79 Squadron Royal Air Force.
The following pages contain the history of 79 Fighter Squadron. Most information taken from official records, whilst others taken from personal experiences. Also included are the `Memories of a few ex members of the Squadron of the War days, together with the list of names of those still in contact and some poems, written or supplied by them.
The Squadron, was formed on the 1st August 1917 at Gosport, under the command of Capt. Williams. On the August 8th the unit moved to Beaulieu now commanded by Major M.W. Noel where it trained for 'ops' until the 15th December when it got it's Sopwith Dolphins.
Service was seen in France proceeding there on the 18h February 1918 landing at Le Harve, remaining there for only two days before leaving for St Omar only to leave again for Blanhe on the 22nd where it was made ready for Active duties. Finally moved to Champion on the 5th March joining 9 Wing and commenced work over enemy lines. On the 22nd March the squadron brought down its first enemy aircraft this side of the line. At the end of March the squadron was forced to move owing to the German Offensive, going to Villers Brettoneauxc staying only one night owing to the same cause combined with heavy bombing. The unit then went on to Beaufois where it stayed for about seven weeks. During this time it suffered heavy casualties due to engine trouble, low flying shoot-ups, which was necessary with the enemys advance. Due to this advance very little was achieved up to the time of their arrival at St.Marie Chappel.
On June 23rd 1918, Major A.R.Arnold took command of the squadron from Major M.W.Noel who was posted to Home Establishment, Montrose, Scotland. The mechanics now had considerable trouble with the engine and a good Technical Sergeant Major, A.Nocol was procured from 60 Squadron and with the moving warfare now at an end on this front the squadron now commenced to have much great success. The squadron remained at St Marie Chappel until 22nd October 1918 when it moved to Reckemnear Halliam, with the advance of the 2nd Army. Records show that from their arrival at St Marie Chappel the number of enemy aircraft, 57, were destroyed and 9 Hostile Kite Balloons burnt. The unit was credited with:- 64 enemy aircraft (57 in one six month period) and 8 Kite balloons destroyed. The Squadron moved on to Nivelles with the Armistice on the 26th November 1918 and then to Bickendorf near Cologne on the 20th December with the Army of Occupation The unit was dissolved on 15th July 1919.
The unit was reformed again at Biggin Hill on the 22nd. March 1937 being equipped with Gloster Gauntlet aircraft. In December 1939 these a/c were exchanged for Hurricanes and shortly after which the unit moved to Manston. Identification letters used at this time were:- A.L. but with the outbreak of the World War 2 the letters were changed to N.V. In September 1939 the unit was again stationed at Biggin Hill and had the honour of destroying the first enemy aircraft in England whilst being attached to the now famous 11 Group. This being on the 21st. November 1939 when F/O J.W.Davies and Sgt Brown shot down a Dornier 17, near Manston. Parts of this aircraft were kept for the crew-room. The first enemy aircraft shot down in the war being in Scotland by No.603 Sqdn.
On May 10th. 1940, the Squadron was sent to France at the time of the German invasion of the Low Countries and commenced operations immediately using three different airfields in ten days. Their 'bag' in France was 25 enemy aircraft destroyed with a further 11 probables.
Recalled to England on the 20th. May and from that time, with the exception of a few days rest, operated from Biggin Hill until 10th. July when a move was made to Turnhouse (Edinburgh) but after a few days were again moved this time to Ackington. From this point they took part in many successful actions over the North East Coast of England and the North Sea.
On the 27th. August 1940 they returned to Biggin Hill where they operated until 9th. September when they were sent to Pembrey in South Wales. They were to remain at this point for a year and were not only to receive more intensive training but also to take part in many successful combats, in both day and night actions. Convoy duties over the Western Approaches were carried out on a very large scale. During this period the Sqdn obtained a valuable victory when F/O G.L. Hayson shot down a Ju.88 on the 20th. November 1940. This enemy a/c had been photographing the damage caused by that intensive air-raid on Coventry and Group had order this Ju.88 to be destroyed at all costs.
On the 14th June 1941the Squadron moved to Fairwood Common near Swansea. Not a great deal of action recorded at this point but on the 18th. the unit took part in a large scale raid against Brest. On the 28th December on the move again, this time to Baginton near Coventry, where the Squadron was re-equipped for 'Overseas Service'. .
The Squadron's record of victories up until the time of leaving England was:- 76 enemy a/c destroyed, 44 probables and 15 damaged. Unfortunately some 25 pilots were lost during this period.
Overseas Service.
****************
Sailed from Liverpool in the March of 1942 0n the ss "Empress of Russia", although not known at the time the Squadron was destined for India via South Africa
After a short but pleasant stay in Durban, the Sqdn left South Africa, on the 'Ile de France' arriving in Bombay on the 20th May 1942. Ground staff proceeded by train from Bombay to Kanchrapara near Kankinara (just north of Calcutta,) whilst the pilots went by boat to Karachi to collect the squadron's new aircraft., Hurricane 2c's. Several weeks spent at Kanchrapara until at last the unit came to 'readiness' for the first time in India on the 26th. July. On the 14th December 1942 the squadron moved to Chittagong on the coast of Bengal, becoming part of 224 Group. On the 15th. December came the first operation since the squadron's arrival in India. On this occasion, two Japanese bomber squadrons, with fighter escort attacked the base airfield of Chittagong. In the ensuing combat, the squadron shot down 3 bombers and damaged 2 more.
On the 2nd. January 1943 another move, this time to Dohazari but stay was short lived, for a move was made to HAY and LYONS (Ramu area of the Arakan Front) Living conditions in the Arakan were very primitive. During this period the main duties were to support the Army by attacking the advancing Japanese Forces and a good 'bag' was taken in the way of:- Railway rolling stock, motor transport and river craft, not to mention enemy troops. The first battle of the Arakan was now in full swing and a number of g/crew were injured (number unknown) fortunately only one was killed, namely Billy Price a Welsh lad. It was with the approach of the Monsoon that the Sqdn was forced to pull out to Comilla, arriving there on the 25th. May. From this point duties were in the main bomber escort.
July saw us at Ranchi (Bihar State), approx. 260 miles north/west of Calcutta, for the obviously needed rest and re-equipping, etc., and the necessary overhauling of the a/c. Sqdn was 'stood down' but took part in extensive Army co-operations training known as 'War Games'. The experience gained in this was to prove of immense value in our later close support 'ops' with the 14th. Army.
