Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Pilot Officer

Unit:

No. 419 (Moose) Squadron, Royal Canadian Air Force

Awarded on:

June 8th, 1944

"On the night of 6th March, 1943, Pilot Officer Turner was the flight engineer of an aircraft detailed to bomb Essen. After bombing the target the aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire and Pilot Officer Turner sustained a severe cut in his right eye. Later, while crossing the Zuider Zee, the bomber was attacked by fighters and set on fire. The captain ordered the crew to escape by parachute. Pilot Officer Turner became unconscious during his descent. On regaining consciousness after landing he disposed of his parachute and other equipment and, with the aid of a pocket compass, he commenced to walk southwards towards Amsterdam. Here he hid in doorways when necessary and, after daybreak, left the city, remaining in a small wood near Diemerburg for the rest of the day. He was subsequently able to evade a number of German patrols and reached Utrecht on 8th March. He avoided a German camp but was later accosted by a German guard whom he managed to deceive by making guttural noises when challenged. Pilot Officer Turner then hid in a hay stack and later continued his journey, reaching Tricht on 9th March. He had obtained food by stealth and managed to board a train on the 10th March which he left between Wicjk and Aachen. He proceeded southwards on foot and ultimately some helpers gave him food and a civilian suit. He found his way into Belgium and reached Liege on 12th March. Here he obtained help from a waiter in a restaurant who took him to his house. Pilot Officer Turner's subsequent journey to this country was arranged for him. NOTE: Air 2/5025 also has recommendation submitted 27 September 1943 by his CO, noting he had flown ten sorties (56 hours 50 minutes). Recommended for DCM; G/C A.D. Ross supports this (30 September 1943); A/V/M G.E. Brookes notes (14 October 1943) that Turner has been commissioned and suggests a Military Cross. Sergeant Turner has completed ten operational sorties against the enemy and enemy occupied territory as Flight Engineer. At all times he has shown himself to be efficient, keen and determined in the face of grave dangers. On the night of 6th March 1943, Sergeant Turner's aircraft failed to return. He returned himself, however, after some 15 weeks. The details of his escape from enemy territory as outlines in MI.9 MOST SECRET REPORT M.I.9/S/P.G.-1273, show outstanding fortitude on his part. His determination to avoid capture and to return to friendly territory deserves nothing but the highest praise. FURTHER NOTE: Air 2/5025 includes long MI.9 report on his evasion up to linking with Resistance."

Recommended for MC and BEM.