P/O Thomas Forbes - Lancaster Bomber Pilot - 12 Squadron RAFVR - 12 Squadron Airmen and Commanding Officers

12 Squadron Airmen and Commanding Officers

Commanding Officer: W/C Wood, Richard Sidney Clements DSO DFC ... 39192

Retired from the RAF in 1947 and in 1950 joined the African Affairs Department. He died serving that organization in Rhodesia in 1969

He was born in 1914, the son of an insurance official and was at Dulwich College between 1927 and 1931. He joined the RAF as a pupil pilot in 1936

W/C Wood flew as second pilot on numerous occasions with inexperienced or problem crews

The London Gazette of Friday 24 September 1943 contains the following from his DSO citation:

'Since being awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, this officer has completed many sorties, including attacks on well defended targets in the Ruhr area. His work has been of a high order throughout and has set a standard worthy of emulation. By his skilful leadership, sound judgment and initiative, Wing Commander Wood has contributed materially to the many successes obtained by his squadron.'

Flight Commander: S/L Villiers, DAVID HUGH ... 87068

David Villiers was flying operationally at 12 Squadron in January 1943

Capt: F/S Wells, MAURICE JAMISON DFM ... 411961 RNZAF

Aged 24, a civil engineer from Christchurch, New Zealand - Tall, gentle, quiet and unassuming

After his 12 Sqn tour, F/S Wells was posted to a Conversion Unit then was involved in glider-towing operations before and after D-Day

Nav: Sgt Galloway, JOE DFC, DFM ... 1040433

Aged 23, a ginger-haired Geordie from Darlington

Completed a second tour which included the infamous Nuremburg raid

W/T: P/O Girdlestone, TREVOR .W DFC ... 80413

Aged 22, a tall good-looking Rhodesian who had failed a pilot's course but was nevertheless competent at the controls

Not sure whether he completed a second tour but returned to Rhodesia after the war and carried on life as a farmer

B/A: Sgt Moore, TOMMY

Aged 19, a quiet happy chap from Leicester who joined the RAF direct from school

Did not complete a second tour but after the war went to college and eventually gained a medical degree, then emigrated to Canada

Dr. Thomas (Tommy) Moore MD, FRCS, FACS, FACOG died in 1991. Douglas Eades wrote in the 35th Wickenby Register Newsletter that he always remembered Tommy as a young cheerful chap whose only addiction was his liking for the 'Java Jive' - a popular tune of that time sung by the Mills' Brothers (or was it the Ink Spots?).. He was our bomb aimer and as such was determined to perform his duties as effectively as possible. He was aware that at the crucial point of any operation we were all there for his benefit and that he held the leading role in the unfolding heavy and grisly drama. In his cool and and unhurried way he always made sure of his target which was much instanced by an occasion when 'coned' by searchlights for ten minutes over Bochum and being constantly peppered by flak he obtained the best target photograph of the night! Neither was he put off by the fact that in almost similar circumstances over Stettin a shell exploded near to the nose cap of our Lancaster (V-Vic) which was holed and blew Tommy to the rear of the bombing compartment. His face was lacerated but he was rescued and tidied up by Harry who then plugged the hole in the nose cap, as best he could, with a Mae West.

After the war Tommy went to college and then on to medical school. Subsequently he did post graduate studies and became a consultant in Obstetrics and Gynaecology. His interest in medicine had been lifelong but in addition he had developed a feeling of need to do something to try and make amends for the terrible death and destruction of which he had been part during the war. In 1958 in emigrated to Canada and completed his studies in Montreal and having developed a liking for a rural lifestyle he settled in Prince Edward Island which suited him perfectly. It was here that he was able to carry out his humane work with compassion and kindliness which is so typical of those working in the medical profession.

F/E: Sgt Moreton, HARRY

Aged 21, a quiet and friendly engine fitter from Blackpool. Completely unflappable

Completed a second tour. Promoted to Warrant Officer, he remained in the RAF on permanent appointment after the war

M/U: Sgt Eades, DOUGLAS ... 935253

Posted to 81 OTU after completion of tour and after a time instructing completed a second tour flying Halifaxes in India

R/G: Sgt Terry, RAY

Aged 22, another good-looking Rhodesian. Voluble and extrovert

Lived in Birmingham after the war, not sure about a second tour

This crew completed their 12 Squadron operational tour after the raid to Gelsenkirchen - 25 June 1943

They mostly flew Lancaster W4990 V - Victor which also survived the war

Capt: Sgt Tribe, DAVID FRANCIS DFM ... R128945 RCAF - Completed Operational Tour

Distinguished Flying Medal - No.12 Squadron

Award effective 4 October 1943 as per London Gazette dated 19 October 1943 and AFRO 2437/43 dated 26 November 1943. Born 1919 in British Columbia; home in Pinner, Middlesex or in Courtney, British Columbia (mechanic); enlisted Vancouver, 15 September 1941. Trained at No.4 ITS (graduated 30 December 1941), No.18 EFTS (graduated 13 March 1942) and No.15 SFTS (graduated 17 July 1942). Invested with award by King George, 17 October 1944

A reliable and courageous captain of aircraft, Sergeant Tribe has participated in attacks on some of the enemy's most important targets including Berlin, Hamburg, Essen and Peenemunde. He has a fine fighting spirit and always presses home his attack with the greatest determination and courage. In March 1943 he showed outstanding ability and resolution in completing his mission although his aircraft was severely iced up on the way to the target.

Sgt Tribe and crew were initially posted to 12 Squadron in March 1943

Nav: F/O Furnell, H.L

W/T: Sgt Thompson, J.E

B/A: Sgt Moore, G.D DFM ... 1315725

F/E: Sgt Collier, GEOFF T ... Completed Operational Tour

M/U: Sgt Hilderbrand, H.W

R/G: Sgt Hill, H.J

Capt: P/O Mizon, WARREN FREDERICK DFC ... 412172 RAAF

Nav: P/O Stenborg, HAROLD OLAF DFC ... 408710 RAAF

W/T: F/S Smith, R.S

W/T: F/S Purslow, G.W DFC ... 616277

W/T: F/S Neale, C.L

B/A: Sgt Smale, THOMAS GERALD ... KIA - 1317420 - Sunday, 13th June 1943 - Age 21 - Bochum

Sgt Thomas Smale from Cornwall, known to his family as Gerald, joined the RAF after his elder brother George was killed in 1940, serving with the Merchant Navy.

B/A: Sgt Turner, H.T

F/E: Sgt Peckham, J.E DFM ... 1453365

M/U: F/S Straker, R.T DFC ... 144955

M/U: F/O Haddingham

R/G: F/S Curran, W DFC ... 408567

Capt: W/C Young, RALPH ERSKINE DFC DSO ... POW - 44659 - Saturday, 29th January 1944 - Age ? - Berlin (7 Sqn)

W/C Young was an Old Watsonian and had graduated from Edinburgh University with a first class honours degree in civil engineering. In 1936, he was commissioned into the Royal Engineers and at the outbreak of war he was serving in Hong Kong. Transferring to the RAF in 1940, he flew fighters prior to a bomber conversion and joining the PFF. In the post war years he served in Transport Command, before returning to the army. Retiring as a Lieutenant-Colonel, he ran the RE Flying Club, as well as taking an interest in the affairs of 104 (City of Edinburgh) Field Squadron. He died on 18 April 1995.

The London Gazette of Friday 3 March 1944 contains the following from his DSO citation:

'This officer has completed a very large number of sorties and has displayed great skill and determination, qualities which have earned him many successes. On a recent occasion, whilst over Berlin his aircraft was hit by shrapnel. One of the main tanks was pierced and much petrol was lost. Nevertheless, Wing Commander Young displayed good judgment and much skill in using the engines to conserve the petrol available and thus succeeded in reaching England. He is a fearless captain whose example has inspired all.'

