F.E.2b Pilot List

AMParsons · 31 March 2011, 02:32 PM

Hi

My grandfather flew and F.E.2b in the Great War. I know he managed to crash one on a test Flight in Norwich as I have the remains of the Prop. I am trying to find what squadron he flew in, it would have been near the end of the war.

Does anyone know of any squadron List that I can check? I can find nothing on the web

Many thanks

Alastair

Testerchild · 31 March 2011, 04:19 PM

Hi Alastair, and welcome to the forum.

Have you searched for your grandfather's service record? If not try looking at the National Archives website. If he was an officer he could be in the Army records under the headings of W.O. 339 or W.O. 374; if an R.A.F. officer he should be under Air 76. The R.A.F. officers' records can be downloaded, while (so far as I Know) you still have to note the file reference and make a personal visit for the Army ones. If he was R.A.F. 'other ranks' (and the R.A.F. did have NCO pilots) you should find him under Air 79. Hopefully the service record will show the units he was assigned to.

A longer shot maybe, and just off the top of my head, but 100 squadron was doing night bombing in F.E.2b's late in the war, and you might also search the National Archives to see if the Squadron Record Books have survived. If they have they should list every flight and the names of every crew member involved!

Try The National Archives
Good luck,

Bob

austin08 · 31 March 2011, 05:21 PM

Hi Alistair, welcome,

Cross and cockade have recently published their book on the Fe2b/d in service. This may provide more information for you. I have recently bought this book and it is worth the money.

Do you know the type of service or duties that your grandfather worked?

Home defence squadron / training squadron / Active service in france? This will also help narrow the field.

P.s Are you searching for 2 Lt LWB Parsons - 22nd Squadron
Daryl