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Willy Coppens de Houthulst
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Willy Coppens de Houthulst
Willy Coppens de Houthulst, " The Balloon King"
The Royal Air Force Museum is Britain's only national museum dedicated wholly to aviation
Media ID 1481791
© Royal Air Force Museum Collection
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> World War Two
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph depicts Willy Coppens de Houthulst, a renowned Belgian World War I aviator, affectionately known as "The Balloon King." Coppens de Houthulst was born on October 15, 1892, in Antwerp, Belgium. He began his military career in the Belgian Army before joining the Royal Flying Corps (RFC) in 1915. Coppens de Houthulst quickly distinguished himself as an exceptional pilot, particularly in the realm of anti-aircraft balloon destruction. With a total of 34 confirmed victories, he is the second-highest scoring Belgian ace of World War I. His skill in this area earned him the nickname "The Balloon King." In the photograph, Coppens de Houthulst is seen wearing his RFC uniform, complete with a leather flying helmet and goggles. His intense gaze and determined expression convey the focus and courage required to engage in aerial combat. The backdrop of the image is a hangar or aircraft shed, filled with biplanes, providing a glimpse into the bustling atmosphere of a military airfield during wartime. Coppens de Houthulst's achievements extended beyond his impressive tally of victories. He was also known for his daring exploits, such as flying low over enemy lines to drop bombs on key targets. After the war, he continued to serve in the Belgian Air Force and later became a test pilot for the SABCA aircraft manufacturing company. This photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the bravery and skill of the pilots who took to the skies during World War I, risking their lives to protect their countries and change the course of history.
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