A scarce Great War M.B.E., inter-War ‘Sudan 1926’ A.F.C. group of eight awarded to Group Captain R L. Crofton, Royal Air Force, late Northumberland Fusiliers

The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, M.B.E. (Military) Member’s 1st type breast badge, silver, hallmarks for London 1918; Air Force Cross, G.V.R., unnamed as issued; 1914-15 Star (2. Lieut. R. L. Crofton. North’d Fus.); British War and Victory Medals (Capt. R. L. Crofton. R.A.F.); 1939-45 Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf, nearly very fine and better (8) £1,800-£2,200

M.B.E. London Gazette 3 June 1919.

A.F.C. London Gazette 15 February 1927:
‘In recognition of valuable flying services rendered in the Sudan and in connection with the operations in the Nuba Mountains province of the Sudan, 1926.’

M.I.D. London Gazette 11 July 1940.

Richard Llewellyn Crofton was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the Northumberland Fusiliers on 25 January 1915, and served with the 8th Battalion during the Great War on the Western Front. Transferring to the Royal Flying Corps, and later to the Royal Air Force, for his services during the Great War he was created a Member of the Order of the British Empire in the 1919 Birthday Honours’ List.

Promoted Flight Lieutenant on 1 January 1924, during the inter-War years Crofton served with the R.A.F. Garrison in the Sudan, commanding the Detached Flight at Khartoum- his main duties were survey work, particularly in the areas between the White Nile and the Wau, Tonj, and Rumbek; co-operation with the Sudan Defence Force; provide air transport for officials at Khartoum to allow them to visit the various District Governors, and equally to allow the District Governors to cover their areas more efficiently; and to educate the native population in the power of aircraft.

Crofton’s biggest challenge whilst in the Sudan was persuading the various officials to use aircraft as a means of transport- prior to his arrival all travel was done by means of camel, and the officials were reluctant to give up the large ‘out of office’ allowances and opportunities for shooting that came with this slower form of transport! For his services in the Sudan, in particular in connection with the operations in the Nuba Mountains province in 1926, he was awarded the Air Force Cross.

Returning to the U.K. Crofton was promoted Squadron Leader on 1 August 1933; Wing Commander on 1 October 1937; and temporary Group Captain on 1 December 1940. He retired on 22 March 1945, retaining the rank of Group Captain.