AIR FORCE AWARDS.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LXII, Issue 217, 13 August 1942, Page 4

AIR FORCE AWARDS.

Witekever the British Fighter or Bomber Command is waging war New Zealanders are taking an important share of the offensive. The awards they have received for meritorious conduct under the most hazardous of conditions prove their skill and valour as airmen. The total has reached the impressive figure of 253 and some recipients have been awarded two and even three decorations. The record is one any country may be proud of. Three months ago the Minister of Defence announced with justifiable pride that the secoud century of awards had been reached, and in giving public information of the present total he pays a splendid tribute to the men who are receiving these well earned decorations. In the earlier days of the war the majority went to men who had left the Dominion to accept short-term commissions with the R.A.P. Then came the air _ training scheme in the Dominion and many young men were instructed here before going overseas. To-day their list of awards has grown greatly. Coming from all walks of life these 3 r oung men serve as pilots, air gunners, and observers, and all three branches have been honoured in the citations which accompany decorations. New Zealanders have proved themselves good airmen and some to-day bold high positions in _ the R.A.F. Wherever there is a target to be bombed or enemy fighters to be met in combat they are ready for the aerial adventure, counting not the cost but knowing that it is their duty.