204759 Wing Cmdr. Eric Martin Mitchell DFC, CD.Royal Canadian Air Force 431 Squadron from:Halifax, Nova Scotia W/Cmdr Eric Martin Mitchell (C175) Distinguished Flying Cross was stationed at Croft. His award was effective 5th April 1945 as per London Gazette dated 13 April 1945 and AFRO 824/45 dated 18 May 1945. He was born 1912 in Halifax and lived in Ottawa. He was educated at Nova Scotia Tech and Acadia University and was a member of the COTC. Eric enlisted as a Provisional Pilot Officer on 13th June 1935 and qualified for his wings, 26th May 1936. His citation reads "completed...numerous operations against the enemy in the course of which [he has] invariably displayed the utmost courage and devotion to duty." DHist file 181.009 D.1634 (RG.24 Vol.20604) has recommendation by G/C R.S. Turnbull, commanding No.64 Base, not dated but sent to AOC No.6 Group on 25 January 1945, at which time Mitchell had flown 27 operational sorties (161 hours 40 minutes), 12 June 1944 to 16 January 1945.
During this officer's service career he has proven
himself to be a fearless and courageous leader, and at
all times has shown outstanding ability in all his
work.
Since his commencement of operations, this officer
has displayed determination, fortitude and
exceptional tactical ability. Such targets as Hanau,
Merseberg, Zeitz, [and] Ludwigshaven have been
attacked with outstanding skill and precision, setting
an inspiring example to all his squadron. Under his
keen and capable guidance his unit has been welded
into a strong and determined bomber force.
RESEARCHER'S NOTE: The following is added to a pencil draft of the citation but not to a typed draft:
For his superb captaincy and airmanship, his
undoubted courage and devotion to duty and his
magnificent leadership of his squadron I recommend
the immediate award of the Distinguished Flying
Cross.
He remained in the RCAF postwar, rising to Group Captain by 1957 and was Commanding Officer, Station Goose Bay, July 1955 to July 1957.
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