COMBATS IN THE AIR
-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-
No. 1 RFC
Date: 01/05/1916
Time: 05:58
Type of Aeroplane: Nieuport 11
Locality:NE of Ypres
Pilot: 2Lt.Geoffrey Hawks
Duty: Balloon Defense
Height: 1500 meters
Result
Fokker EIII - Decisive.
Fokker EIII - Decisive.
[german balloon] - Decisive.
[german balloon] - Decisive.
---------------
Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: Type, etc,
NARRATIVE
Whilst on balloon defense with Capt. Nussbaum, Lt. Bedford, and
2nd Lt. Landers, I observed a flight of 4 Fokker E-types headed
toward our balloon. I turned and attempted to distract a Green
painted Fokker EIII by firing on him. He pressed home his attack,
and the balloon, unfortunately went down.
I kept after him and after a long burst that I observed to strike
near the cockpit, he crashed.
I then engaged a white painted Fokker and when I disabled his
engine, he attempted to land. As he did so, my finger "slipped"
and I accidentally triggered off a rocket which struck his under-
carriage as he was landing, he too crashed.
When our time was up, Capt. Nussbaum started leading us back.
I decided I didn't want to return with 7 rockets, so I went North
looking for German observation balloons. I found two of them and
dispatched both.
Your Humble Servant
[signed]
Geoffrey Hawks
----------------------------------------
Flight commanders comments:
Normally, I would have chastised 2nd Lt. Hawks for leaving the
flight without authorization, but as it is, it turns out his first two
victims were none other than Oswald Boelcke and Max Immelman,
Germany's leading fighter pilots.
However, I have warned 2nd Lt. Hawks about the wisdom of main-
taining formation even when presented with the most appetizing target.
As it is, I confirmed both of his Fokker claims, and ground observers
also confirmed his balloons.
[signed]
Capt. Nussbaum, MC
Commander, A flight.
COMBATS IN THE AIR
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No. 1 RFC
Date: 04/05/1916
Time: 09:58
Type of Aeroplane: Nieuport 11
Locality:2 miles W. of Armentaires
Pilot: 2Lt.Geoffrey Hawks
Duty: Aerodrome attack
Height: 1000 meters
Result
[german balloon] - Decisive.
---------------
Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: Type, etc,
NARRATIVE
While returning from attacking a Hun aerodrome, I observed a Hun
balloon being hauled down. I figured it would be better if I helped
the Huns bring it down, so I did. Unforunately, it caught fire,
so it was a total loss.
[signed]
Geoffrey Hawks
COMBATS IN THE AIR
-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-
No. 1 RFC
Date: 07/05/1916
Time: 13:25
Type of Aeroplane:Nieuport 11
Locality:5 miles N. of Bethune
Pilot: 2Lt.Geoffrey Hawks
Duty: Balloon defense
Height: 2000 meters
Result
Fokker EIII - Decisive.
Fokker EIII - Decisive.
Aviatik CI - Decisive.
Aviatik CI - Decisive.
---------------
Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: Type, etc,
NARRATIVE
Whilst on balloon defense we observed a flight of Fokker E types
approaching our position. We dived to intercept, and in the ensuing
fight, I got two of them.
After we fought off the Fokker E types, we sighted a flight of
Aviatik 2 seaters trying to cross our lines, in the ensuing fight,
I got two of those also.
In both fights, my machine received no damage.
[signed]
Geoffrey Hawks
COMBATS IN THE AIR
-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-
No. 1 RFC
Date: 10/05/1916
Time: 17:32
Type of Aeroplane:Nieuport 11
Locality: Bethune
Pilot: 2Lt.Geoffrey Hawks
Duty: Barrage patrol
Height: 2000 meters
Result
Aviatik CI - Decisive.
---------------
Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: Type, etc,
NARRATIVE
Whilst on barrage patrol near Bethune, we observed a flight of
Aviatik CI's attempting to pass into our side of the lines. We
went to intercept, and they decided to run for home. After chasing
them nearly 30 minutes we finally caught up as they were trying to
land at their aerodrome, I shot down one, and the flight leader got
another. C flight from our squadron was also there and got the 2
remaining machines.
[signed]
Geoffrey Hawks, MC
--------------------------------------
For determination and skill in chasing down the enemy,
Geoffrey Hawks is awarded the Military Cross.
