McDermott, Irving Francis

Date of death:: November 1st, 1943
Buried on:: Commonwealth War Cemetery Biguglia
Plot: C. Row: 9. Grave: Coll. 1.
Service number:: 41719
Nationality:: Canadian

Biography

Killed during a training mission.

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Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Flight Lieutenant
Unit:: No. 104 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:: November 23rd, 1943

"One night in October, 1943, this officer piloted an aircraft detailed to attack an objective near Formia. Soon after taking off the main electrical generator failed. Flight Lieutenant McDermott continued to the target, however, the navigator plotting his course by the light from a torch. Whilst over the target, at a low level, the aircraft was heavily hit by fire from the ground defences. Nevertheless, Flight Lieutenant McDermott maintained his run and made a successful attack. Although his aircraft was badly crippled, this pilot made strenuous and gallant efforts to keep it airbornebut eventually was compelled to bring it down on to the sea. The crew were able to clamber aboard the dinghy and, after 2 hours paddling, reached the shore. On this operation, Flight Lieutenant McDermott displayed courage, tenacity and devotion to duty worthy of the greatest praise."

Posthumously awarded