Patrick Woods-Scawen facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Patrick Philip Woods-Scawen
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| Nickname(s) | "Woody" |
| Born | 29 June 1916 Karachi, British India |
| Died | 1 September 1940 (aged 24) Kenley, England |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 Royal Air Force |
| Years of service | 1937–1940 |
| Rank | Pilot Officer |
| Battles/wars | Battle of France, Battle of Britain |
| Awards | Distinguished Flying Cross |
| Relations | Anthony Woods-Scawen |
Patrick Philip "Woody" Woods-Scawen (born June 29, 1916 – died September 1, 1940) was a brave pilot in the Royal Air Force. He was an officer who flew during World War II. He became famous as one of "The Few" pilots. These pilots defended Britain during the Battle of Britain.
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Early Life of a Hero
Patrick Woods-Scawen was born on June 29, 1916. His birthplace was Karachi, which was part of India back then. His parents were Philip Neri and Kathleen Florence Woods-Scawen. When he was eight years old, in 1924, he moved to Farnborough, Hampshire, England. He lived there with his family and his younger brother, Tony. Patrick went to school at the Salesian College in Farnborough.
Joining the Royal Air Force
In October 1937, Patrick Woods-Scawen joined the Royal Air Force (RAF). This was the air force of the United Kingdom. He started his flight training in January 1938. By August, he joined No. 85 Squadron RAF. This squadron was based at RAF Debden.
Fighting in France
When World War II began, Patrick's squadron moved to France. He quickly showed his skills as a pilot. On May 10, 1940, he shot down an enemy plane. He also helped to destroy another one. The next day, he shared in destroying a Dornier Do 17 bomber. On May 17, he shot down a Messerschmitt Bf 109 fighter plane. Just two days later, on May 19, he destroyed three more enemy planes. He probably got a fourth one too!
His squadron returned to England on May 22. Soon after, on May 25, he was promoted to the rank of Flying Officer.
Awarded for Bravery
Patrick Woods-Scawen was given a special award. It was called the Distinguished Flying Cross. This award is for great bravery in air combat. He received it on June 25, 1940.
The award recognized his amazing courage. In May 1940, he shot down six enemy aircraft. He also helped destroy others. One time, he was greatly outnumbered by enemy planes. But he bravely attacked them without hesitation. He shot down two of them. His own plane was hit, and he was slightly hurt. But he managed to parachute to safety. He then rejoined his unit. His actions showed great courage and leadership.
Battle of Britain Hero
Patrick continued to fight bravely. On July 29, he damaged another enemy plane. His own aircraft was also hit by enemy fire. In August, the Battle of Britain was in full swing. He continued to score victories. On August 26, he probably destroyed a Bf 109. He also shared in destroying a Do 17. On August 28, he destroyed another Bf 109. He shot down a Messerschmitt Bf 110 on August 30. Then, on August 31, he destroyed three more Bf 109s!
A Sad Loss
On September 1, 1940, Patrick Woods-Scawen was in a dogfight. He was fighting against Bf 109s near Kenley, England. His plane was shot down. He tried to parachute out, but sadly, his parachute failed. He died that day. His body was found a few days later.
Tragically, his younger brother, Tony, also a pilot, died the very next day. Tony was serving with No. 43 Squadron RAF.
Patrick Woods-Scawen is buried in St Mary's churchyard. This churchyard is in Caterham on the Hill, Surrey, England. He is remembered as one of "The Few" who bravely defended Britain.
