Claud Stokes facts for kids

Captain Claud Harry Stokes DFC (born March 16, 1884 – died November 7, 1918) was a brave British pilot. He fought in the First World War. He became a "flying ace" by shooting down five enemy planes. He achieved all his victories while flying an Airco DH.4 aircraft.

Claud Harry Stokes's Early Life and Military Start

Where Was Claud Harry Stokes Born?

Claud Harry Stokes was born in Blackheath, a part of south-east London. He was the youngest son of Henry and Harriet Stokes.

What Did Stokes Do Before the War?

Before joining the military, Stokes worked as a mechanical engineer. From 1910, he lived and worked in Rhodesia. In 1916, he returned to England with his wife and family.

Joining the Royal Flying Corps

On June 3, 1916, Stokes joined the Royal Flying Corps. This was the air force of Britain at the time. He started as a second lieutenant. He quickly earned his pilot's license on August 24. He was officially confirmed in his rank on September 19.

Stokes's First Squadron and Injury

Stokes was sent to No. 41 Squadron RFC on October 15, 1916. But after just five days, he was injured in action. He had to return to England to recover.

Becoming a Flying Instructor

After getting better, Stokes became an instructor. He taught other pilots how to fly and fight. On February 3, 1917, he became a Wing Instructor in Gunnery. This meant he taught how to use guns from planes. He was given the temporary rank of captain. On June 5, he became an instructor in Gunnery, graded as an Equipment Officer 1st Class.

Stokes's War Service and Victories

Joining No. 57 Squadron

Stokes was promoted to lieutenant on December 3, 1917. On January 2, 1918, he became a flight commander. This was a leadership role. He was given the temporary rank of captain again. He then joined No. 57 Squadron RFC.

How Stokes Became a Flying Ace

While flying an Airco DH.4 light bomber, Stokes achieved five victories. These are called "aerial victories" when a pilot shoots down an enemy plane.

• His first victory was on June 19, 1918. He shot down a Pfalz D.III plane.
• On June 23, he shot down a Fokker D.VII.
• He scored two more victories on September 16. Both were Fokker D.VII planes.
• His fifth and final victory was on September 21, 1918. He shot down another Fokker D.VII.

The End of Stokes's Service

Stokes's Final Mission

On October 29, 1918, Stokes was flying over Maubeuge, France. His aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire. This is gunfire from the ground aimed at planes. His plane crashed behind the German lines.

Stokes's Death and Burial

Stokes was badly injured in the crash. He sadly died from his wounds on November 7, 1918. His observer, Second Lieutenant Leslie Harvey Eyres, survived the crash. Eyres was taken prisoner by the Germans. Stokes was buried by the Germans in the cemetery at Erquelinnes, Belgium.

Awards and Recognition

After his death, Claud Harry Stokes received two important honors.

• On January 1, 1919, he was given the Distinguished Flying Cross. This is a military award for bravery in air operations.
• On June 3, 1919, he was also "mentioned in dispatches." This means his brave actions were officially recognized in military reports.