Family Card - Person Sheet
Family Card - Person Sheet
NameJohn Percy SIMMONDS 
, Uncle
, UncleBirth7 Oct 1922, North Battleford, Saskatchewan, Canada
Death20 Jun 2001, Hafford, Saskatchewan, Canada
Burial25 Jun 2001, St. Mary’s Anglican Church, Keatley, Saskatchewan, Canada
OccupationFarmer
FatherAlfred Henry Percy SIMMONDS (1884-1975)
MotherMargaret Patience DEAKIN (1888-1966)
Spouses
Birth24 Feb 1922, Aberbargoed, Monmouthshire, Wales
Death14 May 1999, Hafford, Saskatchewan, Canada
Burial18 May 1999, St. Mary’s Anglican Church, Keatley, Saskatchewan, Canada
FatherDavid JONES (1895-)
MotherBeatrice M. LEAVES (1896-)
Marriage6 Apr 1946
Children(Private)
(Private)
(Private)
Notes for John Percy SIMMONDS
Saskatchewan eHealth Birth Records
John Percy Simmonds, born October 7 1922, North Battleford, mother Margaret Patience Deakin, father Alfred Henry Percy Simmonds
In the 1926 Census of Manitoba, Saskathcewan and Alberta
West 1/2 34-44-11 W3, Rural Municipality of Douglas, Battleford Electorial district, Saskatchewan
Head Percy Simmonds, married, age 41, born England, parents born England, immigrated 1904, Canadian citizenship
Wife Margaret P. Simmonds, married, age 38, born England, parents born England, immigrated 1912, Canadian citizenship
Son John Percy Simmonds, age 3, born Saskatchewan, parents born England
Daughter Patience M. Simmonds, age 2, born Saskatchewan, parents born England
Son Robert Henry Simmonds, age 1 month, born Saskatchewan, parents born England
Aunt Edith P. Jewell, widow, age 71, born England, parents born England, immigrated 1905
hiredman Edward Stogard, single, age 34, born Denmark, parents born Denmark, Danish citizen, mother tongue Danish
In the 1931 Canadian Census taken June 1, 1931
Saskatchewan, North Battleford district, subdistrict 19
home owner, home valued at $600, single floor, wood, 5 rooms, family has a radio,
Section 34-44-11 W3 Rural Municipality of Douglas
Head Percy Simmonds, male, married, age 44 [actually 47], born England, parents born England, immigrated 1904, nationality Canada, racial origin English, can speak English, can speak French, Church of England, farmer, general farm, total earnings in the last 12 months $960.
Wife Margaret Simmonds, female, married, age 43, born England, parents born England, immigrated 1909 [actually 1912], nationality Canada, racial origin English, speaks English, speaks French, Church of England,
Son John Simmonds, age 8, born Saskatchewan, speaks English, doesn’t speak French, 7 months in school since September 1
Daughter Patience Simmonds, age 7, born Saskatchewan, speaks English, doesn’t speak French, 7 months in school since September 1
Son Robert Simmonds, age 5, born Saskatchewan, speaks English, no time in school
Son Thomas Simmonds, age 3, born Saskatchewan
Servant Antony Salamon, single, age 50, born Russia, parents born Russia, immigrated 1925, nationality Russia, racial origin Russia, speaks English, Greek Catholic, farm labourer
Lodger [Independent was crossed out, but actually Percy’s Aunt.] Edith Jewell, widow, age 76, born England, parents born England, immigrated 1904, Nationality English, racial origin English, speaks English, doesn’t speak French, occupation Income (Independent crossed out)
Star-Phoenix, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, June 23 2001
Obituary
SIMMONDS Mr. John Percy Slmmonds, passed away at Hafford Hospital on Wednesday, June 20, 2001 . John was born October 7, 1922 In North Battleford, SK. He grew up on the family farm near Keatley On October 30, 1942 John enlisted In the R.C.A.F and became a pilot with 437 Squadron for the duration of the war. He met Enid Jones at one of his postings In the U.K. and they were married on April 2, 1946 In Wales. They made their home on the family farm and raised three children, Richard, Beverley and David. John was very active In the community. He was a delegate for the Sask. Wheat Pool for a number of years, served on the Speers and Battlefords Credit Union Board, and was Involved with the Hafford Rec Board to name a few. John will be lovingly remembered and forever cherished by his children and grandchildren: Rick and Harlene Simmonds and their children, Dallas, Lindsey and Tennille of Hafford; Barry and Bev Lypka and their children, Melissa and Candace of Airdrie, AB; David Slmmonds and his children, Justine and Morgan of Airdrie, AB, Funeral service will be held on June 25, 2001 at 2:00 p.m, at the St. Solange Church In Hafford with The Very Rev. Susan Charbonneau officiating. Interment to follow at St. Mary 's Anglican Cemetery In Keatley.
Served in WWII, RCAF, pilot, flew DC-3’s. 437 Squadron (Flight Lieutenant Service Number J41767) Farmed his father’s homestead. Served as a Wheat Pool delegate. Also was active for many years with the Credit Union.
Graduation Dinner Invitation
Course 90
Graduation Dinner
No. 17 S.F.T.S. Souris [Manitoba, Canada]
February 8, 1944 1900 hours Blue Room
LAC. Breithaupt D. L., Toronto, Ontario
LAC. Brown, D. G., Stratford, Ontario
LAC. Brown, R.R., Richmond, Ontario
LAC. Cohn, W. S., Winnipeg, Manitoba
LAC. Darling, D., Peterborough, Ontario
LAC. Dever, J. K., Kemptville, Ontario
LAC. Foster, E. A., Queens Co., Nova Scotia
LAC. Graham, C. C., Vancouver, British Columbia
LAC. Hare, P., Toronto, Ontario
LAC. Hoare, F. T., St. Catharines, Ontario
LAC. Hunt, H. A., North Bay, Ontario
LAC. Kennedy, C. J., Toronto, Ontario
LAC. Macey, C., Middlesex, England
LAC. MacKenzie, C. L., Balmoral, Manitoba
LAC. McGrath, E. W., London, Ontario
LAC. Menzies, C. S. A., Glasgow, Scotland
LAC. Merchant, J. H. P., Sturgeon Falls, Ontario
LAC. Miall, P. G., Kent, England
LAC. Morrisson, L. C., Norwood, Manitoba
LAC. Murray, E. L., Souris, Manitoba
LAC. Nicholls, F. A., Wiltshire, England
LAC. Noble, R. E., Durham, England
LAC. North, J. B., Glasgow, Scotland
LAC. Oates, L., Newcastle-on-Tyne, England
LAC. Oldershaw, F. T., Brantford, Ontario
LAC. Olive, B., Lancashire, England
LAC. O’Neill, H. B., London, England
LAC. Oreto, G. J., Toronto, Ontario
LAC. Orman, J. J., York, England
LAC. Orr, M. H., Renfrewshire, Scotland
CPL. Owen, J. S., Merionethshire, N. Wales
LAC. Patterson, E., Verdun, Quebec
LAC. Pearson, B. N., Somerset, England
LAC. Pemberton, J. E. L., Hastings, England
LAC. Pollock, S., Clydebank, Scotland
LAC. Pollock, W. B. A., Ayr, Scotland
LAC. Powell, N., Staffordshire, England
LAC. Pratt, W. G. F., Montreal, Quebec
LAC. Prescott, J. B., Toronto, Ontario
LAC. Price, N. T., Bristol, England
LAC. Pugh, C. D. W., Cheltenham, England
LAC. Ravenhill, C., Lancashire, England
LAC. Reaume, G. C., Windsor, Ontario
LAC. Reed, A. E., London, England
LAC. Richardson, A. G., London, England
LAC. Rochfort, O. P. J., Stratford on Avon, England
LAC. Rudge, J. C., London, England
LAC. Schoolar, J. R. A. W., Nottingham, England
F./O. Simmans, D. K., Morden, Manitoba
LAC. Simmonds, J. P., Speers, Saskatchewan
LAC. Simpson, J. M., Winnipeg, Manitoba
LAC. Teichmann, O. R., Eburne, British Columbia
LAC. Thompson, W. R., Bathurst, New Brunswick
LAC. Wake, J. I. A., Winnipeg, Manitoba
LAC. Wheaton, D. H., Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
end of invitation
Information on 437 squadron taken from National Defence web site
The RCAF did not form its own transport squadrons until the late summer of 1944 when three transport squadrons were formed overseas: two transport squadrons to operate in South-East Asia and one to operate in north-west Europe. No. 437 Squadron was initially employed in towing Horsa gliders taking part in the airborne assault on Arnhem and the crossing of the Rhine at Wesel. After the German surrender, No. 437 Squadron moved to Belgium where it conducted airlift operations throughout the European continent from Norway to Greece.
