RMC cadet Forde Leathley MC

[BottsGreys]

I thought this might be of interest to someone.

A June 1915 group photo of Royal Military College cadets I am researching (please see other threads under Soldiers) contains Irishman Forde Leathley. He was born 17 February 1896 at Trillick, Dunboyne. Following a stint as 2nd Lieutenant and Lieutenant in the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, Leathley served as an observer/rear gunner in the 57th Squadron, RFC. From 30 April 1917 through 20 August 1917, he scored 8 victories and became an observer ace. The citation for his Military Cross (London Gazette 9 January, 1918)

reads:

"For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in making photographic reconnaissances and in fighting enemy aircraft. Since April he has taken part in numerous combats, during which seven hostile machines have been driven down and destroyed either by him or his Pilot, and although attacked by superior numbers of the enemy, his skill and offensive spirit have enabled him to carry out photographic reconnaissances."

This link will show you a breakdown of his victories:

http://www.theaerodrome.com/aces/ireland/leathley.html

Chris

Below: Forde Leathley, D Company, Royal Military College, June 1915