BREACH, LAC Ernest Frederick (R86526) - Mention
in Despatches - Linton - Award effective 14 June 1945 as per London Gazette
of that date and AFRO 1647/45 dated 26 October 1945. Home in Caroline, Alberta; enlisted in
Edmonton 21 December 1940. DHist file
181.009 D.1719 (PAC RG.24 Vol.20606) has recommendation forwarded 3 February
1945 when he had served 17 months in Canada, 32 months overseas. Fitter.
This airman has served overseas with No.408
Squadron, then with No.9408 Servicing Echelon, and is at present in R & I
Squadron Servicing Wing. He is a very
hard working and conscientious airman.
One of the most skilled mechanics in the squadron, whose work is always
of the highest calibre and who often has been noticed working late at night,
entirely voluntarily, to complete some particular job. He has set a fine example as a crew leader to
the men under him, and by so doing has been able to turn out his work in record
time. He is well above the age of the average airman and has suffered
considerably from ill-health but has never spared himself on this account and
has carried on when others would have given up.
His devotion to duty is outstanding.
BREADNER, A/M Lloyd Samuel, DSC (C39) - Commander,
Order of the Bath - AFHQ - Award effective 1 January 1943 as per Canada
Gazette dated 9 January 1943 and AFRO 55/43 dated 15 January 1943. Born at Carleton Place, Ontario, 7 July
1894. Obtained pilot's certificate at
Wright Flying School; commissioned in Royal Naval Air Service, 28 December
1915. Served on Western Front as a fighter
pilot in No.3 (Naval) Squadron. Released
from RAF with rank of Major, March 1919.
Commissioned in CAF as a Squadron Leader on formation, 1920; became
Controller of Civil Aviation in 1922; commanded Camp Borden, 15 January 1924 to
23 September 1925 (Wing Commander, 1 April 1924); attended RAF Staff College;
Director of RCAF, 15 February 1928 to 29 April 1932. Commanded Station Trenton, 1932-1935 and then
attended Imperial Defence College (Group Captain, 1 February 1936). At AFHQ thereafter (Air Commodore, 4 August
1938); Chief of Air Staff from 29 May 1940 to 31 December 1943 (A/V/M on 29 May
1940; promoted to Air Marshal, 19 November 1941); AOC RCAF Overseas, January
1944 to May 1945. Promoted on retirement
to Air Chief Marshal (25 November 1945).
Died in Boston, 14 March 1952. CB
presented at Buckingham Palace, 8 February 1944.
As Chief of the Air Staff he has been charged
with the responsibility of the air defence of Canada, the development of the
British Commonwealth Air Training Plan, and the provision of Royal Canadian Air
Force personnel in every theatre of war.
Air Marshal Breadner, more than any other individual, symbolizes the
objectives of the Royal Canadian Air Force.
The compelling force of his personality is reflected in the great expansion
of the Home War Establishment, in the outstanding success of the B.C.A.T.P. and
the steady flow of trained aircrew overseas, which is one of Canada's greatest
contributions to the united war effort.
BREADNER, A/M Lloyd Samuel, CB, DSC (C39) - Military
Cross, First Class (Belgium) - effective 25 October 1943 as per Canada
Gazette dated 6 April 1946 and AFRO 388/46 dated 12 April 1946, "in
recognition of distinguished service in the cause of the Allies". AFRO 473/46 dated 10 May 1946 cancels and
re-instates. In a letter from the
Minister to Breadner, 16 August 1943, this was originally "in recognition
of services rendered to Belgium".
Presented on 5 October 1943 at No.8 AOS, Ancienne Lorette, by Baron
Silvercruys, Belgian Minister to Canada.
BREADNER, A/M Lloyd Samuel (C39) - Grand
Officers Cross of Polonia Restituta (Poland) - Award effective 25 August
1944 as per London Gazette dated 1 May 19445 and AFRO 212/46 dated 1
March 1946.
BREADNER, A/C/M Lloyd Samuel, CB, DSC (C39) - Order
of the White Lion, Class II (Czechoslovakia). Award effective 5 October 1946 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 991/46 dated 18 October 1946.
BREADNER, A/C/M Lloyd Samuel, CB, DSC (C39) -
Retired - Legion of Merit (Degree of Commander) - Award effective 20
December 1946 as per AFRO 1158/46 of that date and Canada Gazette dated
21 December 1946. Citation found in
letter, Colonel R.W.S. Williamson, U.S. Military Attache writing to AFHQ, 18
November 1946.
Air Chief Marshall Lloyd Samuel Breadner, Royal
Canadian Air Force, performed meritorious service from December 1941 to
November 1943. As Chief of the Air Staff
he was in charge of operations and was instrumental in carrying out the
Canadian commitments of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. His efforts did much to give the United
States Army Air Forces and the allied nations a greater striking power which
enabled them to more expeditiously terminate hostilities with the Axis powers.
BREADNER, A/C/M Lloyd Samuel (C39) - Commander
of the Legion of Honour (France) - Award effective 12 September 1947 as per
AFRO 485/47 of that date and Canada Gazette dated 20 September 1947.
BREADNER, A/C/M Lloyd Samuel (C39) - Croix
de Guerre with Palm (France) - Award effective 12 September 1947 as per
AFRO 485/47 of that date and Canada Gazette dated 20 September 1947.
BREADNER, A/C/M Lloyd Samuel (C39) - King
Haakron VII's Cross of Liberation (Norway) - Award effective 12 June 1948
as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 371/48 dated 11 June 1948.
BREAKWELL, Sergeant Graham (R104908) - Distinguished
Flying Medal - No.76 Squadron - Award effective 4 October 1943 as per London
Gazette dated 19 October 1943 and AFRO 2437/43 dated 26 November 1943. Home in Dannevirke, New Zealand; enlisted
Montreal. Trained at No.1 BGS (graduated
16 February 1942). Commissioned 14 May
1944. Award presented 10 February 1947.
Sergeant Breakwell has participated in many
operational sorties against some of the most heavily defended targets in
Germany and Italy. An air gunner of
great tenacity of purpose, endurance and with a fine fighting spirit, he
consistently presses home his attacks regardless of enemy opposition. By his example of unselfishness and
unconquerable spirit of determination to achieve his objective this airman has
inspired a high standard of morale in his crew.
BREARLEY, F/O John Edward (J88588) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.405 Squadron - Award effective 5 July 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 17 July 1945 and AFRO 1558/45 dated 5 October 1945. Home in Toronto; enlisted there 28 July
1942. Trained at No.2 WS (graduated 9
November 1942) and No.1 BGS (graduated 12 July 1942). Award sent by registered mail 28 June
1949. 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 2/9083 has recommendation dated 23 March 1945
when he had flown 48 sorties (235 hours 40 minutes), 7 August 1944 to 23
February 1945.
