HughAHalliday
29th January 2018, 17:23
A 1940-42 file from Leeming found its way to Canada in 1945 and includes several hard-to find recommendations for Mentions in Dispatches. I post them here but must use more than one entry owing to length.
ALDERSON, Frederick Harry, Sergeant (560522) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941 Fitter I.
This NCO has been in the Servicing Flight of this Squadron since its inception approximately a year ago. He has at all times displayed a very high standard of efficiency in discharging his duties, and by his energy and enthusiasm has frequently been able to render aircraft serviceable in a much shorter time than that estimated. In addition, he has from time to time satisfactorily discharged the duties of the Squadron Engineer Officer during the latter’s absence, while still continuing his work as NCO in charge of the Servicing Flight.
ALDERSON, Richard, Corporal (568285) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941. Fitter II.
Corporal Alderson has served in this Squadron since the outbreak of hostilities. He has always displayed great enthusiasm for his work, is completely reliable, and has shown great ability.
BATES, George Frederick, Sergeant (561438) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Metal Rigger.
By his energy and personal supervision this NCO has greatly helped in maintaining the high state of serviceability in the Flight in which he works.
BESSELL, George Edward, Acting Sergeant (581013) Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Air Observer Throughout his 26 operations over enemy territory this Observer has carried out his duties with a coolness and efficiency which have, in a large measure, contributed to the success of the operations.
BOLE, J., Sergeant (533790) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 21 March 1941. See SPIERS.
BOWD, Robert Dennis, Corporal (667177) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Fitter II
This NCO has shown exceptional keenness whilst employed in charge of maintenance and repair parties. His good work has assisted greatly in the war effort of the squadron.
BRADLEY, Herbert Walter, Sergeant (580782) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Air Observer.
Sergeant Bradley has shown great keenness and skill in carrying out his duties as Observer during the 25 operational flights in which he has taken part, and his efforts have largely contributed to the success of these operations.
BROWETT, Frederick Richard, Leading Aircraftman (540366) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941. Fitter II Engines.
This airman since his arrival in the Squadron has frequently volunteered for all night work after having worked throughout the day. His work is always above reproach.
BROWNE, Eric Stanley, Corporal (567055) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Fitter II
Corporal Browne has set an excellent example by his keenness and hard work, whereby he has contributed largely to the keeping of a high standard of serviceability in his Flight, although handicapped by inexperienced ground crews.
BROWNINGS, Edgar Ernest, Leading Aircraftman (910352) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941. Flight Mechanic Engines.
This airman has shown exceptional keenness and devotion to duty and has maintained a high standard of efficiency in his work. On one occasion he was a member of a re-fuelling party when the Whitley which they were refuelling caught fire on the ground. He was on the wing of the aircraft and his clothes were covered in petrol and set alight. He rolled off the wing and drove the tractor and petrol bowser away from the burning aircraft. Only when it was at a safe distance did he attempt to stop his clothes from burning.
CAMP, Thomas, Corporal (566872) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Fitter II
This NCO has shown great devotion to duty and considerable ability throughout his service in his present post. His work is worthy of recognition.
CASE, Henry Hayden, Corporal (542670) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Clerk General Duties.
Corpora; Case has been NCO in charge of the Squadron Orderly Room for eight months and has maintained it in a high state of efficiency. In addition he has been of the utmost assistance to the Squadron Operations Controller in the preparation of crew lists and the maintenance of Squadron operational records at which he has become expert.
Not only is his knowledge of this subject , and his memory for past events , of the greatest assistance to me as Squadron Commander, but he consistently works until midnight, and on many occasions, when the pressure of work is particularly heavy, he has worked all through the night. In spite of this he retains his cheerful outlook on life.
CHALMERS, George Alexander, Sergeant (552201) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Wireless Operator, Air Crew. .
Sergeant Chalmers has taken part in 25 raids into enemy territory. He has shown himself to be a resourceful operator and one who takes pride and care in the maintenance of his sets.
CHRISTIE, George, Sergeant (971579) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended for a DFM, 20 September 1941 when he had completed 23 sorties (183 hours),
This NCO, who failed to return from his 30th mission, displayed throughout his operational career a standard of efficiency which only the most skilful and keenest operators were able to achieve. On two occasions his aircraft was damaged by flak and once when his aircraft crashed into a hillside on an outward journey he displayed courage of the highest order in beating out the flames and dragging his unconscious comrades clear, although he knew there was the danger that the bomb load might explode at any moment.
