Laurence Minot (RFC officer) facts for kids

Captain Laurence Minôt MC (born July 21, 1896 – died July 28, 1917) was a brave British pilot during World War I. He was known as a "flying ace" because he shot down six enemy planes. He sadly died in battle just after his 21st birthday.

About Laurence Minôt

Early Life and School

Laurence Minôt was born in Wandsworth, England. He was the only son of John and Ada Minôt. He went to Dulwich College, a school where he was a top student. He was a "school prefect," meaning he helped lead other students. He also played rugby union for his school's main team.

Becoming a Pilot

Laurence started learning to fly in January 1915 during his school holidays. He left school in April and earned his pilot's license on July 8.

On October 28, 1915, he joined the Royal Flying Corps (RFC) as a second lieutenant. The RFC was the air force of Britain at the time. He was sent to France and joined No. 16 Squadron RFC. There, he flew different types of planes on patrols and scouting missions. On July 28, 1916, he was promoted to captain and became a "flight commander," leading a group of planes.

Flying Ace Achievements

In 1917, Laurence moved to No. 57 Squadron RFC. He flew the Airco DH.4, a two-seater bomber plane. With his observer and gunner, Lieutenant Arthur Britton, Laurence achieved his first aerial victories on July 3, 1917. They fought two German Albatros D.V planes over Zonnebeke. One plane was forced down, and the other was shot down in flames.

On July 7, with a different observer, he forced another Albatros D.V down near Ypres. On July 27, with Lieutenant Britton back as his observer, they forced down three more Albatros D.Vs. For these brave actions, Laurence was awarded the Military Cross. Lieutenant Britton received the French Croix de guerre.

Final Mission and Legacy

On July 28, 1917, the day after his last victories, Laurence took off on a mission. His usual observer, Britton, was injured, so Second Lieutenant Sidney John Leete flew with him. Their squadron was attacked by German planes from Jasta 6, a famous unit known as von Richthofen's "Flying Circus".

During the intense air battle, called a "dogfight," Laurence's plane was last seen chasing an enemy aircraft. Later, it was confirmed that Laurence and Leete had been shot down and killed. They are buried together in the Harelbeke New British Cemetery in Belgium.

Laurence Minôt's Military Cross award was officially announced after his death on April 19, 1918. His award citation praised his "conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty." It mentioned how he led his formation against many enemy planes and bravely shot down several.

The Laurence Minôt Memorial Trophy

A Special Award

In May 1926, a special award was created in Laurence Minôt's memory. It was called the Laurence Minôt Memorial Trophy. This trophy, shaped like a large silver eagle, was given each year to the best bombing aircraft crew. Laurence's father secretly donated the trophy to honor his only son.

Trophy History

The trophy was first awarded in a competition for bomber squadrons in Britain. Wing Commander Charles Portal won the trophy in 1927 and 1928. In 1928, he dropped bombs from 10,000 feet (about 3 kilometers) and hit within 30-40 yards (about 27-36 meters) of the target!

From 1930 to 1936, the competition was only for night bombing squadrons. After a break, it was brought back in 1949. Then, it was given to the Bomber Command squadron that showed the best overall training excellence. The awards stopped in the late 1950s.

Trophy's Current Home

In 2011, the trophy was found at the home of the Chief of the Air Staff. It was then moved to the Officer's Mess of No. 57 Squadron at RAF Wyton. In August 2013, No. 57 Squadron also received Captain Minôt's actual Military Cross medal from one of his last remaining family members.