On the 25th. September Sqdn was posted to Alipore (Calcutta) for the defence thereof. The big famine was to be seen at first hand during our short stay at this point, when thousands of natives died each day, the bodies being collected by bullock carts each evening. No attacks were made against Calcutta during this period and the only enemy action was a daily enemy 'reccie'. To try and stop this, two Hurricanes were stripped of; cockpit armour, radio and two of the 20mm cannons but this was without effect, as our Hurricanes were left standing. We saw a Sqdn of Spitfires arrive and the daily visit of the 'reccie' stopped, probably due to their arrival. On the move shortly after this, going forward to Chittagong;- the main party of the Squadron going by boat from Calcutta docks. These docks were bombed on the day of the sqdn's departure. The ship taking the vacated place of the ship on which the Sqdn sailed was bombed. As I said stay at Alipore was short and the end of November saw us again at Chittagong, where we were to spend Xmas 1943. The Japanese didn't let Xmas pass without incident and they paid a visit on Boxing Day. A high light of this period was the visit of Lord Louis Mountbatten the Commander in Chief on the 13th December 1943. He was escorted in by 79 Squadron and later escorted on his tour of the Arakan.
The 27th. January 1943 saw us back at Dohazari and the second battle of the Arakan at it's height. Now the unit was continuously flying night and day but with the arrival of the Spitfire on the Front, the Hurricanes were used mainly to support the Army by attacking air/ground on enemy positions in co-op with the Army, also attacking L of C. Transport etc. Pilots took turns of going forward into Army positions and 'talking' the Sqdn on to any targets giving trouble. Another important duty was the escorting of 'Daks' on their supply dropping runs. Although not a very spectacular job a most essential one, for as you are no doubt aware with the denseness of the jungle and the lack of roads etc., the only practical way was by air. With the advent of the Kohima/Imphal battles, troops were brought out of the Arakan battle area to our strip. They were loaded to Transport Command 'Dak's' and USAAF Commando and Skymaster aircraft then transported with full equipment to the necessary areas. This operation took days as it was a the fully equipped 5th Indian Division that was moved. Our unit played a big part in trying to assure this operation went smoothly.
On the 26th May 1944 it was a very tired and under strength Sqdn that was withdrawn from the Arakan. On a troop train the move was made to Yelehanka (Bangalore), a journey that was to take seven days and nights for the rest, re-equipping and re-enforcing very necessary. Many signals were received from both the Army High Command and the A.O.C., Bengal , one being listed below dated 11th. June; Quote:-
ON THE OCCASION OF YOUR BEING WITHDRAWN FROM THE FORWARD AREAS FOR REST AND TRAINING I WISH TO SEND MY WARMEST CONGRATULATIONS ON THE MAGNIFICENT SHOW YOUR SQUADRON PUT UP IN OPERATIONS IN THE ARAKAN IN THE LAST SIX MONTHS. YOUR GAME BAG IS HIGHER THAN ANY OTHER SQUADRON. WELL DONE . I KNOW THAT WHEN YOU RETURN TO ACTION NEXT DRY SEASON YOUR PILOTS WILL GIVE AS GOOD AGAIN. PLEASE ALSO CONGRATULATE YOUR GROUND CREWS ON THE VERY HIGH STATE OF SERVICEABILITY THEY MAINTAINED.
(This is only one of the many signals received)
It was also after this campaign that Group gave us the 'honour ' and with it permission to wear a special silver badge on their breast pocket, this depicting the Squadron Crest, for the work done with the Army on the Arakan.
At Yelehanka the Squadron lost their faithful old Hurricanes and got the Republic P47 Mk1 Thunderbolt in their place. Moved on the 17th. September to Arkonam to make room for other unit re-equipping and for our pilots to get in flying hours on the new a/c. Very short time spent here as in October another move was made by train (10 days this time) to the Manipur Road strip (Dimapur) Assam, the unit came to 'readiness' and started . 'op's' on the 1st. November. On two occasions I noted during this journey, once on an unknown railway station between Calcutta and Dimapur and again on the road as we left Dimapur on the road to Kohima a sign that read:-
Through These Portals Pass The Finest Fighting Men In The World. The Fourteenth Army
Those words have always stuck in my mind.
As the Japanese Army retreated we pushed forward again. On the 19th November 1943 over the Imphal range into the Imphal Valley to a place named Wangjing. This move was made by 'road' with Flt/Lt Ray K.Love as officer i/c. he was also 'B' Flight Commander. (An Australian who was to become a very close friend and was to keep in touch over the years). We were to travel over a single track road with sheer drops of hundreds of feet on one side for a distance of some hundred odd miles. This passed without incident. thank goodness. At Wangjing, we were to start losing our 'Married men' as they became TX. (Tour Expired) and they left the unit for their return to Blighty. They were replaced by men who in the main had come straight off the 'boat. Big changes were also being made to our aircraft; these being 'replaced by later Mk2's and Mk3's as they became available.
The Squadron was now flying every minute of the daylight hours, starting at first light (approx. 4am) - the last 'op' returning with the failing light (approx. 8pm) No flare paths on these jungle dirt strips. 'Stand down' days were now few and far between, so rest days also ceased. Long range 'strikes' were now possible as overload tanks were now being fitted and a/c often only on the ground long enough to enable them to be re-fueled and re-armed.. At Wangjing we were joined by two other squadrons, 146 and 261 both Thunderbolt units thus forming 910 Wing, 221 Group, 3rd T.A.F, with Group Chacksfield as the OC. At first the our Wing concentrated on strafing attacks but after 28th. November, bombing attacks were being made on a regular basis. With this, targets became varied and the Wing would operate as a unit or as a Squadron giving close support to the Army over minimal clearances. It should be noted that 79 Squadron was able to break the wall of Fort Dufferin (Mandalay) by using 1,000 bombs after the Army had failed to breach this wall using Artillery pieces, firing at close range with 'open sights'. Our C.O. 'Gatty' May, an Australian was awarded the D.S.O. for leading this action. Wangjing was one of the best places we were ever stationed, due to the climate and the temperature, it got cool in the evenings so that the necessary 'sleeves and slacks' were comfortable and for the first time in our Indian service a blanket was pulled on one at night.
