WW2 memories of Sgt VH Ekins of St Neots by David Duker

David Duker tells the remarkable war-time story of Squadron Leader Victor Ekins MBE DFC, a World War Two fighter pilot. Victor Ekins was Cambridgeshire through and through. He was born in St Neots and, after the war, ran an agricultural auction and land agency practice that spanned the entire county. David has worked through the war-time diaries that Victor meticulously kept and that lay unread for more than 80 years. His talk will bring to life the enthralling story of a young man who found himself at the epicentre of one of the biggest turning points in recent history – The Battle of Britain. He met his wife Kim, a ‘plotter’ serving at RAF Kenley, during the intensity of the Battle of Britain and we will hear how their relationship went on to flourish against all odds. He also rose through the ranks to become a Squadron Leader who was admired and respected by those who served with him. This talk will provide a unique insight into the mind and experiences of one of 'Churchill’s few’.

Biog David Duker

David Duker has held a life-long passion for the generation of people who overcame the huge challenge of the Second World War. From a young age he has been captivated by the many stories of human endeavour, with his particular fascination being on the subject of the Battle of Britain.

In 2010, this passion led him to form a close association with the wonderful Kent Battle of Britain museum, and also inspired him to meet, and talk to as many of his heroes as possible. He was fortunate to have forged a close friendship with Flight Lieutenant Bill Green who served with 501 Squadron during the Battle of Britain and considers him to have been one of the most impactful mentors of his life.

Today, David works tirelessly to promote the legacy of this remarkable generation and founded the Tally Ho Project CIC- a social enterprise dedicated to sharing the many life-changing lessons that can be found in the past. His aim is to empower people from all backgrounds to rise to their own challenges and to believe in a life of possibility. To support this work, he published his first book ‘Rise to the Challenge’ in 2021, and ‘One of Our Own’ was published in July 2023.

David is a public speaker, historian, author and life coach who has now worked with over 12,000 people.

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