Nav: P/O Burger, THOMAS DFC ... KIA - 133462 - Saturday, 29th January 1944 - Age 21 - Berlin (7 Sqn)

W/T: Sgt Hodges, E

B/A: Sgt Evans, T.H DFC .... 1379998 (7 Sqn)

F/E: Sgt Calton, J.K

M/U: Sgt Goodman, J.G

R/G: Sgt Boynton, J.W DFM ... 1128563 (7 Sqn)

Lancaster III JB717 MG-V

Capt: Sgt Hill, NORMAN ERNEST ... KIA - 148446 - Sunday, 4th July 1943 - Age 20 - Cologne

Sgt Hill and crew were initially posted to 12 Squadron in March 1943

Capt: [2nd Pilot] Young, C.W ... POW - Stalag Kopernikus

Nav: Sgt Capp, LESLIE STANLEY ... KIA - 1350937 - Sunday, 4th July 1943 - Age 21 - Cologne

W/T: Sgt Barham, SAM ... KIA - 1127161 - Sunday, 4th July 1943 - Age 24 - Cologne

B/A: Sgt Whitelock, STEWART ... KIA - 1382323 - Sunday, 4th July 1943 - Age 21 - Cologne

F/E: Sgt Foy, JOHN EDWIN ... KIA - 1230508 - Sunday, 4th July 1943 - Age 21 - Cologne

M/U: Sgt Everton, LESLIE HAROLD ... KIA - 1119284 - Sunday, 4th July 1943 - Age 22 - Cologne

R/G: Sgt Eversfield, SIDNEY ERIC ... KIA - R/54015 RCAF - Sunday, 4th July 1943 - Age 37 - Cologne

Lancaster III ED820 PH-A

Capt: Sgt McMillan, DUNCAN JAMES DFC ... Completed Operational Tour - RCAF

Award effective 4 October 1943 as per London Gazette dated 19 October 1943 and AFRO 2322/43 dated 12 November 1943. Born in Landis, Saskatchewan, 1919; home there; enlisted Saskatoon, 17 June 1941. Trained at No.4 ITS (graduated 11 September 1941), No.6 EFTS (graduated 8 November 1941) and No.11 SFTS (graduated 27 February 1942). Commissioned 1943. Medal presented 11 August 1944.

As captain of aircraft this officer has completed many operational sorties including attacks on such heavily defended targets as Essen, Hamburg, Spezia and Stettin. Regardless of opposition he has invariably attacked his target with the greatest determination, and by his fine leadership and sustained courage has contributed in no small measure to the successes achieved.

Nav: F/S Hesketh, K.G

W/T: Sgt Orr, G.A

B/A: Sgt Hall, G.G

F/E: Sgt Randall, J.L

M/U: Sgt Gershaw, J

R/G: Sgt Myers, L

Capt: F/S Lawrence, CHARLES OLIVER ALFRED "LAURIE" DFM ... 1271045

F/S Lawrence and crew were initially posted to 12 Squadron in March 1943

Nav: F/O Kettles, WILLIAM MILLARDFC ... 120040

W/T: Sgt Jackson, A ... 1197661

B/A: F/S Cruse, BERT .C

Douglas Eades (see top) mentions an amusing incident invovling F/S Cruse. Crews from 12, 100 and 460 Squadrons were met at Binbrook at Group Captain 'Hughie' Edwards - the Station Commander - then by no other than the King and Queen

'When returning from laying mines off Danzig they were attacked by a JU 88 and both gunners were badly wounded. Their aircraft had been badly damaged, they were obliged to land at RAF Coltishall and their gunners taken to hospital. Their wireless operator had been more fortunate. An unexploded 20mm cannon shell had lodged in the hydraulic reservoir just above his head. The was recovered and eventually handed to their bomb aimer - F/Sgt Bert Cruse - a young Canadian from Winnipeg. On being introduced to Their Majesties by their skipper, Bert was holding the cannon shell and the Queen asked him how he came by it. After telling his story the Queen commented sympathically, 'What a terrifying object,' to which Bert rejoined in his slow Canadian drawl, 'Yes Ma'am it certainly put the sh ...' He paused and the Queen quickly interjected by replying, 'I can well imagine it did young man.'

F/E: Sgt Hill, W.C DFM ... 955132

M/U: Sgt Evans, M

R/G: F/O Edwards, JOHN TREVOR DFC ... 142509

Capt: Sgt Alexander, IAN HAMILTON ... KIA - 39668 RNZAF - Thursday, 13th May 1943 - Age 22 - Duisburg

Nav: F/S Fraser, RICHARD DOUGLAS ... KIA - R/119693 RCAF - Thursday, 13th May 1943 - Age 22 - Duisburg

W/T: Sgt Stephens, JOHN ACKROYD ... KIA - 1179576 - Thursday, 13th May 1943 - Age ? - Duisburg

B/A: Sgt Harrison, EDGAR DAVID ... KIA - 1455360 - Thursday, 13th May 1943 - Age 19 - Duisburg

F/E: Sgt Rome, EDWIN ... KIA - 1377787 - Thursday, 13th May 1943 - Age 33 - Duisburg

M/U: Sgt Bell, RONALD ... KIA - 1021071 - Thursday, 13th May 1943 - Age 32 - Duisburg

R/G: F/S Williams, DAVID HUGH ... KIA - 618117 - Thursday, 13th May 1943 - Age 23 - Duisburg

Lancaster III ED476 PH-N

Capt: F/O Gillman, MERVYN DURHAM DFC ... KIA - 404333 RAAF - 16.1.44 - Accident - Age 25

Born in York, Western Australia, Mervyn was a Student before joining up

The DFC citation reads as follows:

"Pilot Officer Gillman is an exceptionally able captain of aircraft who has consistently completed successful sorties during his operational tour. On a recent raid on Hamburg he displayed outstanding determination to reach and bomb the target. He was compelled to fly through very adverse weather on the outward journey and after reaching the objective he searched for twenty minutes before establishing the target and releasing his bombs. This officer's skilful handling of aircraft and splendid record of achievement have been an example to all in the squadron".

Also see the Roy Bell page for an update regarding F/O Gillman

Nav: P/O Pearson, H.W DFC ... 149312

W/T: Sgt Anderson, J.G

B/A: Sgt Bell, R.W

F/E: Sgt Smith, LEONARD WILLIAM - Completed Operational Tour

Leonard was with 12 Sqn from Nov 1942 to October 1943

M/U: F/S Wicks, WILLIAM ROSS DFM ... KIA - 420369 - Monday, 27th September 1943 - Age 21 - William was wounded during operations and tragically died before reaching England. He is buried in Cambridge City Cemetery.

I have recently been in touch with a relative of William 'Billy' Wicks. Billy grew up in the Inverell district in the New England Tablelands in New South Wales. Also see Roll of Honour

R/G: Sgt Miller, ANDREW STANLEY DFM ... 416661 RNZAF

Please see Photo Album for images of F/S Wicks

Capt: W/O Salthouse, WILFRID ... KIA - 1434098 - Wednesday, 28th July 1943 - Age 21 - Hamburg

Nav: P/O Lynch, PAUL ... KIA - 131908 - Wednesday, 28th July 1943 - Age 32 - Hamburg

W/T: Sgt Lee, JOHN PATRICK ... KIA - 1382920 - Wednesday, 28th July 1943 - Age 20 - Hamburg

B/A: Sgt Darwish, DERWISH HAJ ... KIA - 986740 - Wednesday, 28th July 1943 - Age ? - Hamburg

F/E: Sgt Hamill, EDWARD ... KIA - 523827 - Wednesday, 28th July 1943 - Age 28 - Hamburg

M/U: Sgt Woolford, REGINALD JOHN ... KIA - 1323920 - Wednesday, 28th July 1943 - Age 21 - Hamburg

M/U: Sgt Rees, E.T

R/G: Sgt Bartlett, PERCIVAL JOHN ... POW - Stalag Muhlberg-Elbe

Lancaster III EE142 PH-G

Capt: F/S Smitheringale, K.B DFC ... 1319581

Note: F/S Smitheringale was flying for 101 Squadron during April 1943

Nav: F/O Kingman, L DFC ... 127059

W/T: Sgt Muge, H.E

B/A: Sgt Hall, W

F/E: P/O Brewer, R.J DFC ... 148509

M/U: Sgt Milton, P.R

R/G: P/O Lancaster, R DFC ... 159655

Capt: Sgt Scott, G.V

Nav: F/S Russell, G.H DFM ... 655116

W/T: Sgt Mitchell, LAWRENCE DOUGLAS (See Forbes Crew)

B/A: Sgt Rees, R.F

F/E: Sgt Bedford, H.T

M/U: F/O Phillips, PHILLIP HENRY - After surviving the ditching flew with S/LDR Slade, ultimately perishing at Peenumunde - Age 20

R/G: Sgt Range, L.F

Sgt Scott and crew were reported missing after the operation to Bochum - 13.5.43 - They had ditched and were picked up a Minesweeper on 19.5.43 and returned to the squadron 3 days later

Sgt Mitchell then flew with my Grandfather, and survived another sea crash hence his Goldfish and Bar!

