In Memory Of

PAYNE, LEONARD ALLAN

Service Details
Age:
 24
Date of Birth:
 1894-07-15
Rank:
 Captain
Unit:
 48th Sqdn.
Regiment:
 Royal Air Force
Date of Death:
 1919-02-18
Cause of Death:
 Died in aircraft accident
Commemoration
Grave Reference:
 I. F. 10.
Cemetery:
 COLOGNE SOUTHERN CEMETERY
Localitly:
 Koln(Cologne), Nordrhein-Westfal
Country:
 Germany
Additional Information
Decorations:
 M C
Citations:
 LG 26 July 1918 - "For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. Volunteering to proceed on a special reconnaissance under adverse weather conditions, he penetrated for a distance of nine miles behind the enemy's lines, flying at an altitude of 200 feet, despite the most intense machine-gun and rifle fire. He returned later, his machine riddled with bullets, with the required information. Previous to this he had bombed and engaged with machine-gun fire bodies of hostile infantry with the most effective results. He has destroyed one hostile plane and driven down two others out of control. He has at all times displayed the greatest fearlessness and dash. "
Son of Alfred and Sarah Payne. On Barberton War Memorial. Credited with 11 victories. ref. South African Roll of Honour 1914-1918