Date of birth:

October 4th, 1898

Date of death:

July 4th, 1987

Service number:

8187 / 15065

Nationality:

British

Edward Barker Addison began his military service in the Royal Flying Corps in 1915 as an Air Mechanic. He steadily rose through the ranks, becoming a commissioned officer in 1918 and later joining the Royal Air Force. His early career was marked by technical and instructional roles, especially in wireless and signals operations.

Addison attended Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge, and earned qualifications in engineering and languages, including French interpretation. He held numerous postings across India, the Middle East, and Europe, often in administrative and signals capacities.

His technical acumen led to key appointments such as Signals Officer at the Electrical and Wireless School and later Director of Signals and Director of Telecommunications during World War II.

In 1940, Addison was tasked with developing countermeasures against German radio beam navigation systems—a critical role in the defense of Britain. He commanded No. 80 Wing, which was formed specifically for this purpose. His wartime service culminated in leadership of No. 100 Group, responsible for electronic warfare and radar countermeasures.

Post-war, Addison continued to shape RAF communications strategy as Director-General of Signals and Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Signals). He retired on 29 April 1955 and passed away on 4 July 1987.

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• - SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 15 SEPTEMBER, 1939
  - THE LONDON GAZETTE, 10 JANUARY, 1947
  - SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 8 JUNE, 1939
  - SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 1 JANUARY, 1945
  - SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 1 JANUARY, 1942
  - WW1 Medal Card