HARASSING FLIGHT

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 20860, 12 August 1942, Page 5

HARASSING FLIGHT

37 HOURS IN DINGHY D.F.M. FOR SERGEANT (P.A.) WELLINGTON, this day. It was officially announced to-day that the Distinguished Flying Medal lias been awarded to Flight Sergeant Valentine Stuart Moore. Flight Sergeant Mooi’e was born in New Plymouth and educated at the Taumarunui District High Shcool. His wife resides at 24 Enfield street, Mount Eden. The citation states than one night in June he captained an aircraft, successfully .attacking ''Bremen in bad weather. During the return, to avoid heavy clouds, he descended to about 300 ft., enabling the gunners to machine-gun towns and factories. After crossing the enemy coast considerable anti-aircraft fire was encountered from three armed ships. The starboard engine of the plane was hit and set on fire, but Flight Sergeant Moore turned and attacked the ships. The fire had now spread and he was compelled to alight on the water. On the impact the nose of the aircraft dived steeply into the water, but Flight Sergeant Moore and two members of the crew were able to scramble out and board a dinghy, from which they were rescued some 37 hours later. In the face of harassing circumstances Flight Sergeant Moor displayed great courage and fortitude.