Air Vice-Marshal Frederick Desmond Hughes (deceased)

Hughes learned to fly with the University Air Squadron before receiving a direct-entry commission into the RAF in 1939. After completing his pilot training, he joined No. 264 Squadron, flying the Defiant during the Battle of Britain and later in night-fighter operations, where he achieved numerous aerial victories alongside his gunner, Sergeant F. Gash, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) in 1941. As a flight commander with No. 125 and later No. 600 Squadron in North Africa, he continued his success against enemy aircraft, receiving two Bars to his DFC for outstanding combat achievements. Returning to Britain in 1944, Hughes commanded No. 604 Squadron during the Allied advance in Europe, claiming further victories before being awarded the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) in 1945. Remaining in the RAF after the war, he held a series of senior staff and command appointments, including Commandant of RAF College Cranwell, where he oversaw the Prince of Wales's flying training. His distinguished post-war service was recognised with the Air Force Cross (AFC), appointment as Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE), and Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB). Hughes retired in 1974 as an Air Vice-Marshal, and died on the 11th of January 1992.

Items Signed by Air Vice-Marshal Frederick Desmond Hughes (deceased)

Packs with at least one item featuring the signature of Air Vice-Marshal Frederick Desmond Hughes (deceased)