REASONS FOR D.S.O.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 85, Issue 221, 19 September 1941, Page 5

REASONS FOR D.S.O.

FLYING-OFFICER PRICHARD SKILFUL LANDING OF DAMAGED PLANE (Press Assn.) Wellington, Sept. IS. Air Headquarters, Wellington, has received the following particulars concerning the award of the Distinguished Service Order to FlyingOfficer David Leatham Prichard, R.A.F. The official citation states:— “One night in June, 1941, this officer carried out an attack against Cologne. While some distance from his target, and when on the edge of a dense belt of searchlights through which he had just flown, FlyingOfficer Prichard’s aircraft was attacked by an enemy lighter which opened lire from very close range. A cannon shell damaged his engine, almost severing one of the airscrew blades while the rear gun turret was put out of action. Although forced to fly at reduced speed,- with subsequent loss of height, and all the powers of defence gone, Flying-Officer Prichard continued his mission, overcoming almost insuperable difficulties before finally dropping his bombs in the target area. Despite an harassing return journey, he skilfully flew back to base, where he successfully crash-landed the aircraft without injury to his crew. “On a previous occasion FlyingOfficer Prichard displayed great flying skill which enabled his crew to shoot down an enemy lighter which attacked his aircraft when returning from a successful attack on Brest. Throughout numerous operational flights in which he has participated, this officer has displayed high courage, skill and devotion to duty.”