231805 Sgt. Ronald George Frederick Prowse Royal Air Force 158 Squadron from:Plymouth, Devon My Dad told me about my grandfather and his adventures. I called him Grandad George even though his name was Ron, I only ever heard my Grandmother call him this.
George was a plumber before the War. He was born in 1922. I believe his occupation was a reserved occupation and he wasn't required to enlist.
However, while working at Princetown Home of Dartmoor Prison, George received a few white feathers and subsequently asked his employer for permission to enlist.
Eventually, in 1943 he joined the RAF as part of 158 Squadron. Initially, George was a radio controller but couldn't get on with morse code so volunteered to be a rear gunner on a Halifax. Unbeknownst at the time, George suffered sinus problems so spent most of his flight time, with misted up flight goggles and icicles hanging from his eyes.
Eventually he was grounded on medical advice.
George then joined the Navy as a coppersmith with the rank of Chief Petty Officer onboard the HMS Sirius (I think). Upon his return to shore and the end of his naval career, George became a member of the Home Guard.
He is the only man I have come across to have been part of all 3 services
He married my grandmother, Alma Wilkins, who was also involved in the war effort.
George was an amazing man and I am very proud to have called him Grandad.
Sadly, he passed away in 2003 at the age of 81.
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