Medal Bar of Wing Commander Eric James Brindley Nicolson

As a pilot during the Battle of Britain in 1940, Nicolson was awarded RAF Fighter Command’s only Victoria Cross.

During a mission to deflect an incoming raid over Southampton, his Hawker Hurricane Mk I was hit by four cannon shells from an enemy aircraft. Despite sustaining serious injuries, and with his Hurricane ablaze, he continued to pursue and shoot down a Messerschmitt Bf 110. Medals, from left to right: Victoria Cross, Distinguished Flying Cross, 1939–1945 Star with Battle of Britain clasp, Aircrew Europe Star, Burma Star, 1939–1945 Defence Medal, 1939–1945 War Medal. This medal bar was acquired by the RAF Museum with assistance from the National Heritage Memorial Fund.