Cuthbert MacLean facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Cuthbert MacLean
|
|
|---|---|
| Born | 18 October 1886 Whanganui, New Zealand |
| Died | 25 February 1969 (aged 82) |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army (1914–18) Royal Air Force (1918–40) |
| Years of service | 1914–1940 |
| Rank | Air Vice Marshal |
| Commands held | No. 2 (Bomber) Group (1938–40) Middle East Command (1934–38) Aden Command (1929–31) RAF Heliopolis (1928–29) RAF Hinaidi (1925–28) No. 5 Flying Training School (1923–25) 13th Wing (1917–18) No. 11 Squadron (1917) |
| Battles/wars | First World War Second World War |
| Awards | Companion of the Order of the Bath Distinguished Service Order Military Cross Mentioned in Despatches (2) Knight of the Legion of Honour (France) |
Air Vice Marshal Cuthbert Trelawder MacLean (born October 18, 1886 – died February 25, 1969) was a very important officer in the Royal Air Force (RAF). He reached a high rank called Air Vice Marshal. He was known for leading the RAF's Middle East Command from 1934 to 1938. He also received several important awards for his bravery and service, including the Distinguished Service Order and the Military Cross.
Contents
Cuthbert MacLean's Military Journey
Cuthbert MacLean grew up in New Zealand. He studied at Wanganui Collegiate School and Auckland University College. When the First World War began, he joined the 7th Royal Fusiliers, which was a part of the British Army.
Becoming a Pilot
In 1915, Cuthbert MacLean joined the Royal Flying Corps. This was the part of the army that used airplanes. He earned his pilot's license, called an aviator's certificate, in October 1915. He quickly moved up in rank, becoming a leader for different groups of planes and pilots. He led a flight, then a squadron, then a wing, and finally a brigade.
He was awarded the Distinguished Service Order for his excellent service and bravery while fighting in France during the war. This award is given for outstanding leadership and courage.
Leading the Royal Air Force
After the First World War, MacLean continued his career in the newly formed Royal Air Force. In 1929, he became the Air Officer Commanding for British Forces Aden. This meant he was in charge of the RAF forces in that region.
In 1931, he worked at the Air Ministry, which is like the government department for the air force. There, he was the Director of Postings, deciding where air force personnel would be stationed.
From 1934 to 1938, he held a very important position as the Air Officer Commanding for RAF Middle East Command. This made him the top RAF leader in the Middle East.
Later, in 1938, he was put in charge of No. 2 (Bomber) Group. He served in this role during the early parts of the Second World War. He retired from the Royal Air Force in 1940.
Awards and Recognition
Cuthbert MacLean received several honors for his long and distinguished service. Besides the Distinguished Service Order and the Military Cross, he was also mentioned in official reports twice for his brave actions. He was also made a Knight of the Legion of Honour, which is a very high award from France.