7 Aug 44 L'Hague
(4.55) 21 Nov 44 Aschaffenberg and
8 Aug 44 Chantilly
(5.15) Worms
(5.15)
9 Aug 44 Prouville
(4.10) 27 Nov 44 Neuss (4.00)
12 Aug 44 La
Breteque (4.40) 17 Dec
44 Ulm (6.15)
14 Aug 44 Aisy
(4.45) 22
Dec 44 Bingen (5.05)
15 Aug 44 Soesterburg
(3.55) 28 Dec 44 Bonn (4.45)
16 Aug 44 Kiel
(5.00) 29
Dec 44 Gelsenkirchen (5.00)
31 Aug 44 Cezembre
(4.55) 30 Dec 44 Cologne (4.20)
6 Sept 44 Emden
(4.35) 2 Jan
45 Nuremburg (6.20)
10 Sep 44 Le
Havre (4.05) 5
Jan 45 Rayon (5.20)
11 Sep 44 Kiel
Bay (5.30) 5 Jan
45 Hanover (4.30)
14 Sep 44 Wilhelmshaven 16 Jan 45 Magdeburg (6.10)
15 Sep 44 Kiel
(6.15) 7
Feb 45 Cleve (4.05)
17 Sep 44 Boulogne
(3.50) 8 Feb 45 Politz (7.55)
14 Oct 44 Duisburg
(4.05) 13 Feb 45 Dresden (8.00)
23 Oct 44 Essen
(4.10) 14
Feb 45 Chemnitz (7.00)
28 Oct 44 Walchern
(2.05) 21 Feb 45 Duisburg (4.40)
30 Oct 44 Cologne
(4.40) 23 Feb 45 Essen (3.55)
2 Nov 44 Dusseldorf
(4.10) 2 Mar 45 Cologne (4.15)
4 Nov 44 Bochum
(3.45) 5 Mar 45 Chemnitz (7.25)
6 Nov 44 Gelsenkirchen
(3.35) 7 Mar 45 Dessau (7.55)
9 Nov 44 Wanne
Eickel (3.50) 11 Mar 45 Essen (4.35)
16 Nov 44 Julich
(3.40) 15
Mar 45 Misburg (6.15)
18 Nov 44 Wanne
Eickel (4.20) 18 Mar 45 Witten (5.05)
20 Mar 45 Heide
(4.45)
Pilot Officer Brearley is an exceptionally
keen and capable Wireless Operator/Air Gunner who has now almost completed two
tours of operations. The crew of which
he is a member has on a great many missions been employed on duties of a highly
dangerous nature. In spite of the great
personal danger to which he has been subjected,, he has very ably carried out
his duties with exceptional skill and determination, thereby setting a fine
example for all members of his crew.
*
* * * *
BREARLEY, W/C Reginald John (C1791) - 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. Born in London,
England, 1903; came to Canada in 1924 after graduating in electrical
engineering. Associated for sixteen years
with various power companies (Shawinigan Water and Power, Calgary Water and Power,
Abitibi Power and Paper, Gatineau Power Company (for which he was chief
operating engineer, 1931-1940). Enlisted
in Ottawa, 12 March 1940 and was first attached to School of Aeronautical
Engineering, Montreal. Later with No.15
Technical Detachment, Winnipeg (September 1940-June 1941) and No.11 Technical
Detachment, Montreal (June-August 1941).
Poster overseas as Director of Engineering.
As Senior Engineering Officer for three years
at Royal Canadian Air Force Overseas Headquarters, this officer has done an
outstanding job in his field. By his
persistent energy he has kept Canada in close touch with all important aero
engineering developments in Great Britain and further has made a valuable
contribution to the Royal Canadian Air Force.
*
* * * *
BREEN, F/O John Thomas (J7071) - Mention in
Despatches - No.116 (BR) Squadron - Award effective 3 November 1944 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 2479/44 dated 17 November 1944. Home in Toronto; enlisted there 15 November
1940. Trained at No.3 ITS (graduated 4
September 1941) , No.1 EFTS (graduated 21 June 1941) , and No.5 SFTS (graduated
1 September 1941).
This officer is a most efficient operational
pilot, who has at all times displayed admirable initiative, skill and
determination. His coolness and courage
in times of stress have more than once averted disaster. He is a most conscientious captain of
aircraft, whose unfailing devotion to duty is a source of inspiration to all
who serve with him.
*
* * * *
BREEN, P/O Roy Frederick (J92935) - Belgian
Croix de Guerre 1940 with Palm (deceased) - No.438 Squadron - Awarded 17
July 1948 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 455/48 dated 23
July 1948. Home in Comber, Ontario. Pilot, killed in action with No.438 Squadron,
24 December 1944, Typhoon MP178. Buried
in Belgium.
BREITHAUPT, F/O William Ransom (J17271) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.239 Squadron -
Award effective 7 July 1944 as per London Gazette of that
date and AFRO 1861/44 dated 25 August 1944.
Born 7 August 1940. Educated in
Kitchener and Toronto, 1925-1933, and at University Schools, 1933-1940. Home in Toronto; attending University of
Toronto on enlistment (Mechanical Engineering).
He gave his sports as skiing, hockey, tennis, swimming; his hobbies were
reading and photography. Recruiting
Officer, F/L J.E. Drummond, wrote on 2 July 1941, "Very active boy. Has
good education. He is alert and quick. Speaks well. Should make a good member for
aircrew." He was six feet one inch
tall and weighed 153 pounds. Enlisted in
Toronto on 4 August 1941. Trained at
No.3 ITS, Victoriaville (graduated 7 October 1941), No.12 EFTS, Goderich
(graduated 19 December 1941) and No.5 SFTS, Brantford (graduated 10 April
1942). Embarked for Britain, 30 April
1942; posted to No.2 (P) Advanced Flying Unit, 16 June 1942; to No.6 (P),
Advanced Flying Unit, 16 July 1942; to No.54 OTU, 21 July 1942; promoted Flight
Sergeant, 10 October 1942; to No.488 Squadron, 3 November 1942; commissioned 4
March 1943 and posted to No.409 Squadron; promoted Flying Officer, 4 September
1943; to No.239 Squadron, 14 October 1943.
Cited with F/O J.A. Kennedy (RAF).
Killed in action 12 September 1944, seconds after shooting down the Bf.110
which had set his own machine on fire (Mosquito II, DZ254). Award presented to next-of-kin, 2 December
1946. He had two brothers in the forces
(one transferred to the Fleet Air Army.
As pilot and observer respectively, Flying
Officer Breithaupt and Flying Officer Kennedy have completed numerous
sorties. They have displayed a high
degree of skill, excellent co-operation and a fine fighting spirit, qualities
which have enabled them to destroy four enemy aircraft at night within a period
of a few weeks. Their achievements have
won much praise.
The search officer who found the remains of
Breithaupt and Kennedy was S/L P.E. Kennedy-Bramley, whose report on this
occasion read:
During a sweep Ranschbach (7 km west of
Landau) K50/R26 Cemetery and Town Hall were visited on 15.1.47, one grave with
one cross marked:
TWO
UNKNOWN ENGLISH FLYERS
SHOT
DOWN
12,9.44
was located in the NW corner of the
cemetery. This grave is not registered
or numbered. The present Burgomaster
BOSCH August was interrogated and stated that a twin-engined aircraft of wooden
construction crashed between 2300 hours and midnight on the 12..9.44 one km
west of Ranschbach. The aircraft
exploded and burned on contact with the ground.
This aircraft was shot down by a ME.110 which was also shot down by
the English aircraft before it crashed. The crew of the ME.110 baled and confirmed
that they had been shot down by this aircraft.
It was also stated that red, white and blue roundels were seen on the
wrecked pieces of aircraft. Two badly
charred bodies were found in the cockpit and buried in the village
cemetery. No military or religious
ceremony was accorded, although there was an RC priest in the village named
Father Seiller. No records were held in
the Town Hall Records. The scene of the
crash was visited; the only pieces of aircraft found was a piece of aluminum
bearing the numbers L985024, DR21680, 689520.
