Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

The British War Medal awarded to Major C. S. Danby, Royal Flying Corps and Royal Air Force, a B.E.2c pilot whose gallantry whilst serving with 15 Squadron was recognised with the award of a Military Cross

British War Medal 1914-20 (Major C. S. Danby. R.A.F.) minor edge bruising, very fine £240-280

M.C. London Gazette 1 January 1917, the original recommendation states:

‘For exceptional brilliant work as a pilot in co-operation with the Artillery from January to July 1916. Lieut. Danby has always shown the greatest dash and determination, frequently carrying out his work under the most difficult conditions.’

Cyril Stone Danby was born in West Bridgford, Nottingham, in May 1891. He was a self-employed Manufacturer in his home city prior to the Great War. Danby was initially commissioned into the Rifle Brigade, and then transferred as a Second Lieutenant to the Royal Flying Corps in March 1915. Having trained as a Pilot, he was posted to 15 Squadron at Dover in May 1915.

Danby accompanied the Squadron to France as a ‘founder member’, 23 December 1915. The Squadron flew B.E.2c’s, and were engaged as a reconnaissance unit tasked with Artillery spotting and photography. Danby was engaged thus on 14 March 1916:

‘March 14 cost the squadron its first casualties on the Somme front. 2/Lt. C. Danby and P F J Kent were engaged in photographing ground in the Aichet-le-Grand area just before noon, escorted by 2/Lt J C Cunningham (Observer, AM J W Newton). Their BE was attacked by a Fokker which dived at them from 8,000ft. The escort BE immediately engaged the Fokker but both Cunningham and Newton were killed in the ensuing combat.’ (XV Squadron RFC/RAF 1915-19 by R. Vann and R. C. Bowyer refers)

Danby advanced to Acting Captain and was appointed a Flight Commander in July 1916. He completed his tour, and returned to the UK to serve as an Instructor. Danby continued to be employed in this capacity whilst serving in the Adriatic theatre of war, 1917-1918. He advanced to Major and was posted to 113 Squadron in Palestine, 11 February 1919. Danby was discharged in December 1919, and continued to reside in Nottingham after the war.

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