Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant

Unit:

No. 166 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

January 25th, 1944

"One night in December, 1943, these airmen were wireless operator/air gunner and flight engineer respectively of an aircraft detailed to attack Leipzig. When nearing the target the aircraft was attacked by a fighter and sustained damage, including one of the fuel tanks which was set. on fire. The rear gunner was killed and the mid-upper gunner was wounded. Coolly and promptly, Sergeant Stevenson assumed the responsibility of maintaining watch and also directing the combat manoeuvres of his pilot who thus was able to evade 2 further attacks. Meanwhile, Flight Sergeant Box, who, along with his comrade had disregarded the order to prepare to abandon aircraft, tended to the wounded gunner whose oxygen equipment was useless. He quickly fixed a spare helmet on 'the injured man's head and supplied him with oxygen from bottles; he also rendered efficient first aid before returning to his duties. The fire died away and the pilot held to his homeward course. On the return flight, Flight Sergeant Box and Sergeant Stevenson did everything within their power to assist in the safe return of the aircraft and eventually this country was reached with little petrol to spare. In very trying circumstances, these airmen displayed great courage, coolness and devotion to duty."