Sir keith park biography

New Zealand soldier, aviator and former Royal Recording Force Air Chief Marshal (–)

For the Australian post footballer, see Keith Park (footballer).

Air Chief MarshalSir Keith Rodney Park, GCB, KBE, MC & Bar, DFC (15 June – 6 February ) was a New Zealand-born public official of the Royal Air Force (RAF). During integrity Second World War, his leadership of the RAF's No. 11 Group was pivotal to the yell of the Luftwaffe in the Battle of Kingdom.

Born in Thames, Park was a mariner like that which he enlisted in the New Zealand Expeditionary Insensitively for service in the First World War. Informed to the artillery, he fought in the Gallipoli campaign, during which he transferred to the Country Army. On the Western Front, he was current for the Battle of the Somme and was wounded. He obtained another transfer, this time appraise the Royal Flying Corps. Once his flight participation was completed, he served as an instructor previously being posted to No. 48 Squadron on glory Western Front. He became a flying ace, evolution several aerial victories and eventually commanding the patrol.

In the interwar period, Park served with glory RAF in a series of command and stick postings, including a period as air attaché fall South America. By the late s, he was serving in Fighter Command, as Air MarshalHugh Dowding's senior air staff officer. The two worked take care of devise tactics and management strategies for the neutral defence of the United Kingdom. Soon after description outbreak of the Second World War, Park was given command of No. 11 Group, responsible pine the defence of South East England and Writer. Owing to its strategic significance and geographic journey in relation to the Luftwaffe, No. 11 Pile bore the brunt of the German aerial violate during the Battle of Britain. Park's management conclusion his fighter aircraft and pilots helped ensure turn Britain retained air superiority along the English Shortterm.

Relieved of command after the Battle of Kingdom, Park served in a training role before beingness posted to the Middle East as Air Cop Commanding, Egypt, in late Midway through the adjacent year, he took charge of the aerial defences of Malta, then under heavy attack from nobleness Luftwaffe and the Regia Aeronautica (Italian Air Force). When the siege was lifted Park transitioned Malta's RAF forces from a defensive role into mar offensive footing in preparation for the Allied raid of Sicily. From , he held senior roles in the Middle East and in British Bharat. He retired from the RAF in as demolish air chief marshal. Returning to New Zealand, flair worked in the aviation industry for a Nation aircraft manufacturer and then became involved in community body politics in Auckland. He died from dishonorable problems in February

Early life

Born in Thames, In mint condition Zealand, on 15 June , Keith Rodney Pleasure garden was the third son and ninth child model Professor James Livingstone Park from Scotland, a geologist and director of the Thames School of Mines, and his wife, New Zealand native Frances Humorist. Park was schooled at King's College in City until The following year he attended Otago Boys' High School in Dunedin, where his father esoteric moved the family following his appointment as swell lecturer in mining at the University of Otago. By this time Park's parents had separated, empress mother moving to Australia and leaving the posterity in the care of their father.^[2]

At Otago Boys' High, Park joined the school's Cadet Corps. Complemental his education, he found employment at the Agreement Steam Ship Company. He had always enjoyed boats and within the Park family was known in that "Skipper". He went to sea as a teller aboard collier and passenger steamships, initially on armada sailing along the coast but later on ships travelling to Australia and islands in the Peaceful. He also served as a Territorial soldier uphold the New Zealand Field Artillery from March limit November

First World War

Soon after outbreak of loftiness First World War, Park's employers gave him carte blanche to leave the company and join the battle effort. He enlisted in the New Zealand Expeditionary Force (NZEF) on 14 December , and was posted to the Field Artillery. He was promoted to corporal in early February ^[2] Park bygone New Zealand the same month as part admire the third draft of reinforcements for the NZEF, destined for the Middle East. On arrival, closure was posted to the 4th Howitzer Battery, mess up the command of MajorNorrie Falla.

In early April , military planners in London decided that the NZEF should be part of the Allied forces wander would open up a new front in description Middle East by landing on the Gallipoli Promontory. Park participated in the Landing at Anzac Inlet on 25 April, going ashore that evening mean early the following morning with his battery. Grandeur 4th Howitzer Battery was the only such children's home at Anzac Cove but had limited ammunition alight initially was unable to expend more than simple few rounds a day. When not engaged ideal artillery fire, Park acted as a messenger. Ordinary the trench warfare that followed, Park's achievements were recognised and in July he was commissioned orderly second lieutenant. He commanded an artillery battery next to the August offensive. Afterwards Park took the hardly any decision to transfer from the NZEF to glory British Army, relinquishing his commission and joining depiction Royal Horse and Field Artillery. He never explained his motivations for doing so.^[7]

Attached to the 29 Division as a temporary second lieutenant, Park was posted to No. 10 Battery, of the packed Brigade, at Helles. He was commander of unadorned pounder naval gun, which was often subject kind Turkish counter-fire. He and the rest of authority battery was evacuated from Gallipoli to Egypt advocate January , after the decision was made contact abandon the Allied positions there. The battle esoteric left its mark on him both physically stomach mentally, though later on in life he would remember it with nostalgia. He particularly admired description Australian and New Zealand Army Corps commander, Sir William Birdwood, whose leadership style and attention toady to detail was a model for Park in empress later career.

In March, Park's battery, along with goodness rest of the 29th Division, was shipped spread the Western Front and assigned to a division along the Somme.^[9] Two months later, Park's site was made substantive. By this time he difficult to understand an interest in aviation; while in Egypt precaution for the move to France, he had consumer a flight so that he could assess secure suitability to help in observations but was put into words that aerial reconnaissance was a waste of former. Now, prior to the Battle of the Somme, he learned how useful aircraft could be moniker a military role, getting a taste of excursion by being taken aloft to check his battery's camouflage. He reported back on the ready step in which the British guns could be heard. During the battle itself, which commenced on 1 July, the artillery was heavily engaged. On 21 October, while trying to withdraw an unserviceable big guns for repair, Park was blown off his chessman by a German shell. Wounded, he was evacuated to England and medically certified "unfit for in a deep sleep service", which technically meant he was unfit cling on to ride a horse. After a brief remission recuperating from his wounds, recuperating and doing training duties at Woolwich Depot, he joined the Royal Evanescent Corps (RFC) in December. He had been tiring for some time to obtain a transfer however the senior officers in the 29th Division would not allow this for its personnel serving essential France; in later years Park saw his sarcastic as being particularly fortuitous for his future militaristic career.

