Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Second War ‘1940’ Bristol Blenheim air gunner’s D.F.M. awarded to Corporal Arthur Daley, Royal Air Force, serving with No 57 Squadron, part of the R.A.F. component of the B.E.F. in France when, ‘on one recent occasion when attacked and pursued by 18 enemy fighters, he kept up a continuous fire and is believed to have accounted for two’; he was later commissioned as Flying Officer and was killed in action when his Lancaster III of No 103 Squadron was shot down over Denmark in April 1943

Distinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. (551341 Cpl. A. Daley, R.A.F.) mounted on original investiture pin, toned, nearly extremely fine £1,800-£2,200

D.F.M. London Gazette 23 July 1940:
‘For gallantry and devotion to duty in the execution of air operations.’

The recommendation, dated 13 May 1940, states: ‘As Wireless Operator/Air Gunner in “A” Flight, No. 57 Squadron, this N.C.O. has always displayed a keenness and willingness for duty which has commanded the respect and admiration of his brother Air Gunners. On one recent occasion when attacked and pursued by 18 enemy fighters, he kept up a continuous fire and is believed to have accounted for two.’

Equipped with Bristol Blenheims, No. 57 Squadron went to France in September 1939 as part of the Air Component of the B.E.F. in France for strategical and reconnaissance duties. Following the invasion of France and the Low Countries in May 1940, bombing once again became its primary role. With the advance of the German armies the squadron had to retreat, although even in retreat it took every opportunity to hit back. From Rosières it went to Poix, and from Poix to Crécy. Then, on 19th and 20th May, the squadron returned to England and on the 21st reassembled at Wyton, Huntingdonshire.

Arthur Daley was appointed Pilot Officer on probation, 30 December 1941 (47871), and promoted to Flying Officer (Air Gunner) on 1 October 1942. Appointed to No. 103 Squadron, he was killed in action on the night of 20/21 April 1943 when on a bombing operation against Stettin, his Lancaster III was shot down by a night fighter and crashed 0022 at Vester Vedsted, 7 km south-west of Ribe, Denmark. All seven of the crew are buried in Esbjerg (Fourfelt) Cemetery