| Albert Matthew Osborne | |
|---|---|
| Born | 19 October 1906 Grimsby, England |
| Died | 1 April 1942 (aged 35) Malta |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/branch | Royal Air Force |
| Years of service | 1940–1942 |
| Rank | Leading Aircraftman |
| Battles/wars | World War II |
| Awards | George Cross |
Leading Aircraftman Albert Matthew Osborne GC, known as Matt Osborne,[1] of the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve was awarded the George Cross for the "unsurpassed courage and devotion to duty" he showed during incessent German attacks on Malta. Among his many acts of valour he made safe torpedoes in burning aircraft, rescued a pilot from a burning plane and worked to rescue trapped airmen amid heavy enemy bombing. He was killed on the 2nd of April 1942 by an explosion while fire fighting in a similarly courageous manner.
His citation, published in the London Gazette on the 10th of July 1942, concluded "This airman's fearless courage and great leadership on all occasions have been beyond praise. The Air Officer Commanding, Royal Air Force Mediterranean, has stated that he was " one of the bravest airmen it has been my privilege to meet."[2]
He was born on the 19 October 1906 in Grimsby and enlisted in the RAF in July 1940.[3]
Osborne is buried at the Malta (Capuccini) Naval Cemetery.[4]