23 July
On This Day, 1974: On 23 July 1974, two RAF Phantom FGR.2s of No. 41 Squadron reached Akrotiri to support reconnaissance and…
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Profiles of the men and women who shaped the Royal Air Force — from its founding officers to the aircrew, engineers and commanders of today.
Distinguished Flying Cross and Bar (DFC)
George Walton Holden
Wing Commander
By February 1943 he held the Distinguished Flying Cross and was awarded a Bar while serving with 102 Squadron; the published citation referred to a sortie in January 1943 in which, despite severe icing, engine failure and difficulty in controlling the aircraft, he pressed on to bomb his target successfully.
George Walton Holden was a decorated Bomber Command officer who briefly led 617 Squadron before being killed on the Dortmund–Ems Canal raid.
View profile → Nationality Awarded in September 1941 as Warrant Officer George Walton Holden, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, 25 Squadron, for gallantry in flying operations against the enemy.
Service Killed in action when his aircraft failed to return during the attack on the Dortmund–Ems Canal.
Years served dfm
Era Second World War
VC
Victoria Cross Recipients
Members of the Royal Air Force and its predecessor services awarded the Victoria Cross — the highest decoration for valour in the face of the enemy.
View all 5 recipients →A–Z Index
16 profilesC
Arthur Coningham Air Marshal · Senior Commander · 19 January 1895–30 January 1948
John Alexander Cruickshank VC Flight Lieutenant · Aircrew · 20 May 1920–9 August 2025
Leonard Cheshire Distinguished Service Order (DSO and Two Bars) · Aircrew · Awarded for gallantry and distinguished service in bomber operations; awarded early in his operational career, with later Bars recognising further sustained leadership on operations.–Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)
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Arthur Harris Marshal of the Royal Air Force · Senior Commander · 13 April 1892–5 April 1984
George Walton Holden Distinguished Flying Cross and Bar (DFC) · Aircrew · By February 1943 he held the Distinguished Flying Cross and was awarded a Bar while serving with 102 Squadron; the published citation referred to a sortie in January 1943 in which, despite severe icing, engine failure and difficulty in controlling the aircraft, he pressed on to bomb his target successfully.
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