Capt: F/S Brown, MURRAY GORDON DFC ... 401911 RAAF - Completed Operational Tour

Nav: F/S Pritchet, M.O "Johnny" ... RAAF - Completed Operational Tour

W/T: Sgt Brooks, EDWARD "Ted" DFC DFM ... Did two tours of duty; one with 12 Squadron and one with 460 Squadron

B/A: F/S Kauter, FREDERICK JOHN DFC ... 413607 RAAF - Completed Operational Tour

F/E: Sgt Evans, ARTHUR "Taffy" ... (From Swansea in Wales) - Completed Operational Tour

M/U: Sgt Gawn, HARRY ... Completed Operational Tour

Came from Cowes on the Isle of Wight. Harry had been in the Service Police, before remustering to Aircrew, and at 32 was the oldest in the crew - Retired after 11 trips

M/U: Sgt Addisall, G.W

R/G: F/S Dunshea, STUART MACKENZIE DFM ... 414663 RAAF - Completed Operational Tour

Three more Mid Upper Gunners; Harry Binder, K.V. Robinson and Sam Williams flew with the crew

Please see Photo Album for images of F/s Brown, F/S Pritchet, Sgt Brooks, F/S Kauter, Sgt Evans & F/S Dunshea

Capt: F/S Tucker, WILLIAM JOHN ... KIA - 416633 RAAF - Tuesday, 15th June 1943 - Age 26 - Oberhausen

Before joining up William was a Bank Official in Adelaide, South Australia

Nav: P/O Truelove, K ... POW - Stalag Luft III Sagan

W/T: Sgt Simpson, JOHN JOHNSTON ... KIA - 1045724 - Tuesday, 15th June 1943 - Age 26 - Oberhausen

B/A: Sgt Davies, BRINLEY OLIVER ... KIA - 1313708 - Tuesday, 15th June 1943 - Age 24 - Oberhausen

F/E: Sgt McKay, FRANK GORDON ... KIA - 39570 RNZAF - Tuesday, 15th June 1943 - Age 22 - Oberhausen

M/U: Sgt Fletcher, REGINALD ... KIA - 1088071 - Tuesday, 15th June 1943 - Age 20 - Oberhausen

R/G: Sgt Carter, THOMAS ... KIA - 1300587 - Tuesday, 15th June 1943 - Age 21 - Oberhausen

Lancaster III W4992 GZ-A Bar

Capt: Sgt Morgan, FREDERICK WILLIAM ... KIA - 412618 RAAF - Friday, 14th May 1943 - Age 30 - Bochum

Frederick was born in Orange, New South Wales and was a Grazier in Forbes, NSW before joining up

Frederick's Brother, Sgt HENRY BLANCHARD MORGAN - 402451 RAAF was also lost - 12.10.41 - Aged 23

Nav: Sgt Fountain, G.L ... POW - Stalag Luft Heydekrug

W/T: Sgt MaGinnis, R ... POW - Stalag Luft III Sagan

B/A: Sgt Walker, KENNETH JAMES .G ... POW - Stalag Luft Heydekrug

F/E: Sgt Foster, KENNETH ... KIA - 1061305 RAAF - Friday, 14th May 1943 - Age ? - Bochum

M/U: F/S Richmond, JOHN REGINALD ... KIA - R/114345 RCAF - Friday, 14th May 1943 - Age 31 - Bochum

See Reggie Richmond special section and Photo Album for more

R/G: Sgt Spiece, GORDON THOMAS ... POW RCAF - Stalag Luft IV Sagan

Lancaster I W4266 PH-R

Capt: S/LDR Slade, FRASER BURSTOCK DSO ... KIA - 43416 - Wednesday, 18th August 1943 - Age 31 - Peenemunde

The London Gazette of Friday 24 September 1943 contains the following from his DSO citation:

'This officer has displayed outstanding ability and unswerving devotion in the execution of operational tasks. He completed very many sorties in the Middle East theatre, achieving much success. Since his return to this country, Squadron Leader Slade has undertaken numerous sorties against various targets in Germany and Italy. His ideal leadership and unconquerable spirit have set an example worthy of the highest praise.'

Nav: F/O Carpenter, GEORGE RALPH ... KIA - 142131 - Wednesday, 18th August 1943 - Age 23 - Peenemunde

Nav: F/L Gardiner, R.E ... Completed Operational Tour(s)? - F/L Gardiner was flying operationally at 12 Squadron in Jan '43

W/T: F/S MacIntyre, JOHN FRANCIS BELL ... KIA - 148279 - Wednesday, 18th August 1943 - Age 21 - Peenemunde

B/A: P/O Manning, CECIL WALTER ALVIN ... KIA - 148492 - Wednesday, 18th August 1943 - Age ? - Peenemunde

B/A: Sgt Thomas, G.D ... Completed Operational Tour(s)? - Sgt Thomas was flying operationally at 12 Squadron in Jan '43

F/E: Sgt Chapman, STANLEY ... KIA - 930738 - Wednesday, 18th August 1943 - Age ? - Peenemunde

F/E: Sgt Baxter, P.O ... Completed Operational Tour(s)? - Sgt Baxter was flying operationally at 12 Squadron in Jan '43

M/U: F/O Phillips, PHILLIP HENRY ... KIA - 409451 RAAF - Wednesday, 18th August 1943 - Age 23 - Peenemunde

Born in Melbourne, Victoria, Phillip was a clerk before joining up

Phillip's Brother - Private RONALD JOHN PHILLIPS - VX54175 - 2/2 Pioneer Bn AIF - was also lost 24.7.43 - Aged 25

M/U: F/L Saunders, IAN WILLIAM DFC ... KIA - 133458 - Saturday, 29th July 1944 - Age 24 - Stuttgart

(Had completed first operational tour 22.07.43 and was flying operationally at 12 Squadron in January 1943)

R/G: Sgt Myers, LEONARD ... KIA - 1533554 - Wednesday, 18th August 1943 - Age 29 - Peenemunde

R/G: Sgt Prowse, NORMAN .F ... Completed Operational Tour(s)? - Norman was flying operationally at 12 Squadron in Jan '43

Lancaster III DV168 PH-F

Capt: P/O Ashburner, NORMAN ... KIA - 128583 - Tuesday, 24th August 1943 - Age 27 - Berlin

Norman was born on 21 April 1916. He worked with his father as a carpenter/coachbuilder/undertaker in the village of Urswick, Cumbria before enlisting. Norman's pilot training was conducted in Winnipeg, Canada, where he turned down the opportunity of continuing there as a flying instructor, preferring to return home to operational duty. His Lancaster had been named "Little Audrey" by himself and/or his crew. The significance of this choice isn't known.

Nav: P/O Bye, VERNER CHARLES ... KIA - 134381 - Tuesday, 24th August 1943 - Age 28 - Berlin

W/T: Sgt Gleeson, THOMAS JAMES ... KIA - 655120 - Tuesday, 24th August 1943 - Age ? - Berlin

B/A: P/O Laverick, HAROLD ... KIA - 132846 - Tuesday, 24th August 1943 - Age 21 - Berlin

F/E: Sgt Barrass, RICHARD ... KIA - 1081897 - Tuesday, 24th August 1943 - Age ? - Berlin

M/U: Sgt Fraser, GEORGE WILLIAM ... KIA - R/65162 RCAF - Tuesday, 24th August 1943 - Age 26 - Berlin

R/G: Sgt Peace, WALTER THOMAS ... KIA - 1580573 - Tuesday, 24th August 1943 - Age ? - Berlin

Lancaster III DV158 PH-A2

Please see Photo Album for images of Sgt Barrass and P/O Ashburner

Capt: Sgt Steele, ROBERT JAMES ... KIA - 655242 - Wednesday, 26th May 1943 - Age 24 - Dusseldorf

Nav: P/O Hooper, CECIL BERTIE (BOB) ... KIA - 129598 - Wednesday, 26th May 1943 - Age 21 - Dusseldorf

W/T: Sgt Powell, EDWARD TEMPLE ... KIA - 1082026 - Wednesday, 26th May 1943 - Age 23 - Dusseldorf

B/A: Sgt Creevy, DOUGLAS WILLIAM ... KIA - 1330741 - Wednesday, 26th May 1943 - Age 22 - Dusseldorf

F/E: Sgt Prowse, ALEXANDER ALWYN ... KIA - 21144 RAAF - Wednesday, 26th May 1943 - Age 26 - Dusseldorf

Born in Adelong, New South Wales, Alexander was a Salesman before joining up

M/U: Sgt Bailey, SYDNEY ARTHUR JAMES ... KIA - 1332267 - Wednesday, 26th May 1943 - Age 21 - Dusseldorf

R/G: F/S Schroeder, LESLIE CHARLES ... KIA - 1339266 - Wednesday, 26th May 1943 - Age 20 - Dusseldorf

Lancaster III ED967 PH-F

Capt: S/LDR Knight, FREDERICK JOHN ... KIA - 40304 - Tuesday, 29th June 1943 - Age 27 - Cologne

Nav: F/O Treherne, HOWARD CEDRIC ... KIA - J/16069 RCAF - Tuesday, 29th June 1943 - Age 22 - Cologne

W/T: Sgt Ayerst, FRANCIS DONOVAN ... KIA - 1377776 - Tuesday, 29th June 1943 - Age 31 - Cologne

