Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Flight Sergeant

Unit:

No. 44 (Rhodesia) Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

January 25th, 1944

Original recommendation dated 4 January 1944:
"Flight Sergeant Howard has now completed an operational tour of 30 successful sorties as Flight Engineer. He has taken part in attacks on all the most formidable German targets including Berlin (4) and Cologne (3). On his first 19 trips, 16 of which were to the Ruhr when the battle of the Ruhr was at its height.

On the night of 29-30 December 1943, en route to Berlin, his aircraft was hit by flak, putting one engine out of action and so damaging the hydraulic system that the bomb doors could not be closed. Flight Sergeant Howard showed great initiative and resource in his endeavours to make the hydraulic system serviceable, spending approximately two hours on repairs to the hydraulic header tank. A great part of his time was spent gathering hydraulic fluid in the rear of the aircraft without heating and even without oxygen for some periods. Base was reached safely but, on final approach, the failed engine burst into flames. Prompt and efficient fire drill by this N.C.O. averted what might have been a disaster.

His conduct in the incident described above comes as no surprise to his crew or squadron colleagues to whom his selfless devotion to duty and complete disregard for personal safety have been an inspiration throughout his association with them. The same qualities of devotion and enthusiasm characterise his work on the ground where, as Deputy Flight Engineer Leader, he has spared no effort to increase the efficiency not only of himself but also his section.

I strongly recommend Flight Engineer Howard for an immediate award of the Distinguished Flying Medal.'

LG citation:
"As flight engineer, this airman has taken part in a large number of sorties, including 4 attacks on Berlin and many others against important centres in the Ruhr. One night in December, 1943, he took part in an attack on Berlin. During the operation the aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire. The hydraulic gear was damaged and the bomb doors could not be closed. Flight Sergeant Howard displayed much initiative and resource in his endeavours to make the gear serviceable, working unremittingly for 2 hours on repairs. For a greater part of the time he executed his task in the rear of the aircraft, without heat and, at times, without a supply of oxygen. As base was reached a defective engine burst into flames but prompt and efficient fire drill by Flight Sergeant Howard prevented any serious consequences. This airman has invariably displayed great keenness and devotion to duty."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

"FRANCE AND GERMANY" clasp

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)