William Sanday was posted to II Sqn in the Summer of 1915 to convert to flying the BE-2C. Along with his fellow pilots he flew numerous sorties against the enemy but for one mission in particular his bravery whilst under fire was regarded as being particularly noteworthy. The citation published as a Supplement to the London Gazette on 22 January 1916 read as follows:
For conspicuous gallantry and skill near Hulluch on 1st January, 1916.
"He went out in a very high wind to observe the fire of a battery, and, owing to the clouds, was forced to fly at a height of between 800 and 900 feet. Although continually subjected to very heavy rifle fire from the German trenches, he enabled our battery to obtain several direct hits."
Some 6 days after this engagement he suffered injuries in a crash. He was subsequently posted to 70 Squadron flying the Sopwith 1½ Strutter. Whilst there he received the award of the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) to reflect his work during the summer of 1916. In 1917 he assumed command of 19 Squadron.
For conspicuous gallantry and skill near Hulluch on 1st January, 1916.
"He went out in a very high wind to observe the fire of a battery, and, owing to the clouds, was forced to fly at a height of between 800 and 900 feet. Although continually subjected to very heavy rifle fire from the German trenches, he enabled our battery to obtain several direct hits."
Some 6 days after this engagement he suffered injuries in a crash. He was subsequently posted to 70 Squadron flying the Sopwith 1½ Strutter. Whilst there he received the award of the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) to reflect his work during the summer of 1916. In 1917 he assumed command of 19 Squadron.
