|
|
|
Index of R.A.F and Commonwealth Airmen 1915 - 1979
The development of flying for military purposes in Britain originated with enthusiastic officers of the Royal Artillery and Royal Engineers pursuing the art of ballooning. An Army Balloon Equipment Store was established in 1878, with a factory and training facilities in 1882. Balloons were used on active service in the Sudan Campaign of 1885, and more especially during the Boer War. The early 1900’s saw the progress towards airships and man-carrying kites. A advocate for powered flight was an American ‘Colonel’ Samuel Franklin Cody and he is credited with flying the first manned, heavier-than-air machine in England on the 16th October 1908. He was killed five years later in an air crash. However, his enthusiasm caused enough people to see the military potential that manned aircraft could bring.
Several companies sprang up with never to be forgotten names, Short Brothers, Sopwith, Blackburn, Rolls-Royce, de Havilland, Handley Page, Armstrong Whitworth, A.V. Roe, so that new developments were fuelled by competition. By 1911 the British Government needed to act so as to take advantage of the situation. On 13th April 1912, the Royal Flying Corps was warranted by King George V. It included a Naval Wing and Army Wing, but the two did not work in harmony, and a month prior to the outbreak of World War I, the Naval Wing became a separate organisation, called the Royal Naval Air Service.
During the war the civilian population in London suffered the first air raids by Zeppelin airships and aircraft, and by 1917 the politicians were of the view that a single Air Ministry was needed to cope with air defence and offence. So the Royal Flying Corps and the Royal Naval Air Service were amalgamated to form the Royal Air Force on 1st April 1918.
ROYAL AIR FORCE RECRUITMENT POSTERS CIRCA 1918 The history of flying on Malta starts with a decision made by the British Admiralty in late 1915 during World War I to construct a seaplane base at Kalafrana. Work was completed by the end of July 1916 and five flying boats arrived from Felixstowe with qualified personnel to establish the base, under the command of Flight Commander J.D. Maude. With the formation of the Royal Air Force on 1st April 1918, Kalafrana became a Royal Air Force base. During the 1920’s the base was expanded.
The first Royal Air Force planes to operate from land in Malta used a temporary airstrip on the Marsa racecourse in September 1918.
On 16th January 1923, Governor Plumer officially opened Hal Far airfield as a Fleet Air Arm base, working in conjunction with Kalafrana. It became a permanent Royal Air Force Station on 29th March 1929, and the first Commanding Officer was Wing Commander C.W. Nutting.
Prior to World War II Ta Kali was a civil airport used by Italian airlines. After the outbreak of hostilities by Italy in June 1940 the Royal Air Force took over the facilities and after some changes to the buildings it officially became RAF Ta Kali on 8th November, with two civilians, Mr. Ryan and Mr.Tomkins as Air Traffic Controllers.
Construction of an airfield at Qrendi for fighter aircraft was begun in 1940 and after considerable delays, mainly due to enemy action, was officially opened on 10th November 1942.
An airfield a Xewkija on Gozo had a short life. It was needed during World War II and constructed during 1943. The first unit based there was the United States of America Air Force, 307, 308 and 309 Squadrons under Colonel Fred M. Dean. However, after the invasion of Sicily and subsequent successes by the Allied Forces, it was no longer needed and the land was handed back to its original owners by June 1944.
Both Ta Kali and Hal Far airfields suffered from water logged surfaces in some months of the year, so a new airfield with concrete runways was designed and work commenced in October 1938. Located on the outskirts of Luqa, and it became Royal Air Force Station Luqa on 1st April 1940.
After World War II, Luqa became the civil airport for Malta, and Air Malta as the national carrier was set up in 1973, with flights starting in 1974. With a growing number of tourists visiting the island the old ex-RAF buildings proved inadequate, and a totally new International Airport was built and became operational in 1992.
Next time you are flying out of Luqa Airport, after Check In before going through Security Control, take the stairs or lift down one floor, where you will find the Airport Chapel of Our Lady of the Airways, for a few moments of peaceful reflection. During 2008 this part of the airport building was rebuilt and modernised including the chapel, which was blessed by H.G. Mgr. Mario Grech, the Bishop of Gozo, on 11th December 2008. On the rear wall can be seen the two flags flown on board Air Malta aircraft 9H-ABF on the flight which carried His Holiness Pope John Paul II from Malta to Rome on 27th May 1990 after his first historic visit to the island.
Included in this file are men and women of the Royal Flying Corps, the Royal Naval Air Service, the Royal Air Force and Commonwealth Air Forces, and the Fleet Air Arm Francisco ABDILLA, F54281, born September 1875. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 5th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Carmelo ABELA, F54312, born August 1888. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 21st March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Filippo ABELA, F54351, born 22nd November 1873, fitter. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 23rd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Francisco ABELA, F54332, born October 1893, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 22nd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Lorenzo ABELA, F54278, born 11th January 1880. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 5th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Carmelo AGIUS, F54394, born July 1889, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Giovanni AGIUS, F54314, born January 1878, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 21st March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Flying Officer F.R. AINSLEY, pilot of a Maryland aircraft from 69 Squadron sent to reconnoitre off Cape Matapan 29th March 1941. It crashed into the sea near the island of Zante. He died in the crash, but his Navigator Sergeant G. Brown and W.Op/Air Gunner Sergeant A.E.White, survived and were taken by the Greeks to Athens. From there they travelled through Southern Greece to Crete then Alexandria and finally back to Malta arriving in May
Miss Gladys AITKEN, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Flight Lieutenant Robert Stanley AITKEN, aged 29 years, bachelor, RAF, the son of Robert Aitken, married 6th April 1925 to, Jeanie Allison TWEEDIE, aged 26 years, spinster, the daughter of David Jackson Tweedie, Minister, Church of Scotland
Robert AITKEN, born 13th March 1926, the son of Jeannie Allison and Flight Lieutenant Robert Stanley Aitken, Royal Air Force
Sergeant J.R.R. ALDERSON, a Hurricane pilot, with 185 Squadron at Hal Far, early July 1941
Lieutenant L.F.E. ALDRIDGE, a Swordfish pilot, returned to Hal Far after attacking enemy shipping and crash-landed, but the torpedo was still in place. An explosion followed and he was killed whilst the Telegraphist/Air Gunner A.K. Pimlott died from his injuries later that day, 21st August 1941
Pilot Officer Peter B. ALEXANDER, pilot at Hal Far airfield, March 1940
Sergeant J.M. ALEXANDER, an Observer, 69 Squadron. His Martin Maryland aircraft left Luqa on a reconnaissance flight to Taomina, but was attacked by enemy aircraft, 7th May 1941. The other two men on board were Wireless Operator/Air Gunner Sergeant Jack Levy, who was killed inside the plane by the enemy fire, and the pilot Flying Officer John Boys-Stones. Sergeant Alexander managed to bale out, but descending by parachute he was shot at from the ground by some soldiers. Luckily they missed him and he survived. By the time the pilot tried to bale out from the blazing aircraft it was too low, his parachute didn’t open correctly, and he died shortly afterwards from his wounds. He was in the crew of a Maryland with 69 Squadron, took off for a leaflet dropping sortie over several Tunisian towns on 13th August 1941. His aircraft was badly damaged and the crew baled out. The pilot, Sergeant D.L.J. Lawrence, parachute failed to open and he was killed. Sergeant Alexander and Air Gunner Sergeant F. Wilkins were rescued from the sea and taken prisoner
Pilot Officer Philip McLauchlin ALLARDICE, a Hurricane pilot, with 185 Squadron at Hal Far, early July 1941. Died 22nd March 1942. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
B.F.J. ALLBERRY, Sergeant, 592449, Royal Air Force, aged 22 years, from Weymouth. On Saturday, 18th February 1956, a four engined Avro York aircraft, G-ANSY, belonging to Scottish Airlines crashed near Zurrieq. It had been chartered by the Royal Air Force and was being used to carry troops from Suez in Egypt, to the U.K., with a stopover in Malta. As the plane took off, the air traffic controllers at Luqa airport saw smoke coming from one of the engines, and informed the pilot, Captain Frank Coker, immediately. The plane appeared to climb to around 1,000 feet before going into a dive and crashing into the ground. As it was loaded with around 2,000 gallons of high-octane aviation fuel, the plane exploded on impact and was engulfed by flames. The men on board numbered a crew of five, with 45 passengers, all RAF personnel except one Army Private. When the rescue services arrived at the scene it was clear that there were no survivors. The bodies of the co-pilot, navigator, radio officer and an air hostess were taken to the U.K. for burial.
Leading Aircraftsman C.N. ALLEN, crew member of Royal Air Force flying boat K.3595 which crashed on a hillside near Messina Sicily, killing all on board, 15th February 1935. The plane was flying from Naples to the RAF Base at Calafrana, en route to Singapore
David Ross ALLEN, Pilot Officer, 42783, a pilot with Special Flight 451. About half an hour before midnight on the 3rd November 1940 a Flight of Wellington bombers prepared to take off from Luqa airfield each carrying a full load of bombs on a mission to attack the city of Naples.
The first aircraft became airborne and headed for Italy, the second Wellington (T2743) piloted by Sergeant Raymond Lewin failed to get higher than about 500 feet when it started to go down, and crashed in open ground near Tal Handaq, and burst into flames. Realizing that the aircraft had full petrol tanks and a number of bombs, Lewin told his crew to get out of the area as quickly as possible.
He was injured with a smashed kneecap, and wounds to his legs and face, but went to the aid of Pilot Officer David Allen who was lying badly injured beneath one of the wings of the burning aircraft. He managed to pull his injured colleague into a hole about forty yards from the blaze and lay on top of him just as the bombs exploded.
For his bravery he was awarded the George Cross, but sadly Pilot Officer Allen died from his wounds. Three other members of the crew survived this horrendous event, Leading Aircraftsman John Hollingworth, Sergeant Archibald Hunter and Sergeant Thomas Reay, and
About half an hour later, the fourth Wellington in this Flight crashed onto houses in Qormi
Technician David William ALLEN, aged 25 years, bachelor, the son of William Thomas Albert Allen, married 12th December 1971 to, Linda Carol BAILEY, aged 21 years, spinster, Leading Aircraftswoman, Women’s Royal Air Force, the daughter of Douglas Archibald Bailey, at St. Christopher’s Station Church, Luqa Aerodrome. The ceremony was performed by the Reverend Hartley Roger Watson, RAF Chaplain
Pilot Officer George ALLEN, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 605 Squadron
Wing Commander J.E. ALLEN, Station Commander at Hal Far airfield from 8th November 1940 until 16th May 1941
Sergeant R. ALLEN, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield July 1941
Flying Officer V. ALLPORT, a New Zealander, Blenheim pilot with 18 Squadron. On 28th November 1941 he was one of six Blenheims to attack shipping in Navarino Bay, off the Greek coast. With heavy rain causing bad visibility, and a barrage of gunfire from shore batteries and escorting destroyers they nevertheless hit the tanker Volturno
Flight Lieutenant Walter ALLSOPP, from Australia, a Beaufort pilot with 39 Squadron in August 1942
K.G. ALLWRIGHT, Leading Airman, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Flight Sergeant Charles ALPE, pilot with 126 Squadron. On 25th January 1942, about 22 Hurricanes had taken off to escort two merchant ships, when they were attacked by German fighter planes and a major dog fight ensued. His aircraft was badly shot up on 25th January 1942, but he managed a belly landing at Ta Kali
Corporal John ALTON, ground staff at Ta Kali in June 1941
Lieutenant ANDERSON, died 22nd October 1922, when his Aero Bison aircraft crashed into the sea, about five miles off Malta, killing all the crew
Pilot Officer A.G.S. ANDERSON, Hurricane pilot, arrived first week of June 1941
Pilot Officer Albert ANDERSON, Hurricane pilot, shot down on 25th January 1942. He managed to bale out, and the pilot-less aircraft crashed near Qrendi
Flight Lieutenant S.E. ANDREWS DFM, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 242 Squadron
John Frederick ANGUS, born 19th February 1929, the son of Gertrude Maud and Leading Aircraftsman John Singleton Angus, RAF Base Calafrana
Aircraftsman John Singleton ANGUS, aged 41 years, bachelor, RAF base Calafrana, the son of Frederick Angus, married 1st May 1928 to, Gertrude Maud WESTBROOK, aged 32 years, spinster, of 49 Hillbrook Road, Tooting, London, the daughter of Richard John Westbrook
Pilot Officer E.W. APPLEBEE DFM, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield July 1941. Whilst attacking a chemical factory at Crotone, Italy, on 11th August 1941 his aircraft was shot down, and he was taken a Prisoner-of-War. After the capitulation of Italy he was moved to Germany. The other two crew members also survived, Pilot Squadron Leader George Goode, and Observer Sergeant Nicholls
Major Lord Allen Algernon Bathurst APSLEY DSO MC TD, died 17th December 1942. A Handley Page Halifax four-engined aircraft belonging to No. 138 Squadron, arrived at Malta from the Middle East, en route to England via Gibraltar. The six man crew were all Polish serving in the Royal Air Force, Flying Officer Krzysztof L. DUBROMIRSKI, Flying Officer Zbigniew IDZIKOWSKI, Flying Officer Stanislaw PANKIEWICZ, Sergeant Alfred E. KLENIEWSKI, Sergeant Roman WYSOCKI, and Flight Sergeant Oskar F. ZIELINSKI. Besides Lord Apsley as passengers, there was another Army Officer, Major Arthur David Curtis MILLAR, Indian Army, three RAF Officers from 138 Squadron, Squadron Leader Jefferson Heywood WEDGWOOD DFC, Flight Lieutenant Peter EARLE, Flight Lieutenant Leonard Arthur VAUGHAN DSO DFC, and six RAF airmen from 138 Squadron, Sergeant Dennis SPIBEY, Sergeant Alexander Clubb WATT, Corporal Douglas Sidney HOUNSLOW, LAC Cyril Dennis BROWNE, LAC Richard CLEGG and AC1 Stanley Edward KELLY. After the plane had been re-fuelled it took off in the dark at around 4.a.m. and shortly after it was airborne and had passed over Zeitun a loud explosion was heard and it crashed onto fields and caught fire. The six-man crew and all the passengers were killed
Carmelo AQUILINA, F54287, born October 1878. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 5th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Sergeant Thomas ARMSTRONG, a Beaufighter Navigator with 252 Squadron, arrived Malta 22nd July 1941. On the 28th whilst attacking the airfield at Catania he was wounded, and on landing in Malta was into hospital where he contracted fever. He left in December for Egypt
Corporal George ARNOLD, RAF Fighter Control Room, Lascaris Bastion, in 1942
Flight Lieutenant J.B. ARTHUR, RAF, pilot, died 3rd/4th September 1948. Soon after midnight Friday/Saturday, 3rd/4th September 1948, while exercising with units of the British and United States fleets, a Royal Air Force Lancaster TX263Q, of 38 Squadron based at Luqa RAF Station, went missing. An extensive search was undertaken by the Royal Navy, in company with the United States carrier USS Kearsarge and seven United States destroyers, plus an Italian corvette. American and Italian aircraft also participated in the search. Lieutenant Commander Pridham Wippel R.N., piloting a Seafire from HMS Triumph, sighted wreckage on a hilltop on Monte Cristo island, 25 miles south of Elba. The aircraft carrier put a landing party ashore after the location of the wreckage had been confirmed, but found that there were no survivors. The bodies of the seven man crew were recovered, and buried at sea from the aircraft carrier HMS Triumph on the Sunday afternoon, 5th, with full military honours
RAF over Senglea Wing Commander Ian C. ARTHUR, Royal Canadian Air Force, Commanding 232 Spitfire Squadron at Ta Kali airfield in June 1943. Remained in the Air Force until 1954
Lewis Frederick ASBURY, aged 23 years, bachelor, Airman, Royal Air Force, The Sergeants Mess, Hal Far RAF Station, the son of Noel Percy Asbury, married 17th February 1938, to Ivy CRACKNELL, aged 19 years, spinster, the daughter of George Richard Cracknell
Sergeant D.J. ASHCROFT, Observer, Beaufighters, failed to return from a mission over Tripoli, 8th December 1941
Mrs Jane ASHMAN, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Sergeant Dennis Kenneth ASHTON, Hurricane pilot, flew his plane off the deck of HMS Argus on 2nd August 1940, and landed at Luqa to increase the number of aircraft to defend the island. With 261 Squadron, he died 26th November 1940, the day after he learnt that his wife had given birth
Francesco ATTARD, F54389, born September 1881, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Guiseppe ATTARD, F54414, born October 1883, painter. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Guiseppe ATTARD, F54329, born October 1870, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 22nd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Pietro ATTARD, F54336, born May 1891, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 22nd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Vittorio ATTARD, F54574, born 20th June 1889, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 22nd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Vittorio ATTARD, F54568, born on Gozo April 1897, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 22nd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Flying Officer Henry Ferdinand AUGER, 41815, from Canada. Hurricane pilot flew off HMS Ark Royal 3rd April 1941 to increase the number of aircraft on Malta. Piloting a Hurricane of 261 Squadron, crashed into the sea between Filfla and Malta, 23rd April 1941. He was seen in the water by another aircraft, but no rescue launch was sent, and he drowned. Remembered on the Royal Air Force Memorial in Floriana
Sergeant Henry W. AYRE, Hurricane pilot, flew his plane off the deck of HMS Argus on 2nd August 1940, and landed at Luqa to increase the number of aircraft to defend the island. He left Malta 7th April 1941 for Egypt
Salvatore AZZOPARDI, F54381, born December 1879, tinsmith. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Salvatore AZZOPARDI, F54349, born June 1893, painter. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 23rd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
1st Lieutenant BABCOCK, 308 Fighter Squadron, United States Air Force, based at Xewkija Airfield, Gozo, killed 6th July 1943 in action over Sicily
Pilot Officer Graham George BAILEY, a Hurricane pilot, took off from the deck of HMS Ark Royal on 27th April 1941, to bring additional aircraft to Malta. On 12th May 1941, he was a member of 185 Squadron which was formed at Hal Far. On 9th November 1941 whilst covering a Royal Navy convoy was attacked by Italian fighters and shot down. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Sub-Lieutenant R.A. BAILEY, Fleet Air Arm, Swordfish Observer, on HMS Illustrious and in the first wave of attackers on the Italian Fleet anchored in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940
Corporal S.T. BAILEY, crew member of Royal Air Force flying boat K.3595 which crashed on a hillside near Messina Sicily, killing all on board, 15th February 1935. The plane was flying from Naples to the RAF Base at Calafrana, en route to Singapore
Flight Lieutenant M.J. BAIRD-SMITH, Wellington bomber pilot arrived at Luqa early November 1940
Pilot Officer BAIRNSFATHER, Spitfire pilot with 603 Squadron. Whilst in combat on with German ME 109’s on 11th May 1942, he collided with another Spitfire being piloted by Flight Lieutenant Bill Douglas, and though both planes crashed, both pilots managed to bale out and on landing were taken to hospital suffering from shock
Pilot Officer C.H. BAKER, Hurricane pilot, arrived first week of June 1941
Flight Officer E.M. BAKER arrived in March 1954 to assume the duties of Women’s Royal Air Force administrative officer at Air HQ and officer in charge of R.A.F.V.R. (Malta). She joined the W.A.A.F., and prior to coming to Malta was based at R.A.F. Station, Melksham, Wiltshire
Flight Lieutenant D.W. BALDEN, Hurricane pilot, flew his plane off the deck of HMS Argus on 2nd August 1940, and landed at Luqa to increase the number of aircraft to defend the island. In command of 261 Squadron August till December 1940, when he was posted to H.Q. Luqa with the rank of Squadron Leader (Admin). Retired from the Royal Air Force 1966
Aircraftsman Harold James BALDWIN, aged 32 years, bachelor, RAF base Calafrana, the son of John James Forte Baldwin deceased, married 9th June 1934 to, Eva Gladys Porch LARTER, aged 31 years, spinster, the daughter of Frederick Larter deceased
Flight Lieutenant Leslie Arthur BALE, 82166, Royal Air Force (V.R.). A Beaufighter pilot with 272 Squadron he was taking part in a raid on El Aouina in Tunisia when his aircraft was shot down and he was killed, 14th November 1942. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Flight Sergeant Stanley H. BALKWILL DFM, from Canada, a Beaufort pilot with 39 Squadron in February 1943
Flight Lieutenant Allan BALLANDS, Blenheim Pilot, joined 105 Squadron from 107 Squadron, in August 1941
Pilot Officer T. BALMFORTH, Hurricane pilot, August 1940. Early 1941 was posted back to England due to ill health
Giuseppe BALZAN, F54356, born February 1894, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 23rd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Sergeant C.S. BAMBERGER, Hurricane pilot, with 261 Squadron, arrived end November 1940. On 12th May 1941, he was a member of 185 Squadron that was formed at Hal Far. He left the island for Gibraltar on 12th June 1941 having flown over 100 sorties during his stay on Malta. Retired from the Royal Air Force in 1959
Flight Lieutenant F.S. BANNER, pilot, in July 1943 with 243 Squadron at Hal Far airfield
Saverio BARBARA, F54334, born March 1896, baker. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 22nd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Flying Officer R.H. BARBER, Hurricane pilot at Hal Far airfield in July 1940. On 14th April 1941 left 261 Squadron as he was posted to A.H.Q. He was the last of the original Squadron pilots to leave having flown more than 90 sorties during his ten months with 261. He later joined 69 Squadron and flew reconnaissance flights
Jessica BARBER, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in 1942
Leading Aircraftsman A.M. BARBOUR, 4014297, aged 33 years, from Glasgow, died in an air crash 18th February 1956, see ALLBERRY for details.
