Didier Masson

Didier Masson (23 February 1886 – 2 June 1950) was a pioneering French aviator. He was born in Asnières, France. He died and was buried in Mérida, Yucatan, Mexico. Among his adventures was his life as a pioneering barnstormer, being the second flier in history to bomb a surface warship, as well as combat service in the Lafayette Escadrille with Edwin C. Parsons and Charles Nungesser. In one of the more unusual aerial victories of history, Masson shot down an enemy plane after his own plane's motor quit running. Later in life, he was a manager for pioneer Pan American World Airways, as well as a French consular officer.

Didier Masson
Born 23 February 1886
Asnières, France
Died 2 June 1950
Merida, Yucatan, Mexico
Allegiance France/United States
Service/branch Infantry; aviation
Rank Adjutant
Unit 129eme Regiment d'Infanterie, 36eme Regiment d'Infanterie, Escadrille 18, Escadrille 16, Lafayette Escadrille

Read more about Didier Masson:  Early Life and Flying Career, Pioneering Barnstormer, Mercenary, World War I Service, Post World War I, Death