Orlando Bridgeman (RAF officer) facts for kids

Second Lieutenant Orlando Clive Bridgeman (born November 29, 1898 – died December 21, 1931) was a brave pilot during World War I. He was known as a "flying ace" because he shot down five enemy aircraft.

Early Life and Military Start

Orlando Bridgeman was born in Donington, England. His father, Francis Bridgeman, was a high-ranking officer in the army. Orlando went to a famous school called Harrow School.

Soon after his 18th birthday in 1917, Orlando decided to join the British Army. He became a cadet, which is like a trainee officer. In March of that year, he was made a temporary second lieutenant. He then joined the Royal Flying Corps, which was the air force at the time.

Joining the Royal Flying Corps

Orlando was sent to No. 70 Squadron RFC. Here, he learned to fly a type of plane called the Sopwith Camel. This was a famous fighter plane used during the war.

On August 25, 1917, Orlando was hurt when his plane was shot by an enemy pilot named Hermann Göring. Göring was part of a German flying group.

A World War I Flying Ace

Orlando returned to flying in March 1918. He was then sent to No. 80 Squadron. This is where he became a true flying ace.

First Victories in the Sky

On March 16, Orlando achieved his first victory. He forced an enemy Albatros D.V plane to crash near Le Catelet. Just twelve days later, he was promoted to acting-captain. This meant he was in charge of a group of planes called "B Flight."

His second victory happened on April 11. He managed to set another Albatros D.V plane on fire over Bois du Riez.

Facing the "Flying Circus"

On May 10, Orlando was leading his flight on patrol. They were suddenly attacked by many enemy planes. These planes belonged to the famous "Flying Circus" led by Manfred von Richthofen, also known as the Red Baron.

Orlando bravely shot down two enemy Fokker Dr.I planes during this fight. His team also shot down two more. However, the battle was very tough. Three of his own men were killed, one was captured, and two more had to crash-land.

Earning the Military Cross

Because of his bravery and skill in that battle, Orlando Bridgeman was given the Military Cross. This was a very important award for his actions. It was the only Military Cross given to a member of No. 80 Squadron.

On June 27, Orlando achieved his fifth and final victory. He forced a Fokker D.VII plane down over Neuve-Chapelle. After this, he became a flying instructor, teaching new pilots. He left the military on April 11, 1919, when the war was over.

Life After the War

After the war, Orlando Bridgeman went to Trinity College, Cambridge. He earned a Master of Arts degree. In 1924, he married Nancye Newzam Nicholson in London.

Sadly, Orlando died young, at the age of 33. He passed away in London on December 21, 1931, from a serious infection. There is a special plaque in St Bartholomew's Church in Tong, Shropshire, to remember him.

Awards and Recognition

Orlando Clive Bridgeman was awarded the Military Cross for his amazing bravery and dedication. He showed great leadership when his patrol was attacked by many enemy planes. He destroyed two planes himself and helped his team crash two others. His smart tactics and courage saved his patrol from a bad situation. He was also praised for attacking ground targets from low heights, which was very dangerous. His example and leadership were very important to his squadron.