Bernard James Shelton
Mechanic
- Family History
- Military history
- Extra information
- Photographs
Son of Alfred and Sarah Ann Shelton, of 264 Eakring Road, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
Bernard was baptised at Skeby on 12th march 1922 the family where living on Morley Street, Stanton Hill.
He had 2 siblings, Frank born in 1918 but who died in 1932 of meningitis and Celia born in 1924.
In 1939 Alfred, Sarah Ann and Celia where living at 264 Eakring Road.
IBCC: Blenheim IV serial No P2171
Wireless operator/Air Gunner
Took off from LG 68 (Waterloo) Eygpt foe a bombing raid over Marua Airfield. Shot down by Italian airforce on return trip. Crashed into the sea off Tobruk.
113 squadron.com
Formed on 18th May 1937 as a day bomber unit. In April 1938 they were based in the Middle East.
Celia's daughter Alison Merrick contributed to Bernard's entry in the personnel section giving background and details of early life and time in the RAF.
Key Points:
Joined RAF aged 17 after working as a mechamic.
Went to the Middle East in March 1940 by sea.
Promoted to Sargeant on 20th September.
3/10/1040 Sarah Ann and Celia (aged 15) where decorating when the telegram arrived
"Regret to inform you your son 642942 Sargeant Shelton is reported missing 1/10"
Six weeks later they received a letter from his base informing them the plane had hit the sea not known if the crew had survived. It was not until March 1941 that official notification was received. Sarah Ann wrote to the families of the other 2 crew members to offer her sympathies.
Alison found the telegram and letters in a box the day before Celia's funeral in 1995. The box also contained a lock of Frank's baby hair..
Unknown
No photos