Pilots who flew with Bomb in 1 squadron. Most pictures are from Bomb's collection. Some other squadron staff are mentioned here as well. Thanks Michael Schoeman for the captions.
KIA "Killed in Action"
KIFA "Killed in Flying Accident"
POW "Prisoner of War"
WIA "Wounded in Action"
SD "Shot Down"
DOW "Died of Wounds"
SD, KIA
Herbert, Lt William Lemuel Lord “Billy”. Score 1 probable and 2 damaged.
From Durban. Joined 1 Sqdn on 24.7.41 serving during Operation Crusader. He was KIA on 13.2.42 when shot down in flames by a Bf.109. His grave was found near his wrecked Hurricane close to the Via Balbia, the Bardia-Tobruk road. Now buried at the Knightsbridge War Cemetary. A popular member of the Sqdn.
Maclean, Capt Alan Delville “Jerks”. Awarded DFC 11.8.44. Score: 1 confirmed, 1 probable and 5 damaged.
From Kimberley. Joined 1 Sqdn 27.9.41 and served during Crusader, 1st Alamein and Alam Halfa. His tour ended on 9.9.42, having scored 1-1-2. He returned “up North” being seconded to 81 Sqdn RAF on 26.8.43 as a flight commander. He served (with “Moon” Collingwood) during the Imphal/Kohima siege, scoring 3 more damaged (all Ki.43 Oscar fighters). RTU in 1944 he was an air fighting instructor at 11 O.T.U. He returned to 1 Sqdn just after the war ended. He later flew a tour during the Korean War but then left the SAAF. He worked in the Natal area but was killed in a motor accident.
POW
Williams, Lt Harold C. Score: 1 confirmed victory.
1 Sqdn from 15.4.42, taking part at 1st Alamein and Alam Halfa. Taken PoW on 8.10.42 after flying into rising ground in misty weather while on a ground strafing mission. Sat up when the German burial party arrived, giving them a shock! Held at Campo PG.47 and later at Stalag IIIA.
KIA
Gaynor, Maj John Henry “Harry”. Awarded DFC 23.4.43. MiD (posthumously) 1.1.45. Score 5 and a share confirmed, and 5 damaged.
Born 18.10.17 in Johannesburg. Joined SAAF 11.40. Went “up North” and joined 1 Sqdn 16.4.42. Served during 1st Alamein, Alam Halfa and El Alamein, becoming A Flight CO from 22.1.43. He reached his 200th op hour but had it extended until 8.4.43 when he reached 222 op hours. RTU 25.4.43 and served briefly with 10 Sqdn in 7.43. Going to Italy, he joined 1 Sqdn as a flight commander again, on 7.9.43 but on 23rd transferred to 7 Sqdn. (He had given a memorable aerobatic display in a captured Bf.109G shortly after re-joining 1 Sqdn.). He returned to 1 Sqdn on 9.11.43. On 19.12.43 he was posted as a supernumerary officer to 2 Sqdn and took command of it on 3.1.44. He was KIA while strafing on 3.3.44 when he flew into HT wires at low level. He was 27. He was buried near Avezzano but reintered at the Beachhead Cemetary at Anzio. One of the most popular OC’s of 2 Sqdn, he was known to the ground staff as “the Mighty Atom,” being short in physical stature only.
Collingwood, Capt Robert Joseph Peter “Moon”. Awarded DFC 4.12.42. Score: 5 victories, 1 probably and 3 damaged.
From Durban. St Aidan’s College, Grahamstown. After flying training joined 5 Sqdn with Biden on 13.8.41. Had started fighter training when posted “up North” and joined 1 Sqdn on 27.9.41. Fought in Operation Crusader, 1st Alamein and Alam Halfa. Scored 4 kills, 1 probable and 1 damaged. RTU 9.42. Joined 10 Sqdn on home defence 8.12.42, transfering to 6 Sqdn at Cape Town until 6.7.43. Returned “up North” joining 152 Sqdn RAF on secondment. Transferred to 81 Sqdn RAF in 10.43. In early 1944 based with a detachment at “Broadway” (a jungle airstrip) behind the Jap lines. He was scrambled on 13.3.44 but was intercepted by Jap Ki.43 fighters just after take-off. In spite of this he shot down one and damaged two more (in fact, one of these might have crashed as well), thus becoming the last SAAF ace of WW II. Fought in the Imphal/Kohima sieges in India (on border of Burma). RTU. Fighter instructor at 11 O.T.U. Back with 1 Sqdn in 1945, he was to have served with it against the Japs but the war ended too soon. Returned to civilian occupation in Durban area. Died in a car accident about 1975 on the Pietermaritzburg road.
KIFA
Marshall, Lt Leslie Mance “Les”. Held a BSc degree. Score: 1 confirmed.
From Boksburg (his next-of-kin lived at Springs). He joined 1 Sqdn on 16.4.42 and served during 1st Alamein, Alam Halfa and El Alamein. He was seen to get into a spin and crash on 27.11.42, being killed, during the first 1 Sqdn Spitfire mission. No enemy aircraft were in the vicinity at the time. Aged 21. Comemorated on the Alamein Memorial.
Haynes, Capt Barry Wildenham. Scored one damaged.
Form Empangeni, Natal. Joined 1 Sqdn on 16.4.42, seriving during 1st Alamein, Alam Halfa and El Alamein. RTU in 3.43. Served with 10 Sqdn 6/7.43 then as a flying instructor. Went to Italy and briefly in 1 Sqdn 2.44 before transfering to 2 Sqdn on 27.2.44. His tour ended on 17.11.44. RTU. In 1969 he was manager of Comair in the OFS.
SD, POW
Schofield, 2/Lt F.J “Fred”.
Joined 1 Sqdn on 15.4.42 and fought during 1st Alamein. Shot down (probably by ground fire) on 23.7.42 after having damaged a Bf.109 and was taken PoW. In PoW Camp in Italy (Campo 47?) and later in Germany at Stalag Luft III.
SD, KIA
Pryde, Lt Ian Raymond Rutherford “Bobby” / “Pongo” Score 3 confirmed victories and two damaged.
