Appleby, Frank Ernest

Operation Chastise (Dambusters Raid)

Date of birth:: November 3rd, 1921 (Eastbourne/Sussex, United Kingdom)
Date of death:: September 15th, 1996 (Eastbourne/Sussex, United Kingdom)
Service number:: 652494
Nationality:: British

Biography

Frank Ernest Appleby was born on 3 November 1921 in Eastbourne, Sussex, as one of eight children of Thomas and Ethel Appleby. His father worked as a gas fitter. Appleby joined the RAF in August 1939 at age 18, initially serving as ground crew before training as a flight engineer.

In October 1942, Appleby joined 1654 Conversion Unit. After completing 18 missions in 97 Squadron, he joined 617 Squadron in March 1943.

During the Dams Raid, their mission was cut short by flak damage over the Dutch coast. Two months later, Appleby resumed operations, including a mission to attack Italian power stations, followed by a landing in liberated Algeria. His tour ended in July 1944.

In April 1944, Appleby was recommended for the Distinguished Flying Medal (DFM).

In July 1944, Munro and his crew were relieved from operations, having each completed over 50 missions. Appleby transitioned to administrative and training roles in the RAF until the war's end, after which he returned to civilian life.

Frank Appleby passed away in Eastbourne on 15 September 1996.

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Distinguished Flying Medal (DFM)

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Flight Sergeant
Unit:: No. 617 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:: June 30th, 1944

"Sorties 39. Flying Hours 248.25.
Flight Sergeant Appleby has completed 39 operational sorties as a Flight Engineer against heavily defended targets in Germany, Italy and France. He began operating in January 1943, and chose on the expiration of his first tour to carry on without a rest period. He has always enjoyed the complete confidence of his captain by his capable handling of the engines. When the aircraft has been heavily engaged by enemy defences, he has always displayed exceptional calmness and presence of mind. Since volunteering in March 1943 to join a special duties squadron, his utter contempt for personal safety and unflinching courage have proved an inspiration to all his crew. He is therefore strongly recommended for the award of the Distinguished Flying Medal. (10 April 1944)."