Source: http://rcafassociation.ca/uploads/airforce/2009/07/ALPHA-BA.2.html
Timestamp: 2017-03-30 12:40:13
Document Index: 181298534

Matched Legal Cases: ['art 17', 'art\n3', 'art 19', 'art\n25', 'art\n24', 'art\n26', 'art\n6', 'art 1']

BARBEAU, P/O Joseph Paul Ernest (J89679) - Distinguished Flying Cross -
BARBEAU, P/O Joseph Paul Ernest (J89679) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.425 Squadron - Award effective 15 March 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 27 March 1945 and AFRO 1085/45 dated 29 June 1945. Born 1911 in Ottawa; home there (educated
LaSalle Academy; labourer); enlisted there 10 June 1940. Trained at No.9 BGS (graduated 22 January
1943. Commissioned September 1944. Invested with medal at Government House, 12
November 1951. Photo PL-35999 is a portrait.
Pilot Officer Barbeau has consistently
displayed outstanding skill, courage and determination when engaged on many
missions against heavily defended targets. On one occasion in November 1944 he was rear gunner in an aircraft
detailed to attack Oberhausen. Many
enemy aircraft were sighted. Pilot
Officer Barbeau gave his pilot excellent evasive instructions and by his
accurate fire hit and damaged one of the hostile aircraft. This officer has a splendid record both in
the air and on the ground. His devotion
to duty has always been most noteworthy.
BARBER, FS Cyril Abram (R191683) - Distinguished
Flying Medal - No.434 Squadron - Award effective 5 February 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 16 February 1945 and AFRO 625/45 dated 13 April 1945. Home in Woodstock, Ontario; enlisted 15
September 1942. Trained at No.4 ITS,
No.8 BGS (graduated 15 October 1943) and No.2 AOS (graduated 26 November
1943). Recommended when he had flown
four sorties (18 hours 45 minutes), 23 October to 1 November 1944. In crew of
WO C.Ferris. Incident was on 1 November
1944. Invested with medal 15 April 1948.
In November 1944, during an attack on
Oberhausen, Flight Sergeant Barber's aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire
while approaching the target area. The
wireless operator was killed. The
navigator and engineer were slightly injured and Flight Sergeant Barber was
severely wounded in the head. Despite
his injuries he pressed home the attack with great tenacity and bombed the
target successfully with damaged equipment. Flight Sergeant Barber has consistently displayed skill, devotion to
duty and gallantry of a high order.
BARBER, F/O James Donald (J23822) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.101 Squadron - Award effective 5 February 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 16 February 1945 and AFRO 563/45 dated 29 March 1945. Born 1919 in Spirit River, Alberta. Home in Edmonton; enlisted there 4 January
1942. Trained at No.5 ITS (graduated 20
June 1942), No.4 EFTS (graduated 9 October 1942) and No.13 SFTS (graduated 19
February 1943). Commissioned 1943. Invested with medal June 1946. No citation other than
2/8830 has recommendation dated 10 November 1944 when he had flown 32 sorties
(162 hours 20 minutes), 20 July to 4 November 1944.
20 Jul 44 Courtrai 16 Sep 44 Leeuwarden
24 Jul 44 Stuttgart 17 Sep 44 Westkapelle
25 Jul 44 Wanne
Eickel 26 Sep 44 Karlsruhe
12 Aug 44 Russelsheim 5 Oct 44 Saarbrucken
15 Aug 44 Volkel 7 Oct 44 Emmerich
16 Aug 44 Kiel 11 Oct
44 Frederick Hendrik
18 Aug 44 Ghent/Terneuzen 14 Oct 44 Duisburg
29 Aug 44 Stettin 14 Oct 44 Duisburg
31 Aug 44 St.Riquier 19 Oct 44 Stuttgart
3 Sept 44 Gilze-Rijen 23 Oct 44 Essen
Havre (bombs 25 Oct 44 Essen
brought back) 28
Havre (bombs 28 Oct 44 Domburg
brought back) 30
Havre 31
11 Sep 44 Darmstadt 2 Nov 44 Dusseldorf
12 Sep 44 Frankfurt 4 Nov 44 Bochum
Flying Officer Barber, a Canadian, has
recently completed a highly successful tour of operations comprising 32 sorties
against a variety of targets both in Germany and in support of our invasion
A captain of outstanding ability, this officer
refuses to be daunted however aggressive the defence. His grim determination and magnificent
leadership have inspired his crew to achieve excellent results on every
It is recommended that Flying Officer Barker's
high courage, devotion to duty and fine record be recognized by an award of the
BARBER, F/O Truman Verdun (J86279) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.408 Squadron - Award effective 10 May 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 22 May 1945 and AFRO 1147/45 dated 13 July 1945. Born 1921 in Toronto; home there (fruit
clerk); enlisted there 9 October 1940. Trained at No.6 ITS (graduated 19 March 1943), No.12 EFTS (graduated 15
May 1943) and No.9 SFTS (graduated 3 September 1943). Commissioned 1944. Invested with medal in Toronto, 30 November
duty". DHist file 181.009 D.1515
(RG.24 Vol.20600) has recommendation dated 1 January 1945 when he had completed
32 sorties (165 hours 15 minutes), 23 June to 26 November 1944.
Pilot Officer Barber has completed a
successful operational tour as pilot on heavy bombers in a most exemplary
manner. He has on many occasions
attacked successfully such heavily defended targets as Essen, Duisburg, Kiel
and Cologne. He has at all times shown a
cheerful disregard for any defences the enemy had to offer and at all times
pressed home his attacks, returning with excellent photographs of the targets
This officer's fine operational record and his
outstanding service to the squadron are worthy of the highest praise, and I
therefore recommend that he be awarded the Non-Immediate Distinguished Flying
BARBER, P/O William Paul (J89012) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.102 Squadron - Award effective 15 March 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 27 March 1945 and AFRO 1085/45 dated 29 June 1945. Born 1922 in Toronto; home there (student);
enlisted there 18 September 1942. Trained at No.3 ITS (graduated 11 June 1943) and No.9 BGS (graduated 3
September 1943). Commissioned August
1944. Invested with medal 18 October 1947. Photo PL-35153 is a portrait.
This officer is a skilful and courageous
gunner who has won the complete confidence of his crew. On one occasion in July 1944, on the return
flight from a mission against Stuttgart, Pilot Officer Barber's aircraft was
attacked by a Junkers 88 and severe damage was sustained. By his accurate fire this officer hit the
enemy aircraft repeatedly and probably destroyed it. Pilot Officer Barber's enthusiasm and
devotion to duty at all times have been most praiseworthy.
BARBOUR, P/O Douglas (J87609) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.78 Squadron - Award effective 5 February 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 16 February 1945 and AFRO 563/45 dated 29 March 1945. Born 1918 in Yorkton, Saskatchewan; home
there (office clerk); enlisted in Regina, 28 March 1942. Trained at No.7 ITS (graduated 6 November
1942), No.5 BGS (graduated 15 May 1943) and No.1 CNS (graduated 25 June
1943). Commissioned 1944. Invested with medal 18 June 1949. No citation other than
2/8831 has recommendation dated 16 November 1944 when he had flown 39 sorties
(163 hours 45 minutes).
(4.41) 12 Jul 44 Thiverny (3.52)
(3.55) 17 Jul 44 Caen H.2 (3.36)
(6.32) 18 Jul 44 Acquet (4.04)
(3.55) 20 Jul 44 Bottrop (2.45)
(3.52) S.I.
(3.11) 1 Aug 44 Trouville (3.25)
(4.50) 3 Aug 44 Bois de Cassan (3.52)
(5.11) 5 Aug 44 Foret de Nieppe (2.52)
(4.42) 9 Aug 44 Foret de Mormal (3.39)
(4.11) 12
Aug 44 Brunswick (5.44)
(5.19) 14 Aug 44 Falaise (3.32)
16 Jun 44 Domleger
(3.25) 15 Aug 44 Tirlemont (3.46)
(1.53) 16
Aug 44 GARDENING (5.20)
rudder damaged 18
Aug 44 Sterkrade (4.34)
25 Jun 44 Montorgueil
(3.36) 25 Aug 44 Watten (3.12)
Candon (3.26) 26 Aug 44 Homberg (4.00)
(5.45) 10 Sep 44 Le Havre (3.31)
l'Hey (4.08) 12 Sep 44 Scholven Duer (4.00)
l'Hey (3.47) 15 Sep 44 Kiel (4.50)
(3.26) 23 Sep 44 Neuss (5.00)
8 July 44 Chateau
Bernapre (3.33) 25 Sep 44 Calais (3.15)
operational tour consisting of 39 sorties (126 points) involving a total of 163
hours. He has been a member of one of
our best crews and much of their success can be attributed to his efforts. His photographic record proves that he has
always pressed home his attacks, often in the face of considerable
opposition. For his devotion to duty and
coolness in the face of the enemy he is strongly recommended for the award of
BARBOUR, FS Jean Muriel (W314244) - British
Empire Medal - AFHQ - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 82/46 dated 25 January 1946. From Campbellton, New Brunswick. Enlisted in Ottawa, 1 October 1943. Medal presented 21 February 1948.
This non-commissioned officer has been
associated with the Records Office for almost six years and in various
capacities has played an important part in the training and supervision of a
staff both civilian and service, that was continually expanding. In carrying out these duties she has
displayed outstanding ability to apply qualities of leadership and personnel
psychology far beyond that which could normally be expected. By her personal example and capacity to
produce exceptional results, she has at all times inspired staff under her
control with enthusiasm and a high productive capacity.
BARCLAY, F/L John Lyman (J10394) - Commended
for Valuable Services - No.11 SFTS - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 82/46 dated 25 January 1946. Home in
Edmonton, Alberta; enlisted there 21 June 1940. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 18 August 1940), No.5 EFTS (graduated 10
November 1940), and No.4 SFTS (graduated 28 January 1941). Photo PL-44247 shows a F/L J.L. Barclay of
Edmonton with F/O R.A. Tuttle of Calgary, taken in No.418 Squadron, 29 May
1945. It is uncertain whether the
Barclay of the citation and of the photograph are the same man or two different
This officer is an outstanding pilot who has
been employed as a Flying Instructor since the beginning of the Air Training
Plan. A hard working, efficient and
capable Flying Instructor, he has set a high standard in flying instruction in
BARICHELLO, F/O Raymond James Eugene (J20053)
- Air Force Cross - No.1 GRS (since moved to No.115 Squadron) - Award
effective 8 June 1944 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO
Murrayville, British Columbia; educated there, Langley High School and
Vancouver Technical School. Enlisted in
Vancouver, 13 August 1941. Trained at
No.4 ITS (graduated 27 March 1942), No.5 EFTS (graduated 3 July 1942) and No.7
SFTS (wings 23 October 1942). Reported
to have flown 1,107.20 hours to date, 848 hours as staff pilot, 328.35 hours in
previous six months. Medal presented 19
This officer has flown many hours as a staff
pilot in the past year and has performed his rather tedious task with
cheerfulness and exceptional ability. Recently this officer displayed unusual gallantry when he dropped his
dinghy to a crashed aircraft in the Gulf of St.Lawrence, knowing that his own
two engines were running badly and liable to fail at any moment. He barely
managed to return to his base. This
officer's record as a staff pilot has been of a very high standard.
BARKER, W/C Anthony (J6807) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.418 Squadron - Award effective 9 January 1945 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 471/45 dated 16 March 1945. Born 1919 in Todmorden, Yorkshire; home
there but attending Yale University before the war. Enlisted in Ottawa, 25 November 1940. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 29 March
1941), No.2 EFTS (graduated 28 May 1941)
and No.10 SFTS (graduated 8 August 1941). Commissioned 1941. Medal
presented 10 July 1945. Photo PL-7677
shows him talking to S/L R.J. Bennell, 22 May 1942.
This officer has displayed high qualities of
skill, courage and resolution. He is in
command of the squadron which has inflicted much loss on the enemy, having
destroyed many enemy aircraft. Numerous
successful attacks have also been made on enemy locomotives. mechanical
transport and other targets on the ground. By his great skill and leadership, Wing Commander Barker has played a
worthy part in the success achieved.
BARKER, F/L John Morrell (J24401) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.432 Squadron - Award effective 2 October 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 13 October 1944 and AFRO 2637/44 dated 8 December 1944. Born 1920 in Glenboro, Manitoba; home there;
enlisted Winnipeg 4 June 1940. Trained
at No.3 ITS (graduated 3 July 1942), No.4 EFTS (graduated 9 October 1942) and
No.9 SFTS (graduated 12 March 1943). Commissioned 1943. Medal
presented 9 April 1949. No citation
181.009 D.5557 (RG.24 Vol.20668) has recommendation undated (about 30 July
1944) when he had flown 32 sorties (159 hours 45 minutes), 24 February to 20
July 1944. Photo PL-31568 shows FS E.F.
McCallum (air gunner, Woodstock, New Brunswick) and F/L J.M. Barker.
This officer has shown an unconquerable spirit
of determination to achieve his objective. On thirty-two trips he has failed to bomb his target twice and this was
due to engine trouble. Many of these
trips have been over heavily defended targets such as Augsburg, Stuttgart,
Frankfurt, Karlsruhe and Dusseldorf, and his coolness and unusual initiative
have won the respect of his crew and the whole squadron. For his exceptional qualities of leadership,
for his coolness in the face of danger, for his spirit of determination and
devotion to duty, this officer is strongly recommended for the award of the
BARKER, F/O Norman George (J25692) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.103 Squadron - Award effective 2 October 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 13 October 1944 and AFRO 2637/44 dated 8 December 1944. Born 1915 in Toronto; home there (artist);
enlisted there 10 April 1942. Trained at
No.4 BGS (graduated 5 March 1943) and No.9 AOS (graduated 29 April 1943). Medal sent by registered mail May 1955.
Postwar he worked for Famous Players Theatres. Died in Missiisauga (Toronto), 21 November 2000. No citation other than
2/9026 has recommendation dated 14 July 1944 when he had flown 27 2/3 sorties
(161 hours 40 minutes), 15 March to 22 June 1944. Photo PL-35872 is a portrait.
25 Feb 44 Augsburg 12 May 44 GARDENING
15 Mar 44 Stuttgart 19 May 44 Orleans
18 Mar 44 Frankfurt 21 May 44 Duisburg
22 Mar 44 Frankfurt 22 May 44 Dortmund
24 Mar 44 Berlin 24 May 44 Aachen
9 Apr 44 GARDENING 27 May 44 Aachen
10 Apr 44 Aulnoye 9 June 44 Flers
18 Apr 44 Rouen 12 June 44 Gelsenkirchen
20 Apr 44 Cologne 14 June 44 Le Havre
22 Apr 44 Dusseldorf 16 June 44 Sterkrade
23 Apr 44 GARDENING 22 June 44 Calais
3 May 44 Mailly
le Camp 23 June 44 Saintes
6 May 44 Aubigne
Ragan 24 June 44 Flers
10 May 44 Mardyck 28 June 44 Chateaux
11 May 44 GARDENING Flying Officer Barker a Canadian, was posted
to No.103 Squadron on 5th February 1944, since when he has completed 27 2/3
sorties totalling 161.40 hours. Included
in these missions are many attacks on industrial targets in the Ruhr, also oil
targets, railway marshalling yards and coastal batteries on the French coast in
support of the invasion forces.
