Lionel Morris and the Red Baron: Air War on the Somme

In 1916, Lionel Morris joined the Royal Flying Corps on the Western Front, where he learned to fly and became a combat pilot during the Battle of the Somme. On September 17, 1916, his squadron was attacked by the legendary German pilot Manfred von Richthofen, marking a pivotal shift in the aerial war and the birth of the Red Baron's legend. This book explores Morris's life and role in history, using previously unpublished archive material and the words of contemporaries and official records.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2019
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

In 1916, at the age of nineteen, Lionel Morris made a significant transition from the infantry to the realm of aviation, joining the Royal Flying Corps on the Western Front. His decision to join one of the world's pioneering fighter units, alongside the legendary ace Albert Ball, marked a pivotal moment in his military career. Morris embarked on a journey of learning on the job, operating dangerously unpredictable machines, as he honed his skills as a combat pilot.

The Battle of the Somme, which unfolded on the first day of summer, became a defining moment in Morris's development. The Royal Flying Corps (R.F.C.) was engaged in a fierce battle for control of the air, and Morris played a crucial role in this struggle. As the skies over Bapaume filled with increasing numbers of enemy aircraft, the tide began to turn against the British forces.

On September 17, 1916, Morris's squadron encountered a formidable German unit, led by the enigmatic pilot known as Manfred von Richthofen. This encounter would have a profound impact on the course of the aerial war and the birth of one of history's greatest legends. The shock waves of the attack reverberated through the empty hangars of No. 11 Squadron, reaching the highest echelons of the British Army.

Morris's untimely death in the skies over Bapaume marked a significant turning point in the aerial conflict. The circumstances surrounding his demise shed light on the evolving nature of warfare and the emergence of new heroes. It was one hundred years after his death that Morris's role in history was rediscovered, thanks to previously unpublished archive material, the words of contemporaries, and official records.

The Red Baron's First Englishman is a captivating account of Lionel Morris's short but extraordinary life. It delves into his journey from a young infantryman to a seasoned combat pilot, his contributions to the R.F.C., and his tragic demise. The book sheds light on the historical context of the First World War, the technological advancements in aviation, and the impact of individual soldiers on the course of the war.

Through the use of previously unpublished archive material, the book provides a fresh perspective on Morris's life and achievements. It includes personal letters, official records, and eyewitness accounts, which bring the story to life and offer a deeper understanding of the man and his contributions.

The words of contemporaries, such as Albert Ball, who served alongside Morris, provide valuable insights into his character and abilities. Ball's admiration for Morris's skill and bravery is evident in his recollections, and his words shed light on the close bond that developed between the two pilots.

Official records, such as military reports and casualty lists, provide a detailed account of the battles that Morris participated in and the circumstances surrounding his death. These records showcase the bravery and sacrifice of soldiers on both sides of the conflict and highlight the importance of aerial warfare in shaping the outcome of the war.

The Red Baron's First Englishman is not only a tribute to Lionel Morris's legacy but also a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless soldiers during the First World War. It serves as a testament to the bravery and resilience of those who served in the air and on the ground, and it highlights the importance of preserving their stories for future generations.

In conclusion, The Red Baron's First Englishman is a captivating account of Lionel Morris's life and contributions to the First World War. Through the use of previously unpublished archive material, the words of contemporaries, and official records, the book provides a fresh perspective on Morris's journey and his role in shaping the course of the aerial war. It serves as a tribute to the bravery and resilience of those who served in the air and on the ground and highlights the importance of preserving their stories for future generations.

Weight: 620g
Dimension: 239 x 180 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526742223