14 – Douvres-la-Délivrance War Cemetery

Lancaster ND519 KM-E
44 Sqn
Date :  07 juin 1944
Mission :  Bombardement de Caen (14)
Décollage :  Dunholme Lodge
Causes de la perte :
Lieu de la perte :
 Fresney-le-Vieux (14)
Fg Off Alfred Charles Allwood GREENFIELD
Nav RAFVR 151197 KIA
Sgt Reginald Frank Edwin HALY FE RAFVR 1890071 MIA Runnymede Memorial
FS Eric Peter HAWKES AB RAFVR 1602334 MIA Runnymede Memorial
FS Gordon Henry KNIGHT WOP RAAF 421601 KIA
Sgt Herbert Peter PAGE AG RAFVR 1432806 MIA Runnymede Memorial
Plt Off Ernest Jones ROE AG RAFVR 176769 KIA
Flt Lt William Anthony STRATIS Pil RAFVR 171501 MIA Medaille - Distinguished-Flying-Cross.png Runnymede Memorial
Distinguished Flying Cross
Pilot Officer William Anthony STRAITS (171501), Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, No. 44 Squadron.
In May, 1944, this officer piloted an aircraft detailed to attack a target in Northern France. Whilst over the target area the aircraft was engaged by a fighter which attacked with much persistence. Pilot Officer Stratis cleverly out manoeuvred the attacker, however, and, as the enemy aircraft closed in for the fifth time it was met with a devastating burst of fire. The attacker caught fire and fell to the ground where it exploded. On the return flight the aircraft was attacked by fighters on two occasions but each time the enemy aircraft were driven off. Throughout the sortie, Pilot Officer Stratis displayed great skill, courage and resolution. This officer has completed many more successful missions.
FOURTH SUPPLEMENT OF THE LONDON GAZETTE of FRIDAY, the 26th of MAY, 1944.