Name: |
FROST |
Given Name: |
JOHN EVERITT |
Initials: |
J E |
Service No: |
P/102641 |
Rank: |
MajorOther Casualties of this Rank |
Regiment: |
South African Air Force |
Unit: |
5 Sqdn.Other Casualties from this Unit |
Date of Death: |
1942-06-16Other Casualties on this
Date |
Date of Birth: |
1918-07-16 |
Age: |
23 |
Cause of Death: |
Killed in action, Curtiss Tomahawk Mk IIB #AM422, shot down while escorting bombers over the El Adem. Possibly shot down by Gunther Steinhausen, who was credited with 40 victories, east of El Adem |
Decorations: |
D F C and bar, Mentioned in Despatches |
Citations: |
LG 25 February 1941 pg. 1155 - "In February, 1941, whilst on patrol covering a distance of 180 miles inside enemy territory, this officer attacked n enemy bomber on the ground, at Afmadu, and destroyed it. The next day, he intercepted a formation of three enemy bombers escorted by two fighters, which were attacking our ground forces. He immediately attacked the bombers, two of which lost height rapidly and crashed. Captain Frost was then himself engaged by the fighters. he destroyed one, drove the other off, and then shot down the remaining bomber. He displayed great courage, skill and determination against a superior number of enemy forces." Bar to DFC LG Sup 27 July 1943 pg. 5383 - "For gallantry and devotion to duty in the execution of air operations."; MID LG Sup 1 January 1942 pg. 47 |
Additional
Information: |
Son of Richard H. and Ada M. Frost, of Germiston, Transvaal, South Africa; husband of Francesca Whitfield Frost, of "Mon Desir", Third Avenue, Rivonia, Transvaal. Born Winterberg, near Queenstown. Joined the South African Permanent force in 1936 and after a spell as a flying instructor was posted to 1 Squadron SAAF in 1939. In 1940 he was posted to the newly-formed 3 Squadron SAAF as a flight commander and saw considerable action in Somaliland and Ethiopia. Given command of 5 Squadron SAAF in July 1941. He led the unit through the heavy fighting in Egypt in May and June 1942. Jack Frost shot down at least 15 enemy aircraft and was SAAF top scorer of the war. Regarded as an outstanding pilot and leader. |
This information was last verified for accuracy: 2021-08-02
