MacDONALD, Private Edward Richard - Medaille Militaire - awarded as per London Gazette dated 30 November 1918. Home in Matheson, Ontario. Served with No.98 Squadron on DH.9s. POW, 9 August 1918. See Communique Extract of 8 May 1918 for C.C. MacDonald. No citation other than 'in recognition of valuable services rendered in connection with the war'. MacDONALD, Sergeant-Mechanic Edward Richard - Croix de Guerre avec Palme (France) - awarded as per London Gazette dated 15 July 1919.

MacDONALD, Second Lieutenant John Alexander - Croix de Guerre (Belgium) - date uncertain and may be a case of mistaken identity. DHist card concerning this man gives home as Ripley, Ontario (dental student); to No.2 Officer Cadet Wing, 22 October 1917; to No.2 School of Military Aeronautics, 4 January 1918; to No.10 TS, 13 April 1918; to No.2 Flying School [or Fighting School ?], 28 September 1918; served with No.3 Squadron, 24 September 1918 to 1 November 1918 (missing; no explanation as to overlap of dates); with No.25 Squadron, 24 Febrary to 11 March 1919; died in Shorncliffe Military Hospital, 13 March 1919. Possibly confused with a Lieutenant J. McDonald, DFC, awarded Belgian Croix de Guerre, London Gazette dated 15 July 1919. On the other hand, this officer's name and award appear in a National Archives list of Canadians decorated for services in the RFC/RNAS/RAF (RG.9 III C-14 Vol.4608).

MacDONALD, F/L Aeneas Murdock (J36974) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.429 Squadron - Award effective 30 March 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 721/45 dated 27 April 1945. Born 16 April 1919 in Toronto; home there (telephone craftsman); enlisted there 22 July 1942. Granted Leave Without Pay until 26 October 1942 when posted to No.1 Manning Depot. To No.3 Flying Instructor School, 21 January 1943. To No.5 ITS, 6 February 1943; graduated 17 April 1943 and posted to No.10 EFTS; to No.3 SFTS, 26 June 1943; graduated and commissioned 15 October 1943. To “Y” Depot, 29 October 1943. Taken on strength of No.3 PRC, 15 November 1943. Promoted Flying Officer, 15 April 1944. Repatriated 14 April 1945. Retired 19 June 1945. RCAF photo PL-42302 (ex UK-19277 dated 9 March 1945) shows two Toronto fliers who have recently completed their tour - F/L A.M. MacDonald (pilor, left) and Flight Sergeant K.M. Mason (left, rear gunner). DFC presented 22 November 1948. Employed postwar by Bell Canada. Died in Ancaster, Ontario, 21 September 2004. // This officer has displayed the highest standard of skill and determination. He has completed very many sorties including a number of minelaying missions. In December 1944, Flight Lieutenant MacDonald was detailed for a minelaying operation in distant enemy waters. In spite of adverse weather at the commencement of his flight, this officer showed the greatest determination to complete his mission successfully. // The original submission dated 20 January 1945 is in DHH file 181.009 D.2611 (Library and Archives Canada RG.24 Volume 20627) when he had flown 27 sorties (150 hours 15 minutes); no sortie list: // On December 24th, 1944, Flight Lieutenant MacDonald was detailed for a mining sortie in the Oslo area. Take off conditions for this operation were extremely poor with visibility lowering to about 300 yards. In spite of these difficult circumstances Flight Lieutenant MacDonald made a successful take-off and laid his mines in the allotted area. This officer is captain of a specially selected crew for the carrying out of gardening sorties and has always completed his missions successfully in the face of the utmost difficulties and extremely poor flying conditions. On several occasions, when tactics required gardening aircraft to fly at low level, thereby making them particularly vulnerable to even light flak guns, this captain, with his wonderful spirit and forcefulness of purpose, has set an inspiring example by pressing hom his attack and successfully completing his mission. // It is considered that this officer’s exceptionally fine operational record, his fortitude and devotion to duty fully merit the immediate award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. // Another recommendation (this one with sortie list) is in DHH file 181.009 D.5524 (Library and Archives Canada RG.24 Box 20667), dated 19 January 1945: // This officer has completed 27 sorties into enemy territory, many of which have been against the most heavily defended areas in Germany. In addition, Flight Lieutenant MacDonald has been carrying out special gardening sorties and has always completed his missions successfully in spite of the utmost difficulties and extremely poor flying conditions. An inspiring example has been set at all times by this captain with his cheerful spirit and his forcefulness of purpose. // It is considered that this officer’s exceptionally fine operational record, his fortitude and devotion to duty fully merit the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. // The sortie list was as follows: // 27 August 1944 - Marquis (3.45, second pilot) // 14 September 1944 - Wilhelmshaven (3.20, second pilot, no sortie) // 15 September 1944 - Kiel (5.35, second pilot) // 17 September 1944 - Boulogne (3.40) // 20 September 1944 - Calais (3.20) // 24 September 1944 - Calais (5.00) // 25 September 1944 - Calais (3.50) // 27 September 1944 - Sterkrade (4.45) // 28 September 1944 - Cap Gris Nez (4.40) // 6 October 1944 - Dortmund (5.20) // 11 October 1944 - Wanne Eickel (5.10) // 14 October 1944 - Duisburg (5.30) // 15 October 1944 - Wilhelmshaven (4.30) // 28 October 1944 - Cologne (6.10) // 1 November 1944 - Oberhausen (5.55) // 2 November 1944 - Dusseldorf (5.40) // 6 November 1944 - Gelsenkirchen (5.10) // 16 November 1944 - Julich (5.35) // 21 November 1944 - Castrop Rauxel (6.00) // 27 November 1944 - Neuss (5.25) // 18 December 1944 - Duisburg (5.55) // 24 December 1944 - Gardening, Oslo (6.35) // 28 December 1944 - Gardening, Sandefjord (6.40) // 29 December 1944 - Gardening, Oslo (7.20) // 31 December 1944 - Gardening, Sandefjord (6.55) // 5 January 1945 - Hannover (5.15) // 14 January 1945 - Oslo (6.20) // 16 January 1945 - Magdeburg (6.55)

MacDONALD, F/L Allan Charles (J19189) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.83 Squadron - Award effective 6 January 1945 as per London Gazette dated 16 January 1945 and AFRO 508/45 dated 23 March 1945. Born 26 February 1921 in Vancouver; home in Marble Mountain, Nova Scotia; enlisted in Halifax, 5 March 1941 and posted to No.1 Manning Depot. To No.1 Equipment Depot, 27 April 1941. To No.4 WS, 5 July 1941. Promoted LAC, 7 August 1941. To No.3 BGS, 23 November 1942; graduated and promoted Sergeant, 22 December 1941. To No.31 OTU, 11 January 1942. To RAF overseas, 14 April 1942. Commissioned 8 November 1943. Promoted Flying Officer, 8 May 1944. Promoted Flight Lieutenant, 6 June 1944. DFC presented at Buckingham Palace, 13 July 1945. Repatriated to Canada, 10 July 1946. Released 5 September 1946. Died in Port Hawksbury, Nova Scotia, 7 July 1999 as per Legion Magazine of March 2000. This officer has shown himself to be a skilful and resourceful wireless operator. He has participated in a large number of operational sorties including attacks against the most heavily defended targets. On one occasion in September 1944, his aircraft was detailed for an attack against Kaiserlautern. On the way to the target a heavy electrical storm was encountered and the aerials were damaged. Flight Lieutenant MacDonald succeeded in locating the damage and effected repairs to his equipment and the aircraft was flown to the target. Throughout all his operations this officer has set a fine example of consistent courage, skill and untiring devotion to duty. Public Records Office Air 2/9039 has a detailed recommendation dated 17 October 1944 when he had flown 50 sorties. The details of his first 33 could not be given (logbook lost after tour in Middle East) but he had 17 trips (99 hours four minutes) with No.83 Squadron: 20 April 1944 - Bordeaux 29 April 1944 - Bordeaux 1 May 1944 - Tours 3 May 1944 - Maily 9 May 1944 - Paris 11 May 1944 - Bouge 3 June 1944 - La Panelle 6 June 1944 - Caen 8 June 1944 - Saumur 11 August 1944 - Givors 15 August 1944 - Gilse-Rijen 9 Sept 1944 - Rheydt 11 Sept 1944 - Darmstadt 12 Sept 1944 - Stuttgart 19 Sept 1944 - Munchen Gladbach 23 Sept 1944 - Munster 27 Sept 1944 - Kaiserlauten Flight Lieutenant Macdonald has completed 50 operational sorties on heavy bombers, including seventeen with the Pathfinder Force. He has shown outstanding keenness to operate, and has taken part in many attacks on the most heavily defended targets. He has always shown a high degree of skill and resource in his work, being undeterred by any difficulties. On the night of 27th September 1944, his crew were taking part in an attack on Kaiserlauten. On the way to the target a heavy electrical storm was encountered. The aircraft was struck, and the aerials were damaged. Flight Lieutenant MacDonald succeeded in locating the damage and repairing his equipment and the aircraft was able to carry on to the target. Flight Lieutenant Macdonald\'s spirit and skill have been a great example to the rest of his Section and the squadron. He has been as valuable in his work on the ground as in the air. For his consistent courage and skill through his long operational career, Flight Lieutenant Macdonald is recommended for the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.

