As promised:
ROBERTS John Samuel 2211992 Flight Sergeant 158 Squadron
LG 26/10/1945 Sorties 35 Flying Hours 181.46 Air Gunner Air 2/9112
As mid-upper gunner in a Halifax III aircraft with 158 Squadron, Flight Sergeant Roberts has just completed and excellent tour of 35 operational sorties. He has flown against all types of highly defended targets and has always displayed great courage and complete skill and efficiency. An NCO who took his operational responsibilities seriously, he equipped himself well by a complete knowledge of his job and this efficiency, coupled with his natural keenness and fine offensive spirit, made him a valuable member of his section. In the face of the severest enemy fire and in the most hazardous of circumstances, Flight Sergeant Roberts showed coolness and courage of the highest order and his example did much to maintain high morale in the crew with whom he flew. It is recommended that this NCO’s valuable work, constant courage, keenness and determination throughout a hazardous tour be recognised by the award of the DFM.
17 May 1945
Remarks by Station Commander.
Flight Sergeant Roberts constantly displayed the qualities which make a good gunner and throughout his tour he remained keen, willing and full of courage. His efforts are worthy of the recommendation and I recommend the award of the Distinguished Flying Medal.
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LG means the date of the London Gazette entry, sorties are only qualifying operational flights and the flying are related to these sorties. The Air 2 reference is the file at the National Archives where the original recommendation is filed