R.W. Denison 236 (?) Squadron 1940

[Brian]

Hi guys

At least a couple of publications suggest that Dick Denison (a Canadian) served with 236 Squadron in 1940.

He claimed a He111 probable during late June 1940 while flying a Blenheim on a nocturnal sortie, but surely not with 236?

There is no mention of him in Andy Bird's book.

Cheers
Brian

[Hurri600]

Richard Warren Denison was in fact British being born in London, he was brought up in Canada.
He joined the RAF in 1935
After Training he was posted to 213 Squadron in 1937 at Church Fenton
he was still with the Squadron when it moved to Wittering and re-equipped with Hawker Hurricanes. He later was posted to 236 Squadron flying Bristol Blenheims during the Battle of Britain.
I do not know the date of this posting, but is it possible that this claim was made while he was still flying Hurricanes ?.

[Frank Olynyk]

Brian,
RW Denison claimed a damaged Ju-88 on July 17, 1940 while with 236 Sqn as a F/Lt. His WO/AG was P/O Arthur Owen Price; they were in Blenheim If L8684/D. This from Chris Goss and the Sqn ORB.

On March 10, 1941, while with 79 Sqn, he claimed a possible Ju-88 destroyed, in Hurricane I V6957. This from the ORB and CR (Air 50/33-50).

Enjoy!

Frank.

[Brian]

Hi Frank et al

This is what I have (I can't quote my source at present)

During a 01:40-02:25 patrol off the Isle of Wight, on the night of 26/27 June 1940, Canadian Flt Lt Dick Denison in a Blenheim of 236 Squadron, claimed a Heinkel probably destroyed. The aircraft was being held by searchlights and he attacked from astern. He opened fire, which was continued by the Blenheim’s gunner. Denison considered that the Heinkel was damaged and the rear gunner probably killed. “The searchlights,” he said, “were very efficient. They never left the target and never illuminated our aircraft,” but then the searchlights went off and the Heinkel was lost from sight.

Cheers
Brian

[Chris Goss]

Nothing in the CC Intsum for this night & puzzled why a CC ac was flying night missions?

[andy bird]

236, were asked to provide night fighter cover as part of Fighter Command on 27 June 1940. Will check at work on Monday in daily log for combat report.

[Brian]

Hi Andy

I hope you find something positive!

I was beginning to doubt my notebooks compiled over many years!

Cheers
Brian

[Steve Smith]

Hi all,

Can confirm that 236 did carry out a few night operations. Sergeant Smith & crew were up at 22.20hrs from Middle Wallop on the June 28th for two hours. Nothing found or reported.

Cheers

Steve

[Brian]

Hi guys

To answer my own query - Flt Lt Denison (with Plt Off Arthur Price as air gunner in Blenheim L1119) did claim a He111 as probaby destroyed on the night of 26/27 June 1940.

See forthcoming FIRST OF THE FEW!

Cheers
Brian