Pleased find attached a copy of my Father’s Flight Log Book.
This copy shows his first ops with 97 Squadron in early April 1943 from Woodhall Spa. Before his crew got settled in together.
My question for the forum is about Bale D.F.M. On the flights of April 1, 2 & 4 he is listed as F/Sgt. Bale D.F.M.
On the raids of April 10 & 13 he is listed as P/O Bale D.F.M.
Did Bale’s promotion come through in early April 1943?, and for what did he get his D.F.M.? His name does not appear again in the Flight Log Book.
By: Jimbo27 - 21st April 2007 at 16:01
The DFM register has the details from Air 2 / 9595.
F/Sgt Douglas William BALE. No 97 Sqdn, LG 11/8/42, sorties 35, flying hours 195.30, Air Gunner
“F/S Bale has completed 35 sorties against the enemy during which time he has shown constant keenness and ability.He took part in a low-level attack on the Dortmund-Ems canal and during this attack he was wounded in the head and both legs but was operating again in less than one month. On another occasion, when attacked by a fighter, his turret was put out of action and although he could no longer return the enemy’s fire, he remained in his turret to report the movements of the enemy aircraft. As a result the attack was successfully evaded”
This is dated 13th June 1942
Hope it helps.
Jim
By: David Layne - 21st April 2007 at 14:28
Thanks for the information. I see that the award was dated the same date as pilot Robert Fletcher received his. I would imagine it was for the completion of a tour.
By: avro683 - 21st April 2007 at 14:01
F/Sgt Douglas William BALE, 621402, RAF, was awarded the DFM, as F/Sgt, with 97 Sqn. No specific citation, other than the standard “For gallantry and devotion to duty in the execution of air operations.”
His commission to P/O, 51331, was promulgated in London Gazette 27/4/43, effective from 4/12/42. To F/O, 4/6/43, and F/Lt, 4/12/44. Awarded the DFC, as F/O, 619 Sqn. LG; 7/12/43. Standard citation. Transferred to the Admin & Special Duties Branch 17/7/45, as F/Lt.
Regards, Doug.
By: pimpernel - 21st April 2007 at 03:31
Thanks for the suggestion. I have found no referance to him there.
I was thinking of you dropping a line to the “contact us” and ask for their help.
Brian.
By: Jimbo27 - 21st April 2007 at 01:54
Bale DFM
Hi,
The details of Bale’s DFM award are in the DFM Register for the Second World War.
I’m knackered at the minute, too tired to type!
If no-one else does, I’ll post them here sometime over the w/end.
Cheers
Jim
By: David Layne - 21st April 2007 at 01:22
David.
Have you tried the 97 Squadron Association web site?
http://www.97squadronassociation.co.uk/contactus.htmlBrian.
Thanks for the suggestion. I have found no referance to him there.
By: pimpernel - 21st April 2007 at 00:31
David.
Have you tried the 97 Squadron Association web site?
http://www.97squadronassociation.co.uk/contactus.html
Brian.
Sign In
April 20, 2007 at 11:37 pm