Move made to Myingyan on the 19th. April. In contrast to Wangjing this was the worst place ever. Spinal and Cerebral malaria was in evidence so precautions had to adhered too. Drinking water was in short supply and the quality was very bad. Whilst it came as usual from the dirty jungle pools here it had a natural salt content and made your thirst even worse. Another thing was the millions, I mean millions, of flies. They were everywhere, this was due to the large number of unburied Japanese bodies in the area. With this and the bad water , dysentery and such like were rife. It is little wonder moral was very low and even the news that the European War had ended did little to improve the low moral of anyone. Efforts were made by the 'Radio bod's', by rigging up a old speaker so we were able to hear the celebrations in London but if anything this made it worse.
It was a great relief that on the 21st. June we were on the move again this time to Meiktila, which was to prove to be our last station in Burma. Again hundreds of Japanese bodies in evidence but these were 'turned in' by `Bulldozer? into the monsoon trenches. Movement anywhere had to be within the tapes put out by the Engineers as the whole area was mined. The war was still at it's height upon our arrival at Meiktila so flying hours were kept at maximum as the Japanese Army was trapped in the Sittang.. This was a major battle and is now known as; ?The Last Battle?. As this progressed the Wing was being prepared for the invasion of Malaya but thankfully hostilities ceased before this happened. As you are aware the war finished officially on August 15th. but the Japanese in the Sittang would not believe their Emperor would ever surrender, so continued fighting well into September, with pockets resisting even longer. The last recorded action against the Japanese troops by 79 Squadron was a bombing raid near Shwgyin on the 20th August 1945.
Many signals were received during this period from Group and the Army themselves. These told of what our Sqdn's efforts had achieved i.e.:- damage to installations, amount of equipment and materials destroyed , number of enemy troops killed and the most important in my opinion , the assistance and the relieving of out troops when they needed it. You will realize how gratifying this was to the poor old ground crew who were told nothing. During the service of 79 Sqdn in S.E.A.C., we had personnel from many of the Dominions serving with the air crew; Australia, Canada, New Zealand and South Africa, even an American together with boys from all parts of the UK. Our losses in the Far East theatre of war were: 15 pilots and 2 ground staff. Again I do not have figures of the numbers wounded or lost through illness.
The Squadron's bag for the India/Burma period was; 12 enemy aircraft destroyed, 5 probables and 5 damaged. Aircraft destroyed on the ground are not included in these figures.. Main duties in the later part of this conflict was Army Support and in this 79 was probably the most successful unit in the Burma theatre. So it came to be that the squadron was disbanded on the 30th. December 1945.
Post War Service
****************
The Squadron was again reformed on 15th. November 1946 at Buckeburg with the 2nd TAF. in Germany as a Fighter 'recon' unit, flying Meteor FR.9s. Their next move was to Gutersloh and then on the Laarbruch. In 1956 it was re-equipped with the Swift FR5 and subsequently with the Hunter. The squadron was now one of the top fighter 'reccie' units in the 2nd TAF but the shrinking of the front line Forces brought about yet another disbandment of the unit in December 1960.
On January 1st. 1967 the Sqdn reformed yet again , this time as a Reserve Squadron at No.229, OCU, Chievenor operating Hunter a/c and a few Meteors. Following the closure of Chievenor and the simultaneous forming of the Tactical Weapons Unit at RAF Brawdy, 79, flying Hunter's continued to give specialist training to experienced pilots in all forms of current tactical fighter operations.
In 1979 the Squadron were operating Hawk Mk1 in addition to the Hunter. These types of a/c were operated side by side to refresh not only pilots prior to Front Line service but also to train the embryo of T.W.U Instructors.
In May 1980 the two remaining Meteors at RAF Brawdy came under the auspices of the Sqdn. These a/c were used for the target towing duties. In September 1980 three Jet Provost Mk4 and their pilots joined the Sqdn. These a/c were flown to provide training for students attending the Joint Forward Air Control Training and Standardization Unit. (JFACTSU)
Thus at the end of 1980, 79 Squadron had the distinction of operating four different types of a/c to meet the demands of several roles.
In 1992 the Squadron was again disbanded. under the Govt. Defence Cuts. So to date 1993 that ends the history of 79 Squadron. It was noted whilst attending this event at Brawdy the title of 'Madras Presidency' had been dropped but the 1914/18 war markings of the Two Red Arrows again adorned the a/c and the Sqdn 'Salamander' crest was also carried on the fuselage --- the first mentioned just forward of the cockpit. and another on the tail stabiliser.
A few aircraft numbers (Thunderbolts) have just come to hand;- NV.A, HD 270. - NV.L, KL.231 - NV.N, KJ.202 - NV.R, HD.301 - NV.S, KL.174 - NV.X, KJ 355 - NV.Z, 291.
Service was seen in France proceeding there on the 18h February 1918 landing at Le Harve, remaining there for only two days before leaving for St Omar only to leave again for Blanhe on the 22nd where it was made ready for Active duties. Finally moved to Champion on the 5th March joining 9 Wing and commenced work over enemy lines. On the 22nd March the squadron brought down its first enemy aircraft this side of the line. At the end of March the squadron was forced to move owing to the German Offensive, going to Villers Brettoneauxc staying only one night owing to the same cause combined with heavy bombing. The unit then went on to Beaufois where it stayed for about seven weeks. During this time it suffered heavy casualties due to engine trouble, low flying shoot-ups, which was necessary with the enemys advance. Due to this advance very little was achieved up to the time of their arrival at St.Marie Chappel.
On June 23rd 1918, Major A.R.Arnold took command of the squadron from Major M.W.Noel who was posted to Home Establishment, Montrose, Scotland. The mechanics now had considerable trouble with the engine and a good Technical Sergeant Major, A.Nocol was procured from 60 Squadron and with the moving warfare now at an end on this front the squadron now commenced to have much great success. The squadron remained at St Marie Chappel until 22nd October 1918 when it moved to Reckemnear Halliam, with the advance of the 2nd Army. Records show that from their arrival at St Marie Chappel the number of enemy aircraft, 57, were destroyed and 9 Hostile Kite Balloons burnt. The unit was credited with:- 64 enemy aircraft (57 in one six month period) and 8 Kite balloons destroyed. The Squadron moved on to Nivelles with the Armistice on the 26th November 1918 and then to Bickendorf near Cologne on the 20th December with the Army of Occupation The unit was dissolved on 15th July 1919.
