Albert Ball

Albert Ball was one of the most distinguished and talented pilots in the world during World War I, and was one of Britain’s most valuable fighters during the war. Although Ball did not excel much in any other scholastic areas, as shown by his poor marks throughout school, he naturally gravitated towards and excelled in that which he was clearly meant to pursue: aviation.

Ball was born in 1896 in Lenton, Nottingham. He had the good fortune to be born into a good family; his father was a successful businessman who could afford to give Ball a good education. After his schooling, Ball joined the 7th Battalion, and took private flying lessons. He quickly showed his talent in this area and was awarded his wings in 1916 and began fighting in the war.

Ball showed a lot of spirit and courage in the air, very often attacking multiple enemy planes at once, and if he didn’t shoot them all down the first time, he would leave for more ammunition and return and finish the job. He was ruthless and fearless, but patient enough to wait for the right moment to get a good shot at an enemy plane.

While on ground, however, Ball was more mild. He wasn’t your traditional hero with the crowds, preferring instead to be alone most of the time. He liked to garden and play the violin. He also is quoted as saying that he would be glad when all the killing was over because he hated it.

Ball received multiple awards and decorations for his successes in the air: the Victoria Cross, the Military Cross, and two Distinguished Service Order Bars. He died in the air battle of Douai, when British aircraft met up with German fighters. He was only 21 years old.