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Billy Bishop Biography

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Billy Bishop

Birthdate:   08/02/1894
Website: http://www.billybishop.org/bishop.html
Category: Military

  • Born in Owen Sound, Ontario on Feb 8, 1894.
  • Educated at the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario.
  • Qualified as a pilot in December, 1916.
  • Joined the Royal Flying Corps.
  • Flew a Nieuport 17.
  • From March 25, 1917 to June 19, 1918, he destroyed over 25 enemy aircraft.
  • Participated in over 170 air battles.
  • In total given credit for 72 kills, third highest ace allied total.
  • In one battle he shot down 5 enemy aircraft in a space of 5 minutes.
  • In 1918 he was promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel and given command of 85th squadron.
  • Awarded the Military Cross, Distinguished Service Award and Victoria Cross.
  • Had a reputation as an accurate shooter but a lousy pilot.
  • Was instrumental in helping create the Royal Canadian Air Force.
  • Germans nicknamed him "Hell's Handmaiden."
  • William Avery Bishop died quietly in his sleep in 1956
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Last updated: 10-09-07      Hits: 12070