John Knox MacArthur


Lieutenant John Knox MacArthur was an American World War I flying ace credited with six aerial victories. He was his squadron's first ace.

Biography

MacArthur was an electrical engineer before he joined the U.S. Army Air Force.
MacArthur downed his half dozen Germany planes from 13 June through 19 July 1918, including a pair of Fokker D.VIIs shared with Donald Hudson, and three other pilots on 2 July.
On 20 July 1918, he was one of three pilots forced down by stormy weather. He was wounded and captured by the Germans. Taken to hospital, he died of his wounds.
Having scored all of his victories in the Nieuport 28, he was one of the most successful pilots in the type, along with Douglas Campbell.

Honors and awards

Distinguished Service Cross
The Distinguished Service Cross is presented to John Knox MacArthur, Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in action near Luneville, France, June 13, 1918. Outnumbered and handicapped by his presence far behind the German lines, Second Lieutenant MacArthur and three flying companions fought brilliantly a large group of enemy planes, bringing down or putting to flight all in the attacking party, while performing an important mission.
Legion d'Honneur