Throughout the whole of his time in the
squadron this officer has constantly displayed an intense enthusiasm for his
job, which he has ever carried out with thoroughness and outstanding
efficiency. In spite of very heavy
opposition on numerous occasions both by flak and fighters, this officer never
wavered from the task in hand, not in his grim determination to bomb the
It is strongly recommended that this splendid
offensive spirit and cheerful devotion to duty should be recognized by the
BARKER, F/L Robert Bruce (J5983) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.412 Squadron - Award effective 3 September 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 14 September 1945 and AFRO 1672/45 dated 2 November
1945. Born 4 December 1921 in
Vancouver. Enlisted there 13 August
January 1941), No.16 EFTS (graduated 28 March 1941) and No.11 SFTS (graduated 4
July 1941; wings on 25 June 1941. Instructed at No.39 SFTS (28 November 1941 to 30 September 1942), No.37
SFTS (30 September to 9 November 1942) and No.7 SFTS (11 November 1942 to 12
March 1943). Attended No.1 OTU
(Bagotville), 13 March to 15 June 1943; with No.130 Squadron, 17 June 1943 to
15 March 1944. Arrived in UK, 2 June
1944. Further trained at No.57 OTU (27
June to 13 October 1944). Served with
No.442 (30 October 1944 to 17 March 1945) and No.412 Squadron (18 March to 7
June 1945). Returned to Canada on 7
August 1945. Medal presented 14 May
1948. Remained in RCAF Auxiliary after
war, rising to Group Captain before retiring, 1 September 1961. Awarded Queens Coronation medal, 23 October
1953 when a Wing Commander with No.19 Wing (Auxiliary). Aerial victories as follows: 8 February 1945, one Ju.87 destroyed; 25
February 1945, two Bf.109s destroyed plus one Bf.109 damaged; 30 April
1945, one Bf.109 destroyed. Photo
PL-57206 is a formal portrait taken 1952.
Flight Lieutenant Barker has taken part in
numerous sorties against the enemy. He
has destroyed four enemy aircraft in aerial combat and damaged a further
two. On several sorties he has attacked
enemy lines of communication with excellent results. Throughout his tour of operations Flight
Lieutenant Barker has proved himself to be a resolute and determined fighter
and has at all times shown outstanding courage in the face of the enemy.
BARKER, Sergeant Ronald Rogerson (R192594) - British
Empire Medal - No.120 Squadron (RCAF) - Award effective 5 May 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1133/44 dated 26 May 1944. Trained at No.5 BGS and No.3 WS. Incident took place at Port Alice, in
Norseman 695 (recorded as being on strength of No.116 Squadron), and
notwithstanding the citation the pilot (WO2 J.J. Eccles) died of his injuries;
three others were also killed; Barker was the sole survivor. Wireless Air Gunner. DHist file 181.009 D.1636 (RG.24 Vol.20604)
has recommendation for an AFM dated 11 February 1944; he had flown 150 hours 30
minutes to date (149 hours 50 minutes in previous six months), including two
sorties (12 hours 25 minutes); WACHQ converted the recommendation to one for an
immediate BEM, 17 February 1944. Volume 3
of this file has correspondence relating to civilians who assisted in the
rescue; was a GM or any other decoration awarded to Mr. A.L. Morris-Read ?
This NCO showed remarkable courage and daring,
with total disregard for his personal safety, when, on February 4th last, after
being thrown from a crashed aircraft which immediately caught fire, he rushed
into the flames in an endeavour to save the life of the pilot who was stunned
by the impact. After his first attempt
he was seriously burned and driven back by the flames. His courageous initiative instigated rescue
action by the civilian onlookers with the result that the pilot was rescued
from burning to death.
BARKS, WO1 John Brooks (Can 2052) - Member,
Order of the British Empire - No.17 Equipment Depot - Award effective 1
January 1946. Enlisted in Ottawa, 30
This Warrant Officer is in charge of the
Instrument Repair Section at No.17 Equipment Depot and has proved to be
exceptional as an organizer and disciplinarian and most efficient in his
specialized trade. Warrant Officer Barks
has shown great initiative and his continuous study and forethought has proved
an incentive to those working under him. He commands the respect of all ranks and his efforts have contributed
greatly to the efficient operation of his section.
BARLOW, F/O John Thomas (J85385) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.429 Squadron - Award effective 19 December 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 293/45 dated 16 February 1945. Born 1914 in Liverpool, England; home in
Paris, Ontario; enlisted Hamilton, 11 June 1942. Trained at No.3 ITS (graduated 4 December
1942), No.4 EFTS (graduated 5 March 1943) and No.13 SFTS (graduated 9 July
1943). Commissioned 1944. Repatriated December 1944. Co-pilot of a
Dakota which flew 4,800 pounds of penecillin to Warsaw, January 1946. One night in October 1944, this officer
piloted an aircraft detailed to attack Essen. On the outward flight the port inner engine failed. Some height was lost but Flying Officer
Barlow went on to the target which he bombed from a much lower altitude than
planned. On the return flight the
hydraulic system became defective and the undercarriage dropped to the down
position. The aircraft gradually lost
height but Flying Officer Barlow flew safely to base and effected a masterly
landing. This officer has completed a
large number of sorties and throughout has displayed a high standard of skill,
keenness and resolution.
BARLOW, Sergeant Kenneth Leo (R62702) - Mention
in Despatches - No.31 Squadron - Award effective 14 January 1944 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 874/44 dated 21 April 1944. Born 10 December 1920. Home in Sherbrooke, Quebec; served in 35th Field Battery, Royal Canadian Artillery, 1939; enlisted in RCAF, Sherbrooke, 20 July 1940. Trained at No.2 WS (graduated 28 April 1941) and No.4 BGS, Fingal (graduated 24 May 1941). To Halifax, 27 May 1941; to overseas, 16 June 1941; arrived in Britain 1 July 1941; to No.1 Signal School, 7 July 1941; to No.23 OTU, 23 September 1941; with No.99 Squadron, 6 November 1941 to either 20 April or 17 Junr 1943; with No.31 Squadron, 20 April or 17 June 1943 to May 1944; embarked for Britain, 6 June 1944; arrived in Britain, 8 July 1944; repatriated to Canada, 29 August 1944; to No.6 OTU, Comox, 10 October 1944. He had been promoted Flight Sergeant on 1 December 1941, Warrant Officer 2nd Class on 1 November 1942 and Warrant Officer 1st Class, 1 May 1943. Commissioned 25 January 1945 (J51766). To No.5 Release Centre, 6 November 1945; released 9 November 1945. NOTE: DHist award card gives name and number as BARLEW (R67203) but microfilmed listing of personnel spells it as BARLOW with number as R62702.
Although no recommendation can be found for his award, the following are relevant to his career. He began his operational career with No.99 Squadron and flew 50 operational hours with them before the unit went to India. He completed his tour with No.99 (31 sorties, 218 hours 40 minutes), then went directly to No.31 Squadron and completed a second tour. On a form dated 7 August 1944 (on repatriation) he reported having flown 960 hours overseas (400 on Wellingtons, 560 on Dakotas) of which 585 were operational hours (112 sorties). It would appear that 81 sorties were with No.31 Squadron on supply drops in Burma and China. His final sortie had been flown on 25 April 1944.
On 27 October 1944, assessing his experience, S/L J.D.D. Campbell (Western Air Command) wrote:
This Warrant Officer has done a tour of operations on Wellingtons as gunner and a tour with Transport Command in India, dropping supplies. During the tour with Transport Command, he was hardly ever employed as Wireless Operator, his duties consisting entirely of the actual throwing out of the supplies.
BARLOW, FS Robert William (R50643) - Mention
in Despatches - Station Tofino - Award effective 28 May 1943 as per London
1459/43 dated 30 July 1943. Formerly of
Winnipeg and University of Saskatchewan. Enlisted in Vancouver, 21 November 1939. Died in Comox, British Columbia, 29 May 1997, aged 80.
Flight Sergeant Barlow, a member of the
Security Guard, has been outstanding for his conscientious and efficient work
since joining this station. In the face
of very trying conditions this NCO, by a method of intensive training which he
instigated, has successfully furthered the training of other Security Guard
personnel. His devotion to duty and
cheerful acceptance of hardships have been an inspiring example. While at
Boundary Bay this NCO was instrumental in saving another NCO from drowning.
BARLOW, FS Roy Haily (Can 4806) - British
Empire Medal - No.8 Bombing and Gunnery School - Award effective 28 May
July 1943. Former garage operator,
Halbrite, Saskatchewan. Enlisted in
Regina, 11 September 1939. Medal
presented 20 March 1944.
Flight Sergeant Barlow is an outstanding NCO
who, through his energy and initiative, has raised his section to a high degree
of efficiency. He performs all duties in
a very conscientious manner and readily accepts responsibility. Under his supervision the Workshops of this
unit, an important factor in the maintenance of aircraft serviceability, have
functioned most satisfactorily.
BARNES, FS Floyd Stanley (R50145) - British
Empire Medal - No.1 Air Command Headquarters - Award effective 13 June 1946
1946. Enlisted in Halifax, 27 January
Flight Sergeant Barnes has been in charge of
the Command Administrative Unit Central Registry since its inception. His work has been most valuable to the
Service both during the amalgamation of the Commands and the ensuing
period. He has been responsible for the
setting up and administering of the excellent Central registry system which has
produced an output of work of a uniformly high standard over a long period of
intense effort. He has displayed marked
initiative and a complete knowledge of his work. By his ready willingness to work long hours
of overtime and by his intense devotion to duty at all times, he has set an outstanding
example to those working under him. The
marked success of the Command Administrative Unit Central Registry undoubtedly
is due in large part to the high standard of efficiency of this
BARNES, Sergeant Harry William (R54057) - Mention
in Despatches - No.425 Squadron (No.62 Base in AFRO) - Award effective 1
March 1945. Home in Hull, Quebec. Enlisted in Ottawa 21 June 1940. No citation in AFRO. DHist file 181.009 D.1919 (PAC RG.24
Vol.20606) has recommendation, forwarded 31 July 1944, when he was in
"B" Flight. Recommendation
noted he had served in Canada 10 months, overseas three years and three months
including six months in North Africa. Described as "a fitter/armourer of outstanding ability...A veteran
tradesman of No.425 Squadron, he has performed his duties in an outstanding
manner and can be relied upon to complete successfully even the most difficult
BARNES, F/L Lloyd Gordon (J16228) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.109 Squadron - Award effective 8 September 1945 as per London
1945. Born 1918 in Burdett, Alberta;
home in Brooks, Alberta (purchasing agent); enlisted in Calgary, 16 June
1941. Trained at No.4 ITS (graduated 10
September 1941), No.16 EFTS (graduated 7 November 1941) and No.15 SFTS
(graduated 27 February 1942). Commissioned December 1942. Medal
sent by registered mail 7 June 1950. No
and devotion to duty." Public Records Office Air 2//8750 has recommendation
dated 18 April 1945 when he had flown 57 sorties (174 hours), 25 August 1944 to
denotes Marking sortie
25 Aug 44 Deelen
airfield 30 Oct 44 Cologne*
26 Aug 44 Deelen
airfield 1 Nov 44 Homberg*
28 Aug 44 Le
Culot 6
Nov 44 Gelsenkirchen*
29 Aug 44 Le
Nov 44 Homberg
31 Aug 44 Leverkusen 21 Nov 44 Castrop Rauxel*
4 Sept 44 Steenwijk
airfield 27 Nov 44 Hallendorf
5 Sept 44 Steenwijk
airfield 29 Nov 44 Dortmund*
Havre* 30
Nov 44 Duisburg*
7 Sept 44 Steenwijk
airfield 2 Dec 44 Hagen*
Havre* 4 Dec
44 Hagen*
Rauxel* 5 Dec 44 Soest*
15 Sep 44 Rheine 1 Jan 45 Dortmund*
17 Sep 44 Boulogne* 5 Jan 45 Castrop Rauxel
17 Sep 44 Biggerkerke* 28 Feb 45 Nuremburg
20 Sep 44 Calais* 2 Mar 45 Cologne
25 Sep 44 Calais* 3 Mar 45 Weirzburg*
26 Sep 44 Calais* 5 Mar 45 Gelsenkirchen*
5 Oct 44 Saarbrucken 6 Mar 45 Wesel
6 Oct 44 Saarbrucken 8 Mar 45 Kassel*
9 Oct 44 Bochum* 11 Mar 45 Essen*
Frederick* 12 Mar 45 Dortmund*
12 Oct 44 Koblenz 13 Mar 45 Herne*
14 Oct 44 Duisburg* 22 Mar 45 Dulmen*
14 Oct 44 Duisburg* 23 Mar 45 Wesel*
18 Oct 44 Pforzheim 25 Mar 45 Hanover*
23 Oct 44 Essen* 31 Mar 45 Hamburg*
27 Oct 44 Pforzheim 3 Apr 45 Nordhausen*
28 Oct 44 Walcheren* 4 Apr 45 Lutzkendorf*
29 Oct 44 Walcheren* 9 Apr 45 Berlin*
Flight Lieutenant L.G. Barnes has finished a
full tour on Mosquito aircraft. He has
been engaged during this period on Pathfinder duties and has acquitted himself
of them most creditably. Of his total of
57 sorties, forty were as a target marker, mostly on German industrial
objectives. His excellent results and
steady flying enabled him to be chosen for marking tactical targets in support
Flight Lieutenant Barnes has done a most
useful tour of operations and is strongly recommended for the award of the
BARNETT, Sergeant Allen Harry (R100638) - Mention
in Despatches - No.83 Group (AFRO gives "Overseas" as a unit) - Award effective
1 January 1946 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 155/46 dated 15
February 1946. Born 31 August 1914. Home in Toronto; enlisted there 3 April
1941 as Radio Mechanic. Trained in Toronto; to "Y" Depot, Halifax, 21 May
1941; promoted AC1, 21 July 1941 and LAC, 31 August 1941; arrived in Britain,
1 September 1941. To No.1 Radio School, 21 February 1942. To No.79 Wing,
6 May 1942. Reclassified Radar Mechanic, 21 May 1942. Promoted Corporal,
1 July 1942.. To No.21 Service Unit, 6 February 1943. Promoted Sergeant,
1 April 1943. To Station Chipwell, 6 June 1943; to No.84 Group, 14 October
1943; to No.6095 LWS, 15 November 1943; to No.21 STU, 14 April 1944; to No.5320
MSSU, 1 June 1944; to No.5321 Unit, No.83 Group, 28 November 1944; repatriated
to Canada, 6 June 1945; released 28 September 1945. Served in RCAF and Canadian
Forces, 1 October 1968 to 17 March 1970. Certificate forwarded to Northwest
Air Command, 27 October 1948.
