Hector MacLean (RAF officer) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Hector MacLean
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|---|---|
| Born | 9 December 1913 Glasgow |
| Died | 19 July 2007 (aged 93) |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 Royal Air Force |
| Years of service | 1938–1950 |
| Rank | Wing commander |
| Service number | 90166 |
| Unit | No. 602 Squadron RAF |
| Commands held |
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| Battles/wars | World War II |
| Awards | AE & Clasp |
| Other work | Lawyer, Author |
Hector MacLean (born December 9, 1913 – died July 19, 2007) was a brave Wing Commander and a fighter pilot during the Battle of Britain. He was an important part of the Royal Air Force (RAF) during World War II. MacLean was known for his courage and skill in the air. He continued to serve his country even after a serious injury.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Hector MacLean grew up in Scotland. He went to St Ninian's Preparatory School in Moffat. Later, he attended Canford School in Dorset, England. He then studied at the University of Glasgow. In 1935, he earned a law degree from the university.
Joining the Royal Air Force
After finishing his studies, MacLean decided to join the Royal Air Force. He joined in November 1935. In March 1936, he became an officer. He joined No. 602 (City of Glasgow) Squadron. At first, he flew planes like the Hawker Hind and Hawker Hart.
Flying Spitfires in World War II
By 1939, his squadron started flying the famous Spitfire planes. These were very fast and agile fighter planes. Hector MacLean flew Spitfires throughout the Battle of Britain. This was a major air battle during World War II. He helped defend Britain from enemy attacks. He was credited with shooting down parts of two enemy planes. These were a Heinkel He 111 in December 1939 and a Junkers Ju 88 in July 1940.
A Brave Return to Base
On August 26, 1940, MacLean was flying over the English Channel. He was badly hurt during a fight. His plane was also severely damaged. Despite his injuries, he managed to fly his damaged Spitfire back. He made a difficult landing at RAF Tangmere air base. This was a very brave act.
Life After Flying
Because of his injuries, Hector MacLean lost his right leg below the knee. This meant he could no longer fly fighter planes. But he still wanted to help the war effort. He became a fighter controller. His job was to guide other fighter planes. He even helped direct planes when Rudolf Hess flew to Scotland in 1941. MacLean retired from the RAF in 1950.
Life After the War
After the war, Hector MacLean returned to his family's law business. He also wrote a book in 1999. It was called Fighters in Defence, Memories of the Glasgow Squadron. This book shared his experiences during the war. He was one of the oldest surviving veterans of the Battle of Britain. Hector MacLean passed away in 2007 at the age of 93. He is remembered as a hero who served his country with courage.
