Now all roads lead to France and heavy is the tread
Of the living; but the dead returning lightly dance.
Edward Thomas, Roads

Monday, March 28, 2022

Ten Aces Speak




I put my bullets into the target as if I placed them there by hand.

René Fonck (France)


If one has not given everything, one has given nothing.

Georges Guynemer (France)


The most important thing in fighting was shooting, next the various tactics in coming into a fight and last of all flying ability itself.

Billy Bishop (Canada)


To be a great pilot you have to make a pact with the devil, but don't let him swallow you up.

Ernst Udet (Germany)


Courage is doing what you are afraid to do. There can be no courage unless you are scared.

Eddie Rickenbacker (USA)


Good flying never killed an enemy.

Mick Mannock (UK)


To the aircraft I aim, not the man.

Francesco Baracca (Italy)


I hate to shoot a Hun down without him seeing me, for although this method is in accordance with my doctrine, it is against what little sporting instincts I have left

James McCudden (UK)


A glorious death. Fight on and fly on to the last drop of blood and the last drop of benzen—to the last beat of the heart and the last kick of the motor: a death for a knight—a toast for his fellow, friend, and foe.

Manfred von Richthofen (Germany)


You must take the war to the enemy. You must attack and go on attacking all the time

Willy Coppens (Belgium)






1 comment:

  1. One more Ace:
    "When the Allies launched their massive Argonne-Meuse offensive, Luke’s commanding officer told him: “I’ll give you enough protection to run your string to a hundred. Only be careful!” “Don’t worry,” replied Luke, “They can’t get me!”. Fourteen confirmed kills in eight days.
    Sept 28th, Lt Frank Luke, Jr was killed.

    ReplyDelete