Richardson, Flying Officer John Andrew “Jack”

Service Highlights

  • Born November 16, 1919 in St. Marys, Ontario.
  • Enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force on March 9, 1942.
  • Served with 424 Squadron during the Second World War.
  • Posted overseas in January 1943.
  • Served in North Africa from July to October 1943.
  • Returned to England in November 1943 and served on heavy bombers until October 1944.
  • Commissioned on December 6, 1943.
  • Promoted to Flying Officer in June 1944.
  • Returned home in January 1945 and was discharged on March 26, 1945.
  • Awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.
  • Also awarded the Operational Wing, 1939-1945 Star, Italy Star, France and Germany Star, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal, and Air Bomber’s Flying Badge.
  • Member of St. Marys Legion Branch 236.
  • Died November 10, 2009.
  • Commemorated through the St. Marys Legion Veterans Banner Program.

A Life and Service Remembered

John Andrew Richardson was born in St. Marys in 1919 and served Canada during the Second World War with the Royal Canadian Air Force. He enlisted in March 1942 and was later posted overseas with 424 Squadron, a Royal Canadian Air Force bomber squadron.

His wartime service took him from England to North Africa, then back to England for further service on heavy bombers. As an air bomber, Richardson served in one of the most dangerous roles of the air war, flying operational missions as part of a bomber crew during a critical period of the conflict.

In December 1943 he was commissioned, and in June 1944 he was promoted to Flying Officer. His courage and service were recognized with the Distinguished Flying Cross, one of the highest awards for gallantry in the air.

At this time, his full service records are not publicly available, so the exact details of his wartime movements and operations have not yet been confirmed.

After returning home, Richardson remained connected to the veteran community as a member of St. Marys Legion Branch 236. He passed away on November 10, 2009, and is remembered in his hometown for his wartime service, bravery, and lifelong connection to St. Marys.

Major Battles and Operations

  • Service with 424 Squadron, Royal Canadian Air Force
  • Overseas service in England
  • Service in North Africa, 1943
  • Heavy bomber operations from England, 1943 to 1944
  • Service connected with the Italian Campaign, France and Germany, and the wider Allied air war

Learn More

Royal Canadian Legion Military Service Recognition Book Volume V
https://on.legion.ca/remembrance/military-service-recognition-book/msrb/

Find a Grave memorial
https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/44662630/john_andrew_richardson