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No.603 Sqn RAF |
Name : No.603 Sqn RAF Founded : 14th October 1925 Disbanded : 10th March 1957 Country : UK Fate : Disbanded 10th March 1957 More Details : City of Edinburgh (Auxiliary) Gin ye daur - If you dare |
No 603 Squadron was formed on 14 October 1925 at Turnhouse as a day bomber unit of the Auxiliary Air Force. Originally equipped with DH9As and using Avro 504Ks for flying training, the squadron re-equipped with Wapitis in March 1930, these being replaced by Harts in February 1934. On 24 October 1938, No 603 was redesignated a fighter unit and flew Hinds until the arrival of Gladiators at the end of March 1939. Within two weeks of the outbreak of war in September 1939, the squadron began to receive Spitfires and passed on its Gladiators to other squadrons during October. It was operational with Spitfires in time to intercept the first German air raid on the British Isles on 16 October, when it destroyed the first enemy aircraft to be shot down over Britain in the Second World War. It remained on defensive duties in Scotland until the end of August 1940, when it moved to southern England for the remaining months of the Battle of Britain, returning to Scotland at the end of December. In May 1941, the squadron moved south again to take part in sweeps over France until the end of the year. After a further spell in Scotland, No.603 left in April 1942 for the Middle East where its ground echelon arrived early in June. The squadron's aircraft were embarked on the US carrier 'Wasp' and flown off to Malta on 20 April to reinforce the fighter defences of the beleaguered island. After nearly four months defending Malta, the remaining pilots and aircraft were absorbed by No.229 Squadron on 3 August 1942. |
Known Service Details : | |||||||
Pilot or Aircrew | Rank | Start of Service | End of Service | Known Dates | Aircraft | Airframes | Notes |
Pilot Officer | unknown | 28th August 1940 | Killed in Action | ||||
Sergeant Pilot | June 1940 | unknown | |||||
unknown | unknown | ||||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | unknown | 06th September 1940 | ||||
Sergeant | unknown | 27th September 1940 | Killed in Action | ||||
Flight Lieutenant | unknown | 28th August 1940 | Killed in Action | ||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | 27th October 1940 | |||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | 14th July 1941 | |||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | unknown | 31st August 1940 | ||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | unknown | |||||
January 1944 | December 1944 | ||||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | 28th August 1940 | Killed in Action | ||||
Flight Lieutenant | unknown | 28th September 1940 | Killed in Action | ||||
Flight Officer | unknown | unknown | 05th October 1940 | ||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | unknown | 25th October 1940 | ||||
Flight Officer | unknown | unknown | 29th August 1940 | ||||
Sergeant | unknown | 21st November 1940 | Killed in Action | ||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | unknown | 05th September 1940 | ||||
Flight Lieutenant | unknown | unknown | 28th August 1940 | ||||
Sergeant | unknown | unknown | 30th August 1940 | ||||
unknown | unknown | ||||||
Pilot Officer | unknown | unknown | 02nd September 1940 | ||||
Pilot Officer | 3rd August 1940 | unknown | |||||
Flight Officer | unknown | unknown | 31st August 1940 | ||||
January 1944 | December 1944 |
Pilots and Aircrew for : No.603 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 | |
Arber, I. K. Click the name above to see a profile of Arber, I. K.
| Arber, I. K. Killed August 2nd 1940 | |
Bailey, G. J. Click the name above to see a profile of Bailey, G. J. | Bailey, G. J. | |
Benson, N. J. V. Click the name above to see a profile of Benson, N. J. V.
| Benson, N. J. V. Pilot Officer N.J.V.Benson of No 603 Squadron killed when he was shot downon the 28th of August 1940. His Spitfire I (N3105) crashed near Tenterden. | |
Berry, Ronald Click the name above to see a profile of Berry, Ronald
| Berry, Ronald Pilot Officer Ronald Berry joined the R.A.F.V.R. in 1937. He joined No 603 Squadron as a Sergeant Pilot and was commissioned in June 1940. He flew spitfires during the Battle of Britain and attained a score of 7 confirmed 4 shared and 6 probables. 6 of the confirmed being Bf 109's. | |
Boulter, J. C. Click the name above to see a profile of Boulter, J. C.
| Boulter, J. C. Killed in accident February 17th 1941 | |
Boulton, J. E. Click the name above to see a profile of Boulton, J. E.
| Boulton, J. E. Pilot Officer J.F.Boulton flew Hurricane's with No 310 Squadron and Spitfire's with No 603 Squadron. On the 9th of September 1940 his Hurricane I (P3888) collided with Hurricane I (R4084) (flown by G.L.Sinclair) and then into a Do 17 over Croydon whilst in combat. He was killed. | |
Burt, A. D. Click the name above to see a profile of Burt, A. D.
| Burt, A. D. Passed away 17th March 1980. | |
Caister, J. R. Click the name above to see a profile of Caister, J. R. | Caister, J. R. Pilot Officer J.R.Caister of No 603 Squadron was taken prisoner on the 6th of September 1940 after he was shot down by fighters from JG 54 near to Calais. Caister force landed his Spitfire I (X4260) in France. | |
Carbury, B. J. G. Click the name above to see a profile of Carbury, B. J. G. | Carbury, B. J. G. | |
Carbury, Brian Click the name above to see a profile of Carbury, Brian
| Carbury, Brian | |
Cunningham, J. L. G Click the name above to see a profile of Cunningham, J. L. G
| Cunningham, J. L. G Flight Lieutenant J.L.G.Cunningham of No 603 Squadron killed on the 28th of August 1940 after his Spitfire I (R6751) was shot down over Dover. | |
Darling, A. S. Click the name above to see a profile of Darling, A. S.
| Darling, A. S. Killed April 26th 1941 | |
Denholm, G. L. Click the name above to see a profile of Denholm, G. L. | Denholm, G. L. | |
Dewey, R. B. Click the name above to see a profile of Dewey, R. B.
| Dewey, R. B. Pilot Officer R.B.Dewey of No 603 Squadron was killed after his Spitfire II (P7365) was shot down near Maidstone, Kent on the 27th of October 1940. | |
Dexter, P. G. Click the name above to see a profile of Dexter, P. G.
