Last week we said goodbye to our father. the following is a copy of the citation he received when he was awarded his DFC (Distinguished Flying Cross)BYERS, Flying Officer, Ian Hamilton, DFC.
NZ428186; Born Shannon, 30 September 1917; RNZAF 16 July 1942 to 24 December 1945; Pilot.
Citation Distiguished Flying Cross (Imm) (2 March 1945): [61 Sqn RAF (Lancaster)]
Also DFM – F/S G F Cartwright, 1800047, RAFVR, Wireless Operator.
One night in December, 1944, this officer was pilot in an aircraft detailed to attack Giessen. Just as the bombs had been released a shell burst very close to the aircraft which sustained much damage. A few minutes later, the bomber was struck by a stream of bullets from an enemy aircraft. The mid-upper gunner was killed. His turret was set on fire, the port wing also caught alight, sending a long trail of flames along the fuselage. The wireless operator (air), with complete disregard of his own safety, made great efforts to subdue the flames in the mid-upper turret. His hands were burnt but he worked heroically. Finally he succeeded in quelling the flames. Fortunately, the fire in the port wing had now died down. Thereupon Flying Officer Byers, who, during the most harassing period had displayed the greatest coolness at the controls, decided to attempt to reach allied territory. Ably assisted by the fixers the wireless operator obtained on his wireless apparatus, he reached an airfield where he effected a safe landing in the face of great difficulties. This officer displayed skill and courage of a high standard.
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