ARBEAU, Sergeant Cyril Walter (R73477) - Mention
in Despatches - No.420 Squadron (No.62 Base) - Award effective 1 January
1945 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 425/45 dated 9 March
1945. Home in Blissfield, New Brunswick;
enlisted Moncton, 12 December 1040. No
citation in AFRO. DHist file 181.009
D.1745 (RG.24 Vol.20608) states he was a Fitter IIA who enlisted 12 December
1940, remaining in Canada until 10 February 1942. Arrived overseas 20 February 1942. Recommended for MiD by Commanding Officer,
No.420 Squadron, 22 July 1944 who wrote:
Sergeant Arbeau has contributed much to his
section through his untiring devotion to duty under very trying
circumstances. His cheerful disposition
and dependability has always given assurances to others, and for his
outstanding loyalty and exceptional ability it is strongly recommended he be
awarded a Mention in Despatches.
ARBOUR, P/O Joseph Edouard Jean Guy (J87413) -
Belgian Croix de Guerre 1940 with Palm (deceased) - Awarded 17 July 1948
as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 455/48 dated 23 July
1948. Home in Montreal. Air gunner,
killed with No.426 Squadron, 12/13 May 1944, Halifax LW682. Buried in Belgium.
ARBUCKLE, S/L George Frederick (J23445) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.429 Squadron - Award effective 3 October 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 2637/44 dated 8 December 1944. Born in Toronto, 1921. Home there; enlisted there 20 October
1941. Shoe salesman before enlisting in
1941. Trained at No.3 ITS (graduated 24
April 1942), No.4 EFTS (graduated 25 September 1942) and No.8 SFTS (graduated 5
February 1943). Commissioned 1943. Presented with award 24 May 1946. Employed postwar by York Farms (a division of
Canada Packers). Active in Brantford
society. Died in Lindsay, Ontario, 2
March 1994. Photo PL-31174 taken with
No.429 Squadron;
This officer has at all times displayed a high
degree of skill and determination. He
has completed many sorties including attacks on Berlin, Leipzig, Frankfurt and
other heavily defended targets. On one
occasion on the bombing run, his aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire. One engine was put out of action but Squadron
Leader Arbuckle continued the bombing run and successfully attacked the
target. This officer is a very capable
flight commander whose excellent leadership is largely responsible for the
efficiency of the squadron.
ARBUCKLE, F/O William Morton (J17202) - Commended
for Valuable Services - Overseas - Award effective 8 June 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1729/44 dated 11 August 1944. Born in Montreal, 1915. Home in Lakeside, Quebec; enlisted Montreal,
6 June 1940. Trained at No.1 ITS
(graduated 20 July 1940, No.1 BGS
(graduated 22 November 1940), No.1 AOS
(graduated 12 October 1940) and No.1 ANS (graduated 23 December 1940). Commissioned 1943. Reported interned in Turkey, 31 October
1943 No citation.
ARBUCKLE, F/O William Morton (J17202) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.216 Squadron - Award effective 19 September 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 29 September 1944 and AFRO 2373/44 dated 3 November
1944. Presented with award 25 February
1946. Reported in newspapers to have
flown a jeep to Yugoslavia for Tito.
Flying Officer Arbuckle has always maintained
a consistently high standard of navigation during his service with this
squadron. He has participated in
operations in India, the Western Desert and over the eastern
Mediterranean. In September 1942 he
successfully located casualties after a flight of 600 miles over featureless
desert and by his excellent navigation made their evacuation possible. He has also taken part in supply dropping
sorties on Cos and Saos and in the Imphal campaign has flown as navigator both
by day and night over difficult country and in adverse weather. At all times his keenness and devotion to
duty have been exemplary.
ARCHAMBAULT, W/C Leon Gustav Gaspard Jean (C770) - Air Force Cross - No.1 Reconnaissance and Navigation School (now ANS) - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 82/46 dated 25 January 1946. Born 26 July 1913 at Outremont (Montreal), Quebec. Educated at College Mont Ste.Marie and the Ecole Polytechnique, University of Montreal (Engineering). Joined the RCAF in 1937. Flew Strabraers with No.5 (BR) Squadron. Later commanded No,423 Squadron (Sunderlands). Postwar postings included Eastern Air Command Headquarters (Halifax), Station Trenton, Station St.Hubert, Director of Personnel Manning at AFHQ, and Commandant of College Militaire Royale (St.Jean, Quebec, 1957-1960). He then commanding No.5 Air Division (Vancouver) and was on the staff of Flag Officer, Pacific Coast. Retired in 1964. Became Dean of Student Affairs, University of Ottawa, and still later the Town Manager of Aylmer, Quebec. Died in Ottawa, 19 October 2002. Governor General's Records (RG.7 Group 26 Volume 59, file 190-I, dossier 8) has citation. When recommended he had flown 2,021 hours, 321 in previous six months. Photo PL-68109 is head and shoulders; PL-135192 shows him at desk.
This officer is most conscientious, efficient
and loyal. His two years operational
experience with a Coastal Command squadron together with his qualities of
leadership have contributed largely to the high efficiency of the Training
Wing
he commands. By his personal example in
flying he has been in no small measure responsible for the excellent record of
the Flying Squadron. Throughout his service
career this officer's great devotion to duty has made a splendid contribution
to the standard of flying efficiency at this unit.
ARCHAMBAULT, F/L Robert Francis (J11286) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.425 Squadron - Award effective 5 June 1945 per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1147/45 dated 13 July 1945. Born in Ottawa, 1917; home there; enlisted
there 19 June 1941. Trained at No.3 ITS
(graduated 7 November 1941), No.20 EFTS (graduated 2 January 1942) and No.16
SFTS (graduated 24 April 1942).
Commissioned 1942. Overseas in
September 1943. Presented with award 1
December 1948.
Flight Lieutenant Archambault has completed
many sorties against such targets as Duisburg, Cologne and Dusseldorf. On one occasion in January 1945 he was
detailed to attack Chemnitz. On the
outward flight some important equipment became unserviceable. Later trouble was experienced with the port
outer engine. Undeterred, this officer
proceeded to the target which was successfully bombed despite intense enemy
activity. He has at all times displayed
the utmost determination and devotion to duty.
ARCHER, F/L Gordon Walter (J28296) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.427 Squadron - Award effective 8 September 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 21 September 1945 and AFRO 1704/45 dated 9 November
1945. Born 1918, Hamilton, Ontario; home
there. Engraver, ex-RCA, enlisted in Hamilton, 2 August 1941. Trained at No.5 ITS (graduated 17 January
1942), No.13 EFTS (graduated 27 March 1942) and No.2 SFTS (graduated 31 July
1942). Commissioned July 1943. Presented with award in Hamilton 27 July 1949. Photo PL-9642 taken just after wings parade
(C.W. Archer, W.E. Worthington, W. Wood); PL 9656 after wings parade showing
wings to Bernice Archer (sister), Mary Shepherd (fiance), and Mrs. F. West
(sister); PL-42630 shows him with WO2 G.R. Brown after raid on Dortmund;
PL-43736 with P/O H.W. Clapham at conclusion of tour. No citation other than
"completed...numerous operations against the enemy in the course of which
[he has] invariably displayed the utmost fortitude, courage and devotion to
duty." DHist file 181.009 D.1720 (PAC
RG.24 Vol.20607) has recommendation dated 19 April 1945, at which time he had
flown 33 sorties (184 hours 30 minutes).
This captain has completed thirty-three heavy
operational bombing attacks against some of the most heavily defended targets
of the enemy. His work in general has
been outstanding and he can be relied upon to carry out any mission no matter
how hazardous it may be. Flight
Lieutenant Archer possesses coolness and displays exceptional fearlessness in
the face of danger and his ability to make instant decisions in emergency
[sic], skilful pilotage and cool judgement has contributed in a large measure
to the success of his operational flights.
Through his exceptional ability he has been an inspiration not only to
his crew but to the squadron in general.
ARCHER, F/L Phillip Leslie Irving (J3508) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.416 Squadron - Award effective 24 August 1942 as per London
Gazette dated 11 September 1942 and AFRO 1535/42 dated 25 September 1942.
Born in Bridgetown, Barbados, 1917. Joined RCAF in Montreal, 6 June 1940.
Trained at No.1 ITS , No.6 EFTS, and No.1 SFTS.
Posted overseas immediately; to No.57 OTU, 17 February 1941; to No.92
Squadron, 5 May 1941 where he destroyed three enemy aircraft and damaged
one. To No.412 Squadron, 11 November
1941; to No.416 Squadron ("A" Flight Commander), 10 March 1942. To Station Kenley, 1 December 1942. Presented with award 9 February 1943. Designated CO, No.402 Squadron, 13 June 1943
and attached to No.421 Squadron for a few days to get back to operational
standards. On 17 June 1943 he took
command of No.421 Squadron on posting of CO; killed in action 17 June
1943. Aerial victories as follows: 23
June 1941, one Bf.109F destroyed southeast of Boulogne; 7 July 1941,
one Bf.109F destroyed and one damaged near Lille; 9 July 1941, one
Bf.109F destroyed near Bethune; 18 July 1942, one Do.217 destroyed east of Orfordness; 17
June 1943, one FW.190 destroyed (action in which he was killed). Photo PL-7689 (with P/O Buchan); PL-7690 (in
front of Spitfire); PL-11906 (portrait); PL-15375 (F/L E.H. McCaffrey, S/L
P.L.I. Archer, F/L D.J. Williams after investiture).
This officer has completed sorties over enemy
territory and has destroyed at least four enemy aircraft. On one occasion, although wounded in the leg,
Flight Lieutenant Archer flew his badly damaged aircraft back to the base where
he executed a skilful landing. He is a
most efficient leader.
ARCHER, Sergeant Samuel Sydney (R107529) - Mention
in Despatches - No.10 Squadron (Canada) - Award effective 5 May 1944 as per
London Gazette of that date and AFRO 1133/44 dated 26 May 1944. Home in Broadview, Saskatchewan; enlisted in
Regina 31 May 1941. Trained at No.9 BGS (graduated 12 March 1943) and No.3 WS
(graduated 21 January 1943). Photo PL-24227
shows how WO H.W. Kostiuk held onto Archer while photographing attack on
submarine, 14 February 1944. Photo
PL-24228 shows the whole crew after their attack on a U-Boat: Back Row - WO2
F.J. Patterson; F.O A.P.V. Cheater, F/O P.C.E. Lafond, F/O M.S. Wallace, P/O
J.A. Banks. Front Row - Sergent S.S.
Archer, WO2 C.S. Carter.
This NCO was acting as camera operator of a
VLR Liberator which attacked a strongly resisting enemy submarine recently in
the North Atlantic. With complete
disregard for personal safety and under very poor conditions he took the
maximum possible number of photographs.
He has at all times displayed outstanding devotion to duty.
ARCHIBALD, W/C Donald Frederick Anderson
(C2371) - Member, Order of the British Empire - RCAF Overseas
Headquarters - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per Canada Gazette of
that date and AFRO 82/46 dated 25 January 1946.
Enlisted in Moncton, 10 July 1940.
Presented with award 16 April 1948.
Photo PL-1735 shows him at No.7 Equipment Depot with P/O C.
Cowperthwaite.
This Accountant Officer, in addition to
performing his regular duties on this unit with great ability, has worked long
hours overtime on systems and projects to improve the efficiency of not only
the section under his command, but also the unit as a whole. His keen enthusiasm and devotion to duty have
been responsible in no small measure for the excellent results achieved by his
section.
ARCHIBALD, S/L John Cameron (J16421) - Mention
in Despatches - No.76 Base - Award effective 1 January 1945 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 337/45 dated 23 February 1945. Home in St.Brieux, Saskatchewan; enlisted in
Saskatoon, 10 September 1940. Trained at
No.1 ITS (graduated 21 December 1940),
No.3 AOS (graduated 21 July 1941),
No.5 BGS (graduated 1 September 1941) and No.1 ANS (graduated 29
September 1941). Photo PL-7815 taken at
time No.419 Squadron was having a Royal visit; W/C Fulton introduces Sergeant
W. Moots to the Queen while Sergeant E.G. Peters and Flight Sergeant Jack
Archibald wait their turn; PL-36884 has
F/L Jack C. Archibald with F/O George C. McCay (Bounty, Saskatchewan).
ARCHIBALD, Corporal Leslie McLean (R178728) - Mention
in Despatches - Overseas - Award effective 14 June 1945 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1647/45 dated 26 October 1945. Home in Sangudu, Alberta; enlisted Edmonton,
28 July 1942. No citation in AFRO.
ARD, WO William Henry (R52501) - Mention in
Despatches - Eastmoor - Award effective 14 January 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 874/44 dated 21 April 1944. Unit identified in AFRO only as
"Overseas"; No.6 Group Monthly
Summary of Operational and Training Activities (January 1944) gives No.62
Base. Home in Niagara Falls, Ontario;
enlisted there 10 October 1939; DHist
file 181.009 D.1719 (PAC RG.24 Vol.20606) has recommendation dated 26 August
1943 which originates from Eastmoor.
Disciplinary NCO. Also associated
with Linton-on-Ouse.
This Warrant Officer, a veteran of the last
war, re-enlisted in October 1939, and has already served nine months
overseas. He has at all times carried
out his duties in a keen and zealous manner, and has inspired confidence and
respect of superiors and subordinates.
His ability to impart Service knowledge has been of great value to units
as a whole and individuals in particular.
His service deportment is of the highest standard. Warrant Officer Ard has thoroughly
demonstrated the qualities required in a Disciplinarian, and has carried out
his duties with tact and energy.
ARDELINE, F/O Paul (J16569) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.152 Squadron - Award effective 9 October 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 19 October 1945 and AFRO 1822/45 dated 7 December 1945. Born in Regina, 1917; home in Hamilton,
Ontario. Enlisted in Hamilton 5 May
1941. Trained at No.3 ITS (graduated 25
September 1941), No.21 EFTS (graduated
21 November 1941) and No.9 SFTS (graduated 10 April 1942).
Commissioned January 1943. Award
sent by registered mail 28 June 1947.
Flying Officer Ardeline has served with this
squadron since January 1944. Prior to
this he took part in attacks on the Arakan and Imphal fronts and in the night
defence of the Calcutta area. During the
whole on his tour he has displayed outstanding keenness and determination to
engage the enemy. Recently he pursued a
formation of hostile aircraft far into Burma, damaging one and probably
destroying another. The example set by
Flying Officer Ardeline has been an inspiration to his fellow pilots.
ARDIS, F/O Beverley Donn (J26495) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.428 Squadron - Award effective 13 June 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1660/44 dated 4 August 1944. Born in Ottawa, 1922; home in Friendship, New
York; enlisted in Toronto, 20 July 1942.
Trained at No.9 BGS (graduated 14 May 1943). Commissioned 1943. Award sent by registered mail 23 November
1949.
As air gunner, this officer has taken part in
many attacks on targets in Germany including several on the capital. He is a keen, vigilant and resolute member of
aircraft crew and has played a worthy part in the successes obtained.
ARDIS, F/O Victor Dempster (J16907) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.420 Squadron - Award effective 23 November 1943 as per London
Gazette dated 30 November 1943 and AFRO 166/44 dated 28 January 1944. Born in Ottawa, 1917; home in Belfast, New
York or California; enlisted Toronto, 15 January 1941. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 28 May 1941),
No.3 EFTS (graduated 15 July 1941) and No.1 SFTS (graduated 7 October
1941). Commissioned 1942. Award sent by registered mail 23 November
1949.
This pilot has completed a large number of
night bombing sorties. Throughout the
Sicilian and Italian campaigns he has pressed home his attacks with the
greatest determination and has obtained a photograph of the aiming point on
nearly every occasion. His cheerfulness
and disregard of any defences have contributed much to the high morale of his
crew and squadron.
ARGUE, Sergeant Arthur Lyall (R82220) - Mention
in Despatches - Overseas - Award effective 14 June 1945 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1600/45 dated 12 October 1945. Home in Pakenham, Ontario; enlisted Ottawa,
10 December 1940.
ARIS, LAC Harry Hayman (R122124) - Mention
in Despatches - Station Croft - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 418/46 dated 18 April 1946. Home in Vancouver; enlisted there 6 August
1941. No citation. Newsclipping from Calgary Herald (no
date) says he was born in Calgary, educated there, and worked for Canadian
Natural Gas, Light, Heat and Power Company.