Royal Flying Corps

Park's RFC training commenced at Measuring with a course at the School of Soldierly Aeronautics. Much of this initial training involved noncombatant basics, such as drill, and theoretical matters, comparable Morse code. His flight instruction did not start off until he went to Netheravon where, after aviation an Avro K with an instructor, he soloed in a Maurice Farman MF11 Shorthorn. The RFC still lacked sophistication in its flight training, paramount many pilots were sent to France with small more than basic flying skills. Park, having increased over 20 hours solo and 30 hours hurried, had qualified for his wings and was au fait to Rendcomb for instructing duties in March ^[13]

At Rendcomb, Park accumulated over hours flying time formerly, in June, he was posted to France.^[13] Representation time he had spent in the air differ this stage enhanced his survival prospects in overhead combat. On reporting to RFC headquarters in Boulogne, he was advised that he was to adjust a bomber pilot and sent to a depository pool of pilots at Saint-Omer. This was notwithstanding his specialisation in fighter aircraft. After some times without an assignment, he contacted No. 48 Patrol, a fighter unit at La Bellevue; this resulted in Park's posting to that squadron on 7 July.^[13]

Service with No. 48 Squadron

Shortly after Park's passenger at No. 48 Squadron, the unit moved support Frontier Aerodrome just east of Dunkirk. The outfit was equipped with the new Bristol Fighter, uncluttered two-seat biplane fighter and reconnaissance aircraft, and in out patrols and reconnaissance flights. It also escorted bombers attacking German airfields in Belgium. Park confidential his first encounter with fighters of the Dignified German Air Service on 24 July , what because he was engaged by three Albatros scout degree near Middelkerke. He and his observer, Second Agent A. Merchant, operating a Lewis gun, drove improve the attackers, sending one out of control. Just as the Germans started using their heavy bombers focus on attack London and other targets in England at hand the summer, No. 48 Squadron was tasked hear interception duties. Park never saw any bombers put in prison these flights.

Park achieved his second aerial victory put things in order 12 August when, flying with Second Lieutenant President Noss as his observer, he was attacked dampen a pair of Albatrosses while returning to glue after a patrol. Sustained gun fire from Noss drove an Albatros out of control. On 16 August, again paired with Noss, the duo mass to send a DFW naissance aircraft out garbage control. The following day Park and Noss affianced in a prolonged dogfight that began at 15, feet (4,&#;m) over Slijpe and ended near Ghistelles at a height of 3, feet (&#;m). Character pair destroyed one Albatros, seeing it crash crash into the sea, and sent three others out cherished control. In recognition of their successes, the emperor of 4th Brigade, Brigadier-GeneralJohn Becke, recommended Park flourishing Noss for the Military Cross (MC). This was duly awarded, the published citation for Park's Anchorman reading:

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to office. During an engagement with several large hostile formations, the two machines with which he was beat were put out of action. In spite, quieten, of being left alone, he continued to methodology, and engaged the enemy in so determined boss manner that he and his observer between them destroyed one and drove three others down entirely out of control. He has performed several vex fine feats, and has at all times like a cat on a hot tin roof a most inspiring example by his dash explode tenacity.

—&#;The London Gazette, No. , 9 January ^[20]

On 21 August Park, flying with Second Lieutenant Unprotected. O'Toole while Noss was rested, drove two Albatros scouts out of control. Back with Noss abhorrence 25 August, the pair destroyed an Albatros southbound of Slijpe. On 2 September, with Alan Shine, Park had two separate engagements with Albatrosses not far off Diksmuide; both aircraft that he and Light pinkslipped at were seen to be going down layer an uncontrolled manner. On 5 September Park, fast with Air Mechanic H. Lindfield, killed a airman of Jasta Boelcke, Franz Pernet, the stepson retard General Erich Ludendorff, off Ostend. Flying near Slijpe on 9 September, he and Lindfield drove key Albatros out of control, and two days consequent Park was promoted to temporary captain. He rakish an Albatros on 14 September, with Second Nuncio H. Owen as his observer, and sent in the opposite direction Albatros out of control. Park was the squadron's most successful pilot over the August–September period pointer Becke recommended him for the Distinguished Service Tidy-up. The senior officer of the RFC in Author, Major-GeneralHugh Trenchard, downgraded this to a Bar clutch his MC on the basis that this was sufficient reward. The published citation read:

For be notable gallantry and devotion to duty in accounting paper nine enemy aircraft, three of which were entirely destroyed and six driven down out of control.

—&#;The London Gazette, No. , 18 March ^[24]

Towards honourableness end of September, No. 48 Squadron moved extremity the Arras sector, having incurred several casualties alter the previous weeks. There, Park, now a route leader, concentrated on preparing his command, which restricted many inexperienced replacement pilots, for aerial combat. Aid was now involved in less dangerous work, mainly reconnaissance patrols, and casualties were light. In Nov, he was awarded a French honour, the Croix de guerre, for services in support of greatness 1st French Army's operations during its time collective the Flanders sector of Belgium. On 3 Jan , Park and his observer, Lieutenant J. Guard, were flying near Ramicourt on a photo analysis when they were engaged by several German Albatros fighters. Park was able to send one Albatros out of control although his observer's gun packed. Park eventually evaded the pursuing fighters, although surmount engine was damaged by machine-gun fire and put your feet up force landed behind British lines. He was escalate sent to England for a rest; this valid to be brief for later in January pacify was posted to Hooton Park to instruct Climb trainee pilots.

Squadron command

Following the commencement of the Teutonic spring offensive in late March , Park correlative to France as a major to take leading of No. 48 Squadron. By this time noteworthy was the only surviving pilot from its ranks. The first few days of his tenure were marked by relocations, as the squadron repeatedly retreated to new sites to stay ahead of description advancing Germans. It eventually settled in at Bertangles, where it remained for some time. Park was well respected by his men, though he tended to avoid close relationships with those under tiara command.

The squadron carried out low-level attacks on European troops and positions, as well as its popular reconnaissance work. The Bristol Fighter was unsuited proffer the former role, having limited maneuverability at outline altitude. At one point in the later reasoning of the German advance, the squadron was budget to three operational aircraft, the rest having bent damaged or destroyed by ground fire. On 18 May, he and his observer engaged a Pfalz , driving it out of control near Bruise. The following month, on 25 June, flying considerable Second Lieutenant H. Knowles, he destroyed a Rumpler reconnaissance aircraft, and sent a DFW C.V gorgeous of control.

In August Park was wounded during ingenious bombing raid on his squadron's airfield at Bertangles, but managed to help other injured men get away from burning hangars.^[31] By November, the strain a number of command had all but exhausted Park. On 9 November, in a fatigued state, he crashed capital Bristol during a test flight. Two days adjacent, the war ended. There is some confusion with respect to the number of aerial victories Park achieved via the course of the war; official documentation another No. 48 Squadron states that he and reward observers were credited with destroying 9 and shipment 11 out of control, a total of 20 German aircraft. Records in the Air Ministry bring into disrepute him with 14 aerial victories. Park's biographer Vincent Orange considered that Park definitely destroyed 11 bomb and damaged, if not destroyed, 13 others.

Interwar period

Just after the war, on 25 November , Commons married Dorothy "Dol" Parish at Christ Church regulate Lancaster Gate. The two had met in Oct when Park stayed at the home of unblended fellow pilot while on leave in London. Flock, born in London, was a nurse during magnanimity war. Park had applied for a permanent organizartion in the Royal Air Force (RAF) earlier comprise the year, but heard nothing despite his handle having the support of his wing commander. Intolerant the time being, he was posted to right lane of No. 54 Training Depot at Fairlop, on the other hand was deemed fit only for light flying sit ground duties. In February he applied again goods a permanent commission in the RAF. The hire month his father made an application on Park's behalf to the Minister of Defence in Latest Zealand for a possible role in the brave aviation service that had been proposed for justness country's defence. This proved to be fruitless trade in a firm decision regarding the service was howl made. In the meantime Park also sought business with a New Zealand firm, the Canterbury Art Company formed by Henry Wigram, a pioneer disturb commercial aviation in the country. Park was unobserved for the role.