MacDONALD, F/O Donald (J88870) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.406 Squadron - Award effective 9 October 1945 as per London Gazette dated 19 October 1945 and AFRO 1822/45 dated 7 December 1945. Born 10 October 1920. Home in Winnipeg; enlisted there 26 August 1941 and posted to No.2 Manning Depot. To No.5 Personnel Holding Unit, 10 October 1941. To No.12 SFTS (guard duty), 23 November 1941. To No.2 ITS, 4 January 1942; graduated and promoted LAC, 28 March 1942; to No.5 EFTS that same date; to No.10 SFTS, 6 June 1942; graduated and promoted Sergeant, 25 September 1942; to “Y” Depot, 9 October 1942. To RAF overseas, 27 October 1942. Promoted Flight Sergeant, 25 March 1943. Promoted WO2, 25 September 1943. Commissioned 24 April 1944. Promoted Flying Officer, 24 October 1944. Repatriated to Canada, 26 September 1945; released 6 November 1945. Score with No.409 Squadron was one Ju.188 damaged (16/17 June 1944), one Ju.188 destroyed (3/4 August 1944), one Ju.188 destroyed 17/18 August 1944), all with WO Colborne as navigator. With No.406 he destroyed one Ju.188 (1/2 February 1945). Medal sent by registered mail, 11 July 1950. Died in Fort Rouge, Manitoba, 2015. // On operational flying this officer has displayed skill, courage and determination. In the course of his operations he has destroyed three enemy aircraft and damaged another. In June 1944, he damaged an enemy aircraft in the air near St.Sauveur. On another occasion in August 1944, while over Normandy, he destroyed another aircraft after a difficult chase. On yet another occasion in February 1945 he destroyed an enemy aircraft in the air near Trier. Flying Officer MacDonald's keenness and devotion to duty have set a fine example to the squadron.

MacDONALD, WO Donald Malcolm (R68535) - Distinguished Flying Medal - No.103 Squadron - Award effective 2 November 1942 as per London Gazette dated 6 November 1942 and AFRO 272/43 dated 19 February 1943. Born in Fort William, Ontario, 11 June 1912. Attended Franklin Street Elementary School and Fort William Collegiate. Grain elevator operator; enlisted in Fort Williams 29 June 1940. To No.1 ITS, 22 July 1940. Promoted LAC, 16 September 1940 and posted to No.2 WS that date. To No.2 BGS, 19 January 1941. Promoted Sergeant, 17 February 1941. Posted overseas, 5 April 1941. Promoted Flight Sergeant, 1 November 1941. Promoted WO2, 1 November 1942. Commissioned 8 April 1943 (J17749). Promoted Flying Officer, 8 October 1943. Repatriated to Canada, 23 September 1944. To No.1 Composite Training School, 15 November 1944. To No.2 Air Command, 15 December 1944. Released 25 November 1945. Rejoined the Reliance Elevator in Thunder Bay, working as a grain inspector and later joined the Government Grain Inspection staff, retiring from that work after 18 years of service. Long association with the Pipes and Drums of Thunder Bay as a piper, Pipe Major and Instructor. Honoured with a Citizen of the Year award by the City of Thunder Bay in recognition of 50 years of community involvement. Composed hundreds of pipe tunes honouring family members and special occasions. He was also an accomplished violinist, playing on many special occasions throughout his life. As a teenager, he had played violin with the Thunder Bay Philharmonic Society, under Gunton Smalley. Died in Thunder Bay, Ontario, 27 September 2002 as per Royal Canadian Legion “Last Post” website and Legion Magazine of March/April 2003. Obituary stated he had flown two tours (55 sorties on Wellington, Halifax and Lancaster aircraft. See RCAF photo PL-15689 (ex UK-3567) dated 1 April 1943, after investiture, FS Francis Dagg and FS Donald M. MacDonald. // Flight Sergeant McDonald, serving as first wireless operator, has participated in a number of operational sorties. On one occasion, when attacking Essen by night, his aircraft was severely damaged by anti-aircraft fire and the wireless was rendered unserviceable. Showing great presence of mind and resourcefulness he effected a repair with chewing gum. By his determination and courage Flight Sergeant McDonald has materially assisted in the successful completion of his many operational missions. // NOTE: Public Records Office Air 2/9604 has recommendation dated 24 September 1942, when he had flown 35 sorties (188 hours five minutes) which gives sortie list and a more detailed text than that published: // * Duty Not Carried Out (Technical Failure) // 26 November 1941 - Ostend (3.20) // 28 December 1941 - Wilhelmshaven (5.25) // 6 January 1942 - Brest (6.10) // 8 January 1942 - Brest (6.00) // 10 January 1942 - Wilhelmshaven (5.20) // 21 January 1942 - Bremen (5.00, bombed target of last resort) // 6 February 1942 - Brest (6.40) // 11 February 1942 - Brest (6.15) // 12 February 1942 - Scharnhorst and Gneisenau (3.05) // 12 March 1942 - Emden (5.15) // 13 March 1942 - Cologne (6.15) // 25 March 1942 - Essen (4.45) // 27 March 1942 - St.Nazaire (5.15) // 2 April 1942 - Poissy (6.00) // 5 April 1942 - Cologne (6.00) // 8 April 1942 - Hamburg (7.05) // 10 April 1942 - Essen (1.15)* // 12 April 1942 - Essen (7.05) // 14 April 1942 - Dortmund (8.20) // 17 April 1942 - Hamburg (1.10)* // 28 April 1942 - Kiel (7.30) // 29 April 1942 - Ghome-Rhone Works (5.35) // 4 May 1942 - Stuttgart (8.30) // 30 May 1942 - Cologne (5.10) // 1 June 1942 - Essen (5.00) // 2 June 1942 - Essen (5.00) // 11 June 1942 - GARDENING (4.35) // 20 June 1942 - Emden (5.00) // 23 June 1942 - GARDENING (4.20) // 25 June 1942 - Bremen (5.50) // 15 August 1942 - Dusseldorf (5.00) // 27 August 1942 - Kassel (5.50) // 28 August 1942 - Nuremburg (4.20)* // 10 Sept 1942 - Dusseldorf (4.35) // 14 Sept 1942 - Bremen (5.35) // Since being posted to this squadron, Flight Sergeant MacDonald, who is a Canadian, has taken part in 35 operational sorties, on each of which he has been first wireless operator. // He has at all times proved himself to be a most determined and cool member of his crew. He reliability and his presence of mind when under fire, together with his quiet cheerfulness and self-confidence in face of danger have set a fine example to his crew and the squadron as a whole. // On 12th February 1942 he took part in the daylight attack on the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau. His captain circled the ships at 500 feet for 30 minutes in spite of very heavy opposition with the result that the aircraft was hit many times. With complete disregard for danger and great coolness, Flight Sergeant MacDonald maintained touch with the Multi-Frequency Direction Finding Station at Sealand getting many fixes to indicate the position of the ships. // On another occasion while attacking Essen on the night of 25th March, his aircraft was damaged by flak, which resulted in loss of petrol and the unserviceability of the wireless and TR.9. With great presence of mind and hard work under most trying and anxious conditions, Flight Sergeant MacDonald repaired the set with chewing gum and obtained three QDMs which greatly assisted his captain in reaching England speedily and forced landing safely at Horsham St.Faith before his petrol ran out. // This Non-Commissioned Officer has a fine offensive spirit under a quiet and unassuming manner. His outstanding ability and strong sense of duty together with his complete disregard of danger have set a fine example to his fellow aircrew and I most strongly recommend that he be awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal. // RCAF Immediate Press Release No.1083 dated November 1942, transcribed by Huguette Oates, reads: // “I guess it was the chewing gum effort,” said Flight Sergeant Donald M. Macdonald in explaining his D.F.M. However, the records also show that this incident, to which the big, dark Fort William wireless operator air-gunner referred to, was only another example of the resourcefulness which he has shown through many operational sorties. Perhaps his seasonal occupation as a gold prospector in Northern Ontario when he was not working in the Lakehead elevators provides the answer to his resourcefulness. // It was in a raid to “Happy Valley” that Flight Sergeant Macdonald repaired a radio with a wad of chewing gum. The set had commenced acting up on the trip to the target and, on the home trip, it failed completely. A nut which held one of the wires in place had been lost. Macdonald used a wad of gum to hold the wire in place, and the set worked like a charm again. // Like many another airmen, Flight Sergeant Macdonald found the channel battle memorable. The night before, he had gone to Brest and had dropped flares to provide light for the bombers that followed. Within 15 hours of the start of that operation, he was in the air again, in “soupy” weather, helping in the search for the German battleships. They found them, too. The clouds sent them down and suddenly at 500 feet, they found themselves over the Scharnhorst. “That shook me”, admitted Mac. And for half an hour they circled the heavily armed battleship at only a distance of 600 yards in the low cloud. “What amazed me,” said Macdonald, “was that for all the flak that was thrown at us, we were not hit once.” They were unable to drop their heavy bombs from that height so they took them home where the pilot made a wizard landing in spite of the bomb-load. // Macdonald has a healthy respect for the Ruhr anti-aircraft gunners. “They’re good shots,” he said. On one occasion, when caught in searchlights, the pilot took them around in so many circles, they became dizzy and eventually wound up on the wrong side of the searchlight belt and had to come through it again to escape. “The flak was so thick,” said Macdonald, “I could hear it, smell it, and practically taste it.” They had not been long out of the searchlights when a Ju.88 was spotted off the port beam. The tail-gunner, Flight Sergeant Louis Lavallee, of Edmonton, blazed away at it, and apparently with good effort because the Junkers was last seen in a dive through the clouds. // Lavallee flew with Macdonald on a number of trips and the Fort William wireless operator was full of praise for the gingery-haired lad from Edmonton. “Lavallee was excitable on the ground,” said “Mac”, but in the air he was as cool as ice.” // On the Poissy raid, the crew got caught in the searchlights. Lavallee was front gunner on this trip and an Australian known intimately as “Digger” occupied the rear turret. The flak was terrific, although the gun concentration was not heavy. // Suddenly things began to happen. The controls jammed and the aircraft began to lose height steadily. The intercom was jammed with a weird combination of Cookney, Canadian, French Canadian, and Welsh and Australian accents, advising the pilot to “pull her out in a hurry”. Then, all at once, an exceptionally big piece of flak tore through the rear turret. They yelled to their Aussie rear-gunner and got no answer. Macdonald heard Lavallee yell, “My God, they got my pal. I don’t give a damn if my grandmother is in Paris.” Immediately Macdonald heard the slatter of Lavallee’s guns and one of the searchlights blinked out. // In the meantime, the dive of the aircraft became more marked and the crew began to get “that feeling”. Lavallee was coolly looking around for a place to land and pointed out a space between two houses, even giving the colors to the pilot. At this point, Macdonald asked, “What about the bombs?” Lavallee’s voice answered, “We can’t let them go here; we’ll kill a lot Frenchmen”. Somebody else suggested, “Dump them in the river?” The navigator chimed in plaintively, “Where the hell is the river?” // However, they found it and unloaded their bombs. At 50 feet over the ground, the pilot, by straining mightily at the controls, managed to level out. When they got home, they counted 150 holes in the tail assembly. And “Digger” was alright. He was spattered with oil and his turret was shot up, but he was unscratched. He had not answered because the big piece of flak, which had singed his eyebrows, had left him momentarily speechless. // Flight Sergeant Macdonald is proud of his Scottish ancestry. He spells his name with the small “d” of the Highland folk. Both he and his brother Ian, who is with an RCAF bomber squadron overseas, are accomplished pipers. Many of the boys who spent the spring of 1941 at Debert will remember the route marches through the red mud behind his skirling bagpipes. When visiting many of his relatives up in Stornaway, in the Hebrides, Donald Macdonald takes his pipes with him and plays the tunes his ancestors loved. At present he is an instructor at an O.T.U.

