Capt Arthur Gerald Knight DSO, MC, 29 Sqdn RFC.
Born in Bedford on 30 July 1895, Arthur emigrated to Canada and was educated at the Upper Canada College where he studied Applied Science between 1913 and 1915. A member of the College OTC, he was commissioned into the Royal Flying Corps on 20 November 1915 and arrived in France with 4 Sqdn in April 1916, transferring to 24 Sqdn on 30 May. He was awarded the Military Cross following his fifth ‘kill' on 14 November 1916.
Just two days later, he was promoted to temporary Captain and transferred to 29 Sqdn the same day where, on 11 December, he was to earn the Distinguished Service Order for his skill and courage in leading offensive patrols. On one occasion he led just four machines against eighteen Germans.
Arthur was shot down and killed on 20 December 1916 during combat behind the German lines near Douchy and now lies buried in Douchy-les-Ayette British Cemetery.
20 December 1916
Research by David O'Mara, Croonaert Research Services.
