HORNSEA is to launch this year's Poppy Appeal by commemorating a Second World War hero who lived in the town.
Air Commodore Ronald "Ras" Berry made his reputation as a Battle of Britain fighter pilot flying Spitfires.
In a single day in battle, he shot down three enemy Messerschmitts.
Described as Hull's greatest fighter pilot, he lived the latter years of his life in Hornsea.
To mark his efforts, a plaque will be officially unveiled in the garden at the corner of Willows Drive on Saturday, October 25 – the same day the Poppy Appeal is launched.
Keith Twigg, treasurer of the newly-formed Hornsea branch of the Royal British Legion, said: "He was a true British hero, but very few people know about his incredible efforts."
Mr Berry was born in Hull on May 3, 1917. After attending Hull Technical School he joined the Hull City Council treasurer's department and learned to fly in his spare time with the RAF Volunteer Reserve.
He qualified as a fighter pilot just as the Second World War broke out and joined 603 Spitfire squadron, first based in Scotland. He was later transferred to Hornchurch in Essex.
At the age of just 23 in 1940, he was ordered south as losses in the Battle of Britain mounted.
On August 31, he shot down three Messerschmitts in one sortie, earning himself the nickname "Mighty Atom" throughout the country.
The Royal British Legion has teamed with Hornsea Town Council for the Poppy Appeal project.
Hornsea town councillor Angus Robinson said: "The idea for a memorial came some time ago when we were told that medals of a famous resident of Hornsea were to be auctioned. I had lived in the town for more than 30 years and was never aware of his existence and found that he may not have had anything with which to remember him.
"My views about Air Commodore Berry are very positive. He was one of Churchill's 'few' and, without such people, we were under risk of being invaded.
"I was born during the war and we are indebted to brave people like Ron Berry who should be remembered, either in their city of birth or town of retirement."
The town's Royal British Legion branch is looking for businesses to sell poppies from their premises and volunteers to sell them in Tesco. If you can help the appeal, email Mr Twigg at keithcobble2371@msn.co or call 01964 536995.
