Smith, Gavin Strang

Date of birth:: June 23rd, 1921 (Burnside Farm/Perthshire, UK)
Date of death:: June 17th, 1944
Buried on:: Commonwealth War Graves General Cemetery Varsseveld
Plot: A. Grave: 10.
Service number:: 108543
Nationality:: British

Biography

13-09-1941: Pilot Officer on Prob. (Emerg.)
13-09-1942: Pilot Officer on Prob.
13-09-1943: Squadron Leader (WS)

Squadron Leader. No. 550 Squadron RAF.

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Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Flying Officer
Unit:: No. 142 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:: December 29th, 1942

"As captain of aircraft Flying Officer Smith is always undeterred by the strongest enemy defences or adverse weather. By his fine offensive spirit this officer has inspired a high standard of morale in the squadron.

On one occasion, F/O Smith was detailed to make an attack on a factory in Northern France. On his first run over the target, technical trouble developed with the bombing panel. This was repaired and, although severely harassed by searchlights and anti-aircraft fire, he descended to 1500 feet before releasing his bombs."