Buddell, John Charles

Date of birth:: November 1920 (Durban, South Africa)
Service number:: 103947 V
Nationality:: South African (1910-1961, Union)

Biography

Charles Buddell enlisted in the South African Air Force at the outbreak of hostilities. After receiving his wings he was posted to No. 7 SAAF Squadron.
On 13 November 1944, whilst strafing a vehicle near Ravenna, north of Lake Commachio, Buddell’s Spitfire was hit by a 20mm. anti-aircraft shell which forced him to crash-land on a beach about two
miles north of San Guiseppe.
He managed to get to safety and was brought into contact with the local Partisans. As such he was involved in a partisan raid on Porto Corsini.
After crossing the allied lines and a rest he returned to flying duties.
He was released from military service in February 1946.

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Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Lieutenant
Unit:: No. 7 Squadron, South African Air Force
Awarded on:: March 16th, 1945

Recommendation:
"An excellent tour by this pilot was ended when he was grounded after being shot down by enemy ground fire while strafing north of Lake Commachio on 13 September 1944. His strafing and divebombing record is worthy of high praise, and his keenness and initiative is second to none.
Constantly throughout his tour he has returned with good results. He has helped to destroy several trains. He has destroyed many vehicles and despatch riders.
On 13 May 1944, he was a member of a formation which strafed a train consisting of two engines and 40-plus trucks, and as a result of the strafing steam poured out of the engine, and due to this attack on a moving train it remained at the pin point for 48 hours. This is one of the excellent shows this pilot has done. Very strongly recommended."

In addition to the covering remarks of the A.O.C., Desert Air Force - as quoted above - the Wing Leader stated:
"Lieutenant Buddell has always displayed the greatest keenness to engage the enemy and has on all occasions pressed home his attacks with determination, often in the face of resolute opposition.
Recently, when shot down behind enemy lines, he displayed the greatest coolness in action and complete disregard for personal safety, when he rescued a wounded patriot who he brought back to
safety over ground swept by enemy fire."