Ron Houghton, a former Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) pilot, reminisces about his time serving in Bomber Command during World War II. Alongside his brother, Keith, who served as a wireless operator, Houghton flew Halifax bombers with No 102 Squadron RAF in missions over enemy territory, including France, Holland, Germany, and Belgium. He received a Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) for his courage, fortitude, and devotion to duty during a mission over Germany that required manual bomb releases without protective fighter cover. Houghton later transferred to Fighter Command, where he flew Spitfires and Hurricanes in training exercises to prepare bomber crews for combat.
Houghton’s experiences flying Halifax bombers were filled with intense moments, such as a nighttime encounter with a German aircraft that nearly took out their fuel tank. The close-knit crew, known as “Joe’s Flying Circus,” stuck together through many missions and reunions. Despite losing two gunners, one killed in action and the other uncontactable in South Africa, Houghton maintained friendships with his crewmates for years after the war ended. His dedication to his crew and their shared memories remained strong, even decades later.
After the war, Houghton continued his career in aviation, working for Qantas and later attaining a Ph.D. in aeronautical engineering from Sydney University. He flew with world champion air racer Matt Hall and aerobatics pilot Emma McDonald, fulfilling a lifelong dream of participating in an aerobatic flight. Houghton also served as president of the Bomber Command Association of Australia and held onto mementos from his time in service, including his original logbook, leather gloves, and RAAF wings.
In 2021, Houghton, then 96, led a service at the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park commemorating the RAAF Centenary with fellow RAAF veteran Tony Adams. He reflected on the camaraderie and bonds forged during his time in Bomber Command, expressing a sense of duty and gratitude for the recognition of his service. Houghton’s dedication to his crew, his country, and his profession as a pilot left a lasting legacy, as he continued to honor the memory of those who served alongside him in defense of their homeland.
Throughout his later years, Houghton remained active in the aviation community, advocating for the recognition of Bomber Command’s contributions to the D-Day efforts and sharing his experiences with younger generations. His marriage to Lois Duval Dickinson in 1949 resulted in two daughters, Janice and Lynley, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, who carry on his legacy of service and dedication to the RAAF. Houghton’s remarkable career and enduring commitment to his comrades exemplify the courage and sacrifice of those who served in Bomber Command during a pivotal period in history.
