Sir Robert Cockburn; Scientist Thwarted Nazi Radar

Sir Robert Cockburn, 85, British scientist who thwarted German radar during World War II, saving countless American and British planes and civilians. Educated at London University, Cockburn went into communications research for the Royal Aircraft Establishment at the outset of the war. He headed a group of scientists and engineers who devised a way to jam German navigational radio beams by releasing thin metallic foil strips into the air. The strips created a radar echo, making it impossible for German pilots to find their targets. After the war, Cockburn spent his career in government military research, primarily in atomic energy and guided missiles. Among his awards was the U.S. Congressional Medal for Merit. On March 21 in Aldershot, England.