Yearly honored pilot in U.K. town sparks debate on Canadian recognition for his valor.
In a sleepy British town, a street bears the name of an unsung Canadian hero - William Stuart McMullen. This 29-year-old pilot was a savior during World War II, sacrificing his life while steering his burning plane away from a populated area during a training exercise.
A plaque at the local hospital tells the tale of this gallant airman who risked it all for the lives of his crew and fellow townsfolk. Chatter about erecting a statue to honor his life and death is buzzing around.
Yet, McMullen remains an under-acknowledged figure in his own homeland. A Canadian pilot from Scarborough, Ontario, his deeds of courage remain mostly unrecognized in Canada compared to the town of Darlington where he saved numerous lives.
More than eight decades later, McMullen's family seeks justice. His only daughter, Donna Barber, who's battling liver cancer at 86, yearns to see her father honored before it's too late.
"He saved the town. He saved his crew. Everybody is happy but him," said Loring Barber, the airman's grandson, expressing frustration over the lack of recognition for his grandfather's brave actions.
Lola McEvoy, the U.K. parliament member for Darlington, has taken up the cause to change that. This week, she penned a plea to the Canadian government, advocating for a posthumous honor such as a Medal of Bravery or a Star of Courage.
McMullen had already been awarded several medals for his service, including the 1939-45 Star and the War Medal. However, the family in Toronto is seeking recognition for his ultimate sacrifice made thousands of miles from home, away from his wife and young daughter.
As we prepare to mark Victory in Europe Day, it's significant to remember and acknowledge the contributions made by Canadians like McMullen. Some 1.16 million Canadian and Newfoundland forces served during the six-year war, with 44,090 paying the ultimate price.
McEvoy, moved by McMullen's story, is planning to speak with his grandchildren. The Royal Canadian Air Force, too, sent a letter to McMullen's widow following his demise, acknowledging his sacrifice with deep regret.
Yet, his story remains a forgotten chapter in Canadian history. Local historian Chris Lloyd and schoolchildren in Darlington still share letters with McMullen's family, keeping his memory alive.
But the family is tired of waiting. "What is it, a piece of paper?" said Barber. "Do it."
With files from Sam Hall in the United Kingdom.
This story was produced in collaboration with the British Press Association.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 8, 2025.
Sharif Hassan, The Canadian Press
- The interview with Loring Barber, the grandson of William Stuart McMullen, expressed his frustration over the lack of recognition for his grandfather's heroism during World War II.
- Lola McEvoy, the U.K. parliament member for Darlington, has taken up the cause to change this by writing a plea to the Canadian government, advocating for a posthumous honor for McMullen's bravery.
- McMullen's family, including his daughter Donna Barber, who's battling liver cancer at 86, are seeking recognition for his ultimate sacrifice made thousands of miles from home, away from his wife and young daughter.
- As we prepare to mark Victory in Europe Day, it's significant to inform future generations about the contributions made by Canadians like McMullen, who served bravely during the six-year war, with 44,090 paying the ultimate price.
