Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Flight Sergeant

Unit:

No. 180 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

April 27th, 1945

Citation:
"This officer and airman were pilot and air gunner respectively in an aircraft detailed to attack the railway yards at Bocholt in March, 1945. During the bombing run the aircraft was hit by fire from the ground defences. Pilot Officer Perkins was severely wounded. His -right thigh was smashed;  he also sustained injuries to his back. His suffering became intense. Nevertheless this brave pilot, tended by Flight Sergeant Hall who stood at his side, flew the aircraft to an allied airfield. As the airfield was reached Pilot Officer Perkins was in great distress. Although the aircraft had ustained serious damage it was decided to attempt a landing.  Flight Sergeant Hall assisted to remove his wounded comrade into the second pilot's seat and then himself took over the controls in an effort to bring the aircraft down. During the descent, Pilot Officer Perkins, injured as he was, advised and directed his resolute air gunner in the control of the aircraft so well, that a successful crash landing was affected.  Pilot Officer Perkins displayed outstanding fortitude, great courage and unbeatable determination in the face of extreme suffering. Flight Sergeant Hail also proved himself  to be a valiant crew member. His coolness, courage and resource set a fine example."

The DSO was awarded to Pilot Officer Perkins
.