Unique Distinction For Dunedin Airman

Manawatu Times, Volume 68, Issue 57, 9 March 1943, Page 3

Unique Distinction For Dunedin Airman

Per Press Association. WELLINGTON, March 6. With the award of the D.S.O. just made, Acting-Flight Lieutenant James Fraser Barron, D.F.C., D.F.M., R.N.Z.A.F., formerly of Wellington, enters a category exclusive to himself in tho roll of honour of the Royal New Zealand Air Force. Although not tho first member of the New Zealand air personnel overseas to be trebly decorated, he is tho first and the only New Zealander to be entitled to wear together the ribbons of the D. 5.0., D.F.C. and D.F.M. Flight Lieutenant Barron was 22 years of age in January and was born in Dunedin. His father is Mr. J. Barron, who lives at Palmerston (Otago). The official citation announcing the latest award, reads: “Flight Lieutenant Barron, during night operations lass month, was captain of an aircraft de tailed to attack Cologne. When nearing the target area, his aircraft was held in* searchlights and subjected to heavy fire from the ground defences. Flight Lieutenant Barron remained on his course, however, defying the intense barrage and pressed home a successful attack. On his second run over tho target in this operation he displayed exceptional gallantry and devotion to duty, thus setting an example of tho highest order. ’ ’