Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Acting Squadron Leader

Unit:

No. 143 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

May 18th, 1943

"This officer has completed much operational flying and has displayed great skill and high qualities of leadership. On one occasion he led a formation of aircraft acting as fighter escorts to a force of torpedo carrying aircraft. Enemy fighter opposition was encountered and in the ensuing combats, Squadron Leader Ritchie displayed skilful leadership in frustrating attempts by enemy fighters to interfere with the torpedo-carrying aircraft he was escorting."