Hodgson, William Henry

Date of birth:: September 30th, 1920
Date of death:: March 13th, 1941
Buried on:: Commonwealth War Graves Saffron Walden Cemetery
Plot: 40. Grave: 8.
Service number:: 36269
Nationality:: New Zealander (1907-1947, Dominion UK)

Biography

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Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)

Period:: Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:: Pilot Officer
Unit:: No. 85 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:: November 7th, 1940

"In August, 1940. P/O. Hodgson took part with his squadron in an engagement against more than 250 enemy aircraft, severely damaging several of them. Two days later he operated with his squadron against 150 bombers and fighters, and on this occasion destroyed two Messerschmitt 110's, and damaged a Heinkel III. Later in August, 1940, during an engagement against 30 Dornier 215's, escorted by about 100 enemy fighters, he attacked one of the Dornier 215's head-on, severely damaging it, and then engaged and shot down a Messerschmit 109. Although P/O. Hodgson's aircraft was hit and set on fire by a cannon shell he managed to keep the lira under control until he had effected a landing some distance away. By so doing he undoubtedly avoided causing civilian casualties. This officer has exhibited bravery of a hifih order, and a complete disregard of his own personal safety."