Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Acting Flying Officer

Unit:

No. 619 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Awarded on:

December 5th, 1944

Citation:
"This officer and airman was captain of an aircraft detailed for a mine-laying mission in the Kattegat one night in October, 1944. After leaving the target area the aircraft was attacked by a fighter. Flying Officer Strachan manoeuvred with great skill but his aircraft was hit by the enemy's machine gun fire. A fire commenced in the fuselage below.
The aircraft had sustained much damage and was difficult to control. A large hole had been burned in the fuselage. The hydraulic system had been Tendered unserviceable and the bomb doors were in the open position. Nevertheless, Flying Officer Strachan flew the aircraft to base and executed a successful crash landing. This officer displayed a high degree of skill and determination throughout."

LG 36826/5579-5580.