After serving with the Royal Field Artillery in France, Edwin Louis Benbow transferred to the Royal Flying Corps in 1916. He received Royal Aero Club Aviator's Certificate 3109 on a Maurice Farman biplane at military school, Ruislip on 21 June 1916. Benbow was only the ace to score all of his victories flying the F.E.8. Wounded by anti-aircraft fire on 19 March 1917, Benbow served as an instructor before joining William Bishop's 85 Squadron as a flight commander. He returned to France in May 1918 and was killed in action later that month. Benbow's S.E.5a was shot down by Hans-Eberhardt Gandert of Jasta 51.
Great Britain, Royal Aero Club Aviators' Certificates, 1910-1950
Military Cross (MC)
2nd Lt. (temp. Lt.) Edwin Louis Benbow, R.F.A. and R.F.C.
For conspicuous gallantry in action. He has on several occasions displayed great courage and skill, and has destroyed four enemy machines under difficult conditions.
Supplement to the London Gazette, 13 February 1917, 1539
