Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Second World War D.F.C. and Bar pair awarded to Squadron Leader J. B. Miller, Royal Air Force, late Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, who completed two operational tours as a Navigator, latterly in No. 460 (R.A.A.F.) Squadron, with whom he attacked Berchtesgaden, the location of Hitler’s “Eagle’s Nest”, in April 1945

Distinguished Flying Cross, G.VI.R., reverse officially dated 1944, with Second Award Bar, reverse officially dated 1945; General Service 1918-62, G.VI.R., 2 clasps, Malaya, Near East (Flt. Lt. J. B. Miller, R.A.F.) good very fine (2) £1800-2200

D.F.C. London Gazette 15 August 1944.

The original recommendation states: ‘Pilot Officer James Bowie Miller, R.A.F.V.R., No. 192 Squadron (Navigator; sorties 33; flying hours 213). Throughout a tour of duty as a Navigator, this officer has shown consistent courage and zeal. On one occasion, when an engine of his aircraft failed 300 miles from land, he coolly continued working and accurately navigated the bomber back to the nearest airfield.’

Bar to D.F.C. London Gazette 26 October 1945.

The original recommendation states: ‘Flying Officer, No. 460 Squadron, R.A.A.F., Flying Officer Miller is a Navigator who has completed his second tour of 28 operations with Bomber Command. These include attacks on such heavily defended targets as Dortmund (2), Duisburg, Essen, Cologne, Munich, and Hamburg. His first tour consisted of 32 sorties involving 211 hours flying. Flying Officer Miller has shown outstanding ability both in the air and on the ground, and has been an inspiration to the entire Squadron. His devotion to duty, courage, and navigational skill have done much to foster a high standard of navigation on the Squadron.

This officer completed his second tour of operations with a first tour crew and repeatedly applied for extensions to allow him to complete the tour with this crew. His fine offensive spirit, determination and cheerful confidence materially assisted his captain in successfully attaining his objectives.’

James Bowie Miller, who was born in April 1921, was first commissioned in September 1943, soon after commencing his first tour of operations with No. 192 Squadron, a tour that lasted until the end of March 1944. His second tour was with No. 460 (R.A.A.F.) Squadron and lasted from 17 December 1944 to 25 April 1945, on which day he participated in the famous strike against Berchtesgaden, the location of Hitler’s “Eagle’s Nest” in Bavaria.

Miller remained in the R.A.F. after the War, gained advancement to Squadron Leader in January 1955 and was placed on the Retired List in October 1961.