M.W. BARBOUR, Sub-Lieutenant (A), RNVR, Fleet Air Arm, HMS St.Angelo, the Naval Shore Base, died 30th March 1943
Thomas BARKAS, 947276, Corporal. The Malta aerodrome where he was stationed was under attack by about 50 enemy bombers one evening in March 1942. Due to the large number of bombs dropped a number of fires were started. In particular a petrol bowser, an aircraft and an ammunition lorry which were close together were on fire. Despite the heavy bombing which was continuing Corporal Barkas together with Flight Sergeant Stammwitz immediately went to the scene. They managed to quench the flames using up all the available fire extinguishers. Corporal Barkas then moved with other members of the fire party to a site where a large number of incendiary bombs were burning and managed to extinguish many of them. His courage was rewarded by the British Empire Medal in June 1942
Albert Edward BARKER, aged 23 years, bachelor, Leading Air Mechanic, HMS Falcon, Hal Far, the son of Albert Edward Barker, married 28th September 1957 to, Gwendoline Ada ARNOLD, aged 23 years, spinster, WRNS, HMS Falcon, Hal Far, the daughter of Robert Henry Arnold. This Marriage took place at St.Michael's Church, Kalafrana
Kitty Maude BARLING, born 8th March 1929, the daughter of Alice Maude and Flight Lieutenant Philip Delamark Barling, RAF base Calafrana. Baptised at St.Michaels Church, Calafrana by the Reverend R.N.S.Shapley, RAF Chaplain
Sergeant BARLOW, from Canada. On board a Wellington of the Overseas Air Delivery Unit, which was shot down in flames about 90 miles from Kalafrana, on 15th November 1941. The aircraft ditched successfully and all on board transferred to a dinghy and were later picked up by Royal Air Force Search and Rescue launch HSL128
Flying Officer Leslie George BARLOW, 80276, Royal Air Force (V.R.), Spitfire pilot with 603 Squadron, from Rhodesia. Shot down by German ME 109 fighters and died 8th June 1942. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
John Blair BARNARD, Royal Air Force, Germany, the son of Tom Holmes and Winifred Gladys Barnard, nee Blair, married 15th November 1959 to Vivien Mary VELLA, of Sliema, the daughter of Carmel and Agnes Vella, nee Brincat
Squadron Leader BARNES, Blenheim Pilot with 107 Squadron in August 1941, too over as Commanding Officer in October
D.J.N. BARNES, Sub-Lieutenant (A), RNVR, Fleet Air Arm, HMS St.Angelo, the Naval Shore Base, died 22nd May 1942
F.A. BARNES, Petty Officer Airman, Fleet Air Arm, died 25th July 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Ark Royal
Pilot Officer L.D. BARNES, Hurricane pilot, arrived first week of June 1941
W.L. LeC. BARNES DSC, Lieutenant (A), Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Flight Sergeant L.M. BARNETT, 565063, Observer with 105 Blenheim Squadron at Luqa airfield. On 22nd September 1941 he was with five other Blenheims attacking German Barracks on the North African Coast when in a tight turn his plane flew too close beneath another Blenheim which resulted in the propellers of the upper plane scything through the fuselage of his aircraft, which crashed killing all the crew. The other aircraft piloted by Sergeant Williams also sustained considerable damage and had to be nursed on a nerve-racking 218 mile flight back to Luqa. The other two crew members, the pilot Wing Commander Scivier, and Sergeant Gray, the Wireless Op./Air Gunner also lost their lives
Flight Lieutenant Dennis BARNHAM, with 601 Squadron in May 1942
Pilot Officer David Usher BARNWELL DFC, 61052, Hurricane pilot, with 185 Squadron at Hal Far, early July 1941. A member of the Malta Night Fighter Unit when it was formed at Ta Kali in July 1941. Shot down and crashed into the sea, 14th October 1941. His voice was heard by Fighter Control saying that he was baling out over the sea, then silence. His body was never found. He was 19 years old, the last of three sons in the Royal Air Force, of Captain Frank Barnwell, Chief Designer of the Bristol Aircraft Company, responsible for the Blenheim and Beaufort aircraft. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Squadron Leader R.A. BARTON DFC, from Canada, a Hurricane pilot with 249 Squadron, arrived on Malta 21st May 1941. Ex-Battle of Britain pilot. Left 249 Squadron first week of December 1941 for H.Q. Middle East
Leading Aircraftsman R.J. BARTON DFM, Air Gunner in a Sunderland flying boat. On 1st November 1940 left Kalafrana to search for the crew of a missing Wellington, but was attacked by Italian fighters and the aircraft was badly damaged. He was wounded in the leg but continued in his post and carried on firing. He was awarded the DFM. The aircraft managed to return to Kalafrana
Leslie BASTABLE, 560326 Flight Sergeant. He served as the senior Flight N.C.O. for a considerable time at his Malta aerodrome, and was responsible for the refuelling and despatch of aircraft, as well as for their inspection and dispersal when they returned. This work often had to be undertaken during heavy and prolonged enemy air attacks, he refused to take cover especially when our own aircraft were coming in to land. For his example of leadership he was awarded the British Empire Medal in June 1942
Sergeant F. BASTARD DFM, Navigator, arrived in Malta 6th September 1940 to form 431 Flight, crew member for Maryland reconnaissance aircraft. On 2nd November 1940 whilst on a mission to photograph Taranto Harbour, a bullet smashed through the nose of the aircraft damaging the instrument panel and striking the pilot Flying Officer Warburton in the chest knocked him unconscious. The plane went into a steep dive, but Sergeant Bastard managed to move the limp figure of the pilot and take over the control of the plane until Warburton recovered consciousness and was able to fly the plane back to Malta. For his actions he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal
RAF over Grand Harbour 1932 Flying Officer M.R.P. BARTHORPE, RAF, Navigator, died 3rd/4th September 1948. Soon after midnight Friday/Saturday, 3rd/4th September 1948, while exercising with units of the British and United States fleets, a Royal Air Force Lancaster TX263Q, of 38 Squadron based at Luqa RAF Station, went missing. An extensive search was undertaken by the Royal Navy, in company with the United States carrier USS Kearsarge and seven United States destroyers, plus an Italian corvette. American and Italian aircraft also participated in the search. Lieutenant Commander Pridham Wippel R.N., piloting a Seafire from HMS Triumph, sighted wreckage on a hilltop on Monte Cristo island, 25 miles south of Elba. The aircraft carrier put a landing party ashore after the location of the wreckage had been confirmed, but found that there were no survivors. The bodies of the seven man crew were recovered, and buried at sea from the aircraft carrier HMS Triumph on the Sunday afternoon, 5th, with full military honour
Sergeant S.G. BASTIN, 909151, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield July 1941. On 26th August 1941 having completed their requisite number of sorties, Sergeant Bastin was ready to return to England. However he and his crew were called upon to photograph and attack shipping off Tunisia. They successfully attacked the target but the aircraft was flying low and hit one of the masts and exploded, damaging the superstructure and disintegrating. Along with Sergeant Bastin, the Observer Sergeant Healy and Pilot Flight Sergeant Scott were killed
Harold Bernard BATCHELOR, aged 23 years, bachelor, Sergeant Observer, Royal Air Force, the son of Herbert Batchelor, married 2nd May 1941, to Anastasia ZACHARIA, aged 24 years, spinster, the daughter of George Zacharia
Group Captain A.W. BATES, became Station Commander at Hal Far airfield, October 1944
Sergeant T.H. BATES, a Hurricane pilot with 185 Squadron at Hal Far, early July 1941
Group Captain P. BATHURST, took over the administration of 1151 Marine Craft Unit, at Kalafrana on 1st October 1946
Lieutenant G.W. BAYLEY, Fleet Air Arm, Swordfish pilot on HMS Illustrious, in the second wave of attackers on the Italian Fleet anchored in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940, but failed to return. The records in Italy say that the plane crashed near the cruiser Gorizia, and that Lieutenant Bayley’s body was found the next day, but that of his Observer Lieutenant Slaughter was never found
F.D. BEALES, Lieutenant (A), Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Wing Commander P.R. BEARE, arrived 18th October 1941, C.O. of 104 Squadron flying Wellingtons
Sergeant Evan BEATTIE, pilot of a Wellington arriving from Gibraltar en route to Hal Far airfield, but crashed into Kalafrana Bay, 15th June 1941. All the crew were killed
Flight Lieutenant Henry Longfield BEATTY, crew member of Royal Air Force flying boat K.3595 that crashed on a hillside near Messina Sicily, killing all on board, 15th February 1935. The plane was flying from Naples to the RAF Base at Calafrana, en route to Singapore
Flying Officer H.J.S. BEAZLEY, Hurricane pilot with 249 Squadron, arrived on Malta 21st May 1941
Pilot Officer J. BECKITT, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 605 Squadron
Flight Lieutenant A.A.J. BEER, was in charge of the Airframe Repair Section, Kalafrana RAF base, in November 1941
Flight Lieutenant D.R. BEER, 43314, serving at Kalafrana RAF base, killed 18th April 1942
Corporal William John Thomas BEHAN, Royal Air Force, died on board HMS Illustrious, 10th January 1941. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Flying Officer Gerald BELLAMY, joined 261 Squadron in February 1941
Lieutenant Commander H.E. BELEW, pilot of a Lockheed Neptune P2V-5 patrol bomber of the United States Navy, which crashed on landing at Luqa Air Force Station, on 8th October 1952. The cause was thought to be the undercarriage collapsing. The plane burst into flames shortly afterwards, but the pilot had already got out of the aircraft unharmed
Flight Sergeant Jack BENDALL, 745763, a Blenheim pilot with 105 Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield in July 1941. On 17th September 1941 he took off to attack shipping off the south east coast of Tunisia, heading for Tripoli. As they made a low level attack over a heavily laden schooner the aircraft crashed into the sea, possibly as a result of hitting strong wires stretched between the ship’s masts. The pilot together with his Observer Sergeant Hill, and Wireless Op./Air Gunner Sergeant Brown were killed instantly. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Sergeant F.M. BENITZ, Royal Canadian Air Force. Wellington pilot. Whilst carrying out a bombing mission with twenty-three other Wellingtons over Naples during the night of 20th October 1941, his aircraft developed problems with the port engine, so he decided to return to Malta. However, some of the bombs were still on the aircraft and had failed to launch correctly over Naples, so he changed course for Palermo and managed to drop them. The port engine stopped completely but he skilfully flew back to Malta on one engine. He was subsequently awarded the DFM
T.V. BENNETT, AF, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Sergeant Norman Wyatt BETTS, a crew member of a Shackleton aircraft which crashed on 12th February 1954, killing all the men on board
Squadron Leader George Frederick BEURLING DSO DFC DFM+Bar, from Montreal, Canada. The most famous of all the Spitfire pilots who operated in Malta during WWII. He enlisted in the RAF in September 1940, and joined 249 Squadron at Ta Kali on the 8th June 1942 with the rank of Sergeant. He returned to Canada and transferred to the Royal Canadian Air Force with the rank of Flight Lieutenant. After the war on 20th May 1948 at Rome’s Urbe Airport he was in a freighter aircraft which had just taken off when it got into difficulties crashed in flames killing him and the other pilot
Carmelo BEZZINA, F54404, born December 1889, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Flight Sergeant Albert Edward BIBB, aged 34 years, widower, RAF base Calafrana, the son of John Bibb, married 15th June 1936 to, Margaret Edith OSMAN, aged 24 years, spinster, the daughter of Frank Llewellyn Osman
Flight Sub-Lieutenant John Richard BIBBY, aged 26 years, Royal Naval Air Service, the son of Mrs.John Birds, and husband of Mrs. Olive May Evis (formerly Bibby), of Toronto, Canada. Killed whilst flying 11th June 1917
Flight Sergeant J. BIBBY, arrived in Malta 6th September 1940 to form 431 Flight, pilot of Maryland reconnaissance aircraft. With 69 Squadron in August 1941
J.G. BIDDLE, Sub-Lieutenant (A), Fleet Air Arm, died 30th June 1941, of the Aircraft Carrier HMS Furious
Flying Officer E.G. BIDGOOD, Hurricane pilot. On 17th November 1940 at dawn he took off from the deck of the aircraft carrier HMS Argus for Malta. His aircraft was in the second wave consisting of six Hurricanes. None ever arrived at Malta, so it was presumed that they ran out of fuel and fell into the sea
Douglas Charles BIGGS, Royal Air Force, from Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, the son of Arthur James and Gladys Biggs, nee Butler, married 31st May 1959 to Helen ATTARD, of Zejtun, the daughter of Nicholas and Annetta Attard, nee Mifsud
Flight Lieutenant S.R. BIRD, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 605 Squadron
Squadron Leader John BISDEE, pilot of a Spitfire that flew off the US Aircraft Carrier USSWasp in April 1942 for Malta. Commanding Officer of 601 Squadron, was shot down whilst attacking German Ju-88 bombers on 21st April 1942. He landed in the sea and managed to get back to Malta. He later was Station Commander at Luqa, Royal Air Force base with the rank of Group Captain until 26th October 1945
David BISHOP, 562435, Warrant Officer, R.A.F. During the first half of 1942 there were constant and intense air raids on the aerodrome in Malta where he carried out his duties in the armament section. For his courage and devotion to duty during this difficult period he was awarded the George Medal in July 1942
Jean Helen Dorothy BISHOP, born 17th May 1930, the daughter of Gertrude Maud and Corporal John William Bishop, RAF base Calafrana
John Henry Eric BISLEY DFC, Royal Australian Air Force, fighter pilot with 126 Squadron in April 1942
Pilot Officer C.A. BLACKBURN, Hurricane pilot, arrived first week of June 1941. Shot down on 25th January 1942. He managed to bale out, but was injured and taken to Imtarfa hospital, the pilot-less aircraft crashed near Qrendi
D.V. BLACKLAWS, AM1, Fleet Air Arm, HMS St.Angelo, the Naval Shore Base, died 27th September 1941
Sergeant William Alfred BLACKMORE, 590841, Royal Air Force. A Beaufort pilot with 39 Squadron. Whilst on a mission the attack enemy shipping on 12th March 1943, his aircraft was hit by flak and brought down killing all the crew. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Flight Sergeant Georges BLAIZE, a Frenchman, took off from Kalafrana at 00.05 on 22nd September 1941 on a spying mission, but the aircraft was forced to land on the water about twenty miles from Malta. The rough sea broke up the aircraft and he died along with the Gunner, Flight Sergeant R.Gatien, a Frenchman, and Fleet Air Arm Observer Sub-Lieutenant Reginald Drake
Flying Officer BLAKE-SMITH, became Master of HSL 107 at Kalafrana RAF base, end 1940/early 1941
Pilot Officer Merton Campbell BLANCHARD, an American serving in the Royal Canadian Air Force, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 242 Squadron. Early on 29th December 1941, thirty-six enemy aircraft were approaching Malta when the Hurricanes of 185 and 242 Squadrons were scrambled. His aircraft collided in mid air with the Hurricane flown by Pilot Officer MacNamara, and he was killed. P.O. MacNamara managed to bale out of his aircraft into the sea and was rescued. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Flying Officer J.W. BLENNERHASSETT, pilot of Bristol Beaufighter that arrived from England via Gibraltar on 1st May 1941, with twelve others
Corporal P.J BLY, 2721129, aged 20 years, from Crowle, Lincolnshire, killed in an air crash 18th February 1956. See ALLBERRY for details
Corporal A.D. BLYTHE, 530820, serving at Kalafrana RAF base, died 30th December 1941
Leading Aircraftsman Cyril BOARMAN. During darkness in the evening of 8th March 1942 a Wellington bomber of No. 37 Squadron R.A.F., was taxiing down the runway at Luqa RAF Station when it collided with a Wellington of the same Squadron which was just taking off from the same runway in the opposite direction. Both aircraft burst into flames and the bombs and mines which had been fitted to both aircraft began exploding. However, some ground staff rushed to the scene in an attempt to rescue men from the stricken aircraft. They managed to help seven injured men to safety, whilst three died in the crash, and one crewman was uninjured. For his bravery he was awarded the George Medal, together with three other members of the R.A.F., Squadron Leader Robert Hill, Flight Lieutenant Ernest Williams, and Leading Aircraftsman Hyman Sumray
Squadron Leader M.C.B. BODDINGTON DFC DFM, with 242 Squadron in June 1943 at Hal Far airfield
Reginald BODDY, 118762, Leading Aircraftman. The aerodrome in Malta where he was stationed came under heavy bombing attacks by enemy aircraft. He was employed on aerodrome duties, and continued working whilst intensive and prolonged air attacks were in progress. He was wounded twice and after his discharge from hospital returned to his work with the same courage and enthusiasm. One evening in April 1942 during an enemy air attack on the aerodrome, our aircraft were landing and then had to be dispersed. He remained on duty and assisted the crew out of the last aircraft, directing them to cover only a few seconds before it received a direct hit. Without his bravery at that time the crew would most likely have been seriously injured or killed. He was awarded the British Empire Medal in June 1942 for his courage
David BOLLAN, Leading Aircraftsman, was knocked down in the road close to Porte des Bombes, by a Naval truck driven by Marine Desmond W. Sherwin. He was taken to 90 General Hospital at Imtarfa where he died that afternoon, 24th May 1946. Sherwin also hit a cab and a shelter, and it was later established he was under the influence of drink
Sergeant John BOLTON, pilot, in a Wellington arriving from Gibraltar en route to Hal Far airfield, but crashed into Kalafrana Bay, 15th June 1941. All the crew were killed
Antonio BONELLO, F54335, born 21st April 1887, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 22nd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
W.G.H. BONHAM, Lieutenant, Fleet Air Arm, HMS St.Angelo, the Naval Shore Base, died 3rd May 1943
Pilot Officer F.J. BORET. On 17th November 1940 at dawn he took off from the deck of the aircraft carrier HMS Argus for Malta. His aircraft was in the second wave consisting of six Hurricanes. None ever arrived at Malta, so it was presumed that they ran out of fuel and fell into the sea
Antonio BORG, F54304, born March 1881. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 21st March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Giuseppe BORG, F54410, born January 1890, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Giuseppe BORG, F54306, born January 1892. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 22nd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Paulo BORG, F54346, born November 1874, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 23rd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Vincenzo BORG, F54416, born January 1885, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 22nd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Philip A. BORG CARDONA, Leading Aircraftsman, Royal Air Force. He served in Malta 1940, Egypt 1940 – 1943, Malta 1943 – 1944, Italy 1944 – 1946, and Malta 1946 – 1964. He died on 26th June 2006
Giorgio BORNICI, F54333, born May 1895, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 22nd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Flying Officer J.E. BOSLEY, the observer in a Martin Maryland aircraft of 69 Squadron, on 15th February 1942, having sighted 3 Italian Cruisers and 6 Italian Destroyers, decided to return to the base in Malta. The port engine failed, and they were attacked by German fighter aircraft that damaged the starboard wing and ailerons with cannon fire. The starboard window was shot away, the Gunner’s cockpit smashed, and the petrol tank was also hit. The aircraft went into a spin, but the pilot managed to gain control and get into some cloud cover. About 12 miles from the Maltese coast, they were attacked again by enemy aircraft and suffered machine gun fire which caused further damage, the instrument panel and even the pilot’s helmet and goggles were hit. The starboard engine stopped so the pilot had to ditch into the sea off Benghisa, and in the process part of the starboard wing and rudder fell off. Whilst other planes circled overhead a launch rescued the four-man crew, but he sustained a broken arm
Sergeant Casimir Marmaduke de BOUNEVIALLE, a Beaufighter pilot with 227 Squadron in November 1942
John William BOURKE, bachelor, Transport Driver, Royal Australian Air Force, R.N.A.S. Hal Far, the son of John William Bourke, married 12th January 1953, to Joan ROBBINS, spinster, the daughter of William Robbins
Daphne Lilian BOWDIDGE, the daughter of Lilian Rose Bowdidge, W.O.'s Quarters, Calafrana, born 2nd June 1931
Group Captain BOWEN-BUSCARLET, Senior Air Staff Officer, Malta, Summer 1942
Sergeant O.R BOWERMAN, Hurricane pilot, flew his plane off the deck of HMS Argus on 2nd August 1940, and landed at Luqa to increase the number of aircraft to defend the island. He left Malta 7th April 1941 for Egypt
Midshipman J. BOWKER, Fleet Air Arm, Swordfish Observer, on HMS Illustrious and in the first wave of attackers on the Italian Fleet anchored in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940
C.I.L. BOYD, 43962, Flying Officer, Pilot, No. 37 Squadron, R.A.F., injured 8th March 1942. In the dark his Wellington bomber Z.9038 was taxiing down the runway at Luqa RAF Station when it collided with Wellington D.V. 483 which was just taking off from the same runway in the opposite direction. Both aircraft burst into flames and rescue attempts were hampered by exploding bombs and mines which had been fitted to both aircraft. He was taken from the scene to No. 45 General Hospital, at St. Patrick's Barracks, Pembroke
Sergeant John L. BOYD, Royal Australian Air Force, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 242 Squadron. He was a veteran pilot with the Squadron and was due to return to the U.K., but crashed on Luqa runway, 14th May 1942
Pilot Officer J.M. BOYLE, arrived in July 1941 and joined 249 Squadron
Sergeant Thomas Frank Patrick BOYNTON, 1377891, Royal Air Force (V.R.). A member of 39 Beaufort Squadron. On 11th April 1943 whilst engaged on a mission to attack enemy shipping near Palermo, his aircraft was hit and crashed killing all the crew. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Flying Officer John BOYS-STONES, 33434, the pilot of a Martin Maryland aircraft, 69 Squadron left Luqa on a reconnaissance flight to Taomina, but was attacked by enemy aircraft, 7th May 1941. His two crew members were Wireless Operator/Air Gunner Sergeant Jack Levy, who was killed inside the plane by the enemy fire. The Observer, Sergeant J.M. Alexander, managed to bale out, but descending by parachute he was shot at from the ground by some soldiers. Luckily they missed him and he survived. By the time Boys-Stones tried to bale out from the blazing aircraft it was too low, so his parachute didn’t open correctly. He was badly wounded and died shortly afterwards
Corporal J. BRACEWELL, 4411464, aged 24 years, from Bradford, killed in an air crash 18th February 1956. See ALLBERRY for details
Flying Officer H.F.R. BRADBURY, Hurricane pilot, flew his plane off the deck of HMS Argus on 2nd August 1940, and landed at Luqa to increase the number of aircraft to defend the island. Retired from the Royal Air Force in 1957
Sergeant R. BRADFORD, a Gunner serving with 39 Squadron. Whilst taking part in nighttimes attack on enemy shipping on the 25th February 1943 his aircraft was brought down in the sea. The Beaufort pilot, Pilot Officer J.C.W. Hewetson was killed but Bradford together with Sergeant A. John Coles the Wireless Operator, and the Flight Sergeant A.L. Brice, the Navigator, survived the crash and climbed out of the plane and managed to launch the rubber dinghy. This was damaged and slowly deflating, but they were shortly picked up by an Italian torpedo boat Monsone and taken to Naples and into captivity. They were held at Camp PG66 near Naples, but later separated. They met up again at Stalag IVB at Muhlburg in Germany, and were liberated by the advancing Russian troops on 23rd April 1945
Squadron Leader BRAITHWAITE-YOUNG, Chaplain at Luqa airfield, November 1949
Corporal Walter BRAMHALL, RAF, Coxswain of a Brooke motorboat that took over the rescue of an Italian floatplane from RAF high-speed launch HSL107 in July 1942. See STREVER for details
Sergeant BRANCH, with 249 Squadron at Ta Kali in December 1941
Flight Lieutenant Sidney BRANDT, Flight Commander with 249 Squadron of Hurricanes. On the afternoon of 29th December 1941 he was engaged in fighting enemy aircraft which were attacking shipping between Malta and Gozo, when he was shot down into the sea and lost. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Sergeant F.B. BRANDWOOD, sent from 88 Squadron to 105 Squadron as replacement in August 1941. On the afternoon of 12th September 1941 he was attacking shipping off the North Africa coast when his aircraft was damaged by gunfire from the enemy destroyer escorts. The starboard engine was hit and put out of action, and a fire was raging in the bomb bay. In spite of efforts by the crew to extinguish the fire the plane crashed into the sea. The Observer was Sergeant Miller and Wireless Op./Air Gunner Sergeant Anthony Mee. After going beneath the waves the plane came up to the surface again, and Sergeant Mee managed to release the rubber dinghy. The three men climbed in although Mee was suffering from an injured back. The other Blenheims on the mission flew over the dinghy and indicated that they had been seen and reported the downed crew on their arrival back at Luqa airfield. During the night the three men heard and saw flashes of other attacks on enemy shipping. At 08.00 the next morning they saw a submarine, which approached them. It turned out to be HMS Utmost, from the 10th Flotilla based at Manoel Island. About twelve hours later the submarine was back at base with the rescued RAF men, having sailed about 117 miles on the surface and 35 miles submerged. Air reconnaissance planes had been sent out to locate the men, without success, since the RAF were unaware that the submarine has carried out the rescue
Sergeant R.A. BRANSON, a Hurricane pilot, took off from the deck of HMS Ark Royal on 27th April 1941, to bring additional aircraft to Malta. On 6th May 1941 he was with other Hurricanes engaged in battle with German fighters when he his aircraft was badly damaged and he baled out suffering from burns to his right leg. On 12th May 1941, he was a member of 185 Squadron that was formed at Hal Far. Retired from the Royal Air Force in 1963
Sergeant BRENNAN, 2nd Coxswain, Search and Rescue launch HSL 137, in August 1938, based at Royal Air Force Station Calafrana
Pilot Officer Virgil Paul BRENNAN, DFC DFM, Royal Australian Air Force, fighter pilot with 249 Squadron at Ta Kali airfield, Summer 1942. Killed in a flying accident on 13th June 1943
Cyril Fraser BREWERTON DSC, Flight-Lieutenant, Royal Air Force, died 18th January 1927, aged 28 years. Killed in a flying accident. From Sevenoaks, Kent. He had been flying for 11 years
Flight Sergeant A.L. BRICE, a Navigator serving with 39 Squadron. Whilst taking part in nighttime attack on enemy shipping on the 25th February 1943 his aircraft was brought down in the sea. The Beaufort pilot, Pilot Officer J.C.W. Hewetson was killed but Brice together with Sergeant A. John Coles the Wireless Operator, and the Gunner, Sergeant R.Bradford, survived the crash and climbed out of the plane and managed to launch the rubber dinghy. This was damaged and slowly deflating, but they were shortly picked up by an Italian torpedo boat Monsone and taken to Naples and into captivity. They were held at Camp PG66 near Naples, but later separated. They met up again at Stalag IVB at Muhlburg in Germany, and were liberated by the advancing Russian troops on 23rd April 1945
Sergeant BRIDGE, Blenheim Pilot, with 105 Squadron in September 1941
Leonard John BRIDLE, born 30th March 1930, the son of Annie and Leading Aircraftsman Frederick John Bridle, RAF base Calafrana
Pilot Officer K.C. BRIFFETT, a Navigator with 227 Squadron. Whilst on a mission on 4th October 1942 to attack enemy shipping his aircraft lost power and crashed into the sea killing the pilot, Flight Sergeant Fargher. He survived and managed to stay in a rubber dinghy until rescued by RAF high-speed launch
Mrs BRIGHTMAN, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Giovanni BRINCAT, F54293, born May 1896 in St.Julians. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 8th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Giuseppe BRINCAT, F54337, born October 1896, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 22nd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Sergeant Frederick A. BRINTON, a Fitter/Armourer with 227 Squadron, in November 1942 at Ta Kali
Warrant Officer Donald G. BRISCO, from New Zealand, a Beaufighter pilot with 227 Squadron, was shot down on 20th August 1942. He survived and was taken as a Prisoner-of-War with his Navigator Sergeant Paterson
A.C. BROAD, AM1, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Sergeant Charles BROAD, Hurricane pilot, with 185 Squadron, was shot down on 10th April 1942, his plane crashed on the outskirts of Naxxar. He successfully baled out, and landed safely, sustaining some cuts
Flight Lieutenant A.B. BROADLEY, a Blenheim pilot with 105 Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield in July 1941. In late afternoon on 1st August 1941 he led three Blenheims on a mission to attack enemy shipping off Lampedusa. They scored direct hits on the ships, but his aircraft was badly damaged by flak, and crashed into the sea. He was picked up along with Sergeant V.Marsh the W.Op/A.G., by an Italian rescue launch some time later and they became Prisoners-of-War. The Observer, Pilot Officer A.S. Ramsay died of his wounds. Towards the end of the war Flight Lieutenant Broadley was held in Stalag Luft 3, the scene of the famous Great Escape
Sergeant B.F. BROOKES, 925829, Observer with 105 Blenheim Squadron at Luqa airfield. On 17th September 1941 he took off to attack shipping off the south east coast of Tunisia heading for Tripoli. After attacking a heavily laden schooner, the aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire and burst into flames. The other two crew members, Wireless Op./Air Gunner Burrell, and Pilot Officer Robinson were also killed
Ronald BROOKES, the son of Clara and Cyril Richardson Brookes, Isouard Street, Sliema, Corporal, Royal Air Force, born 16th July 1934
Flight Sergeant Lucien BROOKS, 229 Squadron, from Canada. Died 25th April 1942. He crashed near St.Pauls Bay, and was found by some Army officers. He had sustained a cannon shell through his pelvis, and was badly burnt around his head
Sergeant Ivor G. BROOM, Blenheim Pilot arrived with 105 Squadron at Luqa on the 18th September 1941. Transferred to 107 Squadron, and was engaged on attacking enemy shipping supplying the German forces in North Africa. In November 1941 was promoted to Pilot Officer. In January 1942 he left Malta for Egypt. He continued with a service career and rose to become Air Marshal Sir Ivor Broom KCB CBE DSO DFC+2 Bars AFC, retiring from the RAF in 1977
