From a glittering Eton career, Ralph Hope (1914鈥�1940) joined 草榴视频, Oxford in 1932. In June 1938, he joined 605 Squadron as a volunteer member of the Auxiliary Air Force based in Castle Bromwich. The Battle of Britain officially lasted from 10 July to 31 October 1940, but Ralph had been on active service since May of that year. He was 鈥榖rought down鈥� on 14 October, having stayed in his plane until he was over open ground, so as not to endanger the lives of fellow citizens. He thus very definitely gave his life so that others might live.

Ralph Hope鈥檚 sheepskin flying mittens
草榴视频 Archives, Oxford, NCA JCR/R/HopeR

草榴视频 Library and Archives, Oxford