| 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. | |
Duncan-Smith, W Click the name above to see a profile of Duncan-Smith, W | Duncan-Smith, W Spent WWII flying Spitfires in the Battle of Britian and over Europe accounting for 19 enemy aircraft destroyed, 7 probables and 15 damaged. Duncan-Smith was born in Madras, India, on 28th May 1914, the son of an officer in the Indian civil service. He was educated in Scotland, where he joined his schools OTC. Returning to India in 1933, he became a coffee and tea planter, but in 1936 returned to the UK to join the RAF. Wartime service - Serving at 7 OTU at the outbreak of war, he was posted to No.611 Squadron RAF later that year. He was awarded a DFC in June 1941, and went to 603 Squadron in August 1941 as a Flight Commander. Taken ill late in the year, he spent some time in hospital, before joining 64 Squadron in March 1942. In August he became Wing Commander- Flying at RAF North Weald after a rest from operations. He was then sent to the Mediterranean as Wing leader, 244 Wing. In September 1943 after engine failure he bailed out into the sea, being rescued after 5 hours adrift. As a Group Captain, he then took charge of 324 Wing , finally leaving in March 1945. Duncan Smith or Smithy,/i> was credited with 17 confirmed kills, two shared kills, six probables, two shared probables and eight damaged in aerial combat. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Order and Bar and the Distinguished Flying Cross and two Bars in recognition of his bravery. He also was a notable recipient of the 5 Years Safe Driving Award. He was the author of Spitfire into Battle, published in 1981, a highly entertaining account of aerial combat in the Spitfire aircraft. Group Captain Duncan Smith flew and fought in front-line operations continuously from the Battle of Britain through the struggle for Malta, the invasion of Italy and the liberation of France. | |
Gilroy, G K Click the name above to see a profile of Gilroy, G K | Gilroy, G K Pilot Officer G.K.Gilroy of No 603 Squadron was wounded on August 31st 1940 after he baled out of his Spitfire I (X4271) near Wanstead and was injured by civilians who attacked him. | |
Goldsmith, C. W. Click the name above to see a profile of Goldsmith, C. W.
| 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. | |
Haig, John Galloway Edward Click the name above to see a profile of Haig, John Galloway Edward
| Haig, John Galloway Edward Haig had joined 603 Squadron, AuxAF, in 1932 and went on to the Reserve of Officers in June 1938. He was recalled for full-time service in August 1939. On 10th January 1940 Haig and three other 603 pilots were attached to RAF Montrose for convoy protection duties. Haig shared in the destruction of a He111 east of Aberdeen on 16th January. In the early hours of 26th June 1940 Turnhouse was bombed by German intruder aircraft. Haig was airborne at this time and may have shared in the destruction of a He111 ten miles south of Dunbar, the Heinkel was also attacked by F/Lt. AVR Johnstone of 602 Squadron. With his fuel running low, Haig requested permission to land at Turnhouse, 603's base. This was refused because of the possibility of German intruders still being in the area and preventing the switching-on of the flare path. Haig turned away to open country, shortly afterwards his engine failed and as it was too dark to attempt a forced landing he baled out, spraining an ankle on landing. His Spitfire crashed at Harperrigg Reservoir. Having convinced a local farmer that he was not German, Haig was taken back to Turnhouse by the farmer in his lorry, it ran into a bomb crater when near the aerodrome. On 17th July 1940 Haig joined the 'A' Flight detachment at Dyce. On the 24th he damaged a He111 east of Peterhead. In late August 603 went south to Hornchurch and on 2nd September Haig claimed a Me109 destroyed but made a wheels-up landing back at base in his damaged Spitfire, R6752, unhurt. On 2 September 1940 the squadron was scrambled to protect Hornchurch, but then were ordered forward when it was realised that the airfield was not under immediate threat of attack. He claimed a Bf109E destroyed in conjunction with PO Berry at 07:50hrs. The Bf109E (4807) was attributed to that of Leutnant Gunther Ruttkowski of I/JG51 who was killed when he crashed at Nethersole Park, Womenswold, east of Barham. This was also claimed by PO Gribble of 54 Sqn at 08:00hrs. Later the same day Haig was part of a nine aircraft patrol to Chatham at 22,000ft and spotted a large formation of Do17’s and Bf109’s five miles east of Sheppey. As a result of the combat mission he had to perform a wheels-up landing at Hornchurch due to his Spitfire (R6752) being damaged in combat over the Thames Estuary at 13:35hrs. He was unhurt and his aircraft (XT-E) was damaged but repairable. Haig probably destroyed a Me109 on 30th September and damaged others on 2nd and 28th October. He was posted away to 58 OTU Grangemouth on 30th December 1940 as an instructor. | |
Harington, Ray Click the name above to see a profile of Harington, Ray | Harington, Ray Ray joined the RAF in 1941, completing his training in South Africa. In January 1944 he was posted to 603 Squadron flying Beaufighters in North Africa. Here he teamed up with navigator, Warrant Officer A.E. ‘Bert’ Winwood, and from where they launched attacks across the Mediterranean into Crete, Greece and the Aegean Islands against shipping, harbour installations and enemy aircraft with much success. In December 1944 they were posted to 235 Squadron Coastal Command, part of the Banff Strike Wing, converting to Mosquitos. In April 1945 they were shot down following a strike in the Kattegat, but avoided capture and with the help of the Danish resistance made it home, where they continued to fly again from Banff.