MacDONALD, F/L Douglas Allister (J14691) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.630 Squadron - Award effective 28 December 1943 as per London Gazette dated 7 January 1944 and AFRO 410/44 dated 25 February 1944. Born 23 September1923 in Ogema, Saskatchewan; home in Rockglen, Saskatchewan; enlisted Regina, 23 September 1941 and posted to No.2 Manning Depot. To No.12 SFTS, 4 January 1942. To No.7 ITS, 4 February 1942; graduated and promoted LAC, 11 April 1942; posted that date to No.16 EFTS; to No.15 SFTS, 20 June 1942; graduated and commissioned 9 October 1942. To ?Y? Depot, 25 October 1942; to RAF overseas, 27 October 1942. Disembarked in United Kingdom, 5 November 1942. To No.19 (Pilots) AFU, 16 November 1942. While there attached to No.1533 Beam Approach Training Flight, 11-16 January 1943. To No.16 OTU, 19 January 1943. Promoted Flying Officer, 9 April 1943. To No.1660 Conversion Unit, 4 May 1943. To No.619 Squadron, 15 June 1943. To No.630 Squadron, 15 November 1943. Promoted Flight Lieutenant, 1 December 1944. Missing, presumed dead, 2 January 1944 (No.630 Squadron, Lancaster JB532). Presented to next-of-kin, 28 February 1946. Flight Lieutenant MacDonald is a highly skilled and most determined pilot, who has taken part in very many attacks on targets important to the enemy\'s war effort. He has displayed a high degree of courage and resolution in pressing home his attacks, qualities which have earned him much success. One night in November 1943, Flight Lieutenant MacDonald piloted an aircraft detailed to attack a target in central Germany. Before reaching the target one engine of his aircraft became useless. Despite this, and in the face of extremely trying weather, Flight Lieutenant MacDonald completed his task successfully. His achievement was most commendable. Notes: At No.7 ITS he placed 51st in a class of 96 and described as ?Good clean cut type. Appears to be very slow in absorbing instruction. A plugger who should show up well.? At No.16 EFTS he placed 28th in a class of 47. Flew Tiger Moths (44.00 day dual, 43.40 day solo, 4.05 night dual, plus ten hours in Link. ?Good average pilot. Instrument flying rough. Ability, industrious, attentive. Conduct excellent.? At No.15 SFTS, flew Cranes (54.00 day dual, 83.15 day solo, 8.25 night dual, 10.15 night solo). This included formation flying (5.30). ?An above average pilot with a good knowledge of flying and plenty of common sense.? Placed 20th in a class of 59. At No.19 (Pilots) AFU, the course was 18 November 1942 to 9 January 1943. Flew Oxford aircraft (5.45 day dual to first day solo, 24.25 total day dual, 25.50 day solo, 2.45 night dual to first night solo, total 4.35 night dual, 10.50 night solo. Of this, 2.25 was formation and 8.15 on instruments. Also logged 10.30 in Link. Flying Tests in General Flying (200/400), Applied Flying (90/200), Instrument Flying (150/250), Night Flying (50/100) and Link (35/50). His character was graded as 10/100 and the Commanding Officer, W/C F.L. Sayers, wrote a scathing assessment: ?His flying is not consistent - sometimes good but often mediocre - because he does not think. Lacks initiative. Recommended for fighters - not because he is particularly suitable, but because he has not the strength of character necessary to captain a crew.? This contrasted sharply with the assessment from No.16 OTU (course lasting 19 January to 17 April 1943). He flew Wellingtons (3.30 day dual to first day solo, 18.20 total day dual, 31.30 day solo, 7.45 night dual to first night solo, 10.45 total night dual, 39.25 night solo, including 3.45 oon instreuments and an added 20 hours in Link. Ground Examinations in Airmanship (189/300), Armament (240/300), Meteorology (55/100), Navigation (144/200) and Signals (69/100). Flying Tests were in General Flying (330/400), Applied Flying (150/200), Instrument Flying (190/250), Night Flying (75/100) and Link (35/50). The character assessment was much more generous - 70/100. S/L F.R. Jeffs wrote, ?A good reliable officer. A good average pilot who is keen to learn. Instrument flying above the average. Pilot, average. Recommended for heavy bombers. Nominated as captain. Recommended for Pathfinder Force.? This last sentence is emphasized in red type, The website ?Lost Bombers? provides the following. Lancaster JB532, No.630 Squadron (LE-X), target Berlin, 1-2 January 1944. Aircraft was delivered to No.61 Squadron on 27 October 1943 but saw no operations with that unit. It joined No.630 Squadron in November 1943 and was lost on its first operation. When lost it had a total of 74 hours. Airborne at 2355 hours, 1 January 1944 from East Kirkby. Homebound, hit by flak which blew one engine from its frame. The Lancaster dived steeply and crashed at Grossbeuthen, 4 km north-nothwest of Trebbin. Crew (all killed) were F/L D.A.MacDonald, DFC, RCAF; S/L K.F.Vare AFC (New Zealander and second pilot); Sergeant R.F.Smale, MID; F/O N.E.Westergaard, DFC; Flight Sergeant W.R.Turnbull; Sergeant W.R.Tyrie, DFM; Flight Sergeant W.Jenkins; Flight Sergeant W.J.Roche, RAAF.

MACDONALD, F/L Gordon Webster (J15099) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.82 Squadron - Award effective 11 February 1944 as per London Gazette dated 18 February 1944 and AFRO 644/44 dated 24 March 1944. Born Wanham, Alberta, July 1921; home there; enlisted in Edmonton, 27 September 1940. To No.2 ITS, 14 October 1940; graduated and promoted LAC, 2 November 1940; to No.8 EFTS, 3 November 1940; to No.4 SFTS, 22 December 1940; graduated and promoted Sergeant on 17 March 1941. Commissioned 11 December17 March 1941. To Embarkation Depot, 27 March 1941. Overseas as of 4 April 1941. Promoted Flying Officer, 1 October 1942. Promoted Flight Lieutenant, 11 December 1943. Repatriated 3 November 1944. Released 14 August 1945. Presented 13 November 1948. Photo PL-34099 shows him with P/O R.H. Birkenes, DFC. This officer has taken part in operations both in the European and Middle East theatres of war. On one occasion, when participating in a low level shipping attack, the port engine of his aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire and the propeller fell off. Nevertheless, with great determination, he pressed home the attack and flew the damaged bomber safely back to base on one engine. During the last six months Flight Lieutenant Macdonald has flown on a large number of bombing attacks against the Japanese in Burma. He has often led the formation in adverse weather and, by his resolution, zeal and courage, has contributed in no small measure to the successes achieved by his squadron.

