While Munro is famous as being the last surviving pilot from Operation Chastise, he was, ironically, one of those who failed to drop his mine, being hit by flak on the outward journey and losing all radio, which made the drop impossible.
He was later promoted to a flight leader role in 617, and took part in most of the raids in the early part of 1944 in which the squadron pretty much defined their rôle as a precision bombing force - he even led the squadron when Leonard Cheshire was on leave.
His passing leaves just two surviving Dambusters, "Johnny" Johnson (McCarthy's bomb aimer) and Fred Sutherland (Les Knight's front gunner).
"Above their wreath-strewn graves we kneel,
ReplyDeleteThey kept the faith and fought the fight.
Through flying lead and crimson steel
They plunged for Freedom and the Right."
We shall not see their like again.
RIP sir, and thank you for all your service.
ReplyDeleteA first class fellow.
ReplyDeleteMatt