DE BARTOK, P/O Ernest Akos Frederick (J15717)
- Distinguished Flying Cross - No.101 Squadron - Award effective 2
November 1942 as per London Gazette dated 6 November 1942 and AFRO
272/43 dated 19 February 1943. Born in
Budapest, 26 June 1917. Home in
Montreal; enlisted there 10 October 1940.
Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 20 February 1941), No.11 EFTS (graduated
22 April 1941), and No.8 SFTS (graduated 27 July 1941). Commissioned March 1942.
This officer has a splendid operational record
as a pilot. He is keen and persevering
when pressing home his attacks regardless of opposition. In August 1942, Pilot Officer De Bartok took
part in a daylight raid on Emden.
Despite nine attacks on his aircraft by a Messerschmitt 109 and on the
return journey being shadowed by three other enemy aircraft, by his skilful
evasive action he brought his aircraft back to base undamaged. Pilot Officer De Bartok has shown outstanding
ability and dogged determination to duty and is a most valuable member of his
squadron.
NOTE: Public Records Office Air 2/9604 has
recommendation dated 15 September 1942 when he had flown 30 sorties (160
operational hours).
8 Apr 42 Hamburg 23 July 42 Duisburg
10 Apr 42 Essen 26 July 42 Hamburg
12 Apr 42 Essen 31 July 42 Dusseldorf
14 Apr 42 Dortmund 6 Aug 42 Duisburg
15 Apr 42 Dortmund 9 Aug 42 Osnabruck
10 June 42 Emden 13 Aug 42 GARDENING, Frisians
17 June 42 St.Nazaire 15 Aug 42 Dusseldorf
19 June 42 Emden 17 Aug 42 Osnabruck
22 June 42 Emden 23 Aug 42 Emden (day)
25 June 42 Bremen 24 Aug 42 Frankfurt
26 June 42 GARDENING,
St.Nazaire 27 Aug 42 Kassel
29 June 42 Bremen 28 Aug 42 Nuremburg
2 July 42 Bremen 9 Sept 42 GARDENING, Heligoland
13 July 42 Duisburg 13 Sept 42 Bremen
21 July 42 Duisburg 14 Sept 42 Wilhelmshaven
This officer has a splendid operational record
as a pilot and has proved to be keen and persevering in his sorties regardless
of opposition.
On the 23rd August 1942 this pilot carried out
a very successful daylight raid on Emden, on which occasion he pressed home his
attack with vigour and determination. Whilst returning to base a ME.109 made
nine attacks, and he was shadowed by three FW.190s. By skilful evasive action
he brought his aircraft back without damage.
Pilot Officer de Bartok is a very reliable and
competent captain and by his cheerful disposition and ability he has proved a
great asset to the squadron. He has also applied for an extension of his
operational tour. This officer is
recommended for the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.
*
* * * *
DE BECK, F/O Henry Keary (J23714) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.625 Squadron - Award effective 2 October 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 13 October 1944 and AFRO 2637/44 dated 8 December 1944. Born 1916 in Vancouver. Home in Victoria, British Columbia; enlisted
in Vancouver, 31 March 1942. Trained at
No.4 ITS (graduated 9 October 1942) and No.2 AOS (graduated 5 February 1943). Commissioned 1943. 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
2/9026 has recommendation dated 12 July 1944 when he had flown 30 2/3 sorties
(155 hours), 22 March to 6 July 1944.
Appears to have been in same crew as FS C.E. Callas.
9 Apr 44 Villeneuve
St. Target bombed; aiming point
photographed.
St.George
10 Apr 44 Aulnoye
(1/3) Target bombed; photograph
of target.
18 Apr 44 Rouen Target bombed.
20 Apr 44 Cologne Target bombed.
22 Apr 44 Dusseldorf Target bombed; photograph of
target.
24 Apr 44 Karlsruhe Starboard inner feathered on way
to target. Attacked by fighters twice.
26 Apr 44 Essen Target bombed.
27 Apr 44 Friedrichshafen Target bombed. Attacked by Ju.88. No combat
through evasive action. No damage. Photograph of target.
30 Apr 44 Maintenon
(1/3) Target bombed; aiming point
photograph.
1 May 44 Lyons Target bombed.
3 May 44 Mailly-le-Camp Target bombed. Aiming point photograph.
Four fighter attacks.
7 May 44 Bruz Target bombed;
photograph of target.
9 May 44 Merville Target bombed; photograph of
target.
10 May 44 Dieppe Target bombed. Photograph 200
yards from aiming point.
15 May 44 Kiel
Bay Mines successfully
laid within 200 yards.
24 May 44 Dunkirk Target bombed.
31 May 44 Tergnier Target bombed. Extreme weather
conditions. Photograph 110 yards from aiming point.
5 June 44 Crisbecq Target bombed.
6 June 44 Vire Target bombed;
photograph of target.
7 June 44 Foret
de Cerisy Target bombed.
10 June 44 Acheres Target bombed.
12 June 44 Gelsenkirchen Target bombed; photograph of target.
14 June 44 Le
Havre Target bombed;
aiming point photographic result commended.
15 June 44 Boulogne Target bombed.
22 June 44 Reims Target bombed.
24 June 44 Les
Hayons Target bombed. Hit
several times by anti-aircraft fire. Aiming point photograph.
25 June 44 Liegescourt Target bombed; aiming point
photograph.
27 June 44 Vaires Target bombed. Attacked by
Ju.88. Aiming point photograph.
29 June 44 Siracourt Target bombed; aiming point
photograph.
4 July 44 Orleans Target bombed; photograph of
target.
5 July 44 Dijon Target bombed; aiming
point photograph.
6 July 44 Foret
de Croq Target bombed; aiming point
photograph.
A most able and gallant aircrew member, Flying
Officer de Beck, a Canadian, has now completed his first tour of operations. He
has completed 30 2/3 sorties and 155 hours flying as navigator in a very
gallant Lancaster crew and has taken part in attacks on may strongly defended
targets including Dusseldorf, Essen, Friedrichshafen and Gelsenkirchen.
He is completely at ease in the air despite
severe enemy opposition and has always continued with his own duties with a
coolness and determination worthy of the highest praise. His complete cooperation with his Captain and
Air Bomber have contributed in no small degree to the outstanding successes
obtained by his crew.
He has had on occasions to navigate under most
trying and difficult weather conditions but his ability and accuracy have
always brought the aircraft to its target.
His cheerfulness has inspired the confidence
of all who have flown with him in particular whilst acting as an experienced
navigator to crews on their initial operational sortie. He has at all times shown commendable courage
and devotion to duty and I consider he fully merits the award of the
Distinguished Flying Cross.
*
* * * *
DE BOW, F/O Everett Saunders (J21418) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.424 Squadron - Award effective 1 December 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 8 December 1944 and AFRO 337/45 dated 23 February 1945. Born 1914 in Forest Glen, New Brunswick. Home in Elgin, New Brunswick (truck driver);
enlisted in Moncton, 15 June 1940.
Trained at No.3 ITS (graduated 24 April 1942), No.17 EFTS (graduated 31
July 1942) and No.8 SFTS (graduated 4 December 1942). Commissioned 1942. 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.2609 (RG.24 Vol.20627) has recommendation dated 11
September 1944 when he had flown 39 sorties (192 hours 25 hours), 18 April to
27 August 1944.
Flying Officer De Bow has completed 39 sorties
over enemy territory, many of which were over heavily defended targets such as
Dusseldorf, Karlsruhe, Aachen, Stuttgart and Kiel.
He rapidly earned the full confidence of his
crew and set himself up as one of the best Captains in his flight. The courage and determination which he at all
times showed on operations and the ability displayed in carrying out his
duties, I feel, fully deserve the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.
*
* * * *
DE CHAMPLAIN, WO (now F/O) Joseph Paul Emile
(R113044/J90743) - Netherlands Flying Cross - No.437 Squadron (AFRO gives unit only as
"Overseas") - Awarded 1 January 1946 as per London Gazette of
that date and AFRO 183/46 dated 22 February 1946. Home in legal, Alberta; enlisted in Edmonton,
24 June 1941. Trained at No.2 WS
(graduated 6 November 1942) and No.7 BGS (graduated 7 December 1942). Public Records Office Air 2/9642 has
recommendation.
On the 18th September 1944, Warrant Officer De
Champlain, a wireless operator, participated in a successful glider
operation. Again on the 21st September
he was detailed to deliver supplies to our forces. Whilst approaching the dropping zone the
aircraft sustained damage and it was necessary to go over the target a second
time; the supplies were dropped in the correct zone. One the return flight the aircraft was
attacked by enemy fighters and two of the despatchers were wounded. Warrant Officer de Champlain immediately
rendered first aid. Whilst so doing
Warrant Officer de Champlain was injured and the aircraft was set on fire and
had to be abandoned. Throughout, this
airman displayed high courage and fortitude and succeeded in returning to our
lines.
*
* * * *
DE COCK, Corporal Ferdinand Francois Joseph
(R86288) - Mention in Despatches - No.425 Squadron (No.62 Base in AFRO)
- Award effective 1 January 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and
AFRO 425/45 dated 9 March 1945.
Instrument Repairman. No citation
in AFRO; DHist file 181.009 D.1719 (PAC RG.24 Vol.20606) has recommendation
forwarded 31 July 1944. Home in
Winnipeg; enlisted there 3 January 1941.
Served 22 months in Canada, 22 months overseas.
Enlisting in January 1941, and appointed to
his present trade in July 1942, Corporal De Cock is Instrument Repairer in
charge of "A" Flight of this squadron. He served 20 months in Canada, six months in
North Africa and sixteen months in England.
Throughout his service career, both in this country and in North Africa,
this Non-Commissioned Officer has displayed outstanding ability and persistent
energy in his work. On numerous
occasions his tireless devotion to duty has made possible the release of unserviceable
aircraft for operational duties.
*
* * * *
DE COURCY, S/L Thomas Joseph (J17641) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.443 Squadron (deceased) - Award effective 26 June 1945 as
per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 1291/45 dated 10 August
1945. Born 2 August 1921, Mitchell, Ontario, only son of Thomas and Beatrice de
Courcy (sisters Mary and Colleen born 1927 and 1932 respectively). Educated at St.Anthony Separate School and
Assumption College. Enlisted (R67815) in
Windsor, Ontario, 7 September 1940. Initially
taken on as Wireless Operator (Ground), serving at No.32 SFTS in that capacity,
26 October 1940 to 5 February 1941.
Recommended 8 February 1941 that he be remustered to pilot; posted to
No.2 Manning Depot, Brandon, where he waited until 5 May 1941 (posting to No.2
ITS, Regina). Trained at No.2 ITS,
Regina (graduated 4 June 1941) and No.16 EFTS, Edmonton (graduated 27 July
1941). Inspected 21 October 1941 at
No.10 SFTS, Dauphin; described as "Rough on aerobatics. No outstanding faults in flying but lacks
considerable knowledge of engine controls." Awarded pilot's flying badge,
24 October 1941 and promoted to Sergeant.
Embarked for overseas, 12 November 1941; arrived 23 November 1941. Further trained at No.59 OTU, 18 December
1941 to 30 April 1942. 7 February
1942: seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident (passenger); collision
in blackout. Taken on strength of No.118 Squadron, 30 April 1942. 1 October
1942; promoted to Flight Sergeant with effect from 24 April 1942; 24
October 1942: promoted to Warrant Officer, Second Class; 20 November
1942: Spitfire Vb EH953 with 160 hours 20 minutes on airframe; engine
70769/280997 had 164 hours five minutes and had been installed on airframe 12
May 1942; making practice attacks while
with No.118 Squadron (Bere Regis, Dorset).
The engine was running normally for about half an hour and I had just
finished a practice attack and pulled away to one side when the engine
cut. There was no warning and the R.P.M.
gauge registered Nil. The engine
temperature and pressure remained normal; fuel pressure light remained
off. I knew my position and decided to
try and make Warmwell. I was at 6,000 feet but soon realized I wasn't going to
make it. I tried switching on and off,
closed throttle and pitch levers, rocked aircraft violently fore and aft. I landed with wheels up in a meadow. I did not jettison the range tank and used
flaps. I put a guard on the plane,
telephoned Warmwell and went back to the plane.
No fire resulted. 29
January 1943; slightly injured at Station Coltishall in accident involving
Martinet HP138; taking off to tow a drogue, propeller in course pitch; aircraft
struck a tree, hit ground and burned; 24 April 1943: promoted to Warrant
Officer, First Class. Commissioned
(J17641) 20 May 1943. Taken in strength
of No.421 Squadron, 1 June 1943. 15
June 1943: Assessed by F/L J.B. Shepherd (Flight Commander):
"Exceptionally keen type and very good fighter pilot. One of the mainstays of my flight, and on
occasions led same. Before his posting from this unit he had been recommended
for a commission.". 20 November
1943: promoted to Flying Officer; 8 March 1944: posted to
Grangemouth; 31 March 1944: Assessed by F/L E.L. Gimbel, No.421
Squadron: "An experienced operational pilot just completed a long tour
with this and other squadrons. Done an excellent job but I don't think he has
had enough chance to prove his real worth. He was well liked by this unit and
should go far." 8 May 1944 -
pilot of Master II EM355, with F/O R.A. Miller (RAF) making practice landings
at No.3 FIS, Grangemouth; four landings made and then Miller took
controls. Engine failed at 300 feet;
crash-landed in a field; de Courcy hospitalized ten days; 23 June to 12
September 1944: on strength of No.53 OTU; 23 September 1944: posted
to No.421 Squadron; 8 January 1945: promoted to Flight Lieutenant; 5
April 1945: taken on strength of No.443 Squadron with rank of Squadron
Leader. Killed in automobile accident (driving in heavy rainstorm, struck a
tree), 7 June 1945, near Trelde (20 miles southwest of Hamburg). Credited with the following victories during
his career: 20 June 1942, one FW.190 damaged (No.118 Squadron); 19
August 1942, one Do.217 damaged (No.118 Squadron); 20 December 1943,
one FW.190 destroyed (No.421 Squadron); 27 September 1944, one Bf.109
damaged (No.421 Squadron); 20 December 1944, one Bf.109 destroyed
(No.421 Squadron); 25 April 1945, one Ju.87 damaged and one unidentified
enemy aircraft damaged (both on ground with No.443 Squadron); 3 May 1945,
one Ju.88 destroyed (shared with another pilot, No.443 Squadron).
Squadron Leader De Courcy has participated in
a very large number of varied sorties.
He has invariably displayed a high degree of skill and courage and
throughout his devotion to duty had been unfailing. In April 1945, this officer led the squadron
in an operation against the airfields at Schwerin and Neudstadt where numerous
aircraft and much mechanical transport were most effectively attacked. By his skilful leadership Squadron Leader De
Courcy has contributed materially to the success achieved. In air fighting this officer has been
responsible for the destruction of three enemy aircraft.
