Arthur Louis Aaron

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Arthur Louis Aaron VC, DFM (5 March 1922–13 August 1943) 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.

[edit] Details

He was 21 years old, and an acting flight sergeant in No. 218 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve during the Second World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 12 August 1943 during a raid on Turin, Italy, Flight Sergeant Aaron's bomber was attacked by a night fighter and was very badly damaged. The navigator was killed, other members of the crew were wounded, Flight Sergeant Aaron's jaw was broken and part of his face was torn away. He had also been hit in the lung and his right arm was useless. Despite his terrible injuries he managed to level the aircraft out at 3000ft. and then the bomb aimer took control until he rallied his failing strength enough to direct the difficult landing operation. He died nine hours after the aircraft touched down.

He was an 'old boy' of Roundhay Grammar (now comprehensive) School, Leeds. There is a very noticeable plaque in the main hall of the school to his memory incorporating the deed that merited the VC. He is also one of the very few Jewish recipients of this medal.

Aaron's Victoria Cross is displayed at the Leeds City Museum.