AWARDS TO N.Z. AIRMEN

Press, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23248, 7 February 1941, Page 9

AWARDS TO N.Z. AIRMEN

(Received February 6, 7.30 p.m.) LONDON, February 5. The official citation accompanying the award of the D.F.C. to ActingFJight Lieutenant John James McKay, of Nelson, says Acting-Flight Lieutenant McKay has completed 37 operational missions since the outbreak of war. These have included operations over Germany, Italy. France, Norway, and the Low Countries. He is exceptionally keen, his work as a heavy bomber pilot being in the highest category. His courage and determination in pressing home attacks regardless of opposition have been outstanding. The citation accompanying the award of the D.F.C. to Flying Officer G. K. Larney, of Hamilton, says Flying Officer Larney has been continually employed on active operations, at first as a pilot and later as captain of an aircraft. Since the beginning of 1940. he has participated in 30 major bombings over enemy and enemy-oc-cupied territory in addition to several other operational missions. He has always shown the greatest determination in locating his targets and pressing home his attacks. He has gained the complete confidence of his crew by his efficiency and devotion to duty. The citation accompanying the award of the D.F.C. to Flying Officer K. W. Tait, of Wellington, says Flying Officer Tait last August led a section in an attack against a large formation of enemy fighters. He succeeded in destroying two. Flying Officer Tait has displayed exceptional courage and devotion to duty over a long period in operations, both in France and England. He has destroyed at least six enemy aeroplanes.