N.Z. AIRMEN’S AWARDS

Grey River Argus, 16 January 1941, Page 5

N.Z. AIRMEN’S AWARDS

THEIR RECORDS OUTLINED. (Received January 15, 8.30 p.m.) LONDON January 14. The citation with the award, the D.F.C. to Flying Officer Guy Jerrold Menzies, reported in Tuesday’s Press Association telegram from Wellington, states: Flying Officer Menzies carried out seventeen operational sorties, totalling thirty-nine flying hours. As a. pilot he is possessed of a keen sense of duty, and makes every endeavour to reach his target, except when forced to return owing to adverse weather. He displayed great courage and determination.” The citation for Acting-Flight Lieutenant Ernie Clark states: He has been in command cf a reconnaissance unit flight since July Ist. During this period he carried out some twenty-five reconnaissances over occupied territory, the results obtained being of inestimable value to the intelligence staff and squadrons concerned. He displayed exceptional devotion to duty and splendid leadership. Acting Flight Lieutenant Leonard Ernie Clarke and Flying Officer Jerrold Menzies are both of Christchurch. Acting Flight Lieutenant Clarke is a son of the late Mr Leonard _E. Clarke, Thorrington Road, Christchurch, and is 35 years of age. in November, 1936, he flew solo from England to New Zealand, a feat performed successfully only by himself and Miss Jean Batten. He was the fifth pilot to fly the Tasman solo. Giving asi his reason for the flight that “he wanted to be home for the shearing.” he earned himself the nickname of th e “Flying Farmer.’ Flying Officer Menzies is a son of the late Mr Charles Menzies, 16 Jerrold Street, Christchurch, and is 20 years of arm.