BRUCE, S/L Arthur Howard Clair (C7262) - Mention in Despatches - Overseas - Award effective 8 June 1944 as per London Gazette

BRUCE, Sergeant Norman (R136423) - Distinguished Flying Medal - No.14 Squadron - Award effective 21 March 1944 as per London Gazette dated 24 March 1944 and AFRO 921/44 dated 28 April 1944. Born 6 January 1923. Home in Toronto; (enlisted there 29 October 1941. Trained at No.6 ITS (graduated 10 April 1942), No.10 EFTS (graduated 19 June 1942) and No.16 SFTS (graduated 9 October 1941 and promoted Sergeant). To "Y" Depot, Halifax, 23 October 1942. Struck off strength to RAF overseas, 27 October 1942. Commissioned 23 March 1944 (J89122). Reported missing (Prisoner of War), 28 April 1944; reported safe in United Kingdom, 26 May 1945. Repatriated to Canada, 7 July 1945. Released 1 October 1945. Award presented 18 October 1947.

An outstanding captain of aircraft, Sergeant Bruce has completed many difficult sorties. In September 1943, he was detailed for an operation over central Greece. Undeterred by appalling weather, with almost continual lightning he located his target and achieved his objective. On the return flight the weather became even worse and he had the utmost difficulty in retaining control of the aircraft but by superb airmanship Sergeant Bruce overcame the elements and brought his aircraft safely back to base. On all occasions this airman has shown the same courage, dogged endurance and tenacity of purpose to bring each mission to a successful conclusion.

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BRUCE, F/L Stanley Gordon (J10705) - Mention in Despatches - No.10 (BR) Squadron - Award effective 8 June 1944 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 1380/44 dated 30 June 1944. Born in Vernon, British Columbia; educated in Victoria and at University of British Columbia. Engineer with Kootenay Belle Gold Mines, Sheep Creek, British Columbia. Enlisted in Calgary, 1941. Trained at No.4 ITS, No.8 BGS, and No.2 AOS. Had completed 921.30 flying hours to date, 689:40 operational hours (68 sorties).

This officer has flown many hours as a navigator on operations over the North Atlantic area. He has at all times displayed exceptional skill in navigation and outstanding devotion to duty.

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BRUCE, F/L Thomas Douglas (J10358) - Commended for Valuable Services - No.10 EFTS - award effective 1 January 1946 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 82/46 dated 25 January 1946. Enlisted in Toronto 25 February 1941. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 20 August 1941), No.10 EFTS (graduated 7 October 1941), and No.1 SFTS (graduated 27 February 1941).

In forty months of association with flying training, this officer has always shown a very high sense of devotion to duty. He is extremely reliable and undertakes enthusiastically any task assigned to him. His character and leadership are such that he highly influences those associated with him. His standard of efficiency in flying training cannot be overestimated.

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BRUNEAU, F/O Arthur Andrew (J29136) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.547 Squadron - Award effective 19 July 1945 as per London Gazette dated 27 July 1945 and AFRO 1672/45 dated 2 November 1945. Born in Montreal, 28 October 1923; home in Westmount; (enlisted Montreal 5 June 1942. Trained at No.3 ITS (graduated 1 January 1943), No.13 EFTS (graduated 26 March 1943) and No.2 SFTS (graduated 6 August 1943). Commissioned latter date; Flying Officer 6 February 1944. Arrived in UK, 23 November 1943. Further trained at No.6 (C) OTU, 17 February to 4 April 1945 and No.20 (P) AFU, 4 April to 4 July 1944. With No.547 Squadron, 4 July 1944 to 8 July 1945. To Canada, 19 August 1945. Released 10 September 1945. Award presented 22 May 1946.

This officer has taken part in a large number of operational sorties. He is an excellent captain of aircraft whose cool courage in the face of danger has inspired the crew with confidence. On May 5, 1945, Flying Officer Bruneau was captain of an aircraft detailed for a daylight anti-U-boat patrol over the Kattegat. Two fully surfaced enemy submarines were sighted. Despite intense anti-aircraft fire this officer attacked and destroyed one of the enemy vessels.

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BRUNELLE, F/L Joseph Paul Marcel Alphonse (C1066) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.414 Squadron - Award effective 23 March as per London Gazette dated 3 April 1945 and AFRO 765/45 dated 4 May 1945. Home in Montreal; (enlisted there 9 September 1939. Award presented 25 November 1949.

