I should have added that RAF Chaklala was in Rawalpindi, which was then in India but is now in Pakistan and is a Pakistani Air Force Base called Nur Khan. I have also now been told by family members that he was awarded three or four medals, including the Burma Star. Although I can’t find any evidence of him actually serving in Burma, I understand that some (paratroop?) operations carried out from Chaklala were against the Japanese occupation of Burma, so I’m wondering if this explains why. Again, I’d be very grateful for any help offered….

Hi Bunsen. Can you remember what the Canberras were being used for. I seem to think it may have been target towing but I doubt that, even back then, that role would not have justified the use of two squadron’s……

Hi Varsity, it may well be that you can help me, and you’re certainly my best chance yet…. Thanks, A

You’re spot on with your ages – I’m 58. Will follow your advice too. Thanks. Andrew

Thanks Bunsen, I’ll try that. I remember the Canberras (85 & 100 squadrons) but don’t recall their role. I also remember the Javelin gate guard, but must have missed (or forgotten) the Belgian DC6.

Thanks Lee and Paul. I hadn’t realised that the great man had been part of a team, that’s an interesting insight. I have obtained the whole of the Flight’s ORB from the NA and have looked at a number of references there, but they give few details about the aircraft used. I’ve been able to access one pilot’s log book and been kindly given a copy of another’s. I’ve also been able to identify virtually all of Unit’s aircraft and obtained copies of movement cards from Hendon but they have revealed nothing about the Unit’s codes. I strongly believe that Mr Sturtivant had seen a photo of the Hurricane showing full code letters but, if so, where is that photo now? I’m now trying to track all the people listed in the ORB (nearly 100 people) so I’m just hoping that more information wil come to light. Thanks all again, Andrew