle of Britain. He took over Command of No 54 Squadron from A.Deere in September 1940
Edsall, E. F. Click the name above to see a profile of Edsall, E. F.    Died : 12 / 4 / 1942	Edsall, E. F. Pilot Officer Eric F.Edsall joined No 54 Squadron on the 1st of August 1940. He was awarded the D.F.C. on the 16th of January 1942, he was killed in a Japanese attack on Ceylon on the 12th of April 1942, aged 24.
Finlay, D. O. Click the name above to see a profile of Finlay, D. O.    Died : 19 / 4 / 1970	Finlay, D. O. Passed away 19th April 1970.
Finnie, A. Click the name above to see a profile of Finnie, A.    Died : 25 / 7 / 1940	Finnie, A. Pilot Officer A.Finnie of No 54 Squadron was shot down in his Spitfire I (R6816) at Kingsdown off Dover on the 25th of July 1940. He was killed.
Foster, Bob Click the name above to see a profile of Foster, Bob	Foster, Bob 605 Sqn Battle of Britain, flying Hurricanes throughout the Battle of Britain with much success. 54(F) Sqn Spitfire 1942-1944 in Australia. Flew some missions in aircraft R4118, which saw a total of 49 combat missions, shooting down several enemy aircarft. It was in this aircraft that Bob Foster damaged two Ju88s and shared in the destruction of a third. He finished the war with 7 confirmed victories and 3 probables.
Gavan, A. Click the name above to see a profile of Gavan, A.    Died : 22 / 6 / 1967	Gavan, A. Killed 22nd June 1967
Gibbins, D. G. Click the name above to see a profile of Gibbins, D. G.	Gibbins, D. G. Sergeant D.G.Gibbins was posted to No 54 Squadron on August 10th 1940. On the 31st of August his Spitfire(X4054) was shot down over Hildenborough and he baled out, he was uninjured.
Glendinning, J. N. Click the name above to see a profile of Glendinning, J. N.    Died : 12 / 3 / 1941	Glendinning, J. N. Killed March 12th 1941
Goldsmith, C. W. Click the name above to see a profile of Goldsmith, C. W.    Died : 28 / 10 / 1940	Goldsmith, C. W. Pilot Officer C.W.Goldsmith a South African flew with No 603 Squadron and No 54 Squadron during the Battle of Britain. He was killed on the 28th of October 1940. His Spitfire II (P7439) had been shot down on the 27th of October 1940 South of Maidstone, Kent, he died of his wounds.
Gonne, Michael Click the name above to see a profile of Gonne, Michael    Died : 8 / 8 / 1918	Gonne, Michael In May 1917 Gonne enlisted in the Royal Fusiliers, when he had reached the rank of captain, he was sent to the Royal Flying Corps. Michael Edward Gonne was assigned to 54 Squadron, and flew a Sopwith Pup no. A6215 to victory on 25 September and 18 October 1917, destroying 2 Alabatros D.III's. Gonne was given a Sopwith Camel which he increased his tally by another three German aircraft making 5 in total during Janaury 1918. Captain Michael Edward Gonne went missing on 8th August 1918; he was last seen near Brie at 1315 hours. He is buried in Heath Cemetery in Harbonnieres, France. He was awarded the Military Cross, gazetted on 16th August 1918. London Gazette entry for the award of the Military Cross, 16th August 1918 For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He is a daring and skilful leader of patrols, and has led his flight throughout a large amount of fighting, often against superior numbers, far over the enemy's lines. He has destroyed five enemy machines.
Gore, W. E. Click the name above to see a profile of Gore, W. E.    Died : 28 / 9 / 1940	Gore, W. E. Flight Lieutenant W.E.Gore was flew Hurricane's in France with No 607 Squadron, Gore joined No 54 Squadron on the 6th of August but stayed with them for only a month before returning to No 607 Squadron. He was shot down over Selsey and crashed his Hurricane I (P3108) into the Channel. He was recorded as missing on the 28th of September 1940, aged 25.
Gray, C. F. Click the name above to see a profile of Gray, C. F.	Gray, C. F.
Gray, Colin Click the name above to see a profile of Gray, Colin    Died : 1 / 8 / 1995	Gray, Colin
Gribble, D. G. Click the name above to see a profile of Gribble, D. G.    Died : 4 / 6 / 1941	Gribble, D. G. Missing June 4th 1941**
Griggs, Steve Click the name above to see a profile of Griggs, Steve	Griggs, Steve Steve Griggs has flown the Jaguar since 1976 with 31, 54(F) and 41(F) squadrons. In 1982 he ejected twice within a five-month period; the first after being shot down over Germany by an AIM-9 Sidewinder missile fired inadvertently from an RAF F-4 Phantom; the Second after a catastrophic engine fire over Northeast Scotland. He was awarded the Air Force Cross for pioneering night low level flying in the Jaguar With night vision goggles and was at the time of signing the print, the Officer Commanding 41(F) Squadron.
Hackwill, George Click the name above to see a profile of Hackwill, George	Hackwill, George Born in Devon on 22nd December 1892, George Hackwill joined the Royal Flying Corps from the Army in 1915. He scored two victories with No.22 Squadron in the FE2b aircraft in July and October 1916, before moving to No.44 Squadron. Now flying Sopwith Camels, he scored one victory over a Gotha bomber with this squadron before joining 54 Squadron, where the rest of his claims wre made between April and September 1918. He was awarded the Military Cross after shooting down the Gotha bomber, and this was gazetted on 9th February 1918. London Gazette entry for Military Cross of George Henry Hackwill, 9th February 1918 For conspicuous gallantry displayed when they engaged and shot down a Gotha raiding London. During the engagement, which lasted a considerable time, they were continually under fire from the enemy machine.