Since joining this squadron this officer has completed a large number of successful operational sorties. He has been employed on targets ranging from Cherbourg to the Ruhr, frequently in the face of intense opposition from heavily defended areas. On all his missions Flight Lieutenant Brunelle has displayed great keenness and a fine fighting spirit. Throughout a period of intensive operations he has shown outstanding ability which coupled with his exceptional courage have made him a highly valuable flight commander.

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BRUNELLE, F/L Marc Fernand (J14821) - Air Force Cross - No.519 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. Home in Penetanguishene, Ontario; enlisted in North Bay, 18 August 1941. Trained at No.4 ITS (graduated 24 January 1942), No.2 WS (graduated 11 September 1942), No.4 BGS (graduated 26 October 1942), and No.4 AOS (graduated 25 June 1943). Award presented in Toronto, 20 November 1949. No citation in AFRO or biographical file. Public Records Office Air 2/9144 identified unit and has recommendation; had flown 700 hours, 441 on current duties, 291 in six months previous to recommendation.

This officer joined the squadron in May 1944. As wireless operator/air gunner in a Fortress aircraft engaged on long range meterological duties, Flight Lieutenant Brunelle has completed numerous sorties during the past twelve months. On a recent occasion, the aircraft was badly damaged by anti-aircraft fire. Displaying great coolness, this crew member skilfully effected repairs to his wireless equipment and thus navigational assistance was obtained. Later, the electrical supply failed. Flight Lieutenant Brunelle used his skill to good purpose by effecting a further repair and bringing into use additional manually manipulated equipment, which he himself operated continuously for 90 minutes. This enabled certain ground stations to plot the damaged aircraft's position as it was slowly flown home. On another occasion, the aircraft in which this officer was flying was struck by lightning during a severe electrical storm. The fuselage was damaged. Although suffering from shock and burns, Flight Lieutenant Brunelle improvised an aerial, a task which necessitated his working in very low temperatures with no protection, thus aggravating the injuries he had already received. Nevertheless, his efforts contributed greatly to the safe return of the aircraft.

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BRUNELLE, Sergeant Paul Joseph (Can 2582) - British Empire Medal - Station East Moor - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 155/46 dated 15 February 1946. Fitter/Armourer. Home in Toronto; enlisted there 12 May 1939. Award presented 9 April 1948. Identified in AFRO as "Overseas". McEwen papers (CWM) with list of recommendations dated 15 June 1945 identifies unit. No citation in AFRO; DHist file 181.009 D.1725 (RG.24 Vol.20607) has recommendation by G/C R.A. McLernon dated 30 April 1945, when he had served 3½ years in Canada and 2½ years overseas.

Sergeant Brunelle is a very outstanding tradesman who has worked unceasingly to improve his technical knowledge of Service Equipment, with marked success. He has received special commendation from Air Ministry for inventions which added to the efficiency of technical devices. He has made untiring efforts to aid airmen in his trade to increase their ability and competence. This NCO's enthusiasm for difficult tasks has remained at a high pitch over a lengthy period of war service. His exceptional and exemplary performance of all duties warrants recognition, and I very strongly recommend that he be awarded the British Empire Medal.

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BRUNET, P/O Arthur Gaston (J17907) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.137 Squadron - Award effective 12 August 1943 as per London Gazette dated 27 August 1943 and AFRO 2198/43 dated 29 October 1943. Home in St.Thomas, Ontario; (enlisted Montreal, 19 September 1939. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 11 February 1941), No.3 EFTS (graduated 10 April 1941) and No.2 SFTS (graduated 11 July 1941). Credited with damaging one FW.190, 24 July 1943; repatriated 8 November 1943; attained rank of Flight Lieutenant, 9 January 1945. Award presented 4 September 1945.

This officer who has completed many sorties both day and night is an extremely able and determined pilot. In the course of his activities Pilot Officer Brunet has attacked numerous locomotives and rolling stock with success. In addition he has attacked many barges and several E-Boats with telling effect. He has set a highly commendable example.

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BRUNTON, F/L Mons Linton (J26449) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.77 Squadron - Award effective 8 September 1945 as per London Gazette dated 21 September and AFRO 1704/45 dated 9 November 1945. Home in Sumerside, Prince Edward Island; (enlisted Toronto 11 March 1942. Trained at No.5 ITS (graduated 11 July 1942), No.13 EFTS (graduated 23 January 1943) and No.2 SFTS (graduated 21 May 1943). Award sent by registered mail 6 May 1949.

