James Martin Child facts for kids

James Martin Child (born October 20, 1893 – died August 23, 1918) was a brave pilot during World War I. He was known as a "flying ace" because he shot down eight enemy planes. Even though he lived in Canada, he went back to England to join the war effort. He later joined the Royal Flying Corps, which was the air force at the time. Sadly, he died while trying to save another pilot from a plane crash.

Early Life and Joining the War

James Martin Child was born in Leytonstone, England, on October 20, 1893. When he was young, he moved to Canada. There, he worked in a bank and also searched for minerals as a prospector. He was still living in Canada when World War I began.

Child was part of the Canadian militia. He really wanted to help his home country. He paid for his own trip back to England to join the fight. Once in England, he joined the Durham Light Infantry. Later, he moved to the Manchester Regiment. In 1916, he was sent to the Royal Flying Corps. This was the air force branch of the British military.

Becoming a Pilot and Flying Ace

James Child first served in No. 4 Squadron. In July 1916, he moved to No. 19 Squadron. Here, he flew a Royal Aircraft Factory B.E.12 plane. He scored his first victory on April 23, 1917. This means he successfully shot down an enemy aircraft.

On May 12, 1917, James Child was made a temporary captain. This was a big step up for him. He became a Flight Commander, leading other pilots. He was also mentioned in official reports for his bravery. He achieved three more victories between April and June 1917. During this time, he flew Spad VII planes. He was then taken out of combat for a while.

In September 1917, the King of Belgium honored him. He was made a Knight in the Order of Leopold II. This was a special award for his service.

Return to Combat and More Victories

Child returned to flying in combat as a flight commander. He joined No. 84 Squadron. He added five more victories to his record in October and November 1917. He flew a Royal Aircraft Factory SE.5a plane during these missions. After this, he was again taken out of combat. He went back to England in February 1918. His new job was to train other pilots.

Awards for Bravery

On March 15, 1918, James Child received the Belgian War Cross. This was another award for his courage.

He also received the Military Cross on July 5, 1918. This is a very important British award for bravery. The official report said:

• He showed great courage and dedication.
• He led a patrol and faced four enemy planes, destroying one.
• He attacked two enemy planes over enemy lines. He disabled one and skillfully made it land in friendly territory. The enemy pilot and observer were captured.
• He attacked five enemy planes on another mission, destroying one.
• He always showed excellent judgment and determination.

A Heroic End

James Martin Child died while saving other officers. A plane had crashed in Drakemyre, Scotland. He bravely went to help them from the wreckage. His body was brought back to London. He was buried in Plot C.R. 7284 of Chingford Mount Cemetery. His brother, Jack Escott Child, and his sister were later buried in the same grave.