Description
Physical description
goggles
History note
Flying goggles worn by Sergeant Thomas Mottershead (20 Squadron, Royal Flying Corps) on his final mission on the Western Front during the First World War. Flying over Ploegsteert (Belgium) on 7 January 1917 his FE2d aircraft was attacked by enemy scouts, hit and caught fire. During the combat Sergeant Mottershead manoeuvred his machine in such a way as to prevent the flames harming his observer, Lieutenant Gower, and although in great pain, flew the aircraft safely back over British lines. However, the badly damaged FE2d collapsed on landing, throwing Lieutenant Gower clear, but trapping Mottershead in the burning wreckage. He died in hospital at Bailleul (France) on 12 January 1917 as result of his injuries. For his gallant and selfless action in saving the life of his observer Sergeant Mottershead was awarded the Victoria Cross. His was the only Victoria Cross to be awarded to a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) during the First World War
London Gazette extract as quoted on the Commonwealth Graves Commission website: '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.'
Mottershead was 27 years old at the time of his death. He was the son of Thomas and Lucy Mottershead of Widnes and husband of Lilian Medlicott Mottershead of 31 Lilac Avenue, Widnes, Lancashire. He is buried at Bailleul Communal Cemetery