The third unit, No. 437 Squadron, began operations almost immediately, towing gliders for the airborne landing at Arnhem in September 1944. In the months that followed, its Dakotas dropped supplies and ferried troops, equipment, ammunition, and gasoline to continental bases, returning with casualties and VIPs. In March 1945, the Squadron again towed gliders for the Rhine crossing at Wesel and then resumed its routine ferrying work.
After the German surrender, No. 437 moved to the continent and extended its operations as far afield as Oslo, Vienna, Naples, and Athens. Its Aircraft brought home released prisoners of war and displaced civilians, carried food supplies for the relief of starving peoples of the once Nazi-occupied lands, and flew mail from home to Canadians scattered over the continent.
At the end of World War II the three Dakota squadrons teamed up in Europe to form a Wing until they were eventually disbanded between August 1945 and May 1946. Later these airmen became the backbone of Air Transport Command.
end of quote on 437 squadron
from http://www.pegasusarchive.org/arnhem/batt_437.htm
437 Squadron was by far the youngest member of 46 Group, it was formed at Blakehill Farm on the 4th September 1944, but did not officially come into operation until two days before Operation Market Garden. It then had the distinction of being the only Royal Canadian Air Force squadron in Transport Command.
Arnhem
The Squadron at first consisted of just fifteen Dakotas, which had obtained from a variety of sources, and twelve of these were deployed during the First Lift of Market Garden, with each aircraft towing a Horsa glider. One of these had to abort the mission and return to base, but the flight was otherwise uneventful and the remainder returned safely after releasing their gliders. A further four glider towing sorties were completed over the following days, thereafter the Squadron participated in resupply operations to the troops at Arnhem.
On Thursday 21st September, the air forces suffered their cruelest losses, not merely due to intense fire from the anti-aircraft guns on the ground, but also to a number of Luftwaffe aircraft which caused havoc amongst the unescorted, slow and unarmoured transports. 437 Squadron had ten of its Dakotas in the air on this day, but only four of these returned to base. Four were shot down over Arnhem, the crew of another bailed out, whilst the sixth made a successful crash landing. Another loss was to come, on Saturday 23rd September, Flying Officer Paget's Dakota was shot down, killing all four aircrew and four RASC despatchers aboard.
In all, not including the four killed despatchers previously mentioned, the Battle of Arnhem had claimed the lives of twelve aircrew, and a further four were taken prisoner. The Squadron's gallantry during this costly baptism of fire was recognised, however; two Distinguished Flying Crosses and a Distinguished Flying Medal were awarded.
The Recovery
The losses were soon replaced, and thereafter the Squadron assumed the day-to-day duties of 46 Group, flying freight and passengers to the front line and bringing wounded men back to where they could receive proper medical treatment. The Allies dominated the skies at this time, so there was little else to trouble the crews during these flights other than the state of the weather and the condition of the runways on which they landed. These points could be perilous; on the 24th October 1944, Flight Sergeant Schneider's Dakota left an airfield in Belgium during poor weather, and neither he nor his crew were seen again.
The shuttle service that 46 Group ran between England and the front line was extremely valuable in terms of the lives it saved and the supplies that it delivered. To assist them in this endeavour, 437 Squadron received a number of Anson aircraft in November. During the following month, Germany launched a major offensive through the Ardennes and the resupply flights intensified and continued without respite, if the weather allowed, until late January 1945.
The Rhine Crossing
On the 24th March, 437 Squadron returned to their original role of dropping and supplying airborne troops, by helping to transport the 6th Airborne Division to its various drop and landing zones around Hamminkeln, thereby securing a bridgehead across the Rhine. Twenty-four of their Dakotas were used during the first and only lift of the operation, each towing a Horsa carrying men and equipment of the 1st Royal Ulster Rifles. Anti-aircraft fire was very heavy and four of the aircraft received damaged, yet all made safe landings at their forward base at Nivelles, in Belgium. They remained here in anticipation of being called upon to carry out supply dropping sorties to the Division, however due to the rapid progress of the ground forces, further operations were deemed unnecessary and the Squadron returned to Blakehill Farm on the 26th March. Five Distinguished Service Crosses were awarded to the Squadron's aircrew for their conduct during the operation.
The Squadron resumed its usual shuttle service to the front line, but increasingly the return flights were not dedicated to flying the wounded home to British hospitals, but repatriating freed prisoners of war. On the 7th May 1945, the Squadron received orders to specialise in this task, and to facilitate this it moved back to Nivelles on a more permanent basis. Three days later Squadron Leader McVeigh landed in Oslo, in Norway, one of the first Allied aircraft to do so after the German surrender, tasked with transporting the Nazi peace delegation to Scotland.
Post-War
By June, the Squadron was operating from a number of bases. The main body was removed to Melsbroek, but six of its aircraft remained in Oslo, with further minor detachments at Odiham, in England, and Gatow, in Germany. For many servicemen, the end of the war naturally brought about a more relaxed atmosphere in their operations, but transport aircraft were needed like never before, and if anything the Squadron's work rate increased. They carried freight and passengers to destinations all over Europe; one of the more notable of the latter was "Lord Haw Haw", taken to England to face trial for his infamous Nazi propaganda broadcasts.
In September, 437 Squadron's headquarters was posted to Evère. While here, news was received that King George VI had approved their badge which depicted a Husky pulling a sledge; thereafter they became known as the Husky Squadron. Although a few of their more scattered elements remained at various bases around Europe, the majority were recalled to Odiham where they joined 435 and 436 Squadrons, collectively becoming 120 (RCAF) Transport Wing. The Squadron continued to fly freight, passengers and mail all over Europe until they carried out their last sortie on the 30th May 1946. On the 16th June, the Squadron was disbanded.
On the 1st October 1961, 437 Squadron was reformed at Trenton, Ontario, carrying out the various transport duties to Canadian forces in Europe that their predecessors would have been familiar with. The Huskies are still performing this role from Trenton today, under their proud motto, "Omnia Passim" (Anytime, Anywhere), carrying equipment, personnel and VIP's in support of the Canadian military, NATO, the United Nations and the Red Cross.
