Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Pilot Officer

Unit:

No. 44 (Rhodesia) Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

July 18th, 1941

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Flying Officer

Unit:

No. 83 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

April 10th, 1942

On 12th February, 1942, this officer was the captain of an aircraft which participated in an attack on German battleships at sea. When nearing the objectives, his aircraft was attacked by 3 enemy fighters. The rear gunner was wounded in the hand and chest but he opened fire on one of the attackers, causing it to dive away. It was then shot down by the front gunner. Although another of the fighters was shot down, Flying Officer Smith's aircraft had sustained much damage. The starboard wing was pierced by a cannon shell, the starboard rudder shot away in shreds and other damage was sustained. Nevertheless, by a fine display of airmanship, Flying Officer Smith succeeded in flying the aircraft safely back to this country where he made a safe landing. In the face of difficult circumstances, this officer displayed great skill and courage."

Second DFC received as bar on the ribbon of the first award.