Edwin Cole (RAF officer) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Edwin Stuart Travis Cole
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|---|---|
| Born | 26 December 1895 Bristol, England |
| Died | 1984 (aged 88–89) |
| Service/ |
British Army Royal Air Force |
| Years of service | 1916–1918 1939–1954 |
| Rank | Squadron Leader |
| Unit | No. 60 Squadron RFC No. 1 Squadron RFC |
| Awards | Military Cross |
| Other work | Served during Second World War. |
Squadron Leader Edwin Stuart Travis Cole MC (born 26 December 1895 – died 1984) was a British flying ace during World War I. This means he was a pilot who shot down at least five enemy aircraft. He achieved eight aerial victories in total. Later, he returned to military service in 1939 for World War II.
Contents
Early Life and Beginnings
Edwin Stuart Travis Cole was born in Bristol, England, on 26 December 1895. His parents were Ruben and Jessie Cole. As he grew up, he trained to become a mechanical engineer. This job involves designing and building machines.
World War I Service
Before becoming a pilot, Cole earned his Aviator's Certificate No. 2160. He learned to fly on Caudron biplanes at the Ruffy-Baumann School in Hendon.
Joining the Royal Flying Corps
On 29 April 1916, he officially joined the Royal Flying Corps (RFC). This was the air force of the British Army before it became the Royal Air Force. He started as a probationary second lieutenant. This was a starting rank for new officers. By August, his rank was confirmed.
First Victories
On 15 September 1916, Cole was assigned to No. 60 Squadron RFC. He flew a Nieuport fighter plane. This is when he achieved his first aerial victory.
Moving to No. 1 Squadron
Later, Cole was moved to No. 1 Squadron RFC. He continued to fly a Nieuport. He won two more aerial battles in March 1917. Then, during a tough period known as Bloody April, he achieved four more victories. Two of these were against enemy observation balloons. These balloons were used to spot enemy positions.
Capturing an Enemy Plane
On 1 May 1917, Cole and another flying ace, Frank Sharpe, worked together. They managed to capture a German Albatros D.III fighter plane near Roulers-Elverdinghe. On the very same day, Cole was promoted to lieutenant. After this, he was taken out of active combat duty.
On 6 July 1918, he received another promotion. He became a temporary captain.
World War II Service
After World War I, Cole's military record isn't detailed until 1939. At that time, he allowed a garage he owned in Downend to be used. It became a first aid post and a shelter during air raids.
Joining the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
On 21 March 1939, he joined the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. He started as a pilot officer on probation. By 31 August 1939, his rank was confirmed. He was also promoted to flying officer.
New Roles and Promotions
It seems Cole was not able to fly combat missions during World War II. On 27 May 1940, he was moved to General Duties. This meant he took on other important tasks on the ground. A year later, on 27 May 1941, he was promoted to flight lieutenant. His final promotion during the war was on 1 July 1944. He became a temporary squadron leader.
After World War II
On 10 February 1954, Edwin Stuart Travis Cole officially left his reserve commission. He was allowed to keep the rank of squadron leader.
He passed away in 1984 in Wiltshire, England.
Honours and Awards
Military Cross
Edwin Stuart Travis Cole was awarded the Military Cross. This is a medal given for bravery during battle. The award citation praised his actions:
- He showed great bravery and dedication to his duty.
- On one occasion, flying his scout plane, he attacked and shot down an enemy two-seater biplane.
- He also successfully brought down two enemy observation balloons.
- He always showed amazing courage and leadership.
