Rothesay Stuart Wortley facts for kids

Rothesay Nicholas Montagu Stuart Wortley (born January 9, 1892 – died December 29, 1926) was a brave British soldier and a skilled fighter pilot during World War I. He also became a journalist and writer. He was awarded the Military Cross for his bravery.

Early Life and Education

Nicholas Rothesay Montagu Stuart-Wortley was born on January 9, 1892. His birthplace was Highcliffe Castle in Hampshire, England. He was the only son of Major-General Edward James Montagu-Stuart-Wortley and his wife Violet.

Nicholas went to Eton College, a famous school. Later, he studied history at Oxford University. In 1912, he joined the British Army as a junior officer. He was part of the Hampshire Yeomanry, a special army unit.

Serving in World War I

Just one day after the United Kingdom declared war on Germany in 1914, Nicholas began his war service. He became an aide-de-camp, which means he helped his father, who was a high-ranking general.

Joining the Royal Flying Corps

In February 1917, Nicholas moved from the army to the Royal Flying Corps. This was the air force of Britain at the time. After finishing his flight training, he became a Flying Officer in June 1917. He was quickly promoted to captain.

He joined No. 22 Squadron RFC as a pilot. This squadron flew Bristol F.2 two-seater planes. These were fighter aircraft used to battle enemy planes.

Aerial Victories and Bravery

Nicholas quickly proved himself as a skilled pilot. He achieved his first air victories on September 6, 1917. He forced two German planes down. On September 22, 1917, he destroyed two more enemy fighters. He even captured another plane on October 17, 1917. His sixth and final victory happened on January 28, 1918, when he shot down a German fighter plane in flames.

Receiving the Military Cross

For his amazing bravery, Nicholas was given the Military Cross. This award is for great courage in battle. The official announcement praised his actions:

Captain Rothesay Nicholas Montagu-Stuart-Wortley showed outstanding bravery and dedication. On three different patrols, he attacked and shot down one enemy plane in flames. He also sent three other enemy planes out of control. He was a very brave and determined leader.

Leading a Squadron

In July 1918, Nicholas was promoted to the temporary rank of major. He became a Squadron Commander at No. 44 Training Depot Station. Later, he went back to France. There, he commanded No. 88 Squadron RAF until the war ended in November 1918.

After the war, in May 1919, he worked as a Staff Officer at the Air Ministry. He left military service in July 1919.

List of Aerial Victories

Nicholas was a successful fighter pilot. Here is a list of his confirmed victories in the air:

Life After the War

In 1919, Nicholas Stuart Wortley married Marie-Louise Martin. She was a Canadian opera singer known as Louise Edvina. After his military career, Nicholas became a journalist who wrote about aviation.

Sadly, he passed away in southern France on December 29, 1926. He was only 34 years old. His death was caused by diabetes.