Description:

GEORGE EDWARD MCELROY
MC & Two Bars, DFC & Bar (1893 – 1918) Leading Irish-born fighter pilot of the Royal Flying Corps and Royal Air Force during World War I, credited with 47 kills. An extremely aggressive dog-fighter who ignored often overwhelming odds, McElroy's score grew rapidly. On 31 July 1918, he reported destroying a Hannover C for his 47th victory. He then set out again. He failed to return from this flight and was posted missing. Later it was learned that McElroy had been killed by ground fire. He was 25 years old. War-date air combat report, 1p. legal folio, [France]. Jan. 24, 1918, describes McElroy's 'kill' the same day, his fourth overall: '...E.A. was pointed out by A.A. fire. [I] approached, diving down from sun and then got in a burst ay about 75 yards. Tracers were seen to hit E.A. which made off very steeply downwards...fired another burst...[he] appeared to go down completely out of control...' He also mentions a second, inconclusive attack on an enemy aircraft. Nicely signed at bottom in blue ink. Also signed by the squadron major. File holes, light toning, else very good.

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April 6, 2022 10:00 AM EDT
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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