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Sgt. Thomas Mottershead VC, DCM.
Royal Flying Corps 20 Sqd.
from:Widnes, Lancs
(d.12th Jan 1917)
Thomas Mottershead died of wounds on the 12th of January 1917, aged 27. Buried in the Bailleul Communal Cemetery Extension in Bailleul, France, he was the sn of Thomas and Lucy Mottershead, of Widnes; husband of Lilian Medlicott Mottershead, of 31 Lilac Avenue, Widnes, Lancs.
An extract from The London Gazette, No. 29937, dated 9th Feb., 1917, records the following:- "For most conspicuous bravery, endurance and skill, when attacked at an altitude of 9,000 feet; the petrol tank was pierced and the machine set on fire. Enveloped in flames, which his Observer, Lt. Gower was unable to subdue, this very gallant soldier succeeded in bringing his aeroplane back to our lines, and though he made a successful landing, the machine collapsed on touching the ground, pinning him beneath wreckage from which he was subsequently rescued. Though suffering extreme torture from burns, Serjt. Mottershead showed the most conspicuous presence of mind in the careful selection of a landing place, and his wonderful endurance and fortitude undoubtedly saved the life of his Observer. He has since succumbed to his injuries."
Sergeant Mottershead's Distinguished Conduct Medal citation reveals: One of his first operations was low-level bombing raid on a German anti-aircraft battery which he successfully destroyed. On 22 September, with Second Lieutenant C. Street as observer he bombed the railway station at Samain, destroying one ammunition train and strafing another. While climbing away from the target, their aircraft was attacked by a Fokker scout. Accounts of the engagement indicate that it was Mottershead's skilful manoeuvring which enabled Street to shoot the enemy aircraft down. For this action and other displays of gallantry, Sergeant Mottershead was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal and promoted to the rank of Flight Sergeant.
Additional Information:
I have started a statue appeal for Tom in his home town of Widnes. This is the second of three statues of local V.C. holders in Runcorn and Widnes. Todger's statue was unveiled 3/8/14 in Runcorn.
It is hoped to unveil Tom's statue will be unveiled on the 2/6/17. The centenary of Peggy receiving Tom's V.C. from the King. This is providing we can raise the funds in time.
The three statues are not about just the individual, they each represent a group of people: Todger Jones V.C. D.C.M. represents everyone who has served our country, irrespective of what they have or are doing, and where they come from. Only to be forgotten after discharge. Thomas Mottershead V.C. D.C.M. will represent everyone who has and is willing to serve our country irrespective where they come from and what they have done or doing. Thomas Wilkinson V.C. will represent all those who have knowingly gone into action or entering a situation that will cost them their life, whilst serving our Country, irrespective of where they come from.
You will notice none of them represent those that have paid the ultimate price, we have the two Cenotaph's and the many War Memorials for that.
https://www.facebook.com/SgtMottershead
@SgtMottershead
Tony Miller, Secretary & founder of the Sgt. Thomas Mottershead statue appeal Todger Jones statue appeal founder.
Tony Miller
