Citation for meritorious service - Flying Officer Ian George Nicklin

Citation for meritorious service - Flying Officer Ian George Nicklin

Recounts this New Zealand pilots superb handling of his aircraft after it struck high tension cable after take off. Despite damage to main navigation aid he continues with his 1700 mile operation which was completed successfully. After landing damage was found to propellers and engine cowlings. Submitted with caption 'Pilot's DFC Citation'.

One page typewritten document

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MTophamG[Ser#-DoB]-151018-02

[underlined] Flying Officer (A/F/Lt.) Ian George NICKLIN
PARTICULARS OF MERITORIOUS SERVICE [/underlined]

This New Zealand Officer was detailed on the night of the 8/9th February, 1945, as Captain of Aircraft, to attack Politz, near Stettin. Weather conditions for a dark take-off were poor, with a gusty wind and low cloud base of 600 ft.

On taking off, immediately after becoming airborne, the aircraft was caught in the slipstream of another aircraft and became temporarily out of control, having the misfortune to strike a high tension cable which broke, causing vivid flashes along the fuselage. Flight Lieutenant Nicklin, by superb handling of his aircraft, regained control and continued on a normal course whilst the crew inspected the aircraft for any possible damage.

It was found that the major navigational aid was completely unserviceable and it was known that there must be further damage, either to the propellors or mainplanes. After handling the aircraft and finding it still stable, with no indication of trouble in the engines, Flight Lieutenant Nicklin decided to set course on his mission, despite the long flight of 1700 miles and the danger that any component might fail completely.

The rest of the flight out to the target and back to base was completed without incident and on landing it was discovered that two propellors were extensively damaged and almost unserviceable, whilst heavy damage had been caused to three engine cowlings, in addition to the navigational aid already mentioned.

The action of this Captain in beginning a flight of such length is worthy of the highest praise and is in accord with the highest traditions of service. He knew full well the risk involved but, with great tenancity [sic] of purpose and courage, he completed a highly successful attack.

For his daring, magnificent skill and devotion to duty, he is recommended for the immediate award of the Distinguished Flying Cross.