RICHARD STOWERS CHRONICLES THE EXPLOITS OF NEW ZEALAND STIRLING PILOT FRASER BARRON
Within three years Fraser Distinguished Service Order (DSO) and Bar, Distinguished Flying Cross and Distinguished Flying Medal. This made him one of New Zealand’s most decorated airmen of World War Two. Only 55 members of the Royal New Zealand Air Force were presented with the DSO. Barron was one of four granted a Bar to his DSO, the only time this honour was bestowed upon a ‘Kiwi’ in Bomber Command.
Barron was an outstanding master bomber, whose skill, bravery, determination and complete disregard for his personal safety were legendary. He became frustrated when taken off operations, bored with being an instructor, and was forever keen to get back to his unit.
The risks of night raids, like flak and fighters, never affected Barron. He mentally prepared himself before each ‘op’ and took comfort in the knowledge that he was not alone with his fears. Barron sought the companionship and trust of his own crew, always concerned about their welfare and safety.
After completing his training, Flt Sgt Barron joined 15 Squadron at Wyton, Cambridgeshire, on June 24, 1941. The unit was only the second in Bomber Command to be equipp…
