The Airmen's Stories - Sgt. B Pennycuick

Bruce Pennycuick was born on 18th July 1919 at 12 West Street, Penicuik, Midlothian.

He joined the RAFVR in April 1939 as an Airman u/t WOp/AG. Called up on 1st September 1939, Pennycuick remustered as an Airman u/t Observer.

Above: Pennycuick, standing far right in February 1940 at 3 EFTS Hamble, others unknown.

He completed his training and was posted to 236 Squadron at St. Eval on 25th September 1940.

Pennycuick flew six fighter patrols between then and 31st October. The Blenheim he was in on 7th November engaged two He115s, scoring hits on both before they vanished into cloud.

In early January 1941 Pennycuick was posted to 59 Squadron at Thorney Island, operating in Hudsons on anti-shipping duties. He was commissioned in May 1942. On the night of 25th/26th June the squadron took part in the third 1000-bomber raid, flying from North Coates and with Bremen as the target.

After a staff job at HQ 16 Group, Pennycuick was posted to 279 (ASR) Squadron at Thornaby-on-Tees, operating Warwicks which had airborne lifeboats attached. In 1944 he rejoined 236 Squadron, then equipped with Beauflghters.

Pennycuick's final posting was as Station Commander RAF Beccles, a satellite of RAF Langham. He was released in 1946 as a Squadron Leader.

Pennycuick died on 16th February 2006 in Taunton, Somerset.

Image courtesy of Malcolm Pennycuick.