*
* * * *
DE GRACE, F/L Robert Forrest (J23138) - Mention
in Despatches - No.160 Squadron - Award effective 6 January 1945 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 132/45 dated 26 January 1945. Trained at No.4 ITS, No.6 AOS and No.7
BGS. America, home in Seattle,
Washington. Enlisted in Vancouver, 30
January 1942. Trained at No.4 ITS
(graduated 3 July 1942), No.6 AOS (graduated 12 September 1942), No.1 CNS (graduated
4 December 1942) and No.7 BGS (graduated 22 January 1943).
This officer's kill, courage and devotion to
duty as a navigator have contributed much to the success achieved by the
squadron. As navigation leader he has
done exceptionally good work and has set a splendid example of efficiency both
in the air and on the ground. His
repeated development of new ideas, modifications and training schemes have been
of exceptional value in bringing the navigation in his squadron to its present
high standard.
*
* * * *
DE LA HAYE, S/L Alphonse Leopold (J2938) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.404 Squadron - Award effective 28 April 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 5 May 1944 and AFRO 1186/44 dated 2 June 1944. Born 1916 at Ashford, Kent. Home in Vancouver or Hollyburn, British
Columbia; enlisted in Vancouver, 13 April 1940.
Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 23 May 1940), Vancouver Aero Club
(graduated 22 July 1940) and No.1 SFTS (graduated 18 September 1940). Commissioned 1940.
An outstanding flight commander, this officer
has displayed great administrative ability and has set a splendid example of
fearlessness and devotion to duty. He has taken part in many operational
sorties and destroyed one enemy aircraft.
In November 1943, while on the return flight following an attack on
enemy shipping, an aircraft in his formation was forced to alight on to the
sea. Squadron Leader De La Haye circled
the dinghy for an hour until an air/sea rescue launch arrived. Later in the same month this officer was on
patrol over the Norwegian coast when about 200 miles from base he was overcome
by alcohol fumes from a leaking anti-icer.
On the windscreen he gave his navigator instructions to assist him which
enabled him to reserve his strength and fly the aircraft safely back to base.
*
* * * *
DE LA PAULLE, F/L Jacques Andre Hubert (J8964)
- Distinguished Flying Cross - No.422 Squadron - Award effective 5 April
1944 as per London Gazette dated 14 April 1944 and AFRO 1020/44 dated 12
May 1944. Born in New York City,
September 1921. Home in Washington,
D.C. Educated in France, returned there
in 1940 to serve with United States Ambulance Corps (awarded Croix de Guerre). Joined RCAF in Montreal, 17 April 1941. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 27 June 1941),
No.19 EFTS (graduated 1 September 1941) and No.12 SFTS (graduated 21 November
1941). Further trained at Charlottetown
and Debert; went overseas in mid-1942, joining No.423 Squadron. Forced down in
Bay of Biscay, 3 September 1943 following engine trouble; back in UK five days
later. To an RAF Coastal OTU, 1944. Repatriated to Canada in December 1944,
working with No.45 Group. Left RCAF in
September 1945 and moved to Washington, D.C.
Flight Lieutenant De La Paulle has completed a
tour of operational duty throughout which he has displayed fine leadership,
great courage and fortitude. On many
occasions he has completed his mission in very adverse weather. On one occasion through engine failure this
officer was forced to bring his aircraft down to the sea. He swam to a punctured dinghy, which later he
repaired. During the following three and
one-half days, before being rescued, his cheerfulness and confidence did much
to sustain the high morale maintained by his crew in the dinghies.
*
* * * *
DE LALLA, F/O John Peter (J85739) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.427 Squadron - Award effective 5 July 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 17 July 1945 and AFRO 1558/45 dated 5 October 1945. Born 1922 in Vancouver; home there
(draughtsman); enlisted there 13 August 1941.
Trained at No.2 WS (graduated 1 February 1942) and No.8 BGS (graduated
12 October 1942). Commissioned
1944. 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.1729 (PAC RG.24 Vol.20607) has recommendation dated 19 March
1945 when he had flown 37 sorties (246 hours 50 minutes).
This wireless operator has completed one tour
of operations and twelve sorties on his second tour. During his first tour and the first seven
trips of his second tour he flew as a wireless operator; the additional sorties
have been done as a gunner.
His work in the air both as a gunner and a
wireless operator has been outstanding and at all times he has shown a great
determination to successfully complete the task he has been detailed to
do. His cheerful confidence and devotion
to duty have been an inspiration not only to his crew but to all who come in
contact with him.
*
* * * *
DE MARCO, Corporal Albert (R145602) - Air
Force Medal - No.168 Squadron - Award effective 5 May 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1133/44 dated 26 May 1944. Home in Lakeview, Ontario; enlisted Hamilton,
6 December 1941. Incident was on 23
January 1944; see also F/O H.B. Hillcoat, P/O E.M. Rosenbaum and F/O C.A.
Dickson (all awarded AFC).
This NCO was crewman of a Fortress which,
while on a routine flight recently from Great Britain to Gibraltar, had a
violent collision with an unidentified aircraft. From the first moment of the collision, this
airman displayed exceptional calmness and initiative under the most trying
conditions. He successfully assisted the
second pilot in preparing the aircraft for ditching and jettisoning the load,
working himself to the point of exhaustion.
This feat was accomplished in approximately four minutes - a remarkable
one in view of the conditions in which the aircraft was at the time. Corporal De Marco's initiative in the
performance of his duties in a true airman-like manner should provide a shining
example to all airmen.
*
* * * *
DE MARCO, FS Frank Vincent (R87600) - Distinguished
Flying Medal - No.158 Squadron - Award effective 4 October 1943 as per London
Gazette dated 15 October 1943 and
AFRO 2610/43 dated 17 December 1943.
Born 1922 in Clyde, Alberta. Home
in New Westminster; enlisted in Vancouver, 30 December 1940. Trained at No.7 BGS (graduated 15 September
1941) and No.2 WS (graduated 17 August 1941).
Flight Sergeant De Marco has completed a tour
of operational duty during which he has attacked many of the enemy's most vital
targets in Germany. Regardless of any
opposition he has repeatedly pressed home his attacks and accurately placed his
bombs, bringing back several excellent photographs. At all times his calm courage and devotion to
duty have been worthy of the highest praise.
*
* * * *
DE MARCO, F/O Nicholas (J27693) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.76 Squadron - Award effective 8 September 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 21 September 1945 and AFRO 1704/45 dated 9 November
1945. Born 1923 in Toronto; home there;
enlisted there 16 December 1941. Trained
at No.3 ITS (graduated 14 August 1942), No.7 BGS (graduated 15 May 1943) and
No.1 AOS (graduated 25 June 1943).
Commissioned June 1943. 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 2/8749 has recommendation dated 15 April 1945 when he had flown 37
sorties (194 hours 30 minutes), 6 June 1944 to 2 March 1945.
6 June 44 St.Lo
(5.40) 6 Oct 44 Scholven (4.40)
7 June 44 Juvisy
(4.50) 23 Oct 44 Essen (5.20)
12 Jun 44 Amiens
(5.00) 28 Oct 44 Cologne (4.45)
15 Jun 44 Fouillard
(5.25) 31 Oct 44 Cologne (5.10)
20 Jul 44 Bottrop
(4.20) 4 Nov 44 Bochum (5.05)
23 Jul 44 Kiel
(5.15) 30 Nov
44 Duisburg (5.45)
28 Jul 44 Foret
de Nieppe 5 Dec 44 Soest (6.20)
(3.30) 6
Dec 44 Osnabruck (5.45)
2 Aug 44 Foret
de Nieppe 20 Dec 44 Cologne (5.50)
(3.20) 26
Dec 44 St.Vith (5.40)
3 Aug 44 Bois
de Casson 29 Dec 44 Koblenz (5.45)
(4.05) 1
Jan 45 Dortmund (5.35)
10 Aug 44 Dijon
(6.30) 6 Jan 45 Hannau (6.50)
12 Aug 44 Russelsheim
(5.30) 28 Jan 45 Stuttgart (7.35)
15 Aug 44 Tir
le Mont (3.45) 13 Feb 45 Bohlem (8.25)
18 Aug 44 Sterkrade
(4.30) 17 Feb 45 Wesel (5.15)
1 Sept 44 La
Pouchante (3.30) 21 Feb 45 Worms (7.10)
10 Sep 44 Le
Havre (3.30) 23 Feb 45 Essen (5.20)
13 Sep 44 Gelsenkirchen
(4.20) 27 Feb 45 Mainz (6.10)
17 Sep 44 Boulogne
(3.30) 2 Mar 45 Cologne (5.35)
This Bomb Aimer has participated in very many
operational sorties both by day and by night over heavily defended targets in
Germany and occupied Europe. Throughout
he has shown very great determination to drop his bombs squarely on the target.
His courage, skill and efficiency was a fine
example to his brother officers and a great asset to his crew. It is considered that his outstanding conduct
merits the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.
*
* * * *
DE MILLE, F/L Alfred Hartwell (J36365) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.576 Squadron - Award effective 26 June 1945 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1291/45 dated 10 August 1945. Born 1918 in Orillia. Home in Toronto (ex-Toronto Scottish);
enlisted there 16 June 1942. Trained at
No.6 ITS (graduated 16 April 1943), No.9 EFTS (graduated 4 June 1943) and No.2
SFTS (graduated 1 October 1943.
Commissioned 1943.
One night in March 1945, this officer was
pilot and captain in an aircraft detailed to attack Nuremburg. During the operation the aircraft was badly
hit when attacked by an enemy fighter. A
good part of the port aileron was shot away and the aircraft went into a steep
dive. Flight Lieutenant De Mille
succeeded in levelling out after much height had been lost. Two petrol tanks had been pierced and much
petrol was lost. Nevertheless, Flight
Lieutenant De Mille was able to conserve some of his remaining petrol by
skilful use of the engines and flew the damaged aircraft to base. This officer has completed very many sorties
and has invariably displayed a high degree of courage and determination.
*
* * * *
DE NEVERS, F/O Roy Olaf (J23952) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.192 Squadron - Award effective 6 January 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 16 January 1945 and AFRO 508/45 dated 23 March 1945. Born
1922, Strasbourg, Saskatchewan. Home in
Vandina, Saskatchewan (farmer); enlisted in Regina, 12 November 1941. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 23 May 1942)
and No.7 AOS (graduated 9 February 1943).
Commissioned 1943.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 has recommendation
dated 18 October 1944 when he had flown 28 sorties (126 hours); all trios
described as "Special Duties".
*
denotes daylight sortie
15 Mar 44 Stuttgart
(7.35) 7 June 44 Paris (3.30)
19 Mar 44 Bay
of Biscay (7.15) 9 June
44 Flers (3.55)
23 Mar 44 Paris
(4.30) 12
June 44 Gelsenkirchen (3.00)
24 Mar 44 Berlin
(6.35) 23
June 44 Limoges (6.40)
30 Mar 44 Nuremburg
(7.10) 27 June 44 Paris (3.55)
11 Apr 44 Aachen
(3.00) 4 July
44 Paris (3.10)
18 Apr 44 North
coast of 7
July 44 Paris/Vaires (4.20)
France (5.15) 18
July 44 Scholven/Ruhr (2.50)
9 May 44 Paris
(4.05) 24
July 44 Over Flakee (2.10)
12 May 44 Hasselt
(2.35) 8 Aug
44 North Sea Patrol (3.30)*
18 May 44 North
coast of 13
Aug 44 Off Dutch coast near
France (5.20) Flushing
(1.35)
22 May 44 Dortmund
(3.40) 25 Aug 44 Russelsheim (8.00)
24 May 44 Aachen
(2.40) 3 Sept
44 North Sea Patrol (4.15)*
31 May 44 Saumur
(5.10) 26 Sept
44 Karlsruhe (5.55)
2 June 44 Trappes
(4.10) 19 Oct 44 Stuttgart (5.55)
This officer has nearly completed his first
tour of operations on heavy bombers. He is a navigator of exceptional ability,
a factor which has contributed very largely to the success of the Special Duty
sorties carried out by his crew. These sorties necessitate a very high standard
of navigation and log keeping in order that full results may be got from the
information obtained by the Special Operator.
He always shows outstanding coolness and
courage during the most arduous and perilous sorties. He carried on his work
with complete disregard of danger and his courage and example has been an
inspiration to the rest of the squadron.
*
* * * *
DE NIVERVILLE, A/V/M Joseph Lionel Alphege
Albert (C50) - Commended for Valuable Services - AFHQ - Award effective
9 December 1944 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 239/45 dated
9 February 1945. Born in Montreal, 31
August 1897; educated in Ottawa. Pilot
in RFC/RAF, 1917-1919. Gazetted as P/O
in CAF Reserve, 18 February 1920.
Employed by Air Board and DND to 31 March 1924. Appointed to Permanent
RCAF, 1 April 1924. Flying instructor at
Camp Borden to September 1927, Staff Officer Training at AFHQ to 30 April 1931
(qualified as Interpreter and passed Staff College Entrance Examination,
January 1931). Station Vancouver (instructor on sea planes and flying boats), 1
May 1931 to March 1932. Station
Rockcliffe, 1932-33 (active on Belle Isle mail flights of 1932). RAF Staff College, Andover, 1933. AFHQ, January 1934 to February 1936. Air Staff Officer for Military District No.4
(Montreal) February 1936 to February 1939.
Director of Organization, AFHQ, February 1939 to 1 May 1940. Director of Air Force Manning, 1 May 1940 to
8 August 1941. CO of No.2 SFTS, 9 August
to 7 September 1941. AOC No.3 Training
Command, Montreal, 20 October 1941 to 22 November 1943. Air Member for Training, Air Force
Headquarters.
DE NIVERVILLE, A/V/M Joseph Lionel Elphege
Albert (C50) - Commander, Order of the Bath - AFHQ (Air Member for
Training) - Award effective 1 January 1945 as per London Gazette of that
date, Canada Gazette dated 6 January 1945 and AFRO 89/45 dated 19
January 1945.
Air Vice-Marshal de Niverville has rendered
outstanding and devoted service to the Royal Canadian Air Force. Since the outbreak of war he has successfully
held the appointments of Director of Manning, Commanding Officer of a station,
Air Officer Commanding a Training Command, and Air Member for Training on the
Air Council. He has served with
distinctive ability and industry in all of these positions. His knowledge and experience, combined with
judicious leadership, have been of great value to the British Commonwealth Air
Training Plan. He has set an high
standard in devotion to duty.
DE NIVERVILLE, A/V/M Joseph Lionel Elphege
Albert, CB (C50) - AFHQ - Commander Legion of Merit (United States) -
with effect from 25 July 1946 as per Canada Gazette dated 10 August 1946
and AFRO 819/46 dated 23 August 1946.
Presented 25 July 1946 by U.S. Consul General in Montreal. Colonel R.E. Williamson, Military Attache, to
AFHQ, 31 May 1946, gives citation:
Air Vice Marshal Albert de Niverville, Royal
Canadian Air Force, performed exceptionally meritorious service as
representative on the Combined Committee on Air Training in North America from
November 1943 to August 1945. As a member
of this committee he made outstanding contributions toward the improvement and
standardization of air training methods by the Royal Air Force, Royal Canadian
Air Force, and the United States Services.
