NEW ZEALAND PILOTS’ RECORD

Southland Times, Issue 24162, 26 June 1940, Page 4

NEW ZEALAND PILOTS’ RECORD

THIRTEEN DECORATIONS In the quickened tempo of the war in Europe, New Zealanders who are serving with the Royal Air Force continue to play a prominent part, and a summary of casualty lists since September reveals the gallant sacrifices they are making in the cause of the Allies. It is estimated that at least 500 New Zealanders are members of bomber, fighter, and reconnaissance squadrons based in France and England.

Since the outbreak of war more than 70 New Zealand pilots have been reported as killed, missing, or missing and believed killed. Some of these were fatally injured in aircraft accidents, but the majority failed to return from air operations against the enemy. In addition, at least seven officers and men have been seriously injured, and a further four have been stated to be either prisoners of war or to be interned.

New Zealand pilots have been conspicuous for their gallantry. There have been 11 awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross to officers, while another pilot was awarded the Distinguished Service Order for service in Palestine, and a corporal from Picton won the Distinguished Flying Medal. Two of the decorated pilots— Pilot Officer K. N. Gray, of Gisborne, and Flying Officer E. J. Kain, of Wellington—have since lost their lives.