Hi all,
I agree that these images are commonly seen amongst us enthusiasts, however, they do serve a purpose in bringing history to the masses.
I have attached my own favourite ‘BoB pilot off duty’ image, and certainly one that I doubt would have been seen before. I hope that you enjoy seeing it.
It shows Rudolf Ptacek cooling off between sorties whilst with 615 Squadron at Northolt. I particularly like the trousers around the ankles look!
Best wishes
gerry

Jules,
I have a set of tunic buttons that were given to me by Squadron Leader Joce Millard a few years ago.
He told me that it was fashionable at the time to swap buttons with airmen serving in the RAF from other countries.
The French button was given to him by either Georges Perrin or Rene Mouchotte (he couldn’t recall which one for certain) the Polish button was given to him by Gorzula. (Whilst all were with 615 Squadron).

Hi Dilip,
Are you still working on a book about Dowding.
I know that you were interested some time ago (Lady Dowding informed me).
If so, when is it likely to be out?
Cheers
Gerry

Hi,
No, they are two different people entirely.
Wing Commander John Young flew civilian airliners post war and died last year.
The artist, John Young is still alive and exhibited at this years Guild of aviation art exhibition in London.
The signatures shown in your original posting are Bob Foster of 605 Squadron (Already identified) and John Young of 249 Squadron.
Hope that this clarifies it for you.
Best wishes
Gerry

I assume that these are being sold privately?
I hadn’t seen any up for sale recently.
Surely the purchaser can return to the source and demand their money back.
A very unsavoury affair indeed -I vote that the perpertrators are exposed and shamed.
I wonder how many other items are out there, presumed by their owners to be genuine. It will soon get to the point where discussions on forums such as this will result in arguments between two members, one armed with the facts and the other armed with what’s been produced years after the event and sold on as a genuine relic.
Gerry

Eric Lock or Tim Vigors.

How about Eric Lock of 41 Squadron.
A fantastic pilot and ace, very rarely see much about him.
Another favourite would be Tim Vigors of 222 Squadron. I have just finished reading his book and can’t praise it highly enough.
Gerry