Introduction

As someone with a passing interest in aviation I suppose it would only be natural for me to gravitate to research the historical aspects of this fascinating subject. My primary aviation interest was modern military fighters but this changed when I read David J Smith's 'Action Stations' book covering RAF stations in north-west England. I was surprised to discover that within a very few miles of my home was such a station, RAF Cranage. Having discovered the existence of the base I determined to find out more about those who had served at the station, their activities and history. As I progressed I amassed a huge amount of information from a wide range of books and other research. I hoped to gather sufficient information to produce a small book for local publication or, at the very least, a number of articles for the aviation press. Much of what I discovered was interesting but the area that fascinated me most was that of 96 Squadron that formed at Cranage on December 18th 1940 in the night fighter role. I gathered more information on the activities of the squadron than any other unit. However, their tenure at Cranage was short, a little over ten months and the bulk of their activities were crammed into the first six months or so of their existence. Even so, it made fascinating reading. Through one of my many appeals for information Dave Sanderson, editor of the 96 Squadron Association newsletter contacted me. As a member of the squadron in the 1950's he was interested to learn more about the squadron's earlier work and some of those who had served King and country during World War Two. He asked me if I would produce something for the Association and I readily agreed, not realising how this project would grow. From those humble beginnings of what would have been a short article, the project has grown into this booklet…and it covers only those first few fledgling months when the squadron won its wings in the night skies over England. Whether I am able to continue my research into 96's history I don't know. I hope so, for later days on Beaufighter and Mosquito's in the night fighter role are exciting and interesting from what little I have discovered. I can only apologise that my research thus far covers only a tiny amount of 96's heritage. I am always keen to know more of the squadron and those of you with memories of the squadron are urged to share them before they are lost once and for all. My primary focus is still Cranage but I promise more for future days. I have timed the publication of this booklet to coincide with the 60th anniversary of the formation of the Squadron and hope that it meets with the reader's approval as a fitting testament and memorial to those early pioneers of 96 Squadron, Royal Air Force.

Acknowledgements

In preparing any historical document, especially when one is a novice in such research as necessary for accuracy of fact, help has to be sought from a variety of sources. Many people have assisted me in my research into RAF Cranage and 96 Squadron. It is only right that I acknowledge that help. David J Smith was instrumental in getting me started through a variety of his published works. His kindness in allowing me access to his own research and to use photographs from his collection was above and beyond anything I had anticipated. Thank you. Once I had exhausted his work I discovered a fellow researcher in Martin Smith (no relation!) of Lichfield; his initial help pointed in directions I would never have thought. Not only that, he allowed me access to his extensive library and made copious notes for me. Richard Beeson from Washington State, USA, served at Cranage in the 1950's with the US Air Force. He has provided much in the way of information during Cranage's later days and carried out extensive searches on my behalf both during that period and earlier. Mike Lewis, editor of 'Swift', the magazine for the north-west England vintage aviation enthusiast, has also been instrumental in obtaining data and encouraging my work by publishing a joint article about Cranage by David Smith, Hugh Budgen and myself. His advice on the early draft of this work is very much appreciated. Wing Commander Gerry Roberts, Stanley Coates, Stanley Sim and a number of other ex-servicemen who have chosen to remain anonymous have provided reminiscences and photographs. Their help, no matter how small, is much appreciated. Andy Beckett is a good friend and offered help and encouragement, proof-read early drafts and offered advice, loaned books and provided tea and sympathy when needed. Ray Miller, another aviation friend from California also undertook proof-reading duties. Thank you both. Dave Sanderson, newsletter editor of the 96 Squadron Association, commissioned this work. He, too, has proof-read and promised further help from members of the Association. Cheers, Dave! Lastly and by no means least, my wife Lynn and son Niki who have had to put up with my incessant hogging of our computer and tapping at the keyboard late at night (when inspiration usually occurs!) and for their encouragement, suggestions and all round support. Any errors and omissions are mine. Tony Harratt Staffordshire, England November 2000

Dedication

This website is dedicated to all the officers and men of 96 Squadron, Royal Air Force, particularly those who gave their lives in the service of their country either in combat or otherwise, in time of peace or time of war. All will be remembered. 'Never was so much owed by so many to so few' – Sir Winston Churchill

Copyright © 2000-2001   Tony Harratt
No unauthorized reproduction permitted.

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