Trafford

Born during the September quarter 1910 in the Penzance R.D. - ref: 5c/407,
the son of John & Winifred Gladys Rich (nee Wells).

Metro-Vic's RoH Book - Joined the Metro-Vicker's Company as a School
Apprentice in October 1937.  Joined the RAFVR in March 1940 later
commissioned promoted to the rank of Flying Officer and posted to North
Africa.  Killed in an aircraft accident in North Africa in September 1942. 
 [I don't think so - North Africa is rather a long way away from Madagascar
???]

RAF Squadrons states that from July 1942 until June 1945, 209 Sqn was
flying Catalina Mk IIA aircraft from Kisuma, (Kenya);  Paminzi, (Madagascar
Islands);  Diego Suarez, (North Madagascar);  Congella, (Durban, South
Africa);  Tulear, (Southern Madagascar);  Port Victoria,  (Seyshelles); 
Aden, Masirah (Island off Saudi Arabia).

In March 1942 the squadron moved to East Africa, from where it flew patrols
over the Indian Ocean, using bases in South Africa, Oman and on Madagascar
and the Seychelles to extend its range.

The following is taken from the personal daily war diary of his Commanding
Officer at the main base in Madagascar.  The facts are a summary of the
signal sent from the Duty Captain at Pamanzi which is published verbatim.

"He died at the RAF base at the tiny island of Pamanzi, north of Madagascar
when his aircraft Catalina signal code VA71 crashed on take off at 04:21
hrs on a live sortie on 8th September 1942.   All on board died.   All
bodies were recovered from the water."

M.I. - "His life a Beautiful Memory, His Absence a Silent Grief.   Father
and Mother".