COMBATS IN THE AIR
-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-
No. 1 RFC
Date: 15/05/1916
Time: 05:23
Type of Aeroplane:Nieuport 11
Locality:4 Miles NE of Lens
Pilot: 2Lt.Geoffrey Hawks
Duty: Combat Air Patrol
Height: 2000 meters
Result
[german balloon] - Decisive.
---------------
Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: Type, etc,
NARRATIVE
Whilst enroute to our patrol station, I noticed a Hun Sausage below
being readied to go aloft. I dove on it and attack, it exploded
in a very nice fireball.
No other enemy aeroplanes or balloons were encountered.
[signed]
Geoffrey Hawks, MC
-----------------------------------------
16 May, 1916
Report to Squadron commander from A Flight Leader.
Major, I should like to bring to your attention the repeated acts
of disobeyance commited by 2Lt. Geoffrey Hawks. He repeatedly
leaves formation to go after enemy machines and balloons, even
when ordered strictly not to. I would have mentioned this earlier,
but the award of the Military Cross to him seemed a bad time to
do so. And while I realize he's the leading ace of the RFC, it's
still no excuse for his constant "roaming". We should either give
this man a roving commision so he can get himself killed with as
little bother to the rest of us as possible, or else, I recommend
transferring him to another unit before he destroys the discipline
in this one.
Your Servant,
Capt. H. Nussbaum, DSO, MC
Letter Home
Dearest Mother,
Sorry I haven't written you but I've been ever so busy. Since I've
joined the Royal Flying Corps, I've managed to bring down a total
of 11 machines and balloons. In fact, my first two victories were
none other than Oswald Boelcke, and Max Immelman. The brass
were very happy that I put them out of business. They had no less
than 14 victories each. Still, I would have been happier if they had
survived their crash landings.
I received the Military Cross a few days ago, so now I guess I'm
supposed to be some sort of hero. I've been informed that I'm to
get leave for the next two months, so I should be able to come home
and see you and father. I hope he's not too disappointed that I
didn't go into the cavalry. I'm certain though, if he could see
what happens to men and horses in the mire down on the ground,
he'd be much happier that I'm where I am.
Love, your son
Geoffrey.
----------------------------------------------------------
9 October, 1916
Follow-up report to Squadron Commander
Major, I trust, now that 2Lt. Hawks is no longer the leading RFC
ace that he will no longer get the favourable treatment he has been
receiving. While I wish him no ill will, he is a detriment to my flights
discipline, and ultimately the morale of the entire Squadron.
As is it, I shall, unless specifically ordered not, bring 2Lt. Hawks
up on formal charges the next time he disobeys a direct order
not to break formation.
Your servant,
[signed]
Capt. H. Nussbaum, DSO, MC
COMBATS IN THE AIR
-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-
No. 1 RFC
Date: 07/10/1916
Time: 09:49
Type of Aeroplane:Nieuport 11
Locality: Over the Trench line
Pilot: 2Lt.Geoffrey Hawks
Duty: Roving Commision
Height: 1000 meters
Result
[german balloon] - Decisive.
[german balloon] - Decisive.
[german balloon] - Decisive.
---------------
Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: Type, etc,
NARRATIVE
After finishing our Barrage support mission, I left the flight using
the Roving commision I'd been given by Maj. Selby to go looking for
trouble. Unfortunately all I could find were 3 Hun Sausages which I
brought down with no damage to my machine.
Your Servant,
[signed]
Geoffrey Hawks, MC
COMBATS IN THE AIR
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No. 1 RFC
Date: 12/10/1916
Time: 06:58
Type of Aeroplane:Nieuport 11
Locality: East of Ypres
Pilot: 2Lt.Geoffrey Hawks
Duty: Balloon Busting
Height: 1500 meters
Result
Albatros DII - Decisive.
Albatros DII - Decisive. (Shared with 2 others)
---------------
Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: Type, etc,
NARRATIVE
As we approached our intended target, I observed two of the new
Albatros type II fighters patroling above the Hun Sausage. As we
had discussed before, rather than participate in the attack on the
balloon, I started gaining height to engage the EA. As I approached,
one of them dove at the others in the flight, and one came at me.
