Every day, numerous residents of Calgary commute on McKnight Boulevard, a significant east-west route in the northern part of the city. However, many may not be aware that the boulevard is named in honor of William McKnight, a distinguished Canadian aviator who served as a flying ace with the Royal Air Force during World War II.
William McKnight, born in Edmonton in 1918, spent his formative years in Calgary, growing up in the Crescent Heights neighborhood. He joined the British Royal Air Force through a short-service commission as part of a predominantly Canadian unit formed before the establishment of a Royal Canadian Air Force presence.
Local historian Shelly McElroy highlighted McKnight’s exceptional abilities during the conflict, describing him as a highly dedicated and elite pilot. McElroy, who is currently writing a book about McKnight, uncovered his story incidentally while discussing Calgary Stampeder football players who had served in the war.
According to the Royal Canadian Air Force, McKnight achieved 17 victories against German aircraft, making him Canada’s most successful ace during the Battle of Britain. To qualify as a flying ace in World War II, pilots needed to down five or more enemy aircraft.
McKnight’s notable achievements include shooting down 10 planes over Dunkirk and scoring six victories in just four days. His exceptional flying skills earned him praise from his commanding officer, Douglas Bader, a renowned pilot who flew with artificial legs.
Tragically, McKnight went missing on January 12, 1941, when his Hurricane aircraft disappeared during a mission over the English Channel. His fate remains unknown, and he was only 23 years old at the time of his disappearance.
Bader, who later visited Calgary, credited Canadians for his wartime success and advocated for the naming of a road leading to the airport in McKnight’s honor. McElroy is scheduled to deliver a presentation on McKnight’s life at the Central Public Library on November 18.
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