Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

The mounted group of seven miniature dress medals worn by Group Captain W. D. G. Watkins, Royal Air Force

Distinguished Service Order, G.VI.R., silver-gilt and enamel, with integral top riband bar; Distinguished Flying Cross, G.VI.R.; Distinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R.; 1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star, 1 clasp, France & Germany; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf, mounted court-style as worn, the War Medal of uniface manufacture, generally very fine (7) £400-£500

D.S.O. London Gazette 7 November 1944.
The recommendation states: ‘Since being awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, this officer has participated in a large number of sorties. He has continued to display the highest standard of skill, courage and leadership, qualities which have been reflected in the efficiency and fine fighting spirit of the squadron he commands. His devotion to duty has been unfailing.’

D.F.C. London Gazette 4 December 1942.
The recommendation states: ‘Since being awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal this bomb aimer has participated in many operational sorties. In October, 1942, he took part in an attack on Genoa and made 4 runs over the target area to ensure his bombs would strike their objective. On a previous occasion he was detailed to act as navigator and bomb aimer on a sortie over Hamburg. Despite the terrifically heavy defences, he made 4 runs over the target and obtained 2 excellent photographs. Squadron Leader Watkins always displays great determination to locate and bomb the target. His coolness and courage under fire are outstanding and his devotion to duty has been a high example.’

D.F.M. London Gazette 7 June 1940.
The recommendation states: ‘Sergeant Watkins was the observer and bomb aimer in an aircraft which carried out an attack on a large convoy of enemy transport one night in May 1940. Five runs were made over the target, at heights between one thousand and fifteen hundred feet and in the face of anti-aircraft fire and continuous searchlight activity. Sergeant Watkins displayed great coolness and determination throughout the operation. He has been engaged in several other raids and has shown conduct in accordance with the highest traditions of the service. His bomb aiming and navigation have materially assisted in the success of the operation in which he has participated.’

M.I.D. London Gazette 24 September 1941.

Sold together with a named Empire Air Armament School, Royal Air Force Certificate named to ‘Acting Wing Commander W. D. G. Watkins, DSO. DFC. DFM., and dated 30 May 1945, mounted in a glazed display frame; the recipient’s Escape Compass; a pair of R.A.F. cuff-links; and a photograph of the recipient wearing his miniature medals.

For the recipient’s full sized awards, and a full account of his service, see Lot 7.