EDWARDS, Flight Lieutenant Harold - Order of St.Anne (Russia) - date and authority uncertain; listed by Ray Brough, White Russian Awards to British and Commonwealth Servicemen During the Allied Intervention in Russia 1918-1920 (London, Tom Donovan Publishing, 1991) and mentioned in his RCAF documents. Born in Chorley, England, 24 December 1892; home in New Aberdeen, Nova Scotia where his father was a miner and he also worked in pits. Later on electric engines and power house. Joined RNAS, 3 February 1916; to Victory, 27 February 1916; to White City, 17 April 1916; to Redcar, 25 April 1916; to Eastchurch, 13 August 1916; to No.3 (Naval) Wing, 29 August 1916; shot down and made prisoner of war, 14 April 1917 (Freiberg Raid); repatriated 14 January 1919. Served in Russia. Member of RCAF, awarded CB, 1 January 1943. See RCAF awards data base. EDWARDS, Flight Lieutenant Harold - Order of St.Anne Stanislaus (Russia) - date and authority uncertain; listed by Ray Brough, White Russian Awards to British and Commonwealth Servicemen During the Allied Intervention in Russia 1918-1920 (London, Tom Donovan Publishing, 1991) and mentioned in his RCAF documents. EDWARDS, Flight Lieutenant Harold - Mention in Despatches) - awarded as per London Gazette dated 17 July 1920.

