Sticky Murphy Lover of Life

Those who knew Wing Commander Alan `Sticky’ Murphy remember a man who was an inspiration. Indeed, it motivated James H. Coley, who served with No. 23 Squadron, to write a book dedicated to his commanding officer’s memory and honour. In 1941 Sticky joined the `cloak and dagger’ 1419 (Special Duties) Flight, pioneering short take off and landings dropping agents into occupied Europe. It was extremely hazardous and daring work. On one flight his Lysander was ambushed, with Sticky flying home seriously wounded, and his exploits on a mission to rescue a comrade, John Nesbitt-Dufort, would earn him the Distinguished Service Order. Such feats made him a legend in clandestine circles, a time Sticky recalled as `The greatest fun ever.’ In 1943 Sticky converted to Mosquitoes and was posted to Malta and No. 23 Squadron. Night after night Sticky led the way, following the Squadron motto `Semper Aggressus – Always on the attack’, which he was more inclined to translate as `Right lads! After the bastards!’. Sticky soon became loved for his humanity, daring leadership, and natural charm. In 1944 he took up duty with Bomber Command’s No. 100 Group, carrying out dangerous intruder operations against German night fighter bases. It was on one such operation that Sticky flew his final fateful sortie. Those who knew Sticky never forgot his infectious laugh and joy of living. Let there be no doubt that in any Valhalla of warriors, Sticky Murphy sits beside his contemporaries on equal terms and with a smile.