[pfP7063]

Hello again Alex!

The following should help you answer your query - it is from 263's ORB.

13th.
His Majesty the King has been graciously pleased to confer the Distinguished Service Order on S/L G.B. Warnes DFC, and the Distinguished Flying Cross on F/O A. Lee-White and P/O M.T. Cotton RAAF. S/L Warnes's DSO is the second to be awarded for work accomplished entirely with 263 Squadron. The first was awarded posthumously to S/L 'Baldy' Donaldson in July 1940. These 2 DFC's bring the number awarded to the Squadron at Warmwell, during the past 9 months, to 7.

F/S R.A. Hollamby who has been for nearly a year i/c 'A' Flight ground crews, and F/S H.O.J. Watts who is i/c the Armament section, have been honoured and the Squadron with them, by being Mentioned In Despatches.

In the evening, the Squadron Oxford T1064, an old and useful chariot which has hitherto proved inviolable, was rendered Cat B at Ibsley by a Spitfire, which taxied into it while it was stationary before take off. The fuselage was severed behind the cockpit. The pilot, F/O A. Lee-White DFC and his pupil were uninjured. T1064 was replaced by a newer and faster Oxford, T1058. Later, a Squadron party was held at the Golden Lion at Weymouth. It was given by the 4 Officers who have recently been decorated, to all Officers and Aircrew of the Squadron, and 3 members of the Warmwell SHQ, who have been specially friendly and helpful to the Squadron, S/L Marshal - SMO, F/L Ken Baker - Equipment Officer, and F/O Buchanan - Sports Officer. It was a magnificent party, magnificently enjoyed.

If necessary I also have a couple of photos of said Oxford.

Paul