Pre-war Squadron ORB question

[Peter Roberts]

I am wanting to research a pilot with 111 Squadron pre-war - Harry Hardman - and the Hurricanes he would have flown with the Squadron

Does anyone know if the RAF Squadrons had ORBs pre-war, and did they record this sort of detail - ie. flights by pilots and the aircraft used?

As I live in Australia, it's a bit hard to get to Kew, and I don't want to splash out money on research efforts if the information is non-existant, so would appreciate any help or information regards this.

Thanks

Peter Roberts

[Alan Clark]

Yes, they had ORBs from the start but the pre-war detail can be a bit hit & miss. I've never looked at 111 Sqn pre-war only a couple of wartime entries.

On the whole only operational flights were recorded and as there were no operational flights in peace time only 'significant' events warranted mention, such as the ACM or HM King visiting.

[Peter Roberts]

Thought as much. I think Harry flew with them early war days so may have to limit the research to those dates. I appreciate the help.

PR

[AUS_RAAF]

Hi Peter,

I too am in Australia and know that obtaining records from the UK can be an expensive process! Fortunately there are many online resources including forums such as this one.
Anwyay, you can access 111 Sqn’s complete ORB for the period 1939 to 1940 at the following fantastic link - http://www.oldrafrecords.com/index.php
You should find some flight details for Harry.

As you may know, Hardman was born in Australia to English parents and was with 111 Sqn from Sept 38 to Mar 39, Jul 40 to Sept 40 and Nov 40 to Jan 41. Possibly claimed a Do 17 damaged on 13 Aug 40 (maybe shared and/or a probable). He transferred to the A&SD Branch in 1944, however, I am uncertain of his interim postings between 41 and 44.

Regards, Drew