George Randall (RAF officer) facts for kids

George Ebben Randall was a brave British pilot during World War I. He was known as a "flying ace" because he shot down eleven enemy planes. He was born in London, England, on January 19, 1899. We do not know when he passed away.

George Randall's Early Life

George Ebben Randall was born in London, England. His birthday was January 19, 1899.

Military Service in World War I

George Randall joined the Royal Flying Corps in 1917. This was the air force of Britain at the time. He started as an observer, helping pilots spot enemies. Later, he trained to become a pilot himself. In May 1918, he became a Flying Officer.

Becoming a Flying Ace

Randall joined No. 20 Squadron RAF. He flew a type of plane called the Bristol F.2 Fighter. This plane was very good for fighting other aircraft. Between July and November 1918, he shot down eleven German fighter planes.

His last two victories happened just one day before the war ended. For his bravery, he received the Distinguished Flying Cross. One of his gunners, Sergeant Arthur Ernest Newland, helped him in these battles. George Randall destroyed seven enemy planes and forced four others to land out of control.

Distinguished Flying Cross Award

George Randall's award was officially announced in February 1919. The award said he was a "brave and resourceful" leader. He led 71 attack missions in just four months. On November 10, 1918, he faced many enemy planes. He shot down two himself, and his team chased the others away. He had also shot down four other enemy planes before this.

After the War

In August 1919, Randall was given a permanent job in the Royal Air Force (RAF). This meant he could stay in the air force for a long time. In July 1920, he received another award. It was a Bar to his Distinguished Flying Cross. He earned this for his actions in the Waziristan campaign. This was a military operation in a region called Waziristan.

George Randall left the Royal Air Force in November 1922.