The unit was reformed again at Biggin Hill on the 22nd. March 1937 being equipped with Gloster Gauntlet aircraft. In December 1939 these a/c were exchanged for Hurricanes and shortly after which the unit moved to Manston. Identification letters used at this time were:- A.L. but with the outbreak of the World War 2 the letters were changed to N.V. In September 1939 the unit was again stationed at Biggin Hill and had the honour of destroying the first enemy aircraft in England whilst being attached to the now famous 11 Group. This being on the 21st. November 1939 when F/O J.W.Davies and Sgt Brown shot down a Dornier 17, near Manston. Parts of this aircraft were kept for the crew-room. The first enemy aircraft shot down in the war being in Scotland by No.603 Sqdn.
On May 10th. 1940, the Squadron was sent to France at the time of the German invasion of the Low Countries and commenced operations immediately using three different airfields in ten days. Their 'bag' in France was 25 enemy aircraft destroyed with a further 11 probables.
Recalled to England on the 20th. May and from that time, with the exception of a few days rest, operated from Biggin Hill until 10th. July when a move was made to Turnhouse (Edinburgh) but after a few days were again moved this time to Ackington. From this point they took part in many successful actions over the North East Coast of England and the North Sea.
On the 27th. August 1940 they returned to Biggin Hill where they operated until 9th. September when they were sent to Pembrey in South Wales. They were to remain at this point for a year and were not only to receive more intensive training but also to take part in many successful combats, in both day and night actions. Convoy duties over the Western Approaches were carried out on a very large scale. During this period the Sqdn obtained a valuable victory when F/O G.L. Hayson shot down a Ju.88 on the 20th. November 1940. This enemy a/c had been photographing the damage caused by that intensive air-raid on Coventry and Group had order this Ju.88 to be destroyed at all costs.
On the 14th June 1941the Squadron moved to Fairwood Common near Swansea. Not a great deal of action recorded at this point but on the 18th. the unit took part in a large scale raid against Brest. On the 28th December on the move again, this time to Baginton near Coventry, where the Squadron was re-equipped for 'Overseas Service'. .
The Squadron's record of victories up until the time of leaving England was:- 76 enemy a/c destroyed, 44 probables and 15 damaged. Unfortunately some 25 pilots were lost during this period.
Overseas Service.
****************
Sailed from Liverpool in the March of 1942 0n the ss "Empress of Russia", although not known at the time the Squadron was destined for India via South Africa
After a short but pleasant stay in Durban, the Sqdn left South Africa, on the 'Ile de France' arriving in Bombay on the 20th May 1942. Ground staff proceeded by train from Bombay to Kanchrapara near Kankinara (just north of Calcutta,) whilst the pilots went by boat to Karachi to collect the squadron's new aircraft., Hurricane 2c's. Several weeks spent at Kanchrapara until at last the unit came to 'readiness' for the first time in India on the 26th. July. On the 14th December 1942 the squadron moved to Chittagong on the coast of Bengal, becoming part of 224 Group. On the 15th. December came the first operation since the squadron's arrival in India. On this occasion, two Japanese bomber squadrons, with fighter escort attacked the base airfield of Chittagong. In the ensuing combat, the squadron shot down 3 bombers and damaged 2 more.
On the 2nd. January 1943 another move, this time to Dohazari but stay was short lived, for a move was made to HAY and LYONS (Ramu area of the Arakan Front) Living conditions in the Arakan were very primitive. During this period the main duties were to support the Army by attacking the advancing Japanese Forces and a good 'bag' was taken in the way of:- Railway rolling stock, motor transport and river craft, not to mention enemy troops. The first battle of the Arakan was now in full swing and a number of g/crew were injured (number unknown) fortunately only one was killed, namely Billy Price a Welsh lad. It was with the approach of the Monsoon that the Sqdn was forced to pull out to Comilla, arriving there on the 25th. May. From this point duties were in the main bomber escort.
July saw us at Ranchi (Bihar State), approx. 260 miles north/west of Calcutta, for the obviously needed rest and re-equipping, etc., and the necessary overhauling of the a/c. Sqdn was 'stood down' but took part in extensive Army co-operations training known as 'War Games'. The experience gained in this was to prove of immense value in our later close support 'ops' with the 14th. Army.
On the 25th. September Sqdn was posted to Alipore (Calcutta) for the defence thereof. The big famine was to be seen at first hand during our short stay at this point, when thousands of natives died each day, the bodies being collected by bullock carts each evening. No attacks were made against Calcutta during this period and the only enemy action was a daily enemy 'reccie'. To try and stop this, two Hurricanes were stripped of; cockpit armour, radio and two of the 20mm cannons but this was without effect, as our Hurricanes were left standing. We saw a Sqdn of Spitfires arrive and the daily visit of the 'reccie' stopped, probably due to their arrival. On the move shortly after this, going forward to Chittagong;- the main party of the Squadron going by boat from Calcutta docks. These docks were bombed on the day of the sqdn's departure. The ship taking the vacated place of the ship on which the Sqdn sailed was bombed. As I said stay at Alipore was short and the end of November saw us again at Chittagong, where we were to spend Xmas 1943. The Japanese didn't let Xmas pass without incident and they paid a visit on Boxing Day. A high light of this period was the visit of Lord Louis Mountbatten the Commander in Chief on the 13th December 1943. He was escorted in by 79 Squadron and later escorted on his tour of the Arakan.
The 27th. January 1943 saw us back at Dohazari and the second battle of the Arakan at it's height. Now the unit was continuously flying night and day but with the arrival of the Spitfire on the Front, the Hurricanes were used mainly to support the Army by attacking air/ground on enemy positions in co-op with the Army, also attacking L of C. Transport etc. Pilots took turns of going forward into Army positions and 'talking' the Sqdn on to any targets giving trouble. Another important duty was the escorting of 'Daks' on their supply dropping runs. Although not a very spectacular job a most essential one, for as you are no doubt aware with the denseness of the jungle and the lack of roads etc., the only practical way was by air. With the advent of the Kohima/Imphal battles, troops were brought out of the Arakan battle area to our strip. They were loaded to Transport Command 'Dak's' and USAAF Commando and Skymaster aircraft then transported with full equipment to the necessary areas. This operation took days as it was a the fully equipped 5th Indian Division that was moved. Our unit played a big part in trying to assure this operation went smoothly.