Sergeant Alexander BROWN, 552771, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield July 1941. On 17th September 1941 he took off to attack shipping off the south east coast of Tunisia, heading for Tripoli. As they made a low level attack over a heavily laden schooner the aircraft crashed into the sea, possibly as a result of hitting strong wires stretched between the ship’s masts. Sergeant Brown together with his Pilot Sergeant Bendall, and Observer Sergeant Hill were killed instantly. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Leading Aircraftsman D. BROWN, 4122086, aged 20 years, from Mains of Fintry, Dundee, killed in an air crash 18th February 1956. See ALLBERRY for details
Sergeant G. BROWN, Navigator of a Maryland aircraft from 69 Squadron sent to reconnoitre off Cape Matapan 29th March 1941. It crashed into the sea near the island of Zante. The pilot Flying Officer F.R. Ainsley died in the crash, but Brown and W.Op/Air Gunner Sergeant A.E.White, survived and were taken by the Greeks to Athens. From there they travelled through Southern Greece to Crete then Alexandria and finally back to Malta arriving in May
Ernest Derek BROWN, aged 23 years, bachelor, Leading Airman, R.N., 728 Squadron, RAF Hal Far, the son of Stanley Leon Brown, married 3rd September 1966 to, Linda Joyce STOTT, aged 20 years, spinster, WRNS, the daughter of James Stott. The Marriage was conducted by the Reverend Joseph Raymond Ash, Chaplain, R.N. and took place at St.Nicholas Church, Hal Far
Flight Sergeant Kenneth Charles BROWN, piloting a Hudson of 233 Squadron from Gibraltar to Malta failed to arrive, 11th December 1941. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Group Captain L.F. BROWN, took over as Station Commander at Luqa Royal Air Force base, 17th September 1949
Wing Commander Mark Henry BROWN DFC + Bar, from Canada. Arrived 5th November 1941 to be Wing Leader at Ta Kali. He died in an attack on targets in Sicily 12th November 1941
P.F.C. BROWN, Sub-Lieutenant (A), RNVR, attached to HMS Grebe the Naval Air Station in Egypt, but operating from Malta. Died 2nd March 1942
Flying Officer Roger Albert BROWN, aged 24 years, bachelor, the son of Denis Alfred Brown, married 14th August 1971 to, Sharon JACOBS, aged 20 years, spinster, the daughter of John Jacobs, at St.Christopher’s Station Church, Luqa Aerodrome. The ceremony was performed by the Reverend John Ellerbeck Daimond, RAF Chaplain
Sergeant Ronald William Clark BROWN, aged 26 years, bachelor, RAF, the son of William Thomas Brown, married 11th April 1944 to, Alexandra CINI, aged 22 years, spinster, the daughter of Richard Arthur Paul Henry Cini
Leading Aircraftsman Cyril D. BROWNE, 1069726, 138 Squadron, died in an air crash 17th December 1942. See Major Lord A.A.B. APSLEY for details
Squadron Leader S.F. BROWNE, pilot with 243 Squadron in July 1943 at Hal Far airfield
Sergeant James G. BRUCE, a Blenheim pilot with 105 Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield in July 1941
Lieutenant Thomas Lawe Guy BRYAN, a Royal Marine pilot, serving with the Fleet Air Arm on board HMS Hermes. When landing his Fairey D3 on the deck of the carrier it skidded and went over the side into the sea and sank. He was trapped inside and died, 30th March 1926, aged 25 years
Eric John BRYANT, the son of Ruth Ellen and Walter Frank Bryant, Flight Lieutenant, Royal Air Force. Died 24th May 1920, aged 3 months
Ronald Frank BRYANT, born 13th February 1922, the son of Ruth Ellen and Walter Frank Bryant, Flight-Lieutenant, Royal Air Force, living 3 Don Rua Street, Sliema. Buried 1st March 1922
Pilot Officer J.M. BRYCE, a pilot with 227 Beaufighter Squadron. On 14th October 1942 whilst attacking enemy shipping off the North African coast his aircraft received direct hits in the engines from enemy fire, causing it to crash into the sea. He survived and was rescued by the Italian torpedo boat Medici, and became a Prisoner-of-War, together with his Navigator Flight Sergeant Cole
Flying Officer Charles BRYSON, a Beaufighter navigator with 248 Squadron. He was shot down in the sea on 21st August 1942, but managed to get into his rubber dinghy with his pilot Flying Officer Standton. Both were taken as a Prisoners-of-War, but he died in captivity shortly before the end of the war
Wing Commander John K. BUCHANAN, took over command of 272 Squadron on 22nd November 1942. He lost his life in 1944
Sergeant Douglas William BUCK, Blenheim pilot, 18 Squadron. On 19th November 1941 six Blenheims took off to attack an enemy convoy headed for North Africa, but the gunfire from the escorting destroyers was intense and his aircraft was shot down. All the crew lost their lives. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Pilot Officer J. BUCKLEY, a Blenheim pilot with 105 Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield in July 1941
Flight Lieutenant John Walter BUCKSTONE, 79626, Royal Air Force (V.R.). A Spitfire pilot with 603 Squadron he was shot down in combat with German ME 109’s, and crashed off shore, 9th May 1942. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Nicola BUGEJA, F54413, born January 1899, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Salvatore BUGEJA, F54318, born January 1891, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 22nd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Sub-Lieutenant (A) W.A. BULL, Fleet Air Arm, Swordfish Observer on HMS Illustrious and in the first wave of attackers on the Italian Fleet anchored in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940
Thomas Frederick BULMAN, aged 35 years, bachelor, Aircraftsman, Royal Air Force, R.A.F. station Kalafrana, the son of Robert Bulman, married 17th April 1939, to Mabel Florence FOSTER, aged 44 years, spinster, 29 College Drive, Bebbington, Cheshire, the daughter of Joseph Charles Foster
Glynguard Robert BURGE, aged 24 years, bachelor, Officer, Royal Air Force, of RAF base Calafrana, the son of Robert Charles Burge, married 9th September 1924 to, Cicely Joyce SMITH, aged 21 years, spinster, of Ipswich, the daughter of Frederick Harry Smith
Andries Petrus BURGER, aged 28 years, bachelor, Navigator, South African Air Force, the son of Johannes Jacobus Burger, married 22nd October 1944, to Freda Mary BARLOW, aged 27 years, spinster, Women’s Royal Naval Service, the daughter of Charles Barlow
Flight Lieutenant George BURGES OBE DFC, pilot at Hal Far airfield in March 1940. He left Malta 5th June 1941 for England
Corporal C.C. BURKE, 1909(4)756, aged 23 years, from Dublin, killed in an air crash 18th February 1956. See ALLBERRY for details
Pilot Officer Mervyn BURKE, from Tasmania, undershot on landing on 9th June 1943, his Spitfire crashed into a stonewall, somersaulted, and broke up. He suffered head injuries and was out of action for two months He was a pilot with 243 Squadron
Corporal John William BURKEY, aged 23 years, bachelor, the son of Alfred Harold Burkey, Flight-Lieutenant, Royal Air Force, married 25th May 1963 to, Elizabeth Alison CRISP, aged 21 years, spinster, the daughter of Sidney James Crisp, Royal Air Force, at St.Christopher’s Station Church, Luqa Aerodrome. The ceremony was performed by an RAF Chaplain
Flight Lieutenant Norman Whitmore BURNETT, Hurricane pilot, arrived first week of June 1941. With 46 Squadron, shot down by Italian fighters, into the sea 11th June 1941. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
F.W. BURNEY, AM, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Pilot Officer Gordon BURNSIDE, Navigator with 227 Beaufighter Squadron in November 1942
Sergeant F. BURRELL, 638941, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, with 105 Blenheim Squadron, at Luqa airfield. On 17th September 1941 he took off to attack shipping off the south east coast of Tunisia heading for Tripoli. After attacking a heavily laden schooner, the aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire and burst into flames. The other two crew members, Observer Sergeant Brookes and Pilot Officer Robinson
John Kenneth BURRELL, aged 31 years, bachelor, Royal Air Force Officer, RAF station Luqa, the son of Frederick Thomas Burrell, married 22nd February 1947, to Beatrice Louise EMBLETON, aged 34 years, spinster, the daughter of Arthur Matthew Embleton
Sergeant H. BURTON, a Hurricane pilot, took off from the deck of HMS Ark Royal on 27th April 1941, to bring additional aircraft to Malta. On 12th May 1941, he was a member of 185 Squadron that was formed at Hal Far
Sub-Lieutenant A.J. BUSCALL, an Observer with Fleet Air Arm, in the first wave of attackers on the Italian Fleet anchored in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940
J. BUSCALL, Sub-Lieutenant (A), RNVR, attached to HMS Grebe the Naval Air Station in Egypt, but operating from Malta. Died 22nd February 1942
J.D. BUSHELL, Petty Officer Airman, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Leading Aircraftsman S.H. BUTCHART, 4081381, aged 22 years, from Hilton, Inverness, killed in an air crash 18th February 1956. See ALLBERRY for details
Corporal George Charles BUTLER, aged 27 years, bachelor, RAF station Hal Far, the son of Charles Butler, married 9th November 1929 to, Ethel EDWARDS, aged 26 years, spinster, the daughter of Samuel Edwards
Pilot Officer Leslie BUTLER, W.Op/Air Gunner, in a Wellington arriving from Gibraltar en route to Hal Far airfield, but crashed into Kalafrana Bay, 15th June 1941. All the crew were killed
M. BUTLER, from Canada, pilot with 249 Squadron in the summer of 1942 at Ta Kali airfield
Raymond Kenneth BUTLER, aged 23 years, bachelor, Storekeeper Royal Air Force, RAF station Kalafrana, the son of Arthur James Butler, married 26th February 1938, to Nellie MYERSCOUGH, aged 25 years, spinster, Variety Artiste, 71 Strada St. Anna, Floriana, the daughter of John Myerscough
Francesco BUTTIGIEG, F54373, born October 1881, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 25th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Francisco BUTTIGIEG, F54371, born July 1873, stonemason. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 25th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Anne BUTTON, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in 1942
Hawker Siddeley Nimrod Herbert George William CAGBY, 561487, Flight Sergeant, R.A.F., from Rugby, Warwickshire. An aircraft was set on fire during an enemy air attack on the aerodrome in Malta where he was stationed. Whilst a second wave of bombers were diving to attack he displayed great courage by removing about fifty 40 lb. bombs from the vicinity of the aircraft. His prompt action prevented a giant explosion which would have destroyed valuable property and possible loss of lives. On many occasions he showed bravery and set a fine example to other airmen. He was awarded the British Empire Medal in July 1942
Group Captain C.H. CAHILL DFC AFC, Commanding officer of Luqa Airfield in Summer of 1941
Geoffrey Crerar CAIRNS, aged 21 years, bachelor, Flying Officer, Royal Air Force, 73 Squadron, RAF station Ta Kali, the son of James William Cairns, married 3rd April 1948, to Carol Babette EVERNDEN, aged 21 years, spinster, Women’s Royal Naval Service, the daughter of Harold Ivan Frederick Evernden
Lorenzo CALAFATO, F54352, born March 1886, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 23rd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Carmelo CALLEIJA, F54310, born October 1879, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 21st March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Francesco CALLEIJA, F54378, born November 1888, painter. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Gaetano CALLEJA, F54296, born February 1889. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 21st March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Giovanni CALLEIJA, F54377, born July 1898, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Giuseppe CALLEIJA, F54409, born 1st November 1877, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Nicola CALLEJA, F54285, born November 1870. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 21st March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Sergeant CALLUS, 2nd Engineer, Search and Rescue launch HSL 137, in August 1938, based at Royal Air Force Station Calafrana
Lieutenant Neville K. CAMBELL, Swordfish Pilot with 830 Squadron, in September 1940. During the night of 6th May 1941 he was engaged in mine-laying operations in Tripoli harbour when his aircraft was hit by AA fire and ditched just off the Libyan coast. He managed to swim ashore together with his Observer and was captured. His Telegraphist/Air Gunner Petty Officer W.G.T. Welsh died of his injuries
Antonio CAMELLERI, F54313, born April 1892, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 21st March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Francisco CAMELLERI, F54386, born February 1884, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Giuseppe CAMELLERI, F54369, born May 1875, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 25th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Salvatore CAMELLERI, F54370, born March 1874, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 23rd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Timoleone CAMENZULI, F54383, born September 1877, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Carmelo CAMILLERI, F54403, born November 1889, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Loreto CAMILLERI, F54286, born August 1875. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 5th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Phillipo CAMILLERI, F54324, born March 1892, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 22nd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Rafalo CAMILLERI, F54339, born August 1877, shipwright. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 22nd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Sergeant CAMERON, from Canada. On board a Wellington of the Overseas Air Delivery Unit, which was shot down in flames about 90 miles from Kalafrana, on 15th November 1941. The aircraft ditched successfully and all on board transferred to a dinghy and were later picked up by Royal Air Force Search and Rescue launch HSL128
Pilot Officer Donald CAMERON, from Canada. Observer in a Wellington arriving from Gibraltar en route to Hal Far airfield, but crashed into Kalafrana Bay, 15th June 1941. All the crew were killed
Flying Officer Eric CAMERON, Royal Canadian Air Force, Wireless Op./Air Gunner, served with 221 and 69 Squadrons in 1942
Miss Irene CAMERON BEM, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Miss Patricia CAMERON, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta killed in an air raid 1st March 1942, aged 18 years
Sergeant Andrew B. CAMPBELL, from Dunfermline, a Navigator with 227 Beaufighter Squadron. On Christmas Day 1942 he took off to attack enemy shipping off the Tunisian coast. They successfully located the target and went in for an attack. His Beaufighter was hit three times by enemy fire making the elevators, rudder and trims unserviceable. At a height of about twenty feet above the sea his pilot headed for the coast of Tunisia and managed to slightly gain some height so turned the aircraft in the direction of Malta trying all the time to gain more height. Eventually they climbed to around 7000 feet but with none of the instruments working and almost no controls, the plane would climb then dive uncontrollably. The pilot, Pilot Officer Dallas Schmidt, ordered him to bale out, which he did landing in the sea about fifty-five miles from Malta, but wearing his Mae West lifejacket. With skilful manoeuvring the pilot managed to nurse the aircraft back to Malta and when over the island he baled out and parachuted safely down to earth. Sergeant Campbell meanwhile was in the water for about two and a half hours before a searching Swordfish aircraft located him and dropped a rubber dinghy. A High Speed Launch picked him up and brought him into Kalafrana. The officers from 227 Squadron Mess interrupted their Christmas celebrations to go over to Kalafrana Bay and welcome him home. After WWII he took up teaching and became a headmaster
Leading Aircraftsman D.A. CAMPBELL, crew member of a Sunderland flying boat 28th July 1940, attacked by Italian fighters and badly shot up.
Leading Aircraftsman John Redpath CAMPBELL, aged 21 years, bachelor, RAF station Hal Far, the son of John Campbell, married 18th April 1937 to, Dorothy Violet Inkster LAWRENCE, aged 24 years, spinster, of 27 Stockwood Crescent, Luton, Bedfordshire, the daughter of Albert Lawrence
Sergeant Cecil George CANDLER, 1264286, Royal Air Force (V.R.), a Navigator with 227 Squadron. He was in a Beaufighter taking part in an attack on the seaplane base at Bizerta on 14th November 1942, when his aircraft was shot down by enemy fighters. He died together with his Pilot, Sergeant J.E.Hughes. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Flight Lieutenant Maurice Quartano CANDLER, aged 30 years, bachelor, RAF station Felixstowe, the son of Cecil Horace Candler, married 24th March 1936 to, Dawn St.Clair SALTER, aged 23 years, spinster, the daughter of Dane Wilding Salter
Francisco CARDONA, F54353, born March 1880, sailmaker. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 23rd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
R.H. CARDWELL, Sub-Lieutenant, RNVR, Fleet Air Arm, HMS St.Angelo, the Naval Shore Base, died 23rd December 1941
Flying Officer Guy CARLET, Legion d’Honneur, Croix de Guerre (France), J/5044, Royal Canadian Air Force. A Spitfire pilot with 603 Squadron. On 9th July 1942 whilst attacking some German JU88 aircraft he was shot down by enemy fighters and died. His correct name was, Guy Andre LEVY-DESPAS. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Lieutenant G.A. CARLINE, of 819 Squadron, Fleet Air Arm, Swordfish Observer, on HMS Illustrious and in the second wave of attackers on the Italian Fleet anchored in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940
Sergeant E. Fraser CARLISLE-BROWN, a Navigator with 39 Squadron flying Beaufort aircraft in February 1943
Leading Aircraftsman P.R. CARLTON, 4084971, aged 22 years, from Halifax, killed in an air crash on 18th February 1956. For details see ALLBERRY
Flying Officer J.M.V. CARPENTER, Hurricane pilot, arrived first week of June 1941
Lieutenant CARSLAKE, died 22nd October 1922, when his Aero Bison aircraft crashed into the sea, about five miles off Malta, killing all the crew
Sergeant R.R. CARSON, Hurricane pilot, arrived first week of June 1941
Sergeant CARTER, arrived July 1941 and joined 249 Squadron
Flight Sergeant CARTER, pilot with 249 Squadron in October 1942
Flying Officer John Neville CARTWRIGHT, a Beaufort pilot of 39 Squadron in January 1943. He was killed on 14th July 1943. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Antonio CARUANA, F54399, born August 1883, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Carmelo CARUANA, F54299, born October 1899. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 23rd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Saverio CARUANA, F54390, born December 1880, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Carmelo CARUANO, F54350, born August 1890. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 21st March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
C.R. CASEY, Sub-Lieutenant (A), RNVR, Fleet Air Arm, HMS St.Angelo, the Naval Shore Base, died 15th June 1942
Flying Officer Ernest CASSIDY, Hurricane pilot with 249 Squadron, arrived on Malta 21st May 1941. A member of the Malta Night Fighter Unit when it was formed at Ta Kali in July 1941. In December 1941 the M.N.F.U. was re-named 1435 Squadron
Alan Godfrey CASWELL, born 2nd July 1937, the son of Rhoda Mary and Flight Sergeant Arthur William Caswell, RAF
GioMaria CATANIA, F54382, born 3rd March 1898, carpenter. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Francis Robert CATHCART, born 1st March 1932, the son of Violet Maud and Corporal William Cathcart, of Married Quarters RAF Calafrana
Owen CATHCART-JONES, a Fleet Air Arm pilot, from HMS Courageous, made the first landing of a fighter aircraft on an aircraft carrier at night, on 25th November 1929. His plane a Fairey Flycatcher took off from Hal Far RAF base and landed on the ship which was moored in Grand Harbour
Sergeant N.A.C. CATHLES, Blenheim pilot. With other Blenheims he was attacking shipping in Tripoli harbour on 23rd July 1941, but was shot down and all the crew lost their lives
Emanuele CAUCHI, F54311, born May 1898. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 21st March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Samuele CAUCHI, F54348, born September 1885, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 23rd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Pilot Officer Brian Moore CAVAN, a Hurricane pilot, took off from the deck of HMS Ark Royal on 27th April 1941, to bring additional aircraft to Malta. With 249 Squadron, on 20th December 1941 whilst engaged on attacking the enemy he was shot down and killed. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
J.T.D. CEELY, Sub-Lieutenant, died 14th June 1942, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Argus, whilst escorting the Convoy ‘Harpoon’
Edwin CHAFE, Lieutenant, Royal Navy, Flying Officer, Royal Air Force, died 18th January 1927, aged 27 years. Killed in a flying accident
AC1 CHALK, died 5th June 1936, when a Vildebeeste aircraft of 22 Squadron, based at Hal Far, crashed
Eric CHANDLER DFM, Wireless Op./Air Gunner with 107 Blenheim Squadron in October 1941
Sergeant E.F. CHANDLER, a Blenheim Gunner, with 82 Squadron. On 22nd June 1941 his aircraft was attacking an enemy convoy off the island of Lampedusa, but gunfire from the ships hit the pilot in both legs, and moments later the aircraft came under attack from an Italian fighter plane. Sergeant Chandler, the Gunner believed he shot down the fighter. From his injuries and loss of blood the pilot lapsed into unconsciousness from time to time, and the Observer Sergeant J.S. Sargent took over the controls and piloted the aircraft back to Malta. When over Malta Flight Lieutenant T.J. Watkins resumed as pilot and made a successful landing. He was subsequently awarded the DSO, and Sergeants Chandler and Sargent the DFM
S.W. CHAPMAN, Sub-Lieutenant (A), RNVR, attached to HMS Grebe the Naval Air Station in Egypt, but operating from Malta. Died 2nd March 1942
Sergeant Maurice CHAPPLE, ground crew with 105 Blenheim Squadron at Luqa airfield in August 1941
Sergeant John Lawrence CHARLTON, 1000318, Royal Air Force (V.R.), a member of 227 Beaufighter Squadron, he was shot down and died 5th January 1943. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Squadron Leader Frederick Richard Howard CHARNEY DFC, 101503, a Blenheim pilot with 105 Squadron at Luqa airfield August 1941. On 12th September 1941, he was attacking shipping off the North African coast but the enemy destroyer escorts shot down his aircraft killing all the crew. His Observer was Sergeant Porteous and Wireless Op./Air Gunner Sergeant D.R. Harris. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Leading Aircraftsman Leslie Harry CHASE, aged 25 years, bachelor, RAF base Calafrana, the son of Henry Charles Chase, married 13th November 1937 to, Theresa SCHILLER, aged 30 years, spinster, of Innsbruck, Austria, the daughter of Johann Schiller
W.A. CHAWNER, RAF ground crew, 69 Squadron, Luqa, Summer 1942
Pilot Officer CHENEY, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield July 1941
Group Captain J.S. CHICK MC DFC, was Station Commander at Luqa Royal Air Force base in 1941
Ronald John CHINNERY, aged 23 years, bachelor, Leading Aircraftsman, Engineer, Royal Australian Air Force, Hal Far, the son of Sylvester Thomas Clark Chinnery, married 5th May 1953, to Freda May HUTCHINSON, aged 24 years, spinster, the daughter of William Joseph Hutchinson
Angelo CHIRCOP, F54265, born 5th March 1888. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 5th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Chrystal Ann CHISWELL, born 1st January 1937, the daughter of Marjorie Eveline and Corporal Stanley Crawford Vernon Chiswell, Royal Air Force
Leading Aircraftsman Stanley Crawford Vernon CHISWELL, aged 25 years, bachelor, RAF base Calafrana, the son of Sydney Crawford Chiswell, married 2nd April 1936 to, Marjorie Eveline MOORE, aged 24 years, spinster, of 99 Southwick Road, Boscombe East Hampshire, the daughter of Arthur Moore
Sergeant CHOFFE, died 22nd February 1942, when his plane crashed. Member of 185 Squadron based at Hal Far airfield
R.A.F. CHURCHILL, Lieutenant, Fleet Air Arm, died 12th August 1942, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Victorious. Whilst escorting the ‘Pedestal’ Convoy his ship came under attack from enemy aircraft
Group Captain Walter Spencer CHURCHILL, Spitfire pilot. On 27th August 1942 he was part of a concerted attack on three airfields in Sicily, but was shot down over Biscara airfield and crashed
Giuseppe CILIA, F54411, born August 1887, painter. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Giuseppe CINI, F54415, born October 1898, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Flight Sergeant Campbell CLARK, 550958, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, 69 Squadron. On 10th August 1941 his Maryland aircraft was on reconnaissance over Catania, but during the return flight to Malta the starboard engine failed, they arrived at Luqa but the aircraft crashed short of the runway. The pilot Flight Lieutenant P.R. Wylde was killed instantly as was the observer Sergeant R.S.Mutimer. Flight Sergeant Clark was taken to hospital severely injured, where he died the next day. He is buried in Imtarfa cemetery
N.V. CLARK, Sub-Lieutenant (A), RNVR, Fleet Air Arm, HMS St.Angelo, the Naval Shore Base, died 24th February 1942
Wilfred Saunders CLARK, aged 30 years, bachelor, Pilot, RAF Luqa, the son of George Henry Clark retired, married 13th May 1943 to, Irene May CAMERON, aged 20 years, spinster, the daughter of Thomas Harold Cameron, RAF
Leading Aircraftsman D.J. CLARKE, 907554, serving at Kalafrana RAF Base, killed 8th May 1942
Aircraftsman J.S. CLARKE, 1075909, serving at Kalafrana RAF Base, died 10th May 1942
Flying Officer R.W. CLARKE. On 17th November 1940 at dawn he took off from the deck of the aircraft carrier HMS Argus for Malta. His aircraft was in the second wave consisting of six Hurricanes. None ever arrived at Malta, so it was presumed that they ran out of fuel and fell into the sea
Hugh CLAWSON, 634975, Corporal. One day in April 1942 an aircraft, which had been damaged by enemy fighters, crashed and burst into flames whilst attempting to land. The Malta aerodrome was under attack at the time by a considerable force of enemy fighters and bombers. Corporal Clawson and Leading Aircraftman Mitchison, drove across the aerodrome to the scene of the crash, in spite of the danger from sticks of bombs which were falling across their path. Also, enemy fighters continued to attack the burning aircraft with cannon fire. The two men were able to assist the pilot to safety, thereby saving his life. For their courage they were awarded the George Medal in June 1942
Arthur Fletcher CLEGG, aged 25 years, bachelor, Royal Air Force Officer, RAF station Luqa, the son of Frank Gordon Clegg, married 16th February 1945, to Elizabeth Fleming CAMPBELL, aged 25 years, widow, Women’s Royal Naval Service, the daughter of William WATSON
Leading Aircraftsman Richard CLEGG, 1233498, 138 Squadron, died in an air crash 17th December 1942. See Major Lord A.A.B. APSLEY for details
Lieutenant J.CLEMENTS, from South Africa, a Beaufighter pilot with 227 Squadron, operating from Ta Kali in November 1942. Whilst on a night bombing raid on Palermo on 24th November 1942, he was shot down and taken prisoner together with his Navigator Pilot Officer K.Pollard
Miss CLEWS, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Lieutenant E.W. CLIFFORD DSO, Fleet Air Arm, Swordfish pilot on HMS Illustrious. His aircraft was damaged before take off in the attack on Italian warships in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940. The fitters and riggers managed to repair the damage so that they took off about a half an hour after the others. He died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Flying Officer Richard CLINE DFC, Royal Canadian Air Force, from Vancouver, British Columbia. Wellington Bomber crew with 69 Squadron in 1942/1943
Pilot Officer Howard COFFIN, an American. Arrived September 1941 and joined 126 Squadron. In the afternoon of 9th March 1942, his aircraft was attacked by enemy fighters and he was forced to crash land near Gudja, suffering some head injuries
Sergeant Pilot Sydney COHEN, took off in a Swordfish on 12th June 1943, but the plane developed some fault that forced him to land as quickly as possible, which happened to be on the small island of Lampedusa. He was met by a number of Italians who wanted to surrender to him, and he was later given written statement to this effect by the Italian Commandant for delivery to the authorities in Malta
Squadron Leader Henry Gift COLDBECK. Born 29th November 1916, in New Zealand. Royal New Zealand Air Force, No.NZ405235. Arrived in Malta on 7th March 1942 and set up Photographic Reconnaissance Unit, attached to 69 Squadron at Luqa. Awarded the DFC on the 8th November 1942. He was shot down on the 10th November 1942 off Sicily, and taken Prisoner-of-War
Leading Aircraftsman Richard Grenville COLE, aged 29 years, bachelor, RAF Billet, Valletta, the son of Arthur Charles Cole deceased, married 27th March 1940 to, Mary Jane THOMPSON, aged 22 years, spinster, the daughter of Edwin Thompson, R.N.
Flight Sergeant S.W. COLE, a Navigator with 227 Beaufighter Squadron. On 14th October 1942 whilst attacking enemy shipping off the North African coast his aircraft received direct hits in the engines from enemy fire, causing it to crash into the sea. He survived and was rescued by the Italian torpedo boat Medici, and became a Prisoner-of-War, together with his pilot Pilot Officer Bryce
Sergeant A. John COLES, Wireless Operator, serving with 39 Squadron. Whilst taking part in nighttime attack on enemy shipping on the 25th February 1943 his aircraft was brought down in the sea. The Beaufort pilot, Pilot Officer Hewetson was killed but Coles together with the Navigator, Flight Sergeant A.L.Brice, and the Gunner, Sergeant R.Bradford, survived the crash and climbed out of the plane and managed to launch the rubber dinghy. This was damaged and slowly deflating, but they were shortly picked up by an Italian torpedo boat Monsone and taken to Naples and into captivity. They were held at Camp PG66 near Naples, but later separated. They met up again at Stalag IVB at Muhlburg in Germany, and were liberated by the advancing Russian troops on 23rd April 1945
William John Thomas COLLEDGE, born 30th November 1929, the son of Gladys Marion and Leading Aircraftsman Willam Colledge, RAF base Calafrana
Joseph COLLEIRO, F54272, born November 1879. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 5th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Thomas COLLEY, aged 26 years, bachelor, Fitter, Royal Air Force, 202 GR. Squadron, RAF station Kalafrana, the son of George Colley, married 16th March 1938, to Irene FIRTH, aged 24 years, spinster, Art Student, the daughter of Alfred Firth
Corporal J.D. COLLIER, 4070082, aged 23 years, from Llwnypia, Rhondda, killed in an air crash on 18th February 1956. For details see ALLBERRY
Lieutenant Lionel John COLLIER, aged 26 years 6 months, Royal Air Force, the son of John George Collier, married 16th October 1918 to, Dorothy Winifred HOPKINS, aged 29 years, spinster, the daughter of Charles Hopkins, Superintendent of Police HM Dockyard
Sergeant Leslie R. COLQUHOUN, RAF, Photo Reconnaissance Unit, Luqa, May 1942. Subsequently awarded the DFM, and granted a Commission
Sergeant COLVILLE, crew member of a Lockheed Hudson, 59 Squadron, on the 18th January 1942, when the aircraft crashed into high ground near Luqa. The three other crew members died but he survived
Sergeant G.D. COLVILLE, Wellington pilot with 40 Squadron. Shot down by enemy fighters and killed 2nd November 1941 whilst attacking the Castel Benito airfield, Tripoli
Flight Lieutenant Howard COLVIN, Photographic Interpreter, Luqa, June 1942.
