*WW1, Original Photograph and Miniature Victoria Cross, Australian Royal Flying Corps Hero Frank McNamara*
This is a very unusual and collectible WW1 commemorative photograph and miniature Victoria Cross. The photograph measure 6.5cm x 9cm and is mounted on red silk. The frame measures 11cm x 18.6cm and is a leather shagreen frame with the brass crest of the RFC (Royal Flying Corp). The Cross itself measures 1.5 x 1.5cm, 5.3cm in length including the ribbon.
Frank McNamara was the first and only Australian airman in World War I to receive the Victoria Cross, awarded for his daring rescue of a fellow pilot on 20 March 1917. Serving with the Australian Flying Corps, McNamara was part of a raid near Gaza when a shell prematurely exploded, severely injuring his leg. Despite the wound, he spotted his comrade, Captain Douglas Rutherford, whose plane had crash-landed behind enemy lines, with Turkish cavalry approaching.
McNamara managed to land his single-seat Martinsyde aircraft near Rutherford, who climbed onto the wing to escape. Due to the added weight and his injury, McNamara's plane crashed on takeoff. The two men set fire to the Martinsyde to prevent its capture and hurried to Rutherford's damaged aircraft. As Rutherford worked on repairs, McNamara held off enemy troops with his revolver, while two other squadron pilots strafed the advancing cavalry from above. Once the engine was started, McNamara, despite severe blood loss and pain, flew the aircraft 70 miles back to base, ensuring both men's survival.
For this act of extraordinary bravery, McNamara was awarded the Victoria Cross on 8 June 1917. He continued his career in the newly formed Royal Australian Air Force, eventually rising to the rank of Air Vice-Marshal. McNamara retired in 1946 and passed away in 1961.
*Condition*
The photograph, cross and frame are in excellent condition given their age. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
