HughAHalliday
29th April 2010, 00:54
A recent thread on the other side of the Board moves me to provide the following for whoever might be intested, representing as it does all that I currently have to hand on the subject.
Much of the following is drawn from file Air 2/4798, which also contains recommendations for several officers which were not approved. There is much discussion in the file as to how the honours were to be worn, as Russian practice was to wear the whole medal when possible, and not merely indicate an award with a ribbon.
BARBER, Douglas, F/O (49574) - Medal of Valour (Soviet Union) - No.180 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"This officer has been engaged on active operations since 1940 and has completed 74 sorties involving attacks on a wide variety of targets. During the fighting in France, in the early stages of the war, he was shoot down and wounded after completing five missions. In the role of wireless operator/air gunner Flying Officer Barber displayed great skill and determination ans his successes include the destruction of two enemy aircraft on the ground. He is now employed as gunnery leader. Throughout his long tour his efforts have been characterized by by great courage and unswerving devotion to duty and his example has been worthy of the highest praise."
BENNETT, Donald Clifford Tyndall, A/V/M, CBE, DSO - No.8 Group, Bomber Command - Order of Alexander Nevsky - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"Air Vice-Marshal Bennett is a fine operational pilot. He has displayed exceptional determination and efficiency. As Air Officer Commanding of the Path Finder Force his personal bravery and skilful leadership have resulted in daring attacks against enemy targets."
BROWNING, John George (87854) S/L - Station Headquarters, Sollum Voe - Order of the Red Star - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"As Senior Station Intelligence Officer, Squadron Leader Browing was personally responsible for the collection and preparation of all intelligence data, characteristics of bases and flight details for all the North Russian operational transit flights, convoy escorts and Arctic reconnaissances."
BUSWELL, John Richard, Warrant Officer (513036) - No.30 Mission, Royal Air Force Party “A”, Archangel - Order of the Red Star - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
|Warrant Officer Buswell is the Signals Officer at Archangel. He displayed great ability in the original installation and subsequent maintenance of his equipment, sometimes under very difficult conditions. It has been largely due to his personal efforts that the wireless links at the station have been so successfully maintained from October 1941 to the present time."
CALLINSON, Cyril, Flight Sergeant (620212) - Medal of Valour (Soviet Union) - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Public Record Office Air 2/4798 has recommendation.
"This airman is a flight engineer of outstanding ability. He has participated in many long and arduous patrols in connection with Russian convoys."
CAMPBELL, Edward, Sergeant (1142447) - No.115 Squadron, Bomber Command - Medal for Distinguished Battle Service - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"As rear gunner of a Lancaster aircraft, this airman has completed 26 successful operational sorties against targets in Berlin, Hamburg and the Ruhr area. He has consistently shown courage, alertness and devotion to duty which has contribued to the success of the operations."
CHANDLER, Edmund Basil, A/F/L, DFC (122814) - No.617 Squadron - Medal of Valour (Soviet Union) - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"As air gunner, this officer has participated in 68 operational sorties at night during which he has consistently displayed great courage and initiative. On completion of his second tour of operations he relinquished the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant in order to fill a vacancy in a squadron detailed for special operations against enemy targets."
COZENS, Henry Iliffe, A/C, AFC - Headquarters, No.1 Group, Bomber Command - Medal for Distinguished Battle Service - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"Air Commodore Cozens commanded Royal Air Force Station Hemswell and the Polish squadrons at Ingham from May to December 1943 and on many occasions he has participated in operational sorties with young and inexperienced Polish crews. Air Commodore Cozens’ complete disregard for personal danger has imbued the crews with courage and determination which have contributed materially to the subsequent successes achieved."
CROUCHER, Louis Ernnest Charles, Flight Sergeant - No.190 Squadron, Coastal Command - Medal for Distinguished Battle Service - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"As wireless operator/air gunner this airman has displayed outstanding ability during Russian convoy patrols and reconnaissances in northern waters."
CUNNINGHAM, John, W/C, DSO, DFC (90216) - No.85 Squadron - Order of the Great Patriotic War (1st Class)- awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"With the exception of a period of three months when he was serving with No.81 Group, Wing Commander Cunningham has been engaged on active operations since the war began. He has displayed brilliant leadership, outstanding courage and devotion to duty which, combined with exceptional knowledge, of every aspect of flying, had made him one of the outstanding personalities of the Royal Air Force. Wing Commander Cunningham has destroyed 19 enemy aircraft, 18 of them at night."
DICKSON, William Foster, A/V/M, CB, DSO, OBE, AFC - Order of Suvorof (3rd Class) - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944.
DIXON, John Hugh, F/L (Aus 405595, Royal Australian Air Force) - No.106 Wing, Coastal Command - Medal for Distinguished Battle Service - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"This officer, as pilot of a photographic reconnaissance aircraft based in northern Russia, participated in many reconnaissance flights over German battleships in Norway in connection with a naval operation. Despite intense enemy opposition and adverse weather, Flying Officer Dixon has completed his missions and on many occasions obtained valuable photographs."
FAIRLEY, Richard Durant, F/L (109930) - No.210 Squadron - Order of the Great Patriotic War (2ndt Class)- awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"Flight Lieutenant Fairly, as captain and navigator of aircraft, has participated in many operational flight over Arctic waters. For some months he was stationed at Murmansk from where he completed many flying hours whilst engaged in the protection of Russian convoys."
GARDINER, Walter George, W/C, DFC, AFC (43134) - No.5 Lancaster Finishing School - Order of the Great Patriotic War (1st Class)- awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"As pilot and captain of aircraft, this officer has completed 62 sorties during which he has inflicted much damage on the enemy. Since the completion of his operational duties he has proved himself to be an instructor of high spirit and has instilled a high degree of skill and determination into the personnel he has trained."
GITTINS, Victor Arthur, S/L, MBE (44208) - Headquarters, No.13 Group, Allied Expeditionary Headquarters - Order of the Red Star - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"This officer was employed as Wing Engineer Officer of No.151 Wing throughout the period that the formation served in Russia. The serviceability of aircraft and general engineering efficiency of the wing were largely due to the energy, drive and initiative displayed by this officer."
GREEN, Charles Patrick., G/C, DSO, DFC - Order of the Great Patriotic War (1st Class)- awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Document ir 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne, indicates theat he was recommended as a Wing Commander and Commanding Officer, No.600 Squadron, but provides no citation.
HARRIS, Arthur, Sir, A/C/M, KCB, OBE, MC - Order of Suvorov - awarded as per London Gazette dated 29 February 1944.
HAW, Charleton, Flight Sergeant, now P/O, DFM (745249) - Order of Lenin - awarded as per London Gazette dated 31 March 1942
HOPPS, Frank Liriden, A/V/M, CBE, AFC - Mo.18 Group, Coastal Command - Order of Kutuzov (3rd Class)- awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"In August and September 1942, whilst senior air staff officer of No.18 Group, this officer commanded a combined wing of two torpedo squadrons, twelve flying boats and a photographic reconnaissance unit detachment in Russia. He displayed great energy, drive and organising ability. His actions resulted in the successful arrival of a convoy and contributed materially to the close cooperation with the Russian services."
JEPHSON, Ronald, Sergeant (815066) - Medal of Valour (Soviet Union) - Middle East Command - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"As wireless operator to Majors Jones and Hunter, this airman was parachuted into western Croatia on 19th May 1943. During the period of the establishment of the mission and the difficult journeys through enemy occupied territory Sergeant Jephson maintained constant and secure wireless contact with Cairo despite hazardous conditions. He also accompanied Major Hunter on dangerous reconnaissances of enemy roads and railways. In the absence of Major Hunter, Sergeant Jephson assumed command of the British Mission at Partisan Headquarters, Croatia and for a time he was the sole liaison link with them. Sergeant Jephson commanded a party of Croatian Partisans in reconnaissances of the coast and obtained information essential for the reception of allied vessels. On one occasion the reconnaissance involved a sharp encounter with the enemy in order to withdraw from that particular area."
KENWRIGHT, Burton Roy, F/O (122960) - No.106 Wing, Coastal Command - Medal for Distinguished Battle Service - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Awarded DFC, 7 July 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"As pilot of a Spitfire aircraft this officer participated in many reconnaissances from North Russia. Despite intense enemy opposition and adverse weather, Flying Officer Kenwright obtained valuable photographs of German battleships in North Norway."