Corporal S.H. COOK, 1280167, serving at Kalafrana RAF Base, killed 8th May 1942
R.L. CONDON , from Australia, a Beaufort pilot of 39 Squadron. Shot down on 20th August 1942 but survived and taken as a Prisoner-of-War with his crew
Bud CONNELL, from Canada, pilot with 249 Squadron in the summer of 1942 at Ta Kali
Flying Officer Leslie James CONNORS, Royal Australian Air Force, with 243 Squadron at Hal Far in July 1943. His damaged Spitfire came down in the sea close to the coast, and although he managed to get out and attempted to swim ashore, it is presumed he drowned, on 10th July. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
George Roy COOK, Leading Aircraftsman, aged 20 years, from Retford, died in an accident at RAF Luqa, April 1956
R.L. COOK, AM, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Sergeant COOPER, Hurricane pilot with 249 Squadron, arrived on Malta 21st May 1941
Flight Lieutenant Frank COOPER, held in internment by the Vichy French authorities in Tunisia, November 1940
Sergeant W.E. COPP, from Canada, Hurricane pilot, arrived first week of June 1941. With 126 Squadron scrambled to intercept incoming enemy aircraft on 27th December 1941 his aircraft was damaged in combat, and he had to bale out though sustaining some injuries
Spiro CORDINA, F54269, born January 1892. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 5th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Flight Sergeant COSTELLO, pilot with 249 Squadron at Qrendi in November 1942
Francis Peter COTTERELL, born 4th May 1930, the son of Edith Annie and Flight Sergeant Leonard Charles Cotterell, RAF base Calafrana. (twin)
Clifford George COTTERELL, born 4th May 1930, the son of Edith Annie and Flight Sergeant Leonard Charles Cotterell, RAF base Calafrana. (twin)
P.W.N. COUCH, Sub-Lieutenant (A), Fleet Air Arm, died 27th September 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Ark Royal
Pilot Officer C.E. COUNTER, a Hurricane pilot, arrived the last week of January 1941
Flight Sergeant Richard Allinson COUSENS, with 185 Squadron at Hal Far, early July 1941. Shot down by Italian fighters 21st November 1941 and killed. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Flying Officer Irving COWAN DFC, Royal Canadian Air Force, from Lower Montague, Prince Edward Island. Wellington Bomber crew with 69 Squadron in 1942/1943. He died in 1987 and is buried in London, Ontario
Flying Officer G.D. COX, Wellington pilot with 148 Squadron. He took part in the raid on airfields in the Catania area during the night of 12th January 1941
Corporal J.R. COX, 4922778, aged 22 years, from Norbury, London, killed in an air crash on 18th February 1956. For details see ALLBERRY
Mrs COX, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Miss COX, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Sergeant Lincoln CRAIG, 104 Squadron, pilot of Vickers Wellington. Six Wellingtons took off to bomb airfields in Sardinia. His was the last and failed to gain height, since the undercarriage was still down it struck a wall, causing the plane to crash, and all the crew were killed. 7th November 1942
Corporal G.A. CRAIGIE, 4076740, aged 22 years, from Kirkton, Dundee, killed in an air crash on 18th February 1956. For details see ALLBERRY
Flight Sergeant CRAIGIE, RAF Fighter Control Room, Lascaris Bastion in 1942
RAF over Manoel Island 1929 Sub-Lieutenant V.B. CRANE, Fleet Air Arm, pilot of Bristol Beaufighter that arrived from England via Gibraltar on 1st May 1941, with twelve others
Sergeant Frederick J. CRAVEN, of 252 Beaufighter Squadron, killed whilst on a sortie on 19th August 1941
John Francis CRAWFORD, aged 24 years, bachelor, Naval Airman, R.N., RNAS Hal Far, the son of Francis Crawford, married 27th March 1965 to, Agnes DOUGAN, aged 21 years, spinster, WRNS, RNAS Hal Far, the daughter of Robert Kay Dougan. The Marriage was conducted by the Reverend John Mason, Chaplain, R.N. and took place at St.Nicholas Church, Hal Far
F.T. CRAY, Leading Airman, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Vincenzo CREMONA, F54283, born May 1878. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 5th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Pilot Officer J.M.S. CRICHTON, a Hurricane pilot arrived September 1941 and joined 126 Squadron
Pilot Officer Walter CRIPPS, 601 Squadron, from Canada. He was shot down and crashed in High Street, Qormi, during the afternoon of 26th April 1942. He had lost one foot by cannon fire, and broke his ankle on landing. He later died in hospital from other injuries
Flight Sergeant E.A. CRIST, fighter pilot with 126 Squadron in April 1942
Pilot Officer George CROCKETT, Master of high-speed launch HSL128 of RAF Search and Rescue, Kalafrana, in October 1941
Harry CROOK, Wireless Op./Air Gunner with 69 Squadron in September 1942
Sergeant E. CROSSLEY, Blenheim pilot with 107 Squadron. On 24th December 1941 he was attacking shipping in Zuara harbour when his aircraft was shot down
Pilot Officer J.T. CROSSEY, Hurricane pilot with 249 Squadron, arrived on Malta 21st May 1941
Flight Sergeant Harry CROSSLEY, Blenheim pilot with 113 Squadron. Failed to return from a patrol near Pantelleria, 28th September 1941. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Pilot Officer A.M. CROW, a Navigator with 227 Beaufighter Squadron. On 5th October 1942 whilst searching for a crew member adrift in a rubber dinghy, his aircraft suffered engine failure and he had to ditch into the sea. His pilot was Squadron Leader Wigmore. Both managed to get into dinghies and were rescued by RAF high-speed launch
J.I. CRUICKSHANK, Sub-Lieutenant, Fleet Air Arm, died 12th August 1942, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Indomitable. His ship was part of the escort for Operation ‘Pedestal’ from Gibraltar. In the late afternoon twelve German Ju87 aircraft attacked the carrier and she suffered serious damage from the bombs. One hit the forward AA gun positions killing more than twenty of the Royal Marines detachment. Another landed near the forward lift and penetrated the upper gallery deck and exploded above the main hangar deck. The wardroom was crowded with off-duty pilots and observers when it was wrecked by a bomb killing all the occupants. The ship survived the onslaught and headed for Gibraltar
Barbara Nancy CRUNDY, born 16th December 1922, the daughter of Joan Johnstone and Robert Milne Crundy, Flying Officer, Royal Air Force
Arthur John CUDBY, 21 years, bachelor, Sergeant, Royal Air Force, RAF Dingli, the son of George Solomon Cudby, Steelworker, married 29th March 1958 to Pamela Cynthia DUNNETT, 23 years, spinster, Clerk, the daughter of Arthur Dunnett, Station Engineer
Miss Betty CUELL, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in 1942
Miss Helen CUELL, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Flying Officer Francis CULLEN, Royal Canadian Air Force, serving in Malta December 1943
Pilot Officer Alfred CUMBERS, Observer of Bristol Beaufighter, 89 Squadron. One of two planes airborne was obliged go return early. The AA guns on Malta were on ‘Guns Tight’, i.e. shoot at aircraft when identified, but the gunsite on the run into Luqa was still on ‘Guns Free’, i.e. could fire at any aircraft. They fired at the returning Beaufighter, so the pilot decided go around again, but with insufficient height he was forced to crash land. Men of the Royal Artillery arrived quickly at the scene and saw him trapped inside the burning aircraft, but managed to get him out. Although badly burnt he survived. The pilot had already got out of the top hatch sustaining only a few burns, but died later that night from shock, 26th September 1942
Peter CUMMING, with RAF Air/Sea Rescue Launch HSL128, 1942 to 1943
H.L. CUNLIFFE-OWEN, Sub-Lieutenant (A), RNVR, Fleet Air Arm, died 12th August 1942, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Indomitable. His ship was part of the escort for Operation ‘Pedestal’ from Gibraltar. In the late afternoon twelve German Ju-87 aircraft attacked the carrier and she suffered serious damage from the bombs. One hit the forward AA gun positions killing more than twenty of the Royal Marines detachment. Another landed near the forward lift and penetrated the upper gallery deck and exploded above the main hangar deck. The wardroom was crowded with off-duty pilots and observers when it was wrecked by a bomb killing all the occupants. The ship survived the onslaught and headed for Gibraltar
Flight Sergeant James D. CUNNINGHAM, 970824, a Wireless Op./Air Gunner with 39 Beaufort Squadron, was killed on 6th September 1942 whilst carrying out an attack on enemy shipping off the coast of Corfu
W.G. CUNNINGHAM, Hurricane pilot. On 17th November 1940 at dawn he took off from the deck of the aircraft carrier HMS Argus for Malta. His aircraft ran out of fuel over the sea before reaching the island and fell into the water. He was never found
Paolo CURMI, F54374, born July 1879, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 25th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Pilot Officer I.R. CURRIE, fighter pilot, arrived 20th January 1941, but died from cerebral malaria 31st January
Sergeant CURRY, Wireless Op./Air Gunner with 107 Blenheim Squadron in November 1941
John CURRY, Royal Canadian Air Force, from Dallas Texas, U.S.A., with 601 Squadron
Antonio CUSCHERI, F54401, born September 1899, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Giuseppe CUSCHERI, F54407, born November 1876, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Sergeant Albert John CUSWORTH, Navigator with 227 Beaufighter Squadron. Killed on 6th September 1942 when engaged on attacking enemy shipping off the coast of Corfu. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Paolo CUTAIJAR, F54396, born August 1889, painter. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Salvatore CUTAIJAR, F54367, born August 1882, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 25th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Carmelo CUTAJAR, F54270, born January 1871. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 5th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Sergeant Cyril N. CUTTING, Navigator with Beaufighter Squadron at Ta Kali in November 1942. On 13th November was with seven Beaufighters of 272 on an attack at El Aouina in Tunisia. After destroying several Ju-52’s on the ground, his aircraft was hit by flak and the pilot, Wing Commander Anthony Watson, force landed on a beach several miles away. The pair managed to reach Allied lines, and were back with the Squadron 30th November
Vitorio CUXCHERI, F54331, born November 1872, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 22nd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Charles John CZISLOWSKI, aged 24 years, bachelor, Corporal, Royal Australian Air Force, HMS Falcon Hal Far, the son of Albert Czislowski, married 26th March 1953, to Margaret Olivia LOCK, aged 19 years, spinster, the daughter of Ernest Henry Lock
Short Singapore III William Raoul DADDO-LANGLOIS DFC, Spitfire pilot with 249 Squadron at Ta Kali in the summer of 1942. Died 10th July 1943. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Kenneth George John DALE, aged 23 years, bachelor, Naval Airman, RNAS Hal Far, the son of George Dale, married 9th February 1952, to Jean Elizabeth VINEY, aged 23 years, spinster, the daughter of Edward Cecil Viney
Flight-Sergeant J.O. DALLEY, RAF, Photo Reconnaissance Unit, Luqa, Summer 1942. Subsequently awarded the DFM, and granted a Commission. Rose in the service to the rank of Group Captain
Flying Officer S.I. DALRYMPLE, pilot, with 243 Squadron in July 1943 at Hal Far
Lieutenant-Commander DALYELL-STEAD, Fleet Air Arm pilot with 829 Squadron. Whilst attacking the Italian battleship Vittorio Veneto at Cape Matapan on 28th March 1941 his torpedo struck the ship but enemy fire damaged his aircraft, it crashed into the sea and he lost his life
Miss D’ARCY, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Carmelo DARMANIN, F54355, born January 1872, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 23rd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Giuseppe DARMANIN, F54358, born 30th April 1893, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 23rd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Sergeant Leslie DAVEY, aged 22 years, bachelor, Fitter, Royal Air Force, of RAF base Calafrana, the son of Henry Davey, married 21st March 1923 to, Doris Adeline UNDERWOOD, aged 22 years, spinster, the daughter of Edward Underwood
Philip Leslie DAVEY, born 8th December 1923, the son of Doris Adeline and Sergeant Leslie Davey, Fitter, of RAF Calafrana.
Pilot Officer J.C. DAVIDSON, pilot of Bristol Beaufighter that arrived from England via Gibraltar on 1st May 1941, with twelve others
Leading Aircraftsman Donald Edward DAVIE, aged 25 years, bachelor, RAF base Calafrana, the son of Frederick Davie, married 25th September 1937 to, Kathleen Mary MEAD, aged 26 years, spinster, of 64 Tavistock Street, Luton, Bedfordshire, the daughter of William Henry Mead deceased
Sergeant Colin Lewis DAVIES, 1187719, Royal Air Force (V.R.), a member of 227 Squadron. Whilst flying in his Beaufighter he was shot down and killed 6th January 1943. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Flying Officer George Vincent DAVIES, took off from Luqa in a Hudson aircraft on 1st September 1940 to make a reconnaissance between Sicily and Tunisia. Mistaken as an enemy, aircraft from the aircraft carrier HMS Illustrious attacked it and forced the damaged plane to land in Tunisia, where the crew were interned by the Vichy French authorities
Pilot Officer J.H.M. DAVIES, Wellington Navigator with 148 Squadron. On 12th January 1941 took part in a nighttime attack to bomb airfields in the Catania area. Subsequently awarded the D.F.C.
Sergeant Leonard DAVIES, a Hurricane pilot, arrived the last week of January 1941. An ex-Battle of Britain pilot
Sergeant M.P. DAVIES, Hurricane pilot, arrived 17th March 1941 to join 261 Squadron
V.N.S. DAVIES DSC, Lieutenant, RNR, attached to HMS Grebe the Naval Air Station in Egypt, but operating from Malta. Died 24th January 1942
Pilot Officer C.C.H. DAVIS, joined 249 Squadron in July 1941
Flying Officer Edward Derek DAVIS, aged 26 years, bachelor, of RAF base Calafrana, the son of Henry Clement Davis, married 15th December 1921 to, Lilian Beatrice ALLEN, aged 21 years, spinster the daughter of Captain Walter Augustus Allen, RAOC
Sergeant George DAVIS, observer, 104 Squadron, crew member of a Vickers Wellington bomber. Six aircraft took off on a mission to bomb Catania, but only five arrived at the target. His aircraft was forced to return badly damaged and crashed near Qormi. He was killed in the crash, with three other crewmen, 29th May 1942
Corporal J.G.M. DAVIS. On 19th September 1940, after a Wellington bomber was set ablaze on the ground at Luqa airfield, he went into the burning aircraft, in spite of exploding ammunition and the possibility of the fuel tanks exploding, to retrieve four Vickers machine guns and ammunition. For this act of bravery he was awarded the British Empire Medal
James Hugh DAVIS, aged 22 years, bachelor, Naval Air Mechanic, HMS Falcon, the son of Robert Davis, married 19th January 1963 to, Judith Ena SPENSLEY, aged 26 years, spinster, QARRNS, HMS Falcon, the daughter of William Spensley deceased. The Marriage was conducted by the Reverend George Knight, Chaplain, R.N. and took place at St.Nicholas Church, Hal Far
Lieutenant U.N.S. DAVIS DSC, ferrying an Albacore from North Africa to Malta, 24th January 1942, with Sub-Lieutenant A.D. Mahar, presumed crashed into the sea, never found
Sergeant Pat J. DAVOREN, pilot with 243 Squadron in July 1943 at Hal Far airfield
Deckhand DAWSON, Search and Rescue launch HSL 137, in August 1938, based at Royal Air Force Station Calafrana
Pilot Officer Richard John Secord DAWSON, J/16916, Royal Canadian Air Force, a Beaufort pilot with 39 Squadron. During a nighttime raid on enemy shipping taking supplies to North Africa, on 24th February 1943 his aircraft was shot down and all the crew perished in the sea. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Sub-Lieutenant R.N. DAWSON, Swordfish pilot. On 11th April 1941 whilst attacking an enemy convoy his aircraft was badly damaged by AA fire, and he was forced to crash land in Tunisia, near Hammamet, and was taken prisoner
T.J. DAWSON, Leading Airman, Fleet Air Arm, HMS St.Angelo, the Naval Shore Base, died 11th January 1943
Patricia DAY, baptised 21st February 1928 at St.Michaels Church, Calafrana by RAF Chaplain, the Reverend R.N. Shapley. The daughter of Evelyn and Sergeant George Walter Day, RAF Base Calafrana
Sergeant Patrick George Frederick DAY, 1309263, Royal Air Force (V.R.), a Beaufighter pilot with 227 Squadron. On 10th December 1942, he was on flying duty escorting a convoy approaching Malta, when his aircraft was shot down and he was killed along with his Navigator Sergeant Featherstone. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Sergeant A.H. DEACON, Hurricane pilot, arrived last week of January 1941. An ex-Battle of Britain pilot. On 11th April 1941 in a battle with German Messerschmitts his aircraft was badly damaged, he attempted to land at Ta Kali but ground fire prevented this, so he flew on to Hal Far. Though he landed successfully the undercarriage collapsed and he was slightly injured. He left Malta in a Hurricane for Mersa Matruh on 13th May 1941
Flight Sergeant Harry DEACON, a Beaufort pilot with 39 Squadron in January 1943
Sergeant W.M. DEAKIN, Beaufighter pilot with 272 Squadron. Reported missing 23rd July 1941
Sergeant A.B. DEAN, a Wellington pilot, with 458 Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force, in January 1943
Colonel Fred. M. DEAN, United States Air Force, appointed Commander of USAAF 231st Fighter Group, which comprised the 307th, 308th and 309th Fighter Squadrons, who arrived at Xewkija Aerodrome, Gozo, from Tunisia on 30th June 1943. It had been built by 21st Engineer Aviation Regiment, under the supervision of Captain Robert E. Sexton, between the 8th, and 20th June 1943
Giuseppe DEBONO, F54366, born March 1884, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 25th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Salvatore DEGUARA, F54284, born April 1886. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 5th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Vincenzo DEGUARA, F54380, born January 1887, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Flight Sergeant DE LARA, pilot with 249 Squadron in October 1942
Flying Officer C.T.H. DELCOUR, from Belgium, a Beaufighter pilot with 272 Squadron in November 1942
Sarah Demanin DEMAJO, RAF Fighter Control Room, Lascaris Bastion in 1942
Antonio De MARCO, born 19th September 1899. Served in the Royal Air Force during WWI, No.500661, Corporal. He later joined the King's Own Malta Regiment. He died 10th April 1964
Photo supplied by Daniel De Marco
Leading Aircraftsman Frederick James DEVERSON, aged 26 years, bachelor, RAF station Hal Far, the son of Ernest Alfred Deverson, married 19th September 1934 to, Kitty Doris CLEWER, aged 24 years, spinster, of 3 St.Catherines Road, Winchester, the daughter of Edward Clewer
Pilot Officer P.S.DEVINE, a Navigator, arrived in Malta 6th September 1940 to form 431 flight of Maryland reconnaissance aircraft. After arrival he was trained as a pilot
Pilot Officer Lawrence DEWHURST, a Beaufort pilot with 39 Squadron, shot down and killed together with all his crew on 24th August 1942
Sergeant L.J. DEXTER, a Hurricane pilot, arrived the last week of January 1941. On 4th June 1941 he left Malta for England
A.G. DICKENS, RAF, W.Op/Air Gunner, died 3rd/4th September 1948. Soon after midnight Friday/Saturday, 3rd/4th September 1948, while exercising with units of the British and United States fleets, a Royal Air Force Lancaster TX263Q, of 38 Squadron based at Luqa RAF Station, went missing. An extensive search was undertaken by the Royal Navy, in company with the United States carrier USS Kearsarge and seven United States destroyers, plus an Italian corvette. American and Italian aircraft also participated in the search. Lieutenant Commander Pridham Wippel R.N., piloting a Seafire from HMS Triumph, sighted wreckage on a hilltop on Monte Cristo island, 25 miles south of Elba. The aircraft carrier put a landing party ashore after the location of the wreckage had been confirmed, but found that there were no survivors. The bodies of the seven man crew were recovered, and buried at sea from the aircraft carrier HMS Triumph on the Sunday afternoon, 5th, with full military honour
Pilot Officer John Stuart DICKER, a Beaufighter Navigator with 227 Squadron. Whilst attacking enemy shipping on 17th September 1942, his aircraft was his and crashed into the sea, killing all the crew. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Pilot Officer E. DICKINSON, joined 126 Squadron in July 1941
Henry Baron Humphrey DICKINSON, 82889, Flight Lieutenant, R.A.F.V.R. When intense and almost continuous enemy air attacks on Malta commenced after 10th June 1940, he volunteered for special duties dealing with unexploded bombs. Often this involved him in high risk situations whilst attacks were in progress. He displayed great courage and leadership ability. He was awarded the George Medal in July 1942
Sergeant DICKSON, Hurricane pilot, with 1435 Squadron in December 1941
Miss DILLEY, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Keith Henry DIMMER, born 7th October 1938, the son of and May and Sergeant Frederick Henry Dimmer, RAF
J.L. DINSDALE, AM1, Fleet Air Arm, died 11th August 1942, on board the Aircraft Carrier, HMS Eagle. Whilst providing part of the escort for the ‘Pedestal’ Convoy, they came under attack by enemy aircraft, E-boats and submarines. About 1 p.m. his ship was hit on the port side by four torpedoes fired by the German U-boat U-73. The sea was calm, but as the ship keeled over, the Swordfish aircraft on the flight deck slid into the water, and the ship disappeared in a matter of about eight minutes. Some of the crew were rescued by other ships in the Fleet, but over 150 men lost their lives
Leading Aircraftsman Joseph DOCKERAY, aged 26 years, bachelor, RAF base Calafrana, the son of Joseph William Dockeray, married 5th September 1934 to, Rosemary CAMPBELL, aged 24 years, spinster, of Hallbank Gate, Cumberland, the daughter of Thomas Gibbons Campbell
Pilot Officer H.A. DODD, a Wellington pilot with 69 Squadron in January 1943
Sergeant Keith DONALD, 104 Squadron, Vickers Wellington. Six Wellingtons took off to bomb airfields in Sardinia. His was the last and failed to gain height, since the undercarriage was still down it struck a wall, causing the plane to crash, and all the crew were killed. 7th November 1942
Wing Commander Arthur DONALDSON, a pilot, was originally in charge of ground training at Ta Kali, but was put in command of three Spitfire Squadrons, 229, 249 and 185, in August 1942. On the 15th October whilst attacking some German Ju-88 aircraft he received direct hits that injured him and his engine cut out. Covered with blood and with two fingers severed from his shattered left hand, he managed to glide the aircraft back to Ta Kali and with the wheels up made a belly landing. He was quickly lifted out of the stricken plane and taken to Imtarfa hospital.
R. DONALDSON, AM2, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Pilot Officer Harry DONKERSLEY DFC+Bar, Royal Canadian Air Force. From Powell River, British Columbia. Wellington Bomber crew with 69 Squadron during 1942/1943. He was killed in January 1944 when his aircraft went missing whilst flying from Ottawa to Vancouver
Flying Officer N.A.R. DOUGHTY, a Hurricane pilot, took off from the deck of HMS Ark Royal on 27th April 1941, to bring additional aircraft to Malta. Retired from the Royal Air Force in 1958
Flying Officer J.H. DOUGLAS, Wellington pilot with 69 Squadron, in January 1943
Flight Lieutenant William DOUGLAS, pilot of a Spitfire that flew off the American Aircraft Carrier USS Wasp in April 1942 for Malta. Stationed Ta Kali, April 1942
Squadron Leader Lord David DOUGLAS-HAMILTON, pilot of a Spitfire that flew off the American Aircraft Carrier USS Wasp in April 1942 for Malta. Officer Commanding 603 Squadron in Summer 1942 at Ta Kali. On 20th July 1942 he was made acting Wing Commander and Assistant Station Commander at Ta Kali, so ceased flying operations and took over the responsibility of keeping the airfield operational. Died in the crash of a De Haviland Mosquito on 2nd August 1944
Dennis DOWDESWELL, aged 24 years, bachelor, Sergeant, Royal Air Force, RAF station Luqa, the son of Sidney Arthur Dowdeswell, married 17th November 1951, to Dorothy Joan TICKLING, aged 22 years, spinster, Leading Wren, the daughter of Thomas Henry Tickling
F. DOWDLES, AM2, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
John Noel DOWLAND George Cross, Wing-Commander, 33239, Royal Air Force, 69 Squadron, aged 27 years, the son of the Reverend Frank Michael Dowland and Irene Dowland, of Ruscombe Vicarage, Twyford, Berkshire. Died 13th January 1942. In February 1940, Squadron Leader Dowland succeeded in removing an enemy bomb from a steamship. The bomb was extremely difficult to inspect and handle as it was wedged with its nose penetrating through the main deck. In June 1940 this officer performed a similar duty on board a trawler with the same efficiency and promptitude. He has displayed conspicuous courage and devotion to duty in circumstances of exceptional danger and difficulty (London Gazette 7th January 1941). At the end of August 1941 he was made C.O. of 69 Squadron. On 21st November 1941 He was on a photographic mission over Sicily in a Hurricane, when he was attacked by six Italian fighters. He baled out into the sea and was picked up about an hour later by a Swordfish float-plane. Whilst on reconnaissance patrol 13th January 1942 the Martin Maryland he was piloting came under attack from German ME 109’s, and he crashed into the sea off Tigne Point. The Wireless Operator/Air Gunner Pilot Officer Robert Gridley also died. Pilot Officer Arnold Potter, the Observer, managed to bale out and survived
Flight Lieutenant Harold Hunter DOWN, aged 36 years, bachelor, RAF station Hal Far, the son of Thomas Down, married 30th July 1931 to, Noela Joyce O'FARRALL, aged 22 years, spinster, the daughter of Charles Henry Trevor O'Farrall
Leslie Clifford Joseph DRABBLE, R.A.F., of Llandudno, Wales, the son of Harry and Enda Drabble, married 27th April 1958, to Lucy De GIORGIO, the daughter of Joseph and Theresa De Giorgio
Reginald G. DRAKE, Sub-Lieutenant (A), attached to HMS Grebe, the Naval Air Station in Egypt, but operating from Malta. His aircraft piloted by Flight Sergeant Georges Blaize, a Frenchman, took off from Kalafrana at 00.05 on 22nd September 1941 on a spying mission, but was forced to land on the water about twenty miles from Malta. The rough sea broke up the aircraft and all the three man crew died. The body of Sub-Lieutenant Drake and the pilot were recovered from the sea the next day by a Swordfish floatplane. The body of Flight Sergeant R.Gatien, a Frenchman, the Gunner, was never found
Pilot Officer Alan S. DREDGE, a Hurricane pilot, took off from the deck of HMS Ark Royal on 27th April 1941, to bring additional aircraft to Malta. On 6th May 1941 in an engagement with German fighters he crashed in flames on the airfield and suffered severe burns. Though non-operational he was a member of 185 Squadron at Hal Far when it was formed on 12th May 1941. Not fully recovered from his wounds he returned to England in July 1941, and became a ‘Guinea Pig’ at Sir Archibald McIndoe’s burns unit
Flying Officer DREW, a Maryland pilot with 69 Squadron in August 1941
Sergeant J.B. DRURY, Blenheim pilot, crashed in the sea whilst attacking Argostoli harbour, 12th December 1941
Leading Aircraftsman T. DRURY-LOWE, 2718503, aged 20 years, from Horley, killed in an air crash 18th February 1956. See ALLBERRY for details
Giovanni DUCA, F54292, born July 1898. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 8th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Flying Officer K.L. DUBROMIRSKI,a Polish officer serving with the Royal Air Force, died in an aircrash 17th December 1942. See Major Lord A.A.B. APSLEY for details
Flight Lieutenant DUDLEY-POPE, RAF Controller at Luqa airfield, July 1942
Senior Aircraftsman T.G. DUMBILL, aged 20 years, from Litherland, Liverpool, killed in an air crash 18th February 1956. See ALLBERRY for details
Sergeant DUNCAN, from New Zealand. On board a Wellington of the Overseas Air Delivery Unit, which was shot down in flames about 90 miles from Kalafrana, on 15th November 1941. The aircraft ditched successfully and all on board transferred to a dinghy and were later picked up by Royal Air Force Search and Rescue launch HSL128
Flight Lieutenant Alfred L. DUNCAN, a Blenheim pilot with 105 Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield in July 1941
J.B. DUNCAN, Leading Airman, died 14th June 1942, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Argus, whilst escorting the Convoy ‘Harpoon’
Group Captain W.G.C. DUNCAN-SMITH DSO DFC, a Spitfire pilot, arrived in Malta May 1943 and took over Wing command consisting of 126 and 1435 Squadrons
Wing Commander H.S.L. DUNDAS DSO+ Bar DFC, arrived Hal Far airfield 9th June 1943 with the position of Wing Commander Flying
Sergeant DURANT, W.O./A.G., of a Martin Maryland aircraft of 69 Squadron, on 15th February 1942, having sighted 3 Italian Cruisers and 6 Italian Destroyers, decided to return to the base in Malta. The port engine failed, and they were attacked by German fighter aircraft that damaged the starboard wing and ailerons with cannon fire. The starboard window was shot away, the Gunner’s cockpit smashed, and the petrol tank was also hit. The aircraft went into a spin, but the pilot managed to gain control and get into some cloud cover. About 12 miles from the Maltese coast, they were attacked again by enemy aircraft and suffered machine gun fire which caused further damage, the instrument panel and even the pilot’s helmet and goggles were hit. The starboard engine stopped so the pilot had to ditch into the sea off Benghisa, and in the process part of the starboard wing and rudder fell off. Whilst other planes circled overhead a launch rescued the four man crew
Gordon John DURRANT, aged 30 years, bachelor, British Overseas Airways Traffic Official, the son of Christopher John Durrant retired, married 6th March 1947 to, Anne RONKSLEY, aged 31 years, spinster, Schoolmistress, the daughter of James William Ronksley
Flight Sergeant Rene DUVAUCHELLE, Free French, pilot of a Maryland aircraft, missing on 11th January 1941. With the fall of France, on 7th July 1940, he piloted his Aeronavale Escadrille 2HT floatplane to Malta, and joined 230 Squadron at Kalafrana
Bristol Beaufort Flight Lieutenant Peter EARLE, 44315, 138 Squadron, died in an aircrash 17th December 1942. See Major Lord A.A.B. APSLEY for details
Sergeant Herbert EARNEY, 104 Squadron, observer of Vickers Wellington. Six Wellingtons took off to bomb airfields in Sardinia. His was the last and failed to gain height, since the undercarriage was still down it struck a wall, causing the plane to crash, and all the crew were killed. 7th November 1942
Patricia Doreen Joan EAST, born 27th March 1929, the daughter of Amy Lucy and Sergeant Albert Alexander East, RAF base Calafrana. Baptised at St.Michaels Church Calafrana by the Reverend R.N.S.Shapley, RAF Chaplain
Sergeant Alan Frederick EASTMAN, 656752, Royal Air Force (V.R.). A Beaufort pilot with 39 Squadron. On 11th April 1943 whilst engaged on a mission to attack enemy shipping near Palermo, his aircraft was hit and crashed killing all the crew. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Sergeant D.E. EASTMAN, arrived September 1941 and joined 185 Squadron
Anthony ECKFORD, Commanding 242 Spitfire Squadron at Ta Kali airfield, June 1943
Sergeant Percy Luke EDLUND, a crew member of a Shackleton aircraft which crashed on 12th February 1954, killing all the men on board
Midshipman D.S. EDMONDSON, Swordfish pilot, 830 Squadron. Whilst attacking Augusta Harbour on 6th August 1940, his aircraft was shot down by AA fire and he was killed as well as his Telegraphist/Air Gunner
Flight Lieutenant E.G. EDMUNDS, a New Zealander, Blenheim pilot with 18 Squadron. On 28th November 1941 he led six Blenheims to attack shipping in Navarino Bay, off the Greek coast. With heavy rain causing bad visibility, and a barrage of gunfire from shore batteries and escorting destroyers they nevertheless hit the tanker Volturno. He was awarded the D.F.C. for this raid. He failed to return from a raid on Italy 11th December 1941
Air Commodore Hughie Idwal EDWARDS VC KCMG CB DSO OBE DFC KSTK Air Commodore Hughie Idwal EDWARDS VC KCMG CB DSO OBE DFC KSTK. born in Australia, he was the Commanding Officer of 105 Blenheim Squadron, and arrived at Luqa airfield in July 1941. He left Malta in mid-October for a publicity tour of the U.S.A. He was Australia’s most decorated airman, and died on 5th August 1982 at his home at Darling Point
Flight Sergeant Frank Gordon EDWARDS, aged 28 years, bachelor, the son of Frank George Edwards, married 11th August 1942 to, Betty Mary ROBINSON, aged 20 years, spinster, Royal Naval Cypherine, the daughter of Edward Victor Robinson
Corporal J.A. EDWARDS, 4091828, aged 33 years, from Cleobury Mortimer, Kidderminster, killed in an air crash on 18th February 1956. See ALLBERRY for details
Joyce Mary EDWARDS, born 21st December 1922, the daughter of Mary and Private Clifford Edwards, Royal Air Force
Pilot Officer M. D. EINHORN, pilot with 243 Squadron in July 1943 at Hal Far airfield
Pilot Officer Hugh W. ELIOT DFC. On 17th November 1940 at dawn he took off from the deck of the aircraft carrier HMS Argus for Malta. His aircraft was in the first wave consisting of six Hurricanes, of which two failed to arrive. From the second wave of six aircraft, none ever arrived at Malta, so it was presumed that they ran out of fuel and fell into the sea. On 12th May 1941, he was a member of 185 Squadron that was formed at Hal Far. Left Malta for England September 1941
Corporal Charles ELLERINGTON, Royal Air Force, died on board HMS Illustrious, 10th January 1941. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Edward Bertram William ELLIOTT, born 15th September 1933, the son of Elizabeth Frances and Flying Officer William John Bertram Elliott, RAF
John ELLIS, Wireless Op./Air Gunner with 69 Squadron in September 1942
Sergeant R.J.F. ELLIS, a Hurricane pilot, with 185 Squadron at Hal Far, early July 1941
Flight Sergeant Ernest James ELLISON, aged 28 years, bachelor, RAF base Calafrana, son of Ernest William Ellison, married 8th April 1929 to, Elsie Mary BROWN, aged 29 years, spinster, of Bloomfield, Sketty, Swansea, Wales, the daughter of Henry Brown
Sergeant Francis Richard EMERY, Hurricane pilot, arrived first week of June 1941. Whilst flying with 126 Squadron on 24th December 1941 he was shot down by enemy aircraft. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Sergeant Frederick A. ETCHELLS, Hurricane pilot with 249 Squadron, arrived on Malta 21st May 1941
Sergeant Geoffrey Halford ETHEREDGE, aged 26 years, bachelor, RAF base Calafrana, the son of Augustus Ernest Etheredge, married 22nd September 1934 to, Olive May PRIDDEY, aged 24 years, spinster, of 11 Burrish Street, Droitwich, the daughter of John Priddey
C.J. EVANS, Sub-Lieutenant, Fleet Air Arm, died 12th August 1942, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Victorious. Whilst escorting the ‘Pedestal’ Convoy his ship came under attack from enemy aircraft
Sergeant L.A. EVANS, a Gunner, with 39 Squadron. He took off on 3rd March 1943 on a daylight strike on enemy shipping, but shortly after take off whilst flying at low level the aircraft hit the water sank, killing the Pilot, Squadron Leader R.S. O. Marshall, as well as the Navigator and Wireless Operator. Evans survived the crash and was rescued by a RAF high speed launch
Squadron Leader Paul EVANS DFC, a Beaufighter pilot with 89 Squadron in April 1942
Lieutenant R. Clifford B. EVANS, South African Air Force, a Beaufort pilot with 39 Squadron. He was shot down and killed together with his crew whilst attacking enemy shipping in 6th September 1942. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Flight Sergeant P.G. EXTON, a Beaufort navigator with 39 Squadron. He was on an evening mission to attack enemy shipping on 12th March 1943, when just east of Sicily they were shot down. The pilot, Flying Officer A.M. Feast, with the Wireless Operator and the Gunner were picked up by the Italian corvette Persefone, but Flight Sergeant Exton was killed
Flying Officer John P. EYRE, a Beaufighter pilot of 227 Squadron was shot down on 20th August 1942 off Kalafrana Bay. He was rescued by high-speed launch but his Navigator Sergeant Leslie was killed
Short Sunderland I Flight Lieutenant Garnet Mackenzie FAIRBAIRN, Blenheim pilot, with 82 Squadron, shot down into the sea 27th May 1941 whilst attacking enemy convoy, with the loss of the whole crew. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Wing Commander J.S. FALL, relinquished the position of Station Commander at Hal Far airfield, on 29th August 1939
Miss Maria FALZON, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta from 1941 to 1944. Later Mrs Maria Warren, of Guardamangia
1st Lieutenant Edward FARDELLA, Spitfire pilot, 308 Squadron, USAAF, collided with the wreck of a Spitfire, at Gozo Airfield, July 1943, killing Leading Aircraftsman Ernie Nuttall and Leading Aircraftsman Jim Taylor, of 3231 RAF Servicing Commando Unit
Flight Sergeant George Pass FARGHER, Royal Canadian Air Force, with 227 Beaufighter Squadron. On 4th October 1942, whilst on a sortie against enemy shipping his aircraft lost power and crashed into the sea, and he was killed. His Navigator Pilot Officer Briffett survived and managed to remain in his dinghy until rescued by a RAF high-speed launch. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Philip Edward FARMER, 21 years, bachelor, Corporal, Royal Air Force, RAF Ta Kali, the son of Ernest Denis Farmer deceased, Chargehand, married April 1958 to Gwendoline Mary EVANS, 20 years, spinster, Clerk, the daughter of Clifford Charles Evans, Farmer
Wing Commander William R. FARNES, Senior Controller at Malta in summer 1942
Flight Sergeant FARQUARSON, Spitfire pilot with 603 Squadron in July 1942
Flying Officer S.M. FARRIES, Sunderland flying boat pilot, on 1st November 1940 left Kalafrana to search for the crew of a missing Wellington, but was attacked by Italian fighters and shot down. He died together with the other crew members
Frederick John FARROW, born 19th January 1925, the son of Myrtle and Sergeant Frederick Steadman Farrow, RAF Calafrana
Antonio FARRUGIA, F54275, born February 1895. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 5th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Dimitri FARRUGIA, F54276, born 30th August 1872. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 5th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Giovanni FARRUGIA, F54289, born October 1882. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 5th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Giuseppe FARRUGIA, F54328, born March 1879, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 22nd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Paulo FARRUGIA, F54303, born December 1882, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 21st March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Salvatore FARRUGIA, F54372, born June 1873, stonemason. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 25th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Aircraftsman J. FARRUGIA-GAY, 77725, serving at Kalafrana RAF Base, killed 8th May 1942
Corporal John S.E. FAWCETT, 4416734, aged 22 years, from Church Lawford, Rugby, killed in an air crash on 18th February 1956. See ALLBERRY for details
Flying Officer Arnold M. FEAST, a Beaufort pilot with 39 Squadron. He was on an evening mission to attack enemy shipping on 12th March 1943, when just east of Sicily they were shot down. Together with the Wireless Operator and the Gunner he was picked up by the Italian corvette Persefone, but the Navigator Flight Sergeant P.G.Exton lost his life
Flight Sergeant Francis William FEATHERSTONE, 1376514, Royal Air Force (V.R.). On 10th December 1942, he was on flying duty with 227 Squadron as Navigator in the Beaufighter, escorting a convoy approaching Malta, when his aircraft was shot down and he was killed along with his Pilot Sergeant P.G.F. Day. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Lieut-Commander Richard FELL, the son of David Fell, serving at Hal Far, Royal Navy Air Station, in November 1949
Pilot Officer Denyse FENECH, returned to Malta early 1954 after attending a course at Women’s Royal Air Force Depot, Hawkinge
Pilot Officer R.W. FERGUSON, interned by the Vichy French authorities in Tunisia, November 1940
Sergeant Colin FINLAY, Spitfire pilot with 185 Squadron, crashed into the sea off Wied Zurrieq, 14th May 1942. His body was recovered by men of the 3rd Battalion, King’s Own Malta Regiment
Sergeant C.V. FINLAY, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 605 Squadron
J. FINNIGAN, AF, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Sergeant FISHER, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield July 1941
H. FITZPATRICK, Leading Airman, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Leading Aircraftsman J.L. FITZPATRICK, 4080588, aged 21 years, from Manchester, killed in an air crash on 18th February 1956. See ALLBERRY for details
AC1 M.J. FLEMING, 4079838, aged 21 years, from Wexford, Ireland, killed in an air crash on 18th February 1956. See ALLBERRY for details
Captain Thomas B. FLEMING, 308 Fighter Squadron, United States Air Force, based at Xewkija Airfield, Gozo, killed 6th July 1943 in action over Sicily
Leading Aircraftsman William W. FLEMING, 4079955, aged 21 years, from Belfast, killed in an air crash on 18th February 1956. See ALLBERRY for details
Squadron Leader Andrew W. FLETCHER, with 272 Squadron in July 1941
Pilot Officer John FLETCHER, 185 Squadron, died 28th April 1942. He had been attacking a large formation of German bombers with fighter escort, when his aircraft was badly damaged. Whilst baling out he deployed his parachute too soon, and the canopy caught upon the tail plane, it tore free, and he fell to his death.