Stationed with No.6 Group, he "obtained tools and materials with
which to organize a hobby shop" and
was "instrumental in establishing a club room for the men." DHist
file 181.009 D.4364 (RG.24 Vol.20648) has recommendation for a BEM dated 20 May
1945 which also identifies unit. Clerk
Stenographer, Assistant to Station Administrative Officer. Photo PL-32800 shows him cultivating a
station garden.
This airman enlisted 6th August 1941, and has
served in the United Kingdom since 23rd June 1942. He has been on the strength of this unit for
twenty-two months during which period he has rendered a contribution to the
service far beyond that called for from the normal line of his duty. In addition to his normal duties he has acted
as chairman of the Service Institute, making it, through his efforts and
guidance, a credit to the Station and an institution of worth to the
airmen. He has also kept the account for
and managed the funds of the Sergeants' Mess and Service Institute. He has taken a leading part in Educational
activities at this unit both as organizer and instructor, and has been
responsible for the beautifying of Station grounds and gardens. Despite the disheartening experience of
receiving no promotion or commissioning, both of which have been held up by
establishment and policy changes, he has nevertheless remained willing, active,
co-operative and cheerful. A fine
character in all respects, he is because of his qualities of leadership, his
outstanding ability, and fine service spirit, strongly recommended for the
award of the British Empire Medal.
ARKLIE, WO (now P/O) Ernest Frank
(R76423/J87570) - Mention in Despatches - No.24 OTU - Award effective 1
January 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 379/45 dated 2
March 1945. Home in St.James, Manitoba;
enlisted in Halifax, Nova Scotia, 2 January 1941. Trained at No.3 WS (graduated 10 January
1942) and No.7 BGS (graduated 3 August 1942).
No citation. Photo PL-35203 is a portrait.
ARMER, F/O Ross (J23020) - Air Force Cross
- No.9 SFTS (now No.2 ANS) - Award effective 5 May 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1133/44 dated 26 May 1944. Home in Exeter,
Ontario. Enlisted in Hamilton, 5 November 1940. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated
14 March 1941), No.10 EFTS (graduated 28 May 1941), and No.9 SFTS (graduated 10
August 1941). As of award he had flown
1,830 hours 30 minutes, including 1,590 hours 15 minutes as instructor, 324
hours 25 minutes in previous six months.
This officer has displayed outstanding
qualities of leadership, organization and devotion to duty as a flying
instructor. His keenness, exceptional
zeal in his work and rigid adherence to flying discipline has been most instrumental
in raising the standards of his fellow instructors.
ARMITAGE, LAW Doris Edith (W312908) - British
Empire Medal - MCHQ - Award effective 13 June 1946 as per Canada Gazette
of that date and AFRO 660/46 dated 5 July 1946.
Home in Dunrobin, Ontario; enlisted in Ottawa, 16 April 1943. Presented with award 14 June 1947.
This airwoman has, since being on strength of
this unit, proven herself to be an exceptionally dependable Driver Transport
who has at all times given her services to the Royal Canadian Air Force beyond
normal demands. In addition, on the
night of February 3rd, 1946, her quick thinking and fortitude during a fire in
the unit Motor Transport Section was instrumental in preventing possible fatal
injuries to a comrade and reducing property loss to a minimum. Her devotion to duty and exceptional
judgement merits recognition.
ARMITAGE, F/O Robert Munday (J35566) - Distinguished
Flying Cross -No.408 Squadron - Award effective 8 September 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 21 September 1945 and AFRO 1704/45 dated 9 November
1945. Born 1914 in Timmins, Ontario;
home in Parry Sound, Ontario. Clerk and
store manager; enlisted in North Bay, Ontario, 29 June 1942. Trained at No.3 ITS (graduated 3 April 1943),
No.12 EFTS (graduated 29 May 1943) and No.16 SFTS (graduated 1 October
1943). Commissioned September 1943. Award sent by registered mail 28 June
1949. No citation other than
"completed...numerous operations against the enemy in the course of which
[he has] invariably displayed the utmost fortitude, courage and devotion to
duty." DHist file 181.009 D.2618
(RG.24 Vol.20627) has recommendation dated 16 April 1945 when he had flown 36
sorties (215 hours 55 minutes) between 11 September 1944 and 23 February
1945. Died in Parry Sound, Ontario, 19
June 1997.
Flying Officer Armitage has completed a tour of
operations against the enemy on four-engined bombers. He has operated deep into the heart of
Germany on many occasions and has been over such heavily defended targets as
Chemnitz, Hanover, Essen.
At all times he has pressed home his attacks
and procured many fine photographs of the various targets. He has been a source
of inspiration to his crew members by his capability and guidance and has
fostered a good squadron spirit.
Flying Officer Armitage's courage and
cheerfulness throughout his tour has been outstanding...
ARMSTRONG, FS (now P/O) Arley Walter
(R187588/J88782) - Distinguished Flying Medal - No.15 Squadron - Award
effective 4 November 1944 as per London Gazette dated 14 November 1944
and AFRO 239/45 dated 9 February 1945.
Home in Petrolia, Ontario; enlisted Windsor, 26 August 1942. Trained at No.9 BGS (graduated 6 August
1943). Commissioned 1944. Presented with award 28 May 1947..
As rear gunner Flight Sergeant Armstrong has
completed a tour of operational sorties, including among his targets Stuttgart
and Dortmund. In April 1944, shortly
after leaving Cologne, one engine of his aircraft caught fire and after some
difficulty was feathered, thus rendering his turret unserviceable. Shortly after they were attacked four times
by enemy aircraft. In all these attacks
Flight Sergeant Armstrong was handicapped by an unserviceable turret but by his
correct procedure, which he adopted to inform his captain, of the direction of
the enemy attacks, he rendered invaluable assistance and ensured that no damage
was inflicted on his aircraft. Flight
Sergeant Anderson is a most keen and efficient air gunner who has at all times
shown the greatest courage and devotion to duty both in the air and on the
ground.
ARMSTRONG, F/L Donald Hadley (J2969) - Air
Force Cross - No.2 SFTS - Award effective 1 January 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 113/44 dated 21 January 1944. Born at Lethbridge, Alberta, 25 November
1918. Enlisted in Trenton, 6 November
1939. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 23 May 1940), Edmonton Aero Club
(graduated 22 July 1949) and No.1 SFTS (graduated 18 September 1940). Presented with award 10 April 1945.
This officer as a flying instructor and
presently as Examining Officer has been outstanding in the execution of his
duties . By his quiet determination,
cheerfulness and efficiency he has been a continuous source of inspiration to
junior instructors and trainees. Flight
Lieutenant Armstrong has devoted every effort in obtaining the best results
from the pupils under his charge which has been exemplified in the many
excellent pilots trained by him.
ARMSTRONG, F/L Frederick Finlay (J87608) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.76 Squadron - Award effective 5 July 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 17 July 1945 and AFRO 1558/45 dated 5 October 1945. Born in Collingwood, Ontario, 1918; home in
Owen Sound. Labourer, clerk, and ex-RCA;
enlisted in Galt, 14 February 1941. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 31 July
1942), No.7 EFTS (graduated 6 November 1942) and No.9 SFTS (graduated 6 April
1943). Presented with award 22 June
1949. Photo PL-42062 shows him having a
snowball fight with F/L K.B. Inglis; PL-44281 with F/O "Bus" Corbett,
recently released from a POW camp. No
citation other than "in recognition of gallantry and devotion to duty in
the execution of air operations against the enemy". Public Records Office Air 2/9081 has
recommendation dated 18 March 1945 when he had flown 39 sorties (196
operational hours), 25 July 1944 to 23 February 1945.
25 Jul 44 Foret
du Croc (3.45) 15 Oct 44 Wilhelmshaven (4.35)
28 Jul 44 Foret
de Nieppe 23 Oct 44 Essen (5.25)
(3.50) 28
Oct 44 Westkapelle (3.25)
3 Aug 44 Bois
de Casson 30 Oct
44 Cologen (6.00)
(4.25) 31
Oct 44 Cologne (5.15)
5 Aug 44 Foret
de Nieppe 16 Nov 44 Julich (4.45)
(3.05) 21
Nov 44 Sterkrade (6.05)
7 Aug 44 TOTALIZE
III (4.05) 2 Dec 44 Hagen (6.35)
17 Aug 44 Brest
(4.55) 6
Dec 44 Osnabruck (5.45)
18 Aug 44 Sterkrade
(4.45) 18 Dec 44 Duisburg (6.30)
25 Aug 44 Pons
Corff (5.20) 2 Jan
45 Ludwigshaven (6.50)
27 Aug 44 Hamburg
(4.05) 5 Jan 45 Hanover (5.20)
1 Sept 44 La
Pourchante (4.00) 6 Jan 45 Hannau (6.30)
3 Sept 44 Soesterburh
(3.40) 16 Jan 45 Magdeburg (6.05)
12 Sep 44 Gelsenkirchen
(4.30) 1 Feb 45 Mainz (6.10)
15 Sep 44 Kiel
(5.55) 2
Feb 45 Wanne Eickel (5.00)
25 Sep 44 Calais
(3.45) 4 Feb
45 Bonn (5.55)
26 Sep 44 Calais
(3.35) 7 Feb
45 Goch (5.50)
27 Sep 44 Calais
(3.30) 9 Feb
45 Wanne Eickel (5.45)
6 Oct 44 Scholven
(4.35) 20 Feb 45 Reizholz (7.00)
14 Oct 44 Duisburg
(4.50) 23 Feb 45 Essen (5.00)
Flight Lieutenant Armstrong as captain of a
heavy bomber has completed 39 operations against Germany and enemy occupied
territory. He has attacked such heavily
defended targets as Magdeburg, Essen, Duisburg and Hanover, and has at all
times shown determination and resource.
His skill and courage has won great praise and his example has
greatly inspired his crew.
*
* * * *
ARMSTRONG, Sergeant Grace Louise (W316648) - British
Empire Medal - RCAF Overseas Headquarters - Award effective 13 June 1946 as
per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 660/46 dated 5 July 1946. Home in Ottawa; enlisted there 7 January
1944. Presented with award 9 December
1947. Photo PL-38678 showed her after
investiture with her mother and Mrs. J.K. Hardy (friend); caption said she was
now studying voice at Royal Conservatory of Music.
This non-commissioned officer is presently
employed as a non-commissioned officer in charge of the Orderly Room at the Air
Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Royal Canadian Air Force Overseas
Headquarters. She enlisted in the
Women's Division of the Royal Canadian Air Force on the 7th January 1944, with
the rank of Acting Corporal, having been employed as a civilian in the office
of the Chief of the Air Staff at Air Force Headquarters, Ottawa. Sergeant Armstrong has been admirably
equipped for her service with the Royal Canadian Air Force and has brought to
her job an infinite capacity for hard work, which together with her outstanding
initiative and well above average intelligence, has made her work exceptionally
commendable.
ARMSTRONG, FS (now P/O) Herbert Tuxis Berry
(R95996/J18212) - Distinguished Flying Medal - No.138 Squadron - Award
effective 4 October 1943 as per London Gazette dated 15 October 1943 and
AFRO 2610/43 dated 17 December 1943. Born at Lake Canoe, Ontario, 1920; home in
Ottawa; clerk, enlisted in Ottawa 26 April 1941. Trained at No.3 ITS (graduated 27 July 1941),
No.11 EFTS (graduated 12 September 1941) and No.8 SFTS (graduated 5 December
1941). News story of 6 February 1943
says his Halifax crew were all BCATP graduates - F/O Phil Atkinson, Newcastle,
England (pilot), Sergeant Ken Collopy, Frobisher, Saskatchewan (flight
engineer), P/O "Andy" Hardy, Windsor, Ontario (navigator), Sergeant
R.M. Reilly, Montreal (bomb aimer and front gunner), Sergeant Norman Weiller, Seward, Nebraska
(mid-upper gunner), Sergeant George McCallum, Holden, Nova Scotia (wireless
operator), and Armstrong (described as rear gunner; this is obviously wrong as
his training and photo all point to being a pilot). Engaged then on convoy patrols. News stories from Ottawa papers, May 1944
and January 1945 indicate later flying on bomber operations and delivering
supplies to Resistance; came home once with bits of trees in wing tips. Ended overseas service by instructing at a
Canadian Heavy Conversion Unit.
This airman has completed many operational
sorties. The high degree of success
attained has been largely due to his untiring efforts while cheerfulness and
devotion to duty have been reflected in the keenness displayed by his
crew. On one occasion he was detailed on
a search in the North Sea and located a dinghy containing nine men. Although only fifty miles from the enemy
coast and exposed to attacks by enemy fighters he remained with the dinghy for
five hours. The crew was subsequently
rescued.
ARMSTRONG, WO1 Ivan Stewart (R114144) - Mention in Despatches - No.190 Squadron (AFRO gives unit only as "Overseas") - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 155/46 dated 15 February 1946. Born at Simcoe, Ontario, 20 March 1920. Home in Niagara Falls, Ontario where he attended the Niagra Falls Vocational Institute; enlisted Hamilton, 30 June 1941 for General Duties, serving at Station Sydney. Remustered for aircrew, 5 December 1942. Trained at No.9 BGS (graduated 5 March 1943). Further trained at No.34 OTU. Arrived in UK, 4 June 1943; to No.13 OTU, 17 August 1943; to Stoney Cross, 21 October 1943; to No.299 Squadron, 4 November 1943; to No.190 Squadron, 22 February 1944; repatriated 6 June 1945; released 2 August 1945. On 9 May 1945 he filled a form describing his overseas service as follows: one tour (27 sorties, 145 hours 25 minutes operational time, last sortie on 10 April 1945) plus 268 hours 30 minutes non-operational time. He reported 17 hours 20 minutes on Mitchells, 42 hours 35 minutes on Venturas and 354 hours on Stirlings (glider towing).
ARMSTRONG, FS John Gordon (R98558) - British
Empire Medal - AFHQ, Directorate of Financial Services (and now No.4 SFTS).
- Award effective 8 June 1944 as per London Gazette of that date and
RCAF Routine Order 1380/44 dated 30 June 1944.
Born in Scott, Saskatchewan; educated in Saskatoon and Alliston,
Ontario; enlisted in RCAF in Saskatoon, 17 March 1941. Presented with award 16 February 1945.
This NCO's duties in charge of the Estimates
Staff in the Accounts Section, have been most complex and voluminous. He has
been required to work at very considerable pressure over long periods of time,
and has given of himself unstintingly in the execution of the work set before
him. He has set an excellent example of
industry and devotion to duty.
ARMSTRONG, F/L Leslie Irvin (J6646) - Commended
for Valuable Services - No.5 SFTS - Award effective 8 June 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1380/44 dated 30 June 1944 - Born in Blaine
Lake, Saskatchewan; educated there, Prince Albert, and Ridley College,
St.Catharines. Enlisted in Toronto, 17
December 1940. Trained at No.1 ITS
(graduated 10 April 1941), No.1 EFTS (graduated 28 May 1941) and No.5 SFTS
(received wings 8 August 1941).
Described as having flown 1,622.30 hours to date, 1,400.40 as
instructor, 221.40 hours in previous six months.
This flying instructor has served as a flight
commander for the past year, during which time he has maintained a high standard
of training and has operated his flight in a thoroughly efficient and exemplary
manner. His continued efforts and
success in his work have been outstanding.
ARMSTRONG, P/O Lloyd George (J92448) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.78 Squadron - Award effective 5 July 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 20 July 1945 and AFRO 1619/45 dated 19 October 1945. Born in Oxford County, Ontario, 1917; home in
Ingersoll where he was a grocery clerk.
Served with Royal Canadian Artillery before joining RCAF in London, 9
March 1942. Trained at No.6 ITS
(graduated 4 December 1942), No.5 BGS (graduated 6 August 1943) and No.1 CNS
(graduated 17 September 1943). Commissioned
November 1944. Presented with award 14
June 1949. No citation other than
"completed... numerous operations against the enemy in the course of which
[he has] invariably displayed the utmost fortitude, courage and devotion to
duty". Public Records Office Air
2/9083 has recommendation dated 18 March 1945 when he had flown 35 sorties (185
hours 23 minutes), 26 August 1944 to 5 March 1945.
