The Airmen's Stories - Sub/Lt. (FAA) R M S Martin

Richard Maurice Scott Martin joined the Fleet Air Arm in 1939. He was recorded as flying Blackburn Skuas with 801 Squadron in early 1940 and on 31st May a Skua flown by Mid RMS Martin and NA R Hedger from Detling took part in combat with Me109's over Dunkirk, both crew were wounded.

By July 1940 he was with 808 Squadron at Wick, flying Fulmars in dockyard defence. 808 embarked on HMS Ark Royal on 22nd October 1940.

At around midday on 27th November 1940 the British and Italian fleets clashed in what was later called the Battle of Cape Spartivento. Ten SM79's arrived over Force “H” and seven Fulmars of 808 Squadron, which were airborne, intercepted at 14:30 claiming two or three victories without being able to stop them. The Fulmars were in turn bounced by the CR42 escort.

Fulmar N1941 (piloted by Martin and with L/A A L M Noble as crewman) was shot down into the sea with the loss of the crew.

Martin is commemorated on the FAA Memorial, Lee-on-Solent.