Description

Skies to Dunkirk Series

36 covers issued

Signed by F/Lt Noel K Stansfeld DFC – 242 Squadron Dunkirk 1940

Born in Edmonton but raised in Vancouver , Stansfeld (sometimes anglicised to Stansfield) joined the RAF as a volunteer pilot trainee before the outbreak of WWII. There were a number of Canadians who did likewise and who saw action early in the war. A number from 242 Sqn (the All-Canadian Squadron) became aces early in the war and Stansfeld was among their number. He shot down 7 enemy aircraft flying the Hawker Hurricane between May and September, 1940 and was awarded the DFC.

The All-Canadian Squadron was led by Douglas Bader who had this to say of Stansfeld:
“Conduct, very satisfactory. Temperate. This officer is the first Canadian in the squadron [sic]. He has a good brain, plenty of courage and is most reliable. Has a mature sense of judgement and is an excellent pilot. In combat he is ferocious and a good shot. Have a very high opinion of this officer and consider he should make a good Flight Commander with a little more experience. The best junior section leader in the squadron.”

He later was forced to bail out of his plane and thereafter spent most of the remainder of the war training other pilots – perhaps he suffered burnout as a result of the trauma. He transfered to the RCAF in 1945, having risen to the rank of Squadron Leader and he was also bestowed the Czech Medal for bravery. He passed away August 10, 1995.

See additional image of insert