Whelan, James Roger
- Date of birth:
- April 29th, 1914 (Saskatoon/Saskatchewan, Canada)
- Date of death:
- March 8th, 1985
- Service number:
- 40330.
- Nationality:
- Canadian
Biography
Post-war decoration:
January 1st, 1968: CBE
Promotions:
November 28th, 1937: Acting Pilot Officer (probation)
November 6th, 1939 (Pilot Officer)
April 27th, 1940 (Flying Officer (war sub)
April 27th, 1941: Flight Lieutenant (war sub)
June 1st, 1942: Temporary Squadron Leader
March 1st, 1942: Acting Wing Commander
September 1st, 1942: Squadron Leader (war sub)
June 4th, 1946: Squadron Leader
July 1st, 1947: Wing Commander
July 1st, 1956: Group Captain
January 2nd, 1961-64: Acting Air Commodore
September 20th, 1965: Acting Air Commodore
January 1st, 1966: Air Commodore
April 26th, 1968: retirement
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Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)
- Period:
- Second World War (1939-1945)
- Rank:
- Pilot Officer
- Awarded on:
- July 23rd, 1940
"This officer was employed as a pilot in a squadron engaged in long distance reconnaissance flights and bombing operations over enemy territory from 15th April 1940 to 16th May 1940. On one occasion whilst on a bombing raid over enemy positions, his aircraft was attacked by six enemy fighters, one engine being put out of action, his observer killed, and he himself was badly burned. Although in considerable pain he succeeded in evading further persistent attacks by the enemy fighters. He made a forced-landing inside friendly territory. By his courage and skill, Pilot Officer Whelan saved both his aircraft and air gunner from destruction or capture by the enemy."
- Period:
- Second World War (1939-1945)
- Rank:
- Acting Wing Commander
- Unit:
- No. 680 Squadron, Royal Air Force
- Awarded on:
- October 1st, 1943
"Wing Commander Whelan has commanded his squadron since May, 1942 and has completed many long distance reconnaissance sorties over the sea and enemy territory. Recently he successfully completed a mission at the extreme range of his aircraft which thereby required precise flying and most accurate photography. At all times this officer's example of perseverance and efficiency has been an inspiration to his squadron.”
Second DFC awarded as a bar for on the ribbon of the first DFC.
- Period:
- Second World War (1939-1945)
- Rank:
- Acting Wing Commander
- Unit:
- No. 680 Squadron, Royal Air Force
- Awarded on:
- October 3rd, 1944
"This officer has commanded the squadron since June, 1942. During the period he has completed a very large number of photographic reconnaissances and has displayed -the highest qualities of skill, courage and leadership. By his untiring zeal, initiative and excellent organising ability he has contributed in a large way to the successes of the squadron which has undertaken many notable missions, the results of which were of immense value.”
Sources
- - The London Gazette Issue 34903 published on the 23 July 1940
- Third Supplement to The London Gazette Issue 36192 published on the 28 September 1943
- Fourth Supplement to The London Gazette Issue 36728 published on the 29 September 1944
- Air Force Association of Canada
- Air of Authority
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