N.Z. AIRMEN DECORATED

Press, Volume LXXIX, Issue 23891, 9 March 1943, Page 6

N.Z. AIRMEN DECORATED

D.F.C. FOR CHRISTCHURCH NAVIGATOR (P.A.) WELLINGTON, March 8. The award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to three more New Zealanders was announced to-day. The awards are to: — Itolph-Smith, Flight Lieutenant Desmond Malcolm, who received the White Eagle of Jugoslavia (First Class) last year. His father is Mr C. E. Rolph-Smith, Auckland. Ilesketh, Flying Officer Cederic Rossal. His father is Mr H. R. Hesketh, Auckland. Newall, Flying Officer Douglas Watson. His wife is Mrs C. M. Newall, Christchurch. The citations state; “Flight Lieutenant Rolph-Smith has completed many hours of operational flying, involving long, arduous flights over mountainous areas in extremely adverse weather. He has always shown great skill, fortitude, and unflagging devotion to duty.” “Flying Officer Hesketh one day this year participated in a fight with enemy aircraft, in the course of which his commanding officer’s aircraft developed engine trouble. Flying Officer Hesketh covered the disabled aircraft until it was safely down on the sea, and then returned to attack, bringing down two enemy fighters in two minutes. Throughout he displayed great courage and tenacity.” “Flying Officer Newall, as navigator, has completed many operations, including attacks on most of the heavilydefended objectives in Germany, and at all times has obtained outstanding results. His great skill in navigation and his determination to find his target, in spite of opposition, has proved an inspiration to all.” Flight Lieutenant Rolph-Smith joined the Royal Air Force in 1939. Flying Officers Hesketh and Newall are members of the Royal Now Zealand Air Force.