in early 1940, 605 squadron moved to raf drem, as they converted to hurricanes. mckellar was transferred to no. 605 and promoted to flight lieutenant, assuming the responsibilities of a flight leader on 21 june 1940. mckellar imposed strict discipline, both in standard of dress on the ground and in tactical discipline in the air. despite his strict methods mckellar was held in high regard. his popularity arose from his desire to help mould his unit into a well-disciplined fighting team.