Flying Officer William Gerald Phelan DFC
About 425 Alouette Squadron
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/425_Tactical_Fighter_Squadron
425 Squadron, the first French Canadian squadron, was formed on 22 June 1942 at RAF Dishforth in Yorkshire, England, as a bomber unit flying Vickers Wellingtons. On the night of 5/6 October 1942, the squadron went into action for the first time, bombing Aachen with a small number of aircraft. In 1943, the squadron flew to Kairouan, Tunisia, and from there, it conducted operations against Italy and Sicily, returning to the UK in November of the same year. In December, they were re-equipped with Handley Page Halifaxes and flew their first mission with these aircraft in February 1944. Their final operation took place on 25 April 1945, when they bombed gun batteries on the tiny Frisian island of Wangerooge. Following the end of the war in Europe, in May 1945, 425 Squadron re-equipped again, this time with Avro Lancaster Mk X’s. In June, they flew back to Canada to prepare for their role in the Tiger Force for the continuing war against Japan. The use of atomic bombs precluded the need for Tiger Force, and 425 was disbanded on 5 September 1945 at RCAF Station Debert, less than three weeks after the Japanese surrender.
On January 13, 1944 Warrant Officer WC Phelan was taken on strength with 425 Alouette Squadron.
F.541- Add the following crew to battle order 188.
W.G. Phelan Pilot
S.A. Bascom A/B
S.H. Jacobs Nav.
E.R. Burgess W/AG
D.J. Fontana R/AG
W. Brierley MU/AG
G.W. Bayne F/E R.A.F.
By using the Operations Record Books we are able to follow his service with the Alouettes.
The crew will not fly on operations until May 1944.
Flight Lieutenant Stephen Arthur Bascom DFC was William Gerald Phelan’s bomb aimer. Like William Gerald Phelan he was also an Alouette. They flew the same sorties. This is Flight Lieutenant Stephen Arthur Bascom DFC’s citation found on Airforce.ca Website.
Source: https://www.rcafassociation.ca
All his sorties are listed below.
Flight Lieutenant Stephen Arthur Bascom DFC
BASCOM, F/L Stephen Arthur (J23370)
– Distinguished Flying Cross
– No.420 Squadron
– Award effective 10 May 1945 as per London Gazette dated 22 May 1945 and AFRO 1147/45 dated 13 July 1945.
Born October 1916 in Whitby, Ontario; home in Toronto (bank clerk); enlisted there 26 April 1939 as Clerk.
Promoted LAC, 24 February 1940.
Promoted Corporal, 1 May 1940.
To AFHQ, 15 June 1940.
Promoted Sergeant, 1 February 1941.
To No.4 WS, 7 July 1941.
Remustered to aircrew and posted to No.1 ITS, 1 August 1942;
to No.4 AOS, 21 November 1942; graduated 5 February 1943 when commissioned; posted next day to Mountain View; to No.1 BGS, 22 February 1943.
To \ »Y\ » Depot, 2 August 1943; to the United Kingdom, 28 August 1943.
Promoted Flying Officer, 5 August 1943; promoted Flight Lieutenant, 5 February 1945.
Retained rank of Flight Lieutenant as on 1 October 1946.
Promoted Squadron Leader, 1 June 1951.
Security Officer in postwar RCAF Headquarters.
Portrait painted overseas by Eric Aldwinckle.
Medal presented 1 April 1949.
No citation other than
« completed…numerous operations against the enemy in the course of which [he has] invariably displayed the utmost fortitude, courage and devotion to duty ».
DHist file 181.009 D.1746 (PAC RG.24 Vol.20608) has recommendation dated 11 January 1945 when he had flown 29 sorties (133 hours 33 minutes):
As an Air Bomber, this officer has completed a large number of sorties against enemy targets, and his work in the air has always been of the highest standard. On several occasions, Flying Officer Bascom has coolly directed his skipper in an orbit in the face of very heavy defenses, to ensure the accuracy of his bombing. A resolute and determined Bomb Aimer, Flying Officer Bascom has contributed greatly to the success of his crew.
The sortie list was as follows: some details added from
http://www.6bombergroup.ca/
9 May 1944 – Calais (3.10)
20 Lancasters from 408 and 419 Squadrons were joined by 88 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 433, and 434 Squadrons in an attack of 2 coastal gun batteries at Calais and St. Valery en Caux. The crews were over the targets at between 5,000 and 11,000 feet, releasing 928,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, they were accurately bombed.
Note: information taken from the Operations Record Book
Phelan’s crew was flying Halifax LW394 KW-H on that sortie.
Take-off 21.50
Landing 01.00
Bomb load: 1 x 1000, 14 x 500 dropped from 12,000 ft. at 2330 hrs in concentration of red T.I’s. Bombs bursts well concentrated on markers. PFF markers first seen to go down 2325 hrs. PFF markers good. Route good. Bombs concentrated on T.I. markers. Appeared to be a good attack. Weather: hazy.
10 May 1944 – Ghent (4.15)
24 Lancasters from 408 and 419 squadrons were joined by 90 Halifaxes from 420, 425, 426, 428, 429, and 433 squadrons on an attack of the rail yard at Ghent. The crews were over the target at between 9,000 and 11,000 feet, releasing 957,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, this attack was successful.
