Norman Mawle facts for kids

Norman William Reginald Mawle, also known as "Bill", was a brave British pilot during World War I. He was born on January 27, 1897, and passed away on December 28, 1971.

He was known as a "flying ace" because he shot down 12 enemy aircraft and balloons. After World War I, he continued to serve his country. He also played an important role in World War II, finally retiring in 1954.

Early Life and Beginnings

Norman William Reginald Mawle was born in a town called Banbury in England. This was on January 27, 1897.

In 1916, when he was 19 years old, Norman joined the army as a second lieutenant. This is a junior officer rank. By the end of 1917, he became a flying officer. This meant he would fly planes for the Royal Flying Corps, which was the air force at the time.

World War I Adventures

In May 1918, Norman Mawle joined No. 84 Squadron RAF as a pilot. He flew a type of plane called the Royal Aircraft Factory SE.5. At first, his plane wasn't very good. He didn't have much success until he got a new one.

Using his new plane, he achieved his first victory on July 17, 1918. He destroyed a German observation balloon. These balloons were used by the enemy to spot troop movements.

Just three days later, he shot down another balloon. He also destroyed a German Fokker D.VII plane. On July 24, he teamed up with another pilot, Captain John Ralston. Together, they destroyed another Fokker D.VII.

Norman continued to be very successful in the air. On July 29, 1918, he helped destroy a German reconnaissance plane. The next day, he forced a Fokker D.VII to crash. In the same fight, two other Fokker D.VIIs crashed into each other. These were also credited to Norman.

On August 4, he destroyed another enemy balloon. Three days later, he destroyed one Fokker D.VII and damaged another. The very next day, he burned a German balloon. This was his twelfth and final victory.

While attacking two German balloons on the ground, Norman was badly hurt. He was hit in the stomach and arm by enemy fire. Even though he was wounded, he managed to fly his plane back to base. After this, he could no longer fly in combat.

Receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross

For his bravery and skill, Norman Mawle received the Distinguished Flying Cross. This was a special award given to pilots for their courage. He received it on November 2, 1918.

The award recognized his amazing actions. He had destroyed nine enemy planes and four observation balloons. In one patrol, he faced fifteen enemy planes with only five of his own. He bravely attacked them and shot down three himself. He also attacked an anti-tank gun, making the horses run away and the gun fall into a ditch. Even when he was seriously wounded, he flew his plane safely back to his airfield.

Serving in World War II

Norman Mawle continued his service after World War I. In 1939, he was promoted to squadron leader. This is a higher rank in the air force. He was put in charge of No. 911 (County of Warwick) Balloon Squadron AAF.

During World War II, on September 1, 1941, he became a wing commander. This was another promotion. He was made the Commanding Officer of RAF Norton in Sheffield. This base was important for defending the cities of Sheffield and Rotherham with balloons. These balloons were used to stop enemy planes from flying low.

Norman Mawle retired from the Royal Auxiliary Air Force on February 10, 1954. He retired with the high rank of group captain.

Later Life and Honors

After his military career, Norman Mawle continued to serve his community. He became a magistrate, which is a type of judge. He was also the Chairman of the West Bromwich Savings Committee.

In 1962, he was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire. This is a special honor given to people who have done great things for their country.

Endnotes