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Adjutant Laurent POCHART


Biography

Source (Photos and documents) : Mrs Monique BEUZIT-POCHART, Daughter of Adjutant Laurent POCHART

Laurent POCHART was born on 04 November 1912 in Saint-Pierre Quilbignon (29 - Finistère).

Laurent Pochart, on a pilot's scholarship, obtained his pilot's licence in September 1931. He is incorporated in December of the same year and is assigned to the 2eme G.A.O. before joining the 31e Escadre; He is released from his military obligations with the rank of Master Corporal and will be named Reserve Sergeant.

In 1935, he resumed his service, still at 31 Wing and became an experienced Pilot able to fly day and night.
Laurent POCHART flew the French Campaign within GB I/31.

He received his first commendation for a long reconnaissance mission in enemy territory on 28 Septmebre 1939. This citation included the award of the War Cross with Bronze Star.

In March 1940, he left the front lines to train young student pilots.

But on 14 May 1940, he was the victim of an accident while on a low altitude training flight aboard the Lioré-Olivier LéO 4 No111. The crew was killed:

- Adjutant Laurent POCHART : Pilot
- Lieutenant Pierre GILLET : Chief of Board
- Adjutant Robert DOIDEAU : Observer
- Staff-Sergeant André DEGUIL : Machine-Gunner

Warrant Officer POCHART will be cited posthumously following this tragic accident.