19 May 1944 – Mouliar, Merville-Franceville (3.30)
15 Lancasters from 408 Squadron were joined by 42 Halifaxes from 420, 425, and 426 Squadrons on an attack of the coastal guns at Merville-Franceville. The crews were over the target at between 7,000 and 8,500 feet, releasing 318,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports there was haze over the target and bombing was scattered.
F/O W. Phelan from 425 Squadron landed at Westcott on return.
22 May 1944 – Le Mans (3.20)
112 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 432, and 433 Squadrons were ordered on an attack of the rail yards at Le Mans. The crews were over the target at between 7,000 and 9,000 feet, releasing 826,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, bombing was accurate and severe damage was caused.
F/O W. Phelan from 425 Squadron had the stbd inner u/s on return. They landed safely at base on 3 engines. F/Sgt J. Lecaille was involved in a collision over the target. The tail wheel was torn off. On landing the wing hit the ground and they ground looped. There were no injuries to the crew.
+ P/O E. Laporte RCAF and crew, flying Halifax III LK-810 coded KW-Y, failed to return from this operation.
+ Sgt N. Ward RAF
+ F/O J. Tetrault RCAF
+ F/Sgt J. Mallette RCAF
+ W/O1 J. Laing RCAF
+ Sgt J. Levasseur RCAF
Sgt R. McGowan RCAF–POW
6 crew were killed and 1 POW.
27 May 1944 – Bourg Léopold (4.20)
32 Lancasters from 408 and 419 Squadrons were joined by 117 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, and 432 Squadrons in an attack on the military camp at Bourg Leopold. The crews were over the target at between 8,000 and 12,000 feet, releasing 1,191,000 lbs of high explosives.
According to reports, bombing was accurate.
F/O E. Kirk from 425 Squadron was attacked by an enemy aircraft, it was claimed destroyed. P/O L. Brochu landed at Chedburgh on return. P/O L. Terroux landed at Desborough on return. W/O2 J. Jean, F/Sgt J. Gaudry, W/Cdr L. Lecomte, P/O C. Jones, and P/O P. Hache landed at Barford St. John on return. W/O2 V. Vincent tried to land at Shipdham due to a fuel shortage. They overshot 4 times in poor visibility and crash-landed. The crew was not injured.
9 June 1944 – Le Mans (5.50)
76 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 426, 431, 432, and 434 squadrons were joined by 24 Lancasters from 408 and 419 squadrons in attacking the airfield at Le Mans. The crews were over the target from between 1,000 and 7,000 feet releasing 838,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports this attack was successful and the airfield was well hit.
Sgt. T. Barton of 425 squadron was hit by flak and attacked by a JU-88. There was no damage or claim on the fighter and flak damage wasn’t serious.
10 June 1944 – Versailles (5.25)
100 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 squadrons were joined by 10 Lancasters from 419 squadron on an attack of the rail yards at Versailles. The crews were over the target from between 6,000 and 8,000 feet releasing 788,000 lbs of high explosives. The rail yards were well hit.
P/O L. Brochu from 425 squadron was hit by flak, was not serious. P/O P. Hache was attacked by a twin engine enemy aircraft, there was no claim or damage.
14 June 1944 – St.Pol (3.50)
37 Lancasters from 408, 419, and 428 squadrons were joined by 155 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 squadrons on an attack of the rail yards at St. Pol and Cambrai. The crews were over the target at between 6,000 and 13,000 feet, releasing 1,518,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, there was some haze and cloud over the targets and bombing was scattered.
P/O L. Terroux from 425 squadron was attacked by a JU-88, there was no claim or damage.
15 June 1944 – Boulogne (3.30)
130 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 squadrons were joined by 32 Lancasters from 408, 419, and 428 squadrons on an attack of the dock and harbour area of Boulogne. Crews were over the target at between 9,000 and 17,000 feet, releasing 1,623,000 lbs of high explosives.
S/Ldr. J. Lecomte of 425 squadron was hit by flak, was not serious. F/Sgt. J. Landry was hit by flak, stbd outer u/s and holes in the fuel tanks. They landed safely at base on 3 engines. F/Sgt. J. Irvine had the stbd outer go u/s on return. They landed safely at base on 3 engines.
F/O E. Kirk, RCAF (Evd), and crew failed to return from this operation.
+Sgt. C. Adams, RAF
F/O H. Facey, RCAF–POW
F/O D. Stubbs, RCAF–POW
F/O F. Hagen, RCAF–Evd
+P/O D. McEvoy, RCAF
F/Sgt. J. Furneaux, RCAF–Evd
P/O O. Collins, RCAF–Evd
2 of the crew were killed, 2 were POWs and 4 evaded capture.
16 June 1944 – Sautrecourt (3.55)
While part of the group went to Sterkrade, 101 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 427, 429, and 433 squadrons were ordered to attack a V-1 site in the Pas de Calais area called Sautrecourt. The crews were over the target between 14,000 and 17,000 feet, releasing 760,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, the target was well hit.
