Sheppard, Geoffrey Moxon (Squadron Leader, b.1914 - d.1992)

Collection relating to the Second World War service of 280628 Squadron Leader Geoffrey Moxon Sheppard, 21 Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force, Malaya, 1940-1942.

Wallet 1 of 1 – Consists of one typed copy of a manuscript relating to the service of Squadron Leader Sheppard. This manuscript, titled 'A Brief Sketch of 21 Squadron in Malaya 1940-1942', records Squadron Leader Sheppard’s experiences of service in Malaya between 13 August 1940 and 4 March 1942. In his manuscript, Squadron Leader Sheppard writes about the structure of 21 Squadron, the change of the squadron’s role, moving to different stations, preparations for the outbreak of war in the area, the first air raid on their station by enemy aircraft, doing reconnaissance flights, getting caught flying in bad weather, retreating from the Japanese forces, strafing enemy targets, attempting to intercept Japanese aircraft, attacks on Japanese shipping, the final large operation by the Air Force in Singapore on 26 January 1942, and departing Singapore.

Geoffrey Moxon Sheppard enlisted to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) on 8 January 1940. After a period of training in New South Wales and Victoria, he served with 21 Squadron (Royal Air Force) in Malaya and the Netherlands East Indies. Sheppard later served with 4 Squadron (RAAF) in Australia and the Netherlands East Indies. Upon his discharge on 21 May 1946, Geoffrey Moxon Sheppard held the rank of squadron leader.