The last surviving Second World War Victoria Cross recipient recounts his heroic aerial combat
In short: Captain John Alexander Cruickshank earned the Victoria Cross for his actions during a 1944 mission against a German U-boat. This video details how he managed to save his crew despite suffering severe injuries during the engagement.
On 17 July 1944, Captain John Alexander Cruickshank led an attack against a German U-boat. The mission resulted in the Victoria Cross, the highest military decoration for valour in the face of the enemy, being awarded to Cruickshank. Despite sustaining serious wounds during the confrontation, he successfully piloted his aircraft back to base and ensured the safety of his entire crew upon landing.
The narrative is presented by curator John Delaney and features archival audio from radar operator John Appleton. Cruickshank remains the final living individual to have received the Victoria Cross for actions performed during the Second World War.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Captain John Cruickshank V.C.'s award-winning action in the Second World War
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/ideas-captain-john-cruickshank-v-c-s-award-winning-action-in-the-s.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