In conclusion it would appear that the English
aircraft was a Mosquito (Twin engined wooden construction) and it would be much
appreciated if the names of the crew could be obtained from the above
information. It would appear that German
Crash Report KE9682 refers to this case.
Form 3372 has been duly raised and a request
for exhumation made.
Another letter says there is no German Crash
report KE.9682 but that Report KE9704 refers.
Exhumation took place on 13 August 1948 when
Kennedy ID disc. They had been buried
without coffins; reburied at Reinburg, 30 September 1948.
At ITS was 50th in class of 228,
"Excellent appearance. Good personality. Good background. Keen and alert. Self confident" (W/C DD
Findlay)
At EFTS - Finch II, "A little young but
is an excellent type and is a willing conscientious hard worker. General flying and aerobatics average, had
some difficulty in instrument flying but is now showing satisfactory
progress." (H.A. MacPherson, CFI, 20 December 1941) - "A capable hard
working student. Re learns quickly and is a good average at ground school. He should make an efficient officer."
(K.S. Hopkinson, CGI, 20 December 1941) - graduated 6th in a class
of 26 He had flown 29.25 dual, 30.50 solo, 9.55 instruments.
At SFTS - Anson "Flying progress slow at
start, seems to retain knowledge. In GIS
his work was satisfactory. Is rather
immature and with experience should develop into good service pilot. Is cheerful and takes his duties
seriously" Flew 49.50 day dual, 71.00 day solo, 9.40 night dual, 6.05
night solo, 28.10 instruments, 36.05 in Link.
Further assessments: 11 July 1943, "A
very keen, reliable and popular member of the squadron. A valuable
officer" (No.409 Squadron)
14 September 1943, "A keen, alert and
very popular man, he is thoroughly dependable and very interested in his
work. With more commissioned experience
he should develop into a fine leader.
17 October 1943, "A sound, steady
officer" (409 Squadron)
Sick (pneumonia, 8 November to 11 December
1943) following posting, and on 27 March 1944 W/C J.B. Schofield wrote
"When fit he is an energetic and useful officer with sound technical
ability".
22 October 1944, "A young Canadian with
plenty of dash." (Curious as this was an assessment drawn up for than a
month after he was reported missing).
Victories and summaries from RAF Bomber
Command intelligence reports:
26/27 April 1944 - one Bf.110 destroyed, Essen
area (Mosquito W4078)
100 Group aircraft Mosquito “D” of 239 Squadron in the Essen area, at 0150 hours, height 16,000 feet
identified a ME.110. The range was
closed to 150 yards when the Mosquito fired, strikes being observed on the E.A.
which burst into flames and dived down, to explode on the ground. The ME.110 is claimed as destroyed.
12/13 May 1944 - one Bf.110 destroyed,
Hasselt-Louvain (W4078):
100 Group aircraft Mosquito “D” of 239 Squadron S.E. of Turnhout at 0120 hours, when a visual on a
ME.110 was obtaind. Range was closed to
150 yards and a 2 sec burst was fired, which set the E/A on fire. Burning furiously it crashed to the ground
and blew up. The ME.110 is claimed as
destroyed.
24/25 May 1944 - one Bf.109 damaged ,
northwest of Aachen (Mosquito DZ297)
-one
Ju.88 destroyed, 15 miles east-southeast of Bonn (DZ297)
100 Group aircraft Mosquito “C” of No.239 Squadron over Bonn, at 0125 hours, height 10,000 feet,
sighted a Ju.88 about to land at Bonn airfield.
The Mosquito fired at 300 feet range, and the E/A’s starboard engine exploded. The
E/A immediately dived, hit the ground and exploded. The Ju.88 is claimed as destroyed.
NOTE TO SHORES: A problem appears with the victory of June
1944 which you date as 5/6 June and describe as being a Ju.88 destroyed
"off Frisian Islands". The Bomber Command summaries show D/239
destroying a Ju.88 "10 miles south of Norderney" on about 0016 hours
of 4/5 June and U/239 destroying a Bf.110 "approximately 5100N 0600E"
at 0053 hours on 5/6 June. Can you resolve the anomaly ? To help you along, the
narratives for the two combats are as follows:
(4/5 June 1944) 100 Group aircraft Mosquito
"D" of 239 Squadron, approximately 10 miles south of Alderney, about
0016 hours, height 15,500 feet, identified a Ju.88. Fire was opened at 100
yards range, the E/A's port engine exploded and the whole aircraft caught fire
and dived steeply into the sea. The Ju.88 is claimed as destroyed.
(5/6 June 1944) 100 Group aircraft Mosquito
"U" of 239 Squadron, approximately 5100N 0600E, at 0053 hours, height
16,000 feet, obtained a visual on a Me.110. Fire was opened at 200 feet,
hitting the E/A, which blew up and went down in flames, hitting the ground with
a big flash. The Me.110 is claimed as destroyed.
BRENNAN, F/O William Robert (J29236) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.166 Squadron - Award effective 5 February 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 16 February 1945 and AFRO 563/45 dated 29 March 1945. Home in Calgary; enlisted there 26 June
1941. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 2
January 1942), No.18 EFTS (graduated 28 March 1942) and No.15 SFTS (graduated 9
October 1942). Award presented 27 May
1950. 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
2/8830 has recommendation daed 12 November 1944 when he had flown 31 sorties
(148 hours), 20 July to 25 October 1944.
20 Jul 44 Wizernes 31 Aug 44 Agenville
23 Jul 44 Kiel 3
Sept 44 Gilze-Rijen
1 Aug 44 La
Belle Croix 6
Sep 44 Le Havre
les Bruyeres 7
Sep 44 Le Havre
2 Aug 44 Le
Havre 10
Sep 44 Le Havre
3 Aug 44 Trossy
St.Maximum 18 Sep 44 Le Havre
4 Aug 44 Pauillac 20 Sep 44 Sangatte
7 Aug 44 Fontenay
le Marmion 26 Sep 44 Calais
10 Aug 44 Paris 27
Sep 44 Calais
11 Aug 44 Duvai 2 Oct
44 Westkappelle
14 Aug 44 Fontaine
le Pin 5 Oct 44 Saarbrucken
15 Aug 44 Leculot 12 Oct
44 Fort Frederik Hendrik
16 Aug 44 Stettin 13 Oct
44 Duisburg
25 Aug 44 Russelsheim 14 Oct 44 Duisburg
26 Aug 44 Kiel 19
Oct 44 Stuttgart
29 Aug 44 Stettin 25 Oct
44 Essen
This Canadian officer, as captain of aircraft,
has now completed 31 sorties over heavily defended targets in Germany and enemy
occupied territory. All these attacks
have been faultless in their execution and the determination of the captain to
press home the blow whatever opposition has been offered has been largely
responsible for their success.
An instance of this was shown on the 25th
October, 1944, when detailed to attack Essen.
Flying Officer Brennan found that one engine was developing little power
immediately after take-off. Although the
attack was on a heavily defended target, Flying Officer Brennan decided to
carry on and, by skilful handling, managed to reach the height of 17,000 feet,
which was below the height ordered. A
successful attack was delivered in spite of having to make a second run over
the target. This typifies the ready
acceptance of a hazard by this officer in order to complete his attack.
For his devotion to duty and great gallantry
in the face of heavy odds, he is strongly recommended for the award of the
Distinguished Flying Cross.