26 Aug 44 Homburg
(4.23 5 Dec 44 Soest (5.43)
1 Sept 44 Lumbres
(3.30) 6 Dec 44 Osnabruck (5.58)
3 Sept 44 Soesterburg
(3.44) 14 Dec 44 GARDENING (5.41)
10 Sep 44 Le
Havre (3.57) 18
Dec 44 Duisburg (6.09)
11 Sep 44 GARDENING
(5.20) 26 Dec 44 St.Vith (6.09)
12 Sep 44 Munster
(4.09) 6 Jan 45 Hanau (6.16)
15 Sep 44 Kiel
(5.23) 12
Jan 45 GARDENING (5.50)
20 Sep 44 Calais
(3.36) 14 Jan
45 Dulmen (6.06)
25 Sep 44 Calais
(3.54) 16 Jan
45 Magdeburg (6.05)
14 Oct 44 Duisburg
(4.24) 14 Feb 45 GARDENING (6.23)
15 Oct 44 Duisburg
(5.25) 17 Feb 45 Wesel (5.07)
23 Oct 44 Essen
(5.38) 20
Feb 45 Reisholz (6.16)
25 Oct 44 Essen
(4.36) 23
Feb 45 Essen (4.54)
29 Oct 44 Westkapelle
(3.03) 27 Feb 45 Mainz (5.51)
2 Nov 44 Dusseldorf
(5.18) 2 Mar 45 Cologne (5.14)
6 Nov 44 Gelsenkirchen
(4.35) 3 Mar 45 Kamen (5.58)
21 Nov 44 Sterkrade
(6.52) 5 Mar 45 Chemnitz (8.14)
29 Nov 44 Essen
(5.51)
This officer has now completed his first
operational tour consisting of 35 sorties (134 points) involving a total of 185
hours.
He has always shown great keenness for
operations and much of the success attained by the very good crew of which he
is a member is due to his efficiency as an Air Bomber. He has always shown a high degree of courage,
skill and initiative.
For his good operational record whilst on this
squadron and his devotion to duty he is strongly recommended for the award of
the Distinguished Flying Cross.
*
* * * *
ARMSTRONG, Flying Officer Myrtle Eileen
(C14619) - Associate, Royal Red Cross - RCAF Station Torbay - awarded 1
January 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 89/45 dated 19
January 1945. Enlisted at Ottawa, 17
June 1942; home in Braeside, Ontario.
Presented with award 17 May 1945.
This Nursing Sister has carried out her duties
with the utmost skill and unflagging perseverance, setting an example for hard
work and diligence to all those working with her. Her leadership has played a large part in the
efficient functioning of all hospital assistants at this station. She has been responsible for the organization
of a reception crash ward and emergency routine, which she has directed with
outstanding ability when accident cases have been received. On one occasion, during a blizzard, she
proceeded into the bush country to render assistance to civilians who were
unable to obtain medical attention. In
emergencies, she performs her duties with calmness and efficiency and at all
times exemplifies the noblest qualities of her profession.
*
* * * *
ARMSTRONG, F/L Norman Henry (J22801) - Distinguished
Flying Cross -No.103 Squadron - Award effective 30 October 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 6 November 1945 and AFRO 155/46 dated 15 February 1946. Born in Vancouver, 1922, home there. Educated UBC (COTC), truck driver; enlisted
Vancouver 27 August 1941. Trained at
No.4 ITS (graduated 16 January 1942), No.5 EFTS (graduated 27 March 1942) and
No.12 SFTS (graduated 31 July 1942).
Commissioned 1942. Medal sent by
registered mail 16 May 1950. No citation
other than "completed...numerous operations against the enemy in the
course of which [he has] displayed the utmost fortitude, courage and devotion
to duty." Public Records Office Air
2/9131 has recommendation dated 24 April 1945 when he had flown 30 sorties (197
hours 30 minutes), 21 November 1944 to 13 April 1945.
21 Nov 44 Aschaffenburg 13 Feb 45 Dresden
17 Dec 44 Ulm
14
Feb 45 GARDENING
22 Dec 44 Koblenz
18 Feb 45 GARDENING
28 Dec 44 Munchen
Gladbach 1 Mar 45 Mannheim
29 Dec 44 Scholven
Buer 11 Mar 45 Essen
31 Dec 44 Osterfeld 12 Mar 45 Dortmund
2 Jan 45 Nuremburg 13 Mar 45 Herne
5 Jan 45 Hanover 15 Mar 45 Misburg
7 Jan 45 Munich 16 Mar 45 Nuremburg
28 Jan 45 Zussenhausen 19 Mar 45 Hanau
1 Feb 45 Ludwigshaven 21 Mar 45 Bremen
2 Feb 45 Wiesbaden 24 Mar 45 Dortmund
4 Feb 45 GARDENING 27 Mar 45 Paderborn
7 Feb 45 Cleve 4 Apr 45 GARDENING
8 Feb 45 Politz 13 Apr 45 GARDENING
Flight Lieutenant Armstrong was posted to
No.103 Squadron on 18th November, 1944.
Since then he has completed 30 sorties on Lancaster aircraft with a
total of 197.30 hours operational flying.
In the course of these numerous sorties
extending over a period of six months, this Canadian officer has taken part in
attacks on a wide variety of targets including oil plants such as Misburg,
Politz and Ludwigshaven, important industrial centres, e.g. Nuremburg, Essen,
Dortmund, Bremen. The majority of these
raids have taken place at night and on most of them strong enemy opposition was
encountered.
In addition to the bomber raids referred to,
Flight Lieutenant Armstrong has proved himself to be an outstanding minelayer
in a squadron very experienced in this sphere of operations.
Throughout his tour Flight Lieutenant
Armstrong has displayed notable skill and determination in attacking his
targets. He is an excellent pilot who
has shown himself to be a fine leader of his crews, the accuracy and precision
of whose work has been revealed in the many excellent bombing photographs they
have obtained. He has never allowed
enemy opposition, no matter how strong, to deter him from pressing home his
attack and his devotion to duty and fine offensive spirit have been am
inspiration to his crew.
I strongly recommend that his excellent work
as captain of aircraft in this squadron be recognized by the award of the
Distinguished Flying Cross.
ARMSTRONG, F/L Robert Ludlam (J14829) - Commended
for Valuable Services - No. 9 Bombing and Gunnery School - Award effective
1 January 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 89/45 dated
19 January 1945. Enlisted at Moncton, 17
October 1941; trained at No.1 SFTS (graduated 9 October 1942).
This flying instructor has displayed
exceptional qualities of skill and devotion to duty, particularly when
conditions have been most trying. At all
times his cheerfulness, initiative and good leadership have been an inspiration
to the personnel serving under him.
These outstanding qualities have made a marked contribution to the
efficiency of this station.
ARMSTRONG, F/O Stanley William (J13824) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.405 Squadron - Award effective 24 May 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1444/44 dated 7 July 1944. Born in 1923; home in Winnipeg. Enlisted 1941. Trained at No.4 ITS, No.16 EFTS and No.7
AOS. Commissioned 1942. No citation other than "completed...many
successful operations against the enemy in which [he has] displayed high skill,
fortitude and devotion to duty".
Public Records Office Air 2/9149 has recommendation dated 23 February
1944 when he had completed 42 sorties (361 hours 25 minutes), 24 February 1943
to 19 February 1944 as follows:
24 Feb 43 Wilhelmshaven
(6.15) 17 Aug 43 Cap Sulvero (5.45)
26 Feb 43 Cologne
(5.10) 19
Aug 43 Foggia (7.00)
27 Feb 43 Frisians
(4.55) 24
Aug 43 Bagnoli (5.30)
28 Feb 43 St.Nazaire
(4.45) 26 Aug
43 Taranto (6.45)
5 Mar 43 Essen
(5.20) 31
Aug 43 Salerno (6.15)
12 Mar 43 Essen
(1.20, aborted) 3 Sept
43 Capodichino (5.40)
26 Mar 43 Duisburg
(5.45) 6
Sept 43 Battipaglia (5.55)
10 Apr 43 Frankfurt
(7.40) 8
Sept 43 Battipaglia (6.35)
14 Apr 43 Stuttgart
(7.20) 11
Sep 43 Fresinone airfield
16 Apr 43 Mannheim
(6.30) (5.30)
1 June 43 Ras
Elmar (8.40) 13
Sep 43 Pompeii Roads
12 Jul 43 Enna,
Sicily (5.30) (6.05)
15 Jul 43 San
Giovanni (5.50) 14
Sep 43 Eboli (6.30)
16 Jul 43 Capodichino
a/f (6.20) 16 Sep 43 Cisterna airfield
20 Jul 43 Naples
(6.00) (6.10)
21 Jul 43 Capodichino
a/f (6.40) 18 Sep 43 Viterbo a/f (6.25)
3 Aug 43 Paola
(6.20) 20
Sep 43 Benevento (6.05)
4 Aug 43 Messina
(6.05) 6
Jan 44 Stettin (8.05)
6 Aug 43 Naples
(6.15) 14
Jan 44 Brunswick (5.00)
9 Aug 43 Beach
straf (5.50) 20
Jan 44 Berlin (7.10)
11 Aug 43 Beach
straf (5.20) 21
Jan 44 Magdeburg (6.30)
14 Aug 43 Beach
straf (5.40) 15
Feb 44 Berlin (7.00)
15 Aug 43 Viterbo
(6.20) 19
Feb 44 Leipzig (6.25)
This officer is an excellent navigator who has
completed almost two tours of operations.
Many of his operational sorties were carried out against heavily
defended enemy targets such as Berlin, Hamburg and Mannheim. This officer, on many occasions, came under
heavy fire, but in spite of personal danger, carried out his missions in a most
commendable manner, which has acted as an incentive to those less experienced
than himself. Strongly recommended for
the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.
*
* * * *
ARMSTRONG, F/L William Albert (J8128) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.407 Squadron - Award effective 1 September 1943 as per London
Gazette dated 10 September 1943 and AFRO 2138/43 dated 22 October
1943. Born at Kinburn, Ontario, 1916.
Educated at Queens University (BA, 1937); taught school at Carp, Ontario;
enlisted Ottawa 16 December 1940.
Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 12 May 1941), No.4 BGS (graduated 14
September 1941), No.4 AOS (graduated 4 August 1941 and No.2 ANS (graduated 15
October 1941. DHist file 181.009 D.1636
(RG.24 Vol.20604) has application for Operational Wings submitted about
February 1944. Claimed 500 hours total
flying, 205 hours operational hours, 25 sorties on Hudsons (anti-shipping), 20
sorties on Wellingtons (anti-submarine).
Instructing at No.6 OTU, Silloth, 21 August to November 1943 when
repatriated to Canada. Joined No.3 OTU,
Patricia Bay, 5 January 1944; invested there with DFC by A/V/M Heakes, 19
January 1945. Attended Queens University
in postwar (B.Sc., Mechanical Engineering, 1948) and then became an industrial
engineer. Died 25 December 1992 at
Beloit, West Indies.
This officer has been engaged almost
continuously on operations since January 1942.
He has participated in many low level attacks against enemy shipping and
his crew has been responsible for sinking two merchant ships. Flight Lieutenant Armstrong has also been
employed as navigator on anti-submarine patrols. As squadron bombing leader, his work has been
largely responsible for the high efficiency of his own and other crews in the
squadron.
*
* * * *
ARMSTRONG, P/O William Norman (J18086) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.172 Squadron - Award effective 17 January 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 8 February 1944 and AFRO 644/44 dated 24 March 1944. Born in Summerland, B.C., 1920; home in West
Summerland. Enlisted in Vancouver, 21
May 1941. Trained at No.4 ITS (graduated
16 August 1941), No.18 EFTS (graduated 10 October 1941) and No.15 SFTS
(graduated 27 February 1942). To Britain, 29 March 1942. Further trained at No.12 (P) AFU (18 May to
13 July 1942), No.7 PRC (13 July to 1 September 1942), No.7 (C) OTU (1
September 1942 to 21 January 1943) and No.172 Squadron (21 January 1943 to 22
January 1944). Returned to UK, 22
January 1944; to No.6 OTU, Chivenor, 1 August 1944; to Canada, 30 April 1945;
released 23 August 1945. Medal presented
18 October 1947.
One night this officer was pilot of an
aircraft which sighted a fully surfaced U-Boat.
Pilot Officer Armstrong immediately went into the attack and straddled
the vessel with depth charges. Despite
heavy fire from the submarine's guns Pilot Officer Armstrong made two more runs
over the vessel and released more depth charges from a very low level. This officer displayed great skill, courage
and determination.
ARNE, F/O Ira Clifford (J38580) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.11 (BR) Squadron - Award effective 7 July 1945 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1291/45 dated 10 August 1945. Home in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan; enlisted
there 6 June 1941. Trained at No.2 ITS
(graduated 8 September 1941), No.7 AOS (graduated 28 February 1942), No.3 BGS (graduated
11 April 1942) and No.1 ANS (graduated 11 May 1942). As of recommendation he
had flown 1,410 hours, 992 of them operational (120 sorties). Award presented 9 July 1949. No citation in AFRO other than "in
recognition of valuable services in the air." Following from DHist files:
Flying Officer Arne has completed two tours of
operations over the North Atlantic during which time he has always shown the
greatest keenness to seek out the enemy no matter how trying or hazardous the
task. His precise navigation has always
been held in high regard and on one occasion was directly responsible for an
attack on an enemy submarine. His great
enthusiasm and devotion to duty at all times have been most praiseworthy.
ARNETT, FS (now P/O) James Lawrence
(R190749/J95337) - Air Force Medal - No.436 Squadron - Award effective 7
September 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 1647/45 dated
26 October 1945. Home in Priceville,
Ontario; enlisted Toronto 8 September 1942)
Trained at No.4 ITS (graduated 28 June 1943), No.5 EFTS (graduated 20
August 1943) and No.3 SFTS (graduated 10 December 1943). Medal presented 18 October 1947.
This airman is a keen pilot and captain of
aircraft. His enthusiasm, keenness and
devotion to duty have been an inspiration to all aircrew. The manner in which he has carried out his
flying duties are most praiseworthy. He
is undoubtedly one of the most efficient pilots in his squadron.
ARNILL, P/O William Robert (J90157) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.408 Squadron - Award effective 5 July 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 20 July 1945 and AFRO 1619/45 dated 19 October 1945. Born in Fredericton, New Brunswick, April
1915; home in Dundalk, Ontario. Garage
man, enlisted in Toronto, 6 July 1942.
Trained at No.6 ITS (graduated 4 December 1942) and No.1 AOS (graduated
25 June 1943). Commissioned September
1944. Medal presented 22 October
1948. Photo PL-19391 shows him with
Sergeant Aubrey Miller at embarkation.
No citation other than "completed...numerous operations against the
enemy in the course of which [he has] invariably displayed the utmost
fortitude, courage and devotion to duty".
DHist file 181.009 D.2618 (RG.24 Vol.20627) has recommendation dated 22
March 1945 when flown 31 sorties (159 hours 20 minutes), 12 August 1944 to 14
January 1945.
Pilot Officer Arnill has now completed a tour
of operations against the enemy on heavy bombers as navigator. He has penetrated deep into the heart of
Germany on many occasions, and as been over such heavily defended targets as
Saarbrucken, Kiel, Duisburg, Dortmund and Dusseldorf. On many occasions Pilot Officer Arnill
displayed great courage and by his very efficient navigation was responsible
for the safe return of his crew and aircraft.
He has at all times proven himself to be a superior navigator and with
his cheerful disregard for any difficulties was an inspiration to all his crew
members. His splendid record fully
warrants the award of the Non-Immediate Distinguished Flying Cross.
ARNOLD, F/O Alfred Joseph (J21168) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.419 Squadron - Award effective 9 January 1945 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 471/45 dated 16 March 1945. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, 1921. Home there; enlisted there 11 March
1942. Trained at No.6 ITS (graduated 14
August 1942), No.4 BGS (graduated 9 October 1942) and No.10 AOS (graduated 20
November 1942). Commissioned 1942. Medal sent by registered mail 30 March 1949.
As air bomber, this officer has participated
in a large number of bombing missions, many of them against strongly defended
targets in Germany. Throughout he has
displayed the highest standard of determination and devotion to duty and his
excellent work has contributed materially to the successes obtained. On a recent occasion a short circuit in the
bombing gear caused a fire to start in the bomb aimer's compartment. Despite this, Flying Officer Arnold coolly
directed the bombing run and not until the bombs had been released did he turn
his attention towards extinguishing the fire.