B/A: F/S Noble, MERVYN BARNABY ... KIA - 777884 - Tuesday, 29th June 1943 - Age 22 - Cologne

Mervyn came from Umtali in Southern Rhodesia

F/E: Sgt Lawrence, ERNEST FREDERICK ... KIA - 1237208 - Tuesday, 29th June 1943 - Age 20 - Cologne

M/U: Sgt Birkin, FRANK ... KIA - 621280 - Tuesday, 29th June 1943 - Age 23 - Cologne

R/G: Sgt Boxall, JAMES ROY ... KIA - 1387360 - Tuesday, 29th June 1943 - Age 19 - Cologne

Lancaster III EE195 GZ-B

Capt: Sgt Yeo, HOWARD GARFIELD ... KIA - 409268 RAAF - Friday, 25th June 1943 - Age 22 - Training

Nav: Sgt Aston, MAURICE ROBERT ... KIA - 1394397 - Friday, 25th June 1943 - Age 21 - Training

W/T: Sgt Sneesby, REGINALD ... KIA - 1381732 - Friday, 25th June 1943 - Age 21 - Training

Reginald was originally part of my Grandfather's crew

B/A: F/S Hiddleston, GEORGE ADAM ... KIA - 656250 - Friday, 25th June 1943 - Age 27 - Training

F/E: Sgt Robinson, CHARLES WILLIAM ... KIA - 578359 - Friday, 25th June 1943 - Age 19 - Training

M/U: Sgt Rennick, JOHN STANLEY ... KIA - R/99592 RCAF - Friday, 25th June 1943 - Age 22 - Training

R/G: Sgt Soluk, PAUL ... KIA - R/130819 RCAF - Friday, 25th June 1943 - Age 24 - Training

Lancaster III ED968 PH-P Bar

Capt: F/L Gardiner, NORMAN DFC - RNZAF - Completed Operational Tour

DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS CITATION:

“This Officer Has Completed Numerous Operations Against The Enemy, In The Course Of Which He Has Invariably Displayed The Utmost Fortitude Courage And Devotion To Duty"

From April To November 1943 He Served With No 12 Squadron RAF (Lancaster) 33 sorties to the following targets - Bochum, Dortmund, Dusseldorf (2), Essen, Oberhausen, Cologne (3), Mulheim, Gelsenkirchen (2), Turin, Hamburg (5), Mannheim (2), Nurnberg, Milan (2), Munchen-Gladbach, Berlin (2), Munich, Hanover (2), Frankfurt & Leipzip.

He served as an instructor on No. 1667 C.U. (Halifax) before returning to New Zealand for duty with No. 40 Squadron RNZAF from May to August 1945. Extract From 'New Zealand at War' by Hancock page 41 “New Zealanders did exceptionally well throughout Bomber Command. Not all their performances are available but as an instance Flying Officer N. Gardiner, DFC (Rakaia) carried out forty three raids without the loss of man or plane.”

Gardiner later flew with the RNZAF during the Malayan crisis. He retired and currently resides in New Zealand.

Thanks to Jeff Ritsick for this information.

Nav: P/O Orr, JIMMY - Completed Operational Tour

W/T: P/O Lambourne, VICTOR .H DFC ... 148108 - Completed Operational Tour

B/A: Sgt Grealy, R.G.R

F/E: Sgt Davey, J ... Completed Operational Tour

M/U: F/L Polgrean, William Henry "Harry" ... KIA - 137230 - Wednesday, 7th March 1945 - Aged 24 - ?

William flew at least 35 operations for 12 Squadron with Gardiner (a New Zealander) as captain and was posted to 30 OTU after this tour of operations. What happened then is unknown as William died serving with 578 Squadron at RAF Burn in Yorkshire probably flying Halifaxes. He is buried in Hamburg Cemetery. Many thanks to his cousin Derek Polgrean for this information.

Details of the evening F/Lt Polgrean died from RAF Bomber Cmd Losses:

Crew:

F/L G.O. Powell (KIA)

P/O J. Thornber (KIA)

P/O G.E.F. Sadler (POW)

P/O D.A. Bradbury (KIA)

F/S J.C.E. Toft (POW)

F/S F. Blunstone (INJ)

F/L W.H. Polgrean (KIA)

F/S S.A. Gilbert (KIA)

Aircraft: Halifax III LL558 LK-R

Op: Hemmingstedt

Details: Take off 1834 from Burn. Shot down through the combined fire from flak and a night-fighter, crashing at about 2215 near Averlak, 5 km N of Brunsbuttel. Five of those died, including Polgrean, rest in Hamburg Cemetery at Ohlsdorf, while F/S Blunstone who died from his wounds at Marne Holste Marine Krankenhaus on 9 March is buried in Kiel War Cemetery.

Many thanks to Jeff Ritsick for this information.

William was from Mousehole in Cornwall.

R/G: Sgt Britnell, J.E

Capt: F/L McLaughlin, BENJAMIN EDWARD DFC ... KIA - 127223 - Wednesday, 5th July 1944 - Died whilst an instructor at 1667 H.C.U. flying a Halifax Mk V

Flt/Lt McLaughlin and his crew transferred to 626 Sqn as part of "C" flight, their last op with 12 Sqn being 7/8 Nov 1943 to Stuttgart. The tour of ops was completed with the following missions:

10/11 Nov 1943 Modane

12/13 " " Berlin

18/19 " " "

22/23 " " "

26/27 " " "

02/03 Dec " "

16/17 " " "

23/24 " " "

Thanks to Tim McLaughlin for this information.

Nav: P/O Watson, B

W/T: P/O Clarke, ROBERT DFC ... ??? - 159473 - Completed Operational Tour? (626 Sqn)

B/A: Sgt Cox, H.F

F/E: Sgt Anderson, R

M/U: F/O Gerrard, GEORGE EDWARD DUDMAN DFC ... J13802 RCAF - Completed Operational Tour?

Award effective 30 November 1943 as per London Gazette dated 7 December 1943 and AFRO 166/44 dated 28 January 1944. Enlisted in Winnipeg, 12 January 1942. Trained at No.3 BGS (graduated 28 August 1942). No citation other than "completed...many successful operations against the enemy in which [he has] displayed high skill, fortitude and devotion to duty."

R/G: Sgt Stinson, G.E.S

Capt: F/L Burkhardt, JACK DFC ... 412382 RAAF - Completed Operational Tour on 2 January 1944 with a trip to Berlin

Nav: F/S Hoey, H.H DFM ... 1313173 - Completed Operational Tour

W/T: F/S Morley, P.J DFM ... 1335985 - Completed Operational Tour

B/A: P/O Washbrook, A DFC ... 157197 - Completed Operational Tour

F/E: Sgt Smith, R

M/U: P/O Walker, JOHN .A - Completed Operational Tour

R/G: P/O Rees, E.T.M DFM ... 1419020 - Completed Operational Tour (625 Sqn)

Capt: F/L Ford, PATRICK RAYMOND ... KIA - 414132 RAAF - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 22 - Dusseldorf

Nav: Sgt Osborn, JAMES ALBERT ... KIA - 657839 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 25 - Dusseldorf

W/T: Sgt Harris, MYER ... KIA - 953174 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 22 - Dusseldorf

B/A: Sgt Twitty, GEOFFREY WILLIAM ... KIA - 1235304 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 20 - Dusseldorf

F/E: Sgt Avery, REGINALD ARTHUR CHARLES ... KIA - 1336681 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 20 - Dusseldorf

Reginald Avery lived in Ramsgate, Kent. His niece Janet was 9 years old when he died and went to the same school as Reginald. The teachers at the school remembered him as a great student and a champion chess player. Janet was very proud to see the chess trophy in the hall cabinet

M/U: Sgt Anderson, FREDERICK ... KIA - 626653 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 22 - Dusseldorf

M/U: Sgt Jolly, A

R/G: Sgt Stone, MARCUS WALTER ... KIA - 1308435 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 21 - Dusseldorf

Lancaster I W4373 PH-F

Please see Photo Album for images of F/L Ford, Sgt Avery & Sgt Anderson

Capt: P/O Forbes, THOMAS BENZIE ... KIA - 148437 - Tuesday, 13th July 1943 - Age 31 - Turin

Nav: Sgt Matthews, LESLIE ALBERT(?) ... POW - 148817 - Stalag Kopernikus

W/T: Sgt Sneesby, REGINALD ... KIA - 1381732 - Friday, 25th June 1943 - Age 21 - Training (See YEO)

W/T Sgt Mitchell, LAWRENCE DOUGLAS ... POW - Stalag Luft Heydekrug

B/A: Sgt Thomas, WILLIAM FRANK ... KIA - 1217408 - Tuesday, 13th July 1943 - Age ? - Turin

