Lot 151
Shot Down a JU88 over Stuttgart – awarded the DFM
At Sea, On Land & In The Air | M24003
Auction: 24 September 2024 at 18:30 BST
Description
The Distinguished Flying Medal awarded to Flight Sergeant David James Myers, a Lancaster Mid-Upper Air Gunner with 49 and 106 Squadrons, who on the night of the 28th of July 1944 on a raid to Stuttgart drove off one night fighter and shot down a JU88, comprising, Distinguished Flying Medal, GVIR, (2207837 F/Sgt. J. Myers. R.A.F.), lightly toned very fine (1)
DFM The London Gazette 22nd of May 1945
Myers, David James. 2207837 Flight Sergeant, No 49 Sqn.
Sorties 31, Flying Hours 172.20 Air Gunner Air2/9070
During the whole of his tour of 30 operations with No 49 Squadron, this N.C.O. has shown a keenness and enthusiasm to operate which has been exemplary. On completion of his tour with No 49 Squadron, he immediately volunteered to carry out a second tour and has now been posted to No. 106 Squadron for this purpose. He has participated in attacks against such heavily defended targets as Bremen, Brunswick, Nuremburg, Munich, Politz. On the night of the 24th of July 1944, he was mid-upper Gunner of a crew detailed to raid Stuttgart. After leaving the target, his aircraft was attacked by two enemy fighters, one of which was identified as a JU.88. This gunner’s ability and offensive spirit was of such a high order that he and the rear gunner dealt with both enemy fighters and aided the Captain in out-manoeuvring one, while the JU88 was shot down. The other enemy aircraft broke off the attack, a tribute to Flight Sergeant Myers’ marksmanship. There is no doubt that he played a leading role during this combat and showed a high degree of courage under fire. For his skill, efficiency, determination and devotion to duty when operating against the enemy , I recommend the award of the Distinguished Flying Medal.
Sold with original packet for the DFM, The Buckingham Place award notice, DFM Forwarding letter and a copy photograph of F/Sgt Myers in uniform, copy London Gazette entry, copy 49 Squadron Air Crew data sheet
All proceeds will be donated to the Ty Olwen Hospice who looked after David in his last days.
