The Haileybury Society is saddened to learn of the death of John Cordeux Bliss, QPM (L 27) who has died on 18th October 1999, aged 85.

Beaufighter pilot in the MEF

John attended the Metropolitan Police College at Hendon in 1936 before the Second World War interrupted his career. In 1939 he joined the RAF, serving with Coastal Command and then with 227 Squadron, Middle East Air Force, flying twin-engined Bristol Beaufighters (above) and achieving the rank of flight lieutenant.

Post-war police advancement

After the war, John served in various roles in the Criminal Investigations Department of the Metropolitan Police.

He became a Detective Inspector in 1951, was called to the Bar in 1954 and five years later became a Detective Chief Superintendent.?He was subsequently promoted to Deputy Chief Commissioner in 1965 before becoming the National Co-Ordinator for Regional Crime Squads (1965-70).

He retired in 1971 having been awarded the Queen’s Police Medal (QPM) in 1969. Post retirement he also served as a member of the Parole Board.

Other interests

As well as being a Liveryman for the Merchant Taylor’s Company, he also served on the Churchill Memorial Trust Fellowship in 1967 and was a member of the RAF club in Piccadilly.?

He had a particular interest in rackets and hillwalking; his garden also gave him tremendous pleasure in quieter moments.