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Sherwood, John Seymour

Nationality:
British (1801-present, Kingdom)

Biography

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Flight Lieutenant
Unit:
No. 144 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:
March 7th, 1941
For gallantry and devotion to duty in the execution of air operations.
Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Squadron Leader
Unit:
No. 97 (Straits Settlements) Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:
January 23rd, 1942
"In December 1941, Squadron Leader Sherwood and Flight Lieutenant Mackid participated as leaders of formations of aircraft, in a daylight attack on the battle cruisers Gneisenau and Scharnhorst at Brest. Extremely heavy and accurate anti-aircraft fire and opposition from enemy fighters was encountered but, although Squadron Leader Sherwood's aircraft was hit several times by shellfire, he skilfully kept his formation together and finally an accurate run was made over the target. Flight Lieutenant Mackid admirably supported Squadron Leader Sherwood and pressed home a successful attack with great determination. Throughout the operation, which demanded a high degree of skill and courage, both these officers played a conspicuous part and contributed materially to the success obtained."

Second DFC received as bar.
Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Squadron Leader
Unit:
No. 97 (Straits Settlements) Squadron, Royal Air Force
Awarded on:
June 30th, 1942
Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
"On the 17th April, 1942, Squadron Leader Sherwood was the leader of one of two formations of 6 Lancaster bombers detailed to deliver a low level attack in daylight on the diesel engine factory at Augsburg. He led the formation at very low level across 600 miles of enemy territory. On approaching the target heavy and accurate anti-aircraft fire was encountered. Nevertheless, showing fine daring and coolness, Squadron Leader Sherwood pressed home the attack at a very low level scoring hits on the factory with his bombs. His aircraft was then hit by anti-aircraft fire and set alight. He continued, however, to lead his section away from the target until his aircraft became uncontrollable.
By his extreme devotion to duty Squadron Leader Sherwood contributed much towards the success of the operation and continued his daring leadership until his aircraft could no longer be flown. His conspicuous bravery on this occasion crowned a long and distinguished career in the service of his country.

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