AWARDED D.F.M.

Evening Post, Volume CXXXVII, Issue 127, 31 May 1944, Page 6

AWARDED D.F.M.

WELLINGTON PILOT

SKILL AND COURAGE

For his skill and courage as pilot of a heavy bomber detailed to attack a target in France, Flight Sergeant Alan D. Gibson, of Wellington, has been awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal, according to advice received at Air Department, Wellington. "The objective was successfully attacked, but while over the area Flight Sergeant Gibson's aircraft was engaged by an enemy fighter," states the citation. "Early in the fight the mid-upper turret was put out of action. Coolly and skilfully, however, the rear gunner gave excellent combat manoeuvres to Flight Sergeant Gibson, who flew to a good position for the gunner to deliver a burst of fire which struck the attacker, causing the enemy aircraft to dive steeply to the ground, where it exploded on impact. i "In the engagement, Flight Sergeant Gibson's aircraft had sustained damage to the control surfaces. One of the tanks had been pierced and a quantity of petrol lost, while one engine was put out of action. Nevertheless, Flight Sergeant Gibson flew to an airfield in England. "When approaching the airfield at a height of about 2000 feet, the three remaining engines failed through lack, of petrol, but Flight Sergeant Gibson brought his aircraft safely down. He set a fine example of skill, courage, and determination." ■ Flight Sergeant Gibson, whose father, Mr. A. G. Gibson, lives at 163 Aro Street, Wellington, was born in Westport in 1923. Educated at the Technical College, Wellington, he was employed by an engineering firm as an apprentice fitter and turner before joining the R.N.Z.A.F. in 1941.