Capt. Clive Wilson
Warman, RFC
Victories:
11.5 (12)
Squadrons:
23 Sq.
Born:
30 June 1892 Norfolk, Virginia
Died: 12 May 1919 Killed in a Flying Accident
Chingford, UK
Awards:
British Distinguished Service Order (DSO)
British Military Cross (MC)
Notes
Clive Warman is the
only American to be awarded the British Distinguished Service
Order (DSO) in the First World War. On 16 August 1917, Warman
shot down a two-seater and a balloon before engaging three German
scouts. When his machine gun jammed and couldn't be cleared, he
threw his gun mallet at his opponents and resumed the fight with
his flare pistol. For his actions, Warman was awarded the
Distinguished Service Order (DSO). While serving with the Royal
Canadian Air Force, Warman died from injuries sustained in a
crash at Chingford on 8 May 1919.
Distinguished
Service Order (DSO)
"For
conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During two days
whilst operating under difficult conditions in high wind and
against strong enemy opposition, he destroyed three enemy
machines and a balloon. He displayed the greatest dash and
fearlessness in attacking an enemy aerodrome and on one occasion,
when separated from his patrol and surrounded by twenty machines,
he fought his way through, although his machine gun was useless,
by attacking with his Verey pistol; eventually regaining his own
aerodrome with his machine much shot about. His wonderful
coolness and courage have on all occasions been beyond
praise." DSO citation, London Gazette, 9 January 1918
Military
Cross (MC)
"For
conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He has on all
occasions proved himself to be an exceptionally skillful and
gallant pilot, having in the space of six weeks brought down six
machines and destroyed a hostile balloon. He has also driven down
at least five other enemy machines, displaying a consistent
determination to attack at close range regardless of personal
danger." MC citation, London Gazette, 26 September 1917
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