Augustus Paget (RAF officer) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Augustus Paget
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|---|---|
| Born | 1898 Bromham, Wiltshire, England |
| Died | 30 October 1918 (aged 19–20) † Fontanafredda, Italy |
| Buried |
Fontanafredda Communal Cemetery, Pordenone, Italy
(45°58′46″N 12°34′50″E / 45.97944°N 12.58056°E) |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army Royal Air Force |
| Rank | Second Lieutenant |
| Unit | No. 66 Squadron RAF |
| Battles/wars | World War I • Italian front |
| Awards | Distinguished Flying Cross |
For the British diplomat, see Augustus Paget.
Augustus Paget (1898 – 30 October 1918) was a brave British pilot during World War I. He was known as a "flying ace" because he shot down six enemy aircraft. He earned the Distinguished Flying Cross for his courage.
Contents
Biography
Growing Up
Augustus Paget was born in 1898. He grew up in Bromham, Wiltshire, England. He was one of 13 children in his family.
Joining the Military
Augustus Paget first joined a special army group. Later, he moved to the Royal Flying Corps. This was the air force of Britain at the time.
He started his flight training in late 1917. On 1 January 1918, he became a Second Lieutenant. This is a junior officer rank.
Flying in Italy
In August 1918, Paget was sent to Italy. He joined No. 66 Squadron RAF. This squadron flew planes to fight enemy aircraft.
He quickly showed his skill in the air. On 15 September, he destroyed his first enemy plane. It was a Berg D.I aircraft.
On 25 October, he took down two more enemy planes. These were Hansa-Brandenburg C.I reconnaissance aircraft. He shared one of these victories with another pilot.
Just two days later, on 27 October, he destroyed an enemy observation balloon. These balloons were used to spot troop movements. The next day, he shot down two Albatros D.V fighter planes. They went down in flames.
His Final Flight
On 30 October 1918, Augustus Paget was flying over Fontanafredda, Italy. His plane was hit by anti-aircraft fire. This is gunfire from the ground aimed at planes. He was killed when his plane was shot down.
Remembering Augustus Paget
Augustus Paget is buried in the Communal Cemetery in Fontanafredda. There is also a special plaque for him. It is at Saint Nicholas' Church in Bromham. His older brothers, Edwin and Colin, are also remembered there.
Augustus Paget was given the Distinguished Flying Cross award. This award was given to him after he died. It recognized his bravery and skill as a pilot.
