On the 26th September 1897, Arthur Rhys-Davids was born in Forest Hill. Aged just 19, on the 28th August 1916, Arthur joined the Royal Flying Corps as a Second Lieutenant. After completing his training, Arthur was sent to France, arriving in early 1917. He flew the SE-5, a plane which was extremely popular amongst the Allied pilots for its manoeuvrability as well as its speed and easy to fly status.
Arthur's first combat flight took place on 7th May 1917, where he was unfortunate to be witness to flying ace Albert Ball being killed in action. By the end of the month, Arthur had five victories to his name, probably more determined to fight the enemy after the events he had witnessed. He was now classed as one of the few Flying Aces.
Within six months of being in France, Arthur was awarded the Military Cross and just a few short months later was awarded the Military Cross and Bar. He also agreed to be painted by William Orpen.
On the 23rd September 1917, Arthur was one of the few pilots that helped to shoot down German flying ace Werner Voss. Despite his huge success, on the 27th October 1917, Arthur went missing east of Roeselare. It took until 18th March 1918, for it to be declared that Arthur was killed in action, after being shot down by Karl Gallwitz.
Arthur had achieved so much during his short life and had known no fear, he was just doing what he could to help win the war. Because of his efforts, he was post humorously awarded the Distinguished Service Order, although unfortunately, he would never know it.
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