RAF DFC & Bar Winner Tunic, Trouser and Photograph. Lancaster Tirpitz Raid

An excellent and clearly little worn RAF Officer’s Service Dress Tunic and Trousers, attributed by information provided by the consignor, to Pilot Officer, later Flight Lieutenant, Roy Cyril Lake, RAFVR, DFC and bar of 9 Squadron Lancasters. Included with the uniform is a 25 x 20 cms photograph of Warrant Officer Lake taken earlier with his crew.

Both Tunic and Trousers are in excellent condition, free from moth or other damage. Made by Burtons the paper label to the inside pocket of the Tunic has long since deteriorated so no name is evident. Above the left breast pocket are a pair of fine padded wings below which sit the medal ribbons for his DFC and bar, 39-45 medal, Air Crew Europe Star with rosette and Defence medal. The first three ribbons had become detached and have been lightly stitched back into place.

Information on Cyril Lake (172749) is extensively available on the internet, and in Traces of War where a nice picture of him in the cockpit of his Lancaster “Spirit of Russia” can be found. The aircraft was no doubt named for operation Catechism where they flew from Russia for the Tirpitz raid, then as an acting Flight Lieutenant, for which he received his first DFC awarded on January 30th, 1945, his bar awarded on May 22nd of the same year.

The following citations appeared in the London Gazette:

Unit:

No. 9 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

January 30th, 1945

Awarded for:

Operation Catechism

"These members of aircraft crew have each completed many operational missions and have displayed the highest standard of keenness and determination throughout. In November 1944, they participated in the decisive attack on the German warship "Tirpitz," a target against which all of them had previously been in action. On this occasion the battleship was sunk. The success achieved reflects the greatest credit on the efforts of these members of aircraft crew who, in their various capacities as pilots, navigators and air bombers displayed skill, courage and resolution of a high order."

No. 9 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

May 22nd, 1945

Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)

Citation:

"Now on his second tour of operational duty, this officer has attacked some of the heavily defended targets. On several occasions he has been selected to play a responsible role (?) during special daylight operations. On one operation, Fit. Lt. Lake's aircraft was attacked by three Ju. 88s simultaneously, but by his skilled steermanship combined with good crew co-operation one of the enemy aircraft was shot down. This officer has always shown a fine fighting spirit and great courage and determination in the face of the enemy."

An excellent uniform group and photograph, all in very good condition.