Sergeant J.W.S. FLETCHER, Royal Canadian Air Force, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 605 Squadron
Mrs M. FLETCHER BEM, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Sergeant Adam H. FLETT, Observer with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield in July 1941
Leslie Ralph FLOWER, aged 22 years, bachelor, Leading Aircraftsman, Royal Air Force, RAF station Kalafrana, the son of John Sherman Flower, married 18th April 1938, to Audrey Ellen ECKETT, aged 24 years, spinster, Dancing Mistress, the daughter of Thomas William Eckett
Leading Aircraftsman W.T. FLOWER, 1010834, serving at Kalafrana RAF Base, killed 26th April 1942
Flying Officer John Alexander Charles FORBES, crew member of Royal Air Force flying boat K.3595 that crashed on a hillside near Messina Sicily, killing all on board, 15th February 1935. The plane was flying from Naples to the RAF Base at Calafrana, en route to Singapore
Ann Florence FORBES BENTLEY, born 7th November 1925, the daughter of Ruth Harriett and Rupert Forbes Bentley, Flight Lieutenant, RAF, retired (twin)
Gwendolen FORBES BENTLEY, born 7th November 1925, the daughter of Ruth Harriett and Rupert Forbes Bentley, Flight Lieutenant, RAF, retired (twin)
Margaret Harriett FORBES BENTLEY, born 14th October 1924, the daughter of Ruth Harriett and Rupert Forbes Bentley, Flight Lieutenant, R.A.F. retired
Captain K.L. FORD, of 830 Squadron, took over No.431 Reconnaissance Flight on 14th September 1940
Sub-Lieutenant A.J. FORDE, a Swordfish pilot with the Fleet Air Arm, in the first wave of attackers on the Italian Fleet anchored in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940
Jack FORDYCE, aged 21 years, bachelor, Engine Fitter, Royal Australian Air Force, R.A.A.F. Ta Qali, the son of William James Fordyce, married 30th October 1953, to Amanda Patricia MORLEY, aged 17 years, spinster, the daughter of Healey Alfred Morley
Philip Edward FORRESTER, Sergeant, 740529, Pilot, was a crew member of the Wellington bomber R1094. About half an hour before midnight on the 3rd November 1940 a Flight of Wellington bombers prepared to take off from Luqa airfield each carrying a full load of bombs on a mission to attack the city of Naples.
The fourth aircraft (R1094) lost height soon after take off and crashed onto the roof of a house at Dun Mario Street, Qormi, bursting into flames, and also setting the house on fire. The house was on the edge of a quarry and part of the burning aircraft fell into the quarry, carrying with it some of the crew.
Rescue workers heard moaning from below and when volunteers were called for to go down into the blazing wreckage Police Constable Carmel Camilleri put himself forward. He was lowered into the quarry and saw that two men were dead but managed to tie a rope around the badly injured Sergeant Arthur Smith who was hauled up to safety, but did not survive his ordeal.
For his bravery No.347 PC Carmel Camilleri was awarded the George Medal. Three other crew members lost their lives that night, Sergeant David Rawlings, Sergeant Arthur Smith, and Sergeant Thomas Woor, as well as two civilians, Fredu Agius and his wife Dolores who lived in the house with their children.
One Royal Air Force man survived, Sergeant Douglas Palmer, and the couple's five children who were asleep in another bedroom were rescued. About half an hour earlier Wellington T2743 from the same Flight also failed to gain height and crashed shortly after take off
Remains of the Wellington bomber and houses in Qormi 4th November 1940
Pilot Officer Paul FORSTER, Spitfire pilot with 603 Squadron in May 1942
Sergeant Alfred James FORTH, a Hurricane pilot, with 185 Squadron at Hal Far, early July 1941. During an attack on a group of twenty-four enemy aircraft arriving over Malta in the afternoon of 29th December 1941, his aircraft crashed and he was killed
Pilot Officer FOSTER, took over command of 69 Squadron in May 1942, based at Luqa airfield until August 1942
Sergeant Reginald FOWLER, a member of the Malta Night Fighter Unit when it was formed at Ta Kali in July 1941
Flight Sergeant R.J. FOWLER, with 126 Squadron September 1941. A member of 1435 Squadron when it was formed in December 1941
Sergeant Harry FOX, W.Op/Air Gunner, in a Vickers Wellington engaged in two sorties against Comiso aerodrome. During the second attack his plane was damaged by flak, but arrived back over Malta and crashed near Luqa, 13th August 1942. He died in the crash, the other four survived but sustained injuries
Flying Officer James Henry Terence FOXTON, 41575, arrived in Malta 6th September 1940 to form 431 Flight, pilot of Maryland reconnaissance aircraft. He transferred to 261 Squadron to fly Hurricanes during second half of January 1941. On 22nd March 1941 he was shot down in the sea. His body was not recovered. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Giorgio FRANCIKA, F54362, born December 1884, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 21st March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Flying Officer G. FRANCIS, appointed Commanding Officer of Station Flight at Hal Far airfield, 27th March 1931
Reginald Frederick FRANCIS, Flying Officer, Royal Air Force, died 5th June 1930, aged 31 years. Killed whilst flying
Sergeant Ford John FRANKLIN, 412219, Royal New Zealand Air Force, from Bay View, Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand. A Beaufighter pilot with 227 Squadron operating from Ta Kali. On 18th December 1942 he was sent out with other Beaufighters to escort a convoy into Malta, but encountered enemy aircraft who shot him down into the sea. He was killed as well as his navigator Pilot Officer Colin C.MacColl. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Flight Lieutenant Donald I. FRASER, from Australia, a Beaufort pilot with 39 Squadron. On 17th March 1943 whilst attacking enemy shipping his aircraft was shot down by a German fighter, and crashed into the sea. The four crew members survived and were picked up by the Italian Vas 221 and taken as Prisoners-of-War
Sub-Lieutenant I.F. FRASER, Fleet Air Arm, pilot of Bristol Beaufighter which arrived from England via Gibraltar on 1st May 1941, with twelve others
Sergeant W. FRASER, a Wellington pilot with 221 Squadron in February 1943
Flying Officer F.E. FRAYN, Adjutant, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield July 1941
Sergeant D.W. FRAZER, a Beaufighter pilot of 272 Squadron. Just before midday on 17th March 1943 he took off on a mission to attack enemy shipping, but about five minutes later the aircraft developed engine trouble and he had to ditch in the sea just off the Maltese coast. He was picked up together with the navigator, within fifteen minutes
Pilot Officer Tom St.B. FREER, a Beaufighter pilot with 227 Squadron in 1942. On 14th October 1942 whilst attacking the German merchant ship Trapani off the North African coast his aircraft was badly damaged by enemy fire, but he managed to return to Luqa and made a crash landing
Flight Lieutenant A. Derek FRECKER, a Beaufighter pilot, with 252 Squadron in August 1941
Antonio FRENDO, F54344, born March 1875, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 22nd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Francisco FRENDO, F54301, born November 1884, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 21st March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Giuseppe FRENDO, F54307, born March 1879, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 21st March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Lionel Francis FRY, Royal Air Force, RAF Luqa, the son of Henry Arthur and Dora Fry, nee Warrott, married 2nd April 1960 to Margaret Rose FLOWERS, W.R.N.S., Whitehall Mansions, Ta Xbiex, the daughter of Charles David and Margaret Flowers, nee O'Neill
Sergeant John FULLALOVE, Hurricane pilot with 229 Squadron. About 37 JU-88’s escorted by about 34 Messerschmitts were carrying out a raid on 21st April 1942. In the resultant attack he was shot down
Hawker Hurricanes Wing Commander M. Larry GAINE, a Beaufort pilot, took command of 39 Squadron in September 1942
Giorgio GALEA, F34302, born May 1878. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 21st March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Giuseppe GALEA, F54274, born August 1892. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 5th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Giuseppe GALEA, F54363, born December 1870, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 25th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Joseph GALEA, of Birkirkara. He retired in 1958 after working with the British services since 1916. He joined the Royal Air Force in 1918 as an Airman and remained until 1921. In 1923 he obtained a job with the British services, and in 1929 re-joined the Royal Air Force as a civilian. In March 1958 having reached the age of 65 years he retired from his employment by the RAF. At a short ceremony at Air Headquarters, Air Marshal C.E. Chilton, Air Officer Commanding, Malta, decorated him with the Imperial Service Medal
David GALLON, Leading Aircraftsman, aged 20 years, from North Shields, died in an accident at RAF Luqa, April 1956
Giuseppe GAMBIN, F54388, born February 1895, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Sergeant W.N. GARDNER, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 242 Squadron
Flight Sergeant L.T. GARLAND, a Beaufort pilot with 39 Squadron in February 1943
Pilot Officer Thomas Benjamin GARLAND, 79565, Hurricane pilot, arrived 17th March to join 261 Squadron, shot down into the sea, 22nd March 1941. His body was not recovered. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Lieutenant GARNETT, Royal Naval Air Service, pilot of a Sopwith 808 on 14th February 1915. Whilst taxiing to take off in Grand Harbour the left float of his aircraft struck the top of a wave which tore it off and at the same time turned the plane over into the water. He was rescued along with his passenger
Flight Lieutenant GARSIDE, Sunderland flying boat pilot, July 1940
D.C. GARTON-STONE, Lieutenant (A), Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Flight Sergeant R. GATIEN, a Frenchman. His aircraft piloted by Flight Sergeant Georges Blaize, a Frenchman, took off from Kalafrana at 00.05 on 22nd September 1941 on a spying mission, but was forced to land on the water about twenty miles from Malta. The rough sea broke up the aircraft and all the three man crew died. The bodies of the pilot and Sub-Lieutenant Drake, the Observer, were recovered from the sea the next day by a Swordfish floatplane. The body of Flight Sergeant Gatien, was never found
Miss Helen GAUCHI, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Vincenzo GAUCI, F54400, born August 1880, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 27th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Wing Commander J.R.N. GAYNOR, became Station Commander at Luqa Royal Air Force base, 1st July 1944
Flight-Sergeant H.F. GEORGE, 531122, aged 42 years, from Head’s Nook, Carlisle, killed in an air crash on 18th February 1956. See ALLBERRY for details
Robert William GERAGHTY, aged 26 years, bachelor, Electrical Fitter, Royal Australian Air Force, R.A.A.F. Ta Qali, the son of James Geraghty, married 24th October 1953, to Margaret Louise BUBEN, aged 21 years, spinster, Shorthand Typist, the daughter of Frank Buben
Angelo GERSCI, F54345, born March 1885, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 23rd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Leading Telegraphist GIBBS, died 22nd October 1922, when his Aero Bison aircraft crashed into the sea, about five miles off Malta, killing all the crew
Wing Commander R. Patrick GIBBS DFC+Bar, became Commanding Officer of 39 Beaufort Squadron at Luqa Royal Air Force base on 20th August 1942
Corporal GIBSON, RAF Fighter Control Room, Lascaris Bastion, in 1942
Sergeant Henry GIBSON, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield July 1941
Pilot Officer GIDDINGS, pilot with 249 Squadron in October 1942
Reverend Alan Stanley GILES, Chaplain in Chief RAF, 1955
Eugene Albert GILKES, aged 21 years, bachelor, R.A.F. Ta Kali, the son of Lewis Albert Benjamin Gilkes deceased, married 22nd September 1961 to, Noelita DOUEN, aged 23 years, spinster, the daughter of Charles Douen. The Marriage took place at St.Luke’s Chapel, Bighi Royal Naval Hospital
Joseph William GILL, 35 years, bachelor, Wireless Operator, Royal Air Force, RAF Siggiewi, the son of Joseph Nathaniel Gill, Salvation Army Mission, married 8th August 1959 to Daisy Aurora JOHNSON, 28 years, spinster, Nurse, the daughter of Joseph Eugene Johnson, Contractor
Sergeant S. GILL, Overseas Aircraft Delivery Unit, Air Gunner of a Bristol Beaufort, shortly after take off to deliver the aircraft to the Middle East, it developed engine trouble and so it was decided to return to Malta. Unable to maintain height when the port engine failed, successfully ditched into the sea, 21st August 1942. The crew managed to get into the dinghy and were rescued by HSL 128 shortly after
Flight Sergeant Ewen GILLIES, Beaufort pilot of 39 Squadron in January 1943. He remained in the Royal Air Force after WWII and retired as a Squadron Leader
Sergeant Frank GILLIONS, RAF, Photo Reconnaissance Unit, Luqa, June 1942. From New Zealand, his aircraft developed engine failure over Sicily in September 1942, he landed and was taken Prisoner-of-War
Sergeant Ronald GILLMAN, a Blenheim pilot with 107 Squadron in October 1941
Group Captain G.K. GILROY DSO DFC+Bar, arrived at Hal Far airfield 9th June 1943, to command the ground crews
J.F.X. GILSON, AM1, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
G. C. GLANVILLE, 582610, Sergeant, Royal Air Force, aged 23 years. A Lancaster of 37 Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance Squadron crashed at Luqa on 30th December 1952. The crew were all Royal Air Force Sergeants, one was killed instantly in the crash, and two others later died in hospital from their injuries. The accident happened mid morning during local flying and landing exercises. The Lancaster took off from the airfield with its port inner engine cutting out intermittently. On the take off run the faulty engine is believed to have cut completely. The pilot attempted to bring his aircraft round on 3 engines to land again but the Lancaster by now was flying beneath its minimum safety height and came down on Luqa village. It crashed in a giant cartwheel across St. George's Street, Luqa, into three houses going up in a sheet of flame as it finally crashed into a row of back gardens. The three men who lost their lives were Sergeant Wilfred Morris, Sergeant G. C. Glanville and Sergeant J. Logan. The Sergeants Morris and Glanville were buried in Imtarfa Military cemetery and the body of Sergeant Logan was taken back to England
Pilot Officer GLAZEBROOK, Spitfire pilot with 603 Squadron in June 1942
Flying Officer Albert GLAZER DFC, from Canada, Ground Radar, at Luqa airfield in November 1941
Pilot Officer GLEN, Spitfire pilot with 603 Squadron in July 1942
Flight Sergeant Patrick Neil GOALBY, 964652, Royal Air Force (V.R.), a member of 227 Beaufighter Squadron. Whilst on flying duty his aircraft was shot down and he died 6th January 1943. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Leading Aircraftsman Clifford James Zachariah GODDARD, Royal Air Force, died on board HMS Illustrious, 10th January 1941. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Richard Edwin GODWIN, 23 years, bachelor, Corporal, Royal Air Force, RAF Ta Kali, the son of Cyril Godwin deceased, Serviceman, married 10th December 1960 to Lorraine Edwards Begbie LUMSDEN, 20 years, spinster, Leading Wren, Whitehall Mansions, Ta Xbiex, the daughter of Douglas Edward Lumsden, Bus Driver
Flight Sergeant Wilfred Oswell GOFF, 1257891, Royal Air Force (V.R.), a member of 227 Squadron. His Beaufighter was shot down in combat and he was killed on 31st January 1943. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Lieutenant G.R.M. GOING, Fleet Air Arm, Swordfish Observer on HMS Illustrious. His aircraft was damaged before take off in the attack on Italian warships in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940. The fitters and riggers managed to repair the damage so that they took off about a half an hour after the others
1st Lieutenant August GOLDENBERG, 307 Fighter Squadron, United States Air Force, based at Xewkija Airfield, Gozo, failed to return from a mission 11th July 1943
Pilot Officer Adrian Philip GOLDSMITH DFC DFM, Royal Australian Air Force, fighter pilot with 126 Squadron. Died 25th March 1961
Squadron Leader George E. GOODE DFC, a Blenheim pilot with 105 Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield in July 1941. On 11th August 1941 he took off for a raid on the chemical factory at Crotone, Italy, with Sergeant Nichols as Observer, and Pilot Officer E.W. Applebee as Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. After making a strike one bomb remained stuck in the aircraft. They turned and tried to shake the bomb off, but were hit in the port engine as they flew over the port. He realised that a crash landing was imminent so gained enough height to pass over the cliffs at Cappo delle Colonna, and landed in a field dead ahead. The three crewmen tried to destroy the aircraft but were captured by Italian soldiers before this could be achieved. They were also very concerned that the unexploded bomb could go off at any moment, so were relieved when they were taken away by an Italian Navy Captain
Sergeant Reginald J. GOODE, Hurricane pilot with 274 Squadron attached to 261 Squadron. On 28th March 1941 whilst airborne his aircraft was attacked by enemy planes, causing him to make a forced landing near Ghain Tuffieha, during which the tail section broke off. He had shrapnel wounds in his back and neck. On 4th June 1941 he left Malta for England
Emrys GOODFELLOW, 1167272, Sergeant, No. 37 Squadron, R.A.F., Air Observer, killed on 8th March 1942. In the dark the Wellington bomber D.V. 483 of which he was a crew member, was just taking off from the runway at Luqa RAF Station when it collided with Wellington bomber Z.9038 which was taxiing down the same runway in the opposite direction. Both aircraft burst into flames and rescue attempts were hampered by exploding bombs and mines which had been fitted to both aircraft
Lieutenant D.G. GOODWIN, Fleet Air Arm, Swordfish Observer, on HMS Illustrious and in the first wave of attackers on the Italian Fleet anchored in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940
Sergeant D.F. GOURLAY, Gunner on Beaufort aircraft of 39 Squadron in January 1943
Corporal Robert John GOVAN, aged 29 years, bachelor, RAF, HMS Sussex, the son of Robert Govan, married 20th January 1938 to, Ivy Dorothy Cecilia MILLETT, aged 28 years, spinster, of 90 Windsor Road, Southsea, the daughter of Edwin Joseph Millett
Sergeant GRACEY, a Blenheim Pilot with 107 Squadron, missing after attacking enemy shipping in Argostoli Harbour 13th December 1941
Wing Commander E.J. GRACIE, pilot of a Spitfire that flew off the American Aircraft Carrier USS Wasp in April 1942 for Malta. Took over command at Ta Kali at the end of April 1942. He was killed in action 15th February 1944
Clifton Winnington GRANNUM, aged 26 years, bachelor, Flying Officer, Royal Air Force, RAF Calafrana, the son of Reginald Clifton Grannum, married 1st February 1933 to, Kathleen Mary BROOKS, aged 21 years, spinster, the daughter of Howard Vincent Brooks
Sergeant Charles M. GRANT, from Edinburgh, a Navigator with 39 Beaufort Squadron in September 1942. Whilst attacking enemy shipping off the coast of Corfu on 6th September 1942 his aircraft was damaged by enemy fighters. The Wireless Operator, Sergeant McIllaney and the Air Gunner, Sergeant Tester, were both wounded by shrapnel. He gave them First Aid to stop the bleeding and took over the Vickers gun to ward off further attacks. The plane had been hit in the hydraulics, flaps, tail assembly and turret, but the pilot Flight Sergeant Watlington, managed to fly it back to Luqa and made a safe landing
Pilot Officer J.G.M. GRANT, from New Zealand, a Hurricane pilot, arrived first week of June 1941. A member of the Malta Night Fighter Unit when it was formed at Ta Kali in July 1941
K.G. GRANT, Sub-Lieutenant (A), RNVR, Fleet Air Arm, a Fulmar pilot, died 25th July 1941, when his aircraft was shot down by an Italian fighter
Flying Officer Ken R. GRANT, a Beaufort pilot with 39 Squadron in August 1942
Wing Commander Stanley Bernard GRANT DFC+Bar, in April 1942 was Commanding Officer of 249 Squadron at Ta Kali airfield
Sub-Lieutenant W.E. GRANT, pilot of a Swordfish of 830 Squadron. Failed to return from a raid on Tripoli 18th March 1941
J.E. GRANTHAM, AA4, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Pilot Officer R.C. GRAVES, a Hurricane pilot, took off from the deck of HMS Ark Royal on 27th April 1941, to bring additional aircraft to Malta
Sergeant B. GRAY BFM, 537006, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, with 105 Blenheim Squadron at Luqa Airfield. On 22nd September 1941 he was with five other Blenheims attacking German Barracks on the North African Coast when in a tight turn he flew too close beneath another Blenheim which resulted in the propellers of the upper plane scything through the fuselage of his aircraft, which crashed killing all the crew. The other aircraft piloted by Sergeant Williams also sustained considerable damage and had to be nursed on a nerve-wracking 218-mile flight back to Luqa. The other two crew members, the pilot Wing Commander Scivier, and Flight Sergeant Barnett the Observer, also lost their lives
Pilot Officer C.K. GRAY, a Hurricane pilot joined 261 Squadron, first week of March 1941. On 6th May 1941 in a battle with German fighters his aircraft was badly damaged, and he was forced to bale out though suffering from a wound in his left thigh. Though non-operational he was a member of 185 Squadron when it was formed at Hal Far on 12th May 1941. Retired from the Royal Air Force in 1963
Group Captain Colin GRAY DSO DFC, arrived at Ta Kali airfield from North Africa on 4th June 1943 as Wing Commander Flying 322 Wing
F.L.A. GRAY, AA4, Fleet Air Arm, died 15th August 1942, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Indomitable. His ship was part of the escort for Operation ‘Pedestal’ from Gibraltar. In the late afternoon of the 12th August, twelve German Ju-87 aircraft attacked the carrier and she suffered serious damage from the bombs. One hit the forward AA gun positions killing more than twenty of the Royal Marines detachment. Another landed near the forward lift and penetrated the upper gallery deck and exploded above the main hangar deck. The wardroom was crowded with off-duty pilots and observers when it was wrecked by a bomb killing all the occupants. The ship survived the onslaught and headed for Gibraltar
John George GRAY, aged 22 years, bachelor, Signaller Royal Air Force, RAF station Safi, the son of John Alfred Gray, married 3rd September 1947, to Irene Joan OLIVER, aged 21 years, spinster, Women’s Royal Naval Service, the daughter of Frederick William Oliver
Mrs GRAY, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Angelo GRECH, F54364, born January 1900, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 25th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Salvatore GRECH, F54288, born July 1873. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 5th March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Squadron Leader Wyndham Levy GRECH, obtained his aviator’s certificate on 19th July 1916. He had joined the Army in March as 2nd Lieutenant, but transferred to the newly formed Royal Flying Corps. During World War I he was involved in combat in the skies over France. With the outbreak of the World War II he joined the Royal Air Force, and for a time served as adjutant at Luqa RAF Station. He was born in 1890, the son of Mr and Mrs T. Levy Grech of Valletta, and having graduated from the University of Malta in 1913 as a Doctor of Laws, followed a legal career between the wars. He died in Malta in 1956
Miss GRECH, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Flying Officer G.H. GREEN, Wellington bomber pilot with 148 Squadron failed to return from a bombing raid on Tripoli, 24th February 1941
Sub-Lieutenant R.A. GREEN, a Swordfish Observer with the Fleet Air Arm. Took off from HMS Illustrious in the second wave for the attack on Taranto Harbour on 11th November 1940, but a fault developed with his aircraft and they had to return. As they were not expected they were fired upon on the first approach and had to re-signal before landing safely on the deck
Sergeant GREEN, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield July 1941
Roger Martin GREEN, 21+, Senior Aircraftsman, the son of Raymond Green, married 9th September 1969 to, Maureen Daphne PARKE, 21+, spinster, the daughter of William Parke, at St.Christopher’s Station Church, Luqa Aerodrome. The ceremony was performed by the Reverend Peter Owen Winfield Levingston, RAF Chaplain.
