Frank Hobson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Frank Hobson
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Born | Leeds, Yorkshire, England |
8 October 1894
Died | 5 May 1951 | (aged 56)
Allegiance | United Kingdom |
Service/ |
British Army Royal Air Force |
Rank | Captain |
Unit | Royal Engineers No. 65 Squadron RFC |
Battles/wars | First World War |
Awards | Military Cross |
Frank Harold Hobson was a brave British pilot during the First World War. He was born on October 8, 1894, and sadly passed away in 1951. Frank Hobson became known as a "flying ace" because he shot down or forced down 15 enemy aircraft. This was a huge achievement in the early days of air combat!
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Frank Hobson: A World War I Flying Ace
Frank Hobson was born in Leeds, a city in Yorkshire, England. When the First World War began, he joined the British Army. He first served in the Royal Engineers, a group that built and maintained things for the army.
Joining the Royal Flying Corps
In 1917, Frank Hobson decided to become a pilot. He joined the Royal Flying Corps, which was the air force of Britain at the time. He started as a temporary second lieutenant. This was the beginning of his amazing journey in the skies.
Becoming a Flying Ace
Frank Hobson joined No. 65 Squadron RFC in September 1917. This is where he earned his first victory. He was flying a Sopwith Camel, a famous British fighter plane. He managed to force an enemy Albatros D.V plane down out of control.
From September 1917 to March 1918, he was incredibly successful. He scored victories almost every month! He became known for his skill and bravery in the air.
His Amazing Achievements
By the end of his combat duty, Frank Hobson had achieved a remarkable record. He had destroyed ten enemy aircraft completely. He also forced five other enemy planes to land out of control. This made him one of the top pilots of the war.
For his outstanding bravery and dedication, Frank Hobson received the Military Cross. This important award was given to him on March 4, 1918. The award recognized his courage in battle. The award citation said he showed "splendid resource and determination on all occasions." It also mentioned how he once flew very low to attack enemy soldiers on the ground.
After the War
After his last victory in March 1918, Frank Hobson stopped flying in combat. He was assigned to No. 72 Training Squadron in England. Here, he helped train new pilots. He left the military in February 1919, after the war had ended. Frank Hobson passed away in Leicester, England, on May 5, 1951. He is remembered as a true hero of the skies.