Basic Details Surname Nicolson Forenames James Brindley Gender Male Information stated on memorial Alternative forename Eric James Brindley War Second World War (1939-1945) Served or died Died Honours Victoria Cross, Distinguished Flying Cross Notes He is listed as E J B Nicolson on IWM 72905: he was the only member of Fighter Command to be awarded the VC. Primary Service As stated on memorial Service (Primary - Stated) RAF Rank / Title (Primary - Stated) Wing Commander Our References Service (Primary - Our reference) Royal Air Force/ Royal Flying Corps Rank / Title (Primary - Our reference) Wing Commander Death and Burial details Country of death Indian Ocean Year of death 1945 Month of death May Day of death 2 Manner of death reference Killed in Action