Paterson Clarence Hughes

He led Spitfires against the Luftwaffe at point-blank range.

Paterson Clarence Hughes was born on 19 September 1917 at Numeralla, near Cooma, New South Wales. One of twelve children, he attended school in Cooma and, after his family moved to Sydney, at Petersham and Fort Street. He enjoyed swimming, football, building model aircraft and making crystal radio sets. After working as a junior stock clerk for a jeweller, he entered the Royal Australian Air Force's cadet training at Point Cook in January 1936.

Hughes graduated as a pilot and travelled to Britain in 1937 to take a short-service commission in the Royal Air Force. He served with No. 64 Squadron before joining the newly formed No. 234 Squadron as a flight commander in November 1939, with the acting rank of flight lieutenant. The squadron converted to Spitfires in spring 1940. Although he retained his Australian identity, his wartime service was in the RAF.

On 8 July 1940, Hughes led a section of three Spitfires against a Junkers Ju 88 near Land's End and shared in the squadron's first aerial victory. Further fighting followed as the Luftwaffe pressed its attacks on Britain. After No. 234 Squadron moved to Middle Wallop in August, Hughes repeatedly attacked German fighters and bombers, often closing to exceptionally short range before firing. His example and instruction helped younger pilots develop their confidence in combat. That August he married Kathleen Agnes Brodrick, known as Kay.

His successes continued into September, and he became the highest-scoring Australian fighter pilot of the Battle of Britain. His promotion to substantive flight lieutenant took effect on 3 September 1940. Four days later, during the Luftwaffe's first major daylight assault on London, he attacked a Dornier Do 17 over Kent. His Spitfire was lost and he was killed, aged 22. The precise sequence remains uncertain; accounts differ over collision, flying debris and gunfire.

Hughes's combat service ended with his death on 7 September 1940. He was buried in Sutton-on-Hull's St James churchyard. His Distinguished Flying Cross, recognizing the leadership and attacks he had already made, was announced in the London Gazette on 22 October 1940. His widow received the award on his behalf.

Official Distinguished Flying Cross citation The London Gazette, 22 October 1940, issue 34976, page 6134.

Awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Acting Flight Lieutenant Paterson Clarence HUGHES (39461) (since killed).

This officer has led his flight with skill and determination. He has displayed gallantry in his attacks on the enemy and has destroyed seven of their aircraft.