No. 218 Squadron RAF

218 Squadron aircrew at Woolfox 1944

Unit Colour patch

Brief History

Reformed on 16 Mar 1936, having previously formed in the final months of WW1. The Squadron flew Fairey Battles from French airfields in 1940 and suffered heavy losses while bombing the advancing German forces. Evacuated to England and re-equipped with Bristol Blenheim aircraft, and then Vickers Wellingtons. In December 1941 it was again to change aircraft , this time to Short Stirlings, all the while engaged in bombing raids on occupied Europe, from a number of different British airfields.

Pre Normandy landings, the squadron played a role in diverting German attention away from the proposed landing sites, before transferring in December 1944 to a transport role. Post the end of hostilities it performed a number of relief efforts in Europe, rescuing POWs and transporting foods and other supplies. 35 Australians lost their lives while members of 218 Squadron.

Aircrew

• † Thomas Douglas Ellis ? - 23 Sep 1943 Accidental death in UK

Individual Honours (Australians)

• 12 x Distinguished Flying Crosses
• 2 x Distinguished Flying Medals