William George Barker

William George Barker, VC, DSO & Bar, MC & Two Bars (1894-1930) was a distinguished Canadian fighter pilot who served during the First World War. He is renowned as the most decorated serviceman in the history of Canada. Initially enlisting in the Canadian Expeditionary Force, Barker transferred to the British Royal Flying Corps in 1916, beginning his legendary career as an aviator. He served on multiple fronts, including in France and Italy, demonstrating exceptional skill and bravery in aerial combat.

Throughout his service, Barker was credited with 50 aerial victories, making him one of the top aces of the war. His most famous engagement occurred on October 27, 1918, over the Forêt de Mormal in France. While flying a Sopwith Snipe, he single-handedly attacked a large formation of German aircraft, downing four of them despite being severely wounded. This act of extraordinary heroism earned him the Victoria Cross, the highest award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

In addition to the Victoria Cross, Barker's extensive list of decorations includes the Distinguished Service Order with one Bar, the Military Cross with two Bars, and foreign awards such as the French Croix de Guerre and two Italian Silver Medals for Military Valour. His record underscores his status as a national hero in Canada. After the war, he briefly served in the newly formed Royal Canadian Air Force and co-founded a commercial aviation company. His life was tragically cut short in an aircraft accident in 1930. Barker's legacy as a courageous and highly skilled pilot remains a significant part of military aviation history.