Ronnie Fokes facts for kids

Ronald Henry Fokes, known as Ronnie, was a brave pilot in the Royal Air Force during the Second World War. He was an amazing fighter pilot, meaning he was very skilled at flying planes and fighting enemy aircraft. He was officially credited with shooting down nine enemy planes. Ronnie was recognized for his courage with two important medals: the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Distinguished Flying Medal.

Ronnie's RAF Journey

Joining the Royal Air Force

Ronnie Fokes joined the Royal Air Force (RAF) in 1937, even before the Second World War began. He was part of the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. As the war started, he joined No. 92 Squadron RAF in January 1940. This was an important time for the RAF.

Becoming a Flying Ace

Ronnie quickly showed how skilled he was. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Medal in November 1940. This medal is given for bravery while flying. Later that same month, he became an officer, which is called being "commissioned."

In May 1941, Ronnie became an instructor, teaching other pilots how to fly. He worked at different training units, sharing his knowledge. In November 1941, he returned to active flying with No. 154 Squadron RAF. He later flew the powerful Hawker Typhoon aircraft with No. 56 Squadron RAF.

Leading a Squadron

Ronnie became a test pilot for Typhoon planes in August 1942. He helped make sure these planes were safe and ready for battle. In February 1943, he went back to flying combat missions with No. 193 Squadron RAF.

In July 1943, Ronnie took command of No. 257 Squadron RAF, flying the Hawker Typhoon. This was a big responsibility, leading other pilots into battle. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross in March 1944. This medal is given for great courage and leadership in air combat.

Ronnie was supposed to finish his time leading the squadron just before D-Day, the huge invasion of France. But he chose to stay with his squadron to help with the invasion. Sadly, on June 12, 1944, his aircraft was shot down over Caen, France, during a ground attack mission. He did not survive.

His Amazing Achievements

Ronnie Fokes was known as a "flying ace" because he shot down many enemy aircraft. He was officially credited with nine confirmed "kills" or victories. He also helped shoot down four other planes with his teammates. His bravery and skill helped protect Britain during the war.

Medals and Recognition

Ronnie Fokes received two very important medals for his bravery and skill as a pilot:

Distinguished Flying Medal (DFM)

He received the Distinguished Flying Medal on November 15, 1940. This medal recognized his courage and determination. For example, in October 1940, he bravely attacked a group of more than twenty enemy planes and successfully shot one down. He was praised for his "great courage and tenacity."

Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)

He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross on March 10, 1944. This medal recognized his leadership and how many missions he completed. He was a great leader who always attacked with skill and determination. By this time, he had shot down at least ten enemy aircraft.