ARNOLD, F/L Charles Keever (J21404) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.541 Squadron - Award effective 27 April 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 8 May 1945 and AFRO 966/45 dated 8 June 1945. American in the RCAF. Born 1913 in West Virginia; home in
Parkersburg, West Virginia. Photographer
in civil life; enlisted in Hamilton, 12 August 1941. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 8 May 1942),
No.21 EFTS (graduated 14 August 1942) and No.8 SFTS (graduated 4 December
1942). Medal presented 30 April 1948.
This officer is an able and successful
pilot. His record in photographic
reconnaissance has been consistently excellent.
In December 1944 he completed a survey of an area involving a long
period of flying in the face of great danger.
Flight Lieutenant Arnold has always been keen to evolve new methods and
to improve efficiency as a photographic pilot.
Throughout his operational career this officer has inspired his fellow
pilots by his keenness and courage and has been a great asset to the squadron.
ARNOLD, F/O Harold Frederick (J24304) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.49 Squadron - Award effective 1 December 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 8 December 1944 and AFRO 337/45 dated 23 February 1945. Home in Vancouver where he was a sign and
showcard writer. Enlisted in Vancouver,
8 April 1942. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated
29 August 1942), No.2 EFTS (graduated 4 December 1942) and No.12 SFTS
(graduated 1 June 1943). Commissioned
1943. Moved to San Francisco after the
war; medal presented via Department of External Affairs, 5 August 1955. Photo PL-34798 is formal portrait. No citation other than "..in recognition
of gallantry and devotion to duty in the execution of air operations against
the enemy." Public Records Office
Air 2/8881 has recommendation dated 19 September 1944 when he had flown 32
sorties (176 hours 55 minutes), 9 May to 29 August 1944.
*
denotes daylight sortie
9 May 44 Gennevilliers
(4.20) 18 Jul 44 Revigny (5.05)
19 May 44 Amiens
(3.55) 20 Jul
44 Courtrai (3.15)
21 May 44 Duisburg
(4.55) 23 Jul 44 Kiel (4.50)
22 May 44 Brunswick
(6.20) 24 Jul 44 Donges (5.35)
27 May 44 Morsalines
(3.35) 26 Jul 44 Givors (9.05)
2 June 44 Wimereux
(3.45) 7 Aug 44 Sequeville (3.50)
5 June 44 La
Pernelle (4.35) 9 Aug
44 Chatellerault (6.30)
6 June 44 Caen
(4.30) 10
Aug 44 Bordeaux (7.10)
21 Jun 44 Wesseling
(4.35) 11 Aug 44 Givors (8.40)
24 Jun 44 Pommerval
(3.50) 14 Aug 44 Quesnay (3.40)*
27 Jun 44 Marguise
(3.15) 15 Aug 44 Deelan (4.00)*
4 July 44 Creil
(3.55) 16
Aug 44 Stettin (7.40)
7 July 44 Creil
(4.25) 18
Aug 44 L'Isle Adam (4.25)*
12 Jul 44 Culmont
Chalindrey 25 Aug 44 Darmstadt (8.35)
(8.00) 26
Aug 44 Konigsburg (9.40)
15 Jul 44 Nevers
(7.30) 29 Aug
44 Konigsburg (9.40)
17 Jul 44 Caen
(3.50)*
This officer has completed 32 operational
sorties as captain of Lancaster aircraft, taking part in operations which
included attacks on such heavily defended German targets as Brunswick, Kiel,
Stettin, Duisburg and Konigsburg (twice) and in precision attacks on French
targets by day and night. On one
occasion his aircraft was attacked and damaged by an enemy fighter which was
driven away by accurate machine gun fire and the damaged aircraft skilfully
flown back to Base.
In spite of the heaviest opposition, Flight
Lieutenant Arnold has at all times pressed home his attacks and shown a very
high standard of courage and devotion to duty.
For the skill and thoroughness with which he
has carried out any duty allocated to him and for his courage and devotion to
duty I strongly recommend that he be awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.
ARNOT, F/L Donald MacKenzie (J13470) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.427 Squadron - Award effective 10 January 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 18 January 1944 and AFRO 410/44 dated 25 February 1944. Born in Toronto, 1918; home there; enlisted
Toronto, 13 August 1940. Trained at No.2
ITS (graduated 27 October 1943), No.14 EFTS (graduated 22 December 1940) and
No.1 SFTS (graduated 17 March 1941).
Commissioned 1942. Killed in
action 21 January 1944. Medal presented
28 February 1946. Photo PL-22550 showed
him at post-raid interrogation with F/L Elleker (Arnot wears hat and faces
camera); PL-22648 shows W/C R.S. Turnbull, S/L Arnot and FS A.J. King; PL-26013
seated at desk; PL-37588 shows his next of kin after receiving medal. No citation other than "completed...many
successful operations against the enemy in which [he has] displayed high skill,
fortitude and devotion to duty." Public
Records Office Air 2/9153 has recommendation dated 19 November 1943 when he had
flown 20 sorties (136 hours 48 minutes) and was a Flight Commander in his unit.
11 June 43 Dusseldorf
(4.50) 12 Aug
43 Milan (9.50)
12 June 43 Bochum
(5.28) 17
Aug 43 Peenemunde (7.30)
19 June 43 Le
Creusot (7.30) 22
Aug 43 Leverkusen (5.10)
28 June 43 Cologne
(4.05) 23
Aug 43 Berlin (7.15)
2 July 43 GARDENING
(4.30) 27 Aug 43 Nuremburg (8.20)
9 July 43 Gelsenkirchen
(7.10) 31 Aug 43 Berlin (7.35)
13 July 43 Aachen
(5.30) 6
Sept 43 Munich (8.30)
24 July 43 Hamburg
(5.45) 15
Sept 43 Montlucon (6.55)
29 July 43 Hamburg
(6.35) 8 Oct
43 Hanover (5.10)
30 July 43 Remscheid
(5.30) 11 Nov 43 Cannes (9.55)
9 Aug 43 Mannheim
(3.45, DNCO)
Flight Lieutenant Arnot has successfully
completed a large number of bombing sorties against some of the strongest
defended targets in Germany. This officer has always shown great keenness and
determination on all of these attacks and his devotion to duty has been an
inspiration and an example to his crew and squadron.
ARNOTT, WO Morley Albert (R137690) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.35 Squadron - Award effective 10 May 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1296/44 dated 16 June 1944. Born in Barrie, Ontario, 1922; home in Barrie
or Toronto. Student before enlisting in
Halifax, 13 November 1941. Trained at
No.2 BGS (graduated 20 February 1942).
Later commissioned (J88750).
Medal presented 22 November 1948.
No citation other than "...completed...many successful operations
against the enemy in which [he has] displayed high skill, fortitude and
devotion to duty." Photo PL-34008
shows him with F/L D.L.G. Turvey.
ARROWSMITH, FS Joseph Camp (R84654) - British
Empire Medal - RCAF Overseas Headquarters - Award effective 13 June 1946 as
per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 660/46 dated 5 July 1946. Home in Saint John, New Brunswick; enlisted
in Moncton, 21 January 1941 (card - but see citation. Chances are the citation is wrong). Medal presented 20 April 1948.
Flight Sergeant Arrowsmith enlisted 1st
January 1941 and proceeded overseas in October 1942. He was store keeper at No.426 Squadron, where
his excellent work as an Equipment Assistant obtained for him a Senior non-commissioned
officer position in the Royal Canadian Air Force Auxiliary Services
Warehouse. He has been largely
responsible for the excellent system of recording undeliverable parcels and
disposing of their contents to Royal Canadian Air Force units throughout the
United Kingdom and further afield. In
January 1944, he became the Senior non-commissioned officer in charge of the
Warehouse where his handling of the staff and maintenance of records has been
noteworthy.
ARTHUR, F/O Robert John (J19798) - Mention
in Despatches - No.145 (BR) Squadron - Award effective 7 July 1945 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1291/45 dated 10 August 1945. Enlisted in Niagara Falls, Ontario, 22 July
1940. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 30
September 1940), No.2 WS (graduated 17 February 1941) and No.4 BGS (graduated
16 March 1941).
This officer has carried out extensive
operations both at home and abroad and has taken part in anti-shipping strikes
were intense enemy opposition has been encountered. Both in this work and in his anti-submarine
operations off the Canadian East Coast his enthusiasm and devotion to duty have
been exemplary.
ARTZ, LAC Edward David Gerald (R176503) - Mention
in Despatches - Linton-on-Ouse -
Award effective 14 June 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO
1647/45 dated 26 October 1945. Home in
Middleton, Nova Scotia; enlisted in Digby, Nova Scotia, 23 June 1942. AFRO gives unit only as "Overseas";
DHist file 181.009 D.1725 (PAC RG.24 Vol 20607) has list of MiDs this date with
unit. DHist file 181.009 D.1719 (PAC RG.24 Vol.20606) has recommendation
forwarded 3 February 1945 when he had served one year in Canada, 18 months
overseas.
This Radar Mechanic has proven himself to be
an outstanding technician and performs his duties with exemplary
diligence. By virtue of these qualities
this airman contributes in no small manner to the efficiency of his section and
commands the respect of his officer, NCOs and comrades.
ARVANETES, P/O George (J93515) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.425 Squadron - Award effective 8 September 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 25 September 1945 and AFRO 1768/45 dated 23 November
1945. Born 1925 in Montreal, Quebec;
home there (bench fitter, office boy and ex-RCA*). Trained at No.9 BGS. Commissioned January 1945. Photo PL-48253 taken after investiture in
Montreal.
Pilot Officer Arvanetes has completed numerous
operational sorties. In October 1944 he
was detailed for an attack against Dortmund.
While over the target his aircraft was attacked by an enemy
fighter. Pilot Officer Arvanetes
manipulated his guns with great skill and drove the enemy off. His cool courage and devotion to duty have
always been worthy of the highest praise.
ASH, WO2 Ernest James (R222529) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.433 Squadron - Award effective 8 September 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 25 September 1945 and AFRO 1768/45 dated 23 November
1945. Born 1925; home in Montreal;
enlisted there 4 August 1943. Trained at
No.9 BGS (graduated 25 February 1944).
Medal presented in Montreal 25 November 1949. See also WO2 Victor M. Ruthig.
The courage and skill displayed by this air
gunner on all operations have been worthy of the highest praise. During a daylight attack on Hamburg his
aircraft was subjected to five consecutive attacks by enemy fighters. With the help of the upper gunner, Warrant
Officer Ash managed to fight off the attackers and one enemy aircraft was seen
diving towards the earth. Throughout,
this Warrant Officer has shown a fine fighting spirit and keen devotion to
duty.
ASH, Sergeant Robert Joseph (R94216) - Mention in Despatches - No.50 Squadron - Award effective 14 January 1944 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 874/44 dated 21 April 1944. Born in Montreal, 10 October 1917; home there; enlisted there 10 April 1941. Trained as a Radar Mechanic, McGill University, 1 June to 22 September 1941 and No.31 Radio School, Clinton, 23 September to 26 October 1941. Arrived overseas 23 November 1941. To No.2 Signals School, Yatesbury, 12 December 1941; to No.57 Squadron, 23 December 1941; to No.50 Squadron, 11 December 1942, attained rank of Corporal, 1 July 1942, Sergeant 18 January 1943; Flight Sergeant 18 February 1944. To No.53 Base, 9 September 1944. Repatriated 21 August 1945. Released 5 October 1945.
ASH, F/L William Franklin (J4737) - Member,
Order of the British Empire - No.411 Squadron - Award as per 4 May 1946 as
per London Gazette dated 17 May 1946 and AFRO 602/46 dated 14 June
1946. American in the RCAF. Born Dallas,
Texas, 30 November 1917; home there; educated at University of Texas (BA, 1939)
and was a bank clerk. Enlisted in
Windsor, Ontario, 22 June 1940. Trained
at No.1 ITS (graduated 14 September 1940), No.12 EFTS (graduated 29 December
1940) and No.31 SFTS (graduated 24 March 1941).
See also Mention in Despatches material for F/L J.E.T. Asselin. Released in October 1945. Insignia may not have reached him; reported
returned to Government House, 6 October 1948.
Photo PL-2746 shows Sergeant E.F. Lanagan, P/O Ash and Sergeant J.J.
Kelly on ship for overseas; PL-7163 with P/O J.A. Frith playing darts; PL-7313
in front of Spitfire; PL-4987 with P/O W.R. McNair.
Flight Lieutenant Ash crash-landed near Calais
on 24 March 1942 and made his way to Lille where arrangements were made for him
to reach Paris. He was arrested in Paris
at the end of May 1942 and imprisoned at Chubin. In September 1942, he
exchanged identities with an Army private and joined a fatigue party. He escaped from this party but was recaptured
the same night. In the spring of 1943,
Flight Lieutenant Ash and thirty-two others escaped from Chubin through a
tunnel. With a companion he tried to
reach Warsaw, but was recaptured four days later. Shortly afterwards he was transferred to
Stalag Luft III, Sagan, where he was an active member of the escape
committee. For the next twenty-one
months, when other ranks were being transferred from Sagan to Stalag Luft VI,
Heydekrug, Flight Lieutenant Ash changed his identity and accompanied
them. Under his direction a tunnel was
later made for a mass escape, but the tunnel was discovered when ten prisoners
had got away. Flight Lieutenant Ash,
nevertheless, continued the attempt and eventually gained his freedom. He boarded a goods train for Kovno, but was
discovered by station guards and returned to Sagan. He was liberated by allied forces at the end
of April, 1945.
ASHBAUGH, F/L Frederick Alexander (J15538) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.104 Squadron - Award effective 31 August 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 8 September 1944 and AFRO 2231/44 dated 13 October
1944. Born 1917 in Busby, Alberta. Home in Vancouver. Enlisted in Edmonton, 23 August 1940. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 15 November
1940), No.11 EFTS (graduated 5 January 1941) and No.9 SFTS (graduated 17 April
1941). Commissioned 1942. Served in No.168 (Heavy Transport) Squadron
in 1945 and was involved in that unit's 500th Atlantic crossing. Medal presented 24 May 1947.
This officer has taken part in a large number
of operational sorties, many of them in bad weather. His targets have included many important
centres in the Balkans. In February 1944,
Flight Lieutenant Ashbaugh successfully located the Daimlerpuch aircraft
factory at Setyr. This important factory
was heavily defended by searchlights and anti-aircraft guns, but despite this,
this pilot made two successful attacks, obtaining an excellent photograph. In an attack on Viterbo in May 1944, despite
the fact that his airspeed indicator was unserviceable, Flight Lieutenant
Ashbaugh completed a successful attack and returned safely in adverse
weather. He has always set a fine
example of gallantry and devotion to duty.
ASHCROFT, FS (now P/O) John Albert Harold
(R82435/J92439) - Distinguished Flying Medal - No.425 Squadron - Award
effective 6 January 1945 as per London Gazette dated 16 January 1945 and
AFRO 625/45 dated 13 April 1945. Born in
1920; home in Lanark, Ontario (truck driver); enlisted in Ottawa, 3 January
1941 as groundcrew; remustered to aircrew.
Trained at No.4 WS (graduated 12 July 1943) and No.2 BGS (graduated 23
August 1943). Unable to attend investiture
due to illness. Medal sent by registered
mail 20 January 1956. NOTE: name might
be Joseph Albert Harold. No
citation other than "completed...numerous operations against the enemy in
the course of which [he has] invariably displayed the utmost fortitude, courage
and devotion to duty." DHist file
181.009 D.1730 (PAC RG.24 Vol.20607) has recommendation dated 16 October 1944
when he had flown 33 sorties (151 hours):
Flight Sergeant Ashcroft, a Wireless Operator
of outstanding ability, has invariably completed his duties as Wireless
Operator with efficiency, reliability and fine fighting spirit.
He has recently completed a tour of operations
over enemy territory and has made very successful sorties over heavily defended
targets such as Hamburg, Kiel and Osnabruck.
Flight Sergeant Ashcroft's enthusiasm for
operational flying has been outstanding. His dependability coupled with his superior
knowledge have, in no small measure, been responsible for the enviable record
set up by his crew.
