I am looking for the citations for Squadron Leader James Booth (DFC), Sergeant Jack Edwards and Leading Aircraftman James Skingsley (DFM) in the London Gazette. They were members of the same crew and were awarded their DFC and DFM's for the same action. The problem I encountered is that their names are on one page of the LG (bottom of the right column) while the citation is on the next page and I can't find this particular page. This is the page I did find: https://www.thegazette.co.uk/London/issue/35946/supplement/1309/data.pdf Is there anybody who is better in searching the LG than I am and can help me finding the page I am looking for?
https://www.thegazette.co.uk/London/issue/35946/supplement/1309 The particular edition was the No 35946 Supplement At the time,No 142 Squadron were operating out of Blida with the Wellington 111. Interestingly that there was an LAC in the crew fulfilling an aircrew role...most probably an engine fitter upgraded on an ad hoc basis....minimum aircrew rank was Sergeant from the summer of 1940. The staffing of a BC Wellington would include a Second Pilot,not a Flight Engineer.The aircrew designation of Flight Engineer as LAC Skingsley is described as, became effective as the 4 engine heavies came into service with B.C.The Wellington never carried a designation of a Flight Engineer.So it looks that he was carrying out the role of assisting the pilot as appropriate to his mechanical capability in lieu of a Second Pilot.
Thanks lads! I also found his rank interesting Harry. But 142 Squadron had recently moved to North Africa and the regular air gunner had been killed on the previous operation. So I think he indeed might have been ground crew.
From the Distinguished Flying Medal Register Vol.1 by Ian Tavender 1317475 Sergeant Jack Edwards No. 142 Squadron, RAF Sorties 23 Flying Hours 140.20 Air Bomber Sergeant Edwards was the Bomb Aimer of the crew detailed to attack Bizerta docks on the night of 18th January 1943. After dropping their bombs, they were attacked by a Ju. 88 night fighter. After the fourth attack the starboard engine was on fire, the rear turret knocked out, air speed indicator and flaps damaged and the portable oxygen bottle amidships on fire. The machine also began to loose height rapidly. Despite this, Sergeant Edwards very gallantly stayed in his turret until ordered by the Captain to take up position for bailing out. On leaving the turret, he immediately went to the fire amidships and with complete disregard for his personal safety and ignoring his parachute pack, he proceeded to help put out the blazing oxygen bottle, getting his hands severely burnt. He also assisted the Flight Engineer to lighten the aircraft by jettisoning all the removable equipment. By his prompt action, Sergeant Edwards undoubtedly helped his Captain to save the crew and aircraft. Sergeant Edwards has completed 23 successful sorties and his devotion to duty at all times has been outstanding and an example to his comrades in his squadron. Very strongly recommended for an immediate award of the Distinguished Flying Medal. 20th January 1943
From the Distinguished Flying Medal Register Vol.2 by Ian Tavender 911963 Leading Aircraftman James Arthur Skingsley No. 142 Squadron, RAF Flight Mechanic (Engines) LAC Skingsley was acting Flight Engineer of the Wellington crew detailed to attack the Bizerta docks on 18th January 1943. After dropping it's bombs, the Wellington was attacked by a Ju. 88 Night Fighter. After the fourth attack, the starboard centre section was on fire, the rear turret knocked out, the hydraulics, air speed indicator and flaps unserviceable, also the portable oxygen bottle was on fire amidships. When the fighter had broken off his attack, the Captain had ordered the crew to come forward to prepare to bail out, but LAC Skingsley, with great gallantry and complete disregard for his own safety, ignored his parachute pack and attacked the blazing oxygen bottle. Being unable to put the fire out, he picked up the blazing bottle with his bare hands, carried it to the escape hatch and threw it out. He then proceeded to assist in lightening the machine by jettisoning all the removable equipment. LAC Skingsley's conduct throughout the attack was one of the highest order. By his prompt action in picking up the blazing bottle, he undoubtedly helped the Captain save the crew and aircraft. Very strongly recommended for the immediate award of the Distinguished flying Medal. 20th January 1943.
