Mitchner, 263 Squadron 1941-42
 

According to records Sgt John Davidson Mitchner flew just seven hours in the Whirlwind from September 1941 until June 1942, a period of nine months. 263 Squadron was active in thiis period but perhaps in a quiet sector? Mitchner had an average or below average assessment as a pilot in training.

Other Canadian pilots were assigned to Whrirlwind squadrons and at least one made significant scores later in the war flying Spitfires.

Mitchner was sent back to his OTU in June 1942.and joined a Hurricane squadron (247) and then a Canadian (402) Spitfire squadron where he began his career as a high scoring pilot.

Keith

Re: Mitchner, 263 Squadron 1941-42
 

Hello,

Mitchner was diagnosed with diabetes whilst on 263 Sqn, which prevented him becoming operational on Whirlwinds.

See:
263 And 137 Squadrons The Whirlwind Years.
Bowater,Robert,
N.p:Fonthill Media,2013.
p.249 (see also pp.10, 84, 86[photo] & 254.

Col

Re: Mitchner, 263 Squadron 1941-42
 

Many thanks Col :)