Frank Hudson (aviator) facts for kids

Frank Neville Hudson was a brave British pilot during World War I. He was known as a "flying ace" because he shot down six enemy aircraft. He was born on November 4, 1897, and sadly passed away on June 6, 1922.

Frank Hudson's Story

Flying in World War I

Frank Hudson started his military journey at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst. In September 1915, he became a second lieutenant in the Buffs (East Kent Regiment). Soon after, he joined the Royal Flying Corps, which was the early version of the Royal Air Force.

He earned his pilot's license in October 1915. He learned to fly a Maurice Farman biplane at the military flying school. By November, he was officially a flying officer.

A Brave Pilot

Hudson joined No. 15 Squadron. On February 21, 1916, he was hurt during a mission. Even though he was badly wounded in the head, he finished his important aerial reconnaissance. He landed his plane safely before losing consciousness.

For his amazing bravery and skill, he received the Military Cross award. He was only 18 years old at the time. He had already fought off enemy planes many times.

Returning to the Skies

After recovering from his injuries, Hudson returned to flying. He joined No. 54 Squadron. Here, he flew the Sopwith Pup, a famous fighter plane.

He achieved his first victory on January 27, 1917. He shot down an enemy reconnaissance plane over Courcelette. He forced another enemy plane down on February 13.

In March, he was promoted to flight commander, acting as a captain. On April 5, Hudson and his team helped destroy an enemy observation balloon. He then shot down two more enemy aircraft that month.

He achieved his sixth and final victory on July 11. He destroyed an Albatros C aircraft.

Captured by the Enemy

Just two days later, on July 13, Hudson's plane was shot down. This happened between Bruges and Ostend. He was captured by enemy aircraft from Jasta 20.

At first, he was reported missing. But by September, his family learned he was alive and unwounded. He was a prisoner of war at Karlsruhe. Hudson remained a prisoner until World War I ended in November 1918. Later, he was recognized for his valuable service while in captivity.

After the War

In August 1919, Frank Hudson officially joined the Royal Air Force as a lieutenant. He left his position in the Army at the same time. In January 1921, he was promoted to flight lieutenant.

In February 1922, he was sent to Iraq to join No. 6 Squadron RAF. Sadly, on May 31, he crashed his Bristol F2b plane while landing. He died from his injuries on June 6, 1922.

Frank Hudson is buried in the Ma'asker Al Raschid RAF Cemetery, near Baghdad, Iraq.