Cobham’s First World War

On 14 August 1914, Alan Cobham joined the Royal Army Veterinary Corps to serve in the First World War.

Private Cobham’s experience with horses earned him a promotion to the rank of Veterinary Sergeant. At times, this position gave him responsibility over 1500 horses at an extraordinarily young age.

However, Cobham marvelled at the development of aeroplanes during the war and believed that this was only the beginning. Wishing to be part of this ground-breaking area, he joined the Royal Flying Corps.

On 9 August 1918, Cobham became a Second Lieutenant in the newly formed Royal Air Force.

Alan Cobham on leave while in the Royal Flying Corps in 1918