Help to identify medal issued

[iambakerboy]

Hello all,

I am posting this image to see if anyone can help identify this mystery medal issued.
I am researching a family member that was killed overseas. He was part of the 576 squadron overseas.
I understand the 39-45 star, France & Germany star, war medal, and the Canadian volunteer Service Medal. Its the last column that has 'OP WGS'

Any idea?

Thanks

Greg

[Bill A]

Hello Greg, welcome to the Forum. Your account is active and open for posts.

[Bill A]

The insignia you are asking about is an Operations Wing. It was granted for either a certain number of bombing operations or flying hours depending upon the tasking. (eg fighters, air co-op, coastal command flying.) Image courtesy of Marway Militaria.

[mike_vee]

The date of the award is 23/11/46 :

This is a rare World War II Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) operations wings badge. This badge was given to a crew member for the completion of at least one tour, or awarded posthumously for at least one sortie against the enemy resulting in death.

.

[Bill A]

The O wings are not rare. Here is some background on 576 Sqn.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/No._576_Squadron_RAF

[iambakerboy]

Thanks guys, this helps a lot.

He did die coming back after a bombing run. The plane had taken damage on the way back and when attempting the landing back at the base, the plane exploded killing all crew.

[iambakerboy]

Thanks for the information. this help a lot.


The plane was on its way back from a mission when it crashed.

This is the official statement dated 7th January 1945 from the 576 Squadron.

"F/O Fletcher and crew were detailed to operate Lancaster NN.750 'M2' against Bonn on the night of 28th December 1944. On its return to this country the aircraft was heard to call R.A.F. station Manston. The pilot reported one member of his crew to be wounded and that he had no elevator control. He would attempt to land on trimmers. The aircraft was seen to make a good circuit, when, on approaching the runway, the engines were heard to open up as if to go around again, but went into a steep climb and dived vertically into the ground, where it completely burnt out."

Greg

Its funny the picture you found was from Marway Militaria. I go there often

[Padre]

A small additional point.

Against 'C.V.S.M' (Canadian Volunteer Service Medal) there are two ticks. The medal was issued for war service, but those who served overseas for at least 60 days were also permitted a bar to be worn on the full medal ribbon, or a silver maple leaf worn when only the ribbon bar is worn.