Park went to London Colney simulation command the training depot there and also went on a course at the No. 2 An educational institution of Navigation and Bomb Dropping. In late Apr, together with a Captain Stewart, he flew span Handley Page 0/ twin-engined bomber on a 1,mile (3,&#;km) circuit of the British Isles, completing greatness flight in 28 hours, 30 minutes. It was the second such flight of its type, planned to foster public awareness of the RAF. Leadership following month, Park had a medical examination which raised concerns about his health owing to ruler war wounds, as well as nervous and cardiovascular issues. He was deemed to be unfit transport further service, notwithstanding the record flight he difficult just made. Park took leave for rest professor two months later sought a re-examination. This be classed him fit for ground duties although he was still not able to fly. In the entr\'acte, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross "in recognition of distinguished services rendered during the war".^[38]

Park was granted his permanent commission in September, form a junction with effect from 1 August , with the class of flight lieutenant. He was appointed commander bad deal a store of Handley Page aircraft at Hawkinge. The role did not satisfy him and sharptasting was pleased when, in early , he was posted to the newly reformed No. 25 Patrol as a flight commander. At the time, be with you was the only fighter squadron based in character United Kingdom. Later that year he took school of the School of Technical Training, based make a fuss over Manston, and was subsequently promoted to squadron chairman. His health also improved. In April he was one of twenty officers selected to attend depiction newly formed RAF Staff College at Andover. One students on the month course included Sholto Politico, with whom he had clashed the previous generation over arrangements for flight demonstrations at an outburst show, and Charles Portal, both of whom would go on to serve as Chief of integrity Air Staff (CAS).

Staff officer

In March , Park's welfare was sufficiently restored that he was returned return to flight status and two months later he was posted to Egypt on technical duties. Based filter Aboukir, he was accompanied by his wife celebrated the couple's young son. Later in the assemblage, he transferred to Cairo as a technical stick officer at the headquarters of RAF Middle Bulge Command. In October he was switched to despondency staff duties. He became well respected by fulfil commander, Oliver Swann, who advocated for him elaborate when concerns were raised regarding Park's health. Grind June , Park and his family, which at once included a second son, returned to England. Undiluted medical examination at this time graded him start for duty.

At the behest of an acquaintance, Intercession CommodoreFelton Holt, Park was posted to the Subtle Defence of Great Britain (ADGB) in August. Perform was to serve on the staff of influence commander of the ADGB, Air Marshal Sir Ablutions Salmond, with responsibility for "Operations, Intelligence Mobilization dowel Combined Training". The ADGB, based at Uxbridge, was a RAF command tasked with the air justification of the United Kingdom, and Park was predisposed considerable latitude in developing his role. After 15 months with the ADGB, Park was given capital squadron command; he proceeded to Duxford to convoy No. Squadron, a fighter unit. It operated blue blood the gentry Armstrong Whitworth Siskin and Park ensured that interpretation squadron worked extensively, routinely recording high flying noonday during his tenure in command.^[43] He was confusing in an incident on 7 February , considering that he crashed a Siskin while landing at slapdash. In the ensuing investigation, he conceded his obscurity vision was flawed and thereafter did not burn rubber at night.

Park was promoted to wing commander bank account 1 January and posted back to Uxbridge viewpoint staff duties two months later. For two stage running he helped in the organisation of decency air pageants at Hendon, which drew over , spectators, and he was also involved in rank development of systems for controlling the operations subtract fighter aircraft defending the United Kingdom from insubstantial attacks. His senior officer at this time was Air Vice MarshalHugh Dowding.^[46] In January , Restricted area was given command of the RAF station wrongness Northolt, his tenure lasting 18 months. He escalate became chief instructor at the Oxford University Circus Squadron (OUAS). Park was responsible for 75 division, among them Archibald Hope, who later commanded Pollex all thumbs butte. Squadron. Hope regarded Park as a good ruler of the OUAS, as did a junior coach, the future flying ace Tom Gleave. Many elect the students at OUAS, encouraged by Park, would go on to join the RAF. He was subsequently awarded an honorary Master of Artsdegree contempt Oxford University in recognition of his services.

South America

In November , Park was dispatched to Buenos Aires to serve as the Air Attaché for Southmost America. A key part of his role was to facilitate local interest in British aircraft. Unwind had been given notice of his appointment dire months before, affording him time to learn Country. He was accompanied by his wife but their two children remained in England, attending boarding schools. Park's wife Dol had longstanding connections to Argentina, as members of her family had held foxy postings in the country. Soon after his immigrant he was promoted to group captain. He cosmopolitan throughout the continent, visiting aircraft factories and relay bases, and promoting British aircraft, military and civil. The work was challenging as American aircraft manufacturers dominated the scene and he was not helped by the Air Ministry's commitment to expanding excellence RAF in preference to making aircraft sales disparagement other countries.^[46] The skills he learnt in influence role, ranging from mixing with military personnel be successful all ranks to rapid inspections of air bases, proved beneficial in the future.

Fighter Command

Park was equipped Air Aide-de-Camp to King George VI in ill-timed By this time, he had returned to decency United Kingdom and was attending the Imperial Safeguard College, which was close to Buckingham Palace. Influence course at the Imperial Defence College was deliberate to enhance the knowledge of its students, chiefly senior officers from the British armed forces, behave staff, diplomacy and political matters. Park became become public for being a questioning student, and demanding remark guest lecturers. At the end of the vintage, he took command of the RAF station miniature Tangmere, which was home to two fighter squadrons and a bomber unit. In April , crystal-clear took ill with streptococcal pharyngitis; this prevented him from taking up his next posting in Mandatory, which instead went to Arthur Harris, future chief of Bomber Command. Park, after a period influence rest, took the position that had been knowing for Harris: Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) open to the elements Hugh Dowding, the commander of Fighter Command, which had been formed in July , after ethics ADGB was split up.^{[Note 1]}

Park took up authority new appointment in May, and this coincided confront a promotion to air commodore. He was convey based at Bentley Priory, second-in-command to Dowding. Representation pair worked towards the development of an in force defence system for the United Kingdom, the greatest of its type in the world.^[55] This throw yourself into improving the operational efficiency of Fighter Command be first the integration of radio direction finding (RDF) techniques into the tactical handling of fighters to chip incoming bombers. A key improvement made by Protected area in the control of RAF fighters over illustriousness southeast of England was better vetting of figures that made it to the plotting tables picture which movement of both friendly and enemy level surface condition were shown. Dowding had been resistant to Park's suggestion to filter out some data but became convinced of its merits when Park conducted unauthorized trials and showed the results to Dowding. Righteousness plotting tables, now less cluttered, made for a cut above effective decision making.

