Clifford Neil McManus

Flying Officer, Bombardier / Navigator
Royal Canadian Air Force

Service Summary

Clifford Neil McManus joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in August 1942 at the age of 21. After basic training in Brandon and wartime education upgrading in Winnipeg, he advanced through bombing and navigation training schools across Canada.

He received his commission as Pilot Officer and later qualified as a Navigator/Bombardier.

Wartime Experience

Clifford deployed overseas in April 1944 aboard the Empress of Scotland.

After advanced operational training in England, he joined No. 432 Squadron flying Halifax bombers.

He completed 31 operational missions over Germany, including raids on:

• Düsseldorf

• Cologne

• Hanover

• Hamburg

• Dortmund

• Mannheim

• Münster

• Stuttgart

His first mission included fire aboard the aircraft and total radio failure, yet the crew completed the bombing run and returned safely.

Post-Service Life

After returning to Canada, Clifford studied Agriculture and later farmed in the Basswood area.

He married Muriel Stitt in 1950.

He was a Life Member of the Legion and enjoyed curling and baseball.

Medals & Honours

• Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and Clasp

• Defence Medal

• France and Germany Star

• 1939–45 Star

• War Medal 1939–45

• Bomber Command Medal

• Operational Wings