Date: 17th June 1943.
Unit: No. 421 (RCAF) Squadron.
Type: Spitfire IX.
Serial: LZ996
Coded: AU -
Location: St. Omer, France.
Pilot: Squadron Leader, Phillip, Leslie, Irving, Archer. R.C.A.F. D.F.C. J/3508. Age 27. Killed.
REASON FOR LOSS:
Sqd/Ld Phillip Archer was shot down and killed on the morning of 17th June 1943, in combat with FW190s of JG/26 during a Rodeo in the area of St. Omer, a second aircraft from his unit 421 sqdn, Spitfire IX BS319, piloted by F/O J E McNamara was also shot down and he was also killed. Sqd/Ld Archer was possibly on his last sortie as CO of 402 sqdn before taking over 421 sqdn.
He had been wounded in action on two occasions while flying with 92 Sqdn, on the 9th July 1941 while flying a Sweep in Spitfire IIa R7195, he was wounded and the aircraft was damaged. He was soon back in action and on the 21st August 1941 during another Sweep flying Spitfire Vb W3330 he was slightly wounded in the legs during combat. (Aircraft Cat 2 and returned to service.) Phillip was credited with six confirmed aerial victories.
We are currently seeking any living relatives for this airman as we have further information for them from an eye witness.
Phillip with his Spitfire showing his personal Archer art work.
BURIAL DETAILS:
Squadron Leader, Phillip, Leslie, Irving, Archer. R.C.A.F. D.F.C. Longuenesse (St. Omer) Souvenir Cemetery, Pas de Calais, France. lot 8. Row A. Grave 1.
Son of Frederick Leslie and Millicent Beryl Archer, of Hastings St. Michael, Barbados. R Sc.
