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Died Age: 19
source:wikimedia.org
Indra Lal Roy
Birthday:
02 Dec, 1898
Date of Death:
22 Jul, 1918
Cause of death:
killed in a dog fight
Nationality:
Indian
Famous As:
Fighter pilot
Age at the time of death:
19
Early Life and Education
Indra Lay Roy had such an incredible and heroic story. Even though his life was tragically cut short, Roy sure left an outstanding legacy behind with his name stamped in the history of India.
Before his sudden departure, Roy was a fighter pilot in the British Royal Flying Corps (later the Royal Air Force) during World War I.
Known as the first and only Indian flying ace, Roy demonstrated extraordinary bravery by shooting down at least five enemy aircraft. He was also the first Indian recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC), a prestigious military honor for courage and gallantry in the air.
Roy, nicknamed “Laddie” was born on December 2, 1898, in Calcutta, British India as the second son of Piera Lal Roy and Lolita Roy.
Roy grew up in a prominent family—his father was a barrister, and his uncle, Prafulla Chandra Roy, was a renowned chemist. He studied at St. Paul’s School in London, where he developed a fascination for aviation. In 1917, he joined the Royal Flying Corps, which marked the beginning of his short but heroic career.
Indra Lal Roy's Quote's
Military Career and Achievements
After earning his pilot’s wings in July 1917, Roy was posted to France in November of the same year. He piloted an S.E.5a, a single-seat biplane fighter. On July 6, 1918, he claimed his first aerial victory, quickly followed by four more within two weeks, solidifying his status as an ace.
For his remarkable skills and bravery, Roy was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross in September 1918. His citation praised his “conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty.”
Tragically, his illustrious career was cut short when he was killed in a dogfight with a German pilot on July 22, 1918, at the age of 19. He was buried with full military honors at the Estevelles Communal Cemetery in France.
Roy’s story of determination and courage continues to inspire many. Despite initial rejection due to poor eyesight, he persevered and succeeded in joining the Royal Flying Corps. His miraculous survival after being declared dead in a French morgue further adds to his legend.
Furthermore, Roy’s story has been featured in various media, including comics and documentaries, ensuring that his legacy lives on and continues to be remembered by future generations.
Profile Snapshot
Name:
Indra Lal Roy
Popular Name:
Indra Lal Roy
Gender:
Male
Cause of Death:
killed in a dog fight
Spouse:
Unmarried
Place of Birth:
Calcutta, British India
Place of Death:
Carvin, France
Occupation / Profession:
Fighter pilot
Personality Type
Entertainer: Spontaneous, energetic and enthusiastic people – life is never boring around them. Indra Lal Roy was brave enough to command a fighter jet in battle and was even victorious in many aerial battles.
Indra Lal Roy's Interesting Facts
First Indian Fighter Pilot: Roy was a trailblazer in aviation, representing India in the British forces during World War I.
Ace Pilot: Achieved the rare distinction of being an “ace,” a title given to pilots with at least five aerial victories.
His gallantry inspired future generations of Indian aviators and freedom fighters.
Youthful Bravery: At only 19, he demonstrated exceptional courage and skill in combat, earning international recognition.
Achievements & Awards
Indra Lal Roy was awarded the Distinguished Flyin Cross in 1918. He was the first Indian to receive this honor.
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