BIOGRAPHY:
Service number 70826.
Brian van Mentz was born in Johannesburg and was granted a short service commission in the RAF in October 1937. In May 1940 he was posted to No. 504, Squadron, flying Hurricanes, and was sent to France immediately where he claimed several victories. After the Squadron was retreated to th UK, he was posted at No. 222 Squadron, this time flying Spitfires. In the summer of 1940, he claimed more victories.
Having flown 75 sorties, he was killed on April 26th 1941 aged 24 years when a bomb hit the Ferry Inn pub, Coltishall, where he was at the time; not half an hour after Robert Tuck had left him to go to Norwich for a drive.
Promotions:
November 24th, 1937: Acting Pilot Officer (probation)
October 19th, 1938: Pilot officer (probation)
October 19th, 1939: Pilot Officer
May 19th, 1940: Flying Officer
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DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS (DFC)
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Rank:
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Flying Officer
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Awarded on:
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October 25th, 1940
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Action:
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Citation:
"Flying Officer Van Mentz has been engaged in operations against the enemy since the outbreak of war. He has destroyed six enemy aircraft and probably a further three, two of which were shot down during the period of intensive operations in France. This officer has led his section, and at times his flight, with skill and courage and has shown great determination in pressing home his attacks against large enemy formations."
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