William Miller (RAF officer) facts for kids

William Miller (born May 12, 1892 – died April 12, 1962) was a brave British pilot. He was known as a flying ace during the First World War. This means he shot down at least five enemy aircraft. Miller achieved six aerial victories in total.

After the war, he worked in education for the Royal Air Force. When the Second World War began, he returned to serve his country. He eventually reached the rank of Squadron Leader.

Who Was William Miller?

William Miller was born in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, on May 12, 1892. He studied at Durham University. When the First World War started, he joined the British Army.

He first served as a second lieutenant in the Northumberland Fusiliers. This was an infantry regiment. In 1915, he moved to France to serve on the Western Front. He was promoted to lieutenant in 1917. He also became an acting captain, leading a company of soldiers.

Becoming a Pilot in World War I

In 1918, Miller joined the Royal Flying Corps. This was the air force of the British Army at the time. He became an observer officer. Observers helped pilots by spotting enemy positions and directing attacks.

On April 4, 1918, he joined No. 18 Squadron RAF. This was just after the Royal Air Force (RAF) was formed. He flew in an Airco DH.4 plane. This was a two-seater bomber.

Miller's First Air Victories

Miller achieved his first air victories with Captain David A. Stewart. On May 30, 1918, they shot down two enemy Fokker D.VII planes. These were German fighter planes.

After this, he flew with Captain George Darvill. Together, they shot down four more Fokker D.VIIs. These victories happened on July 8, July 28, and two on September 4, 1918. Miller was injured in battle on September 6, 1918.

Awards and Leaving Service

For his bravery, William Miller was given the Distinguished Flying Cross on January 1, 1919. This award is given for "an act or acts of exemplary gallantry during active operations against the enemy in the air."

He left the RAF in 1921. He had been wounded during the war.

Life Between and After the Wars

In the years between the First and Second World Wars, Miller worked as an Education Officer. He was part of the Royal Air Force Educational Service. He taught in places like Iraq and the Far East.

When the Second World War began in 1939, Miller returned to serve. He joined the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. He was a flight lieutenant at first. By 1941, he was promoted to squadron leader. He served in Britain, Egypt, and South Africa.

Miller left the military for good on June 3, 1946. He kept his rank of squadron leader. He passed away on April 12, 1962.