David Hughes (RAF officer) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
David James Hughes
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|---|---|
| Born | 16 April 1899 Hoole, Chester, England |
| Died | Unknown |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army (Royal Flying Corps) Royal Air Force |
| Years of service | 1917–1919 |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit | No. 3 Squadron RAF |
| Battles/wars | First World War • Western Front |
| Awards | Distinguished Flying Cross |
Captain David James Hughes (born 16 April 1899) was a brave British pilot during the First World War. He was known as a flying ace, which means he shot down five or more enemy aircraft in air battles.
Contents
Joining the Air Force
David James Hughes joined the Royal Flying Corps in 1917. This was the air force of Britain during the war. He started as a young officer, a second lieutenant, on August 12, 1917. By October 30, he was officially confirmed in his rank.
Learning to Fly
After finishing his pilot training, Hughes spent some time teaching other pilots. This helped him become even better at flying. Later, he was sent to a special group called No. 3 Squadron. Here, he flew a famous airplane called the Sopwith Camel. The Sopwith Camel was a single-seat biplane, meaning it had two main wings. It was very good at dogfights, which are air battles between planes.
Flying Ace Achievements
Between August and October 1918, David Hughes showed great skill in the sky. He achieved five aerial victories:
- He destroyed two enemy aircraft completely.
- He forced two other enemy planes to go down out of control.
- He even managed to capture one enemy aircraft.
Award for Bravery
For his courage and skill, David Hughes received a special award called the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC). This award is given to officers in the Royal Air Force for acts of bravery while flying in active operations against the enemy. His award was officially announced in November 1918.
His award citation described one amazing event: "Lieutenant David James Hughes was a very brave and skilled officer. On September 4, his group of planes was attacked by eight enemy Fokker biplanes. When one of his fellow pilots was in trouble, Lieutenant Hughes went to help. Two enemy planes then attacked him, forcing his plane down to 4,000 feet. His plane's fuel and oil tanks were shot. But he was very clever and managed to fly back towards his own side. One enemy plane chased him. When he was at 2,000 feet, he fought back and shot down the enemy plane, which crashed in his own lines."
After the War
David James Hughes left the Royal Air Force on January 28, 1919, shortly after the war ended. His date of death is not known.
