Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Flying Officer

Unit:

No.8 Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force

Awarded on:

January 21st, 1944

Citation:
Since being posted to No. 8 (Torpedo) Squadron on 17th April, 1943, Flying Officer FINALY has participated in nine sorties, including four strikes, and had completed 45 hours of operational flying.

Despite attacks by enemy fighter aircraft, he successfully carried out several moonlight reconnaissances of Simpson's Harbour, and on the night of the 4th November, 1943, he made a torpedo attack which probably damaged an enemy cruiser.

On 4th December, 1943, he was a member of a formation of six aircraft which set out at night to attack shipping in Rabaul Harbour. In spite of extremely adverse weather conditions he maintained formation with the leader until the target was reached, when he torpedoed and destroyed an enemy merchant vessel of 5000-7000 tons

Flying Officer FINLAY displayed the utmost courage, skill and devotion to duty in successfully completing his hazardous mission."

In recognition of gallantry displayed in flying operations against the enemy in New Guinea.