Geoffrey Haysom
Geoffrey David Leybourne Haysom | |
|---|---|
| Born | 20 October 1917 Durban |
| Died | June 17, 1979 (aged 61) |
| Service/ | Royal Air Force |
| Rank | Wing Commander |
| Service number | 39736 |
| Commands held |
|
| Awards | |
David Haysom was a South African flying ace of World War II, credited with 6 'kills'.[1]
Haysome was born in Durban in 1917 and attended Durban High School[2] before going onto Natal University College, obtaining a BSc. He intended to study medicine at Edinburgh University but abandoned his studies to join the RAF on a short service commission in 1937.[1][3]
He joined 79 Squadron in 1938, flying Hurricanes.[1]
He commanded the squadron from June to September 1941 before being posted to the Middle East, joining 260 Squadron in July 1942. He was appointed Acting Wing Commander and posted as Wing Leader of 239 Wing three days after joining 260 Squadron.[1][3]
He was released from the RAF as a Group Captain in 1946. He died in 1979[1][3]
References
- ^ a b c d e Shores, C; Williams C. Aces High: A Tribute to the Most Notable Fighter Pilots. Grub Street. ISBN 1-898697-00-0.
- ^ https://www.dhsfoundation.co.za/our-community/
- ^ a b c Wynn, Kenneth (2015). Men of the Battle of Britain. Frontline Books. ISBN 978-1473847675.
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