Cedric Howell

Cedric Ernest ‘Spike’ Howell: A Fighter Pilot’s Tale

Imagine a world where the skies were not just blue but battlegrounds, and pilots like Cedric Ernest ‘Spike’ Howell were the knights in shining armor, fighting for their countries. Born on June 17, 1896, in Adelaide, South Australia, Howell’s journey from a young man to an esteemed flying ace is nothing short of inspiring.

Enlisting and Early Days

Howell enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) in 1916. His path was not easy; he had to prove himself on the Western Front with the 46th Battalion before transferring to the Royal Flying Corps, where his true calling as a pilot began to shine.

From the Western Front to Italy

Howell’s service over the Western Front was short-lived. In late December 1917, he moved with his squadron to Italy, where he conducted several raids on ground targets and engaged in aerial combat missions. His bravery did not go unnoticed; he became a lieutenant in the Royal Air Force (RAF) after its formation in April 1918.

World War I’s Most Daring Aces

Howell achieved flying ace status early in 1918, conducting multiple raids and engaging in aerial battles against Central aircraft. He was awarded the Military Cross for his ‘conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty.’ His exploits were legendary; on June 15, 1918, he destroyed four enemy planes and sent a fifth down out of control during the Battle of the Piave River.

Final Victories and Post-War Life

Howell’s total made him No. 45 Squadron’s second highest-scoring ace after Matthew Frew, although some sources place his score as high as thirty aerial victories. Late in July, following ten months of active service in the cockpit, Howell was posted back to the United Kingdom where he spent the remainder of the war attached to training units as a flight instructor.

The Great Air Race

Howell’s life took an unexpected turn when the Australian Government offered a prize of £10,000 for the first aviator to pilot a British or Commonwealth-built aircraft from England to Australia within 30 days. On December 4, 1919, he accepted the challenge and set off with Lieutenant George Henry Fraser in their Martinsyde Type A Mk. I aircraft.

Tragic End

The pair faced numerous challenges during their journey, including poor weather that forced them to land in Dijon, France. They continued on but were unable to make it to the coast of Crete and crashed into the sea off Corfu. Both Howell and Fraser perished.

A Hero’s Farewell

Howell was accorded a funeral with full military honours, which took place at Warringal Cemetery, Heidelberg on April 22, 1920, with several hundred mourners in attendance. A stained-glass window dedicated to his memory was unveiled by General Sir Harry Chauvel at St. Anselm’s Church of England in Middle Park.

Cedric Ernest ‘Spike’ Howell’s legacy lives on as a testament to the bravery and dedication of those who fought in World War I. His story is a reminder that even in the darkest times, heroes rise to protect their nations. The skies may have been his battlefield, but his spirit endures.