Flight Lieutenant David Ernest Hornell, V.C. Plaque

FLIGHT LIEUTENANT DAVID ERNEST HORNELL, V.C.
1910 - 1944

Born in Toronto and educated in Mimico, Hornell enlisted with
the Royal Canadian Air Force on January 8, 1941. He was
commissioned Pilot Officer later that year. On June 24, 1944,
while serving with 162 Squadron and stationed at Wick in
northern Scotland, Hornell was on anti-submarine patrol in a
twin-engined CANSO when he and his eight man crew sighted
and attacked a German submarine. Heavy enemy fire quickly
crippled the aircraft but Hornell persevered with skill and
determination until the submarine had been destroyed. For
his bravery during this action and the subsequent ordeal
after abandoning the aircraft, Hornell was awarded the Victoria
Cross, the British Commonwealth’s highest award for valour.
He died soon after being rescued.

Erected by the Ontario Heritage Foundation, Ministry of Culture and Recreation