Air Vice Marshal de Niverville's wholehearted cooperation and personal
vigour in the discharge of these duties further increased the effectiveness of
the common effort of these allied nations.
DE NIVERVILLE, A/V/M Joseph Lionel Elphege
Albert (C50) - 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.
DE NIVERVILLE, A/V/M Joseph Lionel Elphege
Albert, CB (C50) - Officer of the Legion of Honour (France) - AFRO
485/47 dated 12 September 1947.
*
* * * *
DE PAPE, Sergeant (now P/O) Raymond Alphonse
George (R152875/J19937) - Mention in Despatches - Overseas - Award
effective 8 June 1944 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO
1729/44 dated 11 August 1944. Born 18
November 1920; home in Swan Lake, Manitoba (farmer); enlisted Winnipeg. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 18 July 1942),
No.19 EFTS (graduated 9 October 1942) and No.10 SFTS (graduated 19 February
1943). Posted overseas immediately,
training at Long Marston OTU and No.1659 Heavy Conversion Unit before posting
to No.431 Squadron on 30 September 1943.
No citation in AFRO. DHist file
181.009 D.5526 (RG.24 Vol.20667) has recommendation for a DFM dated 21 January
1944. Citation reads only that "In
air operations, this NCO displayed courage, fortitude and determination of the
highest order." The form, however,
says he had flown only one sortie, and that he had bailed out over enemy
territory - the obvious reason for his award being a successful evasion.
In January 1997 the Royal Air Forces Escaping
Society (Canadian Branch) presented to the National Aviation Museum a
"dossier" (actually more like an album) with extended
autobiographical notes on members (catalogued in the museum as D.805 C3 L96
1995 NMM). This included much
information on him. The following is
part of his entry:
3 October 1943, shortly after bombing ball
bearing works in Kassel, our starboard engines were set on fire by ack-ack; we
were subsequently strafed from below by a night fighter. Warrant Officer Main, Flight Sergeant Crebbin
and Sergeant Wardrope were killed in the attack. Warrant Officer Reynoldson, Warrant Officer
Cudmore, Sergeant Storey and Sergeant Peters were all made prisoners of war. I
landed in an open field near German-Belgium border and was on my own for seven
days, living off fruit and vegetables from gardens. I made contact with lone
farmers on three different occasions and each time was refused help. Finally I was sheltered in the village of Grune
by the Van der Haegen/Layon families for six days. Local resistance members
procured false ID and I moved to Nassogne where I was sheltered in Edmond
Leroy's home for five days. I then hid
in Ardennes forest for several days, then escorted between Grune and Brussels
on foot, bicycle, motorcycle, tram and train.
In Brussels, housed with Henri and Maria Maca, Raymond and Solange
Vignoble and met Michou, Mme Camousel, Jacqueline Vantuykom, and Mimoir. Crossing into France was made in back seat of
a French MD's car, along with Monique Thome and a courier. From Paris travelled by train to south of
France with Reginald Cornelius, and RAF pilot, and Jan, a young Dutchman. At Dax we were provided with bicycles and
escorted to the Pyrennes. Reginald and I
were guided by 17-year old Janine DeGreef (daighter of Tante Go). Taken across the Pyrennes by Basque guides
and the Bidassoa River by the indomitable Florentino. Spent about ten days inIrun as guests of the
Spaniah Air Force before travelling to Madrid and Gibraltar by train. Arraved back in UK 22 December 1943.
On my return to Canada, was posted to 124
Ferry Squadron in St.Hubert and later to 170 Ferry Squadron, Winnipeg, and
finally to 12 Communications Squadron in Rockcliffe. I had flown 22 types of aircraft before taking
my discharge 25 November 1945 in Winnipeg.
*
* * * *
DE PELHAM, F/O William Charles Lovell (J14650)
- Distinguished Flying Cross - No.524 Squadron - Award effective 26
October 1944 as per London Gazette dated 7 November and AFRO 1/45 dated
5 January 1945. Born in Sussex,
England. Home in Hamilton, Ontario;
enlisted there 18 September 1941.
Trained at No.3 ITS (graduated 13 March 1942), No.1 AOS (graduated 22
June 1942), No.9 BGS (graduated 1 August 1942) and No.1 ANS (graduated 21
September 1942). Commissioned 1942.
Flying Officer De Pelham has maintained a high
standard of navigational skill during many attacks on enemy shipping. His ability has contributed materially to the
success achieved by his crew. On
February 14, 1944, a formation of E-boats were sighted and shadowed for five
hours and were subsequently brought to action by our naval forces. On March 30, 1944, three hours of brilliant
shadowing of seven E-boats operating against our convoy route caused the enemy
to abandon their attempt and withdraw.
This officer's fine navigation and concise reports largely contributed
to the success of the action. On three
other occasions this officer, when acting as bomb aimer, inflicted much damage
on enemy shipping.
*
* * * *
DE PRET-ROOSE, S/L Michel (C3002) - Air
Force Cross - No.113 Wing, Transport Command (AFRO gives unit only as
"Overseas") - Award effective 24 March 1944 as per London Gazette
dated 31 March 1944 and AFRO 921/44 dated 28 April 1944. Home in Nassau, Bahamas; enlisted in Ottawa,
4 November 1941. DHist card says he had
an MM - possibly a Belgian decoration; award sent to him in Belgium for
presentation on 15 December 1948. No citation
other than "In recognition of distinguished service with the Royal Air Force." AFHQ file 387-50, letter dated 10 October
1952 is mentioned on card and may have details.
Public Records Office Air 2/9616 gives unit and citation; states that he
had flown 3,463 hours, of which 238 were in six months previous to being
recommended, 14 January 1944. Also
described as Chief Flying Instructor for No.113 Wing, Nassau.
This officer is of an extremely good type with
fine qualities of leadership. He has
been employed on instructional duties since April 1942 and has completed about
1,000 hours flying on this work.
*
* * * *
DE ROSENROLL, F/O James Anthony (J14804) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.428 Squadron - Award effective 5 August 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 18 August 1944 and AFRO 2101/44 dated 29 September
1944. Born 1922 in Edmonton; home in
Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Enlisted in
Regina, 22 September 1941. Trained at No.2 ITS, No.6 EFTS (graduated 11 May
1942) and No.7 AOS (graduated 9 October 1942).
Commissioned 1942. No citation
other than "completed...many successful operations against the enemy in
which [he has] displayed high skill, fortitude and devotion to duty." Public Records Office Air 2/9632 has
recommendation dated 10 May 1944 when he had flown 25 1/3 sorties (169 hours 50
minutes), 16 May 1943 to 7 May 1944.
*
denotes trip counted as 1/3 sortie
16 May 43 GARDENING,
Frisians 21 Jan 44 Magdeburg (7.15)
(3.25) 4
Feb 44 GARDENING, La
25 May 43 Dusseldorf
(5.15) Rochelle
(8.05)
29 May 43 Wuppertal
(6.05) 21 Feb 44 GARDENING, La
21 Jun 43 Krefeld
(4.45) Rochelle
(7.00)
22 Jun 43 Mulheim
(4.50) 2 Mar
44 Meulan (6.05)*
26 Jun 43 GARDENING,
Brest 11 Mar 44 GARDENING, Lorient
(6.00) (7.30)
3 July 43 Cologne
(2.45), DNCO 16 Mar 44 Amiens (5.15)*
27 Jul 43 Hamburg
(5.30) 22 Mar
44 GARDENING, Kiel
29 Jul 43 Hamburg
(6.05) (7.20),
Pathfinder
15 Sep 43 Montlucon
(7.00) 26 Mar 44 Courtrai (5.00)*
16 Sep 43 Modane
(6.00) 30 Mar
44 GARDENING, Heligoland
22 Sep 43 Hanover
(5.40) (4.35),
Pathfinder
3 Oct 43 Kassel
(6.15) 12
Apr 44 GARDENING, Heligoland
8 Oct 43 Hanover
(5.10) (4.35),
Pathfinder
19 Nov 43 Leverkusen
(3.55) 29 Apr 44 GARDENING, Morlaix
25 Nov 43 Frankfurt
(8.20) (5.10)*
29 Dec 43 Berlin
(7.50) 7
May 44 GARDENING, Frisians
(3.55)
Flying Officer DeRosenroll has completed very
many sorties as navigator. He has
participated in attacks on most of the main German targets including
Berlin. His navigation has at all times
been of the highest order and his skill has been instrumental in the safe return of his aircraft to base.
His coolness and efficiency under the most
trying circumstances has always inspired the rest of the crew with the utmost
confidence and enabled them to successfully complete each sortie in which he
has partaken.
*
* * * *
DE ROSIER, F/O Leo Joseph (J21005) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.107 Squadron - Award effective 6 February 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 13 February 1945 and AFRO 508/45 dated 23 March 1945. American in the RCAF; born in Aubin, Maine, 1916;
home in San Antonio, Florida; enlisted Windsor, Ontario, 26 September
1941. Trained at No.6 ITS (graduated 24
April 1942), No.4 EFTS (graduated 177 July 1942) and No.13 SFTS (graduated 20
November 1942). Commissioned 1942.
This officer has completed a tour of
operational flying. Throughout he has
shown the greatest keenness to operate against the enemy. He has participated in many missions
including two successful daylight attacks against Arnhem and
Chalons-sur-Soane. His determination,
courage and devotion to duty have been most commendable.
NOTE: Public Records Office Air 2/9048 has
recommendation dated 3 December 1944 when he had flown 48 sorties (137 hours 50
minutes); the discrepancy with the respect to number of daylight trips is
puzzling:
This officer has recently completed his first
tour of operational flying, carrying out a total of 48 sorties including three
daylight sorties.
He has always shown the greatest keenness to
operate and has done his utmost to find something to attack during his sorties
at night, often despite bad weather and ground opposition. On one occasion at
night he attacked a flying bomb over enemy territory which exploded causing his
aircraft to be violently shaken. On another occasion he successfully bombed and
cannoned a train causing a large amount of smoke to come from the train.
He has taken part in two successful daylight
sorties, that on the barracks at Arnhem on the 17th September 1944 and also the
attack on the trains near Chalons-sur-Soane on the 25th August 1944.
Flying Officer DeRosier possesses
determination and a very good offensive spirit. I recommend him for the award
of the Distinguished Flying Cross.
*
* * * *
DE SILVA, FS Desmond Michael (R95750) - Distinguished
Flying Medal - No.218 Squadron - Award effective 13 May 1943 as per London
Gazette dated 18 May 1943 and AFRO 1078/43 dated 11 June 1943. Born 25 August 1920 in New Amsterdam, British
Guiana; home in Georgetown, British Guiana.
Elevator operator in New York prior to joining RCAF; enlisted in Ottawa,
18 March 1941. Trained at No.3 ITS,
Victoriaville, Quebec (graduated 15 July 1941), No.12 EFTS, Goderich, Ontario
(ceased training 4 August 1941; poor handling of aircraft on ground, forgetful
of cockpit checks, swerving on takeoff, skidding on turns, and terrible
landings; washed out after ten hours on Fleet Finches; even his ground school
performance was terrible), and No.6 BGS, Mountain View, Ontario (graduated 29
September 1941). Posted to "Y"
Depot, Halifax, 1 October 1941; to RAF Trainees Pool, 22 October 1941; taken on
strength of No.3 Personnel Reception Centre, 4 November 1941; posted to RAF
Station Manby, (possibly to attend No.1 AAS), date uncertain; to No.22 OTU, 29
April 1942; to No.214 Squadron, 21 July 1942; posted to No.218 Squadron, 14
September 1942; promoted Flight Sergeant with effect from 1 September 1942; to
No.218 Squadron, 7 October 1942.
Admitted to RAF General Hospital, Ely (Littleport Annex) on 19 February
1943 - "Was rear gunner in a Stirling aircraft on operational flight over
enemy territory when he was struck in the right thumb by flak." Promoted WO2 with effect from 1 May 1943.
returned to No.218 Squadron, 27 July 1943.
Killed in action, 24 August 1943 (Stirling EH925, No.218 Squadron).
Flight Sergeant De Silva is an exceptionally
skilful and courageous air gunner. He
has been engaged on operational duties since May 1942, and took part in the
"1,000 bomber raid" on the Ruhr and Cologne. On one occasion, while on mine-laying
operations in the Baltic, the aircraft in which Flight Sergeant De Silva was
flying as rear gunner was heavily engaged by anti-aircraft fire and sustained
severe damage. By his very accurate
gunnery, this airman was instrumental in preventing further damage to his aircraft. One more than one occasion Flight Sergeant De
Silva has attacked and set on fire locomotives on enemy territory and once,
while on a sortie against Wilhelmshaven, drove off an enemy fighter, though
wounded in the hand. He is a most
efficient gunner who can be relied upon to complete his duties effectively.
NOTE: Public Records Office Air 2/8951 has
recommendation dated 21 March 1943 when he had flown 21 sorties (128 hours ten
minutes). Text only slightly more detailed but combined with sortie list his
career is fleshed out slightly.
30 May 42 Cologne
(5.30) 20 Nov 42 Turin (8.00)
1 June 42 Essen
(4.50) 22 Nov 42 Stuttgart (8.20)
25 June 42 Bremen
(6.40) 28 Nov 42 Turin (6.10)
31 July 42 Dusseldorf
(4.00) 29 Nov 42 Turin (8.30)
5 Aug 42 Frisians
(3.55) 17 Dec 42 Fallersleben (6.00)
11 Oct 42 Baltic
(8.00) 27 Jan 43 Baltic (6.45)
17 Oct 42 Baltic
(7.15) 13 Feb 43 Lorient (5.40)
3 Nov 42 Lingen
(3.55) 14 Feb 43 Cologne (4.00)
9 Nov 42 Toulouse
(7.30) 16 Feb 43 Lorient (5.00)
10 Nov 43 Frisians
(4.00) 19 Feb 43 Wilhelmshaven (4.45)
16 Nov 42 Bayonne
(9.25)
Flight Sergeant De Silva is an Air Gunner of
No.218 Squadron who has been engaged on operational duties since May 1942. He
took part in the 1,000 bomber raids on Cologne and Essen in May and June of
last year.
In October 1942, while on a Gardening sorties
to the Baltic, the aircraft of which he was acting as rear gunner was heavily
engaged by flak ships and sustained severe damage. Flight Sergeant De Silva,
but his very accurate gunning, helped considerably to distract that attention
of the ship's gunners, thereby lessening the damage to the aircraft.
In November 1942, while returning from an
operational sortie to Stuttgart, he was instrumental in shooting up and setting
on fire several locomotives. He also
took part in the daylight raid on Lingen in November 1942.
In February 1943, at Wilhelmshaven, he was
wounded in the hand in a running encounter with an my fighter but managed, by
superior gunning, to stave him off, when he was eventually lost.
He is a most efficient gunner and is noted for
his coolness, eagerness and clear thinking. He is very strong recommended for
the award of the Distinguished Flying Medal.
