England. Eastern Counties (S), Sheet 9, R.A.F. Edition dated 1937. 1/4" to 1 mile. Linen backed paper with card covers. Approx. 70 x 54cm (excludes covers). Shows wartime air bases operational at the time of the Battle of Britain including Hornchurch, Northolt & Hendon, Debden, Duxford etc. as well as stations further North including Sywell, Wittering, Mildenhall etc. Also notes artillery and bombing ranges off the coastine. Light soiling. Covers a little creased and soiled. Named to owners including Battle of Britain spitfire pilot Sergeant Clarence William Francis. Francis was posted to 74 Squadron at Rochford on June 24th 1940. This was the satellite station for Hornchurch. He was commissioned in January 1942, eventually leaving the RAF in 1946 as a Flight Lieutenant. Francis was a private individual who did not seek attention or attend RAF reunion functions etc. As such, items relating to him are extremely rare. There isn't even a photo of him in the excellent 'Men of the Battle of Britain' book. This map was purchased directly from the family along with various other items of his kit some years ago. Very good used. Stock code P17523.
