Last of the Few

William Walker, a Battle of Britain Royal Air Force pilot and one of the last of the few, has died aged 99. I was lucky enough to meet William on several occasions, lastly two years ago in September 2010 when I interviewed him for The Daily Telegraph to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the battle. Then he backed a call by the Officer Commanding the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight,  Ian Smith, who said that Battle of Britain day should be a time to reflect on all those who lost their lives in the conflict, not just the British pilots.  It was controversial call but a typically brave statement from a man who always had respect for all those pilots who put their lives on the line.

“It’s time to commemorate all the pilots who took part in the conflict. Unlike us many German pilots had already seen a lot of action over Poland and France. In contrast I was a complete rookie and went into action in June 1940 after just five hours training.” William told me. Two months later he was shot down over Dover by the Luftwaffe ace Werner Mölders.

Sqn Ldr Smith also paid tribute to him. “I knew William well and loved him dearly. I’m sure he’d agree with me that he is lucky to be alive. In fact getting shot down probably saved his life. Mölders fired up through the bottom of the cockpit, missing the armour plating and the bullet went straight into his ankle. William was wounded but lived to fight another day. In contrast Mölders was killed a year later. We need to celebrate the lives of both.”

1 Comment

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  Andy November 11, 2012 at 3:54 pm

  Years ago in our school curriculum they taught us about the Spanish Armada, and what an epic event it was in British history. There can be no doubt that the Battle of Britain is of equal historical importance, and the debt we owe to the pilots who fought for our freedom is totally incalculable. The courage and valour they showed in the face of the almost overwhelming odds against them is truly an inspiration to us all. This hopelessly inadequate comment may be all I can do to express my gratitude, but I have never written anything more sincerely.
  Thank you to William and his mates, and to everyone who fought and died enabling me to be here writing this message now. It’s November the 11th 2012, and I guarantee we will always remember. Not just today, but every day…

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