Douglas Bader

THE DOUGLAS BADER FOUNDATION

Group Captain Sir Douglas Bader, CBE, DSO, DFC, FRAeS, DL, became a hero and legend in his own lifetime.

Douglas Bader was born in London in 1910. Douglas won a scholarship to St Edward's School in Oxford. Followed by a place to the RAF College in Cranwell where he captained the Rugby team and was a champion boxer.

Douglas was commissioned as an officer in the Royal Air Force in 1930 but after only 18 months he crashed his aeroplane and became a double amputee caused by “my own fault” in an aeroplane accident in 1931. As a consequence of the accident Douglas was discharged from the RAF. He found work with the Asiatic Petroleum Company. After the outbreak of the Second World War Douglas rejoined the RAF. Douglas was a member of 222 squadron and was promoted to lead 242 squadron. His skill as an aviator and contribution as an outstanding leader and fighter ace during WW2, along with his continuous attempts to escape prisoner of war camp after he was shot down, was immortalised in the book and film 'Reach for the Sky'.

On returning to England Douglas was promoted to group captain. He left the RAF in 1946.

Having suffered a double disfigurement Douglas became an inspiration to disabled and able-bodied alike by demonstrating the ability to “get on with your life”. Post war found him working for Shell, getting his golf handicap down to an extraordinary 2 and fund raising on behalf of many disabled groups and charities.

Douglas was honoured in 1976 with a Knighthood for his contribution and work on behalf of the disabled community.

'A disabled person who fights back is not disabled....but inspired'

It is this maxim that our charitable foundation established in Douglas's name immediately following his death in 1982, seeks to replicate and develop.

The Douglas Bader Foundation was formed by family and friends, many of whom had flown side by side with Douglas during World War 2.