Flt Lt Terry Taerum, DFC
Terry Taerum played a key role in the Dambuster bombing runs of the Second World War. The raid on Ruhr River dams in mid-May 1943 cemented Taerum in history. His Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) citation reads:
“On the night of the 16th May, 1943, a force of Lancaster bombers was detailed to attack the Moehne, Eder and Sorpe dams in Germany. The operation was one of great difficulty and hazard, demanding a high degree of skill and courage and close co-operation between the crews of the aircraft engaged. Nevertheless, a telling blow was struck at the enemy by the successful breaching of the Moehne and Eder dams. This outstanding success reflects the greatest credit on the efforts of the above mentioned personnel who participated in the operation, in various capacities as members of aircraft crew.”
Sadly, a few months later Taerum and crew were shot down while on another Dambuster run. None survived.
Read about Harlo “Terry” Taerum in much more detail at Bomber Command Museum.ca.
Torger Taerum (Credit: Bomber Command Museum via Veterans.gc.ca.).
Educators: Click here for a Lesson Plan that explores Taerum’s story.
Main photo: Taerum (on right) boarding with his crew (Credit: BomberCommandMuseum.ca).