Alfred William Saunders

Captain Alfred William Saunders (16 January 1888 – 22 May 1930) was an Irish flying ace of the First World War, credited with twelve aerial victories. He remained in the RAF post-war, serving until 1927.

Early life and background Saunders was born in Dublin,

World War I Saunders was commissioned as a second lieutenant (on probation) in the Royal Field Artillery on 24 May 1915, serving in the Gallipoli campaign He then transferred to the Royal Flying Corps, receiving Royal Aero Club Aviator's Certificate No. 3283 after soloing a Maurice Farman biplane at Military School, Catterick Bridge, on 20 July 1916,

On 1 July 1917 he was promoted to lieutenant in the Royal Field Artillery, but had to wait until 1 September until receiving the same step in the RFC. The following month he was posted to No. 60 Squadron in France to fly the S.E.5a single-seat fighter. taking command of "A" Flight. On 1 August, Saunders vanquished one of the new Fokker D.VIIs, sending it out of control over Bapaume. A week later, it was the turn of a German reconnaissance two-seater to fall out of control over Chaulnes. The next day, 9 August 1918, Saunders shot down two Fokker D.VIIs.

List of aerial victories +Combat record but was granted a short service commission with the rank of flying officer on 12 December. He eventually relinquished his commission in the Royal Field Artillery on 1 April 1920. On 5 February 1923, he was transferred to the Reserve of Air Force Officers (Class "A"). On 16 December 1924, he then transferred to the "Class C" Reserves. On 5 February 1927, he relinquished his commission upon completion of service.

On 22 May 1930 Saunders was giving passenger flights in Te Awamutu, New Zealand, when his de Havilland Gipsy Moth went into a tail spin and crashed, killing his passenger instantly, while Saunders died from his injuries later.