The Airmen's Stories - P/O R I Chaffe

Ronald Ivor Chaffe, from Bristol, was born on 11th May 1914, the son of John Arthur Chaffe (1868-1919) and Florence Mabel Chaffe (nee Bryant 1884-1953). His father was a Licensed victualler.

RI Chaffe attended Cotham School. After leaving he was employed by John Lampier, Insurance Brokers in Bristol.

He played for Bristol Rugby team.

He married Betty Joan Dingle in July 1937 but she subsequently fell ill and died in September 1938.

Chaffe joined the RAFVR in January 1939 as an Airman u/t Pilot. He was called up on 1st September, finished his flying training and joined 245 Squadron at Drem in May 1940.

He was posted to 43 Squadron on 18th September but returned to 245 Squadron at Aldergrove in December 1940.

In late 1941 Chaffe was in Malta, serving with 1435 Flight. He took command of 185 Squadron at Hal Far in February 1942 but was killed when his Hurricane, Z3452, was shot down off Delimara Point on the 22nd.

Chaffe was 27 and is commemorated on the Malta Memorial.