Flight Lieutenant Peter Isaacson
Peter Isaacson was sent to Canada for training under the Empire Air Training Scheme. He graduated in September 1941 and was sent to Britain, where he joined No. 460 Squadron. This unit would come to be regarded as the most efficient Australian squadron of Bomber Command.
Flying heavy bombers over Germany and occupied Europe, Peter was able to accurately bomb his targets, manoeuvre out of search lights, dodge anti-aircraft fire, and escape enemy planes. He was later awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal for leadership and courage in successful operations against the enemy. In 1943 Peter moved to Pathfinder Force, in which the best and most experienced crews would fly ahead of the bombers to identify their targets.
Many dangerous operations followed for Peter and his crew. On 1 March 1943, their plane was severely damaged by anti-aircraft gun fire. With a wounded crew member and facing constant gun fire and persistent searchlights, Peter managed to regain control of the aircraft and bring the bomber home. For his calmness and skill under pressure he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for a second time.
Learn more about Peter Isaacson here.
Activities
1. Read more about heavy bomber aircrews. What skills would successful airmen need in order to serve as part of Bomber Command?
2. Below is an enlistment poster aimed at encouraging men to join the RAAF Air Training Corps. How is the man portrayed in this poster? Why?
Walter Lacy Jardine, Join the RAAF Air Training Corps and learn a man’s job (c. 1939–45, colour photolithograph on gloss paper, 26 x 32 cm, AWM ARTV04254)
- The Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force (WAAAF) was formed in March 1941 after considerable lobbying by women who were keen to serve. Artist Walter Jardine designed RAAF enlistment posters targeting men (above) and women (below). Is this woman portrayed in the same manner as the man in the above RAAF poster? Why has the Australian flag been placed in the background?
Walter Lacy Jardine, Keep them flying! (c.1942, offset lithograph on paper, 24.8 x 31.3 cm, AWM ARTV01114)
Related objects
References
Australian War Memorial, “The Royal Australian Air Force, Women's Auxiliary Australian Air Force (WAAAF) and Women's Royal Australian Air Force (WRAAF)” https://www.awm.gov.au/learn/understanding-military-structure/raaf/waaaf accessed 20 July 2020.