1941 Dated Distinguished Flying Cross Attributed to Flight Lieutenant Kenneth Montague Bastin (75168) for the July 1941 Raids on the German Battleships Gneisenau, Scharnhorst and Prinz Eugen, Distinguished Flying Cross GVI 1st type, reverse dated 1941, unnamed as issued in Royal Mint case of issue (self-adhesive collectors label stuck to exterior of the lid). Accompanied by handwritten letter from the recipient confirming his service details dated 12th July 1986 (Bexhill on Sea)istinguished Flying Cross, London Gazette 2nd September 1941 – The KING has been graciously pleased to approve the following awards in recognition of gallantry displayed in flying operations against the enemy: — In July-, 1941, large-scale attacks were made on German warships at Brest and La Pallice (including the ” Gneisenau,” ” Scharnhorst ” and ” Prinz Eugen “). A smaller attack was made on Cherbourg. The operations were carried out in daylight and extremely heavy and accurate anti-aircraft fire and fighter opposition were encountered by all aircraft when approaching the targets, which at Brest was protected by a balloon barrage. The air crews engaged succeeded, nevertheless, in securing direct hits on their objectives and’ in inflicting very severe damage in the target area. During the combats with enemy fighters 21 hostile aircraft were destroyed and others were severely damaged. The precise timing of attack by the various formations of aircraft and their correct approach to and accurate bombing of the objectives in the face of such powerful opposition; demanded great skill and high courage. The great success of these operations was largely due to the bravery, determination and resource displayed by the following officers and airmen, who. participated in various capacities as leaders and members of the aircraft crews:- Acting Flight Lieutenant Kenneth Montague BASTIN (75168), Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, No. 76 Squadron.