James Blackburn (RAF officer)

[3] On 12 September 1942, Blackburn was travelling aboard the RMS Laconia when it was torpedoed 130 miles north-northeast of Ascension Island, by the German submarine U-156.In December 1944, Blackburn was awarded a Bar to his DSO,[6] working for Force 136, in recognition of his exemplary leadership during bombing and mine-laying missions.Blackburn was also awarded the American Distinguished Flying Cross by the United States Air Force, in recognition of the pioneering work that No.On another occasion, in similar circumstances, at Martuba, Squadron Leader Blackburn bombed the landing ground, starting three fires.His sorties have involved very long flights over difficult and mountainous country, where he has displayed skill, courage and endurance of a high order.His genius for leadership, great skill and fine fighting spirit have contributed in good measure to the high standard of efficiency of the squadron he commands
Acton, LondonRoyal Air ForceWing CommanderService numberNo. 196 SquadronNo. 570 SquadronNo. 159 SquadronNo. 148 SquadronNo. 104 SquadronSecond World WarDistinguished Service OrderDistinguished Flying CrossMentioned in DespatchesWellington College, BerkshireThe Queen's College, OxfordOxford University Air SquadronRoyal Air Force ReserveBlenheimNo. 57 SquadronNo. 70 Squadronflight lieutenantsquadron leaderRMS LaconiaAscension IslandLaconia incidentprisoner of warMoroccoForce 136American Distinguished Flying CrossUnited States Air ForceConsolidated LiberatorCalcuttaBritish Newspaper ArchiveLondon GazetteThe London Gazette