William Harrop (aviator)

Squadron Leader William Harrop MM was a World War I flying ace credited with five aerial victories while flying as an enlisted observer. He would rise to become a squadron leader in World War II.

World War I service
Harrop won his Military Medal on 14 December 1916, while he was with the Pioneers. As of 21 July 1917, he was promoted from Second lieutenant to Lieutenant attached to the Royal Highlanders. He was mentioned in despatches by Sir Douglas Haig shortly thereafter.

He served as an observer/gunner aboard the Airco DH.9s of 104 Squadron teamed with Lt. George Smith. He drove down a Pfalz D.III over Boulay Airfield on 1 August 1918 for his first victory. On a morning patrol on the 12th, Harrop and Smith destroyed another Pfalz D.III, aided Arthur Rullion Rattray and his pilot in destroying an Albatros D.V, and drove down a third German fighter out of control over Saverne. One of these victories was over Vfw. Heinrich Krueger of Jasta 70. Three days later, at 1830 hours, Harrop and Smith drove another Pfalz down out of control, to make both men aces. Both were taken prisoner on 22 August 1918 after a raid on Mannheim. Harrop's final score was 1 (& 1 shared) destroyed, 2 (& 1 shared) 'out of control'.

Between the wars
On 17 June 1919, he was reported to still be serving in the 202nd Field Company, Royal Engineers when he was awarded the Croix de guerre.

World War II
William Harrop was promoted from Warrant Officer to Flying Officer, effective 29 April 1940, and confirmed in his rank a year later, effective 29 April 1941. On 1 March 1942, he was promoted to Temporary Flight Lieutenant.

Harrop became a Squadron Leader on 1 January 1946. On 1 November 1947, Harrop  was reverted to the rank of Flight Lieutenant again, with a seniority date of 1 September 1945. He was allowed to retain the rank of Squadron Leader, effective 24 June 1948.