Deering, George Andrew

Operation Chastise (Dambusters Raid)

Date of birth:: July 23rd, 1919 (Kirkintilloch, Scotland)
Date of death:: September 16th, 1943
Buried on:: Commonwealth War Cemetery Reichswald Forest
Plot: 16. Row: D. Grave: 12.
Service number:: J/17245
Nationality:: Canadian

Biography

George Andrew Deering, born in Kirkintilloch, Scotland, on July 23, 1919, was the only son among four children. His family moved to Canada in his early years, where his mother soon passed away.

In Toronto, Deering attended Essex public school and studied aircraft design via correspondence while working as a shoemaker. He joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in July 1940, aiming to be a pilot but qualified instead as a wireless operator/air gunner, arriving in England in April 1941.

Serving a year with 103 Squadron at RAF Elsham Wolds, he completed a full tour before moving to an Operational Training Unit. Commissioned in February 1943, this status was only recognized by 617 Squadron after the Dams Raid.

Deering earned a Distinguished Flying Cross for his role in the raid, finally receiving official acknowledgment as an officer.

Deering was killed later that year, when his plane was shot down during the attack on the Dortmund Ems canal operation.

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Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Pilot Officer
Unit:: No. 617 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:: May 28th, 1943
Awarded for:: Operation Chastise

"On the night of 16th May, 1943, a force of Lancaster bombers was detailed to attack the Mohne, Eder and Sorpe dams in Germany. The operation was one of great difficulty and hazard, demanding a high degree of skill and courage and close co-operation between the crews of the aircraft engaged. Nevertheless, a telling blow was struck at the enemy by the successful breaching of the Mohne and Eder dams. This outstanding success reflects the greatest credit on the efforts of the following personnel who participated in the operation in various capacities as members of aircraft crew."