Dead pilot award bid snubbed
MINISTERS have rejected a plea for a gallantry award for a bomber pilot who died to save a town during the Second World War.
Hero William Mcmullen, 33, stayed at the controls of his Lancaster as it plunged in flames toward Darlington, Co Durham, in 1945.
The Royal Canadian Air Force pilot officer rejected his six-man crew’s pleas to bale out with them.
He only just prevented the plane hitting a housing estate and was killed when it crashed in a field.
His bravery in sacrificing himself was not recognised by the RCAF but has never been forgotten by the town.
A road near the crash site was named after him and a memorial installed. Locals still gather there on the January 13 anniversary. The town’s new Tory MP Peter Gibson sought the help of Defence Minister Johnny Mercer in arranging a posthumous honour but his plea was turned down.
He said Mr Mercer told him: “No matter what the circumstances, it’s felt that those with full access to the facts were best placed to judge on recognition.”
Mr Gibson said: “It was a disappointing answer. This is important to the people of Darlington. We should find a way to recognise bravery after the event.”
William was on a routine exercise when an engine caught fire. He told crew who urged him to jump too: “It’s only me for it – there are thousands below.”
Mcmullen remembrance ceremony organiser Howard Wilson said: “What he did was incredible. It’s wrong not to honour him.”