Lt MT Ackerman

Not at Home for Christmas

Seconded SAAF No 630 Squadron pilot, Lt MT Ackerman DFC flying Lancaster NG123U on May 4th appears to have been the only South African bomber pilot who participated in “Operation Exodus” flying “POW’s” out of Lubeck 9. An emotional journey, punctuated by reaching the English coast, landing at an RAF Base, disinfectant dusting preceding the WAAF welcome, tea, real food, completing a “Top Secret Questionnaire” and “Security Undertaking”, a call home with some, spending time in the Medical Rehabilitation Unit and although their accrued pay created a sense of instant wealth, that, was no compensation for the time behind barbed wire.

SAAF Airmen in RAF Squadrons

Twenty- three of those seconded airmen were awarded the “Distinguished Flying Cross”. Captain GF Kaufmann, earned his award prior to flying No 182 Squadron Typhoons and six Lancaster pilots including No Lt MT Ackerman a No 630 Squadron pilot who earned an immediate award and played rugby for England in” Services Internationals”