John was the second son of Corporal Frank Hannaford and his wife Mabel (nee Williams).
| Unit or location | Role | Posted from | until |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brixham Patrol | Patrol member | 07 Jun 1940 | 14 Aug 1943 |
Tractor driver.
Known by his middle name John or his nickname “Dickie”, he was a farm worker and as an experienced tractor driver was a valuable employee. He had to use threats and deception before eventually being allowed to join the RAF as a rear gunner. John was discharged from Auxiliary Units 14th August 1943.
Shot down in France he was able to make his way back home, returning the evening before his wedding on 23rd December 1944 to Cecilia "Cissy" Dowell
John was the best shot in the Patrol and was entered into a shooting competition against the other Patrols in Group 4. It is claimed that he won.
Great friends with John Baker they would often try to start a fight in one of the many local pubs without actually getting involved themselves. Sneaking away before a punch was thrown or landed. This was far more enjoyable when the Allied forces based nearby got involved.
Post war he returned to a lifetime of farming. For many years he was a tenant farmer for Buckfast Abbey.
TNA ref WO199/3391
1939 Register
Cyril "Bill" Hannaford and Auxilier John Baker