Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Three: Second Lieutenant H. L. Cross, Royal Flying Corps and Royal Air Force, late 20th Hussars, who flew as a Sopwith Camel pilot with 46 Squadron, and was taken prisoner of war on the Western Front, 19 July 1918

1914-15 Star (17762 Pte. H. L. Cross, 20th. Hrs.); British War and Victory Medals (2. Lieut. H. L. Cross. R.A.F.) generally good very fine or better (3) £260-£300

Herbert Lawrence Cross was born in May 1895, and was a native of Bury, Lancashire. He was employed as an Engineering Draughtsman prior to serving during the Great War with the 20th Hussars in the French theatre of war from 21 September 1915.

Cross was commissioned Temporary Second Lieutenant (on probation) in the Royal Flying Corps, 20 September 1917. Having carried out training as a pilot, Cross was posted to 46 Squadron (Sopwith Camels) in France in June 1918. He was seen to dive on a dump from 8,000 feet whilst on an offensive patrol, 19 July 1918, and was classified as ‘missing in action.’

Cross was later confirmed as a prisoner of war, and interned at Ingolstadt POW Camp. He was repatriated in December 1918, and was discharged in March the following year.

Sold with copied research, including photographic image of recipient in uniform.