Forde Leathley facts for kids

Forde Leathley (born February 17, 1896 – died August 25, 1982) was a brave pilot from Ireland. He became a famous 'flying ace' during the First World War. A flying ace is a pilot who has shot down five or more enemy aircraft. Forde Leathley was officially credited with eight victories in the air!

Forde Leathley's Early Life

Forde Leathley was born in a place called Trillick, in County Tyrone, Ireland. His father, James Forde Leathley, was a rector, which is a type of church leader. His mother, Elizabeth, was from Suffolk. Forde also had a sister named Muriel.

Serving in World War I

Forde Leathley began his military career in early 1914. He joined the 5th Battalion of the Prince of Wales's Leinster Regiment (Royal Canadians) as a second lieutenant. In 1915, he went to the Royal Military College, Sandhurst, a famous military school. After finishing his training, he joined the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.

In March 1917, Leathley joined the Royal Flying Corps, which was the air force at the time. He was assigned to No. 57 Squadron RFC. This is where he got his first aerial victory! He was flying an F.E.2d plane with Lieutenant C. S. Morice. They forced an Albatros D.III enemy fighter plane down near Buissy.

All of Leathley's later victories were against Albatros D.V fighters. He flew with Major Ernest Joy as his pilot in an Airco DH.4 plane. Together, Joy and Leathley shot down two enemy planes on July 28. They then achieved five more victories in August, including three on August 17 alone!

Military Cross Award

For his bravery and skill, Forde Leathley was given the Military Cross on September 26, 1917. This is a very important award for courage in battle. The award notice said he showed great bravery and dedication. It mentioned his important photo missions and fights against enemy aircraft. He helped to drive down or destroy seven enemy planes. Even when attacked by many enemy planes, his skill helped him succeed.

By late 1917, Leathley started training to become a pilot himself. He earned his pilot's certificate in November 1917. In May 1918, he officially became a flying officer.

Forde Leathley's Air Victories

Here is a list of the aerial victories Forde Leathley was credited with:

Life Between Wars

After World War I, Forde Leathley stayed in the Royal Air Force (RAF). He became a permanent officer in August 1919. He worked as an instructor at a flying school in Egypt. He was promoted to flight lieutenant in 1922. In 1924, he left active service and retired from the RAF in 1925.

World War II Service

When World War II began, Leathley returned to serve his country. In October 1940, he joined the King's Royal Rifle Corps. He was promoted to captain and later held the temporary rank of major.

Personal Life

In January 1920, Forde Leathley became engaged to Ida Foster from London. They were married in April of that year.