EDWARDS, Flight Commander Stearne Tighe - Distinguished Service Cross - awarded as per London Gazette dated 2 November 1917. Born in Franktown, 13 February 1893; home in Carleton Place, Ontario (railway construction worker); attended Wright School, Dayton, Ohio and received ACA Certificate No.350 on 13 October 1915. Appointed Probationary Flight Sub-Lieutenant, Ottawa, 31 October 1915; at Eastchurch, 9 April 1916; with No.3 (N) Wing, 30 April 1916 to 9 March 1917; with No.11 (N) Squadron, 19 March to 22 April 1917; with No.6 (N) Squadron, 23 April to 18 July 1917; with No.9 (N) Squadron (No.209 Squadron after 1 April 1918), 10 August to 10 November 1917 and again from 29 January to 23 May 1918 (leave in Canada between these two postings). At No.38 Training Depot Station, 16 October 1918; injured in flying accident, 12 November 1918; died of injuries 22 November 1918. See biography by Hugh Halliday, “Stearne Tighe Edwards: Ace of Naval Nine”, Journal of the Canadian Aviation Historical Society, Volume 39, No.1 (Spring 1999). // In recognition of his services on the following occasions:- // On the 3rd September 1917, with his flight he attacked a two-seater Aviatik. The enemy machine was observed to go down in a vertical nose dive, and the enemy observer was seen to collapse in the cockpit. // On the 21st September 1917 he drove a two-seater enemy machine down out of control. // On the 23rd September 1917 he attacked an Albatross scout, which crashed into the sea. // On the same date he attacked three Albatross scouts. One got on the tail of another officer's machine at very close range, shooting him up very badly. Flight Commander Edwards attacked him from above, and the enemy machine turned on its back and went down in a vertical dive. He followed the enemy machine down to 8,000 feet, when its wings came off, and it fell to the ground. // Public Record Office file AIR 1/1031/204/5/1434, “Honours and Awards, Royal Flying Corps, December 1916 to August 1917" has recommendation dated 30 September 1917; provided courtesy of Frank Olynyk (CD images5736 and 5737). // On the 23rd of September 1917, Commander [sic] Edwards attacked three Albatross Scouts half a miles northeast of Dixmude. One enemy aircraft got on the tail of Flight Sub-Lieutenant Ingleson’s machine at very close range, shooting him up very badly. Flight Commander Edwards attacked from above and the enemy aircraft turned on his back and went down in a vertical dive. He followed the enemy machine down to 8,000 feet when its wings came off. The machine fell somewhere close to the Yser Canal just north of Dixmude (confirmed by a Belgian officer). // Again on September the 23rd, 1917 he attacked an Albatross Scout over Mariakerke which crashed in the sea near Ostende (confirmed by a Belgian aviator). // On the 21st of September 1917 Flight Commander Edwards accounted for an enemy two-seater machine which he drove down out of control over Zarren at 5.00 p.m. (confirmed by Flight Sub-Lieutenant Redgate). // On the 3rd of September 1917 he with his flight attacked a two-seater Aviatik over Middelkerke. The enemy machine was observed to go down in a vertical nose dive, and the enemy observer was seen to collapse in the cockpit. // This officer has been on Active Service for the last 15 months during which time he has done excellent work and over 250 hours war flying. // EDWARDS, Lieutenant (Temporary Captain) Stearne Tighe - Bar to Distinguished Service Cross - awarded as per London Gazette dated 21 June 1918. // For conspicuous bravery and most brilliant leadership of fighting patrols against enemy aircraft. On the 2nd May, 1918, whilst leading a patrol of four scouts, he encountered a hostile formation of eight enemy scouts and drove down one enemy machine completely out of control. Soon afterwards he engaged another formation of six enemy scouts, driving down one to its destruction whilst his patrol accounted for another. He only broke off the fight owing to lack of ammunition. He has destroyed or driven down out of control many enemy machines since he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, and has at all times shown the greatest gallantry and a fine offensive spirit. // NOTE: Public Record Office Air 1/1859/204/214/17 (selected copies held by National Archives of Canada, MG.40 D.1 Vol.30) has recommendation by Major Butler, No.209 Squadron, 4 May 1918, to Commanding Officer, 22nd Wing, Royal Air Force. Although detailed, it describes Edwards' exploits in reverse chronological sequence, including all major combats since award of DSC, quoting directly from his combat reports: // I wish to recommend the undermentioned officer for immediate award for marked skill and gallantry in aerial fighting during the present operations, particularly on the occasions mentioned hereon and since the award of the DSC to this Officer: // Captain S.T. Edwards, DSC // May 2nd 1918 (a) "Whilst on H.O.P., observed 10 e.a. scouts flying east along the Grand-Prix Road. I followed them as far as Brie on the Somme but was unable to gain much on them and could not get within effective range. Had just turned east when I observed 8 Albatross Scouts below us at 12,000 feet over Brie. I attacked with flight and followed them down to 8,000 feet. I got a long burst at long range into one enemy aircraft and it immediately stalled and started a slow spin. I was unable to watch it owing to the combat but Lieutenant Edwards saw it spin until under 1,000 feet where the haze was thick and he lost it. As the first flight of enemy aircraft which I had followed east were now above us and had commenced to dive I broke off and flew west. // (b) I was flying west along the Grand-Prix Road when I observed 6 Albatross Scouts with bright red noses over Cayeux at 8,000 feet. Attacked with flight and in the first dive I fired 100 rounds at very close range into the rear machine. It went down in a turning dive and was seen to crash by Lieutenant's Siddall and Edwards. The combat lasted about 10 minutes and I used all my ammunition without further result. All the pilots of the flight (5) were attacking continuously and I observed one of them to go very close to an enemy aircraft and open fire. The enemy aircraft went down in a turning vertical dive and appeared to be completely out of control. Only four of the enemy aircraft were left when I broke off combat owing to lack of ammunition." // April 12th, 1918 "Whilst on Inner Offensive Patrol, we were over Villers-Brittoneux when I observed A.A. over Amiens and climbed in that direction. Observed E.AS. coming directly towards me and at my height. I got into position close under its tail and fired one long burst. The enemy aircraft went into a spin and crashed at Sheet 62B N99." (Confirmed in RAF communique No.2) Crashed this side of lines. // April 2nd, 1918 "Whilst on Reserve Patrol south of Hallam I observed six enemy aircraft pass from beneath a cloud 300 feet directly under out formation. I attacked and [word - maybe line - not copied clearly] stalled and dived vertically. I followed for 3,000 feet and as enemy aircraft seemed to be regaining control, I opened fire again. The enemy aircraft turned on its back and went into a vertical dive and immediately broke up, the pieces narrowly missing my machine. I then attacked another enemy aircraft together with Lieutenant Siddall. After a short combat the enemy aircraft turned on its back and went down completely out of control." (Confirmed RAF Communique No.1). // October 27th, 1917 "Whilst on Hostile Artillery Aeroplane Emergency Patrol, observed nine enemy aircraft scouts diving on four Camels slightly above us over Slype. Made for Camels as quickly as possible but had not quite reached them when enemy aircraft opened fire on them and one Camel went down in a vertical dive and was not seen to pull out. I soon came within range of enemy aircraft and attacked. One enemy aircraft went into a turning vertical dive and appeared to be completely out of control. It fell into clouds at 2,000 feet and could not be observed further." // October 2nd, 1917 "When returning from Zeebrugge whilst on escort, I