After initial flying training, Bateson was granted a short service commission as an acting pilot officer in September 1936.

Bateson continued to serve in the RAF after the war, rising to the rank of air vice marshal in January 1960.

He has led operational formations on thirty-six occasions and often, after objectives have been attacked, he has had to force his way through superior numbers of enemy fighters.

Squadron Leader Bateson has also carried out a long series of hazardous reconnaissance’s and has obtained vital information.

In April, 1944, Wing Commander Bateson flew the leading aircraft of a formation detailed to attack a target in the Netherlands.

The operation, which demanded a high degree of courage and determination, was completed, with success and reflects the greatest credit on the efforts of this officer, whose leadership was outstanding.

In March, 1945, Group Captain Bateson led a large formation of aircraft in an attack on the headquarters of the German Gestapo in Copenhagen.