Captain Charles Heater, 55 Sqdn RAF;11th Aero Sqdn

23 April 2003, 04:15 AM

I recently came across an article which had appeared in "Over the Front", vol 3 : no 3 in 1988, *concerning a letter from Capt. Heater to the article's author detailing his military career.

The author was Stephen D Skinner. *Does anyone have a contact e-mail as I would really like to get in touch with him.

My interest is that during his service with 55 Sqdn, Captain Heater's Observer was a relative of mine - Sgt Allan - whose own military service I am researching. *It would be great if there were any photos of the two of them together, of which I could perhaps obtain a copy.

Kind regards,

Derek

ONEALM · 23 April 2003, 06:16 AM

Derek -

If you haven't alrady done so, get a copy of Keith Rennles "Independant Force". It's a very well done, day-by-day accounting of the IF activities. There is a decent photo of Heater in the book, I do not recall if there was a photo of Sgt. Allan.

I contacted Mr Rennles about the book since there were 4 NJ natievs in the unit at one time or another and he was very helpful. You might consider speaking with him about Sgt. Allan.

Also, if you have access to the Gorrell History of the USAS, there is a section called the "Boal Report" which has accounts of the US members of the IF (and other RFC/RAF formations) which may be helpful to you. If you do have have access, drop me a note off line and I will photocopy the Heater section(s) and send them snail mail.

Keep at it,
Mike

Rick · 23 April 2003, 06:31 AM

Quote:

The author was Stephen D Skinner. *Does anyone have a contact e-mail as I would really like to get in touch with him.

He is our very own Stephen here on the Aerodrome Forum. Look for the race car icon!

R.

stephen · 24 April 2003, 06:54 AM

Stephen here, reporting for duty!

Yes, I'm guilty as charged and will help anyway I can. Charlie and I never met, but I considered him a good friend and we corresponded regulary for several years. We sent photos back and forth, scads of letters and I still have an entire file on him which I cherish very much. I can tell you more via email, unless someone else here is following this thread and would prefer it public.