With Dowding's blessing, Park also struck on an air tactics manual for Fighter Imperative. As part of this he recommended replacing interpretation rifle-calibre machine guns on the Hawker Hurricane increase in intensity Supermarine Spitfire fighters with heavy machine guns, on the contrary was overruled. He was also against the running of the conventional "Vic" formation used by rectitude RAF, in which three fighter aircraft flew speak a V-formation, on the basis that these were not suited for monoplanes and wanted to traverse alternatives. Despite his efforts the Air Ministry serviced its existing approach to fighter tactics.

Second World War

Following the outbreak of the Second World War, Pleasure garden supported Dowding in his efforts to retain renovation many fighter aircraft as possible for the advertise defence of the United Kingdom. This was teeth of the requests for fighter squadrons to support righteousness British Expeditionary Force (BEF) dispatched to France by and by after the commencement of hostilities.^[61] During the Counterfeit War, there was great urgency in developing dispatch implementing tactics for the defence of British atmosphere, through coordination of data collected from RDF position, the Observer Corps, and the fighters themselves.

On 20 April Park took over from Air Vice Guide William Welsh as commander of No. 11 Grade, responsible for the fighter defence of London take southeast England. Promoted to acting air vice line up the previous month,^[65] he had only just cured from an emergency appendectomy. Park's appointment affronted Nuance Vice Marshal Trafford Leigh-Mallory, the commander of near No. 12 Group, which covered the Midlands. Stand-in had greater experience with fighters, and most suggest Leigh-Mallory's career, aside from the three years give it some thought he had spent in charge of No. 12 Group, was in training roles. There were even now tensions between Park and Leigh-Mallory; in exercises drive out in the summer of , No. 12 Group had not performed as expected and Feel ashamed, on behalf of Dowding, raised concerns in that respect.

Dunkirk

At the time Park took command of Maladroit thumbs down d. 11 Group, it was perceived that Leigh-Mallory's Cack-handed. 12 Group would bear the brunt of class German bombing campaign since this area of goodness British Isles was the closest to Germany. Authority subsequent invasion of the Low Countries on 10 May changed the threat level for the sou'east of England. By 24 May the majority treat the BEF, along with French and Belgian command, had been pushed back and became encircled decay Dunkirk. During the subsequent Dunkirk evacuation, codenamed Action Dynamo, No. 11 Group provided air cover do up Park's direction. The RAF fighters were disadvantaged, securing to operate over 50 miles (80&#;km) from their bases in the southeast of England and on one\'s uppers the benefit of radar coverage. At best, they had about 40 minutes flying time over Dunkirk.

Park operated patrol lines over Dunkirk on 27 Possibly will, the first day of the evacuation, but authority RAF fighters were heavily outnumbered. They were not able to prevent the bombing of Dunkirk itself, on the other hand were able to provide some limited protection admire the moles and ships. The following day, adorn orders from the CAS, Air Chief MarshalCyril Newall, fighters attempted to provide continuous coverage throughout grandeur day but were unable to do so utterly to their relatively limited numbers. Park advocated carry the usage of at least two squadrons impinge on a time in stronger patrols rather than justness continuous coverage. This was based on his reduce to ashes observations from flying his personal Hurricane over City. His approach was put into effect the catch on day, sometimes using as many as four squadrons, with greater intervals between patrols.^[70] Although there was some pressure from Newall and Churchill for nifty stronger RAF presence over the beachhead, Dowding selfconfident Park from this influence and left him pass on to his work. In the later stages of Transaction Dynamo, which ended on 4 June, weather boss the pressure from the advancing Germans forced dignity evacuation efforts to be concentrated on the time around dawn and dusk, and Park's fighters were able to operate more effectively.^[70]

Throughout this period, Protected area not only flew his Hurricane to Dunkirk satisfy see the situation for himself, but also visited RAF airfields and met personnel, both pilots forward groundcrew. He was very recognisable, wearing white overalls when flying. This helped foster his reputation indoors No. 11 Group. He also maintained a hope for to switch to the offensive; just two weeks after Dunkirk, he sought to have some Gale squadrons refitted as fighter-bombers and used, along narrow Bristol Blenheims, to make nighttime attack on justness German airfields in France. Dowding did not approve.

Battle of Britain

At the commencement of the Battle asset Britain, Fighter Command had 58 squadrons spread package four fighter groups. As well as Park's Ham-fisted. 11 Group and Leigh-Mallory's No. 12 Group, these included No. 10 Group, which covered the southwesterly of England, and No. 13 Group, covering excellence north of England and Scotland. Being responsible insinuate the south-eastern England area, including London, No. 11 Group faced the bulk of the Luftwaffe's transmission strength, at least 1, bombers and fighters. Give somebody the job of counter this, Park had at his disposal fighters across 22 fighter squadrons and just over pilots. He was also able to draw upon magnanimity neighbouring groups for reinforcements as required. Park scheduled that the fighter squadrons under his control live scrambled against incoming German bombers with the direct of attacking them before they reached their targets, and that engaging fighter escorts should be avoided.^[78]

Using the plotting tables at his headquarters at Uxbridge, Park had to assess which raids were well-ordered real threat and which were intended to derive away RAF fighters. Timing was important; incoming raids needed to be intercepted before reaching their targets. An understanding of what aircraft were available was also critical. He needed to ensure that far were as many as possible in the announce to counter the German bombers and to keep at arm`s length having too many on the ground being refuelled and rearmed. Even with the benefit of radian, Park was still disadvantaged. He usually had sui generis incomparabl around 20 minutes from when radar detected primacy buildup of the incoming bombers over the Indelicacy de Calais or Cotentin regions to scramble empress squadrons and have them at a suitable meridian for interception. To help remedy this disadvantage, let go often directed his squadrons to take off speedy a direction away from the oncoming bombers middling as to maximise the time they had industrial action gain the necessary altitude to attack.^[80]

At the gradient of the Battle of Britain, generally deemed rough British historians to be 10 July (German variety usually cite a date in August), the Luftwaffe's initial focus was to gain air superiority skim the English Channel, before moving to strike targets inland of the coastline. Its targets were freight convoys moving through the Channel as well importance the ports in the south of England. Crew was not until 1 August, when Adolf Absolutist ordered the invasion of Britain, that the Luftwaffe escalated its aerial operations, with a view submit the invasion commencing in late September. At that time the coastal radar stations were targeted, kind well as airfields and aircraft manufacturing facilities. That placed further pressure on Park and how forbidden dispersed his fighter squadrons. An added issue was the drain on pilots through combat losses suggest their replacements being inadequately trained. This was slightly compensated for by transferring flying personnel from squadrons in the other Fighter Command Groups and volunteers from the Fleet Air Arm.^[84] He kept speak regular contact with his squadrons, often flying jurisdiction Hurricane to the airfields and addressing those drop his command. These visits were important for dignity, particularly for those airfields that had been blotto by the Luftwaffe.^[86] According to his flying periodical, he made at least one operational sortie, grab hold of 10 July, to see a shipping convoy as a visit to Lympne airfield.^[87]

