Tom Cecil Noel facts for kids

Lieutenant Tom Cecil Noel (born 12 December 1897 – died 22 August 1918) was a brave British officer during the First World War. He started as a soldier on the ground. Later, he became an air observer, helping pilots in the sky.

Tom Noel was famous for winning the Military Cross twice. This award is given for great bravery. He showed courage both on land and in the air. Working with his pilots, he helped to shoot down 24 enemy aircraft. This included 12 that were destroyed. He is known as a "non-pilot ace" because of his many victories.

Early Life and School

Tom Noel was born in Ashwell, Rutland, England. He was the oldest of three sons. His parents were Gerard Cecil Noel and Madeline Edith Clifton. Tom went to a famous school called Eton College.

Joining the Military

Tom Noel joined the army on his 17th birthday, 12 December 1914. He became a second lieutenant in the 3rd Battalion of the King's Own Scottish Borderers. He was officially confirmed in his rank in September 1915.

He served in France on the Western Front. This was a major battle area during the war.

First Military Cross Award

On 26 September 1917, Tom Noel earned his first Military Cross. This award was officially announced in January 1918. The announcement praised his bravery. It said he explored dangerous ground under heavy enemy fire. He then successfully marked out a position for his battalion. During the battle, he led his men with great skill. He was very brave and set a wonderful example for everyone.

Becoming an Air Observer

Later, Tom Noel joined the Royal Flying Corps. This was the air force before it became the Royal Air Force. He became an observer and gunner in No. 20 Squadron RFC. He flew in Bristol F.2B two-seater fighter planes.

He achieved his first aerial victory on 19 January. He helped shoot down an Albatros D.V enemy plane. He was officially made a flying officer (observer) in March 1918.

He then started flying with Captain Dennis Latimer. Together, they achieved 22 more victories. They were a very successful team.

His Final Flight

On 22 August 1918, Tom Noel was flying with Captain Latimer. Their plane was shot down by a German pilot named Willi Nebgen. Tom Noel was killed in action. Captain Latimer was captured.

Second Military Cross Award

Tom Noel was awarded a second Military Cross, called a "Bar," after he died. This was announced in September 1918. The award recognized his amazing courage. It said that in just four days, he and his pilot destroyed seven enemy planes. They also forced three others out of control. His bravery and skill were very important to his squadron.

Burial and Memorials

Tom Noel was first buried by the Germans. Later, his body was moved to the Perth (China Wall) Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery in Ypres, Belgium. This happened in October 1924.

He is remembered in several places in Rutland, England. There is a memorial to him in St Peter and St Paul's Church, Exton. He is also on war memorials in other churches and villages. There is also a special plaque for him at Eton College.

Memorial to Tom Cecil Noel in the Church of St Peter and St Paul, Exton, Rutland