Ronald Gustave Kellett facts for kids

Ronald Gustave Kellett (born September 13, 1909 – died November 12, 1998) was a brave English pilot. He was a stockbroker (someone who buys and sells shares for others) who became a famous "flying ace" during the Second World War. He served in the Royal Air Force, which is the UK's air force.

Early Life and Work

Ronald Kellett was born in Eldon, County Durham, England, on September 13, 1909. He went to Rossall School. After school, he started working as a postboy at the Liverpool Stock Exchange. When he was 18, he moved to London. There, he joined a company called Laurence Keen and Gardner, where he worked as a stockbroker.

Joining the Royal Air Force

In 1933, Kellett joined No. 600 Squadron Auxiliary Air Force. This was a part-time air force unit. Later, he also served with No. 616 Squadron RAF.

Fighting in the Battle of Britain

During the famous Battle of Britain in 1940, Ronald Kellett flew with No. 249 Squadron RAF. He also led No. 303 Squadron RAF. This was a very special squadron because it was the first group of Polish fighter pilots to fight in the war. The Polish government gave him an award called the Virtuti Militari 5th Class for his bravery.

When Kellett left the 303 Squadron, he wrote about the Polish pilots:

We fought together through the great offensive of 1940 and I then knew that the pilots of No. 303 Squadron were not only the best but would also see me through any troubles. In the month of September, 303 Squadron was on top – no squadron from the Empire could equal the courage and skill of our pilots, no bombing could daunt our airmen.

This shows how much he respected the pilots he fought alongside.

Leading Other Squadrons

In December 1940, Kellett started a new group called 96 Squadron. They were based at RAF Cranage in Cheshire. Their job was to protect the important port city of Liverpool.

He was promoted and, in March 1941, he took command of the fighter wing at RAF North Weald. By the end of 1942, he was given a break from flying in battles. During the war, he shot down 5 enemy planes for sure, probably 2 more, and damaged 1. This earned him the title of a "flying ace."

After his time flying in battles, he worked at the Air Ministry. In 1943, he taught at the Turkish Air Force staff college in Ankara, Turkey. When the war ended, he returned to the UK and left the military for a while.

Life After the War

After the war, Kellett went back to his job as a stockbroker in London. He worked there until he retired at age 64.

He also rejoined the Royal Auxiliary Air Force. He commanded No. 615 Squadron RAF at RAF Biggin Hill. He officially left the air force on October 1, 1953.

From 1949, he lived on a farm in Kent. He enjoyed country activities like hunting, shooting, and sailing. In 1973, he and his brother Alfred started a small vineyard to make wine. Sadly, their vineyard was destroyed by big storms in 1987.

Family Life

Ronald Kellett married Daphne in 1939. They had two sons and three daughters. Ronald Kellett passed away in Kent on November 12, 1998, when he was 89 years old. His wife Daphne had passed away in 1994.

Awards and Recognition

Ronald Kellett received several important awards for his bravery and service:

• October 1, 1940: He was given the Distinguished Flying Cross for his courage in flying against the enemy.
• October 25, 1940: He was also awarded the Companion of the Distinguished Service Order for his outstanding bravery in flying operations.
• December 1940: The Polish Government awarded him the Virtuti Militari 5th Class.