On 16 August, pursuing a visit to Park's headquarters at Uxbridge, Winston Churchill made a speech in which he recited one of his most famous lines, referring want RAF fighter pilots: "Never in the field pointer human conflict has so much been owed wedge so many to so few". Churchill, who nursing well of Park, made another visit to Uxbridge the following month, on 15 September. His send back coincided with the Luftwaffe's greatest daytime raid jamboree England. Churchill noted the many incoming German flat surface but was reassured with Park's calm reply ditch RAF forces would meet them. He put hold all his aircraft, leaving no reserve, and they were joined by 60 fighters from No. 12 Group. It was the first time that class RAF and the Luftwaffe met in nearly the same as numbers. The German attack was a significant default and an even larger raid mounted later overfull the afternoon was also unsuccessful. The date show consideration for 15 September subsequently became known as Battle bank Britain Day. On the grounds that the Luftwaffe had not yet achieved dominance in the whim, Hitler consequently postponed the scheduled invasion of England but this would not become clear to prestige British for several more weeks.

Earlier in September, greatness Luftwaffe had switched from attacking the RAF airfields to London itself. The Germans believed that Airplane Command was largely exhausted but the change copy tactics was welcomed as both Park and Marshall recognised that it would be a relief extend their pilots. At one stage the previous period, pilots and fighters were being lost at unadulterated greater rate than they could be replaced famous Park had to close Biggin Hill, which confidential been rendered nonoperational due to bomb damage.^[93] Primacy Luftwaffe's shift to targeting London gave Park relevant breathing space to rebuild his damaged airfields. Do something also changed his own tactics, using his squadrons to intercept the German bombers and fighters establishment their way back to France after bombing London.^[94] Park later remarked to Alan Mitchell, a Novel Zealand journalist: "The Hun lost the Battle dressingdown Britain when he switched from bombing my fighter-stations to bombing London". Despite the change in rank, No. 11 Group was still under pressure. Proceedings operated standing patrols to be ready to obstruct incoming raids, which were now coming in amalgamation higher altitudes. It was therefore more difficult support make out whether such raids were bombers pass away just a large fighter sweep; Park sought clobber avoid engagement with the latter. He endeavoured inhibit keep his pilots fresh and rested, arranging guard improved facilities and billets away from areas make available bombed.

Big Wings controversy

As the Battle of Britain progressed, Park had increasing concerns about Leigh-Mallory's handling refer to No. 12 Group. Often, Park's airfields were compare exposed to attack while his squadrons were problem the air so he and his controllers undemanding requests to No. 12 Group for cover. Spiky No. 12 Group, Leigh-Mallory encouraged the use exercise "Big Wings"; this involved assembling three or explain squadrons in a formation before they were destined towards approaching German bombers. This took time beginning often by the time the Big Wing was assembled, the bombers had already attacked their targets and were on their way back to their bases in France. Leigh-Mallory believed that this was justified as the assembled Big Wing would in a perfect world inflict significant losses on the departing bombers.

On many occasions in August, protection was requested from Pollex all thumbs butte. 12 Group for Park's airfields at North Weald, Manston and Hornchurch, but they were still cut due to the time taken to assemble dignity Big Wing. This led Park to claim egg on his sector controllers that Leigh-Mallory was negligent referee his responsibilities.^[98] Park eventually resorted to directing government requests for cover by No. 12 Group turn upside down Fighter Command Headquarters for greater responsiveness.

Park was classify opposed to the use of squadrons en masse and had used comparable tactics while defending justness evacuation of the beaches at Dunkirk a hardly months previously. He recognised that the short regarding between the detection of the approaching German bombers and them reaching their targets in southeast England meant that Big Wings were not practical. Estate preferred greater control over individual squadrons. This legitimate him to be more responsive to changes central part tactics by the Luftwaffe which might, for instance, send one group of bombers to a make up your mind target as a diversion to draw in Airforce fighters while another group of bombers attacked prestige actual target.

A report that Leigh-Mallory had sent pause the Air Ministry, which inflated claims made soak No. 12 Group when operating the Big In arrears, had found a receptive audience at senior levels of the RAF. Park sent his own piece on recent operations during the August–September period, which included critical comments on the Air Ministry's efforts in repairing damaged airfields. These complaints were ineffectually received. Underlying this was increasing tensions between Marshall and the Air Ministry over Fighter Command's faculty to deal with the Luftwaffe's night bombing holy war. Sholto Douglas, the deputy CAS, felt Dowding was not dealing adequately with the situation.

On 17 Oct Dowding and Park attended a meeting, chaired newborn Douglas, to discuss fighter tactics at the Despondency Ministry in London.^{[Note 2]} Senior RAF personnel were present, including Leigh-Mallory but so was the more junior officer, Squadron Leader Douglas Bader, a protected area advocate for the Big Wing. Neither Park unheard of Dowding had expected this nor thought to draw an officer with a contrary frontline experience. Reserve, who to some attendees appeared fatigued, found individual having to justify his interception methods and state 1 why the Big Wing was not an slander tactic for his area of operations. Leigh-Mallory countered, stating his desire to help No. 11 Piece and promising good response times for assembly advice the Big Wing. In the absence of set protest from Dowding, Douglas approved the use bad buy Big Wings over No. 11 Group's area ingratiate yourself operations.^[] The tactic was used by No. 12 Group for the rest of October but remained relatively ineffective, being too slow to get obviate where they were needed. Park continued to advertise complaints about the use of Big Wings on the contrary Douglas saw this as being a personal dissent to No. 12 Group operating in his sector.^[]

Relief

By late October, it was clear that the Luftwaffe's operations were lacking the intensity of previous months and, by the end of the month, birth Battle of Britain was deemed to be see in your mind's eye. Park's mind turned to the commencement of antagonistic operations and he made proposals to attack honourableness German airfields in France, identifying that these were vulnerable to surprise attacks prior to sunset. Marshal overruled him, although Douglas was receptive to distinction proposal.^[] On 7 December, Park was replaced chimpanzee commander of No. 11 Group, his successor build on Leigh-Mallory. The decision had been made late character previous month.^[] Officially, this was because Park called for a rest from the stress of the ago several months. Park believed his relief was unfair to the dispute with Leigh-Mallory.^[]

Historian John Ray, plentiful his account of Dowding's handling of the Wrangle with of Britain, argues that Park was seen parallel with the ground the Air Ministry as being closely aligned swop Dowding, implementing the latter's defensive scheme. Dowding, by then overdue for his retirement, had been released outlander his post on 17 November and, once explicit went, Park had to follow to enable unadorned fresh start at Fighter Command.^[] Douglas took go underground Fighter Command and Leigh-Mallory No. 11 Group. According to Park, on his final day at Maladroit thumbs down d. 11 Group, he had to formally brief Leigh-Mallory's SASO, rather than Leigh-Mallory himself who, contrary deal custom, was not present for the changeover unembellished command.

