by Nick Thomas
‘I gather that the crew were safe because they were strapped in, but out of nineteen passengers there were only three saved.’35
The following No. 249 Squadron pilots flew operationally between 8 June–14 October 1942:
Squadron Leader P.B. Lucas, DFC
DSO 11.1.44, Bar to the DSO 28.9.45 CBE 1981
Squadron Leader E.N. Woods, DFC
Flight Lieutenant Eric L. Hetherington, DFC
D air accident 31.10.42
Flight Lieutenant Norman W. Lee
Flight Lieutenant Robert Wendell ‘Buck’ McNair36, DFC
‘B’ Flight’s Commander, DSO 14.4.43
Bar to the DFC 7.10.42, Second Bar 22.10.43
Flight Lieutenant L.W. Watts
DFC 23.6.43
D air accident 29.4.45 while CO of No. 616 Squadron
Flying Officer W. Raoul ‘Daddy Longlegs’ Daddo-Langios
Flying Officer Frank E. ‘Jonesy’ Jones, DFC
Flying Officer D.G. Newman
Flying Officer John Smith
KIA 8.7.42
Pilot Officer Owen William Hugh Berkeley-Hill
KIA 12.7.42
Pilot Officer George Frederick ‘Screwball’ Beurling, DFC, DFM and Bar
DSO 30.10.42
Pilot Officer J.G.W. ‘Johnnie’ Farmer
Pilot Officer K.C.M ‘Giddy’ Giddings
DFC 6.2.43, AFC 8.6.50 and Bar 2.1.56, OBE 5.6.52, KBE 1974
Pilot Officer R.B. Hesselyn, DFM
Pilot Officer Frank E. Jones
Pilot Officer Harry Kelly, RAF (USA)
Pilot Officer Charles Henry Lattimer, RNAF
DFC 1.9.44
Pilot Officer Oscar Mahafft Linton
DFC 14.4.44
Pilot Officer J.L. ‘Smoky Joe’ Lowry, RCAF (USA)
Pilot Officer C.B. ‘Chuck’ or ‘Mac’ MacLean
Pilot Officer J.F. McElroy, RCAF
DFC 30.10.42, and Bar 18.44 (who would also fight for the Israeli Air Force)
Pilot Officer Vincent Kenneth ‘Junior’ Moody, RCAF
DFC 21.1.44, KIA 12.6.45 with No. 131 Squadron
Pilot Officer Joseph Hubert Roger Paradis, RCAF
KIA 22.7.42
Pilot Officer John Donald Rae, RNZAF
DFC 4.12.42
Pilot Officer A.F. Roscoe, RCAF (USA)
DFC 30.10.42
Pilot Officer Reginald Pearson ‘Reg’ Round, RNZAF
KIA 25.8.42
Pilot Officer J.G. ‘Sandy’ Sanderson, RAAF
Pilot Officer R. ‘Bob’ Seed
Pilot Officer B.W. Spradley, RCAF (USA)
Pilot Officer L.A. Verrol
Pilot Officer John W. ‘Willie the Kid’ Williams, DFC
D air accident 31.10.42
Pilot Officer L.W. Watts
Pilot Officer Alan S. ‘Al’ Yates, RAAF
Warrant Officer Basil ‘Micky’ Butler
Warrant Officer II Charles Edward Mutch, RCAF
D air accident 31.10.42
Warrant Officer Charles Benn ‘Chuck’ Ramsey
Flight Sergeant Louis G.C. de l’Ara, DFM
Flight Sergeant N.G. ‘Red’ Bryden, RCAF
Flight Sergeant E.T. Hiskens, RAAF
KIA 15.10.42
Flight Sergeant George Alexander ‘Hoggy’ Hogarth, RCAF
KIA 4.10.42
Flight Sergeant Robert George ‘Bob’ Middlemiss
later wing commander, DFC 19.5.44
Flight Sergeant C.H. Parkinson, RAAF
Flight Sergeant T. Parks
MiD 14.6.44
Flight Sergeant B.C. Peters
Flight Sergeant R.D. Rae, RNZAF
Flight Sergeant M.E. ‘Tommy’ Tomkins
Sergeant C.J. Baxter. RAAF
Sergeant Virgil Paul Brennan, DFM
Sergeant A.E. ‘Ernie’ Budd
Sergeant P. Carter, RCAF
Sergeant E.F. Crosswell
Sergeant C.S. Gerry De Nencrede
Sergeant Murray Irving Gass
KIA 4.10.42
Sergeant John Carlton ‘Gil’ Gilbert
KIA 8.7.42
Sergeant J.C. Gray
Sergeant R.W. Lamont
Sergeant C.E. ‘Rip’ Mutch, RCAF
Sergeant D.F. Ritchie, RCAF
Sergeant W. S. ‘Stan’ or ‘Scarlet’ Shewell, RCAF
Sergeant Allen Bennetto Stead
DFC 27.2.45
Sergeant V.H. ‘Georgia’ Wynn, RCAF (USA)
1. Flight Sergeant (1190047) Murray Irving Gass, RAFVR, was the son of George Irving Gass and Norah Elizabeth Gass, of Butleigh Wootton, Somerset. Gass was 20-years-old and is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 3, Column 1.
