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BOULTON, Foss Henry Squadron Leader, No.416 Squadron, C1090 Distinguished Flying Cross RCAF Personnel Awards 1939-1949
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BOULTON, S/L Foss Henry (C1090) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.416 Squadron - Award effective 22 May 1943 as per London Gazette dated 4 June 1943 and AFRO 1187/43 dated 25 June 1943. Born 8 January 1919 in Coleman, Alberta; educated there. Timekeeper for Alberta government, 1937-1938; apprentice to an air engineer, Vancouver, 1938-39; steel worker, 1939. Also an AC2 in No.11 Squadron, 19 October 1937 to 2 December 1937. Enlisted in Vancouver as Pilot Officer, 9 September 1939. At Station Trenton, 20 November 1939 to 6 January 1940; Camp Borden, 6 January 140 to 8 May 1940. Attended instructor course, Trenton, 3 June to 19 July 1940; No.1 SFTS, Camp Borden, 22 July to 28 September 1940; No.3 SFTS, Calgary, 28 September 1940 to 16 May 1941; No.12 SFTS, Brandon, 17 May 1941 to 6 April 1942. Arrived in UK by plane, 8 April 1943. Attended No.57 OTU, 28 April to 4 August 1942; No.416 Squadron, 14 August to 30 August 1942; No.402 Squadron, 30 August to 20 December 1942; No.416 Squadron, 8 January to 13 May 1943 (shot down by flak while escorting Forts to Amiens; wounded in left arm, back and head; baled out at 26,000 feet; POW at Stalag Luft III); repatriated to Britain, 28 May 1944; returned to Canada, 23 June 1944. Commanded No.3 Release Centre, 9 December 1944 to 31 March 1946; released 6 May 1946. Died in Seattle, Washington, 12 October 1996 as per Royal Canadian Legion “Last Post” website and Legion Magazine, issue of March/April 1997. Flying Officer, 18 May 1940; Flight Lieutenant, 15 August 1941; Squadron Leader, 8 January 1943; Wing Commander, 1 March 1945. Victories as follows: 19 August 1942, one Ju.88 damaged, Dieppe; 6 September 1942, one FW.190 damaged, Meaulte; 3 February 1943, one FW.190 probably destroyed, St.Omer; 3 April 1943, one FW.190 destroyed, Le Touquet; 5 April 1943, one FW.190 damaged west of Ghent; 17 April 1943, one Bf.109F destroyed north of Dieppe; 20 April 1943, one FW.190 destroyed, Dieppe coast; 3 May 1943, one FW.190 destroyed, Samer; 13 May 1943, one FW.190 destroyed and one FW.190 damaged. Photos: PL-15809 (by nose of Spitfire); PL-15840 (ex UK-3716 dated 20 April 1943) with S/L Lloyd Chadburn visiting No.416 Squadron; beyond Chadburn is G/C H.A. Fenton, DSO, DFC (station commander), S/L D.H. Boulton, and W/C J.E. Johnson. To Chadburn’s left, back to camera, is F/L Phil Archer, DFC, wing gunnery officer; PL-15841 (ex UK-3717 dated 20 April 1943, dinner in the airmen’s mess, S/L Phil Archer, S/L Lloyd Chadburn, G/C H.A. Fenton, DSO, DFC, and S/L F.H. Boulton; PL-29862 (with S/L R.A. Buckham, after repatriation); PL-25100 shows several men repatriated after POW experience - WO J. Somerville (Barberton, Ohio), Warrant Officer D.H. Castling (New Westminster British Columbia), S/L F.H. Boulton (Coleman, Alberta), F/O G.I. Pridham (Toronto) and Warrant Officer G.T.B. Croisiau (Quebec); PL-25101 taken on repatriation to Canada. PL-29893 (Flying Officer J.B. Rainville, Sergeant C.H. Bricknell, Boulton, Buckham, after repatriation; PL-30411 standing alone. Photo PL-35266 shows officers commanding various Release Centres - W/C Hugh Godefroy (No.2 RC, Lachine), S/L R.V. Manning (No.8, Vancouver) and W/C Foss Boulton (Rockcliffe RC). NOTE: Clipping in biographical file has his remarks to Rotary Club in Ottawa in which he praised Red Cross for food parcels to POWs. "He had a taste of the German black bread which he called 'solidified sawdust'." Photo PL-35268 is captioned as follows - “Old school chums from Alberta had a reunion at Ottawa this week, when commanding officers of RCAF release centres and rehabilitation officials gathered in conference. Left is S/L D.R. Walker, Blairmore, Alberta, DFC and Bar, commanding No.7 Release Centre, Calgary, and right S/L Foss Boulton, Coleman, Alberta, DFC, from the Rockcliffe, Ontario release centre. Boulton, leader of an RCAF fighter squadron, was shot down and wounded over enemy territory, became prisoner of war, and later repatriated on medical grounds.” // This officer has taken part in a large number of sorties, including many low level attacks on targets in northern France. He has invariably displayed great skill and courage and has destroyed at least four enemy aircraft.
