807 Sqn 1941 - Hallett/Smith

[AUS_RAAF]

Hi all,

On 8 May 41 Lt N.N. Hallett of 807 Sqn RN shared an SM.79 damaged with another Fulmar - piloted by A.G. Johnson. Hallett’s observer was Australian Lt V.A.T Smith (apparently senior observer with 807 Sqn) and both had to escape from their ditched Fulmar after the combat.

Could someone confirm whether Hallett was crewed with Smith for his subsequent shared victories on 23 Jul 41 (1/2 S.79 dest, 2 x 1/2 S.79 dam shared with Lt/Cdr Sholto-Douglas) and 25 Jul 41 (1/2 Z506B dam shared with Sub/Lt K.G. Grant , 1/2 Z506B dest shared with Lt G.C. Guthrie)? Any further details about these combats, other claimants and/or Fulmar serials would be of interest.

Similarly, was Smith crewed with any other 807 Sqn pilots who may have had aerial victories during this time? At some stage in Sept 41 he was involved in another 807 Sqn ditching when observer to Sholto-Douglas. Details of this would also be very welcome.

Thanks in advance,

Regards, Drew H

[Col Bruggy]

Drew,

A.

Distinguished Service Cross.

SMITH, Victor Arthur*Trumper. Lieutenant, RAN.

For outstanding zeal, patience and cheerfulness and for setting an example of wholehearted devotion to duty. This officer, serving in HMS ARK ROYAL, Force "H", as Senior Observer of 807 Squadron, has set a high standard of courage and a fine example. He has been shot down into the sea by enemy aircraft on two occasions, and having been picked up by a destroyer on each occasion, he has returned making light of his experience and showing unabated keeness to engage the enemy. (AC 1975; KBE 1969; CB 1968; CBE 1963; NM 1977; NM* 1977; NM** 1977; DFSM 1984)

LG 1 January, 1942.

B.

Mentioned in Despatches.

SMITH, Victor Arthur*Trumper, Lieutenant, RAN.

For bravery during an attack on the German Battle Cruiser SCHARNHORST whilst serving in HMS SPARROWHAWK.

LG 25 October, 1940.

See:
By Skill & Valour:Honours and Awards to the Royal Australian Navy for the First and Second World Wars.
Atkinson,James J.
Sydney:Spink & Son(Aust.).,1986.
A. p.108
B. p.193

* I realise Smith's A6769 and A3978 both cite "Victor Alfred", Atkinson incorrectly uses "Victor Arthur".

Col.

[AUS_RAAF]

Thanks Col. Every bit of information adds to the detail!

regards, Drew