Ray Harrington during a signing session in March 2010. Report from the Squadron Operational Record Book from the day his Mosquito was forced to belly-land in Denmark : 5th April 1945 : The Banff Strike Wing led by W/Cdr A H Simmonds DFC was airborne between 1410-1421 hrs. It comprised 13 RP aircraft of 235 Sqdn, 11 RP of 143 Sqdn, 10 RP of 248 Sqdn also 2 fighter aircraft of 333 (Capr Wenger leading) 2 of 143 Sqdn and 1 of 235 Sqdn. The Wing made R/V over Peterhead with 12 Mustangs and S/C on a Rover patrol into the KATTEGAT. T/235 returned early with failure engineer and V/235 also returned early escorting a Mustang in distress. The Danish coast was crossed in good weather 6/10 cloud at 2,500ft with vis. 15-20mls. Near ANHOLT 3 convoys were sighted. The first consisted of 1 E/V plus 5 small M/Vs on a southerly course. The second convoy of 1 M/V of approx. 1500 tons and 2 E/Vs was on a northerly course and the third of 4 small coasters in line astern was on an easterly course. An attack was made on the first of these convoys. This comprised : (A) 1 M/V of 1200-1500 tons 3 island type. (B) 1 Small escort vessel. (C) 1 Coaster of 1000 tons. (D) 1 M/V of 1500-2000 tons, 3 island type. (E) 1 M/V of 800-1000 tons. (F) 1 M/V of 1000-1500 tons. M/V (A) was seen to be attacked by U/235. M/V (B) was attacked by 6 aircraft with RP and cannon, (C) was attacked by 4 aircraft with RP and cannon, (D) was attacked by 6 aircraft with RP and cannon, (E) was attacked by 3 aircraft with RP and cannon, and (F) by 7 aircraft with RP and cannon and wet and dry hits were observed on all ships. M/V (E) was seen to blow up and M/V (D) was burning furiously and seemed to be listing. (C) and (F) were both smoking heavily and down by the stern. (A) and (B) were both left smoking. 2 aircraft of 235 Sqn attacked the third vessel in line of the third convoy with RP and cannon. A large explosion was seen followed by flares and a column of smoke. U/235 (P/O Arthars and F/S Richardson) was seen to collide with the mast of a ship during the attack and broke up and dived into the sea. E/333 (Capt Wenger and Sgt Hansen) failed to return but the crew have since repatriated from Sweden. 1 aircraft believed F/235 (Harrington and Winwood) with a glycol leak was seen to make a belly landing in a field position 56 48N 08 21E. The last aircraft mentioned in the report is that of Bert Winwood and Ray Harrington. During signatures sessions, Bert Winwood also provided us with the photgraphs of the two men lost when their aircraft collided with the mast of a ship during the raid. Below are the photos of P/O Laurie Arthars and F/S Geg Richardson. P/O Laurie Arthars F/S Geg Richardson | |
Hartas, P. McD. Click the name above to see a profile of Hartas, P. McD.
| Hartas, P. McD. Killed February 10th 1941 | |
Hillary, R. H. Click the name above to see a profile of Hillary, R. H.
| Hillary, R. H. Killed in night training flight January 18th 1943 | |
Holland, Tony Click the name above to see a profile of Holland, Tony | Holland, Tony Tony Holland flew the first spitfire to Malta from USS Wasp with 603 Squadron in April 1942. He shared in the destruction of 6 enemy aircraft. | |
Howes, P. Click the name above to see a profile of Howes, P.
| Howes, P. Killed September 18th 1940 | |
Lawrence, K. A. Click the name above to see a profile of Lawrence, K. A. | Lawrence, K. A. | |
Macdonald, D. K. Click the name above to see a profile of Macdonald, D. K.
| Macdonald, D. K. Pilot Officer D.K.MacDonald of No 603 Squadron was shot down in his Spitfire I (L1046) near Dover and killed on August 28th 1940. | |
Macdonald, H. K. Click the name above to see a profile of Macdonald, H. K.
| Macdonald, H. K. Flight Lieutenant H.K.MacDonald of No 603 Squadron was shot down on September 28th 1940 in his Spitfire I (L1076) near Gillingham, Kent. He was killed. | |
Macnamara, B. R. Click the name above to see a profile of Macnamara, B. R. | Macnamara, B. R. | |
Macphail, F. J. Click the name above to see a profile of Macphail, F. J.
| Macphail, F. J. Passed away 1993. | |
Martel, Ludvik Click the name above to see a profile of Martel, Ludvik
| 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.
| Matthews, H. K. F. Killed October 7th 1940 | |
Maxwell, D. A. Click the name above to see a profile of Maxwell, D. A.
| Maxwell, D. A. Killed February 14th 1941** | |
Morton, J. S. Click the name above to see a profile of Morton, J. S.
| Morton, J. S. Pilot Officer J.S.Morton of No 603 Squadron was on patrol on October 5th 1940 when his Spitfire I (K9807) was shot down over Dover. He baled out but suffered burns. | |
Olver, Peter Click the name above to see a profile of Olver, Peter | Olver, Peter Battle of Britain pilot, 611 and 603 squadrons. Wing Commander Peter Olver served with 603 Squadron on the 24th of October and on the following day his Spitfire was shot down but he baled out with only light injuries. When returning to duty he was transferred to 66 Squadron based at Biggin Hill and promoted to Flight Commander. | |
Pease, A. P. Click the name above to see a profile of Pease, A. P.
| Pease, A. P. Killed September 15th 1940 | |
Peel, C. D. Click the name above to see a profile of Peel, C. D.
| Peel, C. D. Missing July 17th 1940** | |
Pinckney, D. J. C. Click the name above to see a profile of Pinckney, D. J. C.
