A MUCH-decorated American pilot, whose links with Dorset dated back almost seven decades, has passed away at the age of 90.

Born in Chicago, Lt Col Robert J Reese, who was known as Bob, arrived at Christchurch Airfield, Somerford, in March 1944 with the 509th Squadron of the 405th Fighter Group.

From April that year Bob flew P-47 Thunderbolts from the Naval Air Radio Installation Unit at HMS Raven, continually attacking targets in northern France before and after D-Day.

However, the squadron’s valuable contribution to the war effort came with a high price; 13 pilots were killed and 21 aircraft failed to return from missions.

Bob’s active service came to an abrupt end on February 28, 1945 when he was shot down on his 58th mission and captured by the Germans. He remained in prisoner of war camps until the war ended.

Recalled into the Air Force for the Korean War, Bob was stationed in Japan and the Philippines where he entered the Office of Special Intelligence, serving as an intelligence officer until retiring in 1970.

On June 23, 2002 memories flooded back when Bob and his wife Vie travelled from Virginia to attend a service to dedicate a bronze plaque in memory of those killed and wounded in operations from Christchurch Airfield during the Second World War.

Representing the 405th Fighter Group of the 9th USAAF, Bob laid a wreath and a Roll of Honour was read to honour all those who lost their lives.

During an official reception at the Christchurch Royal British Legion, Bob, who regularly arranged floodlights at Christchurch Priory in memory of his fallen comrades, was presented with honorary membership.

He received numerous medals and citations including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, WWII Victory medal and the French Legion of Honour.

Paying tribute to Bob, former president of the Christchurch Royal Naval Association Joe Waterman, 88, who served on HMS Raven from 1944 until 1945, said: “It was a privilege and great pleasure to spend several days with Bob and Vie during their visit to Christchurch.

“They were such charming people and enjoyable company, with a most sincere sense of gratitude and friendship. My wife Joan and I enjoyed keeping in touch with them.”

Bob died at Lakeland, Florida on September 9 last year. His ashes are to be interred at Arlington National Cemetery, with full military honours, in June.