John Sergeant: The story of Paul Richey, a Second World War pilot

My brother still has his copy of “Combat Report”. However he doesn’t have any means of internet access so will not be able to see this excellent report which is a shame.

I enjoyed watching that again, i didn’t realise he had survived the war he certainly wasn’t one you hear about alot.

I was looking at the photograph of Paul Richey, possibly by Cecil Beaton, in one of that Saunders geezer’s “Finding The…” books only yesterday. It’s fascinating what a little lighting can do – the photograph is a hard-faced, steely warrior, while the painting that JS is discussing is a much softer person portrayed. If I could find a version online I’d link to the portrait I’m referring to.

Adrian

I was at a meeting and dinner in London yesterday, where Stratton Richey was present.
An extremely entertaining gentleman.

Very nice trumper, thanks.

Thank you for posting that – certainly some interesting paintings, and a clear concise potted history.

‘Fighter Pilot’ was among the first aviation/WW2 books I remember reading (when I was about 10 or 11 I would think), and I found it fascinating even then – it is one of the books that did so much to arouse my interest in aeroplanes.

Stratton Richey

Stratton Richey, airshow commentator and pilot is a relative of Paul’s.

Superb!

Agreed

Well spotted Trump!

Interesting paintings, several of which were new to me. Good commentary by Sergeant too.