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Post Info TOPIC: S/L Donald Herbert JACKLIN, DFC and Bar 108 Sq
fwx


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S/L Donald Herbert JACKLIN, DFC and Bar 108 Sq
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Wondering if anyone can help please with any info on Squadron Leader Donald Herbert JACKLIN, D.F.C. & Bar (40301) RAF, No. 108 Squadron.

[Edit: He trained with a fellow called Guy Gibson] 

His family has a copy of the citation for his Bar (London Gazette, 14 August 42, reproduced below) but not for his original DFC (listed London Gazette, 13 Sept 1940, but no citation). They also have an article (obituary) which mentions the circumstances of his awards, but some details do not quite fit - it says his DFC action took place flying a Hampden, which I don't think 108 Sq used??

[Edit: I now have more detail about his original DFC incident, which took place over the coast of England, in which the Hampden bomber he was piloting shot down a German bomber on the way to attacking an oil storage depot in Europe. So he must have been with a different Squadron, holding the rank of Flying Officer, when this took place, and must have been posted to 108 Sq at a later date.]  

There doesn't seem to be much about 108 Sq on the web, I can't find any reference to him later than August 42:

SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 14 AUGUST, 1942Bar to the Distinguished Flying Cross.
Acting Squadron Leader Donald Herbert JACKLIN, D.F.C. (40301) No. 108 Squadron.

One night in June this officer was the pilot of a bomber aircraft detailed to attack the enemy near Fuka. After flying over the area for some two hours an enemy column was observed. Despite difficulties, Sqn. Ldr. Jacklin manoeuvred to attack, but, whilst making his bombing runs, his aircraft was intercepted by a Ju. 88. In the ensuing engagement the bomber was repeatedly hit and the rear turret was put out of action. The aircraft lost height and was subjected to fire from the ground defences. Despite this, Sqn. Ldr. Jacklin, by skilful manoeuvring, enabled his front gunner to deliver an effective burst at the attacking aircraft, setting the forepart on fire. He then flew his damaged aircraft safely to one of our landing grounds, where he made a skilful landing. Throughout this officer displayed great courage and determination. 

[Edit: This action apparently took place during the battle of El Alamein, and I think 108 would have been flying Wellingtons at this time?]

He survived the war, apparently flying 99 op's in all. 


Any more detail would be much appreciated, thanks very much.
Cheers, Chris



-- Edited by fwx on Tuesday 18th of September 2012 05:24:12 PM

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