Saturday, 23 August 2014

Poem ~ Arrest of an Aviator - Sunday, 23 August 1914


An aeroplane squadron took off, heading for the front,
Making formation as normal but with one additional craft.
This unauthorized part of the flotilla was rapidly reported.
So on their approach to Dijon collective authorities waited.

As reported by the ‘Petite Parisien,’ comes the account,
Of this mystery plane travelling north from a Southern field.
Where upon their landing in Dijon an officer made the arrest.
Despite a group of aviators the offender was soon detected.

Dressed correctly in an aviators uniform this ‘Englishman,’
Being described as a foreigner but lacking the title of spy,
Was then protectively defended by fellow aviators.
This fresh faced young fellow was described as ‘pretty.’

The cropped suspect was in fact a keen young woman,
Having sacrificed their hair into the style of a man.
It transpired these other aviators knew of their addition,
And had been greatly implored for the uniform she wore.

Her ambition being to become a would be scout, in order
So she might serve in France, alongside her compatriots.
The gaining of the plane somewhat remained a mystery -
But in conjecture was probably stolen from the same base.

While her courage was respected and greatly appreciated,
The arresting officer said her services could not be accepted.
Her family being informed no doubt left her quite demoralized.
So soon had this eager young lady’s adventure ended,
Being closely detained until her astonished relatives arrived.

by Jamie Mann

Anon., 1914. Aeroplane Mystery - Young Lady's Escapade. The Daily Telegraph - Special Sunday Edition, [online] 23 Aug. p.2. Col.5. Available at: Available at: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/ww1-archive/11034683/Daily-Telegraph-August-23-1914.html [Accessed: 23rd August 2014].

Mann, J., 2014. 100 years Ago - Poems by Jamie Mann. [letter] (Personal communication, 23 August 2014). 



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