The Airmen's Stories - F/Lt. A McL Lyall

Alastair Mclaren Lyall was born on 1st July 1916 and joined the RAF on a short service commission and began his initial training course on 12th October 1936.

Lyall was posted to 10 FTS Ternhill on 16th January 1937 and with his training completed joined 25 Squadron at Hawkinge on 7th August 1937.

He took part in an attack on the Luftwaffe seaplane base at Borkum on 28th November 1939. Twelve Blenheims took off from Bircham Newton, six from 25 Squadron and six from 601 Squadron. All aircraft returned safely to Debden. Three He115's were destroyed and another three damaged. It was the first fighter attack of the war on a German target.

As an Acting Flight Lieutenant Lyall served as ‘B’ Flight Commander from 1st February to 12th May 1940, when he relinquished the command and reverted to the rank of Flying Officer. He assumed command of ‘A’ Flight on 8th August, again as an Acting Flight Lieutenant.

He was posted away from 25 Squadron to No. 7 Radio Servicing Section Filton on 14th September 1940.

RSS units flew Tiger Moths and other light aircraft on prescribed courses so that the RDF chain could be calibrated.

His subsequent service is currently undocumented until Lyall was released from the RAF in January 1947.

He died on 12th January 1989.