His skill, bearing and devotion to duty set a splendid example to all less experienced operators, and I strongly recommend his fine work be recognized with the award of the Distinguished Flying Medal.
COHEN, Mark, A/S/L (77318) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941 as a Flight Lieutenant. Administrative and Special Duties.
Flight Lieutenant Cohen has carried out the duties of Adjutant, No.10 Squadron, since January 1940. He has thus been in the squadron for a little over a year, and during this period he has shown considerable organizing ability, tact and zeal. He has devoted himself whole-heartedly to the interests of the squadron and has carried out his duties with enthusiasm and energy. In addition, he has added greatly to the comfort at the station, giving unsparing effort to maintain a high standard of Messing, a subject in which he has expert knowledge.
DALTON, Maxwell, Sergeant (561017) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Fitter Aero Engine.
Sergeant Dalton has been with this Squadron throughout the war, and has shown himself to be an outstanding NCO Fitter. He has placed his duty before any other consideration, and has been a valuable member of his flight.
DAVISON, William Thomas, Leading Aircraftman (560001) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941. Flight Mechanic (E).
This airman has shown exceptional ability and keenness in carrying out his work and has set an excellent example to the rest of his flight.
FAHY, Joseph Cornelius, Sergeant (617966) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Wireless Operator, Air Crew. .
Sergeant Fahy has taken part in 33 raids into enemy territory. He has been keen and untiring throughout his service as wireless operator, and the experience he has gained is of considerable value.
FENWICK, William Cook, Warrant Officer (370345) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941 as a Flight Sergeant. Wireless Electrical Mechanic
Flight Sergeant Fenwick has been NCO in charge of the Signals Section in this squadron for approximately one year. He possesses considerable technical ability and knowledge, and has tackled his work with great zeal. He has devoted much time to the training of Wireless Operators (Air Crew) with outstanding results.
FLETCHER, John, Sergeant (548378) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Wireless Operator, Air Crew. .
Sergeant Fletcher has proved himself a very keen and efficient wireless operator and has to date completed 28 operational flights over hostile territory.
GILBERT, William Arthur, Corporal (356056) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941. Fitter, Aero Engine.
This NCO has shown exceptional keenness and devotion to duty. On one occasion he was the NCO in charge of a party sent to change both the engines of a Whitley which had force landed.. This work was completed under difficult conditions in five and a half days, whereas the normal time for this work on the Station itself would have been seven days.
GOLD, Hugh, Corporal (972695) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941. Armourer.
This NCO has worked exceedingly hard and has no thought for the hours he works when there is a job to be done. He has been an admirable example to the personnel of his Section.
HOLBEN, Frederick Reginald Stanley, Sergeant (561152) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Metal Rigger.
Sergeant Holben has been in his present post of NCO Rigger throughout the war. He has shown exceptional thoroughness , keenness and ability, and has not spared himself in carrying out his duties.
HOLLOWAY, Lionel, Leading Aircraftman (625674) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941. Flight Mechanic Airframe.
LAC Holloway has served in the Squadron throughout the war and has shown outstanding keenness, ability and reliability in the execution of his duties.
HOOSON, Jeffrey Garnett, Sergeant (549887) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Wireless Operator, Air Crew. .
Sergeant Hooson has carried out his duties as a wireless operator with great keenness and his skill has, on several occasions, been of the greatest t assistance to the safe navigation of the aircraft. Sergeant Hooson has completed 25 operations.
HOWLAND, Douglas Haigh, Leading Aircraftman (528418) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Flight Mechanic (AG)
This airman is an ex-member of an air crew and for a period was engaged upon both his aircrew duties and flight mechanic duties. He has maintained a high standard throughout, and has displayed keenness in his work which is an example to his fellow airmen.
LANGFORD, Bernard Leslie, Sergeant (365479) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941. Fitter Aero Engine
This NCO has been outstanding for the great keenness and efficiency he has displayed in carrying out his duties in “A” Flight. He has always set an excellent example to those working under him.
LYMNA, Herbert Brian Felix , Sergeant (580907) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Air Observer.
This observer has completed 27 operational flights over hostile country, and during this time he has carried out his duties in a most satisfactory manner, and has shown great steadiness under trying conditions.
