Oliver Stewart facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Oliver Stewart
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|---|---|
| Nickname(s) | Stewpot |
| Born | 26 November 1896 London, England |
| Died | 1976 |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
Aviation |
| Rank | Major |
| Unit | Middlesex Regiment, No. 22 Squadron RFC, No. 54 Squadron RFC |
| Awards | Military Cross, Air Force Cross |
| Other work | Aviation journalist and author |
Major Oliver Stewart was a brave pilot during World War I. He was known as a "flying ace" because he shot down five enemy planes! After the war, he became a famous writer and journalist who focused on airplanes and flying. He lived from 1896 to 1976.
Contents
Oliver Stewart's War Flights
Oliver Stewart joined the army in October 1914. He became a second lieutenant in the Middlesex Regiment. In 1915, he moved to the Royal Flying Corps, which was the air force at the time.
Flying with 54 Squadron
After a short time with 22 Squadron, Oliver joined 54 Squadron in 1917. Here, he flew a Sopwith Pup, which was a type of fighter plane. He quickly became a flight commander, leading other pilots. His friends gave him the nickname "Stewpot."
Between April and September 1917, Oliver Stewart achieved five aerial victories. This means he shot down five enemy aircraft. For his bravery, he received the Military Cross, a special award for courage in battle.
Leading the Experimental Unit
After his time flying in combat, Oliver returned to England. In June 1918, he was promoted to Major. He was put in charge of the Aeroplane and Armament Experimental Establishment. This was a place where new airplanes and weapons were tested. For his important work there, he was awarded the Air Force Cross.
Life After the War
Oliver Stewart left the military in 1921. He started a new career as a writer and journalist who specialized in aviation. He wrote many articles and books about airplanes and flying.
Aviation Journalism and Books
From 1939 to 1962, Oliver was the editor of Aeronautics magazine. This was a very important magazine for people interested in flying. He also wrote several books, including Aerobatics: A Simple Explanation of Aerial Evolutions, which taught people about fancy flying moves. Another book was Of Flight and Flyers, and he even wrote his own life story called Words and Music of a Mechanical Man.
