Tracing award of DFC

[Chris Basey]

New to the forum and new to WW2 RAF research so please excuse my ignorance in asking how it is possible to trace the award of DFC medal to Squadron Leader George Ernest WESTON 41885 Pilot, 61 Squadron RAF. From New Zealand a regular officer in RAF died 1 October 1942 age 23.

Any help will be greatly appreciated.

[simon]

I've never attempted anything like this myself, but if I were going to I'd probably try contacting the Squadron itself if they are still in existence, if not (which is more than likely) have a look on the internet there may be a 61 Squadron Association, many old units have associations dedicated to keeping alive the memories of their achievements. Contacting the RAF directly may get some results, but if you choose to do so be very patient as the official channels tend to be the slowest.

Failing that the RAF Association may be able to help or at least point you in the right direction, or if you have the time and are really dedicated, the Public Records Office may yield some results.

If you have details, such as the date of the award or action, you may find something about it if you can get ahold of old local newspapers, either local to the squadron or to Squadron Leader Weston's home town.

One other option is to travel to the location of 61 Sqn, there may be a small local museum or maybe some of the locals may be able to help.

Whichever route you choose always include as much information in your correspondence as possible, you never know what little seemingly irrelevant snippet might trigger a memory or recollection. And if you want a reply always include and SAE, it's polite and it is more likely to get a response.

Good Luck!

[Chris Basey]

Simon

Very good of you to take the trouble to put down your helpful suggestions - all to be tried in due course. Much appreciated.

Chris Basey

[upkeep]

61 Squadron operated lancasters at Syerston on Nottinghamshire from 1942 and I think later moved to Skellingthorpe. They flew more operational sorties than any other bomber command Squadron and won one V.C. awarded to Bill Read.

There is a wealth of information at the Public Record Office. I'm sure the library there will list the DFC awards.

My Uncle was KIA on 16/17 April 1943 on the Pilsen raid. He was the observer on W4317 QR-R a Mk1 Lancaster the aircraft was shot down by nightfighter flown by Oblt. Rudolf Altendorf of 2./NJG4 based at Florrennes. The aircraft crashed one KM s.e. of Givry in Belgium.

There is a museum address which is 50/61 Squadron Museum, Union Road, Lincoln. UK Phone 01522 873622

[upkeep]

Also recommend the books by Chorley called 'Bomber Command losses' for each year. They list the losses and often the date the DFC or whatever, was gazetted.

[QRroger]

Re: WESTON Geo Ernest 61 Sqn pilot

I'm member of 50/61 Sqn Assoc & my copy of the 50/61 Sqn `Roll of Honour' indicates that Geo Ernest WESTON (& crew) were lost on Wismar operation 01/10/42 in Lanc R5703. (Also have details of crew inc. rank/role/place of burial - if of interest).

Re: DFC award - there is a book (2 volumes?) indicating DFC awards. I believe I know a `user friendly' book dealer for the info you require.

[email protected]

[QRroger]

Thanks for your email Chris.
Can advise ...

Avro Lancaster R5703 61Sqn RAF lost outbound on Wismar operation.
(Elec. malfunction operated in-flight dinghy release/inflation which fouled the tailplane & thus loss of control & crash).

WESTON, George Ernest 41885 Sqn/Ldr Pilot age23
Buried: Hemblington
BELLCHAMBERS, Frederick George 1221132 Sgt Flt Eng age(?)
Buried: Newark
HAWES, George Alan 127491 P/O Nav age22
Buried: Eastbourne (Ocklynge)

(note: uncertain of crew positions of the following)
GALLAWAY, Lloyd George J/16499(RCAF) P/O Air Gnr age 26
Buried: Newark
HANSON, Joseph Edward 46968 F/O W.Op/AG age 24
Buried: Shipley (Nab Wood)
RAMSEY, JM (?) Sgt (?) age(?)
Buried: (?)
ROBINSON, Jack Machin 1057338 Sgt W.Op/AG age 26
Buried: Sheffield (Darnall)

[QRroger]

Re: DFC

Have enquired regarding a local bookdealer who I know has a personal copy of the book I mentioned - & hope to contact tomorrow.

I'd guess that Geo Weston (given his rank) would be on a 2nd tour of duty & been awarded his DFC for completion of his 1st (30 Op) tour. Only a `guess' mind!

[QRroger]

Re: George WESTON DFC (immediate award!)

F.O. 50 Sqd
London Gazette 14.3.1941 : 1523
One night in February, 1941, Flying Officer Weston was detailed to attack an enemy vessel lying in the dock at Brest. Owing to extreme darkness and exceptional searchlight and anti-aircraft opposition, great difficulty was encountered in locating the target. Although his starboard engine failed, F.O. Weston persisted in his search and, in the face of an increasingly heavy and accurate barrage, eventually located his target and pressed home his attack with a full load of bombs. On the return journey, while over the English Channel his engine picked up but again failed. By skilful handling of his aircraft, however, he succeeded in reaching his base where he landed safely. He displayed outstanding gallantry, skill and determination throughout.

[QRroger]

Re: DFC

Previous post & following provided thanks to Tim Chamberlin of Lancaster Books ...

Note
50 Sqd were flying from
Hatfield Woodhouse (re-named Lindholme in mid-Aug 1940) Yorkshire
July 1940 – July 1941
Aircraft were Hampdens.
On checking Bomber Command War Diaries – I believe the attack was 24/25th February 1941

[QRroger]

Re: Sgt RAMSEY

My copy of the 50/61 Sqn `Roll of Honour' does not show Sgt Ramsey listed - however I've consulted a 61 Sqn `Roll of Honour' (1999) which reveals ...

RAMSEY, John McFadyen 1365084 Sgt age22
d.01/10/42 buried Lasswade Cmty, Midlothian