Of Johannesburg. Went “up North” and underwent fighter training at 71 O.T.U. in 1941. Joined 1 Sqdn on 12.1.42. Served during 1st Alamein, Alam Halfa and El Alamein. Shot down and KIA by ground fire or a 109 while on a ground attack mission on 4.11.42. Age 24. Comemorated on the Alamein Memorial.
SD, WIA, DOW
2/Lt Reginald George “Reg”/”Ginger” Baker,
Served with 1 Sqdn 16.4.42-23.7.42 PoW and badly burnt towards the end of the First Battle of Alamein. Although taken to a German dressing station, there was not enough morphine even for their own wounded. Before he was shot down one of the other pilots saw him flying through the debris of an exploding Stuka but it was never confirmed as his victory. DoW 27.7.42. Alamein War Cemetry. (Death reported on 23.7.42 is in error.)
KIFA
Lanham, Capt Jeffrey Roper “Stinky” / “Jeff”. Score one victory and a shared damaged.
Born 14.4.21. Of Olifants Hoek, Kuruman and Bloemfontein. Studied Surveying at UCT. Having gained his “wings” in ealy 1942, he joined 1 Sqdn 16.4.42 and served during 1st Alamein, Alam Halfa and El Alamein. Shot down the first Fw.190 to fall to anybody in the Western Desert Air Force, 20.3.43. In early 4.43 he became a flight commander but his tour expired on 19th. He had it extended but on 22.5.43 he suffered engine failure and went down in the sea. His body was not recovered and he is commemorated on the Alamein Memorial.
SD, WIA, POW
Simmons, Flying Officer Roger G. RAF. 1 victory with SAAF.
Seconded to SAAF and joined 1 Sqdn 13.11.41 as a P/O. Fought in Operation Crusader. Transferred to 238 Sqdn RAF in late 5.42. He returned to 1 Sqdn on 2.7.42, taking part in 1st Alamein, Alam Halfa, and El Alamein. On 24.3.43 he was shot down and wounded by flak and taken PoW. Ending up at Stalag Luft III (PoW No.1350) he was promoted to F/L while a prisoner.
SD
Meek, Capt Thomas Albert “Tom” / “Blind Chum”. Score 1 confirmed and 1 damaged.
From Sea Point, Cape Town. Initially with 5 Sqdn briefly 29.8.41-25.9.41 he joined 1 Sqdn “up North” on 27.9.41. He served during Crusader, 1st Alamein and Alam Halfa until his tour ended on 9.9.42 – surviving despite his poor eye sight! On 3.8.42 he had been involved in a mid-air collision with “Bomb” Finney (who baled out) and managed to crash land. He was seconded to the RAF and joined 234 Sqdn RAF in the UK on 16.7.44. He then converted to flying the Typhoon and transferred to 183 Sqdn RAF in 2nd Tactical Air Force, flying ground attack missions in Germany. His war ended in March or April 1945, on medical grounds. After the war he managed a fish factory until retirement to Klein Brakrivier.
SD
Connell, Captain Gordon Raymond “Ray” Awarded DFC 14.11.44. Mentioned in Despatches (MiD) 14.6.45. Held BSc degree. Score: 3 victories, 1 probable and 6 and one shared damaged.
Born in PE on 16.10.17. Grey College. Joined 1 Sqdn “up North” on 27.9.41 Fought in Operation Crusader, 1st Alamein and Alam Halfa. Scored all his victories on this first tour. During Crusader he was stuck alone in clouds and every time he came out he ran into enemy aircraft, damaging two Bf.109F’s, a Macchi C.202 and a Ju.87 before his own aircraft was hit and he crash landed. 2 of these were later confirmed. He came home with Collingwood and Biden in 9.42. Returning “up North” in 10.43, he served briefly with 1 Sqdn from 2nd to 27th before joining 7 Sqdn as B Flight commander. On 21.7.44 he was 35 operational flying hours short of completing his second tour when he was shot down by ground fire over Italy and crashed in the mountains. He evaded capture amd crossed the lines on 9.9.44 and returned to 7 Sqdn next day. RTU on completion of tour.Married Miss Betty Scott in Cairo.
SD
Seccombe, Maj John Thorne “Johnny”. Awarded DFC 1.10.43 & bar to DFC 14.11.44, MiD 1.1.43. Score: 3 confirmed and 2 damaged.
From Johannesburg. Flying training at 22 Air School 1941. Joined 1 Sqdn on 24.10.41 and served during Operation Crusader, 1st Alamein and Alam Halfa. Tour ended 9.9.42. RTU. Flew with 10 Sqdn in the Union 1942-7.4.43. Returned “up North” to 1 Sqdn on 16.5.43. This second tour ended in Italy on 10.12.43. Returned to Italy as CO of 1 Sqdn on 14.2.44 and ended his third tour and RTU on 24.10.44. He had been ordered to stop flying on 20.9.44 when his total of operational flying hours had reached 557. In 1945 he was designated as the 7 Wing Sweep Leader for the Far East campaign against the Japs but fractured his spine in an accident. He was a Transvaal opening batsman in cricket. Died in 3.1985.
SD
Biden, Capt Anthony Jasper “Tony”. Awarded DFC on 8.9.44. Scored 3 victories.
From East London although born in Grahamstown on 19.1.19. Joined 5 Sqdn in the Union on 13.8.41, after flying training. Started fighter training under Maj “Jack” Frost but posted to Egypt 24.9.41. To 71 Operational Training Unit (O.T.U.) RAF 25.10.41-18.11.41. To 1 Sqdn 6.12.41. Fought in Operation Crusader, 1st Alamein (7.42) and Alam Halfa. Scored 2 kills. Returned to the Union (RTU) on 18.9.42. Posted to 10 Sqdn on home defence 21.1.43-30.7.43. Back “up North” & joined 1 Sqdn again 8.43. Served in Italy, scoring another victory. On 20.4.44 he was attacked in error by USAAF P-38 Lightnings while covering an Australian pilot in a dinghy in the Adriatic Sea. He out-flew the lot! RTU on 22.6.44. Retired to Cape Town later, where he died.
O’Farrell, Lt George H. Score 1 confirmed, 1 probable.
