Thomas Gray (VC)

For Thomas Gray, the classical scholar, see Thomas Gray.

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For Thomas Gray, co-inventor of the seismometer, see Thomas Lomar Gray.

Related Topics:
Seismometer - Thomas Lomar Gray

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Thomas Gray was an English recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

Related Topics:
English - Victoria Cross - British - Commonwealth

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He was 25 years old, and a Sergeant in the 12 Squadron, Royal Air Force during the Second World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

Related Topics:
Sergeant - 12 Squadron - Royal Air Force - Second World War

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On 12 May 1940, over the Albert Canal, Belgium, one bridge in particular was being used by the invading army, with protection from fighter aircraft, anti-aircraft and machine-guns. The RAF was ordered to demolish this vital bridge, and five Fairey Battle bombers were despatched with Sergeant Gray as the navigator in the plane leading the bombing attack. They met an inferno of anti-aircraft fire, but the mission was accomplished, much of the success being due to the coolness and resource of the pilot (Donald Edward Garland) of the leading aircraft and the navigation of Sergeant Gray. Unfortunately the leading aircraft and three others did not return.

Related Topics:
12 May - 1940 - Albert Canal - Belgium - Donald Edward Garland

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