02 – Montreuil-aux-Lions

Lancaster LM378 PG-J
619 Sqn
 Date :  19 juillet 1944 Mission :  Bombardement d’installations ferroviaires à Revigny-sur-Ornain (55)
    Décollage :
 Dunholme Lodge à 23:02
   
    Causes de la perte :  Abattu par un chasseur de nuit
   
    Lieu de la perte :  Montreuil-aux-Lions (02)   
SgtRichard BeltonCOXAGRAFVR1821808KIA     
SgtArthur ErnestCURTISWOPRAFVR1398725KIA     
FSArnold WilliamHABERGHAMNavRAFVR119143KIA
SgtMaxLOOSLIAGRAFVR1594457KIA     
AustralieFg OffFrank FrancisMOLINASPilRAAF425454KIA Distinguished Flying Cross
FSLeonardMORGANABRAFVR1396983KIA     
SgtJames AlexanderNEALEYFERAFVR1590700EVA     

Distinghished Flying Cross
Acting Flying Officer Frank Francis MOLINAS (Aus.425454), R.A.A.F., 619 Sqn.
This officer was the pilot of an aircraft detailed to attack a target in Northern France one night in July, 1944. In the bombing run the aircraft was attacked by a fighter and’ sustained much damage. The port engine was put out of action, several large holes were torn in one of the wings and the ailerons were damaged. Some of the pilot’s instruments were shattered, whilst Flying Officer Molinas himself was slightly wounded. In spite of this, he manoeuvred to a good position from which his gunners were able to engage the enemy aircraft effectively. Following their good shooting the attacker was seen to turn on its back and then dive steeply apparently out of control. Flying Officer Molinas then executed a successful bombing attack and afterwards flew the damaged aircraft to base. This officer set a fine example of skill, courage and resolution.
FIFTH SUPPLEMENT to The London Gazette of Friday, the 25th of AUGUST, 1944