Tracing back a WWII RAF pilot

[Jimbo27]

OK,

Lots on him.

LG entry for DFM is here:

http://www.london-gazette.co.uk/issues/36686/supplements/4123

As I said above, the recommendation often gives more than the citation.
This is a good example.

Citation says:
1388657 Flight Sergeant Basilios VASSILIADES,R.A.F.V.R., 19 Sqn.

This airman has participated in many sorties over Northern France and has attacked many military targets with good results. He-is a most capable section leader whose example of gallantry and determination has won much praise. Flight Sergeant Vassiliades has destroyed 4 enemy aircraft.

Recommendation in Tavender says:

This NCO started operational flying in July 1943. Up until D-Day, he had completed numerous sorties, including 15 long-range escorts. He destroyed 1 ½ enemy aircraft during this period and damaged others on the ground. Since D-Day this NCO has been leading a section. On one occasion he was attacked by numerically superior enemy aircraft. He shot down two of these aircraft and damaged another on the ground. His score is now 4 ½ enemy aircraft destroyed and 2 damaged. He has also attacked numerous ground targets including trucks, trains, and gasometers, He is a fine leader and at all times has shown a great determination and aggressive fighting spirit.

It also records that he had 202 flying hours and 102 sorties at that point.

His Wing Commander said:

This Flight Sergeant is an exceptionally aggresive pilot and his spirit, results and contributions to the Squadron's efforts is of the highest order.

The DFC was approved 19/3/45. Because it was an Honorary award to a foreign national it isn't listed in the LG, (or Maton!)

There is also a biography of him in Aces High (Chris Shores) and several mentions in Fighter Squadron ( a history of 19 Sqn) (Derek Palmer)

Happy to post the details here, but I don't want to spoil your fun if you want to look them up.

A brave man, I would be honoured to be related to him.