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William McKenzie Thomson

1898 – 1987

Canadian flying ace

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About William McKenzie Thomson

Lived 1898 – 1987 (aged 88). William McKenzie Thomson was a Canadian flying ace.

William McKenzie Thomson MC, DFC (15 September 1898 – 9 July 1987) was a Canadian First World War flying ace, officially credited with 26 victories while flying Bristol Fighters with 20 Squadron of the Royal Flying Corps and Royal Air Force.

Text of citations

Military Cross Flight Lieutenant William MacKenzie Thomson, MC, DFC, distinguished himself through conspicuous gallantry and an unwavering devotion to duty during offensive patrols. Over a remarkable five-day period, Thomson destroyed five enemy aircraft, demonstrating a fierce determination to engage the enemy at close range. His actions served as a definitive example of enterprise and bravery, marking him as an elite presence within the Royal Air Force.

Distinguished Flying Cross "Lieut. William McKenzie Thomson, M.C. This officer has destroyed thirteen enemy machines, invariably displaying courage, determination and skill. Disparity in numbers never daunts him. On a recent occasion, in company with eight other machines, his formation was attacked by twenty-five scouts; he shot one down. On another occasion his formation of ten machines engaged between twenty and thirty Fokkers; in the combat that ensued this officer shot down one out of the four that were destroyed."

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Important facts

Birth century
Occupation
Nationality
Awards
Military Cross; Distinguished Flying Cross; Distinguished Flying Cross (United Kingdom)

People in William McKenzie Thomson's life

Named in this biography and alive at the same time

Contemporaries

People whose lives overlapped William McKenzie Thomson's

Frequently asked questions

Who was William McKenzie Thomson?

Canadian flying ace

When was William McKenzie Thomson born?

William McKenzie Thomson was born on 15 September 1898 in Lachine.

When did William McKenzie Thomson die?

William McKenzie Thomson died on 9 July 1987.

What was William McKenzie Thomson's occupation?

William McKenzie Thomson was a flying ace.

What nationality was William McKenzie Thomson?

William McKenzie Thomson was Canadian.

Sources & further reading

· Wikipedia: William McKenzie Thomson

· Wikidata: Q8015465

· DBpedia: William McKenzie Thomson

Cite this page

APA: Biography.guide. (2026). William McKenzie Thomson. https://biography.guide/william-mckenzie-thomson/

MLA: "William McKenzie Thomson." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/william-mckenzie-thomson/.

Chicago: "William McKenzie Thomson." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/william-mckenzie-thomson/.

Data last updated: 2026-09-20 · Spot an error? Report a correction.

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