COPLAND, Alfred Squadron Leader, Eastern Air Command Headquarters, C10909 Member, Order of the British Empire RCAF Personnel Awards 1939-1949
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COPLAND, S/L Alfred (C10909) - Member, Order of the British Empire - Eastern Air Command Headquarters - Award effective 1 January 1946 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 82/46 dated 25 January 1946. Born in Peterhead, Scotland, 21 October 1901. Educated at Peterhead Elementary School (1906-1908), Peterhead Centra School (1909-1913), Peterhead Academy (1913-1916) and Peterhead Academy/Technical (1916-1919). Employed by Thomas Smith and Company, Peterhead, 1916-1919 and James Craighead and Sons, Peterhead, 1919-1923. Home in Seaforth, Ontario. Hired by the Hudson's Bay Co. in 1923 and served as a trainee (Apprentice Clerk) at Chesterfield Inlet (1923-1924) and Southampton Island (Coral Harbour, 1924-1925). Clerk in Charge, Repulse Bay (1925-1926), Eskimo Point(1926-1927) and Southampton Island (1927-1928). On furlough, 1928-1929. Appointed Relief Manager, Oskelanco (1929-1930), Section Manger, Lake Habour/South Baffin Island (1930-1932), Post Manager at Fort Chimo (1932-1933), Section Manager, Fort Chimo and District Officer (1933-1934), Post Manager, Senneterre (1934-1935), Section Manger, District Office, Ungava (April to September 1935), Assistant Manager of the Ungava region (1935-1936), District Manager, Western Arctic (1936-1941), Relief Manager, Cavell (August to October, 1941. In Winnipeg, 1941-1942. Resigned from Hudson Bay Company, 15 February 1942 to join the Royal Canadian Air Force. Enlisted in Winnipeg, 10 April 1942 in Administrative Branch to be Arctic Advisor and posted to No.1 Manning Depot; commissioned on enlistment. To Mountain View, 26 April 1942. To Eastern Air Command, 27 June 1942. To Goose Bay, 19 July 1942. Promoted Flying Officer, 10 October 1942. Promoted Flight Lieutenant, 1 April 1943. Promoted Squadron Leader, 1 August 1944. Retired 27 March 1945. Rejoined in London, Ontario, Miscellaneous Branch, 5 July 1949 with rank of Squadron Leader. To AFHQ, 16 July 1949. Seconded to Defence Research Board, 18 July 1949. Returned to RCAF Headquarters, July 1951. Reclassified as Personnel/Education, 1 April 1954. Retired 4 July 1956. Award presented May 1949. Northwest Territorial Archives has records of interviews with him. The description of these state that after the war, he became a consultant on Arctic conditions and wrote extensively on arctic life. One of his most successful ventures was the "Adventures of Ookpik the Arctic Owl" series which he developed for CBC Radio. This series was produced from 1971 to 1974. Alfred Copland was also involved in the CBC production entitled "North by Sea". Copland wrote the historical portions and the CBC complemented this by interviews with men who travelled in the arctic such as Scott Gall, W.O. Douglas and Captain Len Adey of the Fort Ross. Author of Ookpik, the Oogling Arctic Owl (1963), Livingstone of the Arctic (1967, a biography of L.D. Livingstone, pioneer doctor in the Mackenzie Delta) and Coplalook, Chief Trader, Hudson’s Bay Company, 1923-1939 (1985 autobiography). As a result of his wide experience in Canada's northland, this officer proved of inestimable value to the Royal Canadian Air Force in the establishing of bases and radio units on the Labrador coast and in isolated parts of Newfoundland. Possessed of a keen executive ability, the knowledge of the conditions under which Royal Canadian Air Force personnel manning the bases would be required to live, and the necessary initiative to provide means of meeting the conditions, Squadron Leader Copland's direction of the enterprise resulted in the saving of thousands of dollars to the Royal Canadian Air Force through the economical and efficient co-ordination of the project. During the summer months of three years this officer personally directed the work in the field. During these periods he covered thousands of miles of virgin northland by air and boat, often under hazardous and primitive conditions. This was the result of a recommendation submitted 8 August 1945 by a Group Captain in Eastern Air Command Headquarters (Faucher-Taylor ?) as follows: As a result of his wide experience in Canada's northland, Squadron Leader Copland proved of inestimable value to the RCAF in the establishing of bases and radio units on the Labrador coast and in isolated parts of Newfoundland. Possessed of a keen executive ability, the knowledge of the conditions under which RCAF personnel manning the bases would be required to live, and the necessary initiative to provide means of meeting the conditions, Squadron Leader Copland's direction of the enterprise resulted in the saving of thousands of dollars to the RCAF through the economical and efficient co-ordination of the project. During the spring and summer of 1942, 1943 and 1944, this officer personally directed the work in the field covering these periods, covering thousands of miles of virgin northland by air and boat, often