Tacon, Ernest William "Bill"

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Tacon, Ernest William "Bill"

Date of birth:: December 6th, 1917
Date of death:: September 9th, 2003
Service number:: 401787 / NZ36196
Nationality:: New Zealander

Biography

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Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Pilot Officer
Unit:: No. 233 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:: May 31st, 1940

Air Force Cross (AFC)

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Flight Lieutenant
Awarded on:: June 11th, 1942

Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Squadron Leader
Unit:: No. 236 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:: September 19th, 1944

"In July, 1944, this officer took part in an attack on an enemy convoy during which 4 ships were set on fire. By his gallant and skilful leadership, Squadron Leader Tacon contributed in a large way to the success achieved. His resolute example in the face of heavy opposing fire proved greatly inspiring."

Awarded as bar on the ribbon of the first medal.

Distinguished Service Order (DSO)

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Squadron Leader
Unit:: No. 236 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:: October 1st, 1944

"In August, 1944, Wing Commander Tacon led a force of aircraft in an attack on the harbour of Le Verdon. A very heavy barrage of anti-aircraft fire from the enemy ships and ground defences was encountered and after the attack four of our aircraft were severely damaged.-Wing Commander Taoon directed one aircraft to alight on the sea near a naval force in the vicinity and then proceeded to an advanced base in France where he supervised the landing of the remaining three aircraft. He displayed outstanding qualities of resourceful leadership and great devotion to duty. Two destroyers were set on fire and seriously damaged during this action."