Charles Widdows - 29 Squadron question

[SpitfireZPC]

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

[Andy Saunders]

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.

[SpitfireZPC]

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?

[Andy Saunders]

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

[SpitfireZPC]

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.

[Andy Saunders]

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

Don't have names to faces, though.

[SpitfireZPC]

That is a cracking photo!

[Henk Welting]

Beaufighter R2260.

Henk.

[SpitfireZPC]

Thanks Henk.