Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Flying Officer

Unit:

No. 61 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

January 12th, 1943

Citation:
"This officor has an outstanding record as an operational pilot. On one occasion be was captain of an aircraft which was engaged in mine-laying operations in daylight at sea. Despite intense anti-aircrafi fire, by, which his aircraft was damaged, he accomplished his mission successfully."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Flight Lieutenant

Unit:

No. 7 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

August 1st, 1944

Citation:
"One night in June, 1944, these, officers and warrant officer were captain, rear gunner and mid-upper .gunner respectively of an aircraft detailed to attack an enemy target. When nearing the enemy coast on the return flight, Flight Lieutenant Frow saw a Junkers 88 about to attack another aircraft of the bomber force. He immediately ordered his gunners to open fire. Flight Lieutenant Wharton and Warrant Officer Erasmus promptly delivered bursts of fire which struck the enemy aircraft, causing it to dive to the ground where it exploded. A few minutes later Flight Lieutenant Wharton sighted another fighter coming in to attack. He quickly warned his captain who manoeuvred to a good position from which Flight Lieutenant Wharton delivered a long burst of fire. His bullets struck the attacker which caught fire and dived earthwards. In the meantime, Warrant Officer Erasmus had sighted yet a third fighter on the starboard quarter. Although the inter-communication system was defective he managed to warn his captain and co-gunner and the latter drove off the attacker which had closed in. These members of aircraft crew displayed great skill, coolness and co-operation throughout this notable action. They have completed many sorties against dangerous and difficult targets.”

Second DFC awarded as a bar for on the ribbon of the first DFC.
Simultaneously awarded to Acting Flight Lieutenant Ernest Wharton, D.F.M. (135017) and Acting Warrant Officer Owen Glyndwa Erasmus (1314546).

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Acting Squadron Leader

Unit:

No. 7 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

October 24th, 1944

Citation:
"This officer has completed a second tour of operational duty during which he has been employed in the role of master bomber. He has pressed home his attacks with exceptional determination and his complete disregard for danger and extreme coolness have been a magnificent example to the members of his crew".

London Gazette dated Tuesday 24 October 1944.