A Second War D.F.M. group of five awarded to Air Gunner Flight Sergeant A. Massey, Royal Air Force, who completed 29 operational sorties, 21 of theses against heavily defended targets in Germany, and on one occasion destroyed an Me109 in aerial combat.
Distinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. officially named to: 649458. F/Sgt. A. Massey. R.A.F.
1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45 unnamed as issued.
Traces of lacquer, nearly extremely fine.
D.F.M. London Gazette 13 October 1944:
‘In recognition of gallantry displayed in flying operations against the enemy.’
The original Recommendation, dated 2 July 1944, states: ‘Flight Sergeant Massey has completed 29 sorties against the enemy, 21 of these against heavily defended targets in Germany. On several occasions his aircraft has suffered damage and at all times his coolness and courage in the face of enemy fire has been an inspiration to his crew. He has had several combats with enemy fighters and on one occasion destroyed an Me109. His devotion to duty at all times set a good example to his fellow gunners and as a crew member he inspired the greatest confidence. This N.C.O. is recommended for the award of the Distinguished Flying Medal.
Remarks by Station Commander: Flight Sergeant Massey is a thoroughly competent and reliable Air Gunner and by his skill and determination has contributed to the success of his crew and to the safe completion of an operational tour. His ability and spirit have been a fine example to his unit. He is strongly recommended for the award of the D.F.M.’
Alan Massey enlisted in the Royal Air Force and served during the Second World War as an Air Gunner in 51 Squadron (Halifaxes). His first operational sortie was to Hamburg on 29 July 1943; further targets over the next year included Mannheim (twice), Nuremberg (twice), Milan, Peenemunde, Munchen-Gladbach, Modane, Hannover, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Leipzig, Stuttgart, Lille, and four sorties to the ‘Big City’ Berlin.
The sortie to Munchen-Gladbach on the night of 29-30 August 1943 was particularly noteworthy: ‘02:31 hrs 25 miles north Hassett. No moon, 10/10th cloud, odd searchlights and red fighter flares burning for about a minute. Me109 seen with white flashing light in nose 800 yards on port beam. Appeared to be coming in to attack and Halifax turned to port. Rear Gunner [Massey] fired 300 rounds when enemy aircraft was on port quarter. Caught fire and immediately went down. Mid Upper Gunner fired 100 rounds and saw strikes when enemy aircraft was already on fire. Me109 disappeared through cloud and appeared to explode under the cloud. Claimed as destroyed.’ (Squadron Operational Record Book refers).
Massey’s final operational sortie was to St. Maritn l’Hortier on 17 June 1944, and for his services during the Second World War was awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal.
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Product Code: EM3215
