Everand Logo

Welcome to Everand!

  • History of War

    WILLIAM BARKER

    by WORDS TOM GARNER Mar 19, 2018 5 minutes

    “NOTWITHSTANDING THAT HE WAS NOW SEVERELY WOUNDED IN BOTH LEGS AND HIS LEFT ARM SHATTERED, [BARKER] DIVED ON THE NEAREST MACHINE AND SHOT IT DOWN IN FLAMES” William Barker’s VC citation

    The Royal Air Force was formed on 1 April 1918 as an amalgamation of the Royal Flying Corps (RFC) and Royal Naval Air Service (RNAS). It was a direct response to the rapid development of aircraft during World War I as a new, effective weapon in warfare. Pilots of the RFC and RNAS had become, through very hard lessons, extremely effective fighters in the sky against formidable enemy opposition. One of these airmen who epitomised the new fighting spirit of the RAF was William George ‘Billy’ Barker VC. He would become the most decorated serviceman in Canadian history.

    Barker was awarded the Victoria Cross towards the end of World War I, but he was officially recognised

    You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

    More from History of War

    History of War2 min read
    Siege of TOULON
    On 30 August, the French advance guard of 800 men occupies the village of Ollioules. The allies respond the next day with a sortie that costs the French eight killed, 30 prisoners, two cannon and two battalion colours. Having set up two batteries cal
    History of War1 min read
    Ride Into History On Warfare’s Most Iconic Fighting Machines
    Discover the WWI roots of the tank, get to grips with some of the most famous models ever to grind into battle, pick through the debris of the greatest armoured clash in history and find out how these weapons of war are evolving. ON SALE NOW Ordering
    History of War7 min read
    Aryan Racers the National Socialist Motor Corps
    Motor racing was one of the glamour sports of the 1930s and German drivers were at the forefront of the pinnacle of the sport, the Grand Prix. Rudolf Caracciola won a trio of driver’s championships in 1935, 1937 and 1938 while Bernd Rosemeyer cemente

    Related Books & Audiobooks