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No.249 Sqn RAF |
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Name : No.249 Sqn RAF Founded : 18th August 1918 Disbanded : 24th February 1969 Country : UK Fate : Disbanded 24th February 1969 More Details : Gold Coast Pugnis et cacibus - With fist and heels |
Known Service Details : | |||||||
Pilot or Aircrew | Rank | Start of Service | End of Service | Known Dates | Aircraft | Airframes | Notes |
Flight Lieutenant | unknown | unknown | 07th September 1940 | ||||
Flight Lieutenant | unknown | unknown | 05th September 1940 | ||||
Sergeant | September 1940 | 10th October 1940 | Killed in Action | ||||
unknown | unknown | ||||||
Sergeant | unknown | unknown | 07th September 1940 | ||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | unknown | 02nd September 1940 | ||||
unknown | unknown | ||||||
December 1940 | 25th February 1941 | ||||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | 27th September 1940 | 27th September 1940 | ||||
Sergeant | unknown | unknown | 11th September 1940 | ||||
Sergeant | 11th September 1940 | unknown | |||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | 7th September 1940 | |||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | unknown | 06th September 1940 | ||||
unknown | unknown | ||||||
Sergeant | unknown | unknown | 07th September 1940 | ||||
Squadron Leader | unknown | 21st August 1940 | 16th August 1940 | ||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | 16th August 1940 | 16th August 1940 | ||||
Pilot Officer | September 1940 | unknown | 28th September 1940 | ||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | unknown | 15th September 1940 | ||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | unknown | 07th September 1940 | ||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | unknown | 10th January 1941 | ||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | 27th September 1940 | 07th September 1940 | ||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | 30th October 1940 | Killed in Action | ||||
unknown | unknown | ||||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | unknown | 07th November 1940 | ||||
Flight Lieutenant | unknown | unknown | 16th August 1940 | ||||
14th September 1940 | unknown | 27th October 1940 | On October 21 he damaged a Dornier bomber,27th Oct 1940 r had a narrow escape. As he was taking off, the airfield at North Weald came under attack by bombers, and debris hit his aircraft, damaging the propeller. With the Hurricane shaking violently, he managed to circle the airfield and land. | ||||
Flight Lieutenant | unknown | 18th September 1940 | Killed in Action | ||||
Flight Lieutenant | unknown | 18th September 1940 | Killed in Action | ||||
unknown | unknown | ||||||
Adj | unknown | unknown | 12th October 1940 | ||||
Sergeant | unknown | unknown | 03rd September 1940 | ||||
Sergeant | unknown | unknown | 07th September 1940 | ||||
Sergeant | unknown | unknown | 05th December 1940 | ||||
Flight Officer | unknown | unknown | 07th September 1940 | ||||
unknown | unknown | ||||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | 7th April 1941 | 07th September 1940 | Killed in Action | |||
| Pilots and Aircrew for : No.249 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 | ||
| Barclay, Richard George Arthur Click the name above to see a profile of Barclay, Richard George Arthur
| Barclay, Richard George Arthur Serving with No.249 Squadron, Richard Barclay was shot down south of London on the 27th of September 1940, making a forced landing at West Malling. That day he had already claimed an Me109 and a Ju88, to add to his tally of one Me109, a damaged Do17, a damaged He111, a shared He111 and a shared Ju88. In the next two months he went on to claim a further three Me109 probables and a shared in another Me109, but on the 29th of November he was badly wounded in the legs, ankles and elbow after being shot down by an Me109. By September 1941 he had resumed flying with No.611 Sqn , but had scored no further victories when he was shot down during a sweep over St Omer, making a forced landing at Buyschoeure after being attacked by Me109s and breaking through high tension wires. Returning to flight as the commanding officer of No.238 Sqn fighting in North Africa, he claimed a further two victories on the 16th and 17th of July 1942 to become an Ace, with a total of 5 victories plus two shared, two damaged and four probable. Unfortunately, after his final victory he was killed when his Hurricane Mk.II was shot down on 17th July 1942. Some sources claim he was shot down by Luftwaffe Ace Werner Schroer, an Ace with 114 victories who survived the war and lived until 1985. | ||
| Barton, Robert Alexande "Butch" Click the name above to see a profile of Barton, Robert Alexande "Butch"
| Barton, Robert Alexande "Butch" After training as a pilot he joined No 41 Squadron, flying biplane fighters. Following the outbreak of war he joined the newly-formed No 249 Squadron, whose CO was Squadron Leader John Grandy, later Chief of the Air Staff and a Marshal of the RAF. In December 1940 Barton was promoted to take command of 249 Squadron, and he destroyed two more enemy fighters. In 1941 his squadron was ordered to prepare for service in Malta, and on May 19 its Hurricanes were transferred to Ark Royal in Gibraltar. Barton opened his account in Malta on June 3, when he shot down an Italian bomber, the squadron's first victory over the island. Five days later he destroyed another bomber, this time at night. At first light, he returned to the scene to search for the Italian crew. Two men were found and rescued. Under Barton's leadership, 249 Squadron was one of the most successful fighter squadrons on the island. But on July 31 he was lucky to survive when the engine of his Hurricane failed as he took off and he crashed through some sturdy Maltese walls. His injuries included second-degree burns, and he was kept in hospital for several weeks. Yet by September he was back leading the squadron, and was soon involved in a fierce battle with Italian fighters, during which he was credited with shooting down one and damaging another. On November 22 he achieved his final victory when he shot down a Macchi MC202 fighter near Gozo. After two years' continuous and intense fighting, in December he was rested and returned to England. His deputy, Tom Neil (himself a Battle of Britain ace), wrote: "I was very conscious of the squadron's debt to him. Small and slight in stature, in no way a heroic figure and unassuming almost to a fault, he was a wonderful leader and one of the best fighter pilots it would be my good fortune to meet." The citation for the Bar to Barton's DFC concluded that "his excellent leadership inspires the pilots under his command". Following a spell as chief instructor at a fighter training unit, Barton took command of the fighter airfield at Skaebrae in Orkney. He later commanded North Weald and served at HQ Fighter Command, where he was responsible for tactics. He was mentioned in despatches and in June 1945 was appointed OBE. In August 1945 he was posted to India, and then for two years helped in the creation of the Pakistan Air Force following Partition. Barton served on a number of fighter stations and commanded RAF Acklington in Northumberland. His final appointment was on the operations staff at the Air Ministry, and he retired in February 1959. | ||
| Barton, Robert Alexander 'Butch' Click the name above to see a profile of Barton, Robert Alexander 'Butch'
| Barton, Robert Alexander 'Butch' Arrived with 41 sqd 11 October 1936 Departed 15 May 1940 Flight Lieutenant R.A.Barton a Canadian of No 249 Squadron was shot down in his Hurricane I (V6625) over Shell Haven, Essex by a Bf 109 on 5th of September 1940, Barton was wounded. DFC (1940), Bar to DFC (1941), OBE (1945) Retired as Wg Cdr, Feb 1959; died 2 Sep 2010 | ||
| Bayley, E. A. Click the name above to see a profile of Bayley, E. A.
