William Ernest Shields
Encyclopedia
William Ernest Shields DFC & Bar
(15 October 1892 - 1 August 1921) was a Canadian
First World War
flying ace
, officially credited with 24 victories.
A gallant officer who inspires others by his courage and dash. In six weeks he destroyed six enemy aircraft and drove down three others out of control. On one occasion he, single-handed, engaged three scouts, driving down two of them."
Bold in attack and skilful in manoeuvre, this officer is conspicuous for his success and daring in aerial combats. On 22 September, when on offensive patrol, he was attacked by fourteen Fokkers; he succeeded in shooting down one. On another occasion he was attacked by six scouts and destroyed one of these. In all, since 28 June, this officer has accounted for fourteen enemy aircraft."
Distinguished Flying Cross (United Kingdom)
The Distinguished Flying Cross is a military decoration awarded to personnel of the United Kingdom's Royal Air Force and other services, and formerly to officers of other Commonwealth countries, for "an act or acts of valour, courage or devotion to duty whilst flying in active operations against...
(15 October 1892 - 1 August 1921) was a Canadian
Canada
Canada is a North American country consisting of ten provinces and three territories. Located in the northern part of the continent, it extends from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and northward into the Arctic Ocean...
First World War
World War I
World War I , which was predominantly called the World War or the Great War from its occurrence until 1939, and the First World War or World War I thereafter, was a major war centred in Europe that began on 28 July 1914 and lasted until 11 November 1918...
flying ace
Flying ace
A flying ace or fighter ace is a military aviator credited with shooting down several enemy aircraft during aerial combat. The actual number of aerial victories required to officially qualify as an "ace" has varied, but is usually considered to be five or more...
, officially credited with 24 victories.
Distinguished Flying Cross
"Lieut. William Ernest Shields.A gallant officer who inspires others by his courage and dash. In six weeks he destroyed six enemy aircraft and drove down three others out of control. On one occasion he, single-handed, engaged three scouts, driving down two of them."
Distinguished Flying Cross - Bar
"Lt. (A./Capt.) William Ernest Shields, D.F.C. (FRANCE)Bold in attack and skilful in manoeuvre, this officer is conspicuous for his success and daring in aerial combats. On 22 September, when on offensive patrol, he was attacked by fourteen Fokkers; he succeeded in shooting down one. On another occasion he was attacked by six scouts and destroyed one of these. In all, since 28 June, this officer has accounted for fourteen enemy aircraft."