602 Squadron Museum Association Events and News

Gerry Traynor hands over a collage relating to Wg.Cdr. Donald Jack to his niece Shirly Jack

"Donald Jack joined 602 Squadron in 1936. He was therefore an experienced pilot at the outbreak of War. He was with 602 at Drem and subsequently at Westhampnett in the Battle of Britain. He is credited with destroying a Bf110 and Me 109. When 602 Squadron returned to Scotland, Donald was posted to RAF Turnhouse to form and command 123 Squadron. This Squadron was engaged in convoy duty and training new pilots in combat conditions. Donald took the Squadron to the Middle East where he was attached to 274 Squadron. When 123 Squadron merged with and became the new 80 Squadron in Palestine Donald was appointed to command. He was promoted to Squadron Leader and led 243 Wing. Later in the Middle East he was appointed SASO at HQ in Haifa before becoming Sector Commander at Port Said. On his return to U.K. He was appointed Station Commander at RAF High Ercoll.

On the cessation of hostilities He volunteered to drop three ranks to become Squadron Adjutant at Abbotsinch with 602 Squadron. He carried out this duty until taking off his uniform for the last time in 1948.

Those who served with him and under him held him in high regard and could not understand why he was not decorated as a Wing Commander. Perhaps he was too far from the seat of power.

The collage shows the badges of the Squadrons Donald served with or commanded prior to his elevation to Staff Appointments. On the formation of The Museum Association Donald renewed his connection with 602 Squadron where he is still missed and is spoken about often."