F/O W. Dennett from 425 squadron was attacked by 2 ME-110s. There was no claim or damage. + F/O H. Romuld was returning from this operation when he was fired upon by another Halifax. Gun fire came through the windscreen fatally wounding the pilot. The bomb aimer took over the controls and safely landed at Woodbridge.
21 June 1944 – St. Martin (4.10)
66 Halifaxes from 420, 425, 426, and 432 squadrons were joined by 39 Lancasters from 408, 419 and 428 squadron on an attack on a V-1 site at St.Martin L’Hortier. The crews were over the target at between 15,000 and 17,000 feet, releasing 830,000 lbs of high explosives. The target was cloud covered at the time of the attack.
23 June 1944 – Bientques (4.20)
65 Halifaxes from 420, 425, 426, and 432 squadrons were joined by 39 Lancasters from 408, 419, and 428 squadrons on an attack of a V-1 site at Bientques. The crews were over the target at between 10,000 and 14,000 feet, releasing 865,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, the target was well hit.
W/O2 J. Ryan from 425 squadron returned early as they were unable to raise the undercarriage. F/O H. Gregson had the port inner go u/s outbound. Crew bombed and returned safely to base on 3 engines.
27 June 1944 – Forêt d’Eary (4.05)
41 Lancasters from 408, 419, and 428 squadrons were joined by 169 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 squadrons on attack of 2 V-1 sites at Wizernes and Foret D’Eary in the Pas de Calais area. The crews were over the targets at between 12,000 and 14,000 feet, releasing 1,513,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, all attacks were successful.
Sgt M. Lavoie from 425 squadron, flying Halifax III MZ-683 coded KW-A, was returning from Forêt D’Eary on 3 engines. On landing, the Halifax swung and crashed into LW-680 KW-U, which was loaded with bombs and MZ-618 KW-J, which had just returned from Foret D’Eawy. All aircraft caught fire. Aircrew and ground crew worked hard at extricating trapped crewmembers amid fires and huge explosions. All crewmembers were rescued with injuries, some serious. Air Commodore A. Ross was seriously injured in these explosions helping with the rescue of the trapped airmen, his arm was severed below the elbow. Lac MacKenzie and Lac Wolfe were also injured during this rescue. A/C A. Ross received the George Cross, F/Sgt J. St. Germain and Cpl M. Marguet the George Medal, Lac M. MacKenzie and Lac R. Wolfe a BEM, for acts of bravery during this trying time.
1 July 1944 – Biennais (4.10)
11 Halifaxes from 420, 425, 426, 431, 432, and 434 were ordered on an operation to the V-1 launching site at Biennais. The crews were over the target at between 12,000 and 14,000 feet, releasing 797,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, the target was cloud covered.
3 July 1944 – Biennais (3.55)
99 Halifaxes from 420, 425, 426, 431, 432, and 434 squadrons were ordered on an attack of a V-1 site at Biennais. The crews were over the target at between 12,000 and 13,500 feet, releasing 786,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, the sky was clear and this site was accurately bombed.
Note the date has to be validated because 4 July is mentioned in the Website Bomber Group 6.
6 July 1944 – Coquereaux (4.25)
12 Lancasters from 408 squadron were joined by 48 Halifaxes from 420, 425, 426, and 432 squadron on an attack of the V-1 site at Coquereaux. The crews were over the target at between 12,000 and 13,000 feet, releasing 389,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, the target was clear and accurate bombing took place.
15 July 1944 – Nucourt (4.10)
27 Lancaster from 408 and 419 squadrons were joined by 64 Halifaxes from 420, 425, 426, and 432 squadron on an attack of the Nucourt V-1 storage site and the launching site at Bois des Jardines. The crews were over the targets at between 6,000 and 12,000 feet, releasing 1,023,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, both targets were accurately bombed.
F/O N. Streight and crew from 425 Squadron flying Halifax III LW-381 coded KW-B was attacked by a single engine enemy aircraft, which fired 2 rockets, there was no claim or damage.
17 July 1944 – Caen A.1 (4.05)
42 Lancasters from 408, 419, and 428 were joined by 155 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 squadrons on a number of attacks in the Caen and Mondeville areas. These attacks were made at dawn in direct support of the army. All the crews were over the targets from between 7,000 to 9,000 feet, unloading 1,750,000 lbs of ordinance. The German troops on the ground were hit hard and this was one of the best bombing raids that supported the army. A total of 6,800 tons of ordinance was dropped.
Note the date has to be validated because 18 July is mentioned in the Website Bomber Group 6.
18 July 1944 – Wesseling (5.20)
42 Lancasters from 408, 419, and 428 squadrons were joined by 111 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 432, and 433 squadrons in an attack on the oil plant Wesseling. The crews were over the target at between 11,000 and 14,000 feet, releasing 1,286,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, the weather was clear and severe damage was done to this facility.
P/O V. Lacaille from 425 squadron returned early as the stbd outer caught fire after takeoff. They returned safely to base on 3 engines. + F/O A. Taillon RCAF and crew, flying Halifax III LW-672 coded KW-N, failed to return from this operation.
