I found the following in my archives and thought that some of you may find it of interest. In St James' cemitary, by the side of the footpath that leads to the CWGC section you will find two headstones standing together, both are in the name of Kirton.
The first is for James H Kirton RN, Electrical Artificer 2rd class, from HMS Tarlair (a shore base in Scotland) He died on 9th November 1918, just two days before wars end, of pneumonia, he was aged 27.
Next to James lies his son, David. David was born on June 2nd 1919, so father and son never knew each other.
David followed his elder brother James, into the RAF, becoming a photographer, he gained his wings in 1939 and flew Hurricanes with 501 squadron before moving to 65 squadron, and Spitfires.
August 8th 1940 dawned bright and clear and very soon David was scrambled from his base at Kenley to intercept a incoming attack on a channel convoy, he was flying Spitfire Mk1a - K9911.
At 11.30 that morning Oberleutnant Willy Fronhofer, flying his ME109/E4 - 1184 - yellow 10 of 9/JG26, from Caffiers in France, shot David down in flames, the fight took place over Manston, David was recovered and, following a service in St James church (next to the White Horse) was laid to rest next to his father on August 13th.
23 days later Willy Fronhofer was shot down and crash landed near Headcorn, he was captured, unhurt, and became a POW. His victor was Colin Grey of 54 squadron.
David's brother became a Squadron Leader and was killed flying a Wellington bomber on 27th January 1944.
The family home in Dover was 20, Marine Parade, now the site of gardens where benches line the sunken flower beds.
One of these is dedicated to the two brothers, why not take a walk and find it, sit down and have a little think, I do.
Next to Hawkinge airfield you will also find Kirton Close.
