Flying Officer Walter Hewson Perinchief , a pilot in the Royal Air Force in the Second World War, was Pete Perinchief `s uncle, and his inspiration to try to become a pilot in the RAF.

Like Pete, Hewson had started the Second World War with the Bermuda Volunteer Rifle Corps and received an early commission as a second lieutenant. Volunteering for overseas service, Hewson selected the Royal Air Force and successfully completed pilot training.

Shortly after being posted to the Middle East, however, Hewson's military career tragically was cut short. His squadron, under the command of Wing Commander William P. Kemp, on December 10, 1943 set out on an operational mission near Cyprus. During heavy fighting, Hewson's plane disappeared. He and his crew were never heard of again.

Born in Bermuda, the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. Walter S. Perinchief , Hewson was educated at Saltus Grammar School. Before the War he had become well established in his own business in Hamilton.

On July 3, 1966 a memorial tablet to Hewson's memory was placed in Emmanuel Methodist Church in Southampton, where he had been a member. His grandparents were among those who gave land to build the original Church.

His Excellency the Governor, Lord Martimere , KCMG, PC unveiled the tablet. His address was entitled "Freedom is not free". Graham Madeiros, another well known Bermudian war veteran, who served overseas with the Lincolnshire Regiment in Europe, read the lesson.

Hewson Perinchief had married Lillas Gorham, also of Bermuda. They are survived by their twin daughters, Kay Gartner of Bermuda and Judy Welke of Boston and their families. - Tommy Aitchison