INDUCTION AND TRAINING: When interviewed on 17 March 1941 the Interviewing
Officer wrote of him, "Nice well-cut lad. Well mannered - good personality
- sound material for development. Should prove up well for Air Crew".
Training at No.3 ITS (Course 28) began on 9
June 1941 and concluded 15 July 1941. He
graduated 69th in a class of 143 with marks as follows: Mathematics - 64
percent; Armament (R and O), 65 percent; Signals, 86 percent; Hygiene and
Sanitation - 37 points out of 40; Drill - 74 percent; Law and Discipline - 51
points out of 60. Assessed by W/C H.J.
Burden as follows: "Fine appearance - Youthful - Very humorous - Alert 0
Keen - Easy going - Individualist - Splendid personality - Good background -
Enthusiastic - Intelligent - Above average, but not too serious".
His personality was clearly his undoing at
EFTS, where he was deemed lazy (see main biographical note). This may have shaken him up, given his
subsequent career.
Training at No.6 BGS (Course 15) began 1
September 1941 and concluded 29 September 1941.
He spent ten hours 40 minutes in Fairey Battle aircraft on training plus
three hours 35 minutes as a passenger (all by day). Air Gunnery involved firing 750 rounds on the
ground, 400 rounds air to ground and 1,425 rounds air to air. He was assessed at 12.5 percent on Beam Test,
7.5 percent on Beam Relative Speed Test and 33 percent in Under Tail Test. He scored 84 percent of Written Examination,
67 percent on Practical and Oral Examination, and 198 points out of a possible
250 on Ability as Firer. He graduated
fourth in a class of 65. The Chief
Instructor wrote, "He showed marked ability as a firer and will be a
satisfactory Air Gunner".
Nevertheless, he was not recommended for a commission.
On 18 October 1949 one W.A. Sparks wrote to
the Secretary of the Imperial War Graves Commission respecting the crew of
EH925, presumed dead as of 24 August 1943.
The letter read, in part:
German documents state that the aircraft
crashed at about 0130 hours on 24th August 1943, about five kms south of
Zossen, which is in the Russian Zone of Occupation. No burial details were given.
This area has been searched by the Missing
Research Organization without any trace of the crew, and there seems little
hope of permission being grated by the Soviet Authorities for Search Officers
to conduct any further investigations.
The names of these airmen will therefore be
recorded on the Memorial to the Missing in accordance with the decision
contained in your letter dated 26th August 1949.
*
* * * *
DE SOLLA, F/L Henri (J14707) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.425 Squadron - Award effective 11 April 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 21 April 1944 and AFRO 1075/44 dated 19 May 1944. American in
the RCAF; born 1912; home in Forrest
Hills, New York; enlisted Montreal, 17 January 1941. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 28 February
1942), No.2 EFTS (graduated 23 May 1942) and No.11 SFTS (graduated 9 October
1942). Commissioned 1942. No citation other than
"...completed...many successful operations against the enemy in which [he
has] displayed high skill, fortitude and devotion to duty." Recommendation dated 16 December 1943 found in
DHist file 181.009 D.1730 (PAC RG.24 Vol.20607) when he had flown 37 sorties
(222 hours 55 minutes).
This officer has now completed a tour of
operations in a most satisfactory manner.
He is a skilled and reliable pilot who has captained his aircraft and
achieved splendid results on many occasions.
He has taken part in a variety of targets and has frequently secured
excellent photographic evidence of accurate bombing. Throughout these operations he has at all
times displayed a high degree of courage and initiative. This officer's conduct and devotion to duty,
both in the air and on the ground, has set a fine example and is worthy of high
praise.
DE SOLLA, F/L Henri, DFC (J14707) - Mention
in Despatches Overseas - Award effective 14 June 1945 as per London Gazette
of that date and AFRO 1600/45 dated 12 October 1945.
*
* * * *
DE ZORZI, F/O Santy Joseph (J16690) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.408 Squadron - Award effective 3 November 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1/45 dated 5 January 1945. Born 1913 in
Italy; home in Toronto; enlisted in Hamilton, 16 October 1940. Trained at No.1
AOS (graduated 25 June 1941) and No.1 BGS (graduated 22 August 1941). Commissioned 1943.
As navigator, this officer has completed
numerous sorties including such targets as Mannheim, Cologne and Essen. His ability has been outstanding and
throughout he has displayed great keenness and zeal. He has played a worthy part in the successes
obtained.
*
* * * *
DEACON, F/L Paul Septimus (J25363) - Mention
in Despatches - Overseas - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 155/46 dated 15 February 1946. Home in Toronto; enlisted there 14 July 1942.
Trained at No.6 ITS (graduated 11 September 1942, No.20 EFTS (graduated 4
December 1942) and No.2 SFTS (graduated 16 April 1943). Died in Toronto, 23 March 1996, age 73. Obituary notice stated he had been editor and
publisher of The Financial Post and a Director of McLean-Hunter,
President of the National Ballet of Canada, and Chairman of the Michener Awards
Foundation.
*
* * * *
DEACON, F/L William Saunby (C7373) - Mention
in Despatches - Middleton St.George - Award effective 1 January 1945 as per
London Gazette of that date and AFRO 337/45 dated 23 February 1945. American in the RCAF; home in Los Angeles,
California; enlisted in Toronto, 29 August 1941. DHist file 181.009 D.4364 (RG.24 Vol.20648)
has recommendation sent to CO, No.64 Base, 17 July 1944.
This officer has shown untiring efforts and is
a great asset to the Servicing Wing. His
spirit and keenness are an excellent example to all those under him. He works long hours and under difficult
conditions without complaint and cheerfully does all that is required of him
and more. He is competent and
dependable.
*
* * * *
DEALEY, WO1 Frederick Henry William (R87881) -
Air Force Cross - WAC Communications Flight - Award effective 23
February 1946 as per London Gazette dated 5 February 1946 and AFRO
280/46 dated 15 March 1946. Enlisted in Vancouver, 25 January 1945. Home in Victoria, British Columbia; enlisted
in Vancouver, 25 January 1941. Trained
at No.2 WS (graduated 17 August 1941) and No.5 BGS (graduated 15 September
1941). As of recommendation he had flown
1,485 hours, 200 in previous six months, and had flown 60 operational hours (12
sorties).
This warrant officer, during his tour of duty
as a wireless operator with 166 Squadron and the Communications Flight, has
rendered valuable and meritorious service.
The keen interest and outstanding ability he has displayed in the
performance of his duty is worthy of high praise and have set a fine example to
all with whom he has been associated.
*
* * * *
DEAN, WO Cyril Armstrong (R108725) - Mention
in Despatches - No.46 Squadron (deceased) - Award effective 1 January 1945
as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 721/45 dated 27 April
1945. Home in Toronto; enlisted there 11
June 1941. Trained at No.4 BGS
(graduated 28 September 1942).
*
* * * *
DEAN, F/L Thomas Hancel (J13104) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.184 Squadron - Award effective 13 January 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 23 January 1945 and AFRO 471/45 dated 16 March 1945. American
in the RCAF. Born in 1915 in Georgia,
home in Vero Beach, Florida; enlisted in RCAF, Windsor, 9 September 1941. Trained at No.5 ITS (graduated 17 January
1942), No.13 EFTS (graduated 27 March 1942), and No.2 SFTS (graduated 31 July
1942). Commissioned July 1942.
This officer has taken part in a very large
number of fighter sorties, having been continually on operations since before
the invasion of Normandy. He is a brave
and resolute pilot who has destroyed and damaged many enemy tanks, transports
and barges. Flight Lieutenant Dean has
frequently encountered heavy enemy opposition in the course of his sorties but
this has never deterred him from the effective completion of his allotted
tasks.
NOTE: Public Records Office Air 2/9043 has
recommendation dated 6 November 1944 when he had flown 106 sorties (105
operational hours); text had more statistical details:
This officer had completed a total of 105
operational hours involving 106 sorties, often in the face of considerable
anti-aircraft fire. On Hurricanes his attacks include ten "No Ball"
targets, five rocket projectile and two dive bombing missions. On Typhoons:-
five dive bombing missions, one fighter escort and 83 rocket projectile
attacks. He has flown continuously since before D Day, and has personally destroyed
many, and shared in the destruction of many more, tanks, transports and barges.
He is a brave and resolute fighter and has set a fine example to all.
*
* * * *
DEANE, F/L Patrick Kitchener (J13844) - Mention
in Despatches - No.426 Squadron (AFRO says only "Overseas") -
Award effective 14 June 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO
1600/45 dated 12 October 1945. Born 1916
in Port Simpson, British Columbia; home Prince Rupert. Enlisted 17 November 1941. Trained at No.2 ITS, and No.3 AOS. Commissioned 1942. Navigator to F/O L.R. Deryckere. Squadron navigation officer. DHist file 181.009 D.1719 (PAC RG.24
Vol.20606) has recommendation dated 3 February 1945. Had served 26 months in Canada, one year
overseas.
A conscientious and hard working section
leader who has done much to improve the efficiency of the personnel under his
control by the fine example he has set at all times.
DEANE, F/L Patrick Kitchener (J13844) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.426 Squadron - Award effective 15 June 1945 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1291/45 dated 10 August 1945. Incident mentioned was 24 February 1945.
Throughout his tour of operational duty this
officer has set a high standard of skill, gallantry and devotion to duty. In February 1945 he was the navigator in an
aircraft detailed to attack Kamen. On
the bombing run the aircraft was subjected to heavy anti-aircraft fire and
sustained damage. A large piece of
shrapnel pierced the fuselage and struck Flight Lieutenant Deane over the
heart. Although in great pain, Flight
Lieutenant Deane refused to leave his post.
Not until he was satisfied that he had done everything possible to
assist in executing a successful attack would he consent to take a rest. His example on this occasion was in keeping
with that which he has shown at all times.
*
* * * *
DEANE-FREEMAN, F/L (now S/L) Henry Edward
Clive (J4736) - Commended for Valuable Services - No.19 SFTS - Award
effective 14 November 1944 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO
2684/44 dated 15 December 1944. Home in
Nanton, Alberta; enlisted in Montreal, 1 July 1940. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 14 September
1940), No.7 EFTS (graduated 29 November 1940), and No.31 SFTS (graduated 12
February 1941).
This officer, over a long period of time, has
set a particularly outstanding example of efficiency in organization and flying
duties.
*
* * * *
DEARAWAY, W/C Stuart Clark (C2394) - Member,
Order of the British Empire - No.9 BGS - Award effective 1 January 1946 as
per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 82/46 dated 25 January
1946. Home in High River, Alberta.
Enlisted in Toronto, 1 August 1940.
This officer is an exceptionally fine Chief
Engineering Officer who has done a particularly excellent job in organizing
Central Maintenance. Due to his
outstanding ability and extremely high sense of devotion to duty, he is
directly responsible for the efficient and smooth running Maintenance Unit, and
for the present high state of serviceability which continues to exist at this
unit. By his zeal and devotion to duty
he has always set an excellent example.
*
* * * *
DEARING, F/L Philip Frederic (J12624) - Mention
in Despatches - No.10 (BR) Squadron - Award effective 7 July 1945 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1291/45 dated 10 August 1945. Home in London, Ontario; enlisted there 14
May 1941. Trained at No.4 WS (graduated
22 December 1941) and No.5 BGS (graduated 6 July 1942).
As squadron wireless air gunner leader, and
first wireless air gunner on an operational crew, Flight Lieutenant Dearing has
completed nine hundred and forty hours of flying in the North Atlantic area of
operations. During this time he has
constantly displayed the highest order of leadership, skill and keenness in
contributing to the successful conclusion of any task undertaken by his
crew. His cheerfulness and devotion to
duty have been exemplary.
*
* * * *
DECHER, F/O Karl Alfred (J16052) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.408 Squadron - Award effective 19 June 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 30 June 1944 and AFRO 1861/44 dated 25 August 1944. Born 1918
in West Kitchener, Ontario; home in Kitchener, Ontario; enlisted in Hamilton,
16 September 1940. Trained at No.5 BGS
(graduated 21 July 1941) and No.2 WS (graduated 23 June 1941). Commissioned 1942. No citation other than "completed...many
successful operations against the enemy in which [he has] displayed high skill,
fortitude and devotion to duty."
Public Records Office Air 2/9015 has recommendation dated 8 April 1944
when he had completed 25 sorties (219 hours 19 minutes) as a Bomb Aimer, 30 May
1942 to 19 February 1944:
30 May 42 Cologne
(6.10) 17
Nov 42 A/S patrol (9.50)
1 June 42 Essen
(5.15) 21
Nov 42 A/S patrol (11.25)
25 June 42 Bremen
(6.30) 27
Nov 42 A/S patrol (11.05,
19 July 42 Vegasack
(5.50) attacked
sub)
31 July 42 Dusseldorf
(4.50) 1 Dec 42 A/S patrol (10.00)
4 Aug 42 Essen
(4.00) 11
Dec 42 A/S patrol (8.55)
9 Aug 42 Osnabruck
(4.50) 26 Jan
43 Bordeaux (4.45)
12 Aug 42 Mainz
(6.25) 11
Mar 43 Stuttgart (8.55)
4 Sept 42 Bremen
(5.10) 8
Oct 43 Hanover (4.55)
16 Sept 42 Essen
(5.40) 16
Dec 43 Berlin (7.21)
13 Oct 42 Kiel
(7.15) 5
Jan 44 Stettin (8.14)
23 Oct 42 Cologne
(5.45 27
Jan 44 Berlin (8.32)
27 Oct 42 Anti-sub
patrol (5.45) 15 Feb
44 Berlin (7.31)
31 Oct 42 A/S
patrol (11.10) 19
Feb 44 Leipzig (7.11)
7 Nov 42 A/S
patrol (11.10)
10 Nov 42 A/S
patrol (8.25,
attacked by Ju.88)
Flying Officer Decher has been engaged on
operational duties from May 1942 until February 1944, during which time he has
carried out an extremely varied tour, consisting of nine sorties in
anti-submarine patrol, on one of which he attacked a U-Boat. The remainder of his trips comprise numerous
attacks against targets in the Ruhr and also several to Berlin.
As a Bomb Aimer he has, at all times,
performed his duties in an efficient manner, with great keenness and devotion
to duty. I strongly recommend that this
officer be awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.
*
* * * *
DEEGAN, S/L Robert Cyril (J18889) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.420 Squadron - Award effective 2 October 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 13 October 1944 and AFRO 2637/44 dated 8 December 1944. Born 1916 in Smith Falls, Ontario; home
there; enlisted in Perth, Ontario, 31 January 1940. Clerk/accountant who remustered to
aircrew. Trained at No.6 ITS (graduated
24 April 1942), No.7 EFTS (graduated 31 July 1942) and No.9 SFTS (graduated 20
November 1942). Overseas in November
1942. Commissioned 1943. 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.3456
(RG.24 Vol.20639) has recommendation dated 20 July 1944 when he had flown 29
sorties (200 hours 50 minutes), 9 August 1943 to 5 July 1944. Sortie sheet describes a very adventurous tour. First mission (9 August 1943, second pilot,
to Mannheim), aircraft shot up and he baled out over England. Crew on this occasion gave first thought to
their pigeons, releasing them before jumping.
