"No airman has served on more enemy fronts with greater distinction, and his indomitable spirit, despite adversity, gave such leadership to those under his command, as to have been of outstanding benefit to Canadian aviation."
Raymond Collishaw
"No airman has served on more enemy fronts with greater distinction, and his indomitable spirit, despite adversity, gave such leadership to those under his command, as to have been of outstanding benefit to Canadian aviation."
Raymond “Collie” Collishaw began flying long range bombing missions from France to Germany during the First World War. As the war continued, he proved to be one of Canada's greatest fighter pilots. He is generally credited with having shot down 60 enemy machines during his flying in France.
In 1939, he was promoted to the position of Air Commodore and given command of what would become known as the Desert Air Force. His group was outnumbered by the enemy, but by resorting to deception, improvisation, and determination, he maintained the offensive and his crews destroyed 1100 enemy aircraft.
Born: 22 Nov 1893, Nanaimo, BC Died: 28 Sept 1976 Awards: CB, DSO, OBE, DSC, DFC
