Allan Brown (aviator)

Captain (later Wing Commander) Allan Runciman Brown was a World War I flying ace credited with five aerial victories. During World War II, he was a Wing Commander for the Royal Australian Air Force.

In civilian life, Brown was a draper in Launceston, Australia.

Brown originally served with the Australian Artillery. He transferred to the Royal Flying Corps on 5 December 1916. He was assigned to No. 68 Squadron RFC/1 Squadron AFC in Egypt. There he was teamed with Lieutenant Garfield Finlay as his observer/gunner on Bristol F2b Fighters; Brown's gunner for four of his five triumphs was Finlay. Brown's modus operandi was to force enemy planes into landing, and then destroy them on the ground with bombs and bullets. He scored his first win on 3 May 1918 near Suweilah, and his last one on 22 August 1918 at Ramleh. He also carried out successful ground attacks on cavalry and anti-aircraft guns.

Honors and awards
Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC)

Lieut. (A./Capt.) Allan Runciman Brown (Australian F.C.). (EGYPT)

On 22 August Capt. Brown, with Lieut. Finlay as his observer, attacked an enemy two-seater, forcing it to land in our lines. On four other occasions these officers have engaged and destroyed enemy aircraft, displaying marked gallantry and skill. In addition, they have rendered most valuable service in attacking enemy cavalry, anti-aircraft guns and other ground targets, inflicting heavy loss.

Supplement to the London Gazette, 8 February 1919 (31170/2035)