Orders, Decorations and Medals

A Second World War Immediate D.F.M. group of five awarded to Sergeant J. Frankland, a Mid-Upper Gunner with No. 195 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Distinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. (1597723 Sgt., R.A.F.); 1939-45 Star; France & Germany Star; Defence & War Medals, good very fine (5) £800-1000

D.F.M. London Gazette 6 March 1945: Joint citation with A/Flt./Lt. G. F. Bale, R.N.Z.A.F., and Sgt. F. C. Williams, R.A.F.V.R., 195 Squadron. ‘This officer and these airmen were pilot, mid-upper and rear gunners respectively in an aircraft detailed to attack Witten in December, 1944. On the outward flight, the aircraft was subjected to a series of attacks by fighters. In the first attack the bomber sustained damage to the rudder and two petrol tanks were pierced. As the enemy aircraft came in again, Sergeants Frankland and Williams defended their aircraft with great resolution and were responsible for the destruction of one of the attackers. The bomber was repeatedly hit and sustained further damage. Although both turrets had been rendered unserviceable and had to be operated manually, these gunners shot down a second enemy aircraft. Throughout the fights, Flight Lieutenant Bale co-operated splendidly with his gunners and his skilful manoeuvring enabled them to deliver effective fire. Despite the damage sustained, this pilot went on to the target and executed his bombing attack. He afterwards flew back to an airfield in Allied territory. This officer and these airmen set a splendid example of skill, courage and devotion to duty in the face of great danger.’

The original recommendation for these awards describes how their Lancaster was subjected to five attacks by enemy fighters. In the second attack, the gunners destroyed an FW-190, and in the third an Me-410, both aircraft being officially confirmed as destroyed, having been seen to crash to the ground by other crews in the formation. After bombing their target they landed on a field in Belgium. Sergeant Frankland was a sand blast operator in civilian life and was from Keighley in Yorkshire. Sold with further details including copies of the original recommendations.