Squadron Leader John GREENHALGH, Hurricane pilot, flew his plane off the deck of HMS Argus on 2nd August 1940, and landed at Luqa to increase the number of aircraft to defend the island. In December 1940 posted from 261 Squadron to Air HQ in Valletta in August 1941. Retired from the Royal Air Force in 1953
Sergeant W.D. GREENHALGH, Hurricane pilot, arrived July 1941 and joined 126 Squadron. On 24th November 1941 whilst attacking Comiso airfield, his aircraft crash-landed and he was taken prisoner
Flying Officer C. GREENHILL, Blenheim Pilot with 107 Squadron in August 1941
Flying Officer Ronald Arthur GREENHILL, Blenheim pilot with 107 Squadron. Whilst attacking shipping in the Gulf of Sirte his aircraft was shot down into the sea, 11th October 1941. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
E.A. GREENWOOD DSC, Lieutenant, Fleet Air Arm, HMS St.Angelo, the Naval Shore Base, died 18th December 1941
Squadron Leader A.D. GREER, Royal New Zealand Air Force. Wellington pilot with 40 Squadron, failed to return from a nighttime raid by Wellingtons on Naples, 11th November 1941
T.H. GREET, Sub-Lieutenant (A), RNVR, attached to HMS Grebe the Naval Air Station in Egypt, but operating from Malta. Died 2nd March 1942
Pilot Officer C.E. GREGORY, pilot with 243 Squadron at Hal Far airfield in July 1943
P.M. GREGORY, Lieutenant, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Sergeant R.V. GRIDLEY, W.Op/Air Gunner, of a Maryland aircraft that arrived in Malta 6th September 1940 to form 431 flight of reconnaissance
Pilot Officer Robert GRIDLEY, 69 Squadron, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner. Whilst on reconnaissance patrol 13th January 1943 his Martin Maryland aircraft came under attack from German ME 109’s, and it crashed into the sea off Tigne. He was killed as well as the pilot Wing Commander John Dowland GC. His Maltese wife was pregnant, and gave birth shortly after his death. Pilot Officer Arnold Potter, the Observer, managed to bale out and survived. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Lieutenant K.C. GRIEVE, Fleet Air Arm, Swordfish Observer, on HMS Illustrious and in the first wave of attackers on the Italian Fleet anchored in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940
Sergeant R.E. GRIFFIN, Observer with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield in July 1941
Sergeant GRIFFITH, Overseas Aircraft Delivery Unit, Navigator of a Bristol Beaufort, shortly after take off to deliver the aircraft to the Middle East, it developed engine trouble and so it was decided to return to Malta. Unable to maintain height when the port engine failed, successfully ditched into the sea, 21st August 1942. The crew managed to get into the dinghy and were rescued by HSL 128 shortly after
Arthur Stephen GRIFFITH, Mentioned in Despatches, Sub-Lieutenant, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Flight Sergeant F.C. GRIFFITHS, a Blenheim pilot with 18 Squadron. His aircraft failed to return from a reconnaissance mission, 22nd December 1941
Wing Commander J.F. GRIFFITHS, became Station Commander at Hal Far airfield at the end of May 1942
K.D. GRIFFITHS, Leading Airman, Telegraphist/Air Gunner, Fleet Air Arm, HMS St.Angelo, the Naval Shore Base. He took off in a Swordfish on 11th November 1941 to search for an enemy convoy off Pantelleria, but without success. Due to lack of fuel the aircraft was forced to ditch into the sea off Sicily, but he was killed in the process along with his pilot Lieutenant A.F. Wigram
Mrs Lilian GRIFFITHS, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Leading Aircraftsman Thomas P. GRIFFITHS, 95947, serving at Kalafrana RAF Base, killed 4th February 1942. Crew of the Rescue Launch HSL129. They left Kalafrana late afternoon 4th February 1942 and were attacked by enemy aircraft off Benghisa Point. Aircraftsman Gerry R. King was in the forward gun turret and was killed by a wound to his head. Flying Officer Nicholls, the Skipper, was hit in the stomach and collapsed in the wheelhouse. First Coxswain Corporal Theo Nielsen, was killed at the helm. Corporal Cooper, the 2nd Coxswain had his left hand shattered by a cannon shell but managed to take the wheel. Leading Aircraftsman Griffiths, in the rear gun turret was severely wounded, and later died. Also wounded were Dennis Whittaker, Aircraftsman 2nd Class Norton, and the Wireless Operator Jock Muir. The launch arrived back at Kalafrana, but its condition and the deaths of crew members appalled the whole base. It was taken up the slipway for repairs. Sergeant Lord, 1st Fitter, went to hospital for a check-up, before returning to commence carrying out the repairs
Miss GRIMSTEAD, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Flight Lieutenant G.E. GRUWYS, pilot with 243 Squadron at Hal Far airfield in July 1943
Sergeant Maurice GUEST, Hurricane pilot with 249 Squadron, arrived on Malta 21st May 1941. Shot down by Italian fighters, and died 17th July 1941. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Pilot Officer James GUTHRIE, Spitfire pilot, 185 Squadron. As a result of a dogfight with German fighters he crashed in a field on the outskirts of Zebbieh, in the afternoon of 2nd August 1942
Henry James Austin GUTRIDGE, aged 25 years, bachelor, Flight Lieutenant, Royal Air Force, RAF HQ, the son of Michael Henry Gutridge, married 4th September 1943, to Sheila Marjorie SMITH, aged 20 years, spinster, Royal Air Force Cypherine, 28 Stella Maris Street, Sliema, the daughter of John Herbert Smith
W. GUY, Sub-Lieutenant (A), RNVR, Fleet Air Arm, HMS St.Angelo, the Naval Shore Base, died 2nd December 1942
Bristol Blenheim
Sergeant Thomas HACKSTON, 967109, Hurricane pilot, arrived first week of June 1941. Joined 126 Squadron. On 4th July 1941 he took off from Safi airfield, but due to reasons unknown he crashed into the sea and was killed. His body was never recovered. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Joyce HADLEY, baptised 8th January 1928, the daughter of Ivy Gertrude and Sergeant Victor Hadley, of Calafrana Air Force Base
Pilot Officer J.H.S. HAIG, a Hurricane pilot, took off from the deck of HMS Ark Royal on 27th April 1941, to bring additional aircraft to Malta
Flying Officer HAILSTONE, from Canada, a Wellington pilot with 458 Royal Australian Air Force Squadron in April 1943
Flight Sergeant Charles George Duval HAINS, 400888, Royal Australian Air Force from Surrey Hills, Victoria, Australia. A Beaufighter pilot with 272 Squadron. On 11th December 1942, he was with five other Beaufighters which encountered German Ju-52’s and ME 109’s and in the ensuing combat his aircraft was shot down and he was killed along with his navigator, Sergeant Dennys C.Lawton. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
J. HAKE, Petty Officer Airman, Fleet Air Arm, died 11th August 1942, on board the Aircraft Carrier, HMS Eagle. Whilst providing part of the escort for the ‘Pedestal’ Convoy, they came under attack by enemy aircraft, E-boats and submarines. About 1 p.m. his ship was hit on the port side by four torpedoes fired by the German U-boat U-73. The sea was calm, but as the ship keeled over, the Swordfish aircraft on the flight deck slid into the water, and the ship disappeared in a matter of about eight minutes. Some of the crew were rescued by other ships in the Fleet, but over 150 men lost their lives
Arthur John Henry HALE, 543864, Leading Aircraftman. He was employed as a member of the airfield clearance party at Malta airfield for several months. He performed his duties with the greatest zeal, often displaying complete disregard for his personal safety when clearing runways whilst enemy attacks on the airfield were still in progress. For his bravery he was awarded the British Empire Medal in December 1942
Sergeant H. HALE, Royal Canadian Air Force, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 242 Squadron
Lieutenant-Commander J.W. HALE, of 819 Squadron, Fleet Air Arm, Swordfish pilot on HMS Illustrious and led the second wave of attackers on the Italian Fleet anchored in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940
Walter Thomas Stanley HALE, aged 26 years, bachelor, Aircraftsman, Royal Air Force, R.A.F. station Kalafrana, the son of Walter George Hale, married 14th November 1938, to Ellen Mary JOSEY, aged 34 years, spinster, Lady’s Maid, 6 Lower Ward, Windsor Castle, the daughter of Ernest Arthur William Josey
Sergeant Allan H. HALEY, Royal Australian Air Force, joined 126 Squadron in July 1941. On 8th November 1941 whilst engaged in attacking an Italian bomber his aircraft was attacked by an Italian fighter. The two planes collided head on and disintegrated he managed to bale out from the spinning fuselage at around 20,000 feet and parachuted over a village, landing on a flat roof
Pilot Officer John HALFORD, Spitfire pilot, 185 Squadron, shot down whilst attacking Italian bombers with fighter escort. Crashed in the sea off Marsaxlokk, and rescued, 12th June 1942
Lieutenant A.F. HALL, Swordfish pilot with 830 Squadron. On 6th August 1940 carried out an attack on Augusta Harbour, was hit by AA fire but managed to return close to Malta before ditching in the sea. The crew took to their dinghy and were soon rescued
Daphne Ann Pauline HALL, born 13th October 1923, the daughter of Sybil Grace and Sergeant Arthur Frank Hall, of RAF Calafrana.
Donald Anthony Gerald HALL, born 26th October 1925, the son of Sybil Grace and Sergeant Arthur Frank Hall, of RAF Calafrana
Flying Officer Douglas HALL, Royal Australian Air Force, serving in Malta December 1943
Sergeant G.C. HALL, Wellington pilot with 148 Squadron. On 12th January 1941 took part in a nighttime raid to bomb airfields in the Catania area. On returning to Malta his damaged aircraft crashed, he died of his wounds, as did two other crew members
Air Commodore H.D. HALL, was responsible for the hand over of the Luqa base from the Royal Air Force to the civilian Maltese authorities in March 1979. He held a farewell parade at Luqa on 31st March 1979, and the next day piloted a single Nimrod aircraft from Luqa. He flew over Grand Harbour, and dipped the aircraft’s wings in salute, before making a circuit of the island and then continued his flight to Gibraltar
Pilot Officer J.E. HALL, a Hurricane pilot, took off from the deck of HMS Ark Royal on 27th April 1941, to bring additional aircraft to Malta. On 12th May 1941, he was a member of 185 Squadron that was formed at Hal Far
J.W. HALL, LAM, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Pilot Officer L.A. HALL, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 242 Squadron
P.R. HALL, Lieutenant, died 14th June 1942, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Argus, whilst escorting the Convoy ‘Harpoon’
A.F. HALLETT, Sub-Lieutenant (A), RNVR, Fleet Air Arm, died 30th June 1941, of the Aircraft Carrier HMS Furious
Pilot Officer W.C.W. HALLETT, Hurricane pilot arrived September 1941 and joined 126 Squadron
Sam HALSTEAD, 1102677, Leading Aircraftman, R.A.F., from Todmorden, Yorkshire. One evening in October 1942 during an enemy air attack, an aircraft on the ground caught fire. LAC Halstead and Corporal McQuaide rushed to the scene knowing the aircraft was loaded with bombs. They attempted to release the bombs whilst the aircraft was still burning, but were unable to do so. They obtained a fire extinguisher and continued in their efforts to put out the fire until ordered to stop. The bombs exploded a few minutes later. During the whole of this time enemy aircraft were dropping bombs in their vicinity. Apart from this night, both men at all times carried out their duties with efficiency and courage. They were awarded the British Empire Medal in May 1943
Pilot Officer Claud Eric HAMILTON, from Scotland. On 17th November 1940 at dawn he took off from the deck of the aircraft carrier HMS Argus for Malta. His aircraft was in the first wave consisting of six Hurricanes, of which two failed to arrive. From the second wave of six aircraft, none ever arrived at Malta, so it was presumed that they ran out of fuel and fell into the sea. On 12th May 1941, he was a member of 185 Squadron that was formed at Hal Far. In the afternoon of 14th May 1941 he was shot down by a German Messerschmitt and critically wounded. He died shortly after from his injuries
Lieutenant R.W.V. HAMILTON, a Swordfish pilot with the Fleet Air Arm. Took off from HMS Illustrious in the second wave attackers on the Italian Fleet anchored in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940
Sergeant D.E. HAMLYN, Blenheim Pilot with 107 Squadron at Luqa airfield in September 1941. On 4th October 1941 he took part in a mission to bomb targets in Tripolitania, and when returning to Malta about 50 miles off the Triplolitania coast his aircraft was badly damaged by enemy fighters and he was forced to ditch into the sea. He was found with the rest of the crew in a dinghy near Djerba a couple of days later
Pilot Officer D.J. HAMMOND, a Hurricane pilot, arrived the last week of January 1941. An ex-Battle of Britain pilot
Leading Aircraftsman R. HAMPSON, 4092401, aged 22 years, from Johnstown, Denbigh, killed in an air crash on 18th February 1956. See ALLBERRY for details
Pilot Officer B.D. HANAFIN, a Blenheim pilot with 105 Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield in July 1941
Flying Officer N.P.W HANCOCK, a Hurricane pilot, took off from the deck of HMS Ark Royal on 27th April 1941, to bring additional aircraft to Malta. On 12th May 1941, he was a member of 185 Squadron that was formed at Hal Far. Left Malta at the end of September 1941 for Egypt. Retired from the Royal Air Force in 1958
S.J. HANCOCK, AF, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
M. HANKEY, Mentioned in Despatches, Sub-Lieutenant (A), RNVR, Fleet Air Arm, died 12th August 1942, of the Aircraft Carrier, HMS Eagle. Whilst providing part of the escort for the ‘Pedestal’ Convoy, they came under attack by enemy aircraft, E-boats and submarines. About 1 p.m. on the 11th his ship was hit on the port side by four torpedoes fired by the German U-boat U-73. The sea was calm, but as the ship keeled over, the Swordfish aircraft on the flight deck slid into the water, and the ship disappeared in a matter of about eight minutes. Some of the crew were rescued by other ships in the Fleet, but over 150 men lost their lives
Sergeant Percy HANKINS, Air Gunner in a Lockheed Hudson, 59 Squadron, died 18th January 1942, when the aircraft crashed into high ground near Luqa. Two other crew members also died and one survived
A.J. HANSCOMBE, AM2, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Sergeant Brian Paul HANSON, a Maryland pilot, 69 Squadron, was lost whilst attacking an enemy convoy, 26th June 1941. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Sergeant H.L. HANSON, Blenheim pilot with 18 Squadron. On 19th November 1941 six Blenheims took off to attack an enemy convoy headed for North Africa, but the gunfire from the escorting destroyers was intense and his aircraft was shot down. All the crew lost their lives
Reverend Robert Edward Vernon HANSON, Army Chaplain, served in Malta, 1913 – 1914, but transferred to the Royal Air Force when it was created in 1918
Sergeant Frank A. HARBORD, Observer with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield in July 1941
Flying Officer Edward H. HARDIE, Master of HSL 137 at Kalafrana when it came into service 26th July 1938. Commanding Officer of RAF Search and Rescue at Kalafrana Sea Plane base in 1939
Carden Vivian HARDING, aged 30 years, bachelor, Medical Orderly, Royal Australian Air Force, R.N.A.S. Hal Far, the son of James Harding, married 12th January 1953, to Marie Clara JONES, spinster, Medical Orderly, Womens Royal Australian Air Force, the daughter of Hoswill Francis James Jones
John James Haggett HARDING, 628747, Flight Sergeant. He was employed in the equipment section at a Royal Air Force aerodrome in Malta, which sustained heavy and almost continuous air attacks. During a an attack in the first half of 1942 he was sheltering in a trench a very short distance away from the Equipment Section when it was destroyed. Though he was badly shaken and narrowly escaped injury, he immediately set about trying to save some of the valuable equipment since it was irreplaceable. His personal efforts inspired others and contributed to the high standard of morale within his Section. In June 1942 he was awarded the British Empire Medal
Flight Lieutenant HARDING, Royal New Zealand Air Force, Wellington pilot with 221 Squadron in 1942
Corporal Frederick Albert HARLEY, Royal Air Force, died on board HMS Illustrious, 10th January 1941. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Flying Officer E.J.F. HARRINGTON, Hurricane pilot with 249 Squadron, arrived on Malta 21st May 1941. Left Malta for England 26th December 1941
Sergeant Donald Reuben HARRIS, 976863, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, with 105 Blenheim Squadron in August 1941 at Luqa airfield. On 12th September 1941, he was attacking shipping off the North African coast but the enemy destroyer escorts shot down his aircraft killing all the crew. His Observer was Sergeant Porteous and Pilot Squadron Leader Charney. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Leading Aircraftsman E.R. HARRIS, 4092027, aged 22 years, from Kinbolton, Herefordshire, killed in an air crash on 18th February 1956. See ALLBERRY for details
John David HARRIS, aged 27 years, bachelor, Corporal, Royal Air Force, RAF station Safi, the son of Bernard Wyndham Harris, married 14th November 1949, to Josephine Lily GOODRICH, aged 24 years, spinster,the daughter of Charles Goodrich
Wing Commander R.H. HARRIS, Station Commander at Hal Far from 26th July 1941 until 26th September
Sergeant John Nowell HARRISON, a Blenheim pilot, of 82 Squadron, which crashed 19th June 1941, killing all on board. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Sergeant Leslie HARRISON, Rear Gunner with 105 Blenheim Squadron in September 1941
Squadron Leader J. HARRISON-BROADLEY, Blenheim pilot with 82 Squadron. On 22nd June 1941 whilst attacking an enemy convoy off Lampedusa, flak from the ships hit both of his engines which caught fire, but he managed to drop his bombs before ditching into the sea. All the crew were rescued and taken prisoner
Miss HART, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Wing Commander C.F.A. HARTE, from South Africa. Commanding Officer of 107 Squadron, flying Blenheims, based at Luqa in September 1941. On 9th October 1941 whilst leading a mission to attack enemy shipping, his aircraft went missing
Leading Aircraftsman W. HARTHILL, ground crew of 185 Squadron at Hal Far in May 1941
Flight Lieutenant Peter W. HARTLEY, pilot at Hal Far airfield in March 1940. Piloting one the three Gladiators on 31st July 1940 his plane was attacked by Italian fighters, severely damaged and on fire it crashed into the sea. He managed to bale out, but was badly burnt on his face, legs and hands. He was taken to Imtarfa Military Hospital where he remained for several weeks suffering intense pain from his burns. Later he was returned to England by flying boat
Miss HARTLEY, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Roy Stanley HARVEY, of Leigh on Sea, Essex, Royal Air Force, the son of Lesley James Henry and Phyllis Eileen Harvey, nee Gibbons, married 18th June 1960 to Carmela Mary VASSALLO, of Rabat, the daughter of Fortunato Francis and Carmela Maria Vassallo, nee Buhagiar
Sergeant R.V. HARVEY, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 242 Squadron
J. HASTIE, AM1, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Reginald K.W. HATHORN, died 5th April 1946, aged 23 years. A member of the aircrew on board a Vickers Wellington Naval aircraft which crashed on St. Publius Street, Rabat, about 11 a.m. on 5th April 1946. On the ground sixteen civilians were killed plus five crew members lost their lives
Pilot Officer W.B. HAY, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 242 Squadron
Norman HAYWOOD, 3501380, Corporal, Royal Air Force. He served in the RAF from 1948 to 1958 which included time at RAF Safi and RAF Kalafrana from 1949 to 1952. A Radio and Radar Technician by trade he was employed maintaining the equipment on aircraft and the RAF High Speed Launches. He was born in Leicester in 1928 and died in 1997. Whilst in Malta his wife Sylvia gave birth to a son, Robert Lee Haywood, at the Mtarfa Military Families Hospital in August 1950
Miss HAYES, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Flight Sergeant Brian HAYES, a Hurricane pilot, with 185 Squadron at Hal Far, early July 1941. On 21st December 1941 whilst in combat with incoming enemy bombers and fighters his aircraft was shot down in the sea about five miles off shore. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Albert George HAYNES, aged 25 years, bachelor, Nursing Orderley, Royal Air Force, AHQ, the son of Arthur John Haynes, married 10th October 1945, to Joyce Lilian TAYLOR, aged 25 years, spinster, Nursing Sister, 90 General Hospital, the daughter of William Edwin Taylor
Corporal Kenneth Walter HAYTER, 571417, serving at Kalafrana RAF Base, killed 18th April 1942
Sergeant Walter Brendan HEALY, 978873, Observer with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield in July 1941. On 26th August 1941 having completed their requisite number of sorties, Sergeant Healy was ready to return to England. However he and his crew were called upon to photograph and attack shipping off Tunisia. They successfully attacked the target but the aircraft was flying low and hit one of the masts and exploded, damaging the superstructure and disintegrating. Along with Sergeant Healy, his Pilot Flight Sergeant Scott and Wireless Op/Air Gunner Sergeant Bastin were killed. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Miss Marjorie HEDLEY, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
J. HEEDE, AF, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
W.A. HEELEY, LAF, Fleet Air Arm, died 11th August 1942, on board the Aircraft Carrier, HMS Eagle. Whilst providing part of the escort for the ‘Pedestal’ Convoy, they came under attack by enemy aircraft, E-boats and submarines. About 1 p.m. his ship was hit on the port side by four torpedoes fired by the German U-boat U-73. The sea was calm, but as the ship keeled over, the Swordfish aircraft on the flight deck slid into the water, and the ship disappeared in a matter of about eight minutes. Some of the crew were rescued by other ships in the Fleet, but over 150 men lost their lives
1st Lieutenant Robert HEIL, 309 Fighter Squadron, United States Air Force, based at Xewkija Airfield, Gozo, killed 28th July 1943 in action over Sicily
Bernard W. HEMSLEY, Flight Lieutenant, R.A.F., October 1937
Sergeant James Dudley HENDERSON, a crew member of a Shackleton aircraft which crashed on 12th February 1954, killing all the men on board
Lieutenant Robert HENLEY, pilot of a Fulmar, in combat with enemy aircraft was shot down into the sea close to the shore at Kalafrana, 18th January 1941. Sapper Spiro Zammit, Royal Engineers, immediately dived into the water and on reaching one of the crew Naval Airman A.S. Rush, kept him afloat until rescued by HSL 137. He was awarded the British Empire Medal for his bravery
Sergeant Roy F.J. HENLEY, Blenheim pilot with 107 Squadron. On 22nd December 1941 after successfully bombing transport on the Sirte road, his aircraft was seen to crash into the sea
Sergeant James Henry HENNELL, a crew member of a Shackleton aircraft which crashed on 12th February 1954, killing all the men on board
Maxwell James HENNESSY, Leading Aircraftsman, A23246, Royal Australian Air Force, died in an aircraft accident on 18th January 1954, aged 25 years
Wing Commander Philip Whaley Ellis HEPPELL DFC+Bar, served with 249 Squadron in the summer of 1942 at Ta Kali airfield
Warrant Officer Samuel James HERD, 1077076, RAFVR, W.Op/Air Gunner, died 3rd/4th September 1948. Soon after midnight Friday/Saturday, 3rd/4th September 1948, while exercising with units of the British and United States fleets, a Royal Air Force Lancaster TX263Q, of 38 Squadron based at Luqa RAF Station, went missing. An extensive search was undertaken by the Royal Navy, in company with the United States carrier USS Kearsarge and seven United States destroyers, plus an Italian corvette. American and Italian aircraft also participated in the search. Lieutenant Commander Pridham Wippel R.N., piloting a Seafire from HMS Triumph, sighted wreckage on a hilltop on Monte Cristo island, 25 miles south of Elba. The aircraft carrier put a landing party ashore after the location of the wreckage had been confirmed, but found that there were no survivors. The bodies of the seven man crew were recovered, and buried at sea from the aircraft carrier HMS Triumph on the Sunday afternoon, 5th, with full military honours
Flight Lieutenant Raymond HERSCHEL, Photographic Interpreter, Luqa airfield, June 1942
Miss Doris HERSEY, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Miss Margaret HERSEY, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Pilot Officer Ray Brown HESSELYN MBE DFM+Bar, Royal New Zealand Air Force, fighter pilot with 249 Squadron in Summer 1942 at Ta Kali airfield. He died in 1965
Pilot Officer James Cecil William HEWETSON, 80457, Royal Air Force (V.R.), from Salisbury, Southern Rhodesia. A Beaufort pilot with 39 Squadron. Whilst taking part in nighttime attack on enemy shipping on the 25th February 1943 his aircraft was brought down in the sea. He was killed but his three crew members survived the crash and climbed out of the plane and managed to launch the rubber dinghy, being picked up later by an Italian torpedo boat and taken into captivity. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
John HEWITT, Wireless Op./Air Gunner with 69 Squadron in September 1942
Norman Edward HEYWOOD, the son of William Robert and Margaret Heywood, 9 Don Bosco Street, Sliema, Flying Officer, born 22nd March 1922
Squadron Leader HILL, of 111 Squadron, shot down 10th July 1943, during the invasion of Sicily, but managed to land safely at Pachino airfield on Sicily
Sergeant Charles Herbert HILL, 1154518, Observer with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield in July 1941. On 17th September 1941 he took off to attack shipping off the south east coast of Tunisia, heading for Tripoli. As they made a low level attack over a heavily laden schooner the aircraft crashed into the sea, possibly as a result of hitting strong wires stretched between the ship’s masts. Sergeant Hill, together with his Pilot Sergeant Bendall, and Wireless Op./Air Gunner Sergeant Brown were killed instantly. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Pilot Officer F.C. HILL, arrived in July 1941 and joined 249 Squadron
Squadron Leader Robert HILL, the Station Medical Officer, at Luqa. During darkness in the evening of 8th March 1942 a Wellington bomber of No. 37 Squadron R.A.F., was taxiing down the runway at Luqa RAF Station when it collided with a Wellington of the same Squadron which was just taking off from the same runway in the opposite direction. Both aircraft burst into flames and the bombs and mines which had been fitted to both aircraft began exploding. However, some ground staff rushed to the scene in an attempt to rescue men from the stricken aircraft. They managed to help seven injured men to safety, whilst three died in the crash, and one crewman was uninjured. For his bravery he was awarded the George Medal, together with three other members of the R.A.F., Flight Lieutenant Ernest Williams, Leading Aircraftsman Cyril Boarman and Leading Aircraftsman Hyman Sumray
Sergeant Raymond HILLS, pilot, 104 Squadron, crew member of a Vickers Wellington bomber. Six aircraft took off on a mission to bomb Catania, but only five arrived at the target. His aircraft was forced to return badly damaged and crashed near Qormi. He was rescued together with Sergeant Eric Martin, who died later from his wounds, by men from the Royal Malta Artillery. The other four crewmen were killed in the crash, 29th May 1942
Sergeant F.K. HINDLE, Observer with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield in July 1941
Flying Officer P.S. HIRST, pilot of Bristol Beaufighter which arrived from England via Gibraltar on 1st May 1941, with twelve others
Flight Sergeant HISKINS, pilot with 249 Squadron in October 1942
Lawrence David HITCHCOCK, 21 years, bachelor, Air Signaller, Royal Air Force, RAF Sergeant's Mess, Luqa, the son of William Thomas Hitchcock deceased, Representative married 4th April 1959 to Jean McMillan McINTOSH, 24 years, spinster, from Scotland
Mrs HITCHES, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Sergeant J.T. HITCHING, a Hurricane pilot, joined 261 Squadron during first week of March 1941. Retired from the Royal Air Force in 1958 with the rank of Squadron Leader
Sergeant David Allen Downer HOARE, 956948, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield July 1941. On 15th August 1941, his aircraft was engaged on bombing shipping in Benghazi harbour. Their bomb hit a tanker, but as they pulled away they were hit by gunfire from the ships and exploded. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Pilot Officer N.K. HODGE, a Navigator with 227 Beaufighter Squadron in December 1942
Malcolm HODGSON, Royal Air Force, RAF Luqa, the son of Harold and Hilda Hodgson, nee Bell, married 22nd May 1960 to Theresa FALZON, of Rabat, the daughter of Anthony and Margaret Falzon, nee Falzon
Sergeant C.G. HODSON, a Hurricane pilot, arrived last week of January 1941. An ex-Battle of Britain pilot. On 12th May 1941, he was a member of 185 Squadron that was formed at Hal Far
Senior Aircraftsman S.A. HODSON, aged 20 years, from Market Harborough, killed in an air crash on 18th February 1956. See ALLBERRY for details
Flight Sergeant George HOGARTH, Spitfire pilot, 249 Squadron, from Canada. Early evening 14th August 1942, baled out from his damaged aircraft and landed in the sea about three miles off Zonqor. He was rescued by HSL 128. He died less than two months later when he crash-landed an aircraft
M. HOLDSWORTH, Sub-Lieutenant (A), RNVR, Fleet Air Arm, HMS St.Angelo, the Naval Shore Base, died 24th February 1942
Flying Officer J.B. HOLGATE, pilot of Bristol Beaufighter that arrived from England via Gibraltar May 1941
Flying Officer Tony HOLLAND, Spitfire pilot with 603 Squadron in May 1942
Leading Aircraftsman J.M. HOLLIDAY, 4425984, aged 20 years, from Worcester, killed in an air crash on 18th February 1956. See ALLBERRY for details
Pilot Officer Tom HOLLINSHEAD, Royal Air Force, a Beaufighter Navigator with 272 Squadron. Based at Luqa airfield during the Summer of 1943. Whilst taking part in offensive operations his aircraft was hit by flak, on 30th July and again on 17th August. In each instance the aircraft’s hydraulics were shot up damaging the landing gear. His pilot, Flight Lieutenant C.P. Johns, Royal Canadian Air Force, successfully crash landed the aircraft on both occasions. On 4th May 1994 he was awarded the ‘Malta George Cross Fiftieth Anniversary Medal’
Leading Aircraftsman John HOLLINGWORTH, Wellington crew member. About half an hour before midnight on the 3rd November 1940 a Flight of Wellington bombers prepared to take off from Luqa airfield each carrying a full load of bombs on a mission to attack the city of Naples.
