James Latta (RAF officer) facts for kids

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James Douglas Latta (born May 13, 1897 – died 1974) was a brave British pilot during the First World War. He was known as a flying ace, which means he shot down at least five enemy aircraft. He earned the Military Cross for his courage.

Early Life and Family Background

James Latta was born in Hendon, England. His father, James Gilmore Latta, was an engineer. He worked for several companies before becoming a director of the Scottish Stamping & Engineering Company.

James Latta went to school at University College School in London.

Joining the War Effort

When the First World War started in 1914, James and his older brother, John, both joined the London Scottish Regiment. Soon after, they both moved to the Royal Flying Corps (RFC). The RFC was the air force of the British Army at that time.

James became a second lieutenant in the RFC in February 1915. He earned his pilot's license in November of the same year. He learned to fly a Maurice Farman biplane at a military school. In February 1916, he officially became a flying officer.

Flying as a Fighter Pilot

Latta was sent to No. 1 Squadron as a fighter pilot. He flew a Nieuport aircraft. He achieved his first victory on June 1, 1916, by destroying an enemy plane.

His next two victories were special. On June 25 and 26, he shot down an enemy observation balloon each day. Pilots who did this were called "balloon busters." This brave act earned him the Military Cross, a special award for bravery.

His award citation said:

Second Lieutenant James Douglas Latta, RFC, Special Reserve.

For conspicuous gallantry and skill. On two occasions he attacked enemy kite balloons, and each time brought down the kite in flames. He has often driven off enemy aircraft, and his own machine has been badly hit.

In July 1916, Latta became a lieutenant. He then moved to No. 60 Squadron. There, he forced two more enemy aircraft to land out of control in August and September. On October 4, Latta was promoted to captain and became a flight commander.

He was given a break from fighting in November. In May 1917, he joined No. 66 Squadron, flying a Sopwith Pup. Sadly, he was shot down and injured on June 8. After this, he did not fly in combat again. He left the Royal Air Force (RAF), which the RFC became, in February 1919.

Life After the War

After the war, James Latta returned home and started a career in engineering. But he still loved aviation.

In October 1925, he became the commander of No. 602 (City of Glasgow) (Bomber) Squadron. This was part of the Auxiliary Air Force, a volunteer air force. He held the rank of squadron leader.

In 1934, Latta became the chairman and managing director of the Scottish Stamping and Engineering Co. Ltd. This company made metal parts for cars, aircraft, and ships. During the Second World War, the company focused on making parts for aircraft. In 1939, Latta also helped start a new company called Scottish Aircraft Components Ltd.

The Scottish Stamping company was later bought by another company called GKN in 1953. James Latta passed away in Lancashire in 1974.