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Dave Cheeseman
PostPosted: Fri Jan 09, 2015 6:24 pm 
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Joined: Thu Feb 22, 2007 7:49 pm
Posts: 171
Just got news this evening that Chevalier Jerry Billing passed away. Some on the forum will remember Jerry's legendary Spitfire displays here in North America.
Jerry served in the RAF and RCAF during WWII, flying over 250 combat sorties.
Jerry is the highest houred Spitfire pilot to date.

More info can be found on http://www.jerrybilling.com

This passed summer the Essex Memorial Spitfire committee had a full size MKIV erected in Jerry's home town of Essex painted to replicate ML135 ( The Spitfire Jerry piloted during D Day were he took down a JU88)

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With help from the local EMS Jerry got to see his Spitfire as he was in a care facility.

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Speedy
PostPosted: Fri Jan 09, 2015 6:41 pm 
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Location: Seattle, WA
Terribly sad. What an amazing man. I have kept my correspondence with him from over the years...and now will cherish it just a little bit more.

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daviemax
PostPosted: Fri Jan 09, 2015 6:50 pm 
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Location: Grosse Pointe, Michigan
I saw Jerry perform aerobatics above the Detroit river in 1983. He gave a spectacular demonstration of Spitfire capabilities; among other maneuvers, performing hammerhead stalls and recovering expertly just above the river. It was breathtaking. I'll never forget it.

The Greatest Generation will not be equaled for a long, long time. Here is to the memory of his legacy.

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Dave Homewood
PostPosted: Fri Jan 09, 2015 7:37 pm 
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Location: Cambridge, New Zealand
Rest in Peace.

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DH82EH
PostPosted: Fri Jan 09, 2015 8:52 pm 
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Location: Creemore Ontario Canada
Dave, I can tell by your posts here (Good to see BTW, you've been missed) that you have been quite close to this amazing man.
I'm sorry for your loss. No doubt your life was made much richer for your friendship with Jerry.
I was fortunate enough to see many wonderful displays flown by Jerry in MK923. Magnificent!
May he rest in peace. Thank you for your service, aviator.

Andy
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