A memorial campaign to commemorate the men and women of the Photographic Reconnaissance Unit (PRU), some of whom hailed from Rushcliffe and surrounding areas, has been successful following significant backing from new MPs including Rushcliffe’s MP, James Naish. The campaign for a specific memorial for the PRU began in November 2018 and stands to commemorate 2,370 individuals.
Operating in dangerous skies during WWII, PRU pilots had some of the lowest life expectancies in the armed forces – often just six weeks. These unsung heroes flew unarmed aircraft deep into enemy territory to capture images crucial to Allied intelligence. Their work, including the expert analysis of photographic interpreters, played a vital role in strategic planning and helped shape the outcome of the war.
Among them was local hero John William Southmayd Fowler from Normanton-on-the Wolds, whose courage and service helped gather critical intelligence that shaped Allied military strategy. Joining the RAF and learning to fly the Spitfire, 27-year-old John became part of the RAF’s new clandestine Photographic Reconnaissance Unit operating from RAF Heston around 1940. As part of B Flight on 9th November 1940, he was selected to fly a reconnaissance mission of the enemy coast between Flushing and Cherbourg. John failed to return from that flight, and he remains missing – presumed killed – to this day.
The intended location for the new memorial is outside the Treasury, close to the entrance of the Imperial War Museum’s Churchill War Rooms, facing St James’ Park. Over 200 MPs backed the campaign for a dedicated memorial which was referenced in Prime Minister’s Questions on 7th May 2025, with the Prime Minister stating that: “The bravery and service of individuals … in the Photographic Reconnaissance Unit and the photographic interpretation units, saved the lives of many servicemen and servicewomen and, of course, civilians.” “The cost was the many casualties in those units. As we mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, we will remember those who helped to secure our greatest victory.”
James Naish MP commented: “It’s right that we recognise the courage of these incredible people who, despite the known risks, were willing to be the human equivalent of today’s drones. Rushcliffe can be proud of its connection to a unit whose intelligence work saved countless lives, and John Fowler is a shining example of the bravery exhibited by so many people from Rushcliffe who contributed to the war effort.”
The memorial was confirmed by the Veterans Minister Al Kearns MP in the House of Commons last week when speaking in a parliamentary debate.
James continued: “I remain committed to supporting the Spitfire AA810 Project in establishing this memorial and look forward to paying my respects to all Photographic Reconnaissance Units when it is completed.”
For more information on the campaign, please visit https://www.spitfireaa810.co.uk/.
