Godfrey Bremridge facts for kids

Godfrey Bremridge (born March 1, 1895 – died September 12, 1941) was a brave pilot during World War I. He was known as a 'flying ace' because he shot down five enemy aircraft. He later became a flight instructor during World War II.

Early Life

Growing Up

Godfrey Bremridge was born on March 1, 1895, in a small town called Winkleigh in Devon, England. His father, Henry Bremridge, was a vicar, which is a type of church leader. Sadly, Godfrey's mother, Dora Milne, passed away just four weeks after he was born. He had an older brother, James, who became an officer in the Royal Navy.

Military Career

Joining the Army

In 1914, Godfrey Bremridge joined the army and served in the Royal Army Service Corps in Egypt. This was at the start of World War I. Later, he returned to England and decided to join the Royal Flying Corps, which was the air force at the time.

Becoming a Pilot

On July 2, 1917, Godfrey became a temporary second lieutenant in the Royal Flying Corps. He was assigned to No. 65 Squadron, where he flew a famous plane called the Sopwith Camel. This plane was known for being very good in air battles.

Flying Ace

Between December 1917 and March 1918, Godfrey Bremridge became a "flying ace." This special title is given to pilots who shoot down five or more enemy aircraft. He managed to force three enemy planes to land and destroyed two others. He also helped other pilots with three more victories. On January 1, 1919, he was given the Air Force Cross, an award for bravery in the air.

Life After World War I

New Adventures

After World War I ended, Godfrey moved to Transvaal in South Africa. He started an orange farm there. He also started a family, having two daughters and a son named John Henry.

Returning to England

In the mid-1930s, Godfrey Bremridge moved back to England. On December 12, 1935, he joined the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. He became a Flying Officer. He also helped start a company called Weybridge Air Services Ltd., which aimed to carry passengers and goods by plane. Later, he became the manager of the sales department at Brooklands Aero Club and worked as a flying instructor.

World War II Instructor

When World War II began, Godfrey Bremridge continued to serve his country. He worked as a pilot instructor, teaching new pilots how to fly. This was a very important job, as many new pilots were needed for the war effort.

Personal Life and Death

A Sad End

Sadly, Godfrey Bremridge died in a flying accident on September 12, 1941. He was buried in the churchyard of St Peter & St Paul at Sywell, Northamptonshire, England. His brother, James, who was a Royal Navy officer, had also passed away earlier in 1926.