[Graham Boak]

The other thought that occurs is that a Wing Commander has responsibility for a wide force. He would be in a position to direct sections (squadrons?) of that force in order to cope with any threat, or observed target, but he would only participate himself when the whole wing was involved in combat. Large battles such as this seem to be largely absent from the accounts of RAF actions. nder such circumstances, for a leader to abandon his responsibilities to seek personal gain would be inappropriate, even improper.

This would suggest that most kills would be claimed by Squadron leaders and Flight commanders, which appears to be the case.