On 12 August 1940, 83 Squadron's aircraft were part of a raid against the Dortmund-Ems Canal. Two aircraft had been lost due to anti-aircraft fire prior to Learoyd making his attack, which would involve an attack at low level. During his attack, Learoyd's aircraft was caught in the searchlights, taking two hits in one wing. Despite this Learoyd was still able to provide his bomb aimer with a steady platform in order to deliver his bombs. Learoyd then nursed the Hampden back to England, arriving in the vicinity of Scampton at . Although the aircraft was flyable, its hydraulic systems had been damaged and the wing flaps were inoperable. The undercarriage indicators had also failed and rather than risk a landing in the dark, Learoyd circled for three hours before making a landing at first light. He was awarded the Victoria Cross for his courage, skill and determination.