Served with 1 Sqdn from 16.4.42 till 3.4.43, taking part in the 1st Alamein, Alam Halfa and El Alamein on Hurricanes, and also the subsequent battles in Tunisia, on Spitfires. Was known in 1 Sqdn as “Ge-aarge” (for George)! He RTU and joined 10 Sqdn on 15.6.43, just before it disbanded and then served as an air fighting instructor at 11 O.T.U.
SD, KIA
Rhodes, Capt Thomas “Tom”.
From Durban. Joined PF. At SA Military College on Course 367G in 1937. Won the Sword of Honour. Joined 1 Sqdn 3.42 and served during 1st Alamein. Left 1 Sqdn on 4.8.42 and converted to bombers. To 21 Sqdn and shot down and killed by flak during a raid on 27.10.42 in a Baltimore III.
SD, KIA
Hope, Lt Stafford Mating “Staf”. Score: 1 probable.
Form Pietermaritzburg and Richmond, Natal. After training at 71 O.T.U. in 1941, he joined 1 Sqdn on 22.3.42. He was briefly attached to 2 Sqdn 6-15.4.42. He fought during 1st Alamein until KIA on 27.7.42 when shot down by a Bf.109 (reputedly flown by Lt “Fifi” Stahlschmidt of I/JG.27). He was 21. He is buried at the El Alamein War Cemetary.
KIFA
Taylor, Lt Hector Norrie (“Reg”?) Score 1 confirmed victory.
From Mowbray, Cape Town. Served with 1 Sqdn from 17.4.43 in North Africa, at Malta and in Italy, until failed to return during an operational flight in bad weather on 29.10.43 – when he was probably struck by a bolt of lightning. (One other Spitfire on the mission was, in fact, so damaged.) Comemorated on the Malta Mermorial.
SD, WIA
MacRobert, 2/Lt Melville “Mello”
After training at 22 Air School he joined 1 Sqdn on 24.7.41. On 3.9.41 he was wounded while in his tent during an Italian strafing attack by Fiat G.50s. He was wounded and shot down on 24.9.41 by a Bf.109 and baled out. Lt HCW Liebenberg saw this and landed in the Desert and picked “Mello” up and flew him back to base, just as Kershaw had done with Maj Frost earlier that year. During Crusader he was shot down by flak or by a 109 on 17.12.41 and joined in the ground fighting, returning to the Sqdn on 20th. RTU and with 6 Sqdn from about 3.42. After the war he was OC of 1 Sqdn (Citizen Force) by 8.47, until 8.49 then moved to 21 (CF) Sqdn as OC.
Jory, 2/Lt E.E. “Ernie”. Scored one or two damaged.
He joined 1 Sqdn on 16.4.42 and served during 1st Alamein at least. Probably completed his tour with 1 Sqdn, but nothing further known.
SD
Van Vliet, Maj Cornelius Arthur “Corrie”. Awarded DFC 20.1.42. MiD 1.1.42 and again on 8.6.44. Score 4 confirmed victories.
From Johannesburg. Fought in East Africa as a bomber pilot with 11 Sqdn 6.5.40-3.41, flying Fairey Battles. RTU after 22 sorties totaling more than 118 op hours. He had been engaged by Italian aircraft and had destroyed 9 of them on the ground by bombing. Went “up North” again, this time as a fighter pilot, joining 1 Sqdn on 28.6.41. Served as a flight commander, during Operation Crusader. RTU in 3.42 and OC 10 Sqdn 20.4.42-4.12.42. Returned “up North” to command 3 Sqdn from 7.12.42 until 1.4.43 when he transferred to 7 Sqdn as OC. On 23.7.42 he led the 7 Sqdn fomation over Crete during Operation Thesis. On 15th September took over the 7 Sqdn detachment on Cos Island in The Dodecannese island group, where he flew 16 sorties (and scored his last victory) before the Germans landed on 3rd October and overwhelmed the garrison. Corrie escaped from Cos in a Greek fishing boat. He was later posted to Italy and took over 4 Sqdn on 10.11.43. He was grounded and RTU on 31.12.43 for medical reasons. He was soon flying again, as CFI 11 O.T.U. from 3.44 to 12.44. Posted to the UK, he attended the Central Gunnery School in 1945, and then the Fighter Leaders’ School at Tangmere. After the war he moved to Southern Rhodesia and died in Zimbabwe after a long and painful illness, which he bore bravely until the end. (His score has sometimes appeared in published works with the aircraft that he destroyed on the ground in East African wrongly counted as aerial victories.)
Salmon, Lt John Henry “Jan Vis”/ “Fish”
Was with 1 Sqdn 15.4.42 till 3.10.42 serving during 1st Alamein and Alam Halfa. RTU. Was at 43 Air School by 2.43, probably as an instructor.
SD, KIA
Bailey, Lt Douglas George “Doug”, "Burma kid", From Florida, Tvl.
Started flying training in Union and completed it in S Rhodesia. Seconded to RAF & sent to India.
Joined 17 Sqdn RAF in Burma 2.42.
Credited with 2 “kills” in Burma during the retreat but these cannot be substantiated.
Returned and sent to Egypt.
Joined 1 Sqdn 7.8.42. Fought in Battles of Alam Halfa and El Alamein. At the end of El Alamein he was out ground strafing in his Hurricane IIc when he was shot down (probably by ground fire) on 3.11.42 and crashed into the sea just off the coast and was killed.
Commemorated on the Alamein Memorial.
KIA
Smith, Lt Harold Fulford. BSc (Wits). Score 1/3rd share confirmed, 1 probable and 3 damaged.
From Johannesburg. Joined the SAAF 1940. Went “up North” and joined 1 Sqdn 16.4.42.
Served during 1st Alamein, Alam Halfa and El Alamein. KIA on 25.3.43 during a dog-fight with the Italians when his Spitfire was rammed by a Macchi C.202. Had flown 187 operational hours by then. Comemorated on the Alamein Memorial.
SD, POW
Waugh, Capt Laurence Robertson Stuart. Awarded DFC 4.12.42. MiD 1.1.43. Score 6 confirmed victories, 2 probable and 4 damaged.