BRENNER, F/L Alfred Burrell (J7619) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.415 Squadron - Award effective 1 September 1943 as per London
Gazette dated 10 September 1943 and AFRO 2138/43 dated 22 October
1943. Home in Toronto; enlisted there 6
December 1940. Trained at No.3 ITS
(graduated 16 May 1941), No.11 EFTS (graduated 7 July 1941) , and No.8 SFTS
(graduated 13 September 1941). Award
presented 3 July 1945.
One night in February 1943, this officer,
attacking in the face of fierce anti-aircraft fire, torpedoed an enemy merchant
ship off the Frisian Islands. Severe
damage was sustained by the aircraft, which compelled the pilot to descend to
the sea and he and his crew were rescued after forty-three hours in the
dingy. On another sortie Flight
Lieutenant Brenner made a most determined attack on an enemy blockade runner
escorted by five destroyers. Despite
being hit several times by anti-aircraft fire he continued his attack, and on
the return flight escorted the leading aircraft of his formation which had been
severely damaged. Throughout his tour of
operational duty, this officer has displayed the greatest keenness and devotion
to duty.
BRETZ, S/L Norman Hobson (J2975) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.402 Squadron - Award effective 2 September 1942 as per London
Gazette dated 22 September 1942 and AFRO 1653/42 dated 16 October
1942. Home in Toronto; enlisted there 24
April 1940. Trained at No.1 ITS,
Kitchener-Waterloo Flying Club, and No.2 SFTS.
Credited with the following victories, all with No.402 Squadron: 8
June 1942, one FW.190 damaged; 19 August 1942, one FW.190 damaged; 24
August 1942, one FW.190 destroyed; 6 September 1942, one FW.190
damaged. Commanded No.411 Squadron, 28
September 1942 to 22 March 1943; later Wing Commander, CO of Repatriation Depot
at Rocklciffe (1944). Photo PL-14714
shows him. Award presented 1 December
1942.
Squadron Leader Bretz has completed many
operational sorties including four low level raids in Hurricane bombers, as a
result of which, two enemy destroyers were severely damaged. During the combined operations at Dieppe on
19th August he led his squadron in four sorties and destroyed one enemy
aircraft and damaged another. Squadron
Leader Bretz has displayed great courage and initiative which have contributed
largely to the successes achieved by his squadron.
BREWER, P/O Denis Leonard (C85792) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.426 Squadron (POW) - Award effective 4 November 1944 as
per London Gazette dated 17 November 1944 and AFRO 239/45 dated 9
February 1945. Home in Vancouver;
enlisted in London, England, 17 February 1942.
Taken prisoner 15/16 October 1944.
Award presented at Esquimalt, 21 July 1956. 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.4431
(RG.24 Vol.20649) has recommendation dated 18 August 1944 when he had flown 24
sorties (123 hours 50 minutes), 5 January to 27 July 1944.
This officer has taken part in 24 operations
over enemy territory including Stettin, Leipzig, Stuttgart, Frankfurt,
Boulogne, Hamburg and Berlin, some of Germany's most heavily defended
areas. Once while on a mission to
Berlin and again on a mission to Schweinfurt, this operator found his aircraft
detection apparatus to be failing. With
unstinting efforts on both occasions, he worked in the rear of the aircraft
while it was being bounced around by flak, and being chased by fighters, until
his work was completed and his set operating efficiently. He thereby set one of the finest examples of
air work in the history of the squadron, and contributed to a great extent to the
safe return of the aircraft.
BREWSTER, S/L Donald Alexander (C9888) - Mention
in Despatches - No.143 Wing (AFRO gives unit only as "Overseas")
- Award effective 14 June 1945 as per London Gazette of that date
and AFRO 1395/45 dated 31 August 1945.
Born in Kitchener, Ontario, 26 August 1913. Home in Fernie, British Columbia; teacher of
shop and technical trades; enlisted in Vancouver, 16 January 1942. Taken on strength of School of Aeronautical
Engineering, Montreal, 31 January 1942; to No.8 BGS, Lethbridge, 12 July 1942;
promoted Flying Officer, 16 July 1942; to "Y" Depot, Halifax, 16
September 1942; to Britain, 2 October 1942, arriving 18 October 1942; to No.421
Squadron, 29 October 1942; promoted Flight Lieutenant, 17 April 1943; to No.126
Airfield, 9 July 1943; to No.127 Airfield (Wing), 14 July 1943; promoted
Squadron Leader, 17 April 1944; to No.143 Wing, 17 June 1944; arrived in
France, 3 June 1944; to Britain, 26 August 1945; repatriated to Canada, 26
September 1945; released 21 November 1945.
Postwar consulting engineer in Vancouver. No citation in Canadian sources. Public Records Office Air 2/9056 has
recommendation for an MBE which appears to have been downgraded to this MiD, but
which might have been the basis of his later OBE.
This officer took over the duties of Chief
Technical Officer of the Wing in April 1944.
It had only been formed a short time and the Maintenance Section was in
a disorganized state. As a result of his
excellent organizing ability and energy the standard of maintenance was soon
placed on a very high level. Squadron
Leader Brewster has made a splendid contribution to the operational efficiency
of the Wing.
BREWSTER, S/L Donald Alexander (C9888) - Officer,
Order of the British Empire - No.143 Wing (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. No citation.
Award presented 29 January 1947.
BREWSTER, F/O John George Richard (J35244) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.433 Squadron - Award effective 6 January 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 16 January 1945 and AFRO 508/45 dated 23 March 1945. Home in Vancouver; enlisted Hamilton, 15 June
1942. Trained at No.6 ITS (graduated 17
April 1943) and No.4 AOS (graduated 3 September 1943). Award presented at Sea Island, 22 October
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.2988
has recommendation dated 20 October 1944 for J35244 F/O Reginald Victor
Brewster, navigator. CHECK CORRECT
NAME. As of recommendation he had flown
33 sorties (161 hours 55 minutes), 16 June to 14 October 1944.
This officer, the Navigator of the crew
captained by Flying Officer Nixon, has since June 1944, made thirty-three
operational sorties over enemy territory including several long distance
targets which called for a high degree of navigational ability.
Flying Officer Brewster has at all times
displayed outstanding ability and a strong sense of duty, and he holds a fine
record of achievement in the squadron.
His untiring devotion to duty in moments of danger has been largely
responsible for the successful completion of his crew's many sorties, and by
his example of cheerful courage, has maintained a very high standard of morale
among not only his crew members, but the squadron in general.
I consider that this officer in every way
fully merits the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross (Non-Immediate).
BRICHTA, FS Philip Sibbald Ogilvie (R72563) - Distinguished
Flying Medal - No.419 Squadron - Award effective 16 June 1942 as per London
Gazette dated 22 September 1942 and AFRO 1653/42 dated 16 October
1942. Enlisted in Toronto, 12 August
1940. Trained at No.5 AOS, No.4 BGS, and
No.1 ANS. Killed in action 16 September
1942 while on the strength of No.22 OTU; buried in Germany. Medal presented (not clear to whom) at
Buckingham Palace, 22 April 1944.
This airman is an observer of exceptional
merit. Throughout his operational tour
he has displayed both efficiency and coolness which has been of the greatest
assistance to his captain. One night in
June 1942, during an attack against Essen, his aircraft was damaged by
anti-aircraft fire. It was also attacked by an enemy fighter. The underside of the fuselage from the front
turret to the observer's table caught fire but in spite of the imminent danger
to the whole crew and the possibility that he would fall through the badly
burned bottom of the fuselage, Flight Sergeant Brichta immediately attempted to
extinguish the flames. His subsequent accurate navigation played a large part
in the eventual safe return of his aircraft to this country. Flight Sergeant Brichta's courage and
coolness in the face of danger has at all times been of a high order. He has taken part in attacks on the enemy's
industrial targets and dockyard installations.
