Whirlwind Squadron Commander (later W/Cdr) Reggie Baker.

In the last few days W/Cdr John McClure (RCAF wartime volunteer Whirlwind pilot) who flew with Reggie has very kindly provided the following few lines about him, a narrative with which we know that Rev George Wood will also concur:

[I] I can never forget my arrival on 263 Sqd., as one of the two Flight Commanders and meeting the Squadron Leader for the first time. Almost immediately I had the sense that here was someone whom I could trust to lead us through any adverse situation. Reggie was a dynamic person who was quick to assess a situation and act appropriately. I enjoyed his enthusiasm and the professional manner in which he would brief us prior to an operational trip. With his pipe (ever present) at the ready, he would carefully outline the operational plan and leave no doubt as to what was expected of each pilot. Once airborne we had implicit faith in his able leadership.

Jim Munro is working with Reggie’s son Steve and daughter Helen to correct the omission and to instigate a renewed search for copies of wartime newsreel footage known to have been made of Reggie after the Abervrach Whirlwind raid.
If found, the soundtrack could reveal the sound of Reggie’s voice to his son and his daughter for the very first time ever…………………….

If anyone can help in locating this old newsreel it would add greatly to the historical content on the Whirlwind and those that flew them.

Many Thanks

Chris.