Alan Wilkinson (RAF officer) facts for kids

Lieutenant Colonel Alan Machin Wilkinson (21 November 1891 – June 1972) was a brave British pilot during the First World War. He was known as a "flying ace" because he shot down or helped shoot down 19 enemy aircraft. This was a huge achievement! He was one of only about 25 pilots who received the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) twice during the war.

Early Life and Education

Alan Machin Wilkinson was born in Eastbourne, England. His father was a civil engineer. Alan went to Repton School and then to Oriel College, Oxford for his education. For a short time, he worked as a school teacher in Winchester.

World War I Hero

When World War I began in 1914, Wilkinson joined the army. He first served in the 9th (Cyclist) Battalion of the Hampshire Regiment. Soon after, he decided to become a pilot. He learned to fly at Farnborough Airport in 1915. After his training, he joined the Royal Flying Corps, which was the air force at the time.

Becoming a Flying Ace

Wilkinson was sent to No. 24 Squadron RFC. He flew a single-seat fighter plane called the Airco DH.2. In February 1916, he became a "flight commander," meaning he led a group of planes.

He achieved his first aerial victories on May 16, 1916, by forcing two enemy planes to land. He quickly gained more victories, reaching five by June 18. This made him a "flying ace," a title given to pilots who achieved five or more aerial victories. By the end of August 1916, he had ten victories! He was one of the top pilots flying the DH.2 plane. His plane, DH.2 No. 5966, was even nicknamed "Wilkie's Bus."

Awards and Recognition

For his bravery and skill, Alan Wilkinson was awarded the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) in October 1916. This award is given for outstanding service in battle. His award citation said he showed "great dash in attacking enemy machines" and had "accounted for five" by August. It also mentioned how he outsmarted an enemy plane that attacked him from behind.

He was also mentioned in official reports by General Sir Douglas Haig, a top British commander. After this, he went back to England and became an instructor at the Central Flying School. He also got married in December 1916.

More Victories and a Second DSO

In 1917, Wilkinson returned to France. He joined No. 48 Squadron RFC and flew a new two-seater fighter plane called the Bristol F.2 Fighter. Even though the British suffered many losses during April 1917 (known as "Bloody April"), Wilkinson continued to achieve victories.

On April 9, 1917, he claimed six enemy aircraft, though he was officially credited with four. By April 22, he had achieved his 19th and final victory.

Because of his amazing skill and bravery, he received a "bar" to his Distinguished Service Order in May 1917. A bar means he received the same award a second time. His second citation praised him for saving a wounded pilot and for destroying eight enemy machines in just ten days.

Later War Service

In May 1917, Wilkinson was promoted to major and became a squadron commander. He led No. 23 Squadron RFC, flying the SPAD S.VII plane. In August, he became ill and was sent to the hospital. Later, he was diagnosed with "neurasthenia," which is now understood as a type of combat stress.

In April 1918, he was promoted to acting lieutenant-colonel. He commanded one of the RAF's schools for aerial fighting. After the war ended, he left the Royal Air Force in 1919 and the army in 1921.

After the Wars

After World War I, Alan Wilkinson worked in advertising. He eventually became a director at a company called the London Press Exchange in 1938.

World War II Service

When World War II began, Wilkinson rejoined the military. He was commissioned as a pilot officer in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve in February 1939. He was promoted to flying officer in July.

He was mentioned in official reports again in 1941. He served as the commanding officer of RAF West Malling from March to June 1941. Then he commanded RAF Martlesham Heath from June 1941 to November 1942. Wilkinson left the Royal Air Force in August 1944 and was allowed to keep the rank of wing commander.

Alan Machin Wilkinson passed away in Maidstone, Kent, in June 1972.