F/E: Sgt Hales, ALFRED ... KIA - 937612 - Tuesday, 13th July 1943 - Age 32 - Turin

M/U: Sgt Southon, ERNEST ... POW - 1622030 - Stalag Kopernikus

R/G: Sgt Deasley, GEORGE LEONARD ALBERT ... KIA - 1321244 - Tuesday, 13th July 1943 - Age 21 - Turin

Lancaster III LM328 GZ-F2

Please see Photo Album for images of P/O Forbes, Sgt Matthews, Sgt Sneesby, Sgt Thomas & Sgt Deasley

Capt: P/O Kroemer, CYRIL .R DFC ... 416380 - Completed Operational Tour (625 Sqn)

Nav: F/S Bishop, TOMMY .P DFM ... 1550718 - Completed Operational Tour (625 Sqn)

W/T: Sgt Tibbs, DAVE ... Completed Operational Tour

B/A: Sgt O'Brien, JIM ... Completed Operational Tour

F/E: Sgt Clarke, T 'Darkie' ... Completed Operational Tour

M/U: Sgt Cloutman, WILLIAM .M ... Completed Operational Tour

R/G: Sgt Clements, JIM ... Completed Operational Tour

Please see Photo Album for images of P/O Kroemer & Crew

Capt: S/LDR Heyworth, A.JIM DFC & Bar ... 63841 - Completed 2 Operational Tours both with 12 Squadron

Completed his first operational tour by February 1942. Was promoted to 12 Squadron 'B' Flight Squadron Leader during May/June

Nav: F/O Griffiths, DAVID IDWAL DFC ... 125687 - Completed Operational Tour

W/T: P/O Fisher, G.W

B/A: Sgt Ramsey, J.E

F/E: Sgt Pearn, HENRY

Henry was at 12 Sqn from Nov 1942 to Sept 1943

M/U: F/S Wild, P DFM ... 1435609 - Completed Operational Tour (103 Sqn)

R/G: F/O Hill, WILLIAM JOHN FRANCIS DFC & Bar ... 130142 - Posted to 1667 Conversion Unit on completion of second operational tour

F/O Hill may have gone on to serve with 101 Sqn

R/G: P/O Stewart, W.I

Capt: F/O Booth, ARNOLD DFC ... KIA - 124861 - Tuesday, 31st August 1943 - Age 26 - Monchengladbach

2nd Pilot: W/C Towle, JOHN GORDON ... KIA - 37334 - Tuesday, 31st August 1943 - Age 29 - Monchengladbach

Nav: P/O Brown, SEYMOUR VILLIERS ... KIA - 405997 RAAF - Tuesday, 31st August 1943 - Age 21 - Monchengladbach

W/T: Sgt Bish, ARTHUR REGINALD ... KIA - 1199609 - Tuesday, 31st August 1943 - Age ? - Monchengladbach

B/A: P/O Short, JOSEPH HENRY ... KIA - 413674 RAAF - Tuesday, 31st August 1943 - Age 32 - Monchengladbach

Joseph was born in Boggabri, New South Wales and was a schoolmaster before joining up

F/E: Sgt Stacey, MERVYN ... KIA - 623214 - Tuesday, 31st August 1943 - Age 23 - Monchengladbach

M/U: Sgt Wildbore, RALPH ... KIA - 1321712 - Tuesday, 31st August 1943 - Age ? - Monchengladbach

R/G: Sgt Frazer, NORMAN ROSCOE ... KIA - 408585 RAAF - Tuesday, 31st August 1943 - Age 26 - Monchengladbach

Born in Melbourne, Norman was a Mechanical Engineer before volunteering

Lancaster III ED972 PH-R

Capt: F/O Mounsey, WILLIAM NORMAN ... KIA - 124550 - Monday, 24th May 1943 - Age ? - Dortmund

Nav: P/O Whitaker, WILLIAM BUTLER ... KIA - 130596 - Monday, 24th May 1943 - Age 22 - Dortmund

W/T: Sgt Miller, ROBERT SYDNEY GEORGE ... KIA - 1313750 - Monday, 24th May 1943 - Age 21 - Dortmund

B/A: Sgt Dews, A ... POW - Stalag Luft Heydekrug

F/E: Sgt Jowett, W.B ... POW - Stalag Luft Heydekrug

M/U: Sgt Legg, KENNETH GEORGE ... KIA - 539691 - Monday, 24th May 1943 - Age ? - Dortmund

R/G: Sgt Pierpoint, HARRY ... KIA - 1181213 - Monday, 24th May 1943 - Age 27 - Dortmund

Lancaster I W4861 PH-M

Capt: F/O Wright, JIM .F DFC ... Completed Operational Tour 4th October 1943

Nav: F/O Saunders, ERIC .V DFC ... Completed Operational Tour 4th October 1943

W/T: F/S Routledge, THOMAS ANTHONY ... KIA - 1178835 - Wednesday, 26th May 1943 - Age 29 - Dusseldorf

W/T: Sgt Hone, DON .T ... Completed Operational Tour 4th October 1943

W/T: Sgt Morley, P.S ... Replaced F/S Routledge on one operation - Wuppertal - 29.5.43

B/A: Sgt Tattersall, DOUG .R DFM ... Completed Operational Tour 4th October 1943

B/A: P/O Young, P.H.W ... Stood in for Doug Tattersall on two operations - Turin 12.7.43 & Berlin 31.8.43

F/E: Sgt Smith, WALLY ... Completed Operational Tour 4th October 1943

M/U: Sgt Heath, BRIAN .S ... Completed Operational Tour 4th October 1943

R/G: Sgt Shrimpton, GEORGE .W ... Completed Operational Tour 4th October 1943

Completed all operations in PH "X" ED995

Please see Photo Album for images F/O Wright, Sgt Tattersall and F/O Saunders

Capt: F/L Goudge, IVOR PHILIP CHESTER ... KIA - 42562 - Sunday, 30th May 1943 - Age 21 - Wupperthal

According to Douglas Eades (see above) F/L Goudge was a senior officer at RAF Aldergrove, Northern Ireland

Nav: Sgt Gorton, J ... POW - Stalag Kopernikus

W/T: Sgt Wells, VICTOR ... KIA - 1113723 - Sunday, 30th May 1943 - Age ? - Wupperthal

B/A: Sgt Richmond, RONALD STUART ... KIA - 1348445 - Sunday, 30th May 1943 - Age 22 - Wupperthal

F/E: Sgt Graham, ALBERT EDWARD ... KIA - 1444939 - Sunday, 30th May 1943 - Age 33 - Wupperthal

M/U: Sgt Hatch, NORMAN MORGAN ... KIA - 1398671 - Sunday, 30th May 1943 - Age 19 - Wupperthal

R/G: Sgt Hardman, JOSEPH ... KIA - 1508882 - Sunday, 30th May 1943 - Age 31 - Wupperthal

Lancaster III ED996 GZ-J

Capt: F/S Thomson, DANIEL MCNICOL ... KIA - 409256 RAAF - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 26 - Dusseldorf

Daniel was born in Glasgow, Scotland and was an accountant in Bentleigh, NSW before joining up

Nav: Sgt Bowes, KENNETH ... KIA - 1098656 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 23 - Dusseldorf

W/T: Sgt Ward, WILLIAM MIDDLETON ... KIA - 1553630 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 20 - Dusseldorf

B/A: Sgt Campbell, DOUGLAS NOEL ... KIA - 1345600 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 21 - Dusseldorf

F/E: Sgt Osbourne, JAMES LESLIE ... KIA - 1172557 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 20 - Dusseldorf

M/U: Sgt Pringle, WILLIAM THOMAS ... POW RCAF - Stalag Kopernikus

R/G: Sgt Sparling, CLARENCE WESLEY ALBERT ... POW RCAF - Stalag Luft IV Sagan

Lancaster I ED357 PH-S

Capt: Sgt Stancliffe, J.K

Note: Sgt Stancliffe and crew were flying for 101 Squadron during April 1943

Nav: Sgt Morbaix, G.E

W/T: F/S Hale, H.B

B/A: Sgt Nicholls, E.H

F/E: W/O Howells, L DFC ... 1417802 - Completed Operational Tour (75 Sqn)

As Flt Engineer this Officer has executed his tasks with great skill and has set a fine example of devotion to duty. On one occasion whilst over enemy territory the aircraft in which he was a crew member was badly hit by anti aircraft fire. W/O Howells was wounded about the head and although his injury was most painful he persisted in fulfilling his duties and his good work contributed to the safe return of the aircraft

M/U: Sgt Turvill, E.F

R/G: Sgt Morgan, F.H

Capt: S/LDR Fawcett, ROWLAND EDEN ... KIA - 43032 - Sunday, 2nd January 1944 - Age - ? - Berlin (156 Sqn)

Nav: Sgt Lyford, PERCY ROBERT DFC ... KIA - 159425 - Sunday, 2nd January 1944 - Age - 21 - Berlin (156 Sqn)

W/T: P/O Vickers, GEOFFREY DFC ... KIA - 158905 - Sunday, 2nd January 1944 - Age - 22 - Berlin (156 Sqn)

B/A: F/S Bell, JOHN ... KIA - 1133841 - Sunday, 2nd January 1944 - Age - 22 - Berlin (156 Sqn)

F/E: Sgt Headley, GEORGE MATHEW ... KIA - 2206703 - Sunday, 2nd January 1944 - Age - 19 - Berlin (156 Sqn)

M/U: P/O Bowen, ROLAND JOHN ... KIA - 54028 - Sunday, 2nd January 1944 - Age - 23 - Berlin (156 Sqn)

R/G: F/S Hinks, BRINLEY CHARLES ... KIA - 1074123 - Sunday, 2nd January 1944 - Age - 20 - Berlin (156 Sqn)

Lancaster III JA925 GT-La

Capt: F/O Weeks, D.G

Nav: Sgt Mitchell, W.R DFM ... 1341903 - Completed Operational Tour?

