Orders, Decorations and Medals

A Pathfinder Force D.F.M. group of five awarded to Flight Sergeant John Reid, No. 7 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Distinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. (1520540 F/Sgt., R.A.F.); 1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star; Defence and War Medals, together with a Pathfinder Force badge, very fine (6)

D.F.M. London Gazette 14 November, 1944. The following details are taken from the official recommendation: ‘Flight Sergeant Reid has completed a large number of sorties in the capacity of rear gunner in a master bomber aircraft. He has risen to all occasions and shown outstanding fortitude and skill. His prompt actions and instructions have on many occasions been instrumental in enabling the aircraft and crew to evade enemy action, and thus complete their task. In all his duties he has shown courage and determination of the highest order.’ The recommendation lists 29 sorties completed with No. 7 Squadron as part of No. 8 Group, Path Finder Force, between May and August 1944. He had previously completed 17 sorties with No. 97 Squadron but these details are not given owing to the loss of his Log Book.