ALDERSON, Frederick Harry, Sergeant (560522) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941 Fitter I.
This NCO has been in the Servicing Flight of this Squadron since its inception approximately a year ago. He has at all times displayed a very high standard of efficiency in discharging his duties, and by his energy and enthusiasm has frequently been able to render aircraft serviceable in a much shorter time than that estimated. In addition, he has from time to time satisfactorily discharged the duties of the Squadron Engineer Officer during the latter’s absence, while still continuing his work as NCO in charge of the Servicing Flight.
ALDERSON, Richard, Corporal (568285) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941. Fitter II.
Corporal Alderson has served in this Squadron since the outbreak of hostilities. He has always displayed great enthusiasm for his work, is completely reliable, and has shown great ability.
BATES, George Frederick, Sergeant (561438) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Metal Rigger.
By his energy and personal supervision this NCO has greatly helped in maintaining the high state of serviceability in the Flight in which he works.
BESSELL, George Edward, Acting Sergeant (581013) Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Air Observer Throughout his 26 operations over enemy territory this Observer has carried out his duties with a coolness and efficiency which have, in a large measure, contributed to the success of the operations.
BOLE, J., Sergeant (533790) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 21 March 1941. See SPIERS.
BOWD, Robert Dennis, Corporal (667177) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Fitter II
This NCO has shown exceptional keenness whilst employed in charge of maintenance and repair parties. His good work has assisted greatly in the war effort of the squadron.
BRADLEY, Herbert Walter, Sergeant (580782) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Air Observer.
Sergeant Bradley has shown great keenness and skill in carrying out his duties as Observer during the 25 operational flights in which he has taken part, and his efforts have largely contributed to the success of these operations.
BROWETT, Frederick Richard, Leading Aircraftman (540366) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941. Fitter II Engines.
This airman since his arrival in the Squadron has frequently volunteered for all night work after having worked throughout the day. His work is always above reproach.
BROWNE, Eric Stanley, Corporal (567055) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Fitter II
Corporal Browne has set an excellent example by his keenness and hard work, whereby he has contributed largely to the keeping of a high standard of serviceability in his Flight, although handicapped by inexperienced ground crews.
BROWNINGS, Edgar Ernest, Leading Aircraftman (910352) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941. Flight Mechanic Engines.
This airman has shown exceptional keenness and devotion to duty and has maintained a high standard of efficiency in his work. On one occasion he was a member of a re-fuelling party when the Whitley which they were refuelling caught fire on the ground. He was on the wing of the aircraft and his clothes were covered in petrol and set alight. He rolled off the wing and drove the tractor and petrol bowser away from the burning aircraft. Only when it was at a safe distance did he attempt to stop his clothes from burning.
CAMP, Thomas, Corporal (566872) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Fitter II
This NCO has shown great devotion to duty and considerable ability throughout his service in his present post. His work is worthy of recognition.
CASE, Henry Hayden, Corporal (542670) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Clerk General Duties.
Corpora; Case has been NCO in charge of the Squadron Orderly Room for eight months and has maintained it in a high state of efficiency. In addition he has been of the utmost assistance to the Squadron Operations Controller in the preparation of crew lists and the maintenance of Squadron operational records at which he has become expert.
Not only is his knowledge of this subject , and his memory for past events , of the greatest assistance to me as Squadron Commander, but he consistently works until midnight, and on many occasions, when the pressure of work is particularly heavy, he has worked all through the night. In spite of this he retains his cheerful outlook on life.
CHALMERS, George Alexander, Sergeant (552201) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Wireless Operator, Air Crew. .
Sergeant Chalmers has taken part in 25 raids into enemy territory. He has shown himself to be a resourceful operator and one who takes pride and care in the maintenance of his sets.
CHRISTIE, George, Sergeant (971579) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended for a DFM, 20 September 1941 when he had completed 23 sorties (183 hours),
This NCO, who failed to return from his 30th mission, displayed throughout his operational career a standard of efficiency which only the most skilful and keenest operators were able to achieve. On two occasions his aircraft was damaged by flak and once when his aircraft crashed into a hillside on an outward journey he displayed courage of the highest order in beating out the flames and dragging his unconscious comrades clear, although he knew there was the danger that the bomb load might explode at any moment.