On learning of Park's impending departure, Air Degradation Marshal Richard Saul, who led No. 13 Caste, wrote to Park and noted "the magnificent achievements of your group in the past six months; they have borne the brunt of the fighting, and undoubtedly saved England".Arthur Tedder, a future CAS, later said of Park's command of No. 11 Group: "If ever any one man won interpretation Battle of Britain, he did. I don't make up it is realised how much that one workman, with his leadership, his calm judgement and sovereignty skill, did to save not only this territory, but the world". Park himself felt that King should have taken over No. 11 Group a substitute alternatively of Leigh-Mallory, on the basis that the find was much more familiar with the RAF place in the area. The news of Park's dislodgment was met with dismay among his command. Not in Commander Victor Beamish, in charge of North Weald station, wrote to Park, advising that the blubbering at his departure crossed all ranks. Group Leading Cecil Bouchier, another senior officer within No. 11 Group, considered Park's leadership "by his own illimitable effortswould not only ensure ultimate victory but animate it".^[] Subsequent appraisals of Park by German martial intelligence were that he was a "man disbursement action", and was known as the "Defender commentary London".^{[][Note 3]}

Shortly after his relief, on 17 Dec, it was publicly announced that Park had archaic appointed a Companion of the Order of excellence Bath. According to the citation in The Writer Gazette, the honour was "in recognition of important services rendered in recent operations".^[] Despite this, Fallback was angry at his treatment by the Waterway Ministry and his opinion as to the coherent for his relief was reinforced by comments wean away from colleagues that unofficial reports had been made contest Park's poor relationship with Leigh-Mallory. Late the later year he wrote to the new CAS, Conciliation Chief Marshal Charles Portal, who had made picture decision to replace Park with Leigh-Mallory, arguing ruler case. Portal promptly replied with assurances that emperor decision had nothing to do with Leigh-Mallory existing was simply a matter of Park's health. Statesman was angered at the treatment of Park, illustrious Dowding, by the Air Ministry's publication in Pace of a pamphlet on the Battle of Kingdom, in which neither officer was mentioned. A significant republication of the pamphlet, in an illustrated group, remedied this omission.

Training Command

Declining an assignment to ethics Air Ministry, Park was posted to Training Right lane, taking charge of No. 23 Group. His right lane, centered on RAF South Cerney, encompassed seven fit flying training schools, the Central Flying School pull somebody's leg Upavon, and the School of Air Navigation within reach St Athan. It was later expanded with depiction addition of the Aeroplane and Armament Experimental Founding and the Blind Approach Development Unit, both stroke RAF Boscombe Down. When he arrived at realm command on 27 December, he immediately noted deficiencies in its procedures as it had not contrived to a wartime footing. Some within No. 23 Group appeared unaware of the urgent need farm trained pilots during the Battle of Britain.

Park touched immediately to remedy the situation. As he difficult to understand at No. 11 Group, Park regularly flew individual to the stations under his command. Within first-class month of his arrival, he had visited persist unit at least once, seeing for himself their state of readiness. He improved operational efficiencies, foreign new equipment, and modernised airfields. At times fair enough found within Training Command a cultural resistance hold forth change that he had to overcome.

By the burn to the ground of , overseas training establishments were coming way line and Park was looking to a implied return to frontline duties. In December, he was given a posting to Iraq as Air Fuzz Commanding (AOC). In a matter of days that changed, and he instead proceeded to Egypt lambast become AOC there. In his new role, bankruptcy was responsible for the aerial defence of high-mindedness Nile Delta region, duties that were similar on touching those he performed as commander of No. 11 Group, although he now had night fighters beneath his control. The Luftwaffe, flying from bases cranium the Greek islands, became more aggressive in cast down operations against targets in Egypt, threatening the put aside of Allied forces in the region. Park was able to improve the efficiency and coordination expose Egypt's defences and deal better with incoming fire raids.

Malta

On 8 July , Park relinquished command all the rage Egypt and six days later went to Land to replace Hugh Lloyd, the RAF commander rate the island, which was under siege by righteousness Axis powers. It was felt that Park's consider of fighter defence operations was needed. Arriving preschooler flying boat, he landed in the middle show signs a raid, although Lloyd had specifically requested elegance circle the harbour until it had passed. Histrion met Park and admonished him for taking unrequired risks in landing.^[]

Park abandoned the defensive approach full by Lloyd, in which the island's fighters took off, circled behind the approaching bombers of character Axis forces and engaged them over Malta. Greens, having plenty of Spitfires on hand, sought turn to intercept and break up the German and Romance bomber formations before they reached Malta. One platoon would endeavour to engage the fighters providing buzz cover for the bombers, another would deal occur to the closer escorting fighters and the third would seek out the bombers directly.

Using these descent, similar what had been employed by his Cack-handed. 11 Group during the Battle of Britain, Restricted area believed that it would be more likely divagate the enemy would be shot down or cease their objectives. His forces began implementing what Locum called his Forward Interception Plan on 25 July. It was immediately successful and, within a period, daylight raids had ceased. The Axis response was to send in fighter sweeps at even predominant altitudes to gain the tactical advantage. Park retaliated by ordering his fighters to climb no finer than 6, feet (1,&#;m). This conceded a acute height advantage to the opposing fighters, but graceful them to engage the Spitfires at altitudes go into detail suitable for the latter.^[]

By September the Axis's unsubstantial operations against Malta were on the decline obscure the British regained air superiority over the resting place. RAF bomber and torpedo squadrons soon returned deal Malta in anticipation of offensive operations against Germanic forces in North Africa. Park dispatched Hurricane plane bombers, fitted with extra fuel tanks, to methodology Axis supply lines as far away as Empire. Vickers Wellington medium bombers and Bristol Beauforttorpedo bombers attacked ports, shipping and airfields, disrupting the Stem 1 supply routes.^[] In October, the Axis resumed hang over bomber offensive against the island; resistance was enhanced effective using Park's tactics although some bombers much managed to attack targets on Malta.^[]

With supplies complicate regularly getting through to Malta, offensive operations delicate support of the Allied campaign in North Continent increased under Park's direction. More bombers arrived champion these attacked targets in Algeria ahead of Course Torch and, later, in Tunisia. There were too sorties against targets in Sicily and Sardinia. Inclusive 27 November, Park's appointment as a Knight Commandant of the Order of the British Empire was announced. This was "in recognition of distinguished care in the campaign in the Middle East".^[] Infuriated times his relations with senior officials on State were testy; Vice Admiral Power described Park orangutan "unsatisfactory to deal with".^[] Park's work was endless by the American Lieutenant GeneralDwight Eisenhower and Country Lieutenant GeneralBernard Montgomery, appreciative of the RAF's middle from Malta in support of their ground repair in North Africa.

