George Barclay (RAF officer) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Barclay
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Barclay in 1941
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| Born | 7 December 1919 South London, England |
| Died | 17 July 1942 (aged 22) El Alamein, Egypt |
| Buried |
El Alamein War Cemetery, Egypt
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| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
Royal Air Force |
| Years of service | 1939–1942 |
| Rank | Squadron Leader |
| Unit | No. 249 Squadron No. 611 Squadron |
| Commands held | No. 238 Squadron |
| Battles/wars | Second World War |
| Awards | Distinguished Flying Cross |
Richard George Arthur Barclay, DFC (born December 7, 1919 – died July 17, 1942) was a brave pilot for the Royal Air Force. He was known as a "flying ace" because he shot down many enemy planes. Richard Barclay fought in the Second World War. He was killed in action during a big battle called the First Battle of El Alamein.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Richard Barclay was born in South London, England, on December 7, 1919. His father, Gilbert, was a church leader called a rector. His mother, Dorothy, was the daughter of a famous missionary. Richard grew up in a house called a rectory in Great Holland, on the coast of Essex.
He went to several schools, including Hawtreys and Stowe School. Later, he studied at Trinity College, Cambridge. In 1938, he joined the University Air Squadron. This was a group that trained students to fly.
Fighting in World War II
When the Second World War began, Richard Barclay joined the Royal Air Force. In July 1940, he became part of No. 249 Squadron RAF. He flew during the Battle of Britain. This was a very important air battle where British pilots defended their country.
Battle of Britain Hero
During the Battle of Britain, Richard Barclay showed great courage. He even wrote in his diary that he could see his own house while flying his plane! For his bravery, he received the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) in October 1940. This award is given for showing "exemplary gallantry during active operations against the enemy in the air."
His award citation from November 1940 said:
Flying Officer Richard George Arthur Barclay (74661), Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve – No. 249 Squadron. This officer has shown admirable coolness and courage in combat against the enemy. His keenness and determination have enabled him to destroy at least four of their aircraft.
Shot Down and Escape
In September 1941, Richard Barclay was a flight commander with No. 611 Squadron RAF. His plane was shot down over France, which was controlled by the enemy at the time. He had to make an emergency landing.
However, he managed to escape capture. With help from the French Resistance, a secret group fighting the enemy, he made his way to Spain. This was a very dangerous journey.
Return to Flying
After his escape, Richard Barclay was sent to North Africa in April 1942. He returned to flying as the Commanding Officer (CO) of No. 238 Squadron RAF. He flew Hawker Hurricane Mk II planes.
Final Battle
On July 17, 1942, Richard Barclay was shot down and killed. This happened during the First Battle of El Alamein in Egypt. He was buried at the El Alamein War Cemetery in Egypt.
Richard's older brother, Charles, who was an army officer, also died in the war in 1944.
His Diaries
Richard Barclay kept diaries throughout his time as a pilot. These diaries were published in 1974. They offer a rare and detailed look into the life of a fighter pilot during 1940–1941. An updated version of his diaries was published in 2012.
Images for kids
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Barclay in 1941
