THE PRO PATRIA PROJECT

WEBB Richard

NZ391853 & 70019, Acting Wing Commander, Royal New Zealand Air Force

CITATION

Distinguished Service Order

Gazetted 4 July 1944, Supp 36598, p3188

Since being awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, this officer has continued to lead his Wing with courage, inspiring them by his determination and selfless devotion to duty.  A typical example of his tenacity and courage occurred in May 1944, when he was leading a formation of spitfires on a low level bombing sortie.  His aircraft was hit by two explosive bullets which burst inside the cockpit, rendering him unconscious and causing injuries which resulted in blindness of the right eye.  Wing Commander Webb regained consciousness quickly and asked another pilot in the formation to lead him the 200 miles back to base where he made a perfect landing

Distinguished Flying Cross

Gazetted 21 March 1944, Supp 35439, p1389

This officer has completed a very large number of operational sorties, many of them in support of the ground fighting in the forward areas in the Italian theatre.  Throughout he has displayed high powers of leadership, great skill and determination and much of the fine fighting spirit of the squadron he commands can be attributed to this officers personal example.  In air fighting Squadron Leader Webb has shot down at least three enemy aircraft.

Mention in Despatches

Gazetted 8 June 1944

In recognition of distinguished service and devotion to duty.

AWARDS

Distinguished Service Order

Distinguished Flying Cross

1939-45 Star

Air Crew Europe Star

Africa Star

Italy Star

Defence Medal

War Medal 1939-45

       Mention in Despatches

New Zealand War Service Medal

NOTES

Born 10 March 1912, London, UK

Killed in aircraft accident 27 May 1953