Hart, J. S. Click the name above to see a profile of Hart, J. S.	Hart, J. S.
Harvey, L. W. Click the name above to see a profile of Harvey, L. W.	Harvey, L. W.
Hopkin, W. P. Click the name above to see a profile of Hopkin, W. P.	Hopkin, W. P. Pilot Officer W.P.(John Willie) Hopkin in July 1940 joined No 54 Squadron. Hopkin claimed three kills with this squadron before later being posted away to No 602 Squadron in September 1940, adding three more kills during the Battle. Hopkin was awarded the D.F.C. on the 9th of September 1941. After the war, he spent a period as Honourary Secretary of the Battle of Britain Fighter Association.
Howard, J. Click the name above to see a profile of Howard, J.    Died : 6 / 5 / 1941	Howard, J. Killed May 6th 1941
Howell, Frank J. Click the name above to see a profile of Howell, Frank J.    Died : 9 / 5 / 1948	Howell, Frank J. F/Lt Frank Howell, DFC*, was born at Golders Green in London on 25th January 1912. Frank Howell took a short service commission in the Royal Air Force. He trained at AST Antsy 1st March - 30th April 1937, moving on to No 3 FTS at Grantham from 1st May - 7th August 37. On 3rd May 37 he was made Acting Pilot Officer. 1px-trans.gif, 43 bytesTraining was completed at South Cerney from 24th August - 26th November 37, whereupon he was posted to No 25 (F) Squadron at Hawkinge, flying Hawker Demon aircraft on 3rd December 37. He became a Pilot Officer on 1st March 1938. His next posting was to No 80 Sqdn flying Gloster Gladiators at Ismailia from 27th March 1938, during which time he was attached to No 4 FTS at Abu Sueir from 13th June - 25th September 38. No 80 Sqdn moved to Amiriya on 24th September 1938, returning to Ismailia on 9th October 38. On 16th January 1939, they again moved to Helwan, where they remained until Frank was posted back to the UK on 28th August 1939. 1px-trans.gif, 43 bytesHe was stationed at the Uxbridge depot from the 29th August 1939 until being posted to 609 (West Riding) Squadron at Drem on 14th November 1939. On 1st September 39 his promotion to Flying Officer had taken place, and it was with this rank that he joined the squadron. From Drem, Frank followed the movements of the squadron, going to Kinloss from 5th December 1939 - 12th January 1940, whereupon they returned to Drem until 19th May 40. From Drem, the Squadron moved south to Northolt, where they stayed until moving to Middle Wallop in Hampshire on the 4th July 40, finally heading to Warmwell in Dorset on 29th November 40. 1px-trans.gif, 43 bytesFrank Howell force landed Spitfire N3203 on 30th May 40 at Martlesham (with no damage) due to foul weather. His first combat came the next day, 31st May 40, while flying an offensive patrol at 15,000ft over Dunkirk in Spitfire N3024. He attacked a Junkers Ju88 with Joe Dawson, which is believed to have crashed, and, in conjunction with John Dundas, attacked a Heinkel He111, setting fire to the starboard engine. Both were claimed as 'Damaged Probable'. The following day 1Jun40, again over Dunkirk, he attacked another He111, seeing no result, before attacking 3 more and setting the starboard engine alight on one of them - claiming one 'Damaged' and one 'Damaged Probable'. 1px-trans.gif, 43 bytesThis was also the day, 1Jun40, he became 'A' Flight Commander. He was amongst the party that escorted Winston Churchill to France and back on 11th and 13th June 40. On 12th July 40, Red Section, consisting of Flt-Lt Frank Howell in R6691, Fg-Off Paul Edge in R6636 and Plt-Off Johnny Curchin R6634 shot down a Heinkel 111 (later only credited with a 'Probable'). On 18th July 40, whilst flying Spitfire R6634, he shared in the destruction of a Junkers Ju88 of 1/KG54, engaging it 5 miles off Swanage. His aircraft was hit in the glycol tank by return fire and he baled out uninjured, landing 4 miles south of Poole at 15.15 hours and being picked up by the Royal Navy. Paul Edge was also shot down, and the aircraft was finally shot down by Alan Feary. 1px-trans.gif, 43 bytesHe was scrambled on 13th August 40 in R6691 and flying at 18,000ft saw "50 plus Ju87's with Escort". He promptly shot down 2 of them. On August 15th 1940, in his own words: "Middle Wallop attacked again by 12 Ju88's. Took off as a salvo hit hangar and chased a Ju88 to Warmwell, and shot it down in flames". On the 25th August 1940, flying X4104 he damaged two Messerschmitt 110's in head on attacks. He was credited on this day with 1 Bf110 'Destroyed' in X4234. On the 3rd September 1940 he was promoted to Flight Lieutenant. 