A Legacy of Bravery and Humility
For over eight decades, the name Flight Lieutenant John Cruickshank was synonymous with duty, loyalty, sacrifice, humility, and, above all, courage. His life story is one of remarkable resilience and unwavering commitment to his country. Cruickshank passed away at the age of 105, marking the end of an era that once defined the values of a generation.
His death coincided with the world preparing to commemorate Victory over Japan (VJ) Day 2025, a fitting tribute to the conclusion of the 1939-45 war 80 years ago. Cruickshank’s legacy is not just in his actions during the war but also in the quiet dignity he carried throughout his long life.
A Heroic Act That Defined a Lifetime
Cruickshank holds a unique place in history as the last surviving recipient of the Victoria Cross (VC) for an action in the air and the last living Scottish recipient of the VC, Britain’s highest gallantry award. In May 2020, he became the first VC recipient to reach the age of 100, a testament to both his physical endurance and his indomitable spirit.
What makes his story even more extraordinary is the fact that he survived an attack that left him with 72 separate injuries, including two wounds to his lungs and ten to his lower limbs. He nearly bled to death during the incident, yet he continued to fight and lead his crew back to safety.
Early Life and Military Career
Born on May 20, 1920, in Aberdeen, John Alexander Cruickshank was the son of James Cruickshank, a civil engineer, and Alice. He attended Aberdeen Grammar School, followed by the Royal High School and Daniel Stewart’s College in Edinburgh. In 1938, he began his career as an apprentice with the Commercial Bank of Scotland. The following year, he joined the Territorial Army Gunners, later transferring to the Royal Air Force in June 1941.
After training in Canada and the United States, Cruickshank received his pilot’s wings and joined No 210 Squadron of anti-submarine flying boats based on the Shetland Islands. It was during this time that he would carry out the act of bravery that earned him the Victoria Cross.
The Attack on the U-Boat
On July 17, 1944, Cruickshank led a mission aboard an RAF Catalina flying boat, tasked with providing anti-submarine cover for the British Home Fleet. When a German U-boat was sighted, he immediately initiated an attack. Despite initial failure to release depth charges, he pressed forward, knowing the element of surprise had been lost.
The second attack was met with intense enemy fire, resulting in the death of the navigator/bomb aimer and injuries to several crew members, including Cruickshank himself. Despite his severe wounds, he took control of the aircraft and released the depth charges, successfully sinking the submarine.
A Grueling Return Journey
The Catalina was heavily damaged, filled with fumes from exploding shells, and far from its base. Cruickshank, bleeding heavily and suffering from multiple injuries, made the decision to head toward a fog bank to assess the situation. He then returned home, navigating through treacherous conditions while managing his own injuries.
Throughout the journey, he remained focused, even refusing morphine to ensure he could continue his duties. At times, he collapsed at the controls, allowing the second pilot to take over. But as they neared their destination, he insisted on resuming command, guiding the aircraft to a safe landing.
Recognition and Later Life
For his extraordinary actions, Cruickshank was awarded the Victoria Cross. The citation in The London Gazette praised his determination, fortitude, and devotion to duty. His second pilot, Flight Sergeant Jack Garnett, was also recognized with the Distinguished Flying Medal.
After the war, Cruickshank resumed his banking career, working in Asia and Africa. He married Marian Beverley in 1955, and she passed away in 1985. For the next four decades, he lived alone, but each year he traveled to the Shetlands to honor his fallen navigator, Flying Officer John Dixon.
A Quiet Man with a Magnificent Memory
Those who knew Cruickshank described him as a man of quiet strength and humor. Even in his later years, he retained a remarkable memory of his time in the RAF. Fellow officer Bob Kemp recalled how, even when he was nearly 90, Cruickshank could recall every detail of the aircraft and its operations.
Despite his heroic deeds, Cruickshank rarely spoke about his wartime service or the VC. In 2008, he reflected: “You don’t get involved in that kind of thing – thinking of any decorations or any recognition. It was regarded as duty.” He believed that many others had equally compelling stories from that time.
Honoring a True Hero
Today, the world continues to face conflicts, making it more important than ever to remember and honor men like Flight Lieutenant John Cruickshank VC. His life exemplifies the values of courage, sacrifice, and humility. While his passing marks the end of an era, his legacy lives on in the hearts of those who remember his incredible bravery.
