Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Pilot Officer

Unit:

No. 49 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

October 6th, 1942

"One night in September, 1942, Pilot Officer Jeffreys was the captain of an aircraft detailed to attack a target at Duisburg. After delivering his attack, but whilst still in the target area, Pilot Officer Jeffreys' aircraft was hit by antiaircraft fire; one of the starboard engines was put out of action and the second pilot was severely wounded. Pilot Officer Jeffreys received injuries to his hands but he was able to control the aircraft and so continued the return journey. Whilst over the Dutch coast the other starboard engine failed and preparations were made to abandon the aircraft. On reaching the English coast the port inner engine started to fail and Pilot Officer Jeffreys ordered the crew, with the exception of the wireless operator, to abandon the aircraft. He then continued in search of an aerodrome, but when at a height of 1,000 feet the port inner engine failed completely and a crash landing was made, successfully. Pilot Officer Jeffreys displayed courage and devotion to duty of a very high standard."