1px-trans.gif, 43 bytesOn 7th September 1940, whilst patrolling Northolt - Brooklands at 20,000ft in R6691, he encountered a large formation of Messerschmitt 110's. Having shot one down, he then spotted a large formation of Ju88's and attacked one, setting its engine on fire, before attacking another, on which he observed no result - although the cine-gun film shows a fire starting. He was also shot at by another Spitfire during this engagement. He was credited with one Bf110 Destroyed, and 2 Ju88's Probably Destroyed. Patrolling Brooklands at 20,000ft in R6691 on 15th September 1940, he took 2 snap shots at a formation of Dornier Do17's with escort, with no visible result. During his second patrol that day, over Hastings, he shot down 1 Dornier Do17 out of a formation of 18. On 7th October 1940, he force landed Spitfire X4472 at Shaftesbury after combat with Messerschmitt Bf 109's over Yeovil. He had been hit in the oil tank, but had shot down a Bf110. On 21st October 1940, in conjunction with Sydney Hill, he shared in the destruction of a Ju88 which had been machine-gunning Old Sarum. This was 609 Squadrons 100th Kill. 4 Days later, on the 25th October 1940, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. rom 609, Frank was posted to Filton on 23rd February 1941 to form and command 118 Squadron on Spitfires. Whilst with 118, Howell claimed the squadron's first victory, a Heinkel He111 on the night of July 7th. He also claimed a 'Probable' Bf109 and shared another on October 13th. 118 subsequently moved to Colerne, Warmwell and Ibsley, from where Frank was posted on 23rd October 1941, joining HMS Prince of Wales and heading out to the Far East theatre of war. During his command of 118 Sqn as an actinbg Squadron Leader, Frank won a bar to his DFC. "The King has approved the following awards in recognition of gallantry displayed in flying operations against the enemy:- Bat to DFC: Acting/Sq Ldr. F. J. Howell, D.F.C. 118 Sq. This officer has displayed fine qualities as a fighter pilot, combined with outstanding leadership and talents for organisation. He has played a large part in raising and maintaining a high standard of efficiency in his squadron, which had distinguished itself. He has destroyed at least ten enemy aircraft and possibly a further seven." His promotion to Squadron Leader came through on 1st December. Joining 243 Sqdn on 6th December, which was reforming at Kallang with Brewster Buffalos, he was almost immediately posted a few days later to Headquarters Fighter Command in Singapore. He was on the Prince of Wales when it was sunk on 10th December, and was taken prisoner by Japanese forces on 16th February 1942 whilst trying to reach Sumatra - being held at Muntok, Palembane, Singapore, Changi, until 15th August 1945. Frank returned to the UK, arriving back at Cosford on 24th October. 1px-trans.gif, 43 bytesFrom 18th March - 9th April 1946, Frank Howell was posted to No. 110 Refresher Unit at Wittering, before moving on to No 17 SFTS at Coleby Grange until 24th May. On 17th August he was sent to HQ Fighter Command until 30th June 1947, becoming Squadron Leader again on 15th November, before a posting to No 1 Squadron at Tangmere on IF Course 5th -23rd January 1948. He was subsequently posted to take over as Commanding Officer of No 54 Squadron at Odiham on 12th January, which was equipped with De Havilland Vampire's. 1px-trans.gif, 43 bytesOn 9th May 1948, Frank Howell was making a cine film of his squadron's aircraft, when the wingtip of one of them struck him, severing his jugular vein. Squadron Leader Frank Howell, DFC, bled to death before he could be treated.
Howes, P. Click the name above to see a profile of Howes, P.    Died : 18 / 9 / 1940	Howes, P. Killed September 18th 1940
Hudson, Frank Click the name above to see a profile of Hudson, Frank    Died : ?	Hudson, Frank Born 4th November 1897, Captain Neville Hudson flew with 15 Squadron during 1916. On 30 March 1916, Hudson was awarded the military cross; the citation text recounted how he had pressed on to complete a mission after suffering a serious head wound. In early 1917, Hudson transferred to 54 Squadron as a flight commander flying a Sopwith Pup. On 27 January 1917, Hudson destroyedenemy observation plane . He drove down another observation craft on 13 February. On 5 April, 1917 Hudosn teamed up with reginald Charley, Maurice D \St, and another pilot; thefour pilots became known as Balloon Busters, destroying an observation balloon at Gouy. Hudson went on to drive two more enemy planes down, and destroy another, but on the 13th of July 1917 Captain Frank Neville Hudson was shot down between near Ostend by Jasta 20. London Gazette entry for Military Cross award, 30th March 1916. Second Lieutenant Frank Neville Hudson, The Buffs (East Kent Regiment) and Royal Flying Corps. For conspicuous gallantry and skill on several occasions, notably when, although severely wounded in the head, he successfully completed his aerial reconnaissance. After recrossing the line and landing at an aerodrome, he at once lost consciousness. This young officer is only 18 years of age, but has many times driven off enemy machines and twice forced them to the ground.
Hyde, George Click the name above to see a profile of Hyde, George    Died : ?	Hyde, George Born in 1893, Captain George Arthur Hyde originally served in the King's Royal Rifle Corps but transferred to the Royal Flying Corps, where he underwent pilot training and in February 1917 was posted to 54 Squadron. 54 squadron were flying at the time Sopwith Pups. Hyde scored his first aerial victory on the 17th of March 1917. Captain George Arthur Hyde became flight commander of A Flight in October 1917 and by the 18th of October, he became an ace with five victories along when with Second Lieutenant Michael Gonne, he shot down an Albatros D.V. This was his only destruction of an enemy aircraft - the other four victories were driven down out of control. Prior to becoming a pilot, he had been awarded the Military Cross.
