Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant

Unit:

No. 102 (Ceylon) Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

June 16th, 1942

Citation:
"One night in' May, 1942, Sergeant Batchelder was the captain of an aircraft detailed to attack Mannheim. Shortly after crossing the Dutch coast, on the outward journey, the aircraft was damaged by enemy shell-fire, but the journey was continued .and the target bombed. On the return journey, one engine failed to function but height was maintained. After crossing the Dutch coast, the aircraft was attacked by an enemy fighter. Skilfully handling his damaged aircraft, Sergeant Batchelder outmanoeuvred his attacker and enabled his own gunners to deliver accurate bursts of fire. The enemy fighter was seen diving away steeply and it is believed to have been destroyed. Sergeant Batchelder then flew on to tin's country and made a skilful landing in difficult circumstances.
Throughout, this airman displayed great skill, courage and coolness."

LG 35597/2650.