Heroism in the Skies
Distinguished WWII Medal Group of Wing Commander 'Jumbo' Gracie to be Offered at Dawsons
17/07/2025
Dawsons is proud to present a remarkable and historically significant group of World War II medals, awarded to flying ace Wing Commander Edward John “Jumbo” Gracie of the Royal Air Force. Offered within Dawsons’ inaugural Discovery Sale, scheduled for Wednesday 17th September, this exceptional group carries a pre-sale estimate of £6,000–£8,000.
Decorated for extraordinary bravery and leadership, Gracie's flying record reads like a chapter from an aviation epic. Over the course of his distinguished service during the Second World War, he was credited with shooting down seven enemy aircraft, sharing in the destruction of three more, with a further five probably destroyed and six damaged. His courage and skill in combat earned him the Distinguished Flying Cross, awarded in 1940 and cited in the London Gazette:
“This officer has destroyed seven enemy aircraft and damaged another five. By his outstanding leadership, skill and courage, he has proved an excellent example to all.”
The Medals
The group comprises five medals, representing a life of service, sacrifice, and heroism:
- Distinguished Flying Cross, reverse dated 1940, in original Royal Mint case
- 1939–45 Star, with Battle of Britain bar
- Africa Star
- Air Crew Europe Star
- War Medal 1939–1945, with Mentioned in Despatches oak leaf
These medals were presented to his widow, Patricia Mary Gracie, and have remained in the family ever since.
The Man Behind the Medals
Born on 21st September 1911 in Acton, Edward Gracie began his RAF journey in 1930 but was dismissed after three years. Undeterred, he rejoined as a Reserve Officer and was serving with 79 Squadron at the outbreak of war. In 1940, during the pivotal Battle of Britain, he joined 56 Squadron flying Hurricanes, and it was here he achieved his first confirmed aerial victories.
Despite being shot down and suffering a broken neck in August 1940, Gracie returned to active duty later that year with 601 Squadron, involved in testing the Airacobra Bell P-39 aircraft—unique as the only RAF unit to operate this American fighter.
His leadership became even more critical during the Siege of Malta in 1942. Posted to 126 Squadron, he played a key role in reinforcing the island’s defence, notably leading 47 Spitfires off HMS Eagle, ensuring their safe arrival to Takali just before facing the Luftwaffe in combat. In April 1942 alone, he was credited with three confirmed kills, two probable, and two damaged enemy aircraft.
Later promoted to acting Wing Commander, Gracie was entrusted with overseeing Malta’s aerial defences—a position he handled with distinction before returning to the UK in July 1942.
Following a series of instructional roles, Gracie was given command of 169 Squadron, flying de Havilland Mosquitoes in night intruder missions supporting RAF Bomber Command over Nazi-occupied Europe. Tragically, on 15th February 1944, his aircraft was attacked over Hanover. While his navigator survived, Gracie was killed in action. He was posthumously Mentioned in Despatches in June 1944 and is buried in Hanover War Cemetery.
Legacy
Wing Commander Gracie’s service reflects the valour and sacrifice of the RAF’s finest during one of the darkest chapters in modern history. His medals are not only symbols of personal gallantry but also a tangible connection to the Battle of Britain, the Siege of Malta, and the relentless aerial campaigns of the Second World War.
Dawsons is honoured to offer this important group of medals as part of our first Discovery Sale, offering collectors, historians, and institutions the opportunity to preserve a unique piece of British military history.
For further information or, to consign items for the sale, please feel free to contact us directly: