Chambers, Leonard (Len)

Operation Chastise (Dambusters Raid)

Date of birth:: February 18th, 1919 (Karamea, New Zealand)
Date of death:: March 1st, 1985 (Karamea, New Zealand)
Service number:: NZ403758
Nationality:: New Zealander

Biography

Leonard Chambers, born on 18 February 1919 in Karamea, New Zealand, joined the RNZAF in September 1940. After training as a wireless operator/air gunner, he was posted to England, serving first with 460 Squadron (RAAF) on 20 missions, then with 75 (NZ) Squadron, completing 37 more and becoming Squadron Signals Leader.

Recruited for 617 Squadron, Chambers participated in the Dams Raid, earning a Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC). He flew six additional missions before leaving the squadron to train as a pilot, though he never flew operationally in that role.

Chambers returned to New Zealand in November 1944, leaving the RNZAF in 1945. Post-war, he worked as a carpenter and builder. He passed away in Karamea on 1 March 1985.

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Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Flying Officer
Unit:: No. 617 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:: May 28th, 1943
Awarded for:: Operation Chastise

Citation:
"On the night of i6th May, 1943, a force of Lancaster bombers was detailed to attack the Moehne, Eder and Sorpe dams in Germany. The operation was one of great difficulty and hazard, demanding a high degree of skill and courage and close co-operation between the crews of the aircraft engaged. Nevertheless, a telling blow was struck at the enemy by the successful breaching of the Mohne and Eder dams. This outstanding success reflects the greatest credit on the efforts of the following personnel who participated in the operation in various capacities as members of aircraft crew."