+F/Sgt. W. Cameron RCAF
+Sgt. P. Kinnear RAF
+P/O J. Dufour RCAF
Sgt. J. Arsenault RCAF–POW
+P/O W. Watson RCAF
+P/O J. Giroux RCAF
+P/O N. Boucher RCAF
7 crew members were killed and one was a POW.
3 August 1944 – Forêt de Nieppe (4.15)
210 Halifaxes from 408, 425, 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 squadrons were joined by 51 Lancasters from 408, 419 and 428 squadrons on an attack of two V-1 storage sites at Forêt de Nieppe and Bois de Cassan. The crews were over these targets at between 14,000 and 16,000 feet, releasing 2,266,000 lbs. of high explosives. According to reports, the weather was clear and severe damage was caused.
4 August 1944 – Bois de Cassan (4.55)
159 Halifaxes from 408, 415, 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 were joined by 42 Lancasters from 408, 419 and 428 squadrons on an attack on the V-1 storage site at Bois De Cassan. The crews were over the target at between 13,000 and 16,000 feet, releasing 1,856,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, the target was damaged.
5 August 1944 – St. Leu d’Esserent (5.05)
172 Halifaxes from 408, 415, 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 squadrons were joined by 52 Lancasters from 408, 419 and 428 squadrons on an attack of a V-1 storage site at St. Leu D’Esserent. The crews were over the target at between 14,000 and 17,000 feet, releasing 2,553,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, bombing was good and damage was caused.
S/Ldr G. Philbin RCAF–Evd and crew from 425 squadron, flying Halifax III LL-594 coded KW-U, failed to return from this operation.
+F/Sgt W. Gracie RCAF
+P/O R. Reed RCAF
+P/O T. Lee RCAF
+F/O L. Stamp RAF
Sgt C. Hilliard RCAF–POW
+F/O G. Beresford RAF
+W/O B. Clark RAF
1 crew member evaded, 1 was a POW and 6 were killed after they were shot down by flak.
7 August 1944 – La Hogue (4.15)
182 Halifaxes from 408, 415, 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 squadrons were joined by 40 Lancasters from 408, 419, and 428 squadrons on an attack of German positions around Caen. The crews were over the target at between 8,000 and 10,000 feet, releasing 1,457,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, roads and the strong points were well cratered.
F/O H. Gregson from 425 squadron returned early as the stbd inner was u/s. They landed safely at base on 3 engines. All other crews did not bomb on the master bomber’s orders. Note: The target has to be validated because Caen is mentioned in the Website Bomber Group 6.
9 August 1944 – Forêt de Nieppe (3.55)
104 Halifaxes from 408, 415, 420, 425, 426, and 432 squadrons were joined by 9 Lancasters from 408 squadron, on an attack of a V-1 launching and storage site at Foret de Nieppe in the Pas de Calais area. The crews were over the targets at between 11,000 and 17,000 feet, releasing 1,092,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, the weather was good and all sites were accurately bombed.
W/O2 J. Ryan from 425 Squadron returned early, one engine was u/s after take off. They proceeded on to the target and the second engine threw the propeller. They landed safely at Manston on 2 engines. F/O N. Streight and crew, flying Halifax III LW-381 coded KW-B, was attacked by an ME-109, there was no claim or damage.
14 August 1944 – Falaise (3.55)
165 Halifaxes from 408, 415, 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 432, 433, and 434 Squadrons were joined by 59 Lancasters from 408, 419, 428, and 431 Squadrons on an attack of German troop positions at Falaise, Aisy, and Bons Tassilly. The crews were over the targets between 6,000 and 9,000 feet, releasing 2,131,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports the attack was going well and then some bombing started to fall back into Canadian army 3rd Division positions. This problem was made worse when ground troops started firing yellow flares, which happened to be the same colours as the Target Indicators, attracting more loads of explosives. This carried on for more than an hour and little could be done but for the troops to head for their slit trenches and wait the attack out. 13 army personnel were killed and many injured along with some equipment being destroyed.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Falaise_pocket
Excerpt
The Falaise pocket or battle of the Falaise pocket (German: Kessel von Falaise; 12–21 August 1944) was the decisive engagement of the Battle of Normandy in the Second World War. A pocket was formed around Falaise, Calvados, in which the German Army Group B, with the 7th Army and the Fifth Panzer Army (formerly Panzergruppe West) were encircled by the Western Allies. It is also referred to as the battle of the Falaise gap (after the corridor which the Germans sought to maintain to allow their escape).[nb 2] The battle resulted in the destruction of most of Army Group B west of the Seine, which opened the way to Paris and the Franco-German border for the Allied armies on the Western Front.
F/O J. Dargis from 425 Squadron was hit by flak, there were holes in the stbd tail plane.
16 August 1944 – Kiel (5.30)
144 Halifaxes from 408, 415, 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, and 434 squadrons were ordered to attack the port city of Kiel. The crews were over the target at between 16,000 and 20,000 feet, releasing 310,000 lbs of high explosives and 545,000 lbs of incendiaries. According to reports the dock area and ship-building firms were damaged.
6 October 1944 – Dortmund (5.55)
248 Halifaxes from 408, 415, 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 squadrons were joined by 45 Lancasters from 419 and 428 squadrons on an attack at Dortmund. This was the greatest effort that the 6 group would send out during the war. The crews were over the target between 17,000 and 20,500 feet releasing 1,510,000 lbs of high explosives and 383,000 lbs of incendiaries. According to reports, bombing was accurate and the transportation and industrial sections were well hit.
