Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Three: Sergeant (Wireless Operator / Air Gunner) J. J. Clifton, 150 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, who was killed in action when his Wellington crashed during a bombing raid on Essen, 5-6 June 1942

1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star; War Medal 1939-45, with named Air Council enclosure and medal ticket, in card box of issue, addressed to ‘S. Clifton Esq., 64 Churst.. Drive, Morden, Surrey’, nearly extremely fine (3) £300-£400

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, A Collection of Medals to Second World War Royal Air Force Casualties.

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John James Clifton served during the Second World War as a Wireless Operator/Air Gunner with 150 Squadron, flying Wellingtons. His first operational sortie was on 19 May 1942 when they were detailed to attack St Nazaire Docks. He subsequently took part in the first Thousand Bomber Raid on Cologne on 30-31 May 1942, and the second Thousand Bomber Raid on Essen on 1-2 June 1942.

Clifton was killed in action when Wellington X3674, piloted by Flight Sergeant T. Kay, crashed at Benschop, 14km south-west of Utrecht, presumably having either been hit by flak or shot-down by a night-fighter, whilst on a raid to the Krupps Works at Essen on 5-6 June 1942. All the crew were killed.

Clifton is buried in Amersfoort (Old Leusden) General Cemetery, Holland. His medals were sent to his father, Samuel Clifton.

Sold with copied research.