Alexander Augustus Norman Dudley Pentland, of Terrigal, New South Wales, joined the Australian Imperial Force in March 1915. He served as a machine gunner with the 12th Light Horse Regiment at Gallipoli but contracted enteric fever in September 1915. A hospital ship took him to England where he was discharged in February 1916. When he recovered he joined the Royal Flying Corps. He scored his first victory as a two-seater pilot in June 1916. Posted to 19 Squadron, flying SPADs, he scored 9 victories in 1917. In 1918, with 87 Squadron, he scored 13 victories flying the Sopwith Dolphin. Post-war, he returned to home and served with the Royal Australian Air Force for two years before leaving to pursue a career in civil aviation. In 1940, he rejoined the R.A.A.F as a squadron leader and served as an instructor and commanding officer of 1 Rescue and Communication Flight, earning the Air Force Cross.
Military Cross (MC)
T./2nd Lt. Alexander Augustus Norman Pentland, Gen. List and R.F.C.
For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. On a recent occasion he flew to an aerodrome fifteen miles behind the enemy lines, descended to within twenty feet of the ground, and fired into eight hostile machines. On his return journey he attacked a train with considerable effect from a low altitude. He has in addition brought down several enemy machines, and has always set a splendid example of fearlessness and devotion to duty in attacking enemy balloons and troops on the ground.
Supplement to the London Gazette, 9 January 1918 (30466/635)
Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)
Lt. (T./Capt.) Alexander Augustus Norman Pentland, M.C.
A gallant flight commander, who in the last three months has destroyed two enemy machines and driven down four out of control. Recently, whilst on special patrol, he, single-handed, attacked four enemy aeroplanes; having driven down one out of control, he engaged the leader, damaged his engine, and compelled him to glide to his lines. One of the remaining machines followed the leader, but he attacked the other and drove it down in a steep dive.
Supplement to the London Gazette, 3 August 1918 (30827/9202)
