Charles Harrison (RAF officer) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Philip Harrison
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| Born | 27 July 1888 Wimbledon, London, England |
| Died | 25 February 1922 Harare, Zimbabwe |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army Royal Air Force |
| Years of service | 1915–1919 |
| Rank | Lieutenant |
| Unit | Royal Engineers No. 98 Squadron RAF |
| Awards | Military Cross Legion d'honneur (France) |
Lieutenant Charles Philip Harrison was a brave British pilot during World War I. He was born on July 27, 1888. He became known as a "flying ace" because he helped shoot down five enemy airplanes.
A Soldier and a Pilot
Charles Harrison started his military career in the British Army. In 1915, he joined the Corps of Royal Engineers. This group built important things like bridges and roads for the army. He served in places like France and German West Africa.
Later, he joined the Royal Flying Corps, which was the air force at the time. He became an "observer officer" in 1918. An observer officer wasn't the pilot; instead, they sat in the plane and helped spot enemy targets or operate machine guns. Harrison flew in a type of plane called the DH.9.
Becoming a Flying Ace
Charles Harrison showed great skill in the air. He achieved his first victory on April 21, 1918. With his pilot, Lieutenant A. M. Phillips, he forced an enemy Fokker Dr.I plane down.
His second victory came on May 8. This time, with Lieutenant N. C. MacDonald, he managed to set an Albatros D.V plane on fire. He continued to be successful. On July 16, he helped take down two more Fokker Dr.I planes. Just two days later, on July 18, he helped destroy a Pfalz D.III. These five victories made him a recognized flying ace.
A Heroic Act
Harrison was awarded the Military Cross for his bravery. This is a very important award for courage in battle. His award was officially announced on September 13, 1918.
The award was given because of an amazing event. Charles Harrison was acting as an observer when his pilot was badly hurt. Even though he wasn't trained to fly, Harrison quickly took control of the damaged plane. He managed to shoot down the enemy plane that had attacked them. Then, with his pilot unable to help, he bravely flew their damaged plane safely back to the airfield. His quick thinking and courage saved his pilot's life and kept their plane from falling into enemy hands.
In late 1918, the French government also honored him. They gave him the Croix de Chevalier of the Legion d'honneur. This is one of France's highest awards.
Charles Harrison left the Royal Air Force in June 1919. He had served his country with great courage during the war.
