Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Warrant Officer

Unit:

No. 462 (RAAF) Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

May 14th, 1943

Citation:
"Warrant Officer Vertican has completed 40 sorties, involving attacks on targets in Greece, Crete and North Africa. He is a keen and skilful pilot whose determination to achieve success has set a fine example. On 1 occasion he captained an aircraft detailed to attack Leros. The objective was successfully bombed but, whilst still over the target area, 1 engine of his aircraft became unservicable. Despite this, he flew the bomber back to base. Owing to the presence of thick fog, which covered a wide area, Warrant Officer Vertican was unable to make a landing. Undeterred, he flew on searching for another landing ground. The situation became serious and all moveable equipment was jettisoned to assist in maintaining height. Warrant Officer Vertican eventually made a landing after a flight of more than 700 miles with 1 of the aircraft's 2 engines out of action. He displayed great courage and superb airmanship in very trying circumstances."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Warrant Officer

Unit:

No. 462 (RAAF) Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

July 6th, 1943

Citation:
"This captain of aircraft has taken part in operational missions against targets in Greece, Crete, Sicily and North Africa. While engaged on a sortie in May, 1943, the starboard inner engine of his aircraft failed, and Warrant Officer Vertican turned his aircraft and flew out to sea where the bombs were jettisoned. Soon the port inner engine failed and as the aircraft was gradually losing height all equipment possible was thrown overboard.
Deficient of power and battling against strong winds the bomber was soon forced down to a height of 1,000 feet when a third engine failed. Warrant Officer Vertican was now faced with a perilous situation but skilfully he brought the aircraft safely down on to a rough sea causing no injury to any of his crew all of whom successfully embarked in the dinghy. After 10,5 days the dinghy had drifted to shore. During all this time Warrant Officer Vertican organised the consumption of the meagre rations, and did all he could to maintain the spirit of his companions at a high level which contributed much to the survival of them all. Warrant Officer Vertican displayed great courage and fortitude throughout this hazardous experience."