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Auction: 17003 - Orders, Decorations and Medals
Lot: 715

An extremely rare Kurdistan 1919 operations D.F.M. awarded to Sergeant S. C. Spink, Royal Air Force, who served with distinction as an Aerial Gunner in R.E. 8s of No. 63 Squadron, engaging hostile tribesmen from low altitudes under heavy rifle fire

Distinguished Flying Medal, G.V.R. (31105 Sgt. S. C. Spink, R.A.F.), suspension slack, very fine


Just four D.F.M.s were awarded for operations in Kurdistan in May to December 1919.

D.F.M. London Gazette 12 July 1920:

'For gallantry and distinguished services.'

The original recommendation states:

'For gallantry and devotion to duty. Owing to lack of Qualified Observers and Aerial Gunners, this N.C.O. has always been to the fore in volunteering for these duties. He has continually acted in this capacity in minor operations over the difficult and mountainous country of Kurdistan machine-gunning hostile tribesmen from low altitudes under heavy rifle fire. By his keenness and disregard of danger he has set an excellent example to all ranks.'

Sidney Claud Spink, a native of Pudsey, Leeds, joined the Royal Flying Corps as a Fitter (Engine) in June 1916 and was advanced to Corporal (Mechanic) in Mesopotamia in February 1918.

He subsequently served with 'A' Flight, No. 63 Squadron, 31st Wing, Royal Air Force during the operations against the Kurdish chief, Sheik Mahmoud, in May-December 1919.

Spink was discharged in August 1921; sold with two original R.A.F. Record Office letters regarding his award of the D.F.M.



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Sold for
£2,000