By Isle of Wight Observer
A graveside service was held at Sandown Cemetery to honour Pilot Officer John Arthur Joseph Davey, who was killed in action on August 11, 1940, while attempting to land his Hurricane at Sandown Golf Course after being shot down by Me110s.
Led by Rev Mark Williams, a graveside service brought together town and parish councillors from Lake, Sandown and Shanklin, along with fellow councillor and Isle of Wight Royal British Legion President Ian Ward. The ceremony marked the anniversary of the young pilot’s death and paid tribute to his sacrifice during the Battle of Britain.
Pilot Officer Davey, just 20 years old, is buried in a Commonwealth war grave at Sandown Cemetery. His name is also commemorated at Sandown Bay Secondary School, the Battle of Britain Memorial at Capel-Le-Ferne in Kent, and on the Embankment’s national memorial in London.
Rev Williams said: “It is important to remember the sacrifices made by those, such as Pilot Officer Davey, so that others can live the lives they do today.”
Cllr Ward added: “With this year’s VE and VJ 80 commemorations being recognised across Britain and beyond, it is timely to remember the part played by the Island in past conflicts.”
Volunteers across the Bay have also been busy tending to war memorials in Lake, Sandown and Shanklin, and a commemorative flag is now flying at Thearles Green in tribute.
Mal Butler