Hero Chris honoured for dramatic rescue

Flt Lt Chris Gordon

FAMILY and friends are preparing to welcome a hero when lifesaving and courageous pilot Chris Gordon returns to his home town tomorrow.

The former Failsworth High student, who grew up in Hollinwood, has been awarded one of the military’s highest honours, the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC), for his exceptional bravery on the frontline in Afghanistan.

Flight Lieutenant Gordon (29) was forced to make a snap life or death decision to evacuate 30 comrades amid a Taliban ambush while coming under heavy fire in his Chinook helicopter in the Nahri Saraj district of Helmand province last August.

Despite having one engine down and flying dangerously close to the ground, Flt Lt Gordon managed to fly the soldiers, from 1 Royal Irish regiment, safely back to Camp Bastion.

This week his dad, Derrick, told the Chronicle of his exceptional pride for his son who has served alongside Prince Harry.

“His mum, Sheila, and I are very, very proud of Chris,” said Derrick. “To be honest he didn’t tell us everything about it, he just said he’s had a few skirmishes! His brother Jonathan told us a bit more but that’s typical of Chris, it’s just part of the job for him and he doesn’t like to be in the limelight.”

Chris has had three tours of Afghanistan and is due to fly out again in the next few months.

“It is difficult, especially when you see what’s going on out there on the news,” added Derrick.

“I’m a bit calmer about it than Sheila but it’s his job and it’s what he wants to do.”

Chris —- who learned of his honour last week — will be presented with his medal at Buckingham Palace later this year with Derrick and Sheila proudly watching on.
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