Original WW2 RAF MK IVB Flying Goggles - Attributed Edwardes-Jones 213 / 17 SQDN

An original pair of Royal Air Force MK IVB Flying Goggles as used during the Second World War which belonged to John Humphrey Edwardes-Jones who was the first RAF pilot to fly the Spitfire.

John Humphrey Edwardes-Jones was one of the most important test pilots in the early history of the Spitfire and subsequently became a highly experienced wartime fighter commander. Having joined the RAF in 1925, he became a test pilot with the Aircraft and Armament Experimental Establishment at Martlesham Heath and on 26 May 1936 made the first official RAF test flight of the prototype Spitfire K5054. His highly favourable assessment of the aircraft was instrumental in its subsequent adoption by the RAF, with an initial order for 310 aircraft being placed shortly afterwards.

In May 1937 Edwardes-Jones took command of No.213 Squadron, which by the outbreak of the Second World War was equipped with Hawker Hurricanes. He remained its commanding officer throughout the opening stages of the war and led the squadron through some of the most important fighter operations of 1939 and 1940. The squadron undertook numerous sea patrols over convoys and Edwardes-Jones personally led many of its night operations. During the Battle of France and the evacuation from Dunkirk, 213 Squadron was heavily engaged in operations over France and the Channel. On 19 May 1940, during the height of the fighting, Edwardes-Jones temporarily took command of No.17 Squadron and personally flew a Hurricane on operations east of Cambrai. During the engagement his aircraft was hit by cannon fire from Bf 109 fighters, but he succeeded in landing safely at Norrent-Fontes. He continued to lead 213 Squadron through the campaign and remained with the unit until June 1940.

The official citation for his Distinguished Flying Cross records that under his command No.213 Squadron had destroyed 23 enemy aircraft confirmed and a further 14 unconfirmed. The citation specifically praises his outstanding leadership and flying ability, noting that he had personally taken part in numerous convoy patrols and consistently led the squadron in night operations. He was awarded the DFC in recognition of his leadership and operational service during this period. He subsequently commanded No.6 Operational Training Unit and then Nos.56, 60 and 58 OTUs, where he played an important role in training fighter pilots, before returning to operational command later in the war. His subsequent service included command of the Exeter Sector, No.323 Wing in North Africa and No.210 Group, before finishing the war as Deputy Director of Operations at Mediterranean Allied Air Forces headquarters.

These goggles are indicative of the Battle of Britain and saw widespread issue with aircrews throughout 1940 and 1941. Coming into issue alongside the MK VI and the MKVIA in June 1940, these goggles feature two large sprung loops which are designed to fit over the headphone receiver donuts of the B-Type Helmet are held together at the rear with a leather and enclosed spring strap. The rear leather strap still bears the air ministry markings including the correct stores code 22C/167. The Air Ministry marking is also present as is the  designation of 'Goggles MK IVB'. The maker's initials of 'W.S & S Ltd' are also present.

The goggles are in used condition with the frames retaining the vast majority of their original finish. The ear loops are good as is the rear strap.mAs is often the case with this pattern of goggles the rear rubber face cushions have deteriorated and the lenses show some signs of delamination. The leather face cushions are intact but show signs of age and are far from perfect. Overall however they display extremely well and would look excellent atop a B-type helmet!

These goggles are not to be confused with other examples on the market which feature various reproduction parts. These are an authentic untouched example which would make a fine addition to any aviation collection. Not only that but they are attributed to a pilot who played a key role in the Spitfire story and saw action in the Battle for France in 1940. 

This is a vintage item which is 'sold as seen'