Roland Lee Knight facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Roland Anthony Lee Knight
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| Nickname(s) | Tony |
| Born | 1917 Fareham, England |
| Died | 27 September 1941 (aged 24) Dunkirk, France |
| Buried |
Dunkirk Town Cemetery
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 Royal Air Force |
| Years of service | 1936–1941 |
| Rank | Squadron Leader |
| Service number | 37772 |
| Commands held | No. 403 Squadron (1941) |
| Battles/wars | Second World War
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| Awards | Distinguished Flying Cross |
Roland Anthony Lee Knight, often called Tony, was a brave Royal Air Force (RAF) pilot. He was born in 1917 and sadly passed away in 1941 when he was only 24. During World War II, he became a "flying ace." This means he shot down at least five enemy aircraft. Roland Knight was officially credited with six "kills." He also received the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) for his courage.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Roland Anthony Lee Knight was born in 1917 in a town called Fareham, England. He went to school at Bedford Modern School. This is where he received his education before joining the military.
Joining the Royal Air Force
Roland Knight joined the Royal Air Force (RAF) in 1936. The RAF is the United Kingdom's air and space force. He quickly began his training to become a pilot.
Climbing the Ranks
On February 17, 1937, he became a pilot officer. This was his first officer rank in the RAF. He was promoted again on November 17, 1938, to flying officer. Later, on September 3, 1940, he became a flight lieutenant.
Awarded for Bravery
In 1941, Roland Knight received the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC). This is a very important award given for bravery in air combat. He earned it for his courage and leadership during flights over enemy territory.
The award recognized his daring actions. It also highlighted how he inspired other pilots in his flight. By this time, he had already shot down at least three enemy aircraft. He had also damaged several others.
Leading a Squadron
On August 21, 1941, Roland Knight was promoted to squadron leader. This was a big step up in his career. He was then made the leader of a brand new group called No. 403 Squadron. This squadron was based at RAF Hornchurch.
Combat Record and Final Mission
Squadron Leader Knight was a very successful pilot. He was officially credited with shooting down six enemy aircraft. He also likely shot down three more, and damaged three others. He even destroyed one aircraft on the ground.
Sadly, not long after becoming a squadron leader, he was shot down. This happened during a mission over Dunkirk, France, on September 27, 1941. He was only 24 years old.
