AIR CAPTAINS’ SKILL

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXI, Issue 21549, 31 October 1944, Page 4

AIR CAPTAINS’ SKILL

N.Z. OFFICERS DECORATED COURAGE • (P.A.) WELLINGTON. Oct. 30Resourcefulness and leadership qualities were emphasised in recent awards of the Distinguisned Flying Cross and Distinguished Flying Medal respectively to two New Zealand aircraft captains, Flying Officer William Pembroke Bell, Takapau. and Pilot Officer Eldrid Duke O’Callaghan. Dunedin. TJie citations state that Flying Officer Bell captained an aircraft engaged on an operational mission, and when lie was close to the enemy coast the aircraft was hit by antiaircraft fire. The rear-gunner was wounded and later one engine became detective.

“While out over the sea,” the citation continues, “two more engines became useless and Flying Officer Bell was compelled to bring the aircraft down on the sea. This he accomplished with great skill. The crew got safely aboard the dinghy, from which they were rescued by launch one and a-half hours later. In these trying circumstances Flying ■Officer Bell displayed courage and leadership of a high degree. Flying Officer Bell is 32 years of age, and his mother is Mrs. M. F. H. Bell. Havelock North.

Pilot Officer O’Caliaghan’s award resulted from a daring attack on Russelheim in August. “His aircraft was illuminated in a cone of searchlights and heavilv attacked by enemy anti-aircraft fire,” the citation states. “When taking violent evasive action, both ailerons snapped. Despite this. Pilot Officer O'Callaghan flew back to the base where he effected a masterly landing Bv Iris skill and resourcefulness he undoubtedly saved a valuable aircraft and crew. He is a most keen and efficient captain.” Pilot Officer O’Callaghan, who is 24 years old, comes from Dunedin. Bomb-aimer Carries On Advice has been received by the Air Department of the immediate reward of. the Distinguished Flying Cross to Flying Officer Ronald Desmond Mayhill, Auckland. Flying Officer Mayhill, whose mother, Mrs. R. G. Mayhill. resides in Remuera. is 21 years of age. ; He joined the Air Force in July, 1942, after nine months as a member of the Air Training Corps. The citation states: “During a daylight attack on Pont Remy the aircraft of which Flying Officer Mayhill was bomb-aimer was hit by antiaircraft fire during the bombing run. Flying Officer Mayhill was injured and temporarily blinded in one eye. brit insisted on the captain making a further bombing run, on which the target was successfully attacked. He showed outstanding devotion to duty and courage.