Kemp, J. L. Click the name above to see a profile of Kemp, J. L.	Kemp, J. L. Pilot Officer J.L.Kemp of No 54 Squadron was forced to bale out of his Spitfire I (N3184) because of engine failure on July 21st 1940 East of Clacton. He was rescued by the Navy.
Kitto, Francis Click the name above to see a profile of Kitto, Francis    Died : ?	Kitto, Francis Born 1st January 1897, Francis Kitto flew Sopwith 1.5 Strutters with 43 Squadron, claiming three victories between March and August 1917. By March 1918, he was flying Sopwith Camels with 54 Squadron, claiming the remaining 6 of his 9 victories between then and July 1918. He was awarded the Military Cross, gazetted on 22nd June 1918. London Gazetee entry for award of Military Cross, 22nd June 1918 For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. While engaged in attacking ground targets with machine-gun fire and bombs he observed a large party of troops, amongst whom he dropped the remainder of his bombs with the most excellent results. On a later occasion he attacked a formation of enemy scouts, and having caused one of these to crash to the ground, he pursued another and, attacked it eleven miles behind the enemy's lines, bringing it to the ground and destroying it. In addition to these he has shot down two other hostile machines, and has shown throughout, the greatest determination and dash.
Klozinski, W. Click the name above to see a profile of Klozinski, W.	Klozinski, W.
Krepski, W. Click the name above to see a profile of Krepski, W.    Died : 7 / 9 / 1940	Krepski, W. Missing September 7th 1940
Lawrence, N. A. Click the name above to see a profile of Lawrence, N. A.    Died : 22 / 8 / 1958	Lawrence, N. A. Sergeant N.A.Lawrence of No 54 Squadron on the 15th of August he was shot down his Spitfire I (N3097) and crashed in the sea off Dover, he was rescued by the Navy. Unusually, he left the RAF during the war, in mid-1943.
Leathart, James Click the name above to see a profile of Leathart, James    Died : 0 / 0 / 1998	Leathart, James After flight training, he joined No.54 Squadron flying Gauntlets. He became the commanding officer of No.54 Squadron as they re-equipped with Spitfire MkIs. In a remarkable event, he was awarded the DSO when he rescued the stranded CO of No.74 Sqn. Commandeering a Miles Master training aircraft, he flew to France escorted by other pilots from No.54 Sqn, and rescued the CO before returning across the Channel. It was for this action that he was awarded the DSO in June 1940. Died in 1998. Citation for the DSO During May, 1940, this officer led his squadron on a large number of offensive patrols over- Northern France. On one occasion an attack was made on a formation of no less than 60 enemy aircraft. In company with his squadron he has shot down fifteen Messerschmitts, and possibly one Heinkel in and one Junkers 88, during the period mentioned. He also flew a trainer aircraft to Calais Marck aerodrome to rescue a squadron commander who had been shot down there but was uninjured. Whilst taking off, after the rescue, an attack was made by twelve Messerschmitt 109s but with great coolness and skilful evasive tactics Flight Lieutenant Leathart succeeded in shaking off the enemy and landing again without damage. Subsequently, he took off and flew back to England unescorted. This officer has displayed great courage, determination and splendid leadership.
Lockwood, J. C. Click the name above to see a profile of Lockwood, J. C.    Died : 3 / 3 / 1941	Lockwood, J. C. Killed March 3rd 1941
Maddocks, Henry Click the name above to see a profile of Maddocks, Henry    Died : ?	Maddocks, Henry Born in 1898, Henry Maddocks flew with No.54 Squadron, claiming 7 victories between August 1917 and February 1918, including his final two victories on the 3rd of February. He was awarded the Military Cross, which was gazetted on 23rd April 1918 : London Gazette entry for Military Cross, 23rd April 1918. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. Whilst attacking two hostile aeroplanes he saw an enemy machine attacking one of his patrol. He at once attacked the enemy machine, which was seen to crash. On one occasion during a fight between seven enemy machines and a patrol of our scouts, he engaged one of the enemy machines causing it to drop from 6,000 feet to 1,000 feet, where it caught fire and dived vertically down. On two other occasions he drove down an enemy machine after a short fight. He has done consistent and continual good work.
