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Rampling, Kenneth Johnson

Date of birth:
July 4th, 1912 (Willesden/Middlesex, United Kingdom)
Date of death:
March 22nd, 1944
Buried on:
Commonwealth War Cemetery Durnbach
Plot: 1. Row: E. Grave: 5.
Service number:
34248
Nationality:
British (1801-present, Kingdom)

Biography

On 22 March 1944 Rampling took off from RAF Oakington at 1902 in Lancaster ND532 detailed for an op to Frankfurt. The aircraft was intercepted at 17,600 feet by a night fighter while approaching the AP and set on fire. G/C Rampling managed to clear the target area but within seconds of ordering his crew to bale out, the Lancaster went into a spin and exploded. F/S Haslan had been gravely wounded and though he was helped with his parachute, he never left the aircraft.

Promotions:
14 September, 1934: Acting Pilot Officer on Probation
14 September, 1935: Pilot Officer
? Flying Officer
14 March, 1938: Acting Flight Lieutenant
9 July, 1938: Acting rank of Flight Lieutenant relinquished
1 July, 1940: Temporary Squadron Leader
1 December, 1941: Temporary Wing Commander

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Wing Commander
Unit:
No. 7 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:
November 19th, 1943
Citation:
"This officer has taken part in very many sorties and has displayed outstanding skill and resolution.
One night in October, 1943, Wing Commander Rampling successfully completed a bombing attack on Leipzig despite many difficulties. His unswerving devotion to duty on this occasion was worthy of high praise. Wing Commander Rampling is an ideal leader, whose courageous example has been inspiring."
Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Acting Group Captain
Unit:
No. 7 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:
April 11th, 1944
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Citation:
"This officer has participated in numerous sorties against well defended targets. He has invariably displayed great courage and determination in attacking his targets and his efforts to ensure accuracy have been worthy of the highest praise.
He is a magnificent leader, whose personal example has inspired all. On a recent occasion, Group Captain Rampling took part in an attack on Stuttgart. In spite of fierce opposition from the enemy's defences, he executed his attack with his usual determination and accuracy."
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Acting Group Captain
Awarded on:
June 13th, 1946
Mentioned in Dispatches

Sources

Photo