MacDONALD, F/L Harry Burns (J15644) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.35 Squadron - Award effective 7 May 1943 as per London Gazette dated 13 May 1943 and AFRO 1035/43 dated 4 June 1943. Born in Florence, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, 29 May 1915. Home in Sackville, New Brunswick; store clerk, window trimmer and show card writer; employed by Sydney Colliers for four years as payroll clerk; enlisted in Halifax, 18 October 1940. To No.1 ITS, 13 January 1941; graduated and promoted LAC, 20 February 1941; posted that date to No.11 EFTS; graduated and posted to No.4 Manning Depot, graduated 22 April 1941; to No.8 SFTS, 2 May 1941; graduated and promoted Sergeant, 27 July 1941. To Embarkation Depot, 28 July 1941; to RAF overseas, 14 August 1941. To No.19 OTU, 14 October 1941. To No.51 Squadron, 16 January 1942. To No.35 Squadron, 20 March 1942. Commissioned 19 July 1942. Promoted Flying Officer and Flight Lieutenant, 28 September 1942. To Pathfinder Night Training Unit, 6 August 1943. To Air Fighting Development Unit, 1 September 1943. Promoted Squadron Leader, 1 October 1943. Repatriated to Canada, 4 March 1944; to Western Air Command, 15 April 1945; released 30 October 1945. Flew two tours. Died in Vancouver, 23 July 1956 as per British Columbia Vital Statistics. Flight Lieutenant MacDonald has completed a large number of operational sorties against the enemy's most heavily defended targets. On all occasions he has displayed skill and determination of the highest order. NOTE: Public Record Office Air 2/8950 has recommendation dated 20 March 1943 when he had flown 30 sorties (158 operational hours): 21 January 1942 - Emden 13 March 1942 - Boulogne 8 April 1942 - Hamburg 14 April 1942 - Essen 29 May 1942 - Gennevilliers 30 May 1942 - Cologne 1 June 1942 - Essen 25 June 1942 - Bremen 27 June 1942 - Le Mans 29 June 1942 - Tours 2 July 1942 - Bremen 8 July 1942 - Wilhelmshaven 13 July 1942 - Duisburg 31 July 1942 - Dusseldorf 4 August 1942 - Essen 6 August 1942 - Duisburg 24 August 1942 - Frankfurt 28 August 1942 - Nuremberg 2 Sept 1942 - Karlsruhe 6 Sept 1942 - Duisburg 13 October 1942 - Kiel 9 November 1942 - Hamburg 20 November 1942 - Turin 28 November 1942 - Turin 6 December 1942 - Mannheim 20 December 1942 - Duisburg 30 January 1943 - Hamburg 11 February 1943 - Wilhelmshaven 14 February 1943 - Cologne 19 February 1943 - Wilhelmshaven Flight Lieutenant MacDonald has completed a large number of successful attacks against the heaviest and most hotly defended targets. He has invariably returned with clockwork regularity having successfully bombed his target. On several occasions recently he has operated in a most important role showing the same skill and success. In recognition, Flight Lieutenant MacDonald is recommended for the non-immediate award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. This was duly endorsed by the Officer Commanding, Station Wyton (22 March 1943) and by the Air Officer Commanding, No.8 Group (28 March 1943). The website “Lost Bombers” describes an incident in his career: 13/14 July 1942, Halifax W7761 (TL-N), target Duisburg. This was one of two No.35 Squadron Halifaxes lost on this operation (the other was W1154). It was airborne at 0012 hours, 14 July 1942 from Linton-on-Ouse. Over Duisburg the bomb release mechanism failed and the Halifax returned with its two 4,000lb bomb load intact. All attempts to jettison failed and the aircraft was abandoned at 0500 near Harrogate. Left to its own devices, the Halifax rolled onto its back, caught fire and crashed 0520 at Burn Bridge, Bracckenthwaite near Knaresborough, Yorkshire. In the last few seconds before impact, the bomb load released and exploded approximately one mile from the crash site. No injuries reported. Crew consisted of Sergeant H.B.MacDonald RCAF, P/O Baker, Sergeant Whitter, Sergeant Ely, P/O Freedman and Sergeant Jones. Notes: Keenly interested in flying; in applying to enlist stated he had built about 50 model airplanes, and that he drew and painted them. “It has always been my ambition to make flying my career, above all to become a pilot in the air force. So far this has been denied, but I hope to become a pilot and help do my duty as a Canadian.” Flying incident, 22 June 1942, No.35 Squadron, Linton-on-Ouse. Halifax II, serial W1159, non-operational, day. Repairable at unit. “The accident occurred while making a cross wind landing. I corrected for the drift by yawing into wind and touched down on the right hand edge of runway. Immediately aircraft started to swing to port; I corrected, probably overcorrected and the starboard wheel got off the runway into soft ground, Immediately aircraft swung to starboard and headed for some concrete drain pipes. The brakes were useless as far as swinging the aircraft round and I did not want to use the engines because I was too near the concrete drain pipes, so I cut the petrol and switches. The aircraft’s starboard wheel hit concrete pipe or pot hole and the aircraft ground looped and came to rest.” Assessed as an error in judgement due to inexperience. Incident, 31 July/1 August 1942, Halifax W1019, operation to Dusseldorf. The temperature of port inner engine steadily increased until 120 degrees registered on return flight, He feathered the engine and returned on three engines. Weather was dirty to he diverted to Cottesmore where visibility was good, Landed well; on examination the header tank was found empty of glycol due to leak in the radiator. Incident, 5 October 1942, Halifax DT489, operational flight. Encountered severe electrical thunder storm. A flash of lightning blinded the Engineer, causing him so much pain that the operation was abandoned. Only superficial damage to aeroplane, Crew (all RAF) were 1331106 Sergeant R.E. Wilkes (second pilot, 120393 P/O J. Baker (navigator), 1059518 Sergeant E. Whitter (WOP/AG), 1335515 Sergeant J.R. Ely (AG), 1270179 Sergeant G. Carpenter (tail gunner) and 610981 Sergeant J.E. Jones (flight engineer, injured). Application for Operational Wing dated 24 December 1943 stated he had flown 45 sorties, 18 January 1942 to 25 July 1943 (873 hours 35 minutes to date, operational and non-operational). Training: Interviewed in Halifax, 18 October 1940 - “Good type for aircrew. Strongly recommended for pilot.” Course at No.1 Initial Training School was 18 January to 20 February 1941. Courses in Mathematics (70/100), Armament, practical and oral (86/100), Drill (81/100), Law and Discipline (54/60), Hygiene and Sanitation (47/40) and Signals (93/100). Placed 48th in a class of 112. “Excellent pilot type. Enthused, keen and eager. This airman is very serious and conscientious. Instills a high degree of confidence and was very interested in his work .” Course at No.11 EFTS was 22 February to 22 April 1941. Fleet Finch aircraft - 28 hours 55 minutes dual (excluding instrument dual),40.10 solo, 6.30 instrument flying plus 10.25 in Link Trainer. “When this man wants to, he is really good, but at other times he seem to lose all interest in his flying. At the start he was very cocky but this attitude disappeared gradually. Due to his general deportment, this man is recommended for a commission. He should be a good leader.” (P.M. Boisvert, Chief Flying Instructor). Ground school marks were in Airmanship (137/200), Airframes (82/100), Aero Engines (75/100), Signals, practical (100/100), Theory of Flight (80/100), Air Navigation (171/200), Armament, oral (178/200), Qualities as Officer (195/200). Placed tenth in a class of 25. “Exceptional ability. Very industrious and co-operative. Very likeable personality. Excellent officer material.” Course at No.8 SFTS was 4 May to 27 July 1941. Avro Anson aircraft - 47.20 day dual, 38.35 day solo, 4.25 night dual, 5.35 night solo. Flew 22.20 on instruments and logged 20 hours in Link. “Tends to be nervous and rough on control. Had difficulty with the Anson and his progress has been slow but steady.” Ground courses in Airmanship and Maintenance (131/200), Armament, written (76/100), Armament, practical (75/100), Navigation and Meteorology (116/200), Signals, written (87/100), Signals, practical (48/5/50). Placed 21st in a class of 40. “Very eager and willing but will probably have difficulty with a new type of aircraft.” In No.35 Conversion Flight, 6-18 June 1942, flew 9.30 day dual, 10.05 day solo, 1.45 night dual, 1.50 night solo, assessed “Average”. Assessments: “Flight Lieutenant Macdonald has carried out 43 operational sorties as captain of aircraft and possesses average ability as a pilot and above average ability as Deputy Flight Commander “ (W/C D.F.E. Dean, 31 July 1943. He had then flown 866 hours 42 minutes, 158.37 in previous six months.) To this, G/C R.V. Robinson adds, “An average Captain and Officer.” “An average pilot who has no outstanding qualities or faults.” (W/C D.F.E. Dean, 2 September 1943 when he had flown 908 hours, 121 in previous six months). “Has set a high standard of ability and his organizing power is outstanding. Is a good mixer and a most popular officer.” (S/L R.F. Robinson, 12 March 1944). “Cannot be employed on operational duties outside of Canada, having completed two operational tours outside of Canada.” (memo dated 20 March 1944, G/C T.C. Macfarlane, DPC) “Past experience on two operational tours should qualify this officer for Flight Commander duties in a heavy bomber unit. When this officer reported from overseas in April 1944, he was obviously feeling the strain of flying as a result of two operational tours just completed, during which he was awarded the DFC. In addition, he has qualified for the Pathfinder Badge. F/L Macdonald now shows marked benefit from his change of environment and is rapidly settling down to staff duties. He is a conscientious, keen and loyal type who has a pleasant personality, is popular with his messmates and temperate in habits. I consider this officer is suitable in every respect for promotion to Acting Squadron Leader.” (G/C R. Halley, Western Ait Command Headquarters, 5 July 1944). Recommended for promotion to Acting Squadron Leader and appointment as instructor at a Heavy Bomber OTU - “A keen, capable and loyal officer who is making progress on staff duties. Has distinguished himself on operations overseas and awarded the DFC and Pathfinder badge.” (G/C R. Halley, Western Ait Command Headquarters, 10 October 1944).