ASHDOWN, W/C Harry Clive (C1847) - Member,
Order of the British Empire - RCAF Overseas Headquarters - Award effective
1 January 1946 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 82/46 dated
25 January 1946 - Medal presented 10 December 1947. Secretary of Montreal Amateur Radio Club
before the war; member of staff, Sun Life Assurance. Enlisted in Montreal, 1 April 1940; appointed
Signals Officer, Patricia Bay until 1942 when he became command signals officer
based at Victoria - RCAF Overseas Headquarters, March 1944 to January 1947
where he was Chief Signals Officer.
Remained in postwar RCAF (No.11 Group, Winnipeg - AFHQ - CO Base Clinton
from April 1953 onwards). Awarded
Queen's Coronation Medal, October 1953 while Group Captain commanding
Clinton. Photo PL-67173 is a portrait
taken in June 1953.
This officer has been employed as Signals
Officer since early in 1940. His work,
enterprise and initiative have always been of the highest calibre. Whilst employed as Chief Signals Officer of
Western Air Command he was instrumental in initiating and directing a new and
more efficient signals system. He
correlated radio and land line communication into a unit system which resulted
in an improvement to air operations.
Working with insufficient staff he imbued his personnel with his own
zeal and energy to such an extent that they were able to maintain a service
throughout this difficult period. This
officer was also directly responsible for the organization of all Radar systems
on the West Coast of Canada. Its operating
efficiency was due in large measure to his personal supervision. He has served with distinction overseas with
Coastal and Transport Commands. The
excellent results this officer achieved in these appointments led to his
selection as Chief Signals Officer, Royal Canadian Air Force Overseas Headquarters.
ASHER, F/O John James (J27656) - Air Force
Cross - No.4 Squadron (Canada) - Award effective 23 February 1946 as per London
Gazette dated 5 March 1946 and AFRO 280/46 dated 15 March 1946. Home in Olivas, Argentina; enlisted in
Toronto, 6 August 1942. Trained at No.6
ITS (graduated 4 December 1942), No.20 EFTS (graduated 19 February 1943), and
No.4 SFTS (graduated 25 June 1943).
Medal presented in Buenos Aires, Argentina, 13 July 1949. As of award had flown 1,448 hours, 306 hours
in past six months, 615 operational hours (75 sorties).
This officer, subsequent to graduation as a
pilot, has been steadily employed on operational flying duties in Western Air
Command. In each successive set of Air Crew Assessment Board, air and ground
tests, he has proved to be the most outstanding bomber reconnaissance pilot of
those assessed in this command, excelling in flying ability and crew
leadership. He has been employed in this
squadron as a Flight Commander and Crew Captain, where he has at all times
displayed outstanding leadership and consistent performance of his duties to a
degree of efficiency superior to that required by the normal call of duty.
ASHFORD, S/L Herbert Elymor Dickson (C3658) - Member,
Order of the British Empire - Station Leeming [(AFRO gives unit only as
"Overseas (on special leave to Canada)] - Award effective 1 January 1944
as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 809/44 dated 14 April
1944. Home in Calgary; enlisted there 10
January 1941. Medal presented 25
September 1945. Photographs PL-18388 (conducting services), PL-28101 (services
with No.440 Squadron); PL-28676 (chatting with Miss Jesse Romney, fitter);
PL-31422 (leading hymns). Chaplain; no
citation. DHist file 181.009 D.2617
(RG.24 Vol.20627) has recommendation dated 22 February 1943; another
recommendation might have been made later in the year for services in No.331
Wing.
As Padre at Leeming, Flight Lieutenant Ashton
has rendered outstanding service. He is
held in the highest esteem by both station and squadron personnel, and is the
closest friend of all ranks. He has the
fullest appreciation of the services that can be rendered by a Chaplain in
building character, maintaining a high state of morale and in increasing the
general happiness of the individual. His
efforts to achieve these ends are unceasing and the results obtained are of
unbounded proportions.
ASHLEY, S/L Archibald Thompson (C5860) - Mention
in Despatches - EAC Headquarters - Award effective 14 June 1945 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1127/45 dated 6 July 1945. Enlisted in Ottawa, 28 June 1941. Certificate and emblem sent to Eastern Air
Command, Halifax, 27 June 1945.
This officer has served as Liaison Officer
with the Navy since 1943. At all times he
has devoted his whole attention to furthering the efficiency of the air and
surface escort forces and promoting a mutual understanding of each others
problems. He has been instrumental in
obtaining attendance for aircrews, Royal Canadian Air Force officers, and
ratings, at the Tactical School and this has clearly reflected in the improved
co-operation at sea. He has improved
considerably the chances of a combined U-Boat hunt, by sea and surface forces,
being brought to a successful conclusion.
His work at all times has been outstanding.
ASHLIN, S/L Charles Harry (C2400) - Mention
in Despatches - No.6 Group
Headquarters - Award effective 14 January 1944 as per London Gazette
of that date and AFRO 874/44 dated 21 April 1944. Home in Toronto; enlisted there 5 August
1940. No citation. Intelligence Officer;
photograph PL-15386 shows S/L W.H. Swetman, Ashlin, W/C T.C. Weir and W/C J.
Fauquier examining target map; PL-29732 shows him seated as F/O Cecily Taylor
points out dtails in photograph; others shown are F/L H.V. Bull, F/L James V.
Driver, F/O Boris Galitzine and F/L PW. Buker.
ASHTON, P/O Joel Hilton (J17890) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.137 Squadron - Award effective 22 October 1943 as per London
Gazette dated 5 November 1943 and AFRO 2507/43 dated 3 December 1943. Born in Toronto, 1920; home in Barrie,
Ontario or Virden, Manitoba; enlisted Winnipeg, 23 October 1940. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 17 March
1941), No.7 EFTS (graduated 4 May 1941) and No.1 SFTS (graduated 30 July
1941). Commissioned 1942. With No.401
Squadron at war's end; destroyed one Bf.109 on 20 April 1945. Award presented
24 June 1945. Photo PL-44891 shows F/L
W.R. Shellinton and F/L Ashton soon after investiture.
This officer has completed a very large number
of sorties including successful attacks on airfields, shipping and rail
communications. He has displayed great
skill and determination, setting an example worthy of high praise. These qualities were well illustrated on a
recent attack on an installation at Hansweert.
Pilot Officer Ashton attacked his objective from such a low level that
his aircraft was struck in several places by the flying debris.
ASMUSSEN, F/L Jerrold William (J24159) - Mention
in Despatches - No.160 (BR) Squadron - Award effective 1 December 1945 as
per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 183/46 dated 22 February
1946. Home in North Battleford; enlisted
in Saskatoon, 17 January 1942. Trained
at No.4 ITS (graduated 12 September 1942), No.19 EFTS (graduated 7 November
1942), and No.4 SFTS (graduated 19 March 1943).
Flight Lieutenant Asmussen, as a Flight
Commander, has contributed greatly to the successes of this Squadron. Flying as captain of an aircraft, he has at
all times achieved excellent results in the various tasks allotted to him. His keenness and devotion to duty are most
praiseworthy.
ASPDEN, G/C Alan Kinzie (C1387) - Officer,
Order of the British Empire - 1 Port Transit Unit - Award effective 1
January 1946 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 82/45 dated 25
January 1946. Home in Ottawa. Enlisted
in Goderich, Ontario, 8 November 1939.
This officer is ship's Commandant on His
Majesty's Ship "Queen Elizabeth" and has carried out his very
important and responsible duties with credit to himself and the Service. He has won the admiration and praise of other
authorities and permanent staffs on board ship, by his efficiency and able
leadership. He has rendered outstanding
and meritorious service.
ASSELIN, F/L Joseph Edmond Tobin (J4882) - Mention
in Despatches - No.92 Squadron - Award effective 24 December 1946 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 17/47 dated 10 January 1947. Home in Montreal; enlisted there 20 September
1940. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 31
October 1940), No.8 EFTS (graduated 22 December 1940) and No.4 SFTS (graduated
17 March 1941). Shot down 4 September 1941.
Liberated 2 May 1945 on a farm turned camp, 15 miles south of Lubeck. The
following is from a card held at DHist but whether it is a citation, summary of
recommendation, or PR release is uncertain.
Flight Lieutenant Asselin was captured at
St.Omer on 4th September 1941, and subsequently imprisoned in Poland and
Germany. He escaped three times - in March
1942 from Oflag VIB; in October 1942 from Oflag XXIB and from the same camp in
the earlier part of the following year.
Flight Lieutenant Asselin was a member of the escape committee at Stalag
Luft III from April 1943 til January 1945.
His activities in this connection have been commended by several of his
colleagues. He was liberated in May 1945
near Lubeck.
NOTE:
DHist files contain a long report on his escape activities. He was captured within a few minutes of
parachuting into a field near St.Omer.
Some peasants arrived with civilian clothes and he was changing into
these when Germans appeared. The officer
who captured him warned the peasants who were allowed to go unmolested.
His first escape was from Camp VIB, Warburg
via a tunnel planned and engineered by Flying Officer Ricks, Flying Officer
Cerny and by Asselin with the help of some 30 fellow POWs. The tunnel was built under poor conditions
(waterlogged so that a well had to be built under entrance shaft, with
home-made pump. German searches also
forced rushed completion, and the exit hole was actually in radius of light
from overhead boundary lamps. Thus,
although 40 prisoners were assembled for escape, only six made it out - Ricks,
Cerny, Asselin, Flying Officer Croll, Pilot Officer Kowslovski and Flight
Lieutenant Beauclair (in that order).
They left at 0230 hours and travelled some 15 kilometres, avoiding a few
German civilians. They took shelter to
sleep that day (he had been without sleep for 48 hours) but were awakened and
captured at mid-day by a search party.
The treatment I received after my capture on
this occasion was the roughest of any of my escapes. It included face slapping, assorted kicks, a
bayonet jab, stealing of personal belongings and on my return to camp, being
made to stand, facing the wall at attention without food or water for about 14
hours, with a guard standing over me.
The reason for the latter was that the German security officer was
furious at my unwillingness to answer questions on methods used in building and
engineering the tunnel. Also the fact
that he was unable to find any German money, maps, compasses and other escape
paraphernalia, which I had disposed of while being marched back to camp.
His second escape involved Flight Lieutenant
Ash, from Camp 21B, Schublin (spelled "Chubin" in Ash account). Exchanged identities with two orderlies to
get into working part outside the camp.
Worked on several parties to learn of topography and decided to escape
from local railway station.
Each time we left the camp on a working party,
it was necessary to carry hidden about our persons all our needs, such as food
and other escape paraphernalia. We
carried enough food to last us ten days, our plan being to get to Danzig and
stow away on a Swedish ship, in the hope of finally arriving at Sweden. We had so arranged our clothing that by
throwing away our hats and turning our tunics inside out, we had the appearance
of being civilians. The party from which
we escaped was one for the unloading of bread from station wagons in Schubin
Station itself. The plan, as it
developed, was carried out by having two of the other orderlies engage the
guards in conversation and giving them a cigarette or so while we disappeared
behind the freight truck. We then threw
away our hats and turned our tunics inside out and walked away, screened by the
trains, as civilians.
However, while we were crossing the train
bridge, on the outskirts of the station, we were spotted by a youngster of
about 15 years of age who was suspicious and we later found out, though we were
Russians who had escaped from some Russian prisoner parties a few days
previously. He gave the alarm to our
guards, who immediately telephone the camp and the local barracks from which
soldiers were immediately despatched on bicycles.
In the meantime, we attempted to reach a piece
of wooded ground which was possibly eight kilometres away from the
station. The terrain in the vicinity of
Schubin was very swampy and criss-crossed by a network of drainage canals, thus
rendering cross-country travel very difficult, and forcing us to keep to known
paths or roads.
We were captured while attempting to ford a
steam, by a party of guards on bicycles who had cut us off from the wood, about
three quarters of an hour after we left the station. On this occasion, our treatment was better,
with the exception of F/O Ash, who was hit in the face by the Schubin Station
Master, who was incensed at the thought that anyone should try to escape from his
station. We managed, however, to rid
ourselves of all our escape paraphernalia such as maps, compasses, etc. before
we were captured.
Third escape attempt involved a tunnel from
Camp XXIB, Schubin, built by Asselin with the help of 24 fellow prisoners; 33
men eventually broke out using this tunnel, which began from an outside
lavatory. It was necessary not only to
excavate the tunnel but also a holding room for escapees who would have to
secret themselves on the day of the escape, as they could not get from barracks
to tunnel entrance. The tunnel was
supplied with air through an elaborate air line made of tins plus a pump. On the day of the escape, he opened the
tunnel exit about 7.00 p.m. to allow air into the tunnel and the crowded
holding chamber, which had filled with men before 5.30 p.m. He and Ash left about 8.00 p.m., crawled
across a field without being detected, with men following at intervals until
about 30 minutes past midnight. The
Germans did not detect the escape until roll call next day (the exit itself was
concealed in a potato patch).
They were unable to discover the entrance to
the tunnel for two or three hours even after they had discovered the exit, and
to do so it was necessary for them to tie a rope around a Russian prisoner's
body and send him into the exit hole and make him go to the beginning of the
tunnel and knock on the concrete floor in the lavatories before they were able
to discover the entrance, which they did by tearing up the concrete.
Asselin and Ash headed east, hoping to link up
with Polish partisans and then be passed to Yugoslav partisans. They travelled 20 kilometres the first night,
intent on putting distance between themselves and the camp, although the marshy
ground hindered their progress. They hid
in a wood which was exhaustively searched, but evaded detection. They continued travelling on the second,
third and fourth nights, but the dragnet seemed to thicken as the enemy posted
guards at all bridges and cross roads. On
one occasion he and Ash crossed a bridge by crawling on their stomachs and evade
two guards. On many occasions they threw themselves into ditches to evade foot
and motorized patrols.
It was apparent that Germans had turned out
all possible troops in several rings around the camp to round us up. It was later discovered through our camp
intelligence and from the trend of the German interrogation after our capture,
that they were under the impression that this large break had been engineered
from England and was designed to foment rebellion amongst the Poles. In addition to the rings of guards around the
camp, the frontier guards on the Dutch, Swiss and Belgium borders were
increased and organized search parties composed of Hitler Jugend, home guards
and foresters, etc. searched all barns, haystacks, etc., for miles around the
camps. Our pictures and descriptions
appeared in police gazettes around Germany.
All trains with destinations near any border were searched periodically. I have forgotten the number of man-hours we
estimated had been lost to the German war industry, directly caused by the
tunnel and the German fear of the consequences (due, of course, to the
impression the Germans had of the reason for the escape), but it was
considerable and we deemed it well worth
while.
We were captured on the evening of the fourth
day by a Folkdeutsch policeman (Polish German) who was guarding a
station crossing about eleven o'clock at night.
He was hidden in the shadows and we did not see him until he came up
behind us and challenged us. We had no
choice but to surrender, claiming we were French workmen who had been sent to
work in the Krackau train yards and had somehow lost our way.
We had forged papers substantiating our story,
but he was adamant and it was necessary for us to accompany him to the local
Gestapo headquarters as he had had strict instructions to bring in anybody even
remotely suspicious. These orders had
been issued since the break and he was one of the special guards posted for our
apprehension. They detained us at the
Gestapo headquarters where they proceeded to identify us and where we proceeded
to destroy all our incriminating papers, compasses, maps, etc.
After they found out who we were, we were
passed through five or six jails on our journey back to the camp, always under
Gestapo or Crepo guard. The jails ranged
in importance from small local town jails to larger political ones. We were finally returned a few days later to
our own camp, where we were again questioned and searched on many occasions. During our passage through these jails, we
met numerous other prisoners of war who had been captured since the break.
Though engaged in the other aspects of
escaping organizations, camp and intercompound security, etc., tunnels remained
my special job and it was in the organizing and building of tunnels (and/or the
planning and advising in connection with tunnels) that my main work of escape
organization lay. Though being a member
of the escape committee and security committee, there were many other aspects to
camp life in relation to escape and subversive activities in which I was
engaged. In all, I worked on about 25
tunnels. I was a member of the escape
organization at Sagen from April 1943 to January 1945, in which I represented
one of the eight barracks at the meetings, proposed escape plans and passed on
other plans which had been submitted.
Also I acted as contact man for some time for the camp...to obtain
information and bribe guards into selling items which would be useful for
escaping purposes, such as German money, files, tools, local maps, train
schedules, specimen papers from which we would copy our forgeries. During incarceration in the cells as
punishment for escapes, I was able to buy, in exchange for cigarettes, many of
these articles from corrupt guards. It
was also our duty to organize stealing parties on which we would relieve the
Germans of any of their excess equipment which we thought might be useful to
us.
