Steele, Norman Leslie (Second Lieutenant, b.c.1895 - d.1917)

Collection relating to the First World War service of 240 Second Lieutenant Normal Leslie Steele, Australian Flying Corps, 1917.

Folder 1:
Consists of 4 letters spanning the period 20 February to 14 July 1917.
The first 2 letters, dated 20 February (1917?) and 19 March 1917 discuss general affairs, such as training and flights taken over enemy lines. The 19 March letter, however, describes an incident, likely the same one in which Captain Sir Ross Macpherson Smith received his Military Cross, describing the rescuing of a downed pilot from behind enemy lines. The third letter is written to 'Teddy', from 'King', dated 14 April 1917. The letter discusses 2Lt Steele being shot down and a grave that was found near his plane after the area was re-taken by Allied soldiers. The final letter is addressed to 'All Dear Sports', and has an illegible signature. The letter appears to be written by someone who was behind enemy lines, as it discusses 2Lt Steele being shot down and his exact date of death. The remainder of the letter reveals that English is the author's second language, and requests the addressee remain in contact.

Folder 2:
Consists of one tan-coloured 'Army Book 425 / Pilot's Flying Log Book', with 2Lt Steele's name, rank and unit handwritten on the cover. The entries span the period 21 February to 8 April 1917 and all relate to flights in the Middle East, largely in Egypt, while flying variants of a Royal Aircraft Factory BE2. This includes one flight with Captain Sir Ross Macpherson Smith, KBC, MC & Bar, AFC on 5 March 1917.