Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

Ian left his home near Sale to join the RAAF, he was the oldest son of Cyril Francis Pedersen, who had served in the 1st World War and Vera Evelyn Green; he enlisted on the 7th May 1943 and after training at Somers, Western Junction, Deniliquin, Mildura and Canberra, he joined No 4 Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron stationed in New Guinea. Ian flew mainly Wirraways and Boomerangs throughout his time in the RAAF, and flew 68 Missions with 4 Sqn being awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross at the age of 18. The citation states:

“Since joining the Squadron in October 1944 Flying Officer Pedersen has been actively engaged against the enemy, and has carried out 67 sorties, including nine strikes and lead-ins. He has completed 164 hours of operational flying. His skill as a tactical reconnaissance pilot was outstanding and, at all times, he displayed courage and determination of a high order. His work with No 4 Squadron, both at Tadji and Labuan, was of the greatest assistance to the 6th and 9th Australian Divisions, and his zeal and complete disregard for personal safety contributed materially towards the success of the two campaigns”.

In 1962 Ian was appointed leader of the Australian National Antarctic research expedition at MacQuarie Island for that year. In retirement in the late eighties, Ian began writing about his service experiences. He reckoned he had some sixteen stories to tell but sadly he completed only six of them. In later life Ian was afflicted by an extensive period of severe depression, this drove him to take his own life at the age of 67 in May 1992.

His wife Beryl complied a book on his recollections, titled “The Road to Riam” it consists of stories written by Ian before his death about his experiences as a Pilot in New Guinea.