Leonard Rochford facts for kids

Leonard Henry Rochford (born 10 November 1896 – died 17 December 1986) was a brave British pilot during the First World War. He was known as a "flying ace" because he shot down 29 enemy aircraft! Later in his life, he also served in the Royal Air Force during the Second World War.

Flying High in World War I

Leonard Rochford was born in Enfield, England, on 10 November 1896. When the First World War started, he tried to join the Royal Naval Air Service (RNAS). He was too young at first, but he didn't give up! He learned to fly on his own and got his pilot's license in October 1915.

In early 1916, Leonard finally joined the Royal Navy as a pilot. He was sent to No. 3 Naval Squadron RNAS in January 1917. He started flying a Sopwith Pup plane. Between March and July 1917, he achieved his first three aerial victories. This means he helped take down three enemy aircraft. He was also promoted to flight lieutenant.

Becoming a Flying Ace

Later, Leonard's squadron received new planes called Sopwith Camels. These were famous fighter planes. In September, he shot down two more enemy planes, becoming an "ace." A flying ace is a pilot who has shot down five or more enemy aircraft.

Leonard continued to be very successful. He gained three more victories in January 1918 and six in March. This brought his total to fourteen victories! On 1 April 1918, the Royal Naval Air Service joined with the Royal Flying Corps to form the new Royal Air Force (RAF). Leonard's unit became No. 203 Squadron RAF.

He kept flying and fighting bravely. He achieved five more victories in May, two in June, and four in July. His last four victories happened between August and October 1918. In total, Leonard Rochford was credited with 29 aerial victories. This included 13 enemy planes destroyed and 16 forced down out of control.

Leonard Rochford's Victories

Here is a list of the enemy aircraft Leonard Rochford helped to take down during the First World War:

Service in World War II

After the First World War ended, Leonard Rochford left active military service in 1919. He was recognized for his "valuable services" during the war. He briefly returned for temporary duty in 1921.

As the threat of another war grew in 1939, Leonard rejoined the Royal Air Force. He was made a flight lieutenant on 1 September 1939, the very day Germany invaded Poland, starting the Second World War. He was promoted to squadron leader in March 1942. Leonard remained a reserve officer even after the war ended, finally leaving the service in 1954.

In 1987, Leonard Rochford appeared in a TV show called 'The Cavalry of the Clouds.' He shared his experiences as a pilot.

Family Life

Leonard Rochford was married to Elizabeth Maud Moffet. They had a son named James Donald Henry Rochford. James also served in the Royal Navy during the Second World War. After the war, he became a lawyer.