W/T: F/O Drew, HARRY DFC ... 148105 - Completed Operational Tour? (626 Sqn)

B/A: F/S Baines, ALFRED HUMPHREY PETER ... 1338177 - Completed Operational Tour? (626 Sqn)

F/E: Sgt Rigley, R

M/U: Sgt Vickers, G.W

R/G: Sgt Swan, J.W

Capt: F/L Wood, V DFC ... 129566 - Completed Operational Tour?

Nav: P/O Kirby, L.N

W/T: Sgt Cruickshank, WILLIAM DFM ... 1374486 - Completed Operational Tour? (626 Sqn)

B/A: Sgt Davis, CHARLES GEORGE - Completed Operational Tour Dec 1943

F/E: F/S Wood, G.H DFM ... 1575276 - Completed Operational Tour? (626 Sqn)

M/U: F/O Wilkinson, JOHN ... KIA - 151058 - Monday, 31st January 1944 - Age ? - Berlin (626 Sqn)

R/G: Sgt Coll, R.B

Capt: Sgt Green, LEONARD EDWARD FRANK ... KIA - 1317497 - Wednesday, 1st September 1943 - Age 23 - Berlin

Nav: Sgt Turner, WILLIAM ... KIA - 1369730 - Wednesday, 1st September 1943 - Age 22 - Berlin

W/T: Sgt Dodds, GEORGE NOON ... KIA - 1030115 - Wednesday, 1st September 1943 - Age 32 - Berlin

B/A: Sgt Humphries, SYDNEY JAMES ... KIA - 1575436 - Wednesday, 1st September 1943 - Age ? - Berlin

F/E: Sgt Moore, VICTOR CLAGUE ... KIA - 524207 - Wednesday, 1st September 1943 - Age ? - Berlin

M/U: Sgt Pyle, TOM ... KIA - 1024949 - Wednesday, 1st September 1943 - Age ? - Berlin

R/G: Sgt Downs, ROBERT ... KIA - 1456871 - Wednesday, 1st September 1943 - Age 20 - Berlin

Lancaster III DV241 PH-F

Capt: F/O Lighton, OWEN GEORGE DFC ... 49591 - Completed Operational Tour

Nav: Sgt Ward, T.M

W/T: Sgt Foreman, MAURICE ERIC DFM ... 1312653 - Completed Operational Tour

B/A: Sgt Lindsay, G.T

F/E: Sgt Wadsworth, FRED DFM ... 1482694 - Completed Operational Tour

M/U: F/S Macey, KENNETH JOSEPH ... KIA - 1320991 - Friday, 25th February 1944 - Age 22 - Schweinfurt (626 Sqn) - Captained by F/O Hutchinson

R/G: Sgt Arthur, F

Capt: Sgt Jeffries , LEONARD FRANK ... KIA - 1386466 - Saturday, 10th July 1943 - Age 22 - Gelsenkirchen

Nav: F/S Roy, CHARLES NAPOLEON ... KIA - R/58798 RCAF - Saturday, 10th July 1943 - Age 22 - Gelsenkirchen

W/T: Sgt Vincent, LESLIE REGINALD ... KIA - 1313855 - Saturday, 10th July 1943 - Age 22 - Gelsenkirchen

W/T: Sgt Steward, W.T

B/A: P/O Oldham, ERIC BERTRAM ... KIA - 135035 - Saturday, 10th July 1943 - Age 21 - Gelsenkirchen

F/E: Sgt Irwin, JOHN ... KIA - 1221258 - Saturday, 10th July 1943 - Age 37 - Gelsenkirchen

M/U: Sgt Addinsall, GEOFFREY WILLIAM ... KIA - 410586 - Saturday, 10th July 1943 - Age 20 - Gelsenkirchen

R/G: Sgt Matthews, T

R/G: Sgt Thorborn, ?

R/G: Sgt Meyer, CLAUDE JEAN PHILIPPE ... KIA - 923584 - Saturday, 10th July 1943 - Age 19 - Gelsenkirchen

Lancaster III DV164 PH-W

Capt: P/O Sargent, DES .A.G DFC ... 157318 - Completed Operational Tour

Des sadly died in 1993

Nav: P/O Oliver, DAVID .R DFC ... 159440 - Completed Operational Tour

W/T: Sgt Hames, DENIS CHARLES DFM ... 1336263 - Completed Operational Tour (626 Sqn)

B/A: Sgt Riley, COLIN .O - RAAF - Completed Operational Tour

F/E: Sgt Wright, KEN .R - Completed Operational Tour

M/U: Sgt Hodge, R.H - see W/O Fordyce's crew

M/U: Sgt Bassant, CLIFF .A - Completed Operational Tour

M/U: Sgt Newman ... injured by flak on 11.6.43

R/G: Sgt McCauley, GORDON .J - Completed Operational Tour

Capt: S/LDR Hopton, CECIL GEORGE DFC ... KIA - J/19003 RCAF - Thursday, 8th June 1944 - Age ? - Versailles (156 Sqn)

Distinguished Flying Cross - No.156 Squadron

Award effective 11 April 1944 as per London Gazette dated 21 April 1944 and AFRO 1075/44 dated 19 May 1944. Born in Montreal, 1918; home in Hampstead and Montreal. Enlisted in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Trained at No.2 ITS (graduated 28 January 1942), No.2 EFTS (graduated 22 May 1942), and No.11 SFTS (graduated 11 September 1942). Commissioned 1943. No citation other than "...completed...many successful operations against the enemy in which [he has] displayed high skill, fortitude and devotion to duty."

S/LDR Hopton had flown at least 46 operational sorties

Nav: F/L Gillis, HARTLEY DAVID DFC ... KIA - 170350 - Thursday, 8th June 1944 - Age 21- Versailles (156 Sqn)

W/T: F/L Moyes, PETER JAMES DFC ... KIA - 160518 - Thursday, 8th June 1944 - Age ? - Versailles (156 Sqn)

B/A: Sgt Leigh, B.B

F/E: Sgt Gross, C.T

M/U: Sgt Dunn, E

R/G: Sgt Minogue, J (This is probably the same person as Sgt Minogue in the Fordyce crew)

R/G: Sgt Lambert, P.A

S/LDR Hopton, F/L Gillis & Moyes perished in Lancaster III ND577 GT-E

Capt: W/O Patterson, W DFC ... 1149155 - Completed Operational Tour? (166 Sqn)

Nav: Sgt Aldritt, J DFM ... 1437011 - Completed Operational Tour? (166 Sqn)

W/T: Sgt Copping, I.J DFM ... 922429 - Completed Operational Tour?

B/A: Sgt Carney, IORWERTH FRANCIS DFM ... 1482426 - Completed Operational Tour (166 Sqn)

F/E: Sgt Dodds, JOSEPH ALAN DFM ... 1496523 - Completed Operational Tour (166 Sqn)

M/U: Sgt McCormack, R

R/G: W/O Seaton, JAMES ARCHIBALD McNAIR DFC ... R149294 RCAF - Completed Operational Tour? (166 Sqn)

Award effective 24 May 1944 as per London Gazette dated 2 June 1944 and AFRO 1444/44 dated 7 July 1944. Born 1912; home in Castlegar or Cranbrook, British Columbia (assistant postmaster); enlisted in Calgary. Trained at No.7 ITS (graduated 11 September 1942) and No.3 BGS (graduated 4 December 1942). Later commissioned (J86288). No citation other than "completed...many successful operations against the enemy in which [he has] displayed high skill, fortitude and devotion to duty". Public Records Office Air 2/9149 has recommendation dated 13 February 1944 when he had flown 28 sorties (199 operational hours), 22 July 1943 to 30 January 1944.

