The Auxiliary Air Force’s 610 Squadron had a key role during Dunkirk and the Battle of Britain. David J Bailey highlights the vital part played by 610’s illustrious leading pilot, John Ellis, that crucial summer
Formed at Hooton Park, in the Wirral, on February 10, 1936, No.610 (County of Chester) Auxiliary Air Force Squadron was originally a light bomber unit flying the two-seat Hawker Hart. Its first commanding officer was Sqn Ldr I R Parker, with Flt Lt J A C Stratton as adjutant. The unit adopted the Hawker Hind in May 1938, before a seismic shift on January 19 the following year when 610 transferred to Fighter Command and began operating Hurricanes.
On September 15, 1939, Flying Officer John Ellis, a 22-year-old regular RAF officer, was posted to 610. Born on February 28, 1917, in Deal, Kent, and educated at Sutton Valance School, Ellis joined the force in March 1936. After training, he was posted to 66 Squadron, before moving to 213 in March 1937.
