Sgt. James Dove, crew 63 (2 missions)

James was born on the 19th March 1918 to Charles and Kate Dove, in Colsterworth Lincolnshire, and one of five children; Ethel, James, Charles, Joan, and Morris (oldest to Youngest).

Sgt. Joan Dove, WRAF

In Britian during the early war years and prior to enlistment James worked as an engineer for Frodingham Ironstone Mining Company. His younger sister Joan served with the WRAF in North Luffingham Rutland, and brother Charles volunteered with the RAFVR; a rear-air gunner with 148 squadron based in the Mediterranean.

In 1943 James volunteered for the RAFVR working as a member of the ground crew servicing aircraft at Tolthorpe aerodrome, also tying the knot with Lily Scott in July 1943. It was during this time he also trained as a flight engineer in preparation to become a member of an aircrew.

Sgt. Charles Dove, 148 Squadron

Unfortunately on the 8th Sept. 1943 his brother Charles and the rest of the crew were killed during operations; a previously damaged undercarriage collapsed upon their landing at an airfield in Fayid Egypt. They were buried at Phaleron War Cemetery, Greece.

Left is Sgt. James Dove with Lily (bride) and Charles on right

Once James finished his training he was assigned to 434 squadron as a flight engineer. On the 20th of Feb. 1944 crew 63 "failed to return" from a raid to Leipzig Germany, all were killed.

Sadly a “return to sender” letter arrived back at Lily’s home, James never had the opportunity to find out he would be a father.

I would like to thank Linda Dove (Grandaughter of Sgt. Jim Dove) and her father for sharing thier photos and written material.