South Yorkshire Times, August 26th 1944
Swinton D.F.C. Gets D.S.O.
Congratulated by Bomber Command Chief
Awarded the D.F.C. last November, at the age of 21, Squadron Leader Bernard Walter Culpin, 22 years old, younger son of Mrs. and the late Mr. G. Culpin, 76, Rookery Road, Swinton, has now been awarded the Distinguished Service Order. Squadron Leader Culpin, navigator of a heavy bomber of a “Pathfinder” squadron, has completed more than 60 operational flights.
This airman, who, rising from the ranks, was commissioned only 13 months ago, since when he has gained four promotions and two medals, received the message: “My warmest congratulations on the award of your Distinguished Service Order” from Air Chief Marshal A. T. Harris, Commander-in-Chief, Bomber Command.
With his brother, Gnr. George Culpin (25) R.A, now serving in India, and their sister S/L Culpin, was educated at Mexborough Secondary School, entering the Civil Service as a Clerk in the Inland Revenue department at Rotherham. He left a post as tax officer there to join the R.A.F. three years ago.
After nine months training in Canada and America he returned to this country as a sergeant, rising to the rank of Flight-Sergeant in July, 1943, was commissioned to Pilot Officer, being posted to a Pathfinder squadron.
After being awarded the D.F.C. he was promoted Flying Officer, and then Flight Lieutenant, and two months ago, Squadron Leader.