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William Barker

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description William Barker Overview

William Barker was a Canadian fighter pilot who became one of the most decorated servicemen in the history of the British Empire. Serving in World War I, he was officially credited with 50 aerial victories. He was awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions during a single dogfight in October 1918, where he attacked enemy aircraft despite being severely wounded and outnumbered. Following the war, Barker played a role in the early development of the Royal Canadian Air Force alongside his friend Billy Bishop before dying in a plane crash in 1930.

help William Barker FAQ

How many victories was William Barker credited with?

William Barker was officially credited with 50 aerial victories during World War I. He also became one of the most decorated servicemen in the history of the British Empire.

Why did William Barker receive the Victoria Cross?

Barker received the Victoria Cross for a solo fight on October 27, 1918, in which he attacked a much larger German formation despite being wounded and outnumbered. The action took place near Selvigny during the final weeks of the war.

Which aircraft did Barker fly during his Victoria Cross action?

Barker was flying a Sopwith Snipe during the famous October 1918 engagement. The Snipe was a single-seat fighter developed for the Royal Air Force near the end of World War I.

Was William Barker Canadian?

Yes. Barker was a Canadian pilot who served with the Royal Flying Corps and later the Royal Air Force during World War I, earning 50 credited victories and the Victoria Cross.