Lieutenant Commander John Barnes RN (1921 – 2026 )

We were saddened to hear of the death of former Elizabeth College bursar, Lieutenant Commander John Barnes earlier this week.

John Barnes was born on 15 April 1921 in Wandsworth, London, and educated at Blundell’s School before training in estate management. Following the Dunkirk evacuation, he volunteered for the Fleet Air Arm and began a distinguished naval career that spanned more than twenty years.

As a naval aviator during the Second World War, John flew torpedo bombers, fighters and reconnaissance aircraft from aircraft carriers in the Atlantic and Mediterranean. He took part in the Malta convoy operations, anti-submarine patrols and rescue missions, and was involved in actions that contributed to the sinking of German U-boats and the saving of survivors from torpedoed merchant ships. He was mentioned in despatches and granted a permanent commission, eventually rising to the rank of Lieutenant Commander.

After the war he continued to serve with distinction, commanding several squadrons, instructing naval aircrew, leading the Coronation Review fly-past at Spithead in 1953, and later becoming pilot to the Board of Admiralty. His squadron was awarded the Boyd Trophy in 1960 for outstanding achievement in Royal Naval aviation, and he also acted as a technical adviser during the filming of Sink the Bismarck!.

In 1962 John left the Royal Navy and embarked on a second career as Bursar of Elizabeth College, a post he held until his retirement in 1985. During more than two decades at the College he was a central figure in its administration and development, bringing to the role the same professionalism, discipline and quiet authority that had marked his naval service. His three sons were educated at the College, and he remained deeply committed to the life of the school.

John Barnes was awarded the Air Crew Europe Star (with Atlantic clasp), Africa Star, War Medal 1939–45 and Coronation Medal.

Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time.