This Canadian Warrant Officer has completed 28 successful sorties over enemy territory of which eight have been on Berlin. During these sorties he has set an example of cheerful courage, unselfishness and sacrifice. He has maintained with his fellow gunners a high standard of cooperation and exceptional fearlessness in the face of danger.

He has kept a vigilant watch during many long flights and, by his patience and endeavour, has enabled the crew to press on to the target, secure in the knowledge that they could devote their full attention to the attack. He is strongly recommended for the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross

Capt: F/O Herron, ARNOLD RAYMOND ... KIA - J/8380 RCAF - Sunday, 4th July 1943 - Age 27 - Cologne

Nav: Sgt Baird, DONALD ROBERT ... KIA - 1600016 - Sunday, 4th July 1943 - Age 30 - Cologne

W/T: Sgt Edmondson, THOMAS ERIC ... KIA - 1026801 - Sunday, 4th July 1943 - Age 21 - Cologne

B/A: Sgt Williams, H ... POW - Stalag Luft I Barth

B/A: Sgt Braybrook,

F/E: Sgt Green, MALCOLM LIONEL ... KIA - 627752 - Sunday, 4th July 1943 - Age 21 - Cologne

M/U: Sgt Baseley, ARTHUR LEONARD ... KIA - 654128 - Sunday, 4th July 1943 - Age 27 - Cologne

R/G: Sgt Combres, MAURICE EMILE ... KIA - R/147647 RCAF - Sunday, 4th July 1943 - Age 21 - Cologne

Maurice joined the RCAF in 1942 and was on his 23rd mission when he was killed. He had flown in Wellingtons, prior to the transition to the Lancaster. Please see Photo Album for a picture of Maurice.

Maurice grew up on a farm in Saskatchewan, Canada and joined the RCAF in 1942. He served for a year and one half and was on his 23rd mission when he died at age 21. The province of Saskatchewan commemorates its war dead by naming landmarks after them and a lake in Northern Saskatchewan was named after Maurice.

Lancaster III ED820 PH-A

Capt: W/O2 Fordyce, GORDON WILLIAM ... KIA - R/116865 RCAF - Tuesday, 23rd November 1943 - Aged ? - Berlin (156 Sqn)

Nav: Sgt S, L.J ... INJ - On return from Berlin Mission (156 Sqn)

W/T: Sgt Egan, A.E ... INJ - On return from Berlin Mission (156 Sqn)

B/A: Sgt Harries, R ... INJ - On return from Berlin Mission (156 Sqn)

F/E: Sgt Johnson, GEORGE ... 1511990 - Tuesday, 23rd November 1943 - Aged 34 - Berlin (156 Sqn)

M/U: Sgt Hodges, RONALD HORACE - ... KIA - 754928 - Tuesday, 23rd November 1943 - Aged ? - Berlin (156 Sqn)

R/G: Sgt Minogue, JAMES STEEL DFC ... R69302 RCAF - Completed Operational Tour? (156 Sqn)

Award effective 19 June 1944 as per London Gazette dated 27 June 1944 and AFRO 1861/44 dated 25 August 1944. Born in Cumberland, Ontario, 18 July 1916; home in Ingersoll (miner); enlisted in North Bay, 9 December 1940. Trained at No.3 BGS (graduated 25 September 1942). Posted overseas March 1942; attached to RAF, October 1942; repatriated 31 March 1945. Released 10 August 1945. No citation other than "completed...many successful operations against the enemy in which [he has] displayed high skill, fortitude and devotion to duty." Public Records Office Air 2/8780 has recommendation dated 20 March 1944 when he had flown 32 sorties (219 hours).

Warrant Officer Minogue has completed 32 operational sorties, fourteen of which have been with the Pathfinder Force against heavily defended targets in Germany and Italy.

This Non-Commissioned Officer is a keen and determined Air Gunner who has always displayed tenacity and great coolness in the face of enemy opposition. He has always shown a marked enthusiasm for operations, and it may be mentioned that he was one of four survivors when his aircraft crashed in this country in November 1943 when returning from Berlin. After he had recovered from his severe injuries he carried on operational flying and elected to continue for the full Pathfinder Force tour. He has always shown a high example in tenacity and devotion to duty and I have no hesitation in recommending him for the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Lancaster III JB293 GT-

Capt: W/O Aspden, LEONARD WILSON ... KIA - 1336697 - Saturday, 28th August 1943 - Age 22 - Nurnberg

Nav: F/S Kelloway, EDWARD ... KIA - R/115923 RCAF - Saturday, 28th August 1943 - Age ? - Nurnberg

W/T: Sgt Dobbins, RONALD WILLIAMS ... KIA - 1178204 - Saturday, 28th August 1943 - Age 23 - Nurnberg

B/A: P/O King, GRAHAM ... KIA - 134722 - Saturday, 28th August 1943 - Age 26 - Nurnberg

F/E: Sgt Bevis, KENNETH JACK ... KIA - 1171184 - Saturday, 28th August 1943 - Age 22 - Nurnberg

M/U: Sgt Clayton, ERIC WILFRED ... KIA - 1006016 - Saturday, 28th August 1943 - Age 36- Nurnberg

R/G: Sgt Chew, NORMAN ALFRED PINXTON ... KIA - 1810131 - Saturday, 28th August 1943 - Age 35 - Nurnberg

R/G: Sgt Butler, D.W.J

Lancaster III DV187 PH-A

Capt: F/LT Rowland, J.N DFC & Bar ... 33577 - Completed Operational Tour

Fl/Lt Rowland has completed very many sorties and has displayed outstanding determination and devotion to duty. On 2 recent occasions when attacking Hannover his aircraft has been damaged in encounters with enemy fighters but each time he has skilfully out-manoeuvred the attackers and afterwards flown his bomber to base. His skill and courage have been worthy of the high praise

Nav: P/O Parry, DERRICK .J DFC ... 157330 - Completed Operational Tour

W/T: Sgt Stainer, EDGAR .F ... Completed Operational Tour

B/A: Sgt Kennedy, BERNIE .J ... Completed Operational Tour

F/E: P/O Edwards, CHARLES ALBERT DFC ... 53584 - Completed (2nd) Operational Tour

M/U: Sgt Robinson, KEN .V ... Completed Operational Tour

R/G: Sgt Short, SAMUEL GEORGE ... KIA - 1333478 - Saturday, 9th October 1943 - Age ? - Hannover - (With another crew captained by W/O F.R. Joy)

Capt: F/L Snell, WALTER FREDERICK DFC ... 129103 - Completed Operational Tour?

Nav: Sgt Russell, D.H

W/T: Sgt Copping, I.J

B/A: P/O Braybrook, DONALD ERNEST DFC ... 136886 - Completed Operational Tour?

F/E: Sgt Heath, L.W

M/U: P/O Bennett, R.J ... 191690 - Completed Operational Tour? (625 Sqn)

R/G: Sgt Matthews, I

Capt: F/L Doel, ALFRED WILLIAM ... KIA - 39907 RNZAF - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 25 - Dusseldorf

741 Hrs 40th Op - F/L Doel had served with 4 different Squadrons

Nav: W/O Durham, ROBERT DURHAM DFM ... KIA - 937812 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 30 - Dusseldorf

W/T: Sgt Templeman, D.L ... POW - Stalag Kopernikus

B/A: F/S Whyman, OWEN KENDRICK ... KIA - 413294 RNZAF - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 27 - Dusseldorf

F/E: Sgt Biggs, WILLIAM FRANK ... KIA - 569401 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 23 - Dusseldorf

M/U: F/O Jones, OWEN KENYON ... KIA - 40921 RNZAF - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 22 - Dusseldorf

R/G: Sgt Pagett, THOMAS ROBERT ... KIA - 1140287 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age ? - Dusseldorf

Lancaster III DV157 PH-Z

Lancaster III DV157/Z took off at at 23.22. Over the target the aircraft was badly damaged by flak and returning over the Netherlands began to lose height rapidly. Near Amsterdam abandonment was ordered as the bomber decended through 1500 ft amidst a hail of light flak. However only The W.Op got out hitting the ground almost immediately after his parachute deployed and then taken prisoner. The Lancaster was presumed to have crashed in the sea west of Ijmuiden at 02.50. Three bodies were recovered including those of the B.A and MU which washed up at Zandfort on the 13th and were buried at Amsterdam

Capt: F/S Shepherd, HORACE ... KIA - 1114117 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 29 - Dusseldorf

Nav: Sgt Cunliffe, WILLIAM EDWARD ... KIA - 1453475 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 28 - Dusseldorf

