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Kelly, Phillip

Date of death:
November 21st, 1944
Buried on:
Commonwealth War Cemetery Reichswald Forest
Plot: 13. Row: E. Grave: 1.
Service number:
130515
Nationality:
British

Biography

Flew 31 operations with 49Sqn

Phillip Kelly was navigator on board of Lancaster PB300 (EA-K) which was detailed to bomb the Mittelland Canal at Gravenhorst.
It has been speculated that one of the other two aircraft exploded after being hit by bombs or light flak, which in turn caused the Lancaster on which Kelly flew to also explode.

Promotions
? Leading Aircraftman
27 October, 1942: Pilot Officer on Probation
27 April, 1943: Flying Officer on Probation (war sub)
6 October, 1944: Flight Lieutenant (war sub)

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Acting Flight Lieutenant
Unit:
No. 49 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:
August 13th, 1943
Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Flying Officer
Unit:
No. 617 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:
June 9th, 1944
Citation:
"Since being awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross this officer has completed very many sorties against dangerous and difficult targets. Throughout he has displayed navigational ability of the highest standard which has contributed in a large measure to the successes obtained. On a recent occasion, Flying Officer Kelly was the navigator of an aircraft which attacked Munich. In spite of •heavy anti-aircraft fire and much searchlight activity, Flying Officer Kelly coolly and skilfully directed his captain to the precise target which was successfully attacked. This officer has invariably displayed a high degree of courage and his record is worthy of the greatest praise. "

Second DFC awarded as a bar.
Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)

Sources

Photo