John Dering Nettleton
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Squadron Leader John Dering Nettleton (June 28, 1917- July 13, 1943) was a Rhodesian 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.
[edit] Details
Born on June 28, 1917 in Nongoma, Natal, South Africa, Nettleton was 24 years old, and a squadron leader in the No. 44 (Rhodesia) Squadron, Royal Air Force during the Second World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.
- On April 17, 1942 over Augsburg, Germany, Squadron Leader Nettleton was the leader of one of two formations of Avro Lancaster bombers on a daylight attack on a diesel engine factory.
- Just after crossing into German territory, fighters attacked the formations, and four Lancasters were shot down. Nettleton did not give up, however, holding his two remaining bombers on course and dived down towards the factory, bombing it amidst heavy anti aircraft fire.
- Nettleton survived the incident, his Lancaster limping back to base.
Nettleton died on July 13, 1943, when he was shot down over the Bay of Biscay. His body was never recovered.
Nettleton's medal is not publicly held.
[edit] External links
- Squadron Leader J.D. Nettleton in The Art of War exhibition at the UK National Archives
- Portrait and short biography
- The Augsberg Raid - Official RAF history
