Oliver Bryson

Oliver Campbell Bryson (18 August 1896 – 27 March 1977) was a Royal Air Force officer who served in both World Wars. He was a flying ace credited with 12 aerial victories during the First World War.

Early life and education Bryson was born in Lickey, a village in the Bromsgrove district of Worcestershire in England, the son of George and Edith Bryson. His father was a hardware merchant. In the 1911 Census of Uppingham in Rutland he is listed as a student at the Uppingham School.

First World War service Bryson was educated at Bromsgrove School, and joined the Queen's Own Dorset Yeomanry in 1914. Shortly thereafter, he was wounded in action. While serving in Egypt, he transferred to the Royal Flying Corps. On 15 March 1917, after a flaming crash, he rescued his fellow aircrew member. In July 1917, he was posted to fly a SPAD for 19 Squadron in France. His first aerial victory followed shortly; he drove down a German observation plane down out of control on 25 August. By the end of the year, Bryson's victory total had increased to 11. Bryson was also granted a permanent commission as flight lieutenant, effective 1 August 1919.

Bryson was stationed in India from 1928 to 1931; he won a Bar to his Distinguished Flying Cross for his efforts.

In 1933, Bryson was assigned to the Central Flying School and put in charge of engines. He also was promoted to Squadron Leader.

Oliver Campbell Bryson retired from the Royal Air Force in 1943, having served for almost three decades.

Citation accompanying award of the Military Cross:

Citation accompanying award of the Distinguished Flying Cross:

Bryson also won a Bar to the Distinguished Flying Cross. It was granted for his service on the North–West Frontier of India in 1930.