Born 12.6.21 in Johannesburg. Trained briefly on fighters at 5 Sqdn 13.8.41 to c9.41. Went “up North” and joined 1 Sqdn 27.9.41. Fought in Operation Crusader, 1st Alamein and Alam Halfa. RTU 18.9.42. Did a flying instructor’s course at 62 AS, but late in 1943 went “up North” again. He was seconded to the RAF and was first attached in a supernumery capacity to 417 Sqdn RCAF. He was soon B Flight cdr in 601 Sqdn RAF from 10.43 until shot down by flak on 31.12.43. He was a PoW at Stalag Luft III.
Phillips, Capt Thomas (or Tom?) W. “Tom” Score 1 confirmed, 1 probable and 3 damaged.
From Benoni. Joined 1 Sqdn on 6.12.41 during Operation Crusader. Later fought during 1st Alamein and Alam Halfa. On 12.10.42 was posted on secondment to 238 Sqdn RAF, becoing its temprary CO on 22.11.42 and CO on 25.11.42. Fought at El Alamein. RTU.
SD
Faure, Lt-Col Johannes Morkel “Hannes”. Awarded DSO 2.45, DFC 23.3.43 and bar to DFC 23.5.45. Score: 5 ½ victories, 1 probable and 1 damaged.
Born on 4.11.17 at Faure, Cape. Joined the SA Artillery in 1940 but transferred to the SAAF. Went “up North” and trained with 71 O.T.U. 10/11.41. Joined 1 Sqdn on 12.1.42. Attached to 92 Sqdn RAF 8/9.42 as an acting flight commander, flying Spitfires, and retturned to 1 Sqdn as a flight commander 18.9.42. Served during 1st Alamein, Alam Halfa and El Alamein, scoring 5-1-1. He was shot down by ground fire behind the enemy lines on 4.11.42 but joined up with British armoured cars. Returned to 1 Sqdn after two days of “swanning” with them, shooting up retreating German and Italian transport. His tour ended on 5.12.42 & RTU after flying more than 200 operational hours. He flew with 6 Sqdn on home defemnce 19.1.43-c6.43. Returned “up North” and joined 1 Sqdn at Malta on 24.6.43, taking part in the invasion of
KIFA
Rabie, Capt Schalk Willem “Bill”. Awarded DFC 23.3.43. Score 3 and ½ share confirmed victories.
From Benoni. Joined the PF. To 1 Sqdn on 15.4.42. Served 1st Alamein, Alam Halfa and El Alamein. Attached to 92 Sqdn with Hannes Faure and Sinclair 18.8.42 till 13.10.42. Left on medical grounds. RTU 12.42. Air fighting instructor at 74 O.T.U. by 3.43. Posted to 10 Sqdn as flight commander on 2.5.44. While the Sqdn was working up in Palestine and Syria he was killed while doing aerobatics at low level on 23.6.44. He was such an outstanding and popular pilot that his funeral was attended not only by the Sqdn but other SAAF and RAF personnel. Age28. Buried at Aleppo War Cemetary, Syria.
Sinclair, Capt Colin Robert. MiD 1.1.46.
From Scottburgh and Johannesburg. Joined 1 Sqdn 16.4.42 and served in First Alamein. Attached to 92 Sqdn RAF 18.8.42 until 11.1.43. Became an air fighting instructor with Finney at 73 O.T.U. 3.43-9.43. RTU. Air fighting instructor at 11 O.T.U. 1.44-4.44. Joined 9 Sqdn “up North” as a fight cdr on 27.5.44. Transferred as a flight cdr to 11 Sqdn on 18.7.44 and served in Italy until 27.3.45. After a brief break, he returned to 11 Sqdn 23.4.45 until 2.6.45. By 8.45 he was with 7 Wing. Became a dentist after the war.
SD, WIA, KIA
Metelerkamp, Maj Peter Carel Rex. Score: 5 confirmed and 5 damaged.
Born 4.12.18 at London, England, of South African parents. Of Knysna, Cape. Joined the SSB in 1936. Transfering to the PF he was at the SA Military College in 1936. He gained his “wings” on 1.6.38. He joined 1 Sqdn as a flight commander on 23.3.42. Served during 1st Alamein and Alam Halfa, being temporary OC from 4.7.42 until himself wounded on 1.9.42 when his Hurricane was damaged by a Bf.109. He was in hospital until 7.11.42 and returned to 1 Sqdn to command it on 13.11.42. On 13.12.42 he was chasing a Ju.88 when his Spitfire was hit in the coolant system by return fire and he crashed in the sea, being KIA. He was 24. His body was later recovered and lies in the Benghazi War Cemetray.
Eloff, Lt Johannes Zacharias “Johnny”
Joined 1 Sqdn on 24.4.41 and served during Operations Brevity and Battleaxe, until 6.11.41. He remained in the SAAF after the war. Served during the Berlin Airlift and with 2 Sqdn in Korea as a Capt in 1952. He ferried a C-130 Hercules to South Africa in 1962. He was OC of Northern Air Defence Sector and by 1975 was OC of CFS Dunottar on Impalas. Retired as Brigadier.
Note the unusual paint scheme of his Hurricane.
SD, WIA
Finney, Maj Stewart Alexander “Bomb”. Awarded DFC 10.6.44 and bar to DFC 8.45. MiD 14.2.44. Score 1 victory, 1 probable and one shared damaged.
Started work at Modderfontein Dynamite Factory, hence nickname “Bomb.” Trained with 5 Sqdn in the Union 8/9.41. Went “up North” and joined 1 Sqdn 6.12.41, flying more than 200 operational hours during Operation Crusader, 1st Alamein, Alam Halfa and El Alamein. He served as an air fighting instructor at 73 O.T.U. in Egypt then returned to 1 Sqdn on 10.9.43 in Italy, becoming OC of B Flight in 12.43. He transferred to 2 Sqdn as commander on 21.3.44. He completed his tour on 27.5.44 with an additional 206 op hours. RTU 2.6.44. Returned “up North” to be CO of 2 Sqdn again from 20.10.44. In 4.45 he was rested and sent on a close support staff course at RAF Old Sarum in England for a few weeks. Returning at the end of the war to 7 Wing. Was OC troops on the troopship that took the Wing to Ceylon, arriving too late for the war against the Japs. Lives in retirement in Cape Town area.