MacDONALD, F/L Harvey William (J14099) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.429 Squadron - Award effective 30 March 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 721/45 dated 27 April 1945. Born 8 February 1921 in Hamilton, Ontario; home there; enlisted there 19 September 1941. Granted Leave Without Pay until 21 October 1941 when posted to No.1 Manning Depot. Posted elsewhere, 10 November 1941; to No.6 ITS, 4 January 1942; graduated and promoted LAC, 27 February 1942; to No.20 EFTS, 14 March 1942; graduated 22 May 1942 posted next day to No.16 SFTS; graduated and commissioned 11 September 1942. To No.2 Flying Instructor School, 1 October 1942. To No.9 SFTS, 6 December 1942. Promoted Flying Officer, 1 May 1943. To “Y” Depot, 31 January 1944. Taken on strength of No.3 PRC, Bournemouth, 14 February 1944. Promoted Flight Lieutenant, 11 September 1944. Repatriated 13 June 1945. Released 4 September 1945. DFC presented 22 June 1949. Postwar doctor; died in Willowdale, Ontario, 20 January 2000. RCAF photo PL-42912 (ex UK-19549 dated 30 March 1945) is captioned as follows: “Halfway through his first tour of operations, F/L H.W. MacDonald, Toronto, a pilot with the Bison squadron of the RCAF Bomber Group, has been awarded an immediate DFC. On one of his recent attacks on Wanne Eickel his mid-upper gunner, FS W.H. Magill, also of Toronto, claimed destruction of an unidentified enemy fighter.” Photo PL-42959 (ex-UK-19418) of 19 March 1945 shows F/L H.W. MacDonald (pilot, Toronto) and FS W.H. Magill (Toronto). RCAF photo PL-44622 (ex UK-22046 dated 7 June 1945) shows him; caption says he wore his father’s First World War wings while on operations. // This officer has completed very many sorties involving attacks against various enemy targets. A highly efficient pilot and a resourceful captain, this officer has shown the greatest determination to complete his missions successfully, setting a most praiseworthy example. // DHH file 181.009 D.1502 (Library and Archives Canada RG.24 Volume 20599) has the original recommendation drafted 9 February 1945 by S/L H.V. Peterson; he had flown 15 sorties (104 hours 45 minutes): // On the night of 7/8 February 1945, this officer was detailed to attack Goch. Fourteen minutes after setting course his starboard outer engine failed owing to a mechanical failure and it was necessary to feather the propellor. Showing great determination, Flight Lieutenant MacDonald continued on his mission and by skillful airmanship kept his allotted height and arrived on time. Over the target area he was instructed by the Master Bomber to abandon his mission and return to base. He therefore returned to base and executed a masterly landing with a full bomb load. // This officer has taken part in 15 operations against the enemy and has been captain of a crew specially selected for mining sorties. He has at all times shown himself to be a skillful pilot who is very keen on his work and is possessed of great determination to press on to his target and complete his mission in spite of all difficulties. // It is considered that this officer’s fine operational record and determination, coupled with his fine offensive spirit, fully merits the immediate award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. // Reference DHH file 181.009 D.2619 , Library and Archives RG.24 Volume 20628. On 29 May 1945 W/C E.H. Evans, No.429 Squadron, recommended him for the Air Force Cross. He was described as having flown 398 non-operational hours (instructing) in the previous six months. Not approved but submission transcribed for the historical record: // This officer has completed over 900 hours as a flying instructor in the BCATP. This instructing was carried out over a period of 14 months. // This officer completed many of his instructing hours over a short period due to shortage of Instructors and Staff. These duties, although under fatigue and pressure were performed in the highest possible manner. The calibre of pilots who were under S/L MacDonald have proven to be above average. // While stationed at No.9 SFTS, Centralia, and pilot of an Anson aircraft, the port engine of his aircraft failed while at a height of 100 feet. He carried out a circuit and pumped wheels down by hand and made a successful landing. His judgement and airmanship was responsible for the safe landing of the aircraft and eliminated any possible casualties. // Throughout this officer’s service as an instructor and now as a Flight Commander, he has proven himself skilful and an inspiration to personnel under his command. // In view of this officer’s outstanding record as an Instructor, operational pilot and Flight Commander, I most strongly recommend he be awarded the Air Force Cross. // // RCAF Press Release 10452 dated May 1945 from F/L H.W. Eggleston, transcribed by Huguette Mondor Oates, reads: // WITH THE RCAF BOMBER GROUP IN GREAT BRITAIN: -- Following in the footsteps of his father, who won his wings and commission with the Royal Flying Corps in 1917-1918 in the First World War, S/L H.W. MacDonald, DFC, Toronto, Ontario, (20 Pine Crescent), and formerly of Hamilton, Ontario, has been promoted to his present rank and appointed a flight commander with the Bison squadron of the RCAF Bomber Group. // Arriving overseas in February, 1944, the 24-year-old flight commander logged more than 24 sorties on enemy targets before the cessation of hostilities in Europe. He was awarded an immediate DFC in February, 1945, after an army co-operation sortie to Goch. Seen after leaving home base, the starboard inner engine on the Lancaster bomber he was flying was rendered useless. He continued to the target on three engines and arrived on time only to find that the “master bomber” had called off the attack due to weather conditions. He returned safely to base with a full bomb-load and landed with only three engines functioning. // “During all of our trips, we were never hit by a piece of flak from the enemy defences,” said S.L MacDonald. “On one trip though to Magdeburg, my rear gunner, W.H. Magill, (647 Block Avenue), another Torontonian, shot down an unidentified single engine enemy fighter over Hanover on our way home.” // A student in honor science at McMaster University, where he was prominent in football circles, S/L MacDonald joined the RCAF in Hamilton, Ontario, in September, 1941. He won his wings and commission at Hagersville, Ontario, in September, 1942. He served as an instructor at Centralia, Ontario, after being posted overseas. Promoted to flight lieutenant in September, 1944, he has two younger brothers who served in the present war, Trooper J.A. MacDonald with the Tank Corps in southern England and R.S. MacDonald with the merchant navy.

MacDONALD, F/L John Alexander (J14526) - Commended for Valuable Services in the Air - No.13 SFTS - Award effective 14 June 1945 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 1127/45 dated 6 July 1945. Born 26 January 1914. Home in Montreal; enlisted there 11 September 1941 and posted to No.6A Manning Depot. To No.12 Equipment Depot, 17 October 1941. To No.3 ITS, 5 January 1942; graduated and promoted LAC, 28 February 1942 but not posted to No.11 EFTS until 14 March 1942; to No.13 SFTS, 6 June 1942; graduated and commissioned , 25 September 1942. To No.1 Flying Instructor School, 24 October 1942. To No.13 SFTS, 12 December 1942. Promoted Flying Officer, 1 April 1943. To No.2 SFTS, 14 February 1944. To No.13 SFTS again, 25 February 1944. Promoted Flight Lieutenant, 1 June 1944. To Release Centre, 28 May 1945; released 14 June 1945. Certificate sent 5 July 1945. This officer has been employed as a flying instructor and flight commander at this unit for about two years. He has devoted himself to his duty in a manner above the average; his efforts and example have contributed very largely to the efficient operation of the training wing.

