BRAVERY IN THE AIR

Camp News, Volume 1, Issue 47, 1 November 1940, Page 3

BRAVERY IN THE AIR

Offensive Patrol Flights

PILOT OFFICER C. F. GRAY

Details of the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross recently to Pilot Officer Colin Falkland Gray, a New Zealander serving with the Royal Air Force, have been received by Air Headquarters. An extract from the notice states:

“Since, May, 1940, Pilot Officer Gray has flown continuously with his squadron on offensive patrols. He took part in numerous engagements against the enemy throughout the Dunkirk operations, and subsequently throughout intensive air operations over the Kentish coast and in protection of shipping in the Channel, He has shot down four Messerschmitt 109’s and, it is believed, destroyed a further four. He also assisted in destroying one Messerschmitt 109 and one Dornier 215. His example, courage, and determination in action have contributed materially in maintaining the high morale of his squadron.’’

Pilot Officer Gray is the twin brother or Pilot Officer Kenneth Neil Gray, who was also awarded the D.F.C. in January of this year. Pilot Officer K. N. Gray was later reported killed on active service.

Pilot Officer C. F. Gray was born in Christchurch and will be 26 years of age next month. He was educated at Christ’s College, Christchurch , Wellesley College, Wellington, and the Napier Boys’ High School, leaving the latter school after matriculating to enter a Napier firm of stock and station agents. In 1938 he was accepted for a short service commission with the Royal Air Force, leaving for the United Kingdom at the end of that year. His father is Mr. R. L. Gray, 115 Russell Street, Gisborne.