Rogers, George Clarence

George Rogers was born on September 21, 1892 in Brandon, Manitoba to parents Mr. and Mrs. Elias Rogers. His father was the president of the Crows Nest Coal & Coke Company and also held extensive lumber interests in Barrie, Ontario. Just prior to the war, George had moved to Lethbridge, Alberta where he was employed as a clerk at the Bank of Nova Scotia. When war broke out, he traveled east and completed an aviation course. On November 6, 1914, George Rogers enlisted with the 30th Battalion CEF. Lance Corporal Rogers proceeded directly to France and upon his arrival on May 4, 1915 was taken on strength by the 7th Battalion CEF. He served with distinction on the frontlines in France and Belgium for a total of 18 months, rising to the rank of Lieutenant. On November 21, 1916, Lieutenant Rogers realized his dream when he was taken into the ranks of the 52nd Squadron of the Royal Flying Corps and commissioned with the rank of Flying Lieutenant. A very capable aviator, Flying Lieutenant Rogers performed observational duties and range finding missions for various BEF artillery batteries. He was also believed to have been the flyer responsible for bringing down the famous German fighter pilot Immelman “The Falcon”. In August 1917, he was promoted to Captain and a month later, he received the Military Cross for bravery. On October 27, 1917, while flying over enemy lines, Captain Rogers came under heavy fire and was severely wounded. He managed to bring his badly damaged plane back 20 miles to his airfield and land safely. On October 30, 1917, Captain Rogers succumbed to his wounds. He was laid to rest at Zuydcoote Military Cemetery. In addition to the Military Cross, George Rogers received the 1914/15 Star, British War Medal and Victory Medal. His mother received the Memorial Cross and death plaque in honour of her son