Campbell Hoy facts for kids

Campbell Alexander Hoy was a brave British pilot who became a "flying ace" during the First World War. This means he shot down many enemy aircraft. He was born on February 13, 1893, and passed away on March 9, 1985.

He was a skilled airman, officially credited with eleven aerial victories. After the First World War, he continued to serve in the Royal Air Force. He even served through the end of the Second World War, showing his dedication to his country.

Early Life and Training

Campbell Alexander Hoy was born in Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, England. His father, Henry Hoy, was a chemist. In 1901, young Campbell lived in Campbell House.

He later studied at Armstrong College, Newcastle, which was part of the University of Durham. In January 1915, he joined the Officers Training Corps. He was then made a second lieutenant in the Northern Cyclist Battalion. This was his first step into military service.

Flying in the First World War

On May 16, 1917, Campbell Hoy joined the Royal Flying Corps (RFC). He became a flying officer, working as an observer. An observer's job was to spot enemy planes and operate the machine guns.

First Battles in the Sky

On May 25, 1917, his aircraft was shot down by a German ace named August Hanko. Both Hoy and his pilot were injured. But this didn't stop him.

An observer (back to camera) in a Royal Aircraft Factory FE2d demonstrates defence against rear attacks.

Hoy started achieving victories on June 29, 1917. He was flying in a Royal Aircraft Factory FE.2d, a type of plane where the observer sat in the front. Most of his victories happened when he was teamed with pilot Richard M. Trevethan. Together, they were a strong team in the sky.

His last victory was on July 9, 1918, with Arthur Solly as his pilot. In total, Hoy destroyed five German Albatros D.V fighter planes. He also forced six more to crash or land out of control. This earned him the title of a flying ace.

Promotions and New Roles

On August 25, 1917, Hoy was promoted to lieutenant. Later, in December 1917, he became an assistant instructor in gunnery. This meant he taught others how to use aircraft guns. In January 1918, he was reclassified as a 2nd class equipment officer.

Between the World Wars

After the First World War ended, Campbell Hoy continued his military career. In January 1919, he became a temporary captain in the Technical Branch. By August 1919, he officially joined the Royal Air Force as a permanent captain.

Family Life

On September 2, 1920, Hoy married Ena Olive Ball. They had two children together: a daughter named Ena Bertha Margaret Hoy and a son named Campbell Henry Alfred Hoy.

Climbing the Ranks

Hoy continued to rise through the ranks in the Royal Air Force.

• On January 1, 1926, he was promoted to flight lieutenant.
• On January 1, 1936, he became a squadron leader.
• On January 1, 1939, he was promoted again to wing commander.

Second World War and Retirement

As the Second World War began, Wing Commander Hoy was transferred to the Technical Branch on April 24, 1940. He also received another promotion, becoming a group captain. This was a very senior rank.

Group Captain Hoy retired from service on February 13, 1946. He had served his country for many years, through two major world wars.