Harry Robinson (RAF officer) facts for kids

Flight Lieutenant Harry Noel Cornforth Robinson (born December 25, 1898 – died June 2, 1926) was a brave British pilot. He fought in World War I and was known as a "flying ace." This means he was officially credited with shooting down or helping to shoot down 10 enemy aircraft.

He earned two important awards during the war: the Military Cross and the French Croix de guerre. After the war, he continued to serve in the Royal Air Force. He later received the Distinguished Flying Cross for his bravery while serving in Iraq.

World War I Heroics

Harry Robinson joined the Royal Flying Corps on May 10, 1917. This was the air force of Britain during World War I. He quickly became a flying officer.

He was sent to No. 46 Squadron. At first, he flew a plane called the Sopwith Pup. Later, his squadron received the faster and more famous Sopwith Camel in November 1917.

Harry got his first aerial victory on December 28, 1917. He helped capture a German reconnaissance plane. On March 11, 1918, he forced an Albatros D.V fighter plane to go out of control. Between March 21 and 24, he achieved six more victories.

On March 28, 1918, Harry was promoted to acting captain and became a flight commander. He then moved to No. 70 Squadron. There, he gained two more victories in April and May. This brought his total to 10 aerial victories.

He was awarded the Military Cross on May 3, 1918, for his outstanding bravery. The award mentioned a time when he was on patrol. His plane had engine trouble, forcing him to turn back. On his way, he saw seven enemy planes attacking two British planes. Even with his own plane having issues, he immediately dived to help. He drove one enemy plane away. Then, both of his guns jammed. Even though his guns weren't working and he was low on fuel, he kept diving at the enemy. He bravely chased them away, showing great courage and quick thinking.

Life After the War

Harry Robinson stayed in the Royal Air Force (RAF) after World War I ended. On October 24, 1919, he officially became a flying officer.

He later served in Iraq. There, he earned another important award, the Distinguished Flying Cross. This award was given to him on October 28, 1921. The citation said he was a "gallant and daring pilot." It especially noted his bravery when flying missions around Samawah and Nasiriyeh in Iraq. His strong dedication to duty was also highlighted.

On October 24, 1923, Harry was given a permanent position in the RAF as a flying officer. He was then promoted to flight lieutenant on January 1, 1925.

Sadly, Harry Robinson died on June 2, 1926. The local newspaper, the Hartlepool Mail, reported that he had been sick for seven months.

See also

• Aerial victory standards of World War I
• List of World War I aces credited with 10 victories
• Winged Victory