A superb Immediate D.F.M. awarded to Flight Sergeant C. E. D. Stewart, No. 207 (Liecester’s Own) Squadron, Royal Air Force

Distinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. (1101124 F/Sgt. C.E.D. Stewart, R.A.F.) with corresponding miniature, nearly extremely fine (2)

D.F.M. London Gazette 18 February 1944. The citation is shared with Pilot Officer W. Gallagher who was awarded an immediate D.S.O. ‘This officer and airman were pilot and flight engineer respectively of an aircraft detailed to attack Brunswick one night in January 1944. When crossing the enemy coast, one of the aircraft’s engines became unserviceable. Despite this Pilot Officer Gallagher continued his mission. When approaching the target, a fighter was sighted. The enemy aircraft was closing in, but P/O Gallagher held to a straight course in order to ensure accurate bombing. When the bombing run was completed, evading action was taken. The fighter continued to attack for a further 25 minutes by which time P/O Gallagher’s aircraft had sustained extensive damage and two engines were out of action. Nevertheless, course was set for home. Some time later, the aircraft was subjected to considerable anti-aircraft fire. A shell burst near one of the wings and the port aileron was hit by shrapnel and became jammed. The cowling top over the starboard inner engine was also hit and thereafter hung loose. The aircraft became difficult to control and height was gradually lost. Much moveable equipment was jettisoned in an effort to maintain height and the North Sea was crossed. When approaching base, Pilot Officer Gallagher ordered his crew to crash positions. Flight Sergeant Stewart, who had rendered great assistance so far, elected to remain and assist his Captain in landing the aircraft. The task was successfully accomplished but, as the aircraft touched down, one of the landing wheels came off. The crew, except Flight Sergeant Stewart, who was slightly hurt, escaped injury. In the most difficult circumstances, Pilot Officer Gallagher displayed skill, courage and determination of the highest order and Flight Sergeant Stewart’s exemplary conduct and devotion to duty were highly commendable.’