I designed an undershirt with specially
constructed pockets which enabled an escaping prisoner to do away with the
tell-tale haversack and carry, unnoticed about his person, from two to two and
a half weeks' supply of food.
It was also our duty to devise hidden places
for the concealing in safety of all our forbidden material. These were constructed in the walls, tables,
underground, etc.
ATKINS, F/L Clifton Clarence (J17234) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.428 Squadron - Award effective 12 November 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 16 November 1945 and AFRO 133/46 dated 8 February 1946. Born in Toronto, 1920, home there (clerk);
enlisted there 22 February 1941. Trained
at No.4 WS (graduated 22 November 1941) and No.1 BGS (graduated 23 November
1941 - impossible given close proximity of dates). Commissioned March 1943. Award sent by registered mail 28 June
1949. Photograph PL-19238 shows P/O L.G.
Wilson, Sergeant W.H. Watson (front row) and P/O D. Hackett, P/O C. Atkins,
Sergeant M.A. Dunkin, taken 3 June 1943 with No.424 Squadron. No citation other than
"completed...numerous operations against the enemy in the course of which
[he has] invariably displayed the utmost fortitude, courage and devotion to
duty." DHist file 181.009 D.1941
(RG.24 Vol.20612) has recommendation by W/C M.W. Gall dated 22 May 1945 when he
had flown 47 sorties; first tour was 30 trips (182 hours 35 minutes, 21 August
1942 to 11 April 1943 with No.425 Squadron and 28 June to 1 July 1943 with
No.424 Squadron); second tour was 17 sorties (122 hours, 4 February to 25 April
1945 with No.428 Squadron).
This officer has shown a high degree of
courage, skill and determination on operations.
His co-operation, coolness and devotion to duty have proved of incalculable
assistance to his pilot and have contributed in a large measure to the
operational efficiency of his crew.
During his two tours he has participated in
sorties on many major, well defended targets and has proved himself an
outstanding member of a gallant crew.
For his great ability, courage and devotion to
duty I recommend the non-immediate award of the D.F.C.
ATKINS, F/L Eric (J21982) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.415 Squadron - Award effective 6 January 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 16 January 1945 and AFRO 508/45 dated 23 March 1945. Born 1911 in Didsbury, Alberta; home in
Cremona, Alberta. Served five years with
RCA; teacher in civil life; enlisted in Calgary, 16 September 1939;
commissioned 1942. Trained at No.7 ITS
(graduated 24 April 1942), No.8 BGS (graduated 30 October 1942) and No.1 AOS
(graduated 18 December 1942). Remained
in postwar RCAF and trained as a pilot.
Presented with DFC and wings by Air Marshal W.A. Curtis at Station
Clinton, 21 June 1948. Photo PL-38989
shows this event. No citation other than "completed...numerous operations
against the enemy in the course of which [he has] invariably displayed the
utmost fortitude, courage and devotion to duty." DHist file 181.009 D.1750 (RG.24 Vol.20608)
has recommendation (undated, about mid-October 1944) when he had flown 21
sorties (141 hours 40 minutes) between 10 August 1943 and 18 August 1944.
NOTE: Public Record Office Air 2/9645 has recommendation for a French Croix de Guerre. Although not awarded, the text is noted for the record.
This officer has always maintained an exceptionally high standard of skill and efficiency as Air Bomber and has achieved the position of Squadron Bombing Leader. Flight Lieutenant Atkins not only participated in many bombing missions but was personally responsible for accurate bombing under most difficult circumstances. Several of his sorties were over France.
Flight Lieutenant Atkins, a member of the
Permanent Air Force in Canada, remustered from ground duties and has shown
great aptitude in leadership to such extent that he is at the present time
occupying the post of Bombing Leader of his squadron. As such he has set a magnificent example by
his keenness, courage and devotion to duty and it is most strongly recommended
that his efforts be rewarded by a Non-Immediate award of the Distinguished
Flying Cross.
ATKINS, F/L James (J14000) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.429 Squadron - Award effective 19 May 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1296/44 dated 16 June 1944. Born at Ste.Agathe, Quebec, 1919. Home in Montreal; enlisted there 24 August
1940.. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 9
December 1940), No.11 EFTS (graduated 28 January 1941) and No.2 SFTS (graduated
28 March 1941). Commissioned 1942. Award presented 21 November 1944. DHist file 181.009 D.5524 (RG.24 Vol.20667)
has recommendation dated 26 April 1944 when he had flown 18 sorties (143 hours
45 minutes). Incident described was on
22 April 1944 (loss of motor, extensive damage to elevator, port fin,
mainplane, main spar and fuel system. On
a previous trip to Berlin they were damaged by a Ju.88 Photo PL-45089 shows F/L P.J. VamBeek, F/O
Paul Snell, DFC, F/O Gordon Highway and F/L J. Atkins, described as "four
Montreal officers who completed a tour of operations and later instructed at
the same flying school" at Repatriation Depot, Torquay; PL-41083 taken
just after investiture at Buckingham Palace.
One night in April 1944, this officer piloted
an aircraft detailed to attack Dusseldorf.
When nearing the target the aircraft was attacked by a fighter and
sustained much damage. One engine was
put out of action, whilst other parts of the aircraft were so damaged that it
became difficult to control and some height was lost. Nevertheless, Flight Lieutenant Atkins went
on to the target and bombed it, afterwards flying the aircraft to base. In the face of heavy odds this officer
displayed great skill, determination and devotion to duty. He has completed a large number of sorties
against targets in Germany and has invariably pressed home his attacks with
great determination.
ATKINS, FS Robert George Alfred (R53665) - British
Empire Medal - No.2 SFTS - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 82/46 dated 25 January 1946. Enlisted in
Ottawa, 25 January 1940. Award presented
9 December 1947.
Through more than four years service at this
station Flight Sergeant Atkins has carried out every assignment with enthusiasm
and despatch. He has been outstanding in
directing other airframe mechanics.
Recently, this airman completed excellent work in connection with design
and construction of synthetic training devices, which has been of benefit to
the training programme. His initiative,
resourcefulness and outstanding ability in his trade are worthy of high praise.
ATKINSON, G/C Harold Hartley (C966) - Officer,
Order of the British Empire - No.2 Air Command Headquarters - Award
effective 1 January 1946 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO
82/45 dated 25 January 1946.
Commissioned in Ottawa, 1 April
1939. Retired 18 May 1946.
Throughout his service at this command, this
officer has filled the appointments of Senior Personnel Staff Officer, Senior
Administrative Office and Senior Supply and Organization Staff Officer. His tireless devotion to duty has been an
inspiration to all with whom he has come in contact, and the sound
organizational structure evident at Command Headquarters is due in very great
part to his unceasing and unflagging effort.
ATKINSON, F/O John Henry (J27547) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.272 Squadron - Award effective 11 August 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 21 August 1945 and AFRO 1507/45 dated 28 September 1945. Born at St.Thomas, Ontario, 21 May 1921; home
there. Former bank teller; enlisted 10
April 1942. No.1 Manning Depot, Toronto,
2 June 1942 to 24 July 1942, followed by Nol.14 SFTS, Aylmer, 25 July to 12
September 1942. Trained at No.1 ITS (13
September to 27 December 1942), No.7 EFTS (28 December 1942 to 6 March 1943),
and No.6 SFTS (7 March to 9 July 1943).
Commissioned 25 June 1943. F/O 25
December 1943. Further trained at No.1
GRS, Summerside (10 July to 25 September 1943) where he took navigation,
meteorology, signals, reconnaissance, ship recognition and photography. Arrived in UK via New York, 16 October
1943. Further trained at No.3 (P) AFU
(Oxfords), having been posted there 16 November 1943. Posted to No.79 OTU (Shahhafa, Egypt), May
1944. With No.272 Squadron, 16 October
1944 to 28 April 1945; to UK, 2 May 1945.
With No.248 Squadron, 30 May to 22 June 1945; returned to Canada, 1
August 1945; released 18 September 1945.
As of 22 July 1945 he claimed to have flown 39 sorties and to have flown
189:40 on Beaufighters, 8:50 on Mosquitoes, and 20:00 on Blenheims. Award presented 14 June 1949.
Flying Officer Atkinson commenced operational
flying in October 1944. Throughout he
has displayed outstanding skill, courage and devotion to duty. On one occasion in April 1945, this officer
was detailed to participate in a combined operation with the Desert Air
Force. On approaching the target his
aircraft was hit by fire from the enemy's defences and he was wounded in the
face and right eye. Half blinded and in
great pain, Flying Officer Atkinson pressed home his attack and obtained hits
on the target with rockets. After a
first aid dressing had been applied he flew the aircraft safely back to base. Though his aircraft has been damaged on five
occasions by anti-aircraft fire, this officer's enthusiasm and resolution have
never faltered, and by his fine fighting spirit he has set an inspiring example
to the other members of his squadron.
ATKINSON, P/O William Cecil (J87838) - Distinguished
Flying Cross -No.158 Squadron - Award effective 15 March 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 27 March 1945 and AFRO 1127/45 dated 6 July 1945. Born in Minnedosa, Manitoba, 1914. Home there.
Salesman, enlisted in Winnipeg, 23 June 1942. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 2 January
1943) and No.7 AOS (graduated 23 July 1943).
Commissioned July 1944. Award sent by registered mail 14 February
1951. Photograph PL-40612 shows P/O H. Burden,
P/O W.C. Atkinson, and (kneeling) WO1 L.A. Fryeand Flight Sergeant Eugene
Batager. No citation other than
"completed...many successful operations against the enemy in which [he
has] displayed high skill, fortitude and devotion to duty." Public Records Office Air 2/9051 has
recommendation dated 15 December 1944 when he had flown 35 sorties (158 hour 41
minutes), 12 June to 29 November 1944.
12 Jun 44 Amiens
(4.21) Bombed
aiming point
14 Jun 44 Evrecy
(5.17) Successful
attack
16 Jun 44 Sterkrade
(4.26) Bombed
through cloud
17 Jun 44 St.Martin
l'Hortier (4.23) Suuccessful
22 Jun 44 Siracourt
(4.03) Squadron's
first daylight raid
23 Jun 44 Oisemont
(3.31) Bomed as
ordered
24 Jun 44 Le
Grand Rossignol (4.01) Bombed
aoiming point
27 Jun 44 Marquise
Mimoyecques (3.47) Bombed target
1 July 44 Oisemont
(3.56) Successful
6 Jul 44 Marquis
Mimoyecques (3.16) Aiming point bombed
7 July 44 Caen
(4.24) do.
15 Jul 44 Les
Landes v.et N. (4.18) Bombed
target
18 Jul 44 Caen
(4.25) Successful
21 Jul 44 Bottrop
(4.11) Bombed
in cloud
24 Jul 44 Stuttgart
(8.21) do.
12 Aug 44 Brunswick
(5.37) do.
15 Aug 44 Eindhoven
(3.56) Bombed
airfield
16 Aug 44 Kiel
(4.33) Blind
bombing
18 Aug 44 Sterkrade
(4.35) Successful
24 Aug 44 Brest
block ships (5.06) Duty carried
out.
27 Aug 44 Homberg
(4.31) Good
bombing
31 Aug 44 La
Pourchinte (3.33) Abandoned
as ordered
9 Sept 44 Le
Havre (4.09) do.
10 Sep 44 Alvis
II (3.53) Bombed
aiming point.
11 Sep 44 Le
Havre (4.27) do.
12 Sep 44 Munster
(4.23) do.
15 Sep 44 Kiel
(5.46) Bombed
through cloud
26 Sep 44 Calais
(3.32) Bombed
aiming point
30 Sep 44 Bottrop
(4.00) Bombed
through cloud
23 Oct 44 Essen
(5.13) do.
28 Oct 44 Domburg
(3.08) Sortie
completed
31 Oct 44 Cologne
(5.00) Bombed
through cloud
2 Nov 44 Dusseldorf
(5.35) Heavy attack
18 Nov 44 Munster
(5.31) Bombed
through cloud
29 Nov 44 Essen
(5.33) do.
Pilot Officer Atkinson has completed a tour of
35 operational sorties as a navigator on this squadron. Fifteen of these sorties have been to the
most heavily defended targets in Germany and the others to vital objectives in
occupied territory.
A keen and able navigator, Pilot Officer
Atkinson has consistently shown a high standard of operational efficiency and
throughput many hazards he has proved himself fearless in the face of the
severest enemy fire. His competence, coupled with his fine offensive spirit,
has been a constant source of inspiration to his colleagues and a very material
factor in the successes they achieved.
In addition to his excellent work in the air,
Pilot Officer Atkinson took an active interest in the work of his section and
frequently acted as Flight Navigation Leader.
It is recommended that this officer's
excellent record of efficiency, courage and devotion to duty throughout a
hazardous tour be recognized by the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.
NOTE:
To the above his Station Commander adds, "Flying Officer Atkinson
has shown outstanding qualities of courage and efficiency throughout his
operational tour. He has never failed to
navigate successfully to the target in spite of technical failures."
ATTEWELL, W/C William Gordon (C8185) - Member,
Order of the British Empire - RCAF Overseas Headquarters - Award effective
14 June 1945 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 1127/45 dated 6
July 1945. Born in Bath, England, 10
January 1899. Emigrated to Canada in
January 1914. Joined the Canadian
Militia and then the CEF, going overseas early in 1916. Severely wounded at Corcellette (September
1916), repatriated to Canada and discharged in August 1918. Joined staff of Canadian Air Board in 1922 as
an air mechanic (Camp Borden). Enlisted
there in Permanent RCAF, 1 April 1924.
Thereafter saw much service around the Ottawa area, and in 1934 was sent
to Winnipeg. Attained WO1 rank late in
1939, sent to England with RCAF in January 1940 with special responsibilities
for No.110 Squadron's equipment. He also
was involved in shipments of BCATP equipment from the UK to Canada. Commissioned in 1940. Photograph PL-7634 shows him working at his
desk in RCAF Overseas Headquarters; PL-15700 shows him greeting Squadron
Officer K. Walker at railway station; PL-19432 presenting RCAF ensign to mayor
of Holborn.
This officer has served in various capacities
at Royal Canadian Air Force Headquarters, Overseas, for approximately five
years. He has performed the many duties
assigned to him with outstanding ability and devotion to duty. As officer commanding the administration unit
of this headquarters for nearly three years, his capable leadership and
direction have been reflected in the smooth and efficient operation of his
unit. His drive and persistent efforts
have been an inspiration to the personnel under his command and his devotion to
duty, often under the stress of enemy action, has been of the highest order.
ATTLE, F/L Jack (J11610) - Air Force Cross
- No.8 Squadron (Canada) - Award effective 6 January 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 13 March 1945 and AFRO 132/45 dated 26 January 1945. Home in
Sudbury; enlisted in RCAF 11 August 1941 at North Bay. Trained at No.3 Wireless
School (graduated 11 April 1942) and No.7 BGS (graduated 11 May 1942). Had completed 450 flying hours, 275
operational hours, and 65 sorties. Award
sent by registered mail 18 January 1949.
Photograph PL-13003 taken in Alaska shows F/O J.B. Morgan, Flight
Sergeant F.W. Johnstone, Flight Sergeant J.G. Evernden and P/O Jack Attle;
PMR-79-817 shows him in a group of Alaska personnel.
This officer, throughout all flying missions,
has proven himself to be a determined and dependable member of aircrew and an
efficient leader of other wireless operator air gunners. At various squadron bases, his loyalty and
devotion to duty have been an example and encouragement to others. His keenness in the face of danger and his
ability to co-operate with other aircrew have produced results worthy of high
praise.
AUBREY, F/O Gordon Alexander (J35746) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.415 Squadron - Award effective 5 February 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 16 February 1945 and AFRO 563/45 dated 29 March 1945. Born in Toronto, 1913, home there. Served in RCASC before joining RCAF in
Toronto, 22 May 1941. Trained at No.1
ITS (graduated 2 April 1943) and No.4 AOS (graduated 17 September 1943). Commissioned 1943. Killed in flying accident
at No.3 (P) AFU, 29 April 1945 (Oxford DF332).
Photograph PL-35332 is a portrait taken on 16 February 1945. Award sent by registered mail to next-of-kin,
2 December 1946. No citation other than "completed...numerous operations
against the enemy in the course of which [he has] invariably displayed the
utmost fortitude, courage and devotion to duty." DHist file 181.009 D.1750 (RG.24 Vol.20608)
has recommendation forwarded to Station Eastmoor, 23 November 1944, when he had
flown 32 sorties (160 hours 20 minutes) between 21 June and 6 October 1944.