2. Flight Sergeant (R/95351) George Alexander Hogarth, RCAF, was the son of Edgar Clare Hogarth and Jean Constance Campbell Hogarth; nephew of Mr. B.B. Hogarth, of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Hogarth was 21-years-old and was buried in Malta (Capuccini) Naval Cemetery, Protestant Section (Men’s), Plot F, Collective Grave 9.
3. The ‘kills’ raised Beurling’s official Malta tally to twenty-one, plus another shared with two other pilots. There is no mention, however, of this sortie in the Squadron’s ORB, nor a record of a Messerschmitt crashing on the island during the day: the Luftwaffe archive also remains silent. There could, however, be any number of reasons for the omissions. The flight began as a non-operational air test, which meant that the details would not necessarily have been recorded in the already sparse Squadron ORB. The enemy fighter may well have crashed into the sea, while not all victories were witnessed from either the air or ground. Meanwhile, the Luftwaffe records have been found wanting on more than one occasion. There seems no reason to doubt the claim simply because the data does not pass modern scrutiny. Beurling’s ‘kills’ were as thoroughly vetted as any other pilot. Several of his victories were consequently only allowed as ‘damaged’ due to the lack of independent witnesses (as was the case in all such uncorroborated claims). The most telling fact is that at the time, this claim was allowed to officially stand as a ‘destroyed’ as opposed to a ‘damaged’. Therefore, there was corroborating evidence to support the victory.
4. De l’Aras’ DFM was promulgated in the London Gazette, 30 October 1943.
‘The Distinguished Flying Medal.
‘740876 Flight Sergeant Louis George Charles DE L’ARA, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, No. 249 Squadron.
‘One day in October 1942, this airman was the pilot of one of a section of aircraft engaged on a sortie over Malta. Within a short time, two large formations of enemy bombers were intercepted. Despite heavy odds, Flight Sergeant L.G.C.de l’Ara so skilfully led his section in attack that they caused the enemy to jettison their bombs into the sea on each occasion. Throughout, this airman displayed brilliant leadership and high courage. He has destroyed five enemy aircraft.’
5. No. 126 Squadron’s Flight Sergeant (422493) David Derek MacLean, RNZAF, was the son of Allan Hector MacLean and Alice Kathleen MacLean, of Wanganui, Wellington, New Zealand. MacLean was 20-years-old and is remembered on the Malta Memorial Panel 5, Column 1.
6. Squadron Leader (40774) Bryan John Wicks, DFC, RAF, was the son of the Revd. Frederick John Wicks, BA, and of Magdalene Wicks, of Totnes, Devon. Wicks was 22-years-old and is remembered on the Malta Memorial Panel 2, Column 1.
7. Sergeant (655947) John Douglas Vinall, RAF, was the son of Douglas Herbert and Una Margery Vinal, of Beckenham, Kent. Vinall was 22-years-old and was buried in Malta (Capuccini) Naval Cemetery, Protestant Section (Men’s), Plot F, Collective Grave 10.
8. Flight Lieutenant W.T.E. Rolls was awarded the DFC, London Gazette, 1 December 1942:
‘Distinguished Flying Cross
‘Acting Flight Lieutenant William Thomas Edward ROLLS, DFM (116492), Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, No. 126 Squadron.’
9. Flight Sergeant I.R. MacLennan was awarded the DFM, London Gazette, 30 October 1942:
‘Distinguished Flying Medal
‘Can/R.70978 Fli
ght Sergeant Ian Roy MacLENNAN, Royal Canadian Air Force.