LEIGH-MALLORY, Trafford, A/M, KCB, DSO - Order of Kutuzov (First Class) - awarded as per London Gazette dated 31 October 1944 (repeated in issue of 30 January 1945; second award rescinded by London Gazette of 2 February 1945).
McGUINTY, William Lorraine, Sergeant (R.54211, Royal Canadian Air Force) - Medal of Valour (Soviet Union) - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Public Records Office Air 2/4798 has details. This was part of an issuance of Soviet awards to 30 RAF personnel including the "Order of Alexander Nevsky" and "Order of the Red Star" The Medal of Valour (or Medal for Valour) was described as being for "men, officers and Chiefs in the Red Army and Navy, for personal bravery and courage in the battles against the enemies of the Soviet Union on the field of battle defending the inviolability of the State borders, or fighting against saboteurs, spies and other enemies of the Soviet Union." McGuinty's medal is with the Canadian War Museum. Recommended by Coastal Command; citation gives unit as No.190 Squadron (with which unit he was at the time).
"Flight Sergeant McGuinty, a skilful and determined flight engineer, has participated in many hazardous flights over Arctic waters in connection with the protection of Russian convoys. His work, whilst in Russia, was largely responsible for the high standard of serviceability of the aircraft."
McNAMARA, Brian Radley, W/C (25123) - No.295 Squadron - Order of the Great Patriotic War (2ndt Class)- awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"This officer served as a fighter pilot during the Battle of Britain and, in this period, completed 120 sorties. He shot down two enemy aircraft, shared in the destruction of another one and damaged three more. Since then he has participated in three intruder sorties, flying Blenheim aircraft of No.614 Squadron. Wing Commander McNamara now commands No.295 Squadron which, owing to its role with airborne forces, has not yet been called upon for operations."
MILLER, Anthony Garforth, W/C, DFC (95088) - Order of Lenin - awarded as per London Gazette dated 31 March 1942
RAMSBOTTOM-USHERWOOD, Henry Neville Gynes, W/C, DFC, AFC (29116) - Order of Lenin - awarded as per London Gazette dated 31 March 1942
REECE, Arthur, S/L, DFC, AFC (44128) - No.149 Squadron- Order of the Great Patriotic War (2ndt Class)- awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"This officer completed his first tour of operations in December 1942. In June 1943 he was appointed Flight Commander since when he has completed a further thirteen sorties including attacks against Berlin, Hamburg and Cologne. His keenness, energy and sound judgement have proved him to be an exceptional leader and an inspiration to all under his command."
ROBINSON, Frank Anthony, S/L, DFC (33520) - No.543 Squadron - Order of the Great Patriotic War (1st Class)- awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"During September and October 1943, this officer was in command of a detachment of photographic reconnaissance aircraft stationed in North Russia. Squadron Leader Robinson has shown outstanding ability as a leader and has participated in many reconnaissance flights in connection with naval operations. Despite adverse weather and enemy opposition much valuable information has been obtained, contributing largely to the success of subsequent naval operations."
ROOK, Anthony Hartwell, S/L, DFC (90071) - Order of Lenin - awarded as per London Gazette dated 31 March 1942
RUDDY, Michael Anthony, Warrant Officer - No.296 Squadron - Medal for Distinguished Battle Service - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"From November 1940 to December 1941, Warrant Officer Ruddy served in the Middle East where he participated in 61 bombing sorties. Since May 1942 he has served with the Airborne Forces squadrons. He is a keen and efficient member of air crew and has set a very fine example."
SAUNDERS, Arthur Penrose Martyn, A/V/M, CBE - Bomber Command Headquarters - Order of the Red Star - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"Air Vice-Marshal Saunders, as Air Officer-in-Charge of Administration, has rendered outstanding service which has contributed largely to the prosecution of the war."