On 27 August 1943 (fourth sortie, Nuremburg) rear gunner shot down enemy
aircraft. Three sorties were early
returns due to turret and gun problems, three early returns with hydraulics and
engine problems; these included a trip to Berlin, 29 December 1943, cut short
over Hanover where bombs were dropped and aircraft finally landed on one
engine.
Squadron Leader Deegan as a Flight Commander
with this squadron has shown outstanding qualities of leadership and
courage. His cheerfulness and strong
sense of duty have inspired a strong standard of morale in this squadron.
Squadron Leader Deegan's tour has included the
principal targets of Germany and France, and on all he has pressed [the] home
attack with cool determination. On two
occasions only his skill and determination extricated he and his crew from a
perilous situation.
In view of this officer's fine record and
devotion to duty, Squadron Leader Deegan is strongly recommended for the award
of the Distinguished Flying Cross.
*
* * * *
DEEKS, FS Arthur Allen Robertson (R71908) - Air
Force Medal - No.5 Squadron (Canada) - Award effective 11 June 1942 as per London
Gazette dated 11 June 1942 and AFRO 1000-1001/42 dated 3 July 1942. Home in Toronto; enlisted there. Trained at No.1 ITS, No.11 and No.8 SFTS
(graduated from No.8 SFTS, Moncton, 3 July 1941).
This NCO is outstanding in his enthusiasm for
duties, both as a Captain and Navigator of operational aircraft. His skill and the confidence he inspires have
resulted in his being given more difficult tasks. He has made 35 war flights entailing 114
hours 20 minutes, and has flown a total of 403 hours 10 minutes between 11th
September 1939 and 31st October 1941.
*
* * * *
DEERING, P/O George Andrew (J17245) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.617 Squadron - Award effective 23 May 1943 as per London
Gazette dated 28 May 1943 and AFRO 1187/43 dated 25 June 1943. Home in Toronto; enlisted there 1 July
1940. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 10
October 1940), No.1 BGS (graduated 15 February 1941), and No.2 WS (graduated 20
January 1941). Ruhr dams raid - see F/O D.R. Walker for citation.
*
* * * *
DEGAZIO, WO (now P/O) Graziano Victor
(R90693/J86860) - Mention in Despatches - No.280 Squadron - Award
effective 1 January 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO
379/45 dated 2 March 1945. Home in
Nottingham; enlisted in North Bay, 6 May 1941).
Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 20 August 1941), No.10 EFTS (graduated 7
October 1941) and No.16 SFTS (graduated 9 January 1942).
*
* * * *
DEHOUX, F/O Joseph Laurier (J15145) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.137 Squadron - Award effective 30 July 1943 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 358/44 dated 18 February 1944. Born 1920 in Quebec. Home in Toronto; enlisted there 22 June
1940. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 27
July 1940), No.3 EFTS (graduated 21 October 1940) and No.1 SFTS (graduated 30
January 1941). Commissioned 1942. Killed in action 2 September 1943 (Hurricane
HX698) after attack on lock gates at Hansleert; buried in Holland.
This officer has participated in many sorties
including attacks on enemy airfields, both by day and night, on military
installations and shipping. In the
course of his activities Flying Officer Dehoux has inflicted damage on nineteen
barges, three minesweepers and five locomotives. He has displayed great skill and fighting
qualities.
*
* * * *
DELAGRAVE, F/L Michael Joseph Pierre (C2524) -
Member, Order of the British Empire - No.3 Personnel Reception Depot,
Overseas - Award effective 1 January 1943 as per Canada Gazette dated 9
January 194 and AFRO 55/43 dated 15 January 1943. Born in Quebec City, 20 May 1911. Home in
Rouyn, Quebec. Enlisted in Ottawa, 24
August 1940.
This officer is presently filling an extremely
important "accounts" post. In
addition to being inherently capable at his present trade, Flight Lieutenant
Delagrave has the additional qualification of being able to successfully handle
the rather complicated task of tying in the RCAF Pay and Accounting
organization with the Royal Air Force.
The work has been onerous and as trainees are at this station for such a
short time the Accounts Branch is working continually and under great
pressure. Flight Lieutenant Delagrave
has accepted the extra duties in a cheerful and unselfish manner and by his
very manner has affected [effected ?] an exceptionally fine liaison with the
Royal Air Force. His work is
outstanding.
*
* * * *
DELANEY, Anthony Leo (J22419) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.419 Squadron - Award effective 3 November 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1/45 dated 5 January 1945. Born 1923 in Peterborough, Ontario. Home in
Lakefield, Ontario; enlisted in Toronto, 8 December 1941. Trained at No.4 BGS (graduated 21 November
1942) and No.9 AOS (graduated 30 December 1942). Commissioned 1942.
As air bomber Flying Officer Delaney has
completed many sorties against the enemy.
He has shown the greatest determination in pressing home his
attacks. On several occasions, when his
aircraft has been hit by anti-aircraft fire whilst illuminated in the
searchlights, he has insisted on a steady run to ensure accuracy of bombing. In September 1944, when attacking Emden in
daylight, Flying Officer Delaney's aircraft was repeatedly hit by pieces of
shell. He himself was slightly wounded
in the head. Despite this he directed
his pilot on a straight run over the target to execute a successful
attack. This officer has invariably displayed
a high degree of skill and gallantry.
*
* * * *
DELANEY, W/C Peter Scott (C819) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.145 (BR) Squadron - Award effective 21 April 1945 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 802/45 dated 11 May 1945. Enlisted in RCAF as P/P/O, 8 February 1938;
qualified for pilot's badge, Trenton, 17 June 1939. At outbreak of war he was with No.3 Squadron,
Eastern Air Command. As of
recommendation he had flown 1,315 hours, 385 operational (76 sorties). Remained in post-war RCAF; Queen's Coronation
Medal, 23 October 1953, when he was a Wing Commander with Tactical Air Group.
This officer has set a splendid record during
his operational career and has proved himself to be an outstanding squadron
commander. His keenness, efficiency and
high qualities of leadership have been reflected throughout his squadron both
in the air and on the ground. He has set
an example to all when under the most trying conditions he has pressed on to
the successful completion of his task.
His courage and devotion to duty are of the highest order.
*
* * * *
DELANEY, F/L Thomas Robert (J14858) - Commended
for Valuable Services - No.18 SFTS - Award effective 5 May 1944 as per London
gazette of that date and AFRO 1133/44 dated 26 May 1944. Home in New York. Enlisted at Toronto, 6 December 1940 -
Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 4 May 1941), No.7 EFTS (graduated 21 June 1941),
and No.6 SFTS (graduated 14 September 1941.
As of award had flown 1,620 hours, 1,520 as instructor, 200 in previous
six month.
This officer has been a flying instructor
since September 1941 and has displayed outstanding instructional and
administrative ability. On one occasion,
with complete disregard for his personal safety, he endeavoured to save the
life of his pupil when his aircraft caught fire and crashed.
DELANEY, F/L Thomas Robert (J14858) - Air
Force Cross - No.18 SFTS - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 82/46 dated 25 January 1946. Governor General's Records (RG.7 Group 26,
Volume 59, file 190-I, dossier 8) has citation.
When recommended he had flown 1,620 hours (as of December 1943), 1,520
as instructor, 200 in previous six months (same as for Commendation).
This officer commenced instructing as a
non-commissioned officer pilot in September 1941, and since that time he has
been employed on flying instructional duties.
His outstanding ability as a flying instructor is displayed by
exceptional qualities of skill and leadership.
On one occasion this officer, with complete disregard for personal
safety, endeavoured to save the life of his pupil, when his aircraft caught
fire and crashed.
*
* * * *
DELANY, Flight Sergeant Charles Edward
(R55311) - Distinguished Flying Medal - No.142 Squadron - Award
effective 17 March 1943 as per London Gazette dated 13 April 1943 and
AFRO 809/43 dated 7 May 1943. Born 1921
in Quebec; home there; enlisted there 20 June 1940. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 17 August
1940), No.6 BGS (graduated 1 September 1941), and No.1 WS (graduated 26 June
1941).
This airman has completed 31 operational
sorties as a rear gunner, and by his steady and skilful method of guiding his
pilot through heavy ground defences, has contributed in no small measure to the
successes achieved. One night in May
1942, Flight Sergeant Delany was a member of a crew detailed to attack
Stuttgart. Whilst over the target area
the bomber was attacked by an enemy night fighter. Flight Sergeant Delany drove off the first
attack and directed his pilot in the subsequent evasive tactics which resulted
in the engagement being broken off and enabled the mission to be successfully
completed.
*
* * * *
DELLER, F/L Morley Saxton (C3403) - Mention
in Despatches - No.880 AMES - Award effective 14 January 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 874/44 dated 21 April 1944. Unit identified only as "Overseas"
in AFRO; found in DHist file 181.009
D.1711 "Honours and Awards - Awards to RCAF Personnel in Middle East"
(NAC RG.24 Box 20605). Home in Brownsville, Ontario; enlisted in London,
Ontario, 15 November 1940. No citation.
*
* * * *
DELISLE, F/L Joseph Charles Herve (J16655) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.425 Squadron - Award effective 25 September 1943 as per London
Gazette dated 28 September 1943 and AFRO 2198/43 dated 29 October
1943. Home in Montreal; enlisted there
24 April 1941. Trained at No.3 ITS
(graduated 1 September 1941), No.4 EFTS (graduated 25 October 1941) and No.9
SFTS (graduated 27 February 1942).
This officer has completed very many sorties
during which he has attacked a variety of targets with success. Flight Lieutenant Delisle is a skilful pilot
whose determination and thoroughness have often been demonstrated. On one occasion his aircraft was hit whilst
over the target, the hydraulic system was damaged causing the undercarriage to
fall to the down position while the bomb doors could not be closed. Flight Lieutenant Delisle flew the damaged
aircraft to base where he effected a safe landing although both tires of the
landing wheels were punctured. This
officer has displayed great courage and devotion to duty.
*
* * * *
DELORIE, P/O Albert Henry (J92283) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.158 Squadron - Award effective 10 May 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 25 May 1945 and AFRO 1291/45 dated 10 August 1945. Born 1916 in Pictou, Nova Scotia. Home in Trail, British Columbia (chemical
plant employee); enlisted in Calgary 23 July 1941. Trained at No.7 ITS (graduated 17 April 1943)
and No.5 AOS (graduated 29 October 1943).
Commissioned October 1944. 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 2/9070 has recommendation dated 15 February 1945 when he had
flown 29 sorties (142 hours 22 minutes), 9 August 1944 to 4 February 1945.
9 Aug 44 Les
Landes (3.32) 7 Oct 44 Kleve (4.47)
10 Aug 44 Dijon
(7.00) 9
Oct 44 Bochum (5.25)
11 Aug 44 Etaples
(3.54) 14 Oct
44 Duisburg (5.07)
18 Aug 44 Sterkrade
(4.47) 15 Oct 44 Duisburg (5.22)
11 Sep 44 Le
Havre (4.28) 25
Oct 44 Essen (4.58),
12 Sep 44 Gelsenkirchen
(4.32) Krupp
works.
13 Sep 44 Gelsenkirchen- 28 Oct 44 Domberg (3.04)
Nordstern (4.36) 29 Oct 44 Zoutelande
(3.14)
15 Sep 44 Kiel
(5.58) 30
Oct 44 Cologne (6.13), cloud
23 Sep 44 Neuss
(5.02) over
target.
25 Sep 44 Calais
(4.14), 2 Nov
44 Dusseldorf (5.01)
recalled by Master 29 Nov 44 Essen
(5.57), bombed
Bomber. through
clouds.
26 Sep 44 Calais
(3.36) 30 Nov
44 Duisburg (6.08), do.
27 Sep 44 Calais
(3.46) 2 Dec
44 Hagen (6.02), do.
30 Sep 44 Bottrop
(4.22), 6 Dec
44 Osnabruck (5.33), do.
bombed through 12
Dec 44 Essen (5.39), do.
cloud. 4
Feb 45 Gelsenkirchen (5.06)
6 Oct 44 Sterkrade
(4.59),
bombed through
cloud.
Pilot Officer Delorie has completed 29 sorties
in his operational tour as a navigator with this squadron and has earned a
reputation for keenness, efficiency, initiative and courage. More than 20 of his sorties have been to
major objectives in the most heavily defended areas of Germany. At all times he has shown the greatest desire
to fly against the enemy and his accurate work has been a great factor in the
excellent results achieved by his crew.
In the face of the severest enemy fire his
high qualities as a navigator have remained unimpaired and his cool courage in
times of danger has been a source of inspiration to others of his crew.
Apart from his excellent work in the air,
Pilot Officer Delorie has contributed considerably to the operational
efficiency of the squadron by his devotion to duty in the routine tasks in his
section on the ground.
It is recommended that this officer's
excellent record of operations, his courage and skill in all branches of his
work throughput a hazardous tour, be recognized by the award of the
Distinguished Flying Cross.
*
* * * *
DEMERS, Corporal Edward Albert (R130872) - Mention
in Despatches - No.424 Squadron - Award effective 14 January 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 874/44 dated 21 April 1944. Home in Edmonton; enlisted there 23 October
1941.
*
* * * *
DeMONE, Sergeant Harold Edison (R88360) - Distinguished
Flying Medal - No.16 OTU - Award effective 14 August 1942 as per London
Gazette dated 1 September 1942 and AFRO 1535/42 dated 25 September
1942. Born 1915 in Bridgewater, Nova
Scotia; home there (clothing clerk).
Enlisted in Halifax. Trained at
No.3 ITS, No.21 EFTS, and No.5 BGS.
Award presented 17 May 1945.
In June 1942, this airman was the rear gunner
of an aircraft which successfully attacked Essen. On the return flight the
aircraft was held in a cone of searchlights and attacked by an enemy fighter,
and was extensively damaged. Sergeant
DeMone, who was engaged on his second operational mission, displayed
exceptional courage and resource.
NOTE:
The original recommendation is in Public Record Office Air 2/4891 and
reproduced by Ian Tavender, The Distinguished Flying Medal Register for the
Second World War (Savannah Publications, London, 2000). Drafted 14 August 1942; he had flown two
sorties (six hours 15 minutes).
This Non-Commissioned Officer was detailed as
rear gunner in an aircraft detailed to attack Essen on the night of 1st/2nd
June 1941. After the target was bombed,
the aircraft turned for home but was caught in a cone of searchlights and
attacked by an enemy night fighter.
Owing to glare, it was impossible to tell the direction of the attack
but the result was that one engine caught fire and the fire rapidly spread. The captain ordered the crew to abandon by
parachute. Sergeant de Mone took to his
parachute and arrived safely on the ground where he immediately set about
escaping by carefully burying his parachute and setting off to walk to the
frontier. In three weeks he was safely
back in our hands although two other members of the same crew are now reported
as prisoners of war. This was Sergeant
de Mone's second operational flight, although he was still under training and
he showed exceptional perseverance and skill in effecting his escape, a fact
which must have a profoundly beneficial effect on the morale of his comrades.
