Charles Widdows - 29 Squadron question
 

On the 7th May 1941, Wing Commander Charles Widdows attacked a Ju 88 in his Beaufighter with Sgt Ryall as his observer. Due to return fire, Widdows was hit in the leg and upon landed noticed Ryall was missing.

Does anyone know what happend to Ryall? Did he survive? I've looked at the combat and general reports but it doesn't mention it.

Best Wishes,

Chris

Re: Charles Widdows - 29 Squadron question
 

No, he did not survive. He is "missing" and his name recorded on Runnymede.

He was Sgt Browne RYALL, age 25, 746911 from Redbourn, Herts.

Hope this helps.

Re: Charles Widdows - 29 Squadron question
 

Andy, that's great, thanks for the help!

'Men of The Battle of Britain' says he was ordered to bale out, do you know it that is true?

Re: Charles Widdows - 29 Squadron question
 

Without looking at the ORB or Combat Report, I couldn't say. Possibly so.

Re: Charles Widdows - 29 Squadron question
 

Ah ok. The reports just say on landing Widdows found Ryall to be missing, which makes me think that he didn't give the order, but then maybe he said later that he did? Hmm.

Thanks anyway Andy.

Re: Charles Widdows - 29 Squadron question
 

This is quite a nice shot of 29 Squadron. It is about the right period.

Don't have names to faces, though.

Re: Charles Widdows - 29 Squadron question
 

That is a cracking photo! :)

Re: Charles Widdows - 29 Squadron question
 

Beaufighter R2260.

Henk.

Re: Charles Widdows - 29 Squadron question
 

Thanks Henk.