222602 Flt.Sgt. Hubert Phillip Galarneau DFM.Royal Canadian Air Force 426 Sqd. from:Hamilton Hubert Galarneau was born 1916 in Hamilton, Ontario, he lived in Woodstock, Ontario and worked as a Salesman. On 21st of May 1942, he enlisted in London, Ontario Ex-RCA. He was commissioned on the 8th of April 1944 and trained at Mo.4 WS, graduating on 19th of April 1943 and No.3 BGS graduating on 23rd of July 1943).
His original recommendation for immediate DFM, dated 11th of July 1944 when he had flown 19 sorties (81 hours 35 minutes) details that when the pilot regained control he found that the navigator, wireless operator, bomb aimer and flight engineer had baled out. "Sergeant Galarneau went forward to the aid of his skipper, who had decided to return to England, and assisted the gunners in the Engineers duties. Having had some experience with wireless, he also worked violently to make the instruments serviceable, so that contact could be made with a Landing Field, but without avail. Then, as it was impossible to jettison, he went to the Bomb Aimer's compartment and defused all bombs. Three different aerodromes were circled before a safe but shaky landing was eventually made with a full bomb load. Sergeant Galarneau, by his coolness and presence of mind, and his complete disregard of personal safety, contributed in a large degree to the safe return of his aircraft to this country. This airman was the mid-upper gunner of an aircraft detailed to attack the railway junction at Acheres recently. During the outward flight the aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire, causing it to go into a violent spin. The pilot regained control but extensive damage had been sustained. Despite this he decided to attempt to fly the aircraft to this country. On the return flight, Flight Sergeant Galarneau proved a most resourceful member of aircraft crew and proved of great assistance to his captain. He set a fine example of determination and devotion to duty."
Distinguished Flying Medal - Award effective 19th of September 1944.
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