Herbert George Hegarty facts for kids

Captain Herbert George Hegarty (born October 31, 1885 – died 1953) was an Irish pilot. He was a brave "flying ace" during World War I. This means he shot down at least five enemy aircraft in air battles. Herbert Hegarty was officially credited with eight aerial victories.

Early Life and Learning Years

Herbert Hegarty was born in a place called Clonbur in County Galway, Ireland. He went to school at Portora Royal School in Enniskillen. After finishing school, he got a job at the Hongkong and Shanghai Bank. This bank was located in Hong Kong.

While working in Hong Kong, Herbert also joined a volunteer army group. It was called the Hong Kong Artillery and Rifle Volunteer Corps. He became a second lieutenant in this group in October 1911.

Herbert Hegarty's Role in World War I

In 1917, Herbert Hegarty left Hong Kong and traveled to England. He went through North America to get there. On June 8, he joined the Royal Flying Corps as a second lieutenant. This was the air force of Britain at the time.

From July to September, he trained with different squadrons. These were like special flying teams. He was confirmed in his rank on September 8.

Becoming a Flying Ace

In November 1917, Herbert Hegarty joined No. 60 Squadron RFC. This squadron was based in France. He flew a single-seat fighter plane called an S.E.5a. This plane was fast and good for air combat.

His first aerial victory happened on January 28, 1918. He forced an Albatros D.V fighter plane down over Kortemark. On February 4, he helped shoot down another Albatros D.V. This plane caught fire over Zonnebeke. He destroyed two more enemy planes in March.

On May 14, he destroyed an Albatros two-seater plane. This was his fifth victory. Reaching five victories made him a "flying ace."

Military Cross Award

On May 16, 1918, Herbert Hegarty helped destroy an LVG two-seater plane. He worked with an American ace pilot named Lieutenant John Griffith. Later that same day, he was suggested for a special award. This award was called the Military Cross.

The Military Cross is given for bravery during battle. His award was officially announced on September 13. The award said he showed "conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty." It also mentioned his six confirmed victories. It said he was a "bold and fearless pilot."

Later War Service

On June 13, Herbert Hegarty was made a flight commander. This was a temporary rank of captain. He achieved two more aerial victories on June 30 and July 1.

On July 15, 1918, he was sent back to England. He became an instructor at a fighting school. This school was located at RAF Freiston. He taught other pilots how to fly and fight. Herbert Hegarty left the Royal Air Force on February 6, 1919.

Herbert Hegarty's Air Combat Record

This table shows the eight enemy aircraft Herbert Hegarty shot down or helped to shoot down.