SD, POW
Fulton, 2/Lt Wesley Earl Stuart.
Born in Rosedale, Canada. Came to South Africa. Attached to RAF and joined 94 Sqdn joining a number of other SAAF pilots with it on 13.10.41. Posted to the Middle East Pilots’ Pool and then to 71 O.T.U. in 12.41. He joined 1 Sqdn on 23.3.42 but was posted to 2 Sqdn on 6.4.42. Known in 2 as “our Yank” – probably because of his North American accent. In the early days of the Battle of Gazala he was shot down by an enemy fighter (Macchi or 109?) and taken PoW on 30.5.42. Held at Campo 5 in Italy he was sent to Germany after the Italian surrender and arrived at Stalag Luft III on 29.11.43. Nothing further known.
SD, POW
Galyer, Pilot Officer JH “Jack” RAF. 1 enemy aircraft damaged while serving with SAAF.
Seconded to the SAAF and joined 1 Sqdn 13.11.41. Fought during Operation Crusader. In late 5.42 he transferred to 238 Sqdn RAF as a F/L but was s/d on 9.10.42 and taken PoW. Later in Stalag Luft III as PoW No.762.
Capt Servaas de K(…..?) Viljoen, Score: 1 confimed, one half share and also one third share confirmed, 1 damaged.
Served with 1 Sqdn in circa 5/6.40. Attached to 112 Sqdn RAF 10.6.40-7.40. Returned to 1 Sqdn c7.40 until 1941, serving during the East African Campaign. He first scored on 4.10.40 when he shot down a Fiat CR.42 (probably of the 412a Squadriglia). He also strafed enemy aircraft on the ground. RTU. With 1 Sqdn again 18.8.42-11.4.43, as flight commander from late 1942. He had once returned to the Sqdn on a camel! Remaining in the Middle East, he served as an air fighting instructor at 73 O.T.U.
SD, WIA
P/O George N (Neal?) Halliday, RAF
Served with 1 Sqdn from 13.11.41 until shot down by 109s and WiA on 13.12.41. To hospital. Returned to 1 Sqdn on 27.3.42 and served until end May, 1942 when he transferred to 238 Sqdn RAF.
SD, POW
Kershaw, Maj Robert Harold Carlisle “Bob”. Awarded DSO 11.4.41. DFC 21.8.45. MiD 24.9.41. Scored 1 probable and 2 damaged.
From Cape Town. Had joined 3 Sqdn in East Africa by 10.40. While strafing Diredawa airfield he saw Capt JE “Jack” Frost (the top SAAF ace) shot down by Italian ground fire and force land on a satellite landing ground to the main airfield on 15.3.41. Kershaw landed under Italian fire, picked up Frost and flew back to base. He was awarded the DSO. He was injured on 20.4.41 (non-flying) and RTU. He returned “up North” and joined 1 Sqdn on 18.8.41, serving during Operation Crusader. He went RTU in about 4.42. After brief service with 10 Sqdn in 8.42 he was with 6 Sqdn at the Cape until 4.7.43. Returning ‘up North” in about July 1943 he flew with 2 Sqdn in Italy until 26.10.43. He then transferred to 7 Sqdn as a flight commander and flew until 1944. RTU. He returned to Italy as OC of 7 Sqdn in 10.44 to start his 4th fourth combat tour. On 10.3.45 while making his second pass at a ground target he was shot down by flak and taken PoW. Returning to the Union after the war, he served in the SAAF Reserve.
SD, KIFA
Laing, 2/Lt Jack Dennis From Brakpan. He was a WO II pilot before he was commisioned. He flew briefly with 1 Sqdn from 14.2.42 before transfering to 4 Sqdn on 11.4.42. On 17.4.42 he suffered an engine failure in a crowded landing circuit and probably found the Tomahawk less forgiving than the more docile Hurricane had flown with 1 Sqdn. He crashed and was killed. Aged 22. He is buried at the Halfaya-Sollum War Cemetery. He was NOT “shot down.”
SD, WIA, KIFA
Le Mesurier, Major Gerald John “Lemmie”. Awarded DFC 23.4.43. Scored: 3 victories, 1 probable and 1 damaged.
Born 27.6.14. Of O’Kiep, Namaqualand and Cape Town, he studied Surveying at UCT. He joined the SSB in 1936 and later transferred to the PF. After a course at the SA Military College he became a B Grade flying instructor at CFS by 6.39. He was acting OC of FTS Baragwanath 3.40-7.40. He joined 1 Sqdn in East Africa on 8.11.40, becoming A Flt commander in 12.40. He was acting CO of the Sqdn in 11.40, 2/3.41 and 6.41. RTU on 12.7.41. He re-joined 1 Sqdn on 24.4.42 and became CO on 10.5.42. Fought at 1st Alamein until 4.7.42 when he was wounded in action – having led 1 Sqdn in the SAAF’s greatest “Stuka Party” the previous day. Although still suffering from his wounds he returned as temporary OC (non-flying) 9/10.42. Returned to flying status, he was OC in 10.42 but ended his tour on 13.11.42 and was sent home the next day on medical grounds. “Major Lenmmie” as he was known, had become an institution in 1 Sqdn. He was acting SFI at Waterkloof. In 1943 he was sent to the UK to attend No.5 Course at the Empire CFS but was KIFA on 8.7.43 while practicing dive-bombing in a Miles Master trainer which collided with an Oxford. He is buried at Brookwood Military Cemetery in Surrey, England,
SD, WIA
Le Roux, Lt Franciskus Frederikus Josefus Erdans “Frans”.
Joined 1 Sqdn on 15.10.41, flying during Operation Crusader. He was wounded in action on 13.2.41 with splinters in his calf when shot down by a Bf.109, the same fight in which “Billy” Herbert was KIA. Both were shot down by Lt HJ Marseille of I/JG.27. He returned to the Sqdn later that day. His tour ended on 31.7.42 just after 1st Alamein. In the Union he flew with 10 Sqdn 10.42-1.43. He was apparently involved in a flying accident on 11.2.43
Osler, Lt-Col Malcolm Stephen “Bennie”. Awarded DFC 20.1.42 and bar to DFC 7.4.44. Score: 9 ½ shared confirmed, and 2 damaged. Destroyed one and probably 2 other enemy aircraft on the ground by strafing.
