Thirst for revenge of our most decorated Great War pilot
To mark the centenary of the foundation of the RAF on April 1, the military historian LORD ASHCROFT recalls the bravery of Edward ‘Mick’ Mannock
control it.” On another occasion Mannock started crying uncontrollably, although he later dismissed it as just “a bit of nerves”.
On July 24, 1918 he told his friend Ira Jones by telephone: “I’ve caught up with [Billy] Bishop’s score now – 72 [including unofficial “kills”].”
Around 5am, two days later, Mannock, flying alongside Lieutenant Donald Inglis, made his final “kill” above French skies. He considered this to be his 73rd (which would have made him Britain’s highest-scoring fighter ace of the war) but his official confirmed tally was 61.
Disregarding his own strict rule Mannock then made a couple of low passes over the wreckage of his victim, leading the inexperienced Inglis into a storm of small-gun fire. As they zig-zagged away, Inglis noticed a small bluish flame on his major’s engine cowling and then the left wing of Mannock’s aircraft fell away and he plunged into a death spin. Mannock had died aged 31.
Exactly what happened to Mannock is a mystery. He was buried in an unmarked grave by a German soldier, who also returned Mannock’s identity discs, notebooks and personal effects to his family through the Red Cross.
His identity discs are displayed alongside his VC, which is now part of my gallantry medal collection. It may be that he jumped clear or he may even have fulfilled his pledge to shoot himself at the first sign of flames, falling dead from his machine.
By the time of his demise Mannock had been awarded his third DSO but this too, along with his earlier awards, was only “gazetted” after his death.
After the war it was decided that Mannock’s incredible and sustained courage had still not been fully recognised. After much lobbying, largely by those who had served with and under him, The London Gazette announced his VC on July 18, 1919, nearly a year after his death.
‘Never without his revolver, to finish off himself if necessary’
IT CONCLUDED: “This highly distinguished officer, during the whole of his career in the Royal Air Force, was an outstanding example of fearless courage, remarkable skill, devotion to duty and self-sacrifice, which has never been surpassed.”
Major “Mick” Mannock VC, DSO & two Bars, MC & Bar remains a true RAF legend and his courage, like that of his fellow airmen, must never be forgotten.
Lord Ashcroft KCMG PC is a businessman, philanthropist, author and pollster. He is the author of six books on bravery including Heroes Of The Skies (heroesoftheskies.com). For details about his VC collection visit lordashcroftmedals.com. For information on his work visit lordashcroft.com. Follow him on Twitter @LordAshcroft.