Laurence Henry Scott facts for kids

Captain Laurence Henry Scott MC was a brave British pilot who fought in World War I. He was born on March 9, 1896. We don't know when he passed away. Scott was known as a "flying ace" because he helped shoot down six enemy aircraft during the war. He was even given a special award called the Military Cross for his courage!

Joining the War Effort

Laurence Scott started his military journey as a regular soldier. He joined a group called the London Regiment in 1914. This was part of the British Army's Territorial Force. On February 26, 1915, he became a junior officer, known as a second lieutenant. He then joined the Middlesex Regiment.

Becoming a Flying Observer

In September 1916, Scott joined the Royal Flying Corps. This was the air force of Britain at the time. He became a flying officer, which meant he was an observer. Observers often helped the pilot by looking for enemy forces or by using a machine gun.

Flying Ace in Action

Scott was sent to No. 20 Squadron RFC. Here, he flew in a special plane called an F.E.2b. He worked with Captain George Reid. Scott was the observer and gunner in their aircraft.

Aerial Victories

Between July and October 1916, Scott and Reid were very successful. They worked together to take down enemy planes. They destroyed four enemy aircraft. They also forced two other enemy planes to land out of control. This made Scott a "flying ace." A flying ace is a pilot or observer who has helped destroy five or more enemy aircraft.

Awarded the Military Cross

Scott was promoted to lieutenant in November 1916. Soon after, he received the Military Cross. This is a very important award for bravery. His award was announced on November 24, 1916.

The official statement praised his bravery. It said he and his pilot chased an enemy plane. They flew six miles into enemy land and shot it down. The statement also noted that he had done "very fine work" many times before.

After the War

In July 1917, Scott became an assistant instructor. He taught others how to use guns in the air. By January 1918, he was a main instructor. He was given the temporary rank of captain.

After World War I ended, Scott left the Royal Air Force in April 1919. He went back to serve in the Middlesex Regiment for a short time. He officially left the military in September 1921.