Commissioned in the Royal Fusiliers in 1914, Frederick Sowrey, the son of John W. and Susan M. Sowrey, transferred
to the Royal Flying Corps in December 1915. 2nd Lieutenant Frederick Sowrey received Royal Aero Club Aviator's Certificate 2838 on a Maurice Farman biplane at military school, Thetford on 23 April 1916. Posted to 39 Squadron, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Order for downing Zeppelin L32 on 24
September 1916. After serving with 37 Squadron he was sent to France before joining 19 Squadron as a flight
commander on 14 June 1917. With this unit he scored 12 more victories and was awarded the Military Cross. Upon returning to England, he assumed command of
143 Squadron for the duration of the war.
Great Britain, Royal Aero Club Aviators' Certificates, 1910-1950
Military Cross (MC)
"For conspicuous gallantry and devotion
to duty in shooting down in less than two
months two Albatross scouts and a Rumpler
two-seater and a Fokker scout, and in two
engagements flying very low and engaging
and scattering hostile infantry."