‘One day in October 1942, this airman destroyed two of a force of thirty Junkers 88s which attempted to attack Malta. The next day, he destroyed a Messerschmitt 109. Flight Sergeant MacLennan has displayed great courage and tenacity. He has destroyed four and damaged several more enemy aircraft.’
10. Sergeant J.D. Rae was later commissioned and awarded the DFC, London Gazette, 1 December 1942:
‘Distinguished Flying Cross
‘Pilot Officer John Donald RAE (N.Z.402896), Royal New Zealand Air Force, No. 249 Squadron.’
11. Squadron Leader A.D.J. Lovell, DFC was later awarded the DSO and Bar, February 1945 and the DFC (US). His award of the DSO was announced in the London Gazette, 30 October 1942:
‘Distinguished Service Order
‘Squadron Leader Anthony Desmond Joseph LOVELL, DFC (40402).
‘This officer is an outstanding Squadron commander who has played a considerable part in the defence of Malta. One day in October 1942, he led his Squadron in an attack against six Junkers 88s escorted by a number of fighters. In the combat, Squadron Leader A.D.J. Lovell shot down a Junkers 88, bringing his total victories to nine. On many occasions, his skilful leadership has enabled his Squadron to intercept enemy air formations bent on attacking Malta. This officer’s gallantry and determination have set an example worthy of the highest praise.’
12. Flight Sergeant (1375024) Ronald Alfred Stevenson, RAFVR, was the husband of Doris Stevenson, of Ilford, Essex. Stevenson was 26-years-old and is remembered on the Alamein Memorial, Column 250.
13. Pilot Officer W.C. Walton was awarded the DFC, London Gazette, 4 December 1942:
‘Distinguished Flying Cross
‘Pilot Officer William Coltart WALTON (119499), Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve.’
14. Pilot Officer R. Seed was awarded the DFC London Gazette, 29 January 1943
15. Wing Commander P.P. Hanks, DFC, Wing Commander (Flying) Luqa was awarded the DSO, London Gazette, 30 October 1942:
‘Acting Wing Commander Peter Prosser HANKS, DFC (37351).
‘One day in October 1942, this officer led his Squadron in an engagement against a force of seven enemy bombers, escorted by twenty-five fighters, which attempted to attack Malta. The enemy were intercepted before reaching the island and, in a head-on attack, three of their aircraft were destroyed; one of them, a Junkers 88, was shot down by Wing Commander Hanks. This officer is a fearless fighter whose example and leadership have instilled great confidence in his fellow pilots.
Whilst flying from Malta, Wing Commander P.P. Hanks has destroyed four enemy aircraft.’
16. No. 185 Squadron’s Flight Sergeant (R/92540) Alexander MacLeod, RCAF, was the son of Alexander and Alexandra Harper MacLeod, of Cobbie Hill, Vancouver Island, British Columbia. He is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 5, Column 2.
17. Flying Officer R.I.A. Smith was awarded the DFC, London Gazette, 4 December:
‘Distinguished Flying Cross
‘Acting Flight Lieutenant Roderick Illingsworth Alpine SMITH (Can./J.4561), Royal Canadian Air Force, No. 126 Squadron.’
18. Warrant Officer (404677) Edwin Tytler Hiskens, RAAF, was killed-in-action on 15 October 1942. Hiskens was 21-years-old, and was the son of Edwin Alfred and Cecillia Agnes Hiskens, of Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia. He is remembered on the Malta Memorial, Panel 5, Column 1. Official news of Hiskens’ promotion had not reached the island before he died.
19. Flying Officer J.F. McElroy was awarded the DFC, London Gazette, 30 October 1942:
‘Flying Officer John Frederick McELROY (Can/J.7230), Royal Canadian Air Force, No. 249 Squadron.
‘During recent air fighting over Malta, this officer has displayed great courage and outstanding determination to destroy the enemy. On 12th October 1942, during an interception, he destroyed a Messerschmitt 109 and then pursued a Junkers 88. Six enemy fighters were in close proximity, and Flying Officer McElroy turned towards them and destroyed one before they broke off the fight. Three days later, his section attacked a formation of Junkers 88s and Flying Officer McElroy probably destroyed one of them. On another occasion, when one of his comrades was shot down into the sea, Flying Officer McElroy guided a rescue launch to the spot in spite of the presence of enemy fighters. This officer, who has completed many reconnaissances and destroyed five enemy aircraft, has displayed inspiring leadership.’