SMALE, Harold Edward, Corporal (576326) - Middle East Command - Medal for Distinguished Battle Service - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"Corporal Smale, accompanied by two Canadian Croats, was parachuted into Western Bosnia on 3rd July 1943. This mission, during which he was the sole British representative, succeeded in establishing relations with and in gaining the confidence of the Military Leaders at the Headquarters of the Partisan Corps operating in Western Bosnia. Under most difficult and trying conditions, Sergeant Small [sic], by his ingenuity and great determination, succeeded in repairing damaged wireless equipment and was generally responsible for the maintenance of wireless communications throughout. Corporal Smale proved himself to be thoroughly capable and reliable."
SMITH, Donald Hamilton, F/L (Aus 407256, Royal Australian Air Force) - No.41 Squadron - Medal of Valour (Soviet Union) - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"This officer is a daring and skilful fighter who has served both in this country [e.g. United Kingdom] and in Malta. He has destrpyed four enemy aircraft including two bombers. On one occasion, when flying alone over Malta, he attacked and shot down a bomber which was escorted by four fighters. In the combat his own aircraft was extensively damaged. In operations whilst serving in England he has continued to display great courage and fine fighting qualities."
TUTTLE, Geoffrey William, G/C, OBE, DFC - Order of the Great Patriotic War (2ndt Class)- awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944.
WARNER, William Arthur, Sergeant (1425290) - No.190 Squadron - Medal of Valour (Soviet Union) - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Public Record Office Air 2/4798 has recommendation.
"Sergeant Warner, as flight engineer, has completed many long and arduous flight in connection with the protection of Russian convoys in Northern waters. His keenness and alertness have set an excellent example."
WROUGHTON, Walter Henry, Corporal - Middle East Command - Medal for Distinguished Battle Service - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"On 18th September 1943, this airman as wireless operator to Major Deakin, was parachuted to General Tito\s General Headquarters. Despite long marches under constant enemy fire, Corporal Wroughton maintained continuous wireless contact with Cairo. Later he accompanied Major Deakin on his mission to Dalmatia and personally carried out dangerous reconnaissances in Western Bosnia with a view to finding possible landing grounds. During the absence of Major Deakin, Corporal Wroughton assumed command of the mission and maintained most cordial relations with the military leaders. Throughout, Corporal Wroughton showed courage and initiative worthy of high praise."
Much of the following is drawn from file Air 2/4798, which also contains recommendations for several officers which were not approved. There is much discussion in the file as to how the honours were to be worn, as Russian practice was to wear the whole medal when possible, and not merely indicate an award with a ribbon.
BARBER, Douglas, F/O (49574) - Medal of Valour (Soviet Union) - No.180 Squadron - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"This officer has been engaged on active operations since 1940 and has completed 74 sorties involving attacks on a wide variety of targets. During the fighting in France, in the early stages of the war, he was shoot down and wounded after completing five missions. In the role of wireless operator/air gunner Flying Officer Barber displayed great skill and determination ans his successes include the destruction of two enemy aircraft on the ground. He is now employed as gunnery leader. Throughout his long tour his efforts have been characterized by by great courage and unswerving devotion to duty and his example has been worthy of the highest praise."
BENNETT, Donald Clifford Tyndall, A/V/M, CBE, DSO - No.8 Group, Bomber Command - Order of Alexander Nevsky - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"Air Vice-Marshal Bennett is a fine operational pilot. He has displayed exceptional determination and efficiency. As Air Officer Commanding of the Path Finder Force his personal bravery and skilful leadership have resulted in daring attacks against enemy targets."
BROWNING, John George (87854) S/L - Station Headquarters, Sollum Voe - Order of the Red Star - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"As Senior Station Intelligence Officer, Squadron Leader Browing was personally responsible for the collection and preparation of all intelligence data, characteristics of bases and flight details for all the North Russian operational transit flights, convoy escorts and Arctic reconnaissances."
BUSWELL, John Richard, Warrant Officer (513036) - No.30 Mission, Royal Air Force Party “A”, Archangel - Order of the Red Star - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
|Warrant Officer Buswell is the Signals Officer at Archangel. He displayed great ability in the original installation and subsequent maintenance of his equipment, sometimes under very difficult conditions. It has been largely due to his personal efforts that the wireless links at the station have been so successfully maintained from October 1941 to the present time."
CALLINSON, Cyril, Flight Sergeant (620212) - Medal of Valour (Soviet Union) - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Public Record Office Air 2/4798 has recommendation.