Martel, Ludvik Click the name above to see a profile of Martel, Ludvik    Died : 25 / 4 / 2010	Martel, Ludvik Ludwik Alfred Martel was born in 1919 in Piotrkow in central Poland. Yearning to fly, Martel took a gliding course and in 1937, having compled education in a state technical school in Lodz, enlisted in the Polish Air Force. Martel was a cadet pilot when Germany invaded Poland on September 1, 1939. aftre a brave resistance the personnel of the Polish Air Forcel were ordered to make for neutral Romania. Martel escaped from the Romanian internment on September 29, and Martel travelled to France via the Balkans. There the Polish Armed Forces were being re-formed under General Sikorski. Posted to Britain, Martel was assigned to 54 Squadron Martel arrived in England in early 1940 and was commissioned in the RAF in May and transferred to the PAF on August 6. He joined 54 Squadron on August 10, 1940, during the height of the Battle of Britain. Shortly afterwards on the 28th October Martel was transferred to 603 Squadron, based at Hornchurch, flying Spitfires. He claimed a Bf 109 destroyed over the English Channel on 5 October. and a few days later he was forced down by an Me109, suffering shrapnel wounds. He was posted to the Polish 317 (City of Wilno) Squadron on 19 March 1941. He was rested on 28 January 1942, going to 58 OTU, as an instructor, before returning to 317 Squadron on 25 August. On 13 March he was posted with other Polish pilots to form the Polish Fighting Team, otherwise known as Skalskis Circus. They operated in the Western Desert from 17 March to 12 May and destroyed 30 enemy aircraft. He damaged a FW 190 on 4 April and destroyed a Bf 109 and damaged a Mc 200 on the 20th. He returned to 317 Squadron on 22 July 1943. He was posted to 16 FTS, Newton on 20 August but went back to 317 Squadron on 4 November, as a Flight Commander. Tour-expired, he was posted to HQ PAF on 12 September 1944.. Martel was released from service as a flight lieutenant. For a time he flew crop-spraying aircraft in East Africa and then in London he ran a successful property maintenance business. He was a prominent member and trustee of the Polish Air Force Association, looking after the welfare of its veterans and promoting fellowship with the Royal Air Force Association. Martel was decorated with the Virtuti Militari (5th Class) and with the Polish Cross of Valour. Sadly, we have learned that Ludvik Martel passed away on 25th April 2010
Matthews, H. K. F. Click the name above to see a profile of Matthews, H. K. F.    Died : 7 / 10 / 1940	Matthews, H. K. F. Killed October 7th 1940
Maxwell, Reginald Click the name above to see a profile of Maxwell, Reginald    Died : ?	Maxwell, Reginald Born 20th July 1894, Reginald Stuart Maxwell claimed four victories in 1916 flying FE2b with 25 and 20 Squadrons. He later moved to 54 Squadron flying Sopwith Camels, and claimed a further 5 victories during 1918. He was gazetted for the DFC on 8th February 1919. London Gazette entry for the Distinguished Flying Cross, 8th February 1919 On 16th November, on a low bombing raid against a railway station, this officer led his whole squadron to within 100 feet over the objective, thus enabling them to drop their bombs with the greatest possible effect on the trains, transport, etc., in the station. After dropping these bombs he led the formation against troops, etc., crowded on a main road, causing great confusion and inflicting heavy casualties. His magnificent example inspires all who serve in his squadron.
McMullen, D Click the name above to see a profile of McMullen, D	McMullen, D
Meares, S. T. Click the name above to see a profile of Meares, S. T.    Died : 15 / 11 / 1941	Meares, S. T. Flight Lieutenant S.T.Meares was a member of the staff at HQ Fighter Command during the Battle of Britain. It is thought that Meares flew one sortie with No 54 Squadron from Hornchurch on the August 12th therefore qualifying him for the Battle of Britain clasp. Meares was awarded the D.F.C. on the 22nd of July 1941. Posted to a training command, he was killed after being involved in a mid-air collision on the 15th of November 1941. He was 25.
Mildren, P. R. Click the name above to see a profile of Mildren, P. R.    Died : 11 / 2 / 1941	Mildren, P. R. Killed February 11th 1941
Morrison, N. Click the name above to see a profile of Morrison, N.    Died : 24 / 2 / 1941	Morrison, N. Killed February 24th 1941
Mottram, Roy Click the name above to see a profile of Mottram, Roy    Died : 31 / 8 / 1941	Mottram, Roy Pilot Officer Roy Mottram from No 92 Squadron was wounded when he crashed and burned his Spitfire I (N3193) after combat September 18th 1940 over Hollingbourne, Kent. Mottram was killed in action in a Spitfire V on the 31st of August 1941 flying with No 54 Squadron on a fighter sweep over France. He is buried at Merville, France.
Noble, W. J. Click the name above to see a profile of Noble, W. J.    Died : 1979	Noble, W. J. Passed away 1979.
Norwell, J. K. Click the name above to see a profile of Norwell, J. K.	Norwell, J. K. Sgt J.K.Norwell of No 54 Squadron scored four kills during the Battle of Britain. He was awarded the A.F.C. on January 1st 1945.
Oxspring, Bobby Click the name above to see a profile of Oxspring, Bobby    Died : 8 / 8 / 1989	Oxspring, Bobby Robert Wardlow Oxspring was born in Sheffield on 22nd May 1919, the son of a World War 1 decorated pilot of the same name. He joined the RAF in March 1938 on a short service commission and joined 66 Sqn in the December and started operational flying in July 1940, flying throughout the Battle of Britain. His Spitfire X4170 was shot down by Bf109s over Kent on 25th October, baling out with slight injuries (Caterpillar Club Badge). He was awarded the DFC on 8th November. September 1942 saw him awarded a bar to the DFC. Moving to Mediterranean combat, it is thought probable that Oxspring was the pilot who shot down renowned German ace Anton Haffner of JG51 on 2 January 1943. Oxspring led his squadron to be the highest scoring in the North African theatre, and survived his second shooting down of the war, Oxspring was awarded a second bar to his DFC in February 1943. During the war Squadron Leader Oxspring had registered 13 solo kills with 2 shared, 2 probable kills and 4 solo V-1 Flying Bombs destroys and 1 shared. In 1946 he was awarded the Dutch Vligerkruis by Royal Decree of the 31st October 1946 appearing in the London Gazette on 10th January 1947. He was awarded an AFC in January 1949 after leading a team of 54 Sqn Vampires to Canada and the USA, the first jet aircraft to cross the Atlantic. He retired from the service with the rank of Group Captain, having been Station Commander of RAF Gatow, Germany, in 1968 and settled in Lincolnshire near to RAF Cranwell. He died on 8th August 1989. Citation for the Distinguished Flying Cross : One day in September, 1940, Flight Lieutenant Oxspring was engaged on an offensive patrol with his squadron. Whilst acting as rear guard, he sighted and engaged several Messerschmitt 109s 3,000 feet above. After driving them off, he led his section in an attack against a large formation of enemy bombers and succeeded in destroying a Dornier 17 at short range and also in damaging two Heinkels IIIs. He has at all times led his section with skill and determination, and has destroyed six enemy aircraft. Citation for the Bar to the Distinguished Flying Cross : This squadron commander has rendered much valuable service. His skill, whether in attacks on the enemy's ground targets and shipping or in air combat, has been of a high order. He has destroyed at least 7 enemy aircraft. Citation for the 2nd Bar to the Distinguished Flying Cross : During initial operations from forward airfields in North Africa Squadron Leader Oxspring led his formation on many sorties. He destroyed 1 enemy aircraft, bringing his total victories to 8. His outstanding devotion to duty and fine fighting qualities have been worthy of high praise.
