John Groves Topham RAF    A/C DSO,  DFC  &  Bar John Topham was born in Bradford, 18 March 1917. He attended Stand Grammar School, manchester. He joined the RAF on a short service commission in February 1939, when war looked imminent. Acting P/O on Probation, Gazetted 18 April 1939. He did his elementary flying at 6 E&RFTS, Sywell and moved on to 11 FTS, Shawbury. P/O on Probation, 28 November 1939. Winged early in 1940, he was posted to 219 Sqn., Catterick. P/O, Gazetted 27 February 1940. In Sept., 219 began to convert to Beaufighters & Topham teamed up with Sgt. H W 'Wilber' Berridge in late 1940;  a night-fighting partnership that was to last over 3 years. F/O, Gazetted 31 December 1940. In October 1943 he took command of 125 squadron at Exeter with Berridge as his navigator. F/L (war sub), Gazetted 16 November 1943. F/L, Gazetted 9 November 1945. S/L, Gazetted 22 March 1946 & again 25 February 1947. He retired 20 August 1968 as an Air Commodore. _________________________________________________

Distinguished Flying Cross

Acting S/L John Groves TOPHAM (41882), No. 219 Squadron.

This officer has participated in operational flying over a long period. He is a skilful and keen night fighter pilot and, although he has frequently carried out his sorties in extremely unfavourable flying conditions, he has destroyed 2 Junkers 88's. Squadron Leader Topham has at all times set a worthy example. London Gazette February 27 1942

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Bar to the Distinguished Flying Cross

Air Ministry, July, 1942. ROYAL AIR FORCE.
The KING has been graciously pleased to approve the following awards in recognition of gallantry displayed in flying operations against the enemy: —

Acting S/L John Groves TOPHAM, D.F.C. (41882), No. 219 Squadron.

This officer has performed work of outstanding merit. A skilful pilot and a fine leader, Squadron Leader Topham has been tireless in his efforts to attain success. By his personal example he has been largely responsible for the high standard of morale existing in his squadron. Squadron Leader Topham has destroyed five enemy aircraft during sorties at night.

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Distinguished Service Order

Acting W/C John Groves TOPHAM, D.F.C. & Bar (41882) R.A.F.O., 125 Sqn.

This officer has completed a large number of operational flying hours since being awarded a Bar to the Distinguished Flying Cross. His knowledge of all aspects of night fighting tactics is profound and his example of courage and tenacity has impressed all. Fourteen enemy aircraft have fallen to his guns at night. - London Gazette August 29 1944.

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Victories Include :

13 / 1 / 1

* Or Ju88

Score from Aces High [Shores & Williams]

DSO citation says 14 destroyed but its probably counting the probable

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unnamed source for the photos & infos !

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