The Airmen's Stories - F/Lt. W S Bowyer

Walter Stafford Bowyer was born on 16th April 1914 in Durban, South Africa, the son of Capt. Alan Stafford Bowyer (1878-1960) and Margaret Christina Bowyer (nee Hughes 1877-1942).

He went to Durban High School.

Bowyer joined the RAF on a short service commission in March 1937 and carried out his flying training at 9 E&RFTS Ansty and 3 FTS South Cerney.

With his training completed, he joined 3 Squadron at Kenley on 27th November 1937.

He married Joan Ringwood on 12th August 1939 at St. Johns Meads, Eastbourne.

When 257 Squadron was reformed at Hendon on 17th May 1940, Bowyer joined it on the 19th, as Flight Commander. He flew one operational sortie before becoming non-effective sick with jaundice on 17th July.

After returning to the squadron from sick leave he went down with appendicitis and, after more sick leave, Bowyer was posted away to 2 AACU Gosport on 4th October 1940.

Bowyer was killed on 24th January 1942 as a Squadron Leader with 2 AACU. In Gladiator K7935 he collided with a balloon cable and crashed at Fort Grange, Gosport.

He is buried in Ocklynge Cemetery, Eastbourne, Sussex.

Below: he is also commemorated at Durban (Stellawood) Cemetery.