David Coke facts for kids

David Arthur Coke was a brave pilot in the Royal Air Force during World War II. He was born on December 4, 1915, and sadly passed away on December 9, 1941. During his time as a flight lieutenant, he was known for his courage in air battles. He helped shoot down or damage several enemy planes.

David Coke is also remembered for his friendship with the famous author Roald Dahl. They became close friends while serving together in the Royal Air Force.

Who Was David Coke?

David Arthur Coke was born in Norfolk, England. He was the second son of Thomas Coke, who was the 4th Earl of Leicester. King Edward VIII of the United Kingdom was even his godfather! David went to Trinity College, Cambridge, for his education.

David Coke's Role in World War II

David Coke joined the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (RAFVR) in June 1939. This was just before World War II began. In April 1940, he started his flight training. He quickly became an acting pilot officer in September 1940.

Fighting in the Battle of Britain

By August 1940, David was flying a Hawker Hurricane plane. He was part of No. 257 Squadron RAF during the important Battle of Britain. On August 12, 1940, his plane was badly hit over the English Channel. He was injured, but his plane was fixed. In December 1940, he joined No. 46 Squadron RAF and became a flying officer.

Adventures in Other Campaigns

David continued to fight in other major campaigns. He was part of the Balkans campaign with No. 33 Squadron RAF. Later, he joined No. 80 Squadron RAF for the Syria–Lebanon campaign.

Friendship with Roald Dahl

It was during his time with No. 80 Squadron that David became good friends with Roald Dahl. Dahl later wrote about their friendship in his book, Going Solo. Dahl described David as "warm-hearted and brave and generous."

When Dahl first met David, David told him how tough the situation was. He explained that the RAF didn't have radar in that area. Instead, Greek farmers on mountains would call in enemy plane sightings. David said, "Now and again it does," when asked if it worked.

Receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross

While serving in Libya, David Coke showed great leadership and bravery. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC). This award is given for courage during air operations.

His award was for an attack on enemy vehicles in November 1941. He led his squadron in bombing and machine-gunning many tanks and trucks. This attack helped block a main road. The award also recognized his success in leading air battles.

David Coke's Final Mission

Sadly, David Coke was killed in action on December 9, 1941. He was flying in Acroma, Cyrenaica, Africa, when his plane was shot down by enemy Bf 109s. He was just 26 years old. David is buried at Knightsbridge War Cemetery in Acroma, Libya.