| Bayley, E. A. Sergeant E.A.Bayley was with No 32 Squadron and recorded two victories with them. E.A.Bayley was posted to No 249 Squadron in September, Bayley was killed on the 10th of October 1940, when his Hurricane I (V7537) crashed due to oxygen failure while on a routine patrol. | ||
| Beamish, F. V. Click the name above to see a profile of Beamish, F. V.
| Beamish, F. V. Group Captain F. Victor Beamish joined Cranwell in the Autumn of 1921 as a flight cadet where he learned to fly. Beamish was a born leader of men, a superb pilot and instructor. | ||
| Beard, John Maurice Bentley Click the name above to see a profile of Beard, John Maurice Bentley
| Beard, John Maurice Bentley Sergeant J.M.Beard of No 249 Squadron. On the 25th of October 1940 Sergeant Beard was wounded after combat with a Bf 109 over Linton, he baled out of his stricken Hurricane I (P3615). He began his flying at 9 E&RFTS Ansty on 10th July and trained on Avro Cadets and Hawker Harts. Called up on 2nd September 1939, he went to 2 FTS Brize Norton on 7th October. With the course completed he joined 609 Squadron at Drem on 15th December. From 9th April to 14th April 1940 he was detached to Farnborough for an oxygen course. Beard was posted to 249 Squadron on 14th May 1940 when it was reforming at Church Fenton. On 2nd September Beard damaged a Do17, on the 6th destroyed a Me109, on the 18th a Me110, on the 27th two Me109's, a Me110 and another probable and a Do17 damaged, on the 28th a Me109 destroyed and on 12th October a Me109 damaged. Beard was shot down by Me109's over North Kent on 25th October. He baled out, wounded, and was admitted to Pembury Hospital. His Hurricane, P3615, is believed to have crashed on Rankins Farm, Linton. He was posted from 249 to SHQ North Weald on 6th November as non-effective sick but later rejoined 249. Commissioned in December 1940, Beard was sent to RAF White Waltham for ferrying duties on 6th February 1941 as 249 prepared to re-equip with the Hurricane II. The next day he crashed whilst flying a Spitfire and went to hospital. On recovering he went directly to 52 OTU at Debden on 30th April 1941 as an instructor. He moved to CGS Sutton Bridge on 18th March 1942 as a founder-member of the Pilot Gunnery Wing there and took charge of the Live Firing Flight. The PGW later moved to Catfoss to become part of the Central Gunnery School. Beard was a member of the Fighter Command Test Board and made visits to the Gunnery Research Unit at Exeter in order to carry out tests on new pieces of armament equipment. He was awarded the AFC In May 1945 Beard went to Millfield to take charge of a Tempest rocket-training unit. In July he moved to RAF Charter Hall to be Station Admin Officer. He was sent to HQ 229 Group, New Delhi in October 1945 as Air Training Deputy. His last job was to arrange the return of 120 Lease-Lend Expeditors to the Americans at Munich in early 1946. He flew the last one back himself. Beard was released from the RAF back in the UK as a Squadron Leader. | ||
| Beazley, H. J. S. Click the name above to see a profile of Beazley, H. J. S. | Beazley, H. J. S. Pilot Officer H.J.S.Beazley of No 249 Squadron was shot down by a Bf 110 over Rochester on the 2nd of September 1940, he baled out of his Hurricane I (P2988) and was unhurt. | ||
| Beurling, George Click the name above to see a profile of Beurling, George | Beurling, George | ||
| Bouquillard, H. J. Click the name above to see a profile of Bouquillard, H. J.
| Bouquillard, H. J. Killed March 11th 1941 | ||
| Brzeski, Stanislaw Click the name above to see a profile of Brzeski, Stanislaw
| Brzeski, Stanislaw Stanislaw Brzeski came from Poland to join the RAF, and was with No.307 Sqn by 9th September 1940. He transferred to No.303 Sqn on 14th October 1940, then to No.245 Sqn on 8th November 1940. His final transfer of the year saw him join No.249 Sqn in December 1940. He scored his first victory with this squadron, claiming an Me109 on 10th February 1941. The bulk of his victories would be scored with No.317 Sqn, however, which he joined on 25th February 1941. Here he claimed victories over an Me109, a Ju88, an He111 and an Fw190, as well as half claims on an Me109 and a Ju88. In addition, he claimed an Fw190 probable and another damaged. He transferred to No.302 Sqn on 23rd April 1943, where he claimed a further two Fw190s and a half claim of an Fw190, plus another probable. This would be the last of his victories, as he moved to No.303 Sqn once again on 28th December 1943. On 21st May 1944, his Spitfire Mk.Vb EP461 of No.303 Sqn failed to return from a mission to the Pas de Calais. He was taken prisoner until the end of the war. He passed away on 3rd December 1972. | ||
| Burton, P. R. F. Click the name above to see a profile of Burton, P. R. F.
| Burton, P. R. F. Killed September 27th 1940 | ||
| Crossey, J. T. Click the name above to see a profile of Crossey, J. T. | Crossey, J. T. | ||
| Davidson, H. J. Click the name above to see a profile of Davidson, H. J.
| Davidson, H. J. Killed October 6th 1942 | ||
| Davis, W. L. Click the name above to see a profile of Davis, W. L. | Davis, W. L. Sergeant W.L.Davis of No 249 Squadron was wounded after his Hurricane I (V6682) was shot down near Kent on the 11th of September 1940. He later became a P.O.W after being shot down over enemy territory in 1941. | ||
| Evans, W. R. Click the name above to see a profile of Evans, W. R. | Evans, W. R. Sergeant W.R.Evans flew with No 249 Squadron and No 85 Squadron during the Battle of Britain. He joined to No 249 Squadron at North Weald on the 11th of September 1940. | ||
| Fleming, R. D. S. Click the name above to see a profile of Fleming, R. D. S.
