James Bush (RFC officer) facts for kids

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Lieutenant James Cromwell Bush (1 March 1891 – 7 October 1917) was a brave British pilot during World War I. He was known as a "flying ace" because he shot down six enemy aircraft. He earned the Military Cross for his courage.

Early Life and Military Start

James Cromwell Bush was born in Salisbury, England, in 1891. He was the oldest son of Reverend Herbert Cromwell Bush. His grandfather was General Reynell Taylor. James went to Fritham and St. Edward's Schools. After school, he spent some time in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) and India.

When World War I began, James joined the army. On 22 September 1914, he became a temporary second lieutenant in the 5th (Service) Battalion, The Duke of Edinburgh's (Wiltshire Regiment).

Gallipoli Hero

In 1915, James was sent to Gallipoli, a major battle area. He was one of the few soldiers from his group to survive the fighting at Suvla Bay. For his bravery, he was mentioned in official reports by General Sir Ian Hamilton. He also received the Military Cross, a special award for courage in battle.

James had to return home in late 1915 because he was injured or sick. On 25 February 1916, he was chosen to be an aide-de-camp, which is like a personal assistant to a senior officer. He was sent to Egypt. Later, on 18 December 1916, he officially became a lieutenant in the Dorset Regiment.

Flying High: Becoming a Pilot

On 24 April 1917, James Bush joined the Royal Flying Corps. This was the air force branch of the British military at the time. He became a pilot in No. 22 Squadron. He flew a two-seater Bristol F.2 Fighter plane. These planes had two people: a pilot and an observer (who also acted as a gunner).

James became a "flying ace" by shooting down six enemy planes. His first two victories happened on 12 August 1917. He worked with another pilot, Carleton Clement. Together, they set one German Albatros D.V plane on fire and sent another spinning out of control.

He achieved four more victories. His last victory was on 2 October 1917. For three of his flights, his observer was Arch Whitehouse.

A Brave Pilot's End

Just five days after his last victory, on 7 October 1917, James Bush and his observer were shot down. They were attacked by a famous German pilot named Hans von Häbler. At first, James was reported as missing. Later, a message dropped from a German plane confirmed that he had died.

James Cromwell Bush is remembered on the War Memorial at Neuville-en-Ferrain Communal Cemetery in France.