Poignant date marks WWI hero’s bravery
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TOMORROW marks the centenary of a Widnes airman’s widow receiving her late husband’s posthumous Victoria Cross (VC).
Sgt Thomas Mottershead was killed in January 1917 during the First World War.
The Royal Flying Corps pilot was flying over the Western Front when enemy fire ignited his plane.
He landed his aircraft behind British lines and saved the life of his observer, but died aged just 24 on January 12, 1917, from his injuries and is buried in Bailleul, France.
Sgt Mottershead’s citation to receive the VC was published in the London Gazette on Monday, February 12.
It said: “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 quently rescued.
“Though suffering extreme torture from burns, Sgt Mottershead showed the most conspicuous presence of mind in the selection of a landing place, and his wonderful endurance and fortitude subse- undoubtedly saved the life of his observer.
“He has since succumbed to his injuries.”
Sgt Mottershead’s widow Peggy received her husband’s medal from King George V in Hyde Park, London, on June 2, 1917.
In the investiture 351 awards were given, including 11 VCs and four of which were posthumous, which included Sgt Mottershead.
A total of 313 servicemen received their awards personally, 26 were received by relatives, one of whom was Peggy.
There were also 12 awards of the Royal Red Cross to nurses.
Peggy went to Hyde Park with son Sydney – who would have been around two-and-a-half years old – and two of her husband’s sisters but only Peggy was allowed into the Royal enclosure.
A statue appeal to place a bronze statue of the Widnes airman – who was born at 6 Vine Street – is approaching its fundraising target of £60,000.
Appeal founder and secretary Tony Miller said: “We need to remember our heroes of our past, not just those who were at the front line, but those who have done extra ordinary things for mankind, and that’s why we should remember the centenary of the investiture of Tom’s Victoria Cross.”
The statue’s original unveiling date of June 2, 2017, in Victoria Park was changed to April 1 next year which coincides with the centenary of the RAF’s formation.
For more information and to donate visit www. mottersheadstatueappeal.co.uk 6.00pm