Name: |
WALLACE |
Given Name: |
THOMAS YOUNG |
Initials: |
T Y |
Service No: |
149635 |
Trade: |
Pilot |
Rank: |
Squadron LeaderOther Casualties of this Rank |
Regiment: |
Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve |
Unit: |
609 Sqdn.Other Casualties from this Unit |
Date of Death: |
1944-11-11Other Casualties on this
Date |
Date of Birth: |
1916-10-05 |
Age: |
28 |
Cause of Death: |
Killed in action, Typhoon MN205, shot down by flak over Dunkirk |
Decorations: |
D F M |
Citations: |
LG 25 October 1940 - "In a period of three weeks, Sergeant Wallace has destroyed seven enemy aircraft and probably another four. On one occasion he became separated from his squadron and, single-handed, pursued a formation of enemy bombers back to the French coast. While in mid-channel he was attacked by six enemy fighters, and although his aircraft was severely damaged in the resulting battle, he shot down one enemy aircraft and damaged another. Sergeant Wallace has displayed conspicuous courage and fighting ability." |
Additional
Information: |
Son of William Francis and Ruth Agnes Wallace, of Johannesburg, South Africa. F.C.I.S. Credited with five victories in the Battle of Britain, and became the first South African to be awarded the DFM (Distinguished Flying Medal). Commissioned in 1943, he later commanded 609 Squadron for two months when he was shot down and killed over France. His brother also died on service. On Jeppe High School for Boys Roll of Honour. "One of the few" Battle of Britain pilot |
This information was last verified for accuracy: 2020-09-17
