Russell, Joseph Vincent (Flight Lieutenant)

15 Squadron (Aim Sure). Lancaster aircraft LM 456 missing from a trip to Stuttgart, Germany, Pilot Officer W. Forrest and three of the crew, not Canadians, were also killed. Two of the crew, not Canadians, taken Prisoners of War. The following was recorded in CANADA'S WEEKLY of October 28, 1943. "CONSPICUOUS GALLANTRY MEDAL (FLYING) - Can/R120651 Flight Sergeant Joseph Vincent Russell, R.C.A.F., No. 15 Sqdn. (Lisburn, Ireland, and Saskatchewan). One night in October, 1943, this airman piloted an aircraft detailed to attack Kassel. Whilst making his bombing run the aircraft was subjected to heavy fire from ground defences, but Flight Sergeant Russell held to his course and executed his bombing attack. Almost immediately the aircraft was repeatedly hit by machine-gun fire from a fighter. Extensive damage was sustained, causing the bomber to become difficult to control, but, displaying superb airmanship, Flight Sergeant Russel flew the crippled bomber to an airfield in this country. Although almost exhausted by his efforts, he succeeded in effecting a safe landing. This airman displayed outstanding courage and tenacity."