Horace Percy Lale facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Horace Percy Lale
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| Born | 8 April 1886 Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, England |
| Died | 5 April 1955 (aged 68) Swindon, Wiltshire, England |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army Royal Air Force |
| Years of service | 1916-1941 |
| Rank | Group Captain |
| Battles/wars | First World War Waziristan campaign (1919–20) Second World War |
| Awards | Distinguished Service Order Distinguished Flying Cross with Bar Mention in Dispatches |
Group Captain Horace Percy Lale DSO, DFC & Bar (born April 8, 1886 – died April 5, 1955) was a brave officer in the Royal Air Force. This is the part of the United Kingdom's military that flies planes. He was a British "flying ace" during World War I. A flying ace is a pilot who shot down many enemy planes. Horace Lale achieved an amazing 23 victories in the air!
Contents
Horace Percy Lale: A Brave Pilot
Horace Percy Lale joined the military during a very important time in history. He became a key figure in the early days of air combat. His skills as a pilot helped his country during two major world wars.
Starting His Flying Career
Horace Lale began his military journey on September 26, 1916. He joined the Royal Flying Corps, which was the United Kingdom's air force before it became the Royal Air Force. He started as a temporary second lieutenant, a junior officer rank.
Becoming a Flight Commander
By April 3, 1917, Lale was appointed a flying officer. This meant he was officially a pilot. Just under a year later, on February 10, 1918, he became a flight commander. This role gave him temporary rank of captain. He was in charge of a group of planes and pilots. His bravery was recognized in March 1918 when he was "mentioned in despatches." This is a special mention for doing something brave or important in battle.
Life After World War I
Horace Lale continued his service in the Royal Air Force even after World War I ended. He received a permanent position as a flying officer on August 1, 1919. This showed that the military valued his skills and dedication.
Service in Waziristan
Lale showed great courage again during the 1919-1920 Waziristan campaign. This was a military operation in a mountainous region. For his excellent service there, he received an extra award. He was given a "bar" to his Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) in July 1920. A bar means you've earned the same medal again for more brave actions.
Climbing the Ranks
Over the years, Horace Lale continued to advance in his career. He was promoted several times:
- On January 1, 1921, he became a flight lieutenant.
- On January 1, 1924, he was promoted to squadron leader.
- On January 1, 1930, he became a wing commander.
- Finally, on January 1, 1936, he reached the high rank of group captain.
Serving in World War II and Retirement
Horace Lale was still serving when World War II began. He continued to contribute his experience and leadership. He retired from the Royal Air Force on April 8, 1941. This marked the end of a long and distinguished military career. He passed away on April 5, 1955.
