10/01/2025
We were truly saddened to hear of the passing of Lt Col David Hamilton this week at the grand old age of 102. Originally part of the initial cadre of the 79th Troop Carrier Squadron, he went on detached service to IX Troop Carrier Command Pathfinder School in March 1944.
On D-Day, he flew C-47 43-15330 as Chalk #14 dropping pathfinders from the 507th PIR, 82nd Airborne Division. He continued with the Pathfinders throughout the war participating in Op Dragoon, Op Market Garden and Op Repulse over the heavily defended skies in Belgium during the Battle of the Bulge.
Whilst Neil had travelled to his home in Arizona back in 2017 where he conducted a great interview with him, Charlie had the opportunity to meet him in 2019 at Daks over Duxford. Col Hamilton had a razor sharp memory and was a pleasure to talk to. He remembered Night Fright's pilot, Capt Bill Watson and was impressed with the Night Fright restoration project.
Rest in peace Col Hamilton and thank you for your service. It was an honour to have met you.
If you want to watch Neil's interview, here is the link to it on YouTube.
https://youtu.be/ScLub0QogYw?si=8VafCpn1O8rmPMVm
