- Period:
- Second World War (1939-1945)
- Rank:
- Sergeant
- Unit:
- No. 218 (Gold Coast) Squadron, Royal Air Force
- Awarded on:
- July 17th, 1942
Citation:
"One night in-June, 1942, this airman was captain of an aircraft detailed to attack Bremen. In the light of' the full moon, shortly after crossing the
Dutch coast, the aircraft was intercepted by 3 enemy fighters whose pilots made simultaneous attacks from the port quarter, starboard and dead astern positions. Sergeant Falconer took violent evasive action but, in spite of this, his aircraft sustained severe damage. Just when it seemed that he had eluded his attackers, another enemy fighter appeared, firing a burst which raked the bomber from front to rear. The complete combat, lasting for 20 minutes, was fought from 15,000 feet, down to sea level. With 2 of his crew wounded, the aircraft's turrets useless, the astrodome, blind-flying panel and oxygen system shot
away, as well as other damage sustained, Sergeant Falconer set course for this country. Although subjected to strong concentrations of light antiaircraft fire near the enemy's coast, he flew the aircraft safely back to base. Throughout, this airman displayed great courage, skilful captaincy and devotion to duty."
Published in The London Gazette dated 17th July 1942.