"This airman is a flight engineer of outstanding ability. He has participated in many long and arduous patrols in connection with Russian convoys."
CAMPBELL, Edward, Sergeant (1142447) - No.115 Squadron, Bomber Command - Medal for Distinguished Battle Service - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"As rear gunner of a Lancaster aircraft, this airman has completed 26 successful operational sorties against targets in Berlin, Hamburg and the Ruhr area. He has consistently shown courage, alertness and devotion to duty which has contribued to the success of the operations."
CHANDLER, Edmund Basil, A/F/L, DFC (122814) - No.617 Squadron - Medal of Valour (Soviet Union) - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"As air gunner, this officer has participated in 68 operational sorties at night during which he has consistently displayed great courage and initiative. On completion of his second tour of operations he relinquished the rank of Acting Flight Lieutenant in order to fill a vacancy in a squadron detailed for special operations against enemy targets."
COZENS, Henry Iliffe, A/C, AFC - Headquarters, No.1 Group, Bomber Command - Medal for Distinguished Battle Service - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"Air Commodore Cozens commanded Royal Air Force Station Hemswell and the Polish squadrons at Ingham from May to December 1943 and on many occasions he has participated in operational sorties with young and inexperienced Polish crews. Air Commodore Cozens’ complete disregard for personal danger has imbued the crews with courage and determination which have contributed materially to the subsequent successes achieved."
CROUCHER, Louis Ernnest Charles, Flight Sergeant - No.190 Squadron, Coastal Command - Medal for Distinguished Battle Service - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"As wireless operator/air gunner this airman has displayed outstanding ability during Russian convoy patrols and reconnaissances in northern waters."
CUNNINGHAM, John, W/C, DSO, DFC (90216) - No.85 Squadron - Order of the Great Patriotic War (1st Class)- awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"With the exception of a period of three months when he was serving with No.81 Group, Wing Commander Cunningham has been engaged on active operations since the war began. He has displayed brilliant leadership, outstanding courage and devotion to duty which, combined with exceptional knowledge, of every aspect of flying, had made him one of the outstanding personalities of the Royal Air Force. Wing Commander Cunningham has destroyed 19 enemy aircraft, 18 of them at night."
DICKSON, William Foster, A/V/M, CB, DSO, OBE, AFC - Order of Suvorof (3rd Class) - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944.
DIXON, John Hugh, F/L (Aus 405595, Royal Australian Air Force) - No.106 Wing, Coastal Command - Medal for Distinguished Battle Service - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"This officer, as pilot of a photographic reconnaissance aircraft based in northern Russia, participated in many reconnaissance flights over German battleships in Norway in connection with a naval operation. Despite intense enemy opposition and adverse weather, Flying Officer Dixon has completed his missions and on many occasions obtained valuable photographs."
FAIRLEY, Richard Durant, F/L (109930) - No.210 Squadron - Order of the Great Patriotic War (2ndt Class)- awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"Flight Lieutenant Fairly, as captain and navigator of aircraft, has participated in many operational flight over Arctic waters. For some months he was stationed at Murmansk from where he completed many flying hours whilst engaged in the protection of Russian convoys."
GARDINER, Walter George, W/C, DFC, AFC (43134) - No.5 Lancaster Finishing School - Order of the Great Patriotic War (1st Class)- awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"As pilot and captain of aircraft, this officer has completed 62 sorties during which he has inflicted much damage on the enemy. Since the completion of his operational duties he has proved himself to be an instructor of high spirit and has instilled a high degree of skill and determination into the personnel he has trained."
GITTINS, Victor Arthur, S/L, MBE (44208) - Headquarters, No.13 Group, Allied Expeditionary Headquarters - Order of the Red Star - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"This officer was employed as Wing Engineer Officer of No.151 Wing throughout the period that the formation served in Russia. The serviceability of aircraft and general engineering efficiency of the wing were largely due to the energy, drive and initiative displayed by this officer."
GREEN, Charles Patrick., G/C, DSO, DFC - Order of the Great Patriotic War (1st Class)- awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Document ir 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne, indicates theat he was recommended as a Wing Commander and Commanding Officer, No.600 Squadron, but provides no citation.