On the 26th May 1944 it was a very tired and under strength Sqdn that was withdrawn from the Arakan. On a troop train the move was made to Yelehanka (Bangalore), a journey that was to take seven days and nights for the rest, re-equipping and re-enforcing very necessary. Many signals were received from both the Army High Command and the A.O.C., Bengal , one being listed below dated 11th. June; Quote:-
ON THE OCCASION OF YOUR BEING WITHDRAWN FROM THE FORWARD AREAS FOR REST AND TRAINING I WISH TO SEND MY WARMEST CONGRATULATIONS ON THE MAGNIFICENT SHOW YOUR SQUADRON PUT UP IN OPERATIONS IN THE ARAKAN IN THE LAST SIX MONTHS. YOUR GAME BAG IS HIGHER THAN ANY OTHER SQUADRON. WELL DONE . I KNOW THAT WHEN YOU RETURN TO ACTION NEXT DRY SEASON YOUR PILOTS WILL GIVE AS GOOD AGAIN. PLEASE ALSO CONGRATULATE YOUR GROUND CREWS ON THE VERY HIGH STATE OF SERVICEABILITY THEY MAINTAINED.
(This is only one of the many signals received)
It was also after this campaign that Group gave us the 'honour ' and with it permission to wear a special silver badge on their breast pocket, this depicting the Squadron Crest, for the work done with the Army on the Arakan.
At Yelehanka the Squadron lost their faithful old Hurricanes and got the Republic P47 Mk1 Thunderbolt in their place. Moved on the 17th. September to Arkonam to make room for other unit re-equipping and for our pilots to get in flying hours on the new a/c. Very short time spent here as in October another move was made by train (10 days this time) to the Manipur Road strip (Dimapur) Assam, the unit came to 'readiness' and started . 'op's' on the 1st. November. On two occasions I noted during this journey, once on an unknown railway station between Calcutta and Dimapur and again on the road as we left Dimapur on the road to Kohima a sign that read:-
Through These Portals Pass The Finest Fighting Men In The World. The Fourteenth Army
Those words have always stuck in my mind.
As the Japanese Army retreated we pushed forward again. On the 19th November 1943 over the Imphal range into the Imphal Valley to a place named Wangjing. This move was made by 'road' with Flt/Lt Ray K.Love as officer i/c. he was also 'B' Flight Commander. (An Australian who was to become a very close friend and was to keep in touch over the years). We were to travel over a single track road with sheer drops of hundreds of feet on one side for a distance of some hundred odd miles. This passed without incident. thank goodness. At Wangjing, we were to start losing our 'Married men' as they became TX. (Tour Expired) and they left the unit for their return to Blighty. They were replaced by men who in the main had come straight off the 'boat. Big changes were also being made to our aircraft; these being 'replaced by later Mk2's and Mk3's as they became available.
The Squadron was now flying every minute of the daylight hours, starting at first light (approx. 4am) - the last 'op' returning with the failing light (approx. 8pm) No flare paths on these jungle dirt strips. 'Stand down' days were now few and far between, so rest days also ceased. Long range 'strikes' were now possible as overload tanks were now being fitted and a/c often only on the ground long enough to enable them to be re-fueled and re-armed.. At Wangjing we were joined by two other squadrons, 146 and 261 both Thunderbolt units thus forming 910 Wing, 221 Group, 3rd T.A.F, with Group Chacksfield as the OC. At first the our Wing concentrated on strafing attacks but after 28th. November, bombing attacks were being made on a regular basis. With this, targets became varied and the Wing would operate as a unit or as a Squadron giving close support to the Army over minimal clearances. It should be noted that 79 Squadron was able to break the wall of Fort Dufferin (Mandalay) by using 1,000 bombs after the Army had failed to breach this wall using Artillery pieces, firing at close range with 'open sights'. Our C.O. 'Gatty' May, an Australian was awarded the D.S.O. for leading this action. Wangjing was one of the best places we were ever stationed, due to the climate and the temperature, it got cool in the evenings so that the necessary 'sleeves and slacks' were comfortable and for the first time in our Indian service a blanket was pulled on one at night.
Move made to Myingyan on the 19th. April. In contrast to Wangjing this was the worst place ever. Spinal and Cerebral malaria was in evidence so precautions had to adhered too. Drinking water was in short supply and the quality was very bad. Whilst it came as usual from the dirty jungle pools here it had a natural salt content and made your thirst even worse. Another thing was the millions, I mean millions, of flies. They were everywhere, this was due to the large number of unburied Japanese bodies in the area. With this and the bad water , dysentery and such like were rife. It is little wonder moral was very low and even the news that the European War had ended did little to improve the low moral of anyone. Efforts were made by the 'Radio bod's', by rigging up a old speaker so we were able to hear the celebrations in London but if anything this made it worse.
It was a great relief that on the 21st. June we were on the move again this time to Meiktila, which was to prove to be our last station in Burma. Again hundreds of Japanese bodies in evidence but these were 'turned in' by `Bulldozer? into the monsoon trenches. Movement anywhere had to be within the tapes put out by the Engineers as the whole area was mined. The war was still at it's height upon our arrival at Meiktila so flying hours were kept at maximum as the Japanese Army was trapped in the Sittang.. This was a major battle and is now known as; ?The Last Battle?. As this progressed the Wing was being prepared for the invasion of Malaya but thankfully hostilities ceased before this happened. As you are aware the war finished officially on August 15th. but the Japanese in the Sittang would not believe their Emperor would ever surrender, so continued fighting well into September, with pockets resisting even longer. The last recorded action against the Japanese troops by 79 Squadron was a bombing raid near Shwgyin on the 20th August 1945.
Many signals were received during this period from Group and the Army themselves. These told of what our Sqdn's efforts had achieved i.e.:- damage to installations, amount of equipment and materials destroyed , number of enemy troops killed and the most important in my opinion , the assistance and the relieving of out troops when they needed it. You will realize how gratifying this was to the poor old ground crew who were told nothing. During the service of 79 Sqdn in S.E.A.C., we had personnel from many of the Dominions serving with the air crew; Australia, Canada, New Zealand and South Africa, even an American together with boys from all parts of the UK. Our losses in the Far East theatre of war were: 15 pilots and 2 ground staff. Again I do not have figures of the numbers wounded or lost through illness.
