DFM BREAKWELL

A Second War ‘1943’ D.F.M. group of six awarded to Halifax air gunner Sergeant G. Breakwell, Royal Canadian Air Force, who flew in at least 29 operational sorties with 76 Squadron.

Distinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. officially named to: CAN/R.104908. Sgt. G. Breakwell. R.C.A.F.

1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star, 1 clasp, France and Germany; Defence Medal, Canadian issue in silver; Canadian Volunteer Service Medal, with overseas clasp; War Medal 1939-45, Canadian issue in silver.

Mounted for display, remnants of adhesive, very fine.

D.F.M. London Gazette 19 October 1943.

The original recommendation states: ‘This N.C.O. has carried out a total of 29 sorties and has flown a total of 182 operational hours. He has made several attacks against very heavily defended targets in Germany which have included Hamburg (5) and the Ruhr (10). He has also carried out 3 sorties against targets in Italy. He possesses great tenacity of purpose, endurance and a fine offensive spirit. By his example of unselfishness and sacrifice and by his unconquerable spirit of determination to achieve his objective, he has inspired a high standard of morale in his crew. He appears to have complete disregard for the enemy opposition and has shown exceptional fighting qualities and resourcefulness in all the sorties he has carried out. He is recommended for the award of the Distinguished Flying Medal.

Remarks by Station Commander: This N.C.O.’s skill and determination as an Air Gunner on operational sorties have made him one of the most useful members of his squadron and earned for him the admiration of all with whom he has come in contact. Recommended for the award of the Distinguished Flying Medal.’

Graham Breakwell served during the Second World War with the Royal Canadian Air Force. He was posted for operational service as an Air Gunner with 76 Squadron (Halifaxes), and had carried out at least 29 operational sorties with the Squadron by 23 August 1943.