"Wing Commander Edwards, although handicapped by a physical disability
resulting from a flying accident, has repeatedly displayed gallantry of
the highest order in pressing home bombing attacks from very low
heights against strongly defended objectives. On 4th July, 1941, he led an important attack on the Port of Bremen, one of the most heavily defended towns in Germany. This attack
had to be made in daylight and there were no clouds to afford
concealment. During the approach to the German coast several enemy ships
were sighted and Wing Commander Edwards knew that his aircraft would be
reported and that the defenses would be in a state of readiness. Undaunted by this misfortune he brought his formation 50 miles overland
to the target, flying at a height of little more than 50 feet, passing
under high-tension cables, carrying away telegraph wires and finally
passing through
a formidable balloon barrage. On reaching Bremen he was met with a hail
of fire, all his aircraft being hit and four of them being destroyed. Nevertheless he made a most successful attack, and then with the
greatest skill and coolness withdrew the surviving aircraft without
further loss. Throughout the execution of this operation which he had planned
personally with full knowledge of the risks entailed, Wing Commander
Edwards displayed the highest possible standard of gallantry and
determination."
From Wg Cdr Edwards' Victoria Cross citation, awarded on July 22, 1941
A true honored ally,
Brian & Melonie
Memorial Statue in Kings Square, Fremantle
Hugh Edwards Ward at Hollywood Private Hospital
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