Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Flight Sergeant

Unit:

No. 84 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

July 15th, 1941

Flight Sergeant Gordon and Sergeant Furney have flown together as pilot and wireless operator air gunner respectively on numerous operational flights. In October, when carrying out an attack at Tobruk, their aircraft was attacked by enemy fighters. The engine was disabled but the attackers were beaten off and Gordon successfully force landed in the desert. On another occasion Gordon and Furney participated in an attack on Kucove oil wells. Harassed by enemy fighters, Furney fought back fiercely until he received a severe head wound. Despite damage to the aircraft Gordon skilfully flew it some 200 miles back to his base. In March, 1941, Gordon, accompanied by Furney, carried out an attack on the Italian Fleet off Cape Matapan. In spite of intense anti-aircraft fire Gordon descended to 4,000 feet and scored two direct hits on a cruiser causing it to slow down, and compelling other vessels to stand by. By their success in this operation, Gordon and Furney helped to bring the Italian Fleet to action. Both these airmen have displayed great skill and determination in accomplishing their allotted tasks." (Since reported missing.)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)