Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Flight Lieutenant

Unit:

No. 209 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

October 23rd, 1945

Citation:
"This officer and airman were pilot and front gunner in a Sunderland aircraft which attacked two small enemy vessels in August, 1945. In spite of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire from both vessels, Flight Lieutenant McKendrick went into the attack at low level. Flight Sergeant Thorpe used his guns most effectively and, due largely to his accurate shooting, both the vessels were set on fire. The Sunderland was hit by the enemy's bullets and became difficult to control. Nevertheless, Flight Lieutenant McKendrick flew safely to base. This pilot and his gunner displayed a high degree of skill and co-operation in this spirited action."

Simultanously the DFM was awarded to Flight Sergeant Thorpe.