Public Record Office file War Office 208 3309
has a report based on interview of 13 July 1942, he having arrived in Gibraltar
on 6 July 1942 and at Gourock on 12 July 1942.
I was a member of the crew of an aircraft
which left Upper Heyford, Oxon, at 2100 hours on 1 June to bomb Essen. On the return flight we had to bale out, and
I landed near Mechlin (Belgium) about 0200 hours on 2 June. I do not know what happened to the other
members of the crew:- P/O Robinson, pilot; P/O O'Brien, navigator; F/Sgt
Forrester, wireless A/G; and Sgt Beal, bomb layer.
I buried my parachute in the swamp in which I
landed and then started walking westwards.
I walked until about 0500 hours, when I met a farmer who took me to a
house, where I was given bread and coffee and civilian clothes. I left as soon as possible and, following
directions which I had been given, went along the canal towards Brussels. Near the village of Hombeek I was overtaken
about 0600 hours by a farmer who took me to a small brewery. I remained there all day and at 2000 hours I
was put in touch with an organization which arranged for my return to this
country.
This report is supplemented by another dated
18 July 1942, prepared by MI.9/S/P.G. and again based on the interview of 13
July 1942:
A Belgian officer lived at the small brewery
at Hombeek, near Brussels, at which I found shelter on the morning of 2 June
42. This officer got in touch with Baron
Lindon, who lives in a chateau across the canal from the brewery. Baron Lindon came and questioned me about the
Royal Air Force and about Canada. After
I had satisfied him as to my identity, he said he could help me. He gave me some clothes and told me to be
ready next morning.
Next morning the Belgian officer took me by
tram to Brussels. He gave me money for
my fare and told me what to say, and I sat alone during the journey. Baron Lindon joined the tram about half way
to Brussels and sat down opposite me. In
Brussels he took me to an apartment.
Half an hour later another man took me to a large park and from there to
a church, where he handed me over to a third man. I gave this man my French money and other
articles, such as my compass and my identity disc. I was then handed over to a girl called Betty
Christy, who I believe is English. She
took me to a house, where I remained for four days till the afternoon of 7
June, when I had to leave for the night because the Germans were searching the
houses in the neighbourhood for a wireless set.
On 8 June the girl took me to the station and handed me over to a woman
guide who broke a leg on a recent journey over the Pyrenees. We had no difficulties on the train journey,
and arrived in Paris about 2100 hours on 8 June. I was sheltered in Paris in a house till the
night of 10 June when I left by train for St.Jean-de-Luz along with the guide
Didi, P/O Horsley, S/P.G(-)771, Sergeant Baverstock, S/P.G.-772 and a young
Belgian. We travelled first class. At a station just before our destination two
girls came onto the train and I changed tickets with one of them, as my ticket
did not go all the way. I was not asked
for my identity card at the station exit at St.Jean-de-Luz, probably because I
look French and was wearing a cross round my neck. We walked from the station to a flat above a
cafe and stayed one night there.
On the night of 12 June we went to a farmhouse
where a Basque guide collected us for the journey across the Pyrenees. On the Spanish side we slept in a barn from
0545 to 1000 hours (13 June). P/O
Horsley, Didi and I then went to a cafe in a village and were joined there two
hours later by the rest of the party.
Didi went to San Sebastian and [we] were sent to Madrid by car. I stayed for two weeks at the Embassy before
being sent to Gibraltar.
*
* * * *
DEMPSEY, F/O Murray White (C17993) - Mention
in Despatches - No.31 Base - Award effective 1 January 1945 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 379/45 dated 2 March 1945. Home in Winnipeg;
enlisted there 8 March 1941.
*
* * * *
DEMPSEY, F/O Stephen William (J21039) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.419 Squadron - Award effective 19 May 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1296/44 dated 16 June 1944. Born 1920 in Consecon, Ontario. Home in Oshawa; enlisted in Toronto, 4 August
1941. Trained at No.5 ITS (graduated 19
December 1941), No.6 BGS (graduated 9 May 1942), No.4 AOS (graduated 20
November 1942), No.9 AOS (graduated 28 March 1942) and No.1 ANS (graduated 3
July 1942). Commissioned 1942.
As air bomber, this officer has completed a
large number of sorties, including many against heavily defended and far
distant targets. Throughout, he has
displayed the greatest keenness and his example of courage and determination
has been of a high order. He has proved
himself to be a most valuable member of aircraft crew.
*
* * * *
DEMPSTER, F/O John Henry (J9449) - Air
Force Cross - No.2 Flying Instructors School - Award effective 26 October
1943 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 2386/43 dated 19
November 1943. Home in McLeod,
Alberta. Enlisted in Saskatoon, 30
January 1941. Trained at No.1 ITS
(graduated 21 July 1941), No.20 EFTS (graduated 13 September 1941) and No.13
SFTS (graduated 19 December 1941).
This officer, as a flying instructor for the
past twenty-five months, has on every occasion shown outstanding initiative,
leadership, and ability and is most thorough in anything he undertakes. He is an outstanding instructor whose
devotion to duty has been an inspiration to those who work with him.
*
* * * *
DEMPSTER, FS John McBride (R110183) - Distinguished
Flying Medal - No.57 Squadron - Award effective 30 January 1943 as per London
Gazette dated 12 February 1943 and AFRO 410/43 dated 12 March 1943. Born 1923 in Edmonton; home in Vancouver;
enlisted there 25 June 1941. Trained at
No.2 ITS, No.12 EFTS, Station Trenton, and No.1 BGS. Award presented by the King, 18 May 1943.
As air gunner this airman has participated in
numerous sorties including an attack on Berlin and the daylight raids on Le
Creusot and Milan. One night in December
1942, during a flight over Duisberg, Flight Sergeant Dempster shot down an
enemy fighter which attempted to attack his aircraft. One night in January 1943 he took part in an
attack on Essen. During the return
flight his aircraft was attacked by an enemy fighter but Flight Sergeant
Dempster drove it off with devastating fire, which caused it to fall towards
the ground with one of its engines alight.
This airman is a courageous and skilful gunner.
*
* * * *
DEMPSTER, FS (later WO2) William Joseph
(R83543) - Distinguished Flying Medal - No.7 Squadron (dead) - Award
effective 1 March 1943 as per London Gazette dated 17 April 1945 and
AFRO 918/45. Born 1919. Home in Toronto
(restaurant manager); enlisted there 21 November 1940. Trained at No.2 WS (graduated 20 July 1941)
and No.4 BGS (graduated 18 August 1941).
In all his operational sorties, many of which
have been against the enemy's most heavily defended targets, Flight Sergeant
Dempster has displayed courage and coolness.
He has largely contributed to the successes achieved by his
determination to press home the attack however heavy the opposition. This airman has obtained some excellent
photographs.
*
* * * *
DENBEIGH, F/O George (J39952) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.153 Squadron - Award effective 8 September 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 21 September 1945 and AFRO 1704/45 dated 9 November
1945. Born 1914 in Toronto; home there
(railway mail clerk); enlisted there 14 July 1942. Trained at No.3 ITS (graduated 3 April 1943)
and No.10 AOS (graduated 14 January 1944).
Commissioned December 1943. 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 2/8750 has recommendation dated 12 April 1945 when he had
flown 31 sorties (211 hours), 29 November 1944 to 10 April 1945.
29 Nov 44 Dortmund 20 Feb 45 Dortmund
4 Dec 44 Karlsruhe 21 Feb 45 Duisburg
17 Dec 44 Ulm 23 Feb
45 Pforzheim
22 Dec 44 Coblenz 7 Mar 45 Dessau
28 Dec 44 Bonn 8 Mar 45 Kassel
29 Dec 44 Gelsenkirchen 11 Mar 45 Essen
31 Dec 44 Osterfeld 12 Mar 45 Dortmund
2 Jan 45 Nuremburg 13 Mar 45 Gelsenkirchen
5 Jan 45 Royan 16 Mar 45 Nuremburg
16 Jan 45 Zeitz 21 Mar
45 Bremen
28 Jan 45 Stuttgart 22 Mar 45 Hildesheim
1 Feb 45 Ludwigshaven 27 Mar 45 Paderborn
3 Feb 45 Bottrop 4 Apr 45 GARDENING
7 Feb 45 Cleve 9 Apr 45 Kiel
8 Feb 45 Politz 10 Apr 45 Plauen
13 Feb 45 Dresden
This Canadian navigator has now completed 31
sorties against targets in Germany and occupied territory. He has taken part in attacks on heavily
defended targets such as Nuremburg, Stuttgart, Gelsenkirchen and Dortmund.
Flying Officer Denbeigh has displayed a keen
sense of duty and navigational skill of a high order. In face of stiff opposition and adverse
circumstances he has shown extreme coolness and disregard for his personal
safety, and this has contributed in a large measure to the successful completion
of his sorties. His skill and devotion
to duty have set a fine example. Flying
Officer Denbeigh's record fully merits the award of the Distinguished Flying
Cross.
*
* * * *
DENISON, S/L Richard Lippincott (C1341) - Commended
for Valuable Services - No.436 Squadron - Award effective 7 September 1945
as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 1647/45 dated 26 October
1945. Born 1917 in Stratford, Ontario;
home in Winnipeg; enlisted in Winnipeg,
9 October 1939. Commissioned October
1939. Remained in postwar RCAF, serving
at one time as CO of Station North Bay and as SASO in No.1 Air Division. No citation in Canadian records. Public Records Office Air 2/9117 has recommendation
drafted when he had flown 1,017 hours, 539 hours in previous six months.
This officer has been with this squadron as a Flight Commander
since its formation. His keenness and
devotion to duty have set a high standard to his crew. On one occasion, while returning to base in
adverse weather, all radio aids became unserviceable. While attempting to land, his port engine
failed and although the aircraft was over mountainous terrain Squadron Leader
Denison was able to climb to a safe altitude and together with his crew he
abandoned the aircraft. The coolness and
leadership which Squadron Leader Denison displayed in this situation was an
inspiration to all and made possible an early rescue of his crew.
DENISON, W/C Richard Lippincott (C1341) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.436 Squadron - Awarded 15 January 1946 as per London
Gazette dated 29 January 1946 and AFRO 322/46 dated 29 March 1946.
Wing Commander Denison has served with this
squadron as flight commander for nine months.
During this time he has given valuable support to the 14th Army. Early in his operational career this officer
and his crew were forced to abandon their aircraft. Owing largely to his skill this was
accomplished successfully. Following the
fall of Rangoon, Wing Commander Denison helped considerably in transport
operations by piloting a weather observation aircraft throughout the monsoon
period. This service was largely
responsible for the continuous air supply to the Army and undoubtedly saved
many aircraft from disaster. Wing
Commander Denison's outstanding and fearless devotion to duty has been worthy
of the highest praise.
*
* * * *
DENNETT, S/L Lionel John (C7178) - Mention
in Despatches Overseas - Award effective 14 June 1945 as per London Gazette
of that date and AFRO 1395/45 dated 31 August 1945. Home in Kent, England; enlisted in Winnipeg,
4 June 1941.
*
* * * *
DENNETT, F/O William Edward (J25933) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.425 Squadron - Award effective 15 December 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 293/45 dated 16 February 1945. Born 1921 in
Toronto; home there (clerk); enlisted in Toronto, 19 January 1942. Trained at No.5 ITS (graduated 10 October
1942), No.13 EFTS (graduated 10 January 1943) and No.1 SFTS (graduated 30 April
1943). Commissioned April 1943.
This officer has completed a tour of
operational duty in which he has attacked very many enemy targets. He has displayed high qualities of skill and
courage and throughout his determination to complete his mission successfully
has won great praise. He is a fine
captain whose example has greatly inspired his crew.
*
* * * *
DENNEY, LAC John William (R137599) - Mention
in Despatches - Station Gander - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 82/46 dated 25 January 1946. Home in Sydney, Nova Scotia; enlisted there
13 November 1941.
This airman has been a cook in charge of the
Civilian Mess at this station for over eighteen months and during this period
has performed his duties in an outstanding manner under difficult
conditions. His kitchen and mess hall
have been examples of perfection and his efforts have resulted in a high morale
among the civilian employees of the station.
*
* * * *
DENNIS, FS Peter Woodrow (R14066) - Distinguished
Flying Medal - No.432 Squadron - Award effective 8 January 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 25 January 1944 and AFRO 410/44 dated 25 February 1944. Born 1923 in Fort William, Ontario; home
there (clerk); enlisted Winnipeg, 13 November 1941. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 4 July 1942),
No.2 EFTS (graduated 29 August 1942) and No.12 SFTS (graduated 18 December
1942).
Flight Sergeant Dennis has completed numerous
sorties and has displayed great skill, determination and devotion to duty. One night in November 1943 he piloted an
aircraft detailed to attack Berlin.
Whilst over the target area his aircraft was attacked on three occasions
by enemy fighters. Nevertheless, he
skilfully evaded the enemy aircraft and successfully attacked the target,
afterwards flying his badly damaged aircraft to base. His effort was highly commendable.
*
* * * *
DENNISON, P/O Borden Carrick (J16008) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.405 Squadron - Award effective 19 October 1943 as per London
Gazette dated 2 November 1943 and AFRO 2457/43 dated 26 November 1943. Born 27 September 1911 in Cardale, Manitoba;
home there (transport operator).
Enlisted 4 February 1941. Trained
at No.3 ITS, No.16 EFTS and No.3 SFTS.
Further trained at No.22 OTU (Wellesbourne). Shot down 11/12 March 1943 and evaded
capture; left Gibraltar on 17 July 1943 and reached Liverpool on 24 July 1943;
see Public Records Office Air 2/5025 with MI.9 report on his evasion; see also
awards to P/O E.L. Bulman (Mention in Despatches) and P/O G.L. Spencer (Mention
in Despatches).
In air operations this officer displayed
skill, courage and fortitude of a high order.
*
* * * *
DENOMY, F/O Bernard Charles (J11265) - Distinguished
Service Order - No.162 (BR) Squadron - Award effective 28 July 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1729/44 dated 11 August 1944. Born 1920 in Chatham, Ontario; home there or
Temiskaming, Quebec; enlisted in Port Arthur, Ontario, 5 May 1941. Trained at
No.2 ITS (graduated 13 October 1941), No.8 EFTS (graduated 2 January 1942), and
No.11 SFTS (graduated 21 April 1942).
Cited with F/Os Graham Campbell and Sidney E. Matheson (DFCs) and Flight
Sergeants Israel J. Bodnoff and Sydney R. Cole (DFMs).
These officers and airmen were members of the
crew of the aircraft captained by Flight Lieutenant Hornell, who successfully
engaged a U-Boat in northern waters. In
the engagement they displayed a high degree of courage, discipline and devotion
to duty, co-operating splendidly with their captain in his determination to
destroy the enemy submarine.
Subsequently they suffered great hardships whilst adrift on the
sea. During this long period each member
of the crew assisted the others to the utmost extent, unmindful of his own
distress.
