George Gardiner (RAF officer) facts for kids

George Cecil Gardiner (born March 28, 1892 – died July 30, 1940) was a brave pilot and a true hero from World War I. He was known as a 'flying ace' because he successfully shot down six enemy aircraft during his time in the air. He also served in World War II and received several important awards for his courage.

Early Life and Army Start

George Gardiner was born in Poona, India. His father, Charles Gardiner, was a soldier in the Worcestershire Regiment. George went to the Duke of York's Royal Military School in Dover, Kent, from 1901 to 1906. After finishing school, he joined the British Army.

World War I Heroics

Joining the Royal Flying Corps

George Gardiner started his military career as a corporal in the 16th (The Queen's) Lancers. In 1915, he became an officer in the Royal Irish Regiment. Later, he joined the Machine Gun Corps. In October 1916, he transferred to the Royal Flying Corps (RFC), which was the air force at the time. He started as an observer, helping pilots spot things from the sky.

He served with No. 14 Squadron RFC in the Middle East. After that, he trained to become a pilot himself. By June 1917, he was flying planes. He was then sent to No. 47 Squadron RFC to fight on the Macedonian front.

Becoming a Flying Ace

Gardiner achieved his first victory on October 1, 1917. He was flying a B.E.12 plane and forced an enemy Albatros C aircraft down. He was hurt later that month but quickly returned to flying. In November, he destroyed an Albatros D.III while flying a DH.2. Even when his gun jammed, soldiers on the ground confirmed the enemy plane was destroyed.

On April 1, 1918, the Royal Flying Corps joined with the Royal Naval Air Service to create the Royal Air Force (RAF). Gardiner was moved to a new group called No. 150 Squadron RAF. On June 3, he received the Distinguished Flying Cross for his bravery.

Flying a Sopwith Camel, he got his third victory on June 6, shooting down another Albatros D.III. He then destroyed an Albatros D.V on June 12 and another Albatros C on June 25. With five victories, he officially became a "flying ace." His sixth and final victory came on September 3, when he destroyed another Albatros D.V.

After the War

Continuing in the RAF

After World War I, George Gardiner stayed in the RAF. He was honored by France with the Chevalier of the Legion of Honour and the Croix de guerre.

He continued to rise through the ranks. In 1922, he was promoted to flight lieutenant while serving in Iraq. He later worked at the Air Ministry, helping with training. He even spent some time on duty in Estonia.

Promotions and New Roles

In 1930, Gardiner was promoted to squadron leader. He was sent to No. 55 Squadron in Iraq. In 1931, he received the Distinguished Service Order for his excellent service in Iraq.

He became a Chief Flying Instructor in Egypt in 1934. In 1937, he was promoted to wing commander and took command of No. 216 (Bomber Transport) Squadron in Heliopolis.

World War II and Passing

On March 1, 1940, George Gardiner was promoted to group captain. Sadly, he passed away on July 30, 1940, at Helmieh Hospital while serving as the commander at RAF Helwan. He was buried at the Cairo War Memorial Cemetery. He was a brave soldier and pilot who served his country in two major wars.