John “Paddy” Hemingway, the last surviving pilot who fought in the Battle of Britain, has passed away peacefully at the age of 105. The Royal Air Force (RAF) confirmed the death of Hemingway, who was a distinguished member of “the Few” that defended Britain’s skies during the Second World War.
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Born in Dublin in 1919, Hemingway joined the RAF in 1938. He played a crucial role in the successful defence of Britain against the relentless air raids by the German air force, the Luftwaffe, between July and September 1940, following the fall of France. The RAF noted that the squadron in which Hemingway served (No. 85 Squadron) shot down an impressive 90 enemy aircraft in just an 11-day period in May 1940.
Throughout the Battle of Britain, which lasted from July to October 1940, Hemingway faced considerable danger. His aircraft was damaged over the Thames Estuary on Aug. 18th, forcing him to bail out, and he was shot down again over Eastchurch on Aug. 26th, becoming No. 85 Squadron’s first official combat victim over Britain. Despite these perilous experiences, he damaged a BF109 five days later and was promoted to flying officer on Sept. 3rd 1940. He was later awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross on Jul. 1, 1941. Hemingway ultimately retired from the RAF in 1974 with the rank of group captain.
British prime minister, Keir Starmer, paid tribute to Hemingway, acknowledging the “courage and determination of Paddy and all our brave RAF pilots” who “helped bring an end to the second world war”. Starmer highlighted their fearless service in protecting the UK and its allies. Despite his wartime contributions, Hemingway remained humble, often referring to himself as the “lucky Irishman” who was simply doing his job. He cherished the memories and moments shared with his comrades, many of whom did not return home.
British defence secretary, John Healey, stated that Hemingway’s generation “understood the importance of freedom and sacrificed so much to achieve it”. Air chief marshal Sir Rich Knighton, the chief of the air staff, described Hemingway as “an amazing character whose life story embodies all that was and remains great about the Royal Air Force”. Hemingway was the last of the Few following the death of Terry Clark in May 2020. His passing marks the end of an era for those who defended Britain in its darkest hour.
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