Georges JASPIS. 609 (West Riding) Squadron Royal Auxiliary Air Force. 1943-1944
Flying Officer Georges 'Poupa' Jaspis 1943 - 44 (Belgium)
Extract, credit The Golden Falcon.
On November 12, 2006, the commemoration of the Armistice and the birthday-homage of Georges JASPIS took place in Malèves-Ste-Marie (Municipality of Perwez). After the religious Office, George JASPIS was driven aboard an ancient vehicle (jeep) to the Municipal House where the various authorities honored him and handed him presents. Then, a glass of friendship was offered to all of the people present. This sympathetic demonstration was organized by the Grouping of Patriotic Associations of the entity of Perwez chaired by Mr J. - L. Lengelé and the Communal College.
Brief biography
Georges 'Poupa' Jaspis was born on November 11th, 1916 at Opprebais (Municipality of Perwez). Fascinated by the aviation, he commits to the Belgian Military Aviation on September 1st, 1938 (78th promotion). On May 15th, 1939 he obtains his military pilot's licence. Based at Gossoncourt he participates in the Campaign of May, 1940. On March 1st, 1942, he escapes from occupied Belgium (Comet network) and, via France, Spain and Portugal; he arrives in England at Poole, by plane, on April 22nd, 1942 and enlists in the RAF VR. After a short training, he is assigned to 609 Squadron where he carries out two tours of operations. After the war, he makes his career in Sabena and he stays in its service for 33 years.
He died 14th December 2007 aged 91. Funeral of George JASPIS, D.F.C. will take place in Saint Aubin church in Opprebais, on wednesday, 10:30 AM.
He is commemorated on a memorial plaque on the Royal Auxiliary Air Force Memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum, Alrewas, Staffordshire.
