Author Topic: 1919 Birth, at Niagra Falls  (Read 2672 times)

Offline NickFenton

  • RootsChat Extra
  • **
  • Posts: 12
  • Census information Crown Copyright, from www.nationalarchives.gov.uk
    • View Profile
Re: 1919 Birth, at Niagra Falls
« Reply #9 on: Thursday 24 May 12 12:51 BST (UK) »
Boris,

You obviously know who James McCairns was?

Regards,

Nick

Offline BORIS ATTERBY

  • RootsChat Extra
  • **
  • Posts: 18
    • View Profile
Re: 1919 Birth, at Niagra Falls
« Reply #10 on: Monday 28 May 12 22:40 BST (UK) »
Boris,

You obviously know who James McCairns was?

Regards,

Nick

 I am slowly learning of his amazing escapades! Would love to hear more if anyone knows more!

Offline NickFenton

  • RootsChat Extra
  • **
  • Posts: 12
  • Census information Crown Copyright, from www.nationalarchives.gov.uk
    • View Profile
Re: 1919 Birth, at Niagra Falls
« Reply #11 on: Wednesday 30 May 12 11:25 BST (UK) »
Boris,

Have you read Hugh Verity's book, "They flew by moonlight"? That with give you a good insight into the exploites of this SOE ferry pilot, this decription does not describe him well. You will also find his bent nose cone in the IWM in London.

He previously flew with 616 squadron, a fighter squadron, which included Douglas Badder.

He was shot down on 6th July 1941 and joined my Father, ending up at Stalag IXc, Bad Sulza, when on 20th November 1941 with my Father. they made their first escape attempt only to be recaptured shortly afterwards.

He eventually escaped with another prisoner on 22nd January 1942 and returned to England, being one of only a very few escapees who was allowed to fly service again.

I know upon his return, he made contact up to his death with my Father's family but l have no records of this. These could be in the family somewhere.

I have sent my E Mail address to you under a private message.

Regards,

Nick