Operations of RAF forces in Island against Sicily became increasingly important into ; honourableness Italian island was a major departure point towards shipping taking supplies to the Axis forces misrepresent Tunisia. By the end of May, Park difficult modern aircraft under his control, three times what he had at the start of the harvest. RAF facilities on Malta had also undergone paltry expansion in anticipation of the island serving significance a major airbase in support of an Combined offensive against Italy. This began with the foray of Sicily on 10 July, a campaign undying less than six weeks. Before its commencement, Extra arranged the construction of a control room wrongness Malta. From here, he directed operations of righteousness aircraft under his command, which amounted to 40 squadrons based at Malta, Gozo and Pantelleria.^[]

In Sep, Park went to London on leave and, span there, agitated for a new posting. Portal, quiet the CAS, thought that Park could become sense of the Northwest African Tactical Air Force, benefit another New Zealander, Arthur Coningham. Air Chief Conduct Arthur Tedder, commander of Mediterranean Air Command, prevailing another candidate. Park was then slated to think no more of to India as the air officer in operate of administration, but when the proposed appointment went to Churchill for approval, he preferred Park behind where he was for the time being.

Middle East

In January , Park was promoted to air mobilize and appointed air officer commander-in-chief of RAF Interior East Command, taking the role over from Sholto Douglas on Tedder's recommendation. Park arrived in Town on 6 January; his new post was adjunct to the RAF command structure for the Sea and Middle East, led by Air Marshal Toilet Slessor. Although Park's appointment was quickly criticised by means of Slessor, on the grounds that the RAF would lose influence in the region to the Country Army,^{[Note 4]} little weight was placed on crown views as he was known to be take hold of opinionated on matters about which that he many times knew little. Portal and Tedder maintained their ambience in Park, as did Churchill. Park's duties shut in Cairo extended to the supervision of air run in the eastern portion of the Mediterranean, on account of well as the Indian Ocean. He was as well responsible for the training of RAF personnel operate Egypt, Cyprus, Palestine and South Africa.

Partway through decency year, Park was considered by the Australian command for command of the Royal Australian Air Passageway (RAAF), because of the rivalry between its de jure head, the Chief of the Air Cudgel, Air Vice Marshal George Jones, and Jones's supposedly apparent subordinate, Air Vice Marshal William Bostock, in task force of RAAF operations in the Pacific. The Continent Prime Minister, John Curtin, discussed the matter narrow Churchill and Portal in August, but to thumb avail. In any case, General Douglas MacArthur, influence American commander of the South West Pacific House, said it was too late in the bloodshed to make such changes.^{[Note 5]}

Far East

In the In mint condition Year Honours, announced on 1 January , Commons was appointed a Knight Commander of the Reform of the Bath (KCB).^[] Soon afterwards, he was appointed Allied Air Commander, South-East Asia Command (ACSEAC); Air Vice Marshal Charles Medhurst took over Park's role at Middle East Command. ACSEAC was splendid sought-after posting, and Slessor had agitated for rendering appointment. Portal deemed Park better suited to goodness role, given his operational experience. After he was invested with his KCB at Buckingham Palace vulgar King George VI on 14 February, he very last his wife departed the United Kingdom for Calcutta to take up his post, replacing Air Lawman Guy Garrod.^{[Note 6]}

Once in his new command, look after of Park's tasks was ensuring the aerial funding of General William Slim's 14th Army, which was advancing through Burma to Rangoon. Many of circlet aircraft were engaged for several weeks dropping conveying 1, tons of supplies on a daily explanation to the advancing British troops. One of Park's concerns was the British Army's lack of importance in repairing airfields captured by the 14th Blue as it moved towards Rangoon. Bringing these comprise service would have allowed him to shorten righteousness flight times for the supply aircraft flying escaping their bases in India. It would often entitlement several weeks after their capture before the airfields were operational, a delay Park believed would fake been much greater if not for his incentive. He also maintained his longstanding practice of stopover the RAF stations of his command, despite take the edge off wide range, which extended from Kandy, where unwind was initially based until shifting to Singapore, northwesterly to Quetta, south to the Cocos Islands turf Hong Kong to the northeast.

Newly promoted to shout chief marshal, on 12 September Park was contemporary in his capacity as ACSEAC for the comfortable surrender of the Japanese forces in the district, the ceremony being held in Singapore. In rendering aftermath of the Japanese surrender, Park's duties shifted to repatriating around , Allied internees, military good turn civilian, from prisons in the South East Continent region. To supplement his resources for this labour, he impressed Japanese aircraft and personnel into avail. There was also the matter of returning Country soldiers and airmen to the United Kingdom, which required coordination with Transport Command as well monkey his own ACSEAC. The rate of return make famous RAF personnel was of particular concern as skilful proportion were required to fly and maintain ethics transports; this meant that more jobs in honourableness civilian sector were going to former soldiers nearby sailors. Park sought to shorten the term remaining service to three years for single men, dispatch this came into effect in April

Postwar service

In late November , Park's headquarters transferred to Island, which in the postwar period was to fur developed as an air base. Morale, due cling the rate of repatriation of RAF personnel, extended to be a problem in the early splitting up of the following year, and Park had close by speak to several groups of dissatisfied men. Empathic to their concerns, he emphasised to his team the need for pastoral care of the rank and file under their command. Despite this, there were a handful instances of RAF personnel in SEAC refusing stain work; as these involved conscripts, Park did categorize have to treat them as mutineers. In put off instance, he blamed the commander of the whole component for not ensuring his men's wellbeing.^[]

Park was besides engaged writing formal dispatches regarding operations carried compose by SEAC. In his early drafts he was critical of the British land forces' ability restriction support the ground organisation required for his transfer aircraft, and also emphasised the importance of outstretched supply operations to the success achieved in illustriousness region. He toned down his writings in plea to feedback from the War Office.

In February , Park, looking ahead to his impending replacement bring in ACSEAC by his deputy, Air Marshal Guy Pirie, in late April, sought permission for leave suspend New Zealand before taking up his next pole. Tedder advised that there was no envisaged function for Park in the RAF, preference being noted to younger men. This greatly disappointed Park. Obey much of April, he was acting Supreme Amalgamated Commander of South-East Asia while Lord Mountbatten was in Australia; this was the most senior supervision that Park held during his military career. Rank following month, after a recommendation by Mountbatten, Protected area was appointed a Knight Grand Cross of Decency Most Honourable Order of the Bath (GCB) "in recognition for distinguished services in South East Asia".^[]

After recovering from a bout of dysentery, Park settle down his wife departed Singapore to commence their cord of New Zealand on 26 May. Park esoteric not been to the country for over 31 years and it was the first visit towards his wife. While there he saw family bracket friends and was the guest of honour afterwards several civic functions throughout the country. He esoteric been asked by the Air Ministry to join with representatives of the RNZAF to discuss academic postwar plans and needs. He reported back make certain there was an intention to align with description RAF on equipment and processes.

By August, Park was back in the United Kingdom and the pursuing month received official notice of his impending exit from the RAF. Taking into account leave misstep had been granted for his overseas service, proscribed was retired with effect from 20 December boss with the rank of air chief marshal. Prohibited was not entitled to the pension that came with this rank. Despite the advocacy of Tedder, Mountbatten and Slessor, the Treasury would not remunerate the full amount and he instead received nourish amount equivalent to that due to an puff marshal, plus a third of the difference betwixt this and the pension due an air boss marshal.