Born 7.3.19 at Benoni. Of Potchefstroom. Worked at New Modderfontein Gold Mine. Joined Transvaal Air Training Sqdn (TATS) in 11.37 for flying training. Joined PF and did the 1938 Military College course. Awarded his “wings” in 2.39. Became a C Grade flying instructor 28.11.39. Joined 1 Sqdn mid-1941 as a flight commander. Became OC on 1.12.41. Fought in Operation Crusader. Completed his tour 10.5.42. RTU. OC of 6 Sqdn from 30.6.42 until early 1943. Attended the SA Military College Staff course 3/5.43. Flying instructor at 24 Air School. Returned “up North” in 9.43 on secondment to Italy with 145 Sqdn RAF as a flight cdr, but transferred to 601 Sqdn on 30.9.43. He took command of it on 15.10.43. Led an attack on a petrol train which resulted in 120,000 gallons of fuel being destroyed. After his last two victories he was landing on the Anzio beachhead airstrip under German artillery fire when his Spitfire hit a shell hole and overturned. He left 601 in 3.44 and was attached to 1 MORU (the Desert Air Force’s Mobile Operations Room, i.e. their radar/fighter direction organisation). He was with 5 (Transport) Wing 10/12.44. Went to UK on a course. Left the SAAF after the war. Died in Johannesburg 22.9.1971, aged 52.
SD, KIA
Powell, 2/Lt William Frederick “Billy”
From Sunnyside, Pretoria. Joined 1 Sqdn on 2.1.42 during the tail end of Crusader. He was KIA during First Alamein when shot down by a Bf.109 on 14.7.42. Age 26. Commemorated on the Alamein Memorial.
Beyers, 2/Lt PJ “Piet”
Joined 1 Sqdn 27.9.41. Shared a tent with Hannes Faure. Returned to the Union at end of his tour on 11.7.42. Fought in Operation Crusader and at start of 1st Alamein.
SD, WIA, KIFA
Maj Kenneth Arthur “Ken” Quirk, DSO 30.5.41. MiD 24.9.41. Score: 2 confirmed and 1 damaged.
Born in Cape Town on 23.2.15. Educated at CBC, Pretoria. Joined the PF. SA Military College, Course 283G from March 1935. Commissioned as 2/Lt in 9.36. Won his “wings” in 1.37. Qualified as flying instructor in 6.37. To 1 Sqdn of the CFS. To the Cape Air Training Sqdn (CATS) as a Wapiti and Tutor instructor in 1938. Considered “an exceptional pilot.” Took part in golf, tennis, athletics, swimming, riding and mountaneering. Served with 6 Sqdn in home defence 19.9.39-8.12.39. Posted to Robert’s Heights. Served with 1 Sqdn in North Africa from 24.4.41. On 16.5.41 he rescued Lt HJP Burger who was shot down by ground fire. Landing his Hurricane in the open desert he burst a tyre but retained control over the aircraft. As he and Burger were getting rid of their parachutes and squeezing into the Hurricane’s narrow cockpit, they came under fire from approaching Axis forces. Quirk was awarded the DSO for the first such rescue in North Africa with a single-engined fighter behind enemy lines while under fire. On 16.6.41 he had just shot down two Stukas and damaged another, all of I/St.G.1, when he was shot down himself (apparently by the 109 of Lt Hoffman of I/JG.27) and baled out, wounded. He was to have returned to 1 Sqdn as a Major and OC but was RTU instead. Converted to twins and joined 23 Sqdn flying Venturas. KIFA on the night of 13.11.42 when his Ventura collided with a 789 Sqdn FAA Swordfish near Brooklyn at Cape Town. Buried Woltemade Cemetery, Cape Town.
WIA
Capt Douglas Smith “Doug”/”Shorty” Rogan, DSO 23.3.43. DFC same date. Score 2 confirmed, 2 probables and 1 damaged.
Joined the PF.Served with 2 Sqdn from 17.9.41. On 12.10.41 he was badly shot up by 109s and his Tomahawk was again damaged on 22nd but he managed to shoot down a 109. On 6.11.41 he finnished of a Savoia S.79 after it had been hit by six others. On 24.11.41, by which time he had 60 “op” hours, he was WiA by ground fire. Flew back to base where one of his legs was amputated. Colonel Laurie Wilmot promised him that if he could be passed fit for flying, he would see to it that Rogan got a posting “up North” again. With Douglas Bader as an example, Doug made it his ambition not to just to return to flying but to return to operations. Fitted with an artifical leg he resumed flying fighters with 6 Sqdn on home defence in the following year. After a check ride he was returned “up North” and posted to 1 Sqdn in 11.42. On one occasion he took off with a mechanic still hanging on to his tailplane but managed to land without damage to either the mechanic or his Spitfire. Landing in a dust storm his Spitfire hit that of another pilot, already on the ground. He began scoring, however, that same month. He was RTU after a successful tour on Spitfires on 2.8.43, by which time he was with 1 Sqdn in Sicily. He became an air fighting instructor at 11 OT.U. Later retired to Knysna.
Lt DC “Charlie” Hewitson, 1 EA damaged.
Served with 1 Sqdn 16.4.42-8.42. Attached or seconded to RAF, serving with 92 Sqdn RAF 18.8.42-about 6.43, damaging a 109 on 30.8.42. He was the brother of the SAAF ace Maj JL Hewitson.
SD, POW
Penberthy, Lt Vivian A (“Red”). Score 3 confirmed victories.
From Langlaagte. Joined 1 Sqdn 24.7.41. Served during Operation Crusader. Shot down on 7.12.41 just after he had shot down a Bf.109 (his 3rd “kill”). Taken PoW. Camp PG.5 in Italy and Stalag Luft III.about 1942.) After the war was CFI of the Midlands Gliding Club in SA in the late 1960.
