William Vernon Crawford-Compton was born in Invercargill, New Zealand, and joined the RAF in 1939. He began his career as a fighter pilot in early 1941 as a sergeant in the 603rd Squadron, equipped with Spitfire Mk V fighters. In May 1941, he was transferred to the 485th Squadron.
Early Victories and Injury
The “Kiwi,” a nickname for New Zealanders in the British armed forces, achieved his first victory on October 13, 1941, over France, downing a Bf.109F. By the end of April 1942, Crawford-Compton’s tally reached six confirmed victories and one probable.
Subsequently, the ace’s combat duties were temporarily interrupted due to an injury sustained during a forced landing, which was a result of combat damage. In August 1942, Crawford-Compton was appointed commander of the 611th Squadron, which flew Spitfire Mk IXs.
Leadership and Continued Service
In June 1943, after being promoted to Wing Commander, Crawford-Compton took command of the Hornchurch air wing. In October, the ace was sent to the USA to impart his combat experience to young fighter pilots.
Upon his return to England, Crawford-Compton became commander of the 145th Wing, also equipped with Spitfire Mk IXs. In early 1945, the New Zealander was recalled to staff work in the 11th Group; it was in this capacity that the “Kiwi” received news of Germany’s defeat.
Legacy and Final Rank
Crawford-Compton shot down at least twenty aircraft (14 of them in a Spitfire Mk IX), and one victory was credited as “probable.” Additionally, his victory record includes one aircraft shot down in group aerial battles. After the war, he continued to serve in the RAF, rising to the rank of Air Vice Marshal.