Philip Marcer  Former RAF Regt WO Philip MARCER, born 5 Feb 51, died on 18 Mar 09, aged 58, following a short illness. He enlisted in Apr 69 and served on 1, 27, 37, 51, 58 Sqns RAF Regt and TQCS, receiving a Queen's Commendation for Bravery for containing a civil disturbance at a RAF Akrotiri piquet post in Jan 75. He became something of an expert on CVR(T) and, following his 1 Sqn tour in 1981-84 at RAF Laarbruch,  became the Regt's Instructor in Gunnery for Light Armour at the RAC's Lullworth Trg Camp and Bovington Trg Area. He was promoted to WO in May 89 and retired in May 95.

Norman George Moir  Former RAF Regt Sgt Norman George MOIR, born 13 May 26, died on 21 Mar 09 aged 82. He enlisted on 12 Jun 47 and served on 56 (R) Sqn RAF Regt in Germany and at the 11 School of Recruit Training in the UK. He was discharged on 3 Feb 53.

Edward Duggan  Former RAF Regt Cpl Edward DUGGAN, born on 28 Jun 30, died on 28 Sep 08 aged 78. He enlisted on 2 Jul 51 and, after Basic Training at RAF Wilmslow, was posted to a course at the Small Arms School at RAF Watchet but, during his time there, the School was transferred to RAF Dumphries. He completed his training and was then posted back to RAF Watchet for training on the Bofors L40-60 gun. He was posted to RAF Yatesbury in Jan 52 where 37 Sqn RAF Regt was being formed. The Sqn then moved to Abu Suir, Egypt. In May 52, he was sent back to RAF Watchet to complete a Jnr Gnr Instructors' Course and, after the course, returned to Egypt. He completed his service there and was discharged on 2 Jul 54.

John Frederick Mott   Former RAF Regt SAC John Frederick Mott, born 2 Jul 36, died on 13 Mar 09 aged 72. He served in the Regt from 3 Jan 55 to 28 Dec 56 on 31 (LAA) Sqn RAF Regt at RAF Wunstorf in West Germany. On discharge, he was with the Suffolk Constabulary from 1957-88, retiring in the rank of Act/Superintendent. He was a member of the Norfolk Branch of the RAF Regt Assoc.

Hubert Lionel Wood  Former RAF Regt Cpl Hubert Lionel WOOD, born 9 Sep 22, died on 26 Feb 09 aged 86. He enlisted on 29 Jul 42 and saw service in Norway and Palestine. He was discharged on 25 Sep 46. No further Service details are known. He was the first Chairman of the Oxfordshire Branch of the RAF Regt Assoc.

Harold Thomas Baker  Former RAF Regt Gnr Harold Thomas BAKER, born 28 May 24, died on 6 Jan 09 aged 84. Member of the RAF Regt WOs & SNCOS Assoc.

David Alan Jones  Former RAF Regt SAC Gnr David Alan JONES, born 22 Aug 38, died in Australia on 23 Jan 09 aged 70. He served from 1957-60 and then again from 1962-71.

Joseph E Smith  Former RAF Regt Gnr Joesph E SMITH, died on 12 Feb 09 aged 59. Former RAF Regt Assoc (Notts & Derby) member. No further details are available at this time.

Samual Bunch  Former RAF Regt SAC Samual BUNCH, born 12 Jun 29, died on 22 Jan 09 aged 79. He served from 1946-53 on various units, including 51 (Rifle) and 51 (LAA) Sqns RAF Regt and at RAF Dumfries. Member of the West Yorks Branch of the RAF Regt Assoc. 

Bill Weightman  RAF Regt Flt Lt (Retd) and late Lt Col TA (Retd) William Albert (Bill) WEIGHTMAN, born 1 Oct 25, died on 29 Jan 09, aged 84. Commissioned on 12 Jul 56, he served with the Regt until his retirement 13 May 70, whereupon he joined the TA as a Reserve Officer, achieving the rank of Lt Col.

Robert John Rowlands  Former RAF Regt SAC Robert John ROWLANDS, born 19 Jul 35, died on 23 Jan 09 aged 73.He served as a National Serviceman from 1955 - 57 and was a member of 104 (LAA) and 24 (LAA) Sqns RAF Regt, based at RAF Stations Wahn, Wildenrath and Bruggen.

George Wardle  Former RAF Regt, born 1935, died 18 December 2008.  He served in the RAF Regiment in Germany in the 1950s. 

Harold Creber  Former LAC Gnr Harold J CREBER, born 6 Feb 28, died on 30 Dec 08  aged 80. He was a National Servicemen from 1946-48 and served on 2828 and 2772 Sqn RAF Regt.

