RFC 266 - The Great War   Early History   The origins of 266 RFC lie shrouded in mystery; the first known historical reference is in an early diary entry of James Bigglesworth, at that point in time a new recruit in the RFC. Though posted to another squadron, he encountered a fellow officer, Mahoney, at Newhaven Quay on his way to the front. Mahoney belonged to 266, and immediately struck up a friendship with Bigglesworth (or "Biggles" as he became more popularly known) which lasted the war and saw Biggles himself transfer to 266 within 8 months. This was at the beginning of October 1916, and Mahoney had reportedly already done a six month stint at the front, making 266 one of the earliest know scout squadrons. 266 were at this time flying Sopwith Pups (see the planes page for details), and must have been among the first squadrons to receive the plane, then the absolute height of technology. Their personnel at that time, with the exception of Mahoney, is unknown, as is their operational history. This page will continue with the history of 266 in 1917 and 1918, brief bio's of leading members of the squadron, and a condensed history of RAF 266, the genuine historical squadron.