Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Flight Sergeant

Unit:

No. 426 (Thunderbird) Squadron, Royal Canadian Air Force

Awarded on:

November 19th, 1943

Recommendation (dated 23 October 1943 when he had flown 20 sorties (122 hours). "During the attack on Leipzig on the night of the 20th October 1943, Flight Sergeant Stuart was captain of a Lancaster aircraft which was twice engaged by enemy night fighters. The first attack came from a Messerschmitt 109 while en route to the target. The attack was pressed home and direct hits from cannon and machine guns raked the bomber causing serious damage and wounding the mid-upper air gunner. After a total of four attacks the Messerschmitt 109 was forced to break off the engagement due to the pilot's skilful evasive action. Flight Sergeant Stuart was no sooner on his course when a Junkers 88 attacked. The pilot again evaded three attacks, his superb airmanship enabling him to outmanoeuvre the enemy fighter with his crippled bomber. Despite severe damage, including shattered cockpits and turrets, holed petrol tanks, damaged hydraulics and navigational instruments destroyed, and a gunner wounded, the pilot decided to complete his mission and again set course for the target. After successfully bombing the primary objective, Flight Sergeant Stuart guided his crippled bomber back to base and made a masterly landing.

This display of offensive spirit, gallantry and superb airmanship in face of heavy odds undoubtedly saved the aircraft and the crew. I consider this devotion to duty and gallant conduct fully merits the award of the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal (Flying)."