Leading Battle of France Ace?

[John Beaman]

I am curious who the leading RAF pilot would be, in terms of claims, during the "Phoney War" and the Battle Of France? This would not include any claims during the BoB. I have looked through Peter Cornwell's magnificent opus, Chris Shores' books, but see no such data/list. Have I missed some source for this info in my "multi-million dollar book collection" (as my wife claims!)?

Thanks

[Frank Olynyk]

John,
Off the top of my head, I would have to guess the New Zealander Kain, KIFA early in June while returning to England, with I think 17 victories. But check Aces High for his total.

Frank.

[FalkeEins]

not James 'Ginger' Lacey then..

[lingodog]

Sorry to be an old fogey, but I think the airmen felt they were part of a team, and it was the total number of destroyed and damaged enemy aircraft that mattered to them and not individual scores.

[Peter Cornwell]

Maybe so lingodog but there were certainly a few ambitious individuals who courted the celebrity. Anyhow, the official recording system was predicated upon individual claims and this also influenced the awards process. John, you will find something by way of an answer to your question on p439 of The Battle of France Then & Now.

[John Beaman]

Thanks, Peter. I had missed that page.