TracesOfWar needs your help! Every euro, pound or dollar you contribute greatly supports the continuation of this website. Go to stiwot.nl and donate!

Simister, Norman William

    Date of death:
    May 8th, 1944
    Buried on:
    Commonwealth War Graves Le Mans
    Plot: 38. Row: C. Grave: 5.
    Service number:
    976768 (NCO)/146612 (Officer)
    Nationality:
    British (1801-present, Kingdom)

    Biography

    Norman Simister, an Air Gunner, was killed in action with 138 Sqn during Operation Citronell 1, an SOE Operation, when his Halifax was shot down on the return flight by a German night fighter and crashed near St-Denis-de-Orques (Sarthe) killing all the crew on 8th May 1944
    According to some reference wesites he lies burried in grave Plot 21. Row C. Grave 5 which is contradictory to the website of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

    Promotions::
    April 26th, 1943: Pilot Officer (probation/emergency)
    October 26th, 1943: Flying Officer (probation/war sub)

    Do you have more information about this person? Inform us!

    Period:
    Second World War (1939-1945)
    Rank:
    Sergeant
    Unit:
    No. 207 Squadron, Royal Air Force
    Awarded on:
    March 12th, 1943
    Citation:
    “During his tour of operational flying, this NCO displayed exceptional keenness and devotion to duty. He has proved himself to be a very capable Air Gunner and, as a result of his alertness, has been instrumental in preventing his aircraft from being surprised by enemy night fighters. On all occasions, no matter how dangerous or difficult the mission has been, he has displayed great coolness and courage. These qualities, together with his cheerfulness, have won for him the complete confidence and admiration of his crew”
    Distinguished Flying Medal (DFM)

    Sources

    • - Third Supplement to The London Gazette Issue 35936 published on the 9 March 1943
      - Fourth Supplement to The London Gazette Issue 36100 published on the 16 July 1943
      - Second Supplement to The London Gazette Issue 36226 published on the 26 October 1943
      - Warwick & Warwick
      - Commonwealth War Graves Commission
      - Roll of Honour

    Photo