| Fleming, R. D. S. Pilot Officer R.D.S.Fleming of No 249 Squadron was killed on the 7th of September 1940. His Hurricane I (R4114) was shot down near Maidstone, Kent. | ||
| Grandy, J. Click the name above to see a profile of Grandy, J. | Grandy, J. Squadron Leader John Grandy took over command of No 249 Hurricane Squadron from the 21st of August 1940. On September 6th 1940 he was wounded after he baled out of his Hurricane I (R4229) following combat over Maidstone. | ||
| Hampshire, C. E. Click the name above to see a profile of Hampshire, C. E. | Hampshire, C. E. | ||
| Johnstone, Sandy Click the name above to see a profile of Johnstone, Sandy
| Johnstone, Sandy Early in 1938, Johnstone was a civilian navigation instructor at Scottish Aviation, moving later to the Civil Air Navigation School at Prestwick. In August 1939 he was called to full-time service with 602 Squadron. After some Spitfire engagements off the Scottish coast, he received command of 602 - he was still only 24 - and led it south to the tiny airfield at West Hampnett, in West Sussex, where it was stationed throughout the Battle of Britain. Sandy was in command of no. 602 squadron during the critical days of the Battle of Britain, flying with the squadron before the war though to 1941, when he was posted to the Middle east, he also served with 229 and 249 squadrons in Malta during the Islands most fateful days of the war. Sandy became a successful author and resided near Ipswich in Suffolk. Sandy Johnstone died 13th December 2000, aged 84. Citation for the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross : Acting Squadron Leader Alexander Vallance Riddell JOHNSTONE (90163), Auxiliary Air Force. This officer has proved himself to be a leader of ability and determination and has been mainly responsible for the high standard of morale in his squadron. He has destroyed four enemy aircraft of which one was shot down at night. | ||
| Kellett, R. G. Click the name above to see a profile of Kellett, R. G. | Kellett, R. G. Squadron Leader Ronald Gustave Kellett of No 303 Polish Squadron was slightly wounded on the 6th of September 1940 when his Hurricane (V7284) came under fire. Kellett landed the Hurricane at Biggin Hill. | ||
| Killingback, F. W. G. Click the name above to see a profile of Killingback, F. W. G. | Killingback, F. W. G. Sergeant F.W.G.Killingback of No 249 Squadron was in his Hurricane I (R4230) when it was shot down near Maidstone, Kent on September 7th 1940. Killingback baled out and was injured. | ||
| King, Eric B. Click the name above to see a profile of King, Eric B.
| King, Eric B. Squadron Leader Eric King flew with No 249 Squadron until the 21st of August 1940 and then transferred to No 151 Squadron. King was killed when he was shot down in his Hurricane I (V7369) near Strood, Kent. | ||
| King, M. A. Click the name above to see a profile of King, M. A.
| King, M. A. Pilot Officer M.A.King of No 249 Squadron baled out of his Hurricane I (V7369) on the 16th of August 1940. He had been shot up by a German fighter over Southampton. His parachute collapsed and he was killed. | ||
| Leggett, P G Click the name above to see a profile of Leggett, P G | Leggett, P G Percival Graham Leggett was born on the 24th of February 1921 and joined the RAFVR In June 1939 as an Airman under training Pilot. He was called up for active duty on 1 September 1939 and he completed his training in September 1940. On the 18 September 1940 Leggett crashed at Oldbury on Severn in Gloucestershire but was unhurt. Leggett was posted to No.615 Squadron at RAF Prestick in Scotland then to 245 Squadron at RAF Aldergrove on 28 September and then to No.46 Squadron at RAF Stapleford on 18 October 1940. He claimed a Fiat BR.20 and probably destroyed and shared in the destruction of another on 11 November 1940. Leggett was then posted to No.145 Squadron in late November 1940 and then to No.96 Squadron on 18 December 1940. Flying his Hurricane off Ark Royal, Leggett joined 249 Squadron in Malta in June 1941 and was in action that same afternoon. In July he increased his Battle of Britain score by shooting down a Macchi C.200 but was shot down in December, bailing out with minor injuries. He was posted to the Desert Air Force just before El Alamein. An RAFVR pilot, Leggett had flown both Hurricanes and Defiants before his posting to Malta. He stayed on in the RAF commanding 73 Squadron on Vampires, retiring in 1958 as a Squadron Leader. | ||
| Lewis, Albert Gerald Click the name above to see a profile of Lewis, Albert Gerald | Lewis, Albert Gerald Pilot Officer Albert Gerald Lewis a South African flew with No 616 Squadron and later moved to No 504 Squadron fighting in France. He then joined No 85 Squadron whilst still in France. He stayed with No 85 Squadron until August when Lewis then joined No 249 Squadron on the 27th of September. Lewis baled out of his Hurricane I (V6617) near Faversham badly burned on September 28th 1940. | ||
| Lofts, K. T. Click the name above to see a profile of Lofts, K. T. | Lofts, K. T. Pilot Officer K.T.Lofts of No 249 Squadron crash landed his Hurricane I (V6566) at West Malling after combat on September 15th 1940. The aircraft was later repaired. Lofts survived when he force landed his Hurricane I (V6878) again, near Tenterdern, Kent after combat with a Bf 109 on the 16th of October 1940. The aircraft was also repaired. | ||
| Loweth, P. A. Click the name above to see a profile of Loweth, P. A. | Loweth, P. A. | ||
| Lucas, Laddie Click the name above to see a profile of Lucas, Laddie
| Lucas, Laddie Laddie Lucas rose in two years from Aircraftman 2nd class to Command no. 249, the top scoring fighter squadron in the Battle of Malta in 1942. He was then 26. Lucas led two Spitfire squadrons and in 1943 a wing on the Western Front. 1944 switching to Mosquitoes of the 2nd tactical air force. After the war he was a conservative MP for ten years. He was also one of Britains best amateur golfers, captaining Cambridge University, England in the Walker Cup, Great Britain and Ireland against the United States, to date he has written eleven books. Sadly Laddie Lucas passed away in 1998. | ||
| Lynch, Joseph Click the name above to see a profile of Lynch, Joseph | Lynch, Joseph | ||
| Maciejowski, M. M. Click the name above to see a profile of Maciejowski, M. M. | Maciejowski, M. M. | ||
| Main, A. D. W. Click the name above to see a profile of Main, A. D. W.