observed five two-seaters over Slype. Attacked with flight at 50 yards range and saw the enemy aircraft at which I was firing stall and spin down on its back completely out of control. The enemy aircraft was watched by two members of my flight until it reached a very low altitude and it was not seen to regain control." (Confirmed by No.4 Wing Communique RNAS). // September 29th, 1917 "Whilst on escort, was returning from Zeebrugge with DH.4 bombers when I met three two-seater Albatross. They immediately dived steeply and I followed to 2,000 feet over Middlekerke firing continuously when one enemy aircraft went into vertical dive and appeared to be out of control. Owing to very heavy AA fire I did not attempt to watch the enemy aircraft but turned for the lines. The remainder of my flight was above and saw two of the enemy aircraft flying east but lost sight of them. // September 28th, 1917 "Whilst on H.O.P, observed one Albatross scout just over our lines. Attacked and followed the enemy aircraft down to 700 feet when it went down out of control and crashed in the floods opposite Pervyse." (Confirmed by 4th Army Signals Station). // I wish to particularly recommend this officer as a Leader of great judgement and skill. His flight has done very well. // Public Record Office Air 1/1217/204/5/2634/6 N (copied into National Library and Archives, MG.40 D.1 Volume 21) has the following Combat Report from his service with No.6 (Naval) Squadron. // 4 June 1917 // Type of Aeroplane: Nieuport N.3102 // Armament: Vickers // Pilot: Flight Lieutenant S.T. Edwards // Time: 12.20 p.m. // Duty: Chasing H.A. // Locality: North of Havrincourt Wood // Height: 14,800 feet // Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: Two-seater. Much faster than Nieuport. // Narrative // H.A. passed over aerodrome. Went in pursuit and followed it north to about Arras, when it recrossed the lines. // On return journey saw another H.A. being shelled just north of Havrincourt Wood. Got under it at about 200 feet (unable to get higher) and attempted to use the Lewis on my top plane. It jammed without firing. // Got a series of bursts at it by stalling, with Vickers. After firing one burst in return, the H.A. turned for the lines and quickly climbed out of range. Followed it across the lines and returned. // Apparently the H.A. was not hit, or if so not seriously. // Copies of the following Combat Reports found in his biographical file at DHH: // 12 April 1918 // Type of Aeroplane: Sopwith BR-1 // Armament: two synchronized Vickers guns // Pilot: Captain Edwards and flight // Time: 1.15 p.m. // Duty: I.O.P. // Locality: east of Amiens. // Height: 15,000 feet // Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: Two-seater reconnaissance. // Narrative // We were over Villers Brettonneaux when I observed A.A. over Amiens and climbed in that direction. Observed E.A. coming directly towards me and at my height. I got into position close under his tail and fired one long burst. The E.A. went into a spin and crashed at 62 D N.9. // Observed E.A. over Allonville flying S.W. Got close behind about 500 feet below and opened fire. The E.A. turned East. I followed with six Camels and chased the E.A. beyond the lines, when all the guns were out of ammunition. The E.A. was apparently not hit. [signed by Major C.H. Butler and annotated “decisive”.] // 2 May 1918 // Type of Aeroplane: B7199 // Pilot: Captain S.T. Edwards, DSC // Time: 6.15 and 6.45 p.m. // Locality: (a) Brie (b) Cayeux // Height: (a) 12,000 feet (b) 8,000 feet // Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: Albatross scouts, D-5s.. // Narrative // (a) Observed ten E.A. scouts flying east along the Grand Prix Road. I followed them as far as Brie on the Somme but was unable to gain much on them and could not get within effective range. Had just turned East when I observed eight Albatross scouts below us at 12,000 feet over Brie. I attacked with flight and followed them down to 8,000 feet. I got a long burst at close range into one E.A. and it immediately stalled and started a slow spin. I was unable to watch it owing to the combat but Lieut [C.G.] Edwards saw it spin until under 1,000 feet where the haze was thick and he lost it. As the first flight of E.A. which I had followed East was now above us and had commenced to dive I broke off and flew West. // (b) I was flying West along the Grand Prix Road when I observed six Albatross scouts (bright red noses) over Cayeux at 8,000 feet. Attacked with flight and in the first dive I fired 100 rounds at very close range into the rear machine. It went down in a turning dive and was seen to crash by Lieutenants Siddall and Edwards. The combat lasted about ten minutes and I used all my ammunition without further result. All the pilots of the flight (5) were attacking continuously and I observed one of them to get very close to an E.A. and open fire. The E.A. went down in a turning vertical dive and appeared to be completely out of control. Only four of the eight E.A. were left when I broke off combat owing to lack of ammunition. [annotated “3 decisive” by Major Butler but Headquarters noted “one crashed, one out of control.”] // 15 May 1918 // Type of Aeroplane: Sopwith BR, B7109 // Armament: two synchronized Vickers guns. // Pilot: Captain S.T. Edwards, DSC // Time: 10.45 a.m.. // Duty: Special patrol // Locality: Rosieres // Height: 14,000 feet // Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: Pfalz scouts.. // Narrative // I was over Rosieres at 17,000 feet with one other Camel when I observed six Pfalz scouts below us. I attacked the rear machine of the E.A. formation at 75 yards range and followed it down in a steep dive. After I had fired several bursts, the E.A. went down in a turning dive completely out of control. The remaining five E.A. dived steeply in a south-easterly direction. [annotated “Not decisive. Machine out of control but not seen to crash.” Major J.O. Andrew, Commanding Officer, No.209 Squadron.] // 16 May 1918 // Type of Aeroplane: Camels S 308 [indistinct], B7109, B6398 // Armament: two synchonized Vickers // Pilots: Captain S.T. Edwards, DSC, Lieut W.R. May and Lieut M.S. Taylor // Time: 4.10 p.m. // Duty: Patrol and escort to Bombing machines. // Locality: Just North of Villers Bretonneux. // Height: 14,000 feet // Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: ten Triplanes. // Narrative // Patrol attacked Triplanes who were attacking two Breguets just north of Villers Bretonneaux. Captain Edwards aided by Lieutenants Taylor and May drove one E.A. down which landed just west of Corbie. [annotated by Major J.O. Andrew, “Decisive. I consider this machine should be given to Captain Edwards.”] // 19 May 1918 // Type of Aeroplane: Sopwith B.R. // Armament: Synchronized Vickers guns // Pilot: Captain S.T. Edwards // Time: 10.15 a.m and 11.00 a.m. // Duty: Special mission. // Locality: (a) Cavignes (b) south of Albert // Height: (a) 4,000 feet (b) 8,000 feet // Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: (a) two-seater Albatross (b) Two-seater (type unknown). // Narrative // (a) Attacked three E.A. over Cavigne and forced one to land on Cappy aerodrome. This E.A. appeared to have its engine damaged. // (b) Attacked two E.A. south of Albert and fired 200 rounds at one machine at 75 yards range. E.A. went down in a spin and appeared to be out of control. A machine crashed on the ground was later observed in that location by Lieutenant Benton. (annotated “Indecisive”). // Air 1/770/204/4/257 (Brigade Summaries, September 1917), copied into Library and Archives Canada MG 40 D.1 volume 17, reports the following under date 21 September 1917: // At 5.00 p.m. 21-9-17, two Sopwith Camels of Naval Squadron No.9 attacked a two-seater D.F.W. over Zarren. Over 500 rounds were fired into E.A. which then appeared to be on fire, and went into a nose dive. It was last seen by the two pilots, Flight Commander Edwards and Flight Sub-Lieutenant Redgate, in a vertical dive, leaving a thick trail of smoke behind it. The Belgian Flying Corps report that a German machine was brought down over Zarren at approximately this time.