BARNETT, F/L Campbell Devere (J5289) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.107 Squadron - Award effective 25 September 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 2 October 1945 and AFRO 1822/45 dated 7 December 1945. Born 1915 in Surrey, New Bruswick; home in
Hillsboro, Albert County, New Brunswick,; enlisted in Moncton, 14 August
1940. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 29
November 1940), No.4 EFTS (graduated 28
January 1941) and No.8 SFTS (graduated 16 May 1941). Commissioned May 1941. Medal presented 1 December 1948.
operational duty during which he has inflicted considerable damage on the
enemy's road and rail transport bridges and military installations. A skilful pilot, he has never let either
adverse weather or enemy opposition deter him from completing his mission.
NOTE: Public Records Office Air 2/9132 has
original recommendation dated 6 June 1945 when he had flown 100 sorties (337
hours eleven minutes.
Flight Lieutenant Barnett recently completed
his 26th operational sortie with No.107 Squadron. This is his second tour of operations. His first tour was completed with No.53
Squadron between 12 April 1942 and 3 March 1943 when he carried out 74 sorties
on Hudson aircraft with Coastal Command.
He has proved himself to be an exceptionally
fine operational pilot. Adverse weather
conditions or intense enemy opposition has never prevented him from doing his
utmost to find targets and to press home his attacks with exemplary
determination. Here are some examples of
the very fine results obtained during the operations carried out with this
On the 22nd of February 1945 he took part in
the daylight operation "Clarion" against enemy road and rail
transportation. A train of seven to
eight coaches was located at S.9316 and a near miss obtained with a bomb. He
followed this with cannon attacks and strikes were observed on the locomotive
and first coach. At S.1794 twenty
scattered trucks were found in a marshalling yard. A bombing attack resulted in a direct hit on
the tracks. A bridge over the railway
was damaged as a result of further strafing attacks.
On the night of 24th March 1945 railway tracks
at V.6013 were bombed and a direct hit obtained on them. Two showers of sparks followed this attack. Later in the same patrol a small fire and
some lights in a town at A.7394 were attacked with cannons and strikes
Another railway line was bombed at Y.3800 on
te night of the 30th of March 1945. One
burst was seen close to the tracks and to a large building; sparks and debris
were observed as a result of this bomb burst. A long train was located at Y.3414 and strikes obtained on the
locomotive, followed by an explosion. Two further targets were found on this same night; a strafing attack was
made on a convoy of three MET at Y.3507 and floodlights beside a canal at
X.9633 were doused.
Two nights later, on the 1st of April 1945, a
railway junction at C.8141 was bombed but owing to adverse weather conditions
the results could not be seen. Despite
this bad weather a small stationary train was located at C.9517. Strafing attacks resulted in strikes on the
locomotive and on the whole length of the train.
Flight Lieutenant Barnett possesses great
determination and devotion to duty and he invariably faced danger with
exemplary coolness. His fine offensive
spirit and outstanding flying skill have proved to be an invaluable example to
the less experienced members of the squadron.
These qualities and the excellence of his
operational record makes him well worthy of the award of the Distinguished
Flying Cross for which I strongly recommend him.
BARNETT, F/O Reginald Victor Macauley (J25035)
- Distinguished Flying Cross - No.100 Squadron - Award effective 1
December 1944 as per London Gazette dated 8 December 1944 and AFRO
337/45 dated 23 February 1945. Born 1923
in Newcastle-on-Tyne; home in Toronto (ex-COTC); enlisted there 7 May
December 1942) and No.1 AOS (graduated 2 April 1943). Commissioned 1943. Medal presented in Toronto
30 November 1949. No citation other than
air operations against the enemy." Public Records Office Air 2/8881 has recommendation dated 15 August 1944
when he had flown 30 sorties (141 hours), 21 May to 31 July 1944.
21 May 44 Duisburg 30 Jun 44 Vierzon
22 May 44 Dortmund 2 July 44 Oisemont*
28 May 44 Eu 5
July 44 Dijon
31 May 44 Tergnier 6 July 44 Foret du Croc*
2 June 44 Berneval 7 July 44 Caen
5 June 44 Caisbecq 12 Jul 44 Tours
6 June 44 Vire 14 Jul
44 Revigny
7 June 44 Cerisy 18 Jul 44 Sannerville*
10 Jun 44 Acheres 18 Jul 44 Scholven
11 Jun 44 Evreux 23 Jul 44 Kiel
22 Jun 44 Rheims 25 Jul 44 Coquereaux*
24 Jun 44 Hayons* 25 Jul 44 Stuttgart
25 Jun 44 Ligescourt* 30 Jul 44 Battle area*
27 Jun 44 Vaires 31 Jul 44 Foret de Nieppe
Flying Officer Barnett, a Canadian officer,
has now completed his first tour of operations totalling 30 sorties. This officer has shown outstanding eagerness
and zeal in engaging the enemy. His
courage, skill and resource as a navigator are of the highest standard and the
energetic and devoted attention he ha shown to his responsible work, undeterred
by enemy opposition has ensured the success of all his missions. His coolness in action and cheerful courage
have been combined with a strong offensive spirit and have contributed to a
very high standard of morale in his crew. Flying Officer Barnett fully deserves the award of the Distinguished
BARNHART, WO Clifford Pierson (R52558) - Mention
in Despatches - No.429 Squadron (AFRO gives units as No.63 Base) - Award
379/45 dated 2 March 1945. Home in
Niagara Falls, Ontario; enlisted there 13 November 1939; posted overseas 8
April 1943. DHist file 181.009 D.2619
(RG.24 Vol.20628) has recommendation for an MBE dated 28 August 1944.
This warrant officer in his capacity as
warrant officer in charge of aircraft servicing has displayed exceptional
initiative, determination and devotion to duty. In order to maintain maximum serviceability of
aircraft he has worked extraordinarily long hours for days in succession, often
not going to his quarters to sleep for several days. He is outstanding in his ground crew duties
and is possessed with boundless energy and tact. In the early stages of the war he flew 1,200
hours as air gunner-fitter on coastal patrols where besides flying long hours
he working untiringly in maintaining his aircraft. His squadron has a splendid record of
serviceability, although it has been called upon for a maximum effort day after
day and this record has been compiled in a great measure by Warrant Officer
Barnhart who by his untiring efforts has inspired the ground staff to
BARNHART, F/O Harold William (J14199) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.428 Squadron - Award effective 14 July 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1861/44 dated 25 August 1944. Born 1921; home in Coventry, England. Enlisted in Ottawa, 24 April 1941. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 20 October
1941), No.9 EFTS (graduated 13 March 1942), No.8 SFTS (ceased training 8 April 1942) and No.2 AOS (graduated 11
September 1942). Commissioned 1942. Medal presented 11 August 1944.
This officer has always maintained an exceptionally
high standard of skill and efficiency as a navigator. He has completed many
successful sorties against the enemy. On
one mission to Hanover, all navigational aids failed in his aircraft soon after
the takeoff. By extremely accurate astro
navigation, however, he was able to guide his crew to the target, arriving at
exactly the correct moment and thus contributing much to the success of the
attack. He subsequently completed an
attack on Berlin in similar circumstances. Throughout his operational career
this officer has maintained a high standard of efficiency, ability and
BARNHOLDEN, Sergeant Gordon (R102462) - Commended
for Valuable Services - No.2 Bombing and Gunnery School - Award effective 2
March 1943 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 513/43 dated 26
March 1943. Home in Toronto. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 31 August
1941), No. 19 EFTS (ceased training 27 September 1941), No.3 AOS (graduated 14
March 1942), No.2 BGS (graduated 25 April 1942), and No.1 CNS.
While on a gunnery exercise a Fairey Battle
aircraft caught fire and force landed. The pilot and one of the gunners were rendered unconscious. The other gunner, Sergeant Barnholden,
regardless of any danger to himself, with the assistance of an ambulance
driver, pulled the pilot clear and both Sergeant Barnholden and the ambulance
driver then went back into the burning aircraft and rescued the other gunner.
BARNLUND, F/O Russell Edward (J27284) - Mention
in Despatches - No.408 Squadron - Award effective 14 June 1945 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1478/45 dated 21 September 1945. Trained at No.2 ITS, No.2 BGS and No.5
AOS. Unit identified in AFRO only as
RG.24 Box 2067).
BARONI, F/L Ross Bernard (J19400) - Distinguished
Gazette dated 13 October 1944 and AFRO 2637/44 dated 8 December 1944. Born 1921 in New Ross, Ontario; home there or
Arnprior, Ontario (ex-Royal Canadian Artillery); enlisted Halifax, 24 October
1941. Trained at No.5 ITS (graduated 24
April 1942), No.9 AOS (graduated 23 October 1942) and No.6 BGS (graduated 11
September 1942). Commissioned 1943. DFC and Bar presented 24 May 1946. No citation other than
2/9026 has recommendation dated 20 July 1944 when he had flown 38 sorties (178
hours 35 minutes), 6 September 1943 to 18 July 1944.
counted as 1/3 an operation
(8.30) 6 May 44 Mantes Gassicourt (2.45)
(9.00) 19 May 44 Mont Couple (1.40)
(7.35) 22 May 44 Le Mans (3.40, MB)
(6.00) 27 May 44 Rennes (3.40, MB)
(7.10) 10 June 44 Versailles (3.50, DMB)
(5.45) 12 June 44 Amiens (2.35, DMB)
(7.45) 14 June 44 Cambrai (2.50, MB)
25 Nov 43 Frankfort)
(8.10) 15 June 44 Lens (2.15, MB) 26 Nov 43 Stuttgart
(7.40) 16 June 44 Sterkrade (3.40)
3 Dec 43 Leipzig
(8.40) 17 June 44 Oisemont-au-Bois (2.35, MB)
(8.15) 21 June 44 Oisemont-au-Bois (2.15, MB)#
(8.00) 24 June 44 Bonnetot (2.10, MB)#
(6.40) 28 June 44 Wizerne (1.35)
26 Mar 44 Essen
(4.45) 29 June 44 Metz (5.15, MB)
(6.15) 1 July 44 Oisemont-au-Bois (2.10, MB)#
(2.50)* 9 July 44 Mont Condon (1.40, MB)#
(3.25) 12 July 44 Biemont (2.30, MB)
(3.50)* 14 July 44 Alderbelck (1.40, MB)
27 Apr 44 Mijion
(3.40, MB) 18 July 44 Caen (3.0, MB)#
4 May 44 Mondidier
This officer is a skilled Air Bomber who as
taken part in many operational sorties against heavily defended enemy targets. Throughout his varied operational career he
has at all times displayed a fine fighting spirit and a high degree of courage,
skill and initiative which has contributed in no small way to the successes
attained by his crew. Strongly
BARONI, F/L Ross Bernard, DFC (J19400) - Bar
to Distinguished Flying Cross - No.405 Squadron - Award effective 6 January
1945 as per London Gazette dated 16 January 1945 and AFRO 508/45 dated
operations. He has participated in
numerous sorties including attacks on such major targets as Berlin, Frankfurt
and Stuttgart. At all times he has
displayed a fine fighting spirit, great courage and the utmost determination
which have won the admiration of all members of his squadron.
NOTE: Public Record Office Air 2/9038 has
recommendation drafted 21 October 1944 when he had flown 52 sorties (14
since previous award) and 244 hours 16 minutes (65 hours 41 minutes since
previous award). Added sorties and recommendation as follows:
Bottrop (3.20)
Stettin (5.19)
Kiel (5.16)
Russelheim (6.41)
Stuttgart (6.51)
Kiel (5.46)
Stuttgart (7.26)
Pourchinte (2.16)
Stuttgart (6.17)
Le Havre (2.12)
Russelheim (4.39)
Le Havre (2.20)
TRACTABLE 21 (2.36)
Le Havre - missing, since returned to squadron
Meisbroek (4.42)
Flight Lieutenant Baroni is a very keen and efficient Bomb Aimer, who has
now completed two tours of operations against the enemy. Among the many attacks
this officer has participated in may be listed such heavily defended areas
as Berlin, Frankfurt and Stuttgart. Invariably, this officer has displayed
a fine fighting spirit and a determination to make his attacks successful ones.
Underneath a calm, unruffled personality, he possesses a flair for offensive
action, and dogged determination, which are his outstanding qualities. Undoubtedly,
this fine example will be difficult to surpass.. Strongly recommended for the
non-immediate award of a Bar to the Distinguished Flying Cross.
BARR, F/O Douglas William (J25042) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.426 Squadron -
Award effective 15 March 1945 as per London Gazette dated 23 March 1945
and AFRO 721/45 dated 27 April 1945. Born 1920 in Mawer, Saskatchewan; educated in New Asgoode, Saskatchewan;
home in Connell Creek, Saskatchewan (farmer); enlisted Regina 25 June 1942. Trained at No.4 ITS (graduated 4 December
1942) and No.2 AOS (graduated 1 April 1943). Commissioned April 1943. Posted
to No.426 Squadron, 12 April 1944; navigator in P/O R.M. Stone's crew. Medal presented 29 June 1945. No citation other than "completed...many
fortitude and devotion to duty." DHist file 181.009 D.4431 (RG.24 Vol.20649) has recommendation dated 22
October 1944 when he had flown 32 sorties (146 hours 50 minutes), 12 May to 27
Flying Officer Barr has completed a tour of
operations over enemy territory and throughout his exceptional keenness and
devotion to duty have been outstanding. His accurate navigation in all occasions has undoubtedly been responsible
to a very great extent for the successful conclusion of the tour by his crew,
and his cheerful disposition has been an inspiration to them as well as to the
other members of the squadron. He also
assisted greatly in his section in the training of new navigators. He is highly recommended for the award of the
BARR, F/O Harold Watson (J90644) - Mention
in Despatches - No.644 Squadron - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 388/46 dated 12 April 1946. Born in Toronto, 18 February 1921. Home in
London, Ontario; enlisted there 7 April 1942. Trained at No.5 ITS (graduated 7 November 1942), No.13 EFTS (graduated 9
January 1943) and No.16 SFTS (graduated as a Sergeant, 14 May 1943). Posted to "Y" Depot, Halifax, 15
May 1943; to RAF Trainees Pool, 26 May 1943; arrived in UK, 4 June 1943; to
No.20 (P) AFU, 22 June 1943; to No.82 OTU, 31 August 1943; to No.61 Base, 31
December 1943; attached to No.1659 Conversion Unit, 23 January 1944; to No.298
Squadron, 23 February 1944; to No.644 Squadron, 15 March 1944; to Station
Tempsford, 12 June 1945; to Station Snaith, 25 June 1945; repatriated 2 August
1945; released 20 September 1945. Certificate sent 10 August 1948. Certificate sent 10 August 1948.
