William McKenzie Thomson
William McKenzie Thomson MC, DFC (15 September 1898 – 9 July 1987) was a Canadian First World War flying ace, officially credited with 26 victories while flying Bristol Fighters with 20 Squadron of the Royal Flying Corps and Royal Air Force.[2]
William Thomson | |
|---|---|
| Born | 15 September 1898 Lachine, Quebec |
| Died | 9 July 1987 (aged 88) |
| Allegiance | George V[1] |
| Service/ | Royal Flying Corps Royal Air Force |
| Unit | No. 20 Squadron RAF |
| Battles/wars | First World War |
| Awards | Military Cross Distinguished Flying Cross |
Text of citations
Military Cross
"T./Lt. William MacKenzie Thomson, R.A.F. For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty on offensive patrols. In five days he destroyed as many enemy machines. He showed fine determination to close with the enemy, and set a splendid example of enterprise and gallantry."
Distinguished Flying Cross
"Lieut. William McKenzie Thomson, M.C. This officer has destroyed thirteen enemy machines, invariably displaying courage, determination and skill. Disparity in numbers never daunts him. On a recent occasion, in company with eight other machines, his formation was attacked by twenty-five scouts; he shot one down. On another occasion his formation of ten machines engaged between twenty and thirty Fokkers; in the combat that ensued this officer shot down one out of the four that were destroyed."
References
Notes
- Deguid 1938, pp. 51–52
- Shores, Franks & Guest 1990, pp. 31, 363
References
- Deguid, A. Fortescue (1938). Official History of the Canadian Forces in the Great War (PDF). Vol. I: From the outbreak of war to the formation of the Canadian Corps: August 1914–September 1915. Ottawa: J. O. Patenaude. Retrieved 1 October 2022.
- Shores, Christopher; Franks, Norman; Guest, Russell (1990). Above the Trenches: A Complete Record of the Fighter Aces and Units of the British Empire Air Forces 1915–1920. London: Grub Street. ISBN 0-948817-19-4.