William Leefe Robinson VC and the First Blitz

Published on 12 January 2022
Submitted by David Marks

William Leefe Robinson was a modest young man who became an overnight sensation for shooting down the first airship over London on the night of 2/3 September 1916. While the bombs fell from the 'zepps', Lt Robinson took off in his biplane and tailed the airship - strafing it with his machine guns. After two passes, he concentrated his fire in one spot - the hole he made turned ignited and turned the airship into a fireball.

His feat paved the way for the eventual defeat of the Zeppelin as a strategic bombing weapon. The talk tells the story of the 'First Blitz' and the life and times of a gallant pilot who is still remembered today.

William Leefe Robinson VC and the First Blitz
Key benefits of membership

Becoming a member of The Western Front Association (WFA) offers a wealth of resources and opportunities for those passionate about the history of the First World War. Here's just three of the benefits we offer:

Local Branch Icon
Your local WFA branch

With around 50 branches, there may be one near you. The branch meetings are open to all.

Trenchmaper Icon
TrenchMapper

Utilise this tool to overlay historical trench maps with modern maps, enhancing battlefield research and exploration.

Standto Icon
Stand To!

Receive four issues annually of this prestigious journal, featuring deeply researched articles, book reviews and historical analysis.

Other Articles

02 Worcestershire Regiment Officers
13 January 2026

From Birkenhead to Bazentin

Read more
Square 25
11 January 2026

1000 Yards, 1000 Bodies - WW1 In A Single Field

Read more
The Rush To Arms In 1914
5 January 2026

The Rush to Arms in 1914

Read more
Asylum Cemetery Ypres IWM
29 December 2025

The ‘disappeared’ cemeteries

Read more
James Marshall VC
22 December 2025

The Making of a Hero: James Neville Marshall VC

Read more