Royal Air Force St Mawgan today joined the wider community in paying tribute to Alfred ‘Barney’ Barnett, a distinguished Second World War RAF veteran, whose funeral took place at Glynn Valley Crematorium, Bodmin at 1130 hrs.
Aged 104, Barney lived an extraordinary life of service. Enlisting in 1941 as an Air Gunner and later commissioned in 1943, he flew 80 combat sorties over Germany during the Second World War. He went on to serve with the elite Pathfinder Force, responsible for marking targets ahead of the main bomber stream, before later training as a pilot.
Following his commission, Barney served at RAF St Mawgan on four occasions between late 1952 and early 1956, retiring from Service in mid-1959.
Today’s service, officiated by the Station Padre, Squadron Leader Colin O’Dell, was attended by a wide cross-section of the community, including serving personnel, veterans, and Royal Navy and Royal Air Force Air Cadets. Senior station representatives in attendance included Station Commander Wing Commander Gareth Elliott and Station Warrant Officer Warrant Officer Darrel Keane. The large and diverse turnout reflected the deep respect held for Barney and his generation.
In accordance with his wishes, and in the absence of surviving family, close friends entrusted his medals and flying logbooks to RAF St Mawgan. His medals, hat and one of his logbooks were used to dress the coffin, ensuring a fitting and personal tribute. The Royal Air Force will preserve his legacy in line with these wishes.
Alfred ‘Barney’ Barnett embodied the courage, resilience and selfless service of the Second World War generation. Flying 80 combat missions and serving with the Pathfinder Force, his contribution to Bomber Command represents the very best of his generation.
Despite having no surviving family, it was a privilege for the Royal Air Force and the local community to come together to ensure he received a dignified and respectful farewell. RAF St Mawgan remains committed to preserving his legacy for future generations.
RAF St Mawgan Station Commander Wing Commander Gareth Elliott.
