Lieutenant Lewis Masterman Jacobs, DFC

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Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) (Geo.VI) dated 1944;

1939-45 Star; Africa Star (clasp North Africa 1942-43); Italy Star; DM; WM; ASM 27810 L.M. Jacobs 

DFC LONDON GAZETTE 7 JANUARY 1944
“Lieutenant Lewis Masterman Jacobs 27810 12 Squadron S.A.A.F.

 

An Observer, outstanding for his determination and skill, Lieutenant Jacobs has led his squadron on many occasions.

 

Regardless of enemy opposition or adverse weather he has invariably released his bombs with great precision. At all times he has set an excellent example of courage and devotion to duty.” 

Lewis Masterman Jacobs was born in 1917 and educated in Natal. He was the son of Captain L.M. Jacobs, DSO and bar who had served with the South African Infantry in France during WWI.

He joined the Witwatersrand Rifles on 8 July 1940 and transferred to the S.A.A.F. on 1 April 1941. He qualified as Navigator in September 19 and served with No. 12 Squadron in North Africa, taking part in the invasion of Sicily and Italy. 

 

Returned to the Union in October 1943, but was back in Egypt in November training on Marauders and Baltimore aircraft. Transferred to 55 Squadron. He was shot down and reported missing on a night raid on Vigodarzere over Italy on 19 February 1945. 

From Logbook: “Bombed and strafed. A/C holed & set on fire STB engine by 20 mm flak – successful belly landing. Crew unhurt – kept by partisans in area foothills north of Vincenza from 22/2 till 2/5.”