Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Pilot Officer

Unit:

No. 150 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

September 4th, 1942

Citation:
"One night in August, 1942, this officer was captain of an aircraft detailed to attack Mainz. Whilst crossing the enemy coast on the outward flight, the aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire, sustaining damage to the port wing and the fuselage; several electric circuits also failed. In spite of this, Pilot Officer Munson resolutely flew
on to his target, where he pressed home his attack. On the return journey his aircraft was attacked by a hostile fighter. The rear gunner
was killed, the wireless operator wounded and the aircraft sustained further damage. The starboard engine was hit and various instruments, including the airspeed indicator, were put out of action.
The controls became temporarily jammed but, after a great effort, Pilot Officer Munson managed to free them and decided to make an attempt to fly the Aircraft back to this country. He eventually reached the English coast where he was compelled to effect a crash landing. This he did successfully in spite of difficulties. By his skill, courage and determination, this officer surmounted a most perilous situation, thereby safeguarding the lives of his crew and much valuable equipment."