John Cunningham

JOHN CUNNINGHAM was born in the middle of World War I and joined the Royal Air Force in 1935.  He flew many types of aircraft and became known as a test pilot.  In 1940 when he was flying Bristol Blenheims, his squadron took up night flying activities, and developed the use of the new airborne radar.  In September of that year he became a Squadron Leader, and two years later a Wing Commander.  Whilst flying night fighters, his squadron shot down twice the number of enemy aircraft as any other.  In order to keep the advent of radar secret, the story was told that this was due to a diet of carrots to improve his night vision.  This led to him becoming known as “Cats Eyes” – and it also helped to promote the value of vegetables in the diet of a population of a country at war.  In 1943 he continued night flying in command of 85 Squadron based at West Malling.  

Douce’s Manor was used as accommodation, and also served as the headquarters for RAF West Malling and the officers’ mess.  After the war Cunningham continued flying as a test pilot and flew the world’s first jet airliner, the Comet.  He never married and retired in 1980.

Also stationed at RAF West Malling between April and December 1941 was Guy Gibson, then acting Squadron Leader of 29 squadron of Bristol Beaufighters.  Later Wing Commander Gibson went on to lead the famous Dam Busters raid in 1943 for which he was awarded the Victoria Cross, Britain’s highest military award for bravery.

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