476

37127: Squadron Leader Alec Edward Berry, D.F.C.
Parents: Mr. and Mrs. W.J. BERRY of CHRISTCHURCH.

Alec Berry was born at Liversidge, Yorkshire, England, on the
1st April, 1917. He received his secondary education at the
Cathedral Grammar School, Christchurch and later attended night
classes at Canterbury College, where he reached the matriculation
standard. He played most sports including cricket, tennis, football,
soccer and also took part in boxing and swimming. After leaving
school he was employed in a clerical capacity by the Wheat Committee
in Christchurch and was still employed there at the time of applying
for service with the R.N.Z.A.F.
Squadron Leader Berry was enlisted in the Regular Air Force
on the 20th October, 1937. He was posted to the Army School at
Trentham with the rank of A.C.2, for a recruit course, after which
he proceeded to the Training School at Wigram on the 4th January,
1938 for his wireless operation training. He applied for a Short
Service Commission in the R.A.F. in May, 1938 and was discharged from
the R.N.Z.A.F. on the 15th July, 1939 in order to take up the Short
Service Commission. He embarked on the 27th July, 1939 for the
United Kingdom.
Shortly after arrival in the United Kingdom, Squadron Leader
Berry was posted on the 11th September, 1939 to No. 1. Initial
Training School, Cambridge and on the 23rd of the following month
proceeded to the Elementary Flying School, Yatesbury, Wiltshire.
On the 23rd March, 1940 he was posted to No. 2. Service Flying
Training School. On this date his Short Service Commission was
confirmed. He was promoted from Acting Pilot Officer to Pilot Officer
on the 11th September, 1940. He was further promoted to Acting
Flight Lieutenant on the 17th March 1941 and again promoted to
Acting Squadron Leader on the 19th April, 1942. Meanwhile on the
13th July, 1940 he proceeded to No. 1. School of Army Co-operation
for a course.
Squadron Leader Berry joined No. 2. Squadron on the 18th August,
1940 where he remained until the 5th of the following month when he