We engaged in a little go around that took us to just above the ground,
and as my Lewis was empty, yet I had a perfect tail shot, I fired the
only ammo left to me. I fired off my rockets, two of which struck
the EA, sending him to the ground.
I then turned my attention to the other EA who was busy attacking my
flight mates. The three of us were really too much for him, and he
crashed into the ground also
Your Servant
[signed]
Geoffrey Hawks, MC
---------------------------------
For continued excellence and demonstrated leadership ability,
Geoffrey Hawks is hereby promoted to Lieutenant.
COMBATS IN THE AIR
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No. 1 RFC
Date: 14/10/1916
Time: 11:00
Type of Aeroplane:Nieuport 11
Locality: 5 miles SW of Lille
Pilot: Lt.Geoffrey Hawks
Duty: Offensive Patrol
Height: 2500 Meters
Result
Albatros DII - Decisive.
Albatros DII - Decisive.
---------------
Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: Type, etc,
NARRATIVE
Whilst on offensive patrol, encouter numerous flights of Aviatiks
and Albatros machines, whilst trying to avoid getting shot down,
I managed to bring down two Albatros DII type fighters.
Your Servant,
[signed]
Geoffrey Hawks, MC
COMBATS IN THE AIR
-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-
No. 1 RFC
Date: 22/10/1916
Time: 14:49
Type of Aeroplane: Nieuport 11
Locality: Bethune area
Pilot: Lt.Geoffrey Hawks
Duty: Offensive patrol
Height: 2000 meters
Result
Albatros DII - Decisive.
[german balloon] - Decisive.
---------------
Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: Type, etc,
NARRATIVE
Whilst on offensive patrol I observed a Hun Sausage 5 miles East
of Bethune, I attacked and destroyed the balloon. Shortly after that,
I was set upon by two Hun Albatros DII type fighters. I destroyed
one, but had to leave due to lack of ammo before I could do anything
to the other one.
Your Servant,
[signed]
Geoffrey Hawks, MC
---------------------------
For bravery in combat, the Republic of France awards
Lt. Geoffrey Hawks, MC, the Croix de Guerre.
COMBATS IN THE AIR
-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-
No. 1 RFC
Date: 26/10/1916
Time: 15:55
Type of Aeroplane:
Locality:Armentaires
Pilot: Lt.Geoffrey Hawks
Duty: Escourt
Height: 2000 meters
Result
Roland CLII - Decisive. [flamer]
Albatros DII - Decisive.
---------------
Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: Type, etc,
NARRATIVE
Whilst escourting a flight of BE-2s on a bombing mission, we were
set upon by a pair of Albatros DIIs. I got one, and Major Selby got
the other. I then noticed that two Roland CLII's were stalking us,
so I set off after them, in the ensuing fight, I brought one down in
flames, the other ran off.
Your Servant
[signed]
Geoffrey Hawks, MC
COMBATS IN THE AIR
-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-
No. 1 RFC
Date: 31/10/1916
Time: 06:49
Type of Aeroplane:Nieuport 17
Locality:Bethune
Pilot: Lt.Geoffrey Hawks
Duty: Offensive Patrol
Height: 2000 meters
Result
Halberstadt DII - Decisive.
Halberstadt DII - Decisive.
---------------
Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: Type, etc,
NARRATIVE
Whilst on offensive patrol we observed two Hun Halberstadt DII
fighters approaching. We engaged them immediately. I dispatched
the first one when I hit the pilot. I was attempting to finish the
2nd when Capt. Nussbaum fired striking my aircraft, wounding me in
the arm. I still managed to bring down the 2nd Halberstadt, no thanks
to Capt. Nussbaum. I then proceeded to our side of the lines and
set my machine down before I bled to death.
Your Servant
[signed]
Geoffrey Hawks, MC
----------------------------------
To:Maj. Branson, CO No. 29 Squadron RFC
From: Maj. Selby, MC, CO No. 1 Squadron RFC
Richard, I hope you don't mind taking over my problem child, Lt. Hawks.
There's been something of an incident here in that he claims that his
flight commander may have shot him on purpose, whilst his FC claims
that Hawks blundered in the way. This is still under investigation,
and the FC is grounded until it's conclusion, but as he is rather popular,
and Hawks is considered something of a Prima Dona, I'd appreciate
it very much if you'd take him into your squadron once he's out of Hospital.