Flight Lieutenant Brunton has completed a successful tour of operational duty which has included many mine-laying missions. He has also taken part in several bombing attacks against heavily defended enemy targets. In March 1945 this officer was detailed for an attack against Essen in daylight. While some 100 miles from his target one engine of his aircraft failed but, with great skill and determination, Flight Lieutenant Brunton pressed on and completed his mission. Throughout his tour of operations, this officer has shown consistent keenness and devotion to duty.

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BRUSER, S/L David Moses (C5879) - Member, Order of the British Empire - No.7 SFTS - Award effective 26 May 1944 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 1380/44 dated 30 June 1944. Born in Humboldt, Saskatchewan; educated there and University of Manitoba. Enlisted in Regina, June 1941. Award presented 14 February 1945.

As Senior Medical Officer on a Service Flying Training School, Squadron Leader Bruser has displayed qualities of professional and administrative abilities much above average. Due to his skill as a surgeon he has been called upon to perform operations for all stations in southern Alberta. As a result he has devoted much time over and above normal working hours to fulfil the many tasks he has been called upon to do. The organization and administration of the station's sick quarters function smoothly under his direction. His outstanding devotion to duty and unfailing cheerfulness have been an inspiration to all with whom he has come in contact.

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BRUSH, F/O Garfield Charles (J38297) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.415 Squadron - Award effective 8 September 1945 as per London Gazette dated 21 September and AFRO 1704/45 dated 9 November 1945. Home in Sault Ste.Marie, Ontario; (enlisted Toronto, 30 April 1942. Trained at No.5 ITS (graduated 24 October 1942), No.10 EFTS (ceased training 23 November 1942), No.4 BGS (graduated 2 October 1943) and No.4 AOS (graduated 1 December 1943). Award sent by registered mail 28 June 1949.

Flying Officer Brush has shown exceptional ability as a bombing leader. His crew has often been chosen to lead heavy bombing attacks. On two such sorties in March 1945, he was responsible for leading particularly heavy concentrations of bombers against Mannheim and Dorsten. On both these occasions Flying Officer Brush contributed greatly to the success of the operations.

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BRUSHETTE, Sergeant Albert (R67151) - Mention in Despatches - Middleton St.George - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 155/46 dated 15 February 1946. Home in Kingston, Ontario; (enlisted there 14 September 1940. Certificate sent 20 June 1949. No citation in AFRO. DHist file 181.009 D.4364 (RG.24 Vol.20648) has recommendation for a BEM dated 29 April 1945 which identifies unit (referred to in AFRO only as "Overseas").

Sergeant Brushette has made an outstanding contribution to the standard of electrical maintenance of aircraft on the station. He is an exceptionally fine tradesman and is keenly interested in keeping abreast of all changes. He is an excellent NCO and has shown exceptional devotion to duty.

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BRUTON, F/L Patrick Joseph (J6669) - Mention in Despatches - Station Yarmouth - Award effective 6 January 1945 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 132/45 dated 26 January 1945. Enlisted in Regina, 26 November 1940. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 9 March 1941), No.15 EFTS (graduated 16 May 1941) and No.34 SFTS (graduated 8 August 1941).

This officer, as a captain in the meteorological flight, has proven himself to be a very skilful and able pilot. His work has at all times been of a very high standard and he has set a splendid record of achievement. Despite hazardous weather conditions he has carried out his flights with praiseworthy courage and devotion to duty.

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BRUYERE, Sergeant George Joseph Robert (R54826) - Distinguished Flying Medal - No.425 Squadron - Award effective 1 December 1942 as per London Gazette dated 4 December 1942 and AFRO 2069/42 dated 18 December 1942. Home in Montreal; enlisted there 27 March 1940. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 4 January 1941), No.1 WS (graduated 21 July 1941), and No.6 BGS (graduated 18 August 1941). Award presented by King George 30 March 1943. Born in Ottawa; home in Montreal. Cited with P/O J.A.T. Doucette, DFC.

On November 6, 1942, Pilot Officer Doucette and Sergeant Bruyere were captain and wireless operator respectively of an aircraft detailed to attack an objective in Northwest Germany in daylight. On the outward flight the aircraft was attacked by three enemy fighters. Sergeant Bruyere was seriously injured, sustaining a broken leg and wounds in the chest, arm, forehead and left hand. A member of the crew, when going to his assistance, stepped on the escape hatch and fell through it but Sergeant Bruyere caught him and assisted him back to safety. When the engagement with the enemy fighter was terminated, Pilot Officer Doucette flew on and attacked his target. On the return journey Sergeant Bruyere, despite his critical condition, advised his colleagues on the operation of his wireless equipment in extremely difficult circumstances. Both Pilot Officer Doucette and Sergeant Bruyere displayed indomitable courage and unswerving devotion to duty.

