This airman has completed many operational sorties against strongly defended enemy targets. He is an excellent air gunner who has always a fine fighting spirit, enthusiasm and courage of a high degree. On two occasions when his aircraft has been attacked by enemy night fighters, Flight Sergeant Sakeld's skilful directions have enabled his captain to take successful evasive action and frustrate the attackers. Another time this airman saw an enemy aircraft intercept one of our bombers. He immediately opened fire hitting the enemy fighter which was probably destroyed.

One night in June 1942, Flight Sergeants Swanson and Crosby were captain and wireless operator respectively of an aircraft detailed to attack Essen. Whilst over the target area the aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire. Despite this, bombs were released. On the return journey the aircraft was hit on several occasions by shell fire from the ground defences. On nearing Antwerp it was attacked by an enemy fighter, the fire from which set the underside of the fuselage on fire. Flight Sergeant Crosby rendered valuable assistance in extinguishing the fire, then attended to the second pilot who had been seriously wounded. Meanwhile the aircraft had lost height from 15,000 to 200 feet. The bomb doors had dropped open and the landing wheels were in the down position. With great resolution Flight Sergeant Swanson continued on his course and succeeded in flying the damaged aircraft back to its base. His skill and devotion to duty were largely responsible for the safe return journey, while the conduct and coolness of Flight Sergeant Crosby in harassing circumstances were highly commendable

These officers and this airman were pilot, wireless operator and rear gunner respectively of an aircraft detailed to attack Oberhausen one night in November 1944. The target was successfully bombed but, soon after leaving the area, the aircraft was hit by a hail of bullets from an enemy fighter. Both inner engines were put out of action. The inter-communication and hydraulic systems were rendered unserviceable. Flying Officer Sitlington was wounded in the face and arm and Flight Sergeant Toane was injured in the face, the arms and leg. The enemy aircraft again came in with guns blazing. The bomber sustained further damage and went into a spiral dive but Flying Officer Cox succeeded in levelling out after considerable height had been lost. Meanwhile, Flying Officer Sitlington had shown the greatest coolness and determination in successfully extinguishing a fire which had broken out in his cabin. Flight Sergeant Toane had also proved his courage and resolution. Blood streamed down his face and, though almost blinded by it, he had remained in his turret to fire his guns at the attacker. Throughout the fight, Flying Officer Cox displayed great skill and coolness and he afterwards flew the severely damaged aircraft to the first available airfield. Here he effected a successful crash landing. He displayed the finest qualities of courage and determination. Flying Officer Sitlington and Flight Sergeant Toane also proved themselves to be most worthy members of aircraft crew. Although injured and in much distress they showed the highest standard of devotion to duty.

As rear gunner Flight Sergeant Vince has participated in very many sorties. He has displayed great skill and coolness and, when necessary, has defended his aircraft with resolution. On one occasion during an operation against Sterkrade his aircraft was intercepted by a fighter. In the ensuing engagement Flight Sergeant Vince used his guns to good effect. Although his own aircraft sustained damage he shot down the attacker. Some time later, on the flight home, several more attacks from enemy fighters were experienced, but this rear gunner's vigilance and skilful combat manoeuvres enabled his captain to evade the enemy aircraft. Flight Sergeant Vince has displayed outstanding devotion to duty

This airman has completed a large number of bombing sorties against the enemy in the European and Middle East theatres of war. These flights include attacks against Berlin Mannheim Duisburg Kiel Gelsenkirchen and Benghazi. He has at all times shown exceptional courage determination and devotion to duty. His cheerful manner and willingness to undertake any task have been worthy of the highest praise.
The KING has been graciously pleased to approve the following awards in recognition of gallantry displayed in flying operations against the enemy Distinguished Flying Medal. Flight Sergeant Dennis Arthur WATKINS Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve No. 419 R.C.A.F. Squadron with effect from 19th April 1943. The above awards are in recognition of gallantry and devotion to duty in the execution of air operations. Third Supplement dated 20 Jun 44 to LG dated 16 Jun 44.

With Help from Many Sources