Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant

Unit:

No. 61 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

November 30th, 1943

Citation:
"This airman was the flight engineer of an aircraft detailed to attack Dusseldorf Soon after crossing the enemy coast, the aircraft was attacked by a fighter and sustained damage. A few minutes later another fighter attacked. The bomber was struck by a hail of bullets. The windscreen was broken, the wireless apparatus and other important equipment were destroyed and the oxygen system, was rendered useless. The pilot, the wireless operator and the flight engineer were wounded and the navigator was killed. The aircraft became difficult to control but, despite this, the pilot continued to the target, being greatly assisted by Sergeant Norris, whose strenuous efforts were invaluable.  Shortly after the target had been successfully attacked, the pilot collapsed owing to his wounds. Sergeant Norris took over the controls and, at times aided by another member of the crew succeeded in flying the damaged bomber to this country. When an airfield was sighted, Sergeant Norris and his comrade succeeded in rallying the semi-conscious pilot sufficiently to take-over and land the aircraft safely. Not until then, did Sergeant Norris disclose that he had been wounded in the arm in circumstances, fraught with great danger, this airman displayed courage, fortitude and determination of the highest order."