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BRUYNS, F/L Franciscus (J36355) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.419 Squadron - Award effective 8 September 1945 as per London Gazette dated 21 September and AFRO 1704/45 dated 9 November 1945. Home in Cornwall, Ontario; enlisted in Ottawa 24 August 1942). Trained at No.6 ITS (graduated 14 June 1943, No.12 EFTS (graduated 11 June 1943) and No.2 SFTS (graduated 1 October 1943). Invested with decoration 7 August 1946. DHist file 181.009 D.1741 (RG.24 Vol.20612) has recommendation by W/C H.F. Ferguson dated 18 April 1945 when he had flown 35 sorties (231 hours), 16 August 1944 to 27 February 1945. Recommendation mentioned five separate occasions when attacked by fighters; Stettin trip in citation was 29 August 1944.

This officer has completed numerous operational missions. He has proved himself an outstanding pilot and captain of aircraft. At various time Flight Lieutenant Bruyns has delivered successful attacks on such targets as Essen, Stettin, Bochum and Cologne, frequently encountering heavy opposition. Early in his operational tour he flew his aircraft safely back to base from a sortie to Stettin, although one engine had been rendered unserviceable over the target. On many of his missions Flight Lieutenant Bruyns has been in combat with enemy fighters but on each of these occasions his skill and close co-operation with his crew have resulted in the frustration of the enemy. He has damaged two enemy fighters.

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BRYAN, F/L Anthony John Adrian (J21120) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.417 Squadron - Award effective 31 July 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 1507/45 dated 28 September 1945. Home in Monteray, Mexico; enlisted Windsor, Ontario, 1 December 1941. Trained at No.5 ITS (graduated 9 May 1942), No.13 EFTS (graduated 31 July 1942) and No.2 SFTS (graduated 20 November 1942). Credited with the destruction of one FW.190, 15 May 1944 (shared with three other pilots) as a member of No.403 Squadron. Repatriated 9 September 1945; released 27 September 1945. Invested with decoration 27 November 1946.

This officer is a highly skilled and courageous pilot. He has completed a large number of operational missions and on numerous occasions has led a formation of aircraft in attacks against enemy mechanical transport, guns and armoured vehicles, inflicting much damage. Throughout, Flight Lieutenant Bryan has displayed a high degree of efficiency and keenness, setting a fine example to all. His determination to make every sortie a success is particularly noteworthy.

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BRYANS, A/C John George (C116) - Mention in Despatches - Station Leeming - Award effective 1 January 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 33/45 dated 23 February 1945. Born at Kenora, Ontario, 26 February 1906. Attended University of Saskatchewan (Mechanical Engineering). Enlisted as a P/P/O at Saskatoon, 4 June 1929. Flying Officer, 4 June 1930; Flight Lieutenant, 1 April 1936; Squadron Leader, 1 April 1939. In June 1941 sent to Washington (Air Member, Canadian Joint Staff); appointed CO, Station Rockcliffe, November 1942; overseas in UK, June 1943 to July 1945, returning to post of Deputy Air Member for Technical Services. Attended Imperial Defence College, 1949, followed by staff posts at AFHQ. AOC, 14 Training Group, Winnipeg (August 1951 to September 1955), and ultimately commanded Training Command with rank of A/V/M. Queen's Coronation Medal, 23 October 1953 while an Air Commodore commanding No.14 (Training) Group. Ottawa Citizen obituary article in issue of 31 August, 1993 noted that he had died August 24th, 1993 in Reykjavik, Iceland. Described as "a man with an insatiable hunger for knowledge and a desire to better the world around him". After retiring from RCAF in 1960s, he had taken 53 courses at Carleton University without credit "simply for the love of learning". Carleton finally bestowed on him an Honourary degree. He had also taken research trips to Australia, the Sahara, Arctic and Antarctica. He was on a scientific voyage related to environmental protection when he suffered a shipboard fall and died one week later. Survived by one daughter (Mary Begg, Maple Ridge, British Columbia), two granddaughters and a sister. Medals and logbooks displayed in RCAF Museum, Trenton, Ontario. No citation to MiD.

BRYANS, A/C John George (C116) - Officer, Order of the British Empire - No.6 Group - Award effective 14 June 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 1219/45 dated 27 July 1945. Upgraded to CBE, 13 June 1946. No citation to OBE in Canadian sources. Public Records Office Air 2/9056 has recommended citatio, apparently for a New Year's Day award but postposed to Birthday Honours List.

