Conversations with Norman Didwell

Conversations with Norman Didwell

Transcript of discussions and includes information from a letter dated 21 April 1986. Norman Didwell was flight rigger on 99 Squadron at Mildenhall and Newmarket and then at Middle East staging posts, Transport Command RAF Waterbeach and Gatow (Berlin). Firstly covers joining RAF and early experience on 99 Squadron. Wellingtons and the outbreak of war. Describes activities and squadron life as well as providing information on various personnel. End section with posting to RAF Boscombe Down and then the Middle East. Mentions Squadron Leader T G Kirby-Green (the great escape) shot down in 40 Squadron Wellington. Briefly describes operations. Goes on to describe work at RAF Boscombe Down and in the Middle East. Goes back to early days on 99 Squadron when equipped with Heyford. Continues with several anecdotes describing events from his time at RAF Mildenhall with 99 Squadron. Speak of his flight and squadron commanders (Squadron Leader Griffiths, Wing Commander Ford, H E Walker, Dixon-Wright and P Heath). Goes on to speak pf other commanding officers he served under and his air officer commanding 3 Group. Covers some events at reformation of squadron in 2001 includes mention of Group Captain P C Pickard DSO DFC. Continues with discussion of other officers and events including casualties and losses. Mentions Wing Commander Ercolani an his career. Gives some more details of Kirby-Green (shot after great escape from Stalag Luft 3 in March 1944). Covers end of service after the war to 1952. Continues with more anecdotes of time on 99 Squadron. Mentions meeting Douglas Bader after the war. Speaks about other wartime personalities and experiences in the Middle East. Provides some comment on 99 Squadron's move to India. Continues with accounts of incidents during Berlin air lift. Added conversation about activities of the Wellington development flight and arrival of that aircraft on 99 Squadron as well as ground crew and aircrew activity in early days. Comments on structure and ranks on the squadron. Final section provides comments on Squadron Leader Geoff (Ginger) Rothwell, photos of 99 Squadron personnel, painting of Wellington being shot down.

Eighteen page printed document

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