The information contain in this history has come from the article "No.437 Squadron Canadian Armed Forces", by Andrew Thomas. Thanks to Alan Hartley for his help.
end of article
Note: One of the DC-3 planes flown by 437 squadron ID FZ692 (OR) [John Simmonds flew this plane on at least once] is preserved at the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum in Hamilton which is still flown on occasion.
From the Military Service Recognition Book - Royal Canadian Legion, Saskatchewan Command
John Percy Simmonds WWII
John was born in North Battleford SK, on October 7, 1922. He enlisted in the Air Force [RCAF] as a pilot with 437th Squadron, serving in Bournemouth, South Cerney, Leicester, Croydon, Basingstoke, Brussels and [Buckebery,] Germany. He was discharged in 1945 {actually 1946], and received the War Medal, the Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and Clasp, and Overseas Medal. After his discharge, he farmed on the family farm. John passed away on June 20, 2001.
[I think he was discharged in 1946, not 1945. He was married in April 1946, in Wales wearing an RCAF uniform. If he was discharged in 1945, he would have returned to Canada in 1945, went to Wales in 1946 to marry, returned to Canada by himself, then Enid would have come to Canada later on a war bride ship. I don’t think it would have happened that way.]
Excerpts from Operations Records Book for No. 437 Squadron Royal Canadian Air Force
[Note: RAF Blakehill Farm opened in 1944 home to No. 46 Group RAF Transport Command. It was South West of Cricklade, Wiltshire.4 37 Squadron was based her September 1, 1944 to May 7, 1945.]
Formation Blakehill Farm September 4, 1944
There were three flights of 12 or 13 crews plus the Commanding officer and a another crew with I believe the 2nd in command
The Squadron had about 26 Dakotas with a few Ansons
At formation “B” Flight at Broadwell
As at 1st November, 1944 (and December 1, 1944), Blakehill Farm
“B” Flight
PILOT CAN.J.28308 F/O J.M. Byrnes
CO-PILOT CAN.J.41767 P/O J.P. Simmonds
NAV.B. CAN.J.38747 P/O K.W. Hunt
W/OP A.G. CAN.R.180020 F/S J.R. Chambers
[Note Byrnes had a different co-pilot in October]
Note in the first several days of October all crew members were listed, however this changed later in the month. Thus based on the crew list roster it is assumed J.P. Simmonds was the co-pilot.]
Note: B.58 was Melsbroek, Belgium, B.56 was Evere Belgium, B.75 was Nivelles, Belgium. Northolt is in NW London.
Aircraft Type and Number, Crew, Duty, time up, time down, details
[Note the aircraft Type was Dakota Mk. III, and later some Dakota IV’s unless otherwise stated]
November 2, 1944
FZ 610, F/O Byrnes and crew, Transport,0955, 1605, 4800 ils. mail to B.58. 19 stretcher cases, 4 walking casualties from B.58 to base
November 5, 1944
FZ 610, F/O Byrnes, Transport, 1335, 1320 [next day], 22 passengers from Northholt to B.58. Night stopped. 14 passengers from B.58 to Northolt.
November 9, 1944
FZ 610, F/O Byrnes, Transport, 0800, 1600, 6 aircraft carried 30, 022 lbs. freight from Bicester to B.58. 1 aircraft carried 21 casualties B.58 to Down Ampney, and 1 a/c carried 19 passenger to Northolt on return. Remainder came home empty.
November 20, 1944
Anson 199, F/O Byrnes, Transport, 1045, 1335, 2 passengers Northolt to Le Bourget-Dijon-LeBourget-Northolt. Night stopped at Le Bourget.
November 21, 1944
FZ 692, F/O Byrnes, Transport, 1045, 1335, 4982 lbs. freight base to B.77. Returned empty.
November 26, 1944
FZ 679, F/O Byrnes, Transport, 1300, 1255, 19 passengers Northolt to B.78. 3 passengers B.78 to B.58. Night stopped. 1 passenger ers B.58-Northolt
November 27, 1944
FZ 679, F/O Byrnes, 1005, 1850, 4621 lbs. freight Wing to A.54. 4588 lbs freight A.54 to A.68. Returned empty.
December 2, 1944
KG 565, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0810, 1725, Eight aircraft carried 39,650 lbs. ammunition to B.70 and returned with 111 passengers and kit to Perranporth.
December 5, 1944
FS 679, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0952, 1605, 22 passengers to B.78, 7 passengers B.78 to B.58, returned empty.
December 8, 1944
FZ 610, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), 0835, 1510, 5000 lbs. winter clothing from Ricester to B.38. Returned empty.
December 12, 1944
EG 412, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0920, 1639, 4142 lbs. equipment and 5 passengers and kit from Down Ampney to Lyons on 10.12.44. Returned to Croydon on 14.12.44 with 5100 lbs. equipment.
December 17, 1944
FZ 634, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0840, 1655, 4998 lbs. airforce freight from Bicester to B.58. Returned with 4500 lbs. equipment, 15 passengers and kit to Northolt.
December 18, 1944
FZ669, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0830, 1345, 4750 lbs. (19 passengers) from Warmwell to B.58. Returned with 18 passengers (4230 lbs) to Warmwell
December 30, 1944
ND 565, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), , Transport, 1010, 1700, 5000 lbs. emergency freight from base to B.70 and returned with 4328 lbs. mail unloaded at Down Ampney.
December 31, 1944
No Number stated, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), , Transport, 1000, 1600, 4950 lbs. freight to B.77. Returned empty.
January 1, 1945
FZ 694,F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transpoet, 1120, 1305 (Jan.2), Fourteen aircraft carried 82,965 lbs. of glycol and R.A.F. freight to B.75. One aircraft returned with 2 passengers to Northolt. 13 aircraft returned empty.
January 6, 1945
FZ 679?, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 1200, 1700, Thirteen aircraft 68,000 lbs. miscellaneous freight to B.75. One aircraft returned with 18 stretcher and 6 walking casualties from B.58 to Down Ampney. Two aircraft night stopped at B.75. Ten aircraft returned empty.
January 7, 1945
NG 394, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 1105, 1800, Thirteen aircraft carried mixed array freight (65,000 lbs.) to B.75. 9 a/c returned empty. [others returned with casualties, mail or passenger.]
January 9, 1945
NG 394, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, no up or down times, This aircraft held up at Northolt due to weather.
January 18, 1945
FZ 610, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 1015, 1515, Eleven aircraft carried 55,000 lbs. of aray? freight to B.75. Five returned empty on January 19. [Others returned January 19 passengers including POW’s]
January 21, 1945
FZ 600, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 1115, 1730, One aircraft carried 5000 lbs. R.A.F. stores to B.56 and returned with 30? passengers to Northolt.
January 27, 1945
FZ 610, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 1340, 1505, Carried 16 passengers from Northolt to B.58 and returned January 28 with 21 passengers to Northolt.
[At this point the up and down times changed from leaving Blakehill and returning to the airfield to all intermediate takeoffs and landings. I will give the full list for this one as an example then only list the first takeoff and last landing.]
February 3, 1945
Anson NL 199 NY, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 1254, Northolt 1438, 1552, B.56 1705, 1306, A.54 1436, 0922, Kenley 1050, 1140, 1216, One Anson carried 3 passengers from Northolt on Jan. 29 to B.56 and A.54 and returned vis Kenley on Feb 3.
February 5, 1945
KG 565 DK, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 1000, 1700, Eight aircraft carried 153 passengers and kit to B.57 via Thorney Island. One aircraft KG 409 on this run crashed at Thorney Island. Crew baled out safely. All eight aircraft returned empty.{?]
