General Information

Award Citations

Distinguished Service Order

Since the commencement of his service in New Guinea on the 13th September, 1942, Wing Commander WALKER has commanded No. 30 (Long Range Fighter) Squadron. During this period, he has taken part in 43 sorties against the enemy of which 40 have resulted in strikes. Many have been against targets at Buna, Lae, and Salamoa [sic], all of which have been heavily defended by anti-aircraft guns.

On the 17th September, 1942, Wing Commander WALKER led the first operation of No. 30 Squadron against Japanese barges at Sanananda. This operation was subsequently described by General MacArthur in a signal of commendation as a 'honey'. This and subsequent strikes in the same area seriously hampered the landing of Japanese reinforcements and supplies at Buna.

On one occasion in the course of an attack on a havy anti-aircraft position at Buna, he forced the position to cease firing although his aircraft was holed in many places. On another occasion when Beaufighters encountered particularly intense anti-aircraft fire at Lae on the 18th November, 1942, his aircraft was hit near the tail by a Bofors-type shell. The hydraulic system of his aircraft was shot out necessitating a belly landing which he carried out with a minimum of further damage.

Despite the difficult and trying conditions under which his squadron has been operating, this officer's zeal, energy, courage and determination in operations have been an example and inspiration to all members of his unit.

Wing Commander WALKER has displayed outstanding ability and leadership not only in leading his Squadron in operations against the enemy but also in the general administration of his unit. His leadership has placed the reputation of his Squadron on the highest plane with that of any other squadron fighting in New Guinea.

From the 17th September, 1942, to the 6th March, 1943, his squadron completed 130 operations for a total of 1679 operational hours flown.

Archival Material

National Archives of Australia

Series No.	Control Symbol	Item Title	Digitised Item	Item ID
A9300	WALKER B R	WALKER BRIAN REGINALD : Service Number - 94 : Date of birth - 27 Mar 1913 : Place of birth - ADELAIDE SA : Place of enlistment - POINT COOK VIC : Next of Kin - WALKER MAISIE		5402297

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