Flying Officer Kenneth Dowsett DFC
Henry MouldsKenneth Dowsett enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force in April 1942, at the age of 20.
During the Second World War he served with the Royal Air Force in the air war over Europe. In June and July 1943, as a Sergeant, he attended the No. 9 Observer Advanced Flying Unit RAF training course at Llandwrog, Wales. He was later commissioned.
In November 1944 Pilot Officer Dowsett was award the Distinguished Flying Cross for “Skill and fortitude in operations against the enemy” whilst serving with No. 149 "East India" Squadron (RAF). The Squadron was a mainstay of Bomber Command, taking part in the Strategic Bombing campaign from its beginnings in May 1940 until the very end of the war.
At the time of Dowsett’s award the Squadron was operating Avro Lancaster Mk 1 heavy bombers, the same type as the AWM exhibit Avro Lancaster “G for George”.
Kenneth Dowsett discharged from the Royal Australian Air Force in July 1947, with the rank of Flying Officer.
Sources:
AWM website
http://www.historyofwar.org/air/units/RAF/149
Second World War Nominal Roll: http://www.ww2roll.gov.au/