P/O A. Martel from 425 Squadron returned early due to the stbd inner going u/s. Landed at base on 3 engines. F/O G. Lareau returned early as they were unable to raise the undercarriage. F/O T. MacKinnon and crewn flying Halifax III LW-381 coded KW-B were attacked by an ME-110, some strikes were seen and it was claimed damaged.
Two sorties flown with 420 Squadron
4 December 1944 – Karlsruhe (7.10)
144 Halifaxes from 408, 415, 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 432, and 433 squadrons were joined by 46 Lancasters from 419, 428 and 431 squadrons on an attack at Karlsruhe. The crews were over the target at between 17,000 and 19,000 feet, releasing 854,000 lbs of high explosives and 678,000 lbs of incendiaries. According to reports, bombing was accurate with severe damage being caused. Among the factories destroyed was the important Durlacher Machine-tool building.
6 January 1945 – Hanau (7.05)
132 Halifaxes from 408, 415, 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 432, and 433 squadrons were joined by 57 Lancasters from 419, 428, 431, and 434 squadrons on an attack at Hanau. The crews were over the target at between 18,000 to 20,000 feet, releasing 522,000 lbs of high explosives and 954,000 lbs of incendiaries. This attack was aimed at the important rail junction. This area was seriously damaged as well as a large portion on the built up area.
F/O Stuart Henry Jacobs, DFC, J/27416, was the navigator in W.G. Phelan’s crew. His residence was 613 Mary St., Oshawa, Ont. (1944) (1946). He flew 29 missions with the Phelan crew of 425 Alouette Squadron between May 9, 1944 and October 6, 1944. On 24th November 1944, S/L W.G. Phelan, J/24789, was promoted to 420 Squadron Commander. His crew followed him to 420 Squadron including navigator Jacobs.
On 24 February 1945, Jacobs returned to 425 Alouette. This is Violette’s photo part of Réal St-Amour’s collection of 425 Alouette Squadron official RCAF photos.
F/O Stuart Henry Jacobs, DFC, flew two operations with the Violette crew on March 7/8 and 8/9 1945. On 21 May 1945, he was transferred to RCAF « R » Depot.
Information taken from RCAF Association website
Source:
https://www.rcafassociation.ca
JACOBS, F/O Stuart Henry (J27416)
– Distinguished Flying Cross
– No.425 Squadron
– Award effective 5 April 1945 as per London Gazette dated 13 April 1945 and AFRO 824/45 dated 18 May 1945.
Born 26 January 1922. Home in Oshawa; enlisted Toronto 9 July 1942 and posted to No.1 Manning Depot. To No.14 SFTS, 28 August 1942. To No.1 ITS, 24 October 1942; graduated and promoted LAC, 30 December 1942; to No.4 AOS, 6 February 1943; graduated and commissioned on 25 June 1943.
To “Y” Depot, 9 July 1943; to United Kingdom, 15 July 1943.
Promoted Flying Officer, 28 December 1943.
Repatriated 1 June 1945.
To No.1 Air Command, 12 June 1945.
To No.1 WS, 14 July 1945.
To No.2 Release Centre, 3 September 1945.
Released 3 September 1945.
Died in Toronto, 10 October 2004.
RCAF photo PL-32814 (ex UK-14850 dated 18 September 1944) shows a group of navigators of No.425 Squadron – F/L John Houser (Hamilton), F/O Stuart Jacobs (Oshawa), Flight Sergeant Cecil Davies (Toronto, described as “the artist of their ‘gen’ room), F/L Marcel Regimbald (Montreal) and F/O K. Calverley (Poplar Point, Manitoba).
No citation other than « 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.1730 (PAC RG.24 Vol.20607) has recommendation dated 17 November 1944 when he had completed 29 sorties (127 hours 55 minutes):
A navigator of outstanding ability who has completed twenty-nine operational sorties against some of the enemy’s most heavily defended targets including Wesseling, Kiel and Dortmund.
When proceeding to attack Coquereaux, France, on 6th July 1944, the starboard outer engine of the aircraft in which he was flying had to be feathered directly after setting course. In spite of all navigational aids being unserviceable, by exceptional skill, Flying Officer Jacobs directed the pilot by the most direct route and succeeded in reaching the objective on time, thereby completing his task.
A member of a gallant crew, Flying Officer Jacobs has consistently set a high standard by his efficiency, confidence and devotion to duty.
His display of commendable courage and fine fighting spirit in circumstances of great difficulty, together with his eagerness to help junior navigators renders him worthy of my recommendation for the Non-Immediate award of the « Distinguished Flying Cross ».
The sortie list was as follows: some details added from
http://www.6bombergroup.ca/
9 May 1944 – Calais (3.10)
20 Lancasters from 408 and 419 Squadrons were joined by 88 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 433, and 434 Squadrons in an attack of 2 coastal gun batteries at Calais and St. Valery en Caux. The crews were over the targets at between 5,000 and 11,000 feet, releasing 928,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, they were accurately bombed.