Price, R. B. Click the name above to see a profile of Price, R. B.    Died : 15 / 11 / 1941	Price, R. B. Killed November 15th 1941**
Robbins, R. H. Click the name above to see a profile of Robbins, R. H.	Robbins, R. H. Sergeant R.H.Robbins was with No 54 Squadron in July 1940. He was posted to No 66 Squadron in September. On September 14th 1940 he was shot down in his Spitfire I (X4327) over Maidstone and was seriously wounded.
Robertson, B. L. Click the name above to see a profile of Robertson, B. L.    Died : 12 / 2 / 1942	Robertson, B. L. Killed February 12th 1942**
Rose, Stuart Nigel Click the name above to see a profile of Rose, Stuart Nigel    Died : 10 / 9 / 2017	Rose, Stuart Nigel Originally from Elswick in the north east of England, Rose moved south to join the RAFVR in March 1939, called up at the outbreak of war he was commissioned in June 1940 joining No.602 Sqn in June 1940 flying Spitfires and serving with the unit throughout the Battle of Britain, claiming three victories. Squadron Leader Nigel Rose was then posted to 54 Sqn at Hornchurch in September 1941 before becoming an instructor in 1942, and also serving in the Middle East. Afterwards he moved to No.54 Sqn before taking on positions in training units.
Salter, Ernest Click the name above to see a profile of Salter, Ernest    Died : 23 / 3 / 1959	Salter, Ernest Born 9th November 1897 in Ontario, Canada, Ernest Salter scored 9 victories in the Sopwith Camel between June and August 1918 including a hat-trick of victories on the 21st of July. He became the highest scoring Ace with 54 Squadron before being badly injured on 2nd September 1918. He passed away on 23rd March 1959.
Sanders, D. J. Click the name above to see a profile of Sanders, D. J.    Died : 7 / 9 / 1940	Sanders, D. J. Killed September 7th 1940
Seares, Mike Click the name above to see a profile of Seares, Mike    Died : 8 / 2005	Seares, Mike Mike Seares joined the RAF in 1984 and graduated from flying training with HRH Prince Feisal in 1988 and joined 54(F) Sqn. He flew Jaguars during the 1991 Gulf War before becoming a QWI and flight commander on 6Sqn. He achieved 3,000 hours on the type during the squadron's diamond-nine flypast at the Families' Day. One of the youngest squadron commanders in the RAF, he assumed command of 6 Sqn at RAF Coltishall in 2002. He was promoted to Headquarters Strike Command at High Wycombe, Bucks, before being made Group Captain in November 2004. Sadly, Mike Seares died in August 2005.
Secretan, D. Click the name above to see a profile of Secretan, D.	Secretan, D.
Shand, M. M. Click the name above to see a profile of Shand, M. M.    Died : 22 / 12 / 2007	Shand, M. M. Pilot Officer M.M.Shand a New Zealander joined No 54 Squadron on the 24th of August 1940 with little experience of flying in Spitfires, he had no previous training at all in combat. He flew as No 2 to Al Deere on his first outing. He suffered injuries on August 25th 1940 when his Spitfire I (R6969) was attacked over Dover. Michael Moray Shand was born in Wellington, New Zealand, on February 20 1915 and educated at Nelson College. He was working in the fruit industry when, in early 1939, he applied for a short service commission in the RNZAF, starting his pilot training later that year. After gaining his wings he sailed for England in June 1940. The RAF was desperately short of fighter pilots, and Shand was rushed through training. After just 20 hours' flying on the Spitfire, during which time he never fired its guns, he was posted to No 54 Squadron. The squadron was based at Hornchurch, in Essex, and when he arrived in late August, the Battle of Britain was reaching a climax. He flew his first sortie as wingman to the outstanding New Zealand ace, Al Deere, who told him to stay close and watch was going on. Three days after his arrival Shand was on an evening patrol over Dover when a Messerschmitt Bf 109 attacked him, damaging his aircraft. He managed to crash-land on the airfield at Manston, but had been badly wounded in the arm. He spent several months in hospital. Shand returned to operations in October 1941 with No 485 (RNZAF) Squadron, flying Spitfire Vs from Kenley, in Surrey. The squadron was heavily involved in operations over northern France, escorting bomber formations and attacking road transports. Shand was appointed a flight commander in May 1942, and he and his pilots provided withdrawal cover during Operation Jubilee, the raid on Dieppe. By September he had flown 60 operations over France and was awarded a DFC, the citation describing him as "a skilful pilot and fearless leader". On November 28 Shand led a formation of six Spitfires on a low-level sweep off the Dutch coast seeking targets of opportunity. They successfully attacked a tanker-barge on a canal and, as they returned, Shand and his wingman went down to shoot up a train. Two Focke Wulf 190s attacked them. Shand was shot down and quickly captured. Within a few weeks he arrived at Stalag Luft III, 100 miles south-east of Berlin. It was Goering's "show camp", administered and guarded by the Luftwaffe. After the Great Escape, Shand remained at Stalag Luft III until the camp was evacuated in January 1945, the PoWs being forced to march westwards in the harshest winter for many years. In May he was liberated. He returned to England before going home to New Zealand in September.
