Squadron Leader Brian John Edward ‘Sandy’ Lane

Brian Lane’s abilities as a fighter pilot were recognised when he was promoted to Commanding Officer of 19 Squadron in September 1940. Lane was extremely well liked by his men, and was a flying ace of the Battle of Britain. He wrote a book about his experiences in the Battle, ‘Spitfire!’, which was published in 1942. Tragically, Lane was reported ‘missing in action’ in December that year and has no known grave. He was just 25 years old.