Harold Paterson

Pilot Officer · 83712 · United Kingdom

Fate

Unknown

Biography

Awards

• Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) — gazetted 25 March 1941

  One night in March, 1941, this officer was detailed to attack a cruiser of the Hipper class at Brest. While reconnoitring at about 7,000 feet, a flare dropped by another aircraft, illuminated the target, whereupon Pilot Officer Paterson decided to attack. Diving to 1,000 feet, in the face" of heavy opposition from ground defences, he released several very heavy bombs. During the flight, searchlights were machine-gunned and, whilst over the sea, an E-boat was also machine-gunned from a height of only 50 feet. Although his aircraft was severely damaged and difficult to handle, Pilot Officer Paterson succeeded in returning to this country and in landing his aircraft safely. This officer has com.

Source: London Gazette notice — Issue 35116, Page 1738 →