Distinguished Flying Cross GVIR reverse dated 1945 and privately engraved F/O W. ARMSTRONG; 1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star; Africa Star clasp North Africa 1942-43; Italy Star; Defence Medal; War Medal 1939-45 - unnamed as awarded with the original box of issue addressed to P/O W. Armstrong, 15 George Street, Peebles, Peebelshire, Scotland.
Walter Armstrong was born in Gosforth, Newcastle in 1917. He joined the RAF on 7.12.1936 and was attached to No.4 Group 578 Squadron as a Wireless Operator. He later became a Flying Officer and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross in February 1945 - the recommendation for which read as follows:
"Pilot Officer Armstrong had now completed his second tour with a further 20 operations to his credit totaling 91.15 hours, making a grand total of 54 operations totaling 320.20 hours.
In the course of his operational career he has taken part in many attacks in the Middle East and in Germany and in the occupied countries. His efficiency throughout has been of a very high order and his knowledge and experience have been of great value not only to his own crew but also to other Wireless Operators in the squadron.
His good team work his sound knowledge and his ability to deal with any emergency have contributed greatly to the success of his crew's second tour. It is recommended that he should receive the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross."
Armstrong died in Peebles on 23 August 1960.
Medals are in good condition unless otherwise indicated. Sold with research including the Observer & Air Gunner's Flying Log Book, the RAF Notice Paper, congratulatory letter from King George and a telegram from O.C. No. 2 Ground Wing informing him that he is to assume command of "B" Squadron. His dog tags and medal ribbon bar are included.
