The events of 28th November 1940 at Apse Manor Airfield – and the death of RAF Pilot Archibald Patrick Lyall – have been recounted in a film with contributions by Retired Air Vice-Marshal Tony Stables CBE, Royal British Legion Isle of Wight President Ian Ward BEM and Shanklin Historian John Holmberg.
Pilot Officer Lyall was shot down by German flying ace Helmut Wick some 80 years ago over Apse Manor Airfield and sadly died when baling out. Lyall’s Spitfire survived the crash and was used again.
German Wing Commander Wick was killed 2 hours later on 28th November, just off the Needles.
Tony Stables explains:
“Archibald Lyall’s is a moving story, and the film tells the events of the day, 80 years ago, as well as outlines the background to Helmut Wick, and Flight Lieutenant John Dundas, responsible for shooting down Wick’s aircraft”.
Ian Ward adds:
“This year saw the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, and we felt it appropriate to tell the story of this Battle over Shanklin, and honour the memory of Archibald, as well as the debt we owe to ‘the few’.”
John Holmberg concludes:
“The film is our tribute to Pilot Officer Lyall, and although we tend the plaque dedicated to his memory, the film tells the stories of the battles above the Island that day, the history of the airfield, and the other pilots involved that day”.
The leaders of the country then cared deeply about the UK and it’s people, and the leaders of the council cared for this Island and it’s population.
Sad in so many ways that these brave guys although they never died in vain, as they fought to protect their own loved ones at that time, but MP’s have let them down ever since imo.
Greed and lack of love for your own country or its own people has played a huge part in the demise.
Totally Agree.
Love to know if PO Lyall died bailing out,
How did his Spitfire crash land such that it was reusable?
I’m not doubting it,just would like to know more.