a Special Reserve pilot in 45 Sqn RFC, Bennie had been a teacher in a one-room schoolhouse on Pelee Island, Ont., who enjoyed riding a motorcycle. He was flying a Sopwith Strutter accompanied by his observer, Lt. Arthur Metheral of Moose Jaw, Sask. when they encountered some 16 German fighters. Under attack, the Sopwith took fire and both men jumped. Bennie was survived by family at Chatham, Ont., including 8-year-old sister, Jane.