Australians in the Battle of Britain. 11 August 1940

Shortly after 10.00 a.m. on 11 August 1940 Stuart Walch and his squadron comrades rushed to their Hurricanes. They had been called to patrol Portland. For once, it was a far from uneventful morning. They encountered an enemy force of about 150+ aircraft. Stuart was leading and was also Blue Leader. This was his 55th sortie since 238 Squadron was declared operational.

In the ensuing battle, Blue Section was caught between two waves of enemy aircraft. Stuart did not baulk at the overwhelming numbers but led his flight into the onslaught. He battled bravely but he and his section plummeted into the water five or so miles south of Swanage.

Flight Lieutenant Stuart Crosby Walch was only 23. He was the third Australian entitled to the Battle of Britain clasp to die. He was one of the first Australians to score a victory against the enemy during the Battle of Britain and accounted for two destroyed enemy aircraft, two shared destroyed, one unconfirmed shared destroyed and one damaged. He was known as the father of his squadron and would shepherd young pilots so they could make their first ‘kills’ safely. 238 Squadron lost ‘an officer of very great promise. He was dauntless in the face of danger, careless of his own personal safety and comfort, thoughtful for all who came in contact with him’.

Vale Stuart Walch who lived up to his school motto: ‘Vivit Post Funera Virtus.’