Lieutenant General Donald Laubman, a veteran of the Royal Canadian Air Force, was one of the most distinguished pilots of World War II. His extraordinary bravery and skill contributed significantly to the reputation of the Canadian Armed Forces, particularly in Europe. Learn more at edmonton-yes.com.
Early Life and Inspiration
Donald Laubman was born in Provost, Alberta, on October 16, 1921. His family later moved to Edmonton, where he spent his childhood. As a teenager, Donald met Alberta pilot Wop May, who inspired his fascination with flying. Donald spent hours at Edmonton Airport, captivated by the sight of planes taking off and landing.
After finishing school, Donald worked at a grocery store across from a Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) recruitment center. When Canada entered World War II, he visited the center and was soon enrolled in training. He began his journey at Elementary Flying Training School No. 2 in Regina, Saskatchewan, followed by No. 5 Flying School in Lethbridge, Alberta, where he trained on Tiger Moths. He later advanced to Service Flying Training School No. 3, learning to fly Avro Ansons. On September 13, 1940, Donald was officially enlisted. By 1941, he was an instructor and eventually advanced to the rank of flight lieutenant. His training included flying Fleet Finch, Fawn, and Harvard MK II aircraft at the Central Flying School in Trenton.
Overseas Combat Success
While stationed overseas, Laubman demonstrated extraordinary courage and determination in aerial combat. Between September 25 and 27, 1944, he set a remarkable record in the Netherlands by shooting down four German planes and damaging two others in just three days. During this period, he conducted critical combat missions over Nijmegen.
In one notable encounter, Laubman spotted a Bf 109 while on patrol. Closing the distance to 300 yards, he fired a short burst before his guns jammed. Undeterred, he moved closer to within 50 yards, unleashing machine gun fire that brought the enemy plane crashing to the ground.
Serving under the command of Leslie McNair, Laubman participated in 102 sorties with the 412 Squadron from June 6 to November 1944. During one mission in July 1944, he downed two Focke-Wulf FW 190 aircraft. His willingness to engage in close combat was a defining trait that made him a successful fighter pilot.
After completing his tour, Laubman returned to Canada but soon requested another overseas posting, this time with the 402 Squadron. For his outstanding achievements during World War II, Donald Laubman was twice awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.
Post-War Career
Following his demobilization, Laubman rejoined the RCAF. His post-war career included serving in squadrons 410, 416, and 418. In 1949, he led the first RCAF jet aerobatic team, the “Blue Devils,” which performed in 45 airshows over three years. Rising through the ranks, Laubman held key positions, including serving in the Pentagon with the U.S. Air Force and as a senior officer at the National Defense College.
In 1972, Laubman retired as a lieutenant general and head of personnel for the Canadian Armed Forces. Transitioning to civilian life, he began a career with Canadian Tire, managing stores in Manitoba and Saskatchewan before opening his own store in Red Deer in 1979.
Civic Leadership and Legacy
As a business owner, Laubman leveraged his leadership skills to benefit the community. He chaired the board of “Red Deer Crime Stoppers” and served as a director for “Crime Stoppers International.” As a member and later chair of the “David Thompson Health Region Foundation,” he spearheaded fundraising efforts for healthcare programs and hospital upgrades in central Alberta. Laubman also became vice-chair of the “Lending Cupboard,” which provided home-care medical equipment to Red Deer residents. In 2005, the city honored him as an honorary citizen.
Despite his remarkable achievements, Laubman remained humble, attributing his success to the people he worked with throughout his life.
Donald Laubman passed away on June 20, 2018, leaving behind a legacy of bravery, service, and community leadership.