Leslie Crooks
Wing Commander · 44054 · United Kingdom
- Died
- 18 August 1943, aged 33
- Fate
- Killed in action
Biography
Not known
Burial / commemoration
- Cemetery
- Berlin 1939-1945 War Cemetery, Germany
Operations on this date. 2 raids in this archive were flown on the night of 18 August 1943: Operation Hydra · The Peenemünde Raid. (Cross-reference by date — not in itself confirmation this airman flew it.)
Timeline
-
25 May 1943
Gazetted: DSO
Distinguished Service Order -
18 August 1943
Died
aged 33
Awards
-
Distinguished Service Order (DSO) — gazetted 25 May 1943
This officer is an ideal leader, whose ability and untiring efforts have been reflected in the high standard of efficiency of his squadron. His courage and skill were admirably demonstrated during a recent attack on Duisburg. When approaching the target his aircraft was raked by cannon fire from an enemy fighter. Wing Commander Crooks skilfully evaded the attacker but his aircraft had sustained much damage. Although one aileron and half the port tail plane had been shot away, while the hydraulic and electrical systems were rendered inoperative, Wing Commander Crooks flew the bomber back to this country. Unfortunately, it was impossible to effect a safe landing but, when the crew were forced.
Source: CWGC casualty record: CROOKS, LESLIE → · Commonwealth War Graves Commission