Royal Air Force Station
Marham
King's Lynn, Norfolk
June 2, 1940
Dear Mr. Wickenkamp:
I am afraid your son's award of the O.B.E. for gallantry will be somewhat 'bittersweet' news to you, but I am glad that His Majesty has been pleased to approve of the award of this medal as a recognition of a very gallant act on the part of your son. My only regret is that it came through after his decease. you have every reason to be proud of him, this act in deliberately risking his life to save his companions is in keeping with the highest principles of civilized manhood.
The poor little widow of his 2nd pilot is staying with us now - Mrs. Wardlaw. She is trying to start life anew in our Women's Auxiliary Air Force, but the sorrow of her loss lies heavily upon her.
The spirit of these lads, of whom your son was one, is just beyond praise and in my Officers' Mess here. I have some of the 'salt of the earth'. Our empire may thank God for every one such.
Yours Very Sincerely,
Keith
Group Captain
(This is the last letter in the collection. I have enjoyed sharing them with you. I just wish that they ended happier. Thank you for coming along with me on this journey. I hope you enjoyed them.).
This has been such a great series of letters! I was thoroughly invested in what was happening with Estelles. It is so sad that it ended this way. I can't wait to see what you write about next!
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