February 9, 1945
ED 565 DK, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0730, 1130, Twelve aircraft carried 218 troops and one passenger to B.75. All aircraft returned empty.
[Also did a 45 minute formation exercise this day]
February 10, 1945
FZ 694 DF, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0935, 1325, Eleven aircraft carried 211 army troops to B.75. 10 returned empty.
February 11, 1945
FG 694 DP F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, , 0905, 1650, One aircraft carried 30 passengers and kit to B.75 and returned empty via Manston
[February 16 more training in formation flying.]
February 27, 1944
F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 1010, 1740, 3002 lbs. army freight to B.75 and returned with 20 army personel to Northolt.
February 28, 1945
KG 565 DK, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0905, 1425, 4658 lbs. of R.A.F.equipment to B.75 and returned with 34 passengers to Northolt.
March 1, 1945
KN 261 DN F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, , 0750, 1945, 5 aircraft carried 99 Canadian Troops and to Istres and all returned empty.
March 2, 1945
KN 261 DN F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, , 1130, 1720, Fifteen aircraft carried 75,000 lbs. army freight to B.75. Fourteen aircraft returned empty.
March 5, 1945
F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, Two aircraft carried 10,000 lbs. of signal equipment to B.56 on March 4th and returned empty on March 5.
March 6, 1945
FZ 692, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0815, 1420, Carried 5000 lbs. to A.C.G. stores to B.75 and returned with 4056 lbs. of captured enemy signals equipment and 2 passengers to Northolt from B.75
March 7, 1945. Training
F/0 Byrnes tested FZ 694 for radar equipment and also flew KN 256 to Down Ampney, Hendon and return.
March 10, 1945. Training
F/O Byrnes airtested KN 981
March 11, 1945
FZ 669 DQ, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0700, 1735, made 2 lifts, on first lift carried 5000 lbs. army freight to B.56 and returned empty, on 2nd lift carried 4982 lbs. of army freight to B.56 and returned empty.
March 12, 1945
KN 256 DL, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 1135, 1739, returned with 14 personnel to Honnington from B.75
March 14, 1945. Training
No operations were carried ou today, due to a Balco in which seventeen squadron aircraft and crews participated - Exercise Vulture IV.
March 16, 1944 Training
F/O Wells and F/O Byrnes each completed two special glider tugs from base using KG 594 and KG 565
March 17, 1945
KG 412 NT, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0930, 225, Made 2 lifts, on first carried 19 personnel to B.71 via Blackbush and returned empty, on 2nd lift carried 18 army personnel and kit to B.75 and returned to Fairwood Common from B.83 with 18 R.A.F. personnel. [Tey made 7 takeoffs and 7 landings that day!]
March 18, 1945 Training.
F/O Byrnes airtested KN 21
March 20, 1945 Training.
F/O Byrnes flew KN 281 to Birch and return.
March 21, 1945 Operations
26 squadron crews proceed to Birch today to remain there to operate on Exercise Varsity at such time is ordered. All crews proceeding to Birch gave their respective aircraft a thorough air test during the day.
March 24, 1945. Operations
Glider Operation Varsity was carried out today. 24 crews participated (9 “A” Flight brews, 6 “B” Flight Crews , 7 “C” Flight crews. Two crews acted as standby crews. Upon completion of Operation, all crews returned to B.75 to standby for possible re-supply mission. The operation was successfully completed without loss of aircraft or injury to any personel. [from later entry] 230 personnel of 1st Ulter Rifles, their jeeps and other equipment. [Byrnes flew on that operation but had a different co-pilot. Presumably John Simmonds was selected to become a captain of a plane and was to be sent for training.]
March 26, 1945
Officers - Postings out P/O J.P.Simmonds, Pilot, to 106 O.T.U. [Operational Training Unit]
May 8, 1945
Victory in Europe Day
Now the Squadron is at Brussels-Melsbroak
July, 1945 [No day given]
Officers - Postings to the Squadron, J.41767 F/O J.P. Simmonds [now promoted Flying Officer today Lieutenant]
July 22, 1945
DU KN 269, F/O J.P. Simmonds (C): W/O R. Laidlaw (2P): F/O R.E. Rose (N): F/O E.L. Barby (W), Transport, 0814, 1815, Empty to B.56, 18 passengers to Northolt, 16 passengers to B.56, 15 Passengers to Y.56, 3 passengers to B.56, empty to B.58
July 23, 1945
DS KG 577, F/O J.P. Simmonds (C): W/O I.A. Cousins (2P): F/O R.E. Rose (N): F/O E.L. Barby (W), Transport, 0410, 1632, Empty to B.61, 2000 lbs. yeast to Y.94, 1000 lbs. yeast to R.14, empty to B156, 800 lbs. yeast to Gladow, 9 passengers, 12 casualties and 3 ex. P.O.W. to B.56, empty to B.58
July 24, 1945
DU KN 269, F/O J.P. Simmonds (C): W/O R. Laidlaw (2P): F/O R.E. Rose (N): F/O E.L. Barby (W), Transport, 1512, July 25 1509, Empty to B.56, 22 passengers to B168, 16 passenges to R158, 8 passenegrs to B168, 20 passenegrs to B.56, empty to B.58.
July 26, 1945
DS ED 577, F/O J.P. Simmonds (C): W/O I.A. Cousins (2P): F/O R.E. Rose (N): F/O E.L. Barby (W), Transport, 0604, July 27 1720, Empty to B.56, 24 passengers to B151, 27 passengers to B158, 21 passengers to B164, 20 passengers to B150, 20 passengers to B151, 20 passengers to B.56, empty to B.58.
Some of the squadron moved to Oslo (Fornebu) and some to Oldiham but not John Simmonds
at this point most trips seem to be round trip passenger flights or yeast with stops on the route.
August 5, 1945 ODOY KG 595, same crew
August 7, 1945 ODOS FZ 639, same crew
August 8, 1945 ODOS FZ 639, same crew
September 5, 1945 ODOW KN 279 , same crew
September 6, 1945, ODON NG 425, same crew
…
The last regular flight shown in the records was May 31, 1946, ???45 OPAF
June 16, 1946
FE6212 CFAP, F/O S/L Sanderson N.C: F/L Simmonds J.P.: P/OGilchrist E.D.: F/O Mitchell F.C., Flyback, Odiham 0900, 4 passengers
With the departure of the remaining 7 aircraft, led by S/L B.C. Miller, the squadron has disbanded.
End of excepts
Note Unless otherwise indicated, the list of operations do not include training such as glider tugging, dropping panniers, air tests of aircraft, weather checks, etc. Also there were days when the squadron could not operate due to the weather.
John Percy Simmonds, born October 7 1922, North Battleford, mother Margaret Patience Deakin, father Alfred Henry Percy Simmonds
In the 1926 Census of Manitoba, Saskathcewan and Alberta
West 1/2 34-44-11 W3, Rural Municipality of Douglas, Battleford Electorial district, Saskatchewan
Head Percy Simmonds, married, age 41, born England, parents born England, immigrated 1904, Canadian citizenship
Wife Margaret P. Simmonds, married, age 38, born England, parents born England, immigrated 1912, Canadian citizenship
Son John Percy Simmonds, age 3, born Saskatchewan, parents born England
Daughter Patience M. Simmonds, age 2, born Saskatchewan, parents born England
Son Robert Henry Simmonds, age 1 month, born Saskatchewan, parents born England
Aunt Edith P. Jewell, widow, age 71, born England, parents born England, immigrated 1905
hiredman Edward Stogard, single, age 34, born Denmark, parents born Denmark, Danish citizen, mother tongue Danish
In the 1931 Canadian Census taken June 1, 1931
Saskatchewan, North Battleford district, subdistrict 19
home owner, home valued at $600, single floor, wood, 5 rooms, family has a radio,
Section 34-44-11 W3 Rural Municipality of Douglas
Head Percy Simmonds, male, married, age 44 [actually 47], born England, parents born England, immigrated 1904, nationality Canada, racial origin English, can speak English, can speak French, Church of England, farmer, general farm, total earnings in the last 12 months $960.