MacDONALD, W/C John Kennedy Francis (C890) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.6 Group (now No.432 Squadron) - Award effective 19 January 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 471/45 dated 16 March 1945. Born 5 January 1917 in Antigonish, Nova Scotia; home there. An engineering student when he enlisted and was commissioned in Halifax, 7 November 1938. Trained at Trenton and Camp Borden, 1938-1939. To No.10 (BR) Squadron, November 1939 (Canteen Officer). On course at Trenton, February to May 1940. With No.8 (BR) Squadron, May 1940 to December 1942 holding down such diverse tasks as Flight Training Officer, Photo Officer, and detachment commander. During this time he rose from Flying Officer to Squadron Leader. To No.149 (TB) Squadron, December 1942. To Halifax, May 1943, reporting in UK, June 1943. Further trained at No.18 (P) AFU (Oxfords, 1 October 1943 to 1 January 1944), No.23 OTU (Wellingtons, 1 January to 28 February 1944), although his MI.9 report says No.22 OTU, Pershore. With No.1659 HCU (Halifaxes, 28 February to 29 April 1944). Reported to No.432 Squadron, April 1944 to become familiarized with bomber operations, commencing operations on 29 April 1944. To No.432 Squadron as Wing Commander and CO, 30 May 1944. Shot down by night fighter, 26/27 July 1944, evaded, regaining Allied lines on 14 August 1944; returned to UK, 20 August 1944. To No.6 Group Headquarters, September 1944. Although entitled to leave in Canada, he declined this for early return to operations. There being nothing in his escape that prevented this, he was returned to No.432 Squadron, October 1944, continuing on operations until February 1945 when he was appointed Base Operations Officer, No.63 Base, and subsequently CO Station Middleton St.George. To Canada, July 1945. DFC presented 2 November 1946. Remained in postwar RCAF; reverting from Group Captain to Wing Commander. At No.2 Air Command, Winnipeg, November 1945 to March 1947. Attended RCAF Staff College. In September 1947 he was posted to North West Air Command Headquarters, Edmonton (Staff Officer Personnel Administration). To Station Sea Island, May 1949. To NWAC as Staff Officer Selection and Manning, July 1949. To Air Transport Command Headquarters, Rockcliffe, July 1950; to Station Lachine as CO, March 1951; to No.426 Squadron as CO, March 1951 to August 1952. Promoted to Group Captain; to No.1 Air Division, August 1952; to AFHQ (Director Air Plans and Programmes), December 1952 to February 1956 when he was took refresher flying training at Station Chatham. To No.3 (F) Wing, Zweibrucken, April 1956 to July 1960. AFHQ (Director of Air Policy), July 1960 to September 1963. Attended National Defence College, Kingston. To AFHQ (Director, Senior Appointments, Air Force), July 1964 to July 1965. Promoted to Air Commodore and assigned supervisory duties over training. To Training Command Headquarters, Winnipeg, January 1966 (Chief of Staff Support Services); to Maritime Command Headquarters, January 1967 (Commander, Maritime Operation Test and Evaluation Unit); Commenced released proceedings, May 1969; honourably released, 5 January 1970. Died in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, 14 January 1986 as per Airforce Magazine of July-August-September 1986. Awarded Queen's Coronation Medal, 6 November 1953. RCAF photo PL-41812 (ex UK-17686 dated 19 December 1944) W/C J.K. MacDonald is on the left, S/L S.H. Minhinnick on right. PL-41813 (ex UK-17687 dated 19 December 1944) shows Minhinnick on left, MacDonald on right. Caption notes that Minhinnick had recently brought a badly damaged aircraft back to base. RCAF photo PL-42511 (ex UK-19620 dated 16 March 1945) is captioned as follows: “Discussing the last RCAF Bomber Group attack on Cologne before the fall of that city are, left to right, W/C Lawrence MacKinnon, DSO, DFC, Ponoka, Alberta, G/C J.K. MacDonald, DFC, Antigonish, Nova Scotia, and Major John Nicholson, London England. MacDonald commands the station from which the Moose and Ghost squadrons fly, while MacKinnon is in charge of operations on the same base. Nicholson, a British army officer though he sports an air gunner badge, and has flown on 13 sorties, is the flak expert of the group. The three have been interviewing fliers at interrogation.” RCAF photo PL-44558 (ex UK-21883 dated 2 June 1945) shows him on hand to see 15 Lancasters off to Canada; he is at left; W/C M.W. Gall (Lachute, Quebec) who commanded the flight on right. No citation other than that in air operations he had "displayed outstanding bravery, fortitude and devotion to duty, setting an example of a high order." DHist file 181.009 D.1513 (RG.24 Vol.20600) has recommendation for immediate award dated 19 November 1944 when he had flown 22 sorties (98 hours 55 minutes). // On the night of 25/26 of July 1944, while flying on a bombing mission to Stuttgart, Wing Commander MacDonald and crew were attacked by an enemy fighter over France. Their aircraft was set on fire and the flying controls were so badly damaged that the aircraft was almost unmanageable. Wing Commander MacDonald, by superb pilotage, and despite intense heat from the fire, managed to keep the aircraft on an even keel before his crew took to their parachutes. // Before this operation, Wing Commander MacDonald has flown many sorties against some of the enemy's most heavily defended targets. He has led his squadron in an exemplary manner and has won, by his inspiring leadership, the confidence and great respect of all personnel associated with him. // After skilfully evading the enemy in France, he returned to this country. Waiving aside home leave, he elected to continue with his tour immediately. He is now once again commanding his old squadron and, as its commander, is an inspiring example and the personification of leadership and spirit. // NOTE: Public Record Officer WO 208/3349 has his MI.9 evasion report derived from interview of 20 August 1944. The crew were listed as P/O H. Chamberlain (engineer, baled out), F/L R. Kemley (navigator, baled out), F/O M. Grimsey (bomb aimer, baled out), F/O W. Calderwood (radio operator, baled out), Flight Sergeant B. Justavson (mid-upper gunner, baled out), and F/O Wright (tail gunner, bale out, killed on landing). // Under various headings he reported that he had departed Eastmoor at 2115 hours, 25 July 1944. He came down at Juvrainville at 0030 hours. He disposed of his parachute, harness and Mae West by hiding them in a cornfield. Secret documents and equipment were burned in the aircraft. // I was the pilot of a Halifax aircraft detailed to bomb Stuttgart on the night of 25/26 July 1944. We were routed over the East side of the Normandy bridgehead. When on track approximately ten miles northwest of Chateaudun we were attacked by a Junkers 88 without tracer bullets. The attack came from behind and level 10 degrees to port. The visibility was good. The enemy aircraft scored hits on both port engines and bomb bay. Both engines stopped and I believe one engine was knocked out of its mounting. The aircraft then became uncontrollable and a fire started in the rest position. // I gave the order to abandon aircraft on the intercom approximately a minute after we were hit. I heard the Rear Gunner say “Rear Gunner going”, then my plug pulled out and I was unable to replace it. The rest of the forward crew took the necessary action. I was the fourth to leave the aircraft through the front hatch, the Flight Engineer having gone back to leave the aircraft from the rear exit. I left the aircraft successfully at approximately 7,500 feet and saw six other parachutes on my down. I followed my burning aircraft to the ground. It appeared to explode shortly before actually striking the ground. I landed on a ploughed field and severely strained my back. Owing to this injury I was unable to move and lay there for about three hours. As it was getting light I managed to crawl towards a cornfield where I dragged my parachute and Mae West, hiding them in the corner. I lay there until about midday and then succeeded in standing up. A farmer was working nearby and I approached him and disclosed myself. He pointed out a wood about one and one-half miles away and told me to hide myself in it. This I did. // At about 1800 hours he turned up with another Frenchman. They brought food and drink and told me to remain where I was until after dark when one of them would return to fetch me. At 2300 hours the second Welshman returned with a cart and took me to his farm which was about three miles west of Villamblain. Here I slept until 0330 hours when the farmer and myself left by bicycle for the village of Villamblain, my back was now easier. I was taken to a merchant’s house who fed me. From this point my journey was arranged for me. // This was supplemented by another report based on an interview of 19 August 1944 and actually written up on 8 October 1944. // The merchant where I was taken on 27 July at Villamblain was about 33 years old, five feet eight inches in height and fair. I do not know his name but his shop was a small general store. He took me to a miller at about 0800 hours who lived just across the street from the church. He was about 45 years old, five feet eight inches in height, ruddy complexion, married with two daughters aged approximately 13 and 17. I do not know his name. He immediately gave me civilian clothes and fed me. About an hour later my mid-upper gunner, Flight Sergant Justavson, arrived. He was quite fit. // At about 1100 hours a lad of about 20 arrived with instructions for Justavson and myself to accompany him on bicycles to Orgeres. We were taken to the home of M. and Mme. De Laubert, where I found Flying Officer Calderwood, my wireless operator, who had arrived the previous day. On our arrival at the De Laubert’s I met Jean Bapiste Lecourier, who I gathered was chief of the local Resistance. About one hour later he took Justavson and myself to the house of Mme. Clare Malaure. These people were butchers and her brother Edouard Pinsard was running the business. // We stayed in this house for about 11 days. Whilst here I was told that arrangements were being made by M. Picourt in Chartres, a chemist who was an ex-French army officer, 44 years old. He told me he belonged to the French Intelligence and since 1940 had been instructed in passing information of value to Allied Intelligence by means of radio. It appears that he is now wanted by the Gestapo. On 9 August he stated he was leaving to take an active part in the organisation of the Maquis in Chartres area. I also gathered from him that the Maquis were very active in sabotaging German troop movements, lines of communication and ammunition dumps in the Chartres area. He was arranging to take us to Paris from where we were to be taken to England by air. The contact in Paris was a Belgian by nationality and was alive on 9 August. // On 2 August another airman was brought in by a gendarme from Orleans. His name was Sergeant Balfour, A., a flight engineer from a Lancaster aircraft shot down on route to Stuttgart on 24/25 July. On the 11th day M. Picourt arrived and told us that the contact through Paris had not materialised. He prepared now to take us near the lines as possible towards Mortagne which he understood was in American hands. // We moved to Chartres on bicycles, Calderwood and myself went ahead with Francois De Laubert (son) as guides, followed by Justavson, Balfour and Picourt starting half an hour later. Reaching a point three miles south of Chartres, we waited for Picourt. When he arrived he took us on to Chartres and Laubert returned to Orgeres. On the outskirts of Chartres we met M. Picourt’s wife and two sons. The elder then took us to a house two miles west of Chartres where we stayed the night. // Next morning we were joined by Justavson and Balfour and then M. Picourt arrived at 1100 hours. That afternoon Calderwood and myself, together with an ex-air force officer whose name I do not know, left for Courville-sur-Eure followed an hour later by Picourt, Justavson and Balfour. We rendezvoused immediately west of Courville and the French air force officer returned to Chartres. Picourt returned to Courville and after being away an hour he picked us up where we had waited by the road, bringing with him a M. Chateau, an ex-French army officer who had the Croix de Guerre. // We then moved in the acknowledged method (i.e. separated in groups) to the village of Bille Blon. Here we were taken to the house of M. Chateau where we stayed until picked up by an American reconnaissance patrol on the evening of 14 August. They moved us to Le Mans and up north to St. James approximately 20 kilometres south of Auranches [Avranches ?]. Nowhere could we find any information as to where we should report. // From St. James, which was a fighter air strip, the operations officer on the advice of his intelligence officer sent us to Rennes (A.22 Air Strip). Calderwood succeeded in getting on to an aircraft at A.22 and so on to the UK presumably. I spent two nights at Rennes making enquiries as to where to report. I imagined the interrogation centre would be in London and I was looking for transport to get me there. Eventually I was taken to T.2 airfield northeast of Bayeux where we were directed to IS.9 (WEA) after having spent four days searching for it. // A further report based on “Loss of Bomber Aircraft” questionnaire lists the crew - W/C J.K.F. MacDonald, F/L H.J.S. Kenley (navigator), F/O W. Calderwood (WOP), P/O O.H. Chamberlain (flight engineer), F/O N.F.C Grimsley or Gumsby, RCAF (bomb aimer), Flight Sergeant B.R. Justason, RCAF (mid-upper gunner, killed ) and F/O S.P Wright (rear gunner, killed). The aircraft was Halifax NP687 (QO-A). This had a brief narrative: // All the informants made satisfactory descents and landed in fields near the village of Villainblanc and Jouvraunville, about 10-12 miles southeast of Chateaudun. Six of the nine 500-pound bombs including two long delay bombs carried did not go off in the crash. The pilot warned the French of the danger of these but they disregarded his advice and when the long delay bombs eventually went off six persons were killed.

MACDONALD, F/L Joseph Alban (J22550) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.61 Squadron - Award effective 2 October 1944 as per London Gazette dated 13 October 1944 and AFRO 2637/44 dated 8 December 1944. Born 17 November 1913 in North Bedeque, Prince Edward Island; home there or Ottawa; enlisted Ottawa, 16 September 1941. Granted Leave Without Pay until 6 October 1941 when posted to No.1 Manning Depot. To No.1 Training Command, 31 October 1941. To No.5 ITS, 23 November 1941; graduated and promoted LAC on 16 January 1942; posted that date to No.6 AOS; graduated 25 Aril 1942 and posted to No.5 BGS; graduated 6 June 1942 and posted to No.1 ANS; graduated and commissioned 20 July 1942. To Ferry Command, 6 June 1942; to RAF overseas, 6 August 1942. Promoted Flying Officer, 20 January 1943. Repatriated 7 February 1945. Released 20 March 1945. Died in Ottawa, 1969. DFC presented 2 December 1946. No citation other than "completed...numerous operations against the enemy in the course of which [he has] invariably displayed the utmost fortitude, courage and devotion to duty". Public Records Office Air 2/9026 has recommendation dated 11 July 1944 when he had flown 27 sorties (26 of them successful) totalling 169 operational hours, 11 June 1943 to 24 June 1944. // 11 June 1943 - Dusseldorf // 12 June 1943 - Bochum // 14 June 1943 - Oberhausen // 21 June 1943 - Krefeld // 28 June 1943 - Cologne // 15 August 1943 - Milan // 23 August 1943 - Berlin // 31 August 1943 - Berlin // 17 Sept 1943 - Anther Viaduct // 23 December 1943 - Berlin // 1 October 1943 - Hagen // 8 October 1943 - Hanover // 20 January 1944 - Berlin // 27 January 1944 - Berlin // 15 February 1944 - Berlin // 20 February 1944 - Stuttgart // 25 February 1944 - Augsburg // 1 March 1944 - Stuttgart // 22 April 1944 - Brunswick // 24 April 1944 - Munich // 29 April 1944 - Bordeaux // 28 May 1944 - St.Germaine // 3 June 1944 - Ferme d'Urville // 6 June 1944 - Argentan // 19 June 1944 - Wattel (recalled) // 21 June 1944 - Gelsenkirchen // 24 June 1944 - Pas de Calais // Flight Lieutenant Macdonald has completed 26 successful sorties, including attacks on Berlin (six times), Dusseldorf, Cologne, Hanover, Stuttgart, Augsburg, Brunswick and Munich. He has been actively engaged in operations for over a year, during the greater part of which time he has filled with outstanding success the appointment of Bombing Leader of the squadron. // He has always shown calm courage in pressing home his attacks and his skill and devotion to duty have been a fine example to his Section. For his unfailing enthusiasm and excellent leadership over a long period of operations, coupled with his skill and courage in the face of the enemy he is recommended for the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.

