Air Force Museum of Alberta

William Bishop

William Avery Bishop was one of Canada's most successful fighter pilot during the First World War.

William Bishop

William Avery Bishop was one of Canada's most successful fighter pilot during the First World War.

William Bishop

After an education at the Royal Military College in Ontario, William "Billy" Bishop enlisted in the 4th Battalion, Canadian Mounted Rifles in 1914. The next year he transferred to England's Royal Flying Corps and was posted to France as an air observer. During his career as a First World War pilot, Bishop downed numerous hostile aircraft and was honoured for his bravery, skill and determination.

In 1918, he brought down 25 enemy aircraft in only 12 days and destroyed 45 within a five month period. This brought his total to 72 victories for which he received the Croix de Guerre.

Born: 8 Feb 1894, Owen Sound, ON
Died: 11 Sept 1956
Awards: VC, CB, DSO, MC, DFC, ED

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