| Pinckney, D. J. C. Pilot Officer D.J.C.Pinckney of No 603 Squadron was wounded on August 29th 1940. His Spitfire I (R6753) had been in combat over Dymchurch. He suffered slight burns. | |
Pinfold, Herbert M Click the name above to see a profile of Pinfold, Herbert M
| Pinfold, Herbert M Group Captain Herbert Moreton Pinfold, Battle of Britian pilot with 56 Squadron flying Hurricanes, he also flew with 6, 64, 502 and 603 Squadrons. Sadly, Herbert Pinfold passed away on 19th October 2009. Group Captain Herbert Moreton Pinfold was born 5th February 1913 and joined the Royal Air Force in August 1934 at the age of 21. In September Herbert Pinfold was posted to 5 FTS, Sealand and with training completed, on the 5th of September he was sent to join 6 Squadron at Ismailia, Egypt. He returned to the UK on 19th March 1936 and joined the newly formed 64 Squadron. The squadron were flying Hawker Demons, and were moved to the Western Desert to combat the Italian Air Force threat. The squadron returned to the UK in September. After a short spell as personal assistant and pilot to AOC 11 Group, Herbert Pinfold was sent on a Flying Instructors Course at RAF Upavon. After completing the instructors course he was posted to 502 Squadron, AuxAF as Flying Instructor and Adjutant at RAF Aldergrove, Northern Ireland on 16th July 1938. In January 1939, Herbert Pinfold went to RAF Turnhouse, Edinburgh and joined 603 Squadron where the squadron were flying Gladiators and then Spitfires. He went to 3 FTS, South Cerney on 2nd July 1940, as an instructor. On the 11th of August Penfold went to Aston Down and converted to Hurricanes. Herbert Pinfold took command of 56 Squadron at North Weald on the 25th, remaining with it until 29th January 1941, after this he was posted to 10 FTS at Tern Hill when he returned to flying instruction with a posting to 10 FTS, Tern Hill. Herbert Pinfold completed the RAF Staff College course and went on a number fo staff positions in the UK and also overseas including Ceylon and Singapore. Coming back to the UK Herbert Pinfold took command of Duxford, at that time flying Meteors, after which was posted to the Air Ministry. In 1953 Herbert was appointed Air Attache in Rome, before returning to the UK in 1956 for a second spell as Station Commander of Duxford. On the 1st of October 1958 Herbet Pinfold retired at the rank of Group Captain. Sadly, Herbert Pinfold passed away on 19th October 2009. | |
Plant, R. E. Click the name above to see a profile of Plant, R. E.
| Plant, R. E. Sergeant R.E.Plant from No 603 Squadron was killed on November 21st 1940 near Faversham, Kent. His Spitfire II (P7387) was in a collision. | |
Prowse, H. A. R. Click the name above to see a profile of Prowse, H. A. R. | Prowse, H. A. R. | |
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. | |
Rafter, W. P. H. Click the name above to see a profile of Rafter, W. P. H.
| Rafter, W. P. H. Pilot Officer W.P.H.Rafter of No 603 Squadron was wounded on the 5th of September 1940. His Spitfire I (X4264) was shot down in combat over Biggin Hill. | |
Read, W. A. A. Click the name above to see a profile of Read, W. A. A. | Read, W. A. A. | |
Ritchie, I. S. Click the name above to see a profile of Ritchie, I. S. | Ritchie, I. S. Pilot Officer I.S.Ritchie of No 603 Squadron was wounded on August 28th 1940. His Spitfire I (R6989) was damaged in combat off Dover. | |
Rushmer, F. W. Click the name above to see a profile of Rushmer, F. W.
| Rushmer, F. W. Killed September 5th 1940 | |
Sarre, A. R. Click the name above to see a profile of Sarre, A. R.
| Sarre, A. R. Sergeant A.R.Sarre of No 603 Squadron baled safely out of his Spitfire I (R7021) on August 30th 1940 after combat over West Malling. He was wounded on September 7th 1940 when he baled out of his Spitfire I (P9467) over the Thames Estuary. | |
Scott, Allan Click the name above to see a profile of Scott, Allan | Scott, Allan Allan Scott joined the RAF in March 1941, joining 124 Squadron in October, where he made his first claims. Ordered to Malta, he flew his Spitfire off HMS Eagle to the island on 21st July. Initially posted to 603 Squadron, he went to 1435 Squadron, seeing much action - including a victory during Operation Pedestal on 13th August. He remained with this unit until December 1942. Whilst on Malta he was credited with at least 5 destroyed and a further 2 probables, and received the DFM. Returnong to the UK he was commissioned in January 1943. In September he was posted to join 122 Squadron. His final tally was 6 victories. | |
Scott-Malden, David Click the name above to see a profile of Scott-Malden, David
| Scott-Malden, David Born 26th December 1919, at Portslade, Sussex , David Scott-Malden became a Pilot Officer in October 1939. After training in the Cambridge University Air Squadron, Scott-Malden was selected for an Army Co-Operation course as a pilot officer. He was thrilled when in late May 1940 the chief instructor announced that he had "a severe disappointment" to communicate: "Gentlemen," he said, "you are to be transferred immediately to fighters". Scott-Malden joined No 603 (City of Edinburgh) Squadron at Hornchurch, Essex in early October 1940 as a replacement Spitfire pilot during the early stage of the Battle of Britain over the South-East. The squadron had been much depleted by losses that summer as was only too apparent in an action over Kent on October 12th. "Eight aircraft were directed into a large gaggle of Me109 fighters, we split up individually and passed head-on through the enemy formation. There was a sense of shock as a distant series of silhouettes suddenly became rough metal with grey-green paint and yellow noses, passing head-on on either side. At the far end I had a few minutes dog fight with the last 109, scoring hits leaving a trail of black smoke. Then we were alone at 20,000 feet, the German gliding down with an engine which coughed and barely turned over, I with very little ammunition and very little petrol. He glided towards the Channel. I looked for an airfield before my petrol ran out. Strangely, I felt inclined to wave to him as I left. But then I was only 20". It was Scott-Malden who would go onto many other victories with five confirmed and as many as seven probables. In June 1940 he was posted to fly Spitfires with No 611 (West Lancashire) Squadron at Digby, Lincolnshire before being transferred to No 603 (City of Edinburgh) Squadron at Hornchurch in early October. In the New Year of 1941 Scott-Malden flew offensive sweeps with 603 over northern France. He was promoted to flight commander and in September received command of No 54 Squadron. Bearing the initials "S-M" below the cockpit and the legend "Bahrain", Scott-Maldens Spitfire W3632 - built at the Supermarine factory at Woolston, Hampshire - was a gift from the people of Bahrain, who had raised £15,000 to purchase the Spitfire. Moving in November to headquarters No 14 Group in Scotland, Scott-Malden had the task of helping to bring to operational readiness the first Free Norwegian fighter squadrons, with pilots who had escaped from Norway. When they were ready Scott-Malden was appointed, in March 1942, to command the Norwegian Fighter Wing of three squadrons at North Weald in Essex. In the summer, the wing built a magnificent reputation and covered itself in glory during the disastrous Dieppe raid of August 20. Operating from the Kent coastal airfield at Manston, Scott-Malden led Nos 242, 331 and 332 squadrons in three separate sorties on the day, seeking, against great odds, to protect the mostly Canadian troops as they attempted to land and then to withdraw. Scott-Malden was awarded a DSO in 1942 and was also decorated by King Haakon of Norway with the Norwegian War Cross, lunching with the King afterwards at Claridges. In New Year 1944, in preparation During the run for the Normandy invasion, in 1944 Scott Malden joined a mobile group control unit on Goodwood racecourse. After D-Day June 6, the unit moved to Normandy with the roll to control fighter support. During the summer of 1944 Scott-Malden was promoted acting group captain and given command of No 125, a Spitfire wing covering the Allied forces as they advanced through North-West Europe from nine different points. Scott-Malden took a permanent commission witht he RAF and took a number staff and command appointments, one of which was to assist with plans for the Suez campaign of 1956. Scott-Malden final tally of victories stood at 3 confirmed destroyed with two shared, five probables and 12 damaged with another one sharedbecame an Air Vice marshal in 1965. and left the RAF in 1966 taking a administrator position with the Ministry of Transport and in 1978 retiring to Norfolk . Sadly, he died on 1st March 2000. Citation for the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. Citation for the award of the Bar to the Distinguished Flying Cross. Citation for the award of the Distinguished Service Order. | |
Soden, J. F. Click the name above to see a profile of Soden, J. F.
