HONOURED AGAIN

Waikato Times, Volume 195, Issue 22457, 19 September 1944, Page 3

HONOURED AGAIN

GALLANT NEW ZEALANDER LONDON, Sept. 15 All New Zealand naval personnel and his many friends will be delighted to hear of the further honour bestowed on Lieutenant G. J. MacDonald, R.N.Z.N.V.R., of the Distinguished Service Order. Known affectionately to all as “Jim” MacDonald, this officer is indeed New Zealand’s coastal forces ace, as in addition to his latest award he possesses a D.S.C. and two Bars for outstanding work in various actions with the enemy. Lieutenant MacDonald was mobilised at the outbreak of the war, being then an active member of the Wellington division of the R.N.Z.N.V.R. After serving as a D.S.M.S. rating (gunner) he quickly gained promotion to commissioned rank, passing out top of his class with a first-class certificate. As he was already familiar with navigation in narrow seas and the handling of small craft it followed that he received specialised training in the coastal forces. Since then, nearly four years ago, he has taken part in many fierce encounters with the enemy, having had much more action than most coastal force officers of his age and seniority. His superior officers consider him an ideal motor torpedo boat captain, daring in action and always displaying courage and determination of a high order. Lieutenant MacDonald is« the son of Mr J. W. MacDonald, Commissioner of the Government Life Insurance Department in Wellington.