Letter from Kenneth Gill to his parents

Letter from Kenneth Gill to his parents

Writes of poor weather but getting a little flying done. Writes that he had been awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and tells of subsequent activity in the mess. Notes that there was nothing yet for rest of crew and that his flying officer status was confirmed.

1944-02-14

Four page handwritten letter

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SGillK1438901v30033

[post mark] [postage stamp]

Mr. & Mrs. F. Gill.
55, Kyffin Avenue,
Halton.
Leeds.
Yorkshire.

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[crest]

P/O. GILL. K. D.F.C.
OFFICERS MESS.
R.A.F. STATION.
SYERSTON.
Nr. NEWARK.
NOTTS.
FEB. 13TH/44.

Dear all,

Hello everybody how's things with you? hope you're all keeping well as I'm glad to say I am just now.

The weather down here isn't too good just now for much flying but we do manage to get a bit done nearly every day, though I've not flown myself since last Monday.

I wonder if you noticed anything different on the heading of my letter; did you? well if you didn't I'll tell you, The King (God Bless Him) has been graciously pleased to award yours truly with the Distinguished Flying Cross, which is a good thing taken all round, I'm pleased as punch

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2/

and already two inches taller.

It was published in yesterday's [deleted] times [/deleted] "Times", and when I went in the mess last night I was promptly beseiged by very thirsty admirers, however luck was on my side as the spirits were free and the beer half price, it being a party night, so I consider I got off lightly but it's worth it.

There's no mention yet of any of the rest of the crew, but there'll be another list coming out in a few days.

My Flying Officer status was also made official so in a few days I'll be able to put my rank up too.

I've just rung Vera up to tell her, she's as happy as a sandboy, and says she's very well and looking after herself.

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3/

I've had phone calls all day from "Derby’ and the rest of the crew, and people from the squadron, it's good to know so many people still have time to think about others.

I'll have to tell Ron; I see I owe him a letter so I hope you'll excuse me this short letter.

Look after yourselves and keep well. Goodnight and God Bless.

Your Loving Son.
Ken. [kisses]
David [kisses]