Douglas Bader

Date of Birth: February 21, 1910

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: September 5, 1982

Biography

Douglas Bader was a famed British fighter pilot and war hero known for his remarkable service during World War II. Born on February 21, 1910, in St John’s Wood, London, Bader is celebrated for his courage and tenacity, especially after overcoming the loss of both legs in a flying accident in 1931. Despite his disability, Bader rejoined the Royal Air Force (RAF) at the outbreak of World War II and quickly rose to prominence. He became a squadron leader and was credited with 22 aerial victories, cementing his legacy as one of Britain’s most skilled pilots. Bader’s leadership and indomitable spirit were instrumental during the Battle of Britain, and he continued to inspire many even after being shot down and captured in 1941. Post-war, Bader worked in the aviation industry and became a tireless advocate for disabled veterans. He passed away on September 5, 1982, in Chiswick, London, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and resilience.

5 Interesting Facts about Douglas Bader

1. Douglas Bader lost both of his legs in a flying accident in 1931 but learned to walk again using prosthetic limbs.

2. He was shot down over France in 1941 and spent the rest of the war as a prisoner of war, including time at the infamous Colditz Castle.

3. Bader was known for his uncompromising and sometimes controversial leadership style, earning both admiration and criticism from his peers.

4. He was the subject of the 1956 film “Reach for the Sky,” which dramatized his life and wartime exploits.

5. Bader was knighted in 1976 for his services to disabled people and his continued advocacy for veterans.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Douglas Bader

1. “Rules are for the obedience of fools and the guidance of wise men.”

2. “Don’t listen to anyone who tells you that you can’t do this or that. Make up your mind, you’ll never use crutches or a stick, then have a go at everything.”

3. “You can’t call yourself a man until you’ve flown on a Spitfire.”

4. “My God! I can walk!”

5. “Courage is the thing. All goes if courage goes.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Douglas Bader’s highest net worth isn’t well-documented, but he lived a comfortable life post-war, largely due to his career in the aviation industry and his knighthood.

Children

Douglas Bader did not have any children with his wife, Thelma Edwards, whom he married in 1933. The couple remained together until Thelma’s death in 1971.