EDWARDS, Sergeant Edward John (R59012) - Mention in Despatches - No.1659 Conversion Unit - Award effective 1 January 1945 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 425/45 dated 9 March 1945. Born 24 February 1915 in Winnipeg; enlisted there 27 May 1940 as Airframe Mechanic. To Technical Training School, St. Thomas, 5 July 1940. Promoted AC1, 27 August 1940. To No.4 SFTS, 13 November 1940. Promoted LAC, 9 February 1941. Promoted Corporal, 1 November 1941. Promoted Sergeant, 1 October 1942. To \"Y\" Depot, 11 March 1943. To RAF overseas, 27 March 1943. Repatriated 30 March 1945. To No.2 Air Command, 14 April 1945. To Release Centre, 6 June 1945. Released 21 June 1945.

EDWARDS, Sergeant (now P/O) Frank (R250812/J94422) - Distinguished Flying Medal - No.426 Squadron - Award effective 8 September 1945 as per London Gazette dated 25 September 1945 and AFRO 1768/45 dated 23 November 1945. Born 4 January 1915 in Toronto; home there. Agent (company not defined). Enlisted in Winnipeg, 16 March 1943. To No.1 Manning Depot, 25 March 1943. To No.3 BGS, 21 May 1943. To No.20 Pre-Aircrew Education Detachment, 15 June 1943. To No.7 ITS, 10 July 1943; promoted LAC, 17 September 1943; to Technical Training School, 11 November 1943; to No.4 BGS, 14 April 1944; promoted Sergeant, 29 April 1944 when posted to No.2 ANS; to \"Y Depot, 24 May 1944; taken on strength of No.3 PRC, 2 June 1944. Commissioned 19 February 1945. Promoted Flying Officer, 19 August 1945. Repatriated 21 January 1946. Retired 12 February 1946. Flight Engineer to F/L C.B. Benton. 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.2618 (RG.24 Vol.20627) has recommendation dated 21 April 1945 when he had completed 28 sorties (180 hours 45 minutes) between 27 November 1944 and 13 April 1945. Sergeant Edwards has completed a large number of sorties against targets in enemy territory. At all times he has displayed coolness and courage of the highest order. On several occasions when his aircraft had sustained damage by enemy action, Sergeant Edwards\' skill as a Flight Engineer, and devotion to duty, enabled his captain to complete the mission and return to base. The accompanying sortie list (which has only 27 entries) was as follows: 27 November 1944 - Neuss (5.55) 30 November 1944 - Duisburg (6.50) 2 December 1944 - Hagen (7.10) 4 December 1944 - Karlsruhe (7.00) 5 December 1944 - Soest (7.05) 6 December 1944 - Osnabruck (5.55) 17 December 1944 - Duisburg (5.30) 29 December 1944 - Trois Dorf (7.00) 30 December 1944 - Cologne (6.30) 2 January 1945 - Ludwigshaven (6.35) 5 January 1945 - Hanover (6.05) 13 January 1945 - Saarbrucken (7.40) 14 January 1945 - Gravenbroich (6.00) 16 January 1945 - Magdeburg (6.00) 4 February 1945 - Bonn (5.50) 8 February 1945 - Wanne Eickel (3.55) 13 February 1945 - Bohlen (8.10) 14 February 1945 - Chemnitz (8.30) 17 February 1945 - Wesel (6.10) 27 February 1945 - Mainz (7.05) 1 March 1945 - Mannheim (6.55) 2 March 1945 - Cologne (6.30) 11 March 1945 - Essen (6.05) 12 March 1945 - Dortmund (6.45) 13 March 1945 - Wuppertal (6.45) 4 April 1945 - Harburg (5.40) 13 April 1945 - Kiel (6.20)

