[Fairlop]

Hi Boris,

W/C John „Downwind“ Woodburn Gillan DFC and Bar, AFC
Service No: 26010
North Weald Wing Leader
S/d by Bf 109s (probably of III./JG 2) N of Dunkirk during early morning Circus 88 to railway yards in Hazebrouck, France. The North Weald Wing took part as Forward Support to six Blenheim IVs of No.139 Sqn.

Air Ministry, 9th September, 1941
Bar to the Distinguished Flying Cross
This officer has led the wing on nineteen occasions since July, 1941, and his fine leadership and cool courage have been an inspiration to his fellow pilots throughput all operations. On three recent escort missions Wing Commander Gillan has displayed especial skill and determination. He has destroyed one and damaged another enemy aircraft.

Mentioned victories:
23/7/1941 one damaged Bf 109 during Circus 60
19/8/1941 one destroyed Bf 109 during Circus 82

I think the AFC had to bear to flight on 10 February 1938 when he flew his Hurricane from Turnhouse, Scotland to Northolt, covering 526 kilometers (327 miles) in 48 minutes. This gave an average speed of 658 KPH (409 MPH), and introduced the Hurricane to the British public with a splash of publicity.

Regards,
Michal