Ernest Antcliffe facts for kids

Sergeant Ernest Antcliffe (born October 12, 1898 – died June 19, 1974) was a brave soldier and airman during World War I. He was known as a "flying ace" gunner. This means he helped shoot down many enemy planes from the sky. He achieved seven aerial victories along with his pilots. These victories happened between June 25, 1918, and the end of the war.

Ernest Antcliffe: A World War I Airman

Joining the Royal Flying Corps

Ernest Antcliffe first joined the army as a private. He was part of the 270th Infantry Battalion. Later, he moved to the Royal Flying Corps. This was the United Kingdom's air force during World War I.

In the Royal Flying Corps, he became an observer and gunner. He sat in the back seat of a Bristol F.2 Fighter plane. His job was to spot enemy aircraft and fire at them. He flew with No. 88 Squadron.

A Skilled Gunner

Ernest Antcliffe was very good at his job. He helped his pilots achieve many victories. Three of his seven victories happened while he was flying with pilot Allan Hepburn.

Together, they shot down several enemy planes. He was credited with setting three German Fokker D.VII planes on fire in mid-air. Two other enemy planes were completely destroyed. He also forced two more planes to go out of control and crash.

Receiving a Special Award

For his bravery and skill, Ernest Antcliffe received the Distinguished Flying Medal. This is a very important award given for courage in air combat. The award was officially announced on June 3, 1919. After the war, he lived a quieter life away from the public eye.