EDWARDS, A/M Harold (C30) - Companion, Order of the Bath - RCAF Overseas Headquarters - Award effective 1 January 1943 as per London Gazette of that date and AFRO 55/43 dated 15 January 1943. Born in Chorley, Lancashire, England, 24 December 1892. Died in Arizona, 23 February 1952. RCAF photo PL-4436 (ex UK-156) shows F/L D.S. Patterson, S/L V.B. Corbett (Belleville), Air Minister C.G. Power, a Mr. Mackenzie, A/C L.F. Stevenson and A/C Harold Edwards “during a visit to an RCAF Fighter Station.” RCAF photo PL-19721 (ex UK-5520 dated 11 October 1943) shows G/C W.R. McBrien (left) conducting visitors to an RCAF Spitfire wimg, namely Air Marshal Harold Edwards, Mr. W.P. Bickell (left middle, Toronto) and Mr. Ralph Bell (Ottawa, Director of Aircraft Production for Canada). RCAF photo PL-19725 (ex UK-5524 dated 11 October 1943), Air Marshal Harold Edwards meets a fellow POW from the First World War, Major Constance Smythe (Toronto) in a briefing tent for RCAF Spitfire pilots. This officer has served with great distinction over a long period of time. As Air Member for Personnel, in the early days of the war, he made an invaluable contribution to the success of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan and the RCAF Home War Commands. His drive and personality together with his experience and foresight makes him an outstanding officer in every respect. This officer was subsequently chosen for the post of Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, RCAF Overseas, which appointment he has filled in an admirable manner. EDWARDS, A/M Harold (C30) - Officer of the Legion of Honour (France) - AFRO 485/47 dated 12 September 1947. EDWARDS, A/M Harold (C30) - Croix de Guerre avec Palm (France) - AFRO 485/47 dated 12 September 1947. External Affairs file “French Awards to Canadian Armed Forces - Particular Cases” (Library and Archives Canada, RG.25, Box 4140) has the following citation: Air Marshal Edwards was the first Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Royal Canadian Air Force Overseas, and was responsible for the organization of the Striking Force of the Royal Canadian Air Force which contributed in no small measure to the liberation of France. EDWARDS, A/M Harold, CB (C30) - Czechoslovak Order of the White Lion for Victory (Star, First Class) - Award effective 5 March 1948 as per AFRO 135/48 of that date. EDWARDS, A/M Harold (C30) - Commander, Legion of Merit (United States) - Award as per Canada Gazette dated 7 August 1948 and AFRO487/48 dated 13 August 1946. In addition to the citation noted below, documents cite his placement of his Overseas organization at the disposal of the USAAF in England, authorized transfer of senior officers to Major General Chaney's staff to provide experience, and expedited transfer of 1,400 highly trained American nationals from the RCAF. Air Marshal Edwards during the time that he held the appointment of Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Royal Canadian Air Force Overseas, was of great assistance to the United States Army Air Force in the European theatre, particularly during the initial period of organization in the United Kingdom, following the entry of the United States into the war. This officer was ever ready to provide any assistance, or information, which was requested of him, and the spirit of co-operation which he displayed is deserving of the highest praise. Air Marshal Edwards did much to foster cordial relations between members of the United States and Canadian Air Forces Overseas and the excellent relations which existed were due, in no small measure, to his efforts.

EDWARDS, P/O John Francis (J19824) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.115 Squadron - Award effective 24 May 1944 as per London Gazette dated 6 June 1944 and AFRO 1660/44 dated 4 August 1944. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, 3 December 1920. Home there. Enlisted there 7 July 1941 as a Guard and posted to No.4A Manning Depot. To Trenton, 1 August 1941. To “S”, 23 August 1941. Promoted AC1, 7 October 1941. Promoted LAC, 7 January 1942. Remustered to aircrew and posted to No.9 BGS, 16 July 1942; graduated and promoted Sergeant, 9 October 1942. To “Y” Depot, 1 November 1942. To RAF overseas, 22 November 1942. Promoted Flight Sergeant, 9 April 1943. Promoted WO2, 9 October 1943. Commissioned 7 January 1944. Promoted Flying Officer, 7 July 1944. Repatriated 28 October 1944. To No.1 BGS, 29 November 1944. To No.4 Release Centre, 9 February 1945. Retired 23 February 1945. Re-enaged with RCAF Auxiliary, 18 March 1952 to 31 March 1956 as Fighter Control Officer, No.2424 Squadron (162200). Also a Hamilton fire fighter. Died in Port Colborne, Ontario, 16 July 2013. No citation other than "completed...many successful operations against the enemy in which [he has] displayed high skill, fortitude and devotion to duty." Public Records Office Air 2/8780 has recommendation dated 18 March 1944 when he had flown 27 sorties (145 hours 20 minutes). 21 May 1943 - GARDENING, Frisians (3.15) 24 May 1943 - Dusseldorf (3.45) 27 May 1943 - Essen (4.10) 29 May 1943 - Wuppertal (4.25) 12 June 1943 - Bochum (4.10) 19 June 1943 - GARDENING, La Rochelle (5.45) 21 June 1943 - Krefeld (3.00) 3 July 1943 - Cologne (4.30) 27 August 1943 - Nuremburg (7.10) 22 September 1943 - Hanover (4.30) 23 September 1943 - Mannheim (5.30) 7 October 1943 - Stuttgart (6.10) 18 October 1943 - Hanover (5.00) 20 October 1943 - Leipzig (6.05) 3 November 1943 - Dusseldorf (3.15) 18 November 1943 - Berlin (6.35) 22 November 1943 - Berlin (5.30) 23 November 1943 - Berlin (6.15) 2 December 1943 - Berlin (5.45) 16 December 1943 - Berlin (6.25) 23 December 1943 - Berlin (6.40) 28 December 1943 - Berlin (6.35) 14 January 1944 - Brunswick (4.45) 27 January 1944 - Berlin (7.15) 30 January 1944 - Berlin (6.00) 15 February 1944 - Berlin (6.10) 20 February 1944 - Leipzig (6.45) This officer has completed 27 bombing operations as rear gunner in the crew captained by Pilot Officer Jolly, DFM, on the most heavily defended targets in Germany including ten operations in the "Battle of Berlin". Pilot Officer Edwards has proved a most capable gunner whose skill and coolness while under fire has been a source of great confidence to his crew. This officer, by his enthusiasm, both in the air and on the ground, has set a very high standard in the squadron.

