Ronald William Turner

Lieutenant Ronald William Turner was an English World War I flying ace. He was credited with nine aerial victories while flying as an observer/gunner in two-seater fighters.

Early life
Ronald William Turner was born in York, England on 17 November 1897. The younger Turner worked for five years as a joiner and carpenter prior to joining the Yorkshire Regiment to serve in World War I. He was promoted to Lance Corporal in the Yorkshires, then commissioned as a second lieutenant.

World War I
Turner transferred from infantry duty to the Royal Flying Corps in December 1917. By May 1918, he had completed training as an aerial observer, been posted to 20 Squadron, and begun his string of aerial success that would run until 29 July 1918. On 9 August 1918, he was medically evacuated to a London hospital.

He was rewarded for his valour with the Distinguished Flying Cross on 4 November 1918. His award citation short-changed him when it read:

""A skilful and determined observer who in recent operations has shot down six enemy machines, accounting for two Albatross scouts in one flight.""

He was subsequently promoted to temporary lieutenant, with seniority from 27 December 1918. Upon recovery, he would serve at the School of Air Gunnery through the turn of the year, and with 50th TDS in early 1919.

List of aerial victories
See also Aerial victory standards of World War I

Post World War I
On 1 June 1919, he went on the unemployed list of the Royal Air Force and disappeared into the mists of history.