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In February while leading formation three Hurricanes on patrol this officer observed nine Junkers 87's dive bombing and machine gunning near Mersa El Berga. He immediately called his flight by radio telephone but failing to make himself understood dived to attack accompanied by only one of his section. They were immediately attacked by 15 Messerschmitt 110's and in ensuing combat Perrin shot down 1 Junkers and 1 Messerschmitt before cannon shell burst in his petrol tank covering him with petrol and slightly wounding his left eye, also setting his aircraft on fire. Despite this continued attack another Messerschmitt at low level until ammunition expended. Then crash landed aircraft. Throughout engagement this officer displayed outstanding leadership and courage in face of greatly superior number enemy forces.

Archival Material

National Archives of Australia

Series No.	Control Symbol	Item Title	Digitised Item	Item ID
A12372	R/376/H	PERRIN John Rowley : Service Number - O376 : Date of Birth - 09/10/1916 : Place of Birth - Melbourne, VIC : Conflict - WW2		30718928
A12372	R/376/P	PERRIN John Rowley : Service Number - O376 : Date of Birth - 09/10/1916 : Place of Birth - Melbourne, VIC : Conflict - WW2		30718929