robertb Posted 28 February , 2004 Share Posted 28 February , 2004 Thomas Hanford, native of Maesteg, Glamorgan, S. Wales, served in R.A.F. (?R.F.C.), 48 Squadron. He died on 10.10.18, and buried La Kreule, Hazebrouck, Belgium. If anyone has information relating to 48 Squadron, I would be only too pleased to know. Rob Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dolphin Posted 28 February , 2004 Share Posted 28 February , 2004 No 48 Sqn was was formed in April 1916 at Netheravon and went to France in April 1917, equipped with the Bristol F.2A. After changing to the improved Bristol F.2B, the squadron became an effective two seater fighter unit, claiming 317 victories by the Armistice. The leading pilot, in terms of victories, was Major Keith Park of New Zealand, who was credited with 20 (he went on to become Air Chief Marshall Park and is remembered for his vital role in the Battle of Britain). "Airmen Died" states that Pte Hanford died from pneumonia. A photograph of a Bristol F.2B from No 48 Sqn is below. I hope this helps. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Biplane pilot Posted 29 February , 2004 Share Posted 29 February , 2004 No. 48 was the first squadron to receive the BrisFit, commanded by Maj. Leefe-Robinson who won the second VC for downing a Zep. However, the new fighter's considerable potential was squandered by flying traditional 2-seater formation rather than flinging the big Bristol about as a "scout" with the gunner watching the tail. No. 48's initial engagement with Baron von Richthofen & Co. on 5 Apr 17 was wholly one-sided. However, at war's end the squadron was credited with some 317 victories (not to be confused with enemy a/c destroyed). Besides Keith Park, seven pilots scored in double digits. No. 48 was based at Reckem, Belgium, from 29 October 18. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
robertb Posted 6 March , 2004 Author Share Posted 6 March , 2004 Thankyou for the information Rob Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Terry Denham Posted 6 March , 2004 Share Posted 6 March , 2004 48 Sqdn's movements in 1918... Started year at Flez 22 Mar to Champien 24 Mar to Bertangles 28 Mar to Conteville 03 Apr to Bertangles 26 Aug to Boisdinghem 30 Sep to Ste Marie-Cappel 29 Oct to Reckem 17 Nov to Nivelles 19 Dec to Bickendorf They departed to India 26.05.19 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Matthew King Posted 10 June , 2004 Share Posted 10 June , 2004 Hi Robert I've been looking into the history of 48 Squadron as my Grandfather was an observer with them. All the information I have currently found I've out on a web site if you are interested. Sgt R.L.G.White Website During October 1918 the squadron where flying over the Belguim front. If I come across Thomas Hanford in my research I will be happy to forward the information on to you. Matt Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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