Harold Leslie North | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Nickname(s) | Knockers |
| Born | 31 October 1919 Dunedin, New Zealand |
| Died | 1 May 1942 (aged 22) France |
| Allegiance | New Zealand |
| Service | Royal Air Force (1938–1942) |
| Rank | Flight Lieutenant |
| Service number | 41608 |
| Unit | No. 43 Squadron No. 96 Squadron No. 457 Squadron |
| Battles / wars |
|
| Awards | Distinguished Flying Cross |
Harold Leslie North, DFC (31 October 1919 – 1 May 1942) was a New Zealand flying ace of the Royal Air Force (RAF) during the Second World War. He was officially credited with the destruction of at least five German aircraft although postwar research indicates some uncertainty regarding his tally.
Born in Dunedin, North joined the RAF in 1938 and was posted to No. 43 Squadron. During the Second World War he flew Hawker Hurricane fighters extensively during the Battle of Britain, claiming a number of aerial victories. The following year, he was promoted to flight lieutenant and participated in several operations on the Channel Front with No. 457 Squadron, flying the Supermarine Spitfire. He flew a sortie to France on 1 May 1942 and was last seen in a dogfight with German fighters. Presumed killed in action, he was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.