On 18 December 1917 Dickson was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) for his part in a bombing mission.

The citation for his award reads: For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in a bombing raid on Thourout Railway Station and Varsennaere Aerodrome on 25 October 1917.

[3]Promoted to temporary flight lieutenant in December 1917,[4] a Bar to the DSC was won in March 1918 for coming to the aid of another aircraft which was under attack.

His citation reads: For conspicuous gallantry in attacking enemy aircraft and in carrying out bombing raids.

On 16 March 1918, he went to the assistance of a machine of his formation which was being attacked at close quarters by twelve enemy scouts.

On other occasions he has brought down enemy machines and taken part in many daylight bombing raids, at all times showing utter fearlessness and great determination.