Wife Margaret Simmonds, female, married, age 43, born England, parents born England, immigrated 1909 [actually 1912], nationality Canada, racial origin English, speaks English, speaks French, Church of England,
Son John Simmonds, age 8, born Saskatchewan, speaks English, doesn’t speak French, 7 months in school since September 1
Daughter Patience Simmonds, age 7, born Saskatchewan, speaks English, doesn’t speak French, 7 months in school since September 1
Son Robert Simmonds, age 5, born Saskatchewan, speaks English, no time in school
Son Thomas Simmonds, age 3, born Saskatchewan
Servant Antony Salamon, single, age 50, born Russia, parents born Russia, immigrated 1925, nationality Russia, racial origin Russia, speaks English, Greek Catholic, farm labourer
Lodger [Independent was crossed out, but actually Percy’s Aunt.] Edith Jewell, widow, age 76, born England, parents born England, immigrated 1904, Nationality English, racial origin English, speaks English, doesn’t speak French, occupation Income (Independent crossed out)
Star-Phoenix, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, June 23 2001
Obituary
SIMMONDS Mr. John Percy Slmmonds, passed away at Hafford Hospital on Wednesday, June 20, 2001 . John was born October 7, 1922 In North Battleford, SK. He grew up on the family farm near Keatley On October 30, 1942 John enlisted In the R.C.A.F and became a pilot with 437 Squadron for the duration of the war. He met Enid Jones at one of his postings In the U.K. and they were married on April 2, 1946 In Wales. They made their home on the family farm and raised three children, Richard, Beverley and David. John was very active In the community. He was a delegate for the Sask. Wheat Pool for a number of years, served on the Speers and Battlefords Credit Union Board, and was Involved with the Hafford Rec Board to name a few. John will be lovingly remembered and forever cherished by his children and grandchildren: Rick and Harlene Simmonds and their children, Dallas, Lindsey and Tennille of Hafford; Barry and Bev Lypka and their children, Melissa and Candace of Airdrie, AB; David Slmmonds and his children, Justine and Morgan of Airdrie, AB, Funeral service will be held on June 25, 2001 at 2:00 p.m, at the St. Solange Church In Hafford with The Very Rev. Susan Charbonneau officiating. Interment to follow at St. Mary 's Anglican Cemetery In Keatley.
Served in WWII, RCAF, pilot, flew DC-3’s. 437 Squadron (Flight Lieutenant Service Number J41767) Farmed his father’s homestead. Served as a Wheat Pool delegate. Also was active for many years with the Credit Union.
Graduation Dinner Invitation
Course 90
Graduation Dinner
No. 17 S.F.T.S. Souris [Manitoba, Canada]
February 8, 1944 1900 hours Blue Room
LAC. Breithaupt D. L., Toronto, Ontario
LAC. Brown, D. G., Stratford, Ontario
LAC. Brown, R.R., Richmond, Ontario
LAC. Cohn, W. S., Winnipeg, Manitoba
LAC. Darling, D., Peterborough, Ontario
LAC. Dever, J. K., Kemptville, Ontario
LAC. Foster, E. A., Queens Co., Nova Scotia
LAC. Graham, C. C., Vancouver, British Columbia
LAC. Hare, P., Toronto, Ontario
LAC. Hoare, F. T., St. Catharines, Ontario
LAC. Hunt, H. A., North Bay, Ontario
LAC. Kennedy, C. J., Toronto, Ontario
LAC. Macey, C., Middlesex, England
LAC. MacKenzie, C. L., Balmoral, Manitoba
LAC. McGrath, E. W., London, Ontario
LAC. Menzies, C. S. A., Glasgow, Scotland
LAC. Merchant, J. H. P., Sturgeon Falls, Ontario
LAC. Miall, P. G., Kent, England
LAC. Morrisson, L. C., Norwood, Manitoba
LAC. Murray, E. L., Souris, Manitoba
LAC. Nicholls, F. A., Wiltshire, England
LAC. Noble, R. E., Durham, England
LAC. North, J. B., Glasgow, Scotland
LAC. Oates, L., Newcastle-on-Tyne, England
LAC. Oldershaw, F. T., Brantford, Ontario
LAC. Olive, B., Lancashire, England
LAC. O’Neill, H. B., London, England
LAC. Oreto, G. J., Toronto, Ontario
LAC. Orman, J. J., York, England
LAC. Orr, M. H., Renfrewshire, Scotland
CPL. Owen, J. S., Merionethshire, N. Wales
LAC. Patterson, E., Verdun, Quebec
LAC. Pearson, B. N., Somerset, England
LAC. Pemberton, J. E. L., Hastings, England
LAC. Pollock, S., Clydebank, Scotland
LAC. Pollock, W. B. A., Ayr, Scotland
LAC. Powell, N., Staffordshire, England
LAC. Pratt, W. G. F., Montreal, Quebec
LAC. Prescott, J. B., Toronto, Ontario
LAC. Price, N. T., Bristol, England
LAC. Pugh, C. D. W., Cheltenham, England
LAC. Ravenhill, C., Lancashire, England
LAC. Reaume, G. C., Windsor, Ontario
LAC. Reed, A. E., London, England
LAC. Richardson, A. G., London, England
LAC. Rochfort, O. P. J., Stratford on Avon, England
LAC. Rudge, J. C., London, England
LAC. Schoolar, J. R. A. W., Nottingham, England
F./O. Simmans, D. K., Morden, Manitoba
LAC. Simmonds, J. P., Speers, Saskatchewan
LAC. Simpson, J. M., Winnipeg, Manitoba
LAC. Teichmann, O. R., Eburne, British Columbia
LAC. Thompson, W. R., Bathurst, New Brunswick
LAC. Wake, J. I. A., Winnipeg, Manitoba
LAC. Wheaton, D. H., Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
end of invitation
Information on 437 squadron taken from National Defence web site
The RCAF did not form its own transport squadrons until the late summer of 1944 when three transport squadrons were formed overseas: two transport squadrons to operate in South-East Asia and one to operate in north-west Europe. No. 437 Squadron was initially employed in towing Horsa gliders taking part in the airborne assault on Arnhem and the crossing of the Rhine at Wesel. After the German surrender, No. 437 Squadron moved to Belgium where it conducted airlift operations throughout the European continent from Norway to Greece.
The third unit, No. 437 Squadron, began operations almost immediately, towing gliders for the airborne landing at Arnhem in September 1944. In the months that followed, its Dakotas dropped supplies and ferried troops, equipment, ammunition, and gasoline to continental bases, returning with casualties and VIPs. In March 1945, the Squadron again towed gliders for the Rhine crossing at Wesel and then resumed its routine ferrying work.
