John Todd

Captain John Todd (1899–1980) was a Scottish First World War flying ace credited with 18 aerial victories.

Military service Todd was a medical student at the University of Edinburgh before he joined the Royal Flying Corps as a cadet. He was commissioned as a temporary second lieutenant (on probation) on the General List on 2 August 1917, and was confirmed in his rank on 3 November.

He was posted to No. 70 Squadron RFC to fly the Sopwith Camel single-seat fighter, and scored his first victory on 22 January 1918. Further victories followed, and Todd had brought his score up to five by the end of March, to make him an ace. As such he gained six more victories in May, three in June, and his 18th and last on 1 July 1918. followed by his Military Cross on 16 September. On 5 January 1919 he was transferred to the RAF's unemployed list.

A replica of the F.1 Sopwith Camel B7320 flown by Todd is on permanent display at Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre in Montrose, Angus

List of aerial victories +Combat record

Awards and citations Distinguished Flying Cross Lieutenant (Temporary Captain) John Todd, MC. (formerly No. 70 Squadron). "With four other officers he engaged ten enemy scouts, shooting down one; later, on the same day, he shot down another in flames. In addition to these, during the last two months he has shot down seven enemy machines. His gallantry in leading his flight into action against enemy patrols of superior numbers has been an inspiring example.

Military Cross Second Lieutenant (Temporary Captain) John Todd, R.A.F. "For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. During recent operations he destroyed three enemy aircraft, forced one to land in our lines, and drove four down out of control. He did very fine work."