Please visit this web site in memory of Vivian Penberthy.
KIA
Lt Andrew Fitzgerald Tyrrell, Score: 1 confirmed and 1 probable.
Posted straight to 1 Sqdn 14.10.42 without the benefit of an O.T.U. course. On 6.3.43 Major Moodie saw an example of Tyrrell’s shooting, when he watched a “beautiful deflection” shot bring down a Ju87 of III/StG.3. Gave his life to save another pilot on 25.3.43. His body was only located in 1944 and was interred at Sfax War Cemetary.
KIA
2/Lt Johannes Michiel “Mike” Bredenkamp,
Son of Benjamin and Salomina Bredenkamp of Postmasburg. Served with 1 Sqdn from 23.8.42. On 24.10.42 the tail of his Hurricane was accidentally cut off by the propeller of “Stinky” Lanham’s Hurricane. Bredenkamp baled out but the wind carried his parachute some distance. He was picked up by a South African armoured car unit. On 27.11.42 he was KIA (Missing) in the El Agheila area, having just converted to Spitfires. Age 22. Name on the Alamein Memorial.
KIFA
Lt Basil Aubrey Dyer,
Son of Arthur and Ethel Dyer of Kimberley. Joined 1 Sqdn 14.10.42 without the benefit of O.T.U. training. He was KIFA on 6.11.42 when he spun in during shadow firing practice about 9,6km (6 miles) NE of Burg el Arab. Age 21. Buried Alexandria (Hadra) Cemetry.
KIA
2/Lt Denys de Klerk,
Son of Isaac and Kathleen de Klerk of Berea, Johannesburg. Served briefly with 1 Sqdn 10.8.42-27.8.42 KIA on his 4th “op” when shot down in flames by a Bf.109 near El Alamein. Age 20. Name on the Alamein Memorial.
2/Lt ES “Eddie” Thrash,
Learnt to fly on Tiger Moths and then Masters at 24 Air School, Nigel, in 1941. 1 Sqdn 16.4.42-4.8.42. A popular pilot in 1 Sqdn, but did not remain long with the unit. Probably converted to twins or became an instructor.
2/Lt Ivan Lewis Christianson,
Served with 1 Sqdn 23.8.42-7.11.42. He was transferred for the purpose of converting to multi-engined aircraft, but first served with 1 Aircraft Delivery Unit (ADU) 11.42. Having converted to twins, he was at 75 O.T.U. in 3.43 for General Reconnaissance training. Seconded to the RAF, joining 203 Sqdn by 6.43, flying Baltimores on maritime patrol. When 203 moved to India in November 1943, he remained in the Middle East and transferred to 13 Sqdn flying Blenheim Vs (Bisleys) and converted to Venturas and then Baltimores at the end of the year. It is unclear if he was still with the unit in February 1944 when it joined 3 (B) Wing SAAF for bomber duties. Following desecondment from the RAF he transfered to 5 Wing’s “shuttle” service.
KIA
Lt John MacRae “Johnny” Barclay,
Son of George and Mary Barclay of Durban North. Pre-war he was a trainee draftsman with the SA Railways. At 71 O.T.U. 10.41-11.41. Served briefly with 1 Sqdn from 6.12.41 until 17.12.41 when shot down by a Bf.109 and KIA, SE of Derna. Age 23. Name on the Alamein Memorial.
WIA
Capt Warwick Pare “Wikkie” Wikner, DFC 10.10.44. Score: 1 and one half share confirmed and 1 probable.
From Boksburg. Joined the merchant navy before the war. Joined the SAAF. Served with 1 Sqdn 14.10.42-27.8.43 OTE, having joined without the benefit of an O.T.U. course. He was WiA by ground fire on 13.12.42. With 1 Sqdn again for his second tour 9.12.43-8.7.44 OTE, having served as B Flight commander from 21.3.44.
KIFA
Lt McClellan Eric Sutton “Robbie” Robinson, DFC 28.9.43. Score 5 and one shared confirmed victories, 1 probable and 1 damaged.
Born on 26.1.19 in Johannesburg. By 7.40 was on an air gunner’s course. To pilot training. Served with 1 Sqdn 23.8.42-2.8.43 RTU. Although highly-strung and imaginative, in the opinion of Vivian Voss, 1 Sqdn’s Intelligence Officer, Robinson’s courage enabled him to complete his tour. Flying a Hurricane, he shared his first victory with Servaas Viljoen on 2.11.42. Next day he was damaged by ground fire. Converting to Spitfires shortly afterwards, he began scoring with them in 1.43. On moving to Malta with the Sqdn in 6.43 he had to carry out a one-wheeled landing owing to a malfunction. During the Sicilian Campaign he never had the luck to run into enemy aircraft and was shot down by accident on 14.7.43 by an American P-38. He was picked up by a Greek destroyer off
Capt George Howells Copeland, Score: one shared victory confirmed (actually he scored this “kill” and it was only nominally shared with a RAF pilot), and two damaged.
Commissioned as a 2/Lt in the SAAF on 22.5.42. Served with 1 Sqdn 21.8.42-7.11.42. Transferred out to convert to twins but was instead seconded to the RAF and remained on fighters. 1 ADU 10.11.42-15.5.43. 3 ADU 15.5.43-14.8.43. 81 Sqdn RAF on Spitfire VIIIs, 31.10.43-12.2.45. The Sqdn left the Middle East for India in 11.43 and all his remaining combats were over Burma, including a stint at the “Broadway” airstrip behind the Japanese lines in March 1944. HQ SEAC Communications Sqdn 12.2.45-10.4.45 for a break from “ops”. Back to “ops” on Spitfires with 273 Sqdn RAF 21.7.45-30.8.45. He concluded his operations over South-East Asia that month with the end of the war against the Japs and was deseconded and RTU.
KIA
Lt Graham Clayton “Dicky” Hojem,
Went first to East Africa where he served with 3 Sqdn 31.5.41-30.7.41 on Gladiators. To North Africa and served with 1 Sqdn 7.8.41-17.12.41 KIA (Missing) apparently in combat with I/JG.27. He had previously been damaged in combat on 7.12.41. Name on the Alamein Memorial. Thanks to Tessa Kruger(Nee Hojem) for sending this picture to me.