This officer has participated in numerous
operational sorties which have included missions to Hamburg, Kiel, Wane Eickel
and Casrop Rauxel. His navigation has
always been of a very high standard and he has a fine record of
achievement. His determination and
confidence while on operations has always been an inspiration to the squadron
while his gallantry and devotion to duty has done much to create a high morale
among his fellow navigators...
AUDET, F/O Richard Joseph (J20126) - Distinguished
Flying Cross -No.411 Squadron - Award effective 16 February 1945 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 563/45 dated 29 March 1945. Born in Lethbridge, Alberta, 13 March 1922;
home there. Enlisted at Calgary, 26
August 1941. Attended Manning Depot in
Brandon, Manitoba. Trained at No.3 ITS (graduated 10 April 1942), No.22 EFTS
(graduated 3 July 1942) and No.2 SFTS (wings and commission, 23 October
1942). Posted to "Y" Depot,
Halifax for overseas movement, 7 November 1942.
To OTU and then to No.421 Squadron, 20 July 1943. After several other postings, reached No.411
Squadron, 23 October 1944. Victories as
follows: 29 December 1944, three FW.190s and two Bf.109s destroyed; 1
January 1945, two FW.190s destroyed; 4 January 1945, two FW.190s
destroyed (one shared with F/L J.J. Boyle); 14 January 1945, one FW.190
destroyed; 23 January 1945, one Me.262 destroyed in air and one
destroyed on ground; 24 January 1945, one Me.262 damaged on ground.
Killed in action 3 March 1945. Award
presented to next-of-kin, 5 November 1946. See H.A. Halliday, The Tumbling
Sky, for biographical details. See
Peter Mossman, "F/L Richard Joseph Audet, DFC and Bar", Journal of
the Canadian Aviation Historical Society, Fall 1964. Photograph PL-35524 was a portrait with hat;
PL-41715 to PL-41719 was a series of individual shots posed in and around his
Spitfire. Although often described as
having flown AU-A on 29 December 1944 (when he scored five in one sorties),
Michel Lavigne of Victoriaville, Quebec copied a portion of his logbook and
determined that the aircraft was AU-B.
This officer has proved himself to be a highly
skilled and courageous fighter. In
December 1944 the squadron was involved in an engagement against twelve enemy
fighters in the Rheine/Osnabruck area. In
a most spirited action, Flying Officer Audet achieved outstanding success by
destroying five enemy aircraft. This
feat is a splendid tribute to his brilliant shooting, great gallantry and
tenacity.
AUDET, F/L Richard Joseph (J20136) - Bar to
Distinguished Flying Cross - No.411 Squadron - Award effective 9 March 1945
as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 625/45 dated 13 April
1945.
This officer is an outstanding fighter
pilot. Since his first engagements
towards the end of December 1944, he has completed numerous sorties during
which he has destroyed a further six enemy aircraft bringing his total
victories to eleven. Flight Lieutenant
Audet has also most effectively attacked numerous locomotives and mechanical
vehicles. His skill and daring have won
the highest praise.
AULD, F/L David Gordon (C1558) - Mention in
Despatches - RCAF Station Aliford Bay - Awarded 1 January 1945 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 89/45 dated 19 January 1945 - home in
Winnipeg, enlisted there 29 December 1939.
Photo PL-1360 shows him.
This officer, during his tour of duty at this
station, has shown conspicuous devotion to duty. He has climaxed his continual
improvement of performance of signals by designing, superintending and working
on a new wireless telegraphy ground station, which through his efforts, now
sets a high standard of efficiency. Much
of this work was done in off-duty hours by himself and his staff. By his example and training in operations,
construction and maintenance, he has engendered the full co-operation and
respect of his subordinates.
AUSTEN, F/O Norman Lloyd (J35890) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.101 Squadron - Award effective 5 April 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 13 April 1945 and AFRO 824/45 dated 18 May 1945. Born 1917 in Lion, Ontario, home in Toronto
(machinist). Enlisted Toronto, 22 June
1942. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 20
March 1943), No.7 EFTS (graduated 15 May 1943) and No.13 SFTS (graduated 3
September 1943). Commissioned September
1943. Award presented in Toronto, 30
November 1949. No citation other than
"completed...numerous operations against the enemy in the course of which
[he has] invariably displayed the utmost courage and devotion to duty." Public Records Office Air 2/9059 has
recommendation dated 12 January 1945 when he had flown 30 sorties (149 hours
eight minutes), 3 September to 28 December 1944.
#
denotes date not decipherable from PRO document
3 Sept 44 Gilze-Rijen # Essen
5 Sept 44 Le
Havre # Cologne
6 Sept 44 Le
Havre 30
Oct 44 Cologne
8 Sep 44 Le
Havre 31 Oct
44 Cologne
10 Sep 44 Le
Havre 2 Nov
44 Dusseldorf
12 Sep 44 Frankfurt 11 Nov 44 Dortmund
15 Sep 44 Kiel 27 Nov
44 Freiburg
16 Sep 44 Leeuwarden 28 Nov 44 Essen
19 Sep 44 Rheydt 2 Dec 44 Hagen
26 Sep 44 Cap
Gris Nez 6 Dec 44 Osnabruck
3 Oct 44 Westkapelle 12 Dec 44 Essen
14 Oct 44 Duisburg 17 Dec 44 Ulm
15 Oct 44 Wilhelmshaven 24 Dec 44 Cologne
# Stuttgart 26 Dec 44 St.Vith
# Essen 28 Dec 44
Flying Officer Austen, a Canadian and an
extremely skilful pilot of proven ability, has completed 30 highly successful
sorties against a variety of targets in Germany and Occupied Europe. Many of this officer's attacks have been
fiercely and strenuously opposed and on numerous occasions his aircraft has sustained
severe damage, but with a cheerful confidence and superb disregard for personal
danger, Flying Officer Austen has never allowed the enemy opposition to deflect
his iron determination to inflict the heaviest possible damage on the target.
By his fine offensive spirit and courage in
the face of the enemy, this valiant young officer has set an excellent example
of high morale and dogged devotion to duty, which has been an inspiration to
the squadron.
Flying Officer Austen has shown himself to be
a spirited leader and a dauntless captain of aircraft and it is recommended
that his fine record of achievement and
courage which merit the highest praise, be recognized by an award of the
Distinguished Flying Cross.
AUSTEN, F/O Robert James (J15710) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.408 Squadron - Award effective 5 December 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 293/45 dated 16 February 1945. Born in Toronto, 1911; enlisted in Toronto, 2
July 1940. Trained at No.1 ITS
(graduated 14 September 1940), No.4 BGS (graduated 16 May 1941) and No.2 WS
(graduated 17 February 1942).
Commissioned 1942. Award
presented 27 June 1946. Photograph
PL-32924 shows F/O Sandy DeZorzi and F/L Austen beside wheel of a Halifax;
PL-35400 is a portrait.
Flying Officer Austen has completed a second
tour of operational duty and throughout has displayed the highest standard of
devotion to duty. His keenness for air
operations and his undoubted wireless skill have made him a most valuable
member of aircraft crew. He has rendered
excellent service.
AUSTENSON, F/L Oliver Henry (J21376) - Distinguished
Flying Cross -No.420 Squadron - Award effective 10 May 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 22 May 1945 and AFRO 1147/45 dated 13 July 1945. Born September 1915, Viscount,
Saskatchewan. Home there. Farmer, enlisted Saskatoon, 26 September
1941. Trained at No.7 ITS (graduated 10
April 1942), No.6 EFTS (graduated 14 August 1942) and No.4 SFTS (graduated 4
December 1942). Commissioned December
1942. No citation other than
"completed...numerous operations against the enemy in the course of which
[he has] invariably displayed the utmost fortitude, courage and devotion to
duty". DHist file 181.009 D.1746
(PAC RG.24 Vol.20608) has recommendation dated 10 January 1945 when he had
flown 30 sorties (171 hours 25 minutes).
This officer has completed a great many trips
against the most heavily defended German targets including Ludwigshafen,
Cologne, Karlsruhe, and Duisburg, and
never has he shown any but the highest standard of devotion to duty and
gallantry in action. Flying Officer
Austenson's exemplary skill and courage are an inspiration to both his crew and
his squadron.
AUSTIN, S/L Charles Chalmers (C1290) - Commended
for Valuable Services - No.3 OTU - Award effective 28 May 1943 as per London
Gazette of that date, Canada Gazette dated 2 June 1943, and
AFRO 1459/43 dated 30 July 1943. Born in
Renfrew, Ontario. Enlisted in Sudbury, 3
October 1939.
During the past two years this officer's work
has at all times been outstanding. His
good judgement, enthusiasm and personal skill as a pilot are noteworthy. He has in no small way been responsible for
the high standard of efficiency reached by those under his command. His keen interest in instructional duties
under trying circumstances has been an inspiration to those who serve with
him. He completed approximately 270
hours in the past twelve months.
AUSTIN, F/O Harold Guy (C8027) - Mention in
Despatches - Station Marham - Award effective 1 June 1943 as per London Gazette dated 2 June 1943 and
AFRO 1247/43 dated 2 July 1943. Born 2 November 1912 in Calgary; home there (working as agent and correspondent
for Calgary Herald); enlisted there, 3 October 1941. Commissioned same day Posted to No.2 ANS, Pennfield Ridge,
14 October 1941 for training in Flying Control; to "Y" Depot, Halifax, 12 November 1941. To overseas, 13 November
1941. To Station Marham, 15 December 1941. Promoted Flying Officer, 3 April 1942. To No.50 Group Pool, 17 April
1942. Engaged in Flying Control duties since at least 17 May 1942. To Station Marham, 18 August 1942. To Station
Mildenhall, 27 March 1943. To Station Topcliffe, 20 May 1943. Promoted Flight Lieutenant, 1 June 1943. To Station
Linton, 18 June 1943. To No.62 Base Headquarters, 9 October 1943. Promoted Squadron Leader, 9 October 1943.
Repatriated 27 November 1944. On strength of Station Edmonton, 12 January to 15 April 1945; with No.1 Radio Navigation
School, Summerside, 22 April to 18 October 1945. Released 25 October 1945.
Although no recommendation or citation
has been found, the following assessment indicates his value to units about the time of the award:
17 January 1943, G/C A McKee (Station Marham) - "I consider this officer to be an outstanding Air Control Officer. Well deserving of promotion."
That he continued to be a superior Flying Control Officer is attested by G/C. J.L.Hurley on 15 July 1944 when Austin was at Tholthorpe:
An outstanding Flying Control Officer. Continuously alive to his responsibilities and always devising methods to improve Flying Control.
AUSTIN, P/O Lloyd Fisher (J15254) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.57 Squadron - Award effective 16 June 1942 as per London
Gazette dated 22 September 1942 and AFRO 1659/42 dated 16 October 1942.
Born in Toronto, 1911; home there.
Educated at Stamford, University.
Enlisted in Toronto, 10 October 1940.
Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 31 January 1941), No.1 EFTS (graduated 17
March 1943) and No.5 SFTS (graduated 16 June 1941). Commissioned March 1942. Served in transport work at war's end. Died in Toronto, 4 September 1950 following
auto accident.
Pilot Officer Austin is a captain of
outstanding merit. All his sorties have been completed with the utmost zeal,
courage and determination. He has participated in sorties over the most
important targets in enemy and enemy occupied territory including such places
as Brest, Berlin, Kiel, Rostock, and Essen. Throughout, he has displayed a high
degree of skill.
NOTE: Public Records Office Air 2/9598 has
recommendation dated 22 July 1942 when he had flown 31 sorties (174 hours ten
minutes); proposed citation adds little to the published text:
Pilot Officer Austin is a captain of
outstanding merit. All his sorties have been completed with the utmost zeal,
courage and determination. During a period of intense operations this officer's
unfaltering keenness was an inspiration to all.
Since October 1941 he has participated in sorties over the most
important targets in enemy and enemy occupied territory including such places
as Brest, Berlin, Kiel, Rostock, and Essen. Throughout, he has displayed a high
degree of skill and courage.
AUSTIN, F/L Lloyd Fisher, DFC (J15254) - Mention
in Despatches - Award effective 1 June 1943 as per London Gazette
dated 2 June 1943 and AFRO 1247/43 dated 2 July 1943.
AUSTIN, S/L Lloyd Fisher (J15254) - Bar to
Distinguished Flying Cross - No.105 Squadron - Award effective 24 May 1944
as per London Gazette dated 6 June 1944 and AFRO 1660/44 dated 4 August
1944. Award presented 13 February 1948.
Since the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross,
Squadron Leader Austin has completed a second outstanding tour of
operations. He has flown as captain of
aircraft on a large number of difficult and dangerous sorties over many of the
enemy's most heavily defended targets.
This officer has displayed unfailing reliability and skill.
NOTE: Public Records Office Air 2/8780 has
recommendation dated 20 March 1944 when he had flown 73 sorties (309 hours)
including 42 sorties (132 hours) since previous award. The sortie list is
particularly interesting:
*G
= ground marking; *S = sky marking
First Tour Second
Tour
24 Oct 41 Emden
(5.25) 13 May 43 Duisburg (3.30, *G)
26 Oct 41 Hamburg
(6.20) 14 May 43 Bochum (3.45, *G)
7 Nov 41 Berlin
(9.20) 23 May 43 Dortmund (3.50, *G)
12 Dec 41 Brest
(7.15) 11 June
43 Dusseldorf (3.35, *G, *S)
17 Dec 41 Brest
(5.45) 12 June
43 Bochum (3.45, *G)
27 Dec 41 Brest
(6.20) 14 June
43 Oberhausen (3.15, *S)
2 Jan 42 Brest
(6.10) 21 June
43 Krefeld (3.25, *G)
8 Mar 42 Essen
(4.45) 24 June 43 Wuppertal (3.25, *G)
13 Mar 42 North
Sea 25 June
43 Gelsenkirchen (3.45, *S)
search (2.35) 28
June 43 Cologne (3.10, *G, *S)
5 Apr 42 Cologne
(5.25) 3 July 43 Cologne (3.26, *G)
6 Apr 42 Essen
(5.45) 25 July 43 Essen (3.40, *G)
9 Apr 42 Essen
(2.15,day) 22 Aug 43 Leverkusen (2.53, *G)
10 Apr 42 Essen
(5.15) 30 Aug 43 Munchen Gladbach
12 Apr 42 Essen
(6.10) (2.58,
*G)
14 Apr 42 Dortmund
(5.50) 8 Sept 43 Track marking (2.18)
22 Apr 42 Le
Havre (4.20) 23 Sep 43 Track marking (2.55)
24 Apr 42 Dunkirk
(2.15) 26 Sep 43 Aachen (2.50)
25 Apr 42 Rostock
(7.20) 27 Sep 43 Aachen (2.50)
27 Apr 42 Cologne
(6.25) 1 Oct 43 Hagen (3.30)
29 Apr 42 Genniviliers 3 Oct 43 Aachen (2.35)
(Paris, 5.55) 7
Oct 43 Aachen (2.35)
2 May 42 GARDENING,
18 Oct 43 Stolberg (3.00)
St.Nazaire (8.15) 20 Oct 43 Brauweiler
(2.55)
4 May 42 Stuttgart
(6.20) 21 Oct 43 Buderich (3.05)
6 May 42 Stuttgart
(7.20) 24 Oct 43 Duisburg (2.50)
7 May 42 GARDENING,
Great 7 Nov 43 Essen (3.30)
Belt, Denmark 8
Nov 43 Duisburg (3.35)
(6.50) 9
Nov 43 Ruhrort (2.55)
15 May 42 GARDENING,
Baltic 15 Nov 43 Dusseldorf (2.50)
(7.00) 19
Nov 43 Leverkusen (3.25)
19 May 42 Mannheim
(6.05) 29 Nov 43 Bochum (2.55)
30 May 42 Cologne
(4.15) 12 Dec 43 Dusseldorf (2.50)
1 June 42 Essen
(4.30) 29 Dec 43 Dusseldorf (2.45)
2 June 42 Essen
(4.05) 5 Jan 44 Solingen (2.55)
5 June 42 Essen
(4.55) 10 Jan 44 Solingen (3.10)
6 June 42 Emden
(4.50) 13 Jan 44 Rheinhausen (2.42)
16 June 42 Bonn
(5.00) 27 Jan
44 Aachen (2.50, *S)
19 Feb 44 Cherbourg
military
installations (2.33)
20 Feb 44 Gilze-Rijen
airfield
(2.11)
1 Mar 44 Meulan-les-Mureaux
(2.42, marking)
6 Mar 44 Trappes
(3.25, marking)
Having completed a tour of 32 sorties on
heavies, Squadron Leader Austin has since carried out a further tour with
Pathfinders. In all he has now flown 73
sorties, of which a large number have been marker sorties.
