Charles Napier (RAF officer) facts for kids

Captain Charles George Douglas Napier, MC, DCM (1892 – 15 May 1918) was a very brave British pilot during World War I. He was known as a "flying ace" because he shot down nine enemy aircraft. Sadly, he was killed in action in 1918. He received several important medals for his courage.

Biography: Charles Napier's Early Life

Charles George Douglas Napier was born in London, England, in 1892. Before he joined the army, he worked for an insurance company's fire department.

Joining the Army: A Brave Start

Napier began his military service as a private soldier in the Army Cyclist Corps. This was a special unit that used bicycles. In August 1915, he was a corporal, which is a slightly higher rank. He was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his amazing bravery.

A Medal for Courage: Givenchy 1915

His medal was given for his actions on May 25 and 26, 1915, in a place called Givenchy. He showed great courage when he was separated from his group. He stayed in the trenches with other soldiers. He helped them hold onto a captured trench by using his bombs.

On February 24, 1916, France also honored him. He received the Médaille militaire, a French military medal. This was to recognize his excellent service during the war.

Becoming a Pilot: Royal Flying Corps

The Bristol F.2B Fighter was a powerful two-seater plane used in World War I.

Later, Napier joined the Royal Flying Corps, which was the air force of Britain at the time. He became a temporary second lieutenant on September 23, 1917. He first flew with No. 20 Squadron. Then, in early 1918, he moved to No. 48 Squadron.

Napier's Aerial Victories

Napier achieved his first aerial victory on February 7. This meant he shot down an enemy aircraft. On April 4, he was promoted to acting-captain. He continued to be very successful, bringing his total victories to nine. On May 9, he had an amazing day, shooting down three enemy planes! He and his gunner, Walter Beales, were also shot down that day, but they were not hurt.

Just six days later, on May 15, 1918, Captain Napier was killed in action. He was shot down along with his gunner. On June 12, the Germans confirmed his death.

The Military Cross: Honoring His Daring Flights

Ten days after his death was confirmed, he was awarded the Military Cross. This medal recognized his incredible bravery and skill. The award description highlighted his actions:

He once flew very low, just 100 feet above the ground. He dropped four bombs on enemy troops, causing many casualties. Later, while on patrol, he saw three enemy planes. He attacked a two-seater plane, which crashed. Then he attacked one of the scout planes, which spun out of control and crashed. In total, he was credited with two enemy machines crashed and four driven down out of control. He showed amazing judgment, determination, and daring.