John
Title for image: LG Mason on the left
Describe the image: The bloke on the left in the first of these photos is Flt Lt Lloyd George Mason NZ402028 DFC. He originated from Johnsonville in Wellington and joined the RNZAF in 1940 qualifying as a pilot later that year with the rank of Sergeant. He was transferred to the RAF in 1941 and joined 127 RAF Squadron flying Hurricanes in Iraq and North Africa. He later joined 33 RAF Squadron again flying Hurricanes and then later Spitfires in North Africa in what was termed an Army Close Support unit which was part of 2nd Tactical Air Force which was basically “flying artillery”. 33 Squadron would have been tasked with destroying gun emplacements, vehicles, communications literally anything that the Army normal artillery would struggle to hit. 33 Squadron returned to the U.K. in 1944 in preparation for the D Day landings and during that time 33 Squadron was part of 135 Wing which was commanded Wing Commander Ray Harries who stands centre in the photo. 33 Squadron as part of 135 Wing at this time was un
Where did your information come from?: New Zealanders at War FB Page
File created: 13 January 2021