Francis Kitto facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Francis Mansel Kitto
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| Born | 1 January 1897 Pontypridd, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Wales |
| Died | 25 June 1926 (aged 29) Pontypridd Cottage Hospital |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army Royal Air Force |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit | Welch Regiment No. 43 Squadron RFC No. 49 Squadron RFC No. 54 Squadron RAF |
| Awards | Military Cross |
Francis Mansel Kitto was a brave pilot from Wales. He was born in 1897 and became a 'flying ace' during World War I. This means he shot down at least five enemy planes. He achieved nine victories in total before he passed away in 1926.
Contents
Early Life of Francis Kitto
Francis Mansel Kitto was born on January 1, 1897. His hometown was Pontypridd, in Wales. His parents were Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Kitto.
Flying High: Kitto's War Adventures
In November 1916, Francis joined the Royal Flying Corps. This was the air force of Britain at the time. He became a 'flying officer,' which is a type of pilot.
First Victories in the Sky
By early 1917, Kitto was sent to 43 Squadron. They were fighting on the Western Front in Europe. On March 17, 1917, he flew a Sopwith 1 1/2 Strutter plane. He achieved his first aerial victory near Arras, France. He forced a German Albatros D.II plane to land. He had two more victories in April and August 1917.
Becoming a Flying Ace
Later, Kitto moved to 54 Squadron. Here, he flew a Sopwith Camel, a famous fighter plane. In December 1917, he was promoted to temporary captain. Between March and July 1918, he achieved six more victories. This brought his total to nine enemy planes. Four planes were completely destroyed, and five were forced down.
Awarded for Bravery
For his amazing courage, Francis Kitto received the Military Cross. This special award was given to him on June 22, 1918.
His award message said:
- He showed great bravery and dedication.
- He attacked targets on the ground with machine guns and bombs.
- He saw many enemy soldiers and dropped his remaining bombs on them.
- He attacked enemy planes, causing one to crash.
- He chased another plane far behind enemy lines and destroyed it.
- He also shot down two other enemy planes.
- He always showed great determination and speed.
After the War: Postwar Career
After World War I, Kitto started flying Airco DH.9 bomber planes in 1919. In June 1924, he officially joined the Royal Air Force. He became a flying officer. Francis Mansel Kitto passed away in Pontypridd, Wales, on June 25, 1926.