The Squadron's bag for the India/Burma period was; 12 enemy aircraft destroyed, 5 probables and 5 damaged. Aircraft destroyed on the ground are not included in these figures.. Main duties in the later part of this conflict was Army Support and in this 79 was probably the most successful unit in the Burma theatre. So it came to be that the squadron was disbanded on the 30th. December 1945.
Post War Service
****************
The Squadron was again reformed on 15th. November 1946 at Buckeburg with the 2nd TAF. in Germany as a Fighter 'recon' unit, flying Meteor FR.9s. Their next move was to Gutersloh and then on the Laarbruch. In 1956 it was re-equipped with the Swift FR5 and subsequently with the Hunter. The squadron was now one of the top fighter 'reccie' units in the 2nd TAF but the shrinking of the front line Forces brought about yet another disbandment of the unit in December 1960.
On January 1st. 1967 the Sqdn reformed yet again , this time as a Reserve Squadron at No.229, OCU, Chievenor operating Hunter a/c and a few Meteors. Following the closure of Chievenor and the simultaneous forming of the Tactical Weapons Unit at RAF Brawdy, 79, flying Hunter's continued to give specialist training to experienced pilots in all forms of current tactical fighter operations.
In 1979 the Squadron were operating Hawk Mk1 in addition to the Hunter. These types of a/c were operated side by side to refresh not only pilots prior to Front Line service but also to train the embryo of T.W.U Instructors.
In May 1980 the two remaining Meteors at RAF Brawdy came under the auspices of the Sqdn. These a/c were used for the target towing duties. In September 1980 three Jet Provost Mk4 and their pilots joined the Sqdn. These a/c were flown to provide training for students attending the Joint Forward Air Control Training and Standardization Unit. (JFACTSU)
Thus at the end of 1980, 79 Squadron had the distinction of operating four different types of a/c to meet the demands of several roles.
In 1992 the Squadron was again disbanded. under the Govt. Defence Cuts. So to date 1993 that ends the history of 79 Squadron. It was noted whilst attending this event at Brawdy the title of 'Madras Presidency' had been dropped but the 1914/18 war markings of the Two Red Arrows again adorned the a/c and the Sqdn 'Salamander' crest was also carried on the fuselage --- the first mentioned just forward of the cockpit. and another on the tail stabiliser.
A few aircraft numbers (Thunderbolts) have just come to hand;- NV.A, HD 270. - NV.L, KL.231 - NV.N, KJ.202 - NV.R, HD.301 - NV.S, KL.174 - NV.X, KJ 355 - NV.Z, 291.
Roll of Honour
Date,Name,.
14th May 1940,P/O Appleton,Missing
17th May 1940,P/O Merrick,Missing
17th May 1940,P/O Dorrien-Smith,Missing.
28th May 1940,Sgt. McQueen,Killed in Action.
28th May 1940,F/Lt. J.W.Davies. D.F.C,Killed in Action.
4th July 1940,Sgt. Cartwright,Missing. Believed Killed
July 1940,S/Ldr. Joslin,Killed in Action.
July. 1940,F/O.Mitchell, killed in Action.
July. 1940, P/O. Wood,Killed in Action
Aug. 1940, Sgt. Bolton,Killed in Action.
5th Sept. 1940, A/C Nue,Killed in Action.
6th Sept.1940, Sgt.Wrightm,Died of wounds received on the 4th Sept 1940
29th Sept.1940, F/O. Peters,Killed in Action.
26th Oct. 1940,P/O. Piatowski,Killed on Active Service.
Jan. 1941, F/O. Chappie,Killed on Active Service.
Jan. 1941 , Sgt. Venn,Killed in Action.
Mar.1941,P/O. Robinson,Killed in Action.
27th Apr.1941, P/O.Walters,Killed in Action.
22nd Dec.1941, S/Ldr. C.W.Smith. D.F.C,Killed in Action
Dec.1941, Sgt. Davey,Killed in Action.
19th.Feb. 1941, F/Lt. Mayhew,Killed on Active Service.
26th July 1941, F/Sgt. P.Mitchell,Killed on Active Service.
7th Nov. 1941, Sgt. H.Barton,Killed on Active Service.
13th.Nov. 1941, F/Sgt. T.Young,Killed on Active Service.
3rd. Dec.1941, Sgt. L.Day,Killed on Active Service.
5th.Mar. 1942, Sgt. Delamare,Missing believed Killed.
Mar. 1942, Sgt. F.Barton,Killed in Action.
15th. Apr. 1943, A/C1. W.Price, Killed in Action.
21st. May 1943, F/Lt. R.H.Bowes. D.F.C.,Killed in Action.
21st May. 1943, P/O. N.F.Simpson,Killed in Action.
21st. May 1943, Sgt. Burchard, Killed in Action.
5th. May 1944, L.A.C. C.W. Parratt,Killed on Active Service.
17th. May.1944, P/O. F.McDonald,Killed on Active Service.
22nd.Aug.1944, P/O. H.N. O'Brien,Killed on Active Service.
10th. Feb. 1945, Lt. M.B.Hall,Missing believed killed.
27th. Mar.1945, Sgt. F.Bullimore,Missing believed killed.
21st. Apr. 1945, W/O R.S.Jack,Missing believed killed.
2nd June 1945, P/O. G.A.Stewart,Killed on Active Service.
Date,Name,.
14th May 1940,P/O Appleton,Missing
17th May 1940,P/O Merrick,Missing
17th May 1940,P/O Dorrien-Smith,Missing.
28th May 1940,Sgt. McQueen,Killed in Action.
28th May 1940,F/Lt. J.W.Davies. D.F.C,Killed in Action.
4th July 1940,Sgt. Cartwright,Missing. Believed Killed
July 1940,S/Ldr. Joslin,Killed in Action.
July. 1940,F/O.Mitchell, killed in Action.
July. 1940, P/O. Wood,Killed in Action
Aug. 1940, Sgt. Bolton,Killed in Action.
5th Sept. 1940, A/C Nue,Killed in Action.
