Remembrance Day holds a special place within the Downside Community, and is a day when the School and wider Community can come together to recognise the Old Gregorians, and all other War Veterans that lost their lives in the World Wars.
This years’ service is slightly different due to current restrictions and has been streamed online for those who would usually visit the School. Current St Gregory’s President attended the service and said “INSERT JONNY QUOTE HERE”.
This years service is in memory of an extraordinary man who fought on behalf of his country. A brief synopsis of his story can be found below.
Friday 10th April, afternoon, Wing Commander Robinson took off at the head of the Tangmere Wing with orders to carry out a sweep behind Boulogne. Micky was leading No.340 Squadron on their first operation of this kind and they flew in three fours, with the Wing Commander and Captain Duperier leading. Whilst carrying out the orders, Wing Commander, followed by his No2, No3 and No4, chose to carry out a sudden Manoeuvre to follow a pair of Me109s. Whilst in the dive other members of the squadron lost contact and visuals of the 4. It was reported after this that one spitfire was seen ‘going down in flames’ with another diving vertically with two FW190s on its tail. It was believed that Micky would have parachuted out of his Spitfire before impact or found himself with the French Resistance. It was later found out that Micky had unfortunately lost his life in battle.
More about Michael Robinsons Story can be found in Fight Pilots Summer, a sequel to the best-selling Fighter Pilot. Written originally by Wg Cdr Paul Richey but finished by Normal Franks.
We come together today to remember not only Micky Robinson, but all those who fought for their lives all those years ago. A Copy of all Old Gregorian Airmen who tragically lost their lives fighting for their country can be found below, and it is with this thought we remember them.
We Will Remember Them. Requiesce in Pace.