Date of birth:

February 18th, 1919

Date of death:

1995

Service number:

Aus.401908

Nationality:

Australian (1901-present, Federal Monarchy)

Before the war Coldham studied law at Melbourne University and was a member of the Melbourne University Rifles, He then enlistment with the Royal Australian Air Force in April 1941. Soon after he was attached to the Royal Air Force he untertook training in Rhodesia before proceeding to the UK and flew with 460 Squadron, including twice piloting the aircraft G for George, now held at the Australian war Memorial. He later served with 156 Squadron.
Coldham was discharged from service in January 1946.

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Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Pilot Officer

Unit:

No. 156 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

October 19th, 1943

Citation:
"Before joining his squadron, Pilot Officer Coldham achieved a fine record on operations, which has been further enhanced by the excellent work he has recently performed. He has displayed courage and determnitation in identifying his targets and in pressing home his attacks during many sorties. He has at all times shown a high order of skill and leadership."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Awarded on:

January 1944

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Acting Flight Lieutenant

Unit:

No. 156 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

February 11th, 1944

Citation:
"Flight Lieutenant Coldham has always proved himself to be a distinguished pilot and captain of aircraft. He has shown great courage and determination during his tour of duty, which he has extended voluntarily to coincide with that of his crew. He has been, at one time or another, detailed to attack the enemy's heavily defended objectives, and in spite of the intense opposition frequently encountered, he has never failed to press home his attacks effectively."

Second DFC awarded as a bar for on the ribbon of the first DFC.

• Photo 1:
• Photo: Australian War Memorial
  
• - Third Supplement to The London Gazette Issue 36215 published on the 15 October 1943
  - Fifth Supplement to The London Gazette Issue 36374 published on the 8 February 1944
  - 156 Squadron
  - Australian War Memorial