In Memory Of

WALLACE, THOMAS YOUNG

Service Details
Age:
 28
Date of Birth:
 1916-10-05
Service No:
 149635
Rank:
 Squadron Leader
Unit:
 609 Sqdn.
Regiment:
 Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
Date of Death:
 1944-11-11
Cause of Death:
 Killed in action, Typhoon MN205, shot down by flak over Dunkirk
Commemoration
Grave Reference:
 2. G. 10.
Cemetery:
 PIHEN-LES GUINES WAR CEMETERY
Localitly:
 Pas de Calais
Country:
 France
Additional Information
Decorations:
 D F M
Citations:
 LG 25 October 1940 - "In a period of three weeks, Sergeant Wallace has destroyed seven enemy aircraft and probably another four. On one occasion he became separated from his squadron and, single-handed, pursued a formation of enemy bombers back to the French coast. While in mid-channel he was attacked by six enemy fighters, and although his aircraft was severely damaged in the resulting battle, he shot down one enemy aircraft and damaged another. Sergeant Wallace has displayed conspicuous courage and fighting ability."
Son of William Francis and Ruth Agnes Wallace, of Johannesburg, South Africa. F.C.I.S. Credited with five victories in the Battle of Britain, and became the first South African to be awarded the DFM (Distinguished Flying Medal). Commissioned in 1943, he later commanded 609 Squadron for two months when he was shot down and killed over France. His brother also died on service. On Jeppe High School for Boys Roll of Honour. "One of the few" Battle of Britain pilot