Roy W. Chappell

Air Commodore Roy Williamson Chappell (31 December 1896 – 7 February 1982) began his military aviation career as a British World War I flying ace credited with 11 official aerial victories. He remained in service post-war, becoming an intelligence specialist on Japan and the Japanese military. He served through the end of World War II.

World War I Chappell entered military service during December 1915 as a private in the South African Cavalry. He then joined Inns of Court Officers Training Corps in England, and was commissioned a temporary second lieutenant on 17 June 1916. He also underwent pilot's training, receiving Royal Aero Club pilot's certificate number 3329 on 17 July 1916; on 24 August 1916 Second Lieutenant R. W. Chappell was appointed a Flying Officer in the Royal Flying Corps. In September 1916, he was posted to 27 Squadron RFC as a Martinsyde Elephant pilot. On 5 November 1919, he was assigned as a flight commander in the Air Council Inspection Squadron. On 11 February 1929, Chappell was assigned to Staff Duty with the Directorate of Operations and Intelligence. On 7 April 1931, he returned to staff duty at DO&I. In June 1931, he requalified as a Japanese Interpreter, First Class. On 1 July 1935, he was confirmed as wing commander.

On 10 February 1938, he was a supernumerary at No. 1 RAF Depot.

On 16 September 1939, he was appointed the deputy director of intelligence. He died on 7 February 1982, after a long retirement.

Honours and awards Military Cross T./Capt. Roy Williamson Chappell, R.F.C.

For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He showed the greatest skill and courage in leading patrols, with the result that during four days' operations the formations which he led destroyed 19 enemy aeroplanes and drove down several others, the fate of which was not observed, owing to the intensity of the fighting. He has destroyed altogether five enemy machines, and has driven down seven others out of control.

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