F/O H.L. Hooper, Pilot of crew 168 (4 missions; Apr 1945)

F/O Herbert Leslie Hooper, was born February 19, 1919 in Ontario, Canada.  To the best of his family's recollection, he was a pilot a Lancaster Bomber, originating in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and based in England during the war.

Nose-art on the plane, was a caricature of Wimpy, from the Popeye comics.  Burgers were painted on the plane, to signify the safe return from a mission. 

The Hooper crew also flew missions in Lancaster bombers; "Li'l Abner" and "The Hairy Chop" (Nose-Art section) of 434 Squadron (also see "Strike & Op's" Hooper crew 168 - Leipzig).

After the war, Herb was as an engineer with Hydro Quebec, assisting in construction of their hydroelectric dams in the northern regions of the province.  During this time, he met and married Yvette Melvina Geruard, from Montreal. They had two sons; John and Roger.  Upon moving to New Brunswick in the 1960's, Herb worked as an engineer on the Mactaquac Dam project. 

Crew mate F/O W.L. Rootham's wedding, Herb is the best man (3rd from right)

He was also involved in the development of the underwater pipeline, at Campobello Island.  Due to a shoulder injury, he was forced to retire at the age of 55. 

Herb Hooper in Quebec after the war.

Herb and Yvette enjoyed a wide variety of sports together; avid golfers, curlers, and Herb had a fond passion for fishing.  Mr. Hooper passed away 19 April 1982 at the age of 63.

Photos and biography courtesy of Roger Hooper (son) via Margaret Phillips.