Note: information taken from the Operations Record Book
Phelan’s crew was flying Halifax LW394 KW-H on that sortie.
Take-off 21.50
Landing 01.00
Bomb load: 1 x 1000, 14 x 500 dropped from 12,000 ft. at 2330 hrs in concentration of red T.I’s. Bombs bursts well concentrated on markers. PFF markers first seen to go down 2325 hrs. PFF markers good. Route good. Bombs concentrated on T.I. markers. Appeared to be a good attack. Weather: hazy.
10 May 1944 – Ghent (4.15)
24 Lancasters from 408 and 419 squadrons were joined by 90 Halifaxes from 420, 425, 426, 428, 429, and 433 squadrons on an attack of the rail yard at Ghent. The crews were over the target at between 9,000 and 11,000 feet, releasing 957,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, this attack was successful.
19 May 1944 – Mouliar Merville-Franceville (3.30)
15 Lancasters from 408 Squadron were joined by 42 Halifaxes from 420, 425, and 426 Squadrons on an attack of the coastal guns at Merville-Franceville. The crews were over the target at between 7,000 and 8,500 feet, releasing 318,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports there was haze over the target and bombing was scattered.
F/O W. Phelan from 425 Squadron landed at Westcott on return.
22 May 1944 – Le Mans (3.20)
112 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 432, and 433 Squadrons were ordered on an attack of the rail yards at Le Mans. The crews were over the target at between 7,000 and 9,000 feet, releasing 826,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, bombing was accurate and severe damage was caused.
F/O W. Phelan from 425 Squadron had the stbd inner u/s on return. They landed safely at base on 3 engines. F/Sgt J. Lecaille was involved in a collision over the target. The tail wheel was torn off. On landing the wing hit the ground and they ground looped. There were no injuries to the crew.
+ P/O E. Laporte RCAF and crew, flying Halifax III LK-810 coded KW-Y, failed to return from this operation.
+ Sgt N. Ward RAF
+ F/O J. Tetrault RCAF
+ F/Sgt J. Mallette RCAF
+ W/O1 J. Laing RCAF
+ Sgt J. Levasseur RCAF
Sgt R. McGowan RCAF–POW
6 crew were killed and 1 POW.
27 May 1944 – Bourg Léopold (4.20)
32 Lancasters from 408 and 419 Squadrons were joined by 117 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, and 432 Squadrons in an attack on the military camp at Bourg Leopold. The crews were over the target at between 8,000 and 12,000 feet, releasing 1,191,000 lbs of high explosives.
According to reports, bombing was accurate.
F/O E. Kirk from 425 Squadron was attacked by an enemy aircraft, it was claimed destroyed. P/O L. Brochu landed at Chedburgh on return. P/O L. Terroux landed at Desborough on return. W/O2 J. Jean, F/Sgt J. Gaudry, W/Cdr L. Lecomte, P/O C. Jones, and P/O P. Hache landed at Barford St. John on return. W/O2 V. Vincent tried to land at Shipdham due to a fuel shortage. They overshot 4 times in poor visibility and crash-landed. The crew was not injured.
9 June 1944 – Le Mans (5.50)
76 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 426, 431, 432, and 434 squadrons were joined by 24 Lancasters from 408 and 419 squadrons in attacking the airfield at Le Mans. The crews were over the target from between 1,000 and 7,000 feet releasing 838,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports this attack was successful and the airfield was well hit.
Sgt. T. Barton of 425 squadron was hit by flak and attacked by a JU-88. There was no damage or claim on the fighter and flak damage wasn’t serious.
10 June 1944 – Versailles (5.25)
100 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 squadrons were joined by 10 Lancasters from 419 squadron on an attack of the rail yards at Versailles. The crews were over the target from between 6,000 and 8,000 feet releasing 788,000 lbs of high explosives. The rail yards were well hit.
P/O L. Brochu from 425 squadron was hit by flak, was not serious. P/O P. Hache was attacked by a twin engine enemy aircraft, there was no claim or damage.
14 June 1944 – St.Pol (3.50)
37 Lancasters from 408, 419, and 428 squadrons were joined by 155 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 squadrons on an attack of the rail yards at St. Pol and Cambrai. The crews were over the target at between 6,000 and 13,000 feet, releasing 1,518,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, there was some haze and cloud over the targets and bombing was scattered.
P/O L. Terroux from 425 squadron was attacked by a JU-88, there was no claim or damage.
15 June 1944 – Boulogne (3.30)
130 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 squadrons were joined by 32 Lancasters from 408, 419, and 428 squadrons on an attack of the dock and harbour area of Boulogne. Crews were over the target at between 9,000 and 17,000 feet, releasing 1,623,000 lbs of high explosives.
S/Ldr. J. Lecomte of 425 squadron was hit by flak, was not serious. F/Sgt. J. Landry was hit by flak, stbd outer u/s and holes in the fuel tanks. They landed safely at base on 3 engines. F/Sgt. J. Irvine had the stbd outer go u/s on return. They landed safely at base on 3 engines. F/O E. Kirk, RCAF (Evd), and crew failed to return from this operation.
