Sidney Highwood
British World War I flying ace and balloon buster
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Captain Sidney William Highwood DFC* (30 December 1896–1975) was a British World War I flying ace and balloon buster credited with sixteen aerial victories.[1]
Royal Air Force
Sidney William Highwood | |
|---|---|
| Born | 30 December 1896 Marden, Kent, England |
| Died | 1975 (aged 78–79) Kent, England |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
Branch | British Army Royal Air Force |
Rank | Captain |
| Unit | Queen's Own (Royal West Kent Regiment) No. 84 Squadron RAF |
| Awards | Distinguished Flying Cross & Bar |
Biography
Highwood was born in Marden, Kent, to William and Sarah Highwood, of Hertsfield Farm.[2] He first served as a private in the Queen's Own (Royal West Kent Regiment).[1] In 1917, he transferred to the Royal Flying Corps, and on 11 October was commissioned as a temporary second lieutenant (on probation),[3] being confirmed in his rank on 22 March 1918.[4]
He was posted to No. 84 Squadron on 20 May 1918, flying the S.E.5a, between 8 August and 30 October he accounted for nine enemy observation balloons, five Fokker D.VII fighters, and two Rumpler reconnaissance aircraft, for which he was twice awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.[1]
On 9 October 1918, he was appointed a flight commander with the acting rank of captain,[5] but left the RAF after the end of the war, being transferred to the unemployed list on 2 March 1919.[6]
After the war, Highwood returned to the family business of growing fruit and vegetables, acquiring Sheerland Farm in Pluckley, Kent, in 1929.[2][7][8]
Honours and awards
- Distinguished Flying Cross
- Lieutenant Sidney William Highwood
- "An Officer of exceptional skill and courage who, since 8 August, has accounted for nine enemy aircraft, driving down five kite balloons in flames, destroying two enemy machines, and shooting down two others out of control".[9]
- Bar to the Distinguished Flying Cross
- Lieutenant (Acting Captain) Sidney William Highwood, DFC.
- "A courageous officer who has proved himself a skilled and bold fighter. Since 2 October he has destroyed three enemy machines and four kite balloons, and has in addition rendered valuable service in attacking enemy troops on the ground".[10]