An interview with former Spitfire and Kittyhawk pilot Flight Lieutenant Edward Livingston Lyell ‘Ted’ Sly. DFC, MID.
When war came Ted joined the 7th Light Horse but soon was persuaded to join the RAAF.
After training in Rhodesia he went to England part of 452 Squadron commanded by famous Aussie ace, Keith ‘Bluey’ Truscott.
Next came the Middle East where he flew 22 operational sorties in Kittyhawks with 450 Squadron, RAAF.
Not long after Ted was on the move again, this time with 92 East India Squadron that formed the first spitfire wing with the 8th Army in the Western Desert. Ted also played a part in the El Alamein battle.
After time in Malta and instructor at an OTU in Egypt Ted was sent back to Australia to help in the Pacific War. There he met up with old mate Bobby Gibbes in Darwin flying Spitfire’s with 457 Squadron RAAF, before heading North to Morotai for the final actions of World War 2.
This vision was filmed at the 2004 Albury Airshow, and was an honour and privilege to meet Ted, and for his time to chat, but most of all, it was rewarding to say thanks to a man, like many who fought for our freedom and that of Australia.
Lest We Forget.