Da COSTA – Huntley
1259994 – Flight Lieutenant
Correction: DA COSTA – Huntley, Service no. on enlistment: 1259994. After commission from Flt Sgt to Pilot Officer (on 29 November 1943) service no. became 182287
[Source: CG/AD]
Joined RAF in 1939
First tour was in Europe
Fought in the Battle of Britain
His squadron was deployed to the sinking of the Bismark. However arrived to see it sinking
He was a rear gunner on bomber.
aircraft.
Second tour was the Middle East.
Bombed Rommel
Third Tour
Far East
Stationed in India
Bombed Burma Rangoon etc
He was involved in three plane crashes
Shot down 3 planes
[Source: Christopher Da Costa]
My late father, F/L W J ‘Jack’ Gawne flew in Bomber Command with Huntley Da Costa in WW2. Dad took him home to the Isle of Man on leave at least once during the war and I also believe they were in an aircraft crash together.
July 30th, 2014 at 9:17 pmAny info gratefully received.
I remember Huntley in Kingston long ago, a reserved , good- looking gentleman, much senior to me so I did not know him well. But I’ll ask around, Chris ,and see if I can get some news for you.
August 19th, 2014 at 9:19 amBilly
Hi Chris, was just browsing the web and found this, what a surprise. Huntley was my father. He passed away in 2003 at the age of 86. I have his medals, mention in despatches and a few pics.
December 7th, 2014 at 2:25 ami will look out for your reply.
Chris
Very pleased to hear that my inquiry was not in vain. I look forward very much to receiving any more information you have on my father’s time with yours.
January 6th, 2015 at 12:10 pmAnd thank you Billy for helping as well.
Chris Gawne