Steadman, D. J. Click the name above to see a profile of Steadman, D. J.	Steadman, D. J.
Stewart, Charles Click the name above to see a profile of Stewart, Charles    Died : 15 / 3 / 1941	Stewart, Charles Pilot Officer Charles Stewart a New Zealander from No 54 Squadron baled out of his Spitfire I (P9389) on August 24th 1940. His aircraft was damaged over the Thames Estuary in combat. The Spitfire crashed at Kingsdown. Later in the war he was killed in action.
Stewart, Oliver Click the name above to see a profile of Stewart, Oliver    Died : 1976	Stewart, Oliver Oliver Stewart was born in London on the 26th November 1896 and was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Middlesex Regiment in October 1914. In 1915 Stewart transferred to the Royal Flying Corps. After a brief stint with 22 Squadron, he was transferred 54 Squadron and flew the Sopwith Pup. Oliver Stewart became a ace with five victries between 6 April and 25 September 1917; and recieved the military cross on the 17th of September 1917. Stewart returned to England, was promoted to major in June 1918, and given command of the Aeroplane and Armament Experimental Establishment. Major Oliver Stewart also received an Air Force Cross. He passed away in 1976. London Gazette entry for the Military Cross, 17th September 1917 For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He has done consistent good work for six months, both on escorts and offensive patrols, and has displayed great fearlessness and skill during severe fighting at close range with enemy machines, successfully holding his own, although on several occasions outnumbered by them.
Stokoe, J. Click the name above to see a profile of Stokoe, J.	Stokoe, J. Sergeant J.Stokoe of No 603 Squadron was wounded on September 2nd 1940. He had been in combat with fighters and baled out of his Spitfire I (N3056). He later joined No 54 Squadron and was promoted to Pilot Officer.
Strugnell, William Click the name above to see a profile of Strugnell, William    Died : ?	Strugnell, William William Victor Strugnell had a long career in the Royal Air Force stretching thro WW1 and WW2. On 27th June 1915, Sergeant Strugnell was commissioned a second lieutenant. On 5th February 1916, he piloted a Morane Saulnier and drove down a Aviatik C.1 reconnaissance plane for his first victory. On 2nd June 1916, he was awarded the Military Cross. William Victor Strugnell spent some time as a instructor before returning to flying duties in a Sopwith Pup with 54 squadron as flight commander of A Flight. On 19 March 1917, he shared in the setting afire of a German reconnaissance plane. On 14th April he destroyed a German reconnaisance aircraft and on 1st May 1917 sent an Albatros D.III out of control. On 11th May 1917, he cooperated with fellow aces Oliver Sutton and Maurice Scott, and three other pilots in destroying a recon plane; Strugnell then single handedly destroyed an Albatros D.III. London Gazette entry for Military Cross, 3rd June 1916 For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. While leading an offensive patrol he attacked and brought down a hostile machine. Later, in the same patrol, he brought down a second machine. In all he has accounted for five machines and a kite balloon.
Sutton, Oliver Click the name above to see a profile of Sutton, Oliver    Died : 1978	Sutton, Oliver Born 28th June 1899, Oliver Sutton scored 7 victories in WW1, all but one of which were in Sopwith Pups of No.54 Sqn, with his 7th victory scored on 15th August 1918 in a Sopwith Camel of No.28 Sqn. He was awarded the Military Cross in July 1917, and passed away in 1978. London Gazette entry for award of Military Cross, 26th July 1917 For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. On at least eight separate occasions he showed great determination in attacking hostile aircraft, destroying them or driving them down out of control, and he has also done very good work in other flights by preventing hostile aircraft from getting on the tails of other machines. On one occasion, though his gun jammed, he dived three times and drove off an enemy machine.
Swanwick, George W Click the name above to see a profile of Swanwick, George W    Died : 4 / 1 / 2011	Swanwick, George W George Swanwick was born on 10th November 1915 and was an air-gunner on Wallaces and Hinds with 504 squadron at RAF Hucknall during the 1930s. In May 1936, 504 became part of the Auxiliary Air Force, and in October 1938 converted to a fighter unit, equipped with Gauntlets. In 1938 George re-trained as a pilot, and was promoted to Sergeant Pilot in August 1939. In May 1940 George Swanwick joined 7 BGS, and on 7th September was posted to 54 Squadron at Catterick flying Spitfires. He then went to 41 Squadron at Hornchurch. Commissioned in late 1941, he was posted to 222 Squadron at North Weald in April 1942 as a Flight Commander. In July George Swanwick joined 603 Squadron in Malta and in September 1942, George was posted to 7 OTU at Port Sudan as Flight Commander. In July 1943, he joined 81 Squadron in Malta as a supernumerary. George was invalided back to the UK and following his discharge from hospital in 1944, George held various staff appointments until the end of the war. George Swanwick was granted a Permament Commission in 1949 and retired on 30th April 1970, as a Wing Commander. Sadly, George Swanwick passed away on 4th January 2011.