| Main, A. D. W. Killed July 16th 1940 | ||
| McConnell, W. W. Click the name above to see a profile of McConnell, W. W. | McConnell, W. W. Pilot Officer W.W.McConnell an Irishman flew Hurricane's with No 249 Squadron & No 607 Squadron's during the Battle of Britain. | ||
| Mcnair, R. J. Click the name above to see a profile of Mcnair, R. J. | Mcnair, R. J. | ||
| Mcphee, J. Click the name above to see a profile of Mcphee, J. | Mcphee, J. | ||
| Meaker, J. R. B. Click the name above to see a profile of Meaker, J. R. B.
| Meaker, J. R. B. Pilot Officer J.R.B.Meaker of No 249 Squadron was killed on September 27th 1940 after He baled out of his Hurricane I (P3834) following combat over Sussex. He struck the tail-pane of his Hurricane and this resulted in his death. | ||
| Middlemiss, Robert G Click the name above to see a profile of Middlemiss, Robert G | Middlemiss, Robert G Bob was born in Montreal in 1920 and was educated at Commercial High School of Montreal. After graduating from high school Bob Middlemiss accepted a track scholarship from an American College but war broke out and he volunteered to join the RCAF. He was told when an opening was available he would be called. In the interim, his Dad's Regiment, of which he was the RQSM, the 17th Duke of York's Royal Canadian Hussars was mobilized as the 3rd Canadian Motorcycle Regiment. Bob decided to join as a trooper but was called by the Air Force and a few months later joined the RCAF on September 14, 1940. He received his flying training at 13 EFTS, St. Eugene, ON and 9 SFTS, Summerside, PEI where he received his wings. He was posted overseas and trained on Spitfires at 57 OTU, Hawarden, Cheshire. He was posted to 145 Squadron and then later to 41 Squadron. They carried out operations consisting of air defence patrols against high level and low level fighter bomber attacks, convoy patrols in the English Channel, fighter sweeps, bomber escort and low level rhubarbs. In June 1942, he was selected to serve with a team of Spitfire pilots posted to Malta. They were taken to within 700 miles of Malta on the aircraft carrier HMS Eagle and then launched to hopefully make the island. During his tour with 249 Squadron on Malta Bob shot down and destroyed three enemy aircraft and damaged two others before he was shot down and wounded. After recuperating, he served as an Instructor at 52 OTU and then 53 OTU in England. From the OTU he was posted to 403 Squadron, part of the 127 Wing commanded by Johnnie Johnson, the highest scoring ace of WWII. Bob had the honour of flying as his number 2 on a number of sorties. After completing two tours of operations he returned to Canada and instructed on Hurricanes and Mosquitos. Colonel Middlemiss was decorated for his war effort with the Distinguished Flying Cross the citation read as follows: | ||
| Millington, William Henry Click the name above to see a profile of Millington, William Henry
| Millington, William Henry Pilot Officer William H. Millington an Australian flew with No 249 Squadron and No 79 Squadron during the Battle of Britain. Whilst flying with No 79 Squadron he was wounded on August 31st 1940 when he crash landed his Hurricane I (P3050) which was engulfed in flames after combat over Romney. W.H.Millington was later moved to No 249 Squadron and among the combat he Participated in was on the 23rd Sept 1940 in Hurricane V6622 where he was killed on October 30th 1940 when he was shot down in his Hurricane I (V7536) over the Channel. it is thought that Bill succumbed to the enticement as, after ‘finding himself caught up in a series of sporadic actions...over the Channel his Hurricane was last seen chasing a German fighter out to sea; it is believed Bill was the victim of Fw Bielefeldt of 3 Staffel [I/JG51] who claimed a Hurricane at about this time. Tich Palliser recalled it, ‘the whole squadron was sick when Bill was lost; he had been well liked, was a nice lad and had made a great impression on the squadron. He was very much missed.’ | ||
| Mills, J. P. Click the name above to see a profile of Mills, J. P. | Mills, J. P. Sergeant J.P.Mills joined No 43 Squadron in early July 1940. J.P.Mills was awarded the D.F.C. on the 7th of April 1944. | ||
| Moon, Harry Click the name above to see a profile of Moon, Harry | Moon, Harry Flying his Hurricane off the carrier Ark Royal for Malta on June 30th 1941, Harry Moon was fortunate to arrive on the island to join 249 Squadron in a period when the opposition was provided by the Italians. The Hurricane were equal to this task and Moon took part in many combats. However, in December the Lufttwaffe appeared again and losses rose sharply. In February 1942, he was transferred to 126 Squadron when 249 was temporarily disbanded as a result of losses and pending the arrival of Spitfires. In April 1942, he was posted to the Middle East. | ||
| Neil, Tom Click the name above to see a profile of Neil, Tom | Neil, Tom Tom Neil joined 249 Squadron flying Hurricanes just before the start of the Battle of Britain flying from North Weald on 7th September; his first victory was an Me109, followed in quick succession by 10 others and 1 probable. On 7th November he collided in mid-air with Wing Commander Francis Beamish and his aircraft lost its tail. He baled out of his Hurricane unhurt, Beamish force-landing unscathed. Tom was awarded a Bar to his DFC in November Later he served in Malta where he gained another victory, over an Mc200. In September 1942 he was given command of 41 Squadron flying Spitfires before moving to the 9th USAF, 100th Fighter Wing flying P51 Mustangs before and after D-Day. In January 1944 he was posted as Fighter Liason Officer with the US 100th Fighter Wing, and flew with the unit on D-Day. He is believed to be the first English pilot to land on French soil after D-Day. Tom Neil finished the war with 12 and 4-shared victories. | ||
| Nicholson, James . B. E. Click the name above to see a profile of Nicholson, James . B. E.
