Leading Aircraftman Joseph Wardle Savage (1109070) served in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve during World War Two. Born on 25th October 1920, he was the eldest son of John Savage and Mary Thompson Savage (née Wardle) of 79 Peter's Hill, Belfast, Co. Antrim.
Joseph died on 8th April 1941 aged 20 years old. He had joined the Royal Air Force in July 1940 and as a cadet pilot was still in training. His final exams to gain his wings would have taken place the week of his death. Before the outbreak of war, he attended Mountpottinger School and the College of Technology. He showed skill as an artist and worked in the artist’s department of W&G Baird Ltd. as well as in the family furniture business at Peter’s Hill, Belfast, Co. Antrim.
Leading Aircraftman Savage was the pilot of De Havilland Tiger Moth T7221 when it crashed into De Havilland Tiger Moth BB741. The incident occurred over Brough Airfield, Yorkshire on 7th April 1941 as both planes circled waiting to land. The second Tiger Moth returned to base and landed safely.
Joseph Wardle Savage’s grave is in Section B2, Grave 809 of Dundonald Cemetery, Dundonald, Co. Down.