Fire Buffs promote the general welfare of the fire and rescue service and protect its heritage and history. Famous Fire Buffs through the years include Edward VII, who maintained a kit at a London fire station.

August 29, 2008

SEPT. 18, 1940

Photo: Imperial War Museum
AFS recruits

During the Battle of Britain, Sept. 18, 1940 was a costly day for auxiliary fire crews on duty in London's famed Soho district.

German raiders pounded the city for 10 consecutive hours with especially lethal results in Soho.

Nine members of the Auxiliary Fire Service died:
  • Auxiliary Fireman Myer Wand - at Rathbone Place
  • Auxiliary Fireman Robert George - at Rathbone Place
  • Leading Auxiliary Fireman George Bowen - at Rathbone Place
  • Auxiliary Fireman Arthur Batchelor - at Rathbone Place
  • Auxiliary Fireman Benjamin Mansbridge - at Rathbone Place
  • Leading Auxiliary Fireman Jack Bathie - at Rathbone Place
  • Auxiliary Fireman George Abrahart - at Rathbone Place
  • Auxiliary Fireman Harold Gillard - at Oxford Street
  • Auxiliary Fireman Donald Mackenzie - at Oxford Street
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