British Groups

Lot 4056    The J.J.Atkinson Collection    British Groups

Estimate $4,500
Bid at live.noble.com.au
SOLD $13,000

GROUP OF FOUR TO SERGEANT DAVID DOUGAN CAIN, Royal Air Force Distinguished Flying Medal (GVIR) (542628. Sgt. D.D.Cain. R.A.F.); 1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star; British War Medal 1939-45. Distinguished Flying Medal named engraved, others unnamed. Very fine.

DFM: London Gazette 6 November 1945. 'In recognition of gallantry and devotion to duty in the execution of air operations. This airman has always displayed exceptional skill and courage in the accomplishment of his duties. One night in July 1940, he was detailed to participate in the attack on the German battleship Tirpitz. The battleship was lying in the inner harbour at Wilhelmshaven and the whole of the port area was heavily defended by anti-aircraft fire. Despite this, an attack was made at an extremely low level and Sergeant Cain's aircraft was shot down in flames. He was badly injured and taken prisoner of war.'

Together with Buckingham Palace forwarding letter for the Distinguished Flying Medal, together with two related Air Ministry letters; a Stalag Diary, inscribed 'Stalag Luft 1, Barth (contents virtually unused); two POW currency notes (lager geld); handwritten medical report dated 27 July 1942; two official passes for the recipient followng his repatriation in early 1944; RAF Statement of Service/Discharge as Warrant Officer (Air); photograph of recipient on his arrival back in the UK; newspaper cuttings - the majority of which relate to the announcement of the award of the the Distinguished Flying Medal; some further research and three woven service badges.