JE Pugh - 25 squadron

[MikeW]

Does anyone know the christian names of Capt. JE Pugh, the 5 victory FE2 "ace" of 25 squadron - I am having terrible trouble differentiating him from 2/Lt John Edwin Pugh of 210 squadron.

Which one was Canadian?

Mike

The 25 Sqn pilot was Captain John Edward (or Edwardes?) Pugh. According to Above The War Fronts (ATWF) he achieved five victories flying DH4s between January and June 1918. He was awarded the MC (ATWF says the DFC in error) - London Gazette of 22 June 1918: For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He carried out twenty successful bombing raids and fifteen long-distance photographic reconnaissances, showing great determination in carrying out his work, in spite of strong opposition by enemy aircraft. In two days he took 108 photographs in course of long-distance flights. During a period of five days he dropped three-quarters of a ton of bombs on enemy troops and transport, and engaged ground targets with machine gun fire from a low altitude. On one occasion whilst on a bombing raid he was attacked by five enemy machines, one of which he destroyed. He set a splendid example of skill and resource.

Information a card file now held by the Directorate of History and Heritage, Canadian Forces Headquarters suggests that Capt Pugh also served in No 210 Sqn, between 13 October and 9 December 1918, overlapping the period of service for 2nd Lt Pugh who was KIA on 10 November.

This source contains info on aircrew with a Canadian connection and is available on www.airforce.ca/citations/wwi/index.htm

According to ATWF, Capt Pugh was born in England, moved to Canada in 1913 and returned there after the war.

Hope this helps

VBR Graeme