269 Sqdn Anson combat with Do.18. 19 Sept. 1939

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THE LONDON GAZETTE, 3 NOVEMBER, 1939 7413
Awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal
527769 Sergeant William Edward WILLITS. Sergeant WILLITS was the second pilot and navigator of an aircraft engaged in combat with an enemy flying boat in September, 1939. When, during an attack, the pilot had been shot through the head and had collapsed over the control column, this airman, in spite of the pilot's inertness and the extremely low altitude, succeeded in obtaining control of the aircraft. After the dead pilot had been moved entirely clear of the controls Sergeant WILLITS piloted and navigated the aircraft back to the base, a distance of about 140 miles. The airman's skill and presence of mind undoubtedly saved the aircraft and the Jives of the other members of the crew.