RAF Type B flying helmet, John Hannah

John Hannah was wearing this flying helmet on the operation of 15 September 1940 when he won his Victoria Cross.

Sergeant John Hannah was just 18 years old when he was awarded the Victoria Cross for extreme bravery. He was the wireless operator on board a Hampden hit by flak and set on fire during an operation to bomb invasion barges in Antwerp. John used his bare hands to put out the flames, receiving severe burns. His health never recovered, and he died seven years later.