| Nicholson, James . B. E. Nicolson was 23 years old and a flight lieutenant in No. 249 Squadron, he was awarded the Victoria Cross. On 16 August 1940 near Southampton, Nicolson's Hawker Hurricane was fired on by a Messerschmitt Bf 110, injuring the pilot in one eye and one foot. His engine was also damaged and the petrol tank set alight. As he struggled to leave the blazing machine he saw another Messerschmitt, and managing to get back into the bucket seat, pressed the firing button and continued firing until the enemy plane dived away to destruction. Not until then did he bail out, and he was able to open his parachute in time to land safely in a field. Flight Lieutenant J.B.E.Nicholson was reported as missing on May 2nd of 1945. Fully recovered by September 1941, Nicolson was posted to India in 1942. Between August 1943 and August 1944 he was a Squadron Leader and C.O. of No 27 Squadron, flying Bristol Beaufighters over Burma. During this time he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. As a Wing Commander, he was killed on 2 May 1945 when a RAF B-24 Liberator from No. 355 Squadron, in which he was flying as an observer, caught fire and crashed into the Bay of Bengal. His body was not recovered. | ||
| Palliser, Charles Click the name above to see a profile of Palliser, Charles
| Palliser, Charles Born in West Hartlepool, Charles Palliser was educated at Brougham School and later attended a technical school. Joining the RAFVR at the outbreak of war in 1939, Charles Palliser was posted to No.3 ITW Hasting, moved to No.11 EFTS Perth on 5th December 1939 and in April 1940 went to No.6 FTS at RAF Little Rissington. Palliser converted to Hawker Hurricanes at No.6 OTU at RAF Sutton Bridge in July 1940 and joined No.17 Squadron at RAF Debden on 3rd August 1940 during the Battle of Britain. Palliser moved to RAF Tangmere with No.43 Squadron on 18th August 1940 and then to North Weald with 249 Squadron on 14th September 1940. On the 15th of September he claimed his first aerial victory. In April 1941 Palliser was commissioned and embarked with 249 Sqn on HMS Furious and on 10th May sailed for Gibraltar, and on arrival the squadron transferred to HMS Ark Royal. The squadron flew to Ta' Qali, Malta on 21stMay 1941 to take part in the Battle of Malta. During that battle he claimed a further five victories, and on 27th November Palliser flew Gladiator Faith on a met flight. In January 1942 he was posted to 605 Squadron as flight commander. Palliser was awarded the DFC, which was gazetted on 30th January 1942. He left the island in February 1942 as one of the islands longest serving pilots and joined No.25 Air School at Standerton as flight commander, arriving in South Africa to take up the appointment on the 28th March 1942. Palliser was posted to No.62 CFS, Bloemfontein on 17th July, to 2 EFTS Randfontein on 19th October and then to 4 EFTS Benoni on 2nd September 1943. He returned to the UK and in October 1947 Palliser retired from the RAF, at the rank of Flight Lieutenant. | ||
| Parnall, Denis.C. Click the name above to see a profile of Parnall, Denis.C.
| Parnall, Denis.C. Flight Lieutenant D.C.Parnall of No 249 Squadron was on patrol in his Hurricane I (V6685) when he was shot down and killed over Gravesend on September 18th 1940. | ||
| Parnell, D. G. Click the name above to see a profile of Parnell, D. G.
| Parnell, D. G. Flight Lieutenant D.G.Parnell of No.249 Squadron was killed on September 18th 1940. His Hurricane (V6685) was shot down over Gravesend. He was 25, buried at St Gennys in Cornwall. | ||
| Pattullo, W. B. Click the name above to see a profile of Pattullo, W. B.
| Pattullo, W. B. Died of injuries October 26th 1940 | ||
| Pearce, L. H. B. Click the name above to see a profile of Pearce, L. H. B.
| Pearce, L. H. B. Sergeant L.H.B.Pearce of No.32 Squadron was wounded on August 18th 1940, he baled out of his Hurricane (R4106) after combat near Canterbury. | ||
| Perrin, G. C. Click the name above to see a profile of Perrin, G. C. | Perrin, G. C. | ||
| Plagis, Agorastos Click the name above to see a profile of Plagis, Agorastos
| Plagis, Agorastos John Agorastos Plagis was born in Rhodesia; his parents were both Greek. He joined the RAF in 1941 and in 1942 was part of a 16 Spitfire reinforcements for the beleagured island of Malta, flying off from the carrier Eagle. In the following year while stationed on Malta, John Plagis shot down 9 enemy aircraft, winning the Distinguished Flying Cross while serving with 249 and 185 squadrons. In 1943 he was promoted to Squadron Leader of 126 squadron flying operations over occupied France including on the 24th July 1944 shooting down another Me109. During operation market garden his aircraft was shot down and he was wounded, returning to duty flying the Mustang, with his last mission to escort the Mosquitos whose misison was to destroy the headquarters of Gestapo in Denmark. He remained with the Royal Air Force until 1948, ending his flying carrer flying the Gloster Meteor. His total aerial victories stands at 16 and he was awarded the DFC, DSO and bar. It is believed that he committed suicide several years after the war. Citation for award : London Gazette 1/5/1942 PLAGIS John Agorastos : PO (80227) RAFVR , 249 Sq. Since the beginning of March 1942, this officer has destroyed 4 and probably a further 3 hostile aircraft. With complete indifference to odds against him, he presses home his attacks with skill and courage. In one day alone he destroyed 2 enemy fighters and 1 bomber. He has set an outstanding example. | ||
| Rae, John Click the name above to see a profile of Rae, John | Rae, John New Zealander Jack Rae joined the RNZAF in September 1940, was posted to England and joined 485 Squadron RNZAF. He claimed 2 victories before being posted to 603 Squadron. With this unit he flew his Spitfire off USS Wasp to Malta, on 20th April 1942. After being shot down over the island, he was posted to 249 Squadron. During the following two weeks he saw much action, claiming 4 and one shared by the end of July. Posted back to the UK, he returned to combat flying in May 1943, rejoining 485 Squadron. He rapidly scored further victories, but on 22nd August just after downing an Fw190, his engine failed forcing him to land in France where he was taken POW. His final tally stood at 12 victories and 8 probables. He died on 19th December 2007. | ||
| Robertson, Douglas Click the name above to see a profile of Robertson, Douglas | Robertson, Douglas One of Robertsons strongest memories of Malta was taking Hurricanes on low level, night intruder raids on Sicily as a member of the Malta Night Fighter Unit which he joined from 249 Squadron in July 1941. These nuisance raids were intended to keep the German bombers on the ground. He had come out to Malta in April 1941, flying his Hurricane of the deck of HMS Ark Royal to join 261 Squadron initially at Takali, later transferring to 249 Squadron. In the Spring of 1942 Robertson was posted to the Aircraft Delivery Unit in Cairo. | ||
| Rowell, P. A. Click the name above to see a profile of Rowell, P. A. | Rowell, P. A. | ||
| Rust, C. A. Click the name above to see a profile of Rust, C. A. | Rust, C. A. | ||
| Sharpe, Johnny Click the name above to see a profile of Sharpe, Johnny | Sharpe, Johnny Qualified as a pilot in 1944 and was posted to Italy flying Spitfires and Mustangs for 249 and 213 Squadrons, flying across the Adriatic and taking part in combat over the Balkans. He was nicknamed 8 o'clock because he was never on time for briefings! | ||
| Smithson, R. Click the name above to see a profile of Smithson, R.