On a form dated 22 July 1945 he reported
having flown 169 hours ten minutes on operations plus 519 hours five minutes
non-operational hours overseas. He have
his sorties as 34, and flying times on various aircraft as follows (all numbers
approximations) - Oxford (68), Wellington (82) and Halifax (528). Another form states he was honoured for
"Operational - Flying - not in conflict - meritorious."
BARR, FS James (R139334) - British Empire
Medal - No.4 Release Centre - Award effective 13 June 1946 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 660/46 dated 5 July 1946. Home in Toronto; enlisted in Hamilton,
Ontario, 26 November 1941. Invested with
medal, 18 October 1947. Governor
General's Records (RG.7 Group 26 Volume 60, file 190-I, dossier 9) has citation.
Flight Sergeant Barr has proven himself at all
times to be a completely capable non-commissioned officer. His devotion to duty and the service, and his
work in it, can be regarded as exceptional. He has proven that he can accomplish a large volume of work in a short
time and is thus considered outstanding as an example to all airmen for whom he
is responsible, as well as those with whom he is associated. He has proven himself worthy of recognition
by virtue of his continued outstanding loyal and efficient service.
BARR, LAC John Charles (R139358) - Mention
in Despatches - No.419 Squadron (AFRO gives unit as No.64 Base) - Award
Sherridan, Manitoba; enlisted Hamilton, 27 November 1941. DHist file 181.009 D.4364 (RG.24 Vol.20648)
has recommendation from W/C W.P. Pleasance, CO of No.419 Squadron, to CO
Middleton St.George dated 14 July 1944. Had enlisted 27 November 1941; 13
months in Canada, 19 months overseas. Armourer (Guns).
This airman's keen interest and thorough
efficiency has made him an admirable credit to his squadron. On every occasion his excellent understanding
of trade responsibilities, combined with continuous hard work, has resulted in
a perfect record of technical operations, whilst proving an ideal example for
BARR, F/L Vernon Leroy (J29213) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.434 Squadron - Award effective 5 July 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 17 July 1945 and AFRO 1558/45 dated 5 October 1945. Born 1914 in Reginna; home in Bengough,
Saskatchewan or Vancouver (truck driver); enlisted in Vancouver 15 June
1942. Trained at No.7 ITS (graduated 19
February 1943), No.6 EFTS (graduated 16 April 1943) and No.7 SFTS (graduated 6
August 1943). Commissioned 1943. Medal sent by registered mail December
1955. No citation other than "in
operations against the enemy". DHist file 181.009 D.1941 (RG.24 Vol.20612) has recommendation dated 24
March 1945 when he had flown 36 sorties (256 hours), 6 October 1944 to 12 March
This officer has completed many successful
sorties over such strongly defended targets as Stuttgart, Munich, and
Nurmburg. Throughout his tour he has pressed
home his attacks with courage and coolness under all hazardous circumstances.
He has displayed the greatest keenness for air operations and his devotion to
duty has been of a very high order...
BARRABLE, F/O Gordon Henry (C87517) - Mention
in Despatches - Middleton St.George - Award effective 14 June 1945 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1478/45 dated 21 September 1945. AFRO identifies unit only as
"Overseas"; No.6 Group
Monthly Summary of Activities (July 1944), p.12 listed him as Station
Armament Officer, Skipton. However,
DHist file 181.009 D.4364 (RG.24 Vol.20648) has recommendation sent to No.6
Group Headquarters, from Middleton St.George, 2 February 1945 when he had
served 16 months in Canada, 22 months overseas. Enlisted in Winnipeg (home town), 13 August 1941.
This officer over a period of six months has
done an exceptional job in charge of Daily Servicing Armament. He has worked long hours and several times by
his efforts has got aircraft bombed up which otherwise would not have been
bombed up.
BARRETT, F/O Alexander Robert Brownlie
(J37519) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.424 Squadron - Award
effective 10 May 1945 as per London Gazette dated 22 May 1945 and
AFRO 1147/45 dated 13 July 1945. Born
1921 in Hamilton, Ontario; home there (blacksmith); enlisted there 16 June
1942. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 18
February 1943). No.6 BGS (graduated 11
June 1943) and No.9 AOS (graduated 29 October 1943). Commissioned 1943. Medal presented 27 July 1949 in
Hamilton. No citation other than
(RG.24 Vol.20627) has recommendation dated 22 January 1945 when he had flown 21
sorties (116 hours 50 minutes), 15 September 1944 to 14 January 1945.
Acting in the capacity of Navigator, this
officer has completed over twenty sorties, most of which were carried out over
German territory, Cologne, Dusseldorf, Karlsruhe, Bochum and Duisburg, to
mention only a few. His courage and
devotion to duty combined with his sterling ability to perform his duties
successfully under the most hazardous conditions has made him a most valued
member of aircrew.
On a recent occasion upon returning from an
attack on Bochum on the night of October 4th, 1944, Flying Officer Barrett
demonstrated his exceptional skill by guiding his crew safely back to base,
after his compass and his other navigational aids had been rendered
unserviceable by enemy action.
BARRETT, S/L Joseph Flavelle (J3740) - Air
Force Cross - No.1 Training Command Headquarters (since moved to
No.5 OTU). Award effective as of 1
January 1945 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 89/45 dated 19
January 1945 - Home in Toronto; enlisted there 26 June 1940. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 14 September
1940), No.1 EFTS (graduated 11 November 1940) and No.2 SFTS (graduated 25
January 1941). Medal sent by registered
mail 20 September 1946. Reported as
having flown 2,159 hours to date, 1,741 hours as instructor.
This officer on all occasions throughout his
career on flying instructional duties has carried out his tasks with despatch
and effectiveness. By his untiring
efforts and devotion to duty, he has materially assisted in raising and
maintaining a high standard of pilot training. By his skill, initiative and resourcefulness, he has made a valuable
contribution to the training plan.
BARRETT, F/O Leslie George (J36697) - Mention
in Despatches - No.161 (BR) Squadron - Award effective 1 December 1945 as
1946. Enlisted in London, Ontario, 4 March 1941. Trained at No.1 BGS (graduated) 22 June 1942)
and No.4 AOS (graduated 25 May 1943).
operations against the enemy and at all times has shown the greatest fortitude,
skill and devotion to duty. In addition,
while serving as Squadron Armament Officer, he has displayed such initiative
and thoroughness that he has been a constant inspiration to all with whom he
BARRETT, F/O William Lemert (J18930) - Distinguished
1944. Born 1921 in Forest Hill, New
Brunswick; home in Fredericton (ex-gunner, Royal Canadian Artillery); enlisted
Moncton, 7 August 1941. Trained at No.6
BGS (graduated 9 November 1942) and No.1 WS (graduated 30 March 1942). Commissioned 1943. Medal sent by registered mail 22 November
1948. No citation other than
has] displayed high skill, fortitude and devotion to duty." Public Records Office Air 2/9632 has
recommendation dated 15 May 1944 when he had flown 26 sorties (169 hours 45
minutes), 9 July 1943 to 27 April 1944.
(7.05) 16 Dec 43 Berlin (7.16)
(5.25) 20
Dec 43 Frankfurt (5.33)
(6.10) 29 Dec
43 Berlin (6.36)
Jan 44 Brunswick (7.04)
(5.35) 28 Jan
44 Berlin (7.04)
29 Jul 43 Hamburg
(5.40) 15 Feb
44 Berlin (7.08)
(5.55) 20 Feb 44 Stuttgart (7.29)
(6.15) 24 Feb
44 Schweinfurt (8.32)
(7.37) 24 Mar
44 Berlin (7.32)
(6.58) 10
Apr 44 Laon (5.10)
(6.57) 20
Apr 44 Cologne (5.09)
(7.04) 26
Apr 44 Essen (4.42)
(7.11) 27
Apr 44 Fredrichshaven (8.18)
Pilot Officer Barrett has completed one tour
of operations with this squadron as a Wireless Operator. His sorties consisted of many attacks on
distant targets in Germany, including five trips to the Ruhr, three to Hamburg,
nine to Berlin and several others to southwest Germany. In all these operations, Pilot Officer
Barrett has displayed great courage and has et up a fine record of achievement.
As the Deputy Signals Leader of this squadron,
he has at all times set a high standard of professional skill, and his
enthusiasm towards his duties is largely responsible for the excellent signals
record of this squadron.
BARRICK, Sergeant John Frederick (R67788) - Distinguished
Flying Medal - No.17 Squadron - Award effective 23 July 1942 as per London
Gazette dated 24 July 1942 and AFRO
1243/42 dated 7 August 1942. Born
Sweetwater, Texas, 1918. Home in Odessa,
Texas. Enlisted in Windsor, Ontario, 28
September 1940. Trained at No.2 ITS (30
November 1940 to 3 January 1941), No.16 EFTS, and No.10 SFTS (21 February to 14
June 1941). Embarked from Halifax, 18
June 1941 for UK, and on 29 July 1941 to No.55 OTU. Served with No.17 Squadron, India, 30 March
1942 to 27 January 1944. Arrived in UK,
19 March 1944, and Canada 1 May 1944. To
No.1 OTU, Bagotville, 16 June 1944, to No.133 Squadron (Western Air Command),
14 October 1944. Released 2 October
1945. AC2 28 September 1940; LAC 3
September 1940; Sergeant 28 May 1941; Pilot Officer 1 May 1942; Flying Officer
1 November 1942; Flight Lieutenant 22 December 1943. Medal presented April 1946.
During the campaign in Burma this airman
displayed exceptional keenness to engage the enemy. During raid in March 1942 he destroyed an enemy fighter in the air and probably
destroyed another fighter and damaged a bomber on the ground. During another engagement he shot down an
enemy aircraft which was closing in on one of his fellow pilots. Sergeant Barrick himself was attacked by two
fighters during the combat, his engine failed and he was compelled to make a
landing. Although almost blinded by oil
he succeeded in his purpose without the assistance of flaps. The enemy continued to fire at him whilst he
was on the ground. Although suffering from shrapnel splinters and the effects
of hot oil on his face, chest and arms, Sergeant Barrick walked for some two
hours until he reached some Chinese troops. Throughout he displayed great courage and fortitude. He has destroyed five enemy aircraft.
BARRON, F/O George Albert Hendry (J36201) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.432 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 Brechinn, Angus, Scotland; home
in Thamesford or Hespeler, Ontario (dyer); enlisted Hamilton, 19 August
April 1943), No.20 EFTS (graduated 11 June 1943) and No.14 SFTS (graduated 1
October 1943). Commissioned 1943. Medal
presented 24 May 1947. No citation other than "in recognition of gallantry
enemy". DHist file 181.009 D.2618
(RG.24 Vol.20627) has recommendation dated 18 March 1945 when he had flown 31
sorties (171 hours 15 minutes) between 12 September 1944 and 6 January 1945.
During a most successful tour of operational
duty this officer has proved to be a most valuable member of his squadron. He has completed thirty-one operational
sorties over enemy territory as Captain of aircraft. This officer's dogged determination, skill
and devotion to duty has set a magnificent example and kept the morale of his
crew at a high level. His outstanding
ability and strong sense of duty warrant recognition and he his strongly
recommended for the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross (Non-Immediate).
BARRON, F/L John Hollis (J9161) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.692 Squadron - Award effective 13 June 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1660/44 dated 4 August 1944. Born Fonthill, 1916. BA from McMaster University. Home in New Liskeard, Ontario; enlisted in
Hamilton, 6 January 1941. Trained at
No.3 ITS (graduated 22 April 1941), No. 3 AOS (graduated 15 September 1941),
No.2 BGS (graduated 27 October 1941) and No.1 ANS (graduated 24 November
1941). Medal sent by registered mail, 17
September 1945. See also F/O V.P.B.
Hill, below. NOTE: Although the citation
does not give a date, this is probably an operation on 12/13 May 1944 when 22
Mosquitos of No.8 Group attempted to block the Kiel Canal by low level mining. Intelligence had reported that flak defences
on part of the canal had been removed. Twenty crews laid their mines in this stretch and one Mosquito was lost. Died in Ottawa, 6 February 1995.
One night in May 1944 several crews of
Mosquito aircraft were detailed for a difficult and dangerous mine-laying
mission. The operation called for the
highest standard of skill and accuracy in the face of intense anti-aircraft
fire, balloon defences and considerable searchlight activity. The attack was pressed home with great
precision from a low level. That
complete success was achieved in spite of such hazards is a high tribute to the
calm courage and iron determination shown by Flight Lieutenant Barron and
Flying Officer Hill who participated in various capacities as leaders and
members of aircraft crew.
BARRON, F/L Peter Clarence (J8351) - Air
Force Cross - No.168 Squadron (Canada) - Award effective 23 February 1946
as per London Gazette dated 26 February 1946 and AFRO 280/46 dated 15
March 1946. Home given variously as
Toronto and Waubaushene, Ontario. Enlisted at Hamilton, 14 June 1940. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 16 June 1941), No.3 EFTS (graduated 7
August 1941), and No.2 SFTS (graduated 24 October 1941). As of award had flown 2,943 hours, including
382 hours as a transport pilot in previous six months. Presented 22 June 1949.
This officer has flown many hours as a
transport pilot which has included fifty Atlantic crossings as captain of
Liberator and Fortress aircraft. During
these trips, Flight Lieutenant Barron has encountered many adverse flying
conditions and has consistently shown exceptional courage, flying ability and
devotion to duty. His willingness and
persistence in carrying out his duties in a highly courageous and efficient
manner has earned him the highest respect of all his associates.
BARROWMAN, WO (now P/O) Archibald McArthur
(R147703/J85618) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.97 Squadron
(deceased) - Award effective 24 May 1944 as per London Gazette dated 2
June 1944 and AFRO 1444/44 dated 7 July 1944. Born in Scotland, 1921. Home in
Tisdale, Saskatchewan (creamery employee). Enlisted in Saskatoon, 8 January
1942. Trained at No.7 ITS (graduated 1
August 1942) and No.3 BGS (graduated 23 October 1942). Medal presented to next-of-kin 28 February
1946. No citation other than
has] displayed high skill, fortitude and devotion to duty". Killed in action 15/16 March 1944 (Lancaster
JB361). Public Records Office Air 2/9149
has recommendation for a Distinguished Flying Medal (he was still a Flight
Sergeant) dated 17 February 1944 when he had completed 40 sorties (248 hours 55
minutes), 21 June 1943 to 15 February 1944 as follows: 21 Jun 43 Krefeld
(4.10) 4
Oct 43 Frankfurt (5.25)
(4.35) 7
Oct 43 Friedrichshaven
24 Jun 43 Elberfeld (4.35) (7.05)
Oct 43 Hanover (4.35)
(5.05) 3
Nov 43 Cologne (4.05)
(5.00) 10
Nov 43 Modene (7.10)
(5.25) 11 Nov 43 Cannes (7.40)
(5.20) 17 Nov
43 Ludwigshaven 26 Jul 43 Essen
(4.10) (5.25)
(5.10) 18 Nov
43 Berlin (7.45)
(4.50) 22 Nov
43 Berlin (5.50)
(5.40) 20 Dec
43 Frankfurt (4.30)
(7.10) 23 Dec 43 Berlin (7.15)
(8.20) 29
Dec 43 Berlin (6.35)
(4.30) 1 Jan 44 Berlin (6.55)
Jan 44 Berlin (6.20)
(6.20) 20 Jan
44 Berlin (7.20)
(7.35) 21
Jan 44 Magdeburg (7.25)
(5.25) 27
44 Berlin (7.50)
(8.00) 15
Feb 44 Berlin (7.50)
forty operational sorties against the enemy, 31 as marker. He has taken part in most of the recent major
operations against German targets, including eleven on Berlin, three on
Hanover, four on Cologne, four on Hamburg, and others on Friedrichshaven,
Frankfurt, Munich and Mannheim.