+Sgt. C. Adams, RAF
F/O H. Facey, RCAF–POW
F/O D. Stubbs, RCAF–POW
F/O F. Hagen, RCAF–Evd
+P/O D. McEvoy, RCAF
F/Sgt. J. Furneaux, RCAF–Evd
P/O O. Collins, RCAF–Evd
2 of the crew were killed, 2 were POWs and 4 evaded capture.
16 June 1944 – Sautrecourt (3.55)
While part of the group went to Sterkrade, 101 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 427, 429, and 433 squadrons were ordered to attack a V-1 site in the Pas de Calais area called Sautrecourt. The crews were over the target between 14,000 and 17,000 feet, releasing 760,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, the target was well hit.
F/O W. Dennett from 425 squadron was attacked by 2 ME-110s. There was no claim or damage. + F/O H. Romuld was returning from this operation when he was fired upon by another Halifax. Gun fire came through the windscreen fatally wounding the pilot. The bomb aimer took over the controls and safely landed at Woodbridge.
21 June 1944 – St. Martin (4.10)
66 Halifaxes from 420, 425, 426, and 432 squadrons were joined by 39 Lancasters from 408, 419 and 428 squadron on an attack on a V-1 site at St.Martin L’Hortier. The crews were over the target at between 15,000 and 17,000 feet, releasing 830,000 lbs of high explosives. The target was cloud covered at the time of the attack.
23 June 1944 – Bientques (4.20)
65 Halifaxes from 420, 425, 426, and 432 squadrons were joined by 39 Lancasters from 408, 419, and 428 squadrons on an attack of a V-1 site at Bientques. The crews were over the target at between 10,000 and 14,000 feet, releasing 865,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, the target was well hit.
W/O2 J. Ryan from 425 squadron returned early as they were unable to raise the undercarriage. F/O H. Gregson had the port inner go u/s outbound. Crew bombed and returned safely to base on 3 engines.
27 June 1944 – Forêt d’Eary (4.05)
41 Lancasters from 408, 419, and 428 squadrons were joined by 169 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 squadrons on attack of 2 V-1 sites at Wizernes and Foret D’Eary in the Pas de Calais area. The crews were over the targets at between 12,000 and 14,000 feet, releasing 1,513,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, all attacks were successful.
Sgt M. Lavoie from 425 squadron, flying Halifax III MZ-683 coded KW-A, was returning from Forêt D’Eary on 3 engines. On landing, the Halifax swung and crashed into LW-680 KW-U, which was loaded with bombs and MZ-618 KW-J, which had just returned from Foret D’Eawy. All aircraft caught fire. Aircrew and ground crew worked hard at extricating trapped crewmembers amid fires and huge explosions. All crewmembers were rescued with injuries, some serious. Air Commodore A. Ross was seriously injured in these explosions helping with the rescue of the trapped airmen, his arm was severed below the elbow. Lac MacKenzie and Lac Wolfe were also injured during this rescue. A/C A. Ross received the George Cross, F/Sgt J. St. Germain and Cpl M. Marguet the George Medal, Lac M. MacKenzie and Lac R. Wolfe a BEM, for acts of bravery during this trying time.
1 July 1944 – Biennais (4.10)
11 Halifaxes from 420, 425, 426, 431, 432, and 434 were ordered on an operation to the V-1 launching site at Biennais. The crews were over the target at between 12,000 and 14,000 feet, releasing 797,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, the target was cloud covered.
3 July 1944 – Biennais (3.55)
99 Halifaxes from 420, 425, 426, 431, 432, and 434 squadrons were ordered on an attack of a V-1 site at Biennais. The crews were over the target at between 12,000 and 13,500 feet, releasing 786,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, the sky was clear and this site was accurately bombed.
Note the date has to be validated because 4 July is mentioned in the Website Bomber Group 6.
6 July 1944 – Coquereaux (4.25)
12 Lancasters from 408 squadron were joined by 48 Halifaxes from 420, 425, 426, and 432 squadron on an attack of the V-1 site at Coquereaux. The crews were over the target at between 12,000 and 13,000 feet, releasing 389,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, the target was clear and accurate bombing took place.
15 July 1944 – Nucourt (4.10)
27 Lancaster from 408 and 419 squadrons were joined by 64 Halifaxes from 420, 425, 426, and 432 squadron on an attack of the Nucourt V-1 storage site and the launching site at Bois des Jardines. The crews were over the targets at between 6,000 and 12,000 feet, releasing 1,023,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, both targets were accurately bombed.
F/O N. Streight and crew from 425 Squadron flying Halifax III LW-381 coded KW-B was attacked by a single engine enemy aircraft, which fired 2 rockets, there was no claim or damage.
17 July 1944 – Caen A.1 (4.05)
42 Lancasters from 408, 419, and 428 were joined by 155 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 squadrons on a number of attacks in the Caen and Mondeville areas. These attacks were made at dawn in direct support of the army. All the crews were over the targets from between 7,000 to 9,000 feet, unloading 1,750,000 lbs of ordinance. The German troops on the ground were hit hard and this was one of the best bombing raids that supported the army. A total of 6,800 tons of ordinance was dropped.
Note the date has to be validated because 18 July is mentioned in the Website Bomber Group 6.
