Andrew McDowall | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Born | 26 June 1913 Kirkinner, Wigtownshire, Scotland |
| Died | 26 November 1981 Derby, England |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service | Royal Air Force |
| Rank | Wing Commander |
| Commands | No. 616 Squadron (1944–1945) No. 232 Squadron (1942) |
| Battles / wars | Second World War |
| Awards | Air Force Cross Distinguished Flying Medal & Bar Mention in Despatches (2) |
Andrew McDowall AFC, DFM & Bar (26 June 1913–26 November 1981) was a British flying ace with the Royal Air Force (RAF) during the Second World War. He was credited with having destroyed at least thirteen German aircraft.
Born in the Scottish town of Kirkinner, McDowall joined the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve prior to the Second World War. Called up for service on the outbreak of hostilities, he completed his training and was posted to No. 602 Squadron. He flew extensively with the squadron during the Battle of Britain, destroying a number of German aircraft and being awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal twice. After a period off operations as an instructor, he commanded No. 232 Squadron during the Dieppe Raid. He was later a test pilot for the Gloster Aircraft Company, working on the development of the Gloster Meteor jet fighter. From July 1944 to May 1945, he commanded the RAF's first jet fighter squadron. Returning to civilian life after the war, he worked for Gloster as a test pilot and was awarded the Air Force Cross for this work. He died in Derby, aged 68.