He is an Air Gunner in a crew which has on
several occasions been engaged by the enemy defences and sustained damage from
flak; also they have been attacked by enemy night fighters. Despite this they have dauntlessly pressed
home their attacks with great effect.
By his skill as an Air Gunner and eagerness to
operate against the enemy he has proved himself a most valuable member of the
squadron, and of his crew.
BARRY, WO2 Francis Joseph (R53033) - Croix
de Guerre with Palm (France) - award effective 16 July 1949 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 307/49. Home in Toronto. Forwarded to his
home, 8 November 1949.
BARRY, F/O Roy (C6525) - Mention in
Despatches - Western Air Command Marine Squadron - Western Air Command
Headquarters - Award effective 2 February 1946 as per Canada Gazette of
that date and AFRO 280/46 dated 15 March 1946. Enlisted in Vancouver, 28 October 1940.
Since entering the service in the early part
of the war, Flying Officer Barry has been almost continuously employed at sea
as Master in high-speed rescue and supply and salvage vessels. During this time this officer has carried out
all of his duties with alacrity, courage and determination. He has often operated his vessel under
extremely adverse weather conditions to carry out an important assignment. His devotion to duty, efficiency and cheerful
co-operation at all times has set a fine example to those under him and for
others to follow. Vessels in which he
has been Master have been required to carry out difficult assignments to
extremely isolated bases and detachments under adverse conditions. Each one of these assignments he has
BARRY, P/O William Alexander Renton (J16116) -
Distinguished Flying Cross - No.1474 Flight - Award effective 3 February
1943 as per London Gazette dated 9 February 1943 and AFRO 373/43 dated 5
March 1943. Born 15 May 1916 in Russell,
Manitoba; home there; enlisted Winnipeg. Trained at No.3 ITS, No.5 AOS, and No.1 CNS. Commissioned 1942. DFC presented 25 May 1943.
Throughout his operational career this officer
has been conspicuous for his gallantry and devotion to duty and has displayed
exceptional coolness and courage in hazardous circumstances.
NOTE: Public Records Office Air 2/8934 has
recommendation dated 22 December 1942. The award arose from events which led to DFCs to P/O H.G. Jordan and E.A. Paulton, DFMs to FSs
William W. Bigoray and FS E.T. Vachon - deliberate engagement with an enemy
night fighter to determine German airborne radar frequencies. As of award, Barry had flown on ten sorties
(60 operational hours):
28 July 42 Bombing
31 July 42 Bombing
2 Sept 42 Special
Wireless Investigation (Karlsruhe)
15 Sept 42 Air/Sea
Rescue (North Sea)
14 Oct 42 Special
Wireless Investigation (Belgian and Dutch coasts)
28 Oct 42 Special
Wireless Investigation (West coast of France)
16 Nov 42 Special
Wireless Investigation (Frisians and Danish coasts)
17 Nov 42 Special
Wireless Investigation (Bayonne)
22 Nov 42 Special
3 Dec 42 Special
Wireless Investigation (Frankfurt)
On the morning of 3rd December 1942, Pilot
Officer Barry was the Navigator in a Wellington 1c aircraft engaged in Wireless
Investigation duties in the Frankfurt area. To obtain the wireless information under investigation, an interception
by an enemy night fighter was necessary.
On this flight this interception was made and
the aircraft was attacked ten or twelve times by a Ju.88, causing considerable
damage to the aircraft and wounding four of the crew. When the Special Wireless Operator was hit,
Pilot Officer Barry tried to take over from him and continue working the sets,
so as to gain some more much needed information. When the Rear Gunner, who had come out of his
unserviceable turret to give fighter control from the astro dome position, was
wounded for the second time, Barry took over from him at the astro dome and
continued to give fighter control.
During these fierce attacks and on the
homeward journey in the severely damaged aircraft, Pilot Officer Barry
displayed exceptional coolness and outstanding courage in the face of the enemy
and set a fine example to the rest of the crew. Throughout his ten sorties he has been conspicuous in his devotion to
duty and determination to carry out his tasks to the utmost of his ability.
This was further edited for Air Ministry
Honours and Awards Committee to the following citation (not published except in
the most abbreviated form):
On 3rd December 1942, Pilot Officer Barry was
navigator in a bomber detailed for special wireless investigation duties over
Frankfurt. For the successful completion
of the mission it was necessary to provoke an attack by an enemy fighter. This
was achieved, and the bomber was fiercely assailed some ten times by a Junkers
88 which inflicted considerable damage and wounded four of the crew. When the
Special Wireless Operator was hit, Pilot Officer Barry attempted to replace him
in order that further vital information could be obtained. He also took over
fighter control, when the turret was put out of action and the rear gunner was
wounded. During these attacks, and on
the extremely hazardous return flight, Pilot Officer Barry continued to display
exceptional coolness and courage, materially contributing to the results of the
sortie. Throughout his operational
career, this officer has been conspicuous for his gallantry and devotion to
BARSALOU, FS Joseph Arthur Jacques (R104782) - Distinguished Flying Medal -
No.10 Squadron (RAF) - Award effective 23 March 1943 as per London Gazette
dated 6 April 1943 and AFRO 757/43 dated 30 April 1943. Born in Montreal, 1921; home there (clerk);
enlisted there 15 May 1941. Trained at
No.3 ITS (graduated 13 September 1941), No.11 EFTS (graduated 7 November 1941), and No.6 BGS (graduated 16
February 1942). Arrived in UK, 23 March
1942. To No.7 AGS, 18 May 1942; to No.10
OTU, 6 June 1942; to No.10 Squadron, 22 August 1942; to Station Pocklington
(non-effective strength), 4 April 1943; commissioned 5 August 1943; to No.23 OTU, 26 August 1943; to No.24 OTU,
15 March 1944; granted special leave in Canada, 25 July 1944 (on strength of
Overseas Headquarters; returned to UK, 25 September 1944; to No.24 OTU, 10
October 1944; to No.76 Base, 10 April 1945; to No.63 Base, 2 June 1945; to
No.76 Base, 16 July 1945; to R Depot, 2 August 1945; repatriated, 12 August
1945. Invested with medal 20 July 1943.
One night in March 1943, this airman was the
rear gunner of an aircraft which attacked Essen. When nearing the target area the bomber was
subjected to heavy anti-aircraft fire and its fuselage was pierced in eighteen
places. The rear turret was riddled and
Flight Sergeant Barsalou was severely wounded but refrained from informing his
captain who went on to bomb the objective. A few minutes later when his captain once more inquired if he was all
right, Flight Sergeant Barsalou gave a reassuring reply and warned him of the
presence of an enemy fighter. It was
shaken off and a member of the crew was ordered to investigate the rear
turret. Flight Sergeant Barsalou was
then found slumped over his guns and the turret a mass of blood. He had received several shrapnel wounds. Although in great pain, very weak and
bleeding profusely, he attempted to minimize his injuries and insisted that he
could bear up until the English coast was reached. When the aircraft was finally landed Flight
Sergeant Barsalou was rushed to hospital. This airman displayed courage, fortitude and devotion to duty in keeping
with the highest traditions of the Royal Air Force.
BARTLEMAN, F/L James Maxwell (J21033) - Distinguished
Gazette dated 14 November 1944 and AFRO 239/45 dated 9 February 1945. Born 1920 in Wolseley, Saskatchewan; home
there; student at Queen's University; enlisted in Toronto, 26 August 1941. Trained at No.5 ITS (graduated 16 January
1942), No.21 EFTS (graduated 27 March 1942), No.9 SFTS (ceased training 31 July
1942) and No.5 AOS (graduated 20
November 1942). Commissioned November
1942. Invested with medal 18 October
1947. No citation other than
duty." DHist file 181.009 D.1634
(RG.24 Vol.20604) had recommendation dated 13 July 1944 when he had flown 36
sorties (223 hours 30 minutes), 3 November 1943 to 30 August 1944. Name given as Maxwell James.
As navigator, Flying Officer Bartleman has
completed one very satisfactory tour of operations, during which many
successful attacks were carried out against the enemy. The success achieved and the number of aiming
points obtained were in no small measure due to the excellent navigation and
outstanding efforts of this officer.
For very good work throughout his whole tour
and for strong support of the squadron at all times, I recommend the immediate award of the
BARTLEMAN, P/O Kenneth Earl (J87199) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.156 Squadron - Award effective 1 December 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 12 December 1944 and AFRO 337/45 dated 23 February 1945. Born 1921 in Kitchener, Ontario; home there;
enlisted in Hamilton, 28 June 1941. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 7 November 1941), No.1 AOS (graduated 6
June 1942), No.1 BGS (graduated 18 July 1942) and No.1 ANS (graduated 29
September 1942). Commissioned 1942. Medal sent by registered mail 20 April 1949. No citation other than "..in recognition
Air 2/8882 has recommendation dated 18
September 1944 when he had flown 42 sorties (215 hours 30 minutes), 20 October
1943 to 15 September 1944.
20 Oct 43 Leipzig 6 June 44 Le Havre
22 Oct 43 Kassel 8 Jun 44 St.Lo
26 Nov 43 Berlin 9 June 44 Fougeres
2 Dec 43 Berlin 15 Jun 44 St.Pol
3 Dec 43 Leipzig 18 Jun 44 Montdidier
23 Dec 43 Berlin 2 July 44 Oisemont
29 Dec 43 Berlin 7 July 44 Vaires
30 Jan 44 Berlin 10 Jul 44 Nucourt
24 Feb 44 Schweinfurt 11 Jul 44 Gapelle
25 Feb 44 Augsburg 12 Jul 44 Tours
11 Apr 44 Aachen 18 Jul 44 Wesseling
22 Apr 44 Dusseldorf 24 Jul 44 Stuttgart
24 Apr 44 Karlsruhe 25 Jul 44 Stuttgart
26 Apr 44 Essen 28 Jul 44 Hamburg
27 Apr 44 Freidrichshaven 1 Aug 44 Prouville
12 May 44 Louvain 4 Aug 44 Paulliac
19 May 44 Boulogne 25 Aug 44 Russelsheim
22 May 44 Dortmund 26 Aug 44 Kiel
27 May 44 Rennes 29 Aug 44 Stettin
28 May 44 Calais 12 Sep 44 Scholven
31 May 44 Calais 15 Sep 44 Kiel
Pilot Officer Bartleman has completed 42
operational sorties, 32 of which have been with the Pathfinder Force. Many of the targets attacked have been
heavily defended German areas.
This officer is a keen and efficient Set
Operator of special equipment used in the squadron. His skill and keenness has materially
contributed to the success of one of the squadron's best Blind Marking
crews. He is always cheerful and
extremely keen to fly on operations, and has always shown ability and
determination to produce the best results. I consider him well worth of the award of the Distinguished Flying
NOTE: It is interesting to find (Air 2/9039) a
further recommendation for the DFC, this one dated 18 October 1944. It gives the number of sorties as 42 (same as
above) but operational time as 217 hours 55 minutes (slightly more than
above). The text also differs in detail:
operational sorties, 32 of which have been with the Pathfinder Force. Some of the targets attacked have been the
most heavily defended in Germany.
This officer is a reliable and efficient
Operator of special equipment used in the squadron, and has always shown great
keenness and determination in carrying out his duties. He has materially contributed to the success
of one of the best Blind Marking crews in the squadron.
The Commanding Officer evidently though very
highly of him to put forward this recommendation twice in the space of a month
(unless the earlier recommendation had been deemed insufficient in some way or
was submitted when quotas had already been filled)
BARTLETT, F/O Allan Harold (J14654) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.415 Squadron - Award effective 28 April 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 5 May 1944 and AFRO 1186/44 dated 2 June 1944. Born 1921 in Montreal; home there; enlisted
there 13 October 1941. Trained at No.3
ITS (graduated 13 March 1942) , No.8 AOS (graduated 22 June 1942), No.9 BGS
(graduated 1 August 1942) and No.1 ANS (graduated 21 September 1942). Commissioned 1942.
This navigator has displayed outstanding
keenness, skill and devotion to duty during many hazardous anti-shipping
patrols. In January 1944 he acted as
navigator in an attack on enemy shipping off Calais. The attack was successfully delivered in the
face of heavy defensive action. This
was, in no small measure, due to the skill and coolness of Flying Officer
Bartlett. He has played no small part in
the sinking of one merchant vessel and in damaging a destroyer and other enemy
BARTLETT, LAW (now Corporal) Florence Beatrice
(W301009) - British Empire Medal - No.9 SFTS - Awarded 1 January 1945 as
per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 89/45 dated 19 January
1945. Home in Saint John, New Brunswick;
enlisted Moncton 13 November 1941. Invested with medal 17 June 1945.
This airwoman, in two and a half years'
service at this unit, has proven herself to be an exceptionally conscientious
and capable chef. Despite the arduous
nature of her duties, she has displayed outstanding initiative and unselfish
devotion to duty at all times. Her
exemplary conduct and successful and energetic efforts for the welfare of all
concerned have been a great inspiration and example to others. Her great enthusiasm and efficiency are
BARTLETT, F/L Frederick Raymond (J23044) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.414 Squadron - Award effective 23 May 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 1 June 1945 and AFRO 1147/45 dated 13 July 1945. Born 1917
in Verdun, Quebec; home in Montreal; enlisted there 30 October 1940. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 4 March 1941),
No.13 EFTS (graduated 6 May 1941) and No.6 SFTS (graduated 27 July 1941).
Commissioned 1942. Medal sent by
registered mail 21 December 1949.
Since July 1944 this officer has completed a
large number of operational sorties. The
majority of these missions have been very successful and have been accomplished
with skill, determination and courage. Many have been flown in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire and at
very low level. On one occasion his
aircraft was so severely damaged Flight Lieutenant Bartlett was forced to leave
it by parachute. At all times he has set
a high standard of efficiency and devotion to duty.