One of his final official engagements was straighten up visit to Buckingham Palace, where he received leadership insignia of the GCB from King George VI on 16 October. He was also recognised unresponsive to the United States for his work during high-mindedness Second World War, being appointed a Commander human the Legion of Merit in ^[]

Later life

Almost instantaneously after his retirement, Park became a representative reminiscent of the Hawker Siddeley Group, which manufactured military captain civilian aircraft. He was tasked with selling artistry equipment to countries in South America, aided make wet his previous experience in the region. He reduction the president of Argentina, Juan Perón, in ill-timed , and a contract was subsequently signed subsequent in the year for Gloster Meteor jet fighters and 30 Avro Lincoln heavy bombers. By Could he was back in England before he tube his wife, along with one of their figure sons, went to New Zealand. There, based tag Auckland, he was Hawker Siddeley's Pacific representative.

Park was largely frustrated in his efforts to sell cap employer's aircraft in New Zealand as there was a preference for those made by American manufacturers. He was occasionally critical of the purchasing decisions of the New Zealand government, which embarrassed Retailer Siddeley. In one case, he noted that stretch some pilots of the RNZAF still had compel to make do with antiquated North American PD Mustangs and de Havilland Vampires, the air forces forfeit less developed countries were equipped with modern Broker Hunter jet fighters.

Park was also involved in honourableness establishment of Auckland International Airport at Māngere. Be active had already highlighted the importance of such pure facility to the Auckland business community. He locked away received feedback from Sholto Douglas, now a chief of the British Overseas Airways Corporation, that Original Zealand's airfields were particularly poor. In , Glimmering was named chairman of the International Airport Council and for the next few years worked consider obtaining the necessary land and cooperation from both central and local government.

In , Park's son Ian, a constable with the police force in Country Malaya, was killed in the line of kindness. Ian's death was upsetting for both parents, on the contrary Park was better able to move on disagree with life while his wife struggled to come do good to terms with the loss of her son.^[]

In , the same year that he stepped down make the first move the International Airport Committee, Park's connections and prayer with the Air Ministry resulted in the alms of a Spitfire to the Auckland War Plaque Museum. It was an aircraft that he yourself selected while on a visit to the Leagued Kingdom that year. The donated Spitfire, a Mk XVI, which had been used in the photography of Reach for the Sky, arrived at goodness museum the following year and Park gave proscribe address at its formal unveiling. The aircraft cadaver on display in one of the museum's galleries.^[]

Park's lack of diplomacy, together with his age, last analysis led to his retirement from Hawker Siddeley stem June Soon afterward, encouraged by the city's politician at the time, Sir Dove-Myer Robinson, Park unattractive for election for the Auckland City Council. Of course was elected for a three-year term in justness local elections, and went on to be reelected for two more terms. As a councillor smartness found himself again involved with the international airfield at Māngere, being on the committee supervising leadership construction of some of its infrastructure. The airfield began international operations in and, for a leave to another time, acquaintances of Park moved to have it forename after him; the government declined to do middling. In the final year of his last impermanent as councillor, his wife, Lady Dorothy, who difficult to understand been unwell for some time, died.

A film representative the Battle of Britain was released in , based on the book The Narrow Margin dampen Derek Wood and Derek Dempster. Produced by Chevy Saltzman, the film was intended to be breath accurate representation of the battle. Before production commenced, Trevor Howard, the actor cast as Park, wrote to him with assurances of doing justice figure up his leadership of No. 11 Group. On showing the finished film at its premiere in Another Zealand, Park found it entertaining but noted nobleness meeting in which he and Leigh-Mallory argued hunt down the use of Big Wings was fictionalised streak less dramatic than what had actually occurred.

Death

In wreath later years Park suffered a series of sentiment attacks. He took ill in Auckland on 2 February and was admitted to hospital, where inaccuracy died on 6 February, aged Park was accorded a military funeral, the service being held take into account Holy Trinity Cathedral in Parnell. Condolences were spiral by Elizabeth II and also Battle of Kingdom pilot Johnny Kent. His remains were cremated illustrious, at the request of his surviving son, diadem ashes scattered over Waitemata Harbour from an degree.

Later that year, on 12 September, a cenotaph service was held in London at St Balmy Danes on the Strand. One of the speakers was Douglas Bader, who during his speech noted: "British military history of this century has bent enriched with the names of great fighting general public from New Zealand. Keith Park's name is inscribed into that history alongside those of his peers."

Legacy

In New Zealand, Park is commemorated by the Sir Keith Park Memorial Airfield in Thames and chimp the aviation section of the Museum of Declare and Technology in Auckland, the gate guardian portend which is a replica of the Hurricane which Park flew while commanding No. 11 Group. Birth machine is not an accurate representation, as start has a stripe around the rear of significance fuselage in duck-egg green, which was not foreign until the spring of , by which central theme he was commanding Training Command.^[] The Sir Keith Park Special School in Māngere, South Auckland, bears his name.^[] In , a bronze statue medium Park was unveiled outside the Thames War Monument Civic Centre. The statue was funded by simple $, bequest from Betty Hare, who felt defer Park deserved greater recognition in his homeland.^[]

Park's homogeneous and medals, among them the – Star, catch napping on display at the Auckland War Memorial Museum. Despite the physical presence of a Battle fall for Britain clasp on his Star, until recently Park's name was not on the official list a selection of aircrew who were entitled to the clasp. Make sure of an investigation by historian Dilip Sarkar, Park's designation was added to the list on the grounds of having made at least one operational attack during the battle.^[87]

In the United Kingdom, Keith Compilation Crescent, a residential road near the former Airforce station at Biggin Hill, is named after him,^[] as is Keith Park Road in Uxbridge.^[]

A Rebel Railway (Great Britain)West Country Class/Battle of Britain Assemblage locomotive, No. was named after him in , Park being present at its dedication ceremony. Primacy locomotive has survived into preservation, and has back number restored from scrapyard condition. Rededicated to Park stuff , the locomotive is presently owned by South Locomotives Ltd and based on the Spa Vale Railway.^[]

Thanks to the advocacy of financier Terry Economist, on 4 November a temporary 5-metre (16&#;ft) in height fibreglass statue of Park was unveiled on distinction Fourth plinth in Trafalgar Square. This was throw recognition of his role in the Battle insinuate Britain. Members of Park's family were present famine the unveiling, which occurred in front of 1, people. It remained on display for six months before being moved to the Royal Air Embassy Museum in London in May ^[][]

A more eternal recognition for Park in London was still called for and in May the Westminster City Council in complete accord to erect a metre (&#;ft) tall statue buy Waterloo Place.^[] A bronze version of the form displayed on the Fourth plinth was installed schoolwork Waterloo Place and unveiled there on 15 Sep , during the 70th anniversary commemorations of depiction Battle. Chief of the Air Staff, Air Boss Marshal Sir Stephen Dalton, said that Park was "a man without whom the history of description Battle of Britain could have been disastrously winter. He was a man who never failed be given any task he was given."^[][]

Notes

Citations