Ch 1: Early Days

I grew up in Cardiff, and attended Canton High School, until it was bombed early in 1941.

Ch 2: Apprentice, Air Despatch, Ltd.

I learned the basics of aircraft maintenance ….

Ch 3: The R.A.F. Beckons

…. until I realized that with my experience, I could join the R.A.F as a Flight Engineer.

Ch 4: I Join The R.A.F.

Cadet training at The Initial Training Wing, Newquay, Cornwall.

Ch 5: Flight Engineer School

I learn everything about the Lancaster.

Ch 6: Flying!

The Australian pilot, Alf Cowley, selects me as his Flight Engineer, and the crew learns to operate the Lanc.

Ch 7: Chedburgh

The sprog crew is operational at last.

Ch 9: The Damn Cookie

In which the 4,000lb “cookie” bomb hangs up, and I hack it free with an axe!

Ch 10: Leave

We were granted six day’s leave every six weeks.

Ch 11: Our Last Few Missions

Including a 9½ hour flight to Berlin and the sinking of the Admiral Scheer.

Ch 12: Relief Of The Dutch

The Manna Drops: We flew food into Rotterdam and The Hague, and were nearly shot down!

Ch 13: Burma

After the war, the R.A.F.s sent me to Mingalaon. I had no idea why? I still don’t.

Ch 14: Back To Civilian Life

Margaret and I are married.

Ch 15: Australian Visit

In 2001, I reconnect with Alf in Cowra, Australia.