MacDONALD, F/L Leonard Vincent (J27213) - Commended for Valuable Services in the Air - No.2 ANS - Award effective 11 August 1945 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 1453/45 dated 14 September 1945. Born 13 September 1913. Enlisted in Montreal, 18 September, 1939 as Master Motor Mechanic Transport. To Rockcliffe, 11 January 1940. Promoted AC1, 29 February 1940. Promoted LAC, 29 May 1940. Promoted Corporal, 21 November 1940. To No.9 SFTS, 9 January 1941. Promoted Sergeant, 1 October 1941. To No.2 SFTS, 25 February 1942. Reclassified as Tractor Operator, 1 March 1942. Remustered to aircrew, and posted on 1 August 1942 to No.5 ITS; may have graduated 10 October 1942 but not posted to No.13 EFTS until 7 November 1942; may have graduated 10 January 1943 bit not posted to No.2 SFTS until 23 January 1943; graduated and commissioned, 11 June 1943. To No.1 CNS, 25 June 1943. Promoted Flying Officer, 11 December 1943; to No.2 ANS, 5 May 1944; promoted Flight Lieutenant, 6 March 1945. Posted to Mountain View, 7 July 1945. To No.1 ANS, 28 July 1945. To Toronto, 23 January 1946. To No.1 Release Centre, 7 February 1946. Retired 13 February 1946. Flight Lieutenant MacDonald has been on the strength of this unit for the last twelve months, during which time he has served continuously as Deputy Flight Commander and Flight Commander. His ability as a pilot is above the average and as an officer he has shown sterling qualities of leadership and ability. In his work he has displayed unusual thoroughness, efficiency and reliability, seldom found in one man, and by his conduct and example he has set a very high standard for those under his command.

MacDONALD, Sergeant Murray Dale (R64932) - British Empire Medal - No.2 ANS - Award effective 14 June 1945 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 1127/45 dated 6 July 1945. Born 8 January 1916 in Moncton, New Brunswick (RCAF press release announcing award). Auto salesman before war (Commercial Equipment Limited in Moncton). Enlisted in Moncton, 22 August 1940 as Aero engine mechanic. To Technical Training School, St. Thomas, 27 September 1940. Promoted AC1, 8 February 1941. To No.8 SFTS, 12 February 1941. Promoted LAC, 8 May 1941. Promoted Corporal, 1 June 1942. Promoted Sergeant, 1 April 1943. To No.31 GRS, 17 January 1944. To No.1 Air Command, 8 July 1945. Retired 8 October 1945. Medal sent by registered mail. Governor General\'s Records (RG.7 Group 26, Volume 59, file 190-I, dossier 7) has citation. This non-commissioned officer, an outstanding aero engine mechanic, has, through his ceaseless efforts, maintained this unit\'s aircraft engines in perfect condition. He has contributed many excellent ideas which have been adopted. A tireless worker, he has given much of his normal after-duty time towards the improvement of his section. By his splendid devotion to duty, initiative and efficiency he has made a valuable contribution to the training of aircrew carried out at this school.

MacDONALD, F/O Norman James (J26108) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.57 Squadron - Award effective 6 January 1945 as per London Gazette dated 16 January 1945 and AFRO 508/45 dated 23 March 1945. Born 5 July 1921 in Marble Mountain, Nova Scotia; home there (but large white card at DHist gives home as Vancouver). Enlisted in Vancouver, 4 June 1941 as Clerk-Stenographer and posted to No.1 Manning Depot. To unclear posting, 12 July 1941. To No.13 Operational Training Squadron, 30 August 1941. To No.147 Squadron, 27 June 1942. Remustered to aircrew and posted to No.4 ITS, 31 July 1942; may have graduated 25 September 1942 but not posted to No.5 EFTS until 7 November 1942; graduated 30 December 1942 but not posted to No.3 SFTS until 8 January 1943; graduated and commissioned, 30 April 1943. Dates of overseas posting and repatriation unclear. Promoted Flying Officerm 30 October 1943. Retired 29 April 1945. DFC presented 27 March 1949. Died in Toronto, 21 November 1997. No citation other than \"completed...numerous operations against the enemy in the course of which [he has] invariably displayed the utmost fortitude, courage and devotion to duty.\" Public Records Office Air 2/9039 has recommendation dated 19 October 1944 when he had flown 33 sorties totalling 189 hours 30 minutes. 2 June 1944 - Saumur (6.05) 3 June 1944 - Ferme d\'Urville (3.50) 4 June 1944 - Maisy (4.05) 5 June 1944 - La Pernelle (4.30) 7 June 1944 - Cerisy (4.40) 9 June 1944 - Etampes (4.30) 12 June 1944 - Caen (4.40) 27 June 1944 - Mimoyecques (3.05) 4 July 1944 - St.Leu d\'Esserent (4.05) 7 July 1944 - St.Leu d\'Esserent (4.35) 12 July 1944 - Chaumont (8.30) 14 July 1944 - Villeneuve (7.05) 24 July 1944 - Stuttgart (8.25) 25 July 1944 - Stuttgart (8.50) 28 July 1944 - Stuttgart (8.25) 30 July 1944 - Aunay-sur-Odon (5.10) 31 July 1944 - Joigny (5.25) 2 August 1944 - Trossy St.Maximim (4.15) 3 August 1944 - Trossy St.Maximim (4.20) 5 August 1944 - St.Leu d\'Esserent (4.25) 25 August 1944 - Darmstadt (8.40) 26 August 1944 - Konigsberg (10.45) 29 August 1944 - Konigsberg (11.05) 2 Sept 1944 - Brest (5.25) 9 Sept 1944 - Munchen (4.30) 11 Sept 1944 - Le Havre (3.55) 11 Sept 1944 - Stuttgart (7.00) 17 Sept 1944 - Boulogne (3.20) 18 Sept 1944 - Bremerhaven (4.25) 19 Sept 1944 - Munchen (4.20) 23 Sept 1944 - Handorf (5.15) 29 Sept 1944 - Karlsruhe (7.05) 7 October 1944 - Flushing (2.45) Flying Officer MacDonald has completed 33 sorties against heavily defended targets in Germany, including Stuttgart four times, Konigsberg twice, Munchen Gladbach twice, Darmstadt, Karlsruhe, Bremerhaven, also against targets by day and by night in enemy occupied territory. On all of these attacks he has shown himself to be an outstanding pilot and captain of aircraft. On two occasions the aircraft in which he was flying was coned by searchlights while on its bombing run up to the target. Nevertheless, Flying Officer MacDonald continued his bombing run and photographic evidence shows that on both occasions he successfully bombed the aiming point. Other photographs show that on nearly every occasion he has successfully bombed the target for which he has been detailed. This officer has been an outstanding captain of aircraft. He has always taken a keen interest in his crew and has personally supervised their training and physical fitness. Due to his enthusiasm and interest in his crew, Flying Officer MacDonald has completed a very successful tour of operations without any outstanding incidents. His devotion to duty and determination to press home attacks on every occasion have been an inspiration to other captains in the squadron. He is strongly recommended for the non-immediate award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.

MacDONALD, WO2 (now P/O) Robert William (R64946/J37357) - Mention in Despatches - No.10 Squadron (Canada) - Award effective 1 January 1944 as per Canada Gazette and London Gazette of that date and AFRO 113/44 dated 21 January 1944. Born 10 April 1922 at Jacksonville, New Brunswick (RCAF press release 2659 announcing award). Home in Woodstock, New Brunswick; attended Vocational School for one year but had no employment record; enlisted in Moncton, 24 August 1940. Posted to No.1 Manning Depot on enlistment; to No.1 Equipment Depot, Toronto, 10 December 1940; to No.1 WS, Montreal, 5 January 1941. Promoted LAC, 3 February 1941; graduated 26 May 1941 and posted to No.3 BGS, Macdonald. Graduated and promoted Sergeant on 24 June 1941. To No.119 Squadron, Yarmouth, 11 July 1941. To No.10 (BR) Squadron, 5 September 1943. Commissioned with effect from that date (APR List of 8 November 1943). Killed in flying accident, Liberator 3701 of No.10 (BR) Squadron, 20 October 1943. Warrant Officer MacDonald by his great skill and perseverance has established a reputation as an outstanding Wireless Operator. His operational record is extensive and he has at all times displayed keenness, devotion to duty and willingness to work under any and all conditions. He was recommended for an Air Force Medal on 24 August 1943. The form has ?Medal? struck out and ?Cross? substituted. At the time he had flown 1,100 hours (258 hours in previous six months), of which 781 operational hours (152 sorties). The original submission by S/L J.M. Young read: WO2 MacDonald has served as a Wireless Operator and Air Gunner on the East Coast since early 1941. During this time he has participated in many operational sorties. He has succeeded in surmounting numerous odds by his great skill, keenness and perseverance. His untiring efforts to better himself and his fellow members have earned him the praise, admiration and respect of all who contact him. On 1 September 1943, G/C Clair Annis (Station Commander) wrote: This Non-Commissioned Officer came to the VLR Squadron from a unit which had been equipped with Bolingbrokes, then with Hudson aircraft. In spite of the poor communication equipment of these aircraft he was able to establish for himself a reputation as an outstanding wireless operator. His operational record is extensive and marked by a very high order of keenness, devotion to duty and willingness to work and fly under any or all conditions. On 10 September 1943, Air Vice-Marshal G.O. Johnson (Air Officer Commanding, Eastern Air Command) wrote, ?Recommended for DFC.? However, on 11 October 1943 at AFHQ, G/C D.E. MacKell (Director of Personnel) wrote the decision of the Honours in War Committee: ?It was not considered that the DFC was warranted. Recommended for Mention in Despatches?. Air Marshal L.S. Breadner concurred, 12 October 1943.