After the German surrender, No. 437 moved to the continent and extended its operations as far afield as Oslo, Vienna, Naples, and Athens. Its Aircraft brought home released prisoners of war and displaced civilians, carried food supplies for the relief of starving peoples of the once Nazi-occupied lands, and flew mail from home to Canadians scattered over the continent.
At the end of World War II the three Dakota squadrons teamed up in Europe to form a Wing until they were eventually disbanded between August 1945 and May 1946. Later these airmen became the backbone of Air Transport Command.
end of quote on 437 squadron
from http://www.pegasusarchive.org/arnhem/batt_437.htm
437 Squadron was by far the youngest member of 46 Group, it was formed at Blakehill Farm on the 4th September 1944, but did not officially come into operation until two days before Operation Market Garden. It then had the distinction of being the only Royal Canadian Air Force squadron in Transport Command.
Arnhem
The Squadron at first consisted of just fifteen Dakotas, which had obtained from a variety of sources, and twelve of these were deployed during the First Lift of Market Garden, with each aircraft towing a Horsa glider. One of these had to abort the mission and return to base, but the flight was otherwise uneventful and the remainder returned safely after releasing their gliders. A further four glider towing sorties were completed over the following days, thereafter the Squadron participated in resupply operations to the troops at Arnhem.
On Thursday 21st September, the air forces suffered their cruelest losses, not merely due to intense fire from the anti-aircraft guns on the ground, but also to a number of Luftwaffe aircraft which caused havoc amongst the unescorted, slow and unarmoured transports. 437 Squadron had ten of its Dakotas in the air on this day, but only four of these returned to base. Four were shot down over Arnhem, the crew of another bailed out, whilst the sixth made a successful crash landing. Another loss was to come, on Saturday 23rd September, Flying Officer Paget's Dakota was shot down, killing all four aircrew and four RASC despatchers aboard.
In all, not including the four killed despatchers previously mentioned, the Battle of Arnhem had claimed the lives of twelve aircrew, and a further four were taken prisoner. The Squadron's gallantry during this costly baptism of fire was recognised, however; two Distinguished Flying Crosses and a Distinguished Flying Medal were awarded.
The Recovery
The losses were soon replaced, and thereafter the Squadron assumed the day-to-day duties of 46 Group, flying freight and passengers to the front line and bringing wounded men back to where they could receive proper medical treatment. The Allies dominated the skies at this time, so there was little else to trouble the crews during these flights other than the state of the weather and the condition of the runways on which they landed. These points could be perilous; on the 24th October 1944, Flight Sergeant Schneider's Dakota left an airfield in Belgium during poor weather, and neither he nor his crew were seen again.
The shuttle service that 46 Group ran between England and the front line was extremely valuable in terms of the lives it saved and the supplies that it delivered. To assist them in this endeavour, 437 Squadron received a number of Anson aircraft in November. During the following month, Germany launched a major offensive through the Ardennes and the resupply flights intensified and continued without respite, if the weather allowed, until late January 1945.
The Rhine Crossing
On the 24th March, 437 Squadron returned to their original role of dropping and supplying airborne troops, by helping to transport the 6th Airborne Division to its various drop and landing zones around Hamminkeln, thereby securing a bridgehead across the Rhine. Twenty-four of their Dakotas were used during the first and only lift of the operation, each towing a Horsa carrying men and equipment of the 1st Royal Ulster Rifles. Anti-aircraft fire was very heavy and four of the aircraft received damaged, yet all made safe landings at their forward base at Nivelles, in Belgium. They remained here in anticipation of being called upon to carry out supply dropping sorties to the Division, however due to the rapid progress of the ground forces, further operations were deemed unnecessary and the Squadron returned to Blakehill Farm on the 26th March. Five Distinguished Service Crosses were awarded to the Squadron's aircrew for their conduct during the operation.
The Squadron resumed its usual shuttle service to the front line, but increasingly the return flights were not dedicated to flying the wounded home to British hospitals, but repatriating freed prisoners of war. On the 7th May 1945, the Squadron received orders to specialise in this task, and to facilitate this it moved back to Nivelles on a more permanent basis. Three days later Squadron Leader McVeigh landed in Oslo, in Norway, one of the first Allied aircraft to do so after the German surrender, tasked with transporting the Nazi peace delegation to Scotland.
Post-War
By June, the Squadron was operating from a number of bases. The main body was removed to Melsbroek, but six of its aircraft remained in Oslo, with further minor detachments at Odiham, in England, and Gatow, in Germany. For many servicemen, the end of the war naturally brought about a more relaxed atmosphere in their operations, but transport aircraft were needed like never before, and if anything the Squadron's work rate increased. They carried freight and passengers to destinations all over Europe; one of the more notable of the latter was "Lord Haw Haw", taken to England to face trial for his infamous Nazi propaganda broadcasts.
In September, 437 Squadron's headquarters was posted to Evère. While here, news was received that King George VI had approved their badge which depicted a Husky pulling a sledge; thereafter they became known as the Husky Squadron. Although a few of their more scattered elements remained at various bases around Europe, the majority were recalled to Odiham where they joined 435 and 436 Squadrons, collectively becoming 120 (RCAF) Transport Wing. The Squadron continued to fly freight, passengers and mail all over Europe until they carried out their last sortie on the 30th May 1946. On the 16th June, the Squadron was disbanded.
On the 1st October 1961, 437 Squadron was reformed at Trenton, Ontario, carrying out the various transport duties to Canadian forces in Europe that their predecessors would have been familiar with. The Huskies are still performing this role from Trenton today, under their proud motto, "Omnia Passim" (Anytime, Anywhere), carrying equipment, personnel and VIP's in support of the Canadian military, NATO, the United Nations and the Red Cross.
The information contain in this history has come from the article "No.437 Squadron Canadian Armed Forces", by Andrew Thomas. Thanks to Alan Hartley for his help.
end of article
Note: One of the DC-3 planes flown by 437 squadron ID FZ692 (OR) [John Simmonds flew this plane on at least once] is preserved at the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum in Hamilton which is still flown on occasion.
From the Military Service Recognition Book - Royal Canadian Legion, Saskatchewan Command
John Percy Simmonds WWII
John was born in North Battleford SK, on October 7, 1922. He enlisted in the Air Force [RCAF] as a pilot with 437th Squadron, serving in Bournemouth, South Cerney, Leicester, Croydon, Basingstoke, Brussels and [Buckebery,] Germany. He was discharged in 1945 {actually 1946], and received the War Medal, the Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and Clasp, and Overseas Medal. After his discharge, he farmed on the family farm. John passed away on June 20, 2001.
[I think he was discharged in 1946, not 1945. He was married in April 1946, in Wales wearing an RCAF uniform. If he was discharged in 1945, he would have returned to Canada in 1945, went to Wales in 1946 to marry, returned to Canada by himself, then Enid would have come to Canada later on a war bride ship. I don’t think it would have happened that way.]
Excerpts from Operations Records Book for No. 437 Squadron Royal Canadian Air Force
[Note: RAF Blakehill Farm opened in 1944 home to No. 46 Group RAF Transport Command. It was South West of Cricklade, Wiltshire.4 37 Squadron was based her September 1, 1944 to May 7, 1945.]