under extremely hazardous and primitive conditions. Notes: On 28 January 1942 he took the initiative to join, writing to S/L O.S. Dunn (Winnipeg) to offer his services and describing his qualifications in detail. To this he attached a report dated “Winnipeg, 10th January 1942" described (without dates) Arctic flying conditions at various places. These appear to have been considering two routes - (A) - Port Harrison, Povemgnetuk, Cape Smith, Wolstenholme, Sugluk West, Lake Harbour, Cape Dorset, Pangnirtung, Igloolik, Repulse Bay and a grouping of Baker Lake-Chesterfield-Tavane-Eskimo Point-Churchill and (B) Port Harrison, Povemgnetuk, Cape Smith, Wolstenholme, Cape Dorset, Lake Harbour, Pangnirtung, Clyde, Pond Inlet, Arctic Bay, Fort Ross, Igloolik, Repulse Bay, Southampton Island and Chesterfield Inlet. This was country where he had travelled by sled. Interviewed 11 February 1942 by S/L O.S. Dunn, Winnipeg. “Is exceptionally well recommended. Have made inquiries as to this applicant and find that he is highly thought of as to Administrative ability, personal habits, integrity, etc. Would judge that he would be of great value to the service.” He was fluent in English and Eskimo. He came with a laudatory reference from the Hudson Bay Company and others. One report stated, “Alfred Copland is regarded as one of the best informed individuals on weather conditions, people, topography and all other conditions pertaining to the Eastern and Western Arctic Regions. He has spent a number of years with the natives, has been over practically all portions of both Eastern and Western Arctic by dog sleigh and boar, is familiar with currents, tides, local conditions and so on. Recently he edited a very fine story on Eskimo life in the Arctic. This was published in the last issue of ‘Beaver’ magazine.” Attended RCAF School of Administration, 1 June to 27 June 1942. Courses in Air Force Law (103/125), Office Organization (102/125), RCAF Organization (90/100), Miscellaneous (69/100), and Equipment (43/50). Personal Assessed at 262/400. “A sincere officer who worked hard but is handicapped by nervousness and lack of self-confidence. Will improve with service experience.” He was intending to go into poultry farming on retirement in 1945. Selected Assessments: “This officer has been placed in charge northern detachments in Newfoundland and Labrador, a position for which he is well qualified; he has had many years experience in far northen outposts and northern waters and has gained valuable knowledge of conditions with an understanding of the natives. Since entering the service he has acquitted himself well, and his retention in the service is recommended.” (S/L G.F. Robinson, EAC Headquarters, 27 October 1942). “This officer in the short time he has been in this position has shown that he can be relied upon to carry out his duties diligently and has always given loyal support to all with whom he has come into contact. Since coming to this Directorate, Squadron Leader Copland has planned and organized the Wet Cold Trials (Exercise Barbara) of which he is now the RCAF Test Team Commander. Having spent a great deal of his time in the Arctic, he is highly qualified for the duty entrusted to him. Although a very staunch family man, he places the service foremost is all his undertakings.” (W/C J. Comar, 12 September 1951) “An extremely capable and clear thinking officer with a high degree of responsibility. His interest in and knowledge of the Canadian Arctic gained through many years of loving and working in that area has established him as undoubtedly the most qualified, best advisor with the RCAF on problems concerning the Arctic. Although he has contributed much to the development of cold weather protective clothing and equipment it is felt more frequent use should be made of his knowledge in the selection and logistic support of Arctic defence sites or defence sites in the more sparsely settled areas of Canada. Is well worthy of promotion to Wing Commander.” (W/C W.A.G. McLeish, AMTS/CDEV/DDB/DBS, 9 October 1953). “A capable and conscientious officer with an excellent background in organization and administration generally. He has specialized knowledge of the Central and Eastern Arctic areas of Northern Canada gained through many years employment by the Hudson’s Bay Company prior to the last war. He is undoubtedly the RCAF’s leading expert on these areas and recently has been called upon frequently for advice by various agencies in connection with the DEW line project. Is admirably fulfilling his duties in his present position and is well able to accept responsibility.” (W/C W.A.G. McLeish, AMTS/CAE/DAEENG, 29 March 1955). “A most capable and conscientious staff officer with a very practical approach to the development problem. He has been outstanding in an unofficial liaison capacity in ensuring projects were carried on from the purely development stage, to the final stage when items came into full operational use. Is fully able to accept responsibility.” (W/C W.A.G. McLeish, AMTS/CAE/DAEENG, 8 September 1955).
