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Dow, James Richard

Date of birth:
1919 (Winnipeg/Manitoba, Canada)
Service number:
J5691
Nationality:
Canadian (1931-present, Constitutional Monarchy)

Biography

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Flight Lieutenant
Unit:
No. 635 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:
August 15th, 1944
Recommendation:
"Flight Lieutenant Dow has completed a great number of operational sorties with Bomber Command, in the course of which he has displayed great skill in navigation and bombing. His efforts have contributed largely to the navigational success of his crew.

The Station Commander added to this:
"Although a proportion of this officer's operations have been against relatively lightly defended targets in the Middle East [sic], almost all the last twenty have been against heavily defended targets in Germany, including Berlin seven times. He is a most determined but at the same time cheerful aircrew, and has been an inspiration to the rest of his crew."
Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Squadron Leader
Unit:
No. 635 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:
October 31st, 1944
Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)
One night in August 1944, this officer was the bomb aimer in one of a force of bombers detailed to attack Stettin. By his appreciation of the responsabilities entrusted to him, together with the accuracy of his bombing, Sqn.Ldr. Dow played an important part in the success of the operation. This officer has rendered most valuable service.

London Gazette dated 31st October 1944.

Second DFC awarded as a bar for on the ribbon of the first DFC.
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Squadron Leader
Unit:
No. 635 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:
February 16th, 1945
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
Since being awarded a Bar to the DFC, this officer has participated in many sorties against dangerous targets. The success achieved reflects the greatest credit on the effort of Sq.Ldr. Dow, whose skill and determination have been outstanding. On one occasion in September 1944, he was air bomber in an aircraft detailed to attack a target near Calais. Owing to the proximity of our ground forces, precise bombing was essential. Considerable anti-aircraft fire was directed at his aircraft whilst over the target. Nevertheless, Sq.Ldr. Dow executed a successfull attack from a low level. This officer has displayed the finest qualities of gallantry and devotion to duty.
London Gazette dated February 13th, 1945.

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