William Edward Green facts for kids

Lieutenant Colonel William Edward Green was a brave British soldier and pilot. He was known as a "flying ace" during World War I. This means he shot down at least five enemy aircraft. Green was special because he achieved nine victories while flying bomber planes. After World War I, he continued to serve in the Territorial Army. He sadly died in action in 1940 during World War II.

Early Life and Joining the Air Force

William Edward Green was born in Ipswich, England, on October 20, 1898. His parents were Henry Douglas and Caroline Green. When he was 18 years old, in June 1917, he joined the Royal Flying Corps. This was the air force of Britain at the time.

World War I Adventures

Green, often called "Bill," became a second lieutenant in August 1917. After his training, he joined 57 Squadron in September 1917. He achieved his first aerial victory on January 6, 1918. By July 1918, he was promoted to temporary captain. This promotion often meant he would lead a group of planes as a Flight Commander.

Facing Storms and Enemy Planes

On July 20, 1918, Green was leading a bombing mission. The weather turned very bad with heavy rain. They also faced enemy Pfalz D.III scout planes. Green later wrote about how the storm blinded everyone. His group got separated, and some planes were lost. He was very sad about losing his fellow pilots.

A Close Call and Final Victories

On August 29, 1918, Green scored his eighth victory. However, his own plane was badly hit by a Fokker biplane. Luckily, both he and his observer were safe. He achieved his ninth and final victory on September 19, 1918. He earned these victories while flying his Airco DH.4 bomber.

Distinguished Flying Cross

Green was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross after World War I ended. This award recognized his bravery and skill. The official statement praised him as a "skilful, courageous pilot and a brilliant leader." It also said he was "conspicuous for his sound judgment" and "never failed to carry out any task."

After World War I

After the war, in February 1920, Green left the Royal Air Force. He then joined the British Territorial Force, which was a part-time army. He continued to serve and rise through the ranks.

Promotions and Final Service

In April 1921, he became a temporary captain in the Northamptonshire Regiment. He later left for a short time but returned to duty. By November 1928, he was promoted to major. Six years later, in November 1934, he became a lieutenant colonel.

By June 1938, Green was still a lieutenant colonel. In November 1938, he was promoted to colonel of his battalion.

Death in World War II

William Edward Green died on May 23, 1940. This was during the early days of World War II, just before the famous Dunkirk evacuation. His battalion was retreating across Flanders, Belgium, during fierce fighting. He is buried at White House Cemetery in Belgium. His uniform, medals, and sword are now kept at the Norris Museum in St. Ives.