Arthur Wilson

Flying Officer (Pilot)
Royal Canadian Air Force

Service Summary

Arthur Wilson came to Erickson, Manitoba, at the age of fifteen from the drought-stricken “Dust Bowl” region near Frobisher, Saskatchewan. He later worked for Roy Londry in the Rapid City area before farming on his own. He married Ida Londry in October 1938.

In 1941, Arthur enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force as an Air Frame Mechanic.

He completed technical training at St. Thomas Technical School before remustering to aircrew and later graduating as a Pilot.

Wartime Experience

Arthur was first stationed in the Toronto area and flew submarine patrol missions over the Gulf of St. Lawrence region.

Later posted overseas to the United Kingdom, he flew Lancaster bombers on numerous operational raids over Germany.

He served with No. 6 Bomber Command in North Yorkshire, east of Leeds.

Arthur safely completed all wartime operations and returned to Canada in 1946.

Post-Service Life

After discharge, Arthur returned to farming and continued flying privately, often flying northern routes with Bob McNabb.

Following retirement, he remained active in community service, including driving the handi-van.

He was instrumental in helping establish the Basswood Legion and later transferred to Royal Canadian Legion Branch #138 in Minnedosa.

Arthur also served as President of the Basswood Legion and Rotary Club and received the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow Award from Rotary International.

Arthur passed away in Minnedosa on December 9, 1993, at age 73, and was interred at Sidney Cemetery.

Medals & Honours

• Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and Clasp

• Defence Medal

• War Medal 1939–45

• Paul Harris Fellow Award