Gordon Hedges  Former RAF Regt Cpl Francis Gordon Charles HEDGES, born 8 Dec 27, died on 7 Jan 09, aged 80. He served from 1946-48 as a National Service Gnr before being discharged in 1948. He re-enlisted and served again from Nov 49 until  Nov 54, his last tour of duty being on II (AC) Sqn RAF Regt.

Edmund Stocks   Former GG and RAF Regt LAC Edmund (Ed) STOCKS, born 9 Jan 22, died on 6 Jan 09 aged 87.  He enlisted in Lincoln in Nov 41 and completed his initial training at RAF Padgate. He was remustered into the RAF Regt on its formation and went to Whitley Bay for further training. He then served at RAF Filey, Waddington, Gatwick, Shoreham, Tangmere and Davidsow Moor. He was then posted to Rawlpindi in India for parachute training prior to joining 2810 (Para) Sqn RAF Regt in the Far East. He was involved in the fall of Singapore and ended his service at RAF Changi in Mar 46. He was a staunch member of the RAF Regt Assoc since its inception.

William (Bill) Brown  Former RAF Regt LAC William (Bill) BROWN, born 23 Jul 21, died on 29 Dec 08 aged 87. Served from 1940-46 on mainly 2865 Sqn RAF Regt and in Italy and Sicily. On return to the UK, followed in the wake of the D-Day landings. Went with the Sqn through Holland via Eindhoven, Hamburg, Schleswig-Holstein to Rensberg. Was the batman to the OC, later Wg Cdr Leonard Smith OBE. Former member of the RAF Regt Old Comrades Assoc.

Andrew Dennis Curle  Former Regt FS (and RAF WO) Andrew Dennis CURLE, born 5 Sep 20, has died aged 88. He enlisted in 1939 at the outbreak of WWII and served on 2777 Sqn RAF Regt and at RAF Stations Rowner, Tangmere and Hereford. He also served in Malaya. Following a serious road traffic accident, he was medically downgraded and remustered. He was, at the time of discharge, SWO RAF Uxbridge and maintained his Mess membership there for over 54 years. He retired in 1965 to work for HM Customs & Excise and was a member of the Uxbridge Branch of the RAF Regt Assoc.

Sidney (Sid) Edmund Parry  Former RAF Regt Cpl Sidney (Sid) Edmund PARRY, born 16 Jul 33, died on 17 Jan 09 aged 75. Served from 1952 - 56 at RAF Cardington, Dumfries, Compton Bassett, Catterick, Sutton-on-Hull, Winterbourne Gunner and Bridgnorth. Also served on 56 Sqn RAF Regt at Shallufa and Abiad. Member of Hereford Branch of the RAF Regt Assoc.

George Day.  Former RAF Regt Gnr George DAY died on 10 Nov 08. He served from 1941-46 on 780, 2790 and 2770 Sqns RAF Regt. Member of the Bristol & Bath Branch of the RAF Regt Assoc.

Charles Barter Dodd.  Former RAF Regt LAC Gnr Charles Barter DODD (known as Bart), born 26 Dec 20, died on 28 Dec 08, aged 88. He enlisted in May 41 and carried out his Basic Training at RAF Bridgnorth. He was then posted to 754 Sqn (later 2754 Sqn RAF Regt) at Limavady, Northern Ireland. Served with 2754 Sqn there and at various other postings in the UK until 1943 when he was posted onto 2760 (LAA) Sqn RAF Regt at RAF Tangmere. He served there and at various other UK postings until Feb 45 when the Sqn was sent to Belgium and then into Germany. He completed his service with 2760 (LAA) Sqn at Hamburg until he was discharged in Jun 46. Member of the Birmingham Branch of the RAF Regt Assoc. 

Norman Leslie Hunt. Former Gnd Gnr and Sgt Norman Leslie HUNT, born 24 Feb 22 died on 13 Dec 08, aged 86. He enlisted at RAF Uxbridge on 15 Jun 39 and became a Gnd Gnr. He was a member of the ill-fated British Expeditionary Force and, after evacuation from Dunkirk, was posted to 114 Sqn at RAF Horsham St Faiths. He transferred to the RAF Regt on its formation in 1942 and volunteered for duty on 2810 Sqn RAF Regt in the parachute role. He was promoted to Sgt and served in SEAC, finally being discharged on 20 Jun 46. He was a founder member of the Norfolk Branch of the Assoc in 1994 and was a staunch supporter of the Branch and the Assoc from then on.

