A Second War Halifax bomber Air Gunner’s D.F.M. awarded to Flight Sergeant J. J. Smith, 77 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve

Distinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. (1670350 F/Sgt. J. J. Smith. R.A.F.) mounted on original investiture pin; 1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence Medal, in named card box of issue addressed to the recipient at ‘Thicknesse Avenue, Beech Hill, Wigan, Lancs.’, together with ‘authority to wear’ slip for the ribands of these four medals (note no War Medal 1939-45 in lot) extremely fine (4) £1,400-£1,800

D.F.M. London Gazette 17 April 1945: ‘1670350 James Johnston Smith, R.A.F.V.R., 77 Sqn.’

The original Recommendation, dated 12 January, 1945, states: ‘Sorties 33, Flying hours 149.47 Air Gunner.
This N.C.O. Air Gunner has completed his first operational tour consisting of 33 sorties. His efficiency has been well marked by two encounters with enemy fighters. On 22nd/23rd June, 1944, when the target was Laon, a Ju.88 opened fire in an attack at approximately 300 yards. Immediately evasive action was taken followed by well co-ordinated fire from both gunners in the Halifax which resulted in many hits being obtained on the enemy fighter. Flames were seen to break out in the fighter’s port engine and almost immediately the fighter was enveloped in flames and was seen to spiral down and crash. The total destruction of the enemy aircraft was witnessed and confirmed by four members of the crew. On another occasion, that of an attack on Kiel on 16th/17th August, 1944, an F.W. 190 was sighted at about 500 yards by Flight Sergeant Smith. Immediately he gave advice to the pilot to corkscrew and although the enemy fighter opened fire, no damage was dons to the bomber due to this gunner’s alertness in detecting its presence and giving the necessary commentary to his Captain. Throughout these instances and, in fact, during the whole course of his tour, Flight Sergeant Smith has shown great coolness and a fine offensive spirit which has undoubtedly contributed greatly to the preservation of the crew and aircraft. He is strongly recommended for the award of the Distinguished Flying Medal.’