EDWARDS, FS Robert Walter - (Can 10146) - British Empire Medal - AFHQ - Award effective 13 June 1946 as per Canada Gazette of that date and AFRO 660/46 dated 5 July 1946. Althiugh the AFRO gives name as Robert Walter, his pay car gives name as Walter Robert Edwards. Born 12 January 1914. Enlisted in Toronto, 2 May 1939 as Wireless Electrical Mechanic and posted that day to Trenton. Promoted AC1, 2 November 1939. To No.1 WS, 15 February 1940. To No.10 (BR) Squadron, 1 April 1940. Promoted LAC, 1 October 1940. Promoted Corporal, 1 October 1941. To Newfoundland, 24 February 1942. To AFHQ, 15 June 1942. Promoted Sergeant, 1 March 1943. Promoted Flight Sergeant, 1 April 1944. Remained in RCAF Reserve after war, reverting to Sergeant, 1 October 1946. Promoted Flight Sergeant, 1 October 1948. Promoted WO2, 1 April 1949. Awarded Queen\'s Coronation Medal, 23 October 1953, while with No.19 Wing (Auxiliary) Headquarters. Before and during the war Flight Sergeant Edwards has been engaged in the development and testing of airborne, shipborne and ground communication equipment. Since 1942, this non-commissioned officer has been actively engaged in the development of radar equipment in Canada. Whilst engaged in the Research Laboratories Detachment of the Royal Canadian Air Force at the National Research Council, Flight Sergeant Edwards did exceptional work on two main developments; namely, the Royal Canadian Air Force-National Research Council radar distance indicator and the shipborne splash indicator which was intended for use in the Pacific Theatre. The results of his work and his devotion to duty have served as an inspiration to the airmen who were working with him.

EDWARDS, F/L William Fraser (J24375) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.49 Squadron - Award effective 4 November 1944 as per London Gazette dated 14 November 1944 and AFRO 239/45 dated 9 February 1945. Born in Calgary, 20 December 1916; home there (teacher). Enlisted in Edmonton, 18 February 1942 and posted to No.3 Manning Depot. To No.10 Repair Depot, 1 April 1942. To No.4 ITS, 23 May 1942; graduated and promoted LAC, 17 July 1942 but not posted to No.5 EFTS until 29 August 1942; may have graduated 23 October 1942 but not posted to No.3 SFTS until 7 November 1942; graduated and commissioned 5 March 1943. To \"Y\" Depot, 19 March 1943; to RAF overseas, 26 March 1943. Promoted Flying Officer, 5 September 1943. Promoted Flight Lieutenant, 7 May 1944. Promoted Squadron Leader, date uncertain. Repatriated 3 May 1946. Retired 21 June 1946. Rejoined as Flight Lieutenant, Medical Branch, 4 May 1948 (120676) with rank of Flight Lieutenant and attached to No.418 (Auxiliary) Squadron, Edmonton; restored to Class \"E\" Reserve, 1 June 1948. Postwar was a doctor with Department of Veterans Affairs. RCAF photo PL-40150 (ex-UK-16773 dated 21 November 1944) has the following caption: \"Flight Lieutenant W.F. \'Bill\' Edwards, Edmonton, used to be a third-year medical student at the University of Alberta. Now Edwards (right) pilots an RAF Lancaster over Germany. Twice his rear gunner, WO2 Payn LeSoeur, Vancouver, has driven off enemy night fighters by a stream from his battery of .303 Brownings.\" 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 2/8827 has recommendation dated 15 August 1944 when he had flown 30 sorties (161 hours 55 minutes), 9 April 1944 to 26 July 1944. 9 April 1944 - Danzig (Mining) (8.40) 10 April 1944 - Tours (5.50) 18 April 1944 - Juvisy (4.40) 20 April 1944 - Paris, marshalling yards (4.40) 22 April 1944 - Brunswick (5.55) 24 April 1944 - Munich (9.50) 26 April 1944 - Schweinfurt (8.50) 7 May 1944 - Salbris (6.00) 9 May 1944 - Gennevilliers (4.05) 11 May 1944 - Bourg Leopold (3.15) 19 May 1944 - Amiens (4.25) 21 May 1944 - Kiel (Mining) (6.15) 22 May 1944 - Brunswick (6.05) 27 May 1944 - Marsalines (3.35) 31 May 1944 - Maisy (3.30) 2 June 1944 - Wimereux (3.40) 6 June 1944 - Caen (4.35 8 June 1944 - Pontabault (4.30) 9 June 1944 - Etamps (4.40) 12 June 1944 - Caen (5.00) 24 June 1944 - Pommereval(4.05) 4 July 1944 - Creil (4.50) 7 July 1944 Creil (4.30) 12 July 1944 - Culmont Chalindrey (7.35) 15 July 1944 - Nevers (7.25) 17 July 1944 - Caen (3.45) 20 July 1944 - Courtrai (3.10) 23 July 1944 - Kiel (4.35) 24 July 1944 - Donges (5.35) 26 July 1944 - Givors (8.40) This officer completed 30 operational sorties as captain of Lancaster aircraft on this Squadron, before volunteering for, and being posted to the Pathfinder Force. Many of these sorties were against targets where the enemy put up the heaviest defences. Flight Lieutenant Edwards pressed home his attacks without regerd to the oppostion, and never failed to bomb the target with great accuracy. He displayed exceptional qualities of leadership and his example was the main facator in the success of his crew. For his devotion to duty, and his skill and thoroughness in which he carried out any duty allotted to him, I strongly recommend that he be awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. EDWARDS, S/L William Fraser, DFC (J24375) - Bar to Distinguished Flying Cross - No.83 Squadron - Award effective 8 September 1945 as per London Gazette dated 21 September 1945 and AFRO 1704/45 dated 9 November 1945. As captain of aircraft Squadron Leader Edwards has shown a high degree of courage and efficiency on all his operations. He has been largely responsible for the success of many sorties by his skill, determination and keen devotion to duty. Since the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross, Squadron Leader Edwards has continued to display great gallantry, often in the execution of very hazardous tasks. In February 1945 his crew played an important part in ensuring the success of an attack on the oil refinery at Politz.

