F/Lt. R. L. Jones joined the RAFVR in early July 1938 as an Airman u/t Pilot (741850) and carried out his flying training at 8 E&RFTS, Woodley flying Magisters and Harts.
He was called to full-time service on 1st September, 1939, and in November went to 10 FTS, Tern Hill  flying North American Havards.
In May, 1940, Jones was posted to 5 OTU, Aston Down, to convert to Spitfires and left with 18 hours experience on the Mk 1.

Richard joined 64 Squadron at Kenley in July, 1940, flying Spitfires.
On 12th September, 1940, he was posted to join No 19 Squadron, which was part of the legendary Duxford wing still flying Spitfires.

In November, he rejoined 64 Squadron, then based at Hornchurch.  In January, 1941, he went with the squadron to Rochford before being posted to the Ministry of Aircraft Production in April, 1941.  He was then seconded to the De Havilland Aircraft Company, as a test pilot. He was the only RAF pilot to be based at the Witney De Havilland factory, mainly testing repaired or rebuilt Spitfires and Hurricanes.  His duties also included testing all De Havilland  aircraft, both military and civil.  During his four years test flying he only suffered one engine failure and two forced landings in over 2,000 flight tests.

Richard was awarded the Air Efficiency Award and in 1944 he was awarded the King’s Commendation for valuable service in the air. 

Richard was to remain as a test pilot throughout the remainder of the war, and performed test duties until he was released from the RAF in January 1946.