Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant

Unit:

No. 90 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

September 24th, 1943

Citation:
"This airman was the wireless operator of an aircraft which attacked Hamburg one night in July, 1943. Shortly after the bombs had been released the bomber was hit by anti-aircraft fire and sustained extensive damage. The inter-communication and electric systems were damaged and, whilst his captain was endeavouring to out-manoeuvre an enemy fighter, Flight Sergeant Rhodes attempted to make personal contact with the bomber's gunners. A gap had been torn in the floor of the aircraft but Flight Sergeant Rhodes crossed it to assure himself of his comrades' welfare. He afterwards traced the. defect in the inter-communication
system and, after an hour's .effort, succeeded in repairing it. He displayed exemplary conduct, in the face of a difficult situation."