Switon, L. Click the name above to see a profile of Switon, L.	Switon, L. Sergeant L.Switon from Poland joined No 54 Squadron in Spitfire's on August 9th 1940, but was only with them a week before being posted to No 303 Squadron where he flew Hurricane's.
Tew, Phil H. Click the name above to see a profile of Tew, Phil H.    Died : 0 / 0 / 1984	Tew, Phil H. Flight Sergeant Phill H.Tew of No 54 Squadron shot down a Bf 110 over Dunkirk in May. On August 8th 1940 Tew accounted for a Bf 109 and a Bf 110. P.H.Tew was awarded the A.F.C. on June 10th 1948.
Turley-George, D. R. Click the name above to see a profile of Turley-George, D. R.	Turley-George, D. R. Flight Lieutenant D.R.Turley-George joined No 54 Squadron on July 15th 1940. He was hot down twice by Bf 109's during the Battle, the first time was on July 25th 1940 when he crash landed his Spitfire I (P9387) near Dover after combat with Bf 109's. The second time on the 12th of August when he was wounded in the head and eye. He was grounded for over a year as a result of his injuries. He was awarded the D.F.C. on October 30th 1944.
Way, B. H. Click the name above to see a profile of Way, B. H.    Died : 25 / 7 / 1940	Way, B. H. Flight Lieutenant B.H."Wonky Way" Way of No 54 Squadron shot down a Bf 109 and was then shot down and killed over the Channel near Dover in his Spitfire I (R6707) by a Bf 109 on July 25th 1940. He was aged 22 and is buried in Belgium. He is Buried at Oostduikerke Communal Cemetery, Belgium.
Wright, Ricky Click the name above to see a profile of Wright, Ricky    Died : 5 / 11 / 2007	Wright, Ricky 605 Sqn Battle of Britain, Officer Commanding 54(F) Sqn Vampire 1948-1949. Eric William Wright was born on September 21st 1919 at Cherry Hinton, Cambridge, and went to the Cambridge County School and the Technical College. Wright joined the RAF Volunteer Reserve in June 1939 and was called up when he had completed his training as a pilot. As a sergeant pilot Wright flew Hurricanes over south-east England during the Battle of Britain; Wright joined No 605 (County of Warwick) Squadron in July 1940, a few days before it left its Scottish base for Croydon. He saw a great deal of action during the summer of 1940, and in the early days of September he shared in the destruction of a Messerschmitt Bf 110 fighter and a Dornier 17 bomber. On September 15, the climax of the Battle, and a day commemorated as Battle of Britain Day, Wright shot down a Dornier 17 over Maidstone and by the end of the year he had accounted for six enemy aircraft, probably destroyed three more and damaged a further six. At the end of November he was awarded an immediate DFM. Wright was made a flight commander of No.232 Squadron in 1941 and went to India. After the Japanese attacks on Malaya the squadron embarked on the aircraft carrier Indomitable, flying off to Java at the end of January 1942 en route to reinforce the beleaguered squadrons at Singapore. Within a week Wright's CO had been killed and Wright was promoted to squadron leader. He damaged a Japanese bomber off the west coast of Singapore, but 232 was soon forced to evacuate to Sumatra. Wright was made CO of a composite squadron made up of the remaining Hurricanes. They were hopelessly outnumbered, and losses mounted. With only a few aircraft left, on March 1st 1942 Wright was ordered to pass his remaining Hurricanes to a group selected to stay behind and take his remaining pilots to Tjilatjap, on the south coast, from where they were to board a boat for Australia. Two Ford V8s were commandeered, and the party drove through the jungle at night, only to find that the last boat had been sunk. In vain they searched along the coast for other craft. A few days later the island fell to the Japanese, and Wright and his pilots were captured and spent more than three years in Japanese prison camps. After the war Wright was repatriated back to the UK via Guam and the US finally returning to England onboard the liner Queen Mary. Wright resumed his career as a fighter pilot flying the early jets and was a member of the RAFs official aerobatic team, No.247 Squadron, flying Vampires. In April 1948 he flew one of the six single-engine Vampire F3s of No.54 Squadron which made the first Atlantic crossing by jet aircraft. On returning back the the UK, Wright was appointed to command No 54. After spending a year at the Central Fighter Establishment Wright was appointed wing leader at Linton-on-Ouse with command of three fighter squadrons. In late 1956 he converted to the Hunter and took the Tangmere Wing to Cyprus for the Suez operations. He was then given command of the RAFs first Bloodhound ground-to-air missile squadron. In 1960 he was promoted to group captain and spent three years at Headquarters Fighter Command, where he was heavily involved in the introduction into service of the supersonic Lightning fighter. Wright was appointed CBE in 1964. He also received a Kings Commendation for Valuable Services in the Air and the Air Efficiency Award. Air Commodore Ricky Wright CBE DFC DFM retired form the Royal Air Force in 1973. Sadly Air Commodore Ricky Wright passed away on the 5th of November 2007 aged 88.