BARTMAN, P/O Michael (J85663) - Distinguished
Gazette dated 17 October 1944 and AFRO 2637/44 dated 8 December 1944. Born 1920; home in Vegreville, Alberta;
served in Canadian Army; e* Vancouver, 21 May 1942. Trained at No.7 ITS (graduated 23 October
1942) and No.3 AOS (graduated 19 February 1943). Commissioned 1944. Award presented 11 September 1946. No citation other than
(RG.24 Vol.20603) has recommendation dated 27 July 1944 when he had flown 31
sorties (156 hours 59 minutes), 15 February to 20 July 1944.
Pilot Officer Bartman has completed a tour of
operations as navigator and during his tour he navigated to some of the most
heavily defended targets in Germany including Berlin, Frankfurt, Leipzig and
Essen. On each operation, Pilot Officer
Bartman displayed exceptional skill as a navigator and he was very largely
responsible for the splendid operational record of his crew. The very fact that their aircraft was so
rarely attacked by enemy night fighters and seldom hit by flak, other than over
the target itself, is a good indication of the excellence of his navigation and
track keeping.
Pilot Officer Bartman was exceptionally keen
to operate at every opportunity; his cheerfulness and navigational ability have
made him of the mainstays of his crew and have set a fine example to the whole
squadron. Therefore, I recommend that he
be granted the award of a Non-Immediate Distinguished Flying Cross.
BARTON, F/L Alfred William (J7811) - Air
Force Cross - No.14 SFTS - Award effective 14 June 1945 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1127/45 dated 6 July 1945. Born in Cobourg, Ontario, 1 August 1914;
educated there. Employed by Port Hope
Sanitary Company. Enlisted in Kingston,
16 September 1940; re-enlisted (remustered ?) in Toronto, 14 March 1941.
Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 26 May 1941), No.7 EFTS (graduated 15 July 1941)
and No.1 SFTS (graduated 7 October 1941). Medal sent by registered mail 30 November
1945. As of award had flown 2,272 hours,
of which 2,022 were as instructor.
This officer's steady and progressive spirit
has done a great deal to further the efforts of the training organization. His co-operation and willingness to do more
than required have been of valuable assistance to his superiors. He has at all times been an example to his
fellow officers and instructors that has been an inspiration to them. His outstanding direction of their problems
has kept their morale and determination at a very high standard. He has displayed devotion to duty of a high
BARTON, F/O George Gordon (J24258) - 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 1923 in Tornto; home in Sudbury;
enlisted in Hamilton 6 April 1942. Trained at No.5 ITS (graduated 1 AAugust 1942), No.2 EFTS (graduated 8
November 1942) and No.11 SFTS (graduated 5 March 1943). Commissioned 1943. Medal presented 20 August 1949. No citation other than "..in recognition
D.2609 (RG.24 Vol.20627) has recommendation dated 18 September 1944 when he had
flown 34 sorties (162 hours 35 minutes), 10 May 1944 to 6 September 1944. The sheet is very detailed; on 24 May 1944
(Aachen) he was attacked by an enemy aircraft and encountered intense flak; on
27 May 1944 (Bourg-Leopold) he saw three other aircraft shot down. He was hit by heavy flak during a daylight
raid on 24 June 1944 (Bonnetot).
Flying Officer Barton has displayed
outstanding ability as a Pilot and Captain of aircraft. He has completed 34 sorties over enemy
territory, some of which were carried out over heavily defended German targets
such as Metz, Stuttgart, Brunswick and Kiel.
Flying Officer Barton has shown the utmost
determination to inflict damage upon the enemy. His courage has been an inspiration to his crew as well as to the other
Captains in his Flight...
BARTON, F/L Paul Smith (J13606) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.400 Squadron - Award effective 8 May 1945 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 966/45 dated 8 June 1945. American in the RCAF, although he was born in
Sulte Ste.Marie, Ontario, 1921, and award card gives home as Oshawa,
Ontario. Enlisted in Toronto, 11 August
December 1941), No.12 EFTS (graduated 13 February 1942) and No.14 SFTS
1942. Medal presented 9 April 1948.
reconnaissances and has been responsible for securing much valuable
information. In March 1945 Flight
Lieutenant Barton was detailed to photograph an area in the Rees sector. During the operation much anti-aircraft fire
was directed at his aircraft. In spite
of this, Flight Lieutenant Barton successfully accomplished his task and them
acting on his own initiative, went on to reconnoitre the whole of the Rhine
River between Emmerich and Wesel. In
this well executed sortie Flight Lieutenant Barton displayed skill, courage and
BARTON, F/O Ruggles Wilson (J87463) - Mention
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1478/45 dated 21 September 1945. Born in Low, Quebec. Home in Ottawa; enlisted there 14 September
1939. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 27
January 1941), No.9 EFTS (graduated 17 March 1941) and No.5 SFTS (graduated 21
June 1941). A new despatch dated 28 June
1942 says that on a raid to Bremen "Saturday" (in No.405 Squadron) he
was 25 miles from target when two Messerschmitts appeared on either side of his
Halifax bomber. In taking evasive action
the bomber rolled on its back and went into a spin. He literally stood on the seat to pull it
back while everything loose in the aircraft flw in all directions. When he levelled it out it actually zoomed up
3,000 feet. It was his 13th sortie and
third with No.405. Earlier he had made a
forced landing with one wheel down and another still in the wheel well. He had also been thrown clear of a bomber following
another crash, and in January 1942 had dropped leaflets over France on behalf
of American forces.
BARWOOD, F/L William Harry Ernest (C7487) - Mention
in Despatches - No.3 Personnel Reception Centre - Award effective 1 January
February 1945. Home in Vancouver;
enlisted there 19 April 1941. No
BASARICH, P/O George (J17784) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.114 Squadron - Award effective 23 November 1943 as per London
Gazette dated 26 November 1943 and AFRO 113/44 dated 21 January 1944. American in the RCAF. Born Keokuk, Iowa, 1913; home in Clinton,
Iowa. Enlisted in Windsor, Ontario, 29
May 1941. Trained at No.5 ITS (graduated
24 September 1941), No.12 EFTS (graduated 21 November 1941), and No.5 SFTS
(graduated 13 March 1942). Commissioned
1943. Medal presented 11 August 1948.
During the last nine months Pilot Officer
Basarich has taken part in a large number of operational sorties. He has flown in adverse weather over the
Tunisian mountains to attack enemy airfields and docks and has participated in
daylight operations against heavily defended posts. He has also operated consistently and
successfully at night over Sicily and Italy against enemy lines of communications. An excellent pilot, this officer has always
displayed steadiness and imperturbability which, combined with his fine
fighting spirit, have been an inspiring example to the other pilots in his
NOTE: Public Records Office Air 2/8993 has recommendation dated 28 September
1943 when he had flown 550 hours, 130 in previous six months. He had flown 56 sorties (126 hours 45
minutes). Drafted on 28 September 1943
by the Wing Commander commanding No.114 Squadron. The recommendation is much
more detailed than the final citation and is worth quoting:
Pilot Officer Basarich has now been in this
squadron nine months and has completed 56 operational sorties for a total of
126.45 hours.
He started in the first bomber wing in North
Africa flying Bisleys and did some difficult sorties in extremely bad weather
over the Tunisian mountains to enemy aerodromes and dock areas. Then flying Boston aircraft he took part in
the intensive daylight operations against heavily defended landing grounds and
strong points that culminated in the end of the Tunisian campaign.
Since that time he has operated consistently
and successfully at night over Sicily and Italy against aerodromes, towns,
marshalling yards and enemy lines of communications with singular success, invariably
dropping his incendiaries from 1,500 feet or below, accurately on his target.
Pilot Officer Basarich's crew is one of the
most reliable and pugnacious in the squadron. If a more difficult and dangerous task is wanted his name is
automatically brought to mind.
His keenness to hit the enemy as hard as
possible on every occasion is most outstanding, and he is seldom satisfied with
merely dropping his bombs but invariably returns to the attack with all his
guns from low level.
As a team-work pilot in daylight boxes he has
flown No.2 or No.3 with consistent steadiness and unperturbability even in the
worst flak and in so doing has set a fine example and helped his fellow pilots.
As an individual night pilot he has proved
himself to be an accurate and deadly intruder with much more than average dash
In short, this pilot is a first class fighter
who has done extremely well and continues to show very great keenness, and is
strongly recommended for this award.
On 29 September 1943 the Group Captain
Commanding No.326 Light Bomber Wing added his remarks.
By his example in keenness to attack the enemy
and because of the courageous and successful manner in which he has carried out
the numerous operational tasks allotted to him this officer has well deserved
the above recommendation.
The Air Commodore Commanding, Tactical Bomber
Force, added "Strongly Recommended" on 2 October 1943; Air Marshal
Alan Coningham, Air Officer Commanding, North African Tactical Air Force, approved
the recommendation on 12 October 1943.
BASCOM, F/L Stephen Arthur (J23370) - Distinguished
Gazette dated 22 May 1945 and AFRO 1147/45 dated 13 July 1945. Born 1916 in Whitby, Ontario; home in Toronto
(bank clerk); enlisted there 26 Aoril 1939. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 25 September 1942), No.4 AOS (graduated 5
February 1943) and No.1 BGS (graduated 23 November 1943. Commissioned 1943. Portrait painted overseas
by Eric Aldwinckle. Medal presented 1
April 1949. Security Officer in postwar
RCAF Headquarters (Squadron Leader rank). No citation other than "completed...numerous operations against the
fortitude, courage and devotion to duty". DHist file 181.009 D.1746 (PAC RG.24 Vol.20608) has recommendation dated
11 January 1945 when he had flown 29 sorties (133 hours 33 minutes):
As Air Bomber, this officer has completed a
large number of sorties against enemy targets, and his work in the air has
always been of the highest standard. On
several occasions, Flying Officer Bascom has coolly directed his skipper in an
orbit in the face of very heavy defences, to ensure the accuracy of his
bombing. A resolute and determined Bomb
Aimer, Flying Officer Bascom has contributed greatly to the success of his
BASKERVILLE, G/C Patrick George (C188) - Mention
in Despatches - No.1 Group Headquarters (Canada) - Awarded 14 June 1945 as
per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 1127/45 dated 6 July 1945.RMC
graduate. Enlisted at Camp Borden, 30
August 1935; awarded wings 17 June 1936; flew with No.10 Squadron to Halifax,
August 1939; served with No.11 (BR) Squadron, 1939-42; post-war was appointed
to be Air Attaché to Washington (1947). Retired as a Group Captain, 17 December
1948. While serving as Senior Air Staff Officer at
No.1 Group Headquarters, he has made a marked contribution to the energetic
offensive measures against enemy U-Boats. His willingness to assume immediate control at any hour of the day or
night and his able direction of operations have inspired confidence among the
crews operating against the enemy and have done much to advance morale and
BASSARAB, F/L Russell Nicholas (J22239) - Mention
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1395/45 dated 31 August 1945. Home in Kingston, Ontario; enlisted in Ottawa
26 August 1941. Trained at No.7 ITS
(graduated 25 April 1942), No.6 AOS (graduated 12 September 1942), No.7 BGS
(graduated 3 January 1943), and No.1 ANS (graduated 6 November 1942).
BASSARAB, F/L Russell Nicholas (J22239) - Netherlands
Flying Cross - No.299 Squadron (erroneously given in AFRO as No.229
Squuadron) - Award effective 28 September 1945 as per Canada Gazette
dated 6 April 1946 and AFRO 388/46 dated 12 April 1946. However, AFRO 473/46 cancels this ! Public Records Office Air 2/9556 has
recommendation from W/C P.N. Jennings, CO of No.299 Squadron, dated 17 August
1945, when he had flown 25 sorties (128 hours 40 minutes). Document did not specify honour other than
"Dutch award". Navigator,
Stirling aircraft.
Flight Lieutenant Bassarab has taken part in
numerous operations over enemy occupied Europe and especially Holland both in
aid of the Resistance movement and in the dropping of S.A.S. troops. He played a particularly outstanding part in
Operation "FABIAN" and his skill and devotion to duty contributed to
the material success of that operation. His enthusiasm for operations against the enemy has been unbounded and
his skill and ability in the air have at all times been an inspiration to the
personnel of the squadron.
BASSETT, P/O Glenn Alvin (J86138) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.428 Squadron - Award effective 19 September 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 2274/44 dated 20 October 1944. Born 1923 in Saskatchewan; home in Calgary or
Beechy, Saskatchewan; enlisted Saskatoon, 3 July 1941. Trained at No.2 WS (graduated 7 August 1942)
and No.3 BGS (graduated 18 December 1942). Commissioned 1944. Medal presented 14 June 1947.
This officer, as rear gunner, has participated
in many sorties against objectives in Germany and France; he has also completed
numerous mine-laying operations. On
several occasions his vigilance and skilful evading directions have enabled his
pilot to frustrate enemy fighters. His
excellent work has contributed materially to the successes achieved.
BASSO, S/L Joseph Antonio (C2762) - Air
Force Cross - No.3 Bombing and Gunnery School - Award effective 28 May 1943
as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 1459/43 dated 30 July 1943 -
American in RCAF; received comprehensive schooling in aviation at Dallas,
Texas; parents living Andover, Massachusettes. Enlisted in Ottawa, 5 September
1940; home in Bryan, Texas. Medal
presented 16 November 1943.
Squadron Leader Basso, as Officer Commanding
Maintenance Wing, has always given unstintingly of his knowledge and experience
in the maintenance of aircraft at this unit. Due to his extreme devotion to duty and unbounded enthusiasm this school
has been able to maintain a high standard of training. His total flying time of 1,087 hours includes
913 instructional hours, of which 492 were logged during the last twelve
BASSON, P/O Robert Arthur (J19840) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.424 Squadron - Award effective 1 September 1944 as per London
1944. Born 1919 in Lethbridge; home
there; enlisted in Calgary 11 March 1941. Trained at No.4 ITS (graduated 10 September 1941), No.16 EFTS (graduated
7 November 1941) and No.15 SFTS (graduated 27 February 1942). Commissioned 1944. Medal presented 11 June 1949. No citation other than "completed...many
Office Air 2/9276 has recommendation dated 15 June 1944 when he had flown 32
sorties (219 hours 15 minutes), 21 August 1943 to 11 May 1944.