This officer is the Air Officer in charge of administration for his Group, an appointment which he took up after commanding two stations and an operational base. His ability, enthusiasm and tireless efforts have made an outstanding contribution to the Group's operational effort. In addition to his administrative duties this officer has made several operational sorties to obtain first hand knowledge and experience of the conditions under which his air crews operate. The high morale of the units for which he is responsible is a further testimony of the soundness of his judgment and the high order of his administrative ability.

BRYANS, A/C John George (C116) - Commander, Order of the British Empire - RCAF Headquarters - Award effective 13 June 1946 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 660/46 dated 5 July 1946. Invested with decoration 8 April 1948.

Air Commodore Bryans has served with outstanding efficiency in senior Staff and Command positions throughout the war. Following an arduous period of staff duty in plans and operations at Air Force Headquarters early in the war he carried out, with distinction, the duties of Air Attache and subsequently a staff position on the Canadian Joint Staff in Washington, U.S.A. Then followed command of an operational station in Canada, after which he proceeded overseas where he commanded a large heavy bomber station. As a result of fine ability and achievement he was promoted to command a Base Headquarters where he made an outstanding contribution by his brilliant leadership and hard work. He subsequently assumed the heavy responsibility of Air Officer in charge of administration at the Canadian Bomber Group Headquarters, which position he held until the end of the war in Europe. The cessation of hostilities brought no relief for he continues his strenuous and efficient efforts in his position of Director of RCAF Construction Engineering which, during this long period of reorganization, continues to carry heavy responsibility. The ready acceptance of heavy responsibility and the discharge of difficult duties with energy, initiative and sound judgement, and an unusually high degree of service spirit have characterized his efforts throughout. His outstanding contribution achieved with unfailing enthusiasm and a high order of example is worthy of recognition.

* * * * *

BRYDEN, P/O John Thomas (J50658) - Commended for Valuable Services - No.8 OTU - Award effective 21 July 1945 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 1478/45 dated 21 September 1945. Home in North Sydney, Nova Scotia; enlisted Halifax, 12 August 1941. Trained at No.3 ITS (graduated 27 February 1942), No.17 EFTS (graduated 22 May 1942) and No.8 SFTS (graduated 11 September 1942). The incident described occurred on 9 April 1945 (Mosquito HG857). See DHist file 181.009 D.3050 (RG.24 Vol.20634); the initial reaction of EAC Headquarters was to query whether Bryden's actions constituted dangerous flying; by the book he should have either gained altitude or carried on ahead to a forced landing. An instructor on staff, Squadron Leader H.C. Stewart, angrily wrote that "the book" did not apply - in part because "Mosquito landings away from aerodromes are practically always fatal crashes" and partly because the widely spread out town of Kingston, Nova Scotia lay directly in the path of the aircraft (Stewart to Reyno, 28 May 1945). The unit CO, Group Captain Reyno, concurred (30 May 1945), adding, "If this aircraft, which is of wooden construction throughout, had crash landed in or even near a populated area, with a full load of fuel on board, the results would have been most disastrous." See also DHist file 181.009 D.1509 (RG.24 Vol.20599) which has much the same material but also recommendation for AFC dated 4 May 1945 describing the incident in detail including Mosquito serial (HG857). As of that date he had flown 1,472 hours of which 186 were in previous six months; he had flown 152 hours as instructor (all in previous six months).

This officer, while acting as an instructor in a Mosquito aircraft, was demonstrating engine failure on take-off when the port engine burst into flames shortly after the aircraft had become airborne. He immediately took over control from his pupil and then carried out all the necessary actions to extinguish the flames. However, the fire did not subside. Pilot Officer Bryden, with great calm and judgement, then made a descending turn of 170° and crash landed on the aerodrome. This cool and deliberate action, which doubtlessly saved the occupants of the aircraft, was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Royal Canadian Air Force.

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BRYDON, F/L Newton Reid (J17141) - Mention in Despatches - No.408 Squadron - Award effective 1 January 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 337/45 dated 23 February 1945. Home in Waterville, Nova Scotia; enlisted Halifax, 22 April 1941. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 8 August 1941), No.5 AOS (graduated 9 November 1941), No.7 BGS (graduated 17 January 1942) and No.1 ANS (graduated 19 February 1942). Squadron Bombing Leader. Postwar RCAF including No.103 Search and Rescue Unit, Halifax. Invested with decoration in Halifax 27 July 1949. No citation in AFRO; DHist file 181.009 D.1719 (PAC RG.24 Vol.20606) has recommendation forwarded 31 July 1944. Enlisted 21 April 1941; served eleven months in Canada, 28 months in UK.

