Tom,
maybe this is a hint:
‘PHILPOT, F/L Oliver Lawrence Spurling (77137) – Distinguished Flying Cross – No.42 Squadron – awarded as per London Gazette dated 1 July 1941. Born in Vancouver, 1913; in Oxford University Air Squadron, 1931-1934; commissioned in RAF, 1940. With No. 269 Squadron in October-November 1940, apparently on attachment as he was on strength of No.42 Squadron as of 7 October 1940. Shot down, taken prisoner, but escaped; author of Stolen Journey. Air Ministry Bulletin 4270 refers. AFRO 1380/44 dated 30 June 1944 (announcing his MC) identified him as a Canadian in the RAF. No citation to DFC other than “for gallantry and devotion to duty in the execution of air operations”. Public Record Office Air 2/8870 has recommendation dated 12 May 1941.
This officer was the pilot of a Beaufort aircraft taking part in a bombing attack on an enemy aerodrome and shipping in Norway on the night of 9/10th May 1941. In spite of considerable anti-aircraft fire and an enemy night fighter on his tail, he dived to about 200 feet and released his bombs, scoring hits in the target area. As he recovered from his dive, the aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire which killed the navigator and seriously wounded the wireless operator.
In spite of his compass having been hit also and rendered unserviceable, Pilot Officer Philpott brought his aircraft back and landed it safely on an aerodrome, even though the hydraulic controls had been shot away and he had the use of neither flaps nor undercarriage.
At the foot of this document is another note dated 12 May 1941, probably from the base commander:
I consider this crew deserving of special recognition. Each member displayed courage and determination of a high class. Their example must have effect on all here.
PHILPOT, F/L Oliver Lawrence Spurling (77137) – Military Cross – awarded as per London Gazette dated 16 May 1944, “in recognition of gallant and distinguished service.” Air Ministry Bulletin 13978/AL.791 refers.’
http://www.airforce.ca/canraf/CANRAF.M-R.html
Martin
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