Group Captain Thomas Gerald Hetherington and #20 Squadron

[Lorne]

I understand that Hetherington was the Wing Commander of #20 Squadron during WWI. He began as a Lt. in the Essex Regiment, transferred to the 18th. Hussars, was in the RNAS and ended his carreer in 1930 as an air attache in Washington. He also played a significant role in the development of the tank. Does anyone know where I can find more information on him and on Squadron 20? What role did the squadron have in WWI i.e. recon.? What did they fly? Any information would be appreciated.

Best regards,
Lorne Bohn

[Scott]

Thomas Gerard Hetherington

Born June 1886, died October 1951 in London. Joined the RFC on its formation, May 1912. Promoted to temporary Captain, 18th (Queen Mary's Own) Hussars, 9 September 1914. Attached to the RNAS for experimental work, 1914-1915. C.B.E. for "Services in connection with the origination of Tanks" gazetted 7 January 1918. Air Attache, Washington D.C., 1926-1930; Rome, 1931-1935.

His name appears frequently in Tanks, 1914-1918: The Log-book of a ... - Google Book Search.

[Lorne]

Thanks for this information Scott. Sounds like an interesting fellow.

[Graeme]

From various editions of the London Gazette:

MONDAY, 7 JANUARY, 1918.
The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders for the following promotions in, and appointments to, the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, for services in connection with the War: —
To be Commanders of the said Most Excellent Order:
Major Thomas Gerard Hetherington.
Services in connection with the origination of Tanks.


Air Ministry,
15th November, 1921.
ROYAL AIR FORCE.
PERMANENT COMMISSIONS.
The undermentioned are placed on halfpay, Scale B:—
Squadron Leader Thomas Gerard HETHERINGTON, O.B.E. 6th Nov. 1921.


Air Ministry,
1st January, 1923.
ROYAL AIR FORCE.
His Majesty the KING has been graciously pleased to approve of the following awards to the undermentioned officers and airman of the Royal Air Force:
PROMOTIONS.
The undermentioned officers are promoted to the ranks stated, with effect from 1st January, 1923: —
GENERAL DUTIES BRANCH.
Squadron Leaders to be Wing Commanders.
Thomas Gerard HETHERINGTON, C.B.E.


Wing Commander Thomas Gerard HETHERINGTON, C.B.E., is restored to full pay from half-pay. 17th Feb. 1926.


Air Ministry,
1st July, 1930.
ROYAL AIR FORCE.
The undermentioned promotions are made with effect from the 1st July, 1930.
GENERAL DUTIES BRANCH.
Wing Commanders to be Group Captains.
Thomas Gerard HETHERINGTON, C.B.E.

Air Ministry,
2nd April, 1935.
ROYAL AIR FORCE.
Group Captain Thomas Gerard HETHERINGTON, C.B.E., is placed on the retired list on account of ill-health. 31st Mar. 1935.


RESERVE OF AIR FORCE OFFICERS.
ADMINISTRATIVE AND SPECIAL DUTIES BRANCH.
Gp. Capt. T. G. HETHERINGTON, C.B.E., relinquishes his commn. in class CC on cessation of duty, 11th July 1943.

So far I've established no link with No 20 Squadron.

Graeme

[Scott]

According to Tanks, 1914-1918: The Log-book of a ... - Google Book Search, Hetherington commanded No. 20 Squadron, RNAS Armoured Car Division.

[Graeme]

Hi Scott

Closed the loop nicely!

Graeme

[Lorne]

Thank you gentlemen,

Much appreciated. This is most helpful to put a time line to things.

Best regards,
Lorne