Previous Lot Next Lot

Auction: 23111 - Orders, Decorations and Medals - e-Auction
Lot: 953

The '1941 St. Nazaire Harbour' D.F.C. group of five awarded to Squadron Leader P. R. Turgel, Royal Air Force who was killed in action over Holland on 26 May 1943

Distinguished Flying Cross, G.VI.R., engraved to the reverse '1941'; 1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, with M.I.D. oak leaf detached, sold together with named condolence slip and O.H.M.S. box of issue, the cross separated from its suspension, otherwise good very fine (5)

D.F.C. London Gazette 21 November 1941, the original recommendation states:

'For continuous gallantry and devotion to duty during raids into enemy territory.
P/O. Turgel has been called upon during his operational tour for intensive flying. At times he has been detailed to carry out the more difficult tasks immediately following a period of intensive operation work. His cheerfulness and willingness under these trying conditions have been most marked.
On the night of 27th. May he was detailed to lay a mine in a extremely difficult position in St. Nazaire Harbour. The mine was successfully laid although it entailed flying over the towns defences at 300 feet, the aircraft being badly damaged.
On the night of 23/24th. June his aircraft was badly damaged by flak. Notwithstanding this he continued on to the target and carried out a highly successful attack.
During July the Squadron was called upon to undertake a daylight raid on Brest. P/O. Turgel had been detailed as standby crew. He persuaded his Flight Commander to allow him to accompany the other aircraft on the first stage of their flight. After 45 minutes one of the aircraft had to leave the formation with engine trouble. P/O/. Turgel immediately filled the gap, carrying out a highly successful raid on the target, although being hit many times by flak. This Officer's determination and courage have been a great inspiration to all who have served with him.'

Note: the original recommendation called for the award of the D.S.O. but was downgraded to a D.F.C.

Philip Raymond Turgel was born on 28 March 1921 in Kent, the son of Rene and Fanny Turgel later of Bay Trees, Guildford, Surrey. Granted a short service commission as Pilot Officer on the outbreak of war, Turgel began flying with 144 Squadron from 1 March 1941.

Flying repeated missions over the spring and summer of 1941 Turgel was promoted Flight Lieutenant on 27 July 1941 and received a 'mention' the next year on 11 June 1943. Further advanced Wing Commander on 21 August 1942. He was promoted Squadron Leader and by May 1943 had been transferred to 100 Squadron. At the time this unit - part of No. 1 Group, Bomber Command - was launching night raids over Germany and the Low Countries. Turgel's own Lancaster, LM320, was shot down over Vlodrop, Holland on 26 May 1943. Some sources claim flak as the cause although his machine was also claimed by Manfred Meurer, a highly successful German night-fighter ace. He is buried at Jonkerbos War Cemetery; sold together with copied research including Commonwealth War Graves certificate, London Gazette and newspaper extracts.

Subject to 20% VAT on Buyer’s Premium. For more information please view Terms and Conditions for Buyers.

Sold for
£2,500

Starting price
£420