The Airmen's Stories - F/O D A Willans

Derek Alan Willans joined the RAF on a short service commission in June 1938. Willans was posted to 12 Group Pool, Aston Down for further training on 28th January 1940 and after converting to Blenheims joined 23 Squadron at Wittering on 6th April.

He served with this squadron throughout the Battle.

He was awarded the DFC (gazetted 18th February 1941), the citation stating that one night in January 1941 he displayed great courage in attacking an enemy aircraft over the aerodrome at Poix, continuing his attack down to 500 feet, although aware of the heavy anti-aircraft defences.

Willans was killed on 28th May 1941, as a Flying Officer with 23. He was flying Havoc BB893 when it spun in during a low-level practice dogfight near RAF Manston.

He is buried in St Mary's churchyard, Clymping, Sussex.