John Daley (RAF officer) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Albert Edward Robertson Daley
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| Born | 5 February 1898 |
| Died | 8 July 1918 (aged 20) France
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| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
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Branch
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British Army Royal Air Force |
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Rank
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Lieutenant |
| Unit | British West Indies Regiment No. 13 Squadron RFC No. 24 Squadron RAF |
| Awards | Distinguished Flying Cross |
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Lieutenant John Albert Edward Robertson Daley DFC (born February 5, 1898 – died July 8, 1918) was a brave British pilot during World War I. He was known as a "flying ace" because he shot down six enemy aircraft during battles in the sky.
Contents
Early Life and Joining Up
John Daley was born in Kingston, Jamaica. His father, George E. Daley, lived in New Market. John went to school at the Potsdam School.
When he was 17, John decided to join the army. On January 19, 1916, he became a private in the 2nd Jamaica Battalion. This unit was part of the British West Indies Regiment. Soon after, on March 6, 1916, he was promoted to a temporary second lieutenant.
A Challenging Journey
On the same day he was promoted, John and many other soldiers began a long journey. They boarded a ship called the Verdala in Kingston. Their destination was England.
However, the journey was very difficult. Because of enemy submarines, the ship had to take a longer route. It sailed through Halifax, Nova Scotia, where it ran into a big snowstorm. The ship was not warm enough, and the soldiers did not have enough warm clothes. Many soldiers became very ill from the cold.
Becoming a Flying Ace
After his challenging journey, John Daley joined the Royal Flying Corps. This was the air force of the time. On April 6, 1917, he became a flying officer. He started as an observer in No. 13 Squadron.
Later, on December 27, 1917, he became a pilot. He joined No. 24 Squadron and flew a type of plane called an S.E.5a. This plane was fast and strong.
His Daring Achievements
Between March and July 1918, John Daley showed great skill in the air. He shot down five enemy airplanes. He also destroyed one enemy kite balloon. These balloons were used by the enemy to watch troop movements.
John was a very brave pilot. He often attacked enemy troops on the ground as well. Sadly, he was killed in action on July 8, 1918. This was only one week after his last victory in the sky.
A Special Award
John Albert Edward Robertson Daley was awarded a very important medal. It was called the Distinguished Flying Cross. This award is given for bravery while flying.
His award was officially announced about a month after he died. The announcement praised his courage. It said he had destroyed five enemy planes and two kite balloons. It also mentioned his skill and daring in attacking targets on the ground.
