William Barker was promoted to the rank of captain during his service on the Western Front.
Barker's Promotion and Role
After completing his pilot training in England in a remarkably short four weeks, William Barker returned to the Western Front in February 1917. It was during this period, specifically while flying a Reconnaissance Experimental 8 (R.E.8) aircraft, that he achieved this significant career advancement.
Alongside his promotion to captain, Barker was also appointed a flight commander, signifying a leadership role within his unit. This recognition came at a time when he was also awarded a bar for his Military Cross, highlighting his distinguished service and bravery.
To summarize his key advancements mentioned during this period:
| Advancement Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Military Rank | Captain |
| Command Role | Flight Commander |
| Associated Award | Bar for his Military Cross (MC) |
| Context | Occurred after his return to the Western Front in February 1917, while flying a Reconnaissance Experimental 8 (R.E.8). |
This promotion to captain was a notable step in his distinguished military career, which later saw him become one of Canada's most decorated war heroes.
