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Tippett, John

Service number:
538806
Nationality:
British (1801-present, Kingdom)

Biography

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Leading Aircraftman
Unit:
No. 110 (Hyderabad) Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:
January 30th, 1940
"This airman was the gunner of one of a formation of bomber aircraft which was attacked by enemy fighters over the North Sea in January, 1940. As the aircraft held - a vulnerable position in the formation, Leading Aircraftman Tippett's task was one of great danger and responsibility, and yet he showed great skill and coolness in handling his gun and greatly assisted in repelling the enemy attacks throughout the engagement. "
Distinguished Flying Medal (DFM)
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Sergeant
Awarded on:
December 20th, 1940
"On the 8th June 1940, Pilot Officer Arderne, Sergeant Rodson and Sergeant Tippett were the crew of a Blenheim aircraft engaged on low flying attacks on the neighbourhood of Amiens. The aircraft was attacked by two Messerschmitts and was so damaged that the pilot was forced to land in a sector of the British line held by the 2/7th battlion of the Duke of Wellington's regiment in Bethune. In spite of this they were in excellenet spirits and were attached to the regiment pending their transfer to Rouen. Before this could be effected, however, the enemy broke through the French line and occupied Rouen. The Army unit became involved in intense fighting and throughout the action, Pilot Officer Arderne Sergeant Robson and Sergeant Tippett were engaged in manning and firing an anti-aircraft light machine gun in the open. During this time they displayed great coolness and initiative and set a fine example to the men of the battalion. Later in the action, Pilot Officer Arderne was given command of a platoon owing to shortage of officers in the battalion. Pilot Officer Aderne, Sergeant Robson and Sergeant Tippett displayed great courage and initiative in adapting themselves so readily to a role for which they were completely untrained. The senior remaining officer of the Army unit concerned has written to commend the behaviour of the whole crew and to congratulate the Commanding Officer on the excellence of the officer and non-commissioned officers concerned."
Mentioned in Dispatches

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