AWARDED D.S.O.
Gallantry Of R.A.F. Pilot British Official Wireless RUGBY. June 9. Amongst the names of officers of the Royal Air Force awarded decorations is Flight-Lieutenant G. A. Leathart, who has been given the D.S.O. During May, this officer led a squadron on a large number of offensive patrols over northern France. On one occasion, an attack was made on a formation of no fewer than 60 enemy aircraft. In company with his squadron, he has shot down fifteen Messerschmitts, possibly one Heinkel 111, and one Junkers 88 during the month. He also flew a trainer aircraft to Calais aerodrome to rescue a squadron commander who had been shot down there, but was uninjured. Whilst he was taking off after the rescue, an attack was made by twelve Messerschmitt 109 s, but with great coolness and skilful, evasive tactics, he succeeded in shaking off the enemy, landing again without damage. Subsequently he took off and flew back to England unescorted.
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Bibliographic details
Timaru Herald, Volume CXLVIII, Issue 21677, 11 June 1940, Page 7
Word Count
160AWARDED D.S.O. Timaru Herald, Volume CXLVIII, Issue 21677, 11 June 1940, Page 7
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