Born 1919 in Valparaiso, Chile. Enlisted in January 1941. E.H.M. Patterson was commissioned from Leading Aircraftsman (1384217) as a Pilot Officer on probation RAFVR wef 1 April 1942. He was promoted to Flying Officer on probation (war substantive) wef 1 October 1942 and was promoted to Flt Lt (war substantive) wef 1 April 1944.  He was posted from the Fighter Leader School to 350 (Belgian) Squadron on 1 June 1944. Staying for only a few weeks he left for a posting as Flight Commander to 229 Squadron on 18 July 1944. Took command of 229 Squadron in November 1944 till 10 January 1945 (229 Squadron disbanded on 10 January 1945 to become 603 (City of Edinburgh) Squadron). Eric Patterson left 603 (City of Edinburgh) Squadron at the end of January 1945. DFC awarded as per London Gazette dated 26 January 1945. Flt Lt Patterson resigned his commission in the RAFVR (retaining the rank of Sqn Ldr) wef 6 February 1947. Source: London Gazette. 

Citation as follows:

 AS/L Eric Holden Marshall Patterson (119231) DFC Citation from Air Ministry Bulletin. 26/1/45

 "Squadron Leader Patterson has proved himself to be a most valuable pilot and flight commander. Since August 1944 he has completed a very large number of sorties, many of which have been flown in severe weather and in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire. He has led many reconnaissance missions against enemy shipping. These have frequently demanded a high standard of airmanship, skill and coolness. Squadron Leader Patterson has also destroyed many enemy transport vehicles. His skill and efficiency as pilot and leader have always been outstanding."