HARRIS, Arthur, Sir, A/C/M, KCB, OBE, MC - Order of Suvorov - awarded as per London Gazette dated 29 February 1944.
HAW, Charleton, Flight Sergeant, now P/O, DFM (745249) - Order of Lenin - awarded as per London Gazette dated 31 March 1942
HOPPS, Frank Liriden, A/V/M, CBE, AFC - Mo.18 Group, Coastal Command - Order of Kutuzov (3rd Class)- awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"In August and September 1942, whilst senior air staff officer of No.18 Group, this officer commanded a combined wing of two torpedo squadrons, twelve flying boats and a photographic reconnaissance unit detachment in Russia. He displayed great energy, drive and organising ability. His actions resulted in the successful arrival of a convoy and contributed materially to the close cooperation with the Russian services."
JEPHSON, Ronald, Sergeant (815066) - Medal of Valour (Soviet Union) - Middle East Command - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"As wireless operator to Majors Jones and Hunter, this airman was parachuted into western Croatia on 19th May 1943. During the period of the establishment of the mission and the difficult journeys through enemy occupied territory Sergeant Jephson maintained constant and secure wireless contact with Cairo despite hazardous conditions. He also accompanied Major Hunter on dangerous reconnaissances of enemy roads and railways. In the absence of Major Hunter, Sergeant Jephson assumed command of the British Mission at Partisan Headquarters, Croatia and for a time he was the sole liaison link with them. Sergeant Jephson commanded a party of Croatian Partisans in reconnaissances of the coast and obtained information essential for the reception of allied vessels. On one occasion the reconnaissance involved a sharp encounter with the enemy in order to withdraw from that particular area."
KENWRIGHT, Burton Roy, F/O (122960) - No.106 Wing, Coastal Command - Medal for Distinguished Battle Service - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Awarded DFC, 7 July 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"As pilot of a Spitfire aircraft this officer participated in many reconnaissances from North Russia. Despite intense enemy opposition and adverse weather, Flying Officer Kenwright obtained valuable photographs of German battleships in North Norway."
LEIGH-MALLORY, Trafford, A/M, KCB, DSO - Order of Kutuzov (First Class) - awarded as per London Gazette dated 31 October 1944 (repeated in issue of 30 January 1945; second award rescinded by London Gazette of 2 February 1945).
McGUINTY, William Lorraine, Sergeant (R.54211, Royal Canadian Air Force) - Medal of Valour (Soviet Union) - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Public Records Office Air 2/4798 has details. This was part of an issuance of Soviet awards to 30 RAF personnel including the "Order of Alexander Nevsky" and "Order of the Red Star" The Medal of Valour (or Medal for Valour) was described as being for "men, officers and Chiefs in the Red Army and Navy, for personal bravery and courage in the battles against the enemies of the Soviet Union on the field of battle defending the inviolability of the State borders, or fighting against saboteurs, spies and other enemies of the Soviet Union." McGuinty's medal is with the Canadian War Museum. Recommended by Coastal Command; citation gives unit as No.190 Squadron (with which unit he was at the time).
"Flight Sergeant McGuinty, a skilful and determined flight engineer, has participated in many hazardous flights over Arctic waters in connection with the protection of Russian convoys. His work, whilst in Russia, was largely responsible for the high standard of serviceability of the aircraft."
McNAMARA, Brian Radley, W/C (25123) - No.295 Squadron - Order of the Great Patriotic War (2ndt Class)- awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"This officer served as a fighter pilot during the Battle of Britain and, in this period, completed 120 sorties. He shot down two enemy aircraft, shared in the destruction of another one and damaged three more. Since then he has participated in three intruder sorties, flying Blenheim aircraft of No.614 Squadron. Wing Commander McNamara now commands No.295 Squadron which, owing to its role with airborne forces, has not yet been called upon for operations."