Flight Lieutenant McElroy was later awarded a Bar to the DFC, London Gazette, 1 August 1944.
‘Flight Lieutenant John Frederick MCELROY, DFC (Can/J 7230), RAF, No. 421 (RCAF) Squadron.
‘This officer continues to display the finest qualities of courage and determination in air operations.
‘In June, 1944, he flew the leading aircraft of a formation which engaged a force of more than thirty enemy fighters, nine of which were shot down Although his aircraft sustained severe damage, Flight Lieutenant McElroy made a safe landing at an airfield. In this engagement he displayed leadership of a high order.’
20. This action marked the end of Wing Commander A.H. Donaldson’s combat on Malta. Donaldson was awarded the DSO, London Gazette, 30 October 1942:
‘Distinguished Service Order
‘Wing Commander Arthur Hay DONALDSON, DFC, AFC, RAF.
‘During the recent battle, Wing Commander Donaldson has shown the greatest determination in engaging enemy bombers, on one occasion leading three aircraft in a head-on attack on eight enemy bombers, quite regardless of their heavy fighter escort. Another time he led his wing when it smashed up a formation of eight Ju 88s and thirty to forty fighters many miles from the coast of Malta. Four bombers and four fighters were destroyed, and many more damaged. The next day he went alone straight through the enemy fighter screen and attacked the bombers, and was responsible for the fact that no bombs fell on their target. He was twice shot up and exhibited the greatest skill in regaining base. On the second occasion he lost two fingers on his left hand and had foot injuries, yet by unexampled determination, he brought his aircraft home.
‘A large portion of the success achieved in breaking up and destroying enemy formations has been due to the magnificent offensive spirit displayed by this officer, and to his outstanding and inspiring leadership. His courage and desire to fight are an example to all.’
3rd November 1942
Further details of the award of the Distinguished Service Order read:
Wing Commander Arthur Hay DONALDSON, DFC, AFC (34150).
‘During the period 11th to 14th October, 1942, this officer participated in engagements against enemy aircraft attempting to attack Malta. Brilliantly leading his formation in attacks on bombers, regardless of the fighters which escorted them, Wing Commander Donaldson played a large part in the success achieved. Attacks on the islands were frustrated, and several enemy bombers and fighters were shot down. On the I4th October he received wounds in the feet and head, and two of his fingers were shot away. Despite this, he flew to base and skilfully landed his aircraft.
Wing Commander Donaldson displayed leadership, courage and fighting qualities in keeping with the highest traditions of the Royal Air Force. He destroyed three enemy aircraft, bringing his victories to five.’
Donaldson was awarded a Bar to the DFC, London Gazette, 4 December 1942:
‘Bar to the Distinguished Flying Cross
‘Wing Commander Arthur Hay DONALDSON, DSO, DFC, AFC (34150).’
21. Squadon Leader E.N. Woods, DFC, was awarded a Bar to the DFC, London Gazette, 30 October 1942:
‘Bar to the Distinguished Flying Cross
‘Acting Squadron Leader Eric Norman WOODS, DFC (60119), Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, No. 249 Squadron.
‘In the recent heavy air fighting over Malta, this officer has led his Squadron against enemy formations with great success. Between I2th and I7th October, 1942, twenty-seven aircraft were destroyed by the Squadron, and much of this success can be attributed to Squadron Leader Woods’s outstanding leade
rship. In one engagement, on the 1st October, he shot down two enemy aircraft, bringing his victories to six. His example of courage and devotion to duty has inspired his fellow pilots.’
22. Flight Lieutenant H.W. McLeod was awarded the DFC, London Gazette, 9 October 1942:
‘Acting Flight Lieutenant Henry Wallace McLEOD (Can/J.4912), Royal Canadian Air Force.
‘In September 1942, this officer participated in an engagement against at least twenty Messerschmitt 109s. Despite the odds, Flight Lieutenant McLeod so skilfully led his section during the combat that the enemy force was completely broken up. This officer has always displayed the greatest determination to engage the enemy, and has destroyed at least five and damaged a number of other hostile aircraft. His leadership has been most inspiring.’
