AWARD FOR VALOUR

Dominion, Volume 36, Issue 27, 27 October 1942, Page 4

AWARD FOR VALOUR

Flying Medal For Wireless

Operator Flight Sergeant James Dudley Cayford Cumming, > R.N.Z.A.F., a member of the permanent staff, Air Force, has been awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal for valorous conduct overseas, states official advice received by Air Headquarters, Wellington. Joining the Air Force five years ago, Flight .Sergeant Cumming was formerly a resident of Tijinaru. “Flight Sergeant Cumming was a. member of the crew of an aircraft which, during night operations in September, successfully attacked an enemy ship,” states the citation accompanying the award. "The aircraft was damaged by anti-aircraft fire which also put the wireless equipment out of operation. Despite wounds in both arms and the thigh, Flight Sergeant Cumming, after receiving first aid, but still suffering much pain, effected temporary repairs to the wireless, and was able to transmit a message indicating the position of the damaged aircraft. Throughout the homeward flight, Flight Sergeant Cumming’s comrades were inspired by his courage and fortitude. As a wireless operator, he has taken part in numerous sorties.” ' . Born in Christchurch in June, 1917, Flight Sergeant Cumming was educated at the Timaru Boys’ High School, and. later joined the staff of the Post and Telegraph Department at Timaru. Taking an early interest in aviation, he endeavoured to enter commercial or service flying in 1935, and eventually joined the R.N.Z.A.F. in 1937 as a wireless operator. After serving in several Air Force establishments in the Dominion, Flight Sergeant Cumming'left to undertake overseas service in July, 1940. Married in England in April of this year, his wife resides in Gloucester, England, and his father, Mr. W. A. Cumming, at 87 Otipua Road, Timaru.