Douglas I. Hall
Douglas was one of many who flew with the RCAF during the Second World War. He joined in July 1941 at age 19, at Toronto and received his wings at Dunnville, June 19, 1942. During his time with the Air Force he was referred to as “Sammy”. He underwent flight training (while training others) at No. 9 Bombing and Gunnery School, at both Mt. Joli and Bagotville, before going overseas with 400 Squadron on Sept 19, 1943. Douglas was then posted to 414 Squadron from 1944 to 1945 then finished his tour of duty with 411 Squadron. He was a photo-reconnaissance fighter pilot flying high and low altitude sorties, initially in Mustangs and then Spitfires. He received his first Distinguished Flying Cross while with 414 Squadron on March 29, 1945. In May of 1945 he engaged a formation of enemy aircraft at Neuntadt and downed 3 FW and one ME, while damaging two others, and he was awarded his second DFC for his exploits and he became the Squadron Ace. After the cessation of hostilities before repatriation from England he was one of the first test pilots for the first Operational Jet Fighter, the Gloster Meteor.
Douglas was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and Bar, March 29, 1945 and May 2, 1945; the rank of Knight of the French National Order of the Legion of Honour; the France and Germany Star; 1939 to 1945 Star; 1939 to 1945 War Medal; Defense Metal; Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and clasp; RCAF Reserve Medal and General Service Badge.
We Will Remember Them