Flt Lt Harry Richardson DFC, a distinguished World War Two RAF Bomber Command pilot, is set to be honoured at a special event celebrating his remarkable 108th birthday. The veteran, pictured above and below, stands as one of the oldest living survivors of the conflict, and the occasion promises to be a heartfelt tribute to his extraordinary life and service.
A Celebration of Service and Longevity
The festivities will take place at the RAF Association Club in Prestwick, South Ayrshire, where Harry now resides. He will be joined by his 82-year-old daughter Penny, along with distinguished guests, to enjoy an evening of 1930s music and dancing, evoking the era of his youth and wartime experiences.
Recognition from the International Bomber Command Centre
Representatives from the International Bomber Command Centre in Lincoln, including volunteer Alaistair Montgomery—who served in 44 Squadron during Operation Black Buck—will present Harry with a detailed record of his service history. This gesture aims to recognise his outstanding contributions to Bomber Command, the wider Royal Air Force, and commercial aviation.
The biography documents his operational sorties between May 1941 and January 1945, covering his time with 149 Squadron in Europe and 59 Squadron in South-East Asia. It also includes personal photos, such as images of Harry as a young boy, as a pilot, and with his two brothers, Ken and Stan, who served in the RAF and the Royal Navy.
Addressing Historical Oversights
ACM Sir Michael Graydon GCB CBE, Former Chief of the Air Staff and Chair of the International Bomber Command Centre, expressed his honour in celebrating Harry's birthday. He remarked, “Harry Richardson represents a body of people whose contribution to victory in World War Two was not recognised. The treatment of Bomber Command at the end of the war was shameful.”
He added, “It has been a privilege for us at the International Bomber Command Centre to help to rectify this failure and to have met such people as Harry. Happy birthday Harry, and thank you for all you did for the nation and for the freedom we enjoy today.”
An Inspiring Journey into Aviation
Harry, who will turn 108 on February 8, was inspired to become a pilot after watching Hawker Hurricanes take off and land at RAF Northolt during the summer of 1939. He soon completed his pilot training in Scotland and joined 149 Squadron at RAF Mildenhall.
His wartime service included participation in the first two 1,000-bomber raids, and he remarkably survived two operational tours. After completing 30 sorties in Europe, Harry took on an instructional role on the Avro Anson at RAF Lichfield before moving to the Far East, where he flew another 32 missions on the B24 Liberator. His longest mission lasted over 18 hours, setting a record for the longest flown wartime mission at the time.
Post-War Contributions and Accolades
After the war, Harry and his family relocated to Prestwick, where he joined the National Air Traffic Service as an air traffic controller. He rose through the ranks, playing a key role in planning air traffic services over the Atlantic.
His many accolades include the Distinguished Flying Cross for bravery and airmanship, as well as the prestigious Provost’s Medal, which recognises national or international achievements by individuals born in or residing in South Ayrshire. During last year's VE Day 80 celebrations, he was honoured at both local and national events, including the VE Day 80 concert at Horse Guards Parade in London, where he had the honour of sitting next to Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
Tributes from the RAF Family
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Harv Smyth, commented on Harry's distinguished career, saying, “Happy 108th birthday - what an amazing achievement. Thank you for your service in the RAF. Flying Wellingtons and Liberators in South-East Asia must have been the experience of a lifetime, perhaps only to be outdone by the fact that you managed to sit next to His Majesty the King during last year’s VE Day - right and proper too! From me and your RAF family, here’s wishing you a very happy birthday.”
