Walter Robert Mayes, Sgt Major 2nd Class, Coxswain, DSM, AFM. (B. 1888, D. Service no. 200965.
Served with RNAS and RAF, being an experienced coxswain by the time he served on R33, R34, and R36. He received the AFM in 1919 for his role in the R34 trans-Atlantic crossing. Mayes received a bar to the Air Force Medal for having put himself at peril to save the airship, along with Flt. Sgt. S. J. Heath. The bar was announced in the Supplement to the London Gazette on June 4, 1921.
On the third trial flight (Apr 5, 1921), R36 went into a steep dive caused by the upper and starboard control surfaces failing and jamming during speed trials, along with serious stabilizer damage, due to heavy air turbulence. These men ventured out upon the unstable starboard stabilizer to effect makeshift repairs exposed to the elements. This enabled a safe emergency return to Pulham for full repairs.
He was later placed in charge of R36 refurbishment in 1924, overseeing riggers tending to cell netting, radial wiring, and control cables. Mayes’ collective experience made him one of the most knowledgeable, skilled, and decorated men in the airship service.