Sgt. Bryan Smythe
Warbird Rising
6th Squadron, RAF
Abeele, Flanders, France

23 June 1915
Had a bit of a harrowing adventure today. Lieutenant Lloyd and I were assigned to do a morning artillery spot along with Lieutenants McDonald and Dillon. Our take off was fine, but about twelve minutes into the mission, my engine started knocking quiet a bit. I immediately turned for the nearest base and throttled down, then the engine completely stopped. I spied what I thought was a suitable looking field, but came in too fast, and realized I was going to hit some trees at the end. I pulled up and missed the trees, but stalled and crashed, destroying my bus. Surprisingly, both Lieut. Lloyd and I walked away from this crash without an scratch. My Guardian angel must have been looking out for us!


Take off for an artillery spot


No man commands safely unless he has learned well how to obey.