EDWARDS, P/O Gordon James (RAF 177700) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.405 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 17 November 1944. Born 1921 in Milford Haven, Pembroke; home there; educated at County School. Served in the ranks; commissioned June 1944. No citation other than "completed operations with courage and devotion to duty." Air Ministry Bulletin 16345/AL.922 refers. Public Record Office Air 2/8828 has recommendation drafted by G/C R.J. Lane (giving his Christian names as George James) and dated 20 August 1944 when he had flown 38 sorties (169 hours 29 minutes) as follows: * counted as 1/3 sortie ** Duty Not Carried Out; sortie not counted 15 Feb 44 - Berlin (6.41) 25 Feb 44 - Augsburg (6.55) 1 Mar 44 - Stuttgart (6.46) 15 Mar 44 - Stuttgart (6.44) 18 Mar 44 - Frankfurt (4.40) 22 Mar 44 - Frankfurt-am-Main (5.19) 24 Mar 44 - Berlin (6.49) 30 Mar 44 - Nuremburg (6.47) 18 Apr 44 - Terquier (2.58)* 24 Apr 44 - Karlsruhe (2.10)** 26 Apr 44 - Villeneuve St.George (3.57)* 27 Apr 44 - Montzen (3.16) 3 May 44 - Montdidier (3.03) 10 May 44 - Ghent (2.24) 11 May 44 - Boulogne (2.39) 19 May 44 - Le Mans (4.04) 22 May 44 - Le Mans (4.33) 31 May 44 - Trappes (3.54) 2 June 44 - Trappes (3.23) 5 June 44 - Longues (3.08) 10 June 44 - Versailles (3.46) 12 June 44 - Amiens (2.37) 15 June 44 - Lens (2.23) 16 June 44 - Renescure (1.54) 17 June 44 - Oisement (2.25) 24 June 44 - M-Straete (1.56) 28 June 44 - Metz (5.11) 2 July 44 - Oisement (2.12) 7 July 44 - Caen (2.26) 10 July 44 - Nucourt (2.42) 20 July 44 - Courtrai (2.03) 23 July 44 - Kiel (5.17) 24 July 44 - Stuttgart (7.02) 25 July 44 - Stuttgart (7.18) 28 July 44 - Stuttgart (6.16) 4 Aug 44 - L'isle Adam (2.49) 7 Aug 44 - TOTALIZE 5 (2.27) 8 Aug 44 - Lucheux (2.50) 10 Aug 44 - La Pallice (5.14) 12 Aug 44 - Russelheim (4.43) This officer is a skilled Bomb Aimer is a very successful crew. He has participated in many raids against strongly defended enemy areas, but this has not deterred him from successfully carrying out his allotted tasks in a highly efficient and courageous manner. The devotion to duty displayed by Pilot Officer Edwards under most trying circumstances is highly commendable. Strongly recommended for the non-immediate award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. Note: For a Combat Report in his career (? March 1944) see DFC entry for F/L R.W. Long, RCAF.