MacDONALD, F/L Shirley Graeme Kenney (C3564) - Commemorative Medal (Norway) - effective 3 July 1945 as per Canada Gazette dated 4 May 1946 and AFRO 473/46 dated 10 May 1946. Repeated, Canada Gazette dated 12 June 1948 and AFRO 371/48. Card at DHist says effective 15 February 1944 but statement of service on file says it was 3 August 1943 citing AFHQ Signal P.3193 dated 18 February 1944 and DRO entry 55/44; the same file states that he held a Knighthood of the Order of St. Olav of Norway from 10 September 1935 (proclamation or certificate on file). Born in Montreal, 24 October 1902. Prewar he was a barrister and solicitor and for fourteen years a Trade Commissioner to Norway, Denmark, Finland and 17 locations in Latin America including French Colonies and West Indies. Military service had included Lieutenant, COTC, University of Alberta (27 May 1926), Lieutenant, Calgary Highlanders (11 December 1928) and resigning commission, 12 November 1930 ?due to leaving the country on government service.? Home in Toronto; enlisted there 11 December 1940 and commissioned Flying Officer that date. To No.1 Manning Depot, 2 January 1941. To Station Trenton, 17 January 1941 for Administration course. To No.1 Training Command Headquarters, Toronto, 16 February 1941. To RCAF Headquarters, Ottawa, 18 April 1941. Promoted Flight Lieutenant, 15 September 1941. To No.1 Training Command Headquarters, 15 August 1943. To No.4 BGS, 19 September 1943. To No.16 SFTS, 22 September 1943 as Adjutant. To ?Y? Depot, 2 July 1944. Taken on strength of No.3 PRC, Bournemouth, 11 July 1944 (actually the date he embarked at Halifax). Disembarked in Britain, 18 July 1944. To No.6 Group Headquarters, 4 August 1944. Attached to No.63 Base and No.429 Squadron, 5-17 August 1944. Attached to Wombleton, 17-31 August 1944. To No.61 Base, 31 August 1944. Embarked for Canada again,22 October 1944. Repatriated 28 October 1944. To No.3 Release Centre, 1 January 1945. Retired 9 January 1945. Minutes of the Tenth Meeting, Awards Coordination Committee, held in Ottawa on 23 July 1943 indicate the award of this medal was approved at that time to F/L S.G.K. MacDonald, Canadian Liaison Officer to Norwegian Air Force Training Centre, Toronto, and to his assistant, Corporal T.L. Hardwell (DND Naval Services file 1078-15-5, National Archives of Canada RG.24, Volume 4059. Died in Edmonton, 9 February 1984 as per Legion Magazine of September 1984. MacDONALD, F/L Shirley Graeme Kenny (C3564) - King Haakron VII\'s Medal of Liberation (Norway) - Awarded as per Canada Gazette dated 12 June 1948 and AFRO 384/48 dated 18 June 1948. Administrative Officer. Notes: As of 28 May 1941, in recommending officers for promotion, A/C G.E. Brookes (No.1 Training Command), wrote: Recommended for appointment to Acting Flight Lieutenant and for confirmation of rank in due course. This officer, though technically not on the strength of this Headquarters, is carrying out the duties of Liaison Officer with the Royal Norwegian Air Force to entire satisfaction, and it is felt that his appointment, as above recommended, would be in the best interests of the service and would substantiate his position in view of the nature of his duties. An undated assessment (but circa April 1942) describes him as ?Good type of officer He has worked exceptionally hard at his job. Well liked by Norwegian personnel who have at times agitated for his promotion, in a verbal manner, to the rank of Squadron Leader.? On 7 September 1943, G/C A. Ap Elliis (No.34 SFTS, Medicine Hat) wrote: ?I should like to express my thanks for the excellent liaison that has been carried out by the RCAF Liaison Officer, F/L S.G.K. MacDonald, with this unit. Without his assistance and personality I feel that such an efficient working between your Headquarters and this unit would not have existed.? On 16 September 1943, Lieutenant Colonel Ole Reistad (AOC NAF Training Centre) wrote to AFHQ, ?The Air Officer Commanding the RNAF Training Command in Canada wishe to express his great appreciation for the most valuable work which Flight Lieutenant MacDonald has performed during his period of service with the Royal Norwegian Air Force.? Letter, 28 February 1944, Lieutenant-Colonel O. Reistad (Air Officer Commanding, RNAF Training Centre in Canada) to Commanding Officer, No.16 SFTS, Hagersville re ?Conferring of King Haakron VII?s 70-years Commemorative Medal to F/L S.G.K. MacDonald: Flight Lieutenant S.G.K. MacDonald, who was attached to the Royal Norwegian Air Force Training Centre in the capacity of RCAF Liaison Officer, on King Haakron VII?s 70th birthday on August 3rd, 1942, has, along with all Norwegian military personnel in service on that day, been awarded King Haakron VII?s 70-years Commemorative Medal. As F/L MacDonald is at present attached to your unit, four ribbons for the mentioned medal is inclosed herewith, and it is requested, please, that theser ribbons be handed to F/L MacDonald with the compliments of the Royal Norwegian Air Force. The medal itself is not yet available, but will be forthcoming after the war. Permission for F/L MacDonald to accept the medal and wear the ribbon has been granted by the Canadian Authorities. As of 11 September 1944, the Department of Trade and Commerce (Finlay Sim, Acting Deputy Minister) wrote to James A. Sharpe (Assistant Deputy Minister, National Defence for Air) as per following: The above mentioned officer was employed in the Department of Trade and Commerce as Assistant Trade Commissioner at Oslo, Norway, during which time he became thoroughly familiar with the language and the customs of the people. He enlisted in December 1940, and was, I believe, liaison officer between the Norwegian Air Force and the RCAF at ?Little Norway? in Toronto. The Norwegian Government in exile is planning an early return to Norway and we have to complete the Canadian personnel. It is our desire that Mr. MacDonald be released from the Air Force immediately in order that he may be prepared to return to Norway on exceedingly short notice. Anything you can do to expedite this would be much appreciated.

MacDONALD, F/O Stewart (J36834) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.428 Squadron - Award effective 5 July 1945 as per London Gazette dated 20 July 1945 and AFRO 1619/45 dated 19 October 1945. Born 12 March 1912 in Little Sands, Prince Edward Island; home there (teacher); enlisted in Truro, Nova Scotia, 19 August 1942. To No.1 Manning Depot, 24 August 1942. To No.1 BGS, 22 October 1942 (guard). To No.1 ITS, 20 February 1943; graduated and promoted LAC, 30 April 1943 but not posted to No.1 AOS until 5 June 1943; graduated and commissioned, 15 October 1943. To “Y” Depot, 29 October 1943. Taken on strength of No.3 PRC, 31 October 1943. Promoted Flying Officer, 15 April 1944. Repatriated 18 April 1945. To Moncton, 30 April 1945. To No.1 RNS. 2 June 1945. Retired 12 September 1945. Died in Little Sands, 8 July 2001. Presented 7 April 1948. RCAF photo PL-40373 (ex UK-17137 dated 5 December 1944) shows three members of No.428 Squadron being debriefed by intelligence officer (back to camera) following raid on synthetic oil plant in the Ruhr. They are F/O W.M. Robinson (navigator, London, Ontario, F/O Stewart MacDonald (navigator, Little Sands, P.E.I.) and F/O J.K. Gibson (bomb aimer, Regina). No citation other than "completed...numerous operations against the enemy in the course of which [he has] invariably displayed the utmost fortitude, courage and devotion to duty". DHist file 181.009 D.1941 (RG.24 Vol.20612) has recommendation by W/C M.W. Gall dated 21 March 1945 when he had flown 31 sorties (191 hours 45 minutes), 27 August 1944 to 21 February 1945. Died in Charlottetown, 8 July 2001 as per Legion Magazine of November 2001. // The dauntless courage, determination and great devotion to duty shown by this officer have been an inspiration to all. Despite suffering from air sickness on every operation he has insisted on carrying on and has displayed a high degree of skill and ability as a navigator and by his efforts contributed to a major degree to the successful bombing by his crew of many heavily defended and extremely important targets. During his thirty-one operations his main objective was to press on and further the interest of the squadron, ignoring his personal feelings. // For extreme devotion to duty and great determination, I recommend the non-immediate award of the D.F.C. // The sortie list was as follows: // 27 August 1944 - Minoyecques (3.45) // 29 August 1944 - Stettin (9.35) // 25 September 1944 - Calais (4.20) // 27 September 1944 - Bottrop (5.05) // 28 September 1944 - Cap Gris Nez (3.35) // 4 October 1944 - Bergen (6.45) // 6 October 1944 - Dortmund (7.15) // 9 October 1944 - Bochum (6.20) // 14 October 1944 - Duisburg (5.00) // 14 October 1944 - Duisburg (5.40) // 15 October 1944 - Wilhelmshaven (5.10) // 28 October 1944 - Cologne (5.50) // 30 October 1944 - Cologne (6.15) // 1 November 1944 - Oberhausen (6.10) // 2 November 1944 - Dusseldorf (6.00) // 4 November 1944 - Bochum (6.15) // 6 November 1944 - Gelsenkircken (5.05) // 16 November 1944 - Julich (5.10) // 18 November 1944 - Munster (6.00) // 21 November 1944 - Castrop (6.20) // 27 November 1944 - Neuss (5.45) // 15 December 1944 - Ludwigshaven (6.35) // 21 December 1944 - Cologne (6.35) // 24 December 1944 - Dusseldorf (4.25) // 29 December 1944 - Scholven (7.05) // 30 December 1944 - Cologne (7.15) // 1 February 1945 - Ludwigshaven (6.35) // 7 February 1945 - Hassum (6.35) // 13 February 1945 - Dresden (11.15) // 20 February 1945 - Dortmund (7.25) // 21 February 1945 - Duisburg (6.40)

ALEXANDER F/L(P) J22384. From Stamford, Ontario. Killed in Action Jun 10/44 age 23. #429 Bison Squadron (Fortunae Nihil). Halifax aircraft #LV 973 missing during a night trip to Versailles, France. Four Canadians, F/Os Shields, Calderbank, P/O Mollison, and Sgt Chapman were taken Prisoners of War. Two of the crew, not Canadians, missing believed killed. Flight Lieutenant Pilot MacDonald is buried in the Churchyard at Friaize, Eure Et Loire, France. Addendum: Burial location is Eure et Loir. Detail provided by Joel Huard, Serquigny, France.