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Longhurst, Leonard James

Service number:
49544
Nationality:
British (1801-present, Kingdom)

Biography

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Pilot Officer
Unit:
No. 226 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:
October 2nd, 1942
Awarded for:
Operation Jubilee
“On the 19th August, 1942, this officer was air gunner in an aircraft detailed to attack gun positions during the combined operations, at Dieppe. Intensive anti-aircraft fire was encountered, which caused the destruction of the foresight of his guns. Despite this, he continued firing. Later, when withdrawing from the target, his aircraft was engaged by a Focke Wulf 190. As he was unable to sight his guns accurately, Pilot Officer Longhurst coolly withheld his fire until the attacker, was in close range; he then delivered a most effective burst at the enemy aircraft which broke away and when last seen, it was falling towards the sea with smoke pouring from it. This officer has invariably displayed skill, courage and resource in action.”
Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)

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