Harry (Henry) Frisby.  Former RAF Regt Cpl Harry (Henry) FRISBY, born 26 Apr 21, died on 30 Sep 08 aged 87. He enlisted on 15 Jul 41 as a Ground Gunner, transferring to the RAF Regt on its formation. He served on 2731 and 2904 Sqn RAF Regt in the European Campaigns in Italy, France and Germany, and also in the Middle East. He was demobilized on 22 Jul 47. He joined the old RAF Regt Assoc (Kent Branch) in 1992 but transferred to the Bromley Branch in 2003, where he was a regular attendee until ill health prevailed.

J H Thacker. Retired Regt Sqn Ldr J H THACKER, born 6 Mar 20, died on 30 Oct 08 aged 88 years. He was commissioned on 24 Oct 45 and was promoted to sqn ldr on 1 Jul 56. He retired on 28 Jan 61.

Derek Woodfield. Former RAF Regt Cpl Derek WOODFIELD, born 24 Dec 33, died on 14 Nov 08 aged 75. He enlisted on 3 Apr 52 and served with 16 Sqn, 6 Wg and 194 Sqn RAF Regt before being discharged on 2 Apr 65. His wife pre-deceased him.

William Halligan. Former RAF Regt Gnr William HALLIGAN died on 28 Nov 08 after a long illness. Member of Catterick Branch of RAF Regt Assoc.

Leonard George Lake-Bullen MM. Former RAF Regt Gnr Leonard George LAKE-BULLEN MM,born 13 Feb 23, died on 26 Nov 08 aged 85, following a short illness. He was the first RAF Regiment recipient of the Military Medal in May 43. The Citation for the award of the MM, published in the London Gazette on 28 May 43, read: "1459700 Aircraftsman 1^st Class Leonard George BULLEN, Royal Air Force Regiment. In November 1942, this airman with his flt was on the coastal road proceeding in the direction of Sollum. When the convoy had reached a point at which the road was crowded with transport vehicles, an enemy bomber approached, dropping bombs that caused casualties. Aircraftsman Bullpen, with great presence of mind and coolness, manned his gun that was mounted on a lorry and successfully shot down the intruder before further damage was done. By his prompt action, Aircraftsman Bullen undoubtedly saved many lives and much material from destruction. In December 1942, he repeated this feat, destroying an enemy aircraft which was making a low-level attack on dispersed aircraft." He was discharged from the RAF on 23 Mar 54 and was a member of Hereford Branch RAF Regt Assoc.

Patrick Allsop. Former RAF Regt WO Patrick Joseph 'Olly' ALLSOP BEM, born 22 Jan 40, died on Mon 10 Nov 08. He served from Apr 58 to Jan 80 on II Sqn RAF Regt, RAF Watton Fire Sectn, GDT at RAF Changi, 3 Wg HQ at RAF Wittering, 26 and 1 Sqns RAF Regt at RAF Laarbruch and, finally, GDT at RAF Buchan. From Jan 80 - Jul 83 he was the Sqn WO of 2623 Sqn RAuxAF Regt at RAF Honington.

George Day. Former RAF Regt gnr George DAY, born 1921, died on 10 Nov 08 aged 87. Served on 780, 2790 and 2770 Sqns RAF Regt from 1941 -46.

Rev Willie Downie. The Rev Willie DOWNIE, Chaplain to the RAF Regt Assoc, died suddenly on 18 Nov 09. Details of the funeral are awaited and will be published as soon as possible by this means when known; however, it is likely to be, on present plans, at St Machans Church, Larkhall, on Thu 27 Nov 08. He is survived by his wife, Sarah and sons Fraser and Craig. Letters of condolence may be sent to Mrs Downie at 21 Pentland Crescent, Larkhall, South Lanarkshire, ML9 1UP. The Corps extends its sincere condolences to the family.

Harold Warburton. RAF Regt Fg Off Harold WARBURTON, born 26 Feb 14, died 9 Sep 08 aged 94. Service details unknown at this time, but he enlisted in 1935 and served until 1947, reportedly serving in SEAC 1936-37, 1940-42 and in 1945. Escorted HRH The Duke of Windsor when he returned from France on the death of King George V. Heavily involved with the ATC and in the Reserves until 1959.

Dennis George Vince. RAF Regt Flt Lt Dennis George VINCE, born 3 May 24, died on 18 Oct 08 aged 84. Flt Lt Vince enlisted on his 18^th birthday in 1942 and was accepted into the NCO Aircrew Training Scheme, training on Mosquito and Beaufighter aircraft. In 1945, he was retired and promptly joined the RAF Regt OCTU at RAF Belton Park, where he was commissioned in to the RAFVR in Mar 46. His first posting was to 2865 (later renumbered 63) Sqn RAF Regt at Air HQ, Bad Elsen, West Germany. He spent much of his Regt career in German, and participated in the Berlin Airlift operation. He opted for early retirement at his '38-year' point and went into local government as a Civil Defence Officer in Dorking, Surrey. He then went through a series of Emergency Planning Officer-type roles. He married Pat Martin, the daughter of the Snr Gnd Def Staff Offr (SGDSO) of 205 Gp, Wg Cdr N Martin, in Jul 56.

