Distinguished Flying Cross reverse engraved 1945; 1939-45 Star; France & Germany Star; Defence Medal; War Medal 1939-45 - all unnamed as awarded with a corresponding group of miniatures and a boxed Bomber Command clasp. Sold with a photo album containing an assortment of photos depicting Franks' time in the RAF and a soft cover book by Brian Clark - 619 The History of a Forgotten Squadron along with a smaller history by Charles Clark dated 1988. Also a sheath of original photos of Franks' fellow trainees in the USA.
Wilfred Jack Franks was born in Littleborough, Lancashire on 27 March 1921. He was a Sheet Metal Worker for Vickers Ltd. and an Aircraft Engineering Trainee when WWII broke out at which point he enlisted with the RAF on 17 October 1940 and was assigned no. 175397. He was sent to the USA for training (Montgomery, Alabama) and, on completion, was awarded his wings and promoted to Flying Officer on 4 October 1944.
He survived an Airspeed Oxford crash at RAF Kirmington in June 1942 when he was a Pilot Officer. By Christmas 1944 he had been assigned to 619 Squadron at RAF Strubby. No. 619 Squadron RAF was a heavy bomber squadron of the Royal Air Force during the Second World War, flying Lancaster bombers from bases in Lincolnshire. Franks was awarded the DFC in recognition of gallantry and devotion to duty in the execution of air operations including raids on the German capital. The DFC was awarded in the LG of 25 may 1945.
He passed away on 7 April 2013 in Banbury, Oxfordshire.
The medals are in good condition unless otherwise indicated. Sold with comprehensive research as mentioned above.