| Smithson, R. Killed July 22nd 1941 | ||
| Smyth, R. H. Click the name above to see a profile of Smyth, R. H. | Smyth, R. H. | ||
| Smyth, Ron Click the name above to see a profile of Smyth, Ron | Smyth, Ron Flight Lieutenant Ronald H Smyth joined the RAFVR in May 1939 as an Airman u/t Pilot. Called up at the outbreak of war he was stationed at several different locations. With his course completed, Smyth had several short term postings, where eventually at 5 OTU, Aston Down, he converted to Hurricanes. Flight Lieutenant Smyth continued flying Hurricanes with 111 Squadron, 249 Squadron, and later with 615 Squadron. In May 1941 Smyth attended an instructors course and was commissioned in August. Later he was posted to No.1 Glider Training Squadron, a newly formed Development Unit. He qualified for his 2nd Class Air Navigators Licence while posted at the School of General Reconnaissance. Ronald H Smyth commanded the PRU in Gibraltar where he was awarded the DFC. He also ferried communications between London and Churchill at Biarritz and Atlee in Berlin for the Postdam Conference. Smyth was released from the RAF in January 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant.
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| Solak, J. J. Click the name above to see a profile of Solak, J. J. | Solak, J. J. | ||
| Stroud, G. A. Click the name above to see a profile of Stroud, G. A. | Stroud, G. A. | ||
| Thompson, A R F Click the name above to see a profile of Thompson, A R F
| Thompson, A R F Anthony Robert Fletcher Thompson was born on October 14th 1920. He joined the RAFVR about July 1939 as an airman under training pilot. Called up on September 1st, he completed his training at 15 EFTS and 5 FTS Sealand and arrived at 6 OTU on September 10th 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 85 (F) Squadron at Church Fenton on the 29th and moved to 249 (F) Squadron at North Weald in Essex on October 17th 1940. Thompson shared in the destruction of a Junkers Ju88 on October 28th and destroyed a Bf109 on the 30th. In May 1941 No.249 Squadron went to Malta and flew off of HMS Ark Royal in two groups on the 21st. On August 5th Tommy Thompson joined the Malta Night Fighting Defence Unit then formed at Ta Kali. He damaged an Italian BR20 at night on November 11th. The unit became 1435 (Night Fighter) Flight on December 23rd 1941. Thompson was posted to 71 OTU Gordons Tree, Sudan on March 3rd 1942. He returned to operations on October 1st joining 73 (F) Squadron in the Western Desert. In mid-November he was appointed A Flight Commander. At the end of December Thompson was posted to Cairo and in February he went to 206 Group as a test Pilot. He was awarded the DFC (23.03.43). On March 10th 1944 Thompson was seconded to BOAC and he took his release in Cairo on January 26th 1946 holding the rank of Flight Lieutenant. The following day he signed a contract with BOAC as a Captain. He retired from British Airways on October 14th 1975. Sadly, he died on 9th March 2008. | ||
| Thompson, Tommy Click the name above to see a profile of Thompson, Tommy
| Thompson, Tommy Anthony Robert Fletcher Thompson - Tommy Thompson was born on October 14th 1920. He joined the RAF VF about July 1939 as an airman under training pilot. Called up on September 1st, he completed his training at 15 EFTS and 5 FTS Sealand and arrived at 6 OTU on September 10th 1940. After converting to Hurricanes, he joined 85 (F) Squadron at Church Fenton on the 29th and moved to 249 (F) Squadron at North Weald in Essex on October 17th 1940. Thompson shared in the destruction of a Junkers Ju88 on October 28th and destroyed a Bf109 on the 30th. In May 1941 249 Squadron went to Malta and flew off of HMS Ark Royal in two groups on the 21st. On August 5th Tommy Thompson joined the Malta Night Fighting Defence Unit then formed at Ta Kali. He damaged an Italian Br20 at night on November 11th. The unit became 1435 (Night Fighter) Flight on December 23rd 1941. Thompson was posted to 71 OTU Gordons Tree, Sudan on March 3rd 1942. He returned to operations on October 1st joining 73 (F) Squadron in the Western Desert. In mid-November he was appointed A Flight Commander. At the end of December Thompson was posted to Cairo and in February he went to 206 Group as a test Pilot. He was awarded the DFC (23.03.43). On March 10th 1944 Thompson was seconded to BOAC and he took his release in Cairo on January 26th 1946 holding the rank of Flight Lieutenant. The following day he signed a contract with BOAC as a Captain. He retired from British Airways on October 14th 1975. Tommy Thompson passed away on 9th March 2008. | ||
| Waghorn, P. H. Click the name above to see a profile of Waghorn, P. H.
| Waghorn, P. H. Killed April 11th 1941 | ||
| Wells, P. H. V. Click the name above to see a profile of Wells, P. H. V. | Wells, P. H. V. Flight Officer Pat H.V.Wells of No 249 Squadron baled out wounded on September 7th 1940. His Hurricane I (P3594) GN-O was shot down by return fire whilst attacking some Heinkel He 111's near Faversham. | ||
| Worrall, Pyers A. Click the name above to see a profile of Worrall, Pyers A.
| Worrall, Pyers A. Flight Officer Pyers A.Worrall from No 85 Squadron flying on patrol over Tunbridge on August 31st 1940 in his Hurricane I (V6581). He baled out and was slightly wounded in the leg following combat with a Bf 110. His rudder and elevator controls had been shot away. He was admitted to Croydon Hospital where he recovered. | ||
| Wynn, R. E. N. Click the name above to see a profile of Wynn, R. E. N.
