Richard Aveline Maybery, the son of Aveline and Lucy Maybery of The Priory, Brecon, transferred to the Royal Flying Corps after serving with the 21st (Empress of India's) Lancers. Upon completing his training, he was posted to 56 Squadron in June 1917. He quickly proved to be one of the best pilots in the unit, scoring 6 victories in the month of July. One month after he assumed command of A Flight, Maybery scored his 21st victory over Bourlon Wood, downing an Albatros D.V. As he followed the burning plane to the ground, Maybery's S.E.5a was hit by anti-aircraft fire, crashing 600 yards south of the village of Hayecourt. He was buried where he fell by members of K-Flakbatterie 108. Ever cheerful and extremely popular, Maybery's death was a tragic blow to the members of 56 Squadron.
De Ruvigny's Roll of Honour, 1914-1924
Military Cross (MC)
Lt. Richard Aveline Maybery, Lrs. and R.F.C.
For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. After attacking two aerodromes in succession at very low altitudes, and inflicting considerable damage, he attacked and dispersed a number of mounted men and then attacked a goods train. He next attacked and shot down a hostile machine at 500 feet, and before returning attacked a passenger train. On numerous occasions he has attacked, single handed, large hostile formations and set a fine example by his gallantry and determination.
Supplement to the London Gazette, 9 January 1918 (30466/627)
Military Cross (MC) Bar
Lt. Richard Aveline Maybery, M.C., Lrs. and R.F.C.
For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty as leader of offensive patrols for three months, during which he personally destroyed nine enemy aeroplanes and drove down three out of control. On one occasion, having lost his patrol, he attacked a formation of eight enemy aeroplanes. One was seen to crash and two others went down, out of control, the formation being completely broken up.
Supplement to the London Gazette, 23 April 1918 (30645/4858)