Formation Blakehill Farm September 4, 1944
There were three flights of 12 or 13 crews plus the Commanding officer and a another crew with I believe the 2nd in command
The Squadron had about 26 Dakotas with a few Ansons
At formation “B” Flight at Broadwell
As at 1st November, 1944 (and December 1, 1944), Blakehill Farm
“B” Flight
PILOT CAN.J.28308 F/O J.M. Byrnes
CO-PILOT CAN.J.41767 P/O J.P. Simmonds
NAV.B. CAN.J.38747 P/O K.W. Hunt
W/OP A.G. CAN.R.180020 F/S J.R. Chambers
[Note Byrnes had a different co-pilot in October]
Note in the first several days of October all crew members were listed, however this changed later in the month. Thus based on the crew list roster it is assumed J.P. Simmonds was the co-pilot.]
Note: B.58 was Melsbroek, Belgium, B.56 was Evere Belgium, B.75 was Nivelles, Belgium. Northolt is in NW London.
Aircraft Type and Number, Crew, Duty, time up, time down, details
[Note the aircraft Type was Dakota Mk. III, and later some Dakota IV’s unless otherwise stated]
November 2, 1944
FZ 610, F/O Byrnes and crew, Transport,0955, 1605, 4800 ils. mail to B.58. 19 stretcher cases, 4 walking casualties from B.58 to base
November 5, 1944
FZ 610, F/O Byrnes, Transport, 1335, 1320 [next day], 22 passengers from Northholt to B.58. Night stopped. 14 passengers from B.58 to Northolt.
November 9, 1944
FZ 610, F/O Byrnes, Transport, 0800, 1600, 6 aircraft carried 30, 022 lbs. freight from Bicester to B.58. 1 aircraft carried 21 casualties B.58 to Down Ampney, and 1 a/c carried 19 passenger to Northolt on return. Remainder came home empty.
November 20, 1944
Anson 199, F/O Byrnes, Transport, 1045, 1335, 2 passengers Northolt to Le Bourget-Dijon-LeBourget-Northolt. Night stopped at Le Bourget.
November 21, 1944
FZ 692, F/O Byrnes, Transport, 1045, 1335, 4982 lbs. freight base to B.77. Returned empty.
November 26, 1944
FZ 679, F/O Byrnes, Transport, 1300, 1255, 19 passengers Northolt to B.78. 3 passengers B.78 to B.58. Night stopped. 1 passenger ers B.58-Northolt
November 27, 1944
FZ 679, F/O Byrnes, 1005, 1850, 4621 lbs. freight Wing to A.54. 4588 lbs freight A.54 to A.68. Returned empty.
December 2, 1944
KG 565, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0810, 1725, Eight aircraft carried 39,650 lbs. ammunition to B.70 and returned with 111 passengers and kit to Perranporth.
December 5, 1944
FS 679, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0952, 1605, 22 passengers to B.78, 7 passengers B.78 to B.58, returned empty.
December 8, 1944
FZ 610, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), 0835, 1510, 5000 lbs. winter clothing from Ricester to B.38. Returned empty.
December 12, 1944
EG 412, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0920, 1639, 4142 lbs. equipment and 5 passengers and kit from Down Ampney to Lyons on 10.12.44. Returned to Croydon on 14.12.44 with 5100 lbs. equipment.
December 17, 1944
FZ 634, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0840, 1655, 4998 lbs. airforce freight from Bicester to B.58. Returned with 4500 lbs. equipment, 15 passengers and kit to Northolt.
December 18, 1944
FZ669, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0830, 1345, 4750 lbs. (19 passengers) from Warmwell to B.58. Returned with 18 passengers (4230 lbs) to Warmwell
December 30, 1944
ND 565, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), , Transport, 1010, 1700, 5000 lbs. emergency freight from base to B.70 and returned with 4328 lbs. mail unloaded at Down Ampney.
December 31, 1944
No Number stated, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), , Transport, 1000, 1600, 4950 lbs. freight to B.77. Returned empty.
January 1, 1945
FZ 694,F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transpoet, 1120, 1305 (Jan.2), Fourteen aircraft carried 82,965 lbs. of glycol and R.A.F. freight to B.75. One aircraft returned with 2 passengers to Northolt. 13 aircraft returned empty.
January 6, 1945
FZ 679?, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 1200, 1700, Thirteen aircraft 68,000 lbs. miscellaneous freight to B.75. One aircraft returned with 18 stretcher and 6 walking casualties from B.58 to Down Ampney. Two aircraft night stopped at B.75. Ten aircraft returned empty.
January 7, 1945
NG 394, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 1105, 1800, Thirteen aircraft carried mixed array freight (65,000 lbs.) to B.75. 9 a/c returned empty. [others returned with casualties, mail or passenger.]
January 9, 1945
NG 394, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, no up or down times, This aircraft held up at Northolt due to weather.
January 18, 1945
FZ 610, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 1015, 1515, Eleven aircraft carried 55,000 lbs. of aray? freight to B.75. Five returned empty on January 19. [Others returned January 19 passengers including POW’s]
January 21, 1945
FZ 600, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 1115, 1730, One aircraft carried 5000 lbs. R.A.F. stores to B.56 and returned with 30? passengers to Northolt.
January 27, 1945
FZ 610, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 1340, 1505, Carried 16 passengers from Northolt to B.58 and returned January 28 with 21 passengers to Northolt.
[At this point the up and down times changed from leaving Blakehill and returning to the airfield to all intermediate takeoffs and landings. I will give the full list for this one as an example then only list the first takeoff and last landing.]
February 3, 1945
Anson NL 199 NY, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 1254, Northolt 1438, 1552, B.56 1705, 1306, A.54 1436, 0922, Kenley 1050, 1140, 1216, One Anson carried 3 passengers from Northolt on Jan. 29 to B.56 and A.54 and returned vis Kenley on Feb 3.
February 5, 1945
KG 565 DK, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 1000, 1700, Eight aircraft carried 153 passengers and kit to B.57 via Thorney Island. One aircraft KG 409 on this run crashed at Thorney Island. Crew baled out safely. All eight aircraft returned empty.{?]
February 9, 1945
ED 565 DK, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0730, 1130, Twelve aircraft carried 218 troops and one passenger to B.75. All aircraft returned empty.
[Also did a 45 minute formation exercise this day]
February 10, 1945
FZ 694 DF, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0935, 1325, Eleven aircraft carried 211 army troops to B.75. 10 returned empty.
February 11, 1945
FG 694 DP F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, , 0905, 1650, One aircraft carried 30 passengers and kit to B.75 and returned empty via Manston
[February 16 more training in formation flying.]
February 27, 1944
F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 1010, 1740, 3002 lbs. army freight to B.75 and returned with 20 army personel to Northolt.
February 28, 1945
KG 565 DK, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0905, 1425, 4658 lbs. of R.A.F.equipment to B.75 and returned with 34 passengers to Northolt.
March 1, 1945
KN 261 DN F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, , 0750, 1945, 5 aircraft carried 99 Canadian Troops and to Istres and all returned empty.
March 2, 1945
KN 261 DN F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, , 1130, 1720, Fifteen aircraft carried 75,000 lbs. army freight to B.75. Fourteen aircraft returned empty.
March 5, 1945
F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, Two aircraft carried 10,000 lbs. of signal equipment to B.56 on March 4th and returned empty on March 5.
March 6, 1945
FZ 692, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0815, 1420, Carried 5000 lbs. to A.C.G. stores to B.75 and returned with 4056 lbs. of captured enemy signals equipment and 2 passengers to Northolt from B.75
March 7, 1945. Training
F/0 Byrnes tested FZ 694 for radar equipment and also flew KN 256 to Down Ampney, Hendon and return.
