Owen Baldwin
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Owen Morgan Baldwin | |
|---|---|
| Born | 21 February 1893 Twyford, Berkshire, England |
| Died | 12 January 1942 (aged 48) Berkshire, England |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Branch | Royal Air Force |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit | No. 73 Squadron RAF |
| Conflicts | World War I World War II |
| Awards | Distinguished Flying Cross and Bar Legion d'Honneur (France)[1] Croix de Guerre with palm (France)[2] |
| Other work | Motorcycle racer |
Captain Owen Morgan Baldwin DFC* (21 February 1893 – 12 January 1942) was a British World War I flying ace credited with 16 aerial victories.[3] Post-war he was a successful professional motorcycle racer, and for a time holder of the official motorcycle land-speed record.[4]
Baldwin was a mechanical engineer in civilian life. He joined No. 73 Squadron RAF, which was tasked with ground support missions, and became a flight leader as well as the squadron's leading ace.[5] His most notable day in action was 15 September 1918, when he scored five victories by destroying two German Fokker D.VIIs and an observation plane, and driving down two more D.VIIs out of control. His victory roll is notable for having only three "soft" victories scored by driving an enemy down instead of destroying him.[3]
Baldwin was confirmed in rank as a Flying Officer, effective 7 March 1925.[6] He was also in service during World War II; he was commissioned a Flying Officer in the RAF Reserve on 12 December 1939.[7]
Honours and awards
- Distinguished Flying Cross
- Lieutenant Owen Morgan Baldwin.
- A gallant and skilful pilot who has on many occasions attacked troops and transport at low altitudes. Recently he encountered twelve enemy aeroplanes, two of which he crashed. He has, in addition, accounted for five other machines, showing at all times fearlessness and resource.[8]
- Bar to the Distinguished Flying Cross
- Lieutenant (Acting-Captain) Owen Morgan Baldwin, DFC.
- A gallant and determined officer, conspicuous for his skill and daring in attack. Since he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross he has destroyed six enemy aircraft and driven down two out of control, accounting for four in one day. In all he has to his credit thirteen machines destroyed and three driven down out of control.[9]
