His early life

Born at 12 Market Square, Higham Ferrers, he was raised by his stepfather, Sir Kenneth Murchison, a Conservative Member of Parliament. Crew received his education at Felsted School and Downing College, Cambridge, where he earned a Master of Arts in Anthropology and English Literature. While at Cambridge, he joined the University Air Squadron, which marked the beginning of his aviation career.

His war-time career

In November 1939, Crew commenced full-time service with the RAF Volunteer Reserve. He underwent initial training at No. 3 Training Wing in Hastings, followed by flight training at the RAF College Flying Training School in Cranwell. Upon completing his training, he converted to flying Bristol Blenheim aircraft and was posted to No. 604 (County of Middlesex) Squadron in July 1940, during the height of the Battle of Britain. The squadron initially operated Blenheim night fighters equipped with early airborne radar systems, which were soon replaced by the more advanced Bristol Beaufighter.

Crews first confirmed aerial victory occurred on the night of 4/5 April 1941, when he and his radar operator, Sergeant Norman H. Guthrie, destroyed a Heinkel He 111 bomber, this success was followed by several others, including the destruction of additional He 111 and Junkers Ju 88s. By July 1941, Crew had achieved four confirmed kills and damaged several other enemy aircraft, earning him the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) for his outstanding ability and determination in engaging the enemy.

Continuing his exemplary service, Crew was awarded a Bar to his DFC in June 1942 after accumulating a total of eight night victories. His leadership and skill were further recognised with his appointment as Flight Commander in May 1942. In this role, he continued to demonstrate exceptional prowess in night operations, contributing significantly to the RAF’s defensive efforts.

In 1943, Crew was promoted to commanding officer of No. 96 Squadron, initially flying Beaufighters before converting to de Havilland Mosquitoes. Under his command, the squadron played a crucial role during the V-1 flying bomb offensive in 1944. Between June and September of that year, No. 96 Squadron was credited with destroying 181 V-1 flying bombs, with Crew personally accounting for 31 of these, he also downed 15 enemy aircraft making him a triple ace. His effective tactics and leadership during this period earned him the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) in September 1944.

After World War II

After the war, Crew continued his service with the RAF in various capacities. From 1948 to 1950, he commanded No. 45 Squadron during the Malayan Emergency, leading anti-insurgency operations with Bristol Beaufighters. His leadership during this campaign was recognized with a Bar to his DSO in March 1950. He also held several key positions, including secondment to the Royal Canadian Air Force, command of RAF Bruggen in Germany, and leadership of Air Forces Borneo during the Indonesia Malaysia confrontation. In 1973, upon his retirement, he was appointed a Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB) for his distinguished service.

Following his retirement from the RAF, Crew contributed to the Planning Inspectorate at the Department of the Environment, utilizing his extensive knowledge of airfields. He also served in local government as a member of the Cotswold District Council until his final retirement in 1996. Air Vice Marshal Edward Crew passed away on 18 August 2002 in Cirencester, Gloucestershire, leaving behind a legacy of exemplary military service and dedication to his country.