March 10, 1945. Training
F/O Byrnes airtested KN 981
March 11, 1945
FZ 669 DQ, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0700, 1735, made 2 lifts, on first lift carried 5000 lbs. army freight to B.56 and returned empty, on 2nd lift carried 4982 lbs. of army freight to B.56 and returned empty.
March 12, 1945
KN 256 DL, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 1135, 1739, returned with 14 personnel to Honnington from B.75
March 14, 1945. Training
No operations were carried ou today, due to a Balco in which seventeen squadron aircraft and crews participated - Exercise Vulture IV.
March 16, 1944 Training
F/O Wells and F/O Byrnes each completed two special glider tugs from base using KG 594 and KG 565
March 17, 1945
KG 412 NT, F/O J.M. Byrnes (C): F/O J.P. Simmonds (2P): F/O K.S.Hunt (N): W/O L.R. Chambers (W), Transport, 0930, 225, Made 2 lifts, on first carried 19 personnel to B.71 via Blackbush and returned empty, on 2nd lift carried 18 army personnel and kit to B.75 and returned to Fairwood Common from B.83 with 18 R.A.F. personnel. [Tey made 7 takeoffs and 7 landings that day!]
March 18, 1945 Training.
F/O Byrnes airtested KN 21
March 20, 1945 Training.
F/O Byrnes flew KN 281 to Birch and return.
March 21, 1945 Operations
26 squadron crews proceed to Birch today to remain there to operate on Exercise Varsity at such time is ordered. All crews proceeding to Birch gave their respective aircraft a thorough air test during the day.
March 24, 1945. Operations
Glider Operation Varsity was carried out today. 24 crews participated (9 “A” Flight brews, 6 “B” Flight Crews , 7 “C” Flight crews. Two crews acted as standby crews. Upon completion of Operation, all crews returned to B.75 to standby for possible re-supply mission. The operation was successfully completed without loss of aircraft or injury to any personel. [from later entry] 230 personnel of 1st Ulter Rifles, their jeeps and other equipment. [Byrnes flew on that operation but had a different co-pilot. Presumably John Simmonds was selected to become a captain of a plane and was to be sent for training.]
March 26, 1945
Officers - Postings out P/O J.P.Simmonds, Pilot, to 106 O.T.U. [Operational Training Unit]
May 8, 1945
Victory in Europe Day
Now the Squadron is at Brussels-Melsbroak
July, 1945 [No day given]
Officers - Postings to the Squadron, J.41767 F/O J.P. Simmonds [now promoted Flying Officer today Lieutenant]
July 22, 1945
DU KN 269, F/O J.P. Simmonds (C): W/O R. Laidlaw (2P): F/O R.E. Rose (N): F/O E.L. Barby (W), Transport, 0814, 1815, Empty to B.56, 18 passengers to Northolt, 16 passengers to B.56, 15 Passengers to Y.56, 3 passengers to B.56, empty to B.58
July 23, 1945
DS KG 577, F/O J.P. Simmonds (C): W/O I.A. Cousins (2P): F/O R.E. Rose (N): F/O E.L. Barby (W), Transport, 0410, 1632, Empty to B.61, 2000 lbs. yeast to Y.94, 1000 lbs. yeast to R.14, empty to B156, 800 lbs. yeast to Gladow, 9 passengers, 12 casualties and 3 ex. P.O.W. to B.56, empty to B.58
July 24, 1945
DU KN 269, F/O J.P. Simmonds (C): W/O R. Laidlaw (2P): F/O R.E. Rose (N): F/O E.L. Barby (W), Transport, 1512, July 25 1509, Empty to B.56, 22 passengers to B168, 16 passenges to R158, 8 passenegrs to B168, 20 passenegrs to B.56, empty to B.58.
July 26, 1945
DS ED 577, F/O J.P. Simmonds (C): W/O I.A. Cousins (2P): F/O R.E. Rose (N): F/O E.L. Barby (W), Transport, 0604, July 27 1720, Empty to B.56, 24 passengers to B151, 27 passengers to B158, 21 passengers to B164, 20 passengers to B150, 20 passengers to B151, 20 passengers to B.56, empty to B.58.
Some of the squadron moved to Oslo (Fornebu) and some to Oldiham but not John Simmonds
at this point most trips seem to be round trip passenger flights or yeast with stops on the route.
August 5, 1945 ODOY KG 595, same crew
August 7, 1945 ODOS FZ 639, same crew
August 8, 1945 ODOS FZ 639, same crew
September 5, 1945 ODOW KN 279 , same crew
September 6, 1945, ODON NG 425, same crew
…
The last regular flight shown in the records was May 31, 1946, ???45 OPAF
June 16, 1946
FE6212 CFAP, F/O S/L Sanderson N.C: F/L Simmonds J.P.: P/OGilchrist E.D.: F/O Mitchell F.C., Flyback, Odiham 0900, 4 passengers
With the departure of the remaining 7 aircraft, led by S/L B.C. Miller, the squadron has disbanded.
End of excepts
Note Unless otherwise indicated, the list of operations do not include training such as glider tugging, dropping panniers, air tests of aircraft, weather checks, etc. Also there were days when the squadron could not operate due to the weather.
Notes for Enid May (Spouse 1)
England and Wales Birth Index
Enid M. Jones registered in the April to June 1922, Bedwelty district, Monmouthshire, mother’s maiden name Leaves, volume 11a, page 262.
{Enid let on she was born in 1923 instead on 1922 to make her a few months younger than her husband rather than a few months older.]
Grew up in a village by the name of Ynysmaerdy [near Talbot Green and Pontyclun], Rhondda Cynon Taff, Wales. After completing school worked in the nearby village of Talbot Green. Served in WWII as a driver. (Leading Airwoman Service Number 472674 Women's Royal Air Force) In September 1946 immigrated to Canada on a War Bride Ship.
In the April to June 1946 England and Wales marriage index John P. Simmonds and Enid M. Jones, Bridgend district, Glamorgan, volume 11a page 1511.
From the Military Service Recognition Book - Royal Canadian Legion, Saskatchewan Command
Enid May Simmonds (Jones) WWII
Enid was born in Wales in 1923. She joined the British Airforce WAAF in 1942, and served in the UK, Gloucester, Compton, Bassett, Pembray and South Cerney. She returned to farm with her husband, John, at Speers. Enid passed away on May 14, 1999. She was a member of the Speers Branch #116 for 54 years.
Enid M. Jones registered in the April to June 1922, Bedwelty district, Monmouthshire, mother’s maiden name Leaves, volume 11a, page 262.
{Enid let on she was born in 1923 instead on 1922 to make her a few months younger than her husband rather than a few months older.]
Grew up in a village by the name of Ynysmaerdy [near Talbot Green and Pontyclun], Rhondda Cynon Taff, Wales. After completing school worked in the nearby village of Talbot Green. Served in WWII as a driver. (Leading Airwoman Service Number 472674 Women's Royal Air Force) In September 1946 immigrated to Canada on a War Bride Ship.
In the April to June 1946 England and Wales marriage index John P. Simmonds and Enid M. Jones, Bridgend district, Glamorgan, volume 11a page 1511.
From the Military Service Recognition Book - Royal Canadian Legion, Saskatchewan Command
Enid May Simmonds (Jones) WWII
Enid was born in Wales in 1923. She joined the British Airforce WAAF in 1942, and served in the UK, Gloucester, Compton, Bassett, Pembray and South Cerney. She returned to farm with her husband, John, at Speers. Enid passed away on May 14, 1999. She was a member of the Speers Branch #116 for 54 years.