W/T: Sgt Stephenson, LESLIE ... KIA - 620520 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age ? - Dusseldorf

B/A: Sgt Gill, ALAN ARTHUR ... KIA - 1452106 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 20 - Dusseldorf

F/E: Sgt Pink, FREDERICK NORMAN ... KIA - 1284001 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 26 - Dusseldorf

M/U: F/S Davidson, KEITH BENEDICT ... KIA - R/115668 RCAF - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age ? - Dusseldorf

R/G: F/S Berry, WESTON ROBERT ... KIA - 33396 RAAF - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 29 - Dusseldorf

Born in Dungog, Weston was Motor Driver before joining up

Lancaster I W4791 PH-W

Capt: Sgt Highet, ROBERT ... KIA - 1048176 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 20 - Dusseldorf

Nav: Sgt Gillanders, WILLIAM ANDREW ... KIA - 1511671 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age ? - Dusseldorf

W/T: Sgt Ford, SIDNEY LAZARUS ... KIA - 1330672 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 22 - Dusseldorf

B/A: Sgt Tagg, KENNETH JOHN ... KIA - 1332966 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 22 - Dusseldorf

F/E: Sgt Constable, JOHN EDGAR ... KIA - 636547 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age ? - Dusseldorf

M/U: Sgt Evans, LESLIE ROBERT ... KIA - 1577745 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age 20 - Dusseldorf

R/G: Sgt Lee, ALAN WILLIAM ... KIA - 961573 - Saturday, 12th June 1943 - Age ? - Dusseldorf

Lancaster I ED522 PH-U

Capt: P/O Borland, JAMES DFC ... KIA - 157303 - Monday, 3rd January 1944 - Age 20 - Berlin (156 Sqn)

Nav: P/O Purmal, VINCENT ROBERT ... KIA - J

W/T: Sgt McKenzie, DUNCAN BENJAMIN GRANT ... KIA - 991795 - Monday, 3rd January 1944 - Age 21 - Berlin (156 Sqn)

B/A: F/S Snelling, DENNIS CYRIL GEORGE ... KIA - 1389270 - Monday, 3rd January 1944 - Age 20 - Berlin (156 Sqn)

F/E: Sgt Phillips, D

M/U: Sgt Waller, ALAN ABRAHAM ... KIA - 1392292 - Monday, 3rd January 1944 - Age 22 - Berlin (156 Sqn)

R/G: WO1 Adair, LESLIE JAMES ... KIA - R/133591 RCAF - Monday, 3rd January 1944 - Age ? - Berlin (156 Sqn)

Lancaster III JB553 GT-J

Please see Photo Album for images of P/O Borland & Sgt Waller

Capt: Sgt Aylard, ARTHUR CHARLES ... KIA - 657684 - Thursday, 17th June 1943 - Age 29 - Cologne

Nav: Sgt Alexander, THOMAS ... KIA - 1340990 - Thursday, 17th June 1943 - Age 30 - Cologne

W/T: Sgt Lackey, HENRY JOSEPH PATRICK ... KIA - 1272458 - Thursday, 17th June 1943 - Age 31 - Cologne

B/A: Sgt Williams, MAURICE ROY ... KIA - 1388418 - Thursday, 17th June 1943 - Age 21 - Cologne

F/E: Sgt Scott, JOSEPH ... KIA - 1094144 - Thursday, 17th June 1943 - Age 22 - Cologne

M/U: Sgt Westlake, JOHN WILFRED NOEL ... KIA - 1206109 - Thursday, 17th June 1943 - Age 28 - Cologne

R/G: Sgt Swain, REX ... KIA - 1389005 - Thursday, 17th June 1943 - Age 19 - Cologne

Lancaster III ED629 PH-K

Capt: P/O Currie, JACK .A DFC ... 155488 - Completed Operational Tour(s) (626 Sqn)

Nav: F/O Cassidy, JIM DFC ... 414901 - Completed Operational Tour? (626 Sqn)

W/T: Sgt Fairbairn, CHARLIE DFM ... 1078762 - Completed Operational Tour? (626 Sqn)

B/A: F/S Myring, LARRY .E

F/E: Sgt Walker, GEORGE 'Johnny'

M/U: Sgt Protheroe, GEORGE, V

R/G: P/O Lanham, CHARLIE WESLEY DFC ... 404488 RAAF - Completed Operational Tour? (626 Sqn)

Capt: W/O Smith, E.W

Nav: Sgt Street, LESLIE CHARLES JOHN ... KIA - 1456889 - Thursday, 2nd December 1943 - Age 34 - Berlin (626 Sqn) - Captained by S/Ldr Roden

W/T: Sgt Colles, J.W.L

B/A: F/O Newman, WILLIAM HOWE ... 135625 - Completed Operational Tour? (626 Sqn)

F/E: Sgt Van Hal, HENRI ANTONIUS ... KIA - 1624363 - Thursday, 2nd December 1943 - Age 20 - Berlin (626 Sqn) - Captained by S/Ldr Roden

M/U: Sgt Parker, G

R/G: Sgt Luke, ALBERT GEORGE ... KIA - 1350846 - Thursday, 2nd December 1943 - Age ? - Berlin (626 Sqn) - Captained by S/Ldr Roden

Capt: Sgt Rabett, REGINALD PAUL DFC ... KIA - 1317004 - Saturday, 9th October 1943 - Age 21 - Hannover (166 Sqn)

Nav: Sgt O'Reilly, JAMES ... KIA - 1549441 - Saturday, 9th October 1943 - Age 30 - Hannover (166 Sqn)

W/T: Sgt Davies, RONALD ... KIA - 1032360 - Saturday, 9th October 1943 - Age 23 - Hannover (166 Sqn)

B/A: Sgt Gratwick, RONALD ERNEST ... KIA - 1324750 - Saturday, 9th October 1943 - Age 20 - Hannover (166 Sqn)

F/E: Sgt Roberts, TREVOR ... KIA - 1413356 - Saturday, 9th October 1943 - Age ? - Hannover (166 Sqn)

M/U: Sgt Croxon, E ... Survived landing

R/G: Sgt Davidson, L ... Survived landing

Lancaster III ED993 AS-

Capt: Sgt Lindup, JOHN BROOMFIELD ... KIA - 413436 RNZAF - Friday, 18th June 1943 - Age 24 - Training

Nav: F/S Salmers, EUGENE ... KIA - R/137609 RCAF - Friday, 18th June 1943 - Age 23 - Training

W/T: Sgt Lax, ERIC ... KIA - 1216916 - Friday, 18th June 1943 - Age 22 - Training

B/A: Sgt Collins, R.A ... injured

F/E: Sgt Lewis, JENKIN GILDAS ... KIA - 1283419 - Friday, 18th June 1943 - Age 23 - Training

M/U: Sgt Anderson, C.B ... injured

R/G: Sgt Mills, F ... injured

Lancaster I W4374 PH-D

Lancaster 1 W4374/D took off at about 23.48 and towards the end of the exercise suffered a starboard inner engine failure followed later by the failure of a second engine. On arrival over base difficulties were encountered in making contact with control resulting in the runway being illuminated too late. In the meantime W4374 had crashed and burst into flames while attempting a wheels down force landing in a field ar Great West Wood a mile N of Apley at 04.30. 3 RAF Sgt's survived all injured - 4 of their comrades perished including the Captain and RCAF Navigator who are buried at Holton-cum-Beckering a few miles west of Wickenby. It is believed that 2 others may have been on board but if so they survived. Both engine failures were found to have been due to defective con rod bearings

Additional info above from Errol Martyns Books 'For Your Tomorrow' a record of New Zealanders who died whilst serving with the RNZAF

Capt: S/Ldr Baxter, ROBERT GEORGE LESLIE ... KIA - 39846 - Wednesday, 7th July 1943 - Age 27 - Training

Nav: Sgt Hopkinson, LESLIE ... KIA - 1544310 - Wednesday, 7th July 1943 - Age 22 - Training

W/T: Sgt Hindmarch, JOHN ERNEST ... KIA - 1080447 - Wednesday, 7th July 1943 - Age 22 - Training

B/A: F/O Smith, FRANCIS MELVILLE ... KIA - 136954 - Wednesday, 7th July 1943 - Age 34 - Training

F/E: Sgt Butterly, JOHN DESMOND ... KIA - 1623599 - Wednesday, 7th July 1943 - Age 33 - Training

M/U: Sgt Betts, SYDNEY JAMES ... KIA - 1812409 - Wednesday, 7th July 1943 - Age 34 - Training

R/G: Sgt Bartlett, WILLIAM HENRY ... KIA - 911410 - Wednesday, 7th July 1943 - Age 22 - Training

Lancaster I ED548 PH-X

Google Sites

Report abuse