NOTE: Public Records Office Air 2/9598 has
undated recommendation and sortie list which are more detailed; compiled when
he had flown 28 sorties (135 operational hours).
28 Jan 42 Boulogne 28 Apr 44 Kiel
6 Feb 42 Brest 2
May 42 La Rochelle
10 Feb 42 Brest 4
May 42 Stuttgart
18 Feb 42 Lille
(Nickling) 17
May 42 GARDENING, Frisians
3 Mar 42 Paris 19
May 42 Mannheim
29 Mar 42 Dinghy
search, 30 May
42 Cologne
North Sea 1
June 42 Essen
5 Apr 42 Cologne 2 June
42 Essen
8 Apr 42 Hamburg 5 June 42 Emden
10 Apr 42 Essen 6
June 42 Essen
12 Apr 42 Essen 16
June 42 Essen
14 Apr 42 Dortmund 2 July 42 GARDENING, Lorient
15 Apr 42 Dortmund 6 July 42 Bremen
23 Apr 42 Rostock 8 July
42 Duisburg
26 Apr 42 Rostock
Flight Sergeant Brichta has now completed his
tour of operations with this squadron. On every operation he has displayed an
efficiency as Observer which is above average and at all times his coolness
under trying circumstances has been highly instrumental in the return of his
aircraft. Of particular mention is
Flight Sergeant Brichta's effort of the night of 16/17 June 1942, when
attacking Essen. The aircraft was hit
three times over enemy territory. When twenty miles east-northeast of Antwerp a
particularly heavy piece hit the aircraft which was at the same time attacked
by an enemy fighter. The underside of the fuselage, from the front turret to
the observer's table, was on fire but in spite of the imminent danger to the
whole crew, and the possibility that he would fall through the badly burned
bottom of the fuselage, Flight Sergeant Brichta immediately tackled the task of
stamping out the flames, completely disregarding his personal safety.
Flight Sergeant Brichta's accurate navigation
played a large part in this particular instance, in assisting to bring the
severely damaged machine safely back to England. Flight Sergeant Brichta's courage and
coolness in the face of danger has at all times been of the very highest order
and it is considered that his efforts over the whole of his tour merit
recognition.
BRICKENDEN, W/C George Arthur Porte (C1953) - 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. Home in London, Ontario; enlisted there 23
April 1940. Certificate sent 29 June
1945.
Wing Commander Brickenden, as Command Flying
Accidents Investigation Officer, has always pursued his duties consistently in
a vigorous and determined manner. His
untiring efforts in determining the causes of obscure accidents have resulted
in material benefits to the Royal Canadian Air Force and his devotion to duty
is worthy of high praise.
BRICKER, F/L Calvin David (C1449) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.430 Squadron - Award effective 23 March as per London
Gazette dated 3 April 1945 and AFRO 765/45 dated 4 May 1945. Born in regina; home in Grenfell,
Saskatchewan; enlisted there 2 January 1940.
Instructed in Canada before going overseas. Award presented 11 January 1948. Attached to USAF, January 1950; first
Canadian to fly the Atlantic in a jet (F-84, July 1950, as part of USAF
exchange duties). Awarded Queen's
Coronation Medal, 23 October 1953 while a Squadron Leader at Station Macdonald.
Prior to the invasion of France this officer
led several missions to obtain photographs of coastal defences and other enemy
installations. On one occasion he dived
to an altitude of 100 feet and although subjected to intense anti-aircraft fire
from a heavily defended position secured excellent photographs. On another occasion over the front lines at
Caen photographs of very good quality were obtained of enemy occupied factory
buildings. On tactical reconnaissance
missions this pilot has also shown keenness and determination which have had
excellent results in locating important enemy troop concentrations.
BRIDGER, FS Thomas Edward (Can 10583) - Mention
in Despatches - No.429 Squadron (AFRO gives unit as No.6512 FGR Depot) -
Award effective 1 January 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and
AFRO 625/45 dated 12 April 1945. Home in
Toronto; enlisted there 20 September 1939.
No citation. DHist file 181.009
D.2619 has recommendation forwarded to No.6 Group Headquarters, 31 July 1944
when he had served 27 months in Canada, 32 months in UK. Repatriated 18 December 1944.
As NCO in charge Servicing for "B"
Flight this NCO has been untiring in his efforts to keep all aircraft
serviceable. By his tact and devotion to
duty he has inspired his men to renewed efforts and by his skill as tradesman
he has instructed them so that the serviceability of his flight has always been
all that could be desired. He has
sacrificed his spare time to instruct his men and has always shown a keenness
and devotion to duty which is outstanding.
BRIDGES, F/O Harold Eugene (J10742) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.77 Squadron - Award effective 3 October 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 2637/44 dated 8 December 1944. Home in Toronto; enlisted there 18 July
1941. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 25
September 1941), No.10 EFTS (graduated 5 December 1941) and No.6 SFTS
(graduated 27 March 1942). Award sent by
registered mail 17 December 1948. Remained in postwar RCAF, (Colonel with
NORAD, 1969), retiiring as a Group Captain in 1972. Ordained an Anglican priest in 1975. Died in Ottawa, 20 June 1994.
In August 1944, this officer piloted an
aircraft in an attack on an enemy storage depot in the Foret de Nieppe. Before reaching the target the aircraft was
hit by anti-aircraft fire. Many holes
were torn in the fuselage and mainplane.
Three engines were damaged, one of them being completely put out of
action. The air bomber was wounded. Considerable height was lost but Flying
Officer Bridges retained control and went on to bomb the target. He afterwards flew the damaged bomber to an
airfield in this country and effected a safe landing although the tail wheel
had been badly damaged. This officer is
a highly efficient and courageous captain.
He has completed many sorties and has displayed the highest standard of
devotion to duty.
BRIGDEN, FS Edward Albert (R100142) - Mention
in Despatches - Station Patricia Bay - Award effective 14 June 1945 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1127/45 dated 6 July 1945. Enlisted in Winnipeg, 26 March 1941. Certificate sent to Patricia Bay, 29 June
1945.
Flight Sergeant Brigden has at all times
completely devoted himself to any duties which have been assigned to him and
has successfully completed them regardless of their degree of difficulty. His untiring efforts have been an inspiration
to all personnel under his supervision.
His technical knowledge of his trade is unsurpassed and he has
consistently maintained clerical efficiency irrespective of serious shortages
of personnel. His contribution has been
of the utmost value to his station.
BRIGGS, F/O William Walter (J88043) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.77 Squadron - Award effective 15 March 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 27 March 1945 and AFRO 1127/45 dated 6 July 1945. Home in Long Branch, Ontario; enlisted
Toronto 25 November 1941. Trained at
No.5 ITS (graduated 24 October 1942), No.10 EFTS (graduated 10 January 1943)
and No.5 SFTS (graduated 14 May 1943).
Award sent by registered mail 6 May 1945. No citation other than "completed...many
successful operations against the enemy in which [he has] displayed high skill,
fortitide and devotion to duty."
Public Records Office Air 2/9051 has recommendation dated 19 December
1944 when he had flown 35 sorties (157 hours four minutes), 7 May to 21
November 1944.
