Joseph Kayll facts for kids

Joseph Robert Kayll (12 April 1914 – 3 March 2000) was a brave Royal Air Force fighter pilot. He was known as a flying ace during the Second World War. A flying ace is a pilot who shoots down many enemy aircraft.

A Brave Pilot's Journey

Joseph Kayll, also known as Joe, joined the Auxiliary Air Force in 1934. This was a volunteer air force group. He served with No. 607 (County of Durham) Squadron. He quickly moved up in rank to become a flight lieutenant.

When the war started, he became a full-time pilot. In early 1940, he fought in France. He then took part in the famous Battle of Britain. During this time, he led No. 615 (County of Surrey) Squadron. He was an acting squadron leader.

Hero of the Battle of Britain

During the Battle of Britain, Joe Kayll was very successful. He was credited with shooting down seven German planes. He also helped shoot down another, and six more were likely destroyed. Six other planes were damaged by him.

For his amazing efforts, he received two important awards. These were the Distinguished Service Order and the Distinguished Flying Cross. King George VI himself presented these awards to him.

In 1941, he was promoted again. He became a wing commander. This meant he was in charge of the Hornchurch wing. This group included three Spitfire squadrons.

Captured as a Prisoner of War

Later in 1941, Joe Kayll was recognized for his bravery. This is called being "mentioned in dispatches". But in July, his plane was shot down over France. He was captured by the Germans and became a prisoner of war (POW).

He became the Senior British Officer (SBO) at one POW camp, Oflag IX. This meant he was the main British officer in charge. Later, he was moved to Oflag VI-B in Warburg.

In September 1942, Wing Commander Kayll escaped in a big breakout. He walked 90 kilometers with a friend. But they were recaptured near Fulda. He was then sent to Stalag Luft III at Sagan in May 1943.

Leading Escape Efforts

At Stalag Luft III, Joe Kayll was put in charge of the Escape Committee. This committee planned and organized escape attempts for the prisoners. He stayed a prisoner for the rest of the war. He helped coordinate many escape plans.

For his important work leading the escape efforts, he received another award. In 1946, he was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire.

After the war ended, he continued to serve. He rejoined the Royal Auxiliary Air Force. He commanded No. 607 (County of Durham) Squadron once more.

Life After the War

In his life outside the military, Joe Kayll served his community. He worked as a justice of the peace. This role involves dealing with minor legal cases. He also served as a Deputy Lieutenant of Durham. This is a ceremonial role, helping the King's representative in the county.

See also

• List of Deputy Lieutenants of Durham
• List of RAF aircrew in the Battle of Britain
• List of World War II aces from the United Kingdom