Thomas George Mogridge – Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, 2730 Squadron, R.A.F. Regiment

Leading Aircraftman Thomas George Mogridge – Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, 2730 Squadron, R.A.F. Regiment

Early Life and Family Background

Thomas George Mogridge was born in 1911 in Swansea, the son of Charles Mogridge and Clara Kneath, who married in 1899.

1921 Census

By the time of the 1921 Census, the family were living at 91 Gladysbury Street, Hafod, where Charles, aged 44, worked as a Fuel Worker Shipper for the Graigola Merthyr Company, and Clara, aged 38, managed the household. Their children formed a large and busy family: William J., aged 21, was employed as a Blacksmith’s Striker with Baldwins Ltd.; Charles H., aged 17, worked as a Fuel Worker Labourer with Graigola Merthyr; and the younger children—Lillian, aged 12, Thomas, aged 8, and Evelyn, aged 6—were all still attending school.

1939 Register

Adult Life and Civilian Occupation

By the time of the 1939 Register, Thomas was living at 91 Aberdyberthi Street, Hafod, with his wife Sarah Anne Mogridge, who undertook household duties. Thomas was employed as a Patent Fuel Worker, and during the early years of the war he also served in A.R.P. duties as an Ambulance Driver, reflecting his willingness to contribute to civil defence during the Swansea Blitz period.

Service with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve – 2730 Squadron, R.A.F. Regiment

Role and Duties of 2730 Squadron

2730 Squadron was one of the wartime units raised to meet the growing need for airfield defence across southern England, and although detailed squadron‑level records are limited—as is common with RAF Regiment formations—their operational role is well understood from the duties carried out by similar units during the same period. By 1943, the squadron was responsible for defending RAF stations along the south coast, manning defensive gun positions, protecting aircraft dispersal areas and fuel stores, guarding radar and technical sites, providing rapid‑response teams for airfield emergencies, and supporting anti‑aircraft defence during periods of Luftwaffe activity. Personnel such as Leading Aircraftman Thomas George Mogridge would have been trained to operate defensive weapons, maintain readiness during night alerts, and respond swiftly to incidents both on and around the airfield, working in an environment where vigilance, technical skill, and physical courage were essential.

Hazards and Operational Risks

Although not a front‑line combat unit, the RAF Regiment faced significant dangers. Their duties involved operating heavy defensive guns, handling ammunition, working close to aircraft and fuel installations, and responding to airfield emergencies. Accidents were not uncommon, especially during live‑fire exercises, weapon maintenance, or rapid mobilisation during air‑raid alerts. The circumstances of Thomas’s death reflect the reality that RAF Regiment personnel frequently faced risks inherent in their defensive role.

2730 Squadron in Early 1943

During the early months of 1943, the south coast remained an area of strategic importance. Although large‑scale Luftwaffe raids had diminished, sporadic attacks, reconnaissance flights, and nuisance raids continued. Airfields remained on alert, and RAF Regiment squadrons maintained full defensive readiness. It was within this environment—one of constant vigilance, demanding duties, and ever‑present risk—that Leading Aircraftman Mogridge served with 2730 Squadron.

Worthing Herald

Accident and Inquest – February 1943

Thomas’s death was reported in the Worthing Herald on 26 February 1943. The article described an inquest held at a south‑coast town, where a verdict of “Misadventure” was returned. Thomas, aged 31, had died in hospital from haemorrhage following an accident sustained while on duty as a gunner.

Sergeant Robert Donald Hopkins, who was with Thomas shortly before he died, gave moving evidence. He stated that Thomas, fully aware of his condition, took his hand and said quietly:

“There’s nobody to blame.”

Thomas George Mogridge
Oystermouth Cemetery, Mumbles
credit - findagrave

These final words, spoken with calmness and generosity, reflect a man who met his last moments with dignity, refusing to attribute fault and showing the quiet courage often found among servicemen performing dangerous duties far from home.

Burial at Oystermouth Cemetery

Thomas’s body was brought home to Swansea, where Leading Aircraftman Thomas George Mogridge was laid to rest at Oystermouth Cemetery, joining the many local servicemen who lost their lives during the Second World War.