Colin S Bell (Distinguished Flying Cross – AE), born in 1921, joined the Royal Air Force towards the end of 1940 and received flying training in the United States prior to their entry into the War. Following Pearl Harbor, Colin Bell was retained by the American Army Air Corps as an advanced single-engine flying instructor responsible for training American and British Cadets. On his return to the UK in 1943, he converted to twin-engine Mosquito Bombers and joined the 608 Squadron (Pathfinder Group) based at Downham Market in Norfolk. During his tour of Operations, he carried out 50 bombing raids – all over Germany, with 13 of them over Berlin. Subsequently, he was transferred to ferry duties bringing back newly built Mosquitos from Canada to the UK. He ended his full-time RAF service in 1946 flying out of Blackbushe near Camberley, carrying Diplomatic mail to Embassies situated in various parts of Europe and Africa. Post WWII, he qualified as a Chartered Surveyor and served for many years as a Government District Valuer, and finally set up his own firm, of which he is now an active Senior Partner, specializing in the valuation of industrial premises for rating purposes. His interests outside his family include walking, touring the UK, supporting the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund through speaking engagements, socializing, and enjoying good food and wine. He is an active member of the Royal Air Force Club Dining Society and attends most of their functions. He was made a Freeman of the City of London on 13th January 1987, and of the District of Huntingdonshire on 17th August 2013. He married his late wife Kathlyn in July 1943 and has two children, three grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Colin lives in Royal Tunbridge Wells, the last resting place of Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding, Chief of Fighter Command who master-minded the Air Defence of the UK in the Battle of Britain. Thank you for being a part of our Gala.
2025 Gala Honoree – Colin S. Bell
