Neville was born in Johannesburg, South Africa but grew up in Durban. At twelve years old polio left him paralyzed from the waist down. He was stubborn and worked daily to recover his mobility. Just a year later he was able to walk to Glenwood High School, where he won both academic and sporting awards. After graduation he worked for Lever Brothers and later for the South African Treasury department. He loved all things fast, and owned both a motorcycle and sports car.

In May 1940, Neville volunteered for the South African Air Force (SAAF). He arrived in Egypt in July 1941 and joined No.2 Squadron SAAF, flying Curtiss P-40 Tomahawk fighter planes. In October 1941 he was on patrol with his squadron over the desert when they intercepted by German fighters. Ambushed, the squadron suffered heavy losses in the short air battle. Neville’s Tomahawk was badly damaged and he bailed out. Alone in the desert, he walked for three days without food or water. On the fourth day he was saved up by passing German troops.

Neville was quickly sent to Europe, and was held at Stalag Luft I in northern Germany, before being transferred to Stalag Luft III. He volunteered to take part in the Great Escape but his physical size meant he could not work in the tunnels. Instead, he was given command of the security detail who kept watch over the German guards. Neville was one of 76 men who escaped on the night of 24 March 1944. He did not get far, being spotted and captured by a patrol from the prison. He was murdered on 6 April. He was 26 years old. He is today commemorated in CWGC Poznan Old Garrison Cemetery, Plot 7. Row D. Grave 6.

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