The Association lost one of its most devoted, supportive and friendliest
characters with the passing of Ken Pugh on 16 March 2009 after a short illness. Ken was in great spirits at the last Reunion and was already looking forward to this year’s events.
Ken joined the squadron in Palestine during late 1943 and after a brief spell on Hurricanes, he converted to Spitfires and left for Italy when the Squadron moved to Trigno in March 1944. He flew almost 150 tac recces, sweeps and occasional ground attack operations during the hard slog up Italy. He flew in support of the ground forces attacking Monte Cassino and was with the Squadron when it finally reached Florence. He spoke with great pride and fondness of his time on 208 and this was born out in later years when he rarely missed a Reunion for 60 odd years. He was always at the centre of the 'Spitfire table' and his infectious laugh and bonhomie was unmistakable. He always showed a grea
t interest in the Squadron's activities and enjoyed visits to Honington, Lossiemouth and the wonderful time at Valley when he attended the marvellous Squadron 90th in 2008, which he attended with his son.
No-one who attended the Reunion four years ago will forget his stunning talk about the Squadron’s wartime Spitfire years. In effect, he launched the highly successful ‘Chapter’ talks, which have become a popular feature of the Reunion.
There was never a more devoted member of 208 Squadron and its Association and he is a great loss to us all. Graham Pitchfork represented the Association at a packed Thanksgiving Service held at Upper Slaughter in the Cotswolds where he farmed for so many years.
- Graham Pitchfork
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