The QUEEN has been graciously pleased to approve the Posthumous award of the
Distinguished Service Cross
to the undermentioned in recognition of gallant and distinguished service during
operations in the South Atlantic:
Distinguished Service Cross
Lieutenant Commander Gordon Walter James BATT, Royal Navy.
Lieutenant Commander Batt, HMS HERMES, played a key role in the air battle and
operations over the Falklands. On 4th May 1982, he led a daring and aggressive
attack on the airstrip at the Goose Green settlement during which his number two
was shot down and the pilot killed. He participated in five other low level
attacks against defending targets, notable, on two occasions, against Port
Stanley airfield. He also flew up to four air defence sorties per day, sometimes
combining further ground attacks with these sorties. He was killed on a night
mission prior to another low level attack on the airfield.
Lieutenant Commander Batt faced the danger and very high stress with
characteristic cheerfulness which was a fine example to the other aircrew. He
knew the odds against him but his courage never failed and his aggressive flying
on 29 operational missions was in the highest traditions of the Service.