| Soden, J. F. Killed September 12th 1942** | |
Squier, John Click the name above to see a profile of Squier, John
| Squier, John John Squier was called up from the RAFVR at the outbreak of war, joining 64 Squadron at Kenley in June 1940 flying Spitfires. In August he crash landed following an attack by Hannes Trautloft of III/JG51, suffering severe injuries. Rejoining 64 Squadron in November, he was posted to 72 Squadron, then 603 Squadron, and finally 141 Squadron. He was commissioned in 1942. After the war he became a test pilot and was the first pilot to eject at supersonic speed. He died 30th January 2006. | |
Stapleton, Basil Click the name above to see a profile of Stapleton, Basil
| Stapleton, Basil Born in South Africa, Basil Stapleton joined the RAF in Jan 1939, being posted to 603 Sqn flying Spitfires. He first saw action off Scotland, sharing in the destruction of two bombers, before the Squadron was posted south to Hornchurch during the height of the Battle of Britain. By Nov 1940 his tally had risen to 6 and 2 shared victories and 8 probables. In March 1942 he was posted to 257 Sqn as flight commander. In August 1944 he commanded 247 Sqn flying Typhoons, taking part in the Arnhem operations. In December 1944, whilst attacking a train, debris hit his aircraft forcing him to land behind enemy lines where he was taken prisoner of war. Stapme Stapleton had scored 6 victories, plus 2 shared, 5 probable and 2 damaged. Sadly, we have learned that Basil Stapleton passed away on 13th April 2010. | |
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. | |
Swanwick, George W Click the name above to see a profile of Swanwick, George W
| 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. | |
Terry, P. H. R. R. Click the name above to see a profile of Terry, P. H. R. R. | Terry, P. H. R. R. | |
Waterston, R. McG. Click the name above to see a profile of Waterston, R. McG.
| Waterston, R. McG. Flight Officer R.McG Waterson was on patrol with No 603 Squadron on August 31st 1940 in his Spitfire I (X4273) and was shot down by a Bf 109 from JG 3 over London. | |
Winskill, Archie Click the name above to see a profile of Winskill, Archie
| Winskill, Archie An RAFVR pilot, Winskill flew with both 72 Squadron and 603 Squadrons during the Battle of Britain. Commissioned in August 1940 he was posted in February 1941 to 41 Squadron where he soon became a Flight Commander. Baders determination to engage the enemy at every possible opportunity is what he remembers most clearly of the period, On August 14th he was shot down over France, just five days after Bader. He managed to evade capture and, with the help of the French Resistance, made his way to Spain and then Gibraltar. He was the first pilot to use this route home. After another operational posting to North Africa, after which he was awarded a Bar to his DFC, he finished the war with four confirmed victories. Post war he stayed on in the RAF and was Captain of the Queens Flight for 14 years. He died 9th August 2005. | |
Winwood, Bert Click the name above to see a profile of Winwood, Bert
| Winwood, Bert WO A.E. 'Bert' Winwood was a Navigator on Mosquitoes and Beaufighters, flew only with pilot Ray Harrington attached to 603 sqn in the Greek Campaign. Bert did his Navigator training in Canada and in January 1944 was posted to 603 Squadron on Beaufighters, based at Gambut, near Tobruk. From here they launched attacks right across the Mediterranean into Crete, Greece and the Aegean Islands against shipping, harbour installations and enemy aircraft with much success. In December 1944 he was posted to 235 Squadron at RAF Banff flying as navigator on Mosquito's flying in the Banff Strike Wing. In April 1945 he was shot down when returning from a strike in the Kattegat, he and his pilot Ray Harrington avoided capture, and with the help of the Danish resistance made it home to England. After a short rest he continued to fly again from RAF Banff, he left the RAF in 1946.
