“I am surprised and a little bewildered. I was just one of a great many and there were far more distinguished pilots than me flying.
“My aircraft was cared for by a fitter and rigger – great chaps, both of them – and my only regret is that I cannot recall their names, because they deserve equal recognition for everything this wonderful aircraft achieved.
“When I commanded 317 Squadron at RAF Northolt, off-duty pilots went to the Orchard Hotel in Ruislip for a drink. There were Polish and British pilots, and civilians from the local area all drinking together. The landlord looked after the youngest and poorest pilots with particular care, and when he noticed a chap trying make his half pint of beer last the evening, he would discreetly send him a pint on the house.”