6th Sept.1940, Sgt.Wrightm,Died of wounds received on the 4th Sept 1940
29th Sept.1940, F/O. Peters,Killed in Action.
26th Oct. 1940,P/O. Piatowski,Killed on Active Service.
Jan. 1941, F/O. Chappie,Killed on Active Service.
Jan. 1941 , Sgt. Venn,Killed in Action.
Mar.1941,P/O. Robinson,Killed in Action.
27th Apr.1941, P/O.Walters,Killed in Action.
22nd Dec.1941, S/Ldr. C.W.Smith. D.F.C,Killed in Action
Dec.1941, Sgt. Davey,Killed in Action.
19th.Feb. 1941, F/Lt. Mayhew,Killed on Active Service.
26th July 1941, F/Sgt. P.Mitchell,Killed on Active Service.
7th Nov. 1941, Sgt. H.Barton,Killed on Active Service.
13th.Nov. 1941, F/Sgt. T.Young,Killed on Active Service.
3rd. Dec.1941, Sgt. L.Day,Killed on Active Service.
5th.Mar. 1942, Sgt. Delamare,Missing believed Killed.
Mar. 1942, Sgt. F.Barton,Killed in Action.
15th. Apr. 1943, A/C1. W.Price, Killed in Action.
21st. May 1943, F/Lt. R.H.Bowes. D.F.C.,Killed in Action.
21st May. 1943, P/O. N.F.Simpson,Killed in Action.
21st. May 1943, Sgt. Burchard, Killed in Action.
5th. May 1944, L.A.C. C.W. Parratt,Killed on Active Service.
17th. May.1944, P/O. F.McDonald,Killed on Active Service.
22nd.Aug.1944, P/O. H.N. O'Brien,Killed on Active Service.
10th. Feb. 1945, Lt. M.B.Hall,Missing believed killed.
27th. Mar.1945, Sgt. F.Bullimore,Missing believed killed.
21st. Apr. 1945, W/O R.S.Jack,Missing believed killed.
2nd June 1945, P/O. G.A.Stewart,Killed on Active Service.
NOTE. Some details are incomplete - full and complete Squadron records are not held..
It should also be noted that a number of ground staff were wounded by enemy action but again as I do not have complete records their names can not be recorded. Neither do I have records of those who died of illness
It should also be noted that a number of ground staff were wounded by enemy action but again as I do not have complete records their names can not be recorded. Neither do I have records of those who died of illness
Messages of Congratulations.
1 From Air Support Control.
FOLLOWING JAP CASUALTIES AFTER STRIKE ON THE INGON 28TH JUNE 1945. 170 JAPS AND 40 MULES . 54 CARTS WITH RATIONS AND AMMO, 150 RIFLES, 3 L.M.G's 3 M.M.G's AND 9 SMALL CHARGING ENGINES PARTIALLY DESTROYED.
2 From A.O.C., 221 Group,
SPLENDID RESULTS OF THIS SUCCESSFUL STRIKE ON THE INGON. WELL DONE 79 SQUADRON
(BOUCHER.)
3 From 4 Corps to A.O.C.,221 Group.
MUCH APPRECIATED GOOD AIR SUPPORT ON 4 CORPS FRONT YESTERDAY IN SPITE OF TERRIBLE WEATHER CONDITIONS. PLEASE THANK ALL CONCERNED.
(79 Squadron operations against troop concentrations in Mokpalin area 23rd June 1945.)
4 from Air Support Control.
5O JAPS KILLED, 100 INJURED. PLEASE CONVEY HEARTY CONGRATULATIONS . FIRST CLASS SHOW.
(Kaywe 9th June, 1945.)
5 From Air Support Control.
ARMY STATE APPROX 100 JAPS KILLED IN STRIKE 4 JUNE AT KUNZEIK AND 4 JAP OFFICERS AND 40 O.R'S KILLED IN STRIKE ON DUYINZEIK 5TH JUNE.
REQUEST PASS CONGRATULATIONS TO SQUADRON. CONCERNED.
The messages shown in this document are the only signals of which I am aware but there is no doubt there were many more in existence. Complete records not held.
1 From Air Support Control.
FOLLOWING JAP CASUALTIES AFTER STRIKE ON THE INGON 28TH JUNE 1945. 170 JAPS AND 40 MULES . 54 CARTS WITH RATIONS AND AMMO, 150 RIFLES, 3 L.M.G's 3 M.M.G's AND 9 SMALL CHARGING ENGINES PARTIALLY DESTROYED.
2 From A.O.C., 221 Group,
SPLENDID RESULTS OF THIS SUCCESSFUL STRIKE ON THE INGON. WELL DONE 79 SQUADRON
(BOUCHER.)
3 From 4 Corps to A.O.C.,221 Group.
MUCH APPRECIATED GOOD AIR SUPPORT ON 4 CORPS FRONT YESTERDAY IN SPITE OF TERRIBLE WEATHER CONDITIONS. PLEASE THANK ALL CONCERNED.
(79 Squadron operations against troop concentrations in Mokpalin area 23rd June 1945.)
4 from Air Support Control.
5O JAPS KILLED, 100 INJURED. PLEASE CONVEY HEARTY CONGRATULATIONS . FIRST CLASS SHOW.
(Kaywe 9th June, 1945.)
5 From Air Support Control.
ARMY STATE APPROX 100 JAPS KILLED IN STRIKE 4 JUNE AT KUNZEIK AND 4 JAP OFFICERS AND 40 O.R'S KILLED IN STRIKE ON DUYINZEIK 5TH JUNE.
REQUEST PASS CONGRATULATIONS TO SQUADRON. CONCERNED.
The messages shown in this document are the only signals of which I am aware but there is no doubt there were many more in existence. Complete records not held.
Commanding Officers 1939 - 1945
S/Ldr. McMullen, 1939 - 1940.
S/Ldr. Alexander, 1940.
S/Ldr. Joslin, May 1940 - July1940. Killed in Action
S/Ldr. Heyworth, July 1940 - 1941.
S/Ldr. G.D.L. Haysom. D.F.C, 1941.
S/Ldr. Sinclair. D.F.C, 1941.
S/Ldr. O.W.Smith. D.F.C, Nov. 1941- Dec.1941. Killed in Action.
S/Ldr. Clowes, Dec 1941 - Feb 1942.