| Wynn, R. E. N. Pilot Officer R.E.N.Wynn of No 249 Squadron was wounded on September 2nd 1940. His Hurricane I (V7352) was damaged in a crash landing after combat over Rochester. R.E.N.Wynn was killed on April 7th 1941, he had been on convoy patrol in his Hurricane (Z2663) and crashed at Ongar, Essex on his return. | ||
| Young, J. R. C. Click the name above to see a profile of Young, J. R. C. | Young, J. R. C. | ||
Known Individual Aircraft of No.249 Sqn RAF : | ||||||||
Type | Serial | Codes | First Flew | Squadron History | Aircrew History | History Notes | Engine | Factory |
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08/01/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | |||||
24/01/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Westland | ||||
27/02/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Chattis Hill | ||||
15/04/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Chattis Hill | ||||
02/03/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | High Post | ||||
21/03/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Eastleigh | ||||
26/03/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Eastleigh | ||||
27/03/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Supermarine (dispersal) | ||||
06/05/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Supermarine (dispersal) | ||||
02/04/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Eastleigh | ||||
UF-S | 24/04/1942 | Merlin 46 | Eastleigh | |||||
03/05/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Eastleigh | ||||
06/05/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Eastleigh | ||||
06/05/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Eastleigh | ||||
06/05/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Chattis Hill | ||||
08/05/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Chattis Hill | ||||
26/04/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | High Post | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Westland | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | Merlin 46 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
GN-L | - | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | |||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 50 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
28/01/1939 | no information | Merlin II | Eastleigh | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 50 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 50 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
24/01/1940 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
08/02/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
12/02/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
13/02/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
27/02/1940 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
28/02/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
16/03/1940 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
19/03/1940 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
12/04/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
13/04/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
15/04/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
15/04/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
20/04/1940 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
20/04/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
21/04/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
23/04/1940 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
23/04/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
23/04/1940 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
RY-X | 23/04/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 66 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
| Aircraft for : No.249 Sqn RAF | ||
| A list of all aircraft associated with No.249 Sqn RAF. A profile page including a list of all art prints for the aircraft is available by clicking the aircraft name. | ||
| Aircraft | Info | |
Baltimore
Manufacturer : Martin Production Began : 1941 Retired : 1949 Number Built : 1575 | Baltimore he first British aircraft were delivered in late 1941 to equip Operational Training Units. The RAF only used the Baltimores operationally in the Mediterranean theater and North Africa. Many users were impressed by the step up that the Baltimore represented The users of the Baltimore, and Martin pilot Benjamin R. Wallace, praised the aircraft for its heavy armament, structural strength, maneuverability, bombing accuracy, and relatively high performance but due to the narrow fuselage it was nearly impossible for crew members to change positions during flight if wounded (the structure of the interior meant that the pilot and observer were separated from the wireless operator and rear gunner). This was common for most light bombers of the era like the Handley Page Hampden, Douglas Boston, and Blenheim. Thrown into action to stop Rommel's advance, the Baltimore suffered massive losses when it was utilized as a low-level attack aircraft, especially in the chaos of the desert war where most missions went unescorted. However, operating at medium altitude with fighter escorts, the Baltimore had a very low loss rate, with the majority of losses coming from operational accidents. Undertaking a variety of missions in the Middle East, Mediterranean and European theaters, the Baltimore's roles included reconnaissance, target-towing, maritime patrol, night intruder and even served as highly uncomfortable fast transports. The Baltimore saw limited Fleet Air Arm service with aircraft transferred from the RAF in the Mediterranean to equip a squadron in 1944. Used in the anti-submarine role during the war, the Baltimore achieved moderate success, sinking up to eight U-boats. The RAF also transferred aircraft to other Allies in the Mediterranean area. After the capitulation of Italy in 1943, the type was used intensively in the Italian campaign to clear the road to Rome for advancing Allied forces.[3] After the armistice, an Italian-manned squadron, the 28th Bomber Wing,[4] was equipped with ex-RAF Baltimores, becoming the co-belligerent Stormo Baltimore. The Italians suffered considerable attrition during their training phase on the Baltimore. The majority of accidents were during takeoffs and landings due to the aircraft's fairly high wing loading, high approach speed and a directional stability problems during takeoffs. The Italians only operated the Baltimore for roughly six months. Many of those operations were in Yugoslavia and Greece, providing air support for partisan forces or dropping supplies. Most Baltimores were scrapped soon after the war, although one RAF squadron continued to use the type in Kenya where the aircraft were used in aerial mapping and locust control until 1948. In post-war service, the Baltimore took part in United States Navy instrument and control surface tests in the effort to break the sound barrier. With its powerful engines and light, yet robust construction, the aircraft was able to be dived at high speed, reaching Mach .74 in tests. All Baltimores were withdrawn from service by the end of 1949, the last one being retired on 23 December 1949. | |
Gladiator 
Manufacturer : Gloster Production Began : 1935 Retired : 1945 Number Built : 746 | Gladiator GLOSTER GLADIATOR: A continuation form the Gloster Gauntlet aircraft the Gloster Gladiator (SS37) becoming designated the F.7/30 was named Gladiator on the 1st July 1935. The first 70 Gladiators had Under wing machine guns (Vickers or Lewis) before the browning became standard The first aircraft arrived at Tangmere airfield on in February 1937 to no. 72 squadron. at the outbreak of world war two a total of 218 Gladiators had been received by the Royal air force with a total of 76 on active service. They served also in the Middle eats and in 1940 when Italy joined the war was nearly the only front line fighter in the middle east. Between 1939 and 1941. the Gloster Gladiator flew in many war zones. flying in France, Greece, Norway, Crete Egypt Malta and Aden. The Aircraft claimed nearly 250 air victories. It stayed in front line duties until 1942, then becoming fighter trainer, and other sundry roles. It continued in these roles until the end of world war two. The Naval equivalent the Sea Gladiator a short service in the Middle east and European waters. A Total of 746 aircraft were built of these 98 were Sea Gladiators.. Performance. speed: 250mph at 17,500 feet, 257 mph at 14,600 Range 430 miles. Armament: Two fixed .3-03 browning machine guns | |