21 Aug 43 Battaglia
(5.50) 21
Sep 43 Bastia (7.00)
23 Aug 43 Bagnoli
Sep 43 Pisa (7.45)
24 Aug 43 Terre
Annunziata (5.45) 1
Oct 43 Formia (5.40)
27 Aug 43 Salerno
(5.55) 4
Oct 43 Formia (6.05)
29 Aug 43 Torre
Annunziata (5.40) 19
Feb 44 Leipzig (6.55)
1 Sept 43 Aversa
(5.55) 25
Feb 44 Augsburg (7.25);
3 Sept 43 Naples
(6.05); hit by fighter
Mar 44 Trappes (5.50)
6 Sept 43 Battapaglia
(5.35) 7
Mar 44 Le Mans (5.20)
7 Sept 43 Viterbo
Apr 44 Villeneuve St.George
10 Sep 43 Formia
(6.35) (6.20) 11 Sep 43 Frosinone
(5.40) 10
Apr 44 Ghent (4.00)
13 Sep 43 Pompei
(6.30) 18
Apr 44 Noisey le Sec (5.50)
14 Sep 43 Battaglia
Apr 44 Lens (4.10)
15 Sep 43 Terre
Annunziata (6.40) 24
Apr 44 Karlsruhe (7.45)
16 Sep 43 Cisterna
(5.45) 26
Apr 44 Essen (4.35)
18 Sep 43 Viterbo
(6.20) 9
May 44 St.Valery (4.00)
11 May 44 Bologne
This officer has piloted his aircraft on
numerous bombing missions over enemy territory. Throughout, he has displayed skill, courage and excellent
leadership. His determination, devotion
to duty and his courage have enabled him to press home every attack with
telling success and thereby complete a highly effective tour of operations.
BASTABLE, WO (now P/O) Vernon James
(R95313/J96709) - Military Cross
- No.106 Squadron - Award effective 13 April as per London Gazette dated
17 May 1946 and AFRO 602/46 dated 14 June 1946. Born in Winnipeg 2 December 1914; home there (clerk, warehouuseman);
member of Fort Garry Horse, 19331-1935; enlisted Winnipeg 4 March 1941. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 4 June 1941),
No.8 EFTS (graduated 27 July 1941) and No.3 SFTS (graduated 17 October
1941). Further trained at No.20 OTU,
Lossiemouth. Shot down on his fifth
sortie. Back in England, June 1945;
repatriated to Canada, July 1945. Released 12 October 1945. Medal
presented 30 October 1948. Killed at
Winnipeg in a Vampire, No.402 Squadron, 27 March 1949.
Warrant Officer Bastable was captured in the
Rouen area in September 1942 and was held in various prison camps. He made his first attempt to escape in May
1943, whilst with a working party at Metsdorf, Sudetenland, having obtained
civilian clothes from the Czechs. His
true identity was discovered and he was returned to Stalag 344. Warrant Officer Bastable then decided to make
an immediate attempt to escape in an Army uniform. He cut the wire of a second floor window and,
timing his action to miss the guards, he jumped clear and escaped. He travelled in the direction of Prague but
after three days he was discovered by some German civilians. He was handed over to the authorities and
sent to a Gestapo prison where he was kept for fourteen days in solitary
confinement. He was sent back to Stalag
Luft 344 and spent a further ten days in solitary confinement. In October 1943, Warrant Officer Bastable
made another attempt to escape by means of an emergency ladder in the main
shaft of a coal mine in which he was working. He gained his liberty for two days after which he was recaptured by
German police in company with a Czech air force sergeant. He made another attempt to escape from Stalag
344 but both were recaptured and were returned to camp. Warrant Officer Bastable and the same Czech
sergeant finally escaped in October 1944 by jumping from the roof of their
billets over the fence and proceeding into some woods nearby. Here they were assisted by Czech civilians. They eventually made contact with the Czech
underground with arms and ammunition and took part in many operations,
destroying railways, bridges, road blocks, and electrical installations. The Czech sergeant was captured again and has
not been heard of since. Warrant Officer
Bastable continued serving in the underground movement until he was liberated
by the Russians in May 1945.
BATCHELOR, F/L Alexander William, DFC (C89543)
- Bar to Distinguished Flying Cross - No.109 Squadron - Award effective
8 September 1945 as per London Gazette dated 21 September 1945 and AFRO
1704/45 dated 9 November 1945. Born 22
July 1920 in Saskatoon; educated in Saskatchewan. Enlisted in RAF as 926590 Aircraftsman 2nd
Class (Aircraft Hand), Air Observer, 21 May 1940; mobilised 15 July 1940.
Remustered to LAC and Observer Under Training, 29 December 1940; classified as
Sergeant and Air Observer, 27 June 1941; promoted to Flight Sergeant, 1 June
1942; remustered as Navigator (B), 23 July 1942; Commissioned 17 September 1942
(134045); graded as Flying Officer on Probation, 17 March 1943; promoted to
Flight Lieutenant, 17 September 1944. Transferred to RCAF, 18 Januay 1945. His
wartime postings were as follows: No.1 Recruits Centre, Uxbridge, 21 May 1940;
Placed on Reserve, 22 May 1940; No.9 Recruits Centre, Blackpool, 15 July 1940;
Station Leuchars, 31 July 1940 (ground defence); No.5 Initial Training Wing, 19
Oct 1940; No.50 Group Pool, 18 January 1941; No.5 Bombing and Gunnery School, 2
May 1941; No.10 OTU, 5 July 1941; No.78 Squadron, Middleton St. George, 10
September 1941 (first sortie, 30 November 1941); No.76 Squadron, 30 June 1942;
No.462 Squadron, 12 August 1942 (NOTE: with these squadrons he was on
operations in Middle East from 12 July 1942 to 31 December 1942; first sortie
in that theatre was on 15 July 1942); No.23 Personnel Transit Centre, Middle
East, 2 January 1943; No.22 Personnel Transit Centre, Middle East, 3 January
1943; No.1 Personnel Despatch Centre, UK, 26 March 1943; No.1652 Conversion Unit
(Navigator/B, Instructor), 25 April 1943; No.23 OTU, Pershore (Instructor), 29
May 1943 (Wellintons); No.20 OTU (Instructor), 15 March 1944; No.1655 Mosquito
Training Unit (for Pathfinder training), 31 July 1944; No.109 Squadron
(Navigator/B, operations), 15 September 1944 (first sorties 1 October 1944);
Little Staughton, 27 May 1945; No.63 Base, 2 July 1945; to Yarmouth, NS, 30
July 1945; released in Victoria, 9 October 1945 Awarded initial DFC while a member of the Royal Air Force (London
Gazette, 13 April 1945, No.109 Squadron). Medal presented in New Brunswick, 21 December 1949. As of 18 January 1945 he claimed 2 1/2
operatioal tours and one non-opertaional. Claimed 380 operational hours and 500
non-operations. Times on types: Anson
(84), Blenheim (65), Whitley (100), Halifax (256), Wellington (100), Oxford
(37), Mosquito (238). Another form (no
date but soon after transfer to RCAF) claims 82 sorties including 54 on current
tour. Re-engaged in RCAF on 24 February
1946; reverted to Flying Officer, 1 October 1946; promoted to Flight
Lieutenant, 1 June 1949. Postings were
as follows: WAC "K" Flight, 25 November 1946; Station Patricia Bay,
27 January 1947; JAS Rivrs, 10 May 1947; NWAC "K" Flight, Edmonton,
14 September 1947; Station Summerside, 10 May 1949 (Air Navigation School). As
of 20 Nov 1950 he gave flying times thus: Anson (81.45), Blenheim (9.45), Whitley (170.30), Halifax (171.40),
Wellington (167.15), Oxford (33.40), Mosquito (235.05), Canso (207), Dakota
(446.50), Lancaster (25.00), Beechcraft (5.10), Norseman (8.25), Harvard
(5.10). To Air Ministry, London, 25
April 1951; attached to No.1 Air Navigation School, Hullavington. Killed in crash of Wellington T.10 RB383
during training exercise to Malta (seven killed), crashed on a mountain peak in
southrn France; aircraft not found for 16 days. As of 20 Nov 1950 he gave flying times thus: Anson (81.45), Blenheim (9.45), Whitley
(170.30), Halifax (171.40), Wellington (167.15), Oxford (33.40), Mosquito
(235.05), Canso (207), Dakota (446.50), Lancaster (25.00), Beechcraft (5.10),
Norseman (8.25), Harvard (5.10). An
article on him, "Batch", subsequently appeared in Roundel,
written by S/L N.W. Emmott, DFC who described him as "the best natural
navigator I ever knew."
Flight Lieutenant Batchelor has now completed
two tours of operational duty. He has
always shown himself to be a most reliable and determined navigator with
outstanding courage and supreme devotion to duty. Since the award of the Distinguished Flying
Cross, he has continued to operate with undiminished skill and ability and has
been largely responsible for the success of many attacks on enemy targets.
BATCHELOR, F/O Eric Trelawny (J10594) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.224 Squadron - Award effective 29 September 1943 as per London
Gazette dated 1 October 1943 and AFRO 2258/43 dated 5 November 1943. Born 1921 in Kamloops. Home in Vancouver; enlisted there 2 July
1941. Trained at No.4 ITS (graduated 11
September 1941), No.18 EFTS (graduated 7 November 1941) and No.7 SFTS
(graduated 13 March 1942. Commissioned
1942. Cited with F/L Maurice Morley
(RAF, Gunnery Leader, awarded DFC), WO Robert William Lowe (RAF WOAG, awarded
DFC) and FS Bryce Campbell McMurtie (RAF, WOAG, awarded DFM). Graduated in civil egineering from Washington
State University, 1948; employed by British Columbia Department of Public
Works; to RCAF again, 1950.
Flight Lieutenant Morley was the gunnery
leader whilst Warrant Officer Lowe and Flight Sergeant McMurtie were wireless
operator air gunners in a Liberator aircraft captained by Flying Officer
Batchelor during an anti-submarine patrol over the Bay of Biscay in September
1943. During the flight the aircraft was
attacked for over an hour by six Junkers 88. Throughout the engagement the masterly evasive tactics executed by
Flying Officer Batchelor enabled the Liberator to emerge having sustained only
two hits, whilst the accurate return fire of Warrant Officer Lowe and Flight
Sergeant McMurtie skilfully controlled by Flight Lieutenant Morley enable one
of the enemy aircraft to be destroyed. The cool determination and co-operation displayed by these members of
aircraft crew was worthy of the highest praise.
BATE, F/O George Gerald (J15977) - Mention
in Despatches - No.30 Squadron - Award effective 14 January 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 874/44 dated 21 April 1944. Home in Saskatoon; enlisted there 22 August
1940. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 15
November 1940), No.11 EFTS (graduated 4 January 1941) and No.9 SFTS (graduated
17 April 1941).
BATEMAN, FS Harold Victor (R53393) - Mention
in Despatches - No.424 Squadron (AFRO gives unit as No.63 Base) - Award
721/45 dated 27 April 1945. Home in
Timmins, Ontario. Enlisted in Galt,
Ontario, 30 March 1940. DHist file
181.009 D.2619 (RG.24 Vol.20628) has recommendation dated 30 August 1944 when
he had served one year in Canada, five months in North Africa, and 34 months in
The undermentioned airman has been with No.424
Squadron since its formation and NCO in charge of Squadron Armoury since its
return from North Africa. He has at all
times worked with the maximum efficiency and it has been largely through his
efforts that the squadron has been able to carry out its multifarious and
exacting work during the recent months.
BATEMAN, P/O Lewis Franklin (J86083) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.101 Squadron - Award effective 1 December 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 12 December 1944 and AFRO 337/45 dated 23 February 1945. Born 1921 in Bradford [Brantford ?],
Ontario. Home in Toronto; enlisted there
22 September 1939. Trained at No.7 ITS
(graduated 5 June 1942), No.20 EFTS (graduated 11 September 1942) and No.5 SFTS
(graduated 5 February 1943). Commissioned 1944. Medal
presented 1 April 1949. Served in
postwar RCAF. No citation other than
air operations against the enemy." Died in Toronto, 29 September 1982. Public Records Office Air 2/8881 has recommendation dated 1 September
1944 when he had flown 35 2/3 sorties (191 hours 45 minutes), 15 February to 9
15 Feb 44 Berlin 12 Jun 44 Gelsenkirchen
18 Mar 44 Frankfurt 14 Jun 44 Le Havre
22 Mar 44 Frankfurt 21 Jun 44 Wesseling
24 Mar 44 Berlin 25 Jun 44 Ligescourt
26 Mar 44 Essen 27 Jun 44 Vitry le Francois
30 Mar 44 Nuremburg 7 July 44 Vaires
10 Apr 44 Aulnoye 15 Jul 44 Nucourt
11 Apr 44 Aachen 18 Jul 44 Caen
18 Apr 44 Rouen 18 Jul 44 Scholven
20 Apr 44 Cologne 20 Jul 44 Homberg
22 Apr 44 Dusseldorf 22 Jul 44 Kiel
24 Apr 44 Munich 24 Jul 44 Stuttgart
6 May 44 Aubigbe
Racan 25 Jul 44 Wanne Eickel
9 May 44 Dunkirk
area 3 Aug 44 Tressy St.Maximum
11 May 44 Hasselt 4 Aug 44 Pauillac
24 May 44 Aachen 5 Aug 44 Blaye
31 May 44 Trappes 7 Aug 44 Fontenay le Marmion
de Cerisy 9 Aug 44 Chatellerault
11 Jun 44 Evreux
Flying Officer Bateman, a Canadian, is a pilot
of outstanding ability who has completed a highly successful tour of operations
with this squadron comprising 35 2/3 sorties
With great skill and initiative he has at all
times pressed home his attacks in the face of the strongest opposition and
carried out his allotted task with complete disregard for his own safety.
Flying Officer Bateman by his outstanding
enthusiasm and determination has set a magnificent example and his crew, imbued
with his fine offensive spirit, have been eager to engage the enemy on every
It is recommended that this officer's courage
and devotion to duty be recognized by an award of the Distinguished Flying
BATEMAN, F/O Lorenzo John (C22661) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.407 Squadron - Award effective 9 June 1944 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 1660/44 dated 4 August 1944. Born 1916 in Humboldt, Saskatchewan. Home in Winnipeg; enlisted Saskatoon, 3
October 1940. Trained at No.6 SFTS
(graduated 30 December 1942). Commissioned 1942. U-846 sunk in Bat of Biscay, 3/4 May
1944. Medal presented 22 September 1945.
degree of skill and courage in the course of his attacks on the enemy. Recently he executed a most determined attack
on a U-Boat. Despite intense opposing
fire, the attack was pressed home with great skill and resulted in the
destruction of the vessel. This officer
has completed many sorties and has set an excellent example of keenness and
BATEMAN, F/L William Maxwell (J26116) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.76 Squadron - Award effective 10 May 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 22 May 1945 and AFRO 1147/45 dated 13 July 1945. Born 1920 in Winnipeg; home in Nashville,
Tennesse (city desk guide, RROTC); enlisted Ottawa, 26 February 1942. Trained at No.5 ITS (graduated 29 August
1942), No.10 EFTS (graduated 20 November 1942) and No.1 SFTS (graduated 30
April 1943). Commissioned 1943. Medal presented in Toronto, 30 November
2/9069 (Part 1) has recommendation dated 16 February 1945 when he had flown 37
sorties (190 hours 45 minutes), 25 July 1944 to 14 February 1945. Deputy Flight Commander at the time.
