Bill Loxton facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bill Loxton
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Wilfrid William (Bill) Loxton
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| Born | 20 January 1909 Gretton, Gloucestershire |
| Died | 2 November 1992 (aged 83) Puddletown, Dorset |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Years of service | 1928–1933, 1939–1946 |
| Rank | Squadron leader |
| Unit | No. 25 Squadron RAF |
| Battles/wars | Second World War: |
Wilfrid William Loxton (born January 20, 1909 – died November 2, 1992), known as Bill Loxton, was a brave British Royal Air Force pilot. He played an important part in the Battle of Britain during World War II.
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Who Was Bill Loxton?
Bill Loxton was born in a place called Gretton, Gloucestershire, in England. His parents were Ernest Robert and Mary Ann Loxton. Before he joined the military, Bill trained to be a carpenter. This means he learned how to build things with wood.
Joining the Royal Air Force
On April 30, 1930, Bill Loxton joined the RAF, which stands for the Royal Air Force. The RAF is the United Kingdom's air force. He served in the RAF for several years.
A Hero in the Battle of Britain
During World War II, Bill Loxton became a very important pilot. He rose through the ranks and became a Squadron leader. A Squadron Leader is an officer who leads a group of planes and pilots.
Leading No. 25 Squadron
Bill Loxton was the Squadron Leader of No. 25 Squadron RAF. This squadron was a special group of fighter planes. They flew planes like the Bristol Blenheim and later the Bristol Beaufighter. These planes were used to protect Britain from enemy attacks, especially at night.
The Battle of Britain
No. 25 Squadron, led by Bill Loxton, took part in the Battle of Britain. This was a huge air battle fought in the skies over Britain in 1940. British pilots, including Bill Loxton, bravely defended their country against attacks from enemy aircraft. The pilots who fought in this battle are often called 'the few'. This famous phrase means that a small number of pilots saved many people.
Remembering a Hero
Because of his bravery in the Battle of Britain, Bill Loxton is remembered as one of 'the few'. His name is carved on the Battle of Britain Memorial, London. This special memorial was opened in 2005 to honor all the pilots who fought in the battle.
After the War
Bill Loxton continued to serve in the RAF even after the war ended. He reached a high rank, becoming a Wing commander. A Wing Commander is an even more senior officer in the air force.
Bill Loxton married Binkie Pattullo on August 6, 1938. They had two sons, Peter and David Loxton. David became a well-known producer in America. Bill Loxton passed away on November 2, 1992. He is buried next to his son Peter in a churchyard in Bere Regis, Dorset.
