The Biggin Hill Wing 1941: From Defence To Attack

The Battle of Britain of 1940 remains one of the most iconic chapters in British military history. The brave pilots of the Royal Air Force (RAF) fought valiantly against the German Luftwaffe in the skies above southern England, defending the country from invasion. But the story did not end there. In 1941, the RAF's Biggin Hill Wing emerged as a force to be reckoned with, transitioning from a defensive stance to launching deadly attacks on enemy targets.

The Birth of the Biggin Hill Wing

Located on the outskirts of London, Biggin Hill Aerodrome played a crucial role throughout World War II. Originally established as a training base, it quickly became an integral part of the country's air defence strategy. In 1941, the RAF decided to transform this vital base into a highly specialized unit known as the Biggin Hill Wing.

The Biggin Hill Wing consisted of several squadrons of Spitfire and Hurricane fighters, along with a dedicated ground crew. Its primary objective was to engage and disrupt enemy aircraft and to provide air support for offensive operations carried out by the RAF and the British Army.

The Biggin Hill Wing, 1941: From Defence to Attack

by Peter Caygill(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9901 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	406 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Transitioning from Defence to Attack

As the Battle of Britain shifted in favor of the Allies, the RAF recognized the need to take the fight to the enemy. Although still involved in defensive operations, the Biggin Hill Wing underwent rigorous training to equip its pilots for offensive missions. It was time to turn defence into attack.

The first major offensive operation for the Biggin Hill Wing came in the form of fighter sweeps over enemy-occupied Europe. These sweep missions involved penetrating deep into enemy territory, engaging any aircraft encountered, and causing disruption to German air defences. They were highly dangerous and required exceptional skill and bravery from the pilots.

One of the most significant early successes for the Biggin Hill Wing was Operation Starkey. On September 17, 1942, a large formation of Spitfires and Hurricanes led by the Wing targeted German airfields and installations in Northern France. The operation not only caused significant damage to enemy infrastructure but also boosted the morale of the Allied forces.

The Path to Victory

As the war progressed, the Biggin Hill Wing continued to play a crucial role in numerous offensive operations. Their expertise in aerial combat and precision bombing made them an indispensable asset to the Allied forces.

In 1943, the Wing conducted a series of daring daylight raids on German airfields along the French coastline. These raids aimed to destroy enemy aircraft on the ground, limiting their capability to challenge the Allied invasion plans for Normandy. Such missions required careful planning, expert execution, and nerves of steel.

Preparations for D-Day in 1944 marked a turning point for the Biggin Hill Wing. As part of the RAF Second Tactical Air Force, the Wing provided air cover for the landing forces, attacked enemy communications, and disrupted German reinforcements. Their efforts were instrumental in supporting the successful invasion of Normandy and the subsequent liberation of Europe.

The Legacy of the Biggin Hill Wing

The Biggin Hill Wing's transition from defence to attack showcased the adaptability and determination of the RAF and its pilots. From scrambling to defend the homeland to launching daring attacks deep into enemy territory, they played a pivotal role in turning the tide of war.

The Wing's actions during World War II earned them numerous accolades, including an impressive number of Distinguished Flying Crosses and other decorations. The brave pilots and ground crew of the Biggin Hill Wing exemplified the very best of British heroism and were instrumental in securing victory for the Allied forces.

To this day, the historic Biggin Hill Aerodrome stands as a testament to the remarkable achievements of the Biggin Hill Wing. Preserving the memory of their noble efforts ensures that future generations continue to appreciate their sacrifices and understand the pivotal role they played in the defense of the nation and the ultimate victory over tyranny.

www.bigginhillheritagehangar.co.uk

The Biggin Hill Wing, 1941: From Defence to Attack

by Peter Caygill(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9901 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	406 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

This book is an in-depth study of Englands most famous fighter station during the year of the Battle of Britain. It looks at the political upheaval within Fighter Command that saw the removal of Dowding and Park and their replacement by Sholto Douglas and Leigh-Mallory. The ongoing Big Wing controversy and the resulting change in tactics during 1941 are examined. The main part of the book is a chronological account of the squadrons of the Biggin Hill Wing with particular emphasis on the pilots. The units covered include No.'s 66, 72, 74, 92, 124, and 609 Spitfire Squadrons and 264 Defiant Night Fighter Squadron.The authors research is based on combat reports and squadron Operation Record Books and first-hand accounts written by the participant pilots in the battles over southern England and northern France. Extensive appendices will include Air Combat Claims of the Wing, Operational Aircraft Losses, Details of Selected Operations and The Great Escape the marked influence of ex Biggin Hill pilots on the escape from Stalag Luft III in 1944.