HALLMARKED SILVER TEAPOT PRESENTED TO WWI ACE HENRY MICHAEL MOODY R.A.F. CRANWELL

Henry Michael Moody was born in Welshampton, Shropshire, one of twins to The Reverend Henry Moody.

Henry's twin was killed in Belgium on 21 Aug 1917 with No.1 Squadron, R.F.C. Henry was commissioned 2nd Lieutenant with the Royal Flying Corps and posted to No.24 Squadron, operating over Northern France in Sopwith Camels. Moody was credited with 8 aerial victories, including the victim over German ace, Alwin Thurm.

He was awarded the Military Cross in Sep 1918, with the citation as follows: "For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in leading patrols. He has destroyed four enemy aircraft and shot down three out of control. He has further carried out very successfully a number of low-flying patrols, photographic reconnaissances, and escorts, and has on all occasions shown a very fine spirit of dash and determination."

On 2 Aug 1922, Moody married Austin Robina "Bobbie" Horn, the youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs C.A. Horn of Beaumont, Jersey and Adelaide, South Australia. The wedding took place at St. Aubin's Church, Jersey. On 23 Apr 1931 Moody was piloting a de Havilland Moth, with Air Vice-Marshal Felton Vesey Holt as passenger. On leaving R.A.F. Tangmere, Moody collided with a Siskin of No.43 Squadron, which was diving in salute. Holt tried to parachute, but was too low. Moody stayed with the aircraft which crashed into woodland. Both men were killed instantly.

Henry Michael Moody and his brother Charles Angelo Moody are commemorated on the war memorial at the church of St. Michael & All Angels in Welshampton.

Watch Steve Nuwar present a short video on the collection.