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Paul-Franes

A veteran interview with

Paul Farnes

Paul Farnes is one of the surviving pilots from the Battle of Britain. He was awarded 8 kills and a DFM.

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About Paul Farnes

In this honest interview, Paul talks candidly about his personal experiences of flying for the RAF. Upon Chamberlain’s announcement of war, Paul remembers not feelings of fear or dread, but rather somewhat of a celebration, as he recalls commemorating the occasion by opening a ‘decent bottle of wine’. John would then go on to join the RAF where his first real engagement with the enemy was during the Battle of Britain where he fought with 501 squadron against the Germany’s Luftwaffe. Interestingly, Paul remarks that he actually enjoyed being a part of the Battle of Britain, although it’s clear he felt sorry for the other pilots flying the Fairey Battles. During this interview, Paul reflects on his time serving the RAF, he reminisces about some of the friendships he made and unfortunately, the death he faced at every corner. John emerged from the Battle of Britain a new man, he was awarded 8 kills, 2 probable’s and 11 damaged, yet despite this, Paul remains modest about his achievements. After his time with the 501, Paul would move on to serve with the 229 where he spent 3 years out in the Middle East where he was not permitted to return home once. He later tells his scary and exhilarating story fighting in Malta where he barely survived his encounter with the Axis forces.

Credits

Interviewed by:
Martin Bisiker
Reviewed by:
Charlie Akhlaq

Transcripts:
Please note that transcripts and closed captions in the video player are automatically generated by Vimeo.

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Home | Veterans | Paul Farnes

A veteran interview with

Paul Farnes

Paul-Franes

Paul Farnes is one of the surviving pilots from the Battle of Britain. He was awarded 8 kills and a DFM.

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Cite this interview:

MLA Style:
Farnes, Paul. A Veteran Interview with Paul Farnes. Interview by Martin Bisiker. Legasee, n.d. https://www.legasee.org.uk/veteran/paul-farnes/. Accessed 13 Jun. 2026.
APA Style:
Farnes, P. (n.d.). A Veteran Interview with Paul Farnes [Interview by Martin Bisiker]. Legasee. Retrieved June 13, 2026, from https://www.legasee.org.uk/veteran/paul-farnes/
Chicago Style:
Farnes, Paul. n.d.. A Veteran Interview with Paul Farnes. Interview by Martin Bisiker. Legasee. Accessed June 13, 2026. https://www.legasee.org.uk/veteran/paul-farnes/
Harvard Style:
Farnes, P. (n.d.). A Veteran Interview with Paul Farnes. [Interviewed by Martin Bisiker]. Legasee. Available at https://www.legasee.org.uk/veteran/paul-farnes/ (Accessed: 13 June 2026)
Vancouver Style:
Farnes, P. A Veteran Interview with Paul Farnes [Internet]. Interview by M. Bisiker. Legasee; n.d. [cited 2026 Jun 13]. Available from: https://www.legasee.org.uk/veteran/paul-farnes/
An interview with

Alan Hewett

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An interview with

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Terence Kane’s fighter pilot career in the RAF was marked by courage and survival against incredible odds. Inspired by his brother’s love of flying, Terry signed up for a short service commission just after turning seventeen, and was fortunate to survive his initial training. In 1940 he found himself flying Spitfires with 234 Squadron during the Battle of Britain. Hit by enemy fire he was forced to ditch his damaged plane in the English Channel. At just 19, Terry was one of the few Battle of Britain pilots to be captured by the Germans and became a prisoner of war. Taken to Oflag 9A in Spangenburg, Terry’s life became a mix of hardship and resilience. Amid strict conditions, he found small ways to endure, including playing makeshift golf to pass the time. He eventually reunited with his brother in the camp before being forced on a gruelling march away from advancing Russian forces. On May 1st, Terry’s group was liberated after a tense encounter. Reflecting on his wartime experiences, Terry’s story is a testament to survival, resilience, and the indomitable British spirit.
Service:
Interviewed by:
Martin Bisiker