KIFA
Capt Schalk Willem van der Merwe, Score 1 and a shared confirmed victories, 1 and a shared damaged.
Born in Stellenbosch on 9.3.19. His next-of-kin lived at Alexander Bay, Cape. Began flying in 10.37. He was a BSc student at Stellebosch when he joined the SAAF. Took part in boxing, tennis, swimming and football. He qualified as both a pilot (in 7.39) and an armament officer, serving with the first provisional SA O.T.U. from 12.40. He was a flying instructor at the temporary Mogadiscio Air School by 3.41. He joined 3 Sqdn as pilot and armament officer later in 1941, on Gladiators and, apparently, Mohawks. Served with 1 Sqdn from 11.42. Damaged by a 109 on 12.1.43 but then began scoring. While in
Lt CC “Taffy” Kidson,
Served with 1 Sqdn (initially as a 2/Lt) 23.8.42-7.11.42. Converted to twins and was with 1 ADU by March 1943.
KIA
2/Lt Derek Oswald James,
Son of Thomas and Euphenia James of Kensington, Johannesburg. Served with 1 Sqdn 23.8.42-3.11.42 KIA (Missing) while strafing. Earlier, on 5.9.42, his engine had cut and he crash landed. Age 20. Name on the Alamein Memorial.
KIA
2/Lt Keith Henry O’Reilly,
Son of James and Mary O’Reilly of Claremont, Cape Town. Served with 1 Sqdn only for the period 6.12.41-17.12.41 KIA (Missing) apparently in combat with a Bf.109 of I/JG.27. Age 20. Name on the Alamein Memorial.
Lt Guy Gavin “Pat” Paterson,
Of Johannesburg. Served with 1 Sqdn from 11.42. On 27.11.42 his Spitfire was damaged in combat with Bf.109s and his goggles were shot off! On 13.12.42 his Spitfire was damaged by ground fire. Paterson suffered a Glycol coolant leak during combat on 12.1.43, becoming unconcious from the fumes and crashed SSE of Sirte. He recovered and returned to the Sqdn the same day. He left later in 1.43 on medical grounds and RTU. After the war he had to bale out of a Spitfire at Vredenburg on 21.4.52. Flew with 2 Sqdn during the Korean War.
WIA
Lt Robert Bolton “Bob” Peel,
Of Johannesburg. Served with 1 Sqdn from 10.8.42. In 6.43 he proceeded with the Sqdn to Malta. In 8.43 he was WiA by ground fire. On 10.9.43 RTU at the end of his first tour. Briefly with 1 Sqdn on his return “up North” in 2.44. Served with 2 Sqdn from 28.2.44. On 8.4.44 he was injured when he collided with another aircraft after landing from an “op” sortie. On 19.9.44 RTU at the end of his second tour. Became an air fighting instructor at 11 O.T.U.
KIA
2/Lt Ronald Robert “Scotty” Scott,
Served in 1 Sqdn 14.10.42-13.12.42 KIA in combat with Bf.109s. Buried Marble Arch. Reinterred in Tripoli War Cemetry.
Major PW “Piet”/”The Youth” Venter, 1 damaged EA.
Served with 1 Sqdn 25.6.41-1942, as flight commander from 9.12.41. RTU. 10 Sqdn on home defence 20.4.42-7.4.43. Known as “the Youth.” Returning “up North” he served with 5 Sqdn 17.5.43-9.43 when he was seconded to replace Major Saville (who had just been KIA) as the OC of 260 Sqdn RAF, from 9.43 until injured in a flying accident with a Mustang in 4.44. Once he had recovered he was posted to command 92 Sqdn RAF on 25.8.44 on Spitfire VIIIs. On 1.10.44 he was injured in another flying accident and left the Sqdn on 10.10.44.
KIA
2/Lt Charles Bryant Willson, (note Willson not Wilson). Score: one probable.
Son of Kathleen Willson of Johannesburg. With 5 Sqdn in the Union from 8.41 but posted “up North” to 1 Sqdn on 27.9.41 until KIA 7.12.41 (Missing). Age 23. Buried SW of El Adem (and not Derna as stated by one source) but the grave was later considered lost and his name is now on the Alamein Memorial.
KIA
Capt William Reid “Tommy” Thomson,
Son of William and Reinetta Thomson of Cathcart, CP. Joined the PF and went to the SA Military College with Course 425G. He won his “wings” on 25.4.40. Became a flying instructor (possibly at 62 Air School). He was already a Captain when he joined 1 Sqdn on 14.10.42, without the benefit of an O.T.U. course. On 27.11.42 KIA when shot down in flames near Mersa el Brega, aparently by a 109 pilot of II/JG.27. Age 22. Buried Benghazi War Cemetery.
Lt AOM “Mike” Vialls,
Served with 6 Sqdn on home defence in 1942. Served with 1 Sqdn 14.10.42-3.10.43 RTU. He had nearly shot down a 109 on 14.1.43 but a US 57 Fighter Group P-40F got to it first! Posted to 4 Air School. He rejoined 1 Sqdn in mid-1945 and volunteered to fight in the Far East against the Japanese. He proceeded by sea with the Sqdn & the rest of 7 Wing to Ceylon but by the time they arrived there the war with Japan was over.
Non-flying staff
Connor, Capt DV “Red”. MiD 17.9.43. Engineering Officer.
A pre-war member of the Permanent Force. 1 Sqdn’s EO from 1941 until at least late ’42. The Sqdn had severe serviceability problems in 1941 and again in 1942 yet he conquered these and kept the Sqdn flying under trying conditions. In 1945 he was nominated as the EO of 7 Wing for the war against the Japs but the wing arrived too late to participate. (He deserved more than a mere MiD.)
John Murray, Armaments officer
Hangar, Lt “Steve”
1 Sqdn armament officer late 1942.
Lt (later Capt) JB Robertson,
A cheerful personality, he was serving with 1 Sqdn as assistant adjutant by 2.42. Promoted to Captain, he was posted on 30.7.42 to take over as the Adjutant of 4 Sqdn SAAF.
Tony Bond.
Signals officer.