Stapleton served in the Second World War in East Africa, the Middle East, North Africa and Italy. He was promoted to the substantive rank of flight lieutenant on 3 September 1940, by which time he was an acting squadron leader with 14 Squadron and during this time was awarded the DFC. Flew Wellesley and Blenheim bombers. After the war he was appointed AOC of 1 (bomber) Group which flew Vulcan bombers
He was the brother of Battle of Britain ace Gerald 'Stapme' Stapleton DFC
He died on 16 February 2018 at the age of 100.
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/obituari...eton-obituary/