Groups and Single Decorations for Gallantry 156
A Second War ‘Immediate’ D.F.M. group of six awarded to Flight Lieutenant Jack Edwards, 142 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Distinguished Flying Medal,
G.VI.R. (1317475 Sgt. J. Edwards. R.A.F.); 1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star, 1 clasp, France and Germany; Africa Star, 1 clasp, North Africa 1942-43; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf, good very fine and better (6)
£2,400-£2,800
D.F.M. London Gazette 19 March 1943: ‘Edwards, Jack. 1317475 Sergeant, No. 142 Squadron (Immediate). Joint citation with Sqn. Ldr. James Frederick Henry Booth (37958), No. 142 Squadron (Awarded Immediate D.F.C.); and 911963 L.A.C. James Arthur Skingsley, No. 142 Squadron (Awarded Immediate D.F.C.):
‘One night in January 1943, Squadron Leader Booth, Sergeant Edwards and Leading Aircraftman Skingsley were captain, bomb aimer and acting flight engineer respectively of an aircraft which attacked the docks at Bizerta. Shortly after its bombs were released the aircraft was subjected to a series of attacks by an enemy fighter, sustaining much damage before the attacker was driven off. The starboard engine was hit and burst into flames, the hydraulic system rendered useless and the rear turret and other equipment damaged; in addition, a portable oxygen bottle was set on fire. The aircraft began to lose height and the situation appeared hopeless. The captain ordered his crew to prepare to abandon aircraft. Leading Aircraftman Skingsley, ignoring his parachute pack, however, attempted to extinguish the flames from the oxygen bottle. Sergeant Edwards came to his assistance and together they grasped the blazing bottle with their bare hands, carried it to the escape hatch and hurled it out. The fire in the engine and in the main plane subsided and Squadron Leader Booth decided to attempt to fly the bomber home. All moveable equipment, including guns and ammunition, was jettisoned in an effort to maintain height. Although the aircraft was difficult to control, Squadron Leader Booth succeeded in flying it to base where he made a successful crash-landing in the face of extremely harassing circumstances. These members of aircraft crew displayed courage and devotion to duty in keeping with the highest traditions of the Royal Air Force.’
The original recommendation for Edwards’ Immediate D.F.M. adds a little more detail: ‘Sergeant Edwards was the Bomb Aimer of the crew detailed to attack Bizerta docks on the night of 18th January, 1943. After dropping their bombs, they were attacked by a Ju.88 night fighter. After the fourth attack, the starboard engine was on fire, the rear turret knocked out, airspeed indicator and flaps damaged and the portable oxygen bottle amidships on fire. The machine also began to lose height rapidly. Despite this Sergeant Edwards very gallantly stayed in his turret until ordered by the Captain to take up position for bailing out. On leaving the turret, he immediately went to the fire amidships and with complete disregard for his personal safety and ignoring his parachute pack, he proceeded to help put out the blazing oxygen bottle, getting his hands severely burnt. He also assisted the Flight Engineer to lighten the aircraft by jettisoning all the removable equipment. By his prompt action, Sergeant Edwards undoubtedly helped his Captain to save the crew and aircraft. Sergeant Edwards has completed 23 successful sorties and his devotion to duty at all times has been outstanding and an example to his comrades in the squadron. Very strongly recommended for an immediate award of the Distinguished Flying Medal.’
M.I.D. London Gazette 8 June 1944
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