Hurricane 
Manufacturer : Hawker Production Began : 1936 Number Built : 14533 | Hurricane Royal Air Force Fighter, the Hawker Hurricane had a top speed of 320mph, at 18,200 feet and 340mph at 17,500, ceiling of 34,200 and a range of 935 miles. The Hurricane was armed with eight fixed wing mounted .303 browning machine guns in the Mark I and twelve .303 browning's in the MKIIB in the Hurricane MKIIC it had four 20mm cannon. All time classic fighter the Hurricane was designed in 1933-1934, the first prototype flew in June 1936 and a contract for 600 for the Royal Air Force was placed. The first production model flew ion the 12th October 1937 and 111 squadron of the Royal Air Force received the first Hurricanes in January 1938. By the outbreak of World war two the Royal Air Force had 18 operational squadrons of Hurricanes. During the Battle of Britain a total of 1715 Hurricanes took part, (which was more than the rest of the aircraft of the Royal air force put together) and almost 75% of the Victories during the Battle of Britain went to hurricane pilots. The Hawker Hurricane was used in all theatres during World war two, and in many roles. in total 14,533 Hurricanes were built. | |
Mosquito 
Manufacturer : De Havilland Production Began : 1940 Retired : 1955 Number Built : 7781 | Mosquito Used as a night fighter, fighter bomber, bomber and Photo-reconnaissance, with a crew of two, Maximum speed was 425 mph, at 30,300 feet, 380mph at 17,000ft. and a ceiling of 36,000feet, maximum range 3,500 miles. the Mosquito was armed with four 20mm Hospano cannon in belly and four .303 inch browning machine guns in nose. Coastal strike aircraft had eight 3-inch Rockets under the wings, and one 57mm shell gun in belly. The Mossie at it was known made its first flight on 25th November 1940, and the mosquito made its first operational flight for the Royal Air Force as a reconnaissance unit based at Benson. In early 1942, a modified version (mark II) operated as a night fighter with 157 and 23 squadron's. In April 1943 the first De Haviland Mosquito saw service in the Far east and in 1944 The Mosquito was used at Coastal Command in its strike wings. Bomber Commands offensive against Germany saw many Mosquitos, used as photo Reconnaissance aircraft, Fighter Escorts, and Path Finders. The Mosquito stayed in service with the Royal Air Force until 1955. and a total of 7781 mosquito's were built. | |
Mustang 
Manufacturer : North American | Mustang The ubiquitous North American P-51 Mustang, which many consider to be the best all-around fighter of WW II, owes its origins to the British Air Ministry. Following Britains entry into WW II in 1939, the RAF was interested in purchasing additional fighter aircraft from American sources, particularly the Curtiss P-40. Curtiss, which was busy, was unable to guarantee timely delivery so the British approached North American Aviation as a possible second source for the P-40. North American chose to propose its own fighter design which would use the same Allison engine as the P-40. Utilizing new laminar flow wings, the North American fighter was expected to have performance better than the P-40. Developed in record time the new aircraft was designated as a Mustang I by the Brits, whereas the USAAF ordered two for evaluation which were designated XP-51 Apaches. Intrigued with the possibility of using this aircraft also as a dive bomber, North American proposed this to the USAAF which decided to order 500 of the P-51 aircraft to be modified for dive bombing use. Designated as the A-36 Invader, this version of the Mustang utilized dive flaps, and bomb racks under each wing. Some reinforcing of the structural members was also required because of the G-forces to be encountered in dive bombing. A-36s entered combat service with the USAAF prior to any P-51s. In early 1943 the 86th and 27th Fighter Bomber Groups of the 12th Air Force began flying A-36s out of Northern Africa. Despite some early problems with instability caused by the dive flaps, the A-36 was effective in light bombing and strafing roles. It was not, however, capable of dog fighting with German fighters, especially at higher altitudes. Despite these drawbacks one USAAF pilot, Captain Michael T. Russo, who served with the 16th Bomb Squadron of the 27th Fighter Bomber Group, was credited with five confirmed aerial victories in the A-36, thereby becoming the first mustang ace. | |
Spitfire 
Manufacturer : Supermarine Production Began : 1936 Retired : 1948 Number Built : 20351 | Spitfire Royal Air Force fighter aircraft, maximum speed for mark I Supermarine Spitfire, 362mph up to The Seafire 47 with a top speed of 452mph. maximum ceiling for Mk I 34,000feet up to 44,500 for the mark XIV. Maximum range for MK I 575 miles . up to 1475 miles for the Seafire 47. Armament for the various Marks of Spitfire. for MK I, and II . eight fixed .303 browning Machine guns, for MKs V-IX and XVI two 20mm Hispano cannons and four .303 browning machine guns. and on later Marks, six to eight Rockets under the wings or a maximum bomb load of 1,000 lbs. Designed by R J Mitchell, The proto type Spitfire first flew on the 5th March 1936. and entered service with the Royal Air Force in August 1938, with 19 squadron based and RAF Duxford. by the outbreak of World war two, there were twelve squadrons with a total of 187 spitfires, with another 83 in store. Between 1939 and 1945, a large variety of modifications and developments produced a variety of MK,s from I to XVI. The mark II came into service in late 1940, and in March 1941, the Mk,V came into service. To counter the Improvements in fighters of the Luftwaffe especially the FW190, the MK,XII was introduced with its Griffin engine. The Fleet Air Arm used the Mk,I and II and were named Seafires. By the end of production in 1948 a total of 20,351 spitfires had been made and 2408 Seafires. The most produced variant was the Spitfire Mark V, with a total of 6479 spitfires produced. The Royal Air Force kept Spitfires in front line use until April 1954. | |
  Tribute to Fl Off Tom Neil by Ivan Berryman. (PC) |   Hurricane Attack by Robert Taylor. (GS) |   Victory Over Malta by Ivan Berryman. (P) |   George Cross Island Association 60th Anniversary Limited Edition Print by John Young. |
No.249 Sqn RAF Artwork |
Victory Over Malta by Ivan Berryman. |   Tribute to Fl Off Tom Neil by Ivan Berryman. |   Clipped Signature - 'Tommy' Thompson. |
  Clipped Signature - Sandy Johnstone. |   Clipped Signature - 'Laddie' Lucas. |   Clipped Signature - Percival Leggett. |
  Clipped Signature - Harry Moon. |   Clipped Signature - Cyril Hampshire. |   Clipped Signature - Sir John Grandy. |
  Malta Relief by Tim Fisher. |   At the Setting of the Sun by Simon Atack. | Hurricane Attack by Robert Taylor. (GS) |
George Cross Island Association 60th Anniversary Limited Edition Print by John Young. |   Battle of Britain VC by Robert Taylor. |
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Everything we obtain for this site is shown on the site, we do not have any more photos, crew lists or further information on any of the ships. COPYRIGHT NOTICE. ALL IMAGES DISPLAYED ON THIS WEBSITE ARE PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT LAW, AND ARE OWNED BY CRANSTON FINE ARTS OR THEIR RESPECTIVE OWNERS. NO REPRODUCTION OR COPYING ALLOWED ON OTHER WEBSITES, BOOKS OR ARTICLES WITHOUT PRIOR AGREEMENT. |
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This website is owned by Cranston Fine Arts. Torwood House, Torwoodhill Road, Rhu, Helensburgh, Scotland, G848LE Contact: Tel: (+44) (0) 1436 820269. Email: cranstonorders -at- outlook.com |
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Died : 17 / 7 / 1942
