Alfred Mills facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Alfred Stanley Mills
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|---|---|
| Born | 26 June 1899 Belfast, Ireland |
| Died | Unknown |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army Royal Air Force |
| Rank | Lieutenant |
| Unit | No. 20 Squadron RAF |
| Awards | Distinguished Flying Cross |
Lieutenant Alfred Stanley Mills (born 26 June 1899 – date of death unknown) was a brave pilot during World War I. He was known as a flying ace, which means he shot down many enemy aircraft. Mills was officially credited with 15 aerial victories during his time in the war.
Alfred Mills studied at Campbell College, Belfast before he joined the military. In 1916, he was treated at Somerville Hospital in Oxford. He later joined No. 20 Squadron RAF as an observer gunner. This role meant he helped spot enemy planes and fired weapons from the aircraft.
A Flying Ace in Action
Mills achieved his first aerial victory on 9 May 1918. He managed to set an enemy Fokker Dr.I plane on fire during a dogfight. A dogfight is a close-range air battle between fighter planes. By the end of May, he had already achieved eight victories.
He continued to show great skill in the air. On 2 July 1918, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. This is a special award given for bravery in air combat. Mills achieved one more victory in July. His final six victories happened in September 1918. Most of his victories were against enemy fighter planes, showing his excellent aim and courage.
Teamwork in the Skies
Alfred Mills often flew with other skilled pilots. He achieved nine of his victories while Captain Thomas Middleton was flying the plane. He also won three times when Lieutenant Paul Iaccaci was the pilot. This shows how important teamwork was in air battles during World War I.
Honours and Awards
Distinguished Flying Cross
Alfred Mills was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his outstanding bravery. This award recognizes members of the Royal Air Force for acts of courage during air operations. The award citation praised him as a "capable and gallant observer." It noted his success in destroying enemy machines due to his "excellent marksmanship." He was recognized for taking down "many enemy aircraft in a short period of time." He often fought against larger groups of enemy planes than his own.