Norman Abbott  Former Regiment FS Norman (Bud) ABBOTT, born 28 Oct 27 died peacefully on 3 Oct 08, aged 80, following a short illness. The father of the current CG, he enlisted in 1949 and served on 66 (Rifle) Sqn and 4001 AC Flt (both in Aden) and on 74 (LAA) Sqn (Geilenkirchen), 63 (LAA) Sqn (Tengah), 66 (LAA) Sqn (Catterick) and on 26 (LAA/Field) Sqn (Gütersloh) - when he was injured in a terrorist bomb attack while serving in Londonderry in Mar 73.  He also served on GDT Flts at RAF Cranwell, Finningley, Stanbridge, Laarbruch, West Raynham, Kinloss, St Athan, Benson and High Wycombe. He was pre-deceased by his wife, 'Margret', in Aug 2004.

Erric Armitage  Former RAF Armoured Car Company airman, Eric ARMITAGE died peacefully on 3 Oct 08. He served on 2 ACC from 1942 - 46 and was an active member of the RAF AC Assoc.

William Clarke  Former RAF Regiment Gunner William CLARKE, born in Belfast, NI, in 1920, died in Canada on 16 Sep 08, aged 88. He was a WWII veteran who served in the UK and Africa, before emigrating to Canada, where he became a teacher in Oshawa, Ontario, and a member of the Ontario Regiment, in which he achieved the rank of Major and was the second-in-command. In later years, he was a Regional Councillor for the Clarke township and Chairman of the St Johns ambulance, in which he achieved the level of a Comdr of St John. He was also a member of the Canadian Chapter of the RAF Regiment Assoc. A memorial service was held in Oshawa on 26 Sep. He is survived by his wife, Mary, to whom the Corps extends its sincere condolences.

Kingsley M Oliver   RAF Regiment Historian, Gp Capt (Retd) Kingsley M Oliver, born 12 Dec 28, died peacefully on 5 Oct 08 aged 79, following a short illness. He was commissioned on 13 Jul 47 and was then trained at the RMA Sandhurst from Jan 48-Jul 49. He then joined 61 (Rifle) Sqn (at Fassberg) before moving to the Light Anti-Aircraft Gunnery School (LAAGS) at Watchet in Sep 49. He was then posted to 19 (LAA) Sqn (Guetersloh, Jun 51), returning to the LAAGS in Jul 52. He was then posted to the RAF Regiment (Malaya) at Changi in Feb 55 before moving within the force to 91 Sqn at RAF Kai Tak in Hongkong. He moved to the RAF Regiment Depot, Catterick in 1958 before being posted to the Aden Protectorate Levies (APL) on promotion to Sqn Ldr that year. In 1961 he was posted to the RAFC Cranwell as Snr Regiment Instructor (SRI) and then moved to HQ FEAF in Changi in 1965. He returned to the UK in Jan 66 to go to RAF Staff College at Andover and, on completion of the course, moved to HQ Fighter Command at RAF Bentley Priory. In 1968, he became GD1 in the Directorate of Gnd def at MOD UK in the rank of Wg Cdr. He then went to the JS Staff College Course at Latimer before assuming command of 33 Wg RAF Regiment at Catterick in May 70, where he coordinated the RAF Regiment response (48 Sqn Tigercat) to the threatened Guatemalan invasion of British Honduras (now Belize) in Jan 72. He was promoted to the rank of Gp Capt on 1 Jul 72, when he assumed the appt of Snr Gnd Def Staff Offr (SGDSO), HQ Support Comd at RAF Upavon. He then became the Comd Regiment Offr at HQ RAF Germany in Jun 72 before becoming the Comdt at RAF Catterick in Nov 74. In Dec 77, he moved to become Dep Dir Gnd Def (DDGD) in the Regiment Directorate in MOD before retiring, at his own request, in Dec 78. He then went to work for the British Aircraft Corporation Guided Weapons Division on the Imperial Iranian AF Rapier Project in Tehran, before the downfall of the Shah curtailed the mission. He returned to the UK as BAC's Project Manager for Overseas Rapier Contracts. In 1980, he then became the Clerk to the Worshipful Company of Saddlers, one of the ancient Liveried Companies of the City of London, before finally retiring in 1994. He published the Corps' 'Short History of the RAF Regiment' in Feb 70, 'Through Adversity' - the definitive history of the Corps from 1942-92 - in 1997 and 'The RAF Regiment at War' in 2002, the latter being privately funded by him. He was the unofficial RAF Regiment Historian for most of the last 38 years and most deferred to his deep and passionate knowledge of the Corps history.

