Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Flight Sergeant

Unit:

No. 78 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

February 15th, 1944

"This officer and airman were pilot and flight engineer respectively of an aircraft detailed to attack Magdeburg one night in January, 1944. During the operation the aircraft was attacked by a fighter and sustained much damage. The astro-dome was shot away, the mid-upper and rear turrets were put out of action and the hydraulic gear was damaged; the port inner propeller blade was also damaged. The fighter made repeated attacks but Flight Sergeant Irwin, standing with his head protruding through the aperture which had been previously covered by the astro-dome, gave the necessary directions to his pilot who was thus able to out-manoeuvre and eventually evade the attacker. Later, one of the starboard engines had to be feathered. Nevertheless, Flight Lieutenant Shard flew the aircraft back to this country where he landed the bomber safely in spite of badly damaged flaps and burst tyres on two of the landing wheels. This officer and airman displayed great courage, determination and devotion to duty."