Bert Winwood during a signing session in March 2010. Report from the Squadron Operational Record Book from the day his Mosquito was forced to belly-land in Denmark : 5th April 1945 : The Banff Strike Wing led by W/Cdr A H Simmonds DFC was airborne between 1410-1421 hrs. It comprised 13 RP aircraft of 235 Sqdn, 11 RP of 143 Sqdn, 10 RP of 248 Sqdn also 2 fighter aircraft of 333 (Capr Wenger leading) 2 of 143 Sqdn and 1 of 235 Sqdn. The Wing made R/V over Peterhead with 12 Mustangs and S/C on a Rover patrol into the KATTEGAT. T/235 returned early with failure engineer and V/235 also returned early escorting a Mustang in distress. The Danish coast was crossed in good weather 6/10 cloud at 2,500ft with vis. 15-20mls. Near ANHOLT 3 convoys were sighted. The first consisted of 1 E/V plus 5 small M/Vs on a southerly course. The second convoy of 1 M/V of approx. 1500 tons and 2 E/Vs was on a northerly course and the third of 4 small coasters in line astern was on an easterly course. An attack was made on the first of these convoys. This comprised : (A) 1 M/V of 1200-1500 tons 3 island type. (B) 1 Small escort vessel. (C) 1 Coaster of 1000 tons. (D) 1 M/V of 1500-2000 tons, 3 island type. (E) 1 M/V of 800-1000 tons. (F) 1 M/V of 1000-1500 tons. M/V (A) was seen to be attacked by U/235. M/V (B) was attacked by 6 aircraft with RP and cannon, (C) was attacked by 4 aircraft with RP and cannon, (D) was attacked by 6 aircraft with RP and cannon, (E) was attacked by 3 aircraft with RP and cannon, and (F) by 7 aircraft with RP and cannon and wet and dry hits were observed on all ships. M/V (E) was seen to blow up and M/V (D) was burning furiously and seemed to be listing. (C) and (F) were both smoking heavily and down by the stern. (A) and (B) were both left smoking. 2 aircraft of 235 Sqn attacked the third vessel in line of the third convoy with RP and cannon. A large explosion was seen followed by flares and a column of smoke. U/235 (P/O Arthars and F/S Richardson) was seen to collide with the mast of a ship during the attack and broke up and dived into the sea. E/333 (Capt Wenger and Sgt Hansen) failed to return but the crew have since repatriated from Sweden. 1 aircraft believed F/235 (Harrington and Winwood) with a glycol leak was seen to make a belly landing in a field position 56 48N 08 21E. The last aircraft mentioned in the report is that of Bert Winwood and Ray Harrington. During signatures sessions, Bert Winwood also provided us with the photgraphs of the two men lost when their aircraft collided with the mast of a ship during the raid. Below are the photos of P/O Laurie Arthars and F/S Geg Richardson. P/O Laurie Arthars F/S Geg Richardson |
Known Individual Aircraft of No.603 Sqn RAF : | ||||||||
Type | Serial | Codes | First Flew | Squadron History | Aircrew History | History Notes | Engine | Factory |
27/04/1937 | no information | |||||||
29/10/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45M | High Post | ||||
19/11/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | High Post | ||||
28/11/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45M | Eastleigh | ||||
05/12/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | High Post | ||||
- | 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 45 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | 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 45 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | 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 45 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | 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 45 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | 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 45 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
23/03/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Chattis Hill | ||||
07/03/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | High Post | ||||
25/03/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | High Post | ||||
07/03/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Eastleigh | ||||
14/05/1942 | no information | no information | Merlin 46 | Eastleigh | ||||
WZ-B | - | no information | no information | Merlin II | Eastleigh | |||
- | Merlin II | Eastleigh | ||||||
10/10/1938 | Merlin II | Eastleigh | ||||||
29/12/1938 | no information | no information | Merlin II | Eastleigh | ||||
28/01/1939 | no information | Merlin II | Eastleigh | |||||
28/03/1939 | no information | no information | Merlin II | Eastleigh | ||||
B | 06/04/1939 | no information | no information | Merlin II | Eastleigh | |||
01/05/1939 | no information | no information | Merlin II | Eastleigh | ||||
04/05/1939 | no information | Merlin II | Eastleigh | |||||
26/05/1939 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
31/05/1939 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
01/06/1939 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
QJ-K | 01/06/1939 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
XT-K | 15/06/1939 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||
15/06/1939 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
XT-L | 16/06/1939 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
16/06/1939 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
19/06/1939 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
17/06/1939 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
19/06/1939 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
20/06/1939 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
20/06/1939 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
XT-K | 05/07/1939 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
05/07/1939 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
07/07/1939 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
06/07/1939 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
07/07/1939 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
13/07/1939 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
14/07/1939 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
14/07/1939 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
15/07/1939 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
17/07/1939 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
20/07/1939 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
XT-A | 24/07/1939 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
DW-N | 10/08/1939 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||
11/08/1939 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
FN-L | - | no information | no information | Merlin 63 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | |||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 66 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
RF-A | 09/09/1939 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
XT-B | 02/10/1939 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
17/10/1939 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
18/10/1939 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
20/10/1939 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
23/10/1939 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
27/11/1939 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
07/12/1939 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
14/12/1939 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
16/12/1939 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
XT-S | 29/12/1939 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
29/12/1939 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
XT-H | 13/01/1940 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Morris Motors | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Morris Motors | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Morris Motors | ||||
GW-K | - | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Morris Motors | |||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
MN-A | - | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | |||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
SK-Y | - | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | |||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | |||||
- | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | |||||
- | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
RF-T | - | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | |||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin XII | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | 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 45 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
G3L | - | 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 45 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
07/03/1940 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
30/03/1940 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
XT-N | 09/04/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
12/04/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
17/04/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
29/05/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