7 May 44 GARDENING,
17 Jul 44 Caen (4.40)
North Sea (3.31) 20 Jul 44 Chapelle
Notre Dame (3.35)
9 May 44 Berneval
(4.12) 28 Jul 44 Foret de Nieppe (3.30)
10 May 44 Lens
(3.51) 7 Aug 44 TOTALIZE 3 (4.10)
22 May 44 Orleans
(5.42) 8 Aug 44 Chapelle Note Dame (3.40)
24 May 44 Beaumont
(3.42) 12 Aug 44 Brunswick (3.35)
5 June 44 Maisy
(5.04) 14 Aug 44 TRACTABLE 22 (4.25)
8 June 44 Alencon
(4.49) 16 Aug 44 Kiel (5.15)
11 Jun 44 Massy-Palaiseau
(4.58) 17 Aug 44 GARDENING, Gironde
12 Jun 44 Amiens
(4.38) Estuary
(6.55)
16 Jun 44 Sterkrade
(4.22) 3 Sept 44 Venlo (4.00)
22 Jun 44 Laon
(5.01) 11 Sep
44 Nordstern (4.35)
24 Jun 44 Noyelle
en Chausse (3.29) 23 Oct 44 Essen (5.35)
25 Jun 44 Montorgueil
(3.24) 25 Oct 44 Essen (4.45)
28 Jun 44 Blainville
(6.50) 28 Oct 44 Walcheren (3.05)
1 July 44 St.Martin
(3.35) 30 Oct 44 Cologne (4.50)
6 July 44 Marquiss
Memo. (4.06) 16 Nov 44 Julich (4.40)
12 Jul 44 Hauts
Boissons (3.50) 18 Nov 44 Munster (5.00)
21 Nov 44 Sterkrade
(5.45)
This captain of aircraft has completed his
first operational tour consisting of 35 sorties which have been carried out
over a wide range of targets and performed during day and night raids.
During his operational tour he has shown
consistently good results and great determination in attacking his allotted
target, resulting in a good photographic record being obtained and one which
shows many aiming point photographs.
Possessed of a liable and cheerful
personality, Flying Officer Briggs has set a splendid example to his crew and
his fine leadership and sustained operational endeavour have contributed
greatly to a highly successful tour which is considered worthy of
recognition. He is strongly recommended
for the Distinguished Flying Cross.
*
* * * *
BRIGHT, F/O William (J26317) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.12 Squadron - Award effective 6 January 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 16 January 1945 and AFRO 508/45 dated 23 March 1945. Home in Waskeda, Manitoba; enlisted Winnipeg,
17 June 1942. Trained at No.2 ITS
(graduated 2 January 1943) and No.5 AOS (graduated 14 May 1943). Award presented 11 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
2/9038 has recommendation dated 12 October 1944 when he had flown 34 1/3
sorties (170 hours 13 minutes), 18 April to 27 September 1944.
*
counted as 1/3 Operation
18 Apr 44 Rouen* 29 June 44 Sirracourt
3 May 44 Mailly
le Camp 30 June 44 Vierzon
7 May 44 Bruz 2 July
44 Don Leger
9 May 44 Merville 4 July 44 Orleans
21 May 44 Duisburg 5 July 44 Dijon
22 May 44 Dortmund 23 July 44 Kiel
24 May 44 Aachen 24 July 44 Stuttgart
27 May 44 Aachen 28 July 44 Stuttgart
2 June 44 Berneval
le Grand 30 July 44 Caumont
4 June 44 Sangatte 31 July 44 Foret de Nieppe
5 June 44 Varreville 10 Aug 44 La Pallice
6 June 44 Achers 28 Aug 44 Fromentel
9 June 44 Flers 6 Sept 44 Le Havre
11 June 44 Evreux 10 Sept 44 Le Havre
12 June 44 Gelsenkirchen 16 Sept 44 Rheine Hopstein
23 June 44 Saintes 19 Sept 44 Calais
24 June 44 Flers 27 Sept
44 Cap Gris Nez
27 June 44 Vaires
Flying Officer Bright, a Canadian, has
completed 34 1/3 operational sorties against the enemy in the role of Air
Bomber, outstanding amongst which have been Duisburg, Dortmund, Aachen,
Gelsenkirchen, Kiel and Stuttgart, and many tactical targets in France vital to
the success of the Allied land operations.
Much of the value of a bombing sortie is lost
unless the bombs can be dropped with considerable accuracy on the aiming
point. Flying Officer Bright have proved
beyond doubt that his skill with a bomb sight has contributed in no small measure
to the successes obtained by his captain and crew.
Flying Officer Bright possesses coolness and a
superb fearlessness in the face of danger which have made him an outstanding
example to other Bomb Aimers. I
unhesitatingly recommend the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to this
officer for his valuable services.
BRIMICOMBE, F/O Vincent Earl (J28631) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.425 Squadron - Award effective 5 July 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 17 July 1945 and AFRO 1507/45 dated 28 September
1945. Home in Admiral Rock, Hants County,
Nova Scotia; enlisted Halifax, 23 June 1942.
Trained at No.5 ITS (graduated 30 December 1942), No.23 EFTS (graduated
2 April 1943) and No.11 SFTS (graduated 23 July 1943). Award presented 17 August 1949. DHist file 181.009 D.1515 has recommendation
dated 24 February 1945 when he had flown 22 sorties (111 hours five minutes),
17 September 1944 to 2 January 1945.
Action described was on 14 October 1944 involving a Me.410.
Flying Officer Brimicombe has been an
exceptionally keen and able pilot and captain of aircraft. On one sortie against Duisburg in October
1944 his rear gunner sighted an enemy fighter about to attack. He immediately warned Flying Officer
Brimicombe who took skilful evasive action.
The enemy fighter attacked twice but [on] both occasions was shaken
off. This officer has always displayed
an outstanding vigilance and devotion to duty.
BRISBIN, P/O Lorne Ivan (J17370) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.101 Squadron -
Award effective 30 November 1943 as per London Gazette dated 10 December
1943 and AFRO 297/44 dated 11 February 1944.
Home in Cold Springs, Ontario; enlisted Niagara Falls, 24 October
1940. Trained at No.7 BGS (graduated 20
July 1941) and No.2 WS (graduated 23 June 1941). Award presented 29 June 1945. No citation other than "completed...many
successful operations against the enemy in which [he has] displayed high skill,
fortitude and devotion to duty."
BRISCOE, F/L Deryk Anderson (J11628) - Mention
in Despatches - ACSEA Communications Squadron - Award effective 1 January
1946 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 155/46 dated 15
February 1946. Born in Warwick, England,
28 August 1919. Home in Victoria where he was a bank teller; enlisted Vancouver
4 March 1941. Trained at No.2 ITS,
Regina (graduated 9 July 1941), No.5 EFTS, High River (graduated 30 August
1941) and posted to No.10 SFTS, Dauphin; ceased training on 19 September 1941;
posted to No.3 AOS, Regina, 21 November 1941 (graduated 2 March 1942), No.2 BGS (graduated 11 April 1942) and No.1
ANS (graduated and commissioned, 11 May 1942). Further trained at No.31 OTU,
Debert, 26 May to 30 June 1942; to RAF Ferry Command, 1 July 1942. Arrived in Britain, 13 July 1942. Sent to No.3
School of General Reconnaissance, then to No.4 (Coastal) OTU before posting to
Invergordon, 18 September 1942; to Malta, 6 December 1942; taken on strength of
No.194 Squadron, India, 30 March 1943. Slightly injured, 29 April 1944 (Dakota
FZ594 "H", overshoot on landing, Imphal; see entry for J.A.
