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Willans, Derek Alan

Date of death:
May 28th, 1941
Buried on:
Commonwealth War Graves Saint Mary Churchyard
Service number:
41089
Nationality:
British

Biography

Willans was killed on 28th May 1941 with 23. He was flying Havoc BB893 when it spun in during a low-level practice dogfight near RAF Manston. The air Gunner, Sgt. Gerald Johnson was killed too

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Flying Officer
Unit:
No. 23 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:
February 18th, 1941
Citation:
"This officer has completed forty-four operational flights by night, and four sorties to Northern France. One night in January, 1941, he displayed great courage in attacking an enemy aircraft over the aerodrome at Poix, continuing his attack down to 500 feet, although aware of the heavy anti-aircraft defences at this aerodrome. He has displayed great coolness and zeal in the performance of difficult and dangerous duties."
Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)

Sources

Photo