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News > Archives & History > Pilot-Officer Francis (1938-42)

Pilot-Officer Francis (1938-42)

Pilot-Officer Francis (“Frank” Girvin Barbour) (1938-42)
Remembered on 25 July
Frank Barbour, R.A.F., was killed in a cine-gun dogfight practice off Corsica on 25th July. His Squadron had been on a sweep from Corsica, on “softening up” operations. On the way back the practice took place. Frank’s Spitfire and another one collided in mid-air, over the sea. The other pilot got away by parachute. The launch that rescued this pilot brought in Frank’s body. He is buried in a small military cemetery in a little village near Bastia, N. Corsica. That Frank was likely to count in the world is indicated by his record at Bishops: House Prefect, then School Prefect, Student Officer in the Cadet Corps, Senior Shooting Colours. Not least, he stood the test of his fag’s approval. He had a keen sense of duty and loyalty. His affection for Bishops was deep and he was a Life Member of the O.D. Union. Frank qualified in Rhodesia and came 3rd in the Wings Exam last December. After operational training in the M.E. he was posted to the Rhodesia Squadron of the R.A.F., based on Corsica, and had served there for several months as a Fighter Pilot. Our thoughts go out to his parents, Mr. and Mrs. H.M. Barbour, of Salisbury, and to David, his younger brother, who recently started training in Rhodesia as a Fighter Pilot, too.
- The Diocesan College Magazine, September 1944, p. 23

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