W/Cmdr D. G. Andrews was born on 5th September, 1921.
Donald enlisted at the Initial Flight Training School at Bradfield Park on 8th November, 1940, and upon completion went to the Elementary Flying Training School in Nerrandera. He left Australia in March, 1941, to join a Service Training School in Canada a month later.

Donald went on to the OTU at Camp Borden in June, and on 4th November was posted to 615 Squadron, and then on to 245 Squadron on 16th December, where he was promoted to Flying Officer.

On 18th July, 1942, Donald was posted to 175 Squadron as Acting Flight Lieutenant.

On 20th December, Donald joined 453 Squadron where he rose through the rank of Acting Squadron Leader (28/09/43) to Squadron Leader (01/01/45) and then to Acting Wing Commander (24/01/45).
On 24th February, Donald went to the Australian Spitfire Wing at RAF Coltishall.