As well as a DFC (Distinguished Flying Cross) for bravery flying for the South African Air Force during the Second World War, veteran pilot Steve Stevens has just been made an Honorary Member of the South Africa legion UK.
Now 97, bedbound and in pain, Steve was thrilled with the honour, reports Cameron Kinniear of the Legion’s UK branch, who has written an article specially to honour Steve’s achievements.
During the war, Steve mainly flew Bristol Beaufighters in Italy and the Balkans, and after the war became involved in the Berlin Airlift, flying a DC3 on 200 sorties to rescue the city. He went on to open Africa for Christian missionaries flying a Dragon Rapide from the Sudan.
The medal was presented by Paul Dickens, Chairman of the Legion, who wrote, “Steve is one very interesting chap. He was quite insistent on wearing his Legion tie, veteran badge and beret. His wife passed on three years ago I urge any Legionnaire living within a decent range of Worthing, Sussex, to visit him.”
Potential visitors should contact Steve via the South Africa Legion.
An article describing Steve’s wartime achievements can be read on the site of the South Africa Legion:
http://salegion.org.uk/steve-stevens-dfc-saaf-beaufighter-pilot/