Clive Glynn facts for kids

Clive Beverley Glynn (born April 9, 1893 – died December 4, 1946) was a brave British soldier and pilot. He started his military career as a regular soldier in World War I. Later, he became an officer and joined the Royal Flying Corps. He trained as a fighter pilot and became a "flying ace," which means he shot down at least five enemy aircraft. Clive Glynn achieved eight victories in the air. He also served briefly in World War II but had to leave due to poor health.

Early Life

Clive Beverley Glynn was born in Liverpool, Lancashire, England. He was one of eleven children. His father, Dr. Thomas Robinson Glynn, was a well-known doctor. He was also a Professor of Medicine at Liverpool University.

World War I Service

Clive Glynn first joined the 10th (Scottish) Battalion of the Liverpool Regiment. He started as a private, which is the lowest rank for a soldier. But he quickly showed his skills and was promoted. In November 1914, he became a second lieutenant, which is an officer rank. He was promoted again to lieutenant in December 1914.

In 1917, Clive Glynn decided to join the Royal Flying Corps. This was the air force branch of the British military at the time. He wanted to become a pilot. He trained hard and became a flying officer.

After his pilot training, he joined No. 56 Squadron RFC. Later, he was moved to No. 74 Squadron RFC. He returned to France with this new squadron in early 1918. This was where much of the fighting happened on the Western Front.

Becoming a Flying Ace

Clive Glynn scored his first aerial victory on April 29, 1918. This was just after the Royal Flying Corps became part of the new Royal Air Force (RAF). A "flying ace" is a pilot who has shot down five or more enemy aircraft. Clive Glynn became a flying ace by achieving eight victories.

He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC). This is a special award for bravery in air combat. He received it after shooting down two enemy planes in one flight on October 1, 1918.

His award citation said:

Distinguished Flying Cross

Lieutenant (Acting-Captain) Clive Beverley Glynn (Liverpool Regiment).

This officer has shown remarkable skill and bravery in aerial combat. He never hesitated to attack, even when outnumbered. He has shot down four enemy machines, including two in a single flight.

Clive Glynn's Air Victories

Clive Glynn was known for his courage in the sky. Here is a list of his aerial victories during World War I:

After World War I

After the war, Clive Glynn became engaged to Marian King in February 1919. She was from Dawlish, Devon.

He officially left the Royal Air Force on September 30, 1921.

Clive Glynn returned to serve in World War II in May 1939. He joined the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. However, he had to leave the service in May 1941. This was because of poor health.

Clive Glynn passed away on December 4, 1946. He was buried in Cullompton Cemetery on December 9.