The Early Years of Ernest Fitchew

Ernest Fitchew, from Melbourne in Derbyshire, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross in 1943 for his gallantry and devotion as an RAF air-sea rescue pilot. The Derby Evening Telegraph reported that Fitchew chose flying as a career after leaving school. He was stationed at Calshot, a coastal village in Hampshire known for aircraft and flying boat development. Fitchew also served as part of a Sunderland flying boat crew. Before World War II, he served overseas, including in India, and earned the India General Service Medal. He joined 279 Squadron at its formation in 1941 as a Flight Lieutenant.

 

No. 279 Squadron RAF

Formed on 16th November 1941 at RAF Bircham Newton, No. 279 Squadron was an RAF air-sea rescue unit during World War II. Its motto was "To See and Be Seen." The squadron operated various aircraft, mainly Lockheed Hudsons, between 1941 and 1944. From 1943, these Hudsons carried Mark I airborne lifeboats. Detachments provided air-sea rescue support over the Bay of Biscay and Western Approaches from April 1942 to December 1943. The squadron disbanded on 10th March 1946.

 

Air Sea Rescue Operations

When Flight Lieutenant Ernest Fitchew joined 279 Squadron, he took charge of all training. As a Lockheed Hudson pilot, he carried out numerous search and rescue missions in challenging conditions.

A notable operation occurred in July 1943. Fitchew rescued American crew members of ‘Happy Daze,’ a Fortress bomber from the 94th Bomb Group. The aircraft had been attacked, broken in two, and sunk. Most of the crew escaped on two inflated dinghies. This rescue is detailed in Shot Down and in the Drink by Graham Pitchfork (p.144).

Fitchew played a key role. He had been patrolling for another Fortress crew when he was redirected to ‘Happy Daze.’ He dropped a smoke float, conducted a dummy run, and then dropped a lifeboat just 75 yards from the dinghy. The lifeboat drop was successful. Two survivors paddled over, boarded the lifeboat, and rowed to the others.

 

Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross (D.F.C)

Ernest Fitchew’s involvement in these missions, along with his exemplary conduct, bravery, and flying skill, led to strong recommendations for a Distinguished Flying Cross. Both the Station Commander of Bircham Newton and the Wing Commander of 279 Squadron supported the award. The Wing Commander’s citation stated, “He is no doubt the best Hudson pilot in the squadron, and on the operational side he has set an excellent example.”

 

Ernest Fitchew D.F.C Medal Group at Auction

 

Distinguished Flying Cross Medal Group awarded in 1943 to Squadron Leader Ernest Fitchew RAF

Lot 369
Distinguished Flying Cross Medal Group awarded in 1943 to Squadron Leader Ernest Fitchew RAF
Price Realised: £2,925.00

 

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