Sun Nov 10 17:14:31 UTC 2024: ## Thame Museum Honors RAF Pilot and Windrush Figure with New Exhibition

**Thame, UK** – Thame Museum is set to launch a permanent exhibition honoring the remarkable life of Flight Lieutenant John Henry Smythe, a pioneering figure in both World War II and the Windrush generation.

Smythe, one of only 60 West Africans to serve in the RAF, joined the British Empire’s fight against Nazi Germany in 1943. During his service, he flew numerous missions as a navigator, but was shot down over Germany on his 27th flight. He was captured and held as a prisoner of war, suffering severe injuries and brutal interrogations before his eventual liberation.

Following his release, Smythe continued to serve in the RAF, playing a crucial role in the welfare of Caribbean servicemen returning home. He was notably tasked with assisting those onboard the Empire Windrush, a ship carrying demobilized Caribbean men to Britain, warning them of the challenges they would face in a racially prejudiced society.

Smythe’s life took an even more extraordinary turn when he pursued a career in law, ultimately becoming the Attorney General of Sierra Leone and meeting President John F. Kennedy in the White House. He passed away in 1996 and is buried in Thame, where he spent his retirement.

The exhibition, which officially opens on Thursday, tells Smythe’s remarkable story through personal accounts, photographs, and artifacts. His son, Eddy Smythe, who contributed significantly to the exhibition, expresses immense gratitude to the museum for their efforts and the opportunity to share his father’s legacy with the world.

“It’s difficult to articulate how I feel, because it’s just so immense,” said Eddy. “I’m so grateful to Thame Museum for the effort and the work they’ve put into creating this exhibition and it’s really overwhelming.”

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