Branse Arthur Burbridge and Bill Skelton: Clergyman Pacifist WW2 Ace and WSO

Became famous as “The Nighthawks” 21 kills in a Mosquito

When WW2 started, Arthur was already working in the Wesleyan church and was a conscientious objector. He later changed his mind and joined the RAF becoming a night fighter pilot. He had little success until meeting Bill Skelton, his weapons officer and being transferred to the mostly wooden Mosquito fighter. That’s when the two, who were devout Christians and interested in the clergy, began to rack up an impressive score of German aircraft shot down. This included 3 guided missile V-1 bombs they chased down and destroyed. Arthur always aimed his guns at the wings of the German aircraft not wanting to outright kill anyone. Both he and Bill studied theology after the war and went on to become clergymen. Arthur died in 2013 of dementia and his family had to sell his medals to support him in his last days due to medical costs. He was 95 at the time of his death.

Men of Valor do not compromise their convictions. Valor is in you. Set it free.