Leading Aircraftman Clarence Evans joined II (AC) Sqn at RAF Hawkinge in 1937. He moved with the squadron to France as part of the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) in October 1939. His role as a Wireless Operator/Air Gunner - otherwise known as WOP/AG - saw him fly many sorties riding in the back seat of the squadron's Westland Lysanders. Doubtless, there were many tales to be told from this period but one episode in particular with which he was involved was related by the promulgation in the London Gazette dated 6th August 1940 of an award to him of the Distinguished Flying Medal.
The citation reads as follows:
"On the 25th May 1940, this airman was wireless operator/air gunner on an aircraft on reconnaissance duty over France when it was attacked by fifteen Messerschmitt 109s. In spite of bullets penetrating the rear cockpit from all directions Leading Aircraftman Evans responded with his rear gun, forcing one enemy fighter to retire with smoke pouring from its fuselage. His courage and tenacity was directly responsible for the safe return of the aircraft."
Clarence Evans wrote a fine account of those early days of the Second World War and the events leading up to the retreat from Dunkirk. This can be found in the "Stories" section of this site.
The citation reads as follows:
"On the 25th May 1940, this airman was wireless operator/air gunner on an aircraft on reconnaissance duty over France when it was attacked by fifteen Messerschmitt 109s. In spite of bullets penetrating the rear cockpit from all directions Leading Aircraftman Evans responded with his rear gun, forcing one enemy fighter to retire with smoke pouring from its fuselage. His courage and tenacity was directly responsible for the safe return of the aircraft."
Clarence Evans wrote a fine account of those early days of the Second World War and the events leading up to the retreat from Dunkirk. This can be found in the "Stories" section of this site.
