Fg Off T L Van Ripper 143 Sqn

[Chris Goss]

Does anyone have any career details about this pilot who was with the Sqn mid-1943?

[AUS_RAAF]

Hi Chris,

The ORB lists him as Lt T.L. Van Riper during October and November 1943 which suggest USAAF? Could be this man lost during Korean War?

https://dpaa-mil.sites.crmforce.mil/...000000HsDaXEAV

Some possible leads for WWII service in this booklet.

https://www.cayugacounty.us/Document...al-Booklet-PDF

Hope this helps.

regards, Drew

[Chris Goss]

Thanks Drew. A number of USAAF pilots flew with 143 Sqn so this looks spot on. Many thanks

[AUS_RAAF]

No problems Chris. The 143 Sqn ORB is surprisingly vague on details for Van Riper compared to other aircrew on the unit. Looks like he was only with them until end of 1943. Maybe ended up with a USAAF squadron or another Coastal RAF squadron? Could be some clues with the other USAAF aircrew attached to 143 and their later service. Good luck with finding more details.

regards, Drew

[Leendert]

Could very well be Thomas L. Van Riper. Date of award suggests Korean War.
See https://catalog.archives.gov/id/1469...ect-thumb--901

Regards, Leendert

[Leendert]

It appears he was in the US in April 1944: https://catalog.archives.gov/id/4683...ect-thumb--860

Leendert

[richard.k]

Chris. There is a TL Van Riper that held a RCAF service number J-13326
Regards, Richard

[Leendert]

And finally a clipping with his varied career: https://www.newspapers.com/article/d...mis/163476974/

Leendert

[Chris Goss]

Thanks all-a most interesting person