AWARDED THE D.F.C.
AN INVERCARGILL AIRMAN (N.Z.P.A. Special Correspondent) LONDON, Aug. 9. The Distinguished Flying Cross has been awarded to Squadron _ Leader John Checketts, of Invercargill, commanding officer of the New Zealand Spitfire Squadron. Squadron Leader Checketts has shot down seven Germans, all within recent months. After a long period as pilot officer he suddenly leapt into prominence as a firstclass fighter pilot. Wing Commander Alan Deere is of ‘the opinion that Squadron Leader Checketts is among the best commanding officers who have led the New Zealand Spitfire Squadron.
Wing Commander W. V. C. Compton, D.F.C. and bar, of Mission Bay, has been awarded the Silver Star by General Eaker, commanding officer U.S.A.A.F. in Britain, for his work in escorting Flying Fortresses over France.
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Bibliographic details
Otago Daily Times, Issue 25301, 11 August 1943, Page 3
Word Count
124AWARDED THE D.F.C. Otago Daily Times, Issue 25301, 11 August 1943, Page 3
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