Rank:

Flight Lieutenant

Unit:

No. 53 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

September 10th, 1948

Awarded for:

Operation Vittles

"Flight Lieutenant Miles joined Transport Command as a pilot in May 1946, and was posted to No.31 Squadron in Delhi. He did much very useful work in that area in the troubles that preceded and followed the granting of self-government. He was engaged in many transport operations connected with the evacuation of troops and civilians under semi-wartime conditions. On return to the United Kingdom in December 1947, he was engaged on schedule services between the United Kingdom, Western Europe and the Middle East. He obtained a “B” category and a Green Instrument Rating Card. This officer was one of the first group of Dakota captains to initiate the air lift to Berlin. These captains built up the daily lift to over 400 tons within a week of their first warning of the operation. This officer first flew on Operation PLAINFARE at Wunsdorf, later being transferred to Fassberg and then to Lubeck. To date he has already carried out 113 sorties to Berlin, carrying food and coal. His flying on this operation has been noted for its good discipline and the maintenance of an accident-free record. In the early part of the operation he flew cheerfully and willingly through some of the worst weather one could expect to meet. This officer’s performance has been a real inspiration and he has led his fellow captains in a most arduous and physically exhausting task. He has displayed most commendable determination, courage and flying skill, and has maintained a very praiseworthy discipline and enthusiasm amongst his crew."