Wilfred Ernest Young facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Wilfred Ernest Young
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|---|---|
| Born | 28 December 1891 Dorchester, Dorset, England |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army Royal Air Force |
| Years of service | 1915–1920 |
| Rank | Major |
| Unit | No. 19 Squadron RFC No. 74 Squadron RAF |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards | Distinguished Flying Cross |
Major Wilfred Ernest Young was a brave English pilot during World War I. He was known as a flying ace, which means he shot down at least five enemy aircraft. Wilfred Young achieved 11 confirmed victories in the air.
Contents
Early Life and Joining Up
Wilfred Ernest Young was born in Bournemouth, England, on December 28, 1891. He started his military career in the British Army in 1915. He joined the Dorsetshire Regiment as a second lieutenant. Later, in December 1915, he moved to No. 6 Squadron of the Royal Flying Corps.
Flying in World War I
First Time in Combat
In June 1916, Young joined the Royal Flying Corps as an aerial observer. This meant he flew in planes to watch enemy movements. He returned to England in August 1916.
In 1917, he became a temporary captain and a Flight Commander. He began flying combat missions as a pilot with 19 Squadron in June 1917. During June and July 1917, he achieved three victories. He even shared one victory with two other pilots. On July 22, 1917, he was hurt in battle. He didn't return to flying until March 1918.
Second Time in Combat
Young's second time fighting in the air was with 74 Squadron. He flew a Royal Aircraft Factory SE.5a plane. He flew alongside famous pilot Edward "Mick" Mannock. Young shared two victories with Mannock during this time.
His first victory with 74 Squadron, and his fourth overall, happened on April 12, 1918. He destroyed an enemy Albatros D.III plane in France. By July 9, 1918, he had achieved a total of 11 victories. He destroyed two Pfalz D.III planes by setting them on fire. He also destroyed seven other planes. Two of these were shared victories with Mannock and other pilots. Young also helped force two enemy spy planes down out of control.
Awards and Promotions
On July 2, 1918, Wilfred Young was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. This award is given for bravery while flying. The award was officially announced on August 3, 1918. Soon after, on August 4, 1918, Captain Young was promoted to temporary major. He was then put in charge of No. 1 Squadron.
After the War
After World War I ended, Wilfred Young left the military on April 1, 1920. He kept his honorary rank of lieutenant.
