Course 39, No.4 Air Observer School, Crumlin, Ontario

1942

Roy Alexander Henry, DFC




 From Class Senior in Course 38 to junior (and noisiest) member of 39, Henry achieved promotion that others dream about.  "Hank" to us and repulsive to the women, ("I'll get you all the wimmin you want boys" -- what a laugh THAT was!)  Henry won no less than three jitterbug contests in Toronto before heading for California and a job as a night spot bartender - bus boy - bouncer.  Originally hailing from Toronto, Hank attended Danforth Tech where he was a member of the gymnastics and swimming teams - both of which gave him the whirling dervish propensities necessary to knock off the jitterbug contests.  Heading back to the land of the snows, Henry enlisted in the service in Toronto last May 2nd.  Since arriving in London, he has divided his attentions between DR and a chocolate drop establishment in the ratio of 6 to 1 - in favor of the blonde who works there, (and we do mean there).

HENRY, P/O Roy Alexander (J17441) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.426 Squadron - Award effective 6 August 1943 as per London Gazette dated 17 August 1943 and AFRO 2005/43 dated 1 October 1943.  Born 5 January 1919 in Toronto; enlisted there 21 May 1941.  Trained at No.1 ITS (graduated 4 September 1941), No.20 EFTS (graduated 13 October 1941), No.4 BGS (graduated 25 April 1942) and No.4 AOS (graduated 14 March 1942).  Commissioned 1943.  Bomb aimer in P/O N.G. McNeill's crew.

In capacity of air bomber he has taken part in many operational sorties attacking such heavily defended targets as Wilhelmshaven, Kiel, Frankfurt and the Ruhr Valley.  He has also successfully laid mines in enemy waters.  This officer's keenness and determination under fire have been of the highest order and the accuracy of his bombing has been displayed in photographs.  At all times his courage, skill and devotion to duty have been an inspiration to his crew.


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