Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Pilot Officer

Unit:

No. 14 Operational Training Unit, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

August 21st, 1942

"One night in. July, 1942, this officer was captain of an aircraft detailed to attack a target in North West Germany. When nearing the target area, his aircraft was intercepted by an enemy fighter, but Pilot Officer Curtin safely evaded it and flew on to the objective. Shortly after leaving the target area his aircraft was again intercepted by enemy fighters. In the ensuing engagement, the rear gunner and wireless operator were badly wounded. Pilot Officer Curtin was almost blinded by cordite from a bursting shell and the aircraft lost height by several thousand feet before the captain was able to clear his eyes and regain control. Later when nearing the Dutch coast, the bomber was hit by fire from the ground defences; the navigator sustained wounds and the aircraft was damaged. Despite this, Pilot Officer Curtin flew on and eventually reached this country. In difficult circumstances, he made a safe landing in a field Afterwards, he assisted his wounded crew from the aircraft and then went off for further help. In this, his first operational flight, Pilot Officer Curtin displayed great courage, determination and devotion to duty."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Acting Flight Lieutenant

Unit:

No. 106 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

February 12th, 1943

"Since the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross this officer has participated in numerous operational sorties against heavily defended targets in the Ruhr and in North Italy During a daylight raid on Milan in October, when attacked by two enemy fighters Flight Lieutenant Curtin skilfully evaded them and enabled his gunners to destroy 1 and drive off the other. On two consecutive nights in January, 1943, he took part in attacks on Berlin, on the second occasion spending 30 minutes over the target to ensure accurate bombing This officer has always displayed the greatest courage and devotion to duty."

Received as bar on the ribbon of the first medal