Flight Lieutenant Brydon has been with this squadron for several months during which time he has proven himself to be an extremely capable and efficient section commander. He has completed one tour of operations with an excellent record and his service career as a whole has been an admirable one. His cheerfulness and untiring energy have greatly contributed to the excellence of his section.

BRYDON, F/L Newton Reid (J17141) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.408 Squadron - Award effective 15 March 1945 as per London Gazette dated 23 March 1945 and AFRO 721/45 dated 27 April 1945. 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.1515 (RG.24 Vol.20600) has recommendation dated 6 November 1944. First tour had been 23 sorties (135 hours 45 minutes), 9 August 1942 to 21 January 1943. Second tour (to date) had been 17 sorties (89 hours 40 minutes), 10 November 1943 to 6 November 1944 (interrupted; only one sortie in November 1943, none in December 1943, one in January, one in February, none in March and only one in May, June and July 1944).

Flight Lieutenant Brydon has completed one tour of operations and is well on his way to completing his second tour. He has bombed many heavily defended targets in Germany, many of which being in the Ruhr. No matter how intense the defences which were encountered, Flight Lieutenant Brydon by his exemplary conduct and devotion to duty, proved to be a definite asset to his crew. His bombing record is superior and at present he holds the position of Bombing Leader for the squadron. Here again his devotion to ground training and operational flying is beyond reproach.

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BRYENTON, F/O Gordon Alexander McLean (J16522) - Mention in Despatches - Overseas - Award effective 8 June 1944 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 1729/44 dated 11 August 1944. Home in New Westminster; enlisted in Hamilton, Ontario, 16 September 1940. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 7 February 1941), No.7 EFTS (graduated 10 April 1941) and No.2 SFTS (graduated 11 July 1941). No citation in AFRO.

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BRYERS, F/O Charles Robert (J16285) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.62 Squadron - Award effective 24 May 1944 as per London Gazette dated 2 June 1944 and AFRO 1660/44 dated 4 August 1944. Born 8 July 1916 in Toronto; home in Schumaker, Ontario; part-time clerk before the war; enlisted North Bay, 23 September 1940. At No.2 Manning Depot, Brandon, 23 September to 13 October 1940; at No.2 Wireless School, Calgary, 13 October to 10 December 1940 (non-flying duties); posted to No.2 ITS, Regina, 11 December 1940 (graduated 11 January 1941; promoted LAC on 14 January 1941), No.8 EFTS (graduated 10 April 1941) and No.4 SFTS (graduated 3 July 1941 and promoted Sergeant). Posted to Halifax, 5 July 1941; embarked 23 July 1941; arrived in Britain 9 or 12 August 1941; posted to No.3 Personnel Reception Unit (Bournemouth), with effect from 9 August 1941; to No.17 OTU, 16 August 1941 (bomber training, Blenheims, 70 hours); to No.1428 Conversion Flight, 2 January 1942 (conversion to Hudson, 34 hours flown); promoted to Flight Sergeant, 3 January 1942; to No.1444 FTF, 26 February 1942 (ferry work, Hudsons, 29 hours); to No.139 Squadron for one month, then to No.62 Squadron (general reconnaissance and bombing, Southeast Asia Command) on 13 April 1942 (Hudson and Dakota, 1,047 hours); promoted Warrant Officer 2nd Class, 3 July 1942 and Warrant Officer, 1st Class, 1 August 1942; commissioned 2 December 1942; promoted Flying Officer on 2 June 1943; to Communication Squadron, Southeast Asia Command, 23 July 1944 (Dakota transports, 20 hours); to New Delhi (date uncertain); to BRD (holding unit), 30 August 1944; to HOTC (holding unit), 25 October 1944; to Repatriation Depot, 16 November 1944; to Canada, 27 November 1944. On repatriation he filled out a form (dated 17 November 1944) on which he calculated his flying as 46 hours on bomber work, 101 hours on coastal patrols, 501 hours on transport (738 operational hours), plus 462 training and non-operational hours; promoted Flight Lieutenant, 2 December 1944; to No.6 OTU Comox, 9 January to 21 July 1945; to KTS, Toronto, 22 July 1945; released 20 September 1945. Poswar mining assayer in British Columbia. Rejoined the RCAF, 29 August 1951 in Victoria. Attended FIS Trenton, 15 February to 15 June 1953; to No.2 FTS Moose Jaw, 16 June 1953. Killed 30 December 1953 at Moose Jaw, Harvard AJ969 with LAC Francis Harry Tozer, Equipment Technican, checking aircraft after routine maintenance inspection. Crashed out of control, no witnesses, cause unknown.

