FSgt Peter Lewis Kenner

Peter Lewis Kenner, born on September 7th 1919, was the son of Thomas William and Gladys Kenner. He received his education at Brentwood School before pursuing Engineering at Queen Mary College, London. While he was studying there, Kenner became a member of the London University Air Squadron. He was commissioned in the RAFVR (Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve) in June 1939.

Called up on September 1st 1939, Kenner completed his training and arrived at 5 OTU (Operational Training Unit), Aston Down, on June 23, 1940. Following his training, he converted to Defiants and joined 264 Squadron stationed at Kirton-in-Lindsey in mid-August.

On August 21st 1940, the squadron moved to Hornchurch. Tragically, during combat with Me109s over Thanet on the 28th August, Kenner's Defiant, L7026, was shot down. Both Kenner and his gunner, Charled Edward Johnson, were killed in the crash at Silliboume Farm, Hinxhill.

Interestingly, Kenner had known Johnson at Brentwood School. At the time of his death, Kenner was 21 years old. He is buried at London Road Cemetery, Brentwood. Sadly, his brother also lost his life in action with the RAF in Egypt in 1941.