RAF Benevolent Fund pays tribute to RAF veteran Jack Dark

All at the RAF Benevolent Fund honour the life and service of Jack Dark, a much-loved Second World War veteran, who has sadly passed away at the age of 102. 

Jack Dark, born in August 1923 in Horsham, Surrey, was one of the last surviving members of the legendary RAF Lancaster Pathfinder crews. He joined Bomber Command in 1943 at the age of 18, serving as a Bomb Aimer and Navigator before becoming a Radar Navigator Leader in the elite Pathfinder Force.

During his wartime service, Jack flew 28 combat operations to some of the most dangerous targets of the war including Hamburg, Munich, Dresden, the Norwegian fjords, and others. As a Pathfinder, he flew ahead of the main bomber streams – tasked with marking targets under heavy risk, frequently alone, often facing intense hostility.

After the war, Jack returned to civilian life in Horsham, where he dedicated many decades to serving his local community, including a long career in local government. He remained connected to the RAF Family throughout his life, frequently sharing his memories through interviews and films – most notably Lancaster, in which his wartime experiences are prominently featured. He also served as a guest of honour at commemorations and gatherings with other RAF veterans, including the annual Bomber Command Memorial hosted by the RAF Benevolent Fund, and a tea party at the Fund’s head offices in May 2025 to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

Despite the dangers he faced at a young age serving his country, Jack reached the remarkable age of 102 and leaves behind a legacy of bravery and service.

Chris Elliot, Chief Executive of the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: "Jack Dark served his country with bravery and selflessness. We, at the RAF Benevolent Fund, were honoured to know him and extend our deepest sympathies to Jack’s family, friends, and all who knew him."