William Avery "Billy" Bishop

Air Marshal William Avery "Billy" Bishop was a legendary Canadian flying ace of the First World War, officially credited with 72 aerial victories. This remarkable feat made him the top ace of the Canadian forces and the entire British Empire during the conflict. His daring exploits in the skies over Europe established him as one of the most famous military figures of his era.

Born in Owen Sound, Ontario, Bishop initially joined the cavalry before transferring to the Royal Flying Corps. He quickly demonstrated extraordinary marksmanship and piloting skills. His most famous action occurred on June 2, 1917, when he conducted a daring solo raid on a German aerodrome, destroying multiple enemy aircraft under heavy fire, an action for which he was awarded the Victoria Cross.

During the Second World War, Bishop returned to active service with the Royal Canadian Air Force. Rising to the rank of Air Marshal, he played a crucial role in recruiting and promoting the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan, which trained over 130,000 Commonwealth aircrew in Canada, leaving an enduring legacy on Allied aviation history.