Ernest Masters facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ernest Harold Masters
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|---|---|
| Born | 1899 Oldbury, Worcestershire, England |
| Died | 24 December 1918 (aged 18–19) France |
| Buried |
Duisans British Cemetery, Étrun, Pas-de-Calais, France
(50°18′58″N 2°40′22″E / 50.31611°N 2.67278°E) |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army Royal Air Force |
| Years of service | 1917–1918 |
| Rank | Lieutenant |
| Unit | No. 45 Squadron RAF |
| Battles/wars | World War I • Italian Front • Western Front |
| Awards | Croix de Guerre (France) |
Lieutenant Ernest Harold Masters was a brave British pilot during World War I. He was known as a "flying ace" because he shot down eight enemy planes.
Contents
Ernest Masters' Military Journey
Ernest Masters was born in Oldbury, England, in 1899. His parents were George and Fanny Masters.
Joining the Royal Flying Corps
In 1917, Ernest joined the Royal Flying Corps. This was the United Kingdom's air force at the time. He became a temporary officer, called a second lieutenant, on September 26, 1917. By December 29, 1917, he was officially a flying officer.
Flying in Italy
In early 1918, Ernest was sent to No. 45 Squadron RFC. This squadron was based in northern Italy. He flew a famous plane called the Sopwith Camel.
First Victories
Ernest scored his first victories on May 13, 1918. He and another pilot, Lieutenant Francis Stephen Bowles, worked together. They destroyed an Albatros D.III plane over Costa. Soon after, Ernest destroyed an LVG C plane by himself over Frison.
More Success in the Skies
On June 19, Ernest had another great day. He destroyed two Albatros D.V planes over Monte Meatta—Asiago. On July 14, he destroyed a Type D plane over Monte Cismon. He then destroyed an LVG C over Foclatti on August 10. On August 20, he destroyed another Type C plane south of Asiago.
Moving to France
In September 1918, Ernest's squadron moved to France. On October 23, 1918, he forced a Rumpler C plane to land over Coincourt. This was his eighth victory.
French Award
On November 2, 1918, Ernest received a special award from France. It was called the Croix de Guerre avec Palme. This award recognized his bravery in battle.
A Sad End
Sadly, Ernest Masters died in a flying accident on December 24, 1918. He is buried in the Duisans British Cemetery in Étrun, France.