The first aircraft became airborne and headed for Italy, the second Wellington (T2743) piloted by Sergeant Raymond Lewin failed to get higher than about 500 feet when it started to go down, and crashed in open ground near Tal Handaq, and burst into flames. Realizing that the aircraft had full petrol tanks and a number of bombs, he told his crew to get out of the area as quickly as possible.
LAC John Hollingworth survived this horrendous event, together with Sergeant Raymond Lewin, Sergeant Archibald Hunter, and Sergeant Thomas Reay, but Pilot Officer David Allen died from his injuries. About half an hour later, the fourth Wellington in this Flight crashed onto houses in Qormi
Sub-Lieutenant K. HOLME, Fleet Air Arm, pilot of Bristol Beaufighter which arrived from England via Gibraltar on 1st May 1941, with twelve others
Sergeant Oliver HOLMES, 104 Squadron, Air Gunner of Vickers Wellington. Six Wellingtons took off to bomb airfields in Sardinia. His was the last and failed to gain height, since the undercarriage was still down it struck a wall, causing the plane to crash, and all the crew were killed. 7th November 1942
D.A.R. HOLMES, Sub-Lieutenant (A), Fleet Air Arm, HMS St.Angelo, the Naval Shore Base. Whilst attacking an enemy convoy, his Swordfish aircraft was shot down, and he died 25th June 1941, together with his crewman
Sub-Lieutenant R.D.B. HOPKINS, Fleet Air Arm, pilot of Bristol Beaufighter sent from England but force landed at Casablanca and interned, April 1941,
Sergeant W.A. HOPKINSON, Blenheim Pilot with 107 Squadron at Luqa in September 1941. An enemy convoy of five cargo ships and two tankers with cruiser and destroyer escorts was sighted between Corfu and Cephalonia on 8th November 1941. Whilst attacking this convoy his aircraft hit a ship’s mast, crashed into the sea and blew up, killing all the crew
Lieutenant Commander M. HORDERN DFC, Commanding 802 Squadron arrived at Hal Far airfield, from HMS Vengeance on 11th November 1947. But the squadron left after a few days to be based at Ta Kali airfield
Flight Sergeant W. HORNING, a Wellington pilot with 221 Squadron in January 1943
Sergeant G.E. HORRICKS, joined 249 Squadron early December 1941
Pilot Officer J.M. HORROX. On 17th November 1940 at dawn he took off from the deck of the aircraft carrier HMS Argus for Malta. His aircraft was in the second wave consisting of six Hurricanes. None ever arrived at Malta, so it was presumed that they ran out of fuel and fell into the sea
Sergeant J. HORSEY, a Hurricane pilot, with 185 Squadron at Hal Far, early July 1941
Flying Officer P.W. HORTON. On 17th November 1940 at dawn he took off from the deck of the aircraft carrier HMS Argus for Malta. His aircraft was in the second wave consisting of six Hurricanes. None ever arrived at Malta, so it was presumed that they ran out of fuel and fell into the sea
Corporal Reginald George HOSKINS, aged 25 years, bachelor, RAF base Calafrana, the son of William George Hoskins, married 20th June 1927 to, Dorothy NEILD, aged 24 years, spinster, of Long Ashton, Bristol, the daughter of William Herbert Neild
Corporal Edwin HOUGH, Royal Air Force, died on board HMS Illustrious, 10th January 1941. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Squadron Leader W.L. HOULBROOK, took over as Station Commander at Hal Far airfield on 29th August 1939. He had previously been the Commanding Officer of 3 Anti-Aircraft Cooperation Unit (3 AACF) there. However, with the outbreak of WWII he returned to command 3AACF on 1st January 1940
William Leigh HOULBROOK, aged 31 years, bachelor, Squadron Leader, Royal Air Force, RAF station Hal Far, the son of William Edward Houlbrook, married 10th May 1940, to Daphne Marguerite PAIGE, aged 21 years, spinster, the daughter of Brigadier Douglas Paige
Corporal Douglas S. HOUNSLOW, 1165159, 138 Squadron, died in an aircrash 17th December 1942. See Major Lord A.A.B. APSLEY for details
Flight Sergeant D.J. HOWE, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 605 Squadron. Just prior to the arrival of Spitfires on Malta during the first week of March 1942, he flew a Hurricane sortie on the 1st March against a large number of German bombers, and though he managed to destroy a Ju-88 his aircraft was attacked and he had to bail out. After recovering from his injuries he was later a pilot with 112 Squadron in North Africa
Sergeant A. HOWELL, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 605 Squadron
Lieutenant Commander F.D. HOWIE, Commanding Officer of 830 Squadron, at Hal Far airfield, was posted in early August 1941 to A.H.Q.
Charles William HOWLETT, aged 26 years, bachelor, Leading Aircraftsman, Royal Air Force, R.A.F. station Kalafrana, the son of Sydney Howlett, married 18th January 1939, to Gladys Edith CHOAT, aged 20 years, spinster, Hotel Bar Waitress, Buckhill Cottages, Black Notley, Braintree, Essex, the daughter of Sydney George Choat
Miss Phyllis HOYLE, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Albert Henry HUBBARD, Airman U.S. Navy, February 1954. The son of Albert Henry Hubbard, from Virginia, U.S.A.
A.J. HUDSON, AF, Fleet Air Arm, died 11th August 1942, on board the Aircraft Carrier, HMS Eagle. Whilst providing part of the escort for the ‘Pedestal’ Convoy, they came under attack by enemy aircraft, E-boats and submarines. About 1 p.m. his ship was hit on the port side by four torpedoes fired by the German U-boat U-73. The sea was calm, but as the ship keeled over, the Swordfish aircraft on the flight deck slid into the water, and the ship disappeared in a matter of about eight minutes. Some of the crew were rescued by other ships in the Fleet, but over 150 men lost their lives
Kenneth Patrick HUDSON, R.A.F., from Sheffield, the son of Kenneth and Ann Mavis Hudson, married 7th April 1958, to Teresa Rose BOTTERIL, the daughter of Thomas Henry and Pauline Botteril, nee Muscat
Flight Sergeant HUGHES, pilot with 249 Squadron at Qrendi airfield in November 1942
Sergeant John Edward HUGHES, 1293146, Royal Air Force (V.R.), a pilot with 227 Beaufighter Squadron. He was taking part in an attack on the seaplane base at Bizerta on 14th November 1942, when his aircraft was shot down by enemy fighters. He died together with his Navigator, Sergeant Candler. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
John Michael HUGHES, 592522, Sergeant, Royal Air Force. He was the Air Quartermaster on a flight from El Adem RAF Station, Libya, to Malta at about 20.15 hours on the night of 10th October 1961. The passengers were men of the Malta Fortress Squadron, Royal Engineers, who had been on an exercise in Libya. They boarded the Hastings 498 aircraft but as the plane was taking off it started going sideways, fell back to the ground and immediately burst into flames. A total of 15 Maltese soldiers died the same day or later from their injuries whilst 22 survived. The dead were taken back to Malta and most were buried in a special plot in Pembroke Military cemetery. It appears that Sergeant Hughes was originally thrown clear of the aircraft but went back to help evacuate the other men. He made several attempts but became trapped himself and lost his life. His body was taken to Cyprus and buried in the Dhekelia Military Cemetery. He was 26 years old and left a widow and young family residing in Bridgwater, Somerset
Group Captain Piet HUGO, from South Africa, in early June 1943 appointed to Hal Far airfield
Sergeant John Graham Kenelm HULBERT, Hurricane pilot with 249 Squadron, arrived on Malta 21st May 1941. Was shot down by enemy aircraft and crashed into the sea, 4th February 1942. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Lieutenant P. HUMPHREYS, Fleet Air Arm, Swordfish Observer, on HMS Illustrious and in the second wave of attackers on the Italian Fleet anchored in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940. His aircraft was hit twice which made it difficult to control and the landing back on the aircraft carrier needed all the skill of his pilot Lieutenant Wellham
Lieutenant Commander J.G. HUNT, appointed Commanding Officer of 830 Squadron at Hal Far airfield, 1st October 1941
Wing Commander Theodore Moseley HUNT DFC, 37356, a Blenheim pilot with 110 Squadron. On 18th July 1941 six Blenheims took off to attack a power station in Tripoli. His aircraft No.Z9582 was seen to have made direct hits on the target, but was attacked by Fiat CR42 Italian fighters and crashed into the sea. The Observer was Sergeant Kenneth Tucker, and Wireless Op./Air Gunner Sergeant Frederick Thripp. All three men lost their lives and their bodies were never recovered. He was 26 years old
Wing Commander Theodore Moseley Hunt DFC Sergeant Archibald HUNTER, Wellington crew member. About half an hour before midnight on the 3rd November 1940 a Flight of Wellington bombers prepared to take off from Luqa airfield each carrying a full load of bombs on a mission to attack the city of Naples.
The first aircraft became airborne and headed for Italy, the second Wellington (T2743) piloted by Sergeant Raymond Lewin failed to get higher than about 500 feet when it started to go down, and crashed in open ground near Tal Handaq, and burst into flames. Realizing that the aircraft had full petrol tanks and a number of bombs, he told his crew to get out of the area as quickly as possible.
Sergeant Archibald Hunter survived this horrendous event, together with Sergeant Raymond Lewin, Leading Aircraftsman John Hollingworth and Sergeant Thomas Reay, but Pilot Officer David Allen died from his injuries. About half an hour later, the fourth Wellington in this Flight crashed onto houses in Qormi
Sergeant C.L. HUNTON, a Hurricane pilot, with 185 Squadron at Hal Far, early July 1941
Pilot Officer John HURST DFC, 121463, Royal Air Force (V.R.), Spitfire Pilot, with 603 Squadron, stationed Ta Kali airfield in the Summer of 1942. Whilst on a flying mission on the 2nd July 1942, it is thought that he crashed into the sea, and was killed. Three rescue searches were made but no trace of his plane was found. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Sergeant John Keogh HUTT, Maryland pilot, failed to return for a sortie 24th November 1941. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Pilot Officer D.F. HUTT, Wellington pilot with 40 Squadron. During the night of 5th November a group of twenty Wellingtons mounted a raid on the Royal Arsenal at Naples. His aircraft was shot down by an Italian fighter, he managed to bale out together with another crew member, but the other four men perished
Wing Commander E.P. HUTTON, a Wellington pilot of 221 Squadron in January 1943
Sergeant R.J. HYDE, Hurricane pilot, flew his plane off the deck of HMS Argus on 2nd August 1940, and landed at Luqa to increase the number of aircraft to defend the island
Sergeant C.D.S. HYSLOP, Royal Air Force, died on board HMS Illustrious, 10th January 1941
Supermarine Spitfire Flying Officer Zbigniev IDZIKOWSKI, a Polish officer serving with the Royal Air Force, died in an aircrash 17th December 1942. See Major Lord A.A.B. APSLEY for details
Raymond John IFE, aged 21 years, bachelor, Leading Aircraftsman, Royal Air Force, RAF HQ Valletta, the son of George John Ife, married 3rd June 1950, to June Daphne Ann CAINS, aged 18 years, spinster, the daughter of Jack Frank Cains, Master Sergeant, R.A.S.C.
Bruce INGHAM, Royal New Zealand Air Force, with 601 Squadron
Percy James INGRAM, aged 26 years, bachelor, Leading Aircraftsman, Royal Air Force, RAF Hal Far, the son of George Henry Ingram, married 14th June 1937, to Ellen Louise MILDENHALL, aged 21 years, spinster, from Swindon, the daughter of William Mildenhall
Sergeant Edwin Bentall INMAN, Blenheim pilot with 82 Squadron. Whilst attacking an enemy convoy, his aircraft was shot down into the sea, all the crewmen lost their lives. 27th May 1941. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Pilot Officer R.A. INNES, a Hurricane pilot, took off from the deck of HMS Ark Royal on 27th April 1941, to bring additional aircraft to Malta. On 1st May 1941 he was involved in a battle with Messerschmitt fighters and was shot down, sustaining some wounds. When 185 Squadron which was formed at Hal Far on 12th May 1941, he was a member, though non-operational. With the rank of Squadron Leader he became Commanding Officer of 185 Squadron on 15th September 1941, based at Hal Far airfield.
Flight Sergeant IRWIN, Spitfire pilot with 603 Squadron in May 1942
Pilot Officer D. IVENS, Observer with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield in July 1941
Flying Officer Aubrey Fenwick IZZARD, Royal Canadian Air Force, 39 Beaufort Squadron. Died 22nd September 1942 along with his crew when their aircraft on a mission against enemy shipping collided with a Beaufighter. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Swordfish Squadron Leader JACKSON, Commanding Officer of 126 Squadron at Luqa Airfield in 1943
Sergeant W.H.A. JACKSON DFM, a Blenheim pilot with 105 Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield in July 1941
Mrs JACKSON, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Charles Arthur JACOBS, aged 25 years, bachelor, Corporal, Royal Air Force, the son of Albert Charles Jacobs, married 15th September 1973 to, Catherine Rose HAY, aged 21 years, spinster, the daughter of James Hay, Sergeant, Royal Air Force. The ceremony performed by the Reverend Brian Humphrey Lucas, RAF Chaplain, at St.Christopher’s Station Church, Luqa Aerodrome
Sergeant R.C. JACQUES, pilot with 243 Squadron in July 1943, at Hal Far airfield
Lieutenant H.R.B. JANVRIN, Fleet Air Arm, Swordfish Observer, on HMS Illustrious and in the first wave of attackers on the Italian Fleet anchored in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940
Corporal Ronald Edward JARVIS, Royal Air Force, died on board HMS Illustrious, 10th January 1941. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Flight Lieutenant R.E. JAY, pilot of Bristol Beaufighter that arrived from England via Gibraltar on 1st May 1941, with twelve others
Flight Lieutenant C.G.St.D. JEFFRIES, a Hurricane pilot, took off from the deck of HMS Ark Royal on 27th April 1941, to bring additional aircraft to Malta. On 12th May 1941, 185 Squadron was formed at Hal Far and he was the Commander of ‘A’ flight
Flying Officer C.H. JEFFRIES, Engineering Officer with 249 Squadron in July 1941
Frank James JEMMETT, Pilot-Officer, 116904, Royal Air Force (VR), 601 Squadron. A large formation of German aircraft, 50 JU-88’s, 20 JU-87’s escorted by Messerschmitts, attacked the Dockyard, Hal Far, Ta Kali, and Luqa airfields. In the ensuing combat his Spitfire was badly damaged, he crash landed and the plane burst into flames. He was rescued by men from the Lancashire Fusiliers, who extracted him badly burnt and seriously wounded. He died that evening in hospital, 22nd April 1942.
Clifford James JENKINS, 1169787, Leading Aircraftman, R.A.F. He was employed as a nursing orderly who not only carried out his duties correctly but did so with courage. One evening in October 1942 he observed an aircraft coming into land which was in difficulties, and in fact it crashed and immediately burst into flames. With his companion AC Poppleton they drove their ambulance to the burning plane. Despite the imminent danger of the ammunition and petrol tanks exploding, both men rushed into the burning wreckage and succeeded in rescuing the wounded pilot who was semiconscious and moved him to safety. Whilst carrying out this dangerous task the aerodrome was still under heavy attack by enemy bombers. By their prompt and brave action they saved the pilot's life. He was awarded the British Empire Medal in December 1942
Sergeant Henry Horace JENNINGS, flew a Hurricane off HMS Ark Royal, 3rd April 1941 to increase the number of aircraft on Malta. Joined 261 Squadron. On 7th May 1941 two planes from 261 Squadron collided, and he died when his aircraft hit the ground near Gharghur. The other pilot Sergeant Walker, managed to bale out before his aircraft plunged into the sea
Sergeant E.R. JESSOP, flew a Hurricane off HMS Ark Royal, 3rd April 1941 to increase the number of aircraft on Malta
Sergeant F.J. JESSOP, a Hurricane pilot, joined 261 Squadron at the beginning of March 1941
Flight Lieutenant C.P. JOHNS, Royal Canadian Air Force, a Beaufighter pilot with 272 Squadron. Arrived 17th July 1943, and stationed at Luqa airfield. During offensive operations his aircraft was hit by flak, on 30th July and again on 17th August. In each instance the aircraft’s hydraulics were shot up damaging the landing gear. He successfully crash landed the aircraft on both occasions. On 4th September 1943, 272 Squadron left Malta for Borrizzo in Sicily, as the German army retreated. On 4th May 1994 he was awarded the ‘Malta George Cross Fiftieth Anniversary Medal’
Flight Lieutenant Carl Lee JOHNSON, 111235, Royal Air Force (V.R.), from the Banks, Oregon, U.S.A. A Beaufighter pilot with 227 Squadron he was taking part in a raid on enemy shipping off Sousse in Tunisia, on 23rd November 1942 when his aircraft was hit and crashed into the sea. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Wing Commander L.L. JOHNSON, a Wellington pilot with 458 Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force, in January 1943
Sergeant J.H. JOHNSTON, Hurricane pilot, arrived first week of June 1941
Wing Commander Hugh Anthony Stephen (Tim) JOHNSTON CMG OBE DFC, Spitfire pilot, arrived in March 1942 with 126 Squadron. On 20th April 1942 engaged with enemy aircraft over Luqa when his aircraft was badly damaged and he had to bale out. He landed safely. A few days later on the 6th May his aircraft was hit by cannon shells. He baled out and made a successful landing by parachute but had been badly wounded, badly burned around the head and face, and was taken to hospital. He left hospital on 29th May 1942 and returned to England. He died 9th December 1967
R.L. JOHNSTON, Lieutenant, Fleet Air Arm, died 12th August 1942, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Indomitable. His ship was part of the escort for Operation ‘Pedestal’ from Gibraltar. In the late afternoon twelve German Ju-87 aircraft attacked the carrier and she suffered serious damage from the bombs. One hit the forward AA gun positions killing more than twenty of the Royal Marines detachment. Another landed near the forward lift and penetrated the upper gallery deck and exploded above the main hangar deck. The wardroom was crowded with off-duty pilots and observers when it was wrecked by a bomb killing all the occupants. The ship survived the onslaught and headed for Gibraltar
Wing Commander Sandy JOHNSTONE, was appointed Commander of two Spitfire Squadrons at Krendi in January 1943. He continued with a career in the RAF and became an Air Vice Marshall
Sergeant A.W. JOLLY, a Hurricane pilot, took off from the deck of HMS Ark Royal on 27th April 1941, to bring additional aircraft to Malta, joined 261 Squadron at Ta Kali. On 12th May 1941, he was a member of 185 Squadron that was formed at Hal Far
Wing Commander R. Carter JONAS, arrived early July 1940 to take over Command of Royal Air Force Station Luqa
Married 2nd January 1944, Alan Sydney JONES, Sergeant, Royal Air Force, to Beatrice DEGIORGIO
Frank JONES, from Montreal, Canada, pilot with 249 Squadron in the summer of 1942 at Ta Kali airfield
James JONES, 628449, Corporal, R.A.F. His duties whilst in Malta were carried out admirably and with courage. He was awarded the British Empire Medal in July 1942
Sergeant J.E. JONES, 1059799, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, with 105 Blenheim Squadron in August 1941. Whilst attacking Crotone Harbour, Italy on 4th September 1941, enemy fire blew off one wing and the aircraft crashed killing all the crew. The Pilot was Sergeant Wallace and Sergeant Parry the Observer
Sub-Lieutenant P.D. JONES, Fleet Air Arm, Swordfish Observer, on HMS Illustrious, in the second wave of attackers on the Italian Fleet anchored in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940
Mrs JONES, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Petty Officer (A) Arthur JOPLING, Fulmar pilot with 800X Squadron. Whilst attacking targets on Sicily his aircraft was hit and he crash-landed in the sea off Syracuse. He was rescued by the Italians and taken prisoner, with his Observer Lieutenant Manning, 7th October 1941
Margaret May JORDAN, born 22nd July 1927, the daughter of Margaret Elisabeth and Leading Aircraftsman Samuel Henry Jordan, of RAF Calafrana
Sub-Lieutenant P.A. JORDAN, Fleet Air Arm pilot of Fairey Albacore, which crashed shortly after take off from Hal Far. He was injured, but taken out of the aircraft by Private Sutton, Private Downs, L/Cpl Williams and L/Cpl Winsor, all 2nd Battalion, the Devonshire Regiment, 19th June 1942. His observer, Sub-Lieutenant Todd, was killed in the crash and the soldiers extracted his dead body
Sergeant P.L. JORDAN, a Hurricane pilot, took off from the deck of HMS Ark Royal on 27th April 1941, to bring additional aircraft to Malta
Leading Aircraftsman Samuel Henry JORDAN, aged 26 years, bachelor, RAF base Calafrana, the son of Samuel Jordan, married 22nd August 1926 to, Margaret Elizabeth HELLER, aged 22 years, spinster, of Gennycross, Plymouth, the daughter of Henry Trigswell Heller
F.E.C. JUDD DSC, Lieut-Commander, Fleet Air Arm, died 12th August 1942, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Indomitable. His ship was part of the escort for Operation ‘Pedestal’ from Gibraltar. In the late afternoon twelve German Ju-87 aircraft attacked the carrier and she suffered serious damage from the bombs. One hit the forward AA gun positions killing more than twenty of the Royal Marines detachment. Another landed near the forward lift and penetrated the upper gallery deck and exploded above the main hangar deck. The wardroom was crowded with off-duty pilots and observers when it was wrecked by a bomb killing all the occupants. The ship survived the onslaught and headed for Gibraltar
Donald JURD, born 7th October 1928, the son of Dorothy Grace and Leading Aircraftsman William Albert Frederick George Jurd, RAF base Calafrana (twin)
Maurice JURD, born 7th October 1928, the son of Dorothy Grace and Leading Aircraftsman William Albert Frederick George Jurd, RAF base Calafrana (twin)
Bristol Beaufighter TFX
Pilot Officer J.K. KAY, Hurricane pilot, arrived first week of June 1941
Sergeant N. KAY, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield July 1941
Pilot Officer Philip James KEARSEY, 85239, arrived last week of January 1941. An ex-Battle of Britain pilot. A Hurricane pilot with 261 Squadron, shot down into the sea, and killed, 26th February 1941, aged 20 years. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Leading Aircraftsman F.R.J. KEATING, 4084173, aged 22 years, from Norbury, London, killed in an air crash on 18th February 1956. See ALLBERRY for details
Sergeant T.R.D. KEBBLE, Spitfire pilot, 1435 Squadron. Amongst 40 spitfires scrambled that morning to meet German and Italian bombers with fighter escort. Shot up by the enemy, 12th October 1942, he baled out and parachuted down in Valletta, his plane crashed near Balluta Bay, St.Julians
Flight Lieutenant E.H.C. KEE, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 242 Squadron. On 25th January 1942, about 22 Hurricanes had taken off to escort two merchant ships, when they were attacked by German fighter planes and a major dog fight ensued. His aircraft was badly damaged, but he survived
Flight Lieutenant Peter Gardner KEEBLE, 37186, pilot at Hal Far airfield, March 1940. Died 16th July 1940. He was the pilot of a Hurricane, which met a numerically superior force of Italian Fiat CR42’s, was shot down and died in the crash near Marsaskala
Pilot Officer F.W.H. KEENE, Blenheim pilot with 107 Squadron. On 17th December 1941 was attacking the Tripolitanian coast when forced to land in the sea. He was rescued and became a prisoner
Angela Henrietta Sheila KEEPING, born 20th December 1930, the daughter of Jessie Kathryn and Flight Lieutenant Eustace George Keeping, RAF base Calafrana
Pilot Officer Philip KELLEY, had taken off in a Mosquito on a photographic reconnaissance mission to Tripoli, when they were recalled but came under attack from Me-109’s. With one engine on fire the aircraft crash landed at Hal Far, and burnt out, but the two men on board survived. March 1942
Pilot Officer Harry KELLY, from Texas, U.S.A., with 249 Squadron in the summer of 1942 at Ta Kali
Sergeant H.J. KELLY, a Hurricane pilot, joined 261 Squadron at the beginning of March 1941
Stanley KELLY, ACI, 138 Squadron, died in an aircrash 17th December 1942. See Major Lord A.A.B. APSLEY for details
Sergeant Eric Norman KELSEY, Hurricane pilot, flew his plane off the deck of HMS Argus on 2nd August 1940, and landed at Luqa to increase the number of aircraft to defend the island. Shot down 19th January 1941 after attacking enemy bombers and fighters engaged in trying to bomb HMS Illustrious in the dockyard. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Lieutenant L.M. KEMP, Royal Navy, a Swordfish pilot with the Fleet Air Arm, in the first wave of attackers on the Italian Fleet anchored in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940. His torpedo struck the brand new Italian battleship Littorio, blasting a hole forty-nine feet long and thirty-two feet wide in the starboard bow. It was five months before the ship was back in service
N. KEMP DSC, Lieutenant, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Flight Lieutenant Nigel L.D. KEMP DFC, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 242 Squadron. Whilst providing cover for the Breconshire, 27th January 1942, shot down and on fire crashed into the sea. He managed to get into a dinghy and was rescued 24 hours later by launch
Pilot Officer Peter KENNETT, 82685, flew a Hurricane off HMS Ark Royal, 3rd April 1941 to increase the number of aircraft on Malta. Joined 261 Squadron. Shot down by German aircraft, 11th April 1941. He was seen in the sea, but died before a rescue launch arrived, which recovered his body
R.D. KENSETT, Airman, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Paul KENT, aged 30 years, bachelor, Flight Lieutenant, Royal Air Force, the son of John Kent, married 21st April 1945, to Joan KEYWORTH, aged 29 years, spinster, Women’s Royal Naval Service, the daughter of George Brereton Keyworth
Leading Aircraftsman G. KENYON, 4099256, aged 21 years, from Fatfield, nr.Washington, Co.Durham, killed in an air crash on 18th February 1956. See ALLBERRY for details
Married 11th December 1948, Patrick KEOPANE, Chief Airman, Royal Navy, to Doris SAKELLAIDIS
Corporal Walter Mark KERR, aged 23 years, bachelor, Driver, Royal Air Force, the son of John Blackie Kerr, married 14th April 1923 to Margaret SMITH, aged 27 years, spinster, the daughter of William Smith, Miner
Sergeant KERR, Blenheim Pilot with 107 Squadron at Luqa in September 1941
Flight Lieutenant KERRIDGE, Chief Intelligence Officer at Luqa, March 1942
J.A. KERSHAW, AM1, Fleet Air Arm, HMS St.Angelo, the Naval Shore Base, died 24th March 1942
Squadron Leader R.H. KERSHAW, became Station Commander at Kalafrana Seaplane base on 28th January 1929
Sergeant R.G. KIDBY, Blenheim pilot with 107 Squadron. Whilst on an operation to attack ferryboats between Italy and Sicily on 4th December 1941 his aircraft was shot down
