Richard Hamblin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Richard Kaye Hamblin
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|---|---|
| Birth name | Richard Kaye Hamblin |
| Born | 16 December 1906 Fyzabad, India |
| Died | 30 August 1988 (aged 81) Alton, Hampshire, England |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 Royal Air Force |
| Years of service | 1924–1956 |
| Rank | Air Commodore |
| Service number | 16223 |
| Unit | No. 17 Squadron RAF No. 56 Squadron RAF |
| Commands held | No. 17 Squadron RAF No. 85 Squadron RAF No. 142 Squadron RAF |
| Battles/wars | World War II |
| Awards | Order of the British Empire (CBE) |
Richard Kaye Hamblin (born December 16, 1906 – died August 30, 1988) was a very brave pilot in the Royal Air Force, which is the UK's air force. He reached the high rank of Air Commodore. He was one of "The Few" pilots who flew Hawker Hurricane planes with No. 17 Squadron RAF during the important Battle of Britain in World War II.
Contents
Early Life and Air Force Start
Richard Hamblin was born in Fyzabad, India, on December 16, 1906. When he was four years old, he lived in Hampshire, England, with his grandfather.
In 1926, Richard joined the Royal Air Force as a flight cadet. This meant he was training to become a pilot. On July 30, 1926, he became a pilot with No. 56 Squadron RAF.
Training and Service in India
In 1930, Richard went to a special school. He trained to become a signals officer. This job involved managing communications like radio signals.
In October 1932, he was sent to No. 31 Squadron RAF in India. He later became a flight commander with No. 5 Squadron RAF. This role meant he was in charge of a group of planes. Before leaving India, he was promoted to Squadron Leader.
World War II Heroics
In 1938, Richard became the commanding officer of No. 142 Squadron RAF. This squadron flew Fairey Battle aircraft.
During the Battle of Britain, a major air battle, he flew missions with No. 17 Squadron RAF. This was a very dangerous time for pilots.
Later War Service and Awards
In November 1941, he took command of No. 85 Squadron RAF. This squadron flew Douglas Havoc planes.
On November 12, 1942, Richard married Elizabeth Bond. She was a member of the Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF).
Richard was recognized for his bravery four times during World War II. In 1946, he received a special award. He was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE).
After the War
After the war, Richard continued to serve in important roles. He was in charge of the Air Headquarters in West Africa. He also worked in personnel, helping manage air force staff.
In 1954, he became the Director of Personnel. He retired from the Royal Air Force in 1956. By then, he had reached the high rank of Air Commodore.
Richard Hamblin passed away on August 30, 1988, in Hampshire, England.
See also