NOTE: Public Record Office Air 2/9158 has
recommendation raised 1 July 1944 by the Officer Commanding, RAF Station
Wick. It noted that Denomy had flown
approximately 40 sorties (450 operational hours):
Flying Officer Denomy was second pilot of
Canso "P" of 162 Squadron which carried out a successful attack on
24th June against a U=Boat. This officer
in the face of devastating anti-aircraft fire from the U-Boat showed
exceptional courage and devotion to duty in assisting the captain to retain
control of the severely damaged aircraft, which, during the run in to the
attack, was being hit repeatedly.
The aircraft was almost out of control due to
the starboard engine being out of action and on fire. It was undoubtedly due to his assistance and
exertions that the crippled aircraft was enabled to achieve the sinking of the
U-Boat immediately before the starboard engine fell out, and the aircraft was
forced to ditch.
During the 21 hours which the survivors spent
in the water before being rescued, he maintained their morale on the highest
level and did all in his power to assist those in distress. There is little doubt that Flying Officer
Campbell would have died but for his efforts.
I have no hesitation in strongly recommending
him for the award of the Distinguished Service Order which he so richly
deserves.
To this the Air Officer Commanding, No.18
Group, added (2 July 1944):
There is little doubt that Flying Officer
Denomy did much to assist Flight Lieutenant Hornell during this gallant
attack. His behaviour throughout the
action and subsequently is deserving of the highest praise. Strongly recommended for the immediate award
of the Distinguished Service Order.
*
* * * *
DENT, P/O Lionel Ronald Gordon (J87961) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.433 Squadron - Award effective 5 February 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 20 February 1945 and AFRO 563/45 dated 29 March 1945. Born 1924.
Home in Vancouver (clerk); enlisted in Hamilton, 8 April 1942. Trained at No.5 ITS (graduated 10 October
1942), No.10 AOS (graduated 2 February 1943) and No.4 BGS (graduated 19 April
1943). Commissioned 1944. 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.2610 (RG.24 Vol.20627)
has recommendation dated 15 November 1944 when he had completed 31 sorties (156
hours 20 minutes), 10 May to 14 October 1944.
This officer, the Bomb Aimer of the crew
captained by Flight Lieutenant Orendorff, has now completed thirty-one
operational sorties over enemy territory comprising a wide variety of targets
both in France and Germany.
The courage, skill and determination in action
displayed at all times by Pilot Officer Dent have been a great inspiration to
his crew, and his coolness and devotion to duty have contributed in a large
measure to the success of his many operational flights.
*
* * * *
DENTON, F/O Douglas Ernst (J35721) - Mention
in Despatches - Overseas - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 388/46 dated 12 April 1946. American in the RCAF; home in Berkley,
California; enlisted in Vancouver, 19 March 1943. Trained at No.4 ITS (graduated 19 March
1943), No.5 EFTS (graduated 28 May 1943) and No.3 SFTS (graduated 17 September
1943).
*
* * * *
DERRY, S/L Duncan Ramsay (C2551) - Commended
for Valuable Services - No.1 CNS - award effective 1 January 1946 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 82/46 dated 25 January 1946. Home in Toronto; enlisted there 19 August
1940.
This officer has shown exceptional devotion to
duty and outstanding service in the organization and supervision of air and
ground training at this unit. He has
done exceptional work as a Navigation Instructor at No.1 Air Observer
School. He has been a great source of
help and inspiration to junior Instructors.
It is considered that he has made an exceptional contribution to the war
effort in the department of navigation training.
*
* * * *
DERRY, P/O Fred Craig (J16968) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.40 Squadron - Award effective 23 November 1943 as per London
Gazette dated 30 November 1943 and AFRO 166/44 dated 28 January 1944. Born 1922 in Toronto; home there; enlisted
there 13 November 1940. Trained at No.1
ITS (graduated 4 May 1941), No.7 EFTS (graduated 21 June 1941) and No.6 SFTS
(graduated 13 September 1941).
Commissioned 1943.
During his first tour of duty Pilot Officer
Derby operated in support of the army in Egypt from June to November 1942. Since joining his present squadron in June
1943, he has completed a number of sorties in Sicily, Italy and Sardinia,
consistently obtaining good results confirmed by excellent photographs. In August 1943, in an attack on Naples, he
was the first to enter the defended area, and in the face of intense and
accurate anti-aircraft fire he performed his allotted tasks with extreme
efficiency.
*
* * * *
DERYCKERE, F/L Lucien Roger (J29072) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.426 Squadron - Award effective 5 July 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 17 July 1945 and AFRO 1558/45 dated 5 October 1945. Born 1916 in Heule West, Flanders,
Belgium. Home in Windsor, Ontario
(welder); enlisted in Hamilton, 16 June 1942.
Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 18 February 1943), No.2 EFTS (graduated
16 April 1943) and No.12 SFTS (graduated 6 August 1943). Commissioned 1943. 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.2618 (RG.24 Vol.20627) has recommendation dated 1 April 1945 when he had
flown 31 sorties (161 hours), 25 August 1944 to 24 March 1945.
Flight Lieutenant Deryckere has completed
thirty-one sorties during his present tour of operations during which he has
proven himself to be a skilful and determined captain of aircraft. He has attacked many important tactical
targets in Germany, both by day and by night, and has at all times attacked his
objectives with a high degree of success.
Flight Lieutenant Deryckere has maintained a fine offensive spirit
throughout his tour of operations that has been inspiring to new members of the
squadron. For his devotion to duty and
commendable fighting spirit I strongly recommend the award of a non-immediate
Distinguished Flying Cross to this officer.
*
* * * *
DES RIVIERES, Sergeant Rodolphe Wilfred
Leopold (R53502) - British Empire Medal - No.12 Communications Squadron
- Award effective 1 January 1946 as per Canada Gazette of that date and
AFRO 82/46 dated 25 January 1946. Home
in Ottawa; enlisted there, 11 October 1939.
This non-commissioned officer has shown
consistent diligence and energy in the discharge of his duties, which have set
a fine example to junior airmen. His
skill and efficiency, coupled with outstanding devotion to duty are very
praiseworthy.
*
* * * *
DESAULTELS, F/O Robert Victor (J26303) - Mention
in Despatches Overseas - Award effective 14 June 1945 as per London Gazette
of that date and AFRO 1600/45 dated 12 October 1945. Home in Montreal; enlisted there 12 January
1940. Trained at No.4 ITS (graduated 24
October 1942), No.7 BGS (graduated 5 March 1943) and No.1 AOS (graduated 15 May
1943).
*
* * * *
DESBIENS, FS Joseph Roch Albert (Can 10069) - British
Empire Medal - No.7 SFTS - Award effective 28 May 1943 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1459/43 dated 30 July 1943. Born in Grand Mere, Quebec, 1917. Enlisted Montreal, 12 August 1940. Enlisted in Montreal, 21 March 1939.
This NCO is one of the original staff assigned
to open this unit in December 1940.
Possessed of a radiant personality, Flight Sergeant Desbiens, by his
devotion to duty, loyalty and energy, has been an inspiration to his juniors
and has in no small measure been responsible for the efficiency of the
Equipment Section of this unit.
*
* * * *
DESCHAINE, WO (now P/O) Gordon Edward
(R1009929/J93784) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.74 Squadron - Award
effective 10 May 1945 as per London Gazette dated 24 May 1945 and
AFRO 1453/45 dated 14 September 1945.
Born 1922 in Windsor; home there (student); enlisted there 4 August
1941. Trained at No.5 ITS (graduated 21
November 1941), No.9 AOS (graduated 13 March 1942), No.4 BGS (graduated 24
April 1942 and No.2 ANS (graduated 25 May 1942). Commissioned January 1945.
This Warrant Officer has completed numerous
operations against the enemy in the course of which he has invariably displayed
the utmost fortitude, courage and devotion to duty.
*
* * * *
DESJARDINS, FS George (R50276) - Mention in
Despatches Overseas - Award effective 14 June 1945 as per London Gazette
of that date and AFRO 1600/45 dated 12 October 1945. Home in Edmundston, New Brunswick; enlisted
in Moncton, 25 October 1939. No
citation. NOTE: a citation is given with
the 1946 award, but there is uncertainty about whether it belongs with that
date or with this one.
DESJARDINS, FS George (R50276) - Mention in
Despatches - No.113 (BR) Squadron - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 82/46 dated 25 January 1946. Previously MiD, 14 June 1945 with
citation. NOTE: it is uncertain whether
the following should be with this award or the 1945 one:
This non-commissioned officer, in addition to
his normal duties, has by his own initiative and in his own time worked long
hours in order to maintain the serviceability of aircraft which materially
contributed to the success of the operations carried out by his unit. His efficiency and devotion to duty have set
a splendid example to his subordinates.
*
* * * *
DESLAURIERS, WO1 John James (Can 2445) - Member,
Order of the British Empire - No.425 Squadron (Station Tholthorpe in AFRO)
- Award effective 14 June 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and
AFRO 1219/45 dated 27 July 1945. Born 4
September 1914, Ste.Marguerite, Quebec. After high school he took a two-year
course in aero engines. Home in
Montreal; enlisted there; enlisted there 14 June 1938; posted overseas 24
September 1942. No citation in AFRO or
biographical file. DHist file 181.009
D.1719 (PAC RG.24 Vol.20606) has recommendation dated 30 January 1945 when he
was Warrant Officer in charge of No.425 Squadron Daily Servicing:
The above-mentioned is a Warrant Officer of
high calibre. He has seen service in
Canada, Africa and England. Since being
overseas he has been attached to 425 Squadron.
His technical and organizing ability along
with his tireless energy and devotion to duty has been an inspiration to all
the men working with him. The success of
425 Squadron is, in no small way, due to the good work of the ground crew under
the direction of Warrant Officer Deslauriers.
He commands the respect of all who have come in contact with him.
Public Records Office Air 2/9056 has final
recommended citation.
This warrant officer is employed in charge of
daily servicing of No.425 Squadron. His
ability and enthusiasm have made a commendable contribution to the squadron's
operational effort. In addition to this
warrant officer's work at RCAF Station Tholthorpe, he was called in to assist
in the organization of No.415 Squadron when it formed at Eastmoor. Warrant Officer Deslaurier's outstanding work
is worthy of high praise.
*
* * * *
DESLOGES, W/C John Paul Joseph (C788) -
Overseas (deceased) - Chevalier, Legion of Honour (France) - Awarded as
per AFRO 1619/45 dated 19 October 1945.
Born in Hull, Quebec; educated University of Ottawa. RCMP before the war. Became a Provisional Pilot Officer,RCAF, 1
October 1937; confirmed in rank and promoted to Flying Officer, 1 October 1938,
having trained at Camp Borden and Trenton and receiving pilot's flying badge on
28 November 1938. Served with No.1 (C)
Squadron in Battle of Britain; shot down and wounded. Returned to Canada to recruit in French
Canada and serve as CFI at St.Hubert.
June 1943 appointed to co-ordinate air defences in Gaspe and lower
St.Lawrence; appointed air attache to General Georges Vanier, December
1943. Killed at Rabat, Morocco in flying
accident, 8 May 1944 (Douglas A-24B).
Buried in North Africa.
*
* * * *
DESMARAIS, F/O Joseph Raymond Jean Marie
(J87112) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.425 Squadron (deceased) -
Award effective 12 January 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and
AFRO 471/45 dated 16 March 1945. Born
1921 in Sherbrooke, Quebec; home there; enlisted in Montreal, 10 June
1942. Trained at No.3 ITS (graduated 19
March 1943), No.11 EFTS (graduated 14 May 1943) and No.9 SFTS (graduated 3
September 1943). Commissioned 1944.
Killed on air operations, 18 December 1944 (Halifax MZ538); buried in UK.
One night in November 1944, Flying Officer
Desmarais piloted an aircraft in an attack on Bochum. Whilst over the target the aircraft sustained
much damage and one engine was set on fire.
In spite of this, Flying Officer Desmarais pressed home a most determined
attack. The fire in the burning engine
was extinguished but the propeller could not be feathered. Nevertheless this resolute pilot succeeded in
flying his damaged aircraft to base where he effected a safe landing. This officer set a fine example of skill,
coolness and determination in most difficult circumstances.
*
* * * *
DESROCHES, F/O Joseph Omer Leopold (J15820) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.425 Squadron (deceased) - Award effective 14 April 1943
as per London Gazette dated 1 June 1945 and AFRO 1219/45 dated 27 July
1945. Born 1919 in Montreal; home there;
enlisted there 22 June 1940. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 27 July 1940), No.2
AOS (graduated 23 November 1940), No.2 BGS (graduated 4 January 1941) and No.1
ANS (graduated 3 February 1941).
Commissioned 1942. Killed in
action 14/15 April 1943 (Wellington X3763).
This officer is an excellent navigator who
possesses exceptional courage and coolness, which he has demonstrated in many
emergencies. During a daylight attack on
Wilhelmshaven the aircraft in which he was flying was attacked and damaged by
enemy fighters. While on the way to the rear turret to assist the wounded
gunner, Flying Officer Desroches fell through the escape hatch but caught
himself on his elbows. After he was
assisted back into the aircraft he rendered first aid to the wounded, operated
the wireless and navigated the aircraft to the target and back to base. He has
performed his duties at all times in a thoroughly efficient manner and recently
applied to be allowed to continue on operations until his present captain and
crew completed their tour of duty.
Flying Officer Desroches has set a splendid example to the squadron.
NOTE: Public Record Office Air 2/8950 has
recommendation dated 18 March 1943 when he had flown 32 ½ sorties (182 hours 35 minutes); the sea search on 23 January 1943 was
counted as a half-sortie. The daylight raid on Wilhelmshaven mentioned in the
text was on 6 November 1942. One peculiar entry is a sortie listed for 13 May
1942 (Cologne); this is more likely to read 30 May 1942 and was likely
performed between regular tours. The
document gives his name as Joseph Olivier Leopold Desroches.