During the period April 1942 to May 1943, this pilot completed numerous reconnaissance and shipping escort patrols over the Bay of Bengal and in addition took part in night bombing sorties over Burma. Since January 1944 he has been engaged in dropping supplies to troops in the Arakan and Kaladin river regions and latterly in operations involving the landing of troops and supplies inside enemy territory. Throughout a long period of operational duty Flying Officer Bryers has earned a fine reputation as a dependable captain of aircraft who can be relied upon to complete his allotted tasks in the face of all hazards.

NOTE: Public Record Office Air 2/9627 has recommendation dated 17 March 1944, drafted when he had flown 400 operational hours. It differs in some specifics and is transcribed here for the record:

This pilot carried out numerous reconnaissances and shipping escorts over the Bay of Bengal during the period April 1942 - May 1943, totalling 200 hours. In addition, he successfully completed night bombing sorties over Burma.

Since early in January 1944 he has been continually engaged on supply dropping operations over the Arakan and the Kaladan River areas. In addition, he took part in the recent operations which involved the landing of troops ad stores inside enemy territory. During this period he has completed a further 170 hours operational flying.

Throughout a long period of operational flying, this officer has set a fine example, both by his skill as a pilot and his cheerfulness under all conditions. He has earned himself the reputation of being one of the squadron's most dependable captains, who can be called upon at all times to undertake any mission, irrespective of the difficulties and dangers which it involves. The greater the risk, the more he appears to like it.

NOTES ON TRAINING: AT EFTS logged 26.50 dual, 25.00 solo and 6.30 Link, 5.10 on instruments. 16 January to 5 March 1941. At SFTS, 17 May o 3 July 1941 logged 46.30 day dual, 37.40 day solo, 2.55 night dual, 7.05 night solo on Cessnas plus 18.25 on instruments and 18.30 on Link. "An above average student, possessing a high degree of ability and industry. Aptitude and attitude towards the service excellent." (GROUND) - Assessment on AIR - "Very quick to absorb instruction. Courteous and willing to work; flying above average. Is very alert in air and has air sense. Handles aircraft well and is good pilot on instruments and at night."

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BRYSON, F/O Allan Alexander (J25317) - Distinguished Flying Cross -No.408 Squadron - Award effective 4 November 1944 as per London Gazette dated 14 November 1944 and AFRO 239/45 dated 9 February 1945. Home in Winnipeg; enlisted there 21 May 1942. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 10 October 1942), No.2 EFTS (graduated 18 December 1942) and No.12 SFTS (graduated 16 April 1943). Award sent by registered mail 24 February 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." DHist file 181.009 D.1633 (RG.24 Vol.20603) has recommendation dated 16 August 1944 when he had flown 31 sorties (158 hours 33 minutes), 27 January to 27 July 1944. Rank given as Flying Officer (Acting Flight Lieutenant).

Flight Lieutenant Bryson has completed a very large number of sorties against very many heavily defended targets in Germany, including five to Berlin and others to Essen, Frankfurt and Stuttgart. On every occasion he has pressed home his attacks with great determination, completely disregarding the heaviest enemy defences. Photographic evidence of all his operations have indicated the extreme accuracy with which these missions were carried out, and he has set a splendid example to the whole squadron.

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BRYSON, F/O Cecil Walsh (J19782) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.578 Squadron - Award effective 15 March 1945 as per London Gazette dated 23 March 1945 and AFRO 721/45 dated 27 April 1945. Home in Ormstown, Quebec; enlisted Montreal, 23 February 1942. Trained at No.6 ITS (graduated 11 September 1942), No.7 EFTS (graduated 4 December 1942) and No.9 SFTS (graduated 30 April 1943). Award sent by registered mail 6 May 1949. 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 2/9050 has recommendation dated 14 December 1944 when he had flown 39 sorties (141 hours 39 minutes).

