Flight Sergeant Joseph Anthony Fagan, D.F.M.

[dbf]

Flight Sergeant Joseph Anthony Fagan was awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal.

One night in September, 1943, this airman was the rear gunner of an aircraft detailed to attack Hanover. During the bombing run the aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire which wounded Flight Sergeant Fagan and rendered his turret unserviceable. Shortly afterwards the bomber was attacked by a fighter. In spite of his wounds, Flight Sergeant Fagan refused to leave his turret and played his part determinedly in frustrating the attacker. Displaying great fortitude and devotion to duty, this gallant gunner steadfastly held to his post until his aircraft was clear of the enemy coast. His example was most inspiring.

Flight Sergeant Fagan was born in 1919 at Ballymahon, where his home is. In civil life he was a cellarman. He enlisted in the R.A.F.V.R. in 1940 and is now air gunner.

See this thread for ref:
http://www.ww2talk.com/forum/research-material/19413-volunteers-eire-who-have-won-distinctions.html#post195852

[Drew5233]

Immediate.

LG 2.11.1943.

Sorties 53 Flying hours 315.05

Air Gunner.

Air 2/5011.

This NCO is the rear gunner of a Lancaster of this squadron detailed to attack Hanover on the night of 27th September 1943. On the run-up to the target, the aircraft was coned by searchlights and hit by flak wounding the rear gunner and making his turret unserviceable. On the way out from the target, the aircraft was then attacked by an FW-190. Flight Sergeant Fagan in spite of his wounds and suffering from shock was able to fire his guns and refused to leave his turret until the aircraft had safely crossed the enemy coast. Flight Sergeant Fagan displayed outstanding devotion to duty and disregard for his personal safety.

30th September 1943.

The Distinguished Flying Medal Register of the Second World War Vol.I - Ian Tavender.

[Drew5233]

I concur. This NCO has a fine operational record. In spite of being wounded and the rear turret being out of action, he remained at his post until the aircraft and crew were out of the danger zone. Strongly recommended for the immediate award of the Distinguished Flying Medal.

The Distinguished Flying Medal Register of the Second World War Vol.I - Ian Tavender.