This is the story of Morris Barnett M.B.E., 1914- 1998. (ex-F/Lt O/C 6223 BD Squad), as told by his son ...
In 1943, Squadron Leader Edward George Alford GM, was asked to recall his work at Kenley during the Battle of Britain. This extraordinary correspondence has been shared with the permission of Edward's daughter, Frances Hills Alford and her son, Brett. It has been transcribed as written by S/Ldr. Alford.
I was at school when war against Germany was declared by Neville Chamberlain in September 1939. It followed that I was on holiday during that summer of 1940 when the destiny of Britain, and of the free world, was being decided in the blue sky over southern England.
At a time when everyone faced mortal danger, the vital task of dealing with unexploded bombs stands out as one of outstanding risk and danger. Sadly, the exploits of those brave men were sometimes left unrecorded, and this seems to be the case for a terrible tragedy that took place in Whyteleafe.
It is tempting to think that we have nothing more to learn about 'The Hardest Day,' but somehow, one of Kenley's heroes has been overlooked, a Warrant Officer who was honoured for bomb disposal work which was pivotal in keeping Kenley operational during this vital stage of the Battle of Britain.