MILLER, Anthony Garforth, W/C, DFC (95088) - Order of Lenin - awarded as per London Gazette dated 31 March 1942
RAMSBOTTOM-USHERWOOD, Henry Neville Gynes, W/C, DFC, AFC (29116) - Order of Lenin - awarded as per London Gazette dated 31 March 1942
REECE, Arthur, S/L, DFC, AFC (44128) - No.149 Squadron- Order of the Great Patriotic War (2ndt Class)- awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"This officer completed his first tour of operations in December 1942. In June 1943 he was appointed Flight Commander since when he has completed a further thirteen sorties including attacks against Berlin, Hamburg and Cologne. His keenness, energy and sound judgement have proved him to be an exceptional leader and an inspiration to all under his command."
ROBINSON, Frank Anthony, S/L, DFC (33520) - No.543 Squadron - Order of the Great Patriotic War (1st Class)- awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"During September and October 1943, this officer was in command of a detachment of photographic reconnaissance aircraft stationed in North Russia. Squadron Leader Robinson has shown outstanding ability as a leader and has participated in many reconnaissance flights in connection with naval operations. Despite adverse weather and enemy opposition much valuable information has been obtained, contributing largely to the success of subsequent naval operations."
ROOK, Anthony Hartwell, S/L, DFC (90071) - Order of Lenin - awarded as per London Gazette dated 31 March 1942
RUDDY, Michael Anthony, Warrant Officer - No.296 Squadron - Medal for Distinguished Battle Service - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"From November 1940 to December 1941, Warrant Officer Ruddy served in the Middle East where he participated in 61 bombing sorties. Since May 1942 he has served with the Airborne Forces squadrons. He is a keen and efficient member of air crew and has set a very fine example."
SAUNDERS, Arthur Penrose Martyn, A/V/M, CBE - Bomber Command Headquarters - Order of the Red Star - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"Air Vice-Marshal Saunders, as Air Officer-in-Charge of Administration, has rendered outstanding service which has contributed largely to the prosecution of the war."
SMALE, Harold Edward, Corporal (576326) - Middle East Command - Medal for Distinguished Battle Service - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"Corporal Smale, accompanied by two Canadian Croats, was parachuted into Western Bosnia on 3rd July 1943. This mission, during which he was the sole British representative, succeeded in establishing relations with and in gaining the confidence of the Military Leaders at the Headquarters of the Partisan Corps operating in Western Bosnia. Under most difficult and trying conditions, Sergeant Small [sic], by his ingenuity and great determination, succeeded in repairing damaged wireless equipment and was generally responsible for the maintenance of wireless communications throughout. Corporal Smale proved himself to be thoroughly capable and reliable."
SMITH, Donald Hamilton, F/L (Aus 407256, Royal Australian Air Force) - No.41 Squadron - Medal of Valour (Soviet Union) - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"This officer is a daring and skilful fighter who has served both in this country [e.g. United Kingdom] and in Malta. He has destrpyed four enemy aircraft including two bombers. On one occasion, when flying alone over Malta, he attacked and shot down a bomber which was escorted by four fighters. In the combat his own aircraft was extensively damaged. In operations whilst serving in England he has continued to display great courage and fine fighting qualities."
TUTTLE, Geoffrey William, G/C, OBE, DFC - Order of the Great Patriotic War (2ndt Class)- awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944.
WARNER, William Arthur, Sergeant (1425290) - No.190 Squadron - Medal of Valour (Soviet Union) - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Public Record Office Air 2/4798 has recommendation.
"Sergeant Warner, as flight engineer, has completed many long and arduous flight in connection with the protection of Russian convoys in Northern waters. His keenness and alertness have set an excellent example."
WROUGHTON, Walter Henry, Corporal - Middle East Command - Medal for Distinguished Battle Service - awarded as per London Gazette dated 11 April 1944. Citation from Air 2/4798, courtesy of Tom Thorne.
"On 18th September 1943, this airman as wireless operator to Major Deakin, was parachuted to General Tito\s General Headquarters. Despite long marches under constant enemy fire, Corporal Wroughton maintained continuous wireless contact with Cairo. Later he accompanied Major Deakin on his mission to Dalmatia and personally carried out dangerous reconnaissances in Western Bosnia with a view to finding possible landing grounds. During the absence of Major Deakin, Corporal Wroughton assumed command of the mission and maintained most cordial relations with the military leaders. Throughout, Corporal Wroughton showed courage and initiative worthy of high praise."