It is with sadness that I inform you that another wartime pilot of 609 (West Riding) Squadron has left us. ‘Don Inches’, DFC passed away yesterday, Remembrance Sunday, in Canada at the age of 83.
INCHES, F/L Donald James (J20146)
Distinguished Flying Cross – No.609 Squadron – Award effective 20 June 1945 as per London Gazette dated 29 June 1945 and AFRO 1453/45 dated 14 September 1945. Born in 1921, St.Stephen, New Brunswick; home there. Enlisted there 15 September 1939. Trained at No.3 ITS (graduated 27 March 1942), No.14 EFTS (graduated 3 July 1942) and No. 2 SFTS (graduated 24 October 1942). Commissioned 1942.
Since January 1944, Flight Lieutenant Inches has taken part in a large number of attacks against a wide variety of targets. He has led his flight and on occasion the squadron on many successful sorties against heavily defended targets. He took part in the crossing of the Rhine when he led his flight on two sorties against anti-aircraft positions which were engaged on our airborne forces. A brilliant leader, this officer has always pressed home his attacks with courage, skill and great determination.
By: Ashley - 17th November 2004 at 17:33
🙁 Rest in peace Don
By: Bograt - 16th November 2004 at 13:21
These days I don’t tend to be sad when one of our war heroes passes away; as Moggy says, it is inevitable, and I find it envigorating to read the obits in the Telegraph on a Saturday and learn about people who have been so notable, particularly if they have been able to live a long and happy life. Their contribution to society cannot be overestimated, and I do wonder sometimes where tomorrow’s heroes will come from.
F/L James, you were a breed apart Sir, and the world has been a richer place for your being. You will always be remembered.
By: met24 - 16th November 2004 at 11:21
RIP Don. Clear Skies.
M
By: Arabella-Cox - 16th November 2004 at 10:24
Sorry to hear that Mark. Through your efforts I feel I know more about 609 than I do about most other squadrons, and so on occasions such as this when an old 609 boy passes away, well it almost feels like we’ve lost an old friend.
RIP Don. 🙁
By: Moggy C - 16th November 2004 at 09:52
Inevitable, but no less sad for that.
RIP Flight Lieutenant
Moggy
By: planejunky - 15th November 2004 at 22:34
Another passes over, RIP Don. 🙁
By: DazDaMan - 15th November 2004 at 22:09
We shall remember…
By: Dave Homewood - 15th November 2004 at 21:45
I’m sorry to hear this Mark. My condolences.
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November 15, 2004 at 9:35 pm