Edward Wolfe (RAF officer) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Edward Chatham Wolfe
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|---|---|
| Nickname(s) | Ron |
| Born | 11 June 1911 Hong Kong |
| Died | 19 April 1994 (aged 82) |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 Royal Air Force |
| Rank | Wing Commander |
| Battles/wars | World War II |
| Awards | Distinguished Flying Cross |
Edward Chatham Wolfe (born June 11, 1911 – died April 19, 1994) was a brave pilot in the Royal Air Force during World War II. He was known as a Wing Commander. He played an important part in the famous air battle called the Battle of Britain.
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Edward Wolfe's Early Life
Edward Wolfe was born in Hong Kong on June 11, 1911. His father was a high-ranking officer in the Hong Kong Police and Fire Brigade. Edward went to school in England at Grange School and Tonbridge School.
Before becoming a pilot, he worked with a company that made fire engines. He started as an apprentice, learning the trade. Later, he became a salesman and helped prevent fires.
When he was 16, Edward had a short airplane ride. This flight made him decide he wanted to become a pilot.
Joining the Royal Air Force
Edward Wolfe joined the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve on March 4, 1935. He started as an untrained pilot. He began his flight training at Hatfield. On March 18, 1935, he was promoted to Sergeant.
In January 1936, Wolfe officially joined the RAF. He continued his training at Brough. He earned his first pilot's license on March 5, 1936. By July 30, 1936, he had earned his RAF pilot wings.
Flying for the RAF
On October 11, 1936, Wolfe joined No. 64 Squadron RAF. He flew Hawker Demon aircraft. He also took a parachute course. In January 1937, he became a Pilot Officer. By May 1938, he was leading 'B Flight' for his squadron. He was promoted to Acting Flight Lieutenant.
In October 1938, Wolfe moved to No. 219 Squadron RAF. He became the 'B' Flight Commander there. He flew Blenheim Mk 1 planes for night-fighting missions.
The Battle of Britain
When the Battle of Britain began in July 1940, Wolfe was flying with Pilot Officer Howard Duart. Most of his patrols were in the Catterick area. He also did training exercises and gun firing practice.
On September 3, 1940, Wolfe was promoted to Flight Lieutenant. He then took command of No. 141 Squadron RAF. This squadron flew Defiant aircraft. His job was to train them for night-fighting. He often flew with Sergeant Alfred Ashcroft as his gunner. This partnership lasted for two years. He was promoted to Acting Squadron Leader on October 6, 1940. In April 1941, his squadron moved to Scotland.
Earning the Distinguished Flying Cross
Edward Wolfe was recommended for a special award called the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC). This award is given for bravery in air combat. He received it on May 14, 1941.
The recommendation described a brave mission. On the night of May 6, 1941, Wolfe was flying over Glasgow. He spotted an enemy aircraft. He flew very close to the enemy plane. He told his gunner to wait until they were only 20 yards away. His courage helped him stay close to the enemy. The enemy plane crashed and caught fire.
Wolfe had flown many night missions. He showed great skill and courage. His leadership inspired other pilots in his squadron.
Later War Service
In November 1941, Wolfe's gunner, Ashcroft, became an officer. On December 1, Wolfe was made a Temporary Squadron Leader.
On March 27, 1942, Wolfe was promoted to Acting Wing Commander. He took command of No. 456 Squadron RAAF. They flew Beaufighter MkII's for night-fighting. Ashcroft joined him as his gunner. This squadron also helped protect convoys during the day.
In December 1942, the squadron received new de Havilland Mosquito planes. Wolfe flew these planes for many hours. After this, he attended a special staff course. He then became the Chief Flying Instructor at RAF Ouston.
In August 1943, Wolfe went to the United States. He took courses at the US Air Force Staff College. He also earned a diploma from the Command and General Staff School.
When he returned to the UK in November 1943, Wolfe worked as an Operations Staff Officer. He moved to different headquarters, helping with communications and training. On July 1, 1944, he was promoted to Temporary Wing Commander.
In May 1945, he went to Norway for staff work. He received a Mention in Dispatches for his service. On November 17, 1945, he was awarded the Norwegian Liberation Cross. This was given by King Haakon VII of Norway for his help in Norway.
After the War
Edward Wolfe left the Royal Air Force on December 17, 1945. He kept his rank of Wing Commander. By then, he had flown 36 different types of aircraft. He had spent over 2,000 hours flying.
Edward Wolfe passed away in 1994.
