P/O J. L. Kemp began his ab initio course at 11 R&RFTS at Perth in January 1938.

In March, John was commissioned in the class 'A' Reserve at Uxbridge, and posted to 10 FTS at Tern Hill in March.

John joined 64 Squadron at Church Fenton in late 1938.
After his one year of service terminated, John returned to civilian life in January 1939.

John was called up on 2nd September 1939, and posted to 609 Squadron at Catterick.

John joined 54 Squadron at Hornchurch in May 1940.
On 4th July, John's aircraft was damaged in combat with Bf 109s near Manston.
On 27th July, John baled out of his Spitfire MkI (N3184) east of Clacton because of engine failure. He was rescued from the sea by a Royal Navy Destroyer.
On 12th August, John's Spitfire was damaged by an Me109, and he had to force-land at Lympne.

In October 1940, John was posted away from 54 Squadron and did not fly any more.
He went on to Fighter Command duties.

Soon after D-Day, John was landed in Normandy with a small radar control unit and by VE Day he had reached the Baltic.

John was released from the RAF in 1946, as a Flight Lieutenant.