PUGH, Lieutenant John Edwards - Military Cross - awarded as per London Gazette dated 22 June 1917. Born in Great Soughall, Chester, England, 29 April 1890, and educated there, 1896-1906. Joined Department of Indian Affairs, 1913. Served Canadian Expeditionary Force, 1914-1917 (Alberta Regiment). In RFC, to Reading, 16 April 1917; to No.46 Training Station, 4 July 1917; served with No.25 Squadron, 29 September (or 2 October) 1917 to 12 June 1918; to Home Establishment, 12 June 1918; to Midlands Area, 13 July 1918 (DH.4 pilot); to Air Ministry, 3 October 1918; to No.4 Aircraft Supply Depot, 8 October 1918; to served with No.210 Squadron, 13 October to 7 December 1918; to Canadian Headquarters, 7 December 1918; to No.35 Training Depot Station, 12 December 1918; relinquished commission on ceasing to be employed, 21 January 1919. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He carried out twenty successful bombing raids and fifteen long-distance photographic reconnaissances, showing great determination in carrying out his work, in spite of strong opposition by enemy aircraft. In two days he took 108 photographs in course of long-distance flights. During a period of five days he dropped three-quarters of a ton of bombs on enemy troops and transport, and engaged ground targets with machine gun fire from a low altitude. On one occasion whilst on a bombing raid he was attacked by five enemy machines, one of which he destroyed. He set a splendid example of skill and resource.

H.D. 41837. P/O. Edwards was killed on September 11, 1940, not October 07, 1940. Detail provided by F. McAfee, Regina, SK.

ALBERT GORDON F/L(N) J13417//R156042. From Bolton, Ontario. Killed In Action Mar.15/45 age 23. #431 Iroquois Squadron (The Hatiten Ronteriios). Target - Hagen, Germany. Please see Repsys P.P. for casualty list and flight detail. Flight Lieutenant Navigator Edwards is buried in the Communal Cemetery, Perwez, Brabant, Belgium.

CHARLES MERVYN SGT(WAG) R224812. From Hamilton, Ontario. Killed In Action Jun.9/44 age 20. #4 Bomber Reconnaissance Squadron, Ucluelet, Brtish Columbia. Canso aircraft crashed. Please see Kee J.G. for casualty list and flight detail. Sergeant Wireless Operator Air Gunner Edwards is buried in Woodland Cemetery, Hamilton, Ontario.

CHARLES STANLEY RUTHERFORD SGT(AG) R69694. From Woodstock, Ontario. Killed In Action Jul.7/41 age 20. #115 Squadron (Despite The Elements), Marham, Norfolk, England. Target - Munster, Germany. Please see Strachan W.A. for casualty list and flight detail. Sergeant Air Gunner Edwards has no known grave, his name is inscribed on the Runnymede War Memorial, Englefield Green, Egham, Surrey, England.

DUDLEY JACK F/O(P) J21619. From Excel, Alberta. Killed Feb.25/43 age 20. #403 Wolf Squadron (Stalk And Strike). F/O. Edwards was flying in clouds and lost control of his Spitfire aircraft # BF 287. He was killed when the aircraft went into a spin and crashed at Stone Green Farm, Marsham, England. Flying Officer Pilot Edwards is buried in the Brookwood Military Cemetery, Woking, Surrey, England.

GEORGE SYDNEY FS(P) R71736. From Toronto, Ontario. Killed In Action Nov.28/42 age 20. #249 Squadron (Pugnis Et Calcibus). FS. Edwards lost his life after he received a homing fix to Malta and then flew his Spitfire aircraft in the opposite direction. Flight Sergeant Pilot Edwards has no known grave, his name is inscribed on the Malta War Memorial, Malta.

HARRY DAVIES P/O(P) 41837 - Royal Air Force. From Winnipeg, Manitoba. Killed In Action Oct.7/40 age 24. #92 Squadron (Aul Pugna Aut Morere). P/O. Edwards fought in the Battle of Dunkirk and was shot down during the Battle of Britain. He was killed when his Spitfire aircraft crashed at Smeeth, Kent. P/O. Edwards was an ace credited with having destroyed five enemy aircraft. He once downed a German Heinkel aircraft then landed beside it to help the crew to get out of their burning bomber. Pilot Officer Pilot Edwards is buried in the New Cemetery, Folkestone, Kent, England.

JOHN HARVEY F/O(P) J21216//R109350. From Vancouver, British Columbia. Killed In Action Apr.7/43 age 21. #405 City of Vancouver Squadron (Ducimus), Pathfinder Force. Halifax aircraft lost. Please see Stuart R.V. for casualty list and flight detail. Flying Officer Pilot Edwards is buried in the Communal Cemetery, St. Martin, on lie de Re, in the Bay of Biscay, Charenet-Maritime, France.

LLOYD GEORGE WO2(P) R69087. From Sault St. Marie, Ontario. Killed In Action Oct.10/42 age 20. #92 Squadron (Aut Pugna Aut Morere). WO. Edwards was killed when he made a belly landing in his Spitfire aircraft in the sea 400 yards off the coast, twenty five miles west of Daba. WO. Edwards had been injured on October 12, 1941 when he crashed at Horstead Hall in Spitfire # P 7971 . He was landing when he crashed one mile south of the aerodrome at Cotishall. Warrant Officer Class II Pilot Edwards is buried in the Hadra Cemetery, Alexandria, Egypt.

MEDWYN P/O(OB) J7790. From Corwin, North Wales. Killed In Action May.29/42 age 31. #415 Swordfish Squadron (Ad Metam). Hampden aircraft lost. Please see Sargent D.H. for casualty list and flight detail. Pilot Officer Observer Edwards has no known grave, his name is inscribed on the Runnymede War Memorial, Englefield Green. Egham, Surrey, England.