S/Ldr. C.A.T. Jones. D.F.C., Feb. 1942 - Feb.1944
S/Ldr. D.D. Cunliffe. D.F.C., Feb.1944 - Aug. 1944.
F/Lt. K.G. Hemingway., Aug. 1944 - Nov.1944. (Acting C.O.)
S/Ldr. D.C. McLean. , Nov. 1944 - Dec.1944. (Acting C.O.)
S/Ldr R.D. May. D.F.C., Dec.1944 - Aug. 1945.
S/Ldr. R.E. Stout., Aug. 1945 - Oct. 1945.
S/Ldr. H.A.Rogers. , Oct.1945 - Dec. 1945. (Acting C.O.)
In some cases dates are unknown as complete records are not held.
*****************************
Awards made to personnel whilst serving with 79 Squadron.
Distinguished Service Order (D.S.O.)
.
S/Ldr. R.D. (Gatty) May, Oct. 1945.
Distinguished Flying Cross (D.F.C.)
.
Capt. F.T. Lord, 10.8.1918.
Capt. R.B. Bannerman, 16.9.1918.
Capt. F.W. Gillet, 16.9.1918.
Capt. R.B. Bannerman, 9.10 1918 Bar to DFC.
Capt. F.W. Gillet, 9. 10 1918 Bar to DFC
Capt. J.H. McNeaney, 29.10 1918..
P/O. Stones., May. 1940.
F/Lt. J.W. Davies., June. 1940
P/O. Millington., Sept. 1940.
F/Lt. G.D.L. Haysom, Apr. 1941.
F/Lt. R.H.Bowes., Apr. 1944.
S/Ldr. C.A.T. Jones., Apr. 1944.
F/O. F.W.Cox., Sept. 1945.
F/Lt. E.C.Reed., Sept .1945.
Distinguished Flying Medal. (DFM)
.
Sgt. Cartwright, June 1940.
Sgt. Whitby, June 1940.
British Empire Medal. (B.E.M.)
.
F/Sgt. Killick., June. 1940.
Cpl. Towner., Dec. 1945.
VICTORIES IN AERIAL COMBAT GAINED BY 79 SQUADRON
., THE GREAT WAR, 1914-1918
Enemy aircraft destroyed, 57
Kite balloons destroyed, 8
.,THE SECOND WORLD WAR, 1939-1945.
Victories whilst based in the United Kingdom, 1939-1942.
Enemy aircraft destroyed , 76
Probably destroyed , 44
Damaged, 15
.,Victories in India and Burma, 1942-1945
Enemy aircraft destroyed, 12
Probably destroyed, 5
Damaged , 9
.,TOTALS DURING WORLD WAR, 1939-1945.
Enemy aircraft destroyed , 88
Probably destroyed , 49
Damaged , 24
In addition the Squadron destroyed several aircraft on the ground and successfully attacked River craft. Railway rolling stock. Motor transport and Troop concentrations.
S/Ldr. McMullen, 1939 - 1940.
S/Ldr. Alexander, 1940.
S/Ldr. Joslin, May 1940 - July1940. Killed in Action
S/Ldr. Heyworth, July 1940 - 1941.
S/Ldr. G.D.L. Haysom. D.F.C, 1941.
S/Ldr. Sinclair. D.F.C, 1941.
S/Ldr. O.W.Smith. D.F.C, Nov. 1941- Dec.1941. Killed in Action.
S/Ldr. Clowes, Dec 1941 - Feb 1942.
S/Ldr. C.A.T. Jones. D.F.C., Feb. 1942 - Feb.1944
S/Ldr. D.D. Cunliffe. D.F.C., Feb.1944 - Aug. 1944.
F/Lt. K.G. Hemingway., Aug. 1944 - Nov.1944. (Acting C.O.)
S/Ldr. D.C. McLean. , Nov. 1944 - Dec.1944. (Acting C.O.)
S/Ldr R.D. May. D.F.C., Dec.1944 - Aug. 1945.
S/Ldr. R.E. Stout., Aug. 1945 - Oct. 1945.
S/Ldr. H.A.Rogers. , Oct.1945 - Dec. 1945. (Acting C.O.)
In some cases dates are unknown as complete records are not held.
*****************************
Awards made to personnel whilst serving with 79 Squadron.
Distinguished Service Order (D.S.O.)
.
S/Ldr. R.D. (Gatty) May, Oct. 1945.
Distinguished Flying Cross (D.F.C.)
.
Capt. F.T. Lord, 10.8.1918.
Capt. R.B. Bannerman, 16.9.1918.
Capt. F.W. Gillet, 16.9.1918.
Capt. R.B. Bannerman, 9.10 1918 Bar to DFC.
Capt. F.W. Gillet, 9. 10 1918 Bar to DFC
Capt. J.H. McNeaney, 29.10 1918..
P/O. Stones., May. 1940.
F/Lt. J.W. Davies., June. 1940
P/O. Millington., Sept. 1940.
F/Lt. G.D.L. Haysom, Apr. 1941.
F/Lt. R.H.Bowes., Apr. 1944.
S/Ldr. C.A.T. Jones., Apr. 1944.
F/O. F.W.Cox., Sept. 1945.
F/Lt. E.C.Reed., Sept .1945.
Distinguished Flying Medal. (DFM)
.
Sgt. Cartwright, June 1940.
Sgt. Whitby, June 1940.
British Empire Medal. (B.E.M.)
.
F/Sgt. Killick., June. 1940.
Cpl. Towner., Dec. 1945.
VICTORIES IN AERIAL COMBAT GAINED BY 79 SQUADRON
., THE GREAT WAR, 1914-1918
Enemy aircraft destroyed, 57
Kite balloons destroyed, 8
.,THE SECOND WORLD WAR, 1939-1945.
Victories whilst based in the United Kingdom, 1939-1942.
Enemy aircraft destroyed , 76
Probably destroyed , 44
Damaged, 15
.,Victories in India and Burma, 1942-1945
Enemy aircraft destroyed, 12
Probably destroyed, 5
Damaged , 9
.,TOTALS DURING WORLD WAR, 1939-1945.
Enemy aircraft destroyed , 88
Probably destroyed , 49
Damaged , 24
In addition the Squadron destroyed several aircraft on the ground and successfully attacked River craft. Railway rolling stock. Motor transport and Troop concentrations.