Cedric Edwards facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Cedric George Edwards
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|---|---|
| Born | 5 June 1899 Hampstead, London, England |
| Died | 27 August 1918 (aged 19) Vicinity of Jigsaw Wood, France |
| Commemorated at |
Arras Flying Services Memorial, Pas de Calais, France
|
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
Royal Navy Royal Air Force |
| Years of service | 1917–1918 |
| Rank | Lieutenant |
| Unit | No. 12 Squadron RNAS No. 9 Squadron RNAS/No. 209 Squadron RAF |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards | Distinguished Flying Cross |
Lieutenant Cedric George Edwards was a brave British pilot during World War I. He was born on June 5, 1899, and sadly passed away on August 27, 1918. He became known as a "flying ace" because he shot down seven enemy aircraft. This article tells you more about his life and his amazing achievements.
Contents
Early Life and Joining the War
Cedric George Edwards was born in Hampstead, a part of London, England. His parents were John Frederick and Elizabeth Ann Edwards.
When he was old enough, Cedric decided to join the war effort. He joined the Royal Naval Air Service (RNAS) on September 7, 1917. This was a special part of the navy that used airplanes. He quickly became an officer.
Becoming a Pilot
After joining, Cedric went through training with No. 12 Squadron. This is where he learned how to fly military planes. Once his training was complete, he was sent to No. 9 Squadron.
On April 1, 1918, the Royal Naval Air Service joined with another air force group to form the new Royal Air Force (RAF). So, No. 9 Squadron became known as No. 209 Squadron RAF.
Flying Ace Achievements
Cedric flew a type of plane called a Sopwith Camel. This was a famous fighter plane used during World War I. Between April 11 and August 11, 1918, Cedric showed incredible skill in the air.
He successfully shot down or forced down seven enemy aircraft. Four of these victories he achieved by himself. The other three he shared with other pilots, including famous aces like Roy Brown, Robert Foster, and Thomas Luke.
His Final Mission and Honor
On August 27, 1918, Cedric Edwards was flying near Jigsaw Wood in France. His plane was hit by anti-aircraft fire from the ground. Sadly, he was killed.
His body was never found, but he is remembered at the Arras Flying Services Memorial in France. This memorial honors airmen who died in the war and have no known grave.
Cedric was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross after his death. This is a very important award for bravery in air combat. His award was announced on September 20, 1918.
The award citation praised his courage. It said he was fearless and attacked enemy troops at low heights. It even mentioned one time he flew so low that his plane's wheels touched the ground while attacking an airfield. He was a true hero.