16 Sept 41 Le
Havre (5.40) 23 Nov 42 GARDENING (4.10)
10 Oct 41 Ostend
(5.30) 25 Nov 42 GARDENING (7.10)
31 Oct 41 Dunkirk
(3.20) 6 Dec 42 Mannheim (5.45)
7 Nov 41 Boulogne
(4.50) 7 Dec 42 GARDENING (5.00)
12 Nov 41 Hamburg
(5.25) 11 Dec 42 GARDENING (5.25)
8 Dec 41 Aachen
(4.15) 2 Jan 43 GARDENING (4.00)
28 Dec 41 Wilhelmshaven
(4.55) 23 Jan 43 Sea search (3.45)
6 Jan 42 Brest
(3.10) 26 Jan 43 Lorient (7.00)
9 Jan 42 Brest
(5.45) 3 Feb 43 Hamburg (6.20)
10 Jan 42 Wilhelmshaven
(6.25) 7 Feb 43 Lorient (6.15)
12 Jan 42 Hamburg
(6.40) 11 Feb 43 GARDENING (4.45)
17 Jan 42 Bremen
(6.00) 13 Feb 43 Lorient (6.40)
21 Jan 42 Hanover
(7.00) 16 Feb 43 Lorient (6.30)
13 May 42 Cologne
(6.10) 19 Feb 43 Wilhelmshaven (5.05)
6 Oct 42 Osnabruck
(6.25) 24 Feb 43 Wilhelmshaven (5.55)
13 Oct 42 Kiel
(6.25) 26 Feb 43 Cologne
6 Nov 42 Wilhelmshaven
(5.15)
Pilot Officer Desroches, Canadian, in the
Royal Canadian Air Force, has proven himself to be an excellent navigator who
possesses courage and exceptional coolness in emergency. This was demonstrated on a daylight attack
against Wilhelmshaven when the aircraft he was navigating was attacked and
damaged by enemy fighters. When he went
back to the rear turret to assist the wounded rear gunner, Pilot Officer
Desroches fell through the escape hatch but caught himself on his elbows. After he had been helped back into the
aircraft, he rendered first aid to wounded crew members, operated the wireless
and navigated the aircraft on to the target and then back to base.
On making application, Pilot Officer Desroches
was given permission to continue flying on operations until his present captain
and crew completed their normal tour of 30 sorties. Such a request exemplifies
further the courage and keenness of this officer.
The Officer Commanding, Station Dishforth,
added his comments on 20 March 1943:
Pilot Officer Desroches has taken part in
raids gainst some of the most heavily defended targets in enemy territory
including Osnabruck, Kiel and Hamburg.
Always he has carried out his duties in a thoroughly efficient
manner. He has a strong character which
couples with his unquestioned courage makes him an asset to the crew and
undoubtedly the right-hand man of his captain. I endorse the comments of the
Squadron Commander and recommend that Pilot Officer Desroches be awarded the
Distinguished Flying Cross.
Air Vice-Marshal G.E. Brookes, Air Officer
Commanding, No.6 Group, endorsed the recommendation on 29 March 1943.
*
* * * *
DESSERT, WO (now P/O) Leon Albert (R54943/C46828)
- Mention in Despatches - No.4 (BR) Squadron (deceased) - Award
effective 3 November 1944 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO
2479/44 dated 17 November 1944. Home in
New Westminster, British Columbia; enlisted in Montreal, 5 September 1940. Died 27 July 1944.
This warrant officer displayed exceptional
devotion to duty throughout his period of duty at this unit and throughout his
lengthy period of operational flying. He
was a skilful flight engineer, whose example and ability, both in the air and
on the ground, were reflected in the high standard of maintenance of this
unit. These outstanding qualities were
an inspiration to other flight engineers.
*
* * * *
DESTONIS, F/O Dene (J15901) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.53 Squadron - Award effective 11 August 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 22 August 1944 and AFRO 2231/44 dated 13 October
1944. Home in Ottawa or Montreal;
enlisted there 9 December 1940. Trained
at No.1 ITS (graduated 16 May 1941), No.6 AOS (graduated 31 August 1941), No.3
BGS (graduated 13 October 1941) and No.1 ANS (graduated 7 November 1941). Newsclipping says he flew at least 63 sorties
in air/sea rescue work before joining a Coastal Command patrol squadron. Same clipping suggests he was in No.407 Squadron.
This officer has been navigator and bomb aimer on three occasions
when his aircraft delivered attacks on enemy submarines. During an attack on a U-boat a second
submarine was observed in the vicinity.
Flying Officer Destonis by his quick appreciation of the situation and
prompt action enabled an attack to be made on both submarines. His coolness and resolution during all these
attacks and in the face of enemy fire have always been exemplary.
*
* * * *
DETENBECK, F/L Earl Vincent (C24754) - Commended
for Valuable Services - No.1 Central Flying School - Award effective 21
April 1945 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 802/45 dated 11
May 1945. Home in Ridgeway, Ontario;
enlisted Hamilton 8 January 1941.
This officer has over 2,000 instructional
hours to his credit. At all times he has
performed his duties in an outstanding and exemplary manner. For the past year as second in charge of a
visiting flight inspecting all schools employing staff pilots, every station
has been enthusiastic with the results of these visits. Flight Lieutenant Detenbeck has carried out
his work with a vigour and persistence far above that of Service requirements.
*
* * * *
DETWILLER, Sergeant (now P/O) Lloyd Fraser
(R58720/C22652) - Commended for Valuable Services - No.2 EFTS - Award
effective 28 May 1943 as per London Gazette of that date, Canada Gazette
dated 2 June 1943, and AFRO 1459/43 dated 30 July 1943. Home in Vancouver (BA, University of British
Columbia). Enlisted in Vancouver, 12 September 1040. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 16 November
1940), No.2 EFTS (graduated 21 January 1942), and No.6 SFTS (graduated 30
December 1942). Governor General's
Records (RG.7 Group 26, Volume 57, File 190-I) has citation. Flying time mentioned was as of February
1943.
Over a period of 13 months Sergeant
Detwiller's services as a Flying Instructor and later as a Flight Commander at
this unit have been of inestimable value to the war effort. His enthusiasm and cheerfulness, often in the
face of wearisome tasks, have been an inspiration to all. He has at all times displayed initiative of a
very high order. His total flying time
as instructor is 1,511 hours.
DETWILLER, F/L Lloyd Fraser (C22652) - Air
Force Cross - No.2 EFTS - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 82/46 dated 25 January 1946. NOTE: The following citation is for the AFC,
but it is accompanied by a note that as of February 1943 he had flown
1,511 hours as instructor.
This officer was employed as a flying
instructor during which his services were of inestimable value. His enthusiasm and cheerfulness in the face
of wearisome tasks were an inspiration to all; not once did his efficiency
flag. He displayed initiative of a high
order at all times.
*
* * * *
DEUTSCHER, F/L Joseph Charles (J22538) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.431 Squadron - Award effective 30 October 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 6 November 1945 and AFRO 155/46 dated 15 February 1946. Born 1922 in Odessa, Saskatchewan; home there;
enlisted Regina 2 May 1941. Trained at
No.2 ITS (graduated 3 August 1941), No.8 AOS (graduated 16 February 1942), No.4
BGS (graduated 28 March 1942) and No.2 ANS (graduated 3 July 1942). Commissioned July 1942. Became a priest adter the war; died in
Regina, 24 March 2000. No citation other than "completed...numerous
operations against the enemy in the course of which [he has] displayed the
utmost fortitude, courage and devotion to duty." DHist file 181.009 D.1941 (RG.24 Vol.20612)
has recommendation by W/C W.F. McKinnon dated 23 May 1945 when he had flown 45
sorties (270 hours eight minutes). First
tour was 27 sorties (139 hours 55 minutes), 4 April 1943 to 1 October
1943. Second tour was 18 sorties (130
hours 13 minutes), 4 February to 10 May 1945 including one "Exodus"
trip.
This officer as air bomber has completed two
tours of operations. Throughout his 44
sorties F/Lt. Deutscher has displayed an uncanny accuracy in his bombing
despite fierce enemy opposition. Calm at
all times this officer has shown unquestioned courage and outstanding zeal and
energy in the performance of his duties.
As Squadron Bombing Leader, F/Lt. Deutscher has displayed qualities of
leadership, sound judgement and initiative.
In recognition of this officer's complete devotion to duty I recommend
that he be awarded a non-immediate Distinguished Flying Cross.
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DEVERELL, Sergeant Guilford Ambrose (R84027) -
Mention in Despatches - Tholthorpe - Award effective 14 June 1945 as per
London Gazette of that date and AFRO 1600/45 dated 12 October 1945. Home in Mount Forrest, Ontario; enlisted
Hamilton, 10 December 1940. AFRO gives
unit only as "Overseas"; DHist file 181.009 D.1725 (PAC RG.24 Vol
20607) has list of MiDs this date with unit.
DHist file 181.009 D.1719 (PAC RG.24 Vol.20606) has recommendation by
A/C J.L. Hurley forwarded 3 February 1945 when his trade was given as
"Inst/Rep." (Instrument Repairs ?).
Enlisted 10 December 1940; had served 27 months in Canada, 22 months
overseas.
The above NCO is recommended for "Mention
in Despatches" in recognition of loyal and conscientious service both in
Africa and England. He has a high
appreciation of his duty toward his men both as to their personal welfare and
also their trade improvement. His loyalty
and co-operation in carrying out instructions can be depended upon at any time
and under trying conditions. The example
he sets in character and leadership should not go unrecorded.
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DEVERELL, FS William Albert (R52321) - British
Empire Medal - Station Lachine - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 82/46 dated 25 January 1946. Home in
Hamilton; enlisted there 22 October 1939.
This non-commissioned officer has earned,
through many months of whole-hearted devotion to duty, the sincere respect and
admiration of his own staff and the officers under whom he has worked. He has accepted responsibility beyond the
limits of his work and has consistently and voluntarily spent long hours above
the regular duty hours. The results of
his efforts have contributed to the general morale of the whole station and his
able leadership had never faltered.
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DEVINE, WO1 Charles Hugh (R6252) - Mention
in Despatches - No.2 Equipment Depot - Award effective 1 January 1946 as
per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 82/46 dated 25 January
1946. Enlisted in Renfrew, Ontario, 25
January 1940. Remained in postwar RCAF
and retired as a Wing Commander. Died in
Vancouver, 9 November 1982.
This airman has set a fine example of devotion
to duty in bringing his storage groups to the high standard attained at
present. His work at all times has been
painstaking and thorough. His
enthusiasm, conscientiousness and reliability have been an inspiration to all
with whom he has served.
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DEVINE, P/O Francis Joseph (J96985) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.433 Squadron - Award effective 3 October 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 2534/44 dated 24 November 1944. Born 1922 in
Thorold, Ontario; home there; enlisted Hamilton 7 January 1942. Trained at No.6 ITS (graduated 28 August
1942), No.7 EFTS (graduated 20 November 1942) and No.9 SFTS (graduated 6 April
1942). Commissioned 1944.
Pilot Officer Devine has completed very many
sorties against heavily defended targets in Germany. In July 1944 he was pilot of an aircraft
detailed to attack Hamburg. En route an
engine became unserviceable. Despite
intense anti-aircraft fire and enemy fighter opposition this officer continued
to the target and made a successful attack.
Pilot Officer Devine has at all times displayed fearlessness,
determination and devotion to duty.
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DEVINS, W/C Robert William (C2513) - Mention
in Despatches - Western Air Command Headquarters - Award effective 8 June
1944 as per London Gazette of that date. AFRO 1380/44 dated 30 June
1944. Born in New York; educated at
Regal Road Public School, Oakwood Collegiate and McMaster University. Accountant and agent for W.A. Curtis and
Company; enlisted in Toronto, 16 July 1940.
This officer has been largely responsible for
the smooth and efficient operation of the accounting procedure throughout the
Command. His knowledge and efficiency,
combined with his ability to co-operate whole heartedly with every branch of
the Service, have been a major factor in the excellent relations of the
accounting branch.
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DEVITT, F/O Robert (J19510) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.10 Squadron - Award effective 2 October 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 13 October 1944 and AFRO 2637/44 dated 8 December 1944. Born
1914 in Toronto; home there; enlisted there 13 January 1941. Trained at No.2 WS (graduated 17 August 1942
and No.3 BGS (graduated 19 March 1943).
Commissioned 1943.
This officer has participated in many sorties
as an air gunner since joining his squadron in August 1943. He quickly acquired a reputation for his
keenness to operate and engage the enemy.
On several occasions his aircraft has been attacked by enemy fighters,
but due to his accurate fire and prompt skilful directions to his pilot,
successful evasive action was taken and the enemy driven off. Flying Officer Devitt has displayed
commendable skill and gallantry and his example of devotion to duty has been of
a high order.
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DEWAN, F/L (now S/L) Dominic Joseph - Air
Force Cross - Overseas - Award effective 13 June 1946 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 726/46 dated 26 July 1946. Home in Ottawa; enlisted there 16 August
1940. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 6
December 1940), No.15 EFTS (graduated 29 March 1941) and No.11 SFTS (graduated
25 June 1941). Spent much time as a
staff pilot at an air armament school in UK; said to have "just bothered
everybody to get away from instructing".
Reported to be with an RCAF Spitfire squadron on train-busting duties
and flying escort to B-17s (May-June 1943) and on 19 April 1945 destroyed one
FW.190 (19 April 1945) while serving with No.412 Squadron). Died in Ottawa, 21
March 2002. It is not clear if his AFC was for duties with No.412 Squadron or
another unit after the war. No citation
in Canadian sources. Public Records
Centre Air 2/9670 has recommendation noting that he had flown 1,350 hours, 90
in past six months.
Squadron Leader Dewan joined his present
squadron in April 1943, and assumed command in May 1945. Throughout two tours of operational duty and
since the cessation of hostilities he has exhibited outstanding keenness for flying. In the concentrated air training programme
laid down for the occupational air forces, this officer has led his squadron
with marked efficiency and skill.
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DEWAR, P/O (now F/O) John William (J8821) - Mention
in Despatches - No.9 (BR) Squadron - Award effective 2 March 1943 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 513/43 dated 26 March 1943. Home in Brantford, Ontario. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 29 March
1941), No.10 EFTS (ceased training 13 April 1941), No.2 AOS (graduated 28 August
1941), No.5 BGS (graduated 13 October 1941) and No.1 CNS. Incident occurred on 3 January 1942 involving
death of AC2 I.A. MacDonald. Governor
General's Records (RG.7 Group 26 Volume 57, file 190-I, dossier 1) has a Minute
of the Privy Council dated 20 August 1942 with a detailed recommendation for
the Albert Medal. However, it was
subsequently concluded on 1 October 1942 that the RCAF had its own range of
honours and that the Albert Medal was not among them. As of 1 October 1942 the Deputy Minister of
National Defence for Air was suggesting that Dewar be recommended for a George
Medal. This clearly was not done.
One day, an aircraft tender with two crewmen
aboard was upset by an aircraft which was being taxied in bay waters. One of the crewmen of the tender, being
unable to swim, was unfortunately drowned.
Pilot Officer J.W. Dewar, the observer of the aircraft, realizing that
the other crewman of the tender was unable to save himself, dived fully clothed
into the cold water and managed to hold the crewman up until both were rescued
with extreme difficulty.
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DEWIS, F/L Marshall Woodworth (J10719) - Mention
in Despatches - No.11 (BR) Squadron - Award effective 7 July 1945 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1291/45 dated 10 August 1945. Home in Canmore, Alberta; enlisted Calgary
20 August 1941. Trained at No.4 ITS
(graduated 10 September 1941), No.2 AOS (graduated 2 January 1942), No.8 BGS
(graduated 14 February 1942) and No.1 ANS (graduated 19 March 1942).
Throughout his tour of operations on
anti-submarine patrols, Flight Lieutenant Dewis has shown outstanding devotion
to duty. His exceptional skill and
cheerfulness under all conditions have made him a valued crew member. Flight Lieutenant Dewis has been a constant
source of inspiration to all.
*
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