FLYING CROSS AWARD

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXX, Issue 21150, 19 July 1943, Page 2

FLYING CROSS AWARD

dominion .airman

EXPLOITS IN BURMA

(P.A.) WELLINGTON. July 19. With the award of the'Distinguished Flying Cross to Warrant-OfficerHuon Andrew .Chandler, Royal Now Zealand Air Force, of Westport, Burma enters the already wide field where 'New Zealanders have won decorations ’ for gallantry in the air. “Warrant-Officer Chandler has taken part in many operational sorties over enemy territory in Burin a.” states official advice received oy the Air Department. ’He has made many low-level raids, involving flights of over 240 miles over hilly country. Three cf hi? attacks were carried but from a low level on the enemy aerodrome at Magwo in the face of fierce ground opposition. He has also taken part hi several night’attacks'. On one occasion he was forced to land .inst north of the enemy's lines after the envine of la is aircraft had been hit by anti-aircraft lire. Another time, when returning from an attack on the Japanese, his ammunition all gone, ho was set neon by Japanese fighters. He was wounded in the head, his aircraft was hit several times, but with fortitude and sk'll, he managed to got back safely. In air combat he has destroyed one enemy bomber. He has' always Dressed home hi; attack' with fearlessness r.nd determination and has set a magnificent example.”

Warrant-Officer Chandler’s father is Mr. H. Chandler, of North Beach, Westport.