Throughout this long experience of operations
he has shown unfailing reliability and skill as a pilot, coupled with tenacity
and courage as a captain of aircraft.
*
* * * *
AUSTIN, F/L Warren Russell (J8939) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.408 Squadron - Award effective 6 July 1945 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1453/45 dated 14 September 1945. Born 1918 in Hamilton, Ontario; home in
Sudbury or Paris, Ontario; enlisted Hamilton, 13 January 1941. Trained at No.3 ITS (graduated 3 July
1941), No.10 EFTS (graduated 20 August
1941) and No.5 SFTS (graduated 21 November 1941). Commissioned 1941. Award sent by registered mail 17 June
1946. Photograph PL-36890 is a portrait.
Flight Lieutenant Austin is a highly skilled
and resolute pilot. He has completed
very many sorties against enemy targets and has set a fine example in pressing
home his attacks. On one occasion in
March 1945 he piloted an aircraft detailed to attack Essen. When nearing the target one engine became
unserviceable owing to an oil leakage.
This did not deter Flight Lieutenant Austin who continued to the target
when he eventually bombed at a height much lower than planned. His determination to make every sortie a
success has won the greatest praise. He
is a fine captain whose example has been well reflected in the operational
efficiency of his crew.
*
* * * *
AVANT, F/L Alan Frederick (J10503) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.115 Squadron - Award effective 20 April 1943 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 2198/43 dated 29 October 1943. Born at Hughton; Saskatchewan, 20 September
1922; enlisted Saskatoon, 11 March 1941.
Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 11 September 1941), No.15 EFTS (graduated
5 November 1941) and No.11 SFTS
(graduated 27 February 1942).
Commissioned 1942. Arrived in UK,
29 March 1942. To No.3 (P) AFU, 20 May
1942; to No.20 OTU, 30 June 1942; to No.115 Squadron, 13 September 1942; to
No.1679 Flight (later No.1659 Conversion Unit, East Moor), 1 June 1943 as chief
ground instructor; to No.62 Base, 19 October 1943; to No.426 Squadron, 11
January 1944; to No.429 Squadron, 1 May 1944; to No.62 Base, 15 July 1944; to
No.429 Squadron, 28 July 1944; to No.61 Base, 11 October 1944; to RCAF Overseas
Headquarters, 6 April 1945; repatriated 21 April 1945. Released in July 1945; enroled in RCAF
Reserve, May 1947, transferring to Regular Force in January 1948. To No.412 Squadron, September 1949 as flight
commander; to AFHQ, March 1951 on staff of Air Member for Technical Services;
attended RAF College, Bracknell, June 1952 to January 1953; to AFHQ as staff
officer, January 1953 to August 1957. To
RCAF Staff College as member of directing staff, August 1957; to Royal Roads
Military College as Commandant, July 1960 (attained rank of Colonel at this
time); to No.1 (F) Wing, July 1963,
commanding it until August 1966 when he was posted to Mobile Command,
St.Hubert, as Deputy Chief of Staff (Operations and Training); to NATO
Headquarters, Brussels, July 1969 as Military Advisor to Canadian Delation to
NATO Council; to 24 NORAD Region, Malmstrom AFB, Montana as Director of
Exercise and Analysis as well as CO of Canadian Personnel; retired 28 December
1976. DFC presented 27 July 1943. The Canadian Forces Photo Centre has many
photographs of him of which the following is a selection: PL-26023 (Flight
Commander, No.426 Squadron); PL-26034 (ditto); PL-30499 (A/C J.G. Bryans, W/C
R.S. Turnbull, W/C Avent, Leeming, 14 June 1944); PL-35517 (portrait); PL-36162 (G/C Avent and
G/C E.L. Wurtele); PL-128658 (portrait, 1960).
One night in March 1943, this officer
captained an aircraft detailed to attack Berlin. Whilst over the city his aircraft was held in
searchlights and subjected to intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire. The bomber was repeatedly hit and one of its
engines was damaged. Undeterred, Flight
Lieutenant Avant executed his bombing run exactly as planned, releasing his
bombs with precision. By skilful evading
tactics he then succeeded in piloting the bomber out of a perilous situation
although, in so doing, it sustained further damage and lost some height. Almost as course was set for the homeward
flight, the damaged engine burst into flames.
Efforts to extinguish the fire were successful and displaying fine
airmanship, this captain flew the damaged bomber to an airfield in this
country. Whilst over the airfield, one
of the port engines became defective but Flight Lieutenant Avant effected a
masterly landing with two engines unserviceable. This officer has at all times displayed high
courage and outstanding determination in the face of the enemy.
AVANT, W/C Alan Frederick, DFC (J10503) - Distinguished
Service Order - No.427 Squadron - Award effective 28 November 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 239/45 dated 9 February 1945. Award presented 13 February 1945.
This officer has completed numerous sorties on
his second tour of operational duty. He
is a highly skilled and fearless squadron commander, whose gallant leadership
has been well reflected in the fighting qualities of the squadron. His devotion to duty over a long period has
been unfailing.
NOTE: This appears to have begun as a
recommendation for an American Silver Star, proposed on 4 August 1944 by G/C
W.F.M. Newsom when Avant had flown 44 sorties (257 hours 45 minutes). The document is in DHH file 181.009 D.2611
(RG.24 Volume 20627). Text as follows:
Wing Commander Avant is nearing the completion
of two tours of bomber operations against the most heavily defended targets in
Germany and occupied territory during which he has displayed outstanding
offensive spirit, gallantry and devotion to duty. By his skilful work and personal example he
has contributed greatly to the high standard of operational efficiency of his
squadron. In recognition of this officer’s outstanding operational record, his qualities of leadership and fine
efforts to further the Allied cause I recommend that he be awarded the Silver
Star (United States of America)
AVENT, F/O Gordon Halse (J6377) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.40 Squadron - Award effective 20 July 1943 as per London
Gazette dated 10 August 1943 and AFRO 1849/43 dated 10 September 1943. Born in Winnipeg, 1915; educated there
(St.John's College and University of Manitoba); enlisted there 17 October
1940. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 7
March 1941), No.4 EFTS (graduated 13 May 1941) and No.6 SFTS (graduated 27 July
1941). Award presented 2 December
1946. Remained in postwar RCAF,
attaining the rank of Wing Commander.
Served in Moncton, London (England), Germany, Trenton, Winnipeg and
Ottawa. Following RCAF service he was employed by Parks Canada until 1980. Died in Ottawa, 11 November 2001. Canadian Forces Photo Centre has many
photographs of which the following is a selection: PL-18888 (Sergeant Arthur Howes, Sergeant
Norman Reid, Sergeant Edward Beetz, S/L Gordon Avent, Sergeant Tom Bradshaw at
Roman aquaduct, 10 December 1943); PL-18955 to 18957 (S/L G. Avent, S/L James
Bodman, flight commanders in an RAF Wellington squadron in Italy); PL-25521L
(returned to Canada); PL-38301 (investiture); PL-38350 (investiture); PL-57673
(portrait, June 1953); PL-131740 (portrait, 1964).
This officer is a skilful, courageous and
determined pilot. One night in June 1943
he undertook a flight of special importance.
Visibility was only fair but Flying Officer Avent skilfully located his
target and, in spite of heavy and accurate anti-aircraft fire, completed his
task successfully. Flying Officer Avent
has completed very many sorties and throughout, his efforts have been
characterized by great determination.
AVERY, F/L George Henry (C12166) - Military
Cross - Attached 33rd Indian Army Corps - Award effective 28 August 1945 as
per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 1507/45 dated 28 September
1945. Born in Ottawa, 1917; home
there. Educated at Lisgar Collegiate and
Ontario Agricultural College (B.Sc. in Agriculture, 1940). Enlisted Ottawa, 29 August 1941 and trained
as radar officer. In 1943, in UK,
volunteered for frogman and returned to Canada for training in California and
Bahamas. Returned overseas and trained
as paratrooper and commando. Posted to India
(attached 5th Infantry Brigade, 2nd British Division, 33 Indian Army Corps,
Burma). Award presented 1 December
1948. In postwar army; as of May 1959
was Supervisor of Civilian Personnel.
Died 16 or 17 January 1999 in Ottawa; lengthy article in "Brown's
Beat", Ottawa Citizen, 19 January 1999. Army photograph Z-8530 (National Archives of
Canada) shows him.
Flight Lieutenant Avery commanded No.4 Section
S.R.U. prior to and during the operation resulting in the establishment of a
bridgehead on the bank of the Irrawaddy River in the Myittha area. He made several reconnaissances by night and
in view of the enemy, and gathered valuable information necessary for the
furtherance of the operations. On the
night of 24th-25th February 1945, Flight Lieutenant Avery led the first assault
party across the river and guided craft to the landing beaches under heavy
fire. His work was arduous and
dangerous, but his remarkable achievements contributed greatly to the successful
establishment of the vital bridgehead through which, later, the whole division
passed.
NOTE: Dave Brown article reads in part as
follows:
He was serving at a radar base in England
during the Second World War when he heard the British were looking for swimmers
for a special secret assignment. A
powerful swimmer from his childhood at the family cottage at MacLaren's Landing
on the Ottawa River, and a member of Lisgar Collegiate's swim team, he signed
up. He had no idea what he was getting
into, but he figured if it involved swimming, it had to be good.
He became one of dozens of men trained in
California to use surf boards to cross water at night and infiltrate, ninja
style. In February 1945 the training was
put to work, and Mr. Avery was sent across the Irrawaddy River. It was about three kilometres wide at that
point, and flowed through the heart of what was then Burma, now called Myanmar.
He would make eight crossings, and skulk about
in the dark, looking for landing sites that could support tanks. After the amphibious assault by the Second
British Division, he had to make several crossings under fire. Radio communications had been knocked out and
he became a messenger.
When we talked in 1995, those under-fire
crossings were still much on his mind. "The trick was to put on a pair of
swim fins, dive in and swim as far as you could under water. Then surface for a quick gulp of air and get
back down again. You just kept that up
until you got out of range."
AVIS, FS Allan Victor (R51590) - British
Empire Medal - No.9 SFTS - Award effective 14 June 1945 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1127/45 dated 6 July 1945. Born in Brandon, Manitoba, 12 February 1916.
Educated at Fort Francis, Ontario and Canadian Liquid Air Welding School,
Winnipeg. Specialist mechanic before
enlisting at Fort William, 31 January 1940.
Airframe mechanic. Award sent by
registered mail 24 April 1946.
This non-commissioned officer is exceptional
in the knowledge of his trade and in the performance of his duties. Extremely conscientious, he has always placed
his duty towards the service ahead of his personal ambitions. By his splendid display of ability and keen
devotion to duty, he has gained the respect of officers and airmen alike who
have been associated with him.
AWCOCK, WO1 Sidney Charles (Can 961) - Member,
Order of the British Empire - Station Rockcliffe - Award effective 28 May
1943 as per London Gazette dated 28 May 1943 and AFRO 1459/43 dated 30
July 1943. Born Dane Hill, Sussex,
England. Enlisted in Ottawa, 18 March
1939; may have joined as airman 18 March 1929.
Award presented 24 November 1943.
Awarded Queen's Coronation Medal, 23 October 1953, while a WO1 at
Rockcliffe.
Warrant Officer Awcock has been a very
valuable member of this Station. His
initiative, resourcefulness and dependability have at all times been
outstanding, and together with his devotion to duty, have been a splendid
example to all personnel of the unit. He
has proven to be an excellent administrator and it is due to his personal
supervision that this unit's Motor Transport Section has reached its present
high state of efficiency. This Warrant
Officer has given unstintingly of his time and knowledge to aid in the training
of those under him.
AWREY, P/O Donald McLean (J19610) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.433 Squadron (deceased) - Award effective 30 March 1944
as per London Gazette dated 21 December 1945 and AFRO 155/46 dated 15
February 1946. Born in Leamington,
Ontario, 1921. Home in Windsor, Ontario.
Enlisted Hamilton, 31 January 1941.
Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 11 April 1942) and No.9 AOS (graduated 15
August 1942). Commissioned December
1943. Killed in action 30/31 March 1944
(Halifax HX272). Award presented to
mother at Government House, 7 November 1949.49.
Photograph PL-26818 shows him with No.433 Squadron.
This officer has completed as navigator many
successful operations against the enemy in the course of which he has
invariably displayed high skill, fortitude and devotion to duty.
AXCELL, F/L Reginald James (C12936) - Member,
Order of the British Empire - No.1 Y Depot (now No.3 PRC Overseas) - Award
effective 26 May 1944 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO
1380/44 dated 30 June 1944. Born at
Bromley, Kent, England; educated at Swastika Public School and Northern Academy
(Monteith, Ontario). Policeman for 13
years. Enlisted in Ottawa, 24 July
1942. After earning award he qualified
as a pilot and went overseas. Award
presented by King George VI, September 1944.
Photograph PL-32558 is a portrait; PL-41057 shows him at an RCAF
wrestling tournament (on top; F/L A.A. Stark is on bottom); PL-41077 shows the
same two men.
For the past two years this officer has been
in charge of the Overseas Officers Squadron at the embarkation depot for
members of the British Commonwealth Air Forces proceeding overseas. During this time many thousands of newly
commissioned aircrew officers have been under his charge and he has received
nothing but the highest words of praise for the excellent manner in which he
has carried out his duties. He has
displayed admirable and outstanding qualifications in performing the trying and
difficult duties of his position. His
great patience and willingness to assist in any problems and his kindness and
efficiency have been exceptional.
AXFORD, FS Wilfred Valentine (R70492) - British
Empire Medal -Station Leeming (AFRO gives unit only as
"Overseas") - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per London Gazette
of that date and AFRO 155/46 dated 15 February 1946. Home in Hamilton; enlisted there 16 September
1940. Award presented 8 May 1948. DHist file 181.009 D.2619 (RG.24 Vol.20628)
has recommendation dated 5 May 1945 when he was Sergeant in charge, Wireless Electrical Section.
Enlisting 16.9.40, Sergeant Axford was posted
overseas 24.3.42. Since 23.8.43 he has
been at Leeming. During this period he
has proved to be an outstanding tradesman and an NCO of the highest order. This NCO has been filling a Flight Sergeant
position for the past few months and has shown himself to be extremely
competent. His organizing ability since
taking charge of the Wireless Electrical Section of the Station Servicing Wing
has been well demonstrated by the splendid arrangement of the equipment and the
neat and tidy appearance of all the workshops, thus enabling his section to
turn out a high standard of serviceability of signals equipment in aircraft on
this unit. Frequent changing of his
trained personnel, new modification and organization added with sudden demands
for operations have always been met by Sergeant Axford with minimum of delays. He voluntarily works long and irregular hours
far beyond ordinary requirements and his devotion to duty has set a fine
example to all ranks and is worthy of the highest praise. His cheerful manner and pleasing personality
is maintained under all conditions.
Highly regarded by his superiors.
Strongly recommended for the award of the British Empire Medal (BEM) for
Meritorious Service.
AYLSWORTH, F/L Alan Bowen (J7641) - Mention
in Despatches - No.10 (BR) Squadron - Award effective 7 July 1945 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1291/45 dated 10 August 1945. Home in St.George, Ontario; enlisted
Kingston, 30 August 1940. Trained at
No.1 ITS (graduated 27 January 1941), No.4 AOS (graduated 7 July 1941), No.4 BGS (graduated 18 August 1941) and No.2
ANS (graduated 15 September 1941).
In eight hundred and eighty-nine flying hours
on operational duties over the North Atlantic, sometimes under the most adverse
weather conditions, Flight Lieutenant Aylsworth has consistently displayed a
keenness and skill that has inspired all members of the squadron. His ability and steadiness have played a
major part in the successful completion of many sorties which ordinarily may
have been curtailed.