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John Freeborn

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Wing Commander John Freeborn DFC* holds the distinction of having flown more operational hours than any other RAF pilot during the Battle of Britain. He joined the RAF in 1938, and started WWII with 74 Squadron, flying Spitfires. He fought over the Dunkirk evacuation (covering the BEF’s famous escape) and then through the Battle of Britain.

On 6th September 1939 he took part in the Battle of Barking Creek - a tragic misunderstanding during which two Hurricanes were shot down by RAF Spitfires - thereby becoming the first aircraft destroyed by a Spitfire, and the first RAF pilot to die in WWII.

He also served with 57 OTU, 602 & 118 Squadrons, and later promoted Wing Commander of 286 Wing in Italy. He survived the war, credited with 17 “kills”.

References

  • Tiger Cub - The Story of John Freeborn DFC* (John Freeborn & Christopher Yeoman) ISBN: 9781848840232
  • The One Show, BBC 3rd September 2009
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