John Wallwork (aviator) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Wilson Wallwork
|
|
|---|---|
| Born | 1898 Radcliffe, Lancashire, England |
| Died | 18 December 1922 (aged 23–24) |
| Buried |
St Mary, Radcliffe, Lancashire
(53°33′51″N 2°18′29″W / 53.56417°N 2.30806°W) |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army Royal Air Force |
| Years of service | 1917–1922 |
| Rank | Flying officer |
| Unit | No. 40 Squadron RFC/RAF |
| Battles/wars | World War I • Western Front |
| Awards | Military Cross |
Flying Officer John Wilson Wallwork MC (1898 – 18 December 1922) was a brave British pilot. He fought in World War I. He became a "flying ace," which means he was officially credited with shooting down five enemy aircraft.
Contents
Early Life and Military Service
John Wilson Wallwork was born in 1898 in Radcliffe, Lancashire, England. His parents were James and Marian Stuart Wallwork.
In April 1917, John joined the Royal Flying Corps. This was the air force of the British Army at the time. He quickly became a flying officer. In July, his rank was confirmed.
Flying in World War I
Wallwork was sent to No. 40 Squadron RFC. Here, he flew a special single-seat fighter plane called the S.E.5a. This plane was known for being fast and agile.
He achieved his first aerial victory on March 6, 1918. This meant he had successfully taken down an enemy aircraft. He quickly gained two more victories on March 9. His fourth victory came on March 24. On April 12, 1918, he achieved his fifth and final victory. This made him a "flying ace."
Awarded for Bravery
For his great courage, John Wallwork received the Military Cross. This important award was announced on July 23, 1918.
His award citation praised his actions. It said he took part in many dangerous attacks. He flew very low to bomb enemy troops and vehicles. He caused a lot of damage to the enemy. He also shot down several enemy planes. The citation noted his "magnificent example of courage and skill."
John Wallwork's Combat Record
This table shows the enemy planes John Wallwork shot down:
| No. | Date/Time | Aircraft/ Serial No. |
Opponent | Result | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 6 March 1918 @ 1620 |
S.E.5a (C1068) |
Albatros D.V | Destroyed | North-west of Lens |
| 2 | 9 March 1918 @ 1155 |
S.E.5a (C1068) |
Albatros D.V | Out of control | South of Pont-à-Vendin |
| 3 | 9 March 1918 @ 1615 |
S.E.5a (C1068) |
Albatros D.V | Out of control | Henin-Liétard |
| 4 | 24 March 1918 @ 1030 |
S.E.5a (C1068) |
Fokker Dr.I | Out of control | Croiselles |
| 5 | 12 April 1918 @ 1730 |
S.E.5a (D3510) |
Pfalz D.III | Out of control | Béthune |
Life After the War
After World War I ended, John Wallwork continued his service. In October 1919, he joined the Royal Air Force (RAF). He kept his rank as a flying officer.
In 1922, he took part in the annual RAF air display. This event was held at Hendon Aerodrome. He flew a special prototype plane called the Westland Weasel. He competed in an air race against many different types of aircraft. These ranged from small fighters like the Sopwith Pup to large bombers like the Vickers Vimy. Wallwork finished second in the race.
Sadly, John Wallwork died on December 18, 1922. He was delivering a plane called the Gloster Nightjar. The plane's engine failed, and it crashed in Brockworth, Gloucestershire. He was badly injured and passed away. John Wallwork was buried on December 22, 1922. His grave is in the churchyard of St Mary in Radcliffe.