JENSEN, John Christian Flying Officer, Station Prince Rupert (now 3 PRC Overseas), C10902 Mention in Despatches RCAF Personnel Awards 1939-1949
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JENSEN, F/O John Christian (C10902) - Mention in Despatches - Station Prince Rupert (now 3 PRC Overseas) - Award effective 8 June 1944 as per London Gazette and AFRO 1380/44 dated 30 June 1944. Born 15 February 1901 at Elk River, Iowa; educated at Carmangay, Alberta, Provincial Normal Institute of Technology (Calgary), University of Alberta, and Queen's University. Enlisted in Edmonton, 18 December 1940 as Airframe Mechanic and posted to No.1 Manning Depot. To Technical Training School, St. Thomas, 27 December 1940. Promoted AC1, 24 May 1941. To No.6 SFTS, 28 May 1941. Promoted LAC, 1 October 1941. Commissioned 17 April 1942 and posted to No.1 Manning Depot on reclassification as Education Officer. To Prince Rupert, 9 May 1942. Promoted Flying Officer, 17 October 1942. To “Y” Depot, 28 April 1944. Taken on strength of No.3 PRC, Bournemouth, 3 May 1944. Promoted Flight Lieutenant, 9 June 1944. Repatriated 23 November 1945. Retired 7 January 1946 to Czar, Alberta. Died there 1964. // This Education Officer has demonstrated a sincere and zealous application to his duties and has done much in the organization and instruction of airmen on many educational subjects. His conscientious influence and sincere attitude has done much to build up confidence in his pupils.
McCLELLAN, Maxwell William Flight Lieutenant, RCAF Overseas Headquarters, C10908 Member, Order of the British Empire RCAF Personnel Awards 1939-1949
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McCLELLAN, F/L Maxwell William (C10908) - Member, Order of the British Empire - RCAF Overseas Headquarters - Award effective 1 January 1945 as per London Gazette of that date, Canada Gazette dated 6 January 1945 and AFRO 89/45 dated 19 January 1945. Born 6 May 1918 in Edinburgh, Scotland (RCAF Press Release 4907 announcing award). Graduated from University of British Columbia where he had also been a laboratory assistant. Home in Ottawa but enlisted in Vancouver, 10 June 1938 in Photography Branch. Attained rank of LAC, 1 July 1939. With No.11 (BR) Squadron as of 28 October 1939. Promoted Corporal, 1 March 1940. To AFHQ, 9 May 1940. To No.1 AOS, 22 July 1940. Promoted Sergeant, 1 November 1940. Promoted Flight Sergeant (unpaid), 1 May 1941. Promoted Flight Sergeant (paid), 1 July 1941. To AFHQ, 4 September 1941. Posted to No.1 Manning Depot and commissioned, both on 17 April 1942. To AFHQ, 3 May 1942. Promoted Flying Officer, 17 October 1942. To “Y” Depot, 20 December 1942. To RAF overseas, 6 January 1943. To RCAF Overseas Headquarters, 7 January 1943. Promoted Flight Lieutenant, 1 April 1944. Repatriated 13 June 1945. Retained rank of Flight Lieutenant as of 1 October 1946. A public relations officer and movie cameraman. RCAF photo PL-2229 is captioned as follows: “Instruction on F.24 camera - LAC E.T. Berkey (Port Coquitlam, British Columbia), Corporal M.W. McClellan (instructor, Vancouver), LAC D.B. Babineau Saskatoon), LAC W.A. Casey (Ridgetown, Ontario.” RCAF photo PL-32237 (e UK-14833 dated 14 September 1944 shows him making friends with two Belgian girls (Odette and Lilliane Fagell); caption notes that throughout the occupation Germans were never invited to local homes. Governor General's Records (RG.7 Group 26, Volume 57, file 190-I) has citation. This photographic officer was selected to proceed with the D-Day beach parties and, together with another public relations officer, carried out advance news coverage of the Royal Canadian Air Force operations from dawn of D-Day until six days later, when additional public relations staff arrived to assist him. During these days he was constantly under fire from the ground and the air and largely independent in obtaining food, shelter and transportation. The earliest first-hand pictures featuring Royal Canadian Air Force operations over Normandy, including the opening of the first "strip", were obtained through the determination of this officer. He has continued to serve on the Normandy front since the day of his arrival. The courage, disregard of personal danger and determination displayed by this officer under enemy fire are most praiseworthy.