Michael Nicholson Crossley
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Michael "Red Knight" Crossley | |
|---|---|
| Nickname | "Red Knight" |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/branch |  Royal Air Force |
| Years of service | 1936– |
| Rank | Air Marshall |
| Unit | No. 32 Squadron RAF |
| Commands held | No. 32 Squadron RAF |
| Battles/wars | World War II |
| Awards | Distinguished Flying Cross Distinguished Service Order |
Squadron Leader Michael "Red Knight" Crossley DFC and DSO was a Royal Air Force Flying ace who, during the Second World War, led No. 32 (The Royal) Squadron RAF in the Battle of Britain. Crossley shot down 20 enemy aircraft and shared in the destruction of two others and one damage. Worrell also had one unconfirmed kill. All of his victories were scored in the Hawker Hurricane.[1]
Contents |
[edit] RAF
[edit] Early Life
Crossley was educated at Eton College and joined the RAF in 1936.
[edit] Second World War
Crossley first saw combat during the Battle for France and had claimed six enemy aircraft destroyed, including four Messerschmitt Bf 109s.[2] As a result of his actions he was awarded the D.F.C. on the 21 June 1940.
Crossley was promoted to Squadron Leader after the departure of John "Baron" Worrall to Biggin Hill. Between 12 - 18 August he shot down another 10 aircraft and was credited with one shared. Crossley survived being shot down twice on 18 and 25 August.[3].
Crossley was awarded the D.S.O. on the 20 August 1940. Crossley's operational flying career ended when he contracted tuberculosis. Crossley was nicknamed "Red Knight" after he had commanded "red section" of No. 32 Squadron.[4]
[edit] References
- Holmes, Tony. Hurricane Aces 1939 - 1940. London: Osprey Publishing. 1998. ISBN 978-1-85532-597-5
