Alfred William Saunders facts for kids

Captain Alfred William Saunders (born January 16, 1888 – died May 22, 1930) was a brave Irish pilot. He was a 'flying ace' during World War I, which means he shot down many enemy planes. He achieved twelve aerial victories. After the war, he continued to serve in the Royal Air Force until 1927.

Early Life

Alfred Saunders was born in Dublin, Ireland. His father was Matthew J. Saunders from County Wicklow.

World War I Hero

Alfred Saunders joined the army in 1915. He became a second lieutenant in the Royal Field Artillery. He fought in the Gallipoli campaign before joining the Royal Flying Corps. This was the early version of the Royal Air Force (RAF). He learned to fly a biplane in July 1916.

In October 1917, he joined No. 60 Squadron RAF in France. Here, he flew the S.E.5a, a fast single-seat fighter plane.

First Victories

Saunders got his first aerial victory on May 10, 1918. He destroyed a German Pfalz D.III fighter plane. Six days later, he shot down an Albatros D.V. On May 23, he worked with Captain James Belgrave to destroy another Albatros D.V.

On June 9, he and Captain Belgrave took down two Hannover reconnaissance planes. They set one on fire and sent the other spinning out of control. With these victories, Saunders became a 'flying ace'. This title is given to pilots who achieve five or more aerial victories.

A Daring Attack

On July 2, 1918, Saunders performed a very brave act. He led his group of six planes in an attack on six German fighters. He dived 8,000 feet (about 2,400 meters) towards them. Saunders shot down one Pfalz D.III. The other two enemy planes crashed into each other while trying to escape his attack. Saunders was given credit for all three planes.

On July 29, he was made a flight commander. This meant he was in charge of a group of planes. He was also given the temporary rank of captain. On August 1, he shot down a new Fokker D.VII plane. A week later, he took down a German two-seater plane. On August 9, 1918, he destroyed two more Fokker D.VIIs.

Distinguished Flying Cross

On August 3, 1918, Alfred Saunders received the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC). This is a special award for bravery in air combat. His award citation praised his courage. It mentioned the time he led his group against six enemy planes. He shot down one, and two others crashed while trying to get away from him.

After the War

After World War I, Saunders stayed in the Royal Air Force for a few years. He left the RAF in 1927.

Sadly, on May 22, 1930, Alfred Saunders was flying a de Havilland Gipsy Moth plane in Te Awamutu, New Zealand. His plane went into a tail spin (a type of uncontrolled spin) and crashed. He and his passenger passed away from their injuries.