Youthful Airman D.F.C.

Northern Advocate, 26 July 1943, Page 5

Youthful Airman D.F.C.

(P.A.) WELLINGTON. This Day. An action in which enemy ships were attacked in daylight and at liio same time defending aircraft were fought off. is a highlight in the operational career of Flight-Sergeant Francis Murray Llaslatt Henderson, R.N.Z.A.F., formerly of Whakatane. who has been awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal. Flight-Ser-geant Henderson who applied for enlistment in the airforce when aged !7f celebrated his 21st birthday only a few months ago. At the ago of 20, lie had shared in the destruction of an enemy aircraft. The citation states. “in October, 15)42, this airman took part in a daylight ouivatinn against .shipping. "Throughout the action when attacked by enemy fighters, he maintained an accurate fire and greatly assisted the fire controller with an admirably ecol commentary on the enemy's movements. Later in the same month he participated in a similar sortie in an, equally praiseworthy manner, sharing in destruction of an enemy aircraft. At all times he has been a most capable gunner, cool in action and a keen, efficient member of his crew.” Born at Putaruru and educated at Ur. rorua he was a member of a survey section of the Public Works Department. He commenced active service at the lieginning of 15>41 in night fighter aircraft. Last month he was in hospital with a serious illness but was later removed from the seriously ill list. His mother is Mrs. A. L. Henderson, of Whakatane.