Norman MacGregor facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Norman Miers MacGregor
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| Born | 29 May 1896 Chiswick, London, England |
| Died | 1981 (aged 84–85) Plymouth, Devon, England |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
Royal Navy Royal Air Force |
| Years of service | 1916–1919 1921 |
| Rank | Flight Lieutenant |
| Unit | No. 6 Squadron RNAS No. 10 Squadron RNAS/No. 210 Squadron RAF |
| Awards | Distinguished Service Cross |
Norman Miers MacGregor (born May 29, 1896 – died 1981) was a brave British pilot. He was known as a "flying ace" during World War I. This means he shot down at least five enemy aircraft. MacGregor achieved seven victories in the air. One of his most famous wins was against a top German pilot, Kurt Wolff. He was also awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his courage.
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Norman MacGregor: A World War I Flying Ace
Norman MacGregor joined the Royal Naval Air Service (RNAS) in 1916. He started as a temporary flight sub-lieutenant. By July 1916, he officially became a flight sub-lieutenant. The RNAS was part of the Royal Navy. It was responsible for flying planes and airships.
Early Victories in the Sky
MacGregor was sent to France to join No. 6 (Naval) Squadron. He flew a Sopwith Camel plane. On June 28, 1917, he got his first aerial victory. He and another pilot, F. C. Winter, destroyed a German DFW Type C plane.
Later, on August 17, MacGregor helped shoot down another enemy plane. This time it was an Aviatik Type C. He worked with Bruno De Roeper and R. E. Carroll. A few days later, on August 20, MacGregor and De Roeper drove down an Albatros D.V plane. On August 22, MacGregor destroyed an Albatros D.III by himself.
The Famous Fight Against Kurt Wolff
MacGregor then moved to No. 10 (Naval) Squadron. On September 15, 1917, he had a big dogfight. This was over a place called Moorslede. He was fighting planes from a German squadron called Jasta 11. During this fight, MacGregor shot down the first Fokker Dr.I plane of the war. The pilot of that plane was a famous German ace named Kurt Wolff, who was killed. This was a very important victory.
MacGregor was promoted to flight lieutenant on October 2. On December 10, he and J. G. Clark destroyed another Albatros D.V plane.
Earning a Special Award
In February 1918, MacGregor received the Distinguished Service Cross. This award is given for bravery in battle. His award citation praised his skill and courage. It said he was a great leader. It also mentioned how he had destroyed several enemy planes.
From RNAS to RAF
On April 1, 1918, a big change happened. The Royal Naval Air Service (RNAS) joined with the Royal Flying Corps (RFC). Together, they formed the Royal Air Force (RAF). Because of this, No. 10 (Naval) Squadron became No. 210 Squadron RAF.
A few months later, on August 12, MacGregor achieved his seventh and final victory. He drove down another Albatros D.V plane.
End of Service
MacGregor left the RAF on January 10, 1919. He held the rank of captain. However, he returned to service for a short time in 1921. He served as a flight lieutenant from April 10 to June 5.
