johnnie
October 19, 2016 at 1:04 pm

Robert Colin Wylde, Navigator

Dear All,

This is a bit of a needle in a haystack search, but I’m trying to find out more about an RAF navigator named Robert Colin Wylde who served in the RAF from 1952-1968. I have various dates for his promotions from the London Gazette (his number was 2563346), and I know he served in the Malaya Campaign, but I have no idea which Squadron(s) he served with.

I know it’s a long shot, but so any members have a mention of him in their files, of have they ever come across him.

Any help at all would be great.

Johnnie

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By: Resolute76 - 12th November 2024 at 01:34

Hi Johnnie

I know I am a bit later here … but did you ever manage to find out any extra information on Robert Colin Wylde 2563346 ?

I am currently researching the history of RAF 76 Squadron during the Cold War in the 1950’s and Robert Colin Wylde participated in the British Nuclear Tests .

I understand he was in a tracker plane for Operation Antler 1 ( if you check the ORB Operational Record Books)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_nuclear_tests_at_Maralinga

The duties of RAF 76 Squadron during the British Nuclear Tests included:
– Flying through freshly bloomed thermo nuclear mushroom clouds to collect radioactive samples
– Conduct back ground sampling of the detonation
– decontamination of the Canberra B6s after they flew through the mushroom clouds…
– etc etc

Unfortunately this is not science fiction – it really happened :
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/No._76_Squadron_RAF

I would be interested to know if you managed to get in touch with any family members

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By: Adrienne - 23rd November 2016 at 12:18

Hi Johnnie
Think I may remember dad talking about you… Sad news is that Dad passed away last week.
Please private message me fo more info.

Regards

Adrienne

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