F/O E. F. Charles was born in Coventry, England and raised in Lashburn, Canada. He applied to join RAF in 1937 and took Provisional Pilot Officer training with the RCAF at Trenton. He was described by F/Lt. D. A. R. Bradshaw on 18th January 1939 as "Above average. He flies accurately & with confidence on instruments."
His graduation was delayed five months after he crashed a Tiger Moth (246), on 9th August 1938, while attempting a forced landing approach in a strange field, resulting in injuries. He was authorised to wear wings from 23 February, 1939, and remained with the RCAF until 3rd May, 1939, when he went to Britain to join RAF.

Edward was repatriated to Canada on 9th November, 1944, and remained in post-war RCAF (19505, reverted to Squadron Leader on 1st October 1946) until 31st May, 1950, having spent most of his time on air transport duties at St.Hubert and in No.426 Squadron.
Edward Charles died in Vancouver on 5th November, 1986.

CHARLES, F/O Edward Francis John (36198) - Distinguished Flying Cross - No.54 Sq.
Awarded as per London Gazette dated 15th July, 1941.

This officer has displayed exceptional zeal and immense enthusiasm during the many offensive sweeps carried out by his unit. He has destroyed at least three enemy aircraft.

CHARLES, S/L Edward Francis John (36198) - Bar to DFC
Awarded as per London Gazette dated 15th July, 1943, and
AFRO 1949/43 dated 24th September, 1943.

This officer is a first class fighter whose fine leadership, cool judgment and efficiency have set an admirable example. He has destroyed thirteen enemy aircraft and damaged several more.

CHARLES, S/L Edward Francis John (36198) - Silver Star (U.S.)
Awarded as per London Gazette dated 20th July, 1943, and
AFRO 2049/43 dated 8th October, 1943.
Public Record Office Air 2/9599 has citation as published in
General Order No.104 Eighth Air Force, 16th July, 1943.

For gallantry in action while escorting United States Army Air Force bombers on ten bombardment missions over enemy occupied territory. Squadron Leader Charles has led his squadron brilliantly and with utter disregard for his own personal safety. His actions on all these occasions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the armed forces of His Majesty's government.

CHARLES, W/C Edward Francis John (36198) - Distinguished Service Order
Awarded as per London Gazette dated 29th October, 1943, and
AFRO 2457/43 dated 26th November, 1943.
 Described him as a Canadian in the RAF. Air Ministry Bulletin 4508 refers:

Wing Commander Charles is an inspiring leader whose great skill and tenacity have contributed materially to the successes obtained by the formations with which he has flown. In September, 1943, he led a formation of fighters which acted as escort to a bomber force detailed to attack an airfield in northern France. During the operations twelve enemy fighters were engaged and in the ensuing combat four of the hostile aircraft were shot down, one of them by Wing Commander Charles. This officer, who has destroyed at least fifteen enemy aircraft, has displayed great courage and unflagging devotion to duty.

Courtsey of Hugh Halliday (Air Force Association of Canada)