# second pilot

* daylight sortie

24 May 44 Aachen (4.07)# 2 Aug 44 Le Nieppe (3.22)*

6 June 44 Chateaudun (5.57) 3 Aug 44 Foret de Nieppe (3.11)*

8 June 44 Alencon (5.19) 5 Aug 44 Foret de Nieppe (3.19)*

11 Jun 44 Massey Palaiseau (4.44) 6 Aug 44 Hazebrouck (3.19)*

12 Jun 44 Amiens (4.32) 7 Aug 44 TOTALIZER 3 (4.31)

14 Jun 44 Douai (3.40) 9 Aug 44 Foret de Mormal (3.54)*

17 Jun 44 St.Martin l'Hortier (4.05) 11 Aug 44 Somains (3.53)*

22 Jun 44 Siracourt (3.50)* 31 Aug 44 Lumbre (3.24)*

23 Jun 44 Oisemont (3.37) 3 Sept 44 Venlo (4.11)*

27 Jun 44 Marquis Mimoyecques (3.43)* 4 Sept 44 Boulogne (3.36)

30 Jun 44 Villers Bocage (4.25)* 10 Sep 44 Le Havre (3.31)*

1 July 44 Oisemont (4.02)* 11 Sep 44 Gelsenkirchen (4.25)*

4 July 44 St.Martin l'Hortier (3.40)* 30 Sep 44 Bottrop (4.18)*

5 July 44 St.Martin l'Hortier (3.40) 6 Oct 44 Sterkrade (4.47)*

6 July 44 Croixdale (3.25) 7 Oct 44 Kleves (2.38)*

18 Jul 44 Vaires (4.22) 15 Oct 44 Wilhelmshaven (4.14)

20 Jul 44 Bottrop (4.42) 28 Oct 44 Domburg (2.49)

23 Jul 44 Kiel (5.15) 29 Nov 44 Sterkrade (5.54)

28 Jul 44 Foret de Nieppe (3.41) 30 Nov 44 Duisburg (5.01)

1 Aug 44 Anderbelck (3.36)

Flight Lieutenant Bryson has carried out 39 operations totalling 141 hours 39 minutes, during which he has shown a fine spirit of determination and keenness to reach and bomb every objective.

These characteristics were particularly marked in a night attack on Bottrop on 20/21st July 1944. In the first run up to the target he found that his bomb doors were unserviceable. In spite of heavy flak and fighter flares he at once decided to make an orbit and on the second run over the target bombed successfully and brought back an aiming point photograph. On another occasion in the course of a daylight attack upon Gelsenkirchen on the 11th of September, his aircraft was holed by flak in many places, cut this captain pressed home his attack with the utmost determination, and did not allow the opposition to prevent him from dropping his bombs on the town. Throughout his tour Flight Lieutenant Bryson has shown himself to be, in every way, a particularly skilful and thoroughly reliable captain and pilot.

For his exceptional qualities of leadership and his fine achievement this officer is strongly recommended for the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.

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BRYSON, W/C Elmer Maurice (J5116) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.429 Squadron - Award effective 4 November 1944 as per London Gazette dated 14 November 1944 and AFRO 239/45 dated 9 February 1945. Home in Barrie, Ontario; enlisted Toronto, 12 August 1940. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 26 October 1940), No.13 EFTS (graduated 23 December 1940) and No.8 SFTS (graduated 7 April 1941). Award sent by registered mail 3 February 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.2609 (RG.24 Vol.20627) has recommendation dated 21 August 1944 when he was a Squadron Leader; he had then flown 34 sorties (176 hours 45 minutes) from 21 January to 16 August 1944.

Squadron Leader Bryson has completed thirty-four operational sorties, many of which have been against the most heavily defended targets. At all times he has shown great fortitude, skill and courage in pressing home his attacks. His cheerfulness and eagerness to come to grips with the enemy have been most inspiring to other men in the Squadron. As a flight commander, he has been largely responsible for the supervision of training both in the air and on the ground. He has been a tower of strength contributing in no small means to the efficiency of the Squadron.

BRYSON, W/C Elmer Maurice, DFC (J5116) - Mention in Despatches - No.1664 Conversion Unit - Award effective 1 January 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 337/45 dated 23 February 1945.

BRYSON, W/C Elmer Maurice, DFC (J5116) - Mention in Despatches - No.427 Squadron - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 322/46 dated 29 March 1946. AFRO gives unit only as "Overseas"; unit found in McEwen Papers list of recommendations for MiD. Certificate mailed 13 August 1948.

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BRYSON, WO Howard (R110822) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.97 Squadron - Award effective 6 November 1943 as per London Gazette dated 16 November 1943 and AFRO 2610/43 dated 17 December 1943. Home in Winnipeg; enlisted there 24 June 1941. Trained at No.2 BGS (graduated 3 February 1942) and No.2 WS (graduated 1 February 1942). NOTE: graduation dates impossible and should be checked. Later commissioned (J87940). Invested with decoration at Esquimalt, 21 July 1956. No citation in AFRO other than "completed many successful operations against the enemy in which [he] displayed high skill, fortitude and devotion to duty."

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