- | no information | no information | Griffon 61 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Griffon 61 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Griffon 61 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Griffon 61 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Griffon 61 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Griffon 61 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Griffon 61 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Griffon 61 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Griffon 61 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Griffon 61 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Griffon 61 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Griffon 61 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Griffon 61 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Griffon 61 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Griffon 61 | |||||
21/05/1940 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
XT-V | 23/05/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||
11/06/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
12/06/1940 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
XT-U | 13/06/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
13/06/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
XT-G | 13/06/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
XT-F | 14/06/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||
14/06/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
24/06/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
XT-W | 28/06/1940 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
XT-X | 20/07/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
24/07/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
19/03/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
EB-F | 19/03/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | |||
UZ-E | 20/03/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | |||
21/03/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
21/03/1941 | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | |||||
SK-J | 25/03/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | |||
02/04/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
02/04/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
09/04/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
11/04/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Chattis Hill | ||||
24/04/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Chattis Hill | ||||
11/04/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
AH-J | 11/04/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | |||
12/04/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
16/04/1941 | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | |||||
17/04/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
21/04/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
RAJ-H | - | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | |||
8W-E | - | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | |||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
RAJ-M | - | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | |||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | Cosford | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
XT-H | - | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
PR-F | - | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
RAJ-C | - | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | ||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 266 | |||||
XT-G | 08/05/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Chattis Hill | |||
08/05/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Chattis Hill | ||||
SK-X | 26/04/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Chattis Hill | |||
13/05/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Chattis Hill | ||||
17/05/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Chattis Hill | ||||
23/04/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
24/04/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
25/04/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
29/04/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
30/04/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
29/05/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Chattis Hill | ||||
14/05/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
24/05/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | High Post | ||||
31/05/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
19/05/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Chattis Hill | ||||
29/05/1941 | no information | Merlin 45 | Chattis Hill | |||||
13/06/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45M | Chattis Hill | ||||
21/06/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45M | Eastleigh | ||||
17/06/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
GW-H | - | no information | no information | Merlin 45M | High Post | |||
- | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
14/07/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
15/07/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
15/07/1941 | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | |||||
01/08/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | |||||
16/08/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Chattis Hill | ||||
02/09/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
26/07/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
SK-S | 26/07/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
08/08/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
XT-Z | 13/08/1940 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
XT-X | 20/08/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
22/08/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
XT-D | 22/08/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
22/08/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
23/08/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
23/08/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
23/08/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
XT-N | 25/08/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
XT-K | 26/08/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
XT-F | 26/08/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||
XT-M | 27/08/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
29/08/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
30/08/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
30/08/1940 | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||||
04/09/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
05/09/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
05/09/1940 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
06/09/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
08/09/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
11/09/1940 | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | |||||
20/09/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
20/09/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
01/10/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
01/10/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
15/10/1940 | no information | no information | Merlin III | Eastleigh | ||||
03/05/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
06/05/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh | ||||
09/05/1941 | no information | no information | Merlin 45 | Eastleigh |
Aircraft for : No.603 Sqn RAF | ||
A list of all aircraft associated with No.603 Sqn RAF. A profile page including a list of all art prints for the aircraft is available by clicking the aircraft name. | ||
Aircraft | Info | |
Avro 504N
Manufacturer : Avro Production Began : 1913 Retired : 1933 Number Built : 8970 | Avro 504N Small numbers of early aircraft were purchased both by the Royal Flying Corps (RFC) and the Royal Naval Air Service (RNAS) prior to the start of World War I, and were taken to France when the war started. One of the RFC aircraft was the first British aircraft to be shot down by the Germans, on 22 August 1914. The pilot was 2nd Lt. Vincent Waterfall and his navigator Lt Charles George Gordon Bayly (both of 5 Sqn RFC) The RNAS used four 504s to form a special flight in order to bomb the Zeppelin works at Friedrichshafen on the shores of Lake Constance. Three set out from Belfort in north-eastern France on 21 November 1914, carrying four 20 lb (9 kg) bombs each. While one aircraft was shot down, the raid was successful, with several direct hits on the airship sheds and the destruction of the hydrogen generating plant. n the winter of 1917–18 it was decided to use converted 504Js and 504Ks to equip Home Defence squadrons of the RFC, replacing ageing B.E.2cs, which had poor altitude performance. These aircraft were modified as single-seaters, armed with a Lewis gun above the wing on a Foster mounting, and powered by 100 hp (75 kW) Gnome or 110 hp (80 kW) Le Rhône engines. 