Sergeant Ross, who flew a Spitfire with No. 601 Squadron, had an eventful sortie. On patrol over the Pescara area his squadron sighted six Messerschmitts, which at once turned back north.
During the pursuit, Ross was able to catch up with one of them and shoot it down, but while he was returning his long-range petrol tank was hit by flak.
It burst into flames which soon enveloped the Spitfire. Ross baled out and landed safely, only to find himself behind the enemy lines.
Undaunted, however, he set off across country and, after a long and difficult trek, reached his squadron.
Flying Officer T. H. Ross, DFC; born Otorohanga, 10 Sep 1921; farmer; joined RNZAF 25 May 1941."