Cook). Posted to Air Command South-East
Asia Communications Flight, 14 May 1944, serving there until 15 June 1945. To UK, 23 June 1945; repatriated to Canada,
31 July 1945; released 28 September 1945.
Certificate sent to Langley Prairie, British Columbia, 20 June
1949. Served in RCAF Auxiliary, 19 June
1951 to 24 February 1953 (No.2442 Aircraft Control and Warning Squadron).
Note: On a form dated 22 June 1945 he claimed
to have flown 82 sorties with No.194 Squadron and the ACSEA Communications Squadron,
totalling 370 hours ten minutes. On
another form, dated 10 July 1945, he repeated these figures, adding that he had
flown 1,172 hours 45 minutes on non-operational duties (total of 1,542 hours 55
minutes). He also broke down his
experience on types as follows: Ventura, 20 hours ten minutes; Botha, 29 hours
ten minutes, Hudson, 373 hours; Dakota, 1,120 hours 35 minutes. Although no citation can be found to his
Mention in Despatches, the following assessment by W/C A. Millson dated 27
April 1945 indicates his work:
A good, sound, reliable officer. He has for some months now filled the
capacity of Navigation Officer in the [ACSEA] Squadron, a job which he has
carried out efficiently and well. Recommended for future employment as a
Navigation Officer.
BRISTOW, F/O William Emerson (17613) - Commended
for Valuable Services - No.525 Squadron - Award effective 1 January 1945 as
per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 132/45 dated 26 January
1945. Home in Edmonton; enlisted there 4
June 1941. Trained at No.2 ITS
(graduated 27 February 1941), No.18 EFTS (graduated 7 November 1941) and No.7
SFTS (graduated 13 March 1942). No
citation.
BRITTAIN, P/O Douglas Graham (J87845) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.431 Squadron - Award effective 1 December 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 12 December 1944 and AFRO 337/45 dated 23 February 1945. Home in Winnipeg; enlisted there 28 November
1942. Trained at No.7 ITS (graduated 20 August 1948) and No.3 BGS (graduated 12
November 1943). Died in Marseilles,
1948. Award presented to his father at
Government House, 7 November 1949. No
citation other than "..in recognition of gallantry and devotion to duty in
the execution of air operations against the enemy." DHist file 181.009 D.5526 (RG.24 Vol.20667)
has recommendation dated 13 September 1944 when he had flown 37 sorties (180
hours 50 minutes), 23 February to 10 September 1944.
This officer, and Air Gunner, has completed 37
sorties over enemy territory, including such targets as Sterkrade, Stuttgart
and Hamburg. Fllying as a spare gunner,
Pilot Officer Brittain has accepted each and every assignment with an engaging
cheerfulness that has been an outstanding example to the whole squadron. In recognition of this officer's persistence
and courage and fearles pursuit of purpose, I strongly recommend that he be
awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.
BRITTAIN, Sq/O Ellen Louise (V30103) - Mention
in Despatches - Western Air Command Headquarters - Award effective 2
February 1946 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 280/46 dated
15 March 1946. Enlisted in Montreal, 18
April 1942.
This officer, by her unflagging enthusiasm and
exceptional ability has greatly improved the standard of messing throughout the
command during the past eighteen months, although frequently having to mess
personnel in almost impossible conditions of overcrowding with inadequate
kitchen staffs, which has had a decided effect on the morale of all stations.
BRITTAIN, P/O Miller Gore (J92491) - 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. Home in Saint John, New Brunsiwck (artist);
enlisted Moncton, 25 July 1942. Trained
at No.3 ITS (graduated 16 April 1943), No.4 BGS (graduated 17 September 1943)
and No.1 AOS (graduated 29 October 1943).
Award sent by registed 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". His pilot was F/O Jack W.
Fraser (awarded DFC at the same time) and his navigator was F/O James V.
Reynolds (also awarded DFC at same time).
Later became an Official War Artist; see biography including service
record in Spring 1978 issue of Journal of the Canadian Aviation Historical
Society". Public Records Office
Air 2/9083 has recommendation dated 15 March 1945 when he had flown 37 sorties
(193 hours three minutes), 23 August 1944 to 23 February 1945.
25 Aug 44 Watten
(2.30) 21 Nov
44 Sterkrade (5.15)
1 Sept 44 Lumbres
(3.29) 30 Nov 44 Duisburg (5.18)
3 Sept 44 Soesterburg
(3.24) 5 Dec 44 Soest (6.11)
15 Sep 44 Kiel
(6.00) 18
Dec 44 Duisburg (6.21)
17 Sep 44 Boulogne
(3.18) 26 Dec 44 St.Vith (6.01)
23 Sep 44 Neuss
(5.11) 5 Jan
45 Hanover (5.41)
25 Sep 44 Calais
(3.37) 6 Jan
45 Hanau (6.46)
26 Sep 44 Calais
(3.29) 12 Jan
45 GARDENING (5.30)
6 Oct 44 Gelsenkirchen
(4.32) 16 Jan 45 Magdeburg (6.31)
7 Oct 44 Cleves
(4.40) 1 Feb
45 Mainz (6.24)
9 Oct 44 Bochum
(5.31) 2 Feb 45 Wanne Eickel (5.25)
14 Oct 44 Duisburg
(4.30) 3 Feb 45 GARDENING (4.15)
29 Oct 44 Westkapelle
(2.58) 7 Feb 45 GARDENING (5.57)
30 Oct 44 Cologne
(6.19) 13 Feb 45 Bohlen (8.19)
31 Oct 44 Cologne
(4.23) 14 Feb 45 Chemnitz (7.46)
2 Nov 44 Dusseldorf
(5.43) 17 Feb 45 Wesel (4.46)
5 Nov 44 Bochum
(4.44) 20 Feb 45 Reisholz (6.40)
6 Nov 44 Gelsenkirchen
(4.16) 23 Feb 45 Essen (5.08)
18 Nov 44 Munster
(5.15)
This officer has now completed his first
operational tour consisting of 37 sorties (141 points) involving 193 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 a Bomb Aimer. He has always shown a high degree of courage,
skill and initiative in action against the enemy.
For his work on operations and devotion to
duty, this officer is strongly recommended for the award of the Distinguished
Flying Cross.
NOTE:
The Station Commander, G/C J.C. Bird (?), added his own comments on 21
March 1945:
This officer has proved one of the most
efficient Bomb Aimers in the squadron.
Throughout their tour his crew has maintained an excellent record of
accurate attacks on the most heavily defended targets and the work of this Bomb
Aimer has been an example to all other crews.
For his excellent record and for his personal
example and devotion to duty the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross is
most strongly recommended.
*
* * * *
BRITTAIN, F/L William Bruce (J28286) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.427 Squadron - Award effective 15 March 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 23 March 1945 and AFRO 721/45 dated 27 April 1945. Home in Ste.Anne de Bellevue, Quebec;
enlisted in Montreal, 18 July 1941.
Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 25 September 1941), No.10 EFTS (graduated
5 December 1941) and No.6 SFTS (graduated 27 March 1942). No citation other than "completed...many
successful operations against the enemy in which [he has] displayed high skill,
fortitude and devotion to duty."