18 July 1944 – Wesseling (5.20)
42 Lancasters from 408, 419, and 428 squadrons were joined by 111 Halifaxes from 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 432, and 433 squadrons in an attack on the oil plant Wesseling. The crews were over the target at between 11,000 and 14,000 feet, releasing 1,286,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, the weather was clear and severe damage was done to this facility.
P/O V. Lacaille from 425 squadron returned early as the stbd outer caught fire after takeoff. They returned safely to base on 3 engines.
+ F/O A. Taillon RCAF and crew, flying Halifax III LW-672 coded KW-N, failed to return from this operation.
+F/Sgt. W. Cameron RCAF
+Sgt. P. Kinnear RAF
+P/O J. Dufour RCAF
Sgt. J. Arsenault RCAF–POW
+P/O W. Watson RCAF
+P/O J. Giroux RCAF
+P/O N. Boucher RCAF
7 crew members were killed and one was a POW.
3 August 1944 – Forêt de Nieppe (4.15)
210 Halifaxes from 408, 425, 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 squadrons were joined by 51 Lancasters from 408, 419 and 428 squadrons on an attack of two V-1 storage sites at Forêt de Nieppe and Bois de Cassan. The crews were over these targets at between 14,000 and 16,000 feet, releasing 2,266,000 lbs. of high explosives. According to reports, the weather was clear and severe damage was caused.
4 August 1944 – Bois de Cassan (4.55)
159 Halifaxes from 408, 415, 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 were joined by 42 Lancasters from 408, 419 and 428 squadrons on an attack on the V-1 storage site at Bois De Cassan. The crews were over the target at between 13,000 and 16,000 feet, releasing 1,856,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, the target was damaged.
5 August 1944 – St. Leu d’Esserent (5.05)
172 Halifaxes from 408, 415, 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 squadrons were joined by 52 Lancasters from 408, 419 and 428 squadrons on an attack of a V-1 storage site at St. Leu D’Esserent. The crews were over the target at between 14,000 and 17,000 feet, releasing 2,553,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, bombing was good and damage was caused.
S/Ldr G. Philbin RCAF–Evd and crew from 425 squadron, flying Halifax III LL-594 coded KW-U, failed to return from this operation.
+F/Sgt W. Gracie RCAF
+P/O R. Reed RCAF
+P/O T. Lee RCAF
+F/O L. Stamp RAF
Sgt C. Hilliard RCAF–POW
+F/O G. Beresford RAF
+W/O B. Clark RAF
1 crew member evaded, 1 was a POW and 6 were killed after they were shot down by flak.
7 August 1944 – La Hogue (4.15)
182 Halifaxes from 408, 415, 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 squadrons were joined by 40 Lancasters from 408, 419, and 428 squadrons on an attack of German positions around Caen. The crews were over the target at between 8,000 and 10,000 feet, releasing 1,457,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, roads and the strong points were well cratered.
F/O H. Gregson from 425 squadron returned early as the stbd inner was u/s. They landed safely at base on 3 engines. All other crews did not bomb on the master bomber’s orders.
Note:
The target has to be validated because Caen is mentioned in the Website Bomber Group 6.
9 August 1944 – Forêt de Nieppe (3.55)
104 Halifaxes from 408, 415, 420, 425, 426, and 432 squadrons were joined by 9 Lancasters from 408 squadron, on an attack of a V-1 launching and storage site at Foret de Nieppe in the Pas de Calais area. The crews were over the targets at between 11,000 and 17,000 feet, releasing 1,092,000 lbs of high explosives. According to reports, the weather was good and all sites were accurately bombed.
W/O2 J. Ryan from 425 Squadron returned early, one engine was u/s after take off. They proceeded on to the target and the second engine threw the propeller. They landed safely at Manston on 2 engines. F/O N. Streight and crew, flying Halifax III LW-381 coded KW-B, was attacked by an ME-109, there was no claim or damage.
16 August 1944 – Kiel (5.30)
144 Halifaxes from 408, 415, 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, and 434 squadrons were ordered to attack the port city of Kiel. The crews were over the target at between 16,000 and 20,000 feet, releasing 310,000 lbs of high explosives and 545,000 lbs of incendiaries. According to reports the dock area and ship-building firms were damaged.
6 October 1944 – Dortmund (5.55)
248 Halifaxes from 408, 415, 420, 424, 425, 426, 427, 429, 431, 432, 433, and 434 squadrons were joined by 45 Lancasters from 419 and 428 squadrons on an attack at Dortmund. This was the greatest effort that the 6 group would send out during the war. The crews were over the target between 17,000 and 20,500 feet releasing 1,510,000 lbs of high explosives and 383,000 lbs of incendiaries. According to reports, bombing was accurate and the transportation and industrial sections were well hit.
P/O A. Martel from 425 Squadron returned early due to the stbd inner going u/s. Landed at base on 3 engines. F/O G. Lareau returned early as they were unable to raise the undercarriage. F/O T. MacKinnon and crewn flying Halifax III LW-381 coded KW-B were attacked by an ME-110, some strikes were seen and it was claimed damaged.
Wing Commander William Gerald Phelan DFC 