Leonard Monteagle Barlow

Who was Leonard Monteagle Barlow?

Lieutenant Leonard Monteagle Barlow, MC and 2 Bars, was a British World War I flying ace. He was born in Islington, London and studied electrical engineering prior to joining the Royal Flying Corps.

Barlow was posted to No. 56 Squadron and scored 20 victories whilst serving with the squadron, being awarded the Military Cross three times for his outstanding airmanship and bravery.

Dubbed 'The Gadget King', due to his inventiveness, Barlow developed an ingenious way of firing both of his SE5a aircraft's machine guns at the same time. On 25 September he claimed 3 Albatros fighters of Jasta 10, Lt. Weigand and Uzz. Werkmeister being killed and one other pilot wounded.

On 5 February 1918, Barlow was killed at Martlesham Heath whilst test flying a Sopwith Dolphin which broke up in mid air.

His final tally consisted of 12 and 1 shared destroyed, 6 and 1 shared 'out of control'.