274 converted Avro 504Js and Ks were issued to eight home defence squadrons in 1918, with 226 still being used as fighters at the end of World War I. Following the end of the war, while the type continued in service as the standard trainer of the RAF, large numbers of surplus aircraft were available for sale, both for civil and military use. More than 300 504Ks were placed on the civil register in Britain. Used for training, pleasure flying, banner towing and even barnstorming exhibitions (as was ongoing in North America following World War I with the similar-role, surplus Curtiss JN-4s and Standard J-1s); civil 504s continued flying in large numbers until well into the 1930s. Soon obsolete as a frontline aircraft, it came into its own as a trainer, with thousands being built during the war, with the major production types being the 504J and the mass production 504K, designed with modified engine bearers to accommodate a range of engines in order to cope with engine shortages. 8,340 Avro 504s had been produced by the end of 1918. The improved, redesigned and radial-engined 504N with a new undercarriage was produced by Avro in 1925. After evaluation of two prototypes, one powered by the Bristol Lucifer and the other by the Armstrong-Siddeley Lynx, the Lynx-powered aircraft was selected by the RAF to replace the 504K. 592 were built between 1925 and 1932, equipping the RAF's five flying training schools, while also being used as communication aircraft. The 504N was also exported to the armed forces of Belgium, Brazil, Chile, Denmark, Greece, Thailand and South Africa, with licensed production taking place in Denmark, Belgium, Canada and Japan. The RAF's 504Ns were finally replaced in 1933 by the Avro Tutor, with small numbers continuing in civilian use until 1940, when seven were impressed into RAF service, where they were used for target- and glider-towing. | |
Beaufighter
Manufacturer : Bristol Production Began : 1940 Number Built : 5564 | Beaufighter BRISTOL BEAUFIGHTER The Bristol Beaufighter was a Torpedo Bomber and had a crew of two. with a maximum speed of 330mph and a ceiling of 29,000 feet. maximum normal range of 1500 miles but could be extended to 1750 miles. The Bristol Beaufighter carried four 20mm cannon in the belly of the aircraft and upto six .303in browning machine guns in the wings. it could also carry eight 3 -inch rockets, 1605 lb torpedo or a bomb load of 1,000 lb. The Bristol Beaufighter first flew in July 1939 and with some modifications entered service with the Royal Air Force in July 1940. In the winter of 1940 - 1941 the Beaufighter was used as a night fighter. and in March 1941 the aircraft was used at Coastal Command as a long range strike aircraft. and in 1941, the Beaufighter arrived in North Africa and used as a forward ground attack aircraft. The Bristol Beaufighter was used also in India, Burma and Australia. A total of 5,564 Beaufighters were built until production in Britain finished in 1945, but a further 364 were built in Australia for the Australian Air Force | |
DH9
Manufacturer : De Havilland Production Began : 1917 Retired : 1920 Number Built : 4091 | DH9 The first deliveries were made in November 1917 to 108 Squadron RFC and it first went into combat over France in March 1918 with 6 Squadron, and by July 1918 nine squadrons operational over the Western Front were using the type. The DH.9's performance in action over the Western Front was a disaster, with heavy losses incurred, both due to its poor performance and to engine failures, despite the prior derating of its engine. Between May and November 1918, two squadrons on the Western Front (Nos. 99 and 104) lost 54 shot down, and another 94 written off in accidents. Nevertheless, on 23 August 1918 a DH9 flown by Lieutenant Arthur Rowe Spurling of 49 Squadron, with his observer, Sergeant Frank Bell, single-handedly attacked thirty Fokker D.VII fighters, downing five of them.[citation needed] Captain John Stevenson Stubbs managed 11 aerial victories in a DH9, including the highly unusual feat of balloon busting with one. The DH.9 was also more successful against the Turkish forces in the Middle East, where they faced less opposition, and it was used extensively for coastal patrols, to try to deter the operations of U-boats. Following the end of the First World War, DH.9s operated by 47 Squadron and 221 Squadron were sent to southern Russia in 1919 in support of the White Russian Army of General Denikin during the Russian Civil War. The last combat use by the RAF was in support of the final campaign against Mohammed Abdullah Hassan (known by the British as the "Mad Mullah") in Somalia during January—February 1920. Surprisingly, production was allowed to continue after the end of the war into 1919, with the DH.9 finally going out of service with the RAF in 1920 | |
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 | |
Hart
Manufacturer : Hawker Production Began : 1930 Number Built : 1042 | Hart During the mid 1920’s The British Air Ministry recoignised the need for a light Bomber. The options were proposed the Avro Antelope, Fairey Fox and the Hawker Hart. Due to the low cost of maintenance for the hawker hart. It was chosen over the other two. The first prototype flew in June 1928 (J9052). Hawker Harts were first used in 1930 by No.33 Squadron at Eastchurch. Many of these aircraft were used overseas in India, the Middle East and South Africa, with some alterations being made to tropicalise the aircraft. With the Outcome being the Hart India. The Hawker Hart saw service during the Abyssinian Crisis in 1935/36 and served also in the North West Frontier of India. However, in Britain, most were being replaced by 1936, some still operating well into World War Two. Mainly in communication and Training roles until 1943 having been used by a total of 20 RAF and AAF Squadrons. A total of 1042 of this aircraft were built. The Hawker Hart saw service with many air forces. Including The Swedish Air Force who used it to great success as a dive bomber. (calling the Hart the B4), Egyptian Air Force, Royal Indian Air Force, Southern Rhodesian Air Force and Yugoslavian air force. | |
Hind
Manufacturer : Hawker Production Began : 1935 | Hind The Hawker Hind entered service with the Royal Air Force in November1935 and eventually 20 RAF bomber squadrons equipped with Hawker Hinds. Many Hinds were also sold to foreign customers including Afghanistan, the Irish Free State, Latvia, Persia (Iran), Portugal, South Africa, Switzerland, and Yugoslavia. The Hawker Hind was gradually phased out of frontline service from 1936 onwards and replaced by the Fairey Battle and Bristol Blenheim. At the outbreak of world war two only 613 squadorn was still equipped with Hawker Hinds in the roll of Army co-operation before re-equipping the Hawker Hector in November 1939. The Hawker Hind became a training aircraft from 1938 being the next step up from basic training on Tiger Moths. In 1941, Hinds flew combat missions in their original role as light bombers. South African Hinds were employed against Italian forces in Kenya, Yugoslav Hinds were used against the Germans and Italians. | |
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. | |
Wapiti
Manufacturer : Westland Production Began : 1927 Retired : 1944 Number Built : 558 | Wapiti The prototype first flew on 7 March 1927. Initial tests showed poor control, and the prototype was modified with a much larger tail and horn-balanced ailerons, solving these problems. (It was later discovered that a 2-foot (0.61 m) fuselage section had been omitted from the prototype – as handling was now acceptable, it was not reinstated.) The Wapiti performed well during RAF trials, while using significant amounts of DH.9A components, and was declared the winner of the competition, an initial contract for 25 aircraft being placed in October 1927. The Wapita entered service with No. 84 Squadron RAF in Iraq in June 1928. It was heavily used in Iraq and India in the Army Cooperation role, acting also sometimes as a bomber or reconnaissance aircraft. Wapitis of No. 20 squadron escorted Victoria troop carriers in the evacuation of Kabul (the Kabul Airlift) in December 1928. It was still in service in India until 1942. In Britain, Wapitis served with the Auxiliary Air Force from 1929 to 1937. It was also flown by Australia and Canada, where it saw service at the start of the Second World War. The prototype Wapiti V, registered G-AAWA, was used for demonstration flights in Argentina and Uruguay on floats, powered by a 550 hp Armstrong Siddeley Panther IIA engine. It was later modified as the Bristol Pegasus-powered Westland PV-6 or Wapiti VII, re-registered G-ACBR (also known as the Houston-Wallace after the patron Lucy, Lady Houston), for an attempt to fly over Mount Everest. Flown by Flt Lt David F. McIntyre and accompanied by a Westland PV-3 the two aircraft became the first to fly over Mount Everest on 3 April 1933. The PV-6 was later designated the Wallace Mk I, bearing serial K3488 which introduced a number of improvements. A total of 68 Wapitis were converted to Wallace Mk I standard. |
No.603 Sqn RAF Artwork |
Vickers Supermarine Spitfire Mk Ia X4277 XT-M. by M A Kinnear. | Wounded Eagle by Ivan Berryman. | Clipped Signature - Peter Olver. |
Clipped Signature - Keith Lawrence. | Clipped Signature - Ray Harrington. | Clipped Signature - Bert Winwood. |
Head on Attack by Robert Taylor | Biggin Trio by Ivan Berryman. | The Chain by Ivan Berryman. (PC) |
Tribute to Basil Stapleton by Ivan Berryman. | Tribute to George Kemp 'Sheep' Gilroy by Ivan Berryman. | A Call to Arms by David Pentland. (P) |
Spitfire Country by Nicolas Trudgian. | Stung by the Wasp by Stan Stokes. |
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