Photo source unknown

The Distinguished Flying Cross was a RAF award bestowed upon Officers and Warrant Officers for an act or acts of valour, courage, or devotion to duty performed whilst flying in active operations against the enemy. It was first awarded in 1918. Prior to 1972 Canada did not have its own system of medals for bravery, and so, like other Commonwealth countries, Canada  relied on the British System of medals  and awards. 

The selection and award of the DFC left a bitter taste in the mouths of Typhoon pilots as recorded in the 541 for the 28 April,1944. "Generally speaking, it is considered throughout the Airfield that more gongs went to Bomber Command types than 2nd TAF. The rumour is that tour expired pilots of Bomber Command are automatically or almost automatically awarded a DFC whereas the only awards made here are to Squadron and Flight Commanders with only one exception. 

One argument for an increase in gongs in this theatre of operations is based on the fact that a very small percentage of Typhies finish a tour in view of the continuous hazardous flak on practically every operation. An approximate illustration to support this  is shown hereunder, taking into consideration 68 pilots who have been posted to the Squadron, excluding the 27 at present on strength:

25 percent -  finished tour ( 3 pilots killed & 1 believed killed since)

38:23 percent  -  killed or believed killed.

7:35 percent  -  missing

10:29 percent  -  prisoners of war

7:35 percent  - posted due to injuries."