Best Regards,
[signed]
Maj. Selby, MC
CO No. 1 Squadron, Royal Flying Corps.
COMBATS IN THE AIR
-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-
No. 29 RFC
Date: 03/11/1916
Time: 11:00
Type of Aeroplane:Airco DH-2
Locality:Bethune
Pilot: Lt.Geoffrey Hawks
Duty: Combat Air Patrol
Height: 7000 feet
Result
Aviatik CI - Decisive.
[german balloon] - Decisive.
---------------
Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: Type, etc,
NARRATIVE
Whilst on Patrol, Maj. Branson noticed a flight of Aviatik CI's coming
into our sector. We gave chase and along with some Nieuports of No.
60 Squadron, we managed to bring some of them down. I got one when
I hit the pilot.
I then noticed a Hun balloon within sight of where I'd brought down
the Aviatik, so I went after it. While I was attacking it, a Hun
Albatros DII dove down to attack me, I swerved out of the way, and he
smashed into the balloon just as I flamed it. I thought I should get
credit for this one too, but the Major thought otherwise.
Your servant,
[signed]
Geoffrey Hawks, MC
COMBATS IN THE AIR
-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-
No. 29 RFC
Date: 06/11/1916
Time: 14:50
Type of Aeroplane: Airco DH-2
Locality:Bethune
Pilot: Lt.Geoffrey Hawks
Duty: Escort
Height: 8000 feet
Result
Fokker EIII - Decisive.
---------------
Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: Type, etc,
NARRATIVE
Whilst escorting a bombing mission, we were set upon by a pair of
Fokker EIII's. I managed to get one, however, in the dogfight, I was
seperated from Capt. Selby, who was shot down on our side of the lines.
The bombers we were escorting bombed their target and returned to their
aerodrome safely.
Your Servant
[signed]
Geoffrey Hawks, MC
COMBATS IN THE AIR
-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-
No. 29 RFC
Date: 13/11/1916
Time: 10:51
Type of Aeroplane: Airco DH-2
Locality: 5 miles SW of Lille
Pilot: Lt.Geoffrey Hawks
Duty: Offensive Patrol
Height: 6400 feet
Result
Aviatik CI - Decisive.
---------------
Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: Type, etc,
NARRATIVE
Whilst on offensive patrol, observed a flight of Aviatik 2-seaters.
Attacked one, and as the fight took me to their aerodrome, I finally
got him whilst he was landing, unfortunately, my engine was hit, and
I glided to a landing not too far from the enemy aerodrome. As it was,
I was a guest of the Kaiser until 20 Feb., 1917. Oh yes, their food
is absolutely horrible.
Your Servant,
[signed]
Geoffrey Hawks, MC
COMBATS IN THE AIR
-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-
No. 29 RFC
Date: 20/02/1917
Time: 14:47
Type of Aeroplane:Nieuport 17
Locality: Bethune
Pilot: Lt.Geoffrey Hawks
Duty: Combat Air Patrol
Height: 2000 meters
Result
Aviatik CI - Decisive.
---------------
Remarks on Hostile Aircraft: Type, etc,
NARRATIVE
Whilst in route to our assigned patrol area, we encountered a flight
of Aviatik CI's. I managed to bring one down through the costly
maneauver of colliding with it. Fortunately, both I and my erstwhile
victims survived the crash landings. Although they ended up as POWs.
Your Servant,
[signed]
Geoffrey Hawks, MC
---------------------------------
Whilst attacking a flight of Roland CIIs, Lt. Hawks' engine caught
fire. Rather than burn to death, Lt. Hawks jumped from his aircraft
at an altitude of 2000 meters.
He will be sorely missed.
[signed]
Maj. R. Branson, DSO, MC,
CO 29 Squadron RFC
22 February, 1917
DISCLAIMER
This page is a work of fiction. In other words, other than the combat report part, which was generated as the result of playing the game, Red Baron 3D, the rest of the information, including "letters home" is a fictional creation. And, just like in the movies, any resemblance to ANYONE living, dead, or undead, is pure coincidence, and completely unintentional.
Created:June 12, 1999
Last Modified:June 18, 1999
This page is ©1999, to Albert Lowe