| Frank Gerald Craven Weare | |
|---|---|
| Nickname | Weary |
| Born | 1896 Southborough, Kent, England |
| Died | 6 July 1971 |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/branch | Aviation |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit | No. 22 Squadron RAF |
| Awards | Military Cross |
Captain Frank Gerald Craven Weare was a World War I flying ace credited with 15 aerial victories in 40 days.[1]
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Frank Gerald Craven Weare was the son of Frank and Mary L. Weare. In 1901, while he was still a child, he was living in Tunbridge Wells.[2]
He was appointed flight commander and temporary captain on 11 March 1918.[3] He scored his first kill two days later. By the end of March, his tally was eight; in April he triumphed seven more times, ending his string with two wins on 22 April 1918. His observer/gunner for a dozen of these victories was George Hayward.[4]
Weare was granted a permanent commission as lieutenant in the Royal Air Force on 1 August 1919.[5] He was entered in the Aerial Derby to be flown during the August Bank Holiday of 1923. As one of the 16 entries flying Bristol F.2 Fighters, Flight Lieutenant Weare was representing RAF Cranwell.[6] On 31 December 1921, Weare was one of the Flying Officers to be appointed Flight Lieutenant.[7] He resigned his commission on 30 January 1924.[8]
On 25 November 1942, Weare was again commissioned second lieutenant, for service with the Army Cadet Force.[9] On 1 April 1950, Weare was a still a second lieutenant with the cadets.[10] He resigned his commission the last day of 1950.[11]
In his later years, Weare dealt in real estate; he was responsible for liquidating a private hotel on 14 June 1956,[12] and registered a block of land in Westgate-on-Sea on 14 July 1959.[13][14]
Military Cross
Lt. (T. /Capt.) Frank Gerald Craven Weare, E. Kent R. and R.F.C.
For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. In 'the course of eight days' operations he destroyed two enemy machines, drove down one out of control and enabled his observer to destroy two others. During an earlier engagement he carried out two valuable reconnaissances at a low altitude. He showed a splendid fighting spirit and displayed great skill and judgment in leading his formation.[15][16]
Bristol F2 Fighter Aces of World War I. Jon Guttman, Harry Dempsey, Osprey Publishing, 2007. ISBN 1846032016, 9781846032011.
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