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Sgt Babbage lighting a cigarette, Bognor, 26 Aug 1940
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Sgt Babbage lighting a cigarette, Bognor, 26 Aug 1940
On the beach at Bognor Regis close to the pier, the rescued pilot is accompanied by policemen and soldiers. Sgt Cyril Babbage belonged to 602 City of Glasgow Squadron, based at Westhampnett. He was shot down in his Spitfire off Bognor during the Battle of Britain. The pier can be seen in the background; the central section is missing, removed to prevent the Germans from using it as a landing stage.
L Alouette Collection
West Sussex Record Office Ref No: L Alouette/A/1/3/21
West Sussex County Council Record Office contains a fascinating history of the county of West Sussex, England
Media ID 8359803
© West Sussex County Council - All Rights Reserved
Frank Lalouette Second World War World War Two
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this photo print, we are transported back to the historic events of August 26,1940. The image showcases Sgt Cyril Babbage, a brave pilot belonging to the esteemed 602 City of Glasgow Squadron. Standing on the sandy shores of Bognor Regis near the pier, Sgt Babbage is seen lighting a cigarette amidst a group of policemen and soldiers. The significance of this moment lies in the fact that just moments before this photograph was taken, Sgt Babbage had been rescued from his downed Spitfire during the intense Battle of Britain. His survival serves as a testament to his courage and resilience in the face of adversity. As our gaze shifts towards the background, we notice an intriguing detail - part of the pier is missing. This deliberate removal was done to prevent any potential German invasion by using it as a landing stage. It stands as a poignant reminder of how communities rallied together during World War II to protect their homeland. Preserved within West Sussex Record Office's L Alouette Collection, this remarkable snapshot captures not only an individual's triumph over tragedy but also reflects upon larger themes such as sacrifice and unity during one of history's most challenging periods. Let us remember those who fought valiantly for our freedom and honor their legacy through images like these that continue to inspire generations today.
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