Battle Order 204 (8)
Outstanding Devotion to Duty

The Wingco, deeply impressed with David’s courage and superb airmanship in bringing home his crew and his aircraft, recommended David for an Immediate Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross. Writing to David to send the squadron’s love and congratulations, he said, ‘Never was there one more gallantly earned.’

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The official citation reads:

As pilot and captain of an aircraft, Flying Officer MATTINGLEY took part in an attack against DORTMUND in November, 1944.

Whilst over the target, the aircraft was badly hit and Flying Officer MATTINGLEY was wounded about the head, arm and thigh. In spite of the hits he carried on and afterwards flew the damaged aircraft back to the United Kingdom.

His indomitable spirit, superb captaincy and outstanding devotion to duty set an example of high order.