His skill, bearing and devotion to duty set a splendid example to all less experienced operators, and I strongly recommend his fine work be recognized with the award of the Distinguished Flying Medal.
COHEN, Mark, A/S/L (77318) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941 as a Flight Lieutenant. Administrative and Special Duties.
Flight Lieutenant Cohen has carried out the duties of Adjutant, No.10 Squadron, since January 1940. He has thus been in the squadron for a little over a year, and during this period he has shown considerable organizing ability, tact and zeal. He has devoted himself whole-heartedly to the interests of the squadron and has carried out his duties with enthusiasm and energy. In addition, he has added greatly to the comfort at the station, giving unsparing effort to maintain a high standard of Messing, a subject in which he has expert knowledge.
DALTON, Maxwell, Sergeant (561017) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Fitter Aero Engine.
Sergeant Dalton has been with this Squadron throughout the war, and has shown himself to be an outstanding NCO Fitter. He has placed his duty before any other consideration, and has been a valuable member of his flight.
DAVISON, William Thomas, Leading Aircraftman (560001) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941. Flight Mechanic (E).
This airman has shown exceptional ability and keenness in carrying out his work and has set an excellent example to the rest of his flight.
FAHY, Joseph Cornelius, Sergeant (617966) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Wireless Operator, Air Crew. .
Sergeant Fahy has taken part in 33 raids into enemy territory. He has been keen and untiring throughout his service as wireless operator, and the experience he has gained is of considerable value.
FENWICK, William Cook, Warrant Officer (370345) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941 as a Flight Sergeant. Wireless Electrical Mechanic
Flight Sergeant Fenwick has been NCO in charge of the Signals Section in this squadron for approximately one year. He possesses considerable technical ability and knowledge, and has tackled his work with great zeal. He has devoted much time to the training of Wireless Operators (Air Crew) with outstanding results.
FLETCHER, John, Sergeant (548378) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Wireless Operator, Air Crew. .
Sergeant Fletcher has proved himself a very keen and efficient wireless operator and has to date completed 28 operational flights over hostile territory.
GILBERT, William Arthur, Corporal (356056) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941. Fitter, Aero Engine.
This NCO has shown exceptional keenness and devotion to duty. On one occasion he was the NCO in charge of a party sent to change both the engines of a Whitley which had force landed.. This work was completed under difficult conditions in five and a half days, whereas the normal time for this work on the Station itself would have been seven days.
GOLD, Hugh, Corporal (972695) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941. Armourer.
This NCO has worked exceedingly hard and has no thought for the hours he works when there is a job to be done. He has been an admirable example to the personnel of his Section.
HOLBEN, Frederick Reginald Stanley, Sergeant (561152) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Metal Rigger.
Sergeant Holben has been in his present post of NCO Rigger throughout the war. He has shown exceptional thoroughness , keenness and ability, and has not spared himself in carrying out his duties.
HOLLOWAY, Lionel, Leading Aircraftman (625674) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941. Flight Mechanic Airframe.
LAC Holloway has served in the Squadron throughout the war and has shown outstanding keenness, ability and reliability in the execution of his duties.
HOOSON, Jeffrey Garnett, Sergeant (549887) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Wireless Operator, Air Crew. .
Sergeant Hooson has carried out his duties as a wireless operator with great keenness and his skill has, on several occasions, been of the greatest t assistance to the safe navigation of the aircraft. Sergeant Hooson has completed 25 operations.
HOWLAND, Douglas Haigh, Leading Aircraftman (528418) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Flight Mechanic (AG)
This airman is an ex-member of an air crew and for a period was engaged upon both his aircrew duties and flight mechanic duties. He has maintained a high standard throughout, and has displayed keenness in his work which is an example to his fellow airmen.
LANGFORD, Bernard Leslie, Sergeant (365479) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 24 September 1941 Recommended 7 February 1941. Fitter Aero Engine
This NCO has been outstanding for the great keenness and efficiency he has displayed in carrying out his duties in “A” Flight. He has always set an excellent example to those working under him.
LYMNA, Herbert Brian Felix , Sergeant (580907) – Mention in Despatches – No.10 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 January 1941. Recommended 10 August 1940. Air Observer.
This observer has completed 27 operational flights over hostile country, and during this time he has carried out his duties in a most satisfactory manner, and has shown great steadiness under trying conditions.