While Bader’s loss was keenly felt on one level, his job had already been done. Like every effective war leader he left behind a fighting legacy. Although Dundas and many others now felt little enthusiasm for the fight, Bader’s spirit demanded they carry on. ‘To pass onto the new pilots the experience and knowledge I had gained, as well as the spirit of aggression with which Douglas had imbued us,’ wrote Dundas. He needed to hold on to that spirit more than most. He was the last surviving original member from 616 Auxiliary Squadron left flying.
