Flying Officer Christopher John Drake Andreae

Christopher John Drake Andreae was a Londoner. He was educated at Shrewsbury School between 1930 and 1935. He then joined Caius College, Cambridge reading Natural Science.

A member of the University Air squadron, he was commissioned into the Reserve of Air force Officers (RAFO) in March 1937 and commissioned into the RAF Volunteer Reserve in January 1938. Andreae was called up towards the end of 1939, following his training at Cranwell, where he was commissioned in May 1940. He then moved to No.6 Operational Training Unit at Sutton Bridge in June and was posted to No.64 Squadron on 20th July.

His first recorded sortie with the squadron was on the afternoon of 25th July, with Sub-Lieutenant Dawson-Paul. He was also flying with Sub-Lieutenant Dawson-Paul when he was shot down later that evening. Launched as part of an interception patrol on 11 August, his aircraft suffered damage and returned safely to Kenley. On 15 August, he was part of a 12 aircraft interception patrol which engaged German Me.109s over the Channel, his aircraft was shot down but his body was not recovered.

Pilot Officer Christopher John Drake Andreae was the son of Frank George and Georgiana Andreae, of Paddington, London. He was 23 years old when he died. He is remembered on Panel 5 of the Runnymede Memorial.

Rest in peace Sir and thank you for your service.