Dowding Collection

Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding, WW2
Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding during WW2 - he was the builder and Commander-in-Chief of Fighter Command from 1936 to November 1940 (until the end of the Battle of Britain). Date: 1941

Fifth Course, Central Flying School, Upavon, January-April 1914
Group photograph of the students and instructors of the CFS at Upavon

Lascelles Wedding
GERALD DAVID LASCELLES Pictured with his new wife, Angela Dowding following their wedding at St. Margaret s, Westminster in 1952

Royals / Lascelles Wedding
Assorted members of the royal family attending the marriage of Gerald Lascelles & Angela Dowding at St. Margaret s. Prince Philip on the right and Princess Margaret centre. Date: 23 July 1952

Lascelles Royal Wedding
GERALD DAVID LASCELLES on his marriage to Angela Dowding at St. Margarets Church, Westminster. Lascelles was younger son of the Princess Royal

The School, Horton, Chipping Sodbury, England
The School, Horton, Chipping Sodbury, near Bristol, Bristol County, England. Taken by Murray Dowding. Date: 1910s

Uxbridge aerodrome prior to an air exercise c 1937
Uxbridge aerodrome prior to an air exercise. c.1937. From left: Sir John Steele, Lt Col Muirhead, Undersecretary for Air; Sir Hugh Dowding, Air Officer Commanding in Chief and Lord Swinton

Lascelles Royal Wedding
GERALD DAVID LASCELLES, younger son of the Princess Royal with his new wife, the former Angela Dowding, after their marriage at St. Margarets in 1953. Date: 1924 -

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Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding was a key figure in World War II, known for his leadership and strategic brilliance. Before the war, he honed his skills at the Central Flying School during the Fifth Course in Upavon from January to April 1914. His expertise would later prove invaluable as he led Britain's defense against German air attacks. Dowding's contributions extended beyond his tactical prowess. He played a crucial role in the development of the Supermarine Spitfire 1/I, an iconic fighter aircraft that helped turn the tide of battle during the Battle of Britain. Amidst his military achievements, it also found time for personal milestones. The Lascelles Wedding marked a joyous occasion where royalty and nobility came together to celebrate love and unity. It was a testament to Dowding's ability to balance duty with personal happiness. Education played an important part in shaping Dowding's career. The School in Horton, Chipping Sodbury provided him with a solid foundation before he embarked on his remarkable journey through aviation history. The Uxbridge aerodrome holds significance as it served as a training ground for pilots prior to air exercises around 1937. This period allowed Dowding to refine his skills further and prepare himself for future challenges. In summary, Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding left an indelible mark on history through his leadership during World War II and contributions towards aviation advancements like the Spitfire aircraft. Despite being involved in significant events such as royal weddings and training exercises at Uxbridge aerodrome, it is ultimately his strategic genius that continues to be remembered today.