Orders, Decorations and Medals

A Second World War D.F.M. to Sergeant W. Knox, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve

Distinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. (1590748 Sgt., R.A.F.), replacement and defective suspension, sometime brooch mounted ?, some letters re-engraved, edge bruising, good fine £600-800

D.F.M. London Gazette 20 February 1945. ‘1590748 Sergeant William Knox, R.A.F.V.R., 158 Sqn.’

Recommendation states: ‘Air Gunner, 158 Squadron, Total hours flown on operations: 170.36, No. Sorties: 39’.

‘On the night of 12th/13th August 1944, Sergeant Knox was mid-upper gunner of a Halifax III aircraft detailed to carry out an attack on the German city of Brunswick. Shortly after crossing the enemy coast on the way to this distant target, a Junkers 88 came in to attack. Immediate combat manoeuvre was taken but the enemy aircraft was extremely accurate and his first burst of cannon fire hit the bomber. The pilot took further combat manoeuvre and this allowed Sergeant Knox in the mid-upper turret to get his sights on the enemy aircraft. The Junkers’ cannon fire was still crashing through and past the Halifax when Sergeant Knox retaliated with a burst of fire which hit the enemy aircraft and caused it to break away and discontinue the attack. The vigilance of Sergeant Knox and his colleagues prevented further attacks and their aircraft was then able to carry on to complete its bombing mission. In the face of the enemy’s fire, Seregeant Knox revealed the highest qualities of coolness and courage and his accurate fire was probably the means of saving his aircraft and crew from destruction. Throughout a tour of many hazards, this N.C.O. has shown consistent keenness to fly against the enemy and his fine offensive spirit and fearlessness did much to maintain the high morale of his crew. It is recommended that his excellent work and courage during 39 operational sorties be recognised by the award of the Distinguished Flying Medal. [Dated] 16th November 1944’.

Remarks of the Air Officer Commanding: ‘The cool and alert conduct of Sergeant Knox on this occasion and the accuracy of his aim was largely responsible for the safe return of the aircraft and crew. He has always shown keenness and efficiency and for his fine spirit, courage and vigilance, he is recommended for the non-immediate award of the Distinguished Flying Medal’.

Sold with copied recommendation and list of sorties.