Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant

Unit:

Army Air Corps (Bradford-on-Avon)

Awarded on:

January 27th, 1944

Citation:
"In July 1943, Sergeant Bayley was first pilot in a Waco Glider detailed for flight to Sicily. Throughout the flight, he was faced with very adverse weather. For five hours, he was unable to leave his position in the glider and, owing to the strength of the wind, his hands were soon rubbed raw by the wheel of the glider. Eventually, he made an excellent descent in the sea and at once saw to the safety of his passengers. Assured of this, he dived into the interior of the submerged aircraft, salvaging arms and equipment, and afterwards he swam around encouraging the men on the wing of the glider until they were rescued.

Throughout this trying experience, Sergeant Bayley showed great courage and fortitude, giving no indication of the pain or difficulties he was encountering and, by his cheerful confidence, set a magnificent example to all. "