Leys, Keith Ross (Oral history)

Australian NCO served as pilot with 453 (RAAF) Sqdn, RAF in Malaya, 1941-1942

REEL 1 Recollections of operations as pilot with 453 (RAAF) Sqdn, RAF in Malaya, 1941-1942: background to converting from twin engined aircraft pilot to fighter pilot; character of Brewster Buffalo; nature of squadron under RAF control; degree of intelligence available to NCO pilots; daily training routine; contrast in manouverablity of Brewster Buffalo and Mitsubishi A6M2 Zero. REEL 2 Continues: patrolling in Malaya; question of lack of intelligence about Japanese; story of first action against Imperial Japanese Air Force in which he bailed out of damaged aircraft near Kuala Lumpur, 21/12/1941; nature of parachute landing and aid from Chinese family; squadron actions next day; loss of squadron aircraft; opinion of squadron's performance in Malaya. REEL 3 Continues: role of flight commanders; question of time taken to learn tactical lessons against Japanese; reputation of Commonwealth Boomerang; character of Commonwealth Boomerang; status of NCO pilots; further details of characteristics of Brewster Buffalo; chain of command; problems with damage to radial engines; pattern of flying career after service in Malaya.