The Shy Assassin

One of the few RAF aircrew to play a central part in two of the Second World War’s most momentous events, the Battle of Britain and D-Day, Cyril ‘Frank’ Babbage was a survivor. He wasn’t just an immensely skilled pilot; he was also blessed with extraordinary good fortune.

Babbage’s image shot to national prominence in late-August 1940, briefly becoming the face of ‘The Few’. Photographs appeared in the press of him stepping out of a rowing boat on Bognor beach. There he was met by a small crowd who’d seen him rescued by fishermen after bailing out. He’d been shot down by a German fighter, but only after disposing of another one first. Babbage’s fascinating wartime experiences are complimented brilliantly by the stories of those who crossed his path, famous names like Amy Johnson and Douglas Bader as well as countless other unsung heroes. Many of the latter were youngsters he served with all too briefly.

Between his contrasting operational tours Babbage spent time as a flying instructor, insulated to a degree against the ravages of war. Wing Commander C. F. Babbage DFM, AE retired in the summer of 1964. Like so many of his ilk, he owed his final years of peacetime service to the sacrifices of others—others like those brave men with whom he flew, but who enjoyed less than their own share of good luck.