British Captain pilot Albert Ball posing for a photograph with a German propeller following his 43rd aerial victory, ca. May 5, 1917.
British Captain pilot Albert Ball posing for a photograph with a German propeller following his 43rd aerial victory, ca. May 5, 1917. Colourised by 'Photos Redux' on Facebook. On May 7, 1917, the British flying ace Captain Albert Ball VC was killed in action near Douai on the Western Front - Britain's 4th deadliest pilot of the First World War. In August 1914, Albert Ball enlisted in the British Army at the age of 18. Ball already had military experience, having served in the Officers' Training Corps, and was therefore appointed to train new recruits instead of serving in France. He was promoted to 2nd Lieutenant by October 29, 1914. Ball was not content with his role on the home front. Seeking more action, he eventually took up private flying lessons in June 1915. Although his flying instructors deemed him an average pilot, Ball found flying thrilling and requested a transfer to the Royal Flying Corps. His request was granted, and by February 18, 1916 he was in Franc...