Lieutenant L.J. KIGGELL, Fleet Air Arm, Swordfish Pilot, on HMS Illustrious and in the first wave of attackers on the Italian Fleet anchored in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940
Captain Cecil Francis KILNER, Royal Marines Light Infantry. In February 1915 during World War I the carrier HMS Ark Royal was on its way to the Dardanelles when it called at Malta. On the 13th in Grand Harbour Captain Kilner took off in a Short Admiralty 135 Type Folder biplane No.136, a machine with folding wings, and one of the earliest aircraft manufactured by Short Brothers. This is believed to be the first flight by a seaplane in Malta. He was awarded the DSO for operations in Europe during 1914, and Mentioned in Despatches for service in the Eastern Mediterranean in 1916. He received a bar to his DSO in 1917. After the war with the rank of Lieut-Colonel in the RMLI he transferred to the Royal Air Force on 1st August 1919 as a Wing Commander. He was later promoted to Group Captain, and held this rank when he died in London on 20th October 1925
Sergeant James Cecil KIMBERLEY, arrived July 1941, and joined 249 Squadron, died 4th September 1941. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Robert William KIMMINGS, aged 23 years, bachelor, Pilot, Royal Air Force, RAF station Hal Far, the son of William James Kimmings, married 22nd December 1945, to Elsie Violet WRIGHT, aged 20 years, spinster, Women’s Royal Naval Service, the daughter of Richard Wright
Corporal H. KIN, 97724, serving at Kalafrana RAF Base, killed 24th March 1942
Sergeant F.D. KINDELL, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield July 1941
A.T.J. KINDERSLEY, Lieutenant, Fleet Air Arm, died 25th July 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Ark Royal
Aircraftsman 1st Class Gerry R. KING, 256284, member of the crew of Rescue Launch HSL129. They left Kalafrana late afternoon 4th February 1942 and were attacked by enemy aircraft off Benghisa Point. He was in the forward gun turret and was killed by a wound to his head. Flying Officer Nicholls, the Skipper, was hit in the stomach and collapsed in the wheelhouse. First Coxswain Corporal Theo Nielsen, was killed at the helm. Corporal Cooper, the 2nd Coxswain had his left hand shattered by a cannon shell but managed to take the wheel. Leading Aircraftsman Tom Griffiths, in the rear gun turret was severely wounded. Also wounded were Dennis Whittaker, Aircraftsman 2nd Class Norton, and the Wireless Operator Jock Muir. The launch arrived back at Kalafrana, but its condition and the deaths of crew members appalled the whole base. It was taken up the slipway for repairs. Sergeant Lord, 1st Fitter, went to hospital for a check-up, before returning to commence carrying out the repairs
Flying Officer Neville Stuart KING, 112178, Royal Air Force (V.R.), a Spitfire pilot with 603 Squadron. On 8th July 1942, he was engaged in chasing some German Ju-88 aircraft over Gozo, and when turning to return to base was so low that his wing hit the water and the plane crashed. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Force Memorial at Floriana
Group Captain C.B.F. KINGCOME DSO DFC+Bar, a Spitfire pilot at Luqa with 126 and 1435 Squadrons in June 1943
R.H. KINGWOOD, AM, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Flying Officer J.N. KINGSLEY, RAF, 2nd pilot, died 3rd/4th September 1948. Soon after midnight Friday/Saturday, 3rd/4th September 1948, while exercising with units of the British and United States fleets, a Royal Air Force Lancaster TX263Q, of 38 Squadron based at Luqa RAF Station, went missing. An extensive search was undertaken by the Royal Navy, in company with the United States carrier USS Kearsarge and seven United States destroyers, plus an Italian corvette. American and Italian aircraft also participated in the search. Lieutenant Commander Pridham Wippel R.N., piloting a Seafire from HMS Triumph, sighted wreckage on a hilltop on Monte Cristo island, 25 miles south of Elba. The aircraft carrier put a landing party ashore after the location of the wreckage had been confirmed, but found that there were no survivors. The bodies of the seven man crew were recovered, and buried at sea from the aircraft carrier HMS Triumph on the Sunday afternoon, 5th, with full military honours
P.H. KINSLOW, AM2, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Edward Anthony Michael KIRK, born 25th July 1926, the son of Barbara and Corporal Edward Anthony Kirk, R.A.F., of Birzebuggia
J.S. KIRKMAN, 77941, Flying Officer, No. 37 Squadron, R.A.F., Air Gunner, survived an air crash on 8th March 1942. In the dark the Wellington bomber Z.9038 of which he was a crew member, was taxiing down the runway at Luqa RAF Station when it collided with Wellington D.V. 483 which was just taking off from the same runway in the opposite direction. Both aircraft burst into flames and rescue attempts were hampered by exploding bombs and mines which had been fitted to both aircraft
Warrant Officer Roy G. KITCHING, Navigator with 86 Beaufort Squadron. During an attack on enemy shipping in August 1941 he was wounded in his arms and leg but managed to put out a fire caused by enemy cannon shells. The aircraft landed safely at Luqa
Sergeant A.E. KLENIEWSKI, a Polish airman serving with the Royal Air Force, died in an aircrash 17th December 1942. See Major Lord A.A.B. APSLEY for details
Antony John KNAPMAN, aged 23 years, bachelor, RAF Officer, the son of John George Knapman, married 17th June 1946, to Marjorie Catherine Zoe Rebecca Winsdale MANSFIELD-MEADE, aged 25 years, spinster, the daughter of Norman Mansfield-Meade
Pilot Officer Dennis Frederick KNIGHT, 85691, Hurricane pilot arrived 17th March 1941 to join 261 Squadron. Shot down into the sea, 22nd March 1941, aged 19 years. His body was not recovered. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Sergeant Ernest George KNIGHT, 185 Squadron. Scrambled on 25th October 1941 to meet an attacking force of Italian bombers and fighters, his aircraft was shot down and he was killed. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Norman John KNIGHT, 402077, Sergeant, Air Observer, Royal Australian Air Force, serving with No. 37 Squadron R.A.F., died on 8th March 1942. In the dark the Wellington bomber Z.9038 of which he was a crew member, was taxiing down the runway at Luqa RAF Station when it collided with Wellington D.V. 483 which was just taking off from the same runway in the opposite direction. Both aircraft burst into flames and rescue attempts were hampered by exploding bombs and mines which had been fitted to both aircraft. He was taken from the scene to No. 45 General Hospital, at St. Patrick's Barracks, Pembroke, but later died from his injuries. Aged 22 years, the son of John and Harriet May Knight, Croydon, New South Wales, Australia
Sergeant W. KNIGHT, Observer with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield in July 1941
Stanley John KOZLOWSKI, RJ54174, Flight Sergeant, Pilot, Royal Canadian Air Force, serving with No. 37 Squadron R.A.F., killed on 8th March 1942. In the dark his Wellington bomber D.V. 483 was just taking off from the runway at Luqa RAF Station when it collided with Wellington bomber Z.9038 which was taxiing down the same runway in the opposite direction. Both aircraft burst into flames and rescue attempts were hampered by exploding bombs and mines which had been fitted to both aircraft. Aged 27 years, the son of Hilary and Mary Kozlowski, of Ottawa, Canada
Swordfish circling HMS Ark Royal Lieutenant C.B. LAMB, Fleet Air Arm, Swordfish Pilot, on HMS Illustrious and in the first wave of attackers on the Italian Fleet anchored in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940
Lieutenant C.B. LAMB, captured and tortured by the Vichy French Deuxieme Bureau when his Swordfish plane crashed near Sousse in Tunisia, 16th September 1941, when landing a clandestine agent in Tunisia
I. LAMB, Sub-Lieutenant (A), RNVR, Fleet Air Arm, HMS St.Angelo, the Naval Shore Base, died 11th January 1943
Flight Lieutenant R.N. LAMBERT, Hurricane pilot, flew his plane off the deck of HMS Argus on 2nd August 1940, and landed at Luqa to increase the number of aircraft to defend the island. Took over command of 261 Squadron in February 1941 with rank of Squadron Leader. At the beginning of May 1941 he left Malta and returned to England
Flight Sergeant Ronald William LANE, 994791, Royal Air Force (V.R.), a Beaufighter Navigator with 272 Squadron. Whilst on flying duty on 19th December 1942 his aircraft was shot down by enemy aircraft and he was killed along with his pilot Flight Sergeant H.F.M. Pien, from Belgium. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
W.A. LANE, AM2, Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Pilot Officer Charles Edward LANGDON, 43705, from New Zealand. Arrived the last week of January 1941. An ex-Battle of Britain pilot. A Hurricane pilot with 261 Squadron, shot down into the sea, and killed, 26th February 1941. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Sergeant Jacob LANGLEY, Air Gunner, in a Vickers Wellington engaged in two sorties against Comiso aerodrome. During the second attack his plane was damaged by flak, but arrived back over Malta and crashed near Luqa, 13th August 1942. One crewman died in the crash, he sustained injuries, as did the other three crewmen
Swordfish D.E. LANGMORE DSC, Lieut-Commander, Fleet Air Arm, HMS St.Angelo, the Naval Shore Base. On a night time mission to find enemy convoy making for Tripoli his Albacore aircraft was shot down in the sea, and all on board were killed 18th December 1941
R.W. LAPSLEY, AM2, Fleet Air Arm, died 31st July 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Ark Royal
Mrs Doreen LARDEAUX, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Pilot Officer H.P. LARDNER-BURKE, from South Africa, Hurricane pilot, arrived first week of June 1941. On 8th November 1941 whilst attacking a group of Italian bombers and fighters, his aircraft was damaged and he was shot through the back. Though badly wounded he managed to safely land his aircraft and was immediately taken to hospital. He was awarded the DFC at the end of November 1941 and returned to England early in 1942 after leaving hospital
Flying Officer C.J. LAUBSCHER, from South Africa. A Hurricane pilot arrived 17th March 1941 to join 261 Squadron
Olive Joan LAVENDER, aged 23 years, spinster, the daughter of Squadron Leader Leonard Arthur Lavender, Royal Air Force, married 31st August 1937, to Ian Gilbert PHILIP, aged 25 years, bachelor, Assistant Librarian, Bodlian Library, Oxford, 12 Bradmore Road, Oxford, the son of George Taylor Philip
Sergeant R.B. LAWES, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 242 Squadron
Sergeant D.L.J. LAWRENCE, a Maryland pilot with 69 Squadron, took off for a leaflet dropping sortie over several Tunisian towns on 13th August 1941. His aircraft was badly damaged and the crew baled out. His parachute failed to open and he was killed. His Observer Sergeant J.M.Alexander and Air Gunner Sergeant F. Wilkins were rescued from the sea and taken prisoner
Pilot Officer E.A. LAWRENCE, pilot with 243 Squadron at Hal Far in July 1943
Sergeant E.L. LAWRENCE, a Hurricane pilot, took off from the deck of HMS Ark Royal on 27th April 1941, to bring additional aircraft to Malta
Sergeant Roy William LAWSON, Hurricane pilot with 249 Squadron, arrived on Malta 21st May 1941. Enemy aircraft were attacking shipping between Malta and Gozo on the afternoon of 29th December 1941. Hurricanes were sent to intercept them, and his aircraft was damaged and crashed into the sea. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Flight Sergeant Dennys Charles LAWTON, 1154127, Royal Air Force (V.R.). A Beaufighter Navigator with 272 Squadron. On 11th December 1942, he was with five other Beaufighters which encountered German Ju-52’s and ME 109’s and in the ensuing combat his aircraft was shot down and he was killed along with his pilot Flight Sergeant C.G.D.Hains. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Lieutenant Hugh LAY, died 22nd October 1922, when his Aero Bison aircraft crashed into the sea, about five miles off Malta, killing all the crew
Pancho LE BAS, with 601 Squadron, from Argentina.
Lieutenant (A) C.S.E. LEA, Fleet Air Arm, Swordfish pilot on HMS Illustrious, in the second wave of attackers on the Italian Fleet anchored in Taranto Harbour 11th November 1940. His torpedo hit the old Italian battleship Caio Duilio beneath the waterline, making a huge hole in the hull. The ship was run onto the beach to save her sinking. It was six months before the she was back in service
Sergeant Arthur Charles LEACH, Royal Air Force, died on board HMS Illustrious, 10th January 1941. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Sergeant A.J. LEE, a Blenheim Pilot with 107 Squadron, his aircraft was missing after a raid on Argostoli Harbour on 13th December 1941, but landed in the sea and the crew taken prisoner
Sergeant Cyril Francis LEE, Maryland pilot with 69 Squadron. His aircraft was reported missing 15th July 1941 when it failed to return from a reconnaissance mission over Tripolitania. All the crew members were from Australia. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Herbert Horace LEE, aged 24 years, bachelor, Aircraftsman, Royal Air Force, at RAF Station Calafrana, the son of William Lee, Foreman, married 20th June 1936 to, Sybil MITCHELL, aged 27 years, spinster, the daughter of Henry Edwin Mitchell, Colliery Engineman retired
Norman LEE, Flight Commander with 249 Squadron
Squadron Leader LEFEVRE, 126 Squadron awarded the D.F.C. in November 1941. He returned to England at the end of December 1941
Pilot Officer P.G. LEGGETT, joined 249 Squadron in July 1941. On 21st December 1941 whilst flying a Hurricane in combat against incoming enemy bombers and fighters his aircraft was shot down. He managed to bale out and land safely then was taken to hospital
Douglas LEGGO, Pilot Officer, 80356, from Rhodesia, pilot with 249 Squadron at Ta Kali. On 20th March 1942, the first raid of the day by German aircraft started at 08.00 hours and lasted five hours. Ju-88’s were bombing Valletta, Sliema, St.Julians, Hamrun and Zeitun. Fighter aircraft were scrambled. His aircraft was attacked by ME-109’s and lost its tail fin causing it to spin downwards. He tried to regain control but without success, and had to bale out. By this time he was too low, around 100 feet, so the parachute didn’t have time to open and he fell to his death
Constantino LEIA, F54342, born November 1890, labourer. He enlisted in the Royal Naval Air Service on 22nd March 1918. On the 1st April 1918 the Royal Naval Air Service was amalgamated with the Royal Flying Corps to form the Royal Air Force and he was transferred to the RAF
Flying Officer G.J. LEMAR, pilot of Bristol Beaufighter that arrived from England via Gibraltar May 1941
Group Captain W.R. LeMAY OBE, became Station Commander at Luqa Royal Air Force base, September 1942 until 28th January 1943
Sergeant LEONARD, R.A.F., on board a Wellington of the Overseas Air Delivery Unit, which was shot down in flames about 90 miles from Kalafrana, on 15th November 1941. The aircraft ditched successfully and all on board transferred to a dinghy and were later picked up by Royal Air Force Search and Rescue launch HSL128
Sergeant George LESLIE, Navigator with 227 Beaufighter Squadron was shot down on 20th August 1942 off Kalafrana Bay and was killed. His pilot Flying Officer Eyre was rescued by high-speed launch
Pilot Officer Howard C. LESTER, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 605 Squadron
Bristol Blenheim Sergeant Jack LEVY, 548053, a Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, 69 Squadron. His Martin Maryland aircraft left Luqa on a reconnaissance flight to Taomina, but was attacked by enemy aircraft, 7th May 1941. He was killed inside the plane by the enemy fire. The other two men on board were the pilot Flying Officer John Boys-Stones, and Observer Sergeant J.M. Alexander. Sergeant Alexander managed to bale out and survived, but by the time the pilot tried to bale out from the blazing aircraft it was too low, his parachute didn’t open correctly, and he died shortly afterwards from his wounds. The plane crashed near Rabat
Richard LEWES, Flying Officer, Royal Air Force, died 29th January 1925. Killed whilst flying at Hal Far Aerodrome. Born 19th February 1903, the younger son of John Herbert Lewes of Calcutta and Folkestone
Sergeant Raymond Mayhew LEWIN G.C., Wellington pilot with Special Flight 451, born in Kettering. Northants, on 14th January 1915. About half an hour before midnight on the 3rd November 1940 a Flight of Wellington bombers prepared to take off from Luqa airfield each carrying a full load of bombs on a mission to attack the city of Naples.
The first aircraft became airborne and headed for Italy, the second Wellington (T2743) piloted by Sergeant Lewin failed to get higher than about 500 feet when it started to go down, and crashed in open ground near Tal Handaq, and burst into flames. Realizing that the aircraft had full petrol tanks and a number of bombs, he told his crew to get out of the area as quickly as possible.
He was injured with a smashed kneecap, and wounds to his legs and face, but went to the aid of Pilot Officer David Allen who was lying badly injured beneath one of the wings of the burning aircraft. He managed to pull his injured colleague into a hole about forty yards from the blaze and lay on top of him just as the bombs exploded.
For his bravery he was awarded the George Cross, but sadly Pilot Officer Allen died from his wounds. Three other members of the crew survived this horrendous event, Leading Aircraftsman John Hollingworth, Sergeant Archibald Hunter and Sergeant Thomas Reay
About half an hour later, the fourth Wellington in this Flight crashed onto houses in Qormi
Pilot Officer H.J. LEWIS, a Navigator with 227 Beaufighter Squadron. His aircraft did not return from a flying mission, but he was taken Prisoner-of-War on 20th January 1943
Wing Commander J.R.H. LEWIS DFC, took over as Commanding Officer of 249 Squadron at Hal Far, on 20th November 1945
Sergeant P. LILLYWHITE, a Hurricane pilot, with 185 Squadron at Hal Far, early July 1941
E. LINDLEY, AM1, Fleet Air Arm, died 12th August 1942, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Indomitable. His ship was part of the escort for Operation ‘Pedestal’ from Gibraltar. In the late afternoon twelve German Ju-87 aircraft attacked the carrier and she suffered serious damage from the bombs. One hit the forward AA gun positions killing more than twenty of the Royal Marines detachment. Another landed near the forward lift and penetrated the upper gallery deck and exploded above the main hangar deck. The wardroom was crowded with off-duty pilots and observers when it was wrecked by a bomb killing all the occupants. The ship survived the onslaught and headed for Gibraltar
Flying Officer Alec LINDSAY, Spitfire pilot, 185 Squadron. In combat with enemy aircraft early in he morning on 23rd October 1942, shot down and killed
W.C. LINDSAY, AM2, Fleet Air Arm, died 12th August 1942, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Indomitable. His ship was part of the escort for Operation ‘Pedestal’ from Gibraltar. In the late afternoon twelve German Ju-87 aircraft attacked the carrier and she suffered serious damage from the bombs. One hit the forward AA gun positions killing more than twenty of the Royal Marines detachment. Another landed near the forward lift and penetrated the upper gallery deck and exploded above the main hangar deck. The wardroom was crowded with off-duty pilots and observers when it was wrecked by a bomb killing all the occupants. The ship survived the onslaught and headed for Gibraltar
Rhona LINDUP, born 15th April 1931, the daughter of Gladys and Squadron Leader Charles Arthur Lindup, RAF base Calafrana, RAF Medical Service
Pilot Officer Donald William LINTERN, 60079, Hurricane pilot, 185 Squadron, shot down North of Gozo, 29th September 1941. He baled out but his body was never found. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Pilot Officer LINTON, from Canada, pilot with 249 Squadron in the Summer of 1942 at Ta Kali airfield
Frederick LISTER, in command of 152 Spitfire Squadron at Ta Kali airfield June 1943
John LITTLE, Wireless Op./Air Gunner with 69 Squadron in September 1942
Sergeant Alexander LIVINGSTON, 742426, Hurricane pilot, joined 261 Squadron at the beginning of March 1941, and died 18th June 1941, aged 24 years. He baled out from his damaged Hurricane, but tragically he was too low for his parachute to fully open the fall killed him
C.D. LIVINGSTONE, Sub-Lieutenant (A), Fleet Air Arm, died 30th June 1941, of the Aircraft Carrier HMS Furious
Group Captain G.E. LIVOCK, arrived from Gibraltar by Sunderland, to become the new C.O. at RAF Kalafrana, on 5th January 1941, officially took command on the 10th
Air Vice-Marshall Hugh Pughe LLOYD, took over as Air Officer Commanding, Royal Air Force Malta, on 1st June 1941, was posted on 14th July 1942. He was later Knighted on 31st July for his services
Corporal F.H. LOCKWOOD, 545564, serving at Kalafrana RAF Base, killed 8th May 1942
Sergeant G. LOCKWOOD, flew a Hurricane off HMS Ark Royal, 3rd April 1941 to increase the number of aircraft on Malta
John LODGE, Intelligence Officer with 249 Squadron in summer 1942 at Ta Kali
Roy Frederick LOMAS, of full age, bachelor, Leading Aircraftsman, the son of Frederick Arthur Lomas, married 5th May 1969, to Margaret Cassandra CRAIG, of full age, the daughter of Thomas Alexander Craig, at St. Christopher’s Station Church, Luqa Aerodrome. The ceremony was performed by the Reverend Peter Owen Winfield Levingston, RAF Chaplain
Leading Aircraftsman James Henry LONGMORE, Royal Air Force, died on board HMS Illustrious, 10th January 1941. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Miss LONGYEAR, a Plotter with RAF Fighter Control No.8 Sector Operations Room based in Lascaris Bastion, Valletta in June 1942
Wilfred C. LOTT, Flight Lieutenant, Royal Air Force, killed in a seaplane accident 6.30 a.m. on Saturday 20th July 1918, at Calafrana. Aged 22 years, the son of George and Mary Lott, of Wingham, Ontario, Canada
Flight Sub-Lieutenant W.C. LOTT, died Saturday 20th July 1918, the pilot of a seaplane which crashed. The observer was injured and taken to Bighi Royal Naval Hospital
H.N. LOUDON, Sub-Lieutenant (A), Fleet Air Arm, died 10th January 1941, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Illustrious. Whilst on convoy protection duty the ship came under attack from German Ju-87 and Ju-88 aircraft, and was hit six times in a ten minute period. Extensively damaged and still on fire the crippled ship managed to get into Grand Harbour and dock at the Parlatorio Wharf. More than 210 members of the crew were killed or wounded
Squadron Leader A.E. LOUKS, Engineering Officer at Hal Far airfield in June 1940
Squadron Leader A.D. LOVELL DFC, a Battle of Britain veteran, became Commanding Officer of 1435 Squadron, based at Luqa Royal Air Force station in July 1942
Flight Sergeant Gordon Albert LOWE, from Canada, a Navigator in Blenheim’s, with 18 Squadron. His aircraft was attacking enemy shipping near Benghazi, when they were shot down and died 5th November 1941. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Flight Lieutenant John Joseph LOWE, pilot of Bristol Beaufighter that arrived from England via Gibraltar on 1st May 1941, with twelve others. A member of 252 Squadron, on 10th May 1941 his aircraft was believed to have been shot down by a German Ju-88, since it failed to return. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial in Floriana
Pilot Officer Peter W. LOWE, Hurricane pilot, took off from an aircraft carrier for Malta and arrived 12th November 1941, with 605 Squadron
Pilot Officer Walter Hugh LOWE, Blenheim pilot with 110 Squadron. On the 9th July 1941 he was taking part in a raid on shipping in Tripoli harbour and was reported missing with all the crew. Remembered on the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial at Floriana
Vickers Wellington Pilot Officer LOWERY, pilot with 249 Squadron in October 1942
Squadron Leader W.E.M. LOWREY, the pilot of a Martin Maryland aircraft of 69 Squadron, on 15th February 1942, having sighted 3 Italian Cruisers and 6 Italian Destroyers, decided to return to the base in Malta. The port engine failed, and they were attacked by German fighter aircraft that damaged the starboard wing and ailerons with cannon fire. The starboard window was shot away, the Gunner’s cockpit smashed, and the petrol tank was also hit. The aircraft went into a spin, but he managed to gain control and get into some cloud cover. About 12 miles from the Maltese coast, they were attacked again by enemy aircraft and suffered machine gun fire which caused further damage, the instrument panel and even the pilot’s helmet and goggles were hit. The starboard engine stopped so he had to ditch into the sea off Benghisa, and in the process part of the starboard wing and rudder fell off. Whilst other planes circled overhead a launch rescued the four man crew
J.M. LUCAS, Sub-Lieutenant (A), RNVR, Fleet Air Arm, died 12th August 1942, on board the Aircraft Carrier HMS Indomitable. His ship was part of the escort for Operation ‘Pedestal’ from Gibraltar. In the late afternoon twelve German Ju-87 aircraft attacked the carrier and she suffered serious damage from the bombs. One hit the forward AA gun positions killing more than twenty of the Royal Marines detachment. Another landed near the forward lift and penetrated the upper gallery deck and exploded above the main hangar deck. The wardroom was crowded with off-duty pilots and observers when it was wrecked by a bomb killing all the occupants. The ship survived the onslaught and headed for Gibraltar
P.B. LUCAS CBE DSO DFC, Flight Commander of 249 Squadron at Ta Kali in May 1942. He returned to England early Autumn 1942. After leaving the RAF in 1946 he joined the Greyhound Racing Association, becoming Managing Director in 1957. He became the Conservative Member of Parliament for the constituency of Brentford & Chiswick at the 1950 election and served for almost ten years
Harold Featherstone LUCK, aged 44 years, bachelor, Flight Lieutenant, Royal Air Force, RAF Station Hal Far, the son of Henry Featherstone Luck, married 30th April 1935, to Patience Isabel Pingo GALPINE, aged 40 years, widow, of 34 Strada Genio, Valletta, the daughter of John Lloyd BUCKNALL
Leading Aircraftsman Gerald Douglas Quagen LUMSDEN, aged 24 years, bachelor, RAF base Calafrana, the son of Richard Lumsden, married 2nd February 1935 to Olga Eleanor FROESE, aged 28 years, spinster, the daughter of Herman Rudolf Otto Froese deceased
Squadron Leader John Joseph LYNCH, an American from Alhambra, California. A Spitfire pilot commanding 249 Squadron in early 1943. While based at Krendi, he was credited with having shot down the 1000th enemy aircraft over Malta on 10th May 1943. On handing over command of 249 Squadron in July he transferred to the USAAF with the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel
Sergeant Robert W. LYNDALL, Wireless Operator/Air Gunner, with 105 Blenheim Squadron, arrived at Luqa airfield July 1941
Flying Officer A.M.G. LYWOOD, Sunderland flying boat pilot, July 1940
TSR Swordfish ranged on the flight deck of HMS Ark Royal |
