 One night in March 1943 , this officer was detailed for an attack on Berlin . Following the attack and while still over the target area , his aircraft was hit by anti @-@ aircraft fire and severely damaged . The mid @-@ upper turret frame was twisted , the perspex and 2 engine cowlings blown off , the aileron controls damaged and the aircraft forced down to 4 @,@ 000 feet . On the return journey the aircraft was driven off the route and held in a cone of searchlights for 15 minutes ; during this time a further loss of height down to 900 feet occurred . In the face of this perilous situation Pilot Officer Issacson , showing coolness , resolution and skilful airmanship , succeeded in flying his aircraft back to base . This officer is an outstanding captain of aircraft who has a fine record of many successful operational sorties . 
