With the conclusion of the long-running series relating the stories of the airmen holders of the Victoria Cross, a new series Above and Beyond has started in the September issue of FlyPast.  This first article provides the background to the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Distinguished Flying Medal.  It highlights the creation and the development of the criteria for the award of the two decorations for gallantry in the air.  The article is illustrated by examples of both immediate and non-immediate awards and includes the first award of the DFC to a female and the only post-war award of the DFC and two Bars.

Each monthly issue of FlyPast will focus on one individual and describe the events that led to the award of the decorations.