Major F.J.M. Wilkens 1896 - 1978.

Frederick John Mouat Wilkens 1929 Newcastle Aero Club membership card photo.

Frederick John Mouat Wilkens was born 23rd Nov 1896 in North Shields and was the son of John Theodore Wilkens and the former Williamena Mouat.

During World War one Frederick joined the Northumberland Fusiliers and served in the 19th Service Battalion until 23,1,1917. He rose to become Company Quartermaster Sergeant and then he joined the Royal Flying Corps and became a pilot and flew in combat. He eventually recieved a commision in the Cameron Highlanders and served with them until 1922. He worked for a while at the Eastern Smelting Company in Kuala Lumpur and was a member of the Federal Malay States Volunteer Reserve. He continued flying after World War One and on his return to England joined the Newcastle Aero Club in 1929. In 1931 he married Louise M Bowes. They lived at 36 Swarland Avenue, Benton. He was the Manager of Luxmor Laundry, back Jesmond road. In 1932 they had a son Ian Bowes Wilkens.

F.J.M. Wilkens was one of the original volunteers in No 5 Platoon, No2 Company in 1940. By 1941 he was a Captain and later became a Major in charge of "A" Company 12th Battalion Northumberland Home Guard.

An active member of the local Rotary Club and Fellow of the Corporation of Certified Secretaries he retired in .

If you have any information on Frederick John Mowat Wilkens or anyone who served in the Northumberland Home Guard, Newcastle Battalions please contact ph@ccoynblhomeguard.co.uk