Edward “Ted” G. Southern

Leading Aircraftman
Royal Canadian Air Force

Service Summary

Edward “Ted” G. Southern served in the Royal Canadian Air Force from 1941 to 1945. Prior to enlistment, he worked as a motor mechanic in Chater, Manitoba.

Wartime Experience

From January to April 1945, Japan launched incendiary balloon bombs, known as Fugo balloons, toward North America using Pacific air currents.

Ted was deployed to northern British Columbia and the Yukon to help locate and extinguish fires started by these devices.

This wartime threat remained largely secret from the Canadian public for many years.

Post-Service Life

Ted returned to civilian life following the war.

Medals & Honours

• Canadian Volunteer Service Medal