12 Jul 44 Diversion
Raid (4.50) 14 Oct 44 Duisburg (5.25)
18 Jul 44 Foret
de Nieppe (3.40) 15 Oct 44 Wilhelmshaven (4.25)
du Croq (3.40) 25 Oct 44 Essen (5.00)
30 Jul 44 Villers
Bocage (4.00); 29 Oct 44 Walcheren (3.00)
returned as ordered. 31 Oct 44 Cologne
de Casson (4.05) 6 Nov 44 Gelsenkirchen (4.40)
de Nieppe (3.20) 29 Nov 44 Essen (5.40)
(5.10) 2
Dec 44 Hagen (6.40)
(5.20) 12 Dec 44 Essen (6.05)
Corff (5.45) 18 Dec
44 Duisburg (6.10)
(2.20), stbd 26 Dec 44 St.Vith (5.50)
inner unserviceable 29 Dec 44 Coblenz
Pourchante (3.15) 1 Jan 45 Dortmund (5.30)
(3.30) 5 Jan 45 Hanover (6.15)
Havre (3.50) 28
Jan 45 Stuttgart (8.00)
(3.40) 1 Feb
45 Mainz (7.05)
(4.50) 9 Feb
45 Wanne Eickel (5.50)
(5.50) 13 Feb 45 Bohlem (6.35)
9 Oct 44 Bochum
(5.25) 14 Feb 45 Chemnitz (8.05)
Since joining the squadron Flight Lieutenant
Bateman has successfully completed thirty-seven operational sorties and has
proved himself to be a very gallant and resourceful captain of aircraft. Undaunted by the heaviest enemy opposition he
has always pressed him his attacks with the greatest determination, never
satisfied unless he can make a good run up to the target.
On the 17th of August 1944, during an attack
on Brest, he returned to drop his bombs successfully on the target twenty
minutes late, having discovered that his bombs had hung up on the first attack.
It is considered that his excellent conduct on
operations merits the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.
BATES, WO1 William (R101471) - Mention in
Despatches - Western Air Command Headquarters - Western Air Command
that date and AFRO 280/46 dated 15 March 1946. Home in Vancouver; enlisted there 20 May 1941.
This Warrant Officer has been responsible for
the installation and maintenance of the many Diesel plants on the West
Coast. He has also personally supervised
and conducted the training of the majority of the Diesel Fitters at present
operating these plants. He has brought
to his duties an extraordinary capacity for hard work and his tireless efforts
to maintain efficiency have resulted in a highly satisfactory record of
continuous performance of the plants under his supervision.
BATTEN, LAC Francis Lang Courtney (R95022) - Mention
in Despatches - No.408 Squadron - Award effective 1 January 1945 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 721/45 dated 27 April 1945. Home in Brandon, Manitoba; Fitter IIE. No citation in AFRO but DHist file 181.009
D.1719 (PAC RG.24 Vol.20606) has recommendation dated 31 July 1944; enlisted in
Winnipeg, 12 February 1941; served seven months in Canada, 34 months in UK.
This airman, by his fine record of
achievement, has earned the praise of all members of aircrew with whim he has
come in contact. His sterling devotion
to duty at all times by doing more than his share has proven him to be an
outstanding airman.
BATTY, F/L Arthur Watson (J7427) - Commended
for Valuable Services - No.3 Bombing and Gunnery School - Award effective
July 1945. Home in Hartney, manitoba;
enlisted Winnipeg, 12 November 1940. Trained at No.3 ITS (graduated 22 April 1941), No.2 EFTS (graduated 21
June 1941) and No.6 SFTS (graduated 13 Seotember 1941).
Flight Lieutenant Batty has been employed on
staff pilot duties at this unit for a period of three years. During this time
he has carried out flying duties in all phases of gunnery training in a highly
capable manner. He has been a flight
commander for nearly two years and has been recently appointed officer
commanding armament training squadron. His devotion to duty and ability are well above the average.
BAUSET, F/O Joseph Clement Pierre (J23639) - Mention
in Despatches - No.431 Squadron - Award effective 14 June 1945 as per
London Gazette of that date and AFRO 1478/45 dated 21 September 1945. Born in Montreal, 31 July 1923; home there;
enlisted there 12 December 1941. Trained
at No.3 ITS (graduated 3 July 1942), No.2 AOS (graduated 5 February 1943) and
No.8 BGS (graduated 10 December 1942). Commissioned 5 February 1943. Arrived in UK, 17 March 1943; to No.3 (O) AFU, 4 May 1943; to No.22 OTU,
1 June 1943; to No.1664 CU, 28 August 1943; to No.431 Squadron, 26 September
1943. Reported missing, 25/16 November
1943 on fourth mission; baled out over France, evaded capture; reported safe in
Switzerland, 18 January 1944; reported safe in UK, 19 September 1944;
repatriated to Canada, 9 December 1944; released 3 April 1945. Served in postwar RCAF Auxiliary (25 March
1954 to 16 July 1961) and a flying controller.
BAWDEN, FS Russell (Can 18015A) - British
Empire Medal - No.7 Photo Wing - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per Canada
Gazette of that date and AFRO 82/46 dated 25 January 1946 - Home in London,
Ontario; enlisted there 8 September 1939. Medal presented 9 December 1947.
This non-commissioned officer for the past two
years in charge of camera operations with the Tri-metrogen survey squadron, has
proven himself a key man. His untiring
efforts, under very difficult conditions, to keep equipment in working order,
his instructive ability and devotion to his responsible tasks have instilled
those who work on detachment with him to keep pace with a very difficult and
tedious assignment. His skill and
leadership are outstanding.
BAWTREE, F/L Leonard (J35650) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.625 Squadron - Award effective 23 November 1945 as per London
Gazette dated 4 December and AFRO 212/46 dated 1 March 1946. Born January 1924 in Enderbury, British
Columbia; home there (logger); enlisted Vancouver, 10 July 1942. Trained at No.7 ITS (graduated 3 April 1943),
No.23 EFTS (graduated 29 May 1943) and No.11 SFTS (graduated 1 October
1943). Commissioned September
1943. Medal presented at Sea Island, 22
October 1949. No citation other than
invariably displayed the utmost fortitude, courage and devotion to duty". Public Records Office Air 2/8772 has
recommendation dated 2 June 1945 when he had flown 26 sorties (158 hours), 22
Novmber 1944 to 11 May 1945.
22 Nov 44 Freiburg 23 Mar 45 Bremen 1 Feb 45 Mannheim 27 Mar 45 Paderborn
2 Feb 45 Weisbaden 31 Mar 45 Hamburg
7 Feb 45 Cleve 10 Apr 45 Plauen
8 Feb 45 Politz 13 Apr 45 GARDENING (Kiel)
21 Feb 45 Duisburg 14 Apr 45 Potsdam
23 Feb 45 Pforzheim 18 Apr 45 Heligoland
8 Mar 45 Kassel 22 Apr 45 Bremen - returned with
11 Mar 45 Essen bombs
on orders of 12 Mar 45 Dortmund Master
15 Mar 45 Misburg 29 Apr 45 MANNA (The Hague)
16 Mar 45 Nuremburg 30 Apr 45 MANNA (The Hague)
18 Mar 45 Hanau 3 May 45 MANNA (Rotterdam)
21 Mar 45 Bruchstrasse 11 May 45 EXODUS (Brussels)
Flight Lieutenant Bawtree is the Canadian
captain and pilot of a Lancaster aircraft and has completed 26 sorties,
comprising 150 hours operational flying. He has taken part in attacks against many heavily defended targets
including Mannheim, Politz, Duisburg, Nuremburg, and Potsdam, pressing home his
attacks regardless of enemy opposition.
Many of his sorties have been of long
duration, but despite fatigue, bad weather conditions and heavy opposition he
has always lightened the burden for his crew by his cheerfulness and
Flight Lieutenant Bawtree has always shown a
keen desire to operate against the furthest and most heavily defended targets
and his fine example of courage and devotion to duty recommend him for an award
BAXTER, F/O Frank Dennis (J27670) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.432 Squadron - Award effective 6 April 1945 as per London
Gazette of that date and AFRO 765/45 dated 4 May 1945. Born 1915 in Winnipeg; home there (salesman);
enlisted Calgary, 15 June 1942. Trained
at No.7 ITS (graduated 4 December 1942), No.6 EFTS (graduated 19 February 1943)
and No.4 SFTS (graduated 25 June 1943). Commissioned 1943. Medal
presented 9 July 1949. Recommended 15
January 1945 when he had flown 15 sorties (83 hours 25 minutes), 25 September
to 29 December 1944. Incident was on
night of 29 December 1944.
One night in December 1944, Flying Officer
Baxter was captain of an aircraft detailed to attack Troisdorf. On the return flight the aircraft was hit by
anti-aircraft fire and two engines were rendered unserviceable. In spite of this and although deprived of the
full services of his navigator, who was severely wounded, Flying Officer Baxter
was determined if at all possible to bring his damaged aircraft to base. That he succeeded in so doing is a splendid
tribute to his outstanding skill and courage. This officer set a magnificent example of devotion to duty.
NOTE: The original recommendation is with DHist file 181.009 D.5557 (RG.24
Volume 20668). It makes good reading and
is worth comparing to the final citation:
On the night of 29th December, 1944, this
officer was captain of aircraft detailed to attack Trois-Dorf [sic]. On the return journey, in the vicinity of
Liege, his aircraft was heavily hit by flak and two engines rendered
unserviceable. The navigator was
severely injured and the Bomb Aimer, misinterpreting orders, baled out. Flying Officer Baxter, faced with wounded
crew members and with the aircraft almost beyond control, made the courageous
decision to carry on, with complete disregard to personal safety in an attempt
to return to base. The return trip was
hazardous and weather conditions were most unfavourable for landing even an
aircraft that was completely serviceable. By skilful airmanship under the most trying conditions, Flying Officer
Baxter succeeded in making a remarkable two-engined landing at Woodbridge.
For his dogged determination in the interests
of his comrades and his exceptional skill and resources against overwhelming
odds he is strongly recommended for the award of the DFC (Immediate).
BAYLY, S/L George Henry Uniacke (J5810) - Distinguished
Flying Cross - No.413 Squadron - Award effective 20 December 1944 as per London
Gazette dated 2 January 1945 and AFRO 471/45 dated 16 March 1945. Born 1918 in Toronto; home there (educated
University of Toronto; ex-Royal Canadian Artillery); enlisted there 11 October
1940. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 27
January 1941), No.1 EFTS (graduated 17 March 1941) and No.2 SFTS (graduated 16
June 1941). Commissioned 1941. Medal sent by registered mail 11 August 1945.
operational duty during which he has completed many long and arduous patrols
over the Atlantic, Arctic and Indian oceans. On one occasion he attacked and damaged an enemy submarine which was
about to attack a convoy. On another
occasion he completed one of the longest reconnaissances on record. This involved a twenty-eight hour flight of
more than 3,000 miles over the sea. In
addition, Squadron Leader Bayley has co-operated with the Navy in rescuing a
number of merchant seamen. He has at all
times displayed courage and devotion to duty of a high order.
BAYNE, F/O Robert Joseph (J24725) - Distinguished
Gazette dated 13 October 1944 and AFRO 2637/44 dated 8 December 1944. Born 1918 in Montreal; home in Ottawa
(ex-Royal Canadian Army Signal Corps); enlisted Ottawa 1 June 1942. Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 6 November
1942) and No.1 AOS (graduated 19 March 1943). Commissioned 1943. Flew two
tours. Medal presented 28 February
2/9026 has recommendation dated 20 July 1944 when he had flown 33 sorties (149
hours 45 minutes), 7 March to 19 July 1944.
7 Mar 44 Le
Mans (5.20)* 28 May 44 Dunkirk (2.00)
Mans (5.35)* 11 June 44 Tours (5.05)
(8.00) 15 June 44 Lens (2.35)
(5.20) 17 June 44 Calais (1.55)
22 Mar 44 Frankfort
(6.25) 24 June 44 Calais (1.50)
(8.20) 25 June 44 Calais (1.40)
(5.05) 28 June 44 Abbeville (2.15)
(8.10) 29 June 44 Metz (5.10)
(5.30)* 30 June 44 Villers Bocage (2.30)#
(4.20)* 2 July 44 Abbeville (2.00)#
(7.00) 5 July 44 St.Omer (1.45)#
(5.00) 6 July 44 Abbeville (2.35)#
(4.40)* 7 July 44 Caen (1.45)#
(4.20)* 9 July 44 Dunkirk (2.55)#
19 May 44 Calais
(2.00) 10 July 44 Paris (3.10)#
(3.40) 12 July 44 Paris (2.55)
22 May 44 Dortmund
(3.45) 15 July 44 Nucourt (3.30)
25 May 44 Aachen
(3.30) 19 July 44 Rollez (3.00)
This officer is a skilled Navigator in a
highly successful crew. Flying Officer Bayne has a long and varied operational
career and has on many occasions been placed in imminent peril. In spite of this fact he has not swerved from
his allotted tasks, but has shown a coolness and dogged determination under
fire which is most commendable. The magnificent example set by this officer has
done much to keep the morale of his fellow crew members at a very high
standard. Strongly recommended for the
BAYNE, F/L Robert Joseph, DFC (J24725) - Bar
to Distinguished Flying Cross - No.405 Squadron - Award effective 15 March
1945 as per London Gazette dated 23 March 1945 and AFRO 802/45 dated 11
Cross, Flight Lieutenant Bayne has continued to perform his missions in a most
praiseworthy manner. He is an extremely
efficient member of a most reliable crew. His skill, courage and devotion to duty have been an incentive to his
NOTE: Public Records Office Air 2/9050 has
recommendation dated 20 December 1944 when he had flown 53 sorties (253 hours
55 minutes) of which 20 sorties (90 hours were since previous award. Added sorties and unpublished text as
3 Aug 44 Isle
d'Adam (2.50) 29 Aug 44 Stettin (8.35)
4 Aug 44 Trossy
St.Maximim (3.00) 15 Sep 44 Kiel (5.10)
5 Aug 44 Novelle
(3.00) 5 Oct 44 Saarbrucken (4.50)
(2.30) 6 Oct
44 Dortmund (4.50)
8 Aug 44 Foret
de Lucheux (2.55) 14 Oct 44 Duisburg (3.55)
12 Aug 44 Russelsheim
(4.30) 15 Oct 44 Wilhelmshaven (4.05)
Oct 44 Stuttgart (5.25)
(4.50) 31 Oct 44 Cologne (4.10)
(7.15) 2 Nov 44 Dusseldorf (4.10)
(5.25) 9
Nov 44 Wanne Eickel (3.35)
Flight Lieutenant Bayne is an outstanding
navigator in a highly successful crew which has now completed two tours of
operations. Amongst the many heavily defended enemy areas this officer has
attacked are Berlin, Stuttgart and Frankfurt. Invariably and without
reservations, this officer has carried out his operational missions in a manner
which reflects great credit upon him. The skill, courage and devotion to duty
displayed by Flight Lieutenant Bayne has been an inspiration and incentive to
his fellow crew members.