A rare Second World War South-East Asia operations A.F.M. group of five awarded to Flight Sergeant S. H. Lewthwaite, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, who completed a tour of operations in Catalinas

Air Force Medal, G.VI.R. (1135997 F./Sgt. S. H. Lewthwaite, R.A.F.); 1939-45 Star; Pacific Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, good very fine (5) £1600-1800

A.F.M. London Gazette 1 January 1945. The original recommendation states:

‘This airman has completed an operational tour on Catalina aircraft. He is a Flight Engineer of high merit and has proved himself to be a courageous and resolute member of his crew. He has shown inspiring coolness and courage and his enthusiasm and efficiency have been valuable assets to the Squadron.’

Sydney Herbert Lewthwaite was decorated for his services in No. 413 Squadron in South-East Asia, having completed 469 hours flying time in the six months previous to the recommendation for his A.F.M. Equipped with Catalinas, the Squadron operated out of assorted bases after arriving in Ceylon in March 1942, among them Addu Atoll, Port Victoria, Kipevu, Bahrain, Langebaan and Aden.