American Distinguished Flying Cross from WWII could soar past $7,000 next week

A Distinguished Flying Cross awarded to an American who flew with the British RAF in WWII is to sell

One of the highlights in an upcoming US medal auction is, as we've reported, as American as they come: a Purple Heart awarded for actions taken over a century ago relating to the 'Philippine Insurrection'.

However, a later highlight relating to WWII has a much more trans-Atlantic feel.

This is a British Distinguished Flying Cross awarded to an RAF pilot for their actions during the conflict. The George VI issue DFC, dated 1944, was awarded to American Donald Clarence Slade

Flight Officer Slade of USAAF flew Lancaster bombers from RAF Kelstern with great doggedness and skill.

His for a DFC states in part: "He has so far attained a splendid record of achievement and photographs taken at the time of bombing show that he has pressed home his attack to the utmost and has overcome the fiercest enemy opposition.

The well-preserved Distinguished Flying Cross medal

"Flight Officer Slade has welded together a most efficient crew and by his skill an initiative has inspired confidence into them all. For his skill, courage and untiring devotion to duty he is strongly recommended for an award of the Distinguished Flying Cross."

Slade's award was one of 264 Distinguished Flying Crosses awarded to Americans in WWII. This one is in very fine condition, with Slade's name and the initials of his overall group the USA AAF engraved on the back. It is accompanied by its original Royal Mint case of issue and expected to achieve $5,000-7,000 in the online auction which closes at 5pm of March 1.

Collectors looking for items related to Americans in WWII should take a look at this photo signed by aviation pioneer Charles Lindbergh.

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Images: FJP Auctions