DHist file 181.009 D.1729 (RG.24 Vol.20607) has recommendation dated 17
December 1944 when he had flown 26 sorties (128 hours 50 minutes) from 18 July
to 16 November 1944. At the time he was
a Deputy Flight Commander.
This captain has completed twenty-six heavy
operational bombing attacks against the enemy.
Flight Lieutenant Brittain is a Deputy Flight Commander and his work in
general is outstanding. He sets his mind
on the task in hand and with a fine offensive spirit, setting a magnificent
example not only to his crew but to the entire squadron.
BRITTAN, S/L John (J15229) - Mention in
Despatches - No.6 Group Headquarters - Award effective 1 January 1945 as
per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 337/45 dated 23 February
1945. Home in Hamilton; enlisted there
13 May 1940. Trained at No.1 ITS
(graduated 21 June 1940), No.1 AOS (graduated 14 September 1940), No.1 BGS
(graduated 27 October 1940) and No.1 ANS (graduated 30 November 1940). MiD again 1 January 1946. No citation.
BRITTAN, S/L John (J15229) - Mention in
Despatches - Overseas - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 322/46 dated 29 March 1946. No citation.
BRITTEN, F/O Ralph Isaac Edward (J24431) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.409 Squadron - Award effective 6 February 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 13 February 1945 and AFRO 508/45 dated 23 March 1945. Born 22 October 1922 in Depcousse, Nova
Scotia; home in Arichat, Nova Scotia;
enlisted Halifax, 30 July 1941. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 7 November
1941), No.15 EFTS (graduated 2 January 1942) and No.10 SFTS (graduated 8 May
1942). Staff pilot at No.7 AOS, Portage
la Prairie, 25 May 1942 to 8 March 1943.
Embarked from Halifax, 2 April 1943; arrived in UK, 16 April 1943. Further trained at No.14 AFU (11 May to 17
August 1943), No.12 AFU (17 August to 16 November 1943) and No.51 OTU (16
November 1943 to 29 February 1944. On
strength of No.409 Squadron, 29 February 1944 to 19 April 1945. Repatriated to Canada, 2 August 1945; released
23 September 1944. Victories as follows:
25/26 November 1944, one Ju.88 destroyed, Rheindallen/Krefeld plus one
Ju.88 damaged; 27/28 December 1944,
two Ju.88Gs destroyed, Kaldenkirchen; 21/22 March 1945, one Bf.110
destroyed, Dhunn; 25/26 March 1945, one Ju.88 destroyed, Dortmund. Award sent by registered mail 20 April
1942. His navigator, F/L L.E. Fownes,
also received a DFC.
Flying Officer Britten has completed a large
number of operational sorties.
Throughout he has shown outstanding airmanship, courage and devotion to
duty. He has destroyed three enemy
aircraft and damaged another. However
hazardous the circumstances he has never failed to display great initiative and
resourcefulness.
NOTE: Public Records Office Air 2/9048 has
original recommendation dated 1 January 1945:
Flying Officer Britten is a keen and efficient
night fighter pilot whose aggressiveness and determination have frequently been
demonstrated on operational sorties over the Continent. In the course of these
trips, of which he has made 51 since D Day, he has never failed to show
outstanding initiative and ability, no matter how exacting or hazardous the
circumstances. This fine operational spirit recently paid dividends when Flying
Officer Britten destroyed three and damaged a fourth enemy aircraft in two
night sorties.
BRITTEN, P/O Tom Beverley (J19441) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.220 Squadron - Award effective 28 April 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 5 May 1944 and AFRO 1186/44 dated 2 June 1944. Home in Little Current, Ontario; enlisted in
Toronto, 7 November 1940. Trained at
No.3 ITS (graduated 21 April 1941), No.4 AOS (graduated 29 September 1941),
No.1 BGS (graduated 8 November 1941) and No.2 ANS (graduated 8 December
1941). Award presented 22 November 1948.
During his first tour of operations this
navigator has completed a large number of flying hours, frequently in
circumstances demanding the most precise navigation. He has constantly displayed high skill in his
duties both on the ground and in the air.
He has set a fine example.
BRITTON, P/O Henry (J85998) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.432 Squadron - Award effective 6 January 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 19 January 1945 and AFRO 508/45 dated 23 March 1945. Home in Toronto; enlisted there 3 July
1942. Trained at No.6 ITS (graduated 19
February 1943), No.12 EFTS (graduated 18 April 1943) and No.9 SFTS (graduated 6
August 1943). Award presented by
Governor General at Government House, 26 January 1954. 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.5557
(RG.24 Vol.20668) has recommendation dated 19 October 1944 when he had flown 28
sorties (132 hours 25 minutes), 27 June to 12 October 1944.
Throughout his operational career this officer
has displayed enthusiasm and keenness for operational flying. He has been an inspiration to the members of
his crew and at all times has shown a high degree of airmanship and dogged
determination, having completed twenty-eight successful sorties.
His calm, quiet manner, qualities of
leadership and splendid record warrant a strong recommendation for the award of
the Distinguished Flying Cross (Non-Immediate).
BRITTON, F/L William Bruce (J25816) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.427 Squadron - Award effective 5 April 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 13 April 1945 and AFRO 824/45 dated 18 May 1945. Home in Eston, Saskatchewan; enlisted Regina,
4 May 1942. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 26 September 1942), No.2 EFTS
(graduated 18 December 1942) and No.11 SFTS (graduated 30 April 1943). Award sent by registed mail 11 July
1950. 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." Recommended by W/C V.F. Ganderton, 17
December 1944, at which time he had flown 24 sorties (137 hours 15 minutes on
operations, 18 August to 5 December 1944).
(DHist file 181.009 Docket 1729 (now held by National Archives of
Canada, RG.24 Volume 20607); Recommendation read:
This captain has completed twenty-four heavy
operational bombing attacks against the enemy and his work in general has been
exceptional. On the night of the 23rd
October 1944, this pilot's aircraft was detailed to attack Essen and while
returning from this sortie the aircraft was struck by a four-engined aircraft
flying on a course at right angles to his.
Both fins and rudders sustained considerable damage which caused the
rudders to become locked and the aircraft tail heavy. After finding that the aircraft stalled at
165 miles per hour Indicated Air Speed, the pilot proceeded to England where an
excellent landing was made. This captain
saved his crew from possible injury and by his cool judgement and excellent
airmanship caused no further damage to his aircraft.
SORTIE
LIST
Date Target Time
18 July 1944 Wesseling 5.50
18 July 1944 Mondeville 5.00
20 July 1944 Amaye 4.45
1 August 1944 L'Hey 3.40
2 August 1944 Coquerean 4.25
3 August 1944 Nieppe 4.40
4 August 1944 Casson 4.50
5 August 1944 St.Leu 4.50
7 August 1944 L'Hogue 5.05
9 August 1944 Le
Neuville 4.20
12 August 1944 Le
Breteque 4.40
14 August 1944 Aisy 4.30
15 August 1944 Soesterberg 4.10
16 August 1944 Kiel 5.20
18 August 1944 Connentres 6.20
25 August 1944 St.Mathieu 4.55
6 September 1944 Emden 5.00
11 September 1944 Le Havre 4.10
17 September 1944 Boulogne 3.45
27 September 1944 Sterkrade 5.05
6 October 1944 Dortmund 7.00
22 October 1944 Minelaying sortie 6.10
23 October 1944 Essen 5.50
25 October 1944 Homberg 4.55
6 November 1944 Gelsenkirchen 5.20
16 November 1944 Julich 5.15