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Russell, Joseph Vincent

Date of birth:
1920 (Lisburn/County Antrim, Ireland)
Date of death:
February 21st, 1944
Buried on:
Commonwealth War Cemetery Durnbach
Plot: 9. Row: E. Grave: 6.
Service number:
R120651
Nationality:
Canadian

Biography

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Flight Sergeant
Unit:
No. 15 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:
October 29th, 1943
Citation:
"One night in October 1943, this airman piloted an aircraft detailed to attack Kassel. Whilst making his bombing run the aircraft was subjected to heavy fire from the ground defences, but Flight Sergeant Russel held to his course and executed his bombing attack. Almost immediately the aircraft was repeatedly hit by machine gun fire from a fighter. Extensive damage was sustained causing the bomber to become difficult to control, but displaying superb airmanship Flight Sergeant Russell flew the crippled bomber to an airfield in this country. Although almost exhausted by his efforts he succeeded in effecting a safe landing. This airman displayed outstanding courage and tenacity."
Conspicuous Gallantry Medal (CGM)

Sources

Photo