Royal Canadian Air Force Overseas.

22nd February 1945.

Dear Mrs. Patzer:

Before you receive this letter you will have had a telegram to inform you that your son, F/O Edwin Frederick Patzer has been reported missing as a result of air operations.

It is with regret that I write to you this date to convey the feeling of my entire Squadron. On the night of the 20th February 1945 Edwin and his crew took off from this airfield to carry out a bombing attack on Monheim, Germany, and were due to return shortly after 4 o’clock the following morning. Unfortunately, their aircraft has not returned and nothing has been heard from any member of the crew since the time of take off.

There is the possibility that your son is a prisoner of war and if such is the case, you will hear from him direct or through the Air Ministry, who will receive advice from the International Red Cross Society. I share your hopes that this may in fact be the case.

Edwin was a capable pilot and in twenty nine operational trips over enemy territory had proven himself to be well qualified to captain one of our best crews. He was popular on the Squadron and had made a number of friends here. His comrads miss him very much and his loss is regretted by all.

May I express the sympathy which all of us feel with you in your present anxiety and at the same time voice the hope that better news will be forthcoming soon.

Yours very sincerely,

“S. Minhinnick”

Squadron Leader, Commanding

No. 432 (R.C.A.F) Squadron.