Arthur Greathead  Former RAF Regiment Cpl Arthur Greathead died on 16 Aug 08, a day short of his 87th birthday, after a short illness.  He enlisted as a Gnd Gunner on 5 Jul 40 and served at various postings in the UK. He was then posted to 2951 Sqn RAF Regiment upon its formation at Longcross Radar Station. Further postings to radar stations at RAF Pen-Olver, RAF Fairlight and RAF Drytree followed.  On 13 Mar 45, he transferred to the Army and was posted to the Royal West African Frontier Force. Later, he transferred into the REME and achieved the rank of SSgt.  He was discharged from the Army on 23 May 56.

Len Hooker  Former RAF Regiment Gunner Cpl Len HOOKER, born 8 Apr 20, died on 4 Sep 08 aged 88.  He enlisted in Feb 40, initially as a Gnd Gunner, and was stationed at RAF Kidbrooke. He was assimilated into the RAF Regiment on its formation in 1942 and served with 2827 Squadron at Wittering and went into Europe after D-Day.  The Sqn was involved in the Ardennes 'Battle of the Bulge' and then moved up through the low countries into Germany. After VE Day, he was employed on mine clearance work and returned to the UK for demobilisation on 8 Apr 46. He was a member of the Kent Branch of the RAF Regiment Comrades Assoc and was instrumental in bringing about the formation of the East Kent Branch, becoming its first Chairman at the founding meeting held in May 89. He remained Chairman of the Branch until 2004. He was also the Branch Secretary for several years and was also an active member of the Herne Bay RAFA and British Legion branches. In retirement, he also became a voluntary curator and guide at the Battle of Britain Museum at Hawkinge.

Douglas Fawcett  Former RAF Regiment Gunner Douglas FAWCETT, born 22 Mar 29, died in 16 Aug 08 aged 79. He enlisted in 1946 and served at RAF Newton, RAF Church Fenton and on the RAF Regiment's Demonstration Flt, before being demobilised in 1952.

Frank Robert North GM Former RAuxAF Corporal Frank Robert NORTH, GM, born 9 Nov 14, died on 7 Aug 08, aged 93. He enlisted on 7 Sep 40 as a nursing orderly, serving at RAF Yatesbury, Hornchurch (and then on 611 Sqn) and RAF Biggin Hill, before his posting to 2806 Sqn RAF Regiment in 1943. In Aug 43, at Lympne in Kent, four soldiers on a trg exercise unwittingly entered an unmarked minefield; three were killed instantly and the fourth was seriously injured. Together with two other medical orderlies, Cpl North went to the scene and waded across the Hythe Canal before passing through barbed wire into the minefield. They penetrated about 16 ft into the minefield and administered first aid to the injured soldier, before recovering him to safety. For their actions, HM King George VI awarded all three with the GM at a ceremony at Buckingham Palace in Dec 46, six months after Cpl North was demobilised.

Donald Pocock Former CG RAF Regiment, AVM Donald POCOCK CBE RAF (Retd), born 5 Jul 20, died on 30 Jul 08 at the age of 88, following a long period of failing health. He was commissioned on 27 Jul 41, was the Comdt RAF Regiment Depot, Catterick, from 1967-70, promoted to Air Cdre on appointment as DGD(RAF) 1970-73 and was promoted to AVM on 1 Jan 73, on assuming the appointment as CG RAF Regiment. He was ADC to HM The Queen from 1967-70. He retired on 5 Jul 75.

Godfrey MacDonal Turney  Former RAF Regiment WO Godfrey MacDonald Turney died in early 2008.

Ray Passey  Former Gunner Roy Passey of Brierley Hill, West Midlands, born 29 May 31, died on 20 Mar 08 after after a long illness, He was a National Serviceman from Aug 49 - Aug 51 and served on 60 (Rifle) Sqn RAF Regiment at RAF Fassburg in West Germany.

Albert Worton  Former RAF Regiment Sgt Albert Worton, born 30 Jul 21, died on 10 Apr 08, aged 86. He enlisted as a Gnd Gunner and served from May 41 to Jul 46 in the UK, North Africa, Italy and Palestine Theatres.

Stuart Gray  Former RAF Regiment SAC signaller, Stuart Gray was born 30 Jul 35 and died on 16 Feb 08, aged 72. Enlisted Sep 52 and served on 60 (Fd) Sqn RAF Regiment at RAF Guetersloh, Gatow and Wunsdorf. Demobilised in Sep 55.

Vic Houghton  Former RAF Regiment Sgt, Vic Houghton, born 6 Sep 32, died on 15 Feb 08 aged 75. Joined 2605 (County of Warwick) Sqn RAuxAF Regiment initially in Apr 50, but enlisted in the regular RAF in Nov that year. Served with 22 (LAA) Sqn RAF Regiment (51-53) before demobilising from RAF Sutton Coldfield in Nov 53, to rejoin 2605 Sqn RAuxAF Regiment. He re-joined the regular RAF in Sep 55 and served on nine RAF Regiment sqns ( Nos 48, 16, 34, 26, 48, 1, 63, 26, 15) and at RAF Yatesbury, CGDS St Athan, and RAF Locking from where he retired.

Michael Hugh Dymoke Broad  Former RAF Regiment Sqn Ldr Michael Broad, born 1 Feb 30, died peacefully in Ottawa, Canada, on 20 Jan 08 aged 77. Former pupil of Wellington College and resident of Lavant, W Sussex. Commissioned 12 Dec 51. Transferred subsequently to the Supply Branch and retired on 30 Sep 75. Worked afterwards for Roedean Girls' School before emigrating to Canada. At the time of his death, he was the major force behind establishing a SSAFA-type organization in Canada for the Canadian Forces and their families.

Thomas Bond  Former Gnd and RAF Regiment Gunner, Thomas Bond of Birmingham, born 8 Apr 21, died on 7 Jan 08 aged 86. He enlisted in May 41 and joined 729 Gnd Def Flt, 5 Gp, at RAF Waddington. He transferred to RAF Regiment on its formation in 1942 and the Flt was renumbered 2729 Sqn RAF Regiment. Served on 2729 Sqn throughout WWII. He participated in Op OVERLORD and landed in Normandy in mid-Jun 44. He was discharged on 8 Jul 46. He was pre-deceased by wife, Mariette, whom he met during his wartime service in Belgium and married at War's end.

Bertram Arthur (Jimmy) James, MC  Former RAF GD and RAF Regiment offr, born 17 Apr 15 and died 18 Jan 08, aged 92. Commissioned 1 May 39. Aircrew flt lt of IX Sqn RAF operating from RAF Honington, he was shot down south of Rotterdam on 5 Jun 40 and parachuted to safety. Captured and eventually transferred to Stalag Luft III prison camp near Sagan in Poland, he was No39 in the infamous Great Escape that resulted in 50 of the 76 escapers being shot by the Gestapo. He transferred to the RAF Regiment after the War and retired, as a Sqn Ldr, on 11 Jun 58.

John Cronin  Former Gunner, John Cronin, a long standing member of the East Kent Branch of the RAF Regiment Association, died in hospital at Canterbury on the 23 Dec 07 after a long battle against cancer. Served from 1950-55 with 57 Sqn RAF Regiment in Germany and then 48 Sqn RAF Regiment at RAF Chivenor.

Jack Luxton  Former Gunner, Jack (Francis John) died on 27 Dec 07. A former member of 2706 Sqn RAF Regiment, he served in Burma during WWII and had been an active member of the local branches of both the Burma Star Association and the RBL, until he broke his hip in a fall about 4½ years ago. Member of the RAF Regiment Comrades' Assoc since 1988.

Fred Meadows  Former RAF Regiment WO. Known as 'Grazing'. Born 12 Mar 15 and died 7 Dec 07, aged 92, in Clacton, Essex. Errand boy at Boots the Chemist before enlisting in 1935. Joined the RAF Regiment in 1942 and served in Amman, Jordan, with 21 LAA Sqn for five years and with the Queen's Flight. Was the SWO at the RAF Regiment Depot Catterick in 1957. Retired in 1965 and joined the Post Office.

Ken Hawkins - Lincolnshire Branch Chairman  It is with great sadness that we have to report the death of Lincolnshire Branch Chairman, Ken Hawkins. Ken, a staunch member of the branch, was rushed in to Leicester Hospital; over the weekend of 9/10 December. An operation which followed was unsuccessful as it was discovered that he had peritonitis and this proved fatal with other complications.  Ken's wife, June, and other members of the family were at his bedside throughout until the end. Sadly, Ken passed away at 1600 hrs on 14 December 2006. Everyone in the Branch is thinking of June and the family members at this sad time.  Ken was a great supporter of the Lincolnshire Branch and an ardent "Armoured Car Man". He was always keen to lend a hand and join the Branch's various activities. Ken will be sadly missed by us all for his generous support and jovial nature. Memories of him will remain with us all for the rest of our lives.

Norman Wildbore   It is with deep regret that I must announce the death on Thursday 4th August 2006, of Birmingham Branch member former Gunner Norman Wildbore of Enderby, Leicestershire. Norman enlisted on 13th June 1947 and after his Basic Training at RAF Padgate and No 6 School of Recruit Training, RAF Innsworth, he was posted to RAF Credenhill to complete an Equipment Course where he qualified as an Equipment Assistant. He was then posted to RAF El Hamra in Egypt where he joined A Flight, 2 (Armoured Car) Squadron. He served with that Squadron in Jerusalem, RAF Amman, Transjordan, RAF Habbaniya, Iraq and back to RAF El Hamra. Norman was posted back to the UK on completion of his service and was discharged on 25th July 1949. He was awarded the General Service Medal (Palestine). Such was his affection for his service career that he named his house "Habbaniya".

Former Sergeant George Chapman (Birmingham Branch Member)  It is with deep regret to announce the death of Birmingham Branch member, former Sergeant George Chapman of Machynlleth, Powys, Wales. During his long membership of the Birmingham Branch, he was a consistent benefactor to the Birmingham Branch in particular and to the RAF Regiment Association in general. George began his military career in the 1930’s when he joined the Irish Guards. On 6th July 1940, he joined the Royal Air Force and served, first as a Ground gunner and later, as a member of the RAF Regiment. During his service in the RAF, in 1941 he became an Instructor and a member of the Demonstration Team at Filey.
In addition, in that year, he also became the RAF Southern Area Lightweight Boxing Champion. George later served in South East Asia Command (SEAC) and in addition to his other medals, was awarded the Burma Star. George served throughout the Second World War and completed his service on 2nd May 1946 when he was discharged.  After his service, George developed a very successful career in publishing. As well as being a long serving member of the RAF Regiment Association, George also joined the Irish Guards Association and eventually became President of his local branch.

Rabbi Burns  Former RAF Regiment SAC Rabbi Burns, born 30 Mar 36, died on 29 Feb 08 aged 71. He served from 1954-66 in the Middle East (Suez), RAF Bridgenorth, 34 Sqn RAF Regiment at RAF Nicosia, 2 (Fd) Sqn RAF Regiment at RAF Malta, RAF Felixstowe and 63 Sqn RAF Regiment at RAF Tengah.  He was survived by his wife, Nan, to whom the Corps extends its sincere condolences.

Horace Holmes  Former RAF Regiment LAC Horace Leslie Holmes (Les), born 7 Feb 1921, died 23 Feb 2008, aged 87. He was called up for RAF service at the outbreak of WWII and transferred to the RAF Regiment on its formation. Served throughout the War on 2763 and 2724 Sqns RAF Regiment until the end of the War. Left the Corps in Mar 45 and joined the Royal Military Police, with which he served for a further five years.

Trevor Randall  Former RAF Regiment SNCO Trevor Norton Randall died on 16 Jun 08. One of the founder members of the RAF Regiment in Feb 42, he served in Egypt, Malaysia, and went ashore at Juno Beach on D-Day 1. Towards the end of his service in 1945, he served in Iraq.

James Warrington  Former RAF Regiment Sgt James Warrington, born 14 Aug 30, died on 16 Jun 08. Enlisted 7 Apr 54. Last tour of duty was with 37 Sqn RAF at Catterick from Sep 69-Oct 70, when he remustered to RAF Admin Trade. Served until 14 Jul 77.

Ken Chapman  Former RAF Regiment Sqn Ldr Ken Chapman, born 19 Jul 15, has died at the age of 93 on 29 Jun 08. Commissioned on 19 Aug 44, he was promoted to Sqn Ldr on 1 Jan 54 and retired on 29 Sep 57. He lived in France for a number of years, before residing in the RAFA Sussexdown Home until his death. He was a member of the Sussex Branch of the RAF Regiment Assoc.

D Elliot  Former RAF Regiment LAC Gunner D Elliot has died on 23 Jun 08, following a short illness. He joined the RAF as a National Serviceman in 1955 and served with 66 Sqn RAF Regiment in Aden until his discharge in 1957. He was a staunch supporter of the Southend Branch of the RAF Regiment Association.

Norman Gerrish MM  We regret to announce the death of former RAF Regiment FS Norman Phillip GERRISH, MM, on 1 Jun 08 at the age of 87. As a sergeant in charge of a rifle flt of 2708 Sqn RAF Regiment, performed magnificently during the action at Meiktila airstrip in Burma. Despite his leg wound, he rallied his men, taking over a light machine gun and engaging the enemy to good effect. His fire was so effective that al his personnel were able to cross open ground to reach cover. Only then did he join his men - in full view of the enemy. As the Military Medal citation reads: 'His courage, determination and leadership were instrumental in holding two companies of the Japanese and for their ultimate defeat, during which 20 of the enemy were killed. He set a magnificent example in the face of strong opposition'.

Norman Gerrish was born in Bristol on 1 May 21. He joined the RAF in 1941 as a Ground Gunner, shortly after his 20th birthday. After recruit trg, he joined 2810 Sqn RAF Regiment on as an AC2. He remained with 2810 Sqn for 3 years and rose to the rank of sgt. He also served briefly with 2882 Sqn before joining 2708 sqn RAF Regiment on 25 Oct 44. He embarked with the sqn on 12 Dec 44 for overseas service in the Far East. He remained with 2708 sqn throughout the Burma campaign, finally reaching Hongkong, where the Sqn disbanded in may 46. He was promoted to A/ FS in Mar 46 and was discharged from the RAF on 19 Oct 46. He was the Chairman of the Bristol & Bath Branch of the RAF Regiment Assoc until his death.

James  Shaw   Former RAF Regiment Gunner James (Jim) Shaw died on 13 May 08 in NSW, Australia. Joined the RAF in 1953. After RAF Basic Trg was posted to Dumfries for Regiment Trg. Then posted to RAF Watchet for LAA conversion and, from there, went to7/31 (LAA)Sqns RAF Regiment at RAF Wunsdorf in 1954. Was then posted to 48 Sqn RAF Regiment at RAF Aldergrove, NI. He was discharged in 1957 and went to live in Perth but eventually emigrated to Tasmania.

Walter Oliver  Former Ground Gunner and RAF Regiment Gunner Walter OLIVER, born 20 Jun 16, died on 27 Mar 08 aged 91. He enlisted in May 40 and served with 2741 Sqn RAF Regiment at RAF Manston and in Egypt, Palestine Sicily, Algiers, Belgium and Germany. He was demobilized in 1946 and was a founder member of the Norfolk Branch of the RAF Regiment Assoc.

Edward Hudson  Former Gnd Gunner and RAF Regiment Gunner Edward Herbert HUDSON has died. He served between 1941-46 in India, Burma and Japan.

Wg Cdr John David O'Dwyer-Russell OBE  Former RAF Regiment , born 31 Aug 30, died on 26 Apr 08, aged 77, after a long illness. He was commissioned on 31 Aug 50 and promoted to Wing Commander on 1 Jan 73. He commanded, among others, II Sqn RAF Regiment at RAF Colerne and 5 Wg RAF Regiment at RAF Wittering. He retired on 31 Aug 85.

Franklin Crocker Former RAF Regiment officer Fg Off Franklin CROCKER, born 13 Dec 22, died on 27 Jul 08 aged 85. He served from 1942, initially as an LAC on Bofors in the South-East of England, before being commissioned. He served in Aden before retirement in 1947.

Hugh McGregor Former RAF Regiment SAC Hugh McGREGOR has died. He enlisted at RAF West Kirby on 27 Jan 57 and served at various units including RAF Stations Catterick, Weeton and Felixstowe until discharged on 16 Jan 60.

John Street  Former RAF Regiment Gunner John STREET, born 8 Jan 32, died on 25 Jul 08 after a long battle with cancer. Served from 1950-55 on both 15 and 26 Sqns RAF Regiment. RAF Regiment Assoc member (Essex Branch) since 2000.

Bill Walker Former RAF Regiment Gunner Bill WALKER has died. The funeral has already been held and no further details are currently available. The Corps extends its sincere condolences to any surviving family.

Gordon William Pocock   Former RAF Regiment Sgt Gordon William Pocock, born 19 Apr 22, died on 11 Jul 08 aged 86. He served in France, Belgium, Holland, Germany, Denmark on 2740 and 2829 Sqns RAF Regiment, and at RAF Gravesend and Biggin Hill during the period 1942-47.

Tony Newham  Former RAF Regiment Gunner Tony Newham has died. He was a former member of the Bromley Branch of the RAF Regiment Assoc.

Arthur ('Chum') Pearson  Former RAF Regiment Cpl, Arthur ('Chum') Pearson, born 18 Apr 36, died on 22 Apr 08 aged 72. He served between 1954-58 on 28 (LAA) Sqn RAF Regiment at Fazburg and at RAF Guetersloh, West Germany. He was a member of the Cambridgeshire Branch of the Association.

Ralph Walker  Former RAF Regiment Gunner Ralph Walker died recently. He served from 1946-56 on, among others, 59 (Rifle) Sqn RAF Regiment at RAF Vahn, 17 (LAA) Sqn RAF Regiment at Celle and also in Egypt. He was a keen supporter of the Tyne & Wear Branch of the RAF Regiment Assoc.