The last Battle of Britain Ace has passed. - 02/05/20
This must have slipped by us, couldn't find it here on a search. He died last week.
https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/last-battle-of-britain-fighter-pilot-ace-dies-at-101
A Hurricane Ace, I've always been fascinated by those who succeeded while flying that aeroplane, handicapped as it was against the Bf 109.
Malta and North Africa were also particularly tough gigs.
Classic British reserve and understatement at its finest
https:/
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Paul Farnes was one of 3,000 Allied airmen who fought in the Battle of Britain in 1940 and the only surviving ace — a Hurricane pilot who brought down five or more German aircraft. Over the course of 3 1/2 months from July to October, his tally was six aircraft destroyed, one probably destroyed, and six damaged.
A Hurricane Ace, I've always been fascinated by those who succeeded while flying that aeroplane, handicapped as it was against the Bf 109.
Quote
The Battle of Britain claimed the lives of 544 Royal Air Force pilots and aircrew. Farnes was later commissioned as an officer and served in Malta, North Africa